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Post by FGA Office on Jul 11, 2017 3:12:17 GMT -5
DDT3 Press Conference
Liacouras Center
Philadelphia, PA
July 22, 2017 (in character)
Start Time: 11 am EST
Invitees: All remaining teams
Deadline: July 20 at 9pm EST The following is a press conference for the 2017 Dynamic Duos Tag Team Tournament. The names listed above are the wrestlers who have been invited to this press conference. For reporters, you are more than welcome to use FGA's (Spencer Burke and Jessie Pederson). Or you can use your home fed's interviewers if you would prefer. Or you can make up your own. Doesn't matter. IC, this press conference takes place on Saturday, July 22, 2017 at 11 am EST. The first round matches will be taking place later on that same night. |
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Post by El Dragón on Jul 16, 2017 0:06:21 GMT -5
As everybody waits on everybody else, "Heart Killer" by Gossling starts playing from, once again, a tiny corner of the room. Most of the people in the room either shake their heads or roll their eyes while some still look to the source of the music, even though they should already know by now who it is. Well, to be fair, no one knows who he is, at least not his name. Everyone just knows him as the tiny Mexican man in the suit who, at the last press conference, held up the same boombox when Julian Tijerina introduced Faye Valentine and Kimiko, Serpent's Touch, to the room. Not much has changed with the mysterious man, he's still grinning from ear to ear, excited to be a part of things, except maybe for his tie. Last time, he was wearing a simple dark purple tie. This time, he's wearing a Spider-Man tie.
Julian Tijerina: Ladies and gentlemen, we'll be cutting to the chase this time. We know you're all eager to ask your future Dynamic Duos Tournament winners a lot of questions, so without further ado, here they are! Please put your hands together, and if you have dumb questions those hands to your mouth the entire time, for Faye Valentine and Kimiko, Serpent's Touch!
Like last time, Faye Valentine and Kimiko take their place beside Julian. The strange Mexican man stops the music at the same time as well. He keeps his oblivious, childish grin, and as quickly as he made his entrance, the quicker everyone else in the room shifts their momentary attention from him and their full attention towards the three people in front of them. Julian surrenders the microphone to Faye Valentine who is sporting a sexy, tight-fitting, sleeveless crimson dress. El Guapo fixes his tie, smirking at the ladies seated in front of them, while Kimiko, fully dressed in her wrestling gear, just stares at everyone else.
Faye Valentine: All right, ladies and gentlemen, you know how this goes. You raise your hands if you have questions you want to ask, I'll point at you to mean you can ask your question, and so on and so forth...
Valentine searches for someone in the seats, and when she finally spots him, smirks with a raised eyebrow.
Faye Valentine: Hey, Ross! Ross McIntosh, everybody! From Wrestling Culture, right? Julian tells me that's like a cult-favorite online publication that covers any and all of professional wrestling. That's word for word.
Valentine turns to Julian who nods at her, grinning from ear to ear. She quickly turns back to Ross.
Faye Valentine: You have any question you'd like to ask, buddy?
McIntosh squirms in his seat. He looks at Kimiko whose eyes tell him how much she wants to eat him in a non-sexual and more violent way. McIntosh turns to Valentine and frantically shakes his head. Julian tries to keep himself from smirking but fails.
Faye Valentine: Yeah, that's what I thought. Last week didn't go well for you, did it, buddy?
McIntosh buries his face in his notebook to avoid any eye contact with any member of the team. Kimiko continues glaring at him. If she had lasers in her eyes, McIntosh would be on fire right now. Still grinning, Valentine gestures for hands to be raised, and once they go up in the air, goes on another search in the sea of raised hands. Her grin turns into a scowl when she spots Jessie Pederson.
Faye Valentine: Ugh, Jessie, this is Q & A for Serpent's Touch, Kimiko and my beautiful self. If you're just going to ask when Julian's taking you back to the Caribbean, you should do it privately. Don't you have his number yet?
Valentine turns to Julian who feigns ignorance, putting his hands up in defense. Blushing, Jessie also chooses to defend herself but verbally.
Jessie Pederson: Uhm, my question is actually for you, Serpent's Touch, Kimiko, nothing about Mr. Tijerina.
Valentine turns to Jessie again, eyebrow raised.
Faye Valentine: Mr. Tijerina? Is that what you call him in bed? Most people scream El Guapo because most people just wants to sleep with a gimmick...
The crowd laughs while Julian frowns. Jessie swallows air, turning even redder by the second.
Faye Valentine: ...but I guess to each their own. I bet you're a screamer.
No longer wanting to prolong her again, Jessie stands straight up out of her seat.
Jessie Pederson: Can I ask my question?
Valentine grows quiet, eyebrow raised again, eyes on Jessie.
Faye Valentine: Did I point at you?
Everyone grows quiet. Kimiko continues pinning down McIntosh with her glare as Jessie's heart starts racing fast. Thankfully, Julian saves her by killing the intimidating silence, much to Valentine's annoyance, with a fake cough. This brings Jessie out of her trance.
Jessie Pederson: You did mention my name, I think that's good enough.
Before Valentine could counter the argument, Julian coughs again. This makes Valentine turn to him. Julian looks at her, shaking his head intentionally at her. Annoyed, Valentine heaves a sigh and nods at Jessie, allowing her to do her job and ask her question.
Jessie Pederson: After the conclusion of Round One of the Dynamic Duos Tournament, a lot of people have been making comparisons between Serpent's Touch and Smart Style, Shintaro Majima and Kimiko, Mark Bisley and Faye Valentine. It could be argued that Serpent's Touch is a female version of Smart Style and Smart Style is a male version of Serpent's Touch, with a myriad of similarities in style and approach existing between the two teams. With Smart Style being your team's first obstacle in the tournament, what do you think will your team's advantage be heading into its first match in the tournament?
Valentine smirks at Jessie, nodding her head, seemingly liking her question.
Faye Valentine: Well, aside from the fact that compared to Smart Style, Serpent's Touch is a tad more well-rested heading into our bout, we also have a contingency plan.
Valentine points to Julian, much to the crowd's amusement. Everyone laughs at the gesture, even Julian. Well, everyone except Kimiko. McIntosh's insides must be on fire right now.
Faye Valentine: And you of all people should know first-hand how spicy El Guapo's venom is, amirite?
Julian's finally had enough, ripping the microphone out of Valentine's hands. Valentine continues to smile at Jessie, however, not taking her eyes off her. Jessie sighs, a little offended at Valentine's antics. Well, maybe more than a little. Julian immediately thanks Jessie and segues to another question from the crowd.
Julian Tijerina: Muchas gracias, Jessie Pederson of FGA. Does anyone else have a question? What about you?
Julian points to a giddy Asian girl who excitedly rises as soon as she can.
Kairi Ayano: Hello! Thank you for this opportunity. I am Kairi Ayano of Tekken Puroresu. I have a question for Kimiko.
Julian and Valentine stare at each other ominously. Kairi does not see this and goes on to directly talk to Kimiko who turns to her, frowning. Kairi keeps her smile despite this.
Kairi Ayano: Anata wa chimu no saisho no tonamento de Majima Shintaro no tsuyoi sutairu no sukuinushi de, nakama no nihonjin resura ni chokumen shimasu. Nihon no fan no oku wa, kono shiai o tanoshiminishiteimasu. Sugu ni Nihon no ni tsu no besuto no ichi tai ichi no shiai ni naru koto o negatte imasu. Kore wa dono yo ni anata o kanji sasemasu ka?
Both Julian and Valentine turn to Kimiko, both anticipating something terrible to happen, with Valentine readying her body just in case she needs to put it between Kimiko and another reporter once more. Surprisingly, Kimiko answers the question calmly.
Kimiko: Kono kikai ni, watashitachi no resura ga dono yo ni natta no ka, fan o Nihon ni modosu koto o koei ni omoimasu. Watashi wa betsu no nihonjin resura to ichi tai ichi de tatakau koto o nozonde imasuga, kono taikai de kono kikai o saidaigen ni katsuyo shi, Majima Shintaro o uchikachimasu. Hebi no tatchi ga saigo no chimu ni narimasu.
Surprising everyone even more, Kimiko bows to the Kairi, showing her respect. Kairi bows back before taking her seat. Julian is caught speechless, much to Valentine's surprise, so she grabs the microphone from his hands to snap everyone back to reality.
Faye Valentine: All right. Well, that does it for us, I think. Serpent's Touch out!
Valentine throws the microphone over her head and to the back, not really caring if anyone catches it. If someone does, however, then she guesses it'll be their turn to speak. She grabs Julian by the arm and leads him to the back, with Kimiko following suit. Fan girls start cheering for Julian but grows quiet right away when Kimiko turns to them with one of her death glares.
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Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
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Post by Deleted on Jul 17, 2017 15:52:03 GMT -5
FEMALE REPORTER #1: I have a question for Team LDFC Alumni, Jensen Banks and The Crimson Baroness?
TCB, who had been checking her phone the entire time, not really paying attention to what the others were saying, finally looks up. Jensen, who has his feet up on the table and is leaning back in his seat, finally removes his feet off the table and leans forward.
JENSEN BANKS: Shoot.
FEMALE REPORTER #1: Does it seem very weird to you that Mr. Asherman and the rest of the board picked you two out of all of the LDFC alumni? I think it’s safe to say that while you two were successful in your own right, one being a former LDFC tag team champion and one being a former LDFC Old North champion, but why would they pair the two of you instead of two people who don’t have a long history of disliking each other?
Jensen looks over at TCB, who rolls her eyes and looks away.
JENSEN BANKS: You want to answer this or should I?
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: After you, sweetie...
She motions for him to take a swing at it first, getting him to clear his throat before he responds.
JENSEN BANKS: I think we were paired together because we don’t like each other, that’s for sure. But it also helps brings viewers in, doesn’t it? I mean, I understand what Lenny and the boys were thinking. Put these two together, never tell them who they’re teaming with and let them find out after they’ve signed a contract that they can’t get out of, then throw them out there and see how they’re do. Worst case scenario, we’re a one show entertainment act of two people constantly butting heads while in the middle of the match. Best case scenario, we’re an unlikely duo that’s constantly bickering and yet constantly winning, something that would also get the fans to tune in. I’m sure everyone here expects one of us to turn on the other, right?
There’s some murmurs thrown around before Banks nods.
JENSEN BANKS: Yeah, that’s what I thought. So I guess the best answer I can give you is that we were likely not the ideal team to represent LDFC, but we sure as hell were up there as the most entertaining option due to our past.
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: I assumed it was a random pairing, to be honest, sweetie. Two names out of the hat type of deal…
She shrugs, looking out across the room to see if there’s any of the FGA board members in attendance. There aren’t.
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: Otherwise somebody has a very warped sense of humor. Jensen, sweetie, do you think they’re just waiting for that inevitable betrayal; that moment when you’ve got our opponents on the ropes and you’re ready to hit the Bank Shot before you fall down, clutching Li’l Jensen after a low blow? And I just roll out of the ring and leave you to the wolves…
JENSEN BANKS: Not that you’ve put any thought into that.
She just smirks, resting her chin on one hand as she looks across at Jensen.
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: Never even crossed my mind, sweetie. But I’ve realised something recently…
TCB reaches under the desk and pulls out two title belts; the World Crown Tag Team Title, and the SAP International Tag Team Title, both of which she holds as a member of the Small Boob Wrecking Crew alongside Annie Zellor. Jensen facepalms, literally, as he ends up pinching the bridge of his nose between thumb and forefinger.
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: ...do you have something to say, sweetie?
JENSEN BANKS: No, no. Keep swinging that metaphorical dick around, Katie.
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: Don’t be jealous, sweetie, you’ll have a tag title yourself soon enough. But these? They made me realise that I love winning, and holding title belts. So if that means I have to refrain from low-blowing Jensen for...four matches…
JENSEN BANKS: This actually hurts you to say, doesn’t it?
He laughs, but TCB doesn’t look amused; the pain is etched on her face as she fails to continue the sentence, and instead slumps back in her seat. Some of the reporters laugh as well, and Jessie Pederson stands up to ask the next question.
JESSIE PEDERSON: Nice to see you two again. Tonight you’re facing off against two of the SSWA Trios Champions: is that weighing heavily on your mind, or what are your feelings about your upcoming match?
Jessie stays standing, waiting for her answer as Jensen and TCB turn to one another.
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: Is it my turn to go first?
JENSEN BANKS: Go for it…
THE CRIMSON BARONESS:I’m sure they’re very proud of everything they’ve accomplished in their careers, and I’m sure they’re happy they beat Hereditary Beerage … or whatever those weirdos were called. But Chainsaw & Rowe? I probably feel like they did at the first press conference, sweetie: they don’t bother me, they don’t concern me, I’m not looking forward to having to face them, put up with them, tolerate them, or anything of the sort. And they probably feel the same way about me.
TCB shrugs again, staring straight at Jessie as she speaks.
THE CRIMSON BARONESS:They’ve gone around the world, won belts on all continents, faced tougher sons of bitches than us two … blah, blah, blah. The only thing about this match that excites me - and no, it’s not getting to team with my good friend Jensen Banks - it’s, and speaking as a former NKP Tag Team Champion and current WCS Tag Team Champion, the prospect of beating two thirds of the SSWA Trios Champions. Actually that does sound good…
Jensen then clears his throat, taking TCB out of her little world that she seemed to be falling in.
JENSEN BANKS: I know that Holly Chainsaw and Kenzie Rowe are very much a threat. They’ve got the experience of working with one another, even if they originally were trying to kill each other before. But they put that past aside and managed to win the SSWA Trios championships. However, I see this as my chance at getting one back, so to speak.
Some people look around confused before Jensen continues.
JENSEN BANKS: Last time I was in the ring with those two, they had Izzy Anders by their side and I had to wrestle them in a 3-on-2 match with my good pal Mase by my side, mainly because someone decided to throw Tommy through a window right before the match. We lost that match, but this time, the odds are evened out. I got a partner that I can trust...probably, and I’m kicking one of them in the face by the end of the night.
Jessie sits down and a male reporter stands, tapping his pen on his pad.
MALE REPORTER #1: Is it going to be awkward for you if you win a tag team title with The Crimson Baroness before you win one with Mason?
JENSEN BANKS: Nope.
MALE REPORTER #1: Do you think there’s a chance of that happening?
Banks shrugs.
JENSEN BANKS: If that shithead Donald Trump can become President of the United States, I think anything can happen. I’m not really worried about that right now, I’m just trying to win this tournament and those FGA World Tag Team championships. You can ask me that question again after we beat Chainsaw and Rowe.
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: Why would that be awkward, sweetie?
Jensen goes to answer, but quickly sees that TCB was addressing the reporter.
MALE REPORTER #1: Uh, because he’s part of the Lax Bro Corps and--
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: And we’re rivals. Because we fought against each other on Tuesday night; because we’re facing each other again next Tuesday? Does that change the fact that I’m twice the wrestler that Butt Mason will ever be?
It’s Banks’s turn to roll his eyes.
JENSEN BANKS: You wish.
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: Facts, sweetie. Facts.
JENSEN BANKS: He’s better than yo--you know what, no, I’m not doing this right now. And I hope whoever made this team is happy with themselves.
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: I bet they’re laughing all the way to the bank…
MALE REPORTER #2: Excuse me, Ms. Baroness. Do you believe that the wrestling schedule you currently have for yourself may weaken your chances of surviving this tournament? Same question to you, Mr. Banks.
TCB looks to Jensen and just shrugs.
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: Not at all, sweetie. Is that something I should be concerned about?
JENSEN BANKS: Depends if you escape Summer Bash to be honest.
That causes TCB, literally cackles as Jensen looks less than impressed.
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: Thank you, sweetie, I needed that. But, seriously, no; I have my Subversion obligations and NKP, with some appearances in SAP now I’m one half of their tag team champions … but I don’t believe that’s more than what most of the participants here are doing. I mean, Mark Storm is just over there. Owen Gonsalves, Neal Durden practically kills himself every other week! Chris Madison is getting more matches scheduled each day.
JENSEN BANKS: You’re doing more than me, though.
THE CRIMSON BARONESS: Yes, but at least one of us wants to be a champion, sweetie.
JENSEN BANKS: I want to be a champion too; that’s the only reason I’m sitting here right now. It’s the only reason I’m tolerating you, Katie.
The mention of her real name causes TCB to glare at Jensen.
JENSEN BANKS: And putting up with your snide remarks, and your jokes. But make no mistake, whatever the reason we’re saddled together for this tournament, whatever sick joke the FGA head office wanted to play on us - I’m in this to win this. And Chainsaw and Rowe might be better friends than us, they might be more experienced as a team than us. They’re champions together! But I’m not letting you stop me from succeeding, Katie. I’m not letting you prevent me from becoming a champion…
With that, Jensen slams his hands down on the desk in order to push himself back to his feet. He walks away, leaving a smirking TCB behind. She excuses herself from the table, following Jensen away as the press conference continues.
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Izzy Anders
Established Name
Love, peace, and chicken grease.
Posts: 215 
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Post by Izzy Anders on Jul 18, 2017 15:08:27 GMT -5
The shutter of cameras, the buzzing of anxious reporters, and the different methods of note-taking didn’t stand a chance against the doors slamming open inside of the conference room. In the doorway, Artemis Kaiser stood with Salem Cartier by her side. Artemis, garbed in a black pantsuit, gave the reporters an onceover. Salem didn’t give them the time of day, heading up to her seat. Artemis followed suit, removing her sunglasses as she did. Once there, Artemis proceeded to speak to Salem, their words not picked by the audio feed. The supposed seriousness of the conversation became diluted by Salem’s reactions. Wild in nature, she scrunched her nose, shook her head disgustedly, and even stuck her tongue at her wife. Artemis pursed her lips and tapped on the microphone.
Artemis Kaiser: You may proceed with your questioning, everyone.
A reporter stood up, the same female that initiated the previous round of inquiries.
Female Reporter #1: Hi, I think the first question that we should get out the way is the obvious. Where has Salem Cartier been all the months. The police investigations and the apparent worry--
Artemis interrupted by raising her hand up.
Artemis Kaiser: Please refrain from asking more personal questions unless they pertain to this event.
The reporter was taken back by Artemis’s sharp answer, but she nodded.
