Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 29 de enero al 5 de febrero de 2023

My career has been a lot like a road trip. Sometimes I take a detour. Adjust the speed. Change my destination. Ask for directions. Take rest stops along the way. I was here for all of them. Yet no matter how bad the road and accommodations got, I reminded myself that sometimes it's the journey that teaches you a lot about your destination.

This is my tenth year in Sin City Wrestling. Spending a decade in one company, while extremely rare, is an impressive feat, and now I’ve joined that exclusive club alongside Jessie Salco and Roxi Johnson. Something to be proud of.

I’ve had consistency of success in my career, and that can’t be argued. To see where I am now and what I've been through, anyone in my shoes would have thrown in the towel and quit the next day. But this five foot seven, 125-pound Latina has come a long way. If you asked anybody in that locker room, anybody who have stepped foot in the six-sided ring and laced up a pair of boots, that my career would last this long, they would probably call you crazy. Most would still. I must be crazy too thinking that I somehow could keep up with an ever-changing roster that gets more talented by the day.

But let gets this back to where it should be.

There is so much to say about Roxi Johnson in defense of her position as the SCW’s GOAT. The four world championships, the overall nine championships to her career, the deserved Hall of Fame induction, her many Year-End Awards wins, the longevity of her career, the leader in career wins, main event wins, overall main events matches, the chance of being the first wrestler reaching 100 wins, the amazing and almost uncanny ability to win and win and win.

Alicia Lukas is SCW. That’s according to the mysterious intern behind SCW’s Twitter account. But to be fair, it’s been awhile since we heard those lofty words - something along the lines of four years, give or take a few leap years - after the fact that our Sassy Southern Belle wrestled only two matches just four months into her debut at the time. Once upon a time, Alicia was the hood ornament of the Bombshells Division, and it really didn’t take long for that to happen. Outside of the hiccup of losing the Bombshell Championship to a certain Bombshell (see: Zdunich, Seleana), she still managed to become a three-time champion quicker than either me or Roxi. 19 months. She was the first Bombshell to win Wrestler of the Year and Woman of the Year and of only two woman to ever pull that feat off. If that doesn’t make her a big deal, then I don’t know what will.

But, see, history has a way of forgetting as much as happening and the past tense can be brutal to those who crave history. This is the boat that Roxi and Alicia are both on. And to a certain extent, yours truly. With names like Amber Ryan and Masque de Lune staking their claim in the division in the last year or so, their rise has also slightly, slowly, but inevitably help many to remember Alicia, Roxi, and me as something that was, not something that is.

As much as people want to put Alicia and Roxi on some kind of pedestal, my legacy will last in ways their greatness won’t. Despite our respective accomplishments in Sin City Wrestling, no matter how many matches I’ve lost, no matter how many times I’ve failed, the
debate of who is the most accomplished woman in the company isn’t much of a debate at all.

I’ve won the present just as much as the future.

Well, the immediate future begins Sunday. Christian Underwood, in all his infinite wisdom, had decided to put Alicia, Roxi, and I in a triple threat where the winner gets Amber Ryan at Blaze of Glory. Either one of us can pose a threat to Amber on her worst day. But we all know we’re going to have to be on our best day to wrestle the title from her grip. There’s a reason why she had an iron grip on the Bombshell Championship for almost a year.

That said, the history between Alicia, Roxi, and I runs deep. There’s not going to be some magic moment at which we’re sitting around a campfire toasting marshmallows, singing 'Kumbaya'. I don’t like them, they don’t like me, and Alicia and Roxi don’t like one each other. I’m almost sure we won’t be exchanging Christmas cards this year.

I haven’t forgotten that I beat Alicia last year. It was a feel good moment for me in a year that had few good moments aside from taking my pen and rewriting my name in the record books. I haven’t forgotten the last time Roxi and I were part of a triple threat match either. Wasn’t my night, but Roxi retained the Bombshell Championship. Kudos to her.

Alicia is just rearing to go, and that’s great, because if she wanted to fight, hey, I have no problem throwing down. Roxi wants another go at Amber, but I just might be the one to play spoiler. I might still be coming off my loss at Inception, but I'll be more then happy to show Alicia and Roxi why underestimating me will be their biggest mistake. Anyone should know better than to count me out of any match. I'm a different breed of opponent and no matter the outcome, I don't get ready, I stay ready.

Alicia thinks I’m not worthy of being in this match, and that’s okay, SCW knows I'm championship material. You don't win championships in each of your first nine years in the company much less become the most decorated wrestler in the company if you weren't good enough.

I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and gosh darn it, people like me! And if you hate me, well, I rather be hated for who I am than who I'm not. What separates me from the pack: I am everything they’re not and everything they wish they could be.

Come Sunday, if I win...WHEN I win, I get a date with the Red Hurricane herself. I may not be the favorite, but I have enough drive to make it a fight with anyone. I'm going to try my damndest to win this match. I'm going to be the number-one contender. Because I AM the contender.

Not a threat, not an promise. Just a matter of fact. Alicia and Roxi wanna prove me wrong?

They got one shot.


“I wish I didn’t get married. The BS from the in-laws, my husband is lazy, my children are failures….”

[When Estelle looks back up, she sees her husband and children all standing there with aplomb.]

.::MERCEDES and FERNANDO::..
WHAT THE HELL, MOM?!

.::ESTELLE::..
Uh, how long have you all been standing there?

.::FERNANDO::..
Long enough to be uncomfortable.

.::ESTELLE::..
Mercedes, can you lower your standards and get a husband?

.::MERCEDES::..
What? But Mom, I don’t have any standards. Kind of like you.

[Estelle shoots her daughter a dirty look.]

.::MERCEDES::..
I don’t understand why anyone gets married. Almost all of my friends are miserable.

.::ESTELLE::..
What are the odds?

.::MERCEDES::..
65 percent. At least that’s the divorce rate in California.

.::ESTELLE::..
Maybe you need new friends.

[While her parents’ visit was unexpected, Mercedes trudges through what was she felt was an interrogation.]

[Fernando gets done feeding a school of guppies in an aquarium. Mercedes watches as the fish gobble up the flakes.]

.::FERNANDO::..
Can I ask you a question?

[Estelle gives her husband an arched eyebrow.]

.::ESTELLE::..
You can ask, sure. Whether you’ll get an answer is another matter.

.::FERNANDO::..
 I’ll take my chances.

[He tilts her head to the side for comic effect.]

.::FERNANDO::..
It’s getting late and there isn’t anything for dinner.

.::ESTELLE::..
Just so you know, UberEats is a thing now…

[She gives a nonchalant shrug.]

.::FERNANDO::..
Sure, but no one cooks like you.

.::MERCEDES::..
 To be fair, mom, your cooking is truly unforgettable

.::ESTELLE::..
Someone’s a little jealous I see.

.::MERCEDES::..
Unforgettable isn’t always a good thing.

.::ESTELLE::..
Mercedes, we visit you at least three times a year. Are you getting enough oxygen here?

[Her parents looks around the apartment as Mercedes kicks the door shut using her boot.]

.::MERCEDES::..
Sorry for the mess. If I had known guest were coming, I would have cleaned up sooner.


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

[REC•]

[The scene opens on Mercedes Vargas with a smug look on her face. The two-time SCW Hall of Famer spends the afternoon feeding wild ducks on the boardwalk of the Santa Monica Pier. Wearing a pair of black-rimmed library glasses, the Argentine seems to enjoy the tranquil nature of her surroundings. She throws what left of the pieces out of a box of Wheat Thins she has in her hand before turning to the camera. The Argentine has her signature clipboard in hand, which she tucks underneath her arm for the moment.]

“Sin City Wrestling, how are you doing? Good? Good.

"You know, as one of the longest-tenured veterans on the roster - and THE most successful might I add - it amazes me that year after year, there’s always a new turnover of talent just waiting to make a name for themselves. In my career, I’ve seen of them all, I’ve more than likely beaten them all. Sometimes they’re only around for a cup of coffee, other times the trash take themselves out. The names may all change, but one thing remains the same…”

[Mercedes points to herself.]

“This woman right here is, was, and always will be the gatekeeper of the Bombshells Division. And, no, Jessie Salco, that’s my full-time job, not yours. Know your place, mamita.”

[Mercedes pauses for a moment to glance at her checklist before she looks back at the camera.]

“Now at Inception and on the first two Climax Control episodes of 2023, we saw a few surprise returns and some fresh new faces making their debuts. Some won, others loss, but just the same they all brought something to the table. How many of these newcomers will still be here in three months, six months, a year from now, is the real test because Sin City Wrestling has a reputation as one of the toughest places around, and for good reason. To survive here, you need a little bit of luck and a whole lot of talent. Those who debuted last year at least got their feet wet.

“Now let’s see how they do at the far end of the pool.”

[Mercedes gives the camera a dismissive wave of her hand, the excitement in her voice remains as she continues.]

“As for me, I’m anxious to get back in the ring after how Inception didn't exactly pan out, especially what was a title match I should have won easy. That said, this Sunday I get to makeup for my defeat with this contendership match against none other than Alicia Lukas and Roxi Johnson - two names who are part of the upper echelon of talent here in SCDub, and with good reason.

"You don't need to tell me how important this match is. Just ask my opponents, they'll tell you. I'm not going to make excuses, because I don't have any, but I’ll give credit where it's due. If I don’t walk out with the win, I guess we're going to find out if either Alicia or Roxi takes advantage of a golden opportunity, or it ends up as a wasted opportunity."

[Mercedes points to herself.]

"You’re probably asking where do I go from here after Inception. The short answer? I'm not "going" anywhere. I'm definitely not getting bent out of shape just because a pay-per-view match didn't go my way. I'm better than that. Think I'm more than proven in this sport and I don't have to prove myself to anybody. My time will come again to contend for the world title. And looking at the roster, I don't think I'll be waiting very long.

"It's an express lane here.

“There’s no better place than here. There’s no better time than now.”

[She offers a nonchalantly shrug.]

“Now, Georgie Robertson is still kinda new, but she has had an okay start to her career. Being the new girl and all, I kinda had second thoughts about how she would do last year. She wasn’t good, she wasn’t bad. She was just okay. Then Inception happened. Georgie beat Roxi Johnson in what should be called an upset, because it is. On any given day, anybody can beat anybody. You know how hard it is to beat Roxi? OK, so it's more than that: Sure, Roxi did get by Krystal Wolfe last week, but the loss at Inception probably rocked her to her core, and while she will no doubt have an excuse ready why she got beat, her track record is better than anyone's during their time in SCW. Not to say I’m easily impressed most of the time, but I have to make an exception.”

[Mercedes brings her hands together for a slow, lifeless showing that was just as cutting.]

“With Alicia and Roxi, while familiarity breeds contempt, that's the least emotion I'm feeling this weekend."

[Mercedes shakes her head while mouthing the word “no.”]

"More like redemption. That's why this match is one where I'll be showing up.”

[Mercedes swipes a hand over her face. The once proud smile she had has transformed into a serious expression. It was time to address the matter of the opponents that stood across her from her in a serious light.]

