Chapter 167: 158. Live Voting For Stipulation
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The three of them enjoyed their breakfast, the earlier teasing replaced by lighthearted conversation. Nicole recounted some of the antics from the night before, and April shared her thoughts on the upcoming pay-per-view. As they finished their meal, Sandro leaned back in his chair, looking at the two women who had become such an important part of his life.
"You know," he said, breaking the comfortable silence, "I really don't know where I'd be without you two."
Nicole smirked, reaching out to ruffle his hair. "Well, lucky for you, you'll never have to find out."
April smiled softly, her eyes meeting Sandro's. "We're a team, remember? No matter what, we've got your back."
After enjoying breakfast, Sandro excused himself to take a shower, leaving Nicole and April to handle the dishes. Despite their occasional teasing, the two women worked efficiently, rinsing and washing while chatting about the events of the previous night. Once the dishes were done, they migrated to the living room, turning on the TV to browse for something entertaining.
Nicole settled onto the couch, flipping through channels with a practiced laziness. "You'd think with tons of channels at our disposal, there'd be something good on to watch."
April rolled her eyes playfully and grabbed the remote from Nicole. "You're just bad at choosing. Let me try."
Nicole laughed, throwing a pillow at April. "Fine, but if you pick some boring documentary show, I'm reclaiming control of the remote."
Meanwhile, Sandro stepped out of the bathroom, his damp hair tousled and his frame dressed in fresh clothes. He heard the familiar sound of Nicole and April bickering over the remote and couldn't help but chuckle.
"You two fighting over the TV again?" he teased as he walked into the living room.
Nicole turned toward him with a grin. "We're not fighting. We're having a healthy debate about entertainment options."
April smirked, patting the spot on the couch beside her. "Get over here, Mr. Number One Contender. You can be the tie-breaker for the two of us."
Sandro plopped down between them, letting out a content sigh. "How about we just find something light? We've had enough excitement for now."
The three of them eventually settled on a comedy series, their laughter filling the room as they spent the next couple of hours simply enjoying each other's company.
Later that day, Sandro decided to hit the gym to keep his body in peak condition. Both Nicole and April accompanied him, though Nicole made it clear she was there more for moral support than actual exercise as she wanted to be lazy. April, on the other hand, joined Sandro for a light workout, the two of them exchanging banter and encouragement.
As the days passed, Sandro's focus shifted toward helping Windham officially begin his wrestling training. Windham, who had been trained informally by his father and grandfather, was eager to improve under Sandro's guidance. Taylor and Kofi decided to join the sessions as well, eager to support their brother and friend while also stay active.
Sandro quickly noticed that while Windham possessed a strong foundation, his moves were a bit rusty. His in-ring work lacked the finesse required to stand out, though his creative mind and natural charisma were undeniable.
Recognizing this, Sandro devised a training regimen focused on improving Windham's flexibility and execution, ensuring he could perform moves more fluidly which will help his in ring work in the future.
"You're good at storytelling, Windham," Sandro said one day after practice, wiping sweat from his brow. "But we need to get your body to match your mind. The more fluid your moves, the easier it'll be to sell a story in the ring."
Windham nodded, taking the feedback to heart. "I appreciate that, man. I've always felt like my creativity was my strongest suit, but I know I need to back it up with my in-ring performance."
During one of their training breaks, Windham brought up the question of his persona. "I've been thinking about what kind of character I want to portray. Something different, something people will remember."
Sandro, recalling Windham's incredible run as Bray Wyatt in his past life, leaned forward, his eyes lighting up with an idea. "What if you became a charismatic cult leader? Someone unhinged yet magnetic, someone who draws people in with their words and actions. You could create your own following, your own family you lead and do things you wanted."
Windham's interest was immediately piqued. "A cult leader? That's... intriguing. I like it. But what about the members of this cult? It can't just be me as it wouldn't be a cult."
Sandro smiled, the memory of Luke Harper and Erick Rowan flashing in his mind. "We can find the right people for that later. For now, focus on building the character. Think about his motivations, his beliefs, and how he speaks. Make him someone people can't look away from and create a lasting impression when you debuted that persona."
Taylor, who had been listening intently, chimed in. "That's actually a really unique idea. It'd definitely make you stand out here in FCW. People love a good character, especially one that's unpredictable."
Kofi nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it's different from what anyone else is doing here. Plus, you've got the charisma to pull it off. I can already see the promos."
Windham's creative gears were turning. "I like it. A lot. I'll start working on it tonight. Thanks, Sandro."
Sandro gave Windham an encouraging pat on the shoulder, proud to see him embracing the concept. The training session continued with renewed energy, as Windham began incorporating elements of his developing character into his movements. Sandro watched closely, offering tips and adjustments as needed, while Taylor and Kofi provided additional support and camaraderie.
As the days passed, Sandro split his time between his training, helping Windham refine his persona, and spending time with Nicole and April. The dynamic with his girlfriends was growing stronger each day, their bond deepened by mutual support and understanding.
The new week began with Sandro walking into the FCW headquarters. The familiar energy of the place always invigorated him. Inside the meeting room, Dusty, Steve, and Joe were already seated, reviewing tonight's plans. Sandro joined them, shaking hands with everyone before taking his seat.
