Post by Ricky Johnson on May 12, 2012 20:12:39 GMT -6
I've been here a long time, Todd. I mean, we're going on six years. That's a really long time to be anywhere. I'm 31 years old, and I've changed a lot.
I mean, look at me. I'm obviously not the same man I was all those years ago. I've been married, I've having kids. I wasn't always this way Todd. I guess you have to be ready to accept change.
And it sounds like you are ready Todd.
I heard the doubt in your voice. You know I'm right about all this. You know your time is up.
You know that May 14th, you will be minus the world title.
Make no mistake, I want this to be an epic match, but I'm just thinking that you aren't in the right frame of mind. I think you're already giving up. are you quitting on me Todd?
I get it, you and I aren't enemies right now. In fact, we're pretty good friends.
But as you said yourself, no madden game, no call of duty game, none of those things matter when it comes to being in the ring. And this night, is about you and me in the ring. So I don't know why you would bring it up, but none the less, it doesn't matter.
And when it's all over, and I've won the world title, I will still be your friend...even though you've made some smart ass comments every chance you get. Don't think I haven't heard them Todd. Don't think I haven't been paying attention. I have, and I owe you for every little remark you made about me, about my wife, about my skills.
The fact is, you don't really know me like that Todd. You don't much as it is, but you don't get it.
So once again, for your benefit I will educate you.
Ricky - What are you doing?
Roxi - I'm packing.
Ricky - I can see that, why are you packing?
Roxi - Because I'm going with you.
Ricky - No. You're not.
Roxi - Yes. I am.
Ricky - Roxi, you don't need to go.
Roxi - And why not?
Ricky - Babe, look at yourself. You're pregnant. You don't need to be anywhere near the ring, or the arena.
Roxi - I'm going, and that's final.
Ricky - Listen to me. You. Are not. Going. What happens if you go into labor or something?
Roxi - I'll be fine.
Ricky - Oh really? There's not going to be anyone there, the ring doctor is not trained to deliver a baby.
Roxi - I don't really care, Ricky. I'm going to Las Vegas with, or without your consent.
Ricky - Why are you making this so difficult?
Roxi - I'm not. You are. You're the one arguing with me.
Ricky - You're just being stubborn, now.
Roxi - Then drop it. I'm going with you.
Ricky - You want to give me something else to worry about aside from Todd Williams?
Roxi - No. Because you are going to worry about Todd, and not about me.
Ricky - You know I can't do that. Roxi, will you please listen to reason.
Roxi - Hmm?
Ricky - Come on, please.
Roxi - Shh. I listening to reason.
Ricky - Very funny. I'm being serious Rox, you cannot put yourself in that kind of situation.
Roxi - What situation? sitting in the front row and watching you destroy Todd.
Ricky - That's not what I meant, dammit.
Roxi - Oh really, then what did you mean? I may be pregnant, but I'm not helpless.
Ricky - I never said you were.
Roxi - But that's what your really implying isn't it? You don't think I can handle myself anymore, do you?
Ricky - It's not - Jesus why are you being so difficult right now? I want to do this for you.
Roxi - And I want to be there when you do it.
I started here in 2007, I had a terrible gimmick. good 'ol "Rockstar" Ricky Johnson. And while I do actually play guitar, it was still so very, very silly. You guys that were here remember that don't you? There were a bunch of "rockstar" puns, and it was just so god-awful I've tried very hard to wash away those memories. Or rather, drown them in large quantities of alcohol.
I tried really hard to work with it, but it wasn't fun. I would like to think that mostly I used it because my skills weren't exactly where they needed to be. So I tried very hard to use the gimmick to cover my own shortcomings.
Hell, I think I even sung in a promo once. I know you don't remember this, because you weren't around. Be glad you never had to witness that. Although I know I'm a better singer than you. And a better wrestler. And a better champion. And a better man. But that's beside the point. The point here, and That "rockstar" thing got really old, really quick. And maybe, just out of shear pigheadedness, I tried to make it work. People seemed to like me, but that gimmick had to go. And I guess you can say I wasn't ready to let it go. I was in denial. I mean, it's not like I was terrible with it.
I beat Milo Holland for the National Championship with that damn gimmick. I pulled off a major upset and shocked the world. Much like you would do 5 years later, winning the world title when no one thought you would. Although I pulled being a champion off successfully.
Unlike you.
That's always been the difference Todd, I have EARNED my titles, while for you, it was simply...your night.
It will not be your night Sunday.
Ricky - Well?
Roxi - Well what?
Ricky - ...Are you packed.
Roxi - Oh, so now you're okay with it?
Ricky - No, I'm not okay with it.
Roxi - So...
Ricky - So, I also know there's no point in arguing with you now.
Roxi - Really?
Ricky - Yeah, I figure, why stress you out anymore, might as well just let you do what you want.
