Sami Callihan Explained

Birthname:Samuel Alton Johnston
Names:Jeremiah Crane
Jeremiah Snake
Sami Callihan
Callihan
Solomon Crowe
Height:5ft 9in[1]
Weight:210 lb
Birth Date:1987 9, mf=yes
Birth Place:Bellefontaine, Ohio, U.S.
Spouse:Jessicka Havok (engaged)
Billed:Dayton, Ohio
Trainer:One Man Kru
Shark Boy
Cody Hawk
Debut:2005

Samuel Alton Johnston[2] (born September 1, 1987),[3] better known by the ring name Sami Callihan, is an American professional wrestler and promoter. He is currently signed to Major League Wrestling (MLW) and Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), where he is a former Impact World Champion.[4] He previously wrestled for Lucha Underground under the ring names Jeremiah Crane, and later, Jeremiah Snake, and on the independent circuit.

He has worked for several independent promotions throughout the United States. He found most success in Combat Zone Wrestling (CZW) and Major League Wrestling (MLW), but has also wrestled for Dragon Gate USA, Evolve, Ring of Honor, Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, Full Impact Pro, and All American Wrestling. In CZW, he held the CZW Iron Man Championship, the CZW Ultraviolent Underground Championship, and the CZW World Junior Heavyweight Championship, and won the 2012 Best of the Best tournament. He also worked for WWE from 2013 to 2015, appearing in NXT under the ring name Solomon Crowe.[5] He also runs an independent wrestling promotion called The Wrestling Revolver.

Professional wrestling career

Independent circuit (2006–2013)

Shortly after his debut, Callihan became a member of "The Crew" faction, which also consisted of Jon Moxley, Dick Rick and Pepper Parks. Callihan began regularly competing for the Heartland Wrestling Association, and faced wrestlers including Chad Collyer and Nigel McGuinness. He competed in Chikara's 2008 Young Lions Tournament but did not win the tournament. He advanced to the finals of the 2008 Ted Petty Invitational tournament with victories over Chris Hero, Eddie Kingston and 2 Cold Scorpio.[6] On September 28, 2008, he competed for the HWA Heavyweight Championship in a three-way match, also involving Drake Younger, but lost to Jake Crist.[6] On November 26, 2008, he was eliminated by HWA Heavyweight Champion Jake Crist in the Thanksgiving Eve eight-man tag team elimination match.[6] In a rematch on October 1, 2008, he was again defeated by Jake Crist.[6] In 2011, Callihan made it to the final of the first Heartland Cup tournament against Jake Crist.

Callihan began wrestling for IPW throughout 2006 as "Cannonball Sami" until late 2006 when he underwent a name change to Sami Callihan.[7] In 2007 at IPW Reign Of The Insane 6th Anniversary Show Callihan gained entry into the IPW 2007 Super Junior Heavyweight tournament beating Dustin Rayz, xOMGx, and Louis Linaris to qualify, but lost in the first round to Diehard.[8] In 2008 at Uprising Callihan began feuding with IPW Junior Heavyweight Champion Billy Roc after a controversial double pin in a four-way match for the title, also involving Ricochet and Shiima Xion.[9] The next month at Legally Insane Callihan and Roc teamed up in a losing effort against "The Messiahs of a New Age" of Dustin Rayz and Lou Roberts. Callihan and Roc would have their first singles match for the Junior Heavyweight Championship at Heatstroke which ended in a time limit draw.[9] The next month at Crowning Point Callihan and Roc wrestled in a Pure Rules match, which ended in a no contest, and the pair faced off at IPW Reign of the Insane 7th Anniversary in a ladder match in which Callihan beat Roc for the IPW Junior Heavyweight Championship.[9] The next month at the IPW Super Junior Heavyweight Tournament Callihan defeated Q Skillz, CJ Otis, and Justin Andrews en route to the final, where he lost the Junior Heavyweight Championship to Aaron Williams.[9] Callihan would not make another appearance for IPW until late 2009 at Reign of the Insane Stage 2 8th Anniversary losing to James Avery.[10] On May 18, 2010, he defeated Toby Klein at the JC Bailey benefit show.[11] Callihan returned to competing regularly for IPW in 2011. At IPW Showdown In Naptown Callihan defeated Kyle O'Reilly, and later that night formed an alliance with IPW World Heavyweight Champion Jimmy Jacobs by saving him from an attack by Dustin Rayz and Sweet Lou Roberts.[12] On May 7, 2011, at Keep the Faith Callihan would wrestle in a four-way match also involving Jake Crist, AR Fox, and Zack Sabre Jr. with Fox winning the match.[12] On June 18 at Revelations Callihan defeated Jake Crist for the vacant IPW World Heavyweight Championship.[12] Callihan held the championship until November 7, 2011, at Insane Intentions, when he lost it to Jake Crist in a triple threat match that also involved B. J. Whitmer.[12]

On May 29, 2009, Callihan debuted for Pro Wrestling Syndicate at their Brawl For Paul event, where he lost a four-way match, also involving Xavier, Monsta Mack, and winner Trent Acid. On August 10, 2010, Callihan was part of The PWS Majestic Twelve Title Tournament. In the opening round he teamed with Dan Maff to defeat Adam Cole and Bandido Jr, and went on to defeat Maff in the second. In the final Callihan pinned Danny Demanto, but was then pinned by Devon Moore. On May 27, 2011, Callihan defeated Dan Maff, and then defeated Devon Moore to win the PWS Heavyweight Championship in a match that included run-ins by Kevin Matthews, Maff, Danny Demanto, Velvet Sky, and Mick Foley. He went to defend the championship against Colt Cabana, Jay Lethal, and The Great Muta.

