Post by Metro:PRO™ on Nov 16, 2014 21:12:07 GMT
INT. JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER - SUNDAY EVENING
Our scene opens inside of the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City. MetroPRO color commentator IAN WRIGHT and stand-in commentator DANNY DENVILLE sit at the broadcast booth against the backdrop of an empty area-- with the unoccupied ring looming in the background as a sign of things to come.
Something is amiss. At first glance, the energy level of our broadcast team is deflated. Is it a lack of chemistry thing? No. Is it a lack of interest? No. Something else is going.
DANNY DENVILLE: Folks, Danny Denville and I'm sitting in tonight for Jack "The Janitor" Cameron. Along side me is "Righteous" Ian Wright, and we are at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City for a special edition of MetroPRO. This is Selection Sunday. One week from this evening, in the ring behind us, MetroPRO kicks off its inaugural event. Right now, in a press room inside this very building, co-owners Mort Goodman and Marty Sunshine are getting ready to make their selections for the first card. However, folks, we have breaking news of an urgent nature that we need to report to you.
Ian Wright shakes his head in disgust.
IAN WRIGHT: A few short hours ago, Carter Hayes was conducting an interview with our very own Meadow Leigh, and he suffered injuries following an attack by three wrestlers on the MetroPRO roster. We are going to bring you footage from the altercation now.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER - BACKSTAGE AREA - ONE HOUR EARLIER
We pick up, via prerecorded footage, in the backstage area. MetroPRO interviewer MEADOW LEIGH stands beside "CRYBABY" CARTER HAYES.
MEADOW LEIGH: Standing beside me right now is MetroPRO star and protege to one of the co-owners of this organization, "Crybaby" Carter Hayes. Carter, there is a lot of excitement in the air-- but a lot of tension as well. Can you give us an idea of what is going on in your head right now. How do you feel?
CARTER: Meadow, right now I'm feeling liked a marked man. Kodi Jackson, Lora Shaw, Warren Shaw, 8-Ball, Dennis Driver-- they've all publicly denounced me as public enemy number one. Add on top of that the fact that we have a sociopath like Mart Sunshine in pow--
Suddenly, Carter is ambushed from behind by a massive forearm to the back of the head, courtesy of Jack Owyns, which sends Carter toppling to the cold floor, and Meadow Leigh fleeing for help. No sooner does Carter hit the floor than he is mean with an onslaught of brutal kicks and punches courtesy of Jack Owyns, Kodi Jackson, and Vladimir Vitsnevsky. Carter is on the ground trying to cover up, but it is to no avail. It is only after the Crybaby is left motionless, holding his right forearm, that the ruthless trio depart.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER - ARENA AREA - BACK LIVE
We're back with Ian Wright and a somber Danny Denville
DANNY DENVILLE: Carter Hayes has been taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he is undergoing observation. His best friend and our regular color commentator Jack Cameron is with him. We shall keep you posted if and when we receive more information.
IAN WRIGHT: I don't even know what to say about all of this. If this was some ploy on the part of Marty Sunshine to throw Mort Goodman off his game for selection Sunday, it just may very well have worked. Here's footage from the meet and greet area from earlier, from when Mort received the disturbing news.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - MEET AND GREET AREA - EARLIER
Mort Goodman steps up to the podium as cameras begin to flash.
MORT: Ladies and gentlemen, I believe in pure wrestling. I admire the technique and skill of our competitors above all else. With that in mind, I would like to present to you a man that I hand-picked to bring aboard here at Metro:PRO Wrestling. This man is embodies the vision I had for this company. He is former IWA talent, Weston Alexander!
"Frontline" by Pillar plays through the speakers in more of an undertone for the press conference as Weston steps out and walks up the stairs. Wearing a pair of tight blue jeans and a maroon pinstripe shirt. He approaches Mort with a smile as Mort reflects the same smile. They shake hands authentically for a moment before turning to the press with their hands still locked in a handshake. Cameras flash to comemmorate the moment before Mort steps aside and allows Weston to step up to the podium. He smiles politely as he looks out to the crowd.
WESTON: You'll have to forgive me as I'm not used to public speaking. First, I'd like to thank Mr. Goodman for seeking me out and signing me to this blooming company. I'm proud to be an integral part of the inception of this company. The IWA closed its doors but, as they say, when one door closes, another door opens. So... I believe this is the part where you ask me questions.
MAN: Ryan Jefferson, ESPN.com. When we last saw you, you were gearing up for action to see who would become the first IWA National Champion but the company folded before you got that opportunity. Do you feel like Metro:PRO should compensate you for that lost opportunity or do you feel like the Newman family owes you some sort of consolation?
WESTON: There are legal avenues I could investigate against the Newman family. I've been advised by my legal team regarding such matters, but it's not something I'm interested in. The Newman family did everything they could with what the Redding family handed down to them. It just wasn't enough. Losing a business is enough. Legal recompense is just adding insult to injury at that point. As far as Mort and Marty owing me anything, they didn't inherit the Newman family's debt. I will earn my own opportunities, blaze my own trail I believe is the expression I've heard that fits, and hopefully have plenty of success here.
WOMAN: Angela Ward, Bleacher Report. From what we've seen publicly, you declared Carter Hayes as an adversary. Could you elaborate a bit on that? I know that you and he had some back and forth leading up to the match that wasn't for the National Title. Did he say something that upset you or made you want to target him?
WESTON: Absolutely not. I was not involved in the creation of my statistical profile that was presented upon my entrance into Metro:PRO. That was handled by my public relations agency and Metro:PRO's public relations team. I believe that the profile stated my lack of dislike for him, as a matter of fact. I have great respect for Carter Hayes. His talent is unquestionable as was his undefeated record in IWA. He's impressive. I plan to be more impressive. That's as far as that goes.
VOICE: This is why I'm better suited to run this company than you are, Mort.
Marty Sunshine steps up onto the stage. Mort adjusts to see and locks eyes with Marty.
MORT: Marty, please. This is Weston's time to speak with the media.
MARTY: And he's done such a wonderful job.
Sensing the sarcasm in his voice, Mort stands and positions himself closer to Marty.
MORT: If you have something you want to discuss, we can do so privately.
MARTY: This is the perfect time to discuss this. I mean, look at Weston.
Weston looks curiously at Marty Sunshine.
MARTY: He's not marketable! Metro:PRO needs excitement! They need entertainment! Sure, Weston can wrestle, but he cannot entertain! The people want to see death-defying moves! They want to see outrageous stipulations, personal vendettas. You can't market a robot!
WESTON: I assure you I am a human. My biological functions all support that.
MARTY: See what I mean?
MORT: Fans want to see wrestling. This isn't a cartoon or an action movie, Marty. This is wrestling. Wrestling fans will appreciate Weston's superb technique and arsenal of submission holds.
MARTY: Fashion is what catches the eye first, not function.
WESTON: I'm not a professional stylist but I do believe my outfit is very fashionable.
A few woos are heard from female members of the crowd causing Weston to smile weakly. He looks back to Marty.
MARTY: This is useless.
MORT: I'm not done with you! Get back here!
Marty walks out of view as Mort storms after him, his anger very apparent. Weston looks in the direction they left for a few moments before looking back to the press.
WESTON: Thank you, everyone. That's all the time I have. Enjoy the rest of the show!
Weston smiles and waves as cameras continue flashing. Weston walks down the steps and to the back.
Meanwhile, a staff member steps into the frame and quickly moves toward Mort, whispering in his ear The camera slowly zooms in toward Mort's expression, which changes-- he is boiling. Mort storms off, punching he wall on his way off the scene.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST BOOTH - BACK TO PRESENT
We are back with our commentators, Ian Wright and Danny Danville, at the broadcast boot. It remains a somber scene.
DANNY DENVILLE: While we are at it folks, we want to send our thoughts and prayers out to former IWA champion Travis Black, who earlier this week suffered a gunshot wounds, but remains in stable condition. We wish him a speedy recovery.
IAN WRIGHT: Well Travis Black is one tough dude and would make a fine addition to the MetroPRO roster.
Danny touches his earpiece to signify that he is receiving word of something.
DANNY DENVILLE: Folks, we're getting word that something is going down inside the conference room where tonight's press conference is supposed to be taking place. We bring you there now live.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER - PRESS CONFERENCE ROOM - CONTINUOUS
We pick up inside the large conference room, where a long table, draped with a purple MetroPRO banner, sits on a a stage, facing a sea of chairs. The press has not yet been let in, but there is a flurry of activity as MORT GOODMAN is on the stage, mounting MARTY SUNSHINE, reigning down fist after first into the head of his feisty adversary.
MetroPRO staff are quick to grab hold of Mort, pulling him off of Marty. As Sunshine rises, additional staff grab hold of him to keep him from lunging at Mort.
MORT: You son of a bitch! I will tear your fucking eyes out and shove them up your ass!
MARTY: Bring it on, Goodman! I'll send you to Mount Sinai just like your boy!
Suddenly, we hear a voice-- a stern, no-nonsense voice, the volume of which carries through the conference room. It is the voice of arbitrator BARNEY BRADSHAW.
BARNEY: Enough!
He takes command of the room, as the staff let go of the warring co-owners.
BARNEY: Listen, you two idiots-- we have a sea of press, fans, and employees just outside of those doors, and you're in here acting like it's your first fucking day on the schoolyard. Now, I want professionalism-- do I make myself clear?
MORT: But he--
BARNEY: Do I make myself clear, Mort?
Mort is silent. Barney looks to Marty
BARNEY: Now as for you, that shit you pulled with Carter--
MARTY: I didn't do anyth--
BARNEY: Don't you interrupt me when I'm talking, you pubic-haired prick. And don't give me any bullshit that you had nothing to do with what took place an hour ago. You think I was born fucking yesterday? There are gonna be repercussions for the assault. Somebody is getting punished, and I'll deal with that next week. For now, we've got a press conference to tend to.
Barney turns to leave, but then remembers something, and turns back toward Marty.
BARNEY: Oh, and Marty, by the way-- that little stunt tonight cost you your first pick in the card selection. Mort, you get the first two picks. Now kiss and make up. You can go back to beating the shit out of each other at the end of the night.
Barney walks out.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST BOOTH - EMPTY ARENA AREA - CONTINUOUS
We're back with Ian Wright and Danny Denville, who have been soaking in the events in real time, along with us.
IAN WRIGHT: Well there you have folks. Mort gets a little bit of justice with the assurance that somebody from the assault upon Carter Hayes will be punished. Perhaps more significant, whatever involvement Marty Sunshine had in the attack has cost him, as Mort Goodman will be making the first two picks tonight to decide the lineup for the first official Killshot Card next Sunday.
DANNY DENVILLE: Folks, the conference will be starting shortly, as the press begin to fill the room. In the meantime, we're gonna take you back stage to see if we can catch up with some of the MetroPRO superstars.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - FAN MEET AND GREET CONFERENCE ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Morgan could hardly believe her eyes, and she was someone who relied on illusions and trickery for a living. Everything in the past few days had been so surreal, so unbelievable that all she wanted to do was pinch herself just to make sure it was happening. But she didn’t have to. She was well aware of where she was, and she had Marty Sunshine to thank. Whether or not he saw potential in her or he was just a fan of women who could make things disappear remained to be seen.
Regardless, Morgan le Faye was at the contract signing, feeling the atmosphere in the air shared by her fellow people here to make a show of inking their name to legal binding paper. Since her initial signing, behind the scenes, she made no effort to hide whose team she played for.
She was going to have to make a speech, wasn’t she? Make a good first impression to both her co-workers and the eagerly anticipating fans? Perhaps not a speech. Morgan, even here and now amongst her fellow MetroPRO peers, was still a performer. Still a magician at heart.
