Liberation: Episode Sixty-Three, January 11th, 2022

OPENING SEGMENT
Backstage! A brand new day in Liberty Pro and yet, familiar faces have come to Brooklyn to bring in this new era. And perhaps no face more familiar than that of Tim Anderson, the lead backstage interviewer. Standing in the corridor near Gorilla position, he introduces us.

TIM ANDERSON:
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to Liberty Pro. Please welcome my guest at this time…Emery Layton!

The aforementioned Emery Layton does not stand next to Tim. No, instead we pull back slowly. Sat cross-legged on a big, black box used to pack equipment, and despite the fact we’re not long before her match with Melissa Reeves, the eccentric traveller scrans away on a big slice of New York pizza. Noticing the silence, she looks up. She looks at us, then at Tim, then grins.

EMERY LAYTON:
Oh. Hiya! Ooh, hang on…

Taking the big box of pizza she offers Tim a slice, but he shakes his head.

TIM ANDERSON:
Not while I’m working, sorry.

EMERY LAYTON:
Shame, that. It’s sooo goood, mm! Love New York-style. Got this at a cool place down the road here in Brooklyn. Did you know NY makes their pizza different to how the rest of the world does it? Something to do with thin crust, like they make it so you can fold it easier? Get imitators across the world and stuff, but it’s not a patch on the original. I think that’s kinda funny cos wrestling shows are the same here, too. Don’t get crowds like the kind you get in New York. And you don’t get any wrestling better here than Liberty Pro. Mm. Anyway, what’s the craic?

Em goes back to her slice.

TIM ANDERSON:
Emery, you’ve wrestled for all kinds of places across the world since we last saw you, firmly establishing you’re back for good, but there will still be a lot of eyes on you tonight as you face a former Liberty Pro Champion Melissa Reeves and with respect, it just looks like you’re just sitting back here eating pizza. Are you sure you’re ready for this?

Setting her pizza down beside her and popping off the box onto her feet, Emery abruptly zips open her leather jacket, quite proudly, her abs on full display. She looks down at them, then at Tim, her hands on her hips.

EMERY LAYTON:
Tim. Look at these.

She knocks on her abs. Like they’re a door.

EMERY LAYTON:
Rock solid. And it’s not just my abs, it’s my arms, shoulders, my legs and my mind, yeah? I ain’t the broken bag of shit you saw crawling around here last year no more, I’m in the best place mentally and physically that I’ve ever been. The thing that gets me outta bed in the morning, Tim, it’s curiosity. I look round the industry now and I see people who say they’re the best, who say they ain’t easy to beat and it makes me go ‘hmm…I wonder whether I could’. It gets the gears in my head moving round, know what I mean? So when a match with someone like Melissa Reeves rocks up, it’s like my serotonin, man. I was up at 5am this morning, buzzing, cos I knew at the end of my day, I get to see what makes Reeves as good as she is, I get to find a way to beat her. And you think a bit of New York-style Pizza is gonna cause me problems? Nuh-uh, dude. I’m ready for whatever she’s got, so she can come and have a go if she thinks she’s hard enough.

TIM ANDERSON:
Okay, well it’s a new start for Liberty Pro but obviously you have a bit of history here. What do you plan on doing differently this time around?

This, honestly, takes Em takes a few moments to consider. And then she knows.

EMERY LAYTON:
So here’s the thing, man. Since Liberty’s been out, I had a bit of an…like an epiphany. Cos the thing is, Tim, I’m realising what my role in the industry has gotta be. I ran away from a family of Travellers as a teenager to become the wrestler and person I knew could be, and I’ve done that! I don’t know much about other sports, but what I do know is in order to get better, you gotta face better people who been doing this longer than you, and that’s at any point in your career. Now, I’m not saying I’m the best here, if I was I’d be draped in gold and in your main event- gimme some time, maybe I can change that- but I been doing this for a long time now, and I met a whole buncha young talent in the back for the first time today, people who’ve only debuted in the last two or three years who I wanna see become the best wrestlers they can be. So I wanna do that for them. I wanna help those guys, the BLCs and the Maxine Baxters and the Antionettes of the world. I wanna make everybody who wrestles me here better. And that, Tim, is what I’m doing differently.

TIM ANDERSON:
Well, Emery, thank you for talking to us.

EMERY LAYTON:
No prob– ooh, I got my match now, er…

She frantically looks around, the massive box of pizza in her hand. Quickly, she thrusts it intoTim’s hand.

EMERY LAYTON:
Right, you’re in charge of this till I get back. Feel free to share it round with the camera lads a bit, just leave some for me, yeah? Cracking! Cheers for the chat, mate!

She pats Tim on the shoulder as she skips off to her match. Tim looks down at the pizza. Not on the job he said…

Ah screw it. With a shrug, he takes a slice, as we fade out.

BACKSTAGE
Walking backstage was the ever confident rookie, Maxine Baxter. Recently signed to Liberty, this was going to be her professional debut. Despite the undeniable butterflies she had going on internally, she was as cool as a cucumber on the outside. As a staff member walks by, she steps in front of him and adjusts his tie.

MAXINE BAXTER: Your mom let you leave the basement looking like that? Okay mister hot mess, I got you right though.

Giving off a toothy grin, she turns her attention to the camera directly across from her.

MAXINE BAXTER: On a night where hella champs are about to be crowned or unified, I'm making my debut against a bald, past his prime, dad joke telling...Seth Lawless. I say that with all of the respect in the world for him, but at the end of the day, i'm a realist. This isn't the Seth Lawless that was chasing championships, or Becky Balfour.

She laughs before continuing.

MAXINE BAXTER: This is the Seth Lawless that is doing whatever he can to stay relevant and fortunately for him, it's been ME who has kept him there. Someone who hasn't even had a professional match, but has done more to build anticipation for this one than a veteran like him. You could thank me Seth, but that wouldn't be enough. Look, I get it. To you, I'm just another rookie who is going to lose a couple matches and be gone. But that's where you're wrong. This is my way out. Say what you want, call me a pretty face, it's all good...but the reality is, I've been through some shit and this is my ticket to a better life. While you're fighting for a comeback, a second, third, or fiftieth chance, I'm just here to survive. But unlike you, I won't take myself too seriously.

Despite the brief glimpse into her motivation for competing, Max hasn't stopped smiling.

MAXINE BAXTER: So Seth, after you lose this match, don't look at it negatively. Don't go on Twitter and whine and complain like the little negative Nancy you are. Look at it as a chance to show the world that you're more than just a whiner. You're more than just a complainer. You're more than just a relic of the past. You're the first. The first to get their ASS KICKED by Maxine Baxter. That will be something worth bragging about years from now after you realize I'm so much more than a pretty face, a multi time world champion...while you're STILL doing the same thing you've been doing for the last five years. Good luck Sethy Boy. You're gonna need it.

She winks at the camera and gives her now trademark 'grrrr' face, showing off her teeth, before heading down the hallway, getting ready to compete.

EARLIER
The Socialites are walking into the Callaghan Warehouse and they have a bit of a disgusted look on their faces.

“Diamond Princess” Danielle Page:We can't still be in Brooklyn. Where the hell are we?!?!?!

Vanessa Page:I don’t think this area of Brooklyn has been gentrified yet. This is the part of town nobody likes going to.

“Diamond Princess” Danielle Page: When we are dominating the Liberty Pro tag team division and the standard bearer as the Liberty World Tag Team Champions we will gladly pay for this place to be upgraded.

Vanessa Page: Great idea, D. But first and foremost we have to put Liberty on notice by embarrassing those wannabe wolves with the mentality of sheep.

