Post by Ragnarok on Apr 3, 2024 13:09:44 GMT -5
Memories: Always 2nd place
March 11th, 2005
Location: Stanford University 5 P.M.
Event: NCAA College Wrestling Championship: Ragnarök vs Jimmy McGriddle
The young Liberty University star surprised the college landscape when he advanced to NCAA Wrestling Championship match against a well-established name throughout the ranks. McGriddle was the top ranked star no one wanted to face. He was considered unbeatable, and he barely broke a sweat as he dealt with any opposition. However, Ragnarök was playing with house money and dealt with doubters the moment he started to compete. It took two years of practice, but he was finally going to get the recognition he fought so hard to get. The entire week leading up to the big match he walked the campus of Stanford. He realized just how different life was on the west coast. Regardless, he knew this was business and in just a few hours a crowd of 10,000 students, recruiters and alumni would have all eyes on him with a National Championship on the line. In order to keep levelheaded, the college star distracted himself with workouts and good positive conversations with everyone on campus.
Two hours later...
The sun was fading beyond the horizon. The atmosphere at Standford University was thick. The arena was loud as Ragnarök was introduced first. He walked out with a confident smile but a nervous body. He entered the ring knowing that in just a few moments the undefeated two-time reigning national champion would be face to face with him. None of that mattered to him. It was about proving he belongs in the ring with this man and showing that hard work pays off. The music stopped and the crowd quieted down as they showed Jimmy respect. His name might be funny, but his actions were quick and fierce. His competition struggled to survive a few minutes because his slap was deafening. In fact, rumor around the campus was he struck a man so hard it gave him a heart attack. He stepped over the rope looking at Ragnarök who paid him no mind. The media outlets gave Ragnarök a slim percentage for victory. The bell sounded as Ragnarök charged the champion. Kicking, biting, punching anything to weaken him. Yet, all Jimmy did was laugh standing to his feet and shoving him across the mat. Soon the champion took control of the match and prepared to hit his finisher the corkscrew slam. The crowd encouraged both men equally as the champ tried to finish the match, but Ragnarök refused and countered the move sending the champion over his head and to the mat. Soon the challenger was throwing him all around the ring. He didn't have the experience like the others, but he had willpower. He continued to strike him with his entire arsenal as the champ staggered along Ragnarök went for The Reckoning and nailed it twice on the champ. The crowd was going crazy as the young man made the pin.
1
2
2.9999
The champ kicked out and Ragnarök was stunned. The crowd couldn't believe it. Hell, the referee was shocked. Ragnarök had to capitalize though as he continued to work the champ hard but soon Jimmy would get the upper hand and hit the corkscrew slam. The champ smirked as he went for the cover confident the match as over.
1
2
2.99
The challenger kicked out. Ragnarök made history in that moment. No one had ever kicked out of his finisher as the champ was in disbelief and snapped. Throwing him around the mat and outside the ring. Pounding him into a bloody mess as Ragnarök passed out and the match is called.
Announcer: Here is your winner and National Champion once again Jimmy McGriddle.
Aftermath
Ragnarök lasted 25 minutes with a man that averaged 5-minute matches throughout his undefeated college career. So even though the champ celebrated his third straight National Championship his ego was bruised. his reputation was tarnished all because one man known as Ragnarök refused to give up and be the first guy to make him work for the victory. However, always being second place would have new meaning now if he couldn't redeem himself. The path was clear for the young man as he put on a show and left it all in the ring. Soon though the crowd started to leave, and he was alone in his private room when someone knocked on his door. Confused as to who would want to speak with him, he got up and answered. The door swung open and there stood a man who would forever change his life.
Ragnarök: Hello.
?: Hello, young man. I apologize for interrupting your private time of reflection. Let me introduce myself. The name is Harlem Kicks. I'm not a scout here to kiss your ass and tell you how much I believe in you. I think you're talented don't get me wrong, but I believe you can be the greatest ever if you just trust me. I want to mentor you, train and help you realize your dreams are not over in fact, they are just beginning.
Ragnarök: I will be just fine without the help. Thank you though.
?: If you say so young man. Arrogance is not a great trait to have.
The mystery man walked away leaving the young Ragnarök with his thoughts deep into the night. He had no idea just how rough the road was about to get and that these two men would cross paths again.