Morgan le Faye waited patiently for her moment in the sun, her time to sign her name, to take the pictures, to shake the hands. She was still dressed as if she was here to put on a magical act, top hat and all. Morgan, with a smile fitting one speaking to an audience, spoke.
MORGAN: First off, I’d like to thank Mr. Marty Sunshine for giving me this opportunity. I couldn’t be here without his eye for talent, and he’s not going to regret this.
Morgan pauses to give Marty some polite applause, regardless of whether or not anyone joins in.
MORGAN: I’m excited to be a part of this promising company, and definitely excited to finally have a steady source of income.
Pause for laughter.
MORGAN: Some of you out there might think it odd for someone like me to stand in the same place as more…expected and known people like Damian Cole or Jack Owyns. But that’s to be expected, I guess. After all, what you’ve heard about me is true. Yes, I am a magician by trade. I don’t think that should matter in this business. You allow nail polish peddlers and wannabe super heroes into this place, a magician isn’t that unusual. I’d like to state, for the record, that just because I’m signing with MetroPRO doesn’t mean I’m not available for parties and events. Miss Morgan le Faye, Mistress of Magic is still accepting booking for all your events. ZVARRI!
Morgan exclaims and raises both of her hands in the air, kicking back her right foot and tilting her head to the left. She’s so comfortable doing this pose that one could reasonably assume she does it often in her magic act, the way some might use abracadabra.
MORGAN: I look forward to showing you all the wonderment of magic in all of its glory. Speaking of, how about a quick trick for you all?
Morgan looks around at those in attendance, particularly at her fellow roster members, gauging them for a reaction, but not really caring if they approve or don’t. Morgan removes her hat and shows it off, showing how nothing is inside of it.
MORGAN: As you can see, there’s nothing in this hat, and nothing up my sleeves.
Morgan shows her sleeves. They are empty. Morgan grabs a pen from the table set up, showing that off as well. A normal, ball point pen. Morgan drops the pen into her hat and places the hat on top of her head.
MORGAN: Problem. I’m supposed to sign this contract, but there’s no pen to be found. What am I to do?
Morgan pouts her lips and places her index finger on her chin, deep in thought. Or pretending to be. Morgan then snaps her finger and smiles.
MORGAN: ZVARRI!
Morgan claps her hands together and in the palm of her right hand appears the same pen from her hat. She twirls it in between her fingers, smiling, waiting for any applause at the feat of magic on display.
MORGAN: Magic, ladies and gentlemen!
Morgan smiles and finally approaches the contract with her name on it. With one final smile towards the crowd, Morgan leans forward and puts pen to ink, signing her name officially.
With her name down, she looks once more towards those around her.
MORGAN: And with that, Miss Morgan le Faye, Mistress of Magic is officially part of MetroPRO! Bringing you all magic, week after week! ZVARRI!
Morgan takes a bow, removing and tipping her hat in the bow gesture as well. One last wave and smile for the lights of cameras and Morgan returns to her seat, letting the others participating sign their names. The show must go on, after all. And now she was part of the act.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BACKSTAGE AREA - CONTINUOUS
The cameras zoom in on a conversation that's going on backstage. Weston Alexander and one of Metro:PRO's technicians are seemingly having a casual conversation.
WESTON: The key is to limit your refined sugars and maximize the amount of protein you eat while minimizing calories. Protein and sugar are two compounds high in calories so you want to make sure you're careful about what you put into your system.
TECH: What about fruits?
WESTON: Fruits are good, but in low amounts. Though healthy, the natural sugars boost the caloric content and thus increase your calorie intake for the day.
TECH: What if I just eliminate sugar entirely?
WESTON: This is a terrible plan. Your body uses sugar to keep its energy high. Too much sugar can obviously lead to a crash, but carbs in slow, steady doses are critical in keeping you functional and awake. Whole grains are perfect in this regard. While the grains turn to sugar, they slowly let it enter your bloodstream. By doing so, you can have that steady energy instead of the jittery energy. It's much better--
Ravyn Nightshade then walks by, stopping Weston in mid-sentence. She is oblivious to the pair of them standing there but Weston quickly takes notice. His expression is one of amazement as he watches her pass by and continue down the hallway. The technician looks down the hall and back at Weston several times.
TECH: Are... you alright?
WESTON: My goodness... Who was that?
TECH: That's Ravyn Nightshade. She calls herself the Huntress.
WESTON: So that's Ravyn...
The technician laughs a bit causing Weston to place his attention back on him.
WESTON: I'm sorry?
TECH: No, it's just... You said, "so that's Ravyn," which immediately made me think, "That's So Raven."
Weston continues to look at him blankly.
TECH: You know... Like the television show?
WESTON: I'm sorry. I'm not familiar with this television show.
TECH: It's a show about a girl who...
Weston appears to be entirely uninterested.
TECH: You know what, nevermind. Not important.
WESTON: So what kind of woman is Ravyn?
TECH: I...
The technician trails off as he seems conflicted on how he should proceed.
TECH: She's not known to be the nicest person.
WESTON: Ah. Struck out with her yourself?
TECH: No, no. I have a wife and two children at home.
WESTON: I'm sorry to hear that.
TECH: Sorry? ... Nevermind, not important. She's a bit ill-tempered if you bother her without reason. She doesn't strike me as the kind of person who enjoys casual conversation.
WESTON: Excellent. No need to exchange pleasantries then.
TECH: Seriously, I wouldn't recommend trying to approach her.
Weston: I will take your recommendation under advisement. In the mean time, I must prepare to meet the press. We'll talk later perhaps.
Weston nods at him politely as he turns to walk off. He stops for a moment to look in the direction that Ravyn walked off in and smiles slightly before turning and walking off in the opposite direction.Fruits are good, but in low amounts. Though healthy, the natural sugars boost the caloric content and thus increase your calorie intake for the day.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BACKSTAGE AREA (ELSEWHERE) - CONTINUOUS
A significant amount of time had passed since we had seen ANYA LEIGH-CASTELLO take an active role within the wrestling industry. However, the rookie wrestler was now about to make her return and currently, she was opting to hang around the backstage area of the arena she would be spending a lot more time in these days. She currently wasn’t achieving a lot, however, as she was perching on the edge of a crate that was sat against one of the walls in the hallway, staring down at the screen on her phone.
Suddenly a familiar face to Anya-Leigh came bouncing up in front of her; it was ALLYANA RIVERA. The pair had known each other from their time in a previous company and had become friends before the company closed. The bubbly young wrestler greeted Anya-Leigh with a smile.
ALLYANA RIVERA: Hey stranger! How have you been?
Finally dragging her gaze up from her phone, Anya-Leigh can’t help but smile.
ANYA-LEIGH CASTELLO: Well, well, well, look who it is!
She said as she beamed a smile to her friend.
ANYA-LEIGH CASTELLO: Honestly, I’ve been brilliant! I can’t say I’ve been achieving a lot during my time away from the ring but that’s why I’m thrilled to be back… it’s about time! I heard you had signed a contract here as well and it’s great to see you again! How have you been?
Allyana nodded and beamed back at Anya-Leigh.
ALLYANA RIVERA: I sure have!
She then shrugged her shoulders lightly.
ALLYANA RIVERA: To be honest, I’ve not been achieving much either since the last time we saw each other. Went back home, trained hard and now I’m back more ready than ever!
Allyana then stopped with her excited jitters and put on a more serious face.
ALLYANA RIVERA: Did you get my email? What do you think of the idea?
Anya-Leigh nodded her head as an initial response.
ANYA-LEIGH CASTELLO: I did indeed. Honestly, I’m so stoked to have read that particular message when I did… I was uncertain about my position here or even if it was wise to return but now, I think it would be an incredible career move for the two of us to join forces. So of course, if you’re still up for it, then so am I!
Allyana clapped her hands together quickly and enthusiastically; she found it difficult to contain her excitement at times.
ALLYANA RIVERA: Of course! I think it will be an amazing move going forward and I think right here is the place to do it!
Just at that moment a member of the backstage staff walked by, it was apparent from their approach that they had been eavesdropping on the two girls conversation. It was also clear from the woman’s shirt, which had #TeamMarty printed on the front, where her allegiances lay.
STAFF MEMBER: You can’t be serious? Do you really think you two stand a chance at going anywhere here? There’s being positive and then there’s just plain delusional. Why don’t you two just click your heels together and think of home, huh?
Anya-Leigh let out a soft sigh as the staff member began to wander off.
ANYA-LEIGH CASTELLO: Looks like we’re going to have a lot of people to prove wrong around here…
Allyana just looked around blankly, clearly affected by the staff member’s comments.
ALLYANA RIVERA: I think you’re right…”
Suddenly, Mama Rivera came rushing up to the pair, she had witnessed what had just happened and wasn’t impressed by their reactions.
MAMA RIVERA: What is wrong with you two girls? You need to stand up for yourselves! No just letting her walk away and looking sad! Tis’ no good!
Allyana just looked to her mother.
ALLYANA RIVERA: Mama, it’s okay-
Mama Rivera didn’t let her finish.
MAMA RIVERA: No! It not okay, mija! Sometimes to get by in this world you have to be more confident around people like her. It a good thing you girls have me, I help you learn.”
Mama Rivera smiled at the pair and wandered back off to the buffet table where she had come from, leaving them to contemplate what she had said.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST BOOTH - CONTINUOUS
Ian Wright and Danny Denville are looking satisfied by the exchange they have just witnessed.
IAN WRIGHT: Well there you have it-- could we be looking at a new powerhouse for Team Mort within the MetroPRO tag team division?
DANNY DENVILLE: It will be interesting to see how Mort plays this tonight.
IAN WRIGHT: And Marty for that matter. This whole process is like a chess game, and the participants in this particular game know each other so well.
DANNY DENVILLE: Speaking of Mort and Marty, we're gonna to the respective back stage offices of Mort Goodman and Marty Sunshine to get some last words from the owners before we turn to the official press conference for Selection Sunday.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BACK STAGE OFFICE A - CONTINUOUS
Inside of the first backstage office, we find Mort Goodman alongside a very emotional Grace Taylor, visibly shaken by what has already transpired with her fiance, Carter Hayes.
Mort is on his cell phone.
MORT: Okay...okay Jack...no, it's gonna be alright, just keep us posted.
Mort hangs up the phone. He turns toward Grace.
MORT: Carter shattered his ankle.
GRACE: Shattered his ankle? That sounds horrible!
MORT: Gracie, relax-- those were Jack's words. He tends to be a little dramatic, and let's face it-- he's not a doctor.
GRACE: Is he okay?
MORT: He's gonna be out for a while, but Carter's tough. He will be back.
Mort sighs.
MORT: Listen, I know you don't want me playing favorites, but in light of everything that's been going on, I can't let Marty pick your match. He's gonna go for the jugular.
GRACE: Daddy, that's exactly what he wants-- he wants you to protect me so he can sell to the entire roster that I am a protected girl, and that you are corrupt with nepotism. Let him pick whoever he wants from his team-- let him pick the whole team. I'm not going to let Marty Sunshine get the psychological advantage.
Mort puts his head in his hands, clearing conflicted by the choices before him.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BACK STAGE OFFICE B - CONTINUOUS
We now pick up with the office down the hall, where we find Marty Sunshine pacing back and forth, while Priscilla Price sits at a table. He looks pissed off and very troubled.
MARTY: This is bullshit. That bald brute Barney is making my life very difficult, taking away my first selection-- my very first selection! Where the hell is Tony Pham-- he's supposed to be weighing in on these decisions, and he's nowhere to be found!
Marty stops, takes deep breaths to collect himself.
MARTY: Okay, deep breaths-- deep breaths, Marty. Everything is going to be okay.
There's a knock on the door. Marty opens it. Standing there is MetroPRO rookie sensation Angelina Bellini. And much to Marty's surprise, standing with her is her father, Vincent "Vinny" Bellini.
