AfterBurn for OTSS

[FGA Office]

Catch up with your favorite FGA grapplers on AfterBurn! Get their thoughts on the latest, their opponents, and other backstage happenings right here, only on AxxessNet!

[Susan Kent]

Susan returns to her locker room following her United States Tag Team title match.

Dana: That outcome was complete bullshit.

Susan says nothing as she sits on the bench, Jessie Pederson walks in.

Jessie: Bummer out their tonight.

Dana: Ms. Pederson, I'm going on the record right now and this can be taken however anyone chooses, Susan and Delikado were deliberately deceived by Ms. Anders, and Ms. Mine, they knew using names unfamiliar to Susan and Delikado that it would give them the advantage in tonights title defense, and this turned to be true. As you saw Ms. Pederson, Susan and Delikado delivered very little offense in tonight tag team title match and the champions used their deception to their advantage, not the actions of two ladies considered honorable champions, normally Kendra or myself would file a protest on this matter, but since we feel Ms. Geroux was part of this deception we feel a protest, would only be met with more lies and deception from Ms. Geroux.

Jessie: Okay, I wasn't expecting that.

Susan continues to sit looking down at the floor.

Jessie: Okay, I guess I'll talk to Susan later.

[James Edwards]

It hasn't been James Edwards night. He's been thrown in the trash, given an unfavorable draw in the Gold Rush Rumble, and failed to get one over on Nina Stokes, again. He doesn't even have the U.S. Championship to lord over. There is no one to vent his anger to or go out for a consolatory beer with.

He's alone with only his angry footsteps to keep him company as he does his damnedest to get out of Milwaukee as soon as possible. The problem? He's about to have company and not the kind he wants at the moment.

Flashpoint's backstage correspondent, Amanda Johnson, blocks the door to freedom with a satisfied smirk on her face.

Amanda Johnson: You don't look nearly as happy as I thought you would without the championship.

Edwards stops well short of approaching Amanda, leaving a considerable amount of distance between the two. More than likely for her good--and his.

Amanda Johnson: C'mon, James, you were so eager to be free of the belt, and here you are, free to finally challenge for the International Heavyweight Championship!

Johnson's sarcasm is beyond brazen and borderline unprofessional, but the majority of the audience watching at home doesn't mind. The Burning Heart is reaping what he sowed.

Amanda Johnson: Oh, that's right. You didn't win the Rumble either. Who eliminated you? I can't seem to recall who was it that eliminated you, do you remember by any chance?

She damn well knows the answer, as does the world, but the heart of a good troll job is always smartass questions with obvious responses. James balls his fists like he wants nothing more than to bridge the divide between the two and tear the reporter apart. He puffs an angry breath from between snarling lips.

Amanda Johnson: It was satisfying to watch Salem kick your ass all over the arena tonight. Everyone backstage laughed when she threw you against the dumpster.

Hearing that name is more than enough to animate Edwards. He power walks over to Amanda to where he is microphone range. He stops, and Johnson instinctively holds the tool up for James to speak into.

James Edwards: I got what I deserved tonight, but that doesn't give you the right to be such a bitch about it!

Amanda flashes Edwards a tart look. He's crossed a line, but she knows she has to, so she nods and steps out of his, allowing Edwards to skulk away into the Milwaukee night as the scene fades to black.

[Seth Iser]

You can hear one loud groan in obvious pain well off in the distance as the camera man starts to hustle over toward the source of that sound. Through the door and into the locker room and laying on the bench by himself is Seth Iser, finally just changed into attire that isn’t his wrestling gear but he seems completely spent. He’s got a red t-shirt that says ‘School of Tradition’ and a pair of jeans on, opting for something far more casual rather than his usual professional look because perhaps he doesn’t even trust himself to get himself dressed to that level with how bad his arm is ailing him. He’s grunting again in pain as he eyeballs the camera and forces himself to sit up with some difficulty and his teeth gritting. His right arm? It’s practically useless.


Seth Iser: You have no idea how hard it was to even put a shirt on with one arm. You have no idea how hard it is to dress yourself entirely or even shower...with one arm. But it’s worth it because I’m still the FGA Pride Champion...


He lets out a sigh as he leans back and his face can’t hide the fact that he’s in an unbelievable amount of pain and exhaustion though pain seems much more of the dominant mood of the two. The breathing is a little labored still as he uses his non ailing arm to wipe more perspiration off of his face.


Seth Iser: I took your best shot with everything YOU could dish out and I---urgh…


Iser winces as even anger can’t course the adrenaline to get him to dull that pain.


Seth Iser: I took your best shot and I’m still the man...and now you have to live with that for quite a while. And I gave you MY best shot, and you couldn’t get up from Black Magic. The last ace in the hole any great veteran has when they’re pushed is something they can go to...and you left me no other choice but to use it. But I passed the test with honor...like I said I would. You damn near broke my arm AND dislocated my shoulder...but you failed the test.


Seth lets out a pained chuckle on the bench before coughing out in exhaustion but the chuckle turns into a slight laugh before another grunt in pain and you see his left hand ball up in a minute and his head jerk back, his shoulder is bothering him in the worst way let alone his arm considering what was done to him.


Seth Iser: You proved why you’re a Grand Slam Champion and have that legendary viciousness to your name. Just...I proved why I’m the Greatest Mind in the Sport. I always have that one little thing I need when it matters most in a one on one conquest. But give yourself credit...I seldom ever feel pushed to have to go to that tactic. You left me with no other choice. Wear that probable concussion you have with some pride…


Seth lets out a grunt as he taps the Pride Title over his shoulder with his left hand and finally he puts on a smile that’s more genuine as if he’s allowing himself to revel in it just a little.


Seth Iser: But I proved I’m still better than you by the narrowest of margins. But it doesn’t matter how big the margin is...because you made my legacy greater tonight. I thank you for that. And now you have to live with that stamp that I’m just that little bit better for a while now because I proved my point. And now...I’m that much closer to having my Pride back. It’s almost there...even if I was too damned exhausted to really be a factor in that damn Gold Rush Rumble…but congratulations Marlon. I know that was a long time coming for you.


Seth’s face darkens at that failure for a moment as he again grunts in pain before he wills himself to stand and he’s slightly spaghetti legged getting his balance for a moment but he’s upright but another yelp in agony for his shoulder as he had to move it slightly and it obviously shot down pain through his entire ailing arm.


Seth Iser: Just do me a favor...even if you already owe me one, and win the World Title or I’ll feel worse about that...and most of this locker room will be rooting for you. At least the ones with respect for this business anyhow...but that’s as far as I want to discuss that.


Seth lets out a cough as he takes a step toward the camera.


Seth Iser: But now the road to All-Star Showdown begins. And I already know who I’m facing...I’m facing a man who essentially came into the company at the same time as I did in Tyler Storm. And I know that deep down you want to right the wrong that was losing to the least deserving human being and champion in the history of this company...but you’re not going to be the only one with an axe to grind because I almost have my pride back like I said. Almost…


A bitter look crosses over Seth’s face as again he takes one step over.


Seth Iser: You’re in my way to getting it all back because I’m not exactly a thrilled man YOU have your hand raised over me not once but twice on Pay Per View and now we’re going to the grandest show of them all for this company and you want that third one so bad and this championship to validate your journey in here. The thing is...as much as this title means to me, I wouldn’t want it if you’re a better man and wrestler than me!


Seth shakes his head and grunts as he labors one more step toward the camera while showcasing the Pride Title over his shoulder but he’s shouting.


Seth Iser: But you won’t be. Not in LA! I’ll prove to have that one little thing more over YOU as well. I’ll prove why I am indeed THE FGA Pride Champion. As good as you are and as much as all those people adore what you do...it won’t be enough to beat what I’ve become. And I’ll be damn near unstoppable when I have my full pride back. I refuse to add to YOUR legacy any further...because when that bell rings they won’t talk about a loaded pad or your shenanigans with my brother...the story will be that Seth Iser is still one of the best the industry has ever seen and truly Wrestling’s Greatest Mind and that Tyler Storm, as good as he is, as great as he’s becoming even...is just that narrowest of margins underneath what it takes to beat Seth Iser when everything is on the line…


With that closing statement Seth taps the Pride Championship over his left shoulder before he starts to lumber in a very labored manner out of sight, using his anger as that shot of adrenaline to get himself going again.

