Face To Face: Tyler Storm & Ace Voltage
Apr 27, 2021 1:13:56 GMT -5
Post by FGA Office on Apr 27, 2021 1:13:56 GMT -5
Geoff Penzer: Hello, wrestling fans, and welcome to this addition of Face 2 Face. I'm Geoff Penzer. This coming Tuesday at 2021: A New Odyssey, we will see two men compete over one of the most coveted championships in all of FGA. In the role of the challenger is Ace Voltage. Ace has referred to himself as the future of FGA, the Main Event of FGA and the greatest Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion. A lot of that can be debated. But what can't be debated is that he went on to become the longest reigning Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion at 330 days. At 2021: A New Odyssey, Ace looks to add another title to his collection: the Pride Championship. Ace, welcome.
Ace, smiling at the camera, wearing sneakers, jeans and an Ace Voltage t-shirt gets ready to answer Geoff.
Ace Voltage: Thank you for having me here, Geoff. Or should I say, you’re welcome for being here for this segment. You will definitely see a nice ratings boost when the fans see my name appearing on this edition of Face 2 Face.
Geoff Penzer: In the role of the champion is a man that is currently a two-time Pride Champion. This is an accomplishment that only Chris Bond, Tony Carmine, John Carmichael, Chris Madison and Fujiko Mine have achieved. This is a man that has gone to great lengths and has made many sacrifices to win the Pride Championship on both occasions. At 2021: A New Odyssey, he will look to turn away another challenger as he defends his championship live on Pay Per View. Of course, I'm talking about Tyler Storm. Tyler, welcome.
The champion nods to the acknowledgment and adjusts himself up a bit more in the chair he is sitting in. A bright smile clearly around his lips, and the Pride Championship laying over his shoulder which he grasps onto proudly.
Tyler Storm: I certainly don’t know if I’ve fully made it into the conversation with a few of those folks you mentioned, but I’ll take it all the same. Glad to be here, Geoff, and I’m definitely glad I finally get to hear Ace in person. I’ve been waiting for the opportunity to see what you’ve got on your mind, man.
Geoff Penzer: I guess we should go to where all this started. Tyler, you had just successfully defended your Pride Champion against Marlon Cure at All-Star Showdown IX. Moments after you got your hand raised, the man sitting across the ring from you came out and made his intentions known. What were your immediate thoughts?
Tyler Storm: Immediately, it was hard to fully grasp it, I think once the main part of the confrontation really set in is when I fully took in what was running around in my head. I mean, was I surprised? Maybe a little, it’s not exactly the kind of thing you expect immediately after a hard fought title bought, but from a competitive perspective I was genuinely impressed. Especially so because he made his intentions clear without anything cheap, he made clear what he wanted, we acknowledged one another, and that was it. Easiest reaction from there is, well, that I’m ready for the next chapter of this book I want to write as a take-all-challenges champion.
Geoff Penzer: Ace, there are some that might think you jumped the line to get this championship opportunity. One usually doesn't lose a championship and immediately become the top contender for another. What made you feel as though you were deserving of this opportunity?
Ace Voltage: Jumped the line? I hope that the “marks” are saying that and not you Geoff. I didn’t jump any line. There was no line to begin with. I flat out stepped up to Tyler when nobody else would. Before I came out of that curtain, after he defeated Marlon Cure, nobody was standing there. Nobody was willing to face Tyler like a true competitor. So no, I didn’t jump any line. I took advantage of the opportunity. I don’t need to explain why I am deserving of this opportunity. Have you seen what I’ve accomplished since I’ve been here? You said it yourself Geoff. I became the longest reigning Mid-Atlantic Legacy champion in this company. The BEST Mid-Atlantic Legacy champion of all time. My track record speaks for itself. Surely if Tyler is a fighting champion, an honorable one, he will be happy to defend his title against me.
Geoff Penzer: This past Saturday, you both competed at FGA's Past vs Present event. Ace, I'll start with you. You kicked things off that night when you stepped into the ring with a former FGA Heavyweight Champion in AJ Fairchild. What did it mean to a) be selected to compete at an event like this and b) be put up against AJ Fairchild?
Ace Voltage: You know, mate, I’ve been talking about respect ever since I got into this company. Nobody cared about me before I stepped foot in this ring. I wanted to be treated like a top level guy because I have been one since day one. I back up what I preach. I had one of the greatest rookie years of all time! So, I was actually honored and humbled to be chosen for Past vs Present.
