2/15/08 SB - Wu-Tang Forever

[sonstuds]

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{The insufferable ticking of an old cat clock rings in their ears as they find themselves in the apartment of one Matthew Werner. Confined in the small kitchen of this man’s home are two men at a crossroads; EBR and Alex Sean. For EBR, he approaches Superbrawl after having seen his career laid before him and his apparent downfall spelled out. Months of wasted time with CBT as well as multiple bad decisions have left EBR to question how relevant he still is in today’s WFWF. After all, it could all be karmic as it was about a year and a half ago when EBR, Alex Sean, and Calvin Lee pledged to revolutionize the stagnant WFWF and bring about a more promising era for the company. While this was the Anointed’s mission as a whole, it was a personal mission for Alex Sean and moreso simply a means to an end for EBR. Once Alex Sean left, EBR was left holding the proverbial bag, forced to reap what others had sewn and was stripped of his rightful WFWF Tag Team Championship amongst other things. Alex Sean, on the other hand, would tell you a different story completely as to the fallout of The Anointed. After all it was Reverend Shadow who terminated Alex Sean’s contract without him ever leaving or quitting in any capacity. Many, well, most all actually, felt that Sean still made a personal choice to leave rather than make it a point to stay in the WFWF. Either way, he left, going into exile for something in the range of thirteen months. Now that he has returned, he finds himself lacking the motivation and direction that he has had in previous years. He should go out and find his wife; Rebecca Marie. He should go out and make an attempt at competing once more. He should be thinking about moving out of Matthew Werner’s apartment. But he hasn’t done any of those things, and more importantly, he really doesn’t care to bother at all. For all these reasons and more, they meet each other with an awkward silence. Over time, the longer the silence holds, the harder it seems for them to break the ice, so to speak.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] So…

Alex Sean:[/color] Yes?

EBR:[/COLOR] … I mean, was there something you called me for?

Alex Sean:[/color] Oh, right.

EBR:[/COLOR] I just mean specifically … because I do have a title match to prepare for …

Alex Sean:[/color] I understand…

{Nice going, E.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] I didn’t mean to come off as rude…

Alex Sean:[/color] Well that’s good. Truth be told, Werner asked me to call you.

EBR:[/COLOR] Why in the world would he do that?

Alex Sean:[/color] I’m pretty sure he wants me to ask you if I can move in with you.

EBR:[/COLOR] Oh…

Alex Sean:[/color] Yeah… I don’t think his guest bedroom will ever stop smelling like bong water now.

EBR:[/COLOR] Damn.

Alex Sean:[/color] Yeah. I mean, I guess I understand it. Like, how do you explain that to the grandparents?

EBR:[/COLOR] They might get high man, you don’t know.

Alex Sean:[/color] You think?

EBR:[/COLOR] Well yeah. Senior marijuana smokers are on the rise in this country… makes sense if you think about it.

Alex Sean:[/color] Yeah, I mean what else are you going to do at 65?

EBR:[/COLOR] Exactly.

Alex Sean:[/color] Yeah man … good stuff.

EBR:[/COLOR] Of course, you’d probably know that yourself … if you didn’t leave for over a year without saying anything and leaving us all behind to clean up the mess.

{Possibly the most pointed comment of all time, but hey, at least it’s out there now.}[/color]

Alex Sean:[/color] … That’s not really why I called you, E.

EBR:[/COLOR] Well what did you expect? I was gonna call your bitch for you?

Alex Sean:[/color] Excuse me?

EBR:[/COLOR] You heard me.

Alex Sean:[/color] Well watch your ing mouth then.

{And back to the silence…}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Uh … hrm.

Alex Sean:[/color] Yeah …

EBR:[/COLOR] Well then … Why did you call me Alex?

Alex Sean:[/color] Well E, truth be told, I’m concerned for you. I’m concerned because it was, what, a year and a half ago that we came back with The Anointed? We came back and took names man. We took out everyone in our way and didn’t stop.

EBR:[/COLOR] That’s glorifying it, but go on.

Alex Sean:[/color] Well, since I’ve been gone … I’ll be frank, I didn’t follow the WFWF during my exile because I figured you and Calvin could handle yourselves. After all, you’re both grown men. But since I’ve been back, I’ve been watching what you’ve been up to since you came back and, truth be told, I don’t like what I see. You’ve spent the better part of the past year teaming with sub-standard, rabies infected mid-carders.

EBR:[/COLOR] Well he didn’t have rabies then, in all fairness.

Alex Sean:[/color] He was still intellectually- disabled.

{Touche.}[/color]

Alex Sean:[/color] You’ve involved yourself in feuds with inadequate, inferior individuals that held you down and stopped you from achieving true greatness. Now, you compete for a title that’s meaningless. A fake, insignificant prop created for mid-carders who weren’t good enough for the Undisputed Title, the title that we created. And I’m pretty sure I saw you in the background of a United Way commercial.

EBR:[/COLOR] Well Alex, you’re forgetting one thing; You left, not me. You want me to hold up to your standards but you never really tell me what your standards are. What did you want me to do; Continue our “revolution”? With who Alex? Did you want me and Calvin to “take the WFWF by force” or whatever quotable monologue snippet you came up with during your run? Even you saw that our mission was pointless, so don’t even come after me like I made the mistake because you’re the one that copped out.

Alex Sean:[/color] You caught me at a bad time with that conversation, E. And honestly, even if I did feel that it was going to fail, that doesn’t explain you giving up on it. And more importantly, it doesn’t explain you letting yourself become mediocre.

EBR:[/COLOR] You know what, truthfully, I think you just can’t admit that maybe the guys nowadays aren’t the worst generation of this company. I mean, look at it like this; What would we have done in 2003 if like, FC, Stuart, and Frost came back and said that we all were destroying the WFWF and they were going to save it? We would’ve crap on that. More importantly, we would’ve been right.

Alex Sean:[/color] What’s your point?

EBR:[/COLOR] My point, is it’s easy to look down on a company when you have a friend as the owner whose intent on killing it himself and books you semi-actively. I’ve been in the trenches for almost a year, and as much as I’d like to think otherwise, these guys aren’t the B-Show mid-carders you’d have them be, Alex. And at Superbrawl, there’s a good chance I’m gonna be in the fight of my career.

Alex Sean:[/color] That may be true, but you’re forgetting one difference between us and them that you can’t explain away.

EBR:[/COLOR] And that is?

Alex Sean:[/color] We’ve earned this more than they have, or ever can. They never had the job of building a company from the ground up, and we did. They never had to compete with Frost, Destroyer, Raider, Shape, any of those guys, and we did. They’ve never done anything notable or great. Our careers may have been hit with great success and equal great failure, but we lived our careers, they merely existed theirs. You’ve lost sight of that, and that bothers me much more than I’d like.

EBR:[/COLOR] Well, remember, you did leave.

Alex Sean:[/color] That’s true … but then again, I guess it did work out in a sense. After all, both you and Calvin do have title shots, no matter how meaningless they are.

{Good point.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] So … have you heard “In The Air Tonight” by Phil Collins?

Alex Sean:[/color] Yeah, great song.

EBR:[/COLOR] What do you suppose it’s about, beyond the legend?

