Becoming A Wrestler

Chapter 172: 163. WhatsApp Founders Looking For Investment



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Jan stepped forward this time, his hands clasped nervously. "We've been trying to get in touch with investors, and when we heard about this event, we knew it would be a great chance. We didn't want to interrupt anything earlier, but we wanted to share an idea we've been working on. It's a messaging app for the iPhone."

Sandro's brows furrowed slightly. "A messaging app?"

Jan nodded earnestly. "Yes. After I got an iPhone, I realized the potential of apps that could connect people in a simple, efficient way. Our idea is to create an app that allows users to send messages without the need for usernames or friend requests. It would work using phone numbers and would be free from ads. We're calling it WhatsApp."

Sandro's polite expression shifted as recognition dawned. Brian Acton? Jan Koum? WhatsApp? His mind reeled as he tried to process the coincidence. These were the names he remembered from his past life, two of the most influential tech entrepreneurs who would go on to revolutionize communication with WhatsApp.

In his past life, the app had become a global phenomenon, eventually acquired by Facebook for billions of dollars.

For a moment, Sandro struggled to mask his surprise. He quickly composed himself, his curiosity now genuine. "That sounds interesting," he said, leaning casually against the wall. "Can you tell me more about how it works?"

Brian, sensing Sandro's interest, jumped in eagerly. "The key idea is simplicity. People should be able to install the app, connect it to their phone number, and immediately see which of their contacts are also using it. No gimmicks, no ads, just seamless communication. We're focusing on text messages at first, but we want to expand to include voice calls, voice messages, images, and eventually even video."

Jan added, "Privacy is another cornerstone. Messages would be stored on users' devices, not on a server. It's about giving people a tool that's reliable, fast, and respects their data."

Sandro nodded, processing their explanation. Their enthusiasm was palpable, and it was clear they had thought deeply about the app's functionality. "It's an ambitious project," he said thoughtfully. "Have you started development yet?"

Jan hesitated. "We've made some progress, but we need funding to take it to the next level. Right now, we're coding from a small office, but we believe in this idea. We know it can work."

Sandro glanced at the pair, their determination reminding him of his own drive in wrestling. He admired their grit and vision, especially knowing what their idea could eventually become. "Alright," he said, his tone steady. "Let me ask you this though, why approach me? My father's the one with the connections and resources."

Brian smiled sheepishly. "We figured if we could get you to understand our vision, you might put in a good word for us. We've heard from the conversation inside the party the size of how involved you are with Nexum Core, and you seem like someone who understands innovation."

Sandro couldn't help but chuckle. "Fair point. Alright, I'll tell you what, I'll bring this up to my father. But in return, I need something from you."

The duo exchanged a quick glance, intrigued. "Anything," Jan said.

"Send me everything you have, your pitch deck, prototypes, business plan, anything that can help me make your case. If I can convince my father that this is worth exploring, he'll take it seriously."

Brian nodded immediately. "Of course. We'll get everything to you by tomorrow."

Sandro extended his hand, his grin genuine. "Deal. I'll see what I can do."

As he shook hands with both men, he felt a flicker of excitement. This encounter was unexpected, but it felt like a pivotal moment, one of those serendipitous twists that could lead to something monumental. As Brian and Jan walked away, their gratitude evident, Sandro took a deep breath, his mind already racing with possibilities.

When he returned to the ballroom, his parents were engaged in a lively conversation with another group of guests. Sandro waited for a lull before approaching his father. "Dad, I need to talk to you about something. It's important."

Jack glanced at his son, noting the serious tone. "Alright. Let's step aside."

The two moved to a quieter corner of the room, and Sandro relayed the encounter, detailing Brian and Jan's pitch and his belief in their vision. Jack listened intently, his expression thoughtful as Sandro wrapped up. "I think this could be huge, Dad. They have the passion and the idea, it just needs the right backing."

Jack nodded slowly. "If what they're saying is true, it does sound promising. Send me whatever they give you, and I'll review it. But remember, Sandro, part of investing is taking the calculated risks involved. Are you ready to vouch for this?"

Sandro met his father's gaze, his resolve clear. "I am."

Jack smiled faintly, clapping his son on the shoulder. "Alright, let's see where this takes us."

As they returned to the party, Sandro felt a surge of excitement and responsibility. This was more than just a chance encounter, it was an opportunity to hold the most messaging app in the world from his past life to be his own and control more of the social media industry, and he was determined not to let it slip through his fingers.

As the party wound down around 10 PM, the atmosphere in the grand ballroom softened. Guests, satisfied with their networking and connections, began making their way out. Deals had been struck, ideas exchanged, and opportunities seized.

Jack stood near the exit, shaking hands and bidding farewell to the remaining attendees, his face glowing with satisfaction. Taylor, ever the gracious hostess, exchanged pleasantries with a few lingering guests, ensuring that everyone felt appreciated.

Sandro observed the scene from a quiet corner, marveling at his parents' effortless charisma. He knew they had pulled off something significant tonight. Nexum Core's reputation as a hub of innovation and opportunity had only grown stronger, and the family's connections had deepened.

