Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 6 al 13 de septiembre de 2 0 2 0

I'm not going to waste too much time here. We all know that I didn't win the battle royal two weeks ago, that Alicia got super lucky, and that Maki should be thankful that she left as fast as she did when she got eliminated because the only reason she's still around is by the grace of God and because I'm a nice person.

Maybe not all the time, but most of the time.

Anyway, Sunday is the go-home show to Violent Conduct and surprise, surprise, I have a golden opportunity for a Bombshell Roulette Championship title match at the supercard. Only problem is Johanna Krieger and Bea Barnhart stand in my way.

You know, it’s a good thing Johanna is going into this with such confidence, because we all know she's the baddest bitch in the Bombshells Division, and she will let you know that fact.

Well, if she wanted competition, she's got the right one because I sure do love testing myself against the up-and-comers here and find out if they're really ready to take on the best the company has to offer.

Good thing Johanna has had a pretty good standing up until now, she's going to need it. Now that she's moving on to a singles career, we're going to find out if she'll sink or swim. Bea Barnhart, bless her heart, the girl is trying to keep her head above water, but it's not whether she can stay alive, it's how long until she goes under.

Anyway, facing Bea Barnhart should be fun. Add in Johanna Krieger, now we have a party.

I have two opponents to get through Sunday. Am I going to guarantee walking out number one contender? No. I'll guarantee the pursuit of it, whatever it takes.

One day, someday, I will be champion again. But just as how I'm not going to let anyone stop me, I'm not letting failure stop me either. This year is only a setup for my comeback. And despite what you may think, failure isn't fatal. But I am.

Long before you knew, and long after you remember.


FLASHBACK

A plane chases the sunset.

Inside the plane, Mercedes wakes up from her afternoon nap and looks outside her window seat. The pyramids of Giza were best viewed at daytime, but seemed even more majestic under the orange glaze that settled behind the.historic landmarks. A man walks his camels over the desert sand dunes to wherever he was going.[/i]

Jorge: So, where you're off too next, Carmen Sandiego?

Mercedes: I told you, I'm going to Africa for a show on the twentieth. Did you get my tickets for Egypt yet?

Jorge: Took care of it.

Mercedes' brother passes the time listlessly turning the pages of a travel brochure about the continent. All the pertinent details are there – glossy photos, a few interesting trivia, nightlife.

If getting there was half the fun, usually the other half wasn't worth the price of admission.

He looks up from his reading.

Jorge: You know, Merce. I'm kind of surprised you took me along after, well, you know, the Egypt thing.

Mercedes: Well, as the Good Book says, you should forgive others, and I forgive you, Jorge.

Jorge: You never told me why you're taking me with you to the Ivory Coast.

Mercedes: Don't you want to see your own sister win back her tag team titles that she lost a month ago? Relax. Getting there is only half the fun.

Jorge shrugs.

Jorge: If you say so. Just that, you know, those girls you're up against scare the hell out of me, especially the girl with the guns. Oh, well. Might as well be prepared. What did you bring with you?

Mercedes holds up an iPad.

Mercedes: Movies and music? You?

Jorge: Even better. I've brought along some board games, playing cards, and dominoes to play with. This is going to be one long flight. Gotta have something to do or I'm going to be suffering from bordom-induced coma.

Mercedes stares back at her brother before lowering her face into her hand. Yup, this was going to be the beginning of what would be the week from hell. Will she be able to survive it is the question. The male passenger, who has since woken up from his nap turns to Mercedes, waving at her, which in turn weirded her out.

As the plane flies over the majestic Atlantic Ocean under the guise of sunrise, our scene fades to black.


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

It's Not Whether You Win or Lose: Gatekeeper the Eighteenth: Mentiras, Malditas Mentiras (Lies, Damned Lies..., Part III)

[REC•]

The camera warms up on Mercedes sitting cross-legged on a beanbag chair, slightly pensive to the events of the past few weeks, and for the weeks to come.

"Some things are better left unsaid, but you can bet I'm going to say it anyway. I can't help being who I am."

Mercedes takes a deep breath, brushes away a few strands of her hair from her eyes.

"There's one thing everyone knows I love to do and that's talk. So, when I talk, most of the time you know I'm going to say a lot and usually something somewhat controversial. You hinge on every last word, you're watching, waiting, and wondering just what I'm going to say. Most of the time, my words seem to stay in people's mind. So when it comes to this match and finding out who will be next in line to challenge Seleana Zdunich for the Bombshell Roulette Championship at Violent Conduct, well, I guess I have to say something, right?

"On paper, this is Johanna's match to lose. Johanna has the better record, the most wins, and the fewest losses. She's had an incredible, incredible year. SCW is always on the lookout for the next breakout star. A lot of the higher-ups believe she's had a breakout year of any woman on the active roster and it's only a matter of time before she winds up with her first singles championship and maybe even the top championship in her future. Bea Barnhart hasn't had a great year, but SCW sees a lot of potential. Like I said, on paper.

"In reality, though?"

The pause, then small smile on her face was a telltale sign to the viewer that Mercedes was about to once again defy all kinds of logic by not talking about herself.

"In reality, there's only one real threat in this triple threat. Sorry, it's not Bea or Johanna. And if you really had either of those two in mind, please leave the room. Don't get me wrong. Johanna is good, she may even be great, but she's only beginning her climb in Sin City Wrestling. She may be enjoying the honeymoon now, but it's not going to last forever. Alicia is a good example, so is Andrea. They were the hottest thing going last year, nobody could stop them. This year? Not so much.

"I know what you're thinking. There's no woman who's invincible. And as sure as the sky is blue I'm not either. I've taken my knocks, I've lost more than my fair share. But, see, the thing is I always got back up. I always get back up.

"I don't need 40 minutes to tell you what I can already say in 10 minutes. I could tell you about my title reigns and accolades, the championships I've won, the numerous records I've set and broken, the milestones I've reached, everything I've done in my career,, but, really, where's the fun in that? I've accomplished a lot more than what people give me credit for. I've carved out a legacy that will never be surpassed or equaled. You've read the history book, you've seen the monents. And if you did none of those things, you probably heard about it."

And while Mercedes may not be headlining shows or main events, no longer one of the top stars of the company or hold a title or even the top title, she was still a dangerous opponent, no matter what her win-loss record says.

"Johanna already made it clear how she feels about me and that's perfectly fine because I was never moved by emotions and I really don't care how people see me. If you can't handle me at my worst, you don't deserve me at my best, either the fans and the other Bombshells takes me for granted or they don't.

Mercedes offers an nonchalant shrug while mouthing the word "sorry" before continuing. The offer was non-negotiable.

"I've made history many times over at Violent Conduct. Do I have to win this match? Not really. Do I have anything to prove? Not really. My legacy won't be threatened, especially from who I'm facing next Sunday. This match is just the stepping stone to either Bea or Johanna in taking that next step. That doesn't mean I won't make you earn it."

Mercedes pauses, smirks a while. She knows where she was going with this.

"So when SCW poses a question that whoever wins Sunday won't know what they're getting into at Violent Conduct, I can only shake my head.

Maybe they forgot that I've been in more Roulette Rules matches than any woman in SCW history, or that I have more wins in Roulette Rules matches than anyone. Or the fact that I was the first-ever four-time Bombshell Roulette Champion."

Mercedes pauses, then adds.

"Or that there's nothing that roulette wheel can throw at me that I can't handle against Seleana. After all, I ruined her pay-per-view debut."

Mercedes swipes a hand over face. The once proud smile she had has transformed into a serious expression.

"And maybe Bea Barnhart seem to forgot that I have a singles win over her. Or that Jojo forgot that the last person who got in my face from her stable got her first loss handed to her. I'm willing to bet Sierra still has nightmares over it.

I know I'm a nightmare for anyone who stands across from me in that ring and I've proven that time again. In my prime, past my prime, it doesn't matter. Underestimate me at your peril and see where that gets you.

“So just how am I going to prepare for this match? I should be freaking out,, biting my nails and wondering how will that roulette wheel decide my fate this time.

“But I know better because it doesn't matter what the stipulation is. I don't have to get ready, I stay ready. Whatever the spin of that roulette wheel, I'll face it head on. Whatever challenge the two of you pose will be nothing like the first time anything before it. Am I at disadvantage? No question. And the scary thing is, I know neither of you like me, and maybe the greatest disadvantage is that you have every advantage. But here's the thing, I'll find a way, not a way out. I always do, because that's what I do.”

See, it's really simple: in order for me to make history one more time at Violent Conduct, for me to achieve my dreams, I have to crush yours. So Bea and Johanna will lose their Violent Conduct debut, and they might have to wait a little bit longer for that elusive singles title win.

"Ladies, you shouldn't be afraid of my words, you should be afraid when I have to put my boots back on and ready to kick ass and take names. So which one of you are going to end up on my checklist Sunday? Doesn't really matter. Pretend this is the Hall of Fame, you're both inducted, so pat yourselves on the back. You've earned it."

"So the question isn't who's going to let me..."

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

"it's who's going to stop me?"

Mercedes stops to open her arms wide in challenge.

***Fade***

[size=10]Blog: Almighty Fire[/size]
semana del 16 al 23 de agosto de 2 0 2 0[/font]

“The art of losing isn’t hard to master;
so many things seem filled with the intent
to be lost that their loss is no disaster…
Lose something every day. Accept the fluster
of lost door keys, the hour badly spent.
The art of losing isn’t hard to master
though it may look like (Write it!) like disaster.”

– One Art (By Elizabeth Bishop)

Another year, another loss at Summer XXXtreme. Go figure.

At least I had an excuse last year. This time last year, I entered Summer XXXtreme Bombshell Roulette Champion and I had to defend against multiple challengers in the Ultimate X Over the Pool. Two weeks ago I had no excuse. Two weeks ago I was one three count away from finally putting Christina behind me. Two weeks ago, I had Christina Rose right where I wanted her, and I let her off the hook.

When I said that Christina wasn't going sleaze her way out of another match, I meant it. When I said she wasn't going to get off that easy, I meant it. She wanted to walk out of that cruise ship, she wasn't simply going to get by with half the effort. She had to work twice as hard that night to earn it.

So another chapter is written. May not be the way I drew it up, not the conclusion I hoped for, not the outcome I wanted, but we have to move on. I have to move on. It's necessary. Time is running out and there's still so much left to do. I've had too many opportunities slip through my fingers, matches I should have won, championships I should have around my waist, records and accolades that should have been broken. I'm sorry if this gets personal it's just all over the place right now. I've hit my breaking point and need to let it out. I'm sorry again if it's too long you don't have to read it all...

No, you know what? Fuck it, I'm done apologizing.

I've been in this company for a long time. Seven years, to be exact. That's longer than any place I've ever been employed in my career, by far. And for seven of the 11 years I've been in this industry, I've practically done it all in Sin City Wrestling. I've made moments, I've set and shattered records, you've seen me be a part of the most dominant stables in SCW history and I held my own during and after the both times it ended. As a matter of fact, I'm the last ex-member still on the active roster. The names change, the faces change, but for the seven years I've been here, you never saw me without a championship around my waist. Hasn't been done before, hasn't been done since. I've been nothing but successful, year after year after year. Regardless of what my win-loss record says.

This year has seen me fall more times than I can count, and I know a lot of people are tap dancing on my grave.

But little did they know, I'm not dead yet. 

And as for Bea…

Looks like you found yourself in a very tough spot this weekend, sweetheart. Not only do you have a losing streak a mile wide, but you get me inside the six-sided ring. And I'm not in a very good mood. And when I'm not in a very good mood, bad things happen. Especially when it comes to people like you.

 I don't know how or why you're got to challenge for the Bombshell Roulette Championship but then again I don't book the matches. Maybe Mark and Christian' should start a Kickstarter campaign for you to never get another title match again, but I'm not holding my breath.

I know you're ready and waiting. I know you see blood in the water and are just ready for the final kill. I hope you get that chance but just know that  you're going to be in for a long night because on Sunday, you're not getting Mercedes Vargas, the SCW Hall of Famer. You're not getting Mercedes Vargas, the only 12-time champion in history. You're not getting Mercedes Vargas, the Argentine Assassin. What you're getting, Bea, is just a Bombshell, a Latina, a woman. A dangerous woman with nothing to lose, so play that hand, roll the dice, and we'll see if the house wins.

I may not be in the main event scene, or holding a title, or even the top title, but that still doesn't mean I can't mess your day up. Yeah, I'm in a slump. Yeah, I only have one win to my name, but you know that can't last forever, and you should be downright scared, you should be damn near terrified. You really don't know what you got yourself into. Any doubts you have about my competitive drive before Climax Control will disappear when I whip your ass like a red-headed stepchild, cabrón because I will be damned if you’re going to beat me. And yet I rolled through the punches when most would have cracked or given up. Fighting and surviving go hand in hand and that is what makes my resilience unstoppable than any opponent standing in my way. I don't give up, I don't give in, I don't back down and I sure as hell don't quit. Because if I can deal with all of that, if I can survive all of that in almost two years since I got here, Bea, than I can survive beating you this Sunday. I've faced worst odds, battled through cracked ribs and being put through flaming tables. I've dodged the shots fired by every mealy mouth bitch on the roster. And for every loss, I get up, dust myself off and keep going. Nothing hasn't changed.

