Free-1 Promo Thread

[Jim Houston]

@fpwgmjh

It seems like people want to take my job and run FPW themselves at the moment. I will make an announcement tonight regarding the Free-1, the FPW Championship and the next show.

[Jim Houston]

Jim Houston sits behind what seems to be his freshly polished desk wearing what seems to be a new suit. He addresses the camera directly.

“In the past week, Freedom Pro Wrestling has seen quite the number of incidents. Firstly, we have a champion who feels that he has the right to make people believe he has kidnapped another human being just to play more mind games with the person he screwed out of a Free-1 spot. Secondly, we have every man and his dog coming out of the woodwork to try and claim that they ought to be facing Davey Jones for the FPW Championship. Thirdly, we have a former champion who has decided that he can change his match at our next show without consulting me. Fourthly, we have our newest signing claiming that he doesn’t follow the agreed rules around here and instead plays by his own set of rules.

“I’d like to take a moment to address each situation. Firstly, Davey Jones. You said that you feel a sense of regret about your fake kidnapping. But it’s not a sense of regret for doing it. Instead it’s a sense of regret for not informing me in advance when I shut it down. Did you really believe that I’d sanction it? Of course not. This is a wrestling promotion. I am responsible for the conduct of my employees, of which you are one. If you break the law, or pretend to, and I’ve signed off on it, I’m out of a job just as much as you are. And while I’m addressing you, Davey Jones, your mind games are certainly effective with our roster. You’re bringing up a lot of challengers. But that’s causing it’s own chaos, which I believe is entirely your own design as you attempt to make me make the incorrect decision to accept your offer of protection so that you can manipulate me one to one. I refuse to be manipulated by any FPW wrestler. This chaos will come to an end one way or another.

“Secondly, Graham Baker. I understand your frustration. A week ago, you were the man around here and everyone was gunning for you. Now you don’t have that belt and it seems like you’ve been forgotten. Believe me when I say you haven’t been forgotten and are very much still one of the most valuable wrestlers to this company. However, your frustration does not give you the chance to change cards at your beckon call. You accepted the challenge of Go Shihei and you will face Go Shihei next week in a Japanese deathmatch. You always kept your word. Don’t let losing the belt change that.

“Botiatus. I’ll keep this simple. I respect any man who has a code that they live by. You certainly seem to have that. But you’re an FPW wrestler now and you will respect the rules that I set down or you will no longer wrestle here.

“And finally... the FPW Championship. I’ve made it clear that winning the Free-1 is the best path to a title match. However, it seems like there are some deserving people here who don’t want to wait. Perhaps that’s because the Free-1 still feels a way away to them. So here is what I’m going to do. We know ten of the participants so far, so where’s the harm in revealing the two blocks? Maybe once people know their opponents, they’ll be able to focus their energy on them rather than on something that they cannot have. So right here, right now, I will perform the draw for the official Free-1 II blocks.”

Houston pulls out a large bowl from under his desk. The bowl is covered but a number of heavy balls can be heard rolling around inside the bowl. At the top of the bowl, there is an opening.

“The participants in the Free-1 will be drawn into two blocks. In each block, the six participants will all face one another in matches with a 30 minute time limit. Winners will receive two points while both wrestlers will be awarded one point in the event of a draw, either due to count-out, disqualification or the time expiring. At the end of August, the winners of each block will compete for the right to be the second ever Free-1 winner and to headline Judgement Day II against the reigning FPW Champion. Here goes...”

Houston reaches down into the bowl and pulls out a ball.

“First up in the A Block is... Berry Bishop.”

Houston shows the ball to the camera and places his hand back in the bowl, pulling out a second ball.

“The first name in the B Block is... Artemis Evans.”

Houston repeats the ritual, showing the ball and pulling out another.

“Joining Berry in the A Block will be... Marcus Allen Jones.”

He does the same again.

“And with Artemis Evans in the B Block, we have... the winner of the qualifying match between Jerry Bishop, Davey Jones and Bobby O.”

A fifth ball is plucked from the bowl.

“The third competitor in the A Block will be... Jace Mason.”

Mason’s ball is placed on the table and another is drawn,

“In the B Block, we have... Botiatus.”

Another ball is pulled out.

“The fourth competitor in the A Block is... James Saturn.”

Saturn’s ball is dropped.

“In the B Block we have... Go Shihei.”

Just four names remain.

“Our penultimate name for the A Block is... the winner of the qualifying match between Jack Sevren and Aaron Williams.”

Houston’s face betrays a slight annoyance. He pulls out another ball.

“In the B Block we have... Clutch McCloud.”

