At IMPACT Wrestling Rebellion, Josh Alexander won the X-Division Championship to cement himself as a legitimate singles competitor.
For several years, Alexander had been associated with Ethan Page as The North, a highly successful tag team. But Page’s departure put Alexander in a sink or swim situation, as he had to transition into his new role as an individual wrestler. His win on Sunday night might have been the culmination of this new solo run, but Alexander has been waiting to show everyone what he can do by himself.
In an interview with Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, Alexander explained that his success before he signed with IMPACT Wrestling speaks for itself; he’s much more than the typical tag team specialist some fans had assumed he was.
“This is me solidifying my spot in the pro wrestling landscape as a singles competitor,” said Alexander. “I’ve been known for being part of a tag team because of all the success The North had, but I also had 14 years on the independent circuit before I came to Impact. I always knew I had this within me—that when the pressure was on, I’d rise to the occasion.”
It’s fitting that Alexander’s first singles title in IMPACT Wrestling is the X-Division Championship, as the same title has been a stepping stone for living legends like AJ Styles, Samoa Joe and many other stars. The division has often been lauded for its exemplary matches, and Alexander stated that he’s looking forward to following that legacy of excellence.
“This [win] was my chance to establish myself in a division that revolutionized the pro wrestling business,” said Alexander. “AJ Styles, Low Ki, Amazing Red, Samoa Joe, they all found their success in the X Division, and they were always the match of the night. I would like to return the X Division to its glory.
“This is the workhorse division. I’m going to bust my ass and try to steal every show I’m on.”
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