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Post by Riley Pierce on May 19, 2021 1:40:22 GMT
Prologue - 16/05/21
The backstage corridors of the IIW Arena, the buzz of the IIW crowd can be heard as the final for the International Title Tournament is coming to an end. There is a huge pop, and you hear the crowd count ‘1….2….3’ The crowd is heard going wild as Tyler Debonair has just secured the win.
Zack Steele turns the corner, headphones on his head as he is beginning his warmup ready for the War Games match. Osh turns the corner a few moments later holding a file, he taps Zack on the shoulder. Zack turns around and takes his headphones off.
Osh: Zack, I promised you a title match and a title match is what you are getting. I just needed to wait for that bell to ring and we need to get this signed off before the Main Event starts.
Osh hands Zack the file. Zack opens it.
Zack: Number One Contender Zack Steele vs International Champion Tyler Debonair 31st May episode of Monday Night Mayhem
Osh removes a pen from the inside pocket of his jacket and hands it to Zack. Zack leans the contract up against the corridor wall and signs the dotted line, he hands the contract back to Osh and they shake hands and nod to each other. Osh walks away as Zack puts his headphones back on and continues with his warmup.
17/05/21 1:00 AM
We open in the IIW Arena Talent Car Park. Zack Steele is seen leaving the arena, his gear bag thrown over his shoulder and a plaster on his forehead covering his battle wound from War Games. He is on the phone.
Zack: Dad, I am fine…The medical team did evaluations on all of us, and they are happy for me to leave by myself, you guys go home. I will be back tomorrow to see you guys for dinner.
He hangs up and notices the camera team waiting for him.
Zack: Guys, I would love to talk but it has been a rough evening, I am not feeling great, but I will be sure to come into the studio for tomorrow for some screen time.
17/05/21 14:00PM
We are now inside IIW Studios, in one of the interview suites. Zack Steele enters wearing an IIW Worlds Collide talent t-shirt and a pair of black basketball shorts and sliders, he is walking with a limp and grimaces as he sits down in the chair slowly.
Zack: Definitely feels like a bus has hit me ten times over but we move. People at home may be wondering that because Team Osh won, then how am I still number one contender for the International Championship, and the answer is simple. Osh is a smart man. Osh got the correct documents sorted before Tyler Debonair even had his hand raised to ensure that his end of the deal was upheld. Smart business decisions are something this place is going to lack now we have Bob running the place, Woo Hoo! Now reflecting on the loss, I did all I could. I am not going to make excuses and blame my conditioning; it is kind of hard to keep going at 100% when you have entered the match first and you have suffered your 100th chair shot. And to the members of Team Bob, my body thanks you for how it is feeling today. The match has probably taken some time off my career, but I have still got a lot of career to use so we must not keep looking at what has happened and look at what is going to happen in the future of Zack Steele.
Zack winces in pain as he is not sat forward in his chair, he relaxes back.
Zack: Tyler Debonair, a guy who I will not lie has impressed me since I walked into this company and someone, I have very much looked forward to stepping in a ring with. So, when you won the final of the title tournament, I was incredibly happy that my wishes had come true. Now do not let this praise not get in the way of the fact, you are holding onto something that should have been mine. Watching that match backstage on Sunday made me realize had I been in that match, the outcome would have been in my favor. You see, I am Zack Steele. The chosen one of IIW. The guy Osh Vaughan hand picked himself to be one of the faces of the new breed in this company, I am here to set my name in stone as one of the best IIW has ever seen, and until Jay Vaughan let the side down on Sunday, I was on a streak. So, I would like to say that the streak lives on, because technically I personally have not lost a match, I have never been counted out, tapped out or been pinned in an IIW ring. So let the records show that Zack Steele is entering this match 2 and 0 in his IIW singles career.
Zack is interrupted by his phone pinging; he removes it from his shorts pocket. He reads the message before replying with a smirk on his face and then rests his phone of the arm of the chair.
Zack: Sorry about that, Regulation business keeps on moving. Back to what I was saying. Tyler, you yourself are on a single winning streak. So that means the pot just got a bit bigger with this match, If I win, I keep my winning streak intact and claim what is rightfully mine and if you win, your winning streak and your title reign stay intact. So, what is it going to be Tyler? Is this where the train derails for you? Is this finally the week you realize you might not just be as good as you think you are? Because I think you know your success is a fluke. I’ve seen guys like you throughout my career, the guy who walks in to each locker room thinking he’s going to be the next big thing and that his next win will finally be the win that gets him the clout he think’s he deserves and then when it comes to the merch table, your line is the shortest at the show because the person you perceive yourself to be is nowhere close to person you really are.
Zack shakes his head in disbelief.
Zack: The fans watching this and some of the guys in the back may think I am being harsh with my words, but the outcome of Sunday has pissed me off, I hold nothing personally against Jay for him throwing in the towel to save Osh’s modelling career but professionally I am pissed off. Yes, this match was set in stone before War Games began, but if there had been a paper jam on the printer or Osh could not find me before I was in that cage, Jay could very much have cost me my opportunity at Tyler’s title.
Zack stares into space in frustration
Zack: I need to go and rest some more so I can get back to training for this match. So, I will wrap things up by saying this.
