Resolution (Jan 2008)

[Prez Shay]

The crowd has been gathering in the AWO for what has seemed like six months. Indeed, lives have not only ended inside the arena while waiting for the Pay Per View event to begin, but they have also been conceived and brought into the world too, and quickly adorned with discount AWO merchandise as a gift by AWO management. However, finally, after the impossibly long amount of time spent waiting, the time has come. And as the AWOTron flares to life, the crowd gives a tremendous roar, startling the newborns and sending them into a fit of tears, which is fortunately drowned out by the AWO’s excessively loud speaker system. The AWOTron shows Prez Shay in his office, sitting atop his desk, with the two members of Ego Trip and World Tag Team Champions Chris Bond and Maverick sitting in chairs before him.

Prez Shay: “Now, I don’t think I have to remind you what this means tonight. You both have matches, and they’re both very important. Maverick, if you want to keep your Hardcore title, you’re going to have to show Curtis exactly how we do things in the AWO. You’re going to have to take him to the limit, and really take him out. Don’t injure him too badly though, because obviously we still need Knight on the roster next show…”

Maverick sulks slightly.

Prez Shay: “You had better be ready too, because your match is coming up right now! And Bond… I’m counting on you most of all. Spaz represents the old AWO. The glory days, some might say. We represent the new improved AWO. If you lose tonight, it’ll be disastrous. And you know what? Just to make sure you’re truly trying your hardest, I’m going to make a delayed acceptance of one of Spaz’s terms. If Spaz does manage to beat you tonight, you are to be stripped of the ULF Championship rendering it vacant.

Bond opens his mouth to protest, but Shay cuts him off.

Prez Shay: “This is for your own good Bond. It’s for our own good. I know you can do it. After all, how long has Spaz been out of the game for? He got lucky with a few sucker punches at the Christmas show, but he can’t hope to get away with that tonight if you’re truly focused on what you’re doing. And you WILL be focused, won’t you?”

Bond doesn’t respond.

Prez Shay: “Gentlemen, it’s about time Ego Trip starts making a real name for ourselves. We have multiple championships to our name but I still don’t see the fear from your opponents that we should be generating. It’s time to start building on what we have and truly start a new reign of dominance for Ego Trip. This is going to be our year… now let’s get out there and start it the right way.”

Maverick and Bond stand and walk towards the door. Shay slides off the desk and walks around it, stopping halfway and talking without turning to face the pair.

Prez Shay: “Oh, and guys… don’t let me down…”

The pair look in Shay’s direction for a moment before turning and walking out of the room, as the AWOTron fades to black.

[Prez Shay]

Larry: “Ladies and gentlemen… tonight’s opening match is a First Blood match and will be for the AWO Hardcore Championship! The winner of this match is the person who is able to make his opponent bleed! Introducing first… tonight’s contender for the championship… The Dark Horse… Curtis Knight!!”

‘There and back’ by Daughtry hits and the crowd gives a mixed reaction as Curtis Knight appears from the back, wearing his usual chain mail head covering.

Mike: “Curtis has a big task ahead of himself tonight. I think it’s safe to say he hasn’t faced anyone of Maverick’s caliber yet since he’s joined us.”

Rob: “Well that’s hard to say, I can’t remember Guy Martin being beaten by Maverick in recent times.”

Mike: “I’m willing to bet you can’t remember ANY matches in recent times Rob…”

Knight takes his place in the ring and hangs his chain mail head-dress over one of the turnbuckles.

Larry: “And the opponent… the current Hardcore Champion and one half of the AWO Tag Team Champions… Maverick!”

The Butterfly Effect’s ‘Crave’ hits and the crowd starts enthusiastically booing and jeering as Maverick steps out from backstage, Hardcore Championship belt in hand. He wastes no time soaking in the crowd’s hatred however, and sprints down the ramp, looking like a man on a mission!

Mike: “Oh it’s on here! Maybe President Shay’s words got to Maverick after all!”

Maverick slides into the ring and lifts the Hardcore Championship belt up as he climbs back to his feet, meaning to use it as a weapon… but he doesn’t get a chance to as Knight grabs his arm and head butts him right in the face, as Larry high-tails it out of the ring and the bell is rung! Maverick drops the title belt and stumbles back and Knight delivers a sharp kick to Maverick’s mid-section, doubling him over. Knight quickly pulls Maverick’s head in between his legs looking for a powerbomb, but Maverick violently jerks his head upwards creating a low blow!

Rob: “Ouch! Every man watching tonight felt that one!”

Knight releases Maverick and stumbles backwards, spinning around and gasping for breath. When he spins a full 360 degrees however, Maverick is waiting for him to deliver a boot to the stomach followed by a damaging DDT! Maverick rolls Knight over to check his head for blood, before slapping him a few times across the face in a demeaning fashion and sliding back out of the ring.

Rob: “What’s he doing now Mike?”

Mike: “Well the easiest way to make your opponent bleed is to use weapons Rob. This isn’t for the Hardcore Championship for no reason.”

While Knight recovers from the DDT and makes his way back to his feet, Maverick searches around under the ring apron and finally comes out with a short plank of wood. He grins and slides it into the ring. He slides in himself, however Knight grabs the wood before he has a chance, and brings it down on Maverick’s shoulder! The wood makes a large cracking sound as it splits into two pieces, sending Maverick to the mat, clutching his shoulder! Knight looks at the wood, realizing it’s too short now to be used as a weapon, and throws it away. He drags Maverick to his feet and power whips him hard into the ropes, sending him over the top, tumbling to the mats below, in front of the commentary desk! Knight climbs through the ropes and drops down next to Maverick, but as he bends to pick him up, Maverick locks his legs with his own and trips him, sending him face first into the commentary desk!

Rob: “Hey, all our stuff is up here!”

Maverick springs back to his feet, grabbing his hurt shoulder just for a moment, before realizing it’s fine and bringing his attention back to Knight. He delivers a swift kick to the midsection of Knight as he lies down, but as he does so Knight grabs his leg and refuses to let him go! Maverick pulls back with all his might, and as he does Knight lets go, and Maverick falls backwards into the ring steps! Knight climbs slowly to his feet, and an angered Maverick charges him. Maverick leaps onto Knight, but Knight catches him mid-air, turns, and slams him down onto the commentary table!!

