Redemption 125: Night One Press Conference Thread

[Slaine Rodrick]

The following fighters must present their press conferences here. No real restrictions, write whatever you want, how long you want as long as it pertains to the match. Because of the large amount of fighters, they are separated by two tables. Those booked on the left are seated at the left PC table, and those booked on the right are seated at the right PC table. 

BAD ASS (c) vs. Chase Manni Bryant

Chris Andrew (c) vs. James Edwards

The Twin-Nisher vs. Sandy Makel

Sherry Diamond (c) vs. Giles Whitmor

Masaru Inoue vs. Fenix Shields

Jason Jackson (c) vs. Tony Tira

Jade Akana vs. Zola Star

Katsumi Hosiko vs. Conor Blackburn

PRESS CONFERENCES DUE BY JULY 21st @ 11:59 PM EST

[masondaniels]

[Jade Akana can be seen sitting down among a large group of other competitors for the first night of competition. It had been a long few days since Under the Coliseum Lights had happened, but now she was here and completely focused on the match that was ahead of her.]



Seth Black: Alright, moving onto the next match up of the night. It will be our very own Jade Akana going against the Free Agent Zola Star. So, if anyone has any questions pertaining to Jade, the floor is open.



[Jade grabs a hold of her microphone and sits back as she waits for the first question.]



Reporter 1: Jade, just a few days ago, your mentor and boyfriend Mason Daniels turned on you to protect a prior love interest in Crystal Starr. I have to ask, has that been a distraction going into this match?



Jade: Look, I don't give a damn about any of that. Yeah, Mason and I were a thing, but it wasn't anything special. I needed a mentor and some one who would show me the ropes and all he needed was a little of that good, sweet Asian kitty. I got training and he got sex, it was a good deal for the both of us. I don't give a damn about him or what he does. He is out and on his own and I am the one in charge of The Pulpit.



Reporter 1: So you're ready for this match then?



Jade: Absolutely; this isn't a distraction. My ultimate goal is to walk into the cage with my opponent and beat her senseless. Mason doing what he did hasn't changed that.



Reporter 2: Jade, this will be your first MMA style match up. You're a trained wrestler and not used to beating some one down with simply strikes. Do you feel that this puts you at a disadvantage?



Jade: No, it doesn't. You have to remember that since I began training for this industry, I have been training with Mason. He was a former Special Forces soldier and trained in hand to hand combat, which is essentially MMA for the most part. I am fairly well first in it and I have spent the past month training really hard in it. I feel I am more then ready to get in there and compete.



Reporter 3: And what about your opponent. She is a fierce competitor is going to look to bring the fight to you in this match up. How do you think you are going to handle her barage of hard hitting attacks?



Jade: Look, Zola may be a brawler and she may be hard hitting, but she isn't me. I am hands down the fiercest woman in all of Phoenix Wrestling. I am better then everyone here and I am definitely better then our champion. That is what I am setting out to prove here in The Iron Queen Tournament! Phoenix Wrestling is a company that is run by the female wrestlers here and that is going to continue. I didn't come here to just compete, I came here to win; and that is exactly what I am going to do. I am going to go down there and step into that cage and I am going to be the one bringing the fight to Zola. She isn't going to know what hit her and when I am done with her, the referee is going to have to be pulling me off of her lifeless body.



Reporter 3: So you don't think that Zola Star is going to be a threat in this match?



Jade: Is that a serious question?



[Jade stands to her feet and looks across to the other side of the stage and points at Zola.]



Jade: Look at her...really, look at her. You think that has a chance of beating me. She isn't anything. She is just a pretty face in the industry, just like most of these fake ass bitches. Well, after our match her face won't look so good; but at the end of it all, it will be my hand raised in victory. Not to say she may not get a lucky shot or two in, but she won't truly compete with me. You all know what type of woman I am and what I am capable of. She's as good as finished the second she steps into that cage with me.



Seth Black: Alright, that's enough questions for Jade. Time to move on to her opponent.



[Jade sits down and leans back in her chair. As the questions and answers from Zola Star begin to roll out, she tunes it all out and begins to focus on what's important, and that is the match.]

[The Collective]

Even though Seth Black was directing reporter traffic in this press conference, he forget they were doing this in Mexico. Home of outlaws and renegades. A rogue reporter stood up and was seemingly looking right at Zola. Tony snickered to himself over Jade’s big ego as Zola seemed primed for a question. Only for that question to go to the man sitting right next to her.

“Daniel Reese, MMAGods.com. I have a question for Tony Tira.”

Tony looked up with wonder, then a grin and a nod. He could always appreciate someone who went against authority. “Go for it Dan.”

Seth Black was looking at the reporter, ready to say something. But ultimately he backed down, letting the course of action take place as the reporter delivered his rogue question. “I’ll be honest, I’m not a pro wrestling fan but I have studied up on you. Can you tell us a little bit about your boxing background?”

Delight filled Tony’s bruised up face. “Of course. Former Golden Gloves Champ. Amateur record of fourteen and one. Was about to go pro but got sucked into my businesses. My point is, it’s been awhile since I’ve stepped in the ring with someone who can actually give me a striking match on the feet. But you better believe I get plenty of practice in the gym, and plenty of practice on these dummies who sign a contract to face me in Phoenix. I know Jason is over there rolling his fuckin’ eyes at me, but I’ll tell this big Samoan fuck I'm the real deal. I still got the power to put you on your ass.”

“OOOOHH”s filled the auditorium as Tony looked right at Jason for a few seconds. He then turned his attention back to the reporter.

“Oookay. That leads to my next question. What is your strategy heading into a striking match with one of the most dangerous champions in MMA?”

He knew this question would come. Tony gave a bitter smirk and answered. “I gotta get in the phone booth with this kid and keep the pressure on him. Jason is his best when he can catch you at range with those long legs of his. I don’t plan on giving this motherfucker an inch. I know he’s got some damn good boxing too, so I hope he can take a night off from being karate kid and give these fans some fists. If not, I’m prepared to block those kicks and punch him in his mouth.”

“Alright. And my final question is you have received a fair amount of damage recently. Do you think that will come into play when you fight Jason?”

A quick look up, then a head shake. “Nah. I’m used to fightin’ with a couple lumps. I’m sure he is too. Just the nature of the game. There’s not a warrior out there that doesn’t have some sort of injury. Just gotta fight through it and man up. Time off will come when it comes. Otherwise I’m gonna keep my name hot and make some money. I’m sure this big lug is gonna bust my face open again. I’m sure I’m gonna bleed, it’s gonna happen. But that’s not gonna stop me from going in there and giving Jason a stand up fight like no other.”

“Thank you for your time.”

The reporter sat down, and was quickly replaced by a very dark Hispanic man with a giant bushy mustache. “My name is Jorge Valenzuela. I work for Lucha Libre Library. Sorry English not great, I try. There is rumor you make your stable fight, but they no want fight. What you say?”

“I’d say that’s true. I want my boys to show off how tough they are. We got a reputation to keep around here, and that is that we’re legit bad asses. Backing out of fights is a way to not look like that. So yeah, I made those two suck it up and train their asses off.”