Zack stares down the camera
Tyler, Prove. Me. Wrong. Do not take this opportunity to prove that you are truly a worthy champion for granted. Prove to me that that title does belong to you because I see no evidence to say otherwise. I will await your response.
The screen fades to black
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Post by Tyler Debonair on May 23, 2021 23:01:52 GMT
***He did it, he actually only went and damn well did it! Tyler Debonair is right now, at this very moment in time, as we speak, the first IIW International Champion since the reformation of the organisation! He is battered, he is bruised... Hell there was one moment in the night when Tyler was almost concussed by that big SOB, Savage Grace falling on him, but he’s still standing! Well, just about...
As the scene opens, Tyler is laying on a bed in a cubicle in A&E at the Manchester Royal Infirmary, ice-pack on his head, with strapping on his right shoulder and across his chest. Steph is sat on a chair in the cubicle facing the bed, reading a book by Dolores Cannon. Tyler tilts his head slightly looking over at her and grimaces*** Tyler: ”Where the hell is this Doctor?”
Steph: ”He’ll be here soon, Ty, you’ve only just had your MRI.”
Tyler: ”And I’m still due an X-Ray and a CT! I need to get out of here, Steph... There’s a lot to do and a lot that we need to prepare for...”
Steph: ”We definitely do, but things aren’t exactly going to go to plan if we start half-assing it, are they?”
Tyler: ”Wow... Meow miss kitty-cat!”
Steph: ”I’m just saying, Tyler... We’ve brought about the arrival of The Coven, Casie has her first official match on First Class next week. You’ve rocked up at World’s Collide and taken out both TJ Alexander and Savage Grace to capture the IIW International Title and come Monday...”
Tyler: ”I face Zack Steele in the first ever defence of said International Title, I’m very well aware and yeah you’re right... We can’t go running in half-assed, no idea what I was thinking, probably those headshots... So Casie has a match? Who’s the sacrifice?”
Steph: ”Things are slowly coming together, they’re taking shape and there’s nothing to worry about, nothing can put a spanner in the works. She’ll be taking on Alaqueesha Payne officially, things are finally coming together, Tyler.”
***She walks up to his bedside and leans down to plant a kiss on his lips. As soon as they’ve finished sharing their intimate moment the curtain is pulled back and a very stern looking older man enters. He approaches a computer that’s set up on the wall and begins typing away before turning to the couple*** Man: ”Good evening, Mr. Debonair, is it? I’m Doctor Beech.”
Tyler: ”I’m not sure how many people I’ve had to tell since arriving in England... It’s Tyler, Mr. Debonair is my dad.”
Dr. Beech: ”Very well, Tyler. I’m still going to send you for the other scans and checks, but looking at your MRI and the initial triage I think it’s safe to say that there’s no major damage. You’ve probably got a slight concussion and it appears you’ve likely bruised your shoulder and ribs.”
Tyler: ”Ok, that takes how long to heal??”
Dr. Beech: ”Anywhere from three to six weeks, I would say.”
***Tyler balks at the Doctor and throws the ice pack down, turning to sidle off the bed but is in too much pain to move. He looks from Doctor Beech, to Steph then back again*** Tyler: ”Sorry Doc, no can do I’m afraid... This needs to heal in about twelve days! I’ve got my first defence of the IIW International Title coming up against Zack Steele!”
Dr. Beech: ”Well I’m sorry Tyler, but unless you know someone who knows magic...”
Steph:”Ooh! Like a Witch?!”
Dr. Beech: ”Well yes, but...”
Tyler: ”Or perhaps someone who’s into Alchemy?”
Dr. Beech: ”Well, yes. But do either of you know such people?!”
***Tyler and Steph just look at each other with a slight smirk on their faces and shake their heads*** Tyler: ”Nah, you’re right Doc... But, I am going to have to defend my title whilst injured.”
Dr. Beech: ”Well personally I would advise against it, but if you’re really going to do it. I’d suggest you take plenty of Paracetamol and Ibuprofen, but don’t take the latter until forty-eight hours. Keep an ice pack on the ribs until around the middle of the week, walk around and try sleeping more upright...”
Tyler: ”Got it, Doc... Look we’ve been here all night and if there’s no need for me to stay I don’t want to take up one of your beds here that someone else could be having.”
Dr. Beech: ”Well as I say, we’ll fix you up with a CT Scan and X-Ray and providing they’re both okay which I’m sure they will be, you’ll be discharged.”
***Steph smiles and she and Tyler both thank Doctor Beech as he opens the curtain and leaves. After another hour, Tyler has had both the CT Scan and X-Ray and everything looks okay, so he’s told he can go home and rest. As soon as they walk out of A&E, he shields his eyes and pulls his hood up, Steph checking her watch as she too covers herself with her hood*** Steph ”Wow it’s already nearly ten in the morning, have we really been stuck in there all night?”
Tyler: ”It looks that way and what in the world is with this rain? I mean, I know the UK has some shambolic weather compared to Los Angeles but this is taking the whole damn cake!”
***Tyler picks up the pace as he pulls his keys out and hits the fob, hearing the double beep on his M3 BMW. Pulling open the doors, both he and Steph climb into the vehicle and Tyler turns the ignition. Just as he’s pulling away from the parking lot his cellphone rings, he hits answer and the stereo in the car comes to life*** Tyler: ”Hey Mercy, how you doing?”
