Glory Braddock vs. Shaun Cruze vs. Kemal Yilmaz vs. Amelia Nevado

[Kemal Yilmaz]

Number One Contendership for the SCW World Championship

2 RP Limit for singles

3500 Word Per RP

Deadline: 11:59:59 pm ET Saturday, March 21, 2026

[Braddock]

1 of 2
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March 12th, 2026
London, England
Off Camera
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The Braddock family home sat on a quiet street in London that had changed very little over the years. The buildings along the block were tall narrow townhouses built in an earlier era when brick and stone were meant to last for generations. The house itself carried that same sense of permanence. Its exterior was still the same pale brick Glory remembered from childhood, softened by decades of rain and cool English air. The windows faced the street in tidy symmetry, their frames freshly painted, their glass reflecting the gray afternoon sky. It was simple, practical, everything that her father Glenn Braddock stood for. Everything that Glory herself was used to. With the next SCW pay per view, Retribution, to be held in her home of London, England, The British Bombshell felt it would be a good idea to spend some time at the place she grew up, where she called home. Hopefully some of the familiarity would calm the nerves heading into Retribution. Inside, however, the house no longer felt quite the way it once had. There was no familiarity. The living room had always been the heart of the home, the place where evenings gathered naturally after long days and where arguments and laughter once lived side by side. Glory remembered it as smaller, simpler, filled with practical furniture that had been chosen for comfort rather than appearance. Back then there had been a modest television tucked into a corner cabinet, a worn sofa with cushions that never seemed to stay in place, and shelves that held more family photographs than decorations.Now the room carried a different atmosphere.

Julia Braddock, Glory’s sister, lived here now and she had clearly made her mark on it. The walls had been repainted in a warm neutral tone that reflected light gently around the space. The old carpet had been replaced with polished hardwood floors that gleamed beneath the overhead lights. A thick area rug in soft shades of cream and charcoal sat at the center of the room, anchoring the seating area with quiet elegance. The furniture was newer and more refined than what had once been there. A sleek sofa upholstered in smooth pale fabric faced the far wall, accompanied by two matching armchairs that curved slightly in design, their cushions perfectly arranged. Even the lighting had changed. Tall standing lamps with slender brass stems flanked the seating area, casting a soft golden glow that made the room feel warmer than the cloudy London afternoon outside. Decorative shelves now lined one wall where the old cluttered bookcases had once stood. They held carefully chosen pieces that reflected Julia’s taste for things that were just a bit more luxurious. A few small sculptures in polished stone. Crystal vases that caught the light. A framed abstract painting that probably cost more than the entire living room had been worth years ago.

The largest difference sat directly across from the sofa. Mounted against the wall was a massive flat screen television that dominated the room in a way the old set never had. The screen was wide and vivid, the image crisp and bright even with the lights on. Beneath it rested a sleek black console that held sound equipment and neatly arranged media devices, each wire hidden carefully out of sight. The screen played a replay of SCW Breakdown, the Spring Break edition. It was on a beach in Florida, Glory’s residence of Miami would have made it an easy trip to make, but The British Bombshell wanted to be focused on the task at hand. She wanted to be ready for Retribution; it would be her opportunity to earn another shot at the SCW World Championship. It would not be easy; she would have to get through a four way against Shaun Cruze, Kemal Yilmaz, and Amelia Nevado. And to add to the pressure, she will be in front of her hometown fans of London, England.

She does not want to let anyone down. She also does not want to let this potential SCW World Title opportunity go to waste. So instead of being on the beach for the Spring Break Breakdown special, Glory chose to return to her roots and prepare. Part of the prep included watching Breakdown. Keeping up with current events. Glory Braddock sat on the sofa watching it. She leaned back into the cushions with one arm resting along the back of the couch, her posture relaxed but attentive. One leg stretched out slightly while the other bent comfortably at the knee. She wore dark blue jeans that fit snugly through the hips and thighs before loosening slightly along the lower legs. The denim was soft from wear, creased naturally where her body moved. Her shirt was a simple long sleeved top in a deep charcoal color, the fabric light enough to move easily but thick enough to hold its shape. The sleeves were pushed halfway up her forearms in a casual gesture that seemed unconscious. The shirt fit comfortably across her shoulders and torso, the fabric gently outlining the strength in her frame without feeling tight. On her feet she wore dark socks rather than shoes, the kind meant more for comfort than style. One heel rested lightly against the edge of the sofa cushion while the other foot pressed against the floor as she shifted her weight occasionally. Her long blonde hair fell freely over her shoulders, slightly tousled as though she had run a hand through it more than once.

Her expression remained thoughtful as she watched. This house carried memories in every corner for her. Some were clear and vivid. Others existed only as faint impressions that surfaced unexpectedly. The smell of the wood polish on the floors reminded her of long afternoons when her father insisted the place be kept tidy. The shape of the room itself still followed the same outline she remembered running through as a child. Yet the details felt different now. Julia’s presence had refined the house into something more polished. The changes were not excessive but they were unmistakable. Everything looked cleaner. Sharper. A little more expensive than it once had been. It suited Julia perfectly. In a way it made Glory a little uncomfortable. This makes her feel more distant from her father, not closer.

“Oh Jules, dad would be rolling over in his grave if he lived to see what you did to the place.” Glory speaks with a light chuckle, not speaking to her sister because she isn’t home. Just speaking out loud.

Then the knocking came. It was firm and deliberate, echoing through the front hallway of the house. Not loud enough to sound impatient, but clear enough that whoever stood outside expected the door to be answered. Glory straightened slowly. For a moment she simply listened, the television continuing to chatter behind her. When the knocking came again she reached for the remote resting on the coffee table and pressed the power button. The screen went dark instantly, leaving the living room in a calmer silence.

