Post by gvb on May 2, 2021 15:31:06 GMT -6
Millennium LXXXIII
Live from Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, MI
Wednesday, April 28th, 2021
Recorded this afternoon
The building in the forefront of the shot was what was some would consider dilapidated. Sure, the concrete walls were still standing, but the paint was more than just flaking off. The steel roof was rusted and some spots were torn back from various weather issues.
??:
If you listen closely, you can still hear the five thousand people screaming inside.”
Duke Andrews voice is heard as the camera peeled back to reveal the Epitome of Perfection standing on top of the Michigan St hill looking down towards what was once the ‘Angel Arena’ where Professional Wrestling Today came to the world live every week.
Standing there in a red and white plaid sport coat. His frame towered over the shot.
Duke Andrews:
The first month in, I had a hell of a run. A kid just out of the academy and in the big leagues. Took Brandon Marks to the limit over and over again. Only to lose that first PPV match, the newcomer battle royale.
A laugh is heard from Duke.
Duke Andrews:
That was the night you and Van Dam actually stuck your neck out for that cocky arrogant piece of trash. Who would’ve thought that almost seventeen years later we would be standing back in this spot.
He turned his head. Standing next to him and the black 2021 Chevrolet Corvette C8, was none other than Christian Michaels.
Duke Andrews:
I mean, that was the peak of Teh Southern Heartthrob era. You headlining and all I was doing was trying to get noticed.
Duke leaned against the side of the car as he crossed his arms against his chest. He could tell the moment was coming over Christian. The memories, the matches, the titles won, relationships built.
Duke Andrews:
Ya know, back then it was just about trying to be the best. It was trying to work my ass off to being mentioned with you, Taylor, David, even Seifer. And then, somewhere I built the moniker of the Epitome of Perfection, shit…
Duke pauses as he cocked his head to the side and looked at Christian.
Duke Andrews:
Let’s go in.
Without pause the two got in the car and took off towards the vacant building. Once they arrived, Duke took the keys from his pocket and stuck a large bronze key into the green steel door that faintly still read ‘TALENT ONLY’. He tossed the key at Christian who looked at him puzzled.
Duke Andrews:
Keep it. I have another at home.
With that he pulled the door open and walked inside. There was still that smell to the back. The one you can’t identify but know as soon as it hits your nostrils. It had been almost a decade since the last show had been run from this building.
Duke Andrews:
I bought the building a little over a year ago. Kept it from being turned into condos.
It was then he could see Christian taking his time walking through the back as they reached the spot that used to be gorilla.
Duke Andrews:
The last time I walked through this curtain, a one on one with Zarek. Never thought then we would end up where we have since then. Since that moment it became about the money. It became about headlining and constantly adding commas to the bank account. And suddenly it hit me that now, the end of my career is on the horizon….
Duke looked at the key in Christians hand.
Duke Andrews:
Maybe that’s why I ended up buying this dump. Maybe, maybe not. But that’s where we are. That’s how we got here. All the ups and downs. The bumps we’ve taken, the shit we spewed. Hell, even when it comes to Seth, at the end of the day it’s just work. The problem that he doesn’t realize, and maybe you can get it through his skull, since of all people in this company that knows what is what, who is who, and who knows me the absolute best. Seth woke up that sleeping monster. That deep dark burning desire that first grew to fame in this building. Seth did this.
He paused as Christian looked at him, an approving nod on his face.
Christian Michaels:
Ya know what ever happens between yawl in that ring is between yawl. That’s all that needs to be said.
And the scene fades into black.
Singles Match
Christina Rose VS Joey LeclairBoth Joey and Christina were looking for a win tonight to bounce back after the losses suffered at Dark Web III. Leclair quickly switched behind Christina’s back and attacked her from behind with a hard forearm to the back of the head. Scoop slam by Joey who then went for a running knee drop, but Hilton moved out of the way. She quickly rolled him up with a La Magistral, but the former Chicago Way champion kicked out in two. The two went back and forth, Crystal bounced off the ropes following an irish whip and hit a crossbody on Leclair, who easily kicked out in two. Back to their feet, the two traded elbows, probably not the wisest decision Rose could make. Joey won the battle and whipped Christina against the ropes, flattening her with a bicycle kick as she came back. Staying on the attack, Leclair picked her up for a suplex and floated into cover for another near fall. The Blossoming Rose was fighting with a new found spirit, hitting a series of dropkicks to knock Joey down every time he stood up to his feet. Using her speed and agility to her advantage, Hilton bombarded the former Chicago Way champion with a flurry of kicks, ending her sequence with the Flashing Lights (chick kick). As the Prodigy went down, she hit her Smell The Roses (handspring standing moonsault) and made another cover for another two and half. Busy night for the referee who had to count an incredible number of pinning predicaments, most of them from Christina who tried, in vain, to take Joey by surprise with quick pins. She snapped off a DDT and went up top to hit a missile dropkick. Christina went for a second Flashing Lights, this one ducked by the former Chicago Way champion who lariated her from behind. That was the turning point of the match that, from that moment on, was firmly in Joey’s hands. Confirming the trend shown since Dark Web III, a less aggressive and more methodical set of offense, The Prodigy was alternating hard striking combinations to an array of suplexes to flaunt his often underestimated technical ability. After a vertical suplex, he picked up Christina and hit a fisherman suplex hold for two. An attempted comeback from the Michigan’s born saw her getting very close to the three with an out of nowhere tilt-a-whirl ddt. But it was a flash in the pan, Leclair quickly regained control right away with a shoulder breaker transitioned into an armbar. Christin struggled to get out of the excruciating submission, finding the nearby ropes to save herself- Further proof of his new found attitude, Joey immediately let her go, granting a clean break where, a couple of months ago, he would’ve used the full five count to inflict more damage. After the Prodigal Elbow failed to put Rose down for good, the former Chicago Way champion went for his Stygian (vertebreaker). Somehow Crystal slipped away during the set up phase and rolled him on his shoulders, grabbing a handful of tights to desperately try keep him down for the three count. And barely getting it, with Joey kicking out a millisecond after the referee’s hand touched the canvas for the third and final time. WINNER: Christina Rose BY: Pinfall (Roll Up), 8:55 |
A cameraman catches up with Xavier Laroux, in the middle of a phone call, just moments before his big Tag Team match with Andrew Raynes against Luna and West Long. Laroux held up a single finger before inaudibly finishing his conversation. He sets the phone off to the side and fully turns his attention to the man holding the camera.
Xavier Laroux:
West was right.
That arrogant smirk flashed across his features as he went into detail.
Xavier Laroux:
West knows what I'm capable of. The kinda shit I've done for success. He had every reason to be out there. I mean, let's be real here. Bitch like Luna? Ain't no way she's gettin one over on me. But add in that big ass batterin ram? Gave her a muchh better shot at doin it. I don't blame him, at all. He knew exactly what was gonna happen out there and he had to make sure it didn't end like he knew it woulda..with her flat on her fuckin back and that bell ringin.
Giving off a rather nonchalant shrug, the smirk he wore only grew, as if he remembered a pretty big detail.
Xavier Laroux:
But this time..it's gonna be different. Luna may gotta big ass batterin ram in her corner but I gots somethin too, in mine. I gottan..Embracer of Hate. I'm comin into this with Andrew Raynes. Now, sure we hadda lilbit of a misunderstandin on Twitter, but as history shows, I can team with anyone successfully. I'm still feelin some kinda way bout how things went down with Luna so I damn sure want this win. I hope like hell you do too, Raynes.
He nodded his head in full agreement with his own words. Bringing a single hand up, he rubbed it across the hair covering the back of his head.
