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Sami Callihan
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Samuel Alton Johnston[4] (born September 1, 1987),[5] better known by the ring name Sami Callihan, is an American retired professional wrestler and promoter. He is known for his time in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), Combat Zone Wrestling (CZW), and Major League Wrestling (MLW).[1] He also wrestled for Lucha Underground under the ring names Jeremiah Crane, and later, Jeremiah Snake, and in WWE under the ring name Solomon Crowe.[2]

Key Information

He 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 runs an independent wrestling promotion called The Wrestling Revolver.

Professional wrestling career

[edit]

Independent circuit (2006–2013)

[edit]

Shortly after his debut, Callihan became a member of "The Crew" faction, which also consisted of Jon Moxley, Dick Rick and Pepper Parks.[6] Callihan began regularly competing for the Heartland Wrestling Association, and faced wrestlers including Chad Collyer and Nigel McGuinness.[6] He competed in Chikara's 2008 Young Lions Tournament but did not win the tournament.[6] 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 during a 2CW show in September 2011

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.

Combat Zone Wrestling (2008–2013)

[edit]
Callihan in 2010

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.[13]

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.[14] 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".[13][15][16] On June 13, 2009, Callihan lost the championship to Egotistico Fantastico.[15] 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.[17] 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.

Ring of Honor (2008–2009)

[edit]

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.[18] Callihan appeared on the inaugural episode of Ring of Honor Wrestling on HDNet, which aired on March 21, losing to Kenny King.[19]

Evolve (2010–2013)

[edit]

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)

[edit]

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]

Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (2012–2013)

[edit]

Callihan made his debut for the Southern California-based company Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG) 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.[27] 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.[28][29][30]

WWE (2012–2015)

[edit]
Solomon Crowe in 2015

On October 23, 2012, Johnston wrestled a dark match for WWE, in which he was defeated by Johnny Curtis.[31] 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.[32][33]

On August 29, 2013, under the new WWE ring name Solomon Crowe,[34] he debuted for WWE's developmental system NXT, with a loss to Xavier Woods at a live event.[35] 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.[36] At the February 28, 2014, NXT television tapings, Crowe defeated Sylvester Lefort in what would have been his NXT television debut,[37] but the match was removed from the episode; it was supposed to air for the March 6, 2014 NXT.[38] 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.[39][40][41]

From the January 28, 2015, episode of NXT, WWE began airing teasers for Crowe's television debut.[42] On the February 18 episode of NXT, Crowe made his television debut as a face, attacking CJ Parker.[43] In his first televised match on the March 4 episode of NXT, he defeated Bull Dempsey.[44]

On November 24, 2015, WWE announced that Johnston was released from his WWE contract.[45]

Return to the independent circuit (2015–2025)

[edit]
Callihan posing post-match at a Smash Wrestling show in 2017

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.[46] He attacked new AAW Heavyweight Champion, Eddie Kingston.[47]

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.[48]

On December 11, 2015, Callihan returned to Pro Wrestling Guerrilla in the first night of All-Star Weekend event, where he defeated Drew Gulak.[49]

Callihan debuted for PROGRESS Wrestling in May 2016 during the 2016 Super Strong Style 16 tournament, beating Matt Cross in the first round[50] and losing to Tommy End in the quarter finals.[51]

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.[52]

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.[53]

On November 2, 2019, Callihan debuted for Insane Championship Wrestling with a victory over BT Gunn at Fear & Loathing XII in Glasgow, Scotland.[54] 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.[55]

Return to PWG (2015–2017)

[edit]

On December 11, 2015, Callihan returned to PWG at All Star Weekend 11, defeating Drew Gulak.[56] 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).[57] On May 19, at PWG Head Like A Cole, Callihan would pick a victory over former rival Adam Cole.[58] 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.

Return to CZW (2015–2018)

[edit]

On December 12, 2015 at Cage of Death XVII, Callihan returned to CZW, defeating David Starr.[59] In July 2017, in a behind-the-scenes promotion, Callihan was appointed the leader of CZW's creative team.[60]

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

Lucha Underground (2016–2019)

[edit]

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.[61] 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.[62] 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)

[edit]

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.[63] 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.[64] In June 2019, Callihan lost a Loser Leaves MLW against Mance Warner, leaving the promotion.[65]

Impact Wrestling (2017–2023)

[edit]

Ohio Versus Everything (2017–2019)

[edit]
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.[66] Callihan and The Crist Brothers then formed a faction named Ohio Versus Everything (oVe), where they started a feud with LAX.[67] On the December 14 episode of Impact, Callihan would light a fire flame in the face of Konnan after a face to face summit.[68] 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.[69] 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)

[edit]

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.[70] 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)

[edit]

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.[71] 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.[72] 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.[73][74] Callihan returned at the Under Siege event, on May 7, 2022, attacking Moose.[75][76]

Ohio Versus Everything reunion (2023)

[edit]

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.[77] On April 16, 2023, at Rebellion, Callihan turned on The Design by hitting Deaner with a baseball bat, thus turning face again.[77] 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.[78] 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.[79] On May 15, Impact announced Rich Swann as the first of Callihan's two partners.[80] On May 26 at Under Siege, Callihan, Swann and the returning Jake Crist defeated The Design.[81] On June 9 at Against All Odds, oVe defeated The Design in an Ohio Street Fight.[82]

On September 27, it was reported that Callihan is officially done with Impact Wrestling.[83]

New Japan Pro-Wrestling (2017)

[edit]

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.[84] The team, dubbed "Death Juice",[85] finished second in their block with a record of four wins and three losses, failing to advance to the finals.[86]

Return to MLW (2024)

[edit]

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.[87] Callihan would feud with Akira, defeating him in a Death Machine Rules match at SuperFight.[88] Callihan and Shane Page defeated Akira and Jake Crist in a New York City Street Fight at Intimidation Games.[89] Callihan along with Shane Page, Cannonball, and Dr. Cornwallis lost to Death Fighters (Raven, Akira, Jake Crist, and Jimmy Lloyd) at War Chamber.[90]

Return to Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (2024–2025)

[edit]

On April 20, 2024 at Rebellion. Callihan made his surprise return to Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (formerly known as Impact Wrestling), to attack Kon, Jason Hotch and John Skyler helping Jordynne Grace retain her TNA Knockouts World Championship over Steph De Lander.[91] On August 15, 2025 at Emergence, Callihan was forced to retire after losing to Mike Santana in a Baltimore Street Fight, ending his 20-year career.[92]

Personal life

[edit]

On June 20, 2021, Johnston got engaged to fellow Impact wrestler Jessicka Havok (on the latter's 35th birthday).[93]