Houston gives the final two balls a rattle before picking out the second to last name,

“The Final entrant into the A Block will be... Elizabeth Karlson.”

He places the ball down and quickly pulls out the final one.

“And finally... completing the B Block, we have... Graham Baker.”

Houston puts the final ball in place and looks down at the lineups, smiling to himself.

“Well there we have it. The A Block will consist of Berry Bishop, Marcus Allen Jones, Jace Mason, James Saturn, either Jack Sevren or Aaron Williams and Elizabeth Karlson. The B Block will consist of Artemis Evans, Jerry Bishop, Davey Jones or Bobby O, Botiatus, Go Shihei, Clutch McCloud and Graham Baker. That concludes...”

Houston pauses for a moment, thinking.

“Actually, I do have one more thing to say following that draw. Davey Jones owes Graham Baker a rematch for the FPW Championship. If Davey Jones is successful in his qualifying match, the main event of the second night of the Free-1 on August 2nd will be the Free-1 match between Davey Jones and Graham Baker, with the FPW Championship on the line.”

Houston smiles as the video fades to a graphic showing the two groups,

[Davey Jones]

Davey stands in front of a board depicting the FPW Logo, belt around his waist

Controlled chaos, Jim. This is what I said I would bring And that is what I brought to the table. I regret the decision to make it seem like I actually kidnapped CJ. I will ensure that... Alternate methods to my madness are used. While I am addressing you, I have a question to ask. I thought that being the champ meant that I didn't have to qualify for my spot, as it appears to be now? You claim that others don't make the matches, but yet, you let someone else, someone that's not even in the title picture, mind you, make a match for another competitor, against me? Fine. Said wrestler said that he wanted Bishop to earn his spot. But at my expense? At the cost of my spot that's allegedly guaranteed? A spot that was, until then, guaranteed? Perhaps I need to become more unhinged and unglued. Perhaps I become more "out of control" as others say. I will not hold back, once that bell rings. I will use anything and everything at my disposal. Jerry, Bobby, you both better pray to God that I don't get going early. Cause I'll put the two of you away quicker than I put down Williams.

Jim, why does my winning my qualifying match have anything to do with giving the rematch? Contractually or not, I like to consider myself a fair man. Crazed man, maybe, but fair. For him to be the first challenger for the belt, in my eyes, is the best choice for business.

Bobby, you can think it a doppelganger of your brother, of his thoughts, but rest assured - I don't pay anyone for anything. I never paid Jim for my opportunity to win this belt. I did not pay to enter FPW. And I sure as hell didn't pay to whip everyone into oblivion when I came back. There's a reason that I targeted you, Bobby. Much like Bishop has had a mentor, it seems like you need someone to bring out your full potential. To be the man that CJ wanted you to be. There is a glimmer of hope, though. She did love you. She still even cares about you. But you have to be better than you have been lately. Get off the pills, stop being distracted, be a God-damned man for once and fight for what you believe in. You do that, you just might have a chance against me.

Speaking of chances, veggieleezy , where have you been? You hiding out behind the other pawns? Come out, come out, where EVER you are... Davey wants to play... He's even got a locker for you!

[botiatus]

Bo sits in an empty arena. He seated about 20 rows back from the front and the camera is a couple rows behind him showing only his back and the ring below that's currently being set up for tonight's show

"Contrary to popular belief, I have all the respect in the world for one Jim Houston. I respect what he's built here at FPW. Which is why I asked for an opportunity to enter the Free-1. Perhaps I've caused him a few headaches since then but I've only been responding to the tidal wave of attention I've seen to garner since arriving here. But Jim has finally stepped up and seems to have reeled in his 'completely under control' champion. So House Rules clearly state that I must also do the same for myself"

He stands and turns around, flashing his trademark smile before continuing

"So my focus is now entirely back where it needs to be and that's on the Free-1. Which reminds me... Aaron Williams, I think I'll be taking you up on your offer and grabbing myself a ringside seat for your qualifying match"

Bo walks off as the camera shot remains stationary, only zooming in slightly on the ring being set up before cutting off

[veggieleezy]

*Camera comes up on Jerry Bishop entering the FPW arena in his street clothes, including his signature drama mask jacket. His sister Berry approaches in a huff.*

BB: There you are, Jerry, where in the Hello Dolly have you been?

JB: Ah, good one, I'll need to remember that!

BB: Thanks, I was gonna go for Sondheim but there weren't any- Don't change the subject, young man!

JB: I'm older than you by, like-

BB: You know what I mean!

