User blog comment:IamJakuhoRaikoben/Chapter 358: Magical Barrier Particles, Review./@comment-5668006-20131101020721/@comment-3290324-20131101032221

Don't get ahead of yourself there buddy. It's clear that there's way more to "Tempesta" than meets the eye. Notice how Mashima has not once referred to that fighter as Tempesta. Also take notice of the fact that "Tempesta" said that he had to sacrifice "one of his lives." It's clear that there is way more to the story to this character than we originally thought.

Also, even if Laxus would have lost, that wouldn't mean anything. Firstly, Laxus isn't the strongest Mage in Fairy Tail. Makarov and Gildarts are stronger. Secondly, if your theory was correct, then that would mean that all of the Nine Demon Gates are at the same level of strength, which is obviously inaccurate.