Dusty leaned back in his chair, a wide grin on his face. "Alright, boys, here's the deal for tonight. We're doing a live fan vote to determine the stipulation for your match at the end of the month."
Sandro's eyebrows lifted slightly in surprise, but he quickly nodded. Beside him, Joe looked equally intrigued.
Steve jumped in, his voice steady and professional. "We'll give the fans some options for the stipulation. The results will come in live during tonight's show, and as soon as we have them, you two will cut impromptu promos to hype the match. It's all about keeping the audience engaged and invested."
Joe turned to Sandro, a glint of competitive determination in his eyes. "Whatever the fans pick, we'll make it work."
Sandro smirked, matching Joe's intensity. "Absolutely. Bring it on."
Dusty chuckled, clapping his hands together. "That's the spirit I wanna see! You two are gonna tear it up, I have no doubt. Just remember, when that result comes in, you've gotta sell it like it's the best damn stipulation in the world. Build that anticipation."
The meeting continued with a discussion of the finer details, including how the voting would be presented and where the segment would fall in the show. By the time they wrapped up, Sandro felt confident about the plan.
As they left the meeting room, Joe nudged Sandro with a grin. "Hope you've been practicing your promo skills. You'll need 'em tonight."
Sandro chuckled. "Don't worry about me, Joe. You just focus on keeping up." The two shared a laugh, their rivalry respectful but fierce.
The arena was buzzing with excitement as the live show kicked off. Sandro could feel the energy even from backstage, where he stood with Nicole and April. Both women had come to support him, their presence calming yet motivating.
"Ready for tonight?" Nicole asked, a playful smirk on her face.
Sandro adjusted his wrist tape, his expression focused but relaxed. "Always."
April placed a hand on his arm, her voice soft but firm. "You've got this. Just be yourself out there, and the fans will eat it up."
Sandro smiled, grateful for their support. "Thanks, you two. I'll see you after the show."
The FCW arena was alive with energy as match after match delivered excitement, and promos kept the fans glued to their seats. The night had been a spectacle of athleticism and drama, but as the show neared its end, the crowd began to murmur. Some fans wondered if they'd get to see Sandro and Joe tonight at all, given their absence so far.
But just as the energy in the arena threatened to dip, the familiar sound of Dusty Rhodes' entrance music hit the speakers, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The cheers echoed off the walls as Dusty emerged, microphone in hand, his signature charisma lighting up the arena.
Dusty soaked in the crowd's reaction, his grin as wide as ever. He waved his free hand, motioning for the fans to settle down.
"Alright, alright, y'all," Dusty began, his booming voice carrying over the noise. "Now I know you've been waiting all night for this, and I'm here to deliver! It's time for you, the fans, to decide the stipulation for the FCW Florida Heavyweight Championship match at the pay-per-view!"
The announcement ignited a fresh wave of cheers, and Dusty gestured toward the screen above the ramp.
"We're gonna do this live, baby! Head on over to the FCW Official Forum right now and cast your vote. The power is in your hands!"
The options for the stipulation flashed onto the screen:
1. Steel Cage Match
2. No Holds Barred Match
3. Two Out of Three Falls Match
The fans erupted into discussions, many pulling out their phones to participate. Dusty grinned, pacing the stage as he kept the energy high for the fans.
"Now, while y'all are voting, let me tell ya something," Dusty continued. "This match ain't just any match. It's two of the best damn competitors we've got, Sandro and Joe, fighting for the richest prize in FCW. And lemme tell ya, they're gonna give you a show you'll never forget!" The crowd roared, fully invested in the moment.
Sandro and Joe watched the scene unfold from the monitor backstage. Nicole and April stood nearby, offering quiet encouragement to Sandro.
"Looks like it's almost time," Nicole said, her eyes flicking between Sandro and the screen.
April nodded, a small smile on her lips. "You ready?"
Sandro smirked, rolling his shoulders to loosen up. "Born ready."
Joe glanced over at him, his expression half-challenging, half-amused. "Let's see if you can back that up out there."
Sandro laughed lightly, the tension between them more competitive than hostile. "You just worry about keeping up with me, Joe." The two shared a knowing look before heading toward the entrance area, ready to face the crowd.
Back in the arena, Dusty was handed an envelope by a production assistant. He held it up dramatically, teasing the reveal as the fans chanted eagerly.
"Alright, folks, the votes are in! The stipulation for Sandro versus Joe at the pay-per-view will be…" Dusty paused, the tension palpable.
"No Holds Barred!"
The announcement sent the crowd into a frenzy, cheers echoing through the arena. Dusty smiled, nodding approvingly. "And now," Dusty continued, "let's bring out the two men who are gonna make this match unforgettable! Ladies and gentlemen, give it up for Joe and Sandro!"
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Name: Alessandro Zhang
Age: 19 (2009)
Birthplace: Orlando, Florida USA
Brand: FCW
Wrestling Style: Mixed Of All Style
Faction: Dragon Boom (Tag Team)
Championship History: 1x FCW Tag Team Champions