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[The Headliner]

Following the success of "Lights! Camera! Traction! - The Illy Mustafa Saga", Headline Pro Wrestling has once again dug into its archives to present a must-have DVD set. "The Duxens" delivers a comprehensive history of one of wrestling's most notorious families, throughout both the regional and global eras of HPW. From the debut of Old Man Duxen, through the dissenting career of his son Jimmy Duxen, right up to their dramatic reunion, these former champions are covered in detail on this multimedia DVD and Blu-ray release.

Disc 1:
1) Introducing the World's Oldest Rookie
2) When I'm Sixty-Four (January 2006)
3) Conclusion of #1 Contenders Gauntlet match (January 2006)
4) Introducing Jimmy
5) The Bad Aftertaste (January 2006)
6) Old Man Duxen vs Gaz Dean (January 2006)
7) The Untouchables (January 2006)
8) The Interrogations (January 2006)
9) Old Man Duxen vs The Lawman (February 2006)
10) The Snow Will Melt and the Ice Will Cease to Be (February 2006)
11) Old Man Duxen vs John Henberg (February 2006)
12) In Loving Memory... (February 2006)
13) Old Man Duxen Wins the HPW Championship (February 2006)
14) A Life Less Ordinary (February 2006)
15) HPW Championship: Old Man Duxen vs Gaz Dean (February 2006)
16) Thoughts Weigh Heavy (February 2006)
17) HPW Championship Golden Handshake match: Old Man Duxen vs Morlo (March 2006)
18) HPW Championship Golden Handshake Battle Royal (March 2006)
19) Jimmy Duxen vs The Don (March 2006)
20) A Shadow of His Own... (March 2006)
21) #1 Contenders Tag Team match: Jimmy Duxen & Morlo vs Daunte & Draven (March 2006)
22) A Shocking Collusion (April 2006)
23) Beginning of the End (April 2006)

Disc 2:
24) Conclusion of HPW World Championship: Brett Anderson vs John Slider (November 2008)
25) He's Back
26) HPW.com: Heady Headliner Quits HPW (November 2008)
27) Back in the Race (November 2008)
28) HPW.com: Cameraman's Comments (November 2008)
29) Feigned Outrage (November 2008)
30) Jimmy Duxen vs Illy Mustafa (November 2008)
31) Otis Jones Made in Manhatten (November 2008)
32) The Slap Heard Round the World [Wide Web] (November 2008)
33) Illy Mustafa & Otis Jones vs Jimmy Duxen & John Slider (November 2008)
34) Day of Wrest (December 2008)
35) Jimmy Duxen vs Rip Thomas (December 2008)
36) Devil On Your Shoulder (December 2008)
37) Otis Jones vs Jimmy Duxen (December 2008)
38) Commercial With Jimmy Duxen (Christmas 2008)
39) Down to Earth (February 2009)
40) Nacido Libre Luchador vs Jimmy Duxen (February 2009)
41) HPW.com: Hughes Out of Action, New Acting Chairman (February 2009)
42) New Business (February 2008)
43) HPW.com: HPW Releases 35 Office Staff (February 2009)
44) HPW World Championship: Illy Mustafa vs Jimmy Duxen (February 2009)
45) HPW.com: HPW Office Confirms Title Vacancy (February 2009)

Disc 3:
46) HPW.com: Slider Benched (February 2009)
47) HPW.com: Duxen vs Mustafa 3: The History (February 2009)
48) Win, Lose, or Draw (February 2009)
49) HPW World Championship Last Man Standing match: Jimmy Duxen vs Illy Mustafa (March 2009)
50) HPW.com: Public Retraction (March 2009)
51) The Second Assault (March 2009)
52) For Your Own Good (March 2009)
53) Jimmy Duxen vs Jesse Hash (March 2009)
54) A Helping Hand (March 2009)
55) HPW.com: Hughes Returning This Sunday? (March 2009)
56) The Boss is Back? (March 2009)
57) Jimmy Duxen vs John Slider (March 2009)
58) Jimmy Duxen vs Jesse Hash (April 2009)
59) Requests Denied (April 2009)
60) Character Flaw (April 2009)
61) #1 Contenders match: Kenny Dior vs Jimmy Duxen vs Andrew McWilliam (April 2009)
62) Nuisance Call (April 2009)
63) HPW.com: Duxen's Reaction to Unwanted Caller (April 2009)
64) Unprofessional Jealousy (April 2009)
65) Jimmy Duxen vs Matt Gregor (May 2009)
66) A Shock in Store (May 2009)
67) HPW World Championship: Illy Mustafa vs Jimmy Duxen (May 2009)
68) HPW.com: The Duxen Era Strengthened at Backlash (May 2009)
69) Tribute to a Champion (May 2009)

Disc 4:
70) Top of the Heap (May 2009)
71) Jimmy Duxen vs Otis Jones (May 2009)
72) A Day in the Life of Duxen (May 2009)
73) HPW.com: Statement on Former Deputy Jimmy Duxen (May 2009)
74) HPW World Championship: Jimmy Duxen vs Kenny Dior (May 2009)
75) HPW.com: HPW Making Headlines in St Louis (June 2009)
76) Up to the Challenge (June 2009)
77) Back in Focus (June 2009)
78) HPW World Championship: Jimmy Duxen vs Micheal Bloodman (June 2009)
79) HPW.com: Typo in This Week's Lineup? (June 2009)
80) Lockdown (June 2009)
81) HPW World Championship Steel Cage match: Jimmy Duxen vs Julian Bosley (June 2009)
82) HPW.com: Stipulations for Duxen vs Hughes at HPW 5 (June 2009)
83) Call of Destiny (June 2009)
84) 2-out-of-3 Falls: Jimmy Duxen vs Harrison Hughes (July 2009)
85) HPW.com: HPW Under New Management, World Title Vacated (July 2009)
86) HPW.com: HPW Star Tops the List (August 2009)
87) Sentenced (August 2009)
88) Jimmy Duxen vs Agramon (August 2009)
89) Summer of the Cold Shoulder (August 2009)
90) When the Man Comes Around (August 2009)
91) Jimmy & Old Man Duxen vs Harrison Hughes & Morlo (August 2009)

[The Headliner]

1) Introducing the World's Oldest Rookie
    - by TheGopher

Name: Old Man Duxen

Age: 63

Height: 6"

Weight: 185 lbs

Other Physical Traits: Old Man Duxen has shoulder-length hair, which is wild and gray.  He also has a goatee, which is long and messy as well. He wrestles without his shirt, which shows off his relatively slim build. He wears blue jeans with holes in the knees, they are dirty and held up by a belt.

Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri

Theme Song: "Awake" - Godsmack

Preferred Style: Brawler

Finisher: Duxen Cutter (RKO)

Other Trademark Moves: Duxen Elbow (top rope elbow smash), double arm DDT, sit down neck breaker

[The Headliner]

2) When I'm Sixty-Four (January 2006)
     - by TheGopher

Dear Irene,

It's been ten years since your passing, not a day goes by that I do not think of you. The way you looked, the way you smelled, the way you felt - but most importantly, I think of the way you touched my life, the way you motivated me to do better for myself and for my family. You taught me everything... kindness, generosity, and how to not take life for granted. We're only here on this earth for so long, we have to make the most of our time.

I spent the decade since your death in mourning, I've lost touch with the outer world and I have been unable to move on. I miss you, it isn't fair that you were taken from me... but I can't mourn your loss forever. I need to be there for Jimmy, he can't constantly worry about me and my feelings. I'm his father, I need to be there for him. He's twenty-eight now... you'd be so proud of the man he's grown up to be. He's an officer of the law, he proudly serves our community.

My therapist tells me that I need to take up a hobby... he says that if I was active I would look and feel better. He tells me that mourning your death as much as I do is taking a toll on me, killing me from the inside out. So, I am going to take his advice. I saw a flyer at the grocery store for something called "HPW." It's a professional wrestling league... they were looking for people from all over to take part in their organization, no training required.

