316-320

*Chapter 316: The Lone Champion*

After drinking too much the previous night, Richard didn’t wake up until ten the next morning. He pulled back the curtains, and the sunlight over Las Vegas was as bright and intense as ever.

He went to the bathroom and looked in the mirror. His face was still bruised, with a few more swollen spots on his chin and cheeks.

It had been a long time since he’d been hurt this badly—Tyson was a beast.

“The newspapers are here. It’s all about you,” said Gisele, who was doing yoga in front of the floor-to-ceiling window, dressed in tight workout clothes.

“Don’t overdo it. You don’t want to hurt your back,” Richard cautioned.

“I know!” Gisele replied with a smile.

Richard kissed her lightly and sat down to eat breakfast while flipping through the newspapers. Every major paper’s front page was covering last night’s fight, focusing on two main themes.

The first was Richard’s victory over Tyson, his third consecutive successful title defense, showcasing his dominance in the heavyweight division. The media was already declaring the dawn of the “Richard Era” in boxing. The articles also detailed the electric atmosphere of the event, noting the record-breaking audience numbers and the presence of numerous celebrities in the crowd. The fight itself was a major highlight, with both Richard and Tyson trading powerful blows in what was being hailed as an explosive and classic match.

The second theme revolved around Tyson’s condition.

Tyson had returned to peak form and fought at a very high level, but industry insiders were speculating that he may have used banned substances. The exact proof would have to wait for the test results to come in. Some papers even joked that even if Tyson had used performance-enhancing drugs, it still wasn’t enough to beat Richard—suggesting that Tyson’s era was truly over.

“Has Tyson woken up yet?” Richard asked as he called Andy.

“He’s awake, but I hear he’s completely exhausted and still can’t move from his bed,” Andy replied.

“Tyson’s tough. If he could get back to his 1988 form, I’m not sure I could beat him.”

Richard had given it his all last night and still couldn’t knock Tyson out with a single punch, a testament to Tyson’s incredible endurance. Tyson’s punches, with a force of 800 kilograms, were devastating.

Even after a full night’s sleep, Richard’s neck and jaw still ached.

If Tyson had used stronger or longer-lasting drugs, it would have been almost impossible for Richard to finish the fight within the first three rounds.

“Send him some flowers for me. If reporters ask about the drug use, there’s no need to criticize him. He’s getting older, and using something like that was probably his only option.”

Seeing Tyson fall didn’t bring Richard much joy. Everyone grows old eventually, and he knew the same would happen to him. He had defeated Tyson this time, but decades from now, he too would be overtaken by a new generation.

“Got it. There’s a press conference this afternoon, so you should get ready,” Andy reminded him.

“I know.”

In the afternoon, Richard attended a press conference at his hotel. Over a hundred media outlets were present. Some reporters asked about his feelings after defeating Tyson, others about the so-called “Richard Era.” Some even inquired about Tyson’s suspected drug use.

Richard remained humble, responding calmly and without arrogance. He was now the top man in boxing, both in fame and skill.

There was no need for him to make controversial statements to stay in the spotlight—quietly making money was the smarter move.

——

The aftermath of the fight lasted for a while.

First, Tyson’s drug test came back positive, confirming that he had used banned substances. The boxing association and the Nevada State Athletic Commission took action to penalize him.

Secondly, the fight itself was so intense, filled with heavy punches, extreme dodges, and a high level of technical skill.

Media coverage of the fight reached over a billion people worldwide. Some watched the event live on television, while many more streamed it online.

Within a week of the fight, there were over 6.5 million cable pay-per-view subscribers globally, and the video of the match was viewed over a billion times online, turning it into a phenomenon.

Boxing experts called it the most classic and thrilling fight in the last fifty years, with some even calling it a once-in-a-lifetime event. People joked that the only way to see something like it again would be if Tyson agreed to use drugs again.

Online, fans were passionately debating the fight—perhaps even more so than in person.

Some expressed nostalgia for Tyson, who had won 37 consecutive matches between 1985 and 1990, defeating many boxing legends and ushering in the “Tyson Era.” Tyson’s performance last night showed just how powerful he was at his peak, though it was sad to see his career decline.

Many others were praising Richard, giving him countless nicknames: the God of War, Superman, the Boxing King. In China, boxing fans had even nicknamed him “Dugu Qiubai,” meaning “the lone champion, undefeated.”

Richard thought that name was pretty fitting.

Fans on the internet even fantasized about Richard’s abilities, matching him up against all sorts of opponents, from legendary soldiers to WWE wrestlers, Shaolin monks, Lennox Lewis, both Klitschko brothers, Nikolai Valuev, David Tua, and even characters like Superman and Batman.

Even though the fight had just ended, fans were already eagerly anticipating his next one. No one in boxing could match his influence.

