Redemption 126: Night Two 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. 

Jackson Felix Coltrane vs. Tyberius King

Frisky D. vs. Frankie Starlight

Geno 'Forklift' Fortliti vs. Heavy 'Chevy' Blythe

Rex Evans vs. Carrick Price

The Fin-Nisher vs. Ernest Cauldwell

Lance Winters (c) vs. Konrad Raab

Rowyn Starr vs. Richard Roque

Anastasia Starling (c) vs. Mandi Andrew (c)

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

[richardroque]

[Richard Roque had been in a lot of big matches in his time. He once competed for the Phoenix Television Championship. He once competed for the Phoenix Tag Team Championships. Yet the big man could never come out on top. He was billed as a "enhancement talent" towards the tail end of his PW career, which caused him to turn his creative energies towards something he had passion for. Even more than wrestling. Bodybuilding. Through the encouragement of his lovely wife Peaches, Richard was able to start up his own gym, then go on to grow it into the global fitness phenomena it is today known as Roque Total Body Fitness. While his success in the ring was limited, his success in the business world was unparalleled. 

That was about to change. Like every wrestler who has ever faced the bright lights and a loud crowd, you never truly get over that addiction. You want more. You want another taste of the spotlight. While Richard's main goal was a sponsor for Phoenix Wrestling, he had the itch to lace up the boots and the motivation to get back into the ring. A common enemy between two men caused them to form a friendship, one that would only be strengthened by these two warriors battling it out in the Iron King Tournament.

Richard sat across from Rowyn, feeling that Mexico heat bearing down on him. He reached forward and took a swig of water, swishing it around before gulping it down. He took a look out to the jam packed auditorium hosting this press conference, then back down to the press conference table saying "Dear lord give me strength." Mandi Andrew gave him an odd look, which quickly caused him to snap out of it and be confident. A reporter stood up from the sea of flashes, brave enough to start off this press conference.]

ALEJANDRO ALMAS: Hi this question is for Richard Roque. I am Alejandro with Mexico MMA News. Can you tell me what it is going to be like for you to compete against a friend of yours?

[Richard sighed and laughed, then looked to Rowyn and nodded at him with a smile. He then looked back to the announcer and spoke.]

RR: It's an honor and a privilege to be competing against a man as talented as Rowyn Starr. He's a former PW World Champion for crying out loud. And he won it in this tournament right here...Iron King. I'm sincerely thankful that I don't have to feel those hard fists of his. I can already feel it through the padding on our sparring sessions.

[The crowd laughed along with Richard.]

RR: I'm also thankful that PW gave me a chance in a match I might actually win. Dare me for having confidence, but gosh darn it, I might very well out grapple my good friend Rowyn.

RR: That's fine, underestimate me. But I have a legit wrestling background.

AA: What type of background Richard?

RR: All American and New York State Champion. I have the wrestling background to take down Rowyn and keep him down. I will have to watch out for his submissions though as the man is dangerous with those. But I'm confident in my technique and strength.

AA: Thank you.

[Alejandro sat down and another reporter stood up, this one a young female.]

MARTINA JUAREZ: I am Martina Juarez, Loco Lucha Press. My question is for Richard. Richard, what have you been doing to prepare for this match?

[Richard smiled.]

RR: Like I said earlier, he has dangerous submissions so I've been working on my ground game. Other than that, getting a good pump, running eight miles a day, and eating clean. When I'm not rolling on the mat I'm running up the hill. If I'm not in the gym I'm in the swimming pool. You're going to see the best version of Richard Roque ever. I just think it sucks that my good friend Rowyn will be the first to see the new and improved Roque. Rowyn, I pray every night that neither of us injures each other. May god ride with us both.

[Rowyn nodded from across the way with a big grin.]

RR: Win or lose, me and that great man over there are going out for Horchatas and Donkey Rides after our fight!

[Richard started to clap, then realized that no one was clapping with him and he should stop. Richard looked down at the table as Martina shrugged. She looked confused by the response, and just weirdly nodded at him before sitting down. The room stood in silence as Richard had killed his own interview momentum.]

["The Iceman" Konrad Raab]

It has been a very long week for Konrad Raab when it came to wrestling as he wrestled in the UK, in Canada, in America last night and now back in Mexico. He's been travelling non-stop with the wrestling matches he had and he had no time to rest once again as he only just arrived from Chicago this morning and barely had time to check in his hotel room since he had to come straight to the press conference room with Richard Roque being the first one to speak about his fight tonight. Konrad was next to talk as he takes a drink before he speaks.

Konrad Raab: "It's good to be here once again for the Phoenix Wrestling Iron King tournament as I received an invitation from the post to join again and how could I say no when I'm about proving myself that I'm a much better wrestler than last year so I signed on the dotted line and sent away to be accepted in this prestigious tournament. I'm aware I'm out of depth here as I have no experience at all whatsoever when it comes to MMA but I have respect for what the guys and girls do in the sport, especially I have a loved one who takes part in MMA or she will be back to do MMA soon."

Konrad takes a quick sip of the water he was given and speaks again.

Konrad Raab: "Although I've been to four countries since Friday, I had time with my loved one on Sunday to give me tips about being an MMA grappler which I wasn't aware it was very different to the rules I'm used to in wrestling. Some of it is the same, but there are different rules and we did quite a lot of grappling together in a local MMA gym in Canada. I also have some experience with boxing as well as before I became a wrestler, I had two boxing matches just for a bit of fun, even still use my fists for wrestling today."

Konrad takes a breather as he thinks what to say to his opponent who's sitting the opposite end of him as he speaks to the cameras.

Konrad Raab: "Which comes to my opponent who's currently Rising Phoenix champion here in Phoenix Wrestling, Lance Winters. So I looked up and even watched some of his matches and he's a really talented wrestler who's got where he is in very short time to be the champion he is. Got to give Lance credit for that as not many wrestlers can rise to the top in that such short space of time."

If there's one thing Konrad doesn't like doing at any stage of wrestling or MMA for that matter was doing trash talking. He hated it and he wished he never had to do it at all but knows, it's apart of the sport and has to be done as instead of looking ahead towards the camera, he looks towards Lance who's sitting at the opposite end of the table as he speaks after taking a sip of water.

Konrad Raab: "However in spite of all of that, what I don't like is you trash talking to your opponents while you're wrestling against them in matches. That to me is pretty disrespectful when you're meant to focus on the task ahead of you in the ring to win. Yes, I get it may give you an advantage but you don't need to because you have the skill to be where you are. Also, violence is something I expect from you too because you love to be angry and aggressive, I'm a very aggressive wrestler too, but I never use aggression or anger in a negative way, I use them in a way that's positive to give me the ice bite to win matches."

People were lost when Konrad said ice bite because they knew he meant fire but maybe it might be just the part of his personality as he was looking at Lance the entire time as he wasn't someone to bad mouth people when they are in the same room with them.

Konrad Raab: "You might be a champion, but your actions outside and even in the ring doesn't act like it. You may try and find ways to catch me off guard in every possible way to gain advantages to win this fight against me and I may have been to four different countries since Thursday but I will not cheat or use cheap advantages to win because I will fight you fair and square and if it means making you tap to win matches as I don't believe the knock out rule, so be it but I'm coming to advance in this tournament with pure aggression and anger to win because I believe in myself I can and will do it."

Serious as Konrad was while looking at Lance Winters who he hasn't taken his eye off since he addressed him and he speaks again.

Konrad Raab: "I'm doing everything to bring my absolute best against you and do everything it takes to win because I will be winning and advancing in this match to know I've done everything to have the small amount of training I had with my loved one on Sunday to beat you and win the fight because I know you aren't gonna say or do anything to hurt me because I've grown to ignore the bullshit I know you will say to get in my head, but I will focus on getting you down and beating you until I lock in a submission hold on you to a point you'll have no choice, but to tap out and it starts here tonight of the entire wrestling world seeing that I can be an MMA grappler with wrestling skills I have to win. Prepare to be Iceinated by The Iceman."

That's all Konrad has to say towards Lance Winters as he turns around to the cameras and drinks more water as he waits patiently for somebody else to ask a fighter a question or for the next fighter to speak in the room.

[The Collective]

The great Konrad Raab had just finished his spiel, leaving it dead quiet in the PC room. Breaking the silence was the suppressed chuckle of Frankie Starlight who put a fist up to his split lip. This caught the attention of the press, who turned their heads his way. It didn’t help that he had to mock Konrad, even with the German accent.

“You will be Iceinated by the Iceman.”

Just hearing himself say it loudly got him to laugh even louder and pound his fist on the press conference table. Admittedly he did get a few chuckles from the crowd and his fellow wrestlers/fighters. Frankie could feel the eyes of Konrad on him, so he peered his head down his table and said, “you need to put that shit on a t-shirt. You would sell thousands. Millions even!!”

More laughter from the jester which only brought on Konrad heating up. Just as it seemed as if we were on the road to a PC brawl, a young Hispanic man stood up out of the crowd decked out in his favorite World Cup gear.