The immediate reaction on Marty's face tell a couple things: first, this is an important, powerful man; and second, Marty is a little uncomfortable with him being there. Nevertheless, Marty, being the showman he is, concocts his biggest smile.
MARTY: Angelina, come in! Look at you, and you brought your father! Vincent, how are you? If I knew you were coming up, I would have booked you a room at the Ritz.
VINCENT: I like my visits to be a surprise, Marty, but thank you for the offer.
Vincent notices Priscilla sitting there.
VINCENT: And who is this gorgeous thing?
Marty lets out an uncomfortable chuckle.
MARTY: Where are my manners, this is Priscilla Price. Priscilla, this is Mr. Vincent Bellini, Angelina's father.
Priscilla stands and smiles, holding out her hand. Vincent Bellini kisses it.
PRISCILLA: Hello, Mr. Bellini, it is a pleasure.
VINCENT: Charmed, my dear.
ANGELINA: This is my old friend, daddy.
Vincent smiles. He turns to Marty.
VINCENT: So Marty, I thought I'd stop by and check out your new promotion. Angelina tells me you have quite the operation here, and that you've been treating her well?
MARTY: Oh yeah. Absolutely. Angelina's gonna be a superstar-- she's a very talented woman.
VINCENT: Well that's good to hear, Marty-- because this wrestling thing, I don't quite get it--
ANGELINA: Daddy!
VINCENT: But clearly it's important to her-- so if it's important to her, it's important to me. You understand, right Marty?
MARTY: Of course.
Vincent smiles, which somewhat breaks the tension.
VINCENT: So we understand each other-- that's good. I'll be looking forward to seeing what opponent you pick for Angelina.
Vincent turns to leave, but before he does so, he shoots another smile at Priscilla.
VINCENT: So long, dear.
Vincent leaves.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST BOOTH - CONTINUOUS
Ian and Danny sit speechless for a moment.
IAN WRIGHT: Wow. Well it seems that our two leaders each have their own stressors going into this selection process, which will get underway momentarily. But first, we go back to MetroPRO correspondent Meadow Leigh, who is backstage with the man who is looking to start a white trash party, Jimmy Kort.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BACKSTAGE AREA - CONTINUOUS
Jimmy Kort is backstage.He's standing by with Medow Leigh and Jimmy likes what he sees. He gives her an up and down and nods his head about her looks. Jimmy has a Dixie bandana holding back what little hair he has. He's wearing a pair of jeans and a white t-shirt that shows off his upper body.
MEADOW LEIGH: Meadow Leigh here folks, and I'm standing by with yet ANOTHER signing here at Metro:Pro. I'm here with Jimmy Kort, a man who has had some success in the squared circle before. Jimmy, welcome to Metro:Pro.
Jimmy strokes his beard/stubble a little bit and smiles, nodding his head.
JIMMY KORT: Thank ya sugah. Ain't you somethin'. Jimmy Kort ain't here to police no more. Those Sheriff days, they're behind me. Those days of givin' out that Southern Justice, that's over too. Ya see Ms. Meadow, I came to a discovery durin' my recent off time.
MEADOW LEIGH: Yeah, Jimmy? And what would that be?
JIMMY KORT: I realized that the only person that's there for ya in the end sug, ya know who it is?
Meadow nods her head. She doesn't know.
JIMMY KORT: It's your damned self. It ain't your Daddy, your Mommy, hell even your damned kids. The only person there for ya when you die, when you take your final breath, even when you close your eyes at night - is yourself.
MEADOW LEIGH: Well that's certainly a hot take, Jimmy.
JIMMY KORT: More than that darlin', it's the way it is now. Jimmy ain't lookin' out for no one but him damn self anymore. He don't give a damn about none a' the people in the crowd, he don't care 'bout none a' them boys in the back, none a' them girls neither.
MEADOW LEIGH: Alright, Jimmy. Seems like you're gonna be a bit of a loner in the locker room.
JIMMY KORT: I mean, you Ms. Meadow, Jimmy might give a damn 'bout you. He just might.
Meadow doesn't know if he's being genuine or not. She feigns a smile.
JIMMY KORT: And I ain't said I wanna be a loner, darlin'. All I'm sayin' is that I'm looking out for me, myself, n' I before another damn soul. Ya see I been burnt before. N' I ain't gonna be burnt again.
MEADOW LEIGH: Well there you have it, folks. Jimmy Kort, one of our new signings.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST AREA - CONTINUOUS
Back with Ian Wright and Danny Denville at the broadcast booth, the tenor has picked up.
DANNY DENVILLE: Folks, right now you are in for a real treat-- and that treat comes by way of the newly signed husband and wife team of Lora and Warren Shaw. While they could not be hear tonight, they have put together a little package for us. Let's take a look.
CUT TO:
VIDEO FEED - RECORDING STUDIO
The cameras break away from the live action at ringside for a moment, having detected a feed transmission from one of the large screens suspended above the entrance stage.
Instantly visible is the blonde fighter-come-singer, Lora Shaw; who adorns a set of noise-cancelling head phones and stands in front of an expensive microphone; the kind you'd see within a recording studio.
Upon closer inspection, that's exactly where she is.
Her eyes are closed, suggesting that she's composing herself for another scintillating vocal performance. Instrumental music is piped through the head phones, allowing her to follow the beat accordingly. Her husband Warren stands outside the booth, watching on longingly, with a small gathering of sound technicians in their seats in front of him, adjusting the levels.
Listen up New York City, 'cause we're about to start a party,
if you look real close,
you will see the host,
isn't Mort, oh no – it's Marty,
Mr Goodman is old and grey, raining on your world and mine,
but have no fear,
the Shaw's are here,
all because of Mr Sunshine!
Oh Mort, you suck! You just plain suck!
You're the Knicks and we're the Giants,
Oh Mort, you suck! You just plain suck!
Which is why we're Sunshine's clients.
Warren nods his head enthusiastically to the lyrics; however the technicians that surround him look pained by the flat, screechy performance from the tone-deaf siren. Lora – encapsulated by her song – keeps her eyes closed and continues.
Goodman wants to bore you, with his snooze-fest wrestling,
what he calls “pure”,
smells like manure,
it'll really stink up the ring,
You would rather watch paint dry, than watch his people fight,
but when Marty Sunshine,
and his stars combine,
together we brighten your night!
Oh Mort, you suck! You just plain suck!
You're The Bronx and we're Lennox Hill,
Oh Mort, you suck! You just plain suck!
You suck and you always will!
With that, the instrumental track stops prematurely, as a result of one technician's tolerance being taken beyond the brink. Lora stops and looks puzzled within the booth, throwing a quizzical stare towards the team through the glass – an expression mirrored by her husband, Warren.
WARREN: Hey! Why are we stopping?
Lora removes her head phones and heads directly for the studio exit, motioning towards the team in the next room.
TECHNICIAN: I'm sorry, man – but that was awful. My ears are bleeding into my brain, to the point where I think I can taste it. Yeah, I can. Right in the back of my throat. It tastes like pennies.
Warren looks annoyed.
WARREN: Quick question. Have you ever felt a man's knee straight into your face?
The other technicians squirm and shift uncomfortably in their seats.
TECHNICIAN: Uh...
WARREN: Because if you don't tell her how fantastic she was, you're going to feel it.
In that moment, the tension in the studio is broken as Lora enters the room, positively bursting with enthusiasm at her performance. She's beaming, although her smile – while radiant – isn't infectious.
LORA: Well?! Was I amazing or what?!”
An awkward silence ensues, prompting Warren to place his hands on the shoulders of the technician, squeezing down upon them forcefully.
TECHNICIAN: YOU... You were fantastic!
The other men in the room give her an obligatory round of applause, which she swats away coyly with her hands.
LORA: Oh stop!
Warren approaches her with outstretched arms.
WARREN: Darling, you were fabulous! The guys wanted to hear so much more from you but unfortunately there's some problems with the wiring. The recording equipment is fried.
The blonde buys the story and shrugs.
LORA: Oh well. Do you think I got the message across okay though?
Warren nods and turns to the technicians, glaring at them to offer encouragement. They nod like puppets.
TECHNICIAN: Oh.. Oh yeah, totally. Mort Goodman sucks. Loud and clear.”
Lora smiles and nestles into her husband, delighted with the feedback.
LORA: See – this guy! This guy gets it!
WARREN: Gentlemen, thank you for your time. Same time next week?
Silence.
WARREN: Good! We look forward to it!
The Shaw's exit the sound studio – bringing a halt to the transmission.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST AREA - CONTINUOUS
As the Shaw feed cuts back to our live broadcast, we catch a jaw-dropped Ian Wright and Danny Denville.
IAN: I'm-- I'm not quite sure what to say about that. I'm-- I'm speechless.
DANNY: Unfortunately, Lora Shaw was not speechless. Folks, we're gonna have to cut away to backstage to give us a moment or two to recuperate. Let's bring you back to backstage, where we're catching up with a man that you, Ian, have a lot of experience with-- and a man that Mort Goodman has placed a lot of confidence in, Will Levon.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BACKSTAGE AREA - CONTINUOUS
Several months had passed since we had seen the likes of Will Levon as an active part of the wrestling world but he opted to make the bold move to step back into it, much to the surprise of even himself. In a pre-recorded scene, we see William Levon sat somewhere just in the backstage area of the venue in front of just a plain backdrop.
WILL LEVON: Not everybody around here will know who I am... those same people probably won't care. Doesn't matter, I'll introduce myself anyway. Sup? My name is Will Levon. Former champion in both Force 1 and IWA. And with the same respects, there will be people interested in hearing my story and there will be people who couldn't give a shit."
"Supposing people do want to know, then I'll go into a bit of detail here. Last the world saw me in this industry, I quit my job and broke up with my then-girlfriend, the woman I loved, Alice Autumn. I kinda gave up all the things that meant the world to me. Shit got to me and I do regret all of those previous actions. I just didn't handle my failing career well. But I'm starting over completely. So why did I decide to come back? Why did I decide to step back into the ring after claiming I was done with this industry? Eh. I guess I just can't stay away."
He said with a shrug of his shoulders.
WILL LEVON: Some can say straight away that this is going to be a mistake and that everything is just going to spiral out of control the same way it did last time. But the optimist in me is sayin' otherwise. This time, I got this. Most just sees me as this whiny bitch who runs away from problems rather than face them head on. Think what you want but as always, I'm out to prove people wrong, even though I'm done with caring too much about others. This time, things are going to be different and that's because I've got the support."
"That's one of the many reasons I'm here and why I'm siding with Mort Goodman... because he's just that... a good man. There was once a time he was the only person in the world who believed in me and stated that he thought I actually had potential. I've put all the negativity behind me so I'm here to fight and work with a man I have a lot of respect for. He believes in me to be on his side and I'm not gonna let him or myself down this time."
Finishing with a confident nod of his head, the scene faded out.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST AREA - CONTINUOUS
IAN: Let me say this about Will Levon, I've tagged with him and I've gone to war with him, and the man can fight. With the backing of Mort Goodman and all the support that comes with that, I'd expect big things from Levon here in MetroPRO..
DANNY: Well there you have it folks, so many fighters are on hand tonight in eager anticipation of who they will be matches up against next week at the very first Killshot, and now is the time to find out just what those match-ups look like, as we take you to the press conference.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - PRESS CONFERENCE - CONTINUOUS
Here we are, inside the press conference, the same conference room where earlier, Barney Bradshaw had to lay down the law with Mort and Marty, only this time the conference room is packed with fans, wrestlers and reports, and the place is abuzz.
Marty sits to the right of the press conference table, Priscilla Price seated beside him. On the left side of the table sits Mort Goodman with his daughter, Grace Taylor. Both men appear surly, and have papers scattered about them-- notes, charts, statistics-- all the information they have deemed pertinent to make the appropriate matches this evening.