MJ: ”Ty?! Where are you?”
Tyler: ”I’ve been the hospital all night, big sister... Did you not watch my performance at Worlds Collide?!”
MJ: ”Of course I did! But thought you may have answered at least one of my text messages or picked up a call?!”
***Tyler checks his phone and shakes his head as he pulls up at a set of traffic lights*** Tyler: ”Ah shoot, I didn’t even notice I’d had all those. I’m good though, this weather is just really annoying me to be honest!”
MJ: ”Well, you can blame our lovely auntie for that...”
Tyler: ”Wait, what?!”
MJ: ”Nothing, nothing! Anyway that isn’t why I’m calling. You guys may wanna go grab yourselves some snacks and fill up your tank.”
Tyler: ”Really, why?”
MJ: ”You’re off to London, I’ve got you a gig on The Jonathan Ross Show.”
Steph: ”Ah wow, yay!”
Tyler: ”Erm, no yay? That’s not really for me, Mercy. I’m not going on to some talk show.”
MJ: ”What? You are and you will. I made sure they cancelled both Blippi and Aaron Carter to get you on this week before your first International Title defence!”
Tyler: ”Woah! Now, what is it with you girls ordering me around in the last twenty-four hours?! A lot has changed for us since Friday you know?!”
MJ: ”I know, Ty...”
Tyler: ”True goals have revealed themselves to us...”
MJ: ”And we need to make sure we’re on the same page with all this and keeping on top of things. So...”
Tyler: ”Alright... I’m going! I’ll let you know when we reach London, Mercy. See ya.”
***Tyler hangs up and sighs as he catches Steph smirk out of the corner of his eye. Shooting her a playful death stare, he turns the car around at an upcoming roundabout and takes the road towards the M40 and London as the scene begins to fade into darkness...
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...The scene reopens in London later that evening and during a recording of The Jonathan Ross show. Jonathan has just finished his usual start of the show spiel and patter, giving the audience a good laugh and warm up and for those of you who’ve never met Jonathan or don’t know him, he can’t pronounce his R’s (ironic eh?) so give him a break!*** JR: ”Ok ladies and gentlemen it’s time for my first guest. Now some of you, even the gwown adults are still into Westling and you should all be aware of the pwomotion IIW. It was awound a long time ago but had to close its doors but now it has wecently weopened and is available to all on Netflix! Now, two nights ago IIW had its most wecent PPV event, Worlds Collide, in which my guest was in a twiple thweat match for the IIW International Title, which he won! So let’s not dawdle any longer and bwing him out! He’s the IIW International Champion, second generwation Westler, Tyler Debonair! Come on out Tyler!”
***The show band begins to play an orchestral version of Justin Bieber’s “Lonely”, but are cut off by Jonathan doing the hand across the throat sign. Tyler begins to make his way out onto the stage to a rapturous applause which he chooses to ignore. He’s wearing black dress shoes, black jeans and a black button up shirt with his hair tied back in a ponytail and of course not forgetting the IIW International Title draped over his shoulder.
He walks onto the set where Jonathan’s chair is situated, along with the couch for guests and looks around with indifference, nursing a slight nod of approval. He almost misses the hand Jonathan is holding out but catches sight of it as he sits shaking it, crossing one leg over the other*** JR: ”Wow, ok Tyler nice to finally meet you after all these years! How are you?”
Tyler: ”Hey Jonathan, good to be here, yeah I’m good... Oh, yeah I like this place. Loads better than your guy James Corden back in the States...”
JR: ”Well, James is one of my vewy good fwiends, but I’m gonna accept that so thank you. Now Tyler I’ve got to say because I know I said it’s good to finally meet you but we have actually met before haven’t we?”
Tyler: ”We have actually, it was about six or so years ago I think, just before making my debut in CXF...”
JR: ”That’s wight, we actually had your dad on the show, sowwy... Ok my fault, I’ve just been told my by pwoducer you’ve asked not to discuss your dad so...”
Tyler: ”Nah, you’re good Jonathan. Initially yes I said anything to do with Fred Debonair was out of bounds, but I’ve been having a think and I’ve changed my mind. The more I think about it, without family what have you got?”
JR: ”And that’s vewy twue, so yes, we had Fwed Debonair on the show and he’d mentioned you had taken up the sport and were debuting in CXF, but then obviously things didn’t go gweat for you as we all know and you ended up at the Wesnick Neuwopsychological Hospital in L.A which IS something we’re going to leave for now as it’s something you’ve asked to addwess yourself... But of course you are now back on the scene and have made quite the impact since your weturn to the wing!”
Tyler: ”Yeah, thank you... Things have been quite the rollercoaster since I got out of the hospital but I’ve just been following direction, Jonathan. There’s still a long way to go but things are coming to fruition very nicely and as long as we keep following the path we’ve been set.”
JR: ”Ok and who is it, Tyler, that’s setting this path for you, wight now?”
Tyler: ”That’s not something I’ll be sharing with you Jonathan...”
