WFWF Ultimate Supremacy: Easter Rising

And the public gets what the public wants...
Joe Bishop vs. David Brennan

That really wasn't how this was supposed to go, was it?

I mean, I can't help but enjoy imagining the panicked reaction of the marketing team as they saw all their pretty little 'Former World Champion, Hall of Famer (without an asterisk)' Trace Demon vs. 'The Next Big Thing' Ante Whitner, match graphics and summaries get ripped out from under them.

Heck, last I looked they hadn't even had time to whip up any of the usual snazzy graphics for WFWF.COM that usually accompany a PPV Main Event, a WFWF World Championship match.

We really have thrown a spanner in the works haven't we?

I'll admit, I get a pretty big kick out of that.

Obviously, I was delighted to beat Trace Demon. I don't think it's a secret that I was desperate to finally beat him, to stop him getting close to another run with the World Championship. And of course, I want to win this tournament and that title, there'd be no point being here if I didn't.

But honestly, I was almost as pleased to see you beat Ante too.

I couldn't help but have half an eye on that match, and I couldn't help but smile to myself, when you hit that second Charles River Plunge, got the 1...2...3 and booked your place in the Main Event of Ultimate Supremacy.

Not because I think Ante's weakened your arm, or I think your gonna be less of a challenge than he would be, or any s*** like that. Couldn't be further from the truth.

No, I was pleased, because we both know, everybody knows, that it's the last thing the establishment wanted.

They don't want David Brennan in title matches, any more than they want Joe Bishop in title matches.

If they want us at all, it's to prop up people like Drakz, Kyzer, Trace, do their dirty work, and make sure they stay on top of the pile, because they've got name value. They've got a distinct look. They're more than willing to do or say whatever's gonna get people tuning in, if it'll keep them on top of the pile.

They don't want someone like me, who's calling them out.

And they certainly don't want someone who they're f***ing s***scared is about to have another relapse and ditch this place, again, for the bottle and bar fights.

There's so much talk about uncertainty these days. Brexit, elections across Europe coinciding with the rise of the far-right, Don and Kim waving their members at one another, and all we ever hear about is how bad that is for the 'markets'. How much they hate that uncertainty.

I don't want to draw too much of a comparison, because all of those things are absolutely God awful.

But, the people who are investing money in, seeking a profit out of, a professional sport, it's nice that we're pissing them off just a little. That we've made sure they're getting a champion who they've been trying so hard to stop.

I mean, when Night Five of this Gauntlet came to a close, and you and I were left, that must have been their worst nightmare come to life.

Not only are the WFWF fans getting the match that they didn't even realise they want. A match that is going to put every no-ropes barbedwire Obo 'match of the year' we had to endure, to shame. A match that's going to put every 'Drakz steals the win in the seven millionth multi-man main event this year 'match of the year' we've had to endure, to shame.

A match that is going to see two of the best wrestlers around going head to head and getting the very best out of one another, setting a new benchmark for WFWF wrestlers. A new standard that WFWF fans expect from their World Championship matches.

Not only that. But there's no way we can come out of this match, I thought, with anything other than a WFWF Champion who is going to offer something different. Who's going to refuse to play the game the marketing department and the business people want us to.

A Champion who's going to do whatever they feel is right, or in your case, just whatever the hell they feel like. And you know what, that's a damn site better than having another puppet champion, who either plays the cookie cutter goodie the fans can get behind, or the comic book villain who demonstrates every negative trait they can think of for the sake of making rich f***ers richer.

And the best thing is, as far as I was concerned, that the WFWF fans are going to get used to someone like you or I as World Champion, and they're gonna expect that. They're going to demand that the WFWF Champion does whatever they feel is right, instead of playing a part in some shallow little story.

But the more and more I've listened, the more and more I've started taking on board the things David Brennan has been saying...

The more and more concerned I've been.

---

Silly boy, silly boy, silly boy, such a silly boy...
I was just thinking, you know, how refreshing it is to see Joe Bishop like this. So ready for this match with Trace Demon, so prepared, so calm, so relaxed. It seems so rare to see him like that, and it's a shame because there's really no need for all this anger, for the amount he overworks to prepare for wrestling matches.

He just needs to learn to keep calm like this more often.

Then I turn the corner. And I'm greeted by the site of my father, an icepack pressed up against his right eye, being tended to by two of his trainees. It's amazing how quickly a good day can turn to s*** isn't it?

Poppy Yates: What the f*** happened?

Andy Yates: Nothing.

Poppy Yates: Nothing?

Then 'what's the f***ing ice pack for?' would have been my question had I not finally got an explanation from someone less concerned with protecting a man who's interested, only, in himself.

Martyn Howard: Joe hit him.

Poppy Yates: He did what!?

I shouldn't have been surprised really. His behaviour had been so out of character that I should have trusted the part of me that was screaming 'He's not okay'.

I guess I just wanted to believe otherwise.

I wanted to believe that he's not just an angry little man who'll lash out at anybody who isn't telling him that he's f***ing Che Guevara.

And I can't believe that my stupid f***ing brain is thinking about Joe Bishop, because not everything should be about him, but somehow he's found a way to make it like that.

Poppy Yates: Are you okay Dad?

Andy Yates: I'm fine. Occupational hazard.

Poppy Yates: Occupational hazard? He's a grown f***ing man, he should be able to control his temper.

Andy Yates: He's a wrestler, he loses his temper, it's what we do.

Poppy Yates: That's not good enough.

It's not. No matter how many excuses Dad tries to make for him, no matter how many he'll no doubt have to make for himself, he should be above that.

Poppy Yates: What did you do anyway?

