Post by King Richius on Sept 19, 2016 16:17:58 GMT -5
The Gate RP - Furious Frank
featuring Frank Lynn
I’m the one teaching lessons from now on.
Sao Paulo, Brazil : July 13, 2016 : the night of Exodus
Juan Carlos de Silva is sitting at his desk inside his expensive and expansive mansion. He is worried. He doesn’t like to worry. In his business worrying means something bad is going to happen. He likes bad things happening to him even less than he likes to worry. It is making it damn near impossible for him to enjoy the half naked women on the telenovela he is trying to watch.
It had been years since he had asked his tech guy to put the watch dog programs in place. He had all but forgotten about them until the e-mail alert appeared in his inbox: someone was looking where they shouldn’t. He called his tech guy and told him to start digging. He needed to know who was sticking their nose into his business a.s.a.p.
His tech guy was very good. The tech guy needed just one hour to identify who it was and send a brief bio. Juan Carlos called the Mechanic. The Mechanic could take the job. Juan Carlos ordered his most trusted courier to deliver the file to the Mechanic along with one simple order: Remove target immediately, all collateral damage acceptable. He was confident that Rebecca O’Brien would be dead within 48 hours. That was 44 hours ago.
His phone rings. It is the Mechanic. He mutes the telenovela and answers the phone.
You’re sure?
Collateral damage?
You’ll get your payment. $50K for the target, $20K more for the others. It will be transferred to your account tomorrow morning. What about the boyfriend?
Where is he?
He clicks his remote changing the channel on his TV to the WFWF Exodus TV show. He sees four men beating the hell out of each other in front of a rabid crowd. He is reminded of Christians being fed to the lions in ancient Rome to entertain the masses.
Which one is he?
He checks the TV again. It looks like this Drakz fellow is going to take care of the boyfriend free of charge. If not, it doesn’t matter.
No. The O’Brien woman was the threat, not the boyfriend. As long as he minds his own business, he gets to live. The job’s done.
Juan Carlos ends the call. He checks the five photos the mechanic had sent. The first is the target: Rebecca O’Brien. She would have been a very attractive woman if not for the bullet hole in her head. Such a waste. He skims the other four pictures. Nothing jumps out at him until he sees the older blonde woman, the boyfriends’ mother. There is something familiar about her but he can’t figure out what. He forwards the photo to his assistant with a brief note: Who is she?
———
Boston, MA : Sept. 14, 2016 : the day after Horizon
Frank read back what he had typed at least a half dozen times trying to decide whether to hit send or delete. He felt exactly the same as he did in those last seconds before jumping out of a plane: an adrenaline rush accompanied by a little fear over what could go wrong. Had he exaggerated too much in trying to get his point across? Was he going to build or burn a bridge? He wasn’t sure but he knew he had to do something to get his career out of the rut it was stuck in.
An old proverb came to mind: It is better to regret something you have done than something you haven’t. He hit send.
featuring Frank Lynn
I’m the one teaching lessons from now on.
Sao Paulo, Brazil : July 13, 2016 : the night of Exodus
Juan Carlos de Silva is sitting at his desk inside his expensive and expansive mansion. He is worried. He doesn’t like to worry. In his business worrying means something bad is going to happen. He likes bad things happening to him even less than he likes to worry. It is making it damn near impossible for him to enjoy the half naked women on the telenovela he is trying to watch.
It had been years since he had asked his tech guy to put the watch dog programs in place. He had all but forgotten about them until the e-mail alert appeared in his inbox: someone was looking where they shouldn’t. He called his tech guy and told him to start digging. He needed to know who was sticking their nose into his business a.s.a.p.
His tech guy was very good. The tech guy needed just one hour to identify who it was and send a brief bio. Juan Carlos called the Mechanic. The Mechanic could take the job. Juan Carlos ordered his most trusted courier to deliver the file to the Mechanic along with one simple order: Remove target immediately, all collateral damage acceptable. He was confident that Rebecca O’Brien would be dead within 48 hours. That was 44 hours ago.
His phone rings. It is the Mechanic. He mutes the telenovela and answers the phone.
You’re sure?
Collateral damage?
You’ll get your payment. $50K for the target, $20K more for the others. It will be transferred to your account tomorrow morning. What about the boyfriend?
Where is he?
He clicks his remote changing the channel on his TV to the WFWF Exodus TV show. He sees four men beating the hell out of each other in front of a rabid crowd. He is reminded of Christians being fed to the lions in ancient Rome to entertain the masses.
Which one is he?
He checks the TV again. It looks like this Drakz fellow is going to take care of the boyfriend free of charge. If not, it doesn’t matter.
No. The O’Brien woman was the threat, not the boyfriend. As long as he minds his own business, he gets to live. The job’s done.
Juan Carlos ends the call. He checks the five photos the mechanic had sent. The first is the target: Rebecca O’Brien. She would have been a very attractive woman if not for the bullet hole in her head. Such a waste. He skims the other four pictures. Nothing jumps out at him until he sees the older blonde woman, the boyfriends’ mother. There is something familiar about her but he can’t figure out what. He forwards the photo to his assistant with a brief note: Who is she?
———
Boston, MA : Sept. 14, 2016 : the day after Horizon
Frank read back what he had typed at least a half dozen times trying to decide whether to hit send or delete. He felt exactly the same as he did in those last seconds before jumping out of a plane: an adrenaline rush accompanied by a little fear over what could go wrong. Had he exaggerated too much in trying to get his point across? Was he going to build or burn a bridge? He wasn’t sure but he knew he had to do something to get his career out of the rut it was stuck in.
An old proverb came to mind: It is better to regret something you have done than something you haven’t. He hit send.
Date: 9/14/16
To: Lila.Sleater@WFWF.COM
CC: Trace.Demon@WFWF.COM
From: FearlessFLynn@unreal.com
Subject: Quality of Competition
Hello Ms. Sleater,
I came to the WFWF to make a name for myself, to show that I am every bit as good as any wrestler on the roster. Considering that you recruited me from Legacy Pro Wrestling I have to assume it is in your best interest to see that I succeed because my failure would also be your failure. Trace Demon does not strike me as a man who tolerates failure.