Ring of Honor (2008–2009)

On November 11, 2008, Callihan made his Ring of Honor debut at Escalation in a losing effort in a four-corner survival match also involving Go Shiozaki, Rhett Titus, and Grizzly Redwood.[13] Callihan appeared on the inaugural episode of Ring of Honor Wrestling on HDNet, which aired on March 21, losing to Kenny King.[14]

Combat Zone Wrestling (2008–2013; 2015–2018)

Callihan made his CZW debut at "Summer School" on June 14, 2008. At the 2008 Chri$ Ca$h Memorial Show, he won the Chri$ Ca$h Memorial Battle Royal. He defeated LuFisto to earn a spot in the main event at Cage Of Death X.[15]

At the Decade of Destruction – 10th Anniversary show on February 14, 2009, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Callihan defeated Jon Dahmer; originally the match was supposed to be Dahmer versus E.M.O., but as E.M.O. was making his way to the ring, the Arena's video screens showed Callihan arguing with CZW management and demanding a title match. Management denied his request, and instead told him that if he defeated Dahmer he could have a title match whenever he wanted. This led to Callihan attacking E.M.O. and taking his spot in the match against Dahmer, which he then won after a distraction by the debuting Jon Moxley who was fleeing from security through the crowd. Later, it would be revealed that Callihan and Moxley were partners, and in that same night Callihan went to the ring after CZW Iron Man Champion Brain Damage and his Cult Fiction tag team partner Deranged had lost a match to The H8 Club. He brought a referee with him, and after Callihan threatened him, the referee sanctioned an immediate match, which Callihan won to become the new champion.[16] At the Eye for an Eye event on April 13, Callihan declared that the championship would now be known as the "CZW New Horror Championship".[15] [17] [18] On June 13, 2009, Callihan lost the championship to Egotistico Fantastico.[17] On October 25, 2009, Callihan defeated Danny Havoc to win the CZW Ultraviolent Underground Championship, but lost the title the same day to Thumbtack Jack. On April 10, 2010, at Swingin For The Fences Callihan received a match for the CZW World Heavyweight Championship in a losing effort against Switchblade Conspiracy partner Jon Moxley. In November 2011, Callihan defeated Adam Cole for the CZW World Junior Heavyweight Championship. The following April, Callihan won the Best of the Best XI tournament. He lost the title to Drake Younger at 5 de Mayo. Callihan won the title for a second time on July 14, 2012, in a 60-minute Ultraviolent Rules Iron Man match, but lost it the same day to AR Fox. In July 2017, in a behind-the-scenes promotion, Callihan was appointed the leader of CZW's creative team.[19]

On April 15, 2018, he left CZW after a disagreement with the new direction of the promotion.

Evolve (2010–2013)

On May 1, 2010, Callihan debuted for Evolve at Evolve 3: Rise or Fall in a winning effort against Adam Cole.[20] On July 23, at Evolve 4: Danielson vs Fish, Callihan gained his second victory defeating Arik Cannon via submission.[21] Matches against wrestlers including Zack Sabre Jr., Brodie Lee, AR Fox, Bobby Fish, and Dave "Fit" Finlay at Evolve 9 followed. On April 5, 2013, Callihan took part in a tournament to determine the inaugural Evolve Champion, where he made it to the finals, before losing to AR Fox.[22]

Dragon Gate USA (2010–2011)

On July 24, 2010, Callihan made his debut for Dragon Gate USA, losing to Jimmy Jacobs in a dark match.[23] After wrestling several matches for the promotion through the rest of the year, Callihan was placed in his first angle on April 3, 2011, at Open the Ultimate Gate, when he and Arik Cannon walked out on a six-way match. Later in the event, Callihan and Cannon announced they would be forming a tag team named the D.U.F. (Dirty Ugly Fucks) and defeated The Dark City Fight Club (Jon Davis and Kory Chavis) in their first match together.[24] [25] On June 5 at Enter The Dragon 2011, Callihan and Arik Cannon were joined by Pinkie Sanchez, and picked up a major win over the tag team of Open the Dream Gate Champion Masaaki Mochizuki and Susumu Yokosuka.[26]

WWE (2012–2015)

On October 23, 2012, Johnston wrestled a dark match for WWE, in which he was defeated by Johnny Curtis.[27] In April 2013, it was reported that Johnston was undergoing medical tests for the promotion, and on May 27 Dragon Gate USA confirmed that Johnston had signed with WWE.[28] [29]

On August 29, 2013, under the new WWE ring name Solomon Crowe,[30] he debuted for WWE's developmental system NXT, with a loss to Xavier Woods at a live event.[31] He would fail to appear on televised episodes of NXT for more than a year, instead being restricted to live events or dark matches during television tapings. At a live event on December 6, 2013, Crowe assumed the character of a hacker, using a tablet computer to seize control of the arena lights, and attacked Kalisto.[32] At the February 28, 2014, NXT television tapings, Crowe defeated Sylvester Lefort in what would have been his NXT television debut,[33] but the match was removed from the episode; it was supposed to air for the March 6, 2014 NXT.[34] In August 2014, Johnston suffered a chipped tibia during a tag team match with Kalisto against The Ascension; the injury did not require surgery and he was able to return to the ring in November. In late 2014, Crowe wrestled a number of dark matches on NXT, including one against the returning Brian Kendrick.[35] [36] [37]

From the January 28, 2015, episode of NXT, WWE began airing teasers for Crowe's television debut.[38] On the February 18 episode of NXT, Crowe made his television debut as a face, attacking CJ Parker.[39] In his first televised match on the March 4 episode of NXT, he defeated Bull Dempsey.[40]

On November 24, 2015, WWE announced that Johnston was released from his WWE contract.[41]

Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (2012–2013; 2015–2017)