“How does it feel to be the strongest man in the world, brother-in-law?” Patria asked, petting a cat as she basked in the sun on the lawn.

“I’m not the strongest. Your sister is—I can’t beat her,” Richard replied, glancing at Gisele, who was relaxing on the sofa next to him.

“Gisele, are you really that strong?” Patria teased.

Gisele smiled gently, rubbing her slightly rounded belly. “The little one inside me is the strongest. Once this baby is born, even if they pee on his head, Richard wouldn’t dare fight back.”

“Ha! Richard would never hit them,” Patria laughed, placing a hand on her sister’s belly. “Sis, do you know if it’s a boy or a girl?”

“No, Richard wants it to be a surprise, so I didn’t ask the doctor.”

“What do you want, brother-in-law? A boy or a girl?” Patria asked.

“Either one. Boy or girl, they’ll both be my treasure,” Richard smiled, setting down his laptop and stretching. “Want to take a walk outside? Sitting for too long isn’t good for your health.”

“I don’t feel like it. I just want to sit here, soak up the sun, and maybe take a nap later,” Gisele laughed as she leaned back on the sofa.

“How about I carry you to sleep?” Richard playfully lifted Gisele, who was soft and a little plump—she felt wonderful in his arms.

“Stop messing around.”

“Ha! You two go ahead and have your fun—I’m not even here,” Patria laughed, turning her back to them and opening her laptop to play games.

After resting at home for a few days, Richard headed to Los Angeles. Sandra Bullock’s company was shooting a new movie, and Richard was there for a cameo as a police officer.

On May 13, X-Men 2 premiered, and Richard attended the opening. The movie, which had a $110 million budget, made a staggering $88.6 million in its opening weekend. Richard couldn’t help but admire 20th Century Fox’s distribution power—having News Corp as a backer gave them incredible reach.

“Hey, Richard, are you going to keep acting in movies?” Anthony dropped by to disturb Richard’s peace at his villa.

“Of course. If I don’t film The Bourne Supremacy, are you going to do it?” Richard sipped his tea.

“Ha! The papers say you made $60 million in 10 minutes—faster than a money printer! I was worried you might not care about movie paychecks anymore.”

Richard shook his head and glanced at him. “Are you trying to find more work for me?”

“You’re fully booked for this year, but next year’s wide open. I’ve got an amazing script here—huge potential for an Oscar Best Actor nod.”

Anthony chuckled, sliding the script over to him.

The script was titled The Aviator, based on the life of Hollywood playboy and entertainment mogul Howard Hughes.

The script and character were excellent.

“Will there be an audition?”

“Yes, a lot of people are after this role.”

“Alright, you handle it.”

——

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 317: If I Watch Another Movie with You, I'm a Pig*

"Richard, you want to play Howard Hughes?"

In the café, Michael Mann was surprised.

"Am I not suitable?"

Richard was puzzled. Michael Mann was the executive producer of The Aviator and the director of Collateral. Upon hearing that he was in charge of the project, Richard called him directly.

"Haha, Richard, think about who you are. Super boxing champion, global superstar, the youngest billionaire—Howard Hughes wasn’t as rich or famous as you at his peak. And you want to play him?"

Richard chuckled, "Howard Hughes was definitely richer than me. He was America’s first billionaire. A billion in the '30s and '40s was worth way more than 10 billion today."

"He was also an aviation tycoon, an aerospace engineer, a philanthropist, a playboy who dated 164 women, and the inspiration for Iron Man. His life was way more exciting than mine. After reading his biography, I admire him."

"Are you sure you want to play him? Your image, personality, and vibe all fit Howard Hughes. If you're willing, I have no objections."

Right now, Richard was incredibly popular. Studios were eager to work with him, and if Richard agreed, Warner Bros. would definitely welcome it.

"I want to give it a shot."

"Alright, do you have time this weekend? I've arranged to meet with Martin Scorsese to discuss the script."

"Thanks."

Richard clinked his glass and asked, "Mike, has Collateral been completed? When’s the release?"

"We originally planned for a summer release, but the summer is packed with blockbusters."

"Your Fast and Furious 2, Keanu Reeves’ The Matrix Reloaded, Schwarzenegger’s Terminator 3, Will Smith’s Bad Boys 2, Jim Carrey’s Bruce Almighty, Russell Crowe’s Master and Commander, and Disney’s big-budget Pirates of the Caribbean—haha, this summer's loaded with stars. It’s going to be a wild ride!"

Michael Mann laughed.

Richard smiled faintly. Every year, from May to September, Hollywood blockbusters dominate the American summer box office. This year seemed especially packed, with top-tier actors leading every film.

The summer movie season had just begun, and it already felt like a battle of the gods, with film promotions everywhere.

Just yesterday, the Los Angeles Times entertainment section ran a headline about the summer's stacked blockbuster season.

