Post by Deleted on Feb 11, 2017 21:44:20 GMT -5
CHARACTER INFORMATION
REAL NAME: Anthony Dvořák
RING NAME: Anthony Dvořák
NICKNAME(S): Der Chirurg (The Surgeon in German)
PICTURE BASE: Timothy Thatcher
AGE: 32
HEIGHT: 6'3
WEIGHT: 224lbs
ENTRANCE MUSIC: "Danny Boy" The Pogues
HOME TOWN: Greenpoint, Brooklyn, New York
HAILS FROM: Brooklyn, New York
ALIGNMENT:
Principled Heel - Twisted ethics, has a reason for their actions. ex. Jake The Snake Roberts, Triple H, Bret Hart;
TWITTER @: Don't have one
PRIMARY FIGHTING STYLE: Catch Wrestling
SECONDARY FIGHTING STYLE: Powerhouse
IN-RING STRENGTHS: Technically sound. Amateur wrestling background, and strength, combines to make him a deadly technical wrestler. Not a hold he can't get out of, or knows a counter a to.
IN-RING WEAKNESSES: Not the quickest. Prefers to wrestle a slower and more methodical paced match.
PERSONALITY AND GIMMICK: Serious. No nonsense. Anthony wrestles to win, not to appease a crowd. He doesn't have time for showboating nor playing to a crowd. Likes the attack his opponent, tearing them apart limb by limb - theoretically. Likes to truly inflict pain on his opponent.
BIOGRAPHY: Anthony was born in what was then Czechoslovakia, to Polish parents. The family moved to America when he was less than 5 months old, settling in Greenpoint, Brooklyn; mainly for its large Polish and Jewish community. Coming from nothing, and with little to the family name when he was younger, Anthony has to fight from an early age. Scuffles on the streets, in neighbourhoods and in school soon gave him a reputation. Using his amateur wrestling background, and his experience in bare knuckle fighting, and fighting on the streets, Anthony got into wrestling purely as a means to get by. Falling in love with the European style, which he had watched with his father when he was younger, Anthony spent a large part of his wrestling career perfecting that craft, and doing so in Germany.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS: None
RING ATTIRE: Black trunks and black books. No kneepads/kickpads.
PREFERRED DIVISION: Paramount
MOVESET
STANDARD MOVES: Double Underhook Suplex
Gutwrench Suplex
Saito Suplex
Fallaway slam
Brainbuster
Crossface
Swinging neckbreaker
Biting
Powerbomb
Gutwrench powerbomb
Wrist lock
Ankle lock
Boston crab
Abdominal Stretch
Diving knee drop
SIGNATURE MOVES: Deadlift German Suplex
Fujiwara Armbar
European Uppercut
Cravate knee-strikes
Running Bicycle knee strike
FINISHER(S): Crossface Chickenwing
Piledriver
MANAGER INFORMATION
NAME:
PICTURE BASE:
PERSONALITY TRAITS AND TENDENCIES:
INTERFERENCE/INVOLVEMENT TENDENCIES:
HANDLER INFORMATION
NAME: ThomasAGE: 23
CONTACT DETAILS: Board DMs
SAMPLE ROLE-PLAY
› SCENE ONE ♔
The moon was not the bright, gleaming moon of deserved happiness easing it's way into the hotel room to join in with the celebrations, but instead, a dull, sombre reflection of Dexter's depression, trapped behind prison bars and failing to enjoy it's own existence. This was not the way to live, but it was the way that Dexter had been living these past few months. A prisoner of his own mind and shortcomings, Dexter found his only companion to be the guardian of night - only this guardian understood what Dexter was going through; forgotten, under-appreciated, and depressed. Lately, Dexter had often found himself lying in his hotel bed next to his girlfriend, Angelina Von Pierce, staring out into the night sky and seeking solace with his last remaining companion. He related to the Moon, for the Moon was a fictional construct of Dexter's imagination, and in Dexter's imagination, the Moon, too, was depressed, defeated, under-appreciated, forgotten; and where Dexter was currently lying, the Moon resembled a guilty prisoner trapped behind the shutter blinds. There was just one problem, the Moon didn't resemble anything, it's simply the moon and not a reflection of Dexter in the slightest.
But Dexter had a reflection, and for reasons unbeknownst to him, he was heading towards the bathroom to check it. It sounded crazy, but here Dexter was, staring at himself in the oval-shaped mirror hanging above the bathroom sink. Dexter stood there in confusion. This wasn't him, this wasn't the Dexter that walked into WEW headquarters in San Jose, California to sign a contract. What happened to that guy? Where had he gone? Dexter barely recognised himself. He's looking in the mirror but all Dexter can see is neglection and regret. The Dexter of old would be proudly staring back at him, brimming with confidence, but what Dexter saw was a man who had everything but confidence. Dexter had been crying for change these past few months but what he had failed to realize was that the change had already taken place, and for the worse.
Dexter continued to stand there in front of the mirror, staring, searching for answers to the questions he didn't know. His gaze soon turned towards the taps in front of him. He grabbed the head of the cold tap on the right and twisted it, cupping his hands underneath the nozzle and throwing the cold water in his face. Was he crazy? Was Dexter crazy for standing in front of a mirror just to see his reflection? Dexter didn't know - at this moment, Dexter didn't know anything - but did the mirror? Dexter hesitated a little, but he soon opened his mouth and...spoke to his reflection?
“Mirror! Mirror on the wall! This Sunday, am I going to rise above them all?”
A harsh cackle quickly filled the bathroom and Dexter's eyes immediately began to survey the room in an attempt to find the source of the demented laughter. A loud voice soon penetrated the witch-like cackle and it was coming from the...mirror? Dexter's attention soon turned back to the mirror and he was in complete disbelief in what he was seeing: his reflection was speaking to him.
