35. After The Show

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With the first round of the tournament complete, the FCW women's division had more than proven their worth. Each match had been a showcase of the talent, determination, and passion that the women brought to the ring. The crowd had been treated to a series of matches that not only entertained but also solidified the women's division as a vital part of FCW.

Backstage, Sandro watched the matches on a monitor alongside Dusty and Steve, a sense of pride swelling within him. The tournament was off to a strong start, and he couldn't help but feel a deep connection to the women who were competing.

He had been instrumental in pushing for the creation of the FCW Divas Championship, and seeing the women seize the opportunity and shine in the spotlight was incredibly rewarding.

The FCW Divas Championship Tournament was far from over, and there were still more matches to come. Nicole, Alicia, Natalya, and Maryse would advance to the next round, where the competition would only get fiercer. But Sandro knew that no matter who emerged as the inaugural champion, the real winners were the fans and the women who were finally getting the recognition they deserved.

After the conclusion of the match between Rosa Mendes and Maryse, the crowd in the FCW Arena began to settle down, expecting the show to end. The last bout had been a nail-biter, with Maryse's cunning tactics ultimately prevailing over Rosa's fiery determination.

As the referee raised Maryse's hand in victory, the audience clapped in appreciation of the effort both women had put into the match. Rosa, though defeated, had shown resilience and heart, and the crowd respected her for it.

Just as people were preparing to leave or switch off their televisions at home, the FCW theme music suddenly blared through the speakers, catching everyone off guard.

The crowd surprised but thrilled, erupted in cheers when Dusty Rhodes and Steve Keirn, the masterminds behind FCW, appeared at the top of the ramp. The two veteran wrestlers and respected figures in the industry strode confidently toward the ring, each holding a microphone, their faces beaming with enthusiasm.

Backstage, the reaction was equally electric. The wrestlers and the crew were all taken aback by this unexpected appearance while the production staff kept the show running.

However, a select few, including Sandro and his close friends—Kofi Kingston, Drew McIntyre, Stu Sanders, Sheamus, and Nick Nemeth—knew that something special was about to be announced. They exchanged knowing glances but kept their composure, eager to see how Dusty and Steve would reveal the news.

As Dusty and Steve entered the ring, they soaked in the crowd's energy, allowing the anticipation to build. Dusty, with his signature charisma, raised his microphone first. "Thank y'all for coming out tonight and for bringing that fire! This is what makes FCW the place to be!" The crowd responded with a deafening roar, their excitement palpable.

Steve then took the lead, his tone serious yet filled with anticipation. "We know tonight's been one hell of a show, and we couldn't be prouder of the talent we've seen. But Dusty and I have something special to share with y'all—something that's gonna shake things up around here."

The crowd buzzed with curiosity, and even backstage, the wrestlers and crew were on edge, eager to hear the announcement. Sandro and his friends kept their expressions neutral, though their minds raced with excitement.

Steve continued, "Starting next week, we're gonna kick off an eight-team tag tournament to determine the number one contenders for the FCW Tag Team Championship!"

The arena erupted in cheers, and backstage, the atmosphere was electric. The announcement was huge—a chance for any wrestlers wanting to prove himself in the tag team division in the locker room to step up, prove themselves, and earn a shot at the titles currently held by none other than The Empire, the dominant duo of Drew McIntyre and Stu Sanders.

Dusty chimed in, his voice booming through the arena. "That's right, folks! We've been watching closely, and we know we got the best damn tag teams right here in FCW! So, it's time to show the world what y'all are made of! And let me tell you—this ain't gonna be no ordinary tournament. Only the best of the best are gonna make it, so you better bring your A-game!"

The crowd was going wild, and the excitement was infectious. Sandro and his friends exchanged looks of feigned surprise, playing their part perfectly. For the crowd, next week's show had instantly become a must-see event, while for the wrestlers backstage, this was an opportunity that could define their careers.

Steve added, "The eight teams that'll be in this tournament will be decided based on what we see in the ring from last week until next Sunday before our next televised show. So if you want in, you gotta prove that you belong in that tournament!"

The stakes were high, and everyone knew it. The challenge had been laid down, and it was up to the wrestlers to step up and seize the opportunity. Sandro could feel the intensity of the moment. This was more than just a tournament—it was a chance to cement their legacy in FCW and for some a chance to build the foundation of their career.

Dusty and Steve thanked the crowd once more before wrapping up the show. The FCW theme song played again as they exited the ring, leaving the fans buzzing with excitement and speculation about which teams would qualify and who might emerge victorious.

Backstage, the energy was electric. Wrestlers were already talking about potential partners, strategizing, and mentally preparing for the upcoming week. The tournament was all anyone could think about, and the realization that the road to the tag team titles was now wide open sent a surge of adrenaline through everyone.

Dusty and Steve addressed the locker room briefly, urging everyone to pack up and head home to rest after the long day. They emphasized that with the tournament on the horizon, everyone needed to be at their best.

The atmosphere backstage was one of anticipation and excitement, but also of camaraderie. Despite the competitive nature of the tournament, there was a shared sense of purpose among the wrestlers.