“Okay. You are one of good strikers in wrestling. I like your uppercut. What you finish fight with?”

A laugh from Tony and a thumbs up. “Thanks brotha. I’m gonna try to finish the fight any way I can. Jason Jackson is dangerous. I won’t lie, most dangerous match of my career in a field I usually have an advantage in. But I’m going to pop my mouthguard in, keep my chin tucked, and barrel right through him. I wanna feel that big fucker’s punches, and I want him to feel mine. He can think this is gonna be an easy night.” Tony looked across the tables to Jason. “It ain’t.”

The reporter broke the staredown with his final question. “I look at odds for the fight. Odds not good for you. What you say?”

“I’d say that the people booking those odds don’t watch pro wrestling and don’t know who I am. I love that CGFC is taking part in Iron King this year, because finally wrestlers get to show just how fucking tough they are against the supposed toughest on the planet. I’m not much of a wrestler personally, but I live their lifestyle. I understand the pain and bullshit they go through. It takes a real tough person to be a pro wrestler. These bookers, these fans, shit the whole mainstream press can underrate me for all I care. I’m walking into that ring and putting these two fists on Jason’s chin. Over and over again until he falls.”

That staredown returned, and the reporter took his cue to sit down. “Gracias.”

No acknowledgement from Tony as he flexed his hands out in Jason's direction with an ice cold glare.

[turdferguson]

The cameras cut over to the right press conference table where the massive frame of Conor Blackburn is seated in a chair. Despite the crowded setting, he's managed to create a decent amount of distance between himself and the other competitors. He's dressed sharply in a custom suit with his long hair tied back, and the expression on his visage is incredibly nonplussed. After it's announced that Mr. Blackburn will be taking questions, a skinny bespectacled reporter with a thin beard and brown hair speaks first.

Reporter #1: Hi Conor, Jordan Strauss from Wrestling Weekly here--

Unblinking, Conor cuts him off.

Conor Blackburn: I don't recall us being on a first name basis, Mr. Blackburn please, thank you.

That seems to catch him a bit off guard but he recovers.

Jordan Strauss: -- Apologies Mr. Blackburn. This is the first time you've been back under a Phoenix Wrestling banner for a long time. You just returned to the ring as part of HKW Underground of course, so what was the decision making like in deciding to appear on a PW Redemption again? People see you as a pretty principled person who doesn't really change his mind on things, so it was quite surprising to people. And what were the factors in wanting to participate here?

Unblinking, Blackburn drums his fingers against the table before adjusting the microphone stand and answering.

Conor Blackburn: I'm aware it was a surprise to people; that's something I acknowledged on my social media. Here's the thing, there's a lot of different issues packed into one there. What I'll start with is saying this: I do not forget my past feelings and opinions. Nothing has changed regarding how I feel about my departure from this company a few years ago. That being said, I do not let those dealings impact my plans for myself. I very much believe I am in control of my own destiny, and that's what I make my decisions based off of.

He clears his throat.

Conor Blackburn: I saw no reason to appear for Phoenix in the past few years, the opportunities I chose to pursue were more worthwhile to me. Now, I do so a reason, it's as simple as that. The Iron King Tournament has always been an appealing concept, one that I did not participate in back in 2014. When the promotion returned and held another tournament the last time, I had other interests I was focusing my energy on. Which brings me to my next talking point.

Conor stretches his long arms above his head, then returns them to his side.

Conor Blackburn: People seemed to have this mistaken opinion that I was retired for some reason, even though I was still in my athletic prime. The fact is that it was becoming difficult to find willing opponents after I racked up victory, after victory. So I pursued new interests, new challenges, I'm someone that needs to be stimulated. Now that my schedule permits, I've decided to enter Iron King to test my mettle. I fully believe that I am as proficient and dangerous a combat sports athlete as there is on the planet, so it's time to put that to the test, simple as that.

A heavier set blonde reporter raises his hand.

Reporter #2: Mr. Blackburn, Sam Stevens from DailyTKO.com here. You used the term 'combat sports athlete' as an all encompassing thing there from what it sounded like. What do you think of the whole MMA vs Wrestling aspect of this tournament?

He shrugs his broad shoulders.

Conor Blackburn: I'm not particularly worried about that, I'm worried about how I match up and how I perform. They're both combat sports, with different rules and factors to take into account obviously, but one isn't inherently better than the other. There are a lot more bad wrestlers out there, because there's a lot more wrestling promotions. But there's people who can't fight in both sports, there's well-rounded people in both sports, there's limited people in both sports, you name it.

Pausing, he cracks his neck.

Conor Blackburn: Anyone who has trained with me knows that I do not approach it as 'oh, I need to just learn this wrestling stuff to be the best at wrestling'.

Air quotes.

Conor Blackburn: Obviously there are aspects specific to wrestling you have to train for, but the gameplan is always to impose my will and win a fight. So I study all the disciplines I can, I train all the disciplines I can, I find and try techniques to see if they can add to my game. Not necessarily to add things for the sake of it, but actually supplement my performance. With all due respect, I was preparing and I was helping people prepare with a nuanced mindset more associated with MMA before Caged Glory and some of these camps in that promotion even existed. That is not bragging, or measuring against anything, it's just a fact.

He scans the room before pointing out a red-haired female reporter.

Reporter #3: Hi, Christine Caccia here from Combat Zone, what are your thoughts on your opponent for this round, Katsumi Hoshiko, how you match up with him, what kind of threat he brings to the table and the striking only rules?

After a very brief moment to think, Blackburn clears his throat.

Conor Blackburn: Well, it's a good rule for him, since he is a striker by trade. He's a very wiry fighter, solid pop in his hands, likes to go for unconventional high risk attacks like flying knees and spin kicks, standing elbows from strange angles. Can blitz with pretty good boxing combos, but is more of a karate guy, so that's more of a single strike kicking game. I'd say he's got some danger he presents, he's fast and explosive, and has a diverse striking attack but not many layers as a striker.

He explains further.

Conor Blackburn: His game is pretty wild and unstructured, you might catch a surprise just by him throwing something unpredictable out there, but he's not really someone that plays with rhythm or timing that well-- I don't think his feints are particularly great. He's gotten some knockouts and of course is a karate black belt, but I think a lot of his success standing in MMA has either been being able to overwhelm subpar athletes, or people who don't have great stand up themselves. The guy doesn't strike me as particularly well-coached-- his response when the fight isn't going well is usually to get dirty and throw groin strikes, or look for some kind of instinctive strike rather than making any real adjustments-- which isn't surprising since the Japanese MMA scene has kind of lagged behind the past decade or so.

You don't see the amount of superstars coming out of there that you did in the PRIDE days. I'm also thinking he's starting to decline a bit and maybe get somewhat chinny after all the back and forth wars he's been in. He started off 12-4 as a pro, but is 1-5 in his last six fights. Now, I realize some of those losses were by submission, but he did recently suffer a brutal knockout loss by flying knee that goes back to what I was saying about his decline. It looks like his instincts and reactions have slowed down a tiny bit.