[Delikado]

Backstage, Delikado and his managers are making their exit from the arena, a common sight in these AfterBurns, only this time they’re stopped…by interviewer Spencer Burke!

Spencer Burke: Delikado, Sofia, Ewan, may I just—

Sofia Monzón: Move.

Sofia roughly pushes her client’s wheelchair past Burke, nearly knocking him over in the process.

Spencer Burke: Good gracious! I only wanted a word—

Sofia Monzón: [off-screen, from a distance] Nope.

Ewan Jakeway stops to look at the dismissed interviewer. They both share the same frown of disappointment, to the point Ewan puts on a cordial smile and quickly approaches Burke.

Ewan Jakeway: What the hey, I’ll share a word or two with you, Spens!

Spencer Burke: Really?

Ewan Jakeway: Well sure, we’ve never talked before, why not now at the big Supershow? It’s not like anybody’s gonna say I can’t.

Sofia Monzón: [off-screen, from a distance] Ewan, do not talk to the interviewer!

Ewan Jakeway: …Oh.

He looks back in the direction Sofia and Delikado went, then back to Spencer, who is starting to look dejected again. Weighing his options, Ewan leans in closely toward the interviewer and whispers.

Ewan Jakeway: Okay, we can talk, but we gotta be quick.

Spencer Burke: You got it. Obviously the focal point for your client’s match tonight was not so much failing to win the United States Tag Team Championship, but that Sara Mason and Erin Mariani COST Delikado and Susan Kent the belts.

Ewan folds his arms across his chest and deepens his frown as he glances at the camera. He continues to whisper as he makes his response.

Ewan Jakeway: SHAME on you, shame ON you, shame on YOU, Silk & Cyanide! Only The Strong Survive could have been a great, big, glorious event for everyone, this match could’ve been the match of the entire US Tag division’s existence, and the match could’ve been the biggest in a lot of careers—yours included! “Why is that”, you’re probably asking? Because now everything you stand for, everything you hope to gain, is on the fine line. You want those US titles, desperately, and they could’ve been yours if you’d just waited—and then gotten through the champions. Now whether the champions would’ve been Fujiko and Izzy, or Delikado and Susan Kent, makes no difference now. We’ll never know how history would’ve gone tonight if you bullies hadn’t interfered. But what even I can believe, despite not speaking his telepathic language, is that Delikado will insure that your history from here on out is payback—heck to pay, as they say!

Sofia Monzón: [off-screen, from a distance] EWAN, YOU HAD BETTER NOT BE TALKING TO THAT INTERVIEWER AND HAD BETTER BE GETTING YOUR ASS OVER HERE!

Ewan Jakeway: [normal voice] I-I-I’m just looking for my glasses!

Sofia Monzón: [off-screen, from a distance] YOU DON’T WEAR GLASSES!

Ewan hurriedly pulls out his cellphone and begins fingering through it.

Ewan Jakeway: W-Well that’s the thing, honey, my vision is getting kinda wonky, so I’m just looking up some new high-quality glasses with our latest sponsor, Walmart Vision & Glasses.

Sofia Monzón: [off-camera, from a distance] WE DON’T HAVE A SPONSOR, AND IF WE DID IT WOULDN’T BE <BEEP>ING WALMART!

Ewan Jakeway: J-Just give ‘em a chance, Sofia! Walmart is good, honest people*! I know your lovely eyes have 20/20 vision, but my vision isn’t the best, and who knows if Delikado’s “old maniness” won’t require him some top-of-the-line glasses down the road? As one of his two managers, this is an investment I’m hoping will benefit us greatly in ALL of our FGA careers!

Sofia Monzón: [off-camera, from a distance] WHAT THE <BEEP> EVER, JUST HAUL ASS! WE HAVE A SCHEDULE TO KEEP HERE!

Ewan Jakeway: Right-o, honey, I love you! …..Well great, Spens, now I have to get us a Walmart sponsorship that way I’m not lying to my girlfriend.

Spencer Burke: Been there.

Ewan Jakeway: Anyway……[turning back to camera, whispering] See, Erin and Sara, my client’s an old coot with altering states of dementia, and yet he never forgets a screw-job. Though he may miss the point on “the young people”, he never misses out on an opportunity to achieve vengeance. While he’s mellow and cool as a cucumber appearance-wise, on a personal, philosophical level he’d go to war with someone over a cucumber. Now, your name might be another of those “war and peace”, “sugar and spice”, “lemon and lime” alternate things to suggest good and bad mixed together. People either get the good, the “silk”, or they get the bad, the “cyanide”, and tonight you dished out some of that cyanide to deprive Delikado and Susan of a title-securing victory. You poured cyanide on the reign of Fujiko Mine and Izzy Anders. Now, in this case neither dose was fatal, but it was humiliating. It was your intent to prove a point, to grab a rematch, but knowing my client like I think I do, I can say your cyanide awoke something fierce.

Though he’s usually the “peace-maker” of the trio, Ewan can’t help but suddenly look SUPER determined as he stares into the camera, whispering all the more harshly so that Sofia won’t hear him.

Ewan Jakeway: See now…now it’s Delikado’s turn to wield the cyanide! What’s worse, for you, and maybe for some other people, is that as a Cuban relic of the Cold War, Delikado knows how to use cyanide on a metaphorical level, and also a physical level. This isn’t to say a literal poisoning is coming your way, but it is to say payback’s coming, humiliation is coming, and a taste of something foul is coming to go down your throats. You’ll be forced to take it all and swallow it all, just as Fujiko, Izzy, Susan, and Delikado all had to take what you dished out tonight. It works that the show is “Only The Strong Survive”, because only the strongest can hope to survive a cyanide ingesting. Despite all appearances, Delikado survived tonight, Silk & Cyanide. Delikado will recover from this “assassination attempt”. Delikado finds himself stronger for what you’ve made us take. Delikado will pump our stomachs of your poison, and Delikado is going to return it to you tenfold.

Ewan holds his intense focus on the screen for a few more seconds, then suddenly snaps alert like he’s waking from a trance.

Ewan Jakeway: Huh…W-What am I doing here…?

Spencer Burke: You were just addressing Silk & Cyanide, and their interference in your client’s match…

Ewan Jakeway: W-Was I…? Huh. Weird, I have no memory of that. Say, you ever been possessed, Spens?

Spencer Burke: Can’t say I have. What about…. you…?

Ewan strokes his chin in curious thought.

Ewan Jakeway: Well, I’m not saying I have been, by Delikado or anyone else, but I will say my head suddenly hurts and my body feels inexplicably violated with a “Cuban essence”.

An FGA staffer walks by.

FGA Staffer: Sounds like somebody ate Taco Bell, what what!

He goes to offer a high-five to either Spencer or Ewan, but both just stare at him until he awkwardly walks off. Spencer clears his throat.

Spencer Burke: Anywho, that’s quite a powerful address you…or possibly a Delikado possession…have given us, Ewan. We here in the FGA hope to see and hear more of you all in these kind of settings.

Ewan Jakeway: Oh of course, we’ll be around, Spens. We’re not going anywhere, haha! …..Oh jeepers, I gotta go somewhere!

He starts to rush off, prompting Spencer to call out with curiosity.

Spencer Burke: Where’re you going?

Ewan Jakeway: My client has a fight tonight!

Spencer Burke: ANOTHER one?!

Ewan Jakeway: Yep! Duty and multiple plotlines call, Spens!

With Ewan hurrying off, Spencer turns to the camera and nods once.

Spencer Burke: There you have it, folks. Duty and multiple plotlines call…whatever that means…so I guess you should stay tuned for more action, right here in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in the fallout to FGA’s Only The Strong Survive!

Fade to black.