“Hi, Manuel Goncalves from Monterrey Jacked Up. I have a few questions…”

“Fire away Manny!!”

“Actually, my questions were for your stablemate Geno Fortliti.”

Frankie got some embarrassment laughter as he sat back in his brown leather chair with a frown. The nervous looking Geno took a big gulp of water before looking to the reporter.

“Sure.”

“Okay good. Geno your battle with ‘Heavy’ Chevy Blythe is a true battle of giants as we get to see the two biggest men in the tournament go at it. What is your strategy for a big man like Chevy?”

A nervous gulp travelled down his gullet before he put those trembling lips to the mic. “I’m a real fighter. I’ve been in a lot of fights. I will be prepared. I must stick to the game plan. He is strong and good with takedowns. But not as strong as me FUCK SHIT BRRRR FUCK!!!”

Gasps could be heard through the crowd as Geno immediately shut up. His big red face was buried into his arms as he laid his head down on the PC table. This brought Frankie to clear his throat into the mic. “I’ll take over for my partner there. See he’s got turrets. The less he talks, the better. The more you make him talk and well, that’s what you get. Now to finish where my boy left off, Chevy is a strong bull motherfucker. But I sincerely doubt he’s stronger than Geno. He’s gonna try to take down Geno, but Geno has been training takedown defense like crazy with me. That’s the main thing we’ve been working on in the gym. I’m sure Chevy is a competent wrestler, but we’re preparing for this big boy’s bread and butter.”

Frankie could already feel the big man breathing on him as they were seated right next to each other, so he tried to be careful with his words. Much to his chagrin, this reporter still wanted to talk about Geno. “Alright. My other question is how is Geno’s knee holding up? It was the main catalyst in The Collective losing their Duos Championship match. How do you think it will hold up in a grappling match?”

Before he answered he looked across the way to see Geno still hating himself for letting his turrets kick in. Frankie shook his head, disappointed to see his teammate go through so much inner turmoil. He then turned to the reporter with a smirk. “He’ll be fine, trust me. We’ll bandage up his knee real good, give him some Advil, BAM, good as new. Geno is a soldier through and through, and it will take a lot more than some fuckin’ leg injury to take my boy out. Chevy loves using ground and pound, but if he does in this match he’ll be disqualified. That gives Geno an even playing field. I think even with a bum leg he can grind this out.”

“Thank you.” Satisfied with the answers, the reporter went to sit down. Frankie stopped him.

“HEY!!” You ain’t got a question for me?”

Manuel looked confused, and tried to think up a generic question on the spot. He noticed a thick black bandanna covering a head wound on Frankie’s forehead, and asked about it. “I noticed you are going into this match with injuries as well. How do you plan on moving ahead with such injuries?”

A chuckle from Frankie who then rolled his eyes. “Well I can’t say you didn’t try. Yeah I still got two fucked up arms. Yeah, now my forehead is fucked up. But my opponent Frisky ain’t exactly fresh and clean coming out of the Roulette Cell either. Masaru face fucked her through that pod, so we’re both coming in with banged up heads. Good thing this ain’t a striking match, I ain’t about to busted open again. Manny I’ll do what I always fuckin’ do, because I practically have fought injured most of my career. I’ll suck it the fuck up and do my damn job. Geno doesn’t want to do this shit. I don’t want to do this Iron King shit. But Tony is all gung ho about it so he’s peer pressuring us to just fuckin’ do it. This is just another day in the office for me Manny.”

A weird nod from Manny with an uncomfortable grin. “Thanks.”

He sat down and there was a ten second quiet. A thick young white woman stood out of the crowd sporting a hipster look. “Hey this is Gina Yates, ColorsofMMA.com. I have a question for both Frankie AND Geno.”

A smile from Frankie. “There ya go. Fire off toots, whichever one you want first.”

She smiled back at the banged up, yet handsome Starlight. “Alright, we’ll go with you first. Frisky recently has been working of her jiu jitsu. As banged up as she may be, she is more of a grappler than you. How do you plan on working past these inadequacies?”

Not the complimentary question he was hoping for, but a question nonetheless.

“Inadequacies...great. Well, I can tell you for one I honestly do not want to do this match. Because I realize those ‘inadequacies’, and I realize that Seth Black put me in a situation that’s not going to be easy to win. I already hurt for a solid thirty minutes, every morning when I wake up. I’ve wrestled most of my career with two bum wings, hence my style being mainly a flyer and a kicker. I feel set up, I feel like I should be able to opt out. But I ain’t. I’m just gonna take this ass kickin’ and move on.”

“Are you saying you have no faith you can win this fight?”

A sigh from Frankie. “I wouldn’t say no faith. It’s just that I’m already beat to shit, I don’t want to get even more beat to shit. And if I try my hardest, yeah I can beat Frisky. But is it worth it? I’ve looked further down the road to Iron King. Every show gets more and more violent. I want to get a few more years out of this gig before I retire. That’s gonna get down to a year or so if I keep on beating myself up. I’m gonna try….but not very hard. Sorry Frisky, I’m fuckin’ done with hospital beds.”

“Okay. And my final question is for Geno. Geno is known for his immense power, but what else does he have to offer in a grappling match?”

“Oh god. You haven’t seen Geno wrestle before, have you?”

She looked a little embarrassed, but continued on. “No, I haven’t. I work for an MMA publication.”

Frankie smirked and rolled his eyes. “Figures. Geno’s finisher is a claw to the face called the Fork To The Face. Normally, that move fuckin’ hurts. But when applied by a freak like Geno, it becomes a move than can incapacitate any man on the face of this planet. Geno rips phone books in half for fun. He crushes billiard balls in front of any motherfuckers who wanna mad dog us at the bar. I’m sure Chevy got some moves.”

He then looked over to Chevy who was bearing down on him with those heavy breaths. “But if Geno catches ya with the claw buddy, you’re gonna tap. Sorry but he’d tap King Kong with that fuckin’ claw.”

Not liking the feeling of the beastly Chevy staring a hole through him, he turned his attention back to the reporter. “So yeah. He don’t need anything else but the claw.”

She smirked and nodded. “Well okay. Thank you for your time.”

Frankie winked at her, then leaned forward on the press conference table. Trying his best to get this living final fight character out of his peripherals as the room became quiet again.

[Tritch]

With questions and answers bouncing back and forth across the room like a tennis match, one man sat staring at the screen of his phone from behind sunglasses, clearly worn indoors simply to hide this fact. At that very moment, there was a woman on the screen trying to cover her face as a man sat on top of her, raining down punches at her guard, before he grabbed her for an incredible bow and arrow chokehold.

It was towards the end of the third round of a fight from Caged Glory’s Pride & Glory II, when Elena Nguyen made Carrick Price tapout to become the inaugural Shogun Champion. It had to be at least the tenth time Rex Evans had watched it over the past couple of weeks, since learning who his first round opponent in the 2018 Iron King Tournament would be.

He watched how Elena managed to wriggle free of the impressive chokehold, making note of how calm she remained and the way she turned the tables on him. It was import - what was that? - it was important that he - there it is again, what’s that noise?

“-ster Evans, are you with us?” a voice called for the third or fourth time from the sea of reporters, all of whom were now focused solely on the distracted ring veteran. Rex looked up from behind his sunglasses, quickly clearing his throat and pushing upright in his chair.

“Of course, my apologies,” he nodded, unscrewing the cap of a water bottle as he pushed his sunglasses up to the top of his head, squinting out to find the man who was speaking to him.

“Mhm,” the reporter made a note on his pad, shaking his head with a muffled laugh. “Years ago, before your retirement, one of the things people always criticized you for before a big match or after a big loss was how much you have on your plate. It seems like you’re always being pulled in numerous directions. You’re the owner and face of an international company, you’re creating a television show for the Evolve Network, why step out of retirement now when it’s clear your schedule has only gotten busier?”

A slight smirk tugs at Rex’s lips, but it’s not the cocky kind of smirk often seen on professional fighters. It’s there to hide the anger trying to slip its way into Rex’s demeanor. He shakes his head, looking down at the screen of his phone, before picking it up and turning it around.

“I was actually watching one of my opponents recent fights,” Rex explains, causing the fans in attendance behind the reporters to laugh out and applaud. “I’m well aware of the size of my plate and the contents with which I fill it, which is why I’ve learned the very important art of delegation. My two years away from this business opened my eyes to just how important it is to me. I didn’t come back for money, I didn’t come back for fame, I’ve got plenty of all that already. I’m here because I breathe wrestling, I breathe fighting… and you need to breathe to survive.”

The reporters expression changes indescribably, as he sits down after the surprising answer he wasn’t expecting. Rex begins to lean back in his chair, but several hands begin shooting up accompanied by incoherent voice. The Avatar of Brutality takes another sip of water before pointing at a woman in the second row.

“How does it feel to be back in Phoenix Wrestling, the company that played host to your shocking return to the ring back in April?”

