EP.: 220
DATE: 02.10.2025
ARENA: THE EPICENTER
The crowd’s murmuring with anticipation as the opening moments of Revolution 220 are on their way, and as the lights come up, Eryk Masters and Jason Johnson get a big pop when they appear at the top of the ramp and make their way down to their broadcast positions. Revolution sometimes uses old themes just to get the crowd hyped up, so tonight is a “Schism” by Tool night. A callback to an old era.
When Johnson and Masters reach the commentary desk, the show comes to life and the production is in full swing.
Jason Johnson: Revolution 220! This is it, E! This is the last one of these before we head into Reckoning Day, and that’s big time.
Eryk Masters: You got that right. We’ve got some big things coming up tonight, some hints towards what’s going to happen later this month at Reckoning Day, and we’re kicking things off with an odd-couple pairing of a match if I’ve ever seen one.
Jason Johnson: When you really think about it, is it though? I mean, Cormac Nelson, son of a legend links up with Josh Kaine… the son of another legend… against Breedlove, who’s carrying out a crusade against ANOTHER legend.
Eryk Masters: I suppose when you put it that way-
“MAKE WAY FOR THE KING”
Before Eryk can finish his thought, he’s interrupted and the crowd goes from happy to angry at the hint of Joshua Breedlove to come. Breedlove appears at the top of the ramp, dressed and ready to compete. The change to a more black on black gear look was not an accident, as that’s what he’s sporting tonight, and naturally… he’s got a microphone in his hand.
Joshua Breedlove: I’ll spare you all the Jason Johnson and Eryk Masters rundown. Shew. Anyway. Here’s what’s about to happen, and it’s going to be an education for all of you clownshoes second generation or worse SHOOT Project sperm pets in how to build up your opponent and make things seem way more important than they actually are.
He adopts a fairly leisurely gait as he makes his way down the ramp.
Joshua Breedlove: The battle lines have been drawn. Cormac Nelson, part of the legendary family behind Long Island Hardcore, is striking out on his own and looking to make his way through the shadows and into his own kind of light. In doing so, he has linked up with Josh Kaine, who has apparently been confused about what happened to him for two weeks, and who is also carving his own path through SHOOT Project history.
He pauses, letting the words linger and allowing the gravity to steep.
Joshua Breedlove: They’ve both committed their strength to Laura Seton, legendary SHOOT Project World Heavyweight Champion, a decision that I find disappointing but if things are viewed through a truly simple, black and white lens… they make sense. Very simple, very basic, but at their core… logical. Laura Seton needs all the help that she can get because there is an Empire, my empire, with her dead in their sights and we’ve certainly outpaced her in the arms race.
He’s reached the bottom of the ramp and is looking towards the ring.
Joshua Breedlove: For me, I have to make sure that I’m tight in that ring. I know that a simple misstep means that I lose to Cormac Nelson, and that would be… a setback. Cormac Nelson is sneaky capable, but Joshua Breedlove is who he is for a reason and so I’m going to educate the masses, Josh Kaine, and Cormac Nelson on what being in the ring with me looks like. I expect a fight, but I LOVE a fight. I LOVE getting in the middle of that ring and just being better.
He slides under the bottom rope and gets to his feet, microphone still in hand.
Joshua Breedlove: I don’t need bullshit tactics or underhanded nonsense to win, because for everything I am, I’m also a student of this game and I respect this industry. That’s why I know I’m in for a fight. It sounded like there was some underestimation happening in my direction, so allow me to be the professor and get the fuck down here for your lesson. It’s time for “Joshua Breedlove 101”.
The music cuts, he leans against the top rope, and hands the microphone off to Samantha Coil as he waits for his opponent.
SINGLES MATCH
CORMAC NELSON
VS.
JOSHUA BREEDLOVE
POST MATCH
CONTINUING EDUCATION
Jason Johnson: Breedlove takes it here, completing what he would call his lesson. How do you think Nelson handled Breedlove 101?
Eryk Masters: He held up for a long time, but Breedlove is a former two time World Heavyweight Champion for a reason and he showed that tonight.
Jason Johnson: If you’re Josh Kaine, what’s your takeaw-
Jason is interrupted by the sound of “popping” on a microphone as Joshua Breedlove once again has THE STICK~! He’s rolled out of the ring and is over by the commentary desk fooling around with a chair.
Joshua Breedlove: So, I was right. Cormac Nelson is extremely formidable. I think he surprised himself in that ring; he definitely surprised me, but at the end of the day… you need more than that to come up with a win against me. Still, no shade from me. That was exactly what I needed, more than I thought it would be, and you’re welcome for raising your profile just that little bit more.
He gets a chair away from the commentary desk and takes a seat, putting his legs up on the barricade.
Joshua Breedlove: Now then. I know that Josh Kaine is fighting Tristan Keith next and since I’m here already, as a matter of convenience, I thought it might be a good idea from a scouting perspective to, you know. Scout. There’s something about Kaine that I haven’t yet put my finger on, so maybe… maybe I get my answers here. Also…
He looks over to Jason and Eryk.
Joshua Breedlove: Can you guys participate or should I petition for commentary salary too??
Jason shakes his head, slightly chuckling, while Masters looks annoyed.
Joshua Breedlove: Well, go on.
Eryk Masters: Alright then.
Jason Johnson: As mentioned, next we’ve got Tristan Keith in his second match as a SHOOT Project soldier against Josh Kaine. Keith had a successful debut at Revolution 219 against former World Champion NEMESIS and he’s looking to ride that momentum wave forward.
Eryk Masters: Kaine’s putting together a pretty good match profile as well. Yes, he lost to King Oso last time out, but he’s a true warrior and clearly isn’t afraid of the challenge that Keith presents.
Joshua Breedlove interrupts once more.
Joshua Breedlove: Hey, guys? I’m seeing the signals from production that y’all are talking too much. Let’s get this show on the road.
The crowd boos at Breedlove, causing a cheshire smile to cross his lips, and the wait for Kaine and Keith is about at an end.
SINGLES MATCH
TRISTAN KEITH
VS.
JOSH KAINE
IN THE RING
TAKES A BOTTOM TO KNOW A BOTTOM
Eryk Masters: We’ve got a great one coming up here shortly, folks, as King Oso, WASP, and Aiden Vanity are about to face off for a chance at the Sin City Championship at Reckoning Day!
Jason Johnson: The first of two triple-threat matches this evening, Eryk, and if I’m Remy Garden, I’m-
PINK.
