Iser & Stevenson: The Interview.
Apr 23, 2021 22:40:22 GMT -5
Post by Cordy on Apr 23, 2021 22:40:22 GMT -5
An FGA logo flashes across our screen. Underneath it, the words ‘A Special Presentation’ fades into focus.The image then fades away to our scene. Jessie Pederson is seen sitting at the center of a large table. To the left is the World Champion, Seth Iser. You see the championship in front of him on the table as he’s dressed professionally in a three piece suit with a black and blue pattern complimented by a WVU pin and a pair of leather shoes that go with the suit. He also has a noticeable scowl etched on his face and he’s even tapping his foot in annoyance. Seated on the right side of Jessie and facing Seth is the International Heavyweight Champion, Cordelia Stevenson. Her title belt rests on the table before her and she is also dressed professionally in a royal blue Black Halo two piece pantsuit. Cordelia’s demeanor is quite the opposite of Seth’s however. She leans back in her chair, an arm draped over the back of it as she spins back and forth in it, looking quite comfortable.
Jessie Pederson: Good evening ladies and gentlemen, and thank you for joining us for this Road to ‘A New Odyssey’ special presentation here on Frontier+. I am Jessie Pederson, and tonight I am joined by the FGA World Champion Seth Iser.
Jessie turns and nods towards Seth.
Jessie Pederson: And the International Heavyweight Champion, Cordelia Stevenson.
She turns and nods towards Cordy.
Jessie Pederson: This will be the final time we will see both competitors before their historic unification bout at A New Odyssey on April 27th, at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Jessie smiles towards the camera and looks back and forth between Seth and Cordy.
Jessie Pederson: With the big day quickly approaching, how are you feeling?
Seth just scowls toward Jessie for a moment after being asked that question.
Seth Iser: Take a guess how we’ll both answer that.
He says with a little bit of bite in his tone and the sneer intact. Jessie’s smile vanishes at Seth’s reply.
Seth Iser: If you’re genuinely curious...I’m fine. I feel pretty damn healthy for being in the industry nineteen years. Not exactly the happiest person when I was told on short notice to be here because I was hoping to have another day at home with my family but...work is work so here I am.
Cordy chuckles at Seth’s response.
Cordelia Stevenson: My boy Seth, always the family man. You gotta love it. How can you not respect that? I’m feeling incredible though Jessie, and that is despite the company’s plot to try and have me distracted and less than 100% heading into this match.
Jessie’s eyebrows raise. Cordelia simply holds up a finger.
Cordelia Stevenson: Don’t worry, we’ll definitely touch on that later chica. But just know your girl is here and she’s ready to go, much to the world’s dismay.
Jessie keeps the eyebrow raised for a moment before for the moment respecting the wishes.
Jessie Pederson: But one of the biggest matches in the history of the company is almost here. There will be an Undisputed Champion, and Cordy, you’ve been in this situation before. I’ll start with an easy question, what would unifying the titles a second time mean to you?
It seems like the agitation is gone as Seth is eyeballing his counterpart directly with full attention being paid for what could be said. For a brief moment Cordelia stops spinning in her chair.
Cordelia Stevenson: Everything.
There is no hesitation in her response. The lightness in her tone seems to evaporate in an instant. Her eyes lock in on Jessie’s.
Cordelia Stevenson: You know, when I came into this business, I had the luxury of learning from and being around some of the best minds this business has ever seen. I was able to sit back and pick their minds and learn from their experiences and the things they went through; the things they had to see, the things they had to overcome, and I was a sponge to it all. I got where I am in this business, because more than anything, I was willing to learn. I was willing to listen. And I always think back to a conversation I had with Star Windsor, who was Star Devereaux at the time -- for those of you that don’t know her, she was the owner of Platinum Dynasty Wrestling, the very company where I got my start, and a multi time world champion and hall of famer in her own right -- I remember her telling me how hard it was for her as a black woman in the wrestling business, and how hard it was to overcome all of the obstacles, because no matter how hard you tried, there would always be a glass ceiling that they would try and place above you.
Cordelia sits up now, folding her hands together and leaning forward to rest them on the table.
Cordelia Stevenson: I always remember that conversation but for years it was something that I truly disregarded. Sometimes success or what you perceive to be success can jade your vision. Sometimes it can blind you, and it wasn’t until recently that the blinders were taken off. It wasn’t until I hit my head on the glass ceiling they set above me...
She pauses, biting her lip as she ponders over her words. Seth hasn’t broken his stare from Cordy, as if he’s digesting what’s being said.
Cordelia Stevenson: Working so damn hard to please people that genuinely don’t give a damn about me. They’ll cheer me on as long as I do what they want, but the fact of the matter is they’ve never really given me my just do. Let me ask you this Jessie, why is it that I can be so damn good for so damn long, yet my status is always in question?
Jessie looks as if she is going to speak but Cordelia holds up a finger.
Cordelia Stevenson: I ask myself that and suddenly that conversation with Star becomes so damn clear to me. Why is it that I bust my ass to be the best, yet whenever I’m here, the fans and the company always find any reason to refute that? Why am I always given extra hurdles when the work I’ve put in should be more than enough? To be the longest reigning International Heavyweight Champion, having held that title for more than a year, having defended it against the level of competition that I have, why is my status even in question? Why am I always treated like a second class champion despite defending one of the top prizes in this business with honor and dignity? You said it yourself Jessie, this unification thing isn’t something that is new to me, but why is that? Why is it always me? Why am I always the one asked to prove myself more than anyone else? I’ll tell you why Jessie. It’s that glass ceiling. And that’s exactly why winning this match is so damn important to me. Because when I win, and when I unify the belts -- again -- what will they say then? What extra step will they throw in my path then? What reasons will they find to discredit me next? What criteria will they use to try and justify saying that Cordelia Stevenson isn’t the best? I’m breaking through that glass ceiling, Jessie, because it should have never been there in the first fucking place. That’s what this match means to me.
