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Retribution was a night to remember for many in Supreme Championship Wrestling. The biggest story was the anointing of a new World Champion, in Shaun Cruze, who finally was able to rise to the occasion, and take the reigns as the "top dog" in the organization. At the same time, people watched in horror as Syren was mangled and almost dismembered at the hands of Rachel Frost, in an epic Thunderdome match that will forever be implanted in the memories of those who watched. Then there was a match that had a lot of buzz, but obviously wasn't as grusome or spectacular as the previous two, and that was the United States Championship match, which also served as the rubber match, between Ryan Watson and Jake Starr.
Many people watched this match on the edge of their seat. A lot of questions would be answered, and the legitimacy of Jake Starr would be defined as either real, or a blip. Those who have been watching SCW for any period of time know these two do NOT enjoy losing, nor do they enjoy the idea of someone else being "better" than them. More importantly, everyone knew that with the United Stated Title on the line, both would be at their best. The match didn't disappoint, and in the end saw Jake Starr retain his championship, and in the eyes of many, validate his status as the rightful champion. The victory was a sweet one for Jake. His record against people who seemed to "have his number," as of late, hasn't been the best, and his goal of righting the ship in 2014, he felt, hinged on beating Watson one more time. More importantaly, he needed to know that he could rise to the occasion and defend a championship against a formidable opponent. Jake needed to know that he wasn't someone who would just win a big match here or there, but could be the guy people leaned on as one of the true "top performers" in the industry. Going forward, Jake knows the challenges will continue to get more and more difficult. He saw the competition that lies ahead of him, especially with the word that he is cashing in his Trios contract at Rise to Greatness. Jake knows that the level he would have to strive for to match the likes of Shaun Cruze is a different animal all together. He also knows that with each opponent he knocks off, much like his Adrenaline Championship days, more and more competitors will come his way, all with the desire to knock him off. He remembers the feeling he had, when Greg Cherry ended his stellar reign, and if he's going to chase history again, he can't fall into that feeling of complacency again. One of the things still troubling him outside the ring is the behavior of his nephew Thören. The last time Jake saw Thören, Thören made no bones about the fact he wanted Jake to leave him alone, and get out of his way. Thören believed that Jake was trying to "mold" him, versus what Jake was intending to do, which was guide him away from the possibilities that he would stray from an ideal path in the business. After meeting with Thören, Jake's wife could tell something went wrong. He didn't talk about it with her, and said he needed to process it all first. She respected his wishes, and has left him be for the time being. Jake decides that Roeper isn't the best bet for the "first person" he should talk to. Since she's family, she'll interpret it as something more drastic and family-related, and Jake can see that right now, it's turning personal between he and Thören. Jake decides to call up Brandon, who was deeply involved with the process of trying to "educate" Thören, and hopes maybe he and Brandon can formulate the best course of action going forward. Brandon was already heading out for lunch, and told Jake to simply meet him at the cafe he was going to dine at. Jake didn't go into much detail with Brandon beforehand, but Brandon figures that it's about Thören, and it's serious. He figures that what he "read" off of Thören's body language isn't what happened, and is antsy to figure out what's next. As Jake arrives at the cafe, he approaches the table where Brandon is already seated, and chowing down. Brandon looks up, and speaks, even though his mouth is full of food, and welcomes Jake. Brandon Evans: What up?! Have a seat! Jake Starr: Are you Ethiopian? Brandon Evans: No... Why? Jake Starr: Because you're eating like you're a starved one... It's either that, or you're training for a marathon, and you're carb loading. Brandon Evans: Nah... I just have a case of the munchies. Jake raises his eyebrows.
Jake Starr: Taken a trip to Colorado recently? Brandon Evans: Nope... I don't need to go to Colorado to get my shit! Jake smirks and chuckles.
Brandon Evans: ... So how did the meeting with Thören go? Roeper mentioned you went out to meet with him, and talk things over. I've been quite curious as to how that all went over, after what he saw. Jake sighs.
Jake Starr: ... Yeah... About that... Brandon Evans: Things went that well, huh? Jake Starr: About as well as having dinner with your rapist. Brandon cringes.
Brandon Evans: Ooph! Brandon shakes his head in disbelief.
Brandon Evans: ... Man, I could have sworn that he really got something out of that, and caught the gist of everything. I mean I saw the look in his eyes when he realized that he was sitting in the same room where he had died, and all. He was completely terrified. Jake nods.
