~Last Week~

Usually away from the ring, I like time to myself. One of the many things I do every so often is Church. Me and my family end up going bright and early on Sunday. Just hours before my scheduled appearance on Climax Control where I was scheduled to talk about where to go from here, we went to Church. This week, Charles decided to come with us. My wife Taylor and our kids Bryce, Braden, and Sophie were in our pews...but Charles was late. I was hoping I'd have a nice quiet service with the family..without him. Then suddenly my dreams were dashed when he made himself over to the pews, whispering to me as he saw the empty spot by me.

Charles Hawkins: Hey...this seat taken?

I just roll my eyes.

Griffin Hawkins: No, I'm waiting for the Pope.

He gets my sarcasm and takes his seat...now I'm wishing it was the pope here so he wouldn't have to sit with me.

Charles Hawkins: Sorry I'm late...kinda overslept...been a while since I gone to Church..

Griffin Hawkins: With the hell you put me through as a child..you need church..

Charles Hawkins: Are you still mad because I locked you in the porta john with an angry goat?..

Griffin Hawkins: ...I thought I told you never to bring that up again.

Charles Hawkins: ...sorry.

Griffin Hawkins: Let's just get through this service, alright?

Charles Hawkins: Right..

We then sit quietly as I hope that this service is going to go interrupted. But then he whispers.

Charles Hawkins: So who are you facing next week?..

Griffin Hawkins: ....the Good Sheperds..s

Charles Hawkins: Are you kidding me? Wow...you must have a lot of heavy confessing to do for this..

Griffin Hawkins: This isn't some kind of punishment...I'm being teamed with Mark Cross..the guy I'm facing for the title..

Charles Hawkins: Wow...God must hate you...

Griffin Hawkins: Actually it was the bosses idea..

Charles Hawkins: Alright..then the bosses hate you..

Griffin Hawkins: Look, they just want to build interest for our match..two guys who are gonna tear the house down teaming up for the first time ever.

Charles Hawkins: Against some weird god fearing cult? That should be interesting..

Griffin Hawkins: We'll be fine...okay?

Charles Hawkins: Fine, but do you know what you're getting into with these guys?..you both better watch it..

Griffin Hawkins: ..We will deal with this later, right now I want to enjoy our time here. No more interruptions, got it?

He nods and lets me sit and enjoy the sermon. Though he was right about one thing...I could trust Mark, but the guys I'm up against...this was no cakewalk. We had to work together if we want to survive this...would one of us even make it to December 2 Dismember?...


~Present Day~

I really am not a fan of funerals....events like that are really depressing. It's even worse when it's someone you love that's in that coffin. But for this occasion, I had to go in support of a friend. Alice Knight's great aunt Ruth had passed away and she needed a friend for moral support. I met up with her at the funeral home, prepared for the final burial. Alice had a black dress on as she met me at the door.

Griffin Hawkins: Hey...

Alice Knight: Heya..

We hug for a moment..I had a feeling she was torn up on the inside.

Griffin Hawkins: I'm really sorry about your Aunt...I'm sure she was close to you.

Alice Knight: Well..not really...

Griffin Hawkins: What do you mean?...

Alice Knight: I didn't know I had an Aunt Ruth..until now. I just found out she died and listed me as a next of kin...I figure I might as well go.

Griffin Hawkins: I see...and how did she die?

Alice Knight: Well..at the Senior Citizens center, she was leading a game of Simon Says...then she just dropped from a heart attack and fell to the floor. Everyone else decided to follow her cue and they fell to the floor..

I couldn't help but laugh...even though that's grim, that's the funniest damn thing I've ever heard.

Alice Knight: Griffin! It's not funny! When the paramedics got there, they thought that 15 people had died!

That only made me laugh even harder..but I had to maintain my composure..this is a funeral after all.

Griffin Hawkins: I'm sorry...I don't mean to be disrespectful...

Alice Knight: It's alright...although it does sound pretty funny...

Griffin Hawkins: Anyways...this isn't the first holy thing I gotta deal with. I gotta face The Good Shepherds with Mark Cross..

Alice Knight: Those crazy religious guys?...don't they hate rock music?

Griffin Hawkins: I'm...not sure. But I could use some guidance...

Alice Knight: Well..you could always ask Aunt Ruth...even though she's no longer with us, maybe her spirit will come to you.

I wasn't sure how that'd work...but here goes nothing. I go up to her as she is lying in her coffin. I take a deep breath.

Griffin Hawkins: Hi...Miss Ruth...you may not know me, but I am a friend of your niece Alice...my name is Griffin. See, I am facing a group of guys who always worship the lord..and I worry that I may go to hell for what I'm about to do to them....not to say you're probably going to hell yourself, I'm sure you'll be good wherever you go. But I take my faith very seriously, and I don't want to do something unforgivable..

I then feel something fall out of the pocket of my jacket...my cell phone. It falls right in the coffin..right in the top of her dress.

Griffin Hawkins: .....oh fuck me...

This was bad. I quickly rush over to Alice who's expecting me to be happy.

Alice Knight: Soooo..how'd it go?..

Griffin Hawkins: Well..my phone may have...slipped into her dress..

Alice Knight: ....Oh my G-!

I quickly put my hand over her mouth.

Griffin Hawkins: Shhhhhhhh! You wanna cause a scene?!

Alice Knight: ..Griffin, you can't go after it...just call an undertaker..

Griffin Hawkins: No..THAT will cause a scene. Just keep the others distracted as I get my phone back..

She covers for me me as I reach in the dress...oh God this is terrible...I'm technically grave robbing a corpse...I try and get a leg up, practically lying on it as I finally find the phone..but the table with the coffin can't support our weight as it snaps, falling with both of us to the floor..with me landing on top of her as the crowd is aghast. I look and see the shock on their faces.

Griffin Hawkins: Uh...oops?....

Some of them are shouting at me as Alice takes my hand and leads me out of the funeral home, we rush into my car and drive off.

Griffin Hawkins: ...I am so going to hell for this....

Alice Knight: At least my aunt will forgive you....hopefully..

That did not go as well as I hoped...I just hope the good lord doesn't decide to punish me for this..and what I may also do come Sunday...



------------------------------------------------------


Alice turns on her video camera as I sit on the top of the steps at my local Church with my trademark leather jacket worn as usual. I crack the knuckles on my fingerless gloved hands before speaking to the camera man.


"In life...we always believe that there is a higher power watching over us...guiding us. Some of us pray to the Lord, asking for guidance. Wondering what do we do next? Sometimes we get an answer...sometimes we don't. But we get up every day...with hope in our hearts that we will get through our problems. But while there is a God...there are others who believe they are living vicariously through him or her. Those are what's called....charlatans...phonies...some are even called cults. There's one like this in every place you go....and unfortunately there is one like that here in SCW. A plague of evil is above us...and it has the audacity to call themselves The Good Shepards."


I lean my head back a little before continuing.


"If there is one thing that I have always dealt with in my career...it's false prophets...wolves in sheep's clothing. That's who the leader Father Gerald Shepard is...as he is leading these lambs into the slaughter. For they are facing the unlikely team of me...and my future opponent for the Roulette Title, Mark Cross. Now I'm sure you boys probably think that just because we're set to face one another at December 2 Dismember for the title, that we don't trust each other. You couldn't be anymore wrong. Because I trust Mark Cross...he came to me face to face like a man and told me that he wants a shot at the title, a belt that he deserves a chance at..and I accepted. We both agree that we need to worry about the match later and focus on beating the holy bejeezus out of the two of you."


I knew these boys would be tough...both of them wanting to make a name for themselves.


"Boys...I gotta know...what exactly have you accomplished lately? Nothing. Sure you've had a few good matches under your belts, but where is the gold? Father Gerald has done nothing but lead his flock into mediocrity ever since he slimed his way into SCW..what rewards have you reaped? Oh that's right..you guys are kicking ass for the lord right? That's all fine and dandy. But you are going up against two of the mainstays of Sin City. Another disappointing loss is in your future.""


The cold wind blows through my hair...I can feel the cold reception I'll likely get from them.


"What was you said a few months ago Father?....those who need him the most, but have been the great deceivers lies and earthly wealth. I believe it was Matthew 7:15 that said..Beware of false prophets which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. The group is getting stronger every day..and you're looking to make an example out the both of us...but the problem is, the two of us..even though we have never been a tag team as much as you both have..we both have momentum going in to December 2 Dismember, and we are looking to showcase our abilities and show why our match is gonna be the hottest match on the card, and we are gonna do so...by taking out the both of you."


I put my hands in my pocket as I walk down the stairs.


"But I do wonder...with the ever growing group that you guys got, will it be a real tag match? Or will more come out of the woodwork and try and attack me and Mark? If you're the kinda stand up guys...real men..then you'll deal with us on an even playing field instead of trying to push your boss's twisted agenda in taking over SCW. Because we are both going in and expecting a fight...a straight tag match, are you? Do we pose a threat to you both? Because a victory over us would be a huge feather in your caps. We will be waiting for the two of you to show us what you got."


I look at the moon...looks very good tonight.


"Forgive us Father, for we are about to sin...big time. The Dragon...The Rock Soldier, two cosmic forces who are set to collide for one of the most important titles in SCW are going to team up to take on a bunch of slaves to a cult leader. We've already said our prayers, and we've made peace with what we are about to do. The people came to see a show, they came to see some ass kicking action...and we are just the guys to give it to them. May God have mercy on your souls.....for we won't."


I then turn away and leave as the camera gets turned off by Alice.

 I was so glad that Alice was back in SCW. With her back, it feels as if everything is complete. It was our dream for us to open up our own detective agency. I went out and got everything set up...getting a desk in the arena hallway and a door...no seriously a door. I got it set up a few feet from the desk with the sign, please knock. I begin setting things up on the desk as I hear Charles come up.

Charles Hawkins: ..Wow..so this is your office..

I then look over to him.

Griffin Hawkins: Dude! Have you ever heard of knocking?!

He looks at me as if I am crazy..and then at the door.

Charles Hawkins: Are you serious?...

Griffin Hawkins: As a heart attack! At least show courtesy for God's sake..

Charles Hawkins: ...fine.

He leaves the "Office" and then knocks on the door.

Griffin Hawkins: Come in, it's open!

He opens the door, entering my makeshift office.

Griffin Hawkins: Oh hey bro, I knew you'd come by sooner or later.

Charles Hawkins: Yeah...so this is your office? Where's the rest of it?

Griffin Hawkins: It's everything you see here bro, THIS is where the magic happens. The Detective Agency is officially open.

Charles Hawkins: I wouldn't break out the champagne just yet Griff, you two still got that mixed tag match against Teddy and Kate.

I stop for a second...wishing it didn't have to come to this.

Griffin Hawkins: I really....you know I really thought she was better than that. I feel like such an idiot...

Charles Hawkins: Don't beat yourself up...she fooled a lot of people, that girl is just...nuts.

Griffin Hawkins: At least I won't have to deal with her...Alice has assured me that she'll take care of her while I take care of Teddy.

Charles Hawkins: In speaking of which..Teddy seems to have changed awfully quick..suddenly he wants to put all this behind him..

Griffin Hawkins: Somehow...I don't trust him. You don't do a 180 in the span of a few weeks. This could be one of his tricks in the hopes of playing mind games with me like I did with him..if he wants to do his talking, he can do it in the ring.

Charles Hawkins: What about that rematch though? He is still owed one.

Griffin Hawkins: Anytime he wants another shot at me..he's got it. But I'm not gonna get tricked again...

Charles Hawkins: But are you sure you and Alice can make a good team? Teddy and Kate seem more experienced than this than you do.