“That I get to visit an arena I've already been to is a moot point. At Climax Control, I'm reigniting that fire and focusing all my energy because it's about time I get back to the potential I know I have. I'm willing to risk it all. I'm willing to put my cards on the table. I'm willing to do whatever as it takes to take down whoever is in front of me, and I'm not too picky. I know that I'm still a threat. Sunday won't be a lesson, it will be a reminder. At Climax Control, I hope Alicia and Roxi are prepared because I’ve been prepared.

“A woman who knows her worth is a dangerous one... when no one can use you, play you or get over on you, that makes you a threat. I am not a joke, I am not a punchline. I AM A THREAT.

"I may not be headlining the show. I may not be in the main event, I may not be one of the top stars here, yet, but I can promise you that I'm making this match worth the price of admission. It's up to everyone else to try and top it."

[Mercedes tucks her checklist under her arm again, then starts rubbing her hands expectantly.]

"So, Alicia, Roxi, I'll see you Sunday night for Climax Control."

[A pause is met as she starts speaking in Spanish.]

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

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

***Fade***

Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 1 al 7 de enero de 2023

Out with the old, in with the new. That’s kinda how it goes, right? 2022 is a distant memory and now we ring in a new year in Sin City Wrestling. It's a fresh start for everybody. A year of new beginnings, possibilities, opportunities and resolutions.

I want to start the new year off right, and to do that I need to win my first match of the year against Kayla Richards. The one name I never thought I’d have to endure the incredible misfortune of hearing ever again. I had to pinch myself to make sure it was real. Sure enough, Kayla and I will be sharing the spotlight at Inception one week from Sunday.

And, to the surprise of no one, as she is wont to do, Kayla is already looking past me ahead of her upcoming defense. Maybe that’s by design because she was successful against me in her most recent defense. Chances are Kayla isn’t going to lose sleep in the weeks leading up to our match. No, I don't think she will, and why? She’s a Richards. Look at how quick she’s got gold around her waist. Success isn’t usually far behind.

It’s been said that I’ve spent most of my career living on my previous accomplishments, that I live in the past and act as though that somehow entitles me to opportunities, especially with my accomplishments here in SCW. Do you know what separates me from women like Kayla? No, it’s not just brains, incredible talent and the ability to actually tell the difference between fantasy and reality, but it’s the fact that I never just try to get by on my name value alone. I am a two-time world champion, a two-time hall of famer, the only woman to win every championship available to a Bombshell in SCW, the fastest Bombshell to achieve the Bombshell Grand Slam, the only multiple-time Bombshell Triple Crown and Grand Slam winner, and the list goes on and on. Despite these accolades, I never stop going out there to prove myself, to prove my worth, to demonstrate why I have such a massive ego, sometimes to my own detriment.

I don’t just demand respect.

I worked for it.

I deserved it.

I earned it.

Whether I am selling out stadiums or walking into college arenas like I am next week, my competitive drive hasn’t wavered. I work just as hard as I did when I first laced up a pair of boots or walked out to my entrance music. I do what I want, I take what I want, and I sure as hell have earned what I am worth instead of feeling entitled to it.

But that’s all your entire narrative right? Let me explain something. Women like Kayla Richards are rare in SCW in accomplishing what they’ve done or promised to in just their first year, but what happens after that second, third, sixth, tenth year? Nine times out of ten they’re either here long enough for a cup of coffee or fade away in obscurity.

I go out there, do what I have to do, and I benefit from the opportunities when I have accomplished them.

Kayla likes to think she’s owed the world because she won a championship twice and not only thinks she’s above everyone, but that she’s above this company. The world doesn’t work like that and I think it’s about damn time somebody made this abundantly clear.

That’s my job. I’m the gatekeeper of the Bombshells Division, not Jessie Salco, who seems to think so.

Love me or hate me, the fact remains that my legacy in Sin City Wrestling is unparalleled and beyond comparison. I think I've more than proven my greatness over the years. Being the most decorated champion in this company has to mean something. My resiliency enables me to learn from my mistakes and that's why I've continued to have championships around my waist set milestones and break records year after year.

Next week, I’ll be crushing Kayla’s throat under my boot to teach her that playing a tough girl aren’t enough to make the demands they do, that hard work, sacrifice and just a little luck and a whole lot of talent is the only way they’ll ever be respected.

And to prove to Kayla that just because she has a belt over her shoulder, she’s isn’t entitled to say my name let alone share the same ring or breathe the same air as me.

When I want something, I get it. If I fail, then I get up, regroup and come back stronger. I'm less than two weeks away from making history one more time and either that happens at Inception...

“Or I go out in a blaze of glory.

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

Losing happens to everyone. That’s just a fact of life. There are few things that are worse than losing. There are few things that are worse than losing to the same opponent. There are few things that are worse than losing to the same opponent multiple times.

Don't laugh.

That all happened to me at High Stakes.

I entered into a championship match expecting to leave once again with a title around my waist. For the fifth time now I left empty handed.

Don't laugh.

That all happened to me two weeks ago at Climax Control 346.

Thanksgiving has come and gone, but what do I have to be thankful for? First match of the new year, it was my fault why Goth and I lost the World Mixed Tag Team Championship at Inception back In January. 10 months later, I still don’t have a championship around my waist and I’m about to close this year title-less for the second time in three years. Despite the fact I managed to compete at every pay-per-view this year, break, tie or extend numerous records and once again wrestled the most matches this year.

At this point, no one thinks I can do anything. I had no business losing to Kayla Richards two weeks ago. Don’t get me wrong, Kayla is talented and she felt the need to tell everybody she is that good, if her win-loss record is anything to go by. She made sure to get herself booked that night for a reason. I don’t think she was aiming to defend her title for the second time in three weeks, but anything to get her from sitting in catering can only be a good thing, right?

Kayla’s the champion so she was obviously the favorite. Me, I’m the dark horse. It does drives me to go out there and prove to people how good I am. This wasn’t about Kayla Richards. This was more about me shutting her up than about taking her title, but I was perfectly fine killing two birds with one stone. After all, making history and continuing my legacy is what I do. It’s just that I’ve lost so many title opportunities this year, that they all seem to blend together. I know what Kayla can do and I know what I can do and while I’ve had the worst luck in title matches this year, I’ll be damned if I don’t take it all back.

If there is anyone who was bona fide, certified, and qualified to put a stop to Kayla’s title reign, SCW management found the right one. If there was any Bombshell Kayla thought she could intimidate, she found the wrong one, and if there was any Latina who was going to be the next Bombshell Internet Champion, they got the best one.

I've accomplished so much in SCW already as a multi-champion, Grand Slam Champion, Hall of Famer - and the list goes on and on if you want to go to Wikipedia yourself - that it’s easy forget that it's been nine years since I debuted.

If I somehow got past Kayla, that would be a miracle in and of itself. But then again, I've never doubted myself either. For someone who was said to be in a midlife crisis, past my prime and washed up, I think I've proven a lot of doubters wrong over the years. My resume in SCW and longevity says a lot and more often than not it tends to drown out the haters. It was supposed to be my time to prove the doubters wrong one more time because I had my date with destiny.

I planned to show Kayla why she shouldn’t mess with the La Campeon de Champeon because I planned on ending this year with gold around my waist.

I failed. Again.

They say you’re only as good as your last match and it’s not how you start but how you finish, both which I find true. I lost at High Stakes, I lost at Climax Control 346, I had two weeks to get over it and now this Sunday I'm going to go take care of business. I'm going to go fix that. I'm going to right the ship. I'm going to find a way to win my next match and end this losing streak I’ve been on since June. That's what I'm trying to do, that's what I'm going to do. I'm wrestling again this weekend, getting an opportunity to finally put this losing streak behind me while continuing to assault the SCW record books.

And something tells me Jessie Salco will be the   perfect tonic.

~~~

[The first two fallout shows following High Stakes has come and gone, but for Mercedes Vargas the sting of losing was still raw even two weeks removed from her latest setback at Climax Control 346 and nearly a month removed from the final supercard of 2022. In what was supposed to be a get-right kind of match and an opportunity to finally exorcise the demons that was this supercard and final claiming her first win over an opponent who has seemingly had her number as of late, none of those things happened as Mercedes once again found herself starting up at the arena lights to Krystal Wolfe and submitted to Kayla Richards, failing to win the Bombshell Internet Championship.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S: What am I doing? Seriously, what the hell is wrong with me? The first half of the year, I did okay, but now? I’ve won only won once since the second half of the year started. I thought things were starting to get better, but things are just getting worse. I don’t know what’s more embarrassing: that I haven’t won at High Stakes in eight years, that Krystal got the best of me, again, or that I can’t win a title match to save my life. Ugh!

[2022 is again shaping up to be another lost year for the Hall of Famer and it’s abundantly clear that every loss is testing her patience.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S: Bad enough I hear people keep telling me to call it a career just because I’m not stringing along wins like I’m used to. Now I have to hear people like that mealy mouth Aussie sullen my good name? The only reason Krystal got to live and tell about is by the grace of God and because I’m a nice person.

[Mercedes holds up her hand in a wait-a-minute-gesture]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S: Maybe not all the time, but most of the time.

[While Krystal wasn’t scheduled to compete on the first Climax Control following her triumph that weekend, even Mercedes knew better that Krystal would likely show up in Long Beach just to gloat. Kayla too. Probably. Of course, her upcoming match against Jessie Salco this weekend was now priority. At least changing the subject would get her mind off her most recent setbacks.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S: What did I think the Hall of Fame and SCW Year-End Awards? Of all the people who got in the Hall of Fame, I’m surprised Jessie got in, but then I’m not. Remember when I said that it was only a matter of time that she would get in. I called it. The only thing I’m disappointed in is they didn’t also give her personal section for most career losse, but I guess we’re supposed to make the nominees look good now.

[Leaning back in her arm chair, she’s amused at it all.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S: Truth is, I’m happy for Jessie. I still hate her, but I’m happy for her. Jessie’s Hall of Fame moment might as well be her World Series, Super Bowl or even World Cup. You could say it might be her Bombshell Championship moment since, you know, she won’t be winning that title anytime soon.

[Jessie Salco had a chance of making history as the first five-time Bombshell Roulette Champion, but Ariana Angelos had other plans. Salco’s golden opportunity ended up as a wasted opportunity. When word got to Mercedes about Jessie’s comments about her ahead of their clash Sunday, her tone shifts from friendly and chatty to slightly more serious. She stops nodding and smiling.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S: As far as Sunday goes, I can't wait for Climax Control. Sunday is about taking a stand, it's about making a statement. It's about sending a message that I don’t take a backseat to nobody and that includes, Jessica Marie Salco.

If there is anyone who runs their mouth the way she does, I have yet to find them. This match is going to be fun. And by fun, I mean Jessie’s getting crushed.

[She goes quiet again, a small chuckle as she slightly looks down before raising her head again at the camera.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S: Anything less would be uncivilized.

~~~

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

“There's nothing routine about our holiday routines.”

“We’re the only family where we cook turkey for Halloween, give presents on Thanksgiving, and hand out candy on Christmas. Make it make sense, Carmen!