The two look surprised as this is out of character for Ace.
Ace Voltage: Yes even the great Ace Voltage can be humbled. It was an honor to see that FGA Management finally thought of me as a top level guy. As a guy to represent the PRESENT of FGA. You may not think so, but it meant a lot to me to be able to compete on that card. AJ gave me quite a fight as we all saw. I knew it would be the toughest test so far in my FGA career. But to be on the card and face a former world champion? I knew I had to win. Anything less would be a let down, especially after stepping up to Mr. Storm. It felt great to win and feels ever better to know that FGA Management has the confidence in me. It’s about damn time!
Geoff Penzer: You also had an interesting night, Tyler, when your Mystery Opponent was revealed to be your close personal friend, Owen Gonsalves. When you heard his theme music hit, what immediately went through your mind?
Tyler tilts his head up just a bit to show a brighter smile and a gentle laugh. He nods very slowly to himself.
Tyler Storm: Oh lord, I mean...well first before I hit that, I do want to share a very similar sentiment that Ace just made. Honestly, for me, to even be considered for that show and to be able to also represent the Present for FGA, I’m just grateful. So so grateful that a guy like me has put in the work and when all was said and done earned the right to be in a conversation of representing FGA like that. I know I just wanted to go out there, knowing I represented as a champion as well, and put on a show to remember that everyone on that card did on an incredible level, Ace included because that match with AJ was freaking awesome to watch backstage as a fan man. It really grounded me emotionally and reminded me and why I love doing this so much as a career. You can’t match the feeling of nights like that all the time, and that was a special night. And now, as far as my Mystery Opponent…
Again, a small bit of laughter from the champion.
Tyler Storm: First thing that came to mind there when I heard Owen’s music hit, I thought I was just imagining it because he was the last person I expected. Then seeing him pop up out from the curtain and heading down to the ring, my eyes got so wide and I felt so many different emotions. I was shocked, I was beyond happy, I was pissed because I knew that Owen was gonna gas me out knowing the way we used to spar back in the day, just...lord so many emotions. But aside from getting to be a champion in this business, knowing that I was going to finally share the ring with my best friend since my literal day 1 in this business, that might have been one of the most important nights of my career. 0 question, that is the ultimate feeling. That was something we both have waited for well near 12 years for and the fact FGA made it happen made me so happy.
Geoff Penzer: Of course, we have to talk about the match between yourself and Owen. What was it like being in there against someone that isn't just a close friend, but someone of his caliber? On paper, this match was right up his alley.
Tyler Storm: Oh on a competitive level, Owen had me in a rough way with that match. But that said, Pure Rules isn’t much different than what I deal with when it comes to fighting for and defending this wonderful championship right here under Pride Rules. It’s a match of ruthal endurance, and Owen took me to every limit I possibly had, which I expected from someone who literally came up with me, trained under the same people, overcame similar challenges...that was a brutal match on my body and I loved every moment of it.
Geoff Penzer: Another question for you, champ. What key takeaways did you have from that match with Owen and how, if at all, will you apply that to your match coming up against Ace Voltage?
Tyler Storm: When you get the chance to test your every limit against someone with the skillset that Owen has, you know how to properly set your endurance levels because he really pushes you past your typical limits. Getting to face off with Owen, it just ultimately prepares me and reminds my body that my mental limitations are a lot less existent. I get reminded of how much further I can go to prove myself, and that is only doubled when it comes to defending this Pride Championship. If I am capable of pushing that far and still beating Owen, I can guarantee that in a situation with more on the line, I can be a much different level of competitor.
Geoff Penzer: Ace, you have certainly proved yourself to be a worthy competitor. Despite your recent championship loss, you've bounced back. Not only did you defeat Max Powers in a Pride Rules match, but you've also beaten AJ Fairchild. How important is it to bounce back and gain that momentum heading into this match with Tyler Storm?
Ace Voltage: Like I said, there was no other outcome on my mind against Fairchild. I needed to win. Facing Max Powers in a Pride Rules match was a must win for me too. I know Tyler takes me seriously, ever since our first encounter. But what if I lost to Powers and Fairchild? I’d be a joke! Even the great Ace Voltage knows you need to win matches to get championship matches. Momentum is everything. I hope you were watching me champ, because AJ Fairchild could be you come A New Odyssey. I’d hate for you to have to tap out. Maybe even twice!
