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Post by David on Jul 20, 2017 17:30:30 GMT -5
On the evening of Tuesday 4th July, nine days after the second night of All-Star Showdown VI, FGA alumnus Natalie McKinley, and former British wrestler Simon Jones, are seen inside a gym somewhere in Cardiff; Simon is using an exercise bike, with Natalie stood beside the bike, taking a break from her workout. While Simon continues to pedal, a conversation between the two is ongoing. Simon: ‘The worst thing about Blues missing out on John Terry is that of all the clubs he could’ve signed for, he chose to join Villa. There were rumours that Albion were interested in him, and if he’d joined them, I would’ve found it easier to accept. But Villa?’ A groan follows from Simon; Natalie chimes in with a comment of her own, in a wistful tone of voice. Natalie: ‘I’m still a bit broken-hearted about Peter Whittingham leaving Cardiff.’ ‘What are you two talking about?’ After momentarily being caught off guard by this interruption, Natalie and Simon then both turn to look in the direction that the voice came from, to see a smiling Lowri Moss approaching them. Natalie: ‘Lowri!’ Natalie greets her compatriot with a hug - or with them both being Welsh, more accurately, a cwtch. Natalie: ‘When did you get back?’ Lowri: ‘My flight landed at Manchester just before five this morning, and then I got into Central at about ten to ten.’ “Central” is Cardiff Central, the city’s largest and busiest railway station. Lowri turns her attention from Natalie to Simon, who by now has ceased pedalling. Lowri: ‘Hi Simon.’ Simon smiles at Lowri. Simon: ‘Hi Lowri. It’s good to see you back home.’ Lowri: ‘Thanks. It’s good to be back.’ Lowri looks at Natalie, then back to Simon, and repeats her query from a minute or so earlier. Lowri: ‘So, what were the two of you talking about?’ Simon casts a quick glance towards Natalie, before he answers Lowri’s question. Simon: ‘Natalie and I were lamenting the activity in the transfer market of our respective football clubs.’ Lowri raises a hand to cover her mouth, trying to stifle a yawn. Simon: ‘Sorry. I know you’re not interested in football, but I didn’t mean to bore you.’ Natalie: ‘To be fair, Lowri, you did ask.’ There is a wry smile from Lowri. Lowri: ‘That isn’t why I was yawning. I’m just knackered, that’s all. I had a nap earlier, after I got home, but despite that, I’m still a bit tired, as you can both see.’ Simon: ‘If you’re still tired, then maybe you should’ve stayed at home, and rested.’ Lowri: ‘It’s okay. I’m not so tired that I can’t manage a workout. Besides, if I skipped a gym session, I’m sure a certain someone wouldn’t let me hear the end of it, once she found out about it.’ Lowri gazes in Natalie’s direction, who instantly realises that she is the certain someone Lowri was referring to. Natalie: ‘What do you mean? If you really are tired, I would’ve let you off, just this once.’ Lowri replies in a sarcastic tone. Lowri: ‘Yeah, sure you would’ve.’ Though Natalie does not quite see the funny side of Lowri’s remark, Simon chuckles at it. Simon: ‘Jet lag aside, how are you, Lowri? In particular, after what happened the other Saturday, how are you now?’ Lowri: ‘I’m alright. For a few days afterwards, I was pretty miserable, but I’ve gotten past those feelings now; I’ve accepted that I’m probably going to fail to achieve my goal of winning a title in my rookie year.’ Lowri takes a breath, before continuing. Lowri: ‘You know, both of you have told me numerous times that I’ve got more talent than either of you, and yet…’ She does not finish her sentence, as her voice trails off, prompting Simon to frown. Simon: ‘And yet what?’ This time Lowri lets out a sigh. She then replies to Simon. Lowri: ‘It only took you two or three months to win the first title of your career. And around six months later, you were the promotion’s heavyweight champion.’ Simon: ‘That’s true, but the standard of the opposition I was up against was nothing compared to the rosters of FGA and UKWF, and the opponents that you find yourself in the ring with each time - that’s why I was able to rise through the ranks so quickly.’ Lowri: ‘I think the best way for me to respond to that, Simon, is with a phrase that I’ve heard you use at least once: “you can only beat what’s put in front of you.’” She turns to Natalie. Lowri: ‘And as for you, Natalie, I’ve heard you belittle your ability, describing yourself as a one-dimensional wrestler, and yet just over half a year after your first match, you too had a title to your name.’ Natalie: ‘Yes, but I lost it the second time I defended it, just eight after weeks winning it.’ Lowri: ‘You still won it though - even if you didn’t hold the title for all that long, you still won it. But me?’ Now Lowri shrugs. Lowri: ‘It’s actually ten months to the day since I competed in my first match, and what do I have to show for my efforts so far?’ She quickly glances around, checking that there is no one close enough to be able to eavesdrop on their conversation. Lowri: ‘Fuck all.’ A momentary silence follows, which is then broken by Natalie. Natalie: ‘I thought you said that you were no longer miserable about the result of your match at All-Star Showdown.’ Lowri: ‘I’m not. Now I’m merely disappointed about it.’ Simon clambers off the exercise bike. Simon: ‘Lowri, I’m not going to tell you that you’re too talented a wrestler to have to wait too much longer to win the first title of your career, as I’m sure that’s not what you want to hear right now. What I will say though, is that it’s good that it hurts - that shows how much you care. What you need to do now is use that as motivation, to propel yourself to a better outcome the next time that you get a chance to win your first title.’ There is a nod of the head from Lowri. Simon: ‘Well, as much as I would like to stay here and talk wrestling with the two of you, I ought to get home to my family. Enjoy your evenings, ladies.’ Simon begins to walk away. Lowri: ‘Okay, Simon. Bye.’ Natalie: ‘See you tomorrow, Simon.’ He stops, and turns back to look at Lowri. Simon: ‘Think about what I said, Lowri. I know you’re disappointed about what happened at All-Star Showdown, but don’t let it eat away at you - that won’t help you in any way.’ Lowri responds with another nod in acknowledgement. Simon then walks off, leaving the two Welsh girls by themselves. Natalie: ‘He’s right, you know.’ Lowri: ‘Yeah, I know.' Lowri and Natalie turn to face one another. Lowri: ‘Usually, a day or two after a match, I’ll watch a video of it, to analyse my performance.’ Before Lowri can say any more, Natalie interjects. Natalie: ‘To assess what you did right, and what you need to improve upon; I know the drill.’ Lowri: ‘Right. However, it’s over a week since All-Star Showdown took place, and I haven’t yet been able to bring myself to sit and watch what happened in the ladder match - I don’t want to have to relive my failure to win the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship all over again.’ Lowri looks down at the floor. Natalie: ‘Are you sure you’ve gotten past the worst of the emotions that you’ve gone through since All-Star Showdown? Listening to what you’re saying, I’m not so sure that you have.’ Lowri: ‘Trust me, I’m in a much better state of mind now than I was this time last week.’ She looks back up at Natalie. Lowri: ‘For the first few days after the match, pretty much all I thought about was how I had missed my chance to win my first title.’ Lowri pauses for a moment, to collect her thoughts. She then continues. Lowri: ‘I remember you telling me what it felt like the morning after your big win, when you woke up in the hotel, looked across the room, and saw your newly won title; I wanted to get to experience similar feelings of joy, but instead all I got were visions of Sadie with the title over her shoulder.’ Natalie frowns. Natalie: ‘You were down on the outside of the ring when Sadie got her hands on the belt though, so if you haven’t rewatched the match since, how can you possibly have had visions of her with the title?’ Lowri: ‘Because I know what the title looks like, and I know what Sadie looks like, so it’s not too difficult for me to imagine what she looks like with the title.’ Natalie shrugs. Natalie: ‘Fair enough.’ Lowri: ‘I’ve had Laurel and Neal both tell me that I’m better than a title, and while I’m still not entirely convinced about that, talking to friends and family about things has at least helped to raise my spirits. Going to Chicago last Wednesday to see Neal wrestle helped as well, even if I did have to watch him put himself through a weed wacker on a pole match.’ Natalie: ‘Is there something going on between you and Neal?’ Lowri shakes her head. Lowri: ‘Why do people think that? Neal and I are friends and tag team partners, nothing more.’ Natalie: ‘Are you sure there isn’t more between you than that? Some of the replies that he sends to you on Twitter suggest otherwise.’ Lowri shakes her head again, this time more vehemently. Lowri: ‘No, definitely not. I mean, about a week ago he did tweet a gif of Jay from The Inbetweeners saying, “I’d hit that,” shortly after I had tweeted a photo of myself, but I’m sure that was just a coincidence.’ Natalie does not say anything, instead she just looks at Lowri with an incredulous expression on her face. Lowri: ‘What? That gif was probably in response to something someone else tweeted - he follows other girls on Twitter, some of whom are bound to be much prettier than I am.’ Natalie: ‘If you say so.’ Natalie tucks a stray strand of hair behind her ear. Natalie: ‘The two of you are you going to be participating in the Dynamic Duos Tournament, aren’t you?’ Lowri: ‘Indeed we are.’ Natalie: ‘You don’t need me to tell you that if you win that, you’ll get a shot at the FGA tag titles - that would be a good way for you to break your duck.’ Lowri: ‘It would, but we’ve got some way to go before then - although we do have the advantage of having been given a bye through to the second round. That’s two and a half weeks away though, and while we wait to find out who are opponents will be, Neal and I have got another match to focus on first, this Sunday, up in Scarborough.’ Natalie: ‘Well, you won’t win anything if we spend all evening stood here, talking. Now I know you didn't come here just to have a chat, so come on, let’s get you an empty bar to warm up with.’ Natalie moves away from the exercise bike, gesturing for Lowri to follow her. Lowri: ‘Right behind you.’ And with that, Lowri heads in the same direction as her friend, ready to commence her workout.
