Post by aleisterdavison on May 17, 2020 19:21:59 GMT -5
My first event and I already have the chance to become a champion? That's what we call showing the due respect to your talent. To somebody who has come in with the resumè that I have. That was renowned as being THE. Not just one of them, but THE best wrestler in Japan. Not just the best gajin. Overall the best. Don't believe me? Just look at all the articles written about me.
All the matches that people paid money to watch. Matches that have retained a legacy long after they occurred. Especially my ironman match against Nagai for the IPW world title. A match that I won. Go look at my body of work in both Japan and England, then get back to me on whether or not you believe me. Or if you're going to elect to remain asleep. Ignorant.
It doesn't matter to me what you choose to do. Either way, you'll eventually have no choice but to accept it. To realize that you're looking at OPW's finest. That you're looking at the man who will walk out of the Rumble with the Pureblood title draped across his shoulder, and there's not a damn thing any of the others in this match can do about it.
Just like there's not a damn thing Demon X can do about the bloodbath I have in store for him. Two matches, two victories, and two statements about to be made. Y'all better make sure you tune in. I promise you're not about to regret it.
SCENE ONE.
I sit atop the empty bleachers surrounding the football field of the Gulf Shores High Dolphins, attired in snow-white Nike wifebeater, denim jeans with a chocolate brown leather belt and black leather cowboy boots. Not the sort of attire you'd usually see at a football field, but I'm not here to play. Maybe if there wasn't a pandemic going on that had ground sports to a halt, I would.
Just like I did at high school when I played Running Back for the Edmond Memorial High Bulldogs. I even had a scholarship offer to the University of Oklahoma and was rated as the number one Running Back in the state. Number four in the nation my senior year.
Would've been NFL bound, if I didn't already have my heart set on wrestling. Pondering my thoughts, I glance down at the pristine state of the field, the result of many hours of maintenance and care by the groundskeeping staff. As well as the freshly painted cream steel and aluminum goalposts. Planted upright into the grass and soil as a slight smile begins to form on the right-hand side of my mouth. My eyes still fixated on the field.
Aleister: I still remember rushing for two hundred and twenty-eight yards against Stillwater. They couldn't stop me that day.
Softly sighing, I slide across about three inches to the left as I glance across at the empty schoolyards. The sunlight reflecting off the concrete surface before casting my eyes back at the field. My once slight smile now a grin.
Aleister: Things could very well have been different. Much like the students who play on this field, I could have been the next great Running Back in the NFL. The next Eric Dickerson or Barry Sanders. The next Adrian Peterson or LaDanian Tomlinson. Yet I don't regret choosing wrestling.
Knowing no one can hear my words except for myself, I exhale. Troy taught me never to hold any regrets. Especially when it comes to life-altering decisions like choosing the path your career is taking. Or going to take. Otherwise why make the choice, if you're only going to regret it later?
You have to be convinced that the decision you're making is the RIGHT one, to ensure that you're not put into a position later on where you're asking yourself "what if?". Yet at the same time, that question still lingers in my mind. What if I DID choose football? What if I became the greatest Running Back the NFL has ever seen?
I slightly shake my head, knowing deep down that it's not worth ruminating upon. It's not worth pondering decisions that I didn't make, even if it is merely reflection. As much as I'd like to, I can't turn back time and change course. I chose to be a wrestler. I chose to make the bed I now happily lay in, and I would never have had the opportunity to experience Japan or England if I instead chose to accept the offer from the Sooners. Inhaling and exhaling, I continue to stare out at the field, feeling the sun absorbing into my skin as I gently laugh.
Aleister: I don't regret turning my back on football. No matter how much I wonder what could have been. Every choice we make, we do so for a reason. We do so because it is what offers us the best chance to spread our wings and make our names in this world.
Steadily rising, I begin to make my way across the concrete floor of the stand, the sound of my boots hitting the surface slightly echoing in the air as I do so. As much as I'd love to stay and admire the field in its pristine glory, I know that it isn't the most productive thing I could be doing with my time.
Especially as I had promised Cassandra that I would do at least three separate interviews in order to promote my OPW in-ring debut matches while I was in town. Much like I had done for some of my most prominent matches in Japan. Including the famous World title match against Nagai or what I did with Madisin in order to make my presence known in the OPW landscape. Even if Cassandra made me text her an apology afterward for my outburst. Though she deserved it.
She should have known NOT to ask about my family. It's not her job to try and expose shit like that, especially if she has no clue what occurred that night. Maybe one day, I will reveal the truth and talk about it. That's for me to decide though, not Madisin. Not anybody else. It may have been too much of me to expect her to respect that though.
Walking down the concrete steps, I feel my chest rising and falls while I steadily inhale and exhale. Each breath helping to calm the irritation and anger that had been bubbling inside of me due to remembering Madisin's prying. Reaching the bottom, I swivel my body to the left and begin to slowly jog parallel to the sideline.
Just like I had in high school during warm-ups for football practice. Ensuring that my calves, thighs, and feet arm are sufficiently warmed up. Even if I'm not intending to partake in a full gym session. I've got to ensure that I don't suffer any unnecessary injuries.
Reaching the endzone, I slow to a halt, pivoting my body around to take one last glance at the field before swiveling around and walking away. Heading toward the steel chain link fence where I parked my car. Ready to drive back to my hotel and have a few hours of rest snd relaxation. Just like I had been doing since I arrived three days ago.
SCENE TWO.
