Steve Maclin reflects on winning the IMPACT World Championship.
At IMPACT Rebellion, Maclin defeated KUSHIDA to win the vacant title. Maclin was initially scheduled to challenge reigning champion Josh Alexander for the title, but a triceps tear forced Alexander to relinquish the injury. As a result, Maclin instead faced KUSHIDA in a match to crown a new champion, and the man once known as Steve Cutler of the Forgotten Sons emerged victorious.
Speaking with Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, Maclin shared his thoughts in the aftermath of his victory. He reflected on his journey to this point and noted that he tries to earn every day.
“From dirt holes in Afghanistan to winning the Impact world title, this is something I’ll hold on to. A lot of my brothers there told me I was going to be an action figure one day, that I’d become a pro wrestler. To me, it was just a dream. It taught me the importance of earning life. There are brothers that aren’t here anymore. I try to earn every day. That’s my approach in life, and it’s no different in the ring," Maclin said.
Looking back on his road to the world title, Maclin emphasized that he was never a chosen one, but he worked hard and kept grinding. With the world title on his shoulder, Maclin made it clear that the milestone victory was only the beginning. Moving forward, he intends to keep proving people wrong, even after the title win.
“I was never a chosen one. I came to Impact and I’ve worked my ass off. I kept my head down, I kept grinding, and this is only the beginning. The easy work is over. Now the head work begins. Whether you believe in me or not, I’m out there proving people wrong. That’s the way it’s always been, and it’s not going to change now," Maclin said.
Maclin also pointed out that IMPACT Rebellion was a particularly special night, as his wife, Denna Purrazzo, took home some gold as well. Purrazzo defeated Jordynne Grace in the main event to win the vacant IMPACT Knockouts World Championship.
“This is a night I won’t forget. It’s even more incredible that my wife won the women’s title. It’s a hell of a way to start a rebellion," Maclin said.
Check out Fightful's new interview with Deonna Purrazzo here.
Catch up on our coverage of IMPACT Rebellion here.