Seated between the two sides is the man who is increasingly being called upon to maintain order-- "The Arbitrator" Barney Bradshaw. His eyes are heavy, he never smiles. He speaks in such a matter-of-fact tone that the man looks completely unimpressed with the mess that the two lawyers are making
BARNEY: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Selection Sunday, where our esteemed leaders are going make their picks for the first even Killshot, scheduled for next Sunday, November 23, 2014, right here at the Jacob Javits Center. For those wondering who I am, my name is Barney Bradshaw, and I have been jointly selected by Mort Goodman and Marty Sunshine to arbitrate and rule on any issues over which they cannot agree-- which, as it turns out, seems to be pretty much everything.
The tension between Mort and Marty is palpable, as they fix hard stares at one another.
BARNEY: Now before we get started, there are a few housekeeping issues. First, this initial card will feature six first round title tournament matches, two for each of the vacant titles- the Empire Title, the Pure Title and the Tag Team Title. Now I want everyone out there to bear in mind that the first round will continue the following week, so for many of those wrestlers that are not afforded an opportunity to partake in a title tournament-- there's always the next week.
Barney takes a sip of water, turns his head toward Marty, and shakes his head, in frustration over what must follow.
BARNEY: Now originally, both Mort and Marty were each scheduled to pick one match for the respective title tournaments. Well, that's changed. As a result of an altercation that occurred a couple hours ago, that Marty may or may not have had something to do with-- but who are we kidding, he did-- Marty has forfeited his first selection, as well as his right to select a match for the first round of the Pure Title tournament, both of which will go to Mort. If Marty is on his best behavior for the next week, perhaps he will have his full voting privileges reinstated for the following week.
Barney looks to Mort, and then to Marty, and then back to Mort.
BARNEY: Mort, the floor is yours-- you get the first two picks.
Mort shuffles through his papers. He pulls the microphone fixed on the table in front of him closer, clears his throat. He is about to announce his first match, but then pauses and turns to Grace, to confide in her. She shakes her head. Mort looks displeased. He turns again to to the mic.
MORT: Our first selection will be a tournament match for the pure title. It wil pit the Coast to Coast Cover Girl Liz Smalls against Joke-- I mean, Jack-- Jack Owyns.
V. 
VOICE: Thankies!
MORT: And the second match will be part of the tag team title tournament, and will feature Anya Leigh Castello and Allyana Rivera against Dennis Driver and Morgan le Faye.
V. 
BARNEY: Marty, it is your turn.
Marty smiles, a twisted, devious smile. He looks across the table toward his counterpart, Mort, who already knows what is coming.
MARTY: My first selection will be a fatal four-way match as part of the Empire Title Tournament, and it will pit Grace Taylor against Kodi Jackson, Vladimir Vishnevsky, and Jimmy Kort.
V. 
V. 
V. 
Mort snarls.
MORT: You sonofabitch.
BARNEY: Mort, knock it off.
MORT: Barney, I'd like a point of clarification-- this match that Marty just announced, it is a fatal fourway match, correct, and not a three-on-one handicap match?
MARTY: Of course.
BARNEY: Your turn, Mort.
Mort is shaken by the news that his daughter has essentially been issued a death sentence.
MORT: Fine. You wanna play like that. My next pick is also part of the Empire Title Tournament. And it will feature Priscilla Price against Will Levon, and Gideon Hazard, and Ravyn Nightshade-- not a handicapped match, but a fatal fourway, of course.
V. 
V. 
V. 
Marty slams his first on the table.
MARTY: This is b--
Barney shoots him a look, and Marty bites his tongue.
Priscilla turns to Marty, panicked.
PRISCILLA: Marty, do something.
Marty is flustered as all eyes turn to him.
MARTY: Uhm, Warren and Lora Shaw versus 8-Ball and Lunar-- tag team qualifier match.
V. 
Mort slouches back in his chair, a self-satisfied grin on his face, as he blurts out:
MORT: Angelina Bellini versus...Damian Cole.
V. 
MARTY: What!?!
MORT: You heard me.
MARTY: Veto!
MORT: You can't veto.
MARTY: I can too and I do-- veto.
BARNEY: There are no vetoes, Marty.
MARTY: No, you don't understand-- this match cannot happen-- her father...
Marty's words trail off.
BARNEY: Your turn, Marty.
Marty is back to shuffling through his papers. He looks stressed. He runs his fingers through his curly hear.
MARTY: Uhm, uhm, Mike Harrison versus Radek Dayz!
V. 
MORT: I'm gonna fix the second Pure Title qualifier with Lava versus Weston Alexander
V. 
Barney looks down at his own notes.
BARNEY: In my estimation, that will fix the final match with Aura Williams versus Dazielle Molaroni.
V. 
Barney checks his watch.
BARNEY: Well folks, there's your card. We'll open it up to the press now for some questions, keeping in mind that my wife is waiting for me at home with a warm meal, and I can't possibly leave these two alone-- so lets make it quick.
Mort and Marty both rise, and make their way over to their respective podiums on the stage-- like a presidential debate.
The hands from the press go up. Barney points to a woman in the front row.
CATHERINE WILSON: Yes, Catherine Wilson, Powerslam Magazine. My question's for Mort. We understand that the Pure Title is a reflection of your vision for the company. What does that title represent to you, and why do you see that as the superior title.
MORT: Thank you, Catherine. This is a wrestling promotion. We are in the business of promoting wrestling-- not circus acts, not magic shows, not contests to see who can wield a weapon the hardest, or who can produce the biggest cheap shot. That is the business that Marty Sunshine is trying to push on you-- but that's not sport, and if it is, it sure isn't wrestling. The Pure Title is precisely what it says-- the indicator of who is the premiere wrestler, nothing more, nothing less.
MARTY: May I interject? Thank you, Mort for boring the hell out of all of us. Look, I know what wrestling is about. I coached Damian Cole to a state championship over Mort's boy Carter. I managed Damian Cole to a Second City Championship using wrestling. I get it. But there is more to this sport than just two guys or girls rolling around on the floor. Don't get me wrong-- I'm all for two girls rolling around on the floor, and in fact I'd pay good money for that-- but if I'm gonna pay for that, I can think of a bunch of other places, particularly in this city, where I can get more bang for my buck so to speak. The Empire Title is the premiere title in MetroPRO because we will test men and women's skill set under the most extreme circumstances. Take Mort's vision of what makes the premiere athlete, give me a bat, and I'll knock that premiere athlete on his ass.
Barney points to another member of the press.
DAN HENDERSON: Dan Henderson, prowrestling.com-- my question is for both Marty and Mort. By my count, twenty wrestlers were given the opportunity for gold tonight by being entered into title tournaments-- eight in the Tag Team division, eight in the Empire division, and four in the Pure Division. However, there were a handful of wrestlers that were left out of the title hunt tonight. What do you say to those wrestlers.
MARTY: Don't blame me-- Mort got the first two picks, and was permitted to select four of the six title matches tonight. And who did the majority of those shots go to? Those who have aligned themselves with team Mort. Who's the corrupt one now? Under a Marty Sunshine regime, title shots will be handed out even-handedly. What do I say to those several wrestlers who were not put into the title hunt? Blame Mort, and come over to Marty, where every day there's sunshine.
MORT: First of all, anyone who refers to their role as a "regime," is an asshole. Second, you have to keep in mind that the fights next week only represent one half of the first round-- one half of the bracket. If twenty wrestlers were afforded title hopes tonight, then twenty more wrestlers will be afforded that same hope next week. So to Damian Cole, Radek Dayz, Mike Harrison, Aura Williams, Dazielle Molaroni,
Angelina Bellini, I say to you-- fight hard next week, because at the conclusion of your first fight here, we will announce the second half of title opportunity, and we want to see your names in those brackets.
EDUARDO GARCIA: Eduardo Garcia, BleacherReport. This question is for both of you-- what do you have to say to those fighters who have not aligned themselves with either of you. What is it that you have to offer them.
Mort shoots a look in the direction of Marty.
MORT: Let me make this point very clear. Marty Sunshine is a crook. He's been adjudicated a crook. I have been his business partner and know how he does business, and I can assure each and every member of this roster that this man does not have your best interests at heart. He is a liar, and a cheat and a fraud. He will tell you what you want to hear, and make you believe he can make it happen, until you have invested your time and your energy and your soul into his cause-- and then he will come up empty. I've seen it happen before, folks. Look, I'm not gonna promise any short cuts, any get rich quick schemes. I can promise that if you work hard, you will be promoted. I can promise you that I have this company's best interests-- this sport's best interests-- at heart. That's what I have to offer.
MARTY: Blah, blah, blah. You know, Mort, you talk a humble game for having a daughter and future son-in-law on the roster. Let me tell you what I have to offer. I'm a success because I know how to gamble, how to take risks, and and how to make those gambles and risks pay off. I don't play it safe. You know who plays it safe? Suckers who are content with mediocrity. I'm a many always on the move, always looking for the next big thing-- a man with connections, and a man who knows all the angles. That is the man you want in your corner. You looking for a gig in the entertainment industry? Marty's got you, baby. You want your face on the cover of video game boxes-- shit, I'll have you as the character you need the secret code to unlock. Remember, I am the manager of a woman who was a wrestling champion and best selling author. I am the master of all trades, and Mort Goodman is jack shit.
BARNEY: Final question.
JENNA BRACKET: Jenna Bracket, Star Ledger. My last question, in two parts, is addressed first to Mort. What can you tell us about the status of Carter Hayes. And second, Marty, what was your involvement, and what are your thoughts on the situation?
MORT: Jenna, the last I heard was that his ankle was injured. You have to understand, this has all been unfolding in real time, and because I've been here, I've been getting my information second hand from Jack Cameron who, I love him to death, but he is not the most reliable person for conveying medical information. It is my intention to leave here and meet up with Carter, and I can fill everyone in when I get more information myself. As far as your question to Marty, I can answer that for you-- of course he was behind it. He's always behind it. But what he's done is thrown a ten gallon canister of kerosene into an already widespread flame.
MARTY: Jenna, I have no idea what Mort is talking about, and I take great offense with the slanderous accusations that are being slung around without any evidence whatsoever. Did a couple wrestlers get out of hand? Sure they did. Did I have anything to do with it? Absolutely not. But you know what? Even if I did-- this is wrestling--suck it up...
Suddenly, "CRYBABY" CARTER HAYES emerges on the stage, behind Marty, who has his back to him. His left ankle is covered, and he is on crutches.
Vladimir Vishnevsky sees it. He's among the crowd of fans and reporters, and pushes his way through to make his way toward the stage to save his mentor,
MARTY: This is a sport where people get hurt. You want the lead role-- then be a man. And if you can't handle the lead role and all of the pressures and threats that come with it, then pardon my language, but get the fuck off my stage.
Carter is now standing right behind Marty.
CARTER: My sentiments exactly.
Marty turns to see Carter, with crutch in hand, winding it up and unleashing it over his head, sending Marty flying off of the stage, crashing into Vishnevsky.
The press is going nuts. Cameras are flashing. Barney puts his head in his hands.
CARTER: And as for the rest of MetroPRO-- the Shaws, Driver, Vishnevsky, Jackson, Owyns, and whoever else is out there: you've got it right, I am your adversary, and I am will be back to address each and every one of you in turn. So catch up, boys and girls-- you've got about a month before the Crybaby is back, so make the most of it.
Carter drops the mic and walks of the stage as the feed cuts out.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST BOOTH - EVENING
We are back in the booth with Ian Wright and Danny Denville.
DANNY: We folks, there you go, the first card is set. Six title elimination matches. Twenty men and women taking that first step toward gold. And the big news coming at the very end-- Carter Hayes will be out of action for at least a month.
IAN WRIGHT: Well this is not good news for Mort Goodman as he has essentially lost his right hand man.
