Rising from the Ashes

[Billy]

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October 25th 2020
EBWF.net Exclusive Interview with Aiden English
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Renee Young was sitting in an elegant high-backed chair made of a dark cherry wood and ivory white upholstery. A matching chair framed the other side of the screen. In between the two chairs was a black background with a television screen mounted dead center. The television was flanked on either side by gaudy fake plants. The screen was displaying the Fanniversary logo, tilting left and right slowly. Renee coughed and scooted slightly forward in her seat.

Renee Young: Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining me on Fanniversary Confidential right here on EBWF.net! We’re seven days away from one of the biggest nights for Professional Wrestling. This year, Fanniversary is set be a spectacle from start to finish! Tommaso Ciampa and Darby Allin are going one on one in a Falls Count Anywhere match! Then the women of EBWF are set to tear the house down in a tag team match as Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross take on Becky Lynch and Winter! The EBWF Gateway Champion is going to be defended by Champion, Randy Orton, when he takes on Tomohiro Ishii. And our big main event, The Rock defends his newly won EBWF World Championship against both former Champion, Chris Jericho, and a returning Aiden English. But, there’s a lot more at stake in our main event than just the EBWF World Title. Let’s take a look at how we got here, starting all the way back at when Chris Jericho won the Championship from Aiden English!

The screen cut to an EBWF logo and then a crosscut faded directly to the video package without Renee on screen. Jericho was laying with his hand draped over Aiden’s right shoulder. The sound distorted as the bell sounded “Judas” played. Jericho knelt next to English with the Championship draped over his shoulder. A jump cut to Jericho fleeing Aiden English up the side of a production truck. Aiden caught him and set up for the Director’s Cut, only to be tossed off the side. The camera closed in on Aiden as the screen darkened and the ambulance sirens blasted. Another jump cut with an overlaid crowd cheer. This time the Rock was delivering the Rock Bottom to Edge. The referee counted to three, another overlaid cheer. Jericho is sitting on the King of the Ring throne clapping his hands with a look of distain on his face. Next was Summerslam. Hager is ejected from ringside. Wes and Jericho argue. Rock is locked in the Walls of Jericho. Rock is about to tap but just barely makes it to the ropes. Rock ducks a Judas Elbow and hits the Rock Bottom. Rock with the World Title. The Rock’s theme played as the camera followed Jericho up the ramp, still shouting and yelling. Suddenly Aiden ran out and slammed a chair across Jericho’s back. The music warped again. Aiden delivered the Director’s Cut to Jericho and stood at the top of the ramp clapping as the package faded back to the EBWF logo. Another crossfade and Renee English was back on screen, but this time she was joined by Aiden English.

Renee Young: Please welcome, my guest at this time, former EBWF Word Champion, AIDEN ENGLISH! Aiden, I’m glad you joined us. It’s been several months since we had a chance to really sit down and talk. In the time that you’ve been away from the EBWF recovering from the injury you suffered at the hands of Chris Jericho, you’ve become a father. Congratulations to both you and your wife.

Aiden English: Thanks Renee and thanks for having me. Although, I don’t think I can claim much of the credit for becoming a father. We all know that Raquel did all the heavy lifting on that one. Like all the fathers out there, I’ve got the easy half of the job!

Renee Young: I don’t know about that. I expect that your wife has a very high standard when it comes to fathers. What is it like trying to live up to the shadow of Eddie Guerrero?

Aiden English: You know, it’s not something that I really think about. That shadow is something I’ve gotten used to after joining Raquel’s family. Really, I think my mother-in-law has higher expectations than my wife. But, there are benefits to having such a tight nit family when it comes to raising a baby. For one, we don’t even have to ask for a babysitter. In fact sometimes it’s more difficult to get Vickie to leave the house than it is to get Lynn to sleep.

Renee Young: I can only imagine. How did becoming a father impact your return to the EBWF? Was it a hard choice to make?

Aiden English: I did take a bit of extra time at home to settle in and just be with my family. Recovery was over and I was happy. But I kept watching from the sidelines as Chris Jericho ran around here like he owned the Universe. While he lorded his title over the fans and superstars alike. I knew that I was going to have to return in time. Regardless of how much time I want to spend with my family, at the end of the day this is a job and I’ve got to put food on my table if I want my family to survive. So, I spent some time watching and planning. Honestly, I thought Summerslam was going to go different. I didn’t know if the Rock had it in him after all his time away from the ring. So I planned on attacking a retaining World Champion and making a statement. But, I was all in. I had to follow through with the plan. So, I did what I did. Karmic retribution for the man who put me on the sidelines to begin with.

