Alex Koslov, Moldovan-American wrestler
Alex Koslov: A Multifaceted Career in Professional Wrestling and Commentary
Alex Sherman, known widely by his ring name Alex Koslov, is a Moldovan-born figure who has made a significant impact across the global professional wrestling landscape, transitioning from a dynamic in-ring performer to a respected color commentator. Born on January 21, 1984, Sherman has established a career defined by diverse experiences in major promotions in Mexico, the United States, and Japan. While now recognized as a retired professional wrestler, he continues to contribute to the sport, currently working as a color commentator for the prestigious New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) promotion.
Dominance in Mexican Lucha Libre (2005-2010)
Koslov's professional wrestling journey truly began to flourish in Mexico, a country renowned for its vibrant lucha libre tradition. From 2005 until 2008, he was a prominent figure within Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL), one of the oldest and most established professional wrestling promotions globally, known for its deep-rooted history and traditional lucha libre style. His tenure there showcased his agility and unique in-ring style.
In October 2008, Alex Koslov made a surprising and highly publicized jump to CMLL's long-standing rival promotion, Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (AAA). This move was particularly notable in the competitive landscape of Mexican wrestling, as such direct transitions between the two major companies often create significant buzz and storylines. During his two-year stint with AAA, which concluded in October 2010, Koslov solidified his championship pedigree:
- He became a two-time AAA Cruiserweight Champion, a title typically contested by wrestlers known for their speed and high-flying maneuvers.
- He also captured the AAA World Mixed Tag Team Championship once, forming a successful partnership with Christina Von Eerie. This championship emphasizes teamwork and often features unique intergender matchups.
Forging a Path in North America: WWE and the Independent Circuit
Following his successful run in Mexico, Sherman signed with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), the largest professional wrestling promotion in the world, in August 2010. During his time with WWE, which lasted until February 2012, he was assigned to their developmental territory, Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW). Developmental territories serve as crucial training grounds, allowing talent to refine their skills, adapt to the WWE style, and prepare for potential main roster opportunities. Under the ring name Peter Orlov, Sherman gained valuable experience within the WWE system, though he did not make it to their main roster.
Upon his release from WWE, Sherman resumed working on the vibrant American independent circuit. This network of smaller, regional promotions provides a platform for wrestlers to hone their craft, experiment with new characters, and gain exposure. He competed for notable promotions such as Empire Wrestling Federation (EWF) and Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG), the latter being highly regarded for its high-octane matches and independent wrestling showcases. During this period, he also made his significant debut for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), marking the beginning of his influential presence in Japan.
Tag Team Excellence: Forever Hooligans
One of the most impactful phases of Alex Sherman's career came with the formation of the highly successful tag team, Forever Hooligans, alongside veteran wrestler Rocky Romero. This partnership proved to be a dominant force, particularly in New Japan Pro-Wrestling and Ring of Honor (ROH), two of the most respected promotions globally known for their strong in-ring competition and compelling tag team divisions. The Forever Hooligans achieved significant championship success:
- They captured the prestigious IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship twice in NJPW. This title is highly coveted and contested by some of the most agile and technically skilled tag teams in the world.
- They also held the ROH World Tag Team Championship once, a testament to their ability to compete at the highest level across different major promotions and solidify their status as one of the premier tag teams of their era.
These tag team accomplishments cemented Alex Koslov's legacy as a talented and adaptable performer capable of achieving championship success on an international scale.
Current Endeavors: A Voice in New Japan Pro-Wrestling
Having retired from active competition, Alex Sherman now leverages his extensive in-ring experience and deep understanding of professional wrestling as a color commentator for New Japan Pro-Wrestling. In this role, often working under his Alex Koslov persona, he provides expert analysis, commentary, and insights during NJPW events, enriching the viewing experience for fans worldwide. His transition from an active wrestler to a commentator highlights his continued dedication to the sport and his ability to contribute in various capacities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alex Sherman (Alex Koslov)
- Who is Alex Sherman?
- Alex Sherman is a Moldovan-born retired professional wrestler and current color commentator, widely recognized by his ring name, Alex Koslov. He is known for his extensive career in major promotions across Mexico, the United States, and Japan.
- What is Alex Koslov's current role in professional wrestling?
- Alex Koslov is currently working as a color commentator for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), providing expert analysis and insight for their events.
- Which major promotions did Alex Koslov wrestle for?
- Alex Koslov wrestled for prominent promotions including Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL) and Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (AAA) in Mexico, WWE's developmental territory Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW) in the United States, and New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and Ring of Honor (ROH) as part of the Forever Hooligans tag team.
- What championships did Alex Koslov win in AAA?
- In AAA, Alex Koslov held the AAA Cruiserweight Championship twice and the AAA World Mixed Tag Team Championship once with Christina Von Eerie.
- Who was Alex Koslov's tag team partner in Forever Hooligans, and what titles did they win?
- Alex Koslov's tag team partner in Forever Hooligans was Rocky Romero. Together, they won the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship twice in NJPW and the ROH World Tag Team Championship once.
- What was Alex Sherman's ring name in WWE's developmental system?
- During his time with WWE's developmental territory, Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), Alex Sherman competed under the ring name Peter Orlov.