We are winding down, my friends, and this one will be the last of this series this week.
After that, there is one final Rampage Spotlight to cover, and you all know who will be the subject of this final promo.
As they say in Jurassic Park - Hold onto your butts.
You seek forgiveness for a great deal of things, Jon, but while earning the forgiveness of the EAW Universe and those you slighted in the back the one thing you need first and foremost is to forgive yourself. Grant yourself for having lost yourself, for the broken promises, and for feeling content knowing that this is the only way to get over that hill and progress forward. Forgiveness is not only from outside sources, it needs to be done from within because through your actions you haven't only hurt others but you've hurt yourself and you need to forgive yourself to heal and work so that your mind doesn't do as I do and return albeit sub-consciously to a place that sabotages your effort.
Both of us were seen as busts through our careers at some point, we both made mistakes and took decisions we shouldn't have done. We both burned bridges, we both lost ourselves, we've let people down, and broke promises we made. Yet through it all, you managed to find a way to achieve success, reach for your potential, and have it push you to the success you've earned for yourself.
By wanting forgiveness for failing to reach your potential during your original run, you won't like to hear it, but you are doing exactly what you say you don't want to do. You are, without realizing it, doing so because you wished things were different and thus you are thinking about what could've been had you been smarter. Had you won some matches. You don't do it as much as I do, thus why it didn't affect you as hard compared to me but whether you want to admit it or not - You're doing it too. You made me realize it on my end, allow me in turn to return the favor.
I took steps for my atonement, I spoke with those I slighted either directly or through messages. Some forgave me, some didn't and that is fine. Through my actions inside the ring, I managed to not only gain the forgiveness of the EAW Universe but thier support as well.
I understand the trade-off to gain respect situation, you sacrificed bits of yourself in hopes to gain the respect of others. You did the same for the sake of gaining more power and you sacrificed friendships for the sake of personal progression. Due to the nature of the business, it is not devout of logic to do such things for the sake of advancing one's career, this is the one business where physically stepping over your colleagues is acceptable up to a degree so of course allies can turn to enemies. Friends can become hated rivals but... From a human perspective, is it worth all the pain and agony?
There was a time where I would've said yes without hesitation, during a time where I thought crushing Bethany's mind knowing she had it in her to rise from it stronger. But doing so at the expense of the friendship we had? And knowing it didn't help me move further in my career. It was a bad decision that turned into a double whammy. Let's not kid ourselves here, Jon, we are no saints, and we never will be. But there are ways to progress in this business and be successful without destroying everything around us in the process.
Realizing this is what allowed my career, along with other good decisions and hard work, to be where I stand now. Yet, there is more work to do, but I know the pieces won't all fall into pieces in the blink of an eye. After all, Rome wasn't built in a day. But I'm not going to stop, I'm going to keep dropping the hammer on my issues and I will continue to do what I have to to make the second part of my career the best it possibly can be.
Daryl Kinkade
I'm going to throw a few names out of the open, and I'd like Daryl to try and figure out what they have in common.
Chef Viz
Veena Adams
Adam Lucas
TLA
He probably needs time to think and find the answer that is obvious for all to see. Is he ready? Here goes: They are all leaps and bounds better than him. If the opposite was the case, he'd be wearing the golden apron the Prophet is cooking with as Showdown's Head Chef. So excuse me when I chuckle when hearing Mister Big Name over there claim he's the biggest draw on Showdown. I can't help but laugh at this which makes him sound like an idiot sandwich. Yep, a Gordon Ramsey reference. Seriously if Daryl could be compared to an episode of Kitchen Nightmare it would be the one about Amy Baking Company. Oh that show, her cooking was good and Gordon was impressed by what she made but boy was her attitude rotten beyond salvaging. Amy also wondered why she was getting negative reviews while considering herself to be the greatest, and we all know where that led. If you haven't watched this folks, I suggest you go look it up on YouTube it's a great deal of entertainment. It's funny as hell.
So Daryl, forget about taking me seriously when no one else grants you any credibility. Haven't you caught wind as to why that is yet? You just need to listen to what you told me earlier today to see everything that is wrong with you. All I need to do is point out that load of gibberish about being Canadian and that's all I need to know about why no one takes you seriously. Yet you're still wondering why I'm a beloved Elitist while you're getting served a shit sandwich every day from the fans and our peers?
I'll give it to you - You got more titles than I do, you managed to break out this season. Does it make you less of a piece of shit? Does having more gold to your name wipe off the silliness that leaves your mouth on the regular, ruining any effort you put towards your credibility? Nah, no, non, nope, absolutely not. And that is what separates us buddy, I don't have the success you have, but I earned my flowers, I earned the cheers and support of the fans and I'm earning the respect of our colleagues progressively while you scratching your head wondering why people aren't kissing your feet like you're part of the Royal family. It's as simple as that, It drives you mad obviously, but shouldn't that motivate you to change that instead of crying over why things don't go your way? One doesn't need a University diploma from Oxford or Cambridge to figure that out.
Funny how you aren't defending yourself over the last bit I said earlier this week, you know, about losing your balls and how you can't do shit on your own? Your silence speaks volumes.
Ronan Malosi
Nah, skip. Jake Smith and I feel more or less the same way, minus the wanting Ronan to die part, and I don't feel like wasting any more time on the guy.
Usagi Senshi
I want to continue thinking you're an intelligent woman who's disgruntled because she's tired of the situation she's in and sick of not being seen for who she is and what she can bring to the table. I want to continue believing that you are sour and full of crank because you've had enough of being treated unfairly while pouring your heart, body, and soul into this business you love so much.
