Free-1 Promo Thread

[Jim Houston]

Jim Houston sits in his office, a discarded, unopened package lying next to the desk on the floor. He sighs.

"Davey... I told you that this match would be a regular wrestling match. Not a crazy cage match. Not a match where Baker loses the champion's advantage. Not a submission match. You need to start listening. Stop wasting my time with all of these requests that you know I won't sanction and stop sending me crap that wastes my time. Whatever your game is, I don't have time to play it."

[The_Aviator_GB]

We enter on Graham Baker, slick with sweat from his last training session, exhausted once again. 

"Davey...when will you learn? You can't even make up your mind about what kind of match you want to contest for my title in, and yet, you think you can be the champion? The Ace of this whole entire company? It's not like I don't think I could beat you in a submission match, nor a monster's ball, nor a match where I simply need to be disqualified to lose the belt...no, Davey, I know I can beat you in any match, any situation, any circumstance that involves the two of us going head to head would result in one inevitable, final, and total conclusion: my victory.

I didn't get to where I was by sitting by and letting my own anxieties and lack of trust in myself brutalize me and put me down-no, Davey, I got to where I was by digging through what weighed on me and defeating any challenge placed before me. Nick Jameson, Jeremiah Johnson, James Saturn, MDE, Marcus Allen Jones, the entirety of the Free-1, I have beaten, submitted, pinned and destroyed all challenge in my way-Davey Jones, you are not an insurmountable wall, you are just another piece of a puzzle much greater than yourself, another stepping stone on my path to assuring myself as the ace of Freedom Pro Wrestling. I beat Marcus to claim that title, but I must cement it, and I will do so with another victory over, well...yourself.

You can bring all your toys and your wits and your guts and your glory, Davey Jones, but I'm going to bring mine, and when I beat you into the canvas, pin you with a Mustang Driver, rip your arm off and tap you out with it, you'll realize exactly what it takes to be the champion, the ace of this company...and exactly why I am, and you, my tall friend, are not. 

Come June 30th, I've got one lesson to teach a lunatic like you...and it's how to take a loss graciously."

[veggieleezy]

*Camera comes up on a gym, its exact location unclear. Ted Crewmember, behind the camera, enters the gym and searches until he spots Jerry Bishop, in his signature purple and black, working out. Ted addresses Jerry.*

TC: Hey, Jer, got a minute?

*Bishop pauses his exercise and grabs his water bottle.*

JB: For you, Ted, I have several. What's up?

TC: Uh... You know, I'm not really sure what I'm doing here, I'm not used to doing these.

JB: What do you mean?

TC: *catching himself* Oh, it's just that, well, they need Dasha back at the arena so they sent me to find you for the interview.

JB: Ah, cool, I getcha.

TC: It's fine, I got this, I'll just do what Dasha usually does.

JB: Right, you've done enough of these to know what to do! Here, we'll start over and you can try it out. Go ahead, back up and come back in.

*Ted backs up a few paces and pans the camera down as Bishop "resumes" his workout. Ted pans back up and "interrupts" Bishop.*

TC: Excuse me, Jerry, do you have a minute?

JB: *exaggerated jovial voice* Why, of course, good Tedothy! How can I help you?

TC: That's not- never mind. Jerry, there have been some big shakeups here in FPW recently, and I was wondering if we could get your thoughts?

JB: Why, what sort of shakeups do you mean, Tedemy? Superstar shakeups? Milkshakeups?

TC: For one thing, your sister Berry just won the Freedom Championship.

JB: *exaggeration drops, but still sounds happy* Ah, yes! I'm so proud of her! Couldn't be happier for her! Mason was a hell of a champion, and I'm sure Berry's reign will be just as exciting, if not more exciting, than WrestleMania. I mean, she's going to be a terrific champion, and I'd imagine a fighting champion to boot.

TC: I'm sure there's at least one person in FPW right now who seems hungry for a title match. This new guy Botiatus.

JB: Bow Tie Atlas?

TC: No, it's-

JB: Bowsheeightus?

TC: No, Jer, it's-

JB: Bowflex Apples?

TC: That's even further away from it.

JB: It's hard to say when you only see it in print, Ted. *Ted mutters "but I said it out loud..."* What's he like? I haven't been in the locker room in a little while.

TC: He's a little cocky but he's got a following, I'll give him that. He calls them his "House Guests".

JB: A bit odd, but who am I to judge?

TC: Yeah, he calls wherever he is "the House of Bo", so he's started calling FPW "the House of Bo".

*Bishop stiffens a little*

JB: Is that so?