*Berry takes a deep breath*

BB: Jerry, no one has seen or heard from you in days, weeks even. The only people who have seen you are Booty-O's, Ted, that one kid who gave you his milkshake-

JB: How did you see that?

BB: -and, I can't believe I'm saying this, but that Slimy Limey himself. How could you do this to me, Jerry? To all of us who care about you, like-

JB: *cutting her off* Berry, I know this looks bad. I know that he hurt you and that can never be forgiven, nor will it ever be forgotten. But I hate to say it, he made a compelling argument. You know I haven't been at the top of my game for a while now.

BB: Sure you've been on a cold streak, but you're still good. Still a good man.

JB: And I will still be a good man.

BB: Then why did you take up with Jack the Creeper? Why is he setting up matches for you?

JB: Because... Because he said he could help me get back to where I was. To being the best in the world at what I do.

BB: I understand what you're saying to me right now, but I still don't like it.

JB: Berry, please. I know this isn't something that you approve of, and for what it's worth I'm sorry. But I need to do this. I need to do it for the Freedom Fighters. I need to give them the best Jester I can. And I haven't done that for a long time. They deserve the best Jerry Bishop possible. And right now this is the only chance I have left to make things right by them.

*Berry ponders over her brother's words before nodding slowly.*

BB: Okay, Jerry. If this is that important to you, then I won't stop you. But I want you to know that I still don't trust that British Bullfrog, and I don't think you should either.

JB: That's completely fair. He's done enough harm to both of us for me not to have me on my toes at all times. But he's been giving me some interesting advice, too. We do have a certain chemistry in the ring, whether we like to admit it or not, and he's had me training out of town with some fresh faces to keep me on my toes.

BB: Well, here's something else to keep you on your toes, your old buddy Bobby has been inserted into your match against Davey Jones for the Free-1 qualifier.

*Jerry looks shocked*

JB: He what.

BB: Yeah, you didn't hear? Davey's onboard, apparently Mr. H is onboard, they're just waiting for you to okay it, I think.

*Jerry sputters a bit trying to wrap his head around this sudden change*

JB: I gotta go, I need to find him and sort this out.

*Jerry runs off, Berry calls after him*

BB: Who ya talkin' about, Jer?

[ticktock]

Dasha Banks stands with Aaron Williams.

DB: Aaron, let’s get straight to it. Jim Houston drew the blocks for the Free-1 and if you-

AW: Whoa whoa whoa. Lalalalala. I don’t want to hear the draw at all.

DB: You don’t want to know your possible opponents?

AW: Of course I want to, Dash. I want to know more than anything... well... maybe not anything. I mean, I’d love to know if aliens exist. And I’d love to know those last couple of herbs and spices. And I’d love to... well it doesn’t matter what I’d love to do. The point is that I’m not going to look at the draw for the blocks until I’m really, truly in one of them.

DB: But you are in one of them... you’re in the-

AW: Hey, hey! Dash! What did I do to you for you to make this so hard?

Williams whispers something in Dasha’s ear.

DB: That’s what she... oh... ewwwww.

AW (laughing): Someone had to say it! Look, Dash, what I’m saying here is that I have to face Jack Sevren to even make into the Free-1. I can’t think beyond that match. Last time out, I got decimated by Davey Jones. He did a real number on me. A real number. I’m sure he’ll be prowling around with his... whatever he and Sevren are... in the ring and I appreciate Botiatus being willing to be there for me to help with him. But I have to focus on Jack because if I don’t I’ll be sitting at home throughout August watching all of these guys put on such an amazing show. I’ll be ready for Sevren and then I’ll find out who else I get to take on.

[Davey Jones]

(Audio Only)

Jerry, so nice of you to come back to the friendly confines of FPW. If you accept, I may be willing to not focus my attention on you so much. We have history. I may be crazed, but I'm not forgetful. My history with you is kinder to you than my history with Bobby has been. I've been called unhinged, controlled, and the like. But those using those terms, should instead look to one Robert Orton. One who claims he doesn't want special treatment due to his name, but would rather demand special treatment for what he believes he deserves. I know what he knows, and what the rest of the PFW world knows - he's better when he's off the pills. Better, but lacks the confidence. Bobby, I just might do all the damage, and have Jerry join me in the pin to defeat you. Wouldn't that be a disgrace to the Orton name? Pinned by both competitors in a triple threat match...

Hey Bobby - CHECK via Bishop

[kingclutch]

Dasha Banks walks into a gym. Danica Jane and Sir Richard Crowley are at ringside while Clutch is working on grappling, chain wrestling, etc. "Death > Mediocrity" can be seen in block letters on his shirt.