It said that the true test of box-office star power was about to begin. Who is the biggest box-office draw in Hollywood today? This summer season would determine the answer.

"Richard, I think I can win. Wanna bet?"

At the Matrix Reloaded premiere on May 23rd, Keanu Reeves, wearing sunglasses and a black suit, smirked cockily.

"What kind of bet?"

Richard adjusted his tie and smiled.

"Excluding animated films, let's see who has the highest box office. Eight top actors have movies coming out this summer. If The Matrix Reloaded tops the box office, I win. Otherwise, I lose. Heh, I’m that confident. You in?"

Keanu puffed out his chest, walking in a swaggering gait.

Resisting the urge to kick him, Richard asked, "What’s the bet?"

"If I win, you give me your signed WBA championship belt. If you win, I’ll give you my prized Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10. Deal?"

"Really?"

Johnny Depp perked up when he heard this. "You’re willing to give up that baby? Can I join?"

"You? Competing with me in box office? Pirates of the Caribbean has a big budget, but it’s only the first one and has no fan base. You’re definitely not my match."

Keanu scoffed.

"Let’s make a bet. Richard, are you in?"

Johnny Depp, full of enthusiasm, chimed in.

Richard looked at Keanu, then at Johnny. Based on the stats, Fast and Furious couldn’t beat The Matrix or Pirates of the Caribbean.

"How about we compare total annual box office instead?"

He had The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King coming out later in the year, and judging by the success of the first two films, the third one was going to be a box-office juggernaut.

"No way, just summer box office."

Keanu shot him a glance. He knew The Lord of the Rings was huge. He was a fan of the series himself, and since the first two films had both ranked second in yearly box office, the third one would be a major threat. He didn’t want to take that risk.

"Alright, summer box office it is. If you lose, hand over the bike. If I lose, you get the championship belt. Johnny, what are you putting up?"

Richard smiled.

"I've got a bottle of 60-year-old Cabernet Sauvignon. How about that?"

"OK, deal!"

Keanu extended his hand.

Smack!

The three men high-fived to seal the bet.

Richard and Johnny Depp exchanged a glance and turned to leave.

"Hey, where are you guys going?"

Keanu grabbed them.

"We’re competitors now. You want us to help promote your movie? You’ve gotta be crazy."

Richard shook him off.

"Exactly! I’d have to be on drugs to do something that dumb."

Johnny Depp patted Keanu’s hand.

"Haha, too late to run now. Come on, Richard, don't forget you're part of the cast too."

Keanu put his arms around both of them and dragged them inside.

"You three..."

Monica Bellucci walked over and, seeing the three of them with their arms around each other, gave them a playful look.

"Uh, don't get the wrong idea. We’re just messing around. Let’s go in together!"

Keanu pushed the other two toward the red carpet.

Click, click, click!

Hundreds of cameras flashed non-stop, capturing the four of them together.

This was a rare moment—Richard, Keanu, Johnny Depp, and the stunning Monica Bellucci all in one frame. It was a photographer's dream.

One photographer snapped over a dozen shots, only to realize he was out of film. He nearly cried as he shouted for them not to leave.

"Can we go now?"

Richard, standing on the red carpet, muttered through clenched teeth.

"Relax, a few more photos won't kill you."

Keanu grinned broadly.

"I hate these flashes. If I’d known, I wouldn’t have come."

Johnny Depp whispered.

"Don’t worry, it’ll be over soon."

Keanu kept up his big smile.

"Can you take off the sunglasses when you say that?"

Richard said with a forced smile.

"Nope, they're part of my look."

Keanu adjusted his shades, smiling even wider.

"You guys are too much."

Monica Bellucci stood between Richard and Keanu, barely able to hold back her laughter.

"Let’s go; I’m going blind."

Richard started walking forward.

"Wait, there's an interview section."

Keanu pushed him back into place. They were about to face the reporters.

"Mr. Reeves, can you predict the box office for The Matrix Reloaded?"

A Los Angeles Times reporter shouted.

"It won’t be less than the first one. North American box office will be at least 300 million."

Keanu bragged confidently.

"Mr. Brad, this summer's box office competition is fierce. Who do you think will come out on top?"

An ABA reporter held out a microphone.

Richard smirked, putting his arms around Keanu and Johnny’s shoulders. "Both Fast and Furious 2 and Pirates of the Caribbean are great films. I recommend checking them out once they're released."

"Mr. Depp, who do you think will win?"

A reporter asked.

"Yep, Pirates of the Caribbean and Fast and Furious 2 are great. I recommend everyone watch them."

Johnny Depp said.

"You guys are too much. This is the premiere of The Matrix Reloaded!"

Keanu muttered quietly.

"Hehe..."

After the interviews, the four of them walked off the red carpet.

"Keanu, Johnny, Fast and Furious 2 premieres on the 6th. Make sure to be there for me."