TO BE CONTINUED

*citation needed

[Fujiko Mine]

As confetti rains down from the rafters of Fiserv Forum, Fujiko stands on the middle turnbuckle, the FGA World championship raised in her right hand. “Ain’t Nobody” continues to play as she leans back slightly, taking in the adoration of the crowd. XENA stands in the center of the ring, proudly holding onto Fujiko’s US tag team championship. Fujiko turns and looks at her, grinning before she comes down and embraces the PAINMOTHER in another hug.

“YOU DESERVE IT!”

*Clap-Clap-ClapClapClap*

“YOU DESERVE IT!”

*Clap-Clap-ClapClapClap*

“YOU DESERVE IT!”

*Clap-Clap-ClapClapClap*

“YOU DESERVE IT!”

*Clap-Clap-ClapClapClap*

“YOU DESERVE IT!”

*Clap-Clap-ClapClapClap*

Tears continue down Fujiko’s face as she holds onto the championship. She goes out of the ring, immediately over to where Arkia Fisk Jones and Tj Jones are standing, applauding her. She wraps them up into an embrace, lasting a few moments before she breaks off, high fiving everyone at ringside. She stops to pose for a selfie or two with the FGA championship, until she’s made it all the way around ringside.

As she makes it to the entrance ramp, XENA hands her the United States Tag Team championship, and she holds both up high to another loud cheer from the crowd.

“YOU DESERVE IT!”

*Clap-Clap-ClapClapClap*

“YOU DESERVE IT!”

*Clap-Clap-ClapClapClap*

“YOU DESERVE IT!”

*Clap-Clap-ClapClapClap*

“YOU DESERVE IT!”

*Clap-Clap-ClapClapClap*

“YOU DESERVE IT!”

*Clap-Clap-ClapClapClap*

She frees one of her hands by placing the US tag team championship on her shoulder, then slowly retreats back up the ramp and to the backstage area.

As she gets there, Spencer Burke meets her after a few steps, microphone in hand.

Spencer Burke: Fujiko, emotions running high tonight here as Only the Strong Survive has ended, but it ended the way you said it would. After an amazing match with Evan Envi, you defeated him to become the new FGA World champion. How were you able to commit so much heart to this after your match earlier in the night?

Fujiko sloppily wipes her eyes with her forearm, trying to look presentable for the segment.

Fujiko Mine: All credit to this city on the assist. I was feeling pretty hurt after that fall from the top rope. I know that it was Silk & Cyanide’s best hope to not only ruin our title match, but to put me at a disadvantage for the main event. They wanted to be able to rub that in my face. But the energy from the people here. They helped me ignore the pain. They gave me the energy I needed when I felt like I was wiped out. They pleaded with me to not give up. How could I not? There was no way I was going to let them down.

Spencer Burke: How does it feel that you have not only accomplished your goal of winning the World championship, but you now have the grand slam. How does that feel?

Fujiko blinks, the realization dawning on her.

Fujiko Mine: It’s amazing. To know that there are people here who thought I wouldn’t amount to anything...those who thought I wasn’t going to get here...I’ve proven them wrong. And that’s the sweetest revenge. Let anyone say I don’t deserve this. They’re lying, and they know they are. I’ve outworked everyone since I came back. I took home Fan Favorite and Wrestler of the Year. I cemented my legacy with the Pride championship...and now I’m the World champion. The world champion of the greatest promotion on this planet. I am the Apex. And I will defend this championship to stay that way.

Spencer Burke: Your feelings on Marlon Cure winning the Gold Rush Rumble? Or about Evan Envi wanting a rematch?

Fujiko nods, still keeping her demeanor high.

Fujiko Mine: Congrats to Marlon. He earned it. He talks big, but for the most part he’s been able to back up his words. He has a big decision to make. Does he want to challenge Savannah Taylor for her International Heavyweight Championship…

She looks over at her newly won FGA World championship.

Fujiko Mine: For for this? Let me say this, I look forward to his answer. And if he picks me, he will find that a Goddess has no use for a man who claims to be king…

She nods at Spencer, then looks back in the direction of the ring.

Fujiko Mine: If Evan wants a shot at me? I don’t mind turning him back. My grip on this belt is not loosening even the slightest anytime soon.

Fujiko brings up a smirk.

Fujiko Mine: Ricky Valero wanted to know what that smile feels like. The smile when you hold the FGA World Championship...and you know that it’s yours?

Her smirk broadens into a grin.

Fujiko Mine: Tell him that it feels….good. Thanks, Spence.

She pats him on the shoulder. Moving past him, she continues to head back towards her locker room. As she makes her way back, she passes by the medical bay. Within there, there’s some commotion. Staff members were losing a battle against someone, telling them to stay down. It doesn’t succeed as they’re forced out of the way. The camera turns to witness Izzy Anders coming out of the door. Bruises and dried blood litters her face from the onslaught she took during her Pride Championship match. A look of resigned sadness presents themselves to Fujiko first before it seems to trickle in favor of a somber but proud gaze.

There is a palpable pause, something created by the long history of the now accomplished tag team partners. Izzy casts a look at the championship that she tore the whole company apart for, but nary an emotion registers beyond what’s already there. Then Izzy stumbles forward, almost falling over from damage and exhaustion. Yet, she lands onto Fujiko, giving her a tired but meaningful embrace. She only lasts there for a while before she pulls herself away. With a pained groan, she rests her back against the wall but tries to appear as if nothing is wrong.

Izzy Anders: Do you feel vindicated?

Izzy’s voice is weak, a tad broken, and she almost chokes out the words. Fujiko’s face loses some of the joy that was present. Her concern for her tag team partner overrides her feelings for a moment, but her smile returns when she realizes that Izzy would not let her talk about anything but what just happened.

She looks away from Izzy, and at the FGA World championship again. Her eyes linger on the gold for a while before she tears it away in favor for looking back at her fellow Grand Slam winner.

Fujiko Mine: Vindicated?

A short laugh.

Fujiko Mine: Not yet.

She loses her smile again.

Fujiko Mine: I’ve got to make sure I defend it now. It’s been an odyssey to get here, but the journey isn’t over yet. I can already hear the calls of “fluke”, and I need to silence those critics.

She adjusts the championships in her grasp.

Fujiko Mine: But I know it’s not a fluke. I know it wasn’t by accident. I know I earned this, and I created history once again. I know that I’m one of the only...if the only...double champions in history. I know I earned this. But I also know that my accomplishments are going to be minimized. But... I know that I am now the World champion...and that is what I am going to focus on.

She nods to Mindkiller.

Fujiko Mine: I am going to be a fighting champion. I am going to be one of the best FGA World champions to ever do it. But that starts on Vertigo. Tonight…

Tears that she did her best to try and hold back come flowing out.

Fujiko Mine: Tonight is just the best night of my life.

Izzy nods at Fujiko, fighting back some tears herself. She drags a finger softly against her swollen eye before speaking again.

Izzy Anders: Then spend it not thinking about what happens next. This is here, this is now. If you don’t, you might regret it in the future.

The Mindkiller nods, looking off in another direction.

Izzy Anders: I wish I could have been out there but I can tell ya...the whole building rocked when you won.

She looks out towards where the ringside area is. A grin creeps across her face.

Fujiko Mine: I still have to look down to make sure my feet are on the ground. This is wild.

She taps her right boot on the ground to be sure. She then unleashes a ragged cough, causing her to momentarily clutch her back.

Fujiko Mine: I am going to hurt so much tomorrow.

The Apex Goddess grimaces, contorting her torso. She then puts her head down, letting her hair cover up her face.

Fujiko Mine: Speaking of hurt...you haven’t seen where Evan went, did you?

Izzy blinks twice before shaking her head ‘no.’

Izzy Anders: No, I don’t believe I have.

The FGA World champion lets out a heavy sigh.

Fujiko Mine: Oh. Okay.

Izzy Anders: Why so? He probably--I mean, he’s probably a bit off about it.

For a bit, she has a deflated look.

Fujiko Mine: You’re right. Winning this was the greatest accomplishment I’ve achieved. I don’t ever wanna know what it’s like to lose it.

She shakes her head, bringing her focus back onto her tag team partner.

Fujiko Mine: Please go get some rest, Izzy. We’ll worry about paying back Silk & Cyanide when we get back on Vertigo.