“It’s always great to step through Phoenix Wrestling. It’s the only original Experts federation still standing, and that’s something they should be proud of, for sure,” he takes a deep breath, looking up at the ceiling and squinting a moment. “I think this is my fifth or sixth match in a Phoenix Wrestling ring, and I’m hoping to grow that number quite a bit through the course of this tournament.”

“This isn’t your first Iron King tournament. In fact, you competed in the tournament five years ago back in 2013, when you were in the prime of your career,” the woman continues. “What makes you think you’ll succeed now where you couldn’t in 2013, after coming off a two year retirement?”

“Wow, you guys don’t pull any punches, I forgot,” Rex chuckles, taking yet another sip of water to hide the nerves beginning to set in. “It might seem like 2013 was the prime of my career, but who’s to say really? I th-”

“I think that recent history is to say,” the reporter interrupts him. “You came into the qualifiers battle royale like a house of fire, and promptly choked in the second round of the World Cup. You lost a ladder match at the Experts Invitational to a wrestler who has been out of the ring even longer than you were. And you tapped out to your little brother, who is literally half your size.”

Rex clears his throat, his eyes growing wide as he nods a few times, letting her words sink in. His jaws are clearly beginning to tense, and that smirk that was hiding his anger earlier is nowhere to be found as he almost begins snarling.

“Listen, I’ve faced adversity throughout my whole career. After my professional debut, there was only one person who thought I had any remote chance at a future in this business. Time and time again I overcome the odds and prove people wrong. No one thought I was going to beat Brandon Garcia. No one thought I was going to beat Michael Norcia. I power through and I prove people wrong. It’s what I do in that ring. But the fact of the matter is, I don’t give a fuck what you think. I know I deserve to be in this tournament, and I’m going to prove all of you wrong once again when I bulldoze right through Carrick Price.”

There’s a pause as the journalists frantically scribble their quotes into their notepads, before one reporter near the back shouts out.

“Do you really think you’re going to bulldoze through Carrick Price?” The reporter’s voice sounds genuinely stunned. “He may have lost that fight you’re watching on your phone, but it was the first loss of his career-”

“I’m not trying to say it’s going to be a walk in the park,” Rex quickly interjects, glancing over at his opponent and shaking his head. “I fully understand how much fight this kid has and how difficult my first round match up is going to be. I didn’t mean to imply anything different with my word choice,” Rex laughs at the situation. “But I am going to win, and he will feel like he got hit by a bulldozer when I’m done with him.”

“We’re all aware of your recent track record, as was just listed off,” another journalist begins speaking, causing Rex’s shoulders to slump as he rolls his eyes. “What makes you so confident that you’re going to win? What have you been doing in response to those losses?”

“Yes, I just came out of a two-year retirement a few months ago. Yes, I’ve lost some matches since that comeback. But I’m in the best shape of my life. When I was in my ’prime’, I was wrestling on injuries that just kept stacking up higher and higher. I’m healthier now than I’ve ever been, physically and mentally. Has there been some evident ring rust since my return? Clearly. But since the day I got my spot in this tournament, I’ve been working. Not in the office, not in the studio. In the gym. In the ring. In the cage. I’ve been working with new coaches who can see my weaknesses and strengths with fresh eyes. I’ve been working with new sparring partners. I’ve been doing everything I can to get back to peak performance, and you’re going to be seeing a Rex Evans unlike any you’ve ever seen before in that cage. Bigger, better, and more brutal than ever. Just watch.”

Rex pushes the microphone away, leaning back in his chair as his jaws continue to tense. His arms are crossed to hide how tightly clenched his fists have become, as the journalists have clearly gotten under his skin, but he’s not letting them or anyone watching see it. His eyes - once again hidden behind the dark lenses of his sunglasses - have locked, instead, onto his opponent as the reporters avert their attention elsewhere.

[ktotheb]

Sitting on the right side of the dais and having remained quiet to this point as several of the other Iron King competitors field questions from the gathered press, ‘Heavy’ Chevy Blythe seems almost content to let the proceedings carry on without him. The hulking frame of the Alberta native is slouched low in his seat, occasionally spitting some chewing tobacco into a spare water bottle before setting it down again. On closer inspection one can note that the big man has got a rather angry welt along the left side of his neck, and the ring and pinky fingers on his left hand have been taped together.

REPORTER 1: Uh, excuse me there, Mister Blythe?

Hearing his name mentioned for the first time since his opponent Geno had mentioned him, Chevy’s eyebrows raise and he looks around for the source of the question, finding the woman with her hand raised he leans forward, resting his elbows on the table before him.

CHEVY BLYTHE: Yes’m?

Having been acknowledged the reporter checks the paper before her.

REPORTER 1: You’re one of the few freelancers to be taking part in the Iron King this year, but unlike some of your fellow freelancers such as Rex Evans, Raab or Sandy Makel, you’re kind of an unknown factor. Have you been involved in combat sports before? There’s very little information to go on where it concerns you.

Blythe scratches along his eyebrow, something of a shy grin playing on his face.

CHEVY BLYTHE: I’ve been in fights before, if that reassures y’any, but combat sports? Not… really, I guess is th’ truthful answer.

The reporter looks to ask for clarification but Blythe calmly holds a hand up to silence her.

CHEVY BLYTHE: I been in trainin’ for a while. First pro-wrestling, a feeder and school system for Sin City Wrestling called Fear n’ Loathin’ wrestling which is where I met ‘nother competitor in this tourney - Conor Blackburn - who was helpin’ run the joint. Place shut down ‘fore I could finish my trainin’ and make my debut. Been kinda floatin’ around since then, some independent bookings, some strongman competitions… some above board, mostly not. Ended up at the Zmei Nest camp ‘bout a year and a bit ago… so I think that officially, this bout with Geno is gonna be my debut, for all intents n’ purposes.

He digs the chewing tobacco from under his lip and puts it inside the bottle from earlier, as another reporter stands up.

REPORTER 2: So with that lack of experience, what made you think that something like the Iron King was the best place for you to make your debut, and exactly what do you consider your chances against a field that largely has far more experience than you?

A nervous chuckle leaves Chevy at that inquiry.

CHEVY BLYTHE: Puttin’ me on the spot here, eh?

He runs a hand through his hair, a long sigh leaving him as he takes a moment to consider his response.

CHEVY BLYTHE: I… guess my answer for joinin’ the IK18 is just, y’know, why the hell not? I’ve enjoyed an honest fight since long before I thought of pro-wrestlin’ or MMA. I couldn’t jus’ keep wipin’ out people in the local bar room scene or travelling for twenty bucks of gas money everytime I was booked to wrestle. Here, there’s all eyes on us, now what I gotta do is make n’ impression so I can get about actually bein’ something in this industry. As for chances?

Another chuckle.

CHEVY BLYTHE: Ya, I supposed I’m pretty far in the deep end on that one.

A third reporter comes to a stand.

REPORTER 3: Impressions on your first fight?

Chevy rubs his neck, wincing slightly as his hand comes in contact with the welt that’s there.

CHEVY BLYTHE: I wish it was a swang-n’-bang affair instead of a grappling only bout?

That gets a chuckle from the room.

CHEVY BLYTHE: Nah, seriously though I’m outta my comfort zone on this one. Thing is I knew that this tournament would force that point anyways so I just haveta roll with the punches… uh, not literally.

He holds up his hands and balls them into fists.

CHEVY BLYTHE: Just because this fight ain’t gonna be no slugfest means they ain’t gonna work to get the job done though. Zmei Nest’s base is Sambo, so luckily my coaches and teammates are well-versed in what I need t’get done to pull this fight out. I’ve been drilling takedowns and takedown defense, submissions, escapes… y’name it they’re putting their all into trying to prep me for it. Having seen the Forklift in action, I doubt this fight is gonna be pretty. Ain’t neither of us gonna be tryin’ to pull out flying armbars n’ I think we’d both rather stand a few feet apart an’ swing heavy lumber at one ‘nother instead-

Chevy nods over to where his upcoming opponent is seated.

CHEVY BLYTHE: -but I’m damn sure that we’re gonna give that crowd a fight to see.

The third reporter raises his hand again.

REPORTER 3: Being so close to the bout, do you think it’s a wise decision to have not tried to cover up the bruises from grappling or the fact that you’ve got some injuries from training?

That earns an arched brow.

CHEVY BLYTHE: If you’ve ever seen a fight gym where everyone isn’t trainin’ injured, I suggest y’take a picture of it for posterity…

That gets another laugh from the crowd. Chevy raises his bandaged fingers up to show everyone, then likewise pulls the collar of his shirt slightly down to reveal even more welts and bruising.

CHEVY BLYTHE: … all told I’m not all that worried ‘bout Geno knowing I’m hurt. I guarantee there’s a few scrapes and bumps on him ain’t feelin’ none too pleasant either. It’s somethin’ I learned quickly just trainin’ for this industry, that you don’t slow down ‘cuz your leg’s swollen or your neck hurts, you get used to it, y’learn to appreciate the motivation that pain can give. Hopefully I’m good ‘nough at handlin’ it that come then end of night 2, I’m moving onto the next round.

