Post by gvb on Mar 22, 2021 16:26:31 GMT -6
Riot in North Carolina
Live from Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte, NC
Sunday, March 21st, 2021
Earlier in the day, "The Burning Heart" James Edwards stood awkwardly in a backstage area pinned up against a wall.
James Edwards:
Eh so I'm supposed to introduce myself or something like that. I didn't expect to get ambushed by the camera crew America's Most Wanted-style.
He laughs nervously.
James Edwards:
Is that show on the air anymore?
No one from the camera crew laughs. Edwards looks even more uncomfortable.
James Edwards:
Tough crowd.
He sighs.
James Edwards:
This ain't my sorta thing, man. I do things a little different than most other new folks on the roster. I don't like to draw attention to myself. I don't need a fancy video with old clips or a promised title shot. A short press release is fine with me. What's the point of being over the top? This ain't Hollywood. This is a sport. Who I am outside the ring doesn't matter. The only version of me y'all need to worry about is the one that lives in between the ropes.
The mention of the ring visibly relaxes him.
James Edwards:
You ain't gonna get anything fancy from me there. I don't fly and I don't dance after every move. I'm happy to say my style is basic as hell. I'm all feet and fists, man, no flash. I don't do moves where there is a good chance I'll end up on my head. I drop people on there's instead. I don't do any of that chain wrestling shit either. It's a waste of time. If you wanna make somebody quit, clamp the hold on and don't let go until you hear the bell ring. It ain't hard to realize if you think about it. I guess at the end of the day if wanna know the most important thing about me it's you won't get a good show but you will get a helluva fight!
He breathes deep to calm down. Passion is a good thing to him but not before the bell rings.
Singles Match
James Edwards VS Karib TrinidadThe hype for James Edwards debut on the orange brand was real, the Charlotte fans welcomed him with great curiosity and a convinced round of applause, completely opposite reaction to the one they reserved to Karib Trinidad who wasted no time to give the former OATH Intrepid champion his personal, warm welcome to Riot with a running big boot before the sound of the bell. Someone must’ve lit up a fire under Karib’s ass, or perhaps it was merely the awareness of how much a win against a veteran like the Burning Heart would mean for his career, but this was without a doubt the best match the Tattooed Angel ever fought in his MWE career. Turning up the intensity to eleven, Trinidad wasn’t giving the veteran any room for breathing, his hard strikes kept coming even when James cowered back to the ropes to find shelter. For a brief moment Edwards caught a little break, and that was when Karib pushed him down neck first on the top rope, receiving an admonishment from the referee. But Karib was back on the attack in no time, wrapping his arms around the waist and connecting a well executed bridging german suplex that earned him a near fall. After escaping the pin, James was up to one knee and noticed that his opponent was distracted, trying to intimidate the referee into counting faster. Luckily for him the official didn’t do it, or else that quick schoolboy pin could’ve been a three count. The two competitors were back on their feet, Edwards swung and missed with the right hook and found himself lifted on Karib’s shoulders in a fireman’s carry position, but James grabbed the top rope and blocked the death valley driver attempt. Karib dumped him over the top rope and the Burning Heart landed on the apron, quickly catching the opponent with a shoulder tackle to the midsection. Sliding between his legs, Edwards entered the ring and dropped Trinidad down with a dragon suplex. Once he started rolling, James began to show that all those titles he held in his career didn’t come by sheer luck. Kick after kick, he reminded everyone that, in the striking department, he was second to none, quickly turning the tides and taking control of the match. A spinning crescent kick knocked him off his feet, and he quickly rolled toward the ropes, looking to escape from a tough spot. But Edwards grabbed him by the ankle and took him back to the middle of the ring, and he appeared to be wanting to apply a Boston crab. Karib fought back and brought both knees to his chest, pushing back to shove James against the ropes. He quickly made it back to his feet, only to get hit with a rebound wheel kick by the multi time champion. The Bad Boy kicked out of the pinning predicament, but he was in big trouble now. Edwards began to throw him around with a series of suplexes, collecting a couple of two counts. But it was the Butterfly Brainbuster that really got him close to the win, as Karib raised his shoulder at the very last second. A shy comeback attempt earned the Bad Boy a near fall with his patented shining wizard, but the Sick Kick (spinning heel kick) he attempted when Edwards picked himself up missed the target and allowed James to catch him in his Night Comes (takeover sleeper choke). Those familiar with James’ work knew exactly what was coming next, once he had the opponent sufficiently worn out: the Wildfire (spin kick/roundhouse knee combo). Karib went down like a ton of bricks and James obtained his first win in MWE. WINNER: James Edwards BY: Pinfall (Wildfire), 8:41 |
Backstage by the entrance we see “The Woman Scorned” Kimberly Williams is arriving. The eccentric ginger has the Lizard Championship wrapped around her waist.
Kimberly Williams:
Hi-ho, hi-ho, off to work we go!
