Post by gvb on May 19, 2021 3:57:55 GMT -6
MWE Presents: Hic Sunt Leones (night 2)
Live from Wells Fargo Center in Des Moines, IA
Sunday, May 16th, 2021
"Waking Lions" by Pop Evil blasts out of the PA system, soundtrack to the video showing some actions from the wrestlers involved in night 2. Pyros go off on the stage in the usual, spectacular fashion and then we cut to the commentary booth. The four announcers talk about the stacked card, putting particular emphasis on the return of Tiff Rollins. Peyton Holland, apparently a fan of the Academy, speaks about the months Tiff spent there to get back in shape, her difficult relationship with Faith Savell and how we got to this match. They move on the main event, explaining once again the rules of the Cage Scramble and discussing potential strategies that could come into play, for example Megan and Seth working together to ensure that they will be the ones entering the cage, keeping the title withing the Triumvirate.
Moving backwards on the card, they talk about the rivalry between Leia LeBeau and Echo, who will fight in the cage for the Junior Heavyweight championship, and introduced the other title matches we will see tonight.
But first, some trios action to kick off the night.
The scene immediately opens up with Kyle Butler backstage. He’s alone in the midst of him shadow boxing. His right and left jabs are cutting through the air with precision. After a few moments of his light exercising he takes a breather. He walks further down the hall without a care in the world. Grabbing two bottles of water he walks further down the hall stopping in front of a locker room door. Pushing himself in he sees his tag team partner Bree talking to a recent grad from the Academy, Millie Smith. He looks at the two bottles of water in his hand. Then he looks at the Smith’s.
Kyle Butler:
Millie, I can go get you a bottle of water if you like.
Millie Smith:
Oh. Hi.
The younger Smith girl chimes in with as she encounters another member of the main roster.
Bree Smith:
A good tag team champion does need to stay hydrated.
Which makes Millie silently gasp that she could go from graduate to champions of Millennium's long standing, rich tag team division, because she was sharing the room with two former champions.
Bree Smith:
And how about one for your tag team partner, and one for Teegs when she gets back from wherever she's gone off two.
Kyle walks over to Millie and Bree. He offers them the bottle of water in his hands.
Kyle Butler:
Here, take mine. I’ll go get me and Teegs one later. Am I allowed to call her Teegs? She won’t mind that?
Bree Smith:
I think she'll allow it. If not, you can smooth things over with a cat teddy. She's a major cat girly. When we drive to arenas she won't play Zitch Dog. It's always Zitch Cat, and there's hardly any cats in cars but we always see one doggo being chauffeured to his or her doggy appointments.
Millie takes a quick sip of her water.
Bree Smith:
But enough about that. Tonight we need to take down those Nightfall guys, and…
Kyle Butler:
... roll tide over their asses, baybeeeeee!!
Bree Smith:
Baybreeeee!!
As Bree raises her bottle of water and clinks Millie's and Kyle's.
Bree Smith:
You think they're ready for that trios move Teegs, you, and I spent the better part of the afternoon yesterday putting the finishing touches to?
Kyle shakes his head.
Kyle Butler:
They won’t be.
Bree's phone then buzzes and she shows it to Kyle.
Bree Smith:
Looks like Teegs needs us, Dude. Millie, we'll catch up later.
Millie nods and waves goodbye to Kyle rather than saying it, PPV nerves after all.
Kyle Butler:
Duty calls.
Kyle looks over at Millie. With a smile on his face he tells her.
Kyle Butler:
You’re going to do great on the big show, the future is bright for Team Trillie. Ever need any advice. Get some training in. Shoot me a direct message on Twitter. Always available to help.
Kyle nods. Millie shyly nods back. And with that Kyle and Bree leave the locker room to find Teagan as the scene fades.
Trios Match
BreeTee Committe & Kyle Butler VS Nightfall Rising & Asher Miles
Opening night two was a match that may not have had much history behind it but was without a doubt a great appetizer for what’s about to come. On one side the team of Nightfall Rising and Asher Miles on their second match as a trio against a never seen before alliance between the former MWE Tag Champions the BreeTee Committee and one of their fiercest rivals in a not so far past, Golden Era’s own Kyle Butler. A lot has changed since those days, the three ironed out their differences and actually developed a solid friendship, especially Bree and Kyle. Both of them left the ring, leaving Teagan to start things off against Donovan Keane. Donnie extended his head toward the opponent, who didn’t even consider trusting him and kicked his hand away. Gallagher then rushed him, but the Nightfall trainee hit a hip toss and sent her down to the mat. Donnie held on for a headlock, but the Irish quickly escaped with a headscissors. Keane bridged out and both quickly kipped up back up to their feet, shooting a glare at each other.. Donovan launched himself into the ropes and went for a clothesline, but Teegs ducked it. He bounced back and went for a shoulder check, but the former tag team champion leap frogged him to avoid the collision. Keane for a third time bounced off the ropes, and this time Gallagher went on the offensive and dropped him with a drop toe hold. She held him on for an ankle lock, unaware that Jay tagged himself in and was now entering the ring. Her partner tried to warn her, but when she turned around, it was already too late to avoid the dropsault that sent her stumbling back into a German suplex from Donnie who then rolled out of the ring. Jay stepped over her body to jump on the middle rope and perform a beautiful springboard moonsault that earned him the first near fall of the match. but Fenric quickly rolls to his back and catapults Grin into the ropes. The two Gallaghers battled it out for a couple of minutes and it was Jay who gained the upper hand, pinning the woman in the corner and delivering ten punches at the turnbuckle. Shifting his position, he threw her to the center of the ring with a monkey flip, but Teagan landed on her feet and made the tag to Bree who entered the ring and turned Jay inside out with a clothesline. Bree and Kyle showed a surprising chemistry, tagging in and out frequently to keep Gallagher isolated from his teammates. Butler was now thumping Jay with heavy punches delivering what looked like a dozen of them before bending forward and starting to drive his shoulder in the young man’s midsection. Tag to Bree and the pair grabbed one of Jay’s arms each to whip him into the ropes, waiting for him to come back with a double clothesline. Gallagher ducked under it and kept running to the opposite side of the ring, bouncing back with a springboard moonsault press that took both of them out. He immediately tried to reach Asher in his corner but Bree tackled him to the mat. The powerhouse of the BreeTee Committee gave once again proof of her strength with a deadlift German suplex. Jay landed on his feet and charged once again toward his corner. Bree was on his way and tried to stop him once again with a clothesline but he rolled under it, leaping to reach Miles and finally making the tag. The Antares entered the ring like a house on fire, unleashing a volley of kicks and forearms to the blonde girl, doubling her over with a back kick to the stomach and planting her on her head with a hurricanrana driver. Popping up to his feet with a kip up, Asher took down both Bree’s partners and climbed up to the top rope, jumping and delivering a flying knee strike to the temple of Smith, knocking her down. Asher hooked both legs for the cover but Teagan saved her partner with a desperate dive. The Nightfall & Friend trio controlled the match from that moment on, even getting real close to the win with a Jay Kick/Dk Bomb combination. That lasted until Bree made the tag to Kyle, who entered the ring and ducked Donnie’s clothesline, sending him flying with a german suplex. Jay entered the ring and suffered the same fate, then it was Asher’s turn to launch himself into action with a springboard superman punch attempt. Kyle grabbed him in mid air and delivered a belly to back suplex, cleaning the ring and receiving a huge round of applause from the fans. He took a moment too long to soak in their cheers, not realizing that Keane was up to his feet and charging him, blasting him with a running single leg dropkick to the back of the head. Donovan lifted him and rested his feet on the top rope, holding him horizontally as he called for the DK Country. Bree went to grab Kyle’s ankle, blocking the dragon screw neck whip attempt. Jay came at full speed with a dropkick that sent Smith crashing on the floor below. Teagan avenged her partner with a superkick, but ate one from Asher right away. In these chaotic final moments, Kyle managed to get out from that precarious position and shoved Keane back, causing his head to collide with that of his friend Miles. The Antares got the worst of it, dropping down like a ton of bricks, while Donnie was still standing, although dazed. Kyle took full advantage of the situation, dropping him on his head with the Rooooooooooooooooooolllll TIDE!!, getting the win for his team. WINNER: Kyle Butler & BreeTee Committee BY: Pinfall (Rooooooooooooooooooolllll TIDE!!), 10:20 |
Drew Dream appears in the backstage area of the Wells Fargo Center with Robbie the interviewer. However, Drew is not wearing his usual backstage attire of a white hoodie with a yellow smiley face but instead a pink hoodie with a yellow smiley face. Drew wears a black beanie as his hair that has been dyed pink pokes out from the bottom. The final change to his backstage attire is a pair of shades.
Robbie Hayden:
Later it will be you, Drew Dream vs Jada Hashford in a Tables Matc-
Drew cuts off Robbie by raising his right hand in his face.
Drew Dream:
I have goosebumps just thinking about it, I don’t even think words can describe the feeling. I can’t wait.
Robbie Hayden:
What’s it going to feel like walking through that curtain? To enter the halls of the Wells Fargo Center, ready to compete against Jada Hashford at Hic Sunt Leones?
Drew Dream:
I’m telling you, it’s a feeling of elation. I got three words: Respect The Rules. For all my blood, my sweat, and my tears. This is about respect. You know who epitomizes disrespect? Jada Hashbrown! “Rock Candy” Drew Dream lives, breathes, and dies respect. And I will earn respect, by any means necessary. Let “Rock Candy” Drew Dream remind you what’s going to take place later at Hic Sunt Leones, Jada Hawthorn. First off, you’re going to suffer from a severe case of diarrhea and right before your match with The Airhead From Atlanta, you will stand behind the curtain and your music will start. And you will stand in the middle of the ring surrounded by tables. And then “Rock Candy” Drew Dream’s music will hit “bottles in a bucket full of ice”, then “Rock Candy” Drew Dream will put your candied ass through a table. Hold my shades, goober.
Drew hands his shades to Robbie
Drew Dream:
I’m going to beat Jada Hash-Slinging-Slasher or something. What was her name?
Robbie Hayden:
Jada H-
Drew Dream:
IT DOESN’T MATTER WHAT HER NAME IS! And one more thing, “Rock Candy” Drew Dream is going to do everything he can to win respect.
Drew Dream walks off leaving a stunned Robbie holding a microphone and a new pair of shades.
Tables Match
Jada Hashford VS Drew DreamThe bell rings and the two meet in the center. Drew goes for a tie up but Jada avoids it, preferring to strike with rights, lefts, and some vicious kicks to boot. Drew shoves her off but she comes back with a Pump Kick sending him staggering back against the ropes. A second pump kick and he goes through the ropes and to the floor. Jada with a plancha over the top taking out Drew. Jada produces a steel chair and blasts it across Drew’s back. She waits for him to rise to his feet before blasting him in the skull with it. With Drew down and seemingly out, Hashford goes underneath the ring and produces the first table, sliding it into the ring. She produces a second table and slides it into the ring. She looks underneath for a third but produces not the table she was looking for but a...candy cane? She looks at the object confused but turns right around into a Sweet Tooth from Drew. He pulls her up and whips her into the steel steps. He picks up the fallen Candy Cane and swings, striking her midsection first, then her back, and then a third time in the head. He waits for her to rise up to her feet. He take aim for a fourth shot but Jada kicks him below the belt line, dropping him to his knees. She connects with a face wash kick, knocking him down. Jada mounts Drew and rains down a flurry of elbow shots, one after another. Ordinarily she would have to stop eventually but with this match only ending after someone goes through a table Jada takes advantage and is more ruthless by adding more and more elbow shots. Eventually she relents and then rolls Drew back into the ring. Jada takes hold of the ring bell. She brings it into the ring and takes aim at Drew as he rises to his feet. She charges but he ducks, she goes for another swing and another miss but this time Drew kicks her in the gut and connects with The BJ! Drew measures Hashford as she pulls herself up and then he connects with The Gobstopper! Drew sets up a table propped up on its end in the corner. He places Jada up against the corner. Dream charges in and looks to put Jada away with a Whirling Candy through the table but Jada sees it coming and moves out of the way...Drew goes through the table! Jada looks to the official asking if this is over but he says no, Jada has to put Drew through a table, Drew can’t put himself through a table. Jada is frustrated but goes back on the offensive. She picks up the ring bell and measures Drew. He rises to his feet and she strikes him in the head. With Drew down, she goes to work setting up the second table. She goes back to Drew but as she starts to pull him up he takes hold of the Candy Cane again. He swings it and blasts her in the face. Drew with a lifting side slam to Jada, putting her through the table, ending the match and gaining the victory! WINNER: Drew Dream BY: Table Breaking (lifting side slam), 12:12 |
We open backstage near a Hic Sunt Leones poster. And what a magnificent poster it is! Unfortunately it, and partially the wall, has been vandalized. “Hall Hail The Lizard King” has been spray painted with green spray paint over the wall and the poster. If it wasn’t obvious before, it becomes obvious now when “The Woman Scorned” Kimberly Williams emerges into the scene from stage right. She is dressed in her wrestling gear and has the MWE Chicago Way Championship wrapped around her waist and her custom made Lizard Championship draped over her right shoulder. Following in behind her is her trusty Dalek friend.
Kimberly Williams:
I am very disappointed…
Dalek:
EXTERMINATE!
Kimberly Williams:
Dalek is so disappointed he wants to exterminate someone! Although, come to think of it, EXTERMINATE is the only thing he really wants to do, so scratch that...but point is I am very disappointed…
She points up at the poster.
Kimberly Williams:
...first of all, why the hell isn’t our lord and savior The Almighty Lizard King not on the poster?! I defend the Lizard Championship twenty four hours a day, seven days a week, three hundred and sixty five days a year for The Lizard King but The Lizard King isn’t on the poster? For shame! And the other reason I’m disappointed has to do with this right here…
She pats the Chicago Way Title belt wrapped around her waist.
Kimberly Williams:
...Dark Web against Atti Valentine was fun! Barbed Wire Massacre was FUNNNN! But this is just disappointing! I mean, for me to be impressed you gotta step up your game, and for the fans to be impressed you gotta step up your game. And we go from Barbed Wire Massacre to a little mere 20 Minute Hardcore Battle Royal tonight at Hic Sunt Leones? And the opponents are...West Long, Clyde Sutter, Atii Valentine, and Khalil Washington III? I wanna know what happened to the first and second Khalil? And will there be a fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth like in Star Wars? Sutter has a temper problem but Atti? Oh he is a fun guy, I can’t wait to tangle with him again!