She stood and stretched her back slightly, the movement subtle but familiar after sitting still for too long. A few strands of her long blonde hair slipped forward over her shoulder as she walked out of the living room and into the hallway. The house felt quiet around her again. The polished floor beneath her socks made almost no sound as she crossed the entryway toward the front door. Glory reached the door and opened it.

Sophie O’Brian stood on the front step, framed by the cool gray light of the London afternoon. She wore a deep green skirt that fell neatly just below her knees, its color rich against the muted tones of the street outside. Her cream blouse remained crisp despite the weather, the sleeves fitted cleanly at her wrists. Her ankle boots were tidy despite the damp pavement, the tan leather slightly darker near the soles from the moisture in the air.

“So the rumors are true; London’s proudest child has returned.” Sophie says with a smirk on her face. Glory rolls her eyes.

“Is that your way of saying ‘hello, Glory, can I come in?’”

“Yes.” Sophie nods her head politely.

Glory stepped back from the doorway and moved aside, allowing Sophie to enter. The cool air from outside followed her into the house before the door closed again, leaving the warmth of the interior to settle back around them. Sophie paused just inside the entryway, glancing around with quiet curiosity. The polished floor, the updated lighting, the decorative touches Julia had added to the house all stood out to someone who had not grown up there.

“Well now, this certainly looks…”

“Different.” Glory states plainly. Sophie pauses for a moment and then nods her head.

“That’s one way of putting it.”

“I take it you are not a fan of Julia’s decor?”

“Her decor is fine.” Sophie answers. “Quite honestly, Julia and I have similar tastes. I just preferred our father’s home to remain in its old simplistic way. Call it nostalgia.”

“On that we agree.”

Glory gestured down the hallway and began walking back toward the living room. Sophie followed her at an easy pace, her boots making soft controlled steps against the wooden floor. As they moved deeper into the house the living room opened ahead of them again, warm and inviting under the soft lighting. The large television screen now sat dark and reflective against the wall, the sleek console beneath it quiet and still. Glory moved toward the sofa and sat down first, settling into the cushions with the same relaxed posture she had held earlier. One arm rested along the back of the couch while her other hand dropped casually against her thigh.

Sophie stepped farther into the room, taking a moment to look around before choosing a seat in one of the armchairs across from the sofa. The chair curved slightly around her as she sat, the green of her skirt folding neatly across her lap.

“I see you cleaned up well after your little excursion into the SCW Underground Division.” Sophie states. A sly grin forms on her face. “Tell me, was that one Underground Title reign worth it?”

“Don’t start playing mind games, Sophie.” Glory sighs out of frustration.

“Oh these are no mind games I assure you. I am beyond that now.”

“I somewhat doubt that.”

“Fair enough, but I am beyond playing mind games with you. I am asking honestly; was it truly worth the rigorous and rather unorthodox training you put yourself through, the violence you endured that night, just for one title reign? Just to say you now have won every title in SCW at least once?”

“It was worth it.” Glory nods her head. “I learned a great deal about myself preparing for that Underground Gauntlet and by competing in it. I grew as a competitor that night. I expanded my skill set. Believe it or not, Sophie, professional wrestling isn’t always going to be a standard one on one match. In case you forgot, Kemal Yilmaz is still barking about wanting an Ultimate Submissions Match and that, for all intents and purposes, is Underground Rules because the only falls that count are submissions…no pins, countouts, OR disqualifications…plus I’m in a four way at Retribution, a shot at the world title at stake…nothing but chaos there, I need to be ready for that kind of violence, don’t you agree?”

“Very well, Gloria, you made your point.” Sophie pauses and looks around at her surroundings, all brand new to her. Everything that has changed since her other half-sister took over this place. “So this new decor is all Julia’s doing?” Sophie asks. Glory nods her head.

“Yes.”

“And where is Julia?”

“Busy at her charity foundation.”

“And what of your husband Kurt?”

“He stayed back at Miami.”

“So you came back all on your own.” Sophie says. “And I am not surprised that you decided to return home as opposed to making an appearance for SCW Breakdown.”

“Oh really?” Glory arches her brow. “You think you know me so well?”

“I know very well and I know the idea of wrestling on a beach isn’t exactly your idea of ‘the spirit of wrestling’...”

“Spirit of competition.” Glory says, correcting. “That’s what this business is about.”

“It doesn’t matter. My point stands, you never would have been caught dead on that beach. Tell me I’m wrong.”

“You’re not wrong.” Glory shakes her head and sighs. “But that’s only a small bit of it; Retribution is next and it will be right here in London, at Wembley, in front of my hometown fans…people who remember the Braddock name, who still revere our father…and I want to be prepared, Sophie. I cannot let them down.”

“Oh my dear sister.” Sophie shakes her head, looking almost sad for her. “You are truly overthinking this. Or perhaps you are letting the pressure of competing in front of your fans get the best of you? Either way, this isn’t terribly difficult.”

“You remember what dad said…take every opponent seriously. Anyone can be beaten in that ring on any given night.” She holds up three fingers. “And in this particular match I have THREE opponents who could easily get the job done against me.”

“I remember that lesson quite well.” Sophie nods her head. “But I believe you are giving them a little too much credit. Kemal Yilmaz? Amelia Nevado? How many times have you beaten the pair of them already? Do not answer that, we both already know that they cannot beat you.”

“Wrong.” Glory shakes her head.