DANNY: Well that will do it from this side of the camera, folks. Next week, Jack Cameron will be back. It has been a please, and tune in next week for Killshot 1.
FADE TO BLACK
Our scene opens inside of the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City. MetroPRO color commentator IAN WRIGHT and stand-in commentator DANNY DENVILLE sit at the broadcast booth against the backdrop of an empty area-- with the unoccupied ring looming in the background as a sign of things to come.
Something is amiss. At first glance, the energy level of our broadcast team is deflated. Is it a lack of chemistry thing? No. Is it a lack of interest? No. Something else is going.
DANNY DENVILLE: Folks, Danny Denville and I'm sitting in tonight for Jack "The Janitor" Cameron. Along side me is "Righteous" Ian Wright, and we are at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City for a special edition of MetroPRO. This is Selection Sunday. One week from this evening, in the ring behind us, MetroPRO kicks off its inaugural event. Right now, in a press room inside this very building, co-owners Mort Goodman and Marty Sunshine are getting ready to make their selections for the first card. However, folks, we have breaking news of an urgent nature that we need to report to you.
Ian Wright shakes his head in disgust.
IAN WRIGHT: A few short hours ago, Carter Hayes was conducting an interview with our very own Meadow Leigh, and he suffered injuries following an attack by three wrestlers on the MetroPRO roster. We are going to bring you footage from the altercation now.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER - BACKSTAGE AREA - ONE HOUR EARLIER
We pick up, via prerecorded footage, in the backstage area. MetroPRO interviewer MEADOW LEIGH stands beside "CRYBABY" CARTER HAYES.
MEADOW LEIGH: Standing beside me right now is MetroPRO star and protege to one of the co-owners of this organization, "Crybaby" Carter Hayes. Carter, there is a lot of excitement in the air-- but a lot of tension as well. Can you give us an idea of what is going on in your head right now. How do you feel?
CARTER: Meadow, right now I'm feeling liked a marked man. Kodi Jackson, Lora Shaw, Warren Shaw, 8-Ball, Dennis Driver-- they've all publicly denounced me as public enemy number one. Add on top of that the fact that we have a sociopath like Mart Sunshine in pow--
Suddenly, Carter is ambushed from behind by a massive forearm to the back of the head, courtesy of Jack Owyns, which sends Carter toppling to the cold floor, and Meadow Leigh fleeing for help. No sooner does Carter hit the floor than he is mean with an onslaught of brutal kicks and punches courtesy of Jack Owyns, Kodi Jackson, and Vladimir Vitsnevsky. Carter is on the ground trying to cover up, but it is to no avail. It is only after the Crybaby is left motionless, holding his right forearm, that the ruthless trio depart.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER - ARENA AREA - BACK LIVE
We're back with Ian Wright and a somber Danny Denville
DANNY DENVILLE: Carter Hayes has been taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he is undergoing observation. His best friend and our regular color commentator Jack Cameron is with him. We shall keep you posted if and when we receive more information.
IAN WRIGHT: I don't even know what to say about all of this. If this was some ploy on the part of Marty Sunshine to throw Mort Goodman off his game for selection Sunday, it just may very well have worked. Here's footage from the meet and greet area from earlier, from when Mort received the disturbing news.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - MEET AND GREET AREA - EARLIER
Mort Goodman steps up to the podium as cameras begin to flash.
MORT: Ladies and gentlemen, I believe in pure wrestling. I admire the technique and skill of our competitors above all else. With that in mind, I would like to present to you a man that I hand-picked to bring aboard here at Metro:PRO Wrestling. This man is embodies the vision I had for this company. He is former IWA talent, Weston Alexander!
"Frontline" by Pillar plays through the speakers in more of an undertone for the press conference as Weston steps out and walks up the stairs. Wearing a pair of tight blue jeans and a maroon pinstripe shirt. He approaches Mort with a smile as Mort reflects the same smile. They shake hands authentically for a moment before turning to the press with their hands still locked in a handshake. Cameras flash to comemmorate the moment before Mort steps aside and allows Weston to step up to the podium. He smiles politely as he looks out to the crowd.
WESTON: You'll have to forgive me as I'm not used to public speaking. First, I'd like to thank Mr. Goodman for seeking me out and signing me to this blooming company. I'm proud to be an integral part of the inception of this company. The IWA closed its doors but, as they say, when one door closes, another door opens. So... I believe this is the part where you ask me questions.
MAN: Ryan Jefferson, ESPN.com. When we last saw you, you were gearing up for action to see who would become the first IWA National Champion but the company folded before you got that opportunity. Do you feel like Metro:PRO should compensate you for that lost opportunity or do you feel like the Newman family owes you some sort of consolation?
WESTON: There are legal avenues I could investigate against the Newman family. I've been advised by my legal team regarding such matters, but it's not something I'm interested in. The Newman family did everything they could with what the Redding family handed down to them. It just wasn't enough. Losing a business is enough. Legal recompense is just adding insult to injury at that point. As far as Mort and Marty owing me anything, they didn't inherit the Newman family's debt. I will earn my own opportunities, blaze my own trail I believe is the expression I've heard that fits, and hopefully have plenty of success here.
WOMAN: Angela Ward, Bleacher Report. From what we've seen publicly, you declared Carter Hayes as an adversary. Could you elaborate a bit on that? I know that you and he had some back and forth leading up to the match that wasn't for the National Title. Did he say something that upset you or made you want to target him?
WESTON: Absolutely not. I was not involved in the creation of my statistical profile that was presented upon my entrance into Metro:PRO. That was handled by my public relations agency and Metro:PRO's public relations team. I believe that the profile stated my lack of dislike for him, as a matter of fact. I have great respect for Carter Hayes. His talent is unquestionable as was his undefeated record in IWA. He's impressive. I plan to be more impressive. That's as far as that goes.
VOICE: This is why I'm better suited to run this company than you are, Mort.
Marty Sunshine steps up onto the stage. Mort adjusts to see and locks eyes with Marty.
MORT: Marty, please. This is Weston's time to speak with the media.
MARTY: And he's done such a wonderful job.
Sensing the sarcasm in his voice, Mort stands and positions himself closer to Marty.
MORT: If you have something you want to discuss, we can do so privately.
MARTY: This is the perfect time to discuss this. I mean, look at Weston.
Weston looks curiously at Marty Sunshine.
MARTY: He's not marketable! Metro:PRO needs excitement! They need entertainment! Sure, Weston can wrestle, but he cannot entertain! The people want to see death-defying moves! They want to see outrageous stipulations, personal vendettas. You can't market a robot!
WESTON: I assure you I am a human. My biological functions all support that.
MARTY: See what I mean?
MORT: Fans want to see wrestling. This isn't a cartoon or an action movie, Marty. This is wrestling. Wrestling fans will appreciate Weston's superb technique and arsenal of submission holds.
MARTY: Fashion is what catches the eye first, not function.
WESTON: I'm not a professional stylist but I do believe my outfit is very fashionable.
A few woos are heard from female members of the crowd causing Weston to smile weakly. He looks back to Marty.
MARTY: This is useless.
MORT: I'm not done with you! Get back here!
Marty walks out of view as Mort storms after him, his anger very apparent. Weston looks in the direction they left for a few moments before looking back to the press.
WESTON: Thank you, everyone. That's all the time I have. Enjoy the rest of the show!
Weston smiles and waves as cameras continue flashing. Weston walks down the steps and to the back.
Meanwhile, a staff member steps into the frame and quickly moves toward Mort, whispering in his ear The camera slowly zooms in toward Mort's expression, which changes-- he is boiling. Mort storms off, punching he wall on his way off the scene.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST BOOTH - BACK TO PRESENT
We are back with our commentators, Ian Wright and Danny Danville, at the broadcast boot. It remains a somber scene.
DANNY DENVILLE: While we are at it folks, we want to send our thoughts and prayers out to former IWA champion Travis Black, who earlier this week suffered a gunshot wounds, but remains in stable condition. We wish him a speedy recovery.
IAN WRIGHT: Well Travis Black is one tough dude and would make a fine addition to the MetroPRO roster.
Danny touches his earpiece to signify that he is receiving word of something.
DANNY DENVILLE: Folks, we're getting word that something is going down inside the conference room where tonight's press conference is supposed to be taking place. We bring you there now live.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER - PRESS CONFERENCE ROOM - CONTINUOUS
We pick up inside the large conference room, where a long table, draped with a purple MetroPRO banner, sits on a a stage, facing a sea of chairs. The press has not yet been let in, but there is a flurry of activity as MORT GOODMAN is on the stage, mounting MARTY SUNSHINE, reigning down fist after first into the head of his feisty adversary.
MetroPRO staff are quick to grab hold of Mort, pulling him off of Marty. As Sunshine rises, additional staff grab hold of him to keep him from lunging at Mort.
MORT: You son of a bitch! I will tear your fucking eyes out and shove them up your ass!
MARTY: Bring it on, Goodman! I'll send you to Mount Sinai just like your boy!
Suddenly, we hear a voice-- a stern, no-nonsense voice, the volume of which carries through the conference room. It is the voice of arbitrator BARNEY BRADSHAW.
BARNEY: Enough!
He takes command of the room, as the staff let go of the warring co-owners.
BARNEY: Listen, you two idiots-- we have a sea of press, fans, and employees just outside of those doors, and you're in here acting like it's your first fucking day on the schoolyard. Now, I want professionalism-- do I make myself clear?
MORT: But he--
BARNEY: Do I make myself clear, Mort?
Mort is silent. Barney looks to Marty
BARNEY: Now as for you, that shit you pulled with Carter--
MARTY: I didn't do anyth--
BARNEY: Don't you interrupt me when I'm talking, you pubic-haired prick. And don't give me any bullshit that you had nothing to do with what took place an hour ago. You think I was born fucking yesterday? There are gonna be repercussions for the assault. Somebody is getting punished, and I'll deal with that next week. For now, we've got a press conference to tend to.
Barney turns to leave, but then remembers something, and turns back toward Marty.
BARNEY: Oh, and Marty, by the way-- that little stunt tonight cost you your first pick in the card selection. Mort, you get the first two picks. Now kiss and make up. You can go back to beating the shit out of each other at the end of the night.
Barney walks out.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST BOOTH - EMPTY ARENA AREA - CONTINUOUS
We're back with Ian Wright and Danny Denville, who have been soaking in the events in real time, along with us.
IAN WRIGHT: Well there you have folks. Mort gets a little bit of justice with the assurance that somebody from the assault upon Carter Hayes will be punished. Perhaps more significant, whatever involvement Marty Sunshine had in the attack has cost him, as Mort Goodman will be making the first two picks tonight to decide the lineup for the first official Killshot Card next Sunday.
DANNY DENVILLE: Folks, the conference will be starting shortly, as the press begin to fill the room. In the meantime, we're gonna take you back stage to see if we can catch up with some of the MetroPRO superstars.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - FAN MEET AND GREET CONFERENCE ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Morgan could hardly believe her eyes, and she was someone who relied on illusions and trickery for a living. Everything in the past few days had been so surreal, so unbelievable that all she wanted to do was pinch herself just to make sure it was happening. But she didn’t have to. She was well aware of where she was, and she had Marty Sunshine to thank. Whether or not he saw potential in her or he was just a fan of women who could make things disappear remained to be seen.
Regardless, Morgan le Faye was at the contract signing, feeling the atmosphere in the air shared by her fellow people here to make a show of inking their name to legal binding paper. Since her initial signing, behind the scenes, she made no effort to hide whose team she played for.
She was going to have to make a speech, wasn’t she? Make a good first impression to both her co-workers and the eagerly anticipating fans? Perhaps not a speech. Morgan, even here and now amongst her fellow MetroPRO peers, was still a performer. Still a magician at heart.