Female Reporter #1: Switching topics then--I guess we ought to speak on the matter of your upcoming match. You both received a bye, but were put on the “doomed” side of the bracket. You already know that you’re facing the Godfathers of Wrestling, one of the sure favorites, but you seemed lax about it.
Artemis Kaiser: Lax?
She squinted annoyingly.
Artemis Kaiser: If either of us are lax about the Godfathers of Wrestling, then we’re fools and deserve everything that comes to us. They are the favorites, obviously. You put the Ace of FGA in line with one of the most legendary competitors of our time in a tag team, you have a monolithic duo. Now, add in the fact that they have teamed previously. That makes them worse. Finally, take the fact that Andreas and Chandler are like father and son and you get a tag team that can lay waste to anyone that put themselves up against. Chandler’s hitting his stride again with tremendous momentum after his godly match with Felicity Banks. Andreas Lasiewicz is...well, Andreas Lasiewicz. To tell you the honest truth, ma’am, I’m shivering---
There is some muttering among the crowd.
Artemis Kaiser: With antici-pation.
Female Reporter #1: Care to elaborate more on that?
Salem shook her head, not wanting Artemis to do so, but her wife didn’t listen.
Artemis Kaiser: Of course I am! I, Artemis Kaiser, am a tag team extraordinaire! To toot my own horn, I have successfully brought tag team success to each and every long team that I’ve been apart of. Now, one may bring up the fact that each of those tag teams ended in bloody war, but you cannot doubt that I excel in this realm, even more than my singles career.
She rose an open hand up to a visible height.
Artemis Kaiser: Dynamic Duos brings the strongest teams around to fight for a prestigious prize. I think that anyone should want to have an easy run through, but not I. I want to defeat everything great in this world to prove that I am the strongest there is. For Danse Macabre’s first opponents to be the Godfathers of Wrestling...I cannot help but grin madly at the prospect. All of us know what this is about. All of us are excited for this. That is why we’re the main event at Flashpoint. Our war will be the highlight of this tournament, and I can only hope that at the end of the war, Danse Macabre moves on. Our trek to victory by the defeat of the tournament favorites.
She clenched her fist, indicating her wish to crush the competition. The serious tone was then broken by a playful smile.
Artemis Kaiser: If only to mess up everyone’s brackets.
Salem Cartier: F**k the brackets!
She giggled lowly at Salem’s chiming in. She looked back at her wife, who simply beamed and went back to her bored expression. The reporter seemed satisfied, leading to another standing up.
Elena G. Musgrave: Hi, Elena Musgrave with APEX Magazine, we met before at the--
Elena interrupted herself.
Elena G. Musgrave: I just wanted to go more in on the match by bringing up this crucial detail.
The audience zeroed in on her words.
Elena G. Musgrave: The six star classic, “the best match of our generation”, as they call it. Kaiser vs. Lasiewicz, that victory of yours? Does it play a role into the preparation of this match at all?
Artemis shrugged.
Artemis Kaiser: I beat Andreas? What of it? Would you ask the same to Cassius Reed? Yes, it does play a role in this; everyone knows and some deny the importance of that match. To me? It just means that I have Andreas scouted, but there are two other people in this match. I dare say that the other man on the side of the ring is more dangerous than Andreas. No offense to the Morningstar--love you.
That stirred the pot a little given by the mutters.
Artemis Kaiser: Chandler Scott. What more can I say about him? I’ve already said that he’s the Ace of FGA. He put down Felicity Banks, the world champion of my home, HKW. I see this chance as redemption for our home. Salem and I are HKW loyals, wel, me more than her. She’s a former Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion, but I bleed HKW red. I beat Andreas at his strongest, beyond his Morningstar mode, and beyond anyone’s wants to see me fall. Chandler’s an unknown force. I’ve watched tape after tape and there’s only really two people that I’ve seen that put him down truly. Zero McHannon and his partner. I watched those matches closely to see the weaknesses and even if I found them, which I did, that doesn’t truly prepare me for the storm that is Chandler Scott. He’s younger, faster, and more active. Most of all, he’s far too adaptable. That’s why he was able to beat Felicity. To beat him would be avenge a loss that HKW needs to get back. He beat, in my opinion, our Ace. If I hope to one day become HKW’s Ace, then I need to put him down. It’ll be one of the most difficult things I’ll ever do, but we both know what’s at stake here. Isn’t that right, Salem?
Salem Cartier: Yeah, she’s right. Summary of it all, we can beat them obviously. We want to beat them. In my mind, we will beat them, even if they have to go down kicking and screaming~♪
Elena sits down after Salem’s words.
Jessie Pederson: Hey, Jessie Pederson, nice to make your acquaintance. I feel as if it’s important to speak of the future just a bit. If you beat the Godfathers of Wrestling, you have the threats of either the Upper Echelon or Blonde Ambition. They’re another reason why your part of the bracket is referred to as the “doomed” side. Thoughts?
Artemis Kaiser: Eh, I hope that Upper Echelon wins, because I want to fight Emilio again. If you don’t know, I’m out on a mission to beat the supposed Pillars of HKW, but this isn’t about HKW. It’s just an accompanying detail. If we beat the Godfathers of Wrestling, we might have to end up facing the squad that’s protecting Izzy Anders from getting her ass kicked. Now, before I get some passive aggressive tweets from either of those ladies, I know how good they are. Savannah Taylor is a wrestling machine right now, regardless of what everyone thinks. Her dubious actions in FGA shouldn’t shroud what she does in FFW. She’s the No Surrender Champion and the Pride Champion. Let me set this up for you. If Danse Macabre wins, they’d knocked off two of the best in the world. If they knock off Upper Echelon, they beat two more of the best in the world and in their company. If they beat Blonde Ambition, they knocked off the FGA Pride Champion and one of the best from EXODUS. If Danse Macabre wins the whole thing, we’d get a chance at beating the FGA Tag Team Champions.
She took a beat.
Artemis Kaiser: Out of the two potential teams, I’d enjoy beating Blonde Ambition. Salem’s--
Salem pounds on the table, which gets everyone’s attention. She takes a moment to let the gravity set in.
Salem Cartier: Doesn’t matter, both teams are lambs to the slaughter. But I’d enjoy beating the hell out of Savannah...for reasons y’all should know.
Artemis Kaiser: We’re both on the same train of thought, it seems. Anyways, we’ll sit comfortably knowing that two of the tournament’s biggest threats lie in our path if we win. In accordance to what I said earlier, I enjoy the prospect of fighting either for varying reasons. For anything past that, I think it’s bad luck to think too far in the future. It gets you off what’s right in front of you. It’d be unwise to do that for Chandler and Andreas, Uncle Andy gets salty when you don’t pay attention to him. You want to see my impression of him?
The audience didn’t get a chance to answer.
Artemis Kaiser: “...”
She...surprisingly had the look down perfectly, even scaring a weaker reporter in the back.
Artemis Kaiser: Since I don’t want to hold the world up anymore or say something that gets people salty, I’ll say this in conclusion.
The Kaiser clears her throat.
Artemis Kaiser: Everyone may be looking forward to the Godfathers of Wrestling beating us easily, but Danse Macabre have a reply to all those who thinks that and the Godfathers themselves.
Dramatic pause.
Artemis Kaiser: Can you survive what we plan on doing to you two?
Salem made a whooping noise as she realized that their part of the conference was over. She broke out of her aloof haze to get up. She tugged on Artemis’s arm, forcing her out of her chair. Reporters tried to get their attention, but they were dead set on leaving regardless of any questions that they had. |
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Post by Dreamscape on Jul 18, 2017 18:50:26 GMT -5
There’s a collective cheer from the crowd as Emilio Vialpando makes his way up to the stage, one that quickly turns to a chorus of boos as his tag partner, Jinzai, follows in suit. The two confident young men who call themselves “Upper Echelon” step onto the stage and each grab a mic, smirking to themselves as they take in the moment and the loud,, mixed reaction coming from the fans. Jinzai glances around, an arrogant smile making it’s way onto his features before he raises the mic up and begins to speak.
Jinzai Now… you guys know who we are, right? Who am I kidding, everyone in this ROOM knows who we are, and you know why we’re here. But for the uninitiated and uneducated few who don’t, allow me to have a few minutes of your time and get you up to speed.
Jinzai wraps an arm around Emilio’s shoulders, grinning madly.
Jinzai This man right here is The Main Event, El Serpentine, Mr. SHOW TIME, Hall of Famer and My Brother in all but blood, Emilio Vialpando. Me? I’m The Dragon, kiddies. HKW’s resident Supa Saiyajin Roze, Biter of the hand that feeds, living legend that kinda lives up to the legend, but ya can call me Jinzai Burakku. And we are… better than the next pair after us. But we’ll accept bein’ called UE for short.
Vialpando couldn’t help himself from laughing a bit after Jinzai’s introduction for the two. He looks up to the crowd and gives a light hearted wave.
Emilio Vialpando Hola. As you can see mi hermano es mucho happy about being here today and for the opportunity of being apart of this year’s Dynamic Duos Tournament. As well am I. I can’t wait to get inside that ring and put on an absolute show…
Emilio smirks and looks over to Jinzai.
Emilio Vialpando ...Well, we already knew that was going to happen anyways. Because every single time I step inside of a ring it’s must see action. And if you’re not able to see if for yourself then you’d be regretting that you can’t. Anyways. Let’s get this thing going, shall we?
Emilio looks around the reporters and looks to see Frontier Grappling Arts’ very own Jessie Pederson. He smiles seeing her familiar face and smile and nods to her.
Emilio Vialpando Jessie, you gotta question for us?
Jessie blushes and nods.
Jessie Penderson Yes, hello again Emilio. Nice to have you and Jinzai here in FGA once again. Last time we seen you here in our neck of the woods you were competing in Rey del Aire. You came close to winning it but you lost in an incredible match against the iconic Laurel Hardy in the finals of the tournament. Now we have you here in our third annual Dynamic Duos along with Hard Knox Wrestling’s Jinzai. What are you guys’ goals in this tournament?
The hall of fame wrestler sits back his chair and grabs the microphone as he does so.
Emilio Vialpando Well it sure as hell isn’t to come in second place again, that’s for sure. That just isn’t an option for us. We are the Upper Echelon and there’s nobody on this green earth that can compare to myself or Jin. I don’t care who you are or what you think you have done in your career, jaja. The truth of the matter is that you’re just not better than us by no means necessary. Our goals, Jessie? Or goals are to not only win Dynamic Duos but to put the world on notice across the whole board.
He looks around the room.
Emilio Vialpando You know who we both are. What we are capable of. The championships we have won. The top of the line matches we can put on night in y night out. You know that when we say something we mean it and it’s damn well true. I know there’s some in this tournament that might feel a certain kind of way about the two of us. Like us. Hate us. We don’t give a fuck about your feelings towards us. Your feelings towards us is irrelevant. Beyond irrelevant in fact. One thing is for certain though….You all respect us. You know that if you have the opportunity to step inside a ring with the pair of us you had best bring your A-Game cause if not...You sure hell won’t be walking out the ring with your hands raised.
Jinzai snickers a little, though it’s clear he’s in full agreement with everything Emilio is saying.
Jinzai I’m sure a few people have issue with what’s been said so far, so allow me to put that to bed right now. We’re not up here saying we’re the best because we think it. We’re saying it because we KNOW we are. We’re head and shoulders above whoever came before us and whoever thinks they’re the next act to follow. No matter who it is that gets placed in front of us, they’re getting outclassed and outpaced by the best that this business has to offer today in the prime of their careers.
Jinzai sits back in his seat, placing one of his arms behind his head and looking down at the reporters.
Jinzai Now… any more questions?
After a few moments of silence, FGA’s own Spencer Burke steps up, looking up at the two.
Spencer Burke Hello Jinzai, Emilio. Are either of you two worried that with your comments that it looks like you’re overlooking your opponents this round in Blonde Ambition by assuming you’ll blow by them and everyone else on your side of the bracket?
Jinzai Wouldn’t be fun if we didn’t piss off a few people on the way up, no? And we haven’t overlooked anyone yet, we’re just putting teams on notice to not get their hopes up as long as we remain in competition. Because uh, I don’t know if any of you guys know this, but the two of us? We’re not people you easily get rid of in the ring. I think deep down a few of these teams know from first hand experience and they’re hoping, PRAYING we have an off night or that all this shit we’re rightfully talking comes back to blow up in our faces somehow.
With his free hand, Jinzai wags a finger disapprovingly.
Jinzai Sorry to say folks, but we’re not going out like that. We’re not putting on a front to come out here and spew a bunch of bullshit, and we’re some wet behind the ears rookies or kids who just got into this business popping off at the mouth, looking to bring fame to our names. We just know US. We know how good we are, how good each other is, what we’re face and telling would be adversaries what they’ve got in store if they’re up against us. Like Em said earlier, if we say something, we mean it.
Jin shifts a little, before leaning forward and looking up at the crowd ahead.
Jinzai So with all due respect to our opponents, we’re going through them. We’re going through the two poor unfortunate souls that get stuck in front of us next round. We’re running roughshod over any and everyone we have to in order to come out on top, then walking out crowned as the winners of The Dynamic Duos Tournament. And WHEN we win our match, then go on to win DDT 3? The other teams competing will know they had the honor and privilege of losing out to the pinnacle of the sport.
Emilio nods as he looks over to Jinzai then back over to the crowd.
Emilio Vialpando Look Spence, everybody...yes. Yes we are confident. Very confident in fact. Wouldn’t you say we have every reason to be? We’re honestly the best in this tournament. You look at every single wrestler involved in the Dynamic Duo Tournament this year and there’s really no one that you can say is better than us. Does that mean we don’t respect our opponents or the others in the tournament? Of course not. We have the upmost respect for them..Well maybe me more so than Jinzai over here.
He says playfully nudging Jinzai’s arm.
Emilio Vialpando We may seem like some over confident pricks who thinks our shit don’t stick or whatever narrative you pinche perras wanna write up to help you look good. Truth of the matter is….We’re not. We know how good we are and we know how good everyone else in this tournament. We know that we have to step into the ring with the likes of Heather Halliwell err...Lasiewicz. We know we have to step in the ring with Savannah Taylor. We know just how good of wrestlers these two ladies are. We know what they are capable of. We’re not stupid, jaja. We know we have a lot to handle in this tournament and certainly in this first round, well first round for us. It would be pretty damn hard to overlook talents such as these breh.
Emilio shrugs his shoulders.
Emilio Vialpando We just believe we are better than them. There’s nothing wrong with that. Hell you’re gonna be hearing the same exact argument from several others in this tournament. Difference between ourselves and them, we can actually walk the walk as well as talk the talk. There’s some teams in the tournament who are gonna try and use the same shit as us but...We all know they aren’t in the Upper Echelon of wrestling.
Vialpando chuckles and sits back in his chair once more while fixing his tie. The reporters start to yell out their questions once more for the two premiere wrestlers to answer. The Dragon points over to a reporter out in the corner.
Davey Spector Yooo, Upper Echelon! Names Davey. Davey Spector. From Pro Wrestling Insider, there’s a lot of word that the two of you have rubbed quite a few people in this tournament the wrong way. Whether it be with what you’re saying now or what you’ve said in the past. What do you have to say to that?
Emilio leans up to the microphone.
Emilio Vialpando Ask them if they need some tissue with all that Aubrey Graham they’re listening to.
He laughs and shakes his head.
Emilio Vialpando When you’re as good as us or even as high up as we are, of course there’s gonna be people that feel a certain way about us.
Davey Spector Yes but what are feelings about how people react when they hear about you guys teaming up together in this tournament. Some are saying you guys are the biggest threat in this tournament, sort of discrediting others. Like for example when Artemis Kaiser stated this right after the Godfathers Of Wrestling were announced. Or even when the likes of Shootcamp member Owen Gonsalves, who you are set to main event along with down in Australia next month ranked yourself as one of the top wrestlers in the business today. These things sure did rub quite a few people the wrong way.
Emilio shrugs.
Emilio Vialpando And? Because our peers have opinions of their own means we should care about how people react to them? I mean sure I seen how people reacted and all I gotta say is...Shit seems more like a personal problem than an actual issue. I don’t know. It’s not us discrediting these people. Like I said we respect each and every competitor in this tournament and who we get into the ring with, amigo. We just think and know we are better than them. Nothing else. Just because people believe we are the biggest threat in this tournament doesn’t mean it isn’t true either. Because it is fucking true. Those two in GoW might feel a certain way about the two of us for whatever reason, it’s not our problem. People recognize that we are are the biggest threat in this tournament, because we are. We just are.
Emilio looks over to Jinzai.
Emilio Vialpando Maybe Chandler still has his feelings hurt over what I said in that little promo video when I sided with alacrán?
He looks back over to Davey.
Emilio Vialpando I don’t know. Maybe Andreas still….Well actually neither of us actually ever said anything bad about Andreas. So who knows what his problem is against us or if he even has one. Maybe they just don’t like that fact that two young guys like the two of us are as good as we are. I don’t know. We respect both of those guys and see them as legitimate threats against us in this tournament and quite frankly I sure fucking hope we beat Blonde Ambition and that they beat Danse Macabre y we can go toe to toe with them. Upper Echelon versus Godfathers Of Wrestling. That’s a dream match in the making. With some little “bad blood” grudge on one side while the other side is just looking to prove they are at the top of the wrestling.
Jinzai smirks a little, nudging Emilio’s shoulder a bit.
Jinzai Too bad they’ll end up getting KTFO’d from this tournament when it does happen, though.
Jinzai’s words are met with a few chuckles, whether or not it’s from the team’s sheer arrogance at the claim or otherwise no one knew.
Jinzai But to answer your question Davey, if they’re rubbed the wrong way then there IS something they can do about it. Something realllllly simple, yet we’re about 99- nah, fuck it. 100% sure they can’t do but we’ll get a few laughs out of them trying. And that is… do better. Seems simple enough, right? Do better than us and prove us wrong. Come out here and perform at a higher level than the two of us match after match, night in and night out and show us that we’re NOT the best.
Jinzai gives a shrug.
