Post by CJ Phoenix on Sept 4, 2016 15:13:37 GMT -5
The scene begins with a highlight video from Revenge.
As Kyle Steel speaks, the video shows, in order, Jordan Ciserano, Dion Necurat, CJ Phoenix, and Massaker, each making their way to the ring.
Kyle Steel: The following contest is a Fatal Four Way match, and it is for the WCF Alpha Championship.
Zach Davis: Four men will enter that ring looking for their first taste of WCF gold.
The camera cycles through the participants in line with Freddy Whoa's second statement.
Freddy Whoa: That's right, Zach! One of these four wrestlers will walk out of Revenge as the Alpha Champ.
Big moves from the match are being shown, including Dion introducing his shield into the match and Massaker's vicious assault with his skillet. What follows is the collision between the Talon Kick and the Ciserano Super Kick. Finally, the match ending Talon Kick is shown as Phoenix falls to the ground and pins Massaker.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
*DING DING DING*
Zach Davis: THERE YOU HAVE IT!
Freddy Whoa: CJ PHOENIX IS OUR FIRST ALPHA CHAMPION!
Phoenix is handed the belt which he holds close to him, taking in the moment before climbing to his feet and holding it high.
Zach Davis: There are very few firsts in this business, but tonight we witnessed two. The first Alpha Championship, and the first WCF Title reign of CJ Phoenix!
The recap video ends.
The sun rises in New Jersey as its rays pierce through the windows of CJ Phoenix's hotel room. The light summons Phoenix from his dreams and into reality. The room he was in has a Flatscreen TV on the counter, and on top of that was the Alpha Championship title. It would be that belt that catches CJ's eyes first when his eyes fully open. A smiles runs across his face before it's quickly ripped away by an agonizing headache. As he places his hand on his skull, he feels the twelve stitches holding it in one piece, reminding him of what he went through last night. If that wasn't enough of a memory jogger, he's extremely sore, and it was a bit of a struggle just for him to make it to the bathroom to shower. Once he limps back to his bed, he gets a call from Kaiyah.
Phoenix: Morning babe.
Kaiyah: Morning Champ!
Phoenix: I love the sound of that! Champ. I still can't believe it.
Kaiyah: Well, you have the belt to help you believe it.
Phoenix: No, not that. I can't believe it's so hard to move right now. I feel like I got blindsided by the Two Ton Tunic...or a slightly unhappy Oblivion. I'd imagine they'd be about the same.
Kaiyah: Ohhh. Speaking of unpleasant feelings, my heart nearly skipped a beat watching that match of yours.
Phoenix: My head nearly skipped off of my body from being in that match of mine. Damn this headache!
Kaiyah: Sounds like you could use a few painkillers and a spa day.
Phoenix: Normally, I'd say "no" because I'm not a spa guy, but I might make an exception this one time. Matter of fact, why don't you fly on up here and join me. We can make it a date, and maybe you could give the champ a back massage, por favor?
Kaiyah: Welllllllllll....I guess I could see what I can do about that. Hahaha. Of course I'll be there. I'll book a flight and be there first thing in the morning.
Phoenix: Heh heh. You just never stop being amazing.
Kaiyah: Why should I?
Phoenix: Never said you should. Speaking of what should be done, I should be finding out when the next card comes out so that I can start preparing for my next match.
Kaiyah: Good idea. Try not to do anything too strenuous, or I'll rip your head off and go bowling with it, okay?
Phoenix: That's adorable!
The two exchange a laugh.
Phoenix: But I am about to go get some more ice and relax. I'll see you when you get here.
Kaiyah: Alright. Love you!
Phoenix: Love you too!
The phone hangs up.
Kaiyah and Phoenix enjoy a relaxing day at the spa. I cringed a little typing that. Anyways, the two enjoy a relaxing date filled with hot tubbing, fancy food eating, and a little of the drinking of alcoholic beverages. It was one of those graceful moments where the two could just unwind and leave the world behind. Sadly, all good things must come to an end. It's back to business for the Alpha Champion as he is sitting on the bed in his hotel room on his laptop while receiving a back massage from Kaiyah.
Kaiyah: So, let me make sure I got this right, you're in the main event?
Phoenix: Yep!
Kaiyah: Awesome!
Phoenix: I know right!
Kaiyah: You being in the main event's a sign of the faith that the booking team has in you to headline a show.
Phoenix: True. I'd have to start getting used to it eventually. Why not now? Plus, it's against three of the most underestimated guys on the roster. Not to mention Teddy Blaze It's in the match.
Kaiyah: Except this time, he's an opponent instead of a tag team partner.
Phoenix: That he is, but before I get into that, there's something else I have to do.
He goes to his YouTube channel on his laptop. Once there, he begins recording himself.
Phoenix: Hey everybody. CJ Phoenix here AKA the Alpha Champion of the WCF along with my beautiful woman, Kaiyah...
Kaiyah waves at the camera and smiles.
Phoenix: ...and I have a message for you guys, especially anyone in the World Title picture. Last Sunday, I walked into Revenge with a chip on my shoulder the size of a spaceship. I'm still a little sore from that match, but I'm feeling much better now, especially since I walked out of that match...