TC: He's been making an impact on 60 Minutes, and he's just called out the locker room, saying he wants to take on an "ace" of FPW.

JB: *Bishop nods pensively* Is that right. Okay, I've got an idea.

TC: Hm?

JB: *Bishop addresses the camera directly, almost whispering* Bo, I appreciate that you want to make a name for yourself here. But to come in here, to this house, the house that Jerry Bishop built, and call it your own after a match or two? And then you call out the aces? Just because you're new here and you're hungry, doesn't mean you get a shot at the top for nothing. But don't worry, you'll get what you want. In fact you'll get more than what you want. You want the ace of FPW? No no no, Bo. Say hello to the joker. And this wild card's gonna give you a wild match.

*Bishop flicks his thumbs at the corners of his mouth, signalling his Chelsea Smile submission*

TC: That was, uh, different, Jer.

JB: *looks past the camera again at Ted, chipper* Thanks, I was going for different. It felt kinda cool, tapping into my inner Jake the Snake Roberts. Only I have a bear for a pet, not several large pythons.

TC: Right. Look, Jer, I gotta get back to the arena, they're probably looking for me already. I'll see you soon.

JB: Hey, Ted, before you go... If you don't mind me asking... why isn't she here?

TC: Mr. Houston had a, um, a special assignment for her, so she couldn't make it.

JB: Right, right, you mentioned that. Well, tell her I said hi, okay?

TC: Sure, Jer. I'll tell her.

*Ted turns to leave, and as he steps outside he turns the camera to himself*

TC: I'm glad you didn't have to see that in person, Dasha...

[botiatus]

Bo walks through the doors of a gym. Local wrestlers are scattered around doing various exercises. There's a ring to the left with a couple guys inside running the ropes. After glancing around for a second he frowns before cupping his hands around his mouth

"YOOOOOOOO"

The entire room turns to look at Bo as the noisy gym becomes deathly silent

"Can somebody please point me in the direction of Jerry Bishop?"

JB- "Who's asking?"

Bishop appears from the other side of the ring and a path starts to clear as they approach either other. Bo smiles as he answers sarcastically

Bo- "I believe you pronounced it Bowflex Apples"

Jerry chuckles as they finally come face to face

JB- "Sorry about that but you gotta admit it's a bit of a tongue twister Bo..."

Jerry pauses and struggles to recall the name correctly when Bo interjects

Bo- "Just Bo is fine"

JB- "Great!"

Bo- "This is a nice gym here. Every inch of this place screams wrestling. I think this will do nicely"

JB- "Yeah I like it here but nicely for what?"

Bo- "Well I ran into Ted Crewmember and he showed me your message. Everyone knows Jerry Bishop is synonymous with FPW so of course I was happy. But my request for a match timeslot was rejected once again by Jim Houston. I was pretty pissed but then I realized that I don't need him because you've got a ring right here. You're dressed, I'm dressed, so let's do this"

Jerry is caught off guard

JB- "Wait, you wanna have the match right now? Here?"

Bo- "Sure, why not?"

JB- "But we don't even have a ref"

Bo- "IS THERE A REF IN THE HOUSE?"

A few hands go up in the air as Bo flashes a smile

Bo- "Like I said, this place screams wrestling. There's always a couple of guys who ref on the side for extra money"

Jerry still looks unsure but as the entire room watches them a random wrestler yells out "YOU GOT THIS JERRY" followed by others agreeing and encouraging him. Jerry looks over at the ring and let's out a chuckle

JB- "Alright then"

Bo and Jerry walk over to the ring while everyone else drops whatever they were doing. Once inside, they take opposite corners and begin stretching

JB- (stretching out his arms) "You know, I thought you'd much rather do this in front of a big crowd"

Bo- (bending side to side) "I know what you mean. Don't get me wrong I love to have my House packed to the brim with Guests (now using the ropes to stretch his legs) The truth is though that I could care less about the size. I still wrestle local matches in high school gyms to this day"

Someone now sporting stripes comes into the ring. The local talent crowds around the ring while Jerry and Bo both signal to the ref that they're ready to start...

Unsanctioned Match: Jerry Bishop vs Botiatus

The bell rings and Bo and Jerry shake hands before circling each other

Bo- "I should warn you that I'm going to come at you the same way I have all of FPW"

Bo then fakes a lockup lunge and when Jerry goes high to meet him Bo shoots low and around Jerry for a rear waistlock that quickly turns into a Northern Lights Suplex that's rolled through into a Bridging Northern Lights Suplex! The onlookers are a bit stunned to see a match start in such a fashion and even the ref takes half a second to respond to the pin 1, 2, and a kickout quickly by Jerry. Bo allows him to get back to his feet and Jerry shakes the feeling back into his neck while giving a bewildered look. Bo just shrugs and mouths "I told you so" before flashing a smile as they circle once again.