Cordelia leans back into the chair now and folds her arms across her chest. Meanwhile Seth hasn’t broken his gaze and has kept a poker face just reading exactly what was told to him. The mask finally fades for a moment as a frown creeps onto his face. It’s Jessie who breaks the silence though.
Jessie Pederson: I suppose...I should be fair and ask the same question to Seth. You’ve been everywhere in the world but I don’t think you’ve been in this situation. What would unifying the titles mean to you?
For a brief moment Iser eyeballs the interview but his mannerisms have calmed down.
Seth Iser: ...I’ll answer your question in a minute. But let me answer Cordelia’s...from my own eyes. It might not be the answer she seeks entirely but it’s the answer I have.
He then returns his gaze back to Cordelia with his full attention.
Seth Iser: I’ve said it once before...I’ll say it again. Success isolates. It always has in this industry. We have few, if any friends once you get to a certain point. People just want to know what they can get out of you...especially when you’re on the road with everyone sharpening their knives to come at you one way or another. It can make a good soul turn sour with paranoia with enough exposure and it won’t matter what defences you craft to it.
There’s still this calmness to Iser’s voice as he recounts all of this.
Seth Iser: If you want my opinion Cordy as to the answer of the question at the end of the day...that’s one of the things that causes all of it. We’re always the target...from people who want to make a name...become a champion...maybe even have an axe to grind from a vendetta earlier. But it’s a damn lonely place...where we’re at. Few peers...and people clamoring for someone to be seen on that level because people always want to focus on the new. From social media platform choice to what people want to do with their hair or tattoos...to the damn stars in the industry. People always want to see the next...because that’s what’s most fascinating to’m. It’s their damned escape, really...from what might be going on in their life. Even more so if they relate to what they see...or identify with it. Damned fools those lot...but people have never changed in that regard when you look at history.
There’s a frown on his face as a little bit of the bitterness is creeping into the veteran wrestler.
Seth Iser: It’s a never ending quest to prove yourself on this meat grinder. I’ve always said we’re the gladiators of Rome...often constantly fighting for freedom until the death shot is fired at us. And the moment we try to celebrate our fame...or fortune...our championship...somebody’s shot the damn shot and that’s it. The ride is over.
He leans back on his chair with his eyes closed after he says those words.
Seth Iser: And there are always people looking to line up that damn shot. The bigger the name, the heavier the artillery used. Even here regardless of which of us comes out on top...Lowri, Gareth, Fujiko, Envi if he finds that tenth of a second that he had, Nina, Tyler...Voltage even because he’s hungry enough. Every single one of them wants to be where we’re at right now. So it’s a never ending fight to prove yourself unfortunately because they’re all in their own ways going to fire that damn shot.
And then there’s a wry smile etched on his face.
Seth Iser: But the truth is...regardless of where we’re at...as much as we fought to get this position, we don’t get to enjoy it. Not until we’re done and we can look back at what we had. Because if we take that breath and enjoy it too much again...that shot is fired. That’s how I look at it after spending the last...ten years with everyone pointing their own guns at me in one form or another…in other words, sometimes it’s just a thankless job this is. People talk about the physical price we pay and lord knows we both know it...but that’s the mental price that’s not as talked about. Because...there’s a price for everything. And we all pay eventually…
The wry smile becomes more of a knowing one as if he foresees what might happen in the future for him for a moment before he shakes his head.
Seth Iser: But Jessie you want my answer? What unifying the titles mean to me? Two things. It’s validation from a warrior’s standpoint that I took this woman’s best shot and it wasn’t enough because I can continue writing my Magnum Opus...I would still have control of that pen to write what needs to be written because even if I feel great right now...I also know I’m damn mortal and when the fall off begins...I’ll have no more real opportunities left. That shot I mentioned? I know it’ll be fired eventually. Memento...Mori. It applies to us all. Especially when the average damn career in our sport is three years.
Again that knowing smile is creeping on his face as he says that Latin phrase.
Seth Iser: Maybe it’s Owen down the line. Maybe Izzy cashes her chips in and repays what I’ve done to her...lord knows her schedule is free enough to do that. Perhaps Gareth takes what he learned inside that damned Hell in a Cell and applies it at my expense...or someone could just shoot the shot none of us see coming...gets lucky and that’s it. I’d be done. I might be in the best shape of my life but I’m not a damn fool knowing my roads. So that’s why I’ve scheduled the way I have...and prepared the way I have. To stay permanently aware and sharp…
He then frowns as he lets out a breath.
Seth Iser: The second thing it’d mean? The bigger thing it represents to me... Two words: I’m sorry.
And those two words are what make Jessie’s head turn and blink. Even Cordy’s eyes widen a bit hearing those words come from Seth’s mouth. And the way he said it...he means it fully.
Seth Iser: I had my own bout of a little discrimination in this industry but unlike in your case...mine was self inflicted. Especially when we were at the point when the industry was just starting to clean up on the drug use and guess who was one of the worst drug users in the industry at the time? He’s sitting right here. Even when you’re clean...job opportunities aren’t exactly common when you have THAT hanging over your head for years. Especially if that incident feels so...fresh.
He frowns coldly at this recounting this.
Seth Iser: And when one of the lasting memories promoters and a lot of wrestlers that were MY peers at the time is me being passed out in the shower because I overdosed? I did everybody wrong...in that moment. I disgraced the sport. I disgraced my name...and I disgraced my...family. When I woke up in the hospital at that moment...I damn near lost everything, Cordy…
He swallows as he takes a breath...his voice never lower when he said that.