Morgan le Faye waited patiently for her moment in the sun, her time to sign her name, to take the pictures, to shake the hands. She was still dressed as if she was here to put on a magical act, top hat and all. Morgan, with a smile fitting one speaking to an audience, spoke.
MORGAN: First off, I’d like to thank Mr. Marty Sunshine for giving me this opportunity. I couldn’t be here without his eye for talent, and he’s not going to regret this.
Morgan pauses to give Marty some polite applause, regardless of whether or not anyone joins in.
MORGAN: I’m excited to be a part of this promising company, and definitely excited to finally have a steady source of income.
Pause for laughter.
MORGAN: Some of you out there might think it odd for someone like me to stand in the same place as more…expected and known people like Damian Cole or Jack Owyns. But that’s to be expected, I guess. After all, what you’ve heard about me is true. Yes, I am a magician by trade. I don’t think that should matter in this business. You allow nail polish peddlers and wannabe super heroes into this place, a magician isn’t that unusual. I’d like to state, for the record, that just because I’m signing with MetroPRO doesn’t mean I’m not available for parties and events. Miss Morgan le Faye, Mistress of Magic is still accepting booking for all your events. ZVARRI!
Morgan exclaims and raises both of her hands in the air, kicking back her right foot and tilting her head to the left. She’s so comfortable doing this pose that one could reasonably assume she does it often in her magic act, the way some might use abracadabra.
MORGAN: I look forward to showing you all the wonderment of magic in all of its glory. Speaking of, how about a quick trick for you all?
Morgan looks around at those in attendance, particularly at her fellow roster members, gauging them for a reaction, but not really caring if they approve or don’t. Morgan removes her hat and shows it off, showing how nothing is inside of it.
MORGAN: As you can see, there’s nothing in this hat, and nothing up my sleeves.
Morgan shows her sleeves. They are empty. Morgan grabs a pen from the table set up, showing that off as well. A normal, ball point pen. Morgan drops the pen into her hat and places the hat on top of her head.
MORGAN: Problem. I’m supposed to sign this contract, but there’s no pen to be found. What am I to do?
Morgan pouts her lips and places her index finger on her chin, deep in thought. Or pretending to be. Morgan then snaps her finger and smiles.
MORGAN: ZVARRI!
Morgan claps her hands together and in the palm of her right hand appears the same pen from her hat. She twirls it in between her fingers, smiling, waiting for any applause at the feat of magic on display.
MORGAN: Magic, ladies and gentlemen!
Morgan smiles and finally approaches the contract with her name on it. With one final smile towards the crowd, Morgan leans forward and puts pen to ink, signing her name officially.
With her name down, she looks once more towards those around her.
MORGAN: And with that, Miss Morgan le Faye, Mistress of Magic is officially part of MetroPRO! Bringing you all magic, week after week! ZVARRI!
Morgan takes a bow, removing and tipping her hat in the bow gesture as well. One last wave and smile for the lights of cameras and Morgan returns to her seat, letting the others participating sign their names. The show must go on, after all. And now she was part of the act.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BACKSTAGE AREA - CONTINUOUS
The cameras zoom in on a conversation that's going on backstage. Weston Alexander and one of Metro:PRO's technicians are seemingly having a casual conversation.
WESTON: The key is to limit your refined sugars and maximize the amount of protein you eat while minimizing calories. Protein and sugar are two compounds high in calories so you want to make sure you're careful about what you put into your system.
TECH: What about fruits?
WESTON: Fruits are good, but in low amounts. Though healthy, the natural sugars boost the caloric content and thus increase your calorie intake for the day.
TECH: What if I just eliminate sugar entirely?
WESTON: This is a terrible plan. Your body uses sugar to keep its energy high. Too much sugar can obviously lead to a crash, but carbs in slow, steady doses are critical in keeping you functional and awake. Whole grains are perfect in this regard. While the grains turn to sugar, they slowly let it enter your bloodstream. By doing so, you can have that steady energy instead of the jittery energy. It's much better--
Ravyn Nightshade then walks by, stopping Weston in mid-sentence. She is oblivious to the pair of them standing there but Weston quickly takes notice. His expression is one of amazement as he watches her pass by and continue down the hallway. The technician looks down the hall and back at Weston several times.
TECH: Are... you alright?
WESTON: My goodness... Who was that?
TECH: That's Ravyn Nightshade. She calls herself the Huntress.
WESTON: So that's Ravyn...
The technician laughs a bit causing Weston to place his attention back on him.
WESTON: I'm sorry?
TECH: No, it's just... You said, "so that's Ravyn," which immediately made me think, "That's So Raven."
Weston continues to look at him blankly.
TECH: You know... Like the television show?
WESTON: I'm sorry. I'm not familiar with this television show.
TECH: It's a show about a girl who...
Weston appears to be entirely uninterested.
TECH: You know what, nevermind. Not important.
WESTON: So what kind of woman is Ravyn?
TECH: I...
The technician trails off as he seems conflicted on how he should proceed.
TECH: She's not known to be the nicest person.
WESTON: Ah. Struck out with her yourself?
TECH: No, no. I have a wife and two children at home.
WESTON: I'm sorry to hear that.
TECH: Sorry? ... Nevermind, not important. She's a bit ill-tempered if you bother her without reason. She doesn't strike me as the kind of person who enjoys casual conversation.
WESTON: Excellent. No need to exchange pleasantries then.
TECH: Seriously, I wouldn't recommend trying to approach her.
Weston: I will take your recommendation under advisement. In the mean time, I must prepare to meet the press. We'll talk later perhaps.
Weston nods at him politely as he turns to walk off. He stops for a moment to look in the direction that Ravyn walked off in and smiles slightly before turning and walking off in the opposite direction.Fruits are good, but in low amounts. Though healthy, the natural sugars boost the caloric content and thus increase your calorie intake for the day.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BACKSTAGE AREA (ELSEWHERE) - CONTINUOUS
A significant amount of time had passed since we had seen ANYA LEIGH-CASTELLO take an active role within the wrestling industry. However, the rookie wrestler was now about to make her return and currently, she was opting to hang around the backstage area of the arena she would be spending a lot more time in these days. She currently wasn’t achieving a lot, however, as she was perching on the edge of a crate that was sat against one of the walls in the hallway, staring down at the screen on her phone.
Suddenly a familiar face to Anya-Leigh came bouncing up in front of her; it was ALLYANA RIVERA. The pair had known each other from their time in a previous company and had become friends before the company closed. The bubbly young wrestler greeted Anya-Leigh with a smile.
ALLYANA RIVERA: Hey stranger! How have you been?
Finally dragging her gaze up from her phone, Anya-Leigh can’t help but smile.
ANYA-LEIGH CASTELLO: Well, well, well, look who it is!
She said as she beamed a smile to her friend.
ANYA-LEIGH CASTELLO: Honestly, I’ve been brilliant! I can’t say I’ve been achieving a lot during my time away from the ring but that’s why I’m thrilled to be back… it’s about time! I heard you had signed a contract here as well and it’s great to see you again! How have you been?
Allyana nodded and beamed back at Anya-Leigh.
ALLYANA RIVERA: I sure have!
She then shrugged her shoulders lightly.
ALLYANA RIVERA: To be honest, I’ve not been achieving much either since the last time we saw each other. Went back home, trained hard and now I’m back more ready than ever!
Allyana then stopped with her excited jitters and put on a more serious face.
ALLYANA RIVERA: Did you get my email? What do you think of the idea?
Anya-Leigh nodded her head as an initial response.
ANYA-LEIGH CASTELLO: I did indeed. Honestly, I’m so stoked to have read that particular message when I did… I was uncertain about my position here or even if it was wise to return but now, I think it would be an incredible career move for the two of us to join forces. So of course, if you’re still up for it, then so am I!
Allyana clapped her hands together quickly and enthusiastically; she found it difficult to contain her excitement at times.
ALLYANA RIVERA: Of course! I think it will be an amazing move going forward and I think right here is the place to do it!
Just at that moment a member of the backstage staff walked by, it was apparent from their approach that they had been eavesdropping on the two girls conversation. It was also clear from the woman’s shirt, which had #TeamMarty printed on the front, where her allegiances lay.
STAFF MEMBER: You can’t be serious? Do you really think you two stand a chance at going anywhere here? There’s being positive and then there’s just plain delusional. Why don’t you two just click your heels together and think of home, huh?
Anya-Leigh let out a soft sigh as the staff member began to wander off.
ANYA-LEIGH CASTELLO: Looks like we’re going to have a lot of people to prove wrong around here…
Allyana just looked around blankly, clearly affected by the staff member’s comments.
ALLYANA RIVERA: I think you’re right…”
Suddenly, Mama Rivera came rushing up to the pair, she had witnessed what had just happened and wasn’t impressed by their reactions.
MAMA RIVERA: What is wrong with you two girls? You need to stand up for yourselves! No just letting her walk away and looking sad! Tis’ no good!
Allyana just looked to her mother.
ALLYANA RIVERA: Mama, it’s okay-
Mama Rivera didn’t let her finish.
MAMA RIVERA: No! It not okay, mija! Sometimes to get by in this world you have to be more confident around people like her. It a good thing you girls have me, I help you learn.”
Mama Rivera smiled at the pair and wandered back off to the buffet table where she had come from, leaving them to contemplate what she had said.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST BOOTH - CONTINUOUS
Ian Wright and Danny Denville are looking satisfied by the exchange they have just witnessed.
IAN WRIGHT: Well there you have it-- could we be looking at a new powerhouse for Team Mort within the MetroPRO tag team division?
DANNY DENVILLE: It will be interesting to see how Mort plays this tonight.
IAN WRIGHT: And Marty for that matter. This whole process is like a chess game, and the participants in this particular game know each other so well.
DANNY DENVILLE: Speaking of Mort and Marty, we're gonna to the respective back stage offices of Mort Goodman and Marty Sunshine to get some last words from the owners before we turn to the official press conference for Selection Sunday.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BACK STAGE OFFICE A - CONTINUOUS
Inside of the first backstage office, we find Mort Goodman alongside a very emotional Grace Taylor, visibly shaken by what has already transpired with her fiance, Carter Hayes.
Mort is on his cell phone.
MORT: Okay...okay Jack...no, it's gonna be alright, just keep us posted.
Mort hangs up the phone. He turns toward Grace.
MORT: Carter shattered his ankle.
GRACE: Shattered his ankle? That sounds horrible!
MORT: Gracie, relax-- those were Jack's words. He tends to be a little dramatic, and let's face it-- he's not a doctor.
GRACE: Is he okay?
MORT: He's gonna be out for a while, but Carter's tough. He will be back.
Mort sighs.
MORT: Listen, I know you don't want me playing favorites, but in light of everything that's been going on, I can't let Marty pick your match. He's gonna go for the jugular.
GRACE: Daddy, that's exactly what he wants-- he wants you to protect me so he can sell to the entire roster that I am a protected girl, and that you are corrupt with nepotism. Let him pick whoever he wants from his team-- let him pick the whole team. I'm not going to let Marty Sunshine get the psychological advantage.
Mort puts his head in his hands, clearing conflicted by the choices before him.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BACK STAGE OFFICE B - CONTINUOUS
We now pick up with the office down the hall, where we find Marty Sunshine pacing back and forth, while Priscilla Price sits at a table. He looks pissed off and very troubled.
MARTY: This is bullshit. That bald brute Barney is making my life very difficult, taking away my first selection-- my very first selection! Where the hell is Tony Pham-- he's supposed to be weighing in on these decisions, and he's nowhere to be found!
Marty stops, takes deep breaths to collect himself.
MARTY: Okay, deep breaths-- deep breaths, Marty. Everything is going to be okay.
There's a knock on the door. Marty opens it. Standing there is MetroPRO rookie sensation Angelina Bellini. And much to Marty's surprise, standing with her is her father, Vincent "Vinny" Bellini.