Ace gives a smirk toward Tyler.
Geoff Penzer: Ace, when you look across this table and you see the man that's holding the championship that you want, what do you see?
Ace Voltage: I see a champion. I see a competitor. I see a great wrestler to be honest. But, I also see fear in you, Tyler.
Ace points to Tyler’s eyes.
Ace Voltage: I see fear in your eyes Tyler. I heard your comments about me after I defeated Fairchild. You know that I’m a much better competitor than I was the last time we were in the ring. You admitted it. And that scares you. Because you thought you had me easily beat last time. But this time? It’s a whole new ballgame, mate. No doubt about it you are a fierce competitor. You will be tough to beat. But, I will be tougher to beat. You know there is nothing more dangerous than a desperate man. I’ve held gold here before and I know the champion’s mindset. Tyler, you have everything to lose and I have everything to gain and that scares the crap out of you. We all know how the locker room feels about me and how they feel about you. This match is more than just a championship. You know that your friends will be disappointed in you if you lose, your fans might even turn on you. I can smell fear a mile away and boy I can’t wait to take that championship from you.
Geoff Penzer: Tyler, same question. When you look across this table and you lock eyes with the man that wants to take your championship, what do you see?
Tyler Storm: To be completely honest, I see hunger. I see someone desperate to be in this spot every moment in his career, and I can respect that. I see a person fully intent on doing whatever it takes to beat me, and as a competitor that is beyond exciting. I mean, again, you heard how highly I spoke of you recently my man. Regardless of what anyone thinks of you, good or bad, you have history on your side as a legitimate top tier competitor. Holding a title as long as you did with the Mid-Atlantic Legacy title speaks for itself, regardless of tactics. Here is the issue though, Ace...your hunger and confidence may speak volumes, but I worry about how far that reaches into desperation. I don’t want to put anything into your head on that end per se...I just hope you know full well that if your desperation shines through too much, you fall right into the trap that has been the fall of many a good man going after gold, myself included. That’s where I have to warn. Maybe I’m wrong...but I’d be crazy not to see that with that little spark in your eye.
Geoff Penzer: To become successful in wrestling, one needs to make sacrifices. Tyler here made plenty of sacrifices en route to winning the Pride Championship the first time. When he went to challenge Lowri for the title again, he opted out of competing in the Gold Rush Rumble. He wanted his sole focus on the championship. That's a decision that I'm sure 99.9% of grapplers wouldn't make. So Ace, what sacrifices are you willing to make to become Pride Champion at A New Odyssey??
Ace Voltage: If you have paid attention to my style of wrestling, I will admit that I am a little out of my comfort zone. That match against Max Powers was important for me and a great showcase to Tyler of what I will do to him. Ya know, Pride Rules is all about honor. All about fairness. I’ve used shortcuts in matches. I’ve raked some eyes, kicked some groins and refused to break holds on the ropes. But the beauty of Pride Rules? All of that is illegal. If we’re being real here, I’m sacrificing my style of wrestling that I’ve been accustomed to. I do whatever I can to win and that will have to change. I’ve been training my ass off for this match, different training than before. And you want to sit here and basically congratulate Tyler for not pulling double duty?
Ace makes a confused face.
Ace Voltage: Why make that sacrifice? I don’t believe in taking a night off. When I was the Mid-Atlantic Champion I took pride in the way I represented that title and the rest of the champions in FGA. At Only The Strong Survive I pulled double duty that night. I defended my title against Cassius Reed AND almost won the damn Gold Rush Rumble! You don’t need to make sacrifices when you’re the champ. You are the king of the mountain. Everyone is gunning for you. You don’t get nights off. Since I stepped up to Tyler Storm, my sole focus has been his championship. To say I need to make more sacrifices for it? The only sacrifice I am willing to make is my health. I don’t care if I leave with broken bones or blood running down my face. I will defeat Tyler for the Pride championship. That will be a guarantee, Geoff.
Geoff Penzer: Tyler, similar question. What are you willing to do to retain your championship?