“About as much sense as we’re out here in the hot sun, running around after a ball?”

[Mercedes is trading volleys with Carmen at the Santa Monica Tennis Center. By her own admission, Mercedes wasn’t too bad at the sport as she has beaten Carmen on an occasion or two, but she almost always won in the end. Mercedes was keeping up with Carmen swing for swing.]

CARMEN:
What got you pissed off today?

MERCEDES:
Let's just say that I had a lot of anger to work off. I’m fine.

[Mercedes stumbles, almost throws her racket away, but was able to backpedal to return a low serve. Mercedes and Carmen kept sending the ball back and forth over the net. A few people saunters on the court to watch the match. Carmen's forehand shot nearly caught Mercedes off guard, but she volleyed the ball right back.]

CARMEN:
Mercedes.

MERCEDES:
We're spending Thanksgiving with family. I don't know why we do this every year, it's annoying. Plus, they normally spend the holidays with us. Why do we have to go over there?

[Carmen laughs.]

MERCEDES:
Have you come to laugh at me in my miserable state?

CARMEN:
Nobody is forcing you. You want to go, fine. If you don’t, that’s fine too. We’ve been through this before.

MERCEDES:
I don't think I can do this anymore.
 
CARMEN: 
Don't let this become something you'll later regret.

[Carmen sends the ball out of play. Mercedes sighs as she retrieves it.]

MERCEDES:
I’m out of regrets. My career is at a crossroads and yet I know I'm a competitor. I come into every match knowing I’m the best.

CARMEN: 
What about desire, heart, the will to win...

MERCEDES:
I have a lot going for me, I guess humility is not one of them.

[Carmen trots back to her side of the court and bounces the ball with her racket before she tossing it in the air and hitting it. Backpedaling, Mercedes hit a return topspin shot which Carmen sends back over the net. Victory was hers, and she was going to rub it in, whether Mercedes cousin liked it or not.]

MERCEDES:
Juego, set y partido!
[Game, set, match!]

CARMEN: 
Good game.

[Mercedes was upset, whether that had to do with the loss or her stubbornness made no difference. She plays it cool, like she’s being interviewed after a match in SCW.

Working the weekend as usual, Mercedes had bigger issues to worry about. Namely, a fellow Hall of Famer who as of recently beat her in their last match.

Revenge is a dish best served cold. That Mercedes and Jessie were facing each again couldn’t have happened sooner. She was in a mood to get out some of this frustration from last show.