Richard said.

"Sorry, no time."

Keanu walked into the theater with a straight face.

"Richard, I’m busy too."

Johnny Depp grinned and followed Keanu.

"Those two jerks."

Richard flipped them off.

"Come on, don’t get caught on camera."

Monica Bellucci walked over in her high heels, wearing a stunning silver body-hugging dress that accentuated her curves.

"It’s fine. I’m not exactly a squeaky-clean idol."

Richard laughed.

They went into the theater to watch the movie. Keanu, dressed in a black suit and sunglasses, speeding through the streets on his Ducati 998 motorcycle, did look really cool.

But during the movie, he kept saying things like, "Isn’t this cool?" "So cool, right?" "Man, how can I be this cool?"

----

Richard watched with little interest. If Monica hadn’t been holding his hand and placing it on her thigh, he would have left long ago.

Clap clap clap

The movie ended, and the theater erupted in applause, showing that the audience was quite pleased.

"See? I totally won,"

Levi said smugly.

Johnny Depp shook his head, "I swear, if I watch another movie with you, I’m a pig."

"Me too!"

Richard said, his face dark.

"Hmph, you guys are just jealous,"

Levi said arrogantly.

After the movie, Levi suggested going for drinks, but Richard and Depp were already fed up with him, so of course, they didn’t go. They parted ways as soon as they stepped out of the theater.

"Those two jerks!"

Levi flipped them the finger.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 318: "You Don't Think I'm Too Old?"

Huff, huff~

At night, the moon slowly rose, and the sky outside the window transitioned from dusk to deep night. A warm breeze blew in, causing the curtains to sway and flutter.

"I saw Keanu give you the finger this afternoon. Sometimes, you two look so much alike," Monica laughed, lying on her pillow.

"That guy likes to pretend to be cool, but I'm the real deal," Richard chuckled.

"Yes, you're very cool, super cool," Monica said as her fingers traced his abs. "Your body is beautiful—better than any sculpture in a museum. It's like a living piece of art. Richard, you should do a photoshoot, or an indie film. A body like this deserves to be captured, to let everyone see it."

"I’ve done boxing training videos," Richard responded. He had filmed three in total, one each year from 2000 to 2002, selling 36 million copies, earning over $100 million.

"I know. I bought the collector’s edition, but you only showed your upper body. If you revealed more, you’d sell billions," Monica laughed.

"Forget it, I’m a bit shy."

"I don’t believe that," Monica pointed at the floor-to-ceiling windows, where faint sweat marks could be seen. "We’re downtown, and you weren’t worried about being seen just now."

"I’m selectively shy," Richard grinned, getting out of bed to pour two glasses of red wine, handing her one.

"Are you planning to break into Hollywood?"

"I’m thinking about it, but competition is fierce here. The most beautiful women in the world flock to Hollywood, and it’s hard to stand out," Monica said, wrapping herself in a blanket, sitting up slowly, exuding allure.

Richard leaned against the window, admiring her. "There can't be a more attractive woman than you," he said, smiling.

"Really? You don’t think I’m too old?" Monica leaned against the wall, smiling.

Richard shook his head. At 39, she wasn’t old. "That’s what makes you even more attractive."

"Thank you," Monica covered her chest with a playful smile. "Thank you for still liking me. Meeting you has been the greatest adventure of my life."

Richard smiled, raising his glass. "If you ever need help, you can come to me. We can be friends."

"I wish I had met you sooner."

"It’s not too late now. Want some more?" Richard swirled his wine glass.

"Yes!"

—

The next day, Richard woke up around eight to the smell of pan-seared pepper steak—an enticing aroma. Tired from the night before, he was feeling hungry. He put on a t-shirt and shorts and walked out of the bedroom to find Monica making breakfast in the kitchen, her curly hair down, wearing a floral apron that accentuated her hourglass figure.

She hummed a tune as she skillfully flipped the food in the pan, even more charming than the night before.

"You're up," Monica turned to smile at him, her lips curling. "I saw there was a kitchen here, so I went to the store and bought some groceries. Want to try?"

"Is it as delicious as you?" Richard laughed.

"Of course, just like me—delicious."

"Then I can’t miss it," Richard kissed her, then went to wash up. When he came back, Monica had already set the table with food and poured two cups of hot milk.

"This is really good. Do you cook often?" Richard asked, drying his hair as he sat down.

"Not really. The servants usually do, but try this vegetable soup. It’s my specialty," Monica replied, brushing her hair back as she sat down.

Richard tasted the soup—it had an Italian flavor, and it was excellent.

"Do you like it here?" he asked.

"What do you mean?"

Monica cut a piece of chicken and cheese lasagna for him.

