Ryan Apollos/Johnny Cage/Crimson Skull [vs.] Baron Tompson [vs.] Griffin Hawkins

I had lost everything..

I Griffin Nicholas Hawkins, Insurgency Wrestling Superstar, Multi Time Champion and lead singer of Devilition...had indeed lost everything. Everything that I have accumulated in my life, everything I had earned, all the things that I had done to pull myself out of the hole I was in....was now all washed away in just a blink of an eye. I didn't even see it coming. There was no more family, no more friends...everything thats ever come to me in my life is gone.

..And it wasn't even my fault.

Just days after Thanksgiving, I was tried and convicted of armed robbery. This had to be some sort of mistake. But the tape showed a large man in a ski mask making it out of the bank with bags of Money and a Gun. I was never even there in the first place. I don't understand how this all happened. The whole Michaels family was there in support, hoping that I wouldn't be tried. But the judge slammed his gavel down as I was told the words that I will never forget.

"We find the defendant Griffin Nicholas Hawkins...guilty."

I hang my head low...so this is how the story of my life ends. I can see the sadness on Tiffani's face as the officers lead me away. Tears begin streaming down her face. I really hated putting her through this. The look on her face is something I will never forget for as long as I live. I look back at her, wishing I could break the handcuffs, run down and give her the biggest hug I can before I am locked away behind the cold prison bars.

I had indeed lost Tiffani.

This would be the longest I won't see Tiffani for a while. Sure, she'd visit every chance she gets via telephone behind a glass screen...but It would not be the same. I would never be able to go for long rides up and down the road with her, I would never again go shopping with her, I would never hold her if something ever made her upset and make her feel better the only way a big brother would. The worst part of all of this is I would never be able to be with the one person who had changed my life for the better.

....I lost everything....

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November 23rd, 2012, 11:00 AM
Los Angeles, California
California State Prison

Welcome to Hell...

So this would be my home for the next ten to fifteen years. So much for Pick Your Poison. For sure, Baron Tomson would have an easy time getting the briefcase now. While he's in the ring fighting for the right to be the number one contender, I would be stuck in jail. As I walked down the hallway escorted by one of the guards in my orange jumpsuit, I heard the hollers and whistles from the other prisoners.

"Oooh! Hey gorgeous!

"I'm gonna tie that hair up in a ponytail.."

"Come down to my cell anytime!"

I actually felt flattered that they think that much of me...I hope they realize I'm straight, otherwise its going to get awkward. I am led right into cell block A7. The place doesn't look too roomy. There's a bunk bed, barred windows, and even a toilet right on the side of the room. This was not in the brochure..I noticed on the bottom of the bunk there looked to be a tattooed prisoner with dirty looking hair and a beard. He reminded me of Danny Trejo Machete. The Latino prisoner looked to have many markings on his arms. I couldn't understand much of them, but one on his arm read "Only God can judge me". This looked like someone I didn't want to mess with.

Look..sir..you can do anything you want but..please don't kill or rape me..

He had a cold sneer on his face as he looked up at me.

Prisoner: I'm not into that ese...you wouldn't be my type anyway...

I felt relieved...and sort of insulted. Was I not pretty enough for him to have his way with?

Griffin Hawkins - Um..my name is..Griffin...Griffin Hawkins.

He kicks his feet up on his bed, just looking me over as if I was some sort of guinea pig. I could tell he had seen my type pass through the cracks of this prison.

Prisoner - Salvador Rodriguez. What you in for amigo?

Griffin Hawkins - Armed robbery..but I'm innocent...

A wheezy laugh escapes his mouth. He didn't believe a word I said..but at least I was able to make a person laugh...I just hope the other prisoners find me just as funny.

Salvador Rodriguez - I'm innocent too homes! I was thrown in here because my lying cheating bitch of a wife ran into the knife I was holding out..

Griffin Hawkins - Oh yeah...I hate it when that happens...

Salvador Rodriguez - You know something kid...I like you. You're amusing to me. But if you want to survive here, you have to have eyes in the back of your head. You know what I mean?

Griffin Hawkins - I've been looking over my shoulder for the last ten years...

Salvador Rodriguez - I'm sure you have, but if you're not careful...you'll be killed or worse...someones bitch.

Damn...neither sound good. I could have sworn I got the same warning before I joined IWF...

Griffin Hawkins - I'll be sure to keep my eyes and ears open...and my butthole closed.

