JERRY LAWLER
…aaaaand there it is! Sami Zayn finally connects with the Helluva Kick!
JIM ROSS
It’s over! Sami Zayn defeats The Rock!
JERRY LAWLER
Another performance like that on Sunday JR, and we could have a new Intercontinental Champion!
Sami Zayn slowly got on to his feet after the cover as the referee raised his arm in victory. “World’s Apart” blasted the PA system as Sami released his arm from the referee and ran over to the top turnbuckle and raised his arms in the air, screaming in joy at his massive victory over The Great One and it was clear by his reaction that not only had the victory meant a lot to him, but he was more than ready for WrestleMania. Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler had signed off for the night as the final Warfare before WrestleMania came to a close, but the fans were still packed inside the Allstate Arena as Sami Zayn was still inside of the ring, celebrating on the top turnbuckle and pointing at the huge WrestleMania sign which ignited the loud ‘Ole!’ chants from the wild Chicago crowd. He embraced them as he laughed and jumped off the turnbuckle and walked around the ring, applauding the crowd for their support throughout the evening from all of the EBWF personnel who competed in front of them. With the crowd slowly leaving, Sami noticed that the crowd were still sticking around, trying to stay for as long as possible and there was no chance of them leaving with a superstar still in the ring. With some of the staff starting to work around the stage packing up the equipment, Sami still found time to leave the ring and grab a microphone to talk to the fans who stuck around and he finally managed to calm them down whilst laughing so he could speak.
SAMI ZAYN
Come on guys, we don’t have much time left before they start packing up this ring as well. You know I love that chant and all of you Zayniacs but now we have one heck of a busy week ahead of us, not just me, all of us. I’m pretty sure you all know by now that I’ve finally got my WrestleMania match, just to remind you – I’m going to defeat Trent and Lance Storm next Sunday to win back my Intercontinental Championship!
The fans cheered as Sami teased the fans with his big match, and he knew that without the fans genuine support he wouldn’t have been in that situation and there was no gimmick about it, he was thankful for the opportunities and clearly emotional at reaching his first WrestleMania, a huge milestone in his career.
SAMI ZAYN
It’s not going to be easy, but it’s certainly do-able and I’m going to give it my all so that the next time I’m in the Allstate Arena in front of you guys, I have MY championship gold in MY hands! This is for us, every single one of us, my first WrestleMania here in the EBWF and now more than ever I need the Zayniacs, you know I love those chants and this week we’re going to need them more than ever before! While I’m busy training, putting together the game plan, fulfilling all of the media obligations and everything else that comes with it, I’m giving you guys something to do as well. There’s no sitting around this week, no way, not WrestleMania week. I know most of you will be travelling to San Jose but this week I need you all to show your support one way another, you can Tweet me or stop me in the middle of the street or go online and do whatever it is you guys do because come next Sunday inside of the Levi’s Stadium, right after I hit the Helluva Kick on Trent, right after I hit the Helluva Kick on Lance Storm, as soon as that bell rings I want every single one of you to stand up and chant the only way YOU can! Goodnight, Chicago!
Sami threw the microphone over his shoulder as the remainder of the fans erupted in a ferocious ‘Ole!’ chant as he left the ring and went to sign some autographs and take pictures at the front of the barricade as security tried to escort the remainder of the fans out of the arena. He finally walked away from the fans and kept the big smile on his face as he wiped away the sweat from his forehead and quickly jogged up the ramp to get backstage and catch a quick shower before a hectic week begins. He walked through the backstage arena as the EBWF staff were starting their work to call it a night and pack up the equipment, but right now Sami wasn’t done as he had to meet Todd Grisham; someone he had never met before for an EBWF.net exclusive which the fans could view not long after. After turning a few corners he finally jogged towards Todd who was waiting for him, growing a friendly smile and reaching his hand out for a handshake.
TODD GRISHAM
Hi Rami, nice to finally meet you.
SAMI ZAYN
Hey man, nice to meet you too, this makes a chance it’s usually Renee or Michael getting angry that I’m running late.
TODD GRISHAM
Yeah, being WrestleMania week things do get a little hectic backstage so everyone is doing different things, you’ll get used to it being your first WrestleMania and all. Right then…nothing special I guess just the match with Dwayne based on my notes.
SAMI ZAYN
No problem, let’s do it.
Todd waited for a moment as the producer was giving him instructions through his earpiece as he nodded his head to explain he understood and seconds later the cameras started rolling for the two.
