Post by Lockhart on Jun 9, 2019 9:42:42 GMT -5
The VolkSWAGGIN’ had become a decrepit, unwelcoming abode over the last month. What once was the sole point of enjoyment and relaxation for the four men of the #BeachKrew had morphed into something different entirely.
Indifference. That would be the killer of Action Wrestling’s premiere stable. Ironic, in a way. A faction formed with the ultimate intent of slaying the roster until they could sit upon thrones made of fallen bodies and stolen gold.
But once they attained it all… what more did they have left to gain? That question frightened Ryan more than anything.
Only one goal remained. Sweep Evolution II, solidify their superiority. Before long, nothing would remain for them to accomplish… unless.
Unless they turned on you, right?
It would only be logical. I couldn’t even blame them, really. I’ve had my run, and I’m about to main-event the brightest stage. No matter the result, I’ll become part of Action Wrestling legend, achieving what few will ever do.
But the others? They must be restless. I’ve had the spotlight on me since I went All-In. My grip over The World has been iron clad, and I only get better with every passing day.
Wade’s on edge. A man with that talent, intent, and killer instinct can’t be satisifed with second place. The way he sees it? He cultivated me. He’s why I’ve been able to sustain my dominance for an unprecedented period.
And Alexander… Cruiserweight Champion? I know him. He’ll jok about it. Be self-deprecating. I’ve seen the whole shtick… but surely that can’t be it, right? There’s more to him than that. There’s potential. Smarts. Cunning. Attributes few possess in this industry. He’ll be after the belt someday, I know it.
Jared? I can’t read him. Even if I tried to, I wouldn't succeed. A master of deception, of hiding his true nature and intent. His scheming has gotten him far, but when combined with his intellect and raw savagery? It’s nigh unstoppable.
So why wouldn’t they, then? Cut me down before I reach my peak and attain a level even they can no longer dare to challenge? We’re a group of prodigies, but we aren’t equal. Eventually, the gap will appear and I will inch forward, one step at a time until I’m alone at the pinnacle.
The door swung open and William Moor stepped through. He glanced around and spotted Ryan, offering a gracious, warm smile. Ryan had noticed the change in behaviour from his friend and rival quite some time ago, but he never spoke to him about it. He understood. They were all damaged, deranged, or delusional. Ryan himself had only recently brought The Curse under control. It took strength of character and understanding of oneself to achieve. Coddling Wade and offering words of encouragement and support would not be the recipe to solving this issue.
He smiled back. Empty. It never reached his eyes. Wade read the body language from a mile away, “William” even more accurately. He grabbed two beers from The VolkSWAGGIN’s always-stocked mini-fridge. He held one up and raised his eyebrows at Ryan, who shook his head. He shrugged and put a bottle away, keeping one for himself.
Wade then stepped over and laid himself out on a fold-out bed, eyes cast upward while he sipped from the bottle. Without looking at Ryan, he spoke, his tone calm like ocean waves, dream-like in the way it broke Ryan’s trance but then entered him into a new one.
‘You’re only a half-step away, Ryan. How does it feel?’ he said, his lips curled in an amused smile. Ryan looked puzzled.
‘From what?’ he said, which earned a chuckle from The Leviathan.
‘Why, from being The Greatest. Wade’s been a step ahead all along, but if you defend your pride at Evolution II… you do what he couldn‘t. How FUN! You must not be able to contain your EXCITEMENT! Hm, Ryan?’
Ryan stood up, eyes morphed into sharpened blades at the relaxed figure of “Wade”.
‘So, you finally showed up, huh? You waited awhile. Thought you might’ve been too afraid to show your face.’
Godnilla sat up, but no longer did he have the face of Wade Moor. Now, the true form of “William” awaited him, the hideous creature who had whittled away at The Leviathan. Ryan remained still, unflinching. Why would he cower away? He had battled The Curse, he could withstand whatever torment Wade’s invader could bring.
Right?
‘You wound me. I thought you were above that, Ryan. You know, if Wade never feared you…’
His black, beady eyes swiveled over to him.
‘Then why would I?’ he said, before falling into hysterical, inconsistent laughter, unable to contain himself. Ryan’s lip twitched, his mouth formed into a scowl.
‘Fuck you. I don’t care what you’re planning, it won’t work. You’re a tumor. Wade will get rid of you soon.’
He sighed.
‘It should’ve been me and him at Evolution. Not Michael.’
He now pointed an accusing finger toward the creature.
‘But you. You were pullin’ the strings all along, weren’t you? Maybe you had something to do with him getting tossed. Maybe it was a fluke. Who the fuck knows, yeah? But it doesn’t matter. This?’
He waved his arms around him.
‘This is pretty much done. Including you. I’ll defend my damn belt at Evolution, whether it be once or twice. Wade will overcome QDT and you… and we’ll get what we deserve, what we’ve earned through the sacrifices made over the last year.’
The creature giggled, entertained as he listened. Ryan gave him a sweet smile.