“I am correct.” Sophie nods her head. “The only competitor you really should be concerned with is Shaun Cruze and now that he is no longer in the good graces of the CEO, you might have a legitimate shot.” Sophie winks.

“Bullshit. And I don’t think you give Amelia and Kemal enough credit.” Glory states bluntly. “The moment I decide not to take this challenge seriously is the moment any of them could catch me sleeping and beat me. Do you really think I want to get caught napping and then lose at Wembley in front of my people?”

“Fair point.” Sophie nods her head. “I still believe you are giving your opposition way too much credit. You are Glory Braddock, the best wrestler in the world.” Sophie sighs. “But, if you insist, I will help you prepare.”

“Huh?” Glory furrows her brow out of curiosity. “I didn’t ask…”

“But you were about to.” Sophie smirks. “Tonight. Tomorrow. The next day. At some point you were going to ask me to help you prepare, because I do know you Gloria, and I know that this SCW World Championship is very important to you. Your one and only reign was something left to be desired.”

“Well…” Glory sighs “...you’re right about that…

“And despite my own FACTUAL claims that you are leaps and bounds better than Yilmaz and Nevado, there is still Shaun Cruze, the one person who could beat you, who is likely favored, and will have just as much support in Wembley as you.” Sophie smirks. “You need my help. You need assistance from the best strategist and tactician you know.”

“Well…” Glory sighs and nods her head “...I would definitely appreciate the help.”

“And helping you prepare for this match at Retribution will be far more fulfilling and satisfying than that barbaric nonsense you had me prepare you for a few weeks ago.”

“That ‘barbaric nonsense’ snagged me another title win.” Glory smirks knowingly.

“Yes, this is true…granted it lasted for all of about a few minutes…”

Glory and Sophie share a light bit of laughter. Yes, they disagree, their philosophies are quite different, but they are sisters and they are closer now than ever before. Their bond is stronger than ever. The British Bombshell always viewed Sophie as her equal, her peer, even though Sophie didn’t always view herself in that same light. If there is one person who can help her prepare for the war at Retribution, it is Sophie O’Brian; perhaps Sophie can help her get one step closer to the SCW World Title?

“You know Sophie, I am glad we can talk like this again. I am glad we are close with each other again. I might not have said it enough but I always trusted you to keep me honest, to keep me in check.”

“The feeling is mutual.” Sophie remarks. “Speaking of keeping you honest…” her voice trails off. Glory rolls her eyes.

“Oh no, that doesn’t sound good.”

“Oh it’s nothing…too bad…” she smirks knowingly “...I was just curious, I recall a few months back you were contemplating selling your company. A company you worked very hard to rebuild and make into a success story. You wanted to sell it because you feared what corporate life might do to you.”

“It’s a legitimate fear.” Glory nods her head. “Anytime I get too involved with my company, with those lawyers and executives, I have to stoop to their level, I have to become just as cutthroat as them in order to keep MY vision of the company intact. And when I become that cutthroat it corrupts me. I find it hard to bring myself back to where I want to be. Honestly it is best if I stay as far away from the corporate life as possible…but…”

“But?”

“You are right. Running away from my problem is cowardly and we Braddocks are not cowards. So I am not going to sell the company.”

“Excellent.” Sophie smiles, nodding her head approvingly. “I am confident you can handle both the corporate life and your career as a wrestler without being changed by it.”

“Well, you see, that’s where we’re going to have to agree to disagree.” Glory says, smiling sheepishly.

“What do you mean?”

“I am keeping the company….but I am going to hire someone else to enforce my vision. Call it a chief of staff of sorts. Someone who knows what I want to see done and will see that it gets done. Someone who will keep me distanced from my company while making sure my vision for the company remains.”

“Bloody hell…” Sophie shakes her head out of frustration.

“I take it you don’t like my idea?”

“You don’t get it, do you, Gloria?” Sophie sighs. “You are STILL running from the problem. Your solution is still cowardly because you are getting someone else to deal with the problem as opposed to you dealing with it yourself.”

“I know you may think that but trust me, it is for the best.” Glory insists. “I have tried for years to do both, I have tried for years to manage the company myself, but each and every time I do, I end up letting the cutthroat executives and crooked lawyers corrupt me and turn me into someone I hate.”

“Gloria…” Sophie tries to speak but Glory interrupts.

“Sorry, Sophie, but believe me when I say that this is for the best.”

[Shaun2025]

PRESENT DAY INNER THOUGHTS – OFF CAMERA

Never for a second did I think it was going to be easy. Coming back into a company renowned for its talent, having just had a major refresh, was always going to be difficult. The pool was now hungrier and more desperate for success than every match was a test. I have already faced the World Champion, narrowly losing, and the number one contender, winning by disqualification, and right now I feel closer to my former self than I have ever felt. I felt ready to now push on, and instead of warmups, started contending for titles. I’m not stupid though, I know the World title is out of reach right now. I still had some dues to pay before I reached that level. But one of the so called ‘lesser titles’ something I had never subscribed to, those had to be my targets. Recent actions by some have shown me one thing at least. This whole sneak attack bullshit, I was more than accustomed to. I’m thankful that former enemies had shown up and made sure the damage wasn’t anymore serious. More than that though it showed me something else. These people’s words betrayed them, and ultimately, I was a threat to what they wanted to achieve. Ultimately, they knew that I was ready to get back on the ‘Impact’ trail and once again be the Impact Player. A man I lost so long ago.

