Chris Sabin Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / September 16, 2024
Chris Sabin Then
Joshua Harter, better known in the wrestling world as Chris Sabin, was born on February 4, 1982, in Pinckney, Michigan.
His journey into professional wrestling began with training at the NWA Great Lakes Pro Wrestling School in his home state.
However, when the school encountered difficulties, Harter sought further instruction at the Can-Am Wrestling School in Windsor, Ontario.
There, he was mentored by Scott D’Amore and “Amazing” N8 Mattson, honing his skills and preparing for his professional debut.
After just four months of intensive training, he adopted the ring name Chris Sabin and embarked on his wrestling career in 2000, initially performing for D’Amore’s Border City Wrestling and other independent promotions in Michigan.
Chris Sabin Wrestling Career
Chris Sabin’s wrestling career took off rapidly after his debut. He first gained significant attention by joining Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) in 2003, where he quickly captured the TNA X Division Championship just a month into his tenure.
Sabin’s early success in TNA was marked by his heel turn and subsequent involvement with the faction Sports Entertainment Xtreme.
His innovative style and high-flying maneuvers helped him stand out in the X Division, where he became a notable figure.
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Throughout his career, Sabin has achieved considerable success in various wrestling promotions.
He became known for his tag team prowess, particularly as one-half of the Motor City Machine Guns with Alex Shelley.
The duo’s chemistry and skill earned them multiple championships, including the TNA World Tag Team titles and the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team titles in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW).
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Sabin’s career also includes significant stints with Ring of Honor (ROH), where he won the ROH World Tag Team Championship and participated in notable feuds and matches.
Sabin’s career has been marked by both his championship wins and his resilience in overcoming injuries.
His return to Impact Wrestling in 2019 and subsequent in-ring performances showcased his enduring talent and dedication to the sport.
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Chris Sabin Wrestling Competition
- Border City Wrestling (BCW)
- Can-Am Wrestling School (Training)
- Ring of Honor (ROH)
- Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG)
- ZERO-1 MAX
- New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW)
- Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA)/Impact Wrestling
- All Elite Wrestling (AEW)
Chris Sabin Now
As of 2024, Chris Sabin is 42 years old and currently signed to WWE, where he continues to make an impact in the wrestling world.
Although best known for his tenure in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), where he gained significant recognition and acclaim, Sabin has expanded his career to new heights.
His journey in wrestling is marked by his return to Impact Wrestling in March 2019, where he initially came back as a producer while recovering from an ACL injury.
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This role allowed him to contribute behind the scenes and mentor upcoming talent, showcasing his deep understanding of the wrestling industry.
In addition to his in-ring accomplishments, Sabin’s influence extends to the world of video games.
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He has been featured in several wrestling video games, including “TNA IMPACT!”, “TNA Impact!: Cross the Line,” and “TNA Wrestling Impact!” These appearances underscore his popularity and enduring legacy within the wrestling community.
His current involvement with WWE represents the latest chapter in a career that has spanned multiple wrestling promotions and solidified his status as a prominent figure in the sport.
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FAQs
The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley) disbanded in 2018 when Shelley announced his retirement from active competition.
They reunited later but have since had various appearances and matches across different promotions.
They have had multiple stints in TNA/Impact Wrestling but left the promotion in early 2019.
They returned for brief appearances before rejoining in 2020. Their status can vary based on ongoing storylines and contract negotiations.
Chris Sabin first joined TNA in April 2003. He has had several runs with the company, with his most recent return starting in 2019.
The Motor City Machine Guns are Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley.
Chris Sabin is currently signed to WWE, where he continues his wrestling career.
Chris Sabin, born February 4, 1982, is 42 years old. Alex Shelley, born May 23, 1983, is 41 years old.
Chris Sabin points at his hand as part of his signature move, the “Cradle Shock,” to emphasize the finishing move and add theatrical flair to his wrestling persona.