Jinzai And when they fall flat on their faces trying to go step for step with Speed Demons and get left in the dust? They can’t say we didn’t forewarn them or try to spare them the shame of bowing down and acknowledging who’s better. Maybe a team like Baroness and Jensen will end up proving us wrong and surprise us down the line. Maybe not. That’s on them and the others. Us? We know where we’ll be when this is all said and done: Above everyone else, looking down while the ants fight for the right to get smashed by us.
Jinzai holds up a hand.
Jinzai This isn’t born out of arrogance, not born out of some kind of ego trip that I’m trying to play to, none of that. It’s just straight facts. They’re not stopping Hebi one on one, that’s a given. They’re not stopping me one on one, that’s a given. What kinda guys would we be if we gave ‘em false hope that the both of us are doing anything less than coming out on top?
After Jinzai was finished talking the group of reporters began shouting out their questions once more until Emilio pointed over a lady in the front.
Clara Pinkins Heather Lasiewicz and Savannah Taylor are two of most impressive female wrestlers professional wrestling has to offer today. You guys are saying you aren’t overlooking anyone of them in fact in this tournament and upcoming second round matchup but it...Sorry, it sounds like you two in fact are.
Vialpando rolls his eyes as he listens to her and Clara notices this.
Clara Pinkins I’m sorry, is something wrong with what I’m saying?
Emilio Vialpando Yeah. Yeah there fucking is. You must need to grab some q-tips and clean out your damn ears. Or maybe you need to ask one of these Axxess cameramen to rewind the tape for you. We already said we weren’t overlooking anyone even if it seems like we are. We aren’t. We know just how good and gifted these two ladies are and the fact that they are ladies doesn’t mean anything either. You didn’t really need to add that tidbit in there but whatever. Myself personally I’m excited to be given the opportunity to step in the ring with the likes of Heather Lasiewicz. I know a bit more about her than I do Savannah but I’ve watched both throughout the years and I know what they are bringing to the table. I know that they both been at this longer than the two of us but that really doesn’t mean much of anything either.
He shrugs.
Emilio Vialpando As much as we respect these two, we know good and well we can beat them and move on to the next round. That’s a fact. They aren’t at the height we are. Doesn’t matter who their friends are or who they are married to. It doesn’t matter what they have achieved here in FGA or outside of it throughout their respective careers. They’ve never been in the ring with the Upper Echelon of sports entertainment. They’ve never been in the ring toe-to-toe with the best in all of wrestling today. They’ve never been in the ring with The Show y Burakku. They’re about to be swimming in uncharted waters. Their match against Elysian Empire was a cakewalk compared to what we’re gonna be.
Jinzai nods in agreement.
Jinzai We’ve said… what? Five times? Ten, that we respect the other people in this tournament regardless of how many times we’re gonna verbally shit on them in this presser, in the presser next round, and all the way up until the end? Clara, we know we’re coming off as arrogant and there’s a reason for that. Because we are. We know we’re better, we know we’re at the top of the mountain and the goal is to knock us off and shut us up. We’re the measuring stick and great divider of this tournament, and everyone here, everyone watching at home, everyone that’s purchased a ticket to the upcoming shows knows it. We’re the team to beat, whether it’s for momentum, ego or some other bullshit reason that you guys can put your own spin on.
Jin gives a small shrug, before casually picking up a water bottle from nearby and uncapping it.
Jinzai MAYBE Clara, instead of retreading on an issue we’ve already pointed out SEVERAL TIMES during the course of this Press Conference you could, I dunno, ask us who we’d prefer to face in the finals when we make it? Ask us how we think we’ll fare against teams who have been together longer than us - we think we’ll do great, by the way. Hell, ask us what we’ve been doing to prep for the tournament! Ask us how many pushups we did! But don’t - PLEASE don’t - try to be that person that stirs the pot. Cause chances are we’ve already beat you to it.
There was an uncomfortable silence after that as Clara sat back down, looking a little embarrassed following both Emilio & Jinzai’s comments.
Jinzai So… any questions that are actually questions? Anyone at all? Clara, you wanna take a swing at redeeming yourself?
A familiar face pops up, much to Jinzai’s dismay as HKW’s Eli Zayn stands up and makes his way forward.
Eli Zayn Hey Jinzai! Emilio! Er, Jinzai did have a point with one of his examples. You two are great friends, but this would be your first time teaming together and it’s in a tournament against several teams that have been together for years, possibly even their entire careers. How do you think that’ll play in any future matches?
Emilio rubs his cheek and clears his throat a bit.
Emilio Vialpando Actually...This is something mi y Jinzai have been wanting to do for a while Something we’ve been preparing for for quite some time. The first time we gave you people a glimpse of the future was in HKW Underground when we answered the call to an open challenge. Sure, there’s some teams who have tagged for a while. But just as much chemistry those teams have, we have with one another.
Emilio smirks.
Emilio Vialpando We were never really able to showcase the team of the two of us before until now. Both of us had our own paths in our careers we were focused on before pursuing this venture of finally teaming with one another. He had to deal with a waste of a tag partner before going to get himself some singles gold. I was catapulted to main event scene, something I didn’t exactly plan or hope for. But whatever...We have seen each other climb to the top, the very top of this business. That’s why you seen the reactions of people when they seen us team up together. That instant reaction of “holy shit”. Or even the reaction you seen with other teams or a certain other team when you seen some big names teaming up with one another to form some kind of “super” team.
He looks over to Jinzai for a moment.
Emilio Vialpando You said who we would have wanted to meet in the finals? Shit, Godfathers of Wrestling...I would have loved see them in the fucking finals instead of the third round, assuming either of us make it to that point. That build up to that match would’ve been box office I think. Like the Warriors y the Cavs. But you know, if not a rematch with Artemis a match with Salem would be fun.
Vialpando shrugs and laughs.
Emilio Vialpando Oh well...Eli, you’re gonna see us in that ring together and it’ll seem like we’ve tag teamed for years just like any one of these other teams. We know what each other are gonna do and what we’re both capable of doing. You got two of the fastest, most athletic y cerebral competitors in this sport tag teaming with one another that’s gonna be seeming like we move as one. That’s one helluva beast to try and tame if you ask me. There’s not a single tag team in this tournament who even has the slightest chance of doing that though….We like when others show some effort though.
Jin gives a sneer of disgust.
Jinzai On one hand I hate you for bringing up anything related to The Super Saiyans and the fact that I had my partner plotting on my downfall. Buuuuuuttt, I sent him packing inside a chamber match, so I guess we’re even now… kinda. Sorta… not really, but fuck it. I’m onto bigger and better.
Both laugh a little, before Jinzai begrudgingly turns his attention to Zayn.
Jinzai But to answer your question Eli, it won’t be as much of a factor as everyone hopes. Em and I have been the best of friends outside of the ring and gone at each other plenty of times in it. We know how each other works and operates, when and where the other likes to pick their spots in the ring down to the smallest detail. We haven’t been at it as long as a few of these guys and girls but none of them don’t have that chemistry that we’ll put on display when we step between those ropes. That instantaneous moment in time of knowing that you and your partner are one in the same.
Jinzai pauses and looks around, absently taking a swig of the water he had at his side.
Jinzai You guys are in for a treat, though. You get to watch that chemistry play out in the ring like poetry in motion. When we hit the ropes, it’ll be like watching a veteran pair of teammates from your favorite sportsball team or your favorite actor/writer combination coming together for a film that they were tailor made for. It’ll be magical.
Eli nods and goes to ask a question before he's cut off.
Damien Marks Aight now hold up.
Eli looks back seeing HKW’s Chief of Staff standing there dressed up like a reporter straight out of the Daily Bugle.
Eli Zayn What the--
Damien Marks How y'all niggas gonna be acting like everything fine and dandy up over here when over in the land of Hard Knox it seems like there's some trouble in paradise. Shiitttt if you ask me this team is bound to implode more than Jensen and TCB. You minority ass niggas gonna sit there and tell me there ain't gonna be no drama between you two if some shit happens back over on Defiance in the coming weeks?
Emilio looks at Damien in disbelief.
Emilio Vialpando Are you kidding me?
Damien Marks Realla.
Vialpando shakes his head.
Emilio Vialpando Whatever happens in Hard Knox Wrestling don't have shit to do with what's going on here in Frontier Grappling Arts. Me y Jin entered in this shit way before any of what you're even talking about went down. We have a goal in this tournament, and that's to win it all. Point blank period. Don't come up here tryna stir some shit that ain't even there cuzz.
Jinzai twitched a little at the mention of what’s happening over on Defiance, but quickly shrugs it off as he turns his attention to the HKW staff member.
Jinzai Damien, the hell man!? I’m already forking over 25% of what I’m getting for this tournament to you guys, why try to cause that dissention between -
Jinzai stops himself and places his hands on his temples, closing his eyes for a moment as he tries to calm down.
Jinzai Look, Em and I are cool, man. Whatever issues I may or may not have with other members of our little family aside, there’s no impending implosion that the masses can latch onto. There’s not gonna be any breakdowns, no fuckery and chicanery that they can pray takes us out while they watch and have a laugh at our expense. We came up with this plan ages ago, and we’re gonna see it through.
The two Upper Echelon members shake their heads as Damien shrugs off their answers and takes a seat. Jessie then stands back up beating everyone else before they could ask the duo the last question.
Jessie Penderson Last question fellas...You two have spoken about your opponents but you haven’t said anything directly to them. What do you have to say to the Blonde Ambition before you guys face off against them later tonight? And, what would it mean for you guys to win this tournament and possibly become the FGA World Tag Team Champions?
Emilio takes his bottle of Tropical Punch Body Armour and takes a swig. He leans forward and looks down at the table to the duo of Blonde Ambition. He nods towards them out of respect and then back to Jessie.
Emilio Vialpando I say….They both had better be prepared to die in that ring if they want to defeat the likes of us. And I mean that in the most respectable way. Neither team is gonna step in that ring looking to lose by no means. We’re gonna go in there and give it our all to ensure we advance to the next round. Do they have it in them to do such a thing? Who knows. Maybe they do, maybe they don’t. Either one doesn’t much matter to me because the result is still gonna remain the same. Upper Echelon wins. That’s something you all better get good and used to hearing, because you’re gonna be hearing it throughout this entire tournament and….And the moment we win the FGA World Tag Team Championship belts.
Emilio sits back and shrugs his shoulders.
Emilio Vialpando
This might just be the best match either one of them ladies will ever be in. Toughest, for sure. They might try to downplay it from it actually being that just to make themselves feel better about what’s gonna happen tonight. I’m looking on to do what I always do and that’s put on a show for the fans. Giving them their money’s worth. They came to see the Upper Echelon together for the first time in this tournament just to get a glimpse of what’s to come. And that’s what they're going to get.
Vialpando looks to Jinzai and smirks.
Emilio Vialpando What would it mean for us to win this tournament and go on to win the FGA World Tag Team Championships? Will mean that goals are being met and achieved. Me y Jinzai are hungry breh. We miss that taste of championship gold. We both want to be champions again and we don’t see anyone keeping us from getting what we want. With that being said I can’t wait to get in the ring with majority of these teams started with Blonde Ambition and be able to share the ring with some people I’ve been a fan of throughout their careers since I first saw them.
Jinzai smirks and leans forward a bit.
Jinzai They’re both awesome competitors in their own right. One’s a former World Champion and awesome, the other just won the Pride Title not too long ago. They’re among the best that ANY company could ask for when it comes to talent, yo. Like, WAY up there. But we’re on a mission and unfortunately for Heather and Savanna, it’s gotta go through them and we’re bringing everything we’ve got to make their night a long one. Shit, these other teams should thank them for going through having to get us in one of the first rounds so they wouldn’t have to.
Jinzai snickers at that last bit as he shares a look with Emilio, before straightening up
Jinzai As for what this means to us? It’s adding on to the dynasty, padding out the legacy. I’ve been starved for a title for a long, LOOOOOOONG time, but that’s not the only thing we want out of this. We’re not just here to win gold, this is a statement to the rest of the wrestling world that they’re playing catch up while UE is patiently waiting for the finish line, having lapped everyone twice already. |
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Post by Owen Gonsalves on Jul 19, 2017 11:07:44 GMT -5
Upper Echelon move from the front of the stage and begin to make their way to the back to their seats as they have seemingly created a buzz in the room at the moment. The buzz rises as two gentlemen rise to their feet and there’s a rather foreboding crossing of paths as Emilio Vialpando passes the microphone over to his opponent in his Australia debut next month, “Indestructible” Owen Gonsalves. Gonsalves is, of course, flanked by his Shootcamp tag team partner, Ace Watson. Both men are once again primarily wearing their “Shootcamp” T-Shirts, Gonsalves has a blazer over his with black ripped skinny jeans and Watson has a pair of slim fit black jeans with a jacket over his usual “Shootcamp” T-Shirt.
OWEN GONSALVES: "I’m excited, Ace...I am at the peak of excitement because not only do we get the opportunity to advance to the Quarter Finals of the Dynamic Duos Tag Team Tournament tonight, but we’re doing it in bloody Philly, mate!"
Owen’s last portion of his sentence has a bit of an exaggerated Australian twang to it, suggesting that he’s very much pumped tonight, more so than normal. The mention of the city generates a pop from the crowd as you’d expect, amusing and annoying some of the athletes on stage with them. Shootcamp make their way down stage, both men with microphones in hand.
ACE WATSON: "That was a nice cheap pop there, man."
Watson laughs, teasing his tag partner and his antics.
ACE WATSON: "But you’re not wrong, its good to be here, and even better to have the chance to advance in this tournament, its going to be a great match, and one I’m pretty sure a lot of people want to see."
OWEN GONSALVES: "With that being said, I’m sure there’s some questions that need answering so we won’t waste anymore time. Let’s get to it!"
On that note, the microphone has made it’s way to the usual suspect when it comes to interviewing the talent in an FGA event, Spencer Burke.
SPENCER BURKE: "Good evening, gentlemen! Spencer Burke for Frontier Grappling Arts, I’d like to address the elephant in the room first off. A lot of professional wrestling turmoil these days can be found on Twitter, and that was originally the basis of this rivalry, I suppose, that you’ve come to have with your Round Two opponent’s tonight, Lyle Risky and El Stravito. However while I’m sure we’ll get to talk more about that, I was more concerned with a recent spat that the two of you have had. It’s been mentioned already tonight that, Owen, you made a tweet giving your opinion on the best wrestlers in the industry right now, a tweet that gained some interest and controversy, a tweet that sparked that spat between Ace Watson and yourself. Can you just talk us through and explain some of the grievances you had over that? And will it effect your performance tonight against a perhaps united Risky and Stravito?"
Gonsalves and Watson have similar smirks on their face as Owen looks over at his tag team partner.
OWEN GONSALVES: "You wanna take this one first?"
ACE WATSON: "Sure… I think my grievances with that tweet came from my own frustrations at not being where I want to be in my career. I want to be on the top. And after all this time wrestling I would have expected to be there by now. Me and Owen though, we’re cool now. I wouldn’t say there’s any tension between us. And Shootcamp is how we both plan on propelling us to the top, as singles wrestlers in our own right, and as a tag team. I will admit though, I am tired of seeing those same names at the top, I’m sure a lot of people are, and perhaps after we beat Risky and Stravito, me and Owen will have made a good step towards displacing a couple of those names there."
Owen continues off of Ace's thoughts.
OWEN GONSALVES: "That’s just it though, Spencer. You see, Ace and myself are two very different people, with very different views on this business, however the one thing that doesn’t change is our drive to be the fucking best at this. Now I made that tweet unapologetically, and I stand by the tweet and the names mentioned, but you know what? I believe they’re the best currently, but by no means are they going to stay the best. Ace and myself spoke about this and there’s a common agreement between us that we both want to be the names mentioned when you think of the best wrestlers in the world. Look behind me, there’s about 4 names I mentioned in that tweet sitting right behind me, and if we do make it to the Quarter Finals, it’s a near guarantee that we cross paths with at least one of those names. This tournament is our chance to prove that while they may be the best right now, they won’t be the best for long."
A beat.
OWEN GONSALVES: "There’s a saying that goes something along the lines of ‘when you step to the king, you best not miss’, and tweet be damned, if...WHEN we meet the proverbial kings of this industry, when we meet the proverbial best, when we meet Andreas or Chandler or Artemis or Emilio in that ring, they’ll find out that we’re fuckin’ shooters and we won’t miss the shot."
There’s a surprising ovation from the live audience, as Watson seemingly nods his head in agreement, a smile plastered on his face as he can’t help but feel the passion emanating from his tag team partner. Burke steps back and passes the microphone along.
OWEN GONSALVES: "In fact, speaking...of shooting, we promised a surprise and we plan on delivering."
ACE WATSON: "Oh no…"
Watson chuckles as Gonsalves bursts to his feet and momentarily runs to the left side of his stage as a FGA backstage crew member hands Gonsalves two decent sized T-Shirt cannons much to the amusement of the crowd. Gonsalves hands Watson one of the guns, loaded with their “Shootcamp” T-Shirts. Owen shoots a shirt in Spencer’s direction.
OWEN GONSALVES: "Loaded question, Spence...Have a shirt!"
Ace shakes his head but can’t help but shoot a shirt or two out to the audience as well, soon enough both men are shooting their T-Shirts out to the live crowd, creating a fun atmosphere even just for the moment. They return back to their seats however, Owen holds the cannon in his grip as Ace chooses to place it down on the floor beside him.
OWEN GONSALVES: "Shootcamp have become Oprah Winfrey up in this bitch, you get a shirt, and you get a shirt and you get a shirt, and you get a shirt...everybody get’s a shirt!"
As Owen says this he shoots out a few more shirts from the cannon as plenty of the crowd tussle over the free goodies. The buzz dies down once again as Owen points over to the next reporter with a microphone in hand, Davey Spector.
DAVEY SPECTOR: "Shootcamp, thanks for the free shirt! Davey Spector of Pro Wrestling Insider! We’ve only seen you in one tag match so far but I’m quickly becoming a fan of this tag team. There’s plenty to discuss when it comes to your prior performance, you seemingly fought a hard match to put away Josh and Zoey Anderson however we didn’t see much tag team work from the two of you during that match, it was seemingly two singles matches at the same time, can we expect that throughout the rest of this tournament or will there be some tag team innovation from Shootcamp?"