Since my arrival at Black Hole Sun I have been one of your most successful wrestlers, compiling a record of 4-1 and qualifying for the Golden Opportunity Championship match at SuperBrawl. At first glance that might seem like a good start to a successful career in the WFWF but a closer look shows that it is not.
Of my four wins, two were as part of the Thunderbirds - a tag team that was your idea to create a quality challenger for the tag champions - yet I had to engineer a grand spectacle to get the attention of and a match with Joshua Dean and Drakz. Yes, we lost that match but it was much closer than anyone predicted and the Thunderbirds could very well be the WFWF Tag Team champions if not for you changing it to a no DQ/no Countout match halfway through.
If you look at just the four matches you have booked for me either as a singles or tag team competitor, the quality of competition has been lacking. Has any opponent you have booked me against ever won a match? I do not define success as being your litmus test for every new wrestler to see if they really belong in the WFWF.
This is going to change. The Golden Opportunity match at SuperBrawl could be a step in the right direction but we both know that when six men are involved in one match, the best wrestler may not come out on top. It is too chaotic an environment to be an accurate test of skill and desire.
After SuperBrawl, regardless of the Golden Opportunity Championship match outcome, I want better opponents. I want higher profile matches. I have shown that I can win. Even when I lose it is still a main event worthy match.
As I said before, I think it is in both of our best interests that I succeed here in the WFWF. I could be a rookie of the year, a champion, the kind of wrestler you can build the next generation of the WFWF around. What happens when the current top stars retire either due to age or accumulated injuries or loss of interest? Do you really think Dr. Mantis Toboggan vs Danté “Stickboy” Brooks is going to main event a SuperBrawl? I doubt it. Lucas Crowe vs Frank Lynn is a match that could one day main event SuperBrawl. I just need the opportunity to show that I am on that level.
You can help me by choice or by force. You can choose to get me those better matches I deserve and I can continue to play by your rules. Or I can force your hand by following the example set by the successful WFWF stars who ignore the rules and take what they want. Often, they actually get rewarded for breaking rules, as in the case of David Brennan who found himself in a tag title match despite not being part of a team nor showing any interest in being a tag team champion.
Fines, suspension, and even firing don’t scare me anymore. I have money now, more than I know what to do with. I am part owner of Legacy Pro Wrestling so I will always have a spot there if I want it. You need me more than I need you. I hope we can work together but I don’t consider it a necessity.
The ball is in your court.
Sincerely,
Frank Lynn
To: Lila.Sleater@WFWF.COM
CC: Trace.Demon@WFWF.COM
From: FearlessFLynn@unreal.com
Subject: Quality of Competition
Hello Ms. Sleater,
I came to the WFWF to make a name for myself, to show that I am every bit as good as any wrestler on the roster. Considering that you recruited me from Legacy Pro Wrestling I have to assume it is in your best interest to see that I succeed because my failure would also be your failure. Trace Demon does not strike me as a man who tolerates failure.
Since my arrival at Black Hole Sun I have been one of your most successful wrestlers, compiling a record of 4-1 and qualifying for the Golden Opportunity Championship match at SuperBrawl. At first glance that might seem like a good start to a successful career in the WFWF but a closer look shows that it is not.
Of my four wins, two were as part of the Thunderbirds - a tag team that was your idea to create a quality challenger for the tag champions - yet I had to engineer a grand spectacle to get the attention of and a match with Joshua Dean and Drakz. Yes, we lost that match but it was much closer than anyone predicted and the Thunderbirds could very well be the WFWF Tag Team champions if not for you changing it to a no DQ/no Countout match halfway through.
If you look at just the four matches you have booked for me either as a singles or tag team competitor, the quality of competition has been lacking. Has any opponent you have booked me against ever won a match? I do not define success as being your litmus test for every new wrestler to see if they really belong in the WFWF.
This is going to change. The Golden Opportunity match at SuperBrawl could be a step in the right direction but we both know that when six men are involved in one match, the best wrestler may not come out on top. It is too chaotic an environment to be an accurate test of skill and desire.
After SuperBrawl, regardless of the Golden Opportunity Championship match outcome, I want better opponents. I want higher profile matches. I have shown that I can win. Even when I lose it is still a main event worthy match.
As I said before, I think it is in both of our best interests that I succeed here in the WFWF. I could be a rookie of the year, a champion, the kind of wrestler you can build the next generation of the WFWF around. What happens when the current top stars retire either due to age or accumulated injuries or loss of interest? Do you really think Dr. Mantis Toboggan vs Danté “Stickboy” Brooks is going to main event a SuperBrawl? I doubt it. Lucas Crowe vs Frank Lynn is a match that could one day main event SuperBrawl. I just need the opportunity to show that I am on that level.
You can help me by choice or by force. You can choose to get me those better matches I deserve and I can continue to play by your rules. Or I can force your hand by following the example set by the successful WFWF stars who ignore the rules and take what they want. Often, they actually get rewarded for breaking rules, as in the case of David Brennan who found himself in a tag title match despite not being part of a team nor showing any interest in being a tag team champion.
Fines, suspension, and even firing don’t scare me anymore. I have money now, more than I know what to do with. I am part owner of Legacy Pro Wrestling so I will always have a spot there if I want it. You need me more than I need you. I hope we can work together but I don’t consider it a necessity.
The ball is in your court.
Sincerely,
Frank Lynn
———
Hartford, CT : Sept. 20, 2016 : LPW Fall Brawl
Intermission at Legacy Pro Wrestling Fall Brawl ’16. Abraham Templeton had asked his silent partner Frank Lynn for a favor to help boost attendance. Frank used what little pull he had in the WFWF locker room to get recently returned superstar Joe Bishop to come to the LPW show for autographs and photo ops with the fans. Abraham was pleasantly surprised to see a sell out crowd in the 1000 seat arena. Fall Brawl ’16 would be the biggest and most profitable LPW show in the company’s history. He wasn’t quite so pleased to see Frank continue his descent into a permanent state of anger over the murder of his friends.