Alex Sean:[/color] Could be about drowning, or airborne bacteria…

[sonstuds]

[Blackness is all that is seen.]

[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] This is how it ends . . . this is the moment, you know? Whichever decision I make, whichever action I take, whichever path I choose . . . it’s all on my shoulders. It’s time to put up. It’s now or never. Do or die. It all comes down to this. It ends either way. It’s just the difference between winning and losing . . . it’s all up to God now. God and myself.

[As the screen fades onto the setting EBR is shown sitting in a leather chair, controller in his hand. He presses various buttons before he crunches his fist in triumph and nods his head.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Quarterback sneak on 4th & Goal. Never fails.

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[Various shots of EBR through the years are shown, both videos and pictures, to the tune of “Just A Friend” by Biz Markie.][/color]

Pursuit of Perfection; the Story of Three Initials and A Match

Filmed between December 1st 2007 – January 30th 2008

Narration by Nigel Cohen

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EBR; A career that expands through three different federations. Multiple wins, championships, and a Hall of Fame induction mark his legacy. In April 2007 he made his return to the WFWF.

[/color]

From there EBR spent several months in what he self-described as “a whole lot of nothing”.

[Footage is shown of EBR and CBT winning the Tag Team Titles, followed by EBR kneeing CBT in the face as he dives off the top rope while attempting the Spike CBT.][/color]

And then, on November 20th of 2007, it happened. A victory which propelled EBR into a number one contendership at the biggest show of the year.

[Clips of EBR in the Scars & Stripes Battle Royal are shown, ultimately ending with EBR suplexing Johnny Valentine over the rope. “Footage not previously shown” flashes under the bottom of the screen as we see EBR in the backstage area moments after the match, closing in face-to-screen on a nearby camera.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] EBR baby! I be on dat Kryptonite, straight up on dat Kryptonite! I’m on it! Wooo! I be on it all day, straight up pimp! Now holla for your boy! That’s why bitches have pictures of my dick on their wall!

[The video stops and freezes as it gradually turns black and white.][/color]

And this is his story . . .

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[Nigel Cohen and EBR walk along a park walkway.][/color]

Nigel Cohen:[/color] So what exactly is it you wanted use to do?

EBR:[/COLOR] I figure this is like a “before” shoot, you know? Like on HBO when comedians are having stand up specials and they’ll show them preparing for it? That’s what this can be. We can call it “Pursuit of Perfection; the EBR story”.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] You’re undefeated?

EBR:[/COLOR] Well, no.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Then how is that a good title?

EBR:[/COLOR] It sounds intriguing. Very intriguing.

Clearly I was talking to an enigma. To truly get a grasp of this complicated man we first had to get an understanding of who EBR is. What does he enjoy–

[The setting quickly changes to both Nigel and EBR sitting across from one another at McDonalds.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Movies, music, sports in general, hrm . . . oh, and sex.

And what does he dislike?.

EBR:[/COLOR] Vacuuming. Not the actual process of vacuuming, but I have Central Vac right? So I have to go turn on a switch in my garage, then lug it up the stairs. It’s not heavy; it’s just a long, thick cord. But it gets tangled so that’s a pain. Works better than most other vacuums though, so I guess that’s something.

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Talking Head – Sam Ratliff, childhood friend

Sam:[/color] I’m one of the few people who actually knew E back when he lived in Toronto. It never surprised me when he left. He always had big ambitions and dreams. I take a lot credit for that seeing as how I was the one who lent him “Only Built 4 Cuban Linx” by Raekwon.

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Talking Head – Jay Runnels, friend

Jay:[/color] The first word that comes to mind when talking about Eric would probably have to be “reliable”. If I need him to back me up on an alibi I know he’ll have my back.

[Pause.][/color]

Jay:[/color] Not talking by experience or anything. I’m just saying that he pays his taxes. That’s how he’s reliable. Yeah.

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Talking Head – Robert Weinstein, agent

Robert Weinstein:[/color] Let me tell you something about Eric; I’ve known him for going on around six years now. I was there when he signed his first ever contract, which I negotiated mind you. Afterwards he looked at me and I’ll never forget what he said – “thanks, ‘appreciate it”. He’s a good kid. Or middle aged man, I can’t remember how old he is. He looks like he’s about thirty five now, actually . . .

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Talking Head – Darrell, friend

Darrell:[/color] So I’m gonna be in a movie?

[/color]

Darrell:[/color] I just accomplished the same thing as Al Pacino. That’s messed up.

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Everyone we interviewed spoke famously of EBR, surely this man must have skeletons in his closet.

[EBR and Nigel walk down the street, apparently in mid-conversation.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] My big flaw? I care too much. I’m looking to get down to New Orleans and help rebuild, which is perfect cause I’m a Hornets fan. I could probably get courtside seats pretty easily on account of . . . ‘ya know . . .

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Your hat says “Raptors” on it.

EBR:[/COLOR] Had to cheer for someone before the Raptors became a team. I’m not a fair-weather fan; I cheer for the Dolphins, so yeah. Albeit, they’re one of the most respected franchises in NFL history and are thus far the only team to go undefeated for an entire season, but I only really became a fan during ’84 when they went to the Superbowl.

[They continue to walk, Nigel staying silent.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] . . . What?

Nigel Cohen:[/color] This isn’t the first time you’ve gone out of your way to have yourself filmed. Why is that?

EBR:[/COLOR] Alex Sean did it once and it made me feel smart and important. Maybe it’s an ego thing. I had to get you because the guy I used to use won’t work with me. I signed my checks as George Hardaway. Oddly enough it took him about five months before he actually noticed. Yadda yadda yadda, he threatened legal action and the documentary now belongs to him. Well, that’s not true. It was more of an interview if anything.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] So that’s the only reason you picked me?

EBR:[/COLOR] Not exactly. You’re British and I’ve always been led to believe that the British dominate film. That’s not offensive is it?

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Why would it be offensive?

EBR:[/COLOR] British people tend to be very serious and cranky. Sorry . . .?

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Not offended.

EBR:[/COLOR] Ah, you must not have been born in England.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Say, when are we going to get to you actually preparing for your match?

EBR:[/COLOR] We’ll get to it. I have time on my hands.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Then why not go to New Orleans and do your thing?

EBR:[/COLOR] Not that much time.

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Talking Head – Calvin Lee, wrestler

Calvin Lee:[/color] Me and E? Yeah, our relationship is pretty good. I don’t call him or anything like that, but when we’re together we have nice chemistry.

[Shot changes to EBR and Calvin standing in a hallway, silently drinking coffee.][/color]

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Talking Head – Phillip Schneider (Obo), wrestler

Phillip Schneider:[/color] EBR . . . he’s interesting. He seems like someone I can depend on, kind of . . . I think he’s gay. I mean, I’ve never seen him with a women or anything . . .

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Talking Head – CBT, wrestler (deceased)

CBT:[/COLOR] Hahaha . . . EBR . . . well . . .

[The audio for CBT cuts out and dubbing begins.][/color]

CBT:[/COLOR] EBR is a great guy. He was always a much better wrestler than me and we shouldn’t have stripped him of the Tag Titles. He definitely slipped when he stomped on my head. Didn’t even hurt that bad. He’s cool like that.