Gonsalves clears his throat, pushing to answer the question first as he seems to be on a roll at the moment.
OWEN GONSALVES: "That was more of a strategic plan, an experiment if you will. There isn’t any doubt that we’re both primarily singles wrestlers however we have been training, especially while Ace was in Australia and we do have some tricks that we do plan on pulling out as the tournament progresses. We didn’t feel the need to, show all our cards early on I suppose, not undermining the talent we faced in the first round at all, just more so a strategic risk that we decided to take. You’ll be seeing a more unified machine tonight against Risky and Stravito."
Watson nods, before speaking too.
ACE WATSON: "Plus sometimes the match just does not work out that way, sometimes you may not get an opportunity to use those tag team moves or the more teamworked based sequences. But we have them, and we’ve near enough perfected them. And honestly, I’m looking forward to showing you all what we’ve got up our sleeves."
Spector passes the microphone on, pleased with his answers as the microphone lands in the hands of FGA reporter, Jessie Pederson.
JESSIE PEDERSON: "You’ve been about fun and games tonight, gentlemen, and while that’s admirable, I do have to ask the question of whether or not you’re underestimating, or taking your opponent’s tonight lightly because they may not be as perhaps well bonded as the two of you. Prior to your last press conference you were very focused and serious, and tonight you’re out here with cheap pops and shirt cannons. Are you perhaps too comfortable with tonight’s match?"
Gonsalves nods for a moment as he puts the cannon down and leans back in his chair.
OWEN GONSALVES: "Jessie, I need you to look past the shirt cannon right now. I want you to think back to when I was talking about being the best in the industry, now you’re a college educated girl I assume but even if you aren’t you’d know that when I was speaking it was with passion. Think really hard about the things I said, because here’s something about me, and here’s something about Ace...We don’t just say shit for the sake of it, when we say it, we mean it and we stand by it. Lyle Risky was once an active wrestler but he hasn’t wrestled nearly every day like we have, Stravito is incredible in that ring but he doesn’t have the drive like we have. We’re hell-bent on advancing and hell-bent on making it to the next phase of this tournament, we need to get past these two gentlemen and to do that we need to be at our best and absolutely focused. So all this…"
The Submission Alchemist lifts up the gun again and waves it around before sliding it across the stage.
OWEN GONSALVES: "...all this is smoke and mirrors, fun shit to pop each other, but when it comes down to it, there will be no stopping us from advancing. We have our sights set on those Quarter Finals just like I’m sure Risky and Stravito do, but it’ll come down to who’s more focused and who’s ready, we’re both."
Gonsalves looks to his partner for some agreement or confirmation to his answer.
ACE WATSON: "Owen nails it. Don’t question how serious we’re taking this, you should always know our focus is where it needs to be, there’s no harm in having some fun with it. Plus, I was always told I need to lighten up every now and then."
A light chuckle can be heard in a few scattered areas of the audience.
ACE WATSON: "We want this tournament, we want Shootcamp to be the tag team everyone wants to sign, and we won’t let anything stop us from getting that."
An audible laugh can be heard from behind the two men, as Risky and Stravito seem to be amused by the spiel from Shootcamp. They both ignore it and move on with the questions. The microphone has landed up in the hands of a journalist who has managed to squeeze on a “Shootcamp” T-Shirt over his maroon sweater.
BRYAN JOSE: "Bryan Jose of the Pro Wrestling Dirt Sheet here, Shootcamp...We haven’t heard you talk much about what some physical goals you have in this tournament. The winners of this prestigious tournament recieve a match for the FGA Tag Team Championships, which are currently held by Dan Herera and Peaches, collectively known as the Polychromatic Lion Attack Squad. Do you believe that you can go deep in this tournament and if the time comes, dethrone the reigning champs? Or is this just a showcase for the both of you to perhaps mix it up with some high profile talents?"
ACE WATSON: "We’d be stupid not to have our eyes on the FGA Tag Team Champions upon even entering this tournament, more so as we progress. Of course we would love a shot at the titles at the end of all this, and if you haven’t gathered so far, me and Owen are confident enough to say we think we would beat them for them. We also think we can go deep into the tournament, in fact we know we can. We are, as I’ve seen some say, annoyingly confident about Shootcamp and our abilities. But I think for now, our main focus is on our next opponents."
Without missing a step, Owen flows together his sentence as soon as Watson finishes, showcasing that they're more than on the same page.
OWEN GONSALVES: "You’re damn right we’re confident, because frankly we have to be. We know better than anyone that we have to be confident and have to be sure of ourselves in order to stack up against these teams. Are we going to show them what the hell we’re made of? Of course, but I assure you Ace hasn’t come here for a showcase and I didn’t enter this just to be a showcase act. We’re not the favourites by any means necessary but we plan on turning heads match by match until all eyes are on us. That started in the first round, it continues tonight and it will continue all the way to the FGA Tag Team Championships."
As Owen finishes his sentence, Jose seemingly follows up with another question. The chuckles from behind them continue as they try to continue on with the press conference.
BRYAN JOSE: "So can we expect Ace Watson, current HKW Superstar to potentially sign if he wins Dynamic Duos and even the FGA Tag Team Titles? Is that something you’ve spoke about at all?"
Ace smiles, looking as if he had been expecting questions like that one.
ACE WATSON: "Well I think I’d be silly not to sign if we had won, and would that even be allowed, if we were to win the Tag Titles while not even being signed to FGA? I don’t know, but I like the company, I like what I’ve seen, so maybe you’ll see Ace Watson hanging around in FGA after the Dynamic Duos tournament has ended, maybe not. We’ll see. I know Owen wants me to stick around though, he keeps telling me to."
Watson looks at Owen, laughing lightly.
OWEN GONSALVES: "Well, yeah, I believe that right now the tag team division in FGA is thriving, especially when we have tournaments like this. We expect to win so as a result, we expect to stick around as long as we have to. I’ve signed a contract here, however if we do get that shot then Ace will do whatever needs to be done in order to progress the team towards that. I’d like for him to stick around regardless but I know he has unfinished business in Hard Knox that he has to handle first. We’re brothers, but he has his own shit to deal with, so once he’s done doing what he has to do in HKW, maybe he just might be back...But we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it, we have tonight to worry about and tonight, regardless of where we’re signed, we’re advancing to the Quarter Finals."
Gonsalves finishes answering the question and as he does, in his peripherals he notices his opponents for tonight chuckling in a rather mocking manner once again, this time so loud that it becomes hard to ignore. Obviously, they disagree with Shootcamp’s take on the match to come, however this irks Owen who decides to turn his attention to them.
OWEN GONSALVES: "I’m sorry, you boys find anything funny? Because if this tournament is a laughing matter to you then maybe Shootcamp is going to run through you tonight, you see I get it, we’ve had some banter on Twitter but that’s where all that ends, Stravito...that’s where all that ends Risky. I’m going to make this crystal clear to the both of you, Ace and myself are going to beat you tonight and we are going to advance to the Quarter Finals."
Owen’s comments cause Risky to chuckle even more as the loudmouth speaks without the need for a microphone.
LYLE RISKY: "Only thing advancin’ is STRAAAAAVITTTOOOOOOO... when he advances on your girl pink taco after we get done embarrassing the two of you. And yes Ace, we will be dropping the tape. Sit your happy go lucky punk ass down, Owen."
The immediate mention of Owen’s wife causes Gonsalves to lurch forward in Risky’s direction however Ace gets in the way, playing peacemaker. Owen doesn’t let it slide though, picking up the shirt cannon beside Ace’s chair and shooting one of the Shootcamp T-Shirts right at Risky, smacking him in the face. This enrages Riskodamus as he immediately jumps the table with the shirt in hand and wrings the shirt out between his legs before spitting in it and throwing it to the ground, his partner playing the cooler head and trying to calm him down. Gonsalves finally gets passed his partner and both men throw hands at each other for a second or two before security immediately barges the stage to separate the two tag teams. The crowd are raucous as all the other tag teams seem amused by the altercation. Owen has lost the microphone but screams for Risky to ‘Never mention my family again’ as Shootcamp are directed off stage. Chants of “LET THEM FIGHT!” ring out in the venue as Risky and Stravito recompose themselves before returning to their seats. Gonsalves and Watson are out of sight now much to the dismay of the live crowd.
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pete
Making Waves
Posts: 82
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Post by pete on Jul 20, 2017 2:31:35 GMT -5
The sound of slow applause accompanies the Canadian Chainsaw Massacre’s arrival onto the stage, with the more boisterous Holly Chainsaw moving up to the podium ahead of her partner. Both Kenzie and Holly have CCM t-shirts on, Kenzie’s briefly showing the back of her’s, designed like a band’s tour shirt--one line, reading “8 July: Hereditary Beerage” with a line through it; below that, “22 July: Crimson Banks,” with a line preemptively drawn through that name as well.
Also notably, the so-called Flame Haired Flyer wears her third of the SSWA Trios Championships around her waist, something Chainsaw reveals she’s also wearing by pulling the shirt up and tucking it back under the strap.
The applause continues from the Briton, long after both Kenzie and Holly are at the podium and ready to answer questions, but eventually, Holly’s clapping slows to a stop, and she gestures off to the side, where CCM’s opponent’s left not so long ago.
HOLLY CHAINSAW: Weren’t that just a rousing speech from the Misfits of Mayhem, Kenz?
Kenzie chuckles to herself, adding in a golf clap of her own; she’s not nearly as passionate as Holly was about her’s though. In fact, the Canadian portion of the Canadian Chainsaw Massacre just looks a little...bored, for the moment.
HOLLY CHAINSAW: Got us quaking in our boots with all that…
Chainsaw pauses for a second, furrowing her brow just a bit. She waves her hand in the air for a moment, seemingly trying to figure out the right word...then just turns back to the podium.
HOLLY CHAINSAW: ...all that bullshit.
HOLLY CHAINSAW: Now...since you lot are probably waiting on a chance to ask questions…
Holly takes a step to the right, giving Kenzie a little more room to squeeze in--only for the Flame Haired Flyer to pluck the mic from its stand, hopping up onto the podium and just taking a seat on it, swinging her feet in...“anticipation.” Spencer Burke’s the first one to come up, and Holly reiterates her belief from the last press conference, mimicking a wanking motion.
SPENCER BURKE: I guess we should start with the obvious one--after your, uh...after your press conference last time, where you didn’t take any questions at all, it almost seems redundant for you two to even show up…
Before Spencer can finish his question, Kenzie holds up a finger. She keeps the mic close enough to be heard, but clearly isn’t too concerned about it, as she turns her attention back to Holly for a moment.
KENZIE ROWE: Told you that’s the first thing they’d bring up. Pay me.
Holly GLARES at Spencer, nose wrinkling up as she tugs the collar of her shirt out a little bit, pulling a folded up £10 note from the strap of her bra. She passes it over to the redhead, who holds it up to the light for a second, seemingly inspecting if it’s real--once she’s satisfied, she tucks it away in the waistband of her shorts before turning her attention back to Spencer.
SPENCER BURKE: Um. Right, anyway, let’s get back on track, here--you had a particularly hard-hitting match with Lord Wolfgang Erikstone and Lady Lorelei Annabelle Hargreaves…
Kenzie rolls her eyes, then resorts to rolling her entire head, as if the the names themselves were bothering her. The Canadian mutters something about “the charade,” but doesn’t repeat herself despite Spencer giving her a moment to.
SPENCER BURKE: ...and this one promises to be more of the same; The Crimson Baronness, in particular, has shown her ability in both a tag team and as a singles competitor, while Jensen Banks showed his mettle by winning the Rookie X Cup last year over a highly talented field. What do you think it’s going to be like, going up against a team with quite a lot of individual momentum?
Kenzie just sorta...stares out at Spencer, her head tilted to the side a little bit. She even reaches up and scratches her head--very clearly NOT seriously confused by the question, though.
KENZIE ROWE: And only a couple of months ago, we went through SSWA’s Titans of Trios, including having to beat ol’ Silent but Deadly, and Jensen himself and his little crew to do it, and then we won the Trios Titles themselves.
KENZIE ROWE: Hey, Izzy, how ya doing?
The mention of the FGA Undisputed Champion does...not go over well; for the fans in attendance, it’s an opportunity to shower CCM in boos, but Kenzie just shakes her head and presses on.
KENZIE ROWE: If we’re gonna run down accomplishments, let’s run down accomplishments. Current SSWA Trios Champions. Holly’s been there multiple times, with a number of different partners, along with an NKP Tag Team Title reign herself; I beat motherfucking Dragon Satan for the WCS International Championship.
KENZIE ROWE: And you know what it all means, going into this match?
Kenzie hops down off the podium, still playing with the mic as she unfastens the Trios Championship belt from around her waist. She doesn’t even pretend to hold on to it, letting it fall to the floor with a shrug.
KENZIE ROWE: Not a goddamn thing.
KENZIE ROWE: Between the four of us, we’ve probably won damn near every tournament even remotely connected to any of the companies we work for--bar Dynamic Duos, obviously--but in the end, resume means nothing. It’s what you’ve done in the past, that’s it. And that’s all well and good, but you want to know the difference between us and them? We have momentum as a team. They couldn’t even be here and not try and throw each other off the stage.
SPENCER BURKE: You actually mentioned what I wanted to touch on next--you faced Jensen Banks and Mason Mannion in the Trios tournament, but conspicuously absent was Tommy Evans. I’m just curious, do you expect anythin--
HOLLY CHAINSAW: No.
Holly raised her voice to compensate for the fact that Kenzie had nicked the microphone, still glaring directly out at Spencer.
SPENCER BURKE: No?
HOLLY CHAINSAW: No.
Having to repeat herself only served to make Holly look even more irritated, while just making Kenzie roll her eyes.
KENZIE ROWE: What part of what I just said was confusing? The match is in the past, it literally means nothing heading into this one. Not only is everything about the match different, but...mm. Okay. I’ll start over.
KENZIE ROWE: Did we learn anything from the match? Yeah, I learned he’s got a good kick, but that it wasn’t enough that night. I learned that they’ve got more guts than brains. What he should have learned is that Holly and I are a much better team than anyone cares to give us credit for. We didn’t win the match because it was a handicap match, we won the match because we were better that night--and if he’s foolish enough to have not learned anything from it, well, that’s on him.
SPENCER BURKE: Obviously, you did touch on it, the circumstances are significantly different in this match--not the least of which is Jensen’s partner in this match, going from one of his LAX Bros teammates to someone he’s had a particular disdain for, in the Crimson Baronness--
KENZIE ROWE: Oh sweetie…
Kenzie sneers a little bit at the pet name, shaking her head left to right. Holly stands off to the side of the podium, rolling her eyes and folding her arms across her chest.
KENZIE ROWE: Why waste breath talking about her? She’s not interested in us, she doesn’t consider us a threat, she doesn’t take us seriously, she doesn’t blah de blah de blah de blah de blah de blah de blah de fucking blah.
KENZIE ROWE: And yanno what? That’s fine. We’re used to people not taking us seriously.
HOLLY CHAINSAW: Jensen and Mason didn’t take us seriously, they thought they could beat us down a man.
KENZIE ROWE: “Ellipses” didn’t take us seriously, because we didn’t have the same pedigree.
HOLLY CHAINSAW: The Triumvirate didn’t take us seriously, because...honestly, who fucking knows why?
KENZIE ROWE: The Mill Road Massive didn’t take us seriously, because they’d won it all before.
KENZIE ROWE: Know what the common denominator in them all is?
KENZIE ROWE: We fucking won. Every. Single. Time.
Kenzie smirks a little bit, starting to pace back and forth in front of the podium for a second.
KENZIE ROWE: So...she wants to pretend we don’t exist? She wants to look past us, because...I guess because we’re not her? That’s fine. Really. We’ll be over with the rest of the world, wishing someone could make her not exist. And, to be honest, as far as this tournament goes, she might as well not--she gets a handful of minutes in the ring with us, then we bounce her out, and she’ll go jump on twitter, talking like she totally didn’t care about this tournament anyway.
Seemingly frustrated with Kenzie’s consistent interruptions, Spencer takes a step back--Holly’s gaze doesn’t leave him until he’s moved himself out of sight, at which point Jessie Pederson pops up in front of CCM.
JESSIE PEDERSON: Just a couple quick questions--first, let’s play fantasy matchmaker for a second. You get by Jensen and TCB, who would you rather face in the Quarterfinals, Ashlyn de Luca and Logan Alexander, or Aurora and Tommy Evans?
The two CCM members glance at each other for a long moment, then both turn back to look at Jessie and just...shrug. Kenzie doesn’t even lift her microphone back up right away.
JESSIE PEDERSON: That’s it?
HOLLY CHAINSAW: What do you want us to say? Who we want to face is whoever wins that match. Really doesn’t matter who it is.
KENZIE ROWE: And to answer all the follow up questions: yes, we’re confident we’ll beat whoever wins that match. Yes, we still think we’re gonna win this whole fucking tournament. Yes, we do think we’ll win the Tag Titles at the end of it all, and no, we don’t think anyone’s going to stop us.
KENZIE ROWE: That about everything?
There’s actually a moment of silence between CCM and Jessie, with Kenzie glancing out at the reporter with her eyebrows raised upward. When no follow up question seems to be coming, the Canadian curls her lips into a smirk, scoops her Trios Championship belt off the floor, and drapes it over her shoulder.
KENZIE ROWE: Line up anyone left in this thing.
HOLLY CHAINSAW: Hell, line up everyone left.
KENZIE ROWE: And one by one...we do, what we always do…
There’s a shared glance between the two women, both of whom raise their titles, Kenzie holding the mic close enough to both herself and Holly so both voices can be heard.
CCM: MASSACRE THEM!
Kenzie sets the mic back on the podium, but makes a point of not actually putting it back in its holder, before both women leave the stage, chatting between themselves, Holly flashing the British V-sign to the ground as she walks off.
