Post by Allen Guiliano on Sept 25, 2010 12:58:56 GMT -5
The media frenzy revolving around the wrestling world has now begun. The WAR roster has been released, entrance numbers have been assigned, and all hell is about to break loose inside a WCF. There isn't a person on place on the planet that is free from the questions that will ultimately surround this once in a lifetime event. Sure, it happens every year, but the possibilities of what will happen inside the ring are simply unfathomable. Each year numerous tactics are tried and numerous tactics ultimately fail. There will be only one winner, better yet, there will be only one survivor. Last year's champion will look to repeat as the WAR winner but there are several others that are hellbent on preventing just that. The winner from a year ago is one of only two entrants to have won this event before and know what it takes to be the literal, last man standing. The match itself may take place in Sacramento, but the swarm of cameras, reporters, bloggers, and other so called “media members” have made their way to Las Vegas to get a word with perhaps the most famous man in sports entertainment today.
The media contingent have gathered outside the doors of The Guiliano Hotel and Casino in the heart of Las Vegas waiting to get their opportunity at a quote, an interview, or perhaps even a glimpse of the current WCF World and Hardcore Champion and last year's WAR winner, Allen Guiliano. The Italian has seemingly been secluding himself from the outside world prior to this event, but an announced press conference was issued less than 24 hours ago, promising a statement at a set time. That time is less than 15 minutes away and the line is beginning to grow anxious and impatient for they are not even being allowed in to set up prior to the event.
A camera stationed inside the press room shows the final set up taking place. The podium has been positioned, the microphones has been checked, and the banners of the WCF and Guiliano Hotel and Casino have been perfectly positioned so they can and will be seen from every possible angle in the room. Both flags of the United States and Italy have been placed on either side of the podium and the stage lights have been carefully positioned behind it. However, noticeably missing from the room is the main attraction himself and the clock continues to tick down until the doors will be opened and the stampede of media will begin. The inside camera, as if in some kind of fast forward taping, begins to snake through the building in search of Guiliano. It makes its way over the casino floor, past the numerous table games, slot machines, and sports books, before continuing upstairs to the businesses offices. Each door is opened, but there is no sign of the man in charge. The camera then moves back outside into the hallway and to an elevator making a short trip up higher into the edifice and up a quick flight of stairs. A smaller, black metal door awaits at the top step and it is slowly pushed open as the camera's speed returns to normal as it reaches the roof of the building. Standing against the ledge, looking out over the Vegas landscape, in his usual pinstriped suit and wingtips is the one and only Allen Guiliano. He smirks noticing the camera behind him.
“I was dreading the moment that the world would come looking for me. Actually, I wasn't dreading the looking part as much as the finding. Something tells me I am about 10 minutes away from that press conference that I promised the WCF I would give to the masses. I suppose it is only fair for the reigning World and Hardcore Champion and previous WAR winner to give his thoughts on what will be the last event of his wrestling career. To tell you the truth, I am only trying to delay the inevitable. Do people really think that I want to leave this federation after everything that I have accomplished and everything that I could accomplish in the future? No. There is more behind it than simply going out on top, but I figure the only way to leave a final mark was to go in WAR as #1 and be the last man standing. To truly defeat the entire roster and survive the most demanding event in sports entertainment after being the first man into the ring would set the bar at its absolute highest and would be an achievement that no one could ever surpass, but only equal.
My career doesn't get any better than what it is right now. I am in possession of the only two belts that ever matter to me in any federation and I am the one with the target on my back going into the ring on Monday night at ARCA Arena. Other wrestlers are going out there to not only win WAR, but to spoil the retirement of Slickie T. For some, I'm sure the latter is much more important than the former. Imagine what it would mean to anyone that will enter the ring at WAR to eliminate the man with two titles around his waist. It would give even the newest newcomer legendary status in this federation. For the veterans it would be the highlight of their career and give them that boost back to the top of the Wrestling Championship Federation. You see, the reason I am standing up here on top of this wonderful establishment that I created is because right here is literally where I am at this moment in time...on top of the world. I am on top of my game as a businessman, I am on top of my game as a sports entertainer, and I am top of my game as a representative of the great country of Italy. Everything I have done and everything that I will do will be for that great land, including repeating as the WAR winner. There is nothing that I could possibly do to even begin to repay the Italian people for all the support they have given me over the years, but I am sure as hell going to do everything I can to try.”
He slowly begins to place his foot on the ledge, lifting himself even higher into the air and standing directly in the middle of the enormous, glowing golden script “G” that is behind him and easily viewed from miles away. The Italian extends his arms in the normal “T” formation and his WCF title belts dangle from his wrists.
“Everyone get a good look at this because it will be the last time you will ever be seeing the “T” being put before the “G”. Throughout my entire career in this federation, I have been a businessman first and a wrestler second, will, this week, it will be just the opposite. Take that in for just a moment. I am a double-champion, a past WAR winner, and the face of this federation by making it my second priority. Simply put...there is more to this man than meets the eye. There is an entirely new level within me that I haven't shown the WCF inside that squared circle. At WAR, that level will be realized and for once in my career, I will be a wrestler first. I have made it very clear that I do not believe it will be easy to end my career on the ultimate high note, but I also see no reason why it cannot be done. I have been out to prove myself in this match ever since winning from the final entry position just a year ago. Of course no matter how I perform or how dominant I am inside the ring, there are always going to be those that doubt my ability, my drive, and my accomplishments. This time around, even though I feel I am covering all evidence that could possibly be used against me should I make it back-to-back WAR victories, I'm sure there is someone out there that will come up with something in order to spite me. And to those individuals, go ahead and fire away, because after this week, there will be no words spat back at you because I simply won't care. For the other 22 entrants, do your best because this is your FINAL chance to say earn the right to say that you eliminated the current World Champion, your final chance to put that flower in your cap and say that you eliminated a former WAR winner, and your ONLY chance to claim you were the one that sent Slickie T into retirement. What a compliment that would be to any man out there, including the greats like Logan and CD, to be able to say they were the one that forced me to retire. Of course that won't be true, but after time has passed and the real reason is forgotten, their claim may start to be taken as truth.”
Guiliano then hops back down from his perch, tossing his title belts, one at a time, over each shoulder and glances at the gold wrist watch on his left hand before proceeding to the door that will lead him back down into the building. He opens the door, the camera still following over his right shoulder.