He laughs some more, obviously amused in my choice of words.

Salvador Rodriguez - That's some smart thinking kid..you may survive here after all...

Hours later, a familiar part of whats to come in my next few years in this prison took place...lunch. It kind of felt like I was back in my days of high school...just sitting in the cafeteria alone. I had got whatever crap they put on my lunch tray and sat alone. Around me looked to be a lot of other prisoners who were talking amongst themselves in the lunch hall. Around us looked to be a lot of guards who stood ready, possibly waiting to break up any fight that takes place. I look down at my plate...this can't be Salisbury Steak...and the Macaroni looks like someone puked on it. I sat alone minding my own business when a short blonde haired inmate came over, jamming his two fingers in the macaroni.

Clyde Tombs - Hey..you gonna eat this?

I really didn't feel like messing around with this little punk..I was having a bad day already.

Griffin Hawkins - Not really..but you're welcome to stick whatever fingers you haven't into it..

I'm not in the mood for this guy, but he's really pushing it.

Clyde Tombs - So I hear you're "innocent"..that's really funny. Nobody is innocent here new guy.

Griffin Hawkins - Oh..that's a shame. I was hoping to form a social group..

Clyde Tombs - Real cute..but if you're going to lie and say you're innocent, you won't survive a day here in this place..especially against someone like me.

Griffin Hawkins - Look pal..I don't know who you are or why you're in here, but I suggest you shut the fuck up and leave right now before I really lose my temper..I'm having a bad day and I don't need you coming over here to start shit.

He just laughs a high pitched laugh, not really intimidated by me.

Clyde Tombs - Oooh I'm shaking in my boots. You think you scare me tough guy?

In one swift motion, he tosses my tray to the floor. Its enough to cause the other prisoners to take notice.

Clyde Tombs - I'm sorry, were you going to eat that?

I couldn't take it anymore. It was as if all this pent up frustration came boiling out. I clench my fist and send a punch right across the face. I then dive over the table and the both of us are fighting. The prisoners are cheering as the guards break us up. I'm dragged out of the cafeteria as the blonde haired prisoner smiles smugly at me as if he had planned this. There was something familiar about him.

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The next day I had a ray of sunshine visit me, it was Tiffani. She had come to visit me to see how I was doing. Just seeing her face made me forget about all my problems. I came over to her as she was sitting in front of the screen, holding the telephone. I picked it up, feeling the guard watching me.

Tiffani Michaels - Hey..how are you?

Griffin Hawkins - Prison...sucks.

Tiffani Michaels - Oh..right, stupid question.

Griffin Hawkins - This is possibly the worst place on earth. The guards hate me, the prisoners hate me, everyone hates me. I've been here for so long I forgot what the outside looks like.

Tiffani Michaels - Griff...you've only been here for one day...

She did have a point there...

[color=red]Griffin Hawkins -....That's how long its been? Oh God I'm gonna crack...

Tiffani Michaels - I do have some good news though..Daddy's lawyers are working around the clock, and they are confident that they can get you out of jail.

Griffin Hawkins - Really? When?

Tiffani Michaels - They aren't sure, but they can and will prove that you are innocent and you can come home again. It's so quiet at the house without you, everyone misses you..including me

I really missed her and her family as well. I wished I could walk out those doors with her right now.

Griffin Hawkins - Lets just keep our fingers crossed and hope that I'll be able to come home soon..

Tiffani Michaels - Please Griffin..stay safe for me..

Griffin Hawkins - I'll be okay..I promise.

I put my hand on the glass screen as if to touch her. She did the same, both of our hands touching through the screen.

Tiffani Michaels - ...Take care of yourself.

The guard told her it was time to go. She nodded and went towards the exit. She took one last hopeful look at me before departing. I hope that I do get out just to see her again.

Later that day, I was in my cell looking out the window at the sky above, wishing and hoping that I would be free somehow. Tiffani was counting on me to stay alive...I couldn't break my promise. Soon, Salvador comes back into his cell.

Salvador Rodriguez - Bad news ese...you've been challenged to a fight in the prison yard.

Griffin Hawkins - Oh that's just fucking peachy...was it that punk I encountered at lunch?

Salvador Rodriguez - Yeah..that's Clyde Tombs...he was put in for some arson charges..they say he's plum loco..but he has protection of the warden..

I knew his type sounded familiar, he reminded me of Baron Tomson. Only this dude was much uglier.