The whole arena suddenly turns as pink as a Mean Girls’ Wednesday and… perfume? Begins to filter in through the Epicenter’s HVAC system.
Eryk Masters: Oh god. It’s my worst nightmare.
Jason Johnson: What is..
Eryk Masters: Any second, Uma Thurman is about to walk down that ramp dressed as Poison Ivy from Batman and Robin, make her way to this desk, and when she does, she will have Arnold Schwarzenegger’s voice and berate me with horrible gardening puns like “Why don’t you turn over a new leaf” or “Don’t worry, everything will be just vine.”
Jason Johnson: This is… a common… nightmare you have?
Eryk Masters: For almost 30 years, Jason. THIRTY!
Suddenly, a burst of flower petals begin to rain down from the rafters like confetti as a smooth, silk voice appears over the loudspeakers.
Voice: Looks like this bottom just became… a top.
Eryk Masters: Oh thank God.
Jason Johnson: That was categorically worse.
“Truly, Madly, Deeply” begins to play over the loudspeakers as Remy “Savage” Garden emerges from the back, waiving to the crowd, as the Sin City Championship hangs somewhat loosely around his hips, which are, themselves, covered by a pink satin robe.
Fans in the front rows begin to throw roses toward the ramp, lining his path toward the ring like a regal king.
Remy pauses just before he reaches the ring and bends down to snatch a fallen rose, bringing it up and running it sensually across his face – causing his robe to slip open ever so slightly to reveal his well-toned chest, causing a high-pitched scream from the women in attendance.
Eryk Masters: Should you tell them or should I?
Jason Johnson: As long as they keep buying single-stem roses for $5.99 a pop, we’re not telling them a damned thing, Eryk.
Remy makes his way in the ring, snagging a microphone as he does, and waits for the music to fade before taking in the scene as the arena erupts with cheers. It’s almost too much for him as he wipes away tears with his free hand.
Remy Garden: SHOOT Project… I have made my time here so much about my ties to “The Big Easy” but… mon dieu… life in New Orleans was anything but.
Remy lowers the microphone, trying to keep his composure.
Remy Garden: To be honest, this title? It’s the first award, reward, or championship of any kind that I’ve been able… no, that I’ve been allowed to attain. And for that, for you… and for this moment, I am-
“You Give Love A Bad Name” by Bon Jovi blares through the speakers, drawing jeers from the crowd as Aiden Vanity emerges… no… struts out from behind the curtain.
With a smug grin, he swaggers confidently onto the stage, teasing a fan’s handshake at ringside—only to pull away at the last second and run a hand through his perfectly styled hair before he continues toward the ring.
He ascends the steps and circles Rem before snatching the mic from the Sin City Champion’s hands. As the music cuts, the jeers from the crowd only get louder but he ignores the reaction and makes direct eye contact with his newly found rival.
Aiden Vanity: You being anywhere near this company is already an insult, but the fact that you’re walking around with championship gold around your waist is downright offensive.
The crowd roars in disapproval but Aiden waves away their animosity with a smug grin.
Aiden Vanity: Oh come on! You all know it as well as I do. If this is some kind of joke, then where’s the punchline? Because I’m not laughing.
Aiden turns his attention from the crowd and back to Remy with a sneer.
Aiden Vanity: You know who is a joke, though? You, Remy. Not only did you steal a band’s name and slap it onto your own, but you had the audacity to come out to their music. Do you have a single original thought in that hollow skull of yours? Now you think you’re on top of the world because you accidentally won the Sin City Championship. That was a fluke, and deep down, even you know it.
The crowd leans in with anticipation, watching as Remy Garden stares back in befuddlement at Aiden Vanity before reaching forward with a burst of energy and snatching his microphone back to an eruption of cheers.
Remy Garden: You know, even to those who would choose to dismiss me, my Cajun upbringing would still encourage me to extend the formality of referring to you as “cher” but I’d not sully such a truly iconic diva’s legacy by attaching it to such a pedestrian name.
You may want to turn back time right about now, Aiden, because I can feel something inside me say that I really don’t think you’re strong enough to face the Fortune Queen of New Orleans.
The crowd roars as Remy finishes his melody of lyrics from the iconic diva songstress, glaring at Aiden Vanity who looks positively wounded, and, honestly, confused. Remy, ever the gentleman, hands the microphone back to Aiden, who grows even more agitated at the gesture.
Aiden Vanity: Am I supposed to know those references?! Like I said. You’re a fluke holding that belt – keeping it warm for a true champion, like me! These people deserve to see what a true champion looks like!
The edges of Remy’s lips form a grin as he lowers his head, his perfectly shiny auburn hair falling over his shoulders before he runs a finger through each strand like the strings of a harp.
The champion looks Aiden Vanity in the eyes and reaches down, unbuckling the Sin City Championship from his waist and holding it up high as the crowd noise grows so loud it drowns out all but the piped in audio from the microphone currently being held by Aiden Vanity.
Aiden Vanity: You can hold up that title high like the Statue of Liberty all you want, but eventually you’ll crumble under pressure. Once I’m done steamrolling through these masked nobodies because let’s be honest, only ugly people hide their faces—I’ll rip that championship right from your hands and when I do, I won’t just be a champion—I’ll be the champion. The kind of champion this company needs, not some sentimental, second-rate stand-up act like you. So enjoy your precious moment while it lasts, because soon, the only thing people will remember about your reign is how easily I ended it.
Remy adjusts his robe and places the Sin City Championship back around his waist as he mouths something to Aiden that only the camera picks up before walking backwards toward the ring ropes with a smirk.
Remy Garden: I don’t think so, baby. It takes a bottom to know a bottom… and I’m not ready to stop being on top just yet.
Aiden’s face recoils in disgust as Remy just laughs, his entrance music cueing up before stepping through the ring ropes and leaving the next potential Sin City Championship contender seething as he prepares to face King Oso and WASP.
TRIPLE THREAT MATCH
SPOT 2 OF 2 FOR SIN CITY CHAMPIONSHIP AT RECKONING DAY
KING OSO
WASP
AIDEN VANITY
Backstage
I DON'T GET IT
The World Heavyweight Champion was confused. It took quite the situation to throw Laura Seton for a loop, but what was happening this evening after the Philadelphia Eagles captured their second Super Bowl.
Laura Seton: X!??
She wasn’t “panicked” as she searched the halls, but something in her didn’t feel right. She comes across an Epicenter backstage assistant.
