(OOC: Sorry the matches are extremely short, I am suffering with the flu. I hope to be back up to 100% by next weekend so I can write full results for Crash n Burn)
The HWA opening credits run as a string of pyros erupt from the ramp way, exploding in a fashion that they make their way up the ramp way until they hit the stage – in which more pryos and fireworks explode. The camera swirls around the arena, showing the sold-out crowd in attendance and, also, showing official HWA banners for two very important upcoming shows – Crash and Burn and Last Man Standing.
TB: Hello ladies and gentlemen and welcome to another edition of Sunday Night Survival. I’m Trent Brown and with me, as always, the illustrious Keith Kincaid. And Keith, we are just one week away from Crash and Burn and, already, things are beginning to heat up here in the HWA!
KK: Well the most important motto here in the HWA is survival of the fittest. And that’s exactly what tonight is going to be about… surviving! We’ve both been around long enough to know that every show before a PPV – things get a little more interesting. Feelings and emotions begin to run high and animosity is almost a guarantee.
TB: Well I have to agree with ya on that Keith but tonight, it looks like we’re starting things out with the HWA Owner and President in the ring.
As the HWA theme music cuts out, boos and various obscenities can be heard coming from the HWA faithful – all of which are directed at David Jackson. Jackson seems unfazed as he proudly struts about the ring with a microphone in hand, a table and two chairs set up.
David Jackson: Last week Survival ended with yours truly giving none-other then “The Sensation” Danny Starr an ultimatum – an ultimatum which will now be answered! So without further a due I give you… this guy!
”Fixxxer” by Metallica hits as the crowd leap to their feet, Danny’s cheers and followers growing with every week. Starr emerges from the back in a business suit as he looks out at the crowd, a slight smile on his face. Danny heaves a sigh as he begins the long walk down the ramp way, his eyes locked on the HWA President who has already taken a seat in one of the chairs and is tapping his watch impatiently, indicating that he wants to get this over with already.
TB: Danny Starr is in quite the predicament here. Danny is one of few men in the HWA who were brought back in by the now defunct Ron Royalty. Even though Jackson is now the head-honcho, he can’t ignore what’s on Starr’s contract. But it appears that Jackson wants to change all that here and now, forcing Danny to sign under his new regime – just like Michael Diamond did.
KK: Well you have to give him credit, Trent. Jackson is simply using the hatred between Michael Diamond and Danny Starr to build himself an unstoppable force.
TB: Yes, but even if he has both Diamond and Starr aligned to him… I don’t see how either of them could possibly work alongside each other again, nor do I see them willingly working for Jackson.
Danny walks up the steps and climbs into the ring. Starr doesn’t seem to want to waste any time either as he takes a seat across the table from Jackson as Danny’s music cuts out. The fans have a small “Starr” chant going as Danny picks up the mic in front of him, his eyes going over the piece of paper before him.
Danny Starr: I trust that it’s all here.
David Jackson: Everything that you ever wanted Danny, all you have to do is sign on the line and at Crash and Burn… Michael Diamond is all yours.
A smirk came across Jackson’s face as he handed over his pen. Danny heaved a sigh again as he took the pen in hand, his gaze going out to the crowd. The crowd was booing and shaking their heads, indicating that they didn’t want Starr to sign over to the “dark side”. Danny seemed to waver in his resolve as Jackson took note of this.
David Jackson: Don’t listen to those morons Danny, they don’t know what it is they want. But you do… I can see it in your eyes. All you have to do is sign the contract and the match that you’ve always wanted will take place at Crash and Burn. It’s the right thing to do Danny.
Danny’s eyes locked onto Jackson as the smirk formed on the president’s lips again. Danny turned back towards the contract, lifting the pen as if to sign it but faltering on his resolve once more.
David Jackson: Sign it, damn it!
Jackson was up out of his chair, leaning over the table as Danny looked up at the irate president. To agate Jackson even further, Danny placed the pen down on the table and sat back in his chair, his arms crossed. The fans were cheering at this act of defiance as Jackson was, literally, turning red with anger.
David Jackson: This is your one and only chance, Danny! I don’t think you realize just how important that piece of paper is! See… you, by your own right, turned down a chance at the HWA World Championship at Crash and Burn! I have to say; even I was a bit shocked by that. But the reason you turned down the title was because you had more important things to take care of, am I right?
Danny looked away from Jackson as David sneered at “The Sensation”.
David Jackson: You really don’t get it, do you? This is gone way beyond your match with Michael Diamond at Crash and Burn, Danny! You see… if you don’t sign this paper Danny, not only do you get your shot at Diamond at the PPV… but I guarantee that you’ll never – ever – get a shot at the HWA World Championship again!
This seemed to catch Danny’s attention as he looked over at Jackson, he –himself – beginning to get angry. Jackson laughed, realizing he had hit the proper nerve.
David Jackson: And that three-time LMS champion thing you keep talking about? Not on my watch!