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Post by David on Jul 1, 2017 10:00:05 GMT -5
The night has fallen over Chicago and fans are already leaving the Slaughterhouse, yet there’s one who’s staying by the door, impatiently waiting for someone. Her frantic back and forth pace denotes concern. She keeps checking her phone and then, the doors open up revealing a beaten up Neal Durden. He has bandages all over his body and dried up blood covering part of his face. He has a white shirt with his logo plastered in front of it and a pair of jeans. In his right hand he carries his bag and he walks up to the woman that was walking back and forth. He smirks and talks to her. Neal Durden: Lowri, you can stop… I’m alright. Lowri looked at her banged up tag-team partner and friend, and practically screamed at him. Lowri Moss: Well you don’t look alright! Do you have any idea how hard it was for me to watch that? She then pushed him in the chest. Lowri Moss: I still don’t understand why you want to take part in this sort of stuff. Neal makes a face, like he’s hurt, and shrugs. He then looks at Lowri and smiled, as he spoke. Neal Durden: I guess, I want to prove I’m strong, you know... Lowri Moss: Yeah, I know. You want to be the King of the Deathmatches, or something like that. Lowri put her hands on her hips, and stared at Neal. Lowri Moss: If you really want to prove you’re strong, I’m sure there are other, less dangerous ways you could do that. Neal smiled, well, more of a half smile, a condescending smile if you will, and tapped Lowri on the shoulder. Neal Durden: I think it’s better if we sit down, since this might take a while. Neal pointed to a short staircase nearby as they both sat down. Lowri looked at him with a mix of confusion and intrigue. Lowri Moss: Okay, what have you got to tell me that we need to be sat down for? Neal took a deep breath and looked at his friend before speaking. Neal Durden: There are a lot of things you don’t know about me. One of those is my real name… and I’ll be lying to you if I didn’t feel like a complete and utter bastard for that fact. So, Lowri… my name is Gareth Prichard, I hail from Cardiff, Wales and I’ve been your tag-team partner for a couple of months now. Neal laughed a bit, but it wasn’t the laugh you have when you’re joking, this was more of a resignated laugh, if that makes sense. He then looked at Lowri and continued speaking. Neal Durden: I know leaving you alone without notice was a coward move… and I completely understand if you want to slap me right in the face because of that… I wouldn’t judge you or anything. But, if you have anything to say about it… say it now. We have a couple of big matches coming up and the last thing I want is for you to have something on your chest against me and you haven’t told me yet. There was a sigh from Lowri. Lowri Moss: If I wanted to slap you, I would’ve done it two months ago, when you suddenly reappeared. Lowri looked away from Neal, as she digested what he had just told her. After a moment or two of silence, she then looked back at him. Lowri Moss: When you turned up that night in Ipswich, I was so relieved to see you again. I had feared that something bad had happened to you, something much worse than what I watched you go through tonight, so I was pleased to discover that wasn’t the case. And so no, I don’t want to slap you, but what I do want to know is where you were for those four months - while I was on my own in the UKWF, worrying about you, where were you, Neal? Or should I call you Gareth now? Neal hangs his head low, as to avoid eye contact with Lowri and speaks to her. Neal Durden: You call me however you want to call me, I just thought you, of all people… should know my real name. A sigh escapes him as he puts his head up and looks at the night before continuing speaking to his friend. Neal Durden: As for your question… I’m afraid things got a lot worse than what you saw tonight… The look on Neal’s face completely changed, it was obvious it hurt him to speak about this, but he felt the need to do so. Neal Durden: Ever since I was ten I’ve experienced periods of anxiety and depression. So, my disappearance had everything to do with that, since I tried to kill myself after I had a fight at home. I left my home and am living with a friend, renting his sofa on a night to night basis, just to fulfill my dream of becoming a champion alongside you. In fact, the reason I returned was… You. I care about you more than I care about anyone else I’ve met so far, so yes. I wish I was a strong as you, you’ve had to battle for everything you’ve had in your life, I was handed a lot of the things I had… yet, mentally I’m way weaker than you. It’s funny, how a lot of teams we go against see me as the “stronger” of the two… while, to me… you’re really the one holding us together. That’s why I do this, I want to prove to myself that I’m strong enough to handle things… you know. Neal hung his head again, avoiding eye contact with Lowri as much as possible and avoiding tearing up in front of her. Lowri Moss: Fuck, Neal. This is all a lot for me to take in. She took a deep breath, before continuing. Lowri Moss: I’m glad you feel comfortable enough with me to be able to tell me all that, but I wish you had told me sooner. With Neal keeping his head bowed, Lowri placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. Lowri Moss: And while you may think you need to prove something to yourself, you don’t need to prove anything to me. But, if you believe you need to put yourself through things like a weed wacker on a pole match, to show that you’re strong enough to handle things, then fine, I can accept that. Just promise me, please, if things end up getting too much for you for whatever reason, that you won’t disappear on me again without warning; I’m not just your tag team partner, Neal, I’m your friend, and if you ever need help, you can come to me - you know that, right? Neal extends his left hand to touch Lowri’s hand on his shoulder and he took a deep breath before finally looking her in the eyes and laughing. Neal Durden: I know that… and don’t worry, I won’t go anywhere without notice. By the way, can you imagine the face Annie would have if she saw us speaking like this? Neal started laughing, while his ears turned bright red; Lowri began to laugh as well. Lowri Moss: Yeah, I can picture it. I’m sure a few others might have similar expressions on their faces, as well. Then, for the first time in several days, Lowri managed a genuine smile. Lowri Moss: Do you really think I’m the strong one? I think this is the first time in four days that I’ve properly smiled - I haven’t been able to stop thinking about what happened on Saturday night. After hearing this Neal’s ears got even brighter as he shyly smiled at Lowri and struck his nose with his right hand as if he wanted to divert her attention as he spoke. Neal Durden: Yes, you are the strongest woman I’ve met and tha-- nevermind. The fact is, no one I know, not even me-- especially not me, have been able to sacrifice so much in order to achieve a dream as you have. And maybe physically you’re not strong for genetical reasons, but here-- Neal tapped his own heart before tapping Lowri’s head and speaking. Neal Durden: --and here… you’re one of the strongest I’ve seen. He smiled at her, not taking his brown eyes from hers. Lowri Moss: Do you still think I’ve been a revelation then? Because for the past few days, I haven’t exactly felt like one. Lowri raised an eyebrow, inquisitively. Neal laughed and placed his right hand over her shoulder as he spoke. Neal Durden: You are. Look at yourself and see how much you have accomplished in so little time. Sure, you didn’t win that title in FGA, but, be honest with yourself… did you hold back on the match? If so, you have every reason to be upset with yourself, if you didn’t… and I know you didn’t… then, there’s no reason not to feel like a revelation. Lowri gave a nod of her head. Lowri Moss: What can I say? When you’re right, you’re right. She then stood up, and grabbed Neal by one of his arms, trying to pull him to his feet as well. Lowri Moss: Come on, get up! We can’t spend all night sat in a stairwell. Neal stood up with her and thought of saying something else, but desisted. Lowri Moss: I’ll buy you a drink - if we can find a bar that’ll allow you in looking like that. Lowri looked Neal up and down. Neal Durden: Hey! I’m banged up… but I’m still sexy, and you know it. He started laughing, while his ears turned red. Lowri Moss: Sure you are, Neal. Whatever you say. She laughed at her friend. Lowri Moss: And perhaps we could finally think of a name for our team. I mean, if you can come up with a pseudonym for yourself, then I’m sure that between the two of us, we ought to be able to come up with something. He looked at her and spoke. Neal Durden: I’m not that good creating names… but maybe a drink or two might get us in a creative mood. Lowri Moss: And if not, a couple of drinks will at least help you to recover from your match. Neal Durden: True that. So… shall we go then?
Lowri nodded.
Lowri Moss: Yes, let’s. After Lowri ushers those words, Neal grabs his bag and the Welsh pair are off to the night, trying to find a place where to drink and possibly come up with a name for their Dynamic Duo.
