Post by Icon Lord Leon Corbin on Feb 5, 2013 15:47:41 GMT -6
Coming to life with the flashes of every GroundZero Wrestling show title, Globalstars fade in and out to the beat of the music, getting faster and faster until the sound of an explosion brings the infamous mushroom cloud and the image:
NIGHTS AT THE ROUND TABLE
With the backdrop of the GroundZero logo, the set followed the theme of the Nights at the Round Table, reds and browns as the camera zooms in on the round table in the centre. Around the table, were three with papers in front of them along with glasses of water. Two males, one female as the focus rested on one in particular. In a beige suit, the blonde haired “brother” of Lady Hikari.
William: Good evening folks, and welcome to the first of many discussion shows, otherwise known as Nights at the Round Table. The only show where the true insiders can give you their honest, hopefully unbiased opinions of the ins and out of the Gloabverse. I am William Stone and of course I am joined by my co-hosts.
The camera moves onto the long-time commentator, donning his silver suit and grin.
Samson: Joshua Samson or as the homies like to call me Jay Smooth...trust me I'm big in them streets just like I'm big in the sheets.
He gives the only female panellist a playful growl as the camera leaves him for her, showing her in her black business suit and long black hair flowing down the front.
Catherine: I'm Catherine Cavanaugh and I am not impressed Joshua...
Samson: Give it time, give it time...
William: Er…..right, and with that thought inflicting itself on all of our minds. Let’s start off on a predictable foot here. The World title…..Our current Champion has received a lot of negativity from colleagues and press alike.
Samson: You sure you want to talk about Lady Itty Bitty, Willie. Isn't she your sister in some strange complex way?
William: And our current World Champion. Doesn’t matter who she is outside the wrestling world, right now were talking about her contributions in it.
Samson: Don't get a catty, Willie Boy. I was just asking.
Catherine: I do not see the relevance of the out of ring relationship, Joshua. This is an unbiased panel, just what the Globalverse are expecting.
Samson: Well answer the question then. Jeez, I'd have an easier time with Patticake and Crumbbum.
Joshua turns to the hard camera and gives a wink and thumbs up. William shakes his head, reaching for his water.
Catherine: I have a mixed opinion on this subject myself. Just as the Globalverse has right now according to social media posts by the fans. While there are some fans who are behind her one hundred percent, there are others, notably the older fans who question her longevity when it comes to her career. You'd be surprised just how much the dedicated people who have followed us for the years the company has remembered and one thing they haven't forgotten is her lack of commitment that sent her back to TroubleTrax. Question is, whether she is anymore ready now than she was then?
Samson: That's a good point. One I'm really inclined to agree with. I honestly like Lady Itty Bitty. There is a tremendous upside to her. She has youth, a following that is clearly growing, and she is proving to be highly marketable amongst the demographic of females you and the rest of the suits of the company are catering to with the current product the past few years.
William: Meanwhile there’s a huge side of the market who she just isn’t touching. Of course you can’t please everybody, but is it really smart to alienate a large part of what you already have?
Samson: But when have had a World Champ that doesn't alienate some portion of the viewing audience? No matter what era you pick, no matter what champion you pick you will see that he or she didn't appeal to everyone.
Catherine: You speak of demographic females. Are we getting desperate now? We have been blessed with Kandi Fortune-Corbin, Elexia Croix-Fortune, Eva Hikari, Davina Cameron. Can we really put Munin on that same pedestal with women who really did change women's wrestling? If we are looking for young, fresh blood with potential, we should be looking at the likes of Piper Sanchez or Kate Gilespie who have shown passion and reach out to the fans. We have also been losing male fans who have felt GroundZero Global have been trying too hard to be politically correct instead of giving them what they actually want to see.
Samson: But all these chicks started from the basement as well. Those same male fans that are in an uproar now about Lady Itty Bitty were making a fuss when Tonya Glory, not Elexia, became the first female World Champion. They cried when Kandi was battling the big boys in main events. They pretty much took a piss break when Lady Sugar Britches slept her way to the top. Trust me, I'm probably the most piggish dude this side of Icon Alex Hunt, when I say that any guy that is not tuning in to see chicks wrestle probably is related to Todd Crumb in some form or fashion.
He takes a sip from the glass of water on the table in front of him.
Samson: And as far as female Globalstars like Piper and Kate, I think Lady Itty Bitty at the time gives them further inspiration.
Catherine: I beg to differ, Joshua. You need to see it from the point of view of the office as well. Of course all those women came from the bottom but Munin is not someone who has just turned up, she has been here for a number of years now. Of course the fans tune in to see wrestling, male and female alike but the shows are not daily, they are periodic. We rely on the time in between to be utilised by the Globalstars to whet the appetites of the viewers so they WANT to tune in. The others may have started at the bottom but they made real efforts and strides, they took the business and put it in a stranglehold. They made people care and keep watching. For an example, and this is not relative to male or female, look back at the Coliseum tournaments. How much of a big deal was it to those who fought all their way? The prize at the end meant so much to them, it was as if there was huge event AFTER it was all said and done. The fans got to experience history, the moment was special. Those were nights that made those fans go home with memories to cherish. 2012 offered none of that. There was no celebration. There was as much effort in the after party as there was throughout her career and it is a concern in the long run. I don't see passion, I see an opportunist and that has never been good for business. Just look at Rupert Martin for instance.
William: Ouch, alright folks. Let’s not go there…..There are a lot of good points here, from both perspectives. You are technically both right, but I believe that if anything was going to happen to convince the naysayers they are wrong. It would have by now. It’s been how long since LOTC? Long enough for a mark to be left or an impact made.
Samson: That's true but if we take what Cathy has said about looking at it from an office perspective, what is the Executuve Committee and all those other names suit wearing people like you doing to push Lady Itty Bitty to get her over with the Globaverse as a whole? If the Ground Zero machine can get a once upon a time loser like John Champa over they should be able to do the same for Lady Itty Bitty.
William: I should remind you I am merely Hikari’s manager. Though to address your point. A suit can only do so much to sell someone. If they do nothing themselves, and frankly for the most part that is what we are seeing here. Then of course we will have lacklustre champions nobody cares about. Although in all reality, if our champion can’t convince the world why they are the best of the best, then what the hell are they doing representing the company?