Mike: “Well at least it didn’t break…”

Knight quickly slides back into the ring and climbs the turnbuckle.

Mike: “Now hold on a minute!!”

Knight leaps towards Maverick, but at the last second Maverick rolls off the table and Knight plows through the table alone!!

Rob: “Oh no!! Is he still alive!? And more importantly, is he bleeding!?”

The referee checks Knight over, but does not see any bleeding. Meanwhile, Maverick leans over the barricade and pushes a fan off his chair, bringing the chair with him. He pushes the referee out of the way and slams the chair down hard onto Knight’s side!

Rob: “Oh the humanity!! He’s barely moving already!”

Maverick briefly looks him over, looking for blood, before slamming another chair shot down into him. After seeing no blood again, he throws the chair into the ring in frustration, and pulls Knight to his feet. He guides him over to the ring and helps him roll under the bottom rope and to the inside, before following him in himself. He positions the chair in the centre of the ring before pulling Knight up before it… and preparing for a MindBender (Unprettier) onto the chair!!

Rob: “Oh no!! This will surely end the match!!”

The referee watches on from the side of the ring as Knight suddenly begins fighting back, not letting himself be put into the appropriate position for a MindBender. The two men struggle for a moment, before Knight finally twists himself free, spins around, and boots Maverick in the back! Maverick lurches forward against the ropes, and Knight quickly picks up the chair. Maverick spins around, only to have the chair slammed down hard towards his head! Maverick just manages to get his fists up in time, but the chair smacks against his knuckles making a sickening crack! Maverick drops to the ring mat and rolls to the outside of the ring, clutching his hands, as he falls to his knees!

Rob: “Did you hear the sound that made? Wowee!”

Maverick looks down at his hands, to see that blood has started leaking out from his knuckles!

Rob: “It’s over! Maverick is bleeding!”

Mike: “Wow… Knight actually won?”

Maverick quickly pulls his hands under his armpits to hide them, as he frantically tries to figure out what to do next. The referee looks on curiously, and begins shouting something to Maverick, as suddenly President Shay comes running down the ramp! Shay climbs up on the ring apron and attempts to step inside, shouting at the referee!

Rob: “What is this..?”

The referee goes over to Shay and gets in his way, trying to calm him down and stop him from entering the ring. Knight shakes his head and takes a step towards Shay as well, the chair still in hand… when suddenly Maverick grabs him from behind and spins him around, power-whipping him hard into the turnbuckle… the very turnbuckle with Knight’s own head-gear hanging on it! Knight goes face first into the metal head-dress, and falls backwards onto his back. Maverick quickly rolls back out of the ring as the referee turns to see blood begin leaking from Knight’s forehead!!

Rob: “No… don’t tell me…!”

The referee quickly calls for the bell, and as soon as he does Maverick climbs back in the ring. The referee hands the Hardcore Championship belt back to Maverick, and as he does he looks at Maverick’s hands with a puzzled and suspicious expression. Maverick just shrugs.

Larry: “Ladies and Gentlemen… your winner… and STILL AWO Hardcore Champion… Maverick!”

Rob: “NO!! That’s… that’s an outrage!”

‘Crave’ by the Butterfly Effect hits and Maverick drops and rolls out of the ring, tending to his knuckles as he walks up the ramp beside President Shay. It’s several moments before Knight even knows what happened.

[Prez Shay]

Rob: “Knight should be the Hardcore Champion!”

Mike: “Well, he’s not. End of story. The important thing is, Ego Trip is one from one. They set out to prove something tonight, and they’re well on track! The only thing left is for Bond to beat Spaz… and that should be a piece of cake considering Spaz hasn’t wrestled in years! I look forward to an absolute beating.”

A few minutes later the ring has been cleared again, and Larry once again takes to its centre.

Larry: “Ladies and Gentlemen the following match is scheduled for one fall. Stipulations state that the ULF Championship can be lost, but not attained in this match… meaning it will either be retained or vacated! Introducing the defender… the current ULF and Tag Team Champion… one half of Ego Trip… Chris Bond!!”

The crowd give a mixed reaction for the ULF Champion as ‘Touché’ by Godsmack hits and he appears at the top of the ramp holding the ULF Title Belt (3 former World Championship belts welded together – rather ugly looking). He marches down to the ring with purpose and climbs into the ring, handing the ULF Championship belt to the referee, who raises it high into the air before handing it down to the time keeper.

Larry: “And introducing the challenger… former AWO World Champion and AWO Hall of Famer… Spaz!”

Aerosmith’s ‘Back in the Saddle’ hits and the crowd goes wild. Spaz jogs out onto the stage and stares out at the crowd, smiling, before running down the ramp and into the ring. Larry quickly escapes the ring as Spaz slides inside. The referee has a quick talk to the two of them, before he calls for the bell.

Mike: “It’s on!”

Rob: “Has Spaz still got it in him after all these years?”

Spaz and Bond stare at each other for a moment, before Bond finally makes the first move and lunges forward with a big punch. Spaz ducks away however, and grabs Bond’s arm, pulling him down to the ground and locking him into a Seizure!!! (Crippler Crossface)

Mike: “The answer is yes!”

Bond screams out in agony as Spaz continues to wrench back on Bond’s neck! Spaz is laughing aloud as Bond looks like he’s about to submit! Suddenly though, someone jumps through the crowd with a chair… and it’s President Shay!

Rob: “Oh what the hell is this! I should have known President Semmens wouldn’t let this match play through without getting involved!”

Prez Shay climbs up onto the ring apron, holding the chair in front of him in the ring, swearing and threatening Spaz. Spaz looks behind him and sees Shay, and releases Bond, who rolls onto his back gratefully. Spaz jumps to his feet and before Prez Shay can raise the chair, Spaz runs over and dropkicks the chair back into Shay’s face!!! Shay flies backwards off the ring apron and hits the ring barricade with a thud as the chair falls back to ringside!!!

Rob: “OH MY!! The President has been laid out!”

Mike: “He can’t do that! That’s the president!! He can’t do that!!!”