When most of the guests had left, Jack leaned in close to Taylor, speaking in a low voice. "The government representative from Florida? That was a critical conversation. Our 'donation' will speed up several regulatory processes. This could open doors for Nexum Core, maybe even a direct audience with the governor."

Taylor smiled knowingly. "You handled it perfectly, as always. This event wasn't just about the show; it's going to pay off in real terms."

Jack nodded, his sharp eyes scanning the room one last time. "Let's make sure the cleanup is underway. Then we can call it a night."

The family moved to the lobby, where Jack's Rolls Royce waited. The driver, a seasoned professional, opened the door with a respectful nod. Sandro slid into the back seat, followed by Taylor and Jack.

The ride home was quiet, the hum of the engine filling the space as each of them reflected on the evening. For Sandro, the unexpected encounter with Jan Koum and Brian Acton lingered in his mind. He could feel the weight of what lay ahead and the immense potential of their idea.

The soft light of dawn filtered through Sandro's window as he stirred awake. His internal clock, honed through his early training and matches, ensured he was up before most of the household.

Stretching briefly, he changed into his workout gear, simple black shorts and a gray tank top, and headed downstairs. Along the way, he greeted the staff he encountered with a warm smile and a cheerful "Good morning." Their appreciative nods reminded him of the importance of treating everyone with respect.

Stepping outside, the cool morning air greeted him as he began his run. The neighborhood was quiet, save for the chirping of birds and the occasional rustle of leaves. Sandro loved this time of day, it gave him clarity and focus, a chance to clear his mind before diving into the demands of his growing responsibilities.

After an hour and a half of steady running, Sandro returned home, sweat glistening on his skin. He greeted a few more staff members as he entered the house, making his way to his room. After a quick but refreshing shower, he felt rejuvenated and ready to tackle the day. Pulling on a casual T-shirt and jeans, he settled at his desk, powered on his computer, and opened his email.

As his inbox loaded, his eyes immediately caught the subject line from Jan Koum, "WhatsApp Proposal Materials". Clicking on it, he found a well-organized set of attachments: the pitch deck, detailed business plans, projected growth models, and a prototype of the app itself.

Curious and excited, Sandro opened the pitch deck first. The slides were simple but effective, outlining their vision for WhatsApp where to create a seamless, ad-free messaging platform designed for instant communication. The potential for global scalability was clear, and their commitment to user privacy stood out as a bold and commendable decision.

Next, he moved to the business plan. Jan and Brian had meticulously outlined their projected expenses, revenue streams, and timelines. They anticipated slow adoption at first but predicted exponential growth within five years, particularly in markets where SMS costs were prohibitive.

Finally, Sandro downloaded the prototype to his computer and launched it. The interface was basic but functional, with a clean design that prioritized usability. He tested the app by sending a few mock messages to himself, marveling at how intuitive it felt even in its early stages, reminding him of the WhatsApp he had used in his past life even though it was still in its infancy currently right now.

Leaning back in his chair, Sandro let out a low whistle. These guys are onto something big. He could see the potential, not just from his knowledge of the future, but from the strength of their pitch and the clarity of their vision. This wasn't just a gamble, it was an opportunity with a high chance of payoff.

Around mid-morning, Sandro found his father in the study, reading through some reports. Jack looked up as his son entered, setting his papers aside. "What's on your mind?" he asked, his tone inviting.

Sandro placed several papers that he had printed out on the desk which were the materials from Jan and Brian. "I got their pitch," he said, gesturing to the documents. "Take a look. And also I had emailed you the prototype they had created"

Jack took the papers and began to read them, his sharp eyes scanning the pitch deck and business plan. Sandro explained key points, emphasizing the app's simplicity, scalability, and focus on privacy. He also highlighted the duo's commitment and vision.

He also opened his email and downloaded the prototype, then began to look at it and was impressed with how it worked and how the layout was simple which will help attract consumers from all ages, as it was also no different from sending an SMS or text messages.

When Jack finished looking through the app and reading the papers, he leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. "It's impressive," he admitted. "They've clearly put a lot of thought into this. But a messaging app? The market is dominated by SMS and text messages, and adoption could be a challenge."

Sandro nodded. "True, but think about the demand for something like this. Messaging without paying or complexity? It's going to resonate, especially in regions where texting is expensive or unreliable. Plus, their approach to privacy could set them apart."

Jack regarded his son thoughtfully. "You're passionate about this."

"I am," Sandro said firmly. "I've seen what they can do, and I believe this could be revolutionary. If we back them now, we're not just funding an app, we're investing in the future of communication and will have a large say on it."

Jack smiled faintly. "Alright, you've convinced me to take the next step. Set up a meeting with them. I want to hear their pitch directly."

The rest of the day passed in a flurry of emails and calls. Sandro reached out to Brian and Jan, arranging a formal meeting for them with his father in the later week at Friday or Saturday. He also spent time refining his own understanding of their proposal, preparing to advocate for them as effectively as possible even though he will be returning back to Tampa tomorrow.

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Name: Alessandro Zhang

Age: 19 (2009)

Birthplace: Orlando, Florida USA

Brand: FCW

Wrestling Style: Mixed Of All Style

Faction: Dragon Boom (Tag Team)

Championship History: 1x FCW Tag Team Champions


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