I sit atop a plush Raven black leather cushioned chair, attired in a moss green cotton shirt, midnight black cotton shorts, and slate white Nike sneakers with wine accents inside a Television Studio, with a green screen behind me, providing the backdrop of a Florida beach. Two palm trees are positioned on either side of the backdrop, attempting to provide more authenticity to the setting. Six feet diagonally to the right of where I sit is a forty-inch wide Samsung widescreen TV, affixed to the roof with steel cables and currently showcasing the logo of WRSE TV Channel 23, who are hosting this interview.
Wiggling back in my seat, I reach out with my left hand. Grasping a glass of water that sits atop the oak table two feet in front of me, I gulp down some water. Moisturizing and lubricating my throat and ensuring that it doesn't feel like I have just finished eating peanut butter whenever I speak.
Glancing around the studio, I notice the production staff setting up the steel tripods ten feet and on both the left and right diagonal to the table, ensuring that they can get the best angles possible for the broadcast. Stagehands are also scrambling around, attempting to deliver scripts, cue cards, and other materials so that the interview can flow as seamlessly as possible.
Tilting my head to the right, I notice a female with blond hair tied into a ponytail attired in a charcoal pinstripe suit and pants, with a white shirt and black leather heels walking across the oak floorboards. Making her way towards the empty seat six feet away from me. Nodding to myself, I tilt my head back straight as a stagehand wanders over to her, carrying about twelve A4 sheets of paper.
Stagehand: Here are the notes you requested, Sarah.
The female nods, taking the sheets from the stagehand before continuing to walk toward her seat. Sitting down and tilting her head to look at me when she does.
Sarah: Hey.
I shoot a glance across to her, a slight smile curling up on the right-hand corner of my mouth.
Aleister: Hey. Guessing you're Sarah?
Sarah curls her mouth into a slight smile, affirming her identity with a nod as a stagehand walks across the floor to us.
Stagehand: Showtime in two minutes.
The stagehand walks off, returning to his posting at one of the six laptops set up about four feet to the left of Sarah and out of the line of sight of the lens of the setup cameras. Turning to me, Sarah calmly laughs.
Sarah: How are you feeling? Are you ready to start?
Aleister: Ready whenever you guys are.
Taking another gulp of water, I gently place the glass back atop the table, whilst Sarah softly taps the bottom of the sheets against her lap. Making sure they are neatly ordered in case she needs to refer to them at any point during the interview. Tilting her head to the left, she nods to the production staff, who push the enter key on their laptops, whilst the camera begins to roll.
Sarah: Hello everybody, and welcome to another edition of "World of Wrestling". I'm your host, Sarah Price and with my today, is former JPW, EWCP, and IPW world champion as well as one of the newest additions to the OPW roster, Aleister Davison. Or "Invictus" as he's better known. Thanks for coming in today to talk.
I smile slightly, nodding as I look across at Sarah. Her focus, however, remains straight ahead.
Aleister: Thanks for having me on.
Sarah turns to face me upon hearing my response, smiling before glancing slightly down at her notes.
Sarah: Last week, we saw you make your debut on OPW programming, where you talked a bit about what you plan on doing on the roster. I'm wondering what was the motivating factor behind joining OPW? I'm sure you had multiple promotions interested in having you on the roster, so why them?
I laugh to myself. I can tell already that Sarah is more qualified than Madisin EVER was when it comes to conducting an interview, seeing as she jumps right to a meaningful question. Instead of trying to talk up the supposed "talent" on the OPW roster.
Aleister: Why did I choose OPW? You're right, Sarah. I DID have multiple companies offer me a contract. Offer the chance for me to embarrass their roster and run them down. To show why I am the best in the game today. OPW just made the most enticing offer in terms of opportunities.
They were the only ones who were willing to sell me on what I could do on their roster. Rather than trying to make it about what I could do for them. To someone like me, that matters. It shows that OPW understood I wasn't doing this for them. I'm doing it for me.
I feel the right corner of my mouth curl up further, as Sarah consults her notes once more. Making sure she's on the right track in terms of her response.
Sarah: What exactly was it about their approach that stuck out to you? How did they sell you on it being about YOU and not THEM?
I exhale slightly, the question marinating in my mind. Trying to conjure up the best manner in which to respond.
Aleister: They were the ONLY promotion who was immediately willing to offer me a spot on their marquee. A spot that I have earnt from my work in Japan and England. The only company that was willing to elevate me and what I do in that ring. Which is be "Invictus" and prove why there's not a single soul that can stand toe-to-toe and stop me.
Sarah: OPW does play host to some of the best talents in the industry today, though. So, don't you think it's a little bit arrogant to assert that you're the best from day one?
Her voice firm, I slightly laugh at her retort. Madisin said something to a very similar effect during our interview on Showcase and my answer to her there still applies here.
Aleister: I'm already aware of the names on the roster. I have been watching the company since it first opened its doors. It doesn't mean any of the talents they do have can hold a candle to me in the ring though.
They might be good. Very good even, but that doesn't mean much when you're stepping into the ring with a man who will have you on the mat in mere seconds. Looking up at the lights and realizin' that I'm not just another name. Not just another face, but the man who will supersede you. The man who has taken your food.
Sarah's mouth slightly goes agape, though she manages to close it quickly enough to maintain her appearance of professionalism. I simply shoot a stoic, cold glance in her direction. Awaiting the next query she may have for me.
Glancing at her notes, Sarah slightly furrows her eyebrows. Attempting to find a follow-up question. Or at least, something she can ask. Extending her right hand, she clasps the glass of water that had been left on the table in front of her, much like one had been for me. Lifting it to her mouth, she takes a sip whilst placing the notes on her lap, then the glass back on the table.
