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Post by Saturn on Aug 2, 2019 19:05:49 GMT
Several minutes after James Saturn's first Free-1 match, the camera opens backstage on a middle aged balding man in a suit and tie anxiously waiting backstage. After several seconds, a limping James Saturn turns the corner and the man rushes up to him, loudly yelling. "James Saturn! You have been a very hard man to get ahold of!"
"Yeah..." James grins as he leans over and spits out a bit of blood. "If you can't get ahold of me it's probably on purpose. Leave."
"It isn't funny. You've said five sentences to the public in the past two months, you've no showed multiple promotions, which I've had to bust my ass to stop you from getting fired from... The only place you've even bothered to show up to is FPW. I mean, honestly, man..."
James stands face to face with the man, his grin now completely gone. "Was I not clear enough? Get the hell away from me or I swear I'll kick your head off. Who even are you?"
The man looks puzzled as James begins to walk away. "James, I'm your agent. I have been for months."
"Well then, you're fired."
"But... No... We need to discuss your Free-1 opponents." The last bit seems to catch James' interest, who turns around and strolls slowly back towards his agent.
"What is there to discuss? Marcus was built up as the scariest guy in my block, and I beat him clean and simple. He's a rat through and through and wasn't up to par with me, he never could be. Mason's a nice guy, but he isn't up to par with me on any level. I beat the idiot back when I was trying to follow the rules and everything, now imagine what I can do when I ain't holding back. Karlson's almost exactly the same as Mason. She talks of big game, but last time we fought I beat her so bad she had to make up some stupid shit about me cheating to win because she couldn't handle being humiliated so bad. Bishop's a clown, always has been, no matter how hard she fights, and Aaron Williams... Well, to be honest, I haven't even been able to pay attention to the guy so I don't know what to expect, but I'm sure he's no match for the Paragon. Now, like I said, I'm gonna kick your head off."
Before the agent can react, James hits him hard in the face with a Superkick, sending the man into the wall and then hitting him with several ruthless kneestrikes. James walks away, still smiling, leaving the agent a shivering mess on the floor as the camer cuts to black.
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Post by The_Aviator_GB on Aug 2, 2019 19:45:55 GMT
We enter on Graham Baker leaving the arena after his loss against Botiatus in the Free-1. Dasha Banks approaches Baker from the front, but as soon as he sees her-
"No."
"Graham, please, just a wor-"
"No."
Graham keeps moving past Dasha and the FPW Camera Crew, heading toward one of the exits with his bag slung over his shoulder. He slams the door open, and one of the FPW crewmembers makes a bold move to stand in front of Baker, leading to The Aviator staring ice into Dasha's soul.
"How many fucking times do I need to say it. Get. Out. Of. My. Fucking. Way. No comments tonight."
"But-"
As if incensed one time too many, Baker whirls around and throws his gym bag into Ted Crewmember, knocking him flat over. He gets up in the camera lense as Dasha speaks.
"What the fuck do you want me to say, huh? You want a fucking statement, well here's one-Botiatus took me to my fucking limit, but that prick only got away from me because he kept fucking running. He knew that Mustang Driver would put him down, so he rolled away. He knew he couldn't tap me, so he gave up, and he beamed me, a night after a fucking title match against Davey fucking Jones, he blew my fucking brain out of my skull with that goddamn elbow of his and he held me down just long enough to score a pin. You think I'm happy with that? You think I'm satisfied? You think I'm pleased that I began my Free-1 with two goddamn losses in a fucking row, one to a giant who shouldn't STILL HAVE THAT FUCKING BELT?!
No, I'm not fucking happy, Dasha, I'm not satisfied, it doesn't tickle my fancy that I just tore the house down with Botiatus, because I walked out without a fucking victory. I said I was going to rip Bo's arm out of his goddamn socket, and hell, I might not've done that, but I showed just how piss poor his fucking submission was when he locked it in for a goddamn millenium and I still didn't fucking tap. Too loose, too poor, unrefined, unsharpened, not good enough. Bo, if you were really half the fucking man you said you were, you'd have come straight to me. You wouldn't have waited until Davey Jones beat me into the ground, you wouldn't have waited until the end of the match to try for your fancy fucking elbow, you wouldn't have done a goddamn thing but fought me your first day in the company.
You want to 'give me props' and show me respect, you're gonna have to earn that. I don't shake hands with vultures."
Baker grabs his bag from off the ground and looks to Dasha and the FPW Crew.
"Hope you feel big and strong, man. Now fuck off, you got enough words out of me."
"But what about-"
Baker gets mere inches away from the face of Dasha Banks, who cuts herself off.
"Fuck...Off."
Baker grabs his bag and heads for the exit, walking out into the night as the FPW Camera Crew help Ted Crewmember to his feet, Dasha shaking her head at the events that just transpired...