Reporter 3 sits down leaving Chevy to look around the room to see if there were any more inquiries for him. Not spotting any he digs out his tin of chewing tobacco before sitting back in his chair, letting the questions turn to one of the other competitors in the Iron King.

[Mandi Andrew]

Mandi Andrew looks out at the reporters knowing her turn to answer questions was coming up. She smiles sweetly, knowing she was in a good place right now after having retained the Duos titles along with her husband. She waits as a reporter stands up.

Reporter: Mandi how does it feel going into a singles match against Anastasia Starling?

Mandi: Honestly I am looking forward to it. Anastasia is an amazing wrestler, full of talent. If anything, facing her will be a good test for me while sticking to only grappling. She will be tough to face, but I know I can go out there and do a great job against her.

Reporter #2: Are you happy that they have you in a different bracket than your husband?

Mandi lightly smiles, as she nods her head yes.

Mandi: In a lot of ways, yes I am. Don't get me wrong, I would not back down from facing him. That is not here, nor there. My main focus is Anastasia. I know I need to beat her in order to move on.

Reporter #3: Do you think you can beat Anastasia Starling? We mostly see you in tag matches with Chris.

Mandi thinks about it, as she nods.

Mandi: I do think I can, it will take a long but I know I could. It is two champions facing each other, I am willing to do all I can to win. I am sure though some others would like you to ask them some questions. One last thing, Anastasia Starling I am looking forward to facing you.


#OOC Quick but its something

[The Fin and Twin Connection!]

The Fin is in great shape best shape he will beat Ernest Coldwell and you will see that today in press conference Fin don't like sitting around he has add so he shout in mic

Fin: Hey I need question !

Five guys with mics stand and wave hand

Fin: You guy first guy !

First guy smile and rock fist

Reporter: Fin you are great wrestler best wrestler ever from Finland you fight Ernest Coldwell in big time match up what you do ?

Fin: I deliver Finnish Hammer 123 then people no talk about Ernest Coldwell no more

Reporter: But match is grappling only

Fin: Oh man ! Oh well I am more well know wrestler no one know who Ernest Coldwell is

Reporter: He is very famous wrestler and MMA fighter and he is good with submissions

Fin: No way !

Reporter: Yes way

Fin: No way !

Reporter: Yeah bro he real good and tough what you do ?

Fin: I fight him good fight him hard fight him my best and show off how good of wrestler I am

Reporter: I vote for you Fin you can do this !

Fin throw up fist

Fin: Hell yeah bro !

Another guy get chosen

Reporter: You say 2018 is Fin year what you do to do that ?

Fin thinks hard

Fin: A lot bro a lot first world cup then i get bachelor's degree from phoenix university then i get iron king it will be great !

Reporter: No further questions

Fin: Yes please no further questions I did not know this about Ernest Coldwell ! I must study

Fin pulls out cellphone and looks up Ernest on youtube and his eyes get big

[Jackson Felix Coltrane]

Jackson Felix Coltrane sat there, quiet, as reporter after reporter stood up to ask the wrestlers and MMA fighters in this tournament questions. He knew this would happen. He knew he would get looked over and why not? He’s not a big egomaniacal superstar, and he’s also not one of the dozen bad ass bitches in this tournament either. It did not surprise him. He made his debut at Under the Coliseum Lights 7 last month in a dark match that hardly anyone watched or payed any attention to. He faced someone that was probably plucked off the street, a local backyard wrestler perhaps. Someone that in all honesty, probably had more wrestling experience then he did. None of these reporters even know his name, he guessed.

His head was full of doubt. But doubt hasn’t been something that has ever stopped him before.

Jackson Felix Coltrane or “JFC” as he is known sits there at his press conference table. His hair is messy, his face glistening as if he just got here sweaty from a workout. He sits there, not really trying to make eye contact with his opponent, Tyberius King, but just not being able to help it. Everything about the dude just screams “I’M BETTER THAN YOU!!!” from where he sits calmly. The man is success. He is everything that Jackson hopes he can become one day. He has been trying so hard to keep himself calm on the outside, when it feels like a fucking field of butterflies is having an orgy in his stomach.

Another reporter stands up to ask a question. A young Hispanic woman with a notepad and pen in her hand.

“Yeah, umm… Jackson Felix Coltrane, do you have any wrestling experience let alone any MMA experience?”

JFC was loose and laid back in his seat waiting for the first question to be directed to him. He nearly jumps out of his seat and spills his water bottle all over his lap when it happened. This got a few laughs from the reporters and more than a few from his fellow wrestlers on stage with him.

Jackson tries desperately to clean up the mess as he answers the question. “MMA experience? None whatsoever. Wrestling experience? Other then my pro debut at Under the Coliseum Lights last month, just a few matches in indy federations down in Phoenix. But does that really matter? I’ve been in fights. I’ve kicked some guys asses before. That’s what wrestling is right? Fighting?”

The reporter scoffs as she continues, “Okay, just to follow up with that, Mr. Coltrane why would you enter a tournament where you have absolutely no idea of its rules and how to conduct yourself in the match?”

Jackson shakes his head and tosses the rag he used to clean up the water aside. “Listen lady, do you think Martin Luther only had one dream? No, he had many. It just turned out the one we know about was the biggest one. This is mine. You have to start somewhere. As far as I know, anyone who was on Phoenix Wrestling’s roster at the time of the tournament was automatically entered in. That included me. And as far as the match itself, what is it? Grappling? Come on, how hard can it be. I know enough about grappling to know how to get my opponent into the position I want him in so I can inflict as much injury to him as I can. It’s submission. Submissions are fun once you figure out a way to put your opponent into one. I will figure it out.”

The reporter nods her head, scribbling down what Jackson says on her notepad. “I see. Speaking of your opponent, Tyberius King, he is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Judo black belt. How are you up for this challenge?”

Jackson takes a deep breath and leans forward to the microphone, “In all honesty,” he begins. “I’m fucking nervous. All jokes aside tonight, this guy sitting across from me,” he looks over at Tyberius, “demands a lot of respect when he enters a room, a ring, a woman.”

This gets a few laughs from the audience of reporters. The females in the room just shake their head.

“Okay, okay, okay. I’m done with the jokes. But for real, I can learn from this man. I respect him greatly. I haven’t been in this business long enough to know who the best wrestlers are, but I do know he is among them. I might get my ass kicked, but I’m going to have fun doing so. I wouldn’t mind grabbing a beer with Tyberius after this is over, if he is down.”

Jackson looks over to Tyberius, who just smiles. The young Hispanic woman nods her head and sits down. Jackson thinks he is done with questions when another reporter pops up from his chair, male, brown suit and pink tie.

“Hey JFC, Brian Gonzales here with WrestleTalk Daily. What can you tell us you have done to prepare for this match with Tyberius King?”

Jackson laughs to himself before he speaks. “Well Brian, you know what? I’m not going to bore you here by telling you I’ve been jumping rope, going swimming, fucking pushing my grandma in her wheelchair up a hill. I’ve been studying. I’ve been doing my due diligence as I’m sure we all have. This is the Iron King Tournament. This is where my career in professional wrestling begins. I’m doing my best. I’m taking this seriously.”

Brian nods his head, as if he understood what is at stake in the tournament. “What will you do if you win?” he asks.

“If I win…” Jackson pauses, “If I win I will count my lucky stars and know that I just got away with highway robbery by beating one of the best in the game. Then I will enjoy it and move on to focusing my attention to the pankration round of the tournament.”

“And if you lose?”

Jackson takes a deep breath, “If I lose… I will at least take some comfort in knowing that the better man won. And I’ll be rooting for Tyberius to win this whole damn thing. You hear that Tyberius? I’ll be rooting for you.”

“Thanks.” The reporter says as he sits back down.

Jackson leans back into his chair and cracks his knuckles. He feels much more better with his part of the press conference over. And it seems all the talking he did made him confident. He knew his parents will be watching. His mom rooting for him of course, a dirty martini in hand. His father… not so much.

[Rowyn Starr]

The oppresive heat inside the auditorium cloaked Rowyn Starr like a thick blanket. Sitting at a table between Lance Winters and Anastasia Starling, his gaze wandered out through the gathered throng of reporters and photographers sitting below the stage, not really seeing them as they took turns standing up and directing their questions toward his fellow competitors. The crack of an aluminum bat against a fast-pitched baseball rang in his ears as his mind drifted back to Little League and Babe Ruth League practice sessions under the blazing hot sun that made up a healty portion of his childhood summers growing up in the shadows of the Great Smoky Mountains. He wandered through those memories, trying to find a day that compared to the baking sauna of the Arena Monterrey with little success.