Callihan made his debut for the Southern California-based company Pro Wrestling Guerrilla on April 21, 2012. At the sixth annual Dynamite Duumvirate Tag Team Title Tournament, he teamed with Roderick Strong to take on 2 Husky Black Guys (El Generico and Willie Mack) in a losing effort in the opening round. After the match, Callihan challenged PWG World Champion Kevin Steen to a title match, which took place later that day; Callihan lost the match. In his next appearance on July 21, he was beaten by Michael Elgin at PWG's nine-year anniversary event, Threemendous III. In September, he got his first series of wins at the 2012 Battle of Los Angeles; he defeated Willie Mack to advance to the quarterfinal round, where he beat T. J. Perkins. In the semi-final, he lost to eventual winner Adam Cole. At Mystery Vortex on December 1, he was victorious over Drake Younger. After the match, it was announced that Callihan and Younger would participate in a best of three match series to determine a number one contender for the PWG World Championship. At the 2013 Dynamite Duumvirate Tag Team Title Tournament, which took place on January 12, 2013, Callihan fought Younger in a non-tournament knockout or submission-only match. Callihan lost the bout when he tapped out, tying the score. On March 22, 2013, Callihan lost the series, when he was defeated by Younger in the third match, a Guerrilla Warfare match.[42] On June 15, Callihan wrestled his PWG farewell match, a 60-minute Iron Man match, where he unsuccessfully challenged longtime rival Adam Cole for the PWG World Championship, losing the match six falls to five.[43] [44] [45]

On December 11, 2015, Callihan returned to PWG at All Star Weekend 11, defeating Drew Gulak.[46] On January 2, 2016, at PWG Lemy, Callihan defeated Trevor Lee. He then started a losing streak being defeated by the likes of Jack Evans, Roderick Strong, Marty Scurll and Cody Rhodes at the first round of the Battle Of Los Angeles 2016.On February 18, 2017, at Only Kings Understand Each Other, Callihan returned along with the debuting OI4K (Jake & Dave Crist), being defeated by The Superkliq (Adam Cole and The Young Bucks).[47] On May 19, at PWG Head Like A Cole, Callihan would pick a victory over former rival Adam Cole.[48] The next month at Man On the Silver Mountain, Callihan defeated Matt Sydal. At the 2017 Battle of Los Angeles, Callihan was eliminated by Jeff Cobb in the first round.

New Japan Pro-Wrestling (2017)

On November 6, 2017, Callihan was announced as a participant in New Japan Pro-Wrestling's 2017 World Tag League, where he would team with Juice Robinson.[49] The team, dubbed "Death Juice",[50] finished second in their block with a record of four wins and three losses, failing to advance to the finals.[51]

Return to the independent circuit (2015–present)

On November 28, 2015, after being released from WWE, Johnston returned to the independent circuit, switching back to his Sami Callihan character where he appeared at All American Wrestling's Windy City Classic XI event.[52] He attacked new AAW Heavyweight Champion, Eddie Kingston.[53]

On December 4, 2015, he returned to Rockstar Pro Wrestling to face and defeat long time friend Jake Crist at the Killer XMas iPPV.

Callihan returned to Combat Zone Wrestling at Cage of Death XVII on December 12, 2015, defeating David Starr.[54]

On December 11, 2015, Callihan returned to Pro Wrestling Guerrilla in the first night of All-Star Weekend event, where he defeated Drew Gulak.[55]

Callihan debuted for PROGRESS Wrestling in May 2016 during the 2016 Super Strong Style 16 tournament, beating Matt Cross in the first round[56] and losing to Tommy End in the quarter finals.[57]

On May 21, 2016, Callihan defeated John Skyler to win the Premiere Wrestling Xperience World Heavyweight Championship.

On July 8, 2016, Callihan returned to Fight Club: PRO at the "Rage Against The Death Machine" event. After making it his intention to give the Fight Club: PRO Championship world title status, he later defeated Trent Seven to win the vacant championship.[58]

On June 8, 2018, Callihan defeated Evander James for House of Glory's Crown Jewel Championship at their "Temperature Rising" show. He retained the title at their "High Intensity 7" show on August 17 against Low Ki after hitting him with a low blow to intentionally get himself disqualified. After the match, Bully Ray appeared and powerbombed Callihan.[59]

On November 2, 2019, Callihan debuted for Insane Championship Wrestling with a victory over BT Gunn at Fear & Loathing XII in Glasgow, Scotland.[60] He returned to ICW to compete against the likes of Jeff Jarrett, Viper, Andy Wild, Trent Seven and Grado for a shot at the ICW World Heavyweight Championship in the 2020 Square Go! match.[61]

Lucha Underground (2016–2019)

On January 10, 2016, Callihan wrestled a dark match at a Lucha Underground taping against King Cuerno and Flamita. In March 2016, Callihan signed a deal to appear in the third season of Lucha Underground. He made his debut in a segment on the October 5, 2016, episode of Lucha Underground as Ivelisse's boyfriend Jeremiah Crane.[62] The following week, Crane attacked Marty Martinez and Mariposa following Ivelisse's match. Crane competed in Aztec Warfare III entering at number four, but was the first to be eliminated by Matanza Cueto. Crane would then compete in the Battle of the Bulls tournament, defeating AR Fox, Killshot and Mariposa in the first round.[63] In the finals of the tournament, Crane competed in an elimination fatal-4-way match, being eliminated by the eventual winner, Willie Mack. Crane made his return at Aztec Warfare IV on the first episode of season 4 in the Aztec Warfare entering at number 14 but got eliminated by pinfall by Pentagon Dark. Later that season in Episode 3 he got put in a casket by Mil Muertes after Ivelisse bloodied him. He would return on Episode 9, now under the new name of Jeremiah Snake, as a member of the Reptile Tribe, teaming with Daga, Drago, and Kobra Moon in a losing effort against Aerostar and the Worldwide Underground (Johnny Mundo, PJ Black, and Taya). In the episode, The Reptile Tribe won the Lucha Underground Trios Championship from Killshot, The Mack, and Son of Havoc. The series was discontinued after season finale, Ultima Lucha Cuatro.