Joe Bishop’s line is much longer than Frank’s which really bothers him. After all, Frank was a former LPW wrestler who should have lots of supporters in the crowd but nobody knew that was him under the El Tigre Blanco mask so here he sat playing second fiddle to a bigger WFWF star yet again. As far as Frank was concerned, that was just another example of how life was sh*tting on him the past few months.
It didn’t help that in the WFWF his popularity has been steadily declining since the loss at Exodus, the connection to the multiple murders that same night, and his ongoing problems with LeeRoy Jenkins. He was already well into ‘tweener territory. The boos would soon drown out the cheers making him “the bad guy”.
Some fans avoid his table because of his P.R. problems but most just want autographs from Joe Bishop more. Frank’s anger is welling up in the form of jealousy and he is taking it out on the fans by rushing to sign whatever is thrust in front of him with a brusque Hi, how ya doin’, next while ignoring any attempts to strike up a quick conversation.
As Frank’s short line moves, a man approaches him with his 10 year old son at his side.
Hello Mr. Lynn
Hello to you too…
a momentary pause as he recognizes the man as one of the Road Hogz bikers…
Razor?
Seeing Razor made Frank think of the fight at the Rusty Nail which made Frank think of his friends which made Frank want to smash Razor’s face in. He probably would have if not for the innocent 10 year old boy who looked at him with admiration, respect, and a custom action figure he had made of “Fearless” Frank Lynn out of what looked like a Joshua Dean figure and box. Ha, take that Franchise! The boy was one fan Frank hadn’t lost yet.
No colors today. It’s just Randy. Earning dad points by bringing my son to meet his favorite wrestler.
Second favorite. El Tigre Blanco is the best. I wish he was here.
Frank groaned internally. Upstaged by his own alter ego. Again, he wanted to smash someone’s face in but he didn’t want to disappoint the smiling boy standing in front of him basking in the glow of one of the greatest moments of his young life.
I think I saw El Tigre Blanco backstage. If you come back after the show maybe I can get him to come out.
That would be awesome!
Frank signs the custom figure, an 8x10 photo, and poses for several pictures with the boy. At least one fan wouldn’t think badly of Frank at the end of the day.
The lines for both wrestlers keep moving, Frank’s line slowing down a little as he makes some effort to be nice to each fan. He just isn’t very good at it because he keeps wanting to hit people in their faces. The internet forums are sure to fill up with posts about him being a dick at the LPW show.
One of the LPW wrestlers comes out, an eighteen year old kid fresh out of high school who wrestles under the name Brick Harrison. Brick thinks it could help his career if he gets some trash talk in with one of the WFWF wrestlers in front of the LPW fans. He makes the mistake of picking Frank Lynn. He harasses Frank about his recent losses both in the ring and out of it.
Hey everybody, look! It’s Fearless Frank Lynn… or should that be Epic Failure Frank Lynn? Got himself beat down and knocked out cold by Drakz. I’ve heard about one tag team partner carrying another but Frank here took that literally! It’s really too bad you were such a heavy load that Mike Jette blew out his knee carrying you! Then Frank got himself knocked out and beat down by LeeRoy Jenkins and Danté Brooks. He’s gonna get beat down yet again at SuperBrawl. I bet he couldn’t last two minutes with a real man like Brick Harrison! How about it Epic Failure Frank? Wanna try me out? I’m big! I’m bad! I’m the Brick! I’ll beat your ass and send you to join your dead friends!
Frank can’t control himself, the urge to hit someone in their face finally boiling over and every bit of that rage is directed at Brick. He jumps over the table nearly knocking over several fans as he charges towards Brick Harrison. Frank hits a double leg takedown, drops some heavy elbows to Brick’s head, and goes to work on his arm. Brick may have enthusiasm on his side, but he has very little actual fight experience so Frank has a very easy time locking on a kimura.
Many witnesses would make claims on Twitter that they could hear the snapping of the bones in Brick’s arm as Frank mercilessly twisted on it. The truth is Frank did wrench Brick’s arm hard enough to dislocate his shoulder but no bones were broken. Either way, Brick’s screams were quite loud and drew a large crowd of fans with phones at the ready to record and post the incident all over the internet.
Joe Bishop abandons his table and rushes over followed close behind by Abraham Templeton. They pull Frank off of Brick and drag him back to the locker room leaving Brick to be taken to a separate backstage area where the doctor on call tended to his shoulder.
Abraham restrains Frank while Joe Bishop composes himself before confronting him.
What the hell Frank? Don't you think professional wrestling has a bad enough reputation already? Beating up a f*cking kid isn't going to do any of us any favours.
Did you hear the crap he was saying? He deserved it.
Frank is still angry but settles down enough that Abraham loosens his grip on him. Frank paces like a caged animal while Joe Bishop tries to talk some sense into him.
It doesn't matter whether he deserved it or not. He's an attention seeking kid, you're a WFWF wrestler. If you want to make any sort of impression here you've really got to grow a thicker skin.
Do I? How thick would your skin be if someone talked trash about five of your dead friends? Should I go pick your five closest friends and blow their heads off so you can find out for yourself?
Don’t be an idiot. The world is full of jerks and they're drawn to us like bees to honey. Breaking their arms is not how you deal with them.
Broken arm? I should have broken his neck! What an assh*le.
Frank stops pacing and starts to make animated gestures showing just how he would snap Brick’s neck. Abraham goes to restrain him again but Joe waves him off. Let Frank assault all the thin air he wants to if it helps him blow off steam.
Listen, I know you are going through some hard times. But you need to control yourself. Because right now, you're advertising your vulnerability to everybody in that locker room and if you keep it up they'll rip you to shreds. Channel that anger, use it to become a better wrestler, don't let it consume you.
Whatever doesn’t kill me makes me stronger, eh? What a load of bullsh*t. I have every right to be pissed off. Don’t you tell me how I should act.
Frank is right in Joe Bishop’s face but Joe holds his ground. He grabs Frank by his shoulders forcing him to look Joe right in the eyes. Joe continues to show incredible restraint in not physically beating some sense into Frank.