“For the first time in my career, I feel that I have earned the right to be arrogant. This is my swan song, this is my FINAL match, and going into it, I hold not one, but two championship belts in possession and one of them is the top title in the Wrestling Championship Federation. Sure, all these words may be seen as “bragging” and my opponents will say that I am “talking down to them”, but you know what, this time around, I don't care. The target has already been placed on my back and 22 others are already after it, so why not make that target a little bigger? I have put myself in this precarious position for a reason and I am hellbent on defending it. Last year, I worked tirelessly to earn that final spot and give myself the best chance to earn my right at a World Title shot, including going up against one of my greatest friends from the XGWO, Dake Ken. It was hard to find it inside myself to actually compete against him, but when that opening bell rings, my Sicilian instinct simply takes over and it doesn't matter who is inside those ropes with me, friend or foe, they are going to get the same unwelcome treatment.”
As he continues down the stairwell he draws closer and closer to the door leading into the room that has been prepared for his press conference. Guiliano realizes this and quickly makes adjustments to his tie and suit jacket as well as to the belts that are strapped over his shoulders. A pair of publicists wait at the door and quickly hand him a stack of papers for him to look over, telling him who is inside, what organizations they represent, relevant information about the WCF and his opponents, and some answers to questions that will almost certainly be asked.
He waits against the wall, ready for the signal to enter the room, taking a deep breath and preparing himself for what will be his final press conference regarding his career has a professional wrestler. The door that he rests beside slowly opens and one of his most trusted security personnel simply gives him a nod and a smile of confidence signaling that the time has come for him to address the media. Guiliano gives one final sigh and enters the door, almost immediately blinded by the combination of flashbulbs and the bright lights beaming down on him from above. A speaker has been at the podium, keeping those in attendance at bay and entertained for the last several minutes and gives a warm smiling, realizing he can now introduce the guest of honor.
Speaker: “Ladies and gentleman, thank you very much for your patience. At this time, I am pleased, and humbled, to introduce to you, the man of the hour, the owner of the Guiliano Hotel and Casino, and reigning Wrestling Championship Federation World and Hardcore Champion....Mr. Allen Guiliano!”
The Italian forces a smile, but proudly wears the titles over his shoulder as he approaches the podium, clears his throat and speaks into the numerous microphones that have been set up for the event.
“Thank you all for showing up there this evening and making yourself a part of my final press conference as a professional wrestler. Before all of you get worked up and feel the need to ask questions, I have a few things I would like to say first. First off, just to get this out of the way, please address me as Mr. Guiliano or Allen, I know that as a wrestler I am better known by my in-ring alias, Slickie T, but when it comes to moments like this, there is no difference between the two. Sure, I put on a show and act a little differently when I lace up those wrestling boots, but tonight, that separation is non existent. I have tried my best to keep the alias of Slickie T as his own person and his own entity, but tonight, and with the events that are coming up, it is simply too personal of a matter to allow them to be separate. Tonight, you are truly getting the man behind the name. Secondly, this will TRULY by my last event in the world of sports entertainment. I know I said that a couple weeks ago in an interview with Hank Brown, but that night did not end as planned and was certainly no way to end a successful career here in the WCF. I thought about what had happened that night and how I had simply sprung this retirement onto Seth Lerch and the rest of the organization and it wasn't fair to them or anyone else involved. I had talks with several key individuals, let them know of my intentions and figured that if there was any event that I would want to be my last as a professional wrestler, it would be the WAR event. I have wrestled for many titles and been in several bouts with multiple opponents and titles on the line, but there is no bigger event that I get up for than WAR. It is truly an event where the best man comes out on top. And what a better way for me to end not only my time in the WCF, but my time as a professional wrestler. It is a win-win situation for me and even if I come up short of winning the event from the #1 entry position, at least I attempted the unthinkable. No, I do not expect any kind of recognition or standing ovation from the WCF faithful unless I come out on top and I hope that there is nothing like that planned for me. In this business you continue fighting until the final bell and Monday night my final bell will truly sound. Now, before questions begin, there is an order that was handed out before I got here of what news outlets would be granted question rights and I trust that all of you will abide by that list. So, with that being said, I will now field any and all questions.”
“Mr. Guiliano, my name is Andy Smith and was just wondering what strategy that you would employ going into the match on Monday night having been a past winner. Is there a certain strategy that you use and if so, does it change now that you know you will be the first man in the ring?”
“When it comes to a match like this, there isn't really a certain strategy that you can even hope to employ. There is so much chaos going on around you that any attempt at sticking to a set plan would surely lead to elimination. If I had to give a strategy or name a tactic that seems to work, it can simply be summed it in one word; survival. I know that sounds extremely vague and a very incomplete answer, but honestly, it is the best I can give you. The only thing that you have to do when you enter that ring in an event of this magnitude is to be aware of your surroundings, trust your instinct, and simply survive. Last year I have the good fortune of being the last competitor in the ring and I would be a liar if I told you that it didn't help my chances of winning the WAR event, but I will also tell you that it was only part of the reason I was able to come out with the victory. This time I will not have that luxury, and have chosen to take that final spot completely out of my arsenal, but I will tell you one thing, my instincts have NEVER been as sharp inside a wrestling ring as they are right now. They have always been keen when it comes to pure survival, and perhaps that is one reason why I have been so successful as a wrestler, especially in the hardcore division, but it takes a little something extra to hone those instincts to fully adapt to the in-ring experience, especially in the WAR match. The amount of action that takes place around you, knowing that every man that enters the ring will be looking to eliminate me is something that cannot be practiced and can only be refined by experience. Luckily I have been in this match before and know what to expect, but many competitors are rookies to this match, and I feel sorry for them, because by the time they realize what they have truly gotten themselves into, they have been eliminated. It happens that fast and at any moment in time any of the wrestlers that are in the ring could hit that one maneuver that could send me down for the count. Sure, there are certain competitors that I am concerned about and I have been hit with and kicked out of several finishing moves before, but that is when I at least had some sort of idea that it was coming, in this match, that luxury is nowhere to be found.”
“Mr. Guiliano, Jessica Cross here, you mentioned there are competitors that are you concerned about on Monday night. Who are those competitors and do you think that winning last year's event helps you at all going into this year?”