He grabs the Alpha Title and holds it up to the camera.
Phoenix: ...with this championship belt right here!
The title gets placed back on the bed, but not quite far enough to be out of the camera's view.
Phoenix: Now, when Seth made this an official replacement to the U.S. Title, he added a few stipulations to it. The first was that it could only be won by those who have not yet held gold in the WCF. What that means is that this will be my one and only reign as Alpha Champion. Once this belt officially leaves my possession, I will no longer be able to compete for it. Of course, I will always be the first person to wiin a match for this title. That's something that will never be taken away from me, even after I'm no longer the title holder.
CJ glances at the title before looking back at the lens.
Phoenix: Which brings me to why I decided to record this video. The other power that Seth bestowed upon this object is that if I can hold on to this title for two months, I can trade it in for a Non-World Title shot. So, which title would I go after? Should I take the extreme route and go for the Hardcore Title? Do I become a Phoenix of the People and pursue the People's Title? Maybe you think I'll chase the TV Title that I'll eventually win at some point. Who knows? Maybe I'll meet up with the Blaze and challenge for the Internet Title, or even team up with him and go for Tag Team gold. I guess the main question is, what does CJ Phoenix do if he successfully holds the Alpha Title for two whole months?
His tone gets more serious.
Phoenix: The answer is that I keep holding the title. My goal is for my sole Alpha Title reign to last for 92 days.
Kaiyah: Wait, what?
Phoenix: I'm not stopping at two months. As great as having any of the aforementioned titles would be, my focus is only on one. You see, if the Alpha Champ can hold on to the title for three months, then the title shot gets upgraded to a World Title shot. That's what I'm going for.
Kaiyah: Ohhhhhh.
Okay.
Phoenix: On August 28th, my first WCF title reign began. Ninety-two days after that would make three whole months. So, if you're out there watching this with your eyes or your hands on the WCF World Title, listen closely. On November 28th, I will be able to exchange the title I have right now for a shot at WCF's richest prize. If I have to wait until the following Slam to get my shot, then that'll bump my reign up to 98 days, but I'm not worried about those extra half dozen. My focus is to go the distance. I will do everything I can to ensure that I make it the whole 3 months. WCF World Champion, whomever you may be at the end of November, when those 92 days are up, I'm coming for you, no matter who you are.
He shuts off the camera and uploads the video to his channel.
Kaiyah: That's a bold challenge you just made.
Phoenix: Yes. Yes it is, but it's one I had to throw out. This is how I challenge myself to get better. Guys like Thomas Bates, Gemini Battle, and Corey Black are elite. They've sat atop the WCF as World Champions. That's the level I need to get to. I'm not there right now, but I WILL be, and that starts with Slam this Sunday. Facing three great opponents in Bishop, eXtreme, and Blaze, all of whom I believe I'm on the same level as and vice-versa, is what I wanted. It's what I needed. I need a match like this to not only raise the prestige of my title, but to also take that next step towards legitimizing myself as a serious contender for the World Title.
Kaiyah: I'm pretty sure a win would put you on some radars.
Phoenix: That's what I'm counting on. The four guys in the main event this week are some of the best that WCF has to offer, but the reality is that we're elite, second-tier wrestlers. We're the closest guys to breaking into that top tier level. I'm making sure that I cross that threshold by improving myself one day at a time. It's time to prove once again why I'm the Workhorse of the WCF.
The scene begins with an aerial shot of WesBanco Arena. As the camera slowly zooms in on the arena, CJ Phoenix's voice can be heard.
Phoenix: Country roads...take me home...to the place...where I belong.
The camera angle switches to a view of Phoenix walking up to the front entrance. The Alpha Title lays on his shoulder. He's dressed in his ring attire as he continues speaking to himself.
Phoenix: WCF...this Sunday...with a win...I'll walk away.
Phoenix stops when he reaches the entrance. He continues to not look at the camera.
Phoenix: Two days from now, I'll be on the other side of these doors competing in a Fatal Four Way match. The three opponents I face are by no means pushovers. Just like last week, I'll be in for a fight, and I'm ready. I've seen my opponents in the ring. I know that they're capable of putting on great matches and amazing stories. That's how I know it'll be a war. And speaking of war, congratulations Mikey eXtreme! You're gonna be the last guy coming down the ramp in the War match! You're a hell of a competitor, and you bring the heat in every match you're in. I know you have one of the most dangerous legs in the WCF. I respect you.
He takes a long pause and looks down.
Phoenix: Or at least I did respect you, until I found out what you really are. You were one of the better guys in the company ever since I first stepped foot into a WCF ring. A part of me always wanted to face off with you. I always thought that it would be great going to the extreme against Mikey eXtreme. Your ability to win and hold on to the U.S. Title made you one of WCF's greatest United States champions in the last few years. At least, statistically speaking, you were one of the greatest. Now I hold the title that, before its remodeling, got you the title of "U.S. Champ of the Year" last year. That I can't take away from you. You were great in my eyes...all the way until yesterday.
CJ thinks about something, then takes a deep breath.