Major League Wrestling (2017–2019)

On October 5, 2017, Callihan wrestled his first match for Major League Wrestling (MLW) at MLW's first show since 2004. At the event, called One Shot he lost a match to Montel Vontavious Porter.[64] He went on to a major focal point of their weekly show MLW Fusion throughout 2018 into 2019. At some point in 2018 Callihan begun working as a senior agent for Major League Wrestling.[65] In June 2019, Callihan lost a Loser Leaves MLW against Mance Warner, leaving the promotion.[66]

Impact Wrestling (2017–2023)

Ohio Versus Everything (2017–2019)

See main article: Ohio Versus Everything. On November 5, 2017, at Bound for Glory, Callihan made his debut for Impact Wrestling as a villain by interfering in a 5150 Street Fight for the World Tag Team Championship, helping Ohio Versus Everything (Dave and Jake Crist) defeat Santana and Ortiz of The Latin American Xchange (LAX) to retain the title.[67] Callihan and The Crist Brothers then formed a faction named Ohio Versus Everything (oVe), where they started a feud with LAX.[68] On the December 14 episode of Impact, Callihan would light a fire flame in the face of Konnan after a face to face summit.[69] On the January 18, 2018, episode of Impact, oVe would then challenge LAX in a Barbed Wire Massacre match, where they lost the match, thus ending the feud.[70] Callihan shortly after became the leader of oVe. Callihan made his pay-per-view debut for Impact at the Redemption event on April 22, 2018, where oVe defeated Eddie Edwards, Moose and Tommy Dreamer in a House of Hardcore match. oVe began a lengthy feud against The Lucha Brothers (Pentagón Jr. and Fénix) in the summer of 2018, which led to a mask vs. hair match between Callihan and Pentagón at Slammiversary XVI, which Callihan lost, which led to Callihan's hair being shaved off by the Lucha Brothers. Callihan and Pentagón had a rematch on the August 23 episode of Impact, a Mexican Death match, which Callihan won. The rivalry continued between the two teams with Brian Cage joining the Lucha Brothers in the feud. This led to an oVe Rules match pitting oVe against Cage and the Lucha Brothers at Bound for Glory, which oVe won when Callihan pinned Cage. This win earned Callihan, his first title shot in Impact Wrestling against Cage for the latter's X Division Championship on the November 15 episode of Impact, which Callihan lost.

In early 2019, oVe entered a feud with the team of Rich Swann, Tommy Dreamer and Willie Mack, which led to Callihan defeating Mack at the Homecoming pay-per-view but lost a rematch on the January 11 episode of Impact. Callihan would begin pursuing Swann's X Division Championship, unsuccessfully challenging him for the title on the March 22 episode of Impact and in an oVe Rules match at Rebellion. Callihan concluded his feud with Dreamer by defeating him in an oVe rules match at the Impact Plus event Code Red. Callihan began ascending up the ranks as he defeated Eddie Edwards in a Philly Street Fight at A Night You Can't Mist. Callihan would then lose to Rob Van Dam in an Extreme Rules match at Bash at the Brewery in July.

Impact World Champion (2019–2020)

In the summer of 2019, Callihan began a lengthy feud with Tessa Blanchard regarding intergender wrestling where he claimed that men were superior to women. The two had their first encounter in the main event of Slammiversary XVII, which Callihan won. The match was awarded the Match of the Year Award by Impact. Callihan and Blanchard were randomly paired in the Mashup Tournament on the July 19 episode of Impact, where they defeated Dave Crist and Trey to qualify for a fatal four-way elimination match against Eddie Edwards and Moose, Jake Crist and Wentz and Michael Elgin and Willie Mack. Callihan and Blanchard won the match to qualify for a match at the Unbreakable event, which Callihan won, becoming the #1 contender for the Impact World Championship in the process.

Subsequently, Callihan began feuding with the World Champion Brian Cage, unsuccessfully challenging him for the title at Bound for Glory. However, Callihan goaded Cage into giving him a rematch by invading Cage's house. On the October 29 episode of Impact, Callihan defeated Cage in a steel cage match to win the Impact World Championship.[71] He successfully defended the title against Cage in a rematch at Turning Point and Rich Swann at No Surrender before losing the title to rival Tessa Blanchard at Hard to Kill pay-per-view on January 12, 2020.

Various storylines (2020–2023)

During tapings of Impact, a mysterious figure appeared on the titantron called ICU during wrestlers matches. On March 17, ICU interrupted Ken Shamrock's interview with Josh Mathews. The mysterious figure threw a fireball into Shamrock's eyes. He took off the mask and it was revealed to be Sami Callihan. Callihan would take his phone and the lights would go off and he would disappear. The feud would culminate at Rebellion 2020 Night 1 in an Unsanctioned match, where Shamrock submitted Callihan to an ankle lock. He returned on June 30, 2020, surprisingly helping Shamrock against The North before disappearing into the night, teasing a face turn in the process.[72] Shamrock and Callihan unsuccessfully challenged The North for the Impact Tag Team Championships at Slammiversary.

On August 4, Callihan was about to face Eddie Edwards for the Impact World Championship, but was attacked by Rob Van Dam as he was making his way to the ring, and ultimately succumbing to Edwards. The following week, Callihan hacked into Katie Forbes' photos during her photo reveal, thus starting a feud with Van Dam and turning face for the first time in Impact Wrestling. Callihan and Van Dam would face off against each other on the September 1 episode of Impact in which Callihan was victorious, but ultimately suffered a post-match attack from Van Dam and Katie Forbes.[73] On the September 22nd episode of Impact, Callihan faced Rob Van Dam in a rematch, this time RVD was victorious and due to Van Dam winning, Katie Forbes got 5 minutes alone in the ring with Sami. However, Callihan laid out RVD outside the ring and delivered a Piledriver to Katie Forbes. The following week, Callihan turned back into a heel and interrupted Eddie Edwards before Eddie got attacked by Ken Shamrock, who also turned heel in that segment.

