Frankie Kazarian Celebrates 20th Anniversary Of His IMPACT Wrestling Debut
Yesterday marked the 20-year anniversary of Frankie Kazarian's debut in IMPACT Wrestling (then known as Total Nonstop Action Wrestling). On June 4, 2003, 25-year-old Kazarian made his way to the Tennessee State Fairgrounds to compete in a six-man tag team match. There, he partnered with CM Punk and Matt Stryker to defeat the team of Damien Dothar, Johnny Swinger, and Kid Romeo.
Over the next few weeks, Kazarian began chasing the X-Division Championship, which was held by Chris Sabin at the time. In August 2003, Kazarian challenged for the title in the first ever Ultimate X match which featured himself, Sabin, and Michael Shane. Shane would walk away as the new X-Division Champion.
20 years later, Kazarian remains one of IMPACT's most decorated legends, with five reigns as X-Division Champion and three reigns with the IMPACT Tag Team Championships. Reflecting back on his debut, Kazarian is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the IMPACT family.
"20 years ago. Incredible to think. It’s been a ride like I could have never imagined. And now, so much more to do in @IMPACTWRESTLING. Grateful to be in this company, and share this locker room with these incredible men and women. Thank you to all that have been on the journey," he tweeted.
Earlier this year, Kazarian revealed that he had left AEW to officially re-join the IMPACT roster. Since making that announcement at the Hard to Kill pay-per-view, Kazarian has been involved in various feuds, and most recently competed in a six-way match to determine to the number contender to Steve Maclin's IMPACT World Championship. That match was won by Alex Shelley.