Samson: Well the question was addressed to our resident corporate officer here. But your question is best answer by her not me.
Catherine: To respond to your previous question, there is only so much the board can do. I hate to use the old adage but you can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink. The truth can be said for every Globalstar. We do believe everyone should have their chance, and while some who may have even been unsuspecting, run with the ball once given, others don't quite manage it. We do use this to make big stars and likely always will but eyes are constantly on them to see what they do with the opportunity. The fans interest relies heavily on momentum. It's one of the main draws. Now I am not saying this cannot happen with the current World champion, but I am reserving my right to be sceptical at this time. All our wages so to speak rely on everyone within the company to be good at what they do, whether it is the administration, to the road agents, referees, wrestlers. As one big machine, all elements have to pull their weight to make it work, to make it move.
Taking her glass from the table, she takes a sip from it.
Catherine: And just because they managed to make a champion out of John Champa does not necessarily mean it applies to all. John Champa has a natural passion for the sport and a strong personality to boot. These are two traits that almost every great champion has possessed and that is why when placed at the top he was able to pull it off.
Turning to the male on the other side of her, she sets her glass back down.
Catherine: To answer you, William. It's a chance we take. Whether that chance pays off remains to be seen. Bear in mind that there are powers higher than those listed on the staff roll so just because presidents, commissioners and other executive members put certain things into place, it does not always mean they are in total agreement with them.
Samson: I knew there was a reason why I thought you were sexy!
Catherine: I'm sure you say that to all the women, Joshua, though it would be wise not to say it to me.
Samson chuckles refraining from further commenting.
William: We’ve addressed the issue of our World Champion, but what about the rest of them? A lot of titles active right now seem to be without direction.
Catherine: I don't think that's entirely true. The recent crowning of the "Wild Card" Eddie Knoxville Television champion stands to be very promising. Vitamin G did well to hold Quarrie at bay and stop him from taking the TV title to Japan. That's not to say Quarrie couldn't have done well there with it but it's not a risk the board was prepared to take if it could be helped. Plus with Azrael involving himself, to the degree he did, there is much potential there for the TV title to get great exposure. Let us not forget that the TV title has had some of the best over the years, World class in fact, quite literally.
Samson: Couldn't have said it better unless I said it...hahaa! The "Wild Card" Eddie Knoxville TV title always seems like it’s unfocused but there always seems to be a hot feud going on. I think the division that is lacking is the Intercontinental one. Champa HAD to take on an undeserving Sean Locke AGAIN.
Catherine: Sadly this has been a growing concern. We've heard Sean make promise after promise but they are never delivered. To be honest with you, after his suspension for illegal substances, you'd think he would seize an opportunity he may have never gotten again. Is the Intercontinental title scene lacking? I'd like to think Kolic hasn't simply given up on Champa or the first singles title he got here so easily. Plus with Champa becoming something of a sympathiser to the Slaughterhouse, a confrontation between the two may be inevitable. Having said that, with John Champa's current contract complications, the board have been somewhat dubious until he either signs or not. He is valuable to the company, it would be a shame for his ego to ruin that.
Samson: You guys would be a goddamn fool not to sign Champa. Hell, give him anything he wants in my book. It took him a while to get there but he's definitely money.
Catherine: Yet he needs to understand that he cannot just hold the company to ransom.
William: Why not? He wouldn't be the first talent to have the company meet his whims.
Catherine: Of whom are you referring to, William?
William: Depends on which rumour mill you want to believe, does that. Take a look at most of the kids in this playground. It'd be easier to spot one who hadn't spat their dummy out when it came to renewing their contracts. How may title shots and main event matches have come out of contract stand offs.
Samson: Willie Nillie does have a point, Cathy. Those are isolated situations though. GZW2K1 would have nothing but egg on their face if they allow Champa to walk into another company, especially not one under the Ground Zero Global umbrella, especially holding the second highest championship in the company.
Catherine: I beg to differ and I'll tell you why. No matter what, GroundZero Global is the front runners when it comes to televised wrestling, it truly covers every area of the sport. While John Champa has become a household name in the sport, it's not that easy to bring that over to another company as we have seen so much in the past. How many Globalstars have we had try and walk into GZW with an ego because of accomplishments in lesser federations? When hiring a new wrestler, you want them to become a big name for YOUR brand, not appear as some sort of hand-me-down so the stars are broken down and rebuilt in our image. John has done some amazing things here but it won't mean anything anywhere else. Not to mention the rate of pay is unparalleled. Besides, there is a clause in all contracts that forbids taking titles outside GZG, which is why Quarrie stood the chance to take the TV title to UJW had he won it.
Samson: So that stops him from exploiting outside of GZG, but what about inside of it? You don't think HKWF would love to stick it to GZW2K1 by meeting the demands of Champa while he's the GZW IC Champ? Or imagine him going over to Canada and joining CSW. A major coup for them and Champa could be a damn king there!
William: King is a little overzealous don’t you think? The man is good and dedicated, but he’s no bloody Icon. Why are we even having this conversation to begin with? The question shouldn’t be will he, won’t he? It should be how soon before we see him back in the World title scene thanks to his years of undying service. He’s a household name because of the fact that he’s consistent with what he does. Is that enough to take HKWF by Storm? Doubt it, how about CSW? Well those Canadians are a funny lot but the man knows where his bread’s buttered. He’s not going to jump ship, and I’ll tell you for why. He has it easy here.
Catherine: I agree with the fact that he won't jump ship. His contract negotiations have been going on for a while already. If HKWF or CSW had an interest, an offer would have been made already and without a doubt John would have exposed it in a bid to tip the scales further for what he feels he wants, adding that sense of urgency for GZW to meet with his demands. This hasn't happened. Besides, John is a performer who likes a crowd the bigger it is. He likes the fact we get Global exposure. Our sister companies do not operate the same way. Their fans are much more close knit, like a family, almost. Not every wrestler wants that.