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Post by botiatus on Aug 3, 2019 0:07:05 GMT
We enter on Graham Baker leaving the arena after his loss against Botiatus in the Free-1. Dasha Banks approaches Baker from the front, but as soon as he sees her- "No." "Graham, please, just a wor-" "No." Graham keeps moving past Dasha and the FPW Camera Crew, heading toward one of the exits with his bag slung over his shoulder. He slams the door open, and one of the FPW crewmembers makes a bold move to stand in front of Baker, leading to The Aviator staring ice into Dasha's soul. "How many fucking times do I need to say it. Get. Out. Of. My. Fucking. Way. No comments tonight." "But-" As if incensed one time too many, Baker whirls around and throws his gym bag into Ted Crewmember, knocking him flat over. He gets up in the camera lense as Dasha speaks. "What the fuck do you want me to say, huh? You want a fucking statement, well here's one-Botiatus took me to my fucking limit, but that prick only got away from me because he kept fucking running. He knew that Mustang Driver would put him down, so he rolled away. He knew he couldn't tap me, so he gave up, and he beamed me, a night after a fucking title match against Davey fucking Jones, he blew my fucking brain out of my skull with that goddamn elbow of his and he held me down just long enough to score a pin. You think I'm happy with that? You think I'm satisfied? You think I'm pleased that I began my Free-1 with two goddamn losses in a fucking row, one to a giant who shouldn't STILL HAVE THAT FUCKING BELT?! No, I'm not fucking happy, Dasha, I'm not satisfied, it doesn't tickle my fancy that I just tore the house down with Botiatus, because I walked out without a fucking victory. I said I was going to rip Bo's arm out of his goddamn socket, and hell, I might not've done that, but I showed just how piss poor his fucking submission was when he locked it in for a goddamn millenium and I still didn't fucking tap. Too loose, too poor, unrefined, unsharpened, not good enough. Bo, if you were really half the fucking man you said you were, you'd have come straight to me. You wouldn't have waited until Davey Jones beat me into the ground, you wouldn't have waited until the end of the match to try for your fancy fucking elbow, you wouldn't have done a goddamn thing but fought me your first day in the company. You want to 'give me props' and show me respect, you're gonna have to earn that. I don't shake hands with vultures." Baker grabs his bag from off the ground and looks to Dasha and the FPW Crew. "Hope you feel big and strong, man. Now fuck off, you got enough words out of me." "But what about-" Baker gets mere inches away from the face of Dasha Banks, who cuts herself off. "Fuck...Off." Baker grabs his bag and heads for the exit, walking out into the night as the FPW Camera Crew help Ted Crewmember to his feet, Dasha shaking her head at the events that just transpired... Bo walks up surprising the camera crew as they continue to pull themselves together following their intense interview with Baker. Dasha looks shaken up and fumbles her words but Bo quickly cuts her off "It's fine Dasha. I saw everything that just happened. You don't have to say anything, I think you've been through enough tonight. Just hold the mic and I'll do all the work" Dasha nods as she seems to regain her composure a bit and holds up the mic "Baker is one hell of a wrestler. He was relentless from the opening bell and he did quite a number on my arm" Bo gingerly touches his now heavily wrapped arm "He forced me to switch my strategy multiple times during the match. I had to dig pretty deep into my bag of tools and even when I finally hit that elbow..." He trails off for a second replaying the match in his head "Dasha do you know how many people I've put away with that elbow? That elbow is usually when fans start heading for the exits because they know it's over. But I hit it and I didn't even waste time trying for the cover because I knew it still wasn't enough. And that's real respect. Screw all the talk and handshakes" Bo takes a deep breath "And after tonight that's the only kind of respect that Baker is getting from me. He wants to tell his version of revisionist history and call me a vulture? Maybe that elbow still has his brain scrambled but I've been asking to face an Ace from the day I got here. Baker had every chance in the world to shut me up, even before he lost that title. He never did. And he had a chance tonight and he couldn't get the job done. And you know why that is?" Bo chuckles briefly before stopping himself "I'm sorry it's just that Baker told you why he lost and he didn't realize it. And no I'm not talking about the pathetic excuse he gave of having a match last night. No no no, Baker told you he was going to rip my arm off or put me down with a Mustang Driver. In other words he had a plan A and a plan B. But I went through an entire alphabet of plans to beat him. I adjusted on the fly, over and over again. And when I finally put him down I made sure it was for good. Instead of acting like a petulant child Baker might want to learn a thing or two from me. But for now he can tuck his tail and go lick his wounds. I'll find him after the Free-1 is finished. His disrespect, not only to myself but to all of the FPW staff as well, is a blatant violation of House Rules and will be dealt with in due time. For now though it's time for me to focus on my next opponent. I'm going call my therapist to come work on this arm while I spend the next couple days doing my homework on Clutch. Thanks for the time Dasha" Bo shakes Dasha's hand and makes sure Ted is recovered before exiting through the doors to the waiting car |
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Post by The_Aviator_GB on Aug 3, 2019 17:21:37 GMT
We enter on Graham Baker leaving the arena after his loss against Botiatus in the Free-1. Dasha Banks approaches Baker from the front, but as soon as he sees her- "No." "Graham, please, just a wor-" "No." Graham keeps moving past Dasha and the FPW Camera Crew, heading toward one of the exits with his bag slung over his shoulder. He slams the door open, and one of the FPW crewmembers makes a bold move to stand in front of Baker, leading to The Aviator staring ice into Dasha's soul. "How many fucking times do I need to say it. Get. Out. Of. My. Fucking. Way. No comments tonight." "But-" As if incensed one time too many, Baker whirls around and throws his gym bag into Ted Crewmember, knocking him flat over. He gets up in the camera lense as Dasha speaks. "What the fuck do you want me to say, huh? You want a fucking statement, well here's one-Botiatus took me to my fucking limit, but that prick only got away from me because he kept fucking running. He knew that Mustang Driver would put him down, so he rolled away. He knew he couldn't tap me, so he gave up, and he beamed me, a night after a fucking title match against Davey fucking Jones, he blew my fucking brain out of my skull with that goddamn