Rowyn caught sight of a few white and yellow notepads scattered throughout the audience below him doubling as hand-held fans. A stolen glance out of the corner of his eye toward his fellow Iron King competitors was the only assurance that he was where he was supposed to be and that he'd not wandered into an old-time summer gospel revival by mistake. Two seats down, beats of sweat gleamed on the forehead of The Fin-Isher as he polished off a bottle of water and added the empty vessel to a growing stack of plastic containers on the table in front of him. No presperation was visible on the features of the PW Rebith Champion. To Rowyn, Anastasia seemed to glow in spite of the thick cresting temperature that seemed to invade his mouth and nostrils. The gel packs he'd placed in the front pockets of his slacks and the pockets of his sport coat were the only thing that kept him from matching Fin for empty water bottles. Rowyn reached into the right pocket of the gray sport coat he wore with his suit and gripped the pack he'd placed there. The chilling sensation in his hand temporarily drove the heat away and gave him an uncomfortable repreive from its misery.

The tournament ahead would bring its own heat to everyone seeking claim to the title of Iron King or Iron Queen. All thirty-two talents, Rowyn included, would be beaten and tempered in the tournament's fiery forge and furance. One of them would emerge as the tournament champion, forged true and tried, strong as the iron from which the competition took its name from, while the others among them would crumble, warp, or shatter in the trials by hammer and fire about to come. The mettle for some of them would be strong and shapable, but only one would be strong enough.

Rowyn exhaled as he sat up in his chair, thinking about his first challenge. No road to becoming Iron King would be easy given the talent level of this year's entrants, but to face a friend to start the quest felt tougher than facing a known foe or an unfamiliar opponent. As the press conference moderator asked for the next question from the media, Rowyn put his warring emotions down with a gulp of water from his water bottle and looked out toward the audience of journalists.

Fernando Gauviera: I'm Fernando Gauvire, with the Monterrey Chronicle and my question is for Rowyn Starr. Rowyn, first of all, what do you think your chances are of winning the Iron King Tournament?

A pause as Rowyn digests the question, but a small smile creeps across his face in the process.

Rowyn: Well.....I don't have a crystal ball right in front of me so it's hard to tell.

A murmuring of laughter can be heard throughout the room at this.

Rowyn: I think my chances are as good of winning the Iron King as anyone sitting here at these tables. If you were to ask me if I had to pick someone other than myself to win it all, I don't know if I could give you a clear answer. The talent in this year's tournament is just as good, if not better, than any of the previous Iron King events. On any given day, anyone sitting up here has a chance of beating anyone sitting up here.

Fernando: Do you have a gameplan for the tournmanet as a whole?

Rowyn: Just a simple plan. Fight within the match styles to the best of my abilities and keep advancing forward until I win the tournament or someone else makes me stop.

Fernando nods and sits down. Another reporter stands up, a young man with wire-rimmed glasses.

Tim Rexrode: I'm Tim Rexrode with the Asheville Herald-Citizen. Rowyn, your first opponent is Richard Roque, someone you've recently become friends with since your return to active competition. What are your feelings about this and will the outcome of this match affect your friendship going forward?

Rowyn glances over at Richard, giving him a nod of respect and a smile.

Rowyn: It's not a happy feeling knowing that this match will be a one-and-done for one of us. Speaking from past Iron King experience, it's harder when you face a friend instead of someone you have antipathy with. When I returned to stand against Mason Daniels and his pulpit members, Richard was one of the first members of the roster to reach out because he'd had similar problems with Mason and he understood what I'd went through last year. We've gotten to know each other well and our friendship isn't a secret. But we're both professionals and we know what's at stake. When we meet for our match, we're competitiors first, friends second and to be otherwise would be unfair to each other and our audience. Win or lose, Richard and I will still be friends and I hope we will be friends for many years to come.

Another reporter stands up, this one a female brunette with her hair done up in a beehive hairdo.

Sonia Upton: I'm Sonia Upton, with Ultimate Fighting Quarterly. Rowyn, both you and Richard are experienced in technical wrestling. Based on your style, what do you feel is your biggest weakness going into this match against someone with a similar skillset?

A silence falls over the room as Rowyn ponders the question given to him. Moments later, he speaks.

Rowyn: I'd have to say that my biggest weakness would be my speed. Grappling tends to favor a slow pace, but you still have to be aware of where you are and be able to react quickly to what an opponent attempts to do in that kind of match style. It's not something you can really train to be good at because those reactions are instinct more so than skill. Based on my last match, I'm going to have to be better at reacting to whatever Richard throws at me when we wrestle.

Sonia: How well do you think you will match up against Richard over there?

Rowyn looks over at Richard, sizing him up. The two share a grin in the process before Rowyn looks back at the reporter.

Rowyn: On paper, I'd say we're equal in terms of technical wrestling. But take a close look at the Richard Roque I see sitting there and you'll see a man who knows how to get the most out of his body in terms of power and strength. He's done it so well that he's made a successful business of helping people do the same for their own bodies. In terms of power and weight, he's got the advantage over me. What he said about trying to keep me down....he's extremely capable of being able to do that. I won't be able to afford any mistakes and I'm going to have to be faster than him all around if I expect to be able to make him submit.

Another woman with straight blonde hair stands up as Sonia sits down.

Kimbra Wilder: I'm Kimbra Wilder with the Evansville Daily Sun. Rowyn, are you worried that after what happened at Under The Coliseum Lights with the members of Mason's Pulpit that they might try to interject themselves in the match?

A frown crosses Rowyn's face. A similar look can be seen on Richard's face as well.

Rowyn: I would hope not. I can't speak for Richard, but I want this match to be a clinic in what grappling should be and I don't want it tainted by any outside interference. If they make the mistake of crashing our match, any punishment that Seth Black sees fit to give them would pale compared to what the two of us will do to them.

A right hand clenched around a half-empty water bottle was the only sign of Rowyn's indigance at the thought of his match with Richard being tarnished.

Rowyn: I've fought in different places around the world since I've been a part of Phoenix Wrestling, but this is the first time I've ever had a chance to wrestle in Mexico. It's a country that's gifted the wrestling business with the luchador style of fighting and now Richard and I have a chance to give something back by putting on the best grappling match we can. And we don't need the members of the Pulpit sticking their noses in what we trying to accomplish.

Kimbra: Your notions heading into this first match in the Iron King tournament are noble. All the best luck in the world to you going into this match.

Rowyn: Thank you very much. I'll do my very best.

As the reporters turn their questions to the next competitor, Rowyn looks down at his left hand with a melancholy expression on his face. With his right thumb, he gives the golden band on his ring finger a soft caress and turns his attention to the remainder of the press conference.

[turdferguson]

#1 Contender for the Rebirth Championship Frisky D has been enjoying the presser thus far with her feet kicked up on her part of the table, leaning back on her chair with her hat tilted to the side. She almost falls over after being caught off guard by someone calling her name, but catches herself. Holding her hands up, she exclaims.

Frisky D: I’m okay! I’m okay.

A chuckle goes up through press row before the reporter finally gets a chance to ask his question.

Reporter #1: Bob Thomas here from Combat Sports Inc. Frisky, there’s been some mixed opinions from members of the Phoenix roster about taking part in the Iron King tournament. What are your feelings, what does the opportunity mean to you, and how do you feel about landing in the grappling part of the bracket to start out?

The Canadian scratches her chin.

Frisky D: Yikes, that’s a loaded one. Uh, lemme try to go through those one at a time.

She starts counting on her fingers to keep track of where she is.

Frisky D: Listen, I mean this might not be everyone’s bag, and I can sort of get that. I’m not like, an MMA person either or a big fight fan, bloodsport type or whatever. Like I don’t mind scrapping, I played hockey growing up, but I got into wrestling because I’m a risk taker, I love doing crazy shit-- you know? But the thing is, I mean stepping outside your comfort zone is part of what this job is, right? You wanna be the best, this is what you have to do, and it’s part of what my whole M.O. thing has been. I step into situations where I look over my head and I find a way to get it done most of the time.


A short nod.

Frisky D: And this is a deal where people outside the company are signing up to be a part of it. That’s got some prestige, right? So how can you not be pretty pumped about being part of this. And to be honest about the grappling only stip part--

She checks how many points she’s counted off on her fingers.

Frisky D: -- I kinda didn’t know how that worked until a couple days ago. Like don’t get me wrong, I know what grappling is, but there’s still different aspects of it. I mean I’ve worked on my submissions for my matches I’ve had against Nina, trying to be able to hold my own in that area, but from what I’m told a lot of other pro wrestling type stuff goes in this environment. Pin attempts, stuff like that, so I’m not gonna be too out of my comfort zone. I’ll just armdrag the CRAP out of Frankie if that’s what it takes.

Another reporter raises their hand.

Reporter #2: You have a lot of bad history with Frankie, how does that affect your mindset going in?

She shrugs.

Frisky D: I mean he’s kind of a dick, but it takes a lot for me to actually hate someone, I’ll be good.

Reporter #2: It doesn’t even bother you that he’s saying he’s not going to try that hard, and he could beat you if he was going to go 100%?

Frisky chuckles under her breath.