Beginning in mid 2021, when Impact started a working relation with All Elite Wrestling, Callihan turned face when he started feuding with Kenny Omega, The Good Brothers, and Don Callis, after they had been costing him multiple opportunities at the Impact World Championship. The feud eventually culminated to Slammiversary where Callihan and Omega wrestled for the Impact World Championship in a No Disqualification match, a match where Omega would retain in the end. On September 20, it was reported that Callihan has suffered a broken ankle and he would be out of action until the spring of 2022.[74] [75] Callihan returned at the Under Siege event, on May 7, 2022, attacking Moose.[76] [77]

Ohio Versus Everything reunion (2023)

After spending the bulk of December feuding with The Design, on the January 12, 2023, episode of Impact, Callihan decided to join The Design, having Deaner shave his head as initiation and being renamed simply as Callihan, turning heel in the process.[78] On April 16, 2023, at Rebellion, Callahan turned on The Design by hitting Deaner with a baseball bat, thus turning face again.[79] On the May 4 episode of Impact!, during a match between Callihan and Kon, The Design's "Army of Violence", who were clad in wearing yellow hoodies, attacked Callihan, causing a disqualification in his favour.[80] On May 5, it was announced that Callihan will have to choose two partners to face The Design at Under Siege in a six-man tag team match.[81] On May 15, Impact announced Rich Swann as the first of Callihan's two partners.[82] On May 26 at Under Siege, Callihan, Swann and the returning Jake Crist defeated The Design.[83] On June 9 at Against All Odds, oVe defeated The Design in an Ohio Street Fight.[84]

On September 27, it was reported that Callihan is officially done with Impact Wrestling.[85]

Return to MLW (2024–present)

On January 6, 2024 at Kings of Colosseum, Callihan made his surprise return to MLW, helping Rickey Shane Page retain the MLW National Openweight Championship against Akira and becoming a member of The Calling.[86] Callihan would feud with Akira, defeating him in a Death Machine Rules match at SuperFight.[87] Callihan and Shane Page defeated Akira and Jake Crist in a New York City Street Fight at Intimidation Games.[88] Callihan along with Shane Page, Cannonball, and Dr. Cornwallis lost to Death Fighters (Raven, Akira, Jake Crist, and Jimmy Lloyd) at War Chamber.[89]

Return to TNA (2024–present)

Callihan made his surprise return to TNA on April 20, 2024 at Rebellion, to attack Kon, Jason Hotch and John Skyler helping Jordynne Grace retain her TNA Knockouts World Champion over Steph De Lander.[90]

Personal life

On June 20, 2021, Johnston got engaged to fellow Impact wrestler Jessicka Havok (on the latter's 35th birthday).[91]

Championships and accomplishments

Luchas de Apuestas record

Winner (wager)Loser (wager)LocationEventDateNotes
Sami Callihan (hair) Pentagón Jr. (championship) Berwyn, Illinois Jim Lynam Memorial Tournament - Day 2 October 8, 2016 [116] [117]
Rey Fenix (mask) Sami Callihan (championship) Berwyn, Illinois Defining Moment 2017 August 31, 2017 [118]
Pentagón Jr. (mask) Sami Callihan (hair) Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Notes and References