elbow of his and he held me down just long enough to score a pin. You think I'm happy with that? You think I'm satisfied? You think I'm pleased that I began my Free-1 with two goddamn losses in a fucking row, one to a giant who shouldn't STILL HAVE THAT FUCKING BELT?! No, I'm not fucking happy, Dasha, I'm not satisfied, it doesn't tickle my fancy that I just tore the house down with Botiatus, because I walked out without a fucking victory. I said I was going to rip Bo's arm out of his goddamn socket, and hell, I might not've done that, but I showed just how piss poor his fucking submission was when he locked it in for a goddamn millenium and I still didn't fucking tap. Too loose, too poor, unrefined, unsharpened, not good enough. Bo, if you were really half the fucking man you said you were, you'd have come straight to me. You wouldn't have waited until Davey Jones beat me into the ground, you wouldn't have waited until the end of the match to try for your fancy fucking elbow, you wouldn't have done a goddamn thing but fought me your first day in the company. You want to 'give me props' and show me respect, you're gonna have to earn that. I don't shake hands with vultures." Baker grabs his bag from off the ground and looks to Dasha and the FPW Crew. "Hope you feel big and strong, man. Now fuck off, you got enough words out of me." "But what about-" Baker gets mere inches away from the face of Dasha Banks, who cuts herself off. "Fuck...Off." Baker grabs his bag and heads for the exit, walking out into the night as the FPW Camera Crew help Ted Crewmember to his feet, Dasha shaking her head at the events that just transpired... Bo walks up surprising the camera crew as they continue to pull themselves together following their intense interview with Baker. Dasha looks shaken up and fumbles her words but Bo quickly cuts her off "It's fine Dasha. I saw everything that just happened. You don't have to say anything, I think you've been through enough tonight. Just hold the mic and I'll do all the work" Dasha nods as she seems to regain her composure a bit and holds up the mic "Baker is one hell of a wrestler. He was relentless from the opening bell and he did quite a number on my arm" Bo gingerly touches his now heavily wrapped arm "He forced me to switch my strategy multiple times during the match. I had to dig pretty deep into my bag of tools and even when I finally hit that elbow..." He trails off for a second replaying the match in his head "Dasha do you know how many people I've put away with that elbow? That elbow is usually when fans start heading for the exits because they know it's over. But I hit it and I didn't even waste time trying for the cover because I knew it still wasn't enough. And that's real respect. Screw all the talk and handshakes" Bo takes a deep breath "And after tonight that's the only kind of respect that Baker is getting from me. He wants to tell his version of revisionist history and call me a vulture? Maybe that elbow still has his brain scrambled but I've been asking to face an Ace from the day I got here. Baker had every chance in the world to shut me up, even before he lost that title. He never did. And he had a chance tonight and he couldn't get the job done. And you know why that is?" Bo chuckles briefly before stopping himself "I'm sorry it's just that Baker told you why he lost and he didn't realize it. And no I'm not talking about the pathetic excuse he gave of having a match last night. No no no, Baker told you he was going to rip my arm off or put me down with a Mustang Driver. In other words he had a plan A and a plan B. But I went through an entire alphabet of plans to beat him. I adjusted on the fly, over and over again. And when I finally put him down I made sure it was for good. Instead of acting like a petulant child Baker might want to learn a thing or two from me. But for now he can tuck his tail and go lick his wounds. I'll find him after the Free-1 is finished. His disrespect, not only to myself but to all of the FPW staff as well, is a blatant violation of House Rules and will be dealt with in due time. For now though it's time for me to focus on my next opponent. I'm going call my therapist to come work on this arm while I spend the next couple days doing my homework on Clutch. Thanks for the time Dasha" Bo shakes Dasha's hand and makes sure Ted is recovered before exiting through the doors to the waiting car @the_aviator_gb Nice one, Bo. Here’s a “house rule” for ya’-use my name like that again and you’ll be picking teeth out of your shit for the next month. |
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Post by Davey Jones on Aug 4, 2019 0:33:18 GMT
Dasha knocks timidly on Davey's door
DJ: Come, Dasha, and thank you.
DB: I figured with all the... special treatment.. that others have levied your way, you could use a reprieve. Here, I have extra water, and an over-abundance of Slim Jims. Have some.
Dasha takes a water, passing on the Slim Jims
DB: So, why did you ask me here?
DJ: Well, Mr. Houston has said time and again that he's got proof of me and Jack attacking Bobby before what was supposed to be a triple threat, the one that saw me out of the Free-1, right?
DB: Yeah....
DJ: I've asked a few times to see said proof, to no avail. I'm hoping that perhaps you could take up the case, and try to persuade him to release the footage. Otherwise, I may ask Clutch if I can speak to his advocate and attorney, to see if together we can compel him to show said footage. I may not have spoken about it for a bit, but I have not forgotten this injustice. In fact, I may need to start embracing my inner demons, my inner lunatic, and let him lose. I'm sure many are familiar with Mr. Balor, and his demon persona. Well, my innder demon, makes him look like a newborn baby. Stay as long as you'd like, have what you want, but I got somewhere I need to go...
Camera cuts out as Davey gets up to leave his dressing room
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Post by Jim Houston on Aug 4, 2019 14:46:34 GMT
FPW.com Exclusive
Cameras follow Jerry, Bobby and MDE backstage after Jerry’s win over Clutch.
Bobby has his arm around Jerry as MDE walks in front of them.
BO: You killed it out there man, just like I knew you would. Just like I said you would! Come on, let’s go get some of your favorite Chinese food, call up Berry, and celebrate the way you deserve. Milkshakes on me, buddy!
Jerry laughs but suddenly, MDE stops in his tracks and turns around, a look of displeasure on his face. Jerry’s face soon comes to mirror MDE’s, though his is more wrought with sadness. Bobby notices Jerry’s change in demeanor and looks back at MDE intently.
MDE: I’m sorry, are you seriously suggesting we celebrate one win? It’s Jerry’s first win in the entirety of 2019 Orton. That’s not exactly something to celebrate.
Bobby steps up to MDE, almost shielding Jerry behind him.
BO: This one win was important to him. It’s a confidence booster and one he can build off of to win this whole tournament.
MDE scoffs.