Phoenix: I was reading up on you. Studying so that I could develop a gameplan. I thought I had you figured out, but then I came across something that sent a chill down my spine. You did something that would never expect from you. You sacrificed an innocent woman! And for what? A chance to have the fans wait longer before you get tossed out of the War match!? Things stop going your way and you resort to this!? I've been wanting to better those around me by being positive and playing off the threats from nutcases like The Butcher and Lilith. However, I need to go a different route with you. After what you did, I hate you. I despise what you've become, Mikey. Most of all, I'm disappointed in you. Mikey, you should be ashamed of yourself! What you did just proves that you can't get the job done on your own anymore. I know it, and so do you. That's why you did what you did. You've become desperate. No longer were you the serious threat Mikey eXtreme. You became the guy that couldn't get it done anymore. The best of your days have passed you it seems.
A few raindrops begin to fall from the overcast sky.
Phoenix: I know what that pain you're feeling is like. Fighting so hard only to have that light at the end of the tunnel fade away right as you're about to reach it. I felt that pain every time I pursued a title and walked out empty handed. It drove me to a dark place. A place that, at one point, I didn't even think I'd make it out of. You know what I did, Mike? I kept fighting. Even when my mind gave up, my soul did not! I have a fighting spirit while you're stuck with an empty soul. When that light faded, I fell. I fell hard, but I got back up. I got up determined to make my own light. Even as I speak, I continue to make my own light because that's how you overcome the slumps and bad stretches. I fought my way to where I am now, but you? You took the easy way out. How dare you disrespect your own legacy by trading in everything you've actually earned for a drug to numb the pain of your own mistakes?
The rain quickly begins to pick up.
Phoenix: This Sunday, I'm gonna make you pay for what you've done. I'm gonna do my best to try to salvage and restore what little dignity you have left. I know your secret, Mikey. You may be able to fool those like Hank Brown, but you're not fooling the Phoenix. If you thought that love tap of a kick you took from Henry Spearman was painful, you better pray to your beloved darkness that you're not the one eating a Talon Kick. You may have one of the most dangerous legs in the business, but mine IS the most dangerous. Your kick can't hold a candle to mine! At Revenge, I faced a man who had a dangerous kicking game. His name is Jordan Ciserano. I took his best shot, and STILL won the match with MY Talon Kick! This Sunday, I'm gonna do the same thing. Hit a Talon Kick, maybe two or three, and walk out victorious. Can you say the same thing? No. You can't. As much as it eats away at you on the inside, you and I both know that you're the weakest link in our Fatal Four Way match. There's a reason why you're the only one of the four of us to not be holding a belt right now. It's because you've become a shadow of your former self, while we grew out of the shadows of the WCF roster. So bring that darkness. By all means, PLEASE bring every bit of it that you possibly can! I want you to bring everything that you think you've got, so that after our match, you'll be left with nothing more that the broken shell that you are!
As the rain starts to show signs of stopping, little breaks in the clouds begin to form, letting tiny bits of sunlight shine through. CJ Phoenix lifts his head upward.
Phoenix: From the darkness to the Plague. Kevin Bishop. When we first faced off in the ring, I admit I underestimated you. I misjudged you. I thought that you was just some egotistical monstrosity plaguing the minds of the innocent. However, after our match, I sat back and watched to see if you were really a man of the people. Turns out, you are. I heard about your little freakshow, and I must say that what you do for those people is incredible. That match you had with Psychopomp a few days back was amazing. You went out there and showed the WCF Galaxy why you're champion. In fact, even in our match, we put on a hell of a show. We went out there and gave the WCF Galaxy what they deserved, and that was a great match from start to finish. In the end, you got the pinfall over me. Congratulations. You can technically say that you have defeated me. I have only myself to blame for that loss. I slipped up and didn't react quickly enough to avoid accidentally getting speared by my own teammate. I wasn't expecting it because he wasn't one of my opponents. It's a loss that I've accepted and learned from. In fact...
The rain slows to a light drizzle.
Phoenix: ...I learned something else from that match. Something that you might be just a little to proud to admit. You may have gotten the the pin according to the stat sheets, but we both know that the Black Death needed help from Lady Luck to keep me from winning that match. It wasn't just Black Death and then match over. No. It took THREE CONSECUTIVE top moves from THREE different people, one of which was my own partner in the match, to slow me down long enough for the ref to count to three. That just means that the Black Death isn't quite deadly enough to put out the flames of the Phoenix. I'm the one who has the psychological advantage between us. You see, you may have been considered the better wrestler a few weeks back, but it doesn't change the fact that I'm a better version of you.
Phoenix looks at the door once more and smirks.
Phoenix: Now I know what you may be thinking, Kev. How can a guy I beat be a better version of me? Lemme break it down for you.
He looks at his Alpha Title.
Phoenix: Let's start with this title I'm holding. You were once United States Champion, much like Mikey eXtreme. That title made you relevant. It put you on the radar. Me on the other hand, I make this championship belt relevant. I'm the reason it's worth pursuing. You had your time, and you did good, but I'll do better. How about your People's Title? I hate to break it to you, but I'm a better man of the people than you are. You may fight for the people, but I fight for them to become better people. As I said before, I respect the fact that you go as far as to reach out to what society calls "Freaks". Thing is, I reach further and deeper to more people. You want an example? How about Revenge? How about the fact that the People's Champion got booed by the very people that he's supposed to be champion of? You speak to the people. I relate to them. I fall down just like they do so that I can show them how to get back up! Ironically I also relate to you. A guy who went from fighting through a scarred and troubled past to become champion. Has some people that look up to him. People that he fights for. Difference is, I'm the REAL champion of the people because I give them a reason to strive to be the best versions of themselves.