Seth Iser: I lost my first wife...I lost my job. I lost my health at the time...I was on the verge of losing my own life and self...and I almost lost my daughter…
He again shakes his head recounting all of this...tapping the copper bracelet over his left wrist, the symbol of his sobriety.
Seth Iser: I think about that day a lot...it’s hard not to. And then came the long fight...to get everything back. I had to leave the sport for a little while...fight the addictions that had taken control over me but when I really look back...I was an angry person who was blaming everyone else except my wife and daughter...even then I had a LITTLE bit of sense but...I remember initially being so goddamn angry after I went away and came back...clean that nobody wanted to hire me because things were getting damn lean at home. Couldn’t provide for myself or my kid. Looking back now...I fully understand why they were hesitant. Hell...I wouldn’t have hired me either then…
He lets out a sigh as he continues.
Seth Iser: A job finally did open up. It was in the United Kingdom. They saw what I was...thought they could take a chance and I needed the work so I took it. And I missed a lot of time with my daughter taking the job to provide for my family at the time. I took a little comfort knowing...this was a step to get us back to where we needed to be after I fucked up but you can’t get that time back...you just can’t. The good news is after this promotion went under...somewhere in the states finally believed I was clean. The bad news...we were on the road almost every day. And that’s more...missed time I can’t take back. All dating back...from my fuck up.
He then stares toward Cordy channeling some of that pain and twisting it into a determined glare.
Seth Iser: But when I find a way...and oh lord coming from near death to have a career means you have to learn to find a way to live...find a way to survive and then eventually turn it into a way to thrive. The Undisputed Title? It means I can fully look Allison in the eyes and say...I’m sorry. I’m sorry for everything I’ve fucked up at early points in your life. I’m sorry I couldn’t provide some of the things you might have wanted at an earlier point in your life. This’ll never take my guilt away...and I might not be forgiven fully but I accept both of those things for what they are.
There’s even a moment where Seth’s eyes are just burning up…
Seth Iser: And even if she doesn’t fully forgive me...I’d understand. But I’d put her in a position to be anything she wants to be in life. She will be better than I ever was and ever will be...and I’d do anything to make sure she has that opportunity. And for what I’ve had to scratch and crawl and fight to get to this spot...with all the people who want to take THAT shot to take me out? The thought of what I’d do...to get that opportunity fully to say ‘I’m sorry’...to her. I’m literally prepared to do anything it takes to get that. Even if it ends up being the last match I ever wrestle with how I push this body, I’ll do it.
And then he looks toward Cordy with that determined look that has spelled doom for many of his opponents.
Seth Iser: When I say I might turn the clock back...Cordy...now you understand. Whatever I have to do...in that ring to be the Undisputed Champion, I’ll do it...because not only is it validation that I’m the best...but more importantly...it’s an apology nearly seventeen years in the making for my kid. And I’m willing to die on that hill if it means my kid is better for it.
Cordy meets Seth’s gaze.
Cordelia Stevenson: And you just might.
She sits forward, her eyes never leaving his.
Cordelia Stevenson: But you have my word in the instance that this does occur that I’ll pass along your sincerest apologies, with my condolences, to your daughter. But this…
She turns her gaze towards Jessie Pederson now.
Cordelia Stevenson: This is why I found myself rooting for Seth Iser. I caught a lot of flack for saying that, that I admired his journey. People misinterpreted that as me supporting and condoning every step that he took and every decision he made when that wasn’t the case. But I can admire his conviction and the path that he’s traveled to get where he is, because as I’ve stated countless times before, I’ve been there.
She pats herself on the chest.
Cordelia Stevenson: As an athlete, as a competitor? There’s nothing more jarring than facing the reality that you may never be able to do the thing that you love anymore. There’s nothing worse than being consumed with doubt, knowing you still have the will and the drive but not knowing if your body will be able to fully comply. If you’ve been fortunate enough to have never had to be in that situation then consider yourself lucky, but don’t judge me for having compassion because the truth of the matter is you’ll never know how devastating of a feeling it is unless you’ve been there. Now I’m familiar with Seth’s injury history. But some of that, what he just said? Some of it was new to me. But I listen to his testimony and you know what I hear? You know what I feel? Something real. And maybe that is why Seth resonates with me, because there’s something real about him. He’s a far cry from the vanilla cookie cutter bullshit that people want to feed us. He doesn’t try to don a mask of perfection, or create this illusion to hide who or what he is.
She points to Seth.
Cordelia Stevenson: He’s unapologetically himself and I love that because I’m always unapologetically me. And despite what people may believe, I’ve always been that way. There’s never been a disguise, Cordy is Cordy. I’ve never been a perfect person. I’ve got a temper and I act out on it when I feel there’s a need to. I felt that way when I tried to tear Jimmy Page apart after he attacked Cyn… I felt that way when I cracked Chandler upside his head with my Undisputed Championship. I’m human. I react. I can’t relate to the phony and the fake. I’m not a happy go lucky robot named Lowri Moss, or a personality deficient cerebral assassin named Fujiko Mine. I say what I feel, and I say what I mean. I’m always respectful until you give me a reason not to be and I will always say what’s on my mind. But that’s what makes me who I am. I can appreciate something real, and that raw emotion that Seth just displayed, it’s what makes him such a deadly opponent. That raw emotion is why he is where he is, and the same thing could be said for me. Seth is fighting for something bigger than himself…
Her gaze returns to Seth and she looks him directly in the eyes.