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[The camera follows EBR and Nigel as they walk down a hallway.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Alright, just film me talking to my agent. It’ll make me look interesting and intelligent.

[They reach a door as EBR knocks. They all wait silently.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Any of you guys ever see “Click”?

[After a few seconds the door opens as Weinstein simply stares.][/color]

Robert Weinstein:[/color] . . . What are you doing?

EBR:[/COLOR] They’re just going to film us talking for a little while.

Robert Weinstein:[/color] Hey E, come in for a second.

[He walks into the office as the camera crew attempts to do the same, only to be stopped at Weinstein’s palm.][/color]

Robert Weinstein:[/color] Just give us a moment please.

[As the door closes the camera stays fixated on the window and the slightly open blinds, giving a small glimpse to EBR and Weinstein standing in the middle of the office. Their conversation is picked up by the camera.][/color]

Robert Weinstein:[/color] What are you doing?

EBR:[/COLOR] Just going to film us talking, no big deal.

Robert Weinstein:[/color] You should have asked first.

EBR:[/COLOR] Didn’t think you’d care.

Robert Weinstein:[/color] I don’t want them filming me doing my job. Why would I want that? If I wanted a bunch of cameras I’d get my own reality show, and I probably could with writer’s strike and all.

EBR:[/COLOR] Alright, we’ll just rehearse a conversation or something . . .

Robert Weinstein:[/color] Yeah, I don’t think you’re listening. This whole “filming” thing isn’t gonna fly. The interview was one thing but the line is being drawn.

EBR:[/COLOR] I’m awfully disappointed.

Robert Weinstein:[/color] Yeah, that’s a shame. So what did you come to see me about anyways?

[EBR moves his head towards the door.][/color]

Robert Weinstein:[/color] Are you serious? I think it’d be for the best if you just leave. Please, just get out.

EBR:[/COLOR] Can you just shake my hand so we can get it fi-

Robert Weinstein:[/color] Seriously. Leave.

[The door opens as EBR steps out.][/color]

Nigel Cohen:[/color] So . . .

EBR:[/COLOR] Let’s go.

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[EBR and his friends sit at a restaurant booth, everyone looking at the camera sans EBR.][/color]

Jay:[/color] So . . .

Brad:[/color] What’s with the camera?

EBR:[/COLOR] Just filming my everyday life. Pretend they’re not there.

Darrell:[/color] Alright, if you guys could rape one woman without consequences who would it be?

[EBR quickly looks at the camera bug eyed as the scene skips.][/color]

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[Again, Nigel and EBR sit across from one another at a table.][/color]

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Say, I think it’s time that we begin to take control of this project.

EBR:[/COLOR] How so?

Nigel Cohen:[/color] In the time that we’ve been here you’ve yet to actually prepare for your match.

EBR:[/COLOR] I’m getting focused.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] We only have so much film so it’d be best to spend it on the things that . . . you know . . . we can actually use.

EBR:[/COLOR] Don’t follow.

[The shot changes to EBR standing outside of his locker room during a WFWF show. His ear is pressed to the door.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] This guy has this annoying white dog that really bugs me. I find it best to avoid it altogether.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] And what are you gonna do if it’s in there?

EBR:[/COLOR] I’d probably change in the restroom. It’s that annoying.

[The screen then changes to both standing outside of a washroom.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] You ever wonder if people masturbate in there?

[Calvin Lee walks out, wiping his hands with paper towel.][/color]

Calvin Lee:[/color] Hey E, what’s up?

[Both Nigel and EBR look at one another.][/color]

Calvin Lee:[/color] Oh God Dammit, I wasn’t . . . screw you guys.

[It resumes to EBR and Nigel at the table.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] What are you saying?

Nigel Cohen:[/color] We’re taking control of this.

EBR:[/COLOR] . . . Fine.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] It’s not you, it’s just -

EBR:[/COLOR] No . . . no . . . it’s already out there . . .

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Talking Head – EBR, ex-director

[/b]

EBR:[/COLOR] Losing creative control doesn’t bother me but it does make me wonder. This could make a sudden change and come off completely different then what was originally started. Sort of like Boy Meets World. The first season is really night and day compared to the last one.[/quote]

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{“EBR as World Heavyweight Champion; A Better Tomorrow”.

Something, probably subconsciously, gave him the impression the once glorious phrase was no longer as orgasmic as it once was. The horror of what could happen with himself as Champion . . .

The success would probably go to his head. Nothing good ever seems to happen when he’s a Champion in the WFWF. He was a jerk in 2003, the Anointed died when he and Alex won the Tag Titles in 2006, and tragedy struck in 2007. He kind of killed CBT. That guy was riding along happily, either unaware of or content with his own ignorance. Then he gets involved with EBR, and becomes understandably distraught at being the weaker link. He does what anyone with a Napoleonic complex would have to do and challenges EBR, only to lose horribly that grave September night.

At this point his mind is shot, and after realizing that he will never ever, ever ever, ever ever? Never ever get on his level his self-worth is at an all-time low, and for one last shot at redemption he gets mixed up with Pierce Deville – boom, rabies.

EBR killed CBT. Nice going, E.

Nah, that was sarcasm. Bad move by E. His talent is like a second-hand smoke that kills people indirectly, eventually, and slowly. Best make sure no one else ever makes the connection to CBT’s downfall, otherwise his outstanding reputation will need more of an improvement. Of course, no one really likes CBT or cares that he’s going to die (or is dead, no one cares enough to really find out), but people don’t like OJ anymore either, and EBR isn’t the one who played Nordberg.

It’s more of the same if he’s Champion. More guys trying to start beef, more guys who end up dying months after. EBR can’t have that on his conscience. He’s a humanitarian, dammit. He can’t be physically endangering other people’s lives. Or his own. Maybe all that success forces him into some type of social reclusion, feeling that no one is good enough for him. And then what happens if he loses the title? Probably suicide. It’s not like he’d have anyone to stop him.

“That’s why I say hey man, nice shot!”.

Gah! Chilling.

Slayer won the title and lost it. He later killed himself. Is that really the path EBR wants to go down?

Blah, this is messed up. Winning the Heavyweight Championship can kill him among others. That’s not as glorious as he once thought. And by winning the top WFWF title would he not kind of be becoming the WFWF? He doesn’t like the WFWF, which means he wouldn’t like himself . . .

“That’s why I say hey man, nice shot!”.

. . . Oh God.

Who knows, maybe this feeling will surpass. Let’s look at this objectively, no strings attached. Pro, he wins the title. Con, he loses.

. . . Yeah, let’s not think about that.

Hrm . . . “EBR as World Heavyweight Champion; A Better Tomorrow”.

Really?

Well, this took an unexpected turn.}[/color]

[sonstuds]

Talking Head – Ray Mano and Jesse Owens, commentators

Ray Mano:

[/color] EBR, right now, is one of the better wrestlers in the WFWF. He may have one of the smartest wrestling minds in the entire locker room. He knows his strengths and he capitalizes and expands off that. His problem is that ever since he returned he has come off as unmotivated and uninspired.

Jesse Owens:[/color] He’s lazy.