“Dexter, poor Dexter. So young, so foolish. Thirty people are entering the Retribution Rumble and only one can prevail and rise above the rest. I foresee many with a legitimate chance at getting their hand raised in victory; Calvin Harris, Jaedon Church, Kevin Kilbourne, Vantage - you don't even come close. Don't you see? You're just another guy! Simply a name on a piece of paper to make up the numbers. That's all you have ever been: a name. Your existence is acknowledged but not cared for. You're a burden on society, Dexter. Your own father couldn't bare to look you in the eye. He took one look at you and he saw exactly what I'm seeing now - exactly what Chance Rugani saw: a failure - someone who was never going to amount to anything. And was your father Nostradamus? Because he certainly saw the future - your future. Look at yourself, Dexter. When was the last time you mattered? When was the last time people truly cared for you? Never! You're a slave to your own failures, Dexter - to your misery - and that is always going to be the case. Do you really think you stand a chance against those twenty-nine other people?”
Dexter thought about the question a little. Did he really think he stood a chance? Of course he did! But the more he thought about it, the more he began to doubt himself. His reflection was right: ever since his alliance with Chance Rugani, Dexter has been a failure. His tenure in WEW since then hasn't amounted to anything but a constant struggle - a constant struggle to win, a constant struggle to be booked regularly and a constant struggle to even get a fraction of the reaction he was initially receiving beforehand. He really was a failure. Worse; he was on the decline and as Dexter stood staring at his reflection, he failed - no pun intended - to see a way to reroute his downward spiral. He really couldn't win the rumble, could he? The loud laughter bounced off the four bathroom walls once more and Dexter's focus returned to the mirror.
“Look at yourself - you make me sick! You're doubting yourself; you've always been doubting yourself the moment you aligned with Chance. You thought you were in cruise control riding the coattails of Animosity's most decorated Elitist, but you soon found out the hard way that you were simply holding them and preventing them from getting filthy. What happened to you? You once were this hot, rising star who had the crowds' eyes fixated to your every move. Now, now you're reminiscent of a cell phone in a basement; you get no reception. Dexter, you were once me.”
“I was once you?”
“Well, you're certainly not me now. I was someone who cared for the fans, someone who believed in working their way to the top. You on the other hand, you saw the easy way out. You saw the train to immediate stardom and bought a ticket. You sold out, Dexter! You completely went against the true you, and I can't help but laugh at what you've become: a pathetic failure - another washed up Elitist who reached his peak before he even got started. You could have made something of yourself, Dexter, but it seems like you tried your hardest to prevent us from becoming the great star we were once destined for. You killed me, Dexter, and now look at what you have become. There's no going back!”
He was right! Dexter - or more so his reflection - was right! Dexter had strayed from his true self. This wasn't the wrestler he wanted to become. He wanted to be someone the crowd loved to see week in and week out. He wanted to be someone kids could look up to. He was everything but that. He was just another guy who everyone couldn't care less to see. He was a pathetic failure and a washed up Elitist who had reached his peak. Dexter stood there, staring at his reflection, wondering to himself how he could have let this happen. The one thing he told himself that he wouldn't allow happen had happened: he had sold out. He sold himself to Rugani for fifteen minutes of fame and he barely received two seconds. Dexter was disgusted with himself. He continued to stare into the mirror but he was no longer seeing his reflection, but his past. This was the person who Dexter once was. This was someone who he was happy to be. Not the who person he had became. He wanted to be that guy again.
“Is there really no going back? is this it for me? Is this really my end?”
“Haven't you been listening, Dexter? You may as well quit whilst your ahead. Stop wasting your time - everyone's time. Just stop. You're embarrassing yourself. Just quit, Dexter. Stop!”
“No!”
“Stop, Dexter!”
“No! No! I won't stop! NO!”
“Dexter! DEXTER?!”
Suddenly, Darkness - his senses had seemingly shut down. Did Dexter pass out? The sound of a heavy drum beating a rapid beat eased it's way into this--whatever this was. What was that noise? Where was it coming from? Dexter thought back to the last thing he remembered before this sudden darkness came over him. The Mirror - his reflection! His recollection of events were a puzzle and Dexter was trying his hardest to assemble the pieces together; but it was no use. Everything was just a blur to him; none of it made sense. There it goes again - that sound - it returned. What was it? What did it mean? Dexter was in a state of confusion - he was beginning to panic. He was finding it increasingly hard to breathe, but he took solace in this as it confirmed he was at least alive - for now. The sound of the drum was getting louder and warmth soon infiltrated his body. None of this made sense. The voices! Dexter remembered voices; the last one stood out to him for some reason. At the time, Dexter assumed it was the voice from his reflection, but there was something peculiar about the last voice; it was female? Could it have been...
Dexter had had enough and forced his eyes open, back into reality. Darkness remained, but the little lighting from the moon that had crept into the hotel room indicated to Dexter that he was lying in his bed. The sound of the drum was no more, but rather, it was the sound of his heart beating. The warmth that had come over Dexter remained, but he now found himself sweating profusely - lying in his own bodily fluid. Was he...dreaming? Dexter's head quickly jerked to the right when the same female voice yelled his name once more.
“DEXTER, I SWEAR TO GOD! IF YOU DO NOT SHUT UP, I WILL BITE LITTLE DEXTER OFF AND SHOVE MY FIST SO FAR DOWN YOUR THROAT THAT YOU'LL REALLY HAVE SOMETHING TO SCREAM ABOUT! NOW GIVE IT A REST! WHAT THE HELL IS THE MATTER WITH YOU?!”
He was dreaming! The last voice he heard - the female one - was Angelina's! Was he really screaming? Dexter pondered more on what the dream could possibly have meant. Was it his true internal monologue - a commentary by his conscience? If so, it certainly worked because Dexter's eyes were wide open and not just because of Angelina's screech. He had changed, and he had changed for the worse. He had been advocating for change all along, but the change had already happened - ages ago. The Retribution Rumble offered Dexter a platform like no other, but what if his reflection in his dream was right; what if there was no going back? Should he just quit while he was ahead? Dexter couldn't sleep, as the dream had plagued his thoughts. He needed to think about his future, about his wrestling career. He needed to go for a walk.
