SD 40: MAIN Event- Sipes vs Page

[Ben Jacobs]

RP Below

2 point early rp bonus for each wrestler's first rp which scores above 10 and is posted prior to Wednesday, June 10th @ 3:30 PM CST.

RP deadline is Tuesday, June 16th @ 11:59 PM CST

Match & segment deadline is Wednesday, June 17th@ 8:30 AM CST.

[High Society]

Tick. A lifelong ambition. Tock. The burden of expectation. Tick. A second chance. Tock. A final shot at the big time. Tick. Destined for greatness. Tock. Resigned to mediocrity. Tick. A new beginning. Tock. The Final chapter?

Bzzzzzzzzzzzzz…

An oak mantelpiece adorned with trophies and awards. Sporting cups, diplomas, statues, figurines. An egg timer.

Bzzzz.

An outstretched arm presses a button and the ringing stops. The room is quiet but for the gentle rhythmic ticking of an ancient grandfather clock suspended on the wall.

Jonathan Page, dressed casually in a silk kimono-style bathrobe, rests an arm on the wooden mantelpiece. His perfect blond pageboy haircut illuminated by the sunlight streaming through the window.

He addresses the people.

Time is a precious thing. A commodity in this hectic world we live in. It seems that as we slow down the pace of life increases. Indeed if you want to achieve anything in this world you have to be quick on the draw.

Page examines the timer in his hand as he ponders this thought.

This is certainly the case in our business. Stop to catch your breath for just one minute and you’re left behind. Suddenly you’re a has-been, an erstwhile. You’re yesterday’s man. This is a ruthless business. It has no regard for loyalty or good intentions. It feels no remorse. It has no moral obligation and more importantly it shows no sympathy. This is not a kind industry. Nor is it a fair one. And that is precisely why the Jonathan Page’s of this world prosper.

Time and time again I have shown these territories just how ruthless I can be. Just ask my old pal Nathan Kaye. We arrived in this country together. We plied our trade together and we won the SCW tag titles together. We were as close as brothers. Comrades in a foreign land. And yet… when my dear lady Scarlet suggested Kaye may be holding me back, preventing me from reaching my full potential, I thought nothing of severing that relationship. He was stealing my thunder. Something had to be done. Admittedly my methods were rather crude. Kaye certainly didn’t take kindly to the steel chair I planted on his head. Nevertheless, it got my message across and left him in no doubt that it was MY star on the rise. Not his.

And how about the time I spent in LEGACY? While I was there I not only found time to initiate one of the most dominant wrestling factions in the Midwest, I succeeded in becoming the longest reigning Television champion the organisation had ever seen! I was a god to those people. I truly believe they saw me as the second coming. And yet when the company came under scrutiny for financial irregularities I was the first to jump ship. I saw the iceberg. I wasn’t going to stay there out of some blind sense of loyalty. I wasn’t willing to swear my allegiance to that crumbling heap. Barely was the ink dry on my RCW contract before it was announced LEGACY had gone into administration. The last I heard they were selling the ring, bit by bit. I was the only man on that roster that didn’t let personal feelings get in the way of business. [/color]

Page places the timer back on the mantelpiece and moves through the luxury penthouse flat towards the balcony.

It should have been apparent to all those who witnessed my very first RCW appearance that I am not the kind of man who is content to fit in. I don’t care about being one of the boys. I have no aspirations to become part of the furniture. I attacked Cletus Beauchamp because quite frankly I was insulted that I’d joined an organisation that would allow a man of my stature to be seen anywhere near a vulgar creature such as Cletus. Even a gentleman has his limits.

You see throughout my career I have been subject to many trials and tribulations. I have courted controversy on more than one occasion. Hell, I’ve even faced a moral dilemma or two. And yet I stand before you people today, in peak physical condition, with a roll of bills in my wallet, countless women at my beckoned call and a title shot on the horizon. How does he do it, I hear you ask. Well, I shan’t be coy. It’s just not in my nature. The truth is that I am a man of action. I like to strike while the iron is hot. I made it perfectly clear last week that the one sole reason for me leaving Hog Heaven without the Natural title was my reluctance to pin Nathan Sipes when the opportunity first presented itself. I still maintain that had I not been so concerned with putting on a show for those cretinous fans I would be addressing you now with five pounds of gold resting on my shoulder.

You see for the first time in my long and illustrious career I allowed public pressure to influence my actions. For just a moment I concerned myself with the expectations of the minions, the minors, the nobodies of this industry and my penance was a missed opportunity. You ask anybody who knows anything about “Dandy” Jonathan Page just what it is that makes him such an utterly compelling sport’s personality, what puts him head and shoulders above the competition, what sets him apart from the crowd and they will tell you above all it is his regal and noble bearing. His single-mindedness. His marvellous sense of self-preservation. People who understand this sport -the people who can look past my shocking good looks, my magnetic personality, my searing charisma - they know that my greatest asset is my unwavering ambition. I am of course a self-made man and contrary to popular belief I have reached the heady heights of this business though hard graft and hard graft alone. Not through listening to the fans. Not through pandering to their wants and desires. That is why when I square off with Nathan Sipes at Southern Dynamite 40 I shall be one hundred percent focused on the task at hand. I shan’t be seeking the approval of the masses.