Jake Starr: Yeah... From what you said, I thought the same thing. And he did admit that it was a pretty horrifying experience, and I could see that it did touch him, but he said it wasn't in the way that we had intended it. Brandon Evans: What do you mean? Jake Starr: Basically... Thören realized he didn't want to overdose on drugs. He didn't realize or comprehend that this business, this money, this ease of, well, EVERYTHING, was what could lead you down a path right to it. What he got out of it was that we were trying to "mold" him into something we wanted, and not just take it as the fucking advice we were giving him. The dude was completely dense about it all! It got to the point where I wanted to slap his ass because he decided to start acting all big, bad, and tough. Brandon cocks an eyebrow, quite shocked at the assertion that Thören would have done that.
Brandon Evans: ... What did he do? Jake Starr: Dude got all up in my face, and tried to "talk big" to me. It was honestly the first time that, since Ron and I had our altercation during arbitration, that I've felt myself go completely "into character" with someone in my own family. Brandon chuckles.
Brandon Evans: ... Well did you cut a promo on him? The thought of cutting a full promo on his nephew makes Jake laugh out loud.
Jake Starr: No... I wanted to, but I figured it wasn't worth the effort. I was more inclined to slap the taste out of his mouth, and tell him how wrong he was. THAT was hard to hold back from. Brandon Evans: Hell... I probably wouldn't ave. I'd have probably slapped the little shit... Jake Starr: You also wouldn't have had anything to lose. If I slap him, then I'm the bad guy. He'd run crying to the rest of the family, and spin it so he was the victim, and I was somehow jealous. Brandon Evans: Well... You want me to go find him, and slam him? I mean, you know I'll do it for you, right? Jake laughs again.
Jake Starr: Oh I have no doubt, but no. I'm past it all. I'm looking more "big picture" now. If he wants to be stupid, and wants to be the "big man," then when he screws up and it all comes crashing down, he'll come groveling back. When it happens, I'll be sure that he realizes what is happening, and more importantly WHY it's happening. He'll also have some pretty stiff conditions if he wants advice. The fact of the matter is, I'm not dealing with some ungreatful, punk, kid... On top of it all, part of me worries that this is going to turn uglier before it gets better... Brandon leans back, and starts to get a bit of a "confident" look in his eye.
Brandon Evans: Well you know... I COULD be of some assistance. I could find someone who could hopefully get through to him, and make him listen. Jake Starr: He wouldn't listen... No matter who it is talking. The dude is being a complete tool, and not listening to anyone or anything. Brandon nods, and smirks.
Brandon Evans: I know people who can get through to ANYONE. If Thören won't listen to the usual suspects, I can bring forth the true voice of reason. This time, it's Jake's turn to cock an eyebrow. He decides to humor Brandon.
Jake Starr: Ok... So who in the hell is your magical "voice of reason?" Brandon goes to reply, but before he can do so, a voice creeps into his ear. A man is hiding behind Jake's chair, and as Brandon sees him, his eyes widen, and the voice speaks.
Gary Busey: Have I ever told you what the word "holy" actually means? "Holding Onto Love for Yahweh!" Jake immediately recognizes the voice, the speech pattern, and the really pointless explanation, and in recognizing this, his head drops. Without lifting his head, he speaks out to Brandon.
Jake Starr: Must you ALWAYS insist on bringing Gary fucking Busey EVERYWHERE with you? Gary stands up from crouching behind Jake.
Gary Busey: I am not with Brandon, Jacob. I am in the shadows in the light! Jake raises his head up, completely befuddled at what Gary just said. His eyes squint, looking Brandon's way, showing that he is officially lost. Even though he realizes this may not be the best idea, Jake turns around to face Gary Busey. Gary stands there in a very awkward "Gary Busey Manner," and has the typical smile that he is, now, famous for sporting.
Jake Starr: Ok... For the record, you cannot be in the shadows AND in the light. That contradicts itself. The "disbelief" in Jake's voice does not stymie the smile on Gary's face.
Gary Busey: No... Jake Starr: Yes... It's impossible... Gary Busey: It isn't Jacob. It is very possible. In a moment that makes Brandon wonder if Jake can make educated decisions, Jake keeps the conversation going.
Jake Starr: ... Ok... Then tell me JUST HOW you can IN THE SHADOWS AND IN THE LIGHT all at the same time. Gary is unphased.