“I think that it should be fairly obvious who I see as potential threats, but everyone in this match can make that big elimination that changes the entire face of the competition. Obviously the man I am most concerned with is Logan. He is a living legend to say the least and was the man that very nearly eliminated me from last year's event. Had it not been for the Sicilian heart that beats inside my chest, there is no doubt that I would have been done in by that Connector. That maneuver is devastating and to this day, I have no idea how I managed to get a shoulder up. To say that Logan is a great competitor is an understatement and no matter what kind of propaganda or crazy things he might spew while addressing you during the days leading up to this match, I will have the utmost respect for him and for what he has done for this federation. Without Logan, there would be no WCF. Period. He is the only other man in the event that knows what it is like to win it and he has done it on multiple occasions. To tell you that those facts aren't at least hidden somewhere in the back of my mind would be a lie.
Greenfever is another opponent that I see as a real threat to winning this event and becoming the next new face of the WCF. I have faced him several times before and was able to come out on top in a majority of those matches, but he is also the man that very nearly ended my career an in this very building nonetheless. I was literally a broken man after that encounter with the beast they call Greenfever and I vow to never let that happen again. My revenge has been more than gained and I will fight like hell to make sure that he is not the one to eliminate me at WAR. However, unlike Logan, I simply have no respect for a man that carries himself in the manner that Greenfever does. His use of intimidation and simply disgusting acts may work against many, but what has he done to show me that he is anything but a mere beatable mortal? When I have been at my very best, he is unable to match my ability and I am sure that he will celebrate Monday, the day that I finally left the federation so that he would have his rightful chance to FINALLY become the best. As long as Slickie T has been around, Greenfever has always been second best and that is as good as it will get on Monday night...second best.
Jay Price is also a name that should be mentioned and although he has certainly been caught up in his feud with Logan, remember that he was third in his event as a rookie last year. He was named the 2009 Newcomer of the Year for a reason and if case you have forgotten, he beat out yours truly to win that very title. The man has talent, but as long as he continues to focus on Logan and not the ultimate road that his ahead of him, he will not have what it takes to win this event, because you see, Jay, Logan is not the one you are going to have to worry about on Monday night. As long as I am in the ring when you make your way down that ramp, Logan will be the least of your worries. I know what you are capable of and you better believe that I want to give you no chance to make a run at winning the WAR event like you did a year ago. This time I know what you bring to the table and this time I will be after all those records that you broke in 2009. I will not only eliminate you from the WAR match, I will eliminate you from the record books as well. Cherish that Newcomer of the Year award because it is and will be the only thing you can ever hold over me.
Oblivion and Johnny Reb are two names that will be stored away on Monday night as well. You simply cannot take those two former World Champions for granted, especially when it means they can have that belt back around their waist for a second time. Oblivion has shown his still and the pure evil that he possess in the past and Reb has more experience than almost everyone in this match, save for Logan and Creeping Death. I respect a guy with that much experience and respect a guy that simply knows how to win and Reb is both of those things. The Inveterate Confederate as simply been waiting for an opening to reclaim his spot at the top of this federation and what better way to do it than with a victory in Sacramento on Monday night. Neither of those men should be taken lightly and I will have an eye on both of them at all times.
Others that I consider wild cards in this event and I think could definitely cause some trouble or perhaps even win the thing are Jason Kash and Creeping Death. Both are guys that I consider to be flying a bit under the radar, but could find the right combination at any moment. Although neither one of them may win, something tells me that either one, or perhaps both, will have a say in who does.
To answer the other part of your question, I think it helps to an extent, but not as much as one would think. As I explained earlier, last year I was the last man in the ring and had a bit of an advantage in that regard, this year, I will be the first. Obviously I was the one that wanted it that way, but I don't think it is that winning last year's event will be the biggest advantage, I think it will simply be the experienced I gained from being in that event. Experience is invaluable in a situation like this. It does help that there are a few less competitors on this year's match, but I think the talent level is just the same if not deeper this year. You never know which one of those midcarders is going to take the step up to the next level and you never know which competitor at the highest level has been holding out and is ready to give it just that much more for the WAR event. This match is a career maker and everyone out there in every federation knows it. I'm sure a lot of you out there would agree that without winning WAR VIII, I would not even be close to having the prestige surrounding me that I do today. If there is an analogy I could use, it is like having a great NFL player without a Super Bowl ring. This is our Super Bowl and if you haven't won this event, even if you are a sure Hall of Fame inductee, you feel like your career is incomplete. If I had to choose between losing EVERY World Title match of my career or winning WAR once, I would easily pick the WAR victory. No doubt.”
“Allen, this is Vince O'Connor, blogger from IKnowItsFake.com, if there was one match in your entire career that you would say changed the way you viewed your career or made you really think about what you needed to do to achieve what you have to do, what would you say that match was?”
“Vince, that is one hell of a question and it may take me a moment to come up with an answer. I'm not sure if there is ONE match that had that kind of impact, but perhaps a combination of matches. If I had to point to one early in my career that really pushed me into the limelight of a federation was my third of four matches with Eric Tione. Tione and I were big rivals in the XHWF and he was one of those guys that seemed to have my number, no matter what I threw at him. Every time it looked like I was going to pull off the victory over him, he would find a way to get a shoulder up, turn the tide of the match, and keep me on my back for that three count. It was frustrating, but once I got over the fact that he was simply the better man, I began to change my outlook going into those matches. I was under the impression and was a firm believer in that, eventually, without changing a thing, that I was going to come out on top and that was the exact opposite of what I needed to be doing. After losing against him for the third time, all three for the XHWF World Title, I realized that I needed to get better and that as talented as I was, it simply wasn't enough. I went back to the gym, honed my skills physically and mentally, and was able to come out with a victory in our fourth match and win my very first World Championship in any federation.