Izzy looks as if she was about to say something but she stops to ponder on it. She tilts her head.

Izzy Anders: Don’t go after a person who you don’t know that you can really trust, Fujiko. Remember that only a little while ago, he was probably wanting to end everything you have done to hang onto what you have on your shoulder.

With a look towards the ground, Izzy opts to head back to the awaiting medical staff.

Izzy Anders: Take it easy, Fujiko. We’ll talk later.

She nods at Izzy, and watches as the former Pride champion makes her exit. A moment or two later, Nina Stokes walks into the frame. She gives Fujiko a head nod.

Nina Stokes: It appears you’ve had quite the night, yeah?

Fujiko takes deep breaths as she smiles at the Flashpoint star.

Fujiko Mine: The night of my life, Nina. It’s good to see you.

Nina Stokes: Good to see you too.

Her eyes dip down towards the FGA World Championship for a second or two they rest back on Fujiko.

Nina Stokes: Congrats. Truly.

Fujiko Mine: Thank you, Nina. I know I might sound a little bit like a politician right now, but I really appreciate your support. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have doubts. But to push them aside and achieve this, I needed people like you to tell me I could do it.

Nina cracks her neck before she speaks.

Nina Stokes: I support those who have supported me. You’re on that short list--

There’s a small pause.

Nina Stokes: Though, be sure to protect yourself at all times.

Once more, her eyes moved towards the belt.

Nina Stokes: You’re safe from me. But it’s wild around these parts. Do be careful, yes?

She follows Nina’s gaze the last time she takes a look at the championship.

Fujiko Mine: I will do my best to be careful. But I’m not going to hide this title away. I want to defend it. I know that target is now on my back, but you won’t find me running from that...I’m going to take on as many challengers as I will be allowed, and turn them all away. No resting on laurels. If I have my way, I will be the greatest FGA World champion in history.

A small smile escapes Nina.

Nina Stokes: I have little doubt.

She snaps her fingers.

Nina Stokes: I’ve got to run. But, enjoy your night, Fujiko. The evening is young, yeah?

Fujiko nods to her.

Fujiko Mine: Yeah. Thanks for finding me. Enjoy your night.

Nina Stokes: Oh, and do call Ryan. She’ll want to hear about your victory.

Fujiko gives her a wave before slowly limping towards where XENA is standing. Fujiko perks up when she hears a faint “Fujiko” chant coming from the ringside area, minutes after she’d disappeared behind the curtain. It brings tears of joy back all over again. At this point, her eyes are puffy and red from all the crying. But as she slowly ambles towards the PAINMOTHER, she can’t help but continue to cry.

XENA: Congrats, Tessa. Thanks for bringing me along for the ride.

Fujiko Mine: Th-thank you for being here with me, Dina. This is for us. We did this.

XENA looks to protest, but closes her mouth in a smile; letting Fujiko have this.

XENA: Alright, Ms. Grand Slam. It’s time we get you to the celebration.

Fujiko can’t help but roll her eyes.

Fujiko Mine: I’m sure once I get out of my gear, I’m going to be basically immobile...but okay…

XENA gives her a sympathetic smile.

XENA: Don’t sweat it, Tessa. If I gotta carry you around, you can bet I’ll do it. The hard work begins tomorrow, but let’s enjoy the victory tonight! WOOO!

XENA scoops up the dual champion, carrying her down the hall as the scene fades to black.

[LΞCAVALIΞR]

Cut backstage. The camera catches up to Nina Stokes as she is walking down the hallway. It’s been a moderate amount of time since the Gold Rush Rumble has concluded, which is evidenced by her appearance. Her ring attire retired to her Nike gym bag. Instead, she now rocks a black Nike sports bra, black and white Nike NSW leggings, and a black and purple pair of Nike Kobe XI Elite shoes.

The camera zooms in a little bit as Nina continues to walk. As it does, the camera reveals something on her face―

A smirk.

Nina quickly notes the camera’s presence as she turns ever so slightly and gazes into its lens as she brush some of her hair out of her eyes.

Nina Stokes: Oh? Did you expect me to be angry and cursing up a storm?

There’s a tiny pause as she shakes her head.

Nina Stokes: Those type of remarks are reserved for people who are disappointed in themselves. I don’t fall into that category. Not this evening, and rarely on any other night.

She lifts up both of her hands and holds up seven fingers.

Nina Stokes: Seven...Seven eliminations...Seven broken hearts...Seven buckets of tears...Seven.

She pauses her speech for a moment.

Nina Stokes: I didn’t win to Gold Rush Rumble, true enough. However, I eliminated big names. I eliminated current and former champions within FGA. And I elevated my stock to unprecedented heights in a mere matter of thirty or so minutes…

Nina Stokes: We’d call that a W in my part of the town.

Nina cracks her knuckles as she continues walking.

Nina Stokes: Given all of that, what’s next?

There’s a moment's pause.

Nina Stokes: Hmm. I don’t know. I guess we’re all just have to see, yeah?

She lets out a small laugh and a nonchalant wave. As she does, the camera begins to fade out.

[The Mason]

The scene fades in, focused initially on an oversized poster bearing the title ONLY THE STRONG SURVIVE taped to the corridor wall, featuring the faces of Evan Envi, and the hometown hero, Fujiko Mine, dead-center. The camera lingers here for several seconds until we hear the gentle beat and scuffle of footsteps. We pan to the right, in the direction of the sound… and making his way out of the dimly lit, dressing room section of the arena is the now-former FGA World Champion, “The Chief” Evan Envi.

Evan wheels his suitcase behind him, gaze downcast. His left cheek looks to be nearly painted a pinkish-red, still showing the effects of the end of the evening’s main event. He spares a quick glance toward the camera operator before averting his gaze and beginning to continue on-- before he slows to a stop as voices flood the hallway.

Rounding the corner as Evan approaches it is the FGA 15 Champion, Sadie San Francisco, with Nando Fresno: Alien Hunter and Jillian Clay just a couple of steps behind, already in the midst of their own conversation.

Nando Fresno: ...but that’s why I hate matches like that. What do you have to do, practice growing eyes in the back of your hea--?

The self-proclaimed alien hunter stops mid-sentence as Sadie stops in front of him. Evan’s eyes drift over the trio, but focus on Sadie. For several seconds, the two stare at each other, neither offering a single word. Sadie grips the FGA 15 Championship in one hand, clutching her own duffel bag to her side with the other. Evan’s mouth opens, just slightly. It’s evident that he wants to speak, but ultimately nothing comes out.

Sadie gives the Chief almost an apologetic look before maneuvering the 15 Title belt onto her shoulder. Without a word, she moves past him and continues her trek down the corridor. Jillian continues behind Sadie without missing a beat. Nando sniffs, giving Evan a quick nod before continuing on. Evan sighs and moves on in the other direction-- but his face falls as another, quicker pair of footsteps approaches.

??: Bad time?

Evan doesn’t respond. Within a couple of seconds we can see that the voice belongs to Spencer Burke, who pivots on his heel and strides after Evan, microphone in-hand.

Spencer Burke: Evan, I know right now isn’t ideal. No champion wants to conduct a post-match interview after a loss on that level-- on that caliber-- but I think you’re gonna regret it if you don’t say what’s on your mind now.

Evan stops, turning on his heel to glare at the interviewer.

Evan Envi: Go away, Spencer.

The words come out softly, almost tiredly. But Spencer’s eyes drift past Evan, toward something-- or somebody-- that stands behind him. Evan makes no move to follow Spencer’s gaze. His shoulders slump, and a knowing expression crosses his face. The camera moves to the left of Evan to see who Spencer’s eyes have landed on.

Fujiko Mine, the FGA World champion stands several feet away, her gaze just now falling upon Spencer and Evan. fastened around her waist is her US Tag Team championship, and the title that was just mere a mere hour ago in Evans’ grasp now rests on her left shoulder. She for a moment, freezes mid-stride; a proverbial deer in the headlights. Spencer realizes the awkward situation that he has found himself in. He looks at Evan for a second, and with only a cringe, backs out of the frame. His footsteps echo in the hall at he retreats, leaving nothing between current and former champion.

