Hairless Penguin vs. Owen Cruze

[Owen]

+++ New York – 20th December 2022 +++

 

Owen had spent a good few days in New York, catching up with old friends whilst still maintaining his fitness, knowing what soon he would know his opponent in the End of Year special, an opponent chosen by the fans. If he was honest with himself, he’d not even given Miami any thought, and as he probably now wouldn’t go back until after the New Year Special. And anyway, staying out of the way meant that he couldn’t put his foot in it and reveal Charlotte’s secret. There was no question that he felt guilty for lying to the Police, and he understood that if they were ever found out, he would no doubt be in a lot of trouble. But although it felt like a character flaw right now, he pacified himself by focusing on the fact he was helping his friend, in whatever why he could. Even more so as he’d not picked up on her struggles in order to help her never get into this situation in the first place. But his time in New York was ending, and this evening he would be flying to Los Angeles for the holidays, Jennifer and him spending it with their nearest and dearest. Jennifer was already in LA, but Owen had time for one last goodbye to the staff, students and residents of Level Up. Having spoken with several students and residents, he was now mulling around the ring. Jason, Willow, Finch and Chloe all nearby.

 

Owen: So, Jason, what you and Willow doing for the holidays?

 

Jason: Just a quiet one I reckon… getting too old for anything else.

 

Willow: Speak for yourself.

 

Owen: Never change Willow

 

Willow: I have no intention of doing so.

 

Jason: And let’s face it, I don’t want her too.

 

Owen turns to Finch and Chloe who are engaged in their own conversation.

 

Owen: And what about you guys?

 

Chloe: Going home for Christmas Day, back here on the 26th.

 

Finch: I’m staying… which has not impressed my Mom, but someone has to take care of the place right. Reed and I might be going out, dude wants to say thanks.

 

Owen: Cool, well make sure you all have a good one and come back raring to go. Big plans for 2023 and need you all on top of your game.

 

Jason: When am I anything…

 

The door to Level Up bursts open, and a guy Owen doesn’t recognize comes storming over. It doesn’t take Owen long to realize he is making a beeline for Landon, who Owen had only introduced himself to ten minutes earlier. As Eric Morris nearly reaches Landon, Finch instinctively steps in front of him.

 

Finch: Does there seem to be a problem Sir?

 

Eric: Yes, you are keeping my son captive in this place.

 

Finch: I assure you; Landon is here of his own free will. If you would like to step into the office, perhaps we can chat.

 

Landon: Dad, leave it.

 

Eric looks at Finch with real indignation, totally ignoring his son.

 

Eric: I’m not here to talk, I’m only here to take my son home.

 

Finch: But according to Landon, he doesn’t want to come home so…

 

Eric has had enough and tries to push past Finch who stands his ground.

 

Eric: If you know what is good for you, you’ll get out my way.

 

Finch still doesn’t flinch, but he is nothing like Eric’s size, and the much bigger man pushes Finch to the ground, before grabbing Landon by the arm and dragging him away. Owen is about to make a move, but Jason is closer, and he grabs Landon’s jacket, Eric trying to push Jason in the same way he did Finch. Jason is a must different proposition however, and on pure instinct he swings an arm, punching Eric on the side of the jaw, Morris dropping to the floor.

 

Owen: JASON!!

 

Landon helps his Father up, but Eric shrugs him off, his face reddened, partly from the blow but mostly from embarrassment. He turns to Jason, who now has a hand on his chest from Owen, stopping him from doing further damage. Eric points directly at Jason, a look of pure fury on his face.

 

Eric: You’re going to regret that.

 

Jason: I don’t think so

 

Eric: Do you know who I am?

 

Jason: An asshole?

 

Eric: Ah, cocky huh? Let’s she how cocky you are when the cops come and arrest you. One call…

 

Jason: Do you need the number?

 

Eric: No, I have a direct line to the chief… you don’t realize how much trouble you’re in son.

 

Jason doesn’t respond again, Owen more than thankful for that.

 

Eric: Landon. Come on.

 

Owen watches as Landon and his Father leave the school, before then turning to Jason.

 

Jason: What? He was asking for it.

 

Owen: Maybe, but you just struck someone’s Father, someone who has real pull in this city and could really damage the reputation of this place.