Sarah: Okay. Is there any particular talent you'd like to face on the roster? Anyone whose food you'd like to take the most?
Another laugh leaves my mouth, as I instantly fire off my response, having telegraphed that this very question would come up. It always does in these promotional interviews.
Aleister: No. It doesn't matter to me who's on the opposite side of the ring to me. I'm not one to discriminate against ANYONE who wants to man up and face me. If they have the balls and ability to suck up their pride, that is.
Shooting me a look of surprise, Sarah gently clears her throat. Usually, people have a specific opponent they want to face more than anyone else. Not me. This isn't Japan, where there were a few people I wanted to step into the ring with and got the chance to do so. This isn't like England, where I wanted to step into the ring with Frank Ironside. This is a domain where EVERYBODY has a target placed firmly on their back. It's on them if they wish to try and come at me. I won't be held accountable for any subsequent humiliation they suffer, however.
Sarah: Well, this week, you have the chance to tick a few names off the list in the battle royal for the vacated Pureblood championship. As well as the opportunity...[/b]
I raise my right hand, stopping her from continuing the moment she states 'opportunity'.
Aleister: I'm going to stop you right there. It's not just an opportunity to become the new Pureblood champion. It's a guarantee. Just like it's a guarantee that I WILL expose Demon X as a fraud. It doesn't matter who's in the match. One by one, they will all be dispatched. Eliminated whilst the fans are left with one realization. That to me, they can sleep all day. It won't matter when it's all said and done.
Sarah exhales, casting a curious glance in my direction.
Sarah: So, you're guaranteeing you'll win BOTH your matches this week?
Aleister: Did I stutter? Of course, I f******* am. Why wouldn't I? Did you REALLY think I'd come here and say "well, anyone can win, but I'm just going to do what I can to make sure it's me," or some shit?
Shaking my head, I'm both surprised and disappointed that Sarah would try to challenge me on that fact. I get it, she just wanted to affirm that's what I said, but I'd expect someone that has the experience she has to know that I wasn't just saying it to say it. No. I meant that shit.
Sarah: No. I just wanted to make sure I was hearing you correctly. Especially with some of the names that have already thrown their name into the hat for the Rumble and their credentials.
Sighing, I notice the defensiveness within her words. She was surprised that I would shoot back in the manner I did, even if anyone who knows me. Or has even seen a second of my interviews in Japan would know this is how I've always been.
Aleister: Their names could be "God", "Jesus" and "Gandhi" for all I care about. It doesn't matter who they are or what they have accomplished inside the ring. All that matters is that they are in the way of what I want. In the way of me, as I take flight. As I show you first-hand why I am simply "Invictus".
Sarah feels her mouth drop slightly again, although this time she curls the left side of her mouth into a smile. Glancing towards the production staff to her left, she motions for a commercial break.
Sarah: We'll be back with more after this.
Tilting her head toward me, Sarah simply nods. Understanding that this is just the way I am. That I'm someone who's just going to tell people how I see it, not caring about how they might react.
Sarah: You're probably the first person I've seen who is so upfront with their perceived arrogance. I like it though, makes the interview more interesting.
I laugh, as I glance over at her.
Aleister: I'm not about to sit here and lie to these people. I'm not in the business of telling them what they want to hear. I'm in the business of telling them the truth. I'm not going to filter or hide a damn thing.
She respectfully nods. It's almost refreshing to hear how honest I am. How I don't just dance around subjects and tell people straight up what's going to happen. Something that's become rarer, almost to the point of a dying breed in modern wrestling. It's then that a production member motions that we are about to return on air, the advertisements having finished up.
Sarah: We are back on "World of Wrestling" with special guest, Aleister Davison. Before the commercial, we were discussing the battle royal you're in this week, as well as briefly your match with Demon X.
Now, I want to get to learn more about your time in Japan and how it influenced you as a wrestler. I know you started out with JPW, having been hired by the great Sanji Kazawa. What was it like working with him?
I softly laugh to myself, exhaling. Remembering back to the first day I met Sanji and he told me that I didn't have the build or the look to make it in the ring.
Aleister: Sanji was a great guy. At first, I thought he was a bit of an asshole, but once you get to know him, you realize he's only doing it to push you. To make you into a better wrestler. Which is something I respect.
Sarah nods, slightly peering down at her notes.
Sarah: Okay. I remember reading an interview back in 2017, where he said you were both his favorite and least favorite person to work with. Tell me a little more about that.
I furrow my eyebrows, surprised that the interview even made it out of Japan. I won't deny it though, I was a bit of an asshole behind the scenes back then. Part of the reason Sanji was as harsh as he was on me. He just wanted to teach me life lessons as well as lessons inside of the ring.
Aleister: I can admit that I wasn't the easiest to work with. Especially when I was makin' my name in the industry because I felt like I had to be alpha. If I was going to be alpha in the ring, it made sense to be alpha outside of it too. Well, at least back then it did. Sanji taught me that WASN'T the case, and that it would serve me better to save the alpha shit for the ring.
Sarah: So, he told you to tone it down?
Aleister: Yes. I remember he would pull me aside after events and often tell me not to be a dick, otherwise, I would be out the door. Among other things that I probably can't say on TV.
Sarah shoots me a curious look but notices that I'm serious. There are things he said that I cannot reveal on TV. Unless they want their censors to be worked into overdrive. Such was the vulgarity of those statements.
