The Los Angeles Xtreme were a professional XFL team that played during the league’s first season in 2001. Representing Los Angeles, the team became one of the most successful franchises in early XFL history. With talented players and dynamic performances, the Los Angeles Xtreme quickly captured football fans’ attention across the nation.
Established
1999
City
Los Angeles
League History
2001 / XFL
Team History
2001 / Los Angeles Xtreme
Nickname
Xtreme – The Los Angeles Xtreme was a professional football team in the short-lived XFL league in 2001. As its name suggests, the team represented Los Angeles and played home games at the LA Memorial Coliseum. But what’s behind this unique nickname? Let’s take a look at how it came to be!
Los Angeles Xtreme Origin
The original owner of Xtreme was World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Chairman Vince McMahon, who wanted to create an exciting new brand for his startup football league. He chose “Xtreme” as an homage to extreme sports such as skateboarding and snowboarding, which were popular among young people during that period. This choice also reflected McMahon's desire for his teams to play more intensely than traditional NFL teams at that time – hence why they called themselves "extremists."
In addition, he felt like “Xtreme” could help him market his new product better than other names might have done; after all, it had been used before by several successful companies, including Xbox and Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, so there must have been something appealing about it! Furthermore, since Los Angeles is known for its laid-back attitude towards life - often referred to as "the city of angels" - having a word like “extreme" associated with them seemed appropriate too.
Ultimately though, despite all these reasons behind choosing this moniker, nothing could save the franchise from folding only one season later due mainly in part because no significant television networks picked up coverage rights or sponsorships deals from any of WWE's XFL teams – not even those based out in Hollywood itself like our beloved LAXers here today!. Regardless though, we still remember them fondly here on Sports Fan Central and hope you enjoyed learning about where their memorable name comes from!
Championship
XFL Championships 1
2001
Stadium
2001 / Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
Owner
2001 / World Wrestling Federation
- 2001
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Xtreme Team Formation
In the league’s lone season, the Los Angeles Xtreme was the XFL’s Southern California franchise. Led by quarterback Tommy Maddox, the Xtreme won the XFL Championship, called “The Million Dollar Game,” at the LA Coliseum. That remains Los Angeles’ only professional football championship since 1984.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Los Angeles Xtreme History
The Los Angeles Xtreme were a professional American football team that competed in the XFL, an alternative league to the NFL. The team was based in Los Angeles and began play in 2001 as part of the XFL’s inaugural season. The Los Angeles Xtreme quickly became one of the most dominant franchises in the league, known for their high-powered offense and disciplined defense.
During their historic debut season, the Los Angeles Xtreme earned a spot in the Million Dollar Game — the league’s championship — after finishing the regular season with an impressive record. Led by quarterback Tommy Maddox, they defeated the San Francisco Demons 38–6 to claim the only XFL championship in the league’s first run, marking a proud moment for Los Angeles football fans.
The team’s roster featured several standout players who later made their mark in the NFL. Quarterback Tommy Maddox went on to achieve success with the Pittsburgh Steelers, even winning the 2002 NFL Comeback Player of the Year award. Wide receiver Mike Furrey became a Pro Bowl player with the Detroit Lions, while safety Tony Parrish and defensive end Kenechi Udeze also went on to enjoy solid NFL careers.
Unfortunately, despite the team’s success and strong fan following, the original XFL team folded after the 2001 season due to low television ratings and financial challenges. The Los Angeles Xtreme, along with other XFL franchises, ceased operations, leaving behind only one season of competition but a legacy that still resonates with football fans who admired their grit and talent.
Xtreme Achievements
2001 XFL Championship Victory
One of the most memorable achievements in Los Angeles Xtreme history was winning the inaugural XFL championship. Led by head coach Al Luginbill and star quarterback Tommy Maddox, the team dominated the final game against the San Francisco Demons, showcasing their balanced offense and strong defense. The 38–6 victory remains one of the defining moments in early XFL history.
Player Success Beyond the XFL
Several players from the Los Angeles Xtreme transitioned successfully to the NFL, demonstrating the talent the XFL team had cultivated. Maddox’s rise with the Steelers, along with the careers of Furrey, Parrish, and Udeze, underscored how the Los Angeles Xtreme helped develop professional talent capable of excelling at the highest level of football.
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Coach
2001 / Al Luginbill
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history