PREVIOUSLY – OFF CAMERA

(Having made peace with Angyalka, and found his way back into Dorothea’s life, Shaun felt that finally he had stabilized a ship that was in danger of capsizing. He’d had intrusive thoughts, but never acted on them, the depth of his despair never reached breaking point, but he wasn’t stupid enough to recognize that he had come close. He knew the damage had been done to Angyalka, and a friendship was the best he could now hope for, her pride ensuring she could never go back. But now, for both, it was Dorothea that was the only important thing, and thus Shaun had thrown himself into that. They had rebuilt their relationship through visits, and trips to Dorothea’s favorite places, and slowly but surely everything had normalized. Thanks to Kelcey, Shaun had found his own peace and was now only looking forwards… with just one more bridge to rebuild. The last time he had seen his nephew Owen, it had ended with Owen punching him and sending him overboard, not his finest moment amongst a mountain of embarrassing situations in recent memory. Thankfully, this meeting had been arranged in the Miami branch of ‘Next Level’, which was closed to everyone now except the two of them. Shaun tries the door and it opens into the massive space, a couple of wrestling rings in the far corner. It is in one of these rings that Owen is adjusting the ropes in preparation for a class later. He stops what he is doing to turn to Shaun, sliding off the apron before approaching.)

Owen: Got to admit, I didn’t expect to see you walk through that door

Shaun: Well, sometimes you just got to suck it up. And anyway, prefer to stay dry thanks.

(There is a glimmer of a smile forming on Owen’s face which reassures Shaun a little.)

Owen: Drink?

Shaun: I’ll take a bottle of water if you’ve got one.

(Owen doesn’t say anything but pulls a couple of bottles out a cooler, throwing one over to Shaun. The two of them then walk over to the weights area, both taking a seat.)

Owen: So, would it be presumptuous of me to assume that you’re here to offer an apology? Because if not, I’d don’t think there is much more to say.

(Shaun unscrews the top, taking a sip from the bottle and immediately wishing it was something stronger.)

Shaun: Not presumptuous at all, that’s exactly why I am here.

Owen: I know… I’ve spoken with Angy and Kelcey. Good to know you are getting your shit together.

Shaun: The things I said to you…

(Owen holds up his hand.)

Owen: Look, let me save you the trouble Shaun. Apology accepted, I know you were going through a rough time.

Shaun: That doesn’t excuse it though

Owen: No, it doesn’t… but we wouldn’t be Cruze’s if we didn’t fuck up from time to time, and when I was being a dick, you never gave up on me. I’m just glad that you’ve repaired your relationship with Dorothea and are at least on speaking terms with Angyalka.

Shaun: Well, I gotta say it anyway. I’m sorry Owen.

(Owen now smirks.)

Owen: I’m not sorry for putting you in the ocean… that shit was funny.

(They both shared a laugh, the atmosphere now clear and back to normal they could both relax.)

Owen: So, sorry to ask, but there is no chance you get back with Angyalka?

(Shaun pauses for a moment, wanting to make sure he puts it in the right way.)

Shaun: Honestly Owen, I love Angyalka, truly I do. But even if she wanted something, and know how proud she is, I very much doubt it, I don’t think I can give her what she wants. I know I made a mistake with the affair, and I’ll forever own it, but a true husband wouldn’t have done that. I think it’s best for both of us if we focus on Dorothea, and make sure she has the life she deserves. And she will get that for sure.

Owen: That’s a shame, but I get it

Shaun: Yeah, it seems we are not all family types like you.

Owen: Well, if Dorothea doesn’t suffer, it sits a lot better with me. So, what have you been up to?

Shaun: In all honestly, not a lot more other than spending time with Dorothea. Not a lot more for me to do in all honesty.

Owen: The offer is still there for you to help run this place. We’ve got some proper talent here that you could really shape into something special.

Shaun: That’s really kind of you, but it would be one hell of an undertaking, and I’m not sure I can commit to it. I’d have to move out here, and so I’d be away from Dorothea, hence it doesn’t make any real sense.

Owen: Yeah, I get that. Part-time?

Shaun: You know me Owen, if I’m going to commit to something, I’m not going to do it half-arsed, and those kids deserve better. So, I’m going to stick to my original decision, but thanks anyway.

Owen: So, what do you reckon will be your next move. We both know you can’t just sit still.

Shaun: I’m sure something will come along… maybe I’ll buy back into Impact Media

(Again, they both chuckle, knowing that it was a nonstarter.)

Shaun: Or start a clothing brand… not like the Cruze’s have done that before right?

(Owen smirks, his own clothing brand he’d built with Kloe and then sold having made him a lot of money.)

Shaun: I don’t know, I’m sure something will come up. But right now, I’m happy just the way things are.

(Owen takes a sip of his drink and then places the bottle on the floor. His eyes never leave Shaun, giving Shuan the impression that Owen had something to say.)

Owen: I did hear something that you may be interested in. Something that you could have as little, or as much input as you wanted. I don’t know if it’s true or not, but it might be worth looking into.

Shaun: I’m open to suggestions… if it isn’t an acting part. I think I’ve embarrassed myself in that vocation enough.

Owen: I told you not to play the receptionist in Ghostbusters.

Shaun: Hey, I was the best part of that film I’ll have you know.

Owen: No, seriously though… I was talking to Taylor the other day, and she reckons that Drew is looking for investors.

Shaun: Drew… Bryant

Owen: The very same

Shaun: I’ve not heard that name for ages. What does he need investors for?

(Owen pauses dramatically, before continuing.)

Owen: He’s looking to bring back EMERGE.

(In the not-too-distant past, EMERGE has been a successful alternative to SCW. In fact, there had been many successful EMERGE wrestlers that have gone on to compete for the SCW brand. Shaun couldn’t lie; it was a prospect that excited him. An excitement that he hadn’t felt for the longest time.)