Dasha: Excuse me, Clutch...Can I have a moment of your time?

Jane: Absolutely not. Clutch needs to prep for the Free-1 as much as he can.

Crowley: Steven, you keep working. We'll handle matters here. You know the drill, Ms. Banks.

Dasha Banks sighs as she hands Crowley a piece of paper. Crowley reads over it.

Crowley: *points at the page* No to this one.

Dasha: So who does Clutch want to face MOST in the Free-1?

Crowley: Clutch will take on all comers. Ideally, we want to break some new ground with blood we haven't spilled before. On the other hand, a rematch with Go would be smashing. In addition to this, a match between Clutch and Jerry Bishop would be an absolute banger.

Dasha: What's on the agenda in getting Clutch prepped for the Free-1?

Danica: We're mostly working on conditioning and getting his body ready to take on the abuse that comes with the Free-1. From here on, we are pushing it further than we have before. We have an incredible regimen that I work with him on. We're training 6 days a week, roughly 5 hours each day. We've made some dietary changes as well. Clutch has the discipline to make this work.

Dasha: Clutch! Care to comment on Russ Bolt's taking legal action against you for your actions?

Crowley: Ms. Banks, I specifically stated that question was NOT to be asked!

Clutch stops what he is doing and comes down to where Dasha is, yanking the microphone from her hand.

Clutch: Hear me and hear me well. I don't give a shit with how Russ Bolt wastes his money. He knew exactly what he signed up for when he stepped in that ring. Do you think I'm going to be a little cry-baby bitch and sue him for him elbowing me in the head multiple times in college? Hell no, I'm gonna man up, shut the fuck up, and do my shit. Do what I do best. It doesn't matter whose dumb ass steps up to me in the Free-1. You know Dasha...so many people go about their mediocre lives and they settle for being average. Not me. I have made it my life's work, my life's mission to be better than the best. There is no honor, there is no GLORY in being average....Dasha....I would rather be DEAD than be average. I'm gonna win the Free-1....and if for some reason I don't...I'll die trying.

Crowley: We're done here. Ms. Banks, you need to leave.

*Dasha leaves without incident*

Danica: Come on Steve, let's get back to it.

[Davey Jones]

Davey is in MacDonald Hall, seen in a smaller room, on the phone

DJ: Yeah? ........ Ok........ Yeah................. Sure. Get me whatshisname.. BB was it? Get him on the phone....... Do you think I care what it takes? JUST F****** DO IT! Have him meet me in my courtyard in an hour................................ Good. Better be.

An hour passes

DJ (over a loudspeaker): Welcome, BB. Please follow the signage, and we will begin with the training shortly.

BB, in his motorcycle, acknowledges Davey, even though Davey can't tell he did. A few minutes later, he arrives at the spot that Davey marked. He goes into a make-shift changing room, and gets changed into training gear - a light gray teeshirt saying "Air Force" in caps on two lines, and shorts of matching color. He begins stretching and getting warmed up when Davey comes out.


DJ: BB, how kind of you to join me for a sparring session. I appreciate your assistance with getting me prepped for the Free-1. I need to be ready for everything. And everyone.
BB: Well, I appreciate the reciprocation, should this work out. I just want my foot in the door, somewhere. Anywhere. Even if it means I start off as part of the setup and tear down crew.
DJ: If you have the skill, it will show. And if it shows, I'm sure you will get hired on somewhere. Why not here, with someone that you at least know a little bit. Let's see what you got - nothing too serious to start - just some moves and reversals - some whips, clotheslines, and the like.
BB: Sounds good. Let's do this.

The two do some basic sparring. Basic holds, reversals and whips, to working on more advanced moves and turnbuckle moves. After a couple of hours, both men have worked up a sweat, putting on a pseudo-match, Davey taking the lead talking through it. 

Davey: Whip me into the ropes, set up for a backdrop. I'm going to stop short, see you set up for it, and slam your face down.
BB: Got it.

The move is performed as planned. Davey goes for the cover, and counts as if a ref is there

DJ: One........ Two....... Three! 

Davey gets up

DJ: Good session. Now, I'm going to take this camera, and film you doing a promo. Tell the world what we're going to do to Bishop and Bobby O. Well, ultimately, what I'm going to do, but say it as if you'll be a part of it. 
BB (gets noticeably nervous): ummm... are you sure? ok.
DJ: Yes. I'm sure. Ok... In 5.... 4.... 3....

Davey points to BB, unaware that the feed is going to FPW's office, instead of staying on the camera itself.