‘You don’t know it yet, but…’
He leaned forward, voice lowered.
‘You are already dead.’
He departed after that, leaving “William” and whatever response the heinous figure may have had for him. Uber delivered him back to the apartment he had rented for the week. When he entered the elevator in the complex, he went directly to the lowest level - the private gym.
Here, he’d normally feel comfort. But not now. No, the sight of a heavy bag and ring now made the tip of a spear sit in the pit of his stomach. It prodded and twisted around his innards, nerves evident from the knowledge of being one-half of the biggest match in Action Wrestling history.
He sat down, exhaling, allowing every bit of oxygen to exit his lungs before taking air once more. Now he smiled, sitting cross-legged before the camera, inner peace achieved.
'Let me preface the annihilation you’re all about to witness by saying one thing. I never wanted to destroy the “idea” behind Michael X. On the contrary, I liked it. He’s the autistic little brother who never let his mental deficiency define him - he still tried his best to thrive in a world that showed him no mercy, no remorse, no care for his situation and everything he had been through.
‘Mikey spent years of his career flailing in darkness, lost amidst his anger, doubts, delusions, and his need for control. That’s all he’s ever wanted, to have control. To be the man. It’s an admirable dream. And Mikey had a couple tools necessary to reach it… the mean streak, the ego… and, the uh…’
He smirks.
‘End list. That’s all Mikey X is. A fuckin’ brute with no emotional intelligence or cunning. Go punch a drywall, you Monster Energy drinking pussy. I couldn’t care less about your rough upbringing. I’ve been through that same shit, the only difference being I fell into drugs while you fell into being a complete fuckin’ coward who preyed on the weak.
‘A legitimate criminal. Scum on Earth. That’s Mikey X. This is the man the masses of Action Wrestling are getting behind? If we put out a survey asking the casual fan who they wanted to win in our match… they’d probably pick you.
‘What does that tell you?’
He jerks a thumb toward himself.
‘It’s a demonstration of the supremacy I’ve brought to this federation. Something that won’t ever be replicated. I’m so great that they’re rooting for you, the guy who had the rapist best friend. The guy who rolled with a gang headed by a misogynist piece of shit who lived off of fake moral high ground. The guy who succumbed to the preaching of a “Church” in honor of Stephen Singh of all fuckin’ people.
‘You aren’t a good guy, yet they cheer you. Why? It’s because they’ve all seen this story before. You’re not someone special, you’re another challenger. Every Champion needs one, how else will they build a legacy? The people are bored, X. I’ve face-fucked every man and woman who has stood across that ring from me in search of obtaining the glory of the World Title, and you’re up next.
‘It’s inevitable. It’s fundamental. It’s rudimentary. I enter, I win. That’s the conclusion everyone knows and expects, but that’s why they have hope. That’s why they cheer and maintain a sliver of faith, thinking maybe, just maybe if they give you enough support… it’ll help you do what no other person has shown they can do: beat Ryan Lockhart for the World Title.’
He shrugs.
‘I’ll admit it, Mikey. You’re the worthiest opponent I’ve had to face for the belt, save for when I failed to obtain it against Wade and Spencer. You’re no slouch. In fact, you’re well above-average. Hell, you’re on the verge of being Elite.
‘You even did what I couldn’t by winning the Havoc Rumble. Sure, I was inexperienced when I tried my hand at it, but the fact remains. You’ve done it, I haven’t. Then again… if I had as many attempts as you...
‘Ah, fuck it. There’s a reason I didn’t have to compete in it, while you’ve been in every damn rumble since you debuted back in WCF.’
A grin from The Champion.
‘I’ll give credit where it’s due, Michael. You’re an impressive athlete and competitor. You’ve had an amazing career. Countless titles and accolades stacked upon one another, even if many of them came during the least competitive era of WCF… it’s still all added up into one legendary career, Hall of Fame worthy, even.
‘And that’s where it ends.’
Ryan rises from his cross-legged position to a vertical base, his slender, elegant frame stood proudly before the camera. A wink from Lockhart.
‘I’m about to end this man’s whole career.’
‘You’re not an S Tier player, X. Never have been, never will be. You’re inconsistent, your pedestrian record and uninspiring promo work with cardboard cut-out shoot is sickening, considering you‘re a former World Champion.
‘While you aren’t flat-out terrible or bad, you have none of the drive, personality or dimensions that should give you the edge over the rest of the mid-card. My first few weeks spent as an edgy-boy was more fruitful and lead to more development and pay-off than your years of slogging away through the same motions that have carried you through your career.
‘Again, it’s not bad. It’s just not incredible. It’s not top-tier. It’s not Ryan Lockhart. That’s the thing, Mikey. You’ve done a lot. You’ve put a variety of mediocre to slightly above-par tools together to rack up plenty of wins and titles… but besides Havoc which requires at least some form of luck to win due to the over-the-top rules and huge amount of variables… what have you done?