Renee Young: I’m not sure that Chris see’s it that way. To my understanding, he thinks you’ve weaseled your way into his title match. Any comment on that?

Aiden English: Everything looks like a weasel from the eyes of a rat. Jericho made this bed when winning the title wasn’t enough. When he pressed his luck. Sure, he got the better of me. Sure, I spent months recovering from the wounds I received at his hands. Sure, he got to prance around here as a champion in my absence. But let’s focus on something. It was in MY ABSENCE that Chris got to rule the roost. It was in MY ABSENCE that the Rock became the World Champion. I return and Wes knows, the Universe knows, and I’ll be damned if the two people I’m facing at Fanniversary didn’t know… Everything is different. Aiden English is going to shake things up and I’m going to become a THREE TIME EBWF WORLD CHAMPION.

Renee Young: You brought up the Rock and I’d like to dig into that. After your return at Summerslam the rock saved you from an attack on Warfare. But, you didn’t return the favor. Why is that?

Aiden English: Simply put, it was all part of the plan. We’ve been talking about this same thing for two years Renee. When I set down and prepare for a match, there’s a light that goes on. I start planning for all the what ifs, the could be’s and the might happens. I knew when I walked down to that ring that Chris Jericho wouldn’t be far behind. That’s why I had already talked to management and asked for my World Title rematch. That’s why I knew that Chris had done the same. That’s why when he opened his mouth he was walking right into my trap. Did I know that Hager and Jericho were going to jump me? YEAH! Absolutely. It was a calculated risk. Did I know Rock was going to run down and break it up? COUNTED ON IT. So then the time comes and Jericho and Hager turn it on Rock at the end of the show. Where’s Aiden English? I was sitting in the back, watching from a monitor. Because Rock wasn’t my partner, my ally, enemy of my enemy. Nope. Rock was my competitor. I was challenging for his title. And I welcome advantage, even if it offers Chris the same opportunity.
Renee Young: So, this is dark Aiden thrust back into the spotlight?

Aiden English: No. There’s no more Dark Aiden, Light Aiden, Old Aiden, New Aiden. None of that. I am who I am and that’s all that I am. By hook or by crook? If it comes to that! Stand up to the threat to the Universe? If I need to! Become the threat to the Universe? If it takes that to survive! Cleanse myself of past transgressions? Absolutely not. I won’t apologize, I won’t beg forgiveness and I won’t be something I’m not for the benefit of someone that doesn’t concern me.

Renee Young: Who does concern you?

Aiden English: I have a network, a tight one, of family and friends.

Renee Young: Is Jimmy Havoc a member of that network?

Aiden English: There’s a name I don’t hear very often anymore. Jimmy Havoc? What brought him to mind?

Renee Young: Your talk about a threat to the Universe reminded me of when you joined Havoc’s team against Legion.

Aiden English: How did that turn out for me?

Renee Young: You were betrayed along with the entire EBWF Universe when Havoc revealed himself as a member of Legion.

Aiden English: That about answers that question doesn’t it?

Renee Young: Okay, fair enough. What about CM Punk? He’s been absent from your side for the last few weeks. Is CM Punk a part of your close network?

Aiden English: No. Plainly put, Punk and I never saw eye to eye. We worked together because of our mutual connection to Chicago and the excellent management skills of my wife. Those days are done and I’m about as close to CM Punk as you are someone like John Moxley.

Renee Young: Okay, let’s talk hypothetical. You beat Jericho and the Rock at Fanniversary, what does EBWF look like with Aiden English as World Champion?

Aiden English: For one, I think it’s high time that EBWF had a champion focused on the company, the sport and the Universe. I will be that champion. One who cares more about wrestling, more about the EBWF and more about the core fans than I do hitting target numbers, wooing film critics and scheduling touring dates. I’m not the Rock. The EBWF Universe doesn’t have to worry that I’ll get a call from Hollywood and disappear back into the annals of fame and excess. The EBWF Universe can rest soundly knowing that when they wake up the EBWF World Champion is still going to show up on Monday, tear down the house and put on the best performance of the night! I’m not going to leave them high and dry to film Rampage 2. I’m going to be here, I’m going to be at every show, every event, every press junket. That’s the kind of champion you get out of Aiden English. I’m not off booking gigs and living out some pipe dream rock and roll career. I’m not forcing the EBWF Universe to listen to my tone def home recordings and lame live performances. I’m not making a mockery of the EBWF Universe by putting out one of the worst rock albums ever pressed and then going on a mall tour of America for a hundred bucks and a headlining credit. I don’t do part time, half assed or second fiddle. WRESTLING. It’s my first love. EBWF is my home and I am dedicated to it and only it. I’ll be in this ring even when Jericho is on tour or at sea. I’ll be in this ring when either of them is on stage. I’ll be the champion the people deserve even if I’m not “their” champion. WHEN the ship is righted and I’m back at the helm, I’m going to bring EBWF back to the forefront of the industry. I’m going to show the fans why they invested in this company and management why they invested in me! Wait and see Renee. Aiden English is headed for a Golden Age and he’s taking everyone with him!