I thought to myself that this would be a way for me to travel the world and to keep busy. Now honey, I know what you're thinking - I'm too old. Age is just a number, I use to take part in all sorts of bar fights (don't let Jimmy know, hehe) so I have some fighting experience. Besides, if it doesn't work out, I can always come home - back to this trailer, the place I've lived all my life. I want more for myself Irene, and this is something I really want to do. Wish me the best of luck, I'll let you know how it goes.

With Love,
Jimmy Duxen Sr.

Old Man Duxen lets the pen fall from his sweaty hands... it's three in the morning as he folds the letter to his diseased wife up neatly and places it into an envelope. He carefully writes "Irene" on the top of the envelope and carries the letter into his bedroom. It isn't much, the bedroom that is. A twin sized bed that has been rather empty since Irene's death, a night table with a lamp, and an old thirteen inch TV with the dials.

He bends down, crouching at the foot of his bed. His knees pop, a sign that the man is certainly aging. He reaches under the bed and pulls out a box marked "NOSTALGIA" in red writing. He slowly opens the memory box and puts the letter to Irene in it, on top of dozens of other letters with the same labeling. Perhaps writing a letter to his dead wife isn't the best way to mourn, but it's the only way he knows.

As he sits onto the bed he glances at the clock once more. His eyes lower and connect with a picture hanging on an adjacent wall. It's of himself, Irene, and Jimmy Jr., it must be at least twenty years old. They are all smiling, Irene looking more beautiful than ever.

Duxen reaches into his shirt pocket and pulls out a pack of Marlboro cigarettes, he takes out a stick and shoves the pack back into his pocket. As he lights his cigarette, he thinks about how he should quit - how he never should have started in the first place. After all, it is what took his wife.

Nonetheless, he takes a drag on the cigarette and exhales. Smoke pours from his mouth and lungs. He puts the cigarette out and smiles - tomorrow afternoon he will head out for the HPW headquarters. "Wrestling's oldest rookie!" is what the talent again squealed in delight when Duxen met with him a few weeks back... he seems more like a sideshow attraction than a serious competitor. Nonetheless, Duxen has a lot to prove - it won't be easy winning matches, winning over the fans, and winning over Jimmy. After all, he will have to tell his son where he is going. Chances are, Jimmy Duxen Jr. will not be happy.


It was a little after nine the next morning when Jimmy’s phone rang, shattering the unsettling silence that had encompassed the one bedroom apartment. On a policeman’s salary, he could have easily afforded more. However, Jimmy was set on saving his money so he could be the provider for a family of his own.

The phone rang once more, this time seemingly louder. Jimmy stumbled from the kitchen to the bedroom and picked up the receiver. He breathes deeply as he answers the phone.

Jimmy: “Hello?”

Old Man Duxen: “Hello son, did I wake you?”

Jimmy: “Nope, I’ve been awake for a couple of hours. I couldn’t sleep.”

Old Man Duxen: “Well, you need to rest – you work so hard, you should enjoy your day off when it comes around.”

Jimmy: “If only the citizens of St. Louis felt the same appreciation. [laughs] So, pa, what can I do for you?”

Old Man Duxen: “Well son, I really didn’t want to tell you this over the phone – but… but, I am going away for the time being. I talked with a talent agent from that HPW organization, the wrestling company, and I am going to give it a try.”

Jimmy didn’t respond. What his father couldn’t see was the smile that spread from cheek to cheek. He thought to himself that his father had gone off the deep end, either that or he was just pulling his leg. Jimmy inhaled a deep breath…

Old Man Duxen: “I know what you’re thinking – you’re thinking I’ve gone and lost all of my marbles. Well, that may be true. However, my doctors and therapists have been suggesting I take up some sort of hobby or I am likely to wither away to nothing.”

It was then that it hit Jimmy – he’s serious. He’s one hundred percent serious! This old man, this sixty-three year old man wants to be a pro wrestler! Arguing would be useless, of course. Jimmy knew his father well enough… when his mind was made up, there was no changing it. No matter how persuasive of a talker a man could be, you simply can’t change Duxen’s mind. The stubbornness runs in the blood.

Jimmy: “Alright, pa. I understand that this is something you want to do… BUT, I can’t fathom you doing this alone. Not at your age, at least. This afternoon I will go up to the station and request an extended leave, just for a few weeks or so. I want to make sure you’re going to be alright.”

Jimmy knew he could be just as stubborn as his father, and that this would be the only way to ensure his dad wasn’t getting in too deep.

Old Man Duxen: “Agreed. After your given some time off, come over to the trailer and make sure you have everything you need. We head out for the HPW headquarters this evening – it’s a long drive, so we’ll drive in shifts. I’ll see you then.”

Jimmy set down the receiver and shook his head. His father’s stubbornness was just plain foolish, but if it were something he wanted to do, he’d have to let him do it. At least this way he can be by his side, if it gets too rough or if he doesn’t like it, he’ll drag him home.

One thing is for sure – Old Man Duxen certainly won’t fit it.

[The Headliner]

3) Conclusion of #1 Contenders Gauntlet match (January 2006)
     - by The Headliner

David Wright III, accompanied by James Jeeves, enters the ring in colored trunks bearing his initials. He looks at Gideon with disapproval, and locks up with the painted enigma. As Wright's fortunes descend throughout the battle, his trusty assistant Jeeves slips him a set of brass knuckles and distracts the referee. The pompous gentleman delivers a cheap shot to Gideon's temple, and disposes of the weapon before making a cover. Jeeves allows the official to return to duty, and he begins to count but only slaps the mat twice before Gideon somehow kicks out.

Outraged, Wright takes issue with the referee's judgment, but the official stands by the pace of his count. As the disgruntled Englishman turns around to issue more punishment to his opponent, Gideon reaches up and hooks him in an inside cradle for a successful three-count.

Wright is beside himself, and refuses to leave the ring. The next entrant is already on his way out: a 63-year-old man with gray, shoulder-length hair. He climbs onto the apron and tells the protesting European to get out and let him have his shot. The aristocrat finds it absurd that Old Man Duxen is telling him what to do, and confronts him at the edge of the ring. Meanwhile, Gideon gets to his feet and clobbers Wright from behind, while Old Man Duxen pulls down the top rope to send him toppling to the floor onto his assistant Jeeves.

Duxen enters the ring to face Gideon, and these are the last two men remaining in the Gauntlet match. Gideon is now bleeding from the strike with brass knuckles to his head, but he appears stable and ready to fight the world's oldest rookie. They lock up, and Gideon shoves Duxen into a corner. The old man comes back for more, engaging in another grapple, and again Gideon overpowers him. On a third tie-up however, Duxen takes Gideon's arm behind him with an old-school hammerlock, but Gideon reverses. Duxen reaches down between his legs and picks Gideon's ankle, taking him down and breaking the hold.

The two exchange holds and the advantage trades back and forth, as Gideon has the youth advantage while Old Man Duxen capitalizes on his opponent's weakened state. Towards the end of the contest, a man in his late 20's appears at ringside, and tries to get Duxen's attention. It's his son, Jimmy Duxen Jr, trying to tell his father to leave the ring and stop wrestling. Old Man Duxen is confused by his son's insistence, and tells him that he's about to become number-one contender to the title. Jimmy clearly thinks his father's crazy, and pleads with him to come back to St Louis, but the old man refuses.

Seizing the opportunity created by the distraction, Gideon kicks Old Man Duxen in the stomach and hoists him up in a Razor's Edge position, then drives his shoulders into the mat with the move he calls the Cleansing Fire. Jimmy clasps his head in his hands, and a pinfall later, the bell rings to declare Gideon the winner of the Gauntlet match.



Fairfax: "Serious misfortune for Old Man Duxen, as family ties have just cost him the number-one contendership to the HPW Title!"

Solomon: "Misfortune? This is the best thing that could happen to him. He's far too old to be in that ring; his son has done him a favor tonight - hopefully he'll hang up the boots for good now."

[The Headliner]

4) Introducing Jimmy
     - by TheGopher

Manager: Jimmy Duxen Jr.