Frisky D: Listen, that’s how he is, I’d be more thrown off if he wasn’t saying some insulting stuff. And honestly, with him being the slick talker of a group that isn’t exactly known for being on the up and up? He could be taking the easy way out, but it could also be a little of column A. a little of column B. Like he could easily be in kind of rough shape so he can’t do all he plans to be able to, but he’s saying what he is to make me think it’ll be an easy match. Try to catch me off guard with something, you know? But I pretty much think of myself as the underdog in most matches because I’m not the most polished, I’m not the most technical, so I’m viewing this as another one where I’ll fight from underneath if I have to.

Another reporter raises their hand.

Reporter #3: Raj Giri from Wrestling Inc. here, speaking of being in rough shape, can you give us a status update on your injuries suffered at UTCL?

Frisky D: Uhhh, they hurt?

That draws a few laughs before she continues.

Frisky D: Other than that, I dunno, I’m all good. Being banged up is part of the life, no different than any other day. Anything else?

She looks around the room.

Frisky D: Alright, sweet, should be fun.

She flashes a peace sign and the cameras cut elsewhere in the room.

[laflare]

While everyone was talking the President of the infamous biker gang Reapers In Pride and current PW Rising Phoenix Champion Lance Winters sat back in his chair with his feet on table all while enjoying himself a cold beer. He laughed at some ot the things said or just at the people in the crowd in general. When it came to the Rising Phoenix’s turn to he burped pretty loud then sat straight in his chair so that he could look at the crowd accordingly.  

LANCE WINTERS 

Weeeellllllll BEFORE WE START can somebody fetch me another BEER? MMKAAAYY thanks.  

Someone part of the PW crew staff runs over and tosses Lance a beer. He cracks it up open and takes a quick swig.  

LANCE WINTERS  

Alright now where were we? OH YEAH. WHO has SOME QUESTIONS for me huh? HUH? Don’t be afraid KIDDIES I DON’T bite.  

A reporter stands to speak but Lance cuts her off.  

LANCE WINTERS 

Alright SHUT UP BITCH I DIDN’T tell you to speak yet. I just wanna HOLD UP THIS BEER to the pudgefuckit down there. OLD MAN RAAB. I’M SOOOOOO HONORED that he acknowledged HOW SHORT OF A TIME it took for me to become CHAMPION here in Phoenix Wrestling as a WRASSLER. Man I DIDN’T KNOW THIS WAS MY FIRST TIME in a ring and IT TOOK ME SO SHORT OF A TIME to finally win me some GOOD OL fashioned GOLD.  

Winters grins as he holds up his beer.  

REPORTER 1 

But...We know that isn’t true.  

LANCE WINTERS 

WHO SAID that?! HUH?! WHICH ONE OF YOU slobknobbers said that?! HOW DARE YOU DISCREDIT THE KNOWLEDGE of Pudgefuckit Raab! Here I am TRYING TO HONOR THE man’s EXPERT ANALYSIS and RESEARCH SKILLS about little OL ME and you people want to be RUDE. GOSH. Shut the hell up WILL YOU?!  

Lance shakes his head and looks back down at Raab.  

LANCE WINTERS 

THIS ONE IS FOR YOU pudgefuckit!  

He now chugs the beer and burps.  

LANCE WINTERS 

Alright...I’m gonna need another beer JUST SO i can actually answer you GUYS AND GIVE A FLYING you know WHAT.  

Again the crew member runs over and tosses Lance a beer.  

LANCE WINTERS 

Okay….NOW ASK your questions you COCK MONGLER you.  

The woman looks around a bit confused and ashamed but she asks her question anyways.  

REPORTER 1 

We know that what Raab said about you wasn’t exactly true when it comes to your past. You’ve be wrestling for a few years now and have seen success both back in Hard Knox Wrestling where you and your fellow Reaper brethren have made names for yourselves away from the...criminal activities you all may be known for. With already having success here in PW do you think you’d be able to win this tournament through and through?  

As he drinks his beer Lance couldn’t help but check the lady out as she spoke.  

LANCE WINTERS 

You got some NICE LIPS you know that?  

REPORTER 1 

Excuse me? 

LANCE WINTERS 

I bet they’d LOOK BETTER wr-- 

REPORTER 1 

Sir, can you please answer the question.  

Winters smirks and chuckles. 

LANCE WINTERS 

Oooohhhh...Feisty. I LIKE IT. OKAY FINE. Well for beginners I could give a DAMN about whatever SUCCESS I’VE had here or there. I just wanna HAVE MY FUN and hurt somebody that may OR MAY NOT deserve a little bit of a beating. Gets the juices flowing YA KNOW? THIS pudgefuckit may bet an idiot and not KNOW HIS LEFT from his RIGHT but who am I to judge? I don’t give much of a shit about him like I do the rest of these TESTI GAAGGGLERS.  

He says while looking at the other competitors.  

LANCE WINTERS 

QUITE FRANKLY, why should they? WHY SHOULD I DAMNIT? We’re all here JUST TRYNA BECOME IRON KING or Queen. I’m not here to COMPLIMENT any of them. I don’t have shit to really say TO DO SO. If they really wanna MAKE IT WORTH MY WHILE I’d ask these cunts to FLASH MY THEIR titties before they PUNCH me in my jaw. You know? Get my dick hard first a little right? I’d sure say this though...I sure hope James advances so I CAN MAKE HIM MY pretty little bitch again. Hell...I MIGHT EVEN give him another chance at my TITLE if he does.  

Winters winks to the camera.  

REPORTER 2 

Speaking of James Edwards. After Under The Coliseum Lights 7 went off air, James Edwards took to Twitter to say he was going to kill you. What is YOUR response to that?  

Lance holds up his beer before taking another swig.  

LANCE WINTERS 

MANY HAVE TRIED...And many have failed. What I have to say to THAT IS...James should go visit their GRAVES to ask them how it went. That’s if he CAN FIND them, tehehehahaha!  

The reportes cringed at this as Lance continued to drink.  

REPORTER 3 

Lance, this year’s Iron King Tournament features some mixed martial artists from PW’s fellow World Crown Syndicate promotion which is WCS’ one and only MMA promotion in Caged Glory FC. In fact your right hand man Joey Perrello is a member of the promotion and is also a former champion in a past MMA promotion. Recently another one of your high ranking members in Viktor Volkov has joined another upcoming MMA promotion in Union GP. With all of these mixed martial artists coming to participate in this year’s tournament did you get any advice from Perello or Volkov at all on how to deal with them?  

Winters laughs.  

LANCE WINTERS 

No, what the fuck FOR? Huh? ALL THIS TALK ABOUT MMA this and MMA that. Who gives a flying fuck. JUST COME AND FIGHT ME damnit. Let’s knock each other senseless. LET’S roll around and tear each other limb from limb. The hell do I care about somebody with some fucking MMA training. I MEAN SURE my BOYS ARE professional fighters these days. BUT WHAT IN THE FUCK does that have to do with me? Not a damn thing. You fucks step up to ME LOOKING FOR A FIGHT then that’s EXACTLY what the hell you’re gonna get.  

He takes another wig.  

LANCE WINTERS 

If YOU’RE tough enough OR EVEN brave enough to STAND TOE TO TOE with a son of a bitch LIKE ME then hey...You’re on the RIGHT TRACK of me respecting ya.  

REPORTER 4 

Being that you are the reigning PW Rising Phoenix Champion, do you hope to win this tournament and perhaps challenge for the PW Rebirth Championship afterwards? Or do you even plan one maybe securing one of the WCS championships in the future? 

Lance shrugs his shoulders as he drinks.  

LANCE WINTERS 

I don’t fucking care man, HAHA. I’m just here TO KICK SOME ASS, GRAB SOME ASS and maybe even pick up some GOLD or two when I actually want it. IF YOU ACTUALLY know HOW I DO things YOU’D know just WHAT IN THE BLUE HELL I do and DON’T DO. What I care about and WHAT I DON’T care about. AS OF RIGHT NOW I’m just a son of a bitch that LIKES KICKING fuckers PISS on themselves when they FIND OUT THEY GOTTA go up AGAINST ME and I end up DOING JUST THAT under ten minutes. IT’S A REAL test for me right now. And I just so happen to WIN ME SOME GOLD in the process of ME COMING HERE. Ain’t that some shit?  

He laughs.  

LANCE WINTERS 

I was just COMING DOWN HERE to spread us out in this little BUSINESS and shit. Got me A SOUVENIR for my troubles. Maybe one day I WILL BE REBIRTH CHAMPION, but I ain’t striving for it or anything.  

REPORTER 5 

You say you aren’t striving to be PW Rebirth Champion then why...Why exactly are you in this year's tournament, Lance? 

LANCE WINTERS 

Well I’M A MAN OF MY WORD...I got a contract to UPHELD. I am a CHAMPION of this place for FUCKS sake. AAANNNNDDDDDDDD I get see a little bitch TREMBLE when they SEE who they’re going up against. Including hearing some dumb soundbites from people who don’t EXACTLY KNOW who their going up against. It’s A FUN TIME HERE IN IRON KING wooo! And wouldn’t it piss people off to see a REAPER win this thing? Hell, little ol Sophie El was crying her eyes out when she SEEN THE BIG BAD REAP come to town for whatever reason.  