She only hoped that SCW was ready for some fireworks Sunday night.

~~~

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

[Mercedes Vargas kicks back in the living room of her Los Angeles residence. Under the brim of a bucket hat with the Argentina national team logo, the two-time SCW Hall of Famer sits down comfortably in an armchair while polishing her nails with a nail file.

“I’m out of answers. 2022 was supposed to be the year I put it all together, the year I was supposed to get a good run going and finally achieve my ultimate goals of winning a championship for the first time in a long time.

“I remember when I got off to a rough start, which wasn’t unsurprisingly surprising. I was more than ready to throw in the towel. Not that I was never too far from the title picture.

“I've been in Sin City Wrestling since 2013. I’ve practically done it all here. But it took something to realize that maybe just maybe I’ve reached my moment of clarity. That being said, I think it’s time for a career change, and after the losses to Kayla and Krystal, I thought a long time about this.”

[She covers her face in shame. The respective losses to Krystal Wolfe and Kayla Richards was something she did not expect, an upset, if you will. Nonetheless, upsets seems to be happening to her a lot more often than she cared to admit. With a sigh, Mercedes looks up again at the camera.]

“I may soon regret this, but at this point I don’t really care anymore.”

[A digital watch alarm beeps. Mercedes glances at it before looking back at the camera.]

“Time for my Only Fans. And the only thing I’ll have on is the vacuum.”



[We see Mercedes as she was before, still fully clothed, except this time we see her struggling to keep her hair from her face. Pan to the right to the hum of several fans operating at once. A pair of small table fans are next to a portable tower fan. Above these, a pedestal fan lets her hair blow upwards slightly.

Mercedes is running a vacuum over a Persian carpet. As if on cue, she powers off the fans and the vacuum, sets the latter aside, and turns to the camera.]

“Well, Jessie. Here we are again. Just another random Bombshell match on Climax Control. After a while they start to feel the same. You beat me, it means nothing except furthering your career, and adding another defeat to my record. But at least you got booked again this week, at least you have another victory ahead of our match, you build a little momentum on your ongoing pursuit of the Bombshell Championship, though I'm surprised you’re not one of the very few that's challenging Masque de Lune, considering that there’s very few Bombshells who wouldn’t stand a chance against her.

“Let's face it, 2022 isn’t the result I wanted and it’s certainly something I'm not readily to admit nor am I happy about. But make no mistake about it, Jessie, I'm not some newcomer. I'm not Bella Madison or Bea Barnhart. You know that I'm going into our match Sunday and keep up with you from the opening bell until the very end. Competition makes me stronger...and I like to think I play to my strengths.

“They say familiarity breeds contempt, and I’m really starting to believe that because we seem to run into each other more often than I care to admit. Like Thanksgiving, it happens every year. What I find comical, even hilarious, Jessie, is the fact that you of all people can talk down to me. Yeah, I know that I haven’t been winning lately, I know you’re one of the few Bombshells who have been here for over a decade, I know you recently became a Hall of Famer. Thing is, Jessie, for as long as we’ve been in SCW together and we’ve both have had lengthy careers, not to mention that we’re both now in the Hall…”

[Mercedes shows off her pair of Hall of Fame rings.]

“You think this gives you a pass, gives you any leeway, to disrespect me? No, no, no. That’s just not going to fly, mamita. Criticise me all you want, but I’ve been just as loyal and successful in SCW as you. Worked hard and got over on my own. Came back from concussions and nearly having my career ended several times. The Bombshell Division you see today, I played a huge part in that. I made an impact. To do that, you have to be a leader, a role model, and the best. There’s no need to look any further, I’m the woman who have it all— and there’s nobody good enough to take it from me.

“If you want to talk about dedication, if you want to find one of the pillars of the women’s division, you don’t have to go very far. I’ve been on practically every show. Whether on Climax Control or at pay-per-view; whether I was featured in the opening match, the mid-card or main event, there was a good chance my name was on the card and a very good chance you would see me in the ring.

“I'm too important in this company to ever be considered a stepping stone. I’ve reached milestones, shattered records, and dominated opponents since I joined the roster. With or without a title, I've proven without a doubt that I'm the most accomplished talent in the women's division and there is not a person alive on this roster that can say that I don’t have what it takes to become champion.

“You may be tired of us seeing each again and again, but I get a kick out of it. The fact that I have almost twice as many wins over you is one. That your wins over me were in tag and multi-woman matches is another. Oh, and the lone singles win over me when you took my Bombshell Internet Championship - you know the one win you keep beating that drum about - was six years ago. You know how many times I’ve beat you one-on-one?”

[Mercedes holds up four fingers.]

“Four times, including each of the last three times you stepped up to me. I put you down in a street fight last year, Jessie. Do you seriously think you’re going to beat me again?”

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

“Oh sweet summer child.”
 
[Mercedes begins to draw a graph on a mini whiteboard.]

“The more you fuck around, the more you’re going to find out.”

[Mercedes makes a horizontal line on the whiteboard, adding arrows on the ends of the line to indicate it is a number line. She puts the label "FIND OUT" to the right of the line to indicate the x axis. She marks the center of the line with a vertical tick mark and label it 0. This is the origin of the graph.]

“I’ve been blessed to have competed in over 200 matches in Sin City Wrestling, another faucet that you and I have in common, Jessie. Just so happens we’ve been involved in 25 matches in that time. Almost half were in multiwoman matches. A few of them saw either of us won, and that’s what I’m focused on. In the 14 matches between us that were important, you FOUND OUT that I was not to be underestimated.

“Nevertheless, you persisted. For example, our first ever one-on-one match, or the time I beat you and Amy Santino in retaining the Bombshell Roulette Championship. Oh, and that time me and Delia Darling beat you two in a tag match in rather short order.”

[Mercedes holds up a finger in a wait-a-minute gesture]

“Now, depending on who you ask, some might say you were a glutton for punishment. Others might say you were too dumb to live. Still others might say you’re beyond help. But then, it doesn’t really matter what the outcome was because at the end of the day, I guess you and I are destined to fight forever. When you think about it, no matter the year or the type of match, Jessie, as long as we’re still breathing we’re always going to find our names opposite on a match card.”

[She makes equally spaced tick marks on the rest of the x axis. She labels the tick marks from 1 to 10 on the right side of the zero. She put the label "FUCK AROUND" above the line then make equally spaced tick marks on the y axis. She then labels the tick marks from 2 to 20 above the 0.]

“Now for the most important part of the my FAFO graph.”

[Mercedes draws a line which intersects her graph diagonally.]

“I think we all figured out how much we found out and how much we can find out. For example, the three Ultimate X Over the matches we’ve competed in our careers. I’m going to label this a level of six...”

[She draws a circle around six on the FIND OUT portion on the graph.]

“So I draw a horizontal to my gradient line, then I’m go straight down to the FUCK AROUND line.]

[She draws said line.]

“So this tells me how much did Jessie fucked around to find out what she needed to find out.“

[Mercedes repeats this motion drawing a horizontal line from the ten tick mark to the vertical line and then draws a straight line to the ten on the y part of her line].

“So you see, Jessie, the more you fuck around, the more you’re going to find out. Not that finding out isn’t always a bad thing. It could be good, it could be bad. But to find out sometimes you gotta take those risks in life and fuck around! Or you will never find out!”

[Mercedes then draws a circle at the zero part of the graph.]

“But also if you stay down here and you never fuck around - in other words, you forfeiting our match Sunday - you’re never going to find out. The choice is an easy one, Jessie.

“But then, I’ve never known you to take good advice.”

***Fade***

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy days are here again.

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

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

[She puts her match with Candy into perspective.]

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

[Jab, Cross, Uppercut, Duck.

Mercedes keeps in mind the workout combination.]

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

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

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

.::MERCEDES::..
Don’t remind me.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

.::MERCEDES::..
Me.

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

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

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

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

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


Las Vegas, Nevada
10:20 PM

O brave new world that has such people in it!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

[REC•]

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

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

[Mercedes gives off a nonchalant shrug.]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Her tone is overly enthusiastic.]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I'm going to make that inevitable.

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

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

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

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

***Fade***

[Mercedes Vargas battled Seleana Zdunich to the bitter end, but the former Bombshell Roulette Champion got the better of the Hall of Famer once again, just after beating her for the first time in a long time in their prior meeting before last week. This wasn’t the result she wanted, especially after ending the then-winless streak she had against her rival, in a most satisfying way to end the slide.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S: I've been replaying it on loop for the last week. Whatever I try to do, I can’t shake off Seleana. Now I have to see her again Sunday? Was I really that evil in my past life?

[Of course, the other major headline was Mercedes facing Candy at Violent Conduct in addition to Masque de Lune being named the number one contender to Roxi Johnson’s Bombshell Championship. When word got to Vargas about this, her tone shifts from friendly and chatty to slightly more serious. She stops nodding and smiling.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S: Not sure why they would give Roxi an extra title defense before the supercard, but I don’t make the matches. See, I could have shown up in Mark and Christian’s office to plead my case for a title shot but I didn't have to. Obras son amores, que no buenas razones. Actions speaks louder than words. Seleana should count herself lucky she even had this win-and-your-in scenario but she’s done herself no favors. Now that she’s involved, there's no chance she’s walking out with the title. End of story. She talks all she wants about having my number. She can say whatever she wants, tell the people what they want to hear, but even she knows she needs divine intervention to walk out with the Bombshell Championship. It happened three years. It won’t happen Sunday.

Her golden opportunity is going to end up a wasted opportunity. I wouldn't miss it for the world.

[Now that she has an opportunity to dash Seleana’s hopes at a second Bombshell Championship reign. But what of Mercedes’ goal to claim her third world title overseas?]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S: I won my first Bombshell Championship in Japan. I won my second in New Zealand. I would love to win my third in India. I guess you can say I love winning championships overseas, hmm?

[She goes quiet again, a small chuckle as she slightly looks down before raising her head again at the camera.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S: I can't wait for Climax Control. Hopefully, I can play spoiler, though I'm going to have my work cut out for me. Roxi isn’t a champion for a reason.”

[In the meantime, Vargas will be doing promotional work to hype up the supercard, though she's keeping those details close to the vest.]

“Well, if I told you, it wouldn't be much of a surprise now, would it? You're going to have to keep your eyes peeled. You never know where I might show up.”



Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 14 al 21 de agosto de 2022

You know, they say good things come to those who wait. But it seems like I'm still waiting for a lot of things in Sin City Wrestling. I'm still waiting for my first pay-per-view win in quite awhile, still waiting for my first championship this year, still waiting for the respect I think I so richly deserve. Hell, even before this little match, I was assuming I was getting a one-on-one title match. Ahead of my match last week against Seleana, she got a little incentive. Didn’t matter if I didn’t last week, she didn’t deserve it in the first place, and I still stand by it.

Only a few actually make it to the very, very top in Sin City Wrestling, almost no one can do it for as long as I have. People come and go, give excuses, criticize the company. But who stay and work hard definitely become legend. I’m at a place in life where I’m most happy and I could go without winning another championship and still be more relevant that I am now.

And yet people don’t respect me. I don’t get the respect I deserve from Sin City Wrestling. I don’t get the respect I DESERVE from the fans. I don’t get the respect from anyone in the locker room. I mean, I went on to become the first and only Bombshell to win every championship available in the women’s division. I’ve won 14 championships in this very  company. I was and still am the only Bombshell to reach 10 championships in a career. I have main evented at Summer XXXTreme and at Climax Control several times. But I still get NO RESPECT. I’ve heard that people think I’m bitter about other Bombshells getting opportunities I should have got, and honestly, that never bothered me, not in the least.

