03-21-2023, 10:58 PM
+++ 12th of March 2023 – Miami +++
There was no questioning it, Owen simply had to get out of New York. He of course answered the questions as was required. He stayed around as the police concluded their investigations. And then, when predictably they put it down as an overdose, and Tyler had taken his own life and they wouldn’t be taking it any further, Owen decided that for his own sanity he had to get back to Miami. The more he thought about his current situation, the more he believed he would feel relieved should Chris Clay not turn anything up on Eric Morris. He was full to the brim with New York now and getting away from that place actually held a great deal of attraction. Especially as he pounded the streets of Miami, and then made his way onto the beach, his thought processes on anything but what was going on at ‘Next Level’. The sun was shining, and sweat was dripping from his body… there were not many times when he was happier. But as he prepares to come back off the beach, and up a short path that would lead him back to the road, a ‘For Sale’ sign grabs his attention, Owen stopping in his tracks. He catches his breath for a few moments and wipes the sweat off his forehead with his tee shirt, and then makes his way up to the building, a building that he had noticed before but never been inside. As he reaches the front door, he meets someone else coming out.
Owen: Hey…
Man: Hey man, afraid we’re not taking on any more memberships at the moment.
The guy points over at the sign.
Man: We’re selling up and moving back to LA.
Owen had noticed the gymnasium a few times on his runs, but as he had his own inbuilt gym at the house, he’d never joined up. Owen holds out his hand.
Owen: I’m Owen
Man: I’m Joel… sorry we can’t help you out, but we are hoping for quick sale. No point taking on any new clients if the new owner turns it into accommodation.
Owen looks at the building, his mind already going into overdrive.
Owen: Yeah, makes sense… but maybe we can help each other out.
Joel: What do you mean?
Owen: I run a wrestling school in New York and was looking to branch out into other areas.
Joel: I see… well, I’ve got five minutes if you want to take a look around
Owen: Do you… that would be great.
Joel opens the door and Owen follows him inside and straight away Owen recognizes how many people are working out, and how hardly any of the machines are not in use. Immediately Owen is impressed by the sheer scale of the place and concludes that it is a bigger space than even the building in New York. Admittedly it was only on one floor, which meant it probably wouldn’t be suitable as a school AND shelter, but it was certainly something to think about. After being shown the changing rooms, a Jacuzzi / Spa area, and the car parking space out back, Owen had a good feeling about the whole thing. The fact that it was in Miami would make the whole process that much easier. Having completed the tour, Joel leads Owen to the coffee machine, and makes him a flat white. The two of them then take a seat.
Joel: So, what do you think?
Owen: It’s certainly impressive.
Joel: You reckon you could make it work… as a wrestling school I mean.
Owen: Well, to be honest with you, I’d probably keep the gym open and work the school around it.
Joel: The current members would be happy with that.
Owen: And it’s all profitable yeah? You’re not just getting out of dodge because the place is failing.
Joel shakes his head with a grin on his face.
Joel: I don’t know you Owen, but I consider myself an honorable man. You’re more than welcome to look at the books if you wish, but this place is mostly full throughout the day. My boyfriend and I just want to get back to Los Angeles because we were both born there, we both have family there and want to settle down.
Owen: Yeah, I lived in LA for a while too.
Joel: Then you’ll know what I mean. It’s where we belong.
Owen: So… if you are looking for a quick sale, is there a deal to be made?
Joel: I’m looking for the best deal I can, but the fact you will keep the place open means a lot to me. I’m sure we could find some common ground.
Owen: Fair enough… can I take your number? I’ll talk it over with the accountant and then get back to you.
Joel: Sounds good…
Joel pulls a business card out his pocket and passes it to Owen.
Joel: Don’t hang around though, the For Sale board only went up this morning and there’s been a fair bit of interest. No one else wanted to keep the place going though so I’d rather sell it to you if I can.
Owen: It will be this afternoon… if anyone comes in with an offer before then, just let me know.
Joel: Nice one… can I just say, you don’t seem like the kind of person who would run a wrestling school. You seem a bit…
Owen: Young?
Joel: Well, yeah… I hope you don’t take offence to that. I know these days that people are getting richer younger, but I don’t want to be wasting my time if you don’t have the means.
Owen laughs, it was something that he’d gotten used to ever since O-CRU and the sale of what became a popular clothing brand. Truth was, many of the major decisions were made by people with much bigger business brains than he had. But this building, this place… it just seemed right. If he did have to sell the premises in New York, this was the perfect place for him to continue to ‘give back’ to a business and a life that had given him everything.
Owen: Don’t worry, I get that a lot. I’m not trying to scam you, and ‘Next Level’ isn’t the first company I’ve owned. I’m also a professional wrestler…
The guy’s eyes light up, as recognition finally hits him.
Joel: Owen Cruze… I knew I recognized the face. I don’t watch wrestling, but I think I’ve seen you on television.
Owen: Maybe…
Owen moves to downplay the situation
Owen: But needless to say, I have ‘means’, please don’t worry. Speaking with the accountant will be merely a formality. I’ll hopefully have an offer for you some time early afternoon, how does that sound?
Joel: Great. I’ll let you get on with it then, unless there is anything else?
Owen: Yeah… any wannabe gangsters around here?
Joel: What?
Owen laughs, getting to his feet.
Owen: Ignore me… I’ll be in touch Joel
Joel looks a little confused but shrugs off the comment as irrelevant.
Joel: Look forward to hearing from you.
Owen gives him a nod and then heads to the door, walking outside and about twenty feet away from the building. He looks back, and can already imagine the signage, this place being just as busy as New York. He then wonders if Finch would come to live in Miami with him and help him to get this place off the ground just like he did in New York. This felt like an opportunity, even if they did find a way to get Morris off his back. An opportunity to branch out, his dream for ‘Next Level’ to be worldwide that little bit closer. A man walks past him carrying a gym bag, another member perhaps. The more Owen thought about it, the more he believed this was a good thing. He then looks down the road, and with a smile back towards the building he begins the run home. His thought now totally dominated by potentially his new school.
+++ 15th of March 2023 – New York +++
The whole process from finding the Gym, to speaking to both the owner and his accountant, to then having an offer accepted, had taken no more than a few hours. The document process was now underway, and Owen hoped to hear something within the next few days. Truth was, he didn’t really want to be back in New York, but by the same token, he’d wanted to inform Finch what was going on, and how the option would be there to relocate. He certainly hasn’t dismissed the idea out of turn, but it was clear that he would have preferred it if New York stayed open. Unfortunately, it was starting to look like Chris Clay was going to come up empty handed, and that wouldn’t be a choice. It's late at night, Owen seated on the edge of the ring and although Owen thought he was going to get back to his hotel room earlier than this, it hasn’t turned out that way. He looks at his watch, and then listens to his stomach gurgling, deciding that he was only going to stay another five minutes.