Danny rose up out of his chair as the two men were now face-to-face. Both men were speaking in such an angry and rapid pace that their words came out incoherent to the audience, though it was easy to see that they were arguing. But before anything came to blows, “Points of Authority” hit over the loud speakers. Danny quickly turned away from Jackson and his attention went up the ramp way as he saw “Your Hero” Michael Diamond standing at the top, he – himself – dressed in business attire. Danny turned back to Jackson, expecting a trap but saw that the president, too, was surprised by this interruption. Diamond gazed out at the audience through his blue-tinted shades to see that he was receiving a mixed reaction, at best, from the crowd. Diamond frowned and shook his head, not knowing what else he could possibly do to win the crowd over. Michael made his way down the ring, slapping hands with those few fans that actually extended their appendages beyond the barricade. Diamond then jumped up to the apron and pulled himself into the ring, his gaze going from Danny to Jackson. Both men seemed to be backed off a bit, allowing Michael the opportunity to snatch up one of the mics from off the table. Michael’s music came to a hush silence as the crowd, too, went quiet.
Michael Diamond: I hate to be the one to break up your little tea party, Jackson… but I have an announcement to make. You see, after you hit me in the head with a steel chair last week, I got to thinking. I mean, a month ago – I was out here with Royalty talking about how we were going to take you down. Now, here I am… standing beside you?
The fans booed as Michael shook his head, seeming a bit confused by this.
Michael Diamond: Now I know it’s no secret that the fans and everyone else back there didn’t like my decision but, for me, it was my only option. I wanted Danny Starr and the HWA was the only way I was going to get him. But you knew that already, didn’t you Jackson?
Danny and Michael both turned to Jackson as a smile came across Jackson’s lips.
Michael Diamond: And now here you are, at it again. Well I got news for ya Jackson, Danny doesn’t take orders from anyone!
Before either Danny and Jackson could do anything, Michael reached out and tore up the contract. The fans cheered at first, then realized that Diamond had just destroyed the one thing that would’ve allowed them to see Diamond/Starr at Crash and Burn. Boos began to rain down upon the ring as Danny and Jackson looked on in shock.
TB: What the hell!? Michael just tore up the one thing that would’ve given him the thing he wants the most in this world! Now he’ll never get Starr at Crash and Burn!
David Jackson: What the hell do you think you’re…
Before Jackson had a chance to finish, Anderson's music hit over the loud speakers as “Awesome D” Anderson emerged from the back, a girl wrapped around one arm and a mic in the other. Starr and Jackson were both still in shock as Michael had a Cheshire-like grin on his face. Anderson’s music cut off as he looked out at the crowd, before bringing the mic to his mouth.
Anderson: Hey guys, how’s it going!? Boy, looks like you all are having one helluva party down there! I’d come down there and join ya but, as you can clearly see, I sort of have my hands full at the moment.
A smile creeps up on Anderson’s face as he looks over at the young beauty around his arm. The fans start up a small “Awesome D” chant as Anderson turns his attention back to the ring.
Anderson: Now, I’m not one to keep the ladies waiting so I’ll make this quick. Diamond and I were backstage going over this fascinating read…
Anderson reaches into the back of his pants and produces a book entitled “Commissioners for Dummies”. Anderson holds the book up high as the fans are seen laughing.
Anderson: … and I thought that I’d put some of this new-found knowledge to good use. For instance, Jackson… did you know that as Commissioner of the HWA – I have the power to book matches?
The fans cheered loudly at this as Jackson began swearing up a storm.
Anderson: Now, personally and professionally, I couldn’t care less who people are under contract with. As long as the three letters “H… W… A…” are somewhere on the contract, that means they’re eligible to be put into a match. Hell, Jackson… if I wanted to… I could put YOU in a match!
The fans were in an uproar as Jackson’s face turned pale white as he began shaking his head, indicating that a match was not something that he desired to be apart of.
Anderson: But enough about you, these people here have waited long enough for a straight-forward answer regarding the Michael Diamond/Danny Starr match at Crash and Burn. And that’s why I’m out here. Therefore, by the power vested in me… next Sunday, at Crash and Burn, it will be Michael Diamond one-on-one with Danny Starr!
The fans were cheering loudly as Danny and Michael nodded their heads, both their wishes finally granted. Jackson was stomping around the ring like a toddler baby – his plan ruined by “Awesome D” Anderson.
Anderson: And to ensure that it’s the classic that we all expect it to be, there will be a No Outside Interference clause which indicates that any active member of the HWA – from the HWA cameramen to the HWA superstars – are banned from interfering under penalty of contract termination. To make things even more interesting, this match will be a No Disqualification, Falls Count Anywhere match!