Andy Yates: It's not what I did.

Poppy Yates: What did you say?

Andy Yates: I... I said he wouldn't be a good champion...

That's it?!

Poppy Yates: Boo f***ng hoo. He hit you for that? Jesus Christ he's pathetic.

Andy Yates: I'm supposed to encourage him, motivate him, I failed him.

Poppy Yates: Oh wow! You think you deserved it too, this is amazing.

Andy Yates: I'm not saying that. I'm just saying, he's under a lot of pressure right now, I didn't exactly help.

Poppy Yates: He needs someone to teach him that there's more important things than some f***ing ideological crusade against what, the evil corporate wrestling industry?

Dad decided to ignore that one, 'cause he's every bit as guilty of believing that nonsense. He just tried to steer the conversation away from how much of a t*** Joe Bishop can be.

Andy Yates: We'll settle it like men.

Fat lot of good that'll do.

Poppy Yates: No, I'm gonna settle it like a woman.

Andy Yates: He'll feel every bit as bad as you do.

Poppy Yates: Yeah, he will.

I'm absolutely sure of that.

Poppy Yates: As soon as I get my hands on him.

---

I've waited hours for this, I've made myself so sick...
Christa Adina: Here is your winner and Block A finalist, Joe Bishoooooop!

Ah...

God that felt good.

Honestly from that moment things are a blur really, and I've not watched it back. I gather Trace had another little tête-à-tête with Ms. Quinn and Dave came out in what I guess was some misguided attempt to intimidate me... I don't really know.

Maybe I've pissed him off. Who knows.

I was in my head the whole time to be honest.

Finally, finally, I had beaten Trace Demon. Finally I had overcome a man who time and time again has had my number in that ring. Finally I had taken that next step, put myself in contention for a Championship that I know I can defend with infinitely more class and dedication than any of its recent holders.

Finally I had done it.

That was the over-riding feeling.

And it wasn't until a good five or ten minutes later that all of that went away, and was replaced with, what I think was an altogether more healthy feeling.

It was only then that I took on board my surroundings and found myself, for the first time after a match in a long long time, alone.

I guess I've always imagined this sort of momentous achievement, finally besting this man who has been a thorn in my side my whole career, would result in the mother of all parties.

Not that that's my thing. Not that I feel it needs to be celebrated in that way... I just kind of expected it.

To be honest it felt a little odd not having Poppy trailing me round. I'd kind of been ready to see the look on her face, on Andy's, when they saw me finally do what they – like everybody else – weren't entirely sure I could do.

But there's no one. Nobody there to share this moment with.

It was just me, alone, with the knowledge that yes, I was right.

I can beat Trace Demon.

It wasn't until I found myself walking out of that arena, confronted by your run-of-the-mill autograph hunter, that I suppose I really stopped to thing about things. They managed to get me thinking and to be honest, I don't think I've stopped since.

WFWF Fan: How does it feel?

You know I've been thinking an awful lot of late, about what it is I need to do, after Ultimate Supremacy has been and gone, to make sure things change.

To make sure that the WFWF changes, for the better, as a result of it.

About what a revolution needs to be a success. Because, let's face it, it's not just about 'seizing power'. Not that that's what I'll be doing at Ultimate Supremacy as such, it's just that I'll be in a much stronger position to change things.

But the key thing is making those changes and consolidating them.

Making sure that the WFWF is carried along for the ride and improves as a result of it.

I suppose the first thing a Revolution needs, basic though it may sound, is something to revolt against.

Otherwise, what's the point?

I'm not just doing this for the sake of it, I'm doing it because it's the right thing to do.

WFWF Fan: How does it feel?

Joe Bishop: How does what feel?

WFWF Fan: Finally beating Trace Demon?

So how does it feel?

Anti-climactic I guess.

Because, much as he was a part of the problem. Is a part of the problem. Much as I dislike him, professionally and personally.

Trace Demon isn't what I'm revolting against.

In a lot of ways you know, I'm glad Poppy and Andy weren't here to take it in. I'm glad there wasn't the grand celebration I'd been expecting.

Because it would be completely distasteful to celebrate winning the first battle of a war that is so far away from being won. It'd be f***ing stupid frankly.

There's no doubt, that when it's all over, however good, bad or indifferent my career's been, people will talk about that match with Trace as being one of my most important. I'm not oblivious to that.

But right now?

There's another battle to turn my attention to, and a revolution that still needs to be built from the bottom up.

Trace Demon isn't what this revolution's about. I'm not revolting against him, or Schneider, or any one, two or three members of The New Epoch

It's about, quite the simply, the way things are and the way things should be. About making the latter, the former.

So how does it feel. How am I feeling after finally besting Trace Demon in that ring?

Joe Bishop: Incomplete.

---

And the words don't mean a thing...
The face of the company.

The face of the company.

It's an odd aspiration that, isn't it?

I mean, I grew out of wanting to be Mickey Mouse when I was five, but it seems an awful lot of WFWF wrestlers have clung on to that dream.

It's so engrained now. The idea is so shoved down our throats, by business people who want professional wrestlers to be more concerned with the 'companies' fortunes in the stock market, than with the fate of the sport, that f***ing serious wrestlers seem to be buying into it.

Even guys who usually see past their s***, guys who are willing to question the people above them and to f*** with the consequences, are flirting with that idea. Athletes, for want of a better term, who are really just here to put your shoulders down on the mat 1...2....3, and move on to next unlucky guy who's placed in their path. Even guys like that, are wondering... 'why aren't I the face of this whole two bit operation?'

Depressing, right?

