Judgement Day Promo Thread

[marileeg17]

FPW.com EXCLUSIVE

Dario and Haych are in Marcus' private locker room, while unbeknownst to them, a camera is rolling outside. The door is locked so no audio is picked up but Dario and Haych look at each other before looking at the empty space in Marcus' trophy case where his Young Lions Cup used to rest. Dario looks especially nervous as he looks down at his phone. We can't see what he's looking at just yet. A few moments later, Marcus storms into the room and in his fury, doesn't notice the camera and also slams the door closed too hard that it creaks back open just a little bit, allowing the camera to pick up the conversation.

"You said on the phone that it's gone," Marcus says before looking at the empty trophy case and demanding answers. "It's a fuckin trophy Dario, it didn't just get up and walk away. How the hell is it gone?!"

Dario backs up, never having seen Marcus this angry before.

D: It's, uh, it's like what I said. Haych and I came back after the Ring of Honor thing and I don't know, the door was locked. But when we came in, the cup was gone and this was in it's place.

Dario hands Marcus a small piece of paper that reads: "By the time you notice this note, it will be too late."

MAJ: This some kind of joke? So, so what? Someone stole the Young Lions Cup? Well do your damn jobs then, find out who, beat the shit out of them and bring it back!

H: Uh Dario, Marcus, you might want to see this.

MAJ: Shut up Haych, I don't have time for this. Someone broke into my locker room and stole something of mine. Put your phone away and focus!

Haych chuckles a bit drawing more of Marcus' ire.

H: Fine, I'll put it away. But I guess that means you don't want to see what happened to your precious cup.

Haych extends his phone and Marcus swipes it out of his hand, watching alongside Dario. You can see the moment his face drops when Graham Baker smashes the Young Lions Cup with a sledgehammer. As the video ends, Marcus walks across the room, his head in his hands for a few seconds. As he removes his hands, his face shows nothing but pure anger. He then walks back to the other side of the room, pushes up against Dario and grabs his collar.

MAJ: HOW THE HELL DID YOU LET THIS HAPPEN?!

Pinned against the wall, Dario, normally stronger than Marcus is having a hard time escaping his grip until Haych pulls the two of them apart.

MAJ: I gave you both one damn job. Time after time you failed to win back the tag team championships but you begged me to stay with TakeOver. You promised me you'd do better. I gave you one job and you couldn't even fuckin' do that right!

Marcus begins to pace again as Haych and Dario consider their next move.

D: Look man, we're sorry this happened but it's just a trophy right? You've always said that titles and trophies and belts are just props, that they don't matter to you. If you're worried about Houston giving you crap, I wouldn't be. Baker destroyed Houston's little cup not you. So he can't punish you for it or whatever. It's gonna be fine and Baker's got a receipt coming to him, don't you worry.

Marcus looks shocked at how lightly Dario seems to be taking this.

MAJ: Of course that trophy meant something you no-talent, no-brained idiot! I got into wrestling to be the best and that trophy, dammit, that trophy was the first thing I'd ever won in this industry. It proved I'm the best. It was validation that my mouth wasn't writing checks that my ass wasn't prepared to cash. And that fuckin' garbage wrestler lost in the first round. That cup led me to challenging for the championship. That cup started it all. So yeah, it's a fuckin prop that I could pay a couple hundred bucks to replace but that's not the point. And if you don't get that, if you don't understand why this is big fuckin' deal, then you have no business being here.

D: But Marcus, you always told us that it wasn't the physical hardware that matters, it was what that hardware represented. You're still always gonna be the first winner of the YLC. Not Baker, not Houston, nobody else can take that away from you.

Marcus looks at Dario, slightly calmer.

MAJ: Don't tell me what I said. I know what I said. But that doesn't change the fact that I just had my property stolen and defaced because of what? Because I had you two beat up a couple of indie wrestlers? Baker claims to love this industry so much but he doesn't know a damn about how it works. But he will now. Because this doesn't go unpunished. That cup may have been a prop but it was my damn prop and he destroyed it. And I can't even pay him back by destroying his little indie championships because they are already destroyed. Because, ya know, they were never anything to begin with. I'm not gonna waste my time turning garbage titles into bigger piles of garbage. They mean something to him sure, but people seem to mean more.

Marcus shows a slight grin as an idea strikes him.

MAJ: Boys, you've got one shot to redeem yourself and here's what I want you to---

Marcus pauses as from the corner of his eye he notices the locker room door is open, but still misses the camera which was strategically placed. Marcus shuts the door as he tells the Invaders what he wants them to do, audio of which we can no longer hear.

[noname1525]

"However, it won't be a one-on-one match. I was impressed with both Jace Mason and Henry Harrison in the Dead Man's Chest Match. Therefore, I wish for each of them to also challenge for the Hardcore Title, making the match a fatal-four-way match.”

Jace was re-watching Jim Houston’s newest video announcing the card for Judgment Day. He paused the video after that line and took a deep breath, nodding to himself. He turns to look at the camera.