Gary Busey: Well Jacob, the answer is simple... Jake Starr: Ok... Gary Busey: The answer is Jesus. Jake's face, again, goes from slightly annoyed, to completely confused. Instead of seeing the confusion as just that, confusion, Gary sees it as someone who is truly taking in the "depth" of what he just said.
Gary Busey: I will let you take your time to think about that. I can tell you're trying to make sense of the Lord, and he's not easy to make sense of. Jake Starr: Well... Not easy to make sense of is one way of phrasing it, yes... Brandon realizes he needs to get rid of Busey in some way, shape, or form, and decides to try an old movie trick. He looks off in the distance, and points. Gary immediately turns his head, as does Jake.
Brandon Evans: Gary... Over there... A heathon in need of guidance! Apparently Gary doesn't see him.
Gary Busey: Where? Where must this disciple of the Lord spread the good news? Brandon Evans: He's over there, in the shadows... Jake mumbles under his breath.
Jake Starr: ... In the light... Gary Busey: Eureeka, I see him! Brandon looks confused, and Jake turns to look back at Brandon, as Gary dashes off.
Brandon Evans: Don't even ask... I didn't see anyone... Jake Starr: No shit... But it's Gary, and he's probably just excited someone else finally sees the "special people" he talks to all of the time... Brandon shrugs.
Jake Starr: ... And why is he here, anyway? Brandon Evans: He's ALWAYS here... I don't ask him to be anywhere, he's just ALWAYS THERE! And don't get me wrong, I figured he might be of assistance, but I never actually volunteer the idea that he show up. Well maybe once... But not this time. He's like a dog, and just follows me. Jake Starr: Well that's for one of two reasons... Brandon Evans: I'm afraid to ask... Jake Starr: One... He realizes you're the only person who is on his "special" wavelength... Brandon isn't amused.
Brandon Evans: And two...? Jake Starr: ... You're the only one who doesn't treat him like he's certifiably insane. Brandon shrugs.
Brandon Evans: That one is entirely possible... Just remember that he's an option. He tends to make people actually listen. Jake's tone immediately goes back to being serious, as it pertains to his nephew.
Jake Starr: Listen... About Thören... This isn't a joke. He's being stupid, and if he doesn't implode on himself, I'm genuinely worried about how stupid he's going to be. Brandon Evans: Jake... Seriously... What could he possibly do? Jake Starr: I don't know. But part of me, in my gut, worries that we need to be ready for some kind of "battle" for "control." He's out to become the "star member" of the family, and I won't lie, I'm wondering if he won't try to rile up Roeper's side of the family, starting with her father. I'm hoping I'm wrong, but I just don't know. Brandon realizes the time for funny has come and gone, and shifts into "serious mode."
Brandon Evans: Alright... What can I do to help? Jake Starr: Just be ready for something. I don't know whether it's a war, a battle, a struggle, or nothing at all, but I need you to be ready for "the call." If he tries to stir shit up, we need to act, and act quickly. Honestly, I hope I'm just being fucking paranoid. I hope I'm wrong, and something about what happened I misread. I just don't think that's the case. I don't know, though... That's what I hate. Brandon Evans: I can do that... What're you going to do? Jake Starr: I think the best move for me is to play this by ear, at first. If I'm wrong, I can't be the spark that turns him onto the warpath. I would rather feel silly to myself, seeing that he's just doing his own thing, and wanted to sound like he was tough shit. This is something Thören needs to make the first move on... Not me. I just need to be sure my ducks are in a row, in case we need to mobilize. Brandon Evans: I'll be ready for whatever... Just let me know. Jake Starr: Good... And while you're at it, can you try and ditch Busey? The LAST thing I need is him trying to "help" by being a lunatic preacher man. With those last words, Brandon laughs, and goes back to eating. The waitress comes over, and asks for Jake's order as well, and the two break away into inane, friendly, chit-chat. In the distance, Gary Busey is seen talking to a tree that's in the shadow of the building it is near, and for some reason, he feels like it's a human being. Jake looks over his shoulder and sees the stupidity happening, and just sighs, before acting like he has nothing to do with what is going on.