MDE: He’s got a long way to go before he can win this whole tournament and I don’t need you ruining the months of progress he and I have made to get to that point.
JB: Uh guys, I’m right here. You don’t need to talk about me like I’m not in the room… Bobby, I really appreciate the offer but we did kinda celebrate the other day and uh, MDE’s right. One win doesn’t win the Free-1. I should probably go back to the gym and prepare for my next opponent.
MDE smiles as he puts his hand on Jerry’s shoulder and looks at Bobby with a smug grin.
MDE: That’s right Jerry. You took my advice and it paid off in this match but you and I both know this tournament is grueling and it doesn’t get any easier. If we celebrated every win, we’d be, well…there’s a reason you’re in the Free-1 and others aren’t and never have been.
MDE and Bobby exchange a bitter glance before MDE begins to lead Jerry off. Jerry glances back over his shoulder at Bobby and sighs before mouthing “I’m sorry.” Bobby just nods his understanding as the cameras stop rolling.
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Post by Jim Houston on Aug 4, 2019 14:47:15 GMT
Cameras follow MDE, Jerry and Bobby once again as they head through the backstage area towards the locker room.
MDE: 40% of the job is done but there’s still the other 60. You did well but let’s not get carried away yet. Botiatus in six days time will be as tough as they come.
JB: I’ll be ready. That worked perfectly today... I’m very sore... and it hold have been nice to... never mind. Thank you.
BO: Hey- you did the work, Jer. No need to give up all the credit.
JB: I guess...
They reach the locker room door.
MDE: Get in there and get showered. Meet me by the exit in twenty minutes.
Jerry goes into the locker room and MDE turns to find Bobby staring a hole in him.
BO: I saw what happened out there.
MDE: We all did. I came up with the plan and he won because of it. Again. Just like he’ll do for the next three rounds if he keeps listening to me and if everyone else keeps out of it.
BO: No... I saw you trip Shihei when the official was looking at Mustang. If you hadn’t done that-
MDE: If I hadn’t done that, Orton, Shihei would have got back in the ring and he’d have won the match. This isn’t fun and games. This isn’t me trying to see if I can train up some shlub to test myself. This is serious. I’m in it for the long haul, not just to keep myself occupied for a month because I couldn’t hack it in qualifying for the Free-1. If I have a choice between making sure Jerry wins or risking the real possibility that he loses and all of this hard work goes down the drain because his confidence goes back to rock-bottom, guess what I’m going to pick? I’m going to pick the option where he wins and we go into the next match unbeaten. If you’d have done something else, maybe you should walk away.
BO: No, maybe you should walk away. Jerry winning by count-out? Jerry winning because his manager tripped his opponent? That’s not Jerry. You may be brainwashing him to turn him into the wrestler you could never be, but that man is still Jerry Bishop. He’s still the heart and soul of Freedom Pro Wrestling. He’s still The Jester.
MDE: So what are you going to do, Orton? Huh?
BO: Don’t worry yourself. I’m not going to tell him. Tell him now and he’ll drop back to having no confidence in himself, just like you said. But I’ll be watching you closely. Next time you do something like that, I won’t let it happen.
MDE: Good luck with that, Orton. I’m here to help Jerry get right to the top. Win the Free-1 and main event Judgement Day to win the belt. And then the sky’s the limit. Even you know how good he can be. When he hits the very top of this sport, I’ll be right behind him as the man pulling the strings whereas you’ll still be here chasing your failed career.
BO: Maybe I ought to show you how failed-
Suddenly, the locker room door opens, Jerry walks out, still in his gear, and the two fall silent. Jerry looks at them both and senses the tension in the air.
JB: Um... guys? The water’s off at the moment so I’ll just... Is everything ok?
MDE: Everything’s fine. Bobby here was just heading off.
BO: Yeah... congratulations on your win, Jester-my-man. Maybe I’ll pop along to the gym this week and see if I can’t help you out a bit myself.
JB: Yeah, that’d be awesome. See you Bobby.
MDE (to Bobby): By the way... he’s The Joker now.
MDE turns and ushers Jerry away as Bobby watches them go, shaking his head.
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Post by kingclutch on Aug 5, 2019 0:38:21 GMT
DB: Ladies and gentlemen my guests at this time: Clutch McCloud, Sir Richard Crowley, Esq., and Danica Jane. Clutch, as you well know, that was Jerry's first win of 2019. How does that make you feel about your prospects in the Free-1?
CM: Let's make one damn thing clear: Jerry did not out-wrestle me. He got lucky and took advantage of an unprepared opponent. That's a pretty shitty thing to do in my book. Any other time, I would have knocked his ass out and the clown would have been staring at the pretty lights while ref counted 3. And he would have to be CARRIED out of here. Then to add to that you have people who actually think having won one match in 2019 is some good thing. Guess what? Some of us have won 2, 3, even 4 matches. You've got a long road ahead of you Jerry but yeah *starts sarcastically clapping* I'm proud of ya. Nothing has changed. I have nothing but confidence in my ability going forward.
DB: Well, yours and Danica's. She'll be wrestling on your behalf, which I must say is some extreme dedication to a...client...
DJ: Listen, Clutch supports me and I support him. Which is important in any relationship. He trusts me to face Artemis Evans.
CM: If I may add, her training has been going really well. Always the student, wanting to learn more. We'll have her in excellent condition in time for the match.
DB: Will just be a one and done for Danica Jane?
DJ: Never say never, but we'll see. Right now my priority is getting ready for Artemis. She'll be a challenge for sure.
DB: Indeed she will.
*Danica whispers something in Clutch's ear and gives him a quick peck on the cheek before departing*
* Looking ahead, what's going through your mind having to face Botiatus, an opponent you've never faced before?