Griffin Hawkins - And the guards aren't going to do something about it?

Salvador Rodriguez - Nah man..he lets anything happen here. You're also facing one of two other guys, Hudson Midnight...a smooth cat. He has movie star good looks and a martial arts background. The other is Rufus Mac...a big time hustler who specializes in gold chains and gats. The meanest of all would have to be Brian Creed...he's been here quite a while and everyone's afraid of him. Nobody has ever beaten him at all. If you beat Tombs..you get your choice of one of the three men voted by the other prisoners.

Pick Your Poison...thats what it seemed like to me. Not only would I have to face any of the two at the Pay Per View...I had to do it here. Everything was falling into place..

Griffin Hawkins - Alright...I'm in..

Salvador Rodriguez - You got a lot of cajones Hawkins..but make sure this fight isn't your last.

I nod to him before leaving my cell, I make my way out of the prison and into the yard. Clyde was right there waiting in the center of the crowd of fellow inmates. Clyde smirked at me, a lighter in his hand.

Clyde Tombs - I'm gonna burn your ass bitch..

I glared right at him, picturing him as Baron Tomson and everything I wanted to do to him. I put my fists up in a fighting position and he did the same. He swung at me, I swayed out of the way, but I couldn't see his right hand connect with my stomach. I try again, but he trips me up and I fall hitting the dirt.

Clyde Tombs - Is that all you got pretty boy?

I couldn't let this prick get the best of me. I had never fought in a prison yard before..but I knew couldn't lose this one. He went for another punch, but I swept his leg. I go to stomp him but he rolls out of the way. Remembering my martial arts background, I put it to good use when Clyde went for another punch and I countered by throwing him to the ground by his arm.
He got up again and I hit him with a spin kick to the gut, a quick punch, and a roundhouse kick to the head, sending him down. It looks like I won this one. Worn out, I look towards the other three choices. One of them was black with chains and tattoos around his neck, the other had a dirty looking beard, and the last had shades and a sly smirk on his face.

Griffin Hawkins - Okay...who's next?

Before the choice could be made, I heard the warden shout at me.

Warden - Hawkins!...get in here.

I could hear a lot of disappointed grumbles amongst the others as I left the prison yard. I came into the office where the Warden was waiting. He looked to be a middle aged blonde haired man in a suit. He looked at me with a serious look on his face.

Warden - I'm afraid there's been a mix up Hawkins..you're a free man.

This guy had to be fucking with me...

Griffin Hawkins - I am?

Warden - Yes. It appears that the person involved in the robbery wasn't you. You were confused for another man who has evaded the cops for a long time. I apologize for the mix up.

The officers brought in the real culprit. He looked to be a tall bald black man with tattoos.

Griffin Hawkins - ...How could you confuse me for...that!?

Warden - Honest mistake Hawkins, it'll never happen again..

Griffin Hawkins - Right....well, goodbye.

After getting dressed in my normal clothes, I make my way towards the main gate. But I'm stopped by Salvador.

Salvador Rodriguez - Hawkins, wait up!

Griffin Hawkins - Sal...

Salvador Rodriguez - So..you're really leaving?

Griffin Hawkins - Yeah..I'm a free man.

Salvador Rodriguez - Damn shame Ese Vato..you got one hell of a punch. If you stayed here, you'd be running the joint.

Griffin Hawkins - Yeah I could..but my place isn't in here...its out there. I have a war of my own to fight.

Salvador Rodriguez - I guess you gotta do what you gotta do..I'll be seeing you around...Griffin.

I smile and shake his hand.

Griffin Hawkins - Seeya on the outside Salvador..

I nod at him before walking through the gate. Tiffani was by her car, smiling and waving at me. I run up and hug her, picking her up.

Tiffani Michaels - You're finally free..

Griffin Hawkins - Yeah...I can finally come home..

She smiled as we both got in the car and drove away. I didn't get the chance to pick my poison in prison...but I would definitely pick my poison at the Pay Per View...

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The cameras open back up in jail. The Warden owed me a favor for the mix up. So in exchange that I don't sue..he allowed me to use this cell as my promo for the Pay Per View. I decided to keep my prison uniform on. I sit on the bed with a pack of cigarettes in my hand and a lighter in the other. I light the cig in my mouth as I begin my promo.