Ray Mano:[/color] . . . Basically.

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Talking Head – EBR, humanitarian

EBR:[/COLOR] I can’t say I’m not in good shape because I am –

[Shots play of EBR gasping for breath verses CBT and calling time-out verses Kurt Burton.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Am I in the best [finger quotes][/color] “wrestling shape”? Probably not. Should I logically get into good wrestling shape? Probably. Am I caving into pressure? No. I look at it like this – if I can win a number one contendership with a certain body then I can win the Heavyweight Championship with the same body. But, if I get in better shape I’m . . .

[Slight pause as he toggles decisions in his mind.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Yeah, I probably would be unstoppable and unconquerable. Like Godzilla. Well, he did die at the end. So Godzilla before the last ten minutes of the movie.

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Talking Head – John Lott, trainer

John Lott:[/color] In a nut shell he’s an example of what happens when you don’t do cardio.

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[EBR and John Lott sit opposite one another in John Lott’s office.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] I’m a little confused by the camera.

EBR:[/COLOR] Just pretend it’s not there.

[Staring at the camera, EBR continues.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] So John, would you help train me?

John Lott:[/color] We already had this conversation . . . I said yes . . .

[Nigel’s voice is heard from the background.][/color]

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Eric, stop looking at the camera. It doesn’t look natural.

EBR:[/COLOR] Right, my bad.

John Lott:[/color] Why are we filming this?

EBR:[/COLOR] So the casual viewer knows that I’m making an effort.

[He turns to the camera and gives a thumb up.][/color]

Nigel Cohen:[/color] What did I just tell you?

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[In his locker room EBR stands shirtless, changing as Nigel stares at the door of his locker.][/color]

Nigel Cohen:[/color] What’s with the pictures?

EBR:[/COLOR] I like to use them for motivation.

[He begins to point.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Jesse Owens at the Olympics, Joe Namath after Superbowl III, Wilt Chamberlain holding a piece of paper that says one hundred, Muhammad Ali standing over Sonny Liston . . .

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Why’d you cut out a picture of your face and put it over Ali’s?

[The camera zooms in.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] We all have different ways to get motivated.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] I see . . .

[Both stand silently until EBR slowly closes his locker door.][/color]

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Talking Head – EBR, Da Rockwilder

EBR:[/COLOR] One of the things I like to tell myself before I work out is “don’t let anyone out perform you”. Does it work? The fact that I’m here says evidently no, it does not.

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[Standing outside of a locker room are Nigel and EBR.][/color]

Nigel Cohen:[/color] I have to admit that thus far you’re putting in a lot of work. I know this is big, specifically because of the Championship, but are there any other reasons for it?

EBR:[/COLOR] It feels like a type of match I should work hard for. Well, and I had a dream about it. Probably doesn’t mean anything but it was a nice change of pace. Most of my dreams take place in schools. I’m not sure if that’s just a subconscious way of telling me I should have gone to college or something.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Why not work this hard all the time? Would you not be better?

EBR:[/COLOR] I have a difficult time working out. It starts off alright but then the dedication fizzles. My ideal workout is only about twenty minutes. In order to go for length I’m usually forced to melodramatize and make them seem more important then they really are.

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[Alone, EBR paces in his locker room.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] This is how it ends . . . this is the moment, you know? Whichever decision I make, whichever action I take, whichever path I choose . . . it’s all on my shoulders. It’s time to put up. It’s now or never. Do or die. It all comes down to this. It ends either way. It’s just the difference between winning and losing . . . it’s all up to God now. God and myself

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[EBR stares at his reflection in the mirror.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Don’t blow this. You’re better than that. You’re great! Now go out there and act like it! Be the grown ass man that you are! Yeah!

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[EBR kneels on the floor of his locker room, hands on the bench as he mutters a soft prayer.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] God, show me the way because the Devil is trying to break me down. The only thing I pray is that my feet don’t fail me now. And I don’t think there is nothing I can do now to right my wrongs. I want to talk to God but I’m afraid because we haven’t spoken in so long.

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[Cut back to EBR and Nigel.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] And frankly, I had no real incentive to better myself for the last few months.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Tag Team Championships?

EBR:[/COLOR] Exactly. In my situation it was very hard to want to be successful. CBT didn’t really contribute to the overall team dynamic like I tried to do. He wanted the attention on himself, even when we were winning. His detrimental personality just clashed with what I was trying to build, leaving me uninspired and disinterested. You can’t spell team with “EBR” . . . can spell “better”, though.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] You’d still need a “t”. Could probably take the one from “CBT”.

EBR:[/COLOR] My point exactly.[/quote]

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EBR:[/COLOR] Hey man, what’s up? So uh . . . really need to talk. I know we did this a couple weeks ago so you’re probably, well, I know you’ll be annoyed by this. It’s just that like . . . I really need your help. Some shocking developments have come up and I uh . . . did saying shocking developments come off a little weird? It felt weird . . . anyways, some problems came up and I don’t know how to solve them. Damn, now it sounds like I’m doing math. Well, you probably know what I mean. Anyways, my entire career and future in said career is just so vague and cloudy. Let’s see, I’ll give you an example; if I hold the Heavyweight Championship would I not become the WFWF? And I mean, I can almost see your face right now. It looks condescending and cruel, and I’m sure when you hear this you’ll just mumble that it’s the dumbest thing you’ve ever heard. And you know, it very well may be but I just really need to talk to someone because I may end up making a huge mistake. And like, who else can I really talk to about this?

{Pause.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] This is the moment where you come through and help me out. I just really need you to pick up the phone, preferably like, now.

{Pause.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] If you’re actually just not home then alright, but if you’re just screwing with me and screening the call then that’s not really cool. I can appreciate a good joke and all, and I can see how this is kind of funny, but yeah, big problem here. Sure it’s not AIDs or anything but like, a little big. Well, you might not even have that kind of answering machine that lets you listen to messages while they’re being recorded. In fact, I’m not sure if anyone has those kinds of answering machines. I have this theory they were just created for movies and television. But uh . . . yeah, we can talk about that later. I’d like to hear your opinion on that among other things, specifically, you know, that thing I was calling you about. That was the match, by the way.

{Exasperated sigh.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] I guess you’re not home. Don’t worry, I’m not gonna keep calling you, but uh . . . it’d be a cool move to call me back if you get the chance.

{Pause, followed by a whisper.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Sullee, you’re my only hope.

{Longer pause.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] So yeah, hopefully you’ll call me back. Uh . . . later.

{He hangs up the phone. Damn it’s hard trying to end a message. But this is bad. Very bad. Well, maybe not. It just means he has to solve this for himself.




Got nothing. Damn, he’s going to drive himself crazy. Oh crap, what if he does?

This isn’t gonna be fun.}[/color]
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EBR Press Conference, one week until Superbrawl

[/b]

[EBR sits at the podium, wearing sunglasses while looking all around daper.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] This is why you do this. Everybody wants the chance that I have. Yeah, it is big. It’s very big, especially for me. The entire memo is “look how far we’ve come”. Well, I was at the first Superbrawl. It would be fitting for me to win the World Heavyweight Championship at the five year anniversary.