Renee Young: One last question before we’re out of time. What do you say to the critics that say you’re the least experienced wrestler in this match? Do you think that lack of experience works against you? Keep it short and sweet because we only have a minute or so remaining.

Aiden English: That’s not a bad question Renee. But, sadly if you want the answer to that question you’re going to have to keep your eyes on the EBWF Youtube page. Because I’ve got more to say about that than what we have time for today!

Renee Young: Well, ladies and gentlemen, Aiden English is back in the EBWF! You can see him next Sunday at Fanniversary when he faces Chris Jericho and the EBWF World Champion, the Rock, in a triple threat match to determine the fate of the World Championship!
The video ended with Renee and Aiden standing up and exchanging a handshake. The audio cut out as the two continued to talk to one another. The video slowly faded to the EBWF logo and then to black.
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October 28th 2020
NOT TELEVISED
Shaul and Matt at Home
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Matthew Rehwoldt walked across the living room with a small weekend bag slung over his shoulder. He was wearing a pair of heather sweatpants with the EBWF logo down one leg and an older Aiden English t-shirt with the sleeves cut off. He tossed the bag onto the couch as he passed in front of it. He glanced around the room at the clothing scattered everywhere.

Matthew Rehwoldt: Shaul, I don’t think this bag is going to work!

Shaul Guerrero: What? Why not?

Matthew Rehwoldt: Maybe you could pick two outfits and this bag would work.

Shaul Guerrero: Did you grab the right bag? It’s the black one with blue stars.

Matt picked the bag back up from the couch and looked at it. Clearly this bag had red stars. He slung the bag back over his shoulder and headed back toward the closet.

Matthew Rehwoldt: Yep, just kidding!

Shaul Guerrero: You had the wrong one?

Matthew Rehwoldt: Huh? No! Just teasing you about your clothes. Looks like enough clothes for two months.

Shaul Guerrero: Don’t you remember last year? We’re in the same position as last year. You’re going to be at every event, every meet and greet, signing, dinner. You name it and we’re going to be doing it. I’m going to be changing outfits twice a day just for that.

Shaul walked into the living room carrying Lynn Marie. She watched as Matt tugged at the right bag, freeing it from the mess of a closet and shutting the door before anything could spill out into the living room. He turned and smiled at her, BUSTED.

Matthew Rehwoldt: I’ll clean that up when we get home!

Shaul Guerrero: As long as it doesn’t end up like your filming room.

Matthew Rehwoldt: We had to rearrange for the nursery!

Shaul Guerrero: And you had how long to prepare for that?

Matthew Rehwoldt: Yes well… Mania?

Shaul Guerrero: You can’t use wrestling as an excuse for everything.

Shaul gave him a side hug and he kissed Lynn on the head. There was a knock at the door.

Matthew Rehwoldt: That’s for you!

Shaul opened the door while Matt went about packing the right suitcase. Waiting on the other side of the door was Vickie Guerrero who rushed right in. She took one look at the chaos and sighed.
Vickie Guerrero: You should have been packed yesterday! Yesterday Matt!

Matthew Rehwoldt: I know, I know. But we weren’t. It’s almost like we’ve got a brand-new baby, jobs and an insane schedule.

Vickie Guerrero: Been there, done this! Two kids! Both girls and Eddie never slowed down, not for a minute. You’ve got to get better at time management. BOTH OF YOU!

Shaul Guerrero: I know mom. We are aware.

Vickie Guerrero: That’s why I’m coming with you this week! It’s going to be crazy! I’ll be helping with my beautiful granddaughter! You’ll be going to fancy events, signing autographs until you pass out and THEN wrestling a main event.

Shaul Guerrero: And, we are so happy to have you with us. We wouldn’t be able to do this without you and I can’t imagine Matt being away for a week while I’m here alone with Lynn.

Matt stuffed the remaining clothing in the bag, only bothering to half fold anything. He zipped it closed by pushing the top down and pressing his body weight against it.
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October 30th 2020
EBWF Youtube Video
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The video opened with the old “Curtain Call” logo from Aiden’s youtube channel. The logo spiraled into oblivion and was replaced by the Fanniversary logo. There was an ALMOST unnoticeable transition from a screen graphic logo to one printed on a black curtain. The curtain split and Aiden English stepped into frame wearing his traditional denim attire. He smiled to the camera.