“Diamond Princess” Danielle Page: Once we neuter those “Wolves” we will look to knock off those pathetic surfer girls who are claiming to be champions.

Vanessa Page: Coral, Nami, your reign of tierney in the Liberty Pro Tag Team division will be ending now that my sister and I have arrived to give Liberty Pro a major upgrade in all aspects of life.

The Socialites walk by some of the ring crew

“Diamond Princess” Danielle Page: Eyes down on the ground when you are in our presence.

The Socialites walk out of camera view as the ring crew rolls their eyes.

BACKSTAGE
Backstage, the cameras caught up to an extremely cheerful Avery Smith. Dressed in a vibrant Union Flag-styled singlet, the Englishwoman glided her way through the hallways of the Callaghan Warehouse. She threw in the odd spin here and there, humming a tune along the way.

Avery Smith: “Jump! For my love! Jump in! And feel my t— oh, hello there!”

Almost like snapping out of a trance, Avery stopped in her tracks and turned to face the cameras. She let out the cheesiest of smiles, even offering a little wave.

Avery Smith: “I was in a little world of my own there. But don’t worry, I’m super ready for tonight. Liberty is back, baby!”

The crowd popped, naturally. Avery grinned again.

Avery Smith: “And let me tell you, does it feel good to be back in my gear again. I’ve gone through two pregnancies, and this thing still fits me. But what feels even better is being back here in Liberty, my home promotion! And there’s some of my favourite people here, too. People like Melissa Reeves, Carli Davis, Antoinette…”

The crowd cheered the three names mentioned, bringing yet another smile to Avery’s lips.

Avery Smith: “There’s so many talented people on the roster, and tonight I face four of them for the opportunity to become a two-time Anarchy Champion. But not only that, the winner gets to do double duty later in the night in a title unification match. And as my only ever singles Championship reign to date, I cannot tell you just how much it would mean to me to hold the Anarchy Championship again.”

Avery did a little jig, unable to contain her excitement.

Avery Smith: “Anyway, guys. I’ll see you later on. Wish me luck!”

Avery skipped off the scene, dancing and singing Heaven Is a Place on Earth as she went.

BACKSTAGE
Brianna Clark: Well, fuck.

A loud laugh then as Brianna looks over the things she’s set out in the locker for tonight. Two different ring jackets, matching fighter’s gloves, the works. She's got colorful bronze and red gear on, and a wide smile on her face, turning to flex one of her strong arms for the camera before she moves over to the nearby mirror to put her hair up in space buns, taking care to make sure they’re extra secure as she speaks.

Brianna Clark: We know my star is on the rise, right? It has been, while some people are just stuck in the past. Good for them. This, tonight? It’s a whole other buffet of greatness. Liberty’s back! It’s like that messy Uncle we all have that gets drunk at Thanksgiving and says all that stuff you’re not supposed to hear until you’re old enough not to sit at the kiddie table.

A smirk as she rolls her eyes, but it’s with fondness.

Brianna Clark: Tonight, I have a lot on my plate, and trust me - I intend to eat. I’m going out there in just a minute and I’ll be taking on Avery Smith, Dylan Shepherd, Cait Flanagan and Callie Buchanan in a batshit match to see which one of us will take the vacant Anarchy Championship. Suffice to say, I want that. There’s no way that’s going to be an easy match, we’re all hungry… but I have some god tier lariats for all of you, trust.

Finishing up she braces her hands on the counter, looking at herself in the mirror.

Brianna Clark: After that, Champion or not, I’ll be moving on to a Hoss Match against a lady calling herself Wild Jackal. Now, if you haven’t seen her? She’s big. Like, big and tall style big. That’s fine, that’s great! I make no excuses, I’ll have had a couple matches worth of time to rest up and get a fresh wind before I meet her. Jackal, you’re hot, you look capable as hell, but understand, the lariat doesn’t make exceptions. If you give me even a hint of an opening I’m going to drop you and dust you - with all due respect, as quickly as I possibly can.

A quirk of her lips as she picked up one of her ring jackets, with BLC emblazoned on the back and slid it on.

Brianna Clark: Because if I DO happen to be Anarchy Champion? A couple more matches after that I’ll be facing someone I hold a deep respect for, The Mighty Sparrow. He’s aces, that guy. One of the best people I know, him and TJ Techniques not only know their stuff in the ring but they’re respectful of the business and that’s …fucking refreshing and I couldn’t say enough good stuff about Sparrow if I tried. However.

A small grin and she shook her head.

Brianna Clark: If I’m coming in to face him as the Anarchy Champion, it’ll be a unification match for his KONY title and that I imagine he’s going to give me every ounce of fight in him. Not that I blame him because I’m going to do the same. Trust me on this too, he knows. He knows that when that bell rings it’s not going to matter what else I did tonight, if I’m in there with him, it’s all bets are off and I want that win.

She heads towards the locker door, pausing for one moment.

Brianna Clark: Let’s do this.

BACKSTAGE
We cut backstage at the Callaghan Warehouse in Brooklyn, New York. Where new signee, Dylan Shepherd has his feet up and a smirk on his face. He has a bucket of popcorn in his lap and tosses back a few into his mouth.

Dylan Shepherd: Episode 63 huh? Won’t lie, I’m excited to see what comes in six more shows.

He winks at the camera before tossing back more popped kernels.

Dylan Shepherd: Ain’t gonna lie. I feel like a damn fox in the hen house with this match. First of all we got the Anarchy Championship on the line and well that’s just my bread and butter baby. Kicking up the violence and brutality is just… Chef’s kiss. Then you got my Devilishly Handsome self sharing the ring, and let's be honest the surrounding areas, with four gorgeous ladies who want nothing more than to kick my ass and that’s just hot to me.

He lets out a laugh before tossing a popped kernel in the air and catching it in his mouth.

Dylan Shepherd: All four of em are tough as nails, they wouldn’t be in this match if they weren’t. Hell with two of em, Brianna for sure, could toss me around in that ring. But the thing with it all is this is my playground that we are steppin into. They can hit those picture perfect moves or that dominating power game but this match is all about Anarchy. It’s all about the damage you can dish out and that’s my jam. I ain’t afraid to bleed, I ain’t afraid to get my ass hurt. Can any of you fine ladies say that when you get busted open, you’re gonna smile in return? Cause I know I am, just like I know going to look damn sexy wearing that Anarchy Championship belt while eating a celebratory bowl of Lucky Charm tomorrow morning.

He laughs, dumping the whole bucket of popcorn into his face, catching only a few in his mouth before hopping up and walking off, leaving a mess behind him.

BACKSTAGE
The cameras open up backstage in Seth Lawless's locker room. Instead of seeing the returning veteran, we see his opponent, the rookie trouble maker MAXINE BAXTER! She has clearly redecorated his locker room, starting with a big banner of Seth hanging up. She drew fake hair sloppily on top of his head and wrote on his chest 'I LOVE MAX!'

There are big fuzzy pink balls dangling from the ceiling, as well as boxes of 'MAXI PADS' since he decided to call her that sitting all over the room.

MAXINE BAXTER: This should REALLY get him boiling.

Max holds up an insulated cup with a CAUTION HOT duct taped strip on it as she's hovering her hand over his RING BOOTS when the door opens up. Glancing towards the door, Maxine sees Seth walk in as her hand is hovering over his ring boots.

MAXINE BAXTER: Ohhhh...whats up? Don't get all HOT HEADED on me, okay? I just did some redecorating and as far as the boots go, I mean, a little hot chocolate can't hurt. Can it?

Seth walks into the room backwards.

SETH LAWLESS: Great to be back.

He turns and sees everything in his locker room and shakes his head. He starts to turn red as he sees Maxine.