So, Bea Barnhart, do your worst, because even at your best, I'll be prepared for it. Like it or not, believe it or not, Lady Luck won't be helping you this time around so you might as well prepare for the disappointment heading your way. There's no getting over, under, around or through it.

Prepare for the worst, hope for the best...

And may the odds be ever in your favor.

>~~~

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

The strain of violin music floats in the night air. The exclusive restaurant is relatively quiet for a Thursday evening with the chatter of other guests enjoying their dinner and the quality service that a competitive establishment demands. Mercedes, Ricardo, and Tomas are already at a table in the Chinese restaurant

Mercedes: They're still performing? I don't get it. Can they still be New Kids if they are damn near 50?

Tomas: If Vanilla Ice can still hit Ice Ice Baby and Smashmouth can perform at a motorcycle festival, than I don't think we should cancel 2020 just yet.

Ricardo: They cancelled everything else.

Mercedes: Anyone ever tell you should run for mayor?

Ricardo: Politics, not my thing.

Mercedes: Where is someone? I'm starving.

Ricardo: We're kind of low on funds and the check is here. Where's the manager?

Tomas gestures across the room.

Tomas: I think that's the manager over there.

Ricardo: You thinking what I'm thinking?

Tomas: Dine-and-dash?

Mercedes: Excuse me? Oh, no, no. I will not play in your reindeer games. What if we got caught?

Ricardo: What if we don't?

Mercedes: I can't go to jail. Nothing good ever happens there.

Ricardo: So you have been to jail before? Who knew Mercedes was a jailbird?

Mercedes: It wasn't my fault, first of all. Secondly, my brother scared people in the airport when he ordered a Jägerbomb at the airport and someone overhead and caused a scene. Come on, Richie. We're better than this.

Ricardo: Well unless we can split 100 dollars, we're planning our getaway.

Mercedes: Where's Hugo?

Tomas: I don't know, he said he was running late or something. I'll have to call him, tell him we're we are. 

Ricardo: Look, if we don't get going, we're not going to make it to the movie. So are you in or not?

Mercedes: Really? Is that a risk you want to take?

Ricardo: Yes. Watch and learn, my friends, watch and learn.

Ricardo pulls back his chair, makes a spin move to avoid a waitress and calmly walks towards the exits. A female receptionist and two waiters greet him.

Receptionist: Can I help you?

Ricardo: Uh, yeah. Could you tell me what year this is on the Chinese calendar? I'm not sure if it's the Year of the Rabbit or The Year of the Cat.

The woman starts talking to the two waiters in Chinese. Ricardo understandably is confused even trying to catch on. She smiles at Ricardo.

Receptionist: How would you like to spend the night washing dishes?

Smiling nervously, Ricardo backs away gracefully and promptly returns to the table where Mercedes and Tomas looked on.

Tomas: What happened?

Ricardo: Looks like we're going to take a raincheck on that movie, guys.

Mercedes: Ugh! This is why we can't have nice things!

>~~~

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

[size=10]It's Not Whether You Win or Lose: Gatekeeper the Sixteenth: Mentiras, Malditas Mentiras (Lies, Damned Lies...)[/size]

[REC•]

"Some things are better left unsaid, but you can bet I'm going to say it anyway. I can't help being who I am."

The camera tilts upward, showing Mercedes Vargas at Santa Monica Pier walking along the pier. There's a low tide on the beach west of here as we see several tourist spending a lazy weekend.

"So I've been doing a lot of thinking this week, a lot of soul searching after my loss to Christina. Which is why I came here."

Mercedes turns her side and points at the Pier. 

"I came here to find peace of mind, but also absolution. I think back to our match two weeks ago and I wonder if Christina will ever forgive me for how I treated her over the years. Despite the fact that I can answer my own question, the way I see it, she can really give a shit just so long as she walked away with another win at my expense. It's Christina. And I'm going to leave it at that.

"I didn't think I would have a match this weekend, certainly didn't think it would be against someone I've never faced before, but here we are. Now, I can't say I know Bea Barnhart personally, but I'm willing to bet she's gotta be loving this. Sure our match is early in the show and this is supposedly some kind of proving ground match to see if we're worthy to be chosen for the big battle royal coming up to decide who Evie faces next for her World Bombshell Championship, but it's more than likely we're also fighting for her entertainment.

"And the all-important 18-34 male demographic. Because, you know, they're people too."

She shrugs her shoulders. Besides making the social media trends, the demo is the most important in wrestling circles these days. At least, that's what she's seen in more mainstream companies these days.

"I can understand how some people are wondering, 'Well, by golly, how in the world did Mercedes get into this match? Surely, SCW could do better'. Surely, they could have chosen someone else, right? I'm not really sure if she's pulling an act or if she's really that stupid, but she's made a believer out of me."

Could you imagine if Mercedes were to lose? Her reputation would be ruined. Her street cred would be revoked. She'd have end-of-days depression! We can't go that far, but it is possible

"Don't get me wrong, I fully expect Bea to give her all and put up as much of a struggle as she can, but in the end, it won't matter. It's obvious that she needs this match in the worst way, but there's not much more I can say that's going to change the outcome Sunday. She's not competition, she's not even a contender. What she is, is just a fringe in the division whose existence doesn't matter in the least unless the top brass remembers she's still on the company payroll. In any event, Bea is rearing to go. She wants to live up to her namesake, and I kinda hope she does. She hasn't had the best of luck since she debuted but the girl has more wins then I do, so there's that."

She runs a hand through her hair. She knew this wasn't going to be easy with the slump she was in, but hell or high water, Mercedes Vargas was going to make it to Climax Control.

"Bea, I'm almost surprised you've stuck it out for this long because most girls like you usually don't last, but kudos to you. Thing is, we're kind of in the same boat, aren't we? You haven't exactly been setting the world on fire and the last time you won a singles match was back at the first pay-per-view of the year. Are you sure running your mouth is such a good idea? Shake your head no, Bea.

"It's not a good idea, sweetheart. And this weekend, you're about to find out why that is. And maybe, just maybe, a little humility will be good for you. I know it will be for me.

I can't lose to you. I'm Mercedes Vargas. And you're... well, you're Bea Barnhart. Don't worry, I'll remind you where your place is on the SCW roster. It will be my honor."

Mercedes crosses her arms and looks away defiantly, before looking back at the camera.

"Long before you knew, and long after you remember."

"See you Sunday!"

***Fade***

 Blog: Almighty Fire

semana del 14 al 21 de junio de 2 0 2 0

So here we are.

A little more than two weeks removed from another SCW pay-per-view, and I walked out with nothing to show for it. Or did I? At Into the Void, six women fought, scratched and clawed their way to scale a 15-foot ladder and grab what essentially was a golden opportunity that was too good to pass up. Six women entered the Queen for a Day ladder match, but only one left as the last woman standing. Given the amount of talent involved, whoever won the match would have had bragging rights for life.

Excuses, I have none. Regrets, none in the slightest. Jealousy, unbridled revenge, sorry, can't say there is any.

I never made any promises to win Queen for a Day, and even if I did, I'm definitely not getting bent out of shape just because a match didn't go my way. I'm better than that. I'll give credit where it's due, the stars aligned for Christina Rose and she made the best of the situation. Does it change the fact that she's already been eaten alive the second the card for this weekend was made public? No. Do I enjoy the fact that this was bound to happen? No. Of all people, Christina deserved bet -

Oh, who am I kidding, it couldn't have happened to a nicer person. It's only so nice that she thought of placing me on the card against someone I have never faced before.

How do I feel about facing Amber Ryan? I don't know, I'm not sure. Amber is coming off a loss at the supercard too, but while Myra was the better woman in their match, Amber is the better wrestler. I'm pretty sure she wanted to be both, but, hey, you can't win them all, right?

"It’s too early in her run to know how Amber will fare in SCW, but I have a feeling about this one. She's an unusual girl, she really marches to the beat of her own drum. She is different. Different is good. I think after the last few video submissions I've seen from her, she also has quite the mouth on her. I can already tell we're going to be the best of friends."

And this Sunday, Amber, maybe fortune will smile on you because you’re facing someone who isn't having a great year.  But make no mistake about it – I may not be where I should be right now in SCW in terms of wins and losses, but there's a reason why I give the rest of the women's division nightmares when their name is across from mine on a typical card.  

I remember when I used to be the new girl on the block in the Bombshells Division, the night I had my debut match is still fresh in my mind till this day. I could tell you about my titles and accolades, the championships I've won, the numerous records I've set and broken, the milestones I've reached, everything I've done in my career, including outside of this company, but, really, where's the fun in that? You've been just as successful, if not more so. You certainly didn’t become a multi-time champion just by sitting around and drinking piña coladas with little umbrellas. You are what they call a commodity. Most people wouldn't know me from Eve. I would say that for all our differences, we're a lot a like, but that would be crazy talk. We couldn't BE more different. When someone steps into the ring against you, it's going to be a war. You like to fight first and ask questions later. I like to think I have an excellent mat game and I am quick on my feet, maybe not as I used to be, and I'm not afraid to take risks either. You're a redhead, I'm a brunette. Stereotypes aside -  and, I mean, they could be true, probably not, but they could be - redheads might not have more fun, but their definitely more interesting. And while blondes claim to have more fun, we brunettes take care of business.

I’ve sacrifice more than just my own blood, sweat and tears to get to where I am today. Attention, opportunity, trust, and RESPECT. I worked for it. I earned it. I deserve it. If anything, I'm consistent. Maybe I'll never be as high, or as low, but I'm able to stay in the game always. I never give people a chance or an opportunity to miss me, so if you can't handle me at my worst, you don't deserve me at my best, either the fans and the other Bombshells takes me for granted or they don't.

I may not be headlining shows, I may not be in the main events, I may not be one of the top stars here or hold the top title, but I can promise you that Amber and I will make this match worth the price of admission. It's up to everyone else to try and top it.

2020. We're living in strange times. I haven't had much to cheer about since the year started. This year will go down as maybe one of my toughest yet in SCW. Exciting times.

I'm just trying to keep my head above water, but you know I guess what they say is true.

If you're born to be hanged, you'll never be drowned.

~~~

L A S V E G A S • N E V A D A

Saying that the first half of 2020 for Mercedes Vargas have been crappy is, well, an understatement. Things were bad enough when she let opportunities slipped through her fingers, but for the most part, this year was already coming off the rails. Losing to rookies half her age, being the victim of Christina's vendetta against her, having to put up with people besmirching her name all the while just trying to survive. Maybe taking out her frustrations on a referee would do wonders for her career. It worked for Bobbie Dahl, suspensions be damned (though the punishment really seemed to be slaps on the wrists than just making an example of someone). She's surprised the powers that be haven't docked her paycheck after that.

Today she should wash her hair, but time is not on her side. It was one of those mornings when she hit the snooze button one too many times.

Mercedes always thought that if she forgot all the bad things that happened to her this year it was inevitable that she would forget all the good things, too. She never thought that focusing so much on the bad things would attract the wrong things in life.

You have boyfriend?  

Brushing her teeth at the sink, Mercedes was in no mood for talk and was unpleasantly surprised at her mother's question.

Mercedes: Can we not?

Mercedes spits out a mouthful of toothpaste.

Estelle: So you do have boyfriend?

Mercedes: Again, can we not?

Mercedes grabs a hairbrush  and works with whatever hair clips, bobby pins and elastic hairbands she could find to come up with a simple updo.

Estelle: Got a date?

Mercedes looks away from the mirror, at her from her laptop.

Mercedes: What?

Estelle: Well, only time you have hair fancy is when you're on hot date.

Mercedes: I'm going to hang up the phone if you can’t stop nagging because I didn’t visit enough this year.

Estelle: You never call, you never write. It's like I don't even know you anymore.

Mercedes: ¡Basta ya! Estoy así de cerca!
Enough already! I am this close to leaving!

Estelle: Por favor, no vayas.
Please, don't go. Pararé, lo prometo.

Mercedes: Listen, there's something I want to talk to you about. I wasn't ready until now but I think it's time.

Estelle: It's finally happening, you're getting married, aren't you?

Estelle holds a hand to her heart and is overcome with emotion. Mercedes settles for an eyeroll as Estelle trails off in Spanish, dabbing her eyes with a handkerchief.

Estelle: This is wonderful news mija. I almost lost hope in you.

Mercedes: Thanks, mom. But that's not what I was going to -

Estelle: You're coming out of the closet, aren't you?

Mercedes glares at her mother.

Mercedes: Christ, mom! Can you BE any less insensitive!?! No, that's not it either!

Estelle: Then why are you calling? I'm in the middle of watching telenovelas.

Mercedes: You win. You finally get what you want, but it's been a long time coming.

Estelle is paralyzed to even move, let alone look away from her obsessed face as she continues to listen in awkward, confined silence

Mercedes: I'm done, I'm calling it a career.

Estelle is still a little confused.

Mercedes: That little "intervention" you had, on Thanksgiving, the one night a year where we get to enjoy each other's company and engage in a roundtable discussion about what we're most thankful for? I guess it finally worked. Sure, it was four years ago, but who cares, right? Everybody wins! Carmen telling me to walk away? She gets her wish. Dad never wanted me to wrestle, but did I listen? No. I guess I'll be seeing him and you a lot more often now.

Estelle starts giving this apologetic look.

Estelle: But mija, wrestling is your life. Me and your dad, your brother, your cousin, we may not agree with it in the beginning, but things change. We cheer for you on show day, we try to make it to shows when we're able to. Of course, we can't now because of the pandemic, but still. You're successful, have been for a long time. Whatever decision you make, will be the right one.

Estelle takes up a whine glass and pours herself some sherry.

Estelle: I need a drink.

Mercedes was getting tired of the cold and eagerly waiting summer. But this summer was going to bring more than sunshine and easy days at the beach because something was lurking in the air - COVID-19.

COVID-19 doesn't care. It doesn't discriminate. It doesn't care about race or orientation. It doesn't care about hypocrisy. It doesn't care about income. It doesn't care when sports, concerts, or events come back, if ever. It doesn't care about politics or  party affliction. It doesn't care about protests. It doesn't care about seasons or holidays. It just doesn't care.

Mercedes closes her laptop.

At this point. She just didn't care either.

***Fade***