Shaun: That’s interesting.

Owen: Yeah, Taylor reckons that Drew believes he can topple SCW this time, but he doesn’t have the funds to put it all together. These investors are supposed to be silent, but she reckons if someone had experience of running a brand, he might give them some creative lead as well. It could be worth looking into, even if you don’t go for it, and the best part?

Shaun: Go on?

Owen: He’s looking at basing headquarters out of Los Angeles, building a purpose-built arena, just for these events. You could work and never be away from Dorothea… it’s a win / win.

Shaun: It certainly sounds intriguing.

Owen: Something I’ve just thought of. If you did decide to go for it, I’d give you an exclusivity deal. First pick of any of the ‘Next Level’ talent. I know Adam was looking at something similar with EAW, but he’d understand. He benefits either way.

Shaun: And you ‘just’ thought of that huh?

Owen: Hey, we’ve got some real talent here Shaun, but they would still be rookies and EMERGE in the beginning would be a much better learning curve than SCW where they would either sink or swim. EMERGE was always about bringing through talent, it could be that again.

(Shaun ponders on it for a second, going through the positives and negatives in his head. Positives, a job close to home and Dorothea. Huge positives. But it was a just as huge negative weighing on his mind more.)

Shaun: That’s going to take a heck of a lot of funding Owen. The deal I did with Angyalka over the divorce was more beneficial to her than it was me. Dependent on how many investors he has, I could probably cover it, but it would be pretty much everything I have.

Owen: I know… there are no guarantees of success. But there were no guarantees when you very first went into acting, and somehow you became a star. When you wrote and directed Battleground: Earth, there was every chance that it could bomb. Your wrestling career, you were an MMA fighter, you couldn’t have thought you would become World Champion. Impact Media… you won awards for some of the shows and films you produced. I know you have been down on yourself recently, but everything you have ever put your mind to has been a success

Shaun: Except my marriage…

Owen: Well yeah, except that. There’s no harm in going and having a chat with him is there, and who knows, maybe he doesn’t need an investment that’s going to stretch you.

Shaun: Nothing to lose from a conversation

Owen: Exactly. And anyway, did you and Drew used to be good friends? When was the last time you saw him?

Shaun: I think it was when EMERGE closed.

Owen: So maybe the catch up will do you both good.

Shaun: Yeah OK, I’ll get in touch. Nothing to lose.

Owen: Nice one… nothing like hard work to get you back on your feet.

Shaun: Says the guy who has everyone do the hard work for him.

Owen: And they get paid well for doing it as well. Holidays with my family, rest and relaxation, except for the occasional maintenance works on a ring… I can cope with that. I did the hard miles at a young age and now I’m happy to reap the benefits. Twenty-six years old Shaun…

Shaun: I’m jealous

Owen: Don’t blame you, I would be as well. But you can be happy again, I know you can, even if the ‘family life’ isn’t for you, you can still be an amazing Father. And hey, maybe you can be the guy that finally toppled SCW as the behemoth of wrestling.

Shaun: We’ll see

Owen: You’re the Impact Player right… making impacts is what you do.

(Shaun raises his bottle, Owen picks his up and they touch them together.)

Shaun: Oh… don’t suppose you have Drew’s number, do you?

Owen: It just so happens that I do.

(Shaun smirks, knowing that this was exactly what Owen had looked to achieve. Giving Shaun another purpose other than his daughter, a reason to belong. That was exactly what he needed, and maybe bringing back EMERGE was the way. He knew it, everyone knew it. There could never be anything more important in his life than wrestling. Yes, Dorothea was AS important, that went without saying. But since his debut in the Independent Wrestling Cartel, he had lived and breathed the sport. He thought he could walk away from it on many occasions, but each time it had dragged me back. And now, it looks like it was going to do the same again, once again giving him that purpose he needed. He wasn’t stupid, he knew it was almost an illness. He didn’t know why it continued to dominate his mind so. All he knew is that the moment Owen had mentioned the possibilities, his adrenaline had started to pump in a way it hadn’t since almost winning Taking Hold of the Flame and beating Konrad Raab. He was an alcoholic, that was certain, but wrestling was the drug to which he was addicted. The roar of the crowd, the chants, all of it. If he has a chance to be amongst that again, surely, he had to take it. The conversation with Drew would define that, was it a risk that he was willing to take. Already, he thought he knew the answer.

RECORDING – ON CAMERA

(Shaun sits on a simple stool, addressing the camera as it begins to film. There we no bells and whistles to his intro, he was ready to jump straight in. And in his usual confident tone, that is exactly what he does.)

“Ok, let’s all just calm down a little, shall we? Does the Supreme Championship Wrestling universe really believe that I wasn’t expecting to be jumped at some point of proceedings. For weeks now, I have been accused of favoritism because I had a couple of idiots following me around. When they were over-zealous and got into my business, they ‘sorted’ it out, rightly or wrongly. This was the reason that management thought I needed them, because it was obvious the moment I made my return this was going to happen. The biggest problem was that someone, I won’t name names, thought I needed help sorting it out. Of course, the cavalry came to my help a couple of weeks ago. Yes, if they hadn’t the situation could have gotten a lot worse for me and so I was glad of the help. But what people have forgotten is the adage that I have used throughout my entire career, and that is if you don’t kill me, then somewhere down the line you are going to receive the receipt. Gavin Taylor thought he was clever… I call it something else. Gavin Taylor was once again the coward, not capable of getting it done so had to resort to a shot to the Generals. Just focus on that for a second… the number one contender had to kick me in the balls, because he was getting outclassed by someone who isn’t even close to the World title picture…YET. The fact he had to resort to that, and then the extra-curricular showed me in glorious technicolor that he knew he couldn’t beat me, never in a month of Sundays. In the same way he isn’t good enough to beat Syren at Retribution. Like I said, he’s stolen a living now for over a decade, he’s never going to change. So, nothing that happened there surprised me… the only surprise in reality was who came out to make the save. But thinking about it, I should really be surprised, because those that came to the ring may have faults, but they understand respect. Game, knows Game. The Goon Squad should have finished me, but they didn’t. They will pay the piper for those actions… I’ll be the one who delivers, pardon the pun, Retribution.