SETH LAWLESS: Who…what the…

He stammers a bit as he walks closer to her.

SETH LAWLESS: Alright, what the hell is going on?

MAXINE BAXTER: STOP right there! If you take another step towards me, I'm dumping this entire cup of hot chocolate into your ring boots!

Seth stops as the young rookie slowly stands up and backs away from the boots. She keeps the cup in her hand in case he tries to make a quick move towards her.

MAXINE BAXTER: Look at your locker room! Tell me this isn't a dope upgrade!

She looks around proudly at the 'redecorating' she's done, and glances over her shoulder to the 'I followed Becky to hell and all I got was a divorce' sign hanging just behind her.

MAXINE BAXTER: Look, this match has been building for weeks and I just wanted to give you some tokens of my appreciation before the big throwdown. Whatcha think!?

Seth shakes his head as he looks at the cup in her hand and his custom boots on the floor. He sees the Becky sign and laughs.

SETH LAWLESS: Very creative Max, but you do know that now that you’ve done this I’ll gladly take your head off.

He licks his lips a little bit as he furrows his brow.

SETH LAWLESS: You see before all of this I was going to go easy on you. But it’s over, you’ve stepped over that line. I will not feel sorry for what I do to you. You need to learn your place rookie.

He shakes his head, he is clearly pissed off as he stares a hole into her.

MAXINE BAXTER: Really? This is what sets you over the edge? I was just trying to have a little fun. Such a shame, but hey, I guess the time for talking is over.

Max sits the cup down next to her, showing Seth that she wasn't going to throw it at him or dump it into his boots anymore. The rookie takes a step closer to him, showing that she isn't scared, but Seth stands his ground too as he stares down at her.

MAXINE BAXTER: If I offended you, my bad. I just wanted to put a smile on your face, and with that lil twisted grin on that gremlin face, I feel like I accomplished that. Soooo...good luck?

Max sticks her hand out while keeping her eyes on him, before quickly glancing to a string right above Seth's head. It's BARELY noticeable, so she's hoping he doesn't see it.

SETH LAWLESS: No, you will learn that stepping into my locker room room without me asking you is a problem Max.

He shakes his head and looks at her outstretched hand.

SETH LAWLESS: You have a lot to learned about this business Max. I don’t care that we have trained together or went back and forth on Twitter a few times. You’ll learn from this and that lesson is in the ring.

He slaps her hand away.

SETH LAWLESS: Get out. Now.

MAXINE BAXTER: Fine. But one more thing before I go.

Max reaches for the nearly invisible string and pulls it as harmless, multicolored confetti falls from a trap tile in the ceiling. It lands right on Seth's head as Max points at him and laughs.

MAXINE BAXTER: See ya out there, Fetti-Wap.

Max heads out of his locker room as Seth was left fuming, red in the face, and ready for revenge.

BACKSTAGE
Backstage at the Callaghan Warehouse, a loud laughter filled the air. The debuting Ricky Rodriguez was seen chasing his girlfriend and one of his many guests for this evening, Jennie Fenix down that hallway. The energetic nature of both were on full display, giving a really good idea of what's to expect from the pair. They turned a corner, almost crashing into one of the backstage workers. Yelling out an apology, the two continued on, leaving that man to grumble under his breath.

Worker: 'Goddamn kids.'

Ricky managed to get close enough to throw his arms around her waist. Jennie squeaked out as Ricky picked her up off of her feet. He spun around briefly before setting her back down onto her feet. He kept his arms around her as she laid her own hands on top of his. Jennie turned her head to be able to look back at Ricky as he met her with a brief kiss.

It lingered for just a moment before the two noticed the rather patient man holding the camera. They let one another go, taking a moment to collect themselves. There was a slight blush in their cheeks that faded shortly after. Ricky tried to keep a straight face but ultimately failed, laughing aloud and rubbing the back of his head nervously.

Ricky Rodriguez: 'Oh shit, hi! I'm Ricky!'

The infectious laughter of Ricky continued as he was clearly trying to calm himself.

Jennie Fenix: 'He gets kinda giggly sometimes.'

Ricky gasped out, clearly being overdramatic with it.

Ricky Rodriguez: 'You're one to talk!'

He poked at her stomach, causing the both of them to laugh out as she tried to avoid it. She managed to grab his wrists to stop him. The two of them leaned into one another for a moment before Jennie spoke up.

Jennie Fenix: 'I’m going to get some snacks…hmm…skittles? Popcorn? Nachos? Ahh, I’ll just get all three! Do you think they have slurpees?'

Jennie blankly stared at Ricky who kept his mouth shut.

Jennie Fenix: 'Don’t say it! Anyways, gonna go settle in. Good luck! You’re gonna be great!'

Ricky nodded as the two shared another brief kiss. Jennie nipped at his lower lip and tugged at it before starting to back up. But before she got too far, Jennie made sure to grab Ricky's ass firmly, the two slyly smiling at one another.

Jennie Fenix: 'I know you're going to win it, babyy! I have so much faith in you! Go show them you're the best!'

She continued those words of encouragement even after she turned the corner and disappeared from sight. Ricky stood there, a smile of complete adoration on his face. After a moment, he turned back to face the cameraman.

Ricky Rodriguez: 'You heard the woman. The. Best.'

Ricky grinned from ear to ear as he turned away and walked off. But before he could get too far away, he was met with excitement from Austin and Todrick Ramsey. The feeling of pride was clear on Ricky's face as he looked at the two.

Todrick Tabor-Ramsey: 'We're gonna be cheering sooo loud for you. I know you'll own it out there!'

Ricky and Todrick shared a brief hug before letting go, leaving Ricky and Austin to look at one another.

Austin Ramsey: 'Your tights tight? Better not see even one ball tonight.'

The three of them laughed out and even with the problems Ricky and Austin occasionally have, the two shared a tight hug, Austin patting Ricky on the back as they did.

Austin Ramsey: 'Now get out of here, go make an impact.'

Ricky nodded in full agreement, giving one last look to two of his best friends as the scene cut away.

BACKSTAGE
The scene cuts to the Merchandise area. Liberty Fans are crowded around buzzing with excitement for the company’s big return. Fans of all ages are experiencing a good show and having a fun time. One younger fan waves as the cameras pass by her. When she makes it to the front of the line she pulls out a crisp twenty dollar bill and asks for a single Antoinette shirt. Before she can hand the vendor the money, a hand from behind her snatches the twenty.

??: What a waste of money.

The girl turns around, as does the camera. We see NV Payton, Liberty Pro Debutant, sneering at the girl.

NV Payton: You know, hundreds of New Yorkers go hungry everyday. Kids as young as you even, with no food or anything to eat. But yeah. I’m sure spending a dub on big girls crappy t shirt seems like a GREAT investment right?

The girl doesn’t answer her. Instead she asks for her money back so she can buy the shirt. NV laughs in her face before crumbling the bill up into a ball and dropping it on the ground.

NV Payton: Whatever kid. When you pass by a homeless person on your way home and they ask why you can’t help them, be sure to tell them that you JUST HAD to have that shirt sport.

NV walks off towards the locker room now, leaving the girl in tears, no longer wanting to buy Antoinette’s shirt.

BACKSTAGE
The scene opens up backstage of the Callaghan Warehouse in Brooklyn, live for the return of Liberty Pro Wrestling! A night that has already been filled with excitement only continues on as the cameras pan up to show Antoinette standing backstage. Dressed in her ring gear for tonight’s triple threat with NV Payton and Skylar Rayner.

ANTOINETTE: “ANNNNTNAAATION! I am more than thrilled to be here in Brooklyn tonight. Not only is it the second week of the new year and the rebirth of Liberty, but this is my first night in a Liberty ring!