Aiden English: Triple Threat…. The words alone inspire fear in the heart of a champion. Knowing that you can be dethroned even if you’re not pinned or submitted is harrowing. I’m certain that the Rock is sitting at home right now thinking about it. Thinking about the fact that I could hit Chris Jericho with a Director’s Cut, make the pin and walk out of the Enterprise Center the EBWF Champion. Knowing that he could be walking into Christmas Eve of Destruction as the challenger instead of the champion. Knowing that this isn’t what he wanted when he was first told a rematch was going to be scheduled.

Aiden paced to the left side of the screen, not turning to face the camera.

Aiden English: Some might claim that this isn’t fair. That the Rock shouldn’t have to defend his title to me because he’s not the one who beat me and so I’m not intitled to my rematch. Maybe even the Rock himself is going to tell you that I don’t deserve a shot at “HIS” title because Jericho is the one who beat me, and Jericho is no longer the champion. Those claims, those are self-serving claims. Claims that would dry up if the tables were turned and the Rock was the one calling in a rematch after being sidelined with injury. Claims that Rock’s fans would deny, decry and destroy if they were reversed. Not fair? If Rock is worried about fair, he’s not going to get far as a champion, he’s not going to get far in Hollywood and he’s not going to get far in life. Why? Because life isn’t fair! Life doesn’t care how long you’ve been champion! Life doesn’t care what’s going on with your friends. Life doesn’t care what’s going on with your family.

Aiden turned to stare into the camera.

Aiden English: Rock. If you can only handle the fair threat, you don’t deserve to be the EBWF Champion. This is the hand you were delt. It’s time to shut up and put up. Or, if you “just can’t”, then it’s high time you get up and give up.

Aiden mimicked Rocks “come get some” hand gesture.

Aiden English: Come get some. Because regardless of fair or not, I’m coming to Fanniversary with the intent of reclaiming what I lost. And just like you never beat me for that title, I don’t care if I beat you or I beat Jericho. Just so long as that title comes back to the Windy City!

Aiden turned on his heels and walked to the other side of the screen. Once again, he faced off screen, this time in the opposite direction.

Aiden English: When I was put on the sidelines and the World Title hung off the waist of Chris Jericho, the state of wrestling fell into a decay. The EBWF hit a slump in viewership, attendance and merchandise sales. Wes called me twice a week asking when I was going to make my return, how close I was, when I was ready to get back to work. So, when I handed Wes this dream booking at Fanniversary he couldn’t wait to make it official. Chris Jericho, rock icon, versus the Rock, Hollywood star, versus the best wrestler of a generation, Aiden English. It’s got box office draw written in its DNA. When it comes to clicks and buys it hits every note pitch perfect. And, you could have had these two things with Jericho and the Rock going a second round with the roles reversed. But now, you’ve got wrestling talent that knows no bounds. The HEIR to the GREATEST WRESTLING LEGACY that has ever existed. Speaking of dynasty…

Aiden turned to face the camera with a wicked grin.

Aiden English: Chris, you’re the only one in this match without a claim to legacy in this industry. You’re not the TOP DOG of the Islands. You’re not the head of wrestling’s first family. You’re the son of a middling hockey player from Manitoba. Hell, your dad was so average at your country’s favorite pastime that he had to move to Oklahoma to play at one point! I guess that connection makes your partnership with Hager a little more understandable. He’s from that same bottom of the barrel state your daddy had to play hockey in. And I would think that playing hokey in Oklahoma would be the disgrace of a lifetime but, your dad wasn’t done there was he? Hell no Chris, he had to go on being disgraceful until he found the ultimate disgrace… having you. Imagine having to call Chris Jericho son. And, not in the demeaning way someone like Steve Austin might. The literal sense of the word. As a father myself, I don’t think I could live with the shame that is being Jericho’s papi. Yeah, that’s right Chris, I’m saying that you’re a disgrace. To your father. Who must live the rest of his life as just that, your father. To music. That is so constantly ruined by your egomaniacal need to belt out an out of tune melody into the ears of the innocent audience. Most of all Chris, to professional wrestling. The sport that’s had to carry the weight of your failures for the bulk of your career. The sport that’s had to comfort you every time you’ve come back depressed at a failed album, a failed tour, a failed cruise. The sport that’s had to find ways to lift you back on your feet so many times. Chris, I won’t sell you short. You’ve got talent. You’ve got charisma. You’ve got everything it takes to be good at all your many different careers. But, you’re a jack of all trades and I’m a master of this one.