Owen: So, if we just concentrate on the school in Miami, and perhaps look into a shelter down the line if there is the ‘need’ there. I’ve taken a look at the books, and they are very good, and have a regular intake of new memberships.
It looks like Owen is talking to himself, but he is actually making a voice recording to refer to later
Owen: If Finch agrees to come to Miami, then I don’t have to worry about someone to look after the place. Finch has more than proven himself…
The door bursts open, no knock or anything. Owen isn’t particularly surprised to see Eric and his usual two heavies stood with him. Owen curses Finch for once again forgetting to lock the door, assuming that because Owen was working late, he didn’t have to. Owen jumps to his feet, it not seeming like Eric was in the mood for a conversation and looking every bit like a person who had come with the intent of action.
Eric: Working late Owen… I like to see a young man with a good work ethic.
Owen: You know how it is Eric, always a deal to be made.
Eric: So, I hear…
Owen wasn’t a paranoid person and knew that Eric couldn’t possibly know about the deal in Miami. But that said, it wouldn’t be beyond the realms of possibility that he had in some way found out.
Owen: What can I do for you Eric… I was just about to leave.
The two men with Eric move to either side, seemingly to block off any path should Owen choose to run. Even with their size, Owen was confident he could take both if he had to.
Eric: I was just wondering if you had given any further thought to my proposition with regard to this place. Can I just say, it certainly seems like the stresses of running this place are starting to get to you?
If Owen was stressed it was more to do with the pressure Eric was applying, more than running a business that was a definite success. Owen keeps his thoughts to himself though, he sure as hell didn’t want to antagonize him.
Owen: I don’t think so, in fact I love what we are doing here. That’s what makes it difficult to let it go, never mind how much you are offering.
Eric: I get that… I can see with my own eyes that you are doing good things here.
Owen: So, should I sell, I’d need certain ‘assurances’.
Eric: Such as?
Owen: I don’t want you to buy the business and then raze it to the ground out of spite. I’ve worked too hard to build this for you to do that.
Eric: As I said to you before Owen, I’m not trying to pull the wool over your eyes. This place will remain open, and in fact will become even bigger and better with the resources I have at my disposal. I’m doing this to help with my ‘colorful’ reputation, I’m not going to achieve that by closing the whole place down am I, it would just do the opposite. Who knows Owen, maybe I can take ‘Next Level’ and make it into something not even you have imagined. Have you thought about that? I know what you think about me, but I’m not looking to buy out of some feeling of spite. My problem was with Jason King, and you did as I asked. And let’s face it, if this was ‘spite’ and I had a grudge with you personally…
He pauses and looks at his men with a huge grin on his face.
Eric: …I would have just taken ‘Next Level’ from you. I wouldn’t have even asked.
Owen nervously laughs, what he knew about Eric proved that he was more than capable of doing that.
Owen: I know
Eric: So, what’s it going to be Owen?
Owen was stalling, but at the same time he knew that he couldn’t stall long enough. Chris Clay wasn’t going to burst in within the next five minutes with the dirt that he required, and it seemed that by the same token, Eric had no intention of walking out of the building without an answer.
Owen: Eric, I built this place from the very bottom. It was my vision from which this whole thing came about.
Eric: So, what do you want? A plaque or something?
Owen: No, I want you to understand just how much work went into building ‘Next level’. I want you to understand just how much money it would take to let this place go, while at the same time letting down everyone involved.
Eric: Ah, now you are starting to talk my language.
Eric pulls out a notepad, and on it writes a number. He then tears the paper from the notepad and folds it up, passing it to Owen.
Eric: I’m sure you will agree that is a more than generous offer.
Owen opens it up, his eyes widening at the figure that it probably twice as much as the place is worth. The amount literally makes it clear to Owen just how far Eric was willing to go to get what he wanted. Owen bites his bottom lip. He couldn’t deny that he was tempted to take the money and run back to Miami and start again, but what would that mean for everyone else.
Owen: Wow
Eric: I am willing to pay that amount of money KNOWING how much work you have put into it. Consider it recompense for all your efforts, and a good start towards whatever you do next.
Again, the thought crosses Owen’s mind as to what Eric was implying. And there was no question, the amount would buy the gym in Miami with a little bit besides. But still Owen hesitates, a hesitation that this time, seems to wind Eric up, his heavies moving in a little closer.
Eric: And if you don’t sell to me Owen, then I will have to revert to Plan B. Because Owen, I would hate for someone you love ending up like Mr. Norton. You’d be surprised how easy it is to make something look like an overdose these days, especially one of the poor unfortunates who reside on New York’s streets.
The two men grin, Eric wears the sly look of someone who was now making a threat and proving that he was more than capable of making good on it. For the first time, Owen had to admit that he was fearful of what happened next, if Eric didn’t get his way.
Owen: You killed Tyler?
Eric: Don’t tell me that the thought didn’t cross your mind, Owen. Tyler was a nobody, an afterthought, hence why the law’s investigation was, inadequate at best. But to you, Tyler was the perfect example to show you what could happen should you choose to cross me. Yes, Owen… I killed Tyler, and if you don’t give me what I want, he most certainly won’t be the last. And next time, it will be someone a LOT closer to you.
Owen lowers his head to the floor, knowing that he no longer had a choice.
Owen: OK, you win.
Eric: Excuse me, I’m not sure I heard you correctly.
Owen: I’ll sell… I’ll accept your offer.
Eric almost sneers and wears the look of a victorious man. He nods to the two men, who take a couple of steps back, there being no need for further threats.
Eric: I have your word? And your acceptance of what happens should you renege on this deal?
Eric holds out his hand, Owen reluctantly taking it. The two sharing a headshake that Owen really wanted no part of.
Eric: Excellent, I knew you would see sense. I would instruct my lawyers to draw up the documentation. It should be with you in the next couple of days.
Owen doesn’t say a word, and just simply nods.
Eric: Don’t be so sad Owen, you did a good thing here, and set yourself up for life. Leave the rest to me.
He motions towards the guys, who head towards the door.
Eric: Good doing business with you Mr. Cruze.
Eric smiles again and then heads to the door, Owen consumed by guilt because of what has just happened. He looks around the place, not really believing that soon it wouldn’t be his. As he looks around, he notices his phone glow up, and picks it up, only now remembering he’d forgotten to turn off the voice recording feature. His eyes then widen, and he realizes that he could have just recorded that entire conversation. He stops the recording, but before he can play it back, the phone rings, Jennifer’s face on the front. Flustered, he answers.