Cordelia Stevenson: ... and so am I. That is why this unification match is happening. That is why that ‘other’ match on the card is just a dream match and not a unification match. We’re motivated by something more than just the thoughts of our own greatness and accomplishments. That is what has propelled us to this moment in time. Seth seeks redemption. Me? I’m trying to break that proverbial glass ceiling for all of those who look like me that were ever made to feel that they couldn’t; and for the many that will come after me to have a path to follow. A lot of people can’t comprehend something like that because their line of thinking doesn’t extend beyond themselves. And for the longest time, I too was plagued with that problem. But now I understand that sometimes, you have to get your hands a little dirty for something worth fighting for. So believe me, I know that when Seth says he’ll do whatever it takes to become the Undisputed Champion, he means it with every fiber of his being. Because what he’s chasing is worth more than personal honor. I just hope that unlike Lowri, he believes me when I tell him that I’m willing to do just as much, if not more because what I’m fighting for means that much to me. Our passion is what makes us the best at what we do, and this match won’t be a matter of who has the greater passion -- it’ll just be the matter of who will reach their limit first.
Seth returns the gaze with that steely glare making direct eye contact.
Seth Iser: It’d be dishonorable if you didn’t.
There is a little bite to his sentence as that frown is still etched clearly on his face.
Seth Iser: Lowri’s young...I don’t fault what she’s thinking about right now considering she’s just now starting to be viewed as one of the best in the game. In time she’ll understand the million decisions a minute we have to make in that spot but...we’ll cross that bridge when we get there because I got a feeling whoever wins our dispute...she’s our number one contender. Maybe I’m wrong there but...veteran intuition is speaking out toward me on that one on who I think wins that semi main event.
Cordelia scrunches up her face and shakes her head in dissent.
Cordelia Stevenson: Naaahhh. I say let them both take their so-called honorable asses to the back of the line where they belong after losing to us. They’re going to have to work their way back up to this.
The comment about the honor actually brings a chuckle from Iser.
Seth Iser: Ha. Don’t be surprised if I’m right regardless. Especially if it is who I think it is who wins that match and the schedule she’s running.
And after that the scowl is back on his face.
Seth Iser: But back to the matter at hand. Why would you be worried about someone like me being offended if you pulled the tights or even bashed my knee against the ring post if that’s what you think is the best course of action? This isn’t some damned debate online between snowflakes, it’s professional wrestling. We can have the most unselfish motivations in the world...but we only have ourselves in the end in terms of who will one hundred percent look out for us. We have to be selfish to survive. Somebody wins...they get the winner’s benefits and the loser doesn’t and has to live with a lesson in how to get closer to winning. But between you and me…
The stern almost teacher-like glare is now on his face.
Seth Iser: I’d actually be offended if you didn’t do what you had to because as I just said...that’s what I view as dishonorable. Anyone else? Well...the first thing that goes out in the heat of war for 90% of wrestlers and individuals...is their antiquated and romanticized definition of honor.
Cordelia runs a hand through her hair as she listens to Seth.
Cordelia Stevenson: That’s -- quite an interesting way to look at it. If you aren’t willing to sacrifice any and everything for something you want, then just how honorable is your effort? In a strange way, I get it.
Jessie, who has had to be in the middle of all of this has a sweatdrop going down the forehead.
Jessie Pederson: This...didn’t go down the direction I completely envisioned it but...I’ll ask a more straightforward question: Everyone is going to want to see a winner. I’d guess that there might be a little more leniency? Without revealing your hand, does that change your strategy at all?
Seth then eyeballs Jessie calmly.
Seth Iser: No.
A simple one word answer from Iser as he immediately answers it first.
Seth Iser: We’re both intent on doing what needs to be done regardless of how it might look to an outsider. And it’s going to create something these people haven’t seen in at least ten years in this industry. The beats might be different but I’ve been where that woman right there is sitting. Hell, a part of it is why we’re alike as she said...we’re fighting for something beyond wrestling itself. They don’t have to condone everything we’ve ever done. Never claimed in my nineteen years to wear a damn white hat. I’ve done many destructive things to people who deserve it...and to some who didn’t in order to get to where I need to be. We get the answer because there can only be one. These belts? It’s like they’re hanging up above us and it’s all up for grabs...and we’re fighting like hell for it now and the desperation that might create. She knows the weight of what I mean. And vice versa. Either we get what we want or in essence that dream for now dies with the honor that the other did everything it took to put you away.
And then the smile on his face...not the wry one but it’s one that’s far more...at peace.
Seth Iser: I’ll repeat what I said when the match was first announced. In five or ten years. Hell, maybe less than that. Cordy will be me. Just like the conversation with Star years prior...history repeats. And when it happens...that’s when it’ll click exactly what I mean.
Jessie now looks towards Cordy.
Jessie Pederson: Cordy, how do you feel when you hear Seth say that? That in five or ten years, you will be him?
Cordy shrugs and then chuckles.
Cordelia Stevenson: That maybe this man is a prophet. One thing I do hope to have is the knowledge that he’s amassed over the years. Seth Iser has a mind for the business and he knows how to get what he wants. You can’t ignore something like that, and no matter how good you are it’s always something that you have to take into account. As he’s sitting here, I can see the wheels turning; he’s formulating a plan and a means of attack as we speak. I can’t approach every single match the same. At the end of the day, the goal is to just do me to the best of my ability -- but there’s always a method to my madness. So no, my strategy doesn’t change but the way in which I approach just might. Either way, I plan on reaching the same destination. I was the very first person to hold that belt right there.
She points to the FGA World Championship aka the former Undisputed Championship that sits in front of Seth.
Cordelia Stevenson: And in the end it will find itself once again in the hands of its rightful owner; the first person to hold it will be the last to hold it before it is unified with this one to become whole again.
She places a hand on her International Heavyweight Championship.
Cordelia Stevenson: What I said after Past vs Present is true. I am this company’s past. I am this company’s present, and at A New Odyssey, Cordelia Stevenson forges the path of this company’s future. I am the New DNA of FGA and in 10 years, who knows, maybe I will be Seth Iser. But right now? I’m Cordelia Marie Stevenson and come April 27th, that’s the only person I’ll need to be to get the job done.
She blows a kiss at Seth.