"Many might say Insurgency is a prison itself. If you don't know the right people..you disappear. Having the backup of the man in charge is really important. Just ask the Empire. If not for the endorsement of one Corey Casey, they wouldn't be in the spot they are in now. I myself refused the temptation of power, money and greed. Alexander Remington did his deal with the devil and in time he saw that it wasn't worth it. I wasn't the only inmate that rebelled against the system..many did. But out of all of them, I seemed to be their biggest rival. And now this is their chance to eliminate me once and for all. This Triple Threat Match is important for The Empire. Holding that briefcase would guarantee them a chance to bring the World Title should Parker Wayde not be successful. But I really hate to disappoint them...for their dreams will go unfulfilled this Sunday..For me, its a Hawk's Nest Match. I've never been in one before..but what does an animal do when cornered? He lashes out. And two unlucky Superstars will take the plunge through the ring as I leave with the briefcase"

This war with the Empire has been brewing for months. There didn't seem to be any sign of it ending. At least I wouldn't be alone.

"Once again, I look across the ring at my rival..Baron Tomson, the Raging Inferno.
Here we are...you finally got me right where you want me Baron. This time..there will be no excuses for you if you don't come out with the victory. You couldn't beat me the first time..you couldn't beat me the second time..you couldn't beat me the third time..you couldn't beat me the fourth time..you've never beaten me your entire life. Though it seems that you always come up with excuses to why you never came through on a victory over me and then condemn me for it. But me..heh, I relish in it. Why? Simple, I'm an opportunist..just like you. But unlike you, I'm smarter about it. I access the situation and work it in my favor. I've accomplished everything in my career by seizing the moment. It doesn't matter if its in the ring, in the locker room, or the parking lot. Whenever I see a chance...I take it. There's no coincidence, there's no chance, anything that happens, I take advantage of it. If you need further proof Baron...go back in time to a few weeks ago, our flaming tables match. You could have finished me right when you had the chance. But your ego wouldn't allow it. You barked for Remington to hold me in place while you got the final shot..but I moved out of the way and you knocked him out. I took the advantage and Jackknife Powerbombed you right through the flaming table.."

That truly was a thing of beauty....

"You got outsmarted plain and simple Baron...well...its not really all that hard anyway. A 5th Grader could beat you in a insult contest for God's sake. But beating you mentally and beating you physically are two different things. You have a huge ass monkey on your back the size of Donkey Kong...all for the one reason that for all your bragging, you don't have one single victory over me. But I too have something bugging me as well. You see, while I hold more victories over you than anyone on the roster...I never beat you in a straight up match. You were right in your promo last week. I never pinned you, I never made you submit..yet I have a winning streak against you. So Sunday...I look to prove once and for all that I am better than you and that you don't measure up in any way. No excuses..no nothing."

I had to prove that I can beat him one on one. There was always some sort of controversy attached to it. I wanted to make sure this time he gets the message.

"You see Tomson, in Remington's absence, Corey Casey gave you the keys to the kingdom. But what do you have to show for it? Not a damn thing. I don't see no gold around your waist. I don't see any kind of accomplishments. What has the Empire done for you? Nothing. You've been a member for a month and you haven't done a damn thing. Ever since I got here, I've been racking up more wins than Ryback in a Jobber convention. Hell, I did the one thing you could never do, I beat Ethan Cage in the middle of that ring one two three. Now this Sunday, I'm going to get the win when it counts...The World Heavyweight Championship briefcase. You got your chance to wash away everything that has happened to you every time we step in the ring together. Beating me will get the monkey off your back."

I couldn't take Tomson lightly. I've beaten the guy many times..but I couldn't allow myself to become complacent.

"I make you angry..don't I Tommy? You can't take it that for the last few weeks I've been running around bragging that I got your number. It also kills you that everyone in the back thinks that you can't beat me, doesn't it? You know why they all say the words they say? It's because of the undisputed truth that I...am better than you. I know it, the people around the world knows it, you know it....hell, even Corey Casey knows it. More than anything...the truth really does hurt. And at Pick Your Poison...I'm going to give you a heavy dose of the truth when I pin your shoulders to the mat. And that will be the truth..the whole truth, and nothing but the truth."

I flick away the cigarette, continuing the promo.

"Course..I can't forget the other three who may be involved in this match. Ryan Apollos..Johnny Cage, and a relative unknown...Gambino."

Picking these three would be like picking an execution.