***Jonathan chuckles but looks quite awkward and slightly uncomfortable that this interview isn’t quite going as planned. He isn’t sure if Tyler is purposely being difficult or if he’s just not asking the right questions. He shuffles in his seat and listens in his earpiece*** JR: ”Haha okay fair enough! But what I do want to talk about Tyler is your wecord since walking into IIW, you’re cuwwently five and oh and as mentioned at the most wecent PPV, Worlds Collide, you managed to defeat not one but two other guys, namely TJ Alexander and Savage Gwace to become the newly cwowned IIW International Champion, you are on a very hot stweak at the moment that’s got to be something you’re pwoud of?”
Tyler: ”Proud? Proud, Jonathan? Pride doesn’t come into the equation here when the least I should be bringing to the table is what I put into every battle I walk into! I touched down in England, in Manchester and through the doors of IIW with one thing in mind and that was to make waves, when the time was right... And I didn’t come into this alone, as many have found out recently. At First Class everybody was introduced to The Coven and soon more will be explained but until then just know I’m doing what needs to be done!
You can choose to ignore that Shaun Hart has Tyler Debonair listed as number three in his Power Eight rankings if you wish... Choose to ignore that Tyler Debonair is also ranked third in the entire organisation! But at the end of the day, even if you put your blinkers on and remove those facts from the equation, you’re still left with one very imposing figure standing in your way who has stepped foot in IIW and shut down every single man that has come before him! Just like the prophecies in the Emerald tablets of Thoth foretold...
The latest souls to be saved and cleansed of their toxic ways, by Tyler Debonair... TJ Alexander who I’ll admit, gave me second thoughts on his strength. I’d never seen him actually wrestle before and he didn’t disappoint but as I said, it didn’t stop me from decimating him and making him the latest example... And Savage Grace who ended up sending me to the hospital after my win! And who I firmly believe is someone who, had he actually had a trainer in his corner... Perhaps a former Wrestler, someone who’d been in the ring and knew how to fight... Savage Grace may actually have taken me to task at Worlds Collide and won that match!”
JR: ”Sowwy, Tyler... But, didn’t Savage Gwace have erm, what was his name? Eddie Zam, in his corner?”
Tyler: ”Who?”
JR: ”Eddie Zam? Am I saying that cowwectly? He seems to have a lot to say about you since Sunday night too.”
Tyler: ”No, sorry... What? Ed.. Eddie Za... Za?? Oh!! Oh wait! EDDIE SHAM! Okay yeah I know who you mean! Yeah no, he wasn’t in Savage’s corner Jonathan. No you see that guy is what we like to call a parasite! He feeds on the weak and the vulnerable! He took Savage Grace and he used him to try and get to me... When that failed, he tried to go for my belt and it seems now, Jonathan, I’m what people call living in Mr. Sham’s head rent free!
Eddie was so disappointed with Savage, he’s now challenged him to a match on Mayhem... I mean what kind of weak minded individual pushes someone into the physically demanding and gruelling match, Savage Grace has just come out of, only to then challenge them to a match on the following show? And this guy thinks he’s going to goad me, into some kind of reaction...? He talks about having a clipboard with a list of names right? Well, I’ve had a list of names seared in my mind before I even set foot in the IIW and Eddie Sham’s doesn’t even show up... That’s all I’ll say about that.”
***Tyler runs his hand over the International belt and the look on his face makes it clear he no longer wishes to speak about Eddie Zam, or the International Title match, so Jonathan clears his throat and moves on*** JR: ”Ok, well moving on as I say you did win that match as millions watched you do so to become the first International Champion since IIW weopened so congwats on that again! But going forward, a week fwom when this show airs, you’ll be making your first defence of the belt, against a homegwown talent in Zack Steele! Another second generwation Westler like yourself, who also like you had an epic battle at Worlds Collide.”
Tyler: ”That’s right Jonathan... The guy from Coventry, England! Home grown as you say. Before the big main event that Zack and his team unfortunately lost for Osh Vaughn, which has now seen Bob Mitchell take control of IIW, Vaughn promised him the number one contender shot at my title, now I’ll hold my hands up and say had Osh not pulled Zack from the International Title tournament to begin with, it probably would have been him in the match instead of TJ Alexander or Savage Grace and him I’d possibly have pinned but I guess now we’ll never know! All we’ll know is who will take the win at Mayhem!
There are a few things Zack and I share in common. We’re both around the same age and have grown up living, eating, breathing and sleeping Wrestling! We’ve both been raised as second generation Wrestlers, in Zack’s case following his father Mark Steele and in mine, my father Fred Debonair... Both our official debut matches were against Ryan McCann but you know Jonathan that’s pretty much where it ends! Outside of that there are no similarities! Zack Steele has had three matches in IIW, one of which at Worlds Collide he of course, wishes to forget... But this puts him technically at two and one! Whereas yours truly has wrestled in five matches here and is undefeated in all!”
***Jonathan gives a soft solo applause, but stops when he realises nobody else is. Tyler shifts the International Title onto his other shoulder and stands up facing one of the cameras. He raises an eyebrow and shrugs slightly*** Tyler: ”Zack, you speak of training and working hard for over seven years to get where you are today, admirable admittedly and I suppose, just maybe another thing to chalk up in the comparison column... But what’s different as you’ll find out at Mayhem is that whereas you’ve taken this decision to join a group of people such as Russell Wayne and Jay Vaughn to benefit yourself, or as you put it... What was it? Joining up “to make a shift in how things are run around here” something like that, wasn’t it, hoss? And how’s that working out for ya by the way?! What’s different as I was saying is that I lead people out of the dark ages and into the light...