“Well there we have it. The FPW hardcore championship. To be honest, not the title I pictured myself challenging for. I haven’t had a lot of experience with hardcore wrestling, heck, even when I participated in that hardcore battle royal during the Free-1, all I did was swing a kendo stick around. And given how outclassed I was when I first arrived here in FPW, I’d wanted to get better at what I already knew how to do before I learned a whole new style of wrestling. But the days of Jace Mason passing up opportunities are over, I’ve missed out on a lot of things while I improved my in-ring skills over the past few months. But there’s only so much training and improvement I can do, it’s time to test myself. I tested myself in the Dead Man’s Chest ladder match, and now I’m going to push myself out of my comfort zone when I challenge for the FPW Hardcore championship.”

“And that brings me to my opponents in the match. First, the champion, Tommy Storm. I’ve wrestled Tommy before, and although I was unsuccessful in that attempt, that experience might give me an edge over my other competition, who have never faced Tommy. But the Tommy Storm who will be defending in this match is very different from the Tommy Storm I faced in July, so perhaps my experience won’t be as helpful as I thought. Either way, I’m looking forward to tying up with him again.”

“Next, John Grimm, another man I’ve faced before. Before I say anything else, John, congratulations on the recovery. I haven’t crossed paths directly with the Queendom yet, but everything I’ve seen about them has been vicious, so I’m glad you were able to come back within just a few months. Now, as I mentioned, I’ve faced John before, but that was a very competitive match, and I feel like it could have gone either way. I haven't seen what he can do with a hardcore stipulation in place, but I'm sure he will be dangerous, and will make the match very interesting.”

“And last, and maybe least, I haven't seen enough of him to tell, we have Henry Harrison. Henry is new to FPW, but our paths have already crossed during that ladder match. And from what I saw from him then, I'm looking forward to a chance to go one on one with him. Hopefully he shows more of what he has to offer at Judgement Day.”

“And then there's me of course. The Eternal Student. I tried to explode onto the scene here in FPW, but that explosion fizzled out after just two matches. And so I ducked out of the spotlight, improving my skills and throwing more wood on that fire. And now that fire is going to burn Tommy Storm's hardcore title reign to the ground. To everyone I've mentioned here today, I’ll see you at Judgement Day.”

[Jim Houston]

A video appears on freedomprowrestling.com. Sato and The Guardians of Strong Style stand in a ring somewhere in Japan. Sato begins to speak, while the Guardians stand stoically behind him.

"One week ago, Guardians of Strong Style become number one contenders. Guardians of Strong Style defeat two good teams. Friendmigos gave us tough challenge. Invaders used clever tactics. But neither team able to out do strong style. Takahara-san and Tchyukiro-san able to take anything Friendmigos or Invaders try to give. And now, Guardians of Strong Style are ready to take Tag Team Championships. Bobby O. Jack Sevren. Both excellent wrestlers. Both excellent singles wrestlers. Not a team. Never truly a team. Guardians of Strong Style trained here. This building. This ring. Takahara-san began just one week before Tchyukiro-san. They train together. They live together. They grow together. They become team together. All across Japan, Guardians of Strong Style prove they are best team. They face many talented wrestlers. Many are teams but many are singles put together. Guardians never lose to singles. Team is too strong. Bobby and Jack not good enough team to defeat Guardians of Strong Style. As singles, yes, they maybe better. But as team. No. Guardians of Strong Style soon to be new Tag Team Champions. And then FPW will see. Strong style not be stopped. Guardians not be stopped. Not by any team. We respect Bobby and Jack, but we beat Bobby and Jack."

[Jim Houston]

Dasha Banks stands with Jim Houston.

DB: Mr, Houston, it seems that Judgement Day has garnered quite the level of attention from fans and wrestlers alike. How do you feel the card is shaping up?

JH: I feel that this has the potential to be not just our best show of the year, but the best show of the year anywhere in The United States of America. We have a great main event, the title matches will be amazing and there's not a match on the card that I'm not looking forward to.

DB: Speaking of the main event, Graham Baker and Marcus Allen Jones' rivalry has become very heated. Does that concern you?

JH: Yes, quite frankly, it does. I've already spoken with Graham Baker about his senseless destruction of the Young Lions' Cup. He will be ensuring that we have another in time for next year's tournament, and he will be funding the full costs. As for Marcus, I still don't like the tone with which he speaks about this company, myself or, more importantly, the championship around his waist. However, I feel fairly accustomed to his way of speaking by now. I will say this though. Baker and Jones have both set out challenges for stipulations, or at least have claimed that they will do so in due time. However, this match will remain a simple, pure wrestling match. One fall to a finish. Normal rules apply. If Graham Baker is to become the top guy here in FPW, he must prove that he can do it without any gimmicks. As for Marcus, he too must demonstrate his ability in a one on one contest. I will not have our biggest match of the year end I'm controversy.

DB: You also mentioned at Dead Man' Chest a few changes to the FPW schedule. Is that finalised yet?

JH: Its very close. The announcement will be made at Judgement Day,

DB: And finally, there's been a countdown clock on FPW programming counting down to some time during the Judgement Day show. I presume that you know what the clock is signifying? And if so, can you give us any details?

JH: All I'll say is that I think when the timer hits zero, everyone will want to pay attention.

[The_Aviator_GB]

We enter on Graham Baker sitting in a chair in a room, a light swinging above his head, as per usual. The Free-1 Briefcase sits at his feet, and two shapes loom behind him. Baker speaks first.