~~~

Present Day • L A S V E G A S • N E V A D A

It's Not Whether You Win or Lose: Gatekeeper the Thirteenth: Mockingbirds the Second: El ruido y la furia (The Sound and the Fury)

[REC•]

"Some things are better left unsaid, but you can bet I'm going to say it anyway. I can't help being who I am."

The camera tilts upward, revealing Mercedes Vargas looking straight into the camera. We find the Argentine and SCW Hall of Famer wearing her authentic t-shirt.[/

“You know, if I didn’t know any better, I'd thought this match would have been more exciting, but turns out it’s been anything but. Maybe it’s just me?" 

Mercedes shrugs her shoulders.

"Maybe I'm anxious and just want to get this match with Amber Ryan over with, even though we're less than a two days from the fallout show from Into the Void from two weeks ago. Could be I'm a little weary from the hell I went through in the Queen for a Day ladder match. A match that, yes, Christina Rose won. I won't take that away from her. She did what she had to and got the win. Looking at what's in store this weekend, I sure as hell didn't have "Christina hands wife main event title match opportunity", "Christina finds loophole to get world title match" or "Christina Rose: One-Woman Show" on my 2020 bingo card."

She tilts her head and offers a slow applause.

"I bet it didn't take long for Christina to come up with the card for this weekend's show. Call it a hunch, but I knew that I was going to be punished because that is the kind of vindictive person she is. See, I know I'm not going to have an easy time of it in my match with Amber. She is good as advertised. She's kind of a big deal. She is what they call a household name in this business, a hot commodity, a brand. Any company who has her on their roster already know they're getting a killer. When she needs a place to work, she doesn't need to call them to be on their roster, they call her and demand that she's on theirs. On one hand, Amber is another kettle of fish, on the other she's a big fish in a small pond, or maybe a big fish in a bigger pond, depending on who you ask. Alicia deserves a medal for getting her to sign to SCdub because while the Bombshells Division has the best collection of female wrestlers right now, it's even more better with Amber in it. So it's not lost on me why Christina will be salivating at the chance to see someone finally put me in my place, and I wouldn't even put it pass Amber for the honor, because only a fool wouldn't see that Christina only wants to soften me up before she finishes the job.

Sure, we may have been in different circles, but you may be surprised to know that I've heard about Amber, even before the ink dried on her SCW contract. I doubt she liked being used like a library book to further whatever master plan Christina has cooked up, but then again when you have someone like Amber on the roster, you don't need an excuse for your next kill."

Mercedes swipes a hand over face. The once proud smile she had has transformed into a serious expression.

“But you want to know the real reason why Christina wants a match with me? It's not because she thinks this match at Summer XXXtreme will happen on her terms or that she has a superior record against me in SCW or even that she thinks I give two shits what imaginary threats she want to throw my way on social media. No, it's because Christina Rose, Williams, Hilton, Millar, Lopez, Zdunich,  fears Mercedes Vargas. I'm not going to be intimidated or shamed. She wants to make me a target, I say make my day. One opponent, two opponents, three opponents, send in the whole damn roster for all I care."

Mercedes holds up her hands in reservation, shaking her head.

"Show of hands, who else thought Christina was going to change once she finally claimed her identity? Because she didn't prove me wrong about everything I said about her, she proved me right. She's a narcissist, she's a liar, she's a bully, she manipulates to get her own way, she plays the victim card when she feels threatened. She can't continue to hide behind a real mental condition and make people think she's a good person, because she's not, far from it, no matter what her complicit wife says. Winning Queen for a Day may have magnified all those evils by a thousand.

Christina has said in numerous promos, she grew up in this business. This business is in her blood, she's third generation. At one point of her life, in her teens, she was learning the ropes from her father. I'm sure he is beaming with pride.

When you're a 16-time world champion, a four-time Hall of Famer, and the daughter of a wrestling legend you can excuse the way Christina does things. When you’re just starting out and trying to make your name like I did, you don’t have that luxury.

A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.

What I can't admit, can't accept, and can't get over is how his third-generation daughter can be so thick-skinned. Christina seems to have it out for me because of some things I said about her. She always paints this picture that I'm the bad guy because of some perceived slight that I just don't like her. Look at the people she's been in the ring with, the things other Bombshells have said on record about her. I'm sure Alicia Lukas has said much worse, Andrea Hernandez has said much worse, Roxi Johnson has said much worse, even her bestie Sydney Knite has said much worse when they were opponents on occasion. I wonder how I got to the top of this dance card?

"One minute she says she's about giving chances and giving opportunities to those who deserve it in SCW, the next she sets a bounty on my head and goes as far as giving an ultimatum to face her at the next supercard. Now, Summer XXXtreme is five weeks away. Anything can happen between now and August 2, but the question that I need to ask about that and about my match this weekend is what did I do to deserve this? I can't be that special. Christina can play the victim, but I won't. I won't give her the pleasure and she won't get the satisfaction.

"Mujeres fuerte, mujeres reales, no le juegues a la víctima, no se hagan ver lastimosos, no señale a nadie, y admite cuando se equivoca.

Strong women, real women, don't play the victim, don't make themselves look pitiful, don't point fingers, and admits when she's wrong.

"Christina can pull out the punk card as to why a match between us isn't going to happen, she can claim my age has something to do with it - yes, I'm about to turn the big 4-0 four days after my match happens - but does it change the fact that even at my age that I accomplished more in SCW then everything she's done in her career? Does it change the fact that even past my prime, I can still still beat any girl here in their prime?

OK, so the days where I could drink whatever I want without having a terrible hangover the next day are long gone and maybe I've said "I'm getting too old for this" a time or two when I see something stupid, but is that so wrong?

Or maybe Christina is one of those "don't trust anyone over 30" crowds? Surely she's one to talk when she's seven years younger than me. We were inducted into the Hall of Fame at the same time, but I'm not surprised that people will say she's had the better career. Your miles may vary." 

Mercedes snaps her finger, remembering something. 

"Speaking of birthdays, I hear a special someone is celebrating a birthday today. Is that you, Amber? If you had told me earlier I would have bought you a present. Well, it's never too late for gifts so I guess our match will just have to do. And what better way to celebrate than with friends, right? Maybe not in a soldout arena, but a small gathering works too. I can't wait to give you the birthday beatings this weekend. I don't think I'm going to stop at 31 though, but you can handle it, can't you, sweetheart? You don't just play a tough girl on TV. I know that you hit hard, kick hard and you're a glutton for both taking and dishing out punishment, but I can hit and kick hard with the best of them. Don't let the looks fool you. I'm smarter than you think, stronger than I look, and notice more than you realize.  Feel free to underestimate me at your risk.

Sweetheart. I have nothing to prove. I’ve done it ALL. It’s not about me. At least I’m not trying to make it happen that way. But I can’t help that I’m a force of nature.

Few would mistake her arrogance for confidence, but it never stopped her before, and it damn sure wasn't going to happen now.

"Christina says she wants to make my life a living hell, but she knows that I can make her feel like she's living in one. She knows deep down inside, within every fiber of her being, that the only way she's going to get me in the same ring with her is in her wildest dreams, but that won't even happen in reality.

"The reality is I'm ready to take Amber to the distance and I'm going to make her work hard for the victory. The reality for Christina is I'm still here, still standing and, yes, still talking. When I go out into that ring Sunday night, when I give it my all, when I lay it out on the line, there is no one that's going to stop me. And I'll let you off with this, Christina, and I mean every word.”

Mercedes goes quiet for a moment as she lowers her head. She lets out a sigh before raising her head again.

“You may be 'Queen for a Day', but sweetheart you damn sure aren't the queen of me. So put this in your royal proclamation, bitch: you better hope Amber takes me out. Because if she fails, it's going to be your hands.

Long live the Queen."

Mercedes makes a heart symbol with her hands and that's the last image we see of her before she reaches to turn off the camera as the scene fades.

 L A S V E G A S • N E V A D A
Saxon Hotel

The Saxon hotel and casino reflects the last sunlight of the day along the Las Vegas Strip. In her hotel room, Mercedes is seen on a video call on her laptop with Marta, her favorite hairdresser. Like most of the world at large, she's wearing a facemask.

Mercedes: I am so depressed.

Marta: What, why? What's wrong?

Mercedes: What's wrong? Didn't you hear? Coronavirus is going to be around for TWO YEARS! I don't think I can handle two months much less two years!

Marta: Things aren't looking good here in New York. No bars, restaurants, movie theaters, all closed. At least you're in a five-star hotel. I'm a little jealous.

Mercedes: Don't be. It’s not all glitz and glam as you might think. I’m trying to stay positive. I mean, it could be worse—I could be stuck in an airport or cruise ship somewhere, end up homeless, or I could actually have coronavirus. That's not a future I want to live in right now.

Marta: The one thing that's keeping me sane is my Netflix subscription. What's good right now?

Mercedes: I hear Tiger King is good, but I'm just getting into Elite. Friends and Grey's Anatomy are mandatory viewing.

Marta: Just when the salon is breaking even, this pandemic starts. Now I'm out of a job and I just might have to close up shop.

Mercedes: That sounds awful.

Marta: It is awful, but what are you going to do? At least you got something to keep you sane. How's your wrestling career going, still winning lately?

Mercedes: Not as much as I like to, but I have a title match coming up this weekend so maybe things will turn around. This pandemic, not so much.

Marta: Did you win your last match?

Mercedes: Is the Pope Catholic?

Marta: I didn't hear anything lately from the Vatican. How are you feeling?

Mercedes: Three weeks ago, disappointed. This weekend, just a little disappointed then I was last week.

Marta: You'll get over it, that's just crazy talk. Anyway, I just remembered I got to run.

Mercedes: Yeah, why?

Marta: It's 11 pm here. 3 hour difference between Brooklyn and Vegas. Good luck in your match, though.

Mercedes: Thanks, I'm probably going to need it.

