I know as a writer, I often ask for a lot, especially when it comes to FPV show reactions, or just in general some promoing standards. And usually the only time rosters are ever addressed as one, it's to a negative connotation - but this will be not one of those times.
I just wanted to say, with GR/PFP season coming up, and everyone starting to produce some of their best work, it's been absolutely a thrill to write for you guys. And it saddens me to a degree that the draft will jumble up the names I control - but that will help elevate you guys in some cases elsewhere. So for now, for these 3 months I still have control of you all... I wanted to give the roster some props. I'll address everyone individually - but even past that, as a collective group - I say it proudly that there is not one weak link on this roster. You are all active... do you know how crazy it is to have 22 people active at once on one brand? You give myself and Tyler a lot to handle on a weekly basis, in trying to keep everyone busy - but it's a GOOD problem to have.
I remember around November I had to create a thread about only about 3 guys out of about 15 promoing for a show one week... but now it's practically 90% of the roster on a weekly basis, and all things considered, that's about as perfect as it can get. The activity has been unreal and the true motivation to showcasing an appreciation thread - and I wanted everyone to know, that past the Ws and Ls, that everyone is worth my/Tyler's time writing wise. I know sometimes hard work gets undermined, or just not given the proper awareness - so I want to rectify that because legit I couldn't ask for more.
First off... Norman, Starr... you both have been catalysts for the brand for quite some time now. It starts at the top, and your guys' effort and promoing has been through the roof. I know SD roster doesn't have all that many "Established" names in comparison to the other brands, but I couldn't ask for a better mainevent scene. Norman has been the lights out promoer since I could remember, and Starr went rampage mode at Reckless Wiring. It's a shame only one can be world champion at one given time - but either way this brand begins and ends with you two.
Brian and Dub have been 2 of the top 5 promoers in EAW for the past 2 months now - and I'm glad you both are living up to your potential. Your promos are always a thrill to read, week in and week out. I'd say more but I dare not show any more favoritism. Great things, await.
AA and Ventura - you both have elevated yourselves to new heights that I did not think was possible. Your characters are definitely fun to write, but your work on the EAW Feed and Promo Page have really driven the arrogance and development of your characters home. Again, great things await. You both have solidified Showdown's mainevent scene into a strong figure six.
My AMAZING upper midcard division of Scott Oasis, Zach Genesis, Matt Miles, Clark Duncan, Stark, Venom, and Nick Angel. The first two, you two have been on the top of this food chain for awhile, and there's a reason for that. For both of your dedication and hard work is second to none in EAW. From Roommates and EliteCenter to always willing to write a match, while producing excellent promos - I applaud you.
Aaron, you have deserved much better than I have given you on Showdown thus far, but nonetheless you are a Spartan. You've always been one of the better young promoers EAW has - and your potential still doesn't have a ceiling to it.
Nick/Venom - you both somewhat recently came back, but your relentless work on the promo page and utter activity has helped not only elevate yourself, but Ventura as well. He needed something like that for the next step - and you two have helped him do that, while benefiting yourselves. A selfless act to be apart of the Holy Brigades, and serve as an actual tag team which is rare these days.
And of course... my personal favorite feud in EAW right now, Stark/Clark. Nigey, your character and promos have been unreal - and I DO think Stark is learning from you, because his promos continue to get better as well. I can't say too much in regards of praise to Clark/Nigey, because we all know he always had this skillset. But Stark, you've impressed me since day one, but you are continuing to improve. You've been a HUGE help behind the scenes, and I'm not sure anybody has realized that. Always willing to pick up a match or two - and doesn't complain when a loss comes your way for storyline reasons. You both rock - and I can say as your writer, GO GET O'HARA.
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But how about the NEW BLOOD on Showdown? Carlos Cruz... my main man. You've been dedicated since day one and I admire it. You continue to get better, I'll admit you were quite raw when I got you on Showdown. But I thought your two promos against Steele were ultimately your best so far. You didn't get the W - but hey, it happens. You have a bright future - and can only hope to see your development to further yourself.
Troy Archello and Daniel Marshall... let me say this. The four promos total you two have put forth so far, absolutely fantastic. If it was up to me, you two would win BEEF OF THE WEEK so far, for I am genuinely enjoying the quality you guys put forth. Marshall, you've come a long way in the promoing regard. I remember your first one you posted, you name dropped Stone Cold Steve Austin and I had a somewhat doubt. But you've been a trooper, waiting your turn after basically doing a month tour on the pre-show. But after what you've put forth this week - you won't have to worry about being potentially overlooked ever again.
And what can I say about Troy - this is the prospect I thought Showdown was getting all along. Imagine if you were here the whole time, your name would be up there with the likes of Genesis. Great stuff as always, and looking forward to what is coming your way in the future.
Murray/Eclipse - GREAT individual gimmicks from the both of you. I enjoy writing them, and hope to get the opportunity to do so more. I've had to somewhat put you guys on the backburner leading up to RW, just due to the fact that a lot of stuff was going on - but have no fear now. I'm looking forward to this Unsanctioned match, and see if it can elevate just one of you, or hopefully both.
Steele - we know your worth. We know all you do. It's only been a week - but I can already tell this is going to be a fun ride, which hopefully I can keep you motivated throughout.
MOPPETS - No matter how short the promos are - they're always worth the read. I know you've been busy so you get a pass from me in regards to activity, but it is my wish for the entire EAW roster to see your true ability, because simply put, you're the biggest diamond in the rough in the E-World.
J.D. Damon - again, someone who I've had for just one week. But your debut promos were unreal. Haven't seen you on since - but you've got some great talent.
But how could I forget about my boy El Landerson... THE BEST OF THE BEST. The most fun character to write bar none. I don't care who you are. You are the man.
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To those reading this and snickering somewhat, you can save it. The entire roster has honestly earned their praise. And I'm not kissing up or trying to motivate anyone further. Just a genuine appreciation thread, because otherwise it's usually negative. But I've never had this much fun writing - and considering the DEPTH of this roster, I have a little surprise for you guys after the Grand Rampage. I'm going to introduce a small tournament that will be a Showdown Roster Participation Exclusive. I'll go into details later - for now, you guys just focus on what you've been doing. Thanks again - Tyler and I have appreciated all the help and effort majorly. Props.