Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 6 de 13 de agosto de 2023

Violent Conduct is two weeks away. The Queen for a Day participants have been decided. Zoey Lukas, Tempest, Kim Pain, and me. Neither of us got here by accident, we weren't simply just waiting for a handout. Every Bombshell here earned her way into this match, believe it or not, whether you like it or not, and there's not anything anyone can say or do about it.

Of course, my distractors still take the time out from their boring, mundane lives to run my name and reputation through the mud, which, let's face it, is purely because I am everything they’re not and everything they wish they could be and because I'm living the career they only wished they had. To me,  with or without a championship, whether I'm in a pre-show match, the opening match, the mid-card, or the main event, I've proven without a doubt that I'm the most accomplished talent in the women's division. While my competition is still so desperately trying to reach for brass rings, I already have mine, two of them.

OK, so they're not actually brass rings, or made from brass, but my Hall of Fame rings look so much better.

Apparently, I had a match last show, but why even bother mentioning it when my opponent didn't care about the outcome in the week leading up to it? They say you’re only as good as your last match. Well, I'm not defined by one match, or several matches. Because like I've said before and I'll say again, I don’t lose. I win or I learn. Why bring attention to someone that has had just a few good months? Why waste my words on someone who deserves silence?

Out of sight, out of mind. Moving on.

Anyone who has known me, knows that I am too resilient and too tough to stay down for long. So motivation for my match against Tempest this weekend was at an all-time high. That I'm facing a familiar name who has given me a tough challenge in the past is always a match you get up for

That said, the history between Tempest and I isn't very long, but it did have its moments, particularly the time where Goth and I beat Tempest and Austin James Mercer for the World Mixed Tag Team Championship It's true that they won the first round, but Goth and I got our sweet revenge, so there's that.

However, the first time Tempest and I met, one-on-one, she beat me. She won. Haven't exactly gotten over that, but good things come to those who wait. So, with all apologies to a 90s song I heard the other day: it has to start somewhere, it has to start sometime. What better place than here? What better time than now?

I remember when Tempest first made her debut in SCW. That she had to face her fellow GO Gym Graduate, Krystal Wolfe was ironic to say the least, but Tempest won that match, and pretty convincingly, I might add.

Most opponents who stand in Tempest's way don't stand a chance, much less have a prayer. In her eyes, they're not even an opponent. They're a ragdoll, a chew toy, a sacrifice, a simple act of charity given by SCW.

What I find funny is that in the more than two years since Tempest's Christmas night debut, her only claim to fame is that tag title run. No doubt she could go on a long singles title reign, but something seems to be missing. Since losing the World Mixed Tag Team Championship, what exactly has Tempest done since in her career? She should have won the Bombshell Internet Championship in that battle royal instead of Kayla Richards last year. She and Austin had to be the favorites in the four-way mixed tag World Mixed Tag Team Championship match at Summer XXXTreme this year. You know, maybe, just maybe, Tempest isn't the threat she claims to be. Maybe she's destined to be a tag team wrestler forever and only trotted out for special occasions like some kind of pandering show pony or a rodeo clown.

She's lost only three times in singles matches, which in and of itself, is impressive. She beat Alexandra Calaway in her last match. Impressive, yes, but sometimes it's not about the opponents you beat, but the opponents who beat you. And the three opponents who own a victory over Tempest are the last people I wouldn't even give the time of day: Bella Madison, Bobbie Dahl, and Seleana Zdunich.

Oof.

Did I say that out loud?

Sorry, not sorry.

Tempest has had her way with a lot of her opponents in SCW, yet very few have really challenged her, and I like to believe I'm one of them. With Tempest, she's expecting to see fear and desperation in my eyes, and there should be. But that's not what she's getting. No, behind these eyes, mamita, is anticipation. Behind these eyes are little flames dancing in excitement because now I get an opportunity to wipe that smirk off your face before I crush your dreams two weeks later when I climb that ladder, rung by rung, and claim that Queen for a Day contract. You, Zoey, and Kim will witness history while I make history one more time. I mean, at this point, Tempest, this should be nothing for you because two years ago in late November 2020, I became a record three-time World Mixed Tag Team Champion.

I like Rio, I love Rio, but there's a time for business and pleasure, and I'm going to have both this weekend.

Sunday can't come soon enough. I'm waiting with baited breath for the moment I get the opportunity to step in the ring with you and finally add your name to my checklist.

Revenge is an act of passion, vengeance is an act of justice. And while they say good things come to those who wait, something tells me Tempest isn't going to like what's coming to her.

As a matter of fact, I guarantee it.


FLASHBACK || RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL || SUNDAY, JULY 28, 2013

[Mercedes Vargas buries her face in her hands and sighs deeply, sitting in her hotel room, reflecting on what happened to her moments ago.

Some would call it a tragedy. Others would call it a case of simple bad luck. But she knew better. She knew a lot better to know what this really was. It had to have been an hour or so after the show ended.

Mercedes: All I wanted was to go out. Is that too much to ask?

[Even if the plan was to sit inside a warm, dry bar, she didn't expect her newfound friends to postpone for another day. Well, rain seems to be an occurrence here in Brazil, so this was normal. At least this is what her roommate tells her.]

Roommate: Are you listening to yourself right now?

«She sits on the bed next to Mercedes. She gets up and moves away, turning her back towards him.»

Mercedes: Sorry, it's just that I hate being cooped up in my room all day. It's been raining all day.

[She turns around and faces him.]

Mercedes: This was supposed to be My TIME. MY MOMENT. AND IT WAS ALL TAKEN AWAY FROM ME! DAMN MOTHER NATURE!!

Mercedes failure to compose herself doesn't end well as her roommate slowly stands to his feet, shaking his head.»

Roommate: I told you this would happen, you didn't believe me. Now you see for yourself. Are you going to be okay?

Mercedes: Yeah, I guess so.

Roommate: If we hurry now, we just might catch the last flight out of the country.

Mercedes: I'll be down in five minutes. I just need to be alone right now.

Roommate: Take your time.

[The roommate walks out of the leaves before he stops and turns back to Mercedes.]

Roommate: I'll be downstairs.

Mercedes: Just go!


Present Day ♦ RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL

[REC•]

"Another week in South America? What did I do to deserve this kindness?"

[Open on Mercedes Vargas at a juice bar in Rio, which is common in this city. Dressed in a red dress and high heels, her brunette hair into a tumble of soft curls.]

"Beautiful people, breathtaking scenery, vibrant nightlife. What's not to love about Brazil, especially Rio? When they said this month would have a lot of tourists here, they weren't joking. You know how long it took me to find a place to get some peace and quiet?

"Anyway..."

[She takes a sip from her half-full glass, puts it down on the counter.]

"Wow! This papaya drink is amazing!

Anyway, my match last week in Peru didn't exactly work out how I wanted to, but that's okay. New week, new city, new opponent, same goal: to win. With Violent Conduct just around the corner, momentum is important, but little did I know that my opponent is one I'll be seeing again in two weeks. Oh, and did I mention this is a Throw in the Towel match? I didn't? Well it bears repeating: A Throw in the Towel match. Which means it's an I Quit match. Well, this sure wasn't on my bingo card for 2023?"

[Mercedes offers a side eye roll.]

"Well, if you've been following my career in Sin City Wrestling for the past ten years, you know that I have never backed down from a challenge yet, and I don't quit. Ever. I've survived and thrived and rolled through the punches in SCW, even when things weren't so great. I've  survived Bombshells trying to end my career, I've had mealy mouth bitches serve up put downs and disses and throwing negativity my way for most of my career."

[She pauses for a second.]

"It didn't work then, it didn't work now. Tempest, you know better than anyone that I'm a fighter, because that's who I am. How did you think I got where I am in my career? The only way you're going to get Kim to throw in the towel is in your wildest dreams.

"Come this Sunday, I'm going to be the reality staring you in the face at the go-home show. And the reason Zoey throws in the towel on your behalf isn't to stop the match, it's to save you from me!"

[Mercedes points at herself before she gives an intimidating look at the camera.]

"See you Sunday!"

[***Fade***]

Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 9 al 16 de julio 2023

Now, I know what you’re thinking. "Mercedes, you just walked out of yet another Summer XXXTreme, in yet another title match, in yet another pay-per-view, in yet another opportunity at the Bombshell Roulette Championship, and boarding yet another lonely flight back home with nothing to show for it. Isn't it about time you, you know, retire?"

I'd be lying if I said there wasn't a part of me that wonders what it would be like to sit back and relax on some beach with a drink with a little umbrella in there instead of living out on a suitcase. I know I'm not getting any younger, some already say I'm past my prime to compete with the competition.

Maybe I should just give this up. Maybe I should cut my losses now and quit while I'm ahead. So many opportunities, always finding myself in contendership or title matches, never quite getting the job done. I think I qualify as a choke artist. And I get it, I totally get it. It's a 'what have you done for me lately' kind of world we live in. Retirement sure sounds good right now.

Listen, I'll cut a deal with you: if Jessie Salco wins the Bombshell Championship, I'll consider it.

But let's get this back to where it should be. I just lost another match in what is another lost year for yours truly. But still, I am a two-time SCW Hall of Famer, a two-time Bombshell world champion, a one-time Bombshell Internet champion, a four-time Bombshell Roulette champ, a six-time Tag titleholder between the Bombshell World Tag and Mixed Tag titles, and a former and the first ever Queen for a Day. I have to win sometimes, right? I wouldn't have the second-most career wins ever in the company if I wasn't.

Right?

Right.

Facing Seleana Zdunich this weekend wasn't exactly on my bingo card, but I'm thinking I'm going to show mercy against everyone's favorite little Swedish idiot. I just don't know if her ego can take much kicking after the year she's having, but I'm pretty sure I'm obligated to do so. So, that being said, I hope she enjoys eating the canvas again.

So, final words, I hope Seleana brings her A-game, because I sure will be. You best believe I'm going to be out to ruin her summer.


ABOARD THE SUN PRINCESS CRUISELINER

[Four weeks ago, Mercedes Vargas had her first win in SCW in a very long time. Sure, it was only a dominant win over a member of the prestigious Steele family, but, in the end, it didn't matter. Her hand was still raised at the end of the match with Ruby. It was no big deal, really. Grand Canyon University Arena was just another venue she's visited many times before. Her dominant victory against Ruby was trivial to the one thing greater than facing an inferior opponent, it was greater than her victories few and far between this year.]

“Looks like today is going to be another beautiful day.”

"You're in a good mood. This is, this is good."

[Mercedes spun around on her chair where she gazed at the screen of her open laptop in front of her, and there was the familiar visage of her parents, Estelle lazily on the couch, half interested in the telenovela on the television. Fernando pops in and out of frame.

[Even after an active-filled week aboard the Sun Princess, Mercedes Vargas is tired, but sleep is the last thing on her mind. Instead, admiring herself in front of a mirror, Mercedes adds the finishing touches to her makeup to conclude what was a half hour session. She exudes excitement despite her lack of sleep and disappointment.

A week removed from Summer XXXTreme, the Hall of Famer was looking forward to what was to be another exciting supercard, especially the tall task she faced on the weekend when she battled Jessie Salco and Laura Phoenix. No doubt visions of a Bombshell Roulette Championship triumph in the Ultimate X Over the Pool. Salco and Phoenix, legendary ring generals like herself, Mercedes hoped to once again defy expectations in making history one more time.

As was the case this year, history was delayed.

Mercedes takes up her iPhone and, sure enough, they were already tweets talking about the night's main event the world over. J2H reclaimed the world championship in what will likely be one of the most remarkable come back stories of the year.

If only her own match turned out the same way.]

Mercedes: Why wouldn't I be, Mom? I'm on an all-expense paid two-week vacation, I get to lounge around in a mini-suite if I want, and there's so much to do on the ship. It's like groundhog's day.

Estelle: Par for the course. You've had this luxury for 10 years.

Fernando: How come you never invite us?

Mercedes: Not true. Every year, I tell you about the cruise. You always promise to come, but you never do.

[In reality, she was glad her parents didn't come. It's been awhile since her last win at Summer XXXTreme, and she didn't want to live to see another disappointing night.]

Estelle: Maybe it's best we didn't.

Mercedes: What? What's that supposed to mean? You're my biggest cheerleaders aside from my friends.

Estelle: The next overseas trip is in Rome, right?

Mercedes: Yeah.

Estelle: I'm not going.

Mercedes: To Rome? Why?

Estelle: Think of the last time I went to Italy.

Fernando: Was it as exciting as Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday and Katherine Hepburn in Summertime?

Estelle: I'm serious. I never liked heights, I never liked flights, and last time I've been to Italy, I have never come home from somewhere saying to myself, "I don't want to go back there." Just when passing people on the street I felt a very "unfriendly" vibe.

Mercedes: So you had a bad experience nine years ago. Anything can happen in cities these days. I'm thinking this has something to do with me then this trip.

Fernando:  I think what we were trying to say is we really don't want to look back at your life and wonder about all the roads you could have travelled but didn't.

Mercedes: I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.

[Mercedes stands to her feet. She looks off, thinking, smiling, then back at some notes in her notepad.]

Mercedes: I've got to go.

Estelle: Fernando, mi corazón, ven conmigo. Venga.

[With that, Mercedes closes the laptop. Another weekend on the high seas and already she wanted to return back stateside. With another overseas tour just on the horizon, she couldn't wait to be over.]


Present Day ♦ R O M E, I T A L Y

[REC•]

"I don't always visit Rome, but when I do, I never want to leave. Just look at this place!"

[The photos over social media, travel brochures, magazines and the web doesn't do one of the most beautiful cities in the world justice. Behind Mercedes is the famed Pantheon. Mercedes stands just before the fountain in front of the landmark architecture.]