Another faux pas on your part, Zack, was when you said a while back that you and your buddies aren’t here in IIW to be yes men to a higher power, well I mean first and foremost you absolutely were to begin with being in a group headed up by the man himself, in Osh Vaughn... But now? Now you’re just like the rest of us, ese. Now you’re gonna have to play by Bob’s rules... I’m not saying I’m looking forward to it either, but them’s the breaks! I mean, things just don’t seem to be looking too good for you guys over at The Regulation, does it Zack?
Let me make this clear however... I’m not overlooking you whatsoever, because I know full well what the Steele name means! I’m aware of the kind of fighter your father was and I’m fully aware of what kind of fighter you are. I just hope that the little things that have happened with you and your band of merry men, your mishaps, your cock-ups! Don’t rattle you enough to fog your brain when we meet on Mayhem, Zachary... Because I really, really can’t be dealing with any excuses as to why you ended up succumbing to your meeting with Satori, or why you fell into the Transfiguration!”
***Jonathan attempts to speak but Tyler holds up his hand, indicating for him to not say anything, before he pats the International Title and turns to a different camera along the runner, facing him from his left*** Tyler: ”Zack you have a storied history when it comes to Wrestling matches prior to IIW but that’s the thing, hoss, that’s prior... To IIW! You’ve wrestled all across the globe, so have I, perhaps not five hundred odd matches, but enough! Enough to know what it feels like to be in that upper echelon penthouse when the roof opens up and the sun shines through as the birds are singing... But the only question I want to ask you, Zack, the only thing I want to know is how did it feel... How did it feel giving up the opportunity to have the International Title match be a fatal four-way at the PPV with yourself included, in order to be a pivotal part of Team Osh, only to still falter, flop, fall and fail at the very first hurdle?! It’s okay though, at least you’ve got your chance now right?
I just hope you’re truly ready for this though, Zack, because it’ll be the one shot you get at me for a while! Are you prepared to give all you’ve got for this? Are you ready to put yourself on the line more than you did against team Bob at Worlds Collide?! Yeah I said it, that match you had which ended with you being bloodied, battered and bruised and having absolutely nothing to show for it? That’s going to look like a day out at a theme park, compared to what we’re going to go through on Mayhem, hoss! Now just before Worlds Collide Zack, you told whichever of us came out of the International Title match the winner, we were just placeholders for your title... You said that whoever won, we were just keeping the belt warm for you, have I got that right? Well as you can see I won the IIW International Title! I’m standing here as YOUR International Champion. So if you think I’m just keeping this baby warm for you, Zachary, if you think that I’m just some kind of placeholder then why don’t you, come take it from me, next Monday on Mayhem?... I dare you!”
***The crowd reaction isn’t as negative as you may have expected, what with the change undertaken by Tyler and all, but it’s still not the raucous applause and cheers he’s been getting, which was a bonus to him. He turns and glares at Jonathan as he sits back on the couch, International Title over his shoulder as he crosses one leg over the other. Jonathan looks from Tyler to camera one, back to Tyler then back to the camera again*** JR: ”Wow... Right! And that match between Tyler Debonair and Zack Steele for the International Title, as well as all the other action from the IIW can be found on Netflix! Now joining me next on the couch is another star of Netflix with her upcoming film, Stowaway and that is Anna Kendrick! Stay tuned for her to join us after this break! Don’t go anywhere!”
***The theme tune to the show begins to blare through the speakers, as Jonathan thanks Tyler for being there. One of the show runners comes over to explain what’s happening next to Tyler as the scene slowly but surely, begins to fade - to - black!***
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Post by Riley Pierce on May 29, 2021 0:27:20 GMT
We open to the Steele estate; we transition to Zack’s office space. Zack is seen sitting on his sofa wearing a red and black check short sleeve shirt with a white t-shirt underneath along with a pair of black skinny jeans. When suddenly, another Zack Steele walks in wearing a two-piece navy suit with a light blue shirt underneath and black tie, he sits at his computer desk which has a clear view of the sofa.
Zack at Desk: Welcome to the Steele Deal, I am your host Zack Steele, and I am joined by soon to be IIW International Champion Zack Steele
Zack on Sofa: Well, thank you Zack.
Host Zack: I must say you are looking in great shape, you have recovered well from your impressive performance in the War Games at Worlds Collide and you look set to continue on from that performance as you take on Tyler Debonair on the next episode of Monday Night Mayhem.
Guest Zack: Why thank you Zack, my recovery plan was a success and I have been working hard to be in even better shape than I was in War Games.
Host Zack: Yes, now although you did lose the War Games match, you are aiming to bounce back in style by winning the title you should have won at Worlds Collide had you not nobly given up your shot in order to attempt to save the company from the clutches of evil however the battle was lost in vain.
Guest Zack: Yes, it was indeed a noble act for the greater good of the company but what is done is done and now all I can do is carry on becoming a pioneer of this business and the next face of this company and when I knock Tyler’s head clean off his shoulders with the Knee of Steele or make him beg for mercy when I take him to Sky Blue Way, I will claim what should be rightfully mine and climb further up the mountain.
Host Zack: Well Tyler took to national television to promote your match, what did you make of what he had to say?