But I digress.

Because I can hear the ‘bells a ringing’ already.

Shaun Cruze, barely a couple of months since his return, is granted a match in which I could become the next number one contender. Now, let me say it now before someone else does, this is just as much a surprise to me as it is anyone else. I didn’t ask for a chance at a World Title opportunity, I sure as hell haven’t earned one, So why I am in this match considering the wealth of talent on show that lets face it, has earned it far more. I lost to David Stryker a few weeks back, he’d be a decent shout. I could go on and on, but what would be the point? My guess, my three opponents at Retribution have already made their minds up, but I’ll address them directly in my next offering. I got this shot, in certain individuals eyes, because of favoritism, right?

Wrong.

Let’s just back it up for a second, shall we? Point one, this isn’t a shot at the World Championship, I haven’t just been fast tracked to the party of the back of a flawed victory against Gavin Taylor. This is a four way match, thus all our odds are lengthened, I’ve got to do exactly what the three of them must. Point two, there are no guarantees that, like previous weeks, I’m not going to get jumped by the peanut gallery who seem intent on my blood. Point three, well that’s the most obvious one of all Ladies and Gentlemen, and the reason for my inclusion. I may not like it, but heck, it is what it is. I’m in this match, because whether I am competing at the top of my game or not, my name IS Shaun Cruze. When it comes to these corridors, just like Glory Braddock, I’m someone who has seen and done it all. Have I reached the heights required to be World Champion… absolutely not. But like it or not, Shaun Cruze on the nameplate of the SCW World Championship would be a heck of a draw for this company. You think the management is showing me favoritism… I’d argue that they are looking on me like I am a gigantic dollar sign.

And no, that isn’t the way things should be, and I’m sorry, but that is the way it is. My name generates a reaction, and that’s not arrogance, it the cold hard facts behind what my career has been when it comes to this company and it’s immediate rivals. I’m probably going into this match with the least momentum out of all of us, am I favorite to win? Probably not. But that’s not going to stop the board from doing what they are paid to do and make the big bucks.

And no matter what you all think, none of the negativity is going to stop me from doing my job either. There’s a lesson for you all in this one, you NEVER look a gift horse in the mouth. Whatever you think, whatever you believe, opportunities like this are only there to be won. I’ve got my thoughts on my opponents which I will share later, but regardless of what I have said before, for varying reasons, this match IS winnable. So just think about that for a second, because we all know Syren will deal with Gavin. Think of the hype behind Syren versus Shaun Cruze for the World Championship. THAT is why I am here. And no matter what you think, no matter what you believe, my name HAS been earned. I’m not some fly by night or got a career of the back of my brothers name. Orlando did a lot, Owen the same… but one Cruze surpassed them both by winning more. That, is what my opponents must contend with. Win or lose, I’m giving it my all. Win or lose, no one is having this easy when I step into that ring. I’m here, I’m willing and eager to see if my best is now enough. You might not like me here… but you have no other choice than to deal with it.”

(Scene fades)

[Braddock]

2 of 2
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March 17th, 2026
London, England
Off Camera
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Each and every time Glory Braddock had to prepare for a big match, there is one place she felt drawn to, one place that made her feel at home and at ease; her home away from home, the Braddock Wrestling School. And at Retribution The British Bombshell will be in a very big match indeed against Shaun Cruze, Kemal Yilmaz, and Amelia Nevado. An opportunity to compete for the SCW World Title will be awarded to the winner. If it were against one of the three in singles competition, Glory would feel far more confident about her chances. This is a four way, however. She doesn’t even have to necessarily get pinned or made to submit in order to lose the match. This match is chaos and, with the exception of the Underground Gauntlet last month, The British Bombshell has had little experience or success with pure chaos. The bright lights will be shining at Wembley, the prize is clear, and Glory Braddock wants to be ready. So where else would she find herself than right here at the Braddock Wrestling School with her closest ally, her half-sister Sophie O’Brian?

The building itself was older than the name painted across the front windows. It was not an impressive place from the outside. There were no bright lights, no banners advertising championships, no posters screaming for attention. It looked more like a modest training hall than the birthplace of some of the toughest professional wrestlers in the business. Inside, the building carried the quiet honesty of a place built for work rather than spectacle. The front doors opened into a small entry area with plain tile flooring that had dulled from years of footsteps. A wooden bench sat against one wall where trainees often dropped their bags before practice. Beyond the entryway the training hall opened up. It was larger than the outside suggested but still simple in its design. The ceiling rose high enough to allow the ring to sit comfortably in the center of the room. Thick support beams crossed overhead, painted a dull industrial gray. Fluorescent lights hung from long fixtures, casting a bright and slightly harsh white light across the space. The lighting was practical rather than flattering, revealing every scuff and mark the room had accumulated.