But when you go and say you want to off yourself, which we both know you don't want to, then that throws out the window everything I am trying to hang on to when it comes to my perception of you. I know it's just a matter of speech, you won't go through with it, but how many times have we heard Elitists suggest that their opponents should go unalive themselves? How many times have we heard comments like you claiming you should leave this world? More importantly: When has that ever been a smart thing to say? That is the kind of insult high school bullies use, and you need to be reminded you aren't 16 anymore. I get it, you're angry at the world, but you don't need to let it rot your mind to the point you find saying such things acceptable. This makes you look bad, and that is worse than any negative flak I can get out of releasing the number of videos I have thus far this week. Even if that ain't what I'm doing, I'd rather try too hard than throw shade at myself the way you do.
You're better than this, and while I do feel a bit of sadness to see that the Usagi I used to know is indeed dead, I know that should you manage to get the darkness that surrounds your mind to clear out you'll be stronger than you ever were when we battled for a crack at being Tag Team Champions.
Cody Maverick
Despite your ability to flap your gums and run your mouth like a seasoned trucker, I know you mean no disrespect towards me. Unlike some out there, I ain't easily triggered by mere words. Unless they are used in association with sensitive topics like my family for example and you are smart enough not to go there.
Don't waste your time over trivial things such as why I took so long to talk to ya, because there is nothing behind it. Maybe had I not talked to you at all you could spend a few seconds wondering if I did it to insult you but that isn't it.
I'm not going to judge someone based on the amount of videos they produce or who they talk to, it's not for me to complain because it's part of the job. There is no rules on the amount of work we can put in, and someone who releases a handful of them with some exceptions has just as good a shot at winning as those who made so much more. The way I see it, to conclude on a topic I wasted too much time on, those who complain about the number of videos Aria and I released are telling us they aren't able to keep up with those who put in the work and show their passion at the same time. It's not like they need to respond to anything we say after all. Cody I can tell your head is in the right place through all of this. Just enough arrogance in you to talk down on Jake Smith, which I would get a kick out of if you managed to eliminate to be truthful, but also a realist in terms of the chances you have to win.
When it comes to my lack of success during Free-Per-View since Road to Redemption, the way I see it now, I won the matches that mattered the most for my progression and my evolution. So, while I am not pleased that the Interwre Championship isn't around my waist as I talk these lines something tells me it was somehow meant to be. Not now anyway, and perhaps this is life hinting at me, nudging me towards something bigger and better. As far as you go, Cody? So long as you do not let your impatience rot your potential I feel you'll do fine. I have no idea what is in the cards for you in the future, but if you play the hand you've been dealt right and you work on being patience then the reward of your hard work can appear quicker than you'd expect.
So that's all I'm going to say to you this week Cody, next time you'll hear from me talk to you ya will be face to face.
ARIA
Between the two of us, I'm not surprised to see the front runners in terms of promo getting called out as spammers. This is a consequence of the collective groan everybody made that one season when Bronson established the record for most videos at 45. Since then, some of them are looking at us thinking 'Ah Shit, not again!' and thus we have the crybabies out there complaining over what's part of the job this particular week. Water off my back really, just like I know it doesn't bother you so whatever, right? No one can deny us the passion and drive we are putting on display through the videos we released and those yet to be published. If they can't handle the intensity we use, not our problem, and if they get triggered by mere words then tough shit. In all confidence, I could've stopped making videos sooner, but I didn't want to. Not in defiance, but rather because I wanted to stick to my plan and I'm going to follow through to the end. The same will apply on Sunday when I'll let my actions speak for me, where I'll be 'spamming' the opposition on my way to victory.
What's a good case without its share of difficulties? I bet if you had already solved it by now you'd feel less satisfied than you'll be when you crack it if you haven't already. I know this is a shorter response than other times, apologies, but as we near the end of the week we are both bringing this to a close so what I'll tell you is best of luck on Sunday and I wish you the best.
Ashlynn Quinn
I'm going to give her a small round of applause because while I was expecting her to take the homeless route, she did it in a highly entertaining fashion.
I appreciate you find I am nice in the end, but Ashlynn allow me to burst your bubble and bring a coating of realism to how you should view yours truly. I'm going to give you a few company names for starters.
- The Montréal Canadiens
The most famous and decorated hockey franchise on earth, and the most globally recognized as well. Do you care to guess its net worth? 2.3B$ as of 2023
- Aston Martin
Historic and legendary car maker, the company also owns a Formula One team. The owner is a business partner of mine, and I am good friends with his son who drives. I have parts in this company, whose net worth is around 1.66 billion dollars. Did you also know that Lawrence Stroll's father is the one who brought the Pierre Cardin and Ralph Lauren brand to Canada? I feel this is something a fashionista like you should know.
- Power Corporation
I understand that a klutz like Madison Kaline would look at this company and find it funny, wondering who came up with a silly name like that. But I suggest you take a look at the company's net worth. Last I checked it was estimated at 4.5 billion dollars.
How as I able to have a hand in those pies, you wonder? Simple, I invested a good amount of my EAW salary in GAWD coins when they were on the rise and made a fortune with it by selling them. From there I made a few investments in smart ventures thanks to my financial advisor. And now? While I won't tell you my net worth, I can tell you I'm set for live and I'm not thinking about my money. A good home for my family, a jet to travel everywhere I need, and other amenities. See? I'm no homeless man, you can think I live like one or wonder why I'm not enjoying my wealth by indulging myself but I decided to live modestly by choice and I'm quite happy with that decision. When do I want to treat myself? I get it, I want to attend a Formula One event in the VIP lounge. I just need to have the event booked. Hell, if I wanted I could do like Justin Hammer in Iron Man 2 and have my favorite desert flown into me. See I don't bother about money because I don't want it to be a detriment when I wrestle. I have enough to think about and worry over as it is I didn't want to stress over whether I was able to provide for my mother and niece. They are well provided, and I'm proud to be able to do that for them.
Now, putting that out of the way, yes you can questions my clothing choices, it's okay, I'm not bothered by it. I enjoy practicality over style, comfort over looks and the reason why I have a beard is an homage to hockey where the players don't shave their beards until the playoffs are over and the Stanley Cup is won. It's okay to find it weird, Ashlyn, I thought it was odd when I was younger.