Tyler Storm: Geoff, I could point out several different things I’m willing to do for this beautiful prize on my shoulder, but the fact is the evidence is in the tape what I’m willing to do. Go back to my relentlessness when climbing up the ladder of this company to go after Fujiko, the pain I put my body through when I battled Seth Iser, including the very insane spot I pulled on him that resulted in the both of us unable to continue in our first fight for the Pride Championship. The even further levels I went to overcome Iser, something that holds a lot more weight now with him being FGA World Champion. Every mental and physical gap I had to jump over, I did, when it came to regaining this after losing it to Lowri. I turned down an opportunity at one of the grandest prizes in this damn company to simply fight for this Pride Championship. The only thing I’m not willing to sacrifice at this point is my family, but after that, I’d give anything to be and to remain Pride Champion. This title means that much to me on a personal level and will forever mean that much to me.
Geoff Penzer: Ace, is there one move of Tyler's that concerns you the most?
Ace Voltage: I wouldn’t use the word concern, Geoff. I am not concerned about Tyler and his moveset. I am fully confident I can take anything from him. But, to give an answer to your question, I won’t take the easy way out and say Eye of the Storm. No, let’s go off the board here. I know how Tyler wrestlers, I’ve been watching him for a while. Big moves come out of big matches. This is potentially the biggest match on the card. So Geoff, one thing I will not let happen is let myself be down on the mat in a bad position for too long. The Paranoia Plummet is the one move I’d like to avoid. Tyler, I’ll give you credit. It is a beautiful and devastating moonsault. You may not think I do my homework, but I do. I promise you, if you get to that top rope, you best think twice mate.
Geoff Penzer: Tyler, same question. Is there a move in Ace's arsenal that gives you cause for concern? I don't mean to influence your answer, but Ace has pulled out The London Special lately and has gotten multiple submissions with it.
Tyler Storm: I mean the obvious is obvious for a reason. I’m a guy that does pride myself heavily on not being someone that gives up, but even I can admit the way Ace has mastered that submission hold is heavy cause for concern for me. I’m hopeful I can avoid that move, but honestly, I’m not gonna be surprised if I get caught in that at least once, or even nearly caught in it. Might end up being the way I lose a rope break. We’ll have to see, of course. Though I’d also need to keep my eye of for that Ace of Spades he has. If there is any move that you ever want to avoid, it’s a wrestler’s setup move, and the Ace of Spades is essentially Ace’s setup move. If that is hit, he’s got easy access to move into The London Special or Thunderstruck or whatever else he has in his bag of tricks. I know I’ll have to find a way to properly prepare for that or I’m in for a quick night...and I don’t mean that in a good way at all.
Geoff Penzer: Ace, do you have any final words for Tyler?
Ace Voltage: Finals words, eh?
Ace looks Tyler in the eyes as he speaks.
Ace Voltage: I hope you hold onto that title real tight at night before A New Odyssey. Kiss your title goodnight a few last times. Take some pictures of that title...
Ace points to Tyler’s championship.
Ace Voltage: Because after A New Odyssey? You won’t get that chance anymore. You will have to tell your family, the locker room and your precious fans that you weren’t good enough. That even after all your talking, you couldn’t back it up against me. You will have to live with the fact that you will let your fans down. The same ones that boo me every time I step foot in the ring. And I love it. I love hearing your fans boo me. I love hearing them call me every dirty name they can think of. Do you know why, Ty? Because people don’t boo nobodies, Tyler. I am NOT a nobody. I am Ace Voltage! Future, FGA Pride Champion.
Geoff Penzer: Tyler, do you have any final words for Ace?
Tyler Storm: I could sit here, Ace...and just look past every single word you have to say. I could say every single thing you’ve said is a fake reality, you are way over your head, so on and so forth, but honestly I have to give it to you...you’ve freaking impressed me, man. Legit, my hat is fully off to you for the way you’ve carried yourself in the ring leading up to our match, and even outside the ring compared to your usual demeanor. You’ve slowly but surely earned my respect whether you’ve been looking for it or not. But one thing I do have to make clear, regardless of any impressed feeling or respect I have, I hope you really know that the guy you faced all those months ago that almost beat you in the ring before you scampered away...it’s a different beast when it comes to the battle for Pride. Pride is in my blood at this point and I intend on solidifying that against a top tier challenger such as yourself at A New Odyssey. I do not brag, I do not put down good talent standing before me, I simply state what I know. I’ve done this for too long, put in too many hours of work both pre and post major injury, and gave too much of my life to this ring to have my flame put out when it hasn’t even started bursting into the fire it’s meant to. At A New Odyssey, I want you to understand that I intend fully to beat you, but regardless of the outcome, don’t you dare disrespect this great title by coming in with some sort of shading confidence. Put in the work, come to fight, let’s go show the world who two of the best damn wrestlers in FGA are right now, and may the better man win. I fully intend for that better man to be...AND...STILL...your FGA Pride Champion...Tyler Storm.