Laura Seton: I don’t suppose you’ve seen X-Calibur this evening, have you?
Assistant: I can’t say I have, Ms. Seton. Is there any reason you’re looking for him.
Laura Seton: Not exactly, I guess. Just want to see how he is. Okay… well, thanks.
She continues walking. That wasn’t exactly a whole truth.
Laura Seton: It’s two weeks before the biggest event of the year and you’re telling me he’s not here?? I’m sure he’ll have a match at Reckoning Day. It’s not like him to at least not call any rando out…
An idea pops into her head. She takes a turn and heads for the private Epicenter entrance. One only for wrestlers and employees. She happens upon the security guard.
Laura Seton: I’m sorry, but do you have a moment?
Security Guard: Good evening again, Laura. What can I do for you?
Laura Seton: Out of curiosity… did you see if X-Calibur ever came in tonight? It’s not like him to miss a show when he’s on the active roster.
The guard reaches for a clipboard with a few sheets of paper attached.
Security Guard: I haven’t seen him myself. You can take a look at the sign-in sheet if you’d like.
Laura takes a quick look. A full listing of signatures of those that entered the Epicenter since its doors opened today. Her eyebrows raise as she sees various names…
Laura Seton: Heh… I haven’t seen Maddie either… Hmmm…
And doesn’t see certain others. Her mouth goes ajar in disbelief as she hands the clipboard back.
Laura Seton: Huh… He’s not here. I don’t get it. I hope he’s okay… Thanks.
She gives a polite nod before heading back towards the locker rooms. X-Calibur indeed was not in the building, nor had he ever shown up today. Though she had her match at the end of the evening, this was going to be planted somewhere in the back of her mind.
Backstage
SOLIDIFY
Cut to the curtain area. Josh Johnson and Eddie E. sit behind a table, watching the monitors in the background. Mary Kelly stands in the foreground with a microphone in hand, looking at the camera with her piercing blue eyes and short pixie cut hair.
Mary Kelly: The SHOOT Project has been the home of many outstanding tag teams throughout the years, from The Beautiful People and Instant Heat down to the Unholy Cyber Army and The Coltons or more recently, our current Tag Team Champions, The Devil’s Advocates. But one tag team stands just moments away from a shot at solidifying their names amongst the best of the SHOOT Project’s tremendous history. Joining me tonight before their match…The Collins Twins.
Michael and Rowland Collins join Mary Kelly on her left side, each of them wearing an Empire t-shirt. Michael’s longer hair and long tights differentiate him from his more clean-cut brother. The fans in the arena lay down a smattering of boos.
Mary Kelly: Michael and Rowland, thank you for giving me some time.
Michael Collins: Anything for you, Mary.
Rowland smacks his brother on the chest with the back of his hand. Michael rubs the area, but Rowland leans down to talk.
Rowland Collins: What my brother means is, we’re thankful for this time, and that wonderful introduction. One thing that stuck out to me Mary, and I don’t think you meant any disrespect by it because we’ve never had any sort of issue in the past, is that you think winning the SHOOT Project World Tag Team Championships will “solidify” us as one of the best tag teams in SHOOT Project’s history?
Rowland uses air-quotes around the word “solidify”. Michael sucks his top teeth a few times, shaking his head.
Michael Collins: We already are. I’m sure that was just a slip of the tongue when she said that though, Rolly.
Rowland Collins: I think that’s absolutely what it was, and that’s okay, Mary. I understand the slip up. We’ve stood toe to toe with the best that SHOOT Project had, has, and will have to offer. But you see, we’ve bled more for this company than most interviewers see in their lifetimes. Of course, should we win tonight, we’re more than ready to bleed some more against The Devil’s Advocates at Reckoning Day.
Michael Collins: And walk out with the SHOOT Project World Tag Team Championships for the first time in our careers. See, Joshua Breedlove promised us big things when we took his black envelope, and just over a month in we’re getting title opportunities.
Rowland Collins: Ones that we’ve been working our entire lives for at that.
Michael and Rowland share a glance.
Rowland Collins: The Neon Saints were paraded around SHOOT Project as the Next Great Tag Team, but tonight we show that even the Next Great Tag Team isn’t a match for The Collins Twins. Tonight, we show that The Collins Twins are SHOOT Project’s past, present, and future.
Michael Collins: And when we walk into Reckoning Day against The Devil’s Advocates, we’ll thank the Neon Saints for their contributions to the Tag Team division here in the SHOOT Project.
Rowland Collins: As miniscule as they were.
Michael Collins: As they have to climb their way back up from the bottom of the ladder to the top where we rightfully stand.
Michael looks at Rowland, Rowland extends a fist. The two fist bump and walk past Mary Kelly on the way to the ring, leaving her standing in front of the camera. The camera fades to the ring.
TAG TEAM MATCH
WORLD TAG TEAM TITLE CHANCE @ RECKONING DAY
ROWLAND COLLINS
MICHAEL COLLINS
VS.
DJ SAINT
STEVIE SAINT
POST MATCH
Just as the bell rings, Arthur Pleasant is already halfway down to the ring with a microphone in hand.
Arthur Pleasant: Don’t even think about playing their music!
“BOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”
Flashing that evil grin, Arthur looks out towards Michael and Rowland, who are having their hands raised in victory. Adjusting the SHOOT Project World Tag Team Championship across his shoulder, Pleasant continues speaking out to the newfound number one contenders. Michael Collins calls for a mic and gets one thrown to him.
Arthur Pleasant: Congratulations, Collinseseses! Now you have the unfortunate duty of facing the greatest, most dominant tag team in ALL of professional w–
Michael Collins: –Aye, boyo, you are the most dominant tag team in professional wrestling right now, but you’re not even close to the toughest tag team we’ve faced here in SHOOT Project.
The crowd ROARS at Michael cutting off Arthur. Rowland leans into his brother’s microphone. Pleasant, meanwhile, just kind of scratches his head as the Collins Twins speak their minds.
Rowland Collins: Your violent style may scare off most of the roster, but like we stated earlier: we’re ready to bleed for those belts.
Michael Collins: We fancy ourselves the violent types as well. The only difference between you two and us, Pleasant? You’ll feel it when we make you bleed.
Rowland Collins: At Reckoning Day, we’re taking those Tag Team Championships from you and your pal Jeffrey.
Michael Collins: And we’ll dance in the pools of blood around your bodies in celebration after!
Pleasant nods, taking in the words of both Michael and Rowland.