Antoinette smiles wide, jumping up and down before looking up to the cameras.

ANTOINETTE: “Tonight I’m going to do it real big for you all here! When I heard the doors were opening up again I knew this was my chance to expand my horizons and do right by all of you who have never left my side since day one. The rebirth of Liberty is an opportunity for people like myself to come together and showcase talent. The best of the best will give it their all in that ring and I get to be a part of that! Tonight I get to be in the ring with two other ladies who plan on giving it their all in that ring for this monumental night, but the difference? I plan on going harder, I plan on going faster. I am walking out to that ring with the mission of making a match to remember! You aren’t going to want to miss a single second of the action that we have in store for you tonight because this? This is only the beginning!

With her grin never leaving her face, Antoinette stretches her arms up, preparing herself for the match.

ANTOINETTE: “Do not be fooled, tonight I may not be in a Championship scramble…but you will see me in one in no time! I am no stranger to gold, and Liberty seems like just the perfect place to recapture some and find my way to the top. I’ve spent a good healthy amount of my career in tag team action but this is my chance to create my own path! Tonight, I swear to my ANTNATION, I won’t let you down. I am going to go out there, square up with two hard workers and walk out with a big victory and put my name on the map!

Antoinette drops her arms covered in handmade kandi, before leaning in to speak with confidence.

ANTOINETTE: “This is OUR time. This is OUR moment in history! To infinity and BEYOND!’

Antoinette shouts as she jumps up and down, glitter falling from her ring attire as she giggles and grins skipping down to get ready for the match.

BACKSTAGE
Backstage, outside the women’s locker room, Madeline Mason has finished dressing for her match later tonight. She emerges from the changing area and sets off down the hall, but pauses, looking curiously down the hall.

Madeline Mason: “You came after all.”

The camera pans around. Wheeling herself down the hall is Chloe Collins, the head of the private military force known as SABER Security Solutions.

Chloe Collins: “Here to wish you the best, of course.”

Madeline Mason: “Mhmm… but really, why?”

Chloe and Madeline lock eyes briefly before Chloe’s face breaks into a smile.

Chloe Collins: “Clever.”

Madeline gives a modest shrug.

Madeline Mason: “I do have my moments.”

Chloe Collins: “I’m here on business. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the opportunity to establish a SABER office in Liberty’s home arena. Not yet, anyway.”

Madeline Mason: “Did you receive my report?”

Chloe Collins: “I did. So you think there’s something more to this?”

Madeline Mason: “I think it’s worth investigating further… there’s something very off about all of this.”

Chloe Collins: “Was our information correct, then? Is it true that she-”

Madeline gives a solemn nod. A thoughtful look crosses Chloe’s face. She grunts under her breath.

Chloe Collins: “That’s… not possible.”

Madeline Mason: “That was precisely what I thought… but I looked into it myself. She’s got resources. She set up fast… very fast.”

Chloe Collins: “How long before she makes a move?”

Madeline Mason: “In my professional opinion? What time is it?”

Chloe gives Jackal an incredulous look.

Chloe Collins: “Are you saying she’s going to make her move tonight?”

Madeline Mason: “Tonight.”

Chloe shakes her head.

Chloe Collins: “I want reports the moment you find anything further. I want to know how she pulled this off, where she came from, who pulled the strings to make this happen.”

Madeline Mason: “Yes ma’am.”

Chloe Collins: “In the meantime, keep an eye out, see if there’s anything else you can find. Your contract with Liberty will give you the resources and access you need to do your job. I trust your skills will handle the rest.”

Madeline Mason: “And… should anybody require SABER protection while I’m here?”

Chloe waves her off.

Chloe Collins: “At your own discretion. This is not Valiant nor Millennium, and you are not bound by the contracts we have within those companies; you are under no obligation to protect anybody. However… If you feel it will help you complete the task, you do what needs to be done.”

She pauses.

Chloe Collins: “But you are not to accept payment without running the contract through me.”

Madeline Mason: “Understood.”

Chloe’s stern expression softens. She gives a respectful nod to the Brit.

Chloe Collins: “Regret taking on this job yet?”

Madeline chuckles.

Madeline Mason: “A new job, a chance to use my skills, and a friendly competition with the old commander? Absolutely not. This is precisely what I came to SABER for. I live for the challenge.”

Chloe Collins: “That’s what I like to hear… and you know you have my full support, should you require anything from me.”

Madeline Mason: “You know my background. You know I’ll get the job done.”

Chloe Collins: “I’m counting on it.”

There’s a brief pause, and Chloe gives Jackal a respectful nod.

Chloe Collins: “Now… go find me that smoking gun.”

BACKSTAGE
Backstage we see none other than Carli Davis. A bright smile is on her face and she’s dressed and ready to go for her match.

Carli Davis: “It really does feel like it’s been forever since I’ve last been in the ring. I mean, considering it’s been before Christmas! Valiant is still on a break and I think Liberty was just making us wait, but here we are! The first show of the New Year and I’m so honored to be part of it.”

She says with glee, clasping her hands together.

Carli Davis: “There’s so many new faces here. Like, a lot! Names that I don’t think I’ve ever worked with before. So I’m really excited to get a fresh batch of wonderful talent to face and push me harder!”

A smile still plastered across her face as she nods.

Carli Davis: “My match is just an example of that. Ricky Rodriguez who is making his in ring debut, and then Brendan Samuels, a man who has been at this a little longer than I have and certainly isn’t to be taken lightly to.”

She nods again, her smile still visible, but she has a little more seriousness to her.

Carli Davis: “Right off the bat, Liberty is looking to fill their Champion slots as the new season begins and I happen to get an opportunity at not one, but two titles! So the pressure is definitely on, and even more so, since these are all new people I haven’t gotten to do my homework on yet.”

She shakes off the nerves she’s starting to feel.”

Carli Davis: “First we’ve got the US Championship. I have two guys who have the same goal and they aren’t going to just let me sweep by and win so easily. I wouldn’t expect them to. But through it all, I am determined to come out of this match on top and make it to face Max Cerrano, where we will fight and the best person wins, and from there the two titles, Gotham and US, will be unified. And a little fun fact… when I was here years ago, I won a title and never lost it, so I need to make up for that! I plan on adding more Championships to my name and I know some don’t see it as a big deal, but they mean a lot to me. It’s a sign that I did it. That I accomplished something and I’ve earned it. That’s all I ever want to do and will continue to do.”

BACKSTAGE
The camera cut backstage, finding a figure standing with their back to the camera, wearing a brightly coloured Hawaiian shirt and long cream khakis. Their curls, with a slight dyed shade of white running through them, were effortlessly styled, and their broad arms seemed to tense as they spoke.

Brendan Samuels: “280 days is a long time. That be what I have been saying for the past few days. It be a little reminder, that if ye travel back in time, you will find one specific date. One that lives very long in my memory.”

Turning to face the camera, the figure revealed themselves to be none other than Brendan Samuels, a face all too familiar with wrestling enthusiasts and fans of Liberty Pro. The Irishman, pushed down his aviator shades to the tip of his nose, those cool eyes of his staring into the camera lens.

Brendan Samuels: “That date be Wednesday, April 7th, 2021. On that day, in the Barclays Center within New York City itself, it was the last televised broadcast of Liberation, and the last time the Kraken’s flag flew high in the halls of Liberty. A night that lives long in my memory, for all the right… and all of the wrong reasons.”

Brendan said, crossing his arms across his broad chest as he removed his glasses, placing them in the top pocket of his shirt. The moment he was recalling was the last broadcast of Liberation, 280 days ago. One that was well remembered by him, both for his contest with Owen Gonsalves, and for other reasons entirely.

