Recently in conversation with Justin Barrasso for a new interview with Sports Illustrated, new Impact Wrestling World Champion Steve Maclin discussed his title win at Rebellion this past Sunday night and how he has scratched and clawed his way up there. He said,
”From dirt holes in Afghanistan to winning the Impact world title, this is something I’ll hold on to. I was never a chosen one. I came to Impact, and I’ve worked my a*s 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.”
He also shared his thoughts on his opponent at Rebellion, KUSHIDA. He said,
“He’s a hard-hitting son of a b****. It was an honor to share the ring with Kushida. He’s a great opponent. But that moment was mine.”
While Maclin won the vacant World Title at Rebellion, Deonna Purrazzo, his wife, also won the vacant Impact Wrestling Knockouts World Championship at the event.