Post by Immanuel Taylor on Apr 26, 2010 16:37:20 GMT -5
The EUW-branded cameras officially open up with a shot of the infamous Vengeance Dome. The extravagant and impressive infrastructure of the Vengeance Dome immediately encapsulates your attention as all the EUW wrestlers and performers seemed holed up inside and ready to initiate tonight’s program. An ostensibly large digital time clock reigns tall right above the “EUW VENGEANCE DOME” engraving with a countdown to the beginning of tonight’s SnV edition. All the fervid and characteristically anxious fans are already in their seat. The show is minutes from starting when suddenly Vincent Ellis blares out from the front stage and rushes towards a group of staff workers who seem gathered around a specific side of the Vengeance Dome.
“What the hell is going on?” shrieks the emotionally worn down Ellis, a man who pulled a gun on his own EUW roster last week just to control them as he approaches the confused group of staff workers.
“Mr. Ellis” yells an insignificant and nameless staff worker character. “We have a situation, sir.”
“What kind of situation?” immediately snaps back Ellis in an uncharacteristically strict and feisty mood.
“It appears that..uh….Chris Sabora is here, sir.”
Vincent Ellis widens his eyes in disbelief as he stares at the small cluster of staff workers. He shakes his head and rubs his blood-shot eyes before staring intensely into the faces of those in front of him.
“Of course Chris Sabora is here He’s an active wrestler in this federation, you idiots!”
“Yes, sir, we are aware of that. What we meant, however, is that….uh…..”
Each member of the staff worker cluster hesitates to speak up regarding the situation. This eccentric showing of hesitation seems to be due to confusion rather than pure hesitation as they constantly eye one another in hopes of one providing the other with a more suitable response. Ellis angrily sighs.
“Boys….I have a show to attend to in a couple of minutes. If you don’t tell me exactly what’s going on here then consider yourself immediately terminated.”
The emotionally unstable Ellis crosses his arms as the cluster of young staff workers collectively sigh before one of them approaches EUW’s general manager and points up at the roof of the Vengeance Dome. According to the infrastructure of the building, there seems to be a central and symbolic dome on top with a flat rectangular surface around it. According to the staff worker, there seems to be someone sitting on that flat rectangular surface. Ellis looks on with disbelief.
“Chris Sabora is on top of the Vengeance Dome, sir. He’s been sitting there for the past three hours.”
“WHAT THE HELL IS THAT PSYCHOPATH DOING?” yells Ellis with a cocktail of volatile emotions to go along with the distressed tone of his voice. Chris Sabora does indeed seem to be sitting on top of the Vengeance Dome.
“Is he going to…kill himself?”
“No, sir.” responds another meaningless staff worker. “Apparently, according to someone we sent up there, he seems to be meditating”
“Meditating?” inquires Ellis without even taking his eyes off Sabora on the top of the Vengeance Dome.
“Yes sir”
“On the top of the fucking Vengeance Dome?”
“Yes sir.”
A long moment of silence transpires as Ellis and the staff workers stand there staring at Sabora on the top of the Vengeance Dome. EUW’s former world champion and recently insane Chris Sabora seems to be actually meditating as his body seems to be positioned on the edge of the flat rectangular surface.
“Should we call the fire brigade, sir?”
“No” snaps back Ellis with his bloodshot eyes and feeble body structure. “The last thing I need is the fucking media getting all of this. If anyone asks, then tell them we put up a life sized training dummy of Chris Sabora on the top of the Vengeance Dome for decorative purposes.”
“And what about Chris Sabora, sir?”
Ellis switches his gaze between the cluster of staff workers and the meditating Chris Sabora before his watch begins blinking, undoubtedly signifying the beginning of the show.
“Just….just leave him be.” reluctantly says Vincent Ellis before rushing back into the Vengeance Dome. The last visible shot is of Chris Sabora, casually meditating on the top of the ridiculously high Vengeance Dome. The opening of SnV then rolls into action.
SnV opens up with a recap video of last week’s events, highlighting multiple aspects of last week’s show ranging from Vincent Ellis losing control of his emotions and patience and holding his EUW roster at gunpoint to the debuts of Count Ludvak and Gio Castillo. Other highlights include the title match between Xplode and TITAN and Marcus Puzzo turning on his brother, Mario, and then beating him to unconsciousness. The last shot of the recap video is of Marcus Puzzo standing over the body of his own brother, Mario Puzzo.
The video ends with Marcus’ face before the cameras cut to the backstage hallways of the Vengeance Dome where Marcus himself is shown making his way through the infinite hallways of EUW. Marcus’ face seems to be obviously distressed as the younger Puzzo, in his street clothes, seems to have just arrived to the arena. With his bag in hand, Marcus navigates the hallways with an empty look. It only takes him a little while to find the general locker room, the type of locker room misbehaving superstars are assigned to. Marcus immediately shoves the door open and enters to find none other than Mark Rivera sitting on a bench with his back to the endless line of lockers.
“Marcus, come in. It’s just you and me here.” casually exclaims Rivera before pointing at the steel chair positioned a couple of feet from him. “You’re not in any type of trouble, young man. Please have a seat.”
Marcus, obviously confused, takes precaution as he drops his bag and makes his way to the steel chair before sitting on it. Rivera has a warm smile on his face as he crosses his legs and scans Marcus with his eyes.
“Tell me, Marcus.” begins Rivera. “How did it feel to attack your own brother?”
“What the fuck?” replies Marcus with a vehement tone. Mark raises his arms and hushes Marcus, telling him that he’s just curious.
“Please, Marcus, like I said you’re not in any trouble. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. I was very interested when I heard you did that to your own brother. Tell me, was it due to built up frustration over the years? “
“What do you want?” replies Marcus with a stern look on his face as Rivera simply sits there calmly.
“Marcus, please. I’m not your enemy. In fact I came here because I understand you. More specifically, I came here to offer you exactly what you want. The thing that has caused you to indulge in violence in hopes of obtaining it. The same thing that caused you to convince your brother Mario to help you to attack and cripple Toby Hunter, to attack Jack Bull and to steal Xplode’s world title.”
“And what would that thing be, Rivera?”