Arthur Pleasant: Hmmm. That’s… that’s interesting. I do commend the both of you on your bravery in speaking to me that way. Not a lot of other competitors, if any, do. Though, it might be the adrenaline still coursing through your bodies after having to get through the Neon Saints. So, bravo on finding it within yourselves to make a point. No matter how superficial and cloying it may be. Bra-fucking-vo, gentlemen!
Pleasant claps against the microphone, creating a loud booming sound that echoes throughout the Epicenter. Hopping up onto the ring apron, he continues just outside of the ring.
Arthur Pleasant: But there’s something you two should know.
Just as Pleasant steps through the ropes, the audience shrieks as Jeffrey James Roberts slowly, calculatingly, makes his way over the guardrail. He stalks both Collins brothers, as they have no clue he is right there. Ready to strike, he slides into the ring, hunkering down against the middle turnbuckle.
Arthur Pleasant: My pal Jeffrey? Well, he kind of…disagrees with you.
Rowland and Michael turn around at the same time, absolutely stunned to see Jeffrey standing there. This is all the opportunity Arthur needs as he runs, slides, and extends an arm with a brutal meathook on Michael Collins that doubles him over so bad he falls face first to the mat. This causes Rowland to turn to his brother, shocked that Arthur managed to strike as fast as he did. Before he can bring his attention back to either Jeffrey or Arthur, the former delivers an attack only like he can.
“BOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”
Roberts shoots forward, jumping up and onto, or through almost, Rowland Collins. In any event it finishes with Rowland on his back and Roberts over the top of him, surgically striking him in the face over and over as one half of the new number one contenders desperately tries to cover up. Eventually Rowland, exhausted from the match, is overwhelmed and flops back onto the mat while Roberts throws three more punches right between the eyes for good measure. Blood starts to trickle down Rowland’s face as his eyes roll back and Jeffrey finally stops. For good measure, Jeffrey pops up and dives down with a driving punch across the bridge of the nose of Michael Collins as well, making sure he’s out.
Arthur smiles a wide toothy grin, pleased at he and his partner’s handiwork, and picks up the microphone again. However, uncharacteristically, Jeffrey reaches out a hand for the microphone.
Jeffrey stares down at Rowland and Michael, having never so much as blinked since stopping his onslaught, and a distinct murmuring hush comes over the crowd at the disturbing sight of a man hovering over The Collins Brothers, unblinking, breathing steadily, unbothered, with a hand out. We hear the muffling of microphones and realize the announce team is in stunned silence as well.
Jeffrey James Roberts: You say we will feel it when you make us bleed. You say… there will be dancing around pools of blood. That sounds like a fantastic bit of fun, if you ask me. Forgive me for getting the party started a little early. You may find this a bit premature, and I know your friend, the boss and I have established something of a working relationship, but don’t worry. One thing you’ll come to understand about me is that these things are never, ever personal. I simply have a different arrangement with the two of you now. You’re planning on trying to take something from me that I would rather you didn’t take. Therefore… ONCE YOU WAKE UP… perhaps rethink your position. Or, if you want to restart this bloody dance, please remember that I am now… and always… ready to lead…
Jeffrey drops the microphone to his side.
Arthur is thrilled, but before there can be any further reaction, Jeffrey walks toward the ropes, drops to the mat and rolls out of the ring right in front of Eryk Masters and Jason Johnson. Jeffrey locks eyes with Eryk Masters and practically growls at him, causing every bit of blood to drain from his face.
Eryk Masters: Oh sh–
Jason Johnson stands up and gets as far away as he possibly can while still having his mic attached to his head. Masters practically falls out of his chair and follows him. Both announcers end up with their backs pressed firmly against the guardrail with nowhere else to go. Fortunately, Jeffrey turns his head back to the crowd, which parts like the Red Sea as he approaches, slithers over the top of the guardrail and slowly walks through and out into the darkness of the arena.
Arthur just chuckles, gives the Collins’ one more look, then climbs out of the ring and heads back up the ramp.
There’s some rustling sounds as Eryk Masters and Jason Johnson retake their spots at the desk.
Jason Johnson: Are you alright???
Eryk Masters: I um… I think I need to change clothes, but physically I’m fine.
Jason Johnson: That dude is absolutely terrifying.
Eryk Masters: I feel like he was looking into my soul.
Jason Johnson: Maybe he was.
Eryk Masters: (composing himself) Well.. um… The Collins boys are receiving some medical attention in the ring, but we’re gonna keep the show moving.
Backstage
THE SHAWS MEET BREEDLOVE
We cut to backstage, one of the many hallways to see the partner of Laura Seton, Nathan Shaw, walking with his son. In the world outside of wrestling, the math teacher is usually seen as an imposing figure but in this building, he finds he is often dwarfed in both weight and stature. Still, it doesn’t stop him from feeling safe enough to guide his son to their usual skybox to watch the show.
Nathan Shaw: Charlie, don’t run too far ahead, kiddo.
The preteen cannot help but roll his eyes, continuing a few paces in front of his father…his fingers tightly wrapped around some sort of toy.
Charlie Shaw: Whatever, Dad. It’s not like–OW!
As they come to an intersection, the boy smacks directly into a walking wall of muscle. Nathan heaves a long suffering sigh, crossing to get Charlie back to his feet.
Nathan Shaw: What did I tell you?
The camera shifts, showing the “wall of muscle” that Charlie ran into, and it’s none other than Laura Seton-tormentor and guest referee for the main event at Reckoning Day… Joshua Breedlove. Audible gasps are heard through the crowd.
Joshua Breedlove: It’s easy to get excited around here, especially when you’ve got unrestricted access to a bunch of famous people. Don’t worry about it. Hello, Nathan. Hello, Charlie.
It’s quite easy to tell the tension between the men, but the boy takes his dad’s hand to get back up. When Charlie’s on his feet, he bends back down to pick up the toy he dropped…the first edition SHOOT Project Laura Seton action-figure he got for Christmas. Nathan nods a greeting to the man.
Nathan Shaw: Charlie, you should apologize for running into Mr. Breedlove.
Charlie Shaw: Heck no. He’s a jerk to Laura.
Nathan Shaw: Charlie…
Charlie Shaw: What? He is!
Nathan Shaw: Be that as it may, you ran into him because you weren’t paying attention.
The boy rolls his eyes, but murmurs an apology before moving back to his dad’s side.