I’m trying to help. You were already heading down the wrong path with the chairs, tables, kendo sticks. Now you’re going even further because you can't control yourself. Go into your matches with a calm, clear head - use your skills, your MMA background, and beat your opponents fair and square. Don't make a mockery of this sport.
Frank breaks free of Joe’s grip and starts pacing again, arms flapping in the air wildly.
I didn’t realize I needed a life coach. Thank you so much for showing me the error of my WINNING ways.
You’ve been charging around like a bull in a china shop and once or twice you got lucky. You won’t just ‘get lucky' against McLargehuge. You're very capable of beating him but you need a good strategy and you need to have a calm head to execute it. I'm not seeing much evidence of either so far.
Your advice is duly noted, as unnecessary as it is. I can handle Tiny McPencildick just fine.
Angry and overconfident. That's a really bad combination. You go into SuperBrawl with this attitude and you'll lose. Blow your second shot at becoming a WFWF Champion because you can't keep your head and I guarantee it'll be a long time before you get a third chance.
That gets Frank’s attention. He may be angry but he isn’t stupid. No way does he want to lose the title match. The thought of both losing and then not getting another chance has a sobering effect on him. At least sobering enough that he stops pacing and flapping his arms like a flightless bird. Abraham is relieved because he was getting dizzy trying to keep up with Frank in case he had to restrain him again.
McLargehuge, Whitner, whoever I have to face in the ring is in for a sh*tstorm of pain. I won’t have to worry about a third chance because I am winning the GO title at Superbrawl.
You're not going to win it without taking a long look in the mirror. You could be a really strong addition to the WFWF if you stop acting like a petulant child and start taking this sport seriously. Think about what I'm saying, I don't want to teach you a lesson the hard way.
I’m the one teaching lessons from now on. Get out of my way or get your face smashed. Fearless Frank Lynn has been replaced by Furious Frank Lynn. You don’t have to worry about pissing Furious Frank off… he is always pissed off.
Don’t push me, Frank. I will push back.
Joe Bishop shrugs his shoulders, shakes his head, and walks away, taking a moment to glance back and give Frank one last warning glare before exiting the locker room. Maybe after he calms down some of what Bishop said will sink in. If not… there are other ways to make a point and Joe Bishop is well versed in most of them.
Abraham is stuck in the middle wanting to support his partner yet knowing how close Frank is to f*cking up everything for both of them. He had remained quiet hoping Joe Bishop would have better success talking sense to Frank than Abe had just a few weeks ago. It didn’t look like Joe had made a difference. Frank continues to stare at the door Joe Bishop exited through and carries on with his half of the conversation.
Don’t you worry Joe Bishop. I am winning the GO title at SuperBrawl. When I do, maybe I’ll come after you before you can challenge me for it.
You have more immediate worries. I’ll try to smooth things over with Brick but it could go badly. He could press charges.
Let him try. If he does, I may take him up on a match in the LPW ring and teach him another lesson.
Damnit Frank, this is serious! I think I can convince Brick to keep the police out of this but what about next time? You need to get your head straight before it is too late.
Abraham shrugs his shoulders and walks away to check on Brick Harrison, mirroring Joe Bishop’s exit almost move for move complete with a parting glare at Frank before exiting the room.
Frank knew that Abraham rarely yelled or cursed, so for him to do both at the same time had an immediate effect on him. He could ignore Joe Bishop’s words because Bishop was a crusader trying to remold the business into his image, but ignoring a business partner and respected friend like Abraham was not so easy. Now he is angry at himself for disappointing Abe and yet again wants to smash someone’s face. It was definitely time to end this disaster of a night.
Frank makes a quick search of his bag and finds his old El Tigre Blanco mask which he puts on. He changes into a different shirt and switches his trademark leather jacket for a generic hoodie to complete the transformation. He can use his newfound anonymity to exit the arena with no further incident and maybe, just maybe make one young fan happy on the way out.
———
A few hours later, Frank steps into his apartment. Doctor Claw saunters over to him and does that cat thing where he walks a figure eight between your legs which no cat owner can verify as either a show of affection or an attempt to trip you as a reminder of who is really in charge.
Frank is not in the mood and angrily lashes out, his foot catching Doctor Claw between his front and back legs, lifting him into the air and sending him flying across the room. The orange tabby shows all the grace expected of a cat and manages to land on his feet, then runs under the nearest piece of furniture.
Frank sees Doctor Claw cowering in fear under a bookcase. Then he sees his reflection in the glass coffee table, twisted by the imperfect glass, multiple light sources, and the odd angle into a warped funhouse mirror version of Frank Lynn. The reflection mocks him. Something inside him snaps, but instead of manifesting as rage it instead takes the form of despair. What kind of twisted monster is he becoming if he is randomly attacking an innocent and defenseless cat?
He takes a few steps towards Doctor Claw, but the cat tries to shrink back even further and hide. Frank sits on the floor with his head between his knees and his hands wrapped behind his head, rocking back and forth while he repeats the same phrase over and over.
What is wrong with me?
After ten minutes or so, Doctor Claw cautiously approaches Frank. The cat nudges Frank’s leg with his head. Frank looks up at the cat and cracks a little smile. Doctor Claw responds with a timid meow, still testing the waters and ready to bolt should another giant foot come in his direction.
Yeah Doc. You are right. Abraham is right. Joe Bishop is right. I can’t keep doing this. The guy in the car, the camera man, Brooks, Jenkins, Harrison, who knows what other incidents I am forgetting. I don’t want to end up in jail. I need help.
Doctor Claw continues to rub against Frank’s legs. It could be interpreted as the cat consoling Frank or it could be that the cat is hungry. Frank carefully picks up Doctor Claw, gently giving him a skritch behind the ears as he carries him to the kitchen. He gives the cat some food and water.
Thanks Doc. That’s twice you saved me.
Somewhere in the back of his head, Frank could hear the soothing voice of Becky saying You’re welcome.
———
San Diego, CA : The Gate
It’s promo time again so Frank is in the studio a few days before The Gate to record his thoughts going into his match. As luck (bad luck in the case of the camera man) would have it, he is working with the same camera man as the past two shows so they have the routine down pat.