The Apex Goddess averts her eyes for a second, nothing that Evan has not moved from where he was. A confused expression passes her visage, before it is replaced by one of determination. She then locks her gaze onto the Chief again, and after a forceful exhale, takes a few steps in towards him.

Fujiko Mine: H-hey.

Evan glares in the direction Spencer had departed in, as if the interviewer was somehow responsible for what was transpiring. The Chief takes a small breath and turns, locking eyes with Fujiko. Immediately, his gaze lowers toward the World Championship on her shoulder. His expression is indistinguishable, but the color in his face seems to shift to beet-red.

Evan Envi: …

His eyes rise up toward Fujiko’s, narrowing. His jaw tightens. His fists clench defensively and the handle of the suitcase threatens to slip free of his grasp.

Evan Envi: What? What? Are you…

His nostrils flare a bit and he clears his throat, gesturing toward Fujiko.

Evan Envi: You expecting a congratulations or…?

He trails off, unable or unwilling to finish a complete thought. She shakes her head, the desire to move towards him not enough to will her motor skills to cooperate. She looks stunned as he asks.

Fujiko Mine: N-no. I wasn’t expecting that. I just.

She almost lurches forward, the attempt in movement obvious. She adjusts her stance to keep from falling over. She looks away for a moment, and then sets her eyes back on the Chief.

Fujiko Mine: I just uh…

She mutters to herself, too low for the camera to hear.

Fujiko Mine: Wanted to say thank you.

She subconsciously adjusts the falling championship on her shoulder, as a measure of regaining composure. Evan’s eyes shoot toward the championship again, compulsively, but they drift back to Fujiko’s as the World Champion continues talking.

Fujiko Mine: Thanks for making this fair. Leaving Natalie and Ricky behind. And uh…

She swallows, trying to find the words.

Fujiko Mine: I wanted to say I’m sorry.

She blinks a few times, keeping the tears away. Her stance adjusts again, her back heel off the ground as she says so. Evan’s eyes narrow again, though this time in an attempt to analyze everything that he just heard. Evan looks away for a moment, shooting a glance toward the exit as he uses a free hand to touch at the reddened, bruising area under his eye. With his other hand, he tightens his grip on the handle of the suitcase, contemplating bolting right past the champion, but he shakes his head a bit and turns to her once more, responding quietly.

Evan Envi: Sorry for what?

She winces as he asks, the situation becoming just as uncomfortable as she feared it would. She presses her back heel into the ground, shifting backwards, There is a moment that passes that suggests she too might try to exit the scene, but she does not. Her voice shakes as she gives the answer.

Fujiko Mine: The Fron… kissing you. It...it wasn’t right forcing myself upon you. You were right, and I’m sorry. It’s mostly what you’ve talked about since, and it’s been bothering me that I took things too far. So...there it is.

The movement of Fujiko’s right arm calls attention to the fact that she’s kept it mostly hidden this entire time. She brings it into view, and the flash of red stabilizes into a pair of red roses as she reveals them.

Fujiko Mine: I knew that veritable field of roses you left at my hotel that day were from you. I just...did. I guess I was thinking about that then. Don’t know why. Just was.

She exhales slowly, the fatigue overcoming the adrenaline from earlier in the night.

Fujiko Mine: Not thinking about you attacking me, or turning Natalie on me. That’s. Well, it is what it is now. And this is not what you want to hear, but I didn’t feel right not coming to say thank you, either. We’ve had our issues, but thank you for tonight.

She looks down at the roses, then at Evan. She raises her right arm in his direction. Evan keeps his gaze on Fujiko for a moment, uncertainty etched over every bit of his face. Hesitantly, as if guarded, Evan looks down to the flowers extended toward him. He closes his eyes for a moment. Inhale.

Evan Envi: ...I’m…

Exhale. Seconds pass, but unable to help himself, he reaches out, his fingertips brushing over Fujiko’s for a moment before he accepts the roses, holding them awkwardly as if he has no idea what to do with them.

Evan Envi: I don’t, uh… I don’t have anything t…

He looks up from the roses, back to Fujiko. Then back to the roses. The easier choice.

Evan Envi: I don’t… really… know what to say to you right now.

She nods, the look on her face a mixture of shock and hope.

Fujiko Mine: That’s...fair.

Her previous impulse of backing away seems to finally kick in, and she does move her form backwards and to the left. Her mouth makes a move to communicate to him one last thing, but it doesn’t happen. She makes a slow revolution away from the Chief, her gaze the last thing to turn away from him before she turns a corner and is gone.

Envi stands there completely still, completely silent.

And finally after a few seconds, he somehow manages to remember how to use his legs. Envi makes his way down the corridor, toward the double doors leading to the exit. Adjacent to the doors is a silver, cylindrical trash can. The former World Champion’s eyes find it, and for a few moments, they stay there. The hand that grips the pair of roses hovers above the opening for a moment, threatening to let the flowers drop inside-- but the feed cuts before we’re gifted an answer.

[Lou]

In the backstage area, Ricky Valero sits atop an empty crate in an isolated corner of the building with his head in his hands and a towel strewn across his shoulders. You can hear the hometown crown from inside the arena still celebrating Fujiko Mine’s World Championship victory. Their cheers rock the Fiserv Forum’s foundation and echo off the walls. For Valero, it’s a haunting sound that pours salt into the wound from an already disappointing evening for the so-called ‘Good Guy’, whose own failures are only amplified by the Milwaukee native’s triumphant performance.

It’s hard to tell how long Ricky has been sitting in this position. He’s still sporting his sweat-soaked ring attire and all indications are that he’s lost, somewhere deep in his own thoughts with no interest in coming out of his stupor. Unfortunately for him, he has a visitor.

?: Ricky...Ricky...can I get a word please?

But Valero just sighs as the voice is irritatingly familiar.

Ricky Valero: Not now, Spence.

FGA interviewer Spencer Burke steps into the picture displaying a professional smile and an unusually confident swagger, perhaps--maybe just a little bit--in response to the disappointing evening had by both members of the Good Guys tonight.

Spencer Burke: Come on, Ricky. Just give me something to work with here.

Ricky’s face rises up from his hands and his eyes stare daggers at Vertigo’s top reporter.

Ricky Valero: What do you want me to say? What could you possibly think I have to share right now that would be worth publishing or putting up on social media? Do you really think I’m in some kind of upbeat mood to talk to you about tonight’s festivities? Maybe I’ll congratulate Marlon Cure on his Gold Rush Rumble win, or I’ll talk about Fujiko Mine’s hard-fought victory and how, despite my brother Evan Envi’s loss, I believe Fujiko is going to be an outstanding champion for Vertigo and that she’s going to put this show on her back and carry it the way the Good Guys have for the last year? Because you and I both know that if I did any of that, I’d be lying through my teeth. I’d be blowing smoke up your ass. And Spence, quite frankly, I’m not in the mood to blow smoke up anyone’s ass. I’m not in the mood to play nice. I’m damn sure not in the mood to talk to you.

He scoffs, shaking his head as his eyes travel down to the floor again before returning to Spencer.

Ricky Valero: Yet here we are. So what can I say? I was wrong. I was wrong when I said I’d win the Gold Rush Rumble. I was wrong when I guaranteed that the Good Guys reigning supreme tonight was the only way this night could end. I was wrong when I assured our fans that we would have the type of celebration our new World Champion is having right now, because I believed we would. I believed we’d earned it. I believed we deserve it. But some things don’t go as planned do they, Spence?

Spencer Burke: No, it appears they do not.

Ricky holds his hand up to Spencer’s face now, leaving little space between his thumb and index fingers.

Ricky Valero: I was this close. The final four. Minutes away from making my dreams come true before Dom Harter pulled the carpet out from under me and threw me over the top ropes.

He shrugs.

Ricky Valero: I failed. Marlon won. Evan failed. Fujiko won. They’ll be partying in Milwaukee tonight. But the Good Guys...the Good Guys are going to go back to the drawing board, put a new gameplan together, and get to work on taking back our place at the top of this company. Tonight is just a minor bump in the road.