“The spotlight of course. The glory of being a main eventer, of being in a match with the world champion, hopefully even challenging him for the World Title. That is what you were after, Marcus, right? The spotlight of the main event. It must have been a blast main eventing Zero Tolerance with your brother against Toby Hunter and Xplode.”
Marcus doesn’t respond, instead he looks away with a sign of sadness. Rivera immediately picks this up and persists in keeping his smile alive. He slightly nods as Marcus continues looking away before speaking.
“It doesn’t matter anymore. Ellis demoted me to Opener status after I beat up my brother last week.”
“Well, Marcus, there comes a phase in every Professional Wrestler’s career where that very same Professional Wrestler takes an introspective look into his career. Call it a wrestler’s mid-life crises. Things aren’t looking too sunny for you, with you abandoning your brother and Ellis dropkicking you back into the Opener status. However, would it be too absurd to assume that someone with authority can pick you back up and give you another opportunity to be in the main event?”
Marcus suddenly twists his head backwards at Rivera before eyeing him. A moment of silence transpires as Marcus continues staring before scoffing and turning his head away.
“Last time I checked, Vincent Ellis was still running this joint and I doubt he’s going to let me make it to the midcard, let alone the main event.”
“Wheels within wheels, Marcus. The world of Professional Wrestling is no different than any other business. It’s all about the interests of individuals. You have a burning interest, or perhaps we should call it a desire, to be a main eventer. To close shows rather than open them. I myself have my own interests. And, Marcus, the thing about interests is that it all depends on the individual’s willpower to fulfill them. I am willing to barter with you regarding our respective interests. In simpler terms, you help me and I will gladly help you.”
Marcus, now genuinely interested and a little confused, leans in closer as Rivera suddenly stands up and makes his way towards Marcus. He gently places his arm on Marcus’ shoulder before whispering into his ear.
“Ask yourself how badly you want to be in the main event, how badly you want to face the World Champion for that luxurious World Title of his. Once you figure out the answer, then come to Vincent Ellis’ office and talk to me privately.”
Rivera puts on his sunglasses and proceeds to make his way out of the general locker room as Marcus is left, minutes before his match begins, sitting on the steel chair in an empty locker room. The camera follows Rivera outside before pulling a 180 spin and focusing on none other than Marcus’ opponent himself. Gio Castillo. Along with his manager/girlfriend Tori Black, Gio seems to be fitting in perfectly in his new workplace.
"So this is where you will be working now, huh baby?" - Tori asks as her eyes scan the hallways of the EUW arena. Giovanni follows next to her with his hand in her hand hiding a small smile.
"Yeah.. this is it! The glorious EUW. This is how I plan on paying our bills, basically." -Giovanni attempts to joke around, but Tori doesn't find it so humorous like he did. The camera then pans over to the diamond ring on her finger.
"So pumpkin, my match is going to start in a few minutes.. I think I have enough time to help you find your seat."-Giovanni
"Uh, actually." -Tori says with a smile on her face looking in another direction. Something seems to have caught her eye.
"I think I can find my seat from here. Besides, I want to explore where you'll be working a bit more. This wrestling stuff is all new to me. If you wouldn't mind, of course."
"Uhm.. no, not at all!"-Giovanni says with a small smile.
"Thanks baby!" -Tori Black says with a kiss to Gio's cheek before she disappears down the hallway.
"Where the fuck have you been?" Vince Castillo barks after approaching Giovanni from behind.
"I was just with Tori, Dad.” -Gio replies after seeming disappointed in not spending time with his fiancee.
“Your match is about to start in a couple of minutes! What the hell are you doing spending time with Tori? You can fuck her later on after winning us some bucks; now get your ass out to the stage!”-Vince says demandingly while pushing Giovanni towards the entrance ramp. The cameras make their way past them and into the expansive arena of the Vengeance Dome where the thousands and thousands of fans are about to burst in an orgy of cheers and uncontainable excitement at yet another episode of Saturday Night Vengeance. The cameras spin around at the expansive arena before finally settling down at the announcers table where JJ and Creep are shown locked and loaded.
Creep: Bam! We’re on!
JJ: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Saturday….Night….Vengeance!
Creep: And what a show we’ve got here tonight, Double J. In tonight’s main event, we’ve Toby Hunter and Jack Bull going at it. Both men have respectful adversaries towards each other and both have acquired wins over each other. Two weeks ago, Hunter barely managed to beat Bull after a hellacious match. If you ask me JJ, we’re in for a bloodfest tonight between these two warriors.
JJ: And speaking about bloodfests, we’ve got the second ever Six Pack Challenge tonight. TITAN, Count Ludvak, Eddie Laurel, 415, Dante Holly, and Evan Black. Six different men with different personalities and wrestling styles with one goal in mind. Victory.
Creep: And of course, we’ve got the opening match coming up right now! Gio Castillo makes his debut as he takes on Marcus Puzzo. And what a character Marcus has turned into, eh JJ? The boy went from being part of one of EUW’s strongest tag teams to a lone ranger. As someone who danced in that ring, I can testify that the taste of the main event is strong enough to turn the humblest wrestler into a blood-thirsty opportunist.
JJ: Doesn’t look like Marcus has much opportunities right now considering he is opening the show and is taking on the new guy. Gio Castillo. How does he strike you, Creepy?
The Creep: Meh, I give the rook two weeks tops.
JJ: Don't you think your writing Castillo off too soon?
The Creep: I've seen so many rookies come here, do one match and quit. What makes this guy special?
JJ: Well he's Canadian, and from the tapes I've seen. He fights with a technical style of wrestling. There aren't very many tech specialists in the EUW. With Lincoln retired, Sabora is the only one I can think of. He will be tested tonight against Marcus Puzzo who is coming off a rough breakup with his brother and former tag-team partner Mario.
The Creep: Marcus has always been a hot head since day 1 and after last week, he's ready to let out some steam on the rook. Should be an interesting match, Marcus has an unorthodox fighting style, sometimes he uses power, or high flying moves, but overall the main aspect of his game is his dirty style of fighting. Marcus is like a cutthroat out there, I think Marcus has the edge tonight and he will catch the rook off guard.