The Woman Scorned holds up four fingers.
Kimberly Williams:
But seriously? FOUR opponents? That’s the best you can do? Like I said, step your game up, but don’t worry, I can help you with that! I’m throwing down an open challenge to anyone in attendance tonight or anyone within earshot who can hear me right now and has time to make it to the ring for the hardcore battle royal. If you want a shot at the Chicago Way Title then bring your ass to the ring and come get a piece! I openly invite all the Bad Boyz, every member of The Academy…
Dalek:
EXTERMINATE!
Kimberly Williams:
...yes, my Dalek is competing too...Henri Black, if you and your cardboard cutout want another shot then come and get it! The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders...come and fight me! The Dallas Cowboys themselves...come and fight me! Anyone who wants to make a name for themselves COME AND FIGHT ME!
Williams grins nastily.
Kimberly Williams:
Let’s make this interesting! Come hell or high water I will make tonight very interesting and very entertaining for all my bloodthirsty Kimmymaniacs out there, brothers...and sisters! I will go through West, Sutter, Atti, Khalil, and anyone else who wants a piece and is gutsy enough to bring the fight!
Dalek:
“THE HUMAN FLESH CREATURES WILL BE EXTERMINATED!”
Kimberly Williams:
That’s right, sweetie! They’re all gonna be exterminated!
The champion skips away happily with her Dalek in tow.
Lockdown Championship Match
Dusty's Rule: Five Count
Dusty Douglas © VS Morag BeanDusty's Rule: Five Count
Morag starts off with quick striking against her larger opponent to keep him off balance. This is successful for about a minute until Dusty successfully catches her with a hip toss, a running knee strike, and a belly to belly throw. Dusty walks her down but she rakes his eyes. There’s a warning from the referee but she ignores him, going right back after Dusty with a roundhouse kick, a running enizguri, and then finally a low dropkick to the face that drops him to the mat. Bean with a neck snapper to Dusty. She covers but only gets a one before Dusty powers out. Dusty is up quickly and Morag strikes with a roundhouse kick and then a standing dropkick that sends him tumbling to the apron. Morag with a springboard dropkick dropping Dusty to the floor. Morag with a suicde dive onto Dusty taking him down. Morag pulls him up and goes for a whip but he reverses, sending her into the steel steps. Bean slowly pulls herself up and Dusty charges in, crashing himself into Bean and crashing the barricade separating the ring from the fans! Both are hurt but Dusty is up first. He barely beats the count and then rolls back out to stop the referee’s count. He retrieves Morag but she’s been recovering. She bites him in the nose. She rakes him in the eyes and then shoves him face first into the steel turnbuckle. She rolls him into the ring. Bean goes up top and looks for a frog splash but Dusty gets the knees up at the last possible second. Dusty with a Muay Thai Knee Clinch. After nearly a minute in the painful hold Morag reaches the ropes. Dusty with a reverse atomic drop a Samoan drop and then a running senton. Dusty covers but Morag kicks out just after the three. Dusty with a Kimura Lock. After a minute and Morag still refusing to quit Dusty relinquishes the hold. Dusty goes for a Big Bank Attack but Bean with knees to the sides of Dusty’s head forces the break. She snaps off a quick Iron Fang out of nowhere but the momentum, or Dusty’s instincts one, sends him rolling to the outside so she cannot pin him. Morag slowly recovers as does Dusty. Dusty pulls himself up in time to get caught by a plancha from Morag, taking him down. She rolls him back into the ring. She goes up top and connects with A75! The cover and a four count only! Morag measures him for another Iron Fang attempt. Dusty slowly pulls himself up. She goes for Iron Fang but Dusty counters into a German release suplex! Dusty goes for Giga Impact but Bean fights out of it and then dropkicks his knee, doubling him over, and then connects with a shining wizard, finishing off Shetland Boneless! She covers and gets four and a half but NOT FIVE! Morag measures Dusty for another Iron fang...she attempts it but Dusty counters shoving her off into the ropes, he catches her with Giga Impact! The cover...and the five count! WINNER: Dusty Douglas (STILL LOCKDOWN CHAMPION) BY: Pinfall (Giga Impact), 10:24 |
Earlier in the day, James Edwards was sprawled out in the back of his rental SUV already dressed in his ring tights with an old black t-shirt covering his top half. A black Pittsburgh Pirates cap covered his face. He tipped the cap and spied his "visitors".
James Edwards:
Who tipped y'all off that I was out here? Shit, it was probably Tiffany.
Silence neither confirmed or denied his accusation.
James Edwards:
Hell, I guess it doesn't matter, and to answer the question I know y'all have to ask: I ain't ever getting dressed in the same locker as the guys from Millennium. Not until they show me some respect, which on is something I need to earn back on Riot.
The memory of his loss to Tiffany Page still clearly bothered him.
James Edwards:
You can't talk like your hot shit and then not back it up. Then again you shouldn't talk your hot shit ever, but I did and I lost.
He stretched lazily.
James Edwards:
I don't want much in life and one of the few things I do is for people to respect what I do in the ring and the only way to do that is fight like hell. That's what I plan to do tonight. No bullshit overconfidence, just old fashioned effort and fightin' spirit.
He grinned, obviously at ease with the world.
James Edwards:
And when I win I have one request: another chance to kick the hell out of Tiffany Page.
The screen kicks into life, showing of all places, a kitchen. And standing to one side is none other than Tank Steiner, Austrian Hulk is busy, preparing a cup of tea, with a mug set on the worktop with a tea bag inside of it and a spoon sitting nearby, with the kettle boiling away.
Tank Steiner:
One thing about America that bothers me, is no one really knows how to make a good cup of tea. You try, and there are those who parody what they do in the UK, but apart from Japan, no one really gets it here.
The kettle flickers off, hitting a rolling boil, with Herr Steiner pouring water into the mug up to the brim, stirring the brew seven times anti clockwise before fishing the teabag out with the spoon and launching it to the trashcan without even looking.
Tank Steiner:
However, none of you have come to get a lesson here on how to make a cuppa, and I’m apologising in advance as this episode comes with no explosions of any sort.
He turned to the fridge, retrieving the milk and adding a drop, just enough to turn the colour slightly before returning it to the fridge and closing the door.
Tank Steiner:
I’ll admit that at times, I’m a man of simple tastes. Taking the dog for a walk, spending time with Lena, drinking tea, and playing videogames. All things we consider simple. But in the ring, I am anything but. People expect simplicity out of a 6’7” and 350 pounder, but with the Moonsault and technical ability, it becomes dangerous to assume that all I am is chops and slams. Pierce Manning learnt that the hard way when I made him tap out, and James Edwards will learn that as well when I take on a great wrestler and a fantastic cheater.
Stirring his tea, Tank flashed a smile.
Tank Steiner:
High time I put such skills to better use in other areas though. It may take me a while, but I am declaring my intentions to end this year with the Riot Championship over my shoulder. For the moment, I am content to watch Henri defend against anyone who wants the shot, but I will climb that mountain, and when I get to the top, I will be making all challengers work for it. So, enjoy the fights, because when I get the shot, it will be a High Explosive Barrage.
Raising his tea, Tank took a swig as the screen flickered out.
Tag Team Match
Mitchell Price & Jimmy Scrivens VS Omari Johnson & Dez Ali
Another tag match for Price and Scrivens, whose partnership had been quite successful so far. Some found it odd that management picked the Steeles or tTeam Trillie over them for a title opportunity, but they didn’t seem too bothered by that, well aware that with their ability, that opportunity was bound to come sooner or later. Their opponents were two young moments who, more or less, were involved with the Bad Boyz: Omari Johnson, often seen with that crew, and Dez Ali who just graduated from the Academy. And Dez was the one starting the match against Price. At first his speed and agility helped him staying away from Mitchell’s grasp and land a few interesting striking combination, showing off the talent he displayed back in the Academy, especially in the first part of the year. But the inexperience and that constant need to show off cost him greatly as Mitchell caught his springboard moonsault press attempt and turned it into a running powerslam. After Dez kicked out, Mitchell made the tag to Jimmy and lifted his opponent for a gut buster, holding him across his knee as Scrivens jumped off the post with a double foot stomp. Omari rushed in to save his young partner and keep the match going. The two amateur wrestlers were making this look easy, disposing of the young opponent and tossing him around like a rag doll. Dez was once one of the most interesting prospects in the Academy, but since winning the I Quit match against Olly in December, his performances have never been up to his standards. The transition to the main roster, leaving the Academy behind and rejoining with his family didn’t help as some thought it would. In more than one occasion he came this close to losing the match for his team, only staying in because of Omari’s quickness to rescue him. But most importantly, he never looked like he could create any trouble to Jimmy or Mitchell. Even the right hand that allowed him to create a small separation was more of a lucky shot, a sloppy attempt that caught Scrivens on the neck rather than the jaw. Jimmy was taken back, stumbling toward his corner with both hands on the throat, coughing and trying to regain breath. Ali took the chance to slowly make it to his corner, Mitchell tagged himself in and rushed in to avoid it, managing to grab the opponent by one leg before he could reach Omari. Dez quickly turned around with an enziguri, knocking down the former All-American and making the much needed tag. The Human Superhuman did what he could to turn the tides of a match that, up to that moment, had looked more like a sparring session for Price and Scrivens. Sticking by the same game plan Dez was only able to implement for a minute or so at the very beginning of the match, Omari kept moving around, staying out of Mitchell’s reach and wearing him down with quick kicks to the ribs and legs. Mindful not to make the same mistake his partner did, he didn’t rush to attempt the “big move”, biding his time instead. And you could tell that not being able to grab Omari or land any move was frustrating Price, making him susceptible to making mistakes as well. Johnson moved close to the corner, luring him into sinking the blow. As he did so, Omari hit him with a low dropkick to the knee, causing Mitchell to hit the middle turnbuckles head first. Johnson wasted no time and sprinted to the ropes on the opposite side of the ring, delivering a nasty big boot to the back of the head. Price was down, but before Omari could do anything else, Dez tagged himself in. Johnson asked him what the hell was he doing, Ali demanded that he roll the opponent on his back as he ascended to the top rope. Shaking his head, visibly disappointed, the Human Superhuman did as asked. Ali jumped off the apron with a spectacular 450 splash that found nobody home, as Price rolled out of the way and avoided impact. He made the tag to Scrivens who leaped over the top rope and charged to the opposite corner, taking Omari down with a dropkick. He then picked up the former Academy student, delivering the Lion’s Roar (fireman’s carry emerald flowsion) for the definitive one, two, three. WINNER: Jimmy Scrivens & Mitchell Price BY: Pinfall (Lion’s Roar), 9:41 |
We then head backstage into the locker room and it takes the aura of the man occupying this otherwise empty spot. The man in question is the MWE World Champion Seth Iser, and while imposing as ever as you see the veins in his arms and some of the muscles developing there...his hair and beard show the signs of being grey. He’s seen far too many wars as he’s leaning back on that chair glancing down at the golden championship for what may be the last time. He takes a breath for a moment before nodding his head.
Seth Iser:
It’s funny how long it actually takes to truly get truly comfortable in your own skin. For a lot of people they put up this front that things aren’t bothering them but that one thing someone said...or one stunt in the ring just sours your entire disposition and you’re lashing out trying to prove to yourself or the entire world what you say is true and all that hubris…the usual hubris that often gets a wrestler in trouble…and you find yourself bogged down in some sort of situation where the risk is better then the reward.
The veteran leans back on his chair as he puts down the World Championship behind him gently. He’s obviously changed into his wrestling gear but this variation of his attire is red and white with all of the countries he’s ever wrestled in going down the right side and his big bulky knee brace designed in the flag of Japan. For a brief moment the champion flashes a knowing smile.
Seth Iser:
And lord knows everyone’s been there.
The knowing smile vanishes fast as the champion leans back on his chair.
Seth Iser:
But the last...year now I’m noticing a pattern that’s been occurring. Not just here but everywhere I’ve been. And I’ve been connecting the dots...and what it means not just as me being a World Champion but even bigger...a legacy as a whole. It started when I pulled a certain stunt in my path to be FGA World Champion against the former Neal Durden. It set off...a series of events with him that have affected the future of Pendragon to an extent. Neal is no more obviously as we see that Gareth Prichard Jr has taken his place...a man who is starting to utilize his talent in a whole different manner.
He shakes his head as his face is darkening slightly as he’s thinking about what has happened in the past.
Seth Iser:
You go a little deeper here...the champion was Kelsey Spencer, some say my motivation and training had something to do with that...or my influence if you want to use a darker word but she got caught up in the whole Sandstorm Inc situation. I bide my time after...putting the last spike on the coffin of Neal Durden inside that damn Hell in a Cell...and I want my form of revenge. And do it in one fell swoop. The moment Duke Andrews had his eyes go shut and he was out...with me in that ref uniform and I got it. One simple DDT and that was the death nail to a lot of problems...but my influence...created something else entirely. Not just my association with The Triumvirate taking more of a known look but...the ripple effects being sent out everywhere. You see the obvious one with what I’m wearing here...but it’s a lot deeper.
There is a calmness as he’s reflecting further, his eyes showing determination though for what’s going to happen.
Seth Iser:
Duke Andrews is now starting to take the sport even more seriously...practicing a little more of what he actually preached the moment he turned on Christian Michaels and wanted to be his own man with his own mark. You saw him and BROOKFORD, a guy who I think the world of and he’ll be a World Champion soon, beat the hell out of each other last night. But then you think of the one man who ‘survived’ the ordeal in Dusty Douglas.
The veteran again has this curl of a smile creeping on his face.
Seth Iser:
Boy is getting some experience now using his damn head a little. I told him he wasn’t quite ready to fight someone like me yet...maybe that pissed him off but here he is motivated and your Lockdown Champion. Partially because of what I did. All of this...because my mind orchestrated a plan...for this and everyone’s chasing me to eventually get...here. Which brings us to tonight...the spectre of Chuck Matthews' evil genius mind. The damned Cage Scramble…
He rubs his temple slightly as he thinks about all of this.