 

Willow: He won’t do anything; he was only bluffing.

 

Finch gets to his feet, a little shaken up by the altercation.

 

Finch: Damn, he was an asshole.

 

Jason: You OK man?

 

Finch: Yeah, I will be, thanks for stepping in bro.

 

Jason: My pleasure… though it seems like the boss doesn’t think so.

 

Owen: I get it Jason, the guys a douche, no question about it. But that reaction is exactly what we are trying to teach these kids how to avoid. Everything doesn’t always need resolving by throwing fists.

 

Jason: Yeah? Well maybe next time I’ll let someone kick the shit out of your mate, and then drag a kid out of here forcibly.

 

Jason doesn’t entertain the conversation any further and rolls under the bottom rope to where some of the students have been watching on. Willow shrugs her shoulders at Owen, and then joins her husband, showing her thoughts on the matter.

 

Chloe: Jason did nothing wrong Owen

 

Finch: Gotta admit bro, he was only looking out for me.

 

Owen: I get that guys, truly I do.

 

Finch: Yeah? Well, it seems like in this instance you care more about the reputation, than what is right. Have a good flight Owen, see you in the New Year.

 

Finch walks away, leaving just Chloe with Owen, Owen with a stunned look on his face.

 

Chloe: You can’t blame them, Owen. I get what you are saying, but sometimes you gotta stand up for what’s right. Even to someone like him.

 

Owen looks towards the ring where Jason is already training his students, then at Finch walking towards the office, and then finally at Chloe, nodding his head. Chloe smiles, and throws her arms around him, giving him a kiss on his cheek.

 

Chloe: Have a good Christmas bro… love you.

 

Owen: Love you too.

 

Chloe heads off in the same direction as Finch, Owen heading towards the door, scanning the gym as he leaves. He catches the glance of Reed James, who nods an acknowledgement, Owen nodding back. With a final look around the gym, he heads out the door, which closes shut behind him.

 

+++ Los Angeles – 24th December 2022 +++

 

Although what had happened at Level Up remained on his mind for a while, by the time he touched down in LA it was at least for now forgotten, as he concentrated on the festivities that he would be spending with nearly all his immediate family. Jennifer’s family living in LA made it easier, but then the fact that both Kloe and Taylor were there too made it the perfect place to be, as well as Shaun and Angyalka. It could have been a rush to get around everyone, but Owen had managed to get in some last-minute shopping for his wife-to-be, someone whom he wanted to spoil every single day, even if he told he not to. He had to admit though that he was glad to get away from the last-minute shoppers and being able to sit down with Shaun with a beer.

 

Shaun: So, you ready for Christmas then? I can imagine everything has been a bit of a blur over the past month.

 

Owen: It’s been interesting that’s for sure.

 

Shaun: And becoming World Champion again… I’m guessing folk are saying it’s because of me?

 

Owen: Of course… anything but to accept the fact I achieved something. Sometimes wonder what it would take for people to realize I’m the real deal, it’s not like everyone pins Xander Valentine is it?

 

Shaun: Good luck with that. It’s something that comes unfortunately with the Cruze name, and it doesn’t even stop when you’re retired. Keep doing your thing, care only about those that matter and you’ll be fine. Oh, and get that first title defense in the bag, because that’s not something you need to be carrying into 2023. People know how good you are Owen; they’re just not grown up enough to admit it. You’ve come a million miles away from where you were at the last End of year Special. Just think, last year you were starting again with a match against Drake Hemingway, and this year you’re defending the most prestigious title in professional wrestling. That’s something to be proud of Owen.

 

Owen: I know… and I am. I just don’t want to get a reputation like Dad did, able to win the title but not then run with it.

 

Shaun: Owen, you’ve won the World title twice at the age of twenty-two. You can do things in that ring that Orlando and I could only dream of. Look how you took Xander down, what the hell was that? But seriously, this is my point. You put enough pressure on yourself without buying into the opinions of others. Continue doing you, and you’ll be fine. I do have to admit though, I’m still intrigued as to what Olek was up to, testing you how he did. I don’t know, maybe it was just to prove that you were indeed the real deal.

 

Owen: I guess one day we might find out.