Xavier Laroux:
I mean, I really fuckin hope you don't make this into somethin it ain't gotta be, Raynes. We can get this shit done and hell, I'll even cover a few drinks after the show but get this one thing clear right now..
The arrogance fades away from Xavier's expression, replaced by a much more serious one.
Xavier Laroux:
Don't gimme a reason. See, I'm doin this whole GoodGuyX thing and I'm makin really good progress with the whole thing but a reason is all Ima need to remind everyone just how fuckin petty I can be.
And just like that, the seriousness was gone from Laroux's face, quickly taken back by that lighthearted smirk.
Xavier Laroux:
See ya out there, partner.
Backstage we see the arrival of Mason Van Stanton being flanked by his client, the enormous and very dangerous Clyde Sutter. Booing can be heard from the fans in attendance tonight as agent and client make their way into the arena and through the hallway. Van Stanton seems calm, cool, and collected but the temperamental Sutter seems enraged.
Clyde Sutter:
I hope we’re not being jerked around here, Mason!
Mason Van Stanton:
Trust me, Mr. Sutter, everything is fine. You wrestled last week and won, correct? Now you get another match against this Matt Stone fellow.
Clyde Sutter:
Ya said that about SCW and they let me go! Ya said that about GCW and they never did give me a contract! What makes this place any different?!
Van Stanton sighs.
Mason Van Stanton:
Glory Braddock, who hates me because of some bloody feud that is older than the damned Hatfields and McCoys. And she hates you...well…
Sutter grins nastily.
Clyde Sutter:
Yeah, I know why she hates my damn guts.
Mason Van Stanton:
Right, lets not dwell on that. This is a new place and unlike SCW where she had some influence and GCW which she owns, she has no power here in MWE. Here you have a legitimate chance to make a name for yourself. All you need to do is to make an impact, show the world exactly what you are capable of, and given enough opportunities there will be no way anyone can blackball you from any promotion in the world. Or a better way to put it, as first MWE...then the world!
The Assassin rolls his eyes.
Clyde Sutter:
Y’know how damn corny that sounds, don’t ya?
Mason Van Stanton:
Yes, but you know what isn’t corny? Your match against Matt Stone. That is serious business; it is still early in your MWE tenure and you must win. So do try to keep that temper of yours in check.
Clyde Sutter:
Yeah, yeah, I hear ya...but…
Mason Van Stanton:
No ‘buts’, Mr. Sutter. Win the match.
The Assassin nods his head.
Clyde Sutter:
Yeah, I heard ya the first time! But what about after the match? I mean, you did say ya wanted me to make an impact.
Mason Van Stanton:
After the match? Well, after the match everything is fair game.
Clyde Sutter:
Great…
Mason and Sutter walk off.
Previously recorded...
The loud thud of a tire bangs into the ground and shakes the Millennium camera feed. Another one impacts the ground, shaking the feed. The first tire flips over again, showing the coral blue shirt of the wrestler who flipped it. The second tire drops with a thud, revealing a clever logo of a backwards cap wearing strong woman many Millennium fans would recognize as Bree S. The shot gets widened to see West Long outside training with Luna's muscle girl sister, Bree.
West Long:
Nice form.
Bree then wipes her forehead and takes a large drink from her red workout cup, sighing in relief after she does so.
Bree Smith:
Thanks.
Bree then looks over her shoulder to the MMVP Luna who's currently trying to get a perfect selfie of herself with the arena in the background.
Bree Smith:
You sure you don't want a turn, Luna? It's a great workout.
Luna Smith:
If I wanted to touch filthy tyres, I'd put on some coveralls, your old burgundy baseball cap and those beat up sneakers Mimi's still got. No, West's the power I'm the glamour.
As she then looks off, and captures a picture of herself.
West Long:
She's preserving all her energy, and aura - whatever - for tonight. X and Hate, so I don't blame her.
Bree Smith:
I just hope Millennium don't put you guys in the tag team division after tonight. I already lost to Mimi on a Twitter poll...Luna in the tag team division would really bring my stock down...
West Long:
Bring it up tonight, yeah. Make those wrestling fans who buy a BreeTee shirt or a Bree baseball cap that much richer by taking down MP & JS tonight.
Bree Smith:
Oh we plan to put some boots to their butts, and put ourselves on Rhett and Qiyara's radar. We'll overcome Scrivens and Mitchell Price, even if things start to go south...
Bree then squats and digs her hands under the tyre. She lifts with her legs and after a heavy grunt, she flips the tyre over, alerting Luna.
Bree Smith:
we'll turn the tables on them, with hashtag BreeStrength, and hashtag TeegSpeed.
Luna Smith:
I guess I'll tell all my followers where to get these boots after you're done with this... whatever this is.
West Long:
I'd say we've got one more set.
Luna Smith:
Don't injure my bodyguard by being too rough, Bree. Xaviar and that Andrew person went at him so I'd like to keep him in peak condition for tonight. I'm still expecting you to turn both of them inside out with those arms.
Which provokes a chuckle from the Warwolf.
West Long:
Yeah. If it happens, I'll spin them good for you.
Luna Smith:
Good. And you can probably spear them two, semantics...I want to win. Just like last week, and then maybe I'll throw my name into the Lockdown Championship contender hat. I have a BRAND new concept for when I'm champion.
Which intrigues West who stands up straight to hear it.
West Long:
Oh yeah?
Luna Smith:
Not now. I'll reveal it all later. Call me when you're done with farm training or whatever.
Luna slips on a pair of shades and then heads indoors.
West Long:
Ready for another set?
Bree Smith:
Just try and stop me.
As both West and Bree get to lifting up the tyre and nearly simultaneously flip them onto the other side simultaneously as the camera shakes and eventually falls to black.