I mean, it used to be funny. To some extent, at least. Watching these piss poor 'superstars' who couldn't even tie their laces, stepping up and telling us all they're 'Gonna be the face of the company herp derp'. Your Andrew Carters or your Dave Dementos. They were funny.

Obviously, it was painful that the WFWF was employing them, but you could at least have a good laugh at their expense.

But David Brennan?

Seriously?

Even he's talking now about how he's going to be the 'Face of the company'.

I didn't realise this s*** was f***ing contagious. Please, for the love of God, if I ever start calling the WFWF a 'company', if I ever lament not being it's figurehead, somebody take me out back and shoot me in the head.

Life would no longer be worth living.

You know all of this talk of being the 'face of the company', of monopolising the WFWF championships, of 'conquering' this place, or the world or whatever the f*** it is you mistakenly think you're about to conquer. Like you think you're about to become the emperor of your own little empire. I can't be the only one who finds that all a little distasteful.

I can't be the only one who's hearing that, and worrying about what it is that motivates you to walk out there and step into that ring.

Heck if your taste in entrance music is anything to go by I imagine each and every one of your more distant ancestors is rolling in their uaigh.

It ain't exactly shining freedom's light through the foggy dew is it?

I get it though, I do.

Because, let's face it, I'm coming from the same place.

I know what it's like to be told you can't.

You can't be the 'Face of the Company', you're too unreliable.

We can't market you, you're not a good role model.

Ace Bennett can waltz back in and take his Scars & Stripes title shot whenever the f*** he pleases, but you can't have your Survival of the Fittest title shot.

I'm not saying, for even a second, that any of that's fair man. It's not. You've got as much reason as anyone to have a problem with the ways things are around here.

You've had to work ten times harder than almost anybody else would've done, to get your shot at this, because somebody decided you weren't what they're looking for.

I sympathise, I really do, because that's exactly what I've done too.

I get, that there's a temptation, after all of that s***, after all of that work to prove them wrong. I get that there's a temptation to say 'f*** you I'm the 'Face of the Company' and there's not a thing you can do about it'. That there's a temptation to say 'I'm Mickey Mouse, I run this place, and everybody who's stood in my way can suck it up'.

And I get, that you, you're not particularly great at saying no to temptation.

There's nothing noble about the things you're saying. They're not particularly helpful, not for you, not for the sport, not for anyone.

But you know, I'm not worried.

Because frankly, I don't believe for even a second, that any of that bulls***', is what's really motivating David Brennan.

---

I want to be good, is that not enough?...
What a revolution needs, above all else, is support.

It's impossible to achieve change without people around you, without help.

With that in mind, I know, that I need to swallow my pride. And admit, that I made a mistake.

Andy Yates has done nothing but help me knock down every roadblock that's been in my path, and I lashed out because for a moment he doubted me.

I have to put that right.

Not just because it's the right thing to do, but because this revolution can't happen without him.

So, I went down to his wrestling school, and hoped I'd be able to find him and put it right. Instead I was met by the redhead whirlwind that is Hugh Boyd.

Shuggy: Awright Big Man!

I suppose I should explain that 'Shuggy' as he's known (I don't get it either, don't ask) is about 5'6”, 5'7”, so practically everyone he's ever met is 'big man'.

He's also the absolute archetypal spot monkey.

A talentless so-called 'wrestler' who gets by on undeniable charisma and the ability to look cool doing flips off of s***. What Andy sees in him I have no idea. But he's certainly, behind me maybe, Andy's biggest project. The guy who gets most of his attention.

My theory, is that Andy just likes the idea of taking someone completely talentless and making them one of the best around. It's an ego-trip if you ask me.

But, in spite of all of that, I've got to admit...

Shuggy: If it ain't the next World Champion in the flesh.

It's impossible not to like the wee f***er.

Shuggy: How are you my man?

Joe Bishop: Not too bad I guess, you?

Shuggy: Not too bad? Come on, you've just won a World title shot, cheer up.

Joe Bishop: Yeah... well, the job's not done.

Shuggy: Fair do's, fair do's. What brings ya here anyhows? Didnae think you'd be showing yer face again too soon after leaving one on the main man.

I suppose I shouldn't be really. Feels a little like I've burned my bridges, and the lack of contact with Andy or Poppy might suggest I'm not welcome, but I've got to try nonetheless.

Joe Bishop: Yeah well, I need his help.

Shuggy: Don't worry about it, he's fine. Sure he'll be happy to help you out.

Joe Bishop: Well I wasn't worried, but I'm ready to grovel.

Shuggy: Aye well it's not him you need to grovel to.

Joe Bishop: No?

Shuggy: Nah, last I heard Poppy wants to rip yer f***in' head off.

Of course she does.

Shuggy: Yous twos need to stop beating around the bush already, it's f***in' painful to watch.

Seriously, where the hell has this come from?

Joe Bishop: ...how things going for you anyway?

Shuggy: Alright I guess, Andy's got me working non-stop though, right pain in the arse.

God forbid you have to work to go from being a joke to a talented wrestler. It's a shame Shuggy's so likeable 'cause he's a real s***head.

Joe Bishop: It's for your own good.

Shuggy: Aye I suppose... Brennan then huh?

Joe Bishop: Yep.

Shuggy: Gonna beat him?

Before I could answer the door swung open and we were joined by one Andy Yates, who seemed more than a little surprised to see me.

And before I could do what I'd come to do. Grovel, apologise, do whatever it was gonna take to get Andy Yates back on side. Whatever it was going to take to get him supporting my preparation for this match with David Brennan. Before I could apologise for lashing out at him...

Lights Out.

He returned the favour.

…

I shook off the cobwebs and glanced up to see Andy's outstretched hand.

