Post by Daniel Holiday on Jun 12, 2020 16:50:43 GMT -5
[The return to Daniel, was always going to be a success. Even if he had failed to walk out with the victory. That's not what it was about to him. If he had lost, it would have been Alexis's means of proving she was ready to take hold of the proverbial 'torch' and run with it. Just as he had told her she would be. It would prove that the next generation of talent was chomping. Hungry and waiting for the torch to be passed to them.
Much like Daniel had been when Andre passed the torch to him in March of 2005. As long as he was able to extract the best out of Alexis. Force her to show him that he was right in his assessment of her. Prove to everybody else, that inside of the ring, she is as dangerous as anyone. Male or female. She more than stepped up to the challenge, just as Daniel held up his end of the bargain.
He told her that she would be getting "The Hallmark". The Daniel Holiday that had been at the pinnacle of the sport from 2004 to 2018 and not the Daniel who by his own admission, had been 'going through the motions' last year.
To Daniel, this was his way of proving that he still had it. Not just to his critics. Not just to his fans, but to himself. His means of clearing his mind and becoming more at peace with his decision to return to the ring. That he had shaken off the habits that plagued him in 2019, a year he classified as the worst in his career.
That his 8 months away from the ring, was the best decision he could have made for his career. To him, it rejuvenated the love he has for the industry. It helped him to 'rediscover his smile' and it allowed him to actually enjoy setting foot between the ropes once more. A feeling, that he had been yearning for. A feeling that he had lost. Now though, it has returned and now, the next step can truly begin.]
[It's a warm Tuesday morning, as the sun begins to shine through the glass window of the Hilton Cabana. Room 315 to be exact. A private room that for the most part, is only requested and booked by the highest calibre of guests. Diplomats, White House Staffers, Musicians and even Wrestlers. It is also known as the suite that Daniel Holiday requests every time he visits Miami Beach, regardless of whether it's a business or personal visit.
It's to the point where he's essentially on a 'first-name-basis' with most of the hotel staff and they pre-book the room as soon as he calls. Provided the room is vacant and available at the time, of course. Luckily, it usually is available. Just as it was this time.
The room itself, has a full city view out of the front window, snow-white plaster walls that are adorned with various posters of the city and its nighttime view. A forty-eight inch Samsung LCD TV sits atop a polished mahogany table about five feet and two inches from the window, a jet black DVD player in front of it. Six feet separates it from a chocolate brown one-seat leather couch, which Daniel is occupying.
Wearing a snow-white cotton t-shirt with a black design of a falcon on the left breast, stitched onto the fabric's surface, denim jeans and midnight black Reebok sneakers. Twelve feet to his right, is a king-sized bed, currently with a crimson red bed sheet protecting the mattress and a snow-white blanket draped atop of it.
Glancing towards it, Daniel yawns, still worn out from last night's in-ring return. Exhausted from the challenge provided by the plucky upstart known as Alexis Skye. The sort of challenge that Daniel knew he needed in order to show the OPW just why he was and still is known as the "Hallmark" of professional wrestling. A soft smile curls up across his lips, as he looks forward at the TV screen, which is currently switched off.]
Daniel Holiday-"Last night was a reminder that I still have it in the ring. That I truly am not done yet and not merely convincing myself that I still had something left in the tank. That I still had enough left to return to the industry that made me who I am. That I wasn't just lying to myself. It felt good being able to step between those ropes.
Being able to hear the adulation of the fans as I walked out from behind the curtain. Knowing that standing before me was an opponent that wanted to take my place. That wanted to prove me right when it came to my statement about the proverbial torch. Even if it didn't end up that way."
[Daniel shakes his head, realizing that he is merely trying to talk up Alexis, even though she was in no shape to compete. That she may as well have stayed home, yet that's just the type of person he is. Exhaling, he glances to his right, picking up the remote and turning the television on.]
Daniel Holiday-"Do I wish the match would have gone differently? Yes. I wish that as much as I talked her up, that Alexis wasn't as inebriated and intoxicated as she was. I can admit, I legitimately thought about walking away. I had proven that I could still compete, but at what cost?