"I'll start with the Devil I know..Johnny Cage. Johnny..I really don't got a beef with you bro. You're a hell of an athlete and your track record speaks for itself. But I seem to remember when I first came to UECW..I brought another title to the company...and you said that'd be the only title I'd hold...funny how things work out huh? But hey, people can be wrong at any time..and I'm not deriding you for that. I'm just saying if it's you who gets in the Triple Threat Match, I look forward to facing you for the first time in my career. Movie Star...v.s Rock Star...two media icons from two different locations. I say Johnny..you're a man after my own heart. You're cocky, you're arrogant...but you can back it up. Hell its like looking into a mirror. But Johnny, friendship..is out the window when it comes to a match like this. And if I have anything to say about it...your movie career will end in a Fatality."

I respect Johnny for all he's accomplished and think he's a hell of a talent. But the stakes are high and I couldn't let him get the win in this match.

"And then we have the newcomer Gambino...a guy who came into the place and..apparently thinks he's Championship material by doing.....nothing. Here's how it is Gumby...whatever your name is. Talking about how great you are and proving it are two different things. So far you haven't proven a goddamn thing. But if you get voted in..you better be able to prove it. Thing is kid, I've beaten people like you all my career..and this badass gangsta act..as cliche as it is...is not fooling anyone into thinking you're worthy for a title shot.
Sunday..you better pray that you don't win the ballot, because if you do, your first big chance...will end up being your last."

This kid has said a lot of shit last week, I hope he's able to back it up.

"Which leaves us to a man who is probably hungrier than the two hopefuls in this ballot. Ryan Apollos. Now Ryan I know you're probably expecting me to take you lightly and claim that you got no chance in hell of winning if you get in. But I'm taking the high road and saying this...if its you and me left standing...then its going to be one hell of a match. On occasion you proved that you got the tools to make it here in this company. But not once have you ever faced me one on one in a match. I'll give you one thing, you did beat Alexander Remington..that is a huge feather in your cap. So far you've beaten just about anyone they put in front of you. A match between Hawkins and Apollos would indeed be a match for the ages. But will it happen? Guess we'll have to wait. Just know this Apollos...I take every match seriously..and if its you, I suggest you bring your A game. Because I'm looking to walk out with the contract that will guarantee me to be the next World Heavyweight Champion..."

I rest against the cold walls of the cell.

"Insurgency is a magnificent prison...but a prison no less. In a Hawk's Nest Match..we're going to put our bodies on the line all for the right to be called the number one contender. This match won't be Hawk's Nest....it'll be Hawkins Nest."

I sit back against the wall as the camera man pans out, moving out of the jail cell as he shuts the door, turning off all the cameras.

Thanksgiving
Los Angeles California
Michaels Home

Days before the whole jail fiasco, things seemed to be a lot more simple. On this day, I would be away from everything and surrounded by the people that I love and care about...the Michaels Family. Throughout the day I would be helping out with dinner..baking pies, stuffing the turkey, making Macaroni and others. Course Tiffani's sisters made sure that I didn't cook anything because that would just end up in disaster...can't say I blame them.

But I didn't care...

This was Thanksgiving, in a matter of time I would be sitting at the table with the people who took me in when I had no place to go. In time I became part of the family and helped someone out whenever they were in need. In turn, they helped me turn my life around and I was forever grateful to them. They truly did consider me part of the family. If it wasn't for them, I probably wouldn't even be here today.

But all wasn't really well in the Michaels home..

As I was checking the Turkey, in the kitchen walked a tall blonde haired girl with blue eyes. In my opinion she was the most beautiful girl in the world. It was none other than Taylor Michaels, Tiffani's older sister. Tiff always teased me that I had a crush on her in the early days and I brushed it off...but I had no idea how right she was. Only problem was, she was with Tyson Sexton, a good friend of mine. Plus she had a kid with him. I kind of felt like it was too late. I heard her voice as soon as I closed the stove.

Taylor Michaels - Wow, you must really be hungry..that's like the 5th time you checked on that Turkey..

I turned around and noticed her. She was just as beautiful as always. I give her a smile as I lean on the counter.

Griffin Hawkins - Well it is a good looking bird. I can't wait to sink my teeth into it.

She laughs as she gets the silverware out of the drawer and puts them on the counter.

Taylor Michaels - I get the feeling most of the Turkey will be gone by the time it comes over to you.

Griffin Hawkins - Come on, I'm not going to make a pig of myself..

Taylor Michaels - One year I went to get a piece and you nearly jabbed my hand with the fork..

