Xavier (wrestler)

John Jirus is an American professional wrestler, better known by his ring name, Xavier. He is perhaps best known for his appearances with Ring of Honor between 2002 and 2004, where he was the second ROH Champion.

Professional wrestling career

Jirus trained under Tony DeVito before debuting in 1997. He wrestled for various independent promotions in New York City, adopting the ring name "Xavier", before joining Ring of Honor (ROH) in 2002.

Ring of Honor (2002-2004, 2006, 2007)

Xavier appeared on the first ever ROH show, The Era of Honor Begins, on February 23, 2002, defeating Scoot Andrews. Throughout the following months, Xavier feuded with Andrews and James Maritato. He took part in the Road to the Title tournament, attempting to become the number one contender to the ROH Championship, but was eliminated in the first round by Amazing Red. After decisively defeating Andrews on several occasions, Xavier requested, and was granted, a shot at the ROH Championship. He faced the incumbent champion, Low Ki, on September 21, 2002, and defeated Low-Ki in a match which saw extensive cheating on the part of Xavier and interference from Christopher Daniels. Following his victory, the newly crowned champion joined Daniels' heel stable, The Prophecy. With the help of The Prophecy, Xavier successfully defended his title against Jay Briscoe, A.J. Styles and, on two occasions, Paul London, before losing to Samoa Joe at Night of Champions on March 22, 2003.