CM: Same damn thing that goes through my mind in any match: winning. Sure, there's a new challenge that comes with facing Botiatus but I've been following him really close. And one thing I know is that no one is unbeatable. And like I've always done, I will find a weakness and exploit it. After that, I'll be back in the right direction in the Free-1.
DB: The road certainly won't be any easier. Sir Richard Crowley, my last question is actually for you.
*Crowley's interest is piqued*
DB: Daley Jones has said he is considering reaching out to you regarding a potential legal conflict with Jim Houston. Care to offer any thoughts on that?
RC: Indeed. I have had my fair share of problems with promoters, Mr. Houston included. They're all "a dime a dozen" as they say. And as for you Mr. Jones, I am absolutely willing to take a look at your...situation. My time however is limited. I do have time though to resolve this before I tend to my other clients, what with the NBA off-season as well as a variety of other interests. I'll be in touch, Mr. Jones.
DB: Clutch, Sir Richard Crowley, thank you for joining me and be sure to give Danica my thanks as well.
CM: Will do, thanks Dasha
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Post by Jim Houston on Aug 5, 2019 6:53:36 GMT
Just hours before his second Free-1 match, Marcus finds himself in unfamiliar territory. Cameras follow as he stands in front of a door. Marcus takes a deep breath and knocks. Only after he moves his hand does the plate on the door reveal itself: Jim Houston.
JH: Who is it?
MAJ (another deep breath): Jim it's, it's Marcus. I was kind of hoping you had a minute to discuss something about the Free-1...
A few seconds pass before the door swings open with Jim on the other side. He and Marcus look at each other intently for a few moments before Jim steps out of the way, allowing Marcus and the cameras to follow him into the office. Jim takes a seat at his desk, instructing Marcus to sit on one of the other chairs. Marcus remains standing however.
MAJ: This will only take a minute.
Jim nods and shrugs his shoulders as if to say, "suit yourself." He shuffles a few papers on his desk before looking back at the former champ and one of his biggest adversaries.
JH: I must say, I never expected this day. I'm glad you learned how to knock this time...What do you want Marcus?
Marcus seems a bit taken back by Houston's coldness, though he's not all that surprised given how things have been between the two in the past. Instead of address it, Marcus just nods.
MAJ: Look, I know I'm not your favorite person. Probably far from it...But, whether you believe it or not, I respect the hell out of the Free-1. I always have, but this year, I'm more determined than ever to see it go off without a hitch. I set out to prove something and while the start didn't go exactly how I had planned, I meant what I've been saying all along. I won't be the one to cause any problems in this tournament. But--
JH: But?
MAJ: But...I can't speak for the actions of others... I have reason to believe TakeOver is planning something. I'm not sure what, I'm not sure whose matches will be affected but earlier Dario said something to me...Look, I've been thinking long and hard about this. I've gone back and forth on what to do. I could let the Invaders do what they want, but that wouldn't be right. I'm not a saint, but like I said, the Free-1, it means something...Winning it the right way...I need to prove something Jim and in order to do that, I have to let my wrestling do the talking, not the other stuff...You only have one choice. You have to ban TakeOver from ringside.
A slight tension fills the room as Jim intentionally waits for a few moments before speaking, taking the time to digest the information as well as the change of demeanor in Marcus.
Jim raises his eyebrow curiously as he focuses his attention on Marcus.
JH: How do I know this isn't just another game of yours? How do I know that your plan all along was to have the Invaders "banned" from ringside only to have some of your other minions get involved instead?
Marcus doesn't say anything at first. But then...
MAJ: You don't...And I don't mean that as a threat, but rather to say, you don't know if you can trust me and honestly, I can't blame you. I probably wouldn't trust me either if I were you. You'd be stupid to take me at face value given everything that happened last year...But here's the thing, whether they are on my side or not, I know the Invaders. I know TakeOver. I don't know what they are planning but I know it's something because...because, the same time last year, I would have done the same thing.
Jim nods softly.
JH: I appreciate your honesty Marcus...I'll take your request into advisement.
Marcus nods in return.
MAJ: That's all I can ask.
He goes to leave the office but as he reaches the door, Jim stops him.
JH: Good luck Marcus.
A second nod and Marcus is out of the office. As he shuts the door behind him, Jim turns to the cameraman.
JH: Keep an eye on him. I want to know exactly what happens between now and his match...Like Marcus himself said, I'd be a fool to take him at face value.
The cameraman nods.
CM: What about TakeOver?
JH: Don't worry about them. I'll take care of Marcus' friends, former or otherwise. No one is going to ruin the integrity of this tournament, no matter what.
The cameraman nods again and leaves the office.
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Post by marileeg17 on Aug 5, 2019 19:34:36 GMT
Still clutching his knee, cameras pick up on Marcus as he walks through the curtain after his match. Marcus notices Dasha and Ted, the former of whom waves him over for an interview. Gingerly and with a bit of a limp, Marcus makes his way over. He nods as Ted hands him a water bottle, which he chugs almost in one large gulp, clearly exhausting from the grueling match. Marcus positions himself to where he's not putting a lot of weight on his bad leg as Dasha begins the interview.
DB: I'm here with Marcus Allen Jones, who just picked up his first two points in the Free-1. I'm sure we all know the answer, but how does it feel to get on the board?
Marcus chuckles.