› SCENE TWO ♔
A few days removed from that dreadful night, Dexter was finally happy. He was no longer a prisoner of his mind but an ex-convict granted release. Dexter had been able to shake his insecurities and break free from the shackles on his ankles that were holding him back. Dexter was free, and he was finally able to focus on himself; focus on Retribution this Sunday - on the opportunity of a lifetime. But Dexter couldn't truly focus on himself. This Sunday, he was up against twenty-nine other people who were all vying for the same thing as him; the opportunity to Main Event Legacy. But in Dexter's mind, none of them deserved it like he did - not a single one. Yet, for reasons unknown to Dexter, nobody supported him. Nobody. The same names were being tossed around in the same sentence as ‘2014 Retribution Rumble Winner’, and that made Dexter sick. Dexter believed that everybody needed their eyes opened and what better way than a good ole' Easter Egg Hunt? Dexter had asked Kelsey Cameron to meet him at Dawes Point Park. She greeted him with a puzzled look but Dexter didn't have time for questions. He immediately handed her her first plastic egg and instructed her to read it, which she did.
“One of the favorites is Calvin Harris,
But when our paths cross, he'll be who I embarrass.”
“Credit is given where credit is due: Calvin Harris has been on one hell of a role. In fact, I would even go as far as saying that since September, he has been the most consistent wrestler in WEW. It would be hard to argue against Calvin being one of the favorites to win the Retribution Rumble, but here's the thing, Kelsey; it has taken him nearly two years. It has taken Calvin nearly two years for his name to finally mean something around here. That's two years of him constantly failing, Kelsey. For two years straight, he had failed to do anything worth noting, and that's a really long time. I'll admit it, Kelsey; I'm not one to talk. I've been with this company since January last year and the only thing I have to show for it is a hand-me-down from someone who took pity on me - who wanted to make me feel like I had accomplished something. My Universal Championship reign was a joke because I did nothing to deserve it. And the funny thing is, Kelsey; if Chance had not decided to give me the title, I would never have even been considered for a title opportunity. I was - and still am - a forgotten entity here in WEW and I have had enough. But Calvin, Calvin wasn't handed anything. Calvin was content with his failures for two whole years and now, now he's beginning to make a name for himself. I'm not willing to wait two years. I don't want to be sitting around in idle for two whole years waiting for my chance that, most likely, is never going to come. I have waited a year, and I am sick and tired of waiting. I don't want to be Calvin. I don't want to be that guy who has to wait until others depart before I start generating buzz. You think Calvin beginning to emerge as a top star on Adrenaline has nothing to do with Rhiannon and Ryan Jackson seemingly disappearing from thin air? If those two were around, do you think for one second Calvin would be viewed in the same light as he is now? Of course not! I want to be viewed as a top guy because of my work ethic; because I am the greatest wrestler in this Rumble - in WEW - by far. I don't want my time to come just because two top stars vanished and there's suddenly a vacancy at the top of ladder. I'm not willing to wait for that to happen. This Rumble, this Rumble could be my one and only chance to finally be seen as something other than Chance Rugani's failed charity case and I am not going to let it go to waste. I am done getting pity hand outs. I am done waiting in line. I am going to snatch this opportunity and I will win this Rumble. I am going to prove to every single person in the back that I am not a joke; I am not a charity case; I am a star in the making and this Sunday, a star will be born.”
Dexter stood still and smirked into the camera, before turning around and walking deeper into the park. Kelsey Cameron and the cameraman soon followed Dexter. Dexter sent Kelsey on her way to find the second egg and while she done this, Dexter began to think more about the Rumble. This was the opportunity of a life time, and truthfully, it was Dexter's first real opportunity. When he was apart of the New Regime, he lived in the shadows of two former WEW Champions; Dexter was miles away from ever getting an opportunity like this. But here he was, days away from an event that could make him or send him deeper into obscurity. Kelsey Cameron returned with another plastic egg in her hand. She separated the two halves and pulled out another piece of paper.
“She holds the prized possession of entering number thirty,
But out of all the participants, is she really worthy?”
“Earning the thirtieth spot in the Retribution Rumble should be seen as a huge accomplishment, and almost certainly should make you the favorite to win the rumble. But that's far from the case. Kelsey, do you know who entered thirtieth in the last two Rumbles? No? I wouldn't blame you because neither Elitist managed to capitalize on the opportunity that they possessed. In the inaugural Rumble, Broken Saint entered thirtieth and last year it was Calvin Harris. Neither man went on to win the rumble or even do anything that stood out. In fact, Calvin Harris will most likely be remembered for his entrance being longer than his time spent in the rumble. And I wouldn't be surprised if the same happens to Alexis this year. The funny thing with Alexis is that she virtually came out of nowhere to win the coveted thirtieth spot. The keyword being nowhere, Kelsey. Did you know that Alexis was once here in 2012? Yeah, she pestered Hannah Walters and tried to break her down, but she failed to do so. She failed to break Hannah and soon found herself getting embarrassed by the blonde on national television. After weeks and months of torment, Hannah showed the whole world that Alexis Morrison was your typical case of all talk and no walk. Alexis failed back in 2012, her brief TNT stint was a failure, and this Sunday she is going to fail once again, proving that her whole career here in WEW is synonymous with failure. It would take a disney-like miracle for her to get her hand raised in victory - despite her luxurious entry number. But here's the thing, Alexis. I don't need to enter last in order to win, because I am winning, regardless whether I'm entering first, second or thirteenth. You're simply a place filler in this rumble and another body in my way to victory. I sure as hell hope that you enjoyed your little victory on the Adrenaline Super Show last week, because that is the last time you're going to be tasting success for a while.”
Dexter gave Kelsey the signal once more, and off she went in an attempt to find the third egg. In her brief absence, Dexter couldn't help but think back to that dream, despite trying his hardest not to. However, now he was seeing the dream as a positive and no longer a negative. The dream was exactly what he needed to instil his confidence, and that was becoming evident with each word he spoke. Kelsey soon returned with the third egg and just like before, she opened it, took out the paper, and read it.