CJ looks around before looking at his reflection in the glass.
Phoenix: Last, but not least, when you step into that ring, you're on your own. You and I both know that you can't beat me on your own. Your arsenal isn't good enough to singlehandedly stop me. The ONLY chance you have at leaving Slam victorious is if you can sneak in a quick 3 on one of the other opponents. You need help to defeat me, and you won't have any. It's every man for himself out there, and while I admire your skills in the ring, I simply cannot allow you to win this Sunday. I've come too far to let you, or anyone else in that locker room stop me! I tasted my own blood with a smile on my face to win the title I'm holding! Go ahead, brag about your ONE pinfall over me. All that will do is make you cocky. It'll make you arrogant. You'll underestimate me, and that's what will lead to your downfall. That is what makes me a better version of you. I stare my flaws down every day and I fight to turn those flaws into weapons, and my greatest weapon against you is the fact that you have reached your ceiling, while the sky's just a checkpoint for me. Kevin Bishop, if you're the Plague, then I'm the Cure.
He chuckles a little bit as the rain completely subsides.
Phoenix: Alas, there's they guy I've been referring to as "#BlazeIt", Teddy Blaze. Out of the three opponents I have, you're the guy I'm looking forward to facing the most, buddy. I know your offense and you know mine. We both know that we can work together very well. However, this isn't a tag match. This is a chance for me to beat some sense into you. For two whole weeks, I tried to get you to snap back into your senses. I even went as far as to get the fans to cheer for you. I offered a friendship, and you turned it down. You turned down a bond with the WCF Galaxy. It left me wondering why. Why, Teddy? Why would you do something so selfish. Then, I realized something. I realized that you're jealous of me. You didn't cost me a win, but I always got the pin. I carried our team on my back. I'm the one that put in the most work, and it pisses you off. It offended you personally when you realized that my star shines brighter because it was built to last longer. I know good and well that you don't like me. Honestly, I like what you bring to the ring, but you have a shitty personality. That's okay though, I'm gonna help you be the best Blaze It that you can possibly be! You already have a fan base. You mostly wrestle clean. You were once Teo Del Sol, choice of the people. You fought for the people. Lived for them. Fed off of their energy. Then, you changed.
He grabs the Alpha Title and holds it in from of him. Then, he looks down at it and sighs.
Phoenix: What happened to you, Teddy? What changed you when you were in Mexico? This isn't you, man. You're better than this. Every thing about you is pretty much the same except the inside of your head. That's what I'm going after. When Slam rolls around, I'm gonna see if I can bring out Teo because I know he's still in there. I know that we could be a good team. No, a great team! As much as my pride doesn't want to admit it, "Blazing Phoenix" has the potential to be WCF Tag Champions. Sadly, there's just one thing keeping that from happening. You. You push away everybody in hopes that it'll push you to the top. Congratulations, it got you close. Just not close enough. You're the Internet Champion, and yet even I spend more time interacting with the WCF Galaxy on social media than you. What kind of champion devalues his own title? If it were Teo holding that belt, he's be on social media day in and day out, proving to the Galaxy that he's worthy of holding the title of the interwebs. But this match. This main event match on Slam. It isn't about you title, nor is it even about a potential tag team formation. It's about four guys stepping between those ropes and beating the hell out of each other. So if you don't wanna be on my side, then that makes you another obstacle for me to overcome. Besides, the World Title's only one belt, not two.
CJ places the belt back over his shoulder.
Phoenix: I have a poem I wish to share with you. Listen closely.
How do I win the match? Let me count the ways.
Who's gonna stop me? Not Teddy Blaze.
He enjoys taking flight. A trait he shares with me.
At full speed he runs, attempting the Blazing Knee.
A strike most deadly, if it connects.
He's a formidable foe, exactly what I'd expect.
However, his strike, no matter how heated
Just won't be enough to extinguish the Phoenix.
How about the one people mutter "cultist" under their breath?
The man with the move that he calls the Black Death.
You see, The Black Death was a force in its prime.
A death most swift in a short amount of time.
However, I've taken your finisher of doom
And from it, I learned. Now to it, I'm immune.
I have now conquered death, so the next time we meet,
Your only option will be to leave in defeat.
Last, and least, eXtreme the Mike.
Oh how I'd love to put your head on a pike.
Or shove it up your ass, wouldn't take that far
For you to see how full of shit you are.
Even if you mark the spot with all of your might,
My kick is still better, and we both know I'm right.
You're tough, but I'm tougher, and on Sunday night
Your darkness will be vanquished, destroyed by the light.
Gentlemen, you may find what I say surprising,
but despite my success, the Phoenix is still rising.
I may be good today, but tomorrow, I'll be better.
This pattern will continue forever and ever.
So I ask you, which of you lives without fear?