Cordelia Stevenson: Get familiar.
Jessie Pederson looks back and forth between the two competitors who are involved in a staredown.
Jessie Pederson: Well, I do believe that is all the time we have tonight. Make sure that you tune in live on April 27th as FGA presents A New Odyssey where we will crown a new Undisputed Champion. Seth Iser. Cordelia Stevenson. It doesn’t get much bigger than this. Thank you for your time. I’m Jessie Pederson. Goodnight folks.
The two champions remain in a staredown as the scene fades to an FGA logo.
Jessie Pederson: Good evening ladies and gentlemen, and thank you for joining us for this Road to ‘A New Odyssey’ special presentation here on Frontier+. I am Jessie Pederson, and tonight I am joined by the FGA World Champion Seth Iser.
Jessie turns and nods towards Seth.
Jessie Pederson: And the International Heavyweight Champion, Cordelia Stevenson.
She turns and nods towards Cordy.
Jessie Pederson: This will be the final time we will see both competitors before their historic unification bout at A New Odyssey on April 27th, at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Jessie smiles towards the camera and looks back and forth between Seth and Cordy.
Jessie Pederson: With the big day quickly approaching, how are you feeling?
Seth just scowls toward Jessie for a moment after being asked that question.
Seth Iser: Take a guess how we’ll both answer that.
He says with a little bit of bite in his tone and the sneer intact. Jessie’s smile vanishes at Seth’s reply.
Seth Iser: If you’re genuinely curious...I’m fine. I feel pretty damn healthy for being in the industry nineteen years. Not exactly the happiest person when I was told on short notice to be here because I was hoping to have another day at home with my family but...work is work so here I am.
Cordy chuckles at Seth’s response.
Cordelia Stevenson: My boy Seth, always the family man. You gotta love it. How can you not respect that? I’m feeling incredible though Jessie, and that is despite the company’s plot to try and have me distracted and less than 100% heading into this match.
Jessie’s eyebrows raise. Cordelia simply holds up a finger.
Cordelia Stevenson: Don’t worry, we’ll definitely touch on that later chica. But just know your girl is here and she’s ready to go, much to the world’s dismay.
Jessie keeps the eyebrow raised for a moment before for the moment respecting the wishes.
Jessie Pederson: But one of the biggest matches in the history of the company is almost here. There will be an Undisputed Champion, and Cordy, you’ve been in this situation before. I’ll start with an easy question, what would unifying the titles a second time mean to you?
It seems like the agitation is gone as Seth is eyeballing his counterpart directly with full attention being paid for what could be said. For a brief moment Cordelia stops spinning in her chair.
Cordelia Stevenson: Everything.
There is no hesitation in her response. The lightness in her tone seems to evaporate in an instant. Her eyes lock in on Jessie’s.
Cordelia Stevenson: You know, when I came into this business, I had the luxury of learning from and being around some of the best minds this business has ever seen. I was able to sit back and pick their minds and learn from their experiences and the things they went through; the things they had to see, the things they had to overcome, and I was a sponge to it all. I got where I am in this business, because more than anything, I was willing to learn. I was willing to listen. And I always think back to a conversation I had with Star Windsor, who was Star Devereaux at the time -- for those of you that don’t know her, she was the owner of Platinum Dynasty Wrestling, the very company where I got my start, and a multi time world champion and hall of famer in her own right -- I remember her telling me how hard it was for her as a black woman in the wrestling business, and how hard it was to overcome all of the obstacles, because no matter how hard you tried, there would always be a glass ceiling that they would try and place above you.
Cordelia sits up now, folding her hands together and leaning forward to rest them on the table.
Cordelia Stevenson: I always remember that conversation but for years it was something that I truly disregarded. Sometimes success or what you perceive to be success can jade your vision. Sometimes it can blind you, and it wasn’t until recently that the blinders were taken off. It wasn’t until I hit my head on the glass ceiling they set above me...
She pauses, biting her lip as she ponders over her words. Seth hasn’t broken his stare from Cordy, as if he’s digesting what’s being said.
Cordelia Stevenson: Working so damn hard to please people that genuinely don’t give a damn about me. They’ll cheer me on as long as I do what they want, but the fact of the matter is they’ve never really given me my just do. Let me ask you this Jessie, why is it that I can be so damn good for so damn long, yet my status is always in question?
Jessie looks as if she is going to speak but Cordelia holds up a finger.
Cordelia Stevenson: I ask myself that and suddenly that conversation with Star becomes so damn clear to me. Why is it that I bust my ass to be the best, yet whenever I’m here, the fans and the company always find any reason to refute that? Why am I always given extra hurdles when the work I’ve put in should be more than enough? To be the longest reigning International Heavyweight Champion, having held that title for more than a year, having defended it against the level of competition that I have, why is my status even in question? Why am I always treated like a second class champion despite defending one of the top prizes in this business with honor and dignity? You said it yourself Jessie, this unification thing isn’t something that is new to me, but why is that? Why is it always me? Why am I always the one asked to prove myself more than anyone else? I’ll tell you why Jessie. It’s that glass ceiling. And that’s exactly why winning this match is so damn important to me. Because when I win, and when I unify the belts -- again -- what will they say then? What extra step will they throw in my path then? What reasons will they find to discredit me next? What criteria will they use to try and justify saying that Cordelia Stevenson isn’t the best? I’m breaking through that glass ceiling, Jessie, because it should have never been there in the first fucking place. That’s what this match means to me.
Cordelia leans back into the chair now and folds her arms across her chest. Meanwhile Seth hasn’t broken his gaze and has kept a poker face just reading exactly what was told to him. The mask finally fades for a moment as a frown creeps onto his face. It’s Jessie who breaks the silence though.
Jessie Pederson: I suppose...I should be fair and ask the same question to Seth. You’ve been everywhere in the world but I don’t think you’ve been in this situation. What would unifying the titles mean to you?