Roxi - Are trying to guilt me into not going?
Ricky - No.
Roxi - Good. Now let's go.
Ricky - You got everything?
Roxi - Yeah. Can you carry this for me?
Ricky - What's in it?
Roxi - My hair dryer.
Ricky - Must be industrial strength. Jesus this is heavy.
Roxi - Can't leave home without it.
Ricky - Funny.
After that failed experiment, I decided that I didn't NEED a gimmick. In fact, I said **** a gimmick. I was giving the people what they wanted. In my eyes anyway, I guess. I was just going to be play old Ricky Johnson. The best wrestler in NCW, with, or without some goofy character attachment. I guess I just accepted it. Like I was on some kind of 12-step program.
And you know, for the most part I was right. I managed to do very well on my own, under my own name, on my own merits and abilities. I did well for myself. I had a new found confidence in myself and my ability. And I realized that it didn't matter what my name was, or how I labeled myself, what mattered is what you do in the ring, what you say on the mic, and how you carry yourself. I was very good at doing that.
I won my second NCW title defeating Shaun Wilson for the X-Division championship. I knew at that point I was going to eventually win the world title. Little did I know that my life would soon start spiraling out of control, and the world title would be the last thing on my mind.
You should be aware of things like this Todd. Or rather, not be so oblivious.
Things are constantly changing around you. And yet, all you can concern yourself with is you. I'm amazed you knew enough about sex to impregnate Crystal. But hey, I'm not judging. The point is things can change in an instant. Everything you know and love can be taken from you. All it takes is 3 seconds to lose your title. It could be the fastest 3 seconds on your life Sunday. And the worse 3 seconds.
Think about it Todd. 1. 2. 3. Just like that, it's all over. No huge pay-per-view win, no victory party and most importantly, no championship.
But I think you know it's going to be a long, brutal match. It's going to be knock-down drag-out, and all those other cleche's. It's going to be a war.
And in war, you have to be willing to accept casualties. Are you ready for war, Todd? Being friends goes out the window when that World title is on the line.
And, as they say, everything, in war is fair.
Ricky - You know you really shouldn't fly in your condition.
Roxi - Stop trying to talk me out of going.
Ricky - I'm not. I'm just stating a fact.
Roxi - I'll be fine.
Ricky - Okay.
Airport ticket clerk - All passengers for flight 57 to Las Vegas, we're now boarding.
Roxi - That's us.
Ricky - Well, let's go.
Roxi - You're still upset aren't you?
Ricky - No.
Roxi - Liar.
Ricky - If you're asking me if I'm completely comfortable with my pregnant wife taking an airplane and putting herself in danger, then you're right, I am lying.
Roxi - Does it mean that much to you?
Ricky - What? you? Of course.
Roxi - No. Winning.
Ricky - The title is second to you.
Roxi - If it makes you feel any better, I am completely confident in you.
Ricky - ...It does. But I still don't like this.
Roxi - Listen to me, I'm not getting in the ring any time soon. I'm just going to be there and enjoy the show like everyone else.
Ricky - I should fly Marcos out too.
Roxi - Just let it go. Stop worrying about my safety and start thinking about Todd.
Ricky - ...
I was doing okay then I got injured in the 2008. I had to take some time away, so I did. But you know, I guess you can call it Karma, but I came back way too soon. I wasn't ready, but you know, I stuck it out. I was confident in my abilities to be sure, but dammit, in hindsight it was a terrible idea. But not as terrible as what actually occurred.
Roxi and I were married on the 11th of May in 2008. It was a great day in my life. I felt complete. I felt really good. I guess I should have known that bad things were on the horizon. Things were going just too well for there not to be some kind of karma. And boy, when she wants to be, karma is a bitch.
As most of you know, this is Roxi's second pregnancy. The first one obviously didn't go so well. You remember that Roxi was shot, based on my stupidity. It's nothing short of a miracle that Roxi herself didn't die. But, as I've learned and continue to learn, I shouldn't doubt my wife.
I was so distraught and filled with grief, that at one point, I considered taking my own life. I didn't care anymore. But it was Kelly Knite and this company that saved me, while I couldn't save anybody.
I have been trying to repay them ever since.
I still wasn't 100% when I came back, and on top of that, I was painting my face like a clown. God, those were just some dark times, and in dark times, I guess I can justify doing stupid things. No, I won't insult anyone's intellegence here, let's just say it was phase.
I had almost no confidence in myself, but I did manage to win a battle royal for a shot at the tag team titles. And much to everyone's shock and amazement, I picked John Anthony to be my partner. And Jesus that was a load to carry. And then, even more shockingly, we won the tag team titles.
If you ever want to know how I felt Todd, just ask Trent or Xander how it felt to carry you.