But please don’t think for a minute that I am underestimating the magnitude of a headlining slot. Far from it. It’s just not in my nature to put on anything less than a dazzling performance. I am merely putting things into perspective. I will not allow the sense of occasion detract from the prize at stake. Not again. Hog Heaven taught me that. That is why I am proposing a special stipulation for this match. Something to ensure the same mistakes are not made again. A condition that will separate the men from the boys.

Leaning on the railings of the penthouse balcony Page gazes dreamily on the Arkansas skyline. He moves back inside.

Nathan, on Wednesday evening at the Fayetteville Boys & Girls Club I intend to show the paying public and all those watching at home just why I am the superior athlete. I assure you that within fifteen minutes of that bell ringing I will have you on your knees begging for mercy. Fifteen minutes is all I need to capture that title of yours. In fact I am so confident of victory that I was greatly tempted to suggest a three minute match, but as Scarlet pointed out, how could I deprive the RCW faithful of a whole fifteen minutes with their favourite sports personality. The majority of those people only attend the show in the hope that they will catch a glimpse of the most glamorous couple in wrestling today. Three minutes just isn’t enough. So how about it Nate? Do you think you’re up to the challenge?
[/color][/color]
Page picks up the egg timer again, setting the dial.

Think about it. A mere fifteen minutes stands between you entering that ring a champion and leaving a has-been. Just fifteen minutes between us locking up and you kissing that belt goodbye. Just fifteen minutes between wrestling Jonathan Page for the Natural title and telling your friends you were beaten by the best.

Bzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

Page taps the button.

Fifteen minutes is all it takes.

[High Society]

He’s here. I can see the bounce of headlights as his sports car pulls into the garage. Next comes the slam of the door followed shortly by the click of the central locking.

2AM. I’ve been waiting up all night, nursing the same cup of stale coffee for the past few hours.

Footsteps on gravel. The fumbling of keys in the door.

He’s changed. It’s been a gradual process but I’ve noticed. Been aware of it for some time. He seems detached. Cold even.

Once inside he gravitates to the living room. The clink of crystal on glass resonates.

His drinking is certainly an issue. He used to be a social drinker but now it’s a routine. A whisky at midday. A few beers after lunch. By tea time he’s already inebriated more often than not. This is the catalyst for the mood swings, the self pity, the regrets. He’s still the same in many ways. The swagger is still there. As is the charming smile. The reassurances. But they’re not real. The swagger seems like more of an affectation these days. The smile forced. The reassurances stilted. It’s all a façade.

Despite high hopes, despite title shots and headlining slots, there are always the dark clouds, and ominous signs; heavy over him, but heavier still over me, worried and living in fear. The anxiety again, screwing up his sporting life, chain-smoking and biting his nails, having those dreams again, those nightmares that tell him I’ve blown it, he’s blown it, his days of doubt, his nights of fear.

Portentous footsteps slowly working their way upstairs.

But the insecurities, the constant battles, these are the very things that drive him, that spur him on. I can see the perceived arrogance and flamboyance for what they really are. They conceal his crippling neurosis, his debilitating sense of paranoia. If he is self-absorbed, if he is obnoxious, if he’s overbearing, it’s my fault.

I feed his ego. Always have. I encouraged his vanity, even found it strangely touching. Nursed the narcissistic tendencies, the ruthless ambition, the disquieting notion that winning is everything. That victory is a redeemer.

His breathing is heavy as he crosses the landing and begins to turn the door knob.

I've created a monster.

“Here’s Johnny!”

---
Sitting in what some would deem a study, a room on the first floor of an antiquated Fort Worth farmhouse, his eyes roam the racks of books that surround him. Row after row of coloured backs and dusty tops that give an air of distinction not just to the room but to the whole house. And yet he knew this was not a literary family. The volumes were merely foliage, cultivated to conceal the bare stem of any real personality.

The Mayfield’s were a wrestling family. Page first encountered them shortly after arriving in the States with Scarlet and tag partner Nathan Kaye. The three of them were scheduled to sign a contract with Total Talent Wrestling, an up and coming organisation based in Chicago. Hank Mayfield had other ideas.

An audacious character who wore garish clothes and big loud jewellery Hank was every inch the cowboy. Having read about the two promising Brits hoping to try their luck on the American circuit Hank decided to try and sign them to his own All-star Texas Wrestling. Hank’s sons Cody and Jesse were sent to the airport whereby they intercepted the group and drove them back to their Fort Worth home. After sizing them up Hank made it quite apparent that he intended to sign them himself. The young lads from Yorkshire were dubious. They had after all made a verbal contract with TTW. Hank was insistent, promising them more money and a fast track to the tag titles. After some deliberation they signed.

It was a good decision. Page and Kaye were crowned tag champions within a couple of months and enjoyed the attention this brought them. The more ambitious of the two Page made sure to develop a strong relationship with the Mayfield family, socialising with Cody and Jesse and bonding with Hank. Hank grew very fond of Page, recognising in him a drive and charisma that he himself had always possessed. Page became part of the family.