“This past year I sat back and watched as these two had more shots than an alcoholic,
All wasted by the comic and the idiotic.”
“This past year, as I sat back and struggled to even be noticed, I watched as Kevin Kilbourne and Vantage were repeatedly given chance after chance. How many opportunities are these men going to get before management realizes that they simply aren't good enough to get the job done? They will never be good enough. Granted, Vantage had two tremendous runs with the Universal Championship, but he should have stayed in that tier because that's where he had carved his niche in WEW. But then he got a bit too confident, and management were simply boosting his ego. It soon became apparent that Vantage was out of his depth and comfort zone - it was obvious, obvious to everyone but WEW themselves, and Vantage. Because no matter what, Vantage - for reasons unknown - is always go to remain in that top tier and is always going to consistently be handed chances, despite showing his inability to make anything of them. But Vantage isn't alone. No, he has Kevin Kilbourne with him and together, these two constantly waste away opportunities and chances to become the guy - chances that should have been given to me. Kevin Kilbourne Main Evented the first ever Legacy, and what does he have to show for it? Nothing - not a single thing. Yet, time after time he is given an opportunity to make something of his WEW career. But why? Why is it that no matter how many times Kevin Kilbourne fails, he is going to be given another chance? Why? Why does he deserve it? He doesn't! He's a failure, Kelsey. He's way past his prime, and the only reason why he is constantly given chances is simply because of his namesake. But what people fail to realize that his namesake equates to failure. This guy has done nothing to warrant multiple chances in this company - nothing - and it makes me sick. It makes me sick because despite the multiple victories I hold over both men, they're still considered over me. How many times, Kelsey? How many times am I going to have to defeat these men before Jayceon Taylor decides to finally reward me with an opportunity? Sadly, the answer is probably never. I have sat back and watched the same two faces challenge for a championship that, quite frankly, they cannot get. Kelsey, I have yet to be given a chance, but all I ask for is one - just one chance. Just one chance to prove that I am not a joke or a charity case. I don't need multiple chances like Kilbourne and Vantage; one chance is all I need, but it's something I'll never get. No matter how many times Vantage leaves and comes back, he's always going to be given a chance. No matter how many times Kilbourne chokes and fails, he's always going to be given a chance. But no matter how many times I defeat these two, I will never be given a chance. I will never be handed a chance and instead, I have to prove myself against twenty-nine other people. But that's okay, because this is the only chance I need. I don't need multiple chances like Vantage. You know that since returning in January, Vantage has had three chances to finally get the big one? He failed each and every time; he failed at Battlefield, he failed in the tournament and he's going to fail this Sunday. One chance, Kelsey, it's all I need. One chance.”
Dexter took the final golden egg out from his pocket and handed it to Kelsey. She broke the seal before twisting the lid off. She took out the folded piece of paper and for the final time, she read what it said.
“This Sunday, 30 people will enter; but only one will be able to say they've won.
Twenty-nine people will have their hopes and dreams shattered;
Am I apart of the twenty-nine, or am I the one?”
“Kelsey, for the past year I have had my ass seated firmly on the sidelines, patiently waiting for my turn - waiting for my name to be called - but not once did it happen. I was waiting for my chance, for my big opportunity to chase after my dream, but not once did Jayceon Taylor ever call my name. Instead, I sat back and watched as people who I had defeated countless times before got handed chance after chance, and prove time and time again that they just didn't belong in the upper echelon of talent here in WEW. But I do. I know I do, Kelsey; and if Jayceon Taylor would have just given me that once chance I have been looking for - that one chance that I deserve - then he would have found out exactly what everyone is going to find out this Sunday: I am the real deal. I am the future of this company and I only need one chance to prove it; and I don't need a disney-like miracle, or the number thirty, to do so. Calvin Harris, Kevin Kilbourne and Vantage - they've had their chances, they've had numerous chances, and each and every single time they have come up short. Well I don't need one hundred chances, Kelsey; I just need one. I just need one chance to prove to the world that I am one of - if not the best - Animosity has to offer. This Sunday, I will get that chance and I will deliver. My basement is the ceiling of the twenty-nine participants entering the Rumble this Sunday. Kelsey, I am the one.”
Dexter looked away from Kelsey and down at the grass. Up until this point in his career, Dexter had failed to amount to anything. He knew that more than anyone. However, this Sunday, Dexter knew that this was it for him. This was probably going to be his one and only chance he was going to get to prove that he can hang with the best. Dexter couldn't afford to screw this opportunity up.
“Kelsey, a few days ago I looked at myself in the mirror and I may as well have had plastic surgery, because I didn't recognize myself. I wasn't staring at the same guy who once dreamed of becoming a professional wrestler. Instead, I was staring at neglection and neglection was staring right back at me. I had neglected my true self for the past year and I had gotten too caught up with looking like a star, that I forgot how to actually be one. But this Sunday, a star will be born, and this star will be black. It will cast a shadow over everyone because once I am announced as the 2014 Retribution Rumble victor, and proceed to Main Event Legacy and win the WEW Championship, a shadow - my shadow - will be cast on the entire WEW and nothing will be the same after. With just one long overdue chance, I will do what every one of these twenty-nine competitors have dreamt, but have failed to do: win. I have a year of torment and frustration to unleash and the Retribution Rumble offers me the perfect platform to take out a year of pent up anger on twenty-nine other people. Kelsey, do you know how hard it is to come home some days and have your own girlfriend - someone who is supposed to love and support you no matter what - struggle to look you in the face because she thinks you're a failure? Do you know how hard it is to have your own father to want nothing to do with you because you're not how he wanted you to be? Well I do. I have spent my entire life trying to impress others, that I have forgotten and neglected my needs and what I want for myself. And look where that has gotten me. It has turned me into a joke. I have had to deal with people mocking me; calling me kid; looking at me like I'm not worth a dime.