Just inside the arena she stops and scans the area, furrowing her brow with curiosity.
Kimberly Williams:
Now where is he...she...it? My client! And they better bring payment. Coming to Riot for a hit is extra.
As if on cue a dinosaur comes rumbling up to The Woman Scorned. More accurately it’s a man in a dinosaur suit.
Dinosaur:
All hail the lizard queen!
The dinosaur bows to Kimberly. The lizard champion frowns.
Kimberly Williams:
Seriously? A guy in a dinosaur suit worshipping me? This is the dumbest thing I’ve ever…
Before she can finish her thought this “dinosaur” rolls her up in a small package...1...2...3! The dinosaur leaps up and takes off the dinosaur head….
Winner and NEW Lizard Champion: Donovan Keane!
Kimberly Williams:
What?!
Donovan Keane:
I did it!
He quickly snatches the lizard title belt and runs away. Kimberly growls angrily as she quickly realizes she’s been set up. She gives chase to Keane.
Tag Team Match
Bad Boyz (Omari Johnson & Dré Angelo) VS Rhett Adelson & Qiyara Singh
Qiyara was ready to start the match for her team, but the Bad Boyz had other plans. As Rhett was leaving the ring, Omari charged at Singh and tossed her out of the ring, flying onto her with a suicide dive. Dré then invited Adelson to get inside the ring and face him, which he obviously did. He told the referee to ring the bell and as it did, he sprinted toward the opponent, running into a heavy right hand from the former MMA fighter. More followed for a mounting position, raining down on Rhett’s face until the referee separated them. For a moment only, before Angelo went back on the attack, this time with forearms to the back of Adelson’s head as he rolled on his belly trying to crawl to the ropes. Once again the official stepped in to warn the Bad Boy who then grabbed the opponent’s leg and dragged him to his corner, making the tag to Omari who climbed the turnbuckle and jumped on Adelson with a diving elbow drop, worth a count of two. Omari sent Adelson into the ropes and he bounced back with a springboard cutter, making a quick cover and obtaining a two of his own. The pace was quick as the two high-flier kicked into high gear, flying all around and hitting each other with acrobatic moves. The 911 (springboard superman punch) from Omari, the top rope leg trap sunset flip powerbomb by Rhett, a tornado ddt from the Bad Boy and a reverse hurricanrana from Adelson brought as many close falls, and the fans went ballistic. The back and forth action culminated into a heavy exchange that saw the two men taking each other out with simultaneous kicks to the head. And slowly crawling to the respective partners for the tags. Dré had the clear power advantage and he hit Qiyara with some terrific shots to the ribs and sharp elbows to the head, forcing Sing back into the corner. But right when Qi was with her back against the wall, she started fighting back, ducking another elbow to the temple and catching him with a knee to the stomach. Then another, followed by an uppercut in rapid succession. Now it was Angelo who was receding toward the middle of the ring, Qiyara’s offense becoming more and more insisting, showing off her Muay Thai background. Low kick to the thigh, side push kick and a high knee. This was the Qi To Your Heart, everyone in the arena knew it and was now waiting for the final jumping kick to the chest. Including the Tattooed Demon who sidestepped and threw Singh across the ring with a saito suplex. He made the tag to Omari and the Bad Boyz started doing what they do best, isolating the opponent and bending the rules. Between illegal chokes using the tag rope while Omari kept the referee distracted, two on one attacks going way further the five seconds they were supposed to last and the general set of cheap shots and dirty tactics, the duo really did a number on Qiyara, who almost capitulated to Dré’s back superplex. Rhett tried to make the save but he ran into Omari’s Super Duper Kick. Luckily for him, his girlfriend still had some fight in her and managed to raise her shoulder in time. Overconfidence, as often happens, was their demise, giving Qiyara the chance to slip away and get Rhett back into the ring. He blasted Johnson with a flurry of quick kicks and planted him with a headlock driver, trying to make the cover with a running shooting star press, but Dré broke up the pin. That didn’t discourage Adelson who continued dominating the opponent and hit the Explosion. once again Angelo tried to save his partner but he was caught Singhing Off Qi from Qiyara. Then came the one, two and three giving the couple a well deserved victory, and their measure ofretribution. WINNER: Rhett Adelson & Qiyara Singh BY: Pinfall (Explosion), 11:08 |
We cut once again backstage, near the locker room are. The camera sneaked up on the former Invictus champion Echo as she was getting ready for her match later tonight. There was no interviewer in sight, the sweet Abi Brooke rightfully refused to interview the Australian after their last encounters ended with her needing medical attention. The ominous task was up to a brave cameraman who tried to get Echo's attention, calling her name with a trembling voice. The Australian turned around, and she didn't look in the mood for conversation. But then again, was she ever?
You could hear the poor guy gulp, the camera slightly shaking as Echo stared back in the camera coldly and threatening, waiting for the first question that was long in coming.
And then it happened.