Joshua Breedlove: So much happened in the last fourteen seconds, goodness. First of all, apology accepted even though it’s unnecessary. Second, y’all can call me Joshua or Josh. I don’t need the formality of “Mr. Breedlove.”
Breedlove looks down at Charlie, spots the action figure, smiles, and looks back up at Nathan making direct eye contact.
Joshua Breedlove: I’d wondered whether or not this was received…
He nods towards the action figure, keeping eye contact.
Joshua Breedlove: But I see my concerns were unfounded. That’s amazing, I’m glad he likes it. You know, one of the things that I like doing around the city here is getting involved in local philanthropy. Would you believe it when I told you that I got invited to come speak at Hyde Park Middle School?
Nathan’s eyes get a little wide when Breedlove calls out Charlie’s school and his workplace, and Breedlove smirks.
Joshua Breedlove: I told them I’d be glad to come talk to the students and we’re also working out a deal to revitalize some of the extra curricular areas that haven’t gotten a lot of attention in a few years, like music, drama, and all that fun stuff.
He pauses and doesn’t break eye contact.
Joshua Breedlove: Charlie, do you like music and plays and stuff?
Charlie Shaw: I like it because it’s Laura, not because it’s from you.
Nathan Shaw: Charlie…
The boy shakes his head.
Charlie Shaw: No I don’t plays and junk, sitting still that long is boring. I like math and my horses.
The math teacher can’t help but chuckle at his son’s response. He truly didn’t like sitting through their drama or music classes.
Nathan Shaw: I’m sure the administration will be glad to have you, Josh. The programs certainly got a boost when Laura came to speak last year, she even came with a nice donation for our extracurriculars.
Breedlove smiles.
Joshua Breedlove: That’s amazing! Someone of her stature should absolutely be giving back to this community. I’m not coming with just a donation, though. This is for ongoing support. Like, years of it. I’m surprised you weren’t aware?
He shakes his head, waving it off.
Joshua Breedlove: Anyway, that means I’ll be seeing y’all again real soon. I haven’t decided yet what I’ll be talking about, but you can be sure it’ll be of extra special interest to you and Charlie, Nathan. Enjoy the rest of the show! You’ve already seen me win!
He laughs, walking away from the two and back towards the Empire’s locker room. Nathan glances down at his son, brows furrowed as he takes the boy’s hand and leads him down the hall.
Nathan Shaw: Let’s go, Charlie.
Charlie Shaw: That guy is a jerk.
Nathan Shaw: I know, but he’s not your problem to deal with…he is Laura and Josh’s problem. So just keep your mouth closed for a while and let’s go find our seats.
RING ENTRANCE
BELLECOSE
Out of the ruins…
Out of the wreckage…
Can’t make the same mistake this time…
Ghost’s cover of “We Don’t Need Another Hero” hits the speakers as the members of HEXXXED step out from the back and onto the Epicenter Arena’s entrance platform.
Flanked to the left is NEMESIS, donning her red phoenix mask and seared-fabric outfit, alongside RAIKO, who is perched in yellow with a snarling tiger mask covering her face. On the right is Ayumi Seppuku, donning a form-fitting pin-stripe suit and her roaring lioness mask, and HEXXXED’s manager, Zee – in a burgundy suit and tie.
Planted firmly in the center of the group is Bellecose. The fighter, who has not seen ring action – at least stateside – in over a year arches her back up and looks up toward the rafters, her eyes hidden behind a pink, melting doe mask. She raises a hand and points up toward the sky just as the crescendo of the song hits.
We don’t need another hero!
We don’t need to know the way home!
All we want is life beyond Thunderdome!
Belle’s white trench coat glides over the top of the metal rampway as she leads HEXXXED down to the ring. As she closes the distance, the SHOOT fans’ attention is glued to the female faction.
Jason Johnson: We’ve got the full entourage here tonight, Eryk.
Eryk Masters: I think Ayumi may finally be taking the threat of SWARM seriously, Jason. And, if we’re being honest, ever since she lost to Laura Seton at Redemption, HEXXXED has felt well… hexed.
Jason Johnson: Vegas rules, Eryk. If the odds are against you, then sometimes you need to change the odds altogether.
Bellecose leaps onto the apron, grabbing the ropes and swaying down, dramatically, reaching with her free hand to pull off her doe mask and hand it to Ayumi, who simply nods and mouths something indecipherable to Bellecose, whose face looks to be covered in dripping black paint
Jason Johnson: Supposedly Bele was inspired by the villain of FernGully: a manifestation of environmental death and destruction played by the one and only Tim Curry.
Eryk Masters: I was more of a Dr. Blight kind from Captain Planet guy, myself…
Jason Johnson: Both were a little after my time, Eryk, any chance you remember what the villain from FernGully’s name was?
Eryk Masters: ….
Jason Johnson: HEXXUS.
Eryk Masters: Oh come on.
Ayumi retreats with Belle’s mask as the British brawler flashes a confident smile through the oozing paint as she slides through the ring ropes, watching as the other four members of HEXXXED split off and form a semicircle around the back side of the ring, standing silently.
As the music fades, Bellecose turns back to the rampway, her eyes narrow; focused and ready for her opponents to join her in the ring.
TRIPLE THREAT MATCH
SPOT 1 OF 2 FOR SIN CITY CHAMPIONSHIP AT RECKONING DAY
MIKE DE LOS HUESOS
BELLECOSE
LOCUST
POST MATCH
OH, DEER
The bell sounds and immediately Ayumi, RAIKO, and NEMESIS move to flank the ring while the still recovering trio of Mike de los Huesos, LOCUST, and Bellecose catch their breaths.
Eryk Masters: Things are about to get real ugly out here real quick, Jason. WASP may have a lot of confidence in herself and her brood, but even someone as creepy and dominant as LOCUST can’t survive a four-on-one against the likes of HEXXXED.
Jason Johnson: I’m more concerned that Mike gets out of there before he’s caught in the crosshairs. The last thing we need in SHOOT right now is to bring the Breedlove Empire into HEXXXED and SWARM’s turf warfare!
The first one to their feet is Bellecose; her breaths ragged and her body clearly sore. She clutches at her ribs as she looks through Mike de los Huesos straight through to LOCUST, who is also slowly, but calmly, trying to reorient himself against the far posts.
The crowd is buzzing like a scourge of mosquitoes in the middle of summer. Tensions are high as Ayumi now has eyes and positioning on LOCUST. The former champion and first ballot Hall of Famer looks to be biding her time, ready to strike like a lioness in the savannah and-
Jason Johnson: Oh shit!