Spaz looks down at the sore and moaning Shay smiling, while behind him Bond rises to his feet again. The crowd boos, seeing Bond get into an attack position behind Spaz. Spaz turns and Bond charges. Spaz ducks the attack again, however, and Bond charges into nothing but the ring ropes! As he bounces off them, Spaz grabs his arm again, and once again slams him back down to the mat locking him into The Seizure!!!

Rob: “It has to be over!”

Bond screams in agony again, but this time doesn’t last long at all, before furiously slamming his hand down on the ring mat.

Rob: “And it is!!”

Mike: “Will we ever have a ULF Champion who can retain the title? Or not disappear mysteriously?”

Spaz climbs off Bond, smiling and laughing at the ease of his victory. The crowd gives a thunderous applause as Back in the Saddle plays once again, as Spaz plays it up for the crowd in return. Bond rolls out of the ring, humiliated, and makes his way up the ramp.

Rob: “Well, you said you looked forward to a beating Mike, and you got it!”

Mike: “I hate you.”

[Prez Shay]

---- Moments Later ----

The crowd is still cheering for Spaz as he leaves the arena for perhaps the final time, when the AWOTron flares to life. Bond stumbles down a hallway backstage, thudding into his doorway before swinging it open and stepping inside. He is clearly dazed and groggy from the beat down he has just received. He wanders over to the fridge and swings it open, pulling a bottled water out and gulping it down before lifting it from his mouth and letting it pour over his face and head.

Prez Shay: “So that was the best you could do, was it?”

Bond turns, startled. Prez Shay is steps forward from a dark corner in the room. His arms are crossed in front of his chest.

Prez Shay: “Your big moment to prove yourself. Your big moment to shine and to bring glory to Ego Trip. That was all you could muster?”

Bond starts to speak, but the President cuts him off.

Prez Shay: “No! You don’t speak! You don’t get to speak! You disappeared for the entire build-up to Resolution. In a time where we all hoped you were out training… you were God knows where doing God knows what, but training sure as hell wasn’t it! You have brought disgrace to this federation time and time again, and now you have shamed me personally, as well as Ego Trip! How do you think Maverick feels? He did his part! He retained the Hardcore Championship against Curtis Knight. And what did you do? You lost, miserably, to a washed up ex-wrestler and lost Ego Trip the ULF Championship. It’s like you don’t even want to be here Bond! You certainly don’t care about Ego Trip… and so you know what Bond? From this point on, we don’t care about you.”

Suddenly Maverick runs up from behind Bond, grabs his arms, and slams him down with a MindBender (Unprettier)!!! Maverick jumps back to his feet, and kicks Bond in the side for good measure. Bond rolls to his side, coughing and spluttering, as Prez Shay kneels down before him.

Prez Shay: “Bond, the AWO is coming back. And the worst thing that I can think of for us right now is freeloaders who don’t give a damn about winning or losing. You never had the skill. You never had the ability. But now you’ve lost the drive. And for that reason Bond… I’m not simply kicking you out of Ego Trip. The fact of it is Bond… YOU’RE FIRED!!!

Prez Shay rises to his feet and then throws Bond’s contract down into his face, before turning and walking away. Maverick follows, kicking Bond once more on the way out, as the AWOTron fades to black.

Rob: “OH MY GOD!!! BOND HAS BEEN FIRED!!”

Mike: “I can’t believe it either Rob! Prez Shay… finally came to his senses!!”

Rob: “But what does this mean? Bond has been a part of the AWO/NMW for so many years! I can’t believe this has happened!!”

[Prez Shay]

The following main event is sponsored by Pandemic, the board game! Experience the fun of a worldwide pandemic the likes of which you’ll never actually experience in your lifetime! Out now at all good game stores!

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And lastly…

Marvel presents ‘Iron Man’ the movie – releasing later this year!

Rob: “Heh, comic book movies. These will never take off.”

Mike: “Ba…wha?”

Mike lifts his face off his hands, and looks around, confused.

Rob: “You okay there Mike?”

Mike: “What… where are we?”

Rob: You fell asleep during those brief commercials? Man, you need to get some better sleep at night.”

Mike: “I… did I? I guess… I was having the most vivid dream Rob. And you were there… and, we had a black president! But then an orange one! And every movie was a superhero movie! And everyone was wearing masks, except for people who didn’t and called those people snowflakes! And everyone got their medical advice off Facebook…”

Rob: “Facebook?! I think you mean MySpace Rob. Nobody has a Facebook page…”

Mike: “…and they had fake money that was making all the nerds RICH Rob! And all the super-rich nerds were racing into space!”

Rob: “It’s okay Mike. It was just a dream. But it’s time to wake up now, because the time has come for our hugely anticipated main event! We have two World Champions… or no World Champions… or one of them is…? I still don’t really understand what the consequences are of the draw that happened last month, but I do know that we’re about to finally put an end to the confusion as Scruffy Dog and Ice Rock face off to determine who the true AWO World Champion is. I tell you what, I feel like I’ve been waiting for years for this! Maybe even a decade or more!”

Larry: “Ladies and gentlemen… the following match is a submission match and it is for the Attitude Wrestling Organisation Championship!! The match is a No-Disqualification match up and a special stipulation states that no AWO Superstar may interfere with the match, and if they do they will have their contract terminated!”

The crowd gives a cheer because the Main Event is finally here.

Larry: “Introducing first, the challenger, arguably the equal World Champion at the current time… Ice Rock!”

On cue, ‘Welcome to Detroit’ hits the speakers and the crowd cheers loudly. There’s a slight delay with the music continuing to play before Ice Rock appears on the stage holding his replica AWO World Championship belt, getting another pop from the crowd. He looks out at the crowd, smiles slightly, and slowly makes his way down to the ring, soaking in the crowd as his music continues to play.

Rob: “Ice Rock stunned us all last month when he somehow earned a draw in his title match against Scruffy Dog…”

Mike: “…a match that seemed to some like a charity match offered by Scruffy Dog…”

Rob: “..and that only makes this match all the more important. Can he back that up? He’s really up against it here too. Neither of these wrestlers is overly known as a ‘submission’ type wrestler, but Scruffy Dog does have a sharpshooter as a signature move. Ice Rock… well I’m not sure we’ve ever seen him use a submission move!”