Morally, Alexis should not have even been out there, even if she was hungry to prove she wanted the torch. It was obvious she physically and psychologically wasn't in a state to wrestle, but she wanted to regardless.
So, I obliged her but tried to make it as painless as I possibly could. It was the only thing I could do, considering the circumstances and situation."
[Daniel sees the flickering lights of the news come across the TV, turning the volume up slightly so that he can hear what they are discussing.]
Daniel Holiday-"It was the least I could do, especially as I held a duty of care to her. A duty, that extends to anybody who I set foot in the ring against, regardless of whoever they may be. It's part of the pact we make each and every time we set foot between those ropes. A promise we have made, in order to ensure that we can limit the number of injuries. The amount of permanent damage we inflict upon one another. To prevent unnecessary harm from befalling one of our own.
A pact, that I swore to uphold and continue to abide by. Just as every single wrestler who steps between those ropes should. Sometimes, it isn't about liking or disliking somebody or their actions. It's about ensuring the integrity and security of this industry remains one's core focus. Take care of others, as you wish for them to take care of you. Maintain the brotherhood."
[Sighing, Daniel hears the words "Aleister Davison" come out of the news anchor's mouth, slightly bristling at the sound of his name. A name, that he remembers from his time in the NWL. More specifically, the match the two had for Daniel's NWL world title. A match which Daniel won.
Laughing gently to himself, he continues to listen as the anchor talks about the subtle message Aleister sent during the show when he stated that someone was riding his coattails within OPW. Causing Dan to simply shake his head in amusement.]
Daniel Holiday-"Riding your coattails? If that's what will help you sleep at night, then go ahead. Think that. I think we both know the truth, however. As much as you might not wish to admit it to yourself."
[Exhaling, Daniel flashes a smile before another yawn leaves his mouth, this one elongated by the fact that there's next to no oxygen going to Daniel's brain currently. Not due to his lack of breathing, but due to the stale air within the hotel room. The result of Daniel electing not to open the windows. Thus making the room feel as if he is in a sauna.
Placing his hands softly atop each of the couches armrests, he elevates himself, calmly walking across the nylon wine-coloured carpet, Daniel decides to amend that fact and make his way over to the window. Soaking in the view of Miami Beach as he does.]
Daniel Holiday-"The view never gets old. No matter how many times I come here. Just like the fond memories, this city holds for me. Memories that I added to last night, no matter how it came about. For at the end of the day, a win is still a win. People only really remember that you won, not how you won.
..It's always been that way...
After all, this industry is oriented around results. Your status, your prestige hinges upon whether or not you win in any given match. If you are able to back up the words you state and reign supreme over those who are thrown in front of you. Whether or not you believe those results tell the full story. Whether or not you believe they dictate your status.
Your path inside of that ring. As much as we don't want it to be that way. As much as we tell ourselves that it's about entertainment. It's about going out there and putting it all on the line for the fans night in and night out, to those who matter. To those who hold the control, the end result is all that matters. It's a saddening truth we all have to confront. Whether or not we want to."
[Daniel continues to stare out the window, his eyes fixated on the Miami Beach skyline. He added another win to his legacy. Another notch under his belt at Showcase. That's all that will truly matter when people flip through the pages of history. When people look back upon his career with OPW.
Sighing to himself, his eyes begin to glimmer as the sunlight reflects off them and his mind drifts off into the distance. The first message sent. His return justified. The fears that he had lost his touch allayed, at least for the moment. Which is all he truly could have asked for.]
[Fatal-4-Way matches aren't new to Daniel. If he were to calculate accurately the number of 4-ways he has participated in during his career, the answer would be twenty-six. Winning seventeen of them and only being the one pinned in two.
The second one being for his then PWZ world title back in 2013, when his former friend turned rival Harrison Bryant was the one to walk out with the title. He knows the stipulation inside and out. The new, unknown portion of the match is the fact that it's an Ultimate X match.
A stipulation that Daniel has never partaken in before, at any point during his 16-year career within the industry. One of one three stipulation matches that hold that honour. Yet that is what he enjoys about wrestling. The fact that no matter how long he has been in the industry. No matter how many matches he has been in, there is always something new for him. There is always a door that has yet to be opened.
