Akira, the ring name of American wrestler Alexander James Atkisson and a former Major League Wrestling champion, was identified this week as the alleged victim in accusations of abuse against his former partner, Masha Slamovich. A friend of Akira posted a Dropbox link on X containing more than 100 screenshots and photos that purported to show messages and images of bruising, described as evidence of emotional, mental and physical abuse.
The allegations quickly drew a response. TNA Wrestling confirmed it had launched an internal investigation, saying it takes such matters seriously. Slamovich issued a statement acknowledging the relationship was “toxic and mutually destructive.” She admitted that both partners hurt each other, expressed shame for her role, and said she has sought help. She added that it would be her only public comment.
Promotions have since removed Slamovich from upcoming shows. Her scheduled TNA “Victory Road” pay-per-view match on Sept. 26, 2025, against Ash By Elegance was pulled. While the allegations and investigation were the immediate trigger, reports also noted other factors — Slamovich’s contract was nearing expiration, she was not booked to win the match, and she had not been included in plans for a TNA–NXT invasion storyline.
The Victory Road card shifted even further when Ash By Elegance took the microphone during the event to announce she was stepping away from in-ring competition and relinquishing the TNA Knockouts World Championship. She said she was “no longer able to compete” and described the decision as the result of life throwing her a “curveball.” The announcement fueled speculation that she was retiring, though she did not confirm that outright.
Friends of Akira have also spoken out. One longtime associate, Jim Deacon, accused Slamovich of minimizing her behavior and said he had witnessed verbal abuse during the relationship.
No law-enforcement agency has announced a criminal case. The wrestling industry is awaiting the outcome of TNA’s inquiry and further decisions from independent promotions regarding Slamovich’s future.
Sources
Sports Illustrated — Masha Slamovich Issues Statement In Response To Abuse Allegations
Vice — TNA’s Masha Slamovich Releases Statement Following Abuse Accusations
Cageside Seats — TNA Investigating Domestic Violence Accusation Against Former Knockouts Champ
Cageside Seats — Masha Slamovich Issues Statement on Domestic Abuse Allegations
Cageside Seats — Masha Slamovich Match Off TNA Special, Replaced With Ash By Elegance Announcement
Ringside News — Masha Slamovich Accused of Lying by Akira’s Friend Amid Abuse Allegations
Diva Dirt — Masha Slamovich Removed From Victory Road Event Amid Internal Investigation
Wrestling Inc. — Ash By Elegance Vacates TNA Knockouts World Title, Steps Away From In-Ring Competition
TWNP News — Ash By Elegance Retiring?