Griffin Hawkins - It was a big piece...

She laughs and shakes her head.

Taylor Michaels - Case and point..

Griffin Hawkins - Actually...I'm just glad to be here. This is actually my first Thanksgiving under this roof in like...a long time.

Back then, the eldest sister Tara had kicked me out of the house, I was forced to miss a lot of holidays and spend them alone.

Taylor Michaels - Yeah, we're just glad to have you back. I'm sorry your sister Wendi couldn't make it.

Griffin Hawkins - It's okay, it's not your fault. She really wanted to come, but the doctors aren't sure about having her around sharp objects just yet. But as soon as she gets better I'll bring her to come see you guys.

Taylor Michaels - I look forward to seeing her again.

Griffin Hawkins - So uh...how are things between you and Tyson?

Dumb question...I just met the guy in the bar a few nights ago drunk off his ass thinking he was in over his head. But my main concern was Taylor.

Taylor Michaels - Oh just fine actually.

Griffin Hawkins - Really?

Taylor Michaels - Yeah, I mean sure he was flaky before..but days ago he completely turned around.

Griffin Hawkins - Wow thats...nice.

Either she was lying to me...or Tyson was lying to her. When I spoke to him he didn't seem like the good time charlie Taylor was making him out to be. He was..miserable.

Griffin Hawkins - So...he's changed?

Taylor Michaels - Yeah. At first he didn't seem to be here a lot...but I guess Fatherhood really changes someone.

Griffin Hawkins - Yeah...

To be honest, I really felt for her. Tyson sounded totally selfish when he ranted to me. He thought of no one but himself this whole time. If Taylor only saw the real Tyson.

Griffin Hawkins - Listen..um, Taylor, about Tyson..

Taylor Michaels - Yes?..

I wanted to tell her everything. What Tyson said, how he is acting like a complete douchebag by avoiding her all this time. But looking into those deep blue eyes..I couldn't tell her the truth. She had so much hope that Tyson would be the man for her to give her everything. I couldn't stand to see the look of disappointment on her face.

Griffin Hawkins -...He's an okay guy.

I really hated lying to her like that, but it was worth seeing the smile on her face.

Taylor Michaels - He really is..

Soon, Tiffani peeked her head through the kitchen.

Tiffani Michaels - Hey, is that Turkey ready or what?

Griffin Hawkins - Oh! Right..you guys go on ahead and I'll get it.

Both the sisters went into the dining room while I got my oven mitts on and pulled the Turkey out of the stove. I knew I had to tell Taylor the truth sooner or later..but for now I just wanted to have a nice Thanksgiving.

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November 25th, 2012, 7:00 PM
Manitoba Canada
MTS Centre


I was glad to be out of jail and back into the swing of things. Three people will be on the ballot to face me at Pick Your Poison. Only problem was...I didn't know who it was going to be. I had to prepare for three different guys. But the theme of the Pay Per View really made me wonder about something...Pick Your Poison. But what does it all mean? Do I have to pick a Poison?

This was going to be quite difficult.

As I went into the arena, I had a few CDs in a plastic bag. Good thing I went to Best Buy on the way here. If I had to get into the theme of this Pay Per View, I would have all the knowledge. I went right into my locker room and shut the door. I dumped my bag out onto the floor and the CD's came out. Usually my theme in music is hard rock and heavy metal...but this time its different.

This theme is poison.

That's right...poison. To understand this better, I had to get into the theme through music. Every song had to be a song about poison. I pull out a CD..Belle Biv, Devoe and slid it in. On it played their trademark hit. Poison. As soon as it began, I really started getting into it. The lyrics really spoke to me...

As good as this song was...it still wasn't helping me. I took it out of the radio and put it back in the case. I'll be sure to remember this if there's a girl who isn't right for me. Digging through the CDs, I put in Alice Cooper's greatest hits. Now this was a song that I could connect to....Poison...

Damn..this still wasn't working. I'm not feeling it at all. As much as I love me some Alice, he just wasn't doing it for me. So I decided to delve deeper into the Poison themed music and put in Beyonce and switched to Poison. And as it turned out...it really sucked. I skipped ahead a few tracks till I heard something else.

"All the Single Ladies...All the Single Ladies.."