"You know, I've come so close to tasting championship gold a few times in Sin City Wrestling. I've come within fingertips of capturing another championship to add to my legacy. But it was not to be two weeks ago, the memory of Summer XXXTreme still haunts me even now. Come to think of it, my success at this supercard isn't anything to write home about. Ten times I've been on that card. Only won once, and that was more than five years ago. Haven't won since. Go figure.

I've had some tough moments. The time I was part of the main event in 2016, the Elimination Chamber match? Crystal Caldwell retained the Bombshell Championship. I didn't even make it in the final three in that match. That one time teaming up with Delia Darling to regain the Bombshell World Tag Titles from The Fallen in 2015? We failed. Turned out that match would be Delia's last match in SCW. Another tag match, this time with me, Celeste North and Veronica Taylor against Devona, Amy Santino, and Jessie Salco. Yup, lost that one, too. The Mean Girls quietly disbanded after seven months and Celeste North quit as leader after three months and promptly left the company, just like that."

[Mercedes brushes away a few strands of her hair from her eyes and takes a deep breath as she sees her breath in the cold. Having to relieve these series of unfortunate events aboard the cruiseship were some of the highlights - or, rather, lowlights, of this supercard.]

"But through all that? Those moments didn't hurt like what happened two weeks ago. It wasn't as bad as in 2019 when my fourth Bombshell Roulette Championship reign ended. None of those moments haunt me then two weeks ago when I had a golden opportunity in making history one more time aboard the Sun Princess. Five years ago, I walked in as a challenger and I walked out one-half of the World Mixed Tag Team Champions, became the only Bombshell to win every championship in the women's division, and became a two-time Bombshell Grand Slam winner. Two weeks ago I walked in as a challenger and I walked out with nothing to show for it."

[A pause is met as she gathers her thoughts before raising her head again.]

"When my third Bombshell Roulette Championship reign ended in 2015, it took four years before anybody broke the records I set for that title. I had to sit there and watch people like Jessie Salco and Amy Santino trade the title like a game of hot potato.

Now in the Year of our Lord 2023, I have to live with the fact Jessie Salco lives to see a fifth title reign and another title defense and I didn't get the chance to wipe the smirk off her face. That I have to see her defend the title against Laura Phoenix - and good on her to stepping up to the plate to challenge for the title in this weekend's main event - just pisses me off. I don't need the Bombshell Roulette Championship, that title needs me. I just wanted to win the Ultimate X match just to deny Laura her first championship, and to see Jessie squirm.

"But I know I can't stay mad forever. Because this weekend with Seleana Zdunich in this Queen for a Day qualifier, I get an opportunity to compete in the Queen for a Day match. We both know what's at stake. Seleana's already been in one. I've been in three, including winning the first. But this isn't 2014, and this won't be a battle royal. I've been in the ladder match, so I know what must be done."

[A pause is met as she gathers her thoughts before raising her head again to finish her promo.]

"Now, a lot of people know the history between Seleana and I in SCW, always competitive, try to leave everything in the ring. Sunday, I'm coming for blood. I'm going to do whatever it takes, whatever is necessary to claim my spot in the Queen for a Day.

"Seleana, looks like it's you and me, sister. And it seems like you haven't had an easy time in the win column lately, which is sad and kind of pathetic at the same time. Where is The Cat and what have you done with her? Has she lost her claws?"

[Mercedes laughs and tosses her hair back.]

"I know how much this match means to you. You’ve been on this downward spiral lately, and you’re probably thinking that a win, any win at all, will somehow turn your fortunes around. The important thing is at least you’re getting up. At least you’re not giving up. And this Sunday, maybe, just maybe, fortune will smile upon you because you got me at a bad time. But make no mistake about it - you're still facing Mercedes Vargas.

"Do I still have to prove myself to you, Seleana? Is that a challenge? Because I love challenges, and I hope you’ll be able to put your money where your mouth is. I really don’t have to prove myself to you or anyone else for that matter. I’m already a proven commodity, none of my previous accomplishments - or yours - matters here.

"I am amazing. You know it, I know it, and SCW certainly knows it. I know you're not going to stay down, though you should take that offer into consideration, it would save you from being embarrassed. Or, even better, just forfeit the match.  It would save us from having to go through with this altogether. But knowing you, you’re all too willing to ignore my foolish advice. The only way you’re going to beat me is by divine intervention…

"Hope for the best, prepare for the worse. And may the odds be ever in your favor."

[Our scene fades on Mercedes waving at the camera, adding a smile as she does so and we fade to black.]

Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 19 al 25 de febrero de 2023

You ever get that feeling when no matter what you do, nothing seems to go right? It starts small, a series of unfortunate events. A razor-thin loss here, coming up short in a title match there. A second off from saving a match before the bell in a multiwoman match. Having a bad day can happen from time to time, but when those days turn into weeks or months or years? When life keeps piling it on? Sometimes the annoyances and frustrations build up that it’s hard to stay motivated when you’re stuck in neutral.

I wear many hats, but I live my life in the wrestling ring, more than I care to admit. I also travel. At some point, I’m going to be tired living life out of a suitcase. Maybe I already have. I wake up, work, go to bed, and repeat. 14 years. 10 of those years in Sin City Wrestling.

I’ve seen it all, I’ve done it all. I’m at a place in life where I’m most happy and I could go without winning another championship and still be more relevant that I am now. People come and go, give excuses, criticize the company. But while the names and faces may change, one thing is always constant: Everything, everything, is a competition. Whoever said winning isn’t everything, never knew what it is to start with. It’s not even about the will to win…everybody has that. Why do you think we show up every night in the six-sided ring? It’s certainly not to parade around the ring like pandering show ponies.

No matter how much I’ve won in my career, no matter how many matches I’ve been in, no matter how many championships, no matter how many records set, tied, or broken, the Hall of Fame inductions, I’m not winning now, so this is where I’m at. I’ve been to the mountaintop many times before, but maybe this is what it feels like to hit rock bottom.

The critics are always right. The only way to keep them quiet is by winning. I’m a pretty good winner, I’m also a sore loser. And I rub it in pretty good when I win. Proud of it, not afraid to say it. At the end of the day, when it comes down to it, while it's important to pause after a defeat, or in my case a series of defeats, I shouldn't stop. So I can’t, and I won’t. I need to climb out of this hole and get back on track.

I’m not always in tag matches, but when I am, it’s usually set up against opponents I really don’t like. Facing a member of the “prestigious” Warren clan is bad enough, but adding Seleana Zdunich makes it worse.  Dawn means well - that she honestly thinks her career will be greater than her brother or cousin is comical at best and downright sad at worse - but you have to think that her little win streak she’s been on has been to luck. That ends this weekend, she just doesn’t know it yet. As far as Seleana goes, luck won’t even save her this weekend. She’s fucked.

Besides the fact she is married to Crystal - and yet even that is questionable these days with how her wife changed her name for the millionth time - Seleana made her way to the top of Kim Pain’s hit list, through no fault of her own but was likely to happen due to something Crystal did or said or by simply existing. That’s just life when you’re married to Crystal. Too bad talent isn’t sexually transmitted. If that was the case, Seleana would be a lot further in her career than she is now.

They say that familiarity breeds contempt. True words were never spoken. Now do I hate Seleana? Hate is a strong word. Every fiber of my being hates everything about her, but that’s besides the point. That we’re standing from each other in a match in SCW for the fifth year in a row makes me sick. Was I really that evil in my past life?

Some might say I should feel a little insulted with this match, that I probably should angled for a better opponent, but to be honest with you, I'm perfectly fine with it. I'm not going to lose sleep this weekend because of The Cat. No, I don't think I will, and why? Because no matter what Seleana’s last name is, she is, was, and always will be just another marginal talent on the roster who had it too good for too long and only got by because she had enough skill to avoid sitting backstage at catering every week. That she’s still reeling from that loss to Kim Page two weeks ago, and believe me, it was tough seeing her staring up at the arena lights since her last win but in October, but maybe her better days are behind her? As a matter of fact, I wonder if she could offer me a few tips ahead of our match, but I would love to see her fall flat on her face again. And when that happens? They'll be no pity party here because I'll be too busy laughing when she gets her ass handed to her in this tag match.

My partner in Kim Pain knows her way around the ring, so I’m not complaining. As a matter of fact, I couldn’t be more happier. She and I seem to share a kindred spirit almost. We like competition, we’ve been successful practically everywhere in our respective careers, and we can mix it up with just about anyone inside the ring. But in order to make this partnership work, I need to hold down my end.

Dawn Warren is off to a hot start while Seleana, like myself, is still seeking her first win of 2023. I like to keep Kim undefeated in SCW, so I’m going to try my damndest to walk out with our heads held high and our hands raised.

If I was Dawn and Seleana, I wouldn’t want to show up to Reno, Nevada this weekend. It will be the last thing they will ever do.




[Mercedes Vargas sits leisurely on her living room couch in her Los Angeles residence. On an otherwise clear seventy-degree afternoon, the Argentine and SCW Hall of Famer kept her brunette hair firmly hidden under a fedora while sporting a t-shirt and skinny jeans. The somber mood is just as dark as the watercolor impression she stares at from afar. Irma stands back to gaze at her handiwork, a work in progress, her palette and brush at the ready.]

MERCEDES: Guess what?

IRMA: What?

MERCEDES: My washer is out again….

IRMA: Are you concerned?

MERCEDES: Yes. This is a matter of life and death. And laundry.

IRMA: Would you like to talk about it?

MERCEDES: I just did.

[Irma paints a whole forest with just a few strokes of her hand.]

IRMA: They say the average person says about 16,000 words each day. It is not yet 9 a.m. and you haven’t exceeded your limit for the day.

MERCEDES: Brevity is key.

[Irma unwraps a Twix bar and takes a bite.]

IRMA: You seem crabby.

MERCEDES: Sorry. I just had a bad couple of weeks.

IRMA: What’s really going on?

MERCEDES: I’ve been doing a lot of thinking, a lot of soul searching, and I think maybe it’s time to walk away.

IRMA: What? You already told everyone you would never walk away unless -

MERCEDES: People change their mind all the time about things. The doubters, critics and naysayers made their choice. Does that make me a loser? Does that make me just another face on the roster seemingly looking to return to their former glory? Does that mean my career burned twice as bright before lasting half as long?

IRMA: Have you heard about Napoleon?

MERCEDES: The emperor who lost France? Yeah, what about him?

IRMA: La gloria es efímera, pero laoscuridad es para siempre. Glory is fleeting, but obscurity is forever. People remember your fame, Mercedes, but once it's gone, it's forever.

MERCEDES: That's why there's the record books. I’ll never be forgotten.

IRMA: Maybe that’s why you will never walk away. You miss the crowds and the energy that comes back from them, it's hard to get that anywhere else. It’s not like you can’t go back to acting and modeling.

[She begins adding more detailing on the canvas.]

Mercedes: Is there really a difference between left and right Twix? Maybe I am all messed up since I can’t tell.

[Irma uses a script liner brush to sign her latest work, a foggy scene.]

Irma: Whichever side of a Twix you eat first, either is a good choice.

Mercedes: That…that was really deep.


Present Day ♦ S A N T A M O N I C A, C A L I F O R N I A

[REC•]

"So my last match in SCW didn’t exactly work out as I thought it would, considering what happened two weeks ago."

[Our scene opens where the last one left off as Mercedes is back again lying back in a hammock and enjoying the weather. For a moment, she sits up and positions herself to address the camera.]

"And, yes, while those poor fans will be seeing Roxi Johnson challenging Amber Ryan for the Bombshell Championship at Blaze of Glory again this year, this is my fault and I take full responsibility for that. I don’t want Roxi to tie the record for most Bombshell Championship reigns, and I’m sure Amber doesn’t want to see that happen either, let alone having to relive losing the Bombshell Championship this early in her reign.

“That being said, I have my own match to worry about this weekend. I still don't know what I did to deserve a match at Blaze of Glory much less the go-home show this weekend before the supercard, but at this point I’ll take any match I can get if only to get my first win of the new year. I just didn’t think it would be in a tag match.”

[Clicking her tongue partly out of dismay and partly out of the sheer wonder of it all, Mercedes' smile faded as she briefly shakes her head, a look of disappointment is there too.]

"Anyway, maybe this weekend will be better. I'll be honest, I didn't think I'd been on the card but here I am. Don't get me wrong, the competition won't make it easy and they're going to try their damndest to make that a reality. Despite the losses and the putdowns and all the criticism regarding my career, that's just giving me more motivation to succeed. For far too long, I've survived and thrived in Sin City Wrestling even when talent has come and gone from this company more times than I care to remember, and why? Because I haven't accepted the conventional wisdom that my competition is better than me.”

[Mercedes was always told to err on the side of caution, but such advice meant little to her. Murphy's Law has a funny way of ruining plans - even the best laid plans - but there's just no way she could mess this up, right?]

"Speaking of, this is my first time facing someone new for a change in SCW and while Dawn Warren has picked up a few notable wins, if you can call it that, I haven't exactly been catching up. She calls herself *checks notes* The Pink Puppy.”

[She musters a deadpan expression, then gives an innocent shrug.]

“You can’t make this stuff up. Among a list of grating nicknames names, imagine what Dawn’s career would be like if she took herself seriously instead of going with something that sounds like a newest addition to The Littlest Petshop. At least Seleana had the right idea. A cat would be tough to take in a fight. Sharks, bulldogs and snakes are vicious, tough and dominate their territory. A puppy is not an intimidating or cool nickname at all. How hard must it have been for Belinda and Jason calling the action or Justin saying “the pink puppy” whenever there’s a match? They are plenty of other animal names that would have worked better. 