Age: 28

Height: 6'2

Weight:  160

Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri

[The Headliner]

5) The Bad Aftertaste (January 2006)
     - by TheGopher

Jimmy Duxen enters his father’s locker room following the match. Old Man Duxen sits on the wooden bench with a towel over his shoulder, his elbows are on his knees and his hands are holding up his head. Regret sweeps over Jimmy, he shouldn’t have gotten involved.

Jimmy: I’m sorry pa, I should have stayed backstage – I had no right going out there and doing what I did. I said I would support you and I thought that I would, but seeing you out there with a man more than twice your age and twice your size...

Old Man Duxen bitterly lifts his head; his eyes connect with his son’s. He hates that he is so angry with him, but for the time being there is nothing he can do to calm himself. His own flesh and blood cost him his debut match.

Old Man Duxen: I don’t need you to do me any favors! I didn’t ask you to come on this trip with me to cost me matches! Hell, I didn’t even ask you to come at all!!!

Immediately Duxen regretted yelling at his son… Ever since Jimmy was just a boy, he knew to stay away from his father when he was mad. The Duxen men were not only known for their stubbornness, but also their tempers.

As Jimmy opens his mouth to apologize, he is interrupted by a knock on the door. Before Jimmy or Old Man Duxen can answer the knock, the door pops open. In comes a beautiful tall blonde in her late twenties, she has a camera and an all access pass to the arena.

Jane: Allow me to introduce myself... my name is Jane and I am your personal camera woman. I’ll be in charge of shooting your vignettes, promos, and other HPW related videos. They asked me to get a couple of post-match comments and to inform you of your opponent for next week.

Jimmy: Next week? You mean you’re going to keep on competing?

Jane: Jimmy? You must be Jimmy... I was told that you’d be acting as Mr. Duxen’s manager – how come you weren’t at ringside the entire match? If we’re going to pay you, you should at least do your job…

Old Man Duxen: Payment won’t be necessary, Jane. Jimmy hasn’t signed with the company; he was just with me tonight. He’s a policeman back home; he wanted to make sure I’d be alright.

Jane: Well, if you don’t mind my intruding – I think your son has a great stage presence. You may have lost the match tonight, but did you see the look on the audiences faces? Jimmy obviously did something to captivate them… he’s got a lot of charisma and could add a lot.

Jimmy shot his father a look of uncertainty – this was his father’s thing, not his. He didn’t want to steal his thunder. Normally the older man would be managing the younger man, not the other way around. Duxen glanced back, he was still angry but he was obviously proud of the compliments his son received.

Jane: Now, down to business. Your next opponent will be Gaz Dean. He made quite an impression in the tournament tonight. If you’d like, I want to film your thoughts on him, or the match, or anything HPW related. If you want your name out there, we’ll have to film. You may begin whenever…

Duxen takes a deep breath and exhales. Millions of thoughts are racing through his mind, this is the first chance he has been given to speak his mind, and he really wants to make a lasting impression.

Old Man Duxen: Tonight you witnessed the debut of Wrestling’s Oldest Rookie – and tonight, you witnessed his first loss. Could I have won that gauntlet? Should I have won that match? The answer to both questions is yes. But, did I win that match? No.

Old Man Duxen once again shoots his son a look of disapproval – knowing he had a chance to win the match and be named number one contender had he not got involved.

Old Man Duxen: I lost the match, no excuses. I let myself down, but I know how to pick myself back up. Mark my words that I will be back in the ring next week giving it my all! What happens if I fall again, and again, and again? I will scoop myself back up, until one day I realize my dream and become champion! Gaz Dean, I’m coming for you!

[The Headliner]

6) Old Man Duxen vs Gaz Dean (January 2006)
     - by The Headliner

Back in the arena, we're treated to the entrance of Gaz Dean, an insolent hoodlum from Pontefract, near Leeds in England. As the cap-wearing hooligan abuses fans on his way to the ring, Doug Solomon attempts to explain what he has learnt about the British "chav" phenomenon. He describes their disrespectful, confrontational attitude that Gaz Dean embodies so well, and their obsession with cheap "bling" and booze, hip-hop music, soccer and certain brands of clothing. But when having to also stop and explain the meaning of "yob," Solomon gives up and tells his broadcast partner to do his own research.

As Dean, a semi-finalist in last week's tournament, hangs his Burberry cap on the ring post, our attention is turned to the two men walking through the curtain next. Old Man Duxen, the world's oldest rookie, is accompanied by his 28-year-old son, Jimmy. We're reminded that last week, Jimmy's distraction cost his father dearly in the Gauntlet match when he begged him to quit wrestling and come back with him to St Louis; however, putting aside his disappointment, Old Man Duxen has recruited his son to manage his wrestling career in HPW. The commentators are curious over how this will work, and Doug Solomon hopes that Jimmy can make his 63-year-old father "see sense" and hang up the boots.

The bell rings, and the elder Duxen locks up with Gaz Dean. The old man outmaneuvers Dean, twisting his arm behind his back in a hammerlock. Apparently caught off-guard, Dean wriggles free of the hold and insists on starting again. They enter a second grapple, and again Duxen gets the better of his younger opponent. Flustered, Dean shakes him off and complains to the referee that Duxen pulled his hair - a blatant falsehood. They engage in a third collar-and-elbow tie-up, only this time Dean spits in the old man's face and takes him over with an armdrag. He sneers and taunts the floored rookie, who wipes the saliva from his eye and gets to his feet.

Jimmy is seen looking angered at ringside by the disgusting lack of respect shown to his father, and Gaz Dean pie-faces Old Man Duxen into the ropes. The elder wrestler reverses an Irish whip though, and takes Dean up and over with a backdrop, drawing cheers from the crowd. Dean gets to his feet, and is met with back-handed chops by Old Man Duxen, who then whips him into the ropes again and hits him with a back-elbow to the jaw, knocking the "chav" down. Duxen leans down to capitalize with a hold, but Dean rolls him onto his back and perches over him, raining down with punches to the head. The old man's son climbs onto the apron and demands that the referee do something about these closed-fisted strikes, but this only serves to distract the official while the opportunistic Brit begins choking Jimmy's father on the mat. The referee finally turns around and breaks it up, as the anxious son steps down to the floor.

Gaz Dean revels in his ill-gotten advantage, cockily beating on his gray-haired opponent, but his patience wears thin when a Five Knuckle Shuffle and a Hip Hop Drop fail to put Old Man Duxen away. He eventually seeks to end it all with an F5 he calls the Sovereign Ring, but while on Dean's shoulders Duxen holds onto the top rope to block the move. A frustrated Dean tries tugging him away from the ropes, and Old Man Duxen releases at just the right time to use Dean's movements against him, sliding down the Brit's front and grabbing his head, delivering the Duxen Cutter. Jimmy looks on in disbelief as his father makes a cover and scores the pinfall, earning his first professional wrestling victory.


The 28-year-old climbs into the ring, and receives a hug once his father's hand is raised.

[The Headliner]

7) The Untouchables (January 2006)
     - by TheGopher

The vignette opens with a shot of a sign that reads "St. Louis, Missouri." The shot slowly fades to a shot of an old dilapidated house. The camera pans over the porch, which is complete with a broken staircase railing and holes in it. Next, the camera shows the inside.

The first room we see is the kitchen. There are dishes stacked up high and full trash bags placed next to the trash can. On the table, there is an ashtray with a cigarette still burning. The camera heads down a tiny hallway, exposing a bedroom.

The bed is unmade, as the unsightly flannel blankets lie ruffled atop the bed. On the desk there is a cord telephone, there is a picture sat beside it. It depicts the Duxen family as it once was, with the beautiful Irene, Jimmy Duxen Sr., and their only child Jimmy Duxen Jr.

The camera pans out of the bedroom and follows the hall to the backdoor. We are taken outside to a small carpeted patio. In a rocking chair sits Old Man Duxen, dressed in tattered jeans and a greasy t-shirt. His hair is a mess, blowing wildly in the wind.

Old Man Duxen: "It aint much, but after sixty-three years it's all I have. A lifetime lies in that house, buried under cigarette burns, cheap furniture, and ancient technological devices. I never was a rich man, in terms of money, so I got use to going without."

Old Man Duxen breathes deeply, taking a cigarette from the pack in his pocket. He lights it with his cheap lighter and takes a drag.