A figure jumped into frame, taking down the former Invictus champion with one single punch to the jaw. A Sambo casting punch, also known as Fedor punch or, to the Riot fans, the Viper's Sting one of Nina's trademark moves. The Chicago born was attacking Echo, retribution for her costing the MENTV championship opportunity one week ago. Echo managed to raise her arms and protect the face, even rolling Nina off her and throwing her against some production crates near the floor.
She was furios, pure rage in her eyes like she had during the attack on Razzles Mars back in December. She was out for blood, and Nina looked like the perfect victim to quench her thirst, more so now that Nina hit the back of the head against the crates, and that left her stunned. Or actually, she just pretented to be, baiting Echo into lowering her guard as she approached the former intern, who then kicked her in the knee. Quickly up to her feet, Nina threw the opponent head first into the crates, and than grabbed a handful of her blonde hair to slam her skull on them repeatedly.
As she stopped, Echo's face was a crimson mask. But this didn't stop her from headbutting Nina with a blow so violent that busted the Viper's nose. Head down, Echo charged and speared Nina into a vending machine, hitting her with a flurry of punches. A lot of them landed on target, but Nina only needed to dodge one to turn the tides. Echo's hand hit the shatter-proof glass, and she felt it, immediately clutching her hand. Nina dropped her on the floor with an inverted ddt and probably would've done much worse if security didn't stop her.
Vincent Moretti was with them and he looked disappointed, shaking his head at Nina and telling her that, if she wanted to fight Echo so badly, all she had to do was asking. Now, he's forced to fine her, which means she'll be competing at Dark Web 3 without pay. Her opponent? Echo, of course. As for the stipulation, that'll be up to the fans.
The Chicago born shrugged, saying that she'll be more than happy to beat up "the bitch". Even for free.
You could hear the poor guy gulp, the camera slightly shaking as Echo stared back in the camera coldly and threatening, waiting for the first question that was long in coming.
And then it happened.
A figure jumped into frame, taking down the former Invictus champion with one single punch to the jaw. A Sambo casting punch, also known as Fedor punch or, to the Riot fans, the Viper's Sting one of Nina's trademark moves. The Chicago born was attacking Echo, retribution for her costing the MENTV championship opportunity one week ago. Echo managed to raise her arms and protect the face, even rolling Nina off her and throwing her against some production crates near the floor.
She was furios, pure rage in her eyes like she had during the attack on Razzles Mars back in December. She was out for blood, and Nina looked like the perfect victim to quench her thirst, more so now that Nina hit the back of the head against the crates, and that left her stunned. Or actually, she just pretented to be, baiting Echo into lowering her guard as she approached the former intern, who then kicked her in the knee. Quickly up to her feet, Nina threw the opponent head first into the crates, and than grabbed a handful of her blonde hair to slam her skull on them repeatedly.
As she stopped, Echo's face was a crimson mask. But this didn't stop her from headbutting Nina with a blow so violent that busted the Viper's nose. Head down, Echo charged and speared Nina into a vending machine, hitting her with a flurry of punches. A lot of them landed on target, but Nina only needed to dodge one to turn the tides. Echo's hand hit the shatter-proof glass, and she felt it, immediately clutching her hand. Nina dropped her on the floor with an inverted ddt and probably would've done much worse if security didn't stop her.
Vincent Moretti was with them and he looked disappointed, shaking his head at Nina and telling her that, if she wanted to fight Echo so badly, all she had to do was asking. Now, he's forced to fine her, which means she'll be competing at Dark Web 3 without pay. Her opponent? Echo, of course. As for the stipulation, that'll be up to the fans.
The Chicago born shrugged, saying that she'll be more than happy to beat up "the bitch". Even for free.