“When you’re just starting out in wrestling and trying to make a name for yourself, you don’t have the luxury of taking a day off. Thing is, Dawn is going to have to, how you say "level up", if she's going to have any chance of walking out of this match with a victory. She didn't do too bad against Luna and somehow got past Krystal last week, but she's in way over head this time around and I think she knows this too. She's not gonna stumble across a couple of newcomers in wrestling school. She's coming up against champions, people who are used to the pressure, people who know how to pick apart people not on their game and she's so far off her game it’s not even finny. To be honest, I almost feel sorry for Dawn, and I’m being kind when I say that.”

[Mercedes shrugs her shoulders, offering a sincere look of an apology, or as close to one as she could muster.]

“We’ve seen this movie before about the plucky underdog overcoming the odds and riding off into the sunset. Life doesn't work like that. And come Sunday, Dawn and her mentor are going to find that out the hard way so I hope she enjoyes the selfies she took, the tears she cried, the hugs she got, the night of free games at the arcade because it won't be long before it's over."

[Mercedes angles her head to one side as her arrogance shines through. A small smile turns into a satisfying grin.]

“Seleana is known as one of the most underrated women on the Bombshell roster, which is puzzling because for someone with her looks, personality and pedigree as a second-generation wrestler she would be a far bigger star in SCW than she is. She will never become as big as her wife, but she still is commended for her hard work and strong effort to improve. She got a few championships to her name so it has to count for something.

“It's almost cute the way Seleana is desperately trying to get me to crumble at her badassery, like I'm supposed to be intimidated, like I'm supposed to be scared of her. Trust me, nobody is scared of Seleana Zdunich. People don’t shell out tickets to see Seleana Zdunich. Seleana and I have a storied history in SCW so she knows there's no limit to the lengths and depths I will go to bring the fight to her.“

[Mercedes points to herself. She speaks slowly, and clearly articulates her next words.]

"This here...this is what success looks like. This is what it looks like when you’ve made it. This is what it looks like when you've proven your worth in this industry. Some say age comes before beauty. I say age comes with experience and experience comes from a lot of good judgement. And I'm a good judge of character. I like to think so anyway. For all her skill, determination and will, there's nothing Seleana can ever do to get on my level. Sunday isn't going to be an audition, it's a reminder.”

[Mercedes pauses for emphasis, taking time to gesture at her checklist, complete with the names of Seleana and Dawn already added in cursive in felt-tip red Sharpie.]

"Prepare for the worst, hope for the best….”

[Mercedes stares menacing into the camera. She lowers her voice, barely a whisper.]

“And may the odds be ever in your favor."

[With that, the scene fades on Mercedes' confident smirk before she offers a heart gesture with her hands before breaking it in two.]

***Fade***

Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 4 al 11 de deciembre de 2022

And all is right with the world again.

That match with Jessie Salco sure was something, huh? She has to rank right up there as one of my toughest opponents….ever.

I’m joking, obviously. Losing to Jessie would have been embarrassing. Ever since she ended my Bombshell Roulette Championship reign many moons ago, I promised myself I would never allow Jessie to pin my shoulders to the mat again in a Sin City Wrestling ring.

Maybe she came into our match a little unprepared. Perhaps she came in and overestimated me. Maybe she just wasn’t as focused after her cousin was attacked unprovoked by Melissa. Whatever the reason, yours truly got another victory at her expense, and I can’t say I feel bad about it. And why should I? Because Jessie tried downplaying my win to secure her insecurities? I did what I had to do. She would have done the same.

Sure, beating Jessie isn’t what anyone would make a big deal much less call a statement win, but would I have made the drive to Microsoft Theatre just to finish her off in, say, thirty seconds? You know what? Regardless of how it went down, that counts as a win at the end of the night - and my name etched again in the record books. Did I mention I earned my 80th career win in SCDub and became the first wrestler to reach 50 singles wins?

Not a bad night if I say so myself.

But as far as this week...

I’m facing Zoey Lukas for the first time, and I’m all for it. See, Zoey’s not like most girls. Six foot one, one ninety five. Raw power. Agility. Tough as nails. So was Tempest. Believe me, I haven’t forgotten the morning after I stepped in the ring with her three times last year. She’s the reason I’m taking pain meds to this day.

Zoey probably didn’t enjoy losing her pay-per-view debut to Tempest last month at High Stakes and I definitely picked a bad week standing across the ring from her. I don’t stand a chance, I don’t even have a prayer. In her eyes, I’m not even an opponent.

I’m a ragdoll.

A chew toy.

A sacrifice.

A simple act of charity given by SCW.

Whatever momentum Zoey thought she had in her earlier wins in SCW vanished in thin air the moment she ended up staring up at the arena lights. She probably won’t enjoy what’s going to happen Sunday because I’m primed to ruin her Christmas holiday.

Sunday can't come soon enough. I'm waiting with baited breath for the moment I get the opportunity to step in the ring with another member of the Lukas family and wipe that condescending smirk off their face.

I've done it before, and I can do it again.

I'm going to be ready for Zoey.

Oh yes, indeed.

I’m glad we have the opener for Climax Control because there’s going be some real fireworks Sunday night.



[Even with how miserable 2022 has been for Mercedes Vargas, and even as she entered her recent match on the brink of a two-month winless drought, the Hall of Famer knew she would be alright.

Many things have changed in the Bombshells Division this year - for better or worse - but at least one thing has remained the same.

Mercedes Vargas is still Mercedes Vargas, and Jessie Salco is still Jessie Salco.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
SCW | BOMBSHELL
I must be owning stock around here, because it's starting to feel like I own Jessie Salco.

[Much as fans of the Heavy Metal Bombshell might not want to hear it, Mercedes’ retort couldn't have been more accurate. With a chance to bounce back from Salco’s win over her and Bea Barnhart in a Bombshell Roulette Championship number one contender’s match several weeks ago, Mercedes continued her mastery over her fellow Hall of Famer in singles matches, dropping Salco to 1-5 against her and a fourth straight loss. Vargas hasn’t lost to Salco since she was beat for the Bombshell Roulette Championship in April 2016 at Blaze of Glory, which seems like light years ago.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
SCW | BOMBSHELL
Like how Tom Brady always beats the Buffalo Bills or how Aaron Rodgers torments the Chicago Bears every year, I own Jessie Salco.

I was planning on maybe recreating the Aaron Rodgers moment when he was yelling at Bears fans after he ran for a game-sealing touchdown last year, but that would be adding insult to injury, especially after Jessie’s cousin was assaulted by Melissa earlier in the night.

[Unfortunately for Jessie, Mercedes might not be done with her. These rivals have shared the six-sided ring at least once since Mercedes joined SCW back in 2013.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
SCW | BOMBSHELL
I don't think this is my last one against Jessie, but I have enjoyed every single one of them. Looking forward to our future match in 2023, hopefully.

[For now, Mercedes’ future, at least her immediate one, now turns to one Zoey Lukas, her opponent Sunday on the milestone 350th episode of Climax Control, the final SCW event of 2022 and the go-home show leading up to Inception VI in mid-January, where Vargas challenges Kayla Richards for her Bombshell Internet Championship in a return match from Climax Control 346 last month, which Vargas loss by submission.

If anything, Zoey Lukas is far from a warmup match, or a pushover for that matter. She also had two things going for her: she towers over most of the Bombshells at a statuesque six feet one (the only one taller is Tempest, who Lukas lost to recently at High Stakes XII on Halloween eve, at six foot three), and she’s the younger sister of former three-time Bombshell Champion Alicia Lukas.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
SCW | BOMBSHELL
I’m going to have my work cut out for me against Zoey Lukas, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I never backed down from a challenge before, and I’m not about to start now. Zoey thinks she can exceed expectations at my expense?

[Mercedes spreads her arms wide, obviously a clear invitation and challenge.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
SCW | BOMBSHELL
Tráelo.
Bring it.



[Split screen. Mercedes is driving while Irma is on the phone from her house. Mercedes watched Irma with the dabs and strokes coming together into a nature scene. Irma continues adding paint on top of still-wet paint.]

Irma: Hey, how did your match go?

.::MERCEDES::..
Wouldn't you like to know?

.::IRMA::..
Uh, yeah, that's why I asked.

.::MERCEDES::..
I won, for the first time in a long time. It’s like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders. Colors are brighter. Coffee Is richer. The sky is bluer.

.::IRMA::..
 Funny, because you were making a big deal out of it the moment the card was announced.

.::MERCEDES::..
Even the best loses matches sometimes. Like I said, it's nothing to worry about. I’m sure I’ll be back in a title scene sooner than I think. I’m heading to San Francisco.

.::IRMA::..
 Oh?

.::MERCEDES::..
 I don’t always go to San Francisco. But when I do, I like to sing the jingle to Rice-A-Roni. Don’t judge me.

.::IRMA::..
It is better to travel hopefully than to arrive.

.::MERCEDES::..
What are you up to?

.::IRMA::..
Another art exhibition this weekend and I got a few samples I want to show off. I think I’m getting this water color ice cold. How’s the memoir coming?

.::MERCEDES::..
Slowly, but surely. Like my career.

[Irma gives a long hard look at Mercedes. She wanted to say something, but decided to hold her tongue. Getting up, she mutes her TV playing The Joy of Painting.]

.::IRMA::..
 I know this book was really hard for you. How are you dealing with everything?

.::MERCEDES::..
I don’t know. I mean, there’s still so much to tell, so much to do. I’ve been putting it off for so long. I’m coming up on another contract year, so I have a lot of decisions to mark.

.::IRMA::..
We just show you how, but you make the decisions. When you have this much power, you make the decisions. There’s beauty in every tree and bush. Just take the time to look at them.

.::MERCEDES::..
That was deep. I guess I never thought about it that way. Who told you that one?

.::IRMA::..
The Joy of Painting. Bob Ross should be a philosopher.

Present Day ♦ S A N T A M O N I C A, C A L I F O R N I A

[REC•]

[Cloudy skies. Mercedes Vargas, hidden behind a pair of sunglasses, is standing in front of the Paul Smith wall, the famous big pink wall where people post photos and selfies. Mercedes is shown thumbing through some glossy magazine. As if on cue, the SCW Hall of Famer looks up and unconsciously puts the magazine away and leans over towards the camera, grinning. Her hair has clearly been done up here too, messy curls pinned back in a half updo and ordained with a black rose tucked on the left side of her hair.]

“So, my recent match two weeks ago was a success. I'm the number one contender for the Bombshell Internet Championship again. And it's not like I really need it because let's face it, I can get a title shot for any title against anyone and at any time, but it's a nice feeling all the same. In just a few weeks, it's going to be me and the great and powerful Kayla Richards in Stockton, California. But that’s in five weeks.”

[Mercedes holds up five fingers.]

“The date is set and the time has come. This weekend, all roads leads to San Francisco, California for Climax Control 350. Climax Control 350 is a landmark for Sin City Wrestling. Climax Control 350 marks 350 episodes of yours truly bringing smiles to your faces. I’ve been known for making memorable moments and history over the years. I've been on the milestone 75th, 100th 125th, 175th, 200th, 250th, and 300th episodes of Climax Control. Did you think I would miss this night? Not for nothing would I miss this night.

“When I said last week that I wanted a match for the milestone 350th episode of Climax Control, I have to say I was surprised when I came across this weekend‘s card. Not so much that I’m opening the show - wherever I am on the card is required viewing - but that I get none other than Alicia’s younger sister. The fact that Zoey has beaten the likes of Jessie Salco and Samantha Marlowe says a lot about her talent in the ring. Zoey is related to one of the very best professional wrestlers not just in Sin City Wrestling but in the game today, and for good reason. Alicia is celebrated in SCW for what she’s accomplished: a three-time Bombshell Champion; she once held the records for the longest singles reign and most singles defenses; the first woman and one of only two to win both Wrestler and Woman of the year. Again, for good reason.”

[Mercedes raises a finger in a wait-a-minute gesture as a smile crosses her face.]

“But, see, Mercedes Vargas has never been known as a slouch, or a wallflower, or someone who backs away from a challenge. I live for matches like these, Zoey. Because no matter how high the stakes, no matter the odds, no matter how intense the pressure, I always answer the bell. Come Sunday, the world will be watching and waiting and wondering if you can pull off an encore performance. And at the end of the night, they will have their answer.

“There are few better in the women’s division than yours truly so I must have done something right to earn this match. Every person who calls themselves a wrestling fan owe to themselves to get in the building to witness it all go down. Climax Control 350, the final SCW event of 2022 and the first time yours truly, Mercedes Vargas, will step in the ring with Zoey Lukas.

“It will be the first time, and the only time, I will once again make history by accomplishing something no woman has done before or since. And that is beating Alicia and Zoey Lukas in an SCW ring.

“You love to see it.

“Come for the action, stay for the drama. Don't blink, you might miss something.”

[Mercedes fluffs and straightens out her hair, lowering her voice just above a whisper.]

"Estar preparado para lo peor, esperar lo mejor. Y que la suerte está siempre en su favor.”
"Prepare for the worst, hope for the best. And may the odds be ever in your favor."

***Fade***

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
SCW | BOMBSHELL
OK, I’m going to say something I would gladly die on a hill: Roxi Johnson was a boring Bombshell Champion.

The women’s division was boring having Roxi as Bombshell Champion because there are many other great women on the roster, not just her. The commentators built her up as someone who represented the division, but I know there are other great contenders out there who can do that and better. And better.

[Mercedes raises her index finger for a moment, considering the thought then shakes her head.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
SCW | BOMBSHELL
Don’t get me wrong, I wasn't rooting for Masque. Roxi was nothing special in my eyes. She had her moments, but the only reason she she won matches is because her opponents made mistakes and she made them pay for it. Out of all the defenses she had, I'm the only one who made her work in retaining. I took her to the limit. Masque took Roxi off her game, got in her head, made her make mistakes, got her frustrated and it was wonderful to see. Credit where it’s due, Masque had focus, a good gameplan, and that made the difference.

Far as I’m concerned, this needed to happen. Now that we're saved from the straightjacket that was Roxi’s reign, it's now a level playing field and there can be other champions, which is good for business and the division as a whole.