Guest Zack: Oh, I did not watch it, I am not really a fan of Jonathan Ross, I am more of a The Last Leg kind of guy. I can however guess what Tyler had to say, he probably gloated a lot about how on paper he is better than me yet also was humble about our similarities in this business. I will say this Tyler, you do not need to be so defensive, it is not personal, it is business. You have something that should be mine, so at Mayhem we are simply going to execute a business transaction, in exchange for my own blood and sweat, I will receive you tears and your title.
Host Zack: You seem confident, and I do not blame you, Nothing Tyler has done has impressed me massively.
Guest Zack: Woah Zack! No need to hurt poor Tyler’s feelings. No need to kick him whilst he is down. He already knows the title he is holding is not really, no need to rub his nose in it.
Host Zack: True.
Guest Zack: You see Tyler goes on and on about how I am inferior to him, yet I think he is yet to face someone that has challenged him both mentally and physically. He had an easy path to becoming champion, I basically left the window open for him to take what is mine but now I have him cornered and I will unleash hell upon his mind, body and soul in order to redeem my property. Osh took the opportunity to be the first of the new era to be International Champion, but I will take Tyler’s opportunity away to become the greatest International Champion in IIW history. Jay may have made my decision seem worthless, but I will make Tyler’s title reign seem worthless because I am Zack Steele, the greatest free agent this industry has seen and the most valuable acquisition this company has made. Osh did not just offer me a contract because of my surname or to fill a roster spot, Osh gave me this opportunity because he knew I would be the man to take his company to the upper echelon, and although Osh may not be at the top of the food chain anymore, what I can do is fulfill his vision.
Host Zack: A lovely sentiment there. It brought a tear to my eye. Now our time is nearly up so is there anything else you would like to say?
Suddenly, we cut from the talk show set up and to Zack sitting by himself still in his office space.
Zack: Enough of the gimmicky shit, I have had my fun. Now all I have left to say is this. Tyler, I know calling you a placeholder has gotten under your skin and you do not agree, and you are hellbent on making me eat my words but really, you’re in denial at the fact that you know that if I was in that tournament final, you wouldn’t have that title, you would have lost the match and probably faded into obscurity, so you’re welcome for the extended relevance. At Mayhem, I end your happiness, I end your glory, I force you into obscurity.
The screen cuts to static.
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Post by Tyler Debonair on May 30, 2021 1:35:12 GMT
***We open the scene inside The Courthouse in the middle of a Saturday afternoon. Tyler is bouncing across the ropes in the ring, whilst a group of students are stood outside watching him. Every thirty seconds one of the students climbs in through the ropes or using the turnbuckles and tries to attack him, but ends up on their back or strewn outside the ring. The next guy up, Cristian Gregory, is what you’d call “a lump”, but he is still no match for Tyler Debonair and as he runs at him, he finds his almost seven foot frame being caught in a drop toe hold and instantly being held to account by a reverse Satori, to which he taps!*** Tyler: ”Alright guys, I truly appreciate the workout and believe me when I say the work you guys put in especially on a weekend does not go unnoticed by myself or any of the girls... Trust me on that. Also at the end of the session today remember we told you, some of you were gonna get some big seats for Mayhem this week to watch my first International Title defence, against Zack Steele!”
***One of the female students puts her hand up, as Tyler is climbing out of the ring and at the same time, Steph is walking down the stairs from the living quarters*** Tyler: ”Yes, Tammy?”
Tammy: ”Erm, what about First Class? Will any of us be able to go watch the girls Wrestle?!”
Casie: ”Well of course you’re more than welcome to come and watch us at First Class as well, guys! Just ask us and we’ll make sure you get front row seats to the domination that’s about to come!”
***Everybody in The Courthouse laughs and just as Tyler is about to step down the ring steps, another student puts their hand up, it’s Cristian Gregory. Tyler looks up as he hangs from the top rope*** Tyler: ”CG! What’s up?!”
CG: ”Well we all saw you on the Jonathan Ross show the other night, but you realise Zack Steele has been talking the most about you right? When are we gonna hear you bite back in person?”
Tyler: ”I don’t bite back, Cristian, my big British Bulldog of a friend... I bite first! Do you really think that what Zack Steele has been doing is biting? Or even barking?! That noise he’s making is akin to that sloppy sound your puppy dog makes when it’s asleep in it’s basket! You know the ssssss bbbrrrrr, ssssss grumble grumble bbbrrrrr sound?! THAT is all I’ve been hearing from Zack freaking Steele!”
***Tyler stands there hanging from the ropes for a moment, before swinging himself back between the top and middle one and climbing into the ring to a chorus of whoops and whistles from the students. He paces the ring slowly turning to call for a microphone but remembering where he is, he waves his hands in the air “ah forget it!” Style and hops onto a turnbuckle, looking around at the guys and girls who’ve now formed a “lumberjack” formation around the ring*** Tyler: ”Zack, you stand there proudly talking about how you’re the chosen one... Constantly banging on and droning in the ear of anyone who’ll listen that you were specifically chosen to do a job and yet, whilst it wasn’t you who lost the match for Team Osh at Worlds Collide, you didn’t exactly go out there and win it either did you?! You didn’t go out there and do the job that you were “hand picked” by Osh to do, did you?! So what in the green grass of Agartha are you so PROUD of?! What are you so HAPPY about?! I can’t quite understand it?!