A streak of pink, black, and white bursts across the mat as Bellecose lunges forward with shocking speed toward the semi-aware LOCUST! Mike de los Huesos sidesteps the fighter just in time and immediately begins moving himself towards the ropes so he can GTFO.
Meanwhile, LOCUST manages to look up in time to meet the business end of Belle’s forearm!
The crowd makes a collective “Ooo!” sound as LOCUST’s head snaps back from the impact, but the move doesn’t seem to phase the SWARM member in the least as he gathers himself and shoves Bellecose backwards in retaliation!
Bellecose snarls as she reaches out and grabs a hold of LOCUST’s arms and rolls backwards, lifting him up and VAULTING him over her head with a modified suplex! He lands flat on his spine with a woosh of air leaving his body.
The members of HEXXXED are suddenly frozen; watching as a feral Bellecose gathers herself and cracks a smile, teeing herself up as LOCUST picks himself up, slowly, from the mat.
Eryk Masters: I don’t like the look in her eyes, Jason.
Jason Johnson: SWARM has not seemed to view HEXXXED as legitimate threats in recent weeks, but that is changing in real time as Bellecose…
LOCUST finally makes it to his feet and turns around ONLY TO GET SPEARED A FOOT BACKWARDS, STRAIGHT THROUGH THE MIDDLE ROPES, AND DOWN TO THE FLOOR BELOW!
Eryk Masters: Oh god! She killed him!
The crowd screams in shock as the bodies of LOCUST and Bellecose drop to the side of the ring with a sickening THUD. Even the nearby NEMESIS takes a cautionary step back as Bellecose, by pure adrenaline or insanity, shakily finds her way to her feet.
LOCUST, also somehow manages to begin recovering; however, with a swift transition, Bellecose intercepts and lands a swift kick to his cranium.
CRACK!
The sound of steel-toed boot on bone reverberates throughout the arena, causing the fans to yelp in surprise. LOCUST immediately falls to his knees and grabs at his head but Bellecose stops him in mid motion, locking her wrists around his forearm and jamming the heel of her boot into the small of his back before YANKING backwards with brute force.
POP!
Jason Johnson: Oh god, I’m going to be sick.
Eryk Masters: Let’s hope for LOCUST’S sake that’s just a dislocation, Jason! I don’t know what’s gotten into Bellecose, but it looks like the youngest member of HEXXXED has decided to take things quite literally into her own hands! She is absolutely feral right now.
Finally NEMESIS, RAIKO, and Ayumi converge behind Bellecose, but not to join in the assault – instead they are trying to get her to stop! The fighter shrugs it off, screaming something back to the members of HEXXXED.
Jason Johnson: Wait. Bellecose just say she’s not finished!?
Eryk Masters: What else could she possibly… oh… oh no…
Bellecose reaches down and under the ring, quickly – almost too quickly – and pulls something massive out from the supplies stationed below.
Jason Johnson: What the actual fuck is that!?
The crowd erupts in excitement and horror as Bellecose lifts what looks to be firmly gripping a lodge-sized, mounted deer head with its protruding antlers layered in barbed wire!
Ayumi’s eyes go wide as Belle doesn’t even pause to take a breath before raising the trophy high above her head and SLAMMMING the weapon down onto the back and shoulders of LOCUST!
The crowd audibly winces in revulsion as the SWARM member’s body seems to lift off the floor, still attached to the barbs deeply embedded in his skin. Gravity does its job, however, and LOCUST falls to the floor once again, rolling over in pain.
As he does, Bellecose lifts the weapon up, for another round.
Eryk Masters: No! Don’t!
She would have…until the lights go out!
When they come back on, almost instantly, WASP has pulled LOCUST away and cradles him, glaring daggers at Bellacose. Directly in front of Bellacose, towering over her, is CICADA.
A manic Bellecose looks ready to charge forward and continue her attack – UNTIL AYUMI STEPS IN FRONT OF THE ATTACK.
Ayumi Seppuku: BELLE! THAT’S ENOUGH!
The audio barely picks up a screaming Ayumi, trying to talk Bellecose off the ledge, but the young fighter’s eyes dart back and forth between the HEXXXED leader and CICADA, who looks fully ready to fight, though he seems a little caught off guard by Ayumi stepping in the way.
Ayumi Seppuku: DON’T MAKE THE SAME MISTAKE I DID! IF WE DO THIS, WE DO IT TOGETHER.
Those words are enough to make Bellecose pause and take a step back. As she does, Ayumi gestures behind Bellecose toward the other members of HEXXXED. RAIKO and NEMESIS slowly remove their masks. A hot mic is able to pick up RAIKO clearly.
RAIKO: SWARM ARE TRYING TO DISTRACT! REMEMBER WHY YOU HERE!
NEMESIS silently looks over her shoulder and as Bellecose follows her gaze, the camera catches sight of a young teenager with streaked pink and black hair. She is nervously watching the scene unfold, her hands clearly shaking, trying quickly to hide a sign she had made with Bellecose’s name on it above an “asexual pride” flag.
Bellecose’s attention waivers just enough for her to drop her shoulders, as well as her weapon. The trophy falls to the ground with a thud. The members of HEXXXED look at each other in silence before turning to facing SWARM as the tension in the arena reaches a fever pitch!
CICADA looks back at WASP, and though his face can’t be read, WASP seems to know what he is communicating. WASP hesitates, seeing that they are both outnumbered, and looks down at the clearly hurting LOCUST. She shakes her head no.
CICADA nods as WASP looks up towards Ayumi, face cold and piercing as she drags a thumb across her throat just before the lights go out again!
BLACK.
The crowd ROARS wanting to see what’s happening, and they soon get their chance as within seconds the normal house lights come back on and, as they do, we see that SWARM, including the fallen LOCUST, have vanished, leaving HEXXXED all alone.
Eryk Masters: Christ almighty. I don’t know who… or what SWARM is, but there is no question that they have HEXXXED firmly in their crosshairs, even if we still don’t understand why!
The four HEXXXED members look around, confused at first, but soon close ranks and embrace.
Jason Johnson: Whatever the reason, Eryk, HEXXXED has called SWARM’s bluff and I have a feeling that, at Reckoning Day, we’re going to find out just how smart of a move that was.
Ayumi, Bellecose, RAIKO, and NEMESIS lean in towards one another, each raising a fist toward the air in a shared victory pose. The crowd gets swept up in the scene as well as the four HEXXXED members turn outward and cross their forearms into an “X” pattern just in time for “We Don’t Need Another Hero” to hit the speakers and we cut to commercial.