Andy Yates: We're even.

He said, lifting me to my feet.

Joe Bishop: Thank you. I'm sorry.

Andy Yates: Don't worry about it, you run a wrestling school and believe me, you'll get used to it.

Joe Bishop: All the same, I know you've only ever been trying to help me. I shouldn't have lashed out.

Andy Yates: I'm sorry too.

Wasn't expecting that.

Andy Yates: I underestimated you. I thought you didn't know what you were doing, that you were about to throw away everything you've worked for, I was dead wrong.

Joe Bishop: You weren't the only one if it helps.

Andy Yates: Yeah but I should have known better.

He stretched out his hand...

Andy Yates: No hard feelings?

And I shook it. Certainly wasn't expecting it to be that easy, but I guess Andy gets that, I'd had just about enough of being told where I was going wrong.

Joe Bishop: No hard feelings.

Shuggy: Yous need to get a room fellas.

Think that one counts as a miss.

Andy Yates: You're hilarious.

Joe Bishop: Anyway I'm here because I need your help.

Andy Yates: Yeah?

Joe Bishop: Absolutely, I was more than ready for Trace Demon. David Brennan's gonna take some serious work.

Andy Yates: He sure is, he's been looking unbeatable.

I'd almost forgotten Shuggy was here after tuning out his awful joke, until he piped in and, essentially, summed up this whole match in one little, David Brennan style, rough round the edges, sound-bite.

Shuggy: Aye, he's a tough b******, but he ain't Joe Bishop is he?

Truer words.

Joe Bishop: He sure ain't.

I focused again on Andy.

Joe Bishop: You gonna help me beat him?

Andy Yates: Come on then, let's get to work.

---

Immortalists with points to prove...
See I've been hearing an awful lot of stuff that's had me concerned.

But I've also been watching. And the more and more I've watched, the more and more I've seen of David Brennan in that ring...

The more my fears have dissipated.

See the more I've watched of David Brennan, the more impressed I've been with him, as a wrestler. It's only when you take a step back, and really watch, really analyse what you're seeing, that you appreciate just how f***ing good this man has been.

I can't believe I fell for the establishment propaganda, but I really did temporarily fall into the trap of thinking this guy was just some one-dimensional brawler, who'd be just at home in a bar fight as he is in a WFWF ring.

It's only when you really take the time to dissect what he's doing in the ring, that you see how good he is.

Now me, I gotta say, I watch that man and I don't think for a second, that it's about being the 'Face of the Company'.

Maybe that's what people want for you. Maybe that's what you want for them.

But I don't believe, that in your heart of hearts, you give a f***.

I don't think it's got anything to do with the pageantry, with the attention, or any of that other horses***. I don't think it's about making sure that whenever anyone hears the name Brennan, they associate it, only, with David. World Champion.

Nah.

There's an empire already there, built up for you, and if it was about image. If it was about being as notorious as your father or if it was about making sure people know who you are, you could use Daddy's empire for that.

If it was about glamour or money, well, that'd be an incredible level of greed. 'cause there's not too many wrestlers who get around on a private jet, so I highly doubt you need it.

If it was just about hurting people, if it was just about doing it 'cause that's how you get your kicks, because it's fun, then you wouldn't have given up the drink. You'd be in a bar somewhere downing shots and beating up rednecks.

No, I think, it's much more simple.

I think it's what motivates most good professional wrestlers.

I think, deep down, you just want to be the best.

I think you saw the damage the drink could do to your in ring performance, I think you started gassing early one night, and you thought, 'I've got to stop this'.

Because for you, first and foremost, it's about proving yourself. Proving your dominance.

Selfish? A little, sure.

But it motivates all of us, of course it does. I'm not preaching, I think it's a pretty damn good attitude to have.

You shouldn't be stepping into that ring if you're not motivated to prove your the best. If you don't really mind whether it's a win or a loss as long as there's a pay cheque at the end of it.

That's not a wrestler.

It's about competition, it's about proving yourself in that ring, and if that's selfish well f*** it, that's the game we're in.

It's obvious, watching you, that you're as motivated for a match with someone like Dex as you are for a match with Ante Whitner. Because even if the whole world knows that you've got it in the bag, you've always got a point to prove. And I think, perhaps, just a little, you're offended by opponents who aren't motivated to beat you.

Well there's no need to worry on that count. I like to think I'm every bit the competitor you are. I know I am.

I do respect it though, I've got to admit. It may be what I expect of an opponent, that they care, that they want to win more than anything else. That they care enough about this sport to try and do it the right way.

But I've come to learn that I certainly can't expect it of everyone I step into the ring with.

I respect you. And I appreciate that you go into that ring every single night, as you've done throughout this tournament, and you put absolutely everything into coming out on top.

The things you've been saying, they're a tad concerning yeah, but talk is cheap. And often, I find people say things that they don't really mean, that don't really reflect what they want or believe.

They just say things because Daniel Knight sticks a microphone in their face moments after an emotionally draining match and they have to say something.

I don't think you really care about building an empire, about ruling this place in an authoritarian way. You don't want to be Drakz lite. I don't think.

I think you just want to be the best, and hey, join the club.

Actions speak louder than words. Matches mean more than what you say to shut up the p*** who thrusts his microphone into your face.

You are proving, night after night, that for you, it's not about any of the cr*p.

---

Grab it and change it, it's yours...
Of course, it's not news that a revolution needs support. That it needs revolutionaries, plural.

I've been banging that drum for a long, long time.

And as much as I've tired to make a difference, to keep people from falling into the same sort of traps I fell into when I was first making my way in this fed, I feel like I've struggled to make much of a difference at all.