Sarah: What was your favorite JPW match? For me, I loved your bout in Osaka against Katomi Zawa for the JPW Intercontinental title. Where does that rank for you?
Exhaling and internally laughing at how she changed the course of the discussion, I reflect back on this question. It's honestly not something I had really given that much thought to.
Aleister: I don't necessarily have a favorite. I haven't really given it much thought, though I loved being about to step into the ring with Kenzo Nakatami. Especially inside the Tokyo Dome.
Sarah attempts to recall that match, as the left corner of my mouth curls into a smile.
Sarah: I don't think I remember seeing that one, but I did see some reviews of it. What to you, makes that match so special?
I allow that question to marinate and settle before inhaling and sharply exhaling. Kenzo and I just clicked. There's really no other way to put it. I don't know what it was, but we just seemed to have a certain chemistry with one another that couldn't be replicated.
Aleister: It's hard to honestly put my finger on any one factor that makes the match so special. It's the combination of our natural chemistry, the aura, and the mystique of the Tokyo Dome itself. The anticipation of knowing what we were about to put on for the fans. The tension. The drama. It all added up and still remains with me to this day.
Sarah nods respectfully. Understanding how much the match truly did, and still does, mean to me. How much it helped craft me into the wrestler that I am today.
Sarah: So, it was the little things all adding up? Kind of like a puzzle, and all the pieces just fitting together?
I nod.
Aleister: Yes.
Sarah smiles, as she looks down at her notes. Then over at the production staff, who motions that they over have five minutes left until the next segment of the show is supposed to begin. She nods at them, before tilting her head over to me.
Sarah: One final question I have for you before we move onto the next segment is: Is there anyone opponent you would like to face again that you have in the past?
Without even a second of thought, I answer.
Aleister: Akiro Yazawa. I'd love to get the chance to step in the ring against him again. Get my revenge for him taking my IPW Junior Heavyweight title.
Sarah smiles, as I push my chair backward. Getting ready to leave the studio and head back to the hotel for some much-needed rest.
Sarah: Thanks for your time, Aleister. Good luck this week.
I stand up, as I swivel my body to the right, responding as I walk off.
Aleister: Thanks for having me.
I walk off the stage, the interview finally was done with. Knowing that all that's left now is for Showcase to roll around. So that I can finish the deal and walk out with the Pureblood championship safely atop my shoulder. First, however, is some rest and relaxation.
SCENE THREE.
I walk along 29th Avenue, coldly glancing straight ahead. A gentle smile across my face. Attired in a sandcastle colored linen t-shirt, jet black polyester basketball shorts, and navy blue Nike sneakers. A gentle breeze brushes against my skin, causing the hairs on my arm to stick up, whilst I maintain my steely, almost statue-like expression. Wanting to ensure that the OPW cameras that have been strategically set up atop tripods all up and down the avenue are able to catch me for the duration of this little walk.
Aleister: If you believe you can deny me. If you believe you can stop me from taking the Pureblood title this week, you're lying. Lying to yourself. Lying to those who claim to be your fans. Lying to me.
My feet hitting the concrete sidewalk, I exhale. It's true. Each and every person within this match is lying if they believe they have even a remote chance of walking out with the title. Of victory.
Aleister: Deep down, I think each of you in this match knows that. Realizes that, yet you attempt to convince yourself that you STILL have a chance. That you still hold a hope that you can make me eat my words. That you can somehow defy the odds and hold the title. Cradle it as if it were your own child.
I continue to walk leisurely, my eyes glancing at some of the victorian era inspired homes that reside within the avenue. A more vintage sort of location, within a city that provides them with solace and tranquility.
Aleister: I don't blame you. We all need some form of hope. Something to keep us motivated when everything is dead and gone. When we are questioning whether it is all worth it. Whether the reward is truly worth the risk. Whether the pleasure is worth the pain.
Pausing, I softly curl the left corner of my mouth up about twenty-five degrees. Maintaining my steely, emotionless expression otherwise.
Aleister: Yet hope can lead one astray, should it be misguided. Should it be all that guides you. Especially when you're forced to confront a man who merely wants to use all of you as an example. Just as I shall be using Demon X as an example earlier in the night.
I allow the words to float gently into the air as I exhale. Hoping that those in the battle royal. That Demon X truly listen to. Attempt to attain a fundamental understanding of what I am telling them. Of what they are coming up against at Showcase, because I don't think they realize. I don't think they truly understand who I am. Or just why they have been set up for failure.
Aleister: To you, this battle royal is an opportunity. A door that if you open, will enable you to hold the title belt you crave. A title that I crave as well. Yet to me, the battle royal is an exhibition. A true showcase of just why I am here. Just why you won't be able to deny me. You won't be able to ignore me once the smoke clears. Why nothing else matters to me but reminding you all just who I am.
Stopping in front of a brick fence that has an oak tree behind it, I take a look around. Soaking in the vintage, antique nature of this quiet avenue. Knowing that much like this road, I am heading along the path to where I need to be in this industry. A path, that starts by walking out of Showcase this week with the Pureblood championship in my possession. Smiling slightly, I allow the breeze to brush against my body before taking two steps forward.
Aleister: That nothing that anybody in this match can do, will be enough to deny me. It won't be enough to stop me from taking that belt and making it mine. From ruling the Pureblood division with an iron fist. You can try, but it'll only result in failure. It'll only result in agony and pain, as you lay on your backs. Questioning yourself as to why you couldn't get the job done.
I let out gentle, friendly laughter as I smile.
Aleister: Why you fell, at the hands of "Invictus". It is inevitable. Trust me.