JJ: Well, let’s see if your prediction is about to come true or not. Take it from here, John!
The camera cuts to the ring where EUW announcer John Walt is shown standing firmly with an intent to announce. After playing with the crowd a bit, and acquiring a few cheers in the process, he proceeds to go on with his duty.
John Walt: Ladies and gentlemen, the following opening contest is scheduled for one fall and will be regulated under ordinary match regulations.
As “Beware of Us” hits, Marcus Puzzo makes his way out to the ramp way. As he makes his way to wards the ring the crowd boos him, Marcus makes the gesture of giving them the finger. Upon entering the ring Marcus climbs the first turnbuckle and gives the booing crowd the finger he then stands in the middle of the ring and spits in the middle of the ring making it known that he doesn't care about the fans. Heading to wards the next turnbuckle he does the same thing to the fans on the other side of the ring, he even gestures to one of the fans to get onto the ring with him.
John Walt: Introducing first, weighing in at two hundred and ten pounds and standing six foot zero. He is Marcus Puzzo!
"Little Cream Soda" by The White Stripes comes on over the P.A. system as the arena fades to black. White strobes begin to flash in three second intervals as Castillo steps outs from the backstage area. And raises his right arm into the air with a closed fist. The crowd erupts into cheers as the Castillo's smile and casually makes their way to the ring, as the crowd continues to cheer heavily.
John Walt: And his opponent, making his debut, weighing in at two hundred and twenty one pounds and standing six foot one. Being accompanied to the ring by his manager and father, Vince Castillo, he is none other than Gio Castillo!
The arena goes completely black just before Gio reaches the ring. All of a sudden, the lights kick back on and Vince stands in the middle of the ring, with his arms twisted to the right side of his hip pointing towards Gio who is posing on the turnbuckle with another right arm high in the air. Marcus watches on with disgust.
The ref rings the bell and Marcus approaches Gio with confidence but his stance is lazy. Gio stands ready to strike and just as the two are about to link arms Gio knees Puzzo in the stomach catching him completely off guard. Gio goes on the offense hitting Puzzo with a few left and right punches to the face before sending Puzzo's back into the turn buckle with an irish whip. Puzzo isn't really phased from the impact but Gio doesn't give him an opportunity to breathe trapping him in the ring corner and unleashing another barrage of left and right hooks, Marcus starts to slowly wear down in the corner but he still remains standing.
JJ: Marcus obviously wasn't taking this match seriously and Gio is making him pay early on.
The Creep: Beginners luck double J. Must be the canadian bacon, maybe that stuff has magical powers.
JJ: Canadian bacon is no different than regular bacon Creep.
The Creep: LIES!!!
Gio gives Marcus a cross slap to the chest, Marcus screams in pain while the crowd chants OOOOOOHHHH!!!! Gio waits a few seconds before giving Marcus another backhand slap to the chest of Marcus that is beat red. Gio grabs Puzzo by the head again and directs him toward the ring, he gets ready to setup another irish whip but Marcus counters with another one of his own sending Gio toward the ropes, he bounces off them and walks right into a big boot from Marcus instantly dropping back first to the mat. Marcus casually hooks the leg with a smirk awaiting the three count, 1..2 Gio quickly kicks out after 2. Marcus cannot believe it and he gets into an argument with the ref while the fans boo him on.
JJ: You got to be kidding me there, is he seriously arguing with the ref over this, that wasn't even close to a three count.
The Creep: Marcus has a right to complain double J. That ref was slow with his counts. The EUW is out to get Marcus Puzzo.
JJ: Are you seriously saying on live tv that the EUW is rigged?
The Creep: I wouldn't be surprised double J. Tim Donaghy proved that anything is possible.
JJ: Ladies and gentlemen. THE CREEP HAS GONE INSANE.
Marcus gets his head back into the match and he approaches Gio who is crawling across the mat and grabs him by the hair. He directs him toward a turnbuckle and slams his face into the top turnbuckle once. Gio's head bounces off the turnbuckle like a ball and Marcus slams his face into it again, Gio is dazed barely standing on his feet. The crowd starts to boo violently at Marcus who soaks it in giving the fans the finger. He turns Gio around picking him up and slamming his back into the mat with a textbook body slam. Marcus falls on top of Gio waiting for the three count, 1...Gio kicks our right before the ref slaps the mat for the second time. Frustrated, Marcus begins to unleash a series of mounted punches to the exposed head of Gio Castillo.
JJ: This is brutal, Marcus is destroying the new guy. Give him a break.
The Creep: Gio Castillo is getting his welcome treatment tonight. Getting your **** whooped on your first day is a rather humbling experience, builds character.
JJ: You sound like my father right now Creep.
Marcus gives Gio a few more shots to the head before getting up and running around the ring shadow boxing and taunting the fans. Marcus starts to do a mock river dance in the middle of the ring. The fans begin to throw garbage at the ring.
JJ: Marcus has turned into Mr. Bojangles.
The Creep: Marcus is putting on a show and this is how the fans replay him, with garbage. ****ing disgusting, shame on them.
JJ: Marcus is behaving like a ****ass right now. This is getting out of hand.
Marcus stops dancing and taunts the crowd while Gio lies on the mat motionless, the ref check his vitals briefly but doesn't stop the match. Marcus looks at his opponent, he approaches Gio and pulls him back to his feet. He continues the attack with a hard belly to belly suplex slamming Gio on his upper back, the impact sends Gio back on his knees briefly clutching his back before falling down on his chest. Marcus gives Gio a swift kick to the back and he pulls Gio up again only to throw him back into another turnbuckle with a hard irish whip. Marcus wastes some time hopping around the ring rallying the fans before running full blast toward Gio. Marcus leaps into the air to slam his body into Gio but at the last second Gio moves out of the way and grabs Puzzo's head in midair and slams him face first into the turnbuckle. Marcus bounces backwards wobbling in circles, Gio knees Puzzo in the stomach and picks him up slamming Marcus into the mat with a northern lights suplex with a bridge.
JJ: HOLY **** CAN GIO PULL IT OFF?