Those who are just starting out in the WFWF are most susceptible to it, to being sucked into the sleazy world that generation after generation of WFWF wrestler has helped build. And I guess that's one of the reasons Frank Lynn's someone I've been trying to convince. Of course, his background, his potential, the similarities between the two of us, that all goes without saying. But shining a light on what people like Drakz, Kyzer, Trace do, for the sake of the next generation of WFWF wrestlers, regardless of their level. That's so important.

Knowing that they understand that that's not the right way of doing things.

So, obviously, I couldn't have been happier, when Frank Lynn came to me, and let me know that my struggle hasn't been in vain.

Frank Lynn: You were right.

I'm not gonna deny that there was just a little bit of a rush when I finally made Trace Demon tap out in the centre of the ring, got the victory that's for so long been out of my reach. But that feeling was matched, by the realisation that I finally had an ally in this fight, somebody as committed to this cause as I am...

Frank Lynn: I might have my doubts about whether this crusade can make the difference yo... we want it to, but I can't stand by and let them get away with it. I can't let Trace Demon do what he did to me, and not make a stand.

It's ironic really, that just as I 'vanquished' that demon, he's found his way into the head of another talented young wrestler, who, just like me, threatens Trace Demon. This talk about Trace Demon making me, about me being his legacy, I mean that is just the biggest load of horses*** I've ever heard. And I like to think that our different approaches to this sport that I love, that he uses, are pretty damn obvious to everybody now.

But, I've got to admit, I owe Trace Demon one.

Because Frank Lynn just needed that little push in the right direction, that illuminating moment that made it obvious that the WFWF can't stay the way it is. That nobody who takes it seriously, can hope to achieve anything worthwhile, when there are men like Trace Demon deciding that their grievances, are bigger than the sport.

Frank Lynn: I'm never going to achieve anything here, if we can't change it.

Joe Bishop: We will.

Frank Lynn: So... what happens now?

Good question.

Joe Bishop: We steal the show, every single night. We do it the right way, and we don't stop until every fan in that building is telling the business people, the suits, the press, everyone, that they want wrestlers like Joe Bishop and Frank Lynn. That they've had enough of the same old s***.

Frank Lynn: You think that's gonna work?

Joe Bishop: I think it's already working, starting too anyway.

Frank Lynn: And I suppose the World Championship couldn't hurt the cause.

I smiled, it's obvious to everyone how important this match is. How much the revolution myself and Frank believe in, can be helped by victory in this match. It's a hell of a lot of pressure.

But that pressure, it's driving me to do everything in my power to make sure that I'm ready for David Brennan.

Joe Bishop: I've been meaning to talk to you about that actually...

And heck, if my fellow revolutionary can lend a hand in that department, then that's a huge bonus.

Joe Bishop: What did you make of Brennan?

Frank Lynn: What my match with him?

I nod.

Frank Lynn: I wasn't ready for him. He's smarter than people think.

I'm struggling to remember the last person who was ready for David Brennan.

Frank Lynn: I made rookie mistakes and he capitalized on them. It won't happen again.

Joe Bishop: Good to hear.

It really was. The last time I'd talked to Frank Lynn he was about ready to throw in the towel, now, a few weeks on, he's got that fire back. And he's putting it into a war that's worth fighting.

Joe Bishop: He's gonna be tough to beat then?

Frank Lynn: Oh absolutely, he's tough. You don't need me to tell you that. I had my chances but I just couldn't put him away. You can. Trust your instincts and avoid stupid mistakes. You got this.

Joe Bishop: Thanks.

Frank Lynn: No thanks necessary, just calling it as I see it.

Joe Bishop: Still I appreciate it. And it's nice to know I've got an ally in this fight. We're gonna need each other, because there's a whole heap of guys back there who don't like what we're saying one bit.

Frank Lynn: Yeah well, they won't be able to argue when you win that World title fair and square.

This is getting creepy now, seems all you have to do is beat Trace Demon and everyone believes in you all of a sudden.

Kind of missing the doubters, still I reckon I know where to find one...

---

Do you want to know, know that it doesn't hurt me?...
I suppose it's inevitable that my anger wasn't going to last all that long, it never does. Not for me anyway. I've no idea how Joe manages to hold onto his for so long, how he can remain so constantly infuriated by whatever it is that pisses him off so much about pro wrestling. Maybe being able to hold onto that anger for so long is what makes him an affective wrestler, and maybe it's what makes him lash out. I don't know.

Regardless, now my anger had fallen away and been replaced by an overwhelming disappointment. Of feeling like I've been let down.

And yeah, I know, I've no logical reason to be disappointed. Dad's fine, he's got no problem with Joe. I just...

I don't know...

Joe Bishop: Hey.

Turns out I was wrong about losing that anger. As the front door swung open and I was greeted by a smiling Joe Bishop, my right hand decided it was gonna take it's best shot at slapping his teeth out.

It gave off a sound that must've made anyone in a five mile radius wince. Must have stung like f***.

Not sure I should be proud of that, but he deserves it so...

I pulled my hand back as his head jerked away and then slowly turned back towards me. Fair to say he looks more worse for wear than a wrestler going into a match like this should. Tired, like he's overthinking it, and with a f***ing huge black eye that I assume is the work of Trace Demon. Not sure why I care.

Joe Bishop: I deserved that.

Quite literally my thoughts exactly.

Poppy Yates: Yeah, you did.

Joe Bishop: I'm sorry.

Poppy Yates: Yeah, well, it's not me you need to apologise to is it?

Joe Bishop: I've already apologised to your Dad, he's fine.

Poppy Yates: Good for him.