 

Owen lifts the bottle of beer, Shaun doing the same before both take a sip.

 

Shaun: So, how’s Level Up coming along?

 

Owen: It’s doing great… got some real talent there. Got a real feeling about a few of them… especially Reed. Might not make it as a wrestler, but Jason says he’s got a real feel of MMA.

 

Shaun: So that’s the plan then… branch out in all combat sports?

 

Owen: Exactly, by the time we are through we’ll have multiple classes run by multiple trainers.

 

Shaun: And let me guess, in states all over America

 

Owen: To begin with… sure. But that’s going to take investment, and I don’t want to walk before I can run.

 

Shaun: Well Owen, I might be interested, and I know Blake is always looking out for opportunities.

 

Owen: I might hold you both to that.

 

Shaun: Please, think of me if you do expand. It’s a solid idea…

 

Owen: Amy did it first.

 

Shaun: Sure… and it’s good that you recognize that. It’s that kind of humility that makes you good at running a place like that.

 

Owen: I don’t really, Finch…

 

Shaun holds up his hand, stopping Owen in his tracks.

 

Shaun: Owen, just stop, you need to stop dumbing this down. OK, Amy gave you the idea, but you built your own, in its own vision, and that should be applauded. And I’m telling you now that Amy would be saying the exact same thing. I say it again, your twenty-two years old. Most people your age is out chasing skirt and getting drunk every night. You’ve already sold a successful business, are now running another, and you have a successful professional wrestling career. Orlando didn’t do that to this extent. I didn’t do that till I was in my thirties. But you’re doing it at TWENTY-TWO years old. Start embracing that Owen and start taking pride in it.

 

Shaun takes another sip of the drink

 

Shaun: Rant over.

 

Shaun lifts the bottle up again, and the two clink the bottles together, Owen with a smirk on his face.

 

Owen: So, did you speak with Pixie? Or have you been too obsessed with my life and what I do and don’t take pride in.

 

Shaun: World Champion or not sunshine, I’ll still kick your ass.

 

Owen: You can try.

 

Shaun rolls his eyes but continues regardless.

 

Shaun: She obviously was a little upset, I had to show her the facts, and what Chris Clay had found out about Mr. Comer. But once she got her head around it, and her inner bitch floated to the surface, she was just angry, and ready to make him pay. So, she withdrew her investment, which thankfully she’d not released the funds when I spoke with her. Then she called him up and finished the relationship on the spot.

 

Owen: And I’m guessing he kicked off like the angry little man that he is?

 

Shaun: Apparently, she didn’t give him chance. Hung up the phone before he had chance to react. I’ve got a feeling we won’t be hearing from him again now that Pixie has put him in his place. She might look cute, if there is one attribute, she got from her Dad it was her ruthlessness. You cross her, and you’ll suffer. Pixie says thank you by the way… things would have been a lot worse if you’d not had the foresight to get Chris involved. Hopefully she’ll find someone special soon, because she deserves it.

 

Even though Pixie and Shaun had divorced a long time ago, thanks to her infidelity, Shaun still cared a great deal for her, so much so her and Angyalka were firm friends.

 

Owen: Are you seeing the kids?

 

Shaun: Yeah, Pixie is bringing them over tomorrow and we are spending Christmas together.

 

Owen: You’re a lucky guy… able to have them all under one roof.

 

Shaun: I’m lucky that Angyalka is so understanding. Family is everything to me, more than the money, or the fame or any of that stuff. And I got a feeling that you understand that too.

 

Owen: I do.

 

Shaun: Good, then you won’t go far…

 

Shaun stops, interrupted by the sound of a car alarm going off, an alarm that Shaun recognizes has his. He immediately jumps to his feet, Owen doing the same as Shaun grabs his keys. He opens the door, and looks left and right, seeing nothing, before using the key to kill the alarm, before then walking to the front of the car, the front windscreen totally shattered.

 

Shaun: What the fuck?

 

Angyalka comes outside, and seeing the damage brings her hands to her face in shock. Owen opening the car door and reaching onto the driver’s seat, bringing out a brick with what looks like a gift tag attached. He reads it, and then passes the brick to Shaun, his eyes widening as he sees the message.

 

‘Merry Christmas’

 

Scene fades.