A pause to let the assembled masses catch up.

Conor Blackburn: I'm in a good position where I can out-fight at range a little better than him due to my reach, and obviously I'll have more pop in my hands. That's not saying it's the range I will fight at, I'm not giving away my gameplan, but it does seem pretty viable. A wild fighter like him, you can keep him on the end of your jab if you know how to use it, double it up when needed, switch between a heavy and snap jab. My kicks should be there from outside if I want to use them. Body kicks and leg kicks are things I can fire off without worrying about the takedown with this being striking rules, just need to keep my hands up and watch out for the overhand counters when I throw them. It's a bit more effective when I can threaten a takedown, but I have also worked on some good clinch strikes, framing so I can use knees and elbows when it gets inside.

He scratches his chin.

Conor Blackburn: Hand position is going to be important there so I don't get caught with anything sneaky, and I'll need to mind myself not to get caught stuck in mid-range since he will have a speed advantage, but I'm exceedingly confident heading into this matchup. I should be able to outclass him, even if he is the 'credentialed striker' as long as I mind my Ps and Qs, but I'll be looking for the finish. It won't be anything I force, but judges in striking contests aren't really known for their consistency and can miss what strikes are landing cleaner if your back is blocking the action. Hoshiko is a worthy test of my striking skills, but as long as I perform to my abilities, I should be able to dictate the range, pace and terms of the fight, get him to fight how I want to and dust him once my class starts to take over-- thank you.

Conor concluded his remarks, clearly focused on his fight, but not even seeming to pay attention to the fact his opponent was in the room with him.

[The Fin and Twin Connection!]

Every one look around they cannot find Twin he is not at press con people say where Twin ? No one reply Seth Black say has any one seen Twin ? They say no then they hear Ur The Best play and they see Twin-Nisher being carried out on stage by eight body builder women one of them has a boombox as a necklace they set down his golden thrown and he gets off and crack open a beer drinks it like sandman and spit it in air he then go take his seat at press conference table and one guy in crowd already want to question

Reporter: Hey Twin you good fighter dont you think you should take snady seriously

Twin nods and he wears terminator shades

Twin: I take sandy seriously so much I pay for eight body builder women to carry me to press conference i make big time entrance because sandy makel big time opponent i never forget matches he had in pw in tfwf in scw all over the world the guy is huge mega star and after i fight him i get his autograph and put it on my celebrity mantel he is legend but i will knock him out and buy him beer ! Then get his autograph and a picture and we can hang out and shoot fireworks and drink vodka it would be good time

That reporter sit down another stand up

Reporter: Twin you are world class kickboxer how you train for sandy ?

Twin: I do what I do best and thats kick I kick all the time man I train kick a lot sandy gonna feel hard kicks and hard punches i am serious threat ! people will see this in iron king and know my name

that reporter sit down another stand up

Reporter: Sandy has been training to do you think he ready ?

Twin: He tough guy but I am world champion kickboxer this is striking match i have advantage he would kick my ass in wrestling match but this my type of fight

Reporter sit down and Twin sit back hands behind head he did good press

[BAD ASS]

(As the parade of buff chicks shuffled a throne past him, BAD ASS sat there in a headphone haze. His heavy chin rested upon his bridged knuckles as he head banged lightly to, yup, you guessed it, Headstrong. It wasn’t until he was shoulder nudged by Chris Andrew that he realized he would be one of the first to receive questions. After all he is the new CGFC Divine Champion. The press salivate over new top tier champions. His championship lay neatly folded in front of him, face plate out so he could blind his underwear model opponent on the other side. With a light tug on the white cord, he yanked out his ear buds then took off his hood. He turned his attention to the crowd to see a gangly tall Hispanic man waving at him with a big smile.)

Reporter: HEY!!

(The slightest amount of a smirk crept up on BAD ASS’s face, accompanied with a nod of the same amount of energy. He leaned into the mic and spoke.)

BAD ASS: Hey buddy. Look, I’m sure you got questions. Everybody always has questions for me. But I want to start out first by asking a question. And not to you.

(He turned in the direction of Seth Black at his podium and pointed.)

BAD ASS: I got a question for that hipster grandpa over there in the three piece suit. Seth Black….what the fuck?!

(Black looked genuinely confused by his approach.)

Black: What do you mean?

BAD ASS: You know what the fuck I mean. Even back when I was competing in wrestling, THIS MATCH would be an insult to me. Here I am, a World Champion in MMA, putting over your goddamn tournament, and the thanks I get is this bitch ass underwear model on the other side of the ring?

(He stuttered, starting to say something but BAD ASS cut him off before he could finish.)

BAD ASS: I thought we WERE BROS, BRO. EMPIRE for life. Ramirez and I never turned our back on it. Supposedly neither did you. I guess I was wrong.

(The sweat started to percolate on Seth Black’s forehead as he tried to formulate the right response.)

Black: Lo-look BAD ASS, I didn’t mean to disrespect you. I watched your fight with Cass Madrigal, and it was a war! I didn’t want to book you in such a hard fight after that because like a real friend BA, I’m concerned for your safety. Chase isn’t top tier prospect, but he’s still a young gun who would love to bank on your name.

BAD ASS: You know I was just fucking with you right?

(BAD ASS started laughing, and was soon joined by Seth who left his podium and gave BA a knuckle butt. As soon as Seth went on his way back the smile dropped and BA pointed to the reporter.)

BAD ASS: YOU!! Questions?

(Anxiety is all over the reporter’s face as he chuckled and took a deep breath.)

Reporter: Yes I have questions amigo! My first question is what does it feel like to be a World Champion in MMA and Pro Wrestling and be under 30?

(He couldn’t help but give a cocky smile to the ass kissing.)

BAD ASS: It feels amazing. I’m now part of a very small group out there to ever hold that distinction. All it does for me is solidifies that when I set my mind to something, I accomplish it, no questions asked. I could be like my homey Jason down the table. Retire and easily be fulfilled. Yet here I am in the Iron King Tournament with something to prove. You ask some of the biggest names in the industry why they chose Iron King when they already had a full docket. When they already have been to the top of the mountain and back. What did they say? They said pretty much because it seemed like something cool to do. I gotta agree with that sentiment.

Reporter: That brings me to my next question. What is your opinion of your opponent Chase Manni?

(Quickly he dropped his head to the table with a chuckle, then looked up with a grin.)

BAD ASS: I know it seemed like I was joking around earlier about Chase. I wasn’t. This boy does not belong in professional wrestling. He does not belong in MMA. He does not belong in anything athletic that involves getting hit. But beyond that, he does not belong in front of me in the opening contest. He belongs on Twitter, hyping up his modeling career. Something he entirely cares about as if you can actually stomach to scroll his timeline he doesn’t mention wrestling AT ALL. It’s literally him just saying stupid shit then posting pictures of himself because he’s a vain little cunt. If he wants to model, that’s fine, I’m completely supportive of his right to model. It’s a good paying job that can sometimes lead down the hard road to being an alcoholic coke whore. But something tells me Chick Tammi wouldn’t mind that. I mean look at the guy’s frame. He’s emaciated. Now I know that models are often required to starve themselves, but for CHRIST’S SAKE you’re a professional wrestler. People are going to cave in that bony xylophone chest of yours. People are going to lock those scarecrow twig arms in armbars and snap them. It doesn’t matter how fast you are kid, you will get broken eventually. Somehow, someway you found yourself into the big time. The only way I can gather you actually got signed to PW is you did some flippy flip bullshit in a highlight reel, put One Republic as the tune, and sent that shit to Slaine’s office. He loves flippy flip shit and One Republic, and you seem like that type of guy.