BB: I'm Brian "The Punisher". Alongside Davey, Bishop and Bobby O are going to be in a world of hurt. We're going to... Davey, I don't know about this. I can't come up with this on the spot like this...
DJ: You're going to be fine. Here, take the camera. Don't touch any buttons.

BB takes the camera. He counts Davey in like Davey did for him

DJ: Bishop, you think you're ready for the big time? You're a LOSER. You are a JOKE. And not a good one, at that. Come Sunday, you're going to be beheaded. You're going to be wishing your little amigo didn't play matchmaker for you. Sorry to give you another loss. Maybe. And Bobby - how in the hell do you think you're going to beat me? I'm stronger than you, bigger than you, smarter than you, and I even have more friends than you! Not to mention, this thing of Beaut right here. This lovely thing you will NEVER get to hold. It won't matter if it's me holding it, Jack holding it, or even if Houston's holding the belt and you have to wrestle him. You'll still lose the match! Hell, The Punisher could even whip you into oblivion if he so chose. Good luck, Bobby. Oh, and by the way... I still haven't heard back after the 'check' by Bishop.... Seems like your shaking in your wannabe boots, like normal. Why not make like Amy Winehouse? Oh, that's right - they tried to make you go to rehab, but you kept saying "No, no no". Well your addiction, your loss, my gain. I will be the winner of the match. I will go on to win it all in the Free-1 tournament. I will reign over FPW for a VERY long time!

Davey takes the camera back, turns it off, and turns back to BB

DJ: See, that's how to do a promo.  Doesn't always have to be scripted. Just something to advance the story line. But in the case of my match, everything I just said in that promo, it's not a guess, it's not a theoretical, it's a promise. BB, I liked sparring with you. I want to do this again in a day or two. Let me know when you're free, and I'll have someone else be here to act as a referee for our match. Sound good?
BB: Sure does. Same time tomorrow alright?
DJ: See you then. Keep up the good work, kid!

[marileeg17]

Marcus is sitting on a crate in the hallway, a tablet in his hands. As the camera pans over, we can see he's watching clips from last year's Free-1, as well as some of NJPW's G1 from this year. He's immersed in what he's doing that he doesn't notice Dasha and Ted until Dasha taps him on the shoulder. Marcus looks up annoyed initially, but then pauses the video and takes his headphones off.

MAJ: Can I help you? Either of you?

DB: You've been kinda...quiet lately. Not running your mouth off like usual and Jim just wanted me to get your thoughts on somethings, namely--

Marcus puts his finger up to Dasha's lips causing her to back up a little.

MAJ: Let me stop you right there. No, I didn't orchestrate what happened last week. No, I didn't know the Invaders were going to be out there. And no, I didn't even know what happened post match until after I had already left the arena.

DB: Did you have words with Haych and Dario after? If they weren't acting on your orders, did you admonish them for getting involved the way they did?

MAJ: That's not really any of your business.

DB: Actually Marcus, it is. Because, management isn't happy that for the second year in a row, your TakeOver is threatening to affect and impact the most prestigious U.S. tournament in pro wrestling. 

MAJ: If Jim wants to know, he can ask me myself. I'm not being ambushed on camera about my business. If you want to ask me questions about the Free-1 fine, but as of this moment, I'm done answering anything about TakeOver. Because here's the thing Dasha, whatever I wanted or didn't want out of TakeOver doesn't matter anymore. My focus has changed and if Haych and Dario were smart, if they actually cared about winning back the tag titles the way I care about winning the Free-1 and winning back my world title, they'd stop acting like idiots, hellbent on...whatever it is they are trying to accomplish. I don't know and I don't care. And Jim can do whatever he wants. Ban everyone from ringside for each of my Free-1 matches, whatever. This time it's about proving to myself that not only can I win this tournament, but that I can do it on my own. Make no mistake, my creation of TakeOver, it accomplished its purpose, but even a guy like me got pretty tired after awhile of everyone believing I needed them. I couldn't show the depth of my potential if I constantly had people interfering in my matches. I'd make Jim a promise, but I don't control anything anybody else does. All I can say is, I'm going into the Free-1 to win. Any other bullshit, that's on him at this point if he chooses not to take my advice and ban anyone from ringside during my matches. TakeOver members or not.

DB: Are you saying that there is no more TakeOver anymore? That Haych and Dario are working completely independently of your orders?

MAJ: Maybe you didn't listen the first time. I'm done answering questions about TakeOver. You can take that to mean or interpret it however you want.

DB: It's just, you've lied in the past and you can't blame us at FPW for wondering if this is just another game of yours...