The wrestling ring dominated the hall. Its frame was solid and heavy, the black apron stretched tightly around the base with the school’s name printed in bold white lettering. The ropes were wrapped in clean white tape that had been replaced many times over the years. The canvas carried faint stains and discolorations from thousands of training sessions. Around the ring thick mats covered the floor, their surfaces worn smooth by constant use. Against one wall stood a collection of equipment. Folding chairs stacked neatly in a corner. A rack of barbells and weights that looked old but dependable. Several heavy bags hung from steel brackets bolted into the beams above, their surfaces cracked slightly from years of strikes. A large mirror covered part of the far wall, though even it had scratches and faint smudges that never fully disappeared no matter how often it was cleaned.

The building was empty when the doors opened. The quiet inside felt almost heavy compared to the muted noise of the street outside. The faint echo of footsteps carried easily across the open floor as Glory Braddock and Sophie O’Brian stepped inside. Glory entered first, pushing the door open with her shoulder while carrying a small training bag in one hand. She moved with the easy familiarity of someone who had spent countless hours inside the building. The air smelled exactly the way she remembered. Canvas, rubber mats, metal, and the faint lingering scent of sweat that no cleaning solution ever truly erased. She was dressed for training. Her wrestling gear was simple and practical. A black athletic tank fitted closely across her torso, the fabric flexible enough to allow full movement. Dark wrestling shorts rested comfortably at her hips, the material durable but light. Her boots were a deep charcoal color, laced tightly up her calves with white laces pulled firm. The leather showed the creases of long use, but they had been maintained carefully. Her wrists were already wrapped in white athletic tape, the layers pulled snug across her knuckles and around the base of her thumbs. The tape contrasted sharply against her skin. Her long blonde hair had been pulled back into a tight ponytail that fell between her shoulders, keeping it clear of her face once the sparring began.

Sophie followed a step behind her. She paused briefly just inside the doorway, taking in the familiar sight of the empty training hall before stepping fully onto the mat covered floor. Her training outfit carried her usual preference for green, though it remained practical for the work ahead. She wore a fitted athletic top in a deep forest green that contrasted with her dark hair. The fabric hugged her frame without restricting movement. Her leggings were black and closely fitted, the material thick enough to protect against the rough canvas while still allowing flexibility. The leggings were tucked neatly into her wrestling boots. Her boots were black with subtle green accents along the laces and trim, a small personal touch that reflected her style without being flashy. The soles looked sturdy and well worn, the leather polished but clearly used for serious training. Her hands were wrapped in white tape as well, though her wraps had been applied with careful precision. The tape lined her fingers and knuckles evenly before crossing over her wrists. Her dark brunette hair had been braided tightly down her back, the braid reaching nearly to the middle of her shoulder blades.

The two women walked farther into the training hall together.

“Back again.”

“Where else would I go?” Glory says with a knowing grin. “Dad would always bring me here to train, to prepare. He would have a unique game plan for each match and each opponent. I can only imagine what he might have come up with for this four way at Retribution.” Glory looks over at Sophie and smirks. “Hopefully your devious mind can come up with something just as vicious.”

“Oh I most certainly assure you that it can.” Sophie answers back with confidence. “I am just pleased that I am now preparing you for something a little more…orthodox.” She sighs. “That last sparring session when you had Mark and I double team you was…troubling…”

“This is a four way, Sophie…” Glory says flatly “...how is that orthodox?”

“It’s not that insanity you had me prepare you for last time.” Sophie snaps back. “And at least this time the rules are brutally simple; one fall to a finish.. Not as much chaos.”

“Still there will be chaos.” Glory points out. “I have to keep my head on a swivel, I have to keep my eyes out for three opponents, not just one.”

Their footsteps echoed softly as they approached the ring. The fluorescent lights hummed faintly above them, casting clean light across the canvas and ropes. The building felt larger without other trainees present. The Braddock Wrestling School did not look impressive in the way many modern facilities tried to be. It lacked polish and decorative flair. Yet everything about the place spoke of effort, discipline, and history. In the center of it all stood the ring, waiting patiently. Braddock scans the area, looking for something. Then she spots it…and points…

“There it is.”

“What?”

“The camera.” Glory says. “Go get it.”

“Seriously?” Sophie sighs out of frustration. Glory nods her head.

“Yes. I want to send a message ahead of Retribution.” She grins knowingly.

“This is the least entertaining part of the job.” Sophie shakes her head. “This is St. Patrick’s Day. I am Irish. Northern Irish but still. I would love to celebrate by fighting with you and getting drinks later. Instead you wish me to be your cameraperson?”

“We will fight and yes, we can go get drinks later.” Glory nods her head. “But I do need a camera operator, so please?”

“Very well.”

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On Camera
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Glory Braddock, The British Bombshell stands in front of the wrestling ring. A smirk is etched across her face as she stares deep into the camera, clearly exuding confidence; not arrogance, just simple confidence.

“Here we are again!” Braddock is beaming from ear to ear simply because she is right here at her father’s school, where she feels most comfortable. “The last time I spoke to you was right here in my own father’s wrestling school. Obviously things were nowhere near as tidy as they are now and I was preparing for something extremely different from what comes my way at Retribution. Back then I had chosen to enter the Underground Gauntlet, one of the most chaotic, wild ideas to ever come from CHBK. And y’know what? Even though I only got one Underground Title reign to my name for it, and even though I didn’t even walk away from the event as the champion, I can honestly say that chaotic gauntlet was a good thing for me. In fact, I would dare say it was the best thing that could have happened to me at this stage in my career with SCW. Now I can already hear the armchair quarterbacks right now…what makes you say that? I was beaten up, battered, and bruised, and all for just a title reign that lasted a few minutes.” Braddock snickers knowingly.