Griffin Hawkins: Of course dude, we've been wanting to do this for years and now it's finally happening. What a debut!

Charles Hawkins: Let's just see how things go...

I look over at everything...looking at the walls.

Griffin Hawkins: Hmm..perhaps a water cooler should go there...or a gargoyle fountain that spits blood...

Charles Hawkins: Is this an office or a Slayer video?..

Griffin Hawkins: ....it could be both.

We continue to go over office ideas for the next hour..but in the back of my mind..I was looking forward to teaming with Alice, wondering what kind of team we'll make.

---------------------------------

~Long Ago..~

This wasn't the first time me and Alice were set to team up for a tag match. In another company before SCW, we were slated to team up in our first ever tag team match. I had only known her for a year at that point, but me and her ended up bonding over movies...TV and wrestling. I was on the phone..late to the arena.

Griffin Hawkins: Alice don't worry, I will be there. We got a tag team match and we're gonna give them one hell of a show.

Alice Knight: I just hope you didn't stop for Tim Horton's...

I look over to the box which was sitting in the passenger's side of the car.

Griffin Hawkins: No....no of course not! But I am on my way. Just wait for me at the employee entrance.

Alice Knight: Alright..seeya soon!

Griffin Hawkins: Be ready!

I hang up the phone, focusing on the road...not seeing the oncoming drunk driver from the side...

I didn't even see him coming...but I felt a crash, as if everything went black. I didn't know what had happened...in between waking up..and passing out, I see paramedics standing over me as I am loaded into what looks to be an ambulance. All I could think about was Alice...and my brother and sister and the rest of my family that I might never see again..

After what seems like an eternity...I wake up...looking up at a familiar face looking down at me.

Griffin Hawkins: ....Alice?...

Alice Knight: Hey...

I didn't even know where I was.

Griffin Hawkins: ...What the hell happened?..

Alice Knight: You were in an accident..they say you have some bruises and you broke your arm..

I look over to my arm that has a cast over it.

Griffin Hawkins: Oh man...that's my guitar playing arm...

Alice Knight: At least you're okay..you got lucky.

Griffin Hawkins: ....Alice...I'm sorry...I know you were looking forward to this match and...

Alice Knight: Shh Shh Shh...I don't care about the Tag Match, I care about you...all I could think about is if you were gonna make it or not..

Griffin Hawkins: ...I just feel like an idiot for ruining our big chance..

Alice Knight: It's not your fault..the driver was drunk, wasn't looking where he was going..he's got it worse than you from what I heard..

Griffin Hawkins: I can only imagine...so..now what?

Alice Knight: We'll have our chance...someday. What matters is you're still here. Just recover and you'll be back in the saddle again..

She was taking this so well..I didn't understand it. She must have really cared for me. She was truly a great friend.

Griffin Hawkins: ...thank you for being here Alice...I swear to you we will have our moment in the sun someday..

Alice Knight: We definitely will..

She sits back down...she had been waiting for me this whole time.

Griffin Hawkins: You really don't have to stay, I'm gonna be fine.

Alice Knight: No way...I'm not gonna leave my best buddy alone. Whatever you go through...I'll be with you.

I couldn't tell her no..it had been a while since someone looked out for me.

Griffin Hawkins: Thanks Alice...you're a damn good friend.

Alice Knight: Sooo...will I get to sign your cast?

Griffin Hawkins: Of course.

We talked for hours until I was released days later, it was then where I found out how deep the friendship between me and Alice was..someday I would return the favor.


------------------------------------
Cameras go to...well, the makeshift office I created. I sit at the desk, my feet kicked up as I pull back on my office chair.

"Anyone who'll tell you, I have accomplished many things in my time here in SCW. I'm a former Internet Champion...and a two time Roulette Champion. But you never hear a lot of things about my exploits in a tag team. Because mainly I'm a singles guy. But this year I have been part of some successful tag matches. One with Roxi and Keira as I officially became the third member of Team Hero..and now, with me and Alice Knight. Alice is someone who I trust more than anything, someone who's willing to go to the ends of the earth with me just to assure that we come back victorious. She was in my corner to keep Kate Steele in line...and now once again she'll be in my corner, only this time as my tag partner as we take on the husband and wife team of Teddy Warren and Kate Steele. This is our chance to rid the SCW of both those clowns once and for all.."

I smile, relaxing back in my chair.

"Did you ever hear the one about the chick name Kate who thought she knew shit..but didn't know shit..and ended up losing and causing two..soon to be three horrible black marks on her legacy?...we just saw that this year. Kate decided that she was going pull the wool over everyone's eyes by putting on a mask and pretending to be Teddy's "Diamond". Seriously Kate..you and Teddy are something else. Universe gives you a sign and you shove your finger right up it's ass. You wanted to get Teddy noticed...so you had him put on makeup..put on heels..leave the Underground and onto the main roster. You wanted him to be a star...you wanted him to be somebody. And to everyone's shock...it worked! Because he managed to get all the eyes of the world on him...when he became the Roulette champion. Meanwhile you played up this facade of Teddy losing his mind...cheating on you as you were begging me day and night to knock some damn sense into him..."

I then clap my hands.

"Bravo Katie...congratulations. You did what was impossible..you guided Teddy to championship gold. But what happened after that Katie?....the minute I made my presence known that I wanted a rematch, you immediately took to social media and told me to stay down, you told me to stay away and leave your husband alone. Why?....because you know for a fact that Teddy can't beat me one on one. That's why you made it your mission to try and take out just about every woman backstage, and Belinda Simone..a retired wrestler who wanted nothing to do but call the action. But the look on your face said it all when you found out the mystery Bombshell in my corner was none other than Alice Knight. Every time you tried to interfere in the match, she was there to stop you..making sure this was a one on one match. You can make up an excuse saying that I'm only champion because of Alice Knight's interference. It's true, she did help..but it was only to keep you out of the match so I can focus on Teddy...and I made good on her help and I beat him for the gold..and now you are gonna be the one who deals with Alice..and believe me...you're not gonna like what she does to you."


Words couldn't express how I felt about Kate.


"Teddy Steele...this is like the third time we meet up. Seems to be like a recurring theme with us. I beat you..you beat me...we're both tied to one win a piece when it comes to the Roulette Title. Which is why suddenly....I'm confused to you wanting to end this war...win or lose. You said on twitter that you want to end this drama and move on, rekindling our friendship. While that sounds nice, I don't trust you, I'll say that right now. Because you and your wife managed to fool everyone into thinking that you were having a marital spat...all so you can get your hands on the Roulette Title. I mean..forgive me if I don't seem so trusting. Like seriously man..I'm not stupid, I can tell when someone is deceiving me."


I reach over and grab the title.


"You see this belt Teddy? I earned it. And as this rivalry comes to an end, history books will say that I regained this belt from you. I out wrestled you...I out smarted you...and I beat you, and that's the truth. If you were to pin me...you would indeed be owed a title match. I already told you the night I won that you are entitled to a rematch..despite you trying to get out of giving me one the night you took this belt from me. But it seems to be different now...the veil has been lifted and you and Kate have been exposed. And now it seems that the entire roster hates you more than ever..and you want to make amends...but you REALLY wanna prove yourself Teddy?"


I lean closer.


"When this match is over...shake my hand. Win or lose...shake my hand. You're trying to turn over a new leaf....trying to move forward and move on...then you'll have no problem shaking my hand when this is all over, admitting to your wrongdoings over the last few months, disrespecting not just me, but the Roulette Title and all it stands for. Because win or lose..you have to prove yourself to me and SCW. Course..I'm not gonna go down without a fight in this mixed tag match. I've already proven that I can beat you, and I am willing to do it again. Even though the title is not on the line, i'm gonna fight as if it is. You and Kate got a lot of proving to do, and me and Alice will be on our game. Sunday...you two are gonna get rocked."


The camera crew leave my "Office". As they turn everything off.

  It had been a while since I had been to the old training school. Mickey Ramone made me the man you see now with his hard nosed old school attitude. I decided to arrive, see how he and his training school is holding up.

I hoped things wouldn't be awkward.

I didn't know how he'd take me coming back after so long. Finally one day I decided to head to Windsor Ontario Canada to see how things are going. I arrived at the gym and to my surprise, its still standing and still active. I see many trainers working with young up and coming rookies in the ring, doing their cardio, squats, and other exercises. I almost feel a twinge of nostalgia as I look at these young guys. I look at a huge Caucasian male with short blonde hair getting himself a bottle of water.

Griffin Hawkins: Excuse me..but...

His eyes suddenly grows huge as he looks at me.

Skip Jensen: Oh...my...God!

Griffin Hawkins: ...something wrong?

Skip Jensen: Dude...you're Griffin Hawkins! Oh my God, I am a HUGE fan of yours dude!

Griffin Hawkins: ...you...are? I'm kinda surprised that I'd meet a fan here..

Skip Jensen: Surprised? Dude, you are like..a legend here! All the guys and girls here know who you are. You graduated from here and people have kept track of you since!

Griffin Hawkins: Wow, I had no idea...so..whats your name dude?

Skip Jensen: Skip! Skip Jensen...been training here for like a year now.

Griffin Hawkins: Well, it's nice to meet you Skip...I'm looking for Mickey, is he around?

"Right here..."

I slowly turn around and see a familiar old man with white hair and a bit of a rough looking face. He was in his usual sweats with a whistle around his neck.

Griffin Hawkins: Mick..hey...

Mickey Ramone: So the prodigal son returns..

Skip Jensen: Sir, I was just telling Griff all about...

He cuts him off.

Mickey Ramone: Get back to work Jensen. I wanna talk with Hawkins alone.

He nods and walks off. Leaving me alone with my old trainer.

Mickey Ramone: Never thought I'd see you around these parts again.

Griffin Hawkins: I know it's been a while, but with my current match coming up, I'm feeling a bit nostalgic to come back to where it all started.

Mickey Ramone: Is that so? I figure a big star like you wouldn't show his face around here again..most forget this old run down place.

Griffin Hawkins: Not me Mick...I haven't forgotten my roots. I'm coming up against an old vet, Bill Barnhart.[/colro]

Mickey Ramone: I know..I've been watching you for a while. I saw you win back your title, good shit. Just make sure you don't lose it again.

Griffin Hawkins: That's always a concern. That's why I want you to train me, like the old days.

I could tell he wasn't expecting a request like that. He looked at me as if I just came from another planet.

Mickey Ramone: I swear kid, you are something else. You take off for a few years, become a big superstar..and now you come back expecting me to train you?

Griffin Hawkins: Well....yes.

Mickey Ramone: That man Bill Barnhart...he's a threat. Big son of a bitch, been around the block for quite a while he could take your title if you're not careful.

Griffin Hawkins: That's why I want your training Mick..you come from the same era as him, you know how people like him wrestle. I figure on this occasion, I play his game.

Mickey Ramone: Then you've already lost. If you're gonna play his game, then you've already lost. He uses strength and submission...you need to use what brought you to the dance, speed and agility.

Griffin Hawkins: So...does this mean you'll train me?

Mickey Ramone: Let's say I do...and you win. Will this be the last I see of you around here?

Griffin Hawkins: Well...I guess I could come around here more often, maybe be a guest trainer for some of the kids here.

Mickey Ramone: Jesus Christ Hawkins, these boys and girls already fawn over you like you're some kind of God..do you really wanna bring that around here on a regular basis?

Griffin Hawkins: Well I figure it's better than just coming here and disappearing for another few years..besides, I could help out many of them so they don't fuck up as much as I did.

Mickey Ramone: Alright fine....I'll train you. But you gotta listen and follow directions. If you're not careful...that big bastard is gonna make your reign the shortest one ever. Now get in the ring..we got work to do.