The fans are in a frenzy and the ref goes for the three count, 1..2..Marcus wiggles free just as the ref is about to slam the mat. Gio is both frustrated and exhausted and the ref goes to the booth and gets a second opinion, the ref signals the fans, and Gio that Marcus kicked out before the three count and the fans respond with a loud chant of ohhhhs and boo's.
JJ: So close there, Gio almost pulled off a huge upset just now!!!
The Creep: Fluke, he get's his *** whooped for most of the fight and tries to steal a win there on sheer luck? I don't think so.
JJ: You have to admit thought, that was a hell of a maneuver?
The Creep: A fancy pin? Who cares!!!
Gio is on his knees in exhaustion while Marcus is laying on his back stunned just realizing that Gio almost defeated him. Both men return to their feet and they both unleash their offense hitting each other with one left and right hook after another, things turn into a seesaw match as both men wear each other down, eventually Marcus starts to slow down his attacks and soon the exchange becomes one sided with Gio pummeling Marcus. Gio puts Marcus into a headlock and nails him with a quick European uppercut. Marcus falls to the mat and Gio goes for a three count, 1..2 Marcus kicks out right away. Gio doesn't let up and with a smirk on his face he tries to catch Marcus off guard setting up a sharpshooter after a brief struggle Gio is about to clinch the hold but Marcus manages to wiggle onto his back and his gives Gio a kick to the chest with both of his legs causing Gio to roll backwards. Gio returns to his feet clutching his chest briefly. He smirks at Puzzo who is furious. Marcus pounds the top ropes in anger while the fans chant Gio's name.
JJ: Looks like Gio has earned the respect of this audience tonight.
Marcus points at Gio violently and runs full speed toward him going for a clothesline but Gio casually dodges the attack, Marcus bounces off the ropes trying a follow up clothesline but Gio is ready and he responds with a hip toss sending Puzzo on his back but Marcus quickly returns to his feet and he approaches Gio who tries to follow up with a superkick but Marcus grabs his foot at the last second. Gio hops around before attempting an enziguri connecting with Marcus's face who wobbles a few steps before falling on his chest. Gio falls on one knee and waits a few moments before rolling Marcus onto his back. Instead of going for a three count he climbs up a turnbuckle near Marcus.
The Creep: The rook has to be out of his mind. This is risky.
JJ: This new guy is giving his all and the fans can respect that Creep.
The Creep: C'Mon JJ, respect? Give me a break, if this guy lives by the opinions of the fans he's going heading one way and one way only? Obscurity.
JJ: Wow, such words of wisdom Creep.
The Creep: No need to be sarcastic on live tv double J.
Gio reaches the top of the ropes and salutes the fans. He leaps off the top ropes with his left knee aiming straight at Marcus's head but Marcus rolls out of the way and Gio ends up falling face-first. Fortunately, Gio is able to quickly recuperate by rolling back on his feet. Marcus spears him to the ropes before rolling him backwards with a roll-up pinfall. The referee gets in position.
One….Two…..Three! Kickout by Gio but its one mili-second late. Marcus rolls away as the ring bell rings wildly. Gio gets back up on his feet in complete disbelief at how close the match ended. Gio goes to brawl with Marcus when his father and manager, Vincent, rolls in the ring and holds him back telling him that it’s not worth it.
John Walt: Ladies and gentlemen…..here is your winner of the match via pinfall……Marcus Puzzo!
“Beware of Us” blares through the speakers as Marcus takes a deep breath and gets his hand raised by the referee. Vince Castillo calms his son down and gets him to leave the ring, making it clear that this was a very close match. As the Castillos leave the ring and make their way up the ramp, another figure storms from the backstage area and makes his way onto the entrance stage. It’s none other than 415 , none previously as Mario Puzzo. The crowd immediately erupts in cheers as Marcus, still in the ring, notices his brother stomping down the ramp.
JJ: Oh oh. Looks like we’re going to have a family brawl over here.
Creep: And here I was thinking Hunter and Xplode were the only disorganized family members here.
Marcus doesn’t exit the ring. Instead, he folds his arms and awaits his brother, who rushes into the ring with ferocity and rolls in before getting in his brother’s face. Both Puzzos are staring into one another. After an intense staredown, one that lasts for a couple of seconds, 415 raises the microphone he brought along to his mouth and addresses his brother.
“Was it worth it, Marcus?” calmly says Mario before suddenly screaming. “WAS IT WORTH STABBING YOUR BROTHER IN THE BACK?”
Marcus shows no emotion as 415 closes in further with intense hatred and hurt in his eyes. He shoves the microphone to Marcus’ chest and orders him to answer him. Marcus doesn’t even touch the microphone as Mario keeps shoving it into his chest. Marcus, not taking his eyes off his brother, eventually grabs the microphone.
“I tried, Mario. I tried to tell you over and over that we belong in the main event! I had to convince you to help me attack Hunter and Xplode and look what happened! We got a main event match at Zero Tolerance! And I don’t want to go back to the midcard, Mario.”
“So you got rid of me?” yells Marcus after shoving the microphone towards his mouth. Both Puzzos have a hand over the microphone as they exchange their war of words. “So you stabbed me in the back? And you think that your obsession with the main event justifies it?”
“I don’t care about justifying it, Mario.”
415 suddenly takes his mask off, revealing his shocked and horrified face at his brother’s apathetic nature. Mario shakes his head repeatedly before snatching the microphone away.
“After all I’ve done for you, Marcus. I brought you to this country, gave you a job in this company, convinced Chris Sabora to train you like he trained me, after all of that……you end up having the nerve to slap me in the face? To raise a hand against your own fucking brother?”
Marcus doesn’t respond as the entire arena is completely quiet. All the fans are either shocked or to engrossed to vocally react. Mario is about to explode with rage as Marcus stands there, completely shameless and emotionless.
“You know what, Marcus? You want to end our bloodline? You want to destroy the love between us? Fine. Let’s do that. May 8th. The Special Edition of Saturday Night Vengeance. You and me, one on one. I’m going to kick your fucking ass and teach you a lesson in respect.”
The crowd reacts in shock at the fact Mario challenged his own brother to a one on one contest. Marcus doesn’t hesistate as he leans towards the microphone in Mario’s hand and speaks into it.