Brendan Samuels: “But this night be one of fresh starts and fresh memories, though those of the past still linger. And while I do find myself remembering that fateful night, I cannae forget what lies ahead on my freshest voyage into the world of professional wrestling. An’ I would be stupid to not take a moment to mention Ricky Rodriguez, looked at by many as one of the ones to watch this year. An up and comer, aiming to reach ‘To The Top’, so to speak. His enthusiasm for the sport is apparent, though as is his want to be accepted. And though he is yet to hold a major title within any promotion, I can see he has the heart to push himself beyond his standing this year. But this is not his night.”

Brendan took a step forward, his head tilting slightly to one side, but that glare ever present.

Brendan Samuels: “As for Carli Davis, this be a lass that needs no introduction. With a following that could be viewed as much more like a religion than a cult, due to it’s numbers. And they be growing all the time. Main Event after Main Event over in Valiant, with accolades building and records being broken. Ye may as well call her Supergirl, as for the people who praise her, she can do no wrong. And defeat is almost impossible.”

Brendan smiled, the grin almost too sure, while the icy cool eyes of the man known as The Wrestling glared into the camera.

Brendan Samuels: “I say almost. As we have danced upon the wrestling waves before, haven’t we, Davis? 26th of October 2020, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. Seems that it slipped ye memory in yer hibernation, Davis, but I remember it, and remember it well. An’ ye didn’t end up on the winning side that night in front of an invite only crowd. Nor will ye tonight.”

Unfolding his arms, he slipped his meaty paws into the pockets of his trousers, speaking slowly and surely in that southern Irish accent of his.

Brendan Samuels: “But ye come a long way since then, lass. An’ while some of ye statements an’ opinions are deemed by some to be controversial, an’ ye mindset often distracted… I be knowing what ye are capable of. Ye have had many a great night within the last year. But tonight is not yer night.”

Brendan paused for a moment, looking down to his boots, before his glance moved back upwards.

Brendan Samuels:“Being crowned the United States Champion is an honour above honours. It be a glory that so many aspire to experience, a goal so many wish to reach, me opponents included. For one, it would put further validation on their career, adding more respect and a further reason for their fans to cheer their name. For the other, a prize that would kick start their ascent up the mountain that is this sport, an achievement that would get them noticed on a wider scale and set them on a path to further glory.”

Samuels paused, the Irishman taking a breath, before reverting back to that ice cold persona he was so known for.

Brendan Samuels: “And for me? Pride. And a reminder… A reminder of where I belong.”

The Wrestling glared deep into the camera, leaning forward with one last thing to say.

Brendan Samuels: “With prized gold around my waist… And in a position to put 280 days to rest.”

BACKSTAGE
Moments before the big United States Championship Match, Ricky Rodriguez is shown leaned up against a wall, in the middle of taping up his wrists, the final step in his getting ready for his match. As before, he wasn't alone. Ricky was joined by Bam Miller, Anicka Swan, and Ashlynn Cassidy. The four of them were having a conversation, inaudible for the most part until the cameraman got within earshot.

Bam Miller: 'Just remember what I told you and you'll own it.'

Ricky and Bam slapped hands together as Bam was quick to pull him into a headlock, ruffling his hair. Laughing out, Ricky shoved out of Bam's grasps, shaking his head.

Ricky Rodriguez: 'Mann, now I gotta redo my hair and everythin!'

Ani stepped up, moving a few bits of Ricky's hair around.

Anicka Swan: 'Ani thinks it looks fine.'

Ricky smiled proudly and the two shared a brief hug before her and Bam walked off, out of view. Ricky and Ashlynn stood there for a moment, no words being spoken between the two. Just when it looked like Ricky was about to speak up, Ashlynn did before he could.

Ashlynn Cassidy: 'Win or lose, you're gonna do great. Just don't lose. We'll smoke after either way.'

Laughing out, Ricky nodded his head, a look of pride growing out across his face. They hugged for a moment before parting. She gave him a nod of her head and walked away, leaving him to his final words.

Ricky Rodriguez: 'Alright, now where was I? My name is Ricky Rodriguez. That's totally cool if you don't know me or nothin, I've only been on this kinda level for like half a year. But don't let that fool you. I've put in the work to be here. I bust my ass in and out of that ring and it's startin to be acknowledged. First there was Fight! NYC. Then I started branchin off. I made it helllla far in the Margarita Mix. I'm set to be a participant in Chris Page's Cannabis Cup comin up in the summer, super fuckin stoked that..

But what seems to have been the biggest opportunity of them all? Liberty Pro Wrestlin. They see somethin in me. Not just cause they signed me, but cause of how they literally just thrusted me in there. My first match here and it's a championship match. Do you know how much faith they hafta have in you to put you in a spot like that?

I'm not gonna let them down. I'm not gonna let anyone down. I've got soo many people supportin me and havin my back, it's an amazin feelin. Tonight..well every night I step out there..but tonight importantly, I'm not gonna let them down. I'm gonna go out there and I'm gonna win that United States Championship. And then? I'm gonna go on to unify them against Max Cerrano, later tonight.'

There was a look of determination in the face of Ricky as he started firing himself up.

Ricky Rodriguez: 'I know..I know whatta feat that's gonna be too. I'm not comin into this blind, not at all. Zero Hour was insane, Carli. I've honestly never heard a bigger explosion of cheers in my life. It was nuts and you deserve every bit of praise you get. I'm seriously honored to be able to share the ring with you.

And Brendan Samuels? SAP was my shit. I became ssuucha huge fan of yours through there. When I was workin my way through the beginnin, you were one of the guys that I looked up to the most. I saw the things you were doin and the success you were havin and I told myself: I'm gonna get to that level. I'm gonna be there and nobody is gonna stop me.

But for all the respect and admiration I have for both of you? I have to push it to the side. In order to get to where I wanna be, I hafta push aside my feelins and go out there and do what I gotta do to take that win. And that's exactly what I'm gonna do.'

The determination in the face and voice of Ricky grew with every word he spoke.

Ricky Rodriguez: 'I'm gonna be faster than I've ever been before. I'm gonna hit harder than I've ever hit before. And most importantly, I'm gonna be better than I've ever been before…'

Ricky gave off a firm nod of his head before turning and walking away. But before he could get too far, he was stopped by the sudden appearance of Thaddeus Duke and Sahara. Ricky couldn't hide the ear to ear grin that broke out across his face.

Thaddeus Duke: 'Go show them all who you are and what you're made of.'

Sahara: 'And when you lose, don't ever show your face again.'

Thad and Ricky both shot Sahara a look that said everything that needed to be said.

Sahara: 'Oh, I'm sorry. If you lose.'

Shaking his head, Ricky couldn't help but to laugh out loud. He nodded confidently to them both before taking those final few steps towards the entrance way.

RINGSIDE
“Bad Company” by Five Finger Death Punch blares over the PA system and out walks Nathan Callaghan again. This time he makes his way to the ring before standing in the middle of it with a mic in hand. When the music cuts away, he begins to speak.

Nathan Callaghan: Ladies and gentleman, welcome to Return to Liberty. What a night it’s been so far, right? We’ve crowned some new champions and now we are going to unify three of our championships. Everything is on the line tonight but the question is, who will be left standing at the top of the mountain? Who will lead Liberty Pro? Will it be Derrick, Max and Dylan? Or will it be TJ, Brendan and Sparrow? Only time will tell. But I will say, I would like to thank you all for coming back after ROTTEN poisoned the well.

Nathan pauses and shakes his head.

