The Strength of love
Strader Estate
Houston Tx
8/21/23The Strader estate buzzed with a sense of anticipation as Alexandra, John, and their children gathered in the living room. The upcoming trip to Yucatan, Mexico, for the show carried a mixture of excitement, worry, and reflection, a chance for Alexandra to continue her journey in the wrestling world and for the family to bond amidst the whirlwind of their lives. Sitting on the plush couch, Alexandra glanced at John, a knowing smile exchanged between them. Ashlynn and Mackenzie, the bright lights of their lives, were busy chatting about their own adventures. Alexandra took a moment to reflect on the path that had led them here, a journey of trials and triumphs that had woven their lives together inextricably.
"Remember when we first started this journey, John? All the way back in the Original OCW, and look how far this has come, look how far we’ve come." Alexandra's gaze turned nostalgic as she spoke.
"Sin City Wrestling, I’ve had my ups and downs. I’ve had wins and losses, the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. Imperial Wrestling Federation has treated me well from the moment I walked through their door and I’m currently the holder of their Invictus Championship, a title I bled for. A title that I’ll still have to defend long after this match with Jessie Salco is over. Just as she is looking to end her career, mine is still going. I’ve seen many come and go."John's eyes sparkled with fond memories, his arm draped over the back of the couch.
"Yeah, I remember those days, each one is etched into my memory. The early matches, the sacrifices, all leading up to where we are now. You have faced every challenge head on, win or lose and I am proud of you."Alexandra's journey from Sin City Wrestling to Imperial Wrestling Federation, even her reign as PWS:Apex's last-ever World Champion, was a testament to her determination and skill.
"And then," Alexandra continued,
"the time I stood in the ring as the last World Champion of PWS:Apex, the bittersweet closure of that chapter. But it was also a stepping stone toward new opportunities and challenges."Their journey had seen them rise above the challenges, adapting to the twists and turns of the wrestling world while nurturing their family bonds. The kids chimed in with their own playful voices, a testament to the resilience of their family unit.
Ashlynn looked up with a bright smile, her eyes reflecting admiration for her mother.
"Mom, you've done so much, achieved so many things. And now you're going to Mexico for this big show!"Mackenzie nodded enthusiastically, her eyes wide with excitement.
"Yeah, Alexandra, you're gonna be amazing!"Alexandra's heart swelled with pride at her children's unwavering support. She looked at them, a mixture of determination and tenderness in her eyes.
"Thank you, my sweet little darlings. Your support means the world to me. And this show in Yucatan, Mexico—it's another opportunity to show how far we've come. How the legacy I’ve built will remain."John's hand found hers, a gesture that spoke volumes without words. They had faced every challenge together, a united front that had weathered the storms and reveled in the triumphs.
"As you head back to Mexico," John's voice was filled with a quiet reassurance,
"I want you to remember how far you've come, Ally. The challenges you've conquered, the titles you've held—it's all a testament to your skill and determination. I want you to remember just how badass of a woman you are. You are tough as nails and I wouldn’t have you any other way."Alexandra's eyes met John's, gratitude and love flowing between them.
"I wouldn't have made it this far without you by my side, John. You've been my rock, my support through it all. Words cannot express what the support you all give me means." A wistful smile played on Alexandra's lips as her gaze shifted towards the window, her thoughts momentarily turning inward.
"It's just that... I wish you all could come with me, especially you two." She nodded towards Ashlynn and Mackenzie.
"I'll miss you so much while I'm away."Ashlynn reached over and gently squeezed her mother's hand.
"We'll miss you too, Mom. But we know you're going to do amazing things, and we'll be cheering for you from here. You and Miss Salco, both are talented, but momma, look at the things you’ve done in your career, the sacrifices you’ve made to give me the life I’ve always dreamed of. I’ve got to see more places than most kids my age.”This brought a smile to Alexandra’s face. Her daughter always had a way of doing that. She had the gift of making Alexandra feel better about the time they had missed, by reminding her of how grateful she was for what they did spend together.
