On 25 August episode of "Impact Wrestling", Galloway faced Ethan Carter III in a losing effort for a world title shot against Lashley at Bound for Glory. After the match, he attacked the special guest referee Aron Rex, turning heel in the process. Galloway and Rex would later feud with each other, with both men joined the qualifying tournament for the inaugural Impact Grand Championship. After defeating Braxton Sutter in the quarterfinals and Eddie Edwards (via split decision) in the semi-finals, he was scheduled to face Rex in the finals at Bound for Glory to crown the first Grand Champion, but due to an injury he was replaced by Edwards. On 8 December episode of "Impact Wrestling", Galloway made his return by interrupting the Impact Grand Champion Moose and criticising the company. On 19 January 2017, Galloway made his in-ring return to TNA, defeating Moose to win the Impact Grand Championship. Galloway would retain the title three times, defeating Moose in a rematch at Genesis, Mahabali Shera on 9 February episode of "Impact Wrestling", and Rob Ryzin before losing the championship back to Moose via split decision in a second rematch on 2 March episode of "Impact Wrestling".