Championships and accomplishments

[edit]
Callihan as the Alpha-1 Outer Limits Champion

Luchas de Apuestas record

[edit]
See also: Luchas de Apuestas
Winner (wager) Loser (wager) Location Event Date Notes
Sami Callihan (hair) Pentagón Jr. (championship) Berwyn, Illinois Jim Lynam Memorial Tournament - Day 2 October 8, 2016 [Note 1][118]
Rey Fenix (mask) Sami Callihan (championship) Berwyn, Illinois Defining Moment 2017 August 31, 2017 [119]
Pentagón Jr. (mask) Sami Callihan (hair) Toronto, Ontario, Canada Slammiversary XVI July 22, 2018

Footnotes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Sami Callihan

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Sami Callihan, born Samuel Alton Johnston on September 1, 1987, in , is an American retired professional wrestler, promoter, and trainer renowned for his intense brawler style and contributions to independent and major wrestling promotions. Debuting in 2006 after training on the independent circuit, Callihan quickly established himself in hardcore and deathmatch wrestling scenes, competing in promotions such as (CZW) and (ROH) early in his career. He gained wider recognition with a two-year stint in WWE's NXT from 2013 to 2015 under the Solomon Crowe, where he showcased a technical and striking-based approach before being released. Callihan then transitioned to as Jeremiah Crane, portraying a mystical character, and later joined Impact Wrestling (now TNA) in 2017, where he became a key figure as the leader of the faction oVe and captured the Impact World Championship in 2019. Throughout his two-decade career, he wrestled in over 1,400 matches across organizations like Major League Wrestling (MLW), New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), and Evolve, earning acclaim for high-profile feuds and his role in elevating the hardcore wrestling genre. In 2016, Callihan founded Pro Wrestling Revolver, an independent promotion focused on innovative booking and crossover talent, and in 2022, he established the Piledriver Wrestling Academy to train upcoming wrestlers. Since 2024, he has served as TNA's Director of Live Events, contributing to the company's production and touring operations. Callihan's in-ring career concluded on August 15, 2025, at TNA Emergence, where he lost a Baltimore Street Fight to Mike Santana per a pre-match stipulation and symbolically left his boots in the ring, marking his retirement at age 37 after a storied run hampered by a lingering leg injury from 2021.

Early life

Childhood in Ohio

Samuel Alton Johnston, professionally known as Sami Callihan, was born on September 1, 1987, in Bellefontaine, Ohio. He was raised in Bellefontaine, a small town in Logan County, where the rural Midwestern setting contributed to his formative years. Johnston's early life in this community remained largely private, though it fostered the resilient, no-frills attitude that later became hallmarks of his wrestling persona.

Wrestling training and debut

Callihan, born Samuel Alton Johnston in , developed an early interest in during his teenage years, influenced by the regional scene in the Midwest. At the age of 18, he began formal training in 2005 at Les Thatcher's Main Event Pro Wrestling school in , , a renowned facility known for producing talent through rigorous instruction in fundamentals, safety, and performance. Under the guidance of veteran trainers —a Hall of Famer with decades of experience in the industry—Cody Hawk, and , Callihan focused on building a strong foundation in brawling and technical skills, adapting to the physical demands of the ring. Thatcher's program emphasized traditional wrestling psychology and conditioning, which helped Callihan transition from amateur aspirations to professional readiness over several months of intensive sessions. Callihan made his professional debut on April 1, 2006, for Independent Professional Wrestling (IPW) in , performing under the ring name "Cannonball Sami" in a three-way match against Jeff Brooks and Tony Galloway, which Brooks won. This match marked his entry into the independent circuit, where he quickly adopted a hard-hitting, aggressive style reflective of his training. Later in 2006, he shortened his name to Sami Callihan and continued competing regularly for IPW and other regional promotions like , facing opponents such as Alan Wasylychyn and gaining experience in multi-man bouts.

Professional wrestling career

Early independent career (2005–2008)

Callihan made his professional wrestling debut in 2006 on the independent circuit in the United States, beginning a period of grinding through small promotions to build his skills and reputation. Early in his career, he competed primarily in the Midwest, including appearances for , where he participated in events such as the Revolution Strong Style Tournament on December 5, 2008, in , facing opponents like Trik Davis in bracket-style matches. These bouts helped establish him in the scene, emphasizing stiff strikes and intense physicality. By 2006, Callihan expanded his reach, making his debut for Great Canadian Wrestling (GCW) on May 11 at the event, where he wrestled in a match that showcased his aggressive style. Around this time, he began forming key alliances, notably teaming with fellow native (then performing under his real name), including a notable 2006 match where Moxley served as his corner man against in an independent show. This partnership laid the groundwork for their future collaboration, highlighting Callihan's ability to connect with rising talents in the indie landscape. In 2008, Callihan's career gained momentum with his debut for (CZW) on June 14 at the event, entering a promotion renowned for its ultraviolent matches involving weapons and high-risk maneuvers. He quickly adapted to CZW's style, competing in battles against wrestlers like Drake Younger and earning acclaim for his resilience. Later that year, on August 2, he won the IPW Junior Heavyweight Championship by defeating Billy Roc, marking his first title on the independent scene. These experiences solidified his transition from novice to a notable figure in the hardcore division, setting the stage for broader recognition.

Rise on the independent circuit (2008–2013)

Callihan established himself as a rising star on the independent wrestling scene beginning in 2008, particularly through his intense, hardcore style in promotions like (CZW). He made his CZW debut on June 14, 2008, at the event, quickly gaining attention for his aggressive approach in a promotion known for its extreme matches. Later that year, on September 13, 2008, he won the [Chri Ca$h](/page/Chri_Ca$h) Memorial , marking an early highlight in his tenure. In CZW, Callihan formed the Switchblade Conspiracy with , which became renowned for its brutal matches and earned a high rating of 9.37 on fan databases for their overall impact. The duo helped him capture the CZW Championship (later renamed the New Horror Championship) in 2009, which he co-held with Moxley until 2011. He also briefly won the CZW Ultraviolent Underground Championship on , 2009, defeating only to lose it the same night to Thumbtack Jack in a violent match. Callihan secured the CZW World Junior Heavyweight Championship twice during this period, solidifying his status as a top junior talent in the promotion's ultraviolent environment. His crowning achievement came in 2012 when he won the Best of the Best tournament, defeating a field of elite competitors in a showcase of his resilience and skill. Additionally, he challenged for the CZW World Heavyweight Championship against Moxley but was unsuccessful, further highlighting their storied rivalry. Expanding beyond CZW, Callihan debuted in Ring of Honor (ROH) on November 11, 2008, at the Escalation event, competing in a four-corner survival match that he lost, but it introduced his brawling style to a broader audience. He appeared on ROH's inaugural HDNet television episode on March 21, 2009, losing to Kenny King in a competitive singles bout. Other notable ROH outings included a loss to Austin Aries on February 27, 2009, at Eliminating the Competition, where his underdog tenacity was on display against established stars. His ROH run through 2009 emphasized multi-man matches and television exposure, helping build his reputation as a versatile performer. Callihan's independent ascent continued with his Evolve debut on May 1, 2010, at Evolve 3: Rise or Fall, where he defeated rising star in a hard-fought opener that showcased his technical prowess alongside hardcore elements. He competed regularly in Evolve through 2013, including a standout 2011 match against wrestling veteran at Evolve 9, noted for its physicality and . In the 2013 Evolve Title Tournament, Callihan advanced by winning a four-way freestyle match against Samuray del Sol, Jigsaw, and on April 5, demonstrating his adaptability in a promotion focused on pure wrestling. These appearances, combined with stints in and , positioned him as a key figure in the Northeast indie scene by the end of 2013.