Who thinks they're strong enough to survive getting Speared?
Doesn't matter, because once Phoenix lands a Talon Kick.
I'll get the pin, and it'll be over...
CJ Phoenix hits a Talon Kick on the camera, causing it to flip out of the cameraman's hands and crash onto the ground. He then crouches down and looks into the lens for the first time as it begins fading in and out.
Phoenix: Just. That. Quick.
The camera cuts to static before shutting off completely.
Revenge (August 28th, 2016)
Kyle Steel: The following contest is a Fatal Four Way match, and it is for the WCF Alpha Championship.
Zach Davis: Four men will enter that ring looking for their first taste of WCF gold.
The camera cycles through the participants in line with Freddy Whoa's second statement.
Freddy Whoa: That's right, Zach! One of these four wrestlers will walk out of Revenge as the Alpha Champ.
Big moves from the match are being shown, including Dion introducing his shield into the match and Massaker's vicious assault with his skillet. What follows is the collision between the Talon Kick and the Ciserano Super Kick. Finally, the match ending Talon Kick is shown as Phoenix falls to the ground and pins Massaker.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
*DING DING DING*
Zach Davis: THERE YOU HAVE IT!
Freddy Whoa: CJ PHOENIX IS OUR FIRST ALPHA CHAMPION!
Phoenix is handed the belt which he holds close to him, taking in the moment before climbing to his feet and holding it high.
Zach Davis: There are very few firsts in this business, but tonight we witnessed two. The first Alpha Championship, and the first WCF Title reign of CJ Phoenix!
The recap video ends.
August 29th
Newark, New Jersey
Phoenix: Morning babe.
Kaiyah: Morning Champ!
Phoenix: I love the sound of that! Champ. I still can't believe it.
Kaiyah: Well, you have the belt to help you believe it.
Phoenix: No, not that. I can't believe it's so hard to move right now. I feel like I got blindsided by the Two Ton Tunic...or a slightly unhappy Oblivion. I'd imagine they'd be about the same.
Kaiyah: Ohhh. Speaking of unpleasant feelings, my heart nearly skipped a beat watching that match of yours.
Phoenix: My head nearly skipped off of my body from being in that match of mine. Damn this headache!
Kaiyah: Sounds like you could use a few painkillers and a spa day.
Phoenix: Normally, I'd say "no" because I'm not a spa guy, but I might make an exception this one time. Matter of fact, why don't you fly on up here and join me. We can make it a date, and maybe you could give the champ a back massage, por favor?
Kaiyah: Welllllllllll....I guess I could see what I can do about that. Hahaha. Of course I'll be there. I'll book a flight and be there first thing in the morning.
Phoenix: Heh heh. You just never stop being amazing.
Kaiyah: Why should I?
Phoenix: Never said you should. Speaking of what should be done, I should be finding out when the next card comes out so that I can start preparing for my next match.
Kaiyah: Good idea. Try not to do anything too strenuous, or I'll rip your head off and go bowling with it, okay?
Phoenix: That's adorable!
The two exchange a laugh.
Phoenix: But I am about to go get some more ice and relax. I'll see you when you get here.
Kaiyah: Alright. Love you!
Phoenix: Love you too!
The phone hangs up.
August 30th
Kaiyah and Phoenix enjoy a relaxing day at the spa. I cringed a little typing that. Anyways, the two enjoy a relaxing date filled with hot tubbing, fancy food eating, and a little of the drinking of alcoholic beverages. It was one of those graceful moments where the two could just unwind and leave the world behind. Sadly, all good things must come to an end. It's back to business for the Alpha Champion as he is sitting on the bed in his hotel room on his laptop while receiving a back massage from Kaiyah.
Kaiyah: So, let me make sure I got this right, you're in the main event?
Phoenix: Yep!
Kaiyah: Awesome!
Phoenix: I know right!
Kaiyah: You being in the main event's a sign of the faith that the booking team has in you to headline a show.
Phoenix: True. I'd have to start getting used to it eventually. Why not now? Plus, it's against three of the most underestimated guys on the roster. Not to mention Teddy Blaze It's in the match.
Kaiyah: Except this time, he's an opponent instead of a tag team partner.
Phoenix: That he is, but before I get into that, there's something else I have to do.
He goes to his YouTube channel on his laptop. Once there, he begins recording himself.
Phoenix: Hey everybody. CJ Phoenix here AKA the Alpha Champion of the WCF along with my beautiful woman, Kaiyah...
Kaiyah waves at the camera and smiles.
Phoenix: ...and I have a message for you guys, especially anyone in the World Title picture. Last Sunday, I walked into Revenge with a chip on my shoulder the size of a spaceship. I'm still a little sore from that match, but I'm feeling much better now, especially since I walked out of that match...
He grabs the Alpha Title and holds it up to the camera.
Phoenix: ...with this championship belt right here!
The title gets placed back on the bed, but not quite far enough to be out of the camera's view.
Phoenix: Now, when Seth made this an official replacement to the U.S. Title, he added a few stipulations to it. The first was that it could only be won by those who have not yet held gold in the WCF. What that means is that this will be my one and only reign as Alpha Champion. Once this belt officially leaves my possession, I will no longer be able to compete for it. Of course, I will always be the first person to wiin a match for this title. That's something that will never be taken away from me, even after I'm no longer the title holder.