IN THE RING
LET IT JUST BE YOU AND ME
The lights in the arena dim for a moment before the hauntingly epic strings of “Lux Aeterna” by Clint Mansell echo through the Epicenter. The crowd rises to their feet, the anticipation in the air thick as “The Absolute” Austin Anderson steps onto the stage. His sharp black suit is perfectly tailored, but his expression is raw, intense. This isn’t just another night. This isn’t just another speech. This is everything.
Anderson takes his time walking down the ramp, his hands running over his face, almost as if he’s collecting his thoughts before stepping into the ring. He climbs the steps, enters between the ropes, and stands in the center of the squared circle, letting the moment hang before he raises the microphone to his lips.
Austin Anderson: Very soon, I will step into this ring and face Laura Seton for the SHOOT Project World Heavyweight Championship. And I need you all to understand something… this is not just another title match. This is not just another main event. This is history in the making.
The crowd buzzes, some already breaking into a faint “Lau-ra Set-on!” chant, but Anderson raises a hand, signaling for silence as he continues.
Austin Anderson: You see, for years, Laura Seton has been a jack of all trades in this business. She could do it all. She could stand toe-to-toe with the best brawlers, she could fly with the high-flyers, she could trade holds with the technicians. But there was always that old saying, jack of all trades, master of none. That’s what they used to say about Laura Seton.
He shakes his head, eyes burning with conviction.
Austin Anderson: But that was then. That was before she turned the page and became the best version of herself. That was before she silenced every critic, shut the mouths of every doubter, and proved that she wasn’t just good at everything, she was elite at everything. Laura Seton has mastered this craft. She has sharpened every tool in her arsenal, refined every aspect of her game, and established herself as one of the greatest competitors in SHOOT Project history. And I respect that.
He pauses, gripping the ropes, staring out at the crowd before continuing, his voice taking on a fire that ignites the audience.
Austin Anderson: When I face Laura Seton at Reckoning Day, I don’t want the distractions. I don’t want the noise. I don’t want any of the politics, the games, the outside forces trying to cast shadows over what should be a match for the ages. Because this, this right here, this is what I live for. This is what I breathe for. I have dedicated my entire life to this sport, to this art, and when I step into that ring, the world goes silent.
The crowd starts to feel his energy, a chant bubbling just under the surface. “Aus-tin Ander-son! Aus-tin Ander-son!” He nods at their response but keeps going, his voice rising in passion.
Austin Anderson: Laura, when I stand across from you, I don’t want you distracted by the noise. I don’t want you worrying about anything but me. Because I promise you, when I step through those ropes and that bell rings, I am coming at you with everything I have left in me. You have mastered your craft, but I have spent decades perfecting mine. And I want you at your very best, because I want this to be about nothing but who is better.
The chants are getting louder now. “Lau-ra Set-on! Aus-tin Ander-son!” The electricity in the air is undeniable as Anderson’s intensity continues to rise.
Austin Anderson: This is about proving, beyond a shadow of a doubt, who the best in the world is. It’s about testing our limits, pushing past the boundaries of what people think we can do. And I swear to you, Laura, I will give you every ounce of fight left in my body. Because if this is my last stand, if this is my final shot, then by God, I am going to make it a match that will be remembered forever.
The crowd is feverish now, completely caught in Anderson’s emotional cry for battle. The dueling chants of “Lau-ra Set-on!” and “Aus-tin Ander-son!” ring throughout the Epicenter, shaking the walls with their passion.
Anderson stops, closing his eyes for a moment, soaking it all in before speaking again, his voice softer, but no less intense.
Austin Anderson: Laura, I know you feel it. I know you know what this means. This isn’t just a title defense for you. This is your chance to show the world that you are undeniable. And this is my chance to show the world that I am still, and will always be, The Absolute. So ignore the outside noise. Let the politics fade away. Let the distractions disappear. When we meet, let it be just you and me.
Anderson steps to the ropes, gripping them tightly, his voice dropping to a near whisper, but carrying all the weight of his years in the business.
Austin Anderson: We owe this sport nothing less than our very best. And at Reckoning Day, I swear to you, Laura, I will give you mine.
He tosses the microphone to the mat as “Lux Aeterna” begins to play again, but the music can barely be heard over the deafening chants of “Lau-ra Set-on!” and “Aus-tin Ander-son!” The moment has been set. The match has been sealed.
SINGLES MATCH
AUSTIN ANDERSON
VS.
SOBRE NEGRO
IN THE RING
LET IT JUST BE YOU AND ME
She stands, wearing her red leather jacket and blue jeans, a SHOOT backdrop behind her. Her blonde hair down and World Heavyweight Championship over her right shoulder. It was far from the pomp and circumstance many SHOOT Warriors felt necessary, but it was enough for Laura Seton. Seeing her on the screen, the fans in the Epicenter cheer.
Laura Seton: I still have a step to get through tonight. A Breedlove Empire hurdle, potentially more, to clear. If Joshua Breedlove gets his way, maybe I’m not 100 percent as I enter the ring at Reckoning Day. I’m sure he’d love being in there and counting the 1-2-3 and watch with an external smirk, but an internal gleeful smile, as I lose control of the World Heavyweight Championship.
As I lose control of the greatest fucking thing I’ve accomplished in wrestling; watch it leave my grasp for a second time. And I potentially wonder what to do next.
As I wallow and go into deep thought about facing him and at least have sweet revenge by beating him…
Or maybe make him that much happier and just decide to walk away…
There’s a smattering of boos at that option. Laura has a small, stifled chuckle.
Laura Seton: Maybe he actually has the guts to count the three as I hold the pin. Maybe he finds he has no choice but to call for the bell as Austin Anderson exceeds his pain tolerance and either taps or passes out.
That could be part of his master plan, though. We all know Joshua Breedlove, right? He may say he doesn’t care how it comes, but it seems like it would be a special accomplishment if he becomes the only 3-time World Heavyweight Champion by beating me. That may give him just as much joy, and may serve as enough motivation to, believe it or not?
Call this right down the middle.
She has a small toss of her hair before having another grin.
Laura Seton: Austin Anderson. You and I, as I’m sure Breedlove will enjoy poking fun at, are nearly a combined 100 years old. With what, over a good 50 combined years in the ring?