The fans were ecstatic at this news as Michael and Danny kept their eyes locked on each other, both men staring intently at the other. Jackson was desperately racking his brain for a way to counter-act Anderson’s statement but was coming up short. Glancing up the ramp way, Jackson watched Anderson and his lady-friend disappear behind the curtain as his attention went to the two other men in the ring. Danny and Michael kept their gaze solely on each other – their match now set in stone for Crash and Burn.
TB: For the first time in wrestling history, Michael Diamond and Danny Starr will face off one-on-one in a No DQ, Falls Count Anywhere match!
KK: Any chance of working Syren into that match?
TB: Well Syren’s already booked for the World Championship match, Keith. Besides, I’m not sure Syren, nor anyone else for that matter, will want to get in between those two men at Crash and Burn! Judging by the way things have deteriorated between these two former friends, it’s going to be nothing short of a blood bath!
KK: This match is going to be a close one, neither wrestler seems to be distinctly better than the other
TB: The exiled has his International shot on the line, it may give him the edge
KK: Maybe Trent but I wouldn’t rule Fury out just yet
The exiled’s entrance music plays as he makes his way down to the ring, seemingly oblivious to the crowds chants and slurs
KK: Focus, a good attribute for any wrestler
Fury’s entrance takes place, it seems grander and more elaborate as he high fives a couple of the younger fans on the way down
The bells rings. Fury goes straight for The exiled with a rapid fists of fury to the face and torso that happens with such speed it catches The exiled off guard. The exiled moves back into the ropes bouncing back off. Fury goes for a clothesline but misses as The exiled ducks and runs off the opposite ropes. The exiled runs back at Fury looking for a high knee but Fury counters and catches The exiled for a harsh side walk slam
TB: ouch
The exiled rolls out of the ring and starts to walk round
KK: Clever, trying to regain his energy
The exiled moves to go into the ring but backs off again after seeing Fury rush over. Fury moves back allowing The exiled to re-enter. As soon as he gets into the ring Fury tries to capitalize with a clothesline but The exiled ducks and starts to pummel Fury against the turnbuckle. Fury tries to fight back in vain as The exiled goes rampant on his ass. The exiled whips Fury against the other turnbuckle and runs at him jumping for a dropkick against the turnbuckle. Fury moves out of the way just in time as The exiled is left hitting just the corner. Fury grabs The exiled by his tights hitting a clean snap suplex. The exiled struggles to rise to only be hit with a sharp DDT. Fury climbs the turnbuckle and jumps off for a splash, The exiled moves his right leg catching Fury on the throat. Fury falls back gasping for air and with his arms flying around in the air
KK: Oh my God
TB: Can he even breathe?
The crowd let off an audible Ouch as the boot connects. The exiled moves quickly the grab Fury by the neck and hit a neckbreaker. He covers him quickly for the referee to count 1…2…3
KK: The exiled WINS!
The paramedics rush out to check on Fury as The exiled makes a silent exit to the back
TB: A possible winner of LMS?
KK: Maybe, but its going to be tough
TB: Have you been wondering where Anderson has been since he was last in the HWA?
KK: Well yeah of course.
TB: Well some video footage turned up from an unknown source at HWA HQ recently, lets roll the footage.
"Ok, are we rolling?"
"Oh f
"Its rolling alright but you left the cap on"
"Ohhh F
"Everybody's hopeless at 5 in the morning. Now get that cap off…"
It gradually fades from blacjustments, the scene reveals an airport terminal with a fairly busy crowd for that hok to the break of dawn, or at least some form of light can be seen. After some adur. The camera shifts right to reveal Anderson, sporting a pair of sunglasses, wearing an overcoat over a Hawaiian shirt and a pair of shorts.
Anderson: Alright Frank, things should be rolling from here onwards…
An inaudible string of explicitives can be heard from Frank the 'cameraman'. Anderson lets out a hearty chuckle.
Anderson: With any luck, this is going to be a helluva trip…
Frank lets out a sigh at Anderson's statement.
Frank: Can't believe I let you talk me into this…
Anderson combs his hair back with his hands, trying his best to straighten it out from its messy state.
Anderson: You'll be thanking me after this, and not to mention the beers and shots I shouted you last night…
Frank: F
The airport's PA system comes to life with a melodious beep, indicating another announcement.
"Flight MH 254 to Kuala Lumpur is now ready for boarding, all passengers please…"
Anderson slowly rises from his seat, slinging a duffel bag over his shoulder and the camera shifts to standing position as well.
Frank: You know for a fact that I'm never going on a bender with you again after we get back from this adventure of yours
After a slight pause while queue-ing up at the gate, Anderson turns around and winks at the camera.
Anderson: Trust me, this one's going to be good
Frank: As long as you're buying the drinks
The camera fades to black with Anderson handing the stewardess two boarding passes, flirting with her while Frank lets out another inaudible string of explicitives.
TB: Ok folks, and back live now, but we're going to the sit down interview, with Danny Starr. Anderson asking the questions, Starr in the hot seat.
Q: Tell me about your history as a professional wrestler.