When I began my career, who’s around now that was around then? I could count them on one hand. Who is left of the Mean Girls, the most dominating faction in the history of SCW?  Nobody. I am the one CONSTANT in Sin City Wrestling. I am a pioneer in the women’s division. Every Bombshell who comes down that entrance ramp eat at the table I set for them. I walked so others can run, I paved the road so they can travel, I set the bar so others can reach. Before I came here, that bar was lowered. Yet as I look at the state of the division, maybe I raised that bar a little too high.

Yet I get no respect. I worked for it, I earned it, I deserve it. But I don’t. Why is that? Is it because I don’t light up everyone’s Twitter timeline on Women Crush Wednesday like some desperate attention whore? Is it because I have never been left off a supercard since I joined the roster? Or is it because I didn’t just use wrestling as a stepping stone to bigger and better things such as, oh, I don’t know, acting or modeling. I didn’t just pay my dues in front of hundreds of thousands of people. I’ve paid my dues in front of millions of people.

I’ve accomplished everything that there is to accomplish in SCW, and in less time than most people in their careers. I started my career already as an international talent, and now, I’m a bonafide legend. I don’t put my life on the line every night for your approval, much less your entertainment. Is that why you don’t respect me?

Since I’ve been in SCW, a little over nine years now, I’ve made enemies left and right, more enemies than I care to admit. Some people have been jealous of my success since day one. Others think I’m too arrogant for my own good. But no one, no one, has gotten under my skin quite like Seleana Zdunich. She goes around acting like she’s so special. Let's just go ahead and leave out the fact that it took me six months to get another opportunity at the Bombshell Championship while she gets to be in another title match after four months. After her fluke win last week, she probably think she really has a chance of pulling off a miracle this Sunday. But the only person she’s fooling is herself.

As for Roxi Johnson, she knows that as champion she’s got a target on her back. She’s gone through a long list of women on her way to becoming champ, and staying champ. Great to hear, good for her. Roxi has a rematch with Masque de Lune at Violent Conduct, and it’s assumed she will still be champion by then.

While Roxi probably thinks Seleana and I will be in her rear view, she needs to remember one thing:

Objects in mirror are closer than they appear.

And so, without getting too cocky, which I am wont to do, I’m going to walk into the go-home Climax Control to Violent Conduct and I’m going to take the Bombshell World Championship around Roxi’s waist. And honestly, I don’t care who I have to beat to get the job done. These past few weeks, months, year only serve as setbacks to setup my comeback. And despite what you may think, failure isn't fatal. But I am.

I’m the ultimate veteran. I’ve seen it all and, yes, I've done it all. But I'm not done yet in SCW and I will not sleep until I'm once again Bombshell Champion. My chances may be thirty-three percent, but my confidence is 100 percent that I’ll do whatever it takes to once again make history. I've not only overcame odds, I've beaten them. Has it happened all the time? No. But you've seen enough of my matches to know that while I may be down, I'm never out.

Now, you can call me what you want. Smug, arrogant, delusional. But the only thing you need to refer to me as is the uncrowned Bombshell World Champion.

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

 

K O L K A T A, I N D I A

“At some point, I’m going to be tired living life out of a suitcase.”

“Seem like you’re having a good time to me.”

[Mercedes Vargas smiles broadly as she takes a selfie with her smart phone before transferring back to her video call with her friends. Irma and Ricardo are at the studio going through a brainstorming session. Each have a pile of script rewrites before them.]

Mercedes: What can I say, I like selfies.

Irma: There’s only so many duckface selfies you can take in one session, Merce. Think you got a little “snap happy.” there.

Mercedes: I’m only sharing my experiences with the world I live  in. Is that so wrong?

Irma: I’ve been told it’s a form of online narcissism.

Mercedes: I never thought about it like that. What are you working on?

Ricardo: There’s a film festival coming up later this month. As you can see, things aren’t going so well.

Mercedes: That rough, huh? Such is the life of a film writer.

Ricardo: Thank you for sharing my pain.

Mercedes: I’ll send you a postcard from India.

[Mercedes takes another quick selfie.]

Ricardo: Nevertheless, she persisted.

Irma: Did you practice yoga like I told you?

Mercedes: Yeah, I think I’m less stressed out before I started. I’m still trying to master the Tree Pose. I just don’t know if it’s really exercise or creative standing. I was always told I was awkward. How do you do it?

Irma: Balance.



Present Day ♦ C H A N D I G A R H, I N D I A

[REC•]

[Scene opens as we see throngs of people from all walks of life out and about in the city square. Shops, cafes, all could be found in this bustling part of the Chandigarh, India. Despite a slight breeze blowing in, the sun shone brilliantly on this afternoon as Mercedes enters the shot. She smiles at the camera.]

“And so I find myself in a world title match for the first time in a long time since my last time competing for the Bombshell World Championship, which this time it’s against Roxi Johnson, which isn’t our first time and it sure won’t be our last. Regardless, this time Roxi won’t get the best of me because I’ve proven that I can string along a few wins together at any given time.”

[She crosses an intersection and, once on the other side of the street, she continues.]

“There’s just major development to this match. I guess some people think I’m only in this match so I can make a run at the world championship. That's about all that could've been asked of me.”

[She shrugs.]

“This all could have been avoided, this triple threat match. I thought I had Seleana Zdunich right where I wanted her, but like her namesake, the Black Cat had nine lives and lived to fight another day, at my expense. That day is just around the corner. A triple threat match for the Bombshell Championship held by Roxi Johnson. And while she’s held this title for since March, it’s becoming increasingly clear her days as champion are numbered.

“It’s one thing for yours truly having a need to find motivation for when I have absolutely nothing left to prove. I realize I’m closer to the end of my career than the beginning but just because I’ve accomplished a lot in my career, doesn’t mean I’ve lost the chip on my shoulder. That's how I’ve stayed on top this long. As one of the most established stars in the Bombshells Division, I’m pretty much teflon. And I don’t even need to flaunt my accomplishments. I’m like a Venus flytrap — beautiful and deadly at the same time.”

“It goes without saying that I have a lot more to lose than Seleana does this Sunday. If I lose, I still have my legacy to define me.”

[Mercedes does a stereotypical Swedish accent, though it sounded more like an exaggerated Northern Minnesota accent ala Fargo.]

“If Seleana loses? Well, yeah, she’s still got that fluke title win to fall back on, ja?”

[Her voice has a sharp edge and there was a lot of passion and intensity behind it.]

“When the referee counted the three, I knew I gave my all against Seleana but it wasn’t good enough last week, and then I remembered that I’m only as good as my last match. I’m not defined by one match, or in my case, several matches. Obviously, I haven’t been the champion in a little bit, but I’m not defined by my title drought either. I am in the title picture, and I will always be in the title picture.”

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

“It's one of those unfortunate side effects of being that damn good.“

[Mercedes stops, crossing her arms and now giving the camera her full attention.]

“When it comes to big time matches, nobody does it better. Triple threat? I AM the triple threat! I am second to none. And when it comes to making history, I am the first to do it.”

[Upon saying that, she uses both hands and motions at herself.]

“So if I were Roxi, I wouldn't plan on holding that title for very long.”

[Smiling while saying that, her arrogance was at an all-time high and that is saying something because we never thought that Mercedes  could get any more arrogant than what she already was.]

“Roxi may be champion but she’s also on notice. It’s not on you, it’s in you. A CHAMPION.”

[With that, Mercedes walks off, but the camera stays on the picturesque view of the city as our scene fades.]

***Fade***

[Need to know today's forecast? Want to know tonight's Lotto numbers? Sorry, Mercedes Vargas is probably not the person to ask. If you're looking for spoilers for the Summer XXXTreme pay-per-view three weeks ago, well, you're just fresh out of luck. Even if she was eerily accurate on every match at the supercard, though that was few and far between, she would have enjoyed this night more.

Mercedes sat in her Porsche Cabriolet on a cool night in Los Angeles, stuck in a pensive mood on the night that was as she contemplates on what could have been. The Hall of Famer has made a career out of making moments and making history. That night aboard the Sun Princess, history was denied - again.

It’s tough losing a title match. It’s even tougher on pay-per-view. Before she was set to board for another international trip, how would she psyche herself out of another defeat at one of her most unluckiest supercards this time around?]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S:

“I was this close, this close. Can we just say that I’m cursed at Summer XXXTreme? God must be punishing me. I mean, even Jessie Salco finally won at Summer XXXTreme. How do you go ten straight events without winning at least once?! Don't get me wrong, I feel bad for her. In a perfect world, no one should lose that many times but that’s crazy!”

[An unapologetic shrug follows. Point made.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S:

“Melissa won the Ultimate X match and the Bombshell Roulette Championship, good for her. I feel awful just thinking what she must be going through right now. Winning a championship is one thing, keeping it is another. Next.”

[And then then there was what happened at the first Climax Control following Summer XXXTreme at CC 336.]

“Beating up Kat Jones after her loss to Crystal last week. Do I have any regrets? Hmm, let me think about that. No. Can’t say that I have. I bet she never sent it coming though. Serves her right for what she said about me. Well, here's the wakeup call she never saw coming: it's time to shape up or ship out.”

[When asked about Mercedes’ match with Masque de Lune, the Argentine bristled at the question.]

“I don’t know why this match didn’t happen sooner. They say you often meet your fate on the road you take to avoid it. Well, I think we’re on a collision course this weekend and I bet those fans can’t wait to see how this ends. Me crushing Masque’s throat under my boot would be great.

“I'm one of SCW’s mainstays, and I wasn't even here on the first show. If Sunday is the last time you see me in an SCW ring, would you tell Oprah I love kittens?”

[You can't fault Mercedes for the ambition -- she’s not going to get up there and say he's happy just to make the card for-- but both she and SCW fans will likely be disappointed this weekend if they're actually expecting an upset.]

“For as long as I've been here, I haven’t back down from a challenge, and that's not about to start now. Ask around, they’ll tell you. At the end of the day, Masque can be beaten. It’s been done before, it can happen again.

I’m ready for it. Let’s go.”

[Cautiously optimism or foolish endeavor. Sometimes the lines are blurred. One thing was for sure, she wasn’t going to be no one’s martyr if she could help it.

For whom the bell tolls? She would answer it.]

 

Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 26 al 31 de julio de 2022

Some people are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them. Some have the longevity, others have consistency but rarely does someone has both such as yours truly. Thing is, it seems to me that when you’re good, nobody remembers you. When you’re bad, nobody forgets you.

Life is funny like that.

I am a bonafide legend and my accomplishments speak for themselves. I have accomplished nearly everything I could have ever dreamed of and then some. I've had my share of ups, downs, failures, and successes and coped with them all. Of course, the difference between me and the laundry list of names who breezed through this company? I came out stronger for it. That's why you'll never see me leave this promotion unless I'm CARRIED out, something neither one of you, even with the same brain cell, will be capable of doing. Go ahead and mock my title reigns while you're at it. The record book still says I'm the most decorated champion in this company, and that’s never going to change.

The SCW Women's division has risen to a new level. Maybe it’s a course correction. Or maybe I’m just looking too deep into it because the times, they are a changing. I’m not better than anyone else, but nobody is better than me. Nobody. I built the foundation and can still compete with whoever is brave enough to stand in my way.

That isn’t arrogance. It's the facts. And you can’t argue with facts.

But let’s get this back to where it should be.

Everybody knows about Masque de Lune. She has no conscience and sleeps great at night with no concern over her misdeeds. Similar to Amber Ryan. And yet, out of pure jealousy or spite or malice, all it took was a brutal assault to make Masque public enemy number one in Sin City. Mostly every Bombshell wanted her blood, some still do. It didn’t stop at Summer XXXTreme when she got exposed, let’s make that clear. Now, I was taught to never kick someone while they’re down - and most people with violent tendencies wouldn’t stop at that when it comes to Masque these days - because more often than not they will get back up again.

Roxi was right as rain when she said that Masque will be coming for her because she didn’t stop Masque, she just slowed her down. Until that time, Masque will no doubt circle the date she and Roxi meet again. For now, Masque has a date with me this weekend. But you know something, I get the feeling I’m not going to like this date very much. On the night of my milestone 200th career match, I guess I wasn’t as lucky as Jessie Salco when she had her 200th match last week, but those are the cards I’ve been dealt with, so I’m going to deal.

The fact that Masque failed to win the Bombshell World Championship from Roxi Johnson three weeks ago is not lost on me. I also know Masque has been looking forward to our match for awhile because as you might remember, it was me and Diamond Steele taking on Masque and Amber until Diamond had a change of heart and bailed on me at the last second so the match had to be changed. Again, I wasn’t going to take on Masque and Amber by myself and I sure as hell wasn’t going to face them with a new partner so I took the night off. I’m sure Masque and Amber were disappointed, but the Metal Maniacs are always after a good time, so I’m glad they stepped up when they did.

Only this time, I’m going to step up and back it up.

