CHAPTER 4

Part One

Weeks had passed since the first day of Wrestlorama Academy, and progress was going well for Theo and Tito. The rigorous training sessions, the late-night strategizing, and their budding friendship had turned them into a cohesive duo. They were no longer just students of Wrestlorama; they were becoming fixtures within its walls. Each day was a grind, but they grew closer to their dream of becoming legends with every hurdle.

The cafeteria was buzzing with life, the chatter and clinking trays echoing throughout the vast hall. Theo sat at a table, eyes scanning the crowd. He had finished his morning workout and now sat with his tray of protein-packed food, waiting for Tito. It was their daily ritual—an opportunity to unwind, strategize, and share a few laughs. The academy cafeteria was massive, filled with students of every shape and size, each carrying the unmistakable air of future wrestling greatness.

Theo stabbed at his salad absentmindedly, glancing towards the entrance every few seconds. He was expecting Tito, but what caught his attention was Tito walking in with a swagger, his trademark grin in place—and he wasn't alone.

Following Tito was a younger kid with sandy blonde hair, eyes gleaming with excitement, and an air of electricity around him. His energy was palpable, as if he was itching for something—maybe a fight, maybe a new adventure. Tito approached the table, waving to Theo as he spoke loudly enough for half the cafeteria to hear.

“Hey, Theo! Meet the new blood, Steven Blitznowski!” Tito exclaimed, practically pushing the kid towards Theo.

Theo looked up, giving Steven a once-over, taking in his athletic build and the spark of determination in his eyes. “Steven, huh? You look ready to take on the world,” Theo said, a grin tugging at his lips.

Steven nodded, his enthusiasm barely contained. “You bet I am! I’m here to make a name for myself, and Tito said you’re the guy to know,” Steven replied, his voice filled with youthful energy. “The name’s Steven Blitznowski, but most people just call me Blitz. You can do the same.” He extended his hand towards Theo.

Theo shook his hand, already liking this kid’s attitude. There was something about that kind of relentless ambition that felt like a reflection of his own.

Tito pulled out a chair and sat down, leaning in conspiratorially. “Alright, fellas, listen up. I’ve got some news,” he said, his voice dropping as he scanned the cafeteria, making sure no one else was listening in. “Word on the street is that there’s some major shakeup happening in the Tag Team Division.”

Theo raised an eyebrow. “Oh yeah? What kind of shakeup?”

Tito grinned. “The former champs? They were seniors, and now they’re gone. They’ve graduated, which means those belts are up for grabs. The Tag Titles are vacant, boys!” He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in before continuing. “And I’m thinking we could make some noise. Theo, I know you’ve got it in you to take on any challenge, and Blitz here has the energy and fire we need.” Tito glanced at Steven, who looked like he might explode with excitement.

“A tag team, huh?” Theo mused, the wheels in his mind already turning. “You really think we’ve got a shot?”

“Not just a shot,” Tito said, his voice dropping to a whisper. “A real chance. We’ve been working hard, and we’ve got the chemistry. Blitz here—I’ve seen him in training. He’s got power and grit. You two together could be something special.”

Steven was practically bouncing in his seat. “I’m down for it! I’ve been itching for something big. You put me in that ring, and I’ll bring the thunder!”

Theo looked at Steven, then at Tito. He saw the fire in their eyes, that same fire that pushed him through the toughest of days. He could see Tito’s plan unfolding—they were going to take advantage of this opportunity. If they could put in the work, they might really have a chance to go after those Tag Titles.

Theo nodded slowly. “Alright, let’s do it. Let’s see what we can do as a team.”

Tito clapped his hands together, grinning from ear to ear. “That’s what I’m talking about! Alright, we start planning tonight. We’re gonna need a strategy that makes us stand out. And we’re gonna have to train—harder than ever.”

Steven let out an excited cheer, throwing his fist in the air. “Let’s go! Tag Team Blitz is about to take over!”

Theo laughed. “Easy there, Blitz. First, we’ve got to see if we even work as a team. Let’s hit the training room after lunch, see what we’ve got.”

Steven nodded eagerly. “You’ll see, Theo. We’re gonna make this happen. I’m ready for anything.”

