Retribution Press Conference

[James Peterson]

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[wwjbcd]

James Peterson: And first off, we have FSW's own Johnny Bonecrusher, who despite only being contractually obligated to defending the Global Championship here in the NJFC, has a penchant for setting the mood at these conferences. Ladies and gentlemen, Canada's Greatest Athlete.

The various folks in attendance clap politely, as none other than The Pre-Millennium Wrestler himself comes on out, this time with his very much real Global Championship, which he rests just beyond the microphones. Johnny adjusts the mic as per usual, clears his throat, then slowly rests his hands onto the podium.

Johnny Bonecrusher: Ladies and gentlemen, members of the press, Mr. Peterson... the granddaddy of them all in the realm of Japanese pro wrestling has come and gone! Stardom lived up to its name, making or breaking some of the biggest names this industry's produced! In my case, 'Iceman' Stefan Raab gave it his all, took the fight to Yours Truly, but in the end, the ladder to success can only hold one person at a time. That person is your retaining Global Champion and Canada's Greatest Athlete! If winning this thing in the first place in a battle royal could be considered a fluke, then taking down a legend like Stefan should have alleviated all doubt. And if that's still not enough for some of the - what do the kids say these days? - saltier folks in the back, then watch, watch what The Johnny does to that lily-livered.. yella-bellied.. no-good.. no-class.. two-faced.. panty-waisted.. pencil-necked geek two-faced slimy opportunist- what was his name again?

Some folks chuckle at that.

Johnny Bonecrusher: No, I know his name. Kurt Newman. Not a day goes by where I don't think about his senseless act of chicanery back at Global Takeover. He wanted to make an impact. He wanted to come back in a big way. Well, he managed to beat Shelley and Olivia, so I guess you've got your wish then, huh? Speaking of questions, you folks got any for Yours Truly?

Several raise their hands, only one is chosen.

Johnny Bonecrusher: Yeah, you in the yellow tie.

Eric Carmichael: Eric Carmichael, The Province newspaper. With very few wrestlers from BC, do you think the heat is on you in order to represent the province on a global scale?

Johnny Bonecrusher: Well, first of all, Eric, there's a lot more of us than you think! 'Gorgeous' Michelle Starr, The Mighty I-Ton, 'Mad Dog' Marty Sugar, 'Street Fighter' Timothy Flowers, the WWF's own Earthquake lived a city away from me in Surrey, and let's not forget the man whose nickname I was bestowed with, the original 'Canada's Greatest Athlete', the legendary Gene Kiniski! And those names are just the tip of the iceberg! There's at least six promotions running out of various territories in British Columbia, so wrestling's going strong there and has been since the '60's, starting with the first run of All-Star Wrestling, a promotion that died in '89 but was reborn in 2007. Hell, I've done commentary for them, heh, albeit unofficially, but never mind that. But going back to whether there's some excess stress in being in the NJFC and representing my home province, well maybe not, but as a wrestler from New Westminster born and raised, a city that's been host to many wrestling events in the past but has- I think I might be the only one from New West proper, actually! So in that case, sure, I'm the only representative they've got, but look how I've been carrying myself in that ring. Look at what I've accomplished so early in 2016. It might not seem like much, but it's a big deal to me, so if that heat on me is motivating me to push myself, then by damn, all the better. Push me to bigger and badder titles while you're at it!

Anyone else?

More hands go up and Johnny picks one out.

Johnny Bonecrusher: You with the over-sized pencil.

Andre Gagne: Andre Gagne, The New Orleans Advocate. At Retribution later on this month, you're back in the main event, and finally get the opportunity to get your hands on Kurt Newman. Despite the way he went about returning to wrestling, do you think retribution could be on his mind going into your match?

Johnny looks a bit annoyed. His eye twitches momentarily. He inhales deeply before letting it out noisily. He shakes his head with confidence.

Johnny Bonecrusher: Andre Gagne... let me make one thing... PERFECTLY CLEAR: Kurt Newman is a spineless jellyfish! If he had attacked, say, Jason Davidson or Luke Wolfe, then he'd have made an impact worth getting his ass beat over. Ambushing me, ambushing Stefan Raab, all it did was reveal his true colours to the fans that he claims to respect. We're supposed to be on the - pardon my language - same fucking side, and yet Kurt Newman is so selfish, so thoughtless, so stupid as to disrupt a moment that was meant for me. For Raab. For the fans, man! That was a conscious effort on his part. Unfortunately for him, his conscious effort's going to result in an unconscious jabroni! No, Andre, if anyone's out for retribution, it's me! Kurt's not sorry for what he did, but rest assured, he'll be sorry for what he did! Anyone else?

More hands, one chosen.

Johnny Bonecrusher: You wearing a hat indoors.

Amelia Post: Amelia Post, The Guardian newspaper. If you wind up victorious again, what's on the horizon for Johnny Bonecrusher in the NJFC?

Johnny Bonecrusher: When I put that conniving rat in his place, nothing else changes: I'm still just a visitor here, as my main priority lie in becoming the FSW Champion some day. Then the EWC Undisputed Heavyweight Champion. But hey, you know something? If I get a shot at the GPC World Heavyweight Championship, you'd best believe that I'm not gonna turn down an opportunity to smack the bullshit out of Davidson's mouth.

But first, Kurt Newman.

Johnny then heads down to the wrestlers' section.

[Luke Wolfe]

“Evil Ways” by Blue Saraceno hits before James Peterson can even say a word. Suddenly the lights dim down to a pitch black inside the press conference, the press start flashing pictures wildly trying to make sense of what is going on. Suddenly the music abruptly stops and lights come back on, and Luke Wolfe is standing nose to nose with James Peterson.

James Peterson: Luke, this isn’t the time or the place—

Luke quickly covers up the mic on the podium and begins to exchange words with Peterson. The press is going crazy as Peterson becomes hot under the collar, even pointing a finger in Luke’s face. The two continue to exchange words, Peterson sticks a finger in Luke’s face once more as he walks past him, as Luke just watches him walk away. He takes his hand off the mic and takes a spot behind the podium. Trevor Ulmer from Sports Entertainment Media stands up.

Trevor Ulmer (SEM): Luke! Please... First I think I speak for everyone, when I say that was an amazing entrance! It caught all of us off guard, but I think that had more to do with James Peterson than with all of us. Can you tell us please! What was that all about???

Luke Wolfe: We just don’t see eye to eye. James doesn’t like the way I do things, he wants me to be a good boy for him and his company. Bottom line is, I upsets his happiness. Case and point… He sent the man who helped me form Anarchy’16, James Kash down to Ringside at Stardom I to “Teach me some manners”.

Trevor Ulmer (SEM): And on that note, what happens now?

Luke laughs to himself.

Luke Wolfe: Kash used us, to get his revenge on someone who he couldn’t beat, and then he took his ball and he went home… Or should I say… To this God forsaken place. Anarchy’16 became what it was truly meant to be, and we started making noise around the world, and surprise, surprise then he wanted to jump back on. I told Kash when he left, that he didn’t want to make enemies out of us, and he didn’t take me seriously, SO… Now, we take the war global, I told them that they didn’t want me to bring Anarchy’16 here, and all I have to say is… Be careful what you wish for.

Another reporter stands up, its Darrin Karns from TMZ International.

Darrin Karns (TMZ): What about you’re upcoming match at Redemption? Can we expect redemption from you after your loss at Stardom?