For the past year, people looked at me like I was nothing, like I was inferior to the dust on the sole of their boots. Hell, the only reason why people knew my name was because Chance Rugani endorsed me. Had that not been the case, I probably would have been out of WEW and I wouldn't be standing here today. But he took pity on me - everyone took pity on me - because they thought I was never going to amount to anything. The little success that I have had in this company is for that very reason. Chance Rugani gave me his Universal Championship - he literally gave it me - because he didn't want to endorse a failure; as far as he was concerned, that's exactly what I was. To everyone in WEW, that's what I still am, Kelsey. I am someone who had to be handed a title to even get mentioned, and it's funny, because here I am, still here; unnoticed and under the radar. But that's okay, because it'll work in my favor. How many people had Cody Taylor and Gabriel Asar winning the Retribution Rumble? No one. Not a soul. And like them, I will win, and my name will actually mean something. I wont be gone within a few months like Cody Taylor, and I won't be swept under the rug and become ‘just another guy’ like Gabriel Asar. I will become the future. This chance is likely going to be my only chance because my name doesn't mean crap around here; and I'm not going to continuously be handed chances like Vantage and Kevin Kilbourne. This is it for me. It's now or never. This week, thirty people are going to look right into a camera and predict their victory, but only one will win. Kelsey, WEW's future is Black, because I am the one.”
Dexter stood there, staring hard into the camera. There was nothing more left to say. This was possibly the only chance Dexter was ever going to get in his WEW career to make a name for himself, and he knew that if he blew it, he may as well quit just like his reflection suggested. Without saying a word to either Kelsey Cameron or the cameraman, Dexter walked off and headed towards the park's exit. Dexter finally has his chance and like he said; it's the only chance he needs.
The moon was not the bright, gleaming moon of deserved happiness easing it's way into the hotel room to join in with the celebrations, but instead, a dull, sombre reflection of Dexter's depression, trapped behind prison bars and failing to enjoy it's own existence. This was not the way to live, but it was the way that Dexter had been living these past few months. A prisoner of his own mind and shortcomings, Dexter found his only companion to be the guardian of night - only this guardian understood what Dexter was going through; forgotten, under-appreciated, and depressed. Lately, Dexter had often found himself lying in his hotel bed next to his girlfriend, Angelina Von Pierce, staring out into the night sky and seeking solace with his last remaining companion. He related to the Moon, for the Moon was a fictional construct of Dexter's imagination, and in Dexter's imagination, the Moon, too, was depressed, defeated, under-appreciated, forgotten; and where Dexter was currently lying, the Moon resembled a guilty prisoner trapped behind the shutter blinds. There was just one problem, the Moon didn't resemble anything, it's simply the moon and not a reflection of Dexter in the slightest.
But Dexter had a reflection, and for reasons unbeknownst to him, he was heading towards the bathroom to check it. It sounded crazy, but here Dexter was, staring at himself in the oval-shaped mirror hanging above the bathroom sink. Dexter stood there in confusion. This wasn't him, this wasn't the Dexter that walked into WEW headquarters in San Jose, California to sign a contract. What happened to that guy? Where had he gone? Dexter barely recognised himself. He's looking in the mirror but all Dexter can see is neglection and regret. The Dexter of old would be proudly staring back at him, brimming with confidence, but what Dexter saw was a man who had everything but confidence. Dexter had been crying for change these past few months but what he had failed to realize was that the change had already taken place, and for the worse.
Dexter continued to stand there in front of the mirror, staring, searching for answers to the questions he didn't know. His gaze soon turned towards the taps in front of him. He grabbed the head of the cold tap on the right and twisted it, cupping his hands underneath the nozzle and throwing the cold water in his face. Was he crazy? Was Dexter crazy for standing in front of a mirror just to see his reflection? Dexter didn't know - at this moment, Dexter didn't know anything - but did the mirror? Dexter hesitated a little, but he soon opened his mouth and...spoke to his reflection?
“Mirror! Mirror on the wall! This Sunday, am I going to rise above them all?”
A harsh cackle quickly filled the bathroom and Dexter's eyes immediately began to survey the room in an attempt to find the source of the demented laughter. A loud voice soon penetrated the witch-like cackle and it was coming from the...mirror? Dexter's attention soon turned back to the mirror and he was in complete disbelief in what he was seeing: his reflection was speaking to him.
“Dexter, poor Dexter. So young, so foolish. Thirty people are entering the Retribution Rumble and only one can prevail and rise above the rest. I foresee many with a legitimate chance at getting their hand raised in victory; Calvin Harris, Jaedon Church, Kevin Kilbourne, Vantage - you don't even come close. Don't you see? You're just another guy! Simply a name on a piece of paper to make up the numbers. That's all you have ever been: a name. Your existence is acknowledged but not cared for. You're a burden on society, Dexter. Your own father couldn't bare to look you in the eye. He took one look at you and he saw exactly what I'm seeing now - exactly what Chance Rugani saw: a failure - someone who was never going to amount to anything. And was your father Nostradamus? Because he certainly saw the future - your future. Look at yourself, Dexter. When was the last time you mattered? When was the last time people truly cared for you? Never! You're a slave to your own failures, Dexter - to your misery - and that is always going to be the case. Do you really think you stand a chance against those twenty-nine other people?”
Dexter thought about the question a little. Did he really think he stood a chance? Of course he did! But the more he thought about it, the more he began to doubt himself. His reflection was right: ever since his alliance with Chance Rugani, Dexter has been a failure. His tenure in WEW since then hasn't amounted to anything but a constant struggle - a constant struggle to win, a constant struggle to be booked regularly and a constant struggle to even get a fraction of the reaction he was initially receiving beforehand. He really was a failure. Worse; he was on the decline and as Dexter stood staring at his reflection, he failed - no pun intended - to see a way to reroute his downward spiral. He really couldn't win the rumble, could he? The loud laughter bounced off the four bathroom walls once more and Dexter's focus returned to the mirror.
