The sun is bright. 68 degrees, and barely a cloud in the sky. He’s here a few days in advance of the 2nd round of the 2017 Blast For The Past. Max Burke, clad in a pair of dark wash jeans, white dress shirt, slim back tie loose around his neck, leather jacket and vintage Ray Bans is out for a stroll on the Philadelphia waterfront. The air is brisk, but the day is beautiful.

Burke: Philadelphia.

He inhales deeply, filling his lungs with the brisk air. He slides the hair band off his wrist, and ties his hair up.

Burke: The real fighting capital of the good old U S of A.

The bricks of the historic Philadelphia buildings reflect in the lens of his sunglasses.

Burke: The history of this city is etched in every brick. It is ground into every wrestling mat, and boxing canvas.

Max strokes his beard, and takes in another deep breath. The brisk air is invigorating today. You can hear the passion in his voice as he speaks. No matter what you think of his tactics, no one can deny Max Burke’s passion for wrestling, and for that matter the sport of fighting overall.

Burke: This is my kind of city. This is a home away from home for me. The grittiness of this city is what continues to draw me back.

Max unscrews the top from his bottle, and takes a sip of water before continuing on.

Burke: The blood, sweat, and tears that have been shed in this city is what defines it.

Max stops for a minute to soak in the scenery of the waterfront. In the distance, the Ben Franklin Bridge shines in the sunlight.

Burke: In Philly... this is where you work. This is not a city for the weak. Iron will is what is needed to survive, and thrive in the TRUE gyms of Philly.

You can see behind the lenses that Max is reflecting on his many visits to the gyms that he speaks of right now. A tiny smirk sneaks into the corners of his mouth as he is reminded of the torture that he went through inside of those brick dungeons that are playfully called gyms.

Burke: The knowledge that has been passed over decades is unquestionable. If you are a professional fighter, Philadelphia is where you come to earn the respect of your peers, and your mentors. You will bend. You will break. You will sweat. You will swear. You will bleed. You will learn.

<HR></HR>



Max lets out a half grunt, and half yell as he drills the heavy bag with a leg kick. His training partner grips the bag tightly as Max he connects a second time.

Burke: AH!

Tom: AGAIN!

Max obliges with another stiff kick.

Tom: ELBOW!

Max spins, and connects with the point of his elbow.

Tom: KNEES!

Burke: AH!

Max grabs the bag as instructed, and unloads several knees.

Tom: Good. Grab some water.

Burke: Thanks.

Max grabs the velcro with his teeth, and slips the glove off. He grabs his water bottle, and takes long drink from it. He picks up his towel, and quickly swipes the sweat from his brow.

Burke: You’re a good man Tommy. Thanks for taking some time out today.

Tom: You know you always have a place here bud. We’ll put you through the grind any time you’re in town.

They both chuckle as Max tosses the sweaty towel at Tom.

Burke: The way it should be. I wish she’d get here already.
Tom: The one from the office?

Burke: Yeah. Mark said he sending over Rocky to plug Sunday’s show. Going to throw it up on the social media sites.

Tom: Jet black hair, and uhhh....

Max turns around, and knows from the look on Tom’s face that Ms. Rocky Mountains has just walked in the door of the gym. Chasing closely behind is an SCW camera operator.

Burke: Ms. Rocky Mountains, let me introduce you to my good friend, Tom.

Tom reaches out his hand, and takes Rocky’s. He gives it a peck.

Tom: Pleasure ma’am.

Rocky winks at him.

Ms. Rocky Mountains: Nice. Very nice.

Tom sheepishly grins at Rocky.

Ms. Rocky Mountains: Very nice setup you have here Tom. Rugged, not flashy like all of these new... facilities. They seem to POP UP everywhere.

Tom coughs nervously, and turns away.

Tom: I’ll uh... let you a... get comfortable. Feel free to stay as long as you need.

Ms. Rocky Mountains: Thank you for your hospitality Tom. How about we step up over there where the championship belts are on the wall?



Ms. Rocky Mountains: Yes, that will work. Max, pleasure as always.

The camera operator quickly unpacks his gear and sets up the frame for the interview. Max, Tom and Rocky continue with some small talk while he sets up. It only takes a couple of minutes, and Rocky is ready to go. She pins a lapel microphone on the edge of the opening of her button up blouse that is overflowing because of her “assets”. Max has wiped off the sweat, and quickly gotten dressed again. His eyes hidden by his Ray Bans.

<HR></HR>

Ms. Rocky Mountains: Sin City Wrestling, thank you for joining me for this web exclusive with Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree, the man that made his return for the 2017 Blast For The Past tournament. The former Roulette Champion... Max Burke. Max, thank you for giving me this time today.

Max turns ever so slightly towards Rocky. He leans in. In a soft voice...

Burke: Pleasure is yours, Rocky. My time is valuable. I beg of you, do not waste it here today.

Rocky glares at Max. She adjusts herself, and leans in towards Max.

Ms. Rocky Mountains: No sir, the pleasure is yours. Max, the best way that I can think of to commence this interview is with a simple question. Why?

Max leans back. He clears his throat. He raises his finger to his lips, and taps them for a moment.

Burke: Why? * he shakes his finger in Rocky’s direction * What kind of open-ended... nonsensical question is that? You call yourself an interviewer? Elaborate miss.

A devilish smile appears. She licks her lips. She pauses for a moment, contemplating her next choice of words.

Ms. Rocky Mountains: Why now? What prompted your return to Sin City Wrestling?

Burke: Pay attention dear. Very close attention.

Ms. Rocky Mountains: Yes. Of course, Max.

Max slips the Ray Bans from his eyes. He folds them gently, slipping them into his breast pocket. He runs his fingers through his hair. He slides an inch or so closer to Rocky. He leans in towards her again. His voice does not raise, it is still almost a whisper. Cool... unwavering. Max speaks again.

Burke: I’m only here because Sin City Wrestling has asked me to do this. I told you do not waste these precious moments. Dear, once again your questioning is inadequate. Try again.

She laughs, and slides herself even closer to Max. The two are almost touching now. The chess game between them has begun.

Ms. Rocky Mountains: Why after 3 years have you returned to Sin City Wrestling? Where have you been?

Burke: Deary. This is not working out well for you today. Let’s do this. How about this? Close your eyes. Pucker your lips, and... keep them shut while I educate you here today. You’re struggling, and I can now clearly see that I will be conducting this interview myself.

Ms. Rocky Mountains: *sighs*

Burke: Sssh. It’s ok. Just listen.

Ms. Rocky Mountains: Go on Mr. Burke.

Burke: There you go. 2 weeks ago, I returned to the squared circle after 3 long years away. Those years ate at the deepest part of my soul. I struggled to find myself outside of those ropes. It is none of your concern of my actual whereabouts. I’ve been everywhere deary. What matters is this. When I stepped between those ropes 2 weeks ago, everything became right in the world. I returned to my home. I returned to where my most splendid memories occurred. Memories such as staring down into the eyes of a withered, and wilted Orchid. The memory of running my fingers through the crimson blood of a fallen, defeated Alex Grayson. His foolish persistence was his downfall. The so-called... self proclaimed “king” perished before me. The memories of taking Andrew Garcia under my wing in Hotstuff Inc. and moulding him into the wrecking machine that he has become today. That’s right Ivan, your boy wasn’t only the star pupil of Casey Williams. He was also the young boy of Hotstuff Inc. Under our tutelage, he became a monster, and I have the utmost respect of the journey he has been on... and will continue upon his return. However, you are not Mr. Garcia. You are not Casey. You are nobody to me.

Ms. Rocky Mountains: Harsh words, Ma...

Max cuts her off abruptly. Rocky is taken aback. She motions for Max to continue.

Burke: HUSH! Keep those luscious lips of yours sealed if you will Ms. Mountains. I was not finished. Ivan Darrell, this is strictly business. In this business, I am the President, and CEO. Nobody can touch me on the mic. Nobody can hang with me in the ring. Move for move I am the best at what I do. Nobody compares to me. Look at my body of work. Look at what I do in, and outside of that ring. I do not give a damn who I offend. I do what I do, and I do it exceptionally well.

Ms. Rocky Mountains: Mr. Burke, may I...

Burke: No, you may not. Does this make me a bad person? Look at you. Are you such a good person? Look who your mentor is. He earned that nickname for a reason. Just like Casey, I will continue to do whatever it takes to further myself and Mercedes Vargas in the 2017 Blast For The Past, and beyond.

Ms. Rocky Mountains: I...

Burke: I told you to sit there, and listen. It’s okay to look out for number one. Embrace it. Be bold. This is me. You need to make statements each, and every single time you step between those ropes. If you do not... what are you? What have you done? It pains me every so slightly that I have to make this statement this time around. Casey, and I have discussed this in length when I found out Ivan was unfortunately my next victim on this path. Respect is one thing. Respect is earned, and for Ivan he has not had that pleasure as of yet when it comes to me. Come Sunday Ivan, 1 of 2 things will happen. 1. You earn my respect just as your partner, and your mentor have. 2. You do not. If you do not, it will be an unfortunate turn of events for you. Either way Ivan, you are in for a long night of education between those ropes. Do you understand me? I know your mind is not completely focused on Blast For The Past. I know your partner is also not completely focused on Blast For The Past. The 2 of you know you were exceptionally lucky to make it out of the 1st round due to your lack of focus on the tournament. You realise this. You realise that neither of your hearts are 100% in this tournament. Amanda, she has one foot out the door. You... you want vengeance. You want vengeance for your friend, your partner... your husband. We are the last 2 people in this company that you want to lose focus against. We are already winning this mental battle. We will the war in the end. Think to yourself Ivan, just how well do you know your friend... your mentor? Think to yourself Ivan, just how well do you know... your lover? Ask yourself this question. Now that I have returned where do their loyalties lie? How strong is your bond with Casey?  Casey may be your mentor, but he is my friend... my brother in arms. All of these years have past, but who have I kept in touch with when it comes to this crazy game that we call professional wrestling? Ask yourself this. Is Sunday night another lesson? Yes. This lesson is unlike any you have ever encountered child. I will be your professor. Time to prove yourself one more time.