"Here," Richard gestured around the apartment. It was in downtown Fairstone Avenue, one of the properties he owned. Every year, when he didn’t spend all his earnings, he bought more real estate, now owning fourteen properties, including villas, luxury apartments, estates, and wineries.

"It’s nice. The environment’s great."

"I’m glad you like it. This apartment is yours now."

"Mine?" Monica rested her cheek on her hand with a flirtatious smile. "Are you planning to keep me?"

Richard smiled. "Keeping someone requires commitment. I don’t have that much time. I just thought you looked perfect here when I saw you cooking."

"Will you come back here to eat my cooking in the future?" Monica asked, looking at him.

"As long as I’m welcome."

"Then I’ll take it."

"Great!" Richard called his lawyer to handle the details.

After breakfast, he returned to his hillside villa. Though he had two more extravagant properties in Marbury and downtown, he didn’t want to move. He was too used to this place.

Back at the villa, Richard changed into workout gear and continued training. Today’s routine was intense: four sets of squats with a 500-pound barbell, 200 reps per set, to work on his explosive power in the waist and legs; an hour of jump rope with a 150-pound weight to improve ankle flexibility and strength; and ring exercises to enhance shoulder flexibility.

Before becoming a champion, his training methods were more rough and basic. Now, with a fitness team that regularly checked his progress and gave suggestions, his workouts had become more precise and scientific.

Of course, Richard didn’t follow every suggestion from his fitness and training consultants. When it came to training, no one knew his body better than he did. Their advice was just a reference.

After three hours of training, drenched in sweat, Richard took a shower and then a nap, waking up feeling refreshed.

"Richard, Mr. Michael Mann called half an hour ago," said Ms. Fatina.

"Okay."

Richard returned to the living room, picked up his phone, and called back.

"Hey, Michael, what’s up? Weinstein?"

Michael Mann explained that at a producers' meeting, he suggested Richard for the lead role, but two producers, the Weinstein brothers, opposed it.

"Isn’t 'The Aviator' a Warner Bros. project? Why are the Weinsteins involved? Alright, if Warner is partnering with them, I’ll withdraw. I didn’t know Miramax was a co-producer. That’s my mistake."

After chatting a bit, Richard hung up, his face darkening. He immediately called Anthony, furiously scolding him for not clarifying the producers before sending over the script.

"Richard, I swear, when I checked, Miramax wasn’t involved. They joined in the last couple of days. I called you twice last night, but you didn’t pick up. Check your emails if you don’t believe me."

Richard checked his computer and found Anthony’s emails.

"Haha, alright, my bad. I apologize. I’ll buy you a drink to make it up."

"Hmph, I don’t want a drink. If you really feel bad, take on a few more roles."

"Get lost. Don’t push your luck."

Richard laughed, "Contact Warner Bros. and let them know I’m interested in the role. If they’re open to working with me, we can replace Miramax with New Line as the producer."

"Alright, I’ll reach out as soon as I can. Hope your phone doesn’t break again."

"Quit the jokes. I’m about to have lunch. Don’t forget to eat too."

After hanging up, the servants brought out a lavish lunch. There were two chefs in the house, one specializing in French cuisine, the other in Chinese. If he ever craved something else, Richard could always order from the restaurants down the hill.

Since he trained every day and burned a lot of calories, Richard had a big appetite.

While eating, he thought about Mrs. Bündchen, so he gave her a call to chat about work and her health, with Patricia chiming in from the side.

Looking at the spread on the table, he thought it would be more enjoyable to share it with Bündchen and the others, but with the premiere of Fast & Furious 2 approaching, there was still a lot of work to be done.

—

(Chapter end)

*Chapter 319: You Guys Are Such Pigs*

“Hahahahahahahaha~”

The next day, while he was out promoting a movie, Richard received a call from Keanu Reeves. As soon as he picked up, there was a burst of laughter on the other end, making Richard wipe the cold sweat from his forehead.

“Keanu, have you lost your mind?”

“Haha, Richard, guess how much the opening box office for The Matrix was?” Without waiting for a reply, Reeves added, “Just take a wild guess! I guarantee it’ll exceed your expectations.”

Richard smirked, thinking he was crazy.

“One hundred million?”

“Uh, close—$93.77 million! Hahaha, isn’t that high?”

“Not bad, it’s even higher than X-Men.”

In early May, X-Men 2 debuted with a box office of $86.55 million. Just two weeks later, The Matrix Reloaded brought in over $90 million on its opening weekend. The summer box office in North America was on fire, hitting a new peak.

Richard looked anxiously at the poster for 2 Fast 2 Furious. He had no idea how much it would earn.

If it performed poorly, it would be a real embarrassment. After all, the entertainment industry was in a period of intense competition, with top stars fighting for dominance. A bad performance at a time like this would be awkward, especially for a major star.