Seth Iser:
There’s going to be a chain reaction based off of what happens tonight. That’s just the way it is in this sport...especially when someone like me is involved. I seem to have that effect where everyone wants to step their game up once they’re wrestling against me. But you have to be willing...everyone of us really, to create THAT kind of butterfly effect if it means winning or retaining this title because we never know what tomorrow brings or what new enemy comes to the forefront. Melissa and Glory seem to have made enemies with each other already. And Keelan? I know you’ve been replaying the cage match we had months ago over and over in your head too. But are you willing to create that kind of web of people all wanting to chase you? And can each of you handle what that means? Because that’s what it’ll take to be the champion and beat someone like me.
He then sneers coldly as he stands up, the veins on his arms being more prominent as he’s getting more agitated. He then has hold of the World Title and puts it over his left shoulder.
Seth Iser:
But I am something a lot of people dream of becoming...the person everyone chases. Nobody knows more about how to manipulate a steel cage then I do. It’s the ultimate old school playground...even if you have the new school way of trying to get in. It’s another way to show that I’m the Greatest Mind...in more than one way. Hell, it’s another way to show...that The Triumvirate and the name Seth Iser...are Professional Wrestling. And if you don’t believe me about the former?
He then smirks as Pierce Manning and Megan Monroe are now coming in to his left and the World Champion takes a step to his right. Pierce with his arm around Megan as normal.
Seth Iser:
...How about I let two people who will become Professional Wrestling like I have state it in their own way? The other two people who make...The Triumvirate name mean what it does. Pierce Manning and Megan Monroe.
Pierce Manning:
It dawned on me. This is the first pay per view in twelve months I haven’t challenged for a championship or walked into a pay per view as a defending champion. Think about that. I have been able to maintain a standard of excellence unmatched by most of you on the roster. Your Murder Trains, your alleged standards of perfection, your self professed best in the world’s can’t measure up to what I’ve accomplished. I’m grateful for my success, don’t get me wrong. I can’t rest on my laurels. Being content would be a disservice to all the progress I’ve made. I am not going to stop now. Upon further reflection I know what I must do. There is a piece of unfinished business I need to bury under the dirt once and for all. Henri... listen up.
Pierce points to the camera as if he is pointing to the man who took the Riot Championship from him.
Pierce Manning:
Lets be honest, closure and professional wrestling don’t belong in the same sentence. What we do can’t be wrapped up in a neat little book. Wins. Loses. The bad feelings will always be there. I wanted to move on. Sadly I can’t let go; the fans hated me so much they voted for a Last Man Standing Match. Of course you were going to win. I never prided myself on hardcore wrestling. I was set up to fail, those are the facts. You still have never beaten me in a standard wrestling match, Henri. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt I am the better wrestler. Mark my words, you and me, we will settle this. Closure may be the biggest myth in wrestling, beating you will be as close as I get to burning this book that has become our saga.
Realizing he is getting too emotionally caught up, Pierce takes a deep breath to calm himself. Now calm, he pushes forward with what he needs to say.
Pierce Manning:
Speaking of closure, Tank I can’t deny you forcing me to tap out. Tough pill the swallow; I am man enough to admit when I was bested. Bravo. Take a bow. I would prefer that the other guy wasn’t the third wheel in tonight's dance. As long as I have one more chance to put you down, I’ll accept this triple threat match for what it is; my chance to close the book on our saga. Not completely. We will likely see each other again sometime down the road, I’m fine with that. But I have bigger demon to slay. Congrats, you’re one of them. Not my main demon... a demon nonetheless. We’re always going to have them. All that matters is how you slay your monsters, first you. Then Henri. That simple.
Pierce kisses Megan on the forehead. Rather than say anything Megan puts her hand over the camera lens in a gesture that they’re finished talking.
Triple Threat Match
Tank Steiner VS James Edwards VS Pierce ManningThe match begins with Tank imposing his will upon both Pierce and Edwards. A hard lariat to Pierce, a huge lariat to Edwards. A high back body drop to Edwards, a huge shoulder block to Pierce. Steiner whips them both into the corner and rushes in with a splash, avalanching them both. Steiner with Das Boot puts Edwards down and then he looks for the same to Pierce but he ducks it and then lands a low blow, perfectly legal in a triple threat environment, which doubles over the big man. Pierce with a running lariat to the back of Steiner’s neck. Edwards is up and realizes with Steiner as the biggest threat he needs to reluctantly help Pierce. James with a chop block and Pierce with a running clothesline, the combination high low move takes Tank down. As soon as Tank is down Pierce turns on Edwards with rights and lefts, staggering him against the ropes. He whips him into the ropes and catches him with a beautiful dropkick. Manning turns around to see Steiner slowly starting to get him and Pierce puts him back down with a knee drop. Pierce pulls James up and whips him into the ropes. He lowers his head too early and James makes him pay with a swift kick to the face followed by a flying knee. James gets up but sees Steiner out of the corner of his eyes, he goes right to Steiner and drops him with a ddt. James covers and only gets a one and a half before Steiner powers out. Edwards hooks Steiner for a German suplex but Steiner isn’t going anywhere. Steiner counters and goes for a clothesline but Edwards ducks and Tank inadvertently takes out Pierce. Edwards with an open handed palm strike and then a knife edge chop. Tank smirks and then connects with a knife edge chop of his own. James and Tank trade chops for a few moments but Tank gets the better of the exchange. Tank with a body slam and then a power bomb to Edwards. Before Tank can cover Pierce comes off the top with a double axe handle to Tank, dropping the big man to a knee. Pierce with a running knee strike brings Tank down. Pierce then turns his attention back to Edwards. He pulls Edwards back up connects wit ha rotating belly to back suplex side slam. Pierce with a hangman’s neckbreaker to James. The cover and a near fall. Pierce goes to Tank. He sets him up for a hangman’s neck breaker but Tank fights out of it, whips him into the ropes, and drops Pierce with Das Boot. Tank with an Austrian Suplex, bridged for a cover but Pierce kicks out. Tank with a Giant Swing 1….2….3….4...how long can he keep this up?...20...21...2….James is slowly starting to pull himself up….30...31...Edwards with a superkick to Tank but the big man doesn’t go down! Pierce, however, is released. Another superkick but Tank still doesn’t go down! James leaps into a triangle choke attempt on Steiner! The big man slowly starts to fade away. He’s down to one knee...Tank starts to power his way back up...Tank with a power bomb to force the break! Tank pulls himself up and turns around to see Pierce leaping off for another double axe handle but this time Tank catches him by the throat. He goes for a choke slam but Pierce pokes his eyes. Pierce with a chop block, followed by several straight kicks to the chest and to the head. Pierce with a spinning heel kick and Tank is still staggered but NOT down. Pierce with a superkick and Tank FINALLY goes down! Pierce turns to the crowd and shouts “WHO’S THE MAN?!” But by the time he finishes gloating he turns right into Wildfire from James Edwards! The cover by Edwards and the three count! WINNER: James Edwards BY: Pinfall (Wildfire), 13:28 |
In a bit of footage recorded before the show began, Xavier Laroux was shown standing in the parking lot area. Not by himself, Xavier was accompanied by a handful of members of the arena's cleaning crew. The bunch shared lighthearted discussion, laughing it up, and having an all around good time.
Laroux moved to lean back against a random car as he puffed at his cigarette, listening intently to the story one of them was telling. A raucous laughter poured free from Xavier as they finished that story. Things maybe were to get heated and intense later on but for now, it was all good times.
That was clearly shown in the relaxed stance that Xavier took. Taking the last hit off of that cigarette, Xavier snuffed it out before throwing the extinguished butt in the nearest garbage can. Looking towards that group, Laroux nodded his head firmly before motioning it towards the door back into the arena.
Xavier Laroux: Hell of a time but I gotta head back in there. Things gonna be gettin goin soon and I gotta be ready.
At which point a car slowly pulls into the arena parking lot area. One of the doors opens up and the tanned, toned leg of The Star Of The Night steps out wearing a brand new outfit she'd treated herself to while in the Des Moines area. A black jacket tailor made to fit just her, with pearl white buttons, and a thicker collar. Her blue dress underneath was straightened out and she dangles the key from her finger towards X.
Luna Smith:
Park it somewhere close. I hate waiting for my car, and I'll need it wiped down obvi before I get back in. Radio in someone to get my bag from the trunk and have it put in my room. I counted how many bottles of mountain spring water and sparkling strawberry water I have FYI so don't try and tell me it got lost….
That's when Luna sees Xavier and semi-recognizes him as she removes her new pair of shades.
Luna Smith:
Oh it's you.
She then grabs a firm grasp around her keys and looks around for actual staff.
Luna Smith:
You can see by your outfit I'd be forgiven for confusing you for a Millennium valet service... you could tidy it up with a waist coast and shirt look like some of the fancy valets wear when AQ takes me to the 5 star restaurants or a luxury hotel.
His head tilting to the side, Xavier attempted to hide the offense he felt at the words Luna threw at him. Shaking his head, he brought his hand up to rub across the top of his own head.
Xavier Laroux: Y'know, I really don't think those are the kinda things you wanna be sayin afore we go out there.
Once more, he shook his head as those words rolled off his tongue. His smirk begins to show, his focus falling entirely upon her.
Xavier Laroux: Specially when your boy knows what's gonna happen if he pulls what he did last time. Prolly gonna be all by your lonesome out there.
Luna Smith:
No. I always have who I want out there, ok? And wipe that smirk off your face. Where are the staff...is anyone working today?
She scoffs and reaches in her bag for a small bottle of sparkling strawberry flavoured water.
Xavier Laroux: They're in there, doin their jobs like they're suppose to. Ain't notta damn one of'em here to cater your ass.
Bringing his arms up, Laroux laced his fingers together at the back of his head. Despite Luna's command, that smirk of Xavier's was just as strong.
Xavier Laroux: Why tho? Is there a problem?
Luna Smith:
Yes. It's called deodorant.
She fans her eyes with one hand, making a prominent backstep, and speed dials her phone.
Luna Smith:
This is why I have my own staff.
She then gives Xavier the you're on hold finger and begins to start talking to her own staff, annoyed there's nobody to sort out her bits and pieces, hurrying someone to come park her car and another to get her bags.
Laroux rolled his eyes only to let his arms fall back to his sides, an exasperated sigh following it up.
Xavier Laroux: You got your own staff to pick your ass up when I'm done?
Before she had an answer to give, Xavier mimicked her one finger, hold please, movement.
Xavier Laroux: Course you do. I mean, you pretty much got people to do everythin for you, yeah? Cook for you. Clean for you. Drive you around. Prolly even got someone to wipe your ass for ya, dontcha Luna?
Luna Smith:
Ok, one. You've mentioned my ass twice now, and two, your obsession with it is starting to get into a very disturbing area. And you know what, three, why wouldn't anyone make their lives easier? Oh and four, when I pin you, possibly with a thick towel between you and my boot, they'll obvi celebrate my win. The more I win, the better their bonus. I'm actually a kind boss.
Then Luna snaps over the phone to one of her employees for telling her some bad news about her pre-match mediation and Luna starts rolling off the expensive, and specific things she needs for it.
Xavier Laroux: Why wouldn't you? There's a fine line between makin your life easier and just bein a lazy ass. Wait, is that three times now? Not really sure since I called you an ass.
Thinking about it for a moment, he shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly.
Xavier Laroux: Look, it's like this: Ima take my ass in there and get ready. You go get fuckin fanned with palm leaves and fed grapes or whatever it is the entitled princess type does. But when we get out there? All the staff in the world ain't gonna save you.
Luna Smith:
When we get out there, you're going to regret management or whoever decided to put you in the ring with me again, and I'll have plenty of staff watching my back, so my second earned victory over you, Treasure Map Mark, is well and truly earned. Now why don't you go and seriously invest in some better threads, skin care because you're on the verge of breaking out, and some decent shampoo because whatever grease you had on your hands... it's done nothing to improve whatever hairstyle you had in mind. My staff are here to cater to Millennium's Most Valuable Princess, so I'll be able to do a quick in and out match with you. Don't look at my ass as I walk away either.
As Luna puts her shades on and slings her handbag over her shoulder. Several of Luna's staff members come out with Luna wrangling one to let her vent about X, while one gets her keys chucked against his chest before he catches them. The other two get her two bags from the trunk and rush passed X to get everything setup for Luna.
Night two of Hic Sunt Leones continues on here in Des Moines but backstage appears to be that of a celebration. A locker room door area can be seen opening up as Karen Eldon walks into the locker room area with a champagne bottle in hand, dressed to the nines in a white designer dress and heels. Following not that far behind her is Olly also with a happy look on his face having made a debut that caught everyone off guard last night.
Karen Eldon:
We did it! I knew we would! The way you landed that knee on Valkyrie to put her out? I think I have watched it at least twenty times now on my phone. That was sooooo good.
Really reveling in their trickery, while some had predicted that Erika may not actually wrestle. Many assumed it would be Clyde sneaking back in to do so, not the recent Academy graduate.
Olly:
That explains why it’s the most viewed clip on MWE’s YouTube channel…
Olly jokes with his new tag partner, following her to the table placed in the middle of the locker room.
Olly:
It all played out so well… And the look on their faces? Man, that was priceless..
The two are way too busy celebrating, as Olly pops the cork on the champagne to celebrate their win. They hardly even notice a sulking Clyde Eldon Jr over in the corner. It takes Karen looking at the ground where the champagne popped to see Clyde over there.
Karen Eldon:
Hey there Clyde, want to come have a little drink with us? We are celebrating putting WarBlade behind us once and for all. No more samurai swords, no more viking axes, we are done with those two weirdo’s once and for all! We beat them and now we are tag team contenders!
Karen says the last part and it only seems to cause more tension in the room. While Olly is too busy pouring a glass for the three of them, Clyde doesn’t seem to share the same enthusiasm.
Clyde Eldon Jr:
Yeah I mean, I am happy and all...But doesn’t that make you two the contenders...And Erika is still a bit upset, you know?
Stepping over and putting her hand on his shoulder to try to ease him being upset but probably not really going to say anything to do so.