Aiden’s smile faded.

Aiden English: This thing between me and you it’s not about the EBWF World Championship. No, that ships halfway around the world by now! Set sail after Mania. The title on the line, that’s just a happy side effect of what’s about to go down at Fanniversary. Us, this issue we have, it’s personal. You tried to end my career when you threw me off that production truck. You threatened the livelihood of my family. You tried to take something from me that I love. Looking back on it, you could have left my daughter with a father that was incapable of playing with her. Incapable of walks in the park, playing pony or even being awake.

He took a deep breath.

Aiden English: These were the things running through my mind at Summerslam. The impact of that chair across your spine was months and months of pent up anger being released into the Universe. What I started at Summerslam is going to come to an abrupt and very violent end at Fanniversary. There are no more TWO-man rematches. There are no more SECOND chances! We’re quite the PAIR Chris but at Fanniversary our story ends the same way it started. Me with the title, you singing a DUET with yourself in a bathroom mirror.

Aiden walked back to the center of the screen. He lowered his head and held up two fingers on his right hand.

Aiden English: If you were listening, paying attention, reading between the lines, you caught the foreshadowing of what’s coming next. This fight is a story told in twos. Chris Jericho and Aiden English, two former Champions challenging for the EBWF World Championship. Chris Jericho and the Rock, two part timers who treat the wrestling industry and EBWF as an afterthought. Two tough acts to follow.

He walks to the left side.

Aiden English: The movie star, fresh of his roles in box office greats like Skyscraper, Rampage, Shazam and Hobbs and Shaw returns to wrestling to become the EBWF King of the Ring. And, just ONE year following the company’s greatest King of the Ring. 2019’s victor, AIDEN ENGLISH. If he could only follow in the Drama King’s footsteps, his path to gold was assured. And, he managed to navigate that path better than he does script selection in his day job! Baywatch, San Andreas, Central Intelligence, G.I. Joe…

Aiden fakes a shiver.

Aiden English: A tough act to follow but he tows the line and takes the title from Chris Jericho in ONE hell of an exhilarating match.

Aiden walks to the right side of the screen.

Aiden English: The rock icon with a similar copycat routine of his own. He wins the Royal Rumble, a true test of a wrestler, only a year after EBWF’s greatest Royal Rumble story. Mister 1 to Done himself, the 2019 Royal Rumble winner, AIDEN ENGLISH! At Wrestlemania the singing sensation follows up a not so great album by becoming the EBWF World Champion from the very man whose footsteps he was walking in. And just in time to as he has his FIRST hit SINGLE.

Aiden steps back into the middle.

Aiden English: A story of two Fanniversaries leading to this ONE moment. ONE of our competitors is constant across both and that man is AIDEN ENGLISH. ONE of our competitors had title matches at both and that man is also AIDEN ENGLISH. ONE of our competitors WON title matches at both and that man IS AIDEN ENGLISH. And, if our story of two is telling us just ONE thing it’s that this story is actually a story about FIRSTS, SECONDS and THIRD times the charm. It’s a story about how history repeats itself. It’s a story about how ONE man has consistently been FIRST to the jump! How ONE man has done it better and competed consistently at the highest levels! A story about SECOND chances for TWO wrestlers whose reigns were ended. About TWO men trying to stay relevant now that other industries are in a drought. It’s a story about how THREE SECONDS can change the lives of THREE wrestlers one a SINGLE night. It’s a story about how the best man wins in the end.

Aiden tilted his head back to look up.

Aiden English: And, that man is the Drama King, AIDEN ENGLISH. That’s why we’re here. CENTER STAGE. Because I don’t belong in the spotlight, I AM the damn spotlight! I’m the golden boy of EBWF and now that I’m back, I WANT MY CROWN!

Aiden snapped his head forward and smiled into the camera. There was a long silence with Aiden only blinking. Then, slowly the shot started to fade to black and a golden crown appeared on the screen spinning. Behind it a silver castle faded in.
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October 31st 2020
Dinner Meet and Greet with Aiden, Raquel, Chavo and Elias
Filmed for EBWF.net Fanniversary Special
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Matthew Rehwoldt, Salvador Guerrero, Shaul Guerrero and Jeffrey Sciullo were sitting in the back of a limo as it made its way to their last obligation before Fanniversary itself. They were dressed in formal attire. Matt adjusted his suit cuff, mid chuckle.

Matthew Rehwoldt: And then Vickie says to the man behind the reception desk, EXCUSE ME!