TODD GRISHAM
Ladies and gentlemen, joining me at this time for this exclusive EBWF.net content…Sami Zayn. Sami, thanks for joining me. Well, there we have it, final stop before WrestleMania, final match before the title match and what a big win, has it sunk in yet? You’ve just defeated The Rock!
SAMI ZAYN
It still feels surreal right now, to step inside the ring with The Great One is an achievement in itself but to pick up the win, that’s….that’s special but I knew I could do it. Not for one second did I step in thinking he’s too good for me. And it’s a big win heading into WrestleMania, the momentum was key and now I’m more confident than ever of reclaiming my championship.
TODD GRISHAM
Well it certainly was an impressive performance, do you think Trent and Lance Storm might start to take you a little bit seriously now?
SAMI ZAYN
You know what…I hope they don’t. I hope they’re just as over confident and smug as ever, because I’d love nothing more than to kick the smirks right off of their faces, THAT will be the most satisfying thing for me at Levi’s Stadium.
TODD GRISHAM
Before you leave Sami…we’re just hearing now that you have been nominated for two Slammy Awards this year, the face of the year and the newcomer of the year; surely that will top off a great first year for you in the EBWF?
Sami looked genuinely surprised, having not heard the news until now but was certainly glad he was nominated which meant he would be attending the ceremony the night before WrestleMania.
SAMI ZAYN
That’s the first I’m hearing of it but it’s nice to know your work is getting noticed and appreciated, I don’t do it for Slammy Awards but only a fool would say he’s not happy, it has been a good year for me I’ll admit and I’ve loved it here, winning a Slammy would be great but kicking Trent and Storm’s ass at WrestleMania the following night will be even better, thanks Todd.
Sami rushed off the set, concluding the EBWF.net exclusive as he scurried towards his locker room, happy with the night in general with his win over The Rock but the news of being nominated for two Slammy Awards made his night even better. He walked into his locker room and sat down on a chair, instantly getting out his phone and checking through his e-mails, looking for one particular e-mail; his schedule for the remainder of the week. His EBWF commitments meant he had to attend the Access events with a couple of other EBWF superstars and divas and he had his own personal interviews as well as plenty of outlets were looking to catch a word with him.
- - - - - - -
Tuesday March 31st 2015 – EBWF Headquarters – Media Department
It was a busy day for Sami Zayn, whilst the majority of the EBWF roster were on the way or reaching San Jose, California; he was still at the headquarters to film his hype promo for the Intercontinental Championship match which would air just before his match at WrestleMania. Right after filming, he would need to reach the airport to catch his flight to San Jose and check into the Marriot hotel and begin the media duties planned for the remainder of the week. He was in the media department where the shooting would take place, they already had the suitable clips they needed which had been pulled from the archives, dating to the day Sami Zayn arrived in the EBWF, right up until him talking in this video. The video would be shown in chronological order, highlighting the majority of his milestones and memorable moments in the EBWF leading up to his first WrestleMania, which was clearly a special moment for him and he was more than happy to be receiving this kind of attention.
PRODUCER
Okay Rami, we’re pretty much ready, we have the clips, make-up is done, we have the music as well…let’s see here…right we just need you to play the guy you play on screen, the happy-go-lucky Sami Zayn, always pleases the fans, always motivated to do better, motivated to get the title back, talk about the journey, how you’re feeling, what you’re bringing to WrestleMania and the videos we’re using will be in front of you so whatever you feel is necessary to talk about, go for it and we can edit the rest in later, sound good?
SAMI ZAYN
Sounds good to me, let’s do this.
He adjusted himself in his seat, looking at the screen in front of him which wasn’t visible on the camera, a slower rendition of Voices by Sahaj Ticotin was being used as the background music to give it a better feel as a whole and we saw the moment Sami Zayn arrived in the EBWF talking to Renee Young and how excited he was to be in the company before talking about it in front of the camera.
SAMI ZAYN
That itself, was a huge milestone in my life. I’ve been fortunate enough to wrestle in a number of countries, a number of companies ranging from Ring of Honor to the WWE in it’s NXT division and then the EBWF came knocking and it’s not something you turn down, to finally reach a company of this stature just showed my fans that I’ve done it right, and I’m being rewarded for all of the hard work and sacrifices I’ve put in.
