Introduction to Impact Championship Belts
Impact Championship Belts represent a significant chapter in professional wrestling history, embodying the legacy and evolution of Impact Wrestling. Known for its exciting matches and dynamic talent roster, Impact Wrestling (formerly TNA) has crafted several iconic championship belts over the years. This collection page explores the history, design, and impact of each championship belt, offering a comprehensive look at these prestigious titles.
The Birth of Impact Wrestling and Its First Championship Belt
Origins and Foundation
Impact Wrestling, originally known as Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling, was founded in 2002. It aimed to provide wrestling fans with an alternative to mainstream promotions. The first Impact Championship Belt introduced in 2002 was a symbol of the promotion's ambition and vision. Designed with a classic aesthetic, this belt represented the top prize in Impact Wrestling and set the stage for future championships.
Early Design and Features
The initial Impact Championship Belt featured a traditional design with a central gold plate and leather strap. Its design was straightforward but impactful, reflecting the promotion's early focus on establishing itself in the wrestling industry. Over time, this belt would evolve, but its introduction marked the beginning of a rich legacy.
The Impact World Heavyweight Championship Belt
Evolution of the Design
The Impact World Heavyweight Championship Belt is one of the most prestigious titles in the promotion. Introduced in 2007, this belt has undergone several design changes, each reflecting the evolving nature of Impact Wrestling. The original design featured a classic gold plate, while later iterations incorporated modern elements and intricate detailing, such as additional side plates and a larger central plate.
Iconic Champions
Throughout its history, the Impact World Heavyweight Championship has been held by some of the biggest names in wrestling. From AJ Styles and Samoa Joe to Kurt Angle and Sting, the list of champions is a testament to the belt's significance. Each champion brought their own style and legacy to the title, contributing to its storied history and prestige.
The Impact X Division Championship Belt
Concept and Design
The Impact X Division Championship Belt, introduced in 2002, celebrates the high-flying and innovative style of Impact Wrestling's X Division. Known for its sleek and modern design, this belt features a silver and gold aesthetic with a distinctive central plate. The X Division Championship represents athleticism and excitement, capturing the essence of the division it represents.
Notable Champions
The X Division Championship has been held by numerous talented wrestlers, including Chris Sabin, Jay Lethal, and Petey Williams. Each champion has showcased their unique skills and contributed to the belt's reputation as a symbol of high-impact wrestling and exceptional talent.
The Impact Knockouts Championship Belt
Introduction and Design
The Impact Knockouts Championship Belt was introduced in 2007, representing the pinnacle of women's wrestling in Impact Wrestling. With its elegant and detailed design, the Knockouts Championship highlights the strength and skill of the women who have held it. The belt’s design includes intricate patterns and a refined look, celebrating the achievements of female wrestlers in the promotion.
Prominent Knockouts Champions
The Knockouts Championship has been held by many standout female wrestlers, including Gail Kim, Awesome Kong, and Mickie James. Each champion has played a crucial role in elevating the women's division and enhancing the belt's prestige through their exceptional performances and contributions.
The Impact Global Championship Belt
Design and Significance
The Impact Global Championship Belt, introduced in 2008, was designed to reflect the international scope of Impact Wrestling's audience. Featuring a bold globe emblem and a mix of traditional and modern elements, the Global Championship represents the promotion’s global reach and diverse talent pool. The belt’s design incorporates elements that symbolize the international nature of the championship.
Noteworthy Holders
The Global Championship has been held by a variety of wrestlers, including Rob Terry, Eric Young, and Matt Morgan. Each champion contributed to the belt's legacy by showcasing their skills and expanding the championship's global appeal, further cementing its place in Impact Wrestling history.
The Impact Television Championship Belt
Origin and Design
The Impact Television Championship Belt was introduced in 2008 to provide an additional platform for showcasing the talents of Impact Wrestling’s roster on a weekly basis. The belt features a design that incorporates classic television aesthetics, highlighting the importance of television in bringing wrestling to a wider audience. Its design reflects the promotion's commitment to delivering engaging content.
Memorable Champions
The Television Championship has been held by several notable wrestlers, including Samoa Joe, Jay Lethal, and Robbie E. Each champion has contributed to the belt's legacy by delivering exciting matches and showcasing their talents, enhancing the championship's prestige and appeal.
