Post by Avery Quinn on Feb 28, 2022 23:04:52 GMT -5
"Lots of aspersions cast my way, but nobody ever accused me of bein' just another pretty face."
The screen is dark for a moment, the slow and calm drawl of those words peppered with just a hint of a Midwest accent. There's a muffled and muttered string of curse words before the video comes in clear, showing Lex Collins sitting on a stool. His usually unruly hair is hidden under a backwards cap that's got the name of a Toronto restaurant on it: Pho Rùa Vàng. There's a wall of framed black and white photographs behind him, some still shots from his storied career and some just artistic landscapes. There's a crooked and rueful smile on his face as he begins again, now in glorious Technicolor.
LEX COLLINS: "Sorry. It's been a while since I showed my face in one of these – usually just cut audio an' call it good enough, but I wanted you to see who's talking to you, Luca. Wanted you to get a good look at this face, at all the flaws an' imperfections that just seem to trigger guys like you. See, my career's been rough at times. There's a roadmap of scars all over my body, souvenirs I've collected on my journey. Tells me where I've been, dues I paid every time skin got busted on impact. Every one's a lesson learned, another hashmark on the wall to count a day of continued survival. But you wouldn't know about that, would you? Wouldn't know about a true test of one's mettle. Nah, see you got this "my body's a temple" bs over here but it's more like a dusty museum, this marble sculpture of perfection that's never been pushed to the limit, hidden away behind those velvet ropes."
He shrugs, tapping the side of his nose that's just a little bit crooked, like it's been broken one too many times.
LEX COLLINS: "Stop me if I hit a nerve 'cause at this point, we're just runnin' down the checklist like it's a whole 'put a finger down TikTok challenge' where to your own dismay, you find you're as cliched as that song about a white chick's Instagram. But hey, I don't gotta tell you – you know what you're about and I guess since you were technically here first, I'm comin' into your yard with the audacity of that dog that's about to take a shit, daring you to do something about it. You gonna run me off or just watch an' bitch about it later? Guess we'll see how it plays out. Truth is, this place was on my radar the last time but I was tangled up in a lot of other shit at the time. Waited too long. Missed the boat. But yeah, let's get down to business…"
He leans forward, lifting one hand to rub it over his jaw, fingers rasping over the close-cropped salt and pepper hairs of his beard.
LEX COLLINS: "My trainer once told me that 'impressive an' good enough are two totally different animals'. I didn't get it then 'cause most of the important advice goes sailin' overhead when you're so green all you wanna do is hear the crowd go insane for you instead of silence and crickets. Doesn't always happen right off. Some of us get lucky. Some of us make that magical, almost mystical connection. Others muddle through, fake it 'til they make it with this sorta Criss Angel level slight-of-mind fakery. Those are the dangerous ones 'cause you don't know what's hiding behind smoke an' mirrors. Are they good enough to hang? Or are they gonna crash an' burn – Icarus' wax wings melting when they fly too close to the sun?"
There's a derisive snort followed by a chuckle and a shake of his head.
LEX COLLINS: "When the lights come on, the ugliness is on full display – there ain't no shadows, no perfect angles to manufacture the best presentation. All or nothin', man. See, been doin' this long enough, I feel like I can spot a fake. Nine times outta ten, you'd prob'ly pass muster, maybe even intimidate with that impressive physique. I know I'm comin' at it sideways, so I'll be more direct. Five years ago, I wouldn't've seen it. I'd have gotten fixated on that slight, felt the need to defend myself endlessly and foolishly. You poke me. I bleed. It's expected and leaves no ripples in this pond. I engage 'cause idle hands itch to strike. That's all this is, man. Call me Pavlov's Pugilist. Ring a bell an' I'll throw hands. Always.
See what Ace meant was that you can suck an' still be impressive. You can look good on paper, post all those pretty pictures on social media – you can have a stat sheet that sings praises, accomplishments like the day's long but if you can't go down swingin' against the monsters out there, then you're on the wrong side of my little tale. See, I could rattle off all these reasons why I know I'm gonna put you down out there, but it's just talk. It's just wind – hot air don't burn. If I really wanna take your wings, I gotta bring heat, don't I? I gotta spit fire, incinerate the lies you used to stick 'em together."
He chuckles softly.
LEX COLLINS: "Talk's cheap so I'll leave you with this. What's gonna be your claim to fame when I mess up that perfect face of yours? You got anything to fall back on? Don't bother. We both know the answer. Fresh face, the world an oyster on a platter in front of him an' this fucked up geezer's got the audacity to act like ten years more life experience counts for something. I've got a rear-view full of wreckage an' rubble an' I'm just lightin' the match to watch it all burn. I learned my craft wrestlin' in community centers an' high school gyms. Worked my way up to legit arenas. This body, this vessel you feel like you wanna cast stones at… fuckin' carried me through the worst times an' out the other side, victorious. Fuck you, if you think you can take any of that away from me. I ain't pretty, Luca. I ain't perfect. Know what I am though?"
Eyes so dark they're almost black meet the camera, holding that gaze for a bit too long to be comfortable before he growls one last word.
LEX COLLINS: "Dangerous."
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The camera is now getting shots all over the sold out Bobby Morgan Arena in Philadelphia as the fans are all screaming with excitement for the first SAP show in years. The angle then switches to the commentary table where we see Jackson Hall, Chris Wintermute, and Judd Kover while you can see Aiden Quinn in his recliner on the left hand side of the frame.
Jackson: Hello everyone and I almost can’t believe it but we are back!
Judd: You said it man. SAP is alive and kicking and they even got the old band back together.
Chris: I still don’t know why I agreed to do this. I didn’t even like doing this the first time.
Jackson: Cause I’m assuming that it’s better than working at that cheese factory by my house?
Judd: You worked at a cheese factory?
Chris: Not worked, work.
Jackson: You’re still there? I thought you would have left for this?
Chris: Listen there’s still no guarantee this will even work out. I’ve got to play my options.
Judd: Your options of making cheese or being a wrestling announcer?
Chris: I work in the office ok, I don’t make the actual cheese.
Jackson: So what did you do, use a vacation day?
Chris: Nah, I burned through all those. So I told them I have Covid symptoms and I’m waiting on my test results.
Judd: You do understand that there’s over a thousand people here and this is going to be streamed on the SAP site and talked about all over Twitter and you think that your job isn’t going to find out?
Chris: It’s not like we’re on network tv or anything. I’ll be fine.
Jackson: Well enough of that let’s get back on track. Tonight is the first round of the Keystone Cup! We have 20 wrestlers vying for the opportunity to become the next SAP National champion. After tonight the field will be cut in half. Who moves on to the next round and who finds themselves on the outs?
Judd: The field is stacked with great talent. Some of them old faces and plenty of new ones.
Jackson: However there is one familiar face that won’t be with us as expected.
Judd: Good catch Jacks, Avery Quinn informed us a few hours ago that Luca Di Paolo was unable to make his flight today and will not be here with us.
In the background you can hear Aiden yell “fuck that dude”.
Chris: So does that mean that the senior superman is getting a bye to the next round?
Judd: I double dare you to say that to his face. Please. Pretty please.
Jackson: We have been told that a replacement has been found but that we will have to wait until the match to find out who.
Chris: Great, I’m sure it will be a disappointment much like the rest of this show will be.
Judd: Seriously why did they bring you back for this?
Jackson: They said they wanted all of us to really get the old energy back.
Judd: Who said that?
Jackson: Aiden.
Judd: I’m gonna go talk to him.
With that Judd gets up from the table and the camera moves to show the Keystone Cup itself positioned on a pedestal. Resting at the base of it is the SAP National championship.
Jackson: While Judd is doing that let’s remind you all again what is on the line here. 20 people all eyeing to be the one who will hold those up as the winner of the cup and the title.
In the background you can see Aiden and Judd arguing before the scene transitions
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In black & white are a few clips of Lexie Smith training. Her hair tied back. Her fists tapped up. Lexie training with an array of people such as Dylan, her sister Bree, her sister Millie, a former member of the SAP roster. Performing pull ups in rapid succession, kicking a personal trainer back. Performing her finisher on a new recruit at Miami, some of her previous wrestling matches. All these clips come in large and then shrink until they all fill the screen before fading to allow the Keystone Cup Tournament come in large, SAP red coloured block letters.