I said Roxi’s reign would be mercifully over, and it turns out I was right.

Happy days are here again.

CAMERAMAN: So will you be sending Masque de Lune a Hallmark card this year?

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
SCW | BOMBSHELL
If I’m not caught up by The Rapture by then, I’ll get back to you on that.

[She puts her match with Candy into perspective.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
SCW | BOMBSHELL
Beating Candy at Violent Conduct? I couldn’t be happier. She can go back to her stupid glitter for all I care. Nothing is going to dampen my mood after the supercard, and you want to know why? Because I finally have her name on my checklist.

[Mercedes presents her clipboard and sure enough, it’s been updated with Candy’s name in bold letters followed by a check mark.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
SCW | BOMBSHELL
I think I'm going to be enjoying this match for a long, long, time. You love to see it.


[A gym. Several training equipment of all sorts surround the facility, from the modern to the highly advanced. In the center of the white-washed and wood tiled room is a wrestling/boxing ring.

[The gym is practically empty, although it’s late in the afternoon. However, one person is actually getting a workout today, and that person happens to be none other than Mercedes Vargas seen here in a kickboxing training session with a partner.]

.::ETHAN::..
How did it go?

.::MERCEDES::..
Not bad. Well, better than I had hope.

.::ETHAN::..
It's progress, at least.

[Jab, Cross, Uppercut, Duck.

Mercedes keeps in mind the workout combination.]

[The camera turns pulls back and we see for the first time Ethan, who was standing by with Thai pads taking in the contact.]

.::MERCEDES::..
What? No witty remark? Nothing clever to say?

.::ETHAN::..
I’m trying to be on my best behavior. Besides, you got a match this weekend.

.::MERCEDES::..
Don’t remind me.

[The trainer feeds a straight right. Mercedes her head outside to slip the punch; and then, follows up with a left hook to the body.]

.::MERCEDES::..
Masque is good. But what doesn’t kill me makes me stronger.

.::ETHAN::..
I know you're trying your damnedest to be tough... but the truth is, you're terrified.

.::MERCEDES::..
I can't hide anything from you, can I? I guess I’m not a very convincing liar. I'm fucking terrified. And you would be too. Did I mention this is life or death?

.::ETHAN::..
There's no turning back now. She seems...dangerous.

.::MERCEDES::..
She’s perfectly safe! Safe-ish.

[Next is a kick, punch combination. She does this in a rhythmic approach with no pause or break in between strikes.]

.::ETHAN::..
Merce, she almost killed Amber Ryan. Probably would have done the same to Team Hero if she had the chance. Now that she holds the top, who’s to stop her?

.::MERCEDES::..
Me.

[Mercedes goes with a straight left punch, along with a right kick. Then, right away go into a straight right punch, with a straight left punch, into a left back kick.  She does this in an endless combination and with smoothness and fluidity.]

.::MERCEDES::..
I’m not going to be womanhandled by Masque. If she’s going to leave still champion, she won’t need to kill me.

[Mercedes goes with a roundhouse kick, which her trainer ducks just in time.]

.::MERCEDES::..
But she’s going to have come pretty damn close.

.::ETHAN::..
I think that’s enough practice for today.


Las Vegas, Nevada
10:20 PM

O brave new world that has such people in it!

[The camera shows a Porsche 911 driving through the streets of Las Vegas. Along the way we see various people working and living their lives. The car drives past buildings, suburbs, a playground, a lake, and more. The voice over continues.]

Las Vegas, Nevada. It's called by many names - The Gambling Capital of the World. Sin City. The Jewel of the Desert. Or just simply, Vegas.

[A series of quick cuts showing the outside exterior of Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino at night, a up-close shot of a monitor from a virtual slot machine, a crowd full of people dancing to music inside Studio 54, and a newlywed couple renewing their vows at a wedding chapel as an Elvis impersonator looks on.]

To those who live here, it's home. To those who visit, it's a paradise. For me, though?

[We cut to inside the moving car. Mercedes Vargas is in the passenger side listlessly turning the pages of a magazine as Jorge, her brother, is behind the wheel while bobbing his head to the car radio.]

It's an almost common occurrence. After being overseas for over two months, I’m glad to finally be back in Sin City.

[illuminated skyscrapers, neon signs, and various hotels line every street as Mercedes looks out at tourist enjoying the night.]

After all, what’s not to like about being in Vegas?


Present Day ♦ L A S V E G A S, N E V A D A

[REC•]

[Our scene opens to a visual of a parish at the end of a boulevard, just at the break of dawn. A gust of wind sweeps debris around these orphaned streets before the camera pans on  Mercedes Vargas sat on the steps of the quaint house of worship. She was conservatively dressed wearing a black and white high-collared blouse and a knee length black skirt.

“Here is the church. Here is the steeple. Open the doors and…wait where are the people?”

[Mercedes gives off a nonchalant shrug.]

“Never let it be said that the good paying fans at every SCW event aren't thoroughly entertained. Look what happened at Violent Conduct. Sure, there was the fire breathers, the trapeze artists, the magicians, the lion tamers, those people who get shot out of cannons, a picture show or two. Pretty sure they really had the ooohs and aaaahs going during the freak show portion during the supercard. Oh, and every title changed hands - who had that one on their bingo card - Oh, but this vaudeville show isn't over yet. This weekend, the best is saved for last.

“Sunday night, the people will stand in line, get their tickets, and pack out Gold Coast Hotel and Casino for a Climax Control they will never forget. Come one, come all! Hurry, hurry, step right up! It's the greatest show in town. Seven acts under one roof for a single admission. And for one night only, see the one they call Masque de Lune completely annihilate another no-name, no-talent Bombshell right here in Las Vegas, Nevada! Guaranteed to be amazed. Don't let this moment pass you by!”

[Mercedes keeps a level expression but we can tell she’s also having a little fun with this.]

“They have billed the main event as a singles contest, but read your program again. They won't be expecting a match. No! What they will get is a public execution live on television. Looks like yours truly is first in line to challenge Masque de Lune for the Bombshell Championship and I’ll be honest here, I can’t wait. When Masque beat Roxi in Mumbai, India, she became the one in Roxi’s 8-1. Bye-bye undefeated streak, bye-bye title reign.”

[Mercedes hasn’t completely forgotten when she last challenged Roxi a few weeks ago at the go-home show. The Argentine only got more scathing from there on the now former champion.]

“I guess that means Roxi learned something on two week ago. Because when you set yourself up as untouchable like she was, the fall is going to be that much more painful when she realizes that she was beaten inside of the ring. 1-2-3.”

[Mercedes holds up three fingers to remind everyone of the humiliating defeat Roxi had suffered against the Bombshell newcomer.]

“Roxi had a good run. But that gut feeling she had, that uneasy feeling she was talking about ahead of her match? It wasn’t butterflies, it was the pure dread that she was going to lose the Bombshell Championship to someone that was much better than her. Roxi should have known better the moment Masque was named number one contender that her fate was sealed.

“Of course, now, things are different. I know a lot of the Bombshells are wishing they were in my shoes right now - well, come to think of it, I’m sure if they had to face Masque, most of the girls would probably call in sick - but let’s face it, when it comes to being the One-Woman Dynasty of SCW, they have pretty big shoes to fill.

My career is almost beyond comparison, easily, easily, one of the most incredible in SCW history. That can’t be argued.

“So after the Violent Conduct event, I’m sure Mark Ward and Christian Underwood met in their little office and I wish I was a fly in the room to hear what they were saying. I can imagine that conversation going, “Well, hot damn. That was a great main event. Now we have to talk about Masque’s first defense. We need to put her across the ring from somebody who will challenge her, somebody who will take her to the limit, somebody who the fans want to see her tangle with.’

“Well, somebody has to face Masque for her first defense. Don't know if she was waiting for her match with Roxi in the rematch this weekend, but I've never backed down from a challenge, and I'm not about to start now. Competition makes me stronger, and I like to think I play well to my strengths. Masque de Lune versus Mercedes Vargas? I don't think anyone could say no to that. In my eyes, that’s no punishment, that's a dream match. As far as the main event, it’s not because I think I deserve it; and it’s not because I think that I have another opportunity to make history; it’s because I’m going to finally put to bed and put to rest any doubt that Mercedes Vargas can be world champion in Sin City Wrestling. The Bombshell Championship means something in the hands of The One-Woman Dynasty.

“So as Climax Control 241 is fast approaching, I’m sure there’s a lot of you out there wondering, ‘Hey, Mercedes. How is your match with Masque de Lune so special? How will it stand out from the great matches from Violent Conduct, especially that main event, the matches Sunday at Climax Control or any of the matches you’ve had in your SCW career, now 200 plus matches and counting?’

“Well, one one side there’s Masque. She’s cold, calculating, and someone who will stop at nothing, and even go beyond that, to take out every person standing in their way. Pretty soon, there will be no one left. She’s lost only twice, Roxi’s the only woman to pin her shoulders to the mat, and Masque has defeated a good third of the roster, including our Paragon of Justice. Masque is practically the second coming of Amber Ryan, only she’s wearing a mask and have a prosthetic hand.

“And then on the other side, there’s little ole me. Nine-year experience in SCW, two-time SCW Hall of Famer, a 14-time title holder, the most decorated wrestler in SCW history, the first ever Queen for a Day, the one who has wrestled the most overall and pay-per-view matches, the one with the longest consecutive pay-per-view appearance streak going. I could go on.

Masque is having the career of a lifetime. She won her first championship, she put Amber Ryan on the shelf, and, most recently, she finally beat Roxi Johnson and captured the Bombshell Championship in one fell swoop - and this is just in her first seven months.

I’ve been called a lot of names in SCW. Arrogant, conceited, overrated, selfish. A pushover isn’t one of them. When people look at what I’ve done in my career, they are filled in awe and wonder. Even now as I’m still breaking records and winning championships. Speaking of, it’s been a while since I last held one around my waist, but I’m planning to right the ship and make that a reality. Go ahead and ask the women I’ve beat for championships. The list is pretty long.

“Something you’ll notice about Masque is that she loves the element of surprise. It’s how she got to Amber, it’s how she got to Keira and Roxi. Now that Masque is champion, she’s now the prey. Not knowing who will come for her next, or in this case, who will come for her first.  Against any other opponent, the only way Masque loses that title is someone starting a Change.org petition. Come Sunday, I’m going to make sure Masque’s first defense will also be her last.

“The sky is the limit. That Masque reached it in so little time is impressive. Sunday, I have nothing to lose because I have no limits. On that note, I know how much Masque is looking forward to crushing another talent under her boot. It must be nice to know that even after coming off a convincing win at the recent pay-per-view, there's always another martyr coming her way. The one thing I am not is a martyr. So don't ask me for whom the bell tolls, because if it is for me, I'll answer it. I will not go gentle into that good night, at least not without a fur coat, boots, and a baseball hat. The forecast is supposed to be below fifty, I heard."

[Her tone is overly enthusiastic.]

“Masque’s reputation proceeds her. My reputation for overcoming the odds, even more so. And since we'll be in Vegas, that is some pretty long odds and a sure bet that she’ll be favored. I've been fortunate to have faced a lot of crazies in my career to know that unstable people are probably the most dangerous opponent staring across from you in the ring. After all, people fear what they don't understand. You can't define something that can't be defined. But then, you can't break something that can't be broken. I cannot be broken, Masque. Beaten, yes, but not broken. You pride yourself on intimidation, mind games, and fear, and there are more than a few who are spooked by you once in a while. I'm not one of them. There's nothing that you can conjure up in the dark recesses of your mind that will even make me bat an eye. So you put on your best top hat, make sure that mascara doesn't run, and you best bring every one of your parlor tricks, sweetheart. I’m coming to take away YOUR title and if I have to rip off that prosthetic hand and beat you with it, I will.

“I’ve had a few title opportunities slip through my fingers this year, I’m a little surprised this match fell in my lap. You have to take opportunities when you get them, so here I am. Some people are probably thinking that I'm only in this match to make Masque look good, or it could be that this match is only important because I'm in it. To me, it doesn't matter whether this is a dark match, the opening match, the mid-card, or the main event, just so long as it ends with Masque getting pinned or submitted.

Last time we met, nobody won. That won’t be good enough this time.

But that doesn't mean this can't be a one-woman show. Puedo bailar, puedo cantar, toco un poco el piano. Hago de todo.

If Masque wants a performance, I'll give her one that she will never forget. One night. One match. One last opportunity.

That’s all I have left. And that’s one of the many reasons why I can't fail again. Twice I was so close and yet so far. Twice I've let this opportunity slipped from my fingers. The third time isn't going to be the charm, the third time isn't where I'm going to strike out. The third time is where I'm going to win and I'm prepared to go at any lengths to have that title around my waist. I see the glass as half-full.

In the eyes of others, seeing Mercedes Vargas as the new Sin City Wrestling Bombshell Champion seems impossible, some would say even improbable.

I'm going to make that inevitable.

Come for the action, stay for the drama. Don't blink, you might miss something.

"Estar preparado para lo peor, esperar lo mejor."
"Prepare for the worst, hope for the best."

[Mercedes fluffs and straightens out her hair, lowering her voice just above a whisper.]

"Y que la suerte está siempre en su favor.”
“And may the odds be ever in your favor."

***Fade***

Endeavor XLIV

Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 7 al 14 de agosto de 2022

Before I begin, shout out to Crystal Zdunich on an amazing eight-year career in Sin City Wrestling. Crystal got fired this past Sunday on Climax Control to the surprise, shock, and utter horror of only three of her fans but this was pretty much an easy decision made by the top brass, and I can’t say I blame them. That’s not to say that Crystal hasn’t earned everything she’s accomplished in those eight years - and she’s been a lightning rod of controversy for most of it - but whatever people may say about her, there’s no doubt in my mind that she’s earned her status as a Hall of Famer and a bonafide legend in the six-sided ring.