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Post by David on Jun 26, 2017 17:45:11 GMT -5
While Night One of All-Star Showdown VI is still going on out in the ring, a camera finds Lowri Moss backstage at the Staples Center. Sat on a crate, with a bottle of water in one hand, Lowri is staring off into the distance, in an almost trance-like state. In addition to the presence of the camera, Jessie Pederson soon arrives on the scene, and approaches Lowri. Jessie Pederson: Lowri? Lowri ignores Jessie, instead continuing to stare off into the distance. Jessie Pederson: I spotted you sat here by yourself, and I just wanted to check how you are, after what happened during your match. There is a deep sigh from Lowri, who then responds to Jessie. Lowri Moss: I’m gutted. That causes Jessie to frown. Jessie Pederson: What? Smiling meekly, Lowri finally turns to look at Jessie. Lowri Moss: Sorry, Jessie. It’s a British term. It means, extremely disappointed. Jessie Pederson: Oh, right. What I actually meant though was, I wanted to check how you are after that big fall you took, off the ladder and through the tables. Lowri runs her free hand through her hair. Lowri Moss: I’m okay. I’ve suffered some bumps and bruises, but thankfully nothing worse than that - no sprains or tears, and nothing’s broken. I’m sure I’ll be very sore in the morning, but I’ll live. She then lets out a gentle laugh, to Jessie’s surprise. Jessie Pederson: What’s so funny? Lowri Moss: When I spoke to you earlier, before the match, I considered making a jokey comment about how I had never previously had to practise for a ladder match, and how the wrestling school where I trained hadn’t taught me how to fall off a ladder, but I thought better of it, because I didn’t want to jinx myself. As it turns out though, even without jinxing myself, I still ended up being sent flying off a ladder. Or perhaps I jinxed myself simply by thinking about it. Lowri shrugs, indifferently. Jessie Pederson: Well, it’s good to hear that you weren’t hurt too badly by that fall. A momentary silence then follows, before Lowri asks Jessie a question.
Lowri Moss: Do you remember earlier, Jessie, I talked to you about my goal of winning a title in my rookie year, and how time was running out for me to accomplish that? Jessie nods her head. Lowri Moss: You asked if that made it a do or die situation for me tonight, and I said I wouldn’t go quite that far. However, sat here now… Lowri’s sentence trails off. She then glances down at the floor, before looking back up at Jessie. Lowri Moss: I had been sat here for several minutes before you and the cameraman found me, deep in contemplation. I wasn’t prepared for how disappointed I would feel at not winning. I wanted to win - I mean, I really wanted to win - but that wasn’t enough, and here I am now, sat feeling - dare I say it - empty, with nothing to show for my efforts. Lowri leans back against the wall, letting her body sag. Lowri Moss: I feel like a contestant on a game show, who has gotten all the way to the final round, only to then miss out on all the prizes, and be left with just their bus fare home. Jessie Pederson: So where do you go from here? Lowri looks away from Jessie, and gazes elsewhere briefly; she then looks back to the reporter. Lowri Moss: I suppose I’ll get showered and changed, and then I’ll go back to my hotel room, to try to sleep off the effects of the match. A wry smile crosses Jessie’s face. Jessie Pederson: I didn’t mean it literally. I meant, what’s next for you following the outcome of tonight’s match? There is another sigh from Lowri, although it is not as profound as the previous one. Lowri Moss: With the mood I’m in at the moment, I hadn’t given that any thought. I guess the first thing I ought to do is to be magnanimous in defeat, and congratulate Sadie on winning the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship. Jessie Pederson: Would it be fair to assume that you still harbor ambitions of holding that title yourself? Now it is Lowri’s turn to nod. Lowri Moss: Yes, I would like to think that what has occurred tonight has only delayed me becoming the champion, and not stopped it entirely from ever happening. I still hope to one day be able to call myself the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion, but how long will it be before I next get a shot at the title? She shrugs again. Lowri Moss: Who knows? As the former champion, AMIRA is of course entitled to a return match for the title, and I presume that she will indeed invoke her rematch clause. Although, knowing AMIRA, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if she tries to claim that she is still the champion - I mean, she still has that gaudy Magnificent AMIRA Legacy Championship belt of hers. But as for me, I guess I’ll just have to wait my turn, and deal with whatever comes my way in the meantime. She then leans forward. Lowri Moss: Would you help me to get off this please, Jessie? I’m a bit stiff after having been sat here for a while. Jessie Pederson: Yeah, sure. Lowri extends her free hand towards Jessie, who obligingly helps her. Lowri Moss: Thank you. Jessie Pederson: You’re welcome. Jessie offers Lowri a smile. Lowri Moss: Right, Jessie, I'm going to go and have that shower I mentioned, so enjoy the rest of All-Star Showdown, and I’ll see you...whenever.
Jessie gives a nod of acknowledgement.
Jessie Pederson: Bye, Lowri. Lowri then walks off, albeit gingerly, and the scene cuts away.
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Post by David on Jun 13, 2017 17:04:40 GMT -5
Shortly after the final match of the night, Spencer Burke is seen backstage at the Orleans Arena, stood with one of the participants from the show’s main event: Lowri Moss. Spencer Burke: Lowri, tonight you teamed successfully with Johnny Karma, Chris Madison, and Chris Bond, to defeat the quartet of Izzy Anders, Savannah Taylor, Ricky Valero, and the woman whose title you will be challenging for in two weeks, AMIRA. The interview is taking place mere moments after the end of the match, the events of which are still fresh in Lowri’s mind, but nevertheless, being reminded by Spencer of what happened brings a smile to her face. Spencer Burke: How are you feeling now, following what was your first appearance in a main event since arriving in FGA? I assume you must have been glad to get one over on AMIRA, ahead of your upcoming match at All Star Showdown VI. Lowri nods. Lowri Moss: I’m feeling pretty good right now. She takes a breath, before continuing. Lowri Moss: I know that my three partners for the evening are all accustomed to being in the main event, and the same is true for our opponents, but like you said, Spencer, for me, it’s still a new experience. Being in the main event, sharing a ring with the likes of Karma, Madison, and Bond, as well as our opponents - who regardless of what people may think of them, there’s no denying their ability in the ring - was something that I had been looking forward to, and it certainly didn’t disappoint; it’s the first of what I hope will be many main event appearances for me in FGA - I’ve gotten a taste of it, and I would like to have more. Lowri licks her lips. Lowri Moss: Being on the winning side in the match of course helped to make it a pleasant experience, but perhaps the best part of the whole thing for me was that I was able to get my hands on AMIRA, and drop her with a Nos Da. She holds her hands out in front of her, and looks at her palms for a few seconds, before returning her attention to Spencer. Lowri Moss: I didn’t get much chance to savour it though, as almost immediately, I too was taken down, courtesy of Izzy Anders - I guess that’s what it’ll be like in the ladder match at All Star Showdown, what with there being seven of us in the match. I mean, at any time during the match, I could have the upper hand against one of my opponents, but I’ll still need to have an eye out for the other five; I’ll definitely need to keep my wits about me, if I’m to leave with the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship. Spencer Burke: On that subject, earlier this evening, prior to the main event, we got to hear from AMIRA, regarding the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship match at All Star Showdown; I would like to know what you thought about what she had to say, and in particular, what she had to say about you. A wry smile crosses Lowri’s face. Lowri Moss: Believe it or not, I actually thought what she said was kind of funny. The reporter is taken aback by this admission. Spencer Burke: Really? Lowri Moss: Yes, Spencer. Her description of Wales as an isle of sheep and...what else was it? Lowri scratches her forehead, trying to recall AMIRA’s comment from earlier in the night; Spencer helps her out. Spencer Burke: I believe the phrase that she used was, “an isle of sheep and extraneous consonants.” Lowri Moss: Yeah, that’s it! To be fair to AMIRA, that description is pretty much spot on. A slight sigh from Lowri follows. Lowri Moss: I didn’t find it quite as funny when she called me a jealous shrew, and a...a contemptible gelatinous mound of waste, I think it was - not that I would expect her to say anything positive about me. There is then an unconcerned shrug of the shoulders from Lowri. Lowri Moss: Of the six challengers in the match at All Star Showdown, I would like to think that I’m the biggest threat to AMIRA’s reign as champion, and I think she knows it, too. And, having gotten the better of her tonight, I’m confident that I can get the better of her again in two weeks, so that I’ll be the one leaving Los Angeles with the title, while she will have to say hwyl fawr to it. A confused expression appears on Spencer’s face; Lowri notices this, and guesses - correctly - the reason for his confusion. Lowri Moss: “Hwyl fawr” is Welsh for goodbye. Spencer gives a nod of acknowledgement. Spencer Burke: Final question before I let you go: what’s in store for you between now and All Star Showdown? Lowri Moss: Well, the promotion that I work for at home, in the UK, has left me off their next show, so as things stand, I’m planning to remain in the US for the next two weeks. That will of course mean less travelling for me, which in turn will mean I have more time to train for the match at All Star Showdown - and never having been in a ladder match before, I need all the time I can get to prepare for this one, as I try to get an edge over my opponents. Lowri again pauses to take a breath. Lowri Moss: Because in thirteen days’ time, I’m intent on winning the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship, and I’m not willing to accept any other outcome. She shakes her head, defiantly. Lowri Moss: Right, well, I think I ought to go get showered and changed. Spencer Burke: Okay, Lowri. Thanks for you time. Lowri Moss: You’re welcome, Spencer. See you in LA. The scene then cuts away.
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Post by David on May 17, 2017 11:15:13 GMT -5
Some time after Vertigo has finished, rookie Welsh wrestler Neal Durden is seen stood in a corridor backstage at the Santa Ana Star Center, awaiting the appearance of his compatriot and friend, Lowri Moss. Neal does not have to wait much longer before Lowri comes into sight, and having showered and changed following the evening’s events, she is pulling a trolley case behind her, but moving somewhat less freely than normal.
Neal Durden: Good to go?
Lowri nods.
Lowri Moss: Yeah, all good.
Neal Durden: Would you like me to take that for you?
Neal points to Lowri’s case.