Tito leaned back, a satisfied look on his face. This was the kind of energy they needed—the kind that could take them to the top. He knew that forming a successful tag team wasn’t just about individual talent—it was about chemistry, strategy, and a bond that went beyond the ring. And he believed that with Theo and Steven, they could build exactly that.

The rest of lunch was spent mapping out their training plans and brainstorming ideas for their team persona. Steven had ideas—big ideas—and Theo found himself getting swept up in the enthusiasm. They talked about matching outfits, signature double-team moves, and even entrance music. It was all starting to feel real.

Later that day, they headed to the academy’s training center. The facility was a sprawling, state-of-the-art building filled with everything a wrestler could need—multiple rings, training dummies, weights, and even a dedicated area for practicing aerial moves. It was the heart of Wrestlorama Academy, where champions were forged.

Theo and Steven stepped into the ring, Tito standing ringside, a critical eye on both of them. “Alright, let’s see what we’ve got here,” Tito called out. “Start with the basics—grapples, throws, and let’s work on your timing.”

Steven cracked his knuckles, his eyes lighting up. “Let’s do this!”

The two began circling each other, testing the waters. Theo moved first, lunging forward, attempting a grapple, but Steven was quicker than he looked. He twisted, countering with a swift takedown that caught Theo by surprise. Steven grinned as Theo hit the mat.

“Not bad, Blitz,” Theo muttered, rolling back to his feet. “But don’t get cocky.”

They continued, moving through drills, testing each other, feeling out their strengths and weaknesses. Steven was raw, but his power was undeniable. Every move he made had intent, force—a drive that pushed Theo to stay on his toes. There were moments of roughness—times where their movements didn’t quite sync—but there was potential, a spark of something that could be great with enough work.

After a while, Tito called for a break, tossing them both towels. “Alright, alright, I’ve seen enough for now. You guys have got the energy, and Blitz, you’ve definitely got power. We just need to work on bringing it all together—making it seamless.”

Steven was panting, but he was grinning. “I’m all in, whatever it takes. I want those Tag Titles.”

Theo nodded, catching his breath. “Yeah, me too. But it’s not just about power, Blitz. It’s about understanding each other’s moves—knowing what the other guy is going to do before he does it. That’s what’s gonna make us a real team.”

Tito clapped his hands. “Exactly! And that’s why we’re going to spend every spare second we have in here, working on it. By the time we’re done, you two are going to move like one unit.”

They spent the next hour practicing tandem moves—double suplexes, combined strikes, and their timing for tags. Tito coached them from the outside, calling out advice, offering critiques, and cheering when they nailed a particularly difficult move.

By the end of the session, they were exhausted, dripping with sweat, but there was a sense of accomplishment hanging in the air. They were far from perfect, but they were making progress. And progress was all they needed to start.

Theo looked over at Steven, who was sprawled out on the mat, breathing heavily but still wearing that trademark grin. “Not bad for a first day, Blitz,” Theo said, offering a hand to help him up.

Steven took it, pulling himself to his feet. “Not bad? Man, we’re gonna be unstoppable!”

Tito nodded. “That’s the spirit. But remember, this is just the beginning. We’ve got a long way to go before we’re ready to challenge for those titles. But I believe in you guys. We’ve got something special here.”

Theo felt the weight of Tito’s words. This was the start of something new—something that could change everything. He looked at Steven, then at Tito. They were in this together, and together, they were going to make their mark.

“Alright, enough talking,” Theo said, a determined smile crossing his face. “Let’s get to work.”

And with that, the three of them dove back into training, pushing themselves harder, faster, and stronger. They had a goal, and they weren’t going to stop until they reached it. The Tag Titles were waiting, and Theo, Tito, and Steven were ready to do whatever it took to seize their moment in the spotlight.

Part 2

The training facility at Wrestlorama Academy was alive with energy as Theo, Tito, and Steven gathered to take on their next big challenge. The facility buzzed with the sounds of students practicing their moves, weights clinking as they were lifted, and occasional shouts of excitement as someone nailed a new technique. It was a place of growth, determination, and pure wrestling spirit. Tito had called them here to train for their first official match as a tag team, with a plan to elevate both Theo and Steven's skills individually and as a cohesive unit.

They gathered in one of the training rings, its ropes tight and glistening under the overhead lights. Tito stood outside the ropes, clipboard in hand, eyes sharp and focused as he observed Theo and Steven warming up.