Mackenzie nodded in agreement, her eyes reflecting a mixture of pride and longing.
"Yeah, Ally, you're a superstar! And, the best part, we love you."Tears of gratitude welled up in Alexandra's eyes as she looked at her family, feeling the weight of their love and support.
"Thank you, my darlings. Your words mean more to me than you'll ever know."And as they awaited the flight that would carry Alexandra back to the world of wrestling, the Calaway family and the Strader family stood united, a testament to the strength of their bonds and the unbreakable spirit that defined their journey together. While the physical distance would be felt keenly, their love would bridge any gap, inspiring Alexandra to give her all in the ring and return to their warm embrace with new stories to share. Alexandra hated having to leave them behind, but she knew that she would be back with them soon enough, back with her beloved family.
The Sacrifices We Make
Strader Estate
Houston Tx.
8/22/23What is the true meaning of sacrifice?
To offer as a sacrifice
To suffer loss of, give up, renounce, injure, or destroy especially for an ideal, belief, or end.
To sell at a loss.
A camera comes up on Alexandra who’s leaned against John’s panhead. She takes a deep breath and then looks up at the night sky for a moment, stars littered the sky with bright specks of light. She turns back to the camera, speaking directly to her opponent.
"Jessie, you speak of sacrifices with the weight of experience, and I can appreciate the path you've walked in this industry. Fifteen years of dedication, the battles fought, the toll it takes on every aspect of life – I don't take that lightly. We're two warriors who understand the blood, sweat, and tears poured into this canvas we call a ring. But let me be clear, I don't stand before you seeking sympathy for the choices I've made. In my twenty-three plus years in this industry, I’ve never once asked or seeked sympathy from anyone and I’m not about to start now."Alexandra's voice resonated with a blend of strength and determination, her gaze locked onto the camera, as if addressing not just Jessie but the entire wrestling world.
"Sacrifices come in various forms, Jessie. You chose a path that led you to a Hall of Fame spot, a wedding ring and a lasting partnership, and that's commendable. But I refuse to believe that motherhood is a weakness or a hindrance. The sacrifices I've made to balance the demands of this business and my family are not a disadvantage; they're a testament to my resilience, my dedication, and my ability to take on every challenge life throws my way. And it kills me to leave them behind when I have to travel for work and they cannot come. But it drives me to give it my all, so that it is not in vain."Her fingers brushed her hair back over her shoulder. She regarded her family as the real token of success, proof that her life wasn’t worthless.
"I am a mother, a wrestler, a girlfriend – and I refuse to compartmentalize those roles. Each one contributes to the fire that burns within me, to the passion that fuels my every step in this ring. You're right, Jessie, I've been in this industry for decades, and I've faced countless opponents who've tested my mettle. But make no mistake, when I step into that ring, when I see something I want, I go for it full force, despite the pain, the sacrifices, because I am willing to do what must be done, what others fear to do. I'm not just carrying my own legacy; I'm carrying the aspirations of every woman who's dared to break barriers, who's proven that sacrifices do not define us, they strengthen us. Women just like you and me, we all started somewhere, right?"Her voice grew more intense, a spark of defiance in her eyes.
"You chose a path that didn't involve motherhood, and that's your choice. But I stand here, not as a victim of sacrifice, but as a beacon of what can be achieved even amidst the most demanding responsibilities. My daughter, my boyfriend, his daughter, they're not holding me back – they're propelling me forward, reminding me why I fight, why I strive to be the best, not for me, but for them. I spent over a decade doing it for me. Now I do it for them, to leave behind a legacy that THEY can be proud of. You made your sacrifices, I made mine."She paused to let that sink in, since Jessie wanted to mention it.
"Jessie, when we speak of sacrifices, we're not merely listing the struggles we've faced. We're acknowledging the battles we've endured, the burdens we've carried, and the losses that have shaped us. But let me share with you a glimpse into the sacrifices that have fueled my journey – sacrifices that go beyond the confines of this industry and cut deeply into the fabric of my life."Alexandra's voice carried a weight of experience, a resonance that spoke of the trials she had faced.
