Alex Hammerstone Set for Battle Riot VIII
Alex Hammerstone is gearing up to try and win the second-ever Battle Riot match in the history of Major League Wrestling (MLW). He previously won the event back in 2021, which had 41 participants. Entering the ring as the 35th contestant, he ultimately emerged victorious. That victory paved the way for his later win over Jacob Fatu, securing the MLW World Heavyweight Championship.
MLW recently confirmed Hammerstone’s participation in Battle Riot VIII, scheduled for January 29th at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida. This announcement has generated some buzz among fans and the wrestling community.
“The goal is to win,” Hammerstone explained in a recent interview. “I had won once before, and that victory, well, it ultimately led to my becoming MLW World Champion. A huge highlight of my career, for sure. Even though I’m back with MLW, I’m not coming back just to float along. I want to be at the top again, and if Battle Riot can get me there, then that’s what I aim for.”
After a few years with TNA Wrestling, Hammerstone made a surprise comeback to MLW during this year’s Battle Riot in April. He mentioned how gratifying it was to feel the crowd’s positive energy upon his return. “In wrestling, there’s always that question: ‘What have you done for me lately?’ I was really worried about how fans might react, considering the injuries and surgeries I went through. But feeling that love and excitement from them? That was incredibly rewarding.”
He’s been in the wrestling business since 2013 and began his journey with MLW in 2019. Hammerstone was part of The Dynasty alongside Richard Holliday and Maxwell Jacob Friedman. He also had a stint in Japan with Pro Wrestling Noah, and his time in TNA was productive.
However, injuries hampered some of his progress, creating doubts about his ability to stay fit. Hammerstone shared the challenges he faced during this period. “It’s tough—I’ve had my heart broken many times. But I keep pushing through. I know what I’ve done for this industry, and that motivates me. Even when outside noise tries to bring me down, my determination stays strong.”
Currently 34, Hammerstone’s resilience and skills put him in a strong position to challenge Mats Kruel-Kruger’s MLW World Heavyweight Championship. He has faith in MLW’s role in the wrestling world and shared his thoughts on the company’s journey.
“It wouldn’t be quite right to call them an underdog promotion. They didn’t start off with billionaire backing or instant TV deals. Everyone here has put in the work to carve a niche for themselves in this industry. I think that really resonates with fans and wrestlers alike. MLW is a respectable place to work.”