Karen Eldon:
Sweetie, we won! Unfortunately the Doctor said you weren’t ready to go. So yeah, it’ll be Olly and I. But we are all one big team after all. Erika? She wasn’t ready for that kind of moment yet. She played her role perfectly, she’ll have her time in a few years. But did you not see how Olly and I worked together? He is like part of the family...And that knee you landed? I think I may have to watch it again just for fun!
Turning back to Olly to grab one of the champagne glasses off the table.
Olly:
Erika is such a brave girl, she really was ready to get in that ring with little to none training… You didn’t want your sister to get injured like you, right Clyde?
He’s about to reply, but Olly cuts him off.
Olly:
Your mother surely didn’t want that, and that’s why she contacted me. She knew I could get the job done…
Did he just rub the fact that he did what Clyde couldn’t do in the young Eldon’s face? That smirk on his face is, at the very list, ambiguous. Clyde glares at him seeming to think exactly that Olly was rubbing it in.
Clyde Eldon Jr:
I am going to be healthy in a couple of weeks…
Clyde says this as his mother takes a long sip of her champagne, enjoying every last moment of it.
Karen Eldon:
Yes you will be sweetie. Unfortunately though it is Olly and I that won the match so...it will be us going for the Tag Team championships. That is what they told us right Olly?
Karen looks over to Olly, as she says that he is now touching his glass touched to his lips for a drink.
Olly:
Sure, that's what Elsa said. And it makes sense, if you think about it.. Title opportunities don't grow on trees, they are earned. Giving it away like it meant nothing would be disrespectful of all those people in the back who are fighting for their chances.
Olly takes a sip of champagne after saying those words, putting the glass down and turning to Karen.
Olly:
You know Karen.. I was thinking we should find a team name, since we're going to be champions soon..
Karen Eldon:
You are right actually let’s give it some thought while we are out watching that little girlfriend of yours do her thing?
Karen says this as she finishes off her glass, setting it down. Clyde taking a seat not exactly wanting to be part of this little celebration at all. Glaring at his mother and her new tag team partner, left wondering what is next for him.
Olly:
Speaking of which… I should go see her before her match to wish her luck and whatnot.. It's not that she needs it, but still..
He smiles at Karen as he walks to the door. Before stepping out of the locker room, he points at the bottle on the table.
Olly:
Keep it fresh, I'll be back soon.
And on that, he leaves and the scene fades to black.
Singles Match
Luna VS Xavier LarouxXavier wants to tie up but Luna, who is on her own tonight, backs away to the ropes to avoid contact. The referee orders her to come fight but she shakes her head. Xavier rushes in but Luna pokes him in the eye and then starts striking Xavier with rights, lefts, and several good martial arts kicks for good measure. She delivers several double axe handles in a row to Laroux, finally knocking him to the ground. He rises up but is immediately met by a shining wizard. Luna pulls him up and whips him into the ropes. Xavier reverses. Luna ducks a clothesline attempt and connects with a spinning headscissors into a shotgun dropkick. Luna whips Xavier into the corner. She rushes in but he gets his boot up. Laroux then drills her with a lariat clothesline. Luna is rising to her feet but gets caught with a superkick to the ribs. Xavier then applies a side headlock. He drills lifting knee strikes to the exposed ribcage of Luna. Xavier with a gut wrench suplex, a cover, and a two count only. Xavier applies an abdominal stretch. After about a minute he changes into a pump handle slam. A cover by Laroux and another two count. Xavier whips her into the ropes but he lowers his head too early and Luna makes him pay with a swift kick to the face followed up by a throat strike. He staggers backward and then Luna strikes again with Stardom and then Dark Side of Luna. The cover and a near fall. Luna starts arguing with the referee about the count and this gives Laroux time to recover. By the time Luna is done yelling at the referee she turns right into a kitchen sink from Laroux. He measures Luna for Narcoterrosim but Luna jumps to the outside at the last second. The crowd is booing but she doesn’t seem to care. Laroux slides outside and gives chase. Luna slides back in the ring. Xavier slides in as well, giving chase, but is then met by one knee strike, a second, and then the Upgrade from Luna is complete with an overdrive neckbreaker. The cover and almost a three! Luna doesn’t waste time arguing with the referee this time. She goes right up to the top turnbuckle and goes for a moonsault but Xavier moves out of the way. Luna lands on her feet! Xavier scrambles up and goes for a lariat but Luna ducks underneath and rolls him up with a school boy roll up, hooking the tights for extra leverage...and it would have been a three but the referee saw the hand full of tights at the last second and stopped the count. Once again Luna begins to arguing with the referee. She demands to know why he didn’t count to three, ignoring his simple explanation about the cheating. Meanwhile Xavier is pulling himself up to his feet. Luna sighs with frustration and turns around into Narcoterrorism! Xavier covers and secures the three count pin! WINNER: Xavier Laroux BY: Pinfall (Narcoterrorism), 13:08 |
There is an uneasy feeling in the dressing room of “The Assassin” Clyde Sutter. It can be best described as an uneasy calm, or perhaps the calm before the storm; either way, Mason Van Stanton, who is dressed in his typical black suit, watches with some concern on his face as his client, Clyde Sutter, paces the floor with a sinister sneer across his face.
Mason Van Stanton:
Mr. Sutter, are you ready for tonight?
Sutter snickers nastily.
Clyde Sutter:
What kinda dumbass question is that, Mason? This is nothing but a glorified brawl. No rules, anything goes, and I can do whatever the hell I want to any of the four jackasses who get in my way. That’s the way I like it. So why wouldn’t I be ready for a match that is all ME?!
Mason Van Stanton:
I just meant that you were particularly angry after the loss to Matt Stone and…
Sutter approaches Mason menacingly, which causes Van Stanton to back up cautiously. Sutter just laughs.
Clyde Sutter:
I’ve moved on. Yeah, it pissed me off, but that prick will get his soon enough. Tonight is gonna be just fine because all that pent up anger and frustration I can take out on those other pieces of garbage sharing the ring with me. Tonight is all about pain and you know how much I love inflicting pain upon others.
Sutter places a hand upon Mason’s shoulder.
Clyde Sutter:
And ya did a good job gettin’ me this title shot, Mason. Gottta hand it to ya.
Mason Van Stanton:
Well, thank you Mr. Sutter, I’m just…
Without warning Sutter grabs him around the throat.
Clyde Sutter:
“But don’t think for one god damn second that this means we’re buddies, pals, or any of that shit! Your one job is to make sure Elsa’s pretty little ass keeps lining ‘em up so I can keep doing what I do best and knocking them flat on their damn asses!”
He releases his grip on his agent’s throat.
Mason Van Stanton:
Right...uh...just remember tonight it’s for the title. This is important.
Clyde Sutter:
Yeah, yeah, I know. That title is coming with me, don’t you worry about that shit.
Chicago Way Championship Match
20 Minutes Hardcore Battle Royale
Kimberly Williams © VS West Long VS Clyde Sutter VS Atti Valentine VS Khalil Washington III20 Minutes Hardcore Battle Royale
20 minutes of pure mayhem. Kimmy may have expressed her disappointment because, in her opinion, this match was “too soft” for the Chicago Way standards but the fans knew they were in for a treat. The referee reminded them for the next 20 minutes there was only one rule: pinning or submitting whomever was current champion will result in that person to become the interim champion (no, Kim, those reigns will not be officially recognised, don’t even think to call yourself a x times Chicago Way champion). The last person to be interim champion at the end of the 20 minutes time limit will be the official champion. As the bell rang, everyone went at Kimberly since she was the one that needed to be pinned in first place. The Woman Scorned was prepared though, keeping them at bay with her Betty White, the Freddy Kruger glow that turned out to be a great deterrent. Eventually though the numbers game caught up on her and while Atti tried not to get gutted by the redhead maniac, Long blocked her arm in a half nelson while Clyde removed the glove from her hand. He considered using it, perhaps against Kimberly herself for a moment but as he was about to wear it, the Dalek threatened to EXTERMINATE him. Nothing out of the ordinary here, if it wasn’t for the fact that Kimberly’s bodyguard shot his Ghost Reaper juice in the eyes of the Assassin, blinding him and causing him to drop the weapon. KW3 tried to grab it but Mason van Stanton was quicker and pulled it away from the Bad Boy’s grasp. Humans trying to steal Betty White from Kimberly didn’t sit well with the Dalek who began chasing Mason in a triumph of flashing lights, beeps and EXTERMINATEs. Mason ran for the hills, never to be seen again. Before disappearing backstage, he dropped Betty White on the stage. Inside the ring, Long tried to become interim champion by pinning Kimberly after launching her into the corner three times with as many buckle bombs. Khalil broke up the pin, which made the Warwolf question if he understood the rules. The two began arguing, and words turned into pushes and shoves and eventually punches began flying. It didn’t take West too long to clothesline Washington out of the ring, but it was enough for Atti to ascend to the top rope and land on WIlliams with the Bloody Valentine swanton bomb. Unlike Khalil before him, West didn’t try to interrupt the pinning predicament, using that time to slide out of the ring and grab a steel chair. The referee counted to three and Atti was declared the new interim champion, but his reign only lasted a few seconds, as many as West needed to lift the chair and smack it down on the back of the head of the unaware opponent, cracking his skull open and knocking him down for the easiest of the three counts. Long defended his transitional reign for several minutes from the attacks of Clyde, the one among his opponents who was in better shape. The Assassin tried with a Singapore cane as well, landing a few shots before the Warwolf managed to get it off his hands and break it on his back, leaving him writhing in pain on the mat. Kimberly and Atti were back on their feet and teamed together in an unholy alliance to take down the big man. He was able to resist for a while, but eventually Atticus took him down to one knee with a low dropkick and picked up the chair from the canvas, holding it a couple of inches away from his face. Kimberly sprinted toward the ropes and came back at full speed delivering her Shadowblade knee to the chair, smacking it on the Warwolf’s face and knocking him down. She hurt her knee in the process, and Atti capitalized on the situation to make the pin and become Interim champion for the second time. This obviously didn’t sit well with the Woman Scorned who was furious, getting in Atti’s face and calling him a thief. Valentine laughed it out and told her that if she wanted the title, all she had to do was to put him down. He didn’t have to ask twice, Kim quickly kicked him between the legs and smacked the chair on his head, She made the cover and won her title back. For now. The Chicago Way championship changed hands more times in the following minutes than it did since its inception. Khalil put Kimberly through a table he set up against the corner with his Drive By Spear, Sutter didn’t even leave him time to celebrate and busted his head open with a sledgehammer blow. Long powerbombed Kimberly out of the ring and into the Dalek before turning his attention to the interim champion. With the heavy weapon in his hand Clyde felt confident enough to face the Warwolf. He was so focused on the opponent in front of him that he didn’t see Atti sliding back in the ring behind his shoulders and delivering a nasty superkick to the back of the head. Sutter was down and the sledgehammer ended up at Long’s feet. He picked it up and hit Clyde with it, pinning him for the three count. Valentine pulled out a chain he had hidden in his boots and choked Long out with it, West wisely deciding to tap out quickly before any more damage was done, since there was still time to win the title back. Minutes passed, the title changed hands a few more times until Khalil won it with a quick school boy on the bloodied Assassin. Everyone was down, though Kimberly and Long were starting to stir up. Washington looked at the clock, realizing that he only had to resist four minutes to walk out with the title. He tried to take the easy way out, leaving the ring and running toward the stage. A coward tactic, of course, but a smart one when you think about it. There were no count outs, but pinfall could only happen inside the ring. Kimberly and West realized it as well, and so did Atti and Clyde who now started to get up to their feet, joining the other two in chasing Khalil. The Bad Boy would have disappeared backstage if it wasn’t for the Dalek blocking his way, ready to shoot the spicy liquid in his eyes. He had to think fast, and the best he could come up with was to start climbing the scenography adorning the entrance stage. Kimberly and Atti chased him up there, West and Clyde opted for a different approach, grabbing the structure and starting to shake it. As you can imagine, this ended in a disaster. The three men fell from height, KW3 landing on the stage, Atti took out Clyde while Kimberly’s impact was somehow cushioned by West’s large frame. The Woman Scorned slowly got up, though in a world of pain and realized she had a little over a minute to drag the barely conscious Khalil to the ring and pin him. She was running out of time, there was no way she could drag the heavier opponent to the ring in such a short time. Unless… She spotted a wheeled stretcher not far from her position, one that each and everyone of them would likely need at the end of the match. Not without struggle she rolled Khalil on it and secured him with the belt, setting the gurney up and pushing it down the ramp. Half of the fans laughed when it ended its run against the apron, the other half was rightfully concerned for Washington’s well being as it bounced back and toppled over. Williams didn’t care, quickly picking it up and rolling the opponent inside the ring, making the cover to win the title back with thirty seconds left to go. She spent them sitting on the floor, every single one of her opponents was in no condition to stand up, let alone take the title away from her. WINNER: Kimberly Williams (STILL CHICAGO WAY CHAMPION) BY: Pinfall, 20:00 |
As the camera faded into backstage, the footage zoomed in on various nets of chain link fencing. As it panned out, it was clear this was the exact steel that would be used in tonight’s upcoming steel cage match, with the Junior Heavyweight Championship on the line between the record breaking champion, Leia LeBeau, and the seemingly unstoppable brute force of Echo. It was at this point that a sweet voice began speaking in the background.
Voice:
If you told me that I would be willingingly stepping into a situation like this eighteen months ago, I would have said you were crazy. Back then, all I wanted was to be noticed, and get my name out there in the brightest of lights. All I wanted was the spotlight, to bring in the endorsements and take myself to the next level in the world of entertainment.
A gloved hand, attired in purple silk began delicately caressing the chainlinks of the cage, plucking at the metal as if it was the strings of a guitar. The metal made soft little twangs, playing a song that seemed in tune with the soft voice that spoke.
Voice:
I was often accused of not taking things too seriously. Some said I was treating the wrestling business as my own playground, and that I only cared about the fame and money and didn’t want to progress in the sport. And I’d say that they were right. But things have changed since then, and my record breaking title reign attests to that.
It was at this point that another hand appeared, this one coated in black leather, with metal studs across the knuckles. The hand coiled into a fist, punching the steel as it vibrated, the sound echoing out into the room.