The clips continued to show, dating back to his first match and his loss to Dave Batista, his close matches with the likes of Justin Gabriel, Ted DiBiase. The moment he was crowned the number one contender for the Intercontinental Championship and how he fell short to Syxx in his bid to become champion. The clips then focused on how Sami fought back to that same level after a few more wins, another tough win over DiBiase and this time, defeating Syxx to become Intercontinental Champion. How that victory led to bigger and better things, teaming with CM Punk, Sting, Dean Ambrose amongst others at Survivor Series, concluding with a huge championship defence against Dolph Ziggler. All of which he talked about whilst they were being shown.
SAMI ZAYN
It’s certainly been…a rollercoaster ride here in the EBWF. My first match I was thrown in the deep end, just how I like it, against Batista and I lost. I thought, ‘oh no, here we go again, one loss and it’s all over, people will forget who you are and you’ll be stuck in the middle of the pack and eventually the hierarchy will have enough and you’ll be future endeavoured’, but thankfully that wasn’t the case. I had a number of tough matches since then, I had some great matches back and forth with Justin, I lost some and I won some, the same goes for Ted, two of the best talents, underappreciated stars we have and the matches were great and y’know I think those wins and those guys helped me to get where I am right now, those wins, those performances got me a championship match against Syxx at Destiny. I was so confident, so sure about myself that it was my time, it was all about me…and I lost. In typical Sami Zayn fashion. The nearly-man, the choker, just some of the names that have followed me everywhere and I only had myself to blame this time, I did it again, at the final hurdle I couldn’t do it and once again those thoughts creep in, just not good enough, maybe it just wasn’t meant to be. But for me…I don’t think that was acceptable, not after everything that was said and my performances and obviously I lose a few matches here and there to Dolph, Stardust and so on, but I fought back again, I became the number one contender again, I was confident again but this time at Fanniversary…I did it. I became the Intercontinental Champion. That moment, that feeling of holding one of the most prestigious champions and being known as the champion was…it’s not even explainable. I can’t put it into words, it was one of the greatest days in my wrestling career so far. And that opened new avenues, Sami Zayn became a household name, people wanted to talk to me, they helped me around, the media were all over me and this transitioned in the company as well, I had CM Punk approach me to team with him at Survivor Series, and although we lost I can still be proud at that achievement. And again, the big matches came, I even beat Dolph Ziggler who went on to win the Royal Rumble and we put on a great match, and just when I close to heading into WrestleMania with my title intact…I lost.
The music then stopped and the videos then showed Trent defeating Sami Zayn for his title with the colours changing to black and white, showing the antics of Trent and Lance Storm which was a great way to show them off as the heels everyone hates. The clips also showed the brutal attack from Trent, Jericho and Storm where Sami was scheduled to face Lance Storm but was locked in a double Canadian Mapleleaf, the first of its kind. This kicked off bak and forth attacks, Sami helped Dean Ambrose fend off the trio as they continued to make a mockery of the championship and what it means. The clips then showed Sami interrupt the contract signing segment, hitting Trent with the Helluva Kick and signing the contract to make the WrestleMania match a triple threat contest, before concluding with clips over his big victories against the World Champion AJ Styles and most recently, The Rock.
SAMI ZAYN
That one really got to me, I’ve lost a lot of matches but that one really stung and it still stings me today, that Trent – a former World Champion – stooped that low to try getting me out of the picture. Well if I’m being honest I wasn’t really surprised by Trent, his head is full of ideas thanks to those around him such as Lance Storm, but Chris Jericho laying his hands on me was a step too far, that moment there told me that I needed to get that title back because if it wasn’t me, it wouldn’t be anyone. Now I know, people might think that I stooped to their level by barging my way into the title match at WrestleMania, but it had to be done. The pain I felt when Trent took that title from me, the pain I felt with the cheap shots, the double Canadian Mapleleaf, they finally took their toll and I snapped, I had to do something and I did it. I hit him with the steel chair and signed that contract and it’s the very reason I’m sat here right now telling everyone that at WrestleMania, I will be the new Intercontinental Champion. That ignited a fire inside me, to get what I want and I think everyone saw that when I pinned both AJ Styles; the World Champion and The Rock, fair and square in the middle of the ring. It’s been long enough, they’ve ruined the reputation of that title for far too long, this Sunday I’m taking back what’s mine and I’m kicking Trent’s ass and I’m kicking Lance Storm’s ass in front of a sell-out Levi’s Stadium in San Jose, it’s going to be…it’s going to be a great night.