First of all, let me formally apologize for what I did to the Freedom Pro Young Lions' Cup. I acknowledge that the decision to destroy it was a foolish one made in the heat of the moment, and since then I've regretted it and thought on my actions. I know Houston and Marcus are furious about it, and I know by destroying it I spit in the face of every other man who participated in the tournament to win it, win or lose. I'll be paying out of my own pocket to replace it, of course, and I assure you that by the time the next Young Lions' Cup Tournament rolls around, we will have a better, fully repaired trophy. 

Before I get back to that, however, I do want to question-how did that feel, Marcus? To have something stolen from you without your knowledge, out of your control, and then violently destroyed in a place you felt dear? Did it enrage you like it enraged me when you injured Gresham and Sabre, not just because they were supposed to train with me, but for the implication of what would happen if I continued to pursue you? Did it make you worry even further about the lengths I would go to to destroy you-as you were clearly worried already, taking out two of the men I hold as close friends and treasured rivals since you knew you couldn't beat me if I was at peak conditioning-and did it give you fear? Have you somehow convinced yourself that you'll be able to get back at me in some way, shape, or form, cooking up some plans with your Invader friends who couldn't win their titles back if their careers depended on it?

Or have you given into the fear that you should rightfully feel toward me? Do you realize, now, the lengths i'll go to not only win that title off of you and take it back to where it needs to go, but also how thoroughly i'm going to destroy you in the ring at Judgment Day? Do you realize that you'll be humiliated, not only in your 'home promotion', but in your home city, in front of fans who've seen you grow and evolve from a promising wrestler to a sniveling piece of shit? 

I really should thank you, Marcus, because you've shown me two things-one, that I need to tighten up my methodology and learn from people not so easily found, and two, that there's a fire inside me burning so brightly that I didn't know existed until you took out Gresham and Sabre. I know you expected a pouting promo talking about how 'unfair' life was, that I should just bow to you and TakeOver now, but I bow to none. At Judgment Day, in a ring, one fall, no stipulations or bullshit, I'm going to lock in the Emergency Landing until you tap, snap, or pass the fuck out.

And I won't stop until you do any of the three.

Your days are numbered, Marcus. I'm coming for you.

[Jim Houston]

MDE is in his gym. He grunts his way through several sit ups, the gleam of sweat glistening on his body. A door can be heard opening off screen, and heels can be heard walking into the room. MDE turns his head to look at the person walking towards him but he doesn't stop training. His personal assistant, Rachel, walks into shot.

R: I just got a message...

MDE pauses for a moment.

MDE: Is it her?

R: It's her.

MDE: And?

R: She's coming. She gets into Heathrow tomorrow. I've booked her onto a train to be down here by 7pm.

MDE sits up and props himself up on a weight bench.

MDE: Excellent. That means you'd better clear out for a while. If this plan is going to work, it needs to just be me and her.

Rachel looks uncomfortable for a few moments.

R: This plan...

MDE: Its the same plan we agreed last month. Nothing has changed.

R: But when we did it I didn't... I didn't really think we'd be going through with it. I'm... I'm uncomfortable.

MDE: Be that as it may, the plan is in action and it's not going to stop. Berry Bishop is coming to England.

[veggieleezy]

*Jerry Bishop, in his ring gear, approaches the women’s locker room to check on Berry. A crew member stops him at the door.*

CM: I’m sorry, Jerry, but I can’t let you in.

JB: Right, sorry, forgot proper behavior for a second. Haven’t really been thinking clearly lately. Hang on.

*Jerry walks out of frame and clears his throat. He re-enters the frame wearing a top hat, a white tie, and tails and addresses the crew member, doing his best Cary Grant impression.*

JB: Forgive my interruption, madame, but would it be possible for you to see your way clear to permit me to pay a visit to my sibling, Beatrice Bishop, and see to her wellbeing and temperament?

CM: I’m really sorry, Jerry, but I can’t let you in there. First off, I’m not really sure the rest of the women’s division likes you very much-

JB: A valid, albeit somewhat disheartening, reasoning.

CM: -But Berry... well... she’s not here.

JB: *dropping the impression* She’s not?

CM: No, she left a note a while ago saying she’s going off to “Ol’ Foggy Town”, whatever that means.

JB: Can I read that, please?

*The crew member hands Jerry the note, and he reads it thoroughly.*

JB: Ol’ Foggy Town. ...London.

CM: I’m sorry?

JB: Our dad was a huge big band fan, and while I can’t speak to Berry’s upbringing, I grew up listening to singers like Sammy Davis Jr, Tony Bennett, Dean Martin, and Frank Sinatra. “Ol’ Foggy Town” means London. It’s a reference to the song “A Foggy Day (In London Town)”.

CM: How did you pronounce those parentheses just now?

JB: *disregarding the question* So you’re telling me that Berry’s on her way to England right now.

CM: Well, um, I suppose so. Are you okay with this?

JB: ...you know what, to be honest with you and everyone else, I’m not sure. Berry may be my baby sister, but she’s her own person. She can go and have a vacation if she wants. She has a big match coming up, but if this is something she thinks will help who am I to judge.

CM: So you’re also okay with her training with MDE?

*Jerry is taken aback*

JB: She’s *what*?

CM: Yeah, I thought that she mentioned it. She’s going to London because MDE offered to train her.