WWE tenure (2012–2015)

Callihan signed a developmental contract with in May 2013, following reports of his impending deal earlier that month. He had previously appeared in a dark match for the company on October 23, 2012, losing to Johnny Curtis. Adopting the ring name Solomon Crowe, Callihan made his in-ring debut for 's NXT brand at a live event on August 29, 2013, where he was defeated by . For the next year and a half, Crowe primarily competed in non-televised matches, including house shows and dark matches on NXT television tapings, while developed a hacker-themed character for him. In August 2014, Crowe sustained a broken leg that delayed his television debut, contributing to a six-month period without competition. Crowe's on-screen character debuted in a vignette on the December 6, 2013, episode of NXT, where he portrayed an "evil hacker" using a tablet device to interfere in matches. However, his television in-ring debut was postponed until January 2015, amid creative uncertainties with the gimmick, which Callihan later described as poorly executed and confusing. During this time, he expressed frustration over conflicting directions from WWE officials, feeling he had become a "shell" of his independent persona and lost his wrestling identity. In 2015, Crowe began appearing more regularly on NXT programming. He teamed with Neville in the 2015 , but they were eliminated in the first round by and on the September 2 episode. Days later, on September 16, Crowe faced in his first televised singles match, losing via pinfall after a series of athletic exchanges highlighted by Crews' standing and gorilla press in under five minutes. Crowe also main-evented several NXT house shows against prominent talents like and during this period. Despite these opportunities, Crowe grew disillusioned with the lack of creative freedom and momentum in NXT, leading him to request his release from WWE on November 23, 2015, which was granted the following day. He departed on good terms, rejecting a standard 30-day non-compete clause to immediately resume independent wrestling, and later reflected that allowing external influences to alter his style had hindered his potential.

Return to independent promotions (2015–2017)

Following his release from WWE on November 24, 2015, Callihan waived the and immediately resumed independent bookings under his established . He made his return to the circuit on November 28, 2015, at AAW: Redefined in Chicago, Illinois, where he ambushed immediately after Kingston's main event victory over , igniting a new rivalry and drawing a strong crowd reaction for his unmasked, aggressive persona. The following night, on November 29, 2015, at 2CW's A League of Our Own event in , Callihan captured his first championship of the post-WWE era by defeating Sean Carr to win the 2CW Heavyweight Championship, holding the title for approximately three weeks before dropping it to on December 20. This quick success underscored his momentum on the Northeast indie scene. Early 2016 saw him expand into other promotions, including a loss to Jack Evans at PWG's Unseen (February 12) and a victory over Mike Bailey at CZW's Seventeen (February 13), where his hard-hitting style meshed with the promotion's ultraviolent reputation. Callihan's most prominent run during this period came in AAW, where he defeated on February 19, 2016, at to claim the , beginning a 155-day reign marked by intense defenses. Notable victories included retaining against on May 6 at AAW's Windy City Classic via submission, solidifying his status as a top draw in the Midwest. He lost the title to Penta Zero Miedo () on July 23 at United We Stand 2016 in a high-profile Mexican death match, ending the reign but highlighting his versatility in blending technical and hardcore elements. Throughout mid-2016, Callihan achieved the rare feat of holding multiple world titles simultaneously across promotions, showcasing his heavy booking schedule and appeal. On May 21, he beat John Skyler in a winner-takes-all match at PWX's event in Gastonia, North Carolina, to win the PWX Heavyweight Championship while retaining his AAW belt, though he dropped the PWX title to Skyler in a rematch on June 18. Days later, on June 1 at Rockstar Pro's Resurrection, he dethroned Zachary Wentz for the Rockstar Pro World Championship, holding it until September 2 when he lost to Kongo Muchacho. These overlapping reigns, combined with appearances in Evolve—such as a brutal 2016 clash with Drew Gulak—established him as one of the indie circuit's most versatile and sought-after performers, often praised for his ability to elevate undercard talent through gritty, narrative-driven bouts. Into 2017, Callihan maintained a rigorous independent schedule, including stints in promotions like Smash Wrestling and international tours, while turning down offers to stay exclusive to TV during his non-compete period. His freelance approach allowed creative freedom, leading to standout matches like a December 30, 2016, title defense against Rey Fénix at AAW's Windy City Classic XIII, where he retained via piledriver in a main event that blended aerial innovation with his signature brutality. This phase culminated in early bookings that positioned him for larger opportunities, as his reputation for reliable, high-impact performances drew interest from major leagues.

Impact Wrestling run (2017–2023)

Callihan made his Impact Wrestling debut on November 5, 2017, at the Bound for Glory pay-per-view event, where he interfered in a 5150 Street Fight for the Impact World Tag Team Championship between LAX and oVe, aligning himself with the Ohio Versus Everything (oVe) stable led by Jake and Dave Crist. This marked the beginning of his role as a key antagonist in the promotion, emphasizing a hardcore, anti-establishment persona that resonated with Impact's edgier booking direction. As oVe's de facto leader following the Crist brothers' intermittent involvement, Callihan helped solidify the group as a dominant force, engaging in violent brawls and disrupting main events to establish their notoriety. Throughout 2018, Callihan's prominence grew through intense feuds that highlighted his brawling style. A marquee rivalry with Pentagon Jr. escalated after Callihan and oVe attacked and unmasked the luchador on the June 28 episode of Impact Wrestling, leading to a high-stakes Hair vs. Mask match at XVI on July 22, 2018. Pentagon Jr. emerged victorious, forcing Callihan to have his head shaved in a dramatic post-match angle that underscored the personal animosity and drew significant fan attention. This feud extended to Pentagon's brother Rey Fénix, culminating in a Street Fight loss for Callihan in August 2018, further cementing his reputation as a resilient willing to push boundaries. oVe also clashed with teams like LAX in multi-man matches, blending warfare with Callihan's individual aggression to capture mid-card momentum. By 2019, Callihan's trajectory shifted toward the main event scene, bolstered by his leadership in oVe and consistent performances. On February 25, 2019, he signed a multi-year contract extension with Impact, signaling the promotion's investment in his drawing power. His breakthrough came on the October 29 episode of Impact Wrestling—marking the show's debut on —when he defeated in a steel cage match to win the , ending Cage's reign and fulfilling Callihan's long-teased ambition to become the "face of Impact." During his 75-day title reign, Callihan defended against challengers like and Eddie Edwards in hardcore stipulation bouts, portraying a chaotic champion who thrived on controversy. The reign concluded at on January 12, 2020, in a controversial intergender match against , whom he lost to via Buzzsaw , making her the first woman to hold the . Post-title, Callihan's career in Impact remained versatile, oscillating between heel and anti-hero roles amid evolving storylines. In 2021, he challenged Kenny Omega for the Impact World Championship at Slammiversary on July 17, positioning himself as a credible threat in the promotion's crossover era with All Elite Wrestling, though he fell short in the main event. He renewed his multi-year deal on January 1, 2021, committing to Impact's creative direction and contributing to feuds involving Moose, Trey Miguel, and tag team pursuits with partners like PCO, though without securing additional gold. By 2022–2023, Callihan adopted a more fan-favorite edge, participating in multi-man matches and survival series like the Ultimate X at Sacrifice, while mentoring younger talent and embodying Impact's resilient spirit. His tenure ended on September 30, 2023, when his contract expired amid reported pay disputes, concluding a six-year run that saw him evolve from invading heel to world champion and company pillar.