 

+++ Toronto – 30th December 2022 +++

 

As the scene opens, Owen nods a greeting, acknowledging those taking the time to listen. He sits with his arm resting on the chair rest, his hand thoughtfully placed on his chin. He then leans forwards, clasping his hands in front of him as he starts to speak in his usual confident, yet considered tone.

 

“The End of Year special has held a lot of relevance for me over the years. This is the event where I won the annual Battle Royal, a match that announced myself to Supreme Championship Wrestling with my first major victory. Last year, it was the event where I made my return to competitive action after taking time out to get my life straight. Defeating Drake Hemingway in a match that would start, what would turn out to be one of the best years of my career. A defining year that ended with me finally finding the redemption I had sought, on my Dad’s birthday none the less. And this year, the end of year special will be no less important, as I attempt to do something that I have never done before. Successfully defend the SCW World Championship.”

 

Owen raises his eyes, recognizing the enormity of this match. For many, a title defense might just be a part of being champion, but for Owen it held much more significance that that.

 

“I’ve spoken at great length about my last World Championship reign, and how I failed at the first hurdle. I’ve spoken of the Elimination Chamber, and Under Attack, and how I was in no way ready for the responsibility, and indeed the difficult of walking into that Chamber and walking out Champion. This year, at that very same event, I conquered that Chamber where many thought I couldn’t. I went on to face Xander Valentine and defeated a monster that many thought unbeatable. But all of that, it now must be put firmly in the rearview mirror. There is only one thing that matters, and that is walking out of Toronto with that title strap still in my possession. I cannot be the guy who wins Championships and then doesn’t have the fortitude to have a successful run as Champion. I can’t let it become an albatross around my neck, in the way it did my father. See, a lot of people may not remember, or might not have even been born when my Father claimed his first three World Championships. In 1997, in the now defunct EFW, Dad beat Sickle for their version of the World Championship, only to lose it two weeks later to Desolation. Fast forward to the year 2000, Orlando Cruze versus Lethal Weapon for the ULW World Heavyweight Championship, Orlando wins, only to lose it to Johnny Kingdom on his first title defense. Only on his third attempt, taking it from the legendary Hurse in 2003 did he put a run together that lasted six months. Till that point people were claiming he was fine playing the role of hunter but struggled when it came to being the hunted.

 

I won’t let that be me.

 

I’m proud to be associated with the Icon. I’m honored to share that man’s name. But it took me four years to understand that this is MY legacy, not his. And certainly, when it comes to this aspect, I will do everything in my power to NOT follow his example. And throw everything at ensuring I move into 2023 still the SCW World Champion.

 

In conquering the Chamber, the scene of my demise, I have shown that I have grown into the consummate strategist, able to evolve and adapt not matter the circumstances thrown at me. In understanding my flaws, and doing something about them, I have shown that I am now mature enough to stand side by side with people that have decades more experience than I do and use their beliefs about me against them. In slaying an individual twice my size, and twice my strength, I have shown categorically that I can go toe to toe with literally anyone in this industry and understand what is required to take an individual down, buy focusing on my strengths. By winning the SCW Championship, I have proven that those that stayed with me were correct. That when I said that I WOULD have my redemption, I wasn’t going to stop at anything to achieve it. Now, it’s not about proving that I can become a champion, it’s about showing that I AM a champion. A champion that can have a long and successful reign that will still be spoken about when the End of Year Special 2023 comes around and the End of Year awards are handed out. It’s about being a Champion that the SCW fanbase can once again get behind and look forward to an exciting future. But more than anything, it’s about belonging. It’s about belonging in a company that I disrespected. After everything it had done for me. Yeah, I have my redemption, but there are still those that will believe I don’t belong. By my actions, by my reign, it’s about changing their minds. It’s all about that legacy. It’s all about doing something that can be remembered for all time.”

 

Owen leans back in his chair, bringing up his foot and resting it on his knee, his hands on his lap. He knew in the coming weeks, with opponents almost lining up to face him, he was going to get the opportunity to prove without question that the strap was over the shoulder of the right person and wouldn’t be going anywhere soon. But he also recognized, again without question, that it was going to be far from easy. Thing is, he now understood that anything worth doing, was never easy. Another sign of his newfound maturity. Another example of him being more than ready for this mantle.