“Haha, Richard, I think I’ve already won. Just based on the opening box office, I can crush a lot of people. But don’t stress, Richard, you’re still young. You’ll have plenty of opportunities in the future.”

“Get lost! I heard Jim Carrey and Jennifer Aniston’s Bruce Almighty is hitting theaters next week. You should focus on promoting your movie, or you might get knocked out by Bruce Almighty.”

“Haha, don’t worry, I’ll still be the box office champ next week.”

“Alright, good luck.”

Not wanting to waste more time, Richard hung up and walked into the recording studio.

“Hey, Richard, are you nervous?”

Paul Walker asked.

“Nervous about what?”

“The box office! This summer’s competition is insane. Aren’t you worried about 2 Fast 2 Furious?”

“No, not worried. We’re a team, and with you guys around, I’m not stressed at all.”

Richard greeted Katie Holmes, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, and director John Singleton.

Once everyone was there, the interview started.

During movie promotions before release, the conversation usually centers around topics that will spark interest from the audience—like the challenges during filming, funny moments on set, the relationships between the actors, and of course, personal questions, which hosts love to bring up.

“Mr. Brad, a while ago, you had an epic fight with Tyson. Professional magazines called it the boxing match of the decade. Will there be a rematch?”

The host asked, shifting the conversation.

Richard didn’t shy away from the question, knowing that these off-topic conversations could also attract fans' attention. For example, he could say that he was negotiating with Tyson’s management, and if they came to an agreement, they’d announce it to the fans.

Once the interview aired, that clip would be picked up by media outlets, reporting that Richard had hinted at a rematch during the 2 Fast 2 Furious promotional interview, saying it could very well happen.

This kind of news excited boxing fans, while also promoting the new movie. There’s a lot of overlap between boxing and movie fans, so it could bring in support from both sides.

Thinking it over, Richard said, “Probably not. I spoke to Tyson a few days ago, and he’s considering retiring from boxing.”

“Really?”

The host was thrilled. This was a big scoop.

“That’s what he said.”

Richard replied.

“Mr. Brad, many media outlets have been using the term ‘The Richard Era.’ What do you think of that?”

The host asked.

“My opinion doesn’t matter. Whether it’s the Ali Era, the Tyson Era, or the Richard Era, it all has to be recognized by boxing fans, the media, and fellow fighters.

Saying it’s the ‘Richard Era’ now is too early. ‘The ___ Era’ should be a conclusion, not a prediction. Maybe in ten or more years, it’ll be appropriate to bring that up. After all, we’re living in a time of rapid change.”

Richard said thoughtfully.

After gathering a bunch of material from him, the host turned to the rest of the cast—Paul Walker, Katie Holmes, Michelle Rodriguez, and director John Singleton. Like a diligent miner, the host kept digging for more nuggets of content from the celebrities.

After two weeks of promotion, on June 6, 2 Fast 2 Furious was released across the U.S.

The North American box office was intensely competitive. X-Men 2 had earned almost $200 million in four weeks, The Matrix Reloaded $162 million in two weeks, Bruce Almighty $67.95 million in one week, and Disney’s Finding Nemo hit $130 million in its first week.

The top four films were still performing strongly, and now 2 Fast 2 Furious was entering the fray, which made it a risky move.

Films like The In-Laws, Down with Love, and Wrong Turn, which had premiered two weeks earlier, were crushed by these blockbusters and failed to reach even $5 million at the box office.

Now with 2 Fast 2 Furious joining the race, the competition would only get fiercer.

“Hey Richard, why do you seem a bit tense?”

At the premiere, before stepping onto the red carpet, Keanu Reeves and Johnny Depp arrived together.

“Why are you guys here?”

Richard laughed.

“We couldn’t miss it. I didn’t want to get beat up for skipping out,”

Reeves adjusted his bowtie.

“I just came to hang out.”

Johnny Depp shrugged.

“Haha, welcome!”

Richard shook hands with them both, introduced them to Paul Walker, Katie Holmes, Michelle, and the others, and they all walked into the theater together.

“Richard, what’s your guess for the opening box office of 2 Fast 2 Furious?”

Reeves asked with a smile.

“It’s hard to predict. The Matrix is still going strong, and both Finding Nemo and Bruce Almighty have solid box office and reviews. Based on the pre-sale numbers, I’d say around $50 million.”

Compared to the over 4,000 theater releases of The Matrix, Finding Nemo, and Bruce Almighty, 2 Fast 2 Furious was only showing in 3,651 theaters—a smaller scale. Plus, its subject matter appealed more to younger audiences, so Richard kept his estimate conservative.

“$50 million? Haha, that’s half of my opening box office, but not bad.”

Reeves teased.

Richard shot him a glare. “You’re just asking to get punched, aren’t you?”

“If I were as strong as you, I’d have already decked him. He’s been calling me nonstop, gloating about The Matrix’s box office and laughing like an idiot.”