*Jerry stands himself straight as an arrow, staring off into the middle distance, taking slow, deep breaths.*

CM: ...Jerry? ...is everything okay?

*Jerry takes a few more deep breaths before redirecting his attention to the crew member.*

JB: Yes, I’m sorry, forgive me, I tend to drift off from time to time. What was your name again, I’m sorry I didn’t ask for it earlier.

CM: Eva.

JB: Yes, of course, a lovely name. Now if you’ll excuse me, Eva, I think I might have a transatlantic call to make.

*Jerry unconsciously swishes his tails behind him, tilts his top hat over his eyes, and walks off camera.*

CME: Is it always like this with him?

*Ted Crewmember responds from behind the camera*

TC: Oh man, no way, he’s almost never this serious. You haven’t run into him before now?

CME: Honestly, he hasn’t come by the women’s locker room that much before now.

TC: Understandable. Berry’s the only woman I can think of that can stand him. Sorry, Eva, I’ve gotta catch up with Dasha.

*Camera fades to black*

[Jim Houston]

MDE stands in a warm jacket in the foyer of a medium-sized rail station. Announcements play to say that the 19:32 train from London Paddington has been delayed by twelve minutes. MDE shuffles his feet and looks at his watch with an annoyed grimace on his face. As time passes, a few people start coming through the ticket barriers. MDE scrutinises each of them as they pass him, before a look which can't quite decide on confusion or annoyance crosses his features .

MDE looks at a young woman, Berry Bishop, who bumbles towards the ticket barriers. She carries three cases, one in each hand and one under her arm, causing her to knock into most people as she passes them. She offers apologies to everyone as she passes by, whether or not she hits them, before coming to the barriers and pausing, dropping the bag from under her arm and putting the other down to rummage for her ticket. Out of her pocket comes a very large bag of candy, a book titled 'How to Speak British' and a notebook marked 'nicknames' before she pulls out her crumpled ticket.

MDE watches on with bemusement as Berry tries to juggle all three bags while managing to put the ticket through the machine. After a few attempts, an older lady offers to take her bag so that Berry can come through, and she gives her a hug in response, much to the lady's embarrassment.

Once Berry has made it through, thanked the lady again and reorganised her bags, she spots MDE and runs towards him. Dropping her bags, she wraps her arms around him and gives him a hug, which he doesn't return.

MDE: You're late.

Berry looks at him for a moment disappointedly.

Berry: Oh... the train... it was...

MDE: They always are. Come on. I'm parked out front. We'll get you home. I'll take that.

MDE picks up one of the bags and strides away, leaving Berry with two obviously heavier ones. She stares after him for a moment before snapping out of her thoughts and following.

A short car journey later, MDE and Berry pull up in front of a run-down door on a street with more houses than it seems to have room for. They get out of the car, MDE opening the trunk to let Berry get her things. As she closes it behind her, he turns a key in the door and pushes it open, flicking a light on and calling her through. Berry follows, entering a dimly-lit living room populated with a small sofa, a table piled with papers, a television and a book shelf with a few books and ornaments.

MDE: It's not much. I barely do anything here other than sleep. I spend most of my time at my gym. That's where we'll train. It's a two-up, two-down, so there's only one bedroom. You have the bed. I'll sleep on the sofa down here.

Berry: No! I couldn't do that! I'll take the sofa. Besides, I'm a lot smaller than you so I don't need so much room. I'll be fine down here.

Berry drops her bags and sits down on the sofa, wriggling a little to try and get comfortable.

MDE: You get settled. I'll clear the stuff off the table so you have somewhere to put things. If you get hungry, the kitchen's through there. Help yourself to whatever you want. If we run out of anything make a note on the fridge and my p- and I'll get some on the way back from the gym. Bathroom's upstairs. There's plenty of water for a hot shower whenever you want it, so don't worry about rationing it. Anything else you need?

Berry looks around, a satisfied look on her face.

Berry: Nope. It's cozy. I like it. So how long can I train with you for?

MDE looks thoughtful.

MDE: Well I've cancelled anything but recurring bookings from now until I fly to Chicago on the Thursday before Judgement Day, so I'm only out on two shows next weekend. You can stay as long as you like. The longer you stay, the more chance you have of winning the Women's Championship.

Berry: So if I wanted to stay until you go to Chicago, I could just come with you?

MDE: Yeah I guess.

Berry beams.

Berry: Thank you so much! This is one of the nicest things anyone's done for me. And if there's anything I can do in return- anything at all- just say and I'll do it!

MDE smiles.

MDE: I'm sure I'll think of something... You'd better get some rest. You've had a lot of travelling today and the jet lag can be a killer. You get set down here and I'll be upstairs sorting some financial stuff for the gym. If you need anything, just come on up.

MDE sweeps all of the papers off the table and gathers them up before turning to go upstairs. Berry's eyes follow him before she looks around and sighs with satisfaction.

Berry: I'm so going to beat Arty and Lizzie.

[noname1525]

A video was uploaded to the Freedom Pro Wrestling website, showing a montage of Jace working out and training, scored by an upbeat but intense music track. After a few shots of him doing various exercises, Jace began to speak in voice-over.