"For me, sacrifices aren't just wrestling related. They're etched in the moments of grief when I lost family members who meant the world to me. The pain of saying goodbye to loved ones who can never be replaced. A failed marriage that left scars, both physical and mental, that took years to heal. A daughter, my Ashlynn, was kidnapped, a nightmare I wouldn't wish upon anyone. I fought hard to get her back home safely. I will do whatever it takes and I prove that time and time again, in and out of the ring. These are the sacrifices that have tested my strength, my resilience, and my will to keep moving forward. My will to do what others will not dare."Her gaze held a mixture of sadness and determination, as if each sacrifice had left an indelible mark. She was not going to back down from this, simply because someone was talking about retiring and wanting to go out on top.
"I've stood by my brother's side as he battled for his life, as he fought to recover from injuries that nearly took him away from us. I've held my niece's hand in the hospital, praying for her recovery after their house was blown up and he just barely managed to get them out alive. I've faced the gut-wrenching fear of not knowing if they would pull through. And yes, I've wrestled with the guilt of not always being there for my daughter, of missing moments that can never be reclaimed. I watched a friends funeral from a distance and had to pay my respects quickly then catch a flight, all while still processing the loss. So do not talk to me of sacrifices."Her voice grew softer, carrying a touch of vulnerability. She was showing she was more than just the woman everyone knew and saw in the ring. She was more than just the wrestler.
"Sacrifices have a way of shaping us, of carving paths we never anticipated. I've experienced the isolation of failed friendships, the heartache of losing those who were like family. These sacrifices, they're not just part of my wrestling narrative; they're part of my life story, the chapters that have led me to this moment."Her gaze turned unwavering, a fire igniting within her.
"Jessie, as I stand here, I'm not just a wrestler with a list of sacrifices. I'm a warrior who's faced adversity, who's battled through storms that threatened to consume me. The sacrifices I've made aren't a badge of weakness; they're a testament to my unyielding spirit. My path has been marked by pain, but it's also been illuminated by triumphs. The championship, any championship I hold, it's more than just gold around my waist; it's a symbol of my ability to rise above the sacrifices, to forge a legacy that goes beyond the pain."Her voice carried a blend of strength and conviction. Hardened by the years of constant sacrifices. Hours logged and pints of her own blood she had spilt.
"I don't seek pity for the sacrifices I've made. I seek respect for the battles I've fought, for the demons I've stared down, and for the moments of victory I've earned. When I step into that ring, when I defend this title, I'm not just a woman who's made sacrifices; I'm a warrior who's emerged stronger, more determined, and more capable of facing any challenge thrown my way."The intensity in her gaze grew, a spark of fire reflecting her unwavering resolve.
"So, Jessie, as we clash for this title, know that the sacrifices I've endured have fortified me. The pain has sculpted my determination, the losses have fueled my hunger, and the challenges have steeled my resolve. The sacrifices aren't my weakness; they're my strength. And I won't let go of this championship without a fight – a fight that's rooted in every sacrifice that's brought me to this moment."The camera angle shifted slightly, capturing the intensity of her gaze.
“As I stand before you, the scars may not be visible, but they run deep within. They tell a story of sacrifices, of trials that tested not just my body, but my very essence. You see, this industry demands sacrifices, and I've paid my dues in ways that transcend the boundaries of the ring. My journey isn't just about victories; it's about the sacrifices that have shaped me into who I am today.”She remembered those painful moments, the fear that she would never return to the sport she loved.
