*Ash is in the backstage interview area with Jay Phillips*
Jay: I’m back here now with Ash. Ash, you’ve had several weeks to reflect on the Colors Tournament. What are your thoughts on it now?
Ash: Well Jay, obviously I’m disappointed by not winning the tournament and thus I won’t get my much deserved title shot next. It stinks, Jay. We started off strong with some big time wins by Marty Anderson and Abbadon, but after that things kind of fell apart. I’m not pointing fingers at anyone, but the turning point clearly was our first loss. It was just demoralizing to the rest of the team and it gave match control to Johnny Young. But, one person can’t be blamed because we win as a team and lose as a team and unfortunately, Mark Blood was on our team and lost. I suppose as team captain I bear a fraction of the burden for believing in him and also for overestimating his abilities--thinking he can get a victory over a seasoned veteran like Johnny Young. So, yes, I’m partially to blame, but I can’t wrestle *for* Mark, so we know that most of the load falls on his shoulders, which were flat to the mat for the 3 count, costing the team victory and glory. But, like I said, it was a team effort, and our team mate Mark lost if for us.
Jay: *furls his brow in puzzlement*
Ash: But I’m not here to harp on Mark Blood. He’s got his hands full right now picking fights with Polish people! I’m here for another reason. There’s a guy in our fed who’s made quite a splash and continues making all kinds of waves. And his name is Mikey Armstrong. I tell you what, I respect this kid. He came out of the woodwork and nobody gave him a chance. Not even you Jay, and you give everyone a chance! I hear a lot of people talking about him being an “upcoming superstar” or “having potential.” But what are these people waiting for? He’s here and he’s the real deal. I tell you what, I’m a fan!
Jay: Huh?
Ash: Yup, I’m a fan of Mikey Armstrong! Check it out, I bedazzled the back of my shirt!
*Ash turns around to show a poorly bedazzled “Miky” with a crude, round shape below the letters”
Jay: You spelled “Mikey” wrong.
Ash: Well, I didn’t have enough space because I cut off the sleeves, but it gets the point across.
Jay: Do you have a “Disco Stu” jacket, too?
Ash: *stone-faced* What are you implying?
Jay: Er.....what’s that underneath “Mikey?”
Ash: Oh! That’s....an arm flexing with a huge bicep. You know, it’s like a ‘strong arm.’ Ha ha! I thought it was clever. I’m getting great feedback on it!
Jay: Indeed. So, why are you challenging Mikey anyway?
Ash: Well, in my opinion, Mikey is the wrestling at another level right now. He’s on a hot streak. And as the saying goes, iron sharpens iron. So for me to improve, I need to wrestle someone who’s skill level is pretty close to mine. And not only is he undefeated in the NRWL, but he’s also battled back from cancer to win the Tour de France, founded Green Day, and walked on the moon!
Jay: Um...I don’t think all those people were him
Ash: Oh come on Jay! How many people can possibly have the last name “Armstrong?” But this is the match everyone wants to see! The undefeated streaker, Mikey! And the fans’ favorite NRWL wrestler, ME! It’ll be great! Mikey, you bring your A game, because “A” stands for “Ash!” And stands for all the “fAns!” Because you can’t spell “fans” without “Ash!”
Jay: There’s no “H” in “fans.”
Ash: It’s right after the “F” and it’s silent. But this isn’t about being silent! This about making some noise! And that’s what Mikey, myself, and all the fans are going to do this Friday night! Yeah!
*Ash walks off camera fist-pumping and hollering excitedly*
Jay: Words from a very animated Ash. Will Mikey respond?