However, this relationship proved to have rather detrimental effects on his professional life. As Page became more and more engrossed in the rock and roll lifestyle enjoyed by the Mayfield sons, celebrated athletes in their own right, he embarked upon a path to destruction.

Noticing that Page’s preoccupation with the nightlife was taking a toll on his in the ring performances Kaye took exception to his friend’s decadent ways and grew jealous of the attention he was receiving. The friendship ended abruptly when Scarlet, who noticed Kaye’s disillusionment, suggested to Page that Kaye’s dissatisfaction could lead to trouble. It was Hank that suggested Page publicise the break-up in the way that he did. Hank had nothing against Kaye but foresaw a singles career for HIS protégé.

Sadly it wasn’t to be. Page was starting to enjoy himself a little too much and after a series of drug convictions he was threatened with deportation unless he left Texas. Mayfield realised that the problems weren’t entirely self-inflicted, that his son’s had played a part and promised Page that once the trouble had died down he would bring him back to ATW.

Page didn’t hear from the Mayfield’s for some time after that and as the time passed he grew more and more bitter about Hank’s broken promises. Finally after several years had elapsed he received the call from Cody saying that Hank wished to see him and could he make it over to the ranch. He still resented the time it had taken Mayfield to get in touch but he obliged, travelling to Texas more out of curiosity than any sense of duty.
Hank entered the study and Page got to his feet immediately.

“How ya’ doin’ John?”

Pulling Page to his feet Hank wrapped his massive arms round the Englishman. At 67 he looked almost exactly the same as Page had left him. He was a little bit balder and a little bit bigger round the midriff but besides that he was the same old Hank.

The two men chatted for some time, waxing lyrical about the old days, reminiscing about events that seemed at once so close and so far in the distance. After a matter of hours had elapsed Page’s curiosity got the better of him and he finally mustered up the courage to ask Hank the reason for his call.

“Well John, I’ve been monitoring your progress for some time now. I charted your career ever since you left us, in fact. Truth be told, I wasn’t sure that you were ready to come back to ATW. You’re a good athlete kid, you’ve always been that, but I couldn’t see the passion… the… the ambition. After you left us it just seemed you lost something.”

Page’s fists clenched, his cheek burning. How dare this old hack analyse his career. Who was he to judge!?


“Don’t look at me like that. I shoot from the hip. You know that. Anyway, I see you got your career back on track. You’re getting regular work, another shot at the title. I’m impressed John, really. That’s why I’m asking you to come back to us.”

Page snorted. He knew this could be the only reason for Hank instigating the meeting and yet to hear him utter the words the proposal seemed to take on an extra significance.

“I don’t know what to say Hank.”

“Not like you to be stuck for words, kiddo.”

“A lot has changed.”

“Think about the old times. The packed arenas, the recognition, the money!”

“I… umm….”

“John, it’s time for the next step. You don’t want to be a big fish in a small pond for the rest of you’re life, do you?

Page sighed.

“Come on, what do you say?”

“Give me time to think about it.”

[Nate Sipes/The New Level]

~At Hog Heaven: Going Wild, a technically sound warrior fought a pompous but talented challenger as the two men fought over a piece of gold: Nate Sipes vs. Jonathan Page for the RCW Natural Championship. In that match, Sipes proved why he was the champion and made a successful defense of his title. Now, a rematch has been signed and Nate’s friend-turned-foe Alex Crowe is assigned as the special guest referee. Can Nate repeat over the tough challenge of Page? Is it possible for lightning to strike twice? What effect will Alex Crowe and his “don’t trust anybody” attitude have on the match? Only time will tell.~

6/14/09
Curwensville, PA
***************

[Inside the local YMCA, three familiar men train in preparation for their upcoming match or for matches not yet signed. Nate is bench pressing over 300 pounds; barely showing a strain for each rep. On the other side of the weight room, the RCW Hog Wild Tag Team Champions Wacko Carl and Extreme Beavis are working out themselves with their 7DA stable mate. Beavis is busy on the leg press while Carl works out with the barbells. Carl finishes his set, as does Beavis, and they both walk over to stand next to Nate while he finishes his set. After he does, they all walk out of the weight room and into the locker room. They wipe down with their towels as they start changing into their street clothes.]

WC: So, Nate, when are we leaving for Arkansas?

NS: As soon as I finish a promo back at my apartment.

EB: Why not just wait until you get down there with the camera crew?

NS: For one thing, they were kind enough to volunteer to record the promo over the internet from my webcam. Second, since I’m still here anyway, why not take care of it while I can? And third, Doug hooked me up with an interview live via-satellite with Conan O’Brien in two days so I won’t have time to gather up a film crew and shoot something then. They’ll be busy enough catching up to guys like Doug and Ase these last few days when they conduct their promos.

EB: Just figured I’d ask. Anyway, thanks for letting us train with you this past week. It would’ve just been weird going to train with HJ again.

NS: Do you mean “weird” by the fact that you’re no longer his disciples or “weird” in his current behavior?

[The New Level nods their heads in agreement; thinking about the current state of their former leader.]

NS: Seriously, what’s he thinking nowadays?

WC: Obviously, he has a chip on his shoulder. I just hope no one ends up seriously injured or dead from it because I’m sure he’s willing to go that far.