"The moment one stops learning, they are dead," is the quote best used to describe his approach to such a match. It also applies to how he approaches his study of all three opponents. Each of them as foreign to him as the stipulation. Each with their own story to tell.
There's The Enforcer, a part of the same faction as Alexis Skye. Associated with Insurgance and wanting to send a similar individual message to Daniel. That he too, isn't ready to "pass the torch" to the younger generation. A generation he has taken under his wing. Much like Daniel wishes to.
Or the jaded Iraqi Abdul Bin Hussain, who is looking to represent his culture and homeland with Pride. Something Daniel can relate with as well, considering he represents Canada each and every time he steps between the ropes.
Or Id. A self-proclaimed punk and anti-authority personality, who thrives in a situation like Ultimate X. Where lawlessness reigns supreme. To him, this match. This stipulation is like a playground. The nirvana that he has craved.
For Daniel, this is chaotic. Foreign. A battleground that he must navigate if he is to walk out with the win. If he is to continue his "Not Done Yet" tour. The only thing that's known, is that this is taking place in New York.
A location that unlike Miami Beach, hasn't been kind to him during his career. Just another part of the story. Another tale that has been woven into the match. Can Daniel overcome? Or will his momentum be cut down to size? That is the question.]
[It's a warm Thursday morning in the heart of New York. Central Park to be exact and birds can be seen flying above. Cars driving through the streets, with commuters attempting to head to work or heading away for their well-deserved summer vacations. Adults and children alike roam up and down the sidewalk, attempting to soak in the blend of sunshine and fresh air that such a venture generates.
Much like Daniel is doing, as he sits atop a freshly painted oak bench. One of the few benches that aren't sullied by graffiti within the park, attired in a burnt orange cotton t-shirt that has "Holiday Inn" written across the chest in midnight black comic sans font, denim jeans with a jet black leather belt, and royal blue Adidas sneakers.
Gazing around, he watches as about thirty people walk down the concrete path about seven feet in front of him. Each of differing ages and differing reasons, yet each bringing a smile to his face.]
Daniel Holiday-"I love just watching people walk by. Each with their own, unique story to tell. Whether that be their commute to work. Them being out with their children or just trying to get some time away from the daily hassle of the city, it always captivates me to understand. To learn about their rationale. The method behind their actions. Much like each and every wrestler who sets foot between those ropes.
...We all have our stories to tell...
We all have catalysts. Motivations. Reasons behind every act we partake in when within our own, secure bubble. We are all just like these people who wander through the park. Just waiting for the next chapter. The next act within our lives to be written. Our names to be called forward and our story told to the world."
[Exhaling, Daniel's facial expression showcases his overall reflective emotional state. His eyes remaining fixated on the path.]
Daniel Holiday-"To most people, this path is simple. It is a route from point A to point B. From one side of the park to the other. No frills. No style. Just starting point and destination. Same with wrestling.
Imagine the starting point being the position we are in now and the destination being the Stairway to heaven match. The reward, should I come out on top this week. If I am the one who is victorious within Ultimate X."
[Daniel points to both locations. The starting point with his right hand and the destination with his left, before placing his hands back by his side.]
Daniel Holiday-"Unlike this path, however, my passage to that destination isn't as simple as mere strolling through. Stopping to occasionally look at and admire the sights and sounds."
[Daniel shakes his head, before regathering his focus.]
Daniel Holiday-"No. My path includes having to face off. Defeat three men who each hold the same goals. The same aspirations as I do.
...All of whom wish for their story to be the one told...
For their journey to be the one that reaches its destination. Just as I do. I respect that, I admire that. After all, that is what wrestling is when you boil it down to nothing more than its roots. It is about each party, wanting their story.
Their truth to be the one broadcast to the masses. Laid out before the world. It's why we set foot between those ropes and compete, each and every night. It's why we put our livelihoods. Our bodies on the line.
...It's why I say I'm not done yet...
Why my story, still has chapters. Acts that are left to be written. Portrayed before my very own eyes. I still haven't reached my destination."