Voice:
My focus changed from not just wanting my name in the bright, bright lights, it became wanting my name in the lights for the right reasons. It took me a long time to see it, but with the help of my man, my family, my friends and my coach, I began to see it. My eyes opened to what really mattered and this Show started to become a wrestling Show, not just here for entertainment and attention. Seems that there were two sides to me, and the side that hadn’t been seen began to surface. A side of me that I never even knew existed.
As the camera pulled back, the stunning Leia LeBeau could now be seen, standing with her side to the camera. Her outfit was gorgeous, though instead of her more traditional Vegas themed Showgirl’s outfit, she wore long tights in royal purple and a matching seamless long sleeved crop top. The outfit was designed with familiar symbols, the Vegas skyline across the arm and down the leg, and pictures of top hats, canes and clapperboards. Leia’s beautiful face was also particularly painted, an intricate little design of the Nevada star on her cheek, and across her chest was one of the State’s slogans, “Battle Born”.
Leia LeBeau:
On one side, there is the Showgirl. The glitz and the glamour, the girl who wants to put on a performance like no other is capable of doing. To show off her speed and agility, to show what these long, long legs can do. Like I’ve said in the past, there are few tens around here, but this thing only goes to eleven. Las Vegas personified.
Leia then turned, showing her opposite side. Her gear was in two different halves, in a Two-Face styled attire. On her right side, her outfit was more leather themed, black with accents of deep green and navy blue, colours reminiscent of Seattle. Down her leg was the Seattle skyline, and a Seahawks motif was painted upon her cheek. Whilst her left side had all the glamour of Sin City, her right was more grungy, more in keeping with the famous music scene that originated from her state of birth. Down her sleeve were various band logos, from Nirvana to Soundgarden to the group that performed her theme music, Queensrÿche. The phrase “Alki” was written across her chest, right next to “Battle Born”.
Leia LeBeau:
But then there was the side of me that awakened once I got my hands on this title. The grit and determination of a real Jet City Woman, who is willing to knuckle down and do what needs to be done. Who is willing to get serious and push herself further than ever before. And what is more serious than Show Business?
The Show turned to face the camera head on, showing both sides of her as she picked up her top hat, itself done in equal halves, and rested it upon her head. She stood proudly, showing off her duality as she stared into the camera, filled with confidence.
Leia LeBeau:
Family Business is.
Leia LeBeau lifted her championship belt, placing it on her Seattle side shoulder, looking deeply into the camera.
Leia LeBeau:
I’ve given my all to win this title, I’ve done even more to keep my hands on it. I’ve beaten all challengers and made all the doubters hang their heads in shame. It’s brought out another side of me, because there are always two sides to everyone.
She looked to her championship belt, and then right back at the camera as those sweet lips curled up into a smile.
Leia LeBeau:
But the moment you decided to take the rules into your own hands, Echo, was the moment you really awoke that other side of me. It wasn’t enough for you to try and use me to send a message by attacking me after our match, you just had to lay your greasy, slimy, sweaty hands on my family. Whether or not me and my little sister Bebe butt heads, she’s still my little sister. She’s still family. And no one, and I mean no one messes with the LeBeau girls and gets away with it. And whether or not our General Manager decides not to punish you for attacking a member of the backroom staff, which has sent such a negative message to each and every camera person, stagehand, interviewer or even commentator about his cares for those under his employ, you will be punished for what you have done.
She turned to one side, and then the other, letting the camera get another good look at her stylish and unique attire, before speaking with pure confidence once again.
Leia LeBeau:
There are two sides to every person, and while you try to portray yourself as being unbeatable, indestructible and undeterred by any person alive with your generic one line responses and give no shit attitude… I will show you tonight that there is another side to you. One that you have been trying to hide all along. The person who is running away from who they are, which is why you turned on Yulia and Co. The person who doesn’t want their weaknesses exposed, which is why you constantly attack and bully to make yourself look powerful. The person who is crying out for attention because you are nothing but a school yard bully. And you have my attention, Echo. You have my sole attention. And I’m going to expose that other side of you. The person who dug in so deep you can’t claw your way out. The person who will be outclassed, outsmarted and outperformed. The person who will regret the day they ever crossed the LeBeau’s.
Leia then raised her title above her hand again, the record breaking Junior Heavyweight looking to both cement her place and extend her unexpected and highly successful reign.
Leia LeBeau:
Because when I’m done, and I’m walking back up that ramp with my Junior Heavyweight Championship around my waist, all you will be feeling is embarrassment and regret. Because when I am through with you, I will still be champion, and you will not even be fit to bring me my latte. You sweaty bish!
We cut backstage where the ever angry Aussie stood by with her back to the camera, tugging on her jacket with crossed out names of everyone she’s ‘taught a lesson to’ since splitting from the Chicago Fight Lab. Circled on the back, front and center, was the name of Leia LeBeau. She spun to face the camera, grinning smugly.
Echo:
There’s no more games, Leia. No cute little skits, no little sister to put through another table. Just you, me and four walls of cold steel. You know, it’s funny. I honestly don’t care about the Junior Heavyweight Championship. I’m not taking it because I need it, I’m taking it because you have it. Because I can. Because it’ll be fun to leave you broken while I walk out with your title held over my head.
She winked, rocking on her heels with her arrogant smile widening like the cheshire cat.
Echo:
You know what I’m reminded of, Le? The first time we locked up, the first time… Well, this.
Echo picked her up quickly and dropped her down once again with a powerbomb on the steel. At this point she was just ragdolling Leia, throwing her against the side barricade and then all the way to the other side. The fans went into raptures as it became clear that the match turned into a statement from Echo, Leia was barely standing and to put the exclamation point with The Reverb when the match was already over, she had to pull her in with a ripcord.
Echo:
And they want to lock you into a cage with me? We sure Vin likes you? Because I gotta tell you, I think he wants to see the season finale of The Show. And he’s not the only one, it’d appear. And that’s okay, I’ve been taking out the trash since I laced up these boots, and I’m perfectly fine with doing it again tonight.
Her grin faded, her head tilted, and she positioned herself closer to the camera. She reached out and placed her hands on either side of the lens, holding it incredibly steady.
Echo:
Your biggest mistake wasn’t doing your best to make fun of me, your biggest mistake was allowing yourself to be placed in my way, because all I’m going to do is go through you. Violently. Painfully. Not as a message to Yulia, she got the hint when I broke her boy toy Damian. This is purely a message to you, because you didn’t get the hint the last time.
Tonight, I don’t just beat you, I don’t just become Junior Heavyweight Champion. I’m becoming a network exec, because finally, I’m going to cancel The Show.
She pushed the camera back, the operator quickly falling to the floor. He panned up toward Echo standing proudly over him with her sick smile returning.
Echo:
That generic enough for you? See you out there, champ. Best of luck to you!
She stepped over the camera, exiting out of frame with a laugh.
Junior Heavyweight Match
Cage Match
Leia LeBeau © VS EchoCage Match
She tried to hide it, but you could tell that Leia LeBeau was slightly nervous as the cage lowered on her, trapping her in the ring with the relentless Australian. Echo instead was confident as ever, and she even took a moment to wave her hand and wink at the camera, or rather at the person behind it, Leia’s younger sister Bebe LeBeau. Seeing the opponent harassing her family lit a fire inside the young champion, who charged the opponent and hit her with the Jet City Jive before the cage touched the ground and the bell even rang! Weeks of pent up frustrations finally finding an outlet as Leia sat on the opponent’s chest, raining down lefts and rights to her face. Echo could still count on the strength advantage and managed to toss LeBeau away from her, picking herself up. But Leia was already on her feet, jumping and extending her legs with a dropkick to the back that sent the Australian face first into the cage. Leia grabbed her short hair and slammed her face into the steel wall at least ten times, showing an aggressive side we hadn’t seen in a while. Echo threw a desperate backfist, catching the champion and obtaining a bit of separation, barely enough to regroup. Leia was, in fact, back on the attack with a boxing combination, landing some quick jabs to the face of the former Invictus champion. LeBeau sent Echo in the corner with an irish whip and charged in, crashing into the Aussie’s elbow. Echo was still dazed but wasted no time and flattened the champion down with a clothesline, finally getting a moment to recover from the initial onslaught. It didn’t take long before the cage became a factor in this match, and the two competitors began to use it to their advantage. Echo ducked under Leia’s roundhouse kick and caught her off guard in a waistlock, lifting her with a german suplex into the steel structure. The Australian doubled down with some hard stomps to the upper body, planting the sole of her boot on the side of Leia’s face and pushing it against the wall. Not satisfied, she sprinted to the opposite side and delivered a baseball slide, pushing her head once again against the cold steel. She dragged the woozy champion up to her feet and delivered a snap suplex, floating into a cover in one fluid motion but Leia raised her shoulder in time. Back on the offence, the champion made the best of the structure surrounding the ring a minute later when she grinded Echo’s face against it until she drew blood. The Australian’s sight was hindered by the blood gushing down from that cut on her forehead, and she never saw that superkick coming. Her head bounced awkwardly on the cage wall, she fell to the mat. Quick cover made by Leia, only for a count of two. Leia seemed in control, the cut on the head was clearly bothering the Australian, especially after LeBeau reopened it by driving the opponent’s head onto the exposed turnbuckle Echo herself had exposed. She had planned to drop the champion onto it head first but the Jet City Woman slipped away and delivered a missile dropkick to the head, sending Echo chest first into the corner and pushing her head down on the exposed metal. The former Invictus champion kicked out in time, slowly making it up to her feet. At that time Leia was already coming at her at full speed with a running big boot, but Echo sidestepped and saved herself. Leia bounced back and Echo floored her with a bicycle kick. The blonde girl grabbed the champ’s ankles and sent her into the wall with a catapult. Leia grabbed onto the meshes of the cage and started to climb, the Australian soon realized it and popped up to her feet, dragging LeBeau down with a devastating powerbomb. That was the turning point of the match, from that moment on Echo started dictating the pace, taking her time to dismantle the champion with stiff strikes and power moves. She went to grab Leia’s leg once again, the Showgirl tried to fight back from a grounded position, trying to keep her away by throwing kicks with the free leg. Eventually Echo grabbed that one as well, leaving Leia with only one possibility. The champion brought the knees to her chest and pushed with all the strength she had left, launching Echo into the corner, her head hitting the exposed turnbuckle. With the challenger down, Leia asked the referee to open the door and slowly crawled toward the exit. THUD! The door suddenly closed on Leia’s head. The reason? Nine van der Hoek had just kicked it shut, knocking out the Showgirl when she was so close to retain. Echo came back to her senses wearing a second wound, this one on the back of her head. Leia was bleeding as well, such was the impact the door had on her head. But most importantly she wasn’t moving yet. As slow as Echo was, she reached the door before Leia could actually recover, and left through it, wining her second title in career. With a little help from the New Problem. WINNER: Echo (NEW JUNIOR HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION) BY: Cage Escape, (14:16) |
We now cut back to the interview area backstage, where Paisley Dawn is waiting with a microphone at hand.
Paisley Dawn:
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome back to MWE, the longest reigning Cloud Gate Champion in history, Tiffany Rollins.
That's when Tiff moves into frame, side by side with the interviewer, already donning her new ring gear. She doesn't exactly want to be there right now, as she seems more focused on warming up for her upcoming return.
Tiff:
Thank you. Now let's make this quick...
Acknowledging Tiff's eagerness to get back to her training, Paisley tries to get her first question out of the way.
Paisley Dawn:
Ok. So Tiffany...or is it just Tiff now? Anyway, it has been a very long time coming, but at last, you are about to make your in-ring return on an MWE event. First of all, I'd like to say congratulations on making your comeback. I'm sure it was a long struggle, but now that you're finally here, what can we expect from you the second time around?
Tiff takes a moment to think of an answer, finally slowing down with her jogging on the spot, before she finally thinks of something to say. She's clearly not used to being in this situation after taking so much time away, so she does look a little awkward as Paisley holds the microphone down to her face, but nonetheless, she answers with complete honesty.
Tiff:
You know...to be perfectly honest, I ain't sure myself. This ain't exactly how I imagined my comeback would be like, if you can even call it that. I know a lot of people will be expecting big things from me, or at least go back to being that monster of a champion that I used to be, but the truth is I don't think I'm there yet, you know? When I quit, I quit for good. I abandoned everything, and I had no intention of ever coming back. And now here I am. I have no idea where I'm going after this weekend, but I'm just sorry that it took so long...
Unsatisfied with this response, Paisley quickly moved on to her next question.
Paisley Dawn:
Well a lot has changed in MWE since you were last here Tiff. A lot of faces have come and gone, and I doubt the competition will be the same as it was before. Judging by the long journey it took you to get to this point, do you think you now have what it takes to get back into the game?
Tiff's demeanor still doesn't change though.
Tiff:
Do I have what it takes? I still ain't sure, but to be perfectly honest, I ain't bothered about that right now. I know there are people who are happy to see me back, I know there are people who already want me gone again, and I know there's not a big difference between those groups. But I ain't worried about that. Not yet at least. Not this weekend. There's only one thing I'm focusing on this weekend, and that is Faith.
This immediately brings Paisley on to her next question.
Paisley Dawn:
Faith Savell, of course. The first Valedictorian of the Academy. For those that may not have followed this story, the history between Faith and Tiff is well documented. From her first week as a part of the Academy, Tiff was targeted by the former Gold Star, and ever since, the two developed a hatred for one another that we all hope will culminate here at Hic Sunt Leones. Do you think that things would have been different if it hadn't been for her?
This seemed to have finally sparked something inside of the former champion, who clearly had a lot on her mind about her first opponent back in the ring.
Tiff:
You know what? I'm just gonna come out and say it now, just so she can shut up about it already. Would I even be here tonight if it wasn't for Faith Savell? Probably not. The things that I had to put up with because of her, maybe they motivated me to get off my ass and reach this point again. And for that, I thank her. But that's all the credit that I'm giving her. She may have helped me reach this point, but that doesn't change the fact that she still degraded me, humiliated me, took every cheap shot in the book just to knock me down. And before she can even think of saying this was her plan all along, I can tell you right now that it wasn't. Do you honestly think she planned this from the start? No. A former champion shows up at the Academy, and she sees an opportunity to take advantage. Using a former champion as a stepping stone to boost her already massive ego. At the expense of a former star, she would become the biggest star in the Academy. She did the same thing that all of these other spoiled, selfish rich bitches would have done...