The second match that stands out in my mind is a loss that I suffered to Lee Todd in the XGWO. I was one of the biggest names in that federation the entire time I was there. The federation had just reopened and I was buzz-sawing my way through the roster, dominating each match I was in, even against the top tier talent and thought I was destined to win the World Championship. However, in a #1 contender's match between Lee and I, he abruptly halted my run to the top and earned a victory over me at one of the pay-per-view events. That loss felt like I had been hit with a ton of bricks. I knew that I had what it took to beat the current World Champion in that federation, but Lee was always in my way. He easily won the belt, but I found myself in a stand still in the #2 spot. I was better than everyone else, had the confidence to better than everyone else, but simply couldn't overcome Lee Todd. Unfortunately that was our first and only match and as good as it was, there was never a rematch due to the closing of the federation. I was a member of a stable called the Untouchables, which may be the best stable ever assembled, and I as I began to concentrate on the success of the stable, I reluctantly took myself out of the World Title picture and never got another shot at it as the organization folded just a few weeks later. However, that match will forever remind me that I simply wasn’t good enough. I am a proud member of the XGWO Hall of Fame, but I will forever regret not holding the World Championship in that federation.
The other match that seriously made me think about just how good of a wrestler I was, was the first match I had against Torture right here in the WCF. The first match, the one-on-one match, where even having all the confidence and all the momentum wasn't enough to knock off perhaps the biggest name in the business. The mental war that was fought between us was something of legend and the match was even better. It had gone through so much to even earn my way into that match with him that I thought I was bulletproof and was a lock to win the World Title. I had won the United States Title a few months before I made my run at the top prize here in the Wrestling Championship Federation, I was on an unbelievable winning streak, I defeated Logan and Jack of Blades in back-to-back weeks, I defeated Dake Ken for the final spot in WAR VIII and then, I won the whole damn thing despite the formation of the Team of Torture that was assembled to stop me from every getting a chance to face Torture. I had overcome every obstacle, jumped over every hurdle, and defied every odd, BUT, when it all came down to it, I just wasn't good enough to be Torture. It was a huge setback, but it also motivated more than any other loss I had suffered. If I would have won that match, I do not think I would be standing before you here today as I think my career would have been much shorter. All that loss did was motivate me to be better than Torture, not only in one match, but throughout my entire career. Obviously I will not achieve that feat, due to some unfortunate circumstances, but hopefully my name will at least be mentionable with his when it is all said and done. Part of the reason I wanted to be the first one in the WAR match was to do something that Torture or anyone has ever done and that is win from that #1 spot. Even after his passing, and God rest his soul, the competition between us still exists. There was that much pure hate between us, but with that being said, there was also a great amount of respect. I hated the man, but damn, I respected him so much more.
Obviously there are other matches in my career, mostly wins, that I think have affected me, but those three are really the ones I look back on for motivation. I think the matches I had with Chad Evans are also worth mentioning since the tie that we had was one of the best matches in the history of the WCF. Chad pushed me to my absolute limit and I think that if he would have stayed here longer, that our rivalry would have surpassed the one I had with Torture, but then again, Torture and I were so similar in that we were successful businessmen, yet so different in how we viewed this federation, that I don't know if surpassing it would have been possible.”
“Mr. Guiliano, Hugh Cobb here. You have been able to sit back and listen to what some of the other competitors have had to say. Does anything surprise you about what they are saying about this event? Is there anyone that has caught your attention?”
“I may be viewed as arrogant for answering this way, but no, there isn't one person out there that has my attention. Most of the newcomers, as I have said before, have no idea what they are getting themselves into and I think it shows when they are cutting promos and it seems like some of the veterans are losing perspective as to what this event really means. They are too busy worrying about their currently feuds and their current rivalries to see what they should really be worried about and that is the man standing right here before this podium. I have yet to see my name really mentioned for more than just a side note and I think that is a huge mistake. The only man that seems to really get it is Logan and I certainly expected that with all the experience he has had in this event. Some of what he said is absolutely true about how he has stood the test of time and has outlasted guys like Torture and myself, but on the flip side, he hasn't been competing week in and week out either. He has simply jumped into this WAR match for its prestige and as much as I despise that tactic, I certainly see where he is coming from. Why not simply save yourself for a match of this magnitude? The more wins you have in this match, the more fame and fortune that you gain, regardless of what you do in the other 11 months of the year.
Hugh, hearing what others have said motivates me that much more to run the table on Monday night. Sure, there is a lot of motivation already, but it seems I am being, almost ignored, because others are focused on their own personal business and own personal vendettas and that is completely the wrong approach. Go ahead and use all that energy to eliminate the guy you are feuding with. See if I care. Actually, I encourage it, because it will help to alleviate some of the disadvantage I have by being the first competitor down the ramp. The only man that ANYONE should be worried about is The Ace of Hardcore. I am the only man in the entire field that is undefeated in WAR matches. I know that isn't saying much since I have only been in one event, but where is the love for the reigning War winner? Not only am I last year's winner, I am the current World Champion! Humble me! Please! You can ignore me all you want in your promos and your ramblings, but the one place where I will not be ignored is in ARCO Arena on Monday night in Sacramento. This is my FINAL match and I have never been so focused in my entire career and those who will be my competitors seem to be focused on so many other things. Let me give you a bit of advice, I am focused on each and every one of you, shouldn't you be focused on me? Am I not a threat anymore? Am I being overlooked? Do my accomplishments mean nothing anymore or is it simply that if I am not spoken of or not mentioned that I will up and disappear on Monday night? Perhaps it is some kind of reverse psychology that everyone, except for Logan is using. Whatever it is, it makes me laugh and feel some pity for all 22 others. Maybe it is because everyone out there thinks it is impossible to win after being the first man in the ring? Well, look at me. Do you think “impossible” is a word that is in my vocabulary? Please, I have overcome much greater odds in my life than what I will be up against at WAR. Maybe I haven't been up against it quite like this in my wrestling career, but I certainly have as a young man running around on the streets of Palermo, as a teenager in the Bronx, and as a young entrepreneur in Las Vegas. “Impossible” simply doesn't exist to me, because I am stubborn enough to convince myself that I can do ANYTHING and overcome ANY obstacle that is thrown in my way. Don't forget that I was the one that wanted to enter first. I was the one that said I could defeat the entire roster. I was the one that didn't respect ANY of you and NOONE out there has a response? This is it for me and not one of you seems to care. I know that WAR isn't like any other match on the planet, but this is the FINAL match of my career. The last time that the people in the WCF will see me compete. A chance for me to make wrestling HISTORY! Where is the love?! Where are the naysayers and arrogant guys in the locker room that will be out to prove me wrong? I have been humble and respected each of you ever since I have arrived here, but this week, all but one of you disappoint me. And the one that doesn't is the man that knows how to win this thing. We are the two former WAR winners and one is perhaps the most recognizable name the WCF has ever seen and all others are looking the other way. Well, keep looking in that direction, because when you turn around, an Omerta will be waiting for you. Perhaps just being a part of this match is enough for some, I don't know. For me, well, I think everyone here knows what it is about for me. Next question!”