Masque wanting to face me this weekend probably makes her want to tap dance down the aisle. She has an appetite for destruction that makes Twisted Sister and Iron Maiden seem pale in comparison. Maybe I’m a glutton for punishment. Or, maybe, just maybe, I’m looking forward to this match too, Masque.

You think you’re so badass and cool with your little plastic mask. Not that I’m scared, not that I care. I don’t care about your mask. You know what that tells me. It tells me your scared, it tells me you’re insecure. When I see my opponent I look them dead in the eye and I want them to look at mine. Because there’s no fear behind these eyes, only anticipation. What are you hiding? Honestly, I don’t care if you have a plastic mask, a prosthetic arm, a glass eye, or a peg leg.

Don’t get me wrong, your record, just like your reputation, precedes you. I won’t let your mask fool me because beyond that lies someone who is a killer. But If you think you can be just as evil and ruthless, just wait until you see the other side of Mercedes Vargas. That’s the side that you will be getting on Sunday. When I rip off that mask of superiority, I want to look into your cold, sullen eyes and see what I see. And for the first time ever, you will know pain, you will know hurt, and you will know loss. And when I beat the ten shades of shit out of you, you’re going to respect me.

There are prime time players and those who say they are. I’m ALWAYS going to show up and show out because I rise to every occasion. I’m not like these other girls you got scurrying around. I’m a different breed and I’m nothing to fuck with. Regardless if it’s you, if it’s Kayla, or Chloe, or Melissa, or someone coming up from Sin City Underground, no matter what happens Sunday, you are going to remember that you were in a fight with me. Full stop. Period. End of story.

This Sunday I will be wearing black because there’s going to be a funeral, but it won’t be mine. Roxi already put the nail in your coffin at Summer XXXTreme and come Sunday, mamita, I’m going to be the hammer that drives it home.

So you tell yourself whatever you need to get yourself to sleep each night, you say whatever words you think will give you some validation but know this... None of it means a damn thing to me. I learned a long time ago that people will say whatever they have to, to get what they want. Just like you're going to convince everyone that you're the best without.

Prepare for the worst, hope for the best. And may the odds be ever in your favor.

 

“So, it’s 2AM and my neighbor is outside mowing his lawn. I’m about to call the cops because what the hell?”

“So miss… Whatchu do for a living?”

[Mercedes Vargas is in the backseat of an Uber as she is driven to the airport. The eyes of the Uber driver seemed interested through the rear view mirror.

Mercedes seems reluctant to answer.]

Mercedes: “Uhhh… I’m a box maker.”

[Mercedes doesn’t always lie about her profession but sometimes she still do so she doesn’t get bombarded with questions. The secret is the most boring the career, the better. She says she’s a sports writer and the Uber driver talks endlessly about his sports team. Say she was a realtor and there are in the market for a new home. It never ends. So box maker it is. Nobody ever wants to talk about making boxes.

Uber driver: A box maker? How did you get into that?

Mercedes: Funny, you say that. I was always told I was good with my hands. And I like keeping things simple. It pays the bills, at least.

Uber driver: So you know your way around boxes? So you’re like the Gordon Ramsey of cardboard?

Mercedes: “Yeeeah … Something like that.”

[Mercedes is so deep in this web of lies she probably thinks she’s actually working for him now.]

Uber driver: That sounds pretty easy.

Mercedes: Oh, trust me, it’s not. I have a deliberating condition that makes me hate waking up early and rather staying in bed.

Uber driver: And there's a word for this?

Mercedes: Clinomania.

Uber driver: Clinomania?

Mercedes: Google is your friend. Look it up.

Uber driver: How do you force yourself to get up every morning to get to work?

Mercedes: Coffee, concealer, and Jesus. Sometimes not in that order.

 

Present Day ♦ J A I P U R • I N D I A

[Mercedes is standing in front of City Palace wearing minimal makeup and dressed in a pashminas that cover her shoulders, partly in protest of the heat and partly because of the laws here in India, especially important in religious temples.]

“So it’s been over three weeks since Summer XXXTreme and I’ve had some time to pause and reflect. I didn’t win the Bombshell Roulette Championship, I wasn’t even in the final two in the Ultimate X Over the Pool match, but the last few weeks meant more to me than winning a title could ever have. My mini-winning streak was all I needed to remind everyone in the back AND myself that I’m still a major player in this division. I’m so capable and I’m proud of myself.”

[And why wouldn’t she be? Mercedes wasn’t just a pretty face or another name on the roster. If anything, she was one of if not the most consistent performer on the roster.]

“I’m especially proud about what I did to Kat Jones last week. Did she seriously think she was getting away with what she’s been saying about me? Kat got just what she deserved. If it wasn’t for Melissa getting into my business, Kat would be sitting next to Amber Ryan on the injured list. But Kat isn’t my concern this week. It’s Masque de Lune. Raise your hand if you saw this on your bingo card?”

[The odds of that is slim, but this was still the match the fans thought they didn’t need.]

“Masque de Lune. What do you say about Masque? Well, Masque doesn’t lose very often. She's only lost two matches in the almost six months she's been here, and she's only been pinned once. She’s downright scary. You know what’s scares people more? Success. And every time someone gets to the top there’s haters that want to bring them down. Pillars get knocked down, but foundations stay standing, and I’ve been a foundation in this company for nearly a decade. See, the problem isn't people seeing you too well, Masque. It's people hearing you too well. You seem like a fairly smart girl. Then you start to talk…

“Oh, your words. Your words hurt, your words cut, but they're not a sword. Most of the time when I listen to you, I can't honestly understand a thing you say. All you ever do is
talk in circles.”

[Mercedes makes a circular motion with her hands].

“I'm not here to make fun of you. I'm not looking down my nose at you because you're different, that you dress different. You're an outcast, a pariah. That’s fine by me. Come Sunday, do your worst and bring your best, Masque, because I’ll be right here waiting.

“You want me, come and get me.”

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

“See you Sunday.”

[Mercedes waves at the camera and smiles. She holds this for a moment as our scene fades].

***Fade***

Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 26 de junio al 2 de julio de 2022

I want to make something perfectly clear. Last week, Melissa may have had a fluke victory, but there’s only one person at fault here - JESSIE! SALCO!

Can someone explain to me why we have to see her punchable face at commentary? She adds nothing to the matches, she brings nothing to the table. Of course, as opposed to a lot of other wrestlers throughout the years, Jessie isn’t really known for all the championships she’s won, much less the matches that she won. The only thing Jessie knows all too well is losing! She’s a real pro at it. And as we are coming up on her ten-year anniversary since her first match in SCW, quite an accomplishment, don’t get me wrong, she’s done a lot of losing. More than anybody who has ever laced up a pair of boots in the six sided ring. But you don’t have to take my word for it. Just ask the laundry list of Bombshells who has beat Jessie over the last 10 years - some of them have beat her multiple times.

Forget a lifetime achievement award. Jessie needs to have her own wing in the Hall of Fame.

She’s the standard.
She’s the blueprint.
She’s the bar.

But let’s get this where it needs to be. As far as the Ultimate X match, I don’t see why I had to qualify in the first place. People all over the world know who Mercedes Vargas is. With all of my big moments, from winning the first ever Queen for a Day to my championship reigns and rewriting the history books, I should be in the title picture all the time. If anything, Melissa and Kayla has to prove to me that they are even at my level and Kat might as well put a nice big bow on that championship and hand it to me as my birthday present, which just happened to be last weekend, by the way.

You know, I used to think I was cursed whenever Summer XXXTreme came around. I couldn’t buy a win there even if it was special surprise in a box of Cracker Jacks, and that infuriated me to no end. But nothing lasts forever and I did win eventually. You know the one: the time me and Kain beat London Underground for the World Mixed Tag Team Championship. The first-ever champions. It was London Underground’s only loss in a 2-on-2 tag match. Ever. Not for trying, Daniel J Morgan and Charlotte Elliot made us earn that reign. I could now breath a sigh of relief. I felt a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders.

I didn’t mind the 10 pounds of gold that was draped over it though.

Oh, and I guess the fact that night also made me the first wrestler ever in SCW to reach 10 championships in a career, not to mention, but I’ll mention, that I also captured all five championships in the Bombshells Division, doesn’t hurt either. That was four years ago.

What really hurts is that I haven’t won at Summer XXXTreme since then.

The last time I was in a Ultimate X Over the Pool match was in 2019, and I was the defending Bombshell Roulette Champion unlike my first match in 2013. Here was my chance to climb those cables to retrieve my championship, but that didn’t happen. I had an opportunity to shake off a nearly nine year nightmare in this match. Instead, Samantha Marlowe shoved off Kate Steele and claimed the Bombshell Roulette Championship for herself. So you can forgive me if this match and this pay-per-view is a little more personal for me than the other girls in this match.

Melissa and Kayla are looking to make a first impression on the biggest stage and I know Kat is going to say something along the lines that she didn’t get this far just to get this far, but this is one roadblock she can’t get over, under, around, or through. Winning a championship is one thing …keeping it, well, that is the real challenge. If there was ever a time where Kat needs to step it up, I’m pretty sure Summer XXXTreme is the time and place. The stakes are high, and her chances of losing her title are higher. There’s a reason why the Bombshell Roulette Championship has changed hands at Summer XXXTreme three of the last five editions of the Ultimate X Over the Pool so there’s guaranteed to be a new champion.

Besides that tidbit, this is set up perfectly. Kat, Kayla, and Melissa? They’ve never wrestled at Summer XXXTreme before much less in the Ultimate X Over the Pool. For Melissa and Kayla, they’re also making their pay-per-view debut. I’ve never been left off a Summer XXXTreme card since joining SCDub and I’ve competed in more Ultimate X matches than anyone not named Jessie Salco. Did I mention that I’m the first ever four-time Bombshell Roulette Champion? I did? Well it bears repeating: I’m the first ever four-time Bombshell Roulette Champion. This is my match to lose and my moment of redemption.

There will be haters, there will be doubters, there will be skeptics, and then there will be me proving you all wrong. Because in a land of yesterday’s flash in the pans and tomorrow's flavors of the months, I am the right here and now. Self-confident, successful. That’s who I am. I know I have my work cut out for me, but it's not so much that I'm already dreading next Sunday, oh, no, far from it. People seem to forget that I always find a way to rise to the big occasion. I have no problem offering the locker room, the fans, and the entire world a reminder. The way I see it, I’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain at Summer XXXTreme. I’m prepared for anything because I stay ready so I don’t have to get ready.

So at Summer XXXTreme, Melissa, Kayla, and Kat are going to find out first hand that I don’t just talk the talk when I say I am The One-Woman Dynasty and The Champion of Champions, I walk the walk.

And I’m going to be walking out your new Bombshell Roulette Champion.

Deal with it.

 

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

[Scene: Mercedes’ friends, minus Mercedes herself, are in her residence round the lounge table, playing Uno. Mercedes enters.]

Mercedes: Hey.

All: Hey!

Irma: How was Arizona?

Mercedes: Not very exciting the last time I visited, but it was very hot. Triple digits in some places.

All: Ouch!

Ricardo: What other state has a town named Nowhere or a town named Why? No wonder you were bored.

Tomas: How did your match go, Mercedes? You won?

Mercedes: No, I didn’t. My win streak is over. But I’m not crying because it’s over, I’m smiling because it happened.

[Mercedes smiles.]

Ricardo: I know what can cheer you up. We want to make it up to you for missing your birthday. How about a day at the beach?

All: Yeah! Yeah, we can!

Ricardo: Awesome! Okay! Tomorrow we're gonna drive out to Los Angeles. I know a guy who knows a guy who knows a guy who gives me his beach house.



Irma: (to Ricardo) Damn! I can't go, I remembered I have to work that day!


Tomas: That's too bad, so sad.

Hugo: (sarcastic) Ohh, bummerrr.

[Irma offers Hugo and Thomas a look.]

Tomas: Can I take a rain check? I'm meeting my parents. You how the meeting of the parents. And I’m going skydiving that weekend.

Mercedes: Oh, okay. Sounds like fun. But not more fun than a weeklong sea cruise! Remember last year?

Tomas: Oh yeah! That was awesome. The ship fell behind schedule and we had sea sickness and cabin fever for days!

Irma: Or the time we all had to wear masks and had to shelter in place? That was a nightmare. We couldn’t even take pictures with the crew.

Ricardo: Or the time I won $1,000 dollars at the slot.

Mercedes: And lost it over the next couple nights at the machine?

Ricardo: That was a repressed memory, but thanks for bringing that back.

Mercedes: So, are we still going to the beach?

All: Uh…

Mercedes: I think I need to find some new friends.

 

Present Day ♦ H E R M O S A B E A C H • C A L I F O R N I A

[REC•]

[The shore at Hermosa Beach, just 20 miles southwest of Los Angeles. Bathing suit-clad beachgoers sashaying down the sunny California boardwalk, enjoy the Fourth of July weekend. We find Mercedes Vargas sinking her toes in the sand, dressed in a Panama hat and a floral print halter tankini skirt. Nothing soothes the soul more quite like a day at the beach. For Mercedes, there was just something about the smell of salty water, the prestige calm of the waves, and the ocean breeze in her face and tossling her hair that seemed peaceful almost.

As if on cue, Mercedes turns to the camera.]

“Summer XXXTreme is just around the corner, and you know what that means. Everyone knows the summer packing essentials, right?”

[Mercedes begins throwing various items in a straw tote bag.]

“You have your sunglasses. Check. Sunscreen. Check. Sandles. Check. And water. More water. And more water.”