They laughed at the tail end of Matt’s story about checking into their hotel. All four rock forward as the limousine comes to a stop. Matthew looks up at the driver who gives him a subtle nod in confirmation of his unspoken question. Matt puts a hand on the door handle.

Matthew Rehwoldt: Remember this is going up on the website so it’s game faces and ringside personas. Kayfabe isn’t dead, no matter who says otherwise. When we step out of this car we’re EBWF Wrestlers.
The doors opened and the camera was waiting just outside the limo. Aiden stepped out first and adjusted his gold tie. He reached his hand back and helped Raquel out of the limo next. Her dress was tight and the color was a near perfect match to her husband’s tie. The two of them walked a distance away and the camera held tight on the vehicle. Chavo Guerrero was wearing a red undershirt and black tie. Last out was Elias wearing a blue undershirt and black tie. The foursome gathered on the sidewalk outside the venue assigned to them. The camera pushed in for a tight shot of them with a small crowd of fans gathered in the background. Raquel turned and started greeting the fans as her male counterparts continued to pose for the camera with Aiden flanked on either side by his allies. Aiden joined Raquel in mingling with the assembled crowd but Chavo and Elias closed the gap between them and posed arms crossed. Aiden came back to Elias and Chavo and motioned toward the door with his head.

Aiden English: Time to head inside.

Aiden led them to the door and held it open. First the camera crossed the threshold backwards, then Chavo and Elias. Raquel wasn’t far behind them, but she stopped just inside the door to let Aiden catch up. She took his hand as they followed the cameraman toward their dining room. There was a long table set up at the front of the room with four place settings. The other half dozen tables in the room were round and each seated four or five fans. They started standing as Elias and Chavo entered the room. They walked out among the crowd and shook hands. It took some time for them to make the rounds and then get to the table. Chavo set on the far left and Elias on the far right. Once they were settled Raquel and Aiden entered arm in arm. Aiden took a step back and did his best Vana White impression while Raquel twirled. They made the same rounds, thanking people for coming and saying hello. Aiden pulled out his wife’s chair, let her sit and pushed it in slightly. He paused for a moment and looked at everyone in one sweeping glance. Then, he took his seat. A pair of production assistants came in and started clipping microphones to them.

Aiden English: I’m not sure we need these. Can all of you hear me fine?

The fans cheered and Aiden held out his hands as if to say “see”.

Production Assistant 1: It’s more for the camera than anything. Crisp audio for the web.

Aiden English: Oh yeah, okay. Well, if you didn’t know before, now you do. This little meet and greet is being recorded for the website by the order of the man himself, Wes Ikeda. He knows that he’s about to crown a new EBWF World Champion and wants all the footage for a triumphant return documentary.

The fans laughed along with Aiden. It was his turn to get a microphone and battery pack. As they adjusted the battery pack, he continually whispered nonsense into the lapel mic. A stream of ‘is this working, can you hear me, help me, whose hearing this’ all done as low as possible. When the assistants looked up at him, he looked away from the mic and started whistling. The fans and his allies laughed.

Aiden English: All right! Let’s get some introductions out of the way. I mean, obviously you know who we are, you bought tickets to this event after all. However, I am contractually obligated to tell you who I am, who these great people with me are and what we’re going to do tonight. Crossing the I’s and dotting the t’s as it were. So, let’s start front and center. I’m Aiden English, once and future King of professional wrestling. Soon to be three-time EBWF World Champion. To my left is the ever-lovely Raquel Diaz, former EBWF Women’s Champion and 2019 Women’s Royal Rumble winner. Further to the left is her cousin and my good friend, Chavo Guerrero Junior. You’ll here a lot of talk about the Guerrero Dynasty from myself, my wife, Chavo and probably my opponents this weekend. Well, let me tell you, this man is a shinning example of what the Guerrero family is capable of! He’s been a tag team and singles champion in companies all around the world! Here on my right is the music man, Elias Samson! This man has multiple hit albums to his names and writes way better songs than a certain traitorous disciple we all know.

He took a breath and stepped away from the table, walking to the far left side and leaning against it.

Aiden English: Now that we have the who out of the way. Let’s talk about the why. Usually these meet and greets are about you asking us questions and us answering them. And, I’m fine with that. It’s a great format that works well for post-production. It all wraps up real nice into a little bow for the website or youtube or facebook. But, they pay Renee Young to do that, she already did in fact. And, you people paid to be here with us. As far as I’m concerned those tickets buy you inclusion into an elite organization. Our KINGDOM.

Raquel pulled out a black t-shirt from under the table. There was a gold crown surrounding a grey tower on the center of the shirt. In a vaguely medieval font the word “KINGDON” hung over the tower in a slight arc mirroring the bottom of the crown. The fans cheered for the merchandise reveal. Aiden motioned for someone outside the door. The same two production assistants returned carrying loads of rolled t-shirts. They started handing them out to the crowd.