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William: And we’re back from us trying to shove our latest merch down your throat. Before the break we were discussing the title scene and all those in it. So without further Champa hype. Do you not think we have a few titles too many? I mean there are some doing nothing right now. The tag belts, the women’s title……
Catherine: You sound an awful lot like "BDR". We have the right amount of titles that spans across all areas. I agree the two you mention need some work but the competition is there. It really is down to them to want to go after them. We already done away with titles like the United States championship and the Extreme title in more recent times. I see no reason to keep discontinuing even more. If we are worried titles mean nothing then throwing them in and out of activity devalues them more. I did think Davina Cameron would have concentrated on the title more than we've seen, especially after being partially responsible for it being reinstated but I feel with Piper Sanchez getting hungrier to the point she is acting out of character for what we are used to, she may get the wake up call she's been needing for awhile. I think she got too comfortable once Kandi was put out of action and Kate cooled off. The tag titles have often been seen in a negative light but it amazes me with the amount of people who have shown unity, that more aren't trying to challenge for them. It's time something happened. Kolic has been resting on the tag titles, clocking up a long reign and I wonder if that is deliberate.
Samson: I always thought the Women's title was more a vanity title if anything. However my girl Davina got the title reinstated, she did it simply because she felt she deserved a title. It's not the title was handed to her. She defeated not one but two other females Globalstars for it. Now that she has it she has basically dominated the division of those that could rightfully challenge for it. Can a feud with Piper Sanchez reignite the fire in the division? Who really knows honestly?
Swivelling in his chair, Joshua looks from William to Catherine before continuing.
Samson: As far as Godboy..er Kolic and the tag titles, when have those titles really meant anything in GZW2K1? I've been around here a LOOONGGG time and not once has that division garnered any kind of sustained heat. The modern Globalstar is just too selfish to want to share a title.
William: Exactly!
Catherine: There have been some great teams who have had heat though. The board has been split a few times on letting those particular teams run with that heat. I wonder if the Globalstars actually realise just what those titles could mean to them if they looked deep enough. It's not just about being selfish. After all, it's not as if they must choose between wrestling solo or as a team. But considering some of the stables we have and have had, team titles should be very significant. I'd even go as far as consider it symbolic of what they are doing.
Samson: I definitely agree with you. If I was running this ship for at least two months I would have highlight nothing but tag team action. It's going to take the full concentrated efforts of the bigwigs to MAKE the Globalstars want to care about those titles.
William: It’ll take more than that. It’s not just about the titles themselves. Do we even have any valid teams on the roster right now? And even if we do, the current champ is flying solo.
Samson: You got Nobunin for sure. I would definitely look to throwing together Killjoy and Kaliban the Brutal as at Aftermath2K12 they have shown they work well together. Um...oh yeah Vyper and Phantom are another pairing.
Catherine: There are teams, teams who are willing and know how to be in a tag team. But I think it's time the tag titles were brought to the forefront. I do not believe Kolic should hide them behind his back any longer. With him missing his partner, you have to wonder if anyone is even sure what to do there. Definitely something to be discussed with the Commissioner.
Samson: More like the President. Oh yeah...
Samson snickers while Catherine shakes her head.
Catherine: I'm astonished you could find any kind of humour in that subject, Joshua. Very distasteful.
William: See, I was trying to avoid going there. What with the Twirker explosion of threats and well wishers….
Samson: What?! My agent told me NOTHING was off limits when I signed on. We're here to discuss all things Ground Zero Global. Well it happened and deserves to be discussed.
William: That’s true, but at the same time that opens the ground for a very angry Nathan Williams. After all.....If I ran over my missus, first thing I'd do is threaten everyone to make it look like I was genuinely upset. Suppose there are other suspects though. Raze, Old man Corbin......Both erratic men led by their tempers.
Catherine: Let's not forget that Angel had been arguing with the Slaughterhouse before it happened as well, and it wasn't for the first time either. Truth be told, there are a myriad of possibilities. It just saddens me to think that someone would need to take it to this level. Last news we've received was that Angel is comatose right now. That's a serious offence and not only will the authorities be informed once we find out, I am sure there will be further consequences.
William: Of course, although we both know that’s not always the case.
Catherine: We are not talking about the hazards of the workplace, wrestling that can go too far. Angel is not a Globalstar, there should be no physical interaction there at all. What if the worst was to happen, God forbid? This is most definitely punishable.
Samson: I wasn't trying to be insensitive to what happened. That hit-and-run on an executive was beyond the scope of wrestling. I do hope that the person or persons responsible for this is caught and punished to the fullest extent of the law.
William: With that in mind, the impact on Nathan Williams right now must be huge. You have to wonder how this will affect his career.
Catherine: On a pure logical point of view, it gives him more of an edge as far as running for GZW president is concerned. He knows he's aging and as resilient as he is, he's knows the clock is against him as far as wrestling is concerned. He's proven many times that when he wants something he will go and get it at any cost and a foot in the door to extend his future in the sport and the company is reason enough. That is not to say he is responsible, just to make that perfectly clear.
Samson: Wait, wait, wait. Are you two trying to say that Icon Rexxy offed his wife?
William: I should probably say right now, that the views expressed here are not necessarily the views of the Globalverse on a whole. With that in mind, I wouldn’t put it past him.
Samson: That's a very dangerous accusation to make, Willie Nillie. I know you're use to all that drama in your family but there is no way Icon Rexxy would do that. No way.
Catherine: The world we live in today is very drama orientated at times. It's impossible to rule anything out.
Samson: So you want to point the finger at a hard working family man and husband but want to overlook the obvious criminal here? If anyone has motive and is deranged enough it's that vagrant Raze.
Catherine: I was in no way pointing the finger at anyone in particular, just that I would rule nothing out. Saying that, I thought it odd he was the last to know and continued the evening at Aftermath as if nothing happened. It was well broadcast, the entire building knew what happened.
Samson: Yet Raze is recorded issuing a threat to her. Add into that he just got out of jail for brutally assaulting Billy Diamond-Remarkable. BDR told me that he has lost nearly fifteen percent feeling in his back and neck.
Catherine: Only time will tell at this stage. There are several suspects, and Raze is definitely among them.
William: But is it really his style? Hasn’t he shown in the past that he prefers his actions to be blatant?
Samson: He knows he's skating on thin ice. Why risk going back to jail?
Catherine: He's infamous for being reckless.
Samson: I say round up the lynch mob!
