Claudio Castagnoli Tops Josh Alexander in AEW Collision Showdown

Josh Alexander AEW match
Josh Alexander battles Claudio Castagnoli in intense AEW match. [Image Source: CLOUDFRONT]
AEW

On the recent episode of AEW Collision, Claudio Castagnoli defended his CMLL World Heavyweight Championship against Josh Alexander in a hard-fought match. Castagnoli’s victory continued his 86-day reign, which began when he won the title from Gran Guerrero in November 2025.

Key Moments and Interference Impacting the Match

In the final stage of the bout, Castagnoli attempted to secure the win with his signature Gotch Style Neutralizer. Unexpectedly, Lance Archer appeared on the apron, threatening to disrupt the match for Alexander. However, Marina Shafir stepped in to protect her Death Riders stablemate by confronting Archer, allowing Castagnoli to counterattack.

Seizing the opportunity, Castagnoli delivered a Pump Kick to Archer, neutralizing the interference. Alexander responded with a powerful German Suplex, showing his resilience. Despite this, Castagnoli recovered and ultimately succeeded with a Giant Swing followed by the Neutralizer to retain the championship.

Overview of Castagnoli’s Championship Reign and Defenses

Since capturing the CMLL World Heavyweight Championship from Gran Guerrero, Claudio Castagnoli has defended the belt against notable challengers such as Ultimo Guerrero, Roderick Strong, Xelhua, and now Josh Alexander. His steady defense solidifies his position as a dominant champion within AEW’s competitive landscape.

Public and AEW Reactions to the Match

AEW highlighted this contest as a clash between two formidable wrestlers, referring to Castagnoli as the “ever imposing” champion and Alexander as the “Walking Weapon.” The promotion emphasized the intensity and strength demonstrated during the match through various social media updates that captured key moments, including Castagnoli’s high-flying moves and Alexander driving Castagnoli’s knee into steel steps.

Josh Alexander
Image of: Josh Alexander

The ever imposing @ClaudioCSRO defends his CMLL World Heavyweight Championship against the @Walking_Weapon, Josh Alexander!
Watch #AEWCollision LIVE on TNT & HBO Max pic.twitter.com/4CAZIkKr66
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) February 22, 2026

What a match in strength for @ClaudioCSRO is @Walking_Weapon!
Watch #AEWCollision LIVE on TNT & HBO Max pic.twitter.com/IrUoSGXAdl
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) February 22, 2026

.@ClaudioCSRO takes to the air!
Watch #AEWCollision LIVE on TNT & HBO Max pic.twitter.com/wiK7HtNrew
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) February 22, 2026

The @Walking_Weapon DRIVES @ClaudioCSRO’s knee into the steel steps!
Watch #AEWCollision LIVE on TNT & HBO Max pic.twitter.com/ktlZXnvoHd
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) February 22, 2026

.@ClaudioCSRO grabbing @Walking_Weapon like he was a feather!
Watch #AEWCollision LIVE on TNT & HBO Max pic.twitter.com/qLS6Rs09nJ
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) February 22, 2026

ELEVATED UPPERCUT FINDS THE MARK!
Watch #AEWCollision LIVE on TNT & HBO Max pic.twitter.com/V2qO3hclbx
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) February 22, 2026

Giant Swing + Neutralizer Combination gets @ClaudioCSRO the win!
Watch #AEWCollision LIVE on TNT & HBO Max pic.twitter.com/N8k3ai5CuT
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) February 22, 2026

What the Victory Means for AEW and the Competitors

This successful defense furthers Claudio Castagnoli’s standing as a resilient champion within AEW and the wider professional wrestling scene. His ability to overcome interference and a strong opponent like Josh Alexander reinforces his status. For Alexander, the match offered a display of toughness and skill, which is likely to lead to future high-profile opportunities in AEW.

The continuing rivalry involving the Death Riders faction, with Lance Archer and Marina Shafir playing critical roles, adds complexity to upcoming storylines. The evolving dynamics around Castagnoli’s reign and challengers such as Alexander ensure that AEW Collision remains a platform for intense competition and intrigue.

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Thomas Schultz
Thomas Schultz
Thomas Schultz is a journalist at CynicalTimes.org, covering the AEW Men’s Division. With one year of experience, he reports on match results, storyline developments, and the rising stars shaping All Elite Wrestling. Thomas brings a fresh perspective and a commitment to accurate, engaging coverage of AEW’s top talent and weekly action. His writing captures the energy, rivalries, and momentum behind one of wrestling’s fastest-growing promotions. From major title bouts to emerging contenders, Thomas keeps fans up to date on everything happening in the AEW men’s roster.