CJ glances at the title before looking back at the lens.
Phoenix: Which brings me to why I decided to record this video. The other power that Seth bestowed upon this object is that if I can hold on to this title for two months, I can trade it in for a Non-World Title shot. So, which title would I go after? Should I take the extreme route and go for the Hardcore Title? Do I become a Phoenix of the People and pursue the People's Title? Maybe you think I'll chase the TV Title that I'll eventually win at some point. Who knows? Maybe I'll meet up with the Blaze and challenge for the Internet Title, or even team up with him and go for Tag Team gold. I guess the main question is, what does CJ Phoenix do if he successfully holds the Alpha Title for two whole months?
His tone gets more serious.
Phoenix: The answer is that I keep holding the title. My goal is for my sole Alpha Title reign to last for 92 days.
Kaiyah: Wait, what?
Phoenix: I'm not stopping at two months. As great as having any of the aforementioned titles would be, my focus is only on one. You see, if the Alpha Champ can hold on to the title for three months, then the title shot gets upgraded to a World Title shot. That's what I'm going for.
Kaiyah: Ohhhhhh.
Okay.
Phoenix: On August 28th, my first WCF title reign began. Ninety-two days after that would make three whole months. So, if you're out there watching this with your eyes or your hands on the WCF World Title, listen closely. On November 28th, I will be able to exchange the title I have right now for a shot at WCF's richest prize. If I have to wait until the following Slam to get my shot, then that'll bump my reign up to 98 days, but I'm not worried about those extra half dozen. My focus is to go the distance. I will do everything I can to ensure that I make it the whole 3 months. WCF World Champion, whomever you may be at the end of November, when those 92 days are up, I'm coming for you, no matter who you are.
He shuts off the camera and uploads the video to his channel.
Kaiyah: That's a bold challenge you just made.
Phoenix: Yes. Yes it is, but it's one I had to throw out. This is how I challenge myself to get better. Guys like Thomas Bates, Gemini Battle, and Corey Black are elite. They've sat atop the WCF as World Champions. That's the level I need to get to. I'm not there right now, but I WILL be, and that starts with Slam this Sunday. Facing three great opponents in Bishop, eXtreme, and Blaze, all of whom I believe I'm on the same level as and vice-versa, is what I wanted. It's what I needed. I need a match like this to not only raise the prestige of my title, but to also take that next step towards legitimizing myself as a serious contender for the World Title.
Kaiyah: I'm pretty sure a win would put you on some radars.
Phoenix: That's what I'm counting on. The four guys in the main event this week are some of the best that WCF has to offer, but the reality is that we're elite, second-tier wrestlers. We're the closest guys to breaking into that top tier level. I'm making sure that I cross that threshold by improving myself one day at a time. It's time to prove once again why I'm the Workhorse of the WCF.
September 2nd
Wheeling, West Virginia
The scene begins with an aerial shot of WesBanco Arena. As the camera slowly zooms in on the arena, CJ Phoenix's voice can be heard.
Phoenix: Country roads...take me home...to the place...where I belong.
The camera angle switches to a view of Phoenix walking up to the front entrance. The Alpha Title lays on his shoulder. He's dressed in his ring attire as he continues speaking to himself.
Phoenix: WCF...this Sunday...with a win...I'll walk away.
Phoenix stops when he reaches the entrance. He continues to not look at the camera.
Phoenix: Two days from now, I'll be on the other side of these doors competing in a Fatal Four Way match. The three opponents I face are by no means pushovers. Just like last week, I'll be in for a fight, and I'm ready. I've seen my opponents in the ring. I know that they're capable of putting on great matches and amazing stories. That's how I know it'll be a war. And speaking of war, congratulations Mikey eXtreme! You're gonna be the last guy coming down the ramp in the War match! You're a hell of a competitor, and you bring the heat in every match you're in. I know you have one of the most dangerous legs in the WCF. I respect you.
He takes a long pause and looks down.
Phoenix: Or at least I did respect you, until I found out what you really are. You were one of the better guys in the company ever since I first stepped foot into a WCF ring. A part of me always wanted to face off with you. I always thought that it would be great going to the extreme against Mikey eXtreme. Your ability to win and hold on to the U.S. Title made you one of WCF's greatest United States champions in the last few years. At least, statistically speaking, you were one of the greatest. Now I hold the title that, before its remodeling, got you the title of "U.S. Champ of the Year" last year. That I can't take away from you. You were great in my eyes...all the way until yesterday.
CJ thinks about something, then takes a deep breath.
Phoenix: I was reading up on you. Studying so that I could develop a gameplan. I thought I had you figured out, but then I came across something that sent a chill down my spine. You did something that would never expect from you. You sacrificed an innocent woman! And for what? A chance to have the fans wait longer before you get tossed out of the War match!? Things stop going your way and you resort to this!? I've been wanting to better those around me by being positive and playing off the threats from nutcases like The Butcher and Lilith. However, I need to go a different route with you. After what you did, I hate you. I despise what you've become, Mikey. Most of all, I'm disappointed in you. Mikey, you should be ashamed of yourself! What you did just proves that you can't get the job done on your own anymore. I know it, and so do you. That's why you did what you did. You've become desperate. No longer were you the serious threat Mikey eXtreme. You became the guy that couldn't get it done anymore. The best of your days have passed you it seems.