William: While I do support your enthusiasm in bringing the guilty party to justice……even if it may be mob justice. There are still other suspects we’ve not considered. The windows of the vehicle were blacked out. It quite literally could have been anyone behind the wheel, obvious motive or not.
Samson: It wasn't me....just for the record.
Catherine: I highly doubt anyone would suspect you. You don't even have a driving license.
Samson: Did Patticake tell you about that?! I only have two more years on probation!
Catherine: It's common knowledge among the ranks...
William: Good grief, it's like being at home. Right, before this dissolves into something childish. Back to the world title, our current number one contender is Lord Corbin. Some feel he may be the kind of champion we need right now, while others feel it would do nothing more than enforce the view that Corbins demand, and get. Thoughts?
Samson: Kinda like how you got this gig, Willie Nillie?
Another snicker.
William: Actually Sammy boy, my connection to Evalyn very nearly cost me this “gig”. Favouritism not allowed and all that.
Samson: In this company? Please...
William: So you do believe some stars are favoured?
Samson: Without a doubt. You'd have to be blind or a benefactor of the favouritism not to see it.
Catherine: Well, I am neither and I don't see it.
William: I will admit I do see some people as coming across as untouchable. Though Lord Corbin isn’t one of them. He tends to suffer for his own ego, but that’s a whole other issue. Do you think pushing him towards the World title right now is the right move?
Catherine: That depends. I am a believer of using the heat when it's there and right now he has the momentum. It could also force the champion out of her comfort zone and that may not be a bad thing. He's often been the element that keeps the title in the eyes, ears and minds of the people.
William: But at the same time as a World Champion he can be quite the momentum killer.
Catherine: The same can be said for a lot of champions. There weren't many who really wanted to go up against Nathan Williams either. It is up to the Globalstars to overcome that. And this brings me back to our current champion because the bar can be raised so high by some of champions that it's what intimidates, it's what shows, not only the other Globalstars, but outsiders, that, yes, there is a standard and not everyone can meet it. We have the best of the best and we NEED to see this in the World title scene right now.
William: Again a good point, but it doesn’t matter how feared a challenger may be, if the champion gives nothing in return. Sitting pretty with a belt isn’t enough, and some seem to think it is. A feud only really works when all involved give everything they have. As a fan there is nothing more exciting to watch than two of the greats battling back and forth, building expectation and hype for a match by that point you will HAVE to see. I can’t even remember the last time we had that.
Samson: Lord Fruit Booty has all the tools. With him re-signing a new contract I expect to see a new fire with him and his matches. The issue I have always had and I think most have is that he doesn't put anyone over. The mark of a great Globalstar, the thing that almost all the Icons share, is creating diamonds out of coal.
William: Heh, in my world coal’s for the burning. Y’know what I mean? You can’t make a star just by shoving someone down the throats of the viewing public. Just like you can’t sell somebody who is doing nothing to sell themselves.
Samson: I call bullshit on that! You're new around here, Willie Nellie, so I'll let you slide on not doing your homework. But if you look back on the Icon Monarch's glorious title run he made stars. He gave subpar opponents that legendary rub. He made you think that someone like Milton, whoever the hell he was, had an actual chance of defeating him.
Catherine: Which doesn't go down well with fans. No Globalstar should be directly responsible for making another any more than I should expect another colleague of mine to do my work for me. We are all accountable and that goes for all upcoming stars. How do you "make stars", Joshua?
Samson: You make them care. If the other person isn't doing the work, you do even more. Ever great champion GZW has EVER had carries someone at ne point or another. Do you really think Icon Smooth wasn't made by Icon Lord Deacon Kane? A great Globalstar will do great things regardless of who is placed before him or her. If you have the moxy to constantly say you're the best thing since sliced bread than in the next breath you shouldn't whine about no one else pulling the weight. Great ones do it all. That's something this generation of Globalstars don't get.
Catherine: So you agree that the only reason you've gotten as far as you have is because of Patrick Nelson.
Samson: I could always agree a threesome? Grrr...
Catherine: Josua, if you're not careful, I may have to look into issuing a formal complaint for sexual harassment.
Feigning innocence, Joshua holds his heart avoiding the death glare from his fellow panellist.
Samson: What?! I could arrange a threesome in order to discuss whether or not Patticake was the reason for my success.
Catherine: Mhmm.
Samson: Honestly...
William: It’s a weak as hell connection, but it takes us so far away from thoughts I’d rather not have. You mention that a true star can out over anyone, fair enough. What happens when there’s more than two people in the mix. You see months of hard work, then from out of nowhere another star appears. Doesn’t that cheapen the whole thing a little?
Samson: Sometimes.
Catherine: Depends. If you have two stars who have been going strong with one another, then three is definitely a crowd. Whereas, there are times a third wheel is required to keep things rolling.
Samson: What is GZW's fascination with three anyway? Seems like every feud consists of three Globalstars?
Catherine: For a man who is part of a solid trio, I am surprised to hear you question it, Joshua.
Samson: I’ve been trying to get Todd kicked out the booth for years, Catty Cat.
Catherine: It's Miss Cavanaugh to you. And why would you want to be rid of Todd? Would you really be willing to let go of such a dynamic?
Samson: With the quickness, Catty Cat.
Catherine: Ugh...
Smirking to himself, Will clears his throat.
William:But if these stars are really worth their salt, would they really need a third wheel to keep rolling? Shouldn’t that be the measure that they are not quite ready?
Catherine: It's case by case really, isn't it? It's not unusual for the Globalstars to have more than one feud happening at the same time, or where history between several of them comes into play. I don't think it's a bad thing for that to bleed over and some of the best matches have had more than two people. But all involved need to put in the graft or else it's easy to be overshadowed among the strength of others.
Samson: Agreed. Also the third wheel sometimes isn't the one needing help to get over. Sometime the third wheel is brought in to help get the initial Globalstars over.
Catherine: Hence why it's case by case.
William: I suppose……and on that note I should bring to a close the first meeting of the Knights. Please join us next week where we’ll discuss just how personal is too personal to be aired, just why women in wrestling are more dominant right now, and all the most gossip worthy issues of the day.
Samson: So, Catty Cat, how about that threesome?
Catherine: How about a lawsuit...?
With that, it fades on Samson staring at Catherine and William searching his jacket pocket for his cigarettes.