Tag Team Match
Luna & West Long VS Xavier Laroux & Andrew Raynes
Laroux was not playing around tonight, clearly still pissed at how Luna and West ruined his comeback to MWE. He pushed the Star Of The Night back into the corner, pressing his forearm against her throat as he muttered unrepeatable words at the beautiful blonde. Halfway through the referee’s count, he stepped back and raised his hands, offering the former Lockdown champion a clean-ish break. Luna wanted nothing to do with him and quickly went to tag her bodyguard, who stepped over the top rope and walked in front of a slightly impressed Xavier. But despite the huge size difference, Your Favorite Drug charged with a flurry of punches and forearms that, in all fairness, Long barely felt. Or if he did, he surely didn’t show it. With an impressive ease, he shoved the former Cloud Gate champion to the mat and ran through it with a shoulder tackle, stopping right in front of Raynes on the apron. The two stared a hole through each other, a lot of bad blood between them after their match at the last PPV. And while the Warwolf had his back turned to Xavier, he jumped on his back and wrapped his arms around his neck in a sleeper hold. Long tried to escape from it, but this time his power wasn’t helping. Actually, the more energy he wasted trying to force through the submission, the tighter it seemed to become, with X putting more pressure on the throat. West then turned around and backed against the turnbuckle, not once but three times until Laroux lost his grasp. But Raynes had made the tag already, entering the ring and charging at the unaware West to hit him with a dropkick, not caring about his partner who was still behind the colossal opponent and was, once again, squashed by the 260 pounder. Now that Luna and Raynes were in the ring, the pace of the match picked up sensibly. The Star Of The Night’s Krav Maga background came in handy tonight as Luna traded strikes with the Embracer Of Hate. With a couple of throat jabs she sent him into the corner, where she followed with some knee strikes to the stomach. The last one was meant to be a running knee to the face but Andrew raised his boot to counter it, leaving Luna momentarily stunned. The veteran hoisted himself on the top rope, ready to fly down on the blond. But she quickly sprinted toward the corner and stepped up to the top rope, catching Raynes and driving him down with the always spectacular Night Skyfall (top rope spanish fly), worth a long count of two. Luna picked the opponent up, and Ranes hit a quick dropkick that caused Smith to fall out of the ring. Xavier didn’t waste a second and picked Luna up from the floor to whip her against the steel post. He would have done much worse to her if it wasn’t for Long threateningly approaching him. The Warwolf never saw Raynes coming, flying through the ropes and catching him with a suicide dive into a tornado ddt. With him down, Laroux could strike Luna down with the Narcoterrorism (bicycle knee strike). All Andrew had to do now was to take her back inside the ring and make the cover, but somehow Luna was still in the match. Raynes pulled her up by the air and got raked in his eyes by the former Lockdown champion who then rushed to the corner to make the tag to a still stunned West Long. The Warwolf still hadn’t recovered from the nasty ddt on the concrete, and could’ve used some more time to regain his bearings. But duty called, and West took the stage. Rayned delivered a flurry of kicks and went for his Code Of The Sith (running single leg high knee). Almost on instinct alone, West countered it with his one handed pop up spinebuster, stumbling into a cover. Raynes kicked out just in the nick of time. West dragged Raynes up by the hair and the Embracer Of Hate rocked him with a headbutt. Long fell back into the ropes, not too far from Luna who could’ve made the tag. But she didn’t, still looking pretty dazed by Xavier’s bicycle knee. And speaking of Xavier, he entered the ring after Raynes tagged himself out. Seizing the opportunity, Your Favorite Drug delivered another Narcoterrorism, this time to the Warwolf and sealed the win for his team. WINNER: Xavier Laroux & Andrew Raynes BY: Pinfall (Narcoterrorism), 12:23 |
We open backstage where we find Mason Van Stanton, the devious and cunning manager of MWE’s newest signee, Clyde Sutter. Van Stanton is dressed in his typical black suit and black silk shirt. His smug smirk oozes confidence as he stares into the camera.
Mason Van Stanton:
Arrogance is the downfall of nations…
Van Stanton chuckles and shakes his head.
Mason Van Stanton:
Apologize, I should dumb it down for the simpletons who do not understand the concept of a proverb. Arrogance and overconfidence can and will destroy even the best of us in any business, sport, or what have you. Mr. Matthew Stone may think he isn’t like most men but it is clear that he is underestimating my client. But that’s ok, my client is used to being underestimated. He has been underestimated and looked down upon all of his life. Powerful people thought he was incapable of making it but when they finally saw his potential they got afraid, they were afraid that he may surpass them. They knew that if given the chance, “The Assassin” Clyde Sutter would become the next big thing in professional wrestling. But Mr. Sutter was lucky enough to have me by his side. Mr. Sutter and I are more than just client and agent. We are a team. I do my job, which is to give him opportunities and he does his job and trust me, Mr. Stone, he is very good at his job.
Van Stanton pauses for a moment. Then, as if on cue, Clyde Sutter emerges from stage left. He is dressed in his black wrestling trunks, black boots and black knee pads. A sinister glare is etched across his evil face.
Clyde Sutter:
Where did you get this guy? Listen up you pencil neck piece of shit, I will tell you exactly where I came from. I came from a place people like you know nothing about. People like you take for granted every fucking thing you have but me? I had to fight for everything I have ever earned. I have had to fight and to hurt people just to survive, just to live another god damn day! Where did I come from? I came from hell and I am bringing hell with me to MWE. What happened last week to Jada Hashford was just the beginning. Cause y’see, Mason here is a lot of things…
He looks back at his agent and chuckles before turning back to the camera.
Clyde Sutter:
….and a lot of the shit you heard about him? It’s true. But one thing he isn’t is a liar. He really meant it when he said I am very good at my job. I am good at my job and I enjoy my job and what exactly is my job? It’s the same damn thing I have had to do all my life and that is hurt people in order to survive. Last week I kicked Jada’s head off her god damn shoulders and tonight you may meet her same fate. Or maybe I’ll kick your ass another way? Hell, there are numerous ways I can end you. Violence and brutality is what I do best and you will learn the error of your ways, you will learn that underestimating me and looking past me is grave mistake.
Mason Van Stanton:
I do wish you luck, Mr. Stone. I would say ‘may the best man win’ but let’s face facts…
Van Stanton winks at the camera.
Mason Van Stanton:
...the fix is in.
The camera comes backstage where we see a now more familiar sight of Matt Stone and a blonde woman we’ve seen him with, Nicole Rossi, talking back and forth, apparently oblivious to the fact that there’s a camera watching them.
Matt Stone:
I’ve been telling you for a week now that I wasn’t saying you were unimportant, sheesh. It was simply stating that the knowledge of what you do was completely irrelevant to her, I don’t know how else to explain it.
Nicole Rossi:
Maybe try explaining it better because you’re doing a terrible job so far!
Nicole throws both of her hands up in frustration before she places them on her hips, her eyes focused on Matt as she appears to be glaring in his direction. Matt sighs and starts again.
Matt Stone:
So you’re an important person, right?
He waits for her to nod to make sure she is still following along before continuing.
Matt Stone:
But to Teagan, you have no special signif-oh no.
Matt cuts himself off as he notices the very person, much like Beetlejuice, was starting to appear down the hall like Deedee would while Dexter worked on an experiment. Teagan notices Matt and Nicole there as she quickly tucks her phone into the back pocket of her shorts. There’s an amused smirk on her face as she takes in the tense situation of the moment.
Teagan Gallagher:
Trouble in paradise?
Rolling his eyes, Matt wastes little time quipping right back to her.
Matt Stone:
Now that you’re here, yes. But of course you’re used to there being trouble, aren’t you, seeing how much you’ve had with your partner as of late. Or have you two kissed and made up, now?
Teagan Gallagher:
Why are you so obsessed with me and Bree? It’s a little creepy.
Teagan winces as she puts up both of her hands like she wants to keep some distance between herself and Matt.
Teagan Gallagher:
I’d worry more about you and your little girlfriend arguing.
Matt’s eyes widen at what Teagan just said, expecting Nicole to immediately refute what was brought up though when she doesn’t, he turns to her.
Matt Stone:
Really? You’re going to harp on me for something I said that you took out of context but you’re perfectly fine being portrayed as my “little girlfriend”?
At the conclusion of his question, Matt does the air quotes as smoothly as Joey Tribiani had.
Nicole Rossi:
Why are you so offended by me being your girlfriend? Am I not good enough for you?
Matt Stone:
Oh for God’s sake, Niles!
Matt blurts out, his knowledge for 90’s sitcoms seemingly never ceasing. Rather than go down that road, he turns to readdress Teagan.
Matt Stone:
See what you’ve done? You’ve offended her so much she’s stopped making sense.
Teagan Gallagher:
I don’t know, sounds like you might have a real problem on your hands.
Teagan makes a face as she tries her best to keep the smile from showing now that Matt was in even bigger trouble with his female companion. Matt looks to the ceiling as if the answers were going to just fall from the sky before shaking his head and looking back at Teagan.
Matt Stone:
The only problem I have is your constant annoyances showing up each and every week. Last week you nearly ran Nicole over and this week you’re poking your nose into my business. It’s almost like you’ve got a problem with me.
Teagan Gallagher:
Oh wow! Who could ever have a problem with you?!
Teagan’s voice is filled with sarcasm as she throws both of her hands up in the air.