But, as with any failed marriage, things just didn't work out. I got tired of carrying John Anthony's dead weight, so I dropped him like a bad habit, then ended his career.
Think about it Todd. You and John were a lot alike. Annoying, foolish, and at times, just worthless. I brought that guy his only glory in NCW, and he couldn't carry his own weight. Just like unable to carry the weight of the world title. I hope you are enjoying these last few days as champion. I really do. Because I know you're going to enjoy it more when you don't have to worry about it, after I beat you.
Ricky - You doing okay?
Roxi - I'm okay. Stomach hurts a little, but otherwise okay.
Ricky - Was it the plane?
Roxi - No it was the two children playing soccer inside.
Ricky - Ah.
Hotel Receptionist - Welcome back, Mr. Johnson.
Ricky - Thanks. Is my room ready?
Hotel Receptionist - Your master suite is ready.
Ricky - Thank you.
Hotel Receptionist - Does she need a room key, Mr. Johnson?
Ricky - Yes.
Hotel Receptionist - Oh, so no big party this time?
Ricky - No.
Hotel Receptionist - Okay, hang on one second and I'll get those keys.
Roxi - ....
Ricky - What?
Roxi - What did she mean Party?
Ricky - It was a joke.
Roxi - Really?
Ricky - Yes. See, this is another reason why I didn't want you to come.
Roxi - So you could have a party?
Ricky - No. Because you'll blow things out of proportion.
Roxi - How am I not going to take something like that the wrong way.
Ricky - You do it constantly. Remember Sarah?
Roxi - You going to throw that at me?
Ricky - It's just an example. Seriously, let it go
Hotel Receptionist - Here are your keys. Enjoy your stay.
Ricky - Thank you.
Roxi - ...I'm serious Ricky, I want to know about that party.
I decided to take a bit of break. I needed to let some nagging injuries heal, so for most of 2009, I was away. When I came back, I just wasn't the same guy I used to be. I changed. I became obsessed with winning the world title. But, in reality, I can honestly admit that I wasn't ready for it. I wasn't world title material.
You should be able to relate to that Todd.
No, I wasn't ready. So, I plugged along, everyday getting stronger, better than I was the day before. I always wanted to be the best, and this time around, I was hell bent on proving it.
I knew that I would have to make an impact to get the attention of the championship committee. So, after damn near ending, but certainly shortening Jason Evans career, I got my shot. I got myself an Honor championship triple threat match. Against Atreyu and Nelly Angel.
And guess what, I beat them both. I was the Honor champion. Then, a week later I was the Xtreme Champion. If that's what Leonard Fox wanted to do, then so be it. I got no problem winning another title without actually having a match.
It wasn't really what I wanted, I was beginning to buy my own hype as a world title contender. But after losing the title, I just...kinda became aimless. I was lost in the shuffle, and I was waiting for a chance.
A chance that never came.
Until I took it.
Ricky - That's it.
Roxi - You swear?
Ricky - I swear, scouts honor. Now can we please drop this?
{Ricky lays down on the bed, while Roxi stares out the window.}
Roxi - So, what are we doing tonight?
Ricky - WE aren't doing anything. I'd like to get some rest.
Roxi - Really?
Ricky - Yes. What really?
Roxi - This is VEGAS! It's Sin City! and you're going to sit here like a bump on a log?
Ricky - I'm tired Roxi. You know you shouldn't be partying either.
Roxi - Who says we need to party? Let's hit the strip.
Ricky - No.
Roxi - See a magic show.
Ricky - No.
Roxi - Hit the casinos?
Ricky - No.
Roxi - God, you are so lame.
Ricky - We can watch some TV.
Roxi - We can do that literally ANYWHERE.
Ricky - I'm just not about partying or doing much tonight. How about tomorrow?
Roxi - What are you, 90? How many times can you come to Vegas?
Ricky - I've been here before.
Roxi - Well then, you know what? Sit there. Be a bump. I'm going to have some fun.
Ricky - Roxi, be reasonable.
Roxi - I'm living. I'm going to enjoy myself.
Ricky - Where are you going?
Roxi - Out.
Ricky - ...This woman is going to kill me. WAIT UP!
Which brings me to last year. I knew for a fact that I worked hard. I knew for a fact that I was good. And yet, there was NOTHING. Nothing for me to show for all my hard work. I was simply just "a guy" on the roster. So, after I crushed all the opposition, I took my shot at Steve Awesome. I played on the FACT, not conspiracy, but fact that Steve Awesome was the man, for some strange reason. I never understood it then, and I don't now, but that's neither here nor there.
I had to do it myself, but dammit, I got my shot, my first shot at the world title, and you know what, Steve got the better of me, because I wasn't ready. I was too eager, too careless. I let my emotions take over. And I lost.