The video finished with Sami Zayn’s theme music playing over a montage of him showing his passion inside the ring, concluding with Sami holding the Intercontinental Championship high in the air after defeating Syxx last year.
PRODUCER
And…cut. That was great, man. We’ll start piecing that together now, we’ll e-mail you a copy this Friday but it’ll be shown live before your match on Sunday. Your cab is outside now so grab your things and go catch your flight, you’re already running late.
He unclipped his microphone and picked up the belongings he had with him and raced to the cab in order to get to the airport on time and catch his flight to San Jose and avoid the consequences of potentially missing out on any interviews.
- - - - - - -
Wednesday April 1st 2015 – Marriot San Jose – San Jose; California
Sami Zayn had checked into the hotel a little earlier that day, staying in the Marriot San Jose along with many of the other EBWF roster whilst the big-time superstars and champions were staying a few blocks down so it did come as a slight surprise to Sami that fans and press were gathering near the entrance creating a large-ish crowd. He wasn’t going to stay in his room all day though, the chance to explore San Jose was welcomed and regardless of the crowd gathering it was something he enjoyed and wanted to stop to talk to them after they took time out to try and meet the superstars. After emerging from the elevator he made his way out of the doors and some cameras did start flashing but it was nothing that would make the public wander what all the commotion was about. As per usual, the ‘Ole!’ chants had followed him wherever he went as he proceeded to sign autographs and take pictures with the fans before people started to informally throw questions his way.
REPORTER #1
Hey Sami! What’s it feel like to be at your first WrestleMania?
He continued to sign autographs and take pictures and tried to answer the questions as best he could without gathering a big crowd before he left to see the city with some friends and members of the roster.
SAMI ZAYN
It’s great, man. I’m having fun and the week should only get better.
FAN #1
You booked to win on Sunday, Sami?
SAMI ZAYN
Ha-ha, I’ll give it my best shot guys you know it won’t be easy.
REPORTER #2
Any big plans for you after ‘Mania? IC title run? World Title picture? Heel turn? Big push as a face?
SAMI ZAYN
I genuinely don’t know guys, I hope I can get the title, that’s why I’m here to beat Trent and Lance, after that we’ll see what happens. I mean in terms of storylines and stuff we’re at a standstill because I’m going to be leaving the company and heading over to Japan so it’d be nice to leave the EBWF on a high note.
The fans were surprised to hear Sami say all of that as he tried to hold in his laughter.
SAMI ZAYN
Ah come on guys, lighten up, I thought you all loved April Fools! I’m not going anywhere, the only place I’m going is Levi’s Stadium to go get my championship back.
REPORTER #2
So there’s zero chance of Sami Zayn ever turning his back on the fans?
SAMI ZAYN
…I don’t really know how to answer that, to some being a bad guy comes natural and to others it doesn’t, I’m quite happy with where I am right now so I don’t think a change is really needed right now, do you?
FAN #2
Where are the rest of the guys?
SAMI ZAYN
Depends who you are looking for, if you’re looking for your Ambrose’s, Barrett’s and Dibiase’s and Punk’s we’re all either right here or exploring, if you’re looking for your Cena’s and Ikeda’s and Ziggler’s they’re all a few blocks down that way if you want to go and pester them too. I heard Lance and Trent were given a junior suite also so you might want to ask how they’re enjoying their nights locked in a room together, all alone, with nobody to watch what they’re up to.
REPORTER #3
Sami what are the plans for the rest of the week? Where can we find you and everyone else?
SAMI ZAYN
Me…I’ve got an interview tomorrow on the radio, and a few of the other guys and girls are either on TV or doing interviews as well to promote WrestleMania, then I have Access where you guys will be I’m guessing, a few more interviews, interaction with the fans and then on Sunday we have the big event itself.
He smiled at them as he took a few more photos and was forced to leave them behind as he apologised for not being able to stick around for as long as they wanted. He then left with everyone else to around San Jose to see what the Bay Area has to offer in terms of sights and the food.
- - - - - - -
Thursday April 2nd 2015 – KGMZ Radio – San Francisco; California
The busy week continued for Sami Zayn, he hadn’t been booked for an interview through the EBWF instead KGMZ Radio of San Francisco had reached out to him earlier in the week as he was one of the few superstars who had very little on that particular day. He made the 50-something minute journey to the studio and was given a warm welcome by the presenters as he made himself at home and was waiting for his cue to speak, promoting his match and WrestleMania which was only a matter of days away.