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Post by Savannah Taylor on Jul 20, 2017 8:24:48 GMT -5
The crowd and the media alike have just begun to calm down after Holly and Kenzie left the podium, and the media is anxiously awaiting the next people up. Soft clicking is heard as Savannah taylor and Heather Lasiewicz, collectively known as Blonde Ambition, make their way to the podium. The FGA Pride champion is the first to reach the podium, looking nothing short of stunning in a fitted, short red dress with a three quarter sleeve black lace overlay, and black peep toe Christian Louboutin heels. Her blonde hair falls over her shoulders in soft waves and her only jewelry is a silver necklace with a matching silver three headed dragon pendant. Heather is looking just as stunning in a cream colored short suit and matching fitted blazer, with matching cream colored heels, with the fitted vest of her suit subtly showing off what God has blessed her with. Savannah carefully adjusts her Pride championship belt over her shoulder as she clears her throat.
Savannah Taylor: Four words. Eleven letters. These four words have the power to make us enemies out of everyone up here, but then again, we already are. Those four words are as follows……….we told you so. Heather and I stood up here and told each and every one of you that we would walk into the last Flashpoint and knock off the former World Tag Team champions. We told everyone that we were a legit threat, yet people doubted us. People downplayed the two of us simply because we choose to associate with Izzy Anders. But hey, that is perfectly fine. That is well within their rights to think and believe whatever they want. They just need to remember it is not only OUR right but our JOB to prove them wrong, and that starts tonight…….again.
Heather smirked with delight as she steps up to the mic.
Heather Lasiewicz: I enjoy wiping the confident smiles off my doubters faces. I also enjoyed the disappointment in the eyes of those who would nothing more than to see us fail. We warned everyone that Blonde Ambition was going to be a threat. We put you on notice that we were going to crush the momentum of the former tag team champions. We gave you our word that we were more than just pretty faces and perfect physical specimens. We told you all of this… And you chose to scoff at us. Now who's laughing, bitches?
Savannah nods her head as smirks.
Savannah Taylor: Now every single team up on this stage will have no choice but to sit back and watch as history repeats itself tonight.
She clears her throat as she spots FGA reporter Jessie Pederson raising her hand. Savannah nods in her direction as Jessie stands up.
Jessie Pederson: We all saw how well you two worked together against the former champions Elysian Empire. This week you face Upper Echelon. Are your strategies going to be any different?
Heather waves a hand carelessly in the air.
Heather Lasiewicz: Should we? Obviously, we have an effective formula. Do we need to tweak it between teams? Maybe in the slightest way, but what we have works. Why should our strategy between Elysian Empire and Upper Echelon change dramatically? And even if it were to change, do you think we'd spill the beans so foolishly? We're not rookies, for fucks sake.
Heather waves her hand, indicating the end of the question. Spencer Burke rises and Heather nods his way.
Spencer Burke: Heather, Chandler Scott seems to have quite a lot to say about your recent attitude change. Will this affect anything between you and his tag partner, your husband Andreas Lasiewicz, should both of your teams make it far enough to face off? How do you feel about the idea of you and Savannah trying to claim a victory over one of the most dominant figures in the business?
A look of pure frustration crosses the lovely face of Heather as her aqua eyes suddenly flash violet. She looks at Savannah who shrugs. Heather motions for Savannah to take the question as she gains her composure and gathers her thoughts. Savannah takes a second to ensure that her tag team partner is okay before turning her attention to Spencer.
Savannah Taylor: Look, I’m not going to stand here and say that there isn’t history between the four of us. Just being in the same ring with them would be something. But to get a victory over two of the greats? That would be an achievement that few have accomplished. Then again, they have to actually make it that far for this to happen.
She says with a cheeky grin as she brushes her hair out of her face, turning her attention back to Heather. Heather licks her lips and smiles salaciously as she steps back up to the mic.
Heather Lasiewicz: If I've said it once, I've said it a thousand times: Should Andreas and I meet in that ring, we do so as combatants, not husband and wife. Our marriage is successful on a healthy competitive streak and a mutual understanding that what happens in the ring, stays in the ring. As for Chandler… well, he's always enjoyed the sound of his own voice a bit, hasn't he? Far be it from me to try and silence him… but should the Godfathers find themselves in the path of two ambitious blondes, I'd be remiss if I didn't take his tongue home with me as a souvenir of our bout.
Several sounds of disgust can be heard at this. Heather chortled evilly and motions for the next question. Spencer Burke remains on his feet, earning him a scowl from Heather.
Spencer Burke: Allow me to move on to the team at present, then. Upper Echelon. What are your thoughts on the next hurdle on your quest for Dynamic Duos victory?
Heather purses her lips.
Heather Lasiewicz: Oh, right. I suppose I should give them a thought, shouldn't I?
Savannah covers her mouth as she giggles. Heather tips her head back and winks playfully at her partner. There is a mixed reaction, some chuckles, some disapproval. Once Savannah has calmed down a bit, she ponders Spencer’s question for a second.
Savannah Taylor: When I think of Upper Echelon, I immediately think of the term being hurled around on Twitter between two self absorbed rich brats who are both in love with their own reflections. I do NOT think of Emilio and Jinzai. Sorry to burst their bubbles, but it’s true. But just because I think that doesn’t mean I’m not taking them seriously. On the contrary. Emilio and Jinzai both stand in the way of the one match that everyone wants to see, regardless of their own thoughts about the participants involved. If beating Upper Echelon means Heather and I are that much closer to putting on a Match of the Year contender, then that is exactly what we are going to do. Like it or not, boys, the party ends tonight.
She says as she casts a sideways glance over at Upper Echelon. Heather follows her gaze and blows them each a kiss.
Heather Lasiewicz: My sincerest apologies, boys. I'm afraid I'm not as familiar with you as you seem to be with my buxom partner and me. I've seen Jinzai on Twitter and to be quite honest, your antics bore me. Your as mature as a boy entering his sophomore year of high school and from what I've heard, Emilio here isn't much better in that regard. But facts are facts and the two of you as a team were good enough to get into this tournament. I heard you say you were on a mission… Well, I'm afraid that's bad news for you, for Blonde Ambition is also on a mission. Our journey is a glorious one that only sees us sharing belts as glittering and golden as our hair. Failure is not in our vocabulary. It doesn't matter who we run with outside of this tournament. In the tag team circuit, there is no Izzy Anders or Yun Geoun. There is no Heroes Never Die. There is only Blonde Ambition, Savannah Taylor and Heather Lasiewicz… Your future FGA Tag Team Champions.
Heather pauses for a moment, lost in thought. Jesse begins to rise, but Heather begins to speak again.
Heather Lasiewicz: We don't underestimate you boys. That would be a fool's way of playing. I fully expect a fight. I welcome a fight. The thing is… this win holds so much more than a step closer to tag team glory. This win offers me an opportunity I think I've sorely needed. A chance to clear my name, you could say. Restore a legacy I've built on my own. Many have called me a follower as of late. A mindless lackey, a bandwagon jumper into Izzy Anders vision. What you've mistaken as following is called strategy. I don't blindly follow, I share a vision and walk beside my friends. Many have accused me of hanging on the coattails of my husband and using his name to make my own star shine brighter. But if you believe nothing else that leaves these perfect lips, believe this; people will never forget the name Heather Halliwell. If you think a name change erases everything I've made for myself in this business…
Heather's eyes glow violet again as she glares out into the crowd and down the line of teams present.
Heather Lasiewicz: Then step up to me and I'll be ever so happy to show you how wrong you are.
Savannah is nodding her head and mouthing ‘Preach!’ as Heather speaks. Once Heather is finished, she backs away slowly as Savannah adjusts her title belt over her shoulder.
Savannah Taylor: You see, Spencer, it’s really quite simple. Both Jinzai and Emilio may be something of a couple of big shots over in HKW, but as certain people have so, ahem, eloquently put it, it doesn’t matter what you have done elsewhere. All that matters is what you do here in FGA. Whether it be for a week, a month or many years, what you do between THESE ropes for THIS company is what matter.
Spencer Burke: Are you at all concerned that Emilio and Jinzai seem to be focused elsewhere instead of on you and Heather?
Savannah Taylor: Look, if they want to look elsewhere and keep overlooking myself and Heather, then that is their prerogative. No one is putting a gun to their head and forcing them to talk about us and ONLY us. Heather and I are guilty of talking about others in this tournament, and with good reason.
Savannah clears her throat as her crystal blue eyes narrow slightly.
Savannah Taylor: But boys, the more that you overlook us, the worse off it is going to be for you. You’ve heard how irritated Heather is getting the more time passes. She has every right to be as upset as she is. Emilio, Jinzai….I want the two of you to bring everything that you’ve got in your arsenal. I want you to bring your A game to the match. I want you to do your Goddamn WORST. Because I guarantee you that your A game isn’t going to be enough. All of your skills, your tricks and everything that makes you two the men that you are isn’t going to be nearly enough to save the both of you. You can do your worst to the two of us, and it won’t matter. Heather and I have been in the ring with badder, more talented and more intimidating people than you could possibly think of, some of them are even up on this very stage. So I am practically BEGGING the both of you to just put the blinders on and keep the focus on us. That way WHEN we beat you, we will have beaten you at your best.
Heather applauds. She gives a noncommittal glance over in Upper Echelons direction before turning back to the mic.
Heather Lasiewicz: It does seem a bit unfair, doesn't it? Haven't opponents who aren't fully focused on their upcoming match or any part of what we are in FGA? They talk a good game, but let's be honest, boys. You only give us half of your attention IF that much of it, because you have to for this match. Because you don't truly see us as the threats we are. You plan to glide right on through us as though we're air. Well guess what, sweeties? We're the rock wall that's going to tumble and crush you when you try to blast through. You plan to step through those ropes and make quick work of us, but we'll have the victory and looking towards our next round before you can comprehend what happened. Savannah already made the plea for you to bring your A-game, I'm here to tell you to save it for HKW. It doesn't matter WHAT level of fame you bring tonight, Blonde Ambition is taking the next step towards the winner's circle. If you think you can stop that, you're welcome to try… I'm willing to bet defeat is a becoming look on both of you.
Spencer nods his head slowly as he sits down, scribbling furiously on his notepad. Savannah looks out amongst the sea of reporters and randomly points at one young female reporter.
Female reporter: Your opponents and certain other teams aside, is there any other team that you see as a viable threat?
Savannah Taylor: I would be lying through my teeth if I were to say that I wasn’t the slightest bit excited about the prospect of facing Danse Macabre. It’s not secret that there is some rather unfinished business between myself and Salem Cartier. And Artemis Kaiser? Yeah, I have something to prove against the woman who took down Andreas Lasiewicz. But that is assuming they are victorious in the main event. They have one tough road ahead of them. But at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter if it’s Upper Echelon, Godfathers of Wrestling, Danse Macabre, or even Invictus Fight Club….
She spits out that last team and turns her head to stare daggers in the direction of Mark Storm and Chris Madison.
Savannah Taylor: The only thing that matters is that when this is all said and done, everyone will be talking about Blond Ambition.
Heather seems to be putting genuine thought into her reply. It takes her several moments to realize Savannah has finished speaking and the entire room is looking at her. Her eyes widen and she giggles and clears her throat.
Heather Lasiewicz: Much like Savannah, I'd love to face Danse Macabre. Artemis Kaiser and Salem Cartier are tremendous talents. Look at the facts, Artemis defeated my husband earlier this year in an early match of the year candidate. I'll admit, I don't know all the details of the unfinished business between Savannah and Danse Macabre. For me, if the next round sees us facing these two talented young women, I'm going in it purely as the next step in the tournament. But of a victory over them brings Savannah some sort of solace, I'll consider that bonus rewards.
Heather taps a finger to her mouth for a moment before continuing.
Heather Lasiewicz: I'd also absolutely love a shot at Tommy and the Guns.
Heather looks over at Aurora Jansen, blowing her a kiss and winking flirtatiously.
Heather Lasiewicz: My friendship with that lovely lady over there is no secret. I also know what a formidable force she can be in between those ropes. An opportunity to have a friendly match with her involved is appealing… And now I finally have an excuse to feel her up a little.
Heather covers her mouth and widens her eyes jokingly as a laugh goes through the crowd. She looks around, then looks over at Savannah.
Heather Lasiewicz: What do you think, gorgeous? Have we given the people enough of our time?
Savannah Taylor: MORE than enough.
She glances out at the sea of reporters and fans that have gathered.
Savannah Taylor: If you want to see more of us, then tune in later tonight. Until then, Blonde Ambition….out.
With that, Heather and Savannah both turn from the podium and head back to their seats as the media awaits whoever is next.
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Post by ChrisMadison on Jul 20, 2017 15:57:44 GMT -5
Frankie Morrison pushes up from the table and quickly tugs on the lapels of his suit jacket, securing the top button as he approaches the podium. The room immediately stirs, assuming this is a sign that they’re about to hear from the newly formed tag team of Chris Madison and Mark Storm! Frankie adjusts the position of the microphone and surveys the conference room with a smile on his face.
Frankie Morrison: Ladies and gentlemen, Invictus Fight Club!!
Frankie Morrison takes a step back from the podium and begins clapping his hands as Mark Storm and Chris Madison rise out of their chairs and make their way over towards him. Walking side by side in tandem, the pair shake hands with Morrison before he scoots off stage. Madison surveys the room of journalists, all of whom seem eager to hear from the new pairing. Chris places both of his hands on the sides of the podium, leans forward and begins to address the crowd before they could get any questions in.
Chris Madison: I’m sure most of you have a list of questions that you’re dyin’ to ask. First and foremost, my only concern right now is FGA and this Dynamic Duos Tournament. I’ve been keepin’ myself busy lately with NJFC, the WCS, 4CW’s Bad Company tournament, but I’ve never had a problem shiftin’ my focus day in and day out. Today, Her Majesty’s Rejects, Kai Cooper and Darragh O’Connor, they’re the top priority. Goin’ into this thing, Mark and I have been hearin’ a lot of buzz about teamin’ up. I think that’s a testament to our fightin’ spirit; it’s easy for fans to buy in when they know the two people teamin’ together are goin’ to march out there and leave every ounce of fight they have within them inside that ring. We know that we’re goin’ to hear a lot of flak about our inexperience as a team; perhaps rightfully so. But writin’ us off, just because our first tag match together is happenin’ at Flashpoint could prove as a costly mistake!
Chris takes a step back, allowing for Mark Storm to approach the podium and freely speak his mind. Mark has a smile on his face as he plants his hands on the sides of the podium, looking back at Chris and nodding his head in appreciation before turning back to face the critics and journalists alike. He clears his throat, taking a few seconds to compose himself before beginning his opening statements.
Mark Storm: As Chris just said, I know a lot of you have a variety of questions you’d like to ask but you should know that my sole focus right now is the Dynamic Duos Tournament. It’s a tournament I’ve competed in before but I was unfortunate, inexperienced when I first entered this prestigious competition. A couple of years down the line and I’ve morphed into a complete different competitor. I’m better than I was before and I’m standing alongside one of the best in the world, a man I’m proud to call my tag team partner for this tournament. We know it’s not going to be an easy task but nothing ever is. We’re plunging into the deep end, unfamiliar territory but we’re okay with that because that’s what we’ve been doing our whole careers. Plunging into the unknown and it’s going to be an exciting adventure for the both of us. But of course, I can’t get ahead of myself. Right now, it’s all about getting past Her Majesty’s Rejects, who we know are a capable team as they’ve proven to be.
Mark backs away from the podium and the pair surveys the crowd as the room full of journalists raise their hands above their heads in unison. Madison points to the front row and Spencer Burke rises from his seat with a tape recorder in hand.
Spencer Burke: You guys have touched on your inexperience as a tag team; obviously a factor that most people will try to hold against you. As nice as drawing the first round bye is, would you guys have rathered a match to get your feet wet?
Chris Madison: There’s two ways of lookin’ at it. On the one hand, we’re a step further in the tournament; a step closer to everyone’s endgame. On the other hand, we still haven’t seen what we can do together in tag team action. Honestly, I would have much rathered have mixed it up with another tag team in the first round instead of sittin’ around doin’ nothin’. I get paid to fight. I’m in this business because scrappin’ comes natural to me. This tournament has attracted some of the best tag teams in the industry; every one of them, itchin’ to earn that shot at the FGA World Tag Team Champions. Each win picked up throughout this thing is instant recognition, and until we actually do somethin’, our inexperience will continually be our biggest strike against us.
Mark Storm: People can hold anything against us but it doesn’t prove anything. We won’t know until the moment that bell tolls and it’s our time in the limelight. Look at the facts Spence. We’ve got two of the best grapplers in the world aligning themselves with one another. We’re both on the same page. We compliment each other with our styles. And with the way training has been going, it’s been looking pretty promising for the both of us. A first round match would’ve been nice to test the waters but we’re also fortunate to be in the position we’re in. One step closer to the ultimate goal and that’s what it’s all about. It’s about getting to that finish line and hell, I’ll take a bye from the first round any day of the week. It comes down to three things Spence. Talent, which we have an abundance of. Teamwork, which we’re molding together and it’ll be unveiled at Flashpoint. And luck. Sometimes you just need a little bit of luck to steer you in the right direction. And I believe luck will also be on our side.
After responding to Spencer Burke’s question, Mark turned his attention back the crowd of journalists. He locks eyes with Amanda Johnson and nods his head. The rest of the room sits back down and the FGA journalist fires out a question.
Amanda Johnson: I’d like to touch a little more on your inexperience as it pertains to your opponents. Your opponents, Her Majesty’s Rejects, have already been victorious, beating Through Diamond Eyes in the first round. They’ve proven to be a very successful tag team in the business: two time Legión del HELL Champions in Hell Lucha Libre, recently contended for the HKW Global Tag Team Championships. It has to be a daunting task to go up against a team as experienced as Kai Cooper and Darragh O’Connor in your debut together.
Madison smirked, taking first crack at Amanda Johnson’s question.
Chris Madison: Daunting? Nah… There’s no challenge out there that Mark and I aren’t ready to tackle head on. We didn’t sign up for the Dynamic Duos Tournament just to be able to say we gave it a go. We believe in each other, and we believe that we could make a legitimate run at this. The goal is the FGA World Tag Team Championships. To get there, we knew we’d have to face some very talented teams; it would just be a matter of when. I just hope our opponents aren’t overlookin’ us because our pedigree doesn’t read as well as theirs, just like so many of you guys seem to be. If that’s the case, keep those bags packed boys, because we’re sendin’ you straight back to HELL where you came from…
Mark nodded his head in agreement with Madison as he finished his sentence.