Okay I admit...this one I enjoyed..guilty pleasure. Tiffani made me listen to it all the time in the car. I hate when she drives. But I found myself actually dancing to the song just a little. I then began dancing, mimicking Beyonce dance from Single Ladies right on the button. I admit..I actually liked it. Maybe I should incorporate this into my entrance. But I had no idea Melanie had been watching the entire time. She was trying hard to hold her laughter in. As I turned around to dance some more, I saw Melanie standing there. I quickly jumped back.

Griffin Hawkins - Mel! Knock!

All she could do is laugh. Not one of my finer moments.

Melanie Kessington - Sorry, I had no idea you were doing something embarrassing.

I roll my eyes and turn off the music.

Griffin Hawkins - I was just trying to get into the theme of the Pay Per View...Pick Your Poison.

Melanie Kessington - By dancing like Beyonce?...okay..

Griffin Hawkins - No..you don't get it. The theme of all these CD's are poison. And the Pay Per View is called Pick Your Poison. So I'm looking to follow what it says by picking mine.

She blinks, looking a bit confused.

Melanie Kessington - Uh..Griff, I think you got things a little bit confused here. The point of Pick Your Poison is..your fans pick the opponents and stipulations. Hence the name...Pick Your Poison..

Damn...I didn't even think of it like that before. It does make a lot of sense...but it wasn't truly wasted, I got to explore new styles in music.

Griffin Hawkins - Will I get to pick?

Melanie Kessington - Well..no. But you have the option to vote for whoever is going to join you in that Triple Threat Match. Every vote does count.

Griffin Hawkins - Damn..so many to vote for. I got Crimson Skull..Ryan Apollos..Johnny Cage..

Melanie Kessington - How about Johnny? You two are really good friends..

Griffin Hawkins - Yeah but Johnny has become a little bit...whats the word...complacent.

Melanie Kessington - How so?

Griffin Hawkins - Well..don't get me wrong. Johnny's a cool guy. But lately he's been having an easy time. He's beating low level jobbers like Jack Savage who's been everyone's whipping boy the last few months..and then John Tolly who's been on a long losing streak since he got here. If he doesn't take this seriously he'll blow his one and only chance.

Melanie Kessington - I see..and Ryan Apollos?

Griffin Hawkins - I think out of all the guys...he's the one who may just want it more than anyone. He's been on quite a tear lately. I've been interested in testing my skills against him since I walked through the doors of Insurgency. He ain't no slouch..so if its me and him, I better bring my A game.

Melanie Kessington - I guess that leaves Crimson Skull.

Griffin Hawkins - ..Ooh, Scary dude.

Melanie Kessington - Thats all you have to say....Scary dude?

Griffin Hawkins - Thats..just about it..I thought I was facing that Gambino guy...dunno what happened to him...but whatever.

Melanie Kessington - So..what are you going to do?..

I scratch my chin...how was I going to do this?

Griffin Hawkins - I..think I got something planned..

I had just the idea.....

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Hours later, Cameras open up in a different part of the arena, the cafeteria. Normally I'd be dressed in normal clothes, but I was looking quite different for a change. I was dressed in a white lab coat with the sleeves ripped out with a Poison T-Shirt underneath and had my hair in a ponytail. The goggles rested on my eyes as I looked to be mixing all sorts of liquids in test tubes and beakers.

"Poison...an interesting thing isn't it? Some use it to kill rodents...some use it to kill themselves. And some probably use it to kill other people they..particularly like. But have any of the victims ever picked their Poison? I mean there's Algicide, Avicide, Biocide, Fungicide, Bactericide...a lot of cides, I don't discriminate. Which is why I've been in this part of the arena mixing all these types of poison. Because a lot of them are effective in many..many ways. All of the opponents involved in this Hawk's nest match in more ways than one...is poisonous. Even the ones who haven't been voted in yet."

I mix a blue liquid with a green one. Honestly I don't know what the hell this stuff is, but it turns a lot of pretty colors.

"One poison who's...murder on the ears...is Baron Tomson. I mean in the last few months we've been hearing all about how big and bad he is, how crazy he is...yadda yadda yadda...he's been doing a lot of talking..wouldn't you all say so? But seriously Baron, with all the talking, all the bragging...what have you really done? Oh that's right, you're Corey Casey's boy, A guy who can't even wipe his ass without his permission. Really bro..if you're so big and badass...why are you taking orders from Casey? I mean someone like you should be a lone wolf...right? Yet you have to share the glory with guys who couldn't lace your boots on your worst day. It's a real damn shame..