Sandro, though exhausted from his match and the intense focus he'd placed on the FCW Divas Championship tournament, took a moment to congratulate Nicole on her victory.

She had fought hard, and Sandro could see the pride and determination in her eyes. Nicole appreciated the acknowledgment, and the two shared a brief but meaningful conversation about Nicole's match and the possibility of her becoming the inaugural DDivas champion.

Afterward, Sandro made his way to Brianna, who had lost her match earlier in the night to Alicia Fox. Brianna, though disappointed, appreciated Sandro's words of encouragement. "You gave it everything you had out there," Sandro said sincerely. "You're getting better every time, and that's what counts. This isn't the end for you, Brianna. It's just the beginning and you have shown a strong performance, I'm sure your chance will come soon."

Brianna nodded, her spirits lifted by Sandro's support. "Thanks, Sandro. I'll keep pushing. I won't let this setback stop me."

As the night wore on, the wrestlers gradually packed up their gear and made their way out of the arena. The excitement of the day's events lingered in the air, but there was also an underlying sense of calm as everyone was mentally prepared for the challenges ahead.

Sandro, feeling the weight of the day's events and the toll of his recent training, finally left the arena and headed home. The drive back to his apartment was quiet, giving him time to reflect on everything that had happened. The victories, the challenges, the friendships—it all swirled in his mind as he navigated the darkened streets.

The next few weeks would be crucial, not just for the tournament, but for Sandro's career as well. The tag team tournament was looming, and he knew that every match would be an opportunity to prove himself and Kofi as legitimate contenders. But for now, he was content to enjoy the moment, to savor the victories and the progress that had been made.

As Sandro left the arena that night, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. The challenges ahead didn't seem as daunting, and the future looked brighter than ever. He was part of something special, something that was bigger than just one person.

FCW was evolving, and Sandro was proud to be at the forefront of that evolution. The journey was far from over, but as he looked ahead, he couldn't help but feel excited for what was to come.

As he drove home that night, the lights of the city reflecting off his car window, Sandro allowed himself to smile. The road ahead was long, but it was a road he was eager to travel. With the support of his friends, the guidance of his mentors, and the passion he had for wrestling, Sandro knew that the best was yet to come.

When he finally arrived at his apartment, Sandro felt a deep sense of contentment mixed with exhaustion. He knew that the days ahead would be demanding, but he was ready. He had come this far, and there was no turning back now.

As he prepared for bed, Sandro couldn't help but replay the day's events in his mind. The thrill of victory in his match with Kofi, the pride he felt watching the women's division take center stage, and the excitement of the tag team tournament announcement—it was all part of the rollercoaster ride that was professional wrestling.

But more than anything, Sandro felt a deep sense of purpose. He wasn't just competing for himself, he was also part of something bigger—a movement within FCW to elevate the entire roster, push boundaries, and create moments that would be remembered for years to come.

The next morning, Sandro woke up feeling refreshed, though the physical aches and pains from his match reminded him of the toll this business took on the body. Still, he was undeterred. He knew that each ache and bruise was a badge of honor, a testament to his commitment to this sport and his desire to succeed.

After a quick breakfast, Sandro headed to the gym that was part of the apartment facility for a light workout. He wanted to stay sharp and maintain his momentum, even as he allowed his body to recover.

The gym was quiet, the perfect environment for Sandro to focus on his training. As he lifted weights and ran through drills, his mind was already strategizing for the upcoming tag team tournament.

The thought of competing in such a prestigious tournament excited him, but he knew it wouldn't be easy. Every team in FCW would be gunning for a spot, and the competition would be fierce. Sandro had already proven himself in singles competition, but tag team wrestling required a different kind of chemistry, a different kind of strategy.

He and Kofi had been working well together, and their recent victories had solidified their partnership. But Sandro knew they couldn't afford to rest on their laurels. They would need to bring their absolute best if they wanted to win the tournament and earn a shot at the tag team titles.

As Sandro finished his workout and wiped the sweat from his brow, he felt a renewed sense of determination. But Sandro wasn't just focused on the titles or the accolades. He was driven by something deeper—a desire to make an impact, elevate the entire FCW roster, and leave a lasting legacy in the world of professional wrestling.

As he left the gym and stepped out into the bright sunlight, Sandro couldn't help but smile watching the morning scenery of Tampa. As he watches the scenery, suddenly his phone rings, and when he takes out his phone he sees that it is Windham who calls him.

Sandro was surprised to see Windham calling him at this time. He immediately picked up and greeted Windham, who returned the greeting. Sandro asked why Windham called him at this time, wondering as he asked Windham shouldn't he be in class now. Windham explained that his lecturer was on sick leave, leaving him with a free study session. With nothing to do, Windham decided to call and talk about his younger brother Taylor.

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Name: Alessandro Zhang

Age: 18 (2008)

Birthplace: Orlando, Florida USA

Brand: FCW

Wrestling Style: Mixed Of All Style

Faction: None

Championship History: 0