Tag Team Match
Nightfall Show VS BreeTee Committee
The former tag team champions were already in the ring when “Jet CIty Woman” blared out of the loudspeakers. The Junior Heavyweight champion Leia LeBeau walked out with her boyfriend and new Lizard champion Donovan Keane: The couple made her way to the ring and was about to enter the ring when a much dreaded sound echoed in the Bojangles Coliseum. “EXTERMINATE!” You could see Donnie turning around and mouthing “Oh sh..” as the Dalek rolled down the ramp. And with him was Kimberly Williams, coming at full speed and blasting Keane with the Shadowblade knee strike. The Woman Scorned made the cover to recapture her title before a shocked Leia could do anything to save Donnie. A happy Kimberly left the ring with her title and her trusted Dalek, leaving Keane flat on his back right outside the ring. Leia was the first to reach him, the referee joined them too to check if the young man was fit to compete. Donovan looked dizzy but willing to fight his match reassuring both the referee and his girl about his conditions. He even took the tag a couple of minutes into the contest, seeing that Leia was in difficulty against the stronger Bree. At first he got the momentum in his side surprising Smith with a flurry of quick kicks, even getting a first near fall with an inverted ddt. But then Bree caught him in mid-air off a diving crossbody and walked into her corner, dropping him a couple of times on her knee with her trademark backbreaker reps as she went. Teegs took the tag and while Bree held him horizontally, she hit the ropes to get some. momentum behind the big boot to the head she hit Donnie with. Leia was quick to rush in and make the save, It appeared clear to the Junior Heavyweight champion and the fans that, despite his effort to hide and, all things considered, a decent performance, Donovan was far from his best shape. As minutes passed, his struggle became more evident and his girlfriend had to interfere in a couple of occasions to keep Nightfall Show alive. Donnie desperately needed to make the tag, and his opportunity came when Gallagher climbed to the top rope and jumped for her Tee For Two (630 splash). Keane rolled out of the way and the former tag champion crashed hard into the canvas. Donnie reached his corner and made the tag to Leia who immediately went for the Jet City Jive. Her target though was Bree, knocking her off the apron before Teagan could reach her. The Junior Heavyweight champion knew she had to carry her team now, and she did a wonderful job holding her own against Teagan and Bree. With a running meteora on the Irish born, Leia came this close to “avenge” the loss she suffered one week ago, but Bree broke it up before Keane could stop her. LeBeau’s brave performance was almost touching. Even when the BreeTee Committee turned the tides and, exploiting what at this point looked like a numbers game advantage considering that Donovan was barely able to stand on his own legs, definitely in no condition to help her, she never gave up the fight. Her speed and the boxing background gave the illusion that she could turn things around and take home the win. The Bree-Show (pop up powerbomb) crushed the Show and her hopes. Smith hooked the leg and picked up the win. WINNER: The BreeTee Committee BY: Pinfall (Bree-Show), 12:08 |
Alex Andrews:
I'm tired...
Alex is sitting in her car, head resting on the steering wheel, sitting in the parking structure at the BoJangles Coliseum. There, she slowly turns her head towards the camera.
Alex Andrews:
This sport has given me a lot, it has taken me across the country and even a little bit abroad. It even gave me a best friend I never thought I'd have. She has her own issues and troubles, but she knows when the chips are down I'll have her back. I even became a champion with her and it was a glorious short ride and I wouldn't change it for the world.
A faint smile on her face.
Alex Andrews:
But that's not why I'm tired. Its cause even after making headway, even after plodding forward step by step, I'm still seen as a snot nosed rookie. And sure, I'm still very early in my journey. We all know this, but to get being snubbed and chastised over and over like Neil Newman continues to do, a girl can only take so much, right?
She raises her head, hands on the steering wheel, letting out a breath.
Alex Andrews:
Liv, I don't have any qualms with you. Truly. But this is about momentum, and that's something I severely need. Mine has been very stop/start and one just can't build a legacy on being mediocre. And that's what I want. Eventually. But for now, I'll take every bit of momentum I can get heading into Dark Web. Because I intend to be the one that tears that MENTV Championship out of Neil Newman's hand. Me. The person he has been sneering at for the past six months. So, I'll do what I must. It won't be personal, just business.
Alex lets out another short laugh.
Alex Andrews:
I guess that's just me growing up a little.
Alex peers upwards outside the car, in the vague direction of the sky.
Alex Andrews:
Heh. I'm sure he'll be proud.
Alex shakes her head and gets out of the car, slamming the door as she leaves, the camera soon fading to black
Singles Match