While all this is happening, Jake's mind races with the notion that another familial battle could loom on the horizon. It's the last thing he wants or needs, especially since he's finally gotten the "peace" that everyone has always wanted. The troublesome part is the uncertainty of what Thören may do. He doesn't know if his paranoia is substantiated, or if he's just completely stupid for thinking someone would do that. He knows Thören has the desire to be the "superstar," but doesn't know the lengths at which he'd be willing to go to get it. Jake Starr: I walked into Retribution with a goal. I walked in with the mentality that "retribution" would turn into VINDICATION. Since the day I became the United States Champion, people questioned my devotion to this belt. People questioned whether or not I would be able to keep my eyes and focus on it, and not shift to something bigger. People assumed I would just try to springboard back to the World Title picture because "that is what Jake Starr does." I think Retribution proved to the masses that their stupidity and naivity was, in fact, wrong! See, when it comes to believing in this championship, I am all in. Sure, I have the Trios contract, and have made my plans known, but it doesn't mean that I forget what I have set out to do. When I beat Ryan, the first time, it wasn't just a moment where I got my dream. Instead it was the springboard to my year. It was the moment where I would show that I was back. People doubted me. People didn't believe that I would be able to sustain the momentum, and I did so. Fighting at Retribution, I knew Watson was coming at me with everything he could muster, and I knew I would have to step my game up. I knew I would have to beat him down, BREAK HIS WILL, and show the world that Jake Starr is truly superior to anyone and EVERYONE. I succeeded. I proved to the world that this championship isn't a springboard to a "bigger belt," but a springboard to a successful year. I showed everyone that my dedication to representing this belt to the fullest is LEGIT! Now that I have shown the world that Retribution was pure VINDICATION, I can move forward, and see what is next. I can go out there and continue to prove to myself and others that I am worthy of this championship. I want to continue to move up the ladder of the "greatest US Champions in SCW history," and continue to turn heads. I still feel I have a long way to go to really capture the beliefs of everyone. The reason is, this belt is something many people want. You see a lot of people who can't compete for the World Championship go for this initially, as their way to begin to establish themselves as one of the "big names" in SCW. At the same time, this is also a belt that some of those people who falter up top seem to try and chase because they fail... ... And that is why I wanted to give my suggestions to Big Daddy D on Breakdown. Unfortunately for me, he apparently felt it wasn't high on his priority list, and decided that whatever his ideas are were better. He also decided that Jake Starr plus a steel chair isn't something that worries him right now. Which is funny... It actually makes me laugh that his memory is so short. It makes me laugh that he doesn't remember what SCW was like when Jake Starr and his trusty chair were running rampant on everyone... And I emphasize EVERYONE! See, unlike most of the time, when I seem to focus on whomever Mr. D has decided will be my "feud of the moment," when I was out there trying to prove that I was the most deserving of a World Title shot, in 2012, I was extremely indiscriminate. I wasn't picky about who I swung Chairee at, nor was I picky about what trouble it got me in. Jake lifts Chairee up, and looks at "her."
We made a lot of people's lives hell, didn't we? Jake smirks, and looks back at the camera. He lowers Chairee back to his side.
It got to the point, in 2012, that the Board of Directors had to get involved. They had to put an ultimatum on me, and ruled that I had to stop beating the hell out of EVERYONE, and in return I would get a World Title shot. They had to negotiate with the terrorist, who was out there ruining their show. So when Mr. D decides to try and talk about how it's the least of his problems, maybe he should think about the fact that I've been KIND enough to not make it the highest of his problems, and he should THANK me for it. He should thank me that I have allowed SCW to not have to have everyone looking over their shoulder, wondering if they're next. Yeah... I put that fear of God into people... I made people worried that they would be next on my hit list... The fact is, if Mr. D wants to push me to the side, and forget what I am capable of, I can play that game and remind him. I can remind him why I should be high on his priority list. If he decides to have these ideas like the battle royal, or if he decides to push someone who hasn't earned the right to be in my league, then I will NOT HESITATE to begin a rampage that people will, once again, fear. I am not looking for one of those challengers who the suits feel sorry for because they were in a pay-per view, and couldn't win the World Championship. Those people lost, and those people should be pushed to the back of lines, JUST LIKE I WAS! I was forced to wait for ANYTHING, after losing, so if they respect me, if they respect this championship, they should make people go through the same BULLSHIT I went through. If they don't... I will NOT be held accountable for my actions because they will have brought it on themsleves. Just like in 2012, I am out for respect. I have earned my keep, and if people are not going to be held to the same standards as Jake Starr, expect me to not play nicely! Jake lifts Chairee up again, and talks to "her" again.
Sound good? Good! Chairee is lowered back down.