“I remember the night when my world shattered, when the crack of my neck echoed louder than any crowd's roar. The sacrifice of leaving, of healing, was a bitter pill. But from that darkness emerged a blazing determination. The pain and uncertainty were sacrifices I had to endure, and they became the fuel that ignited my spirit. I wasn't just healing bones; I was healing a passion that refused to die. Each step of recovery was a testament to my unwavering will. The sacrifices weren't limited to physical pain; doubts and fears were battles I faced every day. But I rose, not just to walk again, but to step back into the ring with a newfound purpose. The sacrifice of time away gave me clarity – the ring wasn't just a place to fight; it was where I truly lived.”She took a deep breath, looking away for a few moments. She thought about the number of scars that adorned her body, not just from her matches, but from the surgery. When she came back to the ring, she busted her ass, wrestled harder than most people thought she would. She bled and shed the blood of others.
“When I returned, I returned not just as a competitor, but as a warrior who knew the price of her place here. Every match became a tribute to the sacrifices I had endured. The pain of my broken neck transformed into a badge of honor, a symbol of my resilience. I pushed harder, trained longer, and left my heart and soul out there every time. The sacrifices weren't burdens; they were stepping stones to my revival. Adversity didn't break me; it forged me. My broken neck didn't defeat me; it empowered me. The scars I carry aren't signs of weakness; they're the markings of my strength. Every sacrifice became an offering on the altar of my passion, a declaration that no obstacle is insurmountable. I learned that it's not about avoiding sacrifices; it's about embracing them for the growth they bring.”Alexandra’s unwavering love for the industry was only surpassed by the unwavering love for her family.
“So, when you hear the word "sacrifice," remember that it's a thread woven into the fabric of my journey. It's not just about physical battles; it's about the emotional turmoil, the shattered dreams, and the nights I spent questioning. But in every sacrifice, I found my essence, my purpose, and my unyielding will to fight on. This is a message to all who step into the ring – the sacrifices you make are the foundations of your legacy. Embrace them, rise above them, and let them propel you to greatness.”She knew that now was the time to drive it home. If she was going to go down, she was going to go down fighting. She wasn’t going to give up no matter how much pain Jessie tried to inflict on her. She was going to do the same. She was going to give her the fight of her career. The one everyone dreams about but rarely gets.
"At Violent Conduct, when I step into that ring, when I face you for that Roulette title, I won't be weighed down by the sacrifices I've made. I'll be empowered by them. The sacrifices, the challenges, they've molded me into the woman I am today – a woman who's not just a wrestler, but a symbol of strength, determination, and unyielding spirit. I'm not here to compete in a battle of sacrifices, Jessie. I'm here to compete in a battle of wills, of skill, of heart. What do you fight for? What do YOU fight with? Because so far, I’ve seen a woman who is hanging her head and saying it’s over. If that’s the case and how you truly feel, I've already won."Her tone carried a fierce determination, a fire that burned brightly. It was clear that despite Alexandra’s respect for her opponent, she wasn’t coming to play, she was coming to win.
"And while you may have walked a path different from mine, don't mistake my choices for weakness. The sacrifices I've made have forged a strength within me that's unbreakable. So, Jessie, come next Sunday, know that I don't bring a list of sacrifices; I bring a legacy of triumphs, of challenges conquered, and of sacrifices embraced. My past is a symbol of my journey, my dedication, my legacy, and my unrelenting spirit. And I won't let it go without a fight."With those resolute words, the scene faded, leaving behind a sense of anticipation for the clash that was sure to ignite the ring between two formidable competitors, each driven by their own motivations and the desire to emerge victorious.
Saying Goodbye is the hardest part
Strader Estate / George Bush International
Houston Tx
8/22/23The morning sun cast a warm glow over the Strader estate, bathing the surroundings in a golden hue. Alexandra stood in the doorway, her heart heavy with both excitement and a tinge of sadness. Beside her, Ashlynn and Mackenzie were adorned in their bravest smiles, a veil of mixed emotions in their eyes.
"Mom, you're gonna do amazing out there," Ashlynn said, her voice strong despite the shimmer of tears.
"We're gonna be watching and cheering you on, every step of the way."Mackenzie nodded, her small hand gripping her mother's.
"Yeah, Ally, you're our badass. We know you're gonna rock the show."Alexandra reached out, enveloping her daughters in a tight embrace.