“Alright, fellas, listen up,” Tito said, clapping his hands to grab their attention. “Today’s training is all about getting you two in sync. We’re gonna figure out your style, strengthen your individual moves, and make sure you guys are glued together as a team.” He smirked, adding, “You’ll need to be if you want to make a statement in the tag division.”

Steven grinned, stretching out his shoulders. “I’m all about making statements, Tito. Let’s do this.” His eyes lit up with the same fire as when he first walked into Wrestlorama Academy—a young freshman hungry for recognition.

Theo nodded, the determination in his eyes undeniable. He had fought hard to get here, and now, this was the next step in his journey.

Tito began by running them through some individual drills. He had Steven working on his raw power, having him lift heavy sandbags and throw them across the ring, replicating the kind of strength he'd need for powerbombs, suplexes, and other slams. Steven was in his element, the sweat already starting to show as he powered through the drills, each toss more forceful than the last.

“Keep that intensity up, Steven!” Tito shouted from ringside. “You’re gonna need every bit of that strength when you're lifting opponents over your head.”

Steven responded with a determined grunt, picking up another sandbag and launching it across the ring. He was relentless, and Tito knew that with that kind of focus, Steven could be a real powerhouse.

Meanwhile, Theo worked on his agility. Tito set up cones, ropes, and other obstacles for Theo to navigate—leaping, dodging, and sprinting. Theo moved like lightning, his body twisting and contorting to avoid the obstacles, each motion fluid and powerful. He jumped through the air, his hands catching the top rope as he flipped over, landing lightly on his feet.

“That’s it, Theo,” Tito called out, a proud smile on his face. “Keep moving like that, and you’ll be an unstoppable force. Agility and precision—that’s what you bring to this team.”

Once Tito was satisfied with their individual drills, he brought them together for tag team training. This part of the session was all about building trust and synchronization. The key to a successful tag team wasn’t just strength or speed; it was about knowing your partner’s next move, anticipating it, and building upon it.

“Alright, you two,” Tito said, walking up to the ring apron. “Here’s the deal. You guys have the perfect combination of power and agility—Steven, you’re the powerhouse. You control the pace of the match, wear down the opponents, and set Theo up for the big finish. Theo, you’re the finisher. You bring the speed, the high-flying moves, and the impact that seals the deal.”

Theo and Steven nodded, their eyes locked on Tito as he spoke. It was clear that Tito had thought this through, and they trusted his judgment.

“The style that suits you both best is a Power & Agility Hybrid,” Tito continued. “Steven, you’re gonna be lifting opponents, slamming them down, making sure they don’t get back up. Theo, you’re gonna be the one to bring the high-impact follow-ups—strikes, aerials, whatever it takes to finish the job.”

Steven grinned, glancing over at Theo. “Sounds like a plan to me. You ready to fly, Theo?”

Theo chuckled, rolling his shoulders. “Always.”

Tito then had them work on some combination moves. They practiced their “Dynamic Drop”—Steven would lift a training dummy into a back body drop while Theo hit a diving strike from the top rope, adding extra impact. The first few times were a little shaky, but they quickly found their rhythm. Steven’s strength and Theo’s agility began to blend seamlessly, and soon enough, the “Dynamic Drop” looked like a finishing move worthy of the main event.

“Alright, that’s good,” Tito said, nodding in approval. “But now, let’s work on the big one. The team finisher—the one that’ll make the crowd go wild.” He pointed to Steven. “Steven, I want you to lift the opponent into a powerbomb position. You’re gonna hold them high, and Theo, you’re gonna use the ropes to springboard and drive both your knees into their chest and head.”

Steven’s eyes widened with excitement. “You mean like a powerbomb and Meteora combo?”

“Exactly,” Tito said with a grin. “We’re calling it ‘The Sky Drop.’ This move is all about impact, teamwork, and making sure your opponent doesn’t get back up.”

Theo and Steven exchanged glances, both of them grinning. They knew this was going to be something special.

They began practicing. Steven lifted the training dummy into the powerbomb position, his muscles straining as he held the dummy high above his head. Theo moved quickly, springing onto the ropes and using the tension to launch himself into the air. He twisted, his knees coming down hard on the dummy’s chest and head, adding his weight to the powerbomb as Steven slammed the dummy to the mat.