‘Mikey’s America was a fuckin’ flop when compared to Ryan’s World. Your pride and joy for how many years has paled in comparison to the amount of defenses and days I’ve racked up as World Champion. In three reigns as United States Champion of the WCF, you compiled fewer days overall than I have in one reign as the Champion of a far more competitive division in a far more competitive federation.
‘That’s the trend with you, Mikey. You’ve always been a feel-good story. Which is odd considering your background, but it comes with being a journeyman. Mostly, you’ve remained steady and not betrayed the trust of the paying customer. You’ve done your job and you’ve done it well… just not well enough to be The Man.
‘Omega Title? Same shit. Even your World Title reign was a sad, pitiful thing that only existed from winning another multi-man match that has too many inconsistencies to end up with a predictable outcome outcome. Is this who you are, Mikey? I hope not. Because when we step in that ring together… it’s one-on-one. No bullshit. No being blindsided by something you didn‘t expect... unless Holliday catches in. We’ll get to that later.
‘It’s a test of skill. A battle of wits and will. That’s what I excel at. It’s the conditions I thrive in, where I’m at my best. You? You crumble under that pressure. Your whole career built up to winning the World Title, and yet you severely disappointed everyone when you dropped the belt almost immediately to Odin Balfore.
‘You’re not a proud champion. You’re a transitional one. You do nothing to move the needle, nothing to inspire or bring about change. You’re just another fuckin’ dude in a World being controlled by the most interesting, most dynamic, and most marketable superstar to ever enter the industry.’
He shakes his head.
‘20 years ago, you would’ve been the ideal. But in this modern-age? I bring the views views, and put on the shows that people can’t take their eyes off of. I’ll carry you through this one, elevate your name value and star-power, before I put you on your back and rob you of all your dignity and pride. That’s how this shit goes, man. You’re not gonna be the guy to stop it from going down.
‘I’m the star. You either want to fight me, fuck me, or both. Hey, Casey. If you want a date after I’m done with Mikey, you can cash-in that damn briefcase and we can get it on. You might catch something from Michael’s blood after I pop my fist off your jaw, but I’m sure it won’t hurt more than being what will probably be the first and only person to fail an All-In attempt.’
Ryan laughs.
‘I hope you’re confident, Mikey. I want you to be. These last few weeks you’ve really gotten the best of me, haven’t you? Hardly said a thing. Actions speak louder than words, right?
‘Perhaps. But they also show me that you feel you need to attack first to get the upper-hand.
‘I’ve seen your tendencies. I’ve downloaded the data. I see your aggression and I know how to use it against you. My game-plans are absolute. While my agility and technical ability have garnered me unprecedented success in Action Wrestling, it’s my mind and the rate at which I can adapt to any situation that has secured my spot at the top of this industry for the last six months.
‘You may be good, but I’m better. I know your strengths and how to avoid them, while also minimizing the risk of you picking apart my weaknesses. I have never been more focused or in control than I am in this moment.
‘But besides all that? There’s another reason I will defend my World Title, why I will secure my legacy and etch my name in the record books once again.’
His face becomes stoic, lips tightened.
‘I Am Action Wrestling, X. You may have won our biggest match, but I am a pillar, a foundation of the best federation in The World. I have made history, and I am honored to have done so. I become one of only four men to main-event Evolution, and at this show I will also tie the legendary Roy Speede’s record of FIVE Pay-Per-View Main-Events.
‘I’m the guy who won the first-ever All-In Match against elite talent, and in the process defended Action Wrestling’s honor by preventing Corey Black and Dune from winning the prize.
‘I’m the guy who along with Shadowlove, L Verez and Corey Black, introduced the Execution Cage to A-Dub. I’m the first guy to escape it, and leave my opponent bloodied and broken inside the evil structure.
‘I’m the guy who won the first-ever War Games match for his team, his friends, his boys.
‘I’m the only Action Wrestling Original to win the World Title… and my reign has been the most legendary to grace these halls.
‘I have sacrificed for this place. I have competed against many foes and come out on top, I have broken bread with a former rival and formed the most dominant stable in company history. All of this and more. All in a little over a year.
‘You think I’m gonna give that up to you? Relinquish everything I’ve worked toward for someone with no pride or connection to this place? Fuck no. That would be a disrespect and a disservice to all those who have come before me, to everyone who has worked together to make this place the greatest federation in The World.
‘Whether I’ve liked them or not, we’ve all built this from the ground up. At Evolution II? I defend it and show why I’ve made it MINE.’
He pounds his chest twice.
‘So COME ON, X. Let’s see what you’ve got. Let’s see if you can do what no-one else can. Let’s see you take the Boston Smash on the chin and-’
He‘s interrupted by his phone ringing. He clicks his tongue and exhales loudly, but freezes upon seeing the name on the screen.
With a slide of the finger across the screen, the call is answered, and the mobile is by his ear, eyes widened from the words he hears on the other end.
‘You’re here now? How’d you find me? I thought you didn’t want…’
He pauses, then nods to himself.