A: You, of all people, Anderson... should know my history. It's too long to fit into a short segment on Survival... and I do not want to focus on what everyone else has been focusing on ever since I returned to the HWA... but one important thing I will note is the fact I came strong... and stayed strong leading the Foundation Of Sensation over the course of 3 years off/on. I was responsible for most of the masterminding behind anything controversial that involved the FOS or World Title when I was on top. Those were the glory days followed by darker ones.
Q: When did you join the HWA?
A: I first joined in 2002 along with Michael Diamond and my dear Sister, Cassandra. Once again, coming back to the FOS... we had a bumpy start but soon after our debut... we decided to play a different kind of game than everyone else played.
Q: What have been your biggest achievements up until now?
A: The one thing you should know most of all, Awesome D! 2-time Last Man Standing winer... 2 Time World Champion among other championships. The only LMS winner of HWA as far as i'm concerned. Ryan Maxem's victory was based on lack of competition and should not have been even listed as the winner because love me or hate me... everyone knows until you beat me... you can never claim to be the Last Man Standing.
Q: Who is your closest friend in the wrestling world, and in HWA?
A: The man in the mirror now, Anderson. I used to be able to say Michael Diamond, but that day is long gone. Another close friend is Syren.. it's just so hard to admit to trusting someone anymore after the pain I have felt over the last few weeks.
Q: Who has been your biggest rival in the wrestling world / HWA?
A: There were so many enemies but the ones who stayed boiling in my veins were Zack Tyler, The Circle, but most of all... I will always hate Ryan Maxem.
Q: Who is the biggest threat in the HWA right now?
A: It's hard to determine. HWA is still new so the talent is nervous and trying to find their place. Anything can and will happen soon enough... Like I said, it's too hard to name an individual name because people are still hiding like snakes in the grass... waiting to show their true colors but If i had to name a person... the closest thing to a threat in the HWA right now... is David Jackson. Although if Michael has stooped to the level of turning on his best friend... I can't imagine what he's capable of when it comes to championship gold.
Q: Who do you see as the next breakout star in the HWA?
A: A breakout star. Another question that's hard to say. You're killing me Anderson, haha... Very tough question, especially since everyone that is currently active in the HWA has a repuation already. Based upon what I have seen... Bigg Money is not even in the running for a Breakout star title... especially since he couldn't break out Starr... however, I do see Exiled rising up quickly. He's a dark figure... who knows, maybe he is HWA's biggest threat.
Q: Cast your eye over the card for Crash and Burn. What do you think to the
various matches?
A: I'm really looking forward to seeing the World Championship match between Syren and whomever advances tonite. Most likely Nate Hartman or Kevin Conner. No disrespect to Fudge, but he's getting up there now. I think whoever is pit up against Syren is going to have the undoubtedly fight of their life.
Sett and Blue Thunder... both men deserve a spot in the Hall of Fame in my opinion... both vets in the HWA. But not everyone can be in the Hall of Fame... so I guess its time to rule one out... should be an extraordinary match.
As far as Kevin Conner, Nate Hartman, Bigg Money and Exiled... Like i said, Exiled looks like a big player up and coming but Bigg Money definetly won't win this in my opinion. I may sound bias but I am aiming for Conner in this one. Not one of his competitors is International Championship material... not to down-play any of them in a wrestling aspect... but I believe all titles are to be earned. That's exactly why I turned down my chance in that World Title match... I want to earn it through the Last Man Standing tournament.
Q: Give us more information on your thoughts about YOUR match at Crash n
Burn.
A: What can I say, Anderson... I didn't see this coming. In all my years, I never imagined this match would have ever been signed... I never even imagined Michael Diamond and I would be in this situation. But I guess a lot has changed since i've been gone... and even though I changed for the better, it seems everyone has pointed the finger at me for my past mistakes. I am man enough to answer to my own actions... and I believe I am responsible for torturing Michael before I left for Peru... I don't remember it, but during that time.. my mind was in a bad way.
The video shows it was me, so... I guess it's time to pay the piper but under NO circumstances did I have anything to do with the murder of Michael's guardian... Martin. I was not affiliated with his death, nor do I have knowledge of the tragedy. Michael just needs someone to blame, and I guess he chose me to be the scape goat.
Anderson... I will not tolerate disrespect from a person I cared so much for... I did everything for him and had his back through everything. And now because I made some minor mistakes he jumps at the oppertunity to turn on me as if he had been waiting this whole time for any chance to arise. I took him to the top with me... and this is the thanks I get.
After a vicious diamond cutter which left me in the hospitol... It was Eric Rayne who convinced me.. Enough is enough. I appreciate the fact you made the match yourself, Anderson... I am not sure how much more I can deal with David Jackson. Right now... the only thing on my mind is Michael Diamond... not Jackson, not you... nobody except Michael Diamond. My best friend... my brother.
Q: What are your thoughts about the history of your match up and how it came
about?