SIX MONTHS LATER
October 11th, 2005
Location: Golds Gym
Time: 6 P.M.
it has been seven months since the young man had the biggest opportunity of his career only to see it destroyed by the greatest college athlete of his time. In fact, Ragnarök hasn't won a match since that moment. He wasn't even sure if wrestling was his thing anymore because of how emotional he was and letting the sting of defeat really take him down a dark road. However, as he sat at the Golds Gym only blocks from his campus, he saw an older gentleman post something on the bulletin board near the front desk. He was curious when he noticed the words "wrestling tournament". So, he stood up ending his workout early and grabbed the flyer to read it.
"Last chance" wrestling program invites you for an opportunity to be scouted by the biggest names in the wrestling industry. Winner receives a customized title and a guaranteed tryout with a company of your choosing. No experience required. Sign up below and contact the following number.
555-555-5555
When Ragnarök finished, he smiled. It would be a great chance to show off in front of everyone again and prove that he still had passion. Weirdly enough though as he went to sign up and call the number, he noticed his name was written down.
Ragnarök: What the hell?
It must have one of his friends playing a joke on him knowing how much this stuff means to him. So, he brushed it off realizing his friends cared about him enough and this was the encouragement needed. He placed the flyer back on the board and walked outside to call the number.
Ragnarök: Hello. I'm calling about the wrestling tournament.
What he heard next would send a chill down his spine.
?: I knew you'd be calling Ragnarök. I've been waiting seven months for the chance to see you in action again. I know you've been on a cold streak lately and lack the confidence you had earlier this year.
Ragnarök: Who the fuck is this and why have you been watching me?
?: The name isn't important right now young man. I've been watching you because I believe you have what it takes to be the greatest of all time.
Ragnarök: What a minute. Are you that gentleman who spoke to me seven months earlier after my heart-breaking defeat to capture the National Championship?
?: Yes, I did this for you though. I offered my assistance to you then and now to prove the same point that with the right encouragement and motivation you can do anything you desire which includes entering the tournament and winning the whole damn thing. Who knows maybe you will even get redemption.
Ragnarök: Redemption? Please explain.
?: Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that Jimmy McGriddle is entering the tournament as he attempts to graduate with an undefeated record and a three-year title reign. Maybe you can be the guy to dethrone him and finish the story you started earlier this year.
Ragnarök: So, this wasn't about my talent. This is all about you and wanting to see me get my ass handed to me again.
?: NO! Stop that talk right now. Truth is young man I've trained some huge names in the industry. I have connections within the industry that can make or break a career. I respect the hard work you show. The never say die attitude is a great attribute of yours. However, I need to know if you'll be there or if you're going to end your college career on a sour note.
Ragnarök: Oh I'm in.
?: Good! The first round starts a week from today so be prepared.
He hung up unsure of what the future held for him. Eventually though the date would arrive and the tournament would begin.
October 18th, 2005
Location: Madison Square Garden
Time: 2 P.M.
Ragnarök arrived early trying to calm his nerves. He almost declined to show up after giving his word but doing so would ruin any hope of getting attention and national recognition. A few hours went by as the talented wrestlers continued to show up, but Ragnarök had his focus on McGriddle. It was what drove him to be here as well. The tournament was set up for them to compete in the finals if everything worked out the way it should. Soon enough though Ragnarök found himself in the ring competing once more. He made quick work of the first guy. The second-round opponent didn't stand much of a chance as he destroyed both of them in under ten minutes. The third opponent was more of a challenge but soon enough Ragnarök took care of business properly setting up the semifinal match. McGriddle managed to take care of business on his end as he advanced to the finals and sat waiting for his opponent. The last match of the night would be the young college star against Rick James a freshman who continued to pull upset victories out of his ass, but his run would end on this night as the determined college senior showed why he was on a mission. He delivered four powerbombs and three powerslams as he tossed Rick James aside like a rag. doll. He screamed at the top of his lungs.
Ragnarök: Bring me McGriddle!!!!
The night ends setting up a Sunday night main event rematch from earlier in the year. The next day the match was early afternoon. The crowd arrived early and soon the place was shaking. It was nothing like the first meeting as this was Madison Square Garden where legends are born. McGriddle eventually comes out after Ragnarök and holds the title up high pointing at it taunting his opponent. Ragnarök can be heard yelling.
Ragnarök: Did you miss me little man?