 Friday, November 28th. Max Burke’s hotel room. We find Max sitting on the couch. Sitting next to him is a young man with some Burke characteristics. He has a thin beard, and short brown hair. He has that familiar Burke set of eyes that cut through you.

Max: Tommy. See there?

There it is folks. Confirmation. This is Max Burke’s younger sibling of 2 years, Tommy. He leans ahead to get a closer look at the screen of his laptop. On the screen is a recent match of Tommy’s. The action is fast and furious, with a quick exchange of chain wrestling followed by a dropkick from Tommy.

Tommy: What?

Max: What? You’re rushing. That dropkick was sloppy as shit man.

Tommy huffs at Max under his breath.

Tommy: Hell no, it was not. It was on the damn button.

The signature arrogant smirk flashes on Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree’s face. He shakes his head quickly.

Max: Nope. You grazed him at best. Watch your pacing. Slow down a tad, and it’ll be perfect every single time. You have no excuse not to make that every damn time. You wanted my help. Friggin’ listen already.

Tommy gives his big brother a playful shove.

Tommy: Whatever. Sorry. Just frustrated. You know the pressure.

Max: Yeah, kid. I know. Pops, and the rest of ‘em don’t mess around. You, and I are the new breed of the bloodline. It’s time for you to step up. I’ve got you in the door. Now, it’s time to carry on with what I started.

Tommy: Thanks, by the way. I’m glad you got that call from Dixon. You sure about this color gig?

Max: Yeah. It’s time. Docs say it’s cool to do the one off for SCW at 100, but they don’t want me back on the road fulltime with the neck. Hopefully, it’ll keep the ol’ knife a few years away. I’m magic on that mic. Kenny needs me. Every good play by play guy needs a thorn in his side.

Tommy: Born to do that job. I’m looking forward to that.

Max: Ditto. We’ll give’r one last hurrah in Sin City Wrestling. Lace ‘em up one more time. Nothing like that good ol’ nostalgia kick on a big show. 100 episodes is a huge deal. Not many places survive, let alone thrive... and grow these days. The fact that ASW is a reality is amazing. I’m looking forward to enlightening people with my expertise of this industry. I show them one more time at Climax Control that Max Burke is a different breed, then the real work begins in ASW. You know it ain’t a catchphrase for us. The Burkes... we’re born to wrestle. Bred to win. It’s your time kid.

 It's Friday afternoon, two days away from Climax Control and Max Burke has arrived in Morocco with Duke. Max and Duke have decided to make their way over to Club Theatro to scope out the atmosphere before entering the ring against Guns For Hire. Upon entering Theatro, the uniqueness of this club blasts you in the face straight out of the gate. It is quite impressive to say the least, and will make quite the backdrop for Sin City Wrestling’s first stop on the African tour.

Burke: I cannot believe the amount of disrespect I get each and every time I step into this Sin City Wrestling ring. When a wrestler of my ability steps into that ring... I deserve your respect.
I told you... didn't I? I warned you all that I was bringing a weapon of mass destruction. I dropped hints left and right, but none of you inbred morons could figure it out. I brought him back, and unleashed the beast. We will beat the respect that we deserve out of each and every member of this company until we get what we want... when we want it.

The SCW crew is hard at work, prepping the staging for Climax Control. Max and Duke make their way over to the center of the club to take in the atmosphere. Max makes his way up the ring steps, and steps between the ropes. Duke circles the ring, getting familiar with the environment.

Burke: You see, it's very simple. It's all part of our grand scheme. You're not smart enough to see it yet, but pieces keeping coming together week in, and week out. Everyone is so anxious to find out what is exactly happening with Hot Stuff Mark Ward, Max Burke, Andrew Garcia, Casey Williams, and big bad Duke Ata Tupoi. But, here's the thing. You're just not ready yet folks. You can't even fathom what we have in store for each and every one of you. We are always three steps ahead. We're always going to leave you begging, and pleading for more. When we say you're ready... then, and only then will we truly reveal the full glory of our partnership. As these weeks pass our ranks will grow in numbers. Oh yes, we are not done yet. Not by a long shot. It is time that Sin City Wrestling takes things to a whole other level.

Burke leans against the ropes, testing the spring. Satisfied, he rests against them confidently with a smug look on his face.

Burke: I am surrounding myself with individuals with very specific abilities that enhance everything that we are working towards. Let's look at Blaze Of Glory III. Yes, I had a contract to face off against Landon Axel that evening. However, we had bigger plans for this evening. What better way for us to unveil the return of the freak that is Duke Ata Tupoi than to have him get reacquainted with an old running mate from Atlantic Championship Wrestling? I thought it was brilliant when he suggested paying Landon a visit. You see Duke isn't just a massive, mean brute of a man. Oh no! Quite the contrary actually. Duke Ata Tupoi is the total package. Brains... and brawn my friends. He wanted to make a statement. This was all Duke. He went out there with the showmanship of the tribe, and then absolutely destroyed Landon Axel. My mercenary had Landon Axel stretchered out of the building that night. The big man made his point at Blaze. And, it was clear. Duke is back, and will nuke everything that gets in the way of our objective.

Burke lifts himself up onto the top turnbuckle, and takes a seat. He peers down at Duke, and simply smiles at his most recent addition.

Burke: This week at Climax Control, we step into this ring against not only Landon Axel but also Ethan Brody. The Guns For Hire have been impressive during their tenure here in Sin City Wrestling. They are without a doubt a formidable team when they are at one hundred percent mentally, and physically. We all know that this is clearly not the case coming into this week’s Climax Control. Far from it. These two men have been beaten down over the past couple of weeks. They are wounded. Look at him!

Burke whips the camera around to Duke, who continues to pace around the ring.

Burke: Look at him. That... that is a caged beast. That is a caged beast that at my command will be unleashed. That beast... he can smell fear. That beast... can smell blood. Look at him. Look closely. Look into his eyes. He’s ready. He’s impatient. He’s pissed off. When I unleash him fully at Climax Control... I won’t be able to control him. I’m going to open that cage door, and let him free. He’s going to go after the scraps like a vulture, shredding the Guns until they are a bloody, lifeless carcass in the center of this ring. You thought he made a statement at Blaze Of Glory? Wait until you see what he does this Sunday.

 Blast From The Past II - Quarterfinals are set. Max Burke, and Orchid are coming off a huge win over  “Big Tiger” Jeremiah Hardin and “The Bitch of Hardcore” Jade Manedez-Arcador. Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree, and your hero Max Burke was able to take out his frustration on Jeremiah Hardin by pummeling him from bell to bell up the ramp, and to the back. Orchid proved to be a worthy partner by taking out Jade Manendez-Arcador in impressive fashion.

---

Max Burke, the prodigal son of the Burke family legacy has been taking his game to a whole new level since his return to the ring at My Bloody Valentine. The focus, and determination radiates from Max Burke as he continues his journey to the Sin City Wrestling Heavyweight Champion. Max Burke is still petitioning on a daily basis to get his deserved one on one shot against Giani Di Luca for the Sin City Wrestling Heavyweight Championship. Much to his dismay, he has to step aside for the time being as Simon Jones gets his crack at Giani Di Luca. This has outraged Burke as he believes he proved without a shadow of a doubt at My Bloody Valentine that he has the tools to reign supreme in S.C.W. One way he has decided to up his game is by incorporating the talk of the world... DDPYoga. In just two months, Max Burke has realized a gain in strength, flexibility, and his cardio is through the f’n roof! Max Burke’s well oiled machine has turned into a picture of perfection.

DDP: LET’S DO IT! DROP IT INTO PLANK GUYS!



Max drops as instructed, and awaits his mentor’s instructions.

DDP: We’ve got three count push ups. Lower with control, and count it down.

Burke: THREE! TWO! ONE!

DDP: Hold it for three... two... one. Push with control! Bang it out!

Max pushes himself up until his arms are locked and shaking.

Burke: THREE! TWO! ONE!

DDP: And lower into safety zone! Great job guys! Grab some water! You earned it.

Max lowers to his knees, and pauses the DVD. He grabs a towel and wipes his brow. He takes a long haul off his water bottle, and turns to the cameraman that is recording his workout for the Sin City Wrestling website..

Burke: Sin City Wrestling... welcome to my gym. This is my torture on a daily basis, and it’s the best decision I ever made. That man is turning the pedigree into a cyborg. I’ve always been in decent shape... at least I thought I was until I started DDPYoga. This is yoga for real guys.That man on that television is adding years on to my career. You can’t truly appreciate the results until you experience it for yourself, but you’ve damn well scene it on your television screens week in and week out on Sin City Wrestling. I thought my cardio was top notch, until he opened my eyes to what I could become. My gas tank is a million times better thanks to that man. Hell, I could do an hour... probably two in that ring now with ease like the oldtimers used to do. That man is molding me into the true champion that I will become. I will be the most dominant force in the history of this business thanks to that man right there.

Burke unpauses the DVD, and gets back to his feet as instructed.

DDP: Here we go. Ignition. Lock it in guys! It’s all about Dynamic Resistance. Now, it’s time for my favorite move... Diamond Cutter. Let’s light up that lower back. Fingers spread wide. Lean it back.

Burke. BANG!!

DDP: Arms out to a T... and HULK IT OUT!!!!

Burke flexes as his muscle definition pops like never before.

Burke: I’ve got to admit, Blast From The Past II has definitely been full of twists so far. It was my lucky day in the opening round to once again dominate Jeremiah Hardin, and pound out my frustrations on that loser again. I proved once again that he can’t hang with the new and improved Max Burke. My damn knuckles were so sore from indenting them into his skull over and over again. The pain was worth it to hear him breaking under my pressure once again. I think I proved without a shadow of a doubt that Jeremiah Hardin is not on the same level. I showed the entire world that the day that we shall never speak of from this moment on was a complete and utter fluke thanks to the bumbling idiot Cyrus King. While I was busy dishin’ out head trauma to Hardin, my little ninja took care of business advancing us to the next round. Well done, Orchid.