Nathan Callaghan: I almost wasn’t able to bring us back this time. It was almost over. ROTTEN did far too much damage to us. Too much damage to me. But thanks to certain financial support that I found, here we are. And while we can’t be in the Hammerstein Ballroom anymore, we have our own warehouse to perform for all of you, the Callaghan warehouse that is. And now? Now we are on and rolling. We can’t and we won’t be stopped. Liberty is forever. I am for-....

Suddenly the lights go dim and Lzzy Hale of Halestorm’s voice belts out “I’M BACK FROM THE DEAAAAAAAD!” “Back From The Dead” by Halestorm now plays over the PA system and suddenly the lights turn on. A woman, in her late 40’s with brunette hair, is standing at the top of the entrance way. She’s wearing Nathan’s patented leather jacket and has his barbed wire bat in her hand, two items he left in the back. In her free hand there is a mic. The music keeps playing and Nathan is standing in the ring, looking dumbfounded. He stares at the woman, in complete and utter shock, mouthing the words, ‘Oh my god.’ The music soon cuts out and there is complete silence. Nathan nor the woman are saying anything and the crowd is silent, as they are complexed at the situation, as it looks like Nathan has seen a ghost. Finally, Nathan raises the mic up to his mouth and tries to utter some words.

Nathan Callaghan: Li-... Lily? Is that you? But you’re…

Lily then cuts him off.

Lily: I’m what? I’m dead?

She scoffs and rolls her eyes.

Lily: Yeah, that’s what you thought, right, Nate? But here I am. I’ve been alive this entire time. These last ten years, I’ve been alive.

Lily looks around at the crowd.

Lily: Let me fill you all in, Nathan’s ‘dead’ wife? Liam, Brendan, Ryan and Sean’s dad momma? That’s me. But I’m far from fucking dead. There's reasons I had to go away for the last decade but the main reason? He’s standing right there.

The crowd audibly gasps as Lily Callaghan points toward the ring, right at Nathan.

Nathan Callaghan: Baby, hold on one min…

Lily Callaghan: Don’t call me that, you pig. Don’t act like I haven’t been watching you and all of your bullshit. All those other children you were hiding while we were together? I saw them all pop up over and over again while I was gone. Michael, Noelle, and so many others. Let’s not mention the new one you made with your surfing whores.

Nathan tries to get a word in but nope, Lily keeps cutting him off.

Lily Callaghan: Stop it. Just stop it. Don’t you worry, I won’t tell everyone here about what you’ve done. All of your shady misdealings that almost ruined my life, the ones that ruined your son Ryan’s life. He never should’ve ended up in prison Nate, but that one is on you. Yup, I know what happened. I know everything. You think you can run but no, you can’t. You’ve had so many people protecting you. You’ve had me protecting you from the shadows but you know what? I’m done. Because the poison you were talking about earlier when you mentioned ROTTEN? That poison is you. You can blame the likes of ROTTEN or The Society for your mishaps all you want but you and I both know that the blame falls squarely on your shoulders. YOUR SHOULDERS!

Lily finally pauses and Nathan begins to speak.

Nathan Callaghan: Lil… Come on, let’s not deal with all of this out here. Let’s go somewhere, maybe our favorite spot, and just talk all of this over. You can tell me what happened to you and I’ll do whatever it takes to fix things.

Lily laughs and rolls her eyes.

Lily Callaghan: Oh Nate, that smooth talking isn’t going to work on me anymore. That sweet, innocent school teacher of a wife that you used to have? Well, she’s what you thought she was. She’s dead. That’s not me anymore. But I will tell you, if you think that I’m here to make your life a living hell? Then you’re right about that.

Nathan Callaghan: Why?

Lily Callaghan: Shut up! Now, let me tell you, I’ve spoken to one of my children so far. Liam and I? We had a nice long chat and guess what? His half of this company? It’s now mine and my first order of business? It’s to end this unification bullshit. No, those matches will become Champion vs Champion matches because I am officially bringing back Freedom and running it up against Liberation.

The crowd absolutely goes nuts after finding out that Freedom is indeed returning.

Nathan Callaghan: You can’t do that! And goddamnit, put down my jacket and bat!

Lily laughs and shakes her head.

Lily Callaghan: You mean this jacket I bought you? You mean this bat that used to be mine? No, I don’t think I will. They are mine now, just like Freedom. And as for these people?

Lily looks behind herself and out walks Eve O’Donnell, Scotty Latimer, Michael Marou… AND RAYVEN HARDY, which causes the crowd to erupt even more.

Lily Callaghan: These are some of my first signings. Of course the Freedom Champions are mine as well and your girls? The Tag Champs? They have to compete on Freedom, which will be a ton of fun. And I have one more surprise signing. One more who will make a bigger impact than you could imagine. Just you wait and see.

Nathan is now livid and he doesn’t even reply, instead he throws his microphone down the entrance way as he points toward Lily and screams.

Lily Callaghan: And with that? All I have to say is… LET FREEDOM RING!

Lily drops her microphone before turning and nodding at those who have joined her before her theme, “Back From The Dead” blares over the PA system. Nathan grabs a hold of the ropes and begins to stomp the ground in anger. The scene then cuts away.

BACKSTAGE
The scene cuts to backstage where the new Anarchy Champion, Dylan Shepherd is pouring a bottle of water over his head, rinsing the blood off of his forehead.

Dylan Shepherd: Oh baby, oh baby…

He lifts up the Anarchy Championship belt and gives it a kiss before holding it up to the camera.

Dylan Shepherd: How fuckin sweet is this huh? Rocking out with a new championship on my first night in Liberty Pro. And now, we have the match up with Sparrow and how about the news that regardless how this title vs title match goes, this prized possession is gonna stay with me. I won’t lie, those chicks kicked me around a bit, but I told ya… I told ya how I was gonna walk out of this with the title and boom!

He pats the faceplate with his wet hand.

Dylan Shepherd: And now, I need a beer or something to get ready for double duty cause Devilishly Handsome is gonna rock that Liberty Pro ring once more tonight baby!

He walks off down the hallway, hooting and hollering with the championship belt in hand.

BACKSTAGE
Fade in with close-up on the King Of New York championship. As the camera begins zooming out however, the hands holding up the main plate of the championship are unfamiliar. Once the camera gets to a stationary shot, there’s no Sparrow holding up the strap. Instead, it’s the unfamiliar face of his new manager in the new year, one Caroline Dallins. Dressed in a red and black dress suit, the in-ring veteran looks down at the championship in amusement before her head turns off-camera.

...

Very slowly, Sparrow walks into the shot to stand beside his manager, backstage at the Callaghan Warehouse. He doesn’t look particularly happy that she’s here, probably hoping that their arrangement started and ended only in Frontier Grappling Arts. Apparently, it is not the case. Sparrow’s ring gear is more white with minor details in red or black, including a crowned sparrow on his left kickpad. The KONY champion eyes Caroline for a few moments and he motions her to go ahead.

Caroline Dallins: Now now, Baby Bird. I would never usurp you from talking to the fans of Liberty Pro who seem to have some affection for you. You go right ahead. Talk up tonight’s match against one of many fine competitors.

The West Indian Whirlwind nods before looking at the camera.

Sparrow: Well y’see--

Immediately Caroline Dallins cuts off her client without so much as a second thought.

Caroline Dallins: Ladies and gentlemen, consolidation is a wonderful thing. Tonight while we watch Max Cerrano collapse two titles into one against whoever wants to be a first-place loser between David, Rodriguez and Samuels? While we watch a chef’s kiss unification match between La’Bell and Techniques, hashtag Black Excellence, let them know, thank you, and praise Him...

Caroline clears her throat.