Joe Bishop: I didn't mean to upset you. I just, I lost control for a second. It was stupid I know.

You can say that again.

Honestly I'm not even sure what he's doing here. Why he cares what I think. He's spent long enough telling me that he doesn't care, that he wants me stop bugging him. Well I've stopped. I've not asked him a question about the WFWF, not commented – even though it's my job to do so – on his match with Trace. I've avoided him like the plague and here he is, at my doorstep, trying to put this right when he can't.

Joe Bishop: Are we okay?

Poppy Yates: I just... I thought you were better. I expected better than that.

What was wrong with that I don't know, seems fair enough to me. But it certainly got him riled up again...

Joe Bishop: Hitting people is quite literally my day job, why on earth did you expect better?

Amazing.

Poppy Yates: You really don't get it do you?

Joe Bishop: No! I don't!

Poppy Yates: Unbelievable.

He just f***ing shrugged like I don't have every right to be unhappy with him.

Poppy Yates: You know what forget it. Just... just leave me alone.

God knows why it hurts to say this.

Poppy Yates: I don't want anything to do with you. I know it'll come as a huge shock, but I don't want a pre-title match interview, I don't want you to come on my podcast after you've won or lost the World Title and telling everyone why it happened or what happens next. I don't want any of it. I just want you to get out of my life, because... you're just not worth it.

Joe Bishop: Oh no I won't get to do interviews with you any more, woe is me.

What an utter c***

Poppy Yates: Go away Joe.

Joe Bishop: With pleasure, not even sure why I came.

Nor am I.

---

Well, you tried it just for once found it all right for kicks...
Addiction's a funny thing really isn't it?

Because if we're really truly honest with ourselves, I think we'd all admit, that there's something, that has a hold over us.

There's something that if we wanted to stop, and generally people don't, we just couldn't. Not for long anyway.

The only real difference between all of our different addictions, is the way society treats them. That's it.

Some are trivialised, treated like they just aren't a big deal and I guess, really, that's the way most should be treated. Because if doing something brings you pleasure, then who's got the right to tell you it's wrong? I don't know.

Some, the alcoholism for example, are demonised. And those afflicted, are a blight on humanity. A stain that needs to be wiped clean. They're sub-human and they have to feel ashamed. The very least we expect of them, is that they'll hate themselves for it.

Others aren't even recognised.

I don't get it.

We all give in to something. Ranking them is stupid.

Andy Yates: Wow! There's no stopping you right now is there?

Sorry did you think this was all about you Dave?

Nah.

I don't mean to downplay the personal importance of your on again off again, will they won't they relationship with the bottle. Nor to dismiss the success you've had beating it, here, have a cookie.

It's just that, as vices go, it's a bit dull really, isn't it?

Joe Bishop: Is there ever?

No, this, this is about my battle.

Well, battle's not the right word actually, I've never tried to fight it. I've maybe not embraced it as much as I should some times, but right now I'm embracing it as much as I ever have. As much as I possibly can.

See it's important to think not just about what a revolution needs, but about what a revolutionary needs to be. Because if I want to change this place, then I need to get that just right. I have to be giving everything I can possibly give to this 'cause.

And you know, for all the bad rep it gets, I think an addictive personality is pretty high up on the list of things that someone who wants to change things needs.

Andy Yates: Well you didn't seem all too concerned with training ahead of Trace Demon did you.

Joe Bishop: Touché. I'd already done the work for that one though.

See a revolutionary needs to be completely committed to doing whatever they have to do, no matter what it takes out of them, to make sure that at the end of the day, they succeed.

They have to be incapable of stopping themselves, even if they want to, because you stop, and you give the enemy a window to snatch back what you've taken from them.

Joe Bishop: David Brennan is another thing entirely.

Andy Yates: Of course he is. And if you're footwork's as sloppy as that he'll put you on your arse so you'd better stop yapping and keep working.

Joe Bishop: Fair enough.

See the thing is, the reason I've worked so hard throughout this tournament. The reason I've been putting hours and hours into it, pushing my body to its absolute limit.

It's the same reason you need to be ready for the end of your who knows how long unbeaten streak.

See Dave, the bad news for you, is that I'm a wrestling addict.

And I'm having the mother of all relapses.

---

And the public wants what the public gets...
Ultimately, ideology, the potential futures, the motivation, all of that s***, it's not gonna mean a thing when we step into that ring.

It won't really matter what I want the WFWF to be. Or what's driving you to do what you're doing. Not really.

I'm not saying those things aren't important, that they aren't significant. Of course they are. I wouldn't be so concerned about them, if they didn't matter. They're the sort of things that are going to determine what kind of champion either of us would be. What kind of leader we'd be.

They're the factors that are going to determine whether David Brennan or Joe Bishop as WFWF Champion is good or bad for this sport.

But when the two of us meet in the centre of that ring, all that's going to matter, is who has it in them to win this match.

Who has the ability, the determination, the resilience, the hunger, you get the picture. What I'm trying to say is, who's better.

That's all that's going to determine the outcome of this one.

That's the only thing that's going to decide which one of us becomes the new WFWF World Champion. Which one of us becomes the person who has the eyes of every WFWF fan, squarely on us.

Which one of us gets to set the tone for the whole future direction of professional wrestling.

It's a huge responsibility, and that responsibility isn't going to fall, necessarily, to the man best equipped to deal with it. It's going to fall to the person who's better than there opponent on this one night.

And you know what, I wouldn't have it any other way.

Because the future of the WFWF, it can't simply be what somebody wants it to be. What I want it to be. It can't be decided by Trace Demon or Lila Sleater or whoever the f*** else wishes they could decide what it is. And it damn sure can't be bought and sold.