At this point, Paisley just gave Tiff the microphone and stepped back.
Tiff:
That's exactly what Faith is. I should know, since I've had to deal with so many of them in my career. The difference between them all however? The day that I quit was the day that I let them all win. I had to watch them succeed for almost a year and a half. And when I decided to try and come back, Faith was there to keep me down at the very start, and when she realized that she couldn't, she decided to make things personal...again...just like all the others. But unlike the others, I will never let Faith win. The difference is that I will never let her win, no matter what she thinks or does. She's used me for the last time. I will never let anyone treat me the same way she did again.
Finally Paisley gets to speak as Tiff hands the microphone back to her.
Paisley Dawn:
Phew! Sounds like an unmissable grudge match. I'm sure Faith is looking forward to what is the biggest match in her career to date...
That is until Tiff asks for the microphone again.
Tiff:
Paisley, I promise you this match means just as much to me as it does to her. This may even be the biggest challenge in my entire career.
Paisley Dawn:
Wow, that is a really bold statement, considering all the great opponents you've already faced. Care to elaborate?
Tiff:
I've already told you. I ain't sure if I'm there yet. For all I know, my peak may already be long gone. Certainly felt that way while I stayed at the Academy. So for me, this is the ultimate test. I used to beat spoiled brat bitches like Faith Savell every week. If I beat her, then all the hard work, all the pain and humiliation that I've endured, it will all be worth it. But if I can't...well I don't even wanna think about that. Even though I've been at this stage before, these are the biggest butterflies I've ever had in my stomach. And do you know what? As much as I fucking hate her, I know I can't underestimate Faith. I've seen her up close and personal for months, I know what she's capable of, and everyone else in the roster will have to watch out for her. But that doesn't mean that she ain't feeling those butterflies too. She can be as confident as she wants, but can you imagine what a loss like this would do to her ego? Especially to someone like me? After all the things that she's said and done about me, how do you think she's gonna feel when I finally kick her ass?
There's a nod of approval from Paisley, not necessarily to side with Tiff, but to show how much she's looking forward to this highly anticipated match.
Paisley Dawn:
I'm sure the whole world will be watching, not just for the Valedictorian's first post-graduation match, but for the long awaited return of the former Cloud Gate champion. We look forward to seeing Faith Savell continue to evolve on Millennium, and wherever you go Tiff, I'm sure you'll be back on form in no time. As for this weekend, I wish you the best of luck in your match.
Tiff gives one last smile...
Tiff:
Thank you.
...before jogging out of shot, clearly to return to her warm-ups. This will be a grudge match with huge repercussions, but who will come out on top of this long and personal rivalry? Only one way to find out...
The lights in the arena dim momentarily before the screen lights up and Ravenhead by Orden Ogan begins to play throughout the arena.
Amy Maynard:
It’s time for the RIOT Championship to be defended, originally it was meant to be Henri Black vs Brian Ford but due to stalled negotiations on the contract, we don’t know who the challenger is going to be.
Sir Figgles:
Does it matter? Any champion is better than Henri!
Henri makes his way through the curtain and makes his way down to the ring, looking out over the crowd as he does so.
Henri Black:
Two Weeks ago I issued an open challenge on Twitter, this challenge is open to anybody from any company anywhere in the world. And who answered it but my old friend Brian Ford...
Sir Figgles:
The man who’s ego demanded he have a full month to build to his challenge...
Amy Maynard:
I know I shouldn’t agree with you, but I can’t help it, so just this once.
Henri Black:
Unfortunately Brian absolutely needs to have a minimum of four weeks to prepare for the match, it’s an open challenge Ford not knowing is kind of the point, and so I find myself without a challenger tonight and that’s just unacceptable. I issued an open challenge, and I’m sure there’s more than one taker out there so here’s what’s going to happen.
Henri passes the microphone back and forth, from left hand to right as the crowd waits to hear what he says next.
Henri Black:
I am going to hand this microphone over to the ringside staff and somebody is going to come down that entrance ramp and challenge me for this championship. I don’t know who and I don’t care because I am not leaving this ring until somebody answers the challenge.
Sir Figgles:
Great, we have to put up with Henri until somebody comes out and shuts him up.
Amy Maynard:
Come on Figgles, you can’t deny that Henri is one of the top stars in the company. Nobody becomes a two time champion without talent.
Sir Figgles:
Can and will.
Henri Black:
So. who’s it going to be?
Henri flips the microphone over in his hand and passes it to the ringside staff before pulling his shirt over his head and tossing it into the crowd.
A pause hangs in the air, ripe to burst with anticipation. Then music begins to play. It is quiet at first, a low baseline fills the air, then a whisper ‘Feel the funk blast…’
A murmur of excitement ripples through the crowd. ‘Feel the funk blast!’ screams out as Calm Like a Bomb by Rage Against the Machine kicks into full gear. The reaction is muted but peppered with cheers from the hardcore fans in the Chicago crowd as Duncan Ryder walks out onto the stage. He raises a defiant fist into the air, holds the pose for a few seconds and as he lowers his arm, his music fades.
Duncan Ryder:
Don’t worry about the microphone. I came prepared. It seems a few of you recognise me. For the benefit of those who don’t, I’ll introduce myself. I am The Adversary, Duncan Ryder.
Another small pop from those who know him.
Duncan Ryder:
It’s great to be here in Des Moines but I want to take a moment to talk about MWE’s home city of Chicago, a city I am well acquainted with from my time with a little promotion down the street called UGWC.
A mixture of cheers and boos go up as fans of both promotions clash with the MWE faithful.
Duncan Ryder:
But what brings me to MWE Riot? Well, that man right there Henri Black of course, but much more than that. You see, after I spent the last year giving UGWC my all, putting not just my body but my mind on the line, week after week, being paid peanuts in return, what did they do? They kicked me out of the door without so much as a ‘best of luck in your future endeavours.’ Why? Because I scared them, because I made it clear that I was the enemy of the rich and powerful, the greedy and the corrupt, and what is UGWC’s ruling Coalition if not all those things rolled into one. They were afraid of what would happen if I became the champion of their company and they knew I could do it, so they cut me off.
Duncan Ryder:
Then they spun a new narrative that I had quit, that I couldn’t handle the competition there and ran away. Nevermind that in the past year I am undefeated one-on-one with the past three UGWC World Heavyweight Champions. That Henri, is what brings me here to you.
Duncan now starts to slowly make his way down the ramp.
Duncan Ryder:
I have something to prove, not to the UGWC Coalition, because they know it, not to myself because I know it, but to all these people, I’m going to prove that I can go with the very best this industry, this world, has to offer. When these people go home they’re going to know that you don’t discuss who the best wrestlers in the world are without bringing up the name Duncan Ryder.
Duncan climbs the steps and enters the ring between the top and middle ropes.
Duncan Ryder:
When I saw your challenge Henri I knew this was where I was going to start. Right on UGWC’s doorstep, and how better to prove that I can take on the very best then to challenge the MWE Riot Champion? So Henri, you ready for me?
Henri nods assuredly and says something the mic doesn’t pick up.
Duncan Ryder:
Then ring the bell.
Duncan tosses the microphone aside and waits for the match to begin.
Riot Championship Match
Open Challenge
Henri Black © VS Duncan RyderOpen Challenge
The former UGWC star didn’t seem to have many fans here in Iowa, but he surely had one at the commentary table. Sir Figgles couldn’t answer any of Amy’s questions about the Adversary’s career, but he was, unsurprisingly, picking him over the Riot champion, pointing out how embarrassing it would be to lose to some random. Amy, instead, highlighted the dangers of an open challenge, a stipulation that doesn’t give the champion time to prepare for whoever the challenger may be. The match started with the two men locking up in the center of the ring. Henri quickly got Duncan in a headlock and took him down to the mat. The challenger stood himself up and elbowed the Blackstar in the gut to get free. He then hit him in the head with some big right hands and eventually took him down with a hard lariat. The champ got up but Ryder grabbed him by the arm and tossed him into the corner where he started assaulting him with hard rights and lefts. He then followed up with a big clothesline into the corner. To keep the pressure, Duncan charged at the Riot champion once again, but this time Henri sprung up from the corner and hit him with a big running STO. Black quickly dragged him up and hit him with rights until the Adversary took refuge on the ropes. Staying on the attack, the Australian switched to some knee strikes to the stomach before sending him for a run against the ropes and beheading him with a discus lariat. First pinfall attempt to retain but Duncan raised his shoulder in two. The champion was in great form tonight, taking Ryder for a ride (no pun intended) with his triple german suplex, the last one of the trifecta bridged into a pin for another count of two. He went to pick Duncan up but he kicked him in the head. The Blackstar was taken back and the challenger sprung into action by booting the two time Riot champion in the gut and then hit him with a Russian Leg Sweep. Henri struggled on the mat as Duncan now proceeded to stomp him out, jumping for a knee drop at the end of the sequence and making the cover. The champion popped his shoulder up and was tossed once again into the corner by the English man who charged and delivered a knee to the face. Black was stunned, much to Figgles’ amusement and Duncan took advantage to hit him with several shoulder thrusts in the stomach. Ryder then scooped Henri up and walked to the center of the ring, dropping him on his knee with a rib breaker. Neither this was enough to keep the champion down for the three. The two competitors traded hard punches in the middle of the ring. Henri caught the opponent off guard with a sharp elbow to the jaw and followed with a flurry of kicks, sending him into the ropes and extending his arm for a clothesline, ducked by Ryder who halted his run and caught Henri in a sleeper hold. Henri wasn’t even considering tapping out, freeing his right arm and starting to create his way out of the submission with some elbow to the ribs. The experienced challenger realized that sooner or later he was going to lose his grasp and dropped Henri down with an inverted ddt from that dragon sleeper position, an innovative maneuver that gave him another near fall. DUncan called for his Defiant Driver (fisherman falcon arrow) but the Blackstar had a counter for that, breaking free and planting him on the head with a spike DDT. Henri tried to build some momentum and looked ready for the Black Sacrament, charging at full speed to deliver his terrific running yakuza kick, but Duncan countered it with a spear that cut him in half. Somehow the champion stayed in the match, but this was a very close call for him. Ryder didn’t let frustration take over, keeping his calm and setting the two time RIot champion up on his shoulders in an electric chair position. Henri slipped away and landed behind him, nailing the Black Diamond (V-trigger knee). Rocked by the hard shot, Duncan took some time to recover, and when he finally got up, he was on the receiving end of the Black Sacrament. This time, he wasn’t able to kick out in time. WINNER: Henri Black (STILL RIOT CHAMPION) BY: Pinfall (Black Sacrament), 16:08 |
The crowd is all cheers after the match as Henri leans against the ropes suddenly The Tron statics a bit before Ford's face appears in the screen, he lowers his shades and winks saying "Action"
"DNA" by Kendrick Lamar blares over the speakers as Bryan Ford walks out onto the stage. He twirls his microphone as he receives an uproar of cheers from the fans.
Bryan Ford:
Henri... Henri... Henri... let me just break it down for you... you and I have NEVER had a match against one another... nope stay right there... I'll come to you...
Ford continues making his way down to the ring and slides in under the bottom rope before leaning against the corner turnbuckles
Ford:
See... Bryan Ford doesn't do random open challenges just to show his face and disappear like nothing happened... the fact that I'm here in MWE... well there goes a rating boost right there... and how would I benefit from a one off appearance? Don't answer that.... the answer is I wouldn't.
A match like that... it needs to be in front of a larger crowd... a crowd that will appreciate the Carnage we will put into the squared circle... so you're damn right I need more than a single week. And you should want it too man.
Think about it... you don't want this to be some throw away moment! You want this to get the proper shine and attention it deserves. Trust me... this is good business... so rest up Champ... you'll be seeing me a lot more... and when it's our time... I look forward to shutting the hosie down...
Ford gives a smirk as his music hits again before he rolls out of the ring trading inaudible words with Henri as he walks backwards up the ramp.
Cut backstage where we find the first Valedictorian of The Academy ready for what’s, without a doubt, the biggest match of her young career. In a matter of minutes Faith Savell will step in the ring with the longest reigning champion in MWE history in a highly anticipated match. Even though Tiffany’s year long reign ended over a year and half ago and this will be her first match since then, raising more than some legit doubts about her ring form after such a long time, it’s undeniable that a match of this caliber must be putting a ton of pressure on the young girl’s shoulders. Further proof is the position on the card, semi-main event of night two of the PPV. Not bad for a debut match.
Faith is standing in the hallway, caught up in her thoughts trying to find her focus before stepping in the ring. She doesn’t even realize that her best friend Olly is sneaking up on her, and truth be told, he’s not doing anything to get noticed, silently tiptoeing behind her shoulders. Perhaps in a way to break the tension, he reaches over her shoulders with his hands, covering her eyes.
Olly:
Guess who?
Faith startled at first before she heard his voice, immediately relaxing and placing her hands over his, a smile spreading on her face.
Faith Savell:
Uhhh, Santa?!
She breaks out into a small giggle before turning around to face him, looking up into his face with just a little nervousness in her own eyes.
Faith Savell:
Hey you, feeling good after that awesome debut last night?
Olly:
I’m feeling pretty damn great, actually.
The new number one contender to the tag titles smiles back at Faith.
Olly:
I did say that everyone was going to talk about me when the night was over, and it looks like I was right. The look on their faces when I walked out and joined Karen was priceless. They never saw it coming.,
He chuckles, probably more proud of the fact that he fooled everyone than the win itself.
Olly:
But I didn’t come here to talk about me… How are you? Feeling ready?
His tone changes as he addresses his best friend. Gone is the bravado, his words are now coated with a sweetness he only reserves to her. Even his body language matches this change of attitude, his right hand is now resting on the Valedictorian’s shoulder.
Faith Savell:
I’m… ready. I don’t know what I expected to feel, maybe scared? But I don’t. She’s done nothing but run her mouth and make wild claims, but I’ve kept everything back, so I can hit her with everything tonight.
She leans into him a little and lets out a happy sigh, before rolling her head side to side, ensuring her muscles stay warmed up.