For a brief moment Iser eyeballs the interview but his mannerisms have calmed down.
Seth Iser: ...I’ll answer your question in a minute. But let me answer Cordelia’s...from my own eyes. It might not be the answer she seeks entirely but it’s the answer I have.
He then returns his gaze back to Cordelia with his full attention.
Seth Iser: I’ve said it once before...I’ll say it again. Success isolates. It always has in this industry. We have few, if any friends once you get to a certain point. People just want to know what they can get out of you...especially when you’re on the road with everyone sharpening their knives to come at you one way or another. It can make a good soul turn sour with paranoia with enough exposure and it won’t matter what defences you craft to it.
There’s still this calmness to Iser’s voice as he recounts all of this.
Seth Iser: If you want my opinion Cordy as to the answer of the question at the end of the day...that’s one of the things that causes all of it. We’re always the target...from people who want to make a name...become a champion...maybe even have an axe to grind from a vendetta earlier. But it’s a damn lonely place...where we’re at. Few peers...and people clamoring for someone to be seen on that level because people always want to focus on the new. From social media platform choice to what people want to do with their hair or tattoos...to the damn stars in the industry. People always want to see the next...because that’s what’s most fascinating to’m. It’s their damned escape, really...from what might be going on in their life. Even more so if they relate to what they see...or identify with it. Damned fools those lot...but people have never changed in that regard when you look at history.
There’s a frown on his face as a little bit of the bitterness is creeping into the veteran wrestler.
Seth Iser: It’s a never ending quest to prove yourself on this meat grinder. I’ve always said we’re the gladiators of Rome...often constantly fighting for freedom until the death shot is fired at us. And the moment we try to celebrate our fame...or fortune...our championship...somebody’s shot the damn shot and that’s it. The ride is over.
He leans back on his chair with his eyes closed after he says those words.
Seth Iser: And there are always people looking to line up that damn shot. The bigger the name, the heavier the artillery used. Even here regardless of which of us comes out on top...Lowri, Gareth, Fujiko, Envi if he finds that tenth of a second that he had, Nina, Tyler...Voltage even because he’s hungry enough. Every single one of them wants to be where we’re at right now. So it’s a never ending fight to prove yourself unfortunately because they’re all in their own ways going to fire that damn shot.
And then there’s a wry smile etched on his face.
Seth Iser: But the truth is...regardless of where we’re at...as much as we fought to get this position, we don’t get to enjoy it. Not until we’re done and we can look back at what we had. Because if we take that breath and enjoy it too much again...that shot is fired. That’s how I look at it after spending the last...ten years with everyone pointing their own guns at me in one form or another…in other words, sometimes it’s just a thankless job this is. People talk about the physical price we pay and lord knows we both know it...but that’s the mental price that’s not as talked about. Because...there’s a price for everything. And we all pay eventually…
The wry smile becomes more of a knowing one as if he foresees what might happen in the future for him for a moment before he shakes his head.
Seth Iser: But Jessie you want my answer? What unifying the titles mean to me? Two things. It’s validation from a warrior’s standpoint that I took this woman’s best shot and it wasn’t enough because I can continue writing my Magnum Opus...I would still have control of that pen to write what needs to be written because even if I feel great right now...I also know I’m damn mortal and when the fall off begins...I’ll have no more real opportunities left. That shot I mentioned? I know it’ll be fired eventually. Memento...Mori. It applies to us all. Especially when the average damn career in our sport is three years.
Again that knowing smile is creeping on his face as he says that Latin phrase.
Seth Iser: Maybe it’s Owen down the line. Maybe Izzy cashes her chips in and repays what I’ve done to her...lord knows her schedule is free enough to do that. Perhaps Gareth takes what he learned inside that damned Hell in a Cell and applies it at my expense...or someone could just shoot the shot none of us see coming...gets lucky and that’s it. I’d be done. I might be in the best shape of my life but I’m not a damn fool knowing my roads. So that’s why I’ve scheduled the way I have...and prepared the way I have. To stay permanently aware and sharp…
He then frowns as he lets out a breath.
Seth Iser: The second thing it’d mean? The bigger thing it represents to me... Two words: I’m sorry.
And those two words are what make Jessie’s head turn and blink. Even Cordy’s eyes widen a bit hearing those words come from Seth’s mouth. And the way he said it...he means it fully.
Seth Iser: I had my own bout of a little discrimination in this industry but unlike in your case...mine was self inflicted. Especially when we were at the point when the industry was just starting to clean up on the drug use and guess who was one of the worst drug users in the industry at the time? He’s sitting right here. Even when you’re clean...job opportunities aren’t exactly common when you have THAT hanging over your head for years. Especially if that incident feels so...fresh.
He frowns coldly at this recounting this.
Seth Iser: And when one of the lasting memories promoters and a lot of wrestlers that were MY peers at the time is me being passed out in the shower because I overdosed? I did everybody wrong...in that moment. I disgraced the sport. I disgraced my name...and I disgraced my...family. When I woke up in the hospital at that moment...I damn near lost everything, Cordy…
He swallows as he takes a breath...his voice never lower when he said that.
Seth Iser: I lost my first wife...I lost my job. I lost my health at the time...I was on the verge of losing my own life and self...and I almost lost my daughter…
He again shakes his head recounting all of this...tapping the copper bracelet over his left wrist, the symbol of his sobriety.
Seth Iser: I think about that day a lot...it’s hard not to. And then came the long fight...to get everything back. I had to leave the sport for a little while...fight the addictions that had taken control over me but when I really look back...I was an angry person who was blaming everyone else except my wife and daughter...even then I had a LITTLE bit of sense but...I remember initially being so goddamn angry after I went away and came back...clean that nobody wanted to hire me because things were getting damn lean at home. Couldn’t provide for myself or my kid. Looking back now...I fully understand why they were hesitant. Hell...I wouldn’t have hired me either then…
He lets out a sigh as he continues.