Guiliano seems to have worked himself into quite the fervor answering the last question and his face is nothing but focus at this point. He looks out over the crowd, quickly identifying the where the next question will come from as the screen fades to black and the WCF logo appears.
The media contingent have gathered outside the doors of The Guiliano Hotel and Casino in the heart of Las Vegas waiting to get their opportunity at a quote, an interview, or perhaps even a glimpse of the current WCF World and Hardcore Champion and last year's WAR winner, Allen Guiliano. The Italian has seemingly been secluding himself from the outside world prior to this event, but an announced press conference was issued less than 24 hours ago, promising a statement at a set time. That time is less than 15 minutes away and the line is beginning to grow anxious and impatient for they are not even being allowed in to set up prior to the event.
A camera stationed inside the press room shows the final set up taking place. The podium has been positioned, the microphones has been checked, and the banners of the WCF and Guiliano Hotel and Casino have been perfectly positioned so they can and will be seen from every possible angle in the room. Both flags of the United States and Italy have been placed on either side of the podium and the stage lights have been carefully positioned behind it. However, noticeably missing from the room is the main attraction himself and the clock continues to tick down until the doors will be opened and the stampede of media will begin. The inside camera, as if in some kind of fast forward taping, begins to snake through the building in search of Guiliano. It makes its way over the casino floor, past the numerous table games, slot machines, and sports books, before continuing upstairs to the businesses offices. Each door is opened, but there is no sign of the man in charge. The camera then moves back outside into the hallway and to an elevator making a short trip up higher into the edifice and up a quick flight of stairs. A smaller, black metal door awaits at the top step and it is slowly pushed open as the camera's speed returns to normal as it reaches the roof of the building. Standing against the ledge, looking out over the Vegas landscape, in his usual pinstriped suit and wingtips is the one and only Allen Guiliano. He smirks noticing the camera behind him.
“I was dreading the moment that the world would come looking for me. Actually, I wasn't dreading the looking part as much as the finding. Something tells me I am about 10 minutes away from that press conference that I promised the WCF I would give to the masses. I suppose it is only fair for the reigning World and Hardcore Champion and previous WAR winner to give his thoughts on what will be the last event of his wrestling career. To tell you the truth, I am only trying to delay the inevitable. Do people really think that I want to leave this federation after everything that I have accomplished and everything that I could accomplish in the future? No. There is more behind it than simply going out on top, but I figure the only way to leave a final mark was to go in WAR as #1 and be the last man standing. To truly defeat the entire roster and survive the most demanding event in sports entertainment after being the first man into the ring would set the bar at its absolute highest and would be an achievement that no one could ever surpass, but only equal.
My career doesn't get any better than what it is right now. I am in possession of the only two belts that ever matter to me in any federation and I am the one with the target on my back going into the ring on Monday night at ARCA Arena. Other wrestlers are going out there to not only win WAR, but to spoil the retirement of Slickie T. For some, I'm sure the latter is much more important than the former. Imagine what it would mean to anyone that will enter the ring at WAR to eliminate the man with two titles around his waist. It would give even the newest newcomer legendary status in this federation. For the veterans it would be the highlight of their career and give them that boost back to the top of the Wrestling Championship Federation. You see, the reason I am standing up here on top of this wonderful establishment that I created is because right here is literally where I am at this moment in time...on top of the world. I am on top of my game as a businessman, I am on top of my game as a sports entertainer, and I am top of my game as a representative of the great country of Italy. Everything I have done and everything that I will do will be for that great land, including repeating as the WAR winner. There is nothing that I could possibly do to even begin to repay the Italian people for all the support they have given me over the years, but I am sure as hell going to do everything I can to try.”
He slowly begins to place his foot on the ledge, lifting himself even higher into the air and standing directly in the middle of the enormous, glowing golden script “G” that is behind him and easily viewed from miles away. The Italian extends his arms in the normal “T” formation and his WCF title belts dangle from his wrists.
“Everyone get a good look at this because it will be the last time you will ever be seeing the “T” being put before the “G”. Throughout my entire career in this federation, I have been a businessman first and a wrestler second, will, this week, it will be just the opposite. Take that in for just a moment. I am a double-champion, a past WAR winner, and the face of this federation by making it my second priority. Simply put...there is more to this man than meets the eye. There is an entirely new level within me that I haven't shown the WCF inside that squared circle. At WAR, that level will be realized and for once in my career, I will be a wrestler first. I have made it very clear that I do not believe it will be easy to end my career on the ultimate high note, but I also see no reason why it cannot be done. I have been out to prove myself in this match ever since winning from the final entry position just a year ago. Of course no matter how I perform or how dominant I am inside the ring, there are always going to be those that doubt my ability, my drive, and my accomplishments. This time around, even though I feel I am covering all evidence that could possibly be used against me should I make it back-to-back WAR victories, I'm sure there is someone out there that will come up with something in order to spite me. And to those individuals, go ahead and fire away, because after this week, there will be no words spat back at you because I simply won't care. For the other 22 entrants, do your best because this is your FINAL chance to say earn the right to say that you eliminated the current World Champion, your final chance to put that flower in your cap and say that you eliminated a former WAR winner, and your ONLY chance to claim you were the one that sent Slickie T into retirement. What a compliment that would be to any man out there, including the greats like Logan and CD, to be able to say they were the one that forced me to retire. Of course that won't be true, but after time has passed and the real reason is forgotten, their claim may start to be taken as truth.”
Guiliano then hops back down from his perch, tossing his title belts, one at a time, over each shoulder and glances at the gold wrist watch on his left hand before proceeding to the door that will lead him back down into the building. He opens the door, the camera still following over his right shoulder.