Liv Mercer VS Alex AndrewsThere was something different in Alex tonight. The focus and determination were still there in her eyes, but the smile that she usually met the fans with was gone, despite they showered her with love and support as she made her way to the ring where the former Junior Heavyweight and Riot champion was waiting for her. A tough client, Liv. Not only for what she accomplished in her MWE career so far and her undoubted skills she always showed, even in defeat. But the presence of her boyfriend Oz at ringside was something that must always be taken into account. Andrews was aware of it and kept a close eye on the man since the first minutes, and this distraction left her open to a cross punch from Liv that sent her stumbling. Mercer insisted with kicks to the sides and ended her first attack with a roundhouse kick that flattened Lady Limitless. After Alex kicked out, Mercer stomped her a few times and did it with a smile on her face, mocking the opponent and taunting the fans who were cheering on her. “Is this your hero?” She yelled at them as Andrews slowly picked herself up. Then she turned around, taking her hand and placing it on Alex’ face as she pushed back in an ultimate sign of disrespect. Big mistake as that condescending attitude was exactly the kind of thing that would piss Alex off and, in fact, the nineteen years old charged and blasted her with an Elysium (bicycle kick) that sent Mercer clear across the ring. With a catlike pounce Andrews was right back on top of the New Yorker, hammering at her with aggressive punches to the face. The referee managed to separate them but couldn’t calm down Alex who started stomping at Liv. Oz grabbed her arm and dragged her out of the ring and out of harm's way. Or so he thought. With a pescado, Alex jumped over the top rope and took them both down. Back in the ring, Andrews tried to end things quickly with the Hella Rough (unprettier) but Liv had it scouted and dodged the bullet. The two women began trading blows and the more expert Liv came out on top with a sequence of two elbows to the face followed by a spinning backfist. Alex was whirling after that combination and Liv looked quite pleased with herself. Liv put her head under Andrews’ arm and wrapped her arms around her waist, flipping her backward in a bridging german suplex. Alex kicked out in two and tried to pick herself up quickly but Mercer was right there to stop her with a series of shoot kicks to the chest. Liv went for one last kick to the head but this one was ducked by Alex who then rolled her over with a schoolboy. It wasn’t a pinning predicament though, she instead pushed Mercer through and rolled over to kick her in the head. Her foot connected with the former champion’s temple with a deaf sound and left her rocked. Alex went for the Brain Death (step up axe kick) but once again Liv avoided her finishing move, dropping the opponent down with a straightjacket neckbreaker slam. Liv rushed Alex but got caught with a back elbow to the face that staggered her. She replied with a shotgun dropkick that sent Alex flying into a corner. Liv measured her and then charged in with a basement dropkick to the face. She pulled Alex out of the corner and covered, stepping on the middle rope for some extra leverage. The referee spotted it and interrupted the count, immediately having a conversation with the former Riot champion. This bought Alex some valuable time to recover and when Liv charged with a headscissor takedown, Andrews countered it into a sitdown powerbomb that gave her only a count of two. As she went to pick Mercer up the expert fighter surprised her with an eye poke, connecting the Stay Grounded to the blinded opponent who, to Liv’s dismay, kicked out in time. Mercer tried something new, hauling Alex up in a fireman’s carry position but the rookie slipped behind her shoulders and hit the Broken Wings (backstabber). Liv went down, arching her back in pain. She was about to get up when the second Brain Death attempt hit the mark, knocking her down and giving Alex a prestigious win. WINNER: Alex Andrews BY: Pinfall (Brain Death), 10:09 |
Singles Match
Tank Steiner VS EchoTo nobody's surprise, Rumchata Ayano announced that this match was cancelled, due to Echo being unable to compete after the brutal assault suffered backstage. |
We open backstage, specifically the dressing room containing Glory Braddock, Sophie O’Brian, and Sophie’s brother Mark. Sophie and Glory are both dressed to compete, both are ready for action. What makes them different is the fact that The British Bombshell is wearing a Duke Blue Devils shirt. Sophie’s brother Mark is wearing a Carolina Tar Heels shirt. This fact has not gone unnoticed by Sophie, who looks thoroughly frustrated.
Sophie O'Brian:
So what, pray tell is the purpose of the ridiculous getups this time? Are we going to indulge in the Neanderthal barbarism that is March Madness?
Mark O'Brian:
I agree with ya on this one, Sophie. Why isn’t this goat wearin’ any pants?
Sophie rolls her eyes as Sophie motions to the ram insignia on the shirt. Braddock chuckles, enjoying her friend’s frustration.
Glory Braddock:
Come on, mate. We’re in North Carolina and it’s NCAA Tournament season.
Sophie O'Brian:
Why should I care?
Glory Braddock:
Because it’s fun! Carolinians love their basketball. Between you, me, and Mark we’ll have them all covered.
Sophie O'Brian:
Wait...me?
Mark tosses Sophie an NC State Wolfpack shirt.
Mark O'Brian:
Glory’s idea, by the way.
Sophie O'Brian:
Bloody hell, of course it was! How does this help against the Triumvirate again?
Braddock shrugs her shoulders.
Glory Braddock:
I suppose it doesn’t, unless having the fans on your side counts. But I do have this…
Braddock produces a bag of ghost pepper chips.
Glory Braddock:
We could shove these down their bloody stinking throats!
Sophie O'Brian:
That’s better.
The British Bombshell chuckles.
Glory Braddock:
In all seriousness, we do need to go in prepared. Between the two of us and Henri Black we are more than a match for Seth, Pierce, and Megan. But now they’re expecting us. They’ll have something in mind. So Mark, we may need you to have our back.
Mark O'Brian:
If I gotta crush some skulls I’m game.
Braddock nods her head.
Glory Braddock:
Excellent. The Triumvirate has been able get away with murder for far too long. Tonight we beat all three of those tossers, and we punch our tickets to championship opportunities. When we take the gold from them, we take the power from them. That’s our plan. Understand?
Sophie finally cracks a smile.
Sophie O'Brian:
Always.