Owen: Hey…
Jennifer: Hey
Owen: Everything OK? Bit late for you to be calling?
Jennifer: Yeah, I know sorry.
Owen: What’s up?
Jennifer: I need to see you; can you get to LA?
Owen: I can… but this sounds serious. Can’t you tell me over the phone?
Jennifer pauses, until finally replying.
Jennifer: No… I need you hear.
Owen: OK, I’ll see what flights are available… but it might not be till tomorrow morning.
Jennifer: That’s fine… just get here. As soon as you can.
Owen: OK…
Jennifer: I love you… see you soon.
Owen: Love…
The phone goes dead, Owen trying to digest everything that had just happened. Had he just a confession from Eric on his phone… he’d know the answer to that shortly. But more importantly, what was going on with Jennifer? The answer to that was nearly 3000 miles, and a flight away. And it didn’t seem like when he arrived, it was going to be good news.
+++ 18th of March 2023 – Dallas, TX +++
Owen Cruze stands in front of the AT & T arena in Dallas, ahead of the latest ‘most important’ match of his life. He stands with his hands placed firmly inside the pocket of his latest piece of merchandise, a hoodie commemorating the two title belts he currently, proudly held. His hood is currently up, but with a nod and an acknowledgment of the camera, he brings it down, tilting his head ever so slightly to the side and revealing a Dallas Cowboys cap. His face is stoic, emotionless, his tone the same as he starts to speak.
“In this business, there are very few people who I would call friends. Yeah, I have a lot of acquaintances and people that I will stop and talk to if I pass them in the corridors, but someone who I could legitimately spend time with, or have a drink in a local bar after the show, are very few and far between. The mere aspect of this business means that it is difficult to form friendships, knowing that the very next week you could be facing them, the mischievous booking staff doing their best to sell tickets, or increase viewing figures. And unfortunately, we’ve seen it all a million times, friendships imploding over jealousy, or a multitude of other reasons. I mean, I can probably count on one hand those people in the business who I would have at some point trusted them with my life. Peyton Rice, Jennifer, AJ Helms, Christian Cannon to name pretty much those that currently come to mind. But there was one more addition I could have made to that number, if I hadn’t lost my mind and split up the Perfect Pack. That person, was Alistaire Allocco.”
A flicker of emotion sparks over his face, a momentary hint at what was going on under the surface. He nods his head, confirming the statement he has just made, and then, having composed his thoughts he continues.
“There will be those that will remember that Alistaire and I were inseparable, or at least we thought we were for a time. Yeah, he lost his way a little, I lost mine a lot, but just like the others I have mentioned, there was always going to be that bond… like brothers. Why am I telling you all this? I’m telling you this because you need to understand why I reacted in the way I did a couple of weeks ago on Breakdown. You need to understand why I bloodied Alistaire Allocco with the SCW World Championship belt. I need you ALL to understand that Adam Allocco is the biggest jackass on this roster. Last year, this guy was getting all the plaudits for a redemption story that was movie script worthy. He’d come back from the abyss to once again claim his place on top of the Supreme Championship Wrestling tree. I remember, there were people that felt sorry for Adam when he was targeted by Xander Valentine, booed when he lost the Championship to the Executioner. He milked the glory, OH MY GOD he milked the glory. He loved once again having a place in all our hearts and won award after award based on that newfound acceptance of a man who had cleaned himself up and rid himself of his demons. That story Ladies and Gentlemen, you could copy and paste it onto my own, though until I won the World Championship, I didn’t have the World pandering to my every move, like Mr. Allocco did. Adam and I BOTH came back from the brink, having almost destroyed our careers. The thing is though guys, one of us was telling the truth, the other… well, he kept the most important piece of his particular story away from the limelight, knowing that if the World knew his secret, he would have to work much, MUCH harder to appease the masses who hated his guts. THAT is why I bloodied Adam Allocco on Breakdown. I took him to task for fooling each and every one of us. I smashed that son of a bitch’s face in, because I more than anyone, except for perhaps Adam himself, OWE Alistaire Allocco for what I did to him. Thing is, Alistaire and I fell out over a difference in opinion… I wasn’t the one who was driving the car that all but certainly ended the career of one of the most promising superstars of the time. And he can deny it all he wants… because I’ve seen the evidence, thanks to the one man who has always promised the truth… Xander Valentine. There is only one conclusion that anyone could come to… Adam Allocco is a fucking FRAUD, pardon my language. And should never, wear the SCW World Championship belt ever again.
And if you Adam, believe that I’m turning this match into some kind of revenge mission, then you would most certainly be wrong. Fact is, I couldn’t give a shit if Adam Allocco is a fraud or not, but I can tell you that my Dad and indeed Shaun had you pegged as such a long time ago. Wasn’t that the basis of the hatred towards Cruze family, jealousy for what they had achieved, and both knowing exactly what kind of man you are? No, what I do care about is a man who can look a person in the eye and claim that they are a better person, whilst not being able to own what should be seen as the biggest mistake of his life. Not being able to admit something that changed the life of his own flesh and blood. And yes, what you saw on Breakdown was my feelings boiling over, kicking myself having given you a chance. Yes, what you saw on Breakdown was someone who had to literally pull himself back, before he did some real damage, and made it so that you were incapable of even stepping into the ring at Retribution, never mind wrestling. But don’t for one second think that will be my attitude towards you with the Championship on the line. I’ve beaten the crap out of you, now, I just want to beat you and put you at the back of the queue where you belong. Retribution is quite apt, consider that is what I want, for all the people, including Alistaire, who believed that you had changed. You win the World Championship Adam, and that tells an entire new era of wrestling fan, and potential superstars that it’s OK to play with people’s emotions to make YOU and only YOU feel better about yourself. And I cannot and will not allow that to happen.”
Owen straightens out his jeans, and then takes a seat on the top step in front of the arenas entrance. Several fans walk past him, pointing him out to others who haven’t noticed whilst being polite enough to leave him be.