Burke makes his way over to the kitchen. He heads to the fridge, and grabs his Brita jug from the refrigerator. He quickly fills up his water bottle, and places the Brita jug back. Max screws the top back on his water bottle. He tosses the bottle back, and takes another long drink. He wipes his mouth with a towel, and tosses the towel aside.

Burke: The twists kept coming on Monday when I got a text from Mark about the pairings for the quarterfinals. I have to admit, it made my day. Orchid and I will be facing off against Song, and Ben Jordan. How’s that for a twist? I can’t wait to see Sin City Wrestling’s femme fatale ninjas square off for ultimate bragging rights. That’s not the best part of this little matchup though. The reason I am grinning from ear to ear is easy to see even if you’re Stevie Wonder. Two words... Ben Jordan. I finally get my hands on the Cockney King. A lot of people don’t know this, but I’ve had my eye on Mr. Jordan for a LONG time. His little British invasion of MY territory started it all. He came in shaking hands and kissing babies. The Maritimers loved the young man... the flamboyant rookie from across the pond. They loved his charm. They loved his accent. He took the Maritimes by storm like he was the second coming of the friggin’ Beatles. While I was stuck toiling away with the dead weight that was Trevor Irons, and the rest of the Party Horde here was this damn foreigner reaping all the benefits and love from MY fans. Just as I was in the middle of contract negotiations to come home, and expose Ben Jordan... Dixon lost the promotion in a damn card game. Seriously? I’ve been waiting patiently. I’ve been buying my time. I’ve always had this confrontation in the back of my head. I’ve been looking forward to it for a very long time. I may not like his pandering to the fans, but I respect the guy for all he’s accomplished in a very short time. He’s a stud. There’s not denying that. He just needs an attitude adjustment. Hell, can you imagine the two of us on the same side instead of opposing corners? Max Burke, and Ben Jordan... your hero, and your king. Now THAT could be intriguing. Everyone knows that our match this Sunday is going to steal the show. It’s painfully obvious that it’s going to be a royal bitch for Giani and Simon to follow us. Sunday night at Climax Control the two brightest young stars to come along in this business for years square off for the very first time. Sunday night along with Orchid and Song we show the world that the future is bright for Sin City Wrestling... and the future is now. So, Ben Jordan you come to Climax Control with your A game... you’re going to need it. Pound for pound... move for move... we show the world Sunday night that we are the BEST that this business offers.

Max lifts his hand up holding his thumb and index finger slightly apart.

Burke: I look forward to showing you that I’m just THAT much better. You know, and the whole world knows why. Because, my name is Max Burke and I was born to wrestle... and bred to win. It’s in my blood.

 GRAVEYARD

The sun has set hours ago. A thick fog has settled throughout the night. It wraps around every tree, bush, blade of grass. The fog has engulfed the night sky, and everything in its path. We follow along a weathered cast iron fence that appears to stretch for miles until we come up on a rickety gate that swings loosely in the faint breeze echoing with creaks and groans from its rusted hinges. We are willed inside by an ominous mix of fear, and intrigue.

LIGHT BURST

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FLASHBACK - NOVEMBER 10, 2013 - THE NIGHT MAX LOSES ROULETTE CHAMPIONSHIP BECAUSE OF CYRUS KING BLUNDER!

Cyrus is back on his feet and is crouched down in the corner obviously setting up for a Spear on Hardin, he sees his opening and charges in…..but Hardin leapfrogs over the Spear attempt and Cyrus spears Max instead almost breaking the champion in half!

Simone: Max just got nailed by that spear!

Adams: Cyrus may have just cost his ally the Roulette Championship!

Cyrus’s eyes widen as he realizes what he has done and Hardin is quick to capitalize forcing Max to his feet and…..

Simone: Tiger’s Ambition! He just hit his finisher!

Adams: Do we have a new champion?!

Hardin drags Max to the center of the ring before pinning him and Cyrus reluctantly drops down to apply the count 1……2……3!!!!

Justin: Here’s your winner and NEEEEEEWWWWWW SCW ROULETTE CHAMPION “BIG TIGER” JEREMIAH HARDIN!

Simone: We have a new champion!

LIGHT BURST

---

GRAVEYARD

Row upon row of headstones flash past. The grave markers are of all shapes, sizes, and conditions. There are some you can tell that are freshly placed, and others that have weathered many seasons for century upon century. These headstones are in various stages of disrepair. The plots where the souls of generations lay are also in staggering conditions in some cases. It’s a shame when you look at the state of these plots that have been ignored for years. Forgotten souls that families have lost interest in visiting as the seasons change, and the years pass. The grass stretches high in the air, along with weeds that overtake the final resting places.

LIGHT BURST

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FLASHBACK - THE SAVIORS ARRIVE

The lights go out, evil laughter begins to fill the arena. Strobe lights slowly flash, and soon pick up intensity, between strobe flashes we notice druids surrounding the ring and eventually entering. Then the lights go pitch black.

Simone: I don’t like this....

The lights come back on and 3 druids stand in the middle of the ring looking over Max Burke who is laying in the middle of the ring. about a dozen other druids surround the ring.

Druid Leader: Behold, one of your so called superstars. He lays here in a heap of pain, a failure. This man is considered one of the best in Sin City, yet, he can't even hold his head up high after a match? Perhaps I can be of assistance....

The two other druids drag Max Burke to his feet

Leader: Here he stands, a legend in Sin City, you love him, you hate him, you're never going to see him again.

A hush falls over the crowd, some unsure what to think, others simply do not want to think of Sin City without Max Burke.

Leader: Do you appreciate this man? Do you appreciate the efforts of Max Burke to come out here week after week and showcase his talents for your enjoyment?

The crowd actually pops, a few chants of "Max Max Max" break out. The druids actually raise Burke's arms as he slowly comes to. When they did, a huge POP from the crowd roared out and followed by "MAX MAX MAX"

Leader: It's good you appreciate him, cheer him on, this man has given his heart and soul to Sin City, too bad it's time to take his body!

Without warning, the two druids smash Burke's torso with huge forearms and the druid leader hits a forearm smash to Burke's skull. Burke staggers backwards, the leader grabs him by the hair and with cat like reflexes, plants Burke to the mat with a devastating neckbreaker. The leader then directs the other two druids to grab Burke and stand him up again. This time he grabs Burke and plants him to the mat with a package piledriver. The fans are stunned, boos start to ring out, some fans actually start throwing trash. Max Burke lays motionless in the middle of the ring as the boos grow louder. The druid leader climbs onto a turnbuckle and sits atop it facing Max Burke's lifeless body in the ring.

Leader: We warned you for weeks to tread lightly, we warned you to watch your backs, we told you we're coming, well, we're almost here, this is just another warning, heed our words Sin City Wrestling, unite, rise up, send your best, because when we arrive, we will dominate any and all of you. Max Burke is a sacrifice, he's had a stellar career, yes we have done some history homework, and Max's contribution to our cause is necessary. Say goodbye to Max Burke, his time here is done, our time is coming. Heed the warning SCW, WE'RE COMING

The lights go out and strobes slowly illuminate the arena in long slow flashes. From what we can see, the druids outside the ring enter the ring and surround Max Burke's body, then slowly carry him out of the ring, when they exit the ring, the strobe lights flicker faster, as they carry Burke out of the arena, all but 3 druids disappear into the back, the three druids turn back and lock fists in sign of solidarity then the lights go out.

Crowd: BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO We want Max, We Want Max

Simone: I can not describe what I just saw, we will do our best to update you on Max Burke's condition folks.

LIGHT BURST

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FLASHBACK - MAX’S BURIAL

The Sin City Wrestling videotron lights up in a graveyard. 12 Druids can be seen carrying a body led by three druids, they stop in front of a headstone that reads "Here lies Max Burke"

Leader: A final resting place you must go, the shadows of yesterday are all you know, you gave your all and never feared, they took from you, your blood, sweat and tears. Your time has come, you must go home, your quiet soul can rest, never more to roam. Take heart my son, you did not go in vain, you've become a messenger, a messenger of pain. Pity you couldn't stay with us longer, but your pathetic weakness makes us stronger. Ashes to ashes, dust to dust, we hate to say goodbye, but we must......we MUST!

The druids drop Max Burke into the shallow grave then surround it.

LIGHT BURST

---

GRAVEYARD

We arrive at our final destination... our final resting place. There is a pile of dirt which is dusted with a thin layer of freshly fallen snow. There is a shovel jammed into the top of the pile that has seen its fair share of duty in this cemetery. As we take a step back more is revealed. The silhouette of a mysterious lady cloaked in black stands next to the pile. She grasps a bouquet of black roses in her hands with such force that droplets of her crimson blood trickles down her fingers from the thorns that pierce her skin. Finally, she slowly opens her hands, letting the roses cascade into the open grave. As the roses fall, a hand reaches up and plucks one out of the air. As we inch closer, the hand’s owner is revealed. The light dances across the face of the man. The shot flips quickly to the face of the headstone, and the words etched into it.

HERE LIES MAX BURKE...

Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree takes a moment to smell the proverbial roses... that have fallen onto his chest. His eyes are filled with a flood of emotions that flash between arrogance, hatred, determination, and... peace.

BURKE: Here lies Max Burke.

Max Burke sits up, and leans his back against the wall of the grave. He runs his fingers down the wall, letting the earth crumble between his fingers. He pulls a mound of dirt from his grave, and throws it across to the far side of the grave.

BURKE: Here lies Max Burke... no more.

Max lifts himself up slowly into a crouch. He pauses before continuing. A smirk creeps across his lips.