“We are now just two weeks away from Judgment Day, and my competitors have been oddly quiet considering the effect this match could have on our careers. But while they may have been keeping themselves out of sight, they have not been out of mind. I’ve been training my ass off in order to prepare for this match. I’ve pushed myself to my limits,” A clip of Jace slowly rising from a squat, a barbell on his shoulders. “And sometimes, maybe a little past those limits.” A clip of Jace, covered in sweat, attempting a pull-up, but he only made it halfway before lowering himself back down. “But even when I’ve gone past my limits, I’m always back the next day, ready to do it all over again. And it’s not limited to mere workouts, no, I’ve gotten into a ring almost every day, either enhancing what I already do,” A clip of Jace hitting a DDT on a trainer. “Or beginning to add something new to my arsenal.” A clip of Jace connecting with a wrecking ball dropkick to a trainer on the outside of the ring, followed by a clip of him ducking a clothesline, then lifting the trainer into an air raid crash position. “I have done everything I can to ensure that I’m in the best shape possible come Judgement Day. But I’ve not just been training my body to achieve this, I’ve also been training my mind.” A clip of Jace sitting in front of a computer and watching Sabu leap from the ropes to deliver a legdrop through a table. “Throughout the many years of professional wrestling, there have been countless matches with hardcore stipulations, and while I can’t watch them all, I’ve been studying as many as I can.” Another shot of Jace in front of a computer, this time watching Aleister Black drive Adam Cole back-first into a pair of chairs. “While I may not have as much hardcore experience as my opponents, I’ve managed to come up with a few ideas for our match in two weeks." The music began to build to a crescendo. "And in two weeks, I’m going to do everything I can to walk out of Judgement Day as champion.”

The climax of the song arrived as more, shorter shots of Jace’s training began to appear on screen. There was a shot of him doing push ups, followed by a shot of him diving from the top rope, then a shot of him watching Mick Foley get speared through a flaming table. Then the music began to fade out on a slow-motion shot of Jace executing Extra Credit on a trainer.

[kingclutch]

*"This Fire" plays as Clutch McCloud, Russ Bolt, and Sir Richard Crowley emerge* They are all fairly serious looking as they make their way to the ring. Clutch lackadaisically high fives a few fans. There is a distinct look on his face that is heart is not fully in this today.

Clutch grabs a mic and begins to speak.

CM: "You know when Russ here told me that The Invaders sank so low as to attempt to go after Danica, I was truly speechless. But when I watched it back...again...and again...and AGAIN there was only ONE THING that I could feel: anger. Anger at myself for not paying attention to my surroundings...anger at The Invaders that they would stoop so low, proving once again the pieces of shit that they are. IF your intention was to get my attention: well Dario and Haych you have it. And I saw your little stunt at Ring of Honor and boys you don't scare me a damn bit. See, what you've done is you've made this personal. You take McCloud and Bolt and you put our backs against the wall, we'll fight back. The Storm will rage and at Judgment Day, you will regret ever crossing paths with me. Let's say we do this another way: The Invaders vs. The Raging Storm in a Steel Cage Match! *at this the crowd erupts* The ball is in your court Invaders." *Clutch drops the mic*

RB: It will be on, boys. Clutch and I are going to turn you every way but loose. By the end of this, you will be begging like little doggies for us to stop. You will beg for mercy. You will look up and shout "STOP!" And we will whisper..."NO" *Russ drops his mic as they walk away*

[kingclutch]

Clutch is by himself in the backstage area. He is making a call with the phone on speaker. (Unbeknownst to him, an FPW cameraman has made their way back)

Danica: Hello?

Cltuch: Hey Dani

DJ: Oh Steve, how are you?

CM: Better now.

DJ: That's good. Heard about you tonight, throwing down the challenge to The Invaders

CM: Yeah? What did you think?

DJ: It was really good. I can't wait to see you.

CM: I really wish you could be here tonight, Dani.

DJ: I know. Me too. Just do me a favor okay?

CM: Anything for you.

DJ: Kick their fucking asses.

CM: *laughs* Yes ma'am.

*Someone calls for Clutch offscreen*

CM: Hey, I have to go, okay? I'll talk to you really soon. *Clutch looks around* I miss you.

DJ: I miss you, too.

*Clutch hangs up*

[Jim Houston]

"See that?"

"What?"

"Look at her legs. Her stance. Her weight distribution. What do you see?"

"Ohhhh. She's putting more weight onto her outside leg."

"And what does that mean for you?"

"Her balance is off. She's leaning back so if I explode backwards, I take her down. The impact breaks the hold and gives me a chance to lock her up on the mat. Is that right?"

MDE and Berry Bishop sit around a monitor in MDE's office.

MDE: Good. You've got it. You have to know what to look for. Start with the feet. Ninety percent of technique happens with the feet. That's where the balance comes from, that's where the ability to react comes from. Bad feet and you can be picked apart. You know that after this afternoon. Tomorrow we're going to look at every match Karlson and Evans have ever had and we're going to pick apart everything. Their technique, their tendencies, their ability to read what their opponent is going to do, physical and mental strengths and weaknesses. Once we have that, we start specific training for each of them. After a full break down, we bring in similar wrestlers and you face them over and over again, honing your game plan until it's perfect. It takes time and patience: you'll get it wrong much more often that you'll get it right. But once it's right, you're in a position to win. That'll do for now.

MDE switches off the monitor and stands. He stretches as Berry rubs her eyes.