Bo offers an outstretched arm and Jerry is careful this time, reaching out slowly and locking fingers. They lock up both hands in a Greco Roman Knuckle Lock. After some jockeying Bo begins to overpower Jerry forcing him to one knee and uses the opportunity to transition into a headlock. The crowd can be heard shouting encouragement to Jerry who throws a couple elbows to the gut. Bo loosens the hold which allows Jerry to get back on his feet. He shoves Bo off sending him into the ropes and leapfrogs him after the rebound. Bo hits a second rebound right into an Arm Drag. He gets back to his feet and runs into a second Arm Drag. He charges again but this time catches the Arm Drag attempt. He tries to set up an Arm Stunner but Jerry uses his free arm to drop elbows to the back of Bo's neck, freeing himself and spinning Bo around into a Step Up Enziguri! Scattered approval is heard from the outside as Jerry goes for the cover 1, 2, no, this time it's Bo with the quick kickout. Jerry allows him to get back to his feet as Bo rubs the back of his head before giving Jerry a look of acknowledgment.


They lock up and Jerry gets the Headlock transitioning to a Hammerlock. Bo quickly moves towards the ropes but at the last second Jerry transitions into a Russian Leg Sweep! He gets to his feet and stalks Bo, pouncing on him the second he gets to his feet with a Dropkick that knocks him into the corner. Bo uses the ropes to pull himself up but he turns into a Running Dropkick! As Bo struggles to his feet again, Jerry climbs the second turnbuckle and hits a Blockbuster! More cheers are heard as he goes for the cover 1, 2, no, Bo gets a shoulder up. Jerry pulls Bo up to his feet but an Irish Whip attempt would be stifled as Bo hooked his arm to the rope followed by Bo pulling in Jerry and lifting him into a Stun Gun! He'd then immediately target the neck again with an Inverted Headlock Backbreaker!

Bo steps out onto the apron and catches his breath watching Jerry the whole time. As he reaches his feet Bo goes for a Springboard Blockbuster but Jerry ducks out of the way. Bo is able to roll through into a rebound and connects with a Lariat. He then picks Jerry up and plants him with a Twisting Vertical Suplex. Murmurs are heard from the crowd as the ref counts 1, 2, no, Jerry kicks out! Bo gets a Side Headlock and Jerry struggles to one knee before landing elbows to the gut that soften the hold. He gets back to both feet and shoves off Bo, sending him into the ropes. Jerry leapfrogs the rebound but this time Bo comes off the second rebound with a leaping Double Forearm Strike! Jerry gets up and is knocked down again by a Double Forearm Strike. He gets up and Bo dodges his Lariat attempt as Jerry keeps momentum rebounding right into a Tilt A Whirl Backbreaker! Jerry is sprawled out and Bo steps out onto the apron. The small crowd watches as he goes through the normal theatrics of hyping the audience to whispers. It bothers Bo none at all as he still points to himself and booms H.O.B! He goes for the Slingshot Leg Drop but Jerry rolls out of the way and Bo adjusts to land on his feet.

Jerry stands and Bo goes for a gut kick but Jerry catches the foot. He throws it aside and Bo spins into a Dragon Whip! He kips up and goes to grab Jerry who catches him with a Schoolboy 1, 2, no. Both men get to their feet and Jerry whips Bo into the ropes following right behind him with a Rolling Elbow that drops Bo to one knee. Jerry secures a Side Headlock that he converts into a Running Bulldog! With Bo down near the ropes, Jerry steps out to the apron but Bo gets back up quickly and delivers a Sliding Elbow to the gut. With Jerry doubled over the second rope Bo stands and grabs his head, lifting him until his back touches the top rope before driving his head down into Rising Knee Strikes 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9. He then hits a rebound to deliver a Running Knee Strike but Jerry dodges the blow and when Bo stops and turns around he catches him with a Slingshot DDT! The small crowd lets out it's loudest cheer yet as a few are heard counting with the ref 1,2... NO!

Jerry gets back to his feet and sets Bo up, hitting a Parallel Snapmare. and rebounding into a punishing Penalty Kick! The gym is the loudest it's been as seemingly everyone applauds the Touchstone Takedown. They count with the ref 1...2...NO!