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  2. Web site: Casting a Wrestling Revolution – Day 7. Katz. Jeff. August 30, 2011. September 19, 2011. Wrestling Revolution Project.
  3. Web site: Sami Callihan. May 21, 2012. Online World of Wrestling.
  4. Web site: Sami Callihan Profile. Impact Wrestling. August 11, 2019.
  5. Web site: Dissecting Solomon Crowe's nest. WWE. April 9, 2015.
  6. Web site: Sami Callihan bio. https://web.archive.org/web/20081030013414/http://www.hwaonline.com/Biographies/samicallihan.htm. October 30, 2008. April 24, 2009. Heartland Wrestling Association.
  7. Web site: Insanity Pro Wrestling!. www.insanityprowrestling.com . https://web.archive.org/web/20110829213733/http://www.insanityprowrestling.com/2006.html . August 29, 2011.
  8. Web site: 2007 Results. October 28, 2011 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20111015024952/http://www.insanityprowrestling.com/2007.html . October 15, 2011 .
  9. Web site: Insanity Pro Wrestling!. www.insanityprowrestling.com . https://web.archive.org/web/20111015024958/http://www.insanityprowrestling.com/2008.html . October 15, 2011.
  10. Web site: 2009 Results . October 28, 2011 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20111015015142/http://www.insanityprowrestling.com/2009.html . October 15, 2011 .
  11. Web site: Insanity Pro Wrestling!. www.insanityprowrestling.com . https://web.archive.org/web/20120319185937/http://www.insanityprowrestling.com/2010.html . March 19, 2012.
  12. Web site: Insanity Pro Wrestling!. www.insanityprowrestling.com . https://web.archive.org/web/20111115055319/http://www.insanityprowrestling.com/2011.html . November 15, 2011.
  13. Web site: PAST RING OF HONOR EVENTS. ROH. November 8, 2014. December 19, 2014. dead. https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event. March 22, 2013. mdy-all.
  14. Web site: ROH: Promotion makes national TV debut. https://archive.today/20120801201439/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/03/21/8839991.html. usurped. August 1, 2012. March 21, 2009. Bishop. Matt. April 24, 2009. Slam! Sports. Canadian Online Explorer.
  15. Web site: Results. September 22, 2009. Combat Zone Wrestling. dead. https://web.archive.org/web/20160127204543/http://www.czwrestling.com/archives/index.html. January 27, 2016. mdy-all.
  16. Web site: Official CZW 10th Anniversary Results and more News and Notes from CZW "X"!. February 16, 2009. April 24, 2009. Combat Zone Wrestling.
  17. Web site: CZW Title History – CZW New-Horror Title Champions. April 24, 2009. Combat Zone Wrestling. dead. https://web.archive.org/web/20101222162338/http://www.czwrestling.com/titlehistory/#NewHorror. December 22, 2010. mdy-all.
  18. Web site: CZW Eye for an Eye Quick Results including TOD and BOTB dates!. April 13, 2009. April 24, 2009. Combat Zone Wrestling.
  19. Web site: Rosales. Walter. DJ Hyde en exclusiva sobre CZW: "Queremos estar en televisión". 31 July 2017. 6 December 2017. Solo Wrestling. es.
  20. Web site: Sami Callihan. August 4, 2010. Evolve.
  21. Web site: Evolve report 7-23 Union City, NJ, Danielson vs. Fish. Risotto. J.D.. Wrestling Observer Newsletter. July 27, 2010. July 25, 2010.
  22. Web site: Radican's Evolve 19 iPPV blog 4/5: First Evolve champion crowned in Tournament Finals, Young Bucks vs. SSB (Updated w/complete review). Radican. Sean. April 9, 2013. May 31, 2013. Pro Wrestling Torch.
  23. Web site: Viva La Raza! Lucha Weekly. Boutwell. Josh. July 30, 2010. April 5, 2011. WrestleView.
  24. Web site: Austin Aries pulls a swerve at Dragon Gate USA's Open the Ultimate Gate 2011. Tylwalk. Nick. April 5, 2011. April 6, 2011. Slam! Sports. Canadian Online Explorer.
  25. Web site: News alerts. https://web.archive.org/web/20110405004008/http://www.dgusa.tv/newsalerts.htm. April 5, 2011. live. April 5, 2011. Dragon Gate USA.
  26. Web site: 6/5 DGUSA in New York City: Live perspective on Internet PPV event with technical issues – DGUSA Title match, six-man tag, Fray!. June 3, 2011. Devries. Eric. June 9, 2011. Pro Wrestling Torch.
  27. Web site: Dragon Gate USA wrestler works WWE dark match. October 24, 2012. Martin. Adam. October 24, 2012. WrestleView.
  28. Web site: Report: Indy wrestler undergoes medical tests for WWE. Martin. Adam. April 25, 2013. April 26, 2013. WrestleView.
  29. Web site: News: Callihan official for WWE, another DGUSA/Evolve star close behind, new match for Evolve 22, updated E20-22 line-ups. Caldwell. James. May 27, 2013. May 27, 2013. Pro Wrestling Torch.
  30. Web site: Thurs. update: Magnus missing TNA tapings, rebooking of tourney needed, White hints next Sonnen fight, Lots of changes with more UFC on FS 1, WrestleMania 2016, WWE tryout camp, Barnett vs. Mir, New Muto promotion on PPV, New Japan PPVs now in English. Meltzer. Dave. Dave Meltzer. August 29, 2013. August 29, 2013. Wrestling Observer Newsletter.
  31. Web site: Former Sami Callihan makes WWE debut. Johnson. Mike. August 30, 2013. September 14, 2013. PWInsider.
  32. Web site: Another Hall of Famer heading to the Slammys, NXT debut and more. December 7, 2013. Johnson. Mike. December 7, 2013. PWInsider.
  33. Web site: Spoilers: 2/28 WWE NXT TV tapings at Full Sail University. wrestleview.com. 4 February 2015.
  34. Web site: Howell. Nolan. NXT: Zayn returns to battle a disgruntled Graves. https://archive.today/20150119031858/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2014/03/06/21517341.html. usurped. January 19, 2015. Canoe.ca. Slam Wrestling. 4 February 2015.
  35. Web site: 8/30 NXT Results: Palatka, Florida (Solomon Crowe injury). September 1, 2014. Namako. Jason. September 11, 2014. WrestleView.
  36. Web site: Injury update on NXT wrestler Solomon Crowe. September 5, 2014. Namako. Jason. September 11, 2014. WrestleView.
  37. Web site: WrestleMania tickets on sale this week, Rollins talks WWE run, NXT star back from injury and tons more WWE news. November 10, 2014. Johnson. Mike. November 12, 2014. PWInsider.
  38. Web site: WWE NXT Report: about that non-title match between Owens and Zayn . . . there is a change; about those tag titles . . . there is a change; Kidd versus Neville; and more. Trionfo. Richard. January 28, 2015. February 4, 2015. PWInsider.
  39. Web site: Paglino. Nick. Complete WWE NXT TV Taping Results for Tonight *Spoilers*. WrestleZone. 18 February 2015. 18 February 2015.