(BAD ASS took a moment to take a drink of water. As he did so he held a finger up to the reporter, taking his sweet ass time to drink the water before setting it down softly.)

BAD ASS: AHHH. Why do people feel the need to do that shit after drinking? Anyways that’s the only way I could see a Pol Pot death camp survivor like Check Matey signed to a PW contract. I watched his match with Fenix Shields at UTCL.

(Double thumbs down and a fart noise.)

BAD ASS: I can’t believe that shit started off the biggest show of the year. That little bitch boy couldn’t last over seven minutes with one of Chris Shields’s interracial brothers. That’s pathetic. It’s a good thing the match was kept short, because no one wants to remember a dumpster fire match like that. All this mutt crack fiend has done in his career in PW is lose. And he’s gonna lose again when he faces off against me. But not like the other times. No. I won’t allow Chester Cheetah to have more than a minute with me. I’m not going to toy with my opposition just to draw out the clock. The fans don’t want to see that, and I don’t want to see that. Would I have preferred someone who could’ve tested me on the feet? You betcha. But if I gotta squash this curtain jerker, I might as well make it as exciting as possible. That’s what I do after all. That kid can try to run from me, but I will catch him, and I will batter him into unconsciousness. I’ll give him credit, he’s fast. Fast enough to run from me though? Nope. He’s going to get exterminated in record time. He seemed not at all interested in his fate, so I had to hit up this little bitch on his hangout Twitter and let him know what’s coming to him. He knows he’s gonna get knocked out. Now the real kicker is if Campbell Canny even shows up. If he no shows, then what?

(The reporter thought BAD ASS was asking him and went to answer.)

Reporter: Well then he…

BAD ASS: Dude I’m still talking! It was a rhetorical question! Wait your turn!

Reporter: Sorry.

BAD ASS: ANYWAYS, if Chase Manhattan no shows, then what? Do I get a bye? Do they throw some local talent my way? Does someone get double booked? Now those are all serious questions. Seth Black, you can answer them.

Black: You would get a bye.

(Faux excitement displayed on BAD ASS’s face.)

BAD ASS: I would get a bye! So either way I get a night off! So Cheese Fanny you can show up to the fight. You can no show the fight. Either way I get the night off and get paid. You on the other hand would be missing out on a payday if you no showed. However if you do show, you will get a concussion and have to cancel modelling gigs for a month, which will impact your finances. It’s up to you soy boy. Do the smart, yet cowardly thing. Or Manni up and get your ass beat quickly by me. I promise it will be quick and painful. The choice is yours. Alright reporter guy you get one more question, then I’m going back to the headphones. I just wanna let this be known to the reporters, DON’T BOTHER ME. That is unless my meager, starving  opponent decides to break his hunger strike and speak. Then you may wake me. Until then, this is last question. Make it good dude.

(A nervous chuckle from the reporter as he thought over the best way to say his question before delivering it.)

Reporter: After seeing you beat Cass Madrigal in Caged Glory, and seeing the decent number of women competing in this tournament, do you think that some sort of line should be drawn for when it comes to intergender competition?

BAD ASS: Not at all. If women feel like they can compete with men, and show that they can legitimately beat men, then I see no reason why they shouldn’t compete. Beating a woman doesn’t discredit my win, especially when you see the slew of male killers Cass has outclassed and tapped out. Don’t look at this as intergender football. Look at it as Mortal Kombat. Shit is reality nowadays. Ten years from now you’re going to see fatalities return. They were all the rage in the Roman Coliseum days.

(The reporter laughed with the crowd from BAD ASS’s remark. He gave him a light bow before sitting down. Back to the earbuds and zoning out, leaving the competitors waiting for the next reporter to stand.)

[Jason Jackson]

Jason sits quietly listening to Tony Tira run his mouth, and he can't help but laugh a bit to himself as the man comes out of the gate firing shots at him. Hell, he was going to come into this place and be respectful. He wasn't going to sling mud at his opponent or flat out tell him he was going to get steamrolled but Tony had fired his peashooter first, and now? It was time to roll out the big guns.

The so-called 'ice cold' stare finally makes the Samoan crack, and he doubles over to hold his abdomen in laughter. 

JASON JACKSON: This fuckin' guy! AHAHAHAHA. Get in the phone booth with me? Son, I will uppercut the soul out of you if you get close to me. You're fucked either way.  

Jason stands and gives the man a stare of his own. A stare that carried a bit more weight in the world of combat sports than his opponent's pathetic attempt at a leer a few moments earlier. A stare that multiple men and women had seen just shy of getting their heads knocked off their shoulders. 

JASON JACKSON: Then? I'll bounce your hollow fuckin' noggin off the mat like I'm playing paddleball with my fist until it's dented in like a chalice... So I can drink an ice cold Guinness from it, Tony Tiara...Do you seriously think you're just gonna just waltz in here and stand toe to toe with one of the baddest men on the planet? Really? Look down that table and ask Katsumi motherfucking Hoshiko what happens when you come to a press conference talking all wreckless to me like your silly ass just did. Go ahead... I'll wait. 

Jason taps his foot impatiently and checks his Cartier watch for effect, which gleams in the light like a crystal ball. 

JASON JACKSON: Go ahead bitch. Ask him. Time is money and I don't have all night. Shit, Speaking of money homie... you like this watch? It's probably worth ten of you. You know what? 

Jase walks over and takes the $10,000 watch off and puts it in front of his opponent with a smirk. 

JASON JACKSON: Here, take it. You can pawn that shit to pay your medical bills when I break your FUCKING jaw. 

Turning to walk back to his seat, Jason pulls the chair out but pauses to look over his shoulder. 

JASON JACKSON: By the way? The answer is.. "You wake up on your back asking the ref what happened" That's what the fuck happens. Watch the tape, it speaks for itself.  Questions? 

A reporter stands and raises a hand almost immediately and Jason slips back into his seat with a nod of his head. 

REPORTER: This is a different challenge than what you typically face every month in Caged Glory... what is going to be your biggest strength going into this tournament?

Jason thinks about the question for a minute and pulls his shades off to look at the reporter with an impressed nod. 