***Fade***.

~~~

Blog: Almighty Fire

semana del 26 de abril del 1 de mayo de 2 0 2 0

Winning.

It's about the most basic human need there is.

More than safety. More than acceptance. More than respect. More than improvement.

Maybe there's a little satisfaction there too. Who doesn't want to have a little bragging rights after a good night at the poker table or on the golf course or in a board game?

Winning just feels good.

It's sure better than losing.

I've lost more than 80 matches in my career, I'm been in 148 matches, lost more than half of them. I've been in 58 title matches, I've lost more two-thirds of those matches. You look at my stats and I have the MOST LOSSES out of any female active on the roster not named Jessie Salco. That's not something worth celebrating.

But it's 'Oh, it’s Mercedes Vargas.'

Look, I'm not going to hide it. I've had a lot of success over the years, that much can't be argued. Some people say I'm entitled, others say I'm a transitional champion - that's a new one - still others say it's time for me to retire. That one isn't as new, but it does leave me intrigued.

What do I say?

You can question my methods and victories, you can think I'm arrogant or a bit of a bitch, but you can never EVER question my resolve. And for the women in the division who's sick and tired of hearing about my accolades? Well, I'm never sick and tired of repeating them. And unless they can top them, then I guess their just going to have to deal with it.

The best ability is availability. It's a blessing and a curse, at least for me. It's the stigma of my accolades and number of championships. I’m consistent and a workaholic, but people treat it as a bad thing.

That's why I shake my head when I hear things like "You know? I'm not mad. I had a great fight!'

Keira's words, not mine.

Good for her. Humble in victory, gracious in defeat. Not that Keira is either of these things but a girl can dream.

So, the next time Keira falls flat on her face in another title match, which happens very soon, she won't take her ball and run home? Unburdened by fear of failure, there won't be any grumbles and gripes from her on social media hours after the match or the morning after? No more whining to Mark or Christian about getting that world title match?

You know? I'm not mad. I had a great fight!

I get it, Christina Rose is capable of getting a good match out if anyone. Just don't let her hold on to world titles, because she tends to, you, know...

Choke.

Now, it’s one thing to have that mentality, but to say that out loud is totally different. Don't get me wrong here, friendships are important to all of us, but that shouldn't be the only reason why we compete in the ring every weekend for 11 months out of  the year.    

Fans aren’t rooting for their favorite wrestler to make lifelong bonds in the locker room and then just go out there and have some fun. That’s great if they do, and it certainly adds an extra dynamic to fandom, but in the end they really just want to see their wrestler win, matches or championships.

Losing sucks, but the difference is great wrestlers don't lose for very long. I'm not saying losing is OK, but comments like that just makes me shake my head. Some wrestlers on the SCW roster are happy, as long as the check clears. Others are just here to see their BFFs and  not much else.

With a roster filled with over 20 women and more coming in, winning a championship is the ultimate prize. You do that multiple times and you become something of a legend.

There's a few first-time champions right now and I'm almost sure they know that they have a giant target on their back. They got there because they took down the  defending champs.  

When I see Candy, Johanna Krieger, and Andrea Hernandez holding championships this early in their careers, that doesn't tell me a new era is coming to SCW, it doesn't mean the Bombshells Division is about to get a makeover, and I'm almost sure some of the Bombshells who have been here for awhile aren't worrying about whether they will even have a job tomorrow. My job is pretty simple, I'm just here to be the gatekeeper of the Bombshells Division.

Candy has been an impressive champion, maybe the best champion fans and wrestlers alike are not watching. Whether you believe the previews to our match or not, Candy did ask for a title match this weekend. I think we were both surprised that our names were across from each other.

I've done almost everything that a woman could possibly do in SCDub and, in some cases, did so before a lot of women on the roster had the chance to do them. All I have left to do is win the Blast From the Past Tournament, but at this point, I get why fans and the Bombshell locker room are resentful of my success.

To win the Bombshell Roulette Championship for a fifth time? Well, that would cement my legacy and to add to my historic career. Some people like Kate Steele think that winning the Bombshell Roulette Championship is a step down in your career, that winning that championship means that you've taken a step back in your career or that the bosses no longer have faith that you're world title material. I find it funny that Kate has been missing in action from the world title scene when Kate was embarrassed in her hometown last year.

Just goes to show, when you think you've arrived when you haven't, the Bombshells Division will humbly remind you. Just ask Keira Fisher-Johnson and Kate Steele.

I'm always hungry, but I'm never satisfied. Although being a twelve-time champion is great, I like being a thirteen-time champion even better. Come Sunday, I'm walking in a challenger, but I'm walking out champion once again.

And unfortunately for Candy, it's will be at her expense.

Long before she knew and long after she remember.

~~~

It's Not Whether You Win or Lose: Gatekeeper the Eighth

REC•]

Walking along the Vegas Strip on an otherwise clear seventy-degree afternoon in Las Vegas, Mercedes Vargas keeps her hair firmly hidden under a fedora while sporting her SCW authentic Mercedes t-shirt and skinny jeans as she turns away from looking at a water fountain and towards the camera.

"Some things are better left unsaid, but you can bet I'm going to say it anyway. I can't help being who I am.

"Oh, and you probably didn't know this, but went unpinned in SCW for 10 months."

As she says this, Mercedes holds up ten fingers.

"So, Blaze of Glory has come and gone. The four-way match didn't go my way, and, yeah, Keira got the best of me again, but did she look like a winner last week against Christina Rose? No, she didn't. Did she look like a winner the week after she pinned me in the triple threat with Seleana? No, Andrea beat her - again. Team Hero won on the first Climax Control of 2020, but did Keira walk out number one contender to World Bombshell Championship the next week? Nope, nope, and nope.

"If Keira keeps this up, I have serious doubts her title drought is going to last longer than the three years it's on already."  

She offers a indifferent shrug then a dismissive wave at the camera.

"Anyway, I'm getting a little off topic. This weekend I get an opportunity to add to my legacy by becoming Bombshell Roulette Champion, but Candy isn't going to make this easy. She's ready. She feels like she can't be beat. She's feels like she beaten so many odds. She feels invincible. Those are good feelings to have before every match. Every woman holding a title right now knows what it's like.

Mercedes puts an index finger up.

"You don't have to tell me that Candy will fight like a caged animal to keep that championship she held for more than three months now. She might be fired up for this one but I don't need to get ready, I stay ready.

But let's clear the air and set the record straight on a few misconceptions you may or may not heard about me, Candy. First of all, Argentina is not a communist country. I can't count how many times I have to tell people that. Secondly, don't let the looks fool you. I may be smiling now, but I'm dead serious: I'm not going to roll over and play dead just for you. And thirdly, I'm not an immigrant. I do have my long form birth certificate and, yes, I can provide xerox copies upon request.

Mercedes, now clearly animated, focuses her gaze to the camera.

"There are many things you could say about me. You could say that I've been coasting along in my career or that I haven't faced real competition.  Maybe you'll downplay my accomplishments and make this more about your accomplishments, which are well deserved for you as well. Maybe you'll make fun of my name – although that doesn't tend to piss me off like it use to early in my career, but it doesn't stop people from doing it – or where I'm from or even the various companies I've worked for, or even the fact that I'm in my thirties, supposedly past my prime, and should quit while I'm ahead and simply retire. And you know what, that's okay, that's fine. I'm not too bothered by it."

Mercedes offers an nonchalant shrug while mouthing the word "sorry" before continuing.

"Now, you may be younger and think you're faster. I may be a little bit older than you, but I'm definitely smarter and wiser than you, sweetheart. Because for the first time ever, you're in a match where you're not the favorite. We'll find out a lot of things come Sunday. You get to step in the ring with this porteña, with this Latina, and you're going to have yourself a long night ahead of you.

"Are you thinking what I'm thinking?

"This won't be so totally awesome."

***Fade***

 M I A M I, F L O R I D A

At Starbucks. Mercedes enjoys her usual: skinny dirty soy chai latte size tall. A young priest sits at her table, setting down his order. She sees his collar.

Mercedes: You must be busy.

Priest: About to be busier.

Mercedes: Have you already had service?

Priest: Funeral today. Evening services tonight. A service tomorrow morning.

Mercedes pushes her coffee towards him.

Mercedes: Here. You might need this more than me.

Priest: Really?

She nonchalantly shrugs her shoulders, adding a smile.

Mercedes: Unless, it's offensive for us being here. You know, that whole Starbucks - Planned Parenthood thing....

As soon as she said that, Mercedes covers her face in embarrassment.

Mercedes: I'm sorry. I didn't mean to offend you.

Priest: No. What's offensive is that so many Christians are worried about offending other people. For that, I'M sorry!

Mercedes shakes the priest's hand.

Mercedes: Thank you Father.

Priest: Thank you sister.



T A M P A, F L O R I D A
The Day of My Bloody Valentine PPV

Florida weather is said to be the best all year round. With the exception of the occasional cold front or the Olympic spectacle known as hurricane season, odds are pretty good that you will never have to reach for a jacket anytime soon. February is the second coldest month of the year in the state. The last few weeks in winter are almost coming to an end. Today, the wind has picked up here in Tampa as the cameras open up to a shot of the Yuengling Center on the campus of the University of South Florida and the home floor of the Bulls men and women's basketball teams. Inside the building, we see the arena being set up for tonight's big event, namely My Bloody Valentine, the third event ever for Sin City Wrestling and the first show since the last one four years ago. That it was coming to the Tampa Bay area for the first time was a big deal.

It's just after 2:30 in the afternoon. Outside at the parking lot, Mercedes Vargas, in a total black outfit consisting of black skinny jeans, paired with a basic shirt and a black leather jacket, does a mental checklist of her belongings before she heads for the arena while maneuvering a rolling tote bag and luggage.

Before entering the arena, she is checked in with a metal detecting wand then steps through the metal detector when an employee of the school waves her through.  

Showtime was only hours away.

T A M P A, F L O R I D A
Backstage at the Yuengling Center

"I don't know why Florida gets a bad rap. I get there are retirees and most people are from up North..."

"Come on, not all Floridians are old, spend time in amusment parks, or live by the beach."

Vargas sits tall in a director's chair while Janet the makeup artist adds a second coat of mascara. The Argentine's makeup is classic. Black liner, warm undertone foundation, a tasteful nude lip. As Vargas' lashes are curled, she chats with an SCW producer while thumbing through her cellphone.

MERCEDES: I'm not saying tooling around on your boat or laying by the beach is boring or anything. There's Disney World, Sea World, South Beach. You get to wear shorts and t-shirts 365 days a year. What's not to like?"

PRODUCER: So, is this your first time in Tampa or first visit to Florida?

MERCEDES: No, actually. I think I've been to Florida 13 times. Well, tonight makes it 14. I've been to Miami, Pensacola, Jacksonville, Daytona Beach, Estero, Orlando, well technically Bay Lake, West Palm Beach. Oh, and Tampa.

PRODUCER: How long has it been since the last trip?

MERCEDES: Um, 2011ish, I think? So nine years, give or take. It's been awhile.

PRODUCER: Favorite thing about Tampa?

MERCEDES: It's going to be plenty busy over the next year or so. There's SCW's pay-per-view tonight, then I hear another company is having their pay-per-view at Raymond James Stadium next month.

PRODUCER: Raymond James isn't far from here. 30 minutes or so.

MERCEDES: Right. They got the Super Bowl next year, too. How crazy is that?

PRODUCER: How do you feel about tonight, nervous?

MERCEDES: Confident.

Mercedes puts down her phone.

MERCEDES: I have five opponents to get through tonight, and I'm making sure I'm the last woman standing on top of that ladder, whatever it takes.

A fluffy makeup brush sweeps off the smidge of foundation in quick, broad strokes. Mercedes receives the last touches of makeup and the occasional touch-up in her hair before she's free to leave.

MERCEDES: Time flies when you're having fun. I've gotta run.



T A M P A, F L O R I D A
Backstage at the Yuengling Center

Two hours have come and gone since the opening bell to My Bloody Valentine. New contenders were crowned, The Three Way and Candy retained their respective championships, Wolfslair ended the night draped in gold, The Nobility and Andrea Hernandez were also winners tonight. And now the final third of the 15-match card was just under way.

Mercedes is not too far from the curtain, already suited up in her ring gear. She gets herself psyched for the night that is to come. For the last time we get her thoughts.

MERCEDES: You know, as successful as I've been over the years, I still find it funny that people still count me out. People counted me to beat Sam Marlowe at Into the Void for the Bombshell Roulette Championship, they counted me out to beat London Underground for the Mixed Tag Titles, they even counted me out in regaining the titles against them and Sam and Caleb, and each time I proved them wrong.

Mercedes turns her attention to the curtain just in time as Halo Williams walks through, the night ending with the Combat Championship, her newest title, over her shoulder. Mercedes watched as she walked pass, no doubt knowing that she will enjoying her flight back home.

MERCEDES: See that? That's how I want my night to end, wearing gold. Everyone thinks they're the favorite to win, and I'm no different. I don't care who I'm going through, but I'm coming out of that match the two-time Bombshell Internet Champion. I've champion before. I know that I can do so again tonight."

In a matter of moments, six challengers will be after the same thing in what will be a very crowded match. But only one will grab the spotlight. She hoped it was her. In fact, she would make sure it was be.

PRODUCER: You know things won't be that easy. It's every woman for herself out there.

MERCEDES: So let me get this straight. What you're saying is to become Bombshell Internet Champion I have to beat five other women, climb a ladder, and then retrieve the championship?"

Mercedes raises an eyebrow.

Just then, her music starts playing as the crowd anticipates her arrival.

"Challenge accepted."



T A M P A, F L O R I D A
Backstage at the Yuengling Center

"Sometimes I don't think I can get any worse, than I go ahead and prove myself wrong. Story of my life, I guess."

My Bloody Valentine is in the books. Mercedes sat silent in her car, staring at her hands, which she moves to covering her face. The loss still deadpands her. She holds this despondent look for a moment before looking up, as if seeking some sign from above, then after a breath, she met the camera's gaze.

MERCEDES: I had that match...I had it. The title was just beyond my fingertips. I just seconds away from making history and....

Her deep brown eyes steady, her expression resolute.

MERCEDES: You know what, this isn't over. I will be back for that Internet Championship. Not a matter of if, but when. And if Kate Steele is still champion by then, she can kiss her title good-bye."



Blog: Almighty Fire

semana del 1 al 8 de marzo de 2 0 2 0

It wasn't bad. That's the good news.