Griffin Hawkins: Mick..this is the start of a beautiful friendship...

Mickey Ramone: ...I'm starting to regret this already.

I took off my leather jacket and got in the ring with Mickey, and we trained for hours. I started to feel like I did back when he first trained me, only my head is on straight this time. I hope it's enough to beat Barnhart.

-------------------------------------------

~Many Years Ago~

Things were never easy for me. I had the drive to wrestle...but a lot of times I allowed myself to get sidetracked by my usual vices..it would cause me to be late, not show up on time, just doing everything I shouldn't be doing. Years ago, I joined the training school, and I didn't exactly take it as seriously as I should have. In the ring I was tying up with a rookie, but I felt lethargic and not awake. After I fell after a drop toe hold, I didn't really feel like getting up. I heard the whistle blowing, it was Mick who climbed into the ring.

Mickey Ramone: Just what the hell was that?...

I slowly get up.

Griffin Hawkins: ...I guess I'm just tired sir...

Mickey Ramone: Really? is that why a few of my students tell me that you were out all night last night at the strip club to explain why you were late this morning?

I didn't know how to reply to that...

Griffin Hawkins: It's not what you....

Mickey Ramone: Answer the question..were you or were you out last night at the strip club?

I couldn't lie to him...he would only make things harder for me if I did.

Griffin Hawkins: .....Yes.

Mickey Ramone: ....You're done. Get the hell out of my gymnasium.

Griffin Hawkins: .....what?

Mickey Ramone: Pack up your shit, and get out. You've wasted enough of my time.

I felt my heart sink to the floor...my dream was dead due to my own stupidity. He walked back into his office and shut the door. I did not want to just end things just like that. I quickly rush after him, nearly breaking the door open to his office.

Mickey Ramone: I thought I told you to leave Hawkins. Why are you still here?

Griffin Hawkins: Mick...I can't leave..

Mickey Ramone: You clearly don't give two shits about being here, you care more about heading to the titty bar all hours of the night and showing up hungover thinking that I'm just gonna keep training you.

Griffin Hawkins: Okay..you're right, I missed up. I was banged up from all the training and wanted to just go somewhere to unwind..

Mickey Ramone: People unwind by hitting the gym, taking ice baths, looking over what errors they did and learn from them...they don't go stuffing bills down some stripper's g-string.

Griffin Hawkins: I understand sir...but you can't just kick me out, this has been something that I've wanted since I was a kid, I finally got my foot in the door and it's gonna be horrible that I messed up everything...just..give me another chance.

He then gets up from his chair, walking by the many photos of himself from the old days, and current ones with graduates from his school.

Mickey Ramone: I've been doing this for a long time Hawkins...I've seen people like you pass through here many times...they don't take this school seriously. Some just want to be a wrestler so they can make money and get laid...they have no passion for the sport. What you have is a gift..something that you have been blessed with. And it angers me to see a kid like you waste it when you stay out all hour of the night and show up late..that tells me right there that you don't have the heart to do what I have done for years to put food on my family's table. So tell me...am I right..or wrong about you?

This seems to be a loaded question...I didn't know how to answer it, but I wanted to be honest.

Griffin Hawkins: ...I'm here to learn sir...I'll do anything to prove myself to you if you give me this one more chance. I promise I will do whatever is necessary to succeed under your watch.

Mickey Ramone: ....This is your final chance Hawkins. What this means is, you arrive here around the same time everyone else does, at 8:00. Not 8:35, not 8:15...8 AM on the button. You want to be here? Prove it to me by showing up instead of going out to party all night. Are we clear?

Griffin Hawkins: ..Yes...yes we are.

Mickey Ramone: Good..now get your ass back out there and train...don't blow this second chance.

Griffin Hawkins: ...Thank you.

I was thankful that he gave me another chance. Mickey was old school, a hardass, but he knew the business in and out...and knew when someone had potential. I thank him to this day for giving me my chance...little did I know, I'd be facing an established vet in the future.

-----------------------------------------------

Cameras open in the old gym where I am wrestling against an up and comer. Hopefully this kid will amount to something and not go through the things I went through. After a few grappling and some tie in moves, Mickey shouts for us to take 5. I get out of the ring, resting on the steel steps, grabbing a bottle of water.


"Veterans of this sport...have always came into a company like a conquering hero. Someone like Ace Hart burst into Sin City some months ago, acting like the whole locker room should kiss his ass just because he was a big name elsewhere...hence why he didn't last long. And then in comes none other than Bill Barnhart. Unlike Ace..he has respect for the locker room and is not looking to use this company as a place to promote some second rate company. Barnhart is a vet...he's been around this sport for many years, no stranger to gold. And now he arrives here at SCW looking to add to his resume. The only problem is..it's on my time. Why? Because he is the number one contender, and I am the Roulette Champion..I made a promise to win my belt back and I always deliver. I haven't even had the time to open the bottle of champagne with Alice until I was reminded that my first title defense is at High Stakes against the big bad Bulldog himself."


I take a swig of the bottled water.


"First ever meeting between you and I Barnhart. This is the dream match you have been talking about for weeks now. You ran down a laundry list of people that you wanted to fight, and on top of that list.....was me. Don't think I took my eye off you for one moment. Because you earned that number one contendership...that meant that you would get a shot at whoever is Roulette Champion at High Stakes IX, the biggest show of the year. I kept my focus on beating Teddy Warren for the Roulette Title...knowing that I would be going up against you immediately. As I was preparing for you....I watched in the shadows as you went out and wrestled...but what happened?"


I made sure to keep an eye on him.


"You lost...to Tony Thorn...and then to Jake Raab. And then....you lost to Fenris. You haven't really been doing all that well lately by the looks of it. You're supposed to be the number one contender to the Roulette Title, your first taste of Gold. But you continuously come up short again and again. This isn't me ragging on you at all, I'm just saying that this is a match that you can't afford to lose Bill. Because this loss would be bigger than the last ones you have experienced so far. If you lose to me, there won't be a rematch. You will have to go to the bottom of the long line of contenders...you'll start from the beginning to get a shot at my title. You worked hard for this particular shot Bill...my advice, don't blow it."


I can hear many rookies in the back hitting the heavy sandbags.


"A month ago...you laid out a challenge to all the men who were in the 6 Man Ultimate X Match for the Roulette Title...I wanna know why that is. Yes..you won the number one contendership, but a challenge like that makes you look insecure..as if people are saying that your victory may have been a fluke, an accident. You said that out of everyone, Caleb Storms is the only man to have guts enough to accept the challenge. When in reality, those same men refused to give you the time of day because you made yourself look like an overgrown child who's trying to get everyone to notice him. And who was the only one who accepted your challenge? Caleb Storms..like wow...Caleb Storms. The same guy who practically wet his pants whenever Fenris challenged him..the same guy who can't even buy a win these days...and you're proud of that victory over him? Because I got news for you bro...I beat that guy a month ago in a title match and won, so I wouldn't be putting out my hall of fame speech just yet. Truth is Billy Boy...I'm not Caleb Storms. I'm Griffin Hawkins..the man who's been a prominent fixture in the Roulette Division, and what you don't get, is that I am ready to defend this belt against you in any match possible."


I really wanted to make a statement using Barnhart. I got my title back and was looking to pick up where I left off.


"It seems that all you talk about is dream matches. You want a dream match with this guy, you want a dream match with that guy, you wanna face this guy, that guy, whatever whatever whatever. That's the difference between us Bill. I didn't come back here just to have "dream matches". For me..it's not enough to just be back. I want to go straight to the top. In fact, my main goal is to one day become World Heavyweight Champion. So you can have all your dream matches and whatnot, but at the end of the day it don't mean a damn thing until you win it or if you walk out with the gold. You wanted me in a match? Well...you should be careful what you ask for."


I take another drink of water before I continue.


"You mentioned before about how you study your opponents which is all well and good. You can sit at your house and study all the matches about me all you like, hell, you can show up at High Stakes IX with a PHD in your back pocket when it comes to Griffin Hawkins...because truthfully, you don't realize that I can beat you any kind of way, whether it be pinfall...or submission. I even dug into my old moves in my title match and pulled out a blast from the past...the Whammy Bar, a move that I have not used in years and I made Teddy Warren tap out to win the Roulette Title for the second time. See Bill, you probably studied me from beginning to finish, but do you really know me? You studied men like Fenris, and he ended up proving you wrong. If you're gonna study, study hard..because I am coming to win."


I slowly rise up.


"See...I am a veteran just like you Bill. I've been doing this for 15 years and I have seen men like you come and men like you go. You're not the first veteran that I shared a ring with. I have faced men who have been in this business just as long as you have. I know what I am getting into. Sure, you're big, you're strong, you got the power to throw me around like a ragdoll, but you're not the first big guy I've been in the ring with. Your experience means nothing to me, what means more is that I am willing to lay it all on the line to prove once again why I am the greatest athlete in SCW history. So bring all you got Big Dog....because It's time that someone puts you down.


I then get back up and get back in the ring. Under Mickey's watchful eye I begin training with one of the young upstarts of the gym as the camera crew leave.

 I always looked forward to this time of the year...family reunion. I get to see everyone from my Mom's side...to my Dad's side, and everyone in between. We all gathered up on a nice brisk day in Windsor Ontario Canada where my brother, my sister, my Mom and my cousins were. I saw Colt and Brandi talking with my wife Taylor, catching up on old times as we were having a big barbecue at my Mom's Summer Home by the beach. Colt was grilling as I got myself a hot dog, looking out at the beach before me made me think on things for a while. I then heard Charles' voice as he came up to me.

Charles Hawkins: Hey, hows it going?

Griffin Hawkins: Good, just enjoying this time with the family. It's been a while since I've actually talked to them..

Charles Hawkins: As long as you never forget them, they'll always be there for you.

I continued to look out at the sea.

Griffin Hawkins: I've been...wondering something.

Charles Hawkins: What's that?

Griffin Hawkins: Am I anything like Jake Raab?

Charles Hawkins: Well I never seen you whine and cry like a baby the minute things go south for you.

Griffin Hawkins: Well not like that..but in a way we are similar. Both trying to make a name for ourselves in our own way. Trying to escape the family shadow..

Charles Hawkins: So...what are you most afraid of?

Griffin Hawkins: I just don't wanna end up like him..I mean look at how crazy its driving him..especially since his Uncle is gonna go in the Hall of Fame. He's struggling to make something of himself, I don't want that to be me.

I then notice Charles let out a laugh.

Charles Hawkins: Bro, are you shitting me? Really? You can never compare yourself to Jake Raab, it's like comparing apples to oranges.

Griffin Hawkins: ....which one am I?

Charles Hawkins: ..just focus here. The old man kicked you out when you were only 18..and he told you not to come back until you've made something of yourself, and look at you now. You're known all over the wrestling world..and you did it without the family. It's Raab who's struggling to get his name out there...so there is no comparison between you two.

Griffin Hawkins: Yeah...I guess it's still kinda stinging me that in the record books, Jake Raab holds a victory over me.

Charles Hawkins: That's why you got the chance to avenge that loss. This has nothing to do with family...this is between you and him. This kid thinks he's better than he really is, but someone like you can bring him down to earth.

Griffin Hawkins: I got no problem doing that...honestly I keep asking myself how in the hell could I lose to him...I could say it was a fluke, but that's not me. Stuff like that never happens.

Charles Hawkins: Forget what happened before and focus on now...and no pressure but the family is gonna be watching...

Griffin Hawkins: That makes me feel so much better...