Bo just gets a shoulder up and Jerry hits the mat in frustration. A voice yells "SHAKE IT OFF JERRY" as he gets to his feet. He looks around the gym at everyone cheering him on and nods before signaling for the Last Laugh, pulling Bo into a straitjacket position. He booms a laugh and Bo powerfully bull rushes both men into the ropes. Jerry grabs the rope and Bo bounces off rolling backwards into a seated position. Jerry goes for another Penalty Kick but Bo lays back dodging it and then immediately kip's up as Jerry keeps pace into a rebound that Bo performs a Blind Leapfrog over! At this point everyone in the gym is in full fan mode, reacting to each move and shift in momentum. Jerry stops and turns around to see Bo running right past him followed immediately by the feeling of an arm around his neck as Bo hits a picture perfect House Rules! (Modified Leaping Neckbreaker) Jerry hits the mat and the crowd lets out an "OH" before the room falls silent as Bo covers and the ref counts 1...2...3!

Winner: Botiatus

Both men lay exhausted as the gym gives a long cheer to them. Bo gets to his feet and rubs the back of his head. He looks at Jerry who's in a seated position facing away from Bo. He goes to walk up to him but Jerry rolls out of the ring. Bo watches from the ropes as Jerry walks to the locker room without ever turning back or acknowledging anyone, even as several people tap him on the shoulder or back as he passes

[Davey Jones]

Davey walks out, calmly, stands in a spot in an undisclosed location...

Hey Graham Cracker... You ready for the beating of a lifetime? I don’t need weapons. As I said before, I just wanted you to have equal footing. You saw what happens when I fight one one one in a straight up match. You’ll be lucky to last more than five to ten minutes in the ring with me.

And Tex, I saw what happened backstage. Growing a backbone, I see, even to me. One has to expect retaliation, as it seems like some are trying to do. I may be in a business partnership with Jack, but you sign my checks. I know I can be effective muscle if you need help. But, for the right price.

Baker, you got to stop baking yourself. Especially if you think that, after Sunday, you’re going to retain. See, the Lunatic is going to rip that belt from you. And I won’t care how I do it, or how much time it takes me to do it. Just know that when we are done, I’ll walk out on my own two feet. You’ll be lucky if you have two bones left unbroken... Good luck, Mr. Cookie Baker

[veggieleezy]

*Camera comes up backstage on an agitated Jerry Bishop somewhat hobbling through the hall of the gym with a towel over his shoulder (purple, naturally). A young kid approaches him cautiously. The kid is holding a drink in their hand.*

YK: Mr. Bishop? Mr. Bishop?

*Bishop pauses and looks down*

JB: *tired* Yeah?

YK: *sheepish* You need any help?

JB: *shaking his head* Uh-uh.

YK: I just want you to know, I think, I think, you're the, best ever.

JB: *slightly defeated* Yeah, sure.

*Bishop turns away and starts to leave. The kid lifts the drink towards Bishop.*

YK: Want my milkshake?

*Bishop pauses, surprised.*

YK: It's okay, you can have it.

*Bishop seems confused by the offer and declines.*

JB: No, no.

YK: No, really, you can have it.

*Bishop sighs and accepts somewhat reluctantly.*

JB: Okay...

*Bishop takes the milkshake and starts to drink it. As he drinks his alternate music, Holst's Jupiter slowly fills the air and he continues to down the entire milkshake. The kid sighs and starts to leave.*

YK: See you 'round.

*Bishop finishes the milkshake and smiles. At this point his music is peaking. He turns to the kid.*

JB: Hey, kid!

*The kid turns*

JB: Catch!

*Bishop throws his towel from around his shoulders to the kid. The kid catches it*

YK: WOW! Thanks, Mr. Jester!

*The kid runs off happily. Bishop turns back to leave and his music cuts out as his smile fades.*

JB: Oh, god, I probably shouldn't have chugged that...

*He limps out of shot, fade out*

[Davey Jones]

Davey gets to the back after the match, and starts making his way to his dressing room with the championship over his shoulder, when Dasha comes up to him.

DB: Congratulations on your victory, capturing your first title here in Freedom Pro Wrestling. How does it feel to finally get the belt?
DJ: As fulfilling as it feels, to not get a reaction out of them is... Eerily fulfilling.
DB: Seems like you were upset at them, though...
DJ: Why should I be upset at minions like them? I told EVERYONE that this was going to happen. But did they all believe me? NO. Did cookie cutter Graham Baker believe me? Hell No he didn't!