I resume my brisk walk, having let everyone know. Having promised them that it was only a matter of time until they woke up. Until they would FINALLY see the truth. Until they all fall. One by one. Trust me.
All the matches that people paid money to watch. Matches that have retained a legacy long after they occurred. Especially my ironman match against Nagai for the IPW world title. A match that I won. Go look at my body of work in both Japan and England, then get back to me on whether or not you believe me. Or if you're going to elect to remain asleep. Ignorant.
It doesn't matter to me what you choose to do. Either way, you'll eventually have no choice but to accept it. To realize that you're looking at OPW's finest. That you're looking at the man who will walk out of the Rumble with the Pureblood title draped across his shoulder, and there's not a damn thing any of the others in this match can do about it.
Just like there's not a damn thing Demon X can do about the bloodbath I have in store for him. Two matches, two victories, and two statements about to be made. Y'all better make sure you tune in. I promise you're not about to regret it.
SCENE ONE.
I sit atop the empty bleachers surrounding the football field of the Gulf Shores High Dolphins, attired in snow-white Nike wifebeater, denim jeans with a chocolate brown leather belt and black leather cowboy boots. Not the sort of attire you'd usually see at a football field, but I'm not here to play. Maybe if there wasn't a pandemic going on that had ground sports to a halt, I would.
Just like I did at high school when I played Running Back for the Edmond Memorial High Bulldogs. I even had a scholarship offer to the University of Oklahoma and was rated as the number one Running Back in the state. Number four in the nation my senior year.
Would've been NFL bound, if I didn't already have my heart set on wrestling. Pondering my thoughts, I glance down at the pristine state of the field, the result of many hours of maintenance and care by the groundskeeping staff. As well as the freshly painted cream steel and aluminum goalposts. Planted upright into the grass and soil as a slight smile begins to form on the right-hand side of my mouth. My eyes still fixated on the field.
Aleister: I still remember rushing for two hundred and twenty-eight yards against Stillwater. They couldn't stop me that day.
Softly sighing, I slide across about three inches to the left as I glance across at the empty schoolyards. The sunlight reflecting off the concrete surface before casting my eyes back at the field. My once slight smile now a grin.
Aleister: Things could very well have been different. Much like the students who play on this field, I could have been the next great Running Back in the NFL. The next Eric Dickerson or Barry Sanders. The next Adrian Peterson or LaDanian Tomlinson. Yet I don't regret choosing wrestling.
Knowing no one can hear my words except for myself, I exhale. Troy taught me never to hold any regrets. Especially when it comes to life-altering decisions like choosing the path your career is taking. Or going to take. Otherwise why make the choice, if you're only going to regret it later?
You have to be convinced that the decision you're making is the RIGHT one, to ensure that you're not put into a position later on where you're asking yourself "what if?". Yet at the same time, that question still lingers in my mind. What if I DID choose football? What if I became the greatest Running Back the NFL has ever seen?
I slightly shake my head, knowing deep down that it's not worth ruminating upon. It's not worth pondering decisions that I didn't make, even if it is merely reflection. As much as I'd like to, I can't turn back time and change course. I chose to be a wrestler. I chose to make the bed I now happily lay in, and I would never have had the opportunity to experience Japan or England if I instead chose to accept the offer from the Sooners. Inhaling and exhaling, I continue to stare out at the field, feeling the sun absorbing into my skin as I gently laugh.
Aleister: I don't regret turning my back on football. No matter how much I wonder what could have been. Every choice we make, we do so for a reason. We do so because it is what offers us the best chance to spread our wings and make our names in this world.
Steadily rising, I begin to make my way across the concrete floor of the stand, the sound of my boots hitting the surface slightly echoing in the air as I do so. As much as I'd love to stay and admire the field in its pristine glory, I know that it isn't the most productive thing I could be doing with my time.
Especially as I had promised Cassandra that I would do at least three separate interviews in order to promote my OPW in-ring debut matches while I was in town. Much like I had done for some of my most prominent matches in Japan. Including the famous World title match against Nagai or what I did with Madisin in order to make my presence known in the OPW landscape. Even if Cassandra made me text her an apology afterward for my outburst. Though she deserved it.
She should have known NOT to ask about my family. It's not her job to try and expose shit like that, especially if she has no clue what occurred that night. Maybe one day, I will reveal the truth and talk about it. That's for me to decide though, not Madisin. Not anybody else. It may have been too much of me to expect her to respect that though.
Walking down the concrete steps, I feel my chest rising and falls while I steadily inhale and exhale. Each breath helping to calm the irritation and anger that had been bubbling inside of me due to remembering Madisin's prying. Reaching the bottom, I swivel my body to the left and begin to slowly jog parallel to the sideline.
Just like I had in high school during warm-ups for football practice. Ensuring that my calves, thighs, and feet arm are sufficiently warmed up. Even if I'm not intending to partake in a full gym session. I've got to ensure that I don't suffer any unnecessary injuries.
Reaching the endzone, I slow to a halt, pivoting my body around to take one last glance at the field before swiveling around and walking away. Heading toward the steel chain link fence where I parked my car. Ready to drive back to my hotel and have a few hours of rest snd relaxation. Just like I had been doing since I arrived three days ago.
SCENE TWO.
I sit atop a plush Raven black leather cushioned chair, attired in a moss green cotton shirt, midnight black cotton shorts, and slate white Nike sneakers with wine accents inside a Television Studio, with a green screen behind me, providing the backdrop of a Florida beach. Two palm trees are positioned on either side of the backdrop, attempting to provide more authenticity to the setting. Six feet diagonally to the right of where I sit is a forty-inch wide Samsung widescreen TV, affixed to the roof with steel cables and currently showcasing the logo of WRSE TV Channel 23, who are hosting this interview.