Berry: Sounds like a lot... but we can do it. We make a great team!

MDE gives Berry a dismissive look.

MDE: I don't do teams.

Berry: But we're a perfect team. I've even been thinking of team names! How about Simply Great Bombshells?

MDE: No.

Berry: Okay... how about The Technician and The Kicks?

MDE: No.

Berry: The Odd Couple?

MDE: No.

Berry: MD-Berr-E?

MDE: No.

Berry: Come on! All great teams have names. We need a name that says we kick ass but have fun at the same time...

MDE opens the door before turning back to Berry.

MDE: Look. I invited you here to train. It's a purely professional arrangement that we're both getting something from. We're not a team. We're not going to become a team. When we get to Chicago, we're both there to win our matches. No more than that. Afterwards, we go back to our own separate lives. Now I'm going to shower. Afterwards we'll go back to the house and get some food.

MDE is halfway through the door when Berry calls to him.

Berry: Wait... not that I don't like your cooking... I do, but... it's Saturday night. Why don't we go out somewhere? It could be fun. We could get dressed up, go out to one of the fish and chip restaurants I keep hearing about. Maybe go to a British pub? Just because it's professional it doesn't mean it can't be fun.

MDE looks at her for a few seconds.

MDE: You do what you like. Your evenings here are yours to spend however you wish. Just make sure you get back before I go to bed because I'm not coming down to let you in.

He turns and goes through the door but Berry calls after him again.

Berry: Wait wait wait! Okay then... final offer. No pub. Just dinner. You said that you're getting something out,of this but I don't see what you're getting from it at all. At least let me buy you dinner to say thank you. It doesn't even have to be that fun if you don't want it to...

MDE sighs.

MDE: If it'll keep you quiet, we'll go for dinner.

Berry: Yay!

MDE: There's The Fish and Chip Plaice about five minutes from here. We can go there and then we go straight home. If you even mention the idea of going to a pub of all places, I go back home and the door stays locked. Understand?

Berry: Aye aye captain!

A little while later, MDE and Berry emerge from MDE's car. MDE is still dressed in workout gear but Berry has changed, and is now dressed a lot more appropriately for a meal out, wearing a purple hoodie with lightning bolts down the sides. They walk into the restaurant, which doubles up as a take-away, and sit at one of the plastic tables.

Berry: Is this what all fish and chip restaurants are like?

MDE: This one is. I haven't been to all of them.

Berry: I thought it would be a bit more... no phone boxes, no red buses or black cabs... This isn't what wrestling has prepared me to expect at all...

Berry looks very thoughtful for a few moments while MDE regards her with a detached look.

Berry: Okay, so, I have a few questions. I thought everyone here would be so polite and friendly, but most people don't make eye contact with me... and those who do... I don't really want to speak to. I thought it would be all posh English accents and handkerchiefs tucked into breast pockets, but it's more... cussing and grease stains. Is this what England is?

MDE: Pretty much. It's what it's like around here anyway. What Americans think England is isn't what England is. So what you do want to eat?

Berry looks confused.

Berry: This is a fish and chip restaurant... I thought it served fish and chips...

MDE: It does, but you can get more than that. Look at the menu and then we need to go and order.

Berry looks at the menu and seems confused. This lasts for quite some time as MDE looks increasingly impatient, rolling his eyes and checking his watch.

Berry: Okay... I think I'll have some fish... and some chips.

MDE sighs.

Berry: What are you having? Do we go to the counter to order? Do we pay first or pay afterwards? Do they add the tip to the bill or do we add one ourselves? Why are they eating on paper and using cardboard to pick up the fries?

MDE: Just stop talking for a minute. I'll have a jumbo sausage and chips. Order at the counter and pay when you get there. No tip. They'll give you your food pretty quickly.

Berry readies herself and then marches towards the counter. An older, larger woman stands behind it.

Woman: Yes, my lovely?

Berry (soundicing slightly like Judi Dench): Oh... um... good day, my lady. I wish to make a purchase of some food from your... fine establishment.

Woman: Wha' d'you wan' sweetheart?

Berry: Could I please order one fish with chips please and one jumbo sausage please with chips as well... please.

Woman: No problem, my love. Let's see now... that's one fish, one jumbo and two chips. That'll-

Berry: I'm sorry... can we... please... have more than two chips? Just two won't be enough.

The woman looks at Berry for a split second before bursting out laughing.

Woman: You're a card, aren't you, love? We don' get many accents like tha' round 'ere. Anyway, tha'll be eight pound fifty.

Berry carefully counts out the money, adding the last ten pence in pennies, before handing it over, awkwardly dropping several coins onto the counter.

Berry: Sorry... I-

Woman: Don' worry, love. I got it. I got it.

The woman puts the money in the till and then get to work on the orders. Berry watches carefully and breathes a sigh of relief as a large portion of chips is shovelled onto each order. After they're handed over, Berry returns to the table where MDE has been sat watching her. As always, his expression is unreadable.

Berry: I hope it's right... I think I ordered properly.

MDE: It's fine.

MDE opens his up and starts eating, staring off into the middle distance as he does. Berry is a little reluctant, a few times almost saying something and then thinking better of it.