BURKE: The Saviors SAVED Max Burke. Scott, Jasper, and Katu opened the eyes of Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree. Scott, Jasper, and Katu... collectively known as The Saviors opened my eyes to the path that I was on... and the path that I should have been on. It was an awakening of biblical proportions. Those three individuals took it upon themselves to make a statement. They chose Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree... during a rare moment of weakness. Thanks to the misguided, and unwanted so called help from that ignoramus Cyrus King, I was defenseless against the unprovoked attack by The Saviors. These three stellar combatants triple teamed me like a pack of rabid wolves. They made their statement... yes... yes they did. They made their statement loud and clear on November the tenth. They did so with precision brutality, dumping me on my head and bringing me here to this resting place. They were successful at picking up the scraps left by Cyrus King’s blunder, and Jeremiah Hardin’s eventual stealing of MY Roulette Championship. They then took it upon themselves to have a makeshift funeral for the career of Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree, Max Burke. Unfortunately for The Saviors their little coup was short lived. Where are they now? I’ll tell you where. Far from anywhere that Sin City Wrestling is now that its prodigal son has returned with vengeance on his mind. They tucked their tails, and ran just as I knew they would. They came to the realization that that they had failed in their attempt to end MY career. It is without a doubt in my mind that word trickled back to Scott, Jasper, and Katu about my imminent return to the ranks of Sin City Wrestling. Those three gentlemen knew that their worlds were about to be turned upside down with the resurrection and return of Max Burke.

LIGHT BURST

---

FLASHBACK - HOSPITAL

BEEP... BEEP... BEEP... BEEP... BEEP...

Everyone knows the familiar sounds of a hospital room. The sounds of several pairs of shoes tap the floors in the busy hallway. Diagnostic machines spit out their familiar beeps as they monitor patients. Idle chatter bounce off the walls. We find ourselves in a stripped down hospital room. The walls... stark white. There’s a small night table with a box of Kleenex on it. A pale blue chair sits empty next to the cot, which is currently occupied by a resting Max Burke. He is unconscious, but restless. A tube is nestled in his nostrils providing extra oxygen to his lifeless body. The door to the room swings open. A disheveled Ruby makes her way through the door, and back to her spot in the pale blue chair next to Max’s side. Ruby doesn’t even look herself as she is suffering from a lack of sleep, copious amounts of caffeine, and worry is etched harshly upon her face which is apparent with the faint bags under her eyes. She is dressed  casually in a black zip up hoodie,and jeans with her hair pulled back in a ponytail. She takes a long sip from her black coffee, and interlaces her fingers once again with Max Burke. With the subtle touch of his lover’s skin, Max Burke stirs and slowly opens his eyes.

BURKE: Hey there.

Max forces himself to crack a smile, but squints his eyes tightly from the harshness of the lights in his room. He reaches up, and feels the tube in his nose. He slowly removes it, and rubs his nose.

RUBY: Hi there.

BURKE: How did I land here? What happened?

RUBY: Oh, well after that buffoon, Cyrus King speared you and Hardin stole your title because of it..

Ruby hesitates, questioning herself on how to properly form her next sentence.

BURKE: Well? There’s more isn’t there?

RUBY: The Saviors showed up. The three of those cowards jumped you like a pack of dogs fighting over a steak.

BURKE: I take it that is the reason for this blinding headache? I feel like I got hit by a bus. They did a number on me eh?

RUBY: That’s an understatement to say the least. They swarmed you and attacked so fast you had no chance. They hit you with a couple of solid shots to the back of your head. The ringleader of the Saviors then spiked you pretty good with a package piledriver. I thought he broke your neck!

BURKE: Yep, that explains the headache.

RUBY: That’s not all they did.

BURKE: Oh? Tell me everything. They will pay for this.

Ruby’s voice cracks as she continues. The hard outer shell that we are used to seeing with Ruby is slightly cracked.

RUBY: They buried you.

Max attempts to sit up in vain. He realizes this mistake, and lays back down. He decides to simply roll to his side instead to face the clearly upset Ruby.

BURKE: They what?
RUBY: They had to have been planning this. They tried to bury you. I ... I couldn’t believe it. They had to have known about this beforehand. They took you to a cemetery. Those bastards had a grave dug for you. There was even a headstone!

Max tries to calm Ruby with a squeeze of her hand. She begins to hyperventilate, but pulls herself together and continues.

BURKE: It’s okay. I’m fine. Little bump on the head isn’t going to stop the best in the business. Not the first time, and probably won’t be the last time I take some licks.

RUBY: Max... the headstone had your name on it. It said... here lies Max Burke. They had a damn headstone made for you. They were targeting you all along. It was sick. They dragged you through the rows of the graves to that fuckin’ grave they had dug especially for you. It was ready and waiting for you. They just tossed you in like you were nothing. I still can’t believe that it happened and...

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

An elderly gentleman walks in, clipboard in his hand. He holds a pencil in his mouth as he enters. Max’s doctor shows no sign of emotion as he makes his way over to Max’s bedside. The doctor slips his eyeglasses out of his jacket pocket, and puts them on. He extends his hand to Max.

BURKE: What’s up doc?

Max’s doctor smirks at the classic Bugs Bunny line, and just shakes his head.

DOCTOR: How are you feeling Mr. Burke?

BURKE: Just peachy Doc. I feel like I got jumped by three guys... oh yeah... I was.

DOCTOR: We ran several tests over the last couple of days since you’ve been with us.

BURKE: What’s the verdict Doc? Can I go home?

DOCTOR: Well, you’ve got a grade two concussion, so we’re going to keep you in for another night or two as I’d like to continue to monitor you. Ruby mentioned you still seemed a bit unclear on a few things from the event when this occurred.

BURKE: That sucks, but it is what it is I guess. How soon before I can get back in there?

DOCTOR: We’ll be taking that day by day. Grade Two concussions are nothing to take lightly. The trauma that you suffered was significant that night, so I’m going to be keeping a close eye on your progress. I’d say off the top of my head just now... you’ll be out of action at least a month. It may be less, but it could be more. I’m going to be running more tests on your head and neck specifically to make sure we didn’t miss anything. Your safety is my first priority Mr. Burke.

BURKE: I appreciate that Doc. I’m willing to do whatever you say to get me back on track, and back to Sin City Wrestling as soon as humanly possible. I’ll spare no expense for this either Doc. Whatever it takes you hear me?

DOCTOR: You have my word Mr. Burke. I’ll get you back, and better than ever in no time. Just have some patience and an open mind.

BURKE: You will have access to unlimited resources. We do this right. Since I’m off indefinitely, let’s take care of everything. When I return it will be a rebirth. We’re going to take Max Burke to a whole other level Doc.

The doctor simply nods in agreement with Max’s offer before shaking his patient’s hand, and leaving the two in peace.

LIGHT BURST

---

FLASHBACK - RECOVERY IN NEW BRUNSWICK

A month has passed since that fateful night in November. Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree Max Burke has returned home to Dorchester, New Brunswick in the middle of one of the harshest Canadian winters in recent memory. The Maritimes are getting hit with blizzard after blizzard, and record lows. Even the hardest Canucks are complaining about this winter.

BURKE: Mother Nature can just fuck right off already. This is ridiculous.

Max Burke is visiting his parents for the holidays. Reluctantly, Max Burke has been following his doctor’s order of relaxation, and no head contact for the time being. We find Max sprawled out on his parents’ couch. In the La-Z-Boy recliner next to him sits his father Billy. Billy is reading his copy of the Sackville Tribune-Post. He folds it up and stuffs it in the pocket of the recliner.

BILLY: Goin’ a bit stir crazy are you son?

Billy chuckles at his son’s frustration of being laid up, and on strict orders from his doctor. He fires off the trademark wink of Max Burke’s that is often seen being shot in the direction of Ruby. Max rolls his eyes at his father. Billy gives Max a slap on the knee before rising from his chair.

BURKE: You could say that dad. I get the feeling that my so called doctor is stringing me along. I feel fine. I’m an elite athlete dammit.

BILLY: Max, concussions are serious business and you damn well know it. He’s not stringing you along like you said. He’s looking out for your best interests. I don’t want my son to end up like some punch drunk boxer.

BURKE: I’m fine dad. Seriously, this is a waste of time. I might get a second...

"No one knows what it's like
To be the bad man
To be the sad man
Behind blue eyes"

Max snatches his Iphone off the coffee table, and quickly scans the caller id.

HSMW

Without further hesitation Max quickly answers.

BURKE: Mark, my friend how are you?

WARD: Fine mate. More importantly, how are you? How is the cornerstone of Sin City Wrestling?

BURKE: Honestly, I’m frustrated. This joke of a doctor still hasn’t cleared me for contact after a goddamn month. It’s unbelievable Mark. I’m ready to go. I’m sitting here at my folks going stir crazy, and freezing my ass off.

WARD: I was talking to your doctor this morning. He informed me that I could tell you that you are cleared for light contact. He wants you to play it safe, but has tentatively cleared you for the new year.

BURKE: It’s about time.

WARD: It is. Everyone has missed you. It’s time you come home to Sin City. I have a proposition for you.

BURKE: I’m listening Mark.

WARD: We’re going to be at Gold Coast for the last show of the year. What do you say we end off the year with a bang?

LIGHT BURST

---

FLASHBACK - BURKE’S BACK!

Justin: Here is your winner... and STILL Sin City Wrestling Heavyweight Champion... GIANI DI LUCA!!!!

“Wrecked” by Killbot hits as Giani rolls back into the ring, and accepts his heavyweight title from Jasmine St. John. He looks at his title for a few seconds, and takes a deep breath. He raises it high in the air as the crowd goes absolutely nuts. Giani scales the turnbuckles, and poses with his title for the fans in attendance. He hops down, and heads to the opposite corner when suddenly... DARKNESS ENGULFS THE GOLD COAST CASINO!!

Strobe lights slice through the darkness.