Lance laughs.  

LANCE WINTERS 

I just CAN’T STOP but wonder how it would sound or look like if I WAS TO ACTUALLY win this thing. People always have such a problem WHEN one of us win something. It cracks me up honestly. Like I CAN’T WAIT for people to have a CRY BABY FIT when Volkov wins a belt over in Union GP, like he’s not supposed to be ALLOWED to win a damn thing. Like OH MY GOSH THE WORLD is going to FUCKING END!!! HAHAHehehehehehHAHAHOHOHOhahahahTEHEHEHE! 

[carrickprice]

Press conferences were something that Carrick had truly began to embrace in his growth as a mixed martial artist. Now, it was true that he didn’t have the eloquence of many of the professional wrestlers who spent the majority of their lives talking trash on social media and in public forums. But in some ways that made the young Irishman all that much more genuine. His unfiltered, raw takes and his brutal honesty, paired with an immense confidence in himself had won him a substantial number of fans, as well as a good many detractors as well. He supposed that was all part of the business.

It was madness, and chaos, all mixed together in one glorious affair that left the Caged Glory fighter with a wide grin on his face. These were the sort of moments that he had learned to thrive in both inside and outside of the cage. But the Iron King tournament was an entirely different animal, and so when the reporters turned their questions to him his smile slowly faded and he cleared his throat, readying himself for the bevy of inquiries that were certain to come his way. Finally, amidst the mass of journalists, one man was called on to direct his question toward Carrick.

“Carrick, there’s no question you’re one of the rising stars on the Caged Glory roster. In the last year you’ve gone from being a complete unknown to being a staple of the Slaughterhouse family. What do you attribute that to?”

Nodding his head, it was a softball question and he knew it. But it was designed, he was certain, to ease him into a better line of sight for the firing squad of reporters who would ask their questions after.

“Jason Jackson. I attribute where I am today to that lad. Otherwise I’d just be another Irish kid in Belfast who loves to fight but doesn’t get much of a chance to do shite with it. Don’t know what he saw in me, but I’m grateful that he did. Otherwise I wouldn’t be sittin’ here with you lot listenin to that lad down there talkin’ about how he’s going to bulldoze me.”

Glancing down in the direction of Rex Evans, Carrick smirked.

“You know I’m taken right lad? And even if I wasn’t, you’re not exactly my type. A bit to hairy and in need of a showers. Fucks sake”

His cheek settled him in as a smattering of laughter in response to Carricks insinuation followed shortly after the words were spoken. A moment later the next reporter spoke, this time challenging him with a much more difficult question.

“All jokes aside, Mister Price..”

“Nah, none of that Mister shite. That’s me pa. Or my older brudder. Carricks good enough for me.”

“Alright then, Carrick. All joking aside, Rex Evans is a proven, veteran grappler. What makes you think you believe yourself capable of moving on after tonight?”

Leaning forward on the table in front of him, Carrick rested his forearms on the cloth covered surface and did his best to look the man who had asked him the question directly in the eyes.

“To be honest lad, I don’t know. I’m mostly focused on Neveah Thompson this friday, ya understand? Nothing against Phoenix Wrestling or this tournament, but this shite isn’t me livelihood. Fightin’... real, honest to god fightin. That’s what I love to do. Don’t get me wrong now, fella. I’ll out grapple anyone in this fuckin’ room with me eyes closed and one hand on me willie. But that’s no guarantee that everything will go my way Tuesday night. If ya think I’m going to risk me health in some shite town in Mexico on Tuesday, when I’ve got a statement fight at my place of employment in fuckin’ Japan this Friday. Well, you’re out of your mind.”

That was enough to set all of the reporters in the room ablaze, as hands suddenly shot up left and right. Voices mingled with one another and all Carrick could do was laugh. They never did know what to do when someone was just brutally honest with them. Others, like his sister, might kill themselves getting from one side of the planet to the other in a day or two, and then wrestle and get back on an airplane all over again. But that wasn’t Carrick. He was a pinpoint, precision fighter. And while the Iron King tournament was prestigious and it offered opportunity, he wasn’t going to lie to them and tell them it was the number one priority on his list.

“You don’t find that a little… dangerous?”

Scoffing, Carrick’s eyebrows furrowed as he looked at the woman who had asked the most recent question curiously.

“The fuck is dangerous about anything I just said?”

“Well, the fact that you basically just said you aren’t focused on Rex Evans.”

Immediately, Carrick held up his hand and cut the woman off.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa. Lass. I didn’t say I wasn’t focused on this lad. I said he’s not my top priority. I can walk and breathe at the same time, ya know? I heard everything he said. I’ve seen shite he’s done before. Two year retirement. Best shape of his life. Blah. Blah. Blah. Let me explain something to you, love…”

He paused, briefly, for the purpose of collecting his thoughts before breaking things down for her.

“It never mattered what name they put across from mine on this card. It didn’t. I’ve spent fifteen years of my fuckin life training, working, eating, sleeping and breathing this shite. My focus is on a woman who has been training for this style of fighting, not that flippy shite the pro wrestling lot like to do, but legitimate grappling, for years. So when I say my focus isn’t on Rex Evans because he’s coming off a two year retirement, whatever the fuck that means, and is supposedly in the best shape of his life? It’s not meant as an insult. It’s meant as a statement of fact. That lad could be Jesus Christ himself and it wouldn’t fuckin matter. Two years off, out of the ring. Out of the cage. I don’t give a shite who you are there’s rust. There’s an adjustment period. And I’m not the type of lad to sit around and let anyone adjust. Don’t believe me? Ask Zion Rogers. Ask Byron McCall.”

Questions began to fly but again, Carrick silenced the crowd and took control of the press conference while its focus was on him.

“See, that’s the arrogance of a professional wrestler. It bleeds through into everything they do. Have ya paid attention to the news at all surrounding my profession lately? All these cunts that have never stepped in a cage in their life suddenly think they’ve got what it takes to hang with men and women who have devoted their lives to this craft. They think because they spent a few years in high school with some sweaty fuckin leotard and a special olympics helmet slapped on their head that they can waltz in here and teach us a lesson.”

Irritation was beginning to shine through. Gone was the joking and smirking man who had stood before them a few minutes prior. Instead this was a passionate Carrick Price, determined to hammer his point home at all costs.

“Here’s the rude fucking awakening every single one for. I spend nearly every waking moment of my life dedicated to this craft. I’m not out here smiling for sponsors. I’m not out here doing radio interviews, or posing for used car ads. I want ta fight. I want ta win. And when the second night of this tournament is all said and done. There’s not gonna be any bulldozerd feelings. There’s gonna be a carcass lying front and center, picked clean by the lion of Belfast fuckin Ireland.”

Taking a deep breath, Carrick finally leans back in his chair and calms down just a touch.

“It’s nothing personal. Just business. I’m sure you’ll bounce back, though. That’s what you wrestling lot do. Lose a shite ton and brush it off like it’s nothing. But Rex…”

Once more the smirk came back.

“This one’s going to be one you’ll never fuckin forget.”

Crossing his arms across his chest, Carrick signalled that he was done. But then, just before the press conference could move on, Carrick leaned forward and spoke again.

“Don’t none of you cunts go telling me ma about my language neither. And ma, if you’re watchin this at home, I’m sorry.”

More laughter erupted from the reporters as Carrick’s light hearted nature returned to him just as he let the event move on to the next person.

[ernie]

Current Union Battleground Battalion Champion, Death Trip Wrestling Tornado Rules Champion, and one-half of the ultra crowd-pleasing tag team, The Outliers -- Ernie Cauldwell was no stranger to the invasive, searing bright lights of high profile press conferences; he had been a part many over the past couple years. But, this was the first one for a promotion outside his beloved CGFC. The introverted grappler didn't crave this particular formality of the fight game, in fact, he despised it, but for competition's sake, he did his best to endure it.

Wearing a flat brim DEATHWISH Skateboards snapback and repping a Helio Gracie "Jiu Jitsu Forever" t-shirt, Cauldwell hung his head in silence in an attempt to better focus in on the presser flow and participant responses. Through the discord, Carrick Price concludes and the insatiable journalists quickly direct their attention toward the CGFC Glory Championship number one contender.

Eagerly lifting an Ipad into the air like a ticket at a deli, a reporter locks eyes with Ernie, wasting no time to initiate..

PRESS PASS: Right up front and to your left, Mr. Cauldwell!

Small in stature and unassuming in nature, the fighter nods, folds his arms, and slouches back in his chair.

CAULDWELL: Ernie.

PRESS PASS: Ryan Denson, South of the border for MMA Mania. Thank you! Of course! Ernie, to those in the know, you're entry was a bit of a surprise, as you aren't a guy known for competing in tournaments regularly. Why Phoenix Wrestling's Iron King?

Taking a moment, Cauldwell nods and clears his throat before pulling the mic closer.