 

“There are some that have asked me a question. How I felt when Glory Braddock clocked me with her unsanctioned Championship belt during my celebrations. I’m not doubt Glory is asking that same question, or at least that seemed to be the case on Breakdown. Well Glory, I’m not going to say it didn’t hurt. I’m not going to pretend it didn’t annoy me. But neither of those were my overriding emotions. No, what I felt when she did that was vindication. Validation I guess for what I was saying over six months ago about her.

 

When others believed she was the future.

 

This is THE Glory Braddock, the chameleon who suits herself to her surroundings, acting in whichever way she must so that she can claim these ‘successes’ that she believes he has earned by right. Glory Braddock has always blamed others when things haven’t been going right. Glory Braddock has always flip flopped from shiny example of what is good, to egotistical arrogant bitch whenever the weather has changed.

 

She ruined my celebration because of Shaun.

 

Seriously Glory, at the very least tell the truth. You did it, because of what I currently hold, and without a cheap shot like that you wouldn’t be anywhere near contention. I said it before, and I’ll say it again, you ruined my big moment. You took away the chance for me to share that moment with the fans. OK, that’s done now, so be it. But Glory, let me make ONE thing abundantly clear. I’m not that little kid that marveled at your achievements. I’m not someone who is overawed by you IN THE SLIGHTEST. What I am Glory, is someone with a receipt. For you, and anyone else who dares take the same stance you did. I got my dance card full for the next few weeks, but I make you a promise. I’ll reserve a spot especially for you, title or not. And if I still have it, you can be certain I will put that title on the line. Right now, though Glory, to me, and regardless of that other company you are Champion in, you are everything you fear.”

 

He pauses, his eyes narrowing ever so slightly, until a grin forms on his face.

 

“Irrelevant. I truly hope that changes soon and you do something worth talking about. Here, in Supreme Championship Wrestling. THE biggest company in the industry… bar NONE.”

 

Owen says that last sentence very matter of fact, before reaching off camera, and pulling the SCW World Championship into view. He holds it there for a few seconds, looking at it, before draping it on his lap in full view.

 

“And the reason for Glory Braddock being irrelevant right now, is the same reasoning as Kim, or anyone else who has their sights set on this title. That being that they, quite simply, are not next in line. They can go a ‘Glory’ and get in my face and post shit, or a ‘Kim’ and put out their feelings on social media in 250 words or less, but it doesn’t matter. The one relevance to me right now is you… Hairless Penguin.”

 

A wry smile forms on his face. Penguin was one of three nominees that he thought himself likely to be facing at the End of Year Special. So, when he had stepped through the curtain it was very much NOT a surprise. It was also a match that Owen knew would be the perfect ending to 2022. A match that would probably surpass the one they had not much more than a month ago. A match that if won, would solidify his reign as champion.

 

“Now, I know there are many people you have faced this year that would immediately point to our match a few weeks back and use that as evidence of their inevitable victory.

 

I am NOT that kind of person.

 

There are those that would point to Trios and use that as a further example that I have your number. I won’t be doing that either. It would be kind of stupid if I did do that, considering that in both those matches, there was nothing but a hairs breadth between us. I’m also not going to be one of those guys that claim you only got this shot because you are a fan favorite. You only must look back over your year and everything you have accomplished to understand why you are in this position with this opportunity.

 

Quite simply… you’ve earned it.

 

You’ve earned the chance to be able to walk out of Toronto with literally the biggest prize in our industry. You’ve worked your ass off, even in the face of some real mockery, for the chance to be able to call yourself the SCW World Champion. That’s why this Christmas time, I’ve found myself training like a demon, I’ve stayed away from the excesses, as much as possible anyways, and I’ve done everything I can to ensure I am in peak condition. Why? For all those reasons I’ve already mentioned. People see you; the ‘Hairless Penguin’ and they immediately tag you as some long running joke. You use that to your advantage, time and time again. I fell for that once, at Taking Hold of the Flame. Since then, I have always given you your due. This time, with the World Championship on the line, I assure you it will be no different. You’ll be respected for what you are.

 

The current Number One contender.

 

The World Champion in waiting.