But you know what, I may have lost the match, and the one after that, but I BROKE Steve Awesome. He is now a shell of what he once was. He never going to be the same again.
I proved to the world that one day, I would become the world champion. That I would do what I said I would do. It just wasn't my night.
Neither was Battlegrounds. But that's what I get for having to deal with a jackass for a partner. But even he taught me a valuable lesson that night Todd, you can't rely on people to win titles for you. You have to do it yourself.
So I set out to eliminate any and all contenders so that I could once again get my world title match. And wouldn't you know it, along the way I won the National championship for a second time, and held it longer than anyone.
But this stuff, you already knew.
Ricky - Why did we come here.
Roxi - It's a bar. It's a social thing. Plus, I did you a favor.
Ricky - What did you do?
Roxi - You'll see.
Bartender - Everybody, everybody, I have an annoucement.
Ricky - You didn't.
Roxi - What?
Bartender - Tonight we have a special guest, who's going to not only entertain us Sunday, but tonight, he's the guest of honor.
Ricky - Roxi...
Roxi - What?
Bartender - Please welcome, NCW superstar Ricky Johnson!
{wild applause}
Ricky - Really?
Roxi - Stand up, take a bow.
Bartender - Mr. Johnson, we're wondering if you would like to ...do a little karaoke?
{A "RI-CKY RI-CKY" chant breaks out in the bar.
Ricky - Not really.
Roxi - Don't be such a girl. Get up there.
Ricky - ...I hate you so much right now.
Roxi - He said he'll do it!
{wild cheering}
Ricky - *sigh* Fine.
Roxi - Whoo!
{Ricky grudgingly gets up on stage, and a familiar tune starts.
You can sing along if you like.}
God, I thought I went over the "Rockstar" stuff already? Anyway...
Well Todd, that..
Wait.
Wait a minute.
Did I hear you correctly Todd? Did you compare yourself to the "Showtime" era Los Angeles Lakers? And not only the Lakers, but Magic Johnson?
Really?
You? Magic Johnson? Please. Listen Todd, Do me a favor and let me handle any and all analogies, because you are just downright terrible at it. You are not ANY of the "Showtime" Lakers. No, if you're anybody like that, you'd be a more current player.
Lamar Odom.
It fits you like a glove. All kinds of talent. NO heart. Just a guy happy to be along for the ride, letting the real talent do their jobs, and collecting all the rewards. You're worse than Adam Coleman is on Borderlands.
There, now that that's out of the way, I really hope you paid enough attention Todd. I've been through a lot of changes. From the beginning til now, I'm gone through and experienced a lot. And now, we come to A Night to Remember.
But did you noticed something else as well? No, I'm sure it went over your head, you could miss an elephant at the circus.
No matter what I've done, no matter what I've gone through, there was something that never changed. Did you catch it?
Being a champion.
It's what I am. No matter what silly gimmick or crazy idea I've run with, I've been a winner, and a champion. Just like I'm going to be Sunday. Let me ask you a question Todd, does it really matter to you if the fans want me to beat you?
Does it bother you that much? I mean, don't you love those internet smarks clamoring for this match? Aren't they with you? Or have lost them too? Have you no one rooting for you outside of your family? Are THEY even rooting for you? I know that you have one major fan rooting for you.
Me.
Not to win of course, but to come out and give me what you got. Give me everything, show me exactly what you're made of. Because I'm going to be honest here Todd, without giving it everything..
you don't have a ****ing prayer.
....
Wait. Wait.
You know something, there's something else that's never changed, among all those changes, and all that history. And I'd just be a terrible person if I didn't mention it.
Roxi. My wife.
She's always been there, unlike some people's wives. She's always been my rock, my foundation. I owe a lot of this, a lot of the things I've done, a lot of my success, to her. I'm sure you've got some kind of joke about her lined up Todd, and you know what, that's okay.
Because there will be another change in my life after A Night to Remember, when I beat you for the world title.
I will have accomplished it all.
But one thing will stay the same, and will always stay the same.
Roxi and I will do this, like we've done everything else....
Together.
I mean, look at me. I'm obviously not the same man I was all those years ago. I've been married, I've having kids. I wasn't always this way Todd. I guess you have to be ready to accept change.
And it sounds like you are ready Todd.
I heard the doubt in your voice. You know I'm right about all this. You know your time is up.
You know that May 14th, you will be minus the world title.
Make no mistake, I want this to be an epic match, but I'm just thinking that you aren't in the right frame of mind. I think you're already giving up. are you quitting on me Todd?
I get it, you and I aren't enemies right now. In fact, we're pretty good friends.
But as you said yourself, no madden game, no call of duty game, none of those things matter when it comes to being in the ring. And this night, is about you and me in the ring. So I don't know why you would bring it up, but none the less, it doesn't matter.
