Only One (Chris Jericho)

[Ben M]

The Last Survivor pre-show was underway, and most of the 21,000 fans who had bought tickets for the first EBWF pay-per-view of 2024 were already in their seats inside Wells Fargo Center, ready for the action. The lights in the arena went out, and there was a sense of anticipation from the crowd. “Judas” by Fozzy hit, and the crowd cheered as Chris Jericho stepped out onto the stage, then made his way to the ring. Jericho was holding a microphone, and after signalling for his music to be cut, he began to speak.

Chris Jericho: Good evening, Philly! Here we are again... Another year, another Last Survivor match. And who better to grace the ring with his presence than the one and only Chris Jericho, huh?

The crowd erupted into cheers, showing their appreciation.

Chris Jericho: Now, I could stand here all night and talk about each and every one of the 29 other guys I'll be facing in this ring. But let's be honest, most of them aren't worth my time. So, I'll just focus on the ones that actually matter.

Jericho paused for a moment, his gaze intense as he began to address his chosen adversaries.

Chris Jericho: First up, we have Hook, the young upstart who managed to get lucky against me once. But let me make one thing clear, Hook... lightning doesn't strike twice. It’s been 18 months since I answered your open challenge, and you choked me out. I’ve been waiting to avenge that defeat, and tonight seems like the perfect opportunity... that is of course, assuming someone else hasn’t already thrown you over the top rope before I enter. Number two spot... it sucks to be you, huh?

Jericho paused for a moment, then continued.

Chris Jericho: Next, we have Edge and Randy Orton. Two guys who have been around in EBWF for almost as long as I have. Edge, Orton, I have history with both of you, and while there are times in the past where I’ve hated you both, I’m too old for that now. I respect you both, and I might even have to admit that I like you both. But in the Last Survivor match, it doesn’t matter who you like or respect, it’s every man for themselves. So, consider yourselves warned... I won't hesitate to toss you both over the top rope if the opportunity presents itself. Now, onto another Canadian, Christian Cage.

The crowd booed at the mention of Christian.

Chris Jericho: I know, I know... I’m not a fan of Christian either. Frankly, I couldn't care less about you, Christian. But since you have a tendency to whine when you're left out, here's your moment of fame. Just remember, I'm not here to make friends. I'm here to win, and if that means tossing you out like yesterday's garbage, then so be it. I know you’re used to losing anyway, so please don’t be offended by that.

The crowd cheered at Jericho's dismissive attitude towards Christian.

Chris Jericho: Another person I should mention because he expects everyone to pay him attention is MJF... the self-proclaimed “generational talent” who seems to have lost his touch. He’s more like a “generational jobber” these days! And that’s just on the days he shows up. Well, MJF, unlike you I can walk the walk as well as talk the talk. So if our paths cross tonight, I guarantee I’ll give you an ass kicking so bad, you’ll be begging for mercy!

Jericho paused, thinking whether there was anyone else to mention. A name came to mind, and Jericho continued.

Chris Jericho: Oh, I almost forgot... there’s The Miz too! What happened, Miz? You used to be one of my biggest rivals here in EBWF. The last time I was EBWF World Champion, you ended my title reign... it was almost two years to the day. Then last year, you became World Champion again on the first Warfare of 2023, but since Damian Priest defeated you at Gateway to Glory, it’s like you’ve given up. But don't think for a second that I'll take you lightly. I know what you're capable of when you're at your best, and entering the match at number 29, you have a huge opportunity tonight. Honestly Miz, I’d rather you bring your A-game tonight... I’d welcome the challenge. But if you don't, you'll be nothing but a footnote in my victory.

Jericho got a mixed reaction for his comments on The Miz. He shrugged, acknowledging that Miz had a lot of fans in Philadelphia.

Chris Jericho: I get it, I like Miz too... well, I did until he started hanging out with Michael Cole. That was unforgiveable. Anyway, I digress. Tonight, Last Survivor, yours truly enters the ring with 29 other guys. Only one can emerge victorious. And that one... will be me!

Jericho dropped the microphone and smiled confidently, soaking in the cheers from the crowd. His music hit and Jericho exited the ring, then made his way to the back.