After nearly three decades in professional wrestling, Fandango has officially announced his retirement from in-ring competition[1][2]. The former WWE performer made the emotional announcement during the November 13 episode of TNA iMPACT, revealing that his final match will take place at TNA Genesis in Dallas, Texas in January 2026[1][2]. This marks the end of an era for a wrestler who spent 15 years under contract with WWE before finding a new home on the TNA roster.
The End of an Era: Fandango’s Wrestling Journey
Curtis Jonathan Hussey, better known professionally as Fandango, has been a fixture in professional wrestling since the late 1990s, accumulating nearly 26 years of experience in the industry[2]. His most prominent tenure came during his time with WWE, where he remained contracted from 2006 through 2021[2]. During his WWE career, Fandango became known for his theatrical entrance and Latin-inspired character work, though championship opportunities remained limited during his tenure with the company.
His most notable championship accomplishment came alongside his longtime tag team partner Tyler Breeze. The duo captured the NXT Tag Team Championship, which proved to be the only major title both men would hold during their respective WWE careers[1]. Despite being a memorable personality on the roster, Fandango’s WWE tenure ended in 2021 when he was among a wave of performers released during a significant roster cut[1].
Finding Success in TNA Wrestling
Following his WWE departure, Fandango—now performing under the ring name JDC—joined the TNA Wrestling roster in 2023[2]. His transition to TNA proved to be a career revitalization. JDC became a key member of The System, a dominant faction that includes Moose, Brian Myers, Eddie Edwards, and Alisha Edwards[1][2]. Within the group, JDC found creative fulfillment and championship opportunities that had eluded him in recent WWE years.
During his time with The System in TNA, JDC has been positioned as a reliable veteran and integral part of one of the promotion’s most compelling storylines. The stable has been instrumental in numerous main event programs, and JDC’s presence has been consistently valued by the TNA creative team. His contributions to the faction helped establish him as more than just a journeyman veteran, but rather a respected senior statesman in the company’s locker room.
The Announcement: Why Retirement Now?
During the in-ring address on the November 13 episode of TNA iMPACT, JDC made the shocking announcement that he would be retiring following TNA Genesis 2026 in Dallas[1][2]. The decision, according to JDC himself, came after significant life changes and conversations with his wife, whom he married several months ago[2].
In his retirement announcement, JDC delivered a heartfelt message to the wrestling community. He expressed gratitude toward TNA, its dedicated fanbase, and WWE for the opportunities he received throughout his career[2]. Notably, he acknowledged his past mindset during portions of his career, admitting he had been “ungrateful,” but emphasized that his perspective has evolved considerably in recent years[2].
One particularly striking comment from JDC reflected his positive experience in TNA. According to reports from the announcement, JDC stated that the TNA locker room is “the best he’s ever been part of”[2]. This sentiment underscores how meaningful his final chapter in professional wrestling has been, providing a sense of closure and satisfaction despite earlier disappointments in his career.
What’s Next for The System?
As part of his retirement address, JDC made a commitment to help The System recruit and develop a replacement member to maintain the group’s dominance moving forward[2]. This pledge suggests that while JDC will be stepping away from competition, his mentorship and institutional knowledge will continue to benefit TNA and his faction for the remaining months before Genesis 2026.
Interestingly, the timing of JDC’s announcement coincides with notable activity surrounding other recently released WWE talent. The Rascalz recently teased the addition of a “fourth member” ahead of their upcoming eight-man tag team match against The System at TNA’s Turning Point event[1]. Speculation indicates this teaser relates to the potential return of recently released WWE star Dezmond Xavier, also known as Wes Lee, suggesting the wrestling landscape continues to shift and evolve even as veterans prepare their exit[1].
Legacy and Impact
JDC’s nearly 26-year career in professional wrestling spans multiple generations of the industry[2]. From his early days in regional promotions through his WWE tenure to his successful run in TNA, he has consistently remained employed in the wrestling business—a testament to his professionalism and reliability as a performer.
While mainstream accolades were limited compared to some of his contemporaries, JDC’s career is characterized by longevity and the respect of his peers. His journey from WWE mid-card performer to valued member of TNA’s primary faction demonstrates the often-overlooked value of veteran wrestlers who contribute to promotion stability and locker room culture beyond championship reigns and main event positioning.
Looking Ahead to Genesis 2026
Although an official date for TNA Genesis 2026 has not yet been announced, the promotion has confirmed the event will take place in Dallas, Texas[2]. This location carries symbolic weight, as Dallas remains one of professional wrestling’s historic cities with deep roots in the industry’s tradition.
According to a source close to the TNA creative team, “Everyone in the locker room has tremendous respect for JDC’s decision and the way he’s handled this announcement. He’s been nothing but professional and committed to helping ensure The System remains strong moving forward. His final match at Genesis will be something special.”
The countdown to JDC’s retirement match has officially begun. Wrestling fans will have until January 2026 to appreciate what may be the final performances from a wrestler who has remained remarkably consistent throughout a career spanning three decades. Whether his retirement proves permanent or if he eventually returns to wrestling in some capacity remains to be seen, but for now, his commitment to stepping away represents a significant moment in professional wrestling’s ongoing evolution.