Crystal being fired is the real world equivalent of Donald Trump no longer being President. You knew it was coming, you just didn’t know when.

Our long national nightmare is over.

A lot of you are probably saying, “well damn, Mercedes, how could you be saying that about Crystal when the two of you have traveled down the road together and have been fierce frienemies for over a decade? You two were even part of the same induction class in the SCW Hall of Fame!” Not to say that this point isn’t valid, but upon realizing that I just find it funny that the same person who inducted Crystal into the Hall of Fame is the same one who inducted her into another one - former SCW talent.

This is why it’s never a good idea to get on the bad side of Christian Underwood.

Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.

Anyway, to business.

They say opportunity knocks only once, though I have my doubts about that because lately it seems like opportunity knocks all the time for some people in SCW. I’m not knocking it, no pun intended, I’m just wondering when some of that is going to fall off my table.

I guess my prayers were answered because such an opportunity is waiting for me this weekend. But it’s not just about getting an opportunity, it’s about seizing it. And I’m about to carpe diem in less than a week at Climax Control. I found out that next week I’ll be challenging for the Bombshell World Championship at the go-home show before Violent Conduct. Though if I don’t beat Seleana Zdunich this weekend, then my match becomes a triple threat - and I really don’t want Seleana of all people shoehorning her way into MY title match. This unintentionally highlights a problem. When would the official number one contender in any sport be facing someone who has already had three title matches this year and had zero wins? Not in boxing, not in MMA, and perhaps not even in pro wrestling. Seleana should be building herself up with credible wins, not just getting title matches on a whim.

Even if by some divine miracle Seleana gets past me this weekend, does anyone think she stands a chance winning the Bombshell Championship, let alone beating Roxi for it? Remember, she already failed once against Roxi for the title way back in April at Climax Control 329, and in the main event no less. She failed to beat Roxi during her third reign two years ago, which was also the main event of the night. Never mind the fact that Roxi owns Seleana in SCW anyway as she’s beaten her at every point of her career - singles, tag, and multiwoman.

So why does Seleana gets to have this opportunity, especially after coming off competing for a title just two weeks ago? You can’t tell me that my match with Masque de Lune wasn’t more impressive than Seleana’s predictable epic fail in the Bombshell Internet Championship battle royal or that she defeated her estranged wife at Summer XXXTreme. I mean, seriously? It’s not fair, it’s not right, and I deserve better than this.

Seleana has found herself in a situation where she is simply at the right place, at the right place at the right time. And I can't really fault her for what she did. Maybe Christian Underwood calls it initiative. Well, I'm sure there would have been several Bombshells who would have jumped at the chance for a handout like Seleana is getting, but me? I'm not one of those people. Because I take pride in knowing that there isn't a single soul on this roster that can take me out. Many have tried, none has succeeded. I take pride in knowing that I've earned everything I've worked for not just in my career, but in this company.

So yeah, Seleana is the right girl, at the right place, at the right time. And this happens to be my Groundhog’s Day moment. I already faced Seleana three times this year alone, and I’m just about sick of this and sick of her. I’m almost sure that Seleana is going to have extra motivation this weekend following Crystal getting fired - or maybe she’ll be the complicit mail order bride she’s been known for since they got married. I know she’s hurting, I know she’s bitter, angry, and miserable, and I don't blame her one bit.

Honestly, I really don’t care.

This is going to be a bad week – for Seleana. And if I were her, and I'm sooooooo glad I'm NOT, I would forfeit the match, I wouldn't even show up. As a matter of fact, I wouldn't even BE in the same city we'll be in this weekend. But if she does, if Seleana does show up, if her music hits and she walks down that ramp and she enters that six-sided ring, I promise you, I swear to you, that it will not be a pleasant experience.

I hope Seleana knows what’s coming to her. Whether she likes me or hates me, she will respect me. And if she doesn't? Well, I'm going to have to beat the respect out of her. And when I kick her ass this weekend on Climax Control, you're all going to want to be tuning in.

I’ve got unfinished business in two weeks, and I prefer to have my alone time with Roxi Johnson. This is what I’ve been waiting for. It’s what I’ve worked for. This is what all the sacrifices are for. So Seleana can forget about another title match. For her to get to that, I'd have to move over.

And I'm gonna stand right here.



So, it’s been three weeks now since the SCW overseas tour of India. For the most part, India has been been interesting, for the most part.

What else can I say, I’m a fish out of water, especially one who is still adjusting to the time difference. I’m still thinking it’s 9AM when it’s 6 pm.

[Mercedes Vargas steps out the balcony of her hotel room, cup of coffee in hand, looking down at the city below.]

MERCEDES: Good morning, my neighbors!

NEIGHBOR: HEY! FUCK YOU!

MERCEDES: YES! YES! FUCK YOU TOO!

At least the neighbors are friendly, so there’s that.

LATER…MUCH LATER

“Well, hello! How are you?”

“Well, I’m fine! How are you? And, might I add, who are you?”

[Mercedes is invited into an Indian family home. This was already getting awkward just from conversation from the man who she was talking to at the moment.]

Mercedes: Who am I?

Man: Am I supposed to know?

[Mercedes’ expression changes from happy to crestfallen in two seconds flat.]

Mercedes: I’m Mercedes Vargas. You know, international extraordinaire, multiple-time champion. Most talented wrestler in Sin City Wrestling?”

[Even Mercedes efforts of jogging the man’s memory proved fruitless. The man and his family nod their head.]

Man: Sin City Wrestling. I’ve heard about that company. Very good wrestlers.

Mercedes: What’s this?

[The man takes out an open notepad and hand it to Mercedes, whose face lights up.]

Mercedes: You want my autograph? Sure, no problem. Most people know that I am must-see TV. You are lucky that I took time out of my busy schedule to do this.

Man: Um...I don't even watch your matches.

«Mercedes nearly dropped the pen out of her hand.»

Mercedes: Now, why don't you want my autograph?

Woman: Because you’re mean, and treat everyone like dirt. That’s not positive behavior for my children.

Mercedes: Now where did you hear that?

Woman: Candy.

Yeah, that was my second guess. Of course it would be Candy. Poisoning the minds of children since 2019, even in reruns. This is exactly how rumors get started. Now this family will never shut up about it! Looks like I’ll have to do some damage control. Damn you, Candy!

Mercedes: Oh, that's just a silly rumor. This was someone's idea of making me look bad, that my name is being dragged through the mud, that they're trying to ruin my reputation. I'm a human being, damn it! My name has value!

Little girl: What does 'rumor' mean?

Mercedes: Don't you learn anything?

Man: She’s home-schooled.

[Mercedes' face contorts briefly in a show of mock sympathy.]

Mercedes: My condolences.

Little Girl: Do you know Candy?

Mercedes: Know her? I’m her sister. Why do you ask?

Woman: Really? I didn’t know she had a sister. Could you get me Candy’s autograph after the show? It's the only one I don't have of the Bombshells who matter.

[Mercedes pretends to concentrate on her crossword, though she is truly hurt by this.]

Mercedes: Trust me, you don't want an autograph from Candy. Her and kids don't go well together.

Oh, if only they knew. If only they knew of the horror stories and what Candy does to those poor, innocent souls, they would be scarred for life. I bet those kids were, too. There’s only so much glitter a person can take. The little girl really should ask for another Bombshell’s autograph. Candy makes Twisted Sister look like Joan of Arc by comparison.

Woman: What about Seleana Zdunich? She says you’re the worst person ever.

Mercedes: You're going to believe her over me? That’s not fair. Just because someone's said something about you doesn't mean it's true. Besides, they've got nothing better to do than sullen my good name. You know what? No autograph for you!

[The man asked Mercedes to take a picture and then introduces her to his whole family. To say that being invited to an Indian family wasn’t one of the more special experiences in India would be an understatement. Mercedes was glad to check this moment off her to-do list.



Present Day ♦ K O L K A T A, I N D I A

[REC•]

[Here in Brahmapur, a neighborhood in Garia, Kolkata, we find Mercedes Vargas sat on a curb. Walls covered in interesting abstract art are on either side of her.]

“Not sure what’s melting down faster. Our glaciers due to global warming or Todd Williams the morning after he realized his ex-wife got fired and that he’s royally fucked now that Christian Underwood can do with him as he damn well please because he’s under contract.

“At least somebody is standing up for Crystal in her time of need. Now, look, I’m not a therapist, or play one on TV, but for someone who is supposedly married, don’t you think Crystal’s moral support should come from her current spouse instead of someone who used to be part of her life? Whatever happened to in sickness and in health, for richer for poorer? Crystal is no longer the breadwinner in her household, so it’s up to Seleana to hold down the fort, and I don’t think she’s even capable of doing that.”

[An unapologetic shake of her head follows.
With the shocking news of Crystal’s dismissal from the company, maybe the situation could have been handled better, but the Mercedes still believed that this cautionary tale was the shot in the arm the division sorely needed.]

“As far as her SCW career goes, I am not here to take anything away from Seleana. The Cat isn’t just a nickname, this is a woman who has scratched and clawed her way to a somewhat respectable place in the Bombshells Division. Not a bonafide star, but just above the gatekeepers like Jessie Salco. She is a proud former Bombshell World Champion…. who fluked her way to victory no thanks in part to Crystal costing Alicia Lukas the title. Seleana is also a former Bombshell Roulette Champion, just holding that title for over three months, but only got the title match in the first place thanks to Crystal using her Queen for a Day matchmaking powers. Seleana has won two championships and has just north of 30 wins in her career, though she’s been with SCW for four years. Know where I was after my first four years in?”

[Mercedes begins counting on her fingers while still keeping her gaze at the camera.]

“A Bombshell Triple Crown and Grand Slam champion, an overall nine-time title holder, exactly 40 wins to my name, a two-time Bombshell World Champion, and the first-ever Queen for a Day.

“Do you see where this is going? As good as Seleana is, she always leaves you wanting something more, always leaves that door open for someone to be that much better than her.
I’m not just that damn good, I’m not just better, I’m simply the best. At the age of 42, I’m at the latter end of my career. That isn’t lost on me. But if age is just a number, I must be magnificent. I’m a two-time Hall of Famer, the most decorated talent in the entire company, and still the only Bombshell to win every championship available in the division, including the World Mixed Tag Team Championship. I continue to win championships, break records, set milestones, and add to my legacy. I’m one of the greatest that this company has to offer, and it doesn’t matter where I am on any card, for any championship, at any time. Why? Because I’m the One-Woman Dynasty of Sin City Wrestling - there is no substitute or comparison.”

[Mercedes smiles at the camera, sliding her sunglasses over her head.]

“This Sunday, Seleana, you and I will be seeing each other once again, if only for someone else’s amusement. But that makes only one of us because when I saw the card for this weekend and found out about this match, I was not amused, more like disgusted. Still am. Probably won’t change before, during, or after our match Sunday either.

“It’s been three years since you last held the Bombshell Championship, you’ve been chasing that title for the past three years since you lost it - and you won a grand total of never. Five opportunities in three years, Seleana. I’m willing to bet when you heard about this match you ran and told all your friends, so I know how much this match means to you. Except, you know how they say that if you follow your dreams you’ll succeed? Don’t ever follow that advice because sometimes when you wake up, Mercedes Vargas is your reality.

“Do you remember what happened last time we faced each other, Seleana? I sure do. You were calling for the Kattoga, the Asai DDT, to end the match. But in an instant, by some cruel twist of fate, you ended up getting dropped on your head with the Black. Rose. Overdrive. And on Sunday, it’s going to end the same exact way that it ended nearly two months ago in Tucson, Arizona.

“What you need to realize is that when Crystal got fired last Sunday, it was her own fault why she’s now out of a job. Crazy people do things to tempt fate while stupid people do things that seal their fate. And now that your wife is gone from SCW, and hopefully gone for good, Christian isn’t going to stop there. He’s not only going to make her Todd’s life a living hell, oh no.”

[Mercedes lifts her hand and wags her index finger accompanied with a devious little smile.]

“He’s going to make your life one too. He did it once before.”

[It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. Pretty sure that moment in time was a repressed memory Seleana would not want to revisit. Christian Underwood was notorious for getting revenge on anyone who dared crossed him, real or imagined. Mercedes almost felt sorry for what was about to happen to Seleana. Almost.]

“And if there is anyone who is bona fide, certified, and qualified to be the first one to send you on your way to joining Crystal in unemployment, Christian found the right one. I’ll be more than happy to do just that. And this time, Seleana, I’ll be crossing off your name for the last time.”

[Mercedes reaches over for her checklist and slowly, methodically, takes a red Sharpie and draws a line through Seleana’s name.]

"Estar preparado para lo peor, esperar lo mejor."
"Prepare for the worst, hope for the best."

[Mercedes fluffs and straightens out her hair and then slowly cross her arms. She pauses for effect, lowering her voice just above a whisper.]

"Y que la suerte está siempre en su favor.”
“And may the odds be ever in your favor."

***Fade***

Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 19 al 26 de junio de 2022

So, here’s a fun fact for you: 2022 makes it 13 years of wrestling for me, nine of them here in Sin City Wrestling. I’ve held 25 championships total in six different promotions. More than half of those championships I’ve won right here in SCDub. I guess you can say wherever I am, success always seems to follow, no?

The trials, the triumphs, the injuries, the roadblocks…they were all worthwhile because it made me the person I am today. No matter what happens this point on in my career, no matter what anyone says about me - behind my back, to my face, or in front of a camera - I’m not better than anyone else, but nobody is better than me. Nobody. See, because, everyone knows exactly who Mercedes Vargas is. They know that I'm not going to back down from anything or anyone. They know that I'm the most hated woman in the Bombshells division. My reputation precedes me. My time will come to fight for a championship, and you can bet that I'll be champion once again. When I'm ready, I'm going to be coming back for the Bombshell Roulette Championship, and I plan on walking out of Summer XXXTreme the next champion.