Davey turns and smirks at Dasha

DJ: But you. I suspect you knew better, after everything we've been through, right?
DB: I've come to learn to never doubt you. 
DJ: Smart lady. I appreciate that.
DB: Turning our attention to Free-1, how do you plan to win it all?
DJ: See this thing of beauty? (Davey takes the FPW World Championship off his shoulder, and allows Dasha to have a close up) This right here says I'm the best in this company. I've said it before, that he was a great champion. His only fault was being champion without my being here. I warned him this would happen! Hell, I even tried to even the odds to give him a chance to beat me! But they all got nixed. Not that it would've mattered. All this is, is just a game of chess in the end.
DB: Funny you should say that. I'm getting word now that Jim Houston is having you face Jerry Bishop next week, in what appears to be a qualifier match for Free-1 for him. 
DJ: A jester, in the court of the Lunatic? This could be fun.... For me...

Dasha starts to look nervous, wanting to move away out of fear, but knowing she has an interview to finish

DJ: Dasha, I have no more ill will towards you. We have been enemies. We have been friends. We have what I feel to be a mutual respect for one another. However, he has been losing matches, and I, winning them of late. What reason is there to believe that will change now?
DB: You seem rather confident. Almost too confident.
DJ: Don't read too much into that. I told Baker something about being overly confident. I know him as well as he knows me. I know this will be a big test for each of us, for different reasons. He better come prepared like I know he can. I'll be disappointed if he doesn't last longer than the Graham cracker Baker did. Now, if you don't mind Dasha, I'd like to get to my padded room and do some recon.

Dasha nods, and he walks away toward his dressing room

[Davey Jones]

We see Davey in black jeans and a Shinedown tee shirt, in his dressing room. Camera work isn't steady, as if someone's filming on a phone and trying to follow Davey around his room. We see just his upper torso and head

Marcus, you realize I did you a favor, of sorts. Right?

Davey puffs up some, camera shakily moves back, and we see from the waist up, FPW World championship secured around his waist

See, you were set to not have a championship match lest Baker lost the belt. Your status has been restored as a legitimate contender again. But do you think you have a chance? i chewed up Wililams and spat him out like a used piece of gum. Baker put up a better fight, but I still destroyed him while eating Slim Jims. What makes you think you have any chance of not suffering the same fate in the Looney Bin?

Davey walks over to a chair, unstraps the championship, and sets it down before sitting

But enough about you. Houston, let's talk man to man for a minute if I may. I know there's been --

A knock at his door interrupts

DJ: WHATINTHEHELLDOYOUWANT?
?? (scared): I have a delivery? Some Slim Jims, and a few Frosties from Wendy's. Just like you asked for, sir?
DJ: Come in! Set them in front of me, and BE GONE!

A skinny man, no more than his late 20s comes in. Somewhat buffed up, but not totally fit, either. He sets the items down, and locks eyes with Davey. They exchange smiles, before the man leaves, closing the door behind him. Davey downs two of the three Frosties in no time flat before he continues.

DJ: Damn that hits the spot. Jim, I know there's been some angst about my being champion. Rest assured, I will not just blindly act out in rage. On the contrary, I propose an honest olive branch. I've seen some unrest between the others, and their frustrations be taken out on you. As champion, it's my duty to represent this company in the best possible way.

Davey downs the last Frosty, bites down on a Slim Jim, and continues

So, what I propose to you is this - you want integrity to be kept? You want some order to be kept? I'm your man. I'll be a body guard or bouncer or whatever you want me to be to protect what needs to be protected. Obviously, not when I need to prep for a match and wrestle. Fair enough?

Davey sighs and stands up. He puts the belt back on around his waist, and exits his room. The person filming is caught off guard, but follows.

Jerry, I pray that you are ready. You can be so formidable, when you choose to be. You can be so dominating of a force, when you want to be. But now Berry has to do all the winning for you? She's got you whipped like nothing else. When she says jump, do you ask her 'how high'? You need to get out of this funk you're in. Because when you lose, I don't want any excuses. I want you at your absolute best.

Davey sneers, starts to laugh demonically, then continues

(Still laughing slightly) I'm almost ready to say I'll take on both of you. Almost. Bish, I know you, as you are right now, you got no chance in hell against me! In fact, I'll hit Psychosis on you, and then it'll be light's ---

Camera cuts out, and the feed ends

[botiatus]

Botiatus is in his locker room after his victory over Bobby O to qualify for the Free-1. He sits on a stool icing his shoulder as he intently watches a replay of his match. Dasha knocks on the open door but Bo doesn't react so after a few moments she walks in and approaches Bo. He holds up a finger stopping her in her tracks. On the screen, the final moments play out and Bo watches the interference by Jack and Davey he previously had been oblivious too. Davey lands Psychosis and Bo stands, angrily kicking the stool across the room. He throws the ice at the screen, knocking it over before motioning for Dasha to come over.