‘I’ll be up in a minute.’
He bursts into action, taking the steps leading back up to the elevator two at a time, forgetting about the cameraman momentarily as he launched himself upward. In two minutes, he was back on the ground floor of the complex, and saw Amber waiting for him in the lobby. She looked mildly concerned, but also pleased to see him, relief coming over her strained features.
Ryan embraced her tightly, something he didn‘t usually do.
‘What happened? Where were you? Did you get my…’
She smiled, holding the letter.
‘Yeah, I got it. You’re a cunt, you know that, yeah?’
He laughed, nearly getting choked up during the process.
‘Yeah, yeah. I know. I just…’
She put a finger up, stopping him.
‘Don’t explain. I get it. I could see it from a mile away. Anyone could.’
He says nothing. She gauges him, but also seems to prepare herself, judging by her deep breaths.
‘Look, the reason I disappeared for a while was… well.’
Her eyes flutter downward, and then snap back to him, her resolve now clear.
‘I’m pregnant, Ryan… and it’s ours. I needed to process it all. That’s why I didn’t tell you. But after your letter I thought maybe…’
Ryan felt queasy, his stomach churned. The man who was always a step ahead, who always had a plan or some form of response, could not think of anything calm or logical to say to answer what she told him.
His hands began to shake involuntary, legs feeling like they could collapse under him at any minute. He rushed toward the nearest chair, falling into it to give himself any support he could latch onto. His hands swept through his hair once, twice, three times, a laugh escaped his lips but then got cut off by a shudder that ran through him.
When he looked around, Amber wasn’t around. He didn’t blame her. He just needed time…
Time.
Time to man up and face the challenge. Defend his pride at Evolution II, and move closer to being like the rest of the Lockhart family. Be at least half the man his father was, or his grandfather before him. Honor, integrity, respect. Take the responsibility of being a future father in stride and ready himself to raise a child.
He retreated to his apartment and sat in silence, eyes closed. When they opened again, he sent Amber a text, and then glared at the camera.
‘I’ve always had a lot of pride in staying true to myself. I don’t please people. I could’ve tried to manipulate by playing the nice guy, but I didn’t. I’m a fuckin’ fighter, through and through. That will never change. I do everything to win, and if that means crushing everyone around me and all their dreams into dust… then so be it.
‘That’s the price one has to pay to be at the top. Ruthless. Efficient. Dominant. It can wear on a man’s soul and mind… but not mine. It’s what I’ve felt like I’ve needed to right from the beginning.
‘So fuck all of you.’
He scowls, eyes hardening.
‘Screw Torture for trying to hold me down. Fuck Camila for always trying to stack the deck against me. I hate the media for pushing the Lockhart/Flash narrative, and Jared for his role in it all.
‘Fuck Wade for not winning Havoc, and Pasternak for being too damn lazy and self-hating to reach his potential. Kyle Kemp can suck my dick for never breaking the glass-ceiling, and Lincoln Kuechly for being right there with him… as for Spencer? He’s just as bad for letting them die in the mid-card.
‘Fuck Holliday and her All-In. If you even come near me with that shit I will blast you so fuckin’ hard you’ll be eating from a tube for the rest of your life. I have no respect for you and your fake badass attitude. I called you out for months and you didn’t do shit, but you have the gall to call me out in your promos?
‘I hate Michael X and everything he stands for.
‘Miss me with all that Dandy/Kidsgrove bullshit that should’ve ended months ago. Your pettiness is why neither of you will ever touch me or my World Title. Try it.
‘Fuck ZMAC for being the best gatekeeper in wrestling, and Shadow for being right there with him. Either come for the crown or shut the fuck up.
‘Fuck Jaice for nearly humiliating me in front of everyone, and Corey Black for giving him a match when it should be me getting that opportunity to annihilate a legend.
‘When I look around all I see is the place I’ve built… and realize how much I hate it. Knowing that 95% of you have no respect for me makes me sick to my fuckin’ stomach. I’ve slaved away for more than a year, begging to fight and be fought. Why don’t I get the same adoration? When will I be given the same recognition that lesser athletes are getting?’
He sighs.
‘But... I love it too. I wouldn’t have done anything I did without it all.
‘Casey nipping at my heels.
‘Dandy and Kidsgrove fighting with the hearts of true warriors.
‘ZMAC and Shadow laying the formula on being two of the most interesting and marketable superstars in The World.
‘Jaice for refocusing me.
‘Corey Black for seeing potential before anyone else did.
‘My #BeachKrew boys for giving me the last push into achieving greatness, and #FightSmart for being a common goal to motivate us and help me improve.
‘...and Mikey?’
He smiles.
‘Everything I hate about you… will be what I channel when I defend all of this history that surrounds us at Evolution II.
‘Who said that deep down, I wasn’t a great guy?’
A wink.
‘This is MY federation. You’re not about to take that from me.
‘No-one can.’