Geoff Penzer: Thank you for your time, gentlemen.
Ace, smiling at the camera, wearing sneakers, jeans and an Ace Voltage t-shirt gets ready to answer Geoff.
Ace Voltage: Thank you for having me here, Geoff. Or should I say, you’re welcome for being here for this segment. You will definitely see a nice ratings boost when the fans see my name appearing on this edition of Face 2 Face.
Geoff Penzer: In the role of the champion is a man that is currently a two-time Pride Champion. This is an accomplishment that only Chris Bond, Tony Carmine, John Carmichael, Chris Madison and Fujiko Mine have achieved. This is a man that has gone to great lengths and has made many sacrifices to win the Pride Championship on both occasions. At 2021: A New Odyssey, he will look to turn away another challenger as he defends his championship live on Pay Per View. Of course, I'm talking about Tyler Storm. Tyler, welcome.
The champion nods to the acknowledgment and adjusts himself up a bit more in the chair he is sitting in. A bright smile clearly around his lips, and the Pride Championship laying over his shoulder which he grasps onto proudly.
Tyler Storm: I certainly don’t know if I’ve fully made it into the conversation with a few of those folks you mentioned, but I’ll take it all the same. Glad to be here, Geoff, and I’m definitely glad I finally get to hear Ace in person. I’ve been waiting for the opportunity to see what you’ve got on your mind, man.
Geoff Penzer: I guess we should go to where all this started. Tyler, you had just successfully defended your Pride Champion against Marlon Cure at All-Star Showdown IX. Moments after you got your hand raised, the man sitting across the ring from you came out and made his intentions known. What were your immediate thoughts?
Tyler Storm: Immediately, it was hard to fully grasp it, I think once the main part of the confrontation really set in is when I fully took in what was running around in my head. I mean, was I surprised? Maybe a little, it’s not exactly the kind of thing you expect immediately after a hard fought title bought, but from a competitive perspective I was genuinely impressed. Especially so because he made his intentions clear without anything cheap, he made clear what he wanted, we acknowledged one another, and that was it. Easiest reaction from there is, well, that I’m ready for the next chapter of this book I want to write as a take-all-challenges champion.
Geoff Penzer: Ace, there are some that might think you jumped the line to get this championship opportunity. One usually doesn't lose a championship and immediately become the top contender for another. What made you feel as though you were deserving of this opportunity?
Ace Voltage: Jumped the line? I hope that the “marks” are saying that and not you Geoff. I didn’t jump any line. There was no line to begin with. I flat out stepped up to Tyler when nobody else would. Before I came out of that curtain, after he defeated Marlon Cure, nobody was standing there. Nobody was willing to face Tyler like a true competitor. So no, I didn’t jump any line. I took advantage of the opportunity. I don’t need to explain why I am deserving of this opportunity. Have you seen what I’ve accomplished since I’ve been here? You said it yourself Geoff. I became the longest reigning Mid-Atlantic Legacy champion in this company. The BEST Mid-Atlantic Legacy champion of all time. My track record speaks for itself. Surely if Tyler is a fighting champion, an honorable one, he will be happy to defend his title against me.
Geoff Penzer: This past Saturday, you both competed at FGA's Past vs Present event. Ace, I'll start with you. You kicked things off that night when you stepped into the ring with a former FGA Heavyweight Champion in AJ Fairchild. What did it mean to a) be selected to compete at an event like this and b) be put up against AJ Fairchild?
Ace Voltage: You know, mate, I’ve been talking about respect ever since I got into this company. Nobody cared about me before I stepped foot in this ring. I wanted to be treated like a top level guy because I have been one since day one. I back up what I preach. I had one of the greatest rookie years of all time! So, I was actually honored and humbled to be chosen for Past vs Present.
The two look surprised as this is out of character for Ace.