“And I can hear you now Adam, in that pathetic little man-child voice of yours, waxing lyrical about me being the ‘kid’ who doesn’t realize who he is messing with. And that’s the thing isn’t it, you have never, ever been able to see me as anything else, even when I beat you within the confines of the Elimination Chamber at Under Attack. When Dad beat you, he was still way too over-hyped for you to stand. When Shaun beat you, he was the luckiest person alive. Not once, not ever could you comprehend quite simply that they were better than you. And here we are… in my eyes as equals, and you still don’t get it to you? You still see me as this ‘kid’ who Supreme Championship Wrestling bends over backwards to give a platform, simply because I achieved the greatest prize in our industry at an almost record-breaking age of nineteen, against Alistaire none the less. Even back then you made our confrontation about you, though you had nothing to do with it. You implored Alistaire to employ dubious means to get it done, with that precious ‘fatherly’ advice. All because of YOUR bullshit issues with my family. And that’s why you openly refuse to accept me as who I am. YOUR World Champion Adam. Go on, it won’t hurt you… say the words chief. YOUR World Champion who had a TRUE redemption story and owned every single bad thing I did. See me as the ‘kid’ if it helps you to sleep at night. Belittle me at every opportunity, if you believe for one second that anyone is buying your bullshit.
But seeing as the truth is revealing itself, how’s about I throw another in your direction? The truth that at, at twenty-three years old, am more of a man than you will EVER be and am doing things that right now in your advancing years, you cannot even contemplate. You used to have your wrestling ability to hold over me Adam, but I’ve even closed that gap, to the point that many in our industry, people that know their stuff, regard YOU as the underdog. And Adam Allocco, I know full well that has to be eating you alive. Thing is, if the guilt of destroying your son’s life didn’t take you down, your failing career most certainly won’t. You’ll still be around regardless, like the bad smell that you have become. You hate the fact that I beat Xander, and you couldn’t. And because of that, Xander told me the truth. Best thing for us all would be for you to go away… but you won’t. I’m not naïve enough to think that. But you sure as hell ain’t leaving Dallas with anything but the clothes that you came with. There will be no addition to your weight allowance to worry about when you step on the flight home.”
A young boy nervously walks up to Owen, catching his eye. Owen motions for him to come over, the kid holding out a Retribution program
Kid: Could you sign this for me?
Owen: No worries, what’s your name little man?
Kid: Brody
Owen: OK…
He signs it, with a special message, before passing it back.
Owen: You got tickets for tomorrow?
The kid, obviously nervous nods his head, as his parents walk up behind him.
Owen: Can I count on you giving me a massive cheer when I wrestle Adam?
Again, Brody nods, Owen reaching out and ruffling his hair. He then takes off his cap.
Owen: Can I borrow that pen again Brody?
He looks who at his parents who nod, Brody passes the pen across, Owen signing the rim of the cap, and then placing it on the boy’s head.
Owen: Wear that, and if I can see you when I win, I’ll give you a wave yeah?
Brody nods, the Father taking his hand.
Owen: See you around Brody
The kids turn around and gives Owen a wave, Owen then turning back to the camera with a smile on his face.
"See Adam that is what being a ‘whiny little kid’, in your opinion gives you. It gives you respect from people, who even though I have made a multitude of mistakes in my life, can still come up to me because I am accessible. Can you imagine that kid walking up to you? Can you imagine his parents letting him come anywhere near you? You couldn’t look after your own son… who going to trust you with the most precious thing in their lives. That’s why you hate me Adam, not just because I'm Orlando’s son, or Shaun’s nephew, but because I am everything that I say I am, with literally no heirs and graces. What I did over the course of this last year IS impressive, there is no question about it, and it quite literally eats you alive, me being nothing like the picture that you try to paint, every single time we find ourselves on opposite sides of the ring. It gives you this overriding obsession with me. An absolute desperation to beat me and put me in my place. Oh, I know Adam, beating me, A Cruze, means almost as much as claiming the World Championship. And seeing as you think so little of me, that’s kind of pathetic… don’t you think? But honestly, with everything I have learned of late, everything I know of you from the past, I cannot think of a better word to sum you up. Pathetic… that’s exactly what you are. And ultimately Adam, it’s coming into this match, one of the most important of your career, with that desperation hanging over you, which is going to cost you. There is no question that you are one of the most talented wrestlers on this roster, but honestly, I HAVE to question whether you really want this enough. We’ve seen it, so many times, how you get yourself out of dodge when things start going against you. We’ve seen how you folded under the onslaught of Xander Valentine… though I guess we know the reason for that know. I hope you’ve looked back through my matches, and not let your hubris blind you. I’ve getting a habit of only needing one opportunity to put my opponents away, and the way you are being right now, that one opportunity presenting itself is inevitable. I’m prepared for this match Adam with my eyes wide open. Yours, are firmly pressed shut. THAT is why I win at Retribution Adam, because you don’t know me. You’ve never known me, or my family. Unfortunately for you, that obsession is one you will have to take to your grave. An itch, you will NEVER get to scratch.”
Owen gets to his feet, putting his hood back up and stepping forwards, walking to the bottom of the steps.
“And so, and I bring this promo to a close, I hope that the information that you sorely needed has started to seep through and into your brain. That being that taking this World Championship away from me is far from a foregone conclusion. What you need to do before Retribution is separate what you think about the Cruze name, away from my abilities as a wrestler, and then at least you will have a starting point from which you don’t, by your own actions, give yourself LESS of a chance of victory, while improving my chances. Thing is Adam, I shouldn’t be telling you this. I shouldn’t be the one who needs to educate you on the way this business works. The things you have done for this industry, both inside the ring and behind a desk, it’s deserving mention, and you deserve credit. But it seems that even with that experience, you STILL allow yourself to be blinded by your arrogance, and don’t see your situation for what it is. I’m come too far for you to be the one to derail me. I still need this title reign to be one that is remembered. I’ve beaten Xander Valentine, I’ve beaten the Hairless Penguin, and I’ve beaten Kimberley Williams. But yours will arguably be the most prestigious name should I add you to that list. And the more I think about it Adam, then the more I believe that to be a reality. Everything is pointing towards another successful title defense. And should I achieve that Adam, it will be time for you to put all this to bed. Time for you to drop the hatred and concentrate on REALLY fixing the damage you have done. Because believe it or not Adam, it’s never been all about you, and right now, there is something much more important than playing a game it’s getting more and more difficult to win. You’re one of the best ever, but I’m faster than you, I’m as technically proficient, and right now I’m stronger than ever and truthfully Adam, I believe I’m better. You lose, and I’m afraid it’s time for you to draw the same conclusions. But of course, you won’t, because you are the ’great’ Adam Allocco, a man to whom no one else can compare…”
Owen salutes the camera, following it up with a wink.
“I just wonder when that name stopped being a gift… and instead became a curse. I’ll be seeing you in that ring real soon Adam… and I’ll be leaving it, STILL SCW World Champion.”
Owen walks away from the camera, and away from the arena, as the scene slowly fades.
