7. 2 Year's Later

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He also thanked Windham for the opportunity he gave him to meet with his father and grandfather, Windham said it was not a problem and that it was what he should do as a friend. On the flight back home, Sandro reflected on the incredible day. His dreams felt more attainable than ever, after knowing that his insight and vision were accepted by two wrestling legends. Even though he knew that not all would share his vision, at least two wrestlers he looked up to shared it and gave him confidence.

After meeting with IRS and Blackjack Mulligan, Sandro returned to his routine of intense training, business discussions with his father, and university classes with full seriousness.

Two years flew by, and by 2008, Sandro had achieved remarkable success in the wrestling community. He had won multiple state championships and even a national championship, which led UCF to name a locker room in his honor.

During this period, the investments Sandro had persuaded his father to make began to bear fruit. The internet's rapid growth surprised the world, and YouTube and Facebook became household names. Jack's early investments in these platforms paid off handsomely, solidifying the family's financial standing even further.

Sandro also kept a keen eye on the financial markets, particularly on the instability that would happen in the near future surrounding the Lehman Brothers which would lead to the financial crisis that affected the whole world.

He feared the impending monetary collapse that would happen and warned his father, his father's investment specialist, and the stockbrokers to be cautious and maybe begin to do some stock dumping.

Though the investment team initially dismissed Sandro's warnings, Jack trusted his son's instincts and instructed them to begin a strategic stock dumping to safeguard their assets.

Despite the skepticism from the investment team, they followed Jack's orders, keeping a close watch on the market and investigating Lehman Brothers' internal affairs. Their prudence would be proved to be wise in the future when the financial crisis began to unfold, validating Sandro's foresight.

Meanwhile, as Jack and Sandro do all of this, Sandro's graduation day arrives. He was set to receive bachelor's degrees in both Business and Law, a testament to his hard work over the past years.

The graduation ceremony was a grand affair, with students, faculty, and families gathered to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class.

Sandro stood tall in his cap and gown, feeling a mix of pride and anticipation for the future. His parents, Jack and Taylor, were in the audience, beaming with pride. They had supported him every step of the way, and their unwavering belief in his abilities had been a cornerstone of his success.

As Sandro walked across the stage to receive his diplomas when his name was called, the crowd erupted in applause. He was a shining example of dedication and excellence, not just in academics but also in wrestling with the achievements he has gained for UCF.

The Dean of UCF personally congratulated him and gave Sandro both of his degrees, acknowledging his outstanding contributions to the university.

After the ceremony, there was a reception where Sandro mingled with his fellow graduates, professors, and his parents.

The atmosphere was filled with joy and excitement for the future. Sandro's achievements were celebrated by all, and he took the time to thank his mentors and friends he made who had supported him.

Jack and Taylor used this chance to express their immense pride in Sandro's achievements. Taylor, in particular, became emotional as she marveled at how quickly her baby boy had grown up. Sandro hugged her gently, whispering reassuring words to calm her down. Jack joined in, patting Sandro on the back and wrapping an arm around Taylor's shoulders, helping to ease her emotions.

Amidst this heartfelt family moment, Sandro's UCF Wrestling Coach approached them. He extended his hand to Sandro, a proud smile on his face. "Congratulations, Sandro. You've been one of the best students I've had the pleasure of coaching here at UCF."

Sandro shook his coach's hand warmly. "Thank you, Coach. Your guidance has been invaluable to me."

Jack and Taylor, having regained their composure, also thanked the coach for his kind words. They knew how instrumental he had been in shaping Sandro's wrestling career.

After exchanging pleasantries for a few minutes, the coach's expression turned slightly more serious. "Sandro, there's another reason I wanted to speak with you today. It's not just about congratulating you. I've been in touch with the national wrestling team for the Olympics, and they've taken a keen interest in you. They've asked me to represent them in offering you a spot on the team."

Sandro's eyes widened in surprise, never expecting such an offer because he knew that there were much better people than him in the Wrestling Community. "The Olympic team? Are you serious, Coach?"

The coach nodded. "Absolutely. They were impressed by your performance at the national championships and your consistent achievements over the past few years. They believe you have the potential to bring home a medal for our country."

Jack's eyes lit up with pride, and he turned to Sandro, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Sandro, this is an incredible opportunity. You could bring honor to our country and it's much better than becoming a wrestler with much less injury chances of happening."

Taylor, still teary-eyed, smiled through her emotions. "What your father had just said is right, Sandro. You have a chance to achieve something much transfer than becoming a wrestler, not because we don't support you but because the prospect is much better."

Sandro was silent as he heard what his coach, father, and mother had just said. Due to experiencing two lifetimes, he didn't feel particularly attached to such things as nationality anymore.

Especially since he had met with God, concepts like loving one's country or national pride never really resonated with him. For Sandro, wrestling was just a stepping stone, a way to gain experience and build a resume that would catch the attention of WWE recruiters. His true passion lay in professional wrestling, not in representing the USA at the Olympics.