[Another sigh leaves the Canadian legend's lips. This one deeper and more profound than the one prior. His words carrying a reflective tone and inflection.]
Daniel Holiday-"Yet I wish to know, what are your truths? Enforcer, what is your truth? Are you seeking the self-validation that the industry hasn't passed you by? The evidence that you can still be an example to the masses? Just like me? Are you seeking the window in order to bring about the Insurgences's rise in OPW?To hold the belt that holds all the power? Or are you doing this because you want that last hurrah? The last ride off into the sunset? Your career has been about scratching.
Clawing. Working your way from the streets of Brooklyn and making your name. Surviving a culture from which many cannot flee. I respect that. I admire you for that. It takes a true man to acknowledge their past and grow. Thrive beyond it and use it as motivation to better themselves.
Abdul, what is your truth? Is it to bring honour and respect to the Muslim culture? To the nation of Iraq? To finally[/b] be the impetus that breaks down the cultural barriers placed before you? All those are noble and honourable desires. Ones that becoming a world champion would help to fulfill, even if I don't believe in the idealogy.
Id, what is your truth? Do you wish for the world to be ruled by anarchy? Do you wish to be the leader of a new age movement? Do you wish to be a martyr to your cause? Just like Abdul, those are noble causes. I may not agree with the idealogy, but I respect those who hold passion. Who understand their destination and their truth. The portrait they wish to be portrayed as.
Each of you understands yourselves. You know just what your destination is and what lays before you this week. However, can each of you state that you know your enemies? That you know not only your own truth but my truth as well? How about each of the other two's truths?"
[Daniel exhales.]
Daniel Holiday-"If you don't, then you cannot take that next step. You will not be able to reach your true destination. For their truth and their application shall prevail. That is the art of war. That is the attrition within the war.
Knowing our own truth is never enough within wrestling. We must be able to know and perceive our opponent's truths as well. I must be able to know your truth, just as you must be able to know my truth. Good luck Enforcer, Abdul and Id. I will see you all at Highway to Hell."
[Daniel rises, glancing at the path once more. A path, that resembles his route to the Stairway to Heaven. An opportunity, to add another world championship to his name, as the flame of his career begins to dwindle. An opportunity, that could be the last time he gets a sniff of glory. All he has to do is survive Ultimate X.]
Much like Daniel had been when Andre passed the torch to him in March of 2005. As long as he was able to extract the best out of Alexis. Force her to show him that he was right in his assessment of her. Prove to everybody else, that inside of the ring, she is as dangerous as anyone. Male or female. She more than stepped up to the challenge, just as Daniel held up his end of the bargain.
He told her that she would be getting "The Hallmark". The Daniel Holiday that had been at the pinnacle of the sport from 2004 to 2018 and not the Daniel who by his own admission, had been 'going through the motions' last year.
To Daniel, this was his way of proving that he still had it. Not just to his critics. Not just to his fans, but to himself. His means of clearing his mind and becoming more at peace with his decision to return to the ring. That he had shaken off the habits that plagued him in 2019, a year he classified as the worst in his career.
That his 8 months away from the ring, was the best decision he could have made for his career. To him, it rejuvenated the love he has for the industry. It helped him to 'rediscover his smile' and it allowed him to actually enjoy setting foot between the ropes once more. A feeling, that he had been yearning for. A feeling that he had lost. Now though, it has returned and now, the next step can truly begin.]
[It's a warm Tuesday morning, as the sun begins to shine through the glass window of the Hilton Cabana. Room 315 to be exact. A private room that for the most part, is only requested and booked by the highest calibre of guests. Diplomats, White House Staffers, Musicians and even Wrestlers. It is also known as the suite that Daniel Holiday requests every time he visits Miami Beach, regardless of whether it's a business or personal visit.
It's to the point where he's essentially on a 'first-name-basis' with most of the hotel staff and they pre-book the room as soon as he calls. Provided the room is vacant and available at the time, of course. Luckily, it usually is available. Just as it was this time.