Mike: “He’s a highflyer and a brawler – this is completely out of his wheelhouse.”

Ice Rock arrives at the centre of the ring and turns to face the stage, doing some light stretches and running on the spot. His music dies down and there’s silence for a few seconds, just long enough to get the crowd restless, before Larry continues.

Larry: “And introducing next, the current and two time AWO World Heavyweight Champion… Scruffy Dog!”

The crowd gives another large reaction, however this one is more mixed than anything, due to Scruffy Dog’s latest heelish actions, as ‘Falling Away From Me’ hits. Scruffy Dog emerges from the back and stands centre stage, raising his World Championship belt high with one hand before continuing on down the ramp.

Rob: “I’ve gotta say though Mike. As much as Ice Rock has so much to prove in this match – Scruffy Dog is the one who originally challenged Ice Rock. He basically created this whole situation! What happens if he loses tonight!?”

Mike: “That would be equal parts terrible and hilarious.”

Scruffy Dog makes his way to the ring and glances at Ice Rock as he walks past and climbs his usual turnbuckle, raising the title high into the air with a single outstretched arm. The crowd gives another mixed reaction, with slightly more cheers this time around. He then jumps down and hands the belt to the referee. The referee lifts it into the air, and hands it down to the ring attendant. As soon as this is done, Ice Rock hands the referee his belt. The referee looks at it, seemingly somewhat confused as to what he should do with it, before lifting it into the air as well and also handing it to the ring attendant.

Mike: “Hey maybe we don’t need this match after all. Maybe we can just have two champions!”

The bell rings and both men walk towards the centre of the ring. Ice Rock smirks at Scruffy Dog, and makes a show of looking him up and down. Scruffy Dog, meanwhile, punches Ice Rock right in his face.
Rob: “It’s on! They’re not mucking around!”

Ice Rock reels backwards and Scruffy Dog grabs his arm, before whipping him into the ropes hard, and smashing him with a clothesline on the return! Ice Rock hits the mat hard and Scruffy Dog immediately grabs both his legs and rolls him over, wrapping him into a sharpshooter in the process!!

Mike: “We’re witnessing the shortest submission match in history Rob!”

Ice Rock’s face contorts in pain as Scruffy Dog leans back, bending Ice Rock’s back further. Ice Rock reaches out his hand in desperation but finds himself in the direct centre of the ring. He punches the mat in agony and screams out as Scruffy Dog continues to coolly lean back. The referee asks him repeatedly if he wants to submit and several times Ice Rock shakes his head, spit flying from his clenched teeth. Then, finally, he manages somehow to pull himself several feet forward. It’s taken so long that Scruffy Dog seems to have been completely unprepared for it, because he drops Ice Rock as this happens. Ice Rock seizes the opportunity and crawls all the way to the ropes, grabbing them tightly with his fists. He then uses them to slide out of the ring and stands on the outside, reaching around at his aching back.

Rob: “He was in that sharpshooter for an eternity Mike. He’s going to be having real trouble with his back for the rest of this match.”

Scruffy Dog takes a step backwards, seemingly waiting for Ice Rock to compose himself and get back into the ring. Ice Rock looks at him, frowning, before doing just that and rolling back in. He slowly gets to his feet and begins circling the ring, with Scruffy Dog following suit. They eventually meet in the middle and Ice Rock holds out his hands to lock up, with Scruffy Dog copies, but Ice Rock quickly changes tact and this time he’s the one punching his opponent in the face. Scruffy Dog reels and Ice Rock then gives him a kick straight to the midsection. Scruffy doubles over and Ice Rock quickly grabs his arm, pulling him forward and to the ground while locking him in a crossface! Or… kind of… he doesn’t really seem to know what to do with his own hands. Scruffy Dog fights violently against the move as soon as he realises what’s happening, with Ice Rock trying desperately to keep it locked in. Both men thrash wildly before eventually Scruffy Dog backs away from Ice Rock and jumps to his feet. Ice Rock climbs to his feet shaking his head, looking at his own hands. He looks back at Scruffy Dog, who is looking at him with a perplexed look, before shrugging and saying ‘to hell with this’ loud enough to be picked up by the ring mics. He then rolls out of the ring and lifts the ring apron, to see what he can find.

Mike: “Well, so much for the submission aspect of this match. Onto the no disqualification part!”

Seeing what he’s doing, Scruffy Dog rolls out of the other side of the ring and gets to work himself, hopping over the ring barricade, pushing someone away from their seat and then stealing their chair and bringing it back to ringside! Ice Rock, seemingly still unable to find what he’s looking for, delves deeper under the ring. Scruffy Dog walks slowly around the ring until he reaches Ice Rock’s side… to find him completely gone! He walks over to where he’s last seen Ice Rock, and lifts the ring apron, and is immediately blasted in the face by a fire extinguisher! He drops the chair he was holding and jumps backwards, moving his hands to his face, as Ice Rock slides out and swings the extinguisher, catching Scruffy in the side of the head! Scruffy drops to his side, clutching his head as Ice Rock throws the extinguisher down and then sees the chair, picking it up and yelling ‘thanks for this’ to the fallen Scruffy Dog. He then hammers the chair into Scruffy Dog repeatedly, spreading the blows over his body, legs and arms (which are protecting his head). Finally he throws the chair down and pulls Scruffy Dog to his feet, whipping him towards the exposed turnbuckle. Scruffy Dog hits it hard with his shoulder and spins in mid-air, crashing into the front of the announce table.

Mike: “Hey watch it, we JUST had this put back up!”

Ice Rock walks over, still looking like his back is a little tender, and stomps down on Scruffy Dog’s side. He then slowly drags him back up and rolls him onto the announce table, before punching and elbowing the downed Scruffy.

Mike: “Oh come on, what did I just say?!”

He then looks back at the turnbuckle, back at Scruffy, and back at the turnbuckle. The crowd starts buzzing in excitement as Ice Rock drops another elbow into Scruffy’s chest and leaves him to roll into the ring and slowly climb the turnbuckle.

Mike: “Alright I’m moving.”

Rob: “Ice Rock is looking to his Scruffy Dog with a Chronic!”