And when it's all over, and I've won the world title, I will still be your friend...even though you've made some smart ass comments every chance you get. Don't think I haven't heard them Todd. Don't think I haven't been paying attention. I have, and I owe you for every little remark you made about me, about my wife, about my skills.
The fact is, you don't really know me like that Todd. You don't much as it is, but you don't get it.
So once again, for your benefit I will educate you.
Ricky - What are you doing?
Roxi - I'm packing.
Ricky - I can see that, why are you packing?
Roxi - Because I'm going with you.
Ricky - No. You're not.
Roxi - Yes. I am.
Ricky - Roxi, you don't need to go.
Roxi - And why not?
Ricky - Babe, look at yourself. You're pregnant. You don't need to be anywhere near the ring, or the arena.
Roxi - I'm going, and that's final.
Ricky - Listen to me. You. Are not. Going. What happens if you go into labor or something?
Roxi - I'll be fine.
Ricky - Oh really? There's not going to be anyone there, the ring doctor is not trained to deliver a baby.
Roxi - I don't really care, Ricky. I'm going to Las Vegas with, or without your consent.
Ricky - Why are you making this so difficult?
Roxi - I'm not. You are. You're the one arguing with me.
Ricky - You're just being stubborn, now.
Roxi - Then drop it. I'm going with you.
Ricky - You want to give me something else to worry about aside from Todd Williams?
Roxi - No. Because you are going to worry about Todd, and not about me.
Ricky - You know I can't do that. Roxi, will you please listen to reason.
Roxi - Hmm?
Ricky - Come on, please.
Roxi - Shh. I listening to reason.
Ricky - Very funny. I'm being serious Rox, you cannot put yourself in that kind of situation.
Roxi - What situation? sitting in the front row and watching you destroy Todd.
Ricky - That's not what I meant, dammit.
Roxi - Oh really, then what did you mean? I may be pregnant, but I'm not helpless.
Ricky - I never said you were.
Roxi - But that's what your really implying isn't it? You don't think I can handle myself anymore, do you?
Ricky - It's not - Jesus why are you being so difficult right now? I want to do this for you.
Roxi - And I want to be there when you do it.
I started here in 2007, I had a terrible gimmick. good 'ol "Rockstar" Ricky Johnson. And while I do actually play guitar, it was still so very, very silly. You guys that were here remember that don't you? There were a bunch of "rockstar" puns, and it was just so god-awful I've tried very hard to wash away those memories. Or rather, drown them in large quantities of alcohol.
I tried really hard to work with it, but it wasn't fun. I would like to think that mostly I used it because my skills weren't exactly where they needed to be. So I tried very hard to use the gimmick to cover my own shortcomings.
Hell, I think I even sung in a promo once. I know you don't remember this, because you weren't around. Be glad you never had to witness that. Although I know I'm a better singer than you. And a better wrestler. And a better champion. And a better man. But that's beside the point. The point here, and That "rockstar" thing got really old, really quick. And maybe, just out of shear pigheadedness, I tried to make it work. People seemed to like me, but that gimmick had to go. And I guess you can say I wasn't ready to let it go. I was in denial. I mean, it's not like I was terrible with it.
I beat Milo Holland for the National Championship with that damn gimmick. I pulled off a major upset and shocked the world. Much like you would do 5 years later, winning the world title when no one thought you would. Although I pulled being a champion off successfully.
Unlike you.
That's always been the difference Todd, I have EARNED my titles, while for you, it was simply...your night.
It will not be your night Sunday.
Ricky - Well?
Roxi - Well what?
Ricky - ...Are you packed.
Roxi - Oh, so now you're okay with it?
Ricky - No, I'm not okay with it.
Roxi - So...
Ricky - So, I also know there's no point in arguing with you now.
Roxi - Really?
Ricky - Yeah, I figure, why stress you out anymore, might as well just let you do what you want.
Roxi - Are trying to guilt me into not going?
Ricky - No.
Roxi - Good. Now let's go.
Ricky - You got everything?
Roxi - Yeah. Can you carry this for me?
Ricky - What's in it?
Roxi - My hair dryer.
Ricky - Must be industrial strength. Jesus this is heavy.
Roxi - Can't leave home without it.
Ricky - Funny.
After that failed experiment, I decided that I didn't NEED a gimmick. In fact, I said **** a gimmick. I was giving the people what they wanted. In my eyes anyway, I guess. I was just going to be play old Ricky Johnson. The best wrestler in NCW, with, or without some goofy character attachment. I guess I just accepted it. Like I was on some kind of 12-step program.
And you know, for the most part I was right. I managed to do very well on my own, under my own name, on my own merits and abilities. I did well for myself. I had a new found confidence in myself and my ability. And I realized that it didn't matter what my name was, or how I labeled myself, what mattered is what you do in the ring, what you say on the mic, and how you carry yourself. I was very good at doing that.