“Do you feel that destiny is enough to get you the win?”

EBR:[/COLOR] Not at all. Not at all. I’ve faced Thunder, I know first hand what he can do so by no means am I underestimating him or the match. I’m going to prepare for this like anyone in my situation would. As big as this may be for me it’s equally big for him, and I understand that. He has the chance to play the role of spoiler and ruin my entire night, much like I have the chance to do the same and take home his Championship. Should be fun and I’m looking forward to it.

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

Talking Head – EBR, International Pancake Contest Champion

EBR:[/COLOR] John and I have worked together a few times. I seem to get good results. And he really helps me with my wrestling.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Talking Head – John Lott, trainer

John Lott:[/color] I’m not really familiar with wrestling or the ways to succeed. I tend to just give him an analysis on what I think he should do, but obviously that doesn’t hold much weight. I’ve told him this many times and he seems to ignore it. I think he’s just a really big “Rocky” fan.

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

Talking Head – EBR, “The Line”

EBR:[/COLOR] That’s exactly why I do it.

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[Both sit in Lott’s office, watching video tape.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] Alright, right here what would you do if you were in this match?

EBR:[/COLOR] Punch him in the mouth.

John Lott:[/color] Alright, that can work. Now . . .

[Lott begins to fast forward before stopping.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] What would you do here?

EBR:[/COLOR] Punch him in the mouth.

John Lott:[/color] Okay . . . and . . . in this situation?

EBR:[/COLOR] Stomp on their head. Definitely stomp on their head.

John Lott:[/color] Mmhmm, looking good.

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Talking Head – John Lott, trainer

[/b]

John Lott:[/color] It’s an incredible waste of time.

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

[Lott, Nigel, and EBR stand near a row of elliptical trainers.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] Alright, loosen up your joints a little bit.

Ten minutes later

[Backed up near the window EBR sits against the ledge, heavily panting.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] I’m gonna pass out . . . give me a minute . . .

John Lott:[/color] It’s okay; it was just the first day. This type of thing happens all the time.

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Talking Head – John Lott, trainer

John Lott:[/color] That was a lie.

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

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Eric, are you gonna be okay?

EBR:[/COLOR] Just need a minute . . . just need to catch my breath . . .

[Nigel and John begin to walk off.][/color]

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Are you going to change your plan after this detraction?

John Lott:[/color] Not exactly. He’ll get better quickly. Or die trying.

[Nigel slightly chuckles.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] Well, he doesn’t strike me as someone who’d have the passion to die. Just give up.

[Lott turns back.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] You alright, E?

[He holds up one finger.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] One more minute.

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

[Lying flat on his back with his arms stretched forward and grasping at the bench press bar, Lott spots EBR from behind as he gently and slowly lifts the bar up.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] Tell me when you need to stop, alright?

[As the bar approaches EBR’s chest he quickly and methodically benches it up and down.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] Thatta boy! Keep it up!

EBR:[/COLOR] Argggggggh!!!

John Lott:[/color] C’mon, meathead!

[EBR continues to press before each repetition gets slower and slightly off balance.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] You can do it!

[In an attempted show of support Lott hits EBR in the side of the ribs, causing EBR to gasp for breath, which Lott quickly responds to by grabbing the barbell and placing it back in its starting position. EBR sits up with his head slightly to the side, staring at Lott.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Dude . . .

John Lott:[/color] My mistake.

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

[Lott and Nigel talk as EBR is seated on a bench behind them, completing bicep curls.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] He’s been doing well. Enthusiastic, co-operative, hard working. I’m impressed.

[They attempt to walk forward, but a hand suddenly lands on Lott’s shoulder.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] ‘Need a minute.

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

Talking Head – John Lott, trainer

[/center]

John Lott:[/color] The pyramids weren’t built over night.

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

[John Lott approaches with a piece of paper as EBR finishes up his set of jumping jacks, lightly muttering.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Say I got trouble; trouble in my eyes. I’m just looking for another good time. My heart, my heart, kick start my heart.

John Lott:[/color] Alright, here’s your game plan. Or match plan, whatever you want to call it. Your whole style right now is just fighting people and punching them in the mouth, literally. So you change that around and completely confuse your opponent. Sorta like in Rocky II when he started boxing with the other hand. It’ll shock him and all the pressure will be on him to adjust.

EBR:[/COLOR] So start punching with my left hand?

John Lott:[/color] No, well, that could work. Hold onto that thought. But instead of going out and trying to win, you try not to lose.

EBR:[/COLOR] I believe that’s the same thing.

John Lott:[/color] I mean you wrestle conservatively. Wrestle safe and give your opponent no opportunity to take advantage. Don’t do anything that could jeopardize your own chance at winning, you follow me?

EBR:[/COLOR] Gotcha.

John Lott:[/color] “Bend but don’t break”. If you lengthen and extend the match sooner or later your opponent will make a mistake, and then you can take advantage and win the match. It’s a safe plan, allows you to make any adjustments you may need to make, et cetera. As long as you know your opponent can’t beat you there’s no need for concern.

EBR:[/COLOR] Would this be a bad time to tell you he has beaten me?

John Lott:[/color] . . . Screw it; we’ll go with it anyways.

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

[Nigel interviews EBR as he performs sit ups.][/color]

Nigel Cohen:[/color] You’re a fairly successful wrestler-

EBR:[/COLOR] Thanks.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Are you not a little weary about changing your approach? “If it’s not broke then don’t fix it”?

EBR:[/COLOR] I gotcha, but this is a thinking man’s game. You don’t need to try new things to be successful but it’ll certainly help. I’m not dropping my style, just expanding off it.

Nigel Cohen:[/color] And how would you describe your current style?

EBR:[/COLOR] It’s basic fighting, really. Nothing too fancy. I think Al put it best when he said my ideal performance would be summarized as “raping my opponent”. What I try and do is just come on strong and just go harder, harder, harder, harder, harder, maybe a little faster, slightly harder, take their spirit out and stop when I . . .

[EBR stops and simply sits with his arms on his knees.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] . . . When I uh . . . get tired . . .

[Both look around awkwardly.][/color]

Nigel Cohen:[/color] . . . I’m not sure, with the rating boards and all, if I can actually show that.

EBR:[/COLOR] I think it’d be for the best if you didn’t.[/quote]

[sonstuds]

EBR:[/COLOR] I feel I may be losing my mind.

{Clutching the tape recorder in his hand he paces along the hallway on the second floor of his house, as he’s been doing for the past hour.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] It has been two days since I have made the realization that my life may be changing as I know it. To date I am unsure as to what path I should opt to choose. I am recording this because I fear my sanity may be lost at any moment. And they record things in the movies. It’s making me feel like a pretty big deal if we’re being honest. Of course, it’s only my profession that’s causing such agony . . . is trying to sound smart weird in this situation? Hrm . . . perhaps I’m over exaggerating this entire expedition. My apologies, E.

{It’s too bad that a correct resolution has yet to land on him. By now the sun begins to set and EBR is simply treading over a dark area that is only getting darker.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] In the past month I’ve had the sparring flashes of doubt, but only in a “what if?” capacity. The idea of losing is joined at the hip with the idea of winning. Unfortunately those thoughts are in a much larger capacity then they’ve previously been. As of . . .