He reaches the top with the crowd now cheering loudly. Perhaps hearing this, Scruffy Dog instinctively rolls off the announce table and staggers away before Ice Rock can jump off. The crowd boos lightly and Ice Rock frowns… until he realises that in his daze Scruffy Dog has stumbled in an arc and is now walking towards him. He seizes the opportunity and jumps down towards Scruffy Dog, planting both feet into Scruffy Dog’s chest with a falling/flying dropkick!

Rob: “Well, maybe Ice Rock’s back isn’t slowing him down that much after all.

Scruffy Dog is sent backwards into a heap again and Ice Rock springs back to his feet quickly and then starts lining up Scruffy Dog, waiting for him to stand. He stomps his foot on the mats, hunched over and waiting.

Rob: “He’s going for a superkick! One of the few signature moves he has that doesn’t require a turnbuckle!”

Scruffy does eventually, slowly, stand, and as soon as he does, Ice Rock moves forward and kicks out towards Scruffy’s head… but Scruffy falls to the ground before Ice Rock connects, and quickly grabs one of the camera cables running between the announce section and the ring and wraps it around Ice Rock’s other foot, before grabbing the cables and rolling away, tripping Ice Rock backwards in the progress!

Mike: “Well that was… inventive.”

Slamming onto his back on the mats seems to remind Ice Rock of the damage his back sustained earlier and he is sluggish getting to his feet, though still manages to beat Scruffy Dog up, who is now crawling up the steel steps leading up to the ring. Ice Rock sees this, and walks over to Scruffy Dog, being careful to stay out of his line of sight. He then rushes forward and grabs Scruffy’s head, trying to slam it down into the steps… but Scruffy puts his arms out and stops his head for connecting. Ice Rock wrenches it back and tries again, but once again Scruffy stops his head, before elbowing Ice Rock hard in the midsection. Ice Rock doubles over and Scruffy Dog spins around, grabs Ice Rock’s and lifts him into a falling DDT into the steel steps!

Rob: “My God! Ice Rock’s head just made a sickening thud!”

Both men collapse to the ground as blood starts gushing out of Ice Rock’s forehead. Ice Rock rolls around in pain as Scruffy Dog catches his breath and slowly makes his way to his feet. He then looks around and walks over to the announce area, pulling out the World Championship title. He walks over to Ice Rock and holds it above him, yelling something incomprehensible, before throwing it on the ground and pulling Ice Rock to his feet. He then drags Ice Rock’s head in between his legs and lines up his face above the AWO title, in position for a Scruffbuster!

Mike: “Scruffbuster onto the World Title! What a fitting statement this will be!”

Scruffy Dog tries to lift Ice Rock but he seems to lose his grip slightly, before Ice Rock suddenly pulls his arm’s free of Scruffy Dog’s hands and stands up, sending Scruffy Dog flying over the top of him, flipping in mid-air, and landing back first on the steel steps!

Rob: “Holy shit! That should even up the back pain from earlier!”

Ice Rock falls back to one knee, wiping his bloody forehead with his hand looking at his own blood, before turning back to Scruffy Dog who has since rolled down the steps and is rolling around on the ground. Ice Rock picks up the title belt and inspects it for a moment, before sliding it into the ring and walking over to collect the replica one he brought with him. He then lifts it up and slams it down onto Scruffy’s back, before sliding that one into the ring also. He kicks Scruffy in the midsection before helping him to his feet and rolling him back into the ring.

Rob: “Both titles, the real one and the fake one, are now in the ring! How is this going to play out?”

Scruffy Dog is climbing to his feet using one of the turnbuckles as Ice Rock grabs one of the titles and places it in the centre of the ring. He holds the other one and waits, patiently. Eventually Scruffy Dog is fully up to his feet and turns towards Ice Rock – in time for Ice Rock to throw the title belt to Scruffy Dog. Scruffy Dog catches it just as Ice Rock moves in and hits Scruffy with a superkick, kicking the title belt right into his face! Scruffy Dog drops like a sack!

Mike: “It’s over! It’s gotta be over! But… what’s Ice Rock doing now?”

Apparently not content with Scruffy Dog’s unconscious state, Ice Rock drags Scruffy Dog by his arm to the centre of the ring and on top of the title belt, before collecting the replica and placing it on top of Scruffy Dog’s chest. He then turns and makes his way up the nearest turnbuckle.

Mike: “Ice Rock is about to turn Scruffy Dog into a World Title sandwich!”

Ice Rock reaches the top and stares down at Scruffy Dog for a moment, wiping the blood out of his eyes, before turning to look out at the crowd – getting a huge cheer in response.

Rob: “We could be watching history Mike! There’s no one coming to help Scruffy Dog unless they want to get fired!”

Finally, Ice Rock stands, and dives forward, looking to his Chronic… but at the last minute Scruffy Dog curls up and Ice Rock’s back crashes down into Scruffy Dog’s knees! Ice Rock rolls off and rolls around in absolute agony in the mat, as Scruffy Dog bounces up with seemingly renewed energy, grabbing Ice Rock’s legs and wrapping him back around into another sharpshooter!”

Mike: “What a turn of events! Where did this come from!? It looked over!”

Ice Rock raises his arm as if he’s going to tap. He’s screaming out in pain. But his hand closes into a fist and he starts shaking his head and screaming no, before he suddenly spins and sends Scruffy Dog spinning away from him, releasing the hold as he topples over himself. Both men jump to their feet and Ice Rock charges at Scruffy Dog. Scruffy Dog ducks a clothesline, but Ice Rock immediately changes direction and grabs the back of Scruffy’s head, sending him face first into the mat with a bulldog. Ice Rock jumps up and seems to have found a new level. Suddenly the crowd begins to give out a massive boo.

Rob: “What’s that for? Has the crowd turned against Ice Rock?!”

The reason they were booing quickly becomes clear, as the camera pans across to show Chris Bond running down the ramp!

Rob: “What is he doing! There can’t be any interference in this match!”

Mike: “Oh yeah Rob, he’d better watch out, or he’ll get fired!”