The image cuts to black, but we can still hear Ryan’s voice.
‘And for my future kid, whoever you are… this one will make you proud to be called a Lockhart.’
Indifference. That would be the killer of Action Wrestling’s premiere stable. Ironic, in a way. A faction formed with the ultimate intent of slaying the roster until they could sit upon thrones made of fallen bodies and stolen gold.
But once they attained it all… what more did they have left to gain? That question frightened Ryan more than anything.
Only one goal remained. Sweep Evolution II, solidify their superiority. Before long, nothing would remain for them to accomplish… unless.
Unless they turned on you, right?
It would only be logical. I couldn’t even blame them, really. I’ve had my run, and I’m about to main-event the brightest stage. No matter the result, I’ll become part of Action Wrestling legend, achieving what few will ever do.
But the others? They must be restless. I’ve had the spotlight on me since I went All-In. My grip over The World has been iron clad, and I only get better with every passing day.
Wade’s on edge. A man with that talent, intent, and killer instinct can’t be satisifed with second place. The way he sees it? He cultivated me. He’s why I’ve been able to sustain my dominance for an unprecedented period.
And Alexander… Cruiserweight Champion? I know him. He’ll jok about it. Be self-deprecating. I’ve seen the whole shtick… but surely that can’t be it, right? There’s more to him than that. There’s potential. Smarts. Cunning. Attributes few possess in this industry. He’ll be after the belt someday, I know it.
Jared? I can’t read him. Even if I tried to, I wouldn't succeed. A master of deception, of hiding his true nature and intent. His scheming has gotten him far, but when combined with his intellect and raw savagery? It’s nigh unstoppable.
So why wouldn’t they, then? Cut me down before I reach my peak and attain a level even they can no longer dare to challenge? We’re a group of prodigies, but we aren’t equal. Eventually, the gap will appear and I will inch forward, one step at a time until I’m alone at the pinnacle.
The door swung open and William Moor stepped through. He glanced around and spotted Ryan, offering a gracious, warm smile. Ryan had noticed the change in behaviour from his friend and rival quite some time ago, but he never spoke to him about it. He understood. They were all damaged, deranged, or delusional. Ryan himself had only recently brought The Curse under control. It took strength of character and understanding of oneself to achieve. Coddling Wade and offering words of encouragement and support would not be the recipe to solving this issue.
He smiled back. Empty. It never reached his eyes. Wade read the body language from a mile away, “William” even more accurately. He grabbed two beers from The VolkSWAGGIN’s always-stocked mini-fridge. He held one up and raised his eyebrows at Ryan, who shook his head. He shrugged and put a bottle away, keeping one for himself.
Wade then stepped over and laid himself out on a fold-out bed, eyes cast upward while he sipped from the bottle. Without looking at Ryan, he spoke, his tone calm like ocean waves, dream-like in the way it broke Ryan’s trance but then entered him into a new one.
‘You’re only a half-step away, Ryan. How does it feel?’ he said, his lips curled in an amused smile. Ryan looked puzzled.
‘From what?’ he said, which earned a chuckle from The Leviathan.
‘Why, from being The Greatest. Wade’s been a step ahead all along, but if you defend your pride at Evolution II… you do what he couldn‘t. How FUN! You must not be able to contain your EXCITEMENT! Hm, Ryan?’
Ryan stood up, eyes morphed into sharpened blades at the relaxed figure of “Wade”.
‘So, you finally showed up, huh? You waited awhile. Thought you might’ve been too afraid to show your face.’
Godnilla sat up, but no longer did he have the face of Wade Moor. Now, the true form of “William” awaited him, the hideous creature who had whittled away at The Leviathan. Ryan remained still, unflinching. Why would he cower away? He had battled The Curse, he could withstand whatever torment Wade’s invader could bring.
Right?
‘You wound me. I thought you were above that, Ryan. You know, if Wade never feared you…’
His black, beady eyes swiveled over to him.
‘Then why would I?’ he said, before falling into hysterical, inconsistent laughter, unable to contain himself. Ryan’s lip twitched, his mouth formed into a scowl.
‘Fuck you. I don’t care what you’re planning, it won’t work. You’re a tumor. Wade will get rid of you soon.’
He sighed.
‘It should’ve been me and him at Evolution. Not Michael.’
He now pointed an accusing finger toward the creature.
‘But you. You were pullin’ the strings all along, weren’t you? Maybe you had something to do with him getting tossed. Maybe it was a fluke. Who the fuck knows, yeah? But it doesn’t matter. This?’
He waved his arms around him.
‘This is pretty much done. Including you. I’ll defend my damn belt at Evolution, whether it be once or twice. Wade will overcome QDT and you… and we’ll get what we deserve, what we’ve earned through the sacrifices made over the last year.’
The creature giggled, entertained as he listened. Ryan gave him a sweet smile.
‘You don’t know it yet, but…’
He leaned forward, voice lowered.
‘You are already dead.’