“Look at yourself - you make me sick! You're doubting yourself; you've always been doubting yourself the moment you aligned with Chance. You thought you were in cruise control riding the coattails of Animosity's most decorated Elitist, but you soon found out the hard way that you were simply holding them and preventing them from getting filthy. What happened to you? You once were this hot, rising star who had the crowds' eyes fixated to your every move. Now, now you're reminiscent of a cell phone in a basement; you get no reception. Dexter, you were once me.”
“I was once you?”
“Well, you're certainly not me now. I was someone who cared for the fans, someone who believed in working their way to the top. You on the other hand, you saw the easy way out. You saw the train to immediate stardom and bought a ticket. You sold out, Dexter! You completely went against the true you, and I can't help but laugh at what you've become: a pathetic failure - another washed up Elitist who reached his peak before he even got started. You could have made something of yourself, Dexter, but it seems like you tried your hardest to prevent us from becoming the great star we were once destined for. You killed me, Dexter, and now look at what you have become. There's no going back!”
He was right! Dexter - or more so his reflection - was right! Dexter had strayed from his true self. This wasn't the wrestler he wanted to become. He wanted to be someone the crowd loved to see week in and week out. He wanted to be someone kids could look up to. He was everything but that. He was just another guy who everyone couldn't care less to see. He was a pathetic failure and a washed up Elitist who had reached his peak. Dexter stood there, staring at his reflection, wondering to himself how he could have let this happen. The one thing he told himself that he wouldn't allow happen had happened: he had sold out. He sold himself to Rugani for fifteen minutes of fame and he barely received two seconds. Dexter was disgusted with himself. He continued to stare into the mirror but he was no longer seeing his reflection, but his past. This was the person who Dexter once was. This was someone who he was happy to be. Not the who person he had became. He wanted to be that guy again.
“Is there really no going back? is this it for me? Is this really my end?”
“Haven't you been listening, Dexter? You may as well quit whilst your ahead. Stop wasting your time - everyone's time. Just stop. You're embarrassing yourself. Just quit, Dexter. Stop!”
“No!”
“Stop, Dexter!”
“No! No! I won't stop! NO!”
“Dexter! DEXTER?!”
Suddenly, Darkness - his senses had seemingly shut down. Did Dexter pass out? The sound of a heavy drum beating a rapid beat eased it's way into this--whatever this was. What was that noise? Where was it coming from? Dexter thought back to the last thing he remembered before this sudden darkness came over him. The Mirror - his reflection! His recollection of events were a puzzle and Dexter was trying his hardest to assemble the pieces together; but it was no use. Everything was just a blur to him; none of it made sense. There it goes again - that sound - it returned. What was it? What did it mean? Dexter was in a state of confusion - he was beginning to panic. He was finding it increasingly hard to breathe, but he took solace in this as it confirmed he was at least alive - for now. The sound of the drum was getting louder and warmth soon infiltrated his body. None of this made sense. The voices! Dexter remembered voices; the last one stood out to him for some reason. At the time, Dexter assumed it was the voice from his reflection, but there was something peculiar about the last voice; it was female? Could it have been...
Dexter had had enough and forced his eyes open, back into reality. Darkness remained, but the little lighting from the moon that had crept into the hotel room indicated to Dexter that he was lying in his bed. The sound of the drum was no more, but rather, it was the sound of his heart beating. The warmth that had come over Dexter remained, but he now found himself sweating profusely - lying in his own bodily fluid. Was he...dreaming? Dexter's head quickly jerked to the right when the same female voice yelled his name once more.
“DEXTER, I SWEAR TO GOD! IF YOU DO NOT SHUT UP, I WILL BITE LITTLE DEXTER OFF AND SHOVE MY FIST SO FAR DOWN YOUR THROAT THAT YOU'LL REALLY HAVE SOMETHING TO SCREAM ABOUT! NOW GIVE IT A REST! WHAT THE HELL IS THE MATTER WITH YOU?!”
He was dreaming! The last voice he heard - the female one - was Angelina's! Was he really screaming? Dexter pondered more on what the dream could possibly have meant. Was it his true internal monologue - a commentary by his conscience? If so, it certainly worked because Dexter's eyes were wide open and not just because of Angelina's screech. He had changed, and he had changed for the worse. He had been advocating for change all along, but the change had already happened - ages ago. The Retribution Rumble offered Dexter a platform like no other, but what if his reflection in his dream was right; what if there was no going back? Should he just quit while he was ahead? Dexter couldn't sleep, as the dream had plagued his thoughts. He needed to think about his future, about his wrestling career. He needed to go for a walk.
› SCENE TWO ♔
A few days removed from that dreadful night, Dexter was finally happy. He was no longer a prisoner of his mind but an ex-convict granted release. Dexter had been able to shake his insecurities and break free from the shackles on his ankles that were holding him back. Dexter was free, and he was finally able to focus on himself; focus on Retribution this Sunday - on the opportunity of a lifetime. But Dexter couldn't truly focus on himself. This Sunday, he was up against twenty-nine other people who were all vying for the same thing as him; the opportunity to Main Event Legacy. But in Dexter's mind, none of them deserved it like he did - not a single one. Yet, for reasons unknown to Dexter, nobody supported him. Nobody. The same names were being tossed around in the same sentence as ‘2014 Retribution Rumble Winner’, and that made Dexter sick. Dexter believed that everybody needed their eyes opened and what better way than a good ole' Easter Egg Hunt? Dexter had asked Kelsey Cameron to meet him at Dawes Point Park. She greeted him with a puzzled look but Dexter didn't have time for questions. He immediately handed her her first plastic egg and instructed her to read it, which she did.
“One of the favorites is Calvin Harris,
But when our paths cross, he'll be who I embarrass.”