Aiden English: Really it should have been obvious. When the ticket form asks for shirt sizes, you’re getting one. So I guess that’s step one, announce new faction name to exclusive guests, in the books! Step two is to hand proceedings over to my gorgeous wife.

Raquel stood up and joined him at the side of the table. She kissed him on the cheek before walking on around in front of the table. He returned to his seat.

Raquel Diaz: When we decided it was time to start putting this crew back together, we knew that it had to be different than what was done in the past. We had to have a plan. We had to have organization. We had to be on equal footing. So we put together a name. We put together a goal. We talked about the strengths and weaknesses of everyone involved. Then, we put everything into action. Aiden began our first war by launching his retribution campaign against Chris Jericho. When Wes told us that we were going to be doing something this weekend I knew that was the perfect time to pull back the curtain and let the Universe in on what we’re doing. Show you the future of the company you love. To that end I started writing a speech to give. It was good. It was damn good. Then yesterday I was waiting on room service and I sat down with that little notepad they leave in the nightstand. And, I started jotting down all of the things that might get brought up today. The questions you would have for and about us. The first round is easy. It’s going to be about the pending title match. You know why it wasn’t hard? Because, last year when this time rolled around we were on the Rock’s side of these get togethers. Where all the questions were about how you defend a title at such a big pay per view, how you plan for your challenger and what do you do in the aftermath if you fail. I wrote those down on my notepad and ruminated. It wasn’t long before I realized those questions were as tired as I was getting of waiting on my food. None the less they would be asked and so I started to formulate the answers to those questions, and I realized real quick that I couldn’t come up with anything new and original. This isn’t Aiden’s first big match. Not his first World Title match. He’s not awed by the gravity of it all anymore. As far as the well of planning practices, training tips and future endeavors it has sadly run dry. You’re here, so you know that Aiden plans like a high school football coach prepping for the Superbowl. He dissects his opponent’s moves, mannerisms and flaws. He has an entire room dedicated to watching footage of past matches. I find it incredibly annoying and I love the hell out of him. If you fail, you pick up the pieces, figure out what went wrong and fight your way back to the top. You never give up on being the best. Next came to mind those questions of how you overcome the insurmountable odds of a triple threat match. How you plan for not one but two world class athletes. And, while that particular pair of horses has been beaten to death too, the questions fall flat. I haven’t wasted a moment of my time trying to keep up with what Chris Jericho and Dwayne Johnson have to say about the big main event match. They don’t matter. I know that I can answer for my husband sufficiently and succinctly. You overcome the odds by being better than the other two men. You overcome the odds by being the odds-on favorite and living up to the hype. I realized that my speech was hitting all those notes. It was walking a tried and true path. I was on autopilot before we ever got this plane off the runway. Not acceptable. So, I threw out the speech about how we’re going to conquer the Universe starting with the EBWF World Title. I got rid of every line in my playbook about how we’re the best athletes in the industry. It’s all tired. It’s all well known. The path most traveled. Those of you willing to give up your Halloween evening to sit and eat with us deserve something better. I can tell you that EBWF is about to undergo a change. Sure, it starts with Aiden English back at the helm of the company. But it doesn’t stop there. These other two men aren’t going to rest on their laurels. Your looking at a unit that’s going to take Tag Team Wrestling in EBWF and put it back on the damn map! They’re going to prove to you, the Universe and the company that the division deserves time, deserves love and deserves new blood. Elias and Chavo will represent KINGDOM in that division. They will dominate in the name of KINGDOM! Think about the mix of skills and talents these two men bring to the ring. Chavo is a technical mastermind, trained by some of the best wrestlers to ever live. Guided by the hand of his father, my father, their father and a whole host of other Guerreros he has a gift for holds and high flying that won’t be seen again for a generation. Elias for his part is a powerhouse! His Drift Away and rolling cutter put opponents down for the count. Not to mention his equalizer.

She strums and air guitar with a smile.

Raquel Diaz: I think if you’re keeping track that just leaves one thing. Just leaves a single division out in the cold. The EBWF Women’s division. If you thought the tag division was failing, you haven’t been paying attention to Women’s Wrestling lately, and honestly no one would blame you. Things have to change in the Women’s Division. Someone has to step in and make a difference. Bring eyes, ears and hearts back to the division. You’re looking at the woman who is going to do that. As of today, Raquel Diaz is OFFICIALLY an active member of the EBWF roster once again!