[Mercedes adds three large bottles of water to her inventory.]

“It's not easy being the most accomplished Bombshell, let alone wrestler, in Sin City Wrestling. It’s a lot of hard work. I’m sure most of you out there are wondering, what does it take to be that damn good year after year, even when your win-loss record isn’t anything to write home about.

“I like to think my infamy is undeserved, but then again, maybe it is? Some people say that I'm arrogant for my own good and some will go out of their way to call me flat out delusional, and maybe I am. That's just part of my charm. The thing that gets people so wound up is their biased claim that I'm better than all of them. Again, not true. Confidence isn't walking into a room thinking you're better than everyone, it's walking in not having to compare yourself to anyone at all. And that...THAT is what separates me from everyone else. Plenty of Bombshells have sullied my name in order to get my attention, but that would mean I would have to make them matter, which they don’t. But I’m going to make an exception for the three Bombshells who are my opponents next Sunday in the Ultimate X Over the Pool match because they DO matter.

“Melissa has all the makings to be a future Bombshell World Champion and I believe that’s an accomplishment she’ll achieve several times over before her time in SCW comes to an end. She’s still undefeated but even if she loses next Sunday, she’s well on her way to doing great things.

“I don’t say that just because, Melissa. I meant what I said last time we met. The sky is the limit for you. Will you get there? Time will tell. Who knows. Maybe you might be greater than your fiancé some day.”

[Mercedes doesn’t always offer endorsement of her fellow peers, but when she does, it’s because they’ve impressed her, which is very difficult to do.]

“Who knew that Summer XXXTreme would set the stage for yours truly to revisit a rivalry for the first time in nearly six years? But yet here we are, Kayla. The way SCW tells it, you being signed was kind of a big deal. How lucky are we to get a huge star from various companies all around the world. I’m sure we all wanted to know what all the hype was about. So far you’ve been good as advertised, beating Bea, Ariana, and Levana, and now you earned yourself a chance at the Bombshell Roulette Championship right off the bat. So, obviously, you have talent and ability.

“As far as you and me goes, they say that familiarity breeds contempt. True words were never spoken. Facing you doesn't really bother me as much as you think it does, because I happen to know better. No matter what you say, no matter what you do, no matter how many times you stamp your feet like a petulant child, you can intimidate the other girls in the division, but your Jedi mind tricks don’t work on me. If your sister Amber couldn’t do it, you don’t stand a fucking chance.”

“So bring everything you got. Do your worst, bring your worst. Matter of fact, bring your best too, mamita. Because come next Sunday night, win or lose, paycheck or not, none of that changes. I'll still be Mercedes Vargas, still be The Argentine Assassin, still be relevant in professional wrestling. As for you? You'll still be trying to get people to listen to you scream about who you are.

“And no one will.”

[An unapologetic shrug follows. Point made.]

“In her mind, Kat Jones feels that she’s better than the Bombshell Roulette Championship. And if you don’t think she wouldn’t vacate the Bombshell Roulette Championship in a heartbeat to challenge Roxi Johnson for her Bombshell World Championship and get payback against Masque at the same time, well, I have a sandcastle to sell you.

[An slight pan of the camera shows a pretty impressive sand castle. Next to it is a sign stake in the fashion of those RE/MAX for sale signs. There’s a portrait of Mercedes followed by the words: “Mercedes Vargas: Sandcastle Agent. Call now for a free estimate”.]

“Kat, you’ve had it easy so far versus Seleana and Ariana in your recent defenses. Not so much this time around. Hate to break it to you, but you’re a distracted champion right now, Kat, and that’s a dangerous position to find yourself ahead of a tough title defense. That usually spells a short title reign. And as good as you are, especially how you strung those wins together before your lost to Masque last week, that’s exactly what’s goin to happen. Sorry, not sorry.

“I know you’re hearing voices in your head - Masque’s, Amber’s, Roxi’s….maybe even your own. But not the voices that is going to tell you that you have any chance of walking out champion.”

[Whether that news comes via a text message, express mail, or through a statement, the hope is that Mercedes' message will get through to the champion. Kat knew the pressure was on versus her three challengers and all three posed a serious threat to her reign, but only Mercedes had the uncanny history of raising championships above her head in front of sold-out crowds in Sin City Wrestling.]

“My first loss in over a month hasn't cracked my resolve. I get knocked down, but I get up again. You’re never going to keep me down. Did I get inspiration from a 90s song? Yes. Yes, I did.”

[Mercedes swipes a hand over her face. The once proud smile she had has transformed into a serious expression. It was time to address the matter of the opponents that stood across her from her in a serious light.]

“So at Summer XXXTreme, it’s real simple: I’m going to make my way towards this championship match, toss Melissa, Kayla, and Kat into the pool, and walk out of the Sun Princess champion once again. It’s been awhile since I last had gold around this waist at Summer XXXTreme, that’s going to change next Sunday on that cruise ship when I become the new Bombshell Roulette Champion. So then, the question isn’t who’s going to let me, it’s who’s going to stop me.”

[Mercedes removes her hat, fluffs and straightens out her hair and offers an arrogant grin.]

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

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

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

***Fade***

Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 12 al 19 de junio de 2022

What a difference a month makes. Before I got on this winning streak I was struggling a bit, but I never gave up. As the saying goes, you win more from losses than victories. Better days should be just around the corner, if only because it's not like things can get much worse. Then I got better. I beat Ms. Jon at Into the Void. I beat Alicia Lukas two weeks ago at Climax Control. And now more than ever it’s important that I keep my foot on the gas pedal because looking ahead to this week, I’ve got another dragon to slay in Seleana Zdunich.

Yes, that Seleana Zdunich.

The Black Cat.

The bane of my existence in Sin City Wrestling, if my win-loss record against her is anything to go by, which nine times out of ten, it often does. So now we meet for the third time this year. The fact that Seleana failed to win the Bombshell Roulette Championship from Kat Jones three weeks ago left a nasty taste in her mouth - not that anyone doubted Kat would lose this early her reign when she just won the thing - so I’m pretty sure I’m getting a very motivated opponent this weekend. I know what she can do and I know she’s not above doing what needs to be done, and it’s my job to do everything in my power to stop her and leave her with an even more sour taste in her mouth.

On paper, this is a match I would win many times over. On paper, Seleana couldn’t even lace up my boots. On paper, Climax Control would have one less match on the card because, let’s be honest, a woman of my talent has no business sharing the ring much less breathing the same air as Seleana. This isn’t a contest. Certainly not a close one.

But last I checked, matches are decided in the ring, and the results against Seleana haven’t gone in my favor. That’s something I’m about to change this weekend in gaining momentum for the Ultimate X Over the Pool match for the Bombshell Roulette Championship at Summer XXXTreme next month. An opportunity I did in fact earn by beating a three-time World Bombshell Champion. Though what kind of person would I be if I didn't give Alicia Lukas the credit she deserves? She gave it her all, she took me to my very limit, and who knows? Maybe she would added another win to her record. I made sure that didn’t happen.

But let’s get this back to where it should be.

Depending on who you are, most people actually like Seleana Zdunich and have nothing but respect for her and she’s seen as one of the most underrated talents here, despite the fact she is a former World Bombshell and Bombshell Roulette Champion - your miles may vary on how she won the World Bombshell Championship and was given an opportunity at the Bombshell Roulette Championship, but history won’t remember those details because her name is in the history books. I’ve learned to never be jealous or envious of someone else’s success or accomplishments. It creates roadblocks in your mind, your heart, your work ethic, and your dreams.

Of course, I’ve had the far longer and more decorated career, but let’s not ruin a good thing. The difference here is there’s nothing Seleana’s done that I have a reason to be jealous nor could she accomplish even a third of what I've done in my career.

But Seleana also has courage that no other woman has. The fact that she has to live life week after week, month after month, day after day with someone as self-centered as Crystal Zdunich is a fate I wouldn’t wish on anybody. Well, that, and being the third wheel in her relationship - but that’s none of my business.

That aside, Seleana means well. She’s a marginal talent in SCW who has separated herself from the fringes of the women’s division and has just enough skill to avoid sitting backstage at catering every week.

One thing is for sure, two things are for certain, and I mean this with so much emphasis, I’m coming to Climax Control to humiliate Seleana Zdunich. I’m coming to put that winning streak she has over me on hold. That’s for damn sure. By now she knows what I’m all about. I don’t mess around when it comes to the ring. I’m all go, all the time. And in the event she’s probably reading this now, just because I know she’s likely to have something to say about it, I want Crystal to pay close attention. Because what I did to Alicia is small potatoes to what Seleana will be in for.

She’s got the best of me for far too long. Sunday is a new day, it’s a new fight, and one that I will 100% be ready for. Seleana Zdunich can count on that.

 


”It’s the worst feeling in the world. You know you have a match won, you have your opponent right where you want them. And suddenly, just like that, defeat from the jaws of victory.”

[Mercedes’ voice speaks via voice-over, removed from the moments shown the world starting with her getting some light aerobics in at a gym, seen jumping rope. This is an exclusive interview for SCWrestling.net. The Hall of Famer is in a pensive mood as she wonders what could have been more than a month following that defeat to Zdunich in a triple threat match, which also included newcomer Ms. Jon in only her fifth match at the time. Perhaps more crushing: her loss to Seleana and Crystal three weeks later.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S:
“They say that familiarity breeds contempt, right. Am I pissed off? Yes. I know I’m better than Seleana Zdunich and there’s no excuse losing to her. None. I’m better than that, I’m better than her, and I’m going to prove that come Sunday.”

[Mercedes moves on to doing lifting exercises. She’s crushing some kettlebell raises.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S:
“I don’t think anyone works harder than me. I’m one of the hardest working women out here. I’m working two brands. Tell me what other woman has done that? I took Winter Elemental under my wing and she’s now thriving in Sin City Underground as a two-time singles champion and the current Combat Champion about to reach 100 days in a few days.

“I can’t afford to sleep. I’ll sleep when I’m dead. Right now, mama’s got to work.”

[Mercedes is putting the work in on a exercise bike, towel draped around her neck, tunes in her ears from earbuds dialed into her favorite music from an iPod.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
“How did it feel to finally beat Alicia Lukas for the first time in SCW? Like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders! I can die happy now.

“Any doubts anyone has about my competitive drive before Climax Control this weekend will have their answer. I’m coming for the throat and after the night, my boot will be on Seleana’s throat. I finally feel like I’m getting where I’m supposed to be. I’ve been here nine years. No one ever thought they’d see me last nine days much less nine months.

“I wasn’t born to fight. Wrestling wasn’t in my blood. I wasn’t lucky enough to be a second-gen or third-gen star. But to be known as the most decorated talent in the company as well as an entire division? Never saw that coming. Not me, not anyone.

“There isn’t a woman alive on this roster who can stop me from getting what I want. You see me as overrated, I see it as the result of hard work, dedication, and passion. People still question my desire these days between the ropes, say I should retire. I'm not dead yet. Those bitches aren't THAT lucky.

“And yet… here we are. The arrogant Latina from Buenos Aires with the feisty attitude and the stubbornness of a mule being the most celebrated talents in the company… rewriting the history books and making moments each and every night… winning championships… earning the respect and admiration by everyone who believes in me, and the hate and disgust of those who don’t. And that’s just all under a decade, kids.”
 
[Mercedes is seen now outdoors. She’s in a yoga pose, eyes closed.]

M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S:
“Está enfadada? Bien. Ella va necesitar. Ella va a patearte trasero, que es incluso mejor. Porque adivina que, voy a patearte el trasero también. Y hay dos cosas que puede hacer al respecto, nada y le gusta.

[“She's angry? Good. She's going to need it. She's going to kick my ass, that's even better. Guess what? I'm going to kick her ass too. And there’s two things she can do about it, nothing and like it.]

“Seleana picked a bad night to have me across the ring from her at Climax Control because she’s going to be in for a long night. She’s not getting one over me again so she better hope and pray that she brings her best because she’s about to know the difference between reality and fantasy. The reality is I’m going to beat her ass. The fantasy is she thought she had a choice in the matter.

“I don’t need to get ready, I stay ready.”

“If The Black Cat wants to play, we’ll play.

“Ready or not, here I come.”

 

[Everybody loves singing along with their favorite songs, especially on the morning commute. Scene opens on Mercedes Vargas and her friends driving in Ricardo’s car. Ricardo and Mercedes are in the front row, Irma, Hugo and Tomas are in the back. Sharing the road with your fellow motorists is  a right of passage, but what was more punishing than the occasional obscenities most common with road rage was the in-car concert going on in a typical sports car  convertible that wasn’t the usual black or white but a rather pretty shade of orange.