Backstage we find Lexie Smith with a long ponytail which features a black streak. This colour scheme is mirrored in her ring gear with a yellow and white top, exposed mid-drift and black hem dividing the white under piece around her chest and the yellow top over it. Yellow shorts with a splash of black looking like a splatter on her right leg. Lexie's name is prominent on her wrestling boots, which have been shined up. She's punching hard and fast into some pads, kicking a body pad and dishing out a spinning back kick to leg pads all worn by Mr. Dylan O'Hagen.
Dylan O'Hagen: Damn, that’s some nice intensity.
He exhales sharply, pretty taken aback by the way she hits the pads with strength. Dylan wipes his brow, before he gets set for her again.
Lexie Smith: I know. I want the win tonight. Get passed Freddie 'Single Flow' Flowie, or whatever name he wants to go by. So I'm hitting these pads like they're him, punching through him, because I want to go all the way in this tournament.
Dylan O'Hagen: I know. Trust me, you’ve got this. You’ve been training like crazy the last few months.
Lexie Smith: Thank you, Dylan.
She gives him a light, playful punch to the unproteced shoulder before getting herself a bottle of water, and chucks one to Dylan; which he catches then cracks open and takes a considerable gulp.
Lexie Smith: You know Trixie used to work here?
He furrows his brow as he takes one last sip of water before closing it with the cap.
Dylan O'Hagen: What? She did?
Lexie gives a faint little nod.
Lexie Smith: …and so there's a little part of me that's competitive
Dylan O'Hagen: So you’re trying to fill her shoes now or…
Lexie gives Dylan a quick, sharp glare and he holds his hands up apologetically.
Lexie Smith: My competitive side wants me to get this SAP accolade not just for myself, but to show my family I've still got it. I mean when I debuted elsewhere, I've been a consistent threat in the ring. I know I'm a 'forte menance'
Lexie says which Dylan hears in her french accent, but has to google that translation, tapping away at his phone before he agrees.
Lexie Smith: And I'll be just that to Flowie. I'm solely focused on SAP, I've signed exclusively here. I know he's got NVR on his schedule. Wherever else he's signed is just dividing his attention. You've seen me focus day in and day out on what?
Dylan O'Hagen: Kicking Freddie’s ass. Flowin, Flintstone, Kruger, Solomon.
Lexie smiles at the list.
Lexie Smith: Some of those are 'Fictive' (Fictional), Dylan. But I suppose to Freddie I'll be the Nightmare on 43rd Street, as we're in Philadelphia.
Dylan O'Hagen: Cut him down to size, like Mr. Kruger, baby.
Lexie Smith: Possibly, although I do have plenty in my pool to use. How's about if I do make Freddie sub, give up on the Keystone Cup I buy you an extra-long cheesesteak before we head to New York for your friend Aaron's party?
Dylan O'Hagen: Oooh, that sounds good. Real good.
Lexie smirks and replies.
Lexie Smith: Terrif.
Before she gets a hook punch on his pad he's trying to take off, before she unstraps the other one for him, with their conversation fading out as the show goes to commercial.
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Keystone Cup Opening Round Match
Freddie Florentino vs. Lexie
As the bell rings Freddie is looking confident and Lexie is looking determined. The two go through a quick feeling out process which included a strike exchange that seemed to go pretty even until Lexie managed to catch him with her “Dream Kick” (Roundhouse Kick to seated opponent's back of the head). Freddie did get a decisive attack when Lexie went in for a running knee lift but Freddie evaded it and got behind her and landed a release german suplex. From there Freddie went on to try and grind her down with submission moves but it was to no avail as Lexie was always quickly able to either find a way out or the ropes.
Freddie found his way back into the driver's seat with a jumping ddt that landed stiff. He went for a cover but only got a two count. From there Florentino went to the high rent district but regretted it when Lexie moved out of the way of his flying elbow drop attempt. From there Lexie kicked it into high gear landing a number of suplexes but any time she went for the cover Freddie was able to kick out. Once back to their feet Freddie was able to back Lexie into a corner with a combo of different chops. He then followed that up with some shoulder blocks to give himself a chance to catch a breather.
Freddie went to grab Lexie out of the corner but she snuck behind him and landed the “Lex-Plex” (Snap Japanese ocean drop). She went for the cover but only got a two. She pulled Freddie to his feet and whipped him into the ropes but it was Florentino who got the best of it when he caught Lexie with a sling blade. Freddie knew he had to keep the pressure up and quickly landed “Flowkiller” (elevated whiplash neckbreaker). Freddie was really looking to take this match in style as he now had Lexie by the hand and was beginning to walk the ropes. He lept off looking for a flying armbar but instead Lexie was able to counter it and landed her “O'Hagen Crusha” (RKO)! Lexie made the cover and got the three count!
Winner: Lexie
Jackson: What a display from both of these young talents here tonight.
Judd: It could have gone either way honestly it was just that Lexie was able to use that final momentum to work on her side.
Jackson: I totally agree Freddie has nothing to be ashamed of tonight.
Chris: What do you mean? Of course he does! He lost and he lost in the first match. Now he’s out of the tournament and has to spend the rest of the night dwelling on it. You guys are stupid.
Judd: I’m really going to hurt this guy Jackson.
Jackson: Clearly Freddie isn’t going to be happy with the outcome here Chris, we are just explaining that it wouldn’t have taken much for him to win the match as well.
Chris: Then he should have done that instead.
Jackson: Judd, I’m about to let you.
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The video starts with a shot of the American flag waving in the wind, the voice over guy speaking calmly.
VO: The American Dream is something that’s talked about a lot in this country but is it really what it’s cracked up to be? It seems that more and more Americans are struggling with themselves to determine what everyone should be thinking, believing and even doing about their own lives, let alone the collective. Where you once had a great nation that the world as a whole would look to for opportunities not afforded to them elsewhere, now we have a different option…
The camera fades out of the American Flag and comes in close on a similar image, though this is a different flag, a Canadian Flag.
VO: The true land of the free has risen up to be recognized for how great it is and in the wrestling business no country has provided more outstanding talent. Another great Canadian has taken up this mantle…
The camera then cuts from the flag to Gregory Howlett, standing proudly in the foreground, arms crossed across his chest and a smile upon his face.
Gregory: I’ve arrived in SAP and im going to set an example for all of you to follow. So sit back, relax, and you all might learn a thing or two about wrestling. Consider me your head coach, I've got a game plan and none of you are ready for me.
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The scene opens backstage. Donovan Cunningham and JaMarcus Avery are standing outside of a locker room. The door is blue. The wall behind them is white. Donovan is wearing a purple suit and red tie. JaMarcus is only wearing his black wrestling tights. His muscular body is oiled up.
Donovan Cunnigham: “PHILADELPHIA. HOW YA DOING?!”
Dononvan pauses. He rubs his hands together.
Donovan Cunnigham: “Spirit and Pride Wrestling has decided to relaunch in grand style. What better way to kickstart a brand new era than by promoting the Keystone Cup. Tournaments have been a life blood of wrestling from its conception. Running through multiple rounds, challenging competition of all sizes, styles, mentalities, it takes a real special athlete to be the last man or woman standing tall in the end. The man besides me is a once and a lifetime specimen. Look at this man!”
Donovan points to JaMarcus. JaMarcus flexes.
Donovan Cunnigham: “You mean to tell me there is one person on the SAP roster who is capable of taking this man down? JaMarcus is more than a man who has muscles on top of muscles on top of those muscles. He is an incredible athlete. Athletic. Agile. His endurance is impeccable. Bet you look at a scrawny shrimp like ARCADe with a natural assumption that all he needs to do is run around the ring like The Flash and JaMarcus will get gassed. Not a chance, dawg. Not a chance in hell. JaMarcus is too damn elite to be taken down by such naive tactics. ARCADe. Your chances of advancement are zero my friend. Do yourself a favor. Don’t show up or else you’re gonna get slaughtered.