{Flashes a glance at his watch.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] . . . A few minutes after five Sullee has yet to call me back. I am anticipating that he never will. It seems that I’m lost and forced to make a decision by myself. Personally, I always saw myself as an independent and charming man. But hey, here we are. One out of two isn’t bad. It’s just . . . I fear the wrong decision, you know? Well, you don’t know, because this is me and I don’t know. Unless somehow this tape recorder has a way to be the voice of reason and give me advice? . . . Yeah, that’s ridiculous. Again, sanity is an issue.

{Desperately he looks at the nails on both of his hands. Concerned he rubs his jaw. And it’s dark in here. Really dark. He pauses briefly before turning his hall light on and nodding with satisfaction.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Slight growth in fingernails, face still clean of stubble.

{The hunger pains start. Must be all that walking back and forth. The carpet seems to have trails in it. It doesn’t help that he hasn’t eaten all day. Perhaps this pending insanity can still be beaten. Hibachi! He begins to walk down his stairs, slowly in an effort to draw creaks which never come. It would seem fitting for his stairs to make a dull, some what intimidating noise. The lack of such leaves him slightly disappointed, actually. As he reaches the bottom floor he gravely flicks as many light switches as available. Darkness can’t be good in this current state of mind. Then again he doesn’t even know what his state of mind is.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] I currently do not know what my state of mind is.

{See? As he arrives in the kitchen he opens his refrigerator with a brief smile, only to be disappointed. He repeats the process with the freezer, receiving the same result.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Note; buy more quick food. I should account for the times when I don’t want to cook anything. Hot Pockets will suffice.

{Producing an apple he enters his living room and collapses on the couch.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Here I am, left to contemplate what my future with the WFWF may be. I sit on the comfortable couch in the house they bought me in a roundabout way and sadly, perhaps, report that simply not showing up has become a viable option. I wish that I had a greater plan but apparently I’m very uncreative, and thus no-showing is a resounding option. Petty, but maybe fitting. I have had time to think about my past tenure and how it ended, specifically why I came back. They called me out and attempted to sully, no pun intended, my once good name. When I returned I vowed revenge, and while I had appeared to let it go because of forgetfulness, this seems to be the perfect counter strike. Disappear in the one moment when they actually want me around.

EBR:[/COLOR] I am unsure how set on this I am but it seems to good to pass up. Every corner is covered; I get my long awaited revenge while also saving face. If I mysteriously go A-WOL and never return I’ll be given the benefit of the doubt. To the general public I’ll be perceived as the creative genius who left before his time like Kurt Cobain and Pauly Shore. I think that everyone can take a lot inspiration from “Pauly Shore Is Dead”, actually.

{In his mind he cuts back to Alex Sean and himself watching “Pauly Shore Is Dead”. They both stare at each other.}[/color]

Alex Sean:[/color] Hrm ..

{He jerks back to the present.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] In retrospect that’s probably what killed the Anointed . . . irregardless, it strikes me as a perfect solution. As long as I leave no leads into what I may be doing I’ll still be revered and admired. I just have to make sure there’s no proof or explanation left behind . . .

{He places the tape recorder in his pocket. The only possible deterrent could be how much he really wants the title. So much work was put into this moment, and for a payoff that would account for none of it . . .

Meh, have to make a few sacrifices along the way. Maybe it’s better this way. After all, these types of thoughts, to this degree, cannot be a good sign. At this point the sad realization hits him – he’s not the “normal” wrestler he thought he was, analyzing every action and every decision he’s made. That’s what happens when you return to do something you never wanted to return to, having to tip-toe around the messes that everyone else calls a standard career.

But right now here it is, the chance to get out the way he’s supposed to get out, the way he wanted to get out. Take it; for the love of everything that is right in this world take that chance and cut that loss that’s called a job. Everything lined up neatly; it’s all in place. The square pegs just need to be fitted into the square holes and the job is done.

He just needs to carry through with it – the way he always wanted it carried through with. The way it was always supposed to be carried through with.}[/color]

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

[EBR skips rope until John casually walks towards him with a bag of medicine balls.]

[/color]

John Lott:[/color] Hey, we’re working on reflexes.

EBR:[/COLOR] Cool, just let me finish up-

[John hurls a ball at EBR’s head, who only narrowly dodges it.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Dude, I’m not ready-

[Several more balls are thrown at EBR, hitting him in various parts of his body.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Dude! Dude! I’m tangled in the rope! Stop!

[Lott continues to throw medicine balls.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] Gotta be fast. Stuff doesn’t wait for you to be ready.

EBR:[/COLOR] Dude! This really hurts! Dude! Dude!

[After running out of balls, John stops.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] What the hell!? What the hell was that!?

John Lott:[/color] Just teaching you about-

EBR:[/COLOR] No! That was bull[expletive]! Bull[expletive]! You are not a good person! I was stuck in rope!

John Lott:[/color] I’m sorry, calm down.

EBR:[/COLOR] Calm down? Calm down? Man, we’re done.

John Lott:[/color] E, just -

EBR:[/COLOR] We’re done here!

[He furiously begins to storm off, yelling obscenities while picking up any balls in close proximity and whipping them across the room and at various pieces of equipment.][/color]

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Talking Head – EBR, strong enough for a man but made for a woman

EBR:[/COLOR] I sometimes get emotional when I work out. It comes in various degrees.

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

[Cue to EBR at the leg press.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] One more to go . . . nice. Good job.

[EBR gets up and hugs John Lott as he stares into the camera.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] . . . Yeah . . .

[The shot quickly changes to EBR lifting a weight filled barbell over his head. When he successfully does so he slams it on the ground.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Yeah! That’s how I roll! Juggernaut, bitch! I ain’t mustard I’m ketchup!

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

Talking Head – EBR, rubbing your ass in the moonshine and takin’ it back to ‘79

EBR:[/COLOR] It’s like that movie “Being John Malkovich”, except instead of a critically acclaimed actor it’s Calvin Lee.

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

Talking Head – John Lott, trainer

John Lott:[/color] He works hard, but the secret to being a great trainer is to find ways to make them work harder.

[/color]

John Lott:[/color] When you do that it reflects positively on you.

[The camera zooms past Lott’s head and to the outside window, where EBR and one of the women are making out.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] Off the record though? I thought he was gay.

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

Nigel Cohen:[/color] Are you impressed with the physical difference you’ve seen?

John Lott:[/color] I am. I thought it would be a lot harder on the first day. You and I both know how pathetic that was.

[Brief pause.][/color]

John Lott:[/color] It was actually very strange. How someone could be that inept when they’re not only in a profession that requires physical fitness, but look like they would be in good shape, is quite astonishing.

[The camera pans to the right, showing EBR.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] The kind thing would have been to ask me to leave if you were going to talk about me. Just for future notice.

[He walks away.][/color]

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Talking Head – Phillip Schneider (Obo), wrestler

Phillip Schneider:[/color] Will EBR win? I call him phantom. I think that speaks for itself.

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

Talking Head – Calvin Lee, wrestler

Calvin Lee:[/color] Will EBR win? Well . . . has anyone said he wouldn’t? I assume you just wouldn’t show that?