Nicole Rossi:
I think she’s being-
Matt Stone:
I know she’s being sarcastic!
Matt states in frustration, clearly getting more disheveled as this goes on.
Matt Stone:
People may have problems with me, but they shouldn’t be trying to resolve them in the hallway. If you want to fight me, there’s a ring out there and an audience that would love to see me show why I’m the best wrestler in this company!
Teagan Gallagher:
Oh please, nobody believes you’re the best wrestler in any company.
Teagan reaches out with one hand to gently slap it up against the side of Matt’s face a couple of times, an amused smirk on her face.
Teagan Gallagher:
Stick to not getting in trouble with your girlfriend before you throw out some challenges.
Matt Stone:
I believe it
He says almost defeated as she slaps his face, though clearly not happy with it.
Matt Stone:
And she is not my girlfriend! She’s my…
He pauses, turning to Nicole.
Matt Stone:
What’s the right term?
Nicole crosses her arms in front of her chest as she raises one eyebrow.
Nicole Rossi:
You tell me.
Ignoring the awkward silence, Matt turns back to Teagan.
Matt Stone:
Yeah, she’s my you-tell-me and I don’t need you to tell me what I should or shouldn’t be doing. So if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a match with an assassin to prepare for.
With that, and without looking back to see how Nicole has reacted to any of this, he walks off as confidently as he could muster. Nicole and Teagan exchange one final glance before Nicole is running after Matt to give him another piece of her mind.
Singles Match
Matt Stone VS Clyde SutterA match up of two people with an outside influence and other then that physical contrast as Matt Stone looks upward toward the 6’6 man dubbed ‘The Assassin’ who doesn’t offer any tell emotionally on what he might do. Stone circles around Clyde Sutter standing in the center of the ring before trying to wring his arm whilst jawing and wrestle him down but Sutter shoves the technician off before he pops Matt with a straight right hand to the mouth. The next minute is Clyde throwing poor Matt Stone across the ring in a couple of different ways including just throwing him as close to the lights as possible with a back body drop and letting Matt crash to earth. Matt then rolls out of the ring holding his back wanting a timeout. Nicole barks out some advice while Matt literally rolls his eyes at that before continuing the verbal berating of Clyde. Then the spit flies from Matt and Clyde starts to get heated and gets out of the ring to start chasing the technician. They loop around and Matt then dropkicks the steel stairs into Clyde’s knee to turn the tide. After being admonished for his behavior, Matt just rolls back into the ring to break the ten count before rolling back out and getting to work on that knee, even ramming it a second time into the stairs before throwing him back in. And Stone is hooking Clyde’s knee to the ropes and stretching it...then stomping on that knee cap. Sutter tries to fight up at first normally, shoving Matt back with great power but Matt grabs hold of the leg and dragon screw leg whips him before transitioning beautifully into a single leg which Clyde Stutter is coached by his manager Mason to get to the ropes near him and he does. Matt isn’t disturbed but rather he’s looking to then sit with a variation of a leg lock but The Assassin isn’t a stranger to fighting dirty himself it seems and rakes Matt’s eyes causing protest from Nicole and Mason telling her to back off. Clyde starts to fight to his feet but Matt goes low dropkick on the knee but when he tries to wrestle him down yet again, he’s just brute strengthened up in the air for a one man flapjack! He even grits his teeth further and lifts Stone up into the air balancing on just one leg in a Military Press before just spiking him with a beautiful Spinebuster in his Cruciform Slam! This earns him a two and this time Mason is the one barking but toward the ref and it’s Nicole’s turn to tell him to shut up in very unflattering language! Sutter isn’t deterred though as he wills himself to power Matt Stone back up yet again with a deadlift gutwrench, still just balancing on one leg before just throwing Matt Stone like a sack of garbage on the canvas! He’s then stretching his leg out before looking to time Matt up for another one of his big moves, the Clothesline from Hell. He’s a step slow running so Matt is able to dodge and in one motion go behind and drop him with a Stone Cutter(Leverage neckbreaker)! It’s a cover but only a two and yet more protests from Nicole about the ref. It’s been even between the two to this point where Matt uses his experience to then continue attacking that leg, putting on an Indian Death Lock this time. But now the Assassin after taking some of the pain starts to fire up from that position and uses his longer reach to then wallop Stone with chops and punches until the hold is broken! As Matt rebounds up, he’s then decapitated with a Clothesline all the way from Hell! When the cover happens, Matt gets his foot on the rope with Nicole pointing it out for the ref the entire way while Mason is just telling The Assassin to stay on him. And the Assassin does that as he’s again hobbled on that leg but setting up for his Judge Jury & Execution(Repeated Powerbomb) and Nicole springs into action by waltzing over and shoving Mason! The ref has his eyeballs on the managers fighting even if Clyde doesn’t. Stone does see the ref out of position and gets out of this predicament with an uppercut straight to the family jewels and the big man felt that. Nicole then scampers away when she sees in the corner of her eye what happened...and Matt Stone small packages the larger man after the blow to the family jewels, his feet hooking the ropes and gets the three! As soon as the three count happens, Stone and Nicole literally book it out of the ring as Clyde’s temper is showing signs of erupting and they literally flee like people who robbed the bank and got away with it for now! WINNER: Matt Stone BY: Pinfall (Small Package), 9:46 |
Heading backstage here in Grand Rapids we see a very stressed out looking Karen Eldon roaming the halls. She is wearing a pink little lace ribbed mini dress not ready to compete at all tonight. Nonetheless she looks like she is on a mission as she roams the halls here at Millennium. With her phone to her ear she storms the halls.
Karen Eldon:
Yes I get it, Doctor. Clyde may not be medically cleared by the show. But he seems fine! He only winces a bit and he’s starting to get a solid two hours of sleep a night with those pills you gave him. He’ll be ready to go, this rubber match with Warblade is super important to him.
Stopping to hear a voice on the other end Karen’s face turns to that of one of disgust as Karen snaps back at the Doctor.
Karen Eldon:
Who are you to say that Clyde can and can’t do physically. He will be ready to go!
Karen angrily pushes the button on her phone not quite as satisfying as slamming the phone down for a hang up but it will do. She turns the corner looking upset Leaning her back against the wall realizing that her son may not actually be able to make it to this rematch like she had hoped. As she sits there the camera pans out almost like a TV Sitcom to show the man of the hour, the hometown boy, Duke Andrews. He gets the popular sitcom TV character reaction as they can be heard from the arena. He waits on them to finish before speaking to Karen.
With the crowd cheering, it didn’t matter if Michigan’s Favorite Son was a heel or a baby face. He stood there in his new ring gear, the Michigan Handgun logo on the right side of his singlet in white, 616 on the left side in red.
Duke Andrews:
Tell the kid to pop two aspirin, a large bottle of water, throw some dirt on it, and he will be fine. Sounds like that hollyweird lifestyle is really weighing him down.
Karen Eldon:
We all can’t be Mr. Six foot three, manly man like you now can we?
Karen says this while also very clearly eyeing him up and down, something that Duke seems to be all too used to. This draws a few whistles from the crowd. But as she looks him over an idea does seem to pop into her head.
Karen Eldon:
Speaking of that, say my son can’t make it to the match. And I needed a partner in my match with Warblade. Perhaps you would be there to save a damsel in distress? Be my Prince Charming?
While saying this she gets increasingly closer to Duke, while also fixing her dress not exactly the most subtle.