GroundZero Global © 2013
NIGHTS AT THE ROUND TABLE
With the backdrop of the GroundZero logo, the set followed the theme of the Nights at the Round Table, reds and browns as the camera zooms in on the round table in the centre. Around the table, were three with papers in front of them along with glasses of water. Two males, one female as the focus rested on one in particular. In a beige suit, the blonde haired “brother” of Lady Hikari.
William: Good evening folks, and welcome to the first of many discussion shows, otherwise known as Nights at the Round Table. The only show where the true insiders can give you their honest, hopefully unbiased opinions of the ins and out of the Gloabverse. I am William Stone and of course I am joined by my co-hosts.
The camera moves onto the long-time commentator, donning his silver suit and grin.
Samson: Joshua Samson or as the homies like to call me Jay Smooth...trust me I'm big in them streets just like I'm big in the sheets.
He gives the only female panellist a playful growl as the camera leaves him for her, showing her in her black business suit and long black hair flowing down the front.
Catherine: I'm Catherine Cavanaugh and I am not impressed Joshua...
Samson: Give it time, give it time...
William: Er…..right, and with that thought inflicting itself on all of our minds. Let’s start off on a predictable foot here. The World title…..Our current Champion has received a lot of negativity from colleagues and press alike.
Samson: You sure you want to talk about Lady Itty Bitty, Willie. Isn't she your sister in some strange complex way?
William: And our current World Champion. Doesn’t matter who she is outside the wrestling world, right now were talking about her contributions in it.
Samson: Don't get a catty, Willie Boy. I was just asking.
Catherine: I do not see the relevance of the out of ring relationship, Joshua. This is an unbiased panel, just what the Globalverse are expecting.
Samson: Well answer the question then. Jeez, I'd have an easier time with Patticake and Crumbbum.
Joshua turns to the hard camera and gives a wink and thumbs up. William shakes his head, reaching for his water.
Catherine: I have a mixed opinion on this subject myself. Just as the Globalverse has right now according to social media posts by the fans. While there are some fans who are behind her one hundred percent, there are others, notably the older fans who question her longevity when it comes to her career. You'd be surprised just how much the dedicated people who have followed us for the years the company has remembered and one thing they haven't forgotten is her lack of commitment that sent her back to TroubleTrax. Question is, whether she is anymore ready now than she was then?
Samson: That's a good point. One I'm really inclined to agree with. I honestly like Lady Itty Bitty. There is a tremendous upside to her. She has youth, a following that is clearly growing, and she is proving to be highly marketable amongst the demographic of females you and the rest of the suits of the company are catering to with the current product the past few years.
William: Meanwhile there’s a huge side of the market who she just isn’t touching. Of course you can’t please everybody, but is it really smart to alienate a large part of what you already have?
Samson: But when have had a World Champ that doesn't alienate some portion of the viewing audience? No matter what era you pick, no matter what champion you pick you will see that he or she didn't appeal to everyone.
Catherine: You speak of demographic females. Are we getting desperate now? We have been blessed with Kandi Fortune-Corbin, Elexia Croix-Fortune, Eva Hikari, Davina Cameron. Can we really put Munin on that same pedestal with women who really did change women's wrestling? If we are looking for young, fresh blood with potential, we should be looking at the likes of Piper Sanchez or Kate Gilespie who have shown passion and reach out to the fans. We have also been losing male fans who have felt GroundZero Global have been trying too hard to be politically correct instead of giving them what they actually want to see.
Samson: But all these chicks started from the basement as well. Those same male fans that are in an uproar now about Lady Itty Bitty were making a fuss when Tonya Glory, not Elexia, became the first female World Champion. They cried when Kandi was battling the big boys in main events. They pretty much took a piss break when Lady Sugar Britches slept her way to the top. Trust me, I'm probably the most piggish dude this side of Icon Alex Hunt, when I say that any guy that is not tuning in to see chicks wrestle probably is related to Todd Crumb in some form or fashion.
He takes a sip from the glass of water on the table in front of him.
Samson: And as far as female Globalstars like Piper and Kate, I think Lady Itty Bitty at the time gives them further inspiration.
Catherine: I beg to differ, Joshua. You need to see it from the point of view of the office as well. Of course all those women came from the bottom but Munin is not someone who has just turned up, she has been here for a number of years now. Of course the fans tune in to see wrestling, male and female alike but the shows are not daily, they are periodic. We rely on the time in between to be utilised by the Globalstars to whet the appetites of the viewers so they WANT to tune in. The others may have started at the bottom but they made real efforts and strides, they took the business and put it in a stranglehold. They made people care and keep watching. For an example, and this is not relative to male or female, look back at the Coliseum tournaments. How much of a big deal was it to those who fought all their way? The prize at the end meant so much to them, it was as if there was huge event AFTER it was all said and done. The fans got to experience history, the moment was special. Those were nights that made those fans go home with memories to cherish. 2012 offered none of that. There was no celebration. There was as much effort in the after party as there was throughout her career and it is a concern in the long run. I don't see passion, I see an opportunist and that has never been good for business. Just look at Rupert Martin for instance.
William: Ouch, alright folks. Let’s not go there…..There are a lot of good points here, from both perspectives. You are technically both right, but I believe that if anything was going to happen to convince the naysayers they are wrong. It would have by now. It’s been how long since LOTC? Long enough for a mark to be left or an impact made.
Samson: That's true but if we take what Cathy has said about looking at it from an office perspective, what is the Executuve Committee and all those other names suit wearing people like you doing to push Lady Itty Bitty to get her over with the Globaverse as a whole? If the Ground Zero machine can get a once upon a time loser like John Champa over they should be able to do the same for Lady Itty Bitty.
William: I should remind you I am merely Hikari’s manager. Though to address your point. A suit can only do so much to sell someone. If they do nothing themselves, and frankly for the most part that is what we are seeing here. Then of course we will have lacklustre champions nobody cares about. Although in all reality, if our champion can’t convince the world why they are the best of the best, then what the hell are they doing representing the company?
Samson: Well the question was addressed to our resident corporate officer here. But your question is best answer by her not me.