The crowd was popping. This was about to get very personal. Jimmy McGriddle got in the ring and before the match could even start Ragnarök attacked the champion. The crowd wasn't expecting such an explosion. The champion could barely react as he is kicked, punched and bloodied within minutes. Everyone was booing as they felt robbed of a fair match. Ragnarök continued the assault striking him with the title and anything else he could find. The referee was left no choice but to have Ragnarök forfeit the match. Once the announcement was made he threw the official out of the ring and picked up the champion tossing him over the top grabbing the title and holding it in his hand.
Ragnarök: THIS SHOULD'VE BEEN MINE!
Tossing it aside as the staff and security enter the ring trying to calm him down. It wasn't working. It took nearly fifteen minutes to
get everything under control. He was escorted to the back and stood against a wall. Soon though he had a visit. It was the man he met months ago and spoke to earlier last week. The gentleman was shaking his head.
Mr. Strickland: Ragnarök, you lack discipline. You lack Composure and make everything personal. You need my help right now more than ever because if I walk out those doors, I promise you will never get a job in this industry. What you did today was unacceptable. I can fix the attitude problem you have don't think I can't. I'm not one to scare off easily so the choice is yours. Do you accept my help or you ready to ruin your career before it even gets started?
He thought about the offer knowing the guy was right, but he hated having someone help him.
Ragnarök: I'll accept the help.
Mr. Strickland: Good. Now come with me.
The two gentlemen left the arena to an unknown future full of twist, turns and craziness which would span nearly thirty years. However, the road back to the top would never be easy for Ragnarök, He would bounce between the indies and big-name companies. The young man would suffer heartbreaking defeats and career defining wins. Mr. Strickland continued to push him to be the best version of himself making him realize that winning championships were nice but to keep his eye on the ultimate prize of being the number one guy for the first time in his career. The years went by, and nothing was good enough to get the opportunity. He stepped away from the industry multiple times battling depression, being divorced and feeling unsure of his future. However, all that changed one day when Mr. Strickland come by to speak with a man he respected and considered him a friend.
January 2024
Ragnarök invited Mr. Strickland in as they sat down.
Mr Strickland: Hey there young man. I know you're thinking about the future and wondering if you want to push on. I'm here to try and persuade you to give this one more year and give continue to trust the process with me.
Ragnarök: We've had this conversation each year since we became business partners. I've won multiple championships. I've met amazing people along the way and truly feel content with where my life is at. I'm curious though what do you have for me this year compared to others.
Mr. Strickland: You've shown discipline and patience over the years. I've been working behind the scenes for you. I know the injury you suffered in early December will be hard to recover from, but WGWF needs you. It wants you around for 2024 and a little birdie told me that it will take effort and dedication to get a big opportunity but you're up for the challenge.
He thought about the statement and felt something deep inside him that this would be a special year.
Ragnarök: You know what my guy. Let's run this back for 2024 but this is my FINAL run understood.
Mr. Strickland: Yes.
He left the home with a confirmation and went back to WGWF to give them the news. A few months later after returning from injury Ragnarök showed hard work regardless of outcome. Never complaining along the way and then March 2024 happened where he secured a main event spot against Enigma for the Smash Championship the biggest prize to date. The ride had been surreal and for the first time since his college days he was finally getting a chance to finish on top. His mind was racing trying to stay focused realizing he still had to compete for another month before taking his best shot at the monster. Enigma. Soon though the calendar flipped to April.
April 2nd, 2024
The nerves were starting to get to him. Ragnarök couldn't sit still as he thought his match. So, he decided to take a little walk to the local beach where he sat down under the moonlight looking out at the sea. WrestleWars was a few weeks away and the nerves were setting in as he received a text message from his mentor Mr. Strickland.
"Hey Rags, you already know who this is. I'm away on business right now but I will not miss your main event match against Enigma. I know I don't need to tell you the importance of this moment, match and opponent. Look at how the stars are aligning for you, my friend. You're main eventing night 1 of WrestleWars against the biggest name in WGWF history ENIGMA he has a reputation that no one can blemish. It's for the biggest prize Smash has to offer. So, take this moment and appreciate it because you have said for thirty years that you want to be the best. ENIGMA is the BEST in a landslide. Leave nothing for the doubters. Beat ENIGMA decisively and stay focused. You were a young man the last time something like this occurred for you and this could be your last chance. Love you man. Mr. Strickland."