CHAD
Okay guys as you know the EBWF have taken over the Bay Area this week as WrestleMania is taking place at the Levi’s Stadium THIS Sunday, and we have one of the superstars with us here today for a while, Sami Zayn who is in action competing for the Intercontinental Championship against the champion Trent and…Lance Storm, Sami thanks for joining us today!
SAMI ZAYN
It’s great to be here, having a great time in the Bay Area; treating us well.
CHAD
Now WrestleMania is definitely going to be one of the biggest yet, how are you feeling heading into your first?
SAMI ZAYN
I feel great, it’s my first but it feels like I’ve been here forever and I’m in a huge, huge match as well so I can’t complain right now, life is good.
CHAD
That’s great, well we don’t have you here for too long I believe so we won’t stretch it out longer than we need to; for the fans who haven’t really paid attention to the business and only tune into WrestleMania, what do we need to know about THIS match in particular.
SAMI ZAYN
Well the evening as a whole is going to be incredible, so many great matches on show and all of them mean something so I’d recommend fans to definitely tune in regardless of which match you’re looking to but my match…I don’t really think there’s any point in giving a spoiler alert because the fact is I’m walking in as the underdog, the number one contender to the Intercontinental Championship and I’m leaving Levi’s Stadium as the new Intercontinental Champion. It’s that simple, and what better occasion to do it at than the grandest stage of them all?
CHAD
I see, well what can you tell everyone about Trent and Lance Storm? A triple threat match but the situation could be a little different than usual triple threat matches?
SAMI ZAYN
That’s right, usually you’d head into a triple threat match with the champion at a disadvantage with two guys gunning for the championship title, but this isn’t the case, the champion, Trent has an advantage, because he has something I don’t and that’s back up, Lance Storm and he’s in the match as well so there won’t be a moments rest for me, I won’t be able to catch a breather on the outside and hope that Trent and Lance rip each other to shreds and leave me with the slightest of opportunities to capitalise, that won’t happen. They’ll do whatever it takes to defeat me again, but this time they can’t attack me from behind, it’s all face to face and now we’ll see who the real champion is.
CHAD
He’s defeated you before, what makes you confident you can turn things around this time?
SAMI ZAYN
Well this time I’m in the form of my life, I’ve picked up win after win and I’m ready for whatever the two have to throw my way, whether it’s a vicious 2-on-1 attack or whether they decide to bring in the weapons and break me down like they’ve done time and time again, but at the end of the day when the fireworks are going off at the stadium, Sami Zayn will be the new Intercontinental Champion.
CHAD
Well we know you have a very busy week so we’ll leave it at there and we’ll see you on Sunday where you will potentially be crowned the new Intercontinental Champion, good luck for Sunday.
The short interview had concluded to he could travel back to San Jose and back to the SAP Centre, where the studios at the arena were available for the EBWF superstars and divas to use, and Sami Zayn had to get there and get changed to film a promo sit-down interview with Renee Young which would go out during the week.
After he reached San Jose, he didn’t have a lot of time to get ready, changing into his usual ‘Sami Zayn’ attire of a pair of jeans, flat cap and a t-shirt reflecting his real-life persona, he made his way to the SAP Centre where went through some of the papers, lines he needed to know before sitting through the interview and it had to be finished that day with Access taking place the next day and it was a busy day from morning until evening. After discussing some details with Renee Young, the cameras started rolling and in front of the black sheets and monitors, the interview started.
RENEE YOUNG
Ladies and gentlemen, with WrestleMania only a matter of away, my guest at this time is Sami Zayn. Sami, thank you for taking the time out of your preparation to join me.
SAMI ZAYN
It’s fine Renee, there’s a couple things I need to get off of my chest as well, thanks for having me.
RENEE YOUNG
Well Sami…you made it. After losing the Intercontinental Championship to Trent at Fallout, you promised your fans and the rest of the EBWF Universe you will somehow make it to WrestleMania, and here you are just days away from your WrestleMania match, not only that but it’s technically a rematch for the title you lost, what’s going through your mind right now?