I won my second NCW title defeating Shaun Wilson for the X-Division championship. I knew at that point I was going to eventually win the world title. Little did I know that my life would soon start spiraling out of control, and the world title would be the last thing on my mind.
You should be aware of things like this Todd. Or rather, not be so oblivious.
Things are constantly changing around you. And yet, all you can concern yourself with is you. I'm amazed you knew enough about sex to impregnate Crystal. But hey, I'm not judging. The point is things can change in an instant. Everything you know and love can be taken from you. All it takes is 3 seconds to lose your title. It could be the fastest 3 seconds on your life Sunday. And the worse 3 seconds.
Think about it Todd. 1. 2. 3. Just like that, it's all over. No huge pay-per-view win, no victory party and most importantly, no championship.
But I think you know it's going to be a long, brutal match. It's going to be knock-down drag-out, and all those other cleche's. It's going to be a war.
And in war, you have to be willing to accept casualties. Are you ready for war, Todd? Being friends goes out the window when that World title is on the line.
And, as they say, everything, in war is fair.
Ricky - You know you really shouldn't fly in your condition.
Roxi - Stop trying to talk me out of going.
Ricky - I'm not. I'm just stating a fact.
Roxi - I'll be fine.
Ricky - Okay.
Airport ticket clerk - All passengers for flight 57 to Las Vegas, we're now boarding.
Roxi - That's us.
Ricky - Well, let's go.
Roxi - You're still upset aren't you?
Ricky - No.
Roxi - Liar.
Ricky - If you're asking me if I'm completely comfortable with my pregnant wife taking an airplane and putting herself in danger, then you're right, I am lying.
Roxi - Does it mean that much to you?
Ricky - What? you? Of course.
Roxi - No. Winning.
Ricky - The title is second to you.
Roxi - If it makes you feel any better, I am completely confident in you.
Ricky - ...It does. But I still don't like this.
Roxi - Listen to me, I'm not getting in the ring any time soon. I'm just going to be there and enjoy the show like everyone else.
Ricky - I should fly Marcos out too.
Roxi - Just let it go. Stop worrying about my safety and start thinking about Todd.
Ricky - ...
I was doing okay then I got injured in the 2008. I had to take some time away, so I did. But you know, I guess you can call it Karma, but I came back way too soon. I wasn't ready, but you know, I stuck it out. I was confident in my abilities to be sure, but dammit, in hindsight it was a terrible idea. But not as terrible as what actually occurred.
Roxi and I were married on the 11th of May in 2008. It was a great day in my life. I felt complete. I felt really good. I guess I should have known that bad things were on the horizon. Things were going just too well for there not to be some kind of karma. And boy, when she wants to be, karma is a bitch.
As most of you know, this is Roxi's second pregnancy. The first one obviously didn't go so well. You remember that Roxi was shot, based on my stupidity. It's nothing short of a miracle that Roxi herself didn't die. But, as I've learned and continue to learn, I shouldn't doubt my wife.
I was so distraught and filled with grief, that at one point, I considered taking my own life. I didn't care anymore. But it was Kelly Knite and this company that saved me, while I couldn't save anybody.
I have been trying to repay them ever since.
I still wasn't 100% when I came back, and on top of that, I was painting my face like a clown. God, those were just some dark times, and in dark times, I guess I can justify doing stupid things. No, I won't insult anyone's intellegence here, let's just say it was phase.
I had almost no confidence in myself, but I did manage to win a battle royal for a shot at the tag team titles. And much to everyone's shock and amazement, I picked John Anthony to be my partner. And Jesus that was a load to carry. And then, even more shockingly, we won the tag team titles.
If you ever want to know how I felt Todd, just ask Trent or Xander how it felt to carry you.
But, as with any failed marriage, things just didn't work out. I got tired of carrying John Anthony's dead weight, so I dropped him like a bad habit, then ended his career.
Think about it Todd. You and John were a lot alike. Annoying, foolish, and at times, just worthless. I brought that guy his only glory in NCW, and he couldn't carry his own weight. Just like unable to carry the weight of the world title. I hope you are enjoying these last few days as champion. I really do. Because I know you're going to enjoy it more when you don't have to worry about it, after I beat you.
Ricky - You doing okay?
Roxi - I'm okay. Stomach hurts a little, but otherwise okay.
Ricky - Was it the plane?
Roxi - No it was the two children playing soccer inside.
Ricky - Ah.
Hotel Receptionist - Welcome back, Mr. Johnson.
Ricky - Thanks. Is my room ready?
Hotel Receptionist - Your master suite is ready.
Ricky - Thank you.
Hotel Receptionist - Does she need a room key, Mr. Johnson?
Ricky - Yes.
Hotel Receptionist - Oh, so no big party this time?