JASON JACKSON: Good question. I think being one of the toughest men to ever step into a cage helps. I've only been rocked a few times in my career and I've never been knocked out. Never. That's over 40 fights amateur and pro combined guys, we aren't even counting the fights on the street. I've finished fights against a long list of some of the baddest fighters on the planet. Men like Niko Holst, Men Ernest Cauldwell, Women like Lena Lyons... not to mention Katsumi down there. You know, people who are known for going out and putting fighters away, and none of them could do it. This Tony guy isn't gonna be the first, I promise you that. Plenty of cats have talked tough sitting at a table with me just like him but when I get into a cage or ring with them and the door closes or the bell rings? I see the fear of God in their fucking eyes. Tira won't be any different. 

The reporter scribbles down some notes and nods his head before continuing with a follow-up question. 


REPORTER: What do you think is going to be your biggest obstacle?


Jase laughs to himself and gives a nonchalant shrug as he looks down the table at everyone with a wink.


JASON JACKSON: Hoisting up that fuckin' trophy after it's all said and done and I'm left standing when the smoke clears. There is a trophy right? There better be a trophy. Otherwise, it's gonna be Tony Tiara's skull.

He looks around the room to see if anyone can confirm about there being a trophy, but soon shrugs it off and goes back to reclining in his chair. Another reporter stands to wave him down, and the fighter just signals with his hand for the woman to "get on with it".

REPORTER: Jason I'm--

The CGFC Dragon Champion holds his hand up to stop her as he leans up to the microphone with a sigh.

JASON JACKSON: I don't care what your name is or who you write for, to be honest. I always forget anyway. Carry on Pippi Longstocking.

The woman looks astonished at the response and being cut off by it, but she continues with her question...doing her best to keep things professional.

REPORTER: It’s a given that striking is your strong suit but which night do you think will be your biggest challenge.. Also, How familiar are you with Pankration rules and what kind of challenges do you think it will present?

Jase nods, realizing he was quick to judge the woman and that she actually had a good question. He rubs at his beard in thought and finally responds.

JASON JACKSON: Damn, Good question Pippi. I'm sorry I was mean to you now. I don't see any of the nights being too much of a challenge for me because I'm pretty well rounded no matter where things go in a fight. Pankration is a little new to me. The point system is a little fucky and there are no close handed shots to the head right? Someone might wanna go over the rules to that shit with me again beforehand because.. I'm not a Greek Olympian. I'm Polynesian bro. I just show up and fight. Last question. Let's go.... uhhhhhh

Jason's finger glides over the sea of hands and finally lands on a portly man in glasses.

JASON JACKSON: You... Egga-Mooby Muffin. Shoot.

The reporter gives the fighter a displeased scowl before shaking his head and continuing with his question.

REPORTER: Who is your greatest threat in this tournament?

Jason looks over at BADASS with a nod before answering quickly.

JASON JACKSON: That man right there, or Carrick Price. Slaughta is always a threat. If I don't win then they will.

[Zola Star]

The Star, Zola Star, sat politely with her sun glasses on watching the chaos unfold from all the press asking questions. Finally it was her turn to begin answering and she was clear headed ready with her responses. She calmly grabs the microphone, moves her sun glasses from her eyes and smiles to the press that was there to ask her questions.


Reporter 1: Zola, you haven't been in the ring in months since the closure of Rise Pro wrestling. What makes you think you're ready for this tournament?


Zola Star: My time in Rise Pro taught me a lot of things and I got to work with a lot of great talents and trainers. I have been back in the ring to brush up my skills and fend off ring rust. I feel like my ring work has come a long way and I've improved tremendously. That being said, this first round focuses on striking ability and before I came to pro wrestling I trained in kickboxing and MMA. So, I think that alone makes me more than capable of fairing well in this tournament. 


Reporter 1: Are you intimidated by a change of scenery and a competitor like Jade who you have never fought before?


Zola laughs a little at the question and shakes her head slowly.


Zola Star: Yeah, being here is a little bit different than what I'm used to, but the thing about me is that I like change of scenery. I'm a star and I'll shine bright no matter where I'm at. Jade is a great competitor, but I have experience with MMA and she doesn't. 


Reporter 2: What do you want the fans to get out of your performance in this tournament?


Zola thinks to herself for a moment before she answers flipping her hair over her other shoulder.


Zola Star: That's a good question. Obviously, I want the fans to be entertained. I want them to see that no matter how many people doubt you or tear you down you can keep fighting.


Reporter 3: Jade had some interesting things to say about you, she doesn't think you're a threat what do you have to say about that?


Zola looks over at Jade for a moment and keeps her eyes on her as she starts to answer the reporter's question.


Zola Star: Jade can really say all she wants. She didn't say anything that people haven't told me already.


Reporter 3: But she called you just a pretty face that's got to get on your nerves right?


Zola looks back at the reporter and scoffs at him.


Zola Star: People swear that I'm just eye candy and that I'm in this business to get famous. But, the whole reason I came here is to fight. I love the sport I love the feeling of being in a ring. I think this tournament is a great way to show people that. You see Jade has to talk shit about me so that she can convince herself that she can beat me. Trust me she's gonna wish that I was some prissy fake chick that plagues our industry. I'm from Chi-town okay? This isn't my first time sparring with some mouthy bitch. So, buckle up Jade....


Zola says turning her attention back to Jade.


Zola Star: Cause the reality is that when I'm done with you Jade...


Zola stands to her feet looking down at her opponent with a smile. 


Zola Star: You'll be seeing Stars.



The reporters start taking picture of Zola and beg her for another question, but she puts her shades back on decides to leave the conference. 

[laflare]

Once the crowd quieted down some reporters turned their attentions towards the Japanese native and former CGFC Dragon Champion Katsumi Hoshiko who was dressed in an black suit with a pair of sunglasses set next to a water bottle on the table. Despite hit name being mentioned by the likes of Jason Jackson and Connor Blackburn, he didn’t seem at all interested in what either of them or all the other competitors had to say in particular. There was clearly something running through the back of his head...His recent loss perhaps? Or business throughout the organization? Or maybe just thinking about his family? Katsumi looks up to his fellow brothers of the Yakuza who stood in a corner waiting for this press conference to end so that the could resume what it truly was they were meant to handle here in Mexico. Having to meet with high ranking members of the Reyes Cartel to make sure things they got the idea of what the Oyabun expects from them when it comes to their joint ventures. Hoshiko was particularly excited about meeting up with them to say the least.  

REPORTER 1 

Um..Katsumi? Mr. Hoshiko?  

Hoshiko snapped out of his trance and looked over to the reporter calling for him. He gave a hint of annoyance with his expression and nodded towards him.  

REPORTER 1 

I was asking what you thought about what Mr. Blackburn had to say?  

KATSUMI HOSHIKO 

Refresh my memory...I didn’t care to pay attention to what he had to say.  

REPORTER 1 

Um..Sure I um..He said that he believes you are on a decline because you are in a bit of a rough patch in your MMA career as of late. Also said that despite you being a Karate based striker and have had success in Caged Glory FC, you aren’t as well coached as some.  

Hoshiko chuckles at this and shakes his head.  

KATSUMI HOSHIKO 

Watashi wa hoshī toki ni katsu. Watashi wa hoshī toki ni ushinau. 

REPORTER 1 

Excuse me, sir? What was that? 

