Close encounters (Invite)

[irons]

~(In what had already been shaping up to be one of the most talked about XWA PPVs in recent memory, we see John Irons backstage in the locker room. He was in the process of putting his gear on as Joe Beakman enters the shot for a quick interview.)~

John, word has it that Dan Ripley's fuming about losing to you at the supershow, and is looking for some payback against you tonight. Any thoughts?

*Hehheh* Any thoughts? Of course I have thoughts. I know Dan Ripley's type well. All high and might when they win, but ready to pitch fit when they lose. Seen it all before. But that's the reason why you see I'm all geared up. I ain't neva' backed down from a fight my whole life, and tonight damn sure ain't no different. Ripley wants a fight? Then he'll get a fight.

Seems like you're pretty confident you can have a repeat performance.

I know what Ripley's pedigree is. I know what kind of wrestler he is. But even guys with his credentials can get beat. I proved it last week, and I'll prove it again tonight. Someone needs to shut his Upper East Side ass up. Who betta' to do it then someone from Harlem?

~(Just as Irons speaks his response...)~

[vikram]

*With Permission*

He's blindsided by "The British Barbarian" Vikram. Beakman dives our of the as if a train was baring down on them, but Irons wasn't able to escape the rush. The impact of Vikram's charge sends Irons flying into the locker stalls, knocking a few of them over. Vikram continues the punishment with a few timely stomps to the stomach and chest of Irons as he tries his best to cover up. Vikram takes a step back to admire his handy work.

Looky 'ere, mate. Ain't so tough when ya' lyin' on ya' back now, are ya'?

[pancho]

Into the scene comes Dan Ripley. The fans in the arena hiss and boo as he nonchalantly walks over to the downed John Irons and kneels over him to speak.

I don't know what you "think" you know about me Irons, but whatever it is...you're wrong. Dead wrong. Because the way I see things, guys like me always end up stepping on guys like you. I'm a big timer, you're a little fish. Last week proved nothing. It only showed that you can catch a guy on an off night. Tonight on the other hand...is a totally different story. Tonight, me and Vikram here are going to teach you the valuable lesson that when you swim with sharks, chances are you'll end up being eaten alive.

With an unsurly grin, Ripley rises back to his feet. With a nod of his head, he and his associate Vikram leave the locker room.

[irons]

~(Irons winces in pain as he watches Ripley and Vikram leave. It was clear to him at moment that things for him where going to be quite difficult in XWA. Ring Rage then goes back to ringside for the next match.)~