There was no questioning it, Owen simply had to get out of New York. He of course answered the questions as was required. He stayed around as the police concluded their investigations. And then, when predictably they put it down as an overdose, and Tyler had taken his own life and they wouldn’t be taking it any further, Owen decided that for his own sanity he had to get back to Miami. The more he thought about his current situation, the more he believed he would feel relieved should Chris Clay not turn anything up on Eric Morris. He was full to the brim with New York now and getting away from that place actually held a great deal of attraction. Especially as he pounded the streets of Miami, and then made his way onto the beach, his thought processes on anything but what was going on at ‘Next Level’. The sun was shining, and sweat was dripping from his body… there were not many times when he was happier. But as he prepares to come back off the beach, and up a short path that would lead him back to the road, a ‘For Sale’ sign grabs his attention, Owen stopping in his tracks. He catches his breath for a few moments and wipes the sweat off his forehead with his tee shirt, and then makes his way up to the building, a building that he had noticed before but never been inside. As he reaches the front door, he meets someone else coming out.
Owen: Hey…
Man: Hey man, afraid we’re not taking on any more memberships at the moment.
The guy points over at the sign.
Man: We’re selling up and moving back to LA.
Owen had noticed the gymnasium a few times on his runs, but as he had his own inbuilt gym at the house, he’d never joined up. Owen holds out his hand.
Owen: I’m Owen
Man: I’m Joel… sorry we can’t help you out, but we are hoping for quick sale. No point taking on any new clients if the new owner turns it into accommodation.
Owen looks at the building, his mind already going into overdrive.
Owen: Yeah, makes sense… but maybe we can help each other out.
Joel: What do you mean?
Owen: I run a wrestling school in New York and was looking to branch out into other areas.
Joel: I see… well, I’ve got five minutes if you want to take a look around
Owen: Do you… that would be great.
Joel opens the door and Owen follows him inside and straight away Owen recognizes how many people are working out, and how hardly any of the machines are not in use. Immediately Owen is impressed by the sheer scale of the place and concludes that it is a bigger space than even the building in New York. Admittedly it was only on one floor, which meant it probably wouldn’t be suitable as a school AND shelter, but it was certainly something to think about. After being shown the changing rooms, a Jacuzzi / Spa area, and the car parking space out back, Owen had a good feeling about the whole thing. The fact that it was in Miami would make the whole process that much easier. Having completed the tour, Joel leads Owen to the coffee machine, and makes him a flat white. The two of them then take a seat.
Joel: So, what do you think?
Owen: It’s certainly impressive.
Joel: You reckon you could make it work… as a wrestling school I mean.
Owen: Well, to be honest with you, I’d probably keep the gym open and work the school around it.
Joel: The current members would be happy with that.
Owen: And it’s all profitable yeah? You’re not just getting out of dodge because the place is failing.
Joel shakes his head with a grin on his face.
Joel: I don’t know you Owen, but I consider myself an honorable man. You’re more than welcome to look at the books if you wish, but this place is mostly full throughout the day. My boyfriend and I just want to get back to Los Angeles because we were both born there, we both have family there and want to settle down.
Owen: Yeah, I lived in LA for a while too.
Joel: Then you’ll know what I mean. It’s where we belong.
Owen: So… if you are looking for a quick sale, is there a deal to be made?
Joel: I’m looking for the best deal I can, but the fact you will keep the place open means a lot to me. I’m sure we could find some common ground.
Owen: Fair enough… can I take your number? I’ll talk it over with the accountant and then get back to you.
Joel: Sounds good…
Joel pulls a business card out his pocket and passes it to Owen.
Joel: Don’t hang around though, the For Sale board only went up this morning and there’s been a fair bit of interest. No one else wanted to keep the place going though so I’d rather sell it to you if I can.
Owen: It will be this afternoon… if anyone comes in with an offer before then, just let me know.
Joel: Nice one… can I just say, you don’t seem like the kind of person who would run a wrestling school. You seem a bit…
Owen: Young?
Joel: Well, yeah… I hope you don’t take offence to that. I know these days that people are getting richer younger, but I don’t want to be wasting my time if you don’t have the means.
Owen laughs, it was something that he’d gotten used to ever since O-CRU and the sale of what became a popular clothing brand. Truth was, many of the major decisions were made by people with much bigger business brains than he had. But this building, this place… it just seemed right. If he did have to sell the premises in New York, this was the perfect place for him to continue to ‘give back’ to a business and a life that had given him everything.
Owen: Don’t worry, I get that a lot. I’m not trying to scam you, and ‘Next Level’ isn’t the first company I’ve owned. I’m also a professional wrestler…
The guy’s eyes light up, as recognition finally hits him.
Joel: Owen Cruze… I knew I recognized the face. I don’t watch wrestling, but I think I’ve seen you on television.
Owen: Maybe…
Owen moves to downplay the situation
Owen: But needless to say, I have ‘means’, please don’t worry. Speaking with the accountant will be merely a formality. I’ll hopefully have an offer for you some time early afternoon, how does that sound?
Joel: Great. I’ll let you get on with it then, unless there is anything else?
Owen: Yeah… any wannabe gangsters around here?
Joel: What?
Owen laughs, getting to his feet.
Owen: Ignore me… I’ll be in touch Joel
Joel looks a little confused but shrugs off the comment as irrelevant.
Joel: Look forward to hearing from you.
Owen gives him a nod and then heads to the door, walking outside and about twenty feet away from the building. He looks back, and can already imagine the signage, this place being just as busy as New York. He then wonders if Finch would come to live in Miami with him and help him to get this place off the ground just like he did in New York. This felt like an opportunity, even if they did find a way to get Morris off his back. An opportunity to branch out, his dream for ‘Next Level’ to be worldwide that little bit closer. A man walks past him carrying a gym bag, another member perhaps. The more Owen thought about it, the more he believed this was a good thing. He then looks down the road, and with a smile back towards the building he begins the run home. His thought now totally dominated by potentially his new school.
+++ 15th of March 2023 – New York +++
The whole process from finding the Gym, to speaking to both the owner and his accountant, to then having an offer accepted, had taken no more than a few hours. The document process was now underway, and Owen hoped to hear something within the next few days. Truth was, he didn’t really want to be back in New York, but by the same token, he’d wanted to inform Finch what was going on, and how the option would be there to relocate. He certainly hasn’t dismissed the idea out of turn, but it was clear that he would have preferred it if New York stayed open. Unfortunately, it was starting to look like Chris Clay was going to come up empty handed, and that wouldn’t be a choice. It's late at night, Owen seated on the edge of the ring and although Owen thought he was going to get back to his hotel room earlier than this, it hasn’t turned out that way. He looks at his watch, and then listens to his stomach gurgling, deciding that he was only going to stay another five minutes.