Faith Savell:
After tonight? EVERYONE in Millennium is gonna have their eyes on us. And, after I beat Tiffany, I’m going to spend the next year destroying every last record she ever touched in this company.
A small smile pulls at her lips as she places one hand on his chest, leaning all the more into him.
Faith Savell:
This is Our playground, so everyone best be paying attention.
Olly:
And if they don’t, too bad for them… We’re going to run through them anyway.
Matching her confidence, he nods his head and smiles.
Olly:
Just.. Be careful. You tore her down for months, you embarrassed and exposed her for what she truly is, you broke her spirits… But we’ve seen what she can do when her back is against the wall… Her match with Megan, the one with Luna..
Both those circumstances saw Tiffany coming out on top against opponents who messed with her personal life. Megan was the one who exposed her true identity, Luna the one who caused the irreparable rift between her and Coen. In both cases, Tiffany seemed to be broken and beaten even before stepping in the ring, but eventually found a way to come out victorious.
Olly:
Granted, this is not the same Tiffany and you’re better than them but still…
Faith Savell:
Still, you’re right. She has a nasty habit of beating the odds when she has to, sooooo I guess that means I could use all the luck I can get?
She looks up at him once again with a more expectant look on her face this time. No need to reply, he just leans in and softly kisses her.
Olly:
I guess some extra luck can never hurt..
He now replies with a wink, his arms looped around her in a loose hug.
Olly:
And I’ll make sure her sister doesn’t try anything fancy. I’ll lock that little goblin in a cage if I need to, but I promise you she won’t mess with your match this time. Nobody will.
She takes a moment to lean into that loose hug and then straightens again and nods her head.
Faith Savell:
Thanks, she’s so… ugh there’s not even a word to describe how obnoxious she is. I mean, sure I get it, my sister is my hero too but. MY sister is also Riley Savell, who wouldn’t want her as their hero?
Faith pauses for a moment or two and then smiles again before gently pushing him back towards the hall.
Faith Savell:
Now get outta here so I can focus on this match and after, we can celebrate. Just you and me. Deal?
He nods, taking the cue to leave.
Olly:
I’ll start looking for a good restaurant in this God-forsaken town, then.
Olly walks away, stopping and turning to her one last time to add a final thought.
Olly:
Finish her.
She blows a kiss towards him with a small nod.
Faith Savell:
Bet on it.
Singles Match
Tiff Rollins VS Faith SavellAmy Maynard: “464 days. No, that’s not the duration of Tiff’s record reign as Cloud Gate champion. That’s how much time has passed since her last official match in MWE and tonight.” Sir Figgles: “She took her sweet fucking time to get back from that knee injury!” Amy Maynard: “There’s been a lot more than that, but this is not the place to talk about it. Tonight it’s a celebration, it’s the wrestling version of the parable of the prodigal son.” Sir Figgles: “Rejoice, MWE, for this your sister was lost and now is found again!” Amy Maynard: “You’re an idiot…” But the MWE fans did rejoice when “Very Ape” by Nirvana blasted out of the loudspeakers and the Little Hoss appeared on the stage for the first time in over a year. And as out of line as Figgles’ citations from the Gospel was (and he spoke it after standing from his seat and spreading his arms to the sides, his palms turned upward as if he was truly a priest on a Sunday Mass), it wasn’t entirely wrong. Many thought that Tiff’s brilliant career was over when Devin Hearst crushed her knee that night of February in Tokyo, after she lost the title to her cousin Anastasia Starling. Not much for the injury itself, that healed pretty quickly, but because of the downward spiral the young champion fell in. Every single person in attendance tonight stood up to their feet to applaud Tiff Rollins as she walked to the ring, her eyes glued on the young woman that harassed her for months in the Academy and, in a way, pushed her to come back. Faith Savell was waiting in the ring, looking confident as always, not in the slightest impressed by the huge pop her opponent received. She was expecting it, just like she was expecting the boos during her entrance. She was wearing the “Villain” clothes her sister Riley and her brother Julian wore before her with pride, mocking the opponent with a slow clap of her hands as she entered the ring and removed the jacket to reveal her brand new ring gear her half sister Trinity Thompson handmade for her birthday. Tiff didn’t buy into the obvious taunt and stood there, focused on getting payback for all that Faith had put her and the people she cared about through. The bell sounded with both Savell and Rollins eyeing each other for a split second while circling the ring. Tiff took a couple steps towards the Valedictorian, causing her to flinch at the movement. Tiff then tried to quickly grab the opponent’s leg but Faith swiftly moved back, staying out of reach. Back to square one the two went back to their little dance, moving in circles while hesitantly attempting to make that first move, apparently more focused on the defensive aspect than the offensive, not wanting to let the opponent take initiative. Tiff eventually broke the stale and sprinted towards Faith with an unexpected burst that caught the former Gold Star off guard. Tiff caught her with a quick rising knee, bouncing her knee off Faith’s face to stun her momentarily. She tried to follow up with a lariat but Savell reacted quickly and ducked underneath her arm, running against the ropes and attempting a clothesline of her own. Tiff ducked it and delivered a hard kick to the back of Savell’s leg, dropping her to one knee. There was a roar of anticipation as the former Cloud Gate champion took a quick step back and measured her up for the Death Kick. Faith dropped down on the canvas and rolled right out of the ring, getting out of harm’s way. Amy Maynard: “Faith already has to regroup here!” Sir Figgles: “What was supposed to do, stay there and get kicked on the back of the head?” Amy Maynard: “Of course not, I’m just saying she might have underestimated Tiff, or at least her form. Those months at the Academy really brought her back to the physical and mental shape she was when she was at the apex of her career.” Sir Figgles: “It’s too soon to tell, all that time away from the ring surely took a toll, but you won’t see that in the first minutes. The longer this match goes, the more it favors Faith. And she’s smart enough to realize that, that’s why she’s buying her time.” Faith slid under the bottom rope and quickly back out as Tiff stepped in her direction. Maybe Figgles was right, maybe the fans who were chanting “coward” were right, maybe Savell was simply playing mind games with the longest reigning champion in MWE history by denying her that fight she was craving so much, hoping to throw her off her game. She did the same a few more times, until the former Cloud Gate champion had had enough and followed her outside. The Valedictorian quickly turned around and kicked the 21 years old in the stomach, doubling her over and dropping her head first on the concrete floor with a snap ddt. Wasting no time she rolled her back inside the ring, hooking the leg for a cover. Tiffasaurus kicked out in two. Amy Maynard: “Say what you want about Faith, but you can’t deny her skills.” Sir Figgles: “The most impressive thing about her is that she’s wrestling above her age. She’s only nineteen but wrestles like a veteran already.” The two locked up yet again but Savell managed to overpower Tiff Rollins and threw her straight down on the mat. She went to grab Rollins but she kicked her in the head quickly, sending Faith stumbling back. Once she gained her grasp, Tiff was up and taunted the opponent to come and get some. Faith moved in and walked into a high dropkick from Rollins. The Valedictorian was down and this time Tiff wasn’t letting her get away, beginning to stomp her with a never seen before intensity and savagery that at first surprised the audience, before they quickly showed their appreciation for this side. The referee had to step in to separate the two of them, Tiff went right back on the attack though. grabbing Faith by the wrist and firing her into the corner. She charged with a full head of steam, leaping to hit the young Savell with a back elbow to the face. Faith slid down to a seated position, trying to regain her bearings but Tiffany was not giving her any time to recover, charging back in with a cannonball senton. Amy Maynard: “It’s almost like this is 2019 all over again and Tiff is still running through competition. Faith clearly didn’t expect the Five Foot Murder Machine to be THIS ready, but then again, nobody really did.” Faith once again rolled out of the ring but this time, in a little more agony. Mindful of what happened before, Tiffany remained inside this time, smiling at the fans who were still chanting her name. Eventually Savell had to get back in the ring, slightly frustrated at the fact that she was on the back foot in this first part of the match. Rollins instead looked more confident than she was when the match started, those butterflies she confessed to be feeling clearly gone now. She dared Savell to bring the fight over to her, Faith paced around a little bit and suddenly lunged forward. Once again Tiff anticipated her strategy and stepped back, landing a kick to the thigh of the Valedictorian. She landed a couple more before switching to forearm strikes, forcing Faith into the corner. Savell decided to stick her upper body through the ropes and asked that the referee enforce the rope break. The official stepped between the two contenders, giving Faith some time to recover. As soon as the recently graduated student stepped back in, Rollins sneaked under the referee’s arm and drove her shoulder in Faith’s stomach: Two more shoulder thrusts connected before Savell leaped to avoid the fourth and caught the former champion in a sunset flip, getting really close to the three. Amy Maynard: “Damn, that was close!” Sir Figgles: “This is how dangerous Savell can be. She’s just so quick and versatile, you never know what she can come up with.” Tiffany kicked out and quickly picked herself up. Faith was faster and rocked her with a knee strike to the face. The former champion was down again, Faith started circling around her like a shark smelling blood and waited until she rose up again, delivering a forearm to the lower back. Rollins arched her back, the opponent quickly draped her arm around her head and lifted her for an inverted suplex. Finally starting to build some momentum Faith jumped with a front dropkick, sending the Little Hoss through the ropes. Tiff landed hard on her back outside the ring, using the apron to slowly stand back up. Savell charged at full speed and, with a baseball slide, sent her into the barricade. “Fuck…” was the expletive the camera caught coming from the Five Foot Murder Machine as she pushed her off the barricade and walked toward the ring. Faith was back on the attack, launching herself through the ropes with a suicide dive, wiping out the former champion. Amy Maynard: “How quickly the tides have turned!” Faith was first to her feet, slowly gaining her bearings. She grabbed Tiff by the hair and tossed her into the ring, following in right behind her. Savell tried with another cover, mostly just to make the opponent waste more energy to kick out. When she did, Faith moved in with a headlock, keeping the blonde grounded. Rollins stood up and tried to get free with a few elbows, managing to get some separation. Faith grabbed her by the waistband of her trunks and pulled her into a German suplex. The next couple of minutes were a showcase of the Valedictorian’s technical prowess where Faith showed part of the vast array of suplexes, the last one being a bridging version of the fisherman, calling Tiff to a difficult kick out. As she eventually got up to her feet, Rollins looked gassed out. Sir Figgles: “See? That’s what I meant when I said that the longer this match goes, the better it is for Faith.” Her condition may not be top notch, but Tiff kept on fighting. Savell swung at her three times with wild punches. The first two were ducked by Rollins who then grabbed Savell’s hand on the third attempt and pulled her into the Peacemaker leaping knee strike, tribute to Andreas Lasiewicz. Tiff stood up and now waited, scouting out Faith as she struggled to get up, pushing her up to her feet. Tiffany delivered a first shoot kick to the chest, following with some more, each one harder than the previous. They were her trademark set up for the Death Kick and there it was, the stiff superkick that gave her so many wins in her career. Savell had it scouted and dodged the kick, popping up to her feet ready to catch Tiff with an exploder suplex as she turned around and charged in. Rollins leaned back into the ropes, trying to catch her breath. Faith wasn’t so keen on giving her time to recover and sprinted toward her, looking perhaps to clothesline her over the top rope. But she ran right into the Death Kick, the former Cloud Gate champion’s foot connecting to her chin with a deaf thud, immediately overshadowed by the loudest pop of the night. Out of instinct, Savell tried to roll out of the ring but Tiff quickly reached and pinned her. The referee’s hand stopped half an inch from slamming on the mat a third time because he noticed the Valedictorian’s foot was on the bottom rope. The Little Hoss climbed on the middle rope and jumped on her with the Thrillkill, another tribute this time to her adoptive mother Brytain Rollins. Amy Maynard: “The knees! Faith got her knees up!” Sir Figgles: “Great awareness shown by the rookie! And here comes the one, the two, the thr….” Amy Maynard: “She kicked out! Tiff is still in this match!” She was, indeed, but took another hard shot to the lower back. And Savell doubled down on it with some hard knee drops, at least five of them. Then came a series of elbow drops, and after those a bow and arrow lock, putting more pressure on the former champion’s spine. Tiff refused to give up, no matter how long Faith was keeping her in that submission. Eventually the Valedictorian let her go, standing up and dragging Tiffany with her. She put her head under the arm of the opponent, wrapped an arm around her waist and flipped her backwards, bridging into a pin. Amy quickly pointed out that this was the win Faith usually used to close her match in the Academy while Figgles was already gloating. The referee got in position for the count and a shocked silence fell on the arena as he reached the three and ordered for the bell to ring. Amy Maynard: “It’s over… Faith Savell just pinned Tiff Rollins in her return match… What a shocking turn of events!” Sir Figgles: “There’s one person who’s not shocked in the slightest… Well, two if we count me… And look at her now, arm raised in the sky after the biggest win of her young career.” Faith Savell stared into the camera, flaunting her confident smile and mouthed “I told you so.” After wiping her feet on the canvas, almost on Tiffany’s face, she left the ring and strut up the ramp, stopping for a moment on the stage to take a mocking bow at the fans who still didn’t get over the fact that Tiffany Rollins got pinned in the middle of the ring. WINNER: Faith Savell BY: Pinfall (Bridging Northern Lights Suplex), 23:33 |
In a pre-recorded message, Melissa Reeves sits alone on the roof of the arena. The bustle of the city is lost on her as she is lost in her own thoughts. She holds the camera at an odd angle, clearly demonstrating her mindlessness in the moment.
Melissa Reeves:
I've been at this game for a long time, this industry, and I’ve never been involved in a match quite like tonight's. A cage scramble, they're calling it. Five go in, one comes out...yeah, you know the drill.
There'sno visible emotion on her face as she finally looks at the camera.
Melissa Reeves:
I could spend the next ten minutes running through the competitors, maybe trashing a few - probably upsetting Gloria in the process - but honestly? This isn’t about who’s in the match. Regardless of the how and why of the competitors involved being involved, the face remains that they are. A more pertinent fact, though, is that to put is simply...everyone here has an equal chance in a match like this, everyone here could very well walk out with the MWE Title after this one is done.
She laughs a little.
Melissa Reeves:
It's ridiculous, it's chaotic, but it's how things are. It might be very well be me walking out with the gold, but it might not. Guess we’re going to see. Not a lot you can do to prep for a match like this beyond the usual research and training. I'm sure some involved have a plan, but we all know plans don't survive first contact with the enemy. With this many opponents, it's even more futile. So what do you do?