“I accept, Mario.” says Marcus before passing his brother and making his way out of the ring. Mario, known now officially as 415, stares with anger and insanity at what his brother has become. The last visible shot is a split screen of the two Puzzos, Marcus and Mario, as they went from being one of the most solid tag teams to challenging each other to a fight. A fight that will occur on the special edition of SnV.
“What the hell is going on?” shrieks the emotionally worn down Ellis, a man who pulled a gun on his own EUW roster last week just to control them as he approaches the confused group of staff workers.
“Mr. Ellis” yells an insignificant and nameless staff worker character. “We have a situation, sir.”
“What kind of situation?” immediately snaps back Ellis in an uncharacteristically strict and feisty mood.
“It appears that..uh….Chris Sabora is here, sir.”
Vincent Ellis widens his eyes in disbelief as he stares at the small cluster of staff workers. He shakes his head and rubs his blood-shot eyes before staring intensely into the faces of those in front of him.
“Of course Chris Sabora is here He’s an active wrestler in this federation, you idiots!”
“Yes, sir, we are aware of that. What we meant, however, is that….uh…..”
Each member of the staff worker cluster hesitates to speak up regarding the situation. This eccentric showing of hesitation seems to be due to confusion rather than pure hesitation as they constantly eye one another in hopes of one providing the other with a more suitable response. Ellis angrily sighs.
“Boys….I have a show to attend to in a couple of minutes. If you don’t tell me exactly what’s going on here then consider yourself immediately terminated.”
The emotionally unstable Ellis crosses his arms as the cluster of young staff workers collectively sigh before one of them approaches EUW’s general manager and points up at the roof of the Vengeance Dome. According to the infrastructure of the building, there seems to be a central and symbolic dome on top with a flat rectangular surface around it. According to the staff worker, there seems to be someone sitting on that flat rectangular surface. Ellis looks on with disbelief.
“Chris Sabora is on top of the Vengeance Dome, sir. He’s been sitting there for the past three hours.”
“WHAT THE HELL IS THAT PSYCHOPATH DOING?” yells Ellis with a cocktail of volatile emotions to go along with the distressed tone of his voice. Chris Sabora does indeed seem to be sitting on top of the Vengeance Dome.
“Is he going to…kill himself?”
“No, sir.” responds another meaningless staff worker. “Apparently, according to someone we sent up there, he seems to be meditating”
“Meditating?” inquires Ellis without even taking his eyes off Sabora on the top of the Vengeance Dome.
“Yes sir”
“On the top of the fucking Vengeance Dome?”
“Yes sir.”
A long moment of silence transpires as Ellis and the staff workers stand there staring at Sabora on the top of the Vengeance Dome. EUW’s former world champion and recently insane Chris Sabora seems to be actually meditating as his body seems to be positioned on the edge of the flat rectangular surface.
“Should we call the fire brigade, sir?”
“No” snaps back Ellis with his bloodshot eyes and feeble body structure. “The last thing I need is the fucking media getting all of this. If anyone asks, then tell them we put up a life sized training dummy of Chris Sabora on the top of the Vengeance Dome for decorative purposes.”
“And what about Chris Sabora, sir?”
Ellis switches his gaze between the cluster of staff workers and the meditating Chris Sabora before his watch begins blinking, undoubtedly signifying the beginning of the show.
“Just….just leave him be.” reluctantly says Vincent Ellis before rushing back into the Vengeance Dome. The last visible shot is of Chris Sabora, casually meditating on the top of the ridiculously high Vengeance Dome. The opening of SnV then rolls into action.
SnV opens up with a recap video of last week’s events, highlighting multiple aspects of last week’s show ranging from Vincent Ellis losing control of his emotions and patience and holding his EUW roster at gunpoint to the debuts of Count Ludvak and Gio Castillo. Other highlights include the title match between Xplode and TITAN and Marcus Puzzo turning on his brother, Mario, and then beating him to unconsciousness. The last shot of the recap video is of Marcus Puzzo standing over the body of his own brother, Mario Puzzo.
The video ends with Marcus’ face before the cameras cut to the backstage hallways of the Vengeance Dome where Marcus himself is shown making his way through the infinite hallways of EUW. Marcus’ face seems to be obviously distressed as the younger Puzzo, in his street clothes, seems to have just arrived to the arena. With his bag in hand, Marcus navigates the hallways with an empty look. It only takes him a little while to find the general locker room, the type of locker room misbehaving superstars are assigned to. Marcus immediately shoves the door open and enters to find none other than Mark Rivera sitting on a bench with his back to the endless line of lockers.
“Marcus, come in. It’s just you and me here.” casually exclaims Rivera before pointing at the steel chair positioned a couple of feet from him. “You’re not in any type of trouble, young man. Please have a seat.”
Marcus, obviously confused, takes precaution as he drops his bag and makes his way to the steel chair before sitting on it. Rivera has a warm smile on his face as he crosses his legs and scans Marcus with his eyes.
“Tell me, Marcus.” begins Rivera. “How did it feel to attack your own brother?”
“What the fuck?” replies Marcus with a vehement tone. Mark raises his arms and hushes Marcus, telling him that he’s just curious.
“Please, Marcus, like I said you’re not in any trouble. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. I was very interested when I heard you did that to your own brother. Tell me, was it due to built up frustration over the years? “
“What do you want?” replies Marcus with a stern look on his face as Rivera simply sits there calmly.
“Marcus, please. I’m not your enemy. In fact I came here because I understand you. More specifically, I came here to offer you exactly what you want. The thing that has caused you to indulge in violence in hopes of obtaining it. The same thing that caused you to convince your brother Mario to help you to attack and cripple Toby Hunter, to attack Jack Bull and to steal Xplode’s world title.”
“And what would that thing be, Rivera?”
“The spotlight of course. The glory of being a main eventer, of being in a match with the world champion, hopefully even challenging him for the World Title. That is what you were after, Marcus, right? The spotlight of the main event. It must have been a blast main eventing Zero Tolerance with your brother against Toby Hunter and Xplode.”