It wasn't good, either. That's the bad news.

The Bombshell Internet Championship ladder match at My Bloody Valentine didn't go my way, but I can live with the result because when someone like Kate Steele winning just proves that anyone can get lucky. And let's face it, she's been more lucky than good through her career.

You know, as much as this "Going Home" Tour looked good on paper to Christian and Mark, the results haven't exactly been that great, at least for the hometown heroes since this tour began. Countless wrestlers had walked into their hometown with dreams of having their moment in the spotlight, only for everything to blow up in their face. So far, we've seen Alicia Lukas put on the shelf by Bobbie Dahl on the first show of the new year; The Barnharts embarrassed by The Trenton Tigers; Keira Fisher-Johnson failed to grab a world title opportunity - not like the girl stood much of a chance anyway; and Stephen Callaway walked out of last week's main event the same way he came in - with nothing to show for it.

Jessie Salco and Roxi are the only people who actually pulled it off, but beating Twisted Sister and Bobbi Dahl isn't really impressive when you think about it, and Violet never even fought, she was a special guest referee.

Celeste North, yes, the same one who once led the Mean Girls and who is now the top women's champ over in Sin City Underground, embarrassed Christina Rose the first chance she got in her hometown - that's Chrissie's actual hometown of Detroit - three years ago in April.

Jamie Dean is from Los Angeles, but I bet he probably wanted to dig a hole to hide in after he was defeated by Calvin Harris. Crystal also calls LA home and she did retain the World Bombshell Championship title at High Stakes VI that one time, but it was against Jessie Salco.

The only one who had any kind of a hometown send-off was Matthew Kennedy when, and he won the Roulette Championship - in a mud match. And how!

Now with that said, Climax Control is overseas for the second week and we continue our trip in the UK when we head up north to England. I've been fortunate to visit all four countries in the UK, but anytime I get an opportunity to visit England is special. I've heard there's 51 cities there, though I've been to only five and, yeah, it's the ones you would probably expect: Birmingham, Sheffield, Leeds, Manchester, and obviously, London, probably more times than I care to admit. Heading to York will be interesting.

This Sunday I get a match with the hometown girl, Apple Corren. You can pretty much guess how that's going to turn out, but I'm going to give Apple a fighting chance. She deserves at least that because anyone who has followed her SCW career have long dismissed her as an afternoon in the women's division, and that's a shame.

Apple is actually decent in the ring and it showed in her earlier matches when she started out. Maybe she just needs someone to take a chance on her. If SCW planned on making Apple a top star in the company, someone failed there. That makes me a sad panda. Apple deserves so much better. To go winless an entire year is a Jessie Salco move. The more I think about it, the more it makes me die a little inside.

Poor Apple. Poor Ivy. Poor fans who to watch this match.

Moral of the story?

If there's an show coming up in your hometown, chances are you're about to lose.

Wins means a little more when they happen in their hometown.

Apple picked the wrong week to have that match, especially when I'm pissed off.

Hope for the best, prepare for the worst...

And may the odds be ever in your favor.

~~~

It's Not Whether You Win or Lose: Gatekeeper the Fifth

Present Day • M I A M I, F L O R I D A

REC•]

The scene opens on a trio of men playing violin, each impeccably dressed in tuxedos. They play the second movement from Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 21 in C Major, otherwise known as "Elvira Madigan", with refined elegance and grace.

"Some things are better left unsaid, but you can bet I'm going to say it anyway. I can't help being who I am."

The camera pans slowly across to where we see Mercedes Vargas dressed in her 18th century getup from the last we see her in this costume. She daintly sips on Earl Grey tea.

"Oh, and you probably didn't know this, but I was undefeated in singles competition for 434 days."

She signals each number under with a gloved hand before she continues.

"There is just something about overseas tours that I get a kick out of. More often than not, sometimes it's about the little things, like my little jaunt through York this weekend for Climax Control 262. Should I be worried or excited? I don't know. And the only thing's for sure, is that nothing is for sure. My first Climax Control since the first show of the new year. The same show where I got injured by Bobbie Dahl and missed over a month worth of shows. I've got a lot of aggression to let out this weekend so the fact that I'm going to have to spoil Apple Corren's hometown reunion..."

Mercedes maintains a Mona Lisa smile as she takes up a cucumber sandwich.

"Well, I guesd that can't be helped now, could it?"

Mercedes then takes a sample bite before setting it on a tray.

"The last time Apple and I crossed paths, she was undefeated. The last time we crossed paths, Apple lost her first match while I went on to become the winningest female wrestler on Climax Control.

"This weekend lightning is about to strike twice because Apple, while your reputation proceeds you, being "rotten to the core" had taken on a whole new meaning, if we're taking your win-loss record as gospel.

Apple, it's been over a year and while the more things change, the more they stay the same. Kind of like you. It's been close to two years since you've been here, you still haven't won a championship. You still haven't win a match in that long, and you're last win was over Jessie Salco."

Mercedes unconsciously brushes away strands of her brown hair out of her face.

So sad.

"You can do better than that, and I hope you fo that this weekend because it's going to make you look bad in front of your adoring public, not that you care for them that much, but I wouldn't want to show my face again after this weekend.

A short pause here as Mercedes removes her bonnet as her wavy, brunette hair fell into her face.

***Fade***

 Blog: Almighty Fire

semana del 10 al 17 de noviembre de 2 0 1 9

What am I going to say that you haven’t already heard from me before? Chances are you probably heard it all before, so I'm going to get right into it. Last week was a little reminder to Keira Fisher-Johnson why no winning streak is safe when I'm around. I was the pin that made her winning streak go POP, and now I think I feel a little better.

This weekend is qualifying matches for December 2 Dismember and it seems like our resident side kick got the short straw in her own match. Well, I did my part. I'm sure Andrea Hernandez will finish the job at Climax Control.

As for me, my job seems pretty cut-and-dried. There's the six-pack challenge for the World Bombshell Championship at December 2 Dismember and all I have to do is get by Seleana Zdunich. Not exactly the way I pictured it, but if a picture is worth a thousand words, than this match speaks volumes.

"A lot of girls on the roster wish they were in my position right now instead of sitting at home. Believe me, never in my wildest dreams did I think we would meet under these circumstances, Seleana, but then again, maybe it's meant to be. 

Seems like we keep getting in each other's way, haven't we, Seleana? It's just as well. Tell you the truth, I kind of enjoy our encounters. Gives me something to look forward to each time we meet because nothing makes my day than just crushing your dreams. You think it has more to do with who you're married to and, well, while you're not entirely wrong, I will admit that I'm going to enjoy sending you home from this tournament. You've had one too many chances at chasing the world title as it is. Sunday, I'll be doing SCW and the world a huge favor by sending you home from this tournament. Because at the supercard you'll get to watch history while I'll be there to make it.

Last time you and I got together, nobody won, and that was more to you failing to beat me than me getting this close from embarrassing you for the second time. Sunday, you won't be lucky because we both have something to fight for, and I'm playing for keeps.

Opportunity knocks but once, and always at the least when you expect it. But what happens when you expect the unexpected? Success, that's what. And I've been more successful than every female wrestler to come through SCW, bar none. 2019 is no different.

December 2 Dismember is around the corner, Seleana, and before you know it, you’re going to find out why dreams sometimes don’t come true. Doesn't mean I think you won't stand a fighting chance, though. After all, Crystal taught you what you already know, but not everything she knows. Like how to be an ass-kisser, the 12 Step Program to talking to mirrors, and how to be overrated. But most of all, this Sunday, the world will witness the one thing you'll be associated for the one thing her family is ALL known for...

being choke artists.

Just for a second, I want you to think. Really think about what you're saying and what you're promising, Seleana, because we both know how this is going to end. Your usual spiel won't cut it. No one is going to believe it, much less listen to it. Nothing you said then, now, or in the future won't change anything because when it comes to you and me, everyone knows that you can't beat me. You being in this tournament is a joke at best and a sad charity case at worse. Sunday, I want you to know, without a doubt, what level you’re on. You will never be where I am. You will never be as good as me. And no matter what training you got from your wife, it won't change the outcome. It didn't when I spoiled your SCW PPV debut last year, and it won't now.

I told Keira that she better hope and pray that she got you as her opponent, but maybe that's true for you too. There's no divine miracle that's going to happen Sunday. Yes, we'll find out a lot of things come Sunday. You get to step in the ring with this porteña, with this Latina, and you're going to have yourself a long night ahead of you, and a long, lonely flight back to Los Angeles.

Some people say that I'm just all talk. They're only half-right.

The other half is I can back it up.

The date is set, the time has come, and your fate is sealed, Seleana. You're the last one standing between me and my chance at making history, And Sunday, you WILL be history!

Long before you knew, and long after you'll remember.

~~~

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


Mercedes opens the door to her apartment, though what she was seeing was unreal. The television was left on, the couch was bare as throw pillows scattered on the floor. Cheese puffs littered the coffee table and there was a glass left on the table – sans coasters. SANS COASTERS! Worse of all, she also found Francine there.

Mercedes: Um, what's going on here?

Girl Scout: Oh, hi. 

Mercedes: Who are you and how did you get in my apartment?

Girl Scout: Jorge said I could stay.

Mercedes: ORLY? My brother hasn't been seen since he picked me up at the airport. Now how did you get in here? (pauses) Wait, you didn't sneak out of your bedroom window again, did you?

Mercedes moves towards her house phone.

Mercedes: I'm calling your parents.

Francine leaps up from off the couch and grabs at her leg and looks at her.

Girl Scout: (in a whiny voice) No, please, you can't make me go back. Anything but that!

Mercedes: And why not?

Girl Scout: Because.

Mercedes: Because what?

Girl Scout: Because you promised to tell me what happened?

Mercedes: Look you, I'm tired. For the sake of my sanity, please go home. And through the front door, this time.

Girl Scout: But you promised.

Mercedes sighs, dropping her keys in a dish.

Mercedes: If I tell you what happened, will you go home?

Girl Scout: Yes.