Seeing Sandro's silence, Jack and Taylor grew worried. They feared their words might have had a significant impact on him, and they wanted to reassure him. But before they could speak, Sandro broke the silence.

"Coach, while I am very honored by the offer, I must respectfully decline. I have had a dream since I was a kid, and wrestling has always been a means to an end for me. My goal has always been to join the WWE and make a name for myself there." Sandro said with his face full of seriousness that his Coavh had never seen before on Sandro's face.

The coach was stunned by Sandro's words, never expecting such a response. He had always believed that Sandro aspired to become an Olympian. His expectations were shattered, and he didn't quite know how to react for a while.

Jack and Taylor, equally surprised by Sandro's decision, smiled apologetically at the coach. "We're sorry for Sandro's blunt words," Taylor said gently. "As his parents, we support him in whatever path he chooses."

Jack nodded. "It's unexpected, but we always trust his judgment to do what he thinks best for him, so sorry for that coach."

The coach let out a rueful smile, understanding the situation. "I understand, Sandro. It's important to follow your heart. I'll inform the National Olympic Team Association of your decision. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors." With that, he said his goodbyes and left.

As the coach walked away, Sandro turned to his parents. "I hope I didn't disappoint you. I just need to follow my own path."

Jack clapped Sandro on the back, smiling proudly. "You could never disappoint us, kid. We're proud of you for knowing what you want and having the courage to pursue it."

Taylor nodded, wiping away a stray tear. "We believe in you, Sandro. We'll support you no matter what. Now let's enjoy the graduation party."

With Taylor's words, the three of them enjoyed the party and returned home late at night. After showering and changing his clothes, Sandro lay down on his bed, thinking about what he should do next.

That's when he remembered FCW, which had become a developmental brand for WWE just last year. He had forgotten about it completely due to how busy his life had become, balancing university, investment discussions with his father, and enhancing his reputation in the Florida wrestling community.

Determined to take the next step toward his dream, Sandro got up from his bed and headed to his study where there was a computer. He turned it on and, using Google, began searching for information about FCW.

The FCW website popped up, and when he clicked on it, information about the organization appeared on his screen. He read about how FCW had signed with WWE in 2007 to become its developmental brand. As he scrolled through the list of bookers and producers, he was pleased to see Dusty Rhodes' name.

This familiar name brought him a sense of comfort amidst the many changes he had encountered on this alternate earth.

Turning off his computer, Sandro thought about the personal friendship IRS had with Dusty Rhodes. He hoped that this connection could be his ticket to gaining a tryout and interview with Dusty to join FCW, or at least enter its training program.

The next morning, Sandro woke up early, filled with a renewed sense of purpose. He knew that if he wanted to pursue his dream, he needed to act quickly. He decided to call Windham, knowing that his friend's connections in the wrestling world could be invaluable. He picked up the phone and dialed Windham's number.

"Hey, Windham. It's Sandro, sorry for calling you this early," he greeted.

"Sandro! It's not a problem man, How are you doing? And by the way congrats on your graduation!" Windham's cheerful voice came through the line.

"I'm good, and thank you, man. Listen, I need a favor," Sandro began, explaining his interest in FCW and he hoped that he could help him ask his father's friendship with Dusty Rhodes to connect him with Dusty Rhodes.

Windham listened attentively. "I can definitely help with that. Let me make a few calls to my dad and see what I can do. Give me a day or two."

"Thanks, Windham. I really appreciate it, man." Sandro said, feeling a surge of gratitude.

After hanging up, Sandro decided to make the most of his day by training. He headed to the gym, pushing himself harder than ever. He knew that to impress Dusty Rhodes and the FCW team, he had to be in peak physical condition.

As he worked out, thoughts of training as a wrestler also came to his mind. So he decided to cut short his gym time, and search for a speed course wrestler training but never found one, so he could only wait for Windham's phone call.

Two days later, Sandro received a call from Windham. "Sandro, I've got some good news. I spoke with my dad, and he's willing to connect you with Dusty. But he wanted to see firsthand if you got what it takes before connecting you with Dusty and he would like to meet you next week if you can."

Sandro's heart raced with excitement. "That's great! Of course, I can meet him, I have a lot of free time on my hands right now. Thank you so much, Windham. This means a lot to me, I will repay this favor when you return during the summer."

"No problem, Sandro. You've got the talent and the drive. Just show my father what you're made of, and FCW will be just around the corner!" Windham encouraged.

Over the next week, Sandro doubled down on his training. He worked on his wrestling techniques, Aikido training, Taekwondo training, his endurance, and his mental focus. He wanted to be ready for anything that IRS might throw at him. He also spent time preparing a portfolio that showcased his wrestling achievements, and when the day arrived he had a flight toward Brooksville to meet with IRS.

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Name: Alessandro Zhang

Age: 18 (2008)

Birthplace: Orlando, Florida USA

Brand: None

Wrestling Style: None

Faction: None

Championship History: 0