  40. Web site: JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 3/4 - Week 142: Sasha vs. Charlotte for Women's Title, Crowe's in-ring debut, Alex Riley fires up, message from Sami Zayn, more; Overall Reax. March 4, 2015. March 8, 2015. James, Justin. Pro Wrestling Torch.
  41. Web site: WWE NXT star departs company. November 24, 2015. PWInsider.
  42. Web site: Show Results – 3/22 PWG All-Star Weekend Night 1: Guerrilla Warfare main event, Trent Baretta debuts, Gargano, London vs. Steen, Future Shock, more stars. Massingham. Matt. March 23, 2013. May 31, 2013. Pro Wrestling Torch.
  43. Web site: Show Results – 6/15 PWG in Reseda, Calif.: Complete live results from Sami Callihan's farewell in 60-minute Iron Man match, Steen, Richards, Young Bucks, Joey Ryan, more. Massingham. Matt. June 16, 2013. June 16, 2013. Pro Wrestling Torch.
  44. Web site: PWG live coverage 6–15 Reseda Cole vs. Callihan 60 minute Iron man match. Barnes. Erik. June 16, 2013. June 16, 2013. Wrestling Observer Newsletter.
  45. Web site: Is Your Body Ready?. June 17, 2013. Pro Wrestling Guerrilla.
  46. Web site: PWG All Star Weekend 11 - Tag 1 « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database. www.cagematch.net.
  47. Web site: PWG Only Kings Understand Each Other « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database. www.cagematch.net.
  48. Web site: PWG Head Like A Cole « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database. www.cagematch.net.
  49. Web site: 【『World Tag』出場チーム決定!】 "新顔"が続々登場! ジュース&キャラハン組! エルガン&ジェフ・コブ組!バレッタ&チャッキーT組! 復活のヘナーレは真壁とタッグ結成!. November 6, 2017. November 6, 2017. New Japan Pro-Wrestling. ja.
  50. Web site: NJPW Tag League Day One: Death Juice, Chaos victorious. https://web.archive.org/web/20171208175119/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2017/11/19/22765895.html. dead. December 8, 2017. Powell. John. November 19, 2017. December 8, 2017. Slam! Sports. Canadian Online Explorer.
  51. Web site: 鉄拳Presents World Tag League 2017. December 8, 2017. New Japan Pro-Wrestling. ja.
  52. Web site: Photo: Former WWE NXT Star Returns To The Indies - WrestlingInc.com. 29 November 2015 .
  53. AAWPro. AAW Wrestling. 670828025177645057. 29 November 2015. SAMI CALLIHAN HAS RETURNED TO AAW IMMEDIATELY ATTACKING THE NEW CHAMPION EDDIE KINGSTON.
  54. Web site: CZWrestling.com - Online Home of Combat Zone Wrestling and Women Superstars Uncensored ~ Wrestling That's Like Nothing Else! . www.czwrestling.com . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20151208074949/http://www.czwrestling.com/news.php/breaking_news__sami_callihan_returns_to_czw_at_cage_of_death_xvii.html . 2015-12-08.
  55. Web site: Former NXT Star Returns To PWG Friday Night - WrestlingInc.com. 12 December 2015 .
  56. Web site: PROGRESS Chapter 30: Super Strong Style 16 Tournament Edition 2016 - Tag 1 « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database. Philip. Kreikenbohm. www.cagematch.net.
  57. Web site: PROGRESS Chapter 30: Super Strong Style 16 Tournament Edition 2016 - Tag 2 « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database. Philip. Kreikenbohm. www.cagematch.net.
  58. Web site: FCP Championship « Titles Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database. Philip. Kreikenbohm. www.cagematch.net.
  59. Web site: HOG: HIGH INTENSITY 7 (8/17/18) - House of Glory Wrestling - Home. house-of-glory.
  60. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=228249
  61. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=253657
  62. Web site: Sami Callihan — Signs Deal To Appear On Lucha Underground Season 3. Ryan Satin. Satin, Ryan. 2016-03-23. 2016-06-15.
  63. Web site: Lucha Underground #3.15 - En La Sombra « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database. Kreikenbohm. Philip. www.cagematch.net. 2016-12-22.
  64. Web site: MLW One Shot « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database. www.cagematch.net.
  65. Web site: Interviews with Major League Wrestling talent in Miami. Jim. Varsallone. miamiherald.
  66. Web site: Savio Vega, Konnan, Davey Boy Smith Jr. & More Mlw News And Notes . PWInsider.com . 2019-06-17 . 2022-05-13.
  67. Web site: Powell. Jason. 11/5 Powell's Impact Wrestling Bound For Glory live review: Eli Drake vs. Johnny Impact for the Impact Wrestling Championship, OVE vs. LAX in a 5150 Street Fight for the IW Tag Titles, Sienna vs. Gail Kim vs. Allie for the Knockouts Title. Pro Wrestling Dot Net. November 5, 2017.
  68. Web site: IMPACT Results November 9, 2017. Impact Wrestling. Impactwrestling.com. October 27, 2019.
  69. Web site: IMPACT Results Dec. 14th, 2017. Impact Wrestling. Impactwrestling.com. October 27, 2019.
  70. Web site: IMPACT Results Jan. 18th, 2018. Impact Wrestling. Impactwrestling.com. October 27, 2019.
  71. Web site: Major Spoiler From Tonight's Impact Wrestling Taping. EWRWrestlingNews. October 25, 2019.
  72. Web site: IMPACT! on AXS TV Results - June 30, 2020. Impact Wrestling. 30 June 2020.
  73. Web site: Rob Van Dam Attacks Sami Callihan After Failing To Defeat The Former IMPACT World Champion. The Ring Report. 2 September 2020.
  74. Web site: Report: Sami Callihan Underwent Surgery For Broken Ankle. Fightful. Lambert. Jeremy. September 20, 2021. October 28, 2021.
  75. Web site: Impact Wrestling TV taping notes: Sami Callihan suffers broken ankle. Figure Four Online. Nason. Josh. September 20, 2021. October 28, 2021.
  76. Web site: Under Siege 2022 Full Results. Impact Wrestling. IMPACT Wrestling Staff. May 7, 2022. May 7, 2022.
  77. Web site: Sami Callihan Returns From Injury At IMPACT Under Siege 2022, Attacks Moose. Fightful. Guzzo. Gisberto. May 7, 2022. May 7, 2022. https://web.archive.org/web/20220508024731/https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-callihan-returns-injury-impact-under-siege-2022-attacks-moose. May 8, 2022. live.
  78. https://impactwrestling.com/sami-callihan/ Callihan - Impact Wrestling.com
  79. https://impactwrestling.com/sami-callihan/ Callihan - Impact Wrestling.com
  80. Web site: 5/4 Impact Wrestling TV results: Moore's review of Trinity debuts, Mike Bailey vs. Jonathan Gresham, Steve Maclin, Champagne Singh, and Shera vs. PCO and two partners, Yuya Uemura and Bhupindar Gujjar vs. Moose and Brian Myers, Alisha Edwards vs. Jody Threat. ProWrestling. May 4, 2023. May 4, 2023.