Ace Voltage: Yes even the great Ace Voltage can be humbled. It was an honor to see that FGA Management finally thought of me as a top level guy. As a guy to represent the PRESENT of FGA. You may not think so, but it meant a lot to me to be able to compete on that card. AJ gave me quite a fight as we all saw. I knew it would be the toughest test so far in my FGA career. But to be on the card and face a former world champion? I knew I had to win. Anything less would be a let down, especially after stepping up to Mr. Storm. It felt great to win and feels ever better to know that FGA Management has the confidence in me. It’s about damn time!
Geoff Penzer: You also had an interesting night, Tyler, when your Mystery Opponent was revealed to be your close personal friend, Owen Gonsalves. When you heard his theme music hit, what immediately went through your mind?
Tyler tilts his head up just a bit to show a brighter smile and a gentle laugh. He nods very slowly to himself.
Tyler Storm: Oh lord, I mean...well first before I hit that, I do want to share a very similar sentiment that Ace just made. Honestly, for me, to even be considered for that show and to be able to also represent the Present for FGA, I’m just grateful. So so grateful that a guy like me has put in the work and when all was said and done earned the right to be in a conversation of representing FGA like that. I know I just wanted to go out there, knowing I represented as a champion as well, and put on a show to remember that everyone on that card did on an incredible level, Ace included because that match with AJ was freaking awesome to watch backstage as a fan man. It really grounded me emotionally and reminded me and why I love doing this so much as a career. You can’t match the feeling of nights like that all the time, and that was a special night. And now, as far as my Mystery Opponent…
Again, a small bit of laughter from the champion.
Tyler Storm: First thing that came to mind there when I heard Owen’s music hit, I thought I was just imagining it because he was the last person I expected. Then seeing him pop up out from the curtain and heading down to the ring, my eyes got so wide and I felt so many different emotions. I was shocked, I was beyond happy, I was pissed because I knew that Owen was gonna gas me out knowing the way we used to spar back in the day, just...lord so many emotions. But aside from getting to be a champion in this business, knowing that I was going to finally share the ring with my best friend since my literal day 1 in this business, that might have been one of the most important nights of my career. 0 question, that is the ultimate feeling. That was something we both have waited for well near 12 years for and the fact FGA made it happen made me so happy.
Geoff Penzer: Of course, we have to talk about the match between yourself and Owen. What was it like being in there against someone that isn't just a close friend, but someone of his caliber? On paper, this match was right up his alley.
Tyler Storm: Oh on a competitive level, Owen had me in a rough way with that match. But that said, Pure Rules isn’t much different than what I deal with when it comes to fighting for and defending this wonderful championship right here under Pride Rules. It’s a match of ruthal endurance, and Owen took me to every limit I possibly had, which I expected from someone who literally came up with me, trained under the same people, overcame similar challenges...that was a brutal match on my body and I loved every moment of it.
Geoff Penzer: Another question for you, champ. What key takeaways did you have from that match with Owen and how, if at all, will you apply that to your match coming up against Ace Voltage?
Tyler Storm: When you get the chance to test your every limit against someone with the skillset that Owen has, you know how to properly set your endurance levels because he really pushes you past your typical limits. Getting to face off with Owen, it just ultimately prepares me and reminds my body that my mental limitations are a lot less existent. I get reminded of how much further I can go to prove myself, and that is only doubled when it comes to defending this Pride Championship. If I am capable of pushing that far and still beating Owen, I can guarantee that in a situation with more on the line, I can be a much different level of competitor.
Geoff Penzer: Ace, you have certainly proved yourself to be a worthy competitor. Despite your recent championship loss, you've bounced back. Not only did you defeat Max Powers in a Pride Rules match, but you've also beaten AJ Fairchild. How important is it to bounce back and gain that momentum heading into this match with Tyler Storm?
Ace Voltage: Like I said, there was no other outcome on my mind against Fairchild. I needed to win. Facing Max Powers in a Pride Rules match was a must win for me too. I know Tyler takes me seriously, ever since our first encounter. But what if I lost to Powers and Fairchild? I’d be a joke! Even the great Ace Voltage knows you need to win matches to get championship matches. Momentum is everything. I hope you were watching me champ, because AJ Fairchild could be you come A New Odyssey. I’d hate for you to have to tap out. Maybe even twice!
Ace gives a smirk toward Tyler.
Geoff Penzer: Ace, when you look across this table and you see the man that's holding the championship that you want, what do you see?
Ace Voltage: I see a champion. I see a competitor. I see a great wrestler to be honest. But, I also see fear in you, Tyler.
Ace points to Tyler’s eyes.