Mercedes: Oh, alright.

~~~

It's Not Whether You Win or Lose: Gatekeeper

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

[REC•]

"Some things are better left unsaid, but you can bet I'm going to say it anyway. I can't help being who I am."

Mercedes smiles as the cameras are warming up. The SCW Hall of Famer is wearing her authorized SCW t-shirt as usual as she's at the Stanley Kubrick exhibit at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Mercedes leans against one of the towering lamps seen in front of the museum.

"Last week was great, ending Keira's winning streak and all, but you know something? I think I can do better than that. I'm going to send Seleana home for the holidays!"

Mercedes smiles despite herself.‭ ‬Her chance at challenging for the World Bombshell Championship at the supercard was depending on what happens Sunday. To realize her dream means she would have to end Seleana's, something she had no problem doing.‭[‬/i‭]

"Probably shouldn’t let your obvious jealousy of me get too out of control. I can’t even begin to imagine how it must feel for you to play the role of also-ran, while I face some worthy competition. Nonetheless, yours truly is back to her winning ways and someone is going to end up on my checklist against. I think I have a pretty good idea who that could be.”

Mercedes points at the camera.

"Yes, Seleana, I'm talking to you, sweetheart, and there's two things you can do about it: nothing and like it. Or don't, I don't care all that much either way.

She glances down for a long moment while shaking her head, her eyes closed. She looks up again at the camera and lets out a sigh.l.

“If The Cat wants to play...”

A small mischievious smile plays on her lips as she whispers.

“‬We'll play.‭”

Mercedes smiles contently, rubbing her hands slowly together as she does so before turning around and walks off as the scene fades.

***Fade***

 font=MS Trebuchet]Blog: Almighty Fire[/font]
semana del 4 al 11 de augusto de 2 0 1 9 

Anyone else thinks this is becoming a trend? I walk through the curtain, walk down the ramp on my way to the ring, climb the turnbuckle and do the usual deal, then wait for my opponent or the opening bell. I'm in a good mood, waiting to lock up. I'm in a groove, I'm hitting my opponent sometimes with moves they've never seen before. Things are looking up.

But you know how this story ends, don't you? Yeah, another win on my record. You can't lose for winning, or is it win for losing? I forget.

Anyway...

So I already beat one of my three challengers in the traditional Ultimate X Over the Pool match at Summer XXXtreme, I say why not beat another?

In the meantime, I've come to find out I'm facing Bobbie Dahl this week. Like I said last Climax Control, Samantha Marlowe faced impossible odds but through grit and determination she did what she had to do to beat Bobbi and secure her title match. Last Climax Control, Sammi was turned away, just like Jessie Salco was in my first defense. Is Bobbi worried that she missed out on that title opportunity against me? Maybe, maybe not. Still doesn't change the fact that like Sammi and Kate, Bobbi gets a golden opportunity at ending my reign at Summer XXXtreme. But that's in two weeks. While you really can't prepare for a Roulette Rules match, this week we'll find out if Bobbi Dahl is prepared for me. She seems just as confident if her aspirations of winning my title at the pay-per-view goes but the preview written for our match had it right: "If Bobbie can knock off the champion this week, title or no, she walks into the Supercard with one serious amount of momentum on her side."

Well, they're not entirely wrong. They didn't have to say it, but there it is. If Bobbie want to have that momentum, and getting redemption against me, too, all she has to do is beat me. Simple, right?

Not so simple. Not since I've been on a roll the last few months and have continued to make the SCW record books my autobiography this year. Just by beating Sam last week, I became the all-time winningest wrestler in singles matches and the winningest female in the Bombshells division. In February, I broke Roxi Johnson's record for most career wins on Climax Control. I'm on pace to become the fastest wrestler to reach 100 career matches on Climax Control and 140 career matches next month and reach 40 career pay-per-view matches by October.

I know deep down that you really wanted to beat me that first time two years ago. Luckily for you, you get another chance. And the way I see it, Bobbie, you're getting off easy, especially after a hard-fought match with Samantha. For the first time, Bobbie, you get to do what you couldn't do in your final match in your first run here. I know you're up for the challenge, and I hope you are otherwise I think lightning will strike twice as I end your career again and you can kiss Summer XXXtreme goodbye this year. But maybe I've met my match this time. I mean, the notion that someone like me, someone as talented as me, someone as decorated as me, has to waste time with someone like, well, you. It just doesn't add up.

It doesn't take much for people to look up at you and see someone who is intimidating, if not more. I'm pretty sure this five foot seven Latina from Buenos Aires, Argentina won't be winning any powerlifting contests anytime soon and my name doesn't strike fear in the hearts of opponents, that much is certain. I’m going to continue to prove my worth as the standard not just in the women's division but in the entire company, and nothing is going to stop me. I don’t care what woman is standing in front of me. One opponent, two opponents, three opponents. Give me the whole roster.

When future wrestlers who are coming in or someone wants to become a wrestler or a die-hard, passionate fanvwants to watch something good, I doubt they’re gonna pull up a Jessie Salco match or a Trinity Jones match. They’re gonna pull up one of my matches, or Alicia Lukas' matches, or Sierra Williams matches, or the girls of London Underground or Cat Riley - and I could go on. But Jessie or Trinity is not in that category, or list. Same with Kate Steele.

I'm not Amanda Cortez, Jessie Salco, or Trinity Jones, opponents anybody could beat while blindfolded and one hand tied behind their back. I'm certainly not Sierra Williams who had an offnight against you, Bobbie. There will be no miracles happening Sunday,. I'm going to make sure of it. You're facing someone who has become a nightmare to any woman on the current roster. Really, I'm not too picky: Pinfall, countout, tapout, or knockout. The match won't end until that second bell and by that time, it's already too late.

And if you do happen to beat me Sunday, guess what? Momentum or no, I still walk out Bombshell Roulette Champion. I am a legend and win or lose, I will still be a legend. When we step into the ring, Bobbie, I hope you're as good as your threats and you better bring everything you got Sunday. I want it all. Every ounce of skill, determination and will you have, sweetheart, because I want to see the look on your face when you give it  your all and realize not that you weren't good, but you weren't good enough.

I'm sure Jessie and Sam will make room for you there.

So, yeah. I’ll see you at Climax Control, Bobbie, and I’ll show you why exactly you’re out of your league. And after I beat you and eliminate you from Ultimate X Over the Pool at Summer XXXtreme - you can watch as I go on and win the entire thing and retain my title.

Long before you knew and long after you remember.

 Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 7 al 14 de julio de 2 0 1 9

How did this happen? 

How did I do it?

It's amazing how far I've come at this point. Sometimes, I still think I'm in a dream. There's many girls on the roster who should be here in this position. Of all the people who could have been in my position at this point, of all the wrestlers that I went through to make my name in this company...they could never bear the awesome burden of being me. I've climbed the mountain so many times there isn’t much left for me to conquer.

At Into the Void VIII, the chance to make history once again, the chance to cement my name in the record books as the first-ever four-time Bombshell Roulette Champion, being under the bright lights and on the grandest stage, being recognized as the greatest Bombshell to ever wrestle in Sin City Wrestling. Taking back the Bombshell Roulette Championship just proves what I've been saying all along why I am that...damn...good.

The woman who was said to be irrelevant, past her prime, a has-been and was told it was time to hang up her boots, is now standing here an overall twelve-time champion. 

It’s makes me wonder.

How far I’ve come.

Being here, in this moment once again champion for a seventh straight year is pretty humbling when I think about it. When it came down to who would leave Phoenix the Bombshell Roulette Champion, I was the one who prevailed, I was the one who took the opportunity that was given when I beat Amanda and Daniella V. Rodgers and and I was able to make the most of it.

I warned Samantha that I wasn’t going to back down, I told her that I was going to bring her world crashing around her and I did. 

Now I'm back on top again.

The legacy of Mercedes Vargas lives on, my story continues as a new chapter has been written and now I'm moving forward to write the next one as the first four-time Bombshell Roulette Champion and it just feels good to know that I will forever be known as a part of that in the history books.

Nothing will ever take that away from me.

The best part of being a one-woman dynasty and having so much success... is the fact that you don’t have to prove anything. I could go out there and lose this belt in less than a minute to Apple Coren or Twisted Sister, but when the history books are closed... my name will still be all over them, more than any other woman in this company, past, present or future.

The records, the titles, the accolades and accomplishments, the things that made me great... I’ll always have those, win or lose those memories will always be there, and nobody can touch them. Nobody can knock me off this pedestal that I’m on, nobody can destroy the legacy that I built.

Not even Jessie Salco.

Does that bother you, Jessie? Not the fact that I have done so much in such a short time despite you being younger than me and having a ten-month start or that you'll never accomplish a fraction of what I've done. I'm talking about the one thing you're better at then me, better at than anyone.

Losing..

You're simply the best
Better than all the rest
Better than anyone
Anyone I ever met.
 
Let's look at it this way, by the time I add one or two more titles and eventually retire, you'll still be chasing that white whale because the Bombshell Championship is way out of your reach or just any championship. At no time was that fact proven during your pursuit two years ago when Evie Jordan was Bombshell Champion. Bad enough when I was champ. I literally just won the title and you were all but desperate to beat me or in this case get beat by me again. Remember when you sent out your idiot husband and your doofus brother-in-law to conduct a survey with the locals in Auckland, New Zealand or the ask-the-audience bit you did the following week in Sydney? How dumb was that especially when in the end you couldn't even win the four-way contendership? Same thing this time around, just won the Bombshell Roulette Championship.

Only this time around you didn't even have to earn a title shot. Marky-Mark - the same one who slapped an indefinite title ban on you that was only just lifted by Christian Underwood - gave you his blessing.

Maybe he has a soft spot for charity cases, I don't know.

That’s who you are, Jessie. It’s who you’re always going to be. You can go on and exaggerate as much you want. It doesn’t matter. At the end of the day, regardless of what you do, what you accomplish, you’re always just going to be a perennial loser. There’s a reason why I am a perennial winner and the winningest female in company history. There's a reason that people have been clamoring for months to face me in SCW. There’s a reason it’s my name on people's lips, and nobody even thinks about you or gives you the time of day.

You had a couple of wins here and there, a title win now and again. But often there were fluke wins than anything else. Every opportunity you've had, you've squandered. Sunday will be no different.

No matter how many times I’ve beaten you, here you are saying otherwise. I can't wait for Sunday, I can't wait for this to end, and it will be the end of everything. For me, it will mean that I finally get you out of my hair forever.

For you, it's going to mean for all those dreams of being seen anything than a doormat in the division will continue.

You're already a footnote in the history of SCW, Little Miss 100 Losses. You're about to be inducted on my checklist again. And maybe someday, one day, you're going to be the answer to a Jeopardy question.

Life is good, huh?

~~~

GOOD THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT, or so the saying goes.

Nine months is a long time, but the title drought of Mercedes Vargas is no more and now she is now part of the Winner's Circle by knocking off someone who was on it for many months. Mercedes could have taken shortcuts, she could have demanded facing champions, or even attack champions, but she wasn't the impulsive type. What kind of example would she set to the roster if she was another Crystal Zdunich? The worse one.

Backstage at Into the Void VIII, Mercedes Vargas takes the slow walk through the cold, dimly lit and winding halls of Grand Canyon University Arena for what will be the last time tonight. She does a mental checklist coming out of the cramp communal space that was the women's dressing room armed with her luggage and eating a bag of M&Ms.

So it may have come to the surprise of many that Mercedes once again reigns as Bombshell Roulette Champion when she already won this championship a record three times. With history about to be made, the SCW Hall of Famer would be a fool to let this opportunity pass her by and she wasn't going to let it slip through her fingers.

There was just something about Arizona that was mystical when it came to the Bombshell Roulette Championship. Jessie Salco beat Chelsea Payne for the title in Prescott Valley in June 2017. It was last year in Tucson where Samantha Marlowe beat Evie Jordan for the title at High Stakes. Mercedes always got a kick out of being here too. It was almost five years ago in this state where her third Bombshell Roulette reign began in Yuma, when the Mean Girls reached their peak. Mercedes outlasted then-champion Necra Octavian Kane and fellow challengers Natalie McKinley and Joanne Canelli.

She got to leave Arizona still undefeated in title matchea, got to leave with another victory and got to leave with another I-told-you-so moment, at Samantha's expense.

The standard wrestling ring is 20x20, the ropes basic cordage wrapped in tape. The floor simple canvas layers topping a metal frame. There is very little give or bounce. Now imagine doing a shooting star press from off the ladder and your skin impaled by hundreds of thumbtacks down below. Not a pretty sight and certainly not for the faint-hearted, the chances were high that this match would get a disclaimer label ahead of time once it was released for the replay on the SCW website and the social media sites. There was probably a shortlist as it is as SCW award season was a few short months away. With a rabid fanbase such as SCW, it wouldn't be a surprise to see this match on a list of match of the year contenders. Mercedes doubted it, but such as in wrestling, anything can happen.

Landing on thumbtacks is probably the last thing Mercedes imagined Samantha wanted to do go through on a Sunday night, much less a trip to a local area hospital. The blood was real. The unimaginable pain just as much. Losing the title after a historic run was worse than both of these things and probably wasn't in her plans either.

Mercedes has doggedly pursued history, stringing wins one after the other, as she was chasing yet another milestone that would soon be hers alone in company history. The night she captured her first championship was overwhelming as anyone winning their first championship will tell you. Of course, now she's gotten quite used to it. The night Mercedes captured her first championship in SCW pales in comparison the night she captured her twelfth.

Tomorrow morning throughout the off week following Into the Void, Mercedes was sure not many in the locker room would care about her accomplishment, even less would be willing to share her excitement over the victory. There was sure to be even fewer sharing their opinion on their Twitter accounts.

She didn't care either way because all that mattered was what she was carrying in her luggage, and that championship gold once again.

Good things comes to those who wait. Better things come to those who don't. But the best things come to those who worked for it.

For Mercedes Vargas, it wasn't easy, but it was worth.