Singles Match
Alan Envy VS Eliza FoleyTwo of Riot’s heaviest hitters went one on one in this match and, after some trash talk, they started throwing hands. Alan had the obvious strength advantage, but Eliza was holding her ground, fighting back with stiff strikes right to Envy’s face. She got some momentum but eventually the Lonestar powered through and gained a consistent advantage, pushing Foley back in the corner where he continued with forearm strikes to the face. An eye rake bought the former Millennium champion some space and earned her a warning from the referee. She couldn’t care less, too focused on capitalizing on that window of opportunity that just opened. Taking a page out of her wife Nora, she speared Alan on the canvas letting out a banshee-like scream and began dropping hard strikes to the former AGW World Champion. She only stopped to get up and start stomping him furiously. Envy rolled under the bottom rope, trying to find refuge on the apron. Foley had no intention of slowing down, grabbing a handful of hair and dragging him up to his feet. He was standing groggily on the apron and Eliza went for a suicide dive, looking to knock him out of the ring. He reacted with a knee to the head that left the Red Line winner limp on the second rope. Alan pulled her up by the hair and dragged her toward the corner, slamming her head on the top turnbuckle. Still standing on the apron, He attempted to suplex her on the outside but Eliza shifted her weight and ended on the apron, inches away from Alan. Before she could realize it though, he turned her inside out with a lariat, causing her to land awkwardly with her lower back on the edge of the ring. Her history with back injuries was not a secret and Alan was hell bent on exploiting it to get a big win with potentially interesting implications. He worked her on the mat with some submission moves, stomped and dropped his knee on that area, even stretched her across the ring post in a very painful but illegal move he could only keep for five seconds, more than enough to do a lot of damage though. All that before trying to put her away with a pop-up death valley driver. Another known fact about Eliza was her ability to take an incredible amount of punishment, so seeing her kicking out in two wasn’t really a shock to the Charlotte fans. And yet it was undeniable how much this took from her, and how the back would have been a problem from then on. Her movements were not as fluid as they used to be, a grimace of pain appeared on her face after basically anything she did and lifting Alan for the simplest suplex was an impossible task. Her attempt saw Alan fighting back with a couple of elbows to the face and dropping her on her chest with a gourdbuster, leveling the Mysterious Girl with a sliding lariat as she tried to get up. The combination didn’t give Alan the win he hoped to obtain, and that was starting to frustrate the Lonestar. He tried to lock her in the Paying Dues but Eliza dropped down on her rear when her head was right under his chin, stunning the Iconic who stumbled back into the ropes. On the rebound, Eliza took him down with a dropkick to the knee and quickly went behind him. She was in a visible pain but this was her best shot to end the match, and she didn’t miss it. The Mysterious Girl (rolling cutter) was a true Hail Mary at this point, but it got the job done, giving Eliza a hard fought victory that, at some point, looked like a mirage. WINNER: Eliza Foley BY: Pinfall (Mysterious Girl), 13:55 |
We then head to the rafters of the building where even the camera man lets out a shutter. It’s a dark and empty looking place but right now Seth Iser is standing alone rather than with his Triumvirate teammates at the moment. It seems he wanted some time on his own to reflect on things. The veteran is dressed in a little different attire...it’s his normal black base but the flags of every country he’s ever wrestled in are accounted for on the tights. He’s worn this look a couple of times in the past and it seems he’s breaking it out tonight.
Seth Iser:
Solus ipse…
After speaking the latin phrase calmly he gestures both at the MWE World Title around his waist and the FGA World Title over his shoulder. The beard is starting to grow back slightly though the grey is far more prominent in said facial hair than ever before. The greying hair also makes him seem much older than he actually is until you see he’s in phenomenal physical condition with the veins through his arms.
Seth Iser:
I alone...am the World Champion. And even with my associates in the Triumvirate they’re aware of how being a champion is an isolating feeling. Everyone in the company puts a target on your back. They scan you for any weakness, perceived or actual, and want to attack. You’re everyone’s prey in that regard. Their knives, their barbs, their mind games, their best efforts...all are gunning just to put themselves in a position to get a match with you yet alone challenge you for the biggest prize in the business. It’s cutthroat, dog eat dog. And it’s a position that after a while...it’d make even a good man go paranoid thinking there are enemies in every corner.
Then there is a wry smile on his face as he’s well aware of what he’s going through right now.
Seth Iser:
Though just because you’re paranoid doesn’t mean they aren’t out to get you. There’s always a plot...always a scheme...always someone with the wild hair up their ass and the balls to take a shot to try to take you down.
That smile of an old man who knows everything stays in place as he strokes his beard for a moment in thought before that smile goes.
Seth Iser:
And shots are already being fired in my direction. Duke fired his shot on twitter...and the trio of Henri, Glory and Sophie aimed their shot last week; now they are coming in guns-a-blazing for the damned trios match. But one thing at a time...so Duke...with Dark Web approaching...you told me who I’m facing. An old friend...someone who has seen me work for a few years now...but never have we tested what we got against one another. So it’s Christian Michaels then...
There’s a devilish smile on his face for a moment.
Seth Iser:
How sporty of you. Granted you could still change your mind and all but since we can go between brands...I’ll grant you a sporty challenge in return. Someone who I know but you aren’t near as familiar with. It’s short notice for both of you but it’s an exhibition no doubt. That and quite frankly...I want to see how you two fight against one another. You’re dealing with the man who was dubbed The Burning Heart. You’re going one on one with James Edwards.