EB: I KNOW he’ll go that far. Now that he’s drinking again, he’ll do just about anything.

NS: Should we do something about this?

WC: Well, let’s wait and see where he’s going with this “Hardcore Challenge” scenario. Until he takes it too far, let’s just agree to play the waiting game.

[All three men nod their heads. They gather up their belongings and head out the door. They walk through the parking lot until they come to Nate’s black Chevy Camero. Carl climbs into the backseat while Beavis climbs into the passenger seat. Nate tosses his bags into the back next to Carl before climbing into the driver seat. He starts the ignition and begins the drive back to his apartment. At first, nobody speaks until Beavis gets a curious look on his face. He turns to Nate as he begins speaking his mind.]

EB: So what do you think of Page’s comments at the last show?

[Nate chuckles and then responds in a sarcastic tone.]

NS: What? About how he was toying with me the whole time? About how I pulled the tights to get the win? About how nobody’s better than the “almighty Jonathan Page”?

[Beavis and Carl laugh for a moment; thinking over in their mind every ridiculous, heinous comment made by Page at Southern Dynamite #39. Carl composes himself and leans forward to say something himself.]

WC: What about that promo he did where he wants your match to only be 15 minutes?

NS: Well, good for him. If he wants me to whip his a** within that time then I’ll do it. It doesn’t matter much anyway how long the match is; he can’t tire me out and he can’t truly hurt me so time isn’t a factor. The only way he’ll take my title is if I drop dead from beating him to death.

WC: That’s what I figured.

[Nate pulls the car into the parking lot of his apartment complex. He steps out of the car but looks back in towards the New Level.]

NS: You guys just wait here. I’ll take care of my promo and then we’ll take off.

EB: Fine but don’t take all day.

[Nate grins and nods his head.]

NS: I’ll be back soon enough.

[Nate closes the door and walks up to the apartment complex. He opens the door to his apartment and enters into the kitchen area. He walks through the apartment until he comes to his bedroom; his computer sitting on a desk near the window on the other side of the room from the bed. He pushes the “on” switch and waits for the screen to light up. As he does, he slowly paces around the room; thinking about the challenge before him.]

-The RCW brass loves to throw some curve balls at me. Every match is more difficult than the last. First time, it was “just” Jonathan Page. This time, it’s Page and Alex Crowe. Next thing you know, it’ll be me facing down half the roster in a single match.-

[Nate chuckles to himself at the thought of possibly facing “competitors” such as Nathan Sanders, Lee Jackson, Willy Franklin, Frank Rogers and Mark Brantley all at once.]

-No matter; I knew what I’d have to face once I became champion. I’ll show everyone that it doesn’t matter who the referee is or who’s on the opposite side of the ring; staring at me; waiting for the chance to pounce; what matters is that I’m a better wrestler than them, I deserve to be champion more than they do and that I’m a superior man because of it. If Page doesn’t realize that already then he’ll be in for a rude awakening at the show.-

[As Nate continues his pacing and turns back towards the computer, he sees the screen is on. He approaches it and sits down on the chair in front of it. He navigates through the internet to the RCW website and to the “Media” section. He makes sure that his web cast is going out over the internet before adjusting himself in his chair, taking a deep breath and beginning his promo.]

NS: In the scientific community, there’s a theory known as “natural selection.” Those who believe in this theory believe that only the strongest will survive in this world while the meek will wither away and die. The strong are those who can not only adapt to any situation they face but prove their dominance in said situation.

[Nate gives a single chuckle; never removing his serious demeanor.]

NS: Such is the case when it comes to my next title defense at Southern Dynamite #40. Not only must I face down the same loudmouth that I faced at the last Hog Heaven event but must deal with a Benedict Arnold of a referee. Despite this, I’ll prove why I’ve never lost a one-on-one match up and why I’m still the RCW Natural Champion: I am the strong of the RCW. You talk about how you feel that this business, this business that I love and would die for, is unfair and unforgiving. That’s just it, Page; this business is a better representative of natural selection than any other business. In order to succeed in pro wrestling, you have to prove your greatness and dominance over your opponents on a constant basis. You must be prepared for every challenge that you’re faced with and destroy it once it arrives.

[Nate turns his head to the left for a moment as he contemplates his next words. He slowly turns back to his webcam as he continues.]

NS: You’ve mentioned several instances where you proved that you were superior…in other organizations and with other competitors. You talk about your weak-willed and weak-minded former allies and your ill-financed former employers and your triumphs over them. All that tells me is that you were able to find the weak and employ what intelligent and talent you have to overcome them. Not a hard feat for someone in the middle of the food chain to do over someone scraping the bottom of the barrel. In taking care of your former employers, you made the right choice…or the wrong one, depending on your point of view…when you moved up in competition by arriving in RCW. Like I’ve said before, you’ve been successful against more bottom scrapers since you arrived but were pushed back down the evolutionary ladder once you faced a real talent and rightfully so, Page. You are not the strong of RCW. You’re not championship material at this point in your career. You do not have what it takes…

[Nate lifts his left index finger into the air.]

NS: …to be number one.

[Nate takes his left hand and points it into his chest.]