Mark Storm: We’re not disputing that they’re well accomplished. We know this, we’ve done our research, watched the programs etcetera - but like Chris said, there’s no team that we dread to face. You’ve got the best tag teams in the world all competing in this tournament. We wouldn’t have entered it if we didn’t have belief in our own abilities. And like we touched on earlier, inexperience will be a factor that arises as the tournament progresses. That’s the only thing they can try and pin against us, and yourselves.
He paused, allowing everyone in the room to digest his words before continuing.
Mark Storm: Her Majesty’s Rejects are entering our realm, our backyard. For the last few months, myself and Chris have made this place our hunting grounds. We’ll continue to do so as we delve into the tag team division. We have the home advantage. We have the fans on our side. It’s going to be an interesting match, a match of main event caliber but we’re calm, cool and collective. We’re ready for every challenge and obstacle that is put in our way.
Chris scanned the crowd, noticing a familiar face set up in the far corner of the room. 4CW’s Gabriel Hartman had been relatively quiet throughout the press conference, but seemed eager to ask Invicitus Fight Club a question. Chris pointed over the sea of reporters and gave him a chance to speak.
Gabriel Hartman: Gabriel Hartman, Four Corners Wrestling…
Chris Madison: Gabe how the hell did you even get in here? I thought you were livin’ out of the 4CW production trucks.
Madison chuckled as Gabriel Hartman looked forward with blank stare.
Chris Madison: Sorry Gabe, I was just messin’ with you; go ahead…
Gabriel Hartman: With both the Dynamic Duos Tag Team Tournament in FGA and the Bad Company Tag Team Tournament taking place almost simultaneously, only two teams were brave enough to throw their names in the mix for both: Invictus Fight Club and Shootcamp. What does that say about you two as a tag team?
Chris Madison: With the hectic schedulin’, I’m sure there is a seemingly never endin’ list of critics who think we’ve taken on far too much. But Mark and I, we want to stand in the center of that ring, no matter who’s name is printed on the ring skirt, and throw hands with the best tag teams out there today. We want to push ourselves. We want to prove ourselves. In both tournaments we drew world class talent as our first opponents. Kai Cooper, Darragh O’Connor, Dakota Smith, Erron Wilder, IT DOESN’T MATTER! We don’t back down from anyone. Over these next few months, all of those doubts that people seem to have about us as a tag team are goin’ to be erased and it’ll be clear as day that Invictus Fight Club is one of the best tag teams this industry has to offer.
Mark Storm: Chris hit the nail with the hammer. Critics will say this is too much whilst myself and Chris will say it’s not enough. We want more. We’re hungry. Hungry for success and there’s evidence in that. We’ve already done completed the Pride of Puroresu Crown. One of the most hectic, grueling, unimaginable tournaments in professional wrestling today. But we completed that alongside competing here and in other promotions. We’re accustomed to this life, it’s what we dedicated ourselves to. You can say Shootcamp are the same, Owen Gonsalves also competed in the Pride of Puroresu Crown series as well as competing here and in other promotions. What does that tell you about us? It tells you that we’re more than just fighters. More than just warriors. We’re wanting to reach a level of legendary status and we’re doing that by competing in these tournaments and putting our names on the map.
Storm took a sip out of a glass of water that was in front of him before placing the glass back down and wiping away at his lips with his sleeve.
Mark Storm: We’re more than just an ordinary tag team. And this is just the beginning.
Chris Madison: Not for nothin’… Imagine if we were able to pull off wins in both of these tournaments and held both the FGA and 4CW tag team championships simultaneously? What would that say about us as a tag team?
Madison once again opened the floor to the reporters, waiting for someone to catch his eye as they frantically waved their hands above their heads. Amongst the chaos, a calming presence was hard to ignore. Rachel Kenshin, a reporter from New Japan Fighting Championship patiently waited to be called on as she sat in the middle of the room.
Rachel Kenshin: I can’t think of two people in this business that better exemplify bushido, the way of the warrior. In these coming months, are there any teams that you two are hoping to share the ring with?
Chris Madison: For me, it’s not about who. I just want to face the best. Both of these tournaments are littered with great tag teams. If we’re speakin’ strictly the Dynamic Duos tournament, Her Majesty’s Rejects, Godfather’s of Wrestling, Shootcamp, and moreso because of personal reasons, Blonde Ambition. It's no secret that I’ve got a score to settle with those ladies and I couldn’t ask for anyone better to have my back while doin’ so. To be honest, I don’t really like lookin’ passed our current opponents, but I hope our paths cross. That can’t happen if we don’t beat Her Majesty’s Rejects!
Mark Storm: I can only echo what Chris has said. These tournaments are stacked with talent and great tag teams. And there’s so many teams I’d wanna face down the line. But let’s just say I had to pick one. Then it’d have to be the boys who call themselves “Shootcamp”, Owen Gonsalves and Ace Watson. They’re an excellent team and they’ve shown that they’re more than capable of getting far in this tournament. But right now, that’s not our focus. Right now, our focus is on the task at hand and that’s Her Majesty’s Rejects, who we’ve already established are an amazing team.
Once finishing his sentence, a crowd of hands shot up from the sea of reporters and now, it was Mark Storm’s turn to choose who to receive a question from. He examined the room for a while before recognizing a friend face in the crowd. It was Jessie Pederson of Frontier Grappling Arts. He nodded his head towards her, indicating it was now her time to pose a question.
Jessie Pederson: Gentlemen, two questions for you. First of all, I’d like to know who you believe poses the biggest threat in this tournament. And secondly, the two of you teaming up was a bit of a surprise to the wrestling world as you can imagine. It’s well documented that you two have met in the ring on more than one occasion. Is this something that is permanent or is this strictly for tournament season?
Clearing his throat, Mark took another sip from his glass of water, having to think long and hard about how to answer the question that Jessie had just poised.
Mark Storm: The biggest threat in this tournament is Invictus Fight Club. That’s who people should be worried about. Sure, this tournament is plagued with amazing tag teams that we all know and love. But as a team, we’re a wildcard. They can’t do their research on us. Because we haven’t even teamed up in the past. They don’t know what to expect. And everyone knows that unpredictability is one of the most dangerous things in professional wrestling. But again, we’re also our biggest enemies. If we don’t advance, if we don’t deliver, that’s on us and only us. We can’t blame this team, or that team, or this official, or that official. However it goes down, we’re responsible for what happens in that ring. And to answer your second question Jessie, Invictus Fight Club is a team that was formed out of mutual respect and an opportunity arose, an opportunity that we couldn’t ignore. We plunged ourselves into the Dynamic Duo’s mix, and Bad Company with the hopes of capturing both titles. And with those titles in our possession, that indicates that we’re here for the long run - doesn’t it?
He smiled at her, a potent smile and she smiled back, to which he bit his bottom lip before continuing.
Mark Storm: We don’t know what the future holds, though, I’ll just remind you all of that. Chris of course has his plan to recapture the Pride Championship and of course, I support him in that endeavour. But right now, at this moment - our eyes are on those tag team titles.
Chris quickly piggybacked on Mark’s answer, leaving no dead air.
Chris Madison: How long we last in this tournament is strictly on us. Together, I'm confident that we can stand toe to toe with every other team involved. It's goin’ to be expected that we'll hit a few bumps along the way; we are new at this as a team. Every team that faces us better be takin’ advantage while we work out the kinks, because once we get rollin’ the only outcome will be a title match against Dan Herrera and Peaches! My hunt to regain the Pride Championship…
Madison peers down the table at Savannah Taylor who seems uninterested and has angled her body facing the opposite direction.
Chris Madison: ...is a subplot to this tournament for sure. But it’s not goin’ to deter me from pushing throughout and fightin’ for my partner. Invictus Fight Club is not a fly-by-night tag team. We’re here to stay, and we’re here to takeover the FGA tag team division. The only legitimate question is when?!?!
Mark and Chris take a step back and confidently stand tall as photographers rapidly capture the image before they walk back to their spots at the table.
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Post by The Mason on Jul 20, 2017 19:13:03 GMT -5
Along with the new-wave, customized sounds pouring from the speakers of smartphones as reporters and invited spectators utilized their camera apps were the old-fashioned sounds of shutters, and even a hipster’s unnecessarily outdated bulb. Because Philly.
Positioned on the stage are SSWA World Champion, Ashlyn De Luca, and the veteran Logan Alexander. Off-putting by their appearance, however, is the fact that Ashlyn De Luca is horizontal on a chaise psychiatrist’s chair, hands folded and resting on the SSWA World Championship which sits on her belly while she stares into space. While Logan stands behind the podium, ready to be questioned, a shorter, older man sits on another chair adjacent to Ashlyn’s, a notepad and pen in hand. FGA interviewer Spencer Burke opens his mouth to address their pair-- but openly sighs at the realization that he, like many moderators at many press conferences before him, may indeed have to confront the potential absurdity before him.
Spencer Burke: … (sigh)
Spencer lowers the microphone and glances back at Jessie Pederson for help, but she places a hand over her own mic and shakes her head, leaving Spencer on his own. Spencer slowly turns back toward the stage and raises the microphone, though he hesitates before he speaks.
Spencer Burke: Okay. Fine. We’ll do this. Ashlyn. Logan. Doctor…
Ashlyn De Luca: McClain.
Spencer rubs at his eyes with his thumb and index finger, clearing his throat for a small moment before he nods, continuing in a defeated tone.
Spencer Burke: Ashlyn. Logan. Doctor McClain, welcome to Philadelphia. So uh… alright… Ashlyn, why do you have a psychiatrist on the stage before us today?
Ashlyn responds almost monotone, eyes still staring upward.
Ashlyn De Luca: Glad you asked.
She sits upright, swinging her legs over the edge of the couch to face the journalists and reporters that make up the crowd. Spencer blinks. Hard. And Ashlyn looks deep into his soul as she responded, raising her microphone to her lips again.
Ashlyn De Luca: Because, Spencer-friend, I’ve been haunted by these realistic and prob precognitive visions of the horrible things I’m ‘bout to do to Tommy Evans’ beautiful goddamn face.
Spencer Burke: Wh--
Ashlyn De Luca: Thing is… Tommy Evans is my shwibby. My shbooboo. My bae-jing. And I knew coming into this that there was a HUUUGE chance that the two of us would be going up against each other-- and like, I definitely figured if we BOTH planned on winning the whole thing, then it’d be inevitable. Didn’t really count on Tommy and the Guns-- and we’ll get to the Guns-- being our second match in this thing, but here we are, man. And Tommy means the world to me. But… Dynamic Duos and Tag Team gold, that also means the world to me. So after confiding in Logan and the ghost of Mr. Frank Sinatra, I’ve decided that the best route would be…
Ashlyn looks toward Dr. McClain as he leans forward and mutters something to her. Ashlyn nods to him and returns to the mic while McClain scribbles something onto the notepad
Ashlyn De Luca: ...preemptively seeking some professional advice before I rip and tear my way straight through one love to get to another. It’s dark shit, kids.
Logan Alexander: It’s just the sort of thing that gets the interest of the masses and the media though, isn’t it? Having people close to one another turning against each other in the pursuit of some selfish desire. Friends, couples, families. It’s all good, right?
He glances out over the crowd for several moments. Dr. McClain, in the meantime, writes something down on his notepad, now turning his chair to study Logan as he writes and Ashlyn lies back down on the chair.
Logan Alexander: Personally I do hope that this doesn’t lead to any serious issues between the wonderful couple, but that really isn’t going to be our first concern when we step out into the ring later on. Plain and simple, we want to win. We’re willing to push things as far as we can, or have to, in order to make that happen as well. It’s the price of success in this business. You’re going to have to find a way to get past the obstacles put in your way… especially the ones that you may not want to face.
Logan turns and looks over towards Ashlyn. He begins to say something, but a hand shoots up from the crowd. Spencer, eagerly, turns and points a finger at the spectator-- a tall, blonde woman with a microphone in a burgundy shirt which reads “LEGIT BOSS.”
Tasha Stanks: So you have ZERO concern that your partner over here, standing by with a shrink, isn’t going to get weak knees standing across from who she claims is the love of her life?
Without more than a second’s pause, Logan responds.
Logan Alexander: I don’t think Ashlyn is going to blink when that moment gets there, and she and Tommy are in the ring together. After the final bell, we’ll all have time for recriminations or regrets about what happened. But there will be no time for any of that between the bells.
Spencer Burke: You certainly sound like you don’t have any sort of hesitance in that regard Logan.
Logan Alexander: I don’t have any personal stake like that in this match Spencer. But such ties have never stopped me in the past before. Some people are able to separate the business from the personal. I’ve stepped into the ring with close friends before. I’ve had to fight people I’ve respected and people I’ve cared for. Those have been some of the most fiercely contested matches I’ve ever been in because none of us were ever willing to give an inch. If you ever make any friends in this business, you’d better be ready to one day step in against them and fight them with everything you’ve got. I can do that. I know Ashlyn can as well.
Without waiting to be called upon, a tall, skinny, blonde woman in a teal shirt which simply reads “DO IT WITH HAIR” stands upright, speaking toward the team on-stage.
Harlotte Hair: I understand that you and your partner have a storied history but have you ever questioned her morals or tactics especially when you look into the history she shares with your opponents? I mean-- firstly, with Tommy Evans, the entire reason the two are still associated to this day is because of their relationship outside of the business rather than what happens in the ring. But…
Hair continues, moving closer to the stage to allow her cameraman to get a better shot.
Harlotte Hair: ...that, some argue, is a relationship built upon deception. A lot of Ashlyn’s initial success, both in Phoenix Wrestling and Hard Knox Wrestling, came as the result of the deception. Some experts could point toward that as the reason Ashlyn De Luca has struggled to find any success as a “team”, so knowing this, are you even a little wary moving forward in the Dynamic Duos, Logan?
Ashlyn De Luca: Holy shit, it’s like I’m not even here.
Doctor McClain shakes his head, writing in the notepad. Logan gazes back, looking a bit amused by the direction Hair has gone in.
Logan Alexander: Well, I know I have been out of regular competition for a while, so it may not be common knowledge nowadays, but I’m pretty sure that a majority of people who followed the work I did with my last regular tag partner wondered the exact same thing you are. ‘How can Logan work alongside her? How can he trust her?’
He shakes his head slightly and chuckles briefly at the recollection of prior conversations.
Logan Alexander: Aubrey Wilkinson was one of the most capable people, if not the most capable, I’d ever teamed up with. I never had absolute trust in her though. I simply chose not to dwell on the possibility that she could turn on me at any potential point. Why should I bother worrying about what might happen? What is that going to do other than make you paranoid of the people you’ve surrounded yourself with and detract from what you’ll be capable of as a group? Until a hypothetical becomes an actuality, it’s just a distraction. If Ashlyn decided to turn on me, there’s nothing I could do about it. Treating her with suspicion would just push her away and make it more likely she’d turn on me. I’m not going to sow those seeds. Ever.
McClain can clearly be seen and heard asking Ashlyn how she feels about these comments in the background, but she shoos him off. Drawing himself up a bit more and taking on a more serious demeanor, Logan moves on.
Logan Alexander: As for Ashlyn’s methods in the past… I’m not in a position to comment on them. Even if I knew everything about any of the situations you might choose to bring up, I still wouldn’t be in a position to comment on them. I do not hold others to my own standards. Ashlyn may have been my student at one time, but the moment she set foot in the ring on her own it was not my place to tell her who to be. She has to make those choices and live with whatever consequences come, just like I and everyone else have to.
Spencer Burke looks out into the reporters and points his microphone toward a muscular, redheaded woman with a hand raised into the air. The woman, wearing a shirt that reads “89.9 - LA BASS KICKERS” moves forward, taking a deep breath before asking her question, speaking in a thick southern Irish accent.
Petu Lench: So. Earlier we were speaking of challenges, right? And all due respect to Tommy Evans, but as a longtime fan of American wrestling, I have to ask… what runs through your minds when you stand across the ring from someone that neither of you have been able to overcome-- Aurora Jansen?
Ashlyn audibly groans, prompting McClain to furiously scribble onto the pad.
Ashlyn De Luca: Faaahhhcckk.
She sits upright again, swinging her legs over the edge of the couch before she responds. Deep-ass inhale. Deep.
Ashlyn De Luca: She’s had my number at every turn, dude. I let it bug me in the past. I let it run me out of the company that gave me my start. I know Logan’s had his dealings with her-- maybe just once in the ring-- but he knows what I know about Aurora Jansen and… the most important thing we ended up comin’ up with is… bitch is not unbeatable. And it’s not a popular line of thought to even imagine that she and Tommy could be knocked out of this in round one, but the moment we found out they were in this tournament, we haven’t stopped training. We haven’t stopped thinking.
A breath.
Ashlyn De Luca: We’ll figure it out.
Logan Alexander: The thing that a lot of people seem to forget about is that streaks inevitably will be broken. I’ve been on both sides of that situation. One competitor may be dominant against another for months or years, but that doesn’t change the fact that there is likely going to be a blemish on that sterling record eventually. It may be unlikely that you’ll obtain parity against someone who has had your number for a long stretch, but there’s no reason to think that you won’t get at least one against them.
Logan offers a relaxed smile to those gathered before them.
Logan Alexander: And this is an ideal situation to get that one. Aurora isn’t the only competitor on her side. In a tag team match, you have to watch out for your partner along with yourself. Ashlyn and I have each other’s backs for this match. Can Aurora and Tommy say the same? How far are Jansen and Evans going to go for one another out in the ring? I can tell you right now without any hesitation that I would put everything on the line for Ashlyn if I have to.
His expression grows a bit more confident as he goes on.
Logan Alexander: On top of that, we’re not expected to win this one given the focus that is being put on Aurora’s past record against us. That means we’re going to be cool and composed throughout this match. The pressure isn’t on us to win… it’s on them to keep the streak alive.
This time, perhaps for the first time, it’s Spencer Burke that’s eager to interject.
Spencer Burke: So if I could ask a question… if we dare look past Tommy and the Guns for a moment, who else on this stage and in this tournament are you guys are expecting to face later on in the brackets?
A pause.
Spencer Burke: Or maybe, at the least, looking forward to facing?