[veggieleezy]

*Camera comes up on the League of Friendmigos in their HQ. Matt Dwyer sits with his feet propped on Jim Houston’s desk, noodling with Eddie Van Halen’s “Spanish Fly” with a cold one close at hand. Super Che Junior perfectly balances himself in One-legged Prayer Pose on a yoga ball. Jerry Bishop, with his pet bear cub Fozzie nuzzled at his feet, sits in a bean bag chair, staring at his cell phone which bears a message from his sister Berry.*

-“Hi, Jerry! I’m off to Ol’ Foggy Town with MDE to train! He’s gonna help me get ready for my big match against Artie and Lizzie! Isn’t that just so nice of him? I’ll be sure to bring back some marmalade and a stuffed Paddington for Fozzie and say hi to the real Paddington for all of us! See ya! Hugs and stuff! -Berry”

MD: You worry too much, buddy. She’s just going over there to train. She’s up for the first ever FPW Women’s Championship, she’s gotta be at the top of her game.

SCJ: Sí, hermano, you wouldn’t want her to miss una oportunidad come esta to improve herself.

JB: I know, you guys are right. She’s come so far, and she’s only going to get better. Of course I want her to succeed. But... She could’ve come to us, you know? Any of us, or Thompson, or Clutch, or Bobby and Jack, or even Azazel. Instead, she went off with *him*. The guy I’m facing at the same event where she has her golden opportunity. The guy who believes everything I do- everything she does- what *we* do as Friendmigos is worthless.

MD: I don’t think that’s why she went with him.

*Jerry stands bolt upright, blank-faced, staring at Matt. Che dismounts the yoga ball with a perfect moonsault and eases his friend down.*

MD: WHOA, whoa, steady, buddy, I didn’t mean it like that.

SCJ: Tranquilo, Jerry, easy, easy.

MD: I just meant, well, maybe Berry went with MDE because he can give her something we can’t.

*Jerry starts again, but Che eases him off.*

MD: WHAT I MEAN, is that he’s got a mean streak, Jerry. And to be perfectly honest, you don’t. None of us do, when you think about it. He can teach her how to tap into a different kind of energy than we can. That might be the right thing for her.

SCJ: Berry is a good girl, Jerry. She knows why she chose la vida de la lucha. I don’t think spending some time in London will make her forget that.

JB: *taking some deep breaths* You guys are right. She can make her own choices. Maybe I’m being a little too protective. But can you really blame me for worrying?

SCJ: Claro que no. We get you, Jerry.

MD: Don’t sweat it, buddy. We’re with you all the way.

*Matt transitions into “Happy Trails”. The Friendmigos warm up their voices and start to harmonize a chord. Jim Houston enters his office and simply sighs.*

JH: Evening, lads.

JB: Oh, perfect timing, Mr. Houston! We could use a baritone harmony!

[Jim Houston]

Muffled voices can be heard in the dark.

"Hurry up!"

"I can't quite get it in... I can't find the-"

"Come on! I'm freezing!"

"Alright. It's in... let's just..."

The sound of a door opening can be heard before a light illuminates MDE's living room, which shows evidence of Berry everywhere, from the neatly folded duvet on the sofa to the pile of clothes on the table. He and Berry Bishop enter before Berry drops her bag and rushes towards the heater in the corner.

Berry: That's better! It's got so cold suddenly.

MDE: This is England in winter. What did you expect?

Berry: Well... this... I guess. But it's still cold!

MDE moves towards the stairs and starts to climb.

Berry: Wait! Why don't we... you know... hang out for a while? It's only nine thirty. You can be going to bed yet?

MDE pauses and turns.

MDE: Hang out? And what exactly would we be doing? Braiding each other's hair and talking about the boys we fancy? This isn't a sleep over. You make yourself settled and I'll see you in the morning.

MDE turns and starts to climb again, but this time Berry rushes after him and grabs his arm. MDE turns, looking confused.

MDE: What are you-

Berry: Come on! I've been staying here for a few days now but I hardly feel like I know you.

MDE: We've spent the last few days rolling around a ring together. What else is there to know?

Berry: Well... how about telling me your favourite... animal? Mine are pandas.

MDE looks disinterested.

MDE: Is that what passes for interesting conversation with you? You want me to sit down here with you and talk about our favourite animals? What next? Favourite colours? Favourite food? Favourite type of earring?

Berry: Well... actually next I was going to ask you about your family. You know Jerry so I should know about one of your family members. Do you have a brother?

MDE: No.

Berry: A sister?

MDE: No I-

Berry: Then tell me about your parents. Do they live nearby? Do you see them a lot? Are you going to spend Christmas with them?

MDE: I don't want to talk about my parents.

Berry: Come on! There must be more to you than wrestling. I know you want people to see you as this big, scary, wrestl-y, machine-guy, but you're more than that... you didn't have to help me but you did it anyway. You could be training yourself for your match but you're training me more than you train yourself. You've got depths just like everyone else. Maybe if didn't keep hiding them, things could be different for you.

MDE: In my life, I care about two things. Number one is being the best wrestler I can be. Number two is not giving myself any excuse for failure. The two goals fit together very well. Anything else is just a distraction from those goals.

Berry: So all you care about is wrestling?