JaMarcus crosses his arms, bringing them into his chest.
JaMarcus Avery: “Nothing personal little man, this won’t be your night. Please. Don’t listen to Donovan on this one. Show up. Barbra Strong wants to see you go down. Who am I to deny people what they want?”
JaMarcus looks at Donovan. Both men nod at each other. They fist bump. Then walk off in the same direction as the scene fades to black.
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Keystone Cup Opening Round Match
Malaya Diyosa vs. Gregory Howlett
The size difference was clear in this one before the bell even rang. However if anyone thought that was going to tell the story of the match they were clearly wrong. Right from the start Malaya used her speed and experience to get to the younger Howlett. And in quite the contrast from her first time in SAP this time the fans were behind her. This was really apparent when she landed a beautiful missile dropkick to a loud roar from the crowd.
Howlett was starting to look increasingly frustrated as Diyosa was able to stick and move while Howlett was left scrambling. Soon however he changed game plans and cornered her. Diyosa tried to sprint her way out of trouble but Howlett caught her and maneuvered her into a sidewalk slam. Howlett kept the pressure on and landed a neckbreaker followed by a grounded headlock. Howlett used his size and weight to press on Diyosa trying to wear her down. Malaya still managed to get a foot on the rope.
Once back to their feet Malaya landed a jumping calf kick that stunned Howlett. She quickly followed this up with a dropkick to one knee that dropped him down. She kipped up and followed it with a buzzsaw kick that seemed to have Howlett dazed. She quickly started to climb the turnbuckle but Greg knew that nothing good would come of that and rushed the corner slamming into her. With Malaya perched on the top rope Howlett grabbed her and connected with a massive Sitout Powerbomb and got the three count.
Winner: Gregory Howlett
Judd: This young man has a lot of skills and if those can be nurtured properly could spell big things for him in this business.
Chris: You’re really congratulating him for beating someone half his size?
Jackson: Size doesn’t always equal skill and I’m sure that will be shown tonight at some point.
Chris: I’m just saying, doesn’t seem that impressive.
Judd: If that’s the case then why don’t you go in there and show us all, or would you rather go back to making cheese?
Chris: I don’t make the cheese, I work in the office.
Jackson: I hope they don’t trust you to do payroll.
Chris: I am very trustworthy.
Judd: Most people I’ve ever heard say that aren’t trustworthy at all.
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We cut backstage where ARCADe is seen sitting in a corner on the floor playing with his Nintendo Switch an undisclosed game that – for copyright reasons, we cannot even play the music here because Nintendo would sue our asses – when he’s approached by an excited Aleks Parker for, whatever reason. ARCADe looks up to Parker, we don’t know if he’s happy, annoyed, or a mix of everything because his mask covers whatever emotion he’s showing at the interviewer approaching him.
Aleks Parker: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here with one of the newest faces in SAP, ARCADe…
The masked wrestler looks up from his Switch and seemingly puts the game on pause. Even behind the mask, we can tell he has a sense of bewilderment and is seemingly asking the question “Really? Now?”; but nevertheless the “videogame character come to life” obliges and waves at the camera, all without standing up.
Aleks Parker: On the return of SAP you’re taking on JaMarcus Avery who seems to be the favorite of our fans to take the victory against you… mostly because people don’t seem to know much about who or what you are. Care to tell us a bit?
Taking a deep breath, ARCADe stands up, turns off his Nintendo Switch, and tilts his head before he begins talking – making his best impression of an 80’s wrestler’s voice –.
ARCADe: Listen, sister…
His voice returns to his somewhat normal high-pitched; cartoonish voice as he continues.
ARCADe: I know many don’t give me much of a shot, after all… have you taken a look at Avery? The man’s muscles have muscles and I’m… just here. But you see, in wrestling – much as in video games – you can get away with things if you have a pretty sound strategy.
Parker interrupts the masked wrestler.
Aleks Parker: So, that means you DO have a strategy for this match?
ARCADe turns his head towards the interviewer and answers.
ARCADe: That’s the neat part… I don’t.
The face of bewilderment Parker showed after the wrestler’s answer is unrivaled by anyone else in the world.
ARCADe: I’m facing Dark Souls boss-level wrestlers in my first few matches back into the business. Back after a spell in which I stayed in a short-lived wrestling promotion called Lucha Infinity in the UK… back after years of just being in the local Jersey area. Of course, I have no strategy; much like the people behind SAP or all other shows happening… I don’t know why I’m doing this to myself. I was “happily” retired, I didn’t have much responsibility and somehow my stupid fucking brain kept coming at me as if I had to take over the globe one game at a time… and here we are.
Parker doesn’t even know where to begin in order to decipher everything the masked wrestler just said, so she says nothing and lets ARCADe continue without interruption.
ARCADe: I know people give me no chance because of whatever reason but can someone name a more difficult opponent than the one who has nothing to lose? Much like SAP, I came back to wrestling because… “WHY THE HECK NOT!”… who knows what’s going to happen, I’m enjoying the ride; and isn’t that the whole thing? To Have “fun”?
Aleks seems to nod at ARCADe’s question as he doesn’t let her talk and grabs the microphone.
ARCADe: So tonight, let us all play the game and let the roll-ups show us the way!
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Keystone Cup Opening Round Match
JaMarcus Avery vs. ARCADe
Once the bell rang many were surprised to see these two standing eye to eye in the center of the ring despite the clear difference in body size. We could see Avery’s mouth moving but due to ARCADe’s mask we’re not entirely sure if he was saying something back or Avery was talking alone. The time for talk however was over as Avery landed a hard right hand that sent ARCADe stumbling backwards and through the ropes. Avery makes his way over and drops down to the floor. ARCADe takes off and starts to run away. Avery begins to head after him. Donovan Cunningham tries to cut ARCADe off but instead he sees him slide through his legs instead, leaving Avery to come around the corner and bump right into his manager.
The two share a moment of frustration but settle each other’s nerves quickly. Then they look around for ARCADe only to see him coming through the ropes at them with his “In the name of…” (suicide dive). In a place like SAP where guardrails are a luxury that is not afforded the crowd goes nuts as they surround ARCADe hyping him up. But that doesn’t last long when Avery grabs him and throws him right into the ring apron. ARCADe doesn’t have long to grab at his back because Avery quickly has him again and nails a capture suplex right on the floor, and in SAP a place where mats on the floor is another luxury that is not afforded you can see why that would be a very painful experience.
After some screaming which got him absolutely nowhere the referee began to count both men out. Avery could have left ARCADe on the floor but instead picked him up and rolled him under the bottom rope. Once inside the ring himself Avery darted for the ropes and rebounded to hit a big splash on ARCADe but opted to not go for the pin. Instead he whipped ARCADe into the corner and then began to look for a superplex. What he didn’t expect was for ARCADe to fight him once up there. ARCADe managed to get in a few blows and then took his shot by standing up and jumping followed by spinning and wrapping his legs around the head of Avery. ARCADe lunged himself backwards connecting with an inverted “Press B” (Frankensteiner). The crowd popped huge and ARCADe made the cover and got the three count.
Winner: ARCADe
Jackson: Chris remember when I said size isn’t always the number one thing?
Chris: That was just pure luck.
Judd: Oh c’mon now Chris I thought you would like this guy. You both look like you play a lot of Nintendo.
Chris: Right now you’re that super old guy who calls every game system Nintendo.
Judd: Hey I’m pretty sure I was in a Super Nintendo game or two.
Chris: Now you’re really dating yourself.
Jackson: While these two continue to bicker ARCADe has pulled off what many consider to be an upset and now finds himself riding into the quarterfinals of the Keystone Cup!
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Barbara Strong: I'm so excited to have you as my new agent. I think it takes a woman to know a woman, and I appreciate you! The name is Kelly, right?
The camera pans back to show a short woman wearing a business casual grey and black plaid skirt with a matching jacket. Her dark hair was pulled into a neat bun on top of her head as she held a clipboard in her hands.
Kelly: That's correct, Miss Strong. I'm happy to be on the team. So, as you know, today we have three candidates here that would love to go on a date with you. As one of Network TV's most sought after faces, this is going to steal the show. How are you feeling?