The ring shook with the impact, and Tito let out a cheer. “That’s it, boys! That’s what I’m talking about!”

They practiced “The Sky Drop” again and again, each time refining the timing, the movement, and the impact. Steven made sure to hold the dummy steady, his legs firmly planted as he prepared for maximum impact. Theo, meanwhile, focused on the precision of his jump—making sure he hit the dummy perfectly each time.

By the end of the drill, both Theo and Steven were breathing heavily, their bodies covered in sweat. But there was a fire in their eyes, a determination that hadn’t been there before. They knew they were onto something special, and they were ready to show the world what they could do.

Tito gathered them together, his voice lower now, almost conspiratorial. “Alright, guys, listen up. I’ve signed you both up for the next Breakout Battle.”

Theo and Steven’s heads snapped up, eyes widening in surprise.

“You did what?” Theo asked, a grin spreading across his face.

Tito nodded. “That’s right. I issued an open challenge for you two as a tag team. This is your chance to make a statement in the tag division—to show everyone here at Wrestlorama what you’re made of.”

Steven punched the air, his grin widening. “Hell yeah! I’m ready to show these guys what we can do!”

Theo looked at Tito, a mix of excitement and gratitude in his eyes. “You really think we’re ready for this?”

Tito smiled, clapping Theo on the shoulder. “I know you are. You two have the skills, the chemistry, and the heart. This is your time to shine.”

Theo nodded, the determination returning to his eyes. He looked over at Steven, who was practically bouncing with excitement. “Alright, Blitznowski. Let’s go make a name for ourselves.”

Steven grinned, holding out his fist. “Let’s do it, Vera.”

Theo bumped Steven’s fist with his own, the two of them sharing a moment of camaraderie. Tito watched them, a proud smile on his face. He knew they had a long road ahead of them, but he also knew they had what it took to succeed.

“Alright, that’s enough for today,” Tito said, grabbing his clipboard. “Rest up, because tomorrow, we’re going full throttle. We’ve got a Breakout Battle to prepare for.”

Theo and Steven nodded, both of them still grinning as they left the ring. They knew they had a lot of work to do, but they were ready for it. They were ready to take on whatever challenge Wrestlorama Academy threw their way.

As they left the training facility, the three friends walked side by side, their minds focused on the future. They had a plan, they had each other, and they had the determination to make their mark on the tag team division.

And come the next Breakout Battle, they were going to show everyone exactly what they were capable of.

Part 3

The day before the Breakout Battle, the energy in Theo’s home was electric. Grandma Moncha’s cozy living room was alive with the laughter and voices of Theo, Tito, and Steven as they excitedly discussed their upcoming tag team debut. It was a rare moment of peace before a storm of adrenaline, anticipation, and challenge that lay ahead the next day. The three sat huddled around a low table, their wrestling notes and scribbled strategies scattered everywhere, each contributing to the plan for their first Breakout Battle.

Theo looked up from his notes, his eyes sparkling with a mixture of nerves and excitement. “Okay, so remember, the key is synchronization. If we start separating or trying to fight our opponents individually, we’re done for. We have to think like a single unit.”

Steven nodded with a confident grin. “Exactly! We’ve got to use that power and agility hybrid stuff Tito’s been drilling into us. I’ll lift and crush, and you spring and smash. It’s gonna be epic, just like we practiced.” He flexed his arm, emphasizing his strength as he beamed at Tito. “And Tito, that Sky Drop finisher is gonna put on a show. Can you imagine the crowd when they see it?”

Tito smiled, looking at his two friends with pride. He had spent every spare moment they had, working tirelessly to ensure their moves were flawless, their timing perfect, and their chemistry unmatched. “I’m telling you guys, no one’s going to see it coming. A lifted powerbomb with Theo hitting that springboard Meteora? Forget about it—they’re done.”

Theo took a deep breath and looked around the living room, allowing the excitement to sink in. He couldn’t help but think back to his early days as Ricky Ramos, back when he and his little brother would pretend they were wrestling legends, using pillows as their makeshift ring. Who could have thought that today would find him here, standing at the brink of becoming an actual legend at Wrestlorama Academy? He felt the weight of everything he’d left behind, but here with his friends, everything felt right.

“You know, the Breakout Battle is our chance to really leave our mark,” Theo said, his voice quieter now, almost as if he was speaking to himself. “I just want us to go out there and give it everything. No holding back.”