Charles Hawkins: We'll be proud of you win or lose bro..until then let's just enjoy this time with the family.

I nod and walk back with Charles to join the others. I was happy to be with my family, course there were times when I needed to be there for them more than anything...

-------------------------------------------

~September 23rd, 2007~

I try and keep my family drama out of the spotlight...but it always seems to find a way to get on the radar. I had finally been wrestling to get away from my family's shadow...looking to get my name out there...I had already won my first title.

...but something happened.

Controversy seemed to have followed my family...and for once I had nothing to do with it. After seeing the media have a field day with what was going on, I decided that I was going to check and see how things were. Course, this was the first time I had ever been back home after being banished from the house.

I had to see my family.

I pulled up on my Motorcycle to the mansion where many of the paparazzi were practically camping out. I get off and head to the front door. I'm practically being mobbed with camera men and reporters asking me questions. I brush past them, not wanting to answer anything.

Griffin Hawkins: Get outta my fucking way!

I probably shouldn't have reacted like that...it's what they wanted. After what seemed like an eternity, I make it to the front door, knocking on it. I hear a female voice inside sounding frustrated.

"For the last time, no comments!"

The woman opened the door and froze when she saw me.

Patricia Hawkins: ....Griffin?....

Griffin Hawkins: ...Hi Mom, can I come in?

She slowly nods, allowing me to come inside. I take off my leather jacket, hanging it on the rack.

Patricia Hawkins: I haven't heard from you in..ages actually.

Griffin Hawkins: Well I've been meaning to come by and see how the family is..sorry it has to be under these circumstances.

Patricia Hawkins: I'm just glad to see a familiar face that's not from TMZ.

I knew I was just stalling..there was no way to beat around the bush.

Griffin Hawkins: I'm....really sorry about Dad.

Patricia Hawkins: It's okay..I'm learning to deal with it...it's a long road ahead.

Griffin Hawkins: How could Dad do this?...like seriously..Embezzling? Did he really think he wasn't gonna get caught?...this is gonna ruin the family business's reputation for sure

Patricia Hawkins: Surprisingly enough, that's not what upsets me..

Griffin Hawkins: What is it?....

She then looks down. I quickly go up to her, taking her hand.

Griffin Hawkins: Mom...tell me.

Patricia Hawkins: ....he was having an affair.

Griffin Hawkins: ...What?

Patricia Hawkins: When the Police picked him up at the restaurant he was with her..

Griffin Hawkins: Who was it? His Secretary?...

Patricia Hawkins: It was a young girl...a 21 year old girl..

I was at loss for words. I had hated Dad for many things..his abusive nature, him not being there for me, even kicking me out of my own home. But I had a reason that trumps them all, him cheating on Mom with some girl who was half his age.

Griffin Hawkins: Mom...I am so sorry...

I can see her heart breaking as she begins crying. I quickly hug her.

Griffin Hawkins: It's gonna be okay Mom..somehow this is gonna work out..

After I let go she tries to maintain her composure.

Patricia Hawkins: I kicked him out of the house...been looking up divorce lawyers.

Griffin Hawkins: That does sound like the right thing to do..

She then takes my hand.

Patricia Hawkins: Griffin...I didn't agree with how your Dad kicked you out of here..in fact I didn't agree with a lot of what he did. Whatever you want to do now...keep doing it..what matters is you're happy doing what you love.

That really meant a lot to me...Mom had always been my big supporter. She needed some happiness in her life.

Griffin Hawkins: ...I will Mom, you don't know how much your support means to me.

Patricia Hawkins: I know for sure that you'll be a better man than your Father is.

I decide to spend the rest of the day with her. I knew then that Family more than ever means the world to me. I didn't have to be part of the family legacy...but I would get my own name out there in my own way.

---------------------------------------------

I should be in the Islands, preparing for the match. But I decided to go somewhere before I make my trip to the islands...an old place full of memories, the park. The same place where I spent my youth. On this night I come into the shot as the camera man has the light on, following me. I walk over to the swing set, dressed in a leather jacket with a Amon Amarth T-Shirt on underneath and blue ripped jeans. I grab one of the chains holding up the swing and speak.


"Family...the one thing in life that drives people. Something you can't buy, something you can't steal, something you are born with. I used to come here to this park every day with my Mom and Dad..playing on the swings, going down the slide..climbing the monkey bars. Sometimes I'd wonder where I'd be without my family...years later the questions were answered when I was exiled from my home..forced to go my own way. Where would Jake Raab be without his family? Where would he be without his father, his uncle or his 57 other animals who are somehow connected to him? It's true he's had some ups and downs over the last few months, now....we meet up for the 2nd time in a row.."


I go over and sit on the swings.


"I know you're probably still gloating over the fact that you've defeated me the first time we faced off. After you beat me,  you told it to Konrad Raab, you told it to Markus Raab, you told it to Momma Raab, you told it to Daddy Raab,  Uncle Joe Raab with the Glass Eye, Grandpa Jimmy Jack Raab with the Iron Lung, and even Grandma Jezebel Raab with the false teeth and blue hair..you told the whole family. Yeah, you did beat me..but what in the hell have you done since then? Nothing. I went on to have a dominant reign over the summer as Roulette Champion, while you were handed chance after chance after chance that should've gone to more deserving guys and you pissed them all away. When I get opportunities, I make the best of them. When you get opportunities, you blow them. Sure, you'll get one big win..and then of course you'll allow it to go to your head, and what ends up happening? Someone else comes along and beats you and you end up going back to where you started."


I shake my head..almost disappointed.


"You're a great athlete Jake, there's no doubt about that. Anyone who beats me clean in the ring has gotta be worth something. But do you know what your main problem always is? You care WAY too much about what people think of you. Whenever someone on social media, or back in the locker room says at least one negative thing about you..you go on national television and bitch about it. This wrestling kid, this isn't Sesame Street..not everyone is gonna say something nice about you. No one is gonna pat you on the head and tell you..."good job man, keep it up!"..and send you on your way. You have to earn that recognition. If you can't handle someone criticizing you..then get the hell out of our sport. Every member of that locker room including me has had worse shit said about them..but did you see us whine and cry about it? No. We took it in stride and we went on to win championships..the same can't be said for you. If you cared less about what people said about you and more on perfecting your craft, maybe you'd have some gold by now..hell, maybe you would've beaten Ty West. But that's not to be. Nobody here respects you. And do you know why nobody in that locker room respects you Jake? Because whenever something doesn't go your way, or someone says something bad about you, you throw a great big temper tantrum like a child who just got his toys taken away..seriously, my youngest son is more mature than you.  You call yourself "The Firey Target"..probably because you make yourself a target for everyone to mock you endlessly. Course after our match, we're gonna get the mother of all tantrums when I even the score and beat you in that very ring."


I slowly get up off the swings, going over to the slide. I begin climbing up as the camera man makes sure to keep his eye on me.


"While we both seem similar Jake..we are also different. Unlike you..I don't  need to go "find myself" every time I lose a match. I don't need to go out and throw out challenges to the entire roster for a gauntlet match to "prove myself". A week ago you said you were gonna find yourself..but you don't even know what you are anymore Jake. I mean..you don't know if you're a wrestler, or an MMA Fighter..or even an Archery expert. Jesus Christ kid..you're trying to put eggs in 15 different baskets at once...and you haven't even filled one of them yet! You're a regular jack of all trades..and a master of none. If you actually focused on one thing..maybe you'd be better than your uncle. But instead..you shit the bed against Ty West so hard..you had no choice but to admit to yourself that he kicked your ass. Now, I may have lost to you..I admit it. But does that make you better than me? No it doesn't. Because we've seen what happens after you get too overconfident. You make a mistake and you end up counting the lights. You know what they say about people who fail to learn from history."


I begin climbing down.


"The other problem you have Raab..is you complain about everything. You act as if the whole world should roll over and kiss your ass just because you're trying to escape the Raab name. How do I know? Because at one time..I was you. I went down the same road you're going down. Angry...mad at the world..thought everybody owed me something, thought that everybody was out to get me and keep me from being successful. I see the anger and bitterness in you..and now you probably want to take all your pent up frustrations out on me. If I were you I would do the same. Because after this..win or lose, I'm gonna move on and get back the Roulette Title..while you will continue to get a decent victory here and there..but choke when it matters the most."


More than anything..I need this victory.


"See Raab...I haven't forgotten that you beat me. I've been wanting a rematch with you for the longest time. I'll admit..you did beat me fair and square in our first encounter. Anyone can lose a match...but our time in SCW went in different directions after that. I went on to win the SCW Roulette Title and hold it for four months..one of the more dominant reigns in a long time. What did you do for four months? Continue to drop the ball again..and again and again and again and again. We're at a crossroads here Jake..where will our roads go after this match? I mean..you already beat the number one contender, meanwhile I am owed a title rematch against Teddy..and he has gone through great lengths to get out of giving me my rematch because deep down he doesn't think he can beat me one on one. Lord only knows what's gonna happen after this."


I put my hands int he pockets of my jacket.


"For me Raab..I'm already out of my family's shadow. I walked away from the rich privileged life and went out and made a name for myself. You on the other hand..haven't even done that. And in an ironic twist, your Uncle is going in the Hall of Fame while you can't even make anything of yourself. When people say my name in SCW..they put some respect on it..when they say your name, they laugh at you. But you got a chance to make it all right...by beating me for the second time in a row and who knows..just maybe you'll be in conversation for the Roulette Title. And as much as you try and say over and over you don't want title chances handed to you despite them being given anyway...I know you want some gold around your waist...but that don't mean you'll beat me again."


I knew I couldn't allow myself to slip and let Raab beat me again...


"Now I know usually whenever someone says their promo..you have some kind of rebuttal for them on the next episode of Climax Control because you just have to get the last word in. But the truth is Jake...the last word will be me holding my arms up in victory when I leave you laying on the mat. I have been waiting for months to shut you up once and for all, because just about everyone in that SCW locker room is sick and tired of listening to you whine and complain to management whenever you don't get your way. It's time for you to put up or finally..shut the fuck up. So don't think for one second I'm looking past you to get to Teddy...because I am focused one hundred percent on you. You beat me once...bravo...but this time around...The Firey Target is gonna get rocked."


I walk away from the scene as the camera crew pack up their equipment and leave.

 ~Thursday, 10:00 AM~

It has been years since I have been on a cruise...it was also the first time I ever wrestled on one. I was hoping to relax...a little time to chill before I wrestle the match of my life. Charles couldn't make the trip, but Geoff managed to come along with me. As we were walking along the ship, he was explaining all the rules to me for being on board.

Geoff Matthens: And if you're gonna play games, no cheating. You gotta play it fair and square.

Griffin Hawkins: Gotcha.

Geoff Matthens: And if you see a food you don't like at the buffet, don't eat it..you don't want to spit it out and cause a disgusting scene.

Griffin Hawkins: Yeah Yeah...

Geoff Matthens: And more importantly..The Poop Deck is NOT what it sounds like..

Griffin Hawkins: ...Well, you just saved me from having a very awkward incident.

Geoff Matthens: Griffin, this is serious! As your image consultant, I am here to make sure that you conduct yourself like a true professional.

Griffin Hawkins: Geoff, the only thing I wanna do before the big match is just relax and enjoy myself on this cruise.

Geoff Matthens: That's it? You're just gonna lounge around?

Griffin Hawkins: Well yeah..that's what everyone else is doing...

Geoff Matthens: The match of your life is in a few days and all you can do is lie around and soak up the sun?

Griffin Hawkins: Dude, that's the point of a cruise. To just sit back and enjoy the seas.