As far as being mean then being nice goes, I figured there was no need to constantly be hostile with you, everybody else is treating you poorly so why should I keep the trend going? I wanted to show that I am more than what you see at first glance. Much like you are working to show the world there is more to Ashlynn Quinn than meets the eye. Grand Rampage, as you said, is indeed full of surprises and if you can make it rather far, then you will indeed have a good night on Sunday.
I'll tell you what if you can use the vitriol you unloaded when talking to Ronan and TLA and harness it into energy to power yourself through Grand Rampage? Then you might even surprise yourself and make it farther than you ever thought possible!
Jack Ripley
You know what? Following what was a discussion with Jon Kelton? I won't bother addressing what Jack said. I won't because I want to show I'm trying to quell that silly meed I have to revisit the past and wonder what could've been. You often hear Elitists within others they would die, I don't wish death upon my worst enemy but there is a part of me that I wish would rest in peace and it's the regrets I have about my past that make my mind wander about what could've been. I wish I could get rid of that flaw of mine as easy as deleting a file off a laptop but life doesn't this way. So while I work to better myself, I can't wait for anyone but especially Lady Cameron to take Jack out of this match and eliminate him and his stupid goal of trying to make her life hell. Dumbass plan for a total dumbass Elitist who'll find a way to bitch when things won't go his way and will wonder why he can't get a shot at the World Championship later.
Ms Extreme
I hear you being unable to envision what happens should you get eliminated during Grand Rampage, this Sunday, and you know what? I think it's fine, it's not wrong at all and between you and me? Until you do get eliminated, IF you get eliminated? There's no use in giving it much thought. This is a classic we'll cross that bridge when we get to it situation and even I am not wasting much of my prep time on wondering what I'll do should I get ousted myself.
Who will I face at Pain for Pride? Will it be for a title? On which night? Under what stipulation? Will I even be on the card? All I know is if I get eliminated, my focus becomes working so I have the best match possible in June to finish the season in the best possible way. I'll also have to handle the sting of not winning my way to the Main Event of Pain for Pride but the closer I get to it before I'm taken out the quicker I'll get over being denied because winning the Rampage isn't my sole objective through all this. As I said before, like everybody else who isn't named Jack Ripley that's the main objective but I have other goals, and in the event if not win the match if I can check the other boxes. Then I'll be happy and it will make going through the heartbreak of defeat hurt less.
What if you're not able to let losing Grand Rampage go?
It's not the ideal response, but you'll just have to swallow that pill, remember this: There will be 28 others forced to do the same thing. So should you lose, find solace in knowing you aren't the only one stuck with this, but, you can work to be the first to move on and make something good with what's left of the season.
Tell you what, if we both come short on Sunday, I'll help you cope. I'll do it because It'll help me cope too, and from there we can help each other turn our frowns into smiles. I'll help you convert your madness into a feeling of pride and while I don't know what will be in store for us at the end of the season I'll be damned if I don't do everything I can to position ourselves in a way so that we can get rewarded for our hard work, our sacrifices, for the hell we had to endure and our ability to survive through it. I don't know what form our reward will take, but that will be what I'll work towards after Sunday if my arm isn't raised and My Way doesn't play loud all over Chase Field.
Jake Smith
Eh bo-boy... Look at him go, folks. Do you know what he reminds me of at the moment? Those UFC fighters who talked big and talked shit but got what they deserved, Names like McGregor, Ortiz, Bespin, and Costa to name only those talked smack a time to many, and what happened? They got their asses kicked. I get it, Jake has always been a cocky little shit, but this time? Especially near the end of the week the way he's been trolling? He's asking for it, and karma being the bitch she's notorious for something tells me she'll be coming around when Smith expects it the least to put him in his place - On his ass and outside of the ring. I'm not saying I'll be her messenger, but we never know.
I'll end with him by quoting the man - NOBODY GIVES A FUCK.
TLA
I heard him say he seeks to be the one to eliminate me, I say let's do it as the final two! Let's make your vision a reality head honcho! You want to take me out but eliminate everybody else first? I'm down! But I will not allow you to do all the work by yourself, if you are so adamant about making me the one whose elimination confirms your ticket to Pain for Pride then I'm going to work for it. I'm going to plow through the field while you do the same on your end, elimination happening left and right until there is only a Mexico versus Canada showdown with a straight-to-final ticket during EAW's World Cup. And then, as the fans watch us, eagerly waiting to see if you will make good on your words ... I'm going to massively disappoint you, for I intend to be the one to eliminate the most decorated elitist participating in the Rampage this season. I'm going to show you something that will utterly shock you, and for a moment no amount of bitches will distract you from the fact that Ryan Joseph Wilson denied you from turning the Poon Palace into a Golden Castle.
And should you manage to make good on your promise and my ass is the last one sent flying, you know what? It's going to be great! Because I will have managed to check all the boxes, all the objectives I've set to achieve on that night but one, and I will be happy with that. Finishing second means I will have done better than Bronson, Jake, Camille, Jon, Cameron, and all the others who think they were able to win. That means I'll have supplanted all those who doubted me. The second best is confirmation of what I've been telling everyone who still isn't seeing me for who I am and how far I've gone as of late.
Last but not least - Bronson Daniels
Unfortunately, and that is much to Bronson's dismay, life is not all black and white. There are multiple layers to this world and the reality within. In the wrestling industry, even the strongest wrestlers lose from time to time. Those with the best work ethics and the best mindset don't automatically win all the time. And if it happens during a Championship match or one granting them an opportunity to win a belt? Well, it's unfortunate but that's all it is, because on that day their strength or wit or attitude wasn't enough to dispose of the opponent and get what they want. I'm putting the interference and cheating out of the way because that is a whole other layer to talk about. It doesn't make those who think like Bronson bad, it doesn't mean they suck, but some days are just not theirs and things don't and won't always go their way. It's frustrating, it hurts, it's agonizing I know, but that is the world we live in. It doesn't make a man like Bronson less as a result it makes him human.