Duke Andrews:
You know better than anyone that I’m the man with unlimited stamina and how I can go all night long, but I don’t think that I can be that man to take Cledus’ spot against Warblade. Got something already brewing. Especially after I take out Seth tonight. Sorry to disappoint you, sweet cheeks. But for now, it’s a pass.
This only serves to make Karen more stressed out but she takes a deep breath figuring that Clyde will still make it even if her Plan B didn’t work out.
Karen Eldon:
Well normally I would leave in a huff but I heard you know the place well, any good spots you would recommend you taking me later?
He gave her a good once over.
Duke Andrews:
Depends on what you’re in the mood for. Upscale? Bar food? I have a standing reservation at a little place around the corner.
Smacking her ass as he stepped past her.
Duke Andrews:
You just tell me what you’re in the mood for.
The two having long had a flirtatious relationship Karen just rolls her eyes at how cavalier he was to do that. But nonetheless the two walk away together.
Karen Eldon:
You know, I always do upscale, let's see what the bar scene is like…
The two walk off together, Karen's night at least empty with wrestling inside the ring, Duke still with a giant match ahead of him. But the crowd can still be heard chanting his name clearly having their full support tonight.
Tag Team Match
BreeTee Committee VS Mitchell Price & Jimmy Scrivens
Huge test bench for the team of Price and Scrivens, scheduled to take on the former Tag champions Bree and Teagan. Gallagher started things off against Scrivens himself. Jimmy offered a handshake to begin the match, Teagan didn’t seem too convinced but eventually accepted. Her hunch was right, as soon as she grabbed Jimmy’s hand, the home state boy (born in Detroit) kicked her in the stomach and dropped her down with a snap ddt. Wasting no time, he went for a cross armbreaker right away, but Teegs got into the ropes for the break. A dropkick by Jimmy connected to the former tag champion’s shoulder, and that left arm started bothering Teagan. Scrives insisted and snapped said arm over her shoulder a few times before twisting it and tagging Price in. As the Standout rose to the top rope, Scrivens wrenched the arm further, hyperextending the elbow. Mitchell jumped and drove down a double axe handle to the arm. Price kept working on that limb, twisting and bending it with various holds. Teagan struggled to break free and eventually managed to reverse the hold into a wrist lock of her own. Running toward the ropes, she stepped on the middle one and jumped on the top, flipping him over with a springboard armdrag. Then she bowed out, making the tag to Bree. The powerhouse locked horns with Mitchell, who still had the power advantage and moved in position to hit a backdrop suplex. They both got back up and Price went for a clothesline. Bree ducked it and connected with a snap german suplex, keeping the hold around the waist with the clear intention of completing the sequence of three. But Price had other plans for the night and blocked the attempt, switching positions and moving behind Smith’s back. He pushed her against the ropes, receiving the tag from Jimmy and rolled her over with an O’Connor roll. But rather than pinning her, he rolled through and lifted her for another suplex. On her way down, Scrivens caught her with a neckbreaker and made a quick cover. Bree kicked out in two and half..Jimmy with a dropkick sent her into the corner, where he delivered a couple of elbow strikes until Bree switched positions with her and hit a series of chops that backed him down to the center of the ring.. Scoop slam by Smith who then sprinted toward, bouncing back for a knee drop. Gallagher made the tag and connected her Tee For Two (630 corkscrew senton as soon as Bree moved away, hooking the leg for a cover. Mitchell literally ran through Bree to break up the pin. Tag team wrestling at its finest tonight in Grand Rapids. Both teams showed great chemistry and while this wasn’t a surprise for the BreeTee Committee who proved time and time again how greatly they can work together, nobody was expecting to see Pierce and Jimmy work so well together on their second match as a team. But the two men, possibly because of their similar background, were definitely on the same page, In a particularly chaotic moment, following a pin break up by Teagan, all four competitors were in the ring, trading blows in one huge brawl. Soon Mitchell and Jimmy got the best respectively of Bree and Teagan, and dropped them over the top rope on opposite sides of the ring with stereo belly to belly suplexes. Then they nodded at each other, each of them charging at the opposite side of the ring and connecting a suicide dive, Jimmy on Bree and Price on Gallagher. They brought them back in the ring and made a double cover with coordinated moonsaults, but the former tag team champions kicked out almost at the same moment. As impressive as their performance was though, one small mistake was all it took them to see the advantage they built disappear in the blink of an eye. Jimmy called for a powerbomb into a double knee backbreaker, but Price already had Teagan over his shoulders in an electric chair position. There was a moment of impasse where the two partners argued about what to do, then Scrivens climbed on the top rope, ready to jump with a diving clothesline for the Doomsday Device. But that hesitation gave Gallagher time to recover and counter with a victory roll. Jimmy obviously missed the target and crashed on the mat, unable to recover in time to break up the pinning predicament. WINNER: The BreeTee Committee BY: Pinfall (Victory Roll), 12:17 |
Inside one of the locker rooms we find the duo of Neal Durden Gareth Prichard Jr. and the Cloud Gate Champion, Lowri Moss. The two Welsh wrestlers, who are both dressed in their respective ring attire, are in the midst of finalising their preparations for their upcoming match against the Fabulous pair of Summer Collins and Jessica Lasiewicz, with Lowri sat taping her wrists, while Neal Gareth cracks his neck from left to right. After finishing taping her left wrist, Lowri looks in the direction of her partner.
Lowri Moss:
Your first match in three and a half months, and your first proper match in four months-- any nerves?
A noncommittal shrug follows Lowri’s assertion. Gareth grabs the briefcase he has been carrying all this time and lets out a sigh.
Gareth Prichard Jr:
To be honest, it was about time. I was getting antsy just getting a chair and watching champions wrestle each other. Like, don’t get me wrong… I had the best seat in the house, but it’s good to remind them what’s really lurking, you know?
Lowri gives a nod of her head.
Lowri Moss:
I’m not surprised you started getting antsy, I’m surprised that you were okay with going so long without wrestling-- you know I start getting antsy if I go a few weeks between matches, never mind a few months.
Gareth stretches letting out a sigh.
Gareth Prichard Jr:
Eh!
He shrugs and shakes his whole body trying to get loose.
Gareth Prichard Jr:
It’s not like there weren’t any submission competitions out there to fill the void. Then again, I have some unfinished business and I have a newfound love for seeing everyone on their toes whenever myself and this briefcase are around.
Lowri casts a quick glance towards the Cloud Gate title beside her on the bench, before then returning her attention to Gareth.
Lowri Moss:
Remember what I told you though, if you cash that thing on me, you’re getting dumped.
He chuckles at her remark and just lets out a sigh and smirks.
Gareth Prichard Jr:
While that belt holds significance, the one holding it isn’t who I wanted to take it from. Take that as you might…
Lowri responds with a shrug of her own.
Lowri Moss:
Are you ready to show Summer and Jessica who’s really the best tag team around here?
Gareth takes a look at both the belt and the briefcase before turning his attention to Lowri.
Gareth Prichard Jr:
It’s a shame they lost the tag belts...
He arranges his vest a bit before tweaking his neck.
Gareth Prichard Jr:
Not that I would’ve wasted the briefcase on the tag belts… but, I would’ve loved to see their faces if I motioned to make the briefcase effective mid-match. Then again, this might serve as a small reminder of what’s lurking for everyone else. I mean, it’s not like a quarter of the roster wants to create chaos, another quarter says they’re a problem, another quarter thinks they’re god’s greatest gift to the human race… the last quarter is normal people and Dalek.
He shrugs and grabs a water bottle, as Lowri laughs at the last part of his statement.
Lowri Moss:
I’m not sure the Dalek would appreciate being lumped in with any amount of humans.
