THANKS FOR EVERYTHING

He’s unable to peel himself from the mat, even when his music hits, but he can hear Nick and Richard hollering.

He can, however, look to see Cancer lying on the mat. Right where he left him.

Again.

Surprised though, is he, as two arms reach under his own to peel him from the canvas. 

On one side, Nova, in those awkward pinstripes.

On the other, the Tower of Babel, who managed to run in amongst Madison’s raucous roars.

The Event Horizon forces a bloody smile. The announcements of Vince Howard warped in the background.

But it starts to come back to focus.

Suddenly on his feet, Hayes stands, arms around the broad shoulders of giants. Holding him up. Keeping him up. His vision clearing along with his hearing, noting that his theme music is blasting through the arena. 

Brandon Youngblood. The Diamond of the ReVival, holding him up on his left.

And Nova. The Risen Star. His hero. Holding him up on his right.

And a golden belt. The Universal Title, somehow slung over his shoulder.

No, don’t leave the ring yet, fellas.

Hayes reaches across his own chest, gripping the leather of his Universal Title belt with shaky fingers.

But still, manages to thrust it overhead.

Okay, we can go now.

Thanks for everything.