Barbara Strong: I'm feeling great. I have a match against Cecily Bell later, but right now it's about finding love! These fans get a once in a lifetime opportunity. Let's bring them in!
Barbara sits down in a massive chair that looks like a throne, her back to the potential date. Kelly taps her fingernails on the clipboard before clearing her throat.
Kelly: So how this works is pretty simple. Our show is called Bonding with Barbara, and our potential dates will answer ONE question asked by you. Since we're at the wrestling show, we understand that at least one of these questions will be wrestling related. This should be fun! So up first is Christian Ross. He's twenty eight years old and he's from Cleveland, Ohio.
The potential date walks into the frame, wearing a suit. His blonde hair is shaved close at the back of his head, with the hair flowing a bit longer on top. His smile was perfect, not that Barbara could see it. The set around them was now lit for mood setting, with dim lighting and just before Barbara can ask the question, the man is LOW BLOWED from behind by Cecily Bell as Kelly the agent runs off, leaving Barbara assuming she's asking the question to her date, when her date was now out of capacity!
Barbara Strong: As Kelly so kindly stated earlier, I'm in high demand by every major network for a dating show. Bonding With Barbara could go global and become the hottest reality show in the world. Unfortunately for them, right now I'm one hundred percent committed to professional wrestling and Spirit and Pride. Tonight, I wrestle Cecily Bell in a Keystone Cup match. So, Christian was it? Please, tell me why I'm the favorite to win not only this match, but the entire cup? And what makes me head and shoulders better than my crazy opponent tonight?
The fans are roaring in approval as they are watching along on the big screen as a smug look was on the face of Ms.Strong as Cecily puts her hands on her hips, ready to surprise Barbara who was still facing away in her throne of a chair!
Cecily Bell: I think your opponent is useless to be honest her being crazy and all.
She chuckles a bit as she licks her lips.
Cecily Bell: Can I ask you how you feel about her?
Barbara raises a confused eyebrow before laughing.
Barbara Strong: You have a unique voice. I guess I expected more bass but hey who am I to judge? And since you asked such an appropriate questions, I can answer it.
Cecily shares blood with Becky Balfour. As sisters they are both used to failure and disappointment, so I'm assuming that Cece will be just fine after getting bounced from the Keystone Cup. How do I feel about her personally? Well, she's a little bland. And I think she could use a makeover. That whole emo, depressed thing is so My Chemical Romance and 2010. But if she wants to be behind on the times then so be it. What do you think about her?
Cecily Bell: Like I said she’s crazy. I think she doesn’t hold a candle to you.
She bites her bottom lip.
Cecily Bell: But you know she’ll be a tough competition. But you’ve got her I know it. She’ll do something stupid like jump off the turnbuckle and try to take your head off. It’s a very pretty face I hope that doesn’t happen.
She laughs a bit as she can’t barely hold her excitement.
Barbara Strong: Okay screw the rules. I don't even need to see the other two potentials. You win!
Barbara slowly stands out of the chair with a big grin on her face and turns around to see CECILY BELL standing just a few feet from her! Her skin turns pale as her mouth drops. She tries to speak but was frozen! The fans are losing their minds as Cecily stands there grinning!
Cecily Bell: Hey, pretty face how are you?
Cecily walks up close and brushes her face with a finger. She takes a deep breath.
Cecily Bell: Soon we will get in that ring together Barb and I’ll be glorious. I’ll have so much fun destroying you. Also thanks for calling the winner already.
She leans in and kisses Barbara on the forehead.
Barbara was frozen still. As Cecily slowly pulls back, Strong's bottom lip was quivering. Not only was she outsmarted, but Bell was now in her head.
Barbara Strong: I....you can't do this to me. My show is....is....is...
Cecily puts a finger on the lips of the blonde Barbie and smirks and whispers 'soon. Soon it'll all be over' before walking away, leaving Barbara still shaken up, but shouting for her new agent/assistant.
Barbara Strong: Kelly! KELLY! Where are you?! How did she....why was she allowed in here!?
She steps over the fallen potential date, Christian, and stomps off to find her agent as the fans were now more than hyped for the first round Keystone Cup match between Cecily and Barbara later tonight.
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Spirit and Pride Wrestling have finally been reborn with tonight's show featured as "Return of the Pride". The audience of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is excited to be home to one of the most prestigious and famous promotions that have opened doors for rising stars and been the home to legends. Fortunately, the National Championship has been the ultimate prize within the vicinity and the Keystone Cup tournament will house the inaugural champion to begin a new chapter under the brand. The broadcast has shifted to the production area in the backstage holding area where the resident interviewer, Aleks Parker, is stationed to begin the scheduled segment.
Aleks Parker: "Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce at this time, the first legacy in SAP Wrestling. The "22nd Century Girl" Serenity Holmes!
Right on cue, Serenity Holmes stands alongside Aleks Parker in front of the SAP Logo behind them in the view of the camera. Serenity's upright posture, engraved smile and confident poise play a big part, especially from the welcoming aura of Aleks who has had experience in working with her predecessors before.
Aleks Parker: "Serenity Holmes. Welcome to Spirit and Pride Wrestling. This is a promotion that you are a legacy which means you're following the famous career of your father, Andre Holmes. Tell us, how do you feel to be continuing the name in SAP Wrestling?"
Serenity chuckles for a little bit especially hearing the audience's positive reaction to her father's name. She knows of the history and actions he's caused in SAP Wrestling hence her confidence growing.
Serenity Holmes: "You're right. I am the legacy of my father who is the former SAP Wrestling North Atlantic Champion and former SAP Wrestling X Champion. He's dominated the competition and has been a very powerful name in SAP. So what does it mean to be the official legacy of SAP? You know what Aleks? That's what I am. I'm the Legacy of SAP. The one who is the actual future meaning that I have a legitimate household name in this promotion that carries weight where I am expected to be higher than my father was. I'm happy to be here but I'm also happy to make my mark by continuing the prestige of my family in the Keystone Cup!"
The sheer confidence and intensity have even caught Aleks by surprise but she saw the resemblance.
Aleks Parker: "Well, we are certainly glad to have you here, and speaking of the Keystone Cup, does this mean you're looking to be the National Champion for your namesake?"
Serenity's eyes had lit up and she smirked.
Serenity Holmes: "Yes and no. Of course, I would love to add that championship belt to our family's collection but I didn't spend the last three years of my life training to do things for my father. I'm doing this for myself as well. In just the three weeks I've started my professional career, I've been co-main eventing, secured the main event in another promotion, battling for championships and now I'm here as a favorite to win the Keystone Cup. This right here is my worth of actions to show that I'm not going to be like every other second-generation wrestler. I have the skills, the heritage but mostly the fire to prove what I'm worth, and that's becoming National Champion."
The audience of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has been truly enjoying this side of Serenity. Aleks enjoys the passion exemplified by the young athlete but as an interview, the controversial question had to be asked.
Aleks Parker: "And finally, your opponent will be Petra Vasquez who has already said she is a world-class athlete looking to make an impact here in SAP Wrestling by beating you. Any thoughts?"
Serenity quickly responded in a more serious tone.
Serenity Holmes: "Oh, I have much to say. Everyone wants to exaggerate themselves when they are going up against someone who has been bred for this business. Petra feels the need to be the giant, the veteran, the experienced one pretending she could teach me how the world works inside the squared circle. She has no idea what she's talking about because I've never wanted to do anything more than this. As much as I respect her, I do not respect the fact she thinks I'm going to be an easy win. I live on proving people wrong and making them swallow their pride. I bleed this and thrive on breaking the arrogance and egos of anyone who thinks they can put me down. SAP Wrestling is where I continue to grow, and I'll be damn sure to prove why you can never erase a leacy!"
With that said, she marches off from Aleks Parker who watches Serenity storm down the hallway on her way to the match.
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Keystone Cup Opening Round Match
Serenity Holmes vs. Petra Vasquez
This was a match of the fresh face against experience. As the two got to work Petra’s experience was key as she was able to telegraph a lot of Serenity’s movements. This allowed her to get into some prime positions which she used to land a few different suplexes. Serenity however was not letting any of this deter her. She used her strikes to ward off Petra’s grappling, even managing to hit a rolling elbow that sent her stumbling back into a corner.