Luke Wolfe: Really my loss at Stardom was tainted to say the least, I was on the fast track to taking down a guy whose best insult was that he didn’t know my name, even though it was clearly printed on the card. All he did was prove that he couldn’t read. I wrestled circles around both of those guys at Stardom, till Kash came down and got involved in my match, and I let myself become distracted, and that was on me, that was my fault. My only redemption will come when I show Kash just what a mistake he has made. As far as Eric Darkthorne and Stephen Raab go, I have no personal gripe with either man, But… *sigh* unfortunately I’m going to have to hurt them. Next question…

The press start to buzz when after Luke claimed that he was going to hurt the other competitors in the match.

Darrin Karns (TMZ): Um… If you could… Just elaborate on what you mean by you’re going to “hurt them”…

Luke Wolfe: What’s confusing about that? It’s unfortunate for them… I mean, it’s not their fault, but Kash and Peterson thought they could make an example out of me, so I’m going to have to make an example out of the rest of the talent who call this place home. It’s gonna be a bloody mess… Next question…

Steve Hargis from CNN Headline News stands up.

Steve Hargis (CNN): Are you at all concerned with the raw power of Stefan Raab going into this match?

Luke Wolfe: No…

Luke shakes his head shrugging his shoulders.

Luke Wolfe: This isn’t a deadlift match, this is professional wrestling, this is a sport where people get hurt. If he wants to showcase his deadlift ability he should be in the business of the World’s Strongest Man contest. Bottom line he shouldn’t even be in this business, his wrestling skills are novice at best… I grew up in this world, and worked my way up from the bottom, all be it faster than most, but I’ve wrestled and fought where the lights shined the brightest and I never blinked an eye. These wrestlers here in the NJFC don’t take me seriously and that’s going lead to the failure of the talent here. Things are going to get violent really soon here in the NJFC, and if you don’t want to get caught in the crossfire get out of the way.

Steve Hargis (CNN): What about the relatively unknown Eric Darkthorne?

Luke Wolfe: Okay listen, I’m not taking these guys lightly… I’m not a damn fool, I know this isn’t going to be an easy five minute win. But these guys have never been in the ring with me before, and there isn’t anyone on the planet that can prepare you for me. At the end, the stars will fall and the sky will become dark, you’re not afraid of the dark are you?

Luke says with an evil grin as he walks off stage…

Steve Hargis (CNN): Luke—LUKE! What does that mean???

All the press in the room jump up out of their chairs all shouting questions all at once, but Luke is gone…

[Kurt Newman]

JP: Alright, well we had the Global Champion say his two cents, now let's get his opponent to come up here and say some words. Without further adieu, may I introduce to you, Kurt Newman.


The press room goes crazy with light flashes as Kurt makes his way into the room. With a smile on his face, Kurt walks to a chair and looks out at the sea of reporters.


KN: "First and foremost I respect Johnny and what he's done for this industry. He's been in the business for a very long time and he's not afraid to tell you about it. He's done it all and he's the first with a lot of things. He surprised everyone, including myself, last month after he beat Raab in that ladder match. I lost some money because of that match."


Kurt lets out a chuckle as the rest of the press room chuckles also.


KN: "Now let's get to the real meat of this part of the press conference. The part where I take the gloves off and tell Johnny how I......really feel about him. Now in my humble opinion, NJFC is making great progress in the wrestling world and its only going to continue to be a great success.......as long as the right person is at the head of this company.....and that person is me. You need to have someone that looks like the face of the company. You have to look like a champion. You have to act like a champion. You have to have a personality that people will flock to and pay good money to see both live and on television. These characteristics are not......I repeat.....are not characteristics that Johnny has. When you look at Johnny, you see a scary looking dude who has the face and the personality of a dog with rabies. He's an individual that you don't want your kids to idolize and grow up to be. A man that lives in the past and is to afraid to grow up. The whole grunge look was awesome.......back in the 90s......this is 2016 Johnny. The way you wrestle, the way you talk, the way you look......it screams the 90s Johnny and people today don't want to look at a historical figure such as yourself when they see a wrestler. Ok, they can see old timers play the same gimmick in bingo halls in the middle of Idaho. They want to see someone who represents the here and now. The people today, they want to see new wrestling moves that make them go holly shit. They want to see new personalities that haven't been seen or even attempted before. They want to see someone that's willing to evolve with the times."


Kurt pauses as he takes a sip of water. Suddenly, Kurt spits out what water he had in his mouth to the front row. Kurt, who's just as surprised as everyone else wipes the water from his mouth and gives a slight grin as he uncomfortably apologizes to the reporters.


KN: "Sorry about that folks......swallowed wrong. Now where was I?"


Kurt screws the top back on his water bottle as he looks back at the crowd.


KN: "You've done great things while being the Global Champion Johnny.....but you don't have what it takes to bring NJFC to the promise land. See Johnny wrestling is nothing more than entertainment. People watch what we do to be entertained. They want to forget about life for awhile and not think about their own blah existence. Sorry to be so blunt and forth coming about this but it's true. They want to forget about their crappy work and all the people that tick them off."


Kurt suddenly lets out a loud groan that fills the room. Kurt quickly plays cool and acts like nothing happened as he goes back to talking.


KN: "When they see you Johnny, they can't help but think about their own life's. When they see you they see this short normal looking fella with a round belly and a terrible orange spray on tan. You talk like a normal person, dress like one, and act just.....like.....a....normal.......person. When they see me though......they see the person they want to be. They see a sexy beast with a chiseled six pack and a personality that everyone loves and wishes they had. I talk how people want to talk, dress like how people want to dress, and live a life that people want to live."


By now, Kurt is sweating up a storm and can hardly control himself as he adjust himself in his chair.


KN: You've hit your peak Johnny. Now it's time for someone who's actually taken companies to the promise land of legendary promotions to take over and make this fed great. It's time that Kurt Newman takes that Global Title and makes it a belt that actually has meaning behind it. Further more I'm.........."


Before Kurt can say another word, he lets out a huge scream of joy. Everyone in the room looks concerned as Kurt shakes in his seat. Strangely enough Kurt has a huge smile on his face and lets out a chuckle as he looks at all the eyes staring back at him.


KN: "You might be "Canada's Greatest Athlete" ........but this is Japan......"


Kurt pauses as a huge smile comes to his face as he looks into the sea of reporters.


KN: "........and I'm huge in Japan. Thanks for listening folk."


Kurt raises his hand and waves goodbye as press people rush up to the table and try to ask questions. As Kurt stands up though, we can see that Kurt is naked from the waist down. Kurt doesn't care though as he waddles his way out of the room. Shortly after Kurt leaves, a Japanese female in her early 20s emerges from behind the table and wipes her mouth with her forearm.

[Ryan Crews]

Sitting in a crowded room, behind a table with a black cloth covering the table, reporters fill the room. Ryan Crews sits alone at the table in front of a NJFC banner. With bottles of water sitting next to him on the table, I look out at the reporters.

A reporter slowly rises up, he has his iPad in hand, with a recorder in the other hand.

Reporter #1: Ryan Crews, this is your first match in sometime, and your first match in NJFC. Do you feel you'll be prepared?

Ryan Crews: With all due respect, you clearly don't know who I am. I'll be more than ready. I could lay out of the ring for twenty years, and be ready for any match.

Another reporter rises up, he looks confused, he adjust his glasses before asking his question.