Owen: So, if we just concentrate on the school in Miami, and perhaps look into a shelter down the line if there is the ‘need’ there. I’ve taken a look at the books, and they are very good, and have a regular intake of new memberships.
It looks like Owen is talking to himself, but he is actually making a voice recording to refer to later
Owen: If Finch agrees to come to Miami, then I don’t have to worry about someone to look after the place. Finch has more than proven himself…
The door bursts open, no knock or anything. Owen isn’t particularly surprised to see Eric and his usual two heavies stood with him. Owen curses Finch for once again forgetting to lock the door, assuming that because Owen was working late, he didn’t have to. Owen jumps to his feet, it not seeming like Eric was in the mood for a conversation and looking every bit like a person who had come with the intent of action.
Eric: Working late Owen… I like to see a young man with a good work ethic.
Owen: You know how it is Eric, always a deal to be made.
Eric: So, I hear…
Owen wasn’t a paranoid person and knew that Eric couldn’t possibly know about the deal in Miami. But that said, it wouldn’t be beyond the realms of possibility that he had in some way found out.
Owen: What can I do for you Eric… I was just about to leave.
The two men with Eric move to either side, seemingly to block off any path should Owen choose to run. Even with their size, Owen was confident he could take both if he had to.
Eric: I was just wondering if you had given any further thought to my proposition with regard to this place. Can I just say, it certainly seems like the stresses of running this place are starting to get to you?
If Owen was stressed it was more to do with the pressure Eric was applying, more than running a business that was a definite success. Owen keeps his thoughts to himself though, he sure as hell didn’t want to antagonize him.
Owen: I don’t think so, in fact I love what we are doing here. That’s what makes it difficult to let it go, never mind how much you are offering.
Eric: I get that… I can see with my own eyes that you are doing good things here.
Owen: So, should I sell, I’d need certain ‘assurances’.
Eric: Such as?
Owen: I don’t want you to buy the business and then raze it to the ground out of spite. I’ve worked too hard to build this for you to do that.
Eric: As I said to you before Owen, I’m not trying to pull the wool over your eyes. This place will remain open, and in fact will become even bigger and better with the resources I have at my disposal. I’m doing this to help with my ‘colorful’ reputation, I’m not going to achieve that by closing the whole place down am I, it would just do the opposite. Who knows Owen, maybe I can take ‘Next Level’ and make it into something not even you have imagined. Have you thought about that? I know what you think about me, but I’m not looking to buy out of some feeling of spite. My problem was with Jason King, and you did as I asked. And let’s face it, if this was ‘spite’ and I had a grudge with you personally…
He pauses and looks at his men with a huge grin on his face.
Eric: …I would have just taken ‘Next Level’ from you. I wouldn’t have even asked.
Owen nervously laughs, what he knew about Eric proved that he was more than capable of doing that.
Owen: I know
Eric: So, what’s it going to be Owen?
Owen was stalling, but at the same time he knew that he couldn’t stall long enough. Chris Clay wasn’t going to burst in within the next five minutes with the dirt that he required, and it seemed that by the same token, Eric had no intention of walking out of the building without an answer.
Owen: Eric, I built this place from the very bottom. It was my vision from which this whole thing came about.
Eric: So, what do you want? A plaque or something?
Owen: No, I want you to understand just how much work went into building ‘Next level’. I want you to understand just how much money it would take to let this place go, while at the same time letting down everyone involved.
Eric: Ah, now you are starting to talk my language.
Eric pulls out a notepad, and on it writes a number. He then tears the paper from the notepad and folds it up, passing it to Owen.
Eric: I’m sure you will agree that is a more than generous offer.
Owen opens it up, his eyes widening at the figure that it probably twice as much as the place is worth. The amount literally makes it clear to Owen just how far Eric was willing to go to get what he wanted. Owen bites his bottom lip. He couldn’t deny that he was tempted to take the money and run back to Miami and start again, but what would that mean for everyone else.
Owen: Wow
Eric: I am willing to pay that amount of money KNOWING how much work you have put into it. Consider it recompense for all your efforts, and a good start towards whatever you do next.
Again, the thought crosses Owen’s mind as to what Eric was implying. And there was no question, the amount would buy the gym in Miami with a little bit besides. But still Owen hesitates, a hesitation that this time, seems to wind Eric up, his heavies moving in a little closer.
Eric: And if you don’t sell to me Owen, then I will have to revert to Plan B. Because Owen, I would hate for someone you love ending up like Mr. Norton. You’d be surprised how easy it is to make something look like an overdose these days, especially one of the poor unfortunates who reside on New York’s streets.
The two men grin, Eric wears the sly look of someone who was now making a threat and proving that he was more than capable of making good on it. For the first time, Owen had to admit that he was fearful of what happened next, if Eric didn’t get his way.
Owen: You killed Tyler?
Eric: Don’t tell me that the thought didn’t cross your mind, Owen. Tyler was a nobody, an afterthought, hence why the law’s investigation was, inadequate at best. But to you, Tyler was the perfect example to show you what could happen should you choose to cross me. Yes, Owen… I killed Tyler, and if you don’t give me what I want, he most certainly won’t be the last. And next time, it will be someone a LOT closer to you.
Owen lowers his head to the floor, knowing that he no longer had a choice.
Owen: OK, you win.
Eric: Excuse me, I’m not sure I heard you correctly.
Owen: I’ll sell… I’ll accept your offer.
Eric almost sneers and wears the look of a victorious man. He nods to the two men, who take a couple of steps back, there being no need for further threats.
Eric: I have your word? And your acceptance of what happens should you renege on this deal?
Eric holds out his hand, Owen reluctantly taking it. The two sharing a headshake that Owen really wanted no part of.
Eric: Excellent, I knew you would see sense. I would instruct my lawyers to draw up the documentation. It should be with you in the next couple of days.
Owen doesn’t say a word, and just simply nods.
Eric: Don’t be so sad Owen, you did a good thing here, and set yourself up for life. Leave the rest to me.
He motions towards the guys, who head towards the door.
Eric: Good doing business with you Mr. Cruze.
Eric smiles again and then heads to the door, Owen consumed by guilt because of what has just happened. He looks around the place, not really believing that soon it wouldn’t be his. As he looks around, he notices his phone glow up, and picks it up, only now remembering he’d forgotten to turn off the voice recording feature. His eyes then widen, and he realizes that he could have just recorded that entire conversation. He stops the recording, but before he can play it back, the phone rings, Jennifer’s face on the front. Flustered, he answers.