“Credit is given where credit is due: Calvin Harris has been on one hell of a role. In fact, I would even go as far as saying that since September, he has been the most consistent wrestler in WEW. It would be hard to argue against Calvin being one of the favorites to win the Retribution Rumble, but here's the thing, Kelsey; it has taken him nearly two years. It has taken Calvin nearly two years for his name to finally mean something around here. That's two years of him constantly failing, Kelsey. For two years straight, he had failed to do anything worth noting, and that's a really long time. I'll admit it, Kelsey; I'm not one to talk. I've been with this company since January last year and the only thing I have to show for it is a hand-me-down from someone who took pity on me - who wanted to make me feel like I had accomplished something. My Universal Championship reign was a joke because I did nothing to deserve it. And the funny thing is, Kelsey; if Chance had not decided to give me the title, I would never have even been considered for a title opportunity. I was - and still am - a forgotten entity here in WEW and I have had enough. But Calvin, Calvin wasn't handed anything. Calvin was content with his failures for two whole years and now, now he's beginning to make a name for himself. I'm not willing to wait two years. I don't want to be sitting around in idle for two whole years waiting for my chance that, most likely, is never going to come. I have waited a year, and I am sick and tired of waiting. I don't want to be Calvin. I don't want to be that guy who has to wait until others depart before I start generating buzz. You think Calvin beginning to emerge as a top star on Adrenaline has nothing to do with Rhiannon and Ryan Jackson seemingly disappearing from thin air? If those two were around, do you think for one second Calvin would be viewed in the same light as he is now? Of course not! I want to be viewed as a top guy because of my work ethic; because I am the greatest wrestler in this Rumble - in WEW - by far. I don't want my time to come just because two top stars vanished and there's suddenly a vacancy at the top of ladder. I'm not willing to wait for that to happen. This Rumble, this Rumble could be my one and only chance to finally be seen as something other than Chance Rugani's failed charity case and I am not going to let it go to waste. I am done getting pity hand outs. I am done waiting in line. I am going to snatch this opportunity and I will win this Rumble. I am going to prove to every single person in the back that I am not a joke; I am not a charity case; I am a star in the making and this Sunday, a star will be born.”
Dexter stood still and smirked into the camera, before turning around and walking deeper into the park. Kelsey Cameron and the cameraman soon followed Dexter. Dexter sent Kelsey on her way to find the second egg and while she done this, Dexter began to think more about the Rumble. This was the opportunity of a life time, and truthfully, it was Dexter's first real opportunity. When he was apart of the New Regime, he lived in the shadows of two former WEW Champions; Dexter was miles away from ever getting an opportunity like this. But here he was, days away from an event that could make him or send him deeper into obscurity. Kelsey Cameron returned with another plastic egg in her hand. She separated the two halves and pulled out another piece of paper.
“She holds the prized possession of entering number thirty,
But out of all the participants, is she really worthy?”
“Earning the thirtieth spot in the Retribution Rumble should be seen as a huge accomplishment, and almost certainly should make you the favorite to win the rumble. But that's far from the case. Kelsey, do you know who entered thirtieth in the last two Rumbles? No? I wouldn't blame you because neither Elitist managed to capitalize on the opportunity that they possessed. In the inaugural Rumble, Broken Saint entered thirtieth and last year it was Calvin Harris. Neither man went on to win the rumble or even do anything that stood out. In fact, Calvin Harris will most likely be remembered for his entrance being longer than his time spent in the rumble. And I wouldn't be surprised if the same happens to Alexis this year. The funny thing with Alexis is that she virtually came out of nowhere to win the coveted thirtieth spot. The keyword being nowhere, Kelsey. Did you know that Alexis was once here in 2012? Yeah, she pestered Hannah Walters and tried to break her down, but she failed to do so. She failed to break Hannah and soon found herself getting embarrassed by the blonde on national television. After weeks and months of torment, Hannah showed the whole world that Alexis Morrison was your typical case of all talk and no walk. Alexis failed back in 2012, her brief TNT stint was a failure, and this Sunday she is going to fail once again, proving that her whole career here in WEW is synonymous with failure. It would take a disney-like miracle for her to get her hand raised in victory - despite her luxurious entry number. But here's the thing, Alexis. I don't need to enter last in order to win, because I am winning, regardless whether I'm entering first, second or thirteenth. You're simply a place filler in this rumble and another body in my way to victory. I sure as hell hope that you enjoyed your little victory on the Adrenaline Super Show last week, because that is the last time you're going to be tasting success for a while.”
Dexter gave Kelsey the signal once more, and off she went in an attempt to find the third egg. In her brief absence, Dexter couldn't help but think back to that dream, despite trying his hardest not to. However, now he was seeing the dream as a positive and no longer a negative. The dream was exactly what he needed to instil his confidence, and that was becoming evident with each word he spoke. Kelsey soon returned with the third egg and just like before, she opened it, took out the paper, and read it.
“This past year I sat back and watched as these two had more shots than an alcoholic,
All wasted by the comic and the idiotic.”
“This past year, as I sat back and struggled to even be noticed, I watched as Kevin Kilbourne and Vantage were repeatedly given chance after chance. How many opportunities are these men going to get before management realizes that they simply aren't good enough to get the job done? They will never be good enough. Granted, Vantage had two tremendous runs with the Universal Championship, but he should have stayed in that tier because that's where he had carved his niche in WEW. But then he got a bit too confident, and management were simply boosting his ego. It soon became apparent that Vantage was out of his depth and comfort zone - it was obvious, obvious to everyone but WEW themselves, and Vantage. Because no matter what, Vantage - for reasons unknown - is always go to remain in that top tier and is always going to consistently be handed chances, despite showing his inability to make anything of them. But Vantage isn't alone. No, he has Kevin Kilbourne with him and together, these two constantly waste away opportunities and chances to become the guy - chances that should have been given to me. Kevin Kilbourne Main Evented the first ever Legacy, and what does he have to show for it? Nothing - not a single thing. Yet, time after time he is given an opportunity to make something of his WEW career. But why? Why is it that no matter how many times Kevin Kilbourne fails, he is going to be given another chance? Why? Why does he deserve it? He doesn't! He's a failure, Kelsey. He's way past his prime, and the only reason why he is constantly given chances is simply because of his namesake. But what people fail to realize that his namesake equates to failure. This guy has done nothing to warrant multiple chances in this company - nothing - and it makes me sick. It makes me sick because despite the multiple victories I hold over both men, they're still considered over me. How many times, Kelsey? How many times am I going to have to defeat these men before Jayceon Taylor decides to finally reward me with an opportunity? Sadly, the answer is probably never. I have sat back and watched the same two faces challenge for a championship that, quite frankly, they cannot get. Kelsey, I have yet to be given a chance, but all I ask for is one - just one chance. Just one chance to prove that I am not a joke or a charity case. I don't need multiple chances like Kilbourne and Vantage; one chance is all I need, but it's something I'll never get. No matter how many times Vantage leaves and comes back, he's always going to be given a chance. No matter how many times Kilbourne chokes and fails, he's always going to be given a chance. But no matter how many times I defeat these two, I will never be given a chance. I will never be handed a chance and instead, I have to prove myself against twenty-nine other people. But that's okay, because this is the only chance I need. I don't need multiple chances like Vantage. You know that since returning in January, Vantage has had three chances to finally get the big one? He failed each and every time; he failed at Battlefield, he failed in the tournament and he's going to fail this Sunday. One chance, Kelsey, it's all I need. One chance.”