Marcus doesn’t respond, instead he looks away with a sign of sadness. Rivera immediately picks this up and persists in keeping his smile alive. He slightly nods as Marcus continues looking away before speaking.
“It doesn’t matter anymore. Ellis demoted me to Opener status after I beat up my brother last week.”
“Well, Marcus, there comes a phase in every Professional Wrestler’s career where that very same Professional Wrestler takes an introspective look into his career. Call it a wrestler’s mid-life crises. Things aren’t looking too sunny for you, with you abandoning your brother and Ellis dropkicking you back into the Opener status. However, would it be too absurd to assume that someone with authority can pick you back up and give you another opportunity to be in the main event?”
Marcus suddenly twists his head backwards at Rivera before eyeing him. A moment of silence transpires as Marcus continues staring before scoffing and turning his head away.
“Last time I checked, Vincent Ellis was still running this joint and I doubt he’s going to let me make it to the midcard, let alone the main event.”
“Wheels within wheels, Marcus. The world of Professional Wrestling is no different than any other business. It’s all about the interests of individuals. You have a burning interest, or perhaps we should call it a desire, to be a main eventer. To close shows rather than open them. I myself have my own interests. And, Marcus, the thing about interests is that it all depends on the individual’s willpower to fulfill them. I am willing to barter with you regarding our respective interests. In simpler terms, you help me and I will gladly help you.”
Marcus, now genuinely interested and a little confused, leans in closer as Rivera suddenly stands up and makes his way towards Marcus. He gently places his arm on Marcus’ shoulder before whispering into his ear.
“Ask yourself how badly you want to be in the main event, how badly you want to face the World Champion for that luxurious World Title of his. Once you figure out the answer, then come to Vincent Ellis’ office and talk to me privately.”
Rivera puts on his sunglasses and proceeds to make his way out of the general locker room as Marcus is left, minutes before his match begins, sitting on the steel chair in an empty locker room. The camera follows Rivera outside before pulling a 180 spin and focusing on none other than Marcus’ opponent himself. Gio Castillo. Along with his manager/girlfriend Tori Black, Gio seems to be fitting in perfectly in his new workplace.
"So this is where you will be working now, huh baby?" - Tori asks as her eyes scan the hallways of the EUW arena. Giovanni follows next to her with his hand in her hand hiding a small smile.
"Yeah.. this is it! The glorious EUW. This is how I plan on paying our bills, basically." -Giovanni attempts to joke around, but Tori doesn't find it so humorous like he did. The camera then pans over to the diamond ring on her finger.
"So pumpkin, my match is going to start in a few minutes.. I think I have enough time to help you find your seat."-Giovanni
"Uh, actually." -Tori says with a smile on her face looking in another direction. Something seems to have caught her eye.
"I think I can find my seat from here. Besides, I want to explore where you'll be working a bit more. This wrestling stuff is all new to me. If you wouldn't mind, of course."
"Uhm.. no, not at all!"-Giovanni says with a small smile.
"Thanks baby!" -Tori Black says with a kiss to Gio's cheek before she disappears down the hallway.
"Where the fuck have you been?" Vince Castillo barks after approaching Giovanni from behind.
"I was just with Tori, Dad.” -Gio replies after seeming disappointed in not spending time with his fiancee.
“Your match is about to start in a couple of minutes! What the hell are you doing spending time with Tori? You can fuck her later on after winning us some bucks; now get your ass out to the stage!”-Vince says demandingly while pushing Giovanni towards the entrance ramp. The cameras make their way past them and into the expansive arena of the Vengeance Dome where the thousands and thousands of fans are about to burst in an orgy of cheers and uncontainable excitement at yet another episode of Saturday Night Vengeance. The cameras spin around at the expansive arena before finally settling down at the announcers table where JJ and Creep are shown locked and loaded.
Creep: Bam! We’re on!
JJ: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Saturday….Night….Vengeance!
Creep: And what a show we’ve got here tonight, Double J. In tonight’s main event, we’ve Toby Hunter and Jack Bull going at it. Both men have respectful adversaries towards each other and both have acquired wins over each other. Two weeks ago, Hunter barely managed to beat Bull after a hellacious match. If you ask me JJ, we’re in for a bloodfest tonight between these two warriors.
JJ: And speaking about bloodfests, we’ve got the second ever Six Pack Challenge tonight. TITAN, Count Ludvak, Eddie Laurel, 415, Dante Holly, and Evan Black. Six different men with different personalities and wrestling styles with one goal in mind. Victory.
Creep: And of course, we’ve got the opening match coming up right now! Gio Castillo makes his debut as he takes on Marcus Puzzo. And what a character Marcus has turned into, eh JJ? The boy went from being part of one of EUW’s strongest tag teams to a lone ranger. As someone who danced in that ring, I can testify that the taste of the main event is strong enough to turn the humblest wrestler into a blood-thirsty opportunist.
JJ: Doesn’t look like Marcus has much opportunities right now considering he is opening the show and is taking on the new guy. Gio Castillo. How does he strike you, Creepy?
The Creep: Meh, I give the rook two weeks tops.
JJ: Don't you think your writing Castillo off too soon?
The Creep: I've seen so many rookies come here, do one match and quit. What makes this guy special?
JJ: Well he's Canadian, and from the tapes I've seen. He fights with a technical style of wrestling. There aren't very many tech specialists in the EUW. With Lincoln retired, Sabora is the only one I can think of. He will be tested tonight against Marcus Puzzo who is coming off a rough breakup with his brother and former tag-team partner Mario.
The Creep: Marcus has always been a hot head since day 1 and after last week, he's ready to let out some steam on the rook. Should be an interesting match, Marcus has an unorthodox fighting style, sometimes he uses power, or high flying moves, but overall the main aspect of his game is his dirty style of fighting. Marcus is like a cutthroat out there, I think Marcus has the edge tonight and he will catch the rook off guard.
JJ: Well, let’s see if your prediction is about to come true or not. Take it from here, John!
The camera cuts to the ring where EUW announcer John Walt is shown standing firmly with an intent to announce. After playing with the crowd a bit, and acquiring a few cheers in the process, he proceeds to go on with his duty.
John Walt: Ladies and gentlemen, the following opening contest is scheduled for one fall and will be regulated under ordinary match regulations.