Reporter #2: Ryan Crews, I'm with wrestling stars monthly. What is your comments on your opponents?

Ryan chuckles.

Ryan Crews: I have no comment on my opponents. I don't think either of them are even worthy of me mentioning their names. That's what I think of my opponents.

The reporter looks shocked.

Reporter #2: Ryan Crews, that has to be one of the cockiest attitudes I've ever heard.

Ryan shrugs his shoulders.

Ryan Crews: I don't care what you think of my attitude, now sit down little man you've asked your question, sit down.

The next reporter a woman stands up, she looks at her notepad.

Reporter #3: Ryan Crews, what has been your training reimagine to prepare for this match?

Ryan takes a drink of water from his bottle, sitting down, he clears his throat.

Ryan Crews: I've been working out with my brother, twice a day, four days a week. During the first part of the day we lift, the second part of the day we work out in the ring.

Reporter #3: Has your brother been pushing you?

Ryan Crews: Yes, he knows how good I am, he wants me to be the best version of myself.

The next reporter stands up, clears his throat asking his question.

Reporter #4: Ryan Crews, we heard you discuss earlier that your opponents weren't even worth naming. Do you think that sort of attitude will come back to back fire?

Ryan laughs.

Ryan Crews: That was a stupid question. No, it won't. I'm the best, all of you know it, soon all of NJFC will know it. My opponents are two losers plain and simple. They don't deserve to be in the ring with me, much less have their names mentioned along side mine.

Reporter #4: Do you think your opponents will get upset over this?

Ryan Crews: I could care less.

The reporter turns walking off in shock.

Ryan Crews: You guys keep asking me about my opponents, I know their names, I choose not to name them along side my name. Its how it is plain and simple. I don't care who these two are, I will defeat them at the end of the day their names will be footnotes in my career as two losers NJFC put across the ring from me.

Another reporter stands up to ask a question.

Reporter #5: What if you lose? then what?

Ryan slaps the table laughing, he leans back in his chair.

Ryan Crews: Someone escort this idiot out of here for asking a stupid question. To answer your question. I won't lose, you're looking at the winner of my match at Retribution.

Ryan pushes his hands off the table pushing himself up out of his chair.

Ryan Crews: This press conference is over.

Ryan walks off, the reporters talk to one another talking about what they've just saw and heard.

[Tara Davidson]

James Peterson - At this time, it is my pleasure to bring out to the stage the reigning GPC Jnr Heavyweight champion... Tara Davidson!

The crowd in attendance comes to life with all kinds of different responses, ranging from whistling to jeers and the ever constant clicking noise of the cameras wanting to snap as many pictures as possible. The sound of "Blood" by In This Moment fills the entire room as Tara Davidson steps out from behind the curtains with her GPC Jnr Heavyweight championship belt placed over her left shoulder. There is a smile which is tugging at the corners of her mouth as she rests her hand up against the golden plate of the championship belt. She accepts the microphone that has been handed to her with her free hand, but takes her time to walk across the stage so that everyone can get a good look at the golden prize she displays upon her shoulder. It is not until the sound of the music fades out that Tara brings the microphone up to her lips.

Tara Davidson - The King is dead. Now the Queen begins her reign.

She allows for the words to sink in as she takes in a deep breath. Almost as if she is soaking up this entire moment and makes sure to adjust her championship belt up higher upon her shoulder. It had been quite the battle for her to even be able to hold her championship belt in her hands. Rest assured that she was going to soak up all of it now that the golden object of all her desires was firmly within her possession.

Tara Davidson - I tried to warn poor Flip, but he wouldn't listen, and now he's nothing more than a distant memory in the rear view mirror as I move forward to focus upon the next opponent in my line of vision. An opponent that seemed to be quite questionable if one was to base their opinion solely upon what someone says on their Twitter.

She draws another breath like she is about to continue speaking, but a reporter steps closer towards the stage as he interrupts her current train of thought.

Reporter - Are you saying that there is no merit to the claims of Bronx Valescence that he is finished with the wrestling business for good?

Tara Davidson - I'm not going to argue against any claim that he made on his Twitter. The one thing that I do know for sure is that Bronx Valescence is going to be there at Retribution. He's damn near crippled and that might make this match his very last, but he is going to be there, all because he's got lust in his eyes when he looks over towards MY championship belt. I can hardly blame him for wanting this championship belt, after all, I damn near tried to remove Flip Frields out of NJFC permanently all just so I could be able to hold the championship belt I knew that I deserved in my hands. It's for that reason alone that I find myself having some sense of respect for Bronx Valescence heading into Retribution.

She pauses for another brief moment waiting for the words to sink in for all the reporters listening.

Tara Davidson - However respect is not going to be enough, while the mind is clearly willing, the body is what is most important of all inside of the wrestling ring. I know how important it is for Bronx to prove himself to be more than just the simple running gag all across Twitter, but he's not showing himself to be too smart here heading into Retribution. I'm at a 100% before we've even stepped foot inside of the ring. Bronx is barely at 50% at best. Does that not sound like the odds are going to be stacked against him before that bell has even rung? All for the sake of a match which isn't even for my championship belt. Even if Bronx manages to pull off the victory against me, perhaps securing himself an actual shot for the championship belt, but that will come at a serious cost. Bronx might not even be able to last long enough to see this match happen in the first place.

Reporter - It almost sounds like you don't see Bronx Valescence to be a serious threat at Retribution.

Tara Davidson - I'm simply being realistic. That's what a good champion does.

That is all she needs to say in regards to the subject as she tosses the microphone over towards to the side. Now that her hands are free, she uses one to raise her GPC Jnr Heavyweight championship belt up high above her head, bringing a smile to her face as all of the reporters and other members of the audience take pictures of the proud champion standing there in the middle of the stage.

[Kurt Newman]

The room is quit for a few minutes until a familiar face makes his way over to the podium. It's none other than Chris Constantine as he gets behind the podium and looks at the reporters. Dressed in his usual business suit, Chris takes a quick sip of water before talking.


CC: "Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Chris Constantine and I'm a manger for such talents as Kurt Newman, Jack Tillman, and Andrew Wilkow. Now some of you might remember me from my time here before with NJFC when I managed Jack Tillman. Well Jack is wrestling over in Germany right now and since Kurt and NJFC have such a close bond, we decided to bring another one of our newly graduated talents from Kurt Newman's wrestling school to NJFC. So I'm proud to bring out, whom Kurt and myself feel will be the next great wrestler of the industry, Marshall Smith."


The cameras flash as a tall and muscular black man makes his way and stands next to Chris who still stands at the podium.


CC: "Now unlike Smiths opponents for this week, Smith is an actual wrestler. He sleeps, breathes, and thinks about wrestling. It is his full time job. He's been trained by the very best and he's traveled the world perfecting his trade. Smith is not a gimmick wrestler. Smith is an individual that when he speaks, his actions will back up his words. Smith is the real deal and he's not afraid to back it up in that ring.


Now Smith is still new to the industry and he still has a lot to learn but everyone in our camp is confident that Smith is ready. And we're even more confident that Smith will get his first victory in his first official match here in Japan because when we look at Smiths opponents, we don't see wrestlers. We don't see mind blowing athletes. We don't even see anyone that good. We see Smith facing off against two gimmick wrestlers with 2 months of training under their belts. So we're more than confident that our man Marshall Smith will get the job done."