A: Like I said... he just needs someone to blame... and Yeah, he tried to expose me by listing the horrendous actions I did in the past... but no history of FOS is going to hold me back now... Team mate or brother... I'm not going to give him the easy way out...
Q: Do you have anything to say to the man you'll be across the ring from
this time next week?
Anderson... This match at Crash N Burn... it's not going to be a match of the week... it's not going to be listed as one of the best matches... don't expect much technical wrestling or respectful wrestling... it's not going to be a match where kids are inspired to become a wrestler for a career... in fact, no child will want to see this match again once its over... It's not going to be a match... it's going to be a fight. There WILL be blood shed.... there WILL be hate and violence... and i never thought i'd be saying this... but it WILL be the end of Your Hero.
As much as I hate to say it... Michael Diamond and Danny Starr will take each other to hell and back... this match won't be classy... and it won't be in good taste... there will be nothing but the taste of blood in the mouths of HWA.
TB: You’ve been waiting for Syren
KK: Haven’t we all
The entrances take place with each wrestler individually openly soaking up the applause
The bell rings with Syren against Blue Thunder in the ring. Blue Thunder tries to hit a sharp kick to the face of Syren but she moves with surprising agility to move around and hit a subsequent jawbreaker to Blue Thunder. Blue Thunder reels on the floor and comes up quickly looking very angry. He runs at Syren but again hits air as she runs off the ropes and connects with a spinning elbow
KK: That’s not how you do it, too angry and you get careless
TB: Don’t you think he knows this? He’s a professional and a great one at that
KK: I was just…
TB: It doesn’t matter
Blue Thunder gets up and moves at Syren only to get hit with the Lasso. He gets up and again Syren tries to hit the Lasso but this time Thunder ducks and grabs Syren and hits a suplex whilst her leg is over his shoulder. She falls awkwardly, Fat Larry White tries to move in but is far too slow prompting the ref to throw him back. Blue Thunder and Bigg Money hit a double suplex before Bigg Money leaves the ring. The referee turns around as Thunder tags in Money
KK: Teamwork!
Money hits Syren with a DDT and then gives FLW a slap. FLW again tries to move into the ring but is too slow and struggles to get through the ropes. Syren hits Money with a fist as he turns round as they go toe to toe. Money hits an eye rake mid way however and capitalized with a headbutt before throwing Syren off the ropes and catching her for a big backdrop. Syren rises slowly as Money grips her by the hair and tags in Thunder
Thunder and Big Money hit a double DDT, Thunder covers 1…2. kick-out
Thunder picks Syren up and knees her in the gut, he runs off the ropes and looks to be hitting a fame-asser, Syren counters with a tilt a whirl backbreaker
TB: What strength for a woman
KK: She’s more than a woman
TB: Spur of the Moment! Baby
KK: Calm down
TB: Sorry
Syren crawls over and tags in Larry White, FLW moves in but is again very slow giving Thunder enough time to tag in Money. Money runs and tries a clothesline to FLW but FLW looks unfazed, he tries again by FLW picks him up and bearhugs him. Thunder runs in and hits FLW prompting him to release him. They double whip him and tries to double clothesline FLW but he reverses with a double clothesline of his own. Syren jumps into the ring and runs at FLW, he puts his hands out and Syren uses them as leverage and flips over landing a moonsault onto Thunder
KK: Wow, what improvisation
TB: BreakDOWN!
Thunder rolls out of the ring and Syren returns to her corner
FLW drops onto his knees and splashes onto Bigg Money
The referee counts 1…2
KK: Hes trying to kick out but its too much weight!
….3
TB: The first lady of wrestling has done it, with the help of the fat man!
KK: What a match!
TB: And now, in the final of the two sit down interviews today, we have Michael Diamond.
TB: What a night it has been so far, ladies and gentlemen. Tonight, we found out that Michael Diamond and Danny Starr will, indeed, finally face off at Crash and Burn. We heard from Starr earlier, now it’s time for us to get the other side of the story. Here’s what “Your Hero” had to say when he sat down with “Awesome D” Anderson earlier in the week.
The HWATron comes to life as we see a dimly lit room with Anderson sitting beside Michael Diamond. Anderson appears to be finishing off a beer as Michael simply sits next to him, casting a sidelong glance over at the HWA Commissioner. Anderson seems to catch the look as he pulls the beer from his mouth.
Anderson: Oh, sorry… where are my manners?
Anderson leans over his chair, pops open a cooler, and pulls out a beer. He tosses it over to “Your Hero”, who catches it with ease and is simply left there staring at it.
Anderson: Drink up buddy.
Anderson finishes off his beer can and tosses it to the floor as Michael looks about, almost as if he was searching about for the nearest exit.
Anderson: Alright, let’s get down to business… shall we?