 

MY challenger

 

Anything less, and I wouldn’t be the champion I believe myself to be. YOU are the reason I’m not focusing on Glory Braddock and her pointless assaults. YOU are the reason I pay no attention to those who wax lyrical that they made me tap out in front of the world at Rise to Greatness. Instead, I thank them for that lesson. YOU are the reason I would never feel the need to defend Shaun against all these baseless claims, even if I had to. Tell me bro, have you EVER had anyone as laser focused on you as I currently am? I’ll answer that for you… no you haven’t. NO ONE has given you the time of day as I will again at the End of Year Special. I do that because you ARE a threat to where I want to be. You ARE on the cusp of achieving a dream that many deemed impossible. But more than anything I remain focused because I am the World Champion, and it’s my duty. To represent this company in the best way I can. Something historically, I DID NOT do. My greatest regret.”

 

Owen lowers his head slightly but remains looking at the camera. He would never forget those moments, to ensure he never made the same mistake again.

 

“I’m a firm believer in learning from those mistakes bud, and that’s what allows us to grow. I’m not a fool Penguin, I know that without those mistakes, I wouldn’t be stood here today. My evolution is formed entirely from those moments in my life when I had almost given up. When I was going to throw all of this away. The roar of the crowd, the interaction with the fans, there was a time when that all meant nothing to me, just imagine that. But the moment that fire was relit, it wasn’t the same flame, it gathered into something much more. An inferno. Last time we faced, it was a mistake that cost you, just one. Like I said, I’m no fool, I know I’m not the only one who learns from their errors, it would be hypocritical for me to say that you couldn’t too. So, what do I have to do? I must be better. You won’t make the same mistakes, and so therefore I must force you to make others. That’s the thing though Penguin, I’m exactly the kind of guy forces those mistakes. I fight at a level, an intensity that doesn’t allow my opponent time to think. Imagine that bro, me openly admitting that I must be better. Better than the person that beat you previously. Better than the person who won the Chamber. Better than the person who toppled the giant Xander Valentine. Scary thought, isn’t it? The fact I could be faster, smarter. Thing is, that isn’t what’s scary, not really. The true scariness is that I CAN be better. I can be all those things. I know I have more improvement within me. I’m a two-time World Champion at 22 years old, not many can claim that with a straight face. And yet, I have more to give and more levels to reach. Tell me Penguin, with all due respect can you say the same? Or is this your ceiling? Without that same benefit of time on your side?”

 

He waits for mere seconds, allowing that question to hang in the air, before he continues.

 

“I’m not saying that so that I can fire off a witty retort. I’m not even going to pretend that I know the answer, because the truth is, I don’t. Only you know what you are truly capable of and if it will be enough. What I do know is it’s going to fun facing someone with that same hunger and desire as myself. It’s going to be a blast matching our skills once again. It’s going to be crazy, once again putting on a show to end the calendar year with a bang, in the same way that I started. It’s a privilege to have this job, this opportunity, this title. I’m proud that I will get to share that final stage of 2022, with YOU.”

 

Owen gets to his feet, placing the World title on his shoulder, turning his head to look at his name on the plate proudly. He then looks back towards the camera, the intensity in his voice changing just slightly

 

“And so, Penguin, to close, I’m going to level with you. I didn’t work so damn hard this year for it to be over in a heartbeat. I didn’t go through hell, and it WAS hell, to return to the scene of my biggest crime, putting things right, only to fall at the very first hurdle. I’ve nothing but respect for you and what you do, but if you think I fought hard to win this title, believe me when I say I will give everything I have to keep it. Not because I don’t think you deserve it.

 

You do.

 

But because ‘Born to do’, ‘Evolution’ and ‘Redemption’, it was all about bringing me to this point. A point when I genuinely believe that I am amongst the very best wrestlers in the world and can only get better. Can you be in that category too? Sure, you can, and this is your chance to prove it. But will you prove it? Perhaps. But if you do, I’m afraid you will have to prove it in defeat. You’ll have your moment one day bro, I’m certain of it.”

 

He salutes the camera

 

“But now isn’t your time my friend”

 

A smirk forms on his face.

 

“It’s mine.”

 

He winks, and walks out of shot, as the scene slowly fades.