SAMI ZAYN
It’s surreal, it’s started to sink in now that I’m actually here and to some people that’s stupid but for me, this is my life. I work my ass of 365 days a year to compete at events like this so to be there in front of almost 80,000 fans cheering my name is going to be a night I will never, ever forget. As for the title, well yeah that’s a rematch for the championship I lost and I’ll admit, at Fallout I lose that championship fair and square and I wasn’t at my best and I paid the price for that, not anymore. The underhanded tactics, the cheap shots, the petty acts of staining that title, it’s all coming to an end this Sunday. I’m more focused that ever, more determined and more confident of kicking their asses.
RENEE YOUNG
Well not long ago we saw the contract signing for the Intercontinental Championship match, we all thought that Trent and Lance Storm would continue making a mockery out of the title and what it stood for, why out of everyone did you choose to step up and put an end to it all?
SAMI ZAYN
Because I’ve felt the brunt of their tactics, Renee. I know there are plenty of hungry guys at the back, but after being in the ring with them and what they’ve done to me and my championship I knew I had to be the quickest out there. I was the quickest out there on Monday and I’ll be the quickest on Sunday to get back my gold. If it wasn’t me, it would have been somebody else and you wouldn’t be sat with me right now and I’d be forced to watch WrestleMania on television, I couldn’t let these two be the reason for that, I won’t let them win again.
RENEE YOUNG
Well, based on that contract signing which arguably went wrong for Trent and Lance Storm, people are even questioning your sanity, these are two people who won’t turn on one another and if anything, this is a handicap match as long as one of the two keep hold of the championship.
SAMI ZAYN
You’re right, I’m insane for doing what I did but guess what Renee? It worked, you could see they were shaken, not because I’m a monster who will steamroll through them, not because I’ve gotten in their heads but because they know Trent’s days as the so-called champion are numbered and we all saw that when they ran as quick as they could from the ring and I signed on that contract to get where I am and I’d do it again if that chance came around. I know full and well that this isn’t a triple threat match, that’s just something the company puts on the paper to make it seem like a fair match, but we all know this isn’t a triple threat match, this is a 2-on-1 handicap match and who knows; if Chris Jericho wasn’t busy with Solomon Crowe then it could have been 3-on-1 but I won’t complain because I knew all of this before I ran down to the ring and signed on the dotted line. Fair or unfair, there’s no way I’m letting Trent retain that championship, it’s coming home with me.
RENEE YOUNG
So by saying that you believe that the winner will come down to you; becoming the new champion, or Trent retaining the gold? Lance Storm is out of the picture?
SAMI ZAYN
Not necessarily, I was thinking about it myself to be honest and at first I thought that too. I thought Lance would allow myself and Trent to fight, and any time Trent is on the back foot he would step in and make sure that I can’t gain any momentum and make sure Trent is in full control again, and he can do that because he’s a competitor in the match too so there’s a chance that I might not even get any offence in. But then it hit me, why is Lance Storm successful? Why is Trent successful? Because they’re sneaky, they do what they need to do to win and try to be the best they can be. Lance Storm is as sneaky and as petty as they come, I think Lance Storm might let me kick Trent’s ass and he won’t do a thing, he might even let Trent kick my ass and help him in doing so but the Lance Storm we all know, do we really thing when I am down and out, when Trent is down and out, will he really help Trent up and tell him to pin me? Or will Lance Storm kick Trent out of the ring and snatch that win himself? Now I don’t know what kind of plans they come up with, but I think I’m right when I saw Lance Storm is a snake, who would sell his own should to get what he wants, does he really believe Trent is the future of this business? I don’t think so, especially since he’s seen what I am capable of and he’ll see it all over again when my boot hits his face.
RENEE YOUNG
Don’t you think there’s a chance they know all of this? They’ve been through it all? I mean they may even try to get you out of the match for three seconds so Lance Storm can lay down for the three count?
SAMI ZAYN
Look, I know why you’re saying all of this because of the…history you all have and if you’re still scared of them there’s nothing I can do about that right now, they’re playground bullies and the bullying stops this Sunday. I’m not afraid, nobody else needs to be afraid either. They can try any dirty trick in the book they want, you can bet I’ll be standing in the way of each one and making sure this match is called right down the middle up until Sami Zayn becomes the new Intercontinental Champion, plain and simple.
The screen faded to black as the interview came to a close which signalled the end of the media duties for the day, but he had another early start the next day with a workout and then the full day of Access the following day which he was looking forward to, that would be his final stop before the big event itself on Sunday.