Old Man Duxen: "As time went on, it seemed that no matter how hard I worked I would never be able to have 'nice' things. I was able to come to terms with that. What I lacked in material possessions, I made up for with my son and my lovely wife."

Duxen begins to rock back and forth in his chair, he takes another drag on the cancerous cigarette and ashes before continuing...

Old Man Duxen: "There was one material possession I valued, however. Although it appeared to be a piece of junk, to me it was worth a hell of a lot. I am talking about my car... the car that my wife and I saved up for months to buy so our family could be mobile."

Duxen throws down his cigarette and stomps on it with his foot. He looks deeply into the camera as his subtle relaxation disappears revealing an intense, sincere look of anger.

Old Man Duxen: You see folks, the Lawman found it amusing to destroy what little I have... you see, his actions have cost me both financially and emotionally. When messing with my car, you in turn messed with my family. I no longer have my wife to keep me calm - she's gone, and now so is my car! I laugh at you because you take me lightly, you don't think I can beat you. Well son, here's a little known fact about Old Man Duxen... I am a fighter, always have been and always will be. Before the HPW, it was in the bars. I've done and seen some horrible things in my day. Come this Friday night, it's going to be a blast from the past... I won't rest until your shoulders are pinned to the mat as the official counts the three... I won't rest until my arms are raised in victory and your body lies unconscious.

Old Man Duxen stands up, kicking over the rocking chair. He walks into his house and slams the backdoor.

[The Headliner]

8) The Interrogations (January 2006)
     - by The Headliner

As E-Time celebrates we go backstage, where HPW officials are talking with Jimmy Duxen, Jr, who is accompanied by his father, the world's oldest rookie, Old Man Duxen. Aware of Jimmy's role in the police force back in St Louis, the officials are asking him to lead an investigation into the disappearance of the HPW Championship belt. He's reluctant to commit, saying that he has no authority in this state, but encouraged by his proud father Jimmy complies, saying that if the thief can be found, he'll find him - and interrogations will begin tonight.

Solomon: "How about that? An officer of the law is personally on the case of the missing belt."

Fairfax: "And it's about time. The response of the local authorities has been unfortunate, to say the least. They haven't taken this incident seriously at all, insisting that HPW has orchestrated this to help promote a wrestling show."

Solomon: "The thief may have been counting on that reaction, Chad, believing he could get away with it because the cops would assume it was... y'know... a publicity stunt."

Fairfax: "You may be right, but now Jimmy Duxen, Jr, is conducting his own unofficial investigation. I don't think the thief bargained on HPW being so resourceful."

Solomon: "And I can't wait to see Gideon get his hands on the crook who stole his belt!"


After another commercial break, we're watching backstage as Jimmy Duxen, Jr, sits at a table and interviews his first suspect, Illusion, who is clearly there under duress. The police officer makes a comment about the UWA Global Title on Illusion's shoulder, and asks him where the "other" belt is. The Canadian takes offense, thinking that Jimmy is goading him over his loss to Gideon. Jimmy assures him that he's only seeking the truth, and states that Illusion has more reason than anybody to steal the belt, considering he's the guy that Gideon defeated to win it. Illusion again takes offense, standing up and leaning over towards Jimmy. Two HPW officials step forward and calm the wrestler down, and Jimmy continues. He notes that Illusion has a history of wearing championship belts wherever he pleases, such as wearing that Global Title belt here in HPW against the UWA's wishes. Illusion is impatient, laughing at the would-be detective and rhetorically asking where he's been seen wearing the HPW Title belt lately. The Toronto native pats the foreign belt on his shoulder and claims to be the one true champion in this business, and the way he's going to prove it is by defeating Gideon tonight in the middle of the ring, one-on-one, not by stealing his belt like a petty criminal. He claims his biggest crime is breaking records, as the most gifted athlete in this business. He ends by asking Jimmy why the hell he'd steal a belt he thought he was about to win that night anyway, and leaves the room as officials let him go.


Back from commercials, we're once again backstage with Jimmy Duxen, Jr, who has left the interview room and is hurrying down a corridor after a large figure in a strapless straightjacket. Morlo stops when addressed, and turns around, peering at the police officer through his Hannibal-like mask. Jimmy comes over a little nervous now that he's face-to-face with him, but proceeds to ask Morlo what he knows about the championship belt that went missing last week. Morlo stares at him, wordless, breathing heavily. Jimmy carefully persists, stating that it was Morlo's attack of a referee that caused a distraction, allowing the thief access to the briefcase containing the belt. He asks if Morlo had a direct part to play in the theft, saying that aiding and abetting can land him in serious trouble. Morlo still says nothing, but appears to be getting more annoyed with Jimmy's questioning. Bravely, Jimmy offers him a deal, promising that they'll go easy on him if he gives them a name, identifying the person who actually stole the belt. Morlo looks down at his hand, and flexes his thumb and forefinger, and Jimmy takes this as his cue to leave, calling to Morlo as he hurries back up the corridor that he can call him at any time with information...


Returning from the last commercial break of the evening, Jimmy Duxen, Jr, has another interview in progress backstage. Sitting across from him, leaning back in his chair with his feet on the table, is Gaz Dean, the cap-wearing hooligan from Pontefract in Britain. It's clear that he has no respect for his current surroundings, and appears to see the whole thing as a joke. Jimmy tells Gaz that he's not familiar with the British "chav" culture, but he's come across plenty of brash, insolent young thugs in his line of work, and Gaz fits the mould. He refers to Dean's criminal record, noting that it reads like a laundry list of misdemeanors, and asks Gaz why he should believe this isn't just another count of theft on his resumé. Dean claims he's clean, and won't fall for "the dirty tricks of no pig." The police officer observes that Gaz likes "bling," and says that a gold belt is "some pretty heavy bling." Dean insists that he "ain't done nothing," and inquires as to why Jimmy isn't asking these officials any questions, saying they look "well dodgy." He says that Jimmy "ain't even a real cop in this place," and claims that if he doesn't "watch it," he'll have him "done" for harrassment. Reluctantly, Jimmy lets the young man go, and Dean sneers cockily at the officials on his way out of the room.

Fairfax: "Jimmy Duxen, Jr, doesn't appear to be getting anywhere with his lines of enquiry."

Solomon: "He's been interviewing people all night. I'm sure he's picked up a few clues that will lead him to the stolen belt."

Fairfax: "We can only hope so. Because right now, the HPW Title is about to be defended for the first time, and the champion still has no belt!"


Solomon: "Nothing's been proved! So many people have been interviewed - it could be any one of them."

Fairfax: "Well on that note, I hear we've just got time to call in for an update on proceedings. Hopefully the lowlife has been identified."


Before the show goes off air, we cut back to Jimmy Duxen, Jr, who is calling it a night on his investigation. Walking out to his car with his father, he explains to officials that he has a few leads he'll follow up but nothing looks too promising. Just as they reach his vehicle, a backstage attendant catches up with them and asks if they're still looking for the belt thief. He tells Jimmy that he found the back door swinging open last week, and saw someone speeding away before the end of the show. The officials perk up, and Jimmy asks if he saw the driver, but the attendant says all he saw was the car screeching out of the parking lot. When asked about the vehicle itself, he replies that he doesn't know enough about cars to name the model, but he made a note of the details. He produces a folded piece of scrap paper, and after glancing it over Jimmy vows to run a check on this license plate as soon as he can. As he and Old Man Duxen climb into their car and buckle up, we hear him say that by next Friday night, we may know the culprit who stole the HPW Championship belt...

[The Headliner]

9) Old Man Duxen vs The Lawman (February 2006)
     - by The Headliner

After commercials, we're looking backstage as officials are with the attendant who provided details of the belt thief's car last week. They're thanking him for his help, but informing him that it didn't lead them to the car, unfortunately. The attendant looks more excited than disappointed however, and says that he came to tell them the car is outside. The officials look at each other and ask if he's sure, and he says that he's positive - he's never seen another car like it. With new hope, they follow him outside, and he takes them over to a white Ford Fiesta with a foreign license plate. He tells them that this is definitely the vehicle he saw speeding from the parking lot when the belt was stolen. The officials are immediately in agreement: This is Gaz Dean's car.