The video wall goes dark and a spotlight illuminates the entrance.

Adams: HOLY SHIT!!!

Simone: NO WAY!!!

Adams: BURKE’S BACK!!! BURKE’S BACK!!!

Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree raises a hand, and runs his thumb across his throat from right to left in the infamous cutthroat motion.

Simone: We haven’t seen Max Burke in over a month. The last time we saw him he was being dumped in a grave by The Saviors!

He points directly at Giani Di Luca’s heavyweight championship, and a cocky smirk appears on the face of Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree. Giani looks down at his title, and raises it again as Di Luca and Burke burn a hole through each other to close out Climax Control!

LIGHT BURST

---

>GRAVEYARD

We’re back in the graveyard. The fog has settled in a thick blanket that covers the graves. Max Burke has found his way from the grave. We pan up as the camera slowly reveals the bloodied black rose in the right hand of Max Burke. In his left hand is the hand of the lady in black, The Vicious One... Ruby. She lays her head on the shoulder of Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree. They both tilt their heads to the ground and peer into the empty grave. Max tosses the bloodied rose into the grave.

BURKE: The resurrection of Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree is upon us. The powers that be have spoken, and as expected I have the one true visionary and leader of Sin City Wrestling, Hot Stuff Mark Ward in my corner. At My Bloody Valentine, Giani Di Luca must defend his Sin City Wrestling Heavyweight Championship against THREE men in a Fatal Fourway Match. Giani, you may be staring across the ring at three men at My Bloody Valentine, but your focus needs to only be on one. You know it. I know it. The whole world knows it. The true #1 Contender is Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree Max Burke. I am the chosen one that will lead this company to levels that it has never seen before.

Ruby makes her way over to the dirt pile. She picks up the shovel, and begins to slowly fill the grave. Max Burke kneels down, and watches as the dirt begins to fill The Saviors final resting place for Max Burke. An arrogant grin appears on the face of Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree. He slowly rises back up until he is fully standing. He motions to Ruby, and she obliges by handing the shovel to Max.

BURKE: Let’s face the facts. You are a disgrace to that Sin City Wrestling Heavyweight Championship. You have gone soft since you started searching for the adulation of those morons in the crowd each night. Jeremiah Hardin cannot defeat me on his best day. The gods were looking down on him on November 10th. If it wasn’t for that imbecile Cyrus King I would still have the Roulette Championship securely around my waist. If it wasn’t for Cyrus King I wouldn’t have missed TWO months. The fact of the matter is this, the resurrection of Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree... the rebirth of Max Burke is happening on Sunday, February 2nd at My Bloody Valentine. I’ve proven it time and again in that squared circle that I have no equal. Need proof... look at the other chosen challenger in this championship match. I broke Kain mentally and physically time and again during our war. History will repeat itself time and again. You and Hardin are not worthy or even qualified to be in the same ring with Max Burke. The fact that I even have to share this title shot with those two is mindboggling. Unfortunately for you three, Max Burke has been rebuilt. Max Burke has been reborn. Max Burke’s destiny is etched in stone. 2014 will be the year of Max Burke. I will be Sin City Wrestling Heavyweight Champion... because I was born to wrestle... and bred to win.

LIGHT BURST

 

[The location is unknown. Darkness. Rain. One thing is for sure. We’re not in Trinidad. Max Burke, Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree steps out from the shadows. The rain is coming down hard, but the current, reigning, and defending Roulette Champion doesn’t appear to be affected in the least. The camera comes into focus with a sweeping motion to show the half shielded face of Max Burke under his hood. The initial picture of Max Burke reveals that his forehead is bandaged. This is the remnants of Drake Green dropping his face first on to the Roulette Championship weeks ago during the first match with Steve Ramone. The camera zooms in tight to a closeup of Max. The image can only be described as chilling. Max’s face is void of expression. Max is intensely focused as he begins to speak.]

Max Burke: My professional life lately is like the cult classic movie, “Groundhog Day” starring Bill Murray. It seems that I wake up and go through the same motions, day after day... night after night.

[Rain drops cascade from the edge of his hood. The image is ominous, and adds to the overall focus that is dripping figuratively from Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree. Max continues...]

Max Burke: It started with Kain. Over and over, I walked away with my hand raised. Victory after victory, Kain just wouldn’t let it go. He was a sucker for punishment. No matter how many times I beat him, he’d weasel his way into another match... to simply stare at the lights at the end of the night. He eventually took the hint, after months of torment and failure. He has moved on to Goth, and I must say that I am rooting for the former Sin City Wrestling Heavyweight Champion to finish what I have been able to accomplish over the past year. Kain’s reality check continues at High Stakes III, and I couldn’t be more delighted.

[Max tilts his head back, and lets the rain pour over his face with a smile. He pulls his hood off, and shakes out his hair. He rubs his hands over his face, and through his matted hair.]

Max Burke: And now, it seems like we could be at the start of the song that never ends with “The Fearless One” Steve Ramone. What are they thinking? More importantly, what is HE thinking? You’d think the lump I left on his skull would have dissuaded him from taking this match. Why are you even getting this rematch?

[Max’s expressionless face turns to a look of disgust and arrogance. He takes a few steps back, and leans up against the brick. Max lifts his right hand to his chin, and cracks his neck from side to side. A smirk slowly creeps across his face.]

Max Burke: Obviously, he has his golden beer goggles on in hopes of reliving past GWA glories. I hate to break it to you. How many times do I have to tell you, we don’t give two shits about what you did in GWA. This is SCW, Sin City Wrestling. This is the present. This is 2013, the year of Max Burke. Since I have decided to break free from the Party Horde, the Burke family legacy has been a breath of fresh air in Sin City Wrestling. Like it or not, Max Burke is the best thing to happen to Sin City Wrestling. Ask the boss... he’ll tell ya.

[Max unzips his leather jacket to reveal the Roulette Championship firmly, and proudly strapped around his waist.]

Max Burke:  I have brought prestige, and respect back to this Roulette Championship. This title finally has meaning since I freed it from the tyrannical grasp of the King of Excuses. The Roulette Championship is Max Burke’s title. Steve Ramone, do you have it what takes to take this championship from me? In a word... no. No, you do don’t have a snowball’s chance in hell of taking this title from me. The day this championship changes hands is the day that Max Burke decides to relinquish this championship after I walk over every single challenger that steps forward on my way to the Sin City Wrestling Heavyweight Championship. Ramone, you’re just another notch on the belt. You have a spot right next to Kain, my friend. You’ve got skills. You’ve got accolades. No one can deny what you’ve done in your career. Unfortunately for you... my nickname isn’t just something I came up with like so many of the boys do these days. No, it’s a fact of life. I am Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree, and I’ve proven it time and time again. I’m a student of this game, but unlike so many others my mentors are blood. They are the bloodline of this business. The Burkes are pro wrestling. I have been getting my ass whooped since I was a child as my family put me through the proverbial school of hard knocks to teach me the ins and outs of this business. I have been beaten. I have been bloodied. I have been broken. But, I have never backed down. I have never given up. I persevere. I push through. I soak up everything like a sponge. I pick myself up, and take the beatings like a real man. These are the reasons why I wear this Roulette Championship. No one... and I mean no one has an inkling of the trials and tribulations that I have gone through to get to this point in my career. Am I an asshole? Yep! Am I cocky? Yep! Do I have the credentials to back up everything I say and do? You’re damn right I do. I don’t care what anyone else with a Sin City Wrestling contract has to say. I am the present, and future of this industry. Ramone, you cannot beat me on your best day, on my worst. You are not taking this title away Sunday, or any night for that matter. I’ve beat you once. I’ll do it again... and again... and again. Face your reality “Fearless One”... the fearless fear Burke. I proved it last time. I’ll prove it again. Sunday night... you stare at the lights from the mat again Ramone. When you look up, you’ll see Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree standing over you with my title held high in the air. I was born to wrestle, and bred to win. You are destined to fail. See you Sunday.  

 [Backstage at Summer XXXtreme II, we find Max being attended to by the cruise’s physician. He is a bloody mess as he lays flat on the cot. Even in his current state, you cannot wipe the smile from his face even as the needle pierces his skin. The physician keeps wiping away the remnants of Burke’s crimson mask acquired from the barbed wire that Kain introduced in the match.]

DOC: Okay, Mr. Burke one more stitch, and I’ll be done. There we go sir. All fixed up. He did a number on you with that barbed wire. I want you to take it easy for a few days, and let the stitches properly heal. You might be a little lightheaded for the next couple of hours due to the blood loss also. Keep an eye on him miss.

[The physician looks over to Ruby, who is sat by Max Burke’s side holding his hand tightly. She smiles in acknowledgement of the request. Max attempts to sit up, but he does so a little fast prompting him to lay back down. Max chuckles under his breath, and looks over at the doctor.]

MAX: I’m in good hands boss. I think I’ll just lay here a few minutes. I’m in no rush at the moment. You’re good with hangin’ out for a bit eh Ruby?

[Ruby runs her hands through Max’s bloodied hair, and gives his hand a squeeze. Ruby is showing the after effect of the bloody match also as her outfit is spotted with both Max and Kain’s blood.]

RUBY: That’s fine Max. We can stay here for as long as you’d like. You’ve earned the right to rest.

MAX: Thanks. Appreciate that. We’ll let the mob outside die down, and just chill out here. Hey Doc, how’s Kain?

DOC: Pissed off as usual. You’ve definitely stirred him up. You’re about even on the blood loss too.

[Max laughs at the physician’s description of his dance partner in the bloody affair here tonight. He reaches down, and lifts the Roulette Championship off his waist. He flips it up so that he can get a good look at it. Ruby smiles at the expression on Max’s face.]

RUBY: You earned that.

[There is a quick knock on the door, and Hot Stuff Mark Ward pops his head in. He gives quick thumbs up to his new Roulette Champion.]

HS: Congrats Burke. You look like shite.