Depp said, shaking his head.

“He called me too.”

“Haha, of course! Good news is meant to be shared, that’s what friends are for.”

Reeves said, patting their shoulders as he found his seat.

Richard shook his head. This guy was getting more ridiculous by the day.

The premiere took place at the Aurora Cinema, where 1,200 seats were packed with media, critics, and fans.

As both lead actor and producer, Richard took the stage, said a few brief words, and the film began.

2 Fast 2 Furious followed the same high-octane style of the first film—tense, thrilling scenes, powerful modified cars, and blazing fast street races. The cast’s fiery performances and cutting-edge cinematic techniques were just as engaging.

But this sequel had some upgrades, like more intense fight scenes. In the first movie, there were fewer fight scenes, but 2 Fast 2 Furious added several breathtaking action sequences—on fast-moving cars, trucks, and even yachts—making the already thrilling plot even more exciting.

The final scene, where Richard drives an off-road vehicle carrying a ticking bomb, breaks through layers of obstacles, and launches off a bridge just as the bomb explodes, had the whole theater on the edge of their seats.

“That was pretty intense, really good.”

Depp said.

“Yeah, the scale’s bigger than the first one.”

Reeves nodded.

“Well, the budget was higher for the sequel.”

Clap, clap, clap~

As the movie ended, the audience rose to their feet and applauded.

“Haha, Richard, Johnny, do you remember something?”

Reeves clapped with a mischievous smile.

“Remember what?”

“Last time, you guys said if we ever watched a movie together again, we’d be pigs. Hahaha, you’re both pigs!”

Reeves burst out laughing.

“Childish!”

Richard and Depp both flipped him off.

The premiere ended, and now all they had to do was wait for the box office results.

---

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 320: Making Moves with Strength*

Morning sunlight bathed the surroundings.

In Beverly Hills, on the tree-lined road outside Ms. Theron's villa, Richard and Theron were jogging side by side in matching white tracksuits, towels draped over their shoulders.

Both had long, lean figures, their strides perfectly synchronized.

After running over ten laps, Ms. Theron began to breathe heavily. Richard slowed down.

"That’s enough," he said.

Ms. Theron stopped to wipe the sweat from her forehead.

Richard smiled, “Sharlie, you’re getting back in shape faster than ever. I almost miss when you weighed 180 pounds.”

Theron rolled her eyes at him, “Do you like bigger girls? If you’re into that, I could summon dozens of them for you—200 pounds, 300 pounds, even 500-pounders, all in different shades. They’d smother you with all that extra flesh.”

“Enough already. It’s too early for greasy topics like that. Are you planning to have breakfast alone now?” Richard waved her off.

“Heh, you were just saying you liked big girls, but now you can’t even handle a little imagination. Typical.” Ms. Theron smirked as she wiped the sweat from her brow.

“Big or small, as long as it’s you, you’ll always be beautiful to me.” Richard wrapped his arm around her slim waist and kissed her.

“Get off,” she said, giving him a playful push. “The opening box office numbers are coming out soon. Nervous?”

“Not really. ‘Fast & Furious 2’ is better quality than the first one, and I’ve got way more box office pull than I did back in 2001. Even with the summer competition, this movie’s not going to flop.”

Richard squeezed her hand as they walked.

“You’re getting so cocky,” she teased, bumping his shoulder.

“This is confidence. As someone who earns $6 million a minute, I’m entitled to it.”

“Oh please, so you made $60 million in ten minutes. Big deal,” she said, rolling her eyes with a mocking smile.

Richard laughed, “People always praise me, call me a human money machine, and I just brush it off like it’s no big deal, even though inside I’m thrilled. But I stay humble so I don’t come off arrogant. Only at home, with you, can I talk big and it feels amazing.”

“So you want me to compliment you?” she asked with a sly smile.

“Yes, you barely ever praise me. Except for certain moments when you lose your mind and can’t help but scream, ‘Oh my God, you’re amazing, I love you!’”

“Shut up!” she yelled, her face flushed, giving him a few playful punches. “You have no shame.”

Richard chuckled, catching her fists. “Babe, you don’t know how irresistible you are in those moments.”

“Idiot! Stop talking!” Ms. Theron glared at him with her blue eyes, both embarrassed and angry.

“Okay, okay. I’ll stop.” Richard smiled softly, holding her hand as they walked back into the villa.

——

After breakfast, Richard headed to the gym at Fist Bar for training. By noon, Anna arrived with the box office numbers for Fast & Furious 2.

The film raked in $68.19 million on its opening weekend, far surpassing the estimated $50 million.

As X-Men 2 finished its run, Fast & Furious 2, The Matrix Reloaded, Finding Nemo, and Bruce Almighty were in a fierce battle, claiming 90% of the market’s box office. Competition was heating up, according to media reports.