Wiggling back in my seat, I reach out with my left hand. Grasping a glass of water that sits atop the oak table two feet in front of me, I gulp down some water. Moisturizing and lubricating my throat and ensuring that it doesn't feel like I have just finished eating peanut butter whenever I speak.
Glancing around the studio, I notice the production staff setting up the steel tripods ten feet and on both the left and right diagonal to the table, ensuring that they can get the best angles possible for the broadcast. Stagehands are also scrambling around, attempting to deliver scripts, cue cards, and other materials so that the interview can flow as seamlessly as possible.
Tilting my head to the right, I notice a female with blond hair tied into a ponytail attired in a charcoal pinstripe suit and pants, with a white shirt and black leather heels walking across the oak floorboards. Making her way towards the empty seat six feet away from me. Nodding to myself, I tilt my head back straight as a stagehand wanders over to her, carrying about twelve A4 sheets of paper.
Stagehand: Here are the notes you requested, Sarah.
The female nods, taking the sheets from the stagehand before continuing to walk toward her seat. Sitting down and tilting her head to look at me when she does.
Sarah: Hey.
I shoot a glance across to her, a slight smile curling up on the right-hand corner of my mouth.
Aleister: Hey. Guessing you're Sarah?
Sarah curls her mouth into a slight smile, affirming her identity with a nod as a stagehand walks across the floor to us.
Stagehand: Showtime in two minutes.
The stagehand walks off, returning to his posting at one of the six laptops set up about four feet to the left of Sarah and out of the line of sight of the lens of the setup cameras. Turning to me, Sarah calmly laughs.
Sarah: How are you feeling? Are you ready to start?
Aleister: Ready whenever you guys are.
Taking another gulp of water, I gently place the glass back atop the table, whilst Sarah softly taps the bottom of the sheets against her lap. Making sure they are neatly ordered in case she needs to refer to them at any point during the interview. Tilting her head to the left, she nods to the production staff, who push the enter key on their laptops, whilst the camera begins to roll.
Sarah: Hello everybody, and welcome to another edition of "World of Wrestling". I'm your host, Sarah Price and with my today, is former JPW, EWCP, and IPW world champion as well as one of the newest additions to the OPW roster, Aleister Davison. Or "Invictus" as he's better known. Thanks for coming in today to talk.
I smile slightly, nodding as I look across at Sarah. Her focus, however, remains straight ahead.
Aleister: Thanks for having me on.
Sarah turns to face me upon hearing my response, smiling before glancing slightly down at her notes.
Sarah: Last week, we saw you make your debut on OPW programming, where you talked a bit about what you plan on doing on the roster. I'm wondering what was the motivating factor behind joining OPW? I'm sure you had multiple promotions interested in having you on the roster, so why them?
I laugh to myself. I can tell already that Sarah is more qualified than Madisin EVER was when it comes to conducting an interview, seeing as she jumps right to a meaningful question. Instead of trying to talk up the supposed "talent" on the OPW roster.
Aleister: Why did I choose OPW? You're right, Sarah. I DID have multiple companies offer me a contract. Offer the chance for me to embarrass their roster and run them down. To show why I am the best in the game today. OPW just made the most enticing offer in terms of opportunities.
They were the only ones who were willing to sell me on what I could do on their roster. Rather than trying to make it about what I could do for them. To someone like me, that matters. It shows that OPW understood I wasn't doing this for them. I'm doing it for me.
I feel the right corner of my mouth curl up further, as Sarah consults her notes once more. Making sure she's on the right track in terms of her response.
Sarah: What exactly was it about their approach that stuck out to you? How did they sell you on it being about YOU and not THEM?
I exhale slightly, the question marinating in my mind. Trying to conjure up the best manner in which to respond.
Aleister: They were the ONLY promotion who was immediately willing to offer me a spot on their marquee. A spot that I have earnt from my work in Japan and England. The only company that was willing to elevate me and what I do in that ring. Which is be "Invictus" and prove why there's not a single soul that can stand toe-to-toe and stop me.
Sarah: OPW does play host to some of the best talents in the industry today, though. So, don't you think it's a little bit arrogant to assert that you're the best from day one?
Her voice firm, I slightly laugh at her retort. Madisin said something to a very similar effect during our interview on Showcase and my answer to her there still applies here.
Aleister: I'm already aware of the names on the roster. I have been watching the company since it first opened its doors. It doesn't mean any of the talents they do have can hold a candle to me in the ring though.
They might be good. Very good even, but that doesn't mean much when you're stepping into the ring with a man who will have you on the mat in mere seconds. Looking up at the lights and realizin' that I'm not just another name. Not just another face, but the man who will supersede you. The man who has taken your food.
Sarah's mouth slightly goes agape, though she manages to close it quickly enough to maintain her appearance of professionalism. I simply shoot a stoic, cold glance in her direction. Awaiting the next query she may have for me.
Glancing at her notes, Sarah slightly furrows her eyebrows. Attempting to find a follow-up question. Or at least, something she can ask. Extending her right hand, she clasps the glass of water that had been left on the table in front of her, much like one had been for me. Lifting it to her mouth, she takes a sip whilst placing the notes on her lap, then the glass back on the table.
Sarah: Okay. Is there any particular talent you'd like to face on the roster? Anyone whose food you'd like to take the most?