"Thank you, my loves. You have no idea how much your support means to me. Remember, no matter where I am, I'll be thinking of you both."Ashlynn buried her face in her mother's shoulder, her voice muffled but sincere.
"We'll be counting the days until you're back." When she pulled away, Alexandra could see the tears in her daughter's eyes.
Mackenzie squeezed her hand, her voice catching slightly.
"And we will be cheering for you loudly when we watch the show. Aunt Meeks already said we could."As they held each other, the bond of love and family was a comforting cocoon around them. Eventually, Alexandra pulled away, her eyes locking onto Ashlynn's and Mackenzie's.
"Promise me you'll take care of each other, and of John, cause he’s going to be lonely without me," Alexandra said, her voice soft but filled with maternal authority.
"We will, Mom," Ashlynn replied with a nod, a resolve in her eyes that mirrored her mother's.
Mackenzie nodded vigorously.
"Yeah, we've got it covered."A tear slid down Alexandra's cheek as she kissed each of the girls on the forehead.
"I love you both so much. Always remember that."With one last lingering look, Alexandra straightened up, John's presence behind her giving her strength. He gave her a reassuring smile, his hand finding hers as they turned to make their way to the awaiting panhead motorcycle. The rumble of the engine seemed to vibrate with a mix of excitement and nostalgia. Alexandra swung her leg over the seat, settling in behind John. Her arms wrapped around his waist, holding on as they started their journey to the airport. The wind tousled Alexandra's hair as they rode, the passing scenery a blur of colors and memories. The weight of leaving her family behind was heavy, but the excitement of the upcoming show and the challenges it held propelled her forward. Soon, they arrived at the airport. John pulled the panhead to a stop, and Alexandra dismounted. Standing in the airport parking lot, their eyes met, a silent exchange that spoke volumes. Alexandra could see the concern and love in John's eyes, a reflection of the emotions swirling within her own heart.
"I'll be back before you know it," Alexandra said, her voice catching slightly as she stepped closer to him.
John held her gaze, his hand gently cupping her cheek.
"I know you will. But promise me you'll be careful, Ally. Especially after what happened with Jenny and her crew."Alexandra nodded, her lips curling into a soft smile.
"I promise, John. I'll be careful. And I'll come back to you and the girls. Besides, Jenny and her crew can't harm me there. They aren't in the company."Tears welled up in Alexandra's eyes as he pulled her into a tight embrace. Alexandra held onto him, her face buried in his chest, as if trying to memorize the feel of his arms around her. She pulled back to look up at him, placing their foreheads together.
"I love you," John whispered, his voice tinged with emotion.
"I love you too," Alexandra replied, her voice equally heartfelt.
Reluctantly, they pulled away from each other, their fingers intertwined until the last possible moment. With a final lingering kiss, Alexandra turned and walked towards the entrance of the airport.She glanced back once, seeing John standing there, his hand raised in a silent wave. And as she entered the airport, her steps guided her toward the unknown of the wrestling world, fueled by her family's love and support, and the determination to make them proud.
It's the battles to ensue
Hotel Balcony
Yucatan, Mexico
8/23/23Amidst the captivating allure of Yucatan, Mexico, Alexandra Callaway stood as a testament to the juxtaposition of her surroundings and the tempestuous emotions that surged within her. With a profound gaze directed at the camera, she paused, allowing the warmth of the sunlight to caress her skin as if in contrast to the storm that brewed within her. Drawing a deep breath, Alexandra's words began with a tone of contemplation and introspection, each syllable resonating with the weight of her journey.
"In the grand tapestry of existence, the span of twenty-three years can encompass an entire universe of metamorphosis, of evolution, of growth. As I stand here, on the precipice of seizing the Bombshell Roulette Title, I find myself immersed in the memories of the path I've trodden, the obstacles I've conquered, and the countless nights where sheer determination guided my steps, culminating in this very moment. The stage is set, the spotlight beams brightly, and the countdown to Violent Conduct XI ticks away steadily. Your narration of your legacy, your voyage through SCW, echoes clearly, Jessie. You've left an indelible imprint upon this division—a testament to your resilience, your grit, and your defiance in the face of adversity. It's a legacy I respect, Jessie. I respect you."As she gently adjusted the title adorning her shoulder, Alexandra's gaze remained unswerving, an unspoken determination radiating from her very being.