Owen: Hey…
Jennifer: Hey
Owen: Everything OK? Bit late for you to be calling?
Jennifer: Yeah, I know sorry.
Owen: What’s up?
Jennifer: I need to see you; can you get to LA?
Owen: I can… but this sounds serious. Can’t you tell me over the phone?
Jennifer pauses, until finally replying.
Jennifer: No… I need you hear.
Owen: OK, I’ll see what flights are available… but it might not be till tomorrow morning.
Jennifer: That’s fine… just get here. As soon as you can.
Owen: OK…
Jennifer: I love you… see you soon.
Owen: Love…
The phone goes dead, Owen trying to digest everything that had just happened. Had he just a confession from Eric on his phone… he’d know the answer to that shortly. But more importantly, what was going on with Jennifer? The answer to that was nearly 3000 miles, and a flight away. And it didn’t seem like when he arrived, it was going to be good news.
+++ 18th of March 2023 – Dallas, TX +++
Owen Cruze stands in front of the AT & T arena in Dallas, ahead of the latest ‘most important’ match of his life. He stands with his hands placed firmly inside the pocket of his latest piece of merchandise, a hoodie commemorating the two title belts he currently, proudly held. His hood is currently up, but with a nod and an acknowledgment of the camera, he brings it down, tilting his head ever so slightly to the side and revealing a Dallas Cowboys cap. His face is stoic, emotionless, his tone the same as he starts to speak.
“In this business, there are very few people who I would call friends. Yeah, I have a lot of acquaintances and people that I will stop and talk to if I pass them in the corridors, but someone who I could legitimately spend time with, or have a drink in a local bar after the show, are very few and far between. The mere aspect of this business means that it is difficult to form friendships, knowing that the very next week you could be facing them, the mischievous booking staff doing their best to sell tickets, or increase viewing figures. And unfortunately, we’ve seen it all a million times, friendships imploding over jealousy, or a multitude of other reasons. I mean, I can probably count on one hand those people in the business who I would have at some point trusted them with my life. Peyton Rice, Jennifer, AJ Helms, Christian Cannon to name pretty much those that currently come to mind. But there was one more addition I could have made to that number, if I hadn’t lost my mind and split up the Perfect Pack. That person, was Alistaire Allocco.”
A flicker of emotion sparks over his face, a momentary hint at what was going on under the surface. He nods his head, confirming the statement he has just made, and then, having composed his thoughts he continues.
“There will be those that will remember that Alistaire and I were inseparable, or at least we thought we were for a time. Yeah, he lost his way a little, I lost mine a lot, but just like the others I have mentioned, there was always going to be that bond… like brothers. Why am I telling you all this? I’m telling you this because you need to understand why I reacted in the way I did a couple of weeks ago on Breakdown. You need to understand why I bloodied Alistaire Allocco with the SCW World Championship belt. I need you ALL to understand that Adam Allocco is the biggest jackass on this roster. Last year, this guy was getting all the plaudits for a redemption story that was movie script worthy. He’d come back from the abyss to once again claim his place on top of the Supreme Championship Wrestling tree. I remember, there were people that felt sorry for Adam when he was targeted by Xander Valentine, booed when he lost the Championship to the Executioner. He milked the glory, OH MY GOD he milked the glory. He loved once again having a place in all our hearts and won award after award based on that newfound acceptance of a man who had cleaned himself up and rid himself of his demons. That story Ladies and Gentlemen, you could copy and paste it onto my own, though until I won the World Championship, I didn’t have the World pandering to my every move, like Mr. Allocco did. Adam and I BOTH came back from the brink, having almost destroyed our careers. The thing is though guys, one of us was telling the truth, the other… well, he kept the most important piece of his particular story away from the limelight, knowing that if the World knew his secret, he would have to work much, MUCH harder to appease the masses who hated his guts. THAT is why I bloodied Adam Allocco on Breakdown. I took him to task for fooling each and every one of us. I smashed that son of a bitch’s face in, because I more than anyone, except for perhaps Adam himself, OWE Alistaire Allocco for what I did to him. Thing is, Alistaire and I fell out over a difference in opinion… I wasn’t the one who was driving the car that all but certainly ended the career of one of the most promising superstars of the time. And he can deny it all he wants… because I’ve seen the evidence, thanks to the one man who has always promised the truth… Xander Valentine. There is only one conclusion that anyone could come to… Adam Allocco is a fucking FRAUD, pardon my language. And should never, wear the SCW World Championship belt ever again.
And if you Adam, believe that I’m turning this match into some kind of revenge mission, then you would most certainly be wrong. Fact is, I couldn’t give a shit if Adam Allocco is a fraud or not, but I can tell you that my Dad and indeed Shaun had you pegged as such a long time ago. Wasn’t that the basis of the hatred towards Cruze family, jealousy for what they had achieved, and both knowing exactly what kind of man you are? No, what I do care about is a man who can look a person in the eye and claim that they are a better person, whilst not being able to own what should be seen as the biggest mistake of his life. Not being able to admit something that changed the life of his own flesh and blood. And yes, what you saw on Breakdown was my feelings boiling over, kicking myself having given you a chance. Yes, what you saw on Breakdown was someone who had to literally pull himself back, before he did some real damage, and made it so that you were incapable of even stepping into the ring at Retribution, never mind wrestling. But don’t for one second think that will be my attitude towards you with the Championship on the line. I’ve beaten the crap out of you, now, I just want to beat you and put you at the back of the queue where you belong. Retribution is quite apt, consider that is what I want, for all the people, including Alistaire, who believed that you had changed. You win the World Championship Adam, and that tells an entire new era of wrestling fan, and potential superstars that it’s OK to play with people’s emotions to make YOU and only YOU feel better about yourself. And I cannot and will not allow that to happen.”
Owen straightens out his jeans, and then takes a seat on the top step in front of the arenas entrance. Several fans walk past him, pointing him out to others who haven’t noticed whilst being polite enough to leave him be.