A few raindrops begin to fall from the overcast sky.
Phoenix: I know what that pain you're feeling is like. Fighting so hard only to have that light at the end of the tunnel fade away right as you're about to reach it. I felt that pain every time I pursued a title and walked out empty handed. It drove me to a dark place. A place that, at one point, I didn't even think I'd make it out of. You know what I did, Mike? I kept fighting. Even when my mind gave up, my soul did not! I have a fighting spirit while you're stuck with an empty soul. When that light faded, I fell. I fell hard, but I got back up. I got up determined to make my own light. Even as I speak, I continue to make my own light because that's how you overcome the slumps and bad stretches. I fought my way to where I am now, but you? You took the easy way out. How dare you disrespect your own legacy by trading in everything you've actually earned for a drug to numb the pain of your own mistakes?
The rain quickly begins to pick up.
Phoenix: This Sunday, I'm gonna make you pay for what you've done. I'm gonna do my best to try to salvage and restore what little dignity you have left. I know your secret, Mikey. You may be able to fool those like Hank Brown, but you're not fooling the Phoenix. If you thought that love tap of a kick you took from Henry Spearman was painful, you better pray to your beloved darkness that you're not the one eating a Talon Kick. You may have one of the most dangerous legs in the business, but mine IS the most dangerous. Your kick can't hold a candle to mine! At Revenge, I faced a man who had a dangerous kicking game. His name is Jordan Ciserano. I took his best shot, and STILL won the match with MY Talon Kick! This Sunday, I'm gonna do the same thing. Hit a Talon Kick, maybe two or three, and walk out victorious. Can you say the same thing? No. You can't. As much as it eats away at you on the inside, you and I both know that you're the weakest link in our Fatal Four Way match. There's a reason why you're the only one of the four of us to not be holding a belt right now. It's because you've become a shadow of your former self, while we grew out of the shadows of the WCF roster. So bring that darkness. By all means, PLEASE bring every bit of it that you possibly can! I want you to bring everything that you think you've got, so that after our match, you'll be left with nothing more that the broken shell that you are!
As the rain starts to show signs of stopping, little breaks in the clouds begin to form, letting tiny bits of sunlight shine through. CJ Phoenix lifts his head upward.
Phoenix: From the darkness to the Plague. Kevin Bishop. When we first faced off in the ring, I admit I underestimated you. I misjudged you. I thought that you was just some egotistical monstrosity plaguing the minds of the innocent. However, after our match, I sat back and watched to see if you were really a man of the people. Turns out, you are. I heard about your little freakshow, and I must say that what you do for those people is incredible. That match you had with Psychopomp a few days back was amazing. You went out there and showed the WCF Galaxy why you're champion. In fact, even in our match, we put on a hell of a show. We went out there and gave the WCF Galaxy what they deserved, and that was a great match from start to finish. In the end, you got the pinfall over me. Congratulations. You can technically say that you have defeated me. I have only myself to blame for that loss. I slipped up and didn't react quickly enough to avoid accidentally getting speared by my own teammate. I wasn't expecting it because he wasn't one of my opponents. It's a loss that I've accepted and learned from. In fact...
The rain slows to a light drizzle.
Phoenix: ...I learned something else from that match. Something that you might be just a little to proud to admit. You may have gotten the the pin according to the stat sheets, but we both know that the Black Death needed help from Lady Luck to keep me from winning that match. It wasn't just Black Death and then match over. No. It took THREE CONSECUTIVE top moves from THREE different people, one of which was my own partner in the match, to slow me down long enough for the ref to count to three. That just means that the Black Death isn't quite deadly enough to put out the flames of the Phoenix. I'm the one who has the psychological advantage between us. You see, you may have been considered the better wrestler a few weeks back, but it doesn't change the fact that I'm a better version of you.
Phoenix looks at the door once more and smirks.
Phoenix: Now I know what you may be thinking, Kev. How can a guy I beat be a better version of me? Lemme break it down for you.
He looks at his Alpha Title.
Phoenix: Let's start with this title I'm holding. You were once United States Champion, much like Mikey eXtreme. That title made you relevant. It put you on the radar. Me on the other hand, I make this championship belt relevant. I'm the reason it's worth pursuing. You had your time, and you did good, but I'll do better. How about your People's Title? I hate to break it to you, but I'm a better man of the people than you are. You may fight for the people, but I fight for them to become better people. As I said before, I respect the fact that you go as far as to reach out to what society calls "Freaks". Thing is, I reach further and deeper to more people. You want an example? How about Revenge? How about the fact that the People's Champion got booed by the very people that he's supposed to be champion of? You speak to the people. I relate to them. I fall down just like they do so that I can show them how to get back up! Ironically I also relate to you. A guy who went from fighting through a scarred and troubled past to become champion. Has some people that look up to him. People that he fights for. Difference is, I'm the REAL champion of the people because I give them a reason to strive to be the best versions of themselves.