Whether he liked the way it happened or not, Bronson cleanly lost the World Heavyweight Championship. Not a traditional fashion, but his shoulders were kept on the mat for three seconds. There is nothing he can say, no amount of denying, that changes that fact. Now, he has ground to argue over his undefeated streak ending as a result of interference, but unfortunately, this business doesn't care about the way a win or loss happens. Us Elitists? We do, it matters, but the history books don't care whatsoever. I don't need to tell him how cruel the wrestling industry is and I'm not talking about the fans or his rivals.
I'm going to have to point out a few things he won't like me saying, but he needs to hear it. For his own sake. He says he is the only one willing to accept his pain and suffering to become better. That sounds odd, doesn't it? I mean, yes only he can turn his pain and suffering into something to power him forward. Absolutely, but the only one willing? Others can help him become better, help him accept his pain and suffering yes but if he doesn't allow them to do so, if he isn't willing to become better then none will get through to him. So saying he's the only one willing to accept... It feels weird. I understand what he's trying to say but the delivery on that one makes him sound delusional, especially when claims he is the only one who earned this match and deserves this win.
I say this knowing all too well that it can all become validated by a victory on Sunday. This is a victory he has a good chance to get, I haven't taken that from him this week even if I said I felt I was able to win it as much as him. I'll never deny him the fact that he worked incredibly hard to make it here, and the success he's experiencing at the moment despite the agony he lived through is undeniable. The man can win on Sunday, but he has to accept that this event doesn't belong to him. he isn't entitled to winning it and no one is. The only moment he will be able to claim with legitimacy that he deserved the win, is once the bell rings and he is the sole Elitist remaining. Not a moment before, he doesn't have to like it, but it remains the truth and this applies to everybody else, myself included.
He hasn't said so himself, this is just my take on the matter, but Bronson would more than likely prefer if wrestling operated under a leaderboard system, where matches are graded and points are awarded for various things starting with match results, but also effort, skills, and more. The kind of system where only the number one ranked player gets rewarded. Under such a system, while not at the bottom I would not be high in the standings. Fortunately for me and everybody else, we do not live under such a system. We live in a system where chances are granted on merit but also sometimes some Elitists push and shove and are allowed to take things either because they own a certain briefcase or because of how popular they are. Is it fair? This can be argued over for hours on end, but this is the way things go and Bronson has to not just live with that but accept this reality. This is the same reality where someone like me can make a living and sometimes enjoy success when granted an opportunity and can capitalize on it. This goes back to what I mentioned about the strongest doesn't win every time. It's part of life, unfair for some, brutal to others but c'est la vie.
He claims to be the one who'd rather put in the work than complain about it. But what has he done this entire week if not complain about what others think of him? Especially when he screams things like WHY AM I THIS DICKHEAD FOR JUST WANTED A PROPER DEATH? Shouldn't what others think go over his head? The truth is he shouldn't even be bothered by what others think. Bronson worked hard for the success he has yet to repeat, It makes sense for him to think he is The One but this isn't how the world works. He doesn't want to step aside to give others a chance. It's up to the others to push him out of the way. This reminds me of when a team dominates atop of the charts for a few years straight there are always people whining, but why is it the problem of the team that works better than anyone else? It ain't up to them to lower their standards so the others can have a chance, it's up to everybody else to work to not just level up but get past.
The thing is, this industry is all about fending for oneself, working for oneself, and caring only about oneself. So while Bronson has the right at the moment to consider himself the best, with proof to back his words the others who are behind will always continue to work so that they can earn opportunities of their own. We are all doing that, some succeed better than others, but we all do it. There is no 'It's my turn, you can't go until I'm done and I'm never going to be' around here. A Champion ain't done when they decide it's done, they are done when someone else finds a way to beat them. Again, the way a Champion's run ends is often up for debate over the legitimacy of how it took place I won't refute that. But unless it's submission where the Champion willingly abdicate, then it's not up to him when his reign ends. The only thing a Champion can do is what he can to prolong his tenure as long as possible. And when he doesn't have the belt, then he has to work his way back up despite others doing the same thing. It never is a matter of taking turns in this business, it's about how one finds a way to get what one wants. It's about finding a way to do better than the Champ, and unfortunately, sometimes it happens through nefarious means and while I'm not a fan of that at all unfortunately I can't do anything but accept it for what it is.
I'm almost done, hang in there.
Bronson started his his EAW career here during season 14, I remember well because I am the one who drafted him to his first brand while I was leading Showdown. When I was working on the draft I picked several Elitists who were already great such as Theron Nikolas, Kassidy Heart, Jamie O'Hara, Andrea Valentine, Consuela Ella Ava, I picked other great names such as Raven Roberts, Xavier Williams, Jack Ripley, Justin Windgate, Harlow Reichert, Darcy May Morgan, Jon Kelton. Yes, I landed on some busts and disappointments like Christian Demarco, Lucas Johnson, and Ronan Malosi but the one I'll never regret picking is the one I'm not most proud of and that's Bronson Daniels.
Looking at the star power that I drafted, both already established then and those that became powerhouses either while I was General Manager or later the one that always wanted to see succeed the most was Bronson. I didn't show it then, it wasn't part of my job to show it to him or anyone else really but in my mind, I was rooting for him. And through the years it didn't stop as I returned to only being a competitor. No matter if he wins or not on Sunday, and no matter what he thinks of me I'll always find a sense of pride about him.
No - I'm not taking any credit for his success, not a smidge, I'm just glad to be the one who opened the door for him. He stumbled and struggled for a good long while but in the end, he succeeded. He felt at some point that there would be no end in sight, but he managed to make it on the other side and the rest is history. Considering my career thus far, you understand that this is nothing short of inspiring and I want him to succeed again. The only issue is I have my career to think about. But if he manages to win, and once he becomes World Champion again no matter when it happens I'll be proud of him.