NS: I’ve already proven time and again that I do have what it takes to be “the man” in RCW. Nobody has pinned my shoulders to the mat or made me submit in singles competition and the first one to do so won’t be named Jonathan Page and the event won’t be Southern Dynamite.

[Nate lowers his left hand onto his lap and brings it together with his right; interlocking his fingers together.]

NS: The truth is, Page, you were successful in your previous organizations because you could manipulate those people into believing what you believe. That is an impossibility here because the fans, despite what a “British noble” such as yourself may think of them, aren’t stupid enough to believe the ramblings of a limey; an untested, flaw-filled limey at that.

[Nate looks down at his hands as he rotates his hands over themselves. He rubs them together one last time before clasping them together again; resting his chin on them. He turns his head, quite slightly, to the side and turns his gaze back to the floor.]

NS: I used to think that you were just another run-of-the-mill, arrogant lowlifes who love to populate the wrestling landscape and RCW especially but as your comments continue, I see now that the problem goes much deeper. You’re living in a fantasy world, Page. A fantasy world where your mind bends events and actions to their will in order to save you the pain of telling the truth. From your opinion on the level of competition you’ve faced up until our first encounter to the reason you believe you lost at Hog Heaven, your mind is just being easy on you.

[Slowly, Nate shifts his head so that his eyes pierce the camera sitting atop his computer.]

NS: The sad truth, Page, is that you walked into Hog Heaven and I proved that I was the better man. You tried hitting one move and it didn’t succeed; you tried to restrain my offense and your defense proved insufficient; you tried to keep up with my stamina and you found you had nothing with which to dig down deep; you tried to kick out of the Tidal Wave and you failed in an epic way. In order to save you from the embarrassment of realization of the truth, your mind convinced you that you had simply given up the match. You say that you tried putting on a show at Hog Heaven when I proved during our match that I AM the show; the top billing; the main event of RCW. If your mind is so willing to block out the painful memories of your first defeat then I must make this second beating and its lessons truly stick.

[Nate lowers his hands and inches closer towards the webcam.]

NS: Page, at Southern Dynamite, you will have to face the fact that you’re not the cream of the crop and not as “dandy” as you claim to be. You lost your undefeated streak in RCW because you were outclassed. You will succumb to two straight losses because your foolish pride will betray you. You won’t walk out of the show with the Natural Title because it belongs to me and will remain my property for a very, very long time; not you, not Alex Crowe, not even AJ Supreme can change that. I am simply the superior athlete when it comes to the competition in RCW.

[Nate leans back in his chair as a smile develops over his face.]

NS: As for your begging for a fifteen minute time limit, I have no problem with accepting it but only if you admit your true reasons for asking for it: like I already said, you can’t keep up with me when it comes to stamina. Don’t feel bad because it happens to many men when they’re foolish enough to challenge me. Your true reason for a fifteen minute time limit is so you don’t have to worry about growing tired while I grow only stronger from the opening bell. If I’m unable to finish you off within that time period, which is a bit of a stretch because it came pretty easy to me when last we met, you’ll use that as another excuse in your endless one liners of pure bullsh*t. You’ll put yourself on another pedestal and say that I couldn’t beat you when all that really would’ve happened would be that you tucked your tail between your legs and went home; bloodied and broken but not quite beaten enough. If you wanted to deprive the fans of a compelling, competitive match, which seems to be your reason for living, then you’ll have your wish come true: I will crush you in that ring. I will beat you from one side of the ring to the other; leaving no doubt in anyone’s mind about who is the true champion and I’ll do it in under fifteen minutes…easily. At Southern Dynamite, everyone will witness natural selection first hand as I prove my existence as a natural born killer of the weak and weary by destroying Jonathan Page and remaining the RCW Natural Champion.

[Nate takes a deep breath and when he speaks again, he does so very softly.]

NS: My name is Nate Sipes…and I represent wrestling…at its purest form.

[Nate pauses for several moments; allowing for some run over footage for the TV crew to work with. Finally, he reaches up and not only turns off his webcam but his computer as well. He proceeds out of his bedroom and then his apartment as he approaches his car again; the New Level waiting impatiently. He gets in the driver seat, starts the car up again and drives out of the parking lot. As he starts down the road, Beavis turns to look at him.]

EB: So, I was messing around with my iPod and I noticed that Page posted another supposed promo today.

NS: What did he say?

EB: Nothing really. This old guy named "John," I think, tried talking to him about joining him or something like that.

NS: That’s it?

EB: That’s it, man.

[Nate just shakes his head from side-to-side; never taking his eyes off the road.]

NS: I’ll just take care of it later.

WC: Speaking of which, we were thinking of spending a night out on the town once we get into Arkansas. What do you say, Nate?

NS: I say “I’ll see you tomorrow; bring the hangover that I’m sure you guys will find.”

[Beavis and Carl laugh as a smile spreads over Nate’s face.]

WC: Come on, Nate, you can’t just spend all your time in the gym, cutting promos or beating people up in the ring. You need to get out some and have some fun.

NS: Beating people up is fun for me. Besides, if you guys worry less about getting drunk and chasing women and worry more about training and wrestling then you’d have as little problem keeping your tag belts as I do beating Johnny Page.