Bo- "Ain't gonna be no interview right now Dasha. Just please hold the mic while I get something off my chest"

He leans his head back and takes a deep breath, seeming to compose himself before he continues

"First to Bobby, I'm sorry. I never saw either of those uninvited Guests out there. I wanted to earn my way into the Free-1, not have it handed to me. But I know how these things go and the fact is I'm in and you're out. So again, my humblest apologies. When the Free-1 is over and done with, I promise I will give you the honest rematch you deserve"

He takes another breath but is now visibly shaking slightly as he speaks in a much more serious tone

"Now to the two knuckleheads who interrupted my match. I know Jack has a lot of history with Bobby. And I don't give a shit. He interrupted MY MATCH. And that's a MAJOR violation of House Rules. So now Bobby isn't the only one Jack needs to worry about. I hope we're in the same bracket in the Free-1 because I'd love nothing more than to turn his lights out with a House Rules and knock him out of contention. And as far as that meathaed he's working with..."

Bo pauses as he calms once again and flashes a smile before continuing

"You know Dasha everyone here, including you, seems to be terrified of that giant nut case. Well I'm not. Between winning the FPW Championship tonight and interrupting my match, all he did was paint a big ass target on himself for me. I'd say I want him in the Free-1 as well but that's assuming he even qualifies. I've faced Jerry. I know how good he is and I'm not convinced Davey will beat him. But either way my goal here is clear as day now. I'm going to win the Free-1 and I'm going to take the strap off that padded wall psycho. And once he's in the ring with me he's going to learn very quickly that this isn't the 'Looney Bin' no no no THIS. IS. MYYYYYYY. HOUSE!"

Bo walks away leaving Dasha standing in his locker room

[Davey Jones]

Hey Bo, you claim you didn't see it, but yet, you're going to take the victory. Fitting. Rookies come in here all the time talking smack about who they are or who's house it is. Quit living in AJ Styles' shadow! Cause I got news for you. This isn't your house. You don't think I know the target on my back?

Davey laughs maniacally

I told Williams I was going to kick his ass. What happened? He got one or two shots in on me, then he got put down like the rook he was. I told Baker that he was only keeping that belt warm for me to take it. That he only held it merely due to my not being there before. And what happened in that match? I took care of him rather easily. Let me tell you a little secret. Lean in REAL CLOSE. You close? Paying attention? Good. Here's my secret:

Davey quiets down, talking in a barely audible whisper

I've been working on a new maneuver - a submission, if you will. It's called "Disillusionment". Let's just say, you won't know exactly where you are any more if I slap it on you. You've already suffered Psychosis if you think you're going to beat me, much less get a title shot.

Davey starts to become erratic with his tone

You want a title match? You need to earn a title match. I'm not convinced you've earned one. So I propose a gauntlet style match for you. Take on Death Squad in back to back 1 on 1 matches. If you beat them, then I might consider you worthy of a title shot. Lose to either one of them, then you're in the back of the line. Besides, you may not even have the ability to fight me as champ. Perhaps I'll allow a rematch to the former champion.

Davey goes back to being even with his tone

If you think for one second, Bo, that I'm overlooking Bishop, that I don't know what he's capable of when he's 100% on, then you son, have 99 problems, and I'm all of them. See, Bo, if you've done your homework proper, you'd know that Jerry and I go back a ways. Before here, we were in Rising Phoenix together. And before that, we were overseas in 50-50. We've fought as bitter enemies. We've fought as tight-nit friends. We've fought as everything in between, too. I know damn well what he's capable of. And I want every ounce of that to show up in our upcoming match. I want there to be no excuses when he loses, and consequently loses the chance to be Free-1 champ.

You keep claiming that this is your house. I won't stop you. I'll prove to you that I'm the face running this place! At least, I will should you even get past Death Squad. 

Davey laughs somewhat demonically as the feed cuts out

[ticktock]

“Well it’s all changed around here, huh?”

Aaron Williams turns a handheld camera onto himself.

“Davey Jones as FPW Champion... yeesh... that’s a scary thought. But is Aaron Williams planning to back away from Davey Jones? Gimme a hell no. But... I can’t imagine I’m at the front of line of possible contenders. I mean... Baker will get his rematch, Bobby has unfinished business with Davey Jones, Marcus has a chance to win the belt again now, both Bishops, my old amigo Jace... even guys like Saturn and Clutch. They all must be ahead of me after that mauling I got from Davey.”

Williams raises his eyebrows to the camera.