As “Beware of Us” hits, Marcus Puzzo makes his way out to the ramp way. As he makes his way to wards the ring the crowd boos him, Marcus makes the gesture of giving them the finger. Upon entering the ring Marcus climbs the first turnbuckle and gives the booing crowd the finger he then stands in the middle of the ring and spits in the middle of the ring making it known that he doesn't care about the fans. Heading to wards the next turnbuckle he does the same thing to the fans on the other side of the ring, he even gestures to one of the fans to get onto the ring with him.
John Walt: Introducing first, weighing in at two hundred and ten pounds and standing six foot zero. He is Marcus Puzzo!
"Little Cream Soda" by The White Stripes comes on over the P.A. system as the arena fades to black. White strobes begin to flash in three second intervals as Castillo steps outs from the backstage area. And raises his right arm into the air with a closed fist. The crowd erupts into cheers as the Castillo's smile and casually makes their way to the ring, as the crowd continues to cheer heavily.
John Walt: And his opponent, making his debut, weighing in at two hundred and twenty one pounds and standing six foot one. Being accompanied to the ring by his manager and father, Vince Castillo, he is none other than Gio Castillo!
The arena goes completely black just before Gio reaches the ring. All of a sudden, the lights kick back on and Vince stands in the middle of the ring, with his arms twisted to the right side of his hip pointing towards Gio who is posing on the turnbuckle with another right arm high in the air. Marcus watches on with disgust.
The ref rings the bell and Marcus approaches Gio with confidence but his stance is lazy. Gio stands ready to strike and just as the two are about to link arms Gio knees Puzzo in the stomach catching him completely off guard. Gio goes on the offense hitting Puzzo with a few left and right punches to the face before sending Puzzo's back into the turn buckle with an irish whip. Puzzo isn't really phased from the impact but Gio doesn't give him an opportunity to breathe trapping him in the ring corner and unleashing another barrage of left and right hooks, Marcus starts to slowly wear down in the corner but he still remains standing.
JJ: Marcus obviously wasn't taking this match seriously and Gio is making him pay early on.
The Creep: Beginners luck double J. Must be the canadian bacon, maybe that stuff has magical powers.
JJ: Canadian bacon is no different than regular bacon Creep.
The Creep: LIES!!!
Gio gives Marcus a cross slap to the chest, Marcus screams in pain while the crowd chants OOOOOOHHHH!!!! Gio waits a few seconds before giving Marcus another backhand slap to the chest of Marcus that is beat red. Gio grabs Puzzo by the head again and directs him toward the ring, he gets ready to setup another irish whip but Marcus counters with another one of his own sending Gio toward the ropes, he bounces off them and walks right into a big boot from Marcus instantly dropping back first to the mat. Marcus casually hooks the leg with a smirk awaiting the three count, 1..2 Gio quickly kicks out after 2. Marcus cannot believe it and he gets into an argument with the ref while the fans boo him on.
JJ: You got to be kidding me there, is he seriously arguing with the ref over this, that wasn't even close to a three count.
The Creep: Marcus has a right to complain double J. That ref was slow with his counts. The EUW is out to get Marcus Puzzo.
JJ: Are you seriously saying on live tv that the EUW is rigged?
The Creep: I wouldn't be surprised double J. Tim Donaghy proved that anything is possible.
JJ: Ladies and gentlemen. THE CREEP HAS GONE INSANE.
Marcus gets his head back into the match and he approaches Gio who is crawling across the mat and grabs him by the hair. He directs him toward a turnbuckle and slams his face into the top turnbuckle once. Gio's head bounces off the turnbuckle like a ball and Marcus slams his face into it again, Gio is dazed barely standing on his feet. The crowd starts to boo violently at Marcus who soaks it in giving the fans the finger. He turns Gio around picking him up and slamming his back into the mat with a textbook body slam. Marcus falls on top of Gio waiting for the three count, 1...Gio kicks our right before the ref slaps the mat for the second time. Frustrated, Marcus begins to unleash a series of mounted punches to the exposed head of Gio Castillo.
JJ: This is brutal, Marcus is destroying the new guy. Give him a break.
The Creep: Gio Castillo is getting his welcome treatment tonight. Getting your **** whooped on your first day is a rather humbling experience, builds character.
JJ: You sound like my father right now Creep.
Marcus gives Gio a few more shots to the head before getting up and running around the ring shadow boxing and taunting the fans. Marcus starts to do a mock river dance in the middle of the ring. The fans begin to throw garbage at the ring.
JJ: Marcus has turned into Mr. Bojangles.
The Creep: Marcus is putting on a show and this is how the fans replay him, with garbage. ****ing disgusting, shame on them.
JJ: Marcus is behaving like a ****ass right now. This is getting out of hand.
Marcus stops dancing and taunts the crowd while Gio lies on the mat motionless, the ref check his vitals briefly but doesn't stop the match. Marcus looks at his opponent, he approaches Gio and pulls him back to his feet. He continues the attack with a hard belly to belly suplex slamming Gio on his upper back, the impact sends Gio back on his knees briefly clutching his back before falling down on his chest. Marcus gives Gio a swift kick to the back and he pulls Gio up again only to throw him back into another turnbuckle with a hard irish whip. Marcus wastes some time hopping around the ring rallying the fans before running full blast toward Gio. Marcus leaps into the air to slam his body into Gio but at the last second Gio moves out of the way and grabs Puzzo's head in midair and slams him face first into the turnbuckle. Marcus bounces backwards wobbling in circles, Gio knees Puzzo in the stomach and picks him up slamming Marcus into the mat with a northern lights suplex with a bridge.
JJ: HOLY **** CAN GIO PULL IT OFF?
The fans are in a frenzy and the ref goes for the three count, 1..2..Marcus wiggles free just as the ref is about to slam the mat. Gio is both frustrated and exhausted and the ref goes to the booth and gets a second opinion, the ref signals the fans, and Gio that Marcus kicked out before the three count and the fans respond with a loud chant of ohhhhs and boo's.
JJ: So close there, Gio almost pulled off a huge upset just now!!!