CAULDWELL: Right. Well, with wrestling, for sure. It's all about that tag team religion, I don't do shit without my partner. But whether it's professional wrestling or MMA, I've always been outspoken about being a fan, first and foremost. And that's the case here. Been diggin' on Phoenix Wrestling for a good long minute now, and with Iron King delving into the world of mixed martial arts this year, I thought it was a perfect opportunity. Tons of talent. That and competing under the variety of stipulations really lit a fire under me, you know? I'm fuckin' stoked for all of it.

Making quick notes, the reporter buries his head in his handheld before coming up for another inquiry.

PRESS PASS: Fantastic! And as fans, we're certainly looking forward to it! Now, you've got the biggest fight of your career just around the corner when you Main Event Caged Glory: Emergence against MMA legend, Niko Holst for his Glory Championship. Were you at all reluctant signing on with the date of that fight and these Iron King Tournament dates being so close together? All possibilities considered, you didn't find it a tad too risky?

Ernie smirks as he lifts his hat and scratches the stubble of his shaved temple. After ruffling his matted mohawk, he casually proceeds..

CAULDWELL: Biggest fuckin' fight of the ol' career, indeed, my guy. You nailed it. Obviously, all the shit you're mentioning has occurred to me, for sure; injuries, straight up exhaustion. They're all real factors in this. Let's just hope none of it comes into play, right? I'm up for it, you know, or I wouldn't be sitting here. Up to this point, I've been pretty blessed as far as injuries go, so, I'm hoping for the best and I've prepared for the best. Competing at the highest level? Most of it's mental, you follow? Cause physically you can train yourself to do just about anything, but if you're not fuckin' prepared up here...

In signature Sawtooth demeanor -- deadpan and soft spoken -- Ernie begins repeatedly jabbing his index finger into his forehead; providing a bit of levity and eliciting laughter from throughout the room.

CAULDWELL: You can be in the best shape of your life, but none of it's gonna mean fuck all if you ain't ready mentally. It's when skill and will match up that you're dangerous. And I'm a dangerous motherfucker, right now. An' aye, Like the cliche says, "no risk, no reward", and I'm all about precarious situations, so we're gonna see what it do.

Emerging from the hyped crowd, another journalist forces his way to the front of the pack.

PRESS PASS: Good afternoon, Ernie! Happy to have you in Monterrey, amigo! You're a world traveled competitor, winning championships all over the world; I know you've spent time in Mexico under the Guerreros of Lucha banner, what makes fighting in Mexico special?

As passionate about Mexico as he is Japan, Cauldwell's eyes widen with excitement.

CAULDWELL: Shit yeah. The Mexican fighting spirit is as real as the streets, bruh. They're warriors that really care about giving everything until the bitter end. They go hard with strength, virility and an endless supply of spirit. Resilient as fuck. It's always been super inspiring to me. And if you've ever been in front of one of their crowds, you know that shit translates. What they bring as a fighter, they bring as a spectator, so it's always a riot to perform down here.

The entire conference hall light up with cheers and applause in appreciation over the positive response.

PRESS PASS: For Redemption 126, your opponent is Phoenix Wrestling staple, The Fin-Nisher. Were you familiar with him prior to finding out he'd be standing across the cage from you on Grappling Night? Or did you have look back at tape and study up to gain a better understanding?

Barely allowing the young man time to finish his query when once again, the gaunt oddfellow starts in with the shenanigans he's so well known for. Ernie leans forward, and with his nose and lips flush with the microphone grating, he unabashedly begins snorting and sucking back snot. The obnoxious sound persists in stereo as he intentionally draws it out for what seems like an eternity before Ernie's throat finally clicks from lazily swallowing the monster loogie down. Through the awkward silence without missing a beat..

CAULDWELL: NOPE! NEVER HEARD OF HIM!

Without getting up from his chair, Ernie facetiously lunges at Fin-Nisher who is seated at the other table.

CAULDWELL: Only kidding. Yeah, I know'em. He's a tag team man, much like myself. Nothin' but respect for him and his brother. The Connection is all good by me, man, who doesn't enjoy them two? Unfortunately, though, as we all know, this is a different sport. I'm not sure how adept he is in the grappling department, but I guess I'm fixin' to find out on the 24th...

PRESS PASS: ..Which leads right into my second part; how good does it feel to be one of the absolute best BJJ players in the game heading into an evening dedicated to grappling, and grappling alone?

A decorated submission specialist that still hasn't learned how to take a compliment. Rolling his eyes, Ernie scoffs at the praise.

CAULDWELL: Sheeit.. I've come this far by putting in the work, bud. I've been doing this my whole life; wrestling and jitz. I'm confident in my skillset, you know? It's as deep as the Mariana Trench and as wide as the Grand Canyon, but never do I come in under the assumption I'm gonna steamroll anybody. And that's not what I do this for anyway. There are a lot of egos in MMA, and it's never been about that for me. If you can leave that shit at the door or at least keep it in check long enough for connections to be made, beautiful shit can happen. It's about learning and sharing the art. To help aid in testing each others limits, if that makes sense to you. Take ego out of the equation best you can and you'll grow exponentially. Bet. I'm psyched to be getting locked in with Fin-Nisher, I know what I'm capable of, and in just a few short days, I'm gonna get the chance to see what he's got. It's all good. It's gonna be a sickening night of fights, folks, for real.

Tilting his head, Cauldwell throws his hands up.

PRESS PASS: Last one! I know you've spent much of your time lately in Hawaii with Jason Jackson and the rest of his team; what about being under the Slaughter roof has helped you prepare for 126 in particular?

CAULDWELL: Camp there in prep for Niko has been super righteous, I'm tellin' ya. Gnarly strikers and I'm rollin' with some of the best around over there. They don't fuck around, I don't fuck around. More on that in the days to come, but til then, suppose I'll just let you draw your own conclusions, huh? ..Well.. You'll see.. 

[Silver Eagle]

Anastasia sat there quietly during the proceedings, perched at the end of the table clutching onto her Rebirth Championship belt as she listened in to the other competitors each take their turns to say their piece. The Iron King was always an interesting time, and for the mass majority of the Phoenix roster, something completely out of their comfort zone. A largely Mixed Martial Arts based tournament, that for the most part, was competed with only professional wrestlers. But this year was different, and tried and tested MMA specialists from CGFC and beyond entering for the first time. The eyes of the reporters all scanned to the top ranked champion of Phoenix Wrestling, and it was true that her words were ones they were eagerly anticipating. Starling stood, attired in a casual set of jeans, a #TooTweet t-shirt and her infamous pink studded leather jacket, merely glared out.

ANASTASIA STARLING:M INE!

She bellowed, raising her title high in the air as he eyes scanned across the room.

ANASTASIA STARLING: Before the comments, before the questions, before anyone and everyone starts setting their opinion… I have something to say.

The Pale Winged Passerine looked grim and determined, her eyes piercing the crowd as she spoke.

ANASTASIA STARLING: Who doubt me now?!

Starling was silent, raising her belt in the air as she tried to send a message out.

ANASTASIA STARLING: Ever seen I won this title, the title I fought long and hard to gain, all I have had is doubt. Did Ana deserve this title? Did she twist the rules to win? Was she lucky due to what the Collective did? Was it outside help that kept the title around her waist?

[Ana stared out, emotionless and wanting to prove a point..

ANASTASIA STARLING: After that chamber… No one can doubt. I went up against the very best five that are part of the Phoenix roster, and no matter the thoughts, no matter the feelings… I won. As I said I would, and I gave everything I had and more. EVERYTHING!

Starling glared out, not needing an answer but answering them nonetheless.

ANASTASIA STARLING: This tournament has brought so many people from so many different walks of life. Some who are world renowned. Strikers. Wrestlers. The very finest in MMA. The newest of names in the newest of places. Some that look to use this night as a stepping stone… and others...

Ana merely look on.

ANASTASIA STARLING: I have been in the Iron King before, reaching the semi final. Due to my style and viewpoint, no one wanted to be here to fight me.. NO ONE… It doesn’t matter whether I am an MMA prodigy, nor if anyone wants to complain… This is what is happening. This is what WILL happen, and a whole puch need to get involved and focused./font]

Ana merely look on once more.

ANASTASIA STARLING: It doesn’t matter who you are. I doesn't matter where you competied before… I am just here, here to change your views.. And I am here to get the right results. Afterall, I am the champion

Ana stopped and stared.

ANASTASIA STARLING: I am the goal. FOr Mandi in the first round, and everyone who survives it… And there is a reason why I am here, right now…. I am the one you want to beat….


Starling was far more serious than normal, and she was truly fired up.

ANASTASIA STARLING: I am the goal. FOr Mandi in the first round, and everyone who survives it… And there is a reason why I am here, right now…. I am the one you want to beat…. Because if you do manage to get further, I will be the one waiting… But let me remind you of this… Think what you like, do what you like, but no matter what you do, I am coming from a different background. And one you DON’T understand. Whether you are the perfect striker, the best grappler, whether you have the audience in your hand… All roads lead to Ana… And I will show you that is not the path you want to take.