29 down, only one to go.
After that, there is one final Rampage Spotlight to cover, and you all know who will be the subject of this final promo.
As they say in Jurassic Park - Hold onto your butts.
Jon Kelton
You seek forgiveness for a great deal of things, Jon, but while earning the forgiveness of the EAW Universe and those you slighted in the back the one thing you need first and foremost is to forgive yourself. Grant yourself for having lost yourself, for the broken promises, and for feeling content knowing that this is the only way to get over that hill and progress forward. Forgiveness is not only from outside sources, it needs to be done from within because through your actions you haven't only hurt others but you've hurt yourself and you need to forgive yourself to heal and work so that your mind doesn't do as I do and return albeit sub-consciously to a place that sabotages your effort.
Both of us were seen as busts through our careers at some point, we both made mistakes and took decisions we shouldn't have done. We both burned bridges, we both lost ourselves, we've let people down, and broke promises we made. Yet through it all, you managed to find a way to achieve success, reach for your potential, and have it push you to the success you've earned for yourself.
By wanting forgiveness for failing to reach your potential during your original run, you won't like to hear it, but you are doing exactly what you say you don't want to do. You are, without realizing it, doing so because you wished things were different and thus you are thinking about what could've been had you been smarter. Had you won some matches. You don't do it as much as I do, thus why it didn't affect you as hard compared to me but whether you want to admit it or not - You're doing it too. You made me realize it on my end, allow me in turn to return the favor.
I took steps for my atonement, I spoke with those I slighted either directly or through messages. Some forgave me, some didn't and that is fine. Through my actions inside the ring, I managed to not only gain the forgiveness of the EAW Universe but thier support as well.
I understand the trade-off to gain respect situation, you sacrificed bits of yourself in hopes to gain the respect of others. You did the same for the sake of gaining more power and you sacrificed friendships for the sake of personal progression. Due to the nature of the business, it is not devout of logic to do such things for the sake of advancing one's career, this is the one business where physically stepping over your colleagues is acceptable up to a degree so of course allies can turn to enemies. Friends can become hated rivals but... From a human perspective, is it worth all the pain and agony?
There was a time where I would've said yes without hesitation, during a time where I thought crushing Bethany's mind knowing she had it in her to rise from it stronger. But doing so at the expense of the friendship we had? And knowing it didn't help me move further in my career. It was a bad decision that turned into a double whammy. Let's not kid ourselves here, Jon, we are no saints, and we never will be. But there are ways to progress in this business and be successful without destroying everything around us in the process.
Realizing this is what allowed my career, along with other good decisions and hard work, to be where I stand now. Yet, there is more work to do, but I know the pieces won't all fall into pieces in the blink of an eye. After all, Rome wasn't built in a day. But I'm not going to stop, I'm going to keep dropping the hammer on my issues and I will continue to do what I have to to make the second part of my career the best it possibly can be.
Daryl Kinkade
I'm going to throw a few names out of the open, and I'd like Daryl to try and figure out what they have in common.
Chef Viz
Veena Adams
Adam Lucas
TLA
He probably needs time to think and find the answer that is obvious for all to see. Is he ready? Here goes: They are all leaps and bounds better than him. If the opposite was the case, he'd be wearing the golden apron the Prophet is cooking with as Showdown's Head Chef. So excuse me when I chuckle when hearing Mister Big Name over there claim he's the biggest draw on Showdown. I can't help but laugh at this which makes him sound like an idiot sandwich. Yep, a Gordon Ramsey reference. Seriously if Daryl could be compared to an episode of Kitchen Nightmare it would be the one about Amy Baking Company. Oh that show, her cooking was good and Gordon was impressed by what she made but boy was her attitude rotten beyond salvaging. Amy also wondered why she was getting negative reviews while considering herself to be the greatest, and we all know where that led. If you haven't watched this folks, I suggest you go look it up on YouTube it's a great deal of entertainment. It's funny as hell.
So Daryl, forget about taking me seriously when no one else grants you any credibility. Haven't you caught wind as to why that is yet? You just need to listen to what you told me earlier today to see everything that is wrong with you. All I need to do is point out that load of gibberish about being Canadian and that's all I need to know about why no one takes you seriously. Yet you're still wondering why I'm a beloved Elitist while you're getting served a shit sandwich every day from the fans and our peers?
I'll give it to you - You got more titles than I do, you managed to break out this season. Does it make you less of a piece of shit? Does having more gold to your name wipe off the silliness that leaves your mouth on the regular, ruining any effort you put towards your credibility? Nah, no, non, nope, absolutely not. And that is what separates us buddy, I don't have the success you have, but I earned my flowers, I earned the cheers and support of the fans and I'm earning the respect of our colleagues progressively while you scratching your head wondering why people aren't kissing your feet like you're part of the Royal family. It's as simple as that, It drives you mad obviously, but shouldn't that motivate you to change that instead of crying over why things don't go your way? One doesn't need a University diploma from Oxford or Cambridge to figure that out.
Funny how you aren't defending yourself over the last bit I said earlier this week, you know, about losing your balls and how you can't do shit on your own? Your silence speaks volumes.
Ronan Malosi
Nah, skip. Jake Smith and I feel more or less the same way, minus the wanting Ronan to die part, and I don't feel like wasting any more time on the guy.
Usagi Senshi
I want to continue thinking you're an intelligent woman who's disgruntled because she's tired of the situation she's in and sick of not being seen for who she is and what she can bring to the table. I want to continue believing that you are sour and full of crank because you've had enough of being treated unfairly while pouring your heart, body, and soul into this business you love so much.