Chris looks over at Marshall and motions him over to the podium. With a serious expression on his face, Marshall stands behind the podium and begins to talk.


MS: "Still new to this whole talking in front of a crowd like this so hopefully I'll do ok. But I'm not about talking because that's not what I've been trained to do. Kurt never taught me how to talk in front of a microphone because talking for a promo is the least important thing when it comes to wrestling. Words.....words can't hurt someone physically. Words can't help you in a match. Telling someone that they are a loser can't knock someone out. Words mean nothing to me. That's why Kurt trained me in that ring. That's why Kurt kicked my ass both mentally in physically in that ring. To toughen me up. To get me ready for this moment. Right here. Right now. I've been training since I was 14 for this very moment. Ever since Kurt Newman picked me up from the streets of St. Louis, he put me under his arms and taught me everything I would need to know in that ring. He pushed me. Made me strong. Made me dig deep and showed me what it meant to be a real professional wrestler. I'm 100 percent committed and I'm ready to compete.


Now Alpluachra hasn't said anything and hopefully she'll make it for our match. But the dude, Ryan Crews, likes to talk. He likes to talk a lot. Likes to say how great he is and how he's going to dominate the match. I truly hope he's as much as a bad ass as he thinks he is because it's going to be such a shame when I toss his ass around that ring and break his confidence and shatter his will to a million tiny pieces. See someone like Crew, he's big and tall and thinks he can just push people around. Tell you the truth Crew, I don't care how tall you are. I don't care how big you are. I don't care what you've done with your career because the Gods honest truth, you haven't messed with anyone such as myself before and I'll be glad to send you back to reality after I dominate you and send you home packing with your tail between your legs.


You're not a professional wrestler like I am Crew. You're a gimmick wrestler who's to lazy to get better. You use your height as a crutch and scare rookies and other gimmick wrestlers into submission. You cast a shadow over them and give your best mean face and hope to God that they piss their pants out of fear. Well sorry to bust your bubble boy but I don't scare easily. Come Retribution, you and the rest of this wrestling world will see just what I'm made out of when I enter that ring a rookie, and leave a force to be reckon with."


Chris pats Marshall on the shoulder as Marshall steps back so that Chris can get back to the podium. With a grin on his face, Chris starts to talk into the microphone.


CC: "Ladies and gentlemen, at Retribution, you will see Marshall Smith in action and you will see that this is not hype. That this is not word of mouth. That this isn't me trying to sell you unicorn tears. Marshall Smith is the real deal and he's more than ready to show everyone what he's made of."

[Deleted]

A small turmoil begins next to the room's entrance, started by fellow reporters and paparazzi. The murmurs are mostly incomprehensible due to the fact that we can hear multiple languages, in the meanwhile, a dazzle of flashes makes it nearly impossible for us to unveil the well-dressed man who makes his entrance into the room. All we can notice is that he wears a fine grey suit and black suit shoes, followed by black shades.

Finally, most of the reporters realize who that is, the turmoil grows as the man finally reaches the same podium that Chris stepped out a couple of seconds ago. The well-dress person takes off his glasses so we can recognize his face features. It is a man that has been out of the rings for a couple of months, nevertheless, here he is. Such thing surely surprises the press members whom do not hesitate to ask one question after another along with all the camera flashes.

The man displays a confident smile as he raises both hands up, as if he is requesting silence. As the turmoil dies down, the man calmly unbuttons his suit's jacket and folds the black shades, placing them into one of the jacket's pockets. He clears his throat before addressing the crowd.

"For those who do not know me, my names is Vincent Strassburg. First and foremost, I must admit that I have missed this atmosphere. I really mean it. The bravado, the good ol' I shall kick your ass promos... Oh, and of course, the constant need to one prove oneself to the people, it is almost as if one owes them something. Well, maybe they do; however, I look right into each and one of your eyes and guarantee that I owe you nothing."

The last sentence starts an agitation, we can notice that some of the reporters are clueless and annoyed. After all, based on the reactions, that was not a good start. Vincent motions with his hands as he speaks, interrupting questions.

"You see, this is not about me trying to make an impact. Oh no, I'm not here to release my anger upon you, there is no reason for such thing, huh? The fellow wrestlers in the back probably don't even know who I am, which is fair game. But I'm quite sure you reporters know what I'm capable of... You folks know who I am, what I've done and mainly how the hell I roll.
...
And if you don't, let me clear your thoughts quite quickly. Former General Manager, former World Champion, former Tag Team Champion, former everything, as you must have guessed by now. My point is, I've been there and done that. You name it, and I've done it. I bear scars of wars that I've been through, I've beaten so many people that I cannot remember most of them anymore. Not because they aren't relevant, nah...
...
They are somewhat relevant because they had the privilege to share a ring with me. I've made careers, I've made title belts and hell, I've even made worldwide federations relevant. And I'm only twenty nine years old. Do you have any idea how much I still have to accomplish?"

One of the reporters finally catches Vincent's attention, a Japanese one. He shoots a question right away as soon as he gets up to his feet.

Japanese reporter: "Vincent-o! Anata wa shibarakunoaida, e no soto ni natte imasu. Anata wa koko ni anata o motarasu mono o oshietekudasai."

Vincent's face expression is easy to read. He did not understand a single word besides his name.

"Well, I have accomplished a lot... Unfortunately, the Japanese language is not one of them. You want me to answer your questions? English or else you get no answers. I will try to learn some words, though, I promise. Ah, out of curiosity, how does one say 'fuck off' in Japanese?"

The man lets out a sneering laugh, alone, though. The reporters mostly ignore the last sentence and we can assume the native ones feel slightly disrespected. Still, another reporter gets up to his feet. A German one. He is interrupted right before asking his question, though.

"Now hold on a second. Allow me to finish my little story, will you? Now straight to the point. All these accomplishments, y'know... All the titles that I've held, federations that I've wrestled for, wrestlers that I've beaten. After all this rather cliché braggadocio, I can confirm that my accomplishments are worth jackshit! Want to know why? I will tell you why. My accomplishments are worth jackshit because they are all stuck in the past. I do not live in the past, I've been through some difficult days, regardless, those days are far behind me.
...
And that brings me to today. What on Earth am I doing here? Why would I show up just to brag about my past and then claim that what I just said means nothing? Well, folks, I will be kind to announce it right here right now..."

Vincent calmly reaches one of his hands into his jacket's pocket. He takes a folded paper out. Then, he lifts it up as he unfolds it. Once he shows its content to the people, the reporters and paparazzi rush to save that moment.

"As of today, I, Vincent Strassburg, am officially signed to New Japan Fighting Championship. I assure that you folks are about to deal with one of the most hardcore wrestlers walking on Earth. I am here to conquer, that is Vendetta's motto; therefore, mine as well. And how does one do that? You simply dominate. It is time to spill some blood in that ring, and boy, I am not known as The Bringer of Blood for nothing."

Vincent stands still for a moment, contract still in hands, for the last pictures being taken. Obviously, reporters still attempt to ask him question; however, they get no answer once the man finally makes his way out of the room.

[Deleted]

In the middle of idle conference, a maid walks in and step towards the podium to speak leaving the reporters puzzled. 