Ricky gets up to his feet, grimacing slightly as he favors his lower back.

Ricky Valero: But make no mistake about it, we’ll be back on top before you know it.

Disinterested in speaking with the FGA interviewer any longer, Ricky dips his shoulder into Spencer’s body and shoves past him. Our scene fades.

[Fujiko Mine]

Tj Jones and Arkia Fisk-Jones already had their embrace with Fujiko shortly after the historical win. The cameras making sure to catch the moment between the three while Mine’s eyes brimmed with the eventual tears to fall. It didn’t take long from that moment for both Jones’ to reach the backstage area more specifically to the locker room where the double champion gathers her things. A few knocks later and both Tj and Arkia enter the locker room where Fujiko is already dressed and ready, well, as ready as she can be after such a battle to celebrate the night. Tj always the gentleman opens the door first and allows Arkia to walk in her boisterous demeanor finally showing after being so professional and polite in front of the cameras beforehand.

Arkia Fisk-Jones: Ok biiiiittttccchh I seeeeee yooooouuuuu!! Blingin like some freshly fallen snow. Out here brighter than Christmas lights. Looking brighter than the reds and blues on a cop car, girl make them prrreessssed!! I love it. You better brag. You better brag sooo hard. Rub their faces in it worse than a dog post carpet piss. After they sat here and tried to tell you what you wouldn’t become? Bitch go nuclear. Do you hear me? I know we didn’t get along in the beginning and that petty side of me still don’t like you but I’m proud of you hard right now.

Fujiko places her hand on her reddened cheek as she is the recipient of praise from her former rival. Meanwhile, Tj Jones leans against the doorframe, smiling.

Tj Jones: Feel like you’re out of my shadow now?

Fujiko glances over at the two-time former PDW Platinum champion, rolling her eyes playfully.

Tj Jones: Truth being told, you haven’t been in it for ages. You got out of it years ago. And we’ve been incredibly proud of you the whole way. Tonight, just cements what we’ve always known.

Fujiko does what she’s been doing for the past twenty minutes: try her best to fight back tears.

Fujiko Mine: I don’t know if I’m going to rub it in their faces...tonight.

She can’t help but smile through the tears a bit.

Fujiko Mine: I...thanks, Arkia. For pushing me to get this far. And to get here.

She moves the FGA World championship off her shoulder, turning it so she can look directly into the faceplate.

Tj Jones: It’s a feeling you never really forget. Something just sets it apart from all the others. Something in you just… changes when you get it. Arkia nods at her husband before looking back toward Fujiko.

Arkia Fisk-Jones: And remember always...what it took for you to get there. I see so many of these baby colts swearing to God and back they know what it takes and how it goes. They haven’t even put on the damn floaties to get into the pool yet, let alone the deep end. Never forget that, ever.

Arkia points toward her temple.

Arkia Fisk-Jones: Cause as soon as you do you will catch the worst L. Believe me, that hurts. It hurts deeply. I tell you to rub it in because the haters won’t say a thing. That silence, that shut the fuck up you place in their throats to the point it hurts for them to breathe? Enjoy that. Take a whole bath in it. Seriously with the bath bombs and all. Light candles. Grab a good book. Hell, bring a toy. Bust one to it. That’s how good it is.

Fujiko’s eyes shoot open and she instinctively takes a step back from Ms. Busine$$. From outside the locker room, the loud laughter of XENA can be heard.

Fujiko Mine: Arkia, really?!

The redness of her cheeks deepens, it not coming from the bruising she sustained between her two matches.

Fujiko Mine: I’m...just going to pretend I didn’t hear the last part of that, and I’ll take the sage advice from the two hall of famers instead.

She brings her gaze back to the centerplate of the FGA championship.

Tj Jones: She’s right though. Take the time to enjoy it. Relax for a bit. The hardest part is still to come, but this is what you worked so hard for. It wouldn’t mean nearly as much if you didn’t take out the time to revel in your accomplishments. And while you will have haters, people who are already out there trying to discredit you. But by winning that, you have proven to the world what you already know.

Arkia Fisk-Jones: Plus although you red in the face he remembers the nights when he won his so he know I’m right about the bust one. He had fun.

Arkia laughs loudly and points at Tj playfully before making a ‘nyeh’ face at him.

Arkia Fisk-Jones: You will have to steel yourself even further and I’m more than confident you will. All jokes aside because even though I’m good for them tihs moment...it’s yours. It’s real and I’m like damn, bout time.

Arkia moves toward Fujiko and even extends her arms to give her a hug. Fujiko takes her in after moving the championships out of the way.

Arkia Fisk-Jones: Good job lil mama. Good job.

Fujiko Mine: Again, thank you both.

Tj notices the look she looks she gives her newly won title, and smiles proudly.

Tj Jones: We’ll let you go. Knowing Dina, she’s planning for this to only be the beginning of your night.

Tj places a hand in the center of Arkia’s back, and gently leads her from the room. But before he can fully exit, she places up a hand.

Fujiko Mine: Thanks...for everything.

Tj looks into her eyes, and nods before reaching in and shutting her door, leaving her alone as the scene fades.

[The Mason]

With Only the Strong Survive officially over, the Fiserv Forum is almost emptied out as jubilant fans are making their way home after an exciting night that was filled with new champions being crowned, which was now going to transition to a night of celebrations.

But backstage, we come across one of the former champions who have nothing to celebrate.
Logan Alexander is making his way towards the backstage exit for FGA talent. With a duffle bag over his shoulder, he looks lost in thought as he makes his way along, but he does not appear to carry himself as one who’s suffered a heartbreaking defeat would. Instead, he seems rather cool and composed, as though nothing has changed in the last few hours.

Ahead of him, Amanda Johnson can be seen, apparently waiting where there she feels she has the best chance to catch departing wrestlers and ask them her questions. Logan is no exception to this.

Amanda Johnson: Hello Logan. May I have a few minutes of your time before you leave?

He comes to a stop next to Amanda, mulling over his options for a few moments.

Logan Alexander: I suppose so. I guess there are questions to be asked after a night like tonight after all.

She smiles to him in response.

Amanda Johnson: First, I’d just like to say congratulations. Although your title reign came to an end tonight, it was still quite an incredible run for you and Ashlyn. I believe the official tally is three hundred and eighty five days from Only the Strong Survive last year where the two of you defeated Smart Style to being your second reign to today. I believe that is the longest championship reign in FGA history across all championships. I’d say that makes it quite the accomplishment.

There’s a flicker of disappointment across his face. There for a moment and then gone again.

Logan Alexander: I suppose it is.

He reaches up with his left hand and rubs the back of his head.

Logan Alexander: I’d be lying if I said that I expected us to achieve something like that back in April last year when we won the titles back. I’d been coming off a bad run at the start of that year and losses to Smart Style had shaken my confidence. Then they were breathing down our necks for months after our second reign began. Then we had the battle of the brands begin. I had a scare in ring after Smart Style spiked me with that Doomsday cutter of theirs. After that, everyone was lining up to get their shots in on us and take our place. Ashlyn and I found a way to persevere through it.

He glances down towards the floor.

Logan Alexander: We almost fell apart after All Star Showdown because of my actions. Then we had to fend off the Dogs of War, PC Lion Attack Squad and Triple A in short order while having to handle Hadley’s biased decision making.

Amanda gets a bit of a sour expression on her face in reaction to that description. Logan either doesn’t notice or react to it.

Logan Alexander: We survived the crunch at Final Frontier, when I gave all I had in the Frontier Lion’s Cup and then everything I had left the next night to hang onto the Tag Team titles. We held off the first attempt of FGA’s darlings to take our titles in February. I think it’s unfortunate that we came up short tonight, but the truth of the matter is that no one remains champion forever. The moment you win a championship match, it’s guaranteed that you’re going to lose it somewhere down the line. You just don’t want to have any regrets about it when that moment comes.

Amanda Johnson: Do you have any regrets?