But when you go and say you want to off yourself, which we both know you don't want to, then that throws out the window everything I am trying to hang on to when it comes to my perception of you. I know it's just a matter of speech, you won't go through with it, but how many times have we heard Elitists suggest that their opponents should go unalive themselves? How many times have we heard comments like you claiming you should leave this world? More importantly: When has that ever been a smart thing to say? That is the kind of insult high school bullies use, and you need to be reminded you aren't 16 anymore. I get it, you're angry at the world, but you don't need to let it rot your mind to the point you find saying such things acceptable. This makes you look bad, and that is worse than any negative flak I can get out of releasing the number of videos I have thus far this week. Even if that ain't what I'm doing, I'd rather try too hard than throw shade at myself the way you do.
You're better than this, and while I do feel a bit of sadness to see that the Usagi I used to know is indeed dead, I know that should you manage to get the darkness that surrounds your mind to clear out you'll be stronger than you ever were when we battled for a crack at being Tag Team Champions.
Cody Maverick
Despite your ability to flap your gums and run your mouth like a seasoned trucker, I know you mean no disrespect towards me. Unlike some out there, I ain't easily triggered by mere words. Unless they are used in association with sensitive topics like my family for example and you are smart enough not to go there.
Don't waste your time over trivial things such as why I took so long to talk to ya, because there is nothing behind it. Maybe had I not talked to you at all you could spend a few seconds wondering if I did it to insult you but that isn't it.
I'm not going to judge someone based on the amount of videos they produce or who they talk to, it's not for me to complain because it's part of the job. There is no rules on the amount of work we can put in, and someone who releases a handful of them with some exceptions has just as good a shot at winning as those who made so much more. The way I see it, to conclude on a topic I wasted too much time on, those who complain about the number of videos Aria and I released are telling us they aren't able to keep up with those who put in the work and show their passion at the same time. It's not like they need to respond to anything we say after all. Cody I can tell your head is in the right place through all of this. Just enough arrogance in you to talk down on Jake Smith, which I would get a kick out of if you managed to eliminate to be truthful, but also a realist in terms of the chances you have to win.
When it comes to my lack of success during Free-Per-View since Road to Redemption, the way I see it now, I won the matches that mattered the most for my progression and my evolution. So, while I am not pleased that the Interwre Championship isn't around my waist as I talk these lines something tells me it was somehow meant to be. Not now anyway, and perhaps this is life hinting at me, nudging me towards something bigger and better. As far as you go, Cody? So long as you do not let your impatience rot your potential I feel you'll do fine. I have no idea what is in the cards for you in the future, but if you play the hand you've been dealt right and you work on being patience then the reward of your hard work can appear quicker than you'd expect.
So that's all I'm going to say to you this week Cody, next time you'll hear from me talk to you ya will be face to face.
ARIA
Between the two of us, I'm not surprised to see the front runners in terms of promo getting called out as spammers. This is a consequence of the collective groan everybody made that one season when Bronson established the record for most videos at 45. Since then, some of them are looking at us thinking 'Ah Shit, not again!' and thus we have the crybabies out there complaining over what's part of the job this particular week. Water off my back really, just like I know it doesn't bother you so whatever, right? No one can deny us the passion and drive we are putting on display through the videos we released and those yet to be published. If they can't handle the intensity we use, not our problem, and if they get triggered by mere words then tough shit. In all confidence, I could've stopped making videos sooner, but I didn't want to. Not in defiance, but rather because I wanted to stick to my plan and I'm going to follow through to the end. The same will apply on Sunday when I'll let my actions speak for me, where I'll be 'spamming' the opposition on my way to victory.
What's a good case without its share of difficulties? I bet if you had already solved it by now you'd feel less satisfied than you'll be when you crack it if you haven't already. I know this is a shorter response than other times, apologies, but as we near the end of the week we are both bringing this to a close so what I'll tell you is best of luck on Sunday and I wish you the best.
Ashlynn Quinn
I'm going to give her a small round of applause because while I was expecting her to take the homeless route, she did it in a highly entertaining fashion.
I appreciate you find I am nice in the end, but Ashlynn allow me to burst your bubble and bring a coating of realism to how you should view yours truly. I'm going to give you a few company names for starters.
- The Montréal Canadiens
The most famous and decorated hockey franchise on earth, and the most globally recognized as well. Do you care to guess its net worth? 2.3B$ as of 2023
- Aston Martin
Historic and legendary car maker, the company also owns a Formula One team. The owner is a business partner of mine, and I am good friends with his son who drives. I have parts in this company, whose net worth is around 1.66 billion dollars. Did you also know that Lawrence Stroll's father is the one who brought the Pierre Cardin and Ralph Lauren brand to Canada? I feel this is something a fashionista like you should know.
- Power Corporation
I understand that a klutz like Madison Kaline would look at this company and find it funny, wondering who came up with a silly name like that. But I suggest you take a look at the company's net worth. Last I checked it was estimated at 4.5 billion dollars.
How as I able to have a hand in those pies, you wonder? Simple, I invested a good amount of my EAW salary in GAWD coins when they were on the rise and made a fortune with it by selling them. From there I made a few investments in smart ventures thanks to my financial advisor. And now? While I won't tell you my net worth, I can tell you I'm set for live and I'm not thinking about my money. A good home for my family, a jet to travel everywhere I need, and other amenities. See? I'm no homeless man, you can think I live like one or wonder why I'm not enjoying my wealth by indulging myself but I decided to live modestly by choice and I'm quite happy with that decision. When do I want to treat myself? I get it, I want to attend a Formula One event in the VIP lounge. I just need to have the event booked. Hell, if I wanted I could do like Justin Hammer in Iron Man 2 and have my favorite desert flown into me. See I don't bother about money because I don't want it to be a detriment when I wrestle. I have enough to think about and worry over as it is I didn't want to stress over whether I was able to provide for my mother and niece. They are well provided, and I'm proud to be able to do that for them.
Now, putting that out of the way, yes you can questions my clothing choices, it's okay, I'm not bothered by it. I enjoy practicality over style, comfort over looks and the reason why I have a beard is an homage to hockey where the players don't shave their beards until the playoffs are over and the Stanley Cup is won. It's okay to find it weird, Ashlyn, I thought it was odd when I was younger.