Caroline Dallins: We have my client here looking at a cavalcade of different opponents. It could be Cait Flanagan who is a former Diamond champion at my old stomping grounds. I think Avery was there for half a cup of coffee too, shit. A quarter-quarter cup of expresso maybe. It could be the Big D...The Big...D. Certainly Dylan couldn’t have come up with a better nickname. The Big O perhaps if you really have to be that on the nose. At least that sounds more physiologically pleasing than the Big--

Sparrow: I ain’t get it.

Caroline Dallins: No...Of course you don’t. Brianna Clark here to pull double duty, Callie Buchanan of...Well I hesitate to say fame but sure she’s been here, she’s been in Borderline. She’s been places. They have all been, Baby Bird. ..But can they hang long enough to get it done against you?

Sparrow: You ever think your manner of speaking on people could use some work?

Caroline Dallins: It doesn’t matter. See, it doesn’t matter because for you Baby Bird, the task is much more a struggle.

The West Indian Whirlwind mouths ‘oh, I can talk now?’ Caroline gives him a slow, smug smirk before she motions to him that the floor is his. He huffs at her before turning his attention to the camera. The King of New York champion, who may not be ‘king’ for much longer anyway, clears his throat.

Sparrow: I said I’m lookin’ at a secret opponent tonight. That’s because only fate, destiny, whatever you wanna call it know who I face in tonight’s Anarchy & KONY Unification match. I have to be ready for whoever, however. See now I might say I have specific goals comin’ back to Liberty Pro. There are wins I wanted, opportunities that slipped through m’fingers time and time again. It was good to be King of New York champion but I want more. I’s gonna prove to be more. Especially after the last year I had. ...That said, whoever it is? They’ll be comin’ in hot. They won’t be as fresh as me so that’ll mean they gotta get things done quick. Whether that means explosive out the gate or a bit of cunnin’ is anyone’s guess.

Sparrow’s manager pats him gently on the shoulder, even leaving a finely manicured hand there. His eyes slowly laid on her limb and onto her.

Caroline Dallins: Now that is where I come in Baby Bird. I know you don’t want me here, you’d rather me be far from your career as possible but I--me. I am going to make sure that you have as much presence in this company as you could want. In fact I need to go talk to Lily Callaghan real quick. She might be interested in some ideas I have for this...King Of New York championship.

Sparrow: ...What’s the idea?

Caroline Dallins: Oh just something simple. Something you had mentioned on social media about ‘King stay the king’. I feel like, with New York being such a diverse melting pot and that old adage of ‘if you come for the king, you best not miss’...Imagine if you would, if all title challengers for this title of yours...Get to pick their shot. However they want you to defend the title, that’s what you must do. They’re good on the mat, they decide the title match is ‘submissions only’ for instance. Maybe they’re stronger than you could ever hope to be. Four Corners match. Maybe...Maybe they’ve got a tag partner with an axe to grind. Handicap match, no matter who pins you, they become champion.

The West Indian Whirlwind’s face is one of frank disbelief.

Sparrow: You...You ain’t serious.

The smile on the face of the former multi-time world champion is one of utter and complete heinousness.

Caroline: Character building, little brother. I am all about character building.

BACKSTAGE
Brendan Samuels: “That… That is what I live for.”

The Wrestling stated, clearly drenched in sweat after a titanic encounter with Ricky and Carli, and in his hands was the Liberty Pro United States Championship belt. The Irishman stared at it in wonder for a moment, letting the achievement sink in as he basked in the moment of his hard earned victory.

Brendan Samuels: “The roar of the crowd, the lights from above burning yer eyes, yer mind racing as ye plot out ye next move an’ the beating of yer heart as ye try to keep it all in check. That is what I be in that ring for. No shadiness, no bullshite, an’ dare I say it, no acts of damn piracy. Just competitors in the ring, giving their absolute all… for a long lost treasure.”

Still in his ring gear, Samuels grabbed a towel, mopping his brow before fastening the championship belt around his waist.

Brendan Samuels: “There be pride in this belt. I feel the pride holding it, an’ I’ll be carrying that pride with me wherever I go with this here championship. An’ there was a lot of pride left in that ring tonight. Davis. Rodriguez. No matter me thoughts on ye preparations, or ye mind set, I’ll give yer credit. Both of ye gave ye all tonight in that ring. I could see it in ye eyes, an’ I could feel it with every strike. Ye both wanted this, ye both wanted it bad…”

Samuels smiled, his face full of excitement and pride, a very rare showing of emotion from the usually stoic Kraken.

Brendan Samuels: “But me name is Brendan Samuels, an’ I am The Wrestling.”

Looking at the championship around his waist, his breath still heavy due to the recent contest

Brendan Samuels: “An’ Astrid. My world, my wife, the mother of my children an’ my co-captain on this ship we call life. Thank ye for standin’ by me on my journey back to this stage. This is for ye.”

He pointed towards the screen, a clear loving message to his wife who was watching on, dedicating his mammoth victory to her.

Brendan Samuels: “But now, now it comes to something for me.”

The Wrestling then stated, his tone growing more serious. It was at this point that the footage suddenly cut to a flashback, one of 280 days ago, the footage mixed with static, filmed in monochrome.

April 7th - Liberation 62


Max grabbed his Gotham Championship and exited the ring, yelling out that ‘nobody’ can take away his gold. Standing at the top of the entrance way though was The Kraken, Brendan Samuels. Brendan looked down at Max and clapped. Cerrano yelled up at Samuels, telling him to take that stupid and smug look off of his face and to get out of his arena. Brendan ignored Cerrano. Cerrano waved him off and chose to exit through the crowd.

The camera then reverted back to Samuels, arms crossed and staring into the lens.

Brendan Samuels: “Now I ain’t much of a talker, an’ I may as well have spoken on camera here tonight more than I have in a calendar year. But some things need to be said… Ye stepped out there that night, did ye thing in the ring, but in the weeks leading up to it… Ye had been saying that no one could, or should, step up to you. An’ guess what? Someone did. So in an act of fear, ye did this:

April 7th - Liberation 62

Meanwhile, Samuels didn’t have much time to celebrate as Max Cerrano was in the ring and he laid out Brendan with the Gotham Championship. He stood over The Kraken and raised the Gotham Championship in the air, telling Samuels to never disrespect him again.

The footage had cit again to a flashback of the last episode of Liberty prior to the big break, one of Brendan Samuels trying to celebrate a hard fought victory over Owen Gonsalves, before Max Cerrano, the Gotham Champion, struck.

Brendan Samuels: “That night be very fresh in me memory, Max. An’ ye should know that well enough. An’ despite this not being a unification match due to what has just occurred, with what now has both the backstage and the fans buzzing about the possibilities… This contest has lost none of it’s flavour for me.”

Samuels paused for a moment, looking down to his newly won title.

Brendan Samuels: “Winning this championship is one of the highest of honours, an’ I will do this belt right like none have done before. But ye? Max? What comes is what ye deserve. An’ while ye be fresh as a daisy after I have given it all against two competitors already… What I have been planning has been building for each and every day, 280 over, just to get to this moment.”

Glaring once more at the screen, and composing himself to go at it all over again, that cool and confident grin appeared on the iceman's features.

Brendan Samuels: “The Wrestling never forgets. Watch for my flag… And prepare to meet the deepest, darkest part of the ocean floor.”

BACKSTAGE
We cut backstage to Max Cerrano pacing around backstage, the look in his eyes are intense as ever. Dante Chapel walks into the frame, microphone in hand, ready to ask the Gotham Champion a few questions.

DANTE CHAPEL: Max, your match is up next and I was hoping I could get a few words from you on your opponent, Brendan Samuels. A man who you’ve had problems with for quite some time.

MAX CERRANO: I’ll give Samuels his due, he won the US Championship, did it in a triple threat match and everything but the fact remains, I’m the Gotham Champion. I’m the man in Liberty that hasn’t been pinned, that hasn’t been submitted.