Ace Voltage: I see fear in your eyes Tyler. I heard your comments about me after I defeated Fairchild. You know that I’m a much better competitor than I was the last time we were in the ring. You admitted it. And that scares you. Because you thought you had me easily beat last time. But this time? It’s a whole new ballgame, mate. No doubt about it you are a fierce competitor. You will be tough to beat. But, I will be tougher to beat. You know there is nothing more dangerous than a desperate man. I’ve held gold here before and I know the champion’s mindset. Tyler, you have everything to lose and I have everything to gain and that scares the crap out of you. We all know how the locker room feels about me and how they feel about you. This match is more than just a championship. You know that your friends will be disappointed in you if you lose, your fans might even turn on you. I can smell fear a mile away and boy I can’t wait to take that championship from you.
Geoff Penzer: Tyler, same question. When you look across this table and you lock eyes with the man that wants to take your championship, what do you see?
Tyler Storm: To be completely honest, I see hunger. I see someone desperate to be in this spot every moment in his career, and I can respect that. I see a person fully intent on doing whatever it takes to beat me, and as a competitor that is beyond exciting. I mean, again, you heard how highly I spoke of you recently my man. Regardless of what anyone thinks of you, good or bad, you have history on your side as a legitimate top tier competitor. Holding a title as long as you did with the Mid-Atlantic Legacy title speaks for itself, regardless of tactics. Here is the issue though, Ace...your hunger and confidence may speak volumes, but I worry about how far that reaches into desperation. I don’t want to put anything into your head on that end per se...I just hope you know full well that if your desperation shines through too much, you fall right into the trap that has been the fall of many a good man going after gold, myself included. That’s where I have to warn. Maybe I’m wrong...but I’d be crazy not to see that with that little spark in your eye.
Geoff Penzer: To become successful in wrestling, one needs to make sacrifices. Tyler here made plenty of sacrifices en route to winning the Pride Championship the first time. When he went to challenge Lowri for the title again, he opted out of competing in the Gold Rush Rumble. He wanted his sole focus on the championship. That's a decision that I'm sure 99.9% of grapplers wouldn't make. So Ace, what sacrifices are you willing to make to become Pride Champion at A New Odyssey??
Ace Voltage: If you have paid attention to my style of wrestling, I will admit that I am a little out of my comfort zone. That match against Max Powers was important for me and a great showcase to Tyler of what I will do to him. Ya know, Pride Rules is all about honor. All about fairness. I’ve used shortcuts in matches. I’ve raked some eyes, kicked some groins and refused to break holds on the ropes. But the beauty of Pride Rules? All of that is illegal. If we’re being real here, I’m sacrificing my style of wrestling that I’ve been accustomed to. I do whatever I can to win and that will have to change. I’ve been training my ass off for this match, different training than before. And you want to sit here and basically congratulate Tyler for not pulling double duty?
Ace makes a confused face.
Ace Voltage: Why make that sacrifice? I don’t believe in taking a night off. When I was the Mid-Atlantic Champion I took pride in the way I represented that title and the rest of the champions in FGA. At Only The Strong Survive I pulled double duty that night. I defended my title against Cassius Reed AND almost won the damn Gold Rush Rumble! You don’t need to make sacrifices when you’re the champ. You are the king of the mountain. Everyone is gunning for you. You don’t get nights off. Since I stepped up to Tyler Storm, my sole focus has been his championship. To say I need to make more sacrifices for it? The only sacrifice I am willing to make is my health. I don’t care if I leave with broken bones or blood running down my face. I will defeat Tyler for the Pride championship. That will be a guarantee, Geoff.
Geoff Penzer: Tyler, similar question. What are you willing to do to retain your championship?
Tyler Storm: Geoff, I could point out several different things I’m willing to do for this beautiful prize on my shoulder, but the fact is the evidence is in the tape what I’m willing to do. Go back to my relentlessness when climbing up the ladder of this company to go after Fujiko, the pain I put my body through when I battled Seth Iser, including the very insane spot I pulled on him that resulted in the both of us unable to continue in our first fight for the Pride Championship. The even further levels I went to overcome Iser, something that holds a lot more weight now with him being FGA World Champion. Every mental and physical gap I had to jump over, I did, when it came to regaining this after losing it to Lowri. I turned down an opportunity at one of the grandest prizes in this damn company to simply fight for this Pride Championship. The only thing I’m not willing to sacrifice at this point is my family, but after that, I’d give anything to be and to remain Pride Champion. This title means that much to me on a personal level and will forever mean that much to me.