The Creep: Fluke, he get's his *** whooped for most of the fight and tries to steal a win there on sheer luck? I don't think so.
JJ: You have to admit thought, that was a hell of a maneuver?
The Creep: A fancy pin? Who cares!!!
Gio is on his knees in exhaustion while Marcus is laying on his back stunned just realizing that Gio almost defeated him. Both men return to their feet and they both unleash their offense hitting each other with one left and right hook after another, things turn into a seesaw match as both men wear each other down, eventually Marcus starts to slow down his attacks and soon the exchange becomes one sided with Gio pummeling Marcus. Gio puts Marcus into a headlock and nails him with a quick European uppercut. Marcus falls to the mat and Gio goes for a three count, 1..2 Marcus kicks out right away. Gio doesn't let up and with a smirk on his face he tries to catch Marcus off guard setting up a sharpshooter after a brief struggle Gio is about to clinch the hold but Marcus manages to wiggle onto his back and his gives Gio a kick to the chest with both of his legs causing Gio to roll backwards. Gio returns to his feet clutching his chest briefly. He smirks at Puzzo who is furious. Marcus pounds the top ropes in anger while the fans chant Gio's name.
JJ: Looks like Gio has earned the respect of this audience tonight.
Marcus points at Gio violently and runs full speed toward him going for a clothesline but Gio casually dodges the attack, Marcus bounces off the ropes trying a follow up clothesline but Gio is ready and he responds with a hip toss sending Puzzo on his back but Marcus quickly returns to his feet and he approaches Gio who tries to follow up with a superkick but Marcus grabs his foot at the last second. Gio hops around before attempting an enziguri connecting with Marcus's face who wobbles a few steps before falling on his chest. Gio falls on one knee and waits a few moments before rolling Marcus onto his back. Instead of going for a three count he climbs up a turnbuckle near Marcus.
The Creep: The rook has to be out of his mind. This is risky.
JJ: This new guy is giving his all and the fans can respect that Creep.
The Creep: C'Mon JJ, respect? Give me a break, if this guy lives by the opinions of the fans he's going heading one way and one way only? Obscurity.
JJ: Wow, such words of wisdom Creep.
The Creep: No need to be sarcastic on live tv double J.
Gio reaches the top of the ropes and salutes the fans. He leaps off the top ropes with his left knee aiming straight at Marcus's head but Marcus rolls out of the way and Gio ends up falling face-first. Fortunately, Gio is able to quickly recuperate by rolling back on his feet. Marcus spears him to the ropes before rolling him backwards with a roll-up pinfall. The referee gets in position.
One….Two…..Three! Kickout by Gio but its one mili-second late. Marcus rolls away as the ring bell rings wildly. Gio gets back up on his feet in complete disbelief at how close the match ended. Gio goes to brawl with Marcus when his father and manager, Vincent, rolls in the ring and holds him back telling him that it’s not worth it.
John Walt: Ladies and gentlemen…..here is your winner of the match via pinfall……Marcus Puzzo!
“Beware of Us” blares through the speakers as Marcus takes a deep breath and gets his hand raised by the referee. Vince Castillo calms his son down and gets him to leave the ring, making it clear that this was a very close match. As the Castillos leave the ring and make their way up the ramp, another figure storms from the backstage area and makes his way onto the entrance stage. It’s none other than 415 , none previously as Mario Puzzo. The crowd immediately erupts in cheers as Marcus, still in the ring, notices his brother stomping down the ramp.
JJ: Oh oh. Looks like we’re going to have a family brawl over here.
Creep: And here I was thinking Hunter and Xplode were the only disorganized family members here.
Marcus doesn’t exit the ring. Instead, he folds his arms and awaits his brother, who rushes into the ring with ferocity and rolls in before getting in his brother’s face. Both Puzzos are staring into one another. After an intense staredown, one that lasts for a couple of seconds, 415 raises the microphone he brought along to his mouth and addresses his brother.
“Was it worth it, Marcus?” calmly says Mario before suddenly screaming. “WAS IT WORTH STABBING YOUR BROTHER IN THE BACK?”
Marcus shows no emotion as 415 closes in further with intense hatred and hurt in his eyes. He shoves the microphone to Marcus’ chest and orders him to answer him. Marcus doesn’t even touch the microphone as Mario keeps shoving it into his chest. Marcus, not taking his eyes off his brother, eventually grabs the microphone.
“I tried, Mario. I tried to tell you over and over that we belong in the main event! I had to convince you to help me attack Hunter and Xplode and look what happened! We got a main event match at Zero Tolerance! And I don’t want to go back to the midcard, Mario.”
“So you got rid of me?” yells Marcus after shoving the microphone towards his mouth. Both Puzzos have a hand over the microphone as they exchange their war of words. “So you stabbed me in the back? And you think that your obsession with the main event justifies it?”
“I don’t care about justifying it, Mario.”
415 suddenly takes his mask off, revealing his shocked and horrified face at his brother’s apathetic nature. Mario shakes his head repeatedly before snatching the microphone away.
“After all I’ve done for you, Marcus. I brought you to this country, gave you a job in this company, convinced Chris Sabora to train you like he trained me, after all of that……you end up having the nerve to slap me in the face? To raise a hand against your own fucking brother?”
Marcus doesn’t respond as the entire arena is completely quiet. All the fans are either shocked or to engrossed to vocally react. Mario is about to explode with rage as Marcus stands there, completely shameless and emotionless.
“You know what, Marcus? You want to end our bloodline? You want to destroy the love between us? Fine. Let’s do that. May 8th. The Special Edition of Saturday Night Vengeance. You and me, one on one. I’m going to kick your fucking ass and teach you a lesson in respect.”
The crowd reacts in shock at the fact Mario challenged his own brother to a one on one contest. Marcus doesn’t hesistate as he leans towards the microphone in Mario’s hand and speaks into it.
“I accept, Mario.” says Marcus before passing his brother and making his way out of the ring. Mario, known now officially as 415, stares with anger and insanity at what his brother has become. The last visible shot is a split screen of the two Puzzos, Marcus and Mario, as they went from being one of the most solid tag teams to challenging each other to a fight. A fight that will occur on the special edition of SnV.