“For the first time in my career, I feel that I have earned the right to be arrogant. This is my swan song, this is my FINAL match, and going into it, I hold not one, but two championship belts in possession and one of them is the top title in the Wrestling Championship Federation. Sure, all these words may be seen as “bragging” and my opponents will say that I am “talking down to them”, but you know what, this time around, I don't care. The target has already been placed on my back and 22 others are already after it, so why not make that target a little bigger? I have put myself in this precarious position for a reason and I am hellbent on defending it. Last year, I worked tirelessly to earn that final spot and give myself the best chance to earn my right at a World Title shot, including going up against one of my greatest friends from the XGWO, Dake Ken. It was hard to find it inside myself to actually compete against him, but when that opening bell rings, my Sicilian instinct simply takes over and it doesn't matter who is inside those ropes with me, friend or foe, they are going to get the same unwelcome treatment.”
As he continues down the stairwell he draws closer and closer to the door leading into the room that has been prepared for his press conference. Guiliano realizes this and quickly makes adjustments to his tie and suit jacket as well as to the belts that are strapped over his shoulders. A pair of publicists wait at the door and quickly hand him a stack of papers for him to look over, telling him who is inside, what organizations they represent, relevant information about the WCF and his opponents, and some answers to questions that will almost certainly be asked.
He waits against the wall, ready for the signal to enter the room, taking a deep breath and preparing himself for what will be his final press conference regarding his career has a professional wrestler. The door that he rests beside slowly opens and one of his most trusted security personnel simply gives him a nod and a smile of confidence signaling that the time has come for him to address the media. Guiliano gives one final sigh and enters the door, almost immediately blinded by the combination of flashbulbs and the bright lights beaming down on him from above. A speaker has been at the podium, keeping those in attendance at bay and entertained for the last several minutes and gives a warm smiling, realizing he can now introduce the guest of honor.
Speaker: “Ladies and gentleman, thank you very much for your patience. At this time, I am pleased, and humbled, to introduce to you, the man of the hour, the owner of the Guiliano Hotel and Casino, and reigning Wrestling Championship Federation World and Hardcore Champion....Mr. Allen Guiliano!”
The Italian forces a smile, but proudly wears the titles over his shoulder as he approaches the podium, clears his throat and speaks into the numerous microphones that have been set up for the event.
“Thank you all for showing up there this evening and making yourself a part of my final press conference as a professional wrestler. Before all of you get worked up and feel the need to ask questions, I have a few things I would like to say first. First off, just to get this out of the way, please address me as Mr. Guiliano or Allen, I know that as a wrestler I am better known by my in-ring alias, Slickie T, but when it comes to moments like this, there is no difference between the two. Sure, I put on a show and act a little differently when I lace up those wrestling boots, but tonight, that separation is non existent. I have tried my best to keep the alias of Slickie T as his own person and his own entity, but tonight, and with the events that are coming up, it is simply too personal of a matter to allow them to be separate. Tonight, you are truly getting the man behind the name. Secondly, this will TRULY by my last event in the world of sports entertainment. I know I said that a couple weeks ago in an interview with Hank Brown, but that night did not end as planned and was certainly no way to end a successful career here in the WCF. I thought about what had happened that night and how I had simply sprung this retirement onto Seth Lerch and the rest of the organization and it wasn't fair to them or anyone else involved. I had talks with several key individuals, let them know of my intentions and figured that if there was any event that I would want to be my last as a professional wrestler, it would be the WAR event. I have wrestled for many titles and been in several bouts with multiple opponents and titles on the line, but there is no bigger event that I get up for than WAR. It is truly an event where the best man comes out on top. And what a better way for me to end not only my time in the WCF, but my time as a professional wrestler. It is a win-win situation for me and even if I come up short of winning the event from the #1 entry position, at least I attempted the unthinkable. No, I do not expect any kind of recognition or standing ovation from the WCF faithful unless I come out on top and I hope that there is nothing like that planned for me. In this business you continue fighting until the final bell and Monday night my final bell will truly sound. Now, before questions begin, there is an order that was handed out before I got here of what news outlets would be granted question rights and I trust that all of you will abide by that list. So, with that being said, I will now field any and all questions.”
“Mr. Guiliano, my name is Andy Smith and was just wondering what strategy that you would employ going into the match on Monday night having been a past winner. Is there a certain strategy that you use and if so, does it change now that you know you will be the first man in the ring?”
“When it comes to a match like this, there isn't really a certain strategy that you can even hope to employ. There is so much chaos going on around you that any attempt at sticking to a set plan would surely lead to elimination. If I had to give a strategy or name a tactic that seems to work, it can simply be summed it in one word; survival. I know that sounds extremely vague and a very incomplete answer, but honestly, it is the best I can give you. The only thing that you have to do when you enter that ring in an event of this magnitude is to be aware of your surroundings, trust your instinct, and simply survive. Last year I have the good fortune of being the last competitor in the ring and I would be a liar if I told you that it didn't help my chances of winning the WAR event, but I will also tell you that it was only part of the reason I was able to come out with the victory. This time I will not have that luxury, and have chosen to take that final spot completely out of my arsenal, but I will tell you one thing, my instincts have NEVER been as sharp inside a wrestling ring as they are right now. They have always been keen when it comes to pure survival, and perhaps that is one reason why I have been so successful as a wrestler, especially in the hardcore division, but it takes a little something extra to hone those instincts to fully adapt to the in-ring experience, especially in the WAR match. The amount of action that takes place around you, knowing that every man that enters the ring will be looking to eliminate me is something that cannot be practiced and can only be refined by experience. Luckily I have been in this match before and know what to expect, but many competitors are rookies to this match, and I feel sorry for them, because by the time they realize what they have truly gotten themselves into, they have been eliminated. It happens that fast and at any moment in time any of the wrestlers that are in the ring could hit that one maneuver that could send me down for the count. Sure, there are certain competitors that I am concerned about and I have been hit with and kicked out of several finishing moves before, but that is when I at least had some sort of idea that it was coming, in this match, that luxury is nowhere to be found.”
“Mr. Guiliano, Jessica Cross here, you mentioned there are competitors that are you concerned about on Monday night. Who are those competitors and do you think that winning last year's event helps you at all going into this year?”
“I think that it should be fairly obvious who I see as potential threats, but everyone in this match can make that big elimination that changes the entire face of the competition. Obviously the man I am most concerned with is Logan. He is a living legend to say the least and was the man that very nearly eliminated me from last year's event. Had it not been for the Sicilian heart that beats inside my chest, there is no doubt that I would have been done in by that Connector. That maneuver is devastating and to this day, I have no idea how I managed to get a shoulder up. To say that Logan is a great competitor is an understatement and no matter what kind of propaganda or crazy things he might spew while addressing you during the days leading up to this match, I will have the utmost respect for him and for what he has done for this federation. Without Logan, there would be no WCF. Period. He is the only other man in the event that knows what it is like to win it and he has done it on multiple occasions. To tell you that those facts aren't at least hidden somewhere in the back of my mind would be a lie.