Lowri Moss: No, thanks. I think I can manage.
Just as the duo are about to head for the exit, a familiar voice calls out.
Spencer Burke: Lowri!
Lowri and Neal turn in unison to see the reporter approaching their position; Lowri forces a smile onto her face, before responding to Spencer.
Lowri Moss: Hi, Spencer. What can I do for you?
Spencer Burke: I wanted to get some comments from you about what happened earlier, during your match.
Spencer then eyes Neal, who does not say anything, as he stands silently next to Lowri. Lowri also glances at her friend, before looking back to Spencer.
Lowri Moss: Don’t worry about him, Spencer - Neal just wanted to be here tonight to support me.
Lowri again looks at Neal.
Lowri Moss: You don’t mind if I answer some quick questions, do you?
Neal shakes his head. Lowri then turns her attention back to Spencer.
Lowri Moss: Okay, Spencer. I know you said you want to get a comment from me about what happened during my match, but I’m guessing that you specifically want to get a reaction from me about how the match ended.
Spencer nods.
Spencer Burke: That’s right. After the way that the match abruptly ended - when AMIRA attacked you, your partners, and your opponents with a steel chair - I wanted to ask you how you’re feeling.
Lowri Moss: How am I feeling? Do you mean physically or emotionally, Spencer?
Spencer Burke: Both.
Lowri Moss: Well, physically, I’m quite sore. I’m used to having to put up with some soreness following a match, but after what AMIRA did earlier, I’m sorer th...
Lowri’s sentence suddenly trails off.
Lowri Moss: That’s not a word, is it?
She then frowns momentarily, before continuing.
Lowri Moss: I’m more sore than usual - that’s what I meant to say. I’ll live though. In fact, I already feel a bit better, after having had a shower, and I’m sure that a drink or two will help to soothe my aches and pains.
Spencer Burke: And so what about emotionally? I’m assuming you must be angry about what AMIRA did.
Lowri Moss: You would think so, wouldn’t you?
Lowri cracks a half-smile.
Lowri Moss: I’m disappointed the match didn’t have a definitive outcome, and that the fans were denied getting to see it reach a proper conclusion, but believe it or not, I’m not actually feeling any anger towards AMIRA; I’m not going to go looking for retribution - at least, I’m not going to go looking to get a pound of flesh. You see, the best way that I can think of to get revenge against AMIRA for her actions earlier isn’t to retaliate with a similar attack.
Lowri gives a shake of the head.
Lowri Moss: No, the best way for me to get revenge against AMIRA would be for me to take the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship from her.
Her smiles broadens.
Lowri Moss: Two weeks ago, I stated that I want to be the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion, and after what she did earlier, I know now that AMIRA sees not only me, but the others as well, as a threat to her reign as champion - if she didn’t view us as a threat, then she wouldn’t have felt the need to come out and attack us with a steel chair, would she? So no, I’m not angry about what AMIRA did, because all she really did is she let me know that I’m doing something right, as far as my championship aspirations are concerned. Now I just hope to be given the opportunity that I desire, so that I can get to prise the title away from her.
Lowri casts a quick glance in Neal’s direction, before looking back to Spencer.
Lowri Moss: Now, Spencer, if you’ll please excuse me, I promised Neal here that I would buy him a drink. And after seeing what Julian Tijerina was eating earlier, I also kind of fancy having a kebab.
She turns away from Spencer, to her friend.
Lowri Moss: Come on, Neal. Let’s go.
The two Welsh wrestlers depart the area, as the scene then cuts away.
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Post by David on May 1, 2017 13:00:21 GMT -5
In an area backstage at the Laredo Energy Arena, following the conclusion of Vertigo, Jessie Pederson is seen stood together with Lowri Moss.
Jessie Pederson: Lowri, earlier to...
Before Jessie has barely had chance to say anything, she is interrupted by Lowri.
Lowri Moss: I’m sorry to cut you off, Jessie, but I just want to take a moment to apologise for the way that I spoke to you two weeks ago, when you tried to talk to me after I had been eliminated from the Gold Rush Rumble. It was wrong of me to speak to you the way that I did.
Jessie Pederson: It’s okay, Lowri. Don’t worry about it.
Jessie smiles politely at Lowri, putting her at ease.
Jessie Pederson: Have you gotten over the disappointment that you were feeling following your quick elimination from the Rumble?
Lowri Moss: It took me less than twenty-four hours to get over it, Jessie. The day after Only the Strong Survive was Easter Sunday, and chocolate made everything better.
Now it is Lowri’s turn to smile at Jessie.
Lowri Moss: I’m still waiting though for someone to tell me what name is given to the participant in the Gold Rush Rumble that has the dubious honour of being the opposite of the Iron Man.
Jessie Pederson: I don’t think there is actually a name for that, Lowri - although if there was, maybe it would be something like Mr. Irrelevant.
Lowri scratches her forehead.
Lowri Moss: So I would be Ms. Irrelevant, then?
She thinks it over for a few seconds, before giving a shrug of her shoulders.
Lowri Moss: Alright.
Jessie Pederson: Okay, so, let’s move on to what happened tonight, when you first defeated Jaelynn Ramsey in her FGA debut, before then later stopping AMIRA from throwing the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship belt in the trash - you certainly had a busy evening.
Lowri Moss: A busy evening, but a productive one.
Lowri smiles positively.
Lowri Moss: It wasn’t all that long ago that I was in Jaelynn’s shoes - I remember speaking to you at the start of last month, Jessie, following my own debut in FGA. Back then, I reflected upon having made a positive first impression, and I guess that each of the people who made their debuts tonight would’ve wanted to do likewise. But while some of them were victorious, like my former foe James Edwards, and Macy Dover - who somehow managed to beat Big John Match - thankfully for me, Jaelynn will have to wait for her first win in FGA.
There is a small sigh from Lowri, before she continues.
Lowri Moss: I know I was on the back foot for much of the match, but I was able to endure Jaelynn’s onslaught, before going on to pick up the win. People will have heard me utter the words “train, fight, win,” and I think that tonight, everyone watching will have gotten an impression of just how much fight I have in me.
Her smile then broadens slightly.
Lowri Moss: And I’m also pleased that I managed to win my final match before I turn twenty-two.
Jessie Pederson: Well, as I mentioned a moment ago, that match was followed later by the encounter you had with the new Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion, AMIRA. Now, with AMIRA having left the championship behind in the ring, after you prevented her from throwing it in the trash, I was wondering, where is the belt now?
Lowri shrugs again.
Lowri Moss: I’m not sure exactly where it is now, Jessie, but I can tell you that after AMIRA disappeared up the ramp, I brought the belt backstage with me, and then handed it to the first official that I saw.
Lowri glances over her shoulder, before looking back to Jessie.
Lowri Moss: You see, Jessie, I want that belt, but I don’t want to be seen parading around with something that I haven’t actually earned, and so, as AMIRA apparently doesn’t want the belt, I thought it best that the FGA officials look after it for now, until I have the chance to earn the right to hold it.
Jessie Pederson: On the subject of the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship, Dom Harter stated earlier that he won’t be invoking his rematch clause, so are you asking that you be given a shot at the title instead?
Lowri responds with a gentle shake of her head.
Lowri Moss: I’m not going to demand that I be given anything, Jessie, I merely want to make my intentions clear. I didn’t come to FGA to just make up the numbers, so now that I’ve been here a couple of months, and I’ve gotten my feet under me, I feel ready to set my sights on something in particular - specifically, on trying to win the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship.
Lowri runs her fingers through her hair.
Lowri Moss: I heard what Dom said about not invoking his rematch clause for the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship, which of course means that the Executive Committee will need to select someone else to be AMIRA’s first challenger, and while I’m sure that there’ll be other members of the FGA roster who feel that they should be given a shot at the title, I want to stake my claim.
Lowri puts her hands on her hips.
Lowri Moss: To put it simply, I want to be the FGA Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion - I want to go from irrelevance, to prominence.
The scene then cuts away.
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Post by David on Apr 18, 2017 14:15:10 GMT -5
While the Gold Rush Rumble continues out in the ring, stood backstage at the Amalie Arena is Jessie Pederson. It is at this moment that Lowri Moss trudges past, following her rapid elimination from the Rumble. Lowri has her head down, and has begun to unwrap the tape around her wrists; Jessie calls out to her.
Jessie Pederson: Lowri!
Lowri replies curtly, without even so much as a glance at Jessie.
Lowri Moss: Not now, Jessie.
She takes a few more steps, before coming to a stop. She then raises her head, and turns to face Jessie.
Lowri Moss: I’m sorry, Jessie. That was rude of me.
Lowri walks back to where Jessie is stood.
Lowri Moss: I’m not angry at you, Jessie, I’m angry at myself, after my performance in the Rumble - or perhaps I should say, my non-performance. I didn’t expect to win it, but the Gold Rush Rumble could’ve been the setting for me to produce a star making performance. Instead though, what I produced out there was...it was...
There is a pause, as Lowri searches for a suitable adjective; once she comes up with one that she is satisfied with, she spits it out.
Lowri Moss: Pathetic.
Ashamed, Lowri looks down towards the floor.
Lowri Moss: I was in the match for barely a minute. I think the clip of me talking about the Gold Rush Rumble that aired prior to the match actually lasted longer than I was in the Rumble for.
She then looks back up at Jessie.