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

Talking Head – Sam Ratliff, childhood friend

Sam:[/color] Win? Win what? I don’t even know what he does for a living.

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

Talking Head – CBT (deceased), wrestler

CBT:[/COLOR] Will EBR win? That’s a complex question that has many different answers. I compare it to a rubix cube; you have many different squares, all which must be joined in unity . . .

Three minutes later

CBT:[/COLOR] His quest to the Championship is much like my quest to the Championship. International, I mean . . .

Two minutes later

CBT:[/COLOR] I think Superbrawl V has a chance to be a great show, yes.

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

Nigel Cohen:[/color] So Eric, do you think you’re ready?

EBR:[/COLOR] As much as I’m gonna be. You never really know. When it comes down to it you don’t know how you’ll feel, between emotions and all that. Anxiousness, nervousness, the fear of failure, the thrill of victory, stuff like that. I don’t think any of it matters though. You just kinda push them all to the side and do your thing, you know? Regardless of what you may be thinking it only comes down to two categories – winning and losing. I’ve done this before, the big matches I mean, and I’m saying all of this with the honest assumption that I excel in these situations. It’s what I do – I’m built for this.

[He chuckles.][/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] I don’t really care what my mindset’s gonna be. Doesn’t make a difference. I’m just gonna go in and tell myself to do what I’ve always told myself to do, through multiple Championships and a Hall of Fame bust. Just walk in and, to quote an old man, “just win, baby”.

[After this near iconic shot, EBR is shown running up a set of stairs as the opening chords of “Eye of the Tiger” play. As he reaches the top he throws his fist in the air as the picture stops and gradually fades black and white, the word “fin” appearing underneath.][/color][/quote]

[sonstuds]

{He stands leaning over the railway with the bottle of Heineken in his hand, looking down at the crowd of people. The bright but somehow relaxing lights leave EBR unfazed after the brief nap that was taken some thirty minutes after “The Revelation” (something that marvelous and spectacular needs a well dignified name). The initial fear was that his mind would once again flip flop after The Revelation was conceived, which was an understandable qualm. Fortunately (or unfortunately, depending on the take of things) as the hours past he became more enamored with the idea. It truly was the solution he wanted and needed. Being Champion would be fun he gathered, yet he had the same connotation regarding the Tag Team Titles, and it’s well documented how that turned out.

Different title, different situation, yeah – in theory. Somewhere in the past hours the fact he would probably never be happy in the WFWF surfaced and it was nothing EBR could combat or debate. What’s the point in sticking around? He had a goal when he returned and it only gets accomplished by not showing up, much less winning. Sure, he could win the Championship and put off his revenge tactic for the time being, but then he’s still stuck having to dwell in the WFWF. Yes, it’s much better to rid himself of the entire mess immediately. Do it in two days as opposed to say, two months. Besides, this is perfect. Biggest show of the year, biggest match of the year, his hometown nonetheless, and he bounces? He BOUNCES? The old adage “if you’re gonna do something, do it right” rings true.

He’ll catch a flight to Toronto tomorrow. After all, it’s so much more symbolic to not even be in the same state, much less the same country. Besides, they may try and find him. It’s unknown if they literally know where he lives, and even though he trusts that Calvin won’t squeal to them, sooner or later he gathers the paranoia will set in. Instead he’ll just stay low for a week or so, and as it hits the fan he’ll be watching from his hotel room. Hopefully they just announce that he never showed up, even better, make up an excuse that he’s absent because of “personal reasons”. Anything to help them save their dignity – but the point will still be made.

But somewhere in the confines of his head he has to be fair and toggle the opposite, and give some respect to the reliable and mature option of actually committing to his commitments. Maybe it’s all just stress; maybe everyone thinks of bouncing in their big moment. Hell, he’s done it before in the XWA. Similar situation, actually.

Biggest show of the year. Main event. Heavyweight Title. Chasing the belt that he never actually lost. Only two months off of winning the number one contendership. Going up against the biggest rival in his wrestling career. The perfect story. The perfect match, even. And . . . it never happens. It wasn’t the same per se (they were told, and a month in advance nonetheless), but it’s rather concerning.

Maybe everyone thinks of bouncing – but he actually does it.

Maybe in the end, this is redemption. Sure, he doesn’t lay awake at night thinking about the match that never happened, but this may be the chance to cancel it out. Perhaps revenge is irrelevant in this situation. In fact, maybe somehow, he was led to return to the WFWF in what he thought was revenge but was actually a chance to correct a mistake. He hears God works in mysterious ways. He also knows that sounds absurd. Why would his life be dictated around his job? Sure, he spreads enjoyment all across the land but it does sound a little insignificant. Wouldn’t God be better off just creating pieces of food for kids in third world countries?

How he’s to know it’s not all just a coincidence? He returned at Forever Unscarred. He may leave giving the WFWF an “FU”. Is that a coincidence?

And what about it being in Detroit? Let’s keep adding icing to that cake. Should that be more or less of a reason for him to leave? Sure, it’s a bigger slap in the face to the WFWF, but does it mean he should specifically win the title here? He could be like Jerome Bettis; go out as a Champion in his hometown and walk away victorious.

But that’s kind of lame. He’s not The Bus. It won’t be as sweet as he’s imagining it.

“Great job, E! You did it! You’re the Champion! Now walk off in the sunset! Vroom vroom!”

. . . Actually, that sounds pretty rad. But he wasn’t planning on retiring if he won so it’s a moot point, but a damn fine visual image.

And then of course, there’s the worst case scenario; show up but lose. Yuck. That’s awful. At least if he no shows he gets himself ridded of the WFWF and gets the last laugh, and if he shows up and wins he’s the celebrated (and official) Champion that he’s always been. But to show up and lose? Great, now you’re stuck in the WFWF without anything. And he can’t leave after losing. He’d look terrible. Multiple dimensions are a real pain the ass.

Metaphorically a tear rolls down the inside of his cheek (because even in the metaphorical sense EBR’s tears cannot be seen). This really doesn’t get easy until the day after Superbrawl when the decision is made. He does flip flop a lot – kudos to Sullee for calling that acute little observation.

EBR looks up and scans around the club, being here because of his pre-match celebration which was conjured up by his entourage several days in advance. Over the railing he specifically spots a woman in the far corner, which does not go unnoticed.}[/color]

Brad:[/color] I’d tap that.

EBR:[/COLOR] Thanks. That little tidbit really influences me.

Jay:[/color] She looks kind of fat. Well, chubby.

Brad:[/color] Who are you looking at?

Jay:[/color] Black top.

EBR:[/COLOR] Black hair?

{Jay nods.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] She’s not fat.

Brad:[/color] I guess we’re venturing into that Shallow Hal curse where we don’t see fat people.

EBR:[/COLOR] Let me ask something; if Hal was having sex and was on the bottom could he theoretically still be crushed?

Jay:[/color] Well yeah. The weight was still there, he just didn’t see it.

EBR:[/COLOR] That’d be an awful way to find out.

Brad:[/color] She’s not fat.

Jay:[/color] You don’t contribute much to our conversations.

EBR:[/COLOR] Someone needs to be the designated driver though.