“So how do I get back to having a shot? Well... I have to win the Free-1 haven’t I? But how do I do that? Well, let’s call it a... I don’t know if I can make it into a twelve step program, but I can make it into a seven step program. Normally, step one is to admit your problems. My problem is that I’m not yet in the Free-1. Therefore, my solution is to defeat Jack Sevren. Defeat Jack Sevren, you say? Easy to say, I’m fully aware, but not so easy to do, especially with that big beast of an FPW Champion standing and waiting in the shadows. I can beat Jack Sevren. I know that and I think Jack Sevren knows that. But can I beat both of them? I’m not so sure..

Williams strokes his beard and makes an over the top thoughtful face.

“So I may have a solution. I hear there are a few people unhappy with Messers Sevren and Jones. Bobby O... Botiatus... I’m not asking for you to get involved in my match because I don’t do things that way. However... if Davey Jones tries to cost me the match, how about one of you makes sure he doesn’t affect my match the way he affected yours? It’s always good to have someone owing you a favour and... if you do this for me... I’ll owe you one for sure.”

[noname1525]

A video uploaded to the FPW website opens on a black screen with a music rising in the background, before the words "FPW Free-1 Tournament" flash onscreen. Highlights from last year's tournament are shown, set to intense music. The music begins to fade out as the words "Spotlight: Artemis Evans" appear, and then highlights from Artemis' time in FPW are shown, ending on a slow-motion shot of her having her arm raised after a match. This shot eventually fades out to show Artemis Evans and Dasha Banks sitting on couches opposite each other.

"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the first episode of Free-1 Spotlight, where we highlight the competitors in the upcoming tournament taking place in Freedom Pro Wrestling. Joining us for this first episode is the Glory Huntress, Artemis Evans."

Artemis nods as the camera turns to her, before it focuses back on Dasha as she begins speaking again.

"Artemis, you were one of the first people to qualify for the Free-1, entering the tournament just after the special entrants. Was there any particular reason you chose to enter so early?"

"Well, there's just so many skilled people on the FPW roster," Artemis responded in an uncharacteristically chipper tone. "I knew that if I wanted to enter the tournament, I had to act quickly or I'd lose my spot." She scoffs, the familiar arrogant attitude quickly returning. "Please. Most of the people here aren't worthy to lace my boots, much less steal my spot. It would have been a crime if I didn't enter the tournament, such a thing was inevitable. And I don't believe in dragging out the inevitable why make anyone wait for something that's going to happen anyway."

Dasha rolled her eyes before moving on to the next question.

"Let's talk about your qualifying match for a moment. You faced Zachary Bates in the main event of the first Road to Free-1 show. Can I get your thoughts on that match?"

"Yes, it appears Houston has finally realized the talent he's been neglecting, finally allowing me to compete in the main event. Hopefully we'll see this trend continue. As for my opponent, I must confess that I was disappointed with Zachary Bates. I thought he might actually present a challenge for me, but I defeated him without a second thought. I guess I overestimated his skill."

"Moving from the qualifying match to the actual tournament, the Free-1 can be an exceptionally grueling event, pushing many competitors to their limits. How have you been preparing for such a marathon?"

"Are you kidding me?" Artemis asked incredulously. "For how long you've been doing this Dasha, I thought you'd know better than to ask such a stupid question. There's no way I'm going to reveal any hint of my strategy for this tournament. The less my opponents know the better. Not that knowing my strategy would help them of course/"

"Well, since you mentioned your opponents, let's talk about them for a moment. You will be facing five other competitors throughout the month of August. Based on who's been announced and those who have qualified to enter, is there anyone in particular you'd want to face? Potentially a rematch with Karlson perhaps?"

"Well, up until last night, I would have said Graham Baker. That way, if the improbable happens and I don't win the tournament, a victory over the champion would instantly propel me into title contention. But Baker's not the champion anymore, is he? He lost his title, he coulcn't handle the pressure. And while I match with someone of Graham's skill level would be welcome, I'm no longer interested in him. My interest has shifted to the title's new owner, Davey Jones. I find myself utterly disgusted that an out of control manic like that is the face of our company, and I now would very much like to face him and show that despite being on top, he's not the best. And as for Karlson, I don't care about her anymore, and I won't care until I come to reclaim my championship."

"And finally, while winning the Free-1 is obviously the ultimate goal, I've found that many wrestlers also have secondary goals when it comes to the tournament. Do you have any such ulterior motives?"

"I know that there's still many people who believe that I'm not as good as I say I am, and there's a part of my that wants to use this tournament to prove them wrong. But no, I have nothing to prove to these people. I know that I'm the best, and if they want to continue to deny that, then they can keep living in their fantasy worlds where their worthless opinions actually matter."