Catherine: To respond to your previous question, there is only so much the board can do. I hate to use the old adage but you can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink. The truth can be said for every Globalstar. We do believe everyone should have their chance, and while some who may have even been unsuspecting, run with the ball once given, others don't quite manage it. We do use this to make big stars and likely always will but eyes are constantly on them to see what they do with the opportunity. The fans interest relies heavily on momentum. It's one of the main draws. Now I am not saying this cannot happen with the current World champion, but I am reserving my right to be sceptical at this time. All our wages so to speak rely on everyone within the company to be good at what they do, whether it is the administration, to the road agents, referees, wrestlers. As one big machine, all elements have to pull their weight to make it work, to make it move.
Taking her glass from the table, she takes a sip from it.
Catherine: And just because they managed to make a champion out of John Champa does not necessarily mean it applies to all. John Champa has a natural passion for the sport and a strong personality to boot. These are two traits that almost every great champion has possessed and that is why when placed at the top he was able to pull it off.
Turning to the male on the other side of her, she sets her glass back down.
Catherine: To answer you, William. It's a chance we take. Whether that chance pays off remains to be seen. Bear in mind that there are powers higher than those listed on the staff roll so just because presidents, commissioners and other executive members put certain things into place, it does not always mean they are in total agreement with them.
Samson: I knew there was a reason why I thought you were sexy!
Catherine: I'm sure you say that to all the women, Joshua, though it would be wise not to say it to me.
Samson chuckles refraining from further commenting.
William: We’ve addressed the issue of our World Champion, but what about the rest of them? A lot of titles active right now seem to be without direction.
Catherine: I don't think that's entirely true. The recent crowning of the "Wild Card" Eddie Knoxville Television champion stands to be very promising. Vitamin G did well to hold Quarrie at bay and stop him from taking the TV title to Japan. That's not to say Quarrie couldn't have done well there with it but it's not a risk the board was prepared to take if it could be helped. Plus with Azrael involving himself, to the degree he did, there is much potential there for the TV title to get great exposure. Let us not forget that the TV title has had some of the best over the years, World class in fact, quite literally.
Samson: Couldn't have said it better unless I said it...hahaa! The "Wild Card" Eddie Knoxville TV title always seems like it’s unfocused but there always seems to be a hot feud going on. I think the division that is lacking is the Intercontinental one. Champa HAD to take on an undeserving Sean Locke AGAIN.
Catherine: Sadly this has been a growing concern. We've heard Sean make promise after promise but they are never delivered. To be honest with you, after his suspension for illegal substances, you'd think he would seize an opportunity he may have never gotten again. Is the Intercontinental title scene lacking? I'd like to think Kolic hasn't simply given up on Champa or the first singles title he got here so easily. Plus with Champa becoming something of a sympathiser to the Slaughterhouse, a confrontation between the two may be inevitable. Having said that, with John Champa's current contract complications, the board have been somewhat dubious until he either signs or not. He is valuable to the company, it would be a shame for his ego to ruin that.
Samson: You guys would be a goddamn fool not to sign Champa. Hell, give him anything he wants in my book. It took him a while to get there but he's definitely money.
Catherine: Yet he needs to understand that he cannot just hold the company to ransom.
William: Why not? He wouldn't be the first talent to have the company meet his whims.
Catherine: Of whom are you referring to, William?
William: Depends on which rumour mill you want to believe, does that. Take a look at most of the kids in this playground. It'd be easier to spot one who hadn't spat their dummy out when it came to renewing their contracts. How may title shots and main event matches have come out of contract stand offs.
Samson: Willie Nillie does have a point, Cathy. Those are isolated situations though. GZW2K1 would have nothing but egg on their face if they allow Champa to walk into another company, especially not one under the Ground Zero Global umbrella, especially holding the second highest championship in the company.
Catherine: I beg to differ and I'll tell you why. No matter what, GroundZero Global is the front runners when it comes to televised wrestling, it truly covers every area of the sport. While John Champa has become a household name in the sport, it's not that easy to bring that over to another company as we have seen so much in the past. How many Globalstars have we had try and walk into GZW with an ego because of accomplishments in lesser federations? When hiring a new wrestler, you want them to become a big name for YOUR brand, not appear as some sort of hand-me-down so the stars are broken down and rebuilt in our image. John has done some amazing things here but it won't mean anything anywhere else. Not to mention the rate of pay is unparalleled. Besides, there is a clause in all contracts that forbids taking titles outside GZG, which is why Quarrie stood the chance to take the TV title to UJW had he won it.
Samson: So that stops him from exploiting outside of GZG, but what about inside of it? You don't think HKWF would love to stick it to GZW2K1 by meeting the demands of Champa while he's the GZW IC Champ? Or imagine him going over to Canada and joining CSW. A major coup for them and Champa could be a damn king there!
William: King is a little overzealous don’t you think? The man is good and dedicated, but he’s no bloody Icon. Why are we even having this conversation to begin with? The question shouldn’t be will he, won’t he? It should be how soon before we see him back in the World title scene thanks to his years of undying service. He’s a household name because of the fact that he’s consistent with what he does. Is that enough to take HKWF by Storm? Doubt it, how about CSW? Well those Canadians are a funny lot but the man knows where his bread’s buttered. He’s not going to jump ship, and I’ll tell you for why. He has it easy here.
Catherine: I agree with the fact that he won't jump ship. His contract negotiations have been going on for a while already. If HKWF or CSW had an interest, an offer would have been made already and without a doubt John would have exposed it in a bid to tip the scales further for what he feels he wants, adding that sense of urgency for GZW to meet with his demands. This hasn't happened. Besides, John is a performer who likes a crowd the bigger it is. He likes the fact we get Global exposure. Our sister companies do not operate the same way. Their fans are much more close knit, like a family, almost. Not every wrestler wants that.
Now in stock, the new “Diva Dangerous” Davina Cameron action figure from the series 8 collection. Capture the drama and pageantry with the leader of the Slaughterhouse with eye roll action, and her infamous grin.
Women’s Championship belt not included.