Gareth Prichard Jr:
That’s why it has its own category…
Lowri smiles wryly.
Lowri Moss:
You know you mentioned people saying that they’re a problem… I think Fabulous are about to have a Pendragon-shaped problem. It’s amazing how many teams came out of the woodwork in FGA after we vacated the world tag titles, knowing they wouldn’t have to face the team who were champions for six hundred days… even if this only ends up being a one-off, perhaps it’s time we provide everyone with a reminder of exactly who we are.
Gareth smirks at Lowri’s remarks.
Gareth Prichard Jr:
Most of the members of this roster and most of the fans of this promotion haven’t looked outside of what’s in front of their noses, so they probably think we’re just some made up duo of two wrestlers who just so happen to be from the same part of the world and share a finishing move… like who would pair up two wrestlers based up on that alone?
Lowri Moss:
With no way of knowing what kind of chemistry, if any, the two would have, right?
The Welsh duo joke about how they originally came to be a team, the better part of five years ago.
Lowri Moss:
I don’t know, but someone did, and all told, it didn’t turn out too badly, did it?
Neal Gareth shrugs, seemingly finishing up his stretching.
Gareth Prichard Jr:
I wouldn’t argue against it. Now, keep being amazing… we have work to do.
Lowri gets up from the bench, picking up the Cloud Gate title as she does so.
Lowri Moss:
Shall we?
Gareth grabs the briefcase and gives one look to the belt Lowri is holding, and laughs as he points to the door.
Gareth Prichard Jr:
You first...
As the pair move towards the locker room exit, ready for their match, the camera cuts away.
Singles Match
Melissa Reeves VS Keelan JayceTo say that neither of them were pleased with this match was an understatement. Surely the timing looked suspicious, but in the management’s defense, a match between two of the contenders to the World Title was not so unusual. Anyway, the bell sounded and the match was underway. It started with a classic collar and elbow tie up, the former World Champion immediately transitioning into a side headlock trying to limit her former boyfriend’s movements. Keelan kept wiggling and twirling in an attempt to escape the holds Mel put him in, getting out of the wristlock with a cartwheel and sliding behind her back to connect a german suplex. Reeves blocked the attempt with her leg, swinging her elbow back. Once again KJ’s reflexes and his evasion skills allowed him to duck the shot and pick her up for a blue thunder bomb, placing his leg over her chest to make the cover for an early count o f two. The match continued on the same track, Melissa tried to prevent Keelan to gain some speed and space for his unique tricking offense. But if Keelan seemed to know exactly what his fellow Australian was doing, the same couldn’t be said for Meliissa, mostly because Keelan’s unique style made him utterly unpredictable. Avoiding his kicks, often brought with athletic displays like cartwheels and flips, was almost impossible and soon Reeves found herself laying on her back. Showtime for KJ who connected the standing corkscrew shooting star press for another count of two. To change the course of the match, Mel needed to come up with something surprising that would catch her opponent off guard, or hope he’d make a mistake. A perfect mix of both allowed her to turn the tides, first by blocking a front kick and countering it with a step-over spinning wheel kick that sent KJ into the corner. He blocked her splash attempt with a boot to the face but when he went to the second turnbuckle and jumped for a missile dropkick, Mel sidestepped and dodged the bullet. She followed with a hard kick to the ribs that sent Keelan rolling on his back, allowing her to connect a jumping elbow drop and obtain the first near fall of her match. Reeves stayed in control with a running knee strike in the corner and began to kick Jayce repeatedly. A high kick to the side of the head knocked the man down, Reeves quickly picked him up but Keelan rolled her up pinning her close to the ropes. So close that part of his leg was touching the ropes, forcing the referee to interrupt the count. Back to his feet, he went for another roll-up, this time toward the center of the ring. The Reaver kicked out of it in two and popped up to her feet, ducking a bit right hand from KJ and doubling him over with a kick to the gut before dropping him on his head with a cradle ddt.. Things got really exciting now, the fast paced back and forth action kept the fans on the edge of their seats with a lot of false finals. For Keelan, the swinging neckbreaker/True Blue combination was the closest to three he ever got, Reeves came just as close with her Reaver Slam followed by the Death From Above. Both of them really wanted this win to keep the momentum after their successful tag team effort on Riot ten days ago. Keelan pulled out something we don’t see everyday from him to try obtaining this big whin, locking Melissa in a tilt-a-whirl armbar in the middle of the ring. Too far from the ropes, unable to wrestle her way or to power out of it, she did the only thing she could do in this situation, shifting her position and pinning KJ, forcing him to let her go. She was favoring her arm when he charged in, barely ducking his clothesline and catching him with a dropkick on the rebound. With the right arm clearly bothering her, she relied on her legs, delivering multiple kicks to the Australian. Knocking him down with a roundhouse opened the way for a 450 splash, still not enough to get the three. Reeves waited until Keelan got back to his feet and rocked him with a jumping knee strike, prelude to the Facial Deconstructor that earned her a hard fought victory. WINNER: Melissa Reeves BY: Pinfall (Facial Deconstructor), 13:37 |
The tall green garage door opens in the back of the Van Andel Arena. Griff jumps out from the side of the screen wearing a Duke Andrews t-shirt over his custom Grand Rapids Griffins jersey before skating out of the frame. The headlights of a black Mercedes Benz G Wagon pull into the building before stopping.
Peyton Holland:
I feel like we are going to see all of his Super Cars tonight.
Ambra Monroe:
He has been talking a lot lately about the money he’s made.
As the lights cut off the door opens and Duke slowly emerges from the drivers seat. The pop from the small crowd, thanks to useless gathering limitations from the useless governor, is still deafening to the point that it hasn’t been that loud since the last Culder Cup victory.
Duke Andrews:
Daddy’s home.
As he places his black face mask on, because safety first, the image is a play on the ‘Pure Michigan’ logo, but says ‘My Governor Is an Idiot”. He grabbed a leather duffel bag and slung it over his shoulder as he made his way further into the building.
Duke Andrews:
When I stepped foot in this company, there was one goal. That’s it. Everything that had led me to this point..
He paused as he peeled the mask off. Getting his political stance across before proceeding. He was once again dressed to the nines. A custom powder blue sport coat, a white button down shirt, his Rolex on his left wrist.
Duke Andrews:
When I had Devin Hearst in front of me. I let the better of my emotions get to me. When I had Seth dead to rights, I let the better of my emotions get to me. When I smashed Christian Michaels’ face to mush, I let my emotions get to the better of me. There’s been a constant theme since I signed my name on the dotted line. But as they say, when you fail you can either change and better yourself or continue to be a failure. That word is not associated with me. I built my name in the greatest city in the world, right here. I built my reputation as being the hardest worker in the game, right here. Fifteen years ago I crossed the same bridge I stand on right now. I had to make the decision to continue to be the midcard guy that wouldn’t ever get over, or did I want my name in the marquee every single night.
He tossed his bag to one of the crew members as he looked back into the camera.
Duke Andrews:
That moment of realization came moments after I let it slip through my hands once again. That moment where I allowed the situation to get the better of me. That moment where I had to admit that Seth Iser was better than me.
Those words once would have made Duke hurl in disgust. But today he stands proud.
Duke Andrews:
Where I stand on the fence doesn’t matter. I don’t care if I’m in Phoenix and get booed out of the arena. Or here, where I can commit murder in front of these people and I’ll be harolded as a GOD. That has never been my game. Pandering does nothing. What does move my needle, is knowing that I am the best pure fucking wrestler in not just this company. Not just this region. Not just this country. Not even this hemisphere, but in the entire world. So tonight, Seth Iser.