Now going forward, especially with Breakdown, it is already seemingly turning into a clusterfuck, and for once, it's not because of me. Firstly, you have my partner, Matt Auclair. When I heard he and I would be teaming, I sat there and went, "oh goodie!" And don't worry... There was definitely sarcasm there. Sure, he went out at Retribution and shocked the world by upsetting David Helms, and getting a shot at the Underground Championship, but that doesn't mean I think much of him. See, the reason I don't think highly of him is because he can't keep his shit together. I get a call that says, "Hey Jake, you know that Auclair guy, yeah he just got the shit beaten out of him in Austin." At first, I didn't care. Then they explained that his condition is unknown, and nobody knows what is going to happen going forward. I don't know if I'll be able to trust that his ass will be there, and that I don't appreciate. Quite frankly, it'll be the SECOND TIME in 2014 that I would have had to deal with a menacing tag team by myself, or possibly without someone all there in my corner. Jake waves at the camera with a cheesy grin on his face.
Hey James... Yeah... Talking about you, here! Jake goes back to the topic at hand.
... So I don't like the thought of having to do everything on my own. I don't appreciate people not keeping their shit together. Sure, one of the members of Requiem is the person who jumped Auclair, and sure she is TECHNICALLY suspended, but let's be honest here... When has suspensions ever really kept someone from making their presence known? More importantly, look at who Requiem is... You have two complete lunatics, who are willing to do everything in their powers to inflict harm on anyone and everyone. The two Rachels are two people I would legitimately worry about doing harm to me. So why in the hell should I not be worried about the two of them? Why shouldn't I worry that Auclair may not even make it to Breakdown? Why should I trust that it'll just be Foxx and I, battling again? I can't do any of that. I can't trust in anything. I have to believe that I am going into the slaughterhouse, and I'm not going to come out quite well on the other end. So what am I going to do? What is Jake Starr going to do to try and overcome these shitty odds? Well the world knows that Rachel Foxx and I have tangled in the past. More importantly, they know we have had a pseudo-friendship in the past as well. Unlike some people who have made friends "across the aisle," we never had that evil fallout. We have never lost that respect for one another, and honestly, though we haven't spoken in some time, I still have a deep respect and fondness for her. Does she have the same for me? I don't have a fucking clue. She's ruthless, and she's willing to destroy anyone in her path. Knowing that, I have to hope the respect is still there. I have to hope Rachel Foxx is in the same boat as I am. I have to hope that she's not angered. If she's in the same boat, she and I will fight, she won't try and kill me, and we can move on after the fact. If she's not... I'm in for a fight... With that uncertainty, I have to mentally prepare for everything that could be possible. I have to go out there and anticipate a fight. I have to know that the odds of me having Auclair backing me, and having to NOT face Requiem alone is slim. Whether Foxx still has the respect for me or not, her cohort, I guarantee, has no problem hurting me and beating the shit out of me. And if her suspension is real, and Rachel finds herself another partner, that person won't have any trouble trying to take me out. Breakdown is going to be a war! Jake swallows the saliva in his mouth, and lets out a deep breath.
As the US Champion, I have to be prepared for war. No matter what may come, no matter what the odds, I have to go out there and compete. I did so with a "mystery partner" who never showed up, against The Watsons, and I'll do it, if I have to, against Requiem. I won't run away, if it turns out that I have to fight two demonic souls, and hope to live through it. My goal, of making 2014 the true comeback year for Jake Starr, has to continue no matter what, and no matter who. If Auclair is there, great. If I can actually trust him, I don't know, but if someone is at least there against these two, it'll be better than being alone. But if I'm alone... I will make sure I fight... Jake lifts Chairee over his shoulder.
If I'm alone, and it turns into a war, then I will bring a friend with me, and I will do whatever it takes. If it goes as a "loss" then oh-fucking-well. Much like my match with Christy Matthews in the Challenge Series, if the odds are against me, and my back is against the wall, I come out swinging... LITERALLY! I have to look out for my career. amd what will be best for me. This is MY YEAR. I can't be the United States Champion who has been bloodlet, and is missing limbs. But that doesn't mean I'll hide. It doesn't mean that I'll back away. I'm the guy who will ALWAYS step up, and ALWAYS fight. So if it's one Rachel... Two Rachels... By myself... With Auclair... It doesn't fucking matter to me. I will be there. I will be ready to do whatever I can to walk out of there in one piece. I have to show the world that I am not phased by shitty odds. I have to prove that I am out to do something special this year, one match at a time. I will not back down! This is my year! Ever moment is MY MOMENT! Breakdown will be no different. Fin |
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