Greenfever is another opponent that I see as a real threat to winning this event and becoming the next new face of the WCF. I have faced him several times before and was able to come out on top in a majority of those matches, but he is also the man that very nearly ended my career an in this very building nonetheless. I was literally a broken man after that encounter with the beast they call Greenfever and I vow to never let that happen again. My revenge has been more than gained and I will fight like hell to make sure that he is not the one to eliminate me at WAR. However, unlike Logan, I simply have no respect for a man that carries himself in the manner that Greenfever does. His use of intimidation and simply disgusting acts may work against many, but what has he done to show me that he is anything but a mere beatable mortal? When I have been at my very best, he is unable to match my ability and I am sure that he will celebrate Monday, the day that I finally left the federation so that he would have his rightful chance to FINALLY become the best. As long as Slickie T has been around, Greenfever has always been second best and that is as good as it will get on Monday night...second best.
Jay Price is also a name that should be mentioned and although he has certainly been caught up in his feud with Logan, remember that he was third in his event as a rookie last year. He was named the 2009 Newcomer of the Year for a reason and if case you have forgotten, he beat out yours truly to win that very title. The man has talent, but as long as he continues to focus on Logan and not the ultimate road that his ahead of him, he will not have what it takes to win this event, because you see, Jay, Logan is not the one you are going to have to worry about on Monday night. As long as I am in the ring when you make your way down that ramp, Logan will be the least of your worries. I know what you are capable of and you better believe that I want to give you no chance to make a run at winning the WAR event like you did a year ago. This time I know what you bring to the table and this time I will be after all those records that you broke in 2009. I will not only eliminate you from the WAR match, I will eliminate you from the record books as well. Cherish that Newcomer of the Year award because it is and will be the only thing you can ever hold over me.
Oblivion and Johnny Reb are two names that will be stored away on Monday night as well. You simply cannot take those two former World Champions for granted, especially when it means they can have that belt back around their waist for a second time. Oblivion has shown his still and the pure evil that he possess in the past and Reb has more experience than almost everyone in this match, save for Logan and Creeping Death. I respect a guy with that much experience and respect a guy that simply knows how to win and Reb is both of those things. The Inveterate Confederate as simply been waiting for an opening to reclaim his spot at the top of this federation and what better way to do it than with a victory in Sacramento on Monday night. Neither of those men should be taken lightly and I will have an eye on both of them at all times.
Others that I consider wild cards in this event and I think could definitely cause some trouble or perhaps even win the thing are Jason Kash and Creeping Death. Both are guys that I consider to be flying a bit under the radar, but could find the right combination at any moment. Although neither one of them may win, something tells me that either one, or perhaps both, will have a say in who does.
To answer the other part of your question, I think it helps to an extent, but not as much as one would think. As I explained earlier, last year I was the last man in the ring and had a bit of an advantage in that regard, this year, I will be the first. Obviously I was the one that wanted it that way, but I don't think it is that winning last year's event will be the biggest advantage, I think it will simply be the experienced I gained from being in that event. Experience is invaluable in a situation like this. It does help that there are a few less competitors on this year's match, but I think the talent level is just the same if not deeper this year. You never know which one of those midcarders is going to take the step up to the next level and you never know which competitor at the highest level has been holding out and is ready to give it just that much more for the WAR event. This match is a career maker and everyone out there in every federation knows it. I'm sure a lot of you out there would agree that without winning WAR VIII, I would not even be close to having the prestige surrounding me that I do today. If there is an analogy I could use, it is like having a great NFL player without a Super Bowl ring. This is our Super Bowl and if you haven't won this event, even if you are a sure Hall of Fame inductee, you feel like your career is incomplete. If I had to choose between losing EVERY World Title match of my career or winning WAR once, I would easily pick the WAR victory. No doubt.”
“Allen, this is Vince O'Connor, blogger from IKnowItsFake.com, if there was one match in your entire career that you would say changed the way you viewed your career or made you really think about what you needed to do to achieve what you have to do, what would you say that match was?”
“Vince, that is one hell of a question and it may take me a moment to come up with an answer. I'm not sure if there is ONE match that had that kind of impact, but perhaps a combination of matches. If I had to point to one early in my career that really pushed me into the limelight of a federation was my third of four matches with Eric Tione. Tione and I were big rivals in the XHWF and he was one of those guys that seemed to have my number, no matter what I threw at him. Every time it looked like I was going to pull off the victory over him, he would find a way to get a shoulder up, turn the tide of the match, and keep me on my back for that three count. It was frustrating, but once I got over the fact that he was simply the better man, I began to change my outlook going into those matches. I was under the impression and was a firm believer in that, eventually, without changing a thing, that I was going to come out on top and that was the exact opposite of what I needed to be doing. After losing against him for the third time, all three for the XHWF World Title, I realized that I needed to get better and that as talented as I was, it simply wasn't enough. I went back to the gym, honed my skills physically and mentally, and was able to come out with a victory in our fourth match and win my very first World Championship in any federation.
The second match that stands out in my mind is a loss that I suffered to Lee Todd in the XGWO. I was one of the biggest names in that federation the entire time I was there. The federation had just reopened and I was buzz-sawing my way through the roster, dominating each match I was in, even against the top tier talent and thought I was destined to win the World Championship. However, in a #1 contender's match between Lee and I, he abruptly halted my run to the top and earned a victory over me at one of the pay-per-view events. That loss felt like I had been hit with a ton of bricks. I knew that I had what it took to beat the current World Champion in that federation, but Lee was always in my way. He easily won the belt, but I found myself in a stand still in the #2 spot. I was better than everyone else, had the confidence to better than everyone else, but simply couldn't overcome Lee Todd. Unfortunately that was our first and only match and as good as it was, there was never a rematch due to the closing of the federation. I was a member of a stable called the Untouchables, which may be the best stable ever assembled, and I as I began to concentrate on the success of the stable, I reluctantly took myself out of the World Title picture and never got another shot at it as the organization folded just a few weeks later. However, that match will forever remind me that I simply wasn’t good enough. I am a proud member of the XGWO Hall of Fame, but I will forever regret not holding the World Championship in that federation.