And well worth the wait.

~~~

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

"Next time Mother Nature wants to be cruel, could we at least have an advanced warning?"

The scene fades on Mercedes Vargas standing in what is, or rather was, the usual hangout spot for her and her castmates who look on forlorn.

Irma: I'll always remember McGuilicutty's specials. They never skimmed on the soup of the day. Never.

Ricardo: We had a lot of brainstorming sessions here. I still have my first playscript with the bistro stain right in the center.

Mercedes: Remember when I had awful cold that never went away? I thought I saw my life flash before me.[/i]

Irma: I think it was catagious. We all caught it within a week.

Ricardo: Memories light the corners of my mind.

Mercedes takes off her fendora hat and looks down in solemn reflection. Ricardo and Irma does the same.

Mercedes: To McGuilicutty's...

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

It's Not Whether You Win or Lose
Present Day • L O S A N G E L E S, C AL I F O R N I A

[REC•]

The scene fades in on Mercedes Vargas sitting leisurely in an arm chair, polishing her championship in her Los Angeles residence. It’s been almost two weeks since the Into the Void pay-per-view and her successful title match win. By the bemused smile on her face, we're not sure if it's due to recent events or because it's the start of a brand new reign, but it's something at least. As if on cue, Mercedes stops momentarily as she looks up at the camera while absently places her championship on the coffee table. She has her hands on the folded straps, a firm grip on the championship belt.

"Mercy's back, back again. Mercy's back, tell a friend.

"I told you this day would come. I told you that I would make history. I told you that I would become the SCW Bombshell Roulette Champion. No, wait, the fo-fo-fo-four time SCW Bombshell Roulette Champion. And I told Samantha Marlowe that I was the only thing standing between another successful defense and her reign coming to an end."

She continues to nod and looks straight into the lens, but she wore a hint of a smile. She ran her hand through her hair, then looked out for a long moment, pensive, before returning her attention to the camera.

"And now that I have this piece of gold on my shoulder, it seems like everybody wants a title shot now. Kate Steele wants a title shot only because Alicia Lukas stomped out her world title dreams in her hometown back at Blaze of Glory. Kate Steele had all the pomp and circumstance, getting her garage cover band together, hyping up those London fans into thinking "it's coming home." at London Brawling II. At least Kateykins and England have one thing in common, underperforming at the world's stage.

"Bobbie Dahl wants a title shot because she been on a roll lately. I'd consider it. This time around she's been on fire since her first stint two years ago. Think if she squashes Trinity Jones this weekend, she should be line for a title shot. And I wouldn't be surprised if Samantha Marlowe wants back the title I beat her for just two weeks ago.

"This weekend, though, I'm facing someone you should all know, someone I should know. The one and only Jessie Salco. Yes, the same Jessie who was pinned by Kate in the triple threat with Seleana yet is still getting a title shot against me. I don't know if it's a coincidence or convience, but if Mark Ward wants me to embarrass Jessie like I have in the past, I have absolutely no problem doing that on the first Climax Control after Into the Void this weekend."

She nods her head slowly, then rubs her hands expectantly. No, this wasn't the main event. To Jessie Salco, it might as well be considering that she's back to getting regular title matches again. It had to count for something. You take the small victories whenever you can. Well, in that case, Mercedes would act accordingly.

"Before I get to talk about my match, let me address the big elephant in the room, and that's Crystal Zdunich. Crystal has been blowing up my mentions on Twitter, she's been dropping my name on Climax Control and pay-per-view. She's so desperate to get a match with me that she went out of her way to go to Argentina - that's got to be a 12-15 hour flight from LA - to deface a limited edition poster with my face on it. And here I thought she wanted people to pay attention to her. She wants to be the bride at every wedding, the corpse at every funeral, and the baby at every christening.

"Well, Crystal, if you want my answer to your challenge..."

Pausing for a moment, Mercedes has a thoughtful expression on her face before she addresses the camera again.

"...you're going to have to wait to hear what I have to say with the rest of the world."

Mercedes shakes her head with disgust.

"Now, Jessie, don’t think I’m going to go on ad nauseam on why I’m better than you, I think we both know your place. I’ll say this much, while we've faced each other in SCW for what seems like forever, I’m not at all surprised that you're already thinking you've got this match won. Maybe it's because you think you've beat me for the Internet Championship three years ago at Blaze of Glory, or that you and Amy ended my first World Bombshell Tag Title reign. To that I say, good for you. Even a broken clock is right twice a day. Personally, this match wouldn't even need to happen. you just be given the belt and take the earliest flight right out of Primm, Nevada. If it were a perfect world.

"Sorry, flat-earthers."

Laughing to herself softly, Mercedes shook her head.

"When I say that there's no nights off in the women's division, I mean it. But it takes serious effort to lose 100 career matches. That takes serious effort though Jessie makes it look so easy. Jessie is always going on about how Mark and Christian are the worst owners ever because they're not giving her the one million title shots she thinks she's owed. She went as far as saying that she had a better career in Honor. Yet she's a seven-time champion in SCW.

"Always blaming somebody else because you weren’t good enough, always pointing the finger at somebody person claiming it was all their fault when you just weren’t good enough to make it happen.

"You're a one-time Bombshell Internet Champion, three-time World Bombshell Tag Team Champion and a three-time Bombshell Roulette Champion. The reason you got to hold the Honor Legacy Championship for so long in Honor then in SCW because I was going through the roster like Hurricane Katrina in Honor and Alicia Lukas was busy holding the top women's world title.

Do you seriously think that's going to change in SCW?"

Mercedes mouths the word “no” while shaking her head firmly. Her eyes piercing through the camera lens.

"I’m sorry to have to be the one to bring this up on the day before your seventh anniversary in SCW. I’m sorry to have to be the one who kicks you back down that pit when you feel like you’re so close to climbing out. It won't happen Sunday, and not at my expense, that I promise you."

Mercedes brush her hands over the championship’s center plate. Tilting her head forward, she looks directly into the lens.

"You wanted to face the best, well it doesn’t get any better than yours truly. Sunday, Jessie, just like what I did to Apple, Ella, Amanda and Daniela, Trinity, and Samantha, you're going to be an example, a message, a reminder, and perhaps a little preview,  to the women of SCW. And that message?"

There’s a cocky half-grin on her face as she now speaks in Spanish.

"Cuando te metes con el major, hundirás con los demás."
When you mess with the best, you go down with the rest.

Throwing a wink at the camera, Mercedes turns and walks off in the direct of the museum as the scene fades.

***Fade***

 Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 12 al 18 de mayo de 2 0 1 9

Mercedes Vargas: Bombshell Roulette Championship number one contender. You know, it does has a nice ring to it. I mean, I don't want to toot my own horn or anything...OK, yes I do. Toot, toot I beat Little Miss Tattooed Biker Chick and Little Miss Throwback to become next in line for Samantha Marlowe, which can only mean I'm going to beat her too. It's meant to be and it will be.

Did I mention the history I made at London Brawling II? I didn't? Well it bears repeating: I...made...history. Winningest female wrestler on pay-per-view, longest pay-per-view streak of all time, among other things. I was so excited about my win at London Brawling II, you know what did the the entire werk? I sat my derriere in my cherriere, ate some cavier and then set up my DVR and I watched how I setup D-V-R over my shoulders and dropped her on her head with the Black Rose Overdrive.

I wonder if Amanda is having second thoughts about coming back to SCW full time? Or if Daniela is still capable of grasping the English language. Maybe she's looking for an apology. She's not going to find one because I'm not the least bit sorry.

When you're at the top everyone is after you. I'm not looking back at people like Trinity, she's not competition. I know I'm better than her and that's why while she's dreaming about winning titles, I'm achieving winning titles. People like Daniela says that the reason I've been successful is because of hype as an insult that, quite frankly, doesn't even make sense. It's a fact, it's true. Mercedes Vargas is successful in Sin City Wrestling and any promotion I step into because I'm all hype. Because I back up what I say, not all the time but most of the time. Because talent like me don't get put in matches with Twisted Sister. Because I don't ask to be put in matches with this person or that person, they demand that they face me. Because I believe in myself and put in the work necessary that other people won't. I achieve things that they can't ever hope to match or surpass. So, yes, hype is the reason why I've been successful. So, no, I'm not.

Ella Singleton says that I'm one of the luckiest people on the roster. I mean, that has to be better than being the daughter of a hall of fame wrestler by her admission, right? My family tree wasn't so lucky. The genes, the pedigree, the priceless mentoring from a veteran who has excelled in the business...I didn't get any of that. I had no help, little money, and just a dream. A dream deeply rooted in the American dream. If anything people who have a wrestling lineage are practically raised in the business so they already have a foot in the door; I had the door slammed in my face.

When a second or third generation wrestler quickly ascends to the higher echelons of this sport, I had to work twice as hard. Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard.

It’s always tough to live up to a wrestling lineage. The credibility with the fans who expect you to be a champion and a main eventer soon after your debut. Lucky for me I don't have that problem.

Successful people are not lucky, they don't believe their own hype; they just work harder than the average person.

When a basketball player heads down the court and sets up for the winning shot on the final play of the game and the ball goes in, does it get listed in the luck stats? Of course not. The player gets the scoring stat and the basketball team wins the game. Why? Because it is not luck when you perform what is required. They did their job.

On Sunday, it's about time I do mine.

How appropriate that the next Climax Control is in Vegas? If I was a betting person, chances are Trinity will be back to blaming someone other than herself why she failed to take the Bombshell Roulette Championship off of Sam Marlowe.

Ahead of Blaze of Glory, it was because Sam had been ducking her and after the outcome it was because Sam won by luck to beat her and that anybody could be beat in a backstage brawl. The funny thing about that is no one interfered so luck has nothing to do with it. Then at London Brawling II,
what happened? Trinity ended up on her back again, in a no disqualification match. Was that due to luck? Was Sierra just lucky to beat you? I don't think so. What you don't realize is luck, just like fear, isn't real. It's a figment of your imagination.

I didn't come to SCW to make friends, I came here to win titles and make history. It's not my job to hold anyone's hand and I refuse to think anything less of myself. Even past my prime I'm capable of beating any girl on any show in any match at any given time. I'm doing more, saying less. Working hard, playing less. I set the bar that few will ever reach, if they even get that far.

Face it, Trinity. You want a win over me because you need it, and in the worse way. You burned bright to start out the year but now you're fading down the stretch and another loss just might break you. I don’t need to beat you to prove I’m better than you. Go ahead with your idle threats though because your words are as empty as your threats.

And your excuses aren't much better.

Two days, forty-eight hours. That's all there is until you step in the ring with me at Climax Control, little girl. I don't know what I did to deserve this. Then again, maybe this is a blessing in disguise. If being humiliated by Sam Marlowe was the nail in the coffin that is your career, then I'm going to be the hammer to drive it home.

So do your worst and bring your best. Come Sunday, don’t come looking for me, I’ll be waiting for you.

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

~~~

Smile Because it Happened The Sixteenth: Look What You've Made Me Do The Fifteenth: Outliers, Part XI: Want Versus Need
Present Day •
Micheltorena Stairs
L O S A N G E L E S, C A L I F O R N I A

[REC•]

"Some things are better left unsaid, but you can bet I'm going to say it anyway. I can't help being who I am."

Mercedes Vargas looks up from her folded hands to the camera. The camera peels back just a bit to show us that the SCW Hall of Famer is sat on a flight of stairs that made up the Micheltorena Stairs. The iconic landmark made famous by its bold red hearts and colorful steps, all 177 of them, in fact.

"So, I'm finally back in the U.S. of A. and not a moment too soon. It's been two weeks since the Ireland and UK Tour ended and while I'm thankful for a little R&R, I'm sure most of us who was featured on the tour are still trying to get back to normal. The jetlag is real.

"I got to visit many different places and even revisit old ones. Not a bad way to spend seven weeks. I was always told it’s a bad idea to mix business with pleasure. At London Brawling, I did both, taking care of business and adding Amanda Cortez and Daniela V Rodgers to my checklist."

As she said this, Mercedes takes out her cellphone and brings up a still image of her in the ring. She's bent over at the point of collapsing, drenched in sweat and at the point of exhaustion. Hey, they can't always be award-winning moments.

"If pictures are worth a thousand words, I don't need that many. I don't need 140 characters. I only need four."

Mercedes now holds up four fingers.

"I told you so."

Yes, if her flashiness didn't clue you in on her remarkable victory at the supercard, then her arrogance will. After her victory in London, she wasn't surprised every one on the roster wants a piece of her.

"If I've learned one important lesson from multi-person matches, it's to always expect the unexpected. And even when you expect it, you still didn't expect it! Sunday at London Brawling was an exception because yours truly proved that I AM the triple threat.

"But enough about that. Let's get this back to where it needs to be, and that's what's next for yours truly. Well, come this Sunday at Climax Control 236, the fallout show from the supercard, you are going to see live the #ChampionofChampions against someone you know very well, someone I know very well. I'm talking about "The Dragon" Trinity Jones."

Mercedes can't help to bring her hand to her face, a classic facepalm. This lasts a moment before she looks up at the camera.

"I hate to rain on your parade Trinity, but as far as our match Sunday I just have one question: You ever had one of those days when you just don't feel to come to work? Forgive me if I'm not doing such a good job of keeping a straight face, but this isn't a matchup. It's a mismatch. You call yourself "The Dragon", but you don't scare anybody. I have solidified myself as the greatest SCW wrestler this company has ever seen without question. I am a legend, an icon and a hall of famer. I’ve reached milestones, shattered records, and dominated opponents since I joined the roster. Who did you ever beat this year? Oh, right, Mercedes Lewis, Pandora Barrett and Iron Maiden. I guess it helps to know that Mercedes and Pandora didn't even last three months before they left the company and Iron Maiden is nothing more but target practice for even the someone who came fresh out of wrestling school. Not in your case, but in general, but who am I?"

Mercedes holds up her hands in reservation.

“It's not that you’re any good, it's not that I'm not looking past you. Even if I gave you the benefit of the doubt, more than likely all you'll do is prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that I was right. I like to think I always am."

Mercedes felt that she would be the one that kept Trinity's ego in check. In fact, she felt it was her civic duty. Sunday would be another needed reminder of why there was no comparison.

"At London Brawling, I risked it all to win it all and I'm not heading to Vegas just to lose, Trinity. You've had your chances at winning your first championship, had your chances to finally prove Sam Marlowe wrong, and you've ran out of coins. It's the back of the line for you, and I'll be more than happy to send you there because if there is anything I hate most it's people taking advantage of the hard work of others."

Looking deadset into the camera lens, her voice drops to a whisper though her words hold conviction behind them. She pauses, mostly for dramatic effect.