So last week I had to face the wife of an SCW Hall of Famer. This week, I have to face the wife of an SCW Hall of Famer.

Life is crazy sometimes.

Anyway, Melissa is just getting into the wrestling business and if she had to be trained by somebody, you can’t go wrong with Goth. There’s a reason why he’s a bonafied legend in the AWA and SCW. He is THAT good. Will that translate to instant success for Melissa in the Bombshells Division, time will tell. But she’s off to a good start. She didn't do too bad in her last matches, which explains why she’s still undefeated. I think she's in way over head this time around and maybe she knows this too. She's not gonna stumble across a couple of warmup acts this weekend. She's coming up against a multiple-time champion, someone who is pretty much used to the pressure, someone who knows how to pick apart an opponent not on their game and make them pay for it. To be honest, I almost feel sorry for Melissa. Almost because this is the first time she is not favored to win a match. She’s now the underdog having to overcome the odds, and the odds won’t be in her favor.

But maybe luck smiles on her Sunday. I want Melissa to try her luck, see what happens, because to get past me takes a little bit of luck and a whole lot of talent. Every woman worth their salt knows that while I love to talk, I can back it up. Melissa has backed her words before, so I hope she backs up those words one more time because other than pointing out my championships and accomplishments every chance I get, there's nothing I enjoy more than proving people wrong. I’ve been doing that for nearly a decade. Pretty sure no one can argue against that track record.

Why have I been so successful for so long? Because experience tells you what to do, confidence allows you to do it.

Someday, you'll understand.

I’m a magician. I cut Ms. Jon down to size, I made Alicia Lukas’ undefeated streak disappear, and I didn’t need nine lives to beat The Cat.

For my next trick: I’m going to tame The Lioness.

Say abracadabra!

 

L O S A N G E L E S • C A L I F O R N I A

[There is no such thing as a working vacation, at the very least, a working vacation where one actually gets to enjoy time off. For Mercedes Vargas, finding out that the next Climax Control was returning to Arizona was, to put it mildly, a godsend. Short trips are always a good thing. Here Mercedes spends an afternoon at Madame Monsieur, a sidewalk bakery and cafe on a busy Downtown Los Angeles street with modest tourists, Mercedes is finding the perfect opportunity to finish up the Sunday's Los Angeles Times crossword.]

MERCEDES: I’m not buying that you think you know me better than I know you, Richie.

[Ricardo sits across from her, seemingly enjoying the challenge.]

RICARDO: I’m buying, and I have a bridge to sell you. I know that you indulge in Wheat Thins. What’s that about?

[Mercedes fills in a clue to one question before looking up to answer.]

MERCEDES: Not impressed. Everyone knows that I enjoy Wheat Thins. What else you got?

RICARDO: You do crosswords in pen - blue ink.

MERCEDES: That’s too easy.

RICARDO: You never had a wrestling match on your birthday, and you drink Shirley Temples or Pina coladas.

MERCEDES: Are you psychic?1

RICARDO: I might be. You went shopping today, right?

MERCEDES: Yeah, and?

RICARDO: Made out a grocery list?

MERCEDES: Uh-huh.

RICARDO: Probably went straight to the express lane - 20 items or less?

MERCEDES: Oh, you’re good. Next thing you’re going to tell me is you know everything on my list.

RICARDO: $10 says I can name five.

MERCEDES: How many chances do you want?

RICARDO: Three guesses.

[Mercedes thinks about it, then smiles. She reaches out to shake Ricardo’s hand.]

MERCEDES: Deal.

RICARDO: Grapes.

MERCEDES: Yes.

RICARDO: Greek yogurt.

MERCEDES: Yes.

RICARDO: Colombian coffee

MERCEDES: Three out of three.

RICARDO: Duct tape.

[Mercedes nods, holding up four fingers as well.]

MERCEDES: And the last thing?

RICARDO: Orange juice.

MERCEDES: Wrong. I didn’t buy orange juice. I win!

RICARDO: I got two chances left.

[Mercedes’ face is crestfallen.]

RICARDO: Pineapple juice.

[Ricardo holds out his hand.]

MERCEDES: Singles, fives, or a ten?

RICARDO: Thanks for playing.

 

Present Day ♦ L O S A N G E L E S • C A L I F O R N I A

[REC•]

“Happy first week of Summer!”

[Our scene opens where Mercedes Vargas is seen in the backyard of her residence relaxing in a hammock while eating an apple and enjoying the pristine weather that only Southern California can provide. For a moment, the two-time SCW Hall of Famer sits up and positions herself to address the camera.]

“It’s that time again for sand, surf, and sun. I don’t think you would see much of that in Arizona, though. I, for one, can't wait for Climax Control and my match with Melissa. Hopefully, I can continue my winning streak, though, but I have a sneaky feeling I’m going to have my work cut out for me Sunday.

“Oh, and speaking of Sunday…”

[Mercedes quickly holds up an index finger in a wait-a-minute gesture.]

“Is it me, or does anyone else find it strange that three of the four women in the Ultimate X Over the Pool match at Summer XXXTreme in three weeks also compete this weekend at the go-home show? Kat Jones, our reigning and defending Bombshell Roulette Champion, faces the Bombshell Internet Champion Masque de Lune in a non-title main event. Hey, I’m all for it. Everybody here and around the world is ready to see it. If I had to pick a winner, I hate to say it, but there’s a reason why Masque is undefeated in singles matches. I don’t think that’s going to end this weekend.”

[Mercedes shrugs.]

“Sorry, not sorry.”

[There’s a chance Kat could be upset seeing this - not that Mercedes cared or anything, or even that Kat wouldn’t be upset or cared either way - but the Argentine stood by her prediction. Nonetheless, Mercedes had her own match to worry about.]

“As for me and Melissa? I can see why we’re going to open the show, and it’s not because she’s just the newcomer or that Jessie Salco was given the night off. It’s because everyone else on the card will have to follow what we do on Sunday because our match will steal the show.

“They say you're never as good as everyone tells you when you win, and you're never as bad as they say when you lose. You're only as good as your last match. Melissa, I was seemingly impressed by your recent victories - sure, they were against Chloe and Ariana, not exactly what I call competition, but impressive nonetheless. You have a bright future and endless potential. But then again, I seem to be a broken record these days because I often say that a lot to the fresh-faced newcomers that walk through these hollow doors. Most of the opponents I’ve faced are either injured, retired or have since left the company and the rare few aren't in the company long enough to realize their true potential, and that's a shame.”

[Clicking her tongue partly out of dismay and partly out of the sheer wonder of it all, Mercedes' smile faded as she briefly shakes her head, a look of disappointment is there too.]

“It’s a good thing you beat Ariana to qualify for the Ultimate X match at Summer XXXTreme because I don’t think your ego would take it if you had to face Jessie Salco in your pay-per-view debut. It’s not the first time Jessie has punched above her weight but I’m pretty sure you would enjoy crushing her like a bug than having to beat three other women in your first title match.

“I don’t say this often to many people, but Melissa, I respect you, I respect your fiancé, I respect your journey, but make no mistake about it, I’m a killer. I don’t need to say it, I do it. So my question is before you have to step in the ring with me how are you enjoying your fifteen seconds of fame? Because you just went from the shallow end of the pool to the great big ocean. Talk about pressure!”
 
[Mercedes wipes her forehead.]

“You must be really good if you were handpicked by Christian Underwood to face me. But understand Melissa that I am the ultimate veteran. I’ve seen it all, I’ve done it all. If you are going to beat me, I'm going to make you earn it, mamita. And there's no limits to the lengths and depths I will go to bring the fight to you. So I hope you bring everything you got. Anything less, and you can say bye-bye to your undefeated streak.”

[She offers a finger-wave.]

"I don't wrestle, I slay. My checklist is proof of that. Maybe you’ve heard of it. Don’t worry, your name will be part of it soon."

[Mercedes angles her head to one side as her arrogance shines through. A small smile turns into a satisfying grin. Mercedes was always told to err on the side of caution, but such advice meant little to her. Murphy's Law has a funny way of ruining plans - even the best laid plans - but there's just no way she could mess this up, right?]

“Just remember one thing: I'm not in that ring with you, you're in that ring with me.”

[For a moment the smile returns to her face while running her fingers through her hair.]

“See you Sunday.”

[With that, the scene fades on Mercedes' confident smirk before she offers a heart gesture with her hands before breaking it in two.]

Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 29 de mayo al 4 de julio de 2022

By now anyone who follows my career knows that Into the Void is synonymous with Mercedes Vargas. My first pay-per-view match happened at Into the Void, I’ve defended and challenged for championships at Into the Void, I‘ve made history at Into the Void, I walked out the first ever four-time Bombshell Roulette Champion at Into the Void. So when this year’s supercard came and went, what did you expect would happen three weeks ago? Yet again, with my back against the wall, under the bright lights and on the biggest stage, yours truly fought through it and came out on top because that’s what I do.

Was it going to be easy? No. Not when your opponent outweighs you by some 200 pounds, that and her power advantage alone are reason enough to give any woman second thoughts at stepping into the ring against her. But I’m not just any woman, oh no. I’m the most successful Bombshell ever in the history of Sin City Wrestling. And at the end of the night, Ms. Jon ended up as just another name on my checklist.

You know, prior to the supercard the last three matches I had I lost them all so you know a win was coming eventually. When I’m on a little setback, it’s not for very long. Every wrestler wins matches, every wrestler loses matches, but it's the great wrestlers that are able to bounce back from a loss, or in my cases, a series of losses.

So, yeah. I had a pretty good night in Athens, Greece and enjoyed the flight back home. Now that I think about it, the fine Christian Underwood hit me with after attacking Ms. Jon’s manager at the go-home show was so worth it. The audacity to discipline me in the first place and the fine itself are both a joke, but if I had the chance to go back in time and do things differently, you know what I would have done?

Nothing!

Anyway, my first match following Into the Void should have been last week, but I’m not going to get into details right now. People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care. I didn't think people would care about me that much. Seems like I’ve become public enemy number because of the decision I made, and I’m ok with that because at the end of the day, that was my decision to make and there’s no one who can tell me different.

Except if your name is Alicia Lukas. Granted, some might say I’m at a slight disadvantage because I’ve never beaten her in my career and I've got nothing to gain in a match that I didn’t particularly ask for but at this point of my career, I don't give a damn who is front of me so long as my hand is raised at the bell. Now, it's no secret that I can rile up the division, but if I can get a reaction out of Alicia, anyone is fair game. Because when it comes to being hated, nobody does it better.

Alicia can go ahead and talk about the many times she’s beat me and hang those victories over my head but she should know well enough to know that no matter what she does or says that she will never shut me up.

Read my lips, write it down – I’m walking out of Climax Control with my head held high and my hand raised in victory. I’m going to end this losing streak to Alicia Lukas. So this weekend, I hope the Strong Style Southern Belle brings all the badassery that she has, make sure she practiced her Southern hospitality, but more importantly, I hope she’s prepared to be disappointed again. She's still funny, but the novelty is wearing out fast, which can only mean that it will be a matter of time before she becomes a fading star in SCW.

 

S A N T A M O N I C A • C A L I F O R N I A

[Mercedes raises an eyebrow her smartphone goes off. The display shows the incoming call is from her her mother. Mercedes shakes her head, sighs, then puts on a fake smile and answers.]

Mercedes: Hi Mom!

Estelle: Happy Mothers Day. Just calling in to see how you were. I hear Greece is nice this time of year.

Mercedes: I’m fine, thanks. And yes, Greece has been great. The sooner I get out of here, the better.

Estelle: Are you OK from your injury? I was worried sick after what that woman did to you. What kind of MONSTER throws someone off a stage. Don’t they know you have a livelihood?

Mercedes: Pretty sure my opponent was thinking the same thing before changing her mind. I tried to talk her out of it. Nevertheless, she persisted. Every shiner or bruise is a badge of honor. I’m still breathing, aren’t I?

The video cuts between Mercedes and Estelle on her phone now and again.

Estelle: I don’t know what I would do if I were to lose you. I would be heartbroken.

Mercedes: You have Jorge. You know he was always the favorite.

Estelle: I don’t know think he even knows that, but that’s our little secret.

Mercedes: Really, Mom!?

Mercedes foes to end the call before she heard her mother’s plea.

Estelle: Wait, wait. I have good news. Are you alone?

[Mercedes observes her surroundings before turning back to her phone.]

Mercedes: I’m alone. What is it?

Estelle: Well, there’s some good news, and some not so good news.

Mercedes: No news is good news.

Estelle: The bad news is, your father is getting a promotion at a new accounting firm in a few weeks, and he couldn’t be happier. The good news is... yeah, I was hoping to make something up to make this terrible situation seem better.

Mercedes: How do you do it?

Estelle: Do what, dear?

Mercedes: Raised me? It must have been crazy. You were always so calm and sweet with me.

Estelle: Well, you might not experience things the way I did, but every moment was a joy.

[Flashback to Estelle holding a crying Mercedes as a baby. Despite her best efforts, Estelle wasn’t exactly the baby whisperer. The flashback-present day sequence continues for the rest of this scene.]

Estelle: WHY DON’T YOU SLEEP?!

[Back to modern times.]

Mercedes: I don’t remember you yelling at me.

Estelle: How could I yell at that face.

[Flashback to young Mercedes covered in art paint. If she was supposedly Midas, instead of everything thing she touched turning to gold, everything she touched turned into paint. Let’s just say this wasn’t her attempt at artistic expression. A furious Estelle is pulling her hair, seemingly at her breaking point.]

Estelle: OH MY GOD! LOOK WHAT YOU DID TO THE WALLS! YOU JUST PUT PAINT ON THE WALLS! WHAT THE F**** IS WRONG WITH YOU?!   