He departed after that, leaving “William” and whatever response the heinous figure may have had for him. Uber delivered him back to the apartment he had rented for the week. When he entered the elevator in the complex, he went directly to the lowest level - the private gym.
Here, he’d normally feel comfort. But not now. No, the sight of a heavy bag and ring now made the tip of a spear sit in the pit of his stomach. It prodded and twisted around his innards, nerves evident from the knowledge of being one-half of the biggest match in Action Wrestling history.
He sat down, exhaling, allowing every bit of oxygen to exit his lungs before taking air once more. Now he smiled, sitting cross-legged before the camera, inner peace achieved.
'Let me preface the annihilation you’re all about to witness by saying one thing. I never wanted to destroy the “idea” behind Michael X. On the contrary, I liked it. He’s the autistic little brother who never let his mental deficiency define him - he still tried his best to thrive in a world that showed him no mercy, no remorse, no care for his situation and everything he had been through.
‘Mikey spent years of his career flailing in darkness, lost amidst his anger, doubts, delusions, and his need for control. That’s all he’s ever wanted, to have control. To be the man. It’s an admirable dream. And Mikey had a couple tools necessary to reach it… the mean streak, the ego… and, the uh…’
He smirks.
‘End list. That’s all Mikey X is. A fuckin’ brute with no emotional intelligence or cunning. Go punch a drywall, you Monster Energy drinking pussy. I couldn’t care less about your rough upbringing. I’ve been through that same shit, the only difference being I fell into drugs while you fell into being a complete fuckin’ coward who preyed on the weak.
‘A legitimate criminal. Scum on Earth. That’s Mikey X. This is the man the masses of Action Wrestling are getting behind? If we put out a survey asking the casual fan who they wanted to win in our match… they’d probably pick you.
‘What does that tell you?’
He jerks a thumb toward himself.
‘It’s a demonstration of the supremacy I’ve brought to this federation. Something that won’t ever be replicated. I’m so great that they’re rooting for you, the guy who had the rapist best friend. The guy who rolled with a gang headed by a misogynist piece of shit who lived off of fake moral high ground. The guy who succumbed to the preaching of a “Church” in honor of Stephen Singh of all fuckin’ people.
‘You aren’t a good guy, yet they cheer you. Why? It’s because they’ve all seen this story before. You’re not someone special, you’re another challenger. Every Champion needs one, how else will they build a legacy? The people are bored, X. I’ve face-fucked every man and woman who has stood across that ring from me in search of obtaining the glory of the World Title, and you’re up next.
‘It’s inevitable. It’s fundamental. It’s rudimentary. I enter, I win. That’s the conclusion everyone knows and expects, but that’s why they have hope. That’s why they cheer and maintain a sliver of faith, thinking maybe, just maybe if they give you enough support… it’ll help you do what no other person has shown they can do: beat Ryan Lockhart for the World Title.’
He shrugs.
‘I’ll admit it, Mikey. You’re the worthiest opponent I’ve had to face for the belt, save for when I failed to obtain it against Wade and Spencer. You’re no slouch. In fact, you’re well above-average. Hell, you’re on the verge of being Elite.
‘You even did what I couldn’t by winning the Havoc Rumble. Sure, I was inexperienced when I tried my hand at it, but the fact remains. You’ve done it, I haven’t. Then again… if I had as many attempts as you...
‘Ah, fuck it. There’s a reason I didn’t have to compete in it, while you’ve been in every damn rumble since you debuted back in WCF.’
A grin from The Champion.
‘I’ll give credit where it’s due, Michael. You’re an impressive athlete and competitor. You’ve had an amazing career. Countless titles and accolades stacked upon one another, even if many of them came during the least competitive era of WCF… it’s still all added up into one legendary career, Hall of Fame worthy, even.
‘And that’s where it ends.’
Ryan rises from his cross-legged position to a vertical base, his slender, elegant frame stood proudly before the camera. A wink from Lockhart.
‘I’m about to end this man’s whole career.’
‘You’re not an S Tier player, X. Never have been, never will be. You’re inconsistent, your pedestrian record and uninspiring promo work with cardboard cut-out shoot is sickening, considering you‘re a former World Champion.
‘While you aren’t flat-out terrible or bad, you have none of the drive, personality or dimensions that should give you the edge over the rest of the mid-card. My first few weeks spent as an edgy-boy was more fruitful and lead to more development and pay-off than your years of slogging away through the same motions that have carried you through your career.
‘Again, it’s not bad. It’s just not incredible. It’s not top-tier. It’s not Ryan Lockhart. That’s the thing, Mikey. You’ve done a lot. You’ve put a variety of mediocre to slightly above-par tools together to rack up plenty of wins and titles… but besides Havoc which requires at least some form of luck to win due to the over-the-top rules and huge amount of variables… what have you done?