Solomon: "Oh my."

Fairfax: "That would explain why nothing came up in the search, Doug. I don't think he ever licensed his car in this country!"

Solomon: "That comes as no surprise, but Gaz Dean stole the HPW Title belt?"

Fairfax: "Not that shocking either, when you consider his record. But what does this mean for tonight's main event?"

Solomon: "I can't even... Gideon's going to tear him limb from limb... This is going to be ugly."

Fairfax: "At least the belt will now come back into HPW's possession. But you're right, Doug - our main event just got a whole lot more personal!"


Awake by Godsmack plays into the arena, and Old Man Duxen walks through the curtain with his son, Jimmy Duxen, Jr. It's unclear if they're aware of the latest development backstage, as they both seem focused on the task at hand. Standing in the ring, the 28-year-old Jimmy rubs his gray-haired father's shoulders, preparing him for what they hope will be his second consecutive victory in professional wrestling.

His Scottish opponent, with short, brown, spiked hair and a tattoo on one arm, makes his way to the ring with a chip on his shoulder. Wearing knee-length demin shorts and black pads, the Lawman takes off his black T-shirt and throws it at Old Man Duxen when climbing through the ropes. Jimmy is angered, but it is Old Man Duxen who retalliates with punches that get the match off to a swinging start.

The two wrestlers trade blows as Jimmy leaves the ring, and Old Man Duxen backs the Lawman into a corner. He lays in with a series of chops, but the Lawman reverses an Irish whip across the ring. Duxen's back hits the turnbuckles, and he staggers out of the corner into a clothesline from the Scotsman.

The Lawman retains control for the first half of the match, but Old Man Duxen builds a comeback that sees a more competitive second half to the contest. Both men score near-falls, with Duxen's double-arm DDT and the Lawman's urinagi each bringing their victims close to defeat. In the end however, the 63-year-old blocks a takedown spear and delivers the Duxen Cutter to earn the pinfall over his younger opponent, marking the second professional win for the world's oldest rookie.


As the Duxens celebrate in the ring, we go backstage where HPW officials are confronting Gaz Dean. He swears he didn't steal the belt, but under the pressure of having an eye witness, he gives himself away. He claims he did it because he thought Illusion would win the tournament after beating him in the semi-finals. He says he was angry with the way Illusion won the match, and wanted to get back at him by ruining the presentation ceremony. But when he heard it was Gideon who won the Three-Way Dance, he needed to get rid of the hot property before he "copped it," so he sold the belt. The officials are frustrated, and ask who he sold it to, but Dean refuses to tell them, proudly stating that he "ain't no grass."

Fairfax: "I have a feeling that Gaz Dean will start talking before the night is over."

Solomon: "But you heard the man, Chad - this is all a misunderstanding! He didn't steal the belt from Gideon; he thought he was stealing it from Illusion!"

Fairfax: "I don't think that's going to matter in the champion's eyes, Doug."

Solomon: "And he doesn't even have it anymore! I mean, come on - can't we just put this down to experience?"

Fairfax: "I will be surprised if Gideon is as forgiving as you, when he gets his hands on Gaz Dean later tonight. I believe there'll be Hell to pay for that lowlife crook!"

[The Headliner]

10) The Snow Will Melt and the Ice Will Cease to Be (February 2006)
     - by TheGopher

On a rusted TV trey sits a small thirteen inch color television. The television depicts a news broadcast, where an African American middle-aged reporter is standing in the middle of a hellacious snowstorm. An estimated ten inches has already fallen, frozen solid to the St. Louis, Missouri ground. The news camera shows icicles dangling from tree limbs and power lines.

Reporter: “In what has turned out to be the largest snowstorm of the season, temperatures continue to fall as several more inches of snow can be expected by sunrise. A winter weather advisory is in affect for all of St. Louis, if you have outdoor pets we here at Channel 8 Action News advise letting them in for the night.”

The camera pans away from the television set to reveal the familiar living room of Old Man Duxen. As the sound from the news reporter fades away, a howling wind can be heard. The papers that were placed atop the coffee table are now blowing across the room.

Our view shifts, now we are able to see the opened window allowing drifting snow into the house. The wind continues to blow, making a mess of the already dirty residence.

Once again the picture changes, we are now led down the Duxen family hallway. As we pass the bedroom, it is revealed that the window in there is wide open as well. The camera takes us to the front porch, allowing for a first hand account of the storm that has taken over  St. Louis. In the distance, a shadowy figure is shown approaching the house.

As the man gets closer, it becomes evident that he is wearing only a pair of ripped jeans! No socks, no shoes, no shirt, no gloves - nothing but the jeans. The snow falls hard, landing in his mangy beard and hair. He continues to linger forward, it is now obvious that the man is Old Man Duxen.

Duxen walks with a purpose as he climbs the stairs of the front porch. There is no telling how long the elderly man has been in the storm, however he is covered with the white curse that has fallen from above. He walks through the front door and stands in his house, he suddenly shakes the snow off of him as if he were a wet dog.

A mountain of snow seemingly flies off of Duxen. He rubs his hands together and stares at the camera...

Old Man Duxen “I’ve had a chance to do a lot of thinking... a lot of thinking about my life, about HPW, and about my opponent for next week’s show. I’ve always found a walk to be an excellent way to relax - tonight was no different.”

“You see, when you’re my age, thoughts tend to weigh heavy. Certain images are depicted in one’s head, these images replay over and over, enough to drive a man insane. The image that has echoed throughout my mind has been of a cocky individual, cheating his way to a win.”

“I was taught that in this life, to really achieve anything, you have to do it fairly. I am a man of morals and a man of principles, which is why it disgusts me when I see people stealing, taking things from others that they do not deserve.”

“As I thought deeper about my opponent for next week, a man that goes by the name of Ice - a few choice words accompanied my thoughts. Over hyped... when I think about Ice, I think of the two weeks he spent building himself up. The vignettes in the gym, his promo from the bar - the man spent two minutes in the ring, but two weeks stroking his own ego!”

“But you see folks, when the show’s over - when it is all said and done, the snow will melt and the ice will cease to be. I am a very tough man, and I didn’t get where I am today by cheating, having some harlot do my dirty work for me. The blood boiling in my veins will melt through you, Ice - proving that you’re nothing more than a one win wonder!”


The scene is set at a local library. Students and reading enthusiasts alike sit inaudibly, concentrating on their tasks at hand. The sound of keys crunching on distant keyboards can be heard indistinctly throughout the room. One student frustratingly uses her calculator to help solve an impossible math problem. The librarian sits at her front desk, her nose stuck in her current book selection. The camera pans over to the library’s main entrance, the door cracks open and Old Man Duxen walks in. He his dressed in the apparel we have come to expect from him; dirty sneakers, torn oil-stained jeans, and a heavy flannel shirt. Strapped over his right shoulder is a dark backpack.

As Duxen walks deeper into the library, almost everyone drops what they are doing to stare at the unsightly specimen. The librarian briefly glances away from her book, taking note of the oddity that has entered the facility. As her eyes meet Duxen's, he awkwardly smiles and winks in her direction. Duxen continues moving forward. He walks to the rear of the library and sits at a table all by himself.

Duxen flings the bag over his shoulder onto the desk. He unzips it unhurriedly and reaches in, pulling out a bottle of beer, an ashtray, and a pack of Marlboro cigarettes. Duxen also pulls out a large orange book… on the cover we can see the words “Webster’s Dictionary.” The elderly man straightens his work area and cracks the book open. He starts thumbing through the pages until finally he comes to the one he desires. Before he begins speaking, Duxen opens his beer and takes a drink.

“This here dictionary defines ‘symbolism’ as the practice of representing things by means of symbols or of attributing symbolic meanings or significance to objects, events, or relationships. Now, before I continue, you may ask yourself, ‘Mr. Duxen, what does this have to do with anything?’ The answer is quite simple; you see folks, it has been brought to my attention that Ice failed to see the symbolic gesture of my last vignette. Ice failed to understand what my gesture was supposed to ‘prove’ to him…”

Duxen takes another swig of his beer. He reaches into the cigarette package and pulls one out, lighting it in the back of the library. For the time being, none of the inhabitants realize Duxen and his blatant disrespect for the facility’s rules.