Geoff Matthens: Not when you're up against 5 of the best that SCW has to offer. This is your biggest threat to date, you NEED to take it more seriously.

Griffin Hawkins: I am..I just want to enjoy myself before the big match comes. Sit back..play some games..

Geoff Matthens: Oh my God that's it! You can play games to prepare for your match. Each one represents a different type of way to win your match.

Griffin Hawkins: Like...Bowling and Monopoly?

Geoff Matthens: Anything that helps you focus on your upcoming match. After you play..you can relax.

Griffin Hawkins: Fine I'll...consider it.

Geoff Matthens: While you're doing that..consider if you still wanna be Champion. Think about it.

He walked off. I really didn't feel like training for my match, I just wanted to chill out. But he was right about one thing...I had to prepare for the most important match ever. What was I going to do? I looked out at the sea as I leaned on the railing..how was I going to win this one?


--------------------------------------------

~Friday, 1:30 PM~

After thinking about it, I decided that maybe a few games on this ship wouldn't be bad. After all, I had to get competitive if I wanted to win this Ultimate X Match. As I walked the deck I looked and noticed an interesting game, Shuffleboard.



This looks interesting...I mean it can't be any different than Hockey. I go up to the group of people playing.

Griffin Hawkins: Excuse me! Can I play?

The two adults nod, inviting me. I grab a stick and see the pucks resting at the end. I knew I had to hit the pucks and knock the other out....I think. Thinking like a Hockey Player, I swing the stick and the puck goes flying...right into my opponent's groin. He goes down in a heap.

Griffin Hawkins: Oh my God, I am so sorry sir!

This is sure awkward. His wife and his friends are tending to him...this is not good. Awkwardly I put down the stick and walk fast...away from the scene. Despite me killing all chances of this guy ever having kids, I succeeded in one thing, connecting with the target. I would need that kind of aim for the Ultimate X Match...otherwise if I miss, it's game over. Moving on, I decide to try another game...Rock Climbing.

Now we're talking!

I strap on the gloves and the harness and begin climbing. As I climb up slowly, I think about the Ultimate X Match where I'd have to climb up and battle through the other competitors such as Teddy Steele and Mark Cross who want to make their mark in SCW by winning the Roulette Title. Without knowing it, I reached the top. But part of me felt like going the extra mile by climbing up further. Course...I managed to climb up towards a window which led to the women's bathroom...I could hear the women in there screaming.

"Pervert! Someone call the Captain!"

Shit..this is not good. I quickly climb down from the set, unhooking everything and rushing off. Getting away from there, I notice a sign on the door...Bingo tonight. This sounded right up my alley.



...man was I wrong. When they said Bingo, I expected a wrestling match..not some boring game. I sat in a booth while the lady up front kept calling numbers. I was expecting a free for all seeing as I'm gonna be surrounded by people who want to tear my head off.

Griffin Hawkins: What is this a Tea Party?! Someone do something!

I shove a nearby waiter..who spills his drink onto a customer. He gets up and punches him which sends him into a female customer's wife.

Female Customer: Get off me you pervert!

She shoves him off, which causes another customer to trip and fall into another group of guys. Before I know it, just about everyone in the hall is beating the hell out of one another. At least I got my wish...sort of. I quickly exit..only to see The Captain and two other men in uniform waiting for me.

Captain: We've been getting an awful lot of complaints about you..maybe some time in the Brig will teach you a lesson about respect.

Was I actually being thrown in jail? Tell me this isn't happening. They took me by my arms and started dragging me away.

Griffin Hawkins: You can't do this! I'm a member of SCW! Attica! Attica! Attica!

Things did not go as planned....what was next for me?


--------------------------------------------

Cameras go to....well, what do you think? The Brig. The room is small, just a single bed, a trash can...and an open toilet. I sit..alone to myself.


"Well that....did not go well. I ended up being thrown in the Brig...which many refer to as..Cruise Jail. But Christian had a talk with the Captain and he agreed to allow me to get out within the next hour. But if anything, I now know how to prepare for my opponents. Each one, a different kind of style, they all somehow mesh together, and they want one thing, to become Roulette Champion. I won't be in this Brig forever. When I am released from this prison cell, I promise I WILL go out there and defend my title."


I had a lot of time to think in the last few hours on my opponents.


"Teddy seems to think that he is better than me in every way, and in fact better than everyone else. Too much arrogance can kill a man. But why are you better in fact Teddy? Because you got a couple of STD ridden hoes who sing your phrases? Because you dress like you raided your wife's closet? Because you wear more makeup than the entire Bombshell Division combined? Help me out here. As far as me not having "real" competition in SCW, I guess you paid no attention to me in the last few months. Because everyone who stepped up and wanted a shot at the Roulette Title, I defeated. Hell, I even beat what many would say was an unbeatable Travis Levitt. What exactly have YOU done lately?"


I tilt my head back before continuing.


"I get that you're upset that this isn't a one on one match, but me..I don't care. If it means getting my hands on you and beating your pink coated ass...I'll take it any other way. Because back when you were carrying Kate's bags, I was winning titles and main eventing Climax Control shows. Also..you're not the first to be Goth, you're just too late. Because last time I was here, I beat him...but you don't see me bragging about it. Goth isn't in this match, so you need to check that shit at the door. Your dreams of changing the division is gonna go up in smoke as I remove you from this match myself. You wanna take over the Roulette Division? Then you're gonna have to go through me dude, and so far all you've proven is you're good at is jumping me from behind like a little bitch. But I guess it's fitting that you got those girls with you, because none of you have a set of balls. So Teddy, you wanna put me out? You want to take the torch from me? I welcome you to try."


Someone needed to bring Teddy down a peg, hopefully that man would be me.


"Some would say the wild card in this is Mark Cross...The Dragon. Why? Because he wasn't even in conversation for the Roulette Title in the last few weeks. Adding him changes the whole game, because we've seen what he can do. Sure, his personal life is going down the tubes, but he is NOT allowing it to effect his professional career, and I respect that. But then I remember he wants his first taste of Sin City Gold..MY Gold. And I can't allow that to happen. Cross is gonna be one hell of a champion one day, no doubt about that. But I have to make sure that that day does NOT take place on the 25th of August. As much as I consider him a friend, I have to do what a Champion does and snuff out his dreams."


I can hear the others outside talking about the festivities of the super card, only making me more anxious.


"You see Mark, the way you worded yourself, you talk as if you're the Underdog going in. You mentioned you're the guy nobody wants in this match. That makes you even more dangerous. Why? Because I have been in that spot many times in my career. Being the guy nobody bets on makes a person desperate. It makes them willing to do anything and everything to come out the winner. I saw it in myself..and I see it in you. I was serious when I said that I consider you my biggest threat in this match..because you want to be someone who is the best in the industry today, and winning the title is the first step. But know this Mark, I don't hold back...and I don't expect you to either. Can I put out the flames of The Dragon?...time to find out."[/color


I sit on the bed, rocking back and forth.


"Lachlan Kane...one of the many people I respect. Things have fallen by the wayside for you. You lost in your bid to become Roulette Champion...and as Team Eggplant...weird name...you failed to get some tag gold as well. Something is obviously wrong with you Lachlan. Some are saying that you've lost your edge, your killer instinct. Me..I don't want to believe that. Because I want to see the man who took me to my limits at Into The Void.."


I had hoped he could snap out of whatever has possessed him.


"At Into The Void..you brought your best when we fought in a Falls Count Anywhere Match..you came this close to winning it. I want to see that same type of mentality. I want to see the Lachlan Kane that will go into a big match situation and fight until he can no longer stand. Because I am coming to defend my title. And you need to be on your A game. Because if you blow this match...you're not gonna get another chance. You're not gonna be in another title match...so I suggest you bring everything."


I slowly get up...picking up the Roulette Title and placing it on my shoulder.


"And then we have Malachi...the less than successful brother of Lachlan. The man who...hasn't really done much of anything. Lachlan at least has held some championship gold, yet Malachi hasn't held any gold. In fact..he hasn't won a match in months. He even said that he was going to take the roulette wheel and throw it away. That right there says that he doesn't got what it takes to be Roulette Champion. Because you hold this title, you have to take on your opponent in any match the wheel stops on. I've already proved that I can beat him even in the most degrading match possible.."


I really hoped that would be the last lingerie match in my career.


"I guess you could say Malachi...that had to be the most humiliating moment of your career. If you at least won the match and the title, then maybe that would've salvaged it all...but you lost. If you think you hit rock bottom then...oh wait till our match. Because in more ways than one, you WILL hit rock bottom when I knock your ass into the waters down below. In this Ultimate X Match, you're gonna have to do everything in humanly possible to win. So whatever devious plan that you're hatching up, it better be a god damned good one. Because I would not mind handing you another humiliating loss aboard The Sun Princess."


The door suddenly opens. The guard motioning for me to leave.


"...Give me few more minutes.."


Am I nuts? I actually want to stay in here more? I guess the time alone will give me time to think about the epic battle on Sunday. The camera crew pack up everything and leave as I pace back and forth.

 I took the directions that Gideon gave me..and as it turns out it led me to Norwich England. I came to what looked to be a castle...one in ruins of course. There was no roof, not many walls, but the floor remained intact.

Griffin Hawkins: What the fuck?...

I came all this way to some broken rocks and an abandoned castle? He did this just to annoy me. If I wanted to see a tour of ancient ruins I would've gone to a museum. But suddenly..as if something came over me, I noticed a table.

Griffin Hawkins: ....no way..[/color

This couldn't have been the same one. I slowly walk over to the table and it looked like the same one I lied on in my dream as I was about to be sacrificed by a bunch of men in hooded robes.

What was Gideon trying to tell me?

I then got a call on my cell phone. I figured it was my wife Taylor checking on me as I answered.

Griffin Hawkins: Hello?

Marquis Laveaux: Griffin?

Griffin Hawkins: Oh hey Marquis.

Marquis Laveaux: I uh..just wanted to apologize for before. You kinda took me by surprise.

I didn't want to tell him about where I was, I figured it upset him.

Griffin Hawkins: Its okay...just tell me a little something about that place I told you about?

Marquis Laveaux: ...I can't tell you now. Some things should just be left in the past. But I promise when the time is right, you'll know everything.

Griffin Hawkins: ...Okay. I gotta go now, seeya later.

I hang up. I was glad that he was talking to me again, but was a bit worried about what he would tell me. I was shocked to be in the same place I was in my dream..something told me what he knew would be something that would change everything.


--------------------------

~Many Years Ago~

To say my family life was horrible was an understatement. Many would think, oh you got lots of money and a big mansion..you'd think that would make me happy, but it didn't. Reputation was important around the Hawkins family..which is why I knew me getting in a fight in high school and getting suspended was NOT going to go over well..mainly around my Dad. He would deal with me when he got home. I didn't want to stick around..so I went to Joe's Diner. It was starting to get late as I started eating my Cheeseburger platter. Soon the door opened and Charles stepped through. He immediately spotted me and came over.

Charles Hawkins: Come on..we're going home.

Griffin Hawkins: I can't do it...I may just move here.

Charles Hawkins: Griff come on..you know you can't stay here forever. You have to deal with Dad sooner or later.

Griffin Hawkins: You didn't hear what he said to me last time. He told me one more screw up and I'm gonna be shipped off to a Military School in Texas.

Charles Hawkins: He's only saying that to scare you into staying out of trouble. He said the same thing to me when I threw that wild party while he and Mom were away on Vacation.

Griffin Hawkins: I just don't feel like facing him...I already got a black eye, a tongue lashing isn't gonna make it any better.

Charles Hawkins: He doesn't even know the whole story..just tell him the truth.