‘Mikey’s America was a fuckin’ flop when compared to Ryan’s World. Your pride and joy for how many years has paled in comparison to the amount of defenses and days I’ve racked up as World Champion. In three reigns as United States Champion of the WCF, you compiled fewer days overall than I have in one reign as the Champion of a far more competitive division in a far more competitive federation.
‘That’s the trend with you, Mikey. You’ve always been a feel-good story. Which is odd considering your background, but it comes with being a journeyman. Mostly, you’ve remained steady and not betrayed the trust of the paying customer. You’ve done your job and you’ve done it well… just not well enough to be The Man.
‘Omega Title? Same shit. Even your World Title reign was a sad, pitiful thing that only existed from winning another multi-man match that has too many inconsistencies to end up with a predictable outcome outcome. Is this who you are, Mikey? I hope not. Because when we step in that ring together… it’s one-on-one. No bullshit. No being blindsided by something you didn‘t expect... unless Holliday catches in. We’ll get to that later.
‘It’s a test of skill. A battle of wits and will. That’s what I excel at. It’s the conditions I thrive in, where I’m at my best. You? You crumble under that pressure. Your whole career built up to winning the World Title, and yet you severely disappointed everyone when you dropped the belt almost immediately to Odin Balfore.
‘You’re not a proud champion. You’re a transitional one. You do nothing to move the needle, nothing to inspire or bring about change. You’re just another fuckin’ dude in a World being controlled by the most interesting, most dynamic, and most marketable superstar to ever enter the industry.’
He shakes his head.
‘20 years ago, you would’ve been the ideal. But in this modern-age? I bring the views views, and put on the shows that people can’t take their eyes off of. I’ll carry you through this one, elevate your name value and star-power, before I put you on your back and rob you of all your dignity and pride. That’s how this shit goes, man. You’re not gonna be the guy to stop it from going down.
‘I’m the star. You either want to fight me, fuck me, or both. Hey, Casey. If you want a date after I’m done with Mikey, you can cash-in that damn briefcase and we can get it on. You might catch something from Michael’s blood after I pop my fist off your jaw, but I’m sure it won’t hurt more than being what will probably be the first and only person to fail an All-In attempt.’
Ryan laughs.
‘I hope you’re confident, Mikey. I want you to be. These last few weeks you’ve really gotten the best of me, haven’t you? Hardly said a thing. Actions speak louder than words, right?
‘Perhaps. But they also show me that you feel you need to attack first to get the upper-hand.
‘I’ve seen your tendencies. I’ve downloaded the data. I see your aggression and I know how to use it against you. My game-plans are absolute. While my agility and technical ability have garnered me unprecedented success in Action Wrestling, it’s my mind and the rate at which I can adapt to any situation that has secured my spot at the top of this industry for the last six months.
‘You may be good, but I’m better. I know your strengths and how to avoid them, while also minimizing the risk of you picking apart my weaknesses. I have never been more focused or in control than I am in this moment.
‘But besides all that? There’s another reason I will defend my World Title, why I will secure my legacy and etch my name in the record books once again.’
His face becomes stoic, lips tightened.
‘I Am Action Wrestling, X. You may have won our biggest match, but I am a pillar, a foundation of the best federation in The World. I have made history, and I am honored to have done so. I become one of only four men to main-event Evolution, and at this show I will also tie the legendary Roy Speede’s record of FIVE Pay-Per-View Main-Events.
‘I’m the guy who won the first-ever All-In Match against elite talent, and in the process defended Action Wrestling’s honor by preventing Corey Black and Dune from winning the prize.
‘I’m the guy who along with Shadowlove, L Verez and Corey Black, introduced the Execution Cage to A-Dub. I’m the first guy to escape it, and leave my opponent bloodied and broken inside the evil structure.
‘I’m the guy who won the first-ever War Games match for his team, his friends, his boys.
‘I’m the only Action Wrestling Original to win the World Title… and my reign has been the most legendary to grace these halls.
‘I have sacrificed for this place. I have competed against many foes and come out on top, I have broken bread with a former rival and formed the most dominant stable in company history. All of this and more. All in a little over a year.
‘You think I’m gonna give that up to you? Relinquish everything I’ve worked toward for someone with no pride or connection to this place? Fuck no. That would be a disrespect and a disservice to all those who have come before me, to everyone who has worked together to make this place the greatest federation in The World.
‘Whether I’ve liked them or not, we’ve all built this from the ground up. At Evolution II? I defend it and show why I’ve made it MINE.’
He pounds his chest twice.
‘So COME ON, X. Let’s see what you’ve got. Let’s see if you can do what no-one else can. Let’s see you take the Boston Smash on the chin and-’
He‘s interrupted by his phone ringing. He clicks his tongue and exhales loudly, but freezes upon seeing the name on the screen.
With a slide of the finger across the screen, the call is answered, and the mobile is by his ear, eyes widened from the words he hears on the other end.
‘You’re here now? How’d you find me? I thought you didn’t want…’
He pauses, then nods to himself.
‘I’ll be up in a minute.’