Logan Alexander: Personally? No. I do wish that Ashlyn and I had been seeing eye-to-eye on things over the last few months. It made things a lot harder than they needed to be. I’m sure that everyone could see that we weren’t at our very best out there tonight. We were butting heads. We didn’t work as a team for most of the match. We even had a few miscues that cost us. I know that comes off like excuses, I’m just offering my view on what happened though. Pendragon deserves some credit though. They showed that when you’re given enough free opportunities, that it’s possible to get one over on a better team.

Amanda gives him a look of mild disbelief.

Amanda Johnson: Really? I think that Lowri and Neal showed out there tonight that they are worthy and deserving champions.

Logan Alexander: You’re entitled to believe that, as is everyone else in the arena tonight. I don’t.

He lets out a breath.

Logan Alexander: I’m sure that as soon as Lowri and Neal got back to their dressing room tonight, they snatched up their phones and promptly began tweeting about how they proved that they are the best tag team in FGA by beating Ashlyn and I. It’s the same arrogant nonsense they’ve been spewing for the last four months… and I’m still waiting for them to actually prove any of it.

Amanda Johnson: You don’t think that their win tonight is any proof of that?

Logan shakes his head slowly.

Logan Alexander: No. On any night, the underdog can beat a favourite. Need I remind you that I beat one of FGA’s marquee competitors back in December at Winter Frontier? Did me beating Johnny Karma immediately make me one of the best wrestlers in FGA, let alone the best? No, of course not. It was just one match after all. I made a more serious claim to that kind of standing after the following three matches at Final Frontier. Even then, I’m not in any conversation about good wrestlers here in FGA.

He offers a knowing look to Amanda, then continues.

Logan Alexander: Pendragon haven’t done anything like that in the tag division. This is their first win against Ashlyn and I in five attempts. I hardly think that a twenty percent success rate qualifies you to be the best. I’m pretty sure that this was their first win as a team in FGA since the new year began as well. They have a long way to go before they get to claim they are the best team in FGA. They may have finally gotten to plant their flag at the top of Mount Everest here tonight, but that doesn’t impress someone that has built a monument on the moon by comparison.

He smiles slightly as he continues.

Logan Alexander: We were the most dominant pairing in this company for almost two years. We debuted in Dynamic Duos and our first five matches together were us winning that whole tournament. We were part of the Team Flashpoint at All Star Showdown that beat Team Vertigo while short one person. We then beat every other tag team that made up Team Flashpoint, proving that we were the best part of the victorious brand. We’re the only team to record five title defenses in one reign and we shattered the longevity record. Just because Pendragon have the titles now and we don’t, doesn’t change any of that. That’s like saying Mister Edwards was a great champion just because he had the US title for the last two months. Do you want to make that argument?

Logan looks at Amanda and she just shakes her head in response. Considering the interactions she’d had with James during that period, it’s a bit of a surprise that she does say anything about him in reply. Logan just offers a knowing smile in response.

Logan Alexander: Yeah. He at least had three title defenses in his short reign. As for Pendragon, carrying a championship for six months with only one title defense under your belt doesn’t even compare to our resume, and that’s all that they’ve done in FGA. It suggests that the two of them were coddled during their reign. You can make the argument that they faced a serious challenge from members of the New Murder for one night, but what about the other hundred and seventy nine? Again, one good night doesn’t make them standouts. One good night here in Milwaukee doesn’t make them the best.

He fires a pointed look at Amanda.

Logan Alexander: Come talk to me in three hundred days if they’ve still got the belts. If they’ve defended those titles successfully three times by then, they might be able to make a case. Until then, they’re just a couple of pretenders living in the shadow of the Chaotics, along with every other team in FGA.

Amanda Johnson: Well… does that mean that you and Ashlyn will challenge Pendragon to reclaim the World Tag Team Championships?

There’s a long pause as Logan seems to consider the question.

Logan Alexander: I don’t know.

Amanda looks confused by his response.

Amanda Johnson: What do you mean?

He frowns slightly back at her.

Logan Alexander: Exactly what I said Amanda. I don’t know if we’ll challenge for the tag titles again. The last several months have been a strain between Ashlyn and myself. I don’t really feel like we’re getting along backstage or in the ring. Pendragon really seems to have pushed us apart. Ever since that match with Lowri, it feels like things have been out of control. Ashlyn took her approach one way, while I had suggested that she do it differently. Tonight, it came to a head.

He sighs softly.

Logan Alexander: With us at odds like that right now… I just don’t see us challenging for the titles. I’m not sure if we’d be successful if we did either.

He shakes his head for a few moments, the looks back to Amanda.

Logan Alexander: Another part of me is tired of this routine as well. We’ve been going for two years as a tag team. We’ve done more than anyone else has. We’ve beaten all comers. I don’t really feel like we need to do any more in that regard. Sure we could try to be three time champions… but what for? We’ve set the bar for everyone to try and match already, so maybe it’s time we do something else. At least for a while anyway.

Amanda Johnson: What would that something else be?

He shrugs in response.

Logan Alexander: Beats me. Management seems to routinely forget that both of us are capable singles wrestlers. I’ve proven that I have skill here in FGA matches. Ashlyn’s gone toe to toe with top champions here and has been a champion elsewhere within the last few years. Maybe with us not being an utterly dominant tag team will lead to us getting some opportunities here that we’ve been passed over for before. Or maybe FGA management will continue to ignore us and we’ll see about going elsewhere.

That seems to catch Amanda off guard. She needs a few seconds to let that sink in before replying.

Amanda Johnson: You’d consider leaving FGA just like that?

Logan Alexander: I’m not interested in being part of a company where I put in hard work, perform well, have success and then watch as others get rewarded for doing less. So yeah, I’d certainly consider that going forward.

Amanda Johnson: What about Ashlyn though? Would you really break ties with her like that? Just split the Chaotics and go your separate ways?

Logan Alexander: No. That’s not really what I want… but it is an option. Right now though, I think we need some space and time and a chance to find common ground and motivations. See where we stand and then figure out how to proceed…

The former Tag Team Champion’s eyes drift past toward Amanda, and within seconds, the camera does as well, finally settling on the approaching figure of Ashlyn De Luca. She’s dressed in street clothes now, arms folded, a look lingering somewhere between distress and exhaustion on her face as she approaches the scene.

Ashlyn De Luca: ...you m…

The words seem to be caught in De Luca’s throat for a moment, but she takes a deep breath, biting her lip before looking up at Logan, speaking softly.

Ashlyn De Luca: You mean that?

Her lips part for a moment, ready to say more, but the words never formulate and she draws in a sharp breath instead, gaze locked on Logan. Logan glances down towards the floor for a few moments. He then looks back up towards Ashlyn.

Logan Alexander: It is something I’ve been thinking about. Not just tonight either. We’ve been like oil and water recently. It’s not helping either of us.

Ashlyn looks at Logan for a moment. Silent seconds tick by until Ashlyn nods a bit, taking a single step back.

Ashlyn De Luca: Yeah, I… I know. I’m sorry.

She rubs her eyes with the heels of her palms, inhaling again.

Ashlyn De Luca: I’m sorry, Logan.

The former champion lowers her hands to her sides. Her gaze remains downcast and her voice grows lower as she goes on.

Ashlyn De Luca: I was obsessed. I got so… so worked up about the wrong things out there, and I knew it, okay-- I knew I was getting obsessed with all these-- these numbers, and all this material shit, but like, I was just…

She gestures between herself and Logan, unable to find the words-- unable to articulate, until another heavy sigh escapes her mouth.

Ashlyn De Luca: I just like being there with you. I like being out there and fighting for something with you. And, I mean, I’m sorry if that hurt you. I’m sorry if it held us back. Held you back.

She finally looks back up at Logan, shrugging her shoulders.

Ashlyn De Luca: I just want one more chance before you completely walk away. I know I screwed up. I’m sorry.

Logan looks back at Ashlyn. The silences stretches out between them again. Then he walks over towards Ashlyn, until they are standing face to face with one another. Wordlessly, he reaches out and pulls her into a hug. Ashlyn visibly looks taken aback for a moment, before relieved, pulling Logan back into a tight embrace, burying her face into her partner’s shoulder for a moment before finally pulling back with a soft exhale.

