Post by Max Sheppard on Nov 1, 2022 15:11:07 GMT -5
For the week of November 1, 2022
Hello! And thank you so much for clicking on the grand return of the Ryland Report! This is a very special edition, as not only is it the comeback version of the article, but we’re also celebrating the anniversary of PWSi opening its doors…can you believe it? Thirteen years ago today! As always, I’m your…auther, Jake Ryland. I had to take some time away from the company to deal with some personal health issues, but I’m back and better than ever baby! I guess you could consider this the start of season two of the Ryland Report, as I’m looking to do things just a bit different this time around.
As you know, PWS: APEX runs shows every other Tuesday. My goal is to have a new Ryland Report every Tuesday where there isn’t a show. So, every off-week. As before, this is going to be an article where I recap on the last show, look forward to the next one, all while giving my personal thoughts and opinions. However, something different I’m looking to do this go around is introducing sit down interviews with various talents around PWS: APEX. This first week, in honor of the PWSi anniversary, I have TWO very special guests in separate interviews. The first is one of the men who were responsible for PWSi, and the current President of PWS: APEX, Max Sheppard! The other is all of our favorite boss lady, the Co-Founder and COO of PWS: APEX, and a woman who ran things at PWSi for around three years, Star Stormz! Some great interviews coming your way, but we’ll get to that a little later. First, let’s talk RIOT!
Holy cow! What a show we had this past week! Sooooooo much happened. I dare say it was our most action-packed Riot to date. Let’s see, where to begin? Well, I guess the opening segment, where we saw the triumphant return of Star Stormz to Riot. She got such a great reaction from the live crowd in Athens. You could tell it really meant a lot to her, and then the speech she gave? So heartfelt. It’s too bad it all had to get ruined by David Shane coming out. But, business had to be taken care of. So, he comes out, and after some back and forth, they announce a HUGE match for our upcoming Crusade pay-per-view. A 5-on-5 one of a kind match in which there are two rings, all enclosed in a hell in a cell. They gave it the aptly name of Armageddon, and to be quite honest, I think that fits perfectly.
After that was taken care of, we heard from Star and Josiah Cena, as they made some more huge announcements. After that absolutely horrifically brutal match at Dishonored between Devon Ryder and Dylan Howell, instead of doing anything like co-champions, they are introducing the PWS: APEX PURE Championship, and making Devon Ryder the first champion, while rewarding Dylan Howell with sole retention of the PWS: APEX Collateral Damage Championship. We are expecting formal presentations on the next Riot, and I can’t wait to see where things go from here. I, personally, am very excited for the PURE championship, and to see what matches we have for it. Love him or hate him, I think Ryder is a great first champ for that title, as he is all about the art of wrestling.
In othr title news, we found out two more challengers who will be fighting for titles at Crusade, as we found out Mike Hawk will be getting a one-on-one shot at Cleo Phillips’ World Title in a 60-Minute Ironman Match, reminiscent of the original Crusade main event, being the Champion’s League Finale. It was also revealed that Max Delgado will challenge for the United Championship against champion Jennifer Makarios-Lopez in a Ladder Match. This one should be amazing. Jenn went through hell to win the title, but Max has also been on a tear, minus this week of course, but that’s another story.
Let’s see, what else happened? Oh, so much. We saw the return of Corey Bull, as he’s taken a….well, an interesting infatuation with Alexis Makarios. I’m not sure I want to see wherfe this is going to go, but I don’t think we have a choice. We also saw the return of…whatever that was. It gave me the heeby jeebys, whatever it was with Jesse Russow. I have my theories, but I honestly don’t want them to be true. In any case, I fear things are about to get very dark and very violent. There was something else…an ominous vague message. An image of a flaming skull appeared on the screen, with the message “Something’s coming. Can you feel it? For you have now been warned. Hell is coming.”
I can only imagine what, or who, this is for. I mean, who could it be? Could it be a new superstar coming to PWS: APEX? Or could it be a massive return? The phrase “Hell is coming” is leading me to speculate. What if it’s another PWS legend? Someone like Tony Angel, or Omen, or even The Rev? What if it’s the return of the Lucifer Effect? That one makes a lot of sense, but I don’t think anyone has heard or seen any of the members of that group in years. As it stands, Tony Angel and The Rev fell off the face of the earth back when PWSi closed. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see what comes of this.