"Jessie, your mark in the Bombshell division stands undeniable, a champion who has showcased her strength to the world. The tenacity that you bring to the ring, the fire that burns in your core—I hold immense respect for all of it. Yet, let me clarify that this respect doesn't translate to hesitation on my part. The challenge I extend is not born from malice but rather from an unquenchable yearning to etch my own narrative onto the fabric of this company. The Bombshell Roulette Title, more than a mere trinket of success within SCW, symbolizes a desire that courses through my veins. It's not solely about the gold, you see; it's about proving my worth, showcasing my capacity to belong amongst the elite tiers of this division. It's about leaving an indomitable mark that persists through time's trials."Her voice wove a melody of admiration and aspiration, each word a testament to her respect and her ambitions. Her expression took on a heightened intensity, a flame of purpose igniting within her eyes.
"The Bombshell Roulette Title—it's not just a coveted prize; it's a symbol of the countless hours, the sweat, the sacrifices etched into the bedrock of our careers within this industry. And now, as I stand at this crossroads, I'm poised to give my all, to transcend my limits, and to seize the moment that beckons. I will not discredit your legacy, not as you have mine. Your words on twitter prove just how much you don’t respect me. You see yourself as untouchable. So did Matt Knox, and yet I took his Invictus Title from him. So doubt me all that you want my dear, it will not change the outcome. And let’s say you do retain at least I don’t have to worry about you crying about how I ended your career." Bringing herself a bit closer to the camera, her eyes aflame with unyielding determination, Alexandra continued her proclamation. With each passing moment, her voice grew in strength, in fervor.
"I've witnessed your battles, your victories, and your setbacks. The Bombshell division thrives on fierce contenders, each with their saga, their perseverance. But as the sun dips below the horizon, as the stage takes form for our impending clash, you must understand that I don't approach this challenge frivolously. I carry with me the flames of ambition, the heart of a warrior, and the unwavering resolve to emerge as the victor. While our mutual respect for our journeys intertwines us, once we enter that ring, a new canvas unfurls before us. Our histories, our accolades—they converge to kindle the fires that propel us onward. Jessie, your journey, your accomplishments—they command respect. Yet, I harbor a profound reverence for my own odyssey, my aspirations, and the legacy that I've painstakingly cultivated over the years."Her gaze became unflinching, determination etched across her features. She looks into the camera with a great intensity now.
"When our collision ensues, it won't merely be a contest of flesh and bone. It will be a convergence of dreams, of ambitions, and of the infernos that burn within our souls. This encounter transcends the acquisition of a title; it represents the culmination of our journeys, the embodiment of our fervor, and the proclamation of our love for this business."Her stare penetrated through the camera, an unbreakable connection forged between her words and the hearts of those who listened.
"Prepare yourself. Prepare for a duel that will etch itself into our very essences, a confrontation that will eternally resonate through the annals of our careers. The Bombshell Roulette Title beckons, and I answer its call with a heart ablaze and a spirit unyielding. Let the countdown commence, for when that final toll reverberates, I intend to stand victorious."A moment of silence followed her declaration, the intensity of her words lingering in the air like a palpable force.
"Until Violent Conduct arrives, Jessie, let us brace ourselves for a match that will be recounted in the echelons of history. Let's craft a chapter that will echo for ages to come. While you are leaving the women’s division of this industry, I’ll still be here, just as those who have come and gone before you."With a single, resolute nod, the scene began to fade, leaving behind an aura of anticipation and excitement for the impending clash. Two titans of the ring, driven by their aspirations and the unwavering determination to etch their names in the pantheon of wrestling glory.