Deonna Purrazzo, recognized as one of the most successful Knockouts in TNA Wrestling history, made the significant decision to part ways with the company at the conclusion of 2023.
In a recent appearance on INSIGHT with Chris Van Vliet, Purrazzo elaborated on her departure from TNA Wrestling. Expressing a sense of closure, she stated that her decision was rooted in the feeling of having accomplished everything within the organization.
“I just felt at the end of last year I kind of had done everything,” Deonna Purrazzo stated. “I had been a three-time Knockouts World Champion, a Knockouts World Tag Team Champion. And I had carried the brand and earned the title of Reina de Reinas champion in Mexico with AAA. My journey there was fulfilling, but it was time for something new.”
She highlighted her impressive résumé, mentioning her experience in various promotions, saying, “I had went to Ring of Honor, I had main evented AEW Dynamite representing Impact Wrestling. Like, what else was there for me to do here that would continuously elevate my career? I’ve worked with everybody in the locker room. I’m comfortable here. It’s time now to get out of my comfort zone.”
Purrazzo says she got comfortable in TNA
During the same interview, Deonna Purrazzo reflected on the transition to AEW, recognizing that it would require her to adapt to a completely new environment and system. She firmly believes that there’s still a great deal she wants to achieve, and she now feels re-energized and authentic in her wrestling persona.
“I had been comfortable at TNA for so long; I knew the system, I knew the people, I knew the position I was in. I was on top there, so there was more leeway for me to give my opinions or pitch ideas coming into AEW. You kind of need to earn those rights all over again. So I think, yes, there’s still so much left for me to do.”
Further elaborating on her journey, she expressed a renewed sense of self-confidence, stating, “I feel like I’m just now feeling like myself again. Feeling like, okay, this is The Virtuosa. I’ve been there nine and a half months now. That first stretch, it was like I don’t know what I’m doing or who I am. I’m working a brand new system with television and times, and I felt really thrown off initially. So I feel like now I’m finally getting in a groove that will propel me.”
What do you make of Deonna Purrazzo’s comments? Do you think she had anything left to accomplish in TNA Wrestling? Let us know your thoughts by sounding off in the comments section below.
The post Deonna Purrazzo Explains Her Decision To Leave TNA Wrestling appeared first on Wrestlezone.
Editor: Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Deonna Purrazzo, a prominent figure in the wrestling world, who recently announced her departure from TNA Wrestling. Deonna, welcome, and thank you for joining us.
Deonna Purrazzo: Thanks for having me! I’m excited to chat.
Editor: You made quite a splash with your announcement of leaving TNA. Can you share with us what led to your decision?
Deonna Purrazzo: Absolutely. I felt a sense of closure at the end of last year. I had achieved so much — three-time Knockouts World Champion, Knockouts World Tag Team Champion, and even the Reina de Reinas champion in Mexico with AAA. It was such a fulfilling journey, but I think it was time for something new.
Editor: That’s understandable. You also mentioned feeling comfortable in TNA. Can you elaborate on that?
Deonna Purrazzo: Sure! While comfort can be great, it can also be limiting. I’ve main-evented AEW Dynamite representing Impact Wrestling and worked with so many talented individuals in the locker room. I realized I had done everything I could there, and it was time for me to step outside my comfort zone and tackle new challenges.
Editor: So, with that in mind, what are you looking forward to in your future endeavors, especially with your transition to AEW?
Deonna Purrazzo: The transition will definitely require some adaptation. AEW offers a fresh landscape, new faces, and different styles. I’m eager to embrace those adjustments and continue to grow as a performer. I believe it’s essential for my career to evolve, and I can’t wait to see what’s next!
Editor: It sounds like an exciting new chapter for you, Deonna. Thank you for sharing your insights with us today, and we can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next!
Deonna Purrazzo: Thank you! I appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts.
Editor: That’s quite an impressive résumé! It sounds like you reached a point where you felt you had done it all. What made you realize it was time for something new?
Deonna Purrazzo: Exactly. I had been in TNA for quite a while and had worked with everyone in the locker room. I became comfortable knowing the system and people around me, which is great, but it also made me feel like I wasn’t pushing my boundaries anymore. It was time to challenge myself and explore new opportunities.
Editor: You mentioned transitioning to AEW. How do you feel that different environment will impact your career?
Deonna Purrazzo: Transitioning to AEW is definitely going to be a challenge. I’ll have to earn my place all over again and adapt to a different system. But I believe it’s essential for my growth. It excites me to step out of my comfort zone and see what else I can achieve—there’s still so much I want to do.
Editor: I can imagine it must feel invigorating! You also mentioned feeling a bit lost at the start. Can you elaborate on how you’re finding your footing again?
Deonna Purrazzo: Absolutely. That initial period was difficult; I felt displaced in a new environment. But now, I finally feel like myself again. I’m discovering The Virtuosa anew, tailoring my approach in a way that feels authentic to me. It’s all about finding that groove, and I feel it coming together.
Editor: It sounds like a thrilling journey ahead! With everything you’ve accomplished and the new challenges you’re embracing, what goals do you hope to achieve moving forward?
Deonna Purrazzo: My main goal is to continue to elevate my career, tell compelling stories, and connect with fans in ways I haven’t before. I want to push myself further, whether that’s competing for championships or working with new talent. There’s so much potential in this next chapter.
Editor: We’re looking forward to seeing what comes next for you, Deonna. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us today!
Deonna Purrazzo: Thank you! I appreciate the support and the opportunity to chat.