Dasha rolls her eyes again and sighs as she turns to the camera. "Well, thank you for taking the time to do this Artemis. And thank you everyone for watching this episode of Free-1 Spotlight. Look forward to more episodes featuring your favorite Free-1 2019 competitors."

[botiatus]

"AJ Styles? You think I'm trying to copy him? I'm sorry Davey but I had to laugh at that. Allow me to give you a little information about myself. You see this is indeed MY HOUSE but let explain exactly why that is"

Bo stops for a second smiling at a thought to himself before continuing

"When I say it's my house, it's not some stupid, focus group tested slogan. I say it because I am comfortable no matter where I am. And that's how it's been my ENTIRE career. Wherever I am, I'm home. And when I'm home, my House Guests are always welcome. You'll notice it more week by week when those same fans who don't cheer you start holding signs reading H.O.B. But that's the future. Let's talk right now.

In case you haven't been paying attention I've been doing nothing but earning my way since I got here. I didn't ASK for a title shot, I said I'd earn it. The only one who seems to ask for things around here and get them is YOU. So why don't you ask your good buddy 'Tex' to make that Gauntlet match for me. Death Squad seem to think I'm nothing more than a attention seeking fool anyways so let's put those words to the test. Let's see how good the champs are against a FOOL when they each have to go it alone. How's the next Road to Free-1 show sound?"

Bo smirks before continuing

"Understand this Davey. I've had my eye on FPW for quite some time. I know more about this place, more about you than you think. But you know almost nothing about me. And I plan to change all that. So throw as many people in my way as you feel necessary. It matters not. I'm going to keep pushing forward until I reach your 'Looney Bin'. And I'm going to leave it with the FPW Championship

[Jim Houston]

@fpwgmjh

Loving the number of people gunning for the belt now we have a new champion. Looks like Free-1 season came not a moment too soon. Also, Bo... check the card. Our Tag Champs are already in action on Night Three. But I’ll bear your request in mind, as I did last time. #Free-1

[The_Aviator_GB]

It's been three days since we've heard anything from the former Freedom Pro Wrestling Champion, Graham Baker. Despite other victories after his loss against Davey Jones, Baker's social media presence has been almost entirely blacked out. No one from in or out of the company has reported seeing him at any of the regular gyms, haunts, etc. Graham Baker, for all intents and purposes, has gone off the grid.

Until, well...

-

A static filled screen greets the viewers of Freedom Pro Wrestling's main website, before suddenly, the image shifts to another of Graham Baker sitting in a usual steel chair. His torso is slick with sweat, his face still bloodied from his match against Davey Jones, his eyes looking toward the ground. Baker looks as though he's about to speak at first...but he waits, and after a few more moments, he finally begins speaking.

Some things...are just too good to last forever.

Baker shakes his head, tapping his hand against the place where his Freedom Pro Wrestling Championship used to rest.

Some things...well, some things must come to an end. After two-hundred and ten days and seven defenses, my reign as Freedom Pro Wrestling World Heavyweight Champion has come to an abrupt, and brutal end at the hands of one Davey Jones, the so-called 'American Lunatic'. I...underestimated Davey, of course. I figured for sure that I had that title match in the bag, that I was going to tap out an overconfident cocky son of a bitch or pin him off a Mustang Driver, but the one time I managed to hit one, he kicked out immediately. Too fast, too strong, too...resilient, Davey Jones took all I had and more, and he wouldn't fucking stay down.

So...what does this mean for me?

Baker sighs, his entire torso heaving as he holds his head. 

I'm gonna take a few days to collect myself. Rest and relaxation and all that jazz...but at my core, i've failed you. All of you who were counting on me, and saw me rise to the top, saw me take on Marcus Allen Jones, saw me brutalize myself in a variety of matches against Jameson, Storm, Sevren, Marcus, Saturn, MDE, the whole nine yards, I've let you all down. I've let this company down by letting a man who came in to bully and boss his way around win my championship off me, take my title and claim that I'm no longer the Ace of Freedom Pro, take my honor and my pride and everything the fuck else he could take from me away. I'm a wreck, I'm ashes, and there's almost nothing left of me to salvage.

But this isn't the end. I'll be back, July 14th, and I'll face off against the unholy fervor and force that is Go Shihei. I'll take the beast to his limits, and I'll put him down for the count. 

And Shihei...since I need to prove myself once again, since I need to show everyone here that Graham Baker hasn't fallen off...It's a Japanese Deathmatch. 

Baker stands, leaving the camera and walking off into the darkness, alone, as the promo cuts out...