As far as being mean then being nice goes, I figured there was no need to constantly be hostile with you, everybody else is treating you poorly so why should I keep the trend going? I wanted to show that I am more than what you see at first glance. Much like you are working to show the world there is more to Ashlynn Quinn than meets the eye. Grand Rampage, as you said, is indeed full of surprises and if you can make it rather far, then you will indeed have a good night on Sunday.
I'll tell you what if you can use the vitriol you unloaded when talking to Ronan and TLA and harness it into energy to power yourself through Grand Rampage? Then you might even surprise yourself and make it farther than you ever thought possible!
Jack Ripley
You know what? Following what was a discussion with Jon Kelton? I won't bother addressing what Jack said. I won't because I want to show I'm trying to quell that silly meed I have to revisit the past and wonder what could've been. You often hear Elitists within others they would die, I don't wish death upon my worst enemy but there is a part of me that I wish would rest in peace and it's the regrets I have about my past that make my mind wander about what could've been. I wish I could get rid of that flaw of mine as easy as deleting a file off a laptop but life doesn't this way. So while I work to better myself, I can't wait for anyone but especially Lady Cameron to take Jack out of this match and eliminate him and his stupid goal of trying to make her life hell. Dumbass plan for a total dumbass Elitist who'll find a way to bitch when things won't go his way and will wonder why he can't get a shot at the World Championship later.
Ms Extreme
I hear you being unable to envision what happens should you get eliminated during Grand Rampage, this Sunday, and you know what? I think it's fine, it's not wrong at all and between you and me? Until you do get eliminated, IF you get eliminated? There's no use in giving it much thought. This is a classic we'll cross that bridge when we get to it situation and even I am not wasting much of my prep time on wondering what I'll do should I get ousted myself.
Who will I face at Pain for Pride? Will it be for a title? On which night? Under what stipulation? Will I even be on the card? All I know is if I get eliminated, my focus becomes working so I have the best match possible in June to finish the season in the best possible way. I'll also have to handle the sting of not winning my way to the Main Event of Pain for Pride but the closer I get to it before I'm taken out the quicker I'll get over being denied because winning the Rampage isn't my sole objective through all this. As I said before, like everybody else who isn't named Jack Ripley that's the main objective but I have other goals, and in the event if not win the match if I can check the other boxes. Then I'll be happy and it will make going through the heartbreak of defeat hurt less.
What if you're not able to let losing Grand Rampage go?
It's not the ideal response, but you'll just have to swallow that pill, remember this: There will be 28 others forced to do the same thing. So should you lose, find solace in knowing you aren't the only one stuck with this, but, you can work to be the first to move on and make something good with what's left of the season.
Tell you what, if we both come short on Sunday, I'll help you cope. I'll do it because It'll help me cope too, and from there we can help each other turn our frowns into smiles. I'll help you convert your madness into a feeling of pride and while I don't know what will be in store for us at the end of the season I'll be damned if I don't do everything I can to position ourselves in a way so that we can get rewarded for our hard work, our sacrifices, for the hell we had to endure and our ability to survive through it. I don't know what form our reward will take, but that will be what I'll work towards after Sunday if my arm isn't raised and My Way doesn't play loud all over Chase Field.
Jake Smith
Eh bo-boy... Look at him go, folks. Do you know what he reminds me of at the moment? Those UFC fighters who talked big and talked shit but got what they deserved, Names like McGregor, Ortiz, Bespin, and Costa to name only those talked smack a time to many, and what happened? They got their asses kicked. I get it, Jake has always been a cocky little shit, but this time? Especially near the end of the week the way he's been trolling? He's asking for it, and karma being the bitch she's notorious for something tells me she'll be coming around when Smith expects it the least to put him in his place - On his ass and outside of the ring. I'm not saying I'll be her messenger, but we never know.
I'll end with him by quoting the man - NOBODY GIVES A FUCK.
TLA
I heard him say he seeks to be the one to eliminate me, I say let's do it as the final two! Let's make your vision a reality head honcho! You want to take me out but eliminate everybody else first? I'm down! But I will not allow you to do all the work by yourself, if you are so adamant about making me the one whose elimination confirms your ticket to Pain for Pride then I'm going to work for it. I'm going to plow through the field while you do the same on your end, elimination happening left and right until there is only a Mexico versus Canada showdown with a straight-to-final ticket during EAW's World Cup. And then, as the fans watch us, eagerly waiting to see if you will make good on your words ... I'm going to massively disappoint you, for I intend to be the one to eliminate the most decorated elitist participating in the Rampage this season. I'm going to show you something that will utterly shock you, and for a moment no amount of bitches will distract you from the fact that Ryan Joseph Wilson denied you from turning the Poon Palace into a Golden Castle.
And should you manage to make good on your promise and my ass is the last one sent flying, you know what? It's going to be great! Because I will have managed to check all the boxes, all the objectives I've set to achieve on that night but one, and I will be happy with that. Finishing second means I will have done better than Bronson, Jake, Camille, Jon, Cameron, and all the others who think they were able to win. That means I'll have supplanted all those who doubted me. The second best is confirmation of what I've been telling everyone who still isn't seeing me for who I am and how far I've gone as of late.
Last but not least - Bronson Daniels
Unfortunately, and that is much to Bronson's dismay, life is not all black and white. There are multiple layers to this world and the reality within. In the wrestling industry, even the strongest wrestlers lose from time to time. Those with the best work ethics and the best mindset don't automatically win all the time. And if it happens during a Championship match or one granting them an opportunity to win a belt? Well, it's unfortunate but that's all it is, because on that day their strength or wit or attitude wasn't enough to dispose of the opponent and get what they want. I'm putting the interference and cheating out of the way because that is a whole other layer to talk about. It doesn't make those who think like Bronson bad, it doesn't mean they suck, but some days are just not theirs and things don't and won't always go their way. It's frustrating, it hurts, it's agonizing I know, but that is the world we live in. It doesn't make a man like Bronson less as a result it makes him human.