Ashlyn’s eyes become focused at the thought. Her face grows less soft, more serious, and finally she turns her head, craning her neck a bit to cast a brief, but telling glance back toward Artemis Kaiser as she sat alongside Salem Cartier. There is a hush that seems to fall over the venue, if only for another moment. Ashlyn turns back toward Spencer, speaking gently.
Ashlyn De Luca: I can think of one person I wanna fight. One person, maybe, that I wanna hurt.
A small shrug.
Ashlyn De Luca: But… priorities though. We don’t wanna get distracted and knocked out of the tournament by a team that got a bye because we got overzealous or some shit.
Logan Alexander: I won’t argue with her on that point. I wouldn’t mind getting to face off against some of the bigger names in this tournament, assuming that we get that far, and I know that we’re going to have to work really hard to get there too. If we get there, I’ll be glad to express my thoughts on the teams I wanted to face, but right now… there is nothing beyond Evans and Jansen, and that’s how it’s going to be until our match is over.
Ashlyn sighs loudly while Dr. McClain reaches over to pat her shoulder, comfortingly.
Ashlyn De Luca: I’m gonna have to kick my Schwooby’s jaw out of his faaaace! I’ll totally, willingly do it without hesitation but ohhh God, the emotional fucking trauma--!
Ashlyn openly weeps into her hands, but quickly, swiftly adds.
Ashlyn De Luca: --but I’m so ready. Butohnogod!
Logan Alexander: Perhaps you’ll get to do that to Aurora instead, then your Schwooby will get to dodge that bullet and we’ll get the more satisfying resolution.
Ashlyn turns, shooting a wink toward Tommy Evans.
Ashlyn De Luca: Don’t count on it, lil’boy.
We cut away from Evans before the camera can even catch so much as a millisecond of his reaction.
Logan Alexander: Well, I offered an alternative at least. I’d definitely say that my partner is ready to take care of business one way or another. So… any further requests from the floor before we wrap this one up folks?
They look around at the gathered reporters, but no one else appears to have anything further for them.
Logan Alexander: Alright then. With that, we are done. Now all that’s left is to go out and take care of our business. Tonight is going to be a chaotic one... the Chaotics will see to that.
Ashlyn De Luca: Faces are gonna get fucked up. It’s a rough road to Patriot Games, kids.
Ashlyn stands upright and turns… but swiftly turns back to the podium, leaning toward the mic.
Ashlyn De Luca: Um. Follow me on Twitter. @ashlyndeluca. I would... also say follow my partner. But, uh, he’s still making dial-up work for him. Still not sure about the weirdos on the MySpace, so we’re gonna… we’re gonna have to wait on that. But that’s coming.
Logan Alexander: So feel free to write me… via carrier pidgeon. Those still work in Canada.
That comment, and Logan’s deadpan delivery, draws a round of laughs from the reporters, though Ashlyn leans toward Logan with a look of horror.
Ashlyn De Luca: Wha- du- no pigeons, we agreed. It was incredibly specific.
Ashlyn's eyes widen and she motions toward Spencer.
Ashlyn De Luca: OHHH SHIT. Did I tell you guys about the time I beat Tommy in a tag team match because he got attacked by a goddamn pigeon? Thing flew right through the arena, right for the di... did-- did they kill the mic? Wow. WOW, THOUGH.
Though most of our cameras rest on the crowd of reporters, we hear Ashlyn out-of-frame, speaking to an un-mic’d stage hand.
Ashlyn De Luca: Nope. Fuck it. I dunno whose chair that is. It was here when I got here.
Spencer awkwardly clears his throat while a pair of janitors come onto the stage to remove the chair from behind the podium.
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Post by Dreamscape on Jul 20, 2017 19:23:22 GMT -5
The newly paired team of El Stravito and Lyle Risky sit back in their seats talking to one another. They listened to the others speak not caring much about what the others had to say as they just talked to one another. Just when Risky was starting to take a sip from his patented RiskoDoubleCup, Jessie Pederson calls his name.
Jessie Pederson
Lyle! El Stravito!
Lyle Risky Damn girl. Don't you see me tryna take a sip here of this good? What's up?
Jessie Pederson Oops! I'm sorry! That spat between you guys and Shootcamp was pretty….feisty. Actually the Twitter war between you guys have been pretty heated even when the now sidelined Bryan Williams was pretty heated.
Lyle nods.
Lyle Risky Yeah and Owen a ho ass ninja for tryna shoot me with the cannon like it was gonna take me out. Better sit his scrawny ass down somewhere.
Jessie Pederson Mhm..There’s been a lot of build up to to this match. Even when neither of you guys were sure if you'd even face off. How does it feel now to finally get the chance to take each other on?
Lyle starts to speak but Stravito cuts him off as he was as much as riled up by Shootcamp’s words as his partner was. Stravito whistles over to his translator, a gorgeous Costa Rican lady who’s modestly dressed for the occasion.
Cynthia Gonzalez Hello my name is Cynthia, and I will be translating for El Stravito here at the Press Conference.
Stravito holds two thumbs up before uttering something to Cynthia in spanish.
Cynthia Gonzalez Stravito would like to say first of all, that he is very excited to be apart of Dynamic Duos. Especially teaming up with Lyle Risky, a personal idol of El Stravito. El Stravito would like to apologize for his English not quite being up to par yet, but he assures everyone that he is rapidly learning the language so that he can address you all himself.
Cynthia looks back at El Stravito with a smile before looking over to Jessie.
Jessie Pederson Now...El Stravito. Your opponents have be--
El Stravito starts to wag his finger.
El Stravito Las Putas, si? Cynthia, decirles que voy a tomar una gran alegría en lanzar alrededor de dos arrogantes gringos.
Cynthia’s eyes widen. She looks back at El Stravito with clear hesitation as he motions for her to translate. Cynthia looks back at Jessie and fakes a smile before biting her lip.
Cynthia Gonzalez Stravito says he will take great joy in tossing around two arrogant gringos.
El Stravito He competido por todo el mundo. He derrotado a hombres de verdad. No los chicos que constantemente necesitan sentirse validados en las redes sociales.
Cynthia Gonzalez El Stravito has competed all over the world against real men. Not little boys who constantly need to feel validated on social media.
Stravito stands up and looks directly at Jessie.
El Stravito Two...cocky...perros!
Risky smirks as he looks at Stravito then back to the crowd.
Lyle Risky And they tried to say my ninja Stravito ain't hungry. Tried to act like Stravito ain't bout the shits. Ninjas out here acting like just cause they don't know somebody like that, that they ain't out here like that. Ninjas out here acting like just cause they ain't been in FGA before they don't have the skill to do the damn thing. How many peeps up here ain't been in FGA bout got tons of success outside of here? Mannnnnnn tell them dumb hos talking that kind of shit to sit the fuck down and pipe down one time for the one time.
Risky snarls.
Lyle Risky These fool's talking yapping at the mouth like they really bout to do something out here. Lemme tell you something, Jessie. As good as Ace and Owen are, they better sit the fuck down thinking they better than me and my boy Stravito. And they best be putting some RESPECK on my boy Stravito name before he run up on them and give em that biddness. Yeah we been going back and forth for a while. Quite frankly I think we the most anticipated match in this mother fucka.
Risky looks down the table and around the stage as Stravito nods in agreement.
Lyle Risky Sure you might have my fine ass ex wife and her girl Siren. Sure you might have Artemis homicidal ass and the witch doctor Salem. Sure you might have the boy Jensen and TCB. Sure you might have them funny bitches Holly and Kenzie. Sure you might have Jinzai and Emilio punk ass. Sure you might even have a pair of legends like the home grown Chandler Scott, yeah I said home grown cause fuck everywhere else you worked at Chandler. You a hall of fame property out this bitch so I'ma say homegrown. Sure you might have the legend in my ex wife new hubz Andreas with his sadistic ass.
Lyle takes a moment to take a sip from his cup.
Lyle Risky But shiiiiiittttttttt…..Y’all ninjas ain't been turning up the heat for this match up here like us. You ain't got Risko Dangerous and Stravito Tha Kid. You ain't got Ace The Heart Pace. You ain't got Owen La Fuckboy G. Y'all don't have that. So fuck outta here.
Spencer Burke stands up.
Spencer Burke Yes but do you think you two actually have a chance at beating Shootcamp or any other team in this tournament?
El Stravito ¡¿QUÉ?! No dudes de nosotros, Spencer. Shootcamp es bueno, pero ser bueno no te hace grande. Stravito? Estoy genial. Como he dicho, he estado en todas partes pero ahora estoy aquí para empezar limpio. Está bien que no me conozcan pero pronto lo harán.
Cynthia lifts the mic and smiles at Spencer Burke.
Cynthia Gonzalez Stravito says don’t doubt him and Risky. The Shootcamp is good but being good doesn't make you great. Stravito is greatness. Like I've said I've been everywhere but now I'm here to start clean. It's ok that they don't know me but they will soon.
El Stravito stands up and takes the mic from Cynthia
El Stravito Entonces, cuando ganemos el torneo, tú y ellos sabrán que nos referimos a negocios. ¡FGA es MI DOMINIO!
Cynthia Gonzalez Then, when me and Risky win the tournament, you and everyone will know that we mean business. FGA is my domain.
El Stravito La llamada a la cortina es pronto
Cynthia Gonzalez Stravito says the curtain call is soon.
Cynthia looks over to see if El Stravito had anymore to say. He nodded as she stepped behind him. Lyle is seen drinking a big gulp of his drink and then removes the microphone from its stand as he stands up to his feet.
Lyle Risky Any artist that wanna be a artist and wanna remain a star, and don't have to worry about executive producers trying to be, All in the videos. All on record, dancing, Come to Death Row! |
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Post by Dreamscape on Jul 20, 2017 19:59:13 GMT -5
Emilio and Jinzai laugh a bit with one another and look down at Blonde Ambition.
Emilio Vialpando Oh I get it...They’re pulling the “who are you?” card. Acting like they aren’t about to face the two of the biggest names in all of professional wrestling.
The two laugh again.
Emilio Vialpando That’s cute. “Two rich kids”. Jajaja, yeah because me y Jinzai were born rich, right? Ah man….I guess it’s bad to admit when you actually did your homework on a future opponent these days. Or about anyone in the tournament. Especially as big of a tournament as this one? Man….The “who are you card?”. “Never did anything inside the FGA ring”.
Emilio looks around and scratches his head.
Emilio Vialpando Que?! What?! Jajajaajaja, hold up….What? I mean damn sorry I’ve never been actually contracted to FGA but…..Preetttttyyyyyyyy damn sure I’ve been in the FGA ring plenty of times. I mean Jessie didn’t ask me about Rey del Aire or anything. I didn’t compete in Frontier To The Future or anything. Wait…
The two UE members look at one another.
Emilio Vialpando She did ask me about Rey del Aire! I did compete en Frontier To The Future a few years back. And aren’t they….Frontier Grappling Arts’ properties? Oh gosh...They are. Man. What a small world jaja.
The two shake their heads.
Emilio Vialpando Look if you gonna try and disrespect us and act like you don’t know us, don’t go disrespecting the company you're even signed to’s history and act like neither of us been inside an FGA ring before. Pathetic. And you wanna talk about rich kids? Neither of us grew up rich. But just becasue we’re signed to some big contracts now and got multiple sponsorships because of the work we have done in this business, the sweat, blood and tears we have sacrificed for our careers….We’re just some rich kids. Right? Nah. I grew up in the streets of Compton. Jinzai grew up Albany. Neither of us were born into the riches like you wanna sit there and try and act. You wanna talk some shit know exactly what the fuck you’re even talking about.
Jinzai stares down at the two ladies and shakes his head.
Jinzai One to talk when she just married into of the richest families in wrestling today...Meinu. How can she be married to the head trainer or even been a guest trainer at HKW’s developmental establishment and not even kn…
Jinzai stops himself.
Jinzai Blonde Ambition...Forgot.
Emilio Vialpando At least we didn’t try to disrespect either of your legacies and try do some dumb shit like pull the “who are you" card. Because you know….We aren’t overlooking or underestimating anyone here. Pretty sure we said that too, right? I don’t know...Maybe somebody needs to bring up some q-tips for these ladies. They’re hard for hearing. Something. I don’t know.
Emilio looks down at them once more.
Emilio Vialpando Wait...Who are you? Jajaja...Fuck outta here breh. |
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Post by Chandler Scott on Jul 20, 2017 19:59:33 GMT -5
After the latest speaker steps away from the podium, Chandler Scott slides back in his chair before rising to his feet. The DNA of FGA makes his way across the stage with a confident stride. Certain wrestlers on this stage eyeball him. But he purposely ignores any and all distractions while keeping his attention focused on the crowd in front of him. After taking off his pair of chrome aviators and folding them up, he slips the shades into his breast pocket before leaning into the mic.
Chandler Scott: Danse Macabre. Dance Dance Revolution. Save The Last Dance. It don’t matter. Godfathers in 4.
A few chuckles are heard as Chandler slips the shades back on, walks back across the podium and sits back down in his seat.
Chandler Scott: Chandler smirks before getting back out of his seat. He heads back over to the podium, takes off his shades and holds his arms out.
Chandler Scott: Sorry, sorry, I’ve always wanted to do that...
A few more chuckles are heard as Chandler prepares to continue.
Chandler Scott: Hey listen. Um, we’re all professionals here with very busy schedules. So how much longer do we really need to keep this up for? I mean seriously. By this point, isn’t this whole thing just a liiiiiiiittle bit tired. You know what I’m talking about. The whole “gee golly, you guys, there’s so many great teams here. Boy, I sure do hope me and partner can match up against them” routine. Am I right, or am I right? How much longer are we going to do the “well you know… I’m not going to look past my match by focusing on potential opponents… now watch me talk about the people I just told you I was going to ignore” bit. Though to be honest, I’d rather listen to than than people who claim they don’t care what people have to say about them, even though they’re clearly triggered. I won’t mention any names, of course COUGH heather COUGH COUGH COOOOUUUUGH!
Chandler holds his throat as he continues to hack up a lung.
Jessie Pederson: Oh my Gosh! Chandler, are you alright?
Chandler Scott: You know what? Now that you mention it… my allergies have been acting up as of late. It’s that time of the year and this scratchy throat is absolutely killing me. Would you do me a huge favor and bring me a bottle of water?
Jessie Pederson: Sure thing!
Chandler Scott: Thank you so much.
As the FGA reporter runs along, Chandler continues...
Chandler Scott: Now, where was I? Ah yes. Dynamic Duos. The Second Round. Some teams were fortunate enough to have advanced to the Second Round without lifting one finger. Some teams out there got to this point here tonight without breaking a sweat. Must be nice. Some of the teams on this stage actually had to put in the work. Some of these teams weren’t fortunate enough to receive a bye and actually had to get off their asses and wrestle…
Thank you, Ms. Pederson…
Says Chandler as he’s handed a bottle of water from the FGA interviewer. He untwists the cap and takes a few swigs before resting the bottle on the podium.
Chandler Scott: Now I’m not going to make it out to sound as if the Godfathers of Wrestling were involved in some war of the ages on the last episode of Flashpoint. The Renjas lasted about as long as most pundits thought they would. I will say this though. There’s a steep increase in the level of competition from last Flashpoint to this Saturday for the GoW. The level of opponents has literally gone from zero to 100. And to that I say… good.
Chandler nods confidently before continuing...
Chandler Scott: I’ve never been one to shy away from competition. I get up for night’s like this Saturday night, when I get to go up against two of the best. Danse Macabre. A former and current HKW Bloodlust Champion. That means something, ladies and gentlemen. When some think of the Bloodlust Division, they think of garbage wrestling with no skill or technique. Of course, those people are ill informed because when I think of the Bloodlust Division, I think of combatants that put their bodies on the line in the most savage environments. These two wrestlers? These two warriors? They know pain. They know aggression. They’ve been molded, hardened and sharpened by it. When The Renjas were placed in the Scott Lock and the Crisis Core Crossface, they tapped out as soon as those holds were applied. They didn’t have one gut between the two of them. And I hate to trash former opponents, I really do. But they didn’t even try to fight out of it. They didn’t want to engage with the struggle of getting themselves free. Danse Macabre? They’re not going to quit as soon as those holds are put on them. Hell, those holds may not even be able to be put onto them. But if they do? You can rest assured that the two of them will fight for their survival. They will scratch and claw their way to safety. They will strain every muscle in their body to make it to those ropes or find a way out of it. The two of them? There’s isn’t an ounce of quit in them. They don’t even know what the word “quit” is. That presents a tough task for my partner and I. We’ll be looking across the ring from two opponents that haven’t flinched at seeing their name opposite ours. Neither set of knees will have buckled upon seeing us on the other side of that ring. They want to see us face to face. They want to match us blow for blow. Which means only one thing. We’re not going to be able to pin them. We‘re not going to be able to submit them. The only way the GoW is walking out of the main event with their arms raised… if by beating the living hell out of Danse Macabre. You want to know why I say that? Because the only way Macabre is walking out of that main event with their arms raised… is by beating the brakes off of my partner and I. On one side of the ring are two irresistible forces. On the other side? Two immovable objects. It’s about to go down this Saturday night. It’s about to get real ugly, real fast. And I’d have it no other way. I can’t speak for my partner or one member of that team. But to me, it’s nothing personal. It’s all business. But defeating the biggest stars in this industry is my business. And ladies and gentlemen, business has been good. Damn good. And I don’t see that business having a down quarter anytime soon.
Questions…
A commotion can be heard as the group of reporters all try to be the first to get picked. After zeroing in on one reporter, Chandler points to Spencer Burke.
Spencer Burke: Chandler, Heat-
Before Spencer can even finish, Chandler abruptly cuts him off.
Chandler Scott: Next question.
A disappointed Spencer sighs before the group of reporters all rush to be the next to be picked. Chandler narrows his eyes as his focus darts from one reporter to the next. He then points to someone in front of him.
Amanda Johnson: What team are you looking forward to the most that’s left in Dynamic Duos?
Chandler Scott: My opponents this Saturday. As I’ve said before, I would be doing myself a disservice, as well as my partner a disservice, by looking past Danse Macabre and coming up with “dream scenarios” of facing this team or that team. I don’t care who else I’ve teamed with before. I couldn’t care less who else in this field I have history with. The only team I’m focused on right now in Danse Macabre. Next.