  81. Web site: Sami Callihan Must Find 2 Partners to Battle The Design at Under Siege. Impact Wrestling Staff. May 5, 2023. May 5, 2023.
  82. Web site: Rich Swann Joins Sami Callihan's Team for Under Siege Showdown With The Design. Impact Wrestling Staff. May 15, 2023. May 15, 2023.
  83. Web site: Josiah MacDonald. Impact Under Siege live results: Steve Maclin vs. PCO no DQ title match. F4Wonline. May 26, 2023. May 26, 2023.
  84. Web site: IMPACT Against All Odds Results: Alex Shelley Wins World Title, Chris Sabin Wins 9th X-Division Title. Siino. John. Post Wrestling. June 9, 2023. June 10, 2023. https://web.archive.org/web/20230610034003/https://www.postwrestling.com/2023/06/09/impact-against-all-odds-results-steve-maclin-vs-alex-shelley/. June 10, 2023. live.
  85. Web site: Sami Callihan Confirms IMPACT Wrestling Exit. Cultaholic. September 27, 2023. September 27, 2023.
  86. Web site: MLW Kings Of Colosseum Results – January 6, 2024. PW Mania. Ethan. Black. January 6, 2024. February 9, 2024.
  87. Web site: MLW SuperFight Results: Alex Kane vs. Satoshi Kojima, Jacob Fatu vs. Yuji Nagata. Post Wrestling. John. Siino. February 4, 2024. February 9, 2024.
  88. Web site: MLW "Intimidation Games" results (2/29): Vetter's review of Satoshi Kojima vs. Minoru Suzuki for the MLW Championship, Matt Riddle vs. Bad Dude Tito for the NJPW TV Title, Alex Kane vs. Bobby Fish. Chris. Vetter. Pro Wrestling Dot Net. February 29, 2024.
  89. Web site: MLW War Chamber 2024 - Part 2. April 19, 2024. Cagematch.
  90. Web site: TNA Rebellion results (4/20): Powell's review of Moose vs. Nic Nemeth for the TNA World Championship, Jordynne Grace vs. Steph De Lander for the Knockouts Title, Josh Alexander vs. Hammerstone. Powell. Jason. Pro Wrestling Dot Net. April 20, 2024. April 20, 2024.
  91. Web site: Sami Callihan on Instagram: "Engaged Death Machines. Happy Birthday to my absolute best friend and the best part of my life. In a world that is constantly crazy, I…" . Instagram.com . 2022-05-13.
  92. Web site: 2/19 AAW Results – Sami Callihan captures AAW Hvt. Title, plus Abyss, Hero, Gargano & Ciampa. February 20, 2016. Pro Wrestling Torch. 20 February 2016.
  93. Web site: AAW Jim Lynam Memorial Tournament 2018 - Tag 2 « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database. www.cagematch.net.
  94. Web site: 'The New Horror' Sami Callihan. https://web.archive.org/web/20101222174644/http://www.czwrestling.com/lockerroom/samicallihan.html. December 22, 2010. April 24, 2009. Combat Zone Wrestling.
  95. Web site: 4/14 CZW Best of the Best XI results in New Jersey. April 15, 2012. Namako. Jason. April 15, 2012. WrestleView.
  96. Web site: KO-D (King Of DDT) Open-weight Title . 2019-01-02 . Wrestling-Titles.com.
  97. Web site: 12/4 FIP in Florida: Final tournament results and winner of the 2010 Jeff Peterson Memorial Cup. Wojcik. Alan J.. December 5, 2010. December 5, 2010. Pro Wrestling Torch.
  98. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BkEqi-MdARo Pentagon Jr vs Sami Callihan: 2018 Match of the Year Impact 2018 Highlights Dec 27, 2018
  99. https://www.twitch.tv/videos/351428412 Impact Best of 2018 Fans' Choice Awards Reveal with Anthony Carelli and Alicia Atout! Behind the Lights Episode 34
  100. Web site: Best of 2019 Part One Recap. Impact Wrestling.
  101. Web site: • View topic - Quick Revelations Results . 2011-06-19 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20111004192641/http://www.insanityprowrestling.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=122 . October 4, 2011 . mdy-all .
  102. Web site: FEST Love Is A Battlefield « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database. Philip. Kreikenbohm. www.cagematch.net.
  103. Web site: IWC Super Indy XI. Cagematch. June 6, 2012. December 17, 2016.
  104. Web site: iwcwrestling. December 19, 2014. October 22, 2013. https://web.archive.org/web/20131022083550/http://www.iwcwrestling.com/supercards/superindyxi.html. dead.
  105. Web site: JAPW Tag Team Championship history. October 24, 2010. Jersey All Pro Wrestling. dead. https://web.archive.org/web/20110717203241/http://www.japw.net/main/history/champhistory.php?a=155. July 17, 2011. mdy-all.
  106. Web site: SPOILERS: Lucha Underground Tapings For 3/10 & 3/11: BIG Title Change.
  107. Web site: NWA Force 1 Results archive. June 1, 2011. NWA Force One Pro Wrestling.
  108. Web site: PWX Heavyweight Championship « Titles Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database. Philip. Kreikenbohm. www.cagematch.net.
  109. Web site: PW2.0 Heat Stroke « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database. Philip. Kreikenbohm. www.cagematch.net.
  110. Web site: Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 for 2012. August 25, 2012. Pro Wrestling Illustrated. The Internet Wrestling Database.
  111. Web site: Pro Wrestling Syndicate New Heavyweight Champion "The New Horror" Sami Callihan. May 28, 2010. May 29, 2011. Pro Wrestling Syndicate. May 2, 2013. https://web.archive.org/web/20130502104356/http://www.bedofnailz.com/pwsindex.html. dead.
  112. Web site: 2CW Heavyweight Championship « Titles Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database. Philip. Kreikenbohm. www.cagematch.net.
  113. Web site: wXw World Tag Team Championship history. September 11, 2010. Westside Xtreme Wrestling. dead. https://web.archive.org/web/20110718124557/http://www.wxw-wrestling.com/index2.php?content=title_history&id=2. July 18, 2011. mdy-all.
  114. Web site: 16 Carat Gold – Day 3 – Results. March 21, 2011. Westside Xtreme Wrestling.
  115. Web site: WC Sideshow Championship history.
  116. This was a tag team match, where Callihan and Jake Crist defeated Pentagón Jr. and Rey Fenix with Callihan winning the AAW Heavyweight Championship. Crist's career and Fenix's mask were also on the line.
  117. Web site: 10/8 AAW in Berwyn, Ill.: Chris Hero vs. Zack Sabre Jr., Pentagon Jr. & Rey Fenix vs. Jake Crist & Sami Callahan. Blanton. Michael. October 9, 2016. October 10, 2016. Pro Wrestling Torch.
  118. Web site: Rey Fenix vs. Sami Callihan and more: AAW Defining Moment 2017 live report . Boone . Jeremy . September 1, 2017 . September 1, 2017 . Pro Wrestling Insider.