Ready whenever you are Frank.
Thanks not-Ricky.
Gee, thanks. You remembered I’m not Ricky. Do you want to know my name?
Not yet. Let’s get on with it not-Ricky. I have to convince a mental midget of a giant that he has no chance against me.
And on that note not-Ricky starts recording.
Get your motors running boys, we are on the road to SuperBrawl! Six men on a collision course with each other to crown a champion!
No, I’m not talking about the clusterf*ck main event for Drakz’ World Heavyweight Championship where all anyone had to do to get in the match was come to the ring and cry about how it was their turn to lose to Drakz. Maybe I should have tried that after Mike Jette destroyed his knee. Perhaps the main event could have been seven men instead of six. Whatever. My time will come and when it does Drakz or whoever is holding the World Heavyweight Championship better be ready for the Lynn-sanity.
I was actually referring to the other six man clusterf*ck where history is guaranteed to be made: the Golden Opportunity Championship match! That is the match where I will become the first ever GOC. I beat that idiot LeeRoy Jenkins one-two-three at Horizon for the right to be in the GOC match. Two others are already in the match: Ante Whitner and Big McLargehuge. Three more will be determined at The Gate. I will be watching very closely to see whose asses I will be kicking at SuperBrawl. Hell, it looks like my good buddy LeeRoy is getting a second chance to qualify. Good luck LeeRoy! I’d love to see you at SuperBrawl so I can finally get my revenge while I am making history at the biggest show of the year.
The Gate is the last stop before the big show, the last chance to fine tune my wrestling and build some momentum. To be honest, even though I have been winning my matches they haven’t been the most impressive victories. Two shows ago it was a DQ win over Jenkins & Brooks after getting clocked by a chair and beat down until the ref had to step in. Yay me!
Last show it was a “cheap” win over Jenkins by small package. I don’t consider it a “cheap” win no matter what others may say but I do admit it was less than satisfying since Jenkins walked out instead of being stretchered straight to an ambulance. I warned Jenkins before the match to not make the mistake of turning his back on an opponent. He did it anyway and I took advantage. That is not cheap, that is smart. I may be slightly psycho but I do have my priorities and becoming the first GOC is currently at the top of my list. I will have to wait for another day to shove a steel chair up his hillbilly ass.
The point I’m trying to make is that I want to go into SuperBrawl hitting on all cylinders. The only way for me to do that is to get a convincing win at The Gate. Standing in my way is damn near 7 feet and over 300 pounds of stupidity named Big McLargehuge.
Frank disappears off camera for a few seconds and then returns with a life-size cardboard Big McLargehuge which towers over him. Frank emphasizes the point by placing his hand on top of his head, then raising it up to the top of Big’s head while looking up and whistling. He shrugs and turns back to the camera.
See, Big is… well… big. But…
Frank reaches behind Big’s head and pulls out a walnut which he holds up for the camera.
He has a brain the size of a walnut. Sorry, that may not be true. I didn’t do a catscan to verify the size of his brain so it is possible that his brain is actually the size of a pea. Regardless, he is a giant of a man with a larger shoe size than IQ. I would bet that when he was just a little Big he spent a lot of time on the short bus except that he wouldn’t fit in the damn thing so he was probably forced to run alongside the bus while the other kids pointed out the windows and laughed at him.
I apologize. It’s not right to lump Big in with the intellectually challenged. It is insulting to them because they are much smarter than Big.
The one positive about Big is that he has so far proved size really does matter which is why he is undefeated. Whether he says he is 2-0, 316-0, or 469-0, the fact is that Big hasn’t lost yet. The late, not-so-great Trevor Wolf and Devin Alexander aren’t exactly the highest level of competition in the WFWF but Big did beat them. That is why he is one of the six men who will fight for the GOC. And it is why he and I are going to face off at The Gate. Somethings got to give. Will it be Big? Or will it be me?
Frank stands beside the cardboard Big and pretends to whisper into Big’s ear.
Spoiler: It won’t be me.
Frank turns back to the camera and continues his rant.
It is actually a little refreshing to step in the ring with someone who isn’t a total loser like LeeRoy Jenkins or Mantis Toboggan. One day they may win a match but I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting for it to happen. Big Mac will be a step up from my usual opponents. Not much of a step up but hey… baby steps. I can’t wait to hand him his first loss and plant a seed of doubt in his walnut sized brain heading into the GOC match.
Some people might call this match David vs Goliath. I agree, except that I’m Goliath and Big is David. That’s because I am much smarter than Big and know exactly how to use leverage to knock his big ass down to the mat. Size matters and I will use his size against him. The bigger they are, the harder they fall and all that crap. Once Big is on the mat, it will be easy for me to hurt him so bad he cries for his momma… if he has one. I heard a rumor that he was actually thawed out of a block of ice some archaeologists found in the Himalayas and even now they are frantically searching for their missing “missing link”.
Big McLargehuge, I look forward to standing toe-to-toe, eye-to-chin with you at The Gate. I will beat you convincingly, no disqualifications or cheap roll-up pins, and head into the GOC match with momentum on my side. Then I will beat you again along with four others at SuperBrawl when I win the Golden Opportunity Championship!
Frank kicks the legs out from under the cardboard Big McLargehuge and it falls to the floor. Then Frank drops the walnut on to Big’s face and stomps on it, grinding it into powder with the heel of his hiking boot.
I am destined for bigger things than you, Big. I will be the FIRST EVER GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY CHAMPION. For once in your life, do the smart thing. Get the f*ck out of my way!
———
Hartford, CT : Sept. 20, 2016 : LPW Fall Brawl
Intermission at Legacy Pro Wrestling Fall Brawl ’16. Abraham Templeton had asked his silent partner Frank Lynn for a favor to help boost attendance. Frank used what little pull he had in the WFWF locker room to get recently returned superstar Joe Bishop to come to the LPW show for autographs and photo ops with the fans. Abraham was pleasantly surprised to see a sell out crowd in the 1000 seat arena. Fall Brawl ’16 would be the biggest and most profitable LPW show in the company’s history. He wasn’t quite so pleased to see Frank continue his descent into a permanent state of anger over the murder of his friends.
