JC0003 - Third Time's The Charm

[Jackson Cole is standing inside of an empty ring, inside of an empty arena. He looks around as FWP staff are setting up for this week's episode of Scion as he takes on wrestling veteran, Slim. Jackson runs the ropes, working on in in-ring stamina. After a few minutes of getting the blood pumping, Jackson readies himself and leans over the top rope with both arms resting on it. He calls for the cameraman to push in closer.]

Jackson: 0 and 2. Two matches. Two losses. I knew it would be a challenge, but this hard? This much of a challenge? I guess with my back against the wall, the only way to move is forward.

[He nods and takes a deep breath.]

Jackson: They say that Father Time is undefeated. Slim, you are a veteran of the squared circle. You are a man not to be taken lightly. And you are someone that leaves it all inside of the ring, good or bad. I respect that. I respect you. Hell, I respect the hustle. The fact that you have a legacy of your own? I only wish I could one day earn something similar. I am just at the beginning of my career, and I had to risk everything to get to where I am today. I had to come across the entire United States, leave the only family I know and love behind, and start a brand new life here. Living out of a suitcase, it has not been easy. I am hungry, I am green, and I am determined. Those three things mixed up? That could mean I could explode anytime on the scene and show everyone exactly what I know about myself. Two weeks ago, I almost got injured badly. Luckily? I am good. I am healthy. And I have recovered. I am not going to allow that to hold me back. Nor am I going to allow my own fear of anything hold me back. They say that the third time is the charm, so here we are looking for my first win here in Florida.



Jackson: I am not here to tell you what to do, or what to feel. But Slim? Don't be one of those guys that never knows when to stay retired. I've seen far too many of my own idols have a retirement match and then three months later they are working yet another match. I get it... this business is like an addiction. It is undeniable the rush you get when your music hits. But do not taint your legacy. I hate when I see a local wrestling show inside of a VFW Hall where some way-past-his-prime wrestler is signing 4x6's for twenty bucks a pop and they are barely able to even walk down to the ring. Now I am not saying that is who you are, you are in great shape. But how much longer can you do this? No hate, Slim. Nah, fam. This is coming from a place of respect. I just want you to always be remembered for the accolades you've earned from over the years. Maybe this week you can teach me a thing or two? Maybe I can remind you just what it is like inside of the ring to "go". Just know, I won't make it easy for you.

[We are a few hours later in the day. Jackson is relaxing in his hotel room. He is scrolling his phone as it rings.]

Jackson: Hello? Yes, this is him. Uh huh. That is correct. California. Yeah, Florida now. Wait... he is East Coast? Okay. Yeah my bio mom. Dad? His? Okay. Mmhmm. I understand. Yes, please keep figuring out what you can. I want to... uh huh. I know. Trust me, I know. Yes. Thank you.