[Back to the present. Mercedes has a confused look on her face.]

Mercedes: That bad, huh? Sometimes I feel overwhelmed. Did you ever feel like that?

[Flashback to Mercedes, age six. Screaming kids run amok in the living room. Mercedes has icing all over her face. Estelle seemingly stands there in a trance as the crazy unfolds. She snaps out of it temporarily as she begins singing “happy birthday” on top of her voice.

Back to the present. Estelle is thinking.]

Estelle: If that did happen, I don’t remember it.

Mercedes: I always remembered how you were always put together.

[Flashback to Estelle holding young Mercedes by the hand as the school bus pulls up. Neighbors, school kids, and bus driver alike stare back at Estelle dressed in risqué clothing. Not something you expect at 7AM on the third day of school.

Estelle gives her daughter a parting kiss on the forehead.

Estelle: You be good at school.

[Back to the present.]

Mercedes: And remember how teenagers always hated their parents? You never judged me at all.

[Estelle is in Mercedes’ bedroom reading her diary. The entry she reads causes her to drop the book.

Back to the present.]

Estelle: Well, it was never my business, dear. Are you going somewhere with all this?

Mercedes: May you live in interesting times, Mom.

 

Present Day ♦ S A N T A M O N I C A • C A L I F O R N I A

[REC•]

[Open on Mercedes Vargas, hidden behind aviator sunglasses, seen from Observation Hill in Tongva Park, overlooking the ocean and pier.]

“Alicia Lukas! Congratulations on making history at Into the Void and becoming the first ever two-time, two-time Queen for a Day winner. Well earned, mamita.”

[The SCW Hall of Famer starts clapping her hands, seemingly impressed.]

“I'm sure your arms are tired by now patting yourself on the back. Enjoy your crowning moment.”

[Mercedes suddenly stops herself, then shakes her head.]

“Wait a minute. What am I saying? You didn’t win at the supercard. In fact, you lost. Not only that, but you lost at Into the Void for the first time ever in your career. You know who didn’t lose two weeks ago?”

[Mercedes points at herself.]

“Me!”

“You know who is the only Bombshell who has made every Into the Void card for the last 10 years and has never been pinned or submitted?”

[Mercedes nods her head.]

“Yeah, that would be me too! Crazy, huh? What’s really crazy is whatever you were going on about last week on Climax Control. Yeah, I heard what you said, heard every last word. Including my name coming out of your mouth. Now, I know you and I will never be friends. You don’t like me, I sure as hell don’t like you. So there’s that. Yet somehow, I’d like to think there’s a little bit of respect in that black heart of yours.

“You want to talk about how weird it is that you’re not being booked as often as you would like? Just between us girls, there’s a reason why you’re not featured in matches as often as you would like, Alicia. It’s because we like you more the LESS we see you.”

[Tossing her hair back, Mercedes enters into a fit of laughter, before cutting herself off.]

“In all seriousness, there are some people who are perfectly fine in their position while getting paid more money than the people who complain about their status in SCW. I don’t see what you’re crying about when you’ve competed in double-digit matches three out of the last four years including each of the last three.

“And then here you are trying to play locker room leader. And I mean, look, somebody has to because Roxi Johnson thinks she’s a locker room leader while Amber Ryan pretends to be - It’s silly to call yourself a Queen when you don’t have the throne - but that won’t stop you from taking that mantle. You are many things, Alicia, but a locker room leader?”

[She raises an eyebrow, tilting her head to one side.]

“The bar for the Bombshell Division has been lowered.”

[Mercedes seems to hold back a laugh with her hand, but the feeling was so overwhelming that she turns away from the camera. When she’s able to get a hold of herself again, she holds up one hand in an apologetic gesture.]

“Don’t you know that you have to earn the right to lead the locker room, silly rabbit? Don’t you know that in order to lead others, you have to start leading yourself? I never pictured you as someone wanting to wave the flag of the Bombshells and the talent. The window of wrestlers wanting to work with you continues to get smaller and smaller, especially given your past and recent comments. It’s unbelievable how you’re still hanging around in the Bombshell locker room going on three years now. You should count your lucky stars that Mark and Christian has taken a liking to you or else you wouldn’t even have close to the success you’ve had in your career.

“A locker room leader needs to have integrity, self-discipline, selflessness, drive, responsibility. Maybe you have some of these qualities or all of them or none of them. Maybe I’m wrong. Maybe you are the perfect fit to lead the next generation of wrestlers at your training school.

“We all know you have no filter, it’s actually hard to dispute what you say so you can’t help but agree with it. But to go ahead and openly question someone’s effort? Are you sure that’s a hill you want to die on? But hey, you decided to climb up the hill in the first place, and thank God someone is going to bring you back down to reality. That Kate Steele found it convenient to leave me high and dry just as last week’s card was announced didn’t surprise me. It’s not the first time our English tart got out of a match facing Masque and that’s because she was protecting her little undefeated streak. That’s neither here or there since she got her ass beat at Into the Void and lost her title to Kat.

“It goes without saying that the best ability is availability. We have an obligation, I get it. But while I may be a lot of things, I’m not stupid. I wasn’t planning on facing Masque AND Amber by myself just because our benevolent King Mark Cross got an opportunity to show his pettiness long before Kate cut bait for that tag match. Bad enough that I had to face Amber two years ago when Crystal put a hit job on me because she was all in her feelings after the things I said about her. Go figure.”

[She waves a hand around airily.]

“I took the night off last week. I’m allowed. Pretty sure I’m established enough to have a break now and again. I’m one of the only two wrestlers about to reach 200 career matches. What, you’re going to call me entitled and unprofessional next, hmm? Say what you want about Kate, get all the elderly jokes about me and my avid fandom of New York sports teams out of your system, but at the end of the day, Alicia, you can never question my loyalty to Sin City Wrestling. I’ve been a dominant force for nearly a decade. I have nothing left to prove. I could retire right now and go down in history as arguably one of the greatest Bombshell ever. I’m the most decorated wrestler in all of Sin City Wrestling. Proud of it, not ashamed to say it. Do I love to point it out every chance I get? Yes, yes I do. I would tweet and retweet that shit the same way I do pretty much every other sporting event that you probably follow if I could.

“I make no apologies for being good at what I do, and I’m not about to start now.”

[She raises her sunglasses over her head.]

“I know you were dead set on facing Kate Steele this weekend, but unfortunately, you get me at Climax Control. Don’t laugh, or do. I don’t care. As much as you want to dismiss me as your rival, you and I both know that I’m one of the few people that can get in your head. You went undefeated this year? If I fought the likes of Candy, Ariana Angelos, and Samantha Marlowe every week, I would be too.

“I am an icon. I am a legend. I am revolutionary. I am the standard. I am the one-woman dynasty. You are just someone who caught lightning in a bottle, went on a nine-month title reign, and has never managed to recapture that magic since that dominant run ended. Even after you came back from injury, you haven’t been the same. You’re the reason why Seleana Zdunich, Keira Fisher-Johnson and Bombshell Champion are in the same sentence. And then you threatened retirement that one time only that you came back after taking a few shows off, showing everyone what we’ve known all along that your word is absolutely worthless.

“Oh, wait, you were “emotional and frustrated”, right? Three years in with an impressive win-loss record to show for it. Pay-per-views, main events, Queen for a Day, multiple world title reigns. Suddenly, after one loss, the sky is falling? Were you “emotional and frustrated” when Roxi ended your third reign? Or when Seleana ended your first reign?”

[Mercedes raises her index finger in a wait-a-minute gesture.]

“Well, on that one I would be embarrassed and humiliated, but we don’t talk about that night. Point is, Alicia, if there is anyone who should be a locker room leader, I wouldn’t put you in my top five, you wouldn’t even make it in my top 10. I should be the locker room leader in the Bombshells Division. I’ve grown so wise in my old age that I’ll do my best to be as diplomatic as I possibly can. I’m better than you, I’m more successful than you, I attract more attention than you. This isn’t a competition. Certainly not a close one.

“Alicia, you may have the upper hand right now, but nothing lasts forever, sweetheart. Eventually, I can’t stay winless against you forever. Sunday, that ends here, and so does your singles winning streak.

“Long before you knew. And long after you remember.”

***Fade***

Present Day ♦ G R E E C E

[REC•]

[When you think of Greece, images of sandy shores, blue ocean, mountains, whitewashed buildings and blue domes come to mind. And when it comes to beaches, perhaps no city boasts more beautiful beaches than Crete, where we find Mercedes Vargas no doubt enjoying a relaxing day lounging around and lapping up waves as part of her to-do list.]

“The dawn of a new year means a new beginning. And new possibilities and opportunities. More importantly, a new year means a fresh start. A quarter of the way into 2022, and I should be further along than I should be. I’m not, and that is something I’m ashamed to admit to.

“I’ve been in this business for quite a long time and I’ve experience my share of highs and lows. And after every loss, I just remind myself I’m always better than my last match. Maybe I’m closer to the end of my career than the beginning. I don’t give a damn what anyone thinks of me. I don’t give a damn what my win-loss record is. I go back into my hotel room, look myself in the mirror and tell myself that I am that damn good.”

[Nothing wrong with a little self affirmation now and again.]

“They say sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good. I mean, maybe that’s true, probably not but it could be — if you just want to be merely good, not much better than average. My last match didn't turn out the way I wanted it to. There is nothing as more unpredictable than a triple threat match. You have all these unseen elements; you have to look out for the unexpected, eyes in the back of your head. After what happened last week in the triple threat, Seleana Zdunich has been very lucky because she isn’t very good. I had that match won, but Ms. Jon just had to mess that up. I’ll have a few choice words about that and her at Climax Control.

“So I’m willing to bet Seleana is quite pleased with herself ahead of her future title match, probably at the Bombshell Roulette or Internet Championship. But let’s face it. Anyone with two brain cells knows that Seleana doesn’t stand a chance against either Kate Steele or Masque de Lune so they can rest easy knowing they have an easy title defense. I guess when when you really look at it, The Cat is the biggest loser.

“But let’s get this back where this should be. Sunday I get Samantha Marlowe, Myra Rivers, and Krystal Wolfe in a four-way with the winner getting the next opportunity at the World Bombshell Championship. You know, usually, usually, I don’t, you know, stroke my own ego or I don’t give myself a pat on the back, but in a women's locker room that often sees competitors come and go within a couple years, if that, I've been one of the longest active here. I've been such a constant presence for the past nine years now that it's almost easy to forget about my successes. I get no respect. I'm practically the Roger Dangerfield of the women's division, maybe even the entire company. So if there’s anyone who is more deserving of this opportunity, if there is anyone who is bona fide, certified, and qualified to be in this match, it’s me. I check all the boxes.”

[Mercedes starts counting on her fingers to illustrate.]

“Most decorated champion in the women’s division and all of SCW: Check. Two-time Hall of Famer: double check. The only woman to win every championship available in the women’s division: Check, check, check. These are just facts. Look it up if you want to, it’s all there.”

[Mercedes holds up her hands innocently.]

“Granted, Sam, Myra, and Krystal all have legitimate reasons why they’re in this match, I’m not blind to that. Sam is on the cusp of her comeback tour while Myra and Krystal are coming off months-long title reigns. Oh, and there’s plenty of history between the four of us, though Krystal and I are both facing Myra for the first time. The point is being in this match with me makes Sam, Myra, and Krystal instantly better. Now they all won their most recent matches, but that doesn’t give them the edge ahead of Sunday, oh no, they needed those wins. They needed those wins to feel confident heading into Sunday because I’m not in that ring with them, they’re in that ring with me.

“Then again, maybe my opponents know something I don’t. They must know that I don’t have a realistic chance to win this weekend, which would insinuate that I’m there just to make up the numbers than trying to win a match. That's to be celebrated, of course, because a match with Mercedes Vargas on the card is always better than one in which I’m not...

Nonetheless, that doesn’t stop Krystal from talking all that smack about me. The way I see it, she shouldn't be hating on me 'cause I’ve been world champ in SCW as have Sam. She should be hating that she'll never be one.”

[Mercedes raises her index finger in a wait-a-minute gesture.]

“Four women enter, one woman leaves the next contender. Am I saying I’m going to walk out of this match with my hand raised? No. I’m going to be in the pursuit. I’ve got nothing to lose and nothing to prove. That, chickadees, makes me the dangerous one.”

[Mercedes points at herself.]

"Estar preparado para lo peor, esperar lo mejor."
"Prepare for the worst, hope for the best."

[Mercedes fluffs and straightens out her hair and then slowly cross her arms. She pauses for effect, lowering her voice just above a whisper.]

"Y que la suerte está siempre en su favor.”
“And may the odds be ever in your favor."

***Fade***

Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 20 al 27 de febrero de 2022

I haven't won an SCW Award, yet I have more recognition than every person on the roster. I have yet to win the top titles in the division, yet people can't stop talking about my collective title reigns for some reason. I don't even need to be booked, yet there isn't a second that goes by without my name being mentioned, even in whispers. The topic on everyone's lips, the most talked about event, the conversation at the water cooler, playground and street corners, on social media, and in the most elusive nightclubs start and end with?

And you know what the best part of that was? I enjoyed every moment, every second. Of course, I was probably hated for it, and that didn't bother me one bit. Nope. See, because I don't think, I KNOW I am the single most hated person on the roster. Notice I did not say the women’s division, I said on the roster. By the fans, by the roster, by the front office, hell, maybe by the entire universe. If you need proof of this, you don't have to go far. As much hatred and vitriol people have for Andrea, I don't think anyone wanted to end their career. That's how I know I'm doing my job and doing it well.

If I'm making you shift in your seat, if I make you a little uncomfortable, if I’m getting under your skin and light that fire under you, if I'm pissing you off than that's what I'm here to do. To me, that's a lot better than winning a championship.