“And I can hear you now Adam, in that pathetic little man-child voice of yours, waxing lyrical about me being the ‘kid’ who doesn’t realize who he is messing with. And that’s the thing isn’t it, you have never, ever been able to see me as anything else, even when I beat you within the confines of the Elimination Chamber at Under Attack. When Dad beat you, he was still way too over-hyped for you to stand. When Shaun beat you, he was the luckiest person alive. Not once, not ever could you comprehend quite simply that they were better than you. And here we are… in my eyes as equals, and you still don’t get it to you? You still see me as this ‘kid’ who Supreme Championship Wrestling bends over backwards to give a platform, simply because I achieved the greatest prize in our industry at an almost record-breaking age of nineteen, against Alistaire none the less. Even back then you made our confrontation about you, though you had nothing to do with it. You implored Alistaire to employ dubious means to get it done, with that precious ‘fatherly’ advice. All because of YOUR bullshit issues with my family. And that’s why you openly refuse to accept me as who I am. YOUR World Champion Adam. Go on, it won’t hurt you… say the words chief. YOUR World Champion who had a TRUE redemption story and owned every single bad thing I did. See me as the ‘kid’ if it helps you to sleep at night. Belittle me at every opportunity, if you believe for one second that anyone is buying your bullshit.
But seeing as the truth is revealing itself, how’s about I throw another in your direction? The truth that at, at twenty-three years old, am more of a man than you will EVER be and am doing things that right now in your advancing years, you cannot even contemplate. You used to have your wrestling ability to hold over me Adam, but I’ve even closed that gap, to the point that many in our industry, people that know their stuff, regard YOU as the underdog. And Adam Allocco, I know full well that has to be eating you alive. Thing is, if the guilt of destroying your son’s life didn’t take you down, your failing career most certainly won’t. You’ll still be around regardless, like the bad smell that you have become. You hate the fact that I beat Xander, and you couldn’t. And because of that, Xander told me the truth. Best thing for us all would be for you to go away… but you won’t. I’m not naïve enough to think that. But you sure as hell ain’t leaving Dallas with anything but the clothes that you came with. There will be no addition to your weight allowance to worry about when you step on the flight home.”
A young boy nervously walks up to Owen, catching his eye. Owen motions for him to come over, the kid holding out a Retribution program
Kid: Could you sign this for me?
Owen: No worries, what’s your name little man?
Kid: Brody
Owen: OK…
He signs it, with a special message, before passing it back.
Owen: You got tickets for tomorrow?
The kid, obviously nervous nods his head, as his parents walk up behind him.
Owen: Can I count on you giving me a massive cheer when I wrestle Adam?
Again, Brody nods, Owen reaching out and ruffling his hair. He then takes off his cap.
Owen: Can I borrow that pen again Brody?
He looks who at his parents who nod, Brody passes the pen across, Owen signing the rim of the cap, and then placing it on the boy’s head.
Owen: Wear that, and if I can see you when I win, I’ll give you a wave yeah?
Brody nods, the Father taking his hand.
Owen: See you around Brody
The kids turn around and gives Owen a wave, Owen then turning back to the camera with a smile on his face.
"See Adam that is what being a ‘whiny little kid’, in your opinion gives you. It gives you respect from people, who even though I have made a multitude of mistakes in my life, can still come up to me because I am accessible. Can you imagine that kid walking up to you? Can you imagine his parents letting him come anywhere near you? You couldn’t look after your own son… who going to trust you with the most precious thing in their lives. That’s why you hate me Adam, not just because I'm Orlando’s son, or Shaun’s nephew, but because I am everything that I say I am, with literally no heirs and graces. What I did over the course of this last year IS impressive, there is no question about it, and it quite literally eats you alive, me being nothing like the picture that you try to paint, every single time we find ourselves on opposite sides of the ring. It gives you this overriding obsession with me. An absolute desperation to beat me and put me in my place. Oh, I know Adam, beating me, A Cruze, means almost as much as claiming the World Championship. And seeing as you think so little of me, that’s kind of pathetic… don’t you think? But honestly, with everything I have learned of late, everything I know of you from the past, I cannot think of a better word to sum you up. Pathetic… that’s exactly what you are. And ultimately Adam, it’s coming into this match, one of the most important of your career, with that desperation hanging over you, which is going to cost you. There is no question that you are one of the most talented wrestlers on this roster, but honestly, I HAVE to question whether you really want this enough. We’ve seen it, so many times, how you get yourself out of dodge when things start going against you. We’ve seen how you folded under the onslaught of Xander Valentine… though I guess we know the reason for that know. I hope you’ve looked back through my matches, and not let your hubris blind you. I’ve getting a habit of only needing one opportunity to put my opponents away, and the way you are being right now, that one opportunity presenting itself is inevitable. I’m prepared for this match Adam with my eyes wide open. Yours, are firmly pressed shut. THAT is why I win at Retribution Adam, because you don’t know me. You’ve never known me, or my family. Unfortunately for you, that obsession is one you will have to take to your grave. An itch, you will NEVER get to scratch.”
Owen gets to his feet, putting his hood back up and stepping forwards, walking to the bottom of the steps.
“And so, and I bring this promo to a close, I hope that the information that you sorely needed has started to seep through and into your brain. That being that taking this World Championship away from me is far from a foregone conclusion. What you need to do before Retribution is separate what you think about the Cruze name, away from my abilities as a wrestler, and then at least you will have a starting point from which you don’t, by your own actions, give yourself LESS of a chance of victory, while improving my chances. Thing is Adam, I shouldn’t be telling you this. I shouldn’t be the one who needs to educate you on the way this business works. The things you have done for this industry, both inside the ring and behind a desk, it’s deserving mention, and you deserve credit. But it seems that even with that experience, you STILL allow yourself to be blinded by your arrogance, and don’t see your situation for what it is. I’m come too far for you to be the one to derail me. I still need this title reign to be one that is remembered. I’ve beaten Xander Valentine, I’ve beaten the Hairless Penguin, and I’ve beaten Kimberley Williams. But yours will arguably be the most prestigious name should I add you to that list. And the more I think about it Adam, then the more I believe that to be a reality. Everything is pointing towards another successful title defense. And should I achieve that Adam, it will be time for you to put all this to bed. Time for you to drop the hatred and concentrate on REALLY fixing the damage you have done. Because believe it or not Adam, it’s never been all about you, and right now, there is something much more important than playing a game it’s getting more and more difficult to win. You’re one of the best ever, but I’m faster than you, I’m as technically proficient, and right now I’m stronger than ever and truthfully Adam, I believe I’m better. You lose, and I’m afraid it’s time for you to draw the same conclusions. But of course, you won’t, because you are the ’great’ Adam Allocco, a man to whom no one else can compare…”
Owen salutes the camera, following it up with a wink.
“I just wonder when that name stopped being a gift… and instead became a curse. I’ll be seeing you in that ring real soon Adam… and I’ll be leaving it, STILL SCW World Champion.”
Owen walks away from the camera, and away from the arena, as the scene slowly fades.
![[Image: 270041540-258425806375597-7033161467703002046-n.png]](https://i.ibb.co/8sQWMPt/270041540-258425806375597-7033161467703002046-n.png)