MAX: Cheers boss. You can put my bonus in my bag.

[“Hot Stuff” Mark Ward smirks, and walks over to Max’s bed side. He offers a quick handshake, which Burke accommodates without hesitation. Mark nods to Ruby before leaving the room, and returning to the show.]


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


[Fast forward to last week’s Climax Control. Word has just been leaked to Max Burke as to who he will be facing in his next match. We find ourselves in the “backstage” area that was set up on Hadicurari Beach in Aruba. We come across Max Burke, with Ruby at his side absolutely fit to be tied. Max is dressed casually in a pair of distressed jeans and a Marvel Wolverine t-shirt. Max has the Roulette Championship held tightly in one hand, and his fingers interlaced with Ruby’s as they are on the search for none other than “Hot Stuff” Mark Ward. After several moments of searching, Max and Ruby find Mark at catering. Max releases Ruby’s hand, and rushes up to “Hot Stuff”. ]

HS: Max.

[“Hot Stuff” Mark Ward offers a hand to Max Burke, but he can see that Max is in no mood for pleasantries. He can tell that Max obviously heard about his next booking. Max is fuming, and Mark fully expected it.

MAX: Ward, what the hell!? Are you serious man!?

[“Hot Stuff” tips the bottle of the local brew back, and takes a long swig before answering his Roulette champion. As Mark is about to set the bottle down, Max swats it out of his hand and sends it flying. Mark looks down at his now empty hand, and quickly back up to make eye contact with Max Burke.]

HS: Mr. Burke, that was uncalled for. I’ll let it slide THIS time, as I am guessing you have received your booking for next week?

MAX: You are damn straight I heard Mark. Why the fuck do I have to waste my time once again… facing the King of Delusions, Kain.  I mean seriously Mark, how many times are we going to do this?

HS: He’s got a rematch clause. It’s a champion’s privilege. Why are you concerned?

[The look on Max’s face hardens with Mr. Ward’s question.  Max picks up a bottle of the local brew on the table, cracks it open, and hands it over to “Hot Stuff”. He picks up another, cracking it open, and takes a long swig himself.]

MAX: Sorry Mark. You didn’t deserve that. I’m not concerned. I’m just frustrated. He’s like a damn tick. I’m sick of hearing the same shit and his verbal diarrhea week after week. It’s becoming quite the bore. The King of Excuses needs to realize when it is time to move on. His time with the Roulette Championship is over. I seriously do not know what it’s going to take for him to finally come to that conclusion. I zipped him up in a body bag for Christ’s sake.

[Mark listens to Max’s rambling rant, nodding periodically to acknowledge he is listening to “Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree”. Mark takes another haul off the bottle.]

HS: Listen Max. Kain is Kain. How many times have you fought over the past year? Things are different now.

[Mark points down at the Roulette Championship. Max looks down at his championship, and nods in agreement.]

MAX: That they have Mark. The blowhard doesn’t have this anymore. How many times have you seen Kain lose his focus over the years?

HS: Very seldom.

MAX: Exactly. I broke his focus. It didn’t take much surprisingly enough. Kain’s a family man now. He’s not the unstoppable war machine that he claims he’s always been. He’s just Mr. Nanny now. His focus is at home with his kids and the wifey. He’s gone soft. He can deny it all he wants.

HS: That is your assessment. Kain is still dangerous.

MAX: No doubt that he is still dangerous when he wants to be, but his head is not in the game like it used to be. He can put on the brave, mean face of the “King of Kings” all he wants but I’ve shown the world exactly what makes Kain tick, and how he can be broken. I dissected him at Summer XXXtreme II and he was on display for the viewing public as I showed the world his innards as he lay on my operating table.

HS: How’s the head? Doc said you were cleared.

[Max brushes his hair away to reveal the wounds of war suffered at the hands of Kain’s expert use of the barbed wire at Summer XXXtreme II. You can see that it is healing well.

MAX: Had Doc take a look earlier tonight. It’s healing up. Keeping it glued to make sure I don’t bleed like a stuck pig everywhere.  Not to mention, I’ve got a great nurse at my beck and call day and night. Anyways, sorry for the rant boss man. No hard feelings.

[Max extends his hand first this time, and “Hot Stuff” accepts it. Max turns, and returns to Ruby’s side. Max quickly turns as he hears a whistle from behind.]

HS: Keep doing what you’re doing kid. You have a bright future.

MAX: Cheers boss.


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


[Friday, September 9th 2013. Beautiful Morningstar Beach Resort in St. Thomas. It’s been almost a week since the announcement of the Roulette Championship Rematch in the Main Event of this week’s Climax Control. Max and Ruby have settled into their rooms at the resort, and are anxious to get in a workout. SCW crews have arrived earlier in the week, and have set up the ring in a private area on the resort so that the wrestlers can get in some work outs under the beautiful skies of St. Thomas. We join Max and Ruby as they arrive at the SCW workout area which includes some free weights, mats, and portable heavy bags among other pieces of equipment scattered about. Max is sporting his Under Armour workout gear today, which is fantastic in the St. Thomas heat.  Ruby is also dressed in black workout gear also from Under Armour. She’s sporting all black compression wear which reveals her curves to the approval of Max. She has her hair pulled back with a black Under Armour headband also.]

MAX: Way to support our sponsors! Looking goooooooood.

RUBY: Typical male…

[Ruby rolls her eyes at Max as he just laughs. She playfully shoves him away. In the SCW ring, several of the SCW trainees are working out. They are in the middle of their warm-up as Max and Ruby make their way to ringside. Max and Ruby leans up against the side of the apron to check out a few of the rookies.  “Stoner” Scott Oliver is also plunked on the apron. He greets Max and Ruby.]

STONER: S’up kids?

MAX: Hey Scotty. Enjoyin’ the vacay man?

STONER: Know it bro.

[All of a sudden, you can see the proverbial light bulb go off in Stoner’s head. He snatches his SCW issued camera off the apron, and flips the viewing screen open.

MAX: What’s up Scotty?

STONER: Oh! Boss men wanted me to catch ya for a little pow wow. Duh! You right here bro. Let’s rock this shit dude.

[Max has a look of slight confusion on his face, but he nods in approval at Stoner’s request.]

MAX: Okay. Shit, might as well man.

STONER: You ready dude?

[Max rolls his eyes at Stoner.]

MAX: Yes dude. Whenever you’re ready fire away.

[ Stoner mounts the camera on his tripod and lines it up so it will catch both Burke and himself in view. The recording light comes to life on Stoner’s camera.  Stoner scoots over next to Max Burke.

STONER: Yo! S’up SCW? I’m here with the P-W-P… Max Burke. I ran into this heartless S-O-B right here on the beach in St. Thomas. Max, my man… you ready to tangle again with Kain?

[Max glares at Stoner as he starts off with the expected question which doesn’t need to be asked in Burke’s opinion.]

MAX: Scotty, yes… I’m ready. I’m ready like I am always ready. This pathetic son of a bitch spews the same shit week in and week out. It’s the same old song and dance. He claims his focus is 100% on me, and taking my Roulette Championship away this week. Really Kain? I don’t think so. You are so full of it. You know, and I know deep down… the fact that Goth is walking around with the Sin City Wrestling Heavyweight Championship is eating you alive.

STONER: HA! Ya, I would say he’s right pissed about that.

MAX: Oh you could read it all over his face. He was ranting like he typically does. He’s going to eat my soul… destroy me… turn me to dust… whatever. I had him so wound up about his little family, and that got in his head. Now… even better… Goth is SCW Heavyweight Champ, and Kain is absolutely going batshit crazy over that fact.

STONER: You guys tore each other apart at Summer XXXtreme II in that body bag match. How are you two going to top that?

MAX: Sunday is going to be a reality check for the King of Excuses. I’ve heard every single excuse that he’s been spouting. On Sunday, I’ll be giving him his opportunity to take paternity leave from Sin City Wrestling, and go home to be with his wifey and newborn twins. I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again Kain. Bring your best on Sunday Kain. I want you at your best. I want that ruthless bastard that you claim is rising from the ashes Sunday. I love how you’ve made every excuse in the book to downplay the fact that I’ve got your damn number Kain. Deny it all you want. The fact of the matter is this Kain. I have figured you out. Your best just isn’t good enough anymore. I broke your stranglehold on the Roulette Championship. How long did you hold it? That’s right… a long ass time… far too long. I was the one to take it away from you. That kills you. You are just not GOOD enough anymore. Face the facts Kain. Go home. Be a dad to your kids. You’ve proven yourself time and time again. But there comes a time when you have to realize that your time is over. You can feel it in your bones. You can feel it in your joints when you get out of bed in the morning. You know deep down, you’re not the same anymore. It’s time to call it a career. You just have to take that crucial step, and just admit it.

STONER: Harsh words bro.

MAX: The truth hurts sometimes Scotty. It stings like a son of a bitch. The sooner Kain realizes his truth, the better it will be for his family. You’re not very old Kain, but those street fights, and the battles in the squared circles around the globe have taken their toll already haven’t they? There’s no harm in admitting that your priorities have changed. Make the right choice Alex. Go home. It’s what your kids want. Hell, I heard you are officially a dad again. Congratulations. They all want to have their daddy home with them every night. It’s what Ariel wants. She wants her husband, and the father of her children home. Don’t be selfish. Do what’s right for your family Alex.

STONER: He keeps telling you not to make it personal. You’re definitely not listenin’ Max.

MAX: It’s not about making it personal. It’s about making him realize that it is time. If I have to send him home permanently… so be it. I will be that man that makes the decision for him. If…

HEYA BABE! WANT TO TAKE ME TO THE DARKSIDE!?

STONER: What the hell?

[Max whips his head around to see where the interruption came from to see a very ballsy, yet idiotic student attempting to make a pass at Ruby. Ruby shoots a look at Max as if it to tell him that she’s got the situation well under control. Max is having none of it, and pops to his feet. He gets directly in the face of the young wrestling hopeful. Max is nose to nose with the young man. ]

MAX: NAME! NOW!