Maid: "Greetings, my name is Madeline and I'm only here as the representative to one of the newest talents to join here in New Japan Fighting Championship thanks to the partnership with a wrestling promotion. Please join me to welcome the former leader of the former group called House of Serena, wrestled from numerous wrestling promotions such as Madness Wrestling Alliance and Caged Evolution Wrestling. She is currently wrestling at Brutal Force Wrestling. She is the Matriarch. SERENA!"

Suddenly "Mazohyst of Decadence" by Dir En Grey is heard and a blonde woman named Serena wearing a Victorian Coat and a black flare pants walks towards the podium as Madeline walks out from the podium for her mistress to stand on the podium. The audience give her a round of applause in respond.

Serena: "Greetings to all of you, my name is Serena. I wrestle from a wrestling promotion, Brutal Force Wrestling and because of their partnership with this very wrestling promotion, I am insist on joining here as part of its roster so I will give my extensive gratitude to the BFW Owner - Zacarias Alder, BFW General Manager - Marcus Sharpe and the CEO of this very promotion, James Peterson. Before we start, I'll give Madeline, as my representative the right to pick for questions."

Some reporters raise their hands as Madeline pick one.

Reporter # 1: "Ms. Serena, I want to ask why do you decide to join here in New Japan Fighting Championship?"

Serena: "That decision inspired from one of the former roster mates in Madness Wrestling Alliance named Angel Lina. I was little bit amazed and most of all, curious on what it is like to wrestle here in Japan and here wrestle in this company is my first step. Just like any other wrestlers in this world, I would to make my name here in this wrestling promotion, winning championships, fighting tough wrestler and most of all, expanding horizons and learning more experience."

Reporter # 1: "Thank you."

Some reporters again raise their hand for Madeline to pick.

Reporter # 2: "Ms. Serena, what is it like to wrestle in Brutal Force Wrestling?"

Serena: "I was expecting some very tough competition and worthy opponents to fight and now they gave me the likes of Loh Elenas and Ravenous in which BFW proves to be one of the promotion I would love to stay. I would expect same from this wrestling promotion."

Reporter # 2: "Awesome."

As the other reporter finished, the others wait for them to be called.

Reporter # 3: "Everyone wants to know, who is this Serena? What are her aspects that other don't have?"

Serena: "Serena.... Hm.... She WAS a ruthless leader of a dominant stable known as the House of Serena which proven to be fearless and cunning. She IS now a lover of pain, any pain from hers to her opponent and most of all, she is the MATRIARCH who loves to "play" her opponent as her children."

The third reporter gives no respond but to sit down as some reporters showing their hands for questions.

Reporter # 4: "Any message for any wrestlers in NJFC?"

Serena: "Did I give that answer already?"

Reporter # 4: "So are we going to expect something like a tea party in your match? Some useless blonde who claim herself to be "matriarch" going to hug and kiss her opponent hoping to-"

Serena: "So.... after all that I'm being patient and calm in this conference and you still demand for something you don't want to be reveal."

Reporter # 4: "Excuse me?"

Serena: "You want to see mommy her darkest side, Mommy's gladly to show you one."

Reporter #4: "What?"

Some reporters stand up feeling nervous while Madeline is ready for worst to come then Serena's two eyes and grin widens. Her laughter resembles the killer's laugh as Madeline grabs her and holds her back. She plead some security to help her drag out from the scene.

Madeline: "Sorry about this, I forgot to tell you that she is mentally unstable! Please be calm, mistress. Anyway again, thank you all for taking part of this."

Serena along with Madeline and some security guards dragging her out finally left the room while the reporters feel relief the worst has been neutralized.

[Bronx Valescence]

Camera began to flash as Bronx Valescence made his way into the press room, numerous things were different about him as he walked in. A. This week he wasn’t dressed as a bum, he actually had on a suit and tie to face the press. B. Bronx seemed to be on crutches, but he looked cheerful as he walked in. Bronx hobbled up to the table and sat down, leaning the metal crutches on the white wall behind him as he looked around.

“Okay, I guess I’m here for questions.”

Immediately hands went up, Bronx knew what it would be. The picture of him surfacing on crutches would send shockwaves around the internet, what was wrong? Would be able to compete? So on and so forth, Bronx looked through the sea of hands and pointed to one particular reporter in the front row.

“Bronx, pro wrestling magazine here. I know for weeks on Twitter you’ve been saying that you have…”

She looked down onto a cheat sheet she had in her hand.

“Said that you tore an ACL in your ankle, you said you’re out for six months with a high ankle sprain, but recent reports is that you’re a little worse off than you’re joking about, care to elaborate.”
With a heavy sigh Bronx ran his hands through his wild silver and black hair as he looked up towards the cameras, leaning on the table with his elbows like a bored school kid.

“I’ve been joking for a couple of weeks about my injury. The fact is, 4CW and NGW was taking a toll on my body. I’ve had a back injury for some time. I’ve had a knee injury for some time as well. Both I’ve been able to work through but the constantly traveling and constant high level matches have begun to really cause me some pain. Some days I feel good, some days it just hurts. It’s something I’m going to have to work through.”

As he paused, cameras flashed and clicked in his direction.

“I can’t say enough how much I appreciate 4CW and NGW for working with me during this time, but I’m taking a few months off from taking weekly and bi-weekly bookings. My body and my sanity isn’t going to hold up if I keep going. I can only take an ass beating so much before I get tired of it.”

When he stopped, a couple of more hands went up, he nodded back towards the back at a reporter with black hair.

“What does this mean for your NJFC appearances?”

Bronx stared forward, still holding his cheek up with one hand as he spoke.

“I came Japan for one reason, it wasn’t for my own ego or it wasn’t for the fame. I came because I wanted to prove I could fight with honor. I wanted to prove I could be the best in that ring, regardless of what reputation I have. I feel like I did some of that last time I was here. There’s no gimmicks in Japan, there’s nothing to hide you if you can’t go in that ring. This time I’ve been given a very good opportunity and I feel like it would be a shame if I squandered that. My goal is simple, I can keep my dates here in Japan, and between I can rest. On days I’m not trying to rehab, I can rest.”

He paused for a moment.

“So instead of having ring rust when I come back, I can keep fresh in the ring all the while rehabbing all of the nagging injuries I have, and my hopes is sometime during the summer I can make a return in some other places, so I guess, that means Bronx Valescence at the current moment is NJFC exclusive.”

Another flurry of camera flashes and microphones clicking, it was obvious Bronx wasn’t feeling up to it today, him being on crutches was obviously him having a bad day. Reporters raised their hands, he pointed to another person in the front, this time a female.
“So just to clear the air, you are still going to be facing Tara Davidson at the next event, correct?”

Bronx nodded.

“I’ve said it before, she has a title I want, and I plan on taking it. It’s the good old fashioned, ‘hey you want a shot at the champ? Beat the champ.’ That, is exactly what I plan on doing. She’s never been in the ring with anyone like me. I look across this roster, and I realize this company has never seen anything like me before. I’m different. I come with hype, but the difference is this hype isn’t like the other wrestlers here where it is self-generated and only seen by a few eyes. The hype I come in with is worldly. Everyone from 4CW to NGW to GIW to wherever. They’ll tell you that I’m one of the best. Between those companies I’ve only been beaten in one on one action a handful of times. You can count that on one hand and I’ve been in this business for two years now. I’ve racked up wins against the best, and I’ve lost against the best too.”

Bronx paused a moment.