International and other appearances (2017–2019)

In 2017, Callihan expanded his presence beyond American independent circuits with several international outings. On March 25, he teamed with Garza Jr. to defeat Black Taurus and James Storm in Tijuana, Mexico, for The Crash Lucha Libre. Later that year, on April 5 in Mexico City, he joined Cody Rhodes and Katsuhiko Nakajima to face La Rebelión (Rey Fénix, Penta El Zero Miedo, and Rey Misterio Jr.) in a six-man tag match. These appearances highlighted his growing crossover appeal in lucha libre promotions. Callihan's most prominent international excursion came in Japan with New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). On June 2, he competed in the 2 event in , losing a singles match to Hiroyuki Kondo. Later, from November 18 to December 11, he partnered with as "Death Juice" in the World Tag League's Block A, wrestling eight matches across , including victories over SANADA and on November 18 in and Minoru Suzuki and Takashi Iizuka on December 1 in . The team accumulated eight points but did not advance to the finals. Callihan's Impact Wrestling debut occurred internationally on November 5 at Bound for Glory in , , , where he interfered as a in the 5150 Street Fight for the Impact World Tag Team Championship, aligning with Ohio Versus Everything (oVe) to cost LAX the titles. Impact's subsequent Canadian tapings further integrated him into the promotion's North American expansion; in 2018, he defeated Pentagon Jr. in a Mexican Death Match during TV tapings. Similar tapings in on April 29, 2019, featured him in key storylines leading to . Domestically, Callihan balanced his Impact commitments with a significant run in (MLW) from 2017 to 2019. He debuted on October 5, 2017, at One Shot in , defeating Penta El Zero Miedo in a no-disqualification match. Notable bouts included a Boiler Room Brawl victory over MVP on April 12, 2018, in , and a loss to for the on December 14, 2018, in . His MLW tenure culminated in 2019 with appearances at events like III on June 28 in , where he participated in the multi-man . Other notable U.S. appearances included a March 15, 2018, win over at DEFY Wrestling's event in , Washington, showcasing his hardcore style in independents. These outings reinforced Callihan's versatility across promotions while elevating his status as a chaotic antagonist.

Returns to MLW and NJPW (2024)

In early 2024, Sami Callihan made his return to (MLW) after a five-year absence, aligning himself with the stable The Calling. On January 5, 2024, at MLW Reload in , , Callihan debuted by challenging , but was defeated in a singles match lasting 10 minutes and 41 seconds. Callihan's involvement with The Calling intensified throughout the year, positioning him as a key enforcer in the group's feuds. On February 3, 2024, at MLW SuperFight in , he defeated AKIRA under Death Machine Rules in 13 minutes and 37 seconds, solidifying his aggressive style within the promotion. Later that month, on February 29 at MLW Intimidation Games in , Callihan teamed with to win a New York City Street Fight against AKIRA and in 11 minutes and 7 seconds, retaining momentum for The Calling. A prominent rivalry emerged with , highlighted by multiple high-stakes encounters. On May 11, 2024, at MLW Fury Road in , their singles match ended in a double countout after 7 minutes and 38 seconds due to the competitors brawling outside the ring. Callihan participated in the 40-man VI match on June 1 in Atlanta, Georgia, where Riddle ultimately emerged victorious by last eliminating Jacob Fatu. The feud culminated on July 12 at MLW Blood & Thunder in , in a No Ropes Death Match, where Riddle defeated Callihan via submission in 14 minutes and 51 seconds, emphasizing Callihan's hardcore resilience against Riddle's grappling prowess. No verified appearances or returns to (NJPW) occurred for Callihan in 2024; his prior involvement with the promotion dated to the 2017 World Tag League alongside . MLW events in 2024 featured NJPW talent such as KENTA and , but Callihan did not compete in any NJPW-sanctioned matches or cross-promotional bouts with the company during this period.)

TNA return and retirement (2024–2025)

Callihan made a surprise return to Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) at the Rebellion pay-per-view event on April 20, 2024, during the Knockouts World Championship match between champion Jordynne Grace and challenger Steph De Lander. He intervened by attacking The Good Hands (Jason Hotch and John Skyler) and their manager Konnan, who were interfering on behalf of De Lander, allowing Grace to retain her title via pinfall. This appearance marked Callihan's first TNA appearance since his departure in 2023, and he subsequently signed a deal to work both TNA and Major League Wrestling (MLW) concurrently. Upon his return, Callihan quickly integrated into TNA's undercard storylines, competing in a series of hardcore and tag team matches throughout 2024. He teamed with Pierre-Carl Ouellet (PCO) to defeat The Good Hands on the December 5, 2024, episode of TNA Impact!. Other notable bouts included a qualifying match loss to Maclin for a multi-man title contender spot on June 27, 2024, and a singles victory over Trent Seven on TNA Xplosion on November 29, 2024. Callihan also feuded with veterans like Frankie Kazarian, losing a non-title match on TNA Xplosion on September 6, 2024, which highlighted his role as a resilient brawler in TNA's midcard division. In 2025, Callihan's TNA run intensified with a brutal feud against Mance Warner, culminating in multiple stipulation matches that showcased his hardcore wrestling style, hampered by a lingering leg injury from 2021. The rivalry began with a three-way match in early 2025 involving AJ Francis, where tensions escalated into a Street Fight at Sacrifice on March 14, won by Warner, and a Barbed Wire Massacre at Unbreakable on April 17, which Callihan won. The two briefly called a truce on the May 1 episode of TNA Impact!, shaking hands after their violent exchanges. However, by July 2025, Callihan entered a high-stakes Baltimore Street Fight against Mike Santana at Emergence on August 15, stipulating that a loss would end his in-ring career. Santana defeated Callihan in the grueling street fight at , prompting Callihan to leave his boots in the center of the ring as a symbolic retirement gesture, concluding his full-time wrestling career after nearly two decades. This match served as the capstone to Callihan's final TNA stint, where he had reaffirmed his reputation as "The Death Machine" through intense, bloody confrontations despite ongoing effects from his 2021 leg injury. Post-retirement, Callihan expressed gratitude to fans and TNA on , confirming his departure from active competition while leaving open possibilities for non-wrestling roles.