Griffin Hawkins: Like he's gonna listen to me..it's like he's on a whole different planet than ours.

Charles Hawkins: Yeah he can be a bit unreasonable at times, but when he knows the reason behind everything, he'll understand.

Griffin Hawkins: Yeah, and maybe Elephants can fly.

Charles Hawkins: Griffin...you were only standing up for Wendi against that asshole who wouldn't stop bugging her.

Griffin Hawkins: Well she is our sister after all, she'd do the same for me.

Charles Hawkins: This is no different than me sticking up for you when we were little and some bully would try and mess with you. We'll both tell him what happened..he can't get mad at both of us.

Griffin Hawkins: You'll really be with me?

Charles Hawkins: Of course I will. You may bug the hell out of me half the time, but you're still my brother. Now quit hiding out here like a little girl and come home already!

I couldn't help but laugh as I get up and leave with him. My brother was always important to me, no matter what would happen, he'd always have my back.

-----------------------------------


cameras would usually be in a location in the arena, but they go to the wrong side of town. Many people are on the streets sleeping. I show up on the stoop of a burned out building, dressed in my usual leather jacket and black pants. I begin walking down, speaking.


"Many years ago..I had lost everything. Thrown out onto the streets with no one to depend on. My inheritance was a thing of the past..I no longer had a roof over my head, and more importantly, I had no family left. The one thing that did keep me through..was knowing that I had a family member back at home..two in fact. My brother..and my sister. Family has always been important to me. But to others its a lost concept on them. The man I'm speaking of...is Malachi. His sole purpose of joining SCW was so he can make his brother Lachlan Kane's life a living hell. But unfortunately for Dudley Douchebag, things...have not gone well for him..."


Malachi was someone who..wasn't all that bright. Perhaps I could use it to my advantage.


"See Malachi, I'm different than you. Unlike you, I love my brother and I'm willing to go to the ends of the earth for him. You on the other hand are so content on making Lachlan's life miserable. And why? Jealousy perhaps? I mean he at least held some gold and is a fixture on the Climax Control roster. Meanwhile...what have you done really? Nothing. Sure you had some big matches, but have you really made the best of your opportunities?"


A small chuckle escapes my mouth.


"Another reason I'm different than you, I don't squander my opportunities. I worked for an opportunity at the Internet Title and I went out and won it. I made a mission to become Roulette Champion...and I succeeded. You on the other hand had become so content with trying to ruin your brother, you didn't focus on your own career. You got knocked the fuck out by Fenris...you screamed like a baby when Senor Vinnie locked on the Rings of Mariachi...and now you find yourself in the hunt for the Roulette Title. You want to try and wash away the embarrassing few months by taking my gold? I welcome you to try."


Stepping down the stairs, I continue.


"At Summer XXXtreme, you will be the one of many in the X-Division Rules Match for this very title. Ironically....I faced your brother at the last Supercard and he had eyes on the very same belt. But he was smart...he has brains. You on the other hand Malachi are dumb as a stump and twice as ugly. You're already on twitter claiming that you are gonna do what Lachlan couldn't do and take his title just so you can rub it in his face. That's your first mistake. You're claiming victory before the match even takes place..and second, you're too focused on sticking it to your brother that you're taking me very lightly.."


I kind of wished I was facing Lachlan instead.


"See, unlike you..Lachlan is humble. He realizes that he's not the biggest dog in the yard, but didn't stop him from bringing the fight to me and nearly leaving with my gold. But you, you obviously haven't paid attention to me in the last few months. Because if you did, you'd know that for the last while, I've been turning back every challenger that stepped up and thought they could take me out. You may not be the first, but you will be the next to become just another casualty of The Jukebox Hero."


I look up at the night sky, kind of enjoying myself out here.


"Let's say you actually do beat me and end up taking the title. Then what? You end up retaining at Summer XXXtreme? Very unlikely. Because the last time you were in a Fatal Four Way Match, you lost. You were beaten by of all people...Teddy Warren. So if you don't get it Sunday...you'll definitely get it at the Supercard. But make no mistake, I am not overlooking you by one stretch of the imagination. You think that you're gonna show up your brother by beating me? I don't think so. On Climax Control, you two will share the same fate as I leave with the gold. The luck of the Irish won't be on your side..because come Sunday...you're gonna get rocked."


I smile and walk away as the camera crew packs everything in.

  It had been years since I've spoken to Marquis face to face. It took me forever to track him down, but after asking around, I found where he was living and arranged a meeting with him at his mansion. As we sat in his huge living room where it felt bigger than my own, he poured me some tea.

Griffin Hawkins: Thanks...

Marquis Laveaux: Don't mention it...so what is this group you found out about?

I gave a sip of my tea before taking a deep breath.

Griffin Hawkins: The Order of the Moon.

I then notice the expression on his face slowly change to concern.

Marquis Laveaux: And what do you know about this coven?..

Griffin Hawkins: I know they are a group that has done so many unspeakable acts, they are known as one of the most notorious cults in history.

Marquis Laveaux: Well..you're not wrong. They terrorized a big part of Europe in the old days. People were afraid to leave their homes.

Griffin Hawkins: Did you and Gideon know them?

Marquis Laveaux: Yes...we have some...unfinished business with them. They've been after us for a while now.

Griffin Hawkins: What did you do?...

Marquis Laveaux: I'd rather not say..but why the sudden interest in it?

Here it comes...

Griffin Hawkins: ...lately I've been having dreams. Dreams of being there in those times, nearly sacrificed..and I saw you and Gideon there..looking down at me.

For a minute he stays silent as he looks at the fireplace.

Marquis Laveaux: ...I think you should go.

Griffin Hawkins: What? But I...

He raises his voice, turning to me in anger.

Marquis Laveaux: I said go! If you value your life, you'll stay as far away from me as you possibly can.

That sounded like a threat to me..I didn't know what I did to set him off, but I slowly got up and left the living room, leaving through the main entrance. I was hoping I'd get answers, but all I proceeded to do was make Marquis angry...now where am I going to find the truth?

-----------------------------------------------

I still didn't know much about Lachlan Kane, it was hard to find previous matches of him outside SCW. I had to go behind enemy lines and get the info. And so I called up Charles and asked him if he could help me out and he came up with an idea...visit the SCW offices. Course they wouldn't allow files to members of the roster, so we had to break in.

11:00 PM

Crazy as it sounds, this is the first time I had to break into an office. We came through using the old credit card through the door trick, dressed all in black. Course my outfit wasn't exactly stealthy as it was a Scuba Diving suit while Charles was dressed all in black. He moved around his flashlight looking for the file room, but I managed to bump into him. He whispered low enough so I can hear.

Charles Hawkins: Watch where you're going!

Griffin Hawkins: Sorry...

Charles Hawkins: ...tell me why you're wearing that diving suit..

Griffin Hawkins: Because if I wore my chicken suit..I'd look stupid! Duh...

It sounded logical to me..as he moved on I walked carefully...as carefully as I can with flippers that is. Good thing I didn't bring my spear gun...he looked around for the offices until he found one that had the words "File Room" on the door. I turn my flashlight on and look around the office. As he is looking through the files I begin making shadow puppets.

Griffin Hawkins: Check it out dude! I made a bunny! Now I'm making a duck with one wing!

Charles Hawkins: Will you quit goofing off?! We gotta find the information needed on Lachlan Kane.

Griffin Hawkins: I won't get in trouble for this will I?

Charles Hawkins: You work for SCW, they can't really do much for you.

He looks through the files and finds something interesting.

Charles Hawkins: Wow..its your High School book report on The Titanic..

It reads "Grade F, is this a Joke?"

Griffin Hawkins: How the hell did they get that?!

Before I can get it back he started reading it and laughing.

Charles Hawkins: Leonardo Dicaprio is a great actor...

Griffin Hawkins: Can we PLEASE just find the damn file?!

As he is looking around I can't help but wonder if I'm doing the right thing here..this does kind of feel like I'm breaking some kind of rule.

Charles Hawkins: I got it!

I read through it, looking over the past companies he was in, realizing in a way he was just like me.

Griffin Hawkins: Put it back..I don't need it.

Charles Hawkins: What?...

Griffin Hawkins: I'll beat him my own way...

He put them back in the drawer as we make our way out, of course before leaving I take a handful of candy from the dish...knowing that i'm gonna need it.

-------------------------------------------------

I couldn't get the camera crew to show up this late at night..luckily Charles had his camera handy as he decided to record my shoot for the big match.


"Okay...we learned a lot of things tonight. It's very hard to break into an office..Christian Underwood has a lot of...interesting things in his office. And Lachlan Kane seems to have made quite the name for himself in the last few years of his career. He has quite a tour of duty in various companies all over the globe and has not even skipped a beat here in SCW. That is the kind of opponent I want to face..not some spoiled entitled douchebag like Jack Asher. When he defeated him for the number one contendership...that actually made me happy."


I smile to Charles' camera.


"Why? Because I don't want to defend my title against someone who thinks he should be handed the keys to the kingdom just because he won a few matches. If anyone knows me, they know that I am a guy who puts it on the line against top level competition. The first that comes to mind, is Lachlan Kane. This is a man who has overcome so much in his life just to get to this point in time at SCW, headlining it on the biggest stage of all. You're a hell of an athlete Kane, and I respect you for all you've done, but a battle between us is coming, and I gotta do what I gotta do."


I begin to walk across the sidewalk as Charles follows me.


"Lachlan I've seen a lot about you..and out of respect, I won't share your personal info on what you've been through out in the open..I actually skipped past that part anyway, I don't need to know that. Instead I'd rather focus on the companies you've competed in..not just SCW, but many other companies from all over the world. Everywhere you've gone, you've managed to leave your mark. You don't care if you're the biggest dog in the yard, you just go in and fight. In a lot of ways, you're like me. That's why I think this match between us is gonna be a clash that people will be telling their grandkids about. Two prime young athletes fighting for the second most important title in our industry."


I know somewhere, Lachlan was watching..even if it was late at night.


"Words cannot express how much I respect you Lachlan. You certainly are no stranger to gold, having won the tag titles with Sierra Williams...but that's not enough for you. I get that. When I was known as the final Internet Wrestling Champion...that wasn't good enough for me either. You want more...you'd rather go out and show the world what you can do instead of wasting everyone's time talking about how great you are like many others have in the past. But as much as I want to see you succeed in your quest for gold...it can't be mine. I beat Travis Levitt for the right to become champion, and I beat him again to prove that it was no fluke. I worked hard to get this belt, and I'll be damned if I lose it."


It sounded cocky, but I couldn't just say that I would give up the gold to him.


"Unlike your douchebag little brother, I see the future when I look at you. I see a guy who'll one day climb to the top of SCW and make his mark as one of the best in the company. But what better way to prove it...by going up against someone who's remained a constant in Sin City for quite a while. Now, no one knows who's gonna win this, not because its decided on the wheel, but because its down to two hungry lions who want nothing but to take their rightful place on top of the food chain. To do that, one of us has to win..and the other has to lose. Into The Void...we're gonna go out and leave everything in that ring."


I look to the night sky, knowing I'm in for a serious fight.


"If you indeed do beat me Lachlan, I'm man enough to get up and shake your hand and tell you that you are on this night the better man. And I believe someone like you would do the same thing if you were the one to lose this match as well. But I don't want to jump ahead..because neither of us know who will win this. But the one thing I know what will happen is that I will give you every last inch of me in there, and I will do whatever it takes to make sure I leave Into The Void STILL the Roulette Champion...seeya out there."


Charles turns off the camera as we head back to the car, driving away.