The Impact Tag Team Championship Belts
History and Evolution
The Impact Tag Team Championship Belts have been a fundamental part of the promotion since its inception. Over the years, the design of these belts has evolved, reflecting the growth and development of the tag team division. From the original gold-plated belts to more recent designs, the tag team championships have always symbolized teamwork and excellence.
Celebrated Tag Teams
The Impact Tag Team Championship has been held by numerous iconic teams, including The Motor City Machine Guns, The Hardys, and Beer Money, Inc. Each team has made a significant impact on the division, delivering memorable matches and contributing to the belt's rich history and prestige.
The Impact World Tag Team Championship Belts
Design and Legacy
The Impact World Tag Team Championship Belts represent the pinnacle of tag team competition within the promotion. Featuring a bold and imposing design, these belts are a testament to the importance of tag team wrestling in Impact Wrestling. The design reflects the prestige and history of the tag team division, celebrating the accomplishments of the top teams.
Legendary Champions
Throughout its history, the Impact World Tag Team Championship has been held by some of the most legendary teams in wrestling, including The Dudley Boyz, The Lucha Brothers, and The Wolves. Each team has contributed to the legacy of the belts by showcasing their skills and chemistry in high-stakes matches.
The Impact Legends Championship Belt
Concept and Design
The Impact Legends Championship Belt, introduced in 2008, was created to honor the legends of wrestling while providing a new challenge for Impact Wrestling’s stars. Featuring a distinctive globe emblem and a unique design, the Legends Championship bridges the gap between the promotion’s past and future. The belt’s design pays homage to the history of professional wrestling while embracing Impact Wrestling's identity.
Noteworthy Holders
The Legends Championship has been held by several prominent wrestlers, including Booker T, Abyss, and Eric Young. Each champion has contributed to the belt’s legacy by showcasing their talents and enhancing its prestige through memorable performances and rivalries.
The Impact World Heavyweight Championship (Second Design)
Evolution and Design Changes
The second design of the Impact World Heavyweight Championship Belt, introduced in 2013, marked a significant evolution from the original design. With a more modern and sleek appearance, this version of the belt featured updated side plates and a larger center plate, reflecting the promotion's growth and changing landscape. The design changes emphasized the evolving nature of Impact Wrestling and its expanding global presence.
Impactful Champions
This iteration of the World Heavyweight Championship has been held by notable wrestlers, including Magnus, EC3, and Alberto El Patron. Each champion brought their unique style and contributed to the belt's legacy, further establishing its status as one of the most prestigious titles in professional wrestling.
The Impact Grand Championship Belt
Introduction and Design
The Impact Grand Championship Belt, introduced in 2016, was designed to add a new dimension to Impact Wrestling's championship landscape. Featuring a unique octagonal center plate and a mix of classic and modern design elements, the Grand Championship represents a new era for the promotion. Its design reflects Impact Wrestling’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
Prominent Holders
The Grand Championship has been held by several notable wrestlers, including Drew Galloway, Eli Drake, and Moose. Each champion has contributed to the belt's legacy by showcasing their skills and competing in high-stakes matches, enhancing its prestige and impact.
Collecting Impact Championship Belts
Why Collect Impact Belts?
Collecting Impact Championship Belts provides fans and collectors with a unique opportunity to own a piece of wrestling history. Each belt represents a significant chapter in the promotion’s legacy and offers a tangible connection to the moments and champions that have defined Impact Wrestling.
Tips for Collectors
When collecting Impact Championship Belts, it’s important to consider factors such as authenticity, design, and condition. Authentic belts, especially those used in matches or held by notable champions, can be highly valuable. Ensuring that each belt is well-maintained and in good condition will help preserve its value and significance in the world of professional wrestling.
Conclusion: Celebrating the Legacy of Impact Championship Belts
The Impact Championship Belt collection is a testament to the promotion's rich history and the many memorable moments it has produced. From its early days to its evolution over the years, each belt represents a unique chapter in the story of Impact Wrestling. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new collector, these belts offer a valuable glimpse into the world of Impact Wrestling and its remarkable legacy.