- - - - - - -
Friday April 3rd 2015 – EBWF Access – San Jose Convention Center – San Jose; California
Access started earlier on in the day with plenty of EBWF superstars and divas around for the fans to meet, as expected with WrestleMania the company went all out with video game competitions, superstores with all of the top merchandise, a ring set-up for some matches that would take place especially for the Access fans who turned up from all over the globe to be there and at WrestleMania in just two days. The first set of signing had already taken place and as it hit 2PM, the second set of stars and divas made their way to the stages as they took their seats to sign autographs and take pictures with the fans. Sami was joined by the likes of Dean Ambrose, AJ Lee, Paige and Bad News Barrett and the three hour event ran smoothly with plenty of photos being taken in a great meet and greet session with the fans. Towards the conclusion the attention was turned towards the ring set up in the middle as Todd Grisham was hosting the event and made sure the fans knew what was going on.
TODD GRISHAM
Ladies and gentlemen thank you all for turning up on this beautiful day at EBWF Access just days away from WrestleMania, we’ve already had some superstars and divas talk to you inside of this ring and that will continue late into the evening but now, please give a warm welcome to former Intercontinental Champion…Sami Zayn everybody!
“World’s Apart” hit the stereo system and from the curtains set up, Sami Zayn emerged and made his short walk to the ring, he high-fived some of the kids in attendance before getting inside of the ring and shaking Todd’s hand and waving to the energetic crowd who didn’t stop with the ‘Ole!’ chants as he scouted the fans who turned up to the meet and greet.
SAMI ZAYN
Sounds like you’re all having fun out here, am I right?
The fans responded back with plenty of cheers as he laughed with Todd, knowing he had an energetic crowd with him.
TODD GRISHAM
Thanks for joining us Sami, so tell us your first WrestleMania Access, has it lived up to expectations?
SAMI ZAYN
Oh man, it’s exceeded all of the expectations I had, it’s a surprise. I’m wondering whether Trent gained this much attention as the champion earlier, or does Lance Storm even attend events like this but it’s great to be here and great that we’re separated because WrestleMania might have come early in this very ring.
TODD GRISHAM
Well we’ll save that one for Sunday as it’s set to be a great encounter, but walking around and talking to the fans earlier on this afternoon while you were meeting them and taking photos, signing shirts and photos and titles, there were some burning questions that tended to pop up more than others, one of those is how you can deal with the numbers game, considering Lance and Trent are practically a team.
SAMI ZAYN
It’s an interesting situation that’s for sure, look I’ve discussed this already, it’s practically a handicap match which I’m prepared for, I’ve done everything right and I know the right game plan heading into Sunday. This is bigger than Trent and Lance, this is for the championship but at the same time I want Lance and Trent to feel the same pain I felt, in fact I want it to stretch out to Chris Jericho as well because he’s played a big part in all of this as well, we all know Trent is their lovechild slash project and the only way to break them down is to break Trent down, I do that and take my title then their time will come as well.
TODD GRISHAM
Another topic the fans were talking about, mainly the Trent fans; dating back to your last encounter with him, he brought forward some…creepy children; what can you tell us about that?
SAMI ZAYN
Oh I remember that very well, but that was the last time we faced, he can say what he wants about me and my looks and my so-called dwindling career and the fact that I’m supposed to be taking care of orphans in Mexico and whatnot. If anything Trent needs to worry about himself, and Lance needs to worry about Trent because let’s be honest there is nothing more Lance Storm will achieve in this company when Trent fails on Sunday, is there anything else worth sticking around for? Because all of the time, all of however much energy he has left, all of his talent he has invested in Trent looks to have worked once upon a time when he became the World Champion, but he proved it to be a fluke because right after that he fell down that ladder and he fell and he fell and he fell and they think they’re better than me but it’s funny how things work out because even though they believe they’re the best, they have to try and stop me from taking the title, so if I’m mediocre then they’re just as mediocre as I am.
TODD GRISHAM
It could be argued that, Trent is a former World Champion so he’s achieved a lot more…
SAMI ZAYN
I’m not denying that, Lance Storm has achieved more than I have, Trent has achieved more than me as well but that’s all changing on Sunday. The fact is Trent was World Champion, a World Champion who…failed. Lance Storm and Chris Jericho have created a failure and no matter how much they deny it, they know it’s true because it’s the biggest achievement in their EBWF careers, that they led an average guy into a World Champion for a couple of months. And just like his stint as World Champion, his Intercontinental Title reign is going to fail as well and it fail in the grandest way at the grandest stage and that is a promise.