Joe Bishop’s line is much longer than Frank’s which really bothers him. After all, Frank was a former LPW wrestler who should have lots of supporters in the crowd but nobody knew that was him under the El Tigre Blanco mask so here he sat playing second fiddle to a bigger WFWF star yet again. As far as Frank was concerned, that was just another example of how life was sh*tting on him the past few months.
It didn’t help that in the WFWF his popularity has been steadily declining since the loss at Exodus, the connection to the multiple murders that same night, and his ongoing problems with LeeRoy Jenkins. He was already well into ‘tweener territory. The boos would soon drown out the cheers making him “the bad guy”.
Some fans avoid his table because of his P.R. problems but most just want autographs from Joe Bishop more. Frank’s anger is welling up in the form of jealousy and he is taking it out on the fans by rushing to sign whatever is thrust in front of him with a brusque Hi, how ya doin’, next while ignoring any attempts to strike up a quick conversation.
As Frank’s short line moves, a man approaches him with his 10 year old son at his side.
Hello Mr. Lynn
Hello to you too…
a momentary pause as he recognizes the man as one of the Road Hogz bikers…
Razor?
Seeing Razor made Frank think of the fight at the Rusty Nail which made Frank think of his friends which made Frank want to smash Razor’s face in. He probably would have if not for the innocent 10 year old boy who looked at him with admiration, respect, and a custom action figure he had made of “Fearless” Frank Lynn out of what looked like a Joshua Dean figure and box. Ha, take that Franchise! The boy was one fan Frank hadn’t lost yet.
No colors today. It’s just Randy. Earning dad points by bringing my son to meet his favorite wrestler.
Second favorite. El Tigre Blanco is the best. I wish he was here.
Frank groaned internally. Upstaged by his own alter ego. Again, he wanted to smash someone’s face in but he didn’t want to disappoint the smiling boy standing in front of him basking in the glow of one of the greatest moments of his young life.
I think I saw El Tigre Blanco backstage. If you come back after the show maybe I can get him to come out.
That would be awesome!
Frank signs the custom figure, an 8x10 photo, and poses for several pictures with the boy. At least one fan wouldn’t think badly of Frank at the end of the day.
The lines for both wrestlers keep moving, Frank’s line slowing down a little as he makes some effort to be nice to each fan. He just isn’t very good at it because he keeps wanting to hit people in their faces. The internet forums are sure to fill up with posts about him being a dick at the LPW show.
One of the LPW wrestlers comes out, an eighteen year old kid fresh out of high school who wrestles under the name Brick Harrison. Brick thinks it could help his career if he gets some trash talk in with one of the WFWF wrestlers in front of the LPW fans. He makes the mistake of picking Frank Lynn. He harasses Frank about his recent losses both in the ring and out of it.
Hey everybody, look! It’s Fearless Frank Lynn… or should that be Epic Failure Frank Lynn? Got himself beat down and knocked out cold by Drakz. I’ve heard about one tag team partner carrying another but Frank here took that literally! It’s really too bad you were such a heavy load that Mike Jette blew out his knee carrying you! Then Frank got himself knocked out and beat down by LeeRoy Jenkins and Danté Brooks. He’s gonna get beat down yet again at SuperBrawl. I bet he couldn’t last two minutes with a real man like Brick Harrison! How about it Epic Failure Frank? Wanna try me out? I’m big! I’m bad! I’m the Brick! I’ll beat your ass and send you to join your dead friends!
Frank can’t control himself, the urge to hit someone in their face finally boiling over and every bit of that rage is directed at Brick. He jumps over the table nearly knocking over several fans as he charges towards Brick Harrison. Frank hits a double leg takedown, drops some heavy elbows to Brick’s head, and goes to work on his arm. Brick may have enthusiasm on his side, but he has very little actual fight experience so Frank has a very easy time locking on a kimura.
Many witnesses would make claims on Twitter that they could hear the snapping of the bones in Brick’s arm as Frank mercilessly twisted on it. The truth is Frank did wrench Brick’s arm hard enough to dislocate his shoulder but no bones were broken. Either way, Brick’s screams were quite loud and drew a large crowd of fans with phones at the ready to record and post the incident all over the internet.
Joe Bishop abandons his table and rushes over followed close behind by Abraham Templeton. They pull Frank off of Brick and drag him back to the locker room leaving Brick to be taken to a separate backstage area where the doctor on call tended to his shoulder.
Abraham restrains Frank while Joe Bishop composes himself before confronting him.
What the hell Frank? Don't you think professional wrestling has a bad enough reputation already? Beating up a f*cking kid isn't going to do any of us any favours.
Did you hear the crap he was saying? He deserved it.
Frank is still angry but settles down enough that Abraham loosens his grip on him. Frank paces like a caged animal while Joe Bishop tries to talk some sense into him.
It doesn't matter whether he deserved it or not. He's an attention seeking kid, you're a WFWF wrestler. If you want to make any sort of impression here you've really got to grow a thicker skin.
Do I? How thick would your skin be if someone talked trash about five of your dead friends? Should I go pick your five closest friends and blow their heads off so you can find out for yourself?
Don’t be an idiot. The world is full of jerks and they're drawn to us like bees to honey. Breaking their arms is not how you deal with them.
Broken arm? I should have broken his neck! What an assh*le.
Frank stops pacing and starts to make animated gestures showing just how he would snap Brick’s neck. Abraham goes to restrain him again but Joe waves him off. Let Frank assault all the thin air he wants to if it helps him blow off steam.
Listen, I know you are going through some hard times. But you need to control yourself. Because right now, you're advertising your vulnerability to everybody in that locker room and if you keep it up they'll rip you to shreds. Channel that anger, use it to become a better wrestler, don't let it consume you.
Whatever doesn’t kill me makes me stronger, eh? What a load of bullsh*t. I have every right to be pissed off. Don’t you tell me how I should act.