From there we saw an elbow/kick exchange in the center of the ring that the fans really got into with boo/cheer reactions. Petra backed Serenity into a corner with some hard kicks to the chest. From there she backed up to the middle of the ring and got a running start and went for a back elbow but Serenity moved out of the way and then was able to catch Petra with a back suplex.
The fans are pounding on the apron trying to will the two back to their feet. They both slowly make it up and again start whaling on each other right in the middle of the ring. It seems as if Petra is gaining the upper hand but then Serenity hits a sweeping low kick that catches Petra right in the shins and sends her face down into the mat. Serenity quickly moves behind and locks in "Home Sweeter Holmes" (Cattle Mutilation). Petra tries to fight out but being in the center of the ring she doesn’t really have anywhere to go and verbally submits.
Winner: Serenity Holmes
Jackson: What a win for SAP’s first legacy as she advances in the Keystone Cup and is one step closer to the one title her father never held in SAP.
Judd: What negative thing do you have to say about this Chris?
Chris: Nah, that was pretty cool. It’s a feel good moment.
Jackson: Are you broken?
Chris: What? I’m not allowed to have feelings?
Judd: You have feelings, they’re just all usually negative.
Chris: I don’t know why you paint me as this monster. I’m a wonderful human being.
Judd: I’m not even going to say anything.
______________________________
We go backstage to interviewer Aleks Parker, who has just intercepted “Killer B” Bianca Reed. The blue-haired beauty pulls her sunglasses down and stares at Aleks, looking her up and down with an unimpressed look on her face.
BIANCA: Can I help you?
ALEKS: I was hoping that I could talk to you about your upcoming match with Alexis Lemon, maybe ask you a few questions?
Pushing her sunglasses up on her head, Bianca smirks and reaches into the pocket of her jacket to retrieve a pile of index cards, which she hands to Aleks.
ALEKS: What’s this?
BIANCA: The interview questions you’ll be asking me.
ALEKS: But –
BIANCA: Welp, okay, guess the interview’s over then. See you later.
Snatching her index cards back, Bianca begins to walk off but is stopped by Aleks, who rolls her eyes and takes the cards from Bianca’s hand.
ALEKS: Alright, I’ll play along.
She looks down at the card in her hand and sighs.
ALEKS: Introducing my guest at this time, the star of Spirt and Pride Wrestling, the most talked about woman on the roster, the most talented woman ever to grace this company, the Princess, Killer B, Bianca Reed.
Aleks does not look impressed, but Bianca beams with pride.
BIANCA: What a lovely introduction there, Aleks. See, maybe you’ll get good at this job after all. I believe you have some questions for me?
ALEKS: According to these index cards, apparently I do. First up, you’ve made it clear that since you’ve been given a lemon in this first round, you intend to make lemonade. How do you intend to do that?
BIANCA: It’s very simple - by beating her ass to a pulp. See, Alexis decided to focus on the wrong thing. She wanted to show off by dunking on me on Twitter - newsflash, kid, people have been doing that to me my entire career. That’s why I let you have it, cause I don’t wanna spend the time or the energy arguing with you on something you’re never going to admit you’re wrong about. I’d rather focus on things that actually matter, like winning this match and eventually this entire tournament.
ALEKS: And how do you feel about the poll results that show people are thinking that Alexis will be the one to move on in this round?
BIANCA: Fuck ‘em.
ALEKS: Excuse me?
BIANCA: Fuck ‘em. I’ve been doing this a long ass time, and at every turn people have doubted me. Even when I prove them wrong, they make excuses about it being a fluke or whatever, when the truth is that I have outworked and outlasted everyone who’s decided they want to dismiss me. Same thing’s gonna happen here. I hate to be the one to tell the fans this, but there isn’t gonna be some plucky underdog victory story here. I’m putting Alexis away and moving on to someone who hopefully is worth more of my time. Cause I don’t care how talented she is, or how clever she thinks she is. She doesn’t have the fire that I do, and she never will.
ALEKS: That’s a bold statement, isn’t it?
BIANCA: What did I tell you? Stick to the index cards, don’t blow it now.
Aleks sighs heavily again, shaking her head and rolling her eyes before flipping to the last card.
ALEKS: Finally, what can the SAP roster expect from you?
BIANCA: They should expect to stay the hell out of my way. I am not here to take part, I am here to take over. This is going to be my company, and I don’t give a shit who I have to steamroll in order to make that happen. I have gone with the flow for too long, and I’m done. This is Bianca Reed like you’ve never seen her before. This is me going full Reed. This is me taking what I have deserved for years. I am taking my spot at the top of this company, and I dare anyone to try and stop me.
Bianca sets her sunglasses back over her eyes and grabs her index cards back, stuffing them back into her jacket as she walks away.
______________________________
Keystone Cup Opening Round Match
Lex Collins vs.
As Lex was waiting in the ring you could tell he was both frustrated and disappointed in the fact that Luca was not there tonight. Even telling the fans around ringside that he was ducking him purposely. He then hung around in a corner waiting for what was going to happen next and he didn’t have to wait long.
“Skulls” by the Misfits began to play and anyone who was a fan of SAP the first time around immediately knew what was about to happen and popped loud for it. Soon you saw Joey “Bloodbath” Ortega pushing through the crowd with Stone Hemingway’s large frame hulking behind him. Wearing a Dave Shultz Flyers jersey and an unlit cigarette hanging from his mouth Ortega was in his element.
Chris: No, no, no!
Judd: If Avery and Aiden wanted the original attitude of SAP they sure picked it here with another day one.
Chris: That man is a criminal and a miscreant.
Judd: Those are some words coming from you. If there’s anyone who embodies the spirit of the broad street bullies it’s that guy right there. Fight anyone anywhere at any time.
Chris: He once held a knife to my throat for six dollars.
Judd: Jackson do you believe that?
Jackson: Joey has lived on and off with me for years. Was always fine to me.
Chris: One, he’s your brother's best friend which I don’t know how. Two, you let him in your house?!
Chris then dives under the table as Joey walks by. Ortega then rolls into the ring and throws the jersey into the crowd. The barefoot brawler now just stands there in a pair of paint stained flyers shorts. He yells at the ref to “ring the fucking bell” and the match is on.
If Lex was looking for a fight he got the right person for it. As the bell rang Joey met him in the middle and told him it was time to start swinging and Lex was more than willing to comply. The two started hammering away at each other and the crowd was a hundred and ten percent behind it. You ever just watch a match and be like “holy shit these guys are beating the fuck out of each other”? This is that. Picture that.
Lex landed a punch that hit Joey right in the mouth and his lip split, well not split, more like exploded and Joey started to bleed everywhere. But if that did anything it just made him madder. He shot a double leg but Lex sprawled and the two were now rolling around on the mat trying to find positioning and instead just rolled out to the floor. The fans were hovering over them until Stone started shoving people away to give them room. They found their way back to their feet and again started to pound on each other. The crowd began to follow them as they moved around the ringside area. Joey nailed Lex with a headbutt that sent him to the floor. The ref started to count but soon stopped when Joey yelled at him to stop that count or he was going to “choke you till you’re fucking dead”. The ref knew he had lost this one and just sat and waited.
Joey was asking for a chair but this is SAP, you know it’s more of an open floor plan. He worked his way over to the commentary table and shoved Chris off of his chair and took it. He went to swing at Lex but instead caught an uppercut to the gut that knocked the wind out of him. Lex now had the chair and swung hard catching Joey right in the head. Lex then dropped the chair and rolled Joey back in the ring, which now revealed that he was bleeding from his hairline too. Joey wasn’t going to lay there for long though as he was working his way to his feet. Lex was waiting for him and the two went back to work beating each other in the center of the ring. Except now Lex was clearly getting the better of every exchange. Joey was pouring blood like it was nobody's business and even though he was dazed his extra thick skull wouldn’t let him go down. Finally someone had seen enough as Jackson threw a SAP shirt in the ring. At first some were confused but the ref got it because where would he get a towel right now and rang the bell.