STUDENT: FUCK YOU EHHHH!

MAX: WRONG ANSWER BUB!

[Max smashes the student’s nose with a bone crunching headbutt. Max grabs the kid by the back of the neck keeping full control over him. He unleashes two more vicious headbutts right to the bridge of the nose. Blood is gushing now. Max keeps control of the student’s head with a tight grip on the back of his neck.]

MAX: Lesson #1 that I learned when my family was training me kids. Listen up. See where I have my hand? You control your opponent’s head… you control everything about him. You can have your way with him. Especially, smartass punks who have no business talking to a woman. Want to drop someone with ease? Break their nose. You’ll make giants cry.

[Max pulls the rookie’s head down, and fires off a vicious knee into his already bloodied face crumbling him to the canvas. Max spits on him in a sign of disrespect. Stoner Scott Oliver has taken control of his camera and has zoomed in on the carnage. Max turns to the camera as he kneels down next to the disrespectful student.]

MAX: If you do not have respect… you don’t belong in this business. My name is Max Burke. I was born to win… it’s in my blood! Kain… this ends Sunday!

[Max takes Ruby by the hand, and escorts her out of the ring. The rest of the students surround their fallen comrade in training to check on his wellbeing. A few snicker at the lesson learned.]

 It’s a mere hour after Climax Control has gone off the air. As per earlier instructions from the production crew, Max Burke has remained behind in the locker room. He has been asked like several others to stick around to shoot some hype promos for Sin City Wrestling presents Summer XXXtreme II. Max has changed out of his boots, pads, tights, and has pulled on a pair of “distressed” Levi’s. Max has made the conscious decision to leave Nathaniel Havok’s blood on his face and body. He is relaxing with a cold one... well several cold ones, when finally a production assistance enters the locker room. Burke shoots a look at the young PA, and takes a long haul before setting the empty down into the case.

MAX BURKE: About time eh?

The SCW production assistant drops his eyes down to his clipboard nervously, reacting to the annoyed glare from Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree that was just shot in his direction.

PA: Sorry Mr. Burke. They’re ready for you. Sorry about the delay again.

Max bends over and ties his Chuck Taylor’s. He grabs a couple of beers from the case, and makes his way over to the locker room door.

MAX BURKE: Well? What are you waiting for bub? Let’s get this over with eh...

Max uses his free hand to firmly guide the Sin City Wrestling production assistant out the door. Max almost runs over as the young PA as he’s walking far too slow for Burke. Max shoves the PA out of the way, and turns the corner in the direction of where the interview area is set up. He looks over his shoulder, and yells at the PA.

MAX BURKE: FUCK! Get out of the way kid, or I’ll just run your ass over!

PA: WATCH OUT!

Too late...

RUBY: HEY!

Max almost runs down Ruby AGAIN. As he rams into Ruby he catches her in his free arm. He shoots his signature sly smirk at her.

MAX BURKE: Fancy running into you again... eh? EH!? Like that?

Ruby swears under her breath, and rolls her eyes at Max.
RUBY: Burke, watch where you’re going.

MAX BURKE: Oh, you love running into me like this.

RUBY: Excuse me? You’re the one running into me.

Max lifts Ruby up to her feet. She sticks a finger in his chest.

RUBY: One... stop trying to kill me. Two... impressive work against Havok. I do hope you’re not too hurt after that.

MAX BURKE: It’s just a little blood. Mostly Havok’s.

Ruby spies the blood that has dried onto Burke. She looks him over, impressed with what she sees.

RUBY: After your little mind games with Kain’s wife tonight... you best be 100%.

MAX BURKE: Probably pissed him off eh?

RUBY: Indeed.

Max winks at her, and passes her a beer.

MAX BURKE: Good. On the house... enjoy.

Before Ruby can even react, Max steals a quick kiss on the cheek as he hands off the bottle of beer to her, and quickly tries to slip away. Ruby shoves him away aggressively with a dirty look.

MAX BURKE: The beer’s on the house too!

RUBY: You bastard.

MAX BURKE: That’s me. See ya soon!

Ruby just shakes her head, and smirks at Max as soon as his back is turned to walk away. Max turns to the PA as soon as they are out of earshot of Ruby.

MAX BURKE: She intrigues me. I will have her.

The production assistant stays silent, and simply nods at Burke’s comment hoping to avoid any further abuse from Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree. The two make their way over to the interview area where the production crew is awaiting Max’s arrival.

MAX BURKE: ‘Bout time boys. You ready to roll?

The agent running the promos nods. With that, Max heads over in front of the Sin City Wrestling Presents Summer XXXtreme II backdrop. He’s counted down until the light goes on...

MAX BURKE: Almost time Kain...

The dried blood from the cuts on the forehead of Max Burke truly shows the level that this upcoming match has been taken to.

MAX BURKE: A Taipei Deathmatch was a hell of a choice. You wanted blood...

Burke lifts his left hand into view to reveal that his fist is still taped and covered in glass. He stares intensely at the shards that are dug into the tape.

MAX BURKE: ... you GOT it.

Max takes his fist, and digs into the cuts on his forehead. Within seconds the cuts are reopened, and the blood is flowing.

MAX BURKE: Is this what you wanted Kain? You wanted to see me bleed. You probably thought that Nathaniel Havok, a multi time champion would have his way with me in this match. You probably thought foolishly that he would destroy me, and frankly wouldn’t make it to our match at Summer XXXtreme II.

The blood inches further down the face of Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree. The blood is flowing freely covering Max’s eyes, cheeks and nose.

MAX BURKE: Oh how wrong you were. You simply awakened me. You awakened the beast within me. You awakened the sadist that lives deep within the confines of Max Burke’s soul... didn’t you? No? You don’t think so? Why don’t you ask your bitch of a wife what you did. This is all YOUR fault Kain.

Burke lips his lips at the taste of his own blood. He smiles a toothy bloody grin.

MAX BURKE: Ask her how it felt to be touched by a REAL man. I know she’s into that kinky stuff... she loved it when I choked her. I could feel her heart pulsing in pleasure.

Max laughs, and wipes some of the blood away. He runs his fingers through his hair.

MAX BURKE: I didn’t realize how much she really enjoyed it until I pulled her in even closer. As I held her tight in my grasp, I could feel just how much she enjoyed what I was doing to her against my leg. You see Kain, I’m not just in your head anymore. I’m in your wife’s too.

Max slowly starts unwrapping the remnants of the tape and glass from his fist. The shards of glass start to fall at his feet as he unwinds the tape.

MAX BURKE: You’ll deny vehemently that I’m in your head. Deny it all you want Kain. I know it. You know it. The whole damn world knows it. I’m chipping away at you. You’re going to spew your normal venom of confidence... ego... cockiness... whatever you want to classify it as. It’s the same damn song and dance every single week. We’ve heard it all before. You’re going to rip me apart. You’re going to make me pay. Max Burke is no match for the almighty SELF-PROFESSED “King of Kings”. The difference this time is that I’m in your head you miserable piece of shit. By getting your bitch all hot and bothered last Sunday I’ve upped the ante haven’t I? You’re legitimately pissed off eh big guy?

Max is getting excited, and a grin the size of the cheshire cat’s has appeared.

MAX BURKE: You probably want to rip my damn heart out of my chest while it’s still beating, and feed it to me.

The grin disappears, and Max’s look becomes intense.

MAX BURKE: Good. Get mad you pathetic son of a bitch. I want to see the hellfire and brimstone in your eyes at Summer XXXtreme II. You are so full of yourself that you think you are some kind of unstoppable machine. I’ve shown the chinks that you have in your armour... and it definitely isn’t bulletproof. I found your achilles heel. You know it. Last Sunday, I was the puppeteer, and you were nothing but a pathetic stick of firewood dancing around under my control. Your time is over. You’re finished. Go home, and be with your bitch of a wife... she did nothing for me. Well, go home if she still wants you. She might come knocking on my door any minute now that she’s been handled by a real man. Do yourself a favour. You’re a broken pathetic shell of yourself. Schedule a meeting with Mr. Ward and Mr. Underwood. Go in there, and lay that championship on their desk. Tender your resignation before it’s too lately. Your heart isn’t in this. Your mind definitely isn’t either. Your lack of focus will be your demise. August 18th... there will be a new Roulette Champion... “Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree” and the only REAL man in this championship bout... Max Burke. Ariel... call me toots.

 [Summer has definitely hit the maritimes. Over the past week the high across the members has been 35 degrees, or 95 for our American viewers. The humidity is the killer. Everywhere you turn you see people who love it, and a good amount who hate it... including the man with the persistent chip on his shoulder, “Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree” Max Burke. The star of our show, Max Burke is home visiting his parents, and of course a visit home means a training session with his uncle Ben. Needless to say Max is in a piss poor mood as he thinks of the grueling training session that is to come with his Uncle Ben. It’s noon currently on Friday afternoon. Max pulls up to his uncle’s house in his dad’s Mustang convertible. The top is dropped, Max’s hair is blowing in the breeze as he speeds down the long driveway that leads to the home of Benjamin Burke, Max’s mentor and uncle. Max drives around to the back where Ben’s ring is set up. He screeches to a halt just feet from the ring. Ben looks away from the two trainees currently tussling in his ring and waves to his nephew.]

BEN: MAX! Be careful! Watch what you’re doing!

MAX: Hello to you too! Quit worrying oldtimer.

[Max shoots a devious wink and smirk at his aggravated uncle. He pops out of the car quickly and grabs his gear bag from the passenger seat. He tosses the bag next to the ring, and pulls himself by the second rope to the ring apron. He makes his way over to the corner, leans against the post, and gives his uncle a slap on the back. Uncle Ben in an unconventional lighter moment, messes up his nephew’s hair and gives him a playful shove.]

