Press Release Impact Wrestling
Chris Sabin, one of the most decorated stars in IMPACT Wrestling history, celebrates the 20th anniversary of his first-ever match in company history.
On April 9, 2003, Sabin teamed with Johnny Storm for a multi-team match – against Jerry Lynn and Amazing Red, Jason Cross and Shark Boy, and Triple X.
Sabin admits, decades later, that the match was “surreal,” and he was “nervous, yet excited.”
Chris Sabin Comments:
“When I reflect on starting with TNA/IMPACT 20 years ago, it brings gratitude,”
“This company has allowed me to make a living pursuing my passion and for many years has given me a platform for self-expression. This company has believed in me enough to always want me around, and though there were a few years between 2014-2019 I explored pro wrestling (in) other places, I was able to return home and continue the journey. “
Sabin states his Love for the company:
“I’m very proud of my time with TNA/IMPACT, as it has given me an opportunity to inspire others. Hearing and seeing how I have influenced other wrestlers throughout the years I see as a gift.”
No one can argue that Sabin has a huge impact on this upcoming generational talent.
Sabin said his memories from year one include road-tripping from Detroit to Nashville with Scott D’Amore and Zach Gowen for his first match and, naturally, winning the X Division Championship for the first time. (May 14, 2023)
“With it being my third match with TNA, I remember feeling pressure to step up and prove to the company that I was deserving of such an accomplishment,”
Sabin also spotlighted early matches against Frankie Kazarian, winning the Super X Cup in 2003 and participating in his first-ever Ultimate X match on August 20, 2003.
“Winning the X Division Championship more times than anyone in history contributes to my unique legacy,” Sabin said. “There’s no doubt the X Division changed wrestling forever. To be remembered as one of the greatest champions is an honor.”
On July 18, 2013, he left the arena as the World Champion after defeating Bully Ray.
Sabin Comments on the memory:
“The moment of the 1-2-3 and the sound of the crowd as I defeated Bully Ray for the World Championship is a cherished memory and something I will never forget. The reaction felt genuine,”
Sabin would comment on the formation of Motor City Machine Guns in 2006 atZERO-1 MAX in Japan:
“I think what makes the Motor City Machine Guns so successful is not only our shared passion for wrestling but our ability to work as one. Our teamwork is unmatched,”
What is next for the Motor City Machine Gun?:
“I just want to continue to create an unforgettable legacy for Chris Sabin and the Motor City Machine Guns, while at the same time giving back to the business that has given me so much,”
“It would be impossible for me to pick one all-time favorite match throughout my time at IMPACT Wrestling. If I wanted to show someone who wasn’t a hardcore wrestling fan a series of matches that would be a good representation of my work in IMPACT, it would be the Motor City Machine Guns’ first tag title win along with the proceeding best-of-5 series against Beer Money.”
You can catch the Best of Chris Sabin on Impact Plus:
Staff Favorites on the list include:
Turning Point 2010
Slammiversary 2013
Bound for Glory 2006
Hail Sabin!