MAJ: Maybe it is, maybe it isn't. No one is going to believe what I say either way. They aren't going to take my words to heart. I could deny TakeOver even existing anymore, all the while having backstage dealings with Haych and Dario. I could lie and say TakeOver is still under my control. It doesn't matter what I say Dasha, it matters what I do. And what I am planning to do is go into Block A, defeat every single wrestler I face, and then face the champ of Block B and beat them too. And then, I'm going to get my title match and not a moment sooner.

DB: What do you mean by that?

MAJ: I mean, I was told that as long as Graham Baker held the belt, I was done getting opportunities. Well, Baker no longer holds the belt, does he? But, I accepted my spot at the back of the line. I knew there was one backdoor way for me to get a title opportunity and it was to win the Free-1. Now things have changed. I could have joined the list of talent chomping at the bit to get their hands on Davey Jones. I could have easily put myself in his crosshairs so I'd get the first shot. But, and this might come as a surprise to you and everyone watching, I don't deserve the first shot. My mindset was simple. I didn't deserve another shot at Baker. I gave him everything I had and then some. I cheated, I played dirty. I pulled out moves I didn't even know I knew how to do. And I still lost. Kinda plays with your mind a bit. To be your absolute best, to give all you can give and still not get the job done. That's why I raised his hand, that's why I gave him his due. It wasn't the concussion, it was genuine respect, because I thought I had this guy pegged and I didn't. My mind was made up. If I was out of chances, I was going to do the next best thing. I was going to earn my way back into the conversation. Not with a title match, I proved I couldn't get it done. But I was going to run through the Free-1. Only then would I go into a rematch with Baker knowing I earned it and knowing I could change the outcome this time. Baker's not the champ, but my mindset is the same. I'm going to win the Free-1 and go into a title match with Jones knowing I can beat him. And if I don't, I'm going to work my ass off until I do. I said titles never mattered to me and the physical belts, they don't. It's what they represent. Being the best. I'm not the best right now, Jones is. But as soon as that briefcase is in my hand, things will change. I will be the best again and this time, I'll do it on my own.

Without much fanfare, Marcus just walks out of shot as Dasha gives Ted somewhat of a curious look before the camera shuts off.

[Davey Jones]

Dasha Banks catches Davey Jones in the back area, with Jack and Bobby. He motions them to his locker room as he sees Dasha coming to him.

DB: Davey, can we get --
DJ: You want my thoughts on the travesty that happened out there just now? DO YOU? Tell me something, Dasha. This match was billed as a triple threat. Right?
DB: Until the attack on Bobby, yes. But --
DJ (more visibly annoyed): Just answer the damned question! Now, what is supposed to happen in a triple threat?

Dasha starts to answer, but before she gets a word out, Davey answers himself

DJ: I'll tell you what! Triple threat means NO DISQUALIFICATION! That refereee deserves to be fired! Acting as if it is a one on one match? How many times have there been triple threats - here and elsewhere - where one of the participants haven't made it out to start the match? Did they turn into a traditional one on one match? NO!

Davey takes the mike from Dasha, who scampers off to the side, out of camera shot. Davey looks as intense as he ever has, looking directly into the camera. He gets so close, that we see just his eyes and part of his nose, and the sweat coming off of him.

DJ: Houston, you've got some 'xplanin' to do. We both know damn well I just got screwed over! Jerry did NOT win that match. I won that match and we both know it!

[Jim Houston]

Jim Houston sits at his desk with a stone-faced look. 

“Davey Jones... I suppose I do have some explaining to do. I understand your issue with the way the match went down, but I too have my issues with it. First of all, it was supposed to be a triple threat match. But let’s not forget why it ended up being a singles match. Bobby was attacked and we all know who did it. There were several people who witnessed you and Mr. Sevren emerging from the locker room minutes before Bobby was discovered. The medical team informed me that he couldn’t compete, so I removed him from the match, therefore making it a one on one match. Therefore the decision stands and Jerry Bishop is in the Free-1. Rather interestingly, that means that you, Bobby O and Jack Sevren are not in the Free-1. So here is what I propose. At the Free-1 final on Sunday September 1st, we have a match. Davey Jones versus Bobby O and, if you still hold the FPW Championship at that time, Jack Sevren will be the third competitor in what will indeed be a triple threat match. Now why do I say if you are the FPW Champion? Surely you will be. But perhaps not. On the first night of the Free-1, August 1st, you will give Graham Baker his rematch for that title.