Lowri Moss: I thought I had dodged a bullet when Big John Match was eliminated right before I was due to enter, but nope.
Having finished removing her wrist tape, Lowri throws it to the floor in frustration.
Lowri Moss: I’m more annoyed about this than I was two weeks ago, when I had victory in the battle royal snatched away from me by AMIRA.
Lowri runs a hand through her hair.
Lowri Moss: By tomorrow morning, I’ll probably be over this disappointment, and I’ll start to think about whatever challenge may lie ahead for me next. Now though, I don’t feel much like talking, I just want a fucking drink.
Lowri lets out a long sigh.
Lowri Moss: I’ll see you later, Jessie.
She gives the reporter a meek smile.
Jessie Pederson: Bye, Lowri.
She bends down to pick up her discarded wrist tape.
Lowri Moss: As annoyed as I am right now, I’m still not a litterer.
Lowri then walks off, soon disappearing from view. However, a couple of seconds later, she can be heard asking a question loudly, to no-one in particular.
Lowri Moss: What’s the opposite of being the Iron Man in the Gold Rush Rumble?
The scene then cuts away.
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Post by David on Mar 20, 2017 17:45:40 GMT -5
In an area backstage at the Spectrum Centre, Spencer Burke is seen, microphone in hand, stood together with Lowri Moss.
Spencer Burke: Lowri, earlier tonight you competed in your second match in FGA, and you followed up the win you achieved in your debut with another victory. I assume you must be pleased with the start you’ve made here in FGA.
Lowri replies in a typically British understated manner.
Lowri Moss: Yeah, Spencer, I can’t complain.
She then sighs contentedly.
Lowri Moss: You know, I had a bit of an inauspicious start to this trip, when I got the name of my opponent wrong in something that I tweeted, referring to him as “Justin,” rather than Jason. That wasn’t my fault, though - someone gave me misleading information.
Lowri smirks.
Lowri Moss: Thankfully that mistake didn’t prove to be a bad omen, as things got better from there on, and after picking up another win tonight, hopefully I’m showing that FGA didn’t make a mistake when they gave me the chance to make this company my home in the US.
Spencer Burke: I think it’s fair to say that you’ve made a positive impression in FGA thus far.
Lowri smiles at Spencer’s statement.
Lowri Moss: I would like to think so - being part of FGA is a big thing for me. Wrestling has experienced a resurgence in the UK, but for any aspiring wrestler, there are still greater opportunities to be had in the US, and so I need to be over here competing on this side of the Atlantic, as well as at home. But while I’m happy to make the journey every other week from my home in South Wales, to get to compete inside the FGA ring, I'm not a wide-eyed tourist, who's just glad to be here.
Lowri shakes her head.
Lowri Moss: Like I said two weeks ago, prior to my debut, I'm here to be successful.
Spencer Burke: Looking ahead, we’re now four weeks away from Only the Strong Survive, and the Gold Rush Rumble. Twenty-one participants have already been announced for the Rumble, with nine spots in the match remaining; do you hope to be one of those nine?
Spencer’s question causes Lowri to frown slightly.
Lowri Moss: Who wouldn’t want to have the chance to become the next challenger for the FGA Undisputed Championship? Surely any self-respecting member of the roster would want to have such an opportunity - me included.
There is then another small sigh from Lowri.
Lowri Moss: But, Spencer, as you said, there are only nine spots in the Rumble remaining, and as I’ve only been an active member of the FGA roster for a couple of weeks, there are probably at least nine people ahead of me in the pecking order to fill those vacancies, so I think that come Only the Strong Survive, I may merely be a spectator. I’m okay with that, though - my time will come.
Spencer Burke: Well, if you’re not expecting to be a participant in the Gold Rush Rumble, do you have your mind on anything else?
Lowri takes a moment to ponder her response, before answering the question.
Lowri Moss: I suppose my mind is simply on trying to continue winning my matches, and then waiting to see where that takes me; I’ve now competed in two matches in FGA - against Ian Cross, and against Jason Hawk - and I’ve managed to win them both. Winning is a good habit to have, and it’s one that I would like to maintain.
Lowri runs a hand through her hair.
Lowri Moss: In fact, going back to what I said before about making FGA my home in the US, so far in my career I have got a perfect record in matches on US soil - although admittedly, you can count on one hand the number of matches in the US that I've been in. Nevertheless, I'm yet to lose a match in FGA, or anywhere else in the US, and I want to try to keep that record intact for as long as I can; I’ll keep training, I’ll keep fighting, and hopefully, I'll keep on winning.
Spencer nods.
Spencer Burke: Alright. Thanks for your time, Lowri.
Lowri smiles.
Lowri Moss: You’re welcome, Spencer.
The scene then cuts away.
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Post by David on Mar 5, 2017 18:30:12 GMT -5
Following her successful debut, Lowri Moss is seen backstage at the FedExForum, sipping from a bottle of water as she heads towards the locker room, when she is accosted by Jessie Pederson.
Jessie Pederson: Excuse me, Lowri - may I ask you a couple of questions?
Lowri looks at Jessie with a surprised expression on her face.
Lowri Moss: You want to interview me?
Jessie nods in confirmation.
Jessie Pederson: Yes. Is that alright?
Lowri Moss: Yeah, of course. I’ve just never done an interview before, is all.
Jessie frowns.
Jessie Pederson: Really? Does the company you work for in the UK not have an interviewer?
Lowri Moss: They do, but she’s also the ring announcer, so she doesn’t get much chance to do interviews. Come to think of it, you probably know her, as she was briefly a trainee in Lion's Den: Katherine Kensington.
Jessie avoids saying anything about Katherine Kensington; Lowri quickly continues.
Lowri Moss: I’m aware that some people found her annoying when she was in Lion's Den, but I don’t think she’s so bad. Anyway, Jessie, what did you want to ask me?
Jessie Pederson: Well, Kris Cruise mentioned on commentary that we had seen vignettes from you in previous weeks, announcing your impending arrival in FGA, so how did it feel to make your debut?
Lowri Moss: It felt great. I had been itching to make my debut in FGA for a while, and so I was glad to finally get the opportunity to do so.
A wry smile crosses Lowri’s lips, as she recalls something.
Lowri Moss: You know, just as an aside, as I was making my way to the ring, it was funny to hear J.A. Aldridge trying to pronounce the name of my hometown: it’s Llanelli - Th-lan-eth-lee.
Lowri then silently mouths “Llanelli” again.
Lowri Moss: Getting back to your question though, I said earlier that I wanted to make a positive first impression in FGA, and by picking up a win in my debut, I feel like I achieved that.
Jessie Pederson: And so, having won your first match in FGA, what do you hope will be next for you?
There is a slight shrug from Lowri.
Lowri Moss: I don’t know, I’ve only just set foot in an FGA ring for the first time, so I think it’s a bit early for me to be making specific requests, saying I want this, or I want that. In more general terms though, I just want to have the chance to shine.
She takes a breath, before continuing.
Lowri Moss: It’s only been a matter of minutes since my match ended, but I’m already eagerly anticipating when I’ll get to step into that ring again. I look forward to whatever challenges are thrown my way in the coming weeks and months, and trying to overcome them. Tonight, everyone in FGA got their first glimpse of Lowri Moss, but there’s a lot more to come from me, of that you can be sure.
Jessie Pederson: Okay, Lowri. Thank you.
Lowri smiles politely at Jessie.
Lowri Moss: You’re welcome.
Lowri then takes another drink from her bottle of water, and resumes her walk towards the locker room.
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Post by David on Mar 1, 2017 13:00:32 GMT -5
On Friday 9th September 2016, five days after making her pro debut at a show in London staged by the United Kingdom Wrestling Federation, Lowri Moss is seen inside Tesco Extra, in the Gabalfa district of her adopted hometown of Cardiff. Together with one of her housemates, Adam Williams, Lowri is stood in the supermarket's [alcoholic] drinks aisle, looking at crates of beer.
Adam: ‘I don’t know whether to get Foster’s or Carlsberg.’
Lowri: ‘Which would you prefer?’
Adam: ‘Well, Stella would be my choice, but not everyone that’s going to be there tomorrow likes it as much as I do.’
Adam looks to Lowri for help.
Adam: ‘Have you got any preference?’
She responds with a shrug.
Lowri: ‘I don’t know. Whatever’s going to get me drunk the quickest, I guess.’
Adam: ‘Out of the two, that would be Carlsberg.’
As Adam continues to ponder which beer he should purchase, another shopper can be seen making his way along the aisle: pushing a shopping trolley, and heading in Lowri and Adam’s direction, is former British wrestler - and resident of Cardiff - Simon Jones. Simon recognises Lowri from having watched her debut match, and he slows his pace, coming to a stop a few yards from where Lowri and Adam are stood, but out of their line of sight.
Simon: ‘Excuse me?’
Lowri and Adam both turn to look at Simon. Having been a wrestling fan since a young age, Lowri instantly knows who it is that is addressing them, and is too awestruck to say anything; Adam, on the other hand, has no idea who Simon is.
Adam: ‘Yes?’
Simon ignores Adam, and looks to Lowri.
Simon: ‘Is your name Lowri Moss?’
Still somewhat stunned, it takes Lowri a couple of seconds to manage a verbal response, as she nods.
Lowri: ‘Yes.’
Simon steps towards Lowri, and extends his hand.