You’ve said that you watched the match, so you’re fully aware of what I did to put away TJ Alexander and Savage Grace. You said that had you been in the match it would have been you walking out with the IIW International Title, I’m liking the confidence however what I’m not liking is the entitled nature of your mouth, hoss! We’ll see whether or not you’d have walking out of Worlds Collide with the International Title when we meet at Mayhem and I mean that’s got to be a lot easier for you, no? Given that it’ll only be you and me in the ring, right? No Alexander, no Grace! Just Zack Steele and Tyler Debonair!”
***Tyler jumps down from the turnbuckle and walks around the ring shaking his head and looking down at the floor. He has a small smirk on his face as he looks up, slight amusement but also confusion dawns on him*** Tyler: ”Ok, ok Zack... You want to debate semantics with winning streaks, that’s fine. You want to ignore that your entire team lost one of the biggest, no THE biggest match IIW has had in a very long time?! That’s your call, but you’re still coming into this match what? Two and zero? Tyler Debonair walked into IIW, took it by storm and has walked out of Worlds Collide as YOUR International Champion! Coming off the back of a five, count them... FIVE and zero winning streak! You sure do like to project a little Zack, don’t you? I think your near death experience at the Pay-Per-View has really shaken you up, hoss and perhaps even shaken those brain cells of yours...
Is this the week I realise I’m not as good as I think I am? I know my success is a fluke? Classic projection as I said. Zack I’ve been doing this a very long time, just like you and I’ve been extremely successful prior to the IIW, just like you... I was sent here with a message, Zack and that message is slowly getting through to a lot of people, yourself soon to be included... So take your clichéd gaslighting rhetoric and save it for your International Title loss redemption match against someone like Eddie Sham on the next Mayhem because I don’t have time for it!”
***Tyler paces again, a chuckle filling the back of his throat before he stops and leans against the ropes, his gaze meeting three of the students he feels are doing very well right now, a point to be made. He also looks over at Casie who he notices is paying very close attention to him, more so than just watching him cut on Zack Steele... Why? Something she isn’t telling him? He doesn’t know but neither does he care right now, things need to be said, the chuckle in the back of his throat becomes a small laugh*** Tyler: ”You know, Zack, you almost had me... But then you let the mask slip. Have you actually been in a locker room in an organisation anything like IIW before now? Anything a step above arguably Semi-Pro Wrestling? I ask this because I’m pretty sure you said something about seeing “guys like” me, throughout your career?! Guys who, as you put it, walk into each locker room thinking they’re going to be the next big thing?! Again I think this has to be some kind of projection, hoss! You may think you’ve seen “guys like” me but you clearly know nothing of Tyler Debonair! I’ve spent my entire career trying to prove the exact opposite! Trying to make the point I DON’T belong anywhere until I do something that makes the statement that I do... And for IIW, Worlds Collide and winning the International Title was that statement! And, it was just the beginning...
You know what I find hilarious though Zack? For everything that I’ve been through since coming to IIW, for everything that I’ve been through before getting here, to be where I am now! Compared to the nature of your journey and you’re telling me to prove you wrong?! Have you been in Stoner’s smoke shop or something, hoss?! Prove YOU wrong? Oh it doesn’t work that way Zack and I think you know that...
You see, I’M the guy holding the title, I’M the Champ! If YOU think you should be the International Champion, then it looks like YOU will have to prove to me that you’ve earned it! I said that based on logical statistics of the matches presented, you should have been in the final, at the Pay-Per-view, yes... And I’ve never denied you’re a tough competitor, but Zack the mere fact I’m the one standing here as the IIW International Champion is proof enough that I’ve earned that right! YOU are the one challenging ME! Make it count...”
***Tyler pulls back on the ropes and front flips over, onto the stage outside the ring. A few of the students approach him hyping up his promo, as he sees Casie waving him over with her eyes and shoots a look his office. Standing inside is his sister, Mercedes and her future father in-law and head of a Hell’s Kitchen Crime family, Abe Greenberg. Tyler scowls and heads toward the office, closing the door behind him*** Tyler: ”Abe... Mercy, we’ve got things to discuss later, but I’m on my way out to meet up with Darius. What’s up?”
MJ: ”We can discuss it later, Ty, no problem! For now Abe has something he wants to show you...”
Abe: ”Listen mate, you know I wouldn’t come down here for any old reason, don’t ya? Not my style, is it? But look at this Tyler... Wanted to show you now because when I called, Mercedes she said you were off to see Darius...”
***Abe undoes his overcoat and pulls out a Manila envelope that Tyler just looks at tilting his head and raising an eyebrow as he drops it on the desk in front of them all and points to it. Tyler opens the envelope and reads the message inside*** Tyler: ”Whatever you felt you did, you did not. It was done for you. The hate you felt in your heart is aimed in the wrong direction, you need to fix the pain and heal in the right time before you move forward. I’ll be waiting for you... Wait, what is he on about?!”
Abe: ”Absolutely no clue mate, that was addressed to you but left in my offices. Whoever it was knows we know one another so clearly got to be Darius but why is that muppet still playing games??”
Tyler: ”Absolutely no clue, Abe... I’m about to go see him though as I said, so I’ll ask. And you guys, my big sister... Did you give that girl, Caera Bellamira, her daughter back?”