Anderson pulls out a piece of paper and looks it over as Michael, covertly, disposes of Anderson’s beer offering by chucking it over his shoulder and out of sight. The commissioner seems to be straining his eyes as if the font of the paper was too small. Reaching into his pocket, Anderson produces a pair of glasses as he fits them neatly to his face. This appears to be making things worse for Anderson is squinting even harder, his face nearly inches from the paper. Diamond looks around, confused as to what was going on.
Michael Diamond: Uh… are you going to start asking me questions, or what?
Anderson pulls the pair of glasses from his face and shakes his head, the words finally coming in clear to him. The big man lets out a chuckle as he looks over at Diamond, Michael still very much confused.
Anderson: Here I am thinking there’s something wrong with my eyes, when the real problem is the fact that I’m drunk off my ass. Ahhh… I love this job.
Anderson laughs to himself again as Diamond rolls his eyes. The commissioner turns his attention back to the piece of paper, clearing his throat as he does so.
Anderson: Ahem, alright… here we go. First question… which, as I look over it now, isn’t really a question. Still, you’re required to answer, okay?
Michael Diamond: Is that the question?
Anderson laughs to himself again as he playfully hits Diamond on the shoulder. However, in his intoxicated state, he hits Michael a little harder then intended as Diamond glares over at the HWA commissioner.
Anderson: Heh, sorry. No… the question-that-isn’t-a-question is this: tell me about your history as a professional wrestler.
Michael Diamond: I didn’t get involved with wrestling until sometime after I graduated from Hartford University. During my tenure there, I had been involved in an assortment of sports ranging from football-to-basketball-to-hockey. An ankle injury kept me from capitalizing on athletic scholarships I had received my senior year at Hartford. It wasn’t until I was out rehabbing my ankle that I found out about the sport of professional wrestling. So I gave it a shot and the rest is pretty much history.
Anderson: Alright, next question: when did you join the HWA?
Michael Diamond: The HWA was the first big break that I ever got and that came about five years ago when I debuted with the likes of Danny and Cassandra Starr.
Anderson: What have been your biggest achievements up until now?
Michael Diamond: As far as achievements go, the only time I’ve really ever struck gold has been in the HWA. Anyone who has followed my career knows that the HWA isn’t the only place that “Your Hero” has wrestled – still, it’s the only place that I consider home. For a stint there, I transferred to the EWF. I was with them for about a month before I returned to the HWA. Still, it was a learning experience for me that I wouldn’t give up for anything. The other federation I was involved in was the GWA – a place that was swarming with world-class talent. Again, I was around for about a month before I suffered a broken leg. So perhaps one of my biggest achievements is the fact that no matter what happens – no matter what road I take – I always come back to the HWA. And for good reason. As far as I’m concerned, this is where my career started. And this will be where “Your Hero’s” career ends. When I first started out in the HWA, I was all about dominating the Tag Team division and I did just that, winning the Tag Titles on six different occasions. From there, I branched off to the International Championship – capturing that title three times. But without a doubt, my greatest achievement was holding the World Title from December of 2002 to May of 2003. I held the Championship longer then anyone before me, and longer then anyone that came after me. Who knows, had I not suffered that neck injury during one of my many title defenses, I’d probably still be champ.
Anderson: Who is your closest friend in the wrestling world, and in HWA?
Michael Diamond: What I’ve come to discover is that the wrestling industry isn’t about friends. When I first broke into the business, I was naïve – believing it possible to separate one’s personal life from one’s professional career. That’s why, if you look back, “Your Hero” was off to such a slow start in the HWA. I cared more about my “friends” then I did about myself. I sacrificed my career for them and they turned on me for it. No one to really blame but myself – I was just an easy target. People like Danny Starr, someone I considered to be like a brother, manipulated me into doing his every whim. Cassandra Starr, someone I was deeply in love with, tore out my heart when she revealed that I was the father of her son and that I was to never be allowed to see either of him or her again. Jason Marah, my first official tag team partner, dropped off the map many years ago. Jason Vargas, someone who had helped me adapt to the world of wrestling, left me high and dry in GWA – thus the reason for my leg being broken in the first place. Most recently, Fudge was someone I thought I could rely on and place my trust in. We were quite possibly the best tag team the HWA had ever seen, still… that wasn’t enough for him. He wanted the HWA World Title so badly that he simply flushed our friendship and our illustrious history down the shitter, all so that he could satisfy his lust for the Championship. As far as I’m concerned, you don’t make friends in the wrestling business – you make acquaintances. Once that person or persons have served their purpose, then you simply move on. I will say this though; the one person who has, shockingly, been a reliable “acquaintance” to “Your Hero” has been Ryan “Sett” Evans – one man in which I have had countless brutal encounters with. Sett earned my respect inside the squared circle but, more importantly, he earned it outside of it as well.
Anderson: Who has been your biggest rival in the wrestling world / HWA?