Whether he liked the way it happened or not, Bronson cleanly lost the World Heavyweight Championship. Not a traditional fashion, but his shoulders were kept on the mat for three seconds. There is nothing he can say, no amount of denying, that changes that fact. Now, he has ground to argue over his undefeated streak ending as a result of interference, but unfortunately, this business doesn't care about the way a win or loss happens. Us Elitists? We do, it matters, but the history books don't care whatsoever. I don't need to tell him how cruel the wrestling industry is and I'm not talking about the fans or his rivals.
I'm going to have to point out a few things he won't like me saying, but he needs to hear it. For his own sake. He says he is the only one willing to accept his pain and suffering to become better. That sounds odd, doesn't it? I mean, yes only he can turn his pain and suffering into something to power him forward. Absolutely, but the only one willing? Others can help him become better, help him accept his pain and suffering yes but if he doesn't allow them to do so, if he isn't willing to become better then none will get through to him. So saying he's the only one willing to accept... It feels weird. I understand what he's trying to say but the delivery on that one makes him sound delusional, especially when claims he is the only one who earned this match and deserves this win.
I say this knowing all too well that it can all become validated by a victory on Sunday. This is a victory he has a good chance to get, I haven't taken that from him this week even if I said I felt I was able to win it as much as him. I'll never deny him the fact that he worked incredibly hard to make it here, and the success he's experiencing at the moment despite the agony he lived through is undeniable. The man can win on Sunday, but he has to accept that this event doesn't belong to him. he isn't entitled to winning it and no one is. The only moment he will be able to claim with legitimacy that he deserved the win, is once the bell rings and he is the sole Elitist remaining. Not a moment before, he doesn't have to like it, but it remains the truth and this applies to everybody else, myself included.
He hasn't said so himself, this is just my take on the matter, but Bronson would more than likely prefer if wrestling operated under a leaderboard system, where matches are graded and points are awarded for various things starting with match results, but also effort, skills, and more. The kind of system where only the number one ranked player gets rewarded. Under such a system, while not at the bottom I would not be high in the standings. Fortunately for me and everybody else, we do not live under such a system. We live in a system where chances are granted on merit but also sometimes some Elitists push and shove and are allowed to take things either because they own a certain briefcase or because of how popular they are. Is it fair? This can be argued over for hours on end, but this is the way things go and Bronson has to not just live with that but accept this reality. This is the same reality where someone like me can make a living and sometimes enjoy success when granted an opportunity and can capitalize on it. This goes back to what I mentioned about the strongest doesn't win every time. It's part of life, unfair for some, brutal to others but c'est la vie.
He claims to be the one who'd rather put in the work than complain about it. But what has he done this entire week if not complain about what others think of him? Especially when he screams things like WHY AM I THIS DICKHEAD FOR JUST WANTED A PROPER DEATH? Shouldn't what others think go over his head? The truth is he shouldn't even be bothered by what others think. Bronson worked hard for the success he has yet to repeat, It makes sense for him to think he is The One but this isn't how the world works. He doesn't want to step aside to give others a chance. It's up to the others to push him out of the way. This reminds me of when a team dominates atop of the charts for a few years straight there are always people whining, but why is it the problem of the team that works better than anyone else? It ain't up to them to lower their standards so the others can have a chance, it's up to everybody else to work to not just level up but get past.
The thing is, this industry is all about fending for oneself, working for oneself, and caring only about oneself. So while Bronson has the right at the moment to consider himself the best, with proof to back his words the others who are behind will always continue to work so that they can earn opportunities of their own. We are all doing that, some succeed better than others, but we all do it. There is no 'It's my turn, you can't go until I'm done and I'm never going to be' around here. A Champion ain't done when they decide it's done, they are done when someone else finds a way to beat them. Again, the way a Champion's run ends is often up for debate over the legitimacy of how it took place I won't refute that. But unless it's submission where the Champion willingly abdicate, then it's not up to him when his reign ends. The only thing a Champion can do is what he can to prolong his tenure as long as possible. And when he doesn't have the belt, then he has to work his way back up despite others doing the same thing. It never is a matter of taking turns in this business, it's about how one finds a way to get what one wants. It's about finding a way to do better than the Champ, and unfortunately, sometimes it happens through nefarious means and while I'm not a fan of that at all unfortunately I can't do anything but accept it for what it is.
I'm almost done, hang in there.
Bronson started his his EAW career here during season 14, I remember well because I am the one who drafted him to his first brand while I was leading Showdown. When I was working on the draft I picked several Elitists who were already great such as Theron Nikolas, Kassidy Heart, Jamie O'Hara, Andrea Valentine, Consuela Ella Ava, I picked other great names such as Raven Roberts, Xavier Williams, Jack Ripley, Justin Windgate, Harlow Reichert, Darcy May Morgan, Jon Kelton. Yes, I landed on some busts and disappointments like Christian Demarco, Lucas Johnson, and Ronan Malosi but the one I'll never regret picking is the one I'm not most proud of and that's Bronson Daniels.
Looking at the star power that I drafted, both already established then and those that became powerhouses either while I was General Manager or later the one that always wanted to see succeed the most was Bronson. I didn't show it then, it wasn't part of my job to show it to him or anyone else really but in my mind, I was rooting for him. And through the years it didn't stop as I returned to only being a competitor. No matter if he wins or not on Sunday, and no matter what he thinks of me I'll always find a sense of pride about him.
No - I'm not taking any credit for his success, not a smidge, I'm just glad to be the one who opened the door for him. He stumbled and struggled for a good long while but in the end, he succeeded. He felt at some point that there would be no end in sight, but he managed to make it on the other side and the rest is history. Considering my career thus far, you understand that this is nothing short of inspiring and I want him to succeed again. The only issue is I have my career to think about. But if he manages to win, and once he becomes World Champion again no matter when it happens I'll be proud of him.
29 down, only one to go.