Our camera slowly pans out, revealing the stoic figure of Amanda Johnson. Ashlyn blinks a few times before narrowing her eyes at the interviewer.

Ashlyn De Luca: Okay, don’t make it weird.

Amanda Johnson: Wha-- I w--

Ashlyn shakes her head slightly at Amanda, who scoffs and turns, walking away without another word. Ashlyn’s gaze drifts from the departing Amanda, back to her partner, giving Logan a small nod.

Ashlyn De Luca: Thank you.

Taking a single step back, Ashlyn closes her fingers into a fist.

Ashlyn De Luca: I’ll get it right this time.

And with that, she extends her fist out to her partner.

Logan Alexander: We will get it right.

He then fistbumps Ashlyn and nods to her as we pan inward. Finally, the camera focuses on the Chaotics’ fists, still in contact, before the scene fades to black.

[Deleted]

Interview Highlights: Tenacious Wrecking Crew talk about Only The Strong Survive, their adventures in Japan, winning titles, and more.




The Tenacious Wrecking Crew spoke with Interactive Wrestling Radio about their appearances on the recent FGA pay-per-view ‘Only The Strong Survive’, Annie’s recent debuts in Millennium and Underground, their ongoing rivalries with the Osaka Rebels and Idolution, and more! The following transcript highlights were supplied to PWTorch.com by the show’s producer...

Show: Interactive Wrestling Radio
Guests: The Tenacious Wrecking Crew
Date: 06/11/19
Your Host: James Walsh
Listen HERE

● On ‘Only The Strong Survive’: “Don’t get me wrong, it was probably one of the biggest and best shows FGA has put on so far this year. But I’m still left disappointed. Getting that close – finishing as a runner up – and just missing out on my title shot is always going to be painful. I had the momentum going, racking up the eliminations left and right. Then, in an instant, it was over. And losing to Marlon Cure just makes it worse! (laughs)”

“Outside of the Rumble though, like congrats to people like Savannah, Seth, Piper, and Pendragon. They worked hard for those wins and they deserve them. Maybe Marlon even deserves that shot – just don’t tell him I said that. But, like, this just means we’ve gotta try harder in the next few weeks; I don’t enjoy walking outta a show like that without a win and, lets face it, that was a kinda weak Rumble performance from me. We’re gonna bounce back though. I’m gonna bounce back. Can’t let Marlon get too far ahead of me.”

“We’ve still got half a year left to get our title shots. Dynamic Duos and the Frontier Lions Cup if we want them – even the Rey Del Aire for one of us. But we all know who’s finishing the year as the Best High Flyer.”

● On what’s next for them in FGA: “We’re gonna pick ourselves up and work our way back up the ladder. Like, I’ve already missed out on the Mid-Atlantic Legacy title and now a shot at the FGA World title too. I know it’s gonna be a challenge, but we’re ready for whatever comes our way from here.”

“Yeah, pretty much that. The goals are still the same; I want to become the FGA World Champion again, and I want to win the Best High Flyer award. The Gold Rush Rumble didn’t go the way I would’ve liked, but it’s not the only way to earn a title shot around here.”

“And if the tag division comes calling again, then we’re here for it. Could always do with another set of tag team titles."

● On their recent tour of promotions: “Some people might be happy wrestling every other week, but not us. And there’s a plethora of open challenges out there, so we thought ‘why not?’. I hadn’t wrestled in Japan since my short stint in Kamikaze Pro, so when the chance came up to wrestle against Ethan Giles in After Dark, I took it. A shot at Sweet as Honey in Rebellion Pro in the UK, sure. Idolution in Seattle Pro, yes please. Even doing shows for Omega down in Orlando – they’re only putting on shows once a month, but it’s something different.”

“Exactly. We’ve had the chance to tour the world and wrestle against opponents we wouldn’t usually have the chance to wrestle against. Last two months I’ve had the chance to compete in the UK, Mexico, Japan, and the United States. And things like the Rail Rumble in Japan – that was eye opening. And, yeah, we didn’t win a shot at the DTW World title, but it was an experience like nothing else.”

“Easy to say when Masatake Kawamata didn’t take a screwdriver to your forehead! But we’ll return to Japan in due time to finish that, just not for a few weeks. We’ve got other responsibilities at the moment that take priority, then the Osaka Rebels will have a problem on their hands.”

● On what happened in Seattle Pro: “Look, AJ Morales wants to talk about Annie betraying him, and that’s just short sighted of him. What we gave them the second time around that we didn’t give them in the first match was our absolute best. No holding back, no letting friendships get in the way of what we went there to do.”

“It’s just a shame he took it so personally, to be honest. Maybe in time he’ll get over it, but I’m not gonna beg him for forgiveness. They were undefeated, they issued an open challenge, they knew the risks they were taking. Now we’re the Seattle Pro Tag Team Champions, and they’re dangling those contracts in front of us.”

“Now Robb Daniels wants us to put pen to paper, and who can blame him? We have their titles. But they’re under consideration. That’s all we’re going to say for now.”

● On Annie’s recent debuts in Millennium and Underground: “Honestly, it goes back to what I said earlier. Rose City, Sakura Pro, and PW: Infinity have all shut down this year, and I wanna wrestle. I’ve got some friends in Underground and, no offense to Dommy, but my other tag partner [The Crimson Baroness] is there too. So there’s a ton of opportunities if I ever lose this Bloodlust title again.”

“And with the Purge going on it was a perfect time for Annie to debut and make an impact. Even if it did make her a new enemy.”

“New enemy? Nah, she never liked me, remember. Brytain Rollins wants to kick my teeth down my throat. Aries wants to turn my ass into a hat. It’s all in the life of a Bloodlust champion! But I’m enjoying my time there so far. I managed, what, a fifty plus day reign as Bloodlust champion before the show last week. Now I’m on my second reign with a big title defense coming up in a few days at ‘From The Pinnacle To The Pit’. As for Millennium; look, a champion vacated the title and they had a gauntlet match. I saw an opportunity, put my name forward, and I walked out as the Chicago Way Champion. Now I’ve got Lucie Callaway wanting revenge for her getting ‘screwed’. We’ve got a tag match there tomorrow too.”

“Can’t wait for that warm reception. But we’re getting that momentum back. Slowly but surely, but we’re getting there. And what we lost in FGA at ‘Only The Strong Survive’ isn’t the end for us. We’ve managed to become tag champs in Seattle Pro since then, Annie’s got the Bloodlust and Chicago Way titles too. We’ll return to Japan when the time is right, and the next time we step into an FGA ring we’ll come out swinging. If we’re going to become champions there again before the end of the year then we’ve managed to get ourselves in the right frame of mind to do so.”

● On any other projects they’re working on: “We’ve each got a part in an upcoming TV series, but I don’t want to give away too many details. Spoiler free zone here!”

[STORM]

"Tonight didn't go as planned but that doesn't matter anymore. You win some, you lose some, the show goes on and you live to fight another day." panting heavily, Your Hero and Mine doesn't seem to be upset or distraught about not winning the Rumble.

There's an optimistic look on his face as he looks at the camera, wiping the sweat that slivers down his forehead with his taped up forearms. Despite not managing to get the win, there's a sense of hope that lingers from his expression and general aura, a surprising reaction from a competitor viewers had gotten used to overreacting.

"Where do I go from here? There's only one place I go and that's right to the top, climbing through the rankings and going through the food-chain, and taking what's mine. Before I'd encountered my injury last year I was on my way to the top of this company, carrying the Flashpoint brand on my back and doing so on a day to day basis.

Nothing changes.

There's a lot of people who have stuck around and climbed their way up the ladder since then, and there's a lot of new faces who I haven't had the pleasure of introducing myself to. But there's no need for any introductions because they know who I am. Because they know what I can do. And there's no one who can do what I do in that ring. I don't just grapple. I don't just wrestle. I create art, five star fuckin' matches, every damn time I step foot inside that ring.

"I do because I can, you don't because you suck."

An arrogant smirk aligns on the lips of Storm, that trademark smirk that viewers had become so familiar with over the years. 

"From YOUR Hero, and MINE."

The scene fades to black.