Michael Diamond: I’ve had many big rivalries in the HWA, all of them – in my opinion – memorable. In the tag team ranks, teams like Abrianna/Anubis and Sett/Morgoth seem to stick out the most for me. For individual threats, Sett and I always put on a show – regardless of the venue and what was at stake. Kevin Conner is a man I’ve faced in the ring probably more then anyone else in recent history. Hell, when I was Champ – I had to defend my title against him three weeks in a row. He’s got a lot of heart and has the ability to be a big main-event threat but he reminds me too much of myself and there can only be one Michael Diamond in this industry, as far as I’m concerned. Ryan Maxem was another big rival, if only because our first match was for the World Title. The fact that we were teammates made it even that much more of a bigger deal between the two of us – both parties having something to prove to the other. And what made it such a memorable moment for me was the fact that, up until that point, Maxem had been unbeatable. I have to throw Fudge’s name in there as well, if only because the two of us always put on a tremendous show. I would’ve liked to add Darren “Chaos” Copeland from the EWF to that list, but… alas… he was one of many victims of the 9/11 tragedy. But the biggest rival in the wresting world and in the HWA, for me, has to be “The Sensation” Danny Starr. This is a match that’s been brewing behind the scenes for many years now and it’s finally going to happen at Crash and Burn. For fans, this is a must-see because, believe me, this one is personal.
Anderson: Who is the biggest threat in the HWA right now?
Michael Diamond: “The Sensation” Danny Starr isn’t the biggest threat in the HWA… but he is the biggest threat to it. As for who is the biggest threat right now, it’s really hard for me to say. Conner was beginning to string a long a decent win-streak. That is, until I manage to beat both him and Fudge single-handedly in a handicap match. But I’m going to have to say that I’m the biggest threat in the HWA. My reason for saying that is this… I have a main-event caliber match at Crash and Burn with a man that everyone believes is out of my league. Just like how it was with Maxem, I plan on proving the world wrong. If I pull out a victory at Crash and Burn, then I’ll know that I’m back where I need to be – I’ll be in World-Class shape once more. And you remember how long my last title reign was? Well I plan on making this one even longer.
Anderson: Who do you see as the next breakout star in the HWA?
Michael Diamond: I don’t think there’s any doubt in anyone’s mind that the next breakout star is Syren. The fact that she’s the only female in the HWA right now has to make things even that much more difficult for her, yet she still continues to press on – winning match after match. The only thing I foresee being a problem for her is her relationship with “The Sensation”. Either he’ll do one of two things – either he’ll try and bury her in his spotlight or he’ll bury a knife in her back and believe me, I’m speaking from experience here. But I think many are underestimating her talent inside the ring and, also, seem to forget that she was once a World Title holder. Another person who could have a phenomenal season is my old sparring partner, Nate Hartman. Physically, he’s looked better then he ever has before and he seems to have a fire burning deep within him – fueling him towards greatness.
Anderson: Give us more information on your thoughts about your match at Crash n
Burn.
Michael Diamond: Like I said before, this match was a long time coming. Back when I was apart of the FoS, the only thing I was to Danny was his second-hand man. He made it abundantly clear that he was to be the main event. He was afraid of competition, especially from within his own little circle of puppets. The funny thing about Danny is that he was so paranoid about people turning on him that he’d turn on them before they even had a chance to consider sticking the dagger deep into his back. Like I said before, these people were nothing more then acquaintances to Danny Starr. And as I found out last year, the same could be said about me.
Anderson: What are your thoughts about the history of your match up and how it came
about?
Michael Diamond: When Danny left the HWA and I was finally allowed to breathe on my own, a match with him was something I had always dreamed about. I spent the better part of my time in HWA trying to redeem myself for Danny’s sins – for trying to claw my way out his shadow. I figured that all I would need would be one match – one match to show everyone just who “Your Hero” truly was. I would’ve hoped it could’ve been a civilized affair – a respectful bout between two proud competitors, a match similar to how Diamond/Fudge I was. But all hope of such a match like that was shattered after what he did to me. Starr couldn’t handle seeing me – his protégé – being successful without him. So he did what only the master manipulator does best, he targets those close to you and attacks. He’s the reason that I don’t know where my son is! He’s the reason that Cassandra ran from me in the first place! He’s the reason that Martin is dead and buried six feet under! Danny ruined my life and now, it’s time for payback. These fans can buy into this whole “redeemed” angle Starr is spinning but I see right through it. No longer does this sheep have wool over his eyes. I see Danny for what he truly is. And if the fans choose to cheer him over me, then that’s their right. I’d be lying if I said that it doesn’t bother me because it does. I gave up nearly two years of my life for these people rehabbing my neck and getting back into shape so that I could, one day, step back into the squared circle. And after all of that, to simply come back and find myself in Danny Starr’s shadow once more? I don’t think so! Danny can go ahead and play the helpless victim all he wants because I assure you… when I’m done with him, he will be a helpless victim.
Anderson: Do you have anything to say to the man you'll be across the ring from
this time next week?