Disney songs, show tunes, and the occasional Taylor Swift number were popular, even if the misheard song lyrics were better than the actual words. Thomas spoke more than he sung; Irma screamed her way through “Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson; Ricardo, Hugo, and Tomas bob their heads in unison to the song "What Is Love" by Haddaway, and Mercedes belts Whitney Houston’s greatest hits off key at one of the longer stoplights while a soccer mom next to them in a minivan helplessly stare.

Nothing beat out the duet songs from Grease.]

Ricardo: Let’s play a game.

Mercedes: OK.

Irma: What kind of game?

Ricardo: Mind Meld. You ever play Mind Meld?

Hugo: You count to three, you both say a word. 

Mercedes: Then we have to say what the two words have in common. Sounds like fun.

[Ricardo and Mercedes start off the game for their team, and neither are off to a good start in the early going. Hugo and Irma give it a go and they too are off to a rough start.]

Ricardo: One


Mercedes: Two


Ricardo and Mercedes: Three!


Ricardo (at the same time as Mercedes): France

Mercedes (at the same time as Ricardo): Monument



Hugo: One


Irma: Two


Hugo and Irma: Three!


Hugo (at the same time as Irma): Eiffel Tower


Irma (at the same time as Hugo): Eiffel Tower

[Hugo and Irma celebrate with high-fives. They go again.]

Irma: One


Hugo: Two


Irma and Hugo: Three!


Irma (at the same time as Hugo): Dollar!


Hugo (at the same time as Irma): Penny!

Mercedes: One


Ricardo: Two


Mercedes and Ricardo: Three!


Mercedes (at the same time as Ricardo): Money
!

Ricardo (at the same time as Mercedes): Money!

Tomas: One
 

Irma: Two


Tomas and Irma: Three!


Tomas (at the same time as Irma): Hammer!


Irma (at the same time as Tomas): Nail!

Mercedes: One

Hugo: Two

Mercedes and Hugo: Three!


Mercedes (at the same time as Hugo): Tools
!

Hugo (at the same time as Mercedes): Tools!

[Nothing beats the morning commute, where bad driving, stress levels, and questionable decisions rule the day. Music soothes the soul, but not everyone should be making a joyful noise.

Mercedes and friends singing Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline” as our scene fades.]

 

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

[REC•]

[Open on Mercedes Vargas sitting pretty on the steps of Micheltorena Stairs in Los Angeles. Rhe Argentine is dressed in a blouse paired with bootcut jeans, black boots and wearing a bucket hat. The camera pans on the Hall of Famer looking inside a near-empty bag of Frito-Lay potato chips, though the disappointment remains on her face: it was the last chip in the bag. As if on cue, she daintily eats the chip and places the bag next to her before turning to towards the camera.]

“We’re living in interesting times. Amber Ryan got put on the shelf, the Gemstones are about to be cancelled, Chloe Benton just wants to sign her deathwish wanting to face Masque de Lune and, I don’t know if you guys heard, but the match is on. At Summer XXXTreme X, three weeks from Sunday, it’s Crystal Zdunich vs Seleana Zdunich! I don’€™t remember how we got here. I vaguely remember who said what when. But this is the match we didn’t know we needed. Sound like fun? For the fans, maybe. I bet everyone is dying to find out if Crystal is going to be lying down for Seleana, or will Seleana be lying down for Crystal? We get enough of this intrigue whenever Roxi and Keira face off.”

[Be that as it may, these matches rarely happened, so a match between Crystal and Seleana made this must-see TV. It could end up as a classic or a train wreck. Either way, Mercedes was all for it. But that was in three weeks. Right now, it was Mercedes and Seleana on Sunday.]

“You can’t talk about Seleana without mentioning Crystal. You can’t talk about Crystal without mentioning Seleana. They’re inseparable. And it’s that reason alone why people enjoy trashing either of them at any given time at any given show for any given reason. Like the fact that Seleana has already had three title matches this year - more than anybody on the current roster - and won a grand total of never.

“And yes, Seleana, seems like the joke is on you - again. I can now laugh to my heart’s content since you walked away from your match with Kat Jones with nothing to show for it.

“Just another reminder why there are disappointments in life and then there’s you and your family. You only need have to look at Brayden and Brittany to prove my point.”

[Mercedes smiles despite herself. She was always told never kick a person while they were down, but for Seleana she would make this exception.]

“You know, last time we faced each other, you defined what a legend was and I found that interesting. That’s funny you say that, Sel, because I can think of a few legends here in Sin City Wrestling. Crystal Zdunich is a legend. She also happens to be a Hall of Famer, and deservingly so. Do you think your wife is a shadow of what she used to be? Would you say that to her face, hmm? You know another legend that comes to mind? Roxi Johnson, also a Hall of Famer. You think maybe she’s lost a step or two? You think there’s doubts that she used to be good? To hear her tell it, she’s beat your ass in every match you two have been in rather convincingly - singles, tag team, multiwoman. I don’t think she’s lost a step at all. What about every woman in the Hall of Fame? Would you call them out for a match? Like yours truly, they also have talent, longevity, influence, and I can guarantee they would use your face to mop the canvas with your tears.”

[Maybe Seleana would stand a chance, but Mercedes knew it would be a minuscule one.]

“There’s a lot of things I could call you. Rude, stubborn, delusional, clueless, but a legend isn’t one of them. What would you know about being a legend anyway? The word shouldn’t even come out of your mealy mouth. What, because you’re married to one, is that it? Unlike your wife, you haven’t even begun to scratch the surface, Seleana, and at this stage of your career and with your Bombshell Roulette Championship reign as proof that this is as far as you’re going to go in this company, I highly doubt you will. Don’t fool yourself by trying way too hard to be something you’re not or ever will be.”

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

“It took the two of you to get your only Bombshell Championship reign. It took the two of you to arrange a Bombshell Roulette Championship match in the main event you fluked your way into winning. And yet the two of you aren’t even close to being half the woman I am. Here’s the thing. You and Crystal can bicker and fight and kiss and makeup all you want, but being a legend isn’t sexually transmitted. You have to work hard for that.”

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

“When I say I am the most decorated woman in SCW, that’s not a misquote or something I pulled from thin air, there’s no hype surrounding it. You don’t have to wonder if my title reigns are a figment of my imagination. The legends I share the Hall of Fame with, none of them have put in the work I have. I’m not hiding behind a legacy, mamita. I’m leaving behind a legacy. A legacy that was built before you got here and I know, without a doubt, will be remembered long after you’re gone, because my name is Mercedes Vargas and my legacy will never be tarnished, especially by someone like you.”

[She points at the camera.]

“You’ve beaten me twice this year, once in a triple threat, once in a tag match. The third time won’t be the charm. Just like I did to Alicia two weeks ago, your name, Seleana, will be on my checklist. In this case, it’s been a long time coming since I ruined your pay-per-view debut. You can only be lucky for so long.”

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

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

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

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

***Fade***

Present Day ♦ L E F K A D A, G R E E C E

[REC•]

[Open on an pool deck with a picturesque setting near Lefkada, Greece. Mercedes Vargas walks into frame seen dressed in bootcut jeans and an SCW t-shirt. Her brunette hair sways in the warm summer breeze. All was silent except for the whistling of the wind. Mercedes turns towards the camera. Her face seems relaxed, but you could still see the faint outline of wrinkles around her eyes—eyes which seemed to sparkle ever so slightly despite the glorious views of the villa. The sunset alone would make this view more vivid.

She’s trying very hard to mask her emotions by smiling, but the lips don't lie. Mercedes is certainly not in a very good state of mind. Raking her hand through her hair, she barely makes eye contact at the camera lens before she began to speak.]

“I've had a lot on my mind, my thoughts run deep and my emotions run hot. With everything that's been happening lately, you sometimes forget that there’s a pay-per-view just around the corner. After being unable to travel outside of the US since the start of the pandemic, SCW has finally been able to continue touring internationally and paid its first visit to Europe since restrictions were eased. Some are happy about it, some not. Some already are homesick. Sure, there are a lot of must-see matches to look forward to at Into the Void but, again, it kinda takes a backseat to the passing of The Fallen a week ago or so. I don’t think anyone saw that coming.

“After what happened to me at the go-home show in Lesbos, I don’t think anyone saw that coming either. It made it difficult to even start this video submission but it has to be done.”

[She slowly nods. At the end of day, there was still a show to run and the Bombshells occupied a lot of the matches on the main card, including the co-main event. And when the Bombshells have the spotlight, they delivered. This upcoming show would be no different.

Mercedes opens up her smartphone, begins to play a clip from Climax Control. Sound up. It’s the last moments of the Anything Goes tag match, the winners long since decided as Crystal and Seleana Zdunich were long gone celebrating their win. Mercedes is seen perched on Ms. Jon’s shoulders. Jon’s manager flushed with anger on his face after being kicked between his legs by Mercedes very hard. He appeared to be in wrenching pain for several minutes before he gave his client his marching orders. Mercedes is then lifted on Ms. Jon’s shoulders and promptly slammed down back-first off the stage.

Mercedes closes the video, having seen enough. She was very close to throwing her phone in the pool but thought against it.]

“I watched this video some 30 times, every day, this entire week, since the go-home show. Right now, I just want to hurt somebody, anybody, who came up to me. Martin Howe III should be thanking his lucky stars that he ran off when he did because the only reason he’s still around is by the grace of God and because I’m a nice girl. Maybe not all the time, but most of the time.

“I’ll say this much, I know who I’m getting in the ring with, I just don’t know who I’m going to address this to. I guess since Martin does all of Ms. Jon’s talking for her, it would make sense, wouldn’t it? In fact, it's the one thing that I've been focused on all week.”

[Mercedes lowers her eyes, shaking her head. She blinks a few times before taking a deep breath. She kept her tone even, controlled]

“In the triple threat match with Seleana, Ms. Jon disrespected me. At the next show the following week, she humiliated me and cost me by number one contender’s match. At the go-home show, she nearly ended my career. Well, I’m here to tell you that Ms. Jon wasn’t the first and she won’t be the last.

So what am I going to do to walk out of Athens?

Whatever I have to.

Whatever it takes.

Whatever is necessary within the rules to keep her down for three seconds, make her tap or knock her the hell out! Ms. Jon is intimidating as any woman in the division. Unless your name is Tempest, you don’t stand a chance. Thing is, in an Anything Goes Street Fight, they ARE no rules. I’ve never lost a street fight in SCW yet and I’m not about to start now.

“You want to get down and dirty, mamita? Fine by me. Anything goes, and it will. No count outs, no disqualifications, and no one to help you. No matter how that match ends, I'm heading into the next supercard on a mission. Because when I'm 100 percent focused on my goal, there isn't anything that's going to get in my way from achieving it. In less than two weeks, that goal is getting my revenge on Ms
Jon for what she did to me, and there's no better way than doing that than by taking the fight to her.

“SCW seem to think Ms. Jon is something special and I must have come a long way to get a Street Fight with Ms. Jon. This pay-per-view has everything riding on it, neither of us have won a match in a while. I plan to change that come next Sunday because I’m not leaving Into the Void without a win, not after she nearly costed me everything I worked for over the last nine years in SCW.

“Those fans are not going to remember me as the Hall of Famer who got powerbombed off a stage. I won’t be remembered as the woman being rolled out on a stretcher. I won’t be remembered as the woman spending days in the hospital, oh no. They say you reap what you sow? Forget that!”

[Mercedes slowly shakes her head in the negative. By now, her voice matches her emotions.]

“I DON’T SOW, I REAP! AND I’M GOING TO BE WEARING BLACK FOR A REASON! YOU'RE GOING TO PAY FOR WHAT YOU DID TO ME. SO HELP ME GOD, YOU'RE GOING TO PAY FOR THIS. YOU'RE GOING TO RUE THE DAY THAT THOUGHT EVER CROSSED YOUR MIND ON MAY 1ST, ESTUPIDA PINCHE MUTA GORDA PERRA!

I’M GOING TO REMEMBER THIS NIGHT AND IM GOING TO BEAT YOUR ASS SO YOU REMEMBER IT TOO. BECAUSE IF YOU THINK YOU’RE LEAVING ATHENS AT MY EXPENSE, YOU PICKED THE WRONG LATINA TO FUCK WITH!

[Mercedes takes another deep breath, then slowly pulls off her reading glasses and sets this on the coffee table without so much taking her eyes off the camera lens.]

“So, Ms. Jon, you best bring your A-game. And Martin? If you think you’re going to put your hands on me again, you have no idea what you're in for, buddy.

“Read my lips, write it down, get it notarized – I’m walking out of this match with my head held high, my hand raised in victory and my unpinned streak at Into the Void intact. And the best part is that it's going to be in front of a worldwide audience.

In less than two weeks, I've got my date with destiny. And something tells me Ms. Jon isn't going to like this date very much.”

[With less than two weeks until Mercedes Vargas graces the stage at Into the Void, and perhaps maybe leaving this pay-per-view event with a win, Vargas stands to her feet, the sun casts an orange haze below the horizon now.]

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

***Fade***

Present Day ♦ G R E E C E

[REC•]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Mercedes starts counting on her fingers to illustrate.]

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

[Mercedes holds up her hands innocently.]

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

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

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

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

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

[Mercedes points at herself.]

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

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

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

***Fade***