Just as I mixed a red liquid into a blue one, it exploded in a puff of smoke right in my face. I should've paid attention in chemistry.

..I thought that would make purple...anyways Tomson..you've done a lot of talking, tooting your own horn..and carrying the flag of The Empire. But now that myself and Alexander Remington have reunited along with Tiffani Michaels by our side..The Empire is in for a war that they are not going to win. And it all starts with you. One by one..The Empire will fall. Now, I've never been in a Hawk's Nest Match..but if it gives me the chance to beat the living shit out of you...hell, I'll go through with it. Pick Your Poison will go down as your 5th defeat at my hands."

I knew that I had his number...but I never got a clear cut victory over him.

"The next poison..is Johnny Cage...his type of poison is poison to the ego. Viricide would be a good poison for him..but it would only eat up his body on the outside. It wouldn't do a thing for his ego. But Johnny, you do have the right to have an ego. I mean look at how much you've accomplished man, World Champion, Movie Star, you're recognized all across the world.
But I just don't want it to go to your head. If you allow yourself to get too cocky, it may cost you. I'm not one to be taken lightly..just ask Ethan Cage. By the way...any chance you two are related?..I never figured that out..anyways..you know I respect you man, and if you get voted in to face me...I say lets give the people of Insurgency the match of a life time."

I mix the purple liquid with green and...nothing happens. It seems to be mixing quite well.

"You see Johnny...as long as you and me have been in companies together, not once have we ever crossed paths...not even once. Many IWF fans will have the dream match of the century as two of the top young Superstars on the roster will leave it all in the ring...but only if...you get voted in. And not to mention only one of you can get voted in the match to be part of the Triple Threat Match. I know how much you'd want t be Champion once again and be on top of the heap...but you'll have to go through me. And I'm not going to let anyone stand in between me...and my destiny.."

Me and Johnny may have been friends..but friendship is out the window when the Title is concerned.

"Crimson Skull...don't know you, you're a pretty impressive specimen. But I think you may have things a little bit confused here. You see, you believe in Darkness and exiling superstars who don't follow your path. You act as if you are an invincible monster. But like you...you're human. Every poison has an antidote. I am the cure for whats ailing you big man.
You can talk all that good shit about how Insurgency needs to be purged of the rotten and corrupt, but I am one demon that you can't exorcise from this company. I've been in the ring with men bigger than you and they said all the same things that you have said in the past few weeks. So pray to whatever God you worship that you don't get voted in, because Skull..I'm gonna get Gothic on your ass."

I wasn't afraid of the darkness..and I wasn't afraid of this guy.

And then there's the man who in a lot of words is a Fungicide...Ryan Apollos. You are in more ways than one..a Fungus. Just when someone think they can get rid of you..you always come back..and you're always in their face. But the last time we saw you, you were bursting into Isabella's office demanding that you be handed a shot should Parker be unsuccessful in his bid to become Champion. You seem to expect to be handed a title shot just because of your status here in IWF. Instead of earning it..you'd rather have someone gift wrap it for you.."

I mix the purple liquid with blue...turning it black. It almost looks like a soda. Wonder if it tastes like one.

"You claimed before that you were the only man on the roster who deserves a title shot. To me that's a slap in the face to every Superstar in that locker room. Just because you came up short in beating Stygian...what makes you think you're worthy? But as fate would have it, you could be voted into this match and you could be facing myself and Baron Tomson in a Hawk's Nest Match. If you want to prove that you're worthy enough to become Champion, then do it by going through me..and going through Tomson. Tomson I know you can handle, you've beaten him before. But you've never beaten me. We've never met at all in our illustrious careers. Can you really prove you're everything you say you are?"

He indeed had a lot to prove, not just to me, but to the Insurgency fans of Canada.

"Me..I know what its like to be on the international stage. I've been Champion in many promotions and I've main evented arenas all over the world. I've seen a million faces and I've rocked them all. You see, just like you, I want to be known as the greatest of all time and I don't care who I have to go through to get that accolade. You and me one on one would be one hell of a match for the IWF fans..but that will have to wait for a later date. For now...keep your fingers crossed that you do manage to make it into the Triple Threat Match. Because a match such as this would be..."

I mix the now black liquid into the test tube filled with green liquid and it causes an explosion of chemicals, dousing me in green liquid. I look like the Incredible Hulk.

"...Poison..."

I did not pan this out so well..but I did get my point across. The scene ends as the camera man turns off his camera.