The right to shape the WFWF's future is going to be earned, as it should be, in that ring. And it's going to be earned when you and I go head to head for that World Championship at Ultimate Supremacy.

And I'm gonna do exactly what I've been doing from the moment I came back to the WFWF.

I'm gonna earn the right to shape it.

I'm confident of that. Not because I'm underestimating you, or because I doubt your ability in there, of course not. I'm not blind.

You're gonna be the biggest challenge I've ever faced in that ring. I know that.

And I believe I can win, because I believe in myself. Because I know that I have the ability, and the drive, and the mental strength, to do it. Because I have prepared so f***ing hard for this moment, I've put years into this, and I know, that I've done enough to win this.

I could reel off the people I've beat, the demons I've vanquished, the opponents I've faced. But that wouldn't prove anything, because you could come back with an equally impressive list, I know.

I'm saying I'm the best, and I believe it. And even though, I know, it's not tangible yet. It's not something where I can point at an accomplishment or a victory and say 'that proves it', not until I've beaten you anyway.

It's not blind faith either.

It's just an honest assessment of where I am. An assessment of where the years of hard work have gotten me. Into a position where I can stand up and say 'I'm not going to cheat, I'm going to do this the right way, even though it makes the hill I'm running up that much steeper' and I can still go out there night after night and use everything I've learned, to get victory after victory after victory.

Yeah I think I'm better than you, yeah I think I've worked harder for it and yeah I think that'll be reflected when this match comes to its climax. Yes I think that I'll be the next World Champion and that I'll be the one who gets to move this sport in the direction I want it to go.

But if I don't then I'll hold my hands up and admit, that on the day, you were just better.

There's no shame in that.

I'm just happy that I've got the chance to earn this opportunity against someone who craves that victory as much as I'm craving it.

I'll hold nothing back for you Brennan. Both because I desperately want to be the man who spearheads the WFWF into a brave new world, and, because, that's what I do. Because you're an opponent, and just like you, I'm a proper wrestler.

---

You can't always get what you want...
What I've always known, sometimes tried to deny, is that above all, a revolution... it needs, a voice.

You can have all the good intentions in the world, you can go into every match determined that you're not going to cheat, not going to take shortcuts, not going to steal a victory. But if you can't communicate to the fans, that it's more than just a personal decision, it's an attempt to change the WFWF so that that's what every wrestler does in that ring, if you can't communicate that, well, you may as well just be Shawn Malakai or Yukio Blaze.

Because you're gonna make about as much difference as they did.

Much as I've tried to fight it, because I find that side of things entirely distasteful, the media are going to be a necessary evil as far as this revolution is concerned.

I'd rather that necessary evil came in the form of someone who I know isn't about to stab me in the back.

And so, I found myself, against all better judgement, trying to fix this. Again.

Joe Bishop: I'm sorry.

Poppy Yates: Piss off.

Joe Bishop: Please.

I begged.

Poppy Yates: What do you want Joe? Why are you here?

Joe Bishop: Because I need you.

She let her guard down just a little.

Poppy Yates: You don't deserve me.

Joe Bishop: I'm not saying I do. But deserve it or not, I need you. I need you in my corner, because you, you're closest friend I've had. The strongest ally I've had. I wouldn't be anywhere near this if it wasn't for you.

And that's not any salesman bull, that's the truth.

Joe Bishop: I want you to be a part of it. I need you to.

Poppy Yates: Yeah...?

She asked tentatively, her defence clearly down.

Joe Bishop: Absolutely. If this revolution is going to work it's...

Poppy Yates: Wait, that's what this is about? Your revolution?

Joe Bishop: Of... course...

What else would it be about?

Poppy Yates: Get out.

Joe Bishop: Please, I need you.

She always seems to find a way to say the last thing I want to hear.

This time...

She did it by saying nothing at all.

She just motioned for me to leave, and I obliged.

Well that went well.

The truth is, I need Poppy Yates. I need to have a way of spreading my message to the WFWF fans. I need an outlet for my frustration and my anger. And... I suppose... I need her support too. I need somebody who cares, somebody to question me, somebody to be there when things are at their worst. Much as her presence has been a near constant source of annoyance these last few months, she's helped to keep me focused on the task at hand.

She's a big part of getting me here.

I need her.

But I need the WFWF World Championship more.

The revolution won't be complete when I make David Brennan tap out, or pin his shoulders to the mat, in that ring. I don't need Poppy Yates just to write the headline and then boom revolution completed. The revolution has only just begun, and there's no case for saying David Brennan is the enemy that needs to be vanquished.

The WFWF is a long way from changing in the way I want it to, and yes I'll need Poppy to help communicate my message to as many people as possible.

But what will communicate that message, better than anything, is standing tall when Ultimate Supremacy comes to a close, the WFWF World Champion. That's the single biggest propaganda victory I could ever have, and that's what I need, to make sure, this sport's future is bright.

That has to be my focus.

---

Don't you know it's gonna be alright.
I gotta tell you man, I'm so f***ing excited for this one. I really am.

Because, from the moment Lila Sleater set this whole thing up, this is what I've wanted. This is the scenario I've been hoping for, that I've been dreaming of as I've put every ounce of myself into taking on everyone they've put in front of me. This is what it's all been about.

The chance to step into that ring with one of the best wrestlers in the world, one of the few true top tier wrestlers I haven't been able to face, the chance to show these WFWF fans, who for too long have accepted the mediocrity they've been served up, what a real wrestling match is.

You might not give a s*** about what I'm trying to do here, about my vision for a better WFWF. About the revolution I want.