Simon: ‘Hi. I’m S…’
Lowri interrupts Simon.
Lowri: ‘You don’t need to introduce yourself to me - I’m well aware of who you are.’
She then shakes his hand.
Lowri: ‘It’s a pleasure to meet you.’
Simon: ‘Likewise.’
Lowri smiles nervously; Simon smiles back, trying to put her at ease. She gestures towards Adam.
Lowri: ‘This is Adam - he’s one of my housemates.’
She then looks to Adam.
Lowri: ‘This is Simon Jones - he’s an ex-wrestler, who was a multi-time world heavyweight champion during his career.’
Adam raises an eyebrow.
Adam: ‘Oh really? How many times were you a world champion?’
Simon: ‘Between two and four - it depends who you ask.’
Simon holds out his hand to Adam, who shakes it.
Simon: ‘Nice to meet you.’
Adam: ‘And you.’
Simon looks the 6’4” tall Adam up and down.
Simon: ‘You’re not a wrestler as well then, like Lowri here? You certainly look like you could be a wrestler.’
Adam: ‘No, my job is far less exciting.’
Simon gives a wry smile. A momentary lull in the conversation then follows, until Simon speaks.
Simon: ‘So, are you two stocking up for a party, or something?’
Adam: ‘Us and our other two housemates are having a few friends round tomorrow evening. It’s nothing big, though.’
Lowri: ‘Yeah, but someone can’t decide which lager to buy - he can’t choose between Carlsberg and Foster’s.’
Lowri gives Adam a playful dig in the ribs, and Simon laughs with them, before casting a glance at his partially filled shopping trolley.
Simon: ‘I’m just here because my wife has entrusted me with the responsibility of doing our Friday big shop.’
Lowri makes a quip.
Lowri: ‘That’s an important responsibility.’
Simon replies in a similar tone.
Simon: ‘It is, but I think I’m on top of it.’
Adam glances between Lowri and Simon.
Adam: ‘I think I’m going to go and have a look for food for tomorrow.’
Lowri: ‘Okay.’
While Lowri frowns slightly, Simon smiles politely.
Simon: ‘Well, it was nice meeting you, Adam.’
Adam: ‘Thanks, you too.’
Adam then wanders off, leaving Lowri to speak to Simon on her own, knowing that she will be eager to talk to him about wrestling - and no sooner has Adam disappeared from view, than Lowri asks Simon a question.
Lowri: ‘So I have to say, finding out that you know my name is a pleasant surprise, but...how is it that you know who I am?’
Simon: ‘I saw the match that you were involved in last weekend, that’s how; well done on your win, by the way.’
Lowri: ‘Thank you.’
Lowri smiles appreciatively.
Lowri: ‘Were you there at the show?’
There is a shake of the head from Simon.
Simon: ‘No, I watched the show online.’
Lowri: ‘Do you watch all of the UKWF’s shows?’
Simon: ‘I try to, if I can find the time - a friend of mine made a guest appearance on one of their first shows, back in April, and so I’ve maintained an interest in them since then. I...errr...’
Simon pauses briefly, before continuing.
Simon: ‘I like to keep an eye out for young, upcoming British wrestlers. And having lived here in Cardiff for a number of years now, I have a particular soft spot for promising Welsh wrestlers, such as you and your tag team partner.’
He then rubs his chin.
Simon: ‘Are the two of you going to be a permanent team?’
An uncertain Lowri shrugs.
Lowri: ‘I’m not entirely sure, but I guess so. I mean, we won last Sunday, and we’re going to be teaming again in another match next weekend, so yeah, it looks like it.’
She smiles sheepishly.
Lowri: ‘May I ask what you thought of the match last Sunday?’
Simon takes a moment to consider his answer, before he replies.
Simon: ‘Bearing in mind that it was your first match as a team, as well as being your first match ever, I would say that it went about as well as it possibly could have. There’s obviously still plenty of things for you to work on, and improve upon, but it was a positive start.’
Lowri nods her head in agreement.
Lowri: ‘I hadn’t anticipated being put in a tag team, but I’m just glad to have been given an opportunity to prove myself, whatever the circumstances.’
Simon: ‘Did you already know Neal before you joined the UKWF?’
“Neal” is Neal Durden, Lowri’s then tag team partner.
Lowri: ‘No, the first time that we came into contact with one another was less than three weeks ago.’
Simon: ‘Really? I wouldn’t have guessed that from seeing the way that the two of you worked together as a team - like how he threw one of your opponents up into the air with a flapjack, and then you executed a superkick to win the match; I suppose you must just have had instant chemistry.’
Lowri: ‘Yeah, I suppose so. We both want to make this team work, so hopefully there’s a lot more to come from us.’
Simon: ‘Well, you look to have the makings of a good team, so I think you could well have a successful future together.’
Simon then asks Lowri another question.
Simon: ‘Given that you only wrestled the first match of your career five days ago, would I be right to assume that you have another job, so as to be able to support yourself?’’
Lowri: ‘You are indeed correct: I have a job working in a bank on Queen Street.’
Queen Street is the main road in the centre of Cardiff.
Lowri: ‘I'm on a rolling contract, rather than being a permanent member of staff, and I look forward to the time when I’ll be able to hand in my notice. However, until I start making enough money from wrestling for me to be able to afford to give up my day job, I’m stuck working there.’
Simon: ‘I see. Do you have any ambition at all to wrestle in the US?’
Lowri nods.
Lowri: ‘Absolutely. It’s great to have the chance to wrestle in places around London, and I hope that at some point I’ll get to wrestle elsewhere in the UK as well - in particular, I would love to be part of a match on a show in South Wales…’
Simon chimes in.
Simon: ‘Of course.’
Lowri continues, her train of thought not having been broken by Simon's remark.
Lowri: ‘...but, if I’m really going to make a name for myself, then I know that the US is the place to be.’
Simon: ‘Well, as you’re probably aware, most of my own career was spent wrestling in the US, and although it’s been almost seven months since I competed in my final match, I reckon I could get you a tryout in Sin City, if you’re interested.’
Lowri: ‘Yes, I would definitely be interested in that - very much so.’
Simon: ‘Alright, great. If you give me your phone number, I’ll give you mine, and then I’ll get in touch with the powers that be over there, to see if I can pull some strings and get you a match.’
Lowri: ‘Okay, thanks.’
Lowri and Simon take out their respective mobile phones, and exchange numbers.
Simon: ‘Right, I probably ought to finish off my shopping and get home, before my wife starts to wonder where I am.’
Lowri: ‘And I should probably go and find Adam - I don’t want him to think that I’ve abandoned him.’
Simon chuckles.
Lowri: ‘I would like to ask you one more thing though.’
Simon: ‘What’s that?’
Lowri: ‘I was wondering, would it be possible for me to meet up with you at some point, to pick your brain about wrestling?’
It is now Simon’s turn to nod his head.
Simon: ‘Yeah, of course; you’ve got my number now, so give me a text to let me know when would be good for you, and we can try to arrange something in an evening, or at a weekend.’
Lowri: ‘Okay, will do.’
Simon glances at his shopping trolley, before looking back to Lowri.
Simon: ‘Alright, well, it was good to meet you, Lowri. And tell Adam that he should buy Foster’s, rather than Carlsberg.’
Simon’s advice causes Lowri to laugh.
Lowri: ‘Thanks, Simon - I will. And it was good to meet you, too.’
Lowri and Simon say their farewells to one another, and they then go their separate ways, bringing their chance encounter to an end.
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Rab #10
Dec 8, 2016 19:38:00 GMT -5
Post by David on Dec 8, 2016 19:38:00 GMT -5
The scene opens to show Rab McKinley stood atop Mount Lee, with his back to the camera, looking down on the Hollywood sign.
‘If 3GW was a play, then the Red Carpet Rumble match would be the final scene of the first act.’
Rab - who is wearing a pair of white shorts and a black t-shirt - turns around to face the camera.
‘Now I’m not much of a theatregoer…’
Rab pauses, before making a remark in a sarcastic tone.
‘...I’m sure that revelation will come as a great surprise to all of you…’
He smiles wryly, and then continues.
‘...but I know enough to be aware that the final act of a play is usually when the protagonist prevails. However, this is my video, which means that right now, I’m the protagonist, and I plan on having this play follow a different structure: the script I’ve drafted has me ending the first act by triumphing in the Red Carpet Rumble, with the subsequent acts then featuring me defending the Paramount Championship against all manner of antagonists - I think that’s a play that would be well-received by critics and the public alike.’
Rab rubs his chin.
‘Following a tricky initial period in 3GW, I’m now heading into the Red Carpet Rumble with some momentum on my side, after having won each of my last three matches - perhaps I’m not as average as Ms. Kaiser made me out to be, after all.’
Rab smirks.
‘How much that will count for in the Red Carpet Rumble remains to be seen though, as this of course won’t be like any other match that I’ve competed in previously. The thing that will have perhaps the biggest effect on my chances of winning the Red Carpet Rumble is when I enter the match: if I’m drawn to enter the match the early on, then I'll have a long night ahead of me, whereas if I'm fortunate enough to enter the match near to the end, then the task will be less difficult. Regardless of when I enter the match though, my intention will remain the same, which simply put, is to win, and walk out as the inaugural 3GW Paramount Champion.’
There is a brief pause, before Rab continues.