Rob: “Oh… right…”

Hearing the boos, Ice Rock turns towards the entranceway and rolls his eyes. He backs away to the centre of the ring as Bond slides through and jumps to his feet. Bond heads straight for Ice Rock but Ice Rock dodges his advance and grabs his arm, whipping him past and sending him into the ropes. He then follows through and clotheslines him over the top rope and back down to the ring mats in front of the commentary desk!
Mike: “Oh well I don’t think that even counts as an interference, Rob.”

Bond jumps back to his feet and grabs a folded steel chair leaning up against the ring barricade. He jumps back onto the ring apron but Ice Rock kicks through the ropes, kicking the chair right into Bond’s chest and sending him back down again.

Mike: “Well this is just embarrassing.”

Bond cradles his stomach, lying on the ring outside while Ice Rock shakes his head. He then turns back to refocus on Scruffy Dog and is quickly greeted with a boot to the stomach and a Scruffbuster!!
Rob: “Oh my! Bond may have not caused any direct damage, but damage has been done!”

Scruffy Dog wastes no time in rolling Ice Rock over onto his back, before locking him into a Sharpshooter!! The pain instantly brings Ice Rock back into the world of the living, and he screams out and reaches for the ropes, which are too far to reach!

Rob: “It’s over! Ice Rock can’t reach the ropes! And with the amount of pain his back went through from that first sharpshooter, there’s no chance he can withstand this!!”

Scruffy Dog wrenches back and Ice Rock lets out another scream, but then somehow manages to pull himself forward half a foot towards the ropes, but they’re still just out of reach! Scruffy Dog snarls and begins bouncing back and forth, causing Ice Rock to wince with each wrench of his back.

Mike: “SURELY he’s going to tap!”

Ice Rock raises his hand reluctantly… but then suddenly pulls himself forward again and reaches the ropes with it! The referee taps Scruffy Dog on the shoulder and tells him to break the hold, but he doesn’t let go, and continues wrenching! Ice Rock, crying out, begins to pull himself out of the ring under the bottom rope, trying anything to get away. Scruffy Dog stumbles back, the hold loosening, when suddenly Bond stands, a smirk on his face and the chair in his hands. Ice Rock looks up at him, his lower half still intertwined with Scruffy Dog and his upper half hanging out of the ring defenselessly, and a look of desperation comes onto his face. It doesn’t last however, as Bond smashes the chair down hard against the top of his head, sending a cracking noise echoing throughout the arena. The crowd boos heavily as Bond takes a step back, allowing Scruffy Dog to pull Ice Rock’s lifeless body back into the centre of the ring.

Rob: “My God! That bastard! He’s surely just cost Ice Rock the World Championship!”

Scruffy Dog looks at the unconscious Ice Rock before him, and then looks towards Bond. He frowns at Bond, but then goes back to work, locking Ice Rock into yet another sharpshooter! The referee drops down to the side of Ice Rock, but it’s clear he’s out cold. He raises Ice Rock’s arm and lets it drop to the mat.

One!!

The referee raises Ice Rock’s hand a second time, and once again lets it drop.

Two!!!

Mike: “Heeeee’s outta heeeere!”

The ref raises his hand and lets it drop a final time.

Thre… NO! The hand suddenly raises as Ice Rock opens his eyes.

Rob: “Impossible!”

Scruffy Dog hears the cheers, realises it’s not over, and begins rocking back and forth again. Ice Rock looks up towards the ropes with eyes full of water and can’t even see where they are. He cringes and cries out in pain.

Mike: “But he’s nowhere near the ropes this time! There’s no way, unless he can reverse Scruffy’s own signature move, that he’s getting out of this! He should have stayed down!”

Ice Rock tries to thrust sideways, and Scruffy almost falls over, not expecting it. He stabilizes though and plants his feet firmly on the ground. Ice Rock screams in pain again and then pulls himself a few inches towards the ropes.

Rob: “He’s not giving up! But surely he can’t actually make it!”

Summoning what must be most of his remaining strength, Ice Rock pulls himself a full foot towards the ropes, edging closer.

Rob: “He can! He is! He’s going to…”

But before Ice Rock can continues, Chris Bond rolls into the ring between Ice Rock and the ropes. He cocks his head at Ice Rock, before putting his foot up and holding it right up against Ice Rock’s forehead, stopping him from moving forward. The referee starts going nuts at Bond, demanding he leaves, but Bond just shrugs at him and looks away. Ice Rock tries swatting at Bond’s legs but he can’t reach get any good purchase on them and he can’t move anywhere. Scruffy Dog keeps leaning back, potentially unaware of what’s going on behind him, before finally, in a frustrated and resigned state, and with no other option, Ice Rock begins tapping.

Rob: “THIS IS A COMPLETE DISGRACE! WHAT IS CHRIS BOND DOING OUT THERE?!”

Mike: “Making sure the right man won, I guess? Or maybe he just wanted to go out with a bang, what with him being fired earlier tonight and all. You know, we probably should start escorting people from the building when they’re fired. Just a thought.”

The crowd gives a heavy boo as the bell is rung and Scruffy Dog drops Ice Rock’s legs, before turning around and being seemingly surprised when he turns to see Chris Bond.

Larry: “Your winner… and still AWO Heavyweight Champion… Scruffy Dog.”

Chris Bond shrugs at Scruffy Dog, before picking up the real AWO Title (at least, what he thinks is the real one) and handing it to Scruffy Dog, clapping, and moving to the side to let him celebrate. Scruffy Dog lifts the title, half-heartedly, looking down at Ice Rock and back at Chris Bond. He then walks over to Ice Rock and holds out his hand. Ice Rock slaps it away and points at Bond. Scruffy Dog holds out his hands in a ‘no idea’ gesture, pointing back at Chris Bond. Ice Rock rises himself, glaring at Bond. Bond’s casual smirk fades with his eyes widening, as he quickly drops down and rolls under the bottom rope. Ice Rock immediately charges and slides out of the ring. Bond turns and runs at full speed up the ramp, as Ice Rock hobbles after him.

Rob: “Bond is about to get one hell of a beat down Mike!”

Mike: “I’m not sure that’s wise of Ice Rock Rob – Chris Bond isn’t a contracted wrestler right now! We could get sued!”

Rob: “Either way, Chris Bond has completely ruined the ending of this match, and for what?! We have so many questions!”