We also had four matches on Riot. Jesse Russow took care of Dawn Warren in rather quick work, as did Alexandra Calaway with Richard Rider. We had a tag match, where Max Delgado and Carmen Rodriguez put up a good fight, but came up just short to Alexander Lyons and Dionysus of ANTITHESIS, with Dionysus pinning Carmen. Our main event saw Gracie Lopez facing Volet Amelia Holt. It was a hard-hitting, violet affair that eventually saw Gracie Lopez get the win, but that wasn’t the real story.
After the match, David Shane came out to basically belittle Gracie, before sicking the members of ANTITHESIS on her. He paid off a load of security guards to stand halfway up the ramp, so when the attack started, all the people that tried to come make the save were all stopped. That was, until Levi Russow came out. He used his brother Dan as a jumping point, jumping on his back and over everything. He even got a shot on David before getting in the ring. He was like a house on fire, but eventually the numbers game caught up to him. It was then we learned that the three members of ANTITHESIS are going to be on Team David at Crusade. So that pits them against Gracie and Levi so far. But, with David making the proclamation that anyone who stands with Star will be banned from challenging or holding titles…I can only imagine if she’ll be able to get the help she needs.
That worries me, honestly. I’ll be blunt about it, I want Team Star to win at Crusade. My reasoning being it was Max Sheppard who gave me a chance with PWSi, and it was Star that decided to keep me around and make me the voice of PWSi. They gave me my first big break, and I am forever grateful to them for that. I’ve seen the way David Shane treats JR Freeman, and it is absolutely horrendous. There is absolutely no need or reasoning for it. There’s no place in this business for crap like that. For years, the rule has been you can say or do whatever to your opponents, but the commentators are off limits. We are NOT professional wrestlers, so if you’re bullying us or getting in our face? Just shows how much of a coward you are. I’ve never liked David Shane. I thought he was a self-centered, egotistical punk back in the day. But, I didn’t let it affect my professional calling of his matches. Now…well, let’s just say it’s probably a good thing I’m no longer a commentator.
Looking forward to the next Riot, we’re going back to Amsterdam! A week removed from the PWSi Anniversary. We have a match that is sure to be a barnburner for the main event, when Max Delgado takes on Alexander Lyons. The two had a vicious encounter in last week’s tag match, so it will be interesting to see how violent this one gets.
We’re also going to see the in-ring return of Shawn Young, as he’s taking on Morgan Baker. Slaps McKills is going against the Squid-Man…..poor squid. Jonathan Sanders is going one-on-one with Alexandra Calaway, and Carmen Rodriguez is facing Aaliyah Landerson. Couple that with all the fall out from this past week and it’s sure to be a hell of a show!
Max Sheppard Interview
For this interview, my comments will be colored in white, with Max’s comments being in yellow. With that being said, let’s get started.
I want to thank you for joining me for this return of the Ryland Report, and the first sit-down interview. I know this is a special time for you, as this is planned to go out on the 13 year anniversary of PWSi opening it’s doors.
It’s my pleasure to be here, and yes. You are correct, this is a special time for me. It seems just like yesterday Chris and I were getting ready for the launch of PWSi. But, at the same time, it seems like a lifetime ago. I remember there was so much excitement for the new journey, and quite a bit of hype for our worldwide endeavor.
You mentioned Chris, being Chris Wylde. Have you spoken to him any over the years since PWSi?
We kept in touch to start with after PWSi closed. But, after a couple years, he pretty much fell off the face of the earth, and I haven’t spoken to him since. Which, it really sucks. He and I had so many good conversations and time together. I really do miss him.
Yes, but at least you do have a familiar face from PWSi with you here, in Star Stormz.
Haha, yeah. Star is great. I honestly don’t think this place would be running if it wasn’t for her. She’s done so much for this company, she doesn’t get near enough the credit she deserves. When I was brought back in, one of the reasons I said yes was because I got to work with her again. If anyone else had been in charge, I’m not so sure I would have agreed to come back.
Well, let’s talk about your comeback. You’ve been back for a few months now. How are you finding everything?