Wrestling promotion

Founding Wrestling Revolver

In 2016, following his release from WWE's NXT developmental brand, Sami Callihan founded The Wrestling Revolver as an independent professional wrestling promotion based in the Midwest United States. As the owner and promoter, Callihan envisioned the company as a diverse platform blending styles from hardcore deathmatches to high-flying aerial maneuvers and technical grappling, drawing talent from both independent circuits and major promotions like Impact Wrestling. This approach allowed him to create events tailored "for our generation, by our generation," while leveraging his contractual flexibility from other bookings to support the promotion's operations. The inaugural event, titled the Debut Show, took place on June 10, 2016, at the 7 Flags Event Center in , marking the promotion's entry into the indie wrestling landscape. Callihan not only promoted the card but also competed in a featured match against former star Bob Holly, which Holly won, highlighting his dual role as performer and executive from the outset. Early shows emphasized innovative match types, such as the main event Cage of Horrors involving , scaffolds, and multiple wrestlers, setting a tone for Revolver's reputation as a boundary-pushing entity. Through this foundation, Callihan aimed to nurture emerging talents like Zachary Wentz, , and , providing them exposure alongside established names.

Key events and roster highlights

The Wrestling Revolver, founded by Sami Callihan in 2016 in , has hosted a series of signature events that emphasize high-stakes, cross-promotional matches blending independent talent with stars from major promotions like Impact Wrestling (now TNA) and AEW. The promotion's debut event on June 10, 2016, in , marked its entry into the indie scene, featuring Callihan in a high-profile match against Bob Holly, setting a tone for intense, hardcore-style bouts. Subsequent early shows like Iowa Goes Lucha (October 28, 2016) introduced influences, while the Pancakes & Piledrivers series—starting in , on April 1, 2017, and expanding to multi-promotion collaborations in New Orleans (April 7, 2018) and (April 6, 2019)—highlighted innovative card formats with breakfast-themed pre-show elements and dream inter-promotional encounters. The Tales From The Ring events have become a cornerstone, with the inaugural on October 28, 2017, in Clive, Iowa, evolving into annual spectacles that draw top talent; for instance, the October 30, 2021, iteration featured Jon Moxley and Sami Callihan teaming against The Wolves (Eddie Edwards and Davey Richards), reuniting the former allies in a high-impact tag match. Similarly, the Cage of Horrors series, beginning July 9, 2022, in Clive, Iowa, showcased Moxley and Callihan reuniting as a team against The Wolves (Eddie Edwards and Davey Richards) in a brutal cage environment, emphasizing the promotion's affinity for deathmatch and extreme stipulations. A standout recent event was Mayhem For All on May 6, 2023, at the Horizon Events Center in Clive, Iowa, where Callihan defeated Masha Slamovich in a deathmatch, Jon Moxley bested Jake Crist, and Steve Maclin retained the REVOLVER World Championship against Mike Bailey; the card also included The Rascalz (Trey Miguel, Myron Reed, Zachary Wentz) overcoming the Bullet Club (David Finlay, Ace Austin, Chris Bey) in a six-man tag, underscoring crossovers with AEW and NJPW talent. Roster highlights for The Wrestling Revolver include a mix of established indie veterans, rising stars, and guest appearances from major leagues, fostering unique matchups. Callihan was a fixture until his 2025 retirement, often competing in main events that leveraged his hardcore persona, and continues as owner and promoter as of November 2025. Prominent regulars and guests encompass TNA/Impact affiliates like , , , Zachary Wentz, and Myron Reed—who holds the as of November 2025—alongside AEW standouts such as and , and legends like Snitsky and Muhammad Hassan. The , currently with BDE, and the REVOLVER Scramble Championship, held by Bigg Pound, have been defended in multi-man scrambles and tag scenarios, while crossovers like the TNA X-Division appearance by Leon add prestige. Other notables include , , , and The Unit (JT Dunn and Allie Katch), contributing to the promotion's reputation for diverse, high-energy cards averaging strong fan ratings around 8.5 on platforms like Cagematch.

Other pursuits

Acting and media appearances

Sami Callihan developed an early interest in acting through high school theater and musical productions, which he credits with honing performance skills essential to his wrestling persona. He performed as Reverend Shaw in a stage adaptation of Footloose and took on a supporting role in Brigadoon. These experiences, combined with participation in debate and public speaking, served as foundational training for his career in professional wrestling, allowing him to refine character work and audience engagement. In addition to his theater background, Callihan has explored creative pursuits beyond wrestling, including aspirations in screenwriting. During a 2020 interview, he revealed plans to write his first screenplay and produce a low-budget film, aiming for a concise 30- to 40-minute runtime to test his abilities in narrative storytelling. Callihan has made numerous media appearances on podcasts, where he discusses his wrestling journey, creative influences, and industry insights. Notable guest spots include the 2018 episode of Talk Is Jericho titled "Sami Callihan Against The World," focusing on his independent circuit challenges; the 2017 Art of Wrestling episode #333, covering his career evolution; and a 2019 Busted Open appearance alongside Mick Foley, addressing Impact Wrestling storylines. He also joined the WINC Podcast in 2017 for discussions on WWE and independents, the 2021 Not About Wrestling episode #44, reflecting on high-profile feuds, and the 2023 Cultaholic Wrestling interview on his Impact departure and future plans. His non-wrestling media profile includes a feature in the 2015 short documentary They Came For Stiff, which chronicles his early independent wrestling travels and personal drive in New York City.