Suddenly Scruffy Dog jerks upwards towards the AWOTron as the countdown that appeared at Independence Day reappears on the screen, counting down from the number twenty!

Rob: “What the hell is this now?! Haven’t we had enough interruptions for one night!? Are we finally about to uncover the mystery of who is behind Scruffy Dog’s destroyed house and other torment?!”

Mike: “I’ll believe it when I see it Rob. This countdown could mean anything.”



13

12

11

11

11

11

The countdown begins to falter, flashing eleven several times in a row, before it moves on to ten. Scruffy Dog hunches over, resting his hands on his legs, and bares his teeth, willing for the countdown to come to an end, so his tormentor can at last be revealed.

8

7

Scruffy Dog is almost shaking, ready to slide out of the ring and run up the ramp as soon as whoever it is dares show their face.

Rob: “Scruffy Dog looks ready to go Mike. I would not want to walk out of that entranceway right now.”

Mike: “After the match Scruffy just had? Anger aside Rob, I’m sure even you could beat him right now.”

4

3

2

1

And then… nothing. The countdown disappears and there is silence across the arena.

Mike: “God, I hate this guy so much right now…”

Rob: “You didn’t before!? But I get your point Mike… we’re going to run out of airtime soon! Our cameramen and workers… and us… need to go home!”

Suddenly though the speakers vomit forth a massive jumble of sound and music, incomprehensible to all.

Rob: “Argh, that’s awful… that’s the sound that came on before the countdown last time Mike. But what IS it?”

Suddenly though, the sound starts to clear, as if different elements of the noise are being taken away. Slowly certain notes and familiar tunes become audible, before it suddenly stops again. There isn’t long to wait though, as suddenly the number ‘1’ reappears on the AWOTron and Limp Bizkit’s ‘Full Nelson’ blasts through the speakers.

Rob: “OH MY GOD IT’S… er…”

Mike: “Probably should have held off on that call.”

Rob: “But that music is so familiar…”

The crowd is on the edge of their seats to see who comes out… but no one does. Scruffy Dog, in the ring, changes posture… now standing with a somewhat confused look on his face. The music comes to an abrupt halt, and as the number ‘2’ is shown on the AWOTron, it is replaced with Slipknot’s ‘Left Behind.’ Scruffy Dog looks around at the crowd, now more confused than ever, as some of the crowd begins to catch on. This song comes to an abrupt halt also and as the number ‘3’ is displayed, Sevendust’s ‘Praise’ begins.

Mike: “I’m missing something here, aren’t I?”

Rob: “Well all these do sound vaguely familiar…”

Number 4 appears as KoRn’s ‘Bottled Up’ begins to play, and number 5 is shown as it switches to HeD P.E.’s ‘Fallen.’ Scruffy Dog is now looking anxiously around the ring, seemingly a lot less sure of himself and certainly a lot wearier, certainly no thanks to the match he’s just had.

Mike: “What does all this even mean… I don’t get it!”

Rob: “Well you wouldn’t. You weren’t around for that last one…”

Mike: “What?”

Finally as ‘Fallen’ comes to an end, there is a brief silence… before KoRn’s ‘Falling Away From Me’ hits, with the a giant number 6 displayed on the screen.

Mike: “Wait… Scruffy… were those all Scruffy Dog’s past entrance themes?”

Rob: “I’m quite sure there were Mike. And not all of those are from the AWO or NMW. In fact, I think those first couple predate the XFL days.”

Mike: “Someone has gone to a lot of effort.”

Rob: “Or they’ve been watching him for an awfully long time…”

Thirty seconds into the song it’s cut off, and the lights begin to dim, as the crowd begins to cheer madly simply at the fact that something is happening other than changing music. The number 7 suddenly appears on the AWOTron, and the crowd doesn’t know whether to look at Scruffy Dog or the entranceway.

Mike: “Oh don’t tell me all this was a massive stunt for Scruffy to announce his new entrance theme!”

The number 7 stays on the screen for a while, the lights dimming further and further, before suddenly an explosion of light bursts out from the entranceway blinding those fans who were unfortunate enough to be looking directly at it. The light continues to shine through the near-darkness as suddenly, and finally, ‘Sonne’ by Rammstein hits.

Rob: “WHAT?! BUT WHY!?”

The crowd gives a massive and mixed reaction as the silhouette of Aryan appears in front of the blinding lights, not spreading the shadow of his outstretched arms across the arena us usual though. This time his shadow can be seen standing upright, still, and staring down at the ring. The lights fade to reveal an almost expressionless Aryan, though his eyes are completely fixed on the man in the ring. Scruffy Dog stares back, a look of bewilderment on his own face.

Mike: “Well, if it’s any consolation Rob, Scruffy Dog himself doesn’t appear to have a clue what’s going on.”

Aryan begins a slow and steady walk down the ramp, never taking his eyes off Scruffy Dog. Scruffy Dog doesn’t move an inch. Aryan slowly climbs the ring steps and steps through the ropes. He walks directly up to Scruffy Dog and gives him a wry smile. Slowly he raises a microphone to his lips… but before he can speak Scruffy Dog snatches the microphone away and takes a step back, shouting into it.

Scruffy Dog: “What the hell is this?! You… you’re… Aryan, right? That German guy? I mean, I saw you around a couple of times before I got kicked out of the AWO. You can’t be the one who’s being doing all this. I… I don’t even KNOW you! You had better have some sort of explanation or reason for being out here boy, because I swear to…”

Aryan easily snatches the microphone away from the distracted and enraged Scruffy Dog. The action seems to startle Scruffy Dog, unless he’s paralyzed with rage, but Aryan raises the microphone to his own mouth unphased. He smiles again as the crowd falls dead silent waiting for his explanation.

Aryan: “Shut. Up. This is not your time to speak.”

Scruffy Dog’s jaw drops, not believing what he’s hearing.

Aryan: “You’ve had all the time in the world to speak, but all you ever seem to do is move your mouth and spit out lies. This is not the time for that. This is not the time for any more of your nonsense.”

Rob: “I think Aryan has lost it!! Doesn’t he realise Scruffy Dog is about to murder him in the middle of the ring?!”