MJ: ”Yes, Tyler... Casie took her back to her house and left her where she’d be found with a note...”
Tyler: ”Saying...?”
MJ: ”Explaining that it wasn’t personal and she was just... You know, in the way of the sacrifice.”
Tyler: ”Awesome! That should be enough, it’s the truth after all! Right I’m off to see Darius and find out what the hell is going on with that thing... I’ll see you guys in a little bit, oh and are we all set for Monday?”
***Mercedes smiles a big broad grin and jumps up and down clapping, stopping and turning away sheepishly as both Tyler and Abe stare at her. Tyler laughs, shaking his head as he walks out of the office and the scene slowly dissipates into darkness...
++++++++++++
...As we reopen, we find ourselves on a dark, deserted, desolate road with just a few houses and shops along with, none of which appear to be open nor have any occupants. Only one or two of the street lights overhead are working as Tyler Debonair saunters down the road dressed in pristine white sneakers, black jeans and a black hoodie with something written on the back we can’t quite make out. His hood is down and the toggles are tied tight as he carries the Manila envelope under his arm, he chuckles to himself and shakes his head as he looks up at the night sky...*** Tyler: ”Zack, Zack, Zack... What can I say ‘mate’? You really know how to write a good dramady my friend! Oh that’s like a comedy and drama rolled into one, by the way! I think the cobbles of, where is it? Weatherfield? Would be pleased to have you on board as a head writer or something when you finally realise that Wrestling isn’t your forte. But you really had me cracking up, hoss and your editing skills are on - point! But let us look at the bigger picture and the more important nature of what we’re talking about, shall we?
Firstly, show me somebody that claims Jonathan Ross isn’t their thing and I’ll show you a liar! You “modern day” hipster TV watchers don’t know which way is up, choosing The Last Leg over Jonathan who is a staple in your chat show diet and has been so for almost twenty five years! But I digress, you say you didn’t watch the show promoting my International Title and our match and yet just so happened to know every little thing I spoke about Zack?! I think somebody’s telling porkies! But that’s okay, I forgive you...
I do find it amusing though, Zack, that you say I’m being defensive when it seems like every word out of your mouth is some kind of justification or excuse for why you’ve done something you did, or incase you do something and you continue to dig yourself a hole, over and over again! You say we’re going to execute a business transaction on Mayhem, Zack? You want to exchange your blood and swear for my tears? And let me get this right... MY Title?! I mean, I think that’s genuinely the most honest and accurate thing you’ve said since I’ve heard you open your mouth!”
***Tyler stops at an intersection and turns slowly where the lights on the road he’s chosen, appear to be a little more active. The houses seem a bit more busy and lit up. He pulls up his hoodie slightly and unclips something behind him, pulling the IIW International Title from his waist and placing it slowly over his shoulder, shifting the weight as he crosses the road*** Tyler: ”As I said before Zack, you sure are doing a lot of talking for someone who believes they should be in my place right now, hoss... The difference between you and I is that I’ve proven my worth until now whereas you’re potentially just about to! But in what world are you living, Zack?! Maybe you were telling the truth after all and didn’t see one minute of my interview with Jonathan Ross after all. I mean if you’re really going to sit there simply going to lie in everybody’s faces about how Tyler Debonair said you were inferior to him?! I never said anything of the sort, in fact I’ve constantly championed how good a talent you are and how much of a challenge this match is going to be I’ve just simply said you’ve proven nothing to me yet that warrants that overconfident attitude, hoss...
You say I had an easy path to becoming Champion, Zack? Yet you’ve faced who? Ryan McCann and JT Maverick...? Whilst I’ve taken on Curtis, Christopher Hawkins and then TJ Alexander and Savage Grace, not to mention taking on Scotty Adam’s between all that... But I guess that’s what entitlement does to people eh? Clouds their judgment on actual scenarios...
The bottom line Zack is this, Osh has given you an opportunity and the worst thing you can do on Mayhem is mess it up and lose to yours truly, that’s all you have to remember... Your comments didn’t get under my skin, Zack, the rebuttals coming from you just flow like the Nile, get it? That’s okay you’ll understand soon enough. Just like you’ll understand that me becoming the IIW International Champion was no fluke, me holding this belt, isn’t a mistake and you having your first loss in IIW is all but certain... I’ll see you Monday, Zack!”
***Tyler stands there for a moment before turning around toward the door he’s stopped outside and bangs on the door a couple of times. After ten or so seconds, the door opens and Darius Enlil is standing there, the two guys fist bump each other and Darius invites Tyler into the house, as soon as they enter the kitchen, Tyler slaps the Manila envelope onto the kitchen island, Darius turns from the kettle he’s just flicked on, to Tyler*** Darius: ”What’s that?”
Tyler: ”You tell me man, I mean I’m beginning to remember things now and we’re good. You don’t have to send me these things anymore!”
Darius: ”What?! I didn’t send you this man...”
Tyler: ”Are you serious?! Then who the hell did? Who else knows about this?!”
Darius: ”Absolutely no idea man... But while we work it out, we’ve got a lot of talking to do about our time at Resnick...”
***Tyler nods in agreement as the two men head towards the back of the house and walk into the living room as the scene slowly begins to FADE -TO - BLACK!!***
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