  I couldn't believe my luck, not only did I defeat Kale and end his undefeated streak, but I get to face Austin James Mercer..in a non title match of course. I can't afford to lose this match as it's my first one against the Champion himself. For the last hour and a half, I sat in the arena watching Austin's matches. I sit, watching him slam down his opponent with a Spinebuster. Charles was watching alongside me as he was making short work of him.

Charles Hawkins: Wow, that's intense.

Griffin Hawkins: He's gotta be if he's Champion, he isn't lazy after all.

We continue to watch his match with Ty West, he manages to duck him and connects with a Neckbreaker.

Charles Hawkins: There! That right there! That's where you gotta get him. Someone as big and bad as him is gonna make a mistake and that's where you gotta capitalize.

Griffin Hawkins: It's gonna take a while for him to slip up, then I gotta pick my spot.

We watched for a while, but the more I watched, some doubt started to creep into my head.

Griffin Hawkins: Can I..step out for a sec?...

Charles Hawkins: Uh...sure.

I got up out of the chair and left the room. I paced back and forth in the hallway just thinking on everything that's going on. One week i'm defending the title, the next I am facing the world heavyweight champion. I then feel Charles come up behind me.

Charles Hawkins: You alright?...

Griffin Hawkins: This is all happening so fast man. I made my return months ago, and then the next month I win the Roulette Title..and then I get to face the World Champion.

Charles Hawkins: And that's a good thing..it didn't take you long to reach the top.

Griffin Hawkins: But what if it's all for nothing? If I lose..then lose the title, then what?

Charles Hawkins: If you lose..then at least you lose with no excuses. You won't bet letting anyone down..not me, not the family.

There was so much pressure on me, this was probably my biggest match yet since I've returned.

Griffin Hawkins: So you really think I can beat him?

Charles Hawkins: I know you can beat him..but not unless you study.

I followed him back to the locker room to watch more matches. I hated when doubt crept into my mind..it made me insecure. I couldn't afford to lose this match, I had to win.


-------------------------------------------------

I figured eventually, my dream would go away...but it actually started to become more vivid from here. As I began to dream..I woke up once again...only this time I wasn't in some far away castle, I was actually in my room. The torches on the wall gave me the feeling that I was still back in the old times...as I lay in my small bed, I heard something crawl up through the window. It looked to be a man in a white shirt and brown hair in a pony tail. The other that followed was a larger man with shoulder length long hair and a similar shirt. I heard the shorter one with the ponytail whisper.

Gideon Blackwell: I swear, you're gonna get us caught!

Marquis Laveaux: Will you relax? No one's gonna know we're here.

The two of them sneak over to me, looking down at me. I recognize one of them as Marquis..the man who took me in years ago..but his accent seemed to be different.

Gideon Blackwell: So this is the little fleshling that the order tried to sacrifice...

Marquis Laveaux: Yeah..don't see the big deal about him actually..

Gideon Blackwell: The little thing is sickeningly adorable..you know, we could easily take this little thing for ourselves for a King's ransom...we'd have so much money..

Marquis Laveaux: And what are you going to do with the king's money Gideon? You're dead..we're both dead. Not much a vampire could do with endless riches.

Gideon Blackwell: Just a thought...plus I'd love to see that bloody tyrant brought to his knees like a wee child when he finds out we have his brat.

They look down at me...I just lie there wondering what they got planned for me.

Marquis Laveaux: Look at him...he has no idea what's to....wait, what is this?..

I'm not sure what set him off, but as he leans closer, he takes a step back.

Marquis Laveaux: ....he has the mark.

Gideon Blackwell: We must end him right now!

Marquis Laveaux: No time..we must leave right away!

What the hell was that about? Whatever they saw on me caused them to leave..

"Griffin? Griffin?"

I wake up back on the couch of my locker room. I saw Charles shaking me.

Charles Hawkins: You fell asleep man..you okay?

Griffin Hawkins: Uh..yeah..I am.

Charles Hawkins: Okay then. We'll watch a few more matches and then we'll get out of here.

I wanted to focus on the match, but something was off about that dream..I knew if I wanted answers I had to ask Marquis. Course, I haven't spoken to him in over a decade, a reunion was long overdue.

------------------------------------------

The cameras open in the arena where I am watching the Fatal Four Way for the World Heavyweight Title on the TV Monitor, the way I am practically directing traffic. I then use the remote, stopping the match.


"What a difference four months makes...at Blaze of Glory, I was the special referee in the fatal four way between Fenris, Alex Jones, Jake Raab and Travis Levitt while Austin James Mercer fought Vanu Naufu It was Fenris who retained on this night while Austin won his match..but look at what's happened since then. Me and Austin are now Champions. He holds the World Heavyweight Title..and I hold the Roulette Title. We both knew that we would cross paths sooner or later, title on the line or not. Now..it seems as if all the stars have aligned within the universe..and two of the top dogs of SCW are finally..for the first time ever..clash in a champion v.s champion match in what could very well be the biggest main event in Climax history."


I kick my feet onto the table.


"For the last few weeks..when people mention me, they threw names around like...legend. If I can be honest, I don't consider myself a legend. Sure, many consider me one of the greatest fighters of all time, but I don't know about being a legend. If anything, I'm a street kid who managed to fight for what he believes in, worked for what he wants just to get to where he is today..and in that time I learned not to be clouded by too many people giving me compliments. I'd allow it to go to my head and become complacent...which I hope Austin hasn't done.."


I look straight at the camera, knowing he is watching.


"You are the man at the top of the mountain Austin, and I respect you for where you brought yourself. That's why I am hoping that you don't follow the past champions who allowed success to go to their heads..because in an instant, its gone. Every time Jake Raab somehow manages to get a victory..he gets cocky and slips up. But you are no Jake Raab, and I'm not going in there facing some scrub who manages to get lucky and pull off a fluke win here or there, I'm coming to fight a guy who's worked hard to get where he is..and even though the title isn't on the line..I am more than pumped to test my strength against The Prodigal Son."


I then play his match against Fenris for the title on  Climax Control, studying everything about him.


"Austin..you and me are what the SCW locker room strives to be...brave, battle tested, not afraid to back down from any man. I feel when I look at you, I am looking into a mirror. I see a man who has fought hard to get where he is today. I watched you become the Honor Wrestling Champion...I said to myself, god damn, I gotta fight this guy someday! And that day is coming soon. A match where two champions who have solidified their spot as the elite of SCW will clash for the first time in history"


I paused the match, not wanting to miss anything.


"I do indeed respect you Austin. I consider you a friend..like a brother. I know how much that belt means to you..and you know how hungry I am to one day take your title and become the face of SCW. Can I beat you? I don't know. Can you beat me? Who knows. Something has to give. See, what you hold around your shoulder is the reason I came back to SCW. I've already been Internet Champion, and I am currently the Roulette Champion. The World Heavyweight Title is the last piece of the puzzle. The belt won't be on the line...but a victory over you would definitely put me in conversation for a title shot."


I unpause the match as I continue.


"When I got back here months ago...there was doubt. People doubted me. Travis Levitt said I was a has been, yesterday's news. Kendron Williams thought I'd be just another victim for him to sacrifice. There's always gonna be people doubting me, there's probably some doubting me now...but I have a history of turning doubters into believers. I make the impossible happen. Right now many would say beating you would be impossible...and it may be. But in a fight like this....I'll do what I can to do what many say is impossible, and defeat you. I wish you luck on Sunday Austin..and may the best champion win."


I go back to watching the match as the camera crew leave the room.

 It was good to be back home in the states..course when word got out that I had to go back to Vegas for my title match, my brother just had to come with me and Geoff. Geoff was my image consultant after all so I understood him being with me for this event..but my brother just had to tag along because he loves Vegas. We rode in the car under the bright lights of the various buildings.

Charles Hawkins: I can't believe we're here! Viva Las Vegas!

Griffin Hawkins: Jeez man, you're like a little kid...

Charles Hawkins: How can you not be excited to be in Sin City?

Griffin Hawkins: Probably because I've been here...many times...

Charles Hawkins: You're crazy fro not taking advantage of all the places here...the slots, the strip clubs, it's like an adult version of Candyland!

Geoff Matthens: If you can just relax for a minute, you need to remember why we're really here. Well..why you're here. Griffin has a title rematch and we can't let anything distract us.

Griffin Hawkins: Damn right...we're gonna find a gym, we're gonna train and I'm gonna be ready for the match.

Charles Hawkins: Work Work Work...is that all you care about Griff? You used to be fun! When was the last time you took time out to yourself to relax?

Griffin Hawkins: Look, after I win, we'll have plenty of time to hit the slots. For now, it's time to focus.

Course in looking for a gym, it got pretty crowded. The traffic was backed up for a quite a way.
Before I could say anything..we both were interrupted by the sound of a door slamming shut. We both looked to where Charles was originally sitting..only to see he was no longer there.

Griffin Hawkins: ....Ah damn it....

Chances are he made off into the Casino. This was gonna be a long night...

-----------------------------------------------

As soon as we got inside, I noticed the whole place lit up like it's the fourth of July. I looked around for Charles, but I couldn't find him.

Griffin Hawkins: He's gotta be here somewhere..

Geoff Matthens: He's here, just follow the sounds of chips being laid down..or quarters going into slot machines....how many games does he play anyway?

Griffin Hawkins: Just about all of them..dude's an equal opportunity gambler.

Geoff Matthens: Christ..it's gonna be harder to find than a needle in a haystack. Let's just keep our eyes open.

Griffin Hawkins: Man..this blows. I just wanted to go to a gym and train..and now I gotta babysit my brother and keep him from going off the rails. At this rate, I'm gonna lose the title because I came unprepared.

Geoff Matthens: Unprepared? You've already beaten him for the title..I'd say you got the advantage..you studied him well and you won, what is it you're worried about?

Griffin Hawkins: You don't get it...at this point he is desperate. He's been doing a lot of talking about how he represents that belt and whatnot..and now that he's lost it..he's willing to do everything to get it back.

Geoff Matthens: Well you don't have to go to the gym to prepare..look around you, you can prepare here.

Griffin Hawkins: I fail to figure out how a game of blackjack has to do with the match at hand...

Geoff Matthens: Look, I may not have been in the ring like you have, but even I know this is a mental game. Right now you got the mental advantage..but you can't allow it
to make you too over confident.

He motions to a man playing a game of roulette.

Geoff Matthens: See that guy there? There's one like that in every casino. They don't quit while they're ahead. Look at all the money he has.

Griffin Hawkins: But Lady Luck could be on his side.

Geoff Matthens: Just watch...

We look on as the man tells him the number is...18. He lost. We watch as he dejectedly walks away.

Geoff Matthens: See? At any given moment, your luck could run out. Sure, you're champion now, but if you're not careful, you could lose it back to Travis just as quick as you won it

We make our way over to the slot machines.

Geoff Matthens: Your favorite and mine..the slots. Once you win some..you can't stop and you're determined to play more, even if you lose.

We see the woman put the Quarter in....Jackpot, she wins! The sirens go off as people are cheering her on.

Griffin Hawkins: She...won?

Geoff Matthens: She won because she took a chance..just like you did against Levitt. No matter what happens, keep fighting until you're the last man standing.

We then hear the sounds of Charles..over at the craps table, shaking the dice.

Charles Hawkins: Come on..baby needs a new pair of shoes!

We both grab him.

Griffin Hawkins: Okay Diamond Joe, it's time for us to get out of here.

Charles Hawkins: What?! Come on, I'm on a roll!

We drag him away as he is begging us to let him stay and play. While he was gambling with his money, I was gambling with something much bigger.