Jackson rolled into the ring and Stone wasn’t far behind. Jackson grabbed the shirt and told Joey to put it to his lip. At first he argued with him but then felt his lip and realized it was worse than he thought. The referee raised Lex’s hand but was soon shoved out of the way by Joey. The two eyed each other down for a moment before Joey reached out for a fist bump which Lex accepted. Joey then raised Lex’s hand and called him the “real fucking deal” before the medical team entered the ring.
Winner: Lex Collins
Chris: That man is a goddamn maniac and I hope he’s fined and suspended.
Judd: They’re never going to get all that blood out of that canvas.
Chris: Is that what you’re thinking about right now?! That man assaulted me.
Judd: Trust me, plenty of us are envious of that one.
Chris: Worse now he has Jackson in there trying to take care of him.
Judd: Actually let that sink in. Joey is known for being an overly brash asshole and he still has more friends than you.
Chris: I’m going to HR about this.
______________________________
eks Parker is backstage preparing for her next interview, when the ‘Phenomena’ Salem Cartier walks up.
ALEKS PARKER: Salem! So glad to finally meet you. The feeling backstage here all day has been like a livewire with new possibilities, the wrestlers and even the crew feel it. Tonight we kick off the next phase, the triumphant return of the company with the opening round of the Keystone Cup. So I have to ask, What got you interested in joining Spirit and Pride?
SALEM CARTIER: Hey Aleks, nice to meet you as well, but hey… don’t go getting starstruck. Let’s keep it purely professional alright? As to why I’m here… let’s say the stars finally aligned, a shining pentagram or something else more or less nefarious. Maybe it’s just that I saw an opportunity; right place, right time perhaps. Right here in Philadelphia tonight? It’s not the Spirit of ‘76 running rampant throughout the Bobby Morgan Arena. It’s the Spirit of ‘22 with a hint of 666. And with me involved, you know that Spirit is going to be creepy and kooky, mysterious and spooky, altogether ooky… the Gosh Dang Salem C.!
ALEKS PARKER: Well it seems like your opponent here tonight can lay some claim to the spooky factor as well, the self-proclaimed eco-witch known as Claire Lichfield. Thoughts on facing her in the first round tonight?
SALEM CARTIER: To be honest, I was a bit surprised when I saw the pairings come out. No knock on some of the other members of this roster, but we could have very well faced off against each other a round or two later in this thing. But hey, that’s how the cookie crumbles sometimes.
ALEKS PARKER: So you aren’t worried there may be an overload of witchery in that ring tonight?
SALEM CARTIER: Worried? I’m not sure that’s the word I’d use. This is not my first rodeo or even makeshift coven, as it were. Let’s lump some witches in together? Is that like witch hazing? Witch-hazel? It’s not like either of us is going to lawyer up or get Jimmy McGill involved. Oh, not that Jimmy McGill. See, tonight when Claire and I face off in Philadelphia, it’s a confluence of Scotland meets Canada. Like when Scottish businessman James McGill horned in on the fur trade in Montreal in his own spirited 1776.
ALEKS PARKER: Well that’s… certainly informative. Claire certainly brings a different demeanor to the proceedings than your easygoing quirks, am I right?
SALEM CARTIER: Look, I won’t knock the confidence she has in herself, but the self-righteousness and telling others how they should live? She can say her bit, and I can respectfully decline. Inside that ring, it doesn’t matter what food I ingest or if I’m a paper or plastic gal. There’s only one lesson: might makes right. Tonight class is in session, but it’s not McGill University… things are afoot at Miskatonic U. and I love my craft. Tonight we reanimate Spirit And Pride. Look in my eyes, what do you see? I am the Occult of Personality. Something wicked strong this way comes, and it’s all good, man! ‘Tis the Season…
Salem exits the camera view before Aleks can get another word in…
______________________________
Keystone Cup Opening Round Match
Barbara Strong vs. Cecilly Bell
The Bobby Morgan Arena was electric as the trash talking between Cecily Bell and Barbara Strong had carried over from social media and into the ring. As the bell rings, both ladies were nose to nose and running their mouths. Barbara makes the first move and puts her hand on Cecily's head and pushes her back. Cecily stumbles but doesn't fall. She opens her mouth in shock and says 'you messed up' and runs at Barbara, but Strong backtracks into the corner and ducks her head under the top rope, prompting the referee to step between them and tell Cecily to move back. Bell was upset at the cowardice shown by Strong, but as she was backing up, Strong charges out of the corner and takes Cecily to the mat with a clothesline which prompts the fans ringside to shower the rookie with boos.
Barbara makes a big rookie mistake and takes time to taunt, which gives Cecily a chance to recover. Cecily rises from the mat and surprises Barbara with a dropkick that sends her down to the mat. She pops back up to her feet and is taken down by a runningi bulldog. After driving Barbara's face into the canvas, Cecily mounts her and grabs a handful of hair and begins to slam her face into the mat repeatedly. The fans ringside are loving it, but the official intervenes and warns Cecily that if she doesn't stop, then she will be disqualified. Cecily was smart, being a five year veteran, and she lets go of the hair and rolls Barbara onto her back. She hooks a leg.
1
2
KICKOUT by the rookie!
Cecily grins, excited to inflict more pain on Strong, but Barbara wasn't as thrilled. She tries crawling away, but Bell grabs her boot and drags her back to the center of the ring. She then drops a big elbow onto the lower back of Barbara, causing her to yell out in pain. Ceciily goes for another pin but again Strong gets a shoulder up at two. This time, Cecily was a little annoyed at the persistence of the blonde brat and turns to the referee to tell him to count faster next time. This gives Barbara a chance now to slither up behind Cecily and roll her up. She grabs a handful of tights! Not like this!
1
2
KICKOUT!
Somehow, Cecily was able to kick out of the cheap pin which causes Barbara to have a mini meltdown. She stomps her feet and shout at the referee. She pokes the referee in the chest and the official says she has one more time to disrespect him and she will be disqualified. As this is happening, a furious Cecily was back on her feet. 'SILENCED'! She locks in her silenced sleeperhold! Barbara was caught off guard and she desperately reaches for a rope, but Cecily spins her around and brings her to the center of the ring. Barbara has no escape! She begins to hyperventilate as the oxygen was being cut off and she takes a knee. She then sits down as Cecily tightens the hold. The struggling from Barbara comes to a stop as her hands fall off of Cecilys arms. The fans begin to cheer as the referee lifts her hand once. It drops. The referee raises her hand a second time and once again it drops. This was it. He lifts her hand once more and before he can drop it, the potential date from earlier who was low blowed by Cecily appears at ringside. He hops onto the ring apron and Cecily lets go of the hold as Barbara crumbles to the mat, but her arm never dropped for the third time before the hold was released.
Barbara is able to get some oxygen into her body and she sits up slowly, holding her throat and telling the referee that Cecily used an illegal choke hold! As she crawls back to a corner, pleading with the referee, Cecily has the potential date by his hair as he was on the apron. But wait, someone slides into the ring...who is that!? It's KELLY! Barbara's agent that arranged the dating earlier in the night. She pulls her glasses off with a big smile on her face and as Cecily turns around to see what the noise was behind her, she's surprised by Kelly who runs and hits an aggressive spinning neckbreaker, spiking Cecily's head into the canvas! The fans begin to boo as Kelly slides out of the ring and pulls the potential off the ring apron. Barbara had the referee distracted, this was a well orchestrated plan! She tells the referee to forget it, she's fine and she scurries over to the fallen Cecily. She hooks a leg.
1
2
3!
DING DING DING!
Barbara is announced as the winner of the match and will advance in the Keystone Cup. Kelly slides into the ring and puts her glasses back on before raising Barbara's hand in victory. The rookie points down at Cecily and tells her 'I told you so, you little freak' before she's helped from the ring by her agent and now...ringside manager!?
Winner: Barbara Strong
Jackson: What an absolute cheap way to advance to the next round.
Chris: Say what you want but she used her head to get ahead in this tournament.
Judd: I know you tried to make a pun there but it was terrible, just like you trying to defend that.