“This brings me onto the Free-1. The schedule is as follows:

Thursday August 1st:
A: James Saturn v Marcus Allen Jones
A: Aaron Williams v Jace Mason
A: Elizabeth Karlson v Berry Bishop
FPW Championship: Davey Jones v Graham Baker

Friday August 2nd:
B: Jerry Bishop v Clutch McCloud
B: Artemis Evans v Go Shihei
B: Botiatus v Graham Baker

Saturday August 3rd:
A: James Saturn v Jace Mason

Sunday August 4th:
B: Jerry Bishop v Go Shihei

Monday August 5th:
A: Marcus Allen Jones v Elizabeth Karlson

Tuesday August 6th:
B: Clutch McCloud v Botiatus

Wednesday August 7th:
A: Berry Bishop v Aaron Williams

Thursday August 8th:
B: Artemis Evans v Graham Baker

Friday August 9th:
A: Marcus Allen Jones v Aaron Williams

Saturday August 10th:
B: Botiatus v Jerry Bishop

Sunday August 11th:
A: James Saturn v Elizabeth Karlson

Monday August 12th:
B: Graham Baker v Go Shihei

Tuesday August 13th:
A: Berry Bishop v Jace Mason

Wednesday August 14th:
B: Clutch McCloud v Artemis Evans

Thursday August 15th:
A: Berry Bishop v Marcus Allen Jones

Friday August 16th:
B: Botiatus v Go Shihei

Saturday August 17th:
A: James Saturn v Aaron Williams

Sunday August 18th:
B: Jerry Bishop v Artemis Evans

Monday August 19th:
A: Jace Mason v Elizabeth Karlson

Tuesday August 20th:
B: Clutch McCloud v Graham Baker

Saturday August 24th (order to be determined):
A: James Saturn v Berry Bishop
A: Jace Mason v Marcus Allen Jones
A: Aaron Williams v Elizabeth Karlson

Sunday August 25th (order to be determined):
B: Graham Baker v Jerry Bishop
B: Go Shihei v Clutch McCloud
B: Botiatus v Artemis Evans

Sunday September 1st:
FPW Tag Team Championships: Death Squad v Guardians of Strong Style: Deathmatch
Davey Jones v Bobby O (v Jack Sevren?)
Free-1 II Final: A Block Winner v B Block Winner
Other matches to be announced.

“So now we know. In eighteen days the Free-1 begins and I for one can not wait. If there’s anyone who wishes to suggest matches for any of the nights in addition to the scheduled Free-1 matches, I’m open to ideas, as long as they don’t have a negative bearing on the Free-1.

“Before I go, one final thing. I ask all of the FPW roster to be cautious. I will not hesitate to remove from the Free-1, or any other consequential matches, anyone who does not represent FPW in the manner I expect. In the past couple of weeks, several roster members have taken things too far, and I wish to ensure that this level of chaos does not continue.”

[Davey Jones]

A darker room is very poorly lit, and Davey's silhouette can be made out, although completely dark 

Witnesses, Jim? You claim to have witnesses that have seen me leaving his locker room? Tell me, why would I want a straight up one on one match, instead of a triple threat? Triple threat means just about anything goes. Means I could've done anything I wanted to do to either of them. Do your so called witnesses have any actual proof that I was involved in it? And after I was attacked unprovoked, at that, from Bo! What in the hell gives him the right to attack me? All I was doing was getting a better view of the action to support my business partner, Jack Sevren. Do you condone Bo's actions?

Davey's face comes into the light, and we see face paint on him, camouflage style

Bo, you best be damn ready at all times for what's to come. Your ass will be mine. Not right away, mind you, no no nonononoooooo. See, I do it any time soon, you're going to be ready for it. You won't know when, you won't know where. Hell, you won't even know if it's me that's going to do it. But enough about your pettiness and unprovoked attack.

If it were possible, Davey looks even more serious, even more pissed off than before

Baker. You and me, one more time. One more rodeo. I told you it would only be fitting that my first defense be against you in a rematch. You've earned my respect, as I'm sure I willed my respect upon you, based upon comments after our match. I hope you learned from our first encounter, Baker. I hope you're ready for me this time. I'm more than ready for you. I've been doing more training, more preparing. Hell, I've even got a new move I might try out on you - one that nobody has seen before. 

Davey stands up, lights come up, and we see an American flag flying, semi transparent with the FPW logo behind it

Welcome to the land of the Demented. Welcome, to Davey's Reign of Terror!