Aryan: “Yes, you saw me around the AWO halls for a while before you disappeared and let me tell you… your removal from the AWO caused nothing but hassle for me, since you were the only reason I was here to begin with.”

Rob: “Wait a minute, where has Aryan’s accent gone?!”

Aryan: “But my name was never Aryan – of course –, and I was not born and raised in Germany. The role I played to gain entrance here might make you think otherwise, but that person was never me. It was all a cover – a necessity to get closer to you.”

Scruffy Dog’s anger appears to fade a little as concern begins to show. This might be caused by the cool, calm and collected tone of Aryan’s voice, or by the fact that despite Aryan’s wry smile, his eyes show no emotion at all.

Aryan: “The man these people all knew as Aryan has nothing at all to do with the real me. Sorry to disappoint you AWO, but I’m not a racist Nazi supremist. I could never lower myself to harbor such a simple and unreasonable hatred. That’s just so… human. So beneath me… so beneath both of us.”

Aryan moves his hand towards Scruffy Dog’s cheek, affectionately, and Scruffy Dog steps backwards, disgusted. Aryan doesn’t show any offence and continues his emotionless smile.

Aryan: “You don’t know how long I’ve waited for this moment. You can’t imagine how many times I’ve played this exact scenario over my head. It was almost lost when you found yourself bound to the NMW, but fortunately I managed to tip your lawyer about that whole ‘verbal contract’ stipulation you made with the AWO upon its closure. The only reason you’re standing here at all right now Scruffy Dog, is because of me.”

Scruffy Dog, again, looks a little taken aback.

Aryan: “And of course to make sure you were involved in this show I had to make sure you needed to stay here, or were at least short of cash… so your house had to go.”

Scruffy Dog’s lip curls in anger.

Aryan: “And it’s all worth it, because now here you are… right here… face to face with me. And yet you have no idea who I am. I had assumed you wouldn’t, of course… but there always was a tiny part of me that did wonder if you would recognise me when I stood before you. Silly, I suppose, considering you’ve never even seen me before.”

Aryan continues looking directly at Scruffy Dog, no emotion showing through.

Aryan: “And if I may say so, Scruffy… had we met before, I would like to think you would be doing a lot better than you are these days. Bending over backwards for these people like you owe them something… like they actually have the power to make you feel something. It is really quite pathetic. But hey, on the other hand, maybe if I’d have known you before, I’d have had someone to help me understand it myself, the complete lack of feeling and emotion that we both share. But of course, I didn’t have anyone to explain it to me, or help me through it… did I now?”

Scruffy Dog is finally handed a microphone from one of the ring staff, and quickly speaks up.

Scruffy Dog: “Look, I don’t know who the fuck you are, or what has happened to you in the past, or how you’ve connected it to me somehow… but you’re clearly very confused and to be honest, you’re sounding like a bit of a psycho. Maybe you saw me on TV growing up and made up some sick fantasy about me but nothing you’re saying is making any sense to me. All I know is you owe me a house, and I owe you one hell of a beating.”

Aryan actually chuckles a brief silent laugh before replying

Aryan: “Oh Jake…”

Scruffy Dog instantly drops the microphone to the ring mat, and steps back another step in horror.

Mike: “Jake? Scruffy Dog’s real name is Jake? I didn’t know that.”

Rob: “No one knew that! I don’t think Cheap Shot knew that!!”

Aryan: “… why must you continue to lie to yourself and all these people while I, someone you can finally truly confide in and relate to, am standing right in front you? You see I know you feel nothing. I know you’re a heartless bastard. Because if you weren’t, you wouldn’t have walked away and left Natalie.”

Scruffy Dog, who was staring down at the mat in disbelief, immediately looks back to Aryan at the mention of Natalie.

Aryan: “All the years of feeling nothing inside, of feeling like a freak and a reject. All the years that I’ve had to ask myself why I was so different than everyone else… and the answer was you Jake. The answer… was always you. When you destroyed your insides so badly that you stopped yourself from feeling it didn’t just end with you. And I was left with no one to help me understand it because you left her… because you left us. No, you wouldn’t have left her if you had a heart at all. And you certainly wouldn’t have left her when she was pregnant. Pregnant with me…”

Rob: “Oh my God! No!! It couldn’t be true!!”

Scruffy Dog drops through the ropes and stumbles onto the ring mats outside the ring. He’s shaking his head, but seems to be in a state of shock. He manages to find the ring barricade and climbs over it, slowly making his way through the crowd and towards an exit. Aryan climbs onto the ring post to get a better view of him.

Aryan: “You can’t run away from my life this time. You see there are really only two things I’ve ever felt in life. The first was love for my mother, whom you abandoned. The second thing, was passed on to me by Mom through the many years I lived with her before she died. And that, is Jake, is hatred… for you… and the way you treated us… and now that Mom has gone, it’s the only thing I have left.”

Scruffy Dog finally reaches an exit but before walking through it, he turns around, staring at the man on the ring post, still looking stunned.

Aryan: “I’m here now on behalf of my mother, Natalie… on behalf of myself… and on behalf of your past, and everyone else you have hurt with your selfishness, only to gloss over when recalling your life story. And when I’m done you will be left with nothing. I swear it on my Mother’s grave. I will make you feel… how I feel…”

There’s a long pause as Aryan stares across at Scruffy Dog, scowling now, and Scruffy Dog stares back.

Aryan: “… Father.”

And with that, Scruffy Dog turns and disappears through the exit. A remix of ‘Vicarious’ by Tool blasts through the speakers as Aryan stays deathly still on the ring post, glaring eerily at the exit where Scruffy Dog left, complete lack of emotion showing on his face.

Rob: “My God what a revelation! Surely it can’t be true!?”

Mike: “I don’t know Rob, Scruffy Dog looked way too spooked by what Aryan said for it to be baseless, surely.”

Rob: “What does this mean for the future? Is Aryan back? And what is Aryan’s name?! How is Scruffy Dog going to combat someone so intent on his downfall… especially if that person is his own son?”

Mike: “I don’t know Rob… I just don’t know… but I'm certain we'll find out more next week!”

Rob: "How certain?"

Mike: "Absolutely positive."

--AWO 2008… give or take 14 years--

[HKay]

Slow clap.