The room itself, has a full city view out of the front window, snow-white plaster walls that are adorned with various posters of the city and its nighttime view. A forty-eight inch Samsung LCD TV sits atop a polished mahogany table about five feet and two inches from the window, a jet black DVD player in front of it. Six feet separates it from a chocolate brown one-seat leather couch, which Daniel is occupying.
Wearing a snow-white cotton t-shirt with a black design of a falcon on the left breast, stitched onto the fabric's surface, denim jeans and midnight black Reebok sneakers. Twelve feet to his right, is a king-sized bed, currently with a crimson red bed sheet protecting the mattress and a snow-white blanket draped atop of it.
Glancing towards it, Daniel yawns, still worn out from last night's in-ring return. Exhausted from the challenge provided by the plucky upstart known as Alexis Skye. The sort of challenge that Daniel knew he needed in order to show the OPW just why he was and still is known as the "Hallmark" of professional wrestling. A soft smile curls up across his lips, as he looks forward at the TV screen, which is currently switched off.]
Daniel Holiday-"Last night was a reminder that I still have it in the ring. That I truly am not done yet and not merely convincing myself that I still had something left in the tank. That I still had enough left to return to the industry that made me who I am. That I wasn't just lying to myself. It felt good being able to step between those ropes.
Being able to hear the adulation of the fans as I walked out from behind the curtain. Knowing that standing before me was an opponent that wanted to take my place. That wanted to prove me right when it came to my statement about the proverbial torch. Even if it didn't end up that way."
[Daniel shakes his head, realizing that he is merely trying to talk up Alexis, even though she was in no shape to compete. That she may as well have stayed home, yet that's just the type of person he is. Exhaling, he glances to his right, picking up the remote and turning the television on.]
Daniel Holiday-"Do I wish the match would have gone differently? Yes. I wish that as much as I talked her up, that Alexis wasn't as inebriated and intoxicated as she was. I can admit, I legitimately thought about walking away. I had proven that I could still compete, but at what cost?
Morally, Alexis should not have even been out there, even if she was hungry to prove she wanted the torch. It was obvious she physically and psychologically wasn't in a state to wrestle, but she wanted to regardless.
So, I obliged her but tried to make it as painless as I possibly could. It was the only thing I could do, considering the circumstances and situation."
[Daniel sees the flickering lights of the news come across the TV, turning the volume up slightly so that he can hear what they are discussing.]
Daniel Holiday-"It was the least I could do, especially as I held a duty of care to her. A duty, that extends to anybody who I set foot in the ring against, regardless of whoever they may be. It's part of the pact we make each and every time we set foot between those ropes. A promise we have made, in order to ensure that we can limit the number of injuries. The amount of permanent damage we inflict upon one another. To prevent unnecessary harm from befalling one of our own.
A pact, that I swore to uphold and continue to abide by. Just as every single wrestler who steps between those ropes should. Sometimes, it isn't about liking or disliking somebody or their actions. It's about ensuring the integrity and security of this industry remains one's core focus. Take care of others, as you wish for them to take care of you. Maintain the brotherhood."
[Sighing, Daniel hears the words "Aleister Davison" come out of the news anchor's mouth, slightly bristling at the sound of his name. A name, that he remembers from his time in the NWL. More specifically, the match the two had for Daniel's NWL world title. A match which Daniel won.
Laughing gently to himself, he continues to listen as the anchor talks about the subtle message Aleister sent during the show when he stated that someone was riding his coattails within OPW. Causing Dan to simply shake his head in amusement.]
Daniel Holiday-"Riding your coattails? If that's what will help you sleep at night, then go ahead. Think that. I think we both know the truth, however. As much as you might not wish to admit it to yourself."
[Exhaling, Daniel flashes a smile before another yawn leaves his mouth, this one elongated by the fact that there's next to no oxygen going to Daniel's brain currently. Not due to his lack of breathing, but due to the stale air within the hotel room. The result of Daniel electing not to open the windows. Thus making the room feel as if he is in a sauna.
Placing his hands softly atop each of the couches armrests, he elevates himself, calmly walking across the nylon wine-coloured carpet, Daniel decides to amend that fact and make his way over to the window. Soaking in the view of Miami Beach as he does.]