Michael turned and stared directly into the camera, his eyes gazing through the lens and piercing the heart of all who watched – truly seeing the pain, the anger, and the frustration in “Your Hero”.
Michael Diamond: Everyone has you picked to be the victor at Crash and Burn, Danny. Everyone believes that there’s just no touching the legacy of “The Sensation”! Well the only reason you have said legacy is because of me, Danny! You talk about how it was you who made me, well… in a way, you’re right. But you’re not responsible for the man that I am – you’re responsible for the monster. All of your lies, your treachery, your games… this is the fallout of your actions! I promise you Danny, at Crash and Burn… you and the rest of the world are going to see a side of “Your Hero” that has never been seen before. Whether you like it… or not!
Conner is walking through the halls and he runs to Kristin THomas.
Kristin Thomas: "Conner any last words before your match?"
Kevin Conner: "Lets see, last words? Screw last words! I will speak before this match, after this match. And at Crash N Burn I still be the HWA International Champion and become the HWA World Heavyweight Champion."
Just then a man with a phone comes running up to Conner.
Man: "Excuse me. Mr. Conner you have a phone call."
Conner takes the phoine, and says hello, and listens and his eyes get really big. Conner then drops the phone and runs away.
Krstin THomas: "Kevin! Where are you going?!"
Conner runs out to the arena and leaves.
TB: "Where in the hell is Conner going!? He has a match tonight!"
KK: "What does this mean?"
KK: No Conner
TB: What was that phone call Keith?
KK: I don’t know Trent, it sounded urgent
TB: It must have been Conner’s just left his title shot for it
KK: The Suicidal Chyld against The Phenomenal One, what a match up
Nate and Fudge run at each other connecting in a double clothesline, both go down hard but Fudge gets up a little quicker. Fudge hits a dropkick, then an elbow drop. He picks up Nate then DDT’s him. He tries again but Hartman throws him off the ropes and catches him for a DDT of his own
KK: What a hit
TB: The Phenomenal One is a strong man
The Phenomenal One picks up Fudge again and suplexes him, he does it again and again. Then covers 1…. Kick-out
The Phenomenal One picks up Fudge and throws him against the turnbuckle, he pummels him a few times and then hits a spinebuster before convering 1…2..
KK: An upset!
Fudge kicks out, TPO picks up Fudge again and tries a backdrop but Fudge rolls over and hits a spinning wheel to the back of TPO’s head
KK: Is that Flames running out?
Flames seems to come from the crowd, Flames looks under the ring and grabs a chair
KK: What is Flames doing?
TB: I don’t know
Fudge picks TPO up and headbutts him. Hartman tries to recover with a fist but Fudge pounds him relentlessly. Fudge throws him off the ropes and catches him with a sidewalk slam. He picks him up again and sets TPO up for a powerbomb
TB: He cant do that
He picks him up onto his shoulders but staggers around, when finally dropping him TPO twists in mid air hitting the referee. The referee hits the sack stunned
KK: Get up ref
Fudge climbs the turnbuckle and signals for the Fudge U, the crowd goes wild
Flames runs round to the turnbuckle and hits Fudge on the back with the chair, he falls groin first into the turnbuckle
KK: Ouch
The audience let off a mixture of groans and cheers
The Phenomenal One recovers and grabs Fudge from the turnbuckle who looks only half conscious, he picks him up for a suplex but then modifies him in mid air dropping him for a monster Paralyzer
KK: FINISHER! THE PHENOMENON! THE PHENOMENON!
TB: A chair shot and that! Theres no way he could recover
The referee staggers up as The Phenomenal One covers Fudge 1…2.. Fudge gets his foot on the ropes but Flames takes it off
….3!
KK: That’s not fair
TB: It’s all fair in love and war
KK: This isn’t right
Announcer: You’re winner The Phenomenal One Nate Hartman
Fudge rolls out of the ring and stares in disbelief on his knees, his anger almost palpable
TB: And so folks, at Crash and Burn it will be Syren versus Nate "The Phenomenal One" Hartman for the World Heavyweight Championship!
KK: Hartman already has the International Title in his possession!
TB: Yes, true, but its not really his.
KK: What a night Crash and Burn is going to be folks, we've got the fatal four way match for the International Title, in which Hartman is ALSO in!
TB: We've got Sett versus Blue Thunder in a HWA Hall of Fame match! First of it's kind!
KK: We've got Danny Starr versus Michael Diamond in their first ever match against each other - that one i'm sure will be an absolute classic. Look for that match to be the marquee of the event.
TB: And then of course, just confirmed, we have the HWA World Heavywight Championship match. The title will be decided for the first time since the HWA was relaunched this summer. I can't wait!
KK: And finally, the group phase placings of the Last Man Standing tournament will also be announced just to top it all off! What a night! Folks, you can't miss it!
Winner faces Syren for the World Title at Crash n Burn