Raquel held out her hand behind her and Aiden pulled a crown from under the table. He looked it over before placing it into her hand. Raquel stepped forward and held the crown out in front of her.

Raquel Diaz: Step 2, dominate the industry.

She placed the crown on her head and smiled.
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November 1st 2020
Fanniversary Pre-Show
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Pyro erupted as the Fanniversary pre-show kicked off in the Enterprise Center. The crowd was cheering as “Moments” by Sevendust started to play. A mixed reaction for Aiden English. He stepped out onto the ramp alone and looked out over the crowd. He nodded his head to the music until the lyrics hit and then made his way down to the ring. He slid under the bottom rope.

Mauro Ranallo: Aiden has to be fired up for his big match tonight!

Nigel McGuinness: Absolutely Mauro and the EBWF Universe isn’t sure how to handle him.

Aiden leaned over the top rope and took a microphone. He walked back to the center of the ring and waited for the music to fade out.

Aiden English: UNIVERSE! I’m back! It’s Fanniversary time again. And again, we find ourselves on the precipice of history in the making. So, tirelessly we trudge toward a terrible tragedy as two timeless titans take on an enduring and endearing talent. This majestic monarch motivated to move mountains must overcome envy and enmity. Famous failures fall forward into future errors and errant fate. Confused?

The crowd cheered.

Aiden English: Tonight, I’m reclaiming the EBWF World Championship by beating the Rock and Jericho. When the dust settles the King wears the crown. The future is now, the past is done. Icons of old serve no purpose in the new world!

The lights flashed. Aiden started looking around. The lights flashed again and then went out. The crowd gasped. When the lights came back up there were three figures in black robes and white masks surrounding the ring. Aiden’s eyes narrowed, darting from figure to figure. One figure climbed up onto the apron and pulled his mask off.

Mauro Ranallo: It’s Hangman Page! He hasn’t been seen around here in years!
Aiden rushed at him, but Page dropped off the apron before Aiden could hit him. The man on the opposite side climbed up and pulled off his mask. Aiden bounced of the ropes and charged at him.

Nigel McGuinness: Is that Mikey Whiplash?

Whiplash dropped off the apron as the third figure went to climb up on the apron. Aiden planned for this and turned, leveling the still masked figure with a clothesline. The figure bounced off the apron as his white mask flew off to reveal Kazuchika Okada.

Mauro Ranallo: I thought this was all dead and buried.

Nigel McGuinness: Aiden has a storied history in EBWF, and these three men are as much a part of it as anyone.

Page and Whiplash slid in the ring and charge Aiden. He stood his ground and fought back but the numbers were quickly overwhelming him. They pushed him back into the corner as he continued to swing, landing several strong blows. Okada was back up and in the ring. Three on one they kicked Aiden down into the corner. The crowd cheered as Chavo Guerrero and Elias Samson hit the ring. Chavo spun Okada around and Elias hit him with a running big boot to take him back off his feet. Page turned his attention to Chavo and the two battled to the ropes. Elias pulled Whiplash off Aiden and the two started to exchange blows.

Mauro Ranallo: I’m not sure why these three showed up here tonight but Chavo and Elias are here to even the odds.

Raquel Diaz was walking down the ramp with a guitar in her hands as Chavo clotheslined Hangman Page to the outside. Elias did the same on the opposite side of the ring to Mikey. Aiden was finally getting to his feet. Elias pulled Okada to his feet and set him up for the Drift Away. As soon as Okada hit the mat Chavo took flight and delivered a Frog Splash.

Nigel McGuinness: What a devastating combination.

Aiden rolled Okada toward the ropes as the crowd cheered. Suddenly, a look hit his face. His eyes went wide and so did his smile. He started to pull Okada to his feet. He glanced down at Whiplash to his left, then Page to his right as they regained their footing. He hit the Director’s Cut on Okada. Page slid under the bottom rope and jumped to his feet only to get smashed over the head with a guitar shot from Elias. Aiden sat next to Okada laughing. He reached over and rolled Okada onto his side. Aiden lifted Okada back to his feet. The reactions were mixed again. Aiden hit a second Director’s Cut on Okada.

Mauro Ranallo: Aiden English still has a mean streak in him.

Nigel McGuinness: I thought he would reserve this kind of animosity for Chris Jericho tonight!

Mauro Ranallo: I think this sends a clear message that no one is safe.

Aiden stood up and wrapped his arm around Raquel’s waist. She turned her head and posed, Aiden kissing her cheek. Elias stood beside them with the neck of his shattered guitar in one hand and the other on Chavo’s shoulder. The camera cut to Mauro and Nigel at the announcer’s desk.