Backstage after Pride

[Top Tier Terry]

Backstage just after the taping of Pride ends. A camera man finds Terrence Tillman being looked at by medical staff. He's holding an ice pack on his neck with one hand and caressing his midsection with the other. The medical examiner is looking into Tillman's eyes with a pen light checking his responses. Tillman has a dejected look on his face as if he is trying to hold back the tears while at the same time trying to hold in his guts with his arm. The examiner finishes his exam and pats Tillman on the shoulder before walking away. Just then a cell phone rings. Tillman sets down his ice pack and opens his gear bag. He pulls out his phone which is still ringing. He sees who's calling and anxiety rushes through his body. He takes a deep breath and answers.

Tillman: Hello...hey...hey mom...no I'm not...I'm not busy. Yes that was tonight...I already did...ummm...no no mom I didn't win. No I'm okay...he didn't hurt me...too much. (wincing as he tries to position himself in the steel chair to alleviate some of the pain.) Mom I'm fine really...I just think I made a mistake...no not just in the match...but being in it to begin with...I mean this guy was ridiculous mom I tried, and I tried...(visibly shaken Tillman tries his best to not show to much emotion. He doesn't want his mother to worry.) I just don't know what else I could have done mom...I don't think I'm ready for this...no I...yes but...mom you don't under...

For a moment Tillman falls silent. It's obvious his mother has taken over the conversation.  

Tillman: No mom you didn't raise a quitter...I know I know...Well it's kinda hard to walk around with my head held high at this point mom...You think so...I mean I think they appreciated it. I tried mom I gave it my all...Yes I remember the difference...the champions always get back up...I said the champions always get back up...I'm not saying it any louder mom...but I see what you're saying...thanks mom...I needed this...yes...yes mom I'm eating just fine...my underwear...really? I can do my own laundry...you are not flying all the way up here to do that...I...I have to go mom...mom...MOM...I have to go...love you...bye. 

Tillman ends the call. His distressed look suddenly lightened. Still in pain however he slowly stands up and gingerly hoists his bag over his shoulder. He grabs his ice pack placing it back on his neck and makes his way to the arena exit.