Kazuchika Okada debuted in August 2004 as a member of the Toryumon Mexico roster, part of the class of aspiring wrestlers taught by Ultimo Dragon. In December 2005, Okada won the Young Dragons Cup, a tournament meant to showcase the Dragon Gym's young trainees. As a member of Toryumon Mexico, Okada toured the United States, working dates with independent promotions such as UWA Hardcore Wrestling and CHIKARA. On October 28, 2006, Okada received his first title shot, teaming with his teacher against the team of Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin, for the NWA International Lightweight Tag Team Championship. The pair were unsuccessful in their title challenge.

Referees, commentators and ring announcers exist in the gray area of pro wrestling industry professionals who aren’t “the office” or “the boys.” Although “on screen” talent, they don’t get to capitalize on the benefits of merchandise tie ins. Despite this Jeffrey Scott has thrived in both selling merch and as a ring announcer for Impact!. But not in the ways most would think.

Referees, commentators and ring announcers exist in the gray area of pro wrestling industry professionals who aren’t “the office” or “the boys.” Although “on screen” talent, they don’t get to capitalize on the benefits of merchandise tie ins. Despite this Jeffrey Scott has thrived in both selling merch and as a ring announcer for Impact!. But not in the ways most would think.