MAJ: Winning is everything, especially in this tournament. You can't have an off night and expect to make it through to the finals. I came into last year's Free-1 cocky as all hell, and why wouldn't I be? I was the Freedom Pro Champion. I had proof around my waist that I was the best man in this company. Untouchable. Unbeatable. But then what happened? I lost. On the first night of the Free-1, I lost. I lost to a guy who I never spared even one thought for that he would beat me. And while it was my second loss of the tournament that cost me my spot, starting on that note was not what was supposed to happen. So to change that, I went back. I did everything differently. I decided that I was going to change my method and my strategy. I went into the Free-1 this year, feeling more confident than ever. Last year, I was cocky, but this year, I was confident and there's a big difference to those two state of minds. But what happened Dasha? I lost. And I had to look at how I lost because a cockier Marcus probably would have gotten it done. Last year's Marcus, who did anything it took to win, who came to every match with backup and plans A-Z, would have won. But I shook that thought from my brain and said, that's not going to be how it goes down this year. So, how does it feel to finally get on the board? To start what sure as hell is going to be a winning streak to the end? It feels pretty damn great.
DB: You mentioned doing whatever it took to win last year, but this year, I think we've all seen it, especially these fans and your opponents, that you've left that behind. Some have said its a disadvantage and that you lost your edge in your quest for respect. Some have said that banning TakeOver from ringside is going to be what costs you this tournament. Some have said--
MAJ: I know what "some have said." And truthfully, I can't say it hasn't affected me. I came to FPW with one, count it, one pro wrestling match under my belt and yet, acted like I was above everyone else, better than everyone else. When the truth was, the only thing I for sure was better at was manipulating people to my cause. I used TakeOver as a mask, a way to hide the creeping insecurities that maybe just maybe, I was never quite as good as I claimed to be. And while the fans berated my cheating ways, for me, it was my shield. I didn't have to face the possibility that I wasn't the best so long as I always had a way out. And that's what ate at me the most. Self-doubt. And as cocky as I was, as damn hard as I fought, when you lose the belief in yourself its over. So that's kinda what it comes down to. I may have made a huge mistake banning TakeOver, putting an end to my affiliation with the group I created. But its my mistake to make. The only way I can go back to being the Marcus Allen Jones I know myself to be is to do this on my own. To win the Free-1 on my own. Not because I relied on interference to get it done. And you all can say its turning over a new leaf or whatever but like I told Jim earlier, I'm no saint. I'm never going to be anyone's hero. What I'm doing, I'm still doing with selfish motives. Motives that have changed a bit I must admit, but selfish nonetheless.
DB: You've mentioned your motives before. Can you explain what you mean by them changing?
MAJ: Sure. I had three items on my agenda. Go undefeated in the Free-1, get a rematch with Baker in the final, win the Free-1. I overestimated just how tough that first one would be. Losing to Saturn, it set me back. But it also propelled me forward because it made me realize I was going to have wrestle greater than I ever had. I was one win down, and in order to make it to the final, I had to be better. Lizzy, last year I said some things about how I felt wrestling a woman...Today, I realized why I was wrong to say them. Hell of an opponent. But now, its time to look forward. I've got a long list of names left before getting to the final and Baker's got the same. When I first got added to the Free-1, Baker was still the champ and I was given strict instructions. No more chances at the title so long as he was champ. He's not champ anymore, is he? But see, getting the belt back, that's his #1 focus right now and its cost him. I still want to face him in the final, but that's because he's the blemish. He's the guy who I couldn't beat, no matter what I did. Baker was the better man, but next time, he won't be. It's not about the belt with him and I, not really. Not anymore.
DB: Your next opponent, Aaron Williams, is certainly going to be a tough challenge, especially given the brutal way Karlson went after your knee. Are you at all worried that a few days won't be enough time to fully heal up?
MAJ: I wish I could lie and say I wasn't, but, as you can see, this guy is pretty fucked up right now. Karlson had a smart game plan. I don't think in the end she thought I'd be able to hit the Six Stars if she worked the knee. And you know what? It was the right call on her end because I almost couldn't. See Dasha, Dario said I wasn't willing to do whatever it took to win, but in that moment, I risked everything to get that pinfall. I didn't have much left in the tank. Had she kicked out, I'm not sure I would have been able to keep going. I threw everything I had left into one adrenaline filled moment and my body is sure as hell regretting it now but I needed to get on the board. Points are valuable, every last one. And winning is everything. I'm hopeful the few extra days in between matches will help but we'll see. No matter what though, 100 percent, 80 percent, 50 percent, I'm going to give Aaron Williams everything I have in my body. No one quits in the Free-1.
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Post by botiatus on Aug 5, 2019 21:36:53 GMT
Bo has arrived at the arena for his Free-1 match. He settles into his locker room and starts unpacking his bag when there's a knock on the door. He chuckles to himself before shouting "It's open Dasha"
Dasha walks in with Ted and the crew behind her. Bo motions to a couple of chairs and Dasha joins him for a seat
DB- "How'd you know it was me?"
Bo- "Who else would it be? I haven't exactly been making a ton of friends since I got here"
DB- "Good point. Well thank you for giving me this time"
Bo- "Of course Dasha. You're always a welcome guest at the House Of Botiatus"
DB- "Thanks. After your win over Baker you've become the talk of the FPW audience"
Bo- "Yeah that was a grueling match. Watching it back, I definitely noticed a few things to tighten up and work on. It probably wasn't the smartest idea to try and tap out Baker after the damage he'd done to my arm. I couldn't generate enough power or torque for ADT. But I have a lot of confidence in that move and in my technical wrestling in general. So it's just something I can continue to improve upon as the tournament progresses"
DB- "Speaking of which, you have a match tonight with Clutch"
Bo- "Yeah that guy is impressive. He dominated his first match so I'm not taking him lightly at all just because he lost. This is probably the most excited I've been for a match since I've gotten here"
DB- "Really? Why is that?"