“You see, unlike the ‘big name’ wrestlers you see out there. I’m not willing to go out of my comfort zone. I see wrestlers go to different companies and lose and they bitch about conspiracy theories. I’m not scared to lose, and maybe that’s what makes me so special and makes people want to talk about me. I’m not scared to lose to Tara Davidson. I’m not scared to go to another company and wrestle, because I know what I can do, and the laws of average will eventually even out. I will beat Tara Davidson, and after that…I want a shot at her title.”

With two knocks on the table with his knuckle he got the motion that it was time to move on. He leaned back down into the mic.

“Thank you.”

[jace]

After the last person is done speaking James Peterson saunters up to the podium with a wide grin on his face as he leans in towards the microphone.



James Peterson: I know you’ve all been waiting patiently to allow me to be the first to introduce you to the brand NEW GPC World Heavyweight Champion Jason P. Davidson!



The sound of “Onto The Next One” by Jay-Z featuring Swizz Beatz plays throughout the sound system as the Champion glides his way across the stage wearing a grey three piece suit with the GPC World Championship belt proudly displayed over his right shoulder. The Championship belt glistens in the light as Jason shakes hands with Peterson before he returns to his seat. Jason turns his attention towards the media personnel and raises the Championship belt high into the air as flashbulbs go off all over the room. Jason lowers the belt back down to his shoulder as the questions come pouring in.



Reporter: Mr. Davidson, what was it like to win the GPC World Heavyweight Championship belt last month at Stardom?



Jason P. Davidson: It was like everything I told you that it would be. I walked to the ring and I handed John Pariah his ass on a silver platter. I captured what was rightfully mine from the moment I signed my name on the dotted line here in NJFC and now I get to stand here and say I told you so. I told you John Pariah stood no chance against me. I told you that there wasn’t a person on this roster worthy of challenging me. And I told you I would be the new GPC World Heavyweight Champion and as you can plainly see. I am always right.



Reporter: Just why did you choose to form The Kingdom along with your wife Tara Davidson and newcomer to NJFC in Julian Savell?



Jason P. Davidson: That’s because I am a world class talent so of course I would want to surround myself with other world class athletes. Tara is not only my wife but she’s the current GPC Fighting Junior Heavyweight Champion. She fucking steam rolled Flip Fields to win that belt and whether it be Cronk Valentine or whatever the fuck his name is or anyone that dares challenge her for that belt she will do the same to them. Julian Savell is a man whose name speaks for itself in this business and together we will rule NJFC with an iron fist. This is our territory, our Kingdom, and everyone else is just a mere peasant.



Reporter: Do any the members of The Kingdom plan on joining the Tag Team Championship tournament next month?



Jason P. Davidson: Why would we? As of this moment we own two of the three Championship belts here. So let everyone else come busting through the door to beat the living dog shit out of each other for those belts. When the tournament is over and new Champions are crowned? The Kingdom will be right there ready to show them just how futile their efforts in winning that tournament really are.



Reporter: As the GPC World Heavyweight Champion is there anyone you’re looking forward to defending the belt against?



Jason P. Davidson: Anyone besides John Pariah. I mean seriously at this point I’m begging someone to come challenge me for this thing. Everyone is buzzing about the tag belts but not a single motherfucker on this stage or in this business has the balls or the clit to come try to take this away from me. Fear is a powerful thing ladies and gentlemen and what you see before you is a stage full of people that realize the sad reality of things. Each and every single of them knows they are beneath me. You can’t buy that kind of fear and respect, it’s from busting fucking skulls inside of that ring.



Reporter: What are your thoughts about your tag team match at Retribution?



Jason P. Davidson: Against Bullet holes? Please this will be a walk in the park for myself and Julian. I’ve proven not once but twice that John Pariah cannot beat me. And Jordan? Well I mean he’s gone into hiding ever since Stardom. He’s not showed his face here since then. I’ve even called him out on Twitter and nothing. I guess being over in the land of sand and dirty asshole known as Boardwalk Wrestling has been keeping him too preoccupied. It matters not because the Kingdom will reign supreme.



Reporter: But what if Pariah or Ciserano manage to beat you? Wouldn’t that put one of them in line for a shot at the title?



Jason P. Davidson: Yeah, and what if the sky started falling? What if aliens landed on Earth? I don’t deal in fantasy and either one of them pinning my shoulders to the canvas or making me tap out is just that. It’s a work of fucking fiction. I deal in truths and the truth of the matter is that John Pariah is a cockroach that finally needs to be squashed once and for all. Ciserano is someone that decided to stick his nose into the business of The Kingdom and now he’s going to suffer the same fate as Pariah. This isn’t going to be a wrestling match, it’s not going to be a classic people talk about for years to come. It’s going a bloody, brutal warning to each and every single person on this stage of where their place in the pecking order is. We are the standard here in NJFC. We are the headliners in a room full of curtain jerkers. There will be no revolution, no retribution. Anyone that defies our authority loses their motherfucking head.



And with that Jason smirks and walks around from the podium carrying the GPC World Heavyweight Championship belt along with him.

[Rick O'Shea]

James Peterson: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Rick O’Shea!



“Fuel” by Metallica plays as Rick O’Shea walks out from behind the curtain. He is wearing a navy suit with a light blue shirt and a silver paisley tie. He shakes hands with Peterson and approaches the podium as the music fades out.



Rick O’Shea: Konnichiwa!



The mostly Japanese media applaud Rick O’Shea for greeting them in their native language.



Rick O’Shea: Last month, Hiroyoshi Suzuki tried to teach me a few things, but we barely said as much as “hello” before I hit him with the Olympic Slam and pinned his shoulders to the mat. This week, I’m back in New Japan Fighting Championship to face Dylan Knight. And right now, I’m here to take your questions. Ask away, folks.



J. R. Morrison: Hi, I’m J. R. Morrison from the Santa Barbara News-Press. So far, what is the biggest difference between wrestling in Japan and wrestling in the United States? And would you ever consider coming back to the United States to wrestle?



Rick O’Shea: To me, there is not much of a difference. Wrestling is wrestling. I’ve not only wrestled in my native United States, but all over the world. I love wrestling in Japan and I will stay with NJFC as long as I am welcome here. I plan to win championships here. I plan to be the best wrestler in NJFC history. I don’t plan on leaving NJFC any time soon. However, there may be some opportunities for me to wrestle in the United States in the near future with some of the NJFC affiliates. I’ll say more when I know more information.



Steven Franklin: Hello Rick, Steven Franklin from the Toronto Sun here. Not to look too far ahead, but next month the NJFC has an event called Tag-Team-Tropolis in which the first GPC Tag Team Champions will be crowned. Will you be participating in that historic event? And if so, do you have any idea who your partner will be?



Rick O’Shea: I have been part of many tag teams and factions in the past. I am a four time tag team champion as part of two successful tag teams. However, it is not my desire to enter the tag team tournament next month. I came here to make a name for myself and not to make anyone else’s. I’ve had success before in tag teams, but I no longer have the desire to be a part of a team. Maybe in the future I will change my mind on that, but for now, I will not be part of a tag team and I will not be entering the tournament next month.



Steven Franklin: So we will not be seeing you at all in NJFC next month?



Rick O’Shea: At this time, that is correct. If that changes, you will find out.



Takahiro Yanagihara <translated from Japansese>: Takahiro Yanagihara from Yomiuri Shimbun here. You have a match against Dylan Knight at Retribution. If you win, where do you think you rank amongst the top wrestlers in New Japan Fighting Championship?