MDE: Yes. Exactly. Which is why trying to probe inside me for things that aren't there are a waste of your time. Spend some time going over your notes and tomorrow-

Berry: But don't you ever, like, want more? I get that you love wrestling. I love it too. But there's so much more to life. There's friends, there's love, there's laughter, there's cute videos of panda cubs sneezing. I mean... don't you ever get lonely? You don't talk about family. I haven't seen any friends. You don't seem to have anyone come to your gym apart from the people who you seem to really not like much. Don't you ever want someone who cares about you or...

MDE looks at Berry for a few moments.

MDE: Good night, Berry.

He turns and walks up the stairs, leaving Berry to watch him disappear. She stares up the stairs for a few moments before sitting down and opening her notebook with a sigh.

[The_Aviator_GB]

The video package starts with the Free-1 logo playing, before archival footage starts playing from different promotions, showing such great names as Bruno Sammartino, Hulk Hogan, Shawn Michaels, Steve Austin, Misawa, and many others holding their promotions' titles high. The reigns start to get more recent-Cena, a TNA-era Styles, Okada, Reigns-before cutting to an image of the FPW title while 'Let's Go' by Run The Jewels starts to play. 

Anarchists put flame to a tire, walk 'round with fire 'round necks,

A clip shows MAJ holding the FPW title up in the air after he and The Invaders beat Adam Thompson down before their match.

Mankind gotta deal with a new kinda mind i'm a quick death wrapped in a threat,

Another clip shows MAJ pinning Azazel after cheating in the finish to the brutal Gauntlet for the FPW title, The Invaders coming out to celebrate as he does so.

Tell these fuzzy little weak-hearted bunnies to back up or get wet,

Another clip shows Marcus beating Saturn in brutal fashion in the Free-1, then repeating the process with MDE.

Nevermind where you draw the line, I've got a mind for crime, it's all disrespect.

The next clip shows Marcus making Adam Thompson tap out to the sharpshooter, then Azazel passing out, and finally with Clutch across the ring from him.

Pain is a game, then you better run with it,

Marcus drills Clutch with a brutal superkick.

Have fun with it, enjoy your suffering.

A clip of Clutch being defeated fades and is replaced by various wrestling magazines lined with Marcus's face, the captions reading 'Best in the world?' and 'Best pro athlete in Wrestling!' as Marcus wears a cocky grin, but the song stalls for a moment as the magazines flash and are suddenly nailed to a wall behind Graham Baker, briefcase in lap, cigarette in mouth, sitting in a steel folding chair.

Look in the eyes of the violent and villainous,

A clip shows Baker facing down MAJ before the Free-1, holding his Hardcore title against MAJ's world title.

We are the murderous militants,

A clip shows The Renegades backing Baker up at the Free-1 final as he pins Bishop after a massive Ground Zero, holding the trophy in his hands.

We have been cursed by the curs,

A clip shows Baker losing to Tommy Storm, before showing Jack Sevren's challenge.

We shooting first on our turf,

A clip shows Baker screaming out as he slams Sevren down with the Mustang Driver that ended the Free-1 Briefcase challenge.

Pay us our proper respect, you pray for your god to end the perverse,

A clip is shown of Baker approaching MAJ in the ring after his defense against McCloud, Free-1 briefcase in hand, limping but still strong willed,

He sent the worst of the worst. 

A final clip shows Baker and MAJ face to face, a frozen frame as Baker puts a finger-gun to MAJ's forehead, and the song cuts out once again as Baker and MAJ are seen sitting face to face through split frames, staring at one another. There's a quick break, and its picks up once again.

The Enemies of the State,

A clip shows Baker and all his various ring gears from his first Judgment Day promo.

Pardon me, your mistake,

A clip shows MAJ on screen at ROH as The Invaders brutalize Zack Sabre Junior and Jon Gresham.

See, i'm raised to eat pain,

A clip shows the reaction of MAJ as Baker smashes his YLC trophy in AAW.

Appetite for sliced face.

Sporadic clips start to play as Baker and MAJ's major matches are shown, with notable moments being MAJ assaulting Adam Thompson before their title match while Baker puts Nick Jameson through a glass pane. More clips play, showing major victories and moments, ending as MAJ and Baker both lock in their signature submissions on different opponents as they peel back, the song growing more and more intense. Voice lines are played as the song goes on, showing more and more brutal moves from the two as they ring out, before cutting to an alternating view of MAJ's ROH promo and Baker's AAW promo;

Newsflash, this is a Batman movie, and i'm the starring role.

He's tarnished the belt, the company, and anyone who's ever looked for or challenged for it.

FPW doesn't need you, and it sure as hell doesn't deserve me. 

I'm going Scorched Earth, and you cannot fucking escape me. 

Come Judgment Day, he'll realize that i'm everything I say I am, and more.

Come Judgment Day, Freedom Pro rises with a new Ace, and that Ace is Graham Fucking Baker.

I hope you can sleep tonight, while this little refrain sits in your mind;

Bring your Invaders,

You tapped out.

Bring your trophies,

You tapped out.

And bring your gear,

You tapped out.

Because at Judgment Day, i'm coming for every fucking one of you. 

The song continues to play, with 'huhs' and 'let's go's' playing out before the last 'Let's Go' fades to a clip of a match card, showing a furious Baker with his finger gun to his head and a smirking, confident MAJ, with the words 'FPW World Heavyweight Championship' displayed below it.