He read the message with a smile and felt the encouragement. Everything he read was true. This was it for him. Nothing else would compare it was time he dug deep into his soul. So, he stood up looking into the vast sky the moonlight making him glow as he stood near the crashing waves and spoke.
Ragnarök: The winds of change are near ENIGMA. WrestleWars is an event made for a GOD. Welcome to the chaos my friend. You might be known as the monster around these parts but to me you are nothing but an obstacle. You're nothing but a mortal man to me. Monsters always end up captured or destroyed by the hero of the story and this is my chapter to finish not yours! I respect the path you took toward greatness and able to maintain it but I'm a fearless son of a bitch. I live for destruction. It gives me purpose. The world can talk about how great ENIGMA is and how I'm way over my head thinking I stand a chance. I used to let that shit bother me but it's time to flip the script. I say why not Ragnarök? The path to the top doesn't matter to anyone it's about what you do with the opportunity. I had a chance to secure this opportunity and I accomplished it and yet you doubt? Or maybe it's the fact the national media has their heads so far up his ass that they can't see that the monster reign is about to come to an end. A fighting warrior has arrived on a collision course at WrestleWars to show that the mighty will fall, and greatness will rise up from the ashes of the unknown.
The high tide starts rolling in as the water covers his feet, but no emotion is shown. Instead, he sat down among the waves as the roar became deafening. He looked down and smiled.
The waves crashing around me signals just how peaceful I find our situation. I used to be the cocky young college graduate who enjoyed making others suffer but now I just want to step in the ring with whoever I can. I'm man enough to admit that I'm not in my prime anymore and that's okay. I have the experience of a legend. My fire burns brighter than ever for this business and looking at you on the other side of the ring gives me chills. It drives me into overdrive because of what you represent not just to WGWF but the industry. In my opinion sir you're the greatest champion in the history of this company. Your name carries merit regardless of where I go, and I like that because I get to share the spotlight just to steal it from you and crush the hopes and dreams of an undefeated 2024 run. It might turn some fans against me but that is a sacrifice I'm willing to do in order to achieve my dream of world champion. I will leave no stone unturned for WrestleWars. I realize this calls for everything I have to offer and that will happen. ENIGMA will get a special combination that I've been working on. Your game is about dominating the breaking your opponent will to go on. News flash I don't have a GOD DAMN soul. I push back and don't give a damn who I piss off. The ring will not be big enough for our egotistical attitudes. One of us will be humbled and it won't be me. I've always been the runner-up and I'm sick of it. I refuse to be second best anymore for anyone. WGWF has been good to me even in moments of darkness for me and it's time I give back to them for the support. I know what I have to offer this company and it will elevate Smash to heights no one saw possible. I've been in the shadows lurking ready to strike when you didn't see it coming. All the pressure is on you ENIGMA at WrestleWars. Ragnarök is the WILDCARD and I love it that way. Everyone has been talking about my defeat like it is a foregone conclusion. That makes me dangerous. Hell, you've seen me in the ring when I have expectations just imagine what I can do what my back is against the wall.
Soon clouds roll in and cover the moon as Ragnarök stood up as his shadow disappeared and darkness overtook the beach.
ENIGMA, darkness is in your future. It's beyond anything you've ever experienced. Nothing can cure the feelings of dread and pain expect for acceptance. You must accept that truth and reality are the same. I used to be a man who loved the darkness and pissing people off and then I changed. However, I've studied your skills and realize that I need a good balance to overtake you. The darkness never left me I just buried it until it was needed. At WrestleWars you will experience Ragnarök: God of War in the flesh. You will realize that no battle is too grand for me. I've had over one thousand matches in my career, and it led me to our moment. Do you know what happens when you put a beast against the God of War? I own it and it will do as commanded. ENIGMA is just a name to me nothing more. You slap I'll do it harder. You bite I'll make you bleed. You want to push me around I'll put my hand around your throat and slam your ass into the mat straight into the abyss of hell. See you soon ENIGMA for you will soon be nothing but a memory.
He got up water dripping from his body looking out into the darkness again. The moon appeared once more to reveal a wicked smile. Ragnarök turned and walked away slowly fading into the darkness of night. It was going to be an epic battle of David vs Goliath but how the story turned out was anyone's guess. WrestleWars was shaping up to be epic on a whole new level.
OOC: Looking forward to ENIGMA work. Good luck to everyone at WW.