“We’re not going to hold anything back,” Steven responded, his voice filled with fiery determination. “We’re going out there to crush whoever takes our open challenge. We’re gonna show Wrestlorama what we’re made of!”

Just as Steven finished his impassioned speech, the comforting sound of Grandma Moncha’s slippers on the hardwood floor filled the room. She approached the group carrying a tray with three large mugs, each filled with a thick, chocolate-colored shake that gave off a sweet, nutty aroma.

“Boys, enough planning and talking,” Grandma Moncha said, her voice full of warmth as she set the tray on the table, her eyes twinkling with pride. “Tomorrow is an important day, and you need the strength of a thousand lions! And nothing builds strength better than a dose of Grandma Moncha’s secret Puerto Rico Protein Shake.”

The boys’ eyes widened in unison, their attention completely shifted from their battle notes to the rich, enticing shakes before them.

“Secret protein shake?” Tito asked, curiosity lighting up his face.

Grandma Moncha gave a knowing smile, her eyes glancing at Theo with a twinkle. “Yes, mijo. This is the same shake I used to make for your grandpa before his wrestling matches. It’s made with love, and a few secret ingredients only abuelas know.” She tapped the side of her nose conspiratorially.

“Is that why Grandpa always looked like he could suplex a mountain?” Theo asked, chuckling as he took his mug in both hands, the warmth radiating through the ceramic.

“You’ll have to wait and see tomorrow,” Grandma Moncha said with a wink. “But let me tell you, this shake has been giving strength to our family for generations. Drink it, and tomorrow you’ll have the spirit of our ancestors with you in the ring.”

Steven looked down at his mug, his grin growing wider. “Alright, let’s do this!” He grabbed the handle and lifted it into the air. “To strength, to the Breakout Battle, and to us making history at Wrestlorama!”

“Salud!” Tito joined in, lifting his mug as well.

Theo smiled, warmth swelling in his chest. He raised his mug and clinked it against the others. “To us,” he echoed before taking a sip.

The shake was rich, smooth, with a deep, earthy sweetness that tasted like chocolate and honey, with a hint of something else—something comforting, like home. With every gulp, Theo could almost feel the strength pouring into him, warming him from the inside out. He finished the shake with a satisfied sigh, feeling a rush of determination.

“This is amazing, Grandma,” Theo said, his voice full of gratitude. “Thank you.”

“Anything for my champion,” Grandma Moncha replied, her eyes soft as she reached out to ruffle his hair. “And you two better take care of my Theo in that ring tomorrow, you hear?” She looked at Tito and Steven with a mixture of motherly love and playful sternness.

“You got it, Grandma,” Tito said, his face serious. “We’re gonna have each other’s backs.”

“For sure,” Steven agreed, nodding. “We’re a team now. Nobody’s laying a finger on Theo without getting a piece of me first.”

“Ay, that’s what I like to hear,” Grandma Moncha said, smiling as she picked up the empty tray. “Alright, now you boys get some rest. Tomorrow’s going to be a big day.”

She turned and left the living room, leaving the boys in a warm, comfortable silence. Theo leaned back against the couch, staring at the ceiling, his mind buzzing with thoughts of tomorrow’s battle. He could feel the strength from the shake, but more importantly, he could feel the strength from his friends and from Grandma Moncha. They weren’t just going into that ring as competitors—they were going in as a family.

The next morning, the sun peeked through the curtains, casting a golden glow across Theo’s room. The alarm clock buzzed, but Theo was already awake, staring at the ceiling, feeling the anticipation thrumming through his veins. Today was the day.

He got up, dressed in his Wrestlorama gear, and made his way to the kitchen, where Grandma Moncha had already prepared a hearty breakfast. Tito and Steven arrived soon after, both wearing matching expressions of excitement and determination.

“Ready, boys?” Grandma Moncha asked as she set plates of scrambled eggs, toast, and fried plantains in front of them.

“More than ready,” Steven said, practically bouncing on his chair. “We’re gonna show everyone what we’ve got.”

“That’s the spirit,” Grandma Moncha said, her smile widening as she watched the boys eat. “Now eat up. You need your energy.”