Seth Iser: A job finally did open up. It was in the United Kingdom. They saw what I was...thought they could take a chance and I needed the work so I took it. And I missed a lot of time with my daughter taking the job to provide for my family at the time. I took a little comfort knowing...this was a step to get us back to where we needed to be after I fucked up but you can’t get that time back...you just can’t. The good news is after this promotion went under...somewhere in the states finally believed I was clean. The bad news...we were on the road almost every day. And that’s more...missed time I can’t take back. All dating back...from my fuck up.
He then stares toward Cordy channeling some of that pain and twisting it into a determined glare.
Seth Iser: But when I find a way...and oh lord coming from near death to have a career means you have to learn to find a way to live...find a way to survive and then eventually turn it into a way to thrive. The Undisputed Title? It means I can fully look Allison in the eyes and say...I’m sorry. I’m sorry for everything I’ve fucked up at early points in your life. I’m sorry I couldn’t provide some of the things you might have wanted at an earlier point in your life. This’ll never take my guilt away...and I might not be forgiven fully but I accept both of those things for what they are.
There’s even a moment where Seth’s eyes are just burning up…
Seth Iser: And even if she doesn’t fully forgive me...I’d understand. But I’d put her in a position to be anything she wants to be in life. She will be better than I ever was and ever will be...and I’d do anything to make sure she has that opportunity. And for what I’ve had to scratch and crawl and fight to get to this spot...with all the people who want to take THAT shot to take me out? The thought of what I’d do...to get that opportunity fully to say ‘I’m sorry’...to her. I’m literally prepared to do anything it takes to get that. Even if it ends up being the last match I ever wrestle with how I push this body, I’ll do it.
And then he looks toward Cordy with that determined look that has spelled doom for many of his opponents.
Seth Iser: When I say I might turn the clock back...Cordy...now you understand. Whatever I have to do...in that ring to be the Undisputed Champion, I’ll do it...because not only is it validation that I’m the best...but more importantly...it’s an apology nearly seventeen years in the making for my kid. And I’m willing to die on that hill if it means my kid is better for it.
Cordy meets Seth’s gaze.
Cordelia Stevenson: And you just might.
She sits forward, her eyes never leaving his.
Cordelia Stevenson: But you have my word in the instance that this does occur that I’ll pass along your sincerest apologies, with my condolences, to your daughter. But this…
She turns her gaze towards Jessie Pederson now.
Cordelia Stevenson: This is why I found myself rooting for Seth Iser. I caught a lot of flack for saying that, that I admired his journey. People misinterpreted that as me supporting and condoning every step that he took and every decision he made when that wasn’t the case. But I can admire his conviction and the path that he’s traveled to get where he is, because as I’ve stated countless times before, I’ve been there.
She pats herself on the chest.
Cordelia Stevenson: As an athlete, as a competitor? There’s nothing more jarring than facing the reality that you may never be able to do the thing that you love anymore. There’s nothing worse than being consumed with doubt, knowing you still have the will and the drive but not knowing if your body will be able to fully comply. If you’ve been fortunate enough to have never had to be in that situation then consider yourself lucky, but don’t judge me for having compassion because the truth of the matter is you’ll never know how devastating of a feeling it is unless you’ve been there. Now I’m familiar with Seth’s injury history. But some of that, what he just said? Some of it was new to me. But I listen to his testimony and you know what I hear? You know what I feel? Something real. And maybe that is why Seth resonates with me, because there’s something real about him. He’s a far cry from the vanilla cookie cutter bullshit that people want to feed us. He doesn’t try to don a mask of perfection, or create this illusion to hide who or what he is.
She points to Seth.
Cordelia Stevenson: He’s unapologetically himself and I love that because I’m always unapologetically me. And despite what people may believe, I’ve always been that way. There’s never been a disguise, Cordy is Cordy. I’ve never been a perfect person. I’ve got a temper and I act out on it when I feel there’s a need to. I felt that way when I tried to tear Jimmy Page apart after he attacked Cyn… I felt that way when I cracked Chandler upside his head with my Undisputed Championship. I’m human. I react. I can’t relate to the phony and the fake. I’m not a happy go lucky robot named Lowri Moss, or a personality deficient cerebral assassin named Fujiko Mine. I say what I feel, and I say what I mean. I’m always respectful until you give me a reason not to be and I will always say what’s on my mind. But that’s what makes me who I am. I can appreciate something real, and that raw emotion that Seth just displayed, it’s what makes him such a deadly opponent. That raw emotion is why he is where he is, and the same thing could be said for me. Seth is fighting for something bigger than himself…
Her gaze returns to Seth and she looks him directly in the eyes.
Cordelia Stevenson: ... and so am I. That is why this unification match is happening. That is why that ‘other’ match on the card is just a dream match and not a unification match. We’re motivated by something more than just the thoughts of our own greatness and accomplishments. That is what has propelled us to this moment in time. Seth seeks redemption. Me? I’m trying to break that proverbial glass ceiling for all of those who look like me that were ever made to feel that they couldn’t; and for the many that will come after me to have a path to follow. A lot of people can’t comprehend something like that because their line of thinking doesn’t extend beyond themselves. And for the longest time, I too was plagued with that problem. But now I understand that sometimes, you have to get your hands a little dirty for something worth fighting for. So believe me, I know that when Seth says he’ll do whatever it takes to become the Undisputed Champion, he means it with every fiber of his being. Because what he’s chasing is worth more than personal honor. I just hope that unlike Lowri, he believes me when I tell him that I’m willing to do just as much, if not more because what I’m fighting for means that much to me. Our passion is what makes us the best at what we do, and this match won’t be a matter of who has the greater passion -- it’ll just be the matter of who will reach their limit first.