Frank is right in Joe Bishop’s face but Joe holds his ground. He grabs Frank by his shoulders forcing him to look Joe right in the eyes. Joe continues to show incredible restraint in not physically beating some sense into Frank.
I’m trying to help. You were already heading down the wrong path with the chairs, tables, kendo sticks. Now you’re going even further because you can't control yourself. Go into your matches with a calm, clear head - use your skills, your MMA background, and beat your opponents fair and square. Don't make a mockery of this sport.
Frank breaks free of Joe’s grip and starts pacing again, arms flapping in the air wildly.
I didn’t realize I needed a life coach. Thank you so much for showing me the error of my WINNING ways.
You’ve been charging around like a bull in a china shop and once or twice you got lucky. You won’t just ‘get lucky' against McLargehuge. You're very capable of beating him but you need a good strategy and you need to have a calm head to execute it. I'm not seeing much evidence of either so far.
Your advice is duly noted, as unnecessary as it is. I can handle Tiny McPencildick just fine.
Angry and overconfident. That's a really bad combination. You go into SuperBrawl with this attitude and you'll lose. Blow your second shot at becoming a WFWF Champion because you can't keep your head and I guarantee it'll be a long time before you get a third chance.
That gets Frank’s attention. He may be angry but he isn’t stupid. No way does he want to lose the title match. The thought of both losing and then not getting another chance has a sobering effect on him. At least sobering enough that he stops pacing and flapping his arms like a flightless bird. Abraham is relieved because he was getting dizzy trying to keep up with Frank in case he had to restrain him again.
McLargehuge, Whitner, whoever I have to face in the ring is in for a sh*tstorm of pain. I won’t have to worry about a third chance because I am winning the GO title at Superbrawl.
You're not going to win it without taking a long look in the mirror. You could be a really strong addition to the WFWF if you stop acting like a petulant child and start taking this sport seriously. Think about what I'm saying, I don't want to teach you a lesson the hard way.
I’m the one teaching lessons from now on. Get out of my way or get your face smashed. Fearless Frank Lynn has been replaced by Furious Frank Lynn. You don’t have to worry about pissing Furious Frank off… he is always pissed off.
Don’t push me, Frank. I will push back.
Joe Bishop shrugs his shoulders, shakes his head, and walks away, taking a moment to glance back and give Frank one last warning glare before exiting the locker room. Maybe after he calms down some of what Bishop said will sink in. If not… there are other ways to make a point and Joe Bishop is well versed in most of them.
Abraham is stuck in the middle wanting to support his partner yet knowing how close Frank is to f*cking up everything for both of them. He had remained quiet hoping Joe Bishop would have better success talking sense to Frank than Abe had just a few weeks ago. It didn’t look like Joe had made a difference. Frank continues to stare at the door Joe Bishop exited through and carries on with his half of the conversation.
Don’t you worry Joe Bishop. I am winning the GO title at SuperBrawl. When I do, maybe I’ll come after you before you can challenge me for it.
You have more immediate worries. I’ll try to smooth things over with Brick but it could go badly. He could press charges.
Let him try. If he does, I may take him up on a match in the LPW ring and teach him another lesson.
Damnit Frank, this is serious! I think I can convince Brick to keep the police out of this but what about next time? You need to get your head straight before it is too late.
Abraham shrugs his shoulders and walks away to check on Brick Harrison, mirroring Joe Bishop’s exit almost move for move complete with a parting glare at Frank before exiting the room.
Frank knew that Abraham rarely yelled or cursed, so for him to do both at the same time had an immediate effect on him. He could ignore Joe Bishop’s words because Bishop was a crusader trying to remold the business into his image, but ignoring a business partner and respected friend like Abraham was not so easy. Now he is angry at himself for disappointing Abe and yet again wants to smash someone’s face. It was definitely time to end this disaster of a night.
Frank makes a quick search of his bag and finds his old El Tigre Blanco mask which he puts on. He changes into a different shirt and switches his trademark leather jacket for a generic hoodie to complete the transformation. He can use his newfound anonymity to exit the arena with no further incident and maybe, just maybe make one young fan happy on the way out.
———
A few hours later, Frank steps into his apartment. Doctor Claw saunters over to him and does that cat thing where he walks a figure eight between your legs which no cat owner can verify as either a show of affection or an attempt to trip you as a reminder of who is really in charge.
Frank is not in the mood and angrily lashes out, his foot catching Doctor Claw between his front and back legs, lifting him into the air and sending him flying across the room. The orange tabby shows all the grace expected of a cat and manages to land on his feet, then runs under the nearest piece of furniture.
Frank sees Doctor Claw cowering in fear under a bookcase. Then he sees his reflection in the glass coffee table, twisted by the imperfect glass, multiple light sources, and the odd angle into a warped funhouse mirror version of Frank Lynn. The reflection mocks him. Something inside him snaps, but instead of manifesting as rage it instead takes the form of despair. What kind of twisted monster is he becoming if he is randomly attacking an innocent and defenseless cat?
He takes a few steps towards Doctor Claw, but the cat tries to shrink back even further and hide. Frank sits on the floor with his head between his knees and his hands wrapped behind his head, rocking back and forth while he repeats the same phrase over and over.
What is wrong with me?
After ten minutes or so, Doctor Claw cautiously approaches Frank. The cat nudges Frank’s leg with his head. Frank looks up at the cat and cracks a little smile. Doctor Claw responds with a timid meow, still testing the waters and ready to bolt should another giant foot come in his direction.
Yeah Doc. You are right. Abraham is right. Joe Bishop is right. I can’t keep doing this. The guy in the car, the camera man, Brooks, Jenkins, Harrison, who knows what other incidents I am forgetting. I don’t want to end up in jail. I need help.
Doctor Claw continues to rub against Frank’s legs. It could be interpreted as the cat consoling Frank or it could be that the cat is hungry. Frank carefully picks up Doctor Claw, gently giving him a skritch behind the ears as he carries him to the kitchen. He gives the cat some food and water.
Thanks Doc. That’s twice you saved me.
Somewhere in the back of his head, Frank could hear the soothing voice of Becky saying You’re welcome.