Bo- "Well so far all my matches here have come under unique circumstances. There's always been a reason or an excuse for my opponent as to why they end up losing to me. I still hear the whispers from the rest of the locker and the fans too. So I feel like tonight is my opportunity to finally put all of that to bed. I have no advantages, no outside interference and no extra days of rest over my opponent. So yeah Dasha, I'm REALLY looking forward to this match"
DB- "Well I can't argue with that reasoning. Thank you for your time and good luck tonight Bo"
Bo- "It was my pleasure Dasha. Please feel free to drop by the House of Botiatus anytime"
Dasha and the crew leave and Bo is briefly seen unwrapping his arm before the door closes
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Post by veggieleezy on Aug 6, 2019 9:38:31 GMT
*Camera comes up on Berry Bishop working out in the FPW gym, her Freedom Championship placed on a bench nearby. Dasha Banks and Ted Crewmember approach her for an interview*
DB: Excuse me, Berry, but can we have a minute?
BB: For you, Dashy, I can give you several minutes! What’s up?
DB: Well, I was wondering if we could get your thoughts so far on the Free-1.
BB: Oh, it’s fantastic! Everyone loves a good tournament, and everyone gets fresh matchups to keep things interesting! I can’t wait to see how this all unfolds!
DB: I’m glad you feel so optimistic, Berry, and for what it’s worth I do believe you have what it takes to win this whole thing.
BB: Aww, thanks, Dashy! That means a lot!
*Berry gives Dasha a big hug*
DB: That being said, I do have to be objective and ask you about your match with Elizabeth Karlson.
BB: Ah, yes. Lizzie isn’t someone you can ignore. She’s good, really good. There’s a reason she’s the FPW Women’s Champion. But there’s also a reason I hold the FPW Freedom Championship. She was the better competitor in our match, and I’ll take what I can learn from that match as I go forward in this tournament.
DB:So there’s no ill will between you two?
BB: I wouldn’t say that, necessarily. Lizzie’s great, and she beat me in a match, I can respect that. If she wants to square up again later on, I am open to the challenge. She’s an asset to the locker room and to the division. But this tourney ain’t over yet, Dashy. I lost one, but I’m not out yet I’ve got a long way to go, and a short time to get there, I’m Eastbound and Down, something something Smokey and the Bandit.
DB: ... I’m sorry, you’ve totally lost me.
BB: It’s okay. Apart from the movies I picked up from our dad, my mom really gives a toss about twelve movies and she thinks Miami Vice is a documentary.
DB: Right... I do have to bring this up, though. While you haven’t picked up a win yet in the Free-1, your brother has picked up two wins so far. How do you feel about his performance so far?
BB: Well, I’m glad Mr. H put us in separate blocks, I’ll tell ya that. I love my big brother, but if we were in the same block, we wouldn’t be focusing on our matches, we’d be worrying about not hurting each other. So if the finals come down to Jerry vs. Berry, we’re all for it, but that’s beside the point. I’m glad Jerry has finally picked up some wins. He’s been in such a deep slump, in and out of the ring, I feel like he’s needed these wins as much as the fans have wanted to see him win.
DB: Do you have any thoughts about how he won those matches?
BB: He’s always prided himself on being a wild card, something you could never plan for. So I guess I understand why he’s calling himself “the Joker” now. I know there’s the comic book and movie and TV association there-
DB: Jared Leto, most recently.
*Berry gags, grabs a trash bin and vomits violently. Camera cuts to Jerry Bishop at an indeterminate location, he stops what he’s doing and violently vomits.*
BB: Please don’t ever mention that name again. That’s effectively kryptonite for clowns.
DB: Oh dear, I’m so sorry. I didn’t realize.
BB: Anyway. I love my brother. I know he’s been in a slump lately, but once he finds his groove again, I’m sure he’ll be back to the same ol’ Jester we know and love.
*Dasha looks Berry in the eyes*
DB: Do you... do you really think so?
BB: ...I certainly hope so, Dashy.
DB: He deserves to be happy, and I want to help- I mean, I want to make him ha- he’s a good guy, you know?
BB: Dashy, I know what you mean better than he could ever say.
*Dasha and Berry hug briefly before Dasha breaks off*
DB: I’m sorry, I, um, I have other interviews to do, and, um, Mr. Houston has asked me to-.
BB:*cutting Dasha off* Right, go do your thing, Dashy.
*Dasha tucks her face into her hands and exits the frame. The camera pans back over to Berry, and Berry motions for Ted Crewmember to follow Dasha. Camera fades out as Ted follows after Dasha*
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Post by ticktock on Aug 6, 2019 9:57:57 GMT
Dasha Banks stands with Aaron Williams.
DB: Aaron, we’ve just seen Botiatus claim victory over Clutch McCloud, meaning that your match with Berry Bishop is next in line for the Free-1. How have you prepared for this one?
AW: The same way I always do. I’ve been mixing up my training, some in-ring, some strength and a real focus on cardio as you really need that for a tournament like this. I’ve also watched a lot of Berry’s matches. That girl is... different outside of the ring, but she’s damn good inside of it. I’m ready for whatever she can throw at me.
DB: Do you feel like your the favourite having already picked up two points?
AW: I don’t know about that. Berry has barely lost a match this year and she has a title, something I haven’t yet managed to achieve here. I think I have the advantage in my ability to innovate and to do things Berry won’t be expecting, as well the experience edge for sure, but one Check ate and I’m down for the count.
DB: A win will see you sitting at the top of the block with two more points than anyone else as you go into your highly-anticipated match with Marcus Allen Jones. With that match so soon after this one, have you had to prepare for two opponents at the same time?
AW: I’d be lying if I said I was happy about having two matches so close together with such long gaps between my other matches as it does make preparation difficult. I’ve been focusing on Berry and then I’ll look to the Marcus match after tomorrow night is done.
DB: Do you think Berry can be fully focussed on you given what is happening with Jerry in the B Block at the moment?