KATSUMI HOSHIKO 

I disagree with Mr. Blackburn. I have lost recent fights but this does not translate into me being on a decline or being not well coached. Apologies...I don’t think you have to be a member of this “Slaughta” franchise who has quite honestly recently adopted a gang like mentality rather than an actual gym just to be well coached. There are several other gyms one can join and progress greatly in their disciplines. At Krazy Bee MMA I have done just that. And I am not a Karate based fighter...I do have a black belt in the discipline but it is not the only striking discipline that i possess a black belt in. Foolish to say that it is but I don’t expect any of these people to know that much when it comes to truly understanding who it is I am.  

Another reporter stands.  

REPORTER 2 

Speaking of your recent loss...In that fight you um..Well recently you’ve been a bit more of an edgier fighter. Even your demeanor has changed of sorts. What has lead you to become such a dir---Controversial fighter as of late.  

Katsumi stares at the reporter for a moment and smiles.  

KATSUMI HOSHIKO 

Umi no shio wa tsuneni odayakade wanai. 

The reporters look around confused.  

KATSUMI HOSHIKO 

Things change. My life...Changed.  

REPORTER 2 

Do you feel bad for what you did to Elena Nguyen in title fight at Night of Glory: 20 at all? 

Hoshiko looks down to Elena’s coach and mentor Jackson then back to the reporter.  

KATSUMI HOSHIKO 

I regret nothing. I did what I wanted. I lit a fire under her...Maybe she should thank me for the lesson.  

Reporters yell out or his attention until one actually gets to ask a question.  

REPORTER 3 

Katsumi what made you want to be a part of the Iron King Tournament? Do you hope to start a professional wrestling career with Phoenix Wrestling? And do you believe you have what it takes to defeat Blackburn and advance through this tournament?  

KATSUMI HOSHIKO 

I saw an opportunity and I took it. I do not plan on becoming a professional wrestler. I do not plan to part take in something that is choreographed. I enjoy watching from the stands but being a wrestler is not something I want to be. I am a fighter. A warrior. This tournament is something beyond what professional wrestling is. As you can see PW wanted true warriors of the octagon to take part in this tournament. They wanted something of...Legitimacy to be part of it’s annual tournament. I can not fault them for wanting this. Do I expect to defeat Blackburn? Of course. I am better than him despite whatever he may believe. That’s my expectation but sometimes...Things change. 

He says with a smirk.  

[Maz]

Sitting in front of what, a thousand or more, everyone with microphones and an agenda to either annoy or get under skin. Masaru Inoue, sitting at the table with equal amount as the other side, stared at everyone through his shades as his blonde bangs with red tips were pressed down tightly thanks to the black skullcap that had doll-ish resemblance of himself and his fabulous partner, Aurora with three letters that represented an acronym, “Hell Is Waiting”. With a bottle of water gripped in between his right hand, he signaled his fingers to the crowd that he was ready for questions in his first-ever Press Conference.

MASARU INOUE: “Go ahead, just don’t bore me!”

Waiting for someone to be the first to ‘bug’ him, the first reporter stepped up, a woman, blonde herself as she pushed herself through the crowd of other reporters to be a bit clearer to him.

FEMALE REPORTER: “Kon'nichiwa Masaru, this is your first Press Conference. My question to you is how are you feeling and how do you feel about your chances in this year’s Iron King Tournament? Thank you!”

Masaru head and eyes faced the female reporter as he shook his head.

MASARU INOUE: “You said ‘Question’, not ‘Questions’. Two questions. Okay. First, how do I feel? I don’t know how or what to feel right now.”

Maz sighed, shaking his head.

MASARU INOUE: “I’ve been in every Iron King Tournament that this company has hosted and I have yet to win one. This time is my time to take the ball and chain. I have the skills to do it. These rules play in my hands to demolish whoever the hell stands in my way. So yeah, I feel my chances are pretty high this year. Next?”

And right on cue, was the next reporter.

MALE REPORTER: “Masaru, speaking of chances, your opponent for the first round of the tourney is newcomer Fenix Shields who is looking to make a name off of you. How do you plan to take him out?”

Masaru slowly pulled his shades down from his face as he got a better, clearer look at the reporter, turning his head just slightly.

MASARU INOUE: “Who??”

MALE REPORTER: “Fenix Shields, he has been on the roster for a few weeks now in Phoenix Wrestling. He’s facing you in the first round. How do you plan to go against him?”

Masaru kept his bold face on for as long as he could before he burst into laughter, leaving the reporter in a slightly confused state.

MASARU INOUE: “Fenix Shields? Is he related to Chris? Know what, nevermind that question. Answer this for me. Whats the rules of this first round?”

MALE REPORTER: “...Striking Rules Only?”

MASARU INOUE: “Goood boy! Now, what do I specialize in?”

MALE REPORTER: “...Striking!”

Masaru ejected himself from his seat to stand up and loudly applaud the reporter before re-taking his seat moments later.

MASARU INOUE: “I knew you were a smart one. Now you put those two together and you get an annihilation. Fenix Shields, I see the play-on of the name. Fenix equals Phoenix. He thinks he’s going to rise above it all and burn bright. Oh no! He’s going even further down into the pit. Hell awaits him.”

Masaru’s arms went up, wondering if there were any more who wanted to ask him questions. A few seconds of waiting, it seemed his answers were satisfying enough for no need for more...or either they were in fear of seeing him snap. In that case, he was done for the time being.

[Cupcake]

For a moment there’s a bit of buzzing going on, some of the reporters glancing to each other to see if anyone was going to try another question for Masaru, then there was a rough sound, a clearing of a throat done unnecessarily loudly and abrasively; then a bright brassy laugh rolls over the assembled fighters and reporters, attention going towards the Caged Glory Fight Club’s current Imperial Champion, Sherry Diamond. She lightly scratches the side of her nose and leans forward towards the microphone again.

SHERRY DIAMOND: Gotta shout out since y’alllll talkin’ bout Slaughta. Hey Shark? LAWL. I had to wait and all that, but it was worth it… anyway sup Jason?

Which you know, lawl really sort of sounds just like how Sherry types it, which is somehow worse but here you are. Sherry gives a lil salute to Jackson before she grins and stands up a bit to stamp her worn in the heels leather cowboy boots, then plops back down in the chair and hoists her jean clad legs up to rest them on the table with a thump. She lifts the tail of her Shiner Bock t-shirt and fans her belly, looking way more relaxed than she usually does at that, her hair in braids and clipped with little Texas flag pins that sparkle when she moves her head.

Benjamin Chudnofsky, Lidia Valcallan and Gatland Tobias step up then, the three reporters elbowing their way to the front of the pack to ask her questions despite the deadpan look Sherry gives them, starting with Ben.

Benjamin C: Sherry, I’d like to start with asking you what it’s like being under the purview of a wrestling promotion again, after being away from the sport for all this time?

Sherry’s brows knit together for a moment, her look incredulous before she sighs, leans over and gets a beer out of the cooler at her feet, lazily cracking the can open and taking a few sips before she sighs and answers him.