———
San Diego, CA : The Gate
It’s promo time again so Frank is in the studio a few days before The Gate to record his thoughts going into his match. As luck (bad luck in the case of the camera man) would have it, he is working with the same camera man as the past two shows so they have the routine down pat.
Ready whenever you are Frank.
Thanks not-Ricky.
Gee, thanks. You remembered I’m not Ricky. Do you want to know my name?
Not yet. Let’s get on with it not-Ricky. I have to convince a mental midget of a giant that he has no chance against me.
And on that note not-Ricky starts recording.
Get your motors running boys, we are on the road to SuperBrawl! Six men on a collision course with each other to crown a champion!
No, I’m not talking about the clusterf*ck main event for Drakz’ World Heavyweight Championship where all anyone had to do to get in the match was come to the ring and cry about how it was their turn to lose to Drakz. Maybe I should have tried that after Mike Jette destroyed his knee. Perhaps the main event could have been seven men instead of six. Whatever. My time will come and when it does Drakz or whoever is holding the World Heavyweight Championship better be ready for the Lynn-sanity.
I was actually referring to the other six man clusterf*ck where history is guaranteed to be made: the Golden Opportunity Championship match! That is the match where I will become the first ever GOC. I beat that idiot LeeRoy Jenkins one-two-three at Horizon for the right to be in the GOC match. Two others are already in the match: Ante Whitner and Big McLargehuge. Three more will be determined at The Gate. I will be watching very closely to see whose asses I will be kicking at SuperBrawl. Hell, it looks like my good buddy LeeRoy is getting a second chance to qualify. Good luck LeeRoy! I’d love to see you at SuperBrawl so I can finally get my revenge while I am making history at the biggest show of the year.
The Gate is the last stop before the big show, the last chance to fine tune my wrestling and build some momentum. To be honest, even though I have been winning my matches they haven’t been the most impressive victories. Two shows ago it was a DQ win over Jenkins & Brooks after getting clocked by a chair and beat down until the ref had to step in. Yay me!
Last show it was a “cheap” win over Jenkins by small package. I don’t consider it a “cheap” win no matter what others may say but I do admit it was less than satisfying since Jenkins walked out instead of being stretchered straight to an ambulance. I warned Jenkins before the match to not make the mistake of turning his back on an opponent. He did it anyway and I took advantage. That is not cheap, that is smart. I may be slightly psycho but I do have my priorities and becoming the first GOC is currently at the top of my list. I will have to wait for another day to shove a steel chair up his hillbilly ass.
The point I’m trying to make is that I want to go into SuperBrawl hitting on all cylinders. The only way for me to do that is to get a convincing win at The Gate. Standing in my way is damn near 7 feet and over 300 pounds of stupidity named Big McLargehuge.
Frank disappears off camera for a few seconds and then returns with a life-size cardboard Big McLargehuge which towers over him. Frank emphasizes the point by placing his hand on top of his head, then raising it up to the top of Big’s head while looking up and whistling. He shrugs and turns back to the camera.
See, Big is… well… big. But…
Frank reaches behind Big’s head and pulls out a walnut which he holds up for the camera.
He has a brain the size of a walnut. Sorry, that may not be true. I didn’t do a catscan to verify the size of his brain so it is possible that his brain is actually the size of a pea. Regardless, he is a giant of a man with a larger shoe size than IQ. I would bet that when he was just a little Big he spent a lot of time on the short bus except that he wouldn’t fit in the damn thing so he was probably forced to run alongside the bus while the other kids pointed out the windows and laughed at him.
I apologize. It’s not right to lump Big in with the intellectually challenged. It is insulting to them because they are much smarter than Big.
The one positive about Big is that he has so far proved size really does matter which is why he is undefeated. Whether he says he is 2-0, 316-0, or 469-0, the fact is that Big hasn’t lost yet. The late, not-so-great Trevor Wolf and Devin Alexander aren’t exactly the highest level of competition in the WFWF but Big did beat them. That is why he is one of the six men who will fight for the GOC. And it is why he and I are going to face off at The Gate. Somethings got to give. Will it be Big? Or will it be me?
Frank stands beside the cardboard Big and pretends to whisper into Big’s ear.
Spoiler: It won’t be me.
Frank turns back to the camera and continues his rant.
It is actually a little refreshing to step in the ring with someone who isn’t a total loser like LeeRoy Jenkins or Mantis Toboggan. One day they may win a match but I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting for it to happen. Big Mac will be a step up from my usual opponents. Not much of a step up but hey… baby steps. I can’t wait to hand him his first loss and plant a seed of doubt in his walnut sized brain heading into the GOC match.
Some people might call this match David vs Goliath. I agree, except that I’m Goliath and Big is David. That’s because I am much smarter than Big and know exactly how to use leverage to knock his big ass down to the mat. Size matters and I will use his size against him. The bigger they are, the harder they fall and all that crap. Once Big is on the mat, it will be easy for me to hurt him so bad he cries for his momma… if he has one. I heard a rumor that he was actually thawed out of a block of ice some archaeologists found in the Himalayas and even now they are frantically searching for their missing “missing link”.
Big McLargehuge, I look forward to standing toe-to-toe, eye-to-chin with you at The Gate. I will beat you convincingly, no disqualifications or cheap roll-up pins, and head into the GOC match with momentum on my side. Then I will beat you again along with four others at SuperBrawl when I win the Golden Opportunity Championship!
Frank kicks the legs out from under the cardboard Big McLargehuge and it falls to the floor. Then Frank drops the walnut on to Big’s face and stomps on it, grinding it into powder with the heel of his hiking boot.
I am destined for bigger things than you, Big. I will be the FIRST EVER GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY CHAMPION. For once in your life, do the smart thing. Get the f*ck out of my way!
———
Notes:
Part 3 of my 4 part Superbrawl arc. For those of you wondering if I would be introducing new supporting characters in this arc, meet Joe Bishop…no wait, that’s not right… Thanks to Markw for letting me use Joe Bishop and helping me get his dialogue just right.
I dont know good luck 