Ricky - No.
Hotel Receptionist - Okay, hang on one second and I'll get those keys.
Roxi - ....
Ricky - What?
Roxi - What did she mean Party?
Ricky - It was a joke.
Roxi - Really?
Ricky - Yes. See, this is another reason why I didn't want you to come.
Roxi - So you could have a party?
Ricky - No. Because you'll blow things out of proportion.
Roxi - How am I not going to take something like that the wrong way.
Ricky - You do it constantly. Remember Sarah?
Roxi - You going to throw that at me?
Ricky - It's just an example. Seriously, let it go
Hotel Receptionist - Here are your keys. Enjoy your stay.
Ricky - Thank you.
Roxi - ...I'm serious Ricky, I want to know about that party.
I decided to take a bit of break. I needed to let some nagging injuries heal, so for most of 2009, I was away. When I came back, I just wasn't the same guy I used to be. I changed. I became obsessed with winning the world title. But, in reality, I can honestly admit that I wasn't ready for it. I wasn't world title material.
You should be able to relate to that Todd.
No, I wasn't ready. So, I plugged along, everyday getting stronger, better than I was the day before. I always wanted to be the best, and this time around, I was hell bent on proving it.
I knew that I would have to make an impact to get the attention of the championship committee. So, after damn near ending, but certainly shortening Jason Evans career, I got my shot. I got myself an Honor championship triple threat match. Against Atreyu and Nelly Angel.
And guess what, I beat them both. I was the Honor champion. Then, a week later I was the Xtreme Champion. If that's what Leonard Fox wanted to do, then so be it. I got no problem winning another title without actually having a match.
It wasn't really what I wanted, I was beginning to buy my own hype as a world title contender. But after losing the title, I just...kinda became aimless. I was lost in the shuffle, and I was waiting for a chance.
A chance that never came.
Until I took it.
Ricky - That's it.
Roxi - You swear?
Ricky - I swear, scouts honor. Now can we please drop this?
{Ricky lays down on the bed, while Roxi stares out the window.}
Roxi - So, what are we doing tonight?
Ricky - WE aren't doing anything. I'd like to get some rest.
Roxi - Really?
Ricky - Yes. What really?
Roxi - This is VEGAS! It's Sin City! and you're going to sit here like a bump on a log?
Ricky - I'm tired Roxi. You know you shouldn't be partying either.
Roxi - Who says we need to party? Let's hit the strip.
Ricky - No.
Roxi - See a magic show.
Ricky - No.
Roxi - Hit the casinos?
Ricky - No.
Roxi - God, you are so lame.
Ricky - We can watch some TV.
Roxi - We can do that literally ANYWHERE.
Ricky - I'm just not about partying or doing much tonight. How about tomorrow?
Roxi - What are you, 90? How many times can you come to Vegas?
Ricky - I've been here before.
Roxi - Well then, you know what? Sit there. Be a bump. I'm going to have some fun.
Ricky - Roxi, be reasonable.
Roxi - I'm living. I'm going to enjoy myself.
Ricky - Where are you going?
Roxi - Out.
Ricky - ...This woman is going to kill me. WAIT UP!
Which brings me to last year. I knew for a fact that I worked hard. I knew for a fact that I was good. And yet, there was NOTHING. Nothing for me to show for all my hard work. I was simply just "a guy" on the roster. So, after I crushed all the opposition, I took my shot at Steve Awesome. I played on the FACT, not conspiracy, but fact that Steve Awesome was the man, for some strange reason. I never understood it then, and I don't now, but that's neither here nor there.
I had to do it myself, but dammit, I got my shot, my first shot at the world title, and you know what, Steve got the better of me, because I wasn't ready. I was too eager, too careless. I let my emotions take over. And I lost.
But you know what, I may have lost the match, and the one after that, but I BROKE Steve Awesome. He is now a shell of what he once was. He never going to be the same again.
I proved to the world that one day, I would become the world champion. That I would do what I said I would do. It just wasn't my night.
Neither was Battlegrounds. But that's what I get for having to deal with a jackass for a partner. But even he taught me a valuable lesson that night Todd, you can't rely on people to win titles for you. You have to do it yourself.
So I set out to eliminate any and all contenders so that I could once again get my world title match. And wouldn't you know it, along the way I won the National championship for a second time, and held it longer than anyone.
But this stuff, you already knew.
Ricky - Why did we come here.
Roxi - It's a bar. It's a social thing. Plus, I did you a favor.
Ricky - What did you do?
Roxi - You'll see.
Bartender - Everybody, everybody, I have an annoucement.
Ricky - You didn't.
Roxi - What?
Bartender - Tonight we have a special guest, who's going to not only entertain us Sunday, but tonight, he's the guest of honor.
Ricky - Roxi...
Roxi - What?