[botiatus]

It's hours after the Road to Free-1 show and Bo is innner of the last to leave. Having no match he decided to stay after where he bribed the stage crew to keep the ring up so he could get a full workout and practice match in. After a shower he's now in jeans and a House Rules sweatshirt with his rolling luggage behind him. As he reaches the garage Dasha comes quickly from out of nowhere with Ted and a camera

DB- "Bo do you have any comments about your actions tonight attacking the FPW Champion"

Bo has a fake puzzled look on his face and he talks in a slightly elevated and animated voice

"Attack? No I didn't attack anyone. Just like Davey said he was only getting a closer look, I was just moving him out of poor Steven's way. I mean the man is calling a fantastic match and then Davey steps right between him and the ring. How's he supposed to see with that massive statue in front of him? The match was about to end and Steven was going to miss the call and we know how much the fans would hate that. So I quickly 'moved' Davey out of the way the best I could. That's all Dasha"

Bo flashes a smile and chuckles as his voice returns to normal

"Now we all know that's about as true as that load of crap Davey fed you earlier. I told Davey that he was going to learn that he was in my house. I was a gracious host and I laid out the House Rules plain and simple. He broke House Rules so he got hit by House Rules. It's like I said before everyone else around here might fear Davey but I don't. Maybe he didn't fully know that before but he certainly does now. But after what Bobby did to him tonight, I'm sure he's got bigger problems right now anyways and I've got the Free-1 to worry about"

DB- "Do you have any thoughts on I've Free-1 now that the full schedule has been released?"

Bo- "Well I noticed that I open against the former Free-1 winner which is interesting. Despite Graham's thinly veiled jab at me the truth is I have a lot of respect for him and I expected him to be my toughest challenge in the bracket. I noticed his FPW Championship rematch is the night before our match which is unfortunate. But I seem to be the benefactor of a lot of unfortunate circumstances lately. And just like I told Bobby I know how these things go so I only worry about what I can control. So despite the fact that Graham will no doubt have an all out war the night before, the truth remains. Once that bell rings for our match, I will not show any sympathy. I'm here to win the Free-1 and I won't let anything get in my way. Now if you'll excuse me, my car is here"

A black car pulls up and Bo hops in. He rolls down the window and flashes a smile before turning the stereo up. "Famous" blares through the open window as the car pulls away

[The_Aviator_GB]

Following the final Road to Free-1 Show, Graham Baker enters a press area, holding an ice pack on his neck and the ICW World Heavyweight Championship over his shoulder. He places the belt down on the table in front of him and pulls himself into a chair.

“Let me make one thing particularly clear-all the credit in that match to Go Shihei. He gave me a hell of a beating, battered me north to south ‘round the ring, in and out, pulled me to my limit-but still, he came up short. Shihei, I know what ‘she’ told you to do, I know ‘she’ had you watch my tapes, study my moves, listen to ‘her’...but in the end, it wasn’t enough, aye? Wasn’t enough to know what you were doing when I did what I’m wont to and pulled an ace out my sleeve at the last minute. You had me, Shihei-you really did, but when I ripped the crown off your head North to South while I shredded your shoulder to pieces? Now that, my friend, was my ace.”

Baker breathes heavily for one moment as he places his hand on the plate of the ICW Championship. He taps it twice.

“You see this? My second ever world heavyweight championship, taking the place of my first in the Freedom Pro belt. I’m a fighting fuckin’ champion, so let me make it damn clear-you best me in the Free-1 clean, you get a shot at this belt. When I beat Davey Jones and get my fuckin’ strap back, y’all can have a shot at that too...bringing me to Mr. Jones, my first real challenge this Free-1.”

Baker looks dead into the camera.

“Davey, last time you beat me; and I have to show you respect-you did it clean. No bullshit, no shenanigans, you battered my ass and you won my title. However, you’ve known, like a looming ghost, that i’ve been coming for that belt again. On August 1st...it’ll be the same matchup, different result. I will do whatever I must, pull every fucking rabbit out of my hat, to put you down for good. I will tap you out, I will pin you, I will defeat you...and the long nightmare of Davey Jones will be nought but a short fuckin’ dream.”

Baker takes a moment to wipe sweat from his forehead, breathing.

“As for the Free-1 field, many I’ve encountered before, and few I haven’t. Jerry, Shihei, Clutch, Evans, Bo...y’all will put up a good fight, but you’re not gonna be able to match my speed, my heart, my drive to win the Free-1 and go undefeated two fuckin years running. You won’t be able to handle my spirit, my strikes, my submissions, and under pressure, you’ll crumble. It starts with Botiatus-the so called Man of the House, and Bo, while I respect you as a competitor, you’re gonna learn that you’re in my fuckin’ house, and the only rule is...no one gets out without paying the Ace tax.”

Baker cracks his neck.

“So come one, come all. I’m ready for a fight-are y’all?”

He grabs his championship and throws it over his shoulder as he walks off screen...