Podcast and content creation

Sami Callihan has established himself as a multifaceted content creator outside the ring, leveraging his creative skills in producing, writing, editing, and marketing for professional wrestling promotions. As the founder of Pro Wrestling Revolver (PWR), he plays a central role in developing multimedia content for the organization, including video series and promotional materials that enhance event storytelling and fan engagement. One notable example is the "From the Mind of Sami Callihan" playlist on the official PWR YouTube channel, which features original content conceptualized and produced under his direction to showcase unique perspectives on wrestling narratives and behind-the-scenes insights. In addition to his promotional work, Callihan maintains an active presence on streaming platforms, particularly Twitch, where he streams video games and interacts with fans under the RealSamiCallihan. His channel, which boasts over 3,000 followers and holds official partnered status, emphasizes his passion for gaming, including mastery of classic titles, aligning with his self-described identity as an "N64 Master." This streaming activity allows him to connect with audiences beyond wrestling, discussing topics from pop culture to personal experiences while fostering a community around his diverse interests. Regarding podcasts, Callihan has frequently contributed as a featured guest and occasional co-host on wrestling-focused shows, sharing insights into his career and the industry. He has appeared on episodes of the , produced in association with PWR and hosted by and Alex Colon, where he participates in discussions on entertainment, horror, and wrestling culture—such as in the October 2025 episode featuring him alongside exploring Nicolas Cage's . These appearances highlight his role in extending PWR's content ecosystem through audio formats available on , blending humor and analysis to attract a broader .

Personal life

Family and relationships

He was previously married to professional wrestler Chrissy Rivera during his time in (CZW). Since 2014, Callihan has been in a relationship with fellow professional wrestler (real name Jessica Cricks). The couple became engaged on June 20, 2021, which coincided with Havok's birthday. As of November 2025, they remain engaged.

Health and advocacy

Callihan has faced significant physical health challenges throughout his wrestling career, culminating in his retirement from in-ring competition in August 2025 due to chronic injuries. A major setback occurred in September 2021 when he suffered a severe leg fracture during a match, breaking both his tibia and fibula, which required extensive surgery involving plates and screws. The injury left his leg permanently compromised, with Callihan stating it would never fully recover to 100% functionality, contributing to ongoing pain and diminished performance. This, combined with a string of other serious injuries accumulated over nearly two decades, led to his decision to retire. In addition to physical ailments, Callihan has openly discussed his struggles with and an . He revealed suffering from bulimia for six years earlier in his career, stemming from weighing 340 pounds in his younger days and the pressures of maintaining a wrestler's physique. These issues persisted, as evidenced by a recent of nearly 60 pounds, which exacerbated his physical limitations and self-perception. Callihan's health challenges have also taken a profound mental toll, which he has addressed publicly to highlight the psychological demands of professional wrestling. Following his 2021 leg injury, he described entering a "dark place" marked by intense frustration, identity loss, and the difficulty of relearning basic movements while sidelined from the ring. He emphasized the mental strain of prolonged recovery, including physical therapy and the emotional weight of being unable to perform, stating, "It's mental – it's not being able to do what you're used to, it's relearning everything, it's trying to get out of your own head." By sharing these experiences in interviews, Callihan has advocated for greater awareness of mental health issues among wrestlers, particularly the isolation and self-doubt that accompany career-threatening injuries. His candor serves as a platform to encourage others in the industry to seek support and prioritize well-being beyond physical resilience.

Championships and accomplishments

Title history

Sami Callihan has captured numerous championships across independent, international, and major promotions throughout his professional wrestling career, establishing himself as a multi-time titleholder in hardcore and mainstream circuits. His reigns often highlight his brawling style, with victories in high-stakes matches such as steel cages and multi-person bouts.
PromotionTitleReign(s)Date WonDuration/Notes
Absolute Intense Wrestling (AIW)AIW Tag Team Championship (w/ Matt Riot)1March 21, 2008Defeated Nick Belushi and Super Oprah.
Insanity Pro Wrestling (IPW)IPW Junior Heavyweight Championship1August 2, 2008Defeated Billy Roc.
CZW Iron Man/New Horror Championship1February 14, 2009Defeated Brain Damage.
(w/ )1October 3, 2009Defeated Terry Frazier and Sha Samuels.
Force One Pro Wrestling (F1)F1 Heavyweight Championship1January 29, 2010Won in a 4-way match.
JAPW Tag Team Championship (w/ Chris Dickinson)1October 23, 2010Defeated Monsta Mack, , and in a 3-way tag match.
Pro Wrestling Syndicate (PWS)PWS Heavyweight Championship1May 27, 2011Defeated Devon Moore.
CZW World Junior Heavyweight Championship2November 12, 2011 (first reign)Defeated ; second reign details not specified.
IWC Super Indy Championship1June 23, 2012Defeated Facade.
Squared Circle Wrestling (2CW)2CW Heavyweight Championship1November 29, 2015Defeated Sean Carr.
All American Wrestling (AAW)2February 19, 2016 (first reign)Defeated ; second reign won December 29, 2018, defeating .
Fight Club: PRO (FCP)FCP Championship1July 8, 2016Defeated .
Pro Wrestling 2.0 (PW2.0)PW2.0 Heavyweight Championship1August 2, 2016Defeated Matt Palmer.
Rockstar Pro Wrestling2February 3, 2017 (first reign)Defeated Zachary Wentz; second reign details not specified.
HOG Crown Jewel Championship1June 9, 2018Defeated Evander James.
1August 1, 2018Won in a 3-way match.
(w/ Daga & Kobra Moon)1August 15, 2018Defeated Killshot, Son of Havoc, and .
A1 Outer Limits Championship1December 2, 2018Won in a .
Impact Wrestling1October 29, 2019Defeated in a steel cage match at Bound for Glory; held for 75 days until losing to on January 12, 2020, at .
Rockstar Pro WrestlingRockstar Pro Trios Championship (w/ & Dave Crist)1January 5, 2018Defeated Clayton Jackson, Myron Reed, and Zachary Wentz.
Callihan also held additional regional titles, including the CZW Ultraviolent Underground Championship, NWA Force 1 Heavyweight Championship, Premiere Wrestling Xperience Heavyweight Championship, and WrestleCircus Sideshow Championship, contributing to his total of over 20 championship reigns.