I get it, I'm delusional. I live in my own little bubble and people like her say that like it's a bad thing. Maybe it's because nine times out of ten, I'm not the one who started it. But, see, while people can call me delusional all they want, I also happen to own a mirror, my eyesight is pretty okay, and I don't have a need to be arrogant because unlike some on the roster here, I have nothing to prove. I didn't come here expecting the legacy I have, but, what do you know, a little more than nine years in after my debut I became the fastest to achieve the Bombshell Grand Slam, the only one to achieve the Bombshell Grand Slam twice, the Bombshell Triple Crown three times, oh, and am still the only one to win EVERY championship available in the division. Did I mention the numerous records I’ve rewritten in the record books?

Like the other Bombshells on the roster, you, Bea, should be thankful that yours truly is here to give you something to strive for. You were long on promise, short on potential, and there was always that wide gap of criticism between us. Fat chance that no one would say your career is declining; I'm practically on thin ice in my own. You've always had a high ceiling, most people expected me to have a low floor.

When you're at your lowest point, there's nowhere to go but up. Bea, you have the talent that could take you to the top. You’ve been in the ring with Amber, Roxi, and Kat. You’re a former champion in SCW, and you nearly could have been world champion, but it didn’t happen. You have the talent. The thing holding you back is that deep down you don’t believe in yourself. You have a fear of failure. My opinion of you is the same opinion you believe in yourself. You’re nothing more than a loser, and you always will be. But you can change that narrative. It makes me wonder what you will find more frustrating, losing to me or knowing deep down that win or lose that I will take credit for taking you to the next level.

You ever had that moment where before something really bad is about to happen to you, you take a moment to realize that somewhere along the way, you REALLY messed up? In a way, that's kinda like what’s about to happen to, well, you, Bea Barnhart. If that moment of clarity hasn't hit you yet, don't worry, it will. But, see, you’re not the victim here, Bea. I’m the victim. You want to see me like this. You want to see me crack, try and get me off my game. I need to have a short memory and high drive for myself. That's what a successful people do. I've been a champion most of my career, including here in SCW. I will be champion again, and I dare anyone to stop me. I’ve been mocked and ridiculed over the claims that my title reigns define my career. The other Bombshells may think whatever they want, but it’s been both a blessing and a burden for me. It’s a testament that I know how to capitalize on my golden opportunities and display a resiliency that enables me to rebound from missteps along the way. It’s why I have a firmer place in Sin City Wrestling history and a deeper appreciation for my accolades and achievements, as everyone should have. It’s why I am a two-time Hall of Famer in this company. Proud of it, not ashamed to say it.

Love me, great. Hate me, even better. Delusional, why not? Last I checked, I didn't come here to impress anybody. I pride myself in always remaining true to myself and people can call it whatever they want: Bad attitude, arrogance, whining. At least they're taking time out of their day to think about me. Your words, ladies, are not driving me away, in fact, it's doing quite the opposite. Your words sustain me and furthers my drive to be the best even more, kind of like the nutrients needed for flowers to survive. Love me or hate me, they just can't ignore me.

For someone that claims that I'm worthless, people sure do seem to talk about me a lot, if not indirectly in some way. It's comical how they claim nobody cares about me and what I have to say. And yet, here I am on the lips of all of these idiots and people watching and waiting and wondering what I'm going to say next. And if people hate what I had to say at these past few weeks, they're REALLY gonna hate what I have to say when I win Sunday and they're not going to have a single excuse when I leave Climax Control with my hand raised. And unfortunately for one Bea Barnhart, it's going to be at her expense. This match isn't something that I need to do to prove to the rest of the division that I'm that damn good. I've won that argument. My legacy is still intact, my title reigns and accolades aren't on paper, it's in the record books, and I'm on the damn cover. I highly doubt none of the other Bombshells are capable of taking my spot on the roster until I'm ready to give it up.

It wouldn’t be me if I didn’t, now would it?

Let's face it, Bea, you've had better days, you've probably had better nights, but Sunday won’t be one of them. And come Sunday, it's going to continue when I beat you within an inch of your pathetic life.

 

S A N T A M O N I C A • C A L I F O R N I A

[On this mostly cloudy morning, Mercedes Vargas skips breakfast to come out to the Pier early and avoid the crowds. Walking along the boardwalk, we can see the towering amusement rides in the foreground, including a giant Ferris wheel. A neon “open” sign is seen at The Coffee Bean, one of the few eateries that is open at 9 AM. Mercedes visited their once ot twice, but didn't think the coffee was all that great.]

.::CARMEN::..
¿Hoy es jueves?
(Today's Thursday?)

.::MERCEDES::..
No lo sé. Podría miércoles o viernes o Sunday...
(I don't know. Maybe it's Wednesday or Friday or even Sunday...)

[Carmen holds up her hands innocently.]

.::CARMEN::..
No se preocupe. Compruebe el calendario.
(Forget it. I'll check the calender.)

[She raises a quizzical eyebrow at Carmen, but her cousin didn't explain. Mercedes simply rolls her eyes at her before zipping her duffle bag and sets it on top of two wheeled suitcases and a carry-on bag near the front door. She packed everything she would ever need for her trip back to Nevada. Sometimes it was too hot, sometimes it was too cold, and other days she would need to stay dry after a rain storm or two. Then again, this was nothing news to her, having visited the state more times than she cared to admit.]

.::CARMEN::..
Ya encontraste un lugar? Tomó bastante tiempo.
(Did you find a new place already? Took you long enough.)

.::MERCEDES::..
Viajo a Reno nuevamente fin de semana pero no pienso viviendo allí. Lo siento.
(I am travelling to Reno again this weekend, but I don't think I'll be living there. Sorry....)

.::CARMEN::..
Si yo fuera tú, tomaría una responsabilidad propia.
(If I were you, I'd be more responsible.)

[Mercedes raises an eyebrow, now wanting to speak in English.]

.::MERCEDES::..
And why do you think?

::CARMEN::..
Why do I think what?

.::MERCEDES::..
Why do you think I’m not responsible?

::CARMEN::..
You want me to really answer that? Because this could take all day.

.::MERCEDES::..
 Oh no? Because I’m sure you’re just as better at being responsible than I’ll ever be.

::CARMEN::..
Merce, you don’t have a good track record of making good decisions. Now I don’t know what you—

.::MERCEDES::..
So you have an opinion about my life? Which one of my bills will you paying this month, hmm?

::CARMEN::..
You were three months late with your Netflix subscription. And your Internet! And you’re still paying your black card. I love this game, don’t you?

.::MERCEDES::..
Don’t be a smart ass. Like you actually give a shit.

::CARMEN::..
If I was being smart, how would you know?

.::MERCEDES::..
Listen, listen to me right now because I’m trying to stay very calm. You have no grounds running my life, okay. I’m always nice to you and you always have your bitch face and attitude on. I can handle myself just fine, thank you.

::CARMEN::..
If your lies were just as good as your wrestling career, maybe I’d believe you, but it’s your word against mine. And if this was a boxing match, I’d be ahead on points.

.::MERCEDES::..
Leave my career out of this. You don’t see me bringing up your career, Nancy Drew. Don't mess with the alligator until after you have crossed the swamp.

[Mercedes could see the annoyance on Carmen’s face, but she didn’t care. Her cellphone rings as Carmen answers]

.::CARMEN::..
¿Bueno? Sí, élla habla.
(Hello? Yes, this is she.)

.::MERCEDES::..
Voy a dar un paseo.
(I'm going to take a walk...)

[Mercedes exit and leaves.]



Present Day ♦ L O S A N G E L E S, C A L I F O R N I A

[REC•]

“I tried everything humanly possible. I had a chance to become Bombshell Champion, and I couldn't get it done. Had a chance to end Amber Ryan’s reign, and I fell short of that. Climax Control 321 should have ended with me getting my hand raised, but that didn't happen. At this point, I'm running out of excuses.”

[Mercedes Vargas kicks back in the living room of her Los Angeles residence. Sitting down comfortably in an armchair while polishing her nails with a nail file, the Argentine is just as much out of answers as well. 2022 was supposed to be the year she put it all together, the year she was supposed to get a good run going and finally achieve her ultimate goals of holding up the Bombshell Championship for the first time in a long time.

It’s still early in the year, but thus far, Mercedes is off to a rough start, which wasn’t unsurprisingly surprising. More than likely, she’s prone to immediately throw in the towel—but she won’t ignore it, either. With some patience, time, and some good old-fashion motivation, Mercedes could get past her latest setback two weeks ago and focus on the title picture. Not that she has never been too far from the title picture.

Now after another early exit from the Blast From the Past Tournament, Mercedes was again at the crossroads. As she look into a camera, she pushes back a stray strand of hair out of her eyes with the back of her hand.]

“Anyway, before I begin this promo, I want to take time to apologize to my tag team partner, Shane Hawthorne. Shane’s probably angry at me for not helping him save the match, but there is a perfectly reasonable explanation....I twisted my ankle. Yeah, sorry about that. You probably didn't see me hobbling around out there, but it sounded pretty serious and I had to get it looked at by medical personnel, so as much as I would have like to help you, I had to look about me first. I hope you find it in your heart of hearts to forgive me.

[Mercedes offers what she believed to be a sincere smile, thought it's more than likely, well, a 99.9 percent chance, that neither Shane or Amber and Hitamashii wasn't buying it.]

“Amber Ryan, let’s face it, she practically successfully defended her title on a technicality. World championship matches shouldn’t be defended in tag matches. A real champion doesn’t hide behind their tag partner to protect their title reign. But so long as she got another defense in the book, Amber couldn’t care less. A win is a win, right? Amber was going to retain, by hook or by crook. And if what happened three weeks ago was a crime, she should be found guilty as charged. But you know something? Karma has a funny way of dealing with people. Turns out karma is a bigger bitch then I could ever be and poor little Amber found out that lesson the hard way. Serves her right for what she did to me in the the BFTP, and I’m going to remember that. And the next time I see her, I’ll make sure she remembers it too.

“I don't know what to do anymore. I forgot I was even booked this week.”

[Mercedes shakes her head as she remembers that she's facing yet another opponent she's faced in her career, and it doesn't lighten the mood any better. Nonetheless, there was other matters to discuss.]

“Why even waste my time facing someone like Bea Barnhart? Just why? Unless Mark and Christian is giving her a death wish, because that is what she's going to get Sunday. It's not fair to Bea, or to me. Just save her the trouble, just save another match on the card. If Bea Bea thinks she’s going to get another win this week, especially against me, she’s in for a rude awakening.

“It’s one thing to talk about being one of the most successful talents in Sin City Wrestling, it’s another thing to prove it. People like me deserve to face main event talent, not the Bea Barnhart’s of the women’s division. But then again, I don’t make the matches.”

[Her eyes doesn't meet the camera as she looks down for a moment, gathering her thoughts as she brings her hands to her face. This wasn't something that she wanted to get herself into, but there was no turning back now. The match was on whether she liked it or not. A short sigh and she looks up again, a determined stance in her voice, a redemptive fire in her eyes.]

"I am the hardest-working woman in SCW. Find somebody, anybody, who is capable of working two brands the way I have. The answer is you can’t. My success has led others to being successful. It’s why Winter Elemental is champion up in Sin City Underground and is closing in on three months of holding the GRIME Championship and why she is already on her way to another successful defense this weekend.

[Mercedes puts down her nail file, now giving the camera her full attention.]

“As far as my match with you, Bea, I’m just glad we’re getting another chance to hash things out between us. I just find it hilarious that you’re going into this not knowing who you’re dealing with. Do I think you've got what it takes to win this Sunday? Sure. But that doesn't mean it's going to happen. Bea, let me explain something to you. No matter how much you talk, you know deep down in your heart and in your mind and in your soul that you can’t touch me. There’s fear and desperation in your eyes, and there should be. I’ve already beat you the two times we met two years ago. I’m sure you haven’t forgotten Climax Control 277, but I also beat you at Blaze of Glory that year too. When you add up those results, conventional wisdom says that the third time won’t be the charm, mamita.”

[Mercedes suddenly becomes quiet as she reaches for her glasses and slowly pulls them off, folding them in her hands and then placed them next to her.]

“Oops, there I go, talking about the past again. What you don’t seem to understand, Bea, is my past defines who I am. I won’t apologize for my success. It’s not my fault the competition can’t reach for those imaginary brass rings let alone the bar that I’ve set, maybe a little too high, not because they don’t care but because they’re not good enough. This just goes to show you that there are some people in this world that don't like a success story. You are one of these women who hates hearing me talk about my accomplishments. And it’s not because you’re “sick” of them, it’s jealousy. I’m living the career you and all the other Bombshells wish they had. I’ve accomplished things in my career that you haven’t and never will. That is a fact.

Fans have widely criticized that I’m a sore loser. Well, you show me a good loser and I'm going to show you a loser, which typically will be who I’ll be standing across from Sunday. It wasn’t so long ago that after teaming with your husband in winning and quickly losing the World Mixed Tag Team Championship, you’ve been spinning your wheels, Bea. It was only three weeks ago you won a match for the first time in some eight months. Congrats on beating Kaiju Rainbow, though. She hasn’t had the best of luck since her debut, but at least you have your first win in the new year.

“I’m looking to get my elusive first win too, and unfortunately, Beatrice, your name is about to end up on my checklist. I’m so glad SCW sees so much potential in you, Bea, which is why it will bring me so much pleasure when I embarrass you Sunday. And if that sounds like a threat, it’s not. That’s your immediate future.”

[Looking deadset into the camera lens, her voice drops to a whisper though her words hold conviction behind them.]

"Estar preparado para lo peor, esperar lo mejor."
"Prepare for the worst, hope for the best."

[She pauses for effect, lowering her voice just above a whisper.]

"Y que la suerte está siempre en su favor.”
“And may the odds be ever in your favor."

***Fade***