He bursts into action, taking the steps leading back up to the elevator two at a time, forgetting about the cameraman momentarily as he launched himself upward. In two minutes, he was back on the ground floor of the complex, and saw Amber waiting for him in the lobby. She looked mildly concerned, but also pleased to see him, relief coming over her strained features.
Ryan embraced her tightly, something he didn‘t usually do.
‘What happened? Where were you? Did you get my…’
She smiled, holding the letter.
‘Yeah, I got it. You’re a cunt, you know that, yeah?’
He laughed, nearly getting choked up during the process.
‘Yeah, yeah. I know. I just…’
She put a finger up, stopping him.
‘Don’t explain. I get it. I could see it from a mile away. Anyone could.’
He says nothing. She gauges him, but also seems to prepare herself, judging by her deep breaths.
‘Look, the reason I disappeared for a while was… well.’
Her eyes flutter downward, and then snap back to him, her resolve now clear.
‘I’m pregnant, Ryan… and it’s ours. I needed to process it all. That’s why I didn’t tell you. But after your letter I thought maybe…’
Ryan felt queasy, his stomach churned. The man who was always a step ahead, who always had a plan or some form of response, could not think of anything calm or logical to say to answer what she told him.
His hands began to shake involuntary, legs feeling like they could collapse under him at any minute. He rushed toward the nearest chair, falling into it to give himself any support he could latch onto. His hands swept through his hair once, twice, three times, a laugh escaped his lips but then got cut off by a shudder that ran through him.
When he looked around, Amber wasn’t around. He didn’t blame her. He just needed time…
Time.
Time to man up and face the challenge. Defend his pride at Evolution II, and move closer to being like the rest of the Lockhart family. Be at least half the man his father was, or his grandfather before him. Honor, integrity, respect. Take the responsibility of being a future father in stride and ready himself to raise a child.
He retreated to his apartment and sat in silence, eyes closed. When they opened again, he sent Amber a text, and then glared at the camera.
‘I’ve always had a lot of pride in staying true to myself. I don’t please people. I could’ve tried to manipulate by playing the nice guy, but I didn’t. I’m a fuckin’ fighter, through and through. That will never change. I do everything to win, and if that means crushing everyone around me and all their dreams into dust… then so be it.
‘That’s the price one has to pay to be at the top. Ruthless. Efficient. Dominant. It can wear on a man’s soul and mind… but not mine. It’s what I’ve felt like I’ve needed to right from the beginning.
‘So fuck all of you.’
He scowls, eyes hardening.
‘Screw Torture for trying to hold me down. Fuck Camila for always trying to stack the deck against me. I hate the media for pushing the Lockhart/Flash narrative, and Jared for his role in it all.
‘Fuck Wade for not winning Havoc, and Pasternak for being too damn lazy and self-hating to reach his potential. Kyle Kemp can suck my dick for never breaking the glass-ceiling, and Lincoln Kuechly for being right there with him… as for Spencer? He’s just as bad for letting them die in the mid-card.
‘Fuck Holliday and her All-In. If you even come near me with that shit I will blast you so fuckin’ hard you’ll be eating from a tube for the rest of your life. I have no respect for you and your fake badass attitude. I called you out for months and you didn’t do shit, but you have the gall to call me out in your promos?
‘I hate Michael X and everything he stands for.
‘Miss me with all that Dandy/Kidsgrove bullshit that should’ve ended months ago. Your pettiness is why neither of you will ever touch me or my World Title. Try it.
‘Fuck ZMAC for being the best gatekeeper in wrestling, and Shadow for being right there with him. Either come for the crown or shut the fuck up.
‘Fuck Jaice for nearly humiliating me in front of everyone, and Corey Black for giving him a match when it should be me getting that opportunity to annihilate a legend.
‘When I look around all I see is the place I’ve built… and realize how much I hate it. Knowing that 95% of you have no respect for me makes me sick to my fuckin’ stomach. I’ve slaved away for more than a year, begging to fight and be fought. Why don’t I get the same adoration? When will I be given the same recognition that lesser athletes are getting?’
He sighs.
‘But... I love it too. I wouldn’t have done anything I did without it all.
‘Casey nipping at my heels.
‘Dandy and Kidsgrove fighting with the hearts of true warriors.
‘ZMAC and Shadow laying the formula on being two of the most interesting and marketable superstars in The World.
‘Jaice for refocusing me.
‘Corey Black for seeing potential before anyone else did.
‘My #BeachKrew boys for giving me the last push into achieving greatness, and #FightSmart for being a common goal to motivate us and help me improve.
‘...and Mikey?’
He smiles.
‘Everything I hate about you… will be what I channel when I defend all of this history that surrounds us at Evolution II.
‘Who said that deep down, I wasn’t a great guy?’
A wink.
‘This is MY federation. You’re not about to take that from me.
‘No-one can.’
The image cuts to black, but we can still hear Ryan’s voice.
‘And for my future kid, whoever you are… this one will make you proud to be called a Lockhart.’