Another laugh leaves my mouth, as I instantly fire off my response, having telegraphed that this very question would come up. It always does in these promotional interviews.
Aleister: No. It doesn't matter to me who's on the opposite side of the ring to me. I'm not one to discriminate against ANYONE who wants to man up and face me. If they have the balls and ability to suck up their pride, that is.
Shooting me a look of surprise, Sarah gently clears her throat. Usually, people have a specific opponent they want to face more than anyone else. Not me. This isn't Japan, where there were a few people I wanted to step into the ring with and got the chance to do so. This isn't like England, where I wanted to step into the ring with Frank Ironside. This is a domain where EVERYBODY has a target placed firmly on their back. It's on them if they wish to try and come at me. I won't be held accountable for any subsequent humiliation they suffer, however.
Sarah: Well, this week, you have the chance to tick a few names off the list in the battle royal for the vacated Pureblood championship. As well as the opportunity...[/b]
I raise my right hand, stopping her from continuing the moment she states 'opportunity'.
Aleister: I'm going to stop you right there. It's not just an opportunity to become the new Pureblood champion. It's a guarantee. Just like it's a guarantee that I WILL expose Demon X as a fraud. It doesn't matter who's in the match. One by one, they will all be dispatched. Eliminated whilst the fans are left with one realization. That to me, they can sleep all day. It won't matter when it's all said and done.
Sarah exhales, casting a curious glance in my direction.
Sarah: So, you're guaranteeing you'll win BOTH your matches this week?
Aleister: Did I stutter? Of course, I f******* am. Why wouldn't I? Did you REALLY think I'd come here and say "well, anyone can win, but I'm just going to do what I can to make sure it's me," or some shit?
Shaking my head, I'm both surprised and disappointed that Sarah would try to challenge me on that fact. I get it, she just wanted to affirm that's what I said, but I'd expect someone that has the experience she has to know that I wasn't just saying it to say it. No. I meant that shit.
Sarah: No. I just wanted to make sure I was hearing you correctly. Especially with some of the names that have already thrown their name into the hat for the Rumble and their credentials.
Sighing, I notice the defensiveness within her words. She was surprised that I would shoot back in the manner I did, even if anyone who knows me. Or has even seen a second of my interviews in Japan would know this is how I've always been.
Aleister: Their names could be "God", "Jesus" and "Gandhi" for all I care about. It doesn't matter who they are or what they have accomplished inside the ring. All that matters is that they are in the way of what I want. In the way of me, as I take flight. As I show you first-hand why I am simply "Invictus".
Sarah feels her mouth drop slightly again, although this time she curls the left side of her mouth into a smile. Glancing towards the production staff to her left, she motions for a commercial break.
Sarah: We'll be back with more after this.
Tilting her head toward me, Sarah simply nods. Understanding that this is just the way I am. That I'm someone who's just going to tell people how I see it, not caring about how they might react.
Sarah: You're probably the first person I've seen who is so upfront with their perceived arrogance. I like it though, makes the interview more interesting.
I laugh, as I glance over at her.
Aleister: I'm not about to sit here and lie to these people. I'm not in the business of telling them what they want to hear. I'm in the business of telling them the truth. I'm not going to filter or hide a damn thing.
She respectfully nods. It's almost refreshing to hear how honest I am. How I don't just dance around subjects and tell people straight up what's going to happen. Something that's become rarer, almost to the point of a dying breed in modern wrestling. It's then that a production member motions that we are about to return on air, the advertisements having finished up.
Sarah: We are back on "World of Wrestling" with special guest, Aleister Davison. Before the commercial, we were discussing the battle royal you're in this week, as well as briefly your match with Demon X.
Now, I want to get to learn more about your time in Japan and how it influenced you as a wrestler. I know you started out with JPW, having been hired by the great Sanji Kazawa. What was it like working with him?
I softly laugh to myself, exhaling. Remembering back to the first day I met Sanji and he told me that I didn't have the build or the look to make it in the ring.
Aleister: Sanji was a great guy. At first, I thought he was a bit of an asshole, but once you get to know him, you realize he's only doing it to push you. To make you into a better wrestler. Which is something I respect.
Sarah nods, slightly peering down at her notes.
Sarah: Okay. I remember reading an interview back in 2017, where he said you were both his favorite and least favorite person to work with. Tell me a little more about that.
I furrow my eyebrows, surprised that the interview even made it out of Japan. I won't deny it though, I was a bit of an asshole behind the scenes back then. Part of the reason Sanji was as harsh as he was on me. He just wanted to teach me life lessons as well as lessons inside of the ring.
Aleister: I can admit that I wasn't the easiest to work with. Especially when I was makin' my name in the industry because I felt like I had to be alpha. If I was going to be alpha in the ring, it made sense to be alpha outside of it too. Well, at least back then it did. Sanji taught me that WASN'T the case, and that it would serve me better to save the alpha shit for the ring.
Sarah: So, he told you to tone it down?
Aleister: Yes. I remember he would pull me aside after events and often tell me not to be a dick, otherwise, I would be out the door. Among other things that I probably can't say on TV.
Sarah shoots me a curious look but notices that I'm serious. There are things he said that I cannot reveal on TV. Unless they want their censors to be worked into overdrive. Such was the vulgarity of those statements.
Sarah: What was your favorite JPW match? For me, I loved your bout in Osaka against Katomi Zawa for the JPW Intercontinental title. Where does that rank for you?
Exhaling and internally laughing at how she changed the course of the discussion, I reflect back on this question. It's honestly not something I had really given that much thought to.