Rick O’Shea: Excellent question, Takahiro. You must be a big fan. You come to all of these press conferences. First of all, it’s not “if” I win, it’s “when” I win or “after” I win. I will defeat Dylan Knight at Retribution. This might sound cocky, but I’ve seen many wrestlers over the years better than Mr. Knight. I’m not overlooking him. I’m just saying he isn’t very good. Now after I win, I want to go for one of the singles championships here in NJFC; either the NJFC Global Championship or the GPC World Heavyweight Championship. Now obviously, I’m not saying I deserve a shot at one of those titles immediately, but I’m just letting everyone know what my goals are. I’m not just here to have fun. I’m here to win. I want to win championships. I know I can beat Dylan Knight. Sooner or later, I will get some real competition again. I know I could beat Eric Darkthrone again if I get the chance. Maybe I could get a number one contender’s match. At Retribution, Dylan Knight will find out firsthand why I am the next star of the heavyweight division. No further questions. I’ll see you all at Retribution. Arigato!

["The Iceman" Konrad Raab]

Stefan was meant to be coming out in the press conference to chat, but because he clearly was not in the right state of mind to even appear in the press conference, there's a guy who works very closely with Stefan behind the scenes and that's his trainer Chris Richards. He sits down and has already been asked questions as to why Stefan's not here today as he begins to speak to address the press conference.

Chris Richards: "I know you lot don't know who I am so let me introduce myself. I'm Chris Richards, Stefan Raab's trainer and I'm gonna be talking for him. The reason for this is because ever since the loss of the ladder match, Stefan has not been himself at all. He's been very depressed, heartbroken and really down on himself and he's also feeling the fear of his opponents of Luke Wolfe and Eric Darkthorne, two guys that are very violent and dangerous competitors and I've been training a lot with him for the match to get himself back into shape and mentally be ready for the match and feels he's already done enough to make people angry and doesn't want to cause anymore trouble because of him being mentally ill."

Chris wasn't used to doing things like this, but he did get some notes out of his pocket and did have things that Stefan wrote down for Chris to say in the press conference and he speaks.

Chris Richards: "I do however have some notes that Stefan told me yesterday that he's been trying to be in the right sort of state to be in the match and although it may not sound it, but Stefan said that he's looking forward on facing Luke Wolfe because he feels he can be competitive with the guy and feels he can match him a lot with skills, but he also feels there's so much heat between Luke and James Kash that he worries his focus on him and Eric won't be there. He said a lot of good things about Luke on how he's achieved a lot of titles around the years he's been wrestling and hopes they can have a solid fight together, but he just doesn't approve of the violence Luke wants to do in NJFC and wishes that Luke would really put his hatred aside and place all of his quality skills in the ring. He sees Luke as a dangerous guy to take off his feet."

Chris has a drink of his water before he continues to speak as although the press people weren't really taking pictures of Chris, they were listening in with the words Stefan has written down for the upcoming match and Chris continues to speak again.

Chris Richards: "He did also write his thoughts down on Eric Darkthorne as well. He said he's a very big man with a lot of momentum behind him and feels he's the biggest threat in the match because of the win he's got at the Starrdom PPV. He feels he's much bigger than him and he's right in saying that there's not many wrestlers in the business that are bigger than him, but considering that, he said he's faced much bigger wrestlers than before and more than once shown pure strength to lift twice his size. You guys won't believe how strong Stefan is for his size. He's lifted 400 pound weight before which is incredible. Stefan didn't write that, but he really can do anything. He also said he won't hesitate to use some high flying moves as well as we've been working together on a few of them and I honestly feel he's improved his stamina quite a lot since the ladder match which I've noticed since he started in this business almost four years ago."

Chris knew Stefan wrote more from the notes he told Chris yesterday in Stefan's hotel room and he took a few more sips of the bottle of water before he looks directly at the cameras and speaks again.

Chris Richards: "He said he apologises for not being here today, but he said I will fight against Luke Wolfe and Eric Darkthorne because the fans expect me to perform to my highest level and he said he will not fight with violence or the use of weapons in the match because he doesn't want or need to cheat, use weapons or use low tactics to win the match. He wants to fight with his pure wrestling skills and bringing the frostbite towards Luke and Eric, showing the world he has to overcome the violence fear and literally fight like his life depended on the fans cheering him on. He also apologises to the fans he's snapped at during the times he's walked past them because of not being well mentally. He said he will make up for it to do an autograph and picture session the day after the PPV in the arena to meet with him as a way of giving back the disrespectful actions he made towards them that he feels very bad about and he honestly has cried about it."

Chris even knew himself that Stefan had been crying about what he's done which isn't even their fault and Chris sits there in silence before he speaks again.

Chris Richards: "No matter what happens, Stefan will come back with a bang and he will prove to everyone he still has what it takes to wrestle in Japan and he's got to believe in himself he can do it. He needs encouragement from the fans and said he will win the match either by pinfall or submission. He says this as his final words, Luke and Eric, prepare yourselves to be Iceinated by The Iceman. Thank you for your time."

Chris stands up and leaves the room as he grabs his things and goes to Stefan's hotel room to check if he's alright.

[Alpluachra]

James Patterson “Next up, it is my honour to introduce one of our newest members of the NJFC roster, Alpluachra…”

“Ong Ong” begins to play as Alpluachra makes his way into the room, in his mask and suit, accompanied by his Japanese manager Cat Sìth, she is equally masked and suited, only with her burst of orange hair popping out the top of her mask. The pair take a seat in front of a wall of microphones. James Patterson departs as the music comes to a sudden halt. Cat looks out to the sea of reporters, who have all started to raise their hands and call out, she studies them a moment. She raises her hand – the reporters quieten down.

Cat Sìth “Hello, my name is Cat Sìth, and this is my client Alpluachra, we are very happy to be here in Japan, especially myself – being born here myself. I shall be doing the talking at this conference. My client much prefers to do his talking in the ring, which he does very well. What I do very well is talk – so I shall be taking questions…”

Cat gestures with an open forward-waving hand towards the crowd, with a smile. With that, the reporters all shoot their hands skywards and begin to call out for Cat’s attention. Cat points towards a reporter.

“Yes, you there…”

Ed McKinley “Ed McKinley, Chicago Chronicle. First off, why has Alpluachra decided to come to Japan?”

“Well, it is my client’s belief, and I share this belief, that Japan has a great wrestling tradition – many of the world’s greatest wrestlers in history have either come from Japan, or honed their skills in this great nation. Now, many wrestlers come to Japan to test and establish themselves. This is my client’s intention also. He is here to hone his skills – develop them in the puroresu style. He is here to prove his worth as both a fighter and as a man. America is where stars are made, Japan is where strong fighters are made.”

“Sorry, just one more thing… if I may?”

“Please make it quick.”

“Are you at all concerned about your client being an unknown in Japan?”

“I feel like you haven’t been listening. We are quite aware of our unknown status here in Japan. We are here to prove ourselves. However, if you must know – we hope to use our unknown to our advantage. I think Alpluachra has one or two surprises up his sleeves – metaphorically of course.”

A gentle chuckle echoes through the room. Cat looks for her next question.

“Okay, next…you.”

Mura Araki “Thank you. Mura Araki, Japan Today. What do your names mean?”