Daniel Holiday-"The view never gets old. No matter how many times I come here. Just like the fond memories, this city holds for me. Memories that I added to last night, no matter how it came about. For at the end of the day, a win is still a win. People only really remember that you won, not how you won.
..It's always been that way...
After all, this industry is oriented around results. Your status, your prestige hinges upon whether or not you win in any given match. If you are able to back up the words you state and reign supreme over those who are thrown in front of you. Whether or not you believe those results tell the full story. Whether or not you believe they dictate your status.
Your path inside of that ring. As much as we don't want it to be that way. As much as we tell ourselves that it's about entertainment. It's about going out there and putting it all on the line for the fans night in and night out, to those who matter. To those who hold the control, the end result is all that matters. It's a saddening truth we all have to confront. Whether or not we want to."
[Daniel continues to stare out the window, his eyes fixated on the Miami Beach skyline. He added another win to his legacy. Another notch under his belt at Showcase. That's all that will truly matter when people flip through the pages of history. When people look back upon his career with OPW.
Sighing to himself, his eyes begin to glimmer as the sunlight reflects off them and his mind drifts off into the distance. The first message sent. His return justified. The fears that he had lost his touch allayed, at least for the moment. Which is all he truly could have asked for.]
[Fatal-4-Way matches aren't new to Daniel. If he were to calculate accurately the number of 4-ways he has participated in during his career, the answer would be twenty-six. Winning seventeen of them and only being the one pinned in two.
The second one being for his then PWZ world title back in 2013, when his former friend turned rival Harrison Bryant was the one to walk out with the title. He knows the stipulation inside and out. The new, unknown portion of the match is the fact that it's an Ultimate X match.
A stipulation that Daniel has never partaken in before, at any point during his 16-year career within the industry. One of one three stipulation matches that hold that honour. Yet that is what he enjoys about wrestling. The fact that no matter how long he has been in the industry. No matter how many matches he has been in, there is always something new for him. There is always a door that has yet to be opened.
"The moment one stops learning, they are dead," is the quote best used to describe his approach to such a match. It also applies to how he approaches his study of all three opponents. Each of them as foreign to him as the stipulation. Each with their own story to tell.
There's The Enforcer, a part of the same faction as Alexis Skye. Associated with Insurgance and wanting to send a similar individual message to Daniel. That he too, isn't ready to "pass the torch" to the younger generation. A generation he has taken under his wing. Much like Daniel wishes to.
Or the jaded Iraqi Abdul Bin Hussain, who is looking to represent his culture and homeland with Pride. Something Daniel can relate with as well, considering he represents Canada each and every time he steps between the ropes.
Or Id. A self-proclaimed punk and anti-authority personality, who thrives in a situation like Ultimate X. Where lawlessness reigns supreme. To him, this match. This stipulation is like a playground. The nirvana that he has craved.
For Daniel, this is chaotic. Foreign. A battleground that he must navigate if he is to walk out with the win. If he is to continue his "Not Done Yet" tour. The only thing that's known, is that this is taking place in New York.
A location that unlike Miami Beach, hasn't been kind to him during his career. Just another part of the story. Another tale that has been woven into the match. Can Daniel overcome? Or will his momentum be cut down to size? That is the question.]
[It's a warm Thursday morning in the heart of New York. Central Park to be exact and birds can be seen flying above. Cars driving through the streets, with commuters attempting to head to work or heading away for their well-deserved summer vacations. Adults and children alike roam up and down the sidewalk, attempting to soak in the blend of sunshine and fresh air that such a venture generates.
Much like Daniel is doing, as he sits atop a freshly painted oak bench. One of the few benches that aren't sullied by graffiti within the park, attired in a burnt orange cotton t-shirt that has "Holiday Inn" written across the chest in midnight black comic sans font, denim jeans with a jet black leather belt, and royal blue Adidas sneakers.
Gazing around, he watches as about thirty people walk down the concrete path about seven feet in front of him. Each of differing ages and differing reasons, yet each bringing a smile to his face.]