Sami and Todd shook hands after he celebrated on the turnbuckles as the fans chanted his name along with his theme music. He exited the ring and continued to greet the fans on his way out, trying to rush out as quickly as possible so the next batch of superstars and divas could come out for the remainder of the Access event.
- - - - - - -
Sunday April 5th 2015 – WrestleMania XIV – Levi’s Stadium – San Jose; California
The big night was finally here, one night after the Slammy Awards at the SAP Center, Sami Zayn was heading into Levi’s Stadium as the challenger for the Intercontinental Championship and was hoping to leave California as the new champion, but it wouldn’t be easy against two of the finest in the company in Trent and Lance Storm. With his match slowly approaching, he had one final promo on-screen to air in build-up to his match, and the 70,000 plus crowd erupted in cheers when his face was shown on the titan-tron, he looked ready as he looked into the camera, wearing his ‘InZayn’ t-shirt over his wrestling tights, he was eager to get down to the ring but had a little more waiting to do and one final moment of talking before the wrestling would take over soon.
SAMI ZAYN
This is it now, the day I’ve been waiting for ever since Trent pinned my shoulders to the mat at Fallout and my world came crashing down around me. But while Lance Storm has had Trent’s shoulders pinned to their bed every night since then I’ve been busy, busy preparing, busy practicing and busy winning. And all of that preparation pays off tonight. You know, everyone has doubted me since the moment I stepped in here, I was doubted and laughed at when I challenged Syxx for the gold and I defeated him, I was doubted when I defended it when asked and I retained the gold, I was doubted against Dolph and I pinned him, I’ve just pinned our World Champion, I’ve just pinned The Great One, so Trent and Storm? Bring it on, everything you have, bring it all because at a stage like this only your best will do and I’m bringing my A game, things you’ve NEVER seen before and I will not stop until I have the title around my waist. Tonight has to be the night, MY night because I’ve done everything I needed to do to make sure I’m at an advantage, and I have the momentum. I can’t afford to lose tonight, I won’t lose tonight especially against you two jokes when my family are all here, when my friends all here right on the front row to watch me do what I do best, entertain, and win.
Sami ran his hands through his hair, trying to calm himself down but was understandably eager to get into the ring.
SAMI ZAYN
Lance Storm…you…you surprised me the most, I know you had or have an eye for talent now I’m not one to sing my own praises but I think I’m a pretty good, valuable superstar to keep around. So when I was supposed to have my one on one match with you, I knew you’d try to rattle me but to stoop so low to practically take me out of WrestleMania didn’t upset me, because from day one I knew you were an asshole but the only thing it did was piss me off and that’s the last thing you want to do, piss off someone who wants kick your head off. You already have a great reputation, for being a fantastic wrestler and outspoken and you’d be right in saying I looked up to you considering we’re both Canadian and all but now? You sicken me, I read on social media how Chris Jericho wished you a happy birthday, calling you the second greatest Canadian in the EBWF but at least he has a brain because even he knows I’m the greatest Canadian in this company and I’ll prove it, as much as I want it to be you, kick your head off and pin your shoulders to the mat, I just NEED to pin Trent, even though you did the dirty work before I lost the title, he got the vital cover and for that I need to make him pay more than I need to make you pay, because his loss and his pain hurt him less than it hurts you and you’re going to feel more pain than you’ve ever felt tonight, I can assure you of that.
Sami then jumped on the spot to get his blood pumping again, staying warmed up for the match and taking in the epic reaction he was receiving from the fans.
SAMI ZAYN
Which brings me to our incredible champion himself, a fighting champion, the best current champion in the business, Trent. You clearly don’t respect that championship, you clearly don’t want to be the champion because you think you’re better than you are which is another lie, you’re not bigger than that title, you never have been and you never will be and the ONLY reason people are talking about you right now is because either you’re being forced down our throats or because that title is hanging around your waist! By the end of tonight neither of those will be a problem, Lance and Chris will realise you’re worthless and will give up on you because their plan continues to fail, and you’ll no longer be Intercontinental Championship because the title will be with me, the rightful champion who actually respects what it stands for, for the both of you – your time is up, this game now comes to an end.
The screen faded to black as Sami’s time on screen came to an end, now he just had to play the waiting game for a little while longer before his theme music would play, the loyal fans inside Levi’s Stadium would burst into cheers and he’d dance down the ramp and into the ring in the hope of not only putting on a great match with Trent and Lance Storm, but walk out as the new champion.