“Sounds a lot like my SCW World Title reign, if we’re honest. That’s something else I’d like to correct. But to those armchair quarterbacks out there questioning whether or not The British Bombshell has taken one too many chair shots to the head, let me remind you and everyone else out there listening that I did not enter the Underground gauntlet with the sole intent of winning championship gold. I recognized the fact that I had become complacent, that I was content with who I was as a competitor and that I did not need to grow or add any further depth to my game. I wanted to learn more about myself as a competitor. I wanted to add some more layers and weapons to my arsenal. I entered myself into an environment where I am at my weakest…an environment based entirely upon chaos. I failed to walk away as the Underground Champion but I succeeded in growing as a competitor. I succeeded in learning and adapting to the one environment where I am at my weakest; the environment of chaos. And I became a far more dangerous competitor as a result.”

“Now I prepare myself to walk into Wembley. I prepare to step out into the squared circle yet again, this time in front of my hometown fans, with the United Kingdom at my back. I prepare to enter another chaotic environment…a four way dance to determine the number one contender to the SCW World Championship, another title I only held for a few minutes. I wanted to be SCW World Champion ever since I signed with this promotion and the one time I did win it, it only lasted a few minutes, and has eaten away at me ever since. I have been fighting like hell to get back to the top, to earn another opportunity, to get the chance to right that wrong.” She shakes her head. “Only to be denied again and again. I was denied because I was content. I thought I already had enough weapons in my arsenal to get the job done.”

“Things are different now. I am a very different Glory Braddock. I mean it when I say that I am a far more dangerous competitor and part of what makes me more dangerous is that I now know how to handle myself in a chaotic environment. So when Retribution comes to Wembley and I am taking on three very tough and very game competitors all with their eyes on the same prize as me, I KNOW that I am the most prepared, most capable, and most dangerous wrestler in the match.” The British Bombshell smirks knowingly. She points at the camera. “Which spells bad news for Kemal Yilmaz, Amelia Nevado, and Shaun Cruze.”

“Let me start with Kemal…I may have made a mistake earlier saying that I am taking on three competitors who have their eyes on the same prize. Me, Cruze, and Nevado all want to be SCW World Champions. But you? Let’s face it, we all know what you want; you don’t want a title. You want to fight me in an ultimate submissions match. This isn’t about championships for you. This is about proving you are better than me, testing yourself against The British Bombshell, this is an opportunity for you to make your case to CHBK to get that ultimate submissions match you’ve been badgering on and on about. And hey, I’m game. But let me give you one little word of warning, mate…you are NOT focused. Your eyes are NOT on the prize. That means you’ve already lost. You should be focused on taking all three of us down, you should be focused on trying to be next in line for the SCW Title. Instead you’re focused on yours truly.” She snickers. “I’m flattered but trust me, I’m out of your league and your lack of focus WILL lead to your downfall.”

“Then there’s my old sparring partner Amelia Nevado.” She sighs. “Part of me feels guilty. I feel like I am partially to blame for your recent depression lately. You issued your challenge to me and you couldn’t get the job done. We have done battle three times one on one and all three times I beat you. I respect the hell out of you, Amelia. You may not believe it but I do respect you and trust me, those three matches could have gone either way. Unfortunately you are having a similar problem as Kemal.” She points to her head. “Your mind isn’t right. Your head isn’t in the zone. Now you may not be obsessing over me the way Kemal is, but you are obsessing…you are obsessing over picking up a major win. You are obsessing over proving you are not just one half of Light in the Darkness. But that’s the thing, I know it…most of SCW knows it…I think you’re the only one who has any doubts right now. Doubts are dangerous, Amelia. People like me, I feed off of doubt. If you come into Retribution with doubt, I will damn sure take advantage and put you down again.”

“Last but certainly not least there’s Shaun Cruze.” Glory Braddock shakes her head. “Don’t worry, mate, you won’t get the typical line of attack about Hollywood making you soft or any of that from me. I know better because I have been watching. Hollywood has not softened you. Hell, you are tougher than ever. It would have been so much easier to take the ‘assistance’ of CEO Frank Delatosso but you didn’t. Instead you spurned him. You rejected him because you wanted to do things the right way. You and I seem to be of the same mindset; it’s all about competition. It’s about testing ourselves against the best names in this promotion, seeing if we still have what it takes to call ourselves the best in the world. I can respect that.” The British Bombshell shakes her head.

“Problem is, Shaun, respect has to be put to the side. You are standing between me and the chance to right a wrong. You want to see if you still can go? You want to see if you’re still as good as you once were? Hell, you have had your world title reigns. But yours lasted longer than a few damn minutes. Yes, I am a former SCW World Champion, I am a Supreme Champion, but I NEED to turn back the clock and right that wrong. I NEED to win back the SCW World Championship and you are standing in my way so that means I have to put you down.. I have to put an end to your great comeback story.”

“The same goes for Kemal and Amelia. There is respect there but you both stand in my way. I don’t just want the SCW World Title, I NEED it. I NEED to right that wrong and I have to go through both you, and Cruze, to get that opportunity. That is why I have embraced the chaos. That is why I have decided to grow my game and evolve my arsenal. I have been changing and learning and educating myself all in preparation for this one moment in London, England at Wembley Arena. I admit, I had no idea it would actually be in front of my home fans in London. I had no idea it would actually be at Wembley. Yet here we are and I am in a must win scenario. I cannot and I WILL NOT lose.” Braddock shuts her eyes. “Sic Semper Tyrannis.”