He pauses for a moment as his body language relaxes slightly but his lips curl into that frown.
Seth Iser:
Have fun with that little exhibition.
And after he mouths that he leans forward.
Seth Iser:
Now to the three who are pointing their barrels at me. Henri, Glory, and Sophie. I could spend time yelling and screaming about that and believe me Henri...I’m going to get you back for that god damned chip. But...I’m not wasting my energy with that. I’m also aware that chaos always seems to follow Henri and Glory together. It’s just...in their nature.
He narrows his eyes before shaking his head thinking about that.
Seth Iser:
And a trios match is chaos with all of those moving parts. It always has been and always will be. It’s even more chaotic when the lucha influences started shining in the American style of wrestling with slick double and triple teams as well as different ways to manipulate the ref’s count and positioning with all of those people. All three of us are well aware of the possibilities that we’re walking into. And even if you surprise us with something, we’ll adjust on the fly. That’s what a professional does, after all…
The trademark sneer is back on his face as he’s eyeballing the camera.
Seth Iser:
A lot of championships between all six of us. We’re six of the best in the company right now. It’s why we’re getting the main event pay. But tonight? We’ll prove the superiority of The Triumvirate. Pierce is the head of this brand...Megan is the longest reigning champion in the company today...and I’m not only the World Champion but I’m Wrestling’s most Devious Son. There are things even you three haven’t seen in how to manipulate the rules that I can do. And it’s all the easier with more people…
The confidence bordering on arrogance is creeping in as his body language is still light though he rubs his forehead where he was the victim of that triple fireball attack on Riot After Dark.
Seth Iser:
And I think it’s a little overdue that I remind you three just who in the hell you are dealing with. You’ll pay a little toll physically by the end of tonight...you have my word on that one. I am the Great One. We are the Triumvirate. And you three...are just going to make your cases for second place. For your own reasons...just like Duke will on the pay per view stage. You’re more pages for my legacy in the sport...my Magnum Opus. Just don’t let this inflame tensions and all when the ink dries after tonight, alright?
With that conclusion he just taps the two pieces of gold he’s carrying before he walks off presumably to go do some last minute planning for the Trios match tonight.
Trios Match
The Triumvirate (Seth Iser & Megan Monroe & Pierce Manning) VS Henri Black & Sophie O'Brian & Glory Braddock
Amy Maynard: “Figgles, what are you expecting from this main event? Sir Figgles: “What kind of question is that, Amy? We have the World Champion, the Intercontinental champion and the Riot champion all in one match, all in one team. That’s the best this company can offer, the other three don’t stand a chance.” Amy Maynard: “I wouldn’t discount them so quickly.. Glory is a 16 time World champion, Sophie has won a few titles as well and Henri recently lost the Riot title to Pierce, he has all the interest in showing that his win was a fluke, or luck, or he flat out cheated. Or again, all three above.” Sir Figgles: “Again with the conspiracy theories? I told you already, there’s no..” The unmistakable rumor of rotor blades of a helicopter flying over the Arena could be heard and Figgles’ expression quickly changed. Inside the ring, Henri Black smiled as he was ready to start hostilities against Seth Iser. The Blackstar said something about the Arena being a bit… Chilly tonight. An obvious pun playing on the events after last week’s Riot that didn’t sit well with Seth, still uncomfortable at the mere mention of what went on. Black doubled over asking Seth if he was ok, saying that he looked like he just saw a ghost… A ghost reaper to be precise. If the fans and the Blackstar’s partners were appreciating Henri’s humor, the MWE World champion clearly didn’t enjoy being mocked. You could see that he was fuming, barely holding back until the bell sounded, signaling the official start of the match. And then he struck with a right punch that could’ve sent Henri straight to Dreamland if he didn’t duck at the very last second. Black grabbed Seth’s leg and took him down to the mat, immediately going for his Memento Mori ankle lock. Iser reached the ropes quickly, forcing the break before the opponent could effectively apply the submission. Pierce asked the World champion if he wanted him to take care of Henri, a smug expression on his face as he offered the tag. And Black would’ve loved it, almost daring Manning to get in the ring with him. Seth looked at his partner then at the opponent and back to his fellow Triumvirate member. Then he sucker-punched Henri with a discus clothesline, moving unexpectedly quickly for his man of his size. The former Riot champion landed on the canvas after a complete flip in the air, trying to protect himself from Seth’s ground and pound attacks. The veteran dragged Henri on his feet and punished him with some hard chops a la Tank Steiner. Lifting him off the canvas, he drove him into the friendly corner wearing him down with a few shoulder blocks to the stomach before making the tag to Manning. Sir Figgles: “Not gonna lie, I’m enjoying seeing Henri getting beat up.” Manning picked up where Seth left, staying on top of his rival and dropping him down with the rotating belly to back suplex side slam. He made a cover, but it was a rather cocky one with little to none weight on Black’s body