Mike Santana has elaborated on his decision to depart TNA following his arrival on WWE NXT as an official member of the roster.
On the July 22 broadcast, Santana confronted NXT Champion Tony D’Angelo to confirm that he had left TNA and that he was coming for the top champion on the brand. Winning the World Title twice in TNA, Santana left the promotion shortly after Slammiversary, where he dropped the championship to Nic Nemeth.
Speaking on Busted Open After Dark, Santana opened up about the decision to leave TNA:
“It wasn’t an easy decision. They’ve done so much for me in my career, and loyalty is a big thing for me. Loyalty is everything. During my time there, the company and I grew together. One thing we’re always taught is you do good business, and you always leave a place better than what you found it. I felt like I did exactly that. TNA was somewhere where I felt comfortable. I didn’t want to feel comfortable anymore. I love that place. Genuine love for TNA. That locker room is a special place. I’m very goal-oriented, and I’m trying to grow as much as possible. This is a very nomadic sport. You have to move around. It’s been done since the beginning of time. I’m gonna do what I have to do. I’m going to keep growing. I want to make sure my daughter is set for life and she never has a worry a day in her life. I’m so thankful I’ve been able to do this at a high level for so long and still be a present father,” he said.
Mike Santana Competing Under New Name In WWE
During his official debut as a member of the WWE roster, commentary would not refer to Santana by name. As has been the case with the likes of Blake Monroe [Mariah May] and Ricky Saints [Ricky Starks], this meant that a name change was underway for the former TNA star.
Following his arrival in NXT, fans saw that WWE had filed a trademark for the name Cruz Montana. Many believed that this would be Santana’s new name moving forward, which the former TNA World Champion confirmed was the case. On social media, Santana explained the meaning behind his new WWE name:
“CRUZ MONTANA. A name I put together as a tribute to honor my late father. Who I’ve always made sure to keep as close as possible to my journey. Losing him 6 years ago, is what sent me on the spiral that I’d eventually rise from, to become the man you see today. And today, that man ADDICTED TO GREATNESS. Here’s to this next chapter,”
Montana made another appearance on the July 29 NXT, but was mocked by Grayson Waller after stating his ambitions to go after the title.
Featured image: WWE