The immediate reaction on Marty's face tell a couple things: first, this is an important, powerful man; and second, Marty is a little uncomfortable with him being there. Nevertheless, Marty, being the showman he is, concocts his biggest smile.
MARTY: Angelina, come in! Look at you, and you brought your father! Vincent, how are you? If I knew you were coming up, I would have booked you a room at the Ritz.
VINCENT: I like my visits to be a surprise, Marty, but thank you for the offer.
Vincent notices Priscilla sitting there.
VINCENT: And who is this gorgeous thing?
Marty lets out an uncomfortable chuckle.
MARTY: Where are my manners, this is Priscilla Price. Priscilla, this is Mr. Vincent Bellini, Angelina's father.
Priscilla stands and smiles, holding out her hand. Vincent Bellini kisses it.
PRISCILLA: Hello, Mr. Bellini, it is a pleasure.
VINCENT: Charmed, my dear.
ANGELINA: This is my old friend, daddy.
Vincent smiles. He turns to Marty.
VINCENT: So Marty, I thought I'd stop by and check out your new promotion. Angelina tells me you have quite the operation here, and that you've been treating her well?
MARTY: Oh yeah. Absolutely. Angelina's gonna be a superstar-- she's a very talented woman.
VINCENT: Well that's good to hear, Marty-- because this wrestling thing, I don't quite get it--
ANGELINA: Daddy!
VINCENT: But clearly it's important to her-- so if it's important to her, it's important to me. You understand, right Marty?
MARTY: Of course.
Vincent smiles, which somewhat breaks the tension.
VINCENT: So we understand each other-- that's good. I'll be looking forward to seeing what opponent you pick for Angelina.
Vincent turns to leave, but before he does so, he shoots another smile at Priscilla.
VINCENT: So long, dear.
Vincent leaves.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST BOOTH - CONTINUOUS
Ian and Danny sit speechless for a moment.
IAN WRIGHT: Wow. Well it seems that our two leaders each have their own stressors going into this selection process, which will get underway momentarily. But first, we go back to MetroPRO correspondent Meadow Leigh, who is backstage with the man who is looking to start a white trash party, Jimmy Kort.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BACKSTAGE AREA - CONTINUOUS
Jimmy Kort is backstage.He's standing by with Medow Leigh and Jimmy likes what he sees. He gives her an up and down and nods his head about her looks. Jimmy has a Dixie bandana holding back what little hair he has. He's wearing a pair of jeans and a white t-shirt that shows off his upper body.
MEADOW LEIGH: Meadow Leigh here folks, and I'm standing by with yet ANOTHER signing here at Metro:Pro. I'm here with Jimmy Kort, a man who has had some success in the squared circle before. Jimmy, welcome to Metro:Pro.
Jimmy strokes his beard/stubble a little bit and smiles, nodding his head.
JIMMY KORT: Thank ya sugah. Ain't you somethin'. Jimmy Kort ain't here to police no more. Those Sheriff days, they're behind me. Those days of givin' out that Southern Justice, that's over too. Ya see Ms. Meadow, I came to a discovery durin' my recent off time.
MEADOW LEIGH: Yeah, Jimmy? And what would that be?
JIMMY KORT: I realized that the only person that's there for ya in the end sug, ya know who it is?
Meadow nods her head. She doesn't know.
JIMMY KORT: It's your damned self. It ain't your Daddy, your Mommy, hell even your damned kids. The only person there for ya when you die, when you take your final breath, even when you close your eyes at night - is yourself.
MEADOW LEIGH: Well that's certainly a hot take, Jimmy.
JIMMY KORT: More than that darlin', it's the way it is now. Jimmy ain't lookin' out for no one but him damn self anymore. He don't give a damn about none a' the people in the crowd, he don't care 'bout none a' them boys in the back, none a' them girls neither.
MEADOW LEIGH: Alright, Jimmy. Seems like you're gonna be a bit of a loner in the locker room.
JIMMY KORT: I mean, you Ms. Meadow, Jimmy might give a damn 'bout you. He just might.
Meadow doesn't know if he's being genuine or not. She feigns a smile.
JIMMY KORT: And I ain't said I wanna be a loner, darlin'. All I'm sayin' is that I'm looking out for me, myself, n' I before another damn soul. Ya see I been burnt before. N' I ain't gonna be burnt again.
MEADOW LEIGH: Well there you have it, folks. Jimmy Kort, one of our new signings.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST AREA - CONTINUOUS
Back with Ian Wright and Danny Denville at the broadcast booth, the tenor has picked up.
DANNY DENVILLE: Folks, right now you are in for a real treat-- and that treat comes by way of the newly signed husband and wife team of Lora and Warren Shaw. While they could not be hear tonight, they have put together a little package for us. Let's take a look.
CUT TO:
VIDEO FEED - RECORDING STUDIO
The cameras break away from the live action at ringside for a moment, having detected a feed transmission from one of the large screens suspended above the entrance stage.
Instantly visible is the blonde fighter-come-singer, Lora Shaw; who adorns a set of noise-cancelling head phones and stands in front of an expensive microphone; the kind you'd see within a recording studio.
Upon closer inspection, that's exactly where she is.
Her eyes are closed, suggesting that she's composing herself for another scintillating vocal performance. Instrumental music is piped through the head phones, allowing her to follow the beat accordingly. Her husband Warren stands outside the booth, watching on longingly, with a small gathering of sound technicians in their seats in front of him, adjusting the levels.
Listen up New York City, 'cause we're about to start a party,
if you look real close,
you will see the host,
isn't Mort, oh no – it's Marty,
Mr Goodman is old and grey, raining on your world and mine,
but have no fear,
the Shaw's are here,
all because of Mr Sunshine!
Oh Mort, you suck! You just plain suck!
You're the Knicks and we're the Giants,
Oh Mort, you suck! You just plain suck!
Which is why we're Sunshine's clients.
Warren nods his head enthusiastically to the lyrics; however the technicians that surround him look pained by the flat, screechy performance from the tone-deaf siren. Lora – encapsulated by her song – keeps her eyes closed and continues.
Goodman wants to bore you, with his snooze-fest wrestling,
what he calls “pure”,
smells like manure,
it'll really stink up the ring,
You would rather watch paint dry, than watch his people fight,
but when Marty Sunshine,
and his stars combine,
together we brighten your night!
Oh Mort, you suck! You just plain suck!
You're The Bronx and we're Lennox Hill,
Oh Mort, you suck! You just plain suck!
You suck and you always will!
With that, the instrumental track stops prematurely, as a result of one technician's tolerance being taken beyond the brink. Lora stops and looks puzzled within the booth, throwing a quizzical stare towards the team through the glass – an expression mirrored by her husband, Warren.
WARREN: Hey! Why are we stopping?
Lora removes her head phones and heads directly for the studio exit, motioning towards the team in the next room.
TECHNICIAN: I'm sorry, man – but that was awful. My ears are bleeding into my brain, to the point where I think I can taste it. Yeah, I can. Right in the back of my throat. It tastes like pennies.
Warren looks annoyed.
WARREN: Quick question. Have you ever felt a man's knee straight into your face?
The other technicians squirm and shift uncomfortably in their seats.
TECHNICIAN: Uh...
WARREN: Because if you don't tell her how fantastic she was, you're going to feel it.
In that moment, the tension in the studio is broken as Lora enters the room, positively bursting with enthusiasm at her performance. She's beaming, although her smile – while radiant – isn't infectious.
LORA: Well?! Was I amazing or what?!”
An awkward silence ensues, prompting Warren to place his hands on the shoulders of the technician, squeezing down upon them forcefully.
TECHNICIAN: YOU... You were fantastic!
The other men in the room give her an obligatory round of applause, which she swats away coyly with her hands.
LORA: Oh stop!
Warren approaches her with outstretched arms.
WARREN: Darling, you were fabulous! The guys wanted to hear so much more from you but unfortunately there's some problems with the wiring. The recording equipment is fried.
The blonde buys the story and shrugs.
LORA: Oh well. Do you think I got the message across okay though?
Warren nods and turns to the technicians, glaring at them to offer encouragement. They nod like puppets.
TECHNICIAN: Oh.. Oh yeah, totally. Mort Goodman sucks. Loud and clear.”
Lora smiles and nestles into her husband, delighted with the feedback.
LORA: See – this guy! This guy gets it!
WARREN: Gentlemen, thank you for your time. Same time next week?
Silence.
WARREN: Good! We look forward to it!
The Shaw's exit the sound studio – bringing a halt to the transmission.
CUT TO:
INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST AREA - CONTINUOUS
As the Shaw feed cuts back to our live broadcast, we catch a jaw-dropped Ian Wright and Danny Denville.
IAN: I'm-- I'm not quite sure what to say about that. I'm-- I'm speechless.
DANNY: Unfortunately, Lora Shaw was not speechless. Folks, we're gonna have to cut away to backstage to give us a moment or two to recuperate. Let's bring you back to backstage, where we're catching up with a man that you, Ian, have a lot of experience with-- and a man that Mort Goodman has placed a lot of confidence in, Will Levon.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BACKSTAGE AREA - CONTINUOUS
Several months had passed since we had seen the likes of Will Levon as an active part of the wrestling world but he opted to make the bold move to step back into it, much to the surprise of even himself. In a pre-recorded scene, we see William Levon sat somewhere just in the backstage area of the venue in front of just a plain backdrop.
WILL LEVON: Not everybody around here will know who I am... those same people probably won't care. Doesn't matter, I'll introduce myself anyway. Sup? My name is Will Levon. Former champion in both Force 1 and IWA. And with the same respects, there will be people interested in hearing my story and there will be people who couldn't give a shit."
"Supposing people do want to know, then I'll go into a bit of detail here. Last the world saw me in this industry, I quit my job and broke up with my then-girlfriend, the woman I loved, Alice Autumn. I kinda gave up all the things that meant the world to me. Shit got to me and I do regret all of those previous actions. I just didn't handle my failing career well. But I'm starting over completely. So why did I decide to come back? Why did I decide to step back into the ring after claiming I was done with this industry? Eh. I guess I just can't stay away."
He said with a shrug of his shoulders.
WILL LEVON: Some can say straight away that this is going to be a mistake and that everything is just going to spiral out of control the same way it did last time. But the optimist in me is sayin' otherwise. This time, I got this. Most just sees me as this whiny bitch who runs away from problems rather than face them head on. Think what you want but as always, I'm out to prove people wrong, even though I'm done with caring too much about others. This time, things are going to be different and that's because I've got the support."
"That's one of the many reasons I'm here and why I'm siding with Mort Goodman... because he's just that... a good man. There was once a time he was the only person in the world who believed in me and stated that he thought I actually had potential. I've put all the negativity behind me so I'm here to fight and work with a man I have a lot of respect for. He believes in me to be on his side and I'm not gonna let him or myself down this time."
Finishing with a confident nod of his head, the scene faded out.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST AREA - CONTINUOUS
IAN: Let me say this about Will Levon, I've tagged with him and I've gone to war with him, and the man can fight. With the backing of Mort Goodman and all the support that comes with that, I'd expect big things from Levon here in MetroPRO..
DANNY: Well there you have it folks, so many fighters are on hand tonight in eager anticipation of who they will be matches up against next week at the very first Killshot, and now is the time to find out just what those match-ups look like, as we take you to the press conference.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - PRESS CONFERENCE - CONTINUOUS
Here we are, inside the press conference, the same conference room where earlier, Barney Bradshaw had to lay down the law with Mort and Marty, only this time the conference room is packed with fans, wrestlers and reports, and the place is abuzz.
Marty sits to the right of the press conference table, Priscilla Price seated beside him. On the left side of the table sits Mort Goodman with his daughter, Grace Taylor. Both men appear surly, and have papers scattered about them-- notes, charts, statistics-- all the information they have deemed pertinent to make the appropriate matches this evening.