MAX: Do we seriously have to do this out here today? It’s fuckin’ 35 Ben. You’re going to send someone to the hospital.

[Ben looks at his nephew with what can only be described as a combination of amusement and disgust.]

BEN: Suck it up princess, and get your gear on. Drink your water, and you’ll be fine. If you puke... even better. Just drink more water, and keep going. Go!

MAX: Ok... OK!

[Ben gives his bitchy nephew another playful shove off the ring apron. Max hops down, retrieves his gear bag, and heads into the house to change. He returns a few minutes later dressed in his ArmourStretch ® HeatGear ® Short Sleeve shirt, HeatGear ® Sonic Long Compression Shorts, and Under Armour ® Cam Highlight Training Shoes. Ben looks at his nephew decked out from top to bottom in Under Armour ® and makes a reasonable deduction. ]

BEN: New sponsorship kiddo?

[Max smiles as he hops up on the ring apron. He slingshots over the top rope and lands light on his feet as a cat on the ring apron. A couple of the trainees come up to Max, and shake his hand in a show of respect.]

MAX: Yep. Inked it last week, and they are already hooking me up. They’re designing some new ring gear exclusively for me too. They wanted Pro Wrestling’s Pedigree as the new face of Under Armour ® and who can blame them? Just look at me. Just fuckin’ look at me.

[Ben shakes his head at the boasting of his nephew. He takes a drink from the bottle of water he has sitting on the apron in the corner. He grabs the towel off the ringpost, and mops the sweat from his brow. Max takes a few moments to stretch and warmup during the break in the session. The other trainees grab some water also while Max warms up. Max gives a thumbs up to his uncle.]

BEN: Ready to go? Ok superstar. You came here for a reason.

MAX: Yep... Kain.

[Max grits his teeth as he speaks his name. Kain is the one that is responsible for taking Max out. Besides Aleksei Koji, Kain is the one responsible for the injury that sidelined Max Burke. He is truly the one that Max seeks vengeance on.]

MAX: That egotistical, overrated piece of shit, has to face the music this week. He has no idea what he’s walking into on Sunday. He really doesn’t have a fuckin’ clue.

[Max locks up with one of the trainees, and quickly flips him over with a headlock takeover. He adjusts the positioning of the arm under the neck of the poor practice dummy, adjusts his grip and tightens up the hold. The trainee makes a feeble attempt to break free. Beads of sweat become more prominent on Max’s victim’s brow. A few beads start to slowly cascade down across the reddened face of the student.]

BEN: You’ve got the Main Event this week. It’s time to shine like you did at Into The Void against Aleksei. You opened a lot of eyes that night. I think people are reluctantly impressed with the new and improved Max Burke.

MAX: They should be!

[The student struggles for another minute, realizes it is hopeless to break free, and quickly taps. Unfortunately Max is caught up in the moment, visualizing the goofy ass haircut that Kain has. Visualizing the smug as shit look that is always etched on the triple bagger face of the King of his own fuckin world. Max squeezes even tighter, and the kid’s face turns a bright combination of red and purple as the circulation and oxygen is cut off to the brain. Uncle Ben steps up to Max from behind and places a firm hand on his shoulder, breaking Max from his trance. Max releases the headlock.]

MAX: Sorry man.

[The student coughs violently as Max pats him on the shoulder. Ben offers a bottle of water to the student and pours a bit over his head.]

BEN: You ok?

[The trainee takes a long swig from the water, and gives a tentative thumbs up to his trainer. Ben gives him another pat on the back.]

BEN: I think that’s enough for today guys. Get on out of here.

MAX: Sorry about that again man. Want an autograph from your hero?

[Ben shoots a disapproving look at his nephew.]

MAX: What? What I’d say?

BEN: Get out of here guys. Go to the beach, and cool off.

[The trainees shake hands with Uncle Ben, and Max before exiting the ring. Ben tosses Max a bottle of water from his cooler, and motions for him to take a seat.]

BEN: Have a seat Max. Let’s talk.

MAX: Thanks. Fine, let’s talk.

[Max cracks open the bottle of water, and takes a long haul downing half the bottle. He screws the cap back on, and sets it on the mat.]

BEN: So, what do you got planned for Sunday?

MAX: Well, it’s a mixed tag, and Roulette Rules to boot, so who knows what the stipulation is going to be. Necra’s goin’ to slaughter Mercedes. She’s got that handled no problem. My focus is 100% on Kain, and showing him how to truly break someone. He thought he got rid of me. Payback’s a bitch. He thinks he’s this badass martial artist with all of his flippy floppy kicks. He’s got to deal with a royally pissed off Canuck shooter. I’m going after his fuckin’ knee. He thinks it was bad before. He’ll be going for surgery on Monday morning. He took this way too far over the course of our little feud. He stepped over the line, and I’m sick of his shit. I’m goin’ into hurt him. Fuck entertainment. Fuck ratings. I don’t give a shit. It’s time for that egotistical bully to get a taste of his own medicine. Sunday, I’m opening his eyes to his future. First, I’m going to hurt him... then, I’m taking his title.

[Ben can read the emotion over Max’s face. The rage is seeping from Max’s pores. Ben gets up to his feet, and offers a hand to his nephew. Max takes it, and gets back to his feet.]

BEN: Don’t let the emotions hinder your focus. Kain is dangerous, we both know that. That said, you’re more dangerous than Kain. I haven’t seen that look in your eyes before kid. Use it, but control it. It’s your key weapon right now.

MAX: Trust me, I won’t lose focus Uncle Ben. I’m 100% focused on injuring Kain. He tried to take away my livelihood. He tried to take away the only thing I truly love. I’m finishing him. This is only the beginning. I’m taking everything away from him. Thanks for the pep talk though. You know I owe everything to you Uncle Ben. Sunday, I put all of those years of the pain, blood, sweat, tears, screams of agony to good use.

[Max gives his uncle a strong hug, but releases it quickly.]

BEN: Anytime Max. Let’s go get something to eat. It’s too damn hot for this shit today.

MAX: Finally!

[Max and Ben leave the ring, hop into the Mustang. Max starts up the car, revs the engine and couple of times and takes off.]

 Sunday, March 17th.

Backstage at Climax Control. Max sits in the back staring intently at the backstage monitor, baffled at what he sees. On the screen... Aleksei, Karina, and Trevor stand united proclaiming their allegiance to Christian Underwood.

Max Burke:YOU’VE GOTTA BE SHITTIN’ ME!

Max throws his bottle of beer across the locker room, and it smashes with force on the wall.

Max Burke: What the fuck...

Max gets to his feet, and storms out of the locker room. He is pretty much in a full sprint when he reaches the gorilla position, just behind the curtain. He makes it just as Aleksei, Karina, and his partner Trevor Irons return to the back.

Max Burke: WHAT THE FUCK GUYS!?

Max shoves Aleksei hard into the wall. Trevor steps between them, and forces the separation before things can escalate. Unfortunately... they do.

THWACK!!!!!

Trevor gets absolutely drilled by his partner. Karina and Aleksei and look on in shock as Trevor reacts instinctively and shoves Max hard.



Trevor Iron: What the fuck man!?

Max Burke: Fuck you Trev!

Aleksei Koji: GUYS! STOP!

Max Burke: Fuck off Aleksei. Seriously, you can go fuck yourself.

Aleksei Koji: Hey now. Relax Max.

Max Burke: Why should I? Why didn’t I get the memo about your little pledge of allegiance to Christian. That’s bullshit guys! You know it. Why the fuck did I just have to watch that on a goddamn monitor? I thought we were a team. I thought we were a damn family.

While Max is on his verbal rampage, Karina attempts to calm down Trevor, before he loses his cool again. Trevor rubs his face where Max suckerpunched him.

Max Burke: Like seriously, why wasn’t I filled in on this?

Aleksei Koji: We talked about this Max.

Max Burke: Hold on a second there bud. Yeah, we BRIEFLY talked about it. I didn’t think we came to a final decision. Last I heard we were still weighing the pros and cons of each side. I’m sorry, but why the hell would we join Mark and Christian again? They’ve screwed us at every turn. You guys really didn’t think this through.

Trevor Irons: Max... chill.

Max Burke: Seriously? You guys go out there by yourselves, and not tell me you’re doing it... and you want me to chill? You’ve gotta be kidding Trevor. I thought we were partners. Fuck this... I’m out of here.

Max shoves his way past Aleksei, and leaves the remaining three members of the Party Horde staring on in disbelief.

---


Later that evening...

Max sits in a dark corner of the venue, ear to his phone. We hear only one side of the conversation.

Max Burke: It’s bullshit. Complete, and utter bullshit. I can’t believe they pulled this. I don’t understand man.

Max shoves his hair out of his face, and takes a swig from his quart of whiskey during a pause in the conversation.

Max Burke: I can’t believe they sided with Christian. I mean, what have they done for us lately? They’ve screwed us so many times. Time, after time we can’t catch a break with them. We deserved a one on one rematch with Blood Omen. Everyone saw that. But.... noooooo... triple threat. And now look... we can’t even take the fuckin’ straps from them now since Carter and Baldwin pulled that tonight. I’m so frustrated. Team Erik is looking REALLY good.

Max takes another long drag off his quart which reveals to now be empty. Max drops it in frustration.

Max Burke: Fuck, and now I’m out of whiskey. This night is a write off. Not to mention I already found out we’ve got Hope and Casper next week. What the hell is that? Why do those two idiots keep throwing us in there with random ass pairings? I really don’t want to go out there next week. This match makes no sense. I seriously doubt their faith in us. I doubt their faith, and vision for our division. I just can’t see us breaking through their little glass ceiling at this rate. I’m so frustrated man. I’m confused too. Now that the Party Horde is all  “WOOO TEAM CHRISTIAN!!!!” I don’t know what to think. Fuck it. We’ll talk more later. I’m going to go find some more booze.

Max endeds the phone call, and tucks his phone in his pocket. He storms off.