With Fast & Furious 2 outperforming expectations, the studio increased its promotional efforts. Richard and director Singleton led a tour, promoting the film and engaging with the media and fans, doing everything they could to boost the movie’s success.

Richard had a serious stake in this—thanks to his profit-sharing deal with Universal, he was set to earn 5% of the North American box office. So, he was all-in on the promotion.

While promoting in Detroit, the Motor City, Richard made headlines by lifting a Cadillac lightweight sports car weighing 626 kilograms (about 1,380 pounds) with his bare hands.

The crew was at the Cadillac plant for the promotion, checking out the new model. When Richard heard the designers mention that the latest car weighed just over 600 kilograms, he impulsively decided to see if he could lift it.

Instead of lifting it over his head, he propped it up on beams and walked a few steps while holding it.

It didn’t seem all that heavy.

Afterward, a TV crew researched it and discovered that Richard had inadvertently broken the world record for weightlifting.

The previous record was held by Polish strongman Mariusz Pudzianowski, who walked ten steps while carrying a 559-kilogram (about 1,232 pounds) weight, earning the title of the world’s strongest man.

But Richard, walking several steps with a 626-kilogram car, was like a superhero from the movies.

This story blew up. ABC News featured the video on their evening broadcast, and soon every major outlet picked it up. Richard had accidentally sparked a media frenzy.

Many were in awe of his strength, while others were skeptical, wondering if it was just for show, since no official weightlifting authorities were present to verify the feat.

Afterwards, Ms. Bündchen scolded him, forbidding him from pulling any more stunts like that. She even threatened to try lifting a car herself.

Richard, terrified at the thought, turned down requests for a repeat performance, which only fueled further debate.

Strongmen worldwide began voicing their doubts, arguing that Richard was built more for strength, not bulk, and couldn’t possibly lift something so heavy.

Meanwhile, Richard’s fans and supporters stood firm, believing there was no reason for him to fake it.

After all, Richard wore many hats—megastar, boxing champion, global youth icon, billionaire, top agent, urban hero, philanthropist—each shining brightly. There was no need for him to add "strongman" to his list of titles.

As a heavyweight boxer, Richard’s punching power, while undisclosed, had knocked out Mike Tyson, whose punch weighed over 800 kilograms. Clearly, Richard wasn’t lacking in strength.

Experts soon weighed in, noting that punching and weightlifting are entirely different skills, with distinct techniques and power focuses.

Boxing fans argued back, citing numerous stats in heated online debates with the experts.

As the discussions raged on, news of the event spread even further, driving massive publicity. In the process, Fast & Furious 2 continued to be mentioned.

After its first week, Fast & Furious 2 grossed $92.18 million, surpassing Bruce Almighty’s second-week total of $62.45 million and Finding Nemo’s $65.09 million, securing the top spot at the box office. The Matrix Reloaded, in its third week, brought in $51.94 million, knocking it out of the top three.

“Richard, is this really necessary? You’re working pretty hard for box office numbers,” teased Keanu Reeves on the phone.

Richard chuckled, “It was all an accident. I saw the car, it looked light, I gave it a lift, and—boom! Next thing I know, the TV crew thinks it’s cool and puts it on the news. I had no idea it’d blow up like this. Total coincidence.”

“Ha! Do you think I believe that? You’ve always got some big move when promoting a movie. First, you did a 360-degree arm twist, then a mid-air kick, now lifting a car? You’ve got more tricks than a circus.”

Keanu laughed.

“Hey, Keanu, don’t be salty,” Ms. Theron chimed in, laughing into the phone. “Richard’s just making moves with skill. If you’re jealous, why don’t you lift one yourself?”

“Sharlie? Come on, we’re friends, right? You can’t just side with him,” Keanu complained.

“I can, and I will!” she laughed.

“Alright, alright, you two are impossible,” Keanu said, hanging up in frustration.

“What did he mean by that?” Ms. Theron asked, puzzled.

“He was complimenting us,” Richard said with a grin.

After wrapping up the promotional tour, Richard returned to L.A. The bulk of Fast & Furious 2’s promotion was done, so Richard shifted his focus to a new role in The Aviator. He saw it as a potential Oscar contender and wanted to give it a shot.

“Anthony, how are talks going with The Aviator?” Richard asked over the phone.

“Not great. Warner Bros. confirmed they’re working with Miramax on the project, and they say the deal was set in stone a while ago. But Warner’s head producer, Adam Pritz, wants to have a drink with you to discuss things in person.”

“Discuss what?”

“He didn’t say, but I imagine he wants to smooth things over. You’re a cash cow in this industry now. Even if they can’t work with you, they don’t want to upset you.”

“They won’t,” Richard said, glancing at his schedule. “I’m free tomorrow afternoon. Set it up.”

“Will do!”

——

(End of chapter)