But man, we both know that you're gonna go out there and you're gonna leave everything in that ring. You are going to give everything you have to try and get that win. Not because you care about a leather strap, or because you want to be on the posters, or because you want the perks that come with it.

But because, just like me, you want to be the best.

It's not about proving it to anyone, to those close to you, to the people who for years have told you and I that we are hangers on. Feeding off of Drakz or Kyzer or Trace, getting by on their reputations. It's not about proving to those people who time and time again have said we're not ready for that shot, that we should be happy wwatching Cameron Stone and Yukio Blaze in SuperBrawl main events while we've been stealing the f***ing show, that they're wrong.

It's not about showing these WFWF fans that they've spent a good five years overlooking both of us, that they've labelled us bottlers, chokers, nearly men, and that they were dead wrong.

It's not about that. Because frankly, I know that, on the rare occasion I listened to those voices, it was because I needed a good chuckle.

And I'm pretty damn certain that you wouldn't have earned your place in this main event of all main events, if it wasn't true of you too.

We have scraped and clawed our way out of other mens shadows to get here. And the reason we've done it?

The reason I've done it?

It's always been about proving it...

To me.

Proving to myself, that I was right to keep going. To keep throwing myself into that squared circle despite all the pain and suffering I've endured inside it.

It's been about making sure that I can look myself in the mirror, and know that all those times I told myself, 'get back in that ring, come back stronger', that it was worth doing it. That all the times I told myself I could the best wrestler in the world, I wasn't deluding myself, I was setting an achievable target.

There's not many WFWF wrestlers I could prove it by beating. Because too often, real talent has slipped through the cracks here. Not been picked up. People have been pushed down.

But you Dave, you've done exactly what I've done. Every time you've been pushed down, you've come straight back up again and shoved back harder.

That's why you're here. Because you, you're one of the best wrestlers in the world.

In fact, I reckon you're probably the second best there is. And that's not a title I'd throw around willy nilly. You really are that good. And I'm sure that, because it's the type of guy you are, you'll hear that as a challenge.

And you know what, I'm glad. I'm glad that's going to motivate you to come at me with even more.

The truth is man, whether you like it or not, care or not, think I'm just flapping a load of old s*** right now.

You're as much a part of this revolution as I am. You're as much a revolutionary as anyone.

Because you step into that ring night after night and you give everything you have to prove that you're better than the guy you're in there with. You don't feel the need to look for shortcuts, certainly not of late. You don't look for excuses when you lo... well let's face it right now, you don't lose. Nor do I, and I don't intend to start at Ultimate Supremacy. But see, I've got this good feeling, that after all is said and done, you won't be looking for an excuse. You won't be moaning or whining about being beaten in that ring for the first time in a long long time.

You'll just get straight back up, and you'll fight your way back into that ring with me. Back into contention for my WFWF World Championship.

That's what this whole f***ing revolution is about.

Getting people like you, like me, in that ring together, and letting them just throw everything they have at each other. Put on classic wrestling matches every single night. Getting people who won't cheat to win, but who'll respond to defeat, by fighting every single doubter to get their second chance, and take it when it comes.

That's the sort of guy you are. The sort of competitor you are.

That's the sort of wrestler I want to be facing for the WFWF World Championship.

That's the sort of wrestler I want every member of this roster to be.

Do I think that my commitment to that goal is going to help give me that little bit extra when all is said and done? Yes. Do I think that the extra importance this match has for me, will give me that push I need to get over the line? Yes.

But do I think it's going to be anything other than the biggest challenge I've had in a WFWF ring? In any wrestling ring?

Of course not.

You deserve to be here. And you don't need me to tell you that, and I don't need any f***er to tell me I deserve to be here either. Because unlike so many men who've gone toe to toe for that title.

We earned our place in this match.

We earned our shot, by getting back up time and time again and forcing our way into this position in spite of everyone trying to hold us back.

And the loser, here? They're not gonna suffer too much. Because we've both got that mentality, that drive, to get back up and right that wrong.

I've spent hour after hour watching tape of just about every match you've had. I've talked with guys you've bested. I've seen you bulldoze through just about every single body they've put in front of you since you came back.

I've seen you win the International Championship.

I've seen you win the Tag Team Championships.

I've seen you pin Drakz's shoulders to the mat 1...2...3.

And after all of that, after seeing you prove time and time again just how f***ing good you are in that ring.

Well, I'll admit, I'm impressed.

I'll admit, that I like to think I could keep pushing for this revolution, and say that I am proud to be wrestling in a promotion that has David Brennan as its World Champion. And yeah, I'd be doing everything in my power, to earn a shot at winning it from you, but I trust that you'd do the right thing and defend that belt like a true champion. To be the type of champion that neither Drakz or Michael Kyzer could ever claim to have been.

You've proved time and time again that you have everything that a real champion needs. Everything that so many WFWF World Champions have lacked. You've proved that, unlike many who inhabit it, unlike the people who got you into it, you belong in the Hall Of Fame.

And yet...

There's still one reason I'm having a tough time visualising you standing tall in the middle of that ring, lifting the WFWF World Championship high in the air. There's one reason I'm struggling to picture you proving that you're the best. Just one reason, I can't see you earning the right to shape the WFWF's future...

You ain't me.


OOC: You know you're too tired to be writing when you type out sett'll instead of settle, I figure that one was impressive enough to note. Apologise for any others I didn't catch, hopefully it's not too full of them. It's been a real long week and it's just nice to have this done and not have to worry about it any more, even though I'm not at all sure how I feel about it yet. Big thanks to King Richius for letting me use Frank. Really glad to have got to face Brennan, and hopefully we can do it again at some point with a proper feud going into it.