Major tournament wins

Sami Callihan's first major tournament victory came in the prestigious 16 Carat Gold Tournament, organized by (wXw) in Europe. Held from March 11 to 13, 2011, in , , the event featured 16 wrestlers in a single-elimination format. Callihan advanced through the bracket by defeating opponents including in the semifinals before capturing the title in the final match against Big Van Walter via submission, solidifying his reputation on the international independent scene. In 2012, Callihan achieved another significant accolade by winning Combat Zone Wrestling's (CZW) Best of the Best XI on April 14 in Voorhees, . This annual showcase event highlighted top independent talent in a 12-man single-elimination competition. Callihan progressed with victories over competitors such as Devon Moore and Kyle Matthews, culminating in a submission win over in the finals using his signature Stretch Muffler, earning him widespread recognition within the community. Callihan added to his tournament resume in 2018 with a win in the All American Wrestling (AAW) Jim Lynam Memorial Tournament, a singles competition honoring the late promoter . The third annual edition spanned –29 in , , featuring a 16-man bracket. He defeated notable entrants like in the first round and in the semifinals, before submitting ACH in the final to claim the victory and a $5,000 , further demonstrating his versatility across promotions.
TournamentYearPromotionFinal OpponentOutcome
16 Carat Gold Tournament2011wXwBig Van WalterSubmission victory
Best of the Best XI2012CZWSubmission victory (Stretch Muffler)
Jim Lynam Memorial Tournament2018AAWACHSubmission victory

Luchas de Apuestas record

Hair and mask matches

Sami Callihan's involvement in Luchas de Apuestas, the traditional wrestling where wrestlers risk personal stakes such as or , has been limited but significant, primarily occurring during his tenure as a top in independent promotions like . These high-stakes encounters emphasized his aggressive style and rivalries with prominent luchadores, culminating in losses that carried personal consequences for him while preserving his opponents' . His first documented Apuestas match took place on August 31, 2017, at AAW's Defining Moment event in Berwyn, Illinois, where he defended the AAW Heavyweight Championship against Rey Fénix in a title versus mask bout. The feud between Callihan and Fénix had built over months, with Callihan, accompanied by manager JT Davidson, portraying a ruthless champion targeting the high-flying luchador's identity. Fénix emerged victorious after 16 minutes and 56 seconds via a decisive roll-up pin, forcing Callihan to relinquish the championship but sparing Fénix's mask. This outcome marked a pivotal shift in AAW's landscape, elevating Fénix as the new titleholder without the added drama of unmasking. Callihan's second and most infamous Apuestas match occurred on July 22, 2018, at Impact Wrestling's Slammiversary XVI in Berwyn, Illinois, pitting his hair against Penta El Zero M's (Pentagón Jr.) mask. Stemming from a heated rivalry involving Callihan's oVe stable and the Lucha Brothers tag team, the no-disqualification match devolved into a brutal affair featuring weapons, dives, and near-falls, lasting over 20 minutes. Penta secured the win with a package piledriver, leading to Callihan's head being shaved post-match by Penta and Fénix in a ceremonial humiliation that underscored the personal stakes of Luchas de Apuestas. This event, broadcast on Impact's Pursuit channel, is often cited as one of Callihan's most physically taxing performances, highlighting his willingness to endure extreme violence for storyline progression.
DateEventOpponentStake (Callihan)Stake (Opponent)ResultLocation
Aug 31, 2017AAW Defining Moment 2017Rey FénixMaskLoss (title lost)Berwyn, IL, USA
Jul 22, 2018Impact Slammiversary XVIPenta El Zero MHairMaskLoss (hair shaved)Berwyn, IL, USA
No further Apuestas matches involving Callihan have been recorded as of November 2025, with his career shifting toward hardcore and multi-man stipulations in promotions like TNA Wrestling and MLW. These bouts remain emblematic of his crossover appeal in blending American with traditions.