------------------------------------------------

The cameras open up in everyone's favorite place...the casino. Everyone is playing games like Blackjack, hitting the slots, some playing Craps and Five Card Stud. I enter the room dressed in a long black sleeve shirt and matching dress pants. The Roulette Title is around my shoulder as I look around, dark sunglasses covering my eyes as I make my way through this busy room.


"Ah...Las Vegas...Sin City. The Entertainment Capital of the World. Many come here to try their chances. Some are successful...and others fail and go home empty handed. Last time I wrestled here, I was victorious..and now I come home with some gold around my shoulder. But some are coming into the City of Lights with nothing, yet they are willing to bet it all. Travis Levitt..the man I defeated for this title decided to exercise his rematch clause already and wants his title back. I'm a fighting champion..so I say..step on up to the table."


I begin to walk past the craps table as many are rolling dice.


"Travis..heh...last time we spoke, you said that I was an old relic..and that the business has passed me by. Well, how does it feel to lose to an alleged old relic? You said that I don't got what it takes to reach the next level and grab the brass ring. The belt I carry right now says otherwise. This Roulette Title is proof that I am still the fastest gun in the west..and if you need more proof, need I remind you who was it that tapped out in the middle of the ring when I slapped on Lucky 13? It was you."


If I knew anything, Travis was more desperate than ever.


"It seems that since you've lost the title Travis...nobody had really heard from you. Not even on social media..just radio silence. No interviews, no tweets. I even congratulated you for giving me the match of my life...but no replies. Why is that? I don't think you were embarrassed..you're not the type that refuses to show his face after one loss. But the question is...will you be there? Because I will be there."


I go over to the slot machines where a woman is putting her quarters in.


"When I came back to this company months ago...I bet everything on my comeback. I said from the beginning that I was coming back to pick up where I left off..and winning this Roulette Belt was further proof of that. I told you before Travis that this was just business..not personal. You stood in my way of reaching the top, and I had to do everything in my power to move past you and further stake my claim as the greatest athlete in Sin City Wrestling history. And now...you are the one chasing me. Are you bad enough to take what's mine? Come and prove it."


I readjust the belt on my shoulder as I walk towards the other games.


"Wanna know the most interesting part Travis? This could be any kind of match. That's the best part of this very belt..you never know in what kind of match we'll face off in. At London Brawling II we fought in a Submission Match where I made you tap out. Who's to say we won't get the same match? Or who knows...we may get a ladder match, a last man standing match, a steel cage match...or a street fight. Last time I was here in Vegas, I was kicking Steve Ramone's ass all over Sin City..who knows, we may get a sequel of that this Sunday! The possibilities are endless Travis. I suggest you be ready. Because if you blow this rematch, you'll have to go to the back of line while the next contender takes your spot."


I walk away from the table and come to what looks to be people playing Poker.


"Ah Poker..a game where you have to keep your wits about you. If you're not gonna play with a full deck, your chances of winning aren't worth Jack. See Travis, at London Brawling II, I was dealt a good hand...a winning hand. Could say it was a Royal Flush. And now you're back again...willing to bet the house on this important match. If you lose again...you'll leave Vegas a broken and beaten man. If you win, you'll right the wrong at the last event as a two time Roulette Champion. But the competitor in me just won't allow that to happen Travis. Because I won this title fair and square, and I will do anything to keep it. Don't consider it personal..but I have no alternative but to beat the holy fucking fuck out of you."


As expected, the poor guy loses. I continue on as I walk away from him.


"You were right about one thing Travis. The both of us got a huge chip on our shoulder, me especially. See, last time I was here, I had aspirations of becoming Sin City Wrestling World Heavyweight Champion..but as fate would have it, the company folded, dashing my dreams against the rocks. Now that I am back, I am resuming my mission to make it to the top of Sin City..and in my fourth match in the company, I captured my second title ever. You could say I am on a tear..."


I look closely at the camera.


"But in a city like this..everything can change. You can go from the biggest winner...to the biggest loser. You have a chance to win it all. Time will tell whether you win big...or crap out. Either way...the City of Sin...is gonna get rocked."


I walk away from the shot as the camera crew wrap things up.

 I knew I had to prepare for Travis Levitt, and ordinary training like hitting the gym was not going to cut it. I had to go back to basics. I called up my brother and told him we need to get some old school training if I'm gonna beat this guy. We were going straight home to Canada. Course, my image consultant Geoff Matthens got wind of this, advising against it..but I managed to convince him to come with us. We arrive at the airport ready for our journey home. We walk through the airport with our bags packed.

Griffin Hawkins: Our flight should be arriving should be arriving soon...

Charles Hawkins: Oh yeah...I can't wait to get home.

Geoff Matthens: Do we REALLY have to go all the way to Canada? Seriously...we can just go to the local gym. You know..lift some weights, hit the heavy bags. Do we really have to go all the way out of the country just for training?

Griffin Hawkins: Jesus man...we're not even out of country and you're already whining..

Geoff Matthens: I just don't understand this at all, it's spring time and now its gonna be winter all over again the minute we land in the great white north.

Charles Hawkins: Where's your sense of adventure? You can't stay in your home country for the rest of your life.

Geoff Matthens: I just think it's strange that we gotta go clear across the country just for training against some wrestler.

Griffin Hawkins: Dude..he is NOT some wrestler, this guy is on top of his game, I've been watching him since I got back and he isn't a dude to overlook. So we are going back home to prepare the only way we know how...in the mountains.

Geoff Matthens: The Mountains?...

Griffin Hawkins: That's right, we're going to Calgary. Our parents have an old cabin in the mountains they haven't used in years. In old times, people trained in the Mountains for battle..this seems like the right time for us. Nothing but the cold and the snow against our skin.

Charles Hawkins: I can practically smell the hickory wood now.

Geoff Matthens: You guys are just plain nuts. This is the first..and last time I go with you up in that below zero snow pit.

Griffin Hawkins: Trust me bro..it'll be worth it when I leave the UK with the Roulette title.

Our plane arrived and we boarded. As I sat by the window, all I could think of what was to come at London Brawling 2, would I be able to combat the skills of Travis Levitt? Perhaps this training would answer all the questions.

----------------------------------------------------

After we arrived in Calgary, first thing we did was ride up to the mountains where the Cabin was. It was time to prepare in the old style. It started with being chased by the car driven by Geoff...it would've been okay if I didn't have rocks thrown at me by Charles.

Griffin Hawkins: Ow! What the hell man?!

Charles Hawkins: Don't stop, keep running!

Griffin Hawkins: How is this gonna help me against Travis!?

Charles Hawkins: You gotta build up speed!

Griffin Hawkins: He's not gonna throw rocks at me!

Charles Hawkins: The man is unpredictable..you don't know that!

He continues to throw rocks at me while I am running, one hits me right in the shoulder.

Griffin Hawkins: How many rocks do you have in there?!

Charles Hawkins: Less talking, more running!

After that came another exercise..carrying a log through the snow. Course, I had it draped over my shoulder as the snow got deeper and deeper up the hill. Charles was by the car with Geoff shouting words of encouragement.

Charles Hawkins: Come on! How bad you want this?!

Griffin Hawkins: Real bad!

Charles Hawkins: Good! Just pretend its Levitt over your shoulder! Here's a little something to motivate you.

He reaches in the car, pulling out a boombox, he puts in a CD...the sounds of Hearts on Fire begin ringing out as I proceed through with the training. Throughout the day, I train hard, nothing but Travis Levitt on my mind. I proceed to jump rope, lift heavy rocks in a net, lift a wheel barrel with Geoff and Charles in it, even running faster than before as I am being chased by Charles throwing rocks at me. I then avoid going through the path and see the mountain before me....course only a nutjob would climb a mountain, so instead I climbed a steep hill that was pretty high with all the snow. I think of all the weeks of wanting this title match, my return, and my future in SCW. I climbed the hill, looking at the great valley beyond me, only had one thought.

Griffin Hawkins: TRAVIS!!.....TRAVIS!!

I was ready....the biggest fight was upon us...Travis had to go down for the count.

---------------------------------------------------

Cameras come to the inside of the cabin...for some reason "Christmas Time is Near" by The Chipmunks is playing on the radio...despite it being April. I sit on the couch as the flames in the fireplace flickers, kicking my feet on the couch.


"Good evening out there to all those watching at home..and to all the ships at sea. Sorry I'm not out there in England just yet...I figured it's time I return home. It's time that I go back to basics. See...I am not facing some run of the mill opponent this week...I am facing an unorthodox athlete, a man who in the ring has no equal...Travis Levitt. I have been training all day to prepare for the biggest match I've had since I returned to Sin City wrestling..oh yes. Live from London England..first time ever, you got The Phoenix..against The Jukebox Hero..one on one, one fall to the finish..only one walks out the Roulette Champion."


Kicking back on the couch, I begin to remember some words he said before.


"Some weeks ago...you said my chances of beating you for that title is as good as my chances of ever getting a Platinum album. Heh..you know, some people never learn. And I guess the Roulette Champion doesn't learn either. Confidence is definitely key...something you're not lacking of course. But there is a fine line between confidence and cockiness. Because I've had champions of the past say the same things you're saying now, saying that I can never beat them for the title. Some have paid the price for that underestimation, some champions who underestimated me are no longer part of SCW. Now I'm not saying that you are just like him...but I am warning you NOT to follow his example. You know about my history..how I have a habit of collecting titles like a little kid collecting baseball cards, if you underestimate me...you'll have no choice but to go down in history alongside champions i've laid to rest."


grabbing myself a Mountain Dew off the table, I take a small sip from it before continuing.


"See, we may seem different on the surface, but we got more alike than people realize. Both of us left our home at a young age to go out and do what we were born to do...both had to bust our asses in bingo halls, armories and high school gyms..both of us having problems with addiction..both of us captured a litany of titles..but the one glaring similarity is that we both want to be recognized as the best in the world today. There is only room for one at the top..some say its you, some say it's me. There is a lot of dispute over which one of us will lead SCW into 2020...the only way it can be settled is when we fight at London Brawling 2."


I slowly get off the couch, going out to the window, looking at the night sky.


"One thing I admire about you Travis, you want to hold that title and defend it..you're not like other champions of the past who'd duck serious contenders and only defend it against curtain jerkers who don't even equal a third of your talent..you want to fight all. Thing is..I have the same mentality. A lot of great athletes held that title, Goth, Equinox, Ty West, Kristopher Ryans and many more. And now, I want to add my name among that list. While you are a great champion...I have to do it at your expense, do you want to know why?"


I slowly turn to look at the camera.


"Every time people talk about me, all I am known for is the undefeated..last ever Internet Champion. While it is an honor to be the man who retired a prestigious belt such as that, I want to be known for more than that. I want more gold on my accolades. I did not come here to coast on my past accomplishments, I want to add more to my SCW resume. When I wanted the Internet Title, I went out and took it. And now, I want the Roulette Title and I am looking to take it from you."


I slowly walk back towards the couch.


"Things didn't exactly go well for you in the Blast from the Past tourney...but you haven't forgotten that you are the Roulette Champion. You made sure to remember it when you were on commentary. When you watched me make Anthrax tap out in the middle of the ring...did it scare you? Did it cross your mind that you could be looking at your future? Could that be why after the match, you got up and you raised your belt in the air as if to say..you want it? come and get it. Perhaps maybe I found a chink in your armor. It's obvious you see me as a threat to your reign, otherwise you wouldn't be out there. Truth is..I AM a threat to your reign."


I smile and go towards the door.


"And so..the stage is set...London England, you and me for all the gold. I came back to SCW to pick up where I left off, at London Brawling...The Phoenix is gonna get rocked."

I walk out of the cabin, shutting the door.