Murphy subsequently retained the title against Mustafa Ali at Survivor Series and Alexander at , respectively. On 27 January 2019, Murphy successfully defended his title in a fatal four-way match against Akira Tozawa, Kalisto and Hideo Itami at the Royal Rumble Kickoff Show after pinning Itami. On 17 February, Murphy retained his title against Tozawa at Elimination Chamber. At the WrestleMania 35 Kickoff Show, he lost his title to former partner Tony Nese, ending his reign at 183 days. Prior to this loss, Murphy had been undefeated in televised singles matches dating back to July 2018. On 9 April episode of "205 Live", Murphy was again defeated by Nese in a rematch for the WWE Cruiserweight Championship.