and no leg hooked, and that made it easy for the Australian to kick out in two. Seth wasn’t pleased with this and told Pierce to stay focused. His words, once again, were prophetic as, a minute later, The Blackstar caught the Riot champion with a shoulder jawbreaker and then flattened him with a ripcord lariat. Henri kept his hold around Pierce’s wrist and dragged him to his corner, making the tag to Sophie. Assuming the role of the ring general, Henri ordered the Belfast born to climb to the top rope before stomping Pierce’s arm. He then places his foot on his wrist, keeping the arm stretched and pinned to the canvas. Manning tried to wriggle out as soon as he figured out what Henri asked Sophie to do, but it was too late already. O’Brian jumped and landed with both feet on his arm. Amy Maynard: “Damn, she could have broken his arm!” Sir Figgles: “If the double foot stomp didn’t do it, this just might.” Sophie then went for an armbar, twisting that same arm and trying to pop it out of the socket. Pierce screamed in pain which prompted his girlfriend to step in the ring and obliterate O’Brian with the Mega Kick (running single leg dropkick to the face). Glory barged in to avenge her best friend, taking the Intercontinental champion down with a clothesline. Henri and Seth, obviously, joined the party, meeting once again in the middle of the ring and starting to throw punches at one another. The referee tried to restore order, he really did. But these kinds of situations usually tend to solve themselves when bodies begin to fly, and so it happened tonight. First was Megan, tossed out by Glory with a back body drop over the top rope. Then she went to help Henri but she couldn’t save him from being chokeslammed to the floor. She could tho, hit the World champion with some kicks to the back of the leg and when he turned around, she sent him through the ropes with a push kick to the chest. Pierce sneaked up behind her and grabbed her leg to send the Best In The World tumbling over the top rope, and before he turned around, he felt Sophie’s arm wrapping around his waist. He blocked the german suplex attempt and used the injured elbow to break free. After three of them he was favoring his arm but his opponent surely had the worst of it, stumbling back to the centre of the ring. The Man dropped her on her head with a brainbuster but only managed to keep her down for two seconds. Amy Maynard: “Tag to Megan, and now the Intercontinental champion takes the stage.” Sir Figgles: “The one and only, get it right Amy! She’s been champion for a full year, she deserves some respect.” Sophie wasn’t going to show her any though, the history between them, and how Megan retained the title against her was well documented. O’Brian was inviting Monroe to hit her, not that the IC champion needed an invitation to do it. But there was a method to this apparent madness, the idea was to keep provoking her until she made a mistake, which punctually happened. She missed the roundhouse kick and got slammed down with a snap german suplex. Sophie kept the hold around the waist and connected two more before making the tag to Glory. The British Bombshell controlled this part of the match with the help of Henri Black, the two working surprisingly well together after their heated rivalry over the Riot championship. Manning had to get in a couple of times to help his girlfriend. The second time he engaged with Henri, giving Meg a chance to catch her breath. He then refused to leave the ring, keeping the referee busy while Megan hit the Aussie with a low blow Henri and knocked him down with a crescent kick. Amy Maynard: “One referee is not enough when so many people are involved. Especially if they are… crafty individuals like Seth, Megan and Pierce.” Sir Figgles: “Remember, it’s not cheating if the referee doesn’t see it.” It was funny to see how quickly Figgles’ opinion changed when Manning suffered the same fate. Sophie provided the distraction, Henri kicked him right there and tagged Glory in. The former Riot champion went immediately for the Beautiful Insanity, but Seth saved the day. The final moments of the match were chaotic to say the least… Not that the rest of the match had been a walk in the park for the poor Charles. But in these last minutes keeping track of what was going on was impossible. Between blind tags, fake tags, triple tags and constant run ins, nobody could tell who was legal anymore. And the six individuals had no intention of making this any easier for the referee. The six of them were inside the ring at the same time, and they all tried to score the decisive pinfall. Charles just kept going down and making the count, no matter who pinned who at this point. Amy tried to get the facts straight and established that Seth and Sophie were the two legal competitors. But that made no difference, none of them was willing to leave the ring and Charles stopped caring, looking forward to being done with this. Seth hit the Deprivation DDT on Henri, Ode To Braddock on Wrestling’s Greatest Mind by Sophie who ate a Beautiful Disaster from the IC champion. Glory dropped her on her head with The Glorification, turning her back on Pierce who hit his TBTM. The Riot champion, exhausted, dropped on his knees before making the cover. And that was when Henri blindsided him with the Black Sacrament, obtaining the three and a win over his rival. Seth came back to senses and addressed the referee, claiming that neither Henri nor Pierce was the legal man. But Charles didn't even stay to raise the winners' hands, fleeing the ring before things go south. WINNER: Henri Black, Glory Braddock & Sophie O’Brian BY: Pinfall (Black Sacrament), 23:48 |