7 Ups & 3 Downs From IMPACT Wrestling (18 Nov)
2. Maclin Makes It Three
Steve Maclin vs. Laredo Kid was a vastly different contest to what we're used to seeing from the former - and it worked to great avail.
Built from Maclin's disdain for seeing Trey Miguel thrive as X Division Champion, he wrestled a faster style than is traditional for him. He was quick on his feet, turning instantly when Laredo Kid thought he'd gotten the better of him, and evading Laredo's offence and counters at times. When he attempted his Caught In The Crosshairs corner Spear, Laredo dodged it; Maclin slid out under the ropes, rather than crashing into the ring post. It was a small touch that really got over the importance of the match for the former Steve Cutler.
The AAA World Cruiserweight Champion was his usual high-flying self, executing a gorgeous Tope con Hilo, but Steve Maclin was needed for Turning Point's X Division Title outing. Miguel vs. Laredo would have easily been a sublime contest worthy of the title in question, but now, the addition of Maclin creates this rift in the match that could, ultimately, be a deciding factor.
Maclin is on the run of his career in IMPACT. Winning, losing, or drawing doesn't matter for him, so long as he delivers these performances consistently.