SHERRY DIAMOND: What the fuck kind of question is that? I mean I guess I expected better? Or mebbe you to fire up a softball for me asking what I’m doing in this tournament at all since I already got a title… but no, no. Look, sure, there was a reason I quit wrestling… for them that don’t know and I see a whole lot of don’t know shit up in this room right now… I used to wrestle. Big ol’ place out of Vegas and I held myself a couple titles for a damn respectable amount of time considering the murder’s row that was also employed there. Had them tag team titles too, point of order. See, there’s always gotta be somebody that thinks things gotta be…

She pauses a moment, then snaps her fingers.

SHERRY DIAMOND: Equivalent like this was damn Full Metal Alchemist or some shit. But yanno, it’s easy to say that. Apples n’ oranges are different but at the end of the day they’re both fruit. All of us in here at some point thought… shit, man, it’d be a good idea to fight for money because hell yeah I can do that. Especially since I fight anyhow, right? Man fuck all that noise. When I wrestled I didn’t give a rat’s ass what my opponent thought about me, or said about me for that matter. I cared about getting paid, and the bigger the check the better. I said it again and again, that it was all business, I was pure mercenary about it. Then… was a couple times it wasn’t and that’s where the trouble leaks in. Am I right?

Her gaze is hard as it pans around, lingering on the few that did or do still wrestle before she continues.

SHERRY DIAMOND: You know I am, even if you ain’t gonna man up and say so. Thing is, when the wrestling was over, it was OVER… and I wasn’t done fighting.. But I didn’t just all arrogant snot nosed dumbshit my way into a cage, nah. I had a goal, I got out there and busted my ass and did the fucking work before I made a debut. Made some new goals on the way. But the point is, Benjamin, that while this tournament might be bein’ held by a wrestling company, it’s at the heart way more about what we do then what they’re used to. Watch some of the last ones, you can see how some of the best wrestlers out there had trouble with the rules, the ways of conducting’ themselves. Can’t just smack somebody’s ass with a steel chair in MMA because they annoyed you or their walk out music took too long or you hate the way the oil they put in their fightin’ braids smells.

Lidia Valcallan elbows Benjamin out of the way and raises her hand a bit before Sherry nods to let her know to go ahead.

Lidia V: What was your initial reaction to hearing that you were facing Giles Whitmor in the first round?

Sherry held up a finger and took a few more long sips of her beer, she seems almost thoughtful after she finishes, looking down at the can until she turns her head a little and belches, snickering afterward at the reactions of the reporters both amused and otherwise before she sighs loudly enough that the microphone picks it up.

SHERRY DIAMOND: I mean look, dude is about six foot of thinking he’s a damn Kid Rock song, cept he’s British. I don’t know what you want to hear here, Lydia. I mean a fight is a fight is a fight, he looks like he might got a good arm on him? But there’s no damn way he’s prepared for somebody that hits like me. I’m not exaggerating, you ask anyone I’ve ever tagged with one of these…

She holds up both her hands after setting her beer can down, and makes fists with them before she drops them to her lap.

SHERRY DIAMOND: He’s gonna get up and say something smart ass, I imagine, if the cat ain’t got his tongue, and then when I hit him real real good that first time in the ring I’m going to make him look me in the eye after he gets up so I can see that look when he realizes he’s in over his lil British head. Like sure, I gave enough of a shit to watch some of his matches, had my coach have a look, y’know… talk about it some. But I already train at a level where I better be able to take this fuckin’ guy so there’s that shit.

She pauses, and points out Conor and Masaru.

SHERRY DIAMOND: Them two? Way, way more fucking dangerous than Whitmor’s pasty ass ass. Yeah I said ass ass and it wasn’t a stutter. Y’all can laugh all you want though I know I’m funny. But Conor’s a mother fucking beast and Masaru’s a pound for pound lethal striker… we all know how I am about money but I know where I’d be dropping a few stacks if I were betting.

Lydia nods and asks another question.

Lydia V: What is your take on the confidence that the members of Slaughta Gym are showing?

Sherry blinks, looking around again and chuckling.

SHERRY DIAMOND: They get loud, they get all ‘confident’ like you said, because they got some walking around proof about the issue, Lydia. I mean, they’ve trained champions, current and past, prolly future too. It’s hard to argue results, right? To celebrate when the stars are on the rise. So if they want to get a lil wild about it, how’s that skin off my nose? I mean, I ain’t the one to get upset about somebody else getting some stacks unless they’re trying to take mine.

Gatland Tobias steps up then and nods before he asks his question.

Gatland T: Would you say there’s anyone in this tournament you’d be afraid to face?

Sherry just laughs and laughs for few long moments, inhales hard, and laughs some more before like a light switch snapping she goes instantly serious.

SHERRY DIAMOND: Nah. But… there’s a damn few that I would really like to see across from me, if’n we both were to get that far. Fights I wanted, already. That sort. Ain’t a man or woman in this I fear… which ain’t to say I’ve never met somebody I was afraid of because that’s a damn lie. Just ain’t here. Anybody else? Nah? Aight.

Sherry clearly lets them know she’s done by turning her microphone around and then reaching for another beer.

[kenfucius]

Sandy had barely registered any of the questions asked and answered thus far in the press conference. Throughout the back and forth conversations, his opponent’s gaudy entrance, the old friend banterings of BAD ASS and Seth Black, the imposing figure of Jason Jackson casting his shadow as he had walked past him on his way to throwing away a five figure sum to make a statement to the guy sitting a couple of seats down from him… none of it had seemed to touch him.

He’d watched the proceedings exuding serenity, enjoying the show without being drawn into it. The words mattered little, they were noise. Sandy was watching for tells, the things people didn’t want to say, wanted to hide. He was looking for the nerves, the foolish bravado, the signs of cracking. Everything else was a sideshow, but you put this many people in a room this close to them all fighting each other, and there are a lot of things that are going to slip out of the pores with the sweat, and Sandy was soaking it up, watching for the angles.

Sandy was feeling it himself. Everyone had their own ways of coping, his was people-watching. Treat it like a game, and you could play the stakes smarter. Sandy might have quit gambling, but that didn’t mean he’d stopped looking for an edge.

Sandy’s eyes met those of Seth Black. They’d known each other a long time, dating back to before even Seth had first turned up in Phoenix Wrestling, long enough that Black showed no surprise when Sandy had expressed an interest in the Iron King. The two weren’t friends, far from it, but there was little hostility between them. Such times had come and gone. A raised eyebrow from Black met a shrug of the shoulders from Sandy. ”Yes Seth, I can take questions. No Seth, I don’t care if it’s now.”

The implicit message was sent, and Seth played conductor, directing the tune of the gathered reporters to play Sandy’s way. The Dice leaned forward in his chair as the first question came in…

Reporter: Sandy. Mike Liebowitz, Combat Sport Central. The question has been asked a few times already, and I’m sure it’ll come up a few more times before we’re through, but it seems more appropriate to you than most given your experience. What drew you to sign up for the Iron King tournament as a wrestler with no MMA background?

Sandy leaned forward in his chair, a small smile playing across his lips.