It’s definitely been a learning experience. As they say, the more things change, the more they stay the same. I see so many new faces that I’m having to learn how to interact with them, and then I see the old familiar faces from PWS. I do like that we are kind of a hybrid of the old guard and new blood. It’s been a real treat to watch things progress over the weeks and months. I can honestly say that I think we are hitting on all cylinders right now. Gearing up for Crusade, which I think will be the biggest iteration we’ve ever seen.
Speaking of Crusade, the big Armageddon Match that was announced last week. Team Star versus Team David. We also saw the first three members be named for Team David, as Jonathan Sanders, Dionysus, and Alexander Lyons of ANTITHESIS joined the team after their attack on Gracie Lopez, who is a member of Team Star.
Yeah…that was atrocious. But, per typical for David Shane. He always does what’s going to make HIM look good, to hell with how it makes everyone else look. And yeah, he’s got ANTITHESIS on his side, but I’m confident Star will put a team together that can stand toe-to-toe with them.
Well, speaking of Team Star, right now it’s only Levi Russow and Gracie Lopez. And David made the proclamation that if any active roster member joins Team Star, they cannot challenge or hold any PWS titles. I mean…can he do that??
Unfortunately, it seems so. We checked with the board of directors, and since it doesn’t directly effect anyone’s job, they are allowing him to do it. I’ll admit, it puts us in a tough position, but I think Star has enough support from all around that she’ll get the five person team she needs, and it’ll be a damn good one.
So, safe to say you are standing with Team Star? I know there was some question as to your loyalty when Star and Laura were suspended and you were kept on board.
I was doing everything I could to find out what was going on. I knew something wasn’t right, but I also couldn’t be the one to snoop around. We needed someone on the inside to have an idea of what David was really trying to do, so I had to keep my cover. That’s why I tipped Levi off to it all, and let him dig into it. When he was ready to go public with everything, I made sure there were….reassurances in place that David wouldn’t run when confronted with the truth.
You’re speaking of Nick Madison?
Yes. People may forget, but David screwed over Nick’s wife. When he suspended Laura, that royally pissed Nick off. Nick and David have never gotten along, and that was just…just the final straw. I secretly think Nick was really hoping for David to do something stupid like take a swing at him, pretty sure Levi was hoping for the same.
Do you think David Shane should be removed from any role of power in the company?
I don’t just think so, that’s what I’m pushing for from the board. After this match, I want David Shane gone from any sense of power in the company. Just so we don’t have to deal with this again. Also, once this story is finished, I am really hoping to take a backseat on the shows. Management is not meant to be the biggest story going on, but here we are. We are meant to be in the background, making things happen without really being seen. Hopefully, after Crusade, I can go back to that.
Switching gears a bit, we’ve talked about there being a new crop of PWS superstars in the company. Are there any that you’ve been overly-impressed with? Any we should keep our eyes on?
Cleo Phillips and Mike Hawk jump out at first, which they should as they’ve done well for themselves. Another name I have to mention is Devon Ryder. You might not like his antics, but you can’t argue with his results. Same goes with Jonathan Sanders. And, though we haven’t seen her in a while, Heather Haze. Tyson Sykes is another one, but haven’t heard from him in a bit. Also, I have to mention Max Delgado. I think he’s part of the future of PWS.
A little biased speak from the father there?
I try not to be, as Max would hate me even more if I were. He’s been on a tear recently, and I honestly am looking forward to seeing what he can do with Jenn at Crusade. He has this chip on his shoulder, and a determination, a hunger, that can’t be denied. He’s one breakout performance away from shining in the bright lights, so we’ll see if that performance comes at Crusade.
I’d like to thank Max for taking the time to speak with me, and look forward to seeing where things go on the road to Crusade!
Star Stormz Interview
For the purposes of this interview, my comments will be in white, with Star’s comments being in hot pink
First of all, welcome to the Ryland Report, and happy PWSi Day!
Thank you! PWSi was home for so many for so long, it legit broke my heart when I had to step back. But for the health of myself and my child… I had no other choice. It's funny to think how long ago that was, and to see so many old favorites still doing this crazy thing… It makes my heart happy!
Oh yeah, I can imagine. How is Melody doing these days?