Theo ate in silence, his mind focused on the battle ahead. He could picture the ring, the roaring crowd, the adrenaline that would course through his veins as he and Steven faced whatever challengers stepped up to take their open challenge. It wasn’t just about winning—it was about proving themselves, about showing the academy that they were a force to be reckoned with.

After breakfast, they gathered their gear and made their way out the door, Grandma Moncha waving them off with a proud smile. “Go get ’em, boys!” she called out as they walked down the street.

The trio arrived at Wrestlorama Academy, the massive building looming before them, its glass doors reflecting the morning sunlight. The energy was palpable, with students milling about, talking excitedly about the upcoming Breakout Battle. Theo took a deep breath, feeling the excitement build within him.

“Alright, guys,” Tito said, his voice steady as he looked at Theo and Steven. “We’ve trained for this. We’ve got our game plan. Let’s make today count.”

Steven nodded, his eyes blazing with determination. “Let’s do this.”

Theo smiled, feeling a surge of confidence. He looked at his friends, his teammates, and knew that whatever happened today, they were ready. Together, they stepped through the academy doors, ready to take on whatever challenges awaited them in the Breakout Battle.

The journey had only just begun, but Theo knew one thing for sure—they were going to make their mark, and they were going to do it together.

Part 4

The sun shone brightly over the sprawling grounds of Wrestlorama Academy, casting a vibrant glow on the outside wrestling arena. The academy had come alive with the sound of excited chatter and the energy of students buzzing with anticipation. It was Breakout Battle day—a day where dreams would either rise or crumble, and new names would be carved into the annals of Wrestlorama history.

Theo, Tito, and Steven made their way to the academy’s outdoor arena, their steps confident and their spirits high. This was it: the moment they’d been working towards for weeks. The anticipation was palpable, each step drawing them closer to the roaring crowd gathered in the open air. Students filled the bleachers, their cheers and shouts echoing across the arena. Colorful banners adorned the perimeter, displaying team logos, wrestler names, and school pride.

Theo felt a mix of nerves and excitement. Today was their tag team debut, and he was ready to prove himself alongside his new partner, Steven. Tito walked ahead of them, his energy infectious as he waved to the crowd, the academy's vibrant colors reflecting off his ever-present grin.

Suddenly, the arena's atmosphere shifted as a familiar booming voice filled the air. The school’s student commentator, Brandon Steele, had grabbed the mic, his voice booming across the arena, amplified by speakers set around the ring.

“Welcome back, Wrestlorama warriors!” Brandon's voice echoed, his excitement as electric as the energy from the crowd. “We’ve got something special for all of you today. It’s time for a Breakout Battle you won't forget! And trust me, you’re not gonna want to miss this next tag team debut!”

Theo exchanged a glance with Steven, both of them nodding in sync. Tito leaned in, giving them each a fist bump before stepping back and letting them take the stage.

Brandon continued, “Introducing, for the very first time at Wrestlorama Academy, a duo that’s got both the power and the speed, the brains and the brawn—give it up for the newest tag team on the block, managed by the ever-scheming strategist Tito Caraballo... BRUTE AND BOLT!”

The students erupted into cheers as Theo and Steven made their entrance, striding confidently towards the ring. The music blared with a strong, rhythmic beat that matched their steps. Tito followed behind, playing the part of the hypeman to perfection. He pointed to the crowd, urging them to cheer louder. Theo wore a focused expression, eyes locked on the ring, while Steven played to the crowd, his smile broad as he slapped hands with a few excited students along the barricade.

As they reached ringside, Brandon kept the energy high, reading from their student cards with dramatic flair.

“Standing at five foot eleven, with the agility of a jungle cat and the strength to back it up—the Bolt of Brute and Bolt, Theo Vera!”

The crowd let out a loud cheer, and Theo stepped onto the apron, raising his arms and flexing briefly for the audience.

“And introducing his partner—coming in at five foot eight, this kid’s a powerhouse with a chip on his shoulder the size of Florida, it’s Steven Blitznowski, also known as Brute!”

Steven hopped up to the apron, flexing his biceps while grinning ear to ear. The crowd’s energy was infectious, and Steven fed off it, making a show of his strength before stepping into the ring.

Brandon’s voice continued, “Together, they are Brute and Bolt, ready to electrify the ring and make their mark! Let’s hear it for these rookies!”