Dexter took the final golden egg out from his pocket and handed it to Kelsey. She broke the seal before twisting the lid off. She took out the folded piece of paper and for the final time, she read what it said.
“This Sunday, 30 people will enter; but only one will be able to say they've won.
Twenty-nine people will have their hopes and dreams shattered;
Am I apart of the twenty-nine, or am I the one?”
“Kelsey, for the past year I have had my ass seated firmly on the sidelines, patiently waiting for my turn - waiting for my name to be called - but not once did it happen. I was waiting for my chance, for my big opportunity to chase after my dream, but not once did Jayceon Taylor ever call my name. Instead, I sat back and watched as people who I had defeated countless times before got handed chance after chance, and prove time and time again that they just didn't belong in the upper echelon of talent here in WEW. But I do. I know I do, Kelsey; and if Jayceon Taylor would have just given me that once chance I have been looking for - that one chance that I deserve - then he would have found out exactly what everyone is going to find out this Sunday: I am the real deal. I am the future of this company and I only need one chance to prove it; and I don't need a disney-like miracle, or the number thirty, to do so. Calvin Harris, Kevin Kilbourne and Vantage - they've had their chances, they've had numerous chances, and each and every single time they have come up short. Well I don't need one hundred chances, Kelsey; I just need one. I just need one chance to prove to the world that I am one of - if not the best - Animosity has to offer. This Sunday, I will get that chance and I will deliver. My basement is the ceiling of the twenty-nine participants entering the Rumble this Sunday. Kelsey, I am the one.”
Dexter looked away from Kelsey and down at the grass. Up until this point in his career, Dexter had failed to amount to anything. He knew that more than anyone. However, this Sunday, Dexter knew that this was it for him. This was probably going to be his one and only chance he was going to get to prove that he can hang with the best. Dexter couldn't afford to screw this opportunity up.
“Kelsey, a few days ago I looked at myself in the mirror and I may as well have had plastic surgery, because I didn't recognize myself. I wasn't staring at the same guy who once dreamed of becoming a professional wrestler. Instead, I was staring at neglection and neglection was staring right back at me. I had neglected my true self for the past year and I had gotten too caught up with looking like a star, that I forgot how to actually be one. But this Sunday, a star will be born, and this star will be black. It will cast a shadow over everyone because once I am announced as the 2014 Retribution Rumble victor, and proceed to Main Event Legacy and win the WEW Championship, a shadow - my shadow - will be cast on the entire WEW and nothing will be the same after. With just one long overdue chance, I will do what every one of these twenty-nine competitors have dreamt, but have failed to do: win. I have a year of torment and frustration to unleash and the Retribution Rumble offers me the perfect platform to take out a year of pent up anger on twenty-nine other people. Kelsey, do you know how hard it is to come home some days and have your own girlfriend - someone who is supposed to love and support you no matter what - struggle to look you in the face because she thinks you're a failure? Do you know how hard it is to have your own father to want nothing to do with you because you're not how he wanted you to be? Well I do. I have spent my entire life trying to impress others, that I have forgotten and neglected my needs and what I want for myself. And look where that has gotten me. It has turned me into a joke. I have had to deal with people mocking me; calling me kid; looking at me like I'm not worth a dime.
For the past year, people looked at me like I was nothing, like I was inferior to the dust on the sole of their boots. Hell, the only reason why people knew my name was because Chance Rugani endorsed me. Had that not been the case, I probably would have been out of WEW and I wouldn't be standing here today. But he took pity on me - everyone took pity on me - because they thought I was never going to amount to anything. The little success that I have had in this company is for that very reason. Chance Rugani gave me his Universal Championship - he literally gave it me - because he didn't want to endorse a failure; as far as he was concerned, that's exactly what I was. To everyone in WEW, that's what I still am, Kelsey. I am someone who had to be handed a title to even get mentioned, and it's funny, because here I am, still here; unnoticed and under the radar. But that's okay, because it'll work in my favor. How many people had Cody Taylor and Gabriel Asar winning the Retribution Rumble? No one. Not a soul. And like them, I will win, and my name will actually mean something. I wont be gone within a few months like Cody Taylor, and I won't be swept under the rug and become ‘just another guy’ like Gabriel Asar. I will become the future. This chance is likely going to be my only chance because my name doesn't mean crap around here; and I'm not going to continuously be handed chances like Vantage and Kevin Kilbourne. This is it for me. It's now or never. This week, thirty people are going to look right into a camera and predict their victory, but only one will win. Kelsey, WEW's future is Black, because I am the one.”
Dexter stood there, staring hard into the camera. There was nothing more left to say. This was possibly the only chance Dexter was ever going to get in his WEW career to make a name for himself, and he knew that if he blew it, he may as well quit just like his reflection suggested. Without saying a word to either Kelsey Cameron or the cameraman, Dexter walked off and headed towards the park's exit. Dexter finally has his chance and like he said; it's the only chance he needs.