CJ looks around before looking at his reflection in the glass.
Phoenix: Last, but not least, when you step into that ring, you're on your own. You and I both know that you can't beat me on your own. Your arsenal isn't good enough to singlehandedly stop me. The ONLY chance you have at leaving Slam victorious is if you can sneak in a quick 3 on one of the other opponents. You need help to defeat me, and you won't have any. It's every man for himself out there, and while I admire your skills in the ring, I simply cannot allow you to win this Sunday. I've come too far to let you, or anyone else in that locker room stop me! I tasted my own blood with a smile on my face to win the title I'm holding! Go ahead, brag about your ONE pinfall over me. All that will do is make you cocky. It'll make you arrogant. You'll underestimate me, and that's what will lead to your downfall. That is what makes me a better version of you. I stare my flaws down every day and I fight to turn those flaws into weapons, and my greatest weapon against you is the fact that you have reached your ceiling, while the sky's just a checkpoint for me. Kevin Bishop, if you're the Plague, then I'm the Cure.
He chuckles a little bit as the rain completely subsides.
Phoenix: Alas, there's they guy I've been referring to as "#BlazeIt", Teddy Blaze. Out of the three opponents I have, you're the guy I'm looking forward to facing the most, buddy. I know your offense and you know mine. We both know that we can work together very well. However, this isn't a tag match. This is a chance for me to beat some sense into you. For two whole weeks, I tried to get you to snap back into your senses. I even went as far as to get the fans to cheer for you. I offered a friendship, and you turned it down. You turned down a bond with the WCF Galaxy. It left me wondering why. Why, Teddy? Why would you do something so selfish. Then, I realized something. I realized that you're jealous of me. You didn't cost me a win, but I always got the pin. I carried our team on my back. I'm the one that put in the most work, and it pisses you off. It offended you personally when you realized that my star shines brighter because it was built to last longer. I know good and well that you don't like me. Honestly, I like what you bring to the ring, but you have a shitty personality. That's okay though, I'm gonna help you be the best Blaze It that you can possibly be! You already have a fan base. You mostly wrestle clean. You were once Teo Del Sol, choice of the people. You fought for the people. Lived for them. Fed off of their energy. Then, you changed.
He grabs the Alpha Title and holds it in from of him. Then, he looks down at it and sighs.
Phoenix: What happened to you, Teddy? What changed you when you were in Mexico? This isn't you, man. You're better than this. Every thing about you is pretty much the same except the inside of your head. That's what I'm going after. When Slam rolls around, I'm gonna see if I can bring out Teo because I know he's still in there. I know that we could be a good team. No, a great team! As much as my pride doesn't want to admit it, "Blazing Phoenix" has the potential to be WCF Tag Champions. Sadly, there's just one thing keeping that from happening. You. You push away everybody in hopes that it'll push you to the top. Congratulations, it got you close. Just not close enough. You're the Internet Champion, and yet even I spend more time interacting with the WCF Galaxy on social media than you. What kind of champion devalues his own title? If it were Teo holding that belt, he's be on social media day in and day out, proving to the Galaxy that he's worthy of holding the title of the interwebs. But this match. This main event match on Slam. It isn't about you title, nor is it even about a potential tag team formation. It's about four guys stepping between those ropes and beating the hell out of each other. So if you don't wanna be on my side, then that makes you another obstacle for me to overcome. Besides, the World Title's only one belt, not two.
CJ places the belt back over his shoulder.
Phoenix: I have a poem I wish to share with you. Listen closely.
How do I win the match? Let me count the ways.
Who's gonna stop me? Not Teddy Blaze.
He enjoys taking flight. A trait he shares with me.
At full speed he runs, attempting the Blazing Knee.
A strike most deadly, if it connects.
He's a formidable foe, exactly what I'd expect.
However, his strike, no matter how heated
Just won't be enough to extinguish the Phoenix.
How about the one people mutter "cultist" under their breath?
The man with the move that he calls the Black Death.
You see, The Black Death was a force in its prime.
A death most swift in a short amount of time.
However, I've taken your finisher of doom
And from it, I learned. Now to it, I'm immune.
I have now conquered death, so the next time we meet,
Your only option will be to leave in defeat.
Last, and least, eXtreme the Mike.
Oh how I'd love to put your head on a pike.
Or shove it up your ass, wouldn't take that far
For you to see how full of shit you are.
Even if you mark the spot with all of your might,
My kick is still better, and we both know I'm right.
You're tough, but I'm tougher, and on Sunday night
Your darkness will be vanquished, destroyed by the light.
Gentlemen, you may find what I say surprising,
but despite my success, the Phoenix is still rising.
I may be good today, but tomorrow, I'll be better.
This pattern will continue forever and ever.
So I ask you, which of you lives without fear?
Who thinks they're strong enough to survive getting Speared?
Doesn't matter, because once Phoenix lands a Talon Kick.
I'll get the pin, and it'll be over...
CJ Phoenix hits a Talon Kick on the camera, causing it to flip out of the cameraman's hands and crash onto the ground. He then crouches down and looks into the lens for the first time as it begins fading in and out.
Phoenix: Just. That. Quick.
The camera cuts to static before shutting off completely.