References

  1. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=5726&name=Sami+Callihan
  2. https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1941584/former-impact-world-champion-sami-callihan-loses-officially-retires-tna-emergence/
  3. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-callihan-retires-at-tna-emergence/
  4. https://lastwordonsports.com/prowrestling/2025/08/16/sami-callihan-retires-from-in-ring-competition-at-tna-emergence-2025-everything-to-know/
  5. https://www.wrestlingdata.com/index.php?befehl=bios&wrestler=4126
  6. https://gerweck.net/2013/03/25/sami-callihan/
  7. https://mabumbe.com/people/sami-callihan-biography-age-career-relationships-net-worth/
  8. https://www.pwmania.com/30-yearsthe-cody-hawk-story
  9. https://www.postandcourier.com/sports/wrestling/les-thatcher-brings-decades-of-mastering-craft-to-wrestling-shrine/article_77015388-11f5-11ee-8e27-4b9b80439fb1.html
  10. https://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profile/sami-callihan/
  11. http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/supercards/usa/misc/iwa/strong.html
  12. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBxi3oc2Pag
  13. https://www.sportskeeda.com/impact-wrestling/5-things-may-not-know-about-sami-callihan
  14. https://www.thesportster.com/facts-trivia-things-impact-wrestling-sami-callihan/
  15. http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/sami-callihan-3458.html?year=2009
  16. http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/sami-callihan-3458.html?year=2010
  17. https://www.tpww.net/2013/04/full-evolve-19-ippv-results-04-05-13/
  18. https://insidepulse.com/2013/05/27/popular-independent-wrestler-confirmed-to-have-signed-with-wwe/
  19. https://www.wrestlingnewssource.com/news/29439/Report-Sami-Callihans-WWE-Signing-Imminent/
  20. https://www.twnpnews.com/2013/08/solomon-crowe-officially-debuts-wwe-nxt-aj-grants-first-wish/
  21. https://www.espn.com/wwe/story/_/id/20818305/sami-callihan-bet-leaving-wwe-finding-success-independently
  22. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/report-impact-wrestling-interested-sami-callihan
  23. https://411mania.com/wrestling/video-solomon-crowe-makes-his-wwe-nxt-debut/
  24. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-callihan-talks-about-his-time-nxt-why-he-left-wwe-and-why-he-believes-he-ll-be-back
  25. https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/2015-09-02
  26. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2568011-wwe-nxt-results-winners-grades-reaction-and-highlights-from-september-16
  27. https://uproxx.com/prowrestling/nxt-solomon-crowe-released/
  28. https://www.cagesideseats.com/indies-independent-wrestling-indy-promotions/2015/11/29/9813214/sami-callihan-first-post-wwe-nxt-appearance-a-return-to-aaw-in-chicago
  29. https://411mania.com/wrestling/sami-callahan-returns-to-independent-wrestling/
  30. http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/sami-callihan-3458.html?year=2016
  31. https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/06/56-aaw-results-callihan-vs-ciampa-aaw-hvt-title-colt-cabana-moose-r-fox-pentagon-jr-vs-fenix/
  32. https://m.facebook.com/AAWPro/photos/a.655501431206425/3082501768506367/
  33. https://gwhnewsandnotes.blogspot.com/2016/05/new-premiere-wrestling-xperience.html
  34. https://www.voicesofwrestling.com/2020/06/18/evolve-or-die-the-history-end-of-evolve-wrestling/
  35. https://slamwrestling.net/interviews/sami-callihan-now-knows-who-he-is/
  36. https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/12/31/1230-aaw-unstoppable-results-hero-vs-pentagon-jr-lovelace-vs-lee-aaw-farewell-callihan-vs-fenix-main-event/
  37. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-callihan-signs-multi-year-deal-impact-wrestling
  38. https://www.postwrestling.com/2021/01/01/sami-callihan-announces-new-multi-year-deal-with-impact/
  39. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-callihan-loses-hair-versus-mask-match-gets-his-head-shaved-pentagon-jr
  40. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/impact-wrestling-announces-sami-callihan-vs-fenix-street-fight-between-lax-and-ogs-and-more-next
  41. https://www.voicesofwrestling.com/2021/07/13/sami-callihan-and-the-slammiversary-main-event/
  42. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-callihan-wins-impact-world-title-brian-cage-impact-confronted-tessa-blanchard
  43. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/impact-wrestling-hard-kill-results-live-coverage-sami-callihan-vs-tessa-blanchard-ii
  44. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-callihan-vs-kenny-omega-impact-world-title-made-official-impact-slammiversary-2021
  45. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-callihan-says-he-will-be-tna-wrestling-foreseeable-future
  46. http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/sami-callihan-3458.html??prom_id=21&year=2017&sort=rev
  47. https://www.wrestlingdata.com/index.php?befehl=shows&show=358527&feld=ergebnisse
  48. http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/sami-callihan-3458.html?prom_id=27&year=2017
  49. https://watch.njpwworld.com/search/2017%252F11%252F23
  50. https://www.njpw1972.com/o16974
  51. https://www.reddit.com/r/SquaredCircle/comments/95ozmk/sami-callihan-vs_pentagon_jr_in_a_mexican_death/
  52. https://prowrestling.fandom.com/wiki/May_10%2C_2019_iMPACT%21_results
  53. https://mlw.com/sami-callihan/
  54. https://tv.apple.com/us/episode/defy-now--031518/umc.cmc.3h3yqvd1x8n1ka9cydog9pvnp
  55. https://mlw.com/2023/12/18/sami-callihan-returns-against-kojima-january-6-in-philly/
  56. http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/sami-callihan-3458.html
  57. https://www.postwrestling.com/2024/07/12/mlw-blood-thunder-results-sami-callihan-vs-matt-riddle-kenta-vs-bobby-fish/
  58. https://www.cagesideseats.com/2024/4/22/24136125/sami-callihan-returns-tna-chaotic-knockouts-championship-match-rebellion
  59. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVPhMJpjHnM
  60. https://www.ringsidenews.com/sami-callihans-status-tna-following-rebellion-return-revealed/
  61. https://www.reddit.com/r/SquaredCircle/comments/1h8aw4x/tna_impact_spoilers_good_hands_vs_sami_callihan/
  62. https://www.facebook.com/TNAWrestlingFB/videos/maclin-vs-sami-callihan-tna-impact-june-27-2024/705857628305029/
  63. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzyGZHm1WSk
  64. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kl6IBu23NC0
  65. https://www.postwrestling.com/2025/04/10/sami-callihan-vs-mance-warner-in-barbed-wire-massacre-match-set-for-tna-unbreakable/
  66. https://www.cagesideseats.com/2025/4/10/24405869/barbed-wire-massacre-returns-tna-unbreakable-sami-callihan-mance-warner-updated-match-card
  67. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-callihan-and-mance-warner-shake-hands-tna-impact-live-say-their-feud-done-now/
  68. https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/other/sami-callihan-is-considering-retirement-from-tna/ar-AA1JGRI9
  69. https://www.postwrestling.com/2025/08/15/sami-callihan-announces-retirement-at-tna-emergence-2025/
  70. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Yb7-olgLWw
  71. https://x.com/TheSamiCallihan/status/1956532287647969684
  72. https://www.anthemse.com/post/sami-callihan-retires-at-tna-emergence-2025
  73. https://www.wrestlezone.com/news/1319768-sami-callihan-wrestling-revolver-is-a-buffet-of-pro-wrestling-weve-got-every-flavor
  74. https://www.prowrestlingrevolver.com/debutshow
  75. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=8&nr=1779
  76. https://www.instagram.com/p/DN3pZ_fXBZn/
  77. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=8&nr=1779&page=4
  78. https://cultaholic.com/posts/jon-moxley-and-sami-callihan-to-face-the-wolves-at-wrestling-revolver-event
  79. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/jon-moxley-and-sami-callihan-reunite-wrestling-revolver-july/
  80. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/wrestling-revolver-mayhem-all-results-56-jon-moxley-sami-callihan-trey-miguel-and-more/
  81. https://www.prowrestlingrevolver.com/
  82. https://ewrestling.com/article/sami-callihan-discusses-how-acting-debate-and-public-speaking-helped-him-become-wrestler/
  83. https://slamwrestling.net/interviews/sami-callihan-bound-to-do-the-unexpected/
  84. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt18959260/
  85. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1p9yqf5C0s
  86. https://shows.acast.com/cultaholic/episodes/exclusive-interview-sami-callihan-on-leaving-impact-and-futu
  87. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcSuRkMpYjk
  88. https://www.youtube.com/c/WrestlingREVOLVER/playlists
  89. https://x.com/TheSamiCallihan
  90. https://www.twitch.tv/realsamicallihan
  91. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpeLPdwQ6L8
  92. https://wrestlingheadlines.com/jessicka-havok-opens-up-on-her-relationship-with-sami-callihan/
  93. https://www.f4wonline.com/news/impact-wrestling/impacts-sami-callihan-havok-announce-engagement-344746/
  94. https://www.ewrestlingnews.com/editorial/112-wrestling-couples-together-in-real-life
  95. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-callihan-provides-medical-update-recalls-events-preceding-his-injury
  96. https://metro.co.uk/2022/09/23/impact-wrestling-sami-callihan-on-mental-toll-of-vicious-leg-break-17438519/
  97. https://www.sescoops.com/news/tna/sami-callihan-retirement-tna-wrestling-update/
  98. https://www.cagesideseats.com/2025/7/31/24478686/sami-callihan-considering-retirement-tna-emergence-angle-match-vs-mike-santana-aug-15-baltimore
  99. https://www.thesmackdownhotel.com/wrestlers/sami-callihan
  100. https://watch.tnawrestling.com/video/674463
  101. https://lastwordonsports.com/prowrestling/2018/02/22/twelve-years-of-wxw-16-carat-gold/
  102. https://www.wrestleview.com/indy-news/31903-4-14-czw-best-of-the-best-xi-results-in-new-jersey/
  103. https://lastwordonsports.com/prowrestling/2018/09/30/sami-callihan-wins-2018-jim-lynam-memorial-tournament/
  104. https://www.voicesofwrestling.com/2017/10/10/aaw-defining-moment-august-31-results-review/
  105. https://www.wrestlezone.com/news/880479-aaw-defining-moment-2017-results-mask-vs-title-cody-rhodes-debuts-in-berwyn-matt-riddle-vs-shane-strickland-oi4k-more
  106. https://www.voicesofwrestling.com/2018/07/23/impact-wrestling-slammiversary-xvi-july-22-results-review/
  107. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=5726
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