The crowd’s cheers intensified as Tito clapped from outside the ring, nodding in approval at his two wrestlers. The air was alive with energy—this was their first chance to show the school what they were made of.

As the excitement began to settle, a different vibe rolled through the arena. Suddenly, loud, obnoxious music blasted over the speakers, causing the cheers to falter and turn into a mix of confusion and groans. Brandon’s voice came back on, sounding noticeably less enthused.

“And, uh... answering the open challenge, we’ve got... The Troublemakers. Give it up for Trev Hardigan and Brock Butson, everybody.”

Trev and Brock—the infamous troublemakers of Wrestlorama—made their way down the aisle with smug grins, waving lazily at the crowd. Trev sauntered ahead, his lanky frame moving in exaggerated, almost mocking strides. Brock followed, his bulky figure plodding along as he chuckled at some private joke, his laugh a deep, dopey rumble.

They weren’t here for the cheers. In fact, the louder the boos, the wider Trev's grin got. He held his arms out, basking in the disdain of the audience.

“You hear that, Brock? They love us!” Trev jeered, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

“Yeah, yeah, love us,” Brock echoed, giving a big, dumb grin as he slapped Trev’s back a little too hard, almost making his partner stumble.

Trev and Brock rolled into the ring, and Trev wasted no time, striding up to Theo and Steven, getting right in their faces.

“So these are the newbies, huh?” Trev smirked, looking Theo up and down. “You really think you can make a name off us? Nah, today’s gonna be your wake-up call, kiddos.”

Steven took a step forward, squaring up to Trev. “How about you shut up and let’s see who’s really gonna get schooled, huh?”

Brock lumbered over, stepping beside Trev and puffing out his chest. “We’re not just gonna beat you... we’re gonna embarrass you,” Brock said, his tone half-serious, half-trying to remember the exact words Trev had told him to say.

Tito, who had been standing ringside, hopped up onto the apron and motioned for Theo and Steven to step back. “Hey, hey, relax, guys. Let’s not waste our energy on talkin’. Let’s save it for the fight.”

Trev snickered, then turned towards Brandon, who was still at the announcer’s table. “Tell ya what, Steele—how about we make this even more interesting? A little tornado tag action!”

The crowd murmured in excitement. A tornado tag meant no tagging in and out—all four wrestlers in the ring at once. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exactly the kind of environment the Troublemakers thrived in.

Brandon raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “You heard that, folks. The Troublemakers are calling for a tornado tag match. What do you say, Brute and Bolt?”

Steven didn’t hesitate for a second. He stepped up, practically nose-to-nose with Trev. “You’re on. We’re gonna show you what real wrestling looks like.”

Theo nodded, his face calm but his eyes full of fire. “Bring it,” he said simply.

Brandon’s voice rang out over the arena, “It’s official, everyone! We’ve got ourselves a tornado tag match! The Troublemakers versus Brute and Bolt!”

The crowd roared, the excitement tangible as the two teams stared each other down in the center of the ring. Trev and Brock wore their usual mocking grins, but there was a flicker of something else there too—a realization that maybe, just maybe, they’d bitten off more than they could chew.

Theo and Steven exchanged a look, each of them nodding in silent agreement. They were ready. They’d trained for this. They had Tito in their corner, they had each other, and most importantly, they had the drive to prove they belonged.

As the commentator’s voice faded, Tito stepped back down to ringside, giving his team one last piece of advice. “Remember what we practiced. Stick to the plan, stay in sync, and watch each other’s backs. You’ve got this.”

Theo took a deep breath, the cheers of the crowd washing over him. He could feel the adrenaline building, the electricity in the air. He’d spent weeks preparing for this moment—training, pushing himself, facing his fears. And now, it was time to see if all that work would pay off.

Steven flexed his fingers, his face a mixture of determination and excitement. “Let’s show these guys what Brute and Bolt are all about.”

The referee signaled for the teams to get into their corners. Trev and Brock laughed amongst themselves, pointing at Theo and Steven like they were already planning their victory celebration. But Theo blocked out their antics, focusing instead on the energy flowing through his body—the anticipation, the excitement, the pure, raw determination to win.

The bell hadn’t rung yet, but to Theo, the match had already begun. This was it. No more talking, no more taunts. It was time to wrestle.

And Brute and Bolt were ready to bring the storm.