Hello Mattyhew:
I did mention in my post that was able able to do the steps mentioned in this link (which includes getting into DFU mode).
The problem is that after this is completed, the Xenon goes back to staying in a listening mode.
Basically, there is no was to get it out of listening mode despite updating the firmware AND bootloader.
Believe me, I would like to find out what is causing this behavior as it should not happen because it causes the micro to be "locked out".