AJ Francis (Top Dolla): From NFL to Wrestling Stardom

Professional wrestling has always been home to extraordinary journeys and charismatic personalities. Few embody this better than Anthony "AJ" Francis, popularly known as "Top Dolla." Francis’ unique path from the NFL gridiron to the squared circle has captivated audiences, making him one of wrestling’s compelling modern figures.

The NFL Roots

Born in Washington D.C., Francis initially made his name in football. He played collegiate football at Maryland before stepping into the NFL, where he had stints with teams like the Miami Dolphins, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Redskins, and New York Giants. His NFL tenure was marked by resilience, and he demonstrated humility by working as an Uber driver during off-seasons—a detail that made him relatable to fans.

WWE: The Birth of Top Dolla

Francis transitioned into wrestling when he signed with WWE in early 2020. Debuting in NXT in May 2021, Francis quickly made his mark with his vibrant charisma and commanding presence. He became a core member of the hip-hop-inspired stable "Hit Row," alongside Isaiah "Swerve" Scott, Ashante "Thee" Adonis, and B-Fab. The group brought fresh energy, style, and diversity to WWE programming.
Despite their popularity and successful move to WWE’s SmackDown roster, the group's momentum was abruptly halted due to a mass talent release in 2021. Top Dolla's WWE run included brief highlights, like their prominent rivalry with The Usos, but creative inconsistency prevented him from reaching the heights many fans anticipated.

Reinventing Himself in TNA

After leaving WWE, Francis found renewed purpose and greater creative freedom with TNA Impact Wrestling in 2024. His TNA debut at Hard to Kill immediately set a new tone. Forming the faction "First Class" alongside Rich Swann, Francis rapidly climbed the ranks. By mid-2024, he became the TNA Digital Media Champion and revived the dormant Canadian International Heavyweight Championship, cementing himself as a legitimate wrestling star.
His in-ring ability, combined with charismatic promos and a believable persona, pushed him further into the main event picture. Despite falling short in a title match against Nic Nemeth (formerly Dolph Ziggler), the event marked a pivotal moment in his career—Francis had finally arrived as a genuine main-event talent.

Wrestling Style and Persona

Francis is not just a physically imposing athlete at 6'5" and 330 lbs, but also a charismatic entertainer whose personality resonates with audiences. His wrestling style blends raw power with surprising agility, making him both compelling and versatile inside the ring. Moves such as the chokeslam, the spear ("TNFL"), and the fireman’s carry neckbreaker showcase his athletic prowess honed through his football career.

Future Prospects

As Francis continues to excel in TNA, the future looks bright. A possible TNA World Championship run seems imminent, especially given his strong booking and fan reception. Beyond championship gold, the wrestling landscape could see Francis engaged in intriguing cross-promotional storylines, especially given his recent appearances in WWE’s NXT.
Moreover, Francis’s charisma and mainstream appeal position him perfectly for roles outside wrestling, potentially in media, hosting, or acting. His hosting experience with WWE’s "Most Wanted Treasures" could translate into broader entertainment opportunities, expanding his brand even further.

AJ Francis’s journey exemplifies perseverance, adaptability, and authentic charisma. From undrafted NFL player to beloved wrestling persona, his path has been extraordinary and inspiring. His current trajectory in TNA points toward even greater heights, and wrestling fans can eagerly anticipate watching Top Dolla’s continued rise in and out of the ring.
As wrestling continues evolving, one thing remains clear:

AJ Francis is set to be a cornerstone of the industry, captivating fans and cementing his legacy.