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William: And we’re back from us trying to shove our latest merch down your throat. Before the break we were discussing the title scene and all those in it. So without further Champa hype. Do you not think we have a few titles too many? I mean there are some doing nothing right now. The tag belts, the women’s title……
Catherine: You sound an awful lot like "BDR". We have the right amount of titles that spans across all areas. I agree the two you mention need some work but the competition is there. It really is down to them to want to go after them. We already done away with titles like the United States championship and the Extreme title in more recent times. I see no reason to keep discontinuing even more. If we are worried titles mean nothing then throwing them in and out of activity devalues them more. I did think Davina Cameron would have concentrated on the title more than we've seen, especially after being partially responsible for it being reinstated but I feel with Piper Sanchez getting hungrier to the point she is acting out of character for what we are used to, she may get the wake up call she's been needing for awhile. I think she got too comfortable once Kandi was put out of action and Kate cooled off. The tag titles have often been seen in a negative light but it amazes me with the amount of people who have shown unity, that more aren't trying to challenge for them. It's time something happened. Kolic has been resting on the tag titles, clocking up a long reign and I wonder if that is deliberate.
Samson: I always thought the Women's title was more a vanity title if anything. However my girl Davina got the title reinstated, she did it simply because she felt she deserved a title. It's not the title was handed to her. She defeated not one but two other females Globalstars for it. Now that she has it she has basically dominated the division of those that could rightfully challenge for it. Can a feud with Piper Sanchez reignite the fire in the division? Who really knows honestly?
Swivelling in his chair, Joshua looks from William to Catherine before continuing.
Samson: As far as Godboy..er Kolic and the tag titles, when have those titles really meant anything in GZW2K1? I've been around here a LOOONGGG time and not once has that division garnered any kind of sustained heat. The modern Globalstar is just too selfish to want to share a title.
William: Exactly!
Catherine: There have been some great teams who have had heat though. The board has been split a few times on letting those particular teams run with that heat. I wonder if the Globalstars actually realise just what those titles could mean to them if they looked deep enough. It's not just about being selfish. After all, it's not as if they must choose between wrestling solo or as a team. But considering some of the stables we have and have had, team titles should be very significant. I'd even go as far as consider it symbolic of what they are doing.
Samson: I definitely agree with you. If I was running this ship for at least two months I would have highlight nothing but tag team action. It's going to take the full concentrated efforts of the bigwigs to MAKE the Globalstars want to care about those titles.
William: It’ll take more than that. It’s not just about the titles themselves. Do we even have any valid teams on the roster right now? And even if we do, the current champ is flying solo.
Samson: You got Nobunin for sure. I would definitely look to throwing together Killjoy and Kaliban the Brutal as at Aftermath2K12 they have shown they work well together. Um...oh yeah Vyper and Phantom are another pairing.
Catherine: There are teams, teams who are willing and know how to be in a tag team. But I think it's time the tag titles were brought to the forefront. I do not believe Kolic should hide them behind his back any longer. With him missing his partner, you have to wonder if anyone is even sure what to do there. Definitely something to be discussed with the Commissioner.
Samson: More like the President. Oh yeah...
Samson snickers while Catherine shakes her head.
Catherine: I'm astonished you could find any kind of humour in that subject, Joshua. Very distasteful.
William: See, I was trying to avoid going there. What with the Twirker explosion of threats and well wishers….
Samson: What?! My agent told me NOTHING was off limits when I signed on. We're here to discuss all things Ground Zero Global. Well it happened and deserves to be discussed.
William: That’s true, but at the same time that opens the ground for a very angry Nathan Williams. After all.....If I ran over my missus, first thing I'd do is threaten everyone to make it look like I was genuinely upset. Suppose there are other suspects though. Raze, Old man Corbin......Both erratic men led by their tempers.
Catherine: Let's not forget that Angel had been arguing with the Slaughterhouse before it happened as well, and it wasn't for the first time either. Truth be told, there are a myriad of possibilities. It just saddens me to think that someone would need to take it to this level. Last news we've received was that Angel is comatose right now. That's a serious offence and not only will the authorities be informed once we find out, I am sure there will be further consequences.
William: Of course, although we both know that’s not always the case.
Catherine: We are not talking about the hazards of the workplace, wrestling that can go too far. Angel is not a Globalstar, there should be no physical interaction there at all. What if the worst was to happen, God forbid? This is most definitely punishable.
Samson: I wasn't trying to be insensitive to what happened. That hit-and-run on an executive was beyond the scope of wrestling. I do hope that the person or persons responsible for this is caught and punished to the fullest extent of the law.
William: With that in mind, the impact on Nathan Williams right now must be huge. You have to wonder how this will affect his career.
Catherine: On a pure logical point of view, it gives him more of an edge as far as running for GZW president is concerned. He knows he's aging and as resilient as he is, he's knows the clock is against him as far as wrestling is concerned. He's proven many times that when he wants something he will go and get it at any cost and a foot in the door to extend his future in the sport and the company is reason enough. That is not to say he is responsible, just to make that perfectly clear.
Samson: Wait, wait, wait. Are you two trying to say that Icon Rexxy offed his wife?
William: I should probably say right now, that the views expressed here are not necessarily the views of the Globalverse on a whole. With that in mind, I wouldn’t put it past him.
Samson: That's a very dangerous accusation to make, Willie Nillie. I know you're use to all that drama in your family but there is no way Icon Rexxy would do that. No way.
Catherine: The world we live in today is very drama orientated at times. It's impossible to rule anything out.
Samson: So you want to point the finger at a hard working family man and husband but want to overlook the obvious criminal here? If anyone has motive and is deranged enough it's that vagrant Raze.
Catherine: I was in no way pointing the finger at anyone in particular, just that I would rule nothing out. Saying that, I thought it odd he was the last to know and continued the evening at Aftermath as if nothing happened. It was well broadcast, the entire building knew what happened.
Samson: Yet Raze is recorded issuing a threat to her. Add into that he just got out of jail for brutally assaulting Billy Diamond-Remarkable. BDR told me that he has lost nearly fifteen percent feeling in his back and neck.
Catherine: Only time will tell at this stage. There are several suspects, and Raze is definitely among them.
William: But is it really his style? Hasn’t he shown in the past that he prefers his actions to be blatant?
Samson: He knows he's skating on thin ice. Why risk going back to jail?
Catherine: He's infamous for being reckless.
Samson: I say round up the lynch mob!