Sassy as hell! She just turned 8 in July and OH BOY she is like a mini me in so many ways. She's so ahead of the curve and she has already talked about wanting to follow in mommy's footsteps. A scary thought at times, I assure you.
Haha. I can only imagine. At least you have some time before having to worry about that.
Thank God! But not long enough.
So, you’ve had an…eventful couple of months where we saw you wrongfully suspended, only to be brought back at Dishonored. I guess my next question is how does it feel to be back?
Indescribable. I can't tell you just how crazy I felt the entire time. I spent so much time and money fighting back… thank God for Max and Levi, or I wouldn't be sitting here with you today. Just being able to walk into the arena and stand in front of the fans and feel that energy… hear them chant my name… it just makes every second spent finding my way back soon worth it.
It really was a magical moment this past week. You could really tell how appreciated you are by the PWS fans. It’s really a shame that David Shane, for whatever reason, doesn’t see that. He used to be a fan favorite, what do you think changed?
Jealousy can be an ugly ugly thing. It's really sad, too, seeing how much things have changed the last few years. I can honestly say he hasn't been the same since people tried to "cancel" him back when he supported his friend Alexis Makarios in her bid for World Champion. It's sad, really, because the main people suffering are the fans. I wish I knew what was going through his mind but… he has snapped.
Well, we have heard from Max Sheppard, and how he’s pushing for David to be removed from any sense of power after Crusade. What are you looking for to happen after the match?
As much as I want revenge and payback… I'm not sure it needs to go THAT far. Maybe some new rules and limitations on all members of staff? At this point, I'll just be happy to know that my job is secure. Maybe he just needs a vacation? Some time away to reflect? Hell, maybe he needs some intense therapy with Dr Fisher?
Haha, I think I know a few that could use that. I wanted to switch gears a tad, and talk about Max Sheppard. As you know, I sat down with him earlier, and he had some extremely high praise for you. I have to say it’s good to see the two of you on the same page it seems.
Well, you don't work as close with someone for so long without building a trust between you. I gotta say, he had me convinced when he didn't stand up to David on my behalf… but it all made sense in the end. The thing about Max… he's a good guy with good intentions and a good heart. Can he be a hard ass? When needed, yes. But that's what makes a good staff member. Someone who cares but stands their ground. That's why he and I work together so well. We are two sides of the same coin. And that's the kind of leadership PWS:APEX needs right now.
We saw on Riot there’s one wrestler who might not be as big a fan of Max. Which is odd, considering it is his own son, Max Delgado. Do you have any idea what happened between them to cause their relationship to be so…estranged?
Honestly? No. And even if I did, it's not my story to tell. I remember little Max when he was a kid, and he has changed so much since then. To the point I didn't recognize him at first. I'm sure they will work through whatever issues they have. But in the meantime, they have to co-exist.
We’re almost out of time, so let’s get to the good stuff. Crusade, and quite possibly the biggest Crusade we’ve had since maybe the first one? How is the team building going? Are you looking to announce any more team members this week on Riot?
The team building is … well it's been a little rough. I have Levi and Gracie who have stood up by me. And we all saw what happened last week. I can't ask anyone to put themselves at risk for me. Risk their lives or their careers. The guilt alone would eat me up. But, on a different note, there are many in the back who agree with me and side with me, but are unable to take the spot on my team for whatever reason. And I respect that and i would never bribe, guilt trip, or threaten anyone to do so. I do, however, have a few tricks up my sleeve. But for that, you'll have to tune in next week. Spoilers…
I think that’s a great way to sign things off here. I want to thank you Star for taking part in this special edition of the Ryland Report. Do you have anything else to say to the readers at home as we close?
Just to sit tight,I promise things will return to normal as soon as possible. And thank you for your love and support. If it wasn't for you fans, PWS wouldn't be a thing.
So, so true. Again, I’d like to thank Max Sheppard and Star Stormz for joining me here today. Things are definitely rocking in PWS: APEX, and you really can’t afford to miss a minute of the action. Be sure to tune in next Tuesday, as RIOT comes to you from Amsterdam, Netherlands! We’re on the road to Barcelona, and Crusade! I’m Jake Ryland, and I’ll see ya next time!