“Good question. Well, my name is a type of cat fairy who is possessed. I feel it sums up equally my fiery tiger ways and also, my father is Irish, so it is nice to honour that. Alpluachra is translated from Irish to mean joint-eater. We both felt that summed up his wrestling style very well – he uses a lot of submissions. He hurts the opponents joints. It made a lot of sense. It’s all pretty simple stuff. Okay, who next…..yes, you there in the yellow tie.”

Jim Halliday “Yes, Jim Halliday, The Independent. What are your impressions of this week’s opponents?”

“Well, we’ve discussed this. Honestly, we are not very impressed by our opponents. We have not heard a lot from…”

Cat pauses as she checks a piece of paper in front of her on the desk.

 
“…uh, Marshall Smith. Who is he? Is he for real? My client is neither afraid or worried about his pompous posing - and has more than enough experience and training to easily see him off. Our other opponent, Ryan Crews, he at least has the decency to show up and give his talks – but I feel that that is all will do. All talk, no bite. He is a very arrogant, disrespectful man. There is no place for that sort of thing in NJFC. I look forward to Alpluachra disposing of him, teaching him a very very painful lesson on Saturday. He deserves to be treated with just as much respect as he has given his own opponents… okay. Yes, please. You, in the green jumper.”

Mike Garfield “Mike Garfield, from What Culture. My question is: how have you been preparing for your debut?”

“Well, my client has been preparing very hard. He has been training long days – four days a week. His normal routine, but he has been working harder in the gym, and practicing stuff out in the ring. He is very keen to impress both the Japanese fans, and the gathered press with his work here in NJFC. So, yes. He has been working impressively hard… Okay. One last question…”

 
The hand reaches higher – the voices shout louder to try and get the last question in. Cat points at someone and playfully winks at them, before shooting a finger pistol in their direction. A small chuckle.

 
Katsu Hattori “Hello, Katsu Hattori, Nikkan Sports, What are your intention, in the future, in the NJFC?”

“Ha! I’m glad you asked that! I just want to point out however that you are not a plant with the perfect final question…”

A wide grin breaks on the visible bottom half Cat’s face.

“Okay, well – I’ll keep this short and sweet. What have you got, baby? We are here to take anything we can get, be that the highest prizes or the toughest fights. We are here to impress, and we are here to stay. That is all. Thank you very much, we look forward to seeing you all in the ring.”

Cat Sìth winks at the room. The pair stand and abruptly leave in a timely fashion.

[juliansavell]

James Peterson: "Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome from Inferno Wrestling based in Las Vegas... Julian Savell!"

The crowd of reporters clap as Julian walks out to the podium and takes a seat.

Julian: "I don't see why I have to fucking do this but let's make this quick and painless, alright?"

The crowd gasps at Julian's bluntness but he just rolls his eyes until a reporter finally speaks up.

Reporter #1: "Julian, sir, are the rumors true? Do you plan to make NJFC your only home while Inferno Wrestling takes a break at the end of season two?"

Julian: "Well considering I said it in my promo earlier then yes, it's most definitely true. Jesus christ, can I get a better question than this? You are not allowed to ask anything anymore. Someone else say something!"

Reporter #2: "Mr. Savell, what do you expect out of your opponents at Retribution? Do you think they'll get their revenge for the actions of you and Jason last month when you showed up with a mask on and distracted Pariah?"

Julian bursts into laughter for a few seconds before responding.

Julian: "I'm sorry, what did you say? What do I expect out of my opponents? I'll tell you what I expect from them... I expect absolutely nothing. John Pariah and Jordan Ciserano are fucking frauds. Pariah's only claim to a World Heavyweight Championship is being the first REDEFINE Heavyweight Champion. Are you kidding me? It's the company he OWNED! The narrative is the same for his best friend and partner in the ring and in bed, Jordan Ciserano. We all know the kid didn't earn anything that was rewarded to him. He simply stroked Pariah's ego and I'm sure some other things and Pariah rewarded him for that. It's that simple."

Reporter #3: But sir, John Pariah has won over 23 World Heavyweight Championships and his profile says that he has beaten anyone and everyone. I pulled that straight from his NJFC bio. What do you have to say to that?"

Julian scoffs and shakes his head.

Julian: "Really? It says that?"

Reporter #3: "Yes, it does."

Julian: "Well, it sounds like to me that the only person who likes to stroke John Pariah's ego more than Jordan Ciserano is... Well... It's John Pariah. He can make bold claims such as this but are all of those accomplishments of his listed out for everyone to see? Are those company names, other than REDEFINE, listed on his biography?"

Reporter #3: "Um, no, they're not."

Julian: "I know, I've seen it myself."

Reporter #3: Well in that case, what else do you have to say about the information it provides?"

Julian thinks for a few seconds before he laughs and shakes his head.

Julian: "Well, I find it particularly amusing that he calls himself, what is it, 'ICONIC', yes?"

Reporter #3: "Yes, that's what it says."

Julian: "Well let me tell all of you something, an icon isn't self-proclaimed. An icon doesn't lie about their accomplishments and they sure as hell don't say that they've beaten everyone because let's be real, Pariah hasn't beaten anyone that's relevant. Let me ask you a question now since you've apparently done your homework. Has Pariah beaten me?"

Reporter #3: "No sir, he hasn't."

Julian: "Okay. Has he beaten Jason the last two times they met up?"

Reporter #3: No, he hasn't"

Julian: "Exactly. I'm fucking tired of talking about this tool, so can we move on to something else or are we done here?"

Julian starts to get up from his seat when a fourth reporter chimes in with a question.

Reporter #4: "Mr. Savell, what do you have to say about Jordan Ciserano calling you a 'she'?

Julian sits back down in his chair and smiles.

Julian: "I think it's cute. Is that all that nerdy fuck could come up with? I dated Lizzy Taylor for over a year, a woman he can only dream about and I get more ass in a week than he's ever had in his life. So trust me, it doesn't bother me. Besides, it means nothing in the ring. Especially since it's 2016 and women are just as good as men in this business. It's why Ashleigh Jericho is fighting for the Inferno Championship and Jordan Ciserano was thrown into some stupid fucking battle royal with a bunch of no-namers. Please, give me a better question than this because Ciserano needs some new fucking insults rather than calling me a girl."

Reporter #5: "Do you think that your No Holds Barred match in Inferno Wrestling with Gordon Fury will affect your performance here in NJFC?"

A sour look falls over Julian's face as he glares at the reporter.

Julian: "Are you fucking serious right now? Do you think that Gordon Fury, that backstabbing, Judas Iscariot, turncoat piece of shit is going to hurt me in that match? DO YOU!?"

Reporter #5: "That's not what I meant. I was just asking..."

Julian cuts him off.

Julian: "I don't give a FUCK what you were asking. Gordon Fury and Inferno Wrestling have nothing to do with this. I will go to Inferno and do my job one last time and I will end the career of Gordon Fury, a man who lives off of his past accomplishments and glory, much like John Pariah and Jordan Ciserano. It's all the same to me. No Holds Barred, Tag Team matches, Cage matches, I don't give a fuck. I always come prepared. Why? BECAUSE I'M JULIAN SAVELL! I am the man that has come to save wrestling in Japan! It's why I was hired to be here! Don't get it twisted. As for questions, I'm done here!" If anyone tries to ask me another question I'll shove my boot down their fucking throat!"

An obviously annoyed Julian Savell now storms away from the press area, leaving the reporters that are their in utter silence.