"Two years ago when we wrestled for the very first time, I beat you. I put you down for the 1-2-3. Two years ago is a very long time. The only thing that stands between you and failure this time is reality. Like I said on Twitter, if you seriously think you're beating me this weekend and suddenly get put in the title match I earned you got another thing coming. If you think I’m going to slip up just mere weeks after I sign the last rites to Sam Marlowe's title reign, you’re dead wrong. I’m doing this company a favor and I intend to carry it through by being not what this company wants as a champion, but what it needs."

Mercedes pauses as she sweeps back her hair from her face.

"Into the Void is in forty-three days. I'm sure Christian will find something for you to do, even if it's serving those hungry fans at catering. It worked for Sam, maybe it'll work for you too."

Mercedes shakes her head out of pity, then raises her index finger.

"Trinity, I'll see you at Climax Control and as for knocking my head off, sweetheart, I'd like to see you try.
If at first you don't succeed, destroy all evidence that you tried..."

***Fade***

 Blog: Almighty Fire: Redefined the Twelfth
semana del 24 al 31 de marzo de 2019

Blaze of Glory.

It is my blessing, it is my curse.

It is...another pay-per-view I can now cross off my checklist.

Let's be real here, Ella Singleton had absolutely no business stepping to me, calling me out, throwing down the gauntlet, but I was all too willing to give her what she wanted. Ask and you shall receive, right?

She just received another loss on her record. She received another loss she'll have to live with for the rest of her miserable life. She received the Black Rose Overdrive that had her name on it. I've beaten some forty some-odd girls in my time in SCW, but adding Ella Singleton's name to my checklist was satisfying. She fought hard, she escaped the Black Overdrive once,but there wouldn't be a twice and I made damn sure of that.

I'm not taking away from Ella, but there is a thing as pushing above your weight. She knew exactly what she was getting into and the result speaks for itself. If I was one of those fans who bought a ticket or was seriously expecting an upset, sorry to burst that bubble. Ella should be embarrassed to show her face and I'd be surprised if she actually shows up this weekend. Whether she shows up or slinks away back to being irrelevant, chances are she's never going to live this down. So now, I won't ever have to hear her mealy mouth again and I couldn't care what excuse she'll probably read off some index card. She's better off going into hiding because I made the Duchess of Florida the clown jester.

I said that I would make history at Blaze of Glory and I did. I said nothing and no one would stop me from ending the curse once and for all and I got my breakthrough. I said that Ella Singleton would be on my checklist and that's exactly what happened and now it's time to move on to bigger and better things.

That being my next opponent. Seleana Zdunich, a woman who has seemingly caught lightning in a bottle and is riding a wave of momentum lately to the point where she might be the second coming of Dani Weston.
 
Seleana has been impressive, she's proven that she belongs in SCW. And not only has she proven that but she has survived and thrived which is more than I can say for most women who are only good enough to scribble their name to a contract and not much else

Nearly a year and she's had over twenty matches, good for her. I'm not stupid though. Sunday is where I'm facing someone who just lost her title without even being pinned. You don't think she's going to what to redeem herself by beating me? It's not so much that I beat her in our first match than it is that she probably haven't forgotten how I made her very upset on Twitter.

If she was expecting an apology and maybe a Hallmark card to go with a nice fruit basket, I think she's facing the wrong opponent because I don't apologise to anyone and I'm not about to start to now.

I'm already having the moment of 2019 but I'm not done yet, and after Climax Control me making history won't be either.

~~~

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

A quiet evening overlooking the Los Angeles skyline from her hotel room. Mercedes sits cross-legged Indian style. A Spotify mix plays lightly in the background, covering mostly Billie Holiday. A finished meal of room service Thai sits on a table next to a small stand mounted to hold her iPad. A cool breeze comes from an opened window.

Halfway through "God Bless the Child", her iPad chimes, but she doesn't open her eyes. After commanding Siri to open Facetime, Ricardo appears on the screen. He's sat in his house making some kind of concoction as there's a dozen different bottles, some decent ice, and glassware.

Ricardo: Billie Holiday, huh? Oriental too good for you now?

Mercedes: Was that a challenge? Nobody complains when you're rocking out to Metallica. Besides, you know I'm a sucker for the classics.

Ricardo: If you say so.

His shrug was non-committal. He changes the subject.

Ricardo: So how did it go?

Mercedes: There was a lot of things I liked about Anaheim, winning my match pretty much tops the list. Well, that and going to Disneyland. All in all, a pretty good week, if I do say so myself.

Ricardo answers dryly.

Ricardo: I think you just did.

Mercedes: Last I checked, my chances went from slim to 'haha, are you kidding me?' At least, that's what the sportsbooks were saying. Let me live.

Ricardo: I got Vodka at my place. The best Vodka. Expensive Vodka.

Mercedes gives him a mortified look.

Mercedes: Of all the things you could have said you mention alcohol? Seriously? How can you be thinking about alcohol at a time like this? Besides, aren't you a teetotaler?

Ricardo points at himself.

Ricardo: My reputation is on the line here. So what's a few shots? Joking, joking. There's a mixer coming up and I'm trying to come up with the perfect drink.

He waves his hand over the bottles.

Ricardo: As you can see, no dice. If you any suggestions, now would be the time to tell me. I've two days to come up with something.

Mercedes: Like I would know? I seemingly understand your plight, but shame on you. What will your wife think?

Ricardo: I guess people like Cassie?

Mercedes: That was a rhetorical question.

~~~

Smile Because it Happened The Fifteenth: Look What You've Made Me Do The Fourteenth: Outliers, Part X
Present Day • B E L F A S T • N O R TH E R N I R E L A N D

[REC•]

"Some things are better left unsaid, but you can bet I'm going to say it anyway. I can't help being who I am."

Walking around and seeing the street art that covers the walls is one of the unique visits Mercedes wanted to cross off her bucket list. Down near St Anne's Cathedral at Exchange Street, Mercedes admires one of the more elegant pieces located in the parking lot, namely the The Dream mural. The painting was equal parts haunting and captivating, the geisha emerging from the darkness with one solitary spotlight evoked a sense of stillness, beauty, calm and dreaming. Mercedes turns from the mural to the camera.

"Welcome to Northern Ireland. Have to say, I never thought I'd get a chance to visit here again. This is my second visit in Belfast and first in six years, go figure. But getting here was half the fun. The other half happens on Sunday."

Bringing her two hands together, Mercedes taps her fingertips against one another as a small mischievous smile plays on her lips..

"It's not very often that yours truly get to witness history than to make history but that's exactly what happened at Blaze of Glory. Alicia walked out of Anaheim, California a two-time world champion, Dani was left heartbroken, Crystal's master plan blew up in her face and Seleana is a two-week wonder.

"At least Dani has a Plan B, she's in the Blast From the Past. So is Alicia, if only to stroke her own ego and add another accomplishment on her mantle. Crystal? At this point, there's no redemption for what she did and if that means no longer having to see her in the title picture, so be it.

"So where does that leave Seleana? Oh, that's right, she has a rematch in her back pocket anytime she wants to use it so it's not so bad. Still, I have to give credit where it's due, Seleana, and offer my congrats for your first-ever pay-per-view main event. You were the golden girl for a hot minute but like all things in life, did you seriously think there wasn't a little nugget of truth, that there wouldn't be a moral to this story?"

Mercedes shakes her head while wagging her finger.

"Cheaters never win, sweetheart. They just come in second."

Mercedes puts a finger up and amends her statement.

"Or, in your case, they just walk out empty-handed. Kinda sucks, doesn't it?"

Mercedes had made a name for herself. She had proven she was an easy win for nobody and she has accomplished a lot in so little time. And with success comes resentment by peers, something that's precedent in any profession, not only wrestling. Maybe people were writing Mercedes off this round, maybe Christian made the match in hopes of raising Seleana's self esteem, she didn't know let alone care. She wasn't going to let people's opinion of her get in the way of her saying what needs to be said.

"I'm not really blaming Seleana for coming up short, I'm not blaming Crystal for failing to take advantage of the situation and yeah, sure, maybe Alicia was the better woman that night but let's not forget who was really responsible. Karma.

"I believe in karma, I really do. What you give is what you get returned. It sometimes takes a while for people to get what's coming, but karma will catch up to them in one way or another and when it does it will totally be worth it. Everything happens for a reason."

"I like think this match is happening for a reason, Seleana. You know, in the weeks leading up to Into the Void last year, I couldn't help but remember the words you said about our match and, to a lesser extent, me. To the point, Seleana, you said that you felt insulted that you had to share the ring with me, that you felt the only reason why Christian put you on the card was because you claimed that I saw you as just a waste of my time.

"Ahora me toca a mí."
"Now it's my turn."

Mercedes lifts her sunglasses up from her eyes and carefully places them on top of her head. She shook her head in disgust and scoffed.

"Now it's my turn to be insulted, because what you and Crystal did at the go-home show was nothing more than insulting. Whether your wife did it on her own accord or, like that actress who played Aunt Becky in Full House got in trouble for, maybe she did it just so she has something to brag about because she knew she didn't have a prayer of taking the belt off Alicia herself really makes no difference. There's an asterisk next to your name, Seleana. Does that make you feel good?"

She shakes her head, mocking disappointment at what went down at Climax Control 230. Even after Blaze of Glory was already in the books, Mercedes was sure that no one was simply going to forget about the shocking outcome that night in Long Beach, California. She was almost sure no one would also forget how Seleana's rise to stardom seemingly led to her revival as of late..

"And to think, it all started with the punch heard 'round the world. You know how lucky you are to still be employed? If someone like Mark Ward didn't come to your rescue, 2018 would have been the last time we would have heard from you. Christian tried his best to find somebody, anybody, to put you in your place, they couldn't do it. Of course, had he called me, rest assured I would have ended your career the first chance I got."

A weary shake of her head was her only response to what she just couldn't wrap her head around. She knew Seleana had talent and was capable of winning a title. It's not the if or the when but the how that got to her.

"Who did you ever beat anyway? Trinity, Twisted Sister and Iron Maiden in a handicap, Jessie, Delia, Crystal in tag? Hold on while I pretend to be impressed. No wait, don’t. Because I don’t want to waste my fucking time. Outside of Delia, I wouldn't even be proud to mention those names. And we all know that had it not been for your wife, you beating Alicia would purely be a fantasy and Seleana Zdunich and World Bombshell Champion wouldn't even be spoken in the same breath.

"See, it's one thing to be hot for four months, I've been hot for six years. That is why I am the gold standard in the women's division and the entire company."

"They say you often meet your fate on the road you take to avoid it. There was no way to avoid your fate at Climax Control except to meet it head on. This match is nine months in the making, but what happened in Vegas will be the same thing that happens in Belfast this Sunday and that's me putting you down and standing over you with my arm raised and I can give two shits whether you're insulted by my presence. You have no choice in the matter and your size won't help because despite that in your wheelhouse, I still shut you down and ruined your pay-per-view debut. I have cemented my name among the all-time greats and have beaten the best that SCW has to offer. If it means putting you back in your place then so be it...I'll bury you along the way.

"See, I was going to focus on you. Since that seems to be your complaint lately. You don't want to be known as Crystal's wife. I was going to focus on you, Seleana. That is, until Crystal had to work her fingers and tweeted that she was going to be in your corner. You know what that tells me? Well, let me tell you what that is. It tells me that Crystal, your wife, don't believe you can get the job done. She doesn't believe you can beat me. She doesn't believe you're good enough to beat me. She doesn't think you're good enough to win a world title either, that's why she did what she did. What, does she think I'll need to cheat to beat you? I may be the wily veteran between us here, but I'm too good a wrestler to resort to cheating. And even if I did, someone like you isn't worth it.

"Honestly, I don't care if it's Crystal or Christina at ringside. Doesn't matter what twenty different personalities she wants to go by as she watches the match, I have a feeling that history will be made this Sunday.

"I do legitimately feel for you. What I’m going to have to do, it’s not going to be pretty, sweetheart. It’s not, and I get it, you want this to be the big comeback, where you get up from a very tough three weeks. It’s cute, it is.

"The blurb written about our match had it just about right. You were on cloud 9, finally living the dream. You holding up that title was the big middle finger sent to those of us who thought you were simply Crystal's wife. Except it was your wife who played an important role why you became champion in the first place. It was your wife, let's not forget, who stabbed you in the back in order to secure for herself that championship opportunity. It was only because of Mark Ward that kept your wife from getting Alicia all to herself for the title shot.

"But the clock struck midnight and now you're back to being the clueless idiot you always has been. The same blurb says that beating you would more than likely put me in the conversation for a title opportunity. Wouldn't that be something?"

Mercedes nonchalantly brushes her hair back.

"I believe in karma. It's a bigger bitch then I choose to be. And while you may be five feet eleven, it's been known to cut people down to size. But, Seleana, please, I welcome you to prove me wrong. So do your worst, bring your worst. Hell, bring your best too. Bring everything that you have. Come Sunday, Seleana, I'm crossing your name off my checklist because beating you twice will be just as nice."

There’s a cocky half-grin on her face as she now speaks in Spanish.

"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***