“By weathering the storm, I think I ‘proved’ quite a bit. You see, to Ice I only showed off my foolish side, walking through the snow without shoes, going shirtless – to the Ice, it is senseless. To me, however, it represents my willingness to fight through my obstacles. You see Ice, as of right now you’re my latest obstacle. As you stated yourself, I have many factors that could easily contribute to my downfall. After all, I’m ‘slow,’ I’m ‘weak,’ and I’m ‘stupid.’ Ice was quick to point out that he’s in better shape, that he’s better looking, that he’s a better athlete, that he’s younger…”

Duxen takes a drag on his cigarette and inhales. As he begins to exhale, his lips form into the shape of a smile.

“...but there are obviously a couple of things you are forgetting. These things go by the names of Gaz Dean and the Lawman. What do these people have in common with you, Ice? Let’s take a look back, shall we? January 20, 2006… February 3, 2006… on these nights, I came out victorious against my opponents. Both of these opponents were in excellent physical shape, young, and they were both quick; all of the things that you claim to be. If I was able to beat them, what makes you think I can’t pin you?”

Duxen ashes his cigarette as smoke begins to fill the library. More than one student has noticed that the old man is smoking and drinking in the library. A couple of kids get up and move to the furthest table away from Duxen, while others head towards the librarian’s desk.

“I only have to be better than you for three seconds, something I am easily capable of doing. You can mock my age, my wisdom, and my in-ring abilities all you want. However, the fact remains that I will be victorious this Friday night, no matter what!”

Duxen chugs the remnants of his beer and sets it down on the table. The librarian and a group of interested students are making their way to Duxen’s table. Before the librarian can say a word, she is interrupted as Duxen starts talking towards the camera once again.

“Oh, and one more thing Ice… I would like to show you a little demonstration before I leave these kind people to their books.”

Duxen reaches into his bag and pulls out a small cooler. He reaches into the cooler and pulls out an ice cube, which he holds in the palm of his left hand. With his remaining hand, Duxen grabs the empty beer bottle from the table and smacks it hard against his own forehead not once, but twice. The glass shatters and Duxen is lacerated above the eye. The blood pours from his wound as he puts his hand under his face, allowing the blood to drip onto the cube of ice. Duxen slams the bloody ice cube onto the table, he once again looks into the camera.

“Point and case!”

Duxen grabs his bag and stumbles out of the room. The camera showcases the ice cube as it slowly begins to melt from the heat of Old Man Duxen’s blood.

[The Headliner]

11) Old Man Duxen vs John Henberg (February 2006)
     - by The Headliner

Chad Fairfax: "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to HPW Friday Night, where Headline Pro Wrestling takes athletic aggression to new levels. I am Chad Fairfax, and joining me to call tonight's action is the criminally overpaid Doug Solomon."

Doug Solomon: "Oh you joke about it, Chad, but the legal issues surrounding HPW right now are no laughing matter. Gaz Dean has been made a scapegoat, and he is being sacrificed to that religious fruit loop, Gideon tonight."

Fairfax: "A scapegoat? How do you figure Gaz De..."

Solomon: "Does he have Gideon's belt? Does he? No. Gaz Dean is not the man they should be punishing in a Handcuffs-on-a-Pole Match. Someone's running around out there with the HPW Championship belt, and that's who they should be concentrating on right now!"

Fairfax: "The belt needs to be found, there's no doubt about that - but if Gaz Dean hadn't stolen it and then sold it to the highest bidder, we wouldn't be in this mess; Gideon wouldn't be without the gold to represent his title, and Dean wouldn't be facing corporal punishment here tonight!"

Solomon: "Corporal punishment?! This can't be allowed to happen - this needs to be stopped before it goes too far! You saw what Gideon did last week! He's the one who needs to be locked up!"

Fairfax: "Well if Dean can retrieve those handcuffs from the top of the pole before the champion does, then he'll be free to use them however he pleases. But Doug, we've got a whole night of competition lined up, so we need to get right into it on HPW Friday Night!"


I Stand Alone by Godsmack pipes through the speaker system, and a black motorcycle is ridden down the aisle by John 'Ice' Henberg. The tattooed and mustached biker climbs into the ring, as the commentators discuss how a domestic dispute leaves him without Vicky by his side, who was instrumental in his debut victory last week.

Another Godsmack song, Awake, takes over the building as Old Man Duxen walks through the curtain. The gray-haired 63-year-old is accompanied by his 28-year-old son, Jimmy Duxen, Jr. Recalling recent weeks, the commentators note that as an off-duty police officer, Jimmy's prolonged investigation remains HPW's best chance of recovering the stolen title belt. The younger Duxen gives his father encouragement, then steps out of the ring before the opening bell.

The silver-haired man from St Louis limbers up and enters a grapple with Ice, who tries to overpower him with a hip toss but Duxen blocks it and goes for one of his own. Ice prevents the move and attempts to reverse it, but the old man slaps him in the chest. Duxen hits several knife-edge chops to Ice, backing him into the ropes, before whipping him across the ring and finally nailing a hip toss upon his opponent's return.

Ice appears slightly embarrassed, getting back to his feet and approaching the gray-haired grappler. They lock up, but Ice drives a knee into the old man's chest. He follows up with a clubbing forearm to the shoulders, followed by another. He sends Duxen into the ropes with an Irish whip, and then takes him down with a clothesline.

They go back and forth, with the blue-jeaned biker using his power advantage over his older opponent, and Duxen employing his more technical methods to compromise his ruthless foe. In the closing moments, Duxen tries to execute a sit-down neckbreaker, but Ice pulls free and turns around, countering by lifting his opponent for an atomic drop. On the way down however, the world's oldest rookie counters with the Duxen Cutter, driving Ice face-first into the canvas. He makes a cover, and a three-count seals Ice's fate.


As the referee raises the old man's hand, his music plays and Jimmy makes a beckoning motion towards the entranceway. Through the curtain, a parade of young women dressed in brightly sequinned outfits dance their way to the ring. One of them hands a bag to Jimmy, and they all enter the ring as a group of kids follow behind and begin throwing streamers while the ladies dance around a bewildered Old Man Duxen. Jimmy takes a microphone, and warmly congratulates his father on living the dream; scoring three straight wins in professional wrestling. He joins his dad in the ring amongst the dancers and colored streamers, glowing proudly. He tells him this is his big moment, the one that he came here for - he's been on TV, he's beaten three top-caliber athletes, and now he gets to wear the championship belt. Jimmy reaches into the bag and pulls from it the stolen HPW Title belt. Old Man Duxen is mortified, but Jimmy is still beaming. The women keep dancing, the streamers keep flowing from the smiling children at ringside, and Jimmy hands his father the belt, saying it's time to come home.

Officials appear through the curtain, and Jimmy urges his father that they need to go now - it's over, he's had his moment; he's a champion to him. But Old Man Duxen resists. He tells Jimmy that this isn't what he came here for. Quite angrily, he says that he didn't become a wrestler for this. He reminds his son that he became a wrestler to change his life, not to live a fantasy for a day in the spotlight. With a sigh, he reiterates that he needs to do this; he needs to remain active, to get over the passing of his wife, Jimmy's mother.

Jimmy won't hear it. As officials approach ringside, he tells his father that this is not the way to deal with it. He says that he's needed back in St Louis, away from the constant danger of the ring. Jimmy reminds the old man that he never wanted him to be a wrestler - that he told him it was crazy from the outset. He says he's already lost his mother; he won't lose his father to something so barbaric.