William: While I do support your enthusiasm in bringing the guilty party to justice……even if it may be mob justice. There are still other suspects we’ve not considered. The windows of the vehicle were blacked out. It quite literally could have been anyone behind the wheel, obvious motive or not.
Samson: It wasn't me....just for the record.
Catherine: I highly doubt anyone would suspect you. You don't even have a driving license.
Samson: Did Patticake tell you about that?! I only have two more years on probation!
Catherine: It's common knowledge among the ranks...
William: Good grief, it's like being at home. Right, before this dissolves into something childish. Back to the world title, our current number one contender is Lord Corbin. Some feel he may be the kind of champion we need right now, while others feel it would do nothing more than enforce the view that Corbins demand, and get. Thoughts?
Samson: Kinda like how you got this gig, Willie Nillie?
Another snicker.
William: Actually Sammy boy, my connection to Evalyn very nearly cost me this “gig”. Favouritism not allowed and all that.
Samson: In this company? Please...
William: So you do believe some stars are favoured?
Samson: Without a doubt. You'd have to be blind or a benefactor of the favouritism not to see it.
Catherine: Well, I am neither and I don't see it.
William: I will admit I do see some people as coming across as untouchable. Though Lord Corbin isn’t one of them. He tends to suffer for his own ego, but that’s a whole other issue. Do you think pushing him towards the World title right now is the right move?
Catherine: That depends. I am a believer of using the heat when it's there and right now he has the momentum. It could also force the champion out of her comfort zone and that may not be a bad thing. He's often been the element that keeps the title in the eyes, ears and minds of the people.
William: But at the same time as a World Champion he can be quite the momentum killer.
Catherine: The same can be said for a lot of champions. There weren't many who really wanted to go up against Nathan Williams either. It is up to the Globalstars to overcome that. And this brings me back to our current champion because the bar can be raised so high by some of champions that it's what intimidates, it's what shows, not only the other Globalstars, but outsiders, that, yes, there is a standard and not everyone can meet it. We have the best of the best and we NEED to see this in the World title scene right now.
William: Again a good point, but it doesn’t matter how feared a challenger may be, if the champion gives nothing in return. Sitting pretty with a belt isn’t enough, and some seem to think it is. A feud only really works when all involved give everything they have. As a fan there is nothing more exciting to watch than two of the greats battling back and forth, building expectation and hype for a match by that point you will HAVE to see. I can’t even remember the last time we had that.
Samson: Lord Fruit Booty has all the tools. With him re-signing a new contract I expect to see a new fire with him and his matches. The issue I have always had and I think most have is that he doesn't put anyone over. The mark of a great Globalstar, the thing that almost all the Icons share, is creating diamonds out of coal.
William: Heh, in my world coal’s for the burning. Y’know what I mean? You can’t make a star just by shoving someone down the throats of the viewing public. Just like you can’t sell somebody who is doing nothing to sell themselves.
Samson: I call bullshit on that! You're new around here, Willie Nellie, so I'll let you slide on not doing your homework. But if you look back on the Icon Monarch's glorious title run he made stars. He gave subpar opponents that legendary rub. He made you think that someone like Milton, whoever the hell he was, had an actual chance of defeating him.
Catherine: Which doesn't go down well with fans. No Globalstar should be directly responsible for making another any more than I should expect another colleague of mine to do my work for me. We are all accountable and that goes for all upcoming stars. How do you "make stars", Joshua?
Samson: You make them care. If the other person isn't doing the work, you do even more. Ever great champion GZW has EVER had carries someone at ne point or another. Do you really think Icon Smooth wasn't made by Icon Lord Deacon Kane? A great Globalstar will do great things regardless of who is placed before him or her. If you have the moxy to constantly say you're the best thing since sliced bread than in the next breath you shouldn't whine about no one else pulling the weight. Great ones do it all. That's something this generation of Globalstars don't get.
Catherine: So you agree that the only reason you've gotten as far as you have is because of Patrick Nelson.
Samson: I could always agree a threesome? Grrr...
Catherine: Josua, if you're not careful, I may have to look into issuing a formal complaint for sexual harassment.
Feigning innocence, Joshua holds his heart avoiding the death glare from his fellow panellist.
Samson: What?! I could arrange a threesome in order to discuss whether or not Patticake was the reason for my success.
Catherine: Mhmm.
Samson: Honestly...
William: It’s a weak as hell connection, but it takes us so far away from thoughts I’d rather not have. You mention that a true star can out over anyone, fair enough. What happens when there’s more than two people in the mix. You see months of hard work, then from out of nowhere another star appears. Doesn’t that cheapen the whole thing a little?
Samson: Sometimes.
Catherine: Depends. If you have two stars who have been going strong with one another, then three is definitely a crowd. Whereas, there are times a third wheel is required to keep things rolling.
Samson: What is GZW's fascination with three anyway? Seems like every feud consists of three Globalstars?
Catherine: For a man who is part of a solid trio, I am surprised to hear you question it, Joshua.
Samson: I’ve been trying to get Todd kicked out the booth for years, Catty Cat.
Catherine: It's Miss Cavanaugh to you. And why would you want to be rid of Todd? Would you really be willing to let go of such a dynamic?
Samson: With the quickness, Catty Cat.
Catherine: Ugh...
Smirking to himself, Will clears his throat.
William:But if these stars are really worth their salt, would they really need a third wheel to keep rolling? Shouldn’t that be the measure that they are not quite ready?
Catherine: It's case by case really, isn't it? It's not unusual for the Globalstars to have more than one feud happening at the same time, or where history between several of them comes into play. I don't think it's a bad thing for that to bleed over and some of the best matches have had more than two people. But all involved need to put in the graft or else it's easy to be overshadowed among the strength of others.
Samson: Agreed. Also the third wheel sometimes isn't the one needing help to get over. Sometime the third wheel is brought in to help get the initial Globalstars over.
Catherine: Hence why it's case by case.
William: I suppose……and on that note I should bring to a close the first meeting of the Knights. Please join us next week where we’ll discuss just how personal is too personal to be aired, just why women in wrestling are more dominant right now, and all the most gossip worthy issues of the day.
Samson: So, Catty Cat, how about that threesome?
Catherine: How about a lawsuit...?
With that, it fades on Samson staring at Catherine and William searching his jacket pocket for his cigarettes.
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