The other match that seriously made me think about just how good of a wrestler I was, was the first match I had against Torture right here in the WCF. The first match, the one-on-one match, where even having all the confidence and all the momentum wasn't enough to knock off perhaps the biggest name in the business. The mental war that was fought between us was something of legend and the match was even better. It had gone through so much to even earn my way into that match with him that I thought I was bulletproof and was a lock to win the World Title. I had won the United States Title a few months before I made my run at the top prize here in the Wrestling Championship Federation, I was on an unbelievable winning streak, I defeated Logan and Jack of Blades in back-to-back weeks, I defeated Dake Ken for the final spot in WAR VIII and then, I won the whole damn thing despite the formation of the Team of Torture that was assembled to stop me from every getting a chance to face Torture. I had overcome every obstacle, jumped over every hurdle, and defied every odd, BUT, when it all came down to it, I just wasn't good enough to be Torture. It was a huge setback, but it also motivated more than any other loss I had suffered. If I would have won that match, I do not think I would be standing before you here today as I think my career would have been much shorter. All that loss did was motivate me to be better than Torture, not only in one match, but throughout my entire career. Obviously I will not achieve that feat, due to some unfortunate circumstances, but hopefully my name will at least be mentionable with his when it is all said and done. Part of the reason I wanted to be the first one in the WAR match was to do something that Torture or anyone has ever done and that is win from that #1 spot. Even after his passing, and God rest his soul, the competition between us still exists. There was that much pure hate between us, but with that being said, there was also a great amount of respect. I hated the man, but damn, I respected him so much more.
Obviously there are other matches in my career, mostly wins, that I think have affected me, but those three are really the ones I look back on for motivation. I think the matches I had with Chad Evans are also worth mentioning since the tie that we had was one of the best matches in the history of the WCF. Chad pushed me to my absolute limit and I think that if he would have stayed here longer, that our rivalry would have surpassed the one I had with Torture, but then again, Torture and I were so similar in that we were successful businessmen, yet so different in how we viewed this federation, that I don't know if surpassing it would have been possible.”
“Mr. Guiliano, Hugh Cobb here. You have been able to sit back and listen to what some of the other competitors have had to say. Does anything surprise you about what they are saying about this event? Is there anyone that has caught your attention?”
“I may be viewed as arrogant for answering this way, but no, there isn't one person out there that has my attention. Most of the newcomers, as I have said before, have no idea what they are getting themselves into and I think it shows when they are cutting promos and it seems like some of the veterans are losing perspective as to what this event really means. They are too busy worrying about their currently feuds and their current rivalries to see what they should really be worried about and that is the man standing right here before this podium. I have yet to see my name really mentioned for more than just a side note and I think that is a huge mistake. The only man that seems to really get it is Logan and I certainly expected that with all the experience he has had in this event. Some of what he said is absolutely true about how he has stood the test of time and has outlasted guys like Torture and myself, but on the flip side, he hasn't been competing week in and week out either. He has simply jumped into this WAR match for its prestige and as much as I despise that tactic, I certainly see where he is coming from. Why not simply save yourself for a match of this magnitude? The more wins you have in this match, the more fame and fortune that you gain, regardless of what you do in the other 11 months of the year.
Hugh, hearing what others have said motivates me that much more to run the table on Monday night. Sure, there is a lot of motivation already, but it seems I am being, almost ignored, because others are focused on their own personal business and own personal vendettas and that is completely the wrong approach. Go ahead and use all that energy to eliminate the guy you are feuding with. See if I care. Actually, I encourage it, because it will help to alleviate some of the disadvantage I have by being the first competitor down the ramp. The only man that ANYONE should be worried about is The Ace of Hardcore. I am the only man in the entire field that is undefeated in WAR matches. I know that isn't saying much since I have only been in one event, but where is the love for the reigning War winner? Not only am I last year's winner, I am the current World Champion! Humble me! Please! You can ignore me all you want in your promos and your ramblings, but the one place where I will not be ignored is in ARCO Arena on Monday night in Sacramento. This is my FINAL match and I have never been so focused in my entire career and those who will be my competitors seem to be focused on so many other things. Let me give you a bit of advice, I am focused on each and every one of you, shouldn't you be focused on me? Am I not a threat anymore? Am I being overlooked? Do my accomplishments mean nothing anymore or is it simply that if I am not spoken of or not mentioned that I will up and disappear on Monday night? Perhaps it is some kind of reverse psychology that everyone, except for Logan is using. Whatever it is, it makes me laugh and feel some pity for all 22 others. Maybe it is because everyone out there thinks it is impossible to win after being the first man in the ring? Well, look at me. Do you think “impossible” is a word that is in my vocabulary? Please, I have overcome much greater odds in my life than what I will be up against at WAR. Maybe I haven't been up against it quite like this in my wrestling career, but I certainly have as a young man running around on the streets of Palermo, as a teenager in the Bronx, and as a young entrepreneur in Las Vegas. “Impossible” simply doesn't exist to me, because I am stubborn enough to convince myself that I can do ANYTHING and overcome ANY obstacle that is thrown in my way. Don't forget that I was the one that wanted to enter first. I was the one that said I could defeat the entire roster. I was the one that didn't respect ANY of you and NOONE out there has a response? This is it for me and not one of you seems to care. I know that WAR isn't like any other match on the planet, but this is the FINAL match of my career. The last time that the people in the WCF will see me compete. A chance for me to make wrestling HISTORY! Where is the love?! Where are the naysayers and arrogant guys in the locker room that will be out to prove me wrong? I have been humble and respected each of you ever since I have arrived here, but this week, all but one of you disappoint me. And the one that doesn't is the man that knows how to win this thing. We are the two former WAR winners and one is perhaps the most recognizable name the WCF has ever seen and all others are looking the other way. Well, keep looking in that direction, because when you turn around, an Omerta will be waiting for you. Perhaps just being a part of this match is enough for some, I don't know. For me, well, I think everyone here knows what it is about for me. Next question!”
Guiliano seems to have worked himself into quite the fervor answering the last question and his face is nothing but focus at this point. He looks out over the crowd, quickly identifying the where the next question will come from as the screen fades to black and the WCF logo appears.
To be continued...
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