Chris: My puns are great and you’re just upset that you’re never going to be able to bond with Barbara so you’re taking it out on us.
Judd: Oh and let me guess you think you’re going to be a contestant on that garbage?
Chris: It’s not garbage, it's quality entertainment and I think I would be a great contestant.
Judd: I don’t even think your mother would say you’d be a good contestant.
______________________________
With a slow fade in we see “The Huntress” standing backstage, back flat against a wall with an “SAP” banner adorning its upper half. Her arms are at her side, head rotating slowly in a circle as she rolls her shoulders with an anticipatory energy.
She turns to look down the barrel of the camera, the faintest traces of a smile present at the corners of her mouth.
HANNAH: My name is Hannah Hartman, and it’s nice to meet you.
She pauses for a moment, pausing her stretching and warmups to stand completely still and focused on her audience.
HANNAH: I don’t expect you to recognize me, though it would be nice if you did. I don’t expect you to be excited that I’m here, though I’d be flattered if you were. No, I don’t have the endless list of achievements that some of my new peers do, nor their name recognition.
She shrugs her shoulders casually.
HANNAH: I work hard though. That’s an understatement, I work my ASS off. I may have only fought in two companies before, but I gave them both everything I was capable of. I may have only held a handful of titles, but I carried them with pride, and the one territory I worked for I made into my home! So to everyone that finds me unfamiliar, hi, please be sure to understand exactly what you’re getting in me when I walk into an SAP ring for the first time…
Her voice shakes with a soft passion, a bright spirit shining through her otherwise calm demeanor.
HANNAH: I know I have a lot to prove to all of you, and I mean all of you. The fans in the building, the suits in the office and the rest of the roster in the locker room, but rest assured that I’ll do everything in my power to do it. I’m here to make you take notice, to make my name and face worth remembering… SAP represents a second chance for me, an opportunity to become everything I dreamed but failed to be the first time around… I won’t take it for granted.
She grins, wide and beaming.
HANNAH: Now if you’ll excuse me, I get to take on Jessica Matthews, and I need to make sure I’m ready. Again, my name is Hannah Hartman. It was nice to meet you.
______________________________
Keystone Cup Opening Round Match
Bianca Reed vs. Alexis Lemon
Alexis is still all smiles and giggles and the crowd has her back. Bianca on the other hand is as smug as can be and the crowd can’t stand it. The match started with Alexis going for a lock up but instead wound up with a slap across her face from Bianca. As Lemon held her face Bianca started to mouth off but that was cut short when Alexis landed a lightning quick roundhouse kick that sent Reed to the mat and now things were really on.
The two both used their quick styles to dazzle the crowd with plenty of oohs and ahhs. Their abilities were now doubted by no one but it was a koppu kick that caught Lemon right on the top of the head and sent her careening back into the corner with her head hitting the middle turnbuckle. Bianca picked her up and tried to whip her across the ring but after the initial pull out of the corner Lemon broke free and went for an enziguri but Bianca ducked it and then jumped high in the air hitting a modified inverted “Falling star” (meteora).
Reed went for the cover but Lemon kicked out. Alexis still had fight in her but you could tell she was still dazed and so could Bianca. So Reed quickly connected with a superkick that hit flush. From there Reed quickly scaled the turnbuckle and waited for the moment and connected with the “Cracker Jacker” (Diving corkscrew stunner). Bianca made the cover and got the three count.
Winner: Bianca Reed
Jackson: Bianca Reed here making a statement as she moves on to the quarterfinals of the Keystone Cup.
Chris: Did she give you a card to read that said that?
Judd: You want me to flag her over so you can ask her yourself?
Chris: I’ve been assaulted enough tonight thank you.
Judd: Well you’re sure talking like you could use some more.
Jackson: While they’re still at it the field is really starting to take shape for the quarterfinals as we only have three matches left!
______________________________
Brendan Samuels: It feels like… Home.
The black flag flies high and proud above the Bobby Morgan Arena. Sat gazing up at it from below, in a clearly pre-recorded segment is Brendan Samuels, attired in his traditionally bright Hawaiian shirt and a pair of cream khakis, his eyes cool and calm like still water. He turned to the camera, staring deep into the lens as he began to speak smoothly with that soulful Southern Irish accent of his.
Brendan Samuels: I dinnae mean that in the sense that I be in the state I call home, nor the place of me birth. But if anythin’, Spirit & Pride Wrestling be both for me. This was the place that I really kicked off me singles career, after years of tag team success in Europe an’ the southern states of America. This is the place where I had my greatest successes, the place where I won my first major singles title in North America, the place where my name was chanted loudest an’ proudest.
The Irishman gazed back up to the black flag flying once more, his mind clearly wandering and thinking long about his days in Spirit & Pride Wrestling all those years ago. Upon his shoulders were two championship belts, the Legacy Pro Tag Team Championship which he held alongside Jackie Fowler, and the Liberty Pro United States Championship. Both golden belts seemed to quinkle as the light shone down upon them.
Brendan Samuels: It was where The Wrestling was born. It’s where The Wrestling thrived.
Brendan’s demeanor changes somewhat after this, his eyes narrowing and the coldness of an iceberg on view as he confidently pats his championship titles.
Brendan Samuels: I were the most successful National Champion that SAP ever had, an’ the most successful North American Champion. Still to this day, what I did in that ring back in 2018 and 2019 were the proudest moments of my career. An’ it hurt like hell when it was stolen away.
He closed his eyes for a moment, taking in a deep breath before gazing up at that flying flag once more.
Brendan Samuels: An’ now I have a chance to live it all again. Breathe it in, feel it and grab hold of it with me bare hands. I never thought the day would come when the good ship SAP would sail the wrestling seas once more. But I always did say, that if it ever did take to the ocean once again, then I would gladly board that ship once more an’ offer me hand to the helm.
Outstretching his arms, his gold on display, he spoke confidently and proudly, his eyes firmly fixated on the camera.
Brendan Samuels: An’ so many more have come, names from the past, names from the here an’ now an’ names that could well echo out an’ become the future. All of them thinkin’ an’ believin’ that they have what it takes to become the infamous ‘Face of SAP’. But like I said all them years back, these words still ring true. Ye can be the Face of SAP, ye can be the Entertainment, the Mouth, the Joke. Be what ye will.
That smug grin of his appeared, and he began to sign off before going forth to prepare for his opening round match in the Keystone Cup Tournament.
Brendan Samuels: I'll be The Wrestling. An’ I will be National Champion once again. Dylan Shepherd, I be wishing ye luck. This is just the start of a new beginning for Spirit & Pride.
______________________________
Keystone Cup Opening Round Match
Salem Cartier vs. Claire Lichfield
The crowd was white hot for this one from the get go. The two lock up and jostle for position which allows Claire to land a drop seoi nage. She tries to go for side control but Salem was quick to get back to her feet and uses the leverage from a charging Claire to land an ipponzeoi. The two continued to grapple allowing Claire to land her “Revolution Action” (Sude Gaeshi). Lichfield went for a cover but only got a two count.
From here the action started to pick up as the two went for the quicker moves in their arsenal. Claire was able to land a few rana’s and a satellite headscissor takedown but Salem wasn’t going to be outdone also connecting with a slingshot plancha, standing moonsault, and a diving Baba chop.
The match was not starting to enter it's greuling phase as the two were starting to pull out some harder strikes. There were knees a plenty as the two went back and forth with Salem in particular landing a nasty kitchen sink. Claire saw she was starting to get in a bit of trouble and nailed Salem with a stiff dropkick to her hip that sent her spiraling down. She used this as an opportunity and connected with “Thunder Kiss ‘65” (Running Knee to the side of the head). Lichfield went for another cover but again only got a two count.
Claire was starting to get frustrated and she was determined to make sure that she took this win. Salem was still favoring her hip but knew she wasn’t out of the fight. Claire put a few more knees into Salem’s hip and then went to try and lock Salem up for the “Soul Crusher” (Bridging Regalplex). Cartier however wasn’t going to let Claire lock her hands together knowing that would really sign the end for her. Salem fought free and then nailed Claire with a headbutt using the back of her head. Lichfield stumbled back and the separation gave Salem just enough room to land the “New Hampshire Handshake” (high velocity leaping elbow strike to the jaw). Lichfield went down and so did Salem to get the cover and the three count.