The music, the dancing and the streamers have stopped, and Old Man Duxen looks to reassure his son. But pushing past the shoulders of officials, the pale faced, dark figure of Gideon slides into the ring and attacks Jimmy. The HPW Champion, deprived of his belt from the night he won the title, floors the off-duty police officer and pounds away at him with lefts and rights while the women and children bail out, screaming. Distraught, Old Man Duxen pulls Gideon away from his son, only to become the new target of the champion's rage. Gideon beats the old man down, until officials finally manage to restrain him. The Duxens are removed from the ring for their own safety, and the religious zealot seeks out his title belt - but it has gone. By the curtain at the top of the aisle, we locate the smug grin of Gaz Dean, as he holds the belt above his baseball capped head. Amidst the chaos, he has once again stolen the championship belt. He vanishes through the curtain, with the furious Gideon in pursuit.

[The Headliner]

12) In Loving Memory... (February 2006)
     - by TheGopher

As the sun begins to descend, the bitter February air intensifies. The clouds hang heavy as a chilling breeze touches everything in its path. There is a gravel alleyway, not so much a road, it is elongated and winding. On either side of the well-beaten path, trees grow dangerously close. An anticipated winter coat of snow has lightly covered the ground.

In the distance, there is a rumbling. Pieces of gravel begin to fly as a decaying automobile roars closer. The headlights are dim, but are visible. The car speeds recklessly past the treacherous curves with no regard for the driver’s safety. As the car passes by, a glimpse of the license plates can be seen, reading “St. Louis, Missouri.”

Following the car, it’s clear that the driver is in some state of distress. Taking to the curves at speeds exceeding fifty miles per hour, the car inadvertently fish-tails. Luckily, the driver is able to regain control of his vehicle. After passing over a petite hill, the car pulls in to an isolated cemetery.

The rusted vehicle comes to a complete stop. Although the engine is still running, the sound of music can be heard coming from the car stereo. As the door cracks open, the music becomes decipherable. An elderly voice echoes throughout the speakers, it is the voice of the deceased music legend Johnny Cash.

“And I heard, as it were, the noise of thunder: One of the four beasts saying: "Come and see." And I saw. And behold, a white horse.

There's a man goin' 'round takin' names. An' he decides who to free and who to blame. Everybody won't be treated all the same. There'll be a golden ladder reaching down. When the man comes around…

The hairs on your arm will stand up. At the terror in each sip and in each sup. For you partake of that last offered cup, or disappear into the potter's ground. When the man comes around...”

The snow’s pure form is corrupted as a filthy boot slams to the cold earth. Another one follows, leaving a distinguishable imprint on the otherwise undisturbed ground. As the door completely opens, Old Man Duxen steps out. He carefully picks up a bouquet of white roses and a bottle of wine. Closing the car door, Duxen latches on to his belongings and commences trudging forward.

The silence is interrupted as Duxen’s feet crunch the snow below them. He marches on until he comes to a tombstone that is difficult to read. With the glove on his hand, Duxen brushes the snow of the gravestone so the epitaph can be read.

“Here lies Irene Duxen, adored wife, mother, and friend.”

Duxen slowly crouches down; his knees pop as he places the pricey roses on his wife’s grave. Instead of standing back up, Duxen falls to his knees. A single tear rolls down his cheek as he grasps the tombstone with his right hand. There is a heartbreaking stillness as Duxen momentarily clings on to the monument that allows his wife to live on.

Duxen rolls over and sits on the ground, now resting his back on Irene’s headstone. His elbows are rested determinedly upon his knees. He hurriedly brushes away the single tear, after glancing once more at the grave of his wife, Duxen finally begins to speak.

“It’s the day before Valentine’s Day… in light of recent events; I’ve decided to spend the day with my wife. It truly is a difficult task, as all that’s left of what was once a stunning, insubstantial human being is marked by a concrete stone.”

“You see, every so often I make the long drive from my home to this desolate cemetery to recollect the good times I experienced with my wife over the years. I recall our wedding, the birth of our first and only child, the look on her face at our son’s graduation… all of these memories I hold dear to my heart.”

Duxen takes out the bottle of wine that he had tucked in his jacket. He pops the cap off and takes a drink of the wine; he shivers as it slides down his throat. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a cigarette, wasting little time lighting the cancerous stick.

“But you see, that is all they are – they are memories. It seems no matter how hard I try, it is tough for me to grasp on to something current, something real. I’ve tried to preserve a relationship with my son, whom despite his recent decisions, I am very proud of. Obviously, I wasn’t doing as great a job as I thought I was doing, the man still undermines me and questions my decisions.”

“Nevertheless, I can admit that Jimmy made a mistake when he purchased the HPW title from Gaz Dean to give to me as a present, knowing very well that the belt was stolen from the rightful champion. Nonetheless, Jimmy is my family, and I will always stick by his side. You Gideon are a tremendous athlete… but you’re also demented. You had no right putting your hands on my son, a man who is not a trained wrestler.”

“Since you’ve arrived, everything you’ve done has been for the ‘Lord.’ You’ve claimed to be a faithful servant to Him, which is admirable. However, I find it hard to believe that my God, the same one you claim to service night in and night out, would allow you brutalize your opponents for the sins they have committed.”

“I am not as zealous as you Gideon, but I do know that the bible states that no man has the right to judge another man, for it is the Lord’s job to do the judging. Therefore, you’ve no right to judge my son, or me for supporting him.”

“This Friday night, my son will return the HPW title to you… and this Friday night, you will return the heavyweight championship to me. Look around Gideon, for I have seen your worst. You’ve yet to see what I am capable of doing – it isn’t as if I have anything to lose.”

Duxen stands up and inadvertently kicks over the bottle of wine. He tosses down his cigarette and steps on it, extinguishing the flame. He adjusts his coat and looks solemnly into the camera.

“The only thing I’ve cared about, truly cared about, lies six feet below the frozen earth. This Friday night, I’ve no choice, for the sake of my own well being, to take the championship… giving my life a new since of direction, a new since of purpose!”

Duxen turns away from the camera and walks back to his car. As he turns the key and the engine starts, the music can once again be heard.

“Whoever is unjust, let him be unjust still. Whoever is righteous, let him be righteous still. Whoever is filthy, let him be filthy still. Listen to the words long written down, When the man comes around.

Hear the trumpets, hear the pipers. One hundred million angels singin'. Multitudes are marchin' to the big kettle drum. Voices callin', voices cryin'. Some are born an' some are dyin'. It's Alpha's and Omega's Kingdom come.

And the whirlwind is in the thorn tree. The virgins are all trimming their wicks. The whirlwind is in the thorn tree. It's hard for thee to kick against the pricks. In measured hundredweight and penny pound. When the man comes around.

And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts, And I looked and behold: a pale horse. And his name, that sat on him, was Death. And Hell followed with him.”  

Duxen hurriedly pulls away, once again sending tiny pieces of gravel into the air. This time, the camera does not follow him.

[The Headliner]

13) Old Man Duxen Wins the HPW Championship (February 2006)
     - by The Headliner

The cameraman's focus shifts in the parking lot to nearby events, with two more cars arriving at the building. One is a red Vauxhall Nova, the other an old, rusted vehicle.

From the Nova steps Gaz Dean, the baseball capped "chav" from Pontefract in Britain. At the same time, Old Man Duxen and his son Jimmy emerge from the other car. With his father keen to enter the building, Jimmy stops to compliment Dean on his new ride. With pride, Gaz says that he bought it with the money that Jimmy paid for the stolen title belt. Jimmy corrects him, in a tone laced with sarcasm, saying that it was all a publicity stunt for HPW, and not a real theft. After all, he says, that's what he's spent the last week explaining to his sergeant back in St Louis. He pulls his officer's badge from his pocket and the two cohorts laugh, as Old Man Duxen looks on with disapproval.

Fairfax: "I cannot believe that man is still employed as a police officer, after the illegal dealings he has had with Gaz Dean."

Solomon: "Well I guess it's the kind of story that people outside this business are quick to believe, but let's not forget his reasons for doing what he did. All Jimmy wanted was for his father to retire from wrestling - he's concerned for Old Man Duxen's welfare."

Fairfax: "That hardly excuses the purchase of stolen property, let alone the HPW Title belt. Old Man Duxen wants to win the title with his own ability, not have it handed to him by his crooked son."

Solomon: "Now come on, Chad. The old man's already defended his son against Gideon, so who are you to cast aspersions?"