Geoff Penzer: Ace, is there one move of Tyler's that concerns you the most?
Ace Voltage: I wouldn’t use the word concern, Geoff. I am not concerned about Tyler and his moveset. I am fully confident I can take anything from him. But, to give an answer to your question, I won’t take the easy way out and say Eye of the Storm. No, let’s go off the board here. I know how Tyler wrestlers, I’ve been watching him for a while. Big moves come out of big matches. This is potentially the biggest match on the card. So Geoff, one thing I will not let happen is let myself be down on the mat in a bad position for too long. The Paranoia Plummet is the one move I’d like to avoid. Tyler, I’ll give you credit. It is a beautiful and devastating moonsault. You may not think I do my homework, but I do. I promise you, if you get to that top rope, you best think twice mate.
Geoff Penzer: Tyler, same question. Is there a move in Ace's arsenal that gives you cause for concern? I don't mean to influence your answer, but Ace has pulled out The London Special lately and has gotten multiple submissions with it.
Tyler Storm: I mean the obvious is obvious for a reason. I’m a guy that does pride myself heavily on not being someone that gives up, but even I can admit the way Ace has mastered that submission hold is heavy cause for concern for me. I’m hopeful I can avoid that move, but honestly, I’m not gonna be surprised if I get caught in that at least once, or even nearly caught in it. Might end up being the way I lose a rope break. We’ll have to see, of course. Though I’d also need to keep my eye of for that Ace of Spades he has. If there is any move that you ever want to avoid, it’s a wrestler’s setup move, and the Ace of Spades is essentially Ace’s setup move. If that is hit, he’s got easy access to move into The London Special or Thunderstruck or whatever else he has in his bag of tricks. I know I’ll have to find a way to properly prepare for that or I’m in for a quick night...and I don’t mean that in a good way at all.
Geoff Penzer: Ace, do you have any final words for Tyler?
Ace Voltage: Finals words, eh?
Ace looks Tyler in the eyes as he speaks.
Ace Voltage: I hope you hold onto that title real tight at night before A New Odyssey. Kiss your title goodnight a few last times. Take some pictures of that title...
Ace points to Tyler’s championship.
Ace Voltage: Because after A New Odyssey? You won’t get that chance anymore. You will have to tell your family, the locker room and your precious fans that you weren’t good enough. That even after all your talking, you couldn’t back it up against me. You will have to live with the fact that you will let your fans down. The same ones that boo me every time I step foot in the ring. And I love it. I love hearing your fans boo me. I love hearing them call me every dirty name they can think of. Do you know why, Ty? Because people don’t boo nobodies, Tyler. I am NOT a nobody. I am Ace Voltage! Future, FGA Pride Champion.
Geoff Penzer: Tyler, do you have any final words for Ace?
Tyler Storm: I could sit here, Ace...and just look past every single word you have to say. I could say every single thing you’ve said is a fake reality, you are way over your head, so on and so forth, but honestly I have to give it to you...you’ve freaking impressed me, man. Legit, my hat is fully off to you for the way you’ve carried yourself in the ring leading up to our match, and even outside the ring compared to your usual demeanor. You’ve slowly but surely earned my respect whether you’ve been looking for it or not. But one thing I do have to make clear, regardless of any impressed feeling or respect I have, I hope you really know that the guy you faced all those months ago that almost beat you in the ring before you scampered away...it’s a different beast when it comes to the battle for Pride. Pride is in my blood at this point and I intend on solidifying that against a top tier challenger such as yourself at A New Odyssey. I do not brag, I do not put down good talent standing before me, I simply state what I know. I’ve done this for too long, put in too many hours of work both pre and post major injury, and gave too much of my life to this ring to have my flame put out when it hasn’t even started bursting into the fire it’s meant to. At A New Odyssey, I want you to understand that I intend fully to beat you, but regardless of the outcome, don’t you dare disrespect this great title by coming in with some sort of shading confidence. Put in the work, come to fight, let’s go show the world who two of the best damn wrestlers in FGA are right now, and may the better man win. I fully intend for that better man to be...AND...STILL...your FGA Pride Champion...Tyler Storm.
Geoff Penzer: Thank you for your time, gentlemen.