[Beavis and Carl look to each other; they just shrug as they realize that Nate won’t budge.]

WC: Alright but the offer’s still on the table if you ever want it.

NS: Thanks, guys. Maybe I’ll take it when I retire in about ten years.

[All three men burst out laughing as they continue their long trek to Fayetteville and Nate’s destiny as remaining RCW Natural Champion.]

[Nate Sipes/The New Level]

6/16/09
Fayetteville, AR
**************

[Inside the media area of the Boys and Girls Club, the RCW camera crew waits for their subject of the day, Nate Sipes, who will be taping an interview for Conan O’Brien’s show. Soon enough, Nate walks into the room and prepares for the live via-satellite interview.]

Camera man: Thanks for being on time, Nate.

NS: It’s no problem guys. I know how busy you’ll be today with everyone else’s promos. Besides, this is a big opportunity for both me and RCW to get some national exposure.

Camera man: You’ve got that right.

[Nate takes his seat as the crew sets up the microphone on his shirt; making sure to get the best possible audio.]

Camera man: By the way, do you know why Conan’s having you do this interview so early? I thought his show doesn’t start until late at night?

[Nate just rolls his eyes before responding.]

NS: You do realize that they tape the show during the day and then air it later on, right? They leave enough in to make it seem live. The interview I conduct now will air later tonight.

Camera man: Oh, I see. Sorry about asking a stupid question.

NS: Don’t worry about it man. We all make mistakes. I mean, just look at Jonathan Page; he constantly talks about being the best athlete in RCW and yet he can’t even beat a top caliber opponent.

[The camera man slightly chuckles as Nate continues.]

NS: Also, look at the mistake Alex Crowe made: he blindsided me at Hog Heaven and now he’s placed himself in this title match at Southern Dynamite. If he thinks his new attitude will give him a longer lease on life then he’s sadly mistaken and I’ll prove that if he gets physically involved in the match.

Camera man: Oh, I’m sure.

[The camera man’s earpiece comes alive with the voice of a producer from The Tonight Show. The camera man nods his head and then moves in front of Nate; pointing towards the camera set in front of him as well as the TV monitor to the right of it.]

Camera man: Alright, Nate, Conan will be on this screen so that you can see him while you’re talking. You’ll be able to communicate this way.

NS: Sounds like the thing to do.

Camera man: Alright, Conan will appear on the screen, do a little pre-interview speech and then you’ll be ready to go. Good luck.

NS: Thanks.

[The camera man moves around to the back of the camera as the TV monitor turns on. As it does, Conan O’Brien appears on the screen.]

Conan: Hey, Nate, are you ready to go?

NS: I was born ready.

Conan: Okay, you’re interview will air after a commercial break so I’ll do a quick intro and then the interview will get started.

[Conan gets a signal from someone off-camera; most likely the producer telling him it’s time to start.]

Conan: Okay, here we go.

[Conan pauses as the countdown from five can be heard and at “two,” the crowd cheers and the show’s music plays as the Tonight Show begins. The show’s logo appears on the screen.]

[Conan then appears on screen as the crowd’s noise dies down.]

Conan: My first guest of the evening comes from the world of professional wrestling. He has a big match coming up and it’s safe to say that he could kill me with a single blow.

[The crowd bursts into laughter as Conan give a quick, awkward look to the camera.]

Conan: Joining me live via-satellite from Fayetteville, Arkansas, the reigning RCW Natural Champion Nate Sipes!

[Nate appears on the screen as the crowd cheers. Nate smiles and nods his head in gratitude for their response.]

NS: Thanks for having me.

Conan: Now, Nate, if I remember right, we had your cousin Doug on before and he was the Natural Champion. Does that mean you beat your cousin for the title?

[Nate shakes his head “no.”]

NS: No, in fact, Doug and I just finished up a bloody war against his old friend Havoc and his crew. I won a gauntlet match against all of them and then beat Havoc for this belt.

[Nate holds the title up as the crowd responds with applause.]

NS: But, no, I didn’t have to beat Doug for the belt.

Conan: Is there a possibility we’ll see you two face off at some point?

NS: Are you trying to start something, Conan?

[The crowd laughs as Conan gives his best angry face.]

Conan: Well, yeah, because I think it would be a great match!

NS: It would be a great match but, right now, he has his own affairs to worry about and I, obviously, have my own match to handle right now.

Conan: I see. Speaking of which, this guy you’re facing, Jonathan Page, he seems pretty full of himself at times, doesn’t he?

NS: Yeah, all the time.

[The crowd laughs again at the comment.]

NS: He loves to talk a big game wherever he goes. I wouldn’t be surprised if he tells every guy he sees going down the street about who he is and why he thinks that makes him special. He just loves to build himself up, Conan, which leaves him set up for a really big fall.

Conan: Now, you beat him not too long ago, didn’t you?

NS: That’s right; I beat him at the last Hog Heaven show last month.

Conan: Hog Heaven; sounds like my night life.

[Conan laughs slightly, as does the crowd. Nate just gives a mocking smirk that quickly fades into a serious demeanor.]

NS: Why am I not surprised?

[Conan laughs a little more before his look turns to nervousness.]

Conan: I really need to quit poking the bears on this show.