AW: Berry is her own person. I’m sure she’s watching Jerry and I’m sure she has her thoughts, but she’s capable of focusing on her own matches and I’m sure she’ll be just as prepared as I am. I look forward to looking across the ring tomorrow and shaking her hand before what I’m sure will be a great match.
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Post by marileeg17 on Aug 7, 2019 3:01:56 GMT
Cameras focus in on Marcus Allen Jones training hard in a gym before zooming back out on a pair of boots walking through the door. The camera continues to follow the boots as the man walks over to where Marcus' cell phone is sat atop his bag. The phone vibrates.
Jonathan Gresham: "ROH officials are looking into your attack. I pitched them on an idea and got the greenlight. Zack's busy in Japan. If they find the guys who attacked both of us, help me get revenge. Door's open. Come back and be my tag partner to teach those guys a damn lesson."
The man chuckles as he slides the phone open and deletes the message.
…: Yeah, that won't be happening anytime soon. Sorry Gresh, I'll find a way to make it up to you.
The cameras continue following the boots as they approach the ring. Marcus finally catches sight of the man and frowns in confusion.
MAJ: Sevren...Since when do you hang out in this gym?
Cameras pull up on Jack's smug face.
JS: Ya know, it's a nice place you've found here. Though I must say, Marcus Allen Jones training at a wrestling school is never quite the image I had of pro wrestling's self-declared chosen one.
Jack walks around the ring before hopping through the ropes, facing Marcus. Jack advances but Marcus doesn't back down. The stare down continues a few moments but then Marcus just laughs and turns away. He walks to the corner and grabs a new roll of tape which he begins attaching to his wrists. He bites off a piece, ripping it from the roll.
MAJ: If it's a light spar you're looking for, I'm happy to oblige but unlike you Jack, I've got a Free-1 to win. So come back some other time and you and I can get in the ring. How's that sound?
Jack just smirks as he steps back, relaxing into the corner.
JS: I should have expected a patronizing response like that. As you said, you're no hero, no saint...Neither am I. Tried it for a bit, never quite felt right. In due time, you'll come around to the same way of thinking.
Marcus ignores him so Jack continues.
JS: I must say though, you mistook my reason for coming here. I don't want a match with you. Truthfully, I'm stepping back from the ring these days. What good is a wrestler who won't compete for a title? Davey as champion is my priority and that's why I'm here.
Marcus perks up a bit as he looks at Jack who just sports an even bigger more obnoxious grin than before.
JS: I figured that would get your attention...See Marcus, from one former champ to another, I know you're full of shit when you say Davey's belt isn't on your mind. You're about the Free-1 these days and winning, but you're not fooling anybody. We all know what winning the Free-1 grants you. It grants you a shot. A shot you never would have gotten had Davey not done what you or anyone else around here couldn't. And he did it on his first try. Honestly Marcus you should be thanking us. Sending a gift basket maybe, lots of slim jims and I like a nice bottle of scotch. We got the belt off Baker and now, you can challenge for the title. And that's what I want Marcus. I want a main event of Jones vs Jones. I want Davey tested against one of the best FPW has ever had to offer...And then, when you fail, I want something else…
MAJ: Oh yeah, and what is that?
JS: A simple request really. I get you a title match. And you get me something in return. A little quid pro quo...If Davey wins, you--
Jack pauses as he notices the cameras. He walks over and whispers in Marcus' ear causing the former champ to grimace a bit.
MAJ: You can't seriously think I'd ever...Besides, you don't have the authority to give me a title match. If I win the Free-1, that's how I get my title match. So if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go back to training so I can do exactly that.
Marcus turns away from Jack and finishes taping up his wrists as Jack just laughs.
JS: One day you'll change your mind. A phoenix, after all, always rises from the ashes…
Marcus freezes and tenses up, turning sharply back to look at Jack
MAJ: What did you just say?
Jack laughs again.
JS: You embedded your insurgents everywhere, places I worked before coming here, people I know. I know Marcus...I know all of it. TakeOver will rise again.
Jack rolls out of the ring as Marcus looks concerned and frustrated as he looks back at him. Jack just smirks as he flashes Marcus the TakeOver sign and laughs. Marcus can't make heads or tails of it but he knows something is going on. He tries to shake it off but it's clear the head games of Dario and now Jack have had their intended effect.
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Post by botiatus on Aug 7, 2019 3:44:40 GMT
Bo walks through the curtain after sharing one last H.O.B. chant with the fans following his victory over Clutch. He walks up to the camera in the post match interview area and stops as the pain in his arm forces him to briefly wince. He quickly smiles off the pain and wipes the sweat from his dripping face before speaking
"The time for talk is over, the time for doubt is over. I had no advantages tonight, in fact I was at a disadvantage. But Clutch and his crooked associates learned the hard way that when you break House Rules you pay the price"
Bo begins to pace a bit as he switches gears
"Now I have my first official match with Jer-rry Bis-hop. I've been watching Jerry ever since our unofficial match. Most of the roster I haven't taken too kindly to but I like Jerry. So Jerry I'm gonna do you a favor this Saturday"
Bo gets right into the camera
"I'm gonna tear the fucking roof off with you"
Bo backs away and flashes a smile
"I faced you last time and you nearly kicked my damn head off. I could sense the moments when a wrong move would've cost me the match. You kept me on my toes. And you know what Jerry, you didn't need anybody at ringside to tell you how to do that. You just went in there and did what you know how to do. That's the real Jerry and that's the Jerry I want to face. You don't need your hand held for this one so just come down to the ring alone and let's give these fans the match they deserve. Let's leave them delirious because they're not sure whether they want to chant JER-RRY BIS-HOP or H.O.B. The choice is yours"
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