Fairfax: "Gideon was understandably upset last week when the truth came out about his stolen belt, but tonight the champion gets the chance to take out his anger in a sanctioned competition. Although I'm not sure Old Man Duxen deserves to pay for his son's crime."


Awake by Godsmack hits in the arena, and Old Man Duxen walks down the aisle with his 28-year-old son, Jimmy. There is no obvious dissension between them, despite the father's reaction to the conversation that took place when they arrived earlier tonight.

Fairfax: "At sixty-three years of age, the world's oldest rookie is receiving his first opportunity at a pro wrestling championship. He is moments away from facing Gideon one-on-one for the HPW Title, and that is not a prize that Gideon's going to give up easily."

Solomon: "Absolutely not; he's been the champion since January 20th, but he only got his hands on the actual belt last Friday night. I think he considers the belt some kind of symbollic gesture, to the god that he dedicates his every waking breath to serving."

Fairfax: "Serving in his own twisted, unhinged way, yes. And you know he especially has no plans to let the Duxens claim the title after what we saw last week. Gideon spares no compassion for the likes of Jimmy Duxen, Jr, a police officer who illegally purchased the title belt after it had been stolen by Gaz Dean."

Solomon: "How many times do we have to go through this? Jimmy had the best of intentions for his father. It was never anything personal about Gideon!"

Fairfax: "I think it's obvious that Gideon doesn't see it that way, or at the very least, doesn't care. Old Man Duxen finds himself in the middle of all this, with the sole aim of winning the HPW Title. Can he put the emotional issues out of his mind, or will he pay for 'the sins of the son?'"


Sympathy For The Devil by the Rolling Stones plays across the speakers, and the Duxens stand in the ring as Gideon appears through the curtain. Dressed in black with flames across his chest, the black-haired champion is wearing the gold belt around his waist for the first time in a title defense. The black-lined eyes on his white painted face are fixed on the ring ahead of him, his black lips terse and unbetraying.

Jimmy leaves the ring as Gideon enters, while Old Man Duxen prepares for the bell. Gideon hands over the title belt to the referee, who raises it above his head to indicate the prize of this match. It is then trusted to the care of ringside attendants, and the match gets underway.

Champion and challenger lock up in the center of the ring, and Gideon applies a standing wristlock, which is reversed by the gray-haired Duxen. Still in the hold, Gideon backs his opponent against the ropes and tries to Irish whip his way out of it, but Duxen holds on, dragging to a halt with the wrist still in his grasp. Gideon rolls forward to ease the pressure and manages to reverse the hold, before yanking the arm to weaken the shoulder.

Throughout the early stages, Gideon pursues the technical method of wearing down his opponent, approaching the task with measure and deliberation. Old Man Duxen occasionally matches his grappling finesse, but relies more fundamentally on brawling and more jarring maneuvers.

At one point in the middle of the match, Duxen is against the ropes when Gideon charges at him. The silver-haired challenger backdrops the religious zealot out of the ring, leaving Gideon to hit the arena floor. Duxen intends to wait inside and rest for a moment, but takes leave of the squared circle when he spots his son approaching Gideon from behind. He confronts Jimmy, asking what he's doing, and his son denies any thoughts of getting involved.

Meanwhile, Gideon gets back to his feet and sees the perfect opportunity to attack the challenger from behind, and is about to take it when his gaze is suddenly caught by a female fan in the third row. Gideon stops still, apparently mesmerized by the pretty young woman. He seems to be silently fighting an internal conflict, trying to pull his attention away from her face as she looks on, innocently. The distraction allows Old Man Duxen to be the one to capitalize, clobbering the champion and rolling him back into the ring.

Towards the end of the contest, Gideon hoists the challenger up for the Razor's Edge he calls the Cleansing Fire, and in doing so, inadvertantly strikes the referee in the head with Duxen's foot. He successfully executes the move, but upon making the cover to no accompanying count, he realizes what has happened. He tries to revive the dozing official, shaking him on the mat, but looks back over his shoulder towards Old Man Duxen. Not wanting to let his opponent recover, Gideon climbs out to the apron and scales the turnbuckles, before leaping off the top rope with an elbowdrop. However, Jimmy Duxen, Jr, reaches into the ring under the bottom rope and quickly drags his prone father out of the incoming champion's path, leaving Gideon to crash and burn on the mat.

With the referee slowly coming around, Jimmy sneaks into the ring and drags his father's limp body on top of Gideon, and makes his exit without getting caught. The referee sees the cover and makes a groggy three-count, calling for the bell. Gideon kicks out immediately following the pinfall, but it's too late. The bell rings, and the HPW Championship has been awarded to Old Man Duxen.


Fairfax: "Wait a minute! No, this can't be right!"

Solomon: "What just happened?"

Like an excited kid on Christmas morning, Jimmy grabs the title belt and pulls his drowsy father from the ring. Helping him stand, the younger Duxen celebrates the new champion's victory, holding the belt up against his father's chest. The old man is confused, not entirely sure why his music is playing while they stand out on the arena floor. Behind them in the ring, Gideon is equally gobsmacked. He seems unable to take in what has just gone down, struggling to accept the ramifications.

Perhaps wisely, Jimmy hurries his father up the aisle and out of sight, while Gideon kneels in the center of the ring. The former champion is distraught, showing emotion that we've never seen on his pale, solomn face. He tilts his head skywards, full of uncertainty.

Fairfax: "The HPW Title... has changed hands. We have a new champion. But Doug..."

Solomon: "I know, I know... Don't say it."

Fairfax: "Well... From what is sure to be one of the most controversial nights in Headline Pro Wrestling: ladies and gentlemen, goodnight."

[The Headliner]

14) A Life Less Ordinary (February 2006)
     - by TheGopher

The scene is set at the St. Louis Police Department - more specifically, the office of Jimmy Duxen Jr. The young officer sits smugly with his feet propped on his desk, the receiver of the telephone is pressed firm against his face as he finishes up a conversation. On the desk there is a plaque reading “Deputy Duxen.” Jimmy hands up the receiver and greets the camera with a warm, but arrogant smile.

“Welcome to my office - I’ve been expecting you. Get comfortable, make yourself at home.”

Duxen straightens up his desk, he turns the picture frame around so it now faces the camera. The photograph depicts Jimmy and his father together, smiling bright. Duxen glances down and takes note of the picture, he shakes his head and carries on.

“This picture was taken only a year ago... as you can see, despite his life having “no direction,” my father seems happy enough. Which is why it is ludicrous to me that the man who made me thinks he needs this... wrestling, to fill the void in his heart.”

“Nevertheless, it became obvious to me that my father wouldn’t give up until he became the very best in the company, meaning he had to be the champion. He failed the first time around, getting eliminated in the gauntlet by Gideon. Last week, he succeeded - with the help of his loving son, that is.”

“You see kids, I decided to make my father’s dream come true. He rejected my first attempt, but by helping him pin the FORMER champion Gideon, I’ve allowed him to live the life he’s wanted for so long. However, what thanks do I get? He’s not contacted me all week long! It was the biggest night of his long life, and after he watched the tape of the match, he found out that he did not win fairly.”

“After shouting a string of obscenities, the old man left the arena and hasn’t called since. Now, I find out that this week he’s once again up against Gaz Dean, who happens to be a buddy of mine. He helped with my first plan, so it’s kind of hard to turn against him this week.”

“It’s a little different this time, the stakes are a lot higher. If my dad loses this match, perhaps it will all be over. Perhaps he’ll decide to come home, to make things normal again. He’ll be a hometown hero, and he’s made some money - it’s time to start thinking of retirement. Then again, on the other hand, if he loses - it may just push him to do better.”

“So, here’s what I am going to do - I am going to support him to the best of my abilities. However, when he does lose the heavyweight championship, which he eventually will, I will give him no choice but to come home! How, you ask?”

“...I guess you’ll just have to wait and see.”

Jimmy stands up and walks away... the camera zooms in on the picture of his father and himself, the picture is black and white and it’s undeniable that the Duxen family was happy at the time it was taken. The screen slowly fades to black as we’re left wondering what will become of the father, and his son.