[Nate’s smirk grows larger as the crowd laughs again.]

Conan: So, do you think that he really believes everything he’s saying about being this great athlete?

NS: Not at all, Conan. In fact, I truly believe that he’s this scared, little boy trying to play a big time wrestler. He puts on this act of being this great guy and yet what has he shown in the ring? He’s shown that he has no problem using short cuts, against even the most minor of competition, he has no problem considering a forfeit win over a has been as a defining career moment and he believes that beating several enhancement wrestlers and mid-card wrestlers from other organizations makes him a title contender. I mean, our bosses probably put that in his head as well but he was stupid enough to believe it. These “great victories” that he’s had in RCW are a sham and are simply a way for him to feed his overgrown ego. He isn’t a championship-level wrestler and I’ve proven that.

Conan: I’ve heard that an old friend or mentor or whatever of his has been talking about him going back to a different group. Do you think he’d do something like that?

[Nate raises his eyes to the sky; thinking about his response. He shrugs his shoulders as he looks back to the camera.]

NS: I wouldn’t be surprised if he did after Southern Dynamite. I mean, what’s the point in staying in the cream of the crop of wrestling organizations and getting you’re a** kicked on a daily basis when he could go back to some two-bit operation and be their top star just because he knows the owner? Think about it, Conan: I’ve already beaten him once and I’ll, easily, do so again at Southern Dynamite. I will have proven that he’ll never defeat me to take my title. There’s no way he’d be taken seriously as a contender for the Southern Heritage Title because it’s considered a more prestigious title in the eyes of RCW brass. Of course, just because that’s their opinion doesn’t mean it’s my opinion or the opinion of the fans. If you want to see the best technically sound wrestler then look no further than Nate Sipes.

[The crowd cheers Nate as he nods his head in thanks.]

NS: As for our tag titles, I doubt he could pay somebody enough to be his partner. He’s a loudmouth moron who treats people like scum for no real reason other than it makes him feel big. So, like I said, what’s the point in him staying in RCW once I beat him again? He can’t climb up the ladder and no one will ever take him seriously in this organization again. He’ll become nothing but a gate keeper for the other young stars who are moving their way up to a championship match. I doubt his ego would allow him to keep up such a position for very long. That’s why I truly believe that he may leave after I beat him again because he needs some semblance of success in order to survive and when he doesn’t win the title at Southern Dynamite, his career will have died in RCW.

[The crowd lets out an “OOOOOH!” as Conan’s eyes grow wide. Nate just chuckles as Conan holds the pose for several moments.]

Conan: I sure hope you can back that up, Nate.

NS: For anyone who doubts me, just look at my track record in RCW so far and look at the result from my last encounter with Page. You’ll see that, unlike Johnny boy, I can back up my claims.

Conan: Well, there is one monkey wrench thrown into this match if I’m not mistaken and that’s a special referee in Alex Crowe. He was once your friend when you were fighting Havoc, I believe, but then he attacked you at the Hog Heaven show.

[The crowd lets out another “OOOOOOOH!”]

Conan: I know!

[The crowd’s noise turns to laughter again.]

Conan: So, tell us, Nate, just what will the match be like with such a hostile guy like Crowe as the referee?

[Nate nods his head in agreement before responding.]

NS: At first, I wondered what the thinking process was of the RCW ownership when they made this decision but then I came to a realization: Alex Crowe, despite his personal feelings towards me isn’t about to cost me the match. I mean, ever since he returned, he’s been preaching this “don’t trust anybody” philosophy and has proven as much. I had made some comments before the first Johnny Page match about how Crowe doesn’t have it anymore and then he attacked me. I still stand by the comments I made about him and that won’t change until he can defeat me. That brings me back to this match as I think that Crowe is more likely to cost Page the match than me. I mean, Crowe has had his share of brain injuries but he’s not entirely without brain power. He remembers, quite vividly, what I said and wants to prove me wrong. He doesn’t want to see some other guy, some annoying Briton end up with the title and beat his nemesis to get it; Alex wants to do it himself. Alex is very driven at this point in time to get another shot at me and my title. He wants to defeat me and take my title because both he and I know that this would be the ultimate vindication of him as a wrestler and as a man. So, like I said, it isn’t I who should be worried about Alex Crowe’s officiating; it’s Page who should be looking over his shoulder if and when Alex Crowe strikes because that annoying Brit will be the target. Not that I need the help of Alex Crowe in dispatching of Johnny Page but if he feels the need to be partial, one way or another, and break the trust that the RCW owners have in him then so be it. I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it. The point is that no matter what’s going through Alex’s head and no matter what Page may think he brings to this match talent-wise, this match is already a foregone conclusion. I will walk in as the champion and walk out as champion.

[Nate picks up the Natural Title belt from the bag at his side; setting it on his left shoulder. He smacks it a bit to the approving applause of the crowd.]

NS: This belt belongs to me and will remain in my possession until RCW can find someone better to fill my shoes.

Conan: Turning away from the wrestling ring, Nate, what do you do when you’re not killing someone?

[The crowd laughs.]

NS: Train for my next victim.

[The crowd laughs even harder.]

Conan: Don’t you have a significant other or something like that?