‘Momentum isn’t what’s going to determine the outcome of this match.’
Rab shakes his head.
‘Removing the last two letters from momentum leaves you with another word: moment. Throughout the Red Carpet Rumble, every participant will have critical moments, and the person who copes with those moments the best will be the one that wins; when you have the opportunity to eliminate someone from the match, can you make the most of it? On the other hand, just when it seems like you’re about to be eliminated, can you find a way to avoid that happening, and instead keep your chances of winning alive?’
Rab shrugs.
‘I think I can safely say that there won’t be anyone in this match as strong as me, which means that there isn’t anyone in the match that I won’t be able to throw over the top rope. I’m not so misguided though as to think that no-one is going to have what it takes to be able to eliminate me, but if it was to come down to a test of strength, I’m confident that there would only be one winner: me.’
Rab nods.
‘I assume you’ve all heard of the irresistible force paradox. Well, looking at the 3GW roster, there’s no greater physical force in 3GW than me, and I’m yet to see someone that could be classed as an immovable object, so I think I have a decent shot at winning on Sunday.’
Rab puts his hands on his hips.
‘To win the Red Carpet Rumble, I’ll have to outlast nineteen opponents, including a mystery participant. When Amanda Johnson tried asking Jordan Cain’s assistant, Lindsay Harrington, who that person will be, Ms. Harrington’s reply began with “Oh sweetie;” was that a hint as to the identity of the mystery participant? I mean, she seemed to put a specific emphasis on those words, which made me think of a particular shade of red, and a certain female wrestler that calls everyone “sweetie.”’
Rab smirks again.
‘Maybe I’m completely wrong; I’ll find out soon enough, I guess.’
He then crosses his arms.
‘At present, I’m stood on top of this mountain, looking down on Los Angeles; come the end of the Red Carpet Rumble, I aim to be stood on top of the 3GW mountain, looking down on everyone else; it won’t come easy, but then nothing worth having does - and the Paramount Championship is definitely something worth having; see you on Sunday.’
With Rab staring confidently towards the camera, the scene fades to black.
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Post by David on Nov 15, 2016 18:16:08 GMT -5
The scene opens to show the beer garden outside the Wirtshaus restaurant and pub in Los Angeles. Sat at one of the tables, and wearing a pair of black shorts and a replica Scotland football jersey, is Rab McKinley. ‘Alright there! How’s it going? You join me as I continue my tour of the many drinking spots that there are to be found in Los Angeles.’In front of Rab, on the table, is a pint glass containing an indeterminable beer; he wraps his hand around the glass, and raises it. ‘Cheers.’He then gulps down some of his drink, before placing the glass back down on the table. ‘This particular pub is a German pub, and my inspiration for coming here - if you hadn’t already guessed - is the fact that Germany is the homeland of my next opponent, Avaset Kaiser. This will be the third match pitting me against someone making their debut in 3GW, and after having failed to win either of the previous two, I definitely wish to avoid an unwanted hat-trick, and instead hand Avaset a loss in her first match in 3GW.’Rab rubs his chin. ‘I believe I’m right in saying that the first match of Avaset’s career came only as recently as the end of August, and she has already developed quite a reputation for herself - only two and a half months into her career, and she seems to be doing a good job of living up to her family name. I mean, I’m far from the most knowledgeable person about wrestling, but even I’ve heard of the Kaiser family.’He nods. ‘Having a well-known surname can bring with it its own pressure, although that’s not something I have to worry about: being a McKinley, it’s more a case of living down to your name than up to it - our name certainly doesn’t mean much in the world of wrestling; could a McKinley possibly defeat a Kaiser? Stick around, because on Thursday evening, it could very well happen - especially if I have anything to say about it.’Rab pauses to drink some more of his beer. ‘I think it’s about time a Scot got the better of a German in a sporting contest. The thought of Germany versus Scotland has me casting my mind back to two matches between the countries on the football pitch in the past two years - and two narrow, if not unexpected, losses for Scotland; does anyone expect anything other than another German win this Thursday?’He shrugs. ‘I guess Andy Murray has probably beaten a German somewhere along the way, but I’m not sure - I don’t really care about tennis. In fact, I think a Scot being the number one tennis player in the world may actually be one of the harbingers of the apocalypse. Wrestling might not have its own rankings system, but if it did, I know I would have a long way to go - there would be a lot of people ahead of me. I’ve won my last two matches though, so I am at least moving in the right direction, and a win on Thursday will continue my upward mobility. Plus, like I said, it’s about time a Scot got the better of a German.’Rab takes another drink from his glass of beer. ‘Avaset Kaiser has a couple of nicknames: “The Crown Jewel” and “The Killer Queen.” Now, if you want to hear my opinion on nicknames, go back and watch the video I recorded a few months ago ahead of a match I had in Lion’s Den against Miles Bishop, in which I talked about his nicknames. To be fair, I know that “The Killer Queen” is a title Avaset earned by winning a tournament elsewhere, but it’s up to me to prevent her from having things go all her way in 3GW, which I suppose means that I need to be the Queen Killer.’There is a small smirk from Rab. ‘On second thought, I just need to be a conqueror, or a conquistador - something along those lines; I don’t need to kill Avaset, I just need to overcome her.’Rab takes a breath. ‘I know that “The Crown Jewel” has her sights set on ruling over 3GW, but I’m from the UK, and one constitutional monarchy is enough for me. Avaset may want to claim another throne for herself, but I don’t have any such long-term goals - I just want to drink alcohol, win my matches, and see where that gets me. For now, my only immediate goal is to win this match on Thursday; I’ll see you out there, Avaset.’As Rab reaches for his pint glass again, the scene fades to black.
Click here for the original version.
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Rab #9
Nov 15, 2016 18:15:52 GMT -5
Post by David on Nov 15, 2016 18:15:52 GMT -5
The scene opens to show the beer garden outside the Wirtshaus restaurant and pub in Los Angeles. Sat at one of the tables, and wearing a pair of black shorts and a replica Scotland football jersey, is Rab McKinley. ‘Awrite there! Hou’s it gaun? Ye join me as Ah continue mah toor ay th' mony drinking' spots 'at thaur ur tae be foond in Los Angeles.’In front of Rab, on the table, is a pint glass containing an indeterminable beer; he wraps his hand around the glass, and raises it. ‘Cheers.’He then gulps down some of his drink, before placing the glass back down on the table. ‘Thes particular pub is a German pub, an' mah inspiration fur comin' haur - if ye hadn’t awreddy guessed - is th' fact 'at Germany is th' homelain ay mah next opponent, Avaset Kaiser. Thes will be th' third match pittin' me against someain makin' their debut in 3GW, an' efter havin' failed tae win either ay th' previoos two, Ah definitely wish tae avoid an unwanted hat-trick, an' insteid hain Avaset a loss in 'er first match in 3GW.’Rab rubs his chin. ‘Ah believe I’m reit in sayin' 'at th' first match ay Avaset’s career cam only as recently as th' end ay August, an' she has awreddy developed quite a reputation fur herself - only two an' a half months intae 'er career, an' she seems tae be daein' a guid job ay livin' up tae 'er family nam. Ah mean, I’m far frae th' most knowledgeable person abit wrestlin', but e'en I’ve heard ay th' Kaiser family.’He nods. ‘Havin' a well-knoon surnam can brin' wi' it its ain pressure, althoogh that’s nae somethin' Ah hae tae worry aboot: bein' a McKinley, it’s mair a case ay livin' doon tae yer nam than up tae it - uir nam certainly doesn’t mean much in th' warld ay wrestling; coods a McKinley possibly defeat a Kaiser? Stick aroond, coz oan Thursday evening, it coods huir very well happen - especially if Ah hae anythin' tae say abit it.’Rab pauses to drink some more of his beer. ‘Ah hink it’s abit time a Scot got th' better ay a German in a sportin' contest. Th' thooght ay Germany versus Scotland has me castin' mah min' back tae two matches atween th' coontries oan th' football pitch in th' pest two years - an' two narraw, if nae unexpected, losses fur Scotland; diz anyain expect anythin' other than anither German win thes Thursday?’He shrugs. ‘Ah guess Andy Murray has probably beaten a German somewhaur alang th' way, but I’m nae sure - Ah don’t really caur abit tennis. In fact, Ah hink a Scot bein' th' number one tennis player in th' warld may actually be one ay th' harbingers ay th' apocalypse. Wrestlin' might nae hae its ain rankings system, but if it did, Ah ken Ah woods hae a lang way tae go - thaur woods be a lot ay fowk aheid ay me. I’ve won mah lest two matches though, sae Ah am at leest movin' in th' reit direction, an' a win oan Thursday will continue mah upward mobility. Plus, like Ah said, it’s abit time a Scot got th' better ay a German.’Rab takes another drink from his glass of beer. ‘Avaset Kaiser has a coople ay nicknames: “The Crown Jewel” an' “The Killer Queen.” Noo, if ye want tae hear mah opinion oan nicknames, go back an' watch th' video Ah recorded few months ago aheid ay a match Ah hud in Lion’s Den against Miles Bishop, in which Ah talked abit his nicknames. Tae be fair, Ah ken 'at “The Killer Queen” is a title Avaset earned by winnin' a toornament elsewhaur, but it’s up tae me tae prevent 'er frae havin' things go aw 'er way in 3GW, which Ah suppose means 'at Ah need tae be th' Queen Killer.’There is a small smirk from Rab. ‘Oan second thooght, Ah jist need tae be a conquerur, ur a conquistadur - somethin' alang those lines; Ah don’t need tae kill Avaset, Ah jist need tae overcome 'er.’Rab takes a breath. ‘Ah ken 'at “The Crown Jewel” has 'er sights sit oan rulin' ower 3GW, but I’m frae th' UK, an' one constitutional monarchy is enaw fur me. Avaset may want tae claeem anither thrain fur herself, but Ah don’t hae onie sic' long-term goals - Ah jist want tae drink alcohol, win mah matches, an' see whaur 'at gits me. Fur noo, mah only immediate goal is tae win thes match oan Thursday; I’ll see ye it thaur, Avaset.’As Rab reaches for his pint glass again, the scene fades to black.