Bartender - Please welcome, NCW superstar Ricky Johnson!
{wild applause}
Ricky - Really?
Roxi - Stand up, take a bow.
Bartender - Mr. Johnson, we're wondering if you would like to ...do a little karaoke?
{A "RI-CKY RI-CKY" chant breaks out in the bar.
Ricky - Not really.
Roxi - Don't be such a girl. Get up there.
Ricky - ...I hate you so much right now.
Roxi - He said he'll do it!
{wild cheering}
Ricky - *sigh* Fine.
Roxi - Whoo!
{Ricky grudgingly gets up on stage, and a familiar tune starts.
You can sing along if you like.}
Ricky - (singing)
Just a small town girl.
living in a loney world.
She took the midnight train
going any-where
Just a city boy
born and raised in south Detriot.
He took the midnight train
going any-where
A singer in a smokey room
the smell of wine and cheap perfume
for a smile they can share the night
it goes on and on and on and on.
Strangers waiting
up and down the boulevard
their shadows
searching in the night
streetlights people
living just to find emotion
hiding somewhere
in the night!
Working hard to get my fill
everybody wants the thrill
paying anything just to roll the dice
one more time.
some will win
some will lose
some are born to sing the blues
oh, the movie it never ends
it goes on and on and on and on
Strangers waiting
up and down the boulevard
their shadows
searching in the night
streetlights people
living just to find emotion
hiding somewhere
in the night!
Don't stop! Believing!
Hold on to that feeling
streetlight people
Don't stop! Believing!
Hold on to that feeling
Don't stop.
Just a small town girl.
living in a loney world.
She took the midnight train
going any-where
Just a city boy
born and raised in south Detriot.
He took the midnight train
going any-where
A singer in a smokey room
the smell of wine and cheap perfume
for a smile they can share the night
it goes on and on and on and on.
Strangers waiting
up and down the boulevard
their shadows
searching in the night
streetlights people
living just to find emotion
hiding somewhere
in the night!
Working hard to get my fill
everybody wants the thrill
paying anything just to roll the dice
one more time.
some will win
some will lose
some are born to sing the blues
oh, the movie it never ends
it goes on and on and on and on
Strangers waiting
up and down the boulevard
their shadows
searching in the night
streetlights people
living just to find emotion
hiding somewhere
in the night!
Don't stop! Believing!
Hold on to that feeling
streetlight people
Don't stop! Believing!
Hold on to that feeling
Don't stop.
God, I thought I went over the "Rockstar" stuff already? Anyway...
Well Todd, that..
Wait.
Wait a minute.
Did I hear you correctly Todd? Did you compare yourself to the "Showtime" era Los Angeles Lakers? And not only the Lakers, but Magic Johnson?
Really?
You? Magic Johnson? Please. Listen Todd, Do me a favor and let me handle any and all analogies, because you are just downright terrible at it. You are not ANY of the "Showtime" Lakers. No, if you're anybody like that, you'd be a more current player.
Lamar Odom.
It fits you like a glove. All kinds of talent. NO heart. Just a guy happy to be along for the ride, letting the real talent do their jobs, and collecting all the rewards. You're worse than Adam Coleman is on Borderlands.
There, now that that's out of the way, I really hope you paid enough attention Todd. I've been through a lot of changes. From the beginning til now, I'm gone through and experienced a lot. And now, we come to A Night to Remember.
But did you noticed something else as well? No, I'm sure it went over your head, you could miss an elephant at the circus.
No matter what I've done, no matter what I've gone through, there was something that never changed. Did you catch it?
Being a champion.
It's what I am. No matter what silly gimmick or crazy idea I've run with, I've been a winner, and a champion. Just like I'm going to be Sunday. Let me ask you a question Todd, does it really matter to you if the fans want me to beat you?
Does it bother you that much? I mean, don't you love those internet smarks clamoring for this match? Aren't they with you? Or have lost them too? Have you no one rooting for you outside of your family? Are THEY even rooting for you? I know that you have one major fan rooting for you.
Me.
Not to win of course, but to come out and give me what you got. Give me everything, show me exactly what you're made of. Because I'm going to be honest here Todd, without giving it everything..
you don't have a ****ing prayer.
....
Wait. Wait.
You know something, there's something else that's never changed, among all those changes, and all that history. And I'd just be a terrible person if I didn't mention it.
Roxi. My wife.
She's always been there, unlike some people's wives. She's always been my rock, my foundation. I owe a lot of this, a lot of the things I've done, a lot of my success, to her. I'm sure you've got some kind of joke about her lined up Todd, and you know what, that's okay.
Because there will be another change in my life after A Night to Remember, when I beat you for the world title.
I will have accomplished it all.
But one thing will stay the same, and will always stay the same.
Roxi and I will do this, like we've done everything else....
Together.