Duke smirks as he continues he slow stroll into the back.
Duke Andrews:
Tonight Seth Iser. Let’s not call it a rematch. Let’s not say it’s round two. You know it’s not. I know you better than most people think. You haven’t mentioned me much since our last encounter. You saw the change, didn’t you? You aren’t getting the riled up angered bear. You know that. You know that I can’t out dirty you in that ring on most nights. But you know that tonight it’s going to be a fight you’ve never experienced. Finally, Seth, finally my head is clear of all the other bullshit. Maybe a night with Karen was all that was needed to shoot some extra frustration out.
A quick wink as he stops walking, standing in front of a framed picture in the corridor that’s used for the concerts and games to get to the main floor. The image is of himself holding the BUD World Heavyweight Championship in the air. Signed. Dated. 2006.
Duke Andrews:
But I do thank you Seth. You showed me the path I was on wasn’t going to be enough. So let me repay you the favor tonight. Before your big match with Melissa, and the rest of the Riot crew. Let me show you that you created this monster.
Fade.
Tag Team Match
Fabulous VS Pendragon
A highly anticipated match between two of the best tag teams in the world today, but also an opportunity for Jessica to get one back on Lowri after the losing effort to capture the Cloud Gate championship from one week ago. Gareth and Jessica started things off, and the Archangel immediately got in The Artist Formerly Known As Neal Durden’s face, accusing him of costing her the title a week ago. Prichard answered with a noncommittal shrug and clocked Lasiewicz with a forearm to the jaw. Waistlock by The King Of Failure, reversed by Jessica but Gareth elbowed out of it. Swiftly moving behind the former tag champion, GPJ pulled her into a ripcord knee strike, knocking her down and working her on the mat. Unlike his “Neal Durden” days, Gareth favored a slow and methodical pace where once he would have taken it to the air already, a change of pace and attitude that somehow surprised Lasiewicz. The technical exchange between them was something the fans will be talking about for a while, revealing a side of Gareth that often went unnoticed because of the flashy style he used. Holding Jessica in a wrist lock, he stretched out to reach Lowri’s hand, making the tag. Irish whip to Lasiewica followed by a jumping knee into the corner by Neal who transitioned onto the apron leaving the stage to the Cloud Gate champion who stepped in with her Scarlet Barrage. Snapmare and kick to the spine before making a quick tag to Neal. Everyone, Lowri included, was expecting him to climb the post and go for his Starlight (shooting star press) but instead he entered the ring and connected a shining wizard as Jessica was starting to get up. He hooked the leg for the cover but Summer broke up the pin. Pendragon controlled the first part of the match, now applying wristlocks to Jessica and firing her against the ropes catching her with a double back elbow on the rebound. The break for Fabulous came when Lasiewicz caught Moss with a jawbreaker. Collins entered the ring and delivered a flurry of chops to the Cloud Gate champion, pushing her back into the ropes and sending her on the opposite side of the ring with an irish whip. Drop toe hold into a crossface submission. Mat wrestling wasn’t Lowri’s forte and despite her attempts to escape the submission, she couldn’t find a way out. What she could do though, was shifting her weight and pin Collins’ shoulders to the mat, forcing her to break it up. In the second part of the match, Fabulous started dictating the pace and controlling the opponents. Whether it was the worn out Lowri or the fresh Gareth once the Cloud Gate champion managed to make the tag after a sitout jawbreaker, Jessica and Summer showed once more why they have been the team to beat for so long in MWE. Tag from Collins to Lasiewicz who entered the ring with a Our Lady Peace on GPJ, sending him stumbling into a stunner from her partner. The Golden Kiss Of Dearth connected, but the cover only got a two count. She clubbed Gareth in the chest but he hit her back with an elbow, and they traded strikes. The King Of Failure won the exchange and eventually dropped the groggy opponent with a rolling cutter, only worth another near fall. Gareth tagged his girlfriend in and Lowri went hard on Lasiewicz, fully showing her incredible striking ability, clocking her with the Slice Of Heaven springboard enziguri. Summer made another save, Neal stepped in when the former tag champions tried to illegally double team Lowri and all four competitors were now in the ring, engaging in an all out brawl. A lot happened in that short time of confusion, including a low blow of Jessica on Prichard that the referee missed. With him down, Jessica and Summer hit Lowri with their In Your Dreams. Since Jessica was the legal member of the team, Summer didn’t bridge the German Suplex into a pin, letting her partner make the cover instead and obtain the win for Fabulous. WINNER: Fabulous BY: Pinfall (In Your Dreams), 15:23 |
We then head backstage where there’s a calmness in the air in this part of the locker room. Sitting in the locker room with a calm, coy expression is the current world champion of the promotion in Seth Iser. He has changed into a variation of his ring gear that’s more to the point and minimalist...black and silver. The color combination from him hasn’t been seen in a while but the shine of that silver knee brace is there as is the gleam of the gold that he won. He’s got his arms crossed but otherwise he’s fairly relaxed.
Seth Iser:
‘Stolen’ you keep saying…
He shakes his head at that one sentence as his face contorts into a frown and his eyes are pointed in disgust.
Seth Iser:
Come on brother...actually think about this other than through your own selfish lense. You were a beaten man then when I took it. You made one mistake that will haunt you for a while...and I beat you at your own damn element. Never take your eye off the enemy...especially someone like me. Why the hell would you look at Gareth when everybody knows the issues he had were with me? That was your mistake letting his brand of chaos affect you when the job wasn’t done for the biggest prize in the company.
And his face darkens as he’s also replaying that scene.
Seth Iser:
That mistake haunts you...I know it. You’ve probably replayed it in your mind a million times. Gareth ain’t going to haunt you like he might end up haunting me. Like he’s haunting all the other champions, really...I don’t fault him for that. But that’s one of the ticking timebombs over me. Duke...you might be one hell of a wrestler but you’re just now starting to realize what it takes to put it all together. You’re...still learning. The damn scramble is a worry, you’re a worry yet but...Gareth...where his mind is at and what he could be willing to do...to me or any other champion for that matter...that actually brings a chill down my spine a little...yet I’m proud of the boy at the same time. It’s...an odd feeling.
He pauses for a moment acknowledging that before his eyes glance down at the camera.
Seth Iser:
But back to the matter at hand, Duke...I see you’re now investing in trying to approach the game differently. Gone is the cammo and the out of control beard and now the suit and a more...old school professional wrestling look. Don’t think I haven’t noticed the change...you think such a detail would get past me? Dress for the part you wish to be after all…
And then his lips curl into half of a smile before gesturing at the championship around his waist.
Seth Iser:
And deep down...you’ve always wanted to be where I’m at.
The smile then goes away quite fast as the glare is on full display.
Seth Iser:
Yes...that’s the source To travel from city to city representing the company as the best professional wrestler they have to offer...hell I just wrestled Cordy Stevenson yesterday on pay per view doing just that in one of the biggest matches in that company’s history. Of course you’d want to be in THAT kind of position brother...few ever find themselves in that spot...and I don’t blame you for that. Really, I don’t...like I don’t blame Ol’ Fifteen time or Melissa...or anyone else wanting to take that shot at me. And the odds couldn’t be anymore in your favor tonight considering what I just went through yesterday…
He rubs the side of his neck while there’s still a little bit of gingerness on his step on the left side.