Sandy: Calling me old?

Liebowitz paused for a second, worrying how to respond. These press conferences could get rowdy over the slightest thing. Sandy waved a hand and chuckled.

Sandy: Because, I mean… you’re not wrong. I’m nearly forty and I’ve never fought in any discipline except pro Wrestling. So trust me, It’s a question I’ve looked in the mirror and asked myself a few times. Like, “Sandy, what the fuck are you thinking?”

That got a chuckle from the assorted press corps.

Sandy: There’s a few answers to this. I wanted to test myself, for one. I remember the days when MMA guys came into wrestling because there weren’t places like CGFC around yet, so wrestling was the only chance some of these guys had at a payday. I’ve been training to fight against MMA guys for years because of that, they brought a different look to things that a lot of people found hard to deal with. I respect the hell out of what they do, and I’ve always wanted to test myself in their world the way they tested themselves in mine. Add into that the name and prestige of Phoenix Wrestling and the Iron King, a company I’ve had a soft spot for since its inception and a tournament I’ve always wanted to enter and never had the opportunity to until now, and it all added up. Plus, there’s some personal stuff going on for me too. Those guys at Generation Fight, they’re a new gym, new crew, haven’t gotten anyone to the big stage yet, but they’ve done a hell of a lot of work with me to help me get ready for this, and this is a chance for me to give back, earn them some money and rep their name well on a national level.

Liebowitz: Earn them some money? What about yourself?

Sandy gave a shrug.

Sandy: Underground pays my bills, my share of the purse anywhere else is going to charity, which is all I’m going to say on that for now. Next question.

A few hand raises, and Sandy pointed. A question started and was quickly cut off.

Sandy: No, not you, the guy behind you. I’m not answering any of your questions, Stan, I know you work for TDZ and I’m not going to talk about my addiction recovery or anyone else’s sex tape. Now keep your hand down, fucking parasite. Don’t even know how you got accredited for this.

The ‘journalist’ in question looked like he was about to fight his corner, but was drowned out by the others actually interested in talking about fighting, and the one Sandy had actually gestured towards spoke up.

Reporter 2: Sandy, how do you see your strengths and weaknesses stacking up with others here going into this tournament?

Sandy gave a chuckle.

Sandy: I’m not going to go handing these guys a game plan for dealing with me. Figuring out where I’m stronger or weaker is their job, but anyone who has dug into my history shouldn’t have too much trouble figuring it out. I will say this, I am at something of a disadvantage in this room. I’d be better suited to night two and grappling than night one and striking. I’m not going to run down Twin over on the other table, he’s a Kickboxer of note, and that’s not where I’m best. I’m in a bit of a spot with how this played out, and I can’t afford any mistakes. That said, I’ve spent nearly twenty years getting hit real damn hard by real big hitters and I’m still here. My greatest strength isn’t a skill or a discipline, it’s finding a way to win when everyone considers me a long shot or afterthought. Anyone wants to count me out because this isn’t my world? Feel free.

Sandy scanned the room, and pointed out another reporter with a raised hand.

Reporter 3: Any other thoughts on your first round opponent?

Sandy glanced over at the other table with a smile.

Sandy: That he’s half right. In a wrestling ring, with all due respect, he couldn’t live with me. This is a different situation, and experience favors him, but I don’t think he realises just how hard a hit I can take, nor do I think he realizes how hard I can hit him. Shout out again to my boys over at Generation Fight, they’ve been phenomenal at getting me prepared for this, and I’m ready to go.

Sandy grabs a pen and a sheet of paper and quickly scribbled something on it, then he waved over one of Twin’s entourage of girls with a smile, and handed her the sheet of paper.

Sandy: Give that to Twin, that’s the autograph he wanted. No charge, man…

Sandy smirked at he looked at his opponent for the first night of the Iron King.

Sandy: Remember though, no charge doesn’t mean you aren’t getting a receipt.

Sandy leaned back in his chair, gesturing an end to his portion of the questioning, and started watching the room once more, getting a feel for his potential future opposition.

[James Edwards]

Slightly tardy and casually dressed in jeans, a black zip-up hoodie, and a Pittsburgh Pirates cap, James Edwards trudges across the stage with his eyes on the floor and hands in his pockets. He finds the nearest chair on the right side of the stage and plops into it, slouched over the microphone like a hangover for a college student on spring break.

James Edwards: I don't like these things. They're a waste of my time and yours. Y'all get a bunch of half-assed answers, and it pisses you off. We gotta sit here and talk about shit that doesn't matter once the bell rings. With that said, I'm gonna keep this short and won't be takin' any question. Believe it or not, I ain't got anything the guy I'm fightin, Chris Andrew. We had a pretty nasty brawl in DARC last year. I've tried to forget my time there, and I'm pretty sure the rest of roster has too...

The assembled press laugh, as does the talent seated at the long tables. Edwards scowls, he doesn't understand what is so funny and is not thrilled about being cut off.

James Edwards: Anyways.

There is an edge to his voice that suggests it would be a mistake to interrupt him again.

James Edwards: I have a lot of respect for Chris. He was a better man than I was back then. He tried to keep a cheatin' champion from escaping during a title fight I had, and I didn't appreciate it. I went after em'. We couldn't see each other in the building without wantin' kill each other. Miles Blake kicked us out of the venue until we settled our shit. That's why we had our street fight because the things we were gonna to do each other didn't belong in a wrestling ring. Long story short, I threw him feet-first down a manhole and took a few months off his career in the process. I don't blame him if he hates me for that. If he wants to put me in the hospital, I get it, but the fact is that fight made me want to be a better man. I still feel guilty about what I did and why I did it. I was a self-righteous prick who thought he was too good to accept help. I owe Chris an apology and the only way to do that is to give him a real fight. No carny shit involved, just me and him findin' out who the better man is between the ropes. It should be a close fight, and I don't think my strikin' will give the edge most folks assume I'll have. Chris was a great athlete the last time we matched up, and he has become an even better tag team champion here in Phoenix Wrestling since then. Whichever one of us advances won't be an easy out in the next round.

A pause.

James Edwards: There is only one thing that separates us.

James finally looks up and stares at the assembled journalists.

James Edwards: He's proven why he belongs in this company. I haven't. He's won a title. I haven't. If anything that makes me hungrier. The fans and roster here haven't seen what I can do one-on-one. Every match I've had has been a damn triangle mess. Those things aren't designed for fighters like me. They're for men like Lance Winters and Giles Whitmore, bastards who need distractions so they can hide from the beatin' they are owed. Two of em' robbed me of a chance to be an outright number one contender and a champion. Don't get me wrong I could've maybe done more to finish those fights when I had the chance, sayin' otherwise is an excuse, and I make those when I fail. But at the same time, I also asked for the people in charge to give me bigger fights to prove myself. I ain't done that. I ain't justified getting so many chances in such a short time. So I gotta find a way to pay em' back for their faith in me. I gotta win this tournament and show I'm not just another guy with a big mouth who flames out when the pressure ratchets up. That's all I got to say.

He leans back in his chair and stares at the floor.