Competition began straight off the bat at the Moche Rip Curl Pro Portugal - first day of the waiting period and they're into Round 1. The World Title may be decided here at Portugal so there's a delicious backstory running through the heats: Mick or Kelly, who'll be the champ?

There were a few upsets in Round 1, namely Jacob Wilcox beating Kelly Slater in their heat. Jacob nabbed a start in the contest courtesy of his sponsor, Rip Curl. Surfing sleuths will raise an eyebrow right about now. The sponsor's wildcard paving the way for The Curl's No.1 rider to take the crown.

Conspiracy, drama, rah, rah!

That plotline was put to bed the very next heat when Fanning went down to Wilko. So now the two title contenders have to surf in Round 2 and I have to conjour a fresh nefarious scheme.

For a full, non-conspiratorial recap click here.

All photos ASP/Cestari