Aleister: I don't necessarily have a favorite. I haven't really given it much thought, though I loved being about to step into the ring with Kenzo Nakatami. Especially inside the Tokyo Dome.
Sarah attempts to recall that match, as the left corner of my mouth curls into a smile.
Sarah: I don't think I remember seeing that one, but I did see some reviews of it. What to you, makes that match so special?
I allow that question to marinate and settle before inhaling and sharply exhaling. Kenzo and I just clicked. There's really no other way to put it. I don't know what it was, but we just seemed to have a certain chemistry with one another that couldn't be replicated.
Aleister: It's hard to honestly put my finger on any one factor that makes the match so special. It's the combination of our natural chemistry, the aura, and the mystique of the Tokyo Dome itself. The anticipation of knowing what we were about to put on for the fans. The tension. The drama. It all added up and still remains with me to this day.
Sarah nods respectfully. Understanding how much the match truly did, and still does, mean to me. How much it helped craft me into the wrestler that I am today.
Sarah: So, it was the little things all adding up? Kind of like a puzzle, and all the pieces just fitting together?
I nod.
Aleister: Yes.
Sarah smiles, as she looks down at her notes. Then over at the production staff, who motions that they over have five minutes left until the next segment of the show is supposed to begin. She nods at them, before tilting her head over to me.
Sarah: One final question I have for you before we move onto the next segment is: Is there anyone opponent you would like to face again that you have in the past?
Without even a second of thought, I answer.
Aleister: Akiro Yazawa. I'd love to get the chance to step in the ring against him again. Get my revenge for him taking my IPW Junior Heavyweight title.
Sarah smiles, as I push my chair backward. Getting ready to leave the studio and head back to the hotel for some much-needed rest.
Sarah: Thanks for your time, Aleister. Good luck this week.
I stand up, as I swivel my body to the right, responding as I walk off.
Aleister: Thanks for having me.
I walk off the stage, the interview finally was done with. Knowing that all that's left now is for Showcase to roll around. So that I can finish the deal and walk out with the Pureblood championship safely atop my shoulder. First, however, is some rest and relaxation.
SCENE THREE.
I walk along 29th Avenue, coldly glancing straight ahead. A gentle smile across my face. Attired in a sandcastle colored linen t-shirt, jet black polyester basketball shorts, and navy blue Nike sneakers. A gentle breeze brushes against my skin, causing the hairs on my arm to stick up, whilst I maintain my steely, almost statue-like expression. Wanting to ensure that the OPW cameras that have been strategically set up atop tripods all up and down the avenue are able to catch me for the duration of this little walk.
Aleister: If you believe you can deny me. If you believe you can stop me from taking the Pureblood title this week, you're lying. Lying to yourself. Lying to those who claim to be your fans. Lying to me.
My feet hitting the concrete sidewalk, I exhale. It's true. Each and every person within this match is lying if they believe they have even a remote chance of walking out with the title. Of victory.
Aleister: Deep down, I think each of you in this match knows that. Realizes that, yet you attempt to convince yourself that you STILL have a chance. That you still hold a hope that you can make me eat my words. That you can somehow defy the odds and hold the title. Cradle it as if it were your own child.
I continue to walk leisurely, my eyes glancing at some of the victorian era inspired homes that reside within the avenue. A more vintage sort of location, within a city that provides them with solace and tranquility.
Aleister: I don't blame you. We all need some form of hope. Something to keep us motivated when everything is dead and gone. When we are questioning whether it is all worth it. Whether the reward is truly worth the risk. Whether the pleasure is worth the pain.
Pausing, I softly curl the left corner of my mouth up about twenty-five degrees. Maintaining my steely, emotionless expression otherwise.
Aleister: Yet hope can lead one astray, should it be misguided. Should it be all that guides you. Especially when you're forced to confront a man who merely wants to use all of you as an example. Just as I shall be using Demon X as an example earlier in the night.
I allow the words to float gently into the air as I exhale. Hoping that those in the battle royal. That Demon X truly listen to. Attempt to attain a fundamental understanding of what I am telling them. Of what they are coming up against at Showcase, because I don't think they realize. I don't think they truly understand who I am. Or just why they have been set up for failure.
Aleister: To you, this battle royal is an opportunity. A door that if you open, will enable you to hold the title belt you crave. A title that I crave as well. Yet to me, the battle royal is an exhibition. A true showcase of just why I am here. Just why you won't be able to deny me. You won't be able to ignore me once the smoke clears. Why nothing else matters to me but reminding you all just who I am.
Stopping in front of a brick fence that has an oak tree behind it, I take a look around. Soaking in the vintage, antique nature of this quiet avenue. Knowing that much like this road, I am heading along the path to where I need to be in this industry. A path, that starts by walking out of Showcase this week with the Pureblood championship in my possession. Smiling slightly, I allow the breeze to brush against my body before taking two steps forward.
Aleister: That nothing that anybody in this match can do, will be enough to deny me. It won't be enough to stop me from taking that belt and making it mine. From ruling the Pureblood division with an iron fist. You can try, but it'll only result in failure. It'll only result in agony and pain, as you lay on your backs. Questioning yourself as to why you couldn't get the job done.
I let out gentle, friendly laughter as I smile.
Aleister: Why you fell, at the hands of "Invictus". It is inevitable. Trust me.
I resume my brisk walk, having let everyone know. Having promised them that it was only a matter of time until they woke up. Until they would FINALLY see the truth. Until they all fall. One by one. Trust me.