Max leans closer to Dante and snarls.

MAX CERRANO: Nobody comes close to me. I’m the true champion of Liberty Pro, I have the most prestigious championship right here on my shoulder and it’s because of what I’ve done with it. None of you can touch me. And as for whatever other questions you might have? Save them. Because I’ll have all the answers out there in the ring.

Max shoves past Dante, knocking the interview down, as he heads out to the ring.

BACKSTAGE
We open on the Liberty Championship sitting on a table. The light reflects on the title just right to make the gold and gems shine as majestically as possible. The shot widens a bit to show the Liberty Pro, Derrick La’Bell, standing behind the belt. He looks at the camera with a big smile on his face.

Derrick: I never got a chance to be Liberty Champion…

He pauses to look down at the title sitting before him

Derrick: Almost a year ago I beat 3 of the best wrestlers in Liberation, stood tall with my hand raised and a new belt around my waist… and then the shutdown happened.

He leans in towards the title, smiling a bit at the memory of the moment he won the Liberty Championship. However, the joy and bubble in his voice aren’t there.

Derrick: What was supposed to be the culmination of all of my hard work in my wrestling career became one of my darkest moments, because I didn't get to continue that momentum. After the shutdown, it took me nearly six months to find consistent work, but it doesn’t feel… like this…

His face gets a little concerned for a second as he transitions.

Derrick: That’s when I realized, Liberty is my home. Every time this company shutdown, my career drops, and every time it opens back up my career soars. My livelihood is this company and I am so proud to finally be representing this company as your Liberty Champion…

Derrick picks up the Liberty Championship and places it on his shoulder. We see the new champion’s competitive side, as he begins to talk about his opponent for the night.

Derrick: TJ, my brother, I ain’t ever seen anyone grind the way you do. If there was anyone I would like to face the first night back, the Freedom Champion is without a doubt my first pick. Being a fan of this company AND a champion, I’m so hyped for this match it’s not even funny. Just two boys repping the Islands of New York, doing what they do best in the city we were raised in. How could you not be hyped?

He pauses for a moment.

Derrick: Does it suck we ain’t unifying the titles tonight? Absolutely, but it doesn’t stop us from trying to prove which of us is the better champion. None of what went down with Nathan and his ex-wife keeps us from seeing who can dig down deep enough and pull the win out.

He looks at his title with a smile.

Derrick: I know you’ve been aching just as much as I have to wave our banners again and make this company must-see again, but it’s like I said… you had a chance to be the top champion… I however have not, and my first night back holding my championship on my brand, there’s no way you are hungrier than I am. There’s no way you yearn for this as much as I do. It may be close. It may come down to that last ounce of will power left. However, I will beat you tonight, and send you to BACK to Freedom as the second best champ we have in Liberty, because you may have the Technique… but I’M A BEAST!!!

“So, good luck tonight, TJ, and I hope you get the Freedom you deserve!”

Derrick winks at the camera one time before walking away.

BACKSTAGE
Liberation continues as we fade backstage to the halls of the Callaghan Warehouse. The camera continues to roam the halls until...

It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you
Without a strong rhyme to step to
Think of how many weak shows you slept through
Time's up, I'm sorry I kept you ♫

... the opening notes of Eric B & Rakim's "I Know You Got Soul" are heard. Around the corner walks TJ Techniques, the reigning and defending Freedom Champion. The last time TJ was in a Liberty Pro ring, he went one on one against the current King of New York Champion. Th KONY champion may no longer be Mighty in name, but he's still mighty in talent. Him and Sparrow main evented the last Liberty card, which pitted champion versus champion. Tonight, TJ finds himself in a similar situation, yet the stakes are much higher. This time, it's a Unification Match against a much larger and equally dangerous opponent, Derrick La'Bell.

TJ Techniques: Y'all already know who it is. Liberty, what's good? It really has been a long time, hasn't it? It's been damn near a year since Liberty last ran a show. A lot has changed since that time. Some of the people who used to run up and down these halls are long gone. Some of us went on to have successful runs in other organizations. I won a belt. A couple of other people won a belt. We all couldn't be as nice as a man Sparrow and hold two titles at once.

TJ says with a smirk as he gives a nod to his friend.

TJ Techniques: But we've all had our own individual taste of success. But the more things change, the more things stay the same. Liberty might have come back, but the brands are still split and tonight, you're going to see the best of the best go at it. You don't need me to remind you. You've seen the card. You've seen the names that have been brought in here. Some new. Some old. But let's talk about the top of that card. Let's talk about how two brothers are the symbols of excellence here tonight. Let's talk about how in one corner, representing Liberation, it's gonna be Derrick La'Bell, The Beast himself... taking on yours truly, Freedom's own, The Funky Technician, The Meaning of Dope, The Crown Prince of Mid-Air... the Freedom Champion, TJ Techniques.

TJ rubs his hands with anticipation before continuing.

TJ Techniques: This match right here is gonna be something else. You're looking at power and striking verses speed and agility. They say that styles make fights. So I can't think of a better clash of styles that's gonna make a recipe for a classic. I got all the respect in the world for you, Derrick. You're a two sport athlete. And you not just someone that just dabbles in both sports. You excel in both sports. You been the man in the ring as well as the cage. When people think of the great two sport athletes of the last 30 some odd years, they gonna think of Bo Jackson. They gonna think of Deion Sanders. They gonna think of Kylar Murray. But now, they can add your name to the list. That's impressive, bruh. It says a lot. It says that no matter the arena and no matter the field of play, you come to win. Well that's great, because that's exactly what I've come here to do tonight.

TJ lets that last line linger.

TJ Techniques: You say you've been looking forward to this one? Good. If anything, I sure hope you've been peeping the technique because I've spent the past year making my name known throughout this industry. But I won't talk bout the things I've accomplished elsewhere. I'll stick right here to home because that's what Liberty Pro is to me. See, when other places wouldn't give me a look after ACM came and went and after Evolution closed it's doors, Liberty took me in. They gave me that spotlight. They gave me that look. They handed me the ball and said "here kid, run with it." And you wanna know what I did with that ball, D? I took it to the house. I went head to head with the best of the best of the damn best that this company had. Kaia Granger. Mighty Sparrow. Helena Noir. Max Cerrano's hatin' ass. Just to name a few. Was I unbeatable? Hardly. I took my lumps. I took my losses. But as you can see by this championship right here...

TJ slings the Freedom championship, or "Old Glory" as he used to call it, across his shoulder.

TJ Techniques: I damn sure won more than I lost. While others moved on, removed the mentions of Liberty Pro from their bios, I kept mine right there for everyone to see. I kept it there so they could see who I represented. This championship? I still displayed it proudly because I know one day, one day, we'd be back.

TJ Techniques: And here we are.

TJ nods proudly.

TJ Techniques: Derrick, this match is for two of the biggest prizes in all of Liberty Pro. The Liberation and the Freedom Championships. We will walk into that match as champions. The loser? He will still be a champion in his own right. But only one of us is walking out of here with two belts, D. Only one of us is walking out as the Champ-Champ. Only one of us is unifying the Liberty and the Freedom Championships. I don't come here tonight to disrespect you. I could never dim your light. I will gladly give you your flowers. I don't come here to hurt you. You've never once crossed me and you've never talked out of the side of your neck, so we don't have any beef. It's all love. What I have come here to do, D, is beat you. And that's what I will do. It won't be easy. But the bigger they are, the harder they fall and bruh you will fall hard in that ring tonight. Just know that it's strictly business. The respect will always be there. But tonight? I'm coming for mine. Now peep that...