Winner: Salem Cartier
Chris: Man that was some witch on witch action.
Jackson: I don’t think you can say that.
Judd: Trust me when I say he’s been waiting all night to say that. Not knowing that his pun is disrespectful to two women who could not only kick his ass but might curse it now too.
Chris: They can’t do that…can they?
Jackson: I’m not sure but I’m glad I don’t have to worry about it. Either way Salem Cartier now finds herself one step closer to the Keystone Cup and the SAP National championship!
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Keystone Cup Opening Round Match
Jessica Matthews vs. Hannah Hartman
Jess was definitely not a hundred percent heading into this match after gaining some injuries earlier in the week, but was able to convince the medical team that she was able to compete. Despite the mutual respect the two seemed to share Hannah wasn’t going to let any opportunity pass her by and was willing to use anything to her advantage.
Jess tried to catch Hannah off guard early with some rough strikes including her punch punch kick combo and some hard forearms. However she was inadvertently walking right into one of the few spots that Hannah was comfortable in. Hannah connected with some forearms and then caught Jess with a knee right to the ribs that dropped her hard. Matthews clutched at her side in pain and the ref checked on her but Jess was clear that she wasn’t going to stop.
Once back to her feet she now had to deal with Hannah knowing that she had a big hole in her armor. Hartman was clearly trying to get back to those ribs and Jess was doing all she could to defend but breathing was starting to become difficult and it was severely impacting her ability. Hannah managed to get close to Jess and landed a big belly to belly that didn’t make matters anything better for Jess.
Hannah backed up and calculated her moment. Jess slowly made her way up but when she did she wasn’t up for long as Hartman landed “4th and goal” (charging spear). Jess was now clearly in a gigantic amount of pain and Hartman knew this might be her only chance. She wrapped her arms around Matthews and lifted her up connecting with “The deadlift” (deadlift german suplex). She kept the bridge and got the three count. The crowd went silent as they didn’t expect their paladin to be out in the first round.
Winner: Hannah Hartman
Judd: You wanna talk about upsets. In our semi main event you just got as big of an upset as you’re going to get.
Jackson: Judd you’re not wrong. I’m not sure how many people had Hannah Hartman going on to the next round in their bracket but I’m sure she just busted plenty of them.
Chris: Jess should have used a cheat code.
Judd: That might have been the dumbest thing you’ve said tonight.
Jackson: Jess clearly came into this contest hurt but still gave it her all because that’s who she is and why she means so much to this company.
Chris: Ok ok, I see I hit a nerve.
Judd: Just wait till Salem hits a nerve in your voodoo doll.
Chris: What?!
Judd: Oh nothing.
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The scene cuts backstage where Dylan Shepherd can be seen already in his ring gear staring down at what looks to be a Battleship game board. The old school table top kinds. All his ships are huddled in the corner of the board, a super tactical move in the game, and he holds a game peg in hand. He looks over the top of his board at the one open across from him. The camera can’t see who is behind the other board as they are draped in shadows. Shepherd clears his throat and calls out his next shot.
Dylan Shepherd: “Okay… How about E-9?”
He waits and waits and waits, finally putting a white peg down on an almost covered board of misses.
Dylan Shepherd: “You know, I keep going and going and it’s like I’m not even playing with anyone. Do you know how difficult it is to set things in motion and get them going when it’s like no one is there to react or reply or rebuttal or even take their freaking turn?”
His voice gets a bit loud, almost whiny.
Dylan Shepherd: “Its like damn matey, you have no hits even on my board and I even figured to take things to your level since it really seems like you enjoy seaman being the Kraken and all! My only other idea is to well, but… Pirates of the Caribbean is hard to find on dvd now so I didn’t even bother getting it for us to watch.”
Dylan turns to the camera now and smiles.
Dylan Shepherd: “Hi sorry to break the fourth wall there but if you didn’t get that joke, go relisten to my last sentence or so.”
He gives a knowing wink to the camera before turning back to his game board.
Dylan Shepherd: “I won’t lie, I came into this match all shiver me Timbers and stuff cause I was getting the opportunity to share the ring with one of the big names from the last SAP run and damn if it hasn’t been a disappointment. Sure you could chalk it up to the fact that over in Liberty he’s getting his fin kicked while I’m rocking it out with successful defenses of my Anarchy Championship. Maybe he just doesn’t feel that I’m that much of a challenge and he’s gonna walk all over me. You know, that aqua fuck might just do that. But he ain’t going out unscathed.”
Shepherd lets out a chuckle now.
Dylan Shepherd: “Fact is, maybe I’ll chop off one of the kraken’s tentacles and he can walk around with a peg leg after it’s all done. Cause I’m gonna be one helluva fight in that ring… And that blood you are smelling in the water? That’s just the Krakens.”
Shepherd stands up and knocks over the opposite Battleship board.
Dylan Shepherd: “Time to stop playing, let’s get out to the ring, Kraken.”
Shepherd goes to leave the room and now we can see the person behind the opposite game board is just a knocked over Beanie Baby Octopus.
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Keystone Cup Opening Round Match
Brendan Samuels vs. Dylan Shepherd
It was now main event time and it wasn’t a Brendan Samuels match in SAP without that black flag flying high from the floor below. The crowd was chanting “Brendan” loudly but it didn’t phase Dylan one bit as he was clearly focused on this match. The two locked up and it wasn’t going to be a grappling classic for long because Dylan knew his strengths and it was going to be getting on the mat with Samuels. Shepherd got Samuels in the corner and quickly nailed a discus lariat that caught Samuels hard and off guard as he dropped in the corner.
Shepherd was going to let any opportunity slip and quickly backed up and went for a corner cannonball but Samuels rolled himself under the bottom rope as Shepherd came crashing in. Samuels rolled back in and propped Shepherd in the corner and nailed some nasty chops that echoed throughout the arena. Shepherd lifted himself up and put a boot in the former champ’s chest that sent him stumbling back. This gave Dylan a change to charge and land a spear.
Shepherd wasn’t slowing down as he got to the top rope and connected with a diving headbutt. He made the cover but only got a two count. Dylan laid in some stomps trying to wear Brendan down. Shepherd got Samuels back to his feet and went for a brainbuster but Samuels broke free and slid down his back and connected with a back suplex of his own. Samuels then tried to lock in the “Four Leaf Clover” (Texas cloverleaf) but Dylan grabbed hold of the ropes preventing the move from ever happening.
The ref called for the two to come back to their feet and Dylan caught Brendan with a surprise superkick. Shepherd followed it up with a running jumping knee that sent Brendan back into the corner. From there Shepherd tried to connect with Diamond dust but Samuels threw him from the top rope to the mat and then climbed up to land “Poseidon’s Trident” (Pointed Double Elbow Drop). Samuels went for a cover but only got a two count.
The two were wearing each other down and doing it with hard strikes. Dylan managed to land a flurry and went to cap it off with a discus lariat but Samuels ducked it and then hooked his arm. Now the real struggle began as Brendan tried to reel Shepherd in as Dylan fought for freedom. In the end Samuels won the struggle as he locked in the crossface chicken wing. From there he got his stance right and connected with “Mac Lir” (Millennium Suplex). The referee got into position and made the three count. The crowd popped huge as the black flag waved high in the air.
Jackson: What a main event and Brendan Samuels found a way to victory and now finds himself into the quarterfinals and one step closer to taking back the SAP National championship.
Judd: Both men laid it all out there. Samuels was just able to piece a few more things together to get the win.
Chris: It is way past my bedtime.
Judd: That’s really what you have to say after watching that?! That was a great match.
Chris: Yeah, sure, squid man won. Can I get back to the hotel now?
Judd: I’m really going to punch him.
Jackson: Before we catch an assault on camera I’d like to thank all of you for watching this tonight as SAP finally made it's return to the wrestling world. We will see you all for the quarterfinals of the Keystone Cup in three weeks!