[Conan, being coy, puts his index finger to his lips and flutters his eyes to the hysterical laughter of the crowd. Nate just laughs and shakes his head “no.”]

NS: Sorry, Conan, but you’re not my type.

[The crowd lets out an “AWWWWWWW!” as Conan hangs his head. He pounds the desk with his fist as he continues.]

Conan: D*MN IT! Oh well, maybe next time. Ladies and gentlemen, Southern Dynamite #40 happens tomorrow night at the Fayetteville Boys and Girls Club where Nate Sipes will defend his title in the main event. This show has an eight o’clock bell time so go see it. Thank you for joining us, Nate. Nate Sipes, ladies and gentlemen!

[The crowd cheers some more as Nate smiles and waves his hand in gratitude. The Tonight Show’s music plays as the segment ends. The TV monitor fades out as Nate removes his microphone. He puts his title belt back in the bag and zips it up as he stands up. The camera man moves over to him and shakes his hand.]

Camera man: Good luck, Nate. I’ll see you at the show then.

NS: Thanks, man. See you later.

[Nate walks out the door and through the Boys and Girls Club until he comes to the exit. He walks through the empty parking lot and over to his Camero where two familiar faces are waiting for him. Carl and Beavis are leaning against his car as he approaches it.]

NS: Hey guys, what are you two doing here?

WC: We came to ask you one more time to come out with us.

EB: Yeah, man, you really need a break for a night. You’ve been really pushing yourself lately.

[Nate just shakes his head in disagreement.]

NS: I already told you guys, I’m just not into this whole “night life” thing.

EB: Just come out for one drink, Nate. Just ONE drink.

[Nate sighs and lowers his head in thought for a moment. He raises his head and reluctantly nods it in agreement.]

NS: Alright, ONE drink but I’m not staying out all night.

WC: That’s fine, man. Let’s get ready then.

NS: Isn’t it a little early to be partying?

EB: Yeah but we’re all set now and besides…we don’t have a ride right now. We spent our spending money on a cab ride over here.

WC: Can we just hang out at your place till tonight?

[Nate rolls his eyes before opening the back door and throwing his bag onto the back seat.]

NS: Get in.

[The New Level high fives each other as they climb into the car. Nate climbs into the driver seat and they quickly make their way out of the parking lot.]

Later that night…

[As the sun goes down, so do the shots of Tequila into the mouths of Carl and Beavis. Their inebriated state starts to bother Nate; a bottle of Coors Light in his right hand. He thinks about the influence HJ’s drinking problem has had on these two young men and how it may effect them some day. Carl looks over at Nate, saunters over and pats him on the shoulder.]

WC: You see, Nate, one drink isn’t going to kill you.

NS: Yeah, but one more may kill you.

[Carl nearly falls down laughing as he walks back over to his partner and they continue their debauchery. Nate looks over across the bar and notices a beautiful woman staring back at him; her lovely smile hiding behind the hunger in her dark brown eyes. Nate looks back at his beer and smiles. She breathes deeply before walking over to Nate in her tight, white dress; her black hair swaying across her back as she walks. She walks until she’s right next to him and Nate looks up at her; a delightedly surprised look on his face.]

?: Hi there. I’m Maya.

NS: Nate Sipes. Nice to meet you.

Maya: Nice to meet you, Nate. Do you mind if I sit down?

NS: Please.

[Nate waves his hand at the empty chair next to him and she quickly takes it. As she does, Nate can’t help but stare at her silky, tanned legs as she crosses them.]

Maya: You’re the wrestling champion around here, right?

NS: RCW Natural Champion; that’s right.

Maya: I saw you beat Havoc for the title a few months ago. I was really impressed.

NS: Thank you.

Maya: So, do you come here often?

NS: No, not really. My friends, though, said I needed to get out more often.

[Maya laughs, politely; her eyes never leaving Nate’s.]

Maya: So, who’s your next big opponent?

NS: I wouldn’t consider him “big” but it’s Johnny Page. I beat him once already and I’m going to do it again tomorrow night.

Maya: Well, congratulations then.

NS: Thank you, Maya.

[Maya finishes the drink in her hand before setting it back down on the bar and looking back to Nate.]

Maya: Do you want to get out of here and go back to my place?

[Nate’s eyebrows rise at the thought of what could be in his immediate future.]

NS: I’d love to but, like I said, I have a big day tomorrow.

Maya: Don’t worry, I won’t keep you up too late. Come on, let’s get out of here.

[Nate smiles again as he finishes off his beer. He nods his head as he goes to stand up.]

NS: Let’s go then. I just have to say good bye to my friends.

[Maya stands up as Nate puts his arm around her. They walk over to Carl and Beavis who are still drinking more and more.]

NS: Hey guys, you’ll have to call a cab home.

[The two men smile coyly at Nate as they raise their glasses to him.]

EB: Okay, Nate.

WC: Have fun.

[Nate just shakes his head as he and Maya walk out the door. Beavis and Carl slap high fives as they down their drinks.]

WC: I knew he’d have fun.

EB: Yeah, man. With his looks, it was a matter of time before a chick got him.

[The New Level slams their glasses down on the bar as the bartender pours them another shot.]