Daniel Holiday-"I love just watching people walk by. Each with their own, unique story to tell. Whether that be their commute to work. Them being out with their children or just trying to get some time away from the daily hassle of the city, it always captivates me to understand. To learn about their rationale. The method behind their actions. Much like each and every wrestler who sets foot between those ropes.
...We all have our stories to tell...
We all have catalysts. Motivations. Reasons behind every act we partake in when within our own, secure bubble. We are all just like these people who wander through the park. Just waiting for the next chapter. The next act within our lives to be written. Our names to be called forward and our story told to the world."
[Exhaling, Daniel's facial expression showcases his overall reflective emotional state. His eyes remaining fixated on the path.]
Daniel Holiday-"To most people, this path is simple. It is a route from point A to point B. From one side of the park to the other. No frills. No style. Just starting point and destination. Same with wrestling.
Imagine the starting point being the position we are in now and the destination being the Stairway to heaven match. The reward, should I come out on top this week. If I am the one who is victorious within Ultimate X."
[Daniel points to both locations. The starting point with his right hand and the destination with his left, before placing his hands back by his side.]
Daniel Holiday-"Unlike this path, however, my passage to that destination isn't as simple as mere strolling through. Stopping to occasionally look at and admire the sights and sounds."
[Daniel shakes his head, before regathering his focus.]
Daniel Holiday-"No. My path includes having to face off. Defeat three men who each hold the same goals. The same aspirations as I do.
...All of whom wish for their story to be the one told...
For their journey to be the one that reaches its destination. Just as I do. I respect that, I admire that. After all, that is what wrestling is when you boil it down to nothing more than its roots. It is about each party, wanting their story.
Their truth to be the one broadcast to the masses. Laid out before the world. It's why we set foot between those ropes and compete, each and every night. It's why we put our livelihoods. Our bodies on the line.
...It's why I say I'm not done yet...
Why my story, still has chapters. Acts that are left to be written. Portrayed before my very own eyes. I still haven't reached my destination."
[Another sigh leaves the Canadian legend's lips. This one deeper and more profound than the one prior. His words carrying a reflective tone and inflection.]
Daniel Holiday-"Yet I wish to know, what are your truths? Enforcer, what is your truth? Are you seeking the self-validation that the industry hasn't passed you by? The evidence that you can still be an example to the masses? Just like me? Are you seeking the window in order to bring about the Insurgences's rise in OPW?To hold the belt that holds all the power? Or are you doing this because you want that last hurrah? The last ride off into the sunset? Your career has been about scratching.
Clawing. Working your way from the streets of Brooklyn and making your name. Surviving a culture from which many cannot flee. I respect that. I admire you for that. It takes a true man to acknowledge their past and grow. Thrive beyond it and use it as motivation to better themselves.
Abdul, what is your truth? Is it to bring honour and respect to the Muslim culture? To the nation of Iraq? To finally[/b] be the impetus that breaks down the cultural barriers placed before you? All those are noble and honourable desires. Ones that becoming a world champion would help to fulfill, even if I don't believe in the idealogy.
Id, what is your truth? Do you wish for the world to be ruled by anarchy? Do you wish to be the leader of a new age movement? Do you wish to be a martyr to your cause? Just like Abdul, those are noble causes. I may not agree with the idealogy, but I respect those who hold passion. Who understand their destination and their truth. The portrait they wish to be portrayed as.
Each of you understands yourselves. You know just what your destination is and what lays before you this week. However, can each of you state that you know your enemies? That you know not only your own truth but my truth as well? How about each of the other two's truths?"
[Daniel exhales.]
Daniel Holiday-"If you don't, then you cannot take that next step. You will not be able to reach your true destination. For their truth and their application shall prevail. That is the art of war. That is the attrition within the war.
Knowing our own truth is never enough within wrestling. We must be able to know and perceive our opponent's truths as well. I must be able to know your truth, just as you must be able to know my truth. Good luck Enforcer, Abdul and Id. I will see you all at Highway to Hell."
[Daniel rises, glancing at the path once more. A path, that resembles his route to the Stairway to Heaven. An opportunity, to add another world championship to his name, as the flame of his career begins to dwindle. An opportunity, that could be the last time he gets a sniff of glory. All he has to do is survive Ultimate X.]