Brad:[/color] Yet I’m drinking.

EBR:[/COLOR] Then what are you good for?

Brad:[/color] Hey, I’m on your side.

EBR:[/COLOR] About?

Brad:[/color] Her not being fat!

EBR:[/COLOR] You’re still on that? I think you like her more than I do.

Brad:[/color] Well if you’re not going to -

EBR:[/COLOR] Dibs.

Brad:[/color] Unbelievable.

EBR:[/COLOR] That’s how it works, son.

Brad:[/color] You don’t even know if she’ll say yes.

Jay:[/color] But he’s better looking than you, so based on that information . . .

Brad:[/color] Well that was GAY.

{EBR replies with a dull and uninvolved tone before turning to Jay.}[/color]

EBR:[/COLOR] Consider us humbled. So what do you mean “fat”?

Jay:[/color] Not “fat” fat, but gut fat.

Brad:[/color] Don’t see it – yo, Darrell.

{As if on cue Darrell walks over, his eyes pointed in the direction of a finger.}[/color]

Brad:[/color] Black top, black hair. Is she fat?

Darrell:[/color] Nah. Pregnant.

{All three pause, then squint while responding simultaneously.}[/color]

EBR, Brad, Jay:[/color] . . . Nooo . . .

Darrell:[/color] I have like a sixth sense for this kind of thing. Couple weeks pregnant.

EBR:[/COLOR] No way.

Jay:[/color] I did say she had a gut going on . . .

EBR:[/COLOR] If she was pregnant why would she be here?

Brad:[/color] Doesn’t know?

Jay:[/color] How do you not know if you’re pregnant? She’d be throwing up in the morning.

EBR:[/COLOR] Could be an alcoholic; then it’s just an automatic and daily thing.

Darrell:[/color] Nah, if she was an alcoholic the baby would be dead. Or just be intellectually- disabled when it’s born.

{The CBT jokes write themselves.}[/color]

Brad:[/color] Well, look at the plus side; you don’t have to worry about getting her pregnant.

EBR:[/COLOR] I’m probably shooting blanks anyways. I figure a condom would have broken by now.

Brad:[/color] That’s a serious problem. Might want to go a doctor or something . . .

EBR:[/COLOR] I’ll worry about that when the bridge gets crossed. Sure she’s pregnant?

Darrell:[/color] Looks pregnant to me.

Brad:[/color] How can someone look pregnant this soon in? When it’s only been a week or two you can’t tell between being pregnant and being fat.

Jay:[/color] Thank you.

Brad:[/color] And even then I can’t see why you’d care either way. It’s just a one time thing.

Darrell:[/color] Man, can’t get caught up with a preggo. That’s like an engagement.

EBR:[/COLOR] And I can’t do it with someone who’s pregnant when it’s not mine. That alone sounds like it’d be a curse or something. You’d have to be a real scum bag to get involved in that. I’m still gonna do it though.

Brad:[/color] I’m sure she’s not.

Jay:[/color] Gotta go with Darrell here. Something’s up.

Brad:[/color] Nah man, it’s just a few extra pounds.

EBR:[/COLOR] Which is fine. A girl with a few pounds in tight jeans is pretty hot.

Darrell:[/color] You’re a black man, E.

Brad:[/color] That’s kind of offensive.

Darrell:[/color] . . . I’m black.

EBR:[/COLOR] Yeah, so it’s cool. Anyways, I’m gonna take my chances.

Brad:[/color] What if she actually is pregnant?

Jay:[/color] Now you’re flip-flopping?

Brad:[/color] I’m talking hypothetically.

Jay:[/color] But you just said she’s carrying a few extra pounds?

Darrell:[/color] And using big words to try and sound smart?

Brad:[/color] Hypothetically? “Hypothetically” is suddenly a big word? I guess I just have a higher intelligence than all of you, seeing as how I graduated from such a high profile university.

EBR:[/COLOR] . . . You went to Hofstra.

Brad:[/color] Whatever . . . I could say so many things right now . . . screw you guys.

Jay:[/color] Say, what if she IS pregnant?

EBR:[/COLOR] That’s a good question.

Brad:[/color] . . . Unbelievable.

EBR:[/COLOR] Better drink a few beers before I leave just in case.

{A self-indulgent smirk spreads across his face. Who’s he kidding? This is the life style he’s supposed to be living, not frolicking around in something as trivial as the WFWF.

In the end, there are three outcomes. Two wins, one loss. Seeing as how he’d rather not lose then win, why bothering risking it? Take the one win which is guaranteed.

He makes a mental note – buy a plane ticket to Toronto.}[/color]

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

“Hey, it’s the biggest show of the year . . . Hopefully . . . would be able to find his own motivation.”

[sonstuds]

This was a pain in the ass to post and definitely read this in two separate seatings (but this is assuming it's gonna be read at all ).

[Swarm]

That was pretty awesome man.

Not much else to say because I can't really rag on anything.

Great work.

[2thumbedmessiah]

It's like that one song, "In the Air Tonight", when that guy could have saved that other guy from drownin', but didn't, and Phil saw it all, then at his show he found him.. That's kinda how this is, you could've saved me from drownin'.. *nods*

Behind the Music, EBR: Sex, Lies, and assisted murder via Rabies

Talking Head montage 1 turned out pretty well.

And Head montage 2 is pretty good as well, from a wrestling perspective

Two awkward scenes in a row.. I do like the interaction with the cameras though. sort of a third wall, but it's there for a reason.

With the Boy Meets World referance dropped, I officially declare that the "Tree of Joey Lawrence" must be added to EBR's move set. it's the rules.

you know, Jesse Owens at the Olympics is a poor analogy, when you used WFWF announcer Jesse Owens earlier in the roleplay. God our announcers suck.

EBR: God, show me the way because the Devil is trying to break me down. The only thing I pray is that my feet don’t fail me now. And I don’t think there is nothing I can do now to right my wrongs. I want to talk to God but I’m afraid because we haven’t spoken in so long.

JE-SUS WALKS

very realistic answering machine message. I hate talking to those things.

John Lott: It’s okay; it was just the first day. This type of thing happens all the time. - That's what she said
The whole training segments were good.. but would have been better with a chicken chase, cut to the talking head of John who's like "He really wanted to do that.. Catch more flies with honey than you do with.. uhh.. chickens?"

Overall, really good package. Tells the story and builds drama. And it had a GYM. That makes every roleplay better.

[Calvin]

the back and forth with the present and the documentary was a good way into EBR's exterior and interior personality.

good stuff

[2thumbedmessiah]

I like how one of the big storylines of SB is how E "left", then he posts a RP and no one notices or cares, bar the same 3 people that read anyways. Owned

[DGX]

I'm a big fan of E's RPs as I find them to be random yet they all tie together. I think someone said he was like the Seinfeld of the WFWF however I think where E eclipses that is no matter how random his segments seem to be, there is always a point behind them and at the end I find he brings it all back and gets the message across.

An EBR RP is like a journey, wrought with uncertainty, minor confusion, and humor but where it truly shines is by the end if it, you know where you are and how you got there.

Almost every decision E makes could be a critical one. It all comes full circle.