Seated between the two sides is the man who is increasingly being called upon to maintain order-- "The Arbitrator" Barney Bradshaw. His eyes are heavy, he never smiles. He speaks in such a matter-of-fact tone that the man looks completely unimpressed with the mess that the two lawyers are making
BARNEY: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Selection Sunday, where our esteemed leaders are going make their picks for the first even Killshot, scheduled for next Sunday, November 23, 2014, right here at the Jacob Javits Center. For those wondering who I am, my name is Barney Bradshaw, and I have been jointly selected by Mort Goodman and Marty Sunshine to arbitrate and rule on any issues over which they cannot agree-- which, as it turns out, seems to be pretty much everything.
The tension between Mort and Marty is palpable, as they fix hard stares at one another.
BARNEY: Now before we get started, there are a few housekeeping issues. First, this initial card will feature six first round title tournament matches, two for each of the vacant titles- the Empire Title, the Pure Title and the Tag Team Title. Now I want everyone out there to bear in mind that the first round will continue the following week, so for many of those wrestlers that are not afforded an opportunity to partake in a title tournament-- there's always the next week.
Barney takes a sip of water, turns his head toward Marty, and shakes his head, in frustration over what must follow.
BARNEY: Now originally, both Mort and Marty were each scheduled to pick one match for the respective title tournaments. Well, that's changed. As a result of an altercation that occurred a couple hours ago, that Marty may or may not have had something to do with-- but who are we kidding, he did-- Marty has forfeited his first selection, as well as his right to select a match for the first round of the Pure Title tournament, both of which will go to Mort. If Marty is on his best behavior for the next week, perhaps he will have his full voting privileges reinstated for the following week.
Barney looks to Mort, and then to Marty, and then back to Mort.
BARNEY: Mort, the floor is yours-- you get the first two picks.
Mort shuffles through his papers. He pulls the microphone fixed on the table in front of him closer, clears his throat. He is about to announce his first match, but then pauses and turns to Grace, to confide in her. She shakes her head. Mort looks displeased. He turns again to to the mic.
MORT: Our first selection will be a tournament match for the pure title. It wil pit the Coast to Coast Cover Girl Liz Smalls against Joke-- I mean, Jack-- Jack Owyns.
V. We hear a familiar voice from the crowd.
VOICE: Thankies!
MORT: And the second match will be part of the tag team title tournament, and will feature Anya Leigh Castello and Allyana Rivera against Dennis Driver and Morgan le Faye.
V. Marty smiles, a twisted, devious smile. He looks across the table toward his counterpart, Mort, who already knows what is coming.
MARTY: My first selection will be a fatal four-way match as part of the Empire Title Tournament, and it will pit Grace Taylor against Kodi Jackson, Vladimir Vishnevsky, and Jimmy Kort.
V. V. V. MORT: You sonofabitch.
BARNEY: Mort, knock it off.
MORT: Barney, I'd like a point of clarification-- this match that Marty just announced, it is a fatal fourway match, correct, and not a three-on-one handicap match?
MARTY: Of course.
BARNEY: Your turn, Mort.
Mort is shaken by the news that his daughter has essentially been issued a death sentence.
MORT: Fine. You wanna play like that. My next pick is also part of the Empire Title Tournament. And it will feature Priscilla Price against Will Levon, and Gideon Hazard, and Ravyn Nightshade-- not a handicapped match, but a fatal fourway, of course.
V. V. V. MARTY: This is b--
Barney shoots him a look, and Marty bites his tongue.
Priscilla turns to Marty, panicked.
PRISCILLA: Marty, do something.
Marty is flustered as all eyes turn to him.
MARTY: Uhm, Warren and Lora Shaw versus 8-Ball and Lunar-- tag team qualifier match.
V. Mort slouches back in his chair, a self-satisfied grin on his face, as he blurts out:
MORT: Angelina Bellini versus...Damian Cole.
V. MORT: You heard me.
MARTY: Veto!
MORT: You can't veto.
MARTY: I can too and I do-- veto.
BARNEY: There are no vetoes, Marty.
MARTY: No, you don't understand-- this match cannot happen-- her father...
Marty's words trail off.
Marty is back to shuffling through his papers. He looks stressed. He runs his fingers through his curly hear.
MARTY: Uhm, uhm, Mike Harrison versus Radek Dayz!
V. MORT: I'm gonna fix the second Pure Title qualifier with Lava versus Weston Alexander
V. BARNEY: In my estimation, that will fix the final match with Aura Williams versus Dazielle Molaroni.
V. Barney checks his watch.
BARNEY: Well folks, there's your card. We'll open it up to the press now for some questions, keeping in mind that my wife is waiting for me at home with a warm meal, and I can't possibly leave these two alone-- so lets make it quick.
Mort and Marty both rise, and make their way over to their respective podiums on the stage-- like a presidential debate.
The hands from the press go up. Barney points to a woman in the front row.
CATHERINE WILSON: Yes, Catherine Wilson, Powerslam Magazine. My question's for Mort. We understand that the Pure Title is a reflection of your vision for the company. What does that title represent to you, and why do you see that as the superior title.
MORT: Thank you, Catherine. This is a wrestling promotion. We are in the business of promoting wrestling-- not circus acts, not magic shows, not contests to see who can wield a weapon the hardest, or who can produce the biggest cheap shot. That is the business that Marty Sunshine is trying to push on you-- but that's not sport, and if it is, it sure isn't wrestling. The Pure Title is precisely what it says-- the indicator of who is the premiere wrestler, nothing more, nothing less.
MARTY: May I interject? Thank you, Mort for boring the hell out of all of us. Look, I know what wrestling is about. I coached Damian Cole to a state championship over Mort's boy Carter. I managed Damian Cole to a Second City Championship using wrestling. I get it. But there is more to this sport than just two guys or girls rolling around on the floor. Don't get me wrong-- I'm all for two girls rolling around on the floor, and in fact I'd pay good money for that-- but if I'm gonna pay for that, I can think of a bunch of other places, particularly in this city, where I can get more bang for my buck so to speak. The Empire Title is the premiere title in MetroPRO because we will test men and women's skill set under the most extreme circumstances. Take Mort's vision of what makes the premiere athlete, give me a bat, and I'll knock that premiere athlete on his ass.
Barney points to another member of the press.
DAN HENDERSON: Dan Henderson, prowrestling.com-- my question is for both Marty and Mort. By my count, twenty wrestlers were given the opportunity for gold tonight by being entered into title tournaments-- eight in the Tag Team division, eight in the Empire division, and four in the Pure Division. However, there were a handful of wrestlers that were left out of the title hunt tonight. What do you say to those wrestlers.
MARTY: Don't blame me-- Mort got the first two picks, and was permitted to select four of the six title matches tonight. And who did the majority of those shots go to? Those who have aligned themselves with team Mort. Who's the corrupt one now? Under a Marty Sunshine regime, title shots will be handed out even-handedly. What do I say to those several wrestlers who were not put into the title hunt? Blame Mort, and come over to Marty, where every day there's sunshine.
MORT: First of all, anyone who refers to their role as a "regime," is an asshole. Second, you have to keep in mind that the fights next week only represent one half of the first round-- one half of the bracket. If twenty wrestlers were afforded title hopes tonight, then twenty more wrestlers will be afforded that same hope next week. So to Damian Cole, Radek Dayz, Mike Harrison, Aura Williams, Dazielle Molaroni,
Angelina Bellini, I say to you-- fight hard next week, because at the conclusion of your first fight here, we will announce the second half of title opportunity, and we want to see your names in those brackets.
EDUARDO GARCIA: Eduardo Garcia, BleacherReport. This question is for both of you-- what do you have to say to those fighters who have not aligned themselves with either of you. What is it that you have to offer them.
Mort shoots a look in the direction of Marty.
MORT: Let me make this point very clear. Marty Sunshine is a crook. He's been adjudicated a crook. I have been his business partner and know how he does business, and I can assure each and every member of this roster that this man does not have your best interests at heart. He is a liar, and a cheat and a fraud. He will tell you what you want to hear, and make you believe he can make it happen, until you have invested your time and your energy and your soul into his cause-- and then he will come up empty. I've seen it happen before, folks. Look, I'm not gonna promise any short cuts, any get rich quick schemes. I can promise that if you work hard, you will be promoted. I can promise you that I have this company's best interests-- this sport's best interests-- at heart. That's what I have to offer.
MARTY: Blah, blah, blah. You know, Mort, you talk a humble game for having a daughter and future son-in-law on the roster. Let me tell you what I have to offer. I'm a success because I know how to gamble, how to take risks, and and how to make those gambles and risks pay off. I don't play it safe. You know who plays it safe? Suckers who are content with mediocrity. I'm a many always on the move, always looking for the next big thing-- a man with connections, and a man who knows all the angles. That is the man you want in your corner. You looking for a gig in the entertainment industry? Marty's got you, baby. You want your face on the cover of video game boxes-- shit, I'll have you as the character you need the secret code to unlock. Remember, I am the manager of a woman who was a wrestling champion and best selling author. I am the master of all trades, and Mort Goodman is jack shit.
BARNEY: Final question.
JENNA BRACKET: Jenna Bracket, Star Ledger. My last question, in two parts, is addressed first to Mort. What can you tell us about the status of Carter Hayes. And second, Marty, what was your involvement, and what are your thoughts on the situation?
MORT: Jenna, the last I heard was that his ankle was injured. You have to understand, this has all been unfolding in real time, and because I've been here, I've been getting my information second hand from Jack Cameron who, I love him to death, but he is not the most reliable person for conveying medical information. It is my intention to leave here and meet up with Carter, and I can fill everyone in when I get more information myself. As far as your question to Marty, I can answer that for you-- of course he was behind it. He's always behind it. But what he's done is thrown a ten gallon canister of kerosene into an already widespread flame.
MARTY: Jenna, I have no idea what Mort is talking about, and I take great offense with the slanderous accusations that are being slung around without any evidence whatsoever. Did a couple wrestlers get out of hand? Sure they did. Did I have anything to do with it? Absolutely not. But you know what? Even if I did-- this is wrestling--suck it up...
Suddenly, "CRYBABY" CARTER HAYES emerges on the stage, behind Marty, who has his back to him. His left ankle is covered, and he is on crutches.
Vladimir Vishnevsky sees it. He's among the crowd of fans and reporters, and pushes his way through to make his way toward the stage to save his mentor,
MARTY: This is a sport where people get hurt. You want the lead role-- then be a man. And if you can't handle the lead role and all of the pressures and threats that come with it, then pardon my language, but get the fuck off my stage.
Carter is now standing right behind Marty.
CARTER: My sentiments exactly.
Marty turns to see Carter, with crutch in hand, winding it up and unleashing it over his head, sending Marty flying off of the stage, crashing into Vishnevsky.
The press is going nuts. Cameras are flashing. Barney puts his head in his hands.
CARTER: And as for the rest of MetroPRO-- the Shaws, Driver, Vishnevsky, Jackson, Owyns, and whoever else is out there: you've got it right, I am your adversary, and I am will be back to address each and every one of you in turn. So catch up, boys and girls-- you've got about a month before the Crybaby is back, so make the most of it.
Carter drops the mic and walks of the stage as the feed cuts out.
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INT. JACOB JAVITS CENTER - BROADCAST BOOTH - EVENING
We are back in the booth with Ian Wright and Danny Denville.
DANNY: We folks, there you go, the first card is set. Six title elimination matches. Twenty men and women taking that first step toward gold. And the big news coming at the very end-- Carter Hayes will be out of action for at least a month.
IAN WRIGHT: Well this is not good news for Mort Goodman as he has essentially lost his right hand man.
DANNY: Well that will do it from this side of the camera, folks. Next week, Jack Cameron will be back. It has been a please, and tune in next week for Killshot 1.
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