Two different roads converging from drastically different forks. You, the man that entered and could just never give it up. Like this was made for you and vice versa. Like fate saying it wouldn’t be right for you to do anything but wrestle. The man who’s been Absolute in everything he’s touched so far in this business. Who’s one of the best, and it’s almost a shame SHOOT sees you at the twilight of your career. Yet, here you are.
Still captivating audiences with what you do from bell-to-bell. Still having fans sitting there, stuck to your every word like a fan that watches some Spanish telenovela. Everyone knows you belong on this big stage at Reckoning Day. You’ve more earned this over your career and whatever awards you receive for a career of excellence and local arenas you have named in your honor–you’ve earned it all.
But now you face me. You were destined for this moment because of your appetite and persistence to be great…no, awesome.
I was destined because fate wouldn’t let it be otherwise.
Because as much as I avoided wrestling as a child? It was there. My brothers loved watching all this. My high school boyfriend and his buddies all loved this sport. I just tolerated it because it was on TV where ever I was. That’s just the way it was.
And when I tried getting away from it? No more boyfriend and living at college, so no more brothers to watch wrestling around me?
Fuck if somehow I end up at a show. And a scout approaches me about making some money because I’ve, “…got that special “it” athletically.”
And, like you, I couldn’t kick the business. I’ve retired not once. Not twice. But three times. I’ve done my damnedest to stay out of wrestling, and not because I wanted to… but because I thought that part of my life was over.
And now I’m finally having the best run of my life. One that people saw in me 25 years ago. One that some thought just never would happen.
Now I’m suddenly gonna let it crash and have this World Heavyweight Championship slip out of my hands? This isn’t like I don’t have any goals left to accomplish. I want to join that exclusive “300 club” here–hold this for over 300 consecutive days. I want to be at Joshua Breedlove for this once again and finally have him shut the fuck up…
The fans cheer the sentiment, enough for Laura to actually crack a bigger smile
Laura Seton: I want to be an active SHOOT Hall of Famer. I want to be elected to the SHOOT Hall of Fame while I’m the holder of the World Heavyweight Championship.
I want to be known as the best fucking SHOOT World Heavyweight Champion of ALL FUCKING TIME!
She’s about to speak but the roar of the fans cuts her off. She nods a few times with her friendly grin before the cheers recede and she’s able to speak again.
Laura Seton: And young me that first entered this business… she probably just shook her head in disbelief at my saying that. She probably is just awestruck that I’m still in wrestling, but man–I caught this wrestling bug HARD when I began. Somehow I went from “whatever” to “this is kinda cool” to “this is fun” to “I love my fucking job!”
Getting to face a test like yourself, Austin? Someone that wants to and can put on a 5-star match at the drop of a hat and can beat anyone at any point? Yeah, that’s exactly the challenge I want and this is the match the fans deserve. After what’s going to be a wild and entertaining evening full of lifetime memories for both fans and wrestlers alike?
You and I are gonna finish off in the only way we know how. The right way. Wrestling an absolute classic that will still be talked about 25 years from now.
I love my fucking job!
MAIN EVENT
LAURA SETON
VS.
JOEY BURKHALTER
POST MATCH
THE LAST WORD
“As I’m apparently responsible for carrying the undercard as well as the main event… let me just be the first person to applaud you, Laura.”
The voice is unmistakable as the sound of sarcastic, rhythmic clapping plays over the arena’s sound system. The crowd’s hate bubbles up as the inimitable Joshua Breedlove steps onto the stage, doing his best to command attention from the moment. He’s changed back into his more business-like attire, black slacks, black button down, and black tie, and to no one’s surprise… he has a microphone in hand.
Jason Johnson: He REALLY loves the sound of his own voice.
Eryk Masters: Amen, Jase. Amen.
He walks a couple of steps down the ramp as Burkhalter gets back to his feet, waiting for any kind of signal or instructions for what to do next.
Joshua Breedlove: Thank you for your work tonight, Joey. You’ve put a lot of what we’ve talked about to good use and though you came up short… the improvement is there. Don’t worry about this, there won’t be any physicality here. Head up here, start thinking about Vito Valentino and becoming the Premier Champion.
Burkhalter pauses, wanting to make sure. When Breedlove gives the nod, he rolls out of the ring and to the floor. He makes his way around the ring, Laura Seton never taking her eyes off of him, and he joins Breedlove at his side.
Joshua Breedlove: Now then. Laura… you, me, and Austin Anderson have a date in a couple of weeks, and it’s going to be probably the toughest test of your title reign so far. I’m here to lay out some ground rules for this match and to give you some time to think about how I’m going to behave. You mentioned it earlier tonight, you know, that I might just call it right down the middle.
He nods.
Joshua Breedlove: That’s the plan. If Austin Anderson is able to put it together well enough to beat you? I’m not going to taint that, because for as much as I love myself? I love this business and the World Championship… almost as much. I’m not going to mess with you, not going to mess with him… at least physically. You can rest assured that I’m going to be talking to you, getting in your head, making you insecure… making you doubt yourself. All of those things? I’m going to do those.
He laughs, she shakes her head, and the crowd boos.
Joshua Breedlove: But that’s because you need this lesson, Laura. You need to be educated much like Cormac Nelson did. You need to understand that even if I’m not putting my hands on you, you’re not safe, and I will go to the ends of the earth to make sure you get that. So yes, at Reckoning Day… I’ll call it down the middle. If you win, you win. If you lose, you lose. You have my word on that, and if nothing else… I think we all know that I keep my word. Just know, though… I’m only getting started.
He smiles, letting the words hang.
Joshua Breedlove: You think that messing with Josh Kaine is part of the deal? Nah, that’s just… a happy accident because of his involvement with you. Sticking my Empire around the stadium and making you sweat, constantly, is just part of a piece of a phase. Sending your non-kid a gift? A part of a piece of a phase. Austin Anderson badly wants to minimize me in this situation, and I can’t blame him. It’s probably the only shot he’s going to get. The thing though is that I’m a spectre over this match, over these proceedings.
He shrugs, taking a few steps closer.
Joshua Breedlove: …and you’re obsessed with trying to pretend like I don’t matter to you, but we can all see it. So at Reckoning Day… it’s not just going to be you and Austin Anderson. I’m going to be right there with you all, every step of the way, and when the dust settles and a victor is certain?
He smiles as the SHOOT Project’s logo fades in at the bottom of the screen, signaling the end of the show.
Joshua Breedlove: Then maybe I’ll strike. Maybe. See you soon!
Black.