Click here for the English version.
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Post by David on Oct 31, 2016 18:00:46 GMT -5
The scene opens to show Rab stood by Long Beach Shoreline Marina, with Rainbow Lagoon Park visible in the background. ‘Happy Monday. I would say happy Halloween, but I’ve never really been one to get excited about Halloween - I don’t need a reason to drink, I’m British - so yeah, happy Monday.’Rab is wearing a pair of blue jeans and a black shirt. ‘Halloween is the one night of the year when my next opponent can go out in public without having to worry about people giving him strange looks because of his appearance.’Behind Rab, a group of people dressed as zombies shuffle past, in typical zombie manner; Rab turns to look at them. ‘Kind of like that lot.’He then looks back to the camera. ‘I say this assuming the Fallen Angel wears that face paint of his constantly, but I could of course be wrong: he could look completely different when he goes out in public. Besides, I probably shouldn’t be passing comment on how he chooses to dress, as what matters most to me is what he can do in the ring, and whether or not I can beat him - I reckon I can, but it’s up to me to prove it.’Rab rubs his chin for a moment, before continuing. ‘So, Fallen Angel, welcome to 3GW. I saw your debut match two weeks ago, and you put in a decent showing, but ultimately, you still lost. Now, losing to Echo Rigby isn’t anything to be ashamed of, but the outcome of that match does at least mean you already know how it feels to be defeated inside a 3GW ring, and that’s a feeling I intend to have you get reacquainted with on Thursday evening.’Rab smiles wryly. ‘I need to ask about the name, though. Do you call yourself the Fallen Angel because you think you’re God’s gift to wrestling? Or do you have an even greater opinion of yourself than that - do you think you’re God’s gift to the world as a whole?’There is a shrug of the shoulders from Rab. ‘I went back and watched what you had to say to Echo, ahead of your match with her, as I thought maybe that would give me a better understanding of who you are, and what you’re about, but honestly, most of what you said went over my head, and it just left me more confused than I was beforehand.’Rab scratches his head. ‘I’ve got some friends who act like they’re God’s gift to women, and it’s always amusing on nights out to see them get brought down to earth, when they get turned down as they try to pull a girl. Well, Fallen Angel, on Thursday, I’m going to bring you down to earth, and puncture that messiah complex of yours, by dropping you on your head.’He then smirks. ‘Also, while I remember, apparently you’re from Parts Unknown - I think that’s somewhere in the Highlands, isn’t it? I’m sure it’s somewhere between Aberdeen and Dundee. Have you ever been to Edinburgh?’There is a short pause, before Rab continues. ‘No? That’s too bad. You would fit right in with some of the pretentious idiots who come to my hometown every August for the Edinburgh Festival - the kind of people that my friends and I enjoy giving a good kicking when they step out of line. Don’t worry though, Fallen Angel, because when you get in that ring with me, I’ll show you exactly what you’ve been missing out on - you’ll get the full Edinburgh Festival experience, Rab McKinley style: an uppercut here, a suplex there - it’ll be just like being in a pub on Princes Street.’Rab winks. ‘In all honesty, Fallen Angel, I don’t really care who you are, or where you’re from, or why you dress the way you do, all I really care about is beating you in our match. You see, my first two matches in 3GW didn’t exactly go the way I would’ve liked them to, and after defeating Ethan Thompson - the second - in my last match, to finally put a mark in the win column, I have no desire whatsoever to go back to losing.’Rab shakes his head. ‘I don’t know why you’re in 3GW - again, I don’t really care - but I’m here to try to have a successful career as a professional wrestler. It’s been a bit of a mixed bag so far, but I’m staying positive, and I’m not about to let some face painted fool bring me down. Happy Monday? Perhaps, but I intend to have a very happy Thursday.’As Rab stares towards the camera, the scene fades to black.
Click here for the original version.
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Rab #8
Oct 31, 2016 18:00:23 GMT -5
Post by David on Oct 31, 2016 18:00:23 GMT -5
The scene opens to show Rab stood by Long Beach Shoreline Marina, with Rainbow Lagoon Park visible in the background. ‘Happy Monday. Ah woods say happy Halloween, but I’ve ne'er really bin one tae gie excited abit Halloween - Ah don’t need a reason tae drink, I’m British - sae yeah, happy Monday.’Rab is wearing a pair of blue jeans and a black shirt. ‘Halloween is th' one nicht ay th' year when mah next opponent can go out in public withit havin' tae worry abit fowk givin' heem strange looks coz ay his appearance.’Behind Rab, a group of people dressed as zombies shuffle past, in typical zombie manner; Rab turns to look at them. ‘Kin' ay loch 'at lot.’He then looks back to the camera. ‘Ah say thes assumin' th' Fallen Angel wears 'at face paint ay his constantly, but Ah coods ay coorse be wrong: he coods look completely different when he goes out in public. Besides, Ah probably shooldn’t be passin' comment oan hoo he chooses tae dress, as whit matters most tae me is whit he can dae in th' rin', an' whether ur nae Ah can beat heem - Ah reckon Ah can, but it’s up tae me tae prove it.’Rab rubs his chin for a moment, before continuing. ‘Sae, Fallen Angel, welcome tae 3GW. Ah saw yer debut match two weeks ago, an' ye pit in a decent showin', but ultimately, ye still lost. Noo, losin' tae Echo Rigby isn’t anythin' tae be ashamed ay, but th' ootcome ay 'at match diz at leest mean ye awreddy ken hoo it feels tae be defeated inside a 3GW rin', an' that’s a feelin' Ah intend tae hae ye gie reacquainted wi' oan Thursday evening.’Rab smiles wryly. ‘Ah need tae ask abit th' nam, though. Dae ye caa yerself th' Fallen Angel coz ye hink yoo’re God’s gift tae wrestlin'? Ur dae ye hae an e'en greater opinion ay yerself than 'at - dae ye hink yoo’re God’s gift tae th' warld as a whole?’There is a shrug of the shoulders from Rab. ‘Ah went back an' watched whit ye hud tae say tae Echo, aheid ay yer match wi' 'er, as Ah thooght mebbe 'at woods gezz a better understandin' ay who ye ur, an' whit yoo’re abit, but honestly, most ay whit ye said went ower mah heed, an' it jist left me mair confused than Ah was beforehain.’Rab scratches his head. ‘I’ve got some friends who act loch they’re God’s gift tae women, an' it’s always amusin' oan nights out tae see them gie brooght doon tae earth, when they gie turned doon as they try tae pull a lass. Weel, Fallen Angel, oan Thursday, I’m gonnae brin' ye doon tae earth, an' puncture 'at messiah complex ay yoors, by droppin' ye oan yer heed.’He then smirks. ‘Also, while Ah remember, apparently yoo’re frae Parts Unknown - Ah hink that’s somewhaur in th' Highlands, isn’t it? I’m sure it’s somewhaur atween Aberdeen an' Dundee. Hae ye ever bin tae Edinburgh?’There is a short pause, before Rab continues. ‘Nae? That’s tay bad. Ye woods fit reit in wi' some ay th' pretentioos bampots who come tae mah hometoon every August fur th' Edinburgh Festival - th' kin' ay fowk 'at mah friends an' Ah enjoy givin' a guid kickin' when they step out ay line. Don’t worry though, Fallen Angel, coz when ye gie in 'at rin' wi' me, I’ll show ye exactly whit yoo’ve bin missin' out oan - yoo’ll gie th' foo Edinburgh Festival experience, Rab McKinley style: an uppercut haur, a suplex thaur - it’ll be jist loch bein' in a pub oan Princes Street.’Rab winks. ‘In aw honesty, Fallen Angel, Ah don’t really caur who ye ur, ur whaur yoo’re frae, ur wa ye dress th' way ye dae, aw Ah really caur abit is beatin' ye in uir match. Ye see, mah first two matches in 3GW didn’t exactly go th' way Ah woold’ve liked them tae, an' efter defeatin' Ethan Thompson - th' second - in mah lest match, tae finally pit a mark in th' win column, Ah hae nae desire whatsoever tae go back tae losin'.’Rab shakes his head. ‘Ah don’t ken wa yoo’re in 3GW - again, Ah don’t really caur - but I’m haur tae try tae hae a successful career as a professional wrestler. It’s bin a bit ay a mixed bag sae far, but I’m stayin' positife, an' I’m nae abit tae let some face painted rockit brin' me doon. Happy Monday? Perhaps, but Ah intend tae hae a very happy Thursday.’As Rab stares towards the camera, the scene fades to black.
Click here for the English version.
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