Seth returns the gaze with that steely glare making direct eye contact.
Seth Iser: It’d be dishonorable if you didn’t.
There is a little bite to his sentence as that frown is still etched clearly on his face.
Seth Iser: Lowri’s young...I don’t fault what she’s thinking about right now considering she’s just now starting to be viewed as one of the best in the game. In time she’ll understand the million decisions a minute we have to make in that spot but...we’ll cross that bridge when we get there because I got a feeling whoever wins our dispute...she’s our number one contender. Maybe I’m wrong there but...veteran intuition is speaking out toward me on that one on who I think wins that semi main event.
Cordelia scrunches up her face and shakes her head in dissent.
Cordelia Stevenson: Naaahhh. I say let them both take their so-called honorable asses to the back of the line where they belong after losing to us. They’re going to have to work their way back up to this.
The comment about the honor actually brings a chuckle from Iser.
Seth Iser: Ha. Don’t be surprised if I’m right regardless. Especially if it is who I think it is who wins that match and the schedule she’s running.
And after that the scowl is back on his face.
Seth Iser: But back to the matter at hand. Why would you be worried about someone like me being offended if you pulled the tights or even bashed my knee against the ring post if that’s what you think is the best course of action? This isn’t some damned debate online between snowflakes, it’s professional wrestling. We can have the most unselfish motivations in the world...but we only have ourselves in the end in terms of who will one hundred percent look out for us. We have to be selfish to survive. Somebody wins...they get the winner’s benefits and the loser doesn’t and has to live with a lesson in how to get closer to winning. But between you and me…
The stern almost teacher-like glare is now on his face.
Seth Iser: I’d actually be offended if you didn’t do what you had to because as I just said...that’s what I view as dishonorable. Anyone else? Well...the first thing that goes out in the heat of war for 90% of wrestlers and individuals...is their antiquated and romanticized definition of honor.
Cordelia runs a hand through her hair as she listens to Seth.
Cordelia Stevenson: That’s -- quite an interesting way to look at it. If you aren’t willing to sacrifice any and everything for something you want, then just how honorable is your effort? In a strange way, I get it.
Jessie, who has had to be in the middle of all of this has a sweatdrop going down the forehead.
Jessie Pederson: This...didn’t go down the direction I completely envisioned it but...I’ll ask a more straightforward question: Everyone is going to want to see a winner. I’d guess that there might be a little more leniency? Without revealing your hand, does that change your strategy at all?
Seth then eyeballs Jessie calmly.
Seth Iser: No.
A simple one word answer from Iser as he immediately answers it first.
Seth Iser: We’re both intent on doing what needs to be done regardless of how it might look to an outsider. And it’s going to create something these people haven’t seen in at least ten years in this industry. The beats might be different but I’ve been where that woman right there is sitting. Hell, a part of it is why we’re alike as she said...we’re fighting for something beyond wrestling itself. They don’t have to condone everything we’ve ever done. Never claimed in my nineteen years to wear a damn white hat. I’ve done many destructive things to people who deserve it...and to some who didn’t in order to get to where I need to be. We get the answer because there can only be one. These belts? It’s like they’re hanging up above us and it’s all up for grabs...and we’re fighting like hell for it now and the desperation that might create. She knows the weight of what I mean. And vice versa. Either we get what we want or in essence that dream for now dies with the honor that the other did everything it took to put you away.
And then the smile on his face...not the wry one but it’s one that’s far more...at peace.
Seth Iser: I’ll repeat what I said when the match was first announced. In five or ten years. Hell, maybe less than that. Cordy will be me. Just like the conversation with Star years prior...history repeats. And when it happens...that’s when it’ll click exactly what I mean.
Jessie now looks towards Cordy.
Jessie Pederson: Cordy, how do you feel when you hear Seth say that? That in five or ten years, you will be him?
Cordy shrugs and then chuckles.
Cordelia Stevenson: That maybe this man is a prophet. One thing I do hope to have is the knowledge that he’s amassed over the years. Seth Iser has a mind for the business and he knows how to get what he wants. You can’t ignore something like that, and no matter how good you are it’s always something that you have to take into account. As he’s sitting here, I can see the wheels turning; he’s formulating a plan and a means of attack as we speak. I can’t approach every single match the same. At the end of the day, the goal is to just do me to the best of my ability -- but there’s always a method to my madness. So no, my strategy doesn’t change but the way in which I approach just might. Either way, I plan on reaching the same destination. I was the very first person to hold that belt right there.
She points to the FGA World Championship aka the former Undisputed Championship that sits in front of Seth.
Cordelia Stevenson: And in the end it will find itself once again in the hands of its rightful owner; the first person to hold it will be the last to hold it before it is unified with this one to become whole again.
She places a hand on her International Heavyweight Championship.
Cordelia Stevenson: What I said after Past vs Present is true. I am this company’s past. I am this company’s present, and at A New Odyssey, Cordelia Stevenson forges the path of this company’s future. I am the New DNA of FGA and in 10 years, who knows, maybe I will be Seth Iser. But right now? I’m Cordelia Marie Stevenson and come April 27th, that’s the only person I’ll need to be to get the job done.
She blows a kiss at Seth.
Cordelia Stevenson: Get familiar.
Jessie Pederson looks back and forth between the two competitors who are involved in a staredown.
Jessie Pederson: Well, I do believe that is all the time we have tonight. Make sure that you tune in live on April 27th as FGA presents A New Odyssey where we will crown a new Undisputed Champion. Seth Iser. Cordelia Stevenson. It doesn’t get much bigger than this. Thank you for your time. I’m Jessie Pederson. Goodnight folks.
The two champions remain in a staredown as the scene fades to an FGA logo.