Another commotion can be heard as the group of reporters shout over each other. Chandler scans the room from left to right before pointing out another reporter.
Spencer Burke: Are there any issues between yourself and Emilio Vialpando?
Chandler smirks at the mention of Serpiente.
Chandler Scott: No issues at all. He’s a Hall of Famer, just like myself. He’s a multi-time World Champion, just like myself. He’s a hell of a dancer, also like myself. We’re two very proud men that are confident in their abilities, We’re two proud men that speak confidently. And sometimes, that might get received a certain way. We have our disagreements. We have our differing viewpoints. But at the end of the day, I respect the man for not only the athlete that he is, but for everything that’s he’s done in the ring.
The reporters continue to shout over each other until Chandler points one of them out.
Tiffany Jay: There are a number of HKW talent left in the field. Do you think that you have a target on your back from defeating arguably the face of HKW, Felicity Banks, at All-Star Showdown Sx?
Chandler Scott: Well for starters, Felicity isn’t “arguably” the face of HKW. She is the face of HKW. And that’s not a slight, those are just the actual facts. If she wasn’t, then her image wouldn’t be front and center as soon as you go to their website. Now, is there a little HKW pride going on? You heard what one of my opponents said already. And I wouldn’t be surprised if Emilio, Ace Watson and all the rest felt a certain type of way deep down. That’s called professional pride. You just saw your peer, who many regard as one of the best in the world, beaten on the biggest stage by yours truly. I’m sure there’s a part of them that’s salivating at the thought of dropping me in the center of the ring. If they didn’t, I would say that there’s something wrong with them. But Tiffany, guys like me always have targets on their backs. People like Andreas? He always has a target on his back. Emilio? He’s got target on his back. Even top champions like Ashlyn De Luca and Owen Gonsalves have targets on their backs. Every single person left is Big Game for someone else in this tournament. Sure, the end goal is to win Dynamic Duos and procure that Tag Title shot. But look at the names that are left. Look at the champions, both here and elsewhere, that are left. That would look real good on the resumé if you pinned or submitted one of us.
Another shouting contest amongst the reporter is held until Eli Zayn wins out.
Eli Zayn: Give me your thoughts on Artemis Kaiser.
Chandler Scott: Take a look at the list of names that are left in the field. If you were looking for one of the rising stars, you’d probably say Jensen Banks. Though I might be biased, who knows. If you’re looking for guys that are stars right now but are still young, hungry and getting better with time, you’d probably look at Emilio, Ashlyn, Owen, Tommy. If you’re talking legends, you’re talking Andreas or Aurora. If you’re talking about the best wrestlers left in the field, then that list has Chandler Scott at Number One with a bullet. BUT… but… if you’re talking about who is thee most dangerous wrestler left in the field? Then that is clearly Artemis Kaiser.
First off, the wrestling talent is there. She is a Kaiser afterall. But then I look at the things she’s done… the lengths that’s she’s gone… the pain that she’s inflicted. You’d be hard pressed to find another wrestler than can match her level of violence. Andreas tried… and failed. Those are words that you don’t hear too often in the same sentence. But you heard it fairly recently due to the war that she waged with him. A war that she won. She might be short in stature. But her reputation towers over all other challengers. Forget all of the blunt objects. I’ve seen the damage that she can cause with nothing but her bare hands. This tells me that this is going to be a dogfight. Not a wrestling match. But a dogfight. A couple of months ago, Artemis lost her chance to become the 2017 Rey del Aire winner when she got bounced by Laurel Anne Hardy… in the first round… after receiving a Bye. The last thing that Artemis wants to do is get bounced from another FGA invitational… in an early round… after receiving a bye. But I do know that she wants to defeat Andreas again. The chance to defeat him again, alongside “The Boy”, as I was affectionately called? It’s an opportunity that’s too good to pass up. I know that she’s going to give me hell. She’ll push me harder than mos. But if I can be perfectly honest? I’d rather have it no other way. I look forward to being in the ring with the famed “God of Anger”. I look forward to taking her best punch… her best kick… her hardest SLAP. My goal on Saturday night isn’t to simply hold on and try to survive. My goal is to win. And when every head has bowed and every tongue has confessed that Chandler and Andreas reign supreme? You will know that you have been bested by the best.
Thank you.
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Post by Silver Eagle on Jul 20, 2017 20:01:54 GMT -5
The press conference is in full flow, each team taking their turns to answer the questions of the ever hungry press. Starving, like mindless zombies asking the same questions over and over and over again, trying to get into the ego driven mindsets of any and all who had last this long in the tournament. They clambered up, microphones and tape recorders in their hands, hoping, praying for a single line that could make the frontpage of the dirt sheets, to make print in a national publication, to be the click bait on social media and beyond. Each team took their sweet time, promoting themselves, attempting to make themselves the focus of the entire tournament, tired to drill in their measure home whilst instilling fear and doubt into the minds of their opponents. The great smacktalk, one that would do more damage than anything physical attack ever known. A word, a phrase, a verbal commitment, assault, insult that would do so much irreparable damage that the opponent would want to forget all about the match. Such an effect on someone that their entire thought process crumbles to dust and is blown like the wind, fading into the cold night sky as the darkness envelops all. That darkness, that frozen bed of doubt and despair, pulling the frosty blanket of defeat over their heads as they are finally pushed, pushed into the morgue and their chances never, ever rise again.
Lark Robinson: Erm… My name is Lark, and I’m reporting for...
Andreas Lasiewicz: ...
Such familiarity for a dark haired stranger, who doesn’t know whether to ask a question or question themselves. He sat there, the finest suit of midnight and navy, pinstriped and dapper, his tie almost throttling him and his eyes, those piercing and deadly eyes looking up only once as the young interviewer in red froze in her spot.
Lark Robinson: … you know, somewhere. You know where, I think. Possibly. Ahem.
She stuttered, she shook, she paused. He knew who she was and vice versa, but he merely stared and waited.
Lark Robinson: What are your thoughts, if you know, have any or something. You know, on the upcoming match with Danse Macabre?
Andreas Lasiewicz: …
No answer, none was needed. He wasn’t like all of the others. It wasn’t like he couldn’t speak for hours on end, it wasn’t like he couldn’t paint a picture of his opponents being lynched with only the use of letters. But that stare, that single stare said more than any proverbs, phrase or witticism. Another voice came, a lisp to end all lisp as reporters chuckled at the attempted to question.
Vargo Hoat: Miffstar Lassiewix, you areg facings two wimen who are technicully reslated ta yous by marrage, dues to yeurse nieeece being weth their siistar. Yeur thougths?
Andreas Lasiewicz: …
No answer, no response. Just a single stare, the second, the third, the endless. The whole world was watching but he was the world and he made them wait. He tapped his fingers impatiently, his gaze turning to the next, a figure like the ghost of Christmas past...
Jack Griffith: Jack Griffith here, rememb--
Andreas Lasiewicz: …
Jack Griffith: … I won’t bother.
… a figure who knew if they questioned further they would become a ghost themselves. The horde of reporters, once begging to crawl upon the stage and feed upon the brains of the competitors were soon losing their appetite, though some still stepped forth, next a woman of similar age to him, blue and business, proud and pushy.
Karen Lomax: Andreas, recently the wrestling scene saw the reemergence of one of your old allies and one of your old foes, albeit for one night only, in the forms of Silver and Hitachi Hiroshima. You are one of the very few from your own generation still actively competing today. How do you think this generation of wrestlers compares to when you began?
Andreas Lasiewicz: …
The disappointment in her eyes turned to fear with the slightly squint from the veteran, icy blues cutting her heart out with sabers of razor sharp ice.
Jaime Chen: Jaime Chen here from BBC Sport. You are well known friends with your tag partner, Chandler Scott. While it is known that you have trained together on many occasions, it is rare for you to compete as a tandem. You were both very impressive last Flashpoint, but how do you plan on continuing that against a team that are married, and spend almost every day together?
Andreas Lasiewicz: …
Did he expect anything more, did he expect anything less? What were people truly wanting from him? From his tag team partner, his friend, his brother in arms? They were here the same reason as everyone else, he thought that was obvious enough. No song, no dance, just what it needed to be and exactly what they wanted.
David Gregory: David Gregory, Fight International. Although you and Chandler are teaming together, you both have faced once before, back in December 2013, the weekend your first trainee, Isaac Bongartz, tragically passed…
Andreas Lasiewicz: …
That glare, a slight shuffle in the seat, a lean, an ever so subtle lean and a view of the most terrible inferno imaginable coming forth from his face to engulf all those he looked upon.
David Gregory: … erm, t-the match between y-y-you both was rated as five stars… five stars by David Scriven, a-and won the match of the year award over in, erm, San Diego, a match that you won. Does t-that match ever play a factor in your work together?
He sat. He hid. He dared not say another word as time passed, the freshly minted seconds of time falling away and never being seen ever again. And then, there was one. One voice, one person, one question that bore repeating one last time in the valiant and hopeless hope that someone, anyone could hear an answer.
Elena G. Musgrave: Mr. Lasiewicz, let me ask the obvious question like I did Mrs. Kaiser. The six star classic, “the best match of our generation”, as they call it. Kaiser vs. Lasiewicz, that defeat? Does it play a role into the preparation of this match at all?
Andreas Lasiewicz: …
He stood, tall and proud and fearsome. His footsteps were silent as he breathed in the air, taking great gulps as to suffocate the whole room in his selfishness. The crowd did not know what to think as he hummed a melody, the theme from the classic film his alliance was named after. A gasp, shock, a golden chain hand down, appearing from the void as a single click turned the spiked sphere into glorious flames. He swung, the people moved, the table shattered upon the great power and weight as flames rose up. Everyone had moved bar too. Him, Andreas Lasiewicz. Her, Artemis Kaiser. She sat there staring at the destruction caused by the very real Morningstar, and he smiled as she simply looked on.
The message was sent without a word.
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Tritch.
Making Waves
The Avatar of Brutality, and his babysitter
Posts: 88
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Post by Tritch. on Jul 20, 2017 23:21:25 GMT -5
The door to the conference room opens and in comes the professionally dressed PW backstage interviewer Kiko Hirayama, looking cute in her short sleeved red dress and matching low heels, though she is struggling a little bit with a wheeled cart that’s carrying a large flat screen TV and other paraphernalia. Murmurs are ignored as she moves it into position near the podium, and turns it on with a remote she fishes out of her top. At first, the screen is showing nothing but the mostly empty side parking lot of the Liacouras Center, though at the far end a police cruiser is seen driving by. Kiko waves happily at the other press corps members and then picks up her microphone.
Kiko Hirayama: Hello again, I’m Kiko Hirayama, backstage interviewer for Phoenix Wrestling and I’m here tonight to ask some questions of the team known as Tommy and the Guns. They’ll be here in just a minute, I received a call about ‘this..traffic’
It’s very clear that Kiko has heavily edited what was said to her in the call as she makes the most adorable innocent expression. She turns and watches the image on the flatscreen TV until there’s movement at the far end of the parking lot. She claps her hands (careful of the microphone) and points.
Kiko Hirayama: And here they come!
It takes just a few moments for the object on screen to get closer and thus into better focus, a murmuring going over the gathered as it becomes clear what they are seeing. It’s an M1 Abrams Tank, painted in vibrant red, white, and blue with a decal of Tommy and Aurora dressed in questionable (but colorful) Army-style camouflage outfits emblazoned on the side. The tank is doing a great job of chewing up some of the parking lot’s asphalt without a care and comes to a halt near the doorway to the backstage area. The top of the tank pops open and out comes Aurora dressed as she is in the decal with pink and black camo, the shorts would make Lara Croft seethe with envy and the top is open and tied over a white wifebeater because let’s be real, that shirt wasn’t going to stay buttoned over her chest, ever. Her heavy custom boots hit the pavement and she moves out of the way, adjusting her pink and black combat helmet over her similarly colored and streaked hair as Tommy comes out of the turret and slides down the side of the tank, landing lightly with a “cigar” chomped between his teeth and his own camo hardly regulation. Spying the video link drone Aurora gives it a sketchy salute as the pair walk to enter the building and disappear from the TV screen, leaving only the idling tank.
Kiko Hirayama: Any minute now…
The door is finally booted open by Tommy who then gestures for Rori to enter first, she does so with a grin and crosses to stand near Kiko at the podium.
Aurora: That’s a nice TV Kiko, did you ‘borrow’ that from the arena or did we pay for it?
Tommy Evans: We didn’t steal it.
Tommy pauses.
Tommy Evans: Or the tank.
With a grin Aurora leads Tommy to “their” designated area and Kiko follows, handing a large briefcase of the type used in spy movies and so on, and they proceed with opening it without letting anyone else see what's inside ala Pulp Fiction. While they're messing around with this other teams take over the podium for their messages, including Blonde Ambition. Rori saucily returns Heather's wink and mimes a classic one handed booty grab with a melodic laugh.
Kiko Hirayama: So we should probably head back up to the podium, right?
While Kiko asks her question, Tommy reaches into the briefcase with determination on his face, producing two rocks glasses as he casts a glance at the interviewer, making sure she knows he’s paying attention. He proceeds to pull out two maraschino cherries, dropping one in each, then two small orange slices and doing the same.
Aurora: Just a sec, Kiko. We’ve got an artist at work here.
Kiko Hirayama: Um, Tommy?
Tommy nods his head a few times, whilst dropping a sugar cube in each glass and then dabbing a few drops of bitters. He then produces a muddler, grinding all of the ingredients down in each glass.
Tommy Evans: Don’t mind me, carry on.
He then drops a few ice cubes in each, it’s anybody’s guess how he pulled ice cubes out of a briefcase, before producing a small flask-sized bottle of Jack. He pours in three fingers, then pulls out a bottle of lemonade, polishing off each glass and giving them a gentle stir. He then closes the briefcase, sliding it away and setting one of the glasses in front of Aurora.
Tommy Evans: One second.
He closes his eyes, lifting the glass and taking a small whiff. A smile spreads onto his lips, then he takes a sip, and lets out a refreshing sigh.
Tommy Evans: You’re absolutely right, Kiko. Good question.
He says with a straight face, nodding and turning to Aurora.
Aurora: Usually I just drink Johnnie Walker Blue, but I’m making an exception for this tasty beverage.
She takes a sip and then smacks her lips, toasting it towards the gathered wrestlers before making her way back up to stand in front of the podium, not behind it. She gives Tommy a curious look before she blurts out.
Aurora: Fuck. Did we leave the tank running?
Tommy Evans: Eh, it’s a hybrid, who cares?
Kiko makes her way over, and manages to look comfortable despite how the pair are acting.
Kiko Hirayama: So, do you two have any thoughts about your upcoming match against Logan and Ashlyn?
Aurora pipes up.
Aurora: Pretty sure they’re called The Chaotics, Kiko.
Kiko Hirayama: Right, right. The Chaotics. So do either of you have any…
Tommy Evans: I HAVE THOUGHTS.
Tommy casts a narrow-eyed glance across the room towards his long-time girlfriend, slowly raising the glass for another sip.
Tommy Evans: Oh, about wrestling them? Obviously that too. I don’t think anybody expected this clash to happen this early, but I was honestly hoping for it as strange as that might seem. While she’s got Logan at her side and I’ve got Rori by mine this time, so things are a little different, we never got that chance to achieve our goal of facing each other in the finals of the Young Guns Cup. So I’m really excited that I get to throw hands with my boo, and I mean that in the most respectful, non-domestic way possible.
He winks at her, taking another sip, before glancing over at Aurora. She glances back with a wicked curl to her lips and toasts over at Logan and Ashlyn.
Kiko Hirayama: Ms Au…
Aurora: Perception is a bitch, Kiko. Neither of my opponents have ever been able to defeat me one on one. Now being a fair ...no, we’ll leave the nickname that Ashlyn used to call me in the past. It’s in the rearview. Back along with the time I lost a title to her because I tried to murder her. Back then. My history with Logan is a bit further back, and frankly between the two of them, I can fully say there’s nothing personal in what I’m contemplating on doing to either of them. Perception. Is. A BIG ol’ bitch. People love to sling around that I’ve got some unfathomable and untouchable record because you know, that’s the easy way to explain things, right? Please. I can lose a match just like everyone else in this room has. Every single one of you. So, here we are. Tommy and I for all the…
She pauses to take a sip and makes that particular ‘well it is tasty’ face.
Aurora: ...yip yap, are here to wrestle. This is what we do. I’m going to drop both of them on their heads because I’m super good at that, and it’s not like they haven’t felt it before. I’m sure that Logan has whetted the best weapons in his arsenal for this match. Dead sure of it. But understand this… we’re here to wrestle, not murder anyone.
Tommy casts a sideways glance, at his partner, mouthing the word ‘murder?’ before taking another big drink of his Lynchburg Old Fashioned with his eyes open wide.
Kiko Hirayama: Mr. To…
Tommy Evans: I feel like a lot of the talk about this particular match has been the De Luca/Evans story, but this is a tag match. While I’m looking forward to testing my mettle not only with a new tag team partner, but against my shmurda queen, it’s not like I’ve forgotten Old Man Logan is in the other corner as well. I’ve heard a lot about him and seen a lot of his stuff through the years, and I feel that way about a lot of the people in this tournament. Like Rori said, we’re here to wrestle. I just love getting in the ring and doing what I’m good at, and I want to do it on the best stages against the best people in the business. So the chance for me to stand in the ring next to one of my idols staring across the ring at two people I have a lot of respect for… I’ve got chills, man.
Kiko Hirayama: Well that’s really…
Aurora: So Tommy bet you a hundred bucks we can do donuts in the parking lot, in the tank.
Tommy Evans: DOUBLE OR NOTHING! ELEVEN TO ONE!
Aurora: As a PSA we have a driver so we can in fact, be drunk as fuck and ride in this tank. Peace out.
Tommy Evans: Thanks Uber!
With that, Tommy pushes his chair back, tipping the glass up to finish its contents, before setting it on the table with another refreshing sigh. He looks toward Aurora, who follows suit, and the two walk back towards the doors they came in through, leaving everyone a bit stunned at the unorthodox presser they just witnessed.
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