Seth Iser:
But you’re also starting to realize that age isn’t weakening me. It’s the opposite...it had sharpened my senses and my mind. You’re starting to figure it out, yes...fair play to applying all that talent and taking the sport and yourself a little more seriously. The same drive that had you turn on Christian to advance your career. I expected that and all but...just because you’re figuring it out doesn’t mean you’re where I’m at. No...not yet. Maybe not for a couple years yet...as I think I might still be getting better, myself…
He then taps the championship over his waist again as the adrenaline is starting to course through him and his step is more normal as he takes that slightest side step.
Seth Iser:
Yes...the day you stop learning in professional wrestling is the day you retire. Too many people reach what they think is the mountain top...and turn their brains off to learning more about the industry. I find myself doing some commentary...learning that prospective and preparation. It’s made me better at my job. You hang with Pierce and Megan who have two completely different road paths...two completely different perspectives...you talk wrestling...you talk life. You learn something different there as well. Hell, that powerbomb double team move that Pierce and I did? That’s Megan’s idea…
He then sneers colder at the camera.
Seth Iser:
And they thought we’d disband all because of this match...give me a break…
A dismissive roll of the eyes at that line of thought as the gleam of the championship matches the knee brace as he’s darkening his expression further.
Seth Iser:
I’m not exactly forgiving you for that stunt for wanting that damn bar fight to begin with either...nor am I feeling particularly generous. I don’t want another damn contender springing up while I’m defending this title in this damned Cage Scramble from the twisted mind of Chuck Matthews, that scheming bastard...so guess what? Every bit of vile and venom that runs through my veins? I’m taking it out on you tonight...in a brutal exhibition of professional wrestling. Maybe I’ll take your arm home with me tonight…
The darkened tone from the veteran has malicious intent but it’s pointed and in control rather than yelling and screaming.
Seth Iser:
Tonight is the difference between someone figuring it out...and the person who already understands what needs to be done. Duke, you’re a great talent with a horrible habit of creating your own trouble...and this is just the exhibition where I show why I’m the champion...and you’re just the guy complaining about what if.
With that he taps the world title around his waist and leaves the locker room.
Singles Match
Seth Iser VS Duke AndrewsAmbra Monroe: “Huge main event tonight, a rematch from Dark Web III. The title is not on the line, sure, but Seth Iser versus Duke Andrews is guarantee of a great match.” Peyton Holland: “Listen to the fans, I think this is the loudest cheers Duke has ever had in his life.” Ambra Monroe: “Well, we are in his hometown, Grand Rapids in Michigan, after all. The home field advantage might be a huge factor in this match.” Peyton Holland: “It will be interesting to see how it’ll affect Duke. As for Seth? He never cared much about being booed by the fans. He’s used to it and probably even thrives in this situation.” The two men stared at each other as the bell sounded with the crowd roaring loudly throughout the Van Andel Arena in anticipation, chanting Duke’s name over and over again. Iser didn’t seem impressed, flipping the bird at the fans and insulting their hometown. Duke’s hometown, and the Epitome Of Perfection didn’t take it well, blasting the World champion with a forearm to the face. More followed, taking the champion off guard with a quick flurry of blows. But after the initial surprise, Seth started firing back with equal intensity, making up ground and backing Michigan’s Favorite Son into the corner. Grabbing him by the arm, he fired Duke into the opposite corner with such strength that he bounced out of the corner, falling flat on his face.A few stomps to the back to frustrate his attempt to get up then Seth pulled Duke to his feet and whipped him into the ropes, catching him with a spinebuster on the rebound. Peyton Holland: “So far, the fans didn’t help Duke.” Seth kept taunting the crowd, and Duke with them. A questionable strategy that only pissed off Duke even more, fueling the Epitome Of Perfection who finally started fighting back. From a kneeling position he punched Iser in the gut, and again, and again until the Deity Of Destruction let go of his hair. Then he made it up to a vertical basis, firing off knife edge chops that lit up Seth’s chest. And after the chops came a quick one-two punch to the abdomen, followed by a swift kick to the thigh and a backfist before hitting the final roaring elbow to complete the Red, White And Blue Combo. The fans were on their feet, cheering for the hometown hero. They weren’t the only one on their feet tho, Seth was still standing at the end of the devastating combination. Stunned, wobbly on his legs but still standing. Duke looked surprised as well, the camera caught him whispering and audible “Son of a bitch” as Seth stepped toward him. Two steps, before flopping onto his chest for another loud roar from the people in Grand Rapids. Ambra Monroe: “Vintage Iser!” Peyton Holland: “I was wondering how he could still stand after that.” Following the count of two obtained with the cover. Duke tried to throw a right haymaker but Seth blocked it by grabbing his arm and pulling him into a ripcord lariat that almost beheaded the former founder of APE. The veteran slowed the pace of the match, working Duke on the mat and wearing him down while catching a breath himself. As pointed out by the commentary duo, the stamina could be a factor into this match as well. It was only three days ago that the MWE World Champion wrestled on Riot in a massive main event, one after his epic bout against Cordy Stevenson in FGA and between travel and all that jazz, he certainly had less time to recover than his opponent. He got Andrews deep in his sharpshooter, the Epitome Of Perfection was clawing to reach the nearby ropes and eventually, with great effort, succeeding in his task. Iser stood Andrews up to his feet and he lifted him into a fireman’s carry position. The man from Grand Rapids slipped away and quickly dropped Seth down with an inverted ddt. Another pinfall attempt, resulting into another two. Wasting no time, he locked the champion into a fujiwara armbar, but Seth was too close to the ropes and soon broke the submission. Duke surprisingly let him go right away. Peyton Holland: “What do you think about the new streak Duke is showing recently?” Ambra Monroe: “The whole better than you shtick? Not the most original thought, but it’s working for Duke, and he’s backing up his words.” Forever one of the dirtiest players in the game, Iser took the chance to go for the opponent’s eyes and, as the blinded Duke turned his back on him, connecting a big german suplex. As he got to his knees clutching his back, Duke couldn’t avoid a running knee strike by the champion. Cover and two count. Iser didn’t slow down, picking up the opponent to deliver three jabs and an European uppercut. Another cover, same result as before. Looking to capitalize on this moment, Seth pulled out the heavy artillery, throwing some of his most effective maneuvers in an attempt to crack Andrews’ resistance. The Icebreaker, the hangman’s neckbreaker and the Pillar Of Truth went all close to the three, but not quite there yet. Duke wasn’t giving up, another loss, no less in front of his people, was not an acceptable outcome. Against all odds, and perhaps against better judgement too, Andrews kept kicking out. And this lit up the fans. Ambra Monroe: “I never thought I’d see the day when Duke Andrews gets cheered like this.” Feeding off the energy from his fans, Duke came back with a second wind, throwing Iser into the corner. Andrews ran full speed towards Devereaux and went for a corner splash but the world champion moved away and the Epitome Of Perfection went stomach first into the hard turnbuckle and smashed his face off of the ring post. Dazed, he stumbled back toward Seth who kicked him in the stomach and dropped him down with the Deprivation DDT! This was the end, everybody thought this was when the World champion pulled the curtains on this mact. But the stubborn Michigan born still had some fight left in him, kicking out a moment before the three. Peyton Holland: “How in the world…” When all else fails, Seth still had one ace up his sleeve he could attempt, the Black Magic, the tombstone piledriver that gave him the win back at Dark Web III. He went for it but Andrews slipped off the grasp to land behind Seth. As he turned around, he got floored by the V-Trigger knee called Killshot. Seth was stunned, and before he could recover, Duke lifted him over his shoulders and dropped him down with the Andrews Effect. The crowd popped loud as the move connected, every single one of them counted the 1, 2, 3 along with the referee. WINNER: Duke Andrews BY: Pinfall (Andrews Effect), 17:52 |