A quick shrug.
Melissa Reeves:
Obvious, isn't it? Whatever you must. If that means standing on four others to win then so be it, I will. If I have to defeat people I've cared for, I will. If I have to crush those who are envious of me, I will.
Her fist tightens, hand raised a little.
Melissa Reeves:
And let me tell you, I sure wouldn't fancy being Seth coming into this one. No… It's a burden to be champion, not everyone can carry that weight. If he falters tonight then he's done as champion. Nobody here knows more about holding that title than I do, NOBODY. This won't be my sixteenth reign, because I never lost it fifteen times. I held it longest, I held it most successfully and tonight? I recapture it. Whatever it takes.
She places the camera down. Before it she lays a necklace, a gift once given to her by her now ex boyfriend, Keelan. A sign, perhaps, that she views her past as something she's shed herself of, and is instead focusing on the future which awaits her... starting tonight.
We cut backstage to the dressing of none other than “The British Bombshell” herself Glory Braddock. The beautiful blonde is dressed in her two piece royal purple wrestling gear. Her long blonde hair is left to hang straight and unrestrained to past the shoulders. She is seated with her back turned to the camera as she begins to speak…
Glory Braddock:
I made my debut here in MWE at the tail end of 2019, specifically December 7th, 2019 Riot from the Wuhan Gymnasium. My opponent that night was Leia LeBeau and from that moment on I made it my goal to one day become MWE World Champion. Being World Champion is the goal of anyone who laces up a pair of wrestling boots. Being World Champion means you are the best and if you are not in it to be the best then you need to find a new career choice because this just simply isn’t for you. Anyone who doesn’t have the heart, the desire, and passion for this sport is just wasting my time. But if you really want to know how deep my passion for this business goes you have to go all the way back to January of 2008 when I made my professional wrestling debut. It was in Charlotte, North Carolina. I had just finished training under the tutelage of my father, a great amateur wrestler and equally as good professional wrestler on the European circuits, a man popular in England under the name Britain’s Best. But I just called him dad...Glenn Braddock. Dad had connections through my mother’s family with a company known as Global Division of Wrestling headquartered in Raleigh. They were planning a one night eight person single elimination tournament to crown a new GDW International Champion. One of the participants had to back out due to injury and they had a spot to fill. Dad pulled some strings and got me the opportunity. No one expected me to make anything out of the opportunity, I was just brought in as someone’s opponent.
But dad always taught me to go into each match as if it were my last, to treat each match as if it were the single most important match of my career. I heard the noise, I heard the chatter...just do your best, you’ll learn from the experience...and yes, I did learn. I learned that if I busted my ass that I could achieve anything I wanted, because on that night not only did I win, but I went on to beat my other opponents, win the entire tournament and become champion.
The British Bombshell stands up and turns to face the camera. A grin is etched across her face.
Glory Braddock:
How is THAT for a debut? And for the first nine years of my professional career I did everything I could not to uplift my legacy, but to uplift my father’s. I did everything I could not for my own selfish intentions but for the betterment of this sport I love. Every single thing I have ever done has been because of the passion I have for this business. But then for the next couple of years I began to get selfish. I lost track of what was most important. Instead of focusing on my love of this sport and its fans I focused solely on myself and uplifting myself. I began chasing after World Championship number fifteen not so that I could represent this sport proudly as a World Champion but just for the simple fact that I could say I was a fifteen time World Champion and I could continue to crow about being the Best in the World.
Braddock chuckles.
Glory Braddock:
Ironic thing is, when I finally did win a fifteenth World Title, I lost it that same night. Because I won it in a gauntlet match and I didn’t make it to the end as champion. Former champions often talk about how painful it is to be at the very top of the mountain only to lose it all. Imagine the pain I felt to lose it all after being at the top for just a mere fifteen minutes? But that is also when I finally woke the hell up. That’s when my father’s voice started speaking to me again, reminding me of his lessons, reminding me of why I do what I do. It isn’t to achieve ultimate power, it isn’t to make money, it sure as hell isn’t about to adding trinkets to a trophy case. This is about competition and proving that you are the best, that you worthy of being the standard bearer of professional wrestling.
Tonight I finally challenge for the MWE World Championship in a Cage Scramble. Admittedly I have not been with this company as long as some of the others but I do consider MWE my home. I consider this roster and the fans a part of my extended family. And yes, it would be honor and my privilege to represent MWE as its World Champion. Because a company as great as this, and a fanbase as great as MWE’s, it deserves a truly worthy and honorable World Champion as its standard bearer.
The British Bombshell shakes her head.
Glory Braddock:
That sure as hell isn’t you, Seth Iser. I hope you were paying attention when I said that wrestling isn’t about achieving ultimate power because I was talking about you. This whole thing between you, Megan, and Pierce, this Triumvirate, it has all been one great big power grab for you. And you certainly do not represent this company well with your underhanded tactics. You lot are just a bunch of snakes but the thing about snakes is that they cannot be trusted and that’s what makes tonight absolutely brilliant. Your own Triumvirate mate, Megan, is also gunning for that championship you possess. You can’t both be champion, now can you? It is inevitable that you two will have to come to blows. It is inevitable that your Triumvirate will self-destruct and that self-destruction begins tonight.
A smirk forms on Braddock’s face.
Glory Braddock:
But you don’t have to worry about Megan taking the title away from you, as good as she has proven herself to be, she isn’t the one who will beat you for the championship tonight. That person will be me, The British Bombshell. I have prepared myself for nothing less than total war. I am prepared to walk through hell itself tonight in order to win my very first MWE World Championship and to proudly represent this company. And unlike champions of hold, who hid behind some gang whether it be called Sandstorm, APE, or the Triumvirate, I will not hide behind anyone or anything. Yes, I may have the Glorious Golden Era, but I will never hide behind them.
If and when I become champion here tonight, the fans of MWE have my word that I will defend this title as often as the company will allow. I will be a fighting champion who will restore honor, pride, and respectability back to this sport and to the championship. After all, that’s what being World Champion is all about. It is about pride, honor, and respectability.
Keelan, Melissa, I do hope if it’s not me then one of you takes home the strap. That title cannot afford to go to The Triumvirate. But all respect aside, make no mistake about the fact that I will do anything and everything I can tonight to walk away as the new MWE World Champion. I have fought just as hard as any of the rest of us to get here tonight. The situation may not be ideal, my dad certainly loathed anything involving more than one opponent, but be that as it may the hand was dealt, this is how it has to be, and I make no excuses for what happens tonight. I will ascend to the top of the MWE mountain and become champion, once again become the best, or I will bloody well die trying.
Braddock shuts her eyes.
Glory Braddock:
Sic Semper Tyrannis…
Everything is ready for the huge main event. The cage is hanging over the ring, ready to be lowered this time not to lock the competitors inside but to keep them out, at least for the first part of the Cage Scramble for the MWE World Championship. But before all that, there seems to be a special announcement from the Millennium General Manager Elsa McCarthy. The young woman, looking stunning in her silver and white short sequin dress walks down the ramp and steps inside the ring. Aspen quickly hands her a microphone and Elsa addresses the audience and the fans watching at home.
Elsa McCarthy:
Quite the show we had tonight, wouldn't you agree?
The answer coming from the fans is certainly positive, as expected. Smiling at the camera, Elsa then continues.
Elsa McCarthy:
And we still have in store one of the most anticipated main event in recent times, a match that was announced over a month ago and I'm sure you all are eager to watch.
Another loud round of cheers rises from the sold out, with all the limitations and safety measures the situation requires, crowd.
Elsa McCarthy:
But before we get to it, I have an announcement to make, one that I know will pick your interest. For something like this, I would usually have my Riot counterpart standing next to me but he's currently dealing with the fallout of tonight's matches.
Most likely she's referring to the LeBeau/Echo situation, but you won't hear her confirming nor denying it.
Elsa McCarthy:
As you all are aware, MWE traditionally goes "on a break" during summer, at least with his weekly programming. And this year as well, we will be holding three special monthly events in July, August and September. Dates, locations and name of those events will be announced in a near future, but that's not what I came here to talk about.
There's another tradition we have estabilished in these past years, an event that happens once a year and always on the last cycle of weekly shows, culminating in the main event of night two of the following Pay-Per-View.
At this point it becomes clear to the fans what she's talking about, and they make their appreciation heard, putting a wide smile on Elsa's face.
Elsa McCarthy:
The Battle For The Briefcase is coming back on Sunday's Riot In Massachusetts, sixteen men will battle it out for a chance to hold the coveted briefcase that will grant them an instant shot at ANY title, as well as the power to book, and change, any and every match. The rules are always the same, the first match will be contested under regular one fall rules, the second round will be held under no disqualifications rules. In the semi-final, the competitors will be stepping inside the cage, while the final match will be a Three Stages Of Hell. Either finalist will be given the chance to choose the stipulation of one stage, while the final one will be picked by Vincent and myself.
The fans are buzzing, but Elsa invites her to calm down, having one more thing to say.
Elsa McCarthy:
To this date, we still have one briefcase out here, waiting to be cashed in. Gareth Prichard Jr is surely buying his time and that's absolutely fine with us. Nobody is rushing him into using his briefcase, but when the main event of night 2 of Horizons Of Glory comes, that briefcase will be no longer useable.
Before I go and leave you to the main event, I want to wish the best of luck to everyone taking part in the tournament. May the best wrestler win.
And with that said, Elsa walks out of the ring. The cage slowly starts descending, it's time for the final act of Hic Sunt Leones.
MWE World Championship Match
Cage Scramble
Seth Iser © VS Gloria Braddock VS Keelan Jayce VS Megan Monroe VS Melissa ReevesCage Scramble
Peyton Holland: “Can’t say that Hic Sunt Leones didn’t live up the hype... What a great two nights of wrestling we just witnessed.” Ambra Monroe: “We got champions retaining, title changing hands, controversy, upset wins and the announcement that we all were waiting for.. The Battle For The Briefcase will rage on this upcoming cycle!” Amy Maynard: “And we still have one more match to go… Our main event of the night, the World championship on the line in a Cage Scramble match.” Sir Figgles: “Did I get this right? They start fighting outside the ring and the goal is to climb the cage to enter the ring?” Amy Maynard: “Yes, you’d be correct.” Sir Figgles: “And the first two to do so will then have to fight another match inside the cage?” Amy Maynard: “Right again… I’m shocked.” Sir Figgles: “This could be the greatest or the lamest stipulation I’ve seen.. I reserve my judgement for when it’s over.” Aspen Eisley: “The following contest is a Cage Scramble match, and it is for the MWE World championship! Introducing first, from Morgantown, West Virginia, he is the MWE World champion, Seth Iser!” “Unsainted” by Slipknot blasted out of the loudspeakers and the towering figure of the Deity Of Destruction stepped out of the curtain. The grizzled veteran walked slowly down the ramp, paying no mind to the jeers of the Iowa fans, his eyes locked on the steel cage surrounding the ring. Glory Braddock came running down the ramp and hit the unaware Iser with a polish hammer from behind. The referee ordered for the bell to be sounded and the match was officially underway! Glory kicked the champion on the back of the head and started to climb the cage. Sir Figgles: “This is fucking brilliant! That’s why Braddock is the best in the world, she just outsmarted the Dirtiest Player In The Game and she’s now about to enter the ring and secure her spot in the second part of the match, without even breaking a sweat!” Ambra Monroe: “Perhaps you spoke too soon.. Here comes the cavalry!” Hopefully none of them had prepared some elaborate entrance for this main event. If that was the case, nobody will be able to witness them. Keelan Jayce, Megan Monroe and Melissa Reeves all came out at the same time with no music to announce them. They were running down the ramp, looking to spoil Glory’s creative game plan and prevent her from entering the ring so soon. The Reaver was the fastest of the trio, following Braddock up the wall and reaching them as she was about to step over the edge and enter the ring. Grabbing her by the hair, Reeves started slamming her face onto the steel structure, only stopping when Glory lost the grasp and fell down. On her way to the canvas, the British Bombshell grabbed Melissa’s foot and dragged the former World Champion down with her, the pair landing on top of the three opponents who were fighting on the floor. Peyton Holland: “Holy sh…” Sir Figgles: “Welp, they’re all dead, call this one already…” The fans were, obviously, already on their feet, absolutely loving the wreck they just witnessed. The five competitors slowly started to move, the first of them was Keelan who began crawling toward the cage, using it to stand up, Megan was the second and charged at Jayce with the Mega Kick, but the australian avoided it with an aesthetically pleasing and in this case effective side cartwheel. Monroe kicked the cage, immediately clutching her knee injured upon impact. Keelan considered starting the climb but then spotted Seth Iser slowly standing up and opted to take him out first with a hurricanrana driver. As he was walking back toward the cage, Glory grabbed him by the ankle and stopped his march. He just turned around and kicked her in the face, but at that point Mel was back and picked him up for the Reaver Slam. The 2020 Female Wrestler Of The Year started her ascension but Seth quickly stopped her, sliding between her and the cage and holding her on his shoulders in a powerbomb position. She punched him on the head repeatedly until the World champion had to let her go. Somehow Mel managed to turn this into a ddt, dropping Seth on the top of his head. The Greatest Hunter was immediately up to his feet, taking two steps toward Mel before Flair flopping on his chest. Amy Maynard: “It’s not going to be easy to make it to the second stage, more so if they keep up this intensity.” Ambra Monroe: “Makes you wonder in what kind of shape whoever makes it inside will be.” It was an all out brawl on the outside, basically just punches and kicks flying everywhere and from any direction. Amidst the chaos, Keelan Jayce stood out thanks to his tricking style, by far the most entertaining thing of this part of the match. From the hurricanrana performed on Glory after running on the edge of the guardrail to the double ddt he used on Megan and Seth, Jayce was on fire, cleaning the ringside area off her everyone and anyone, clearing his path to a safe climb. Melissa was the only one who could stop him, once again making her way up the wall and pushing Keelan’s face into the cold steel. They stayed up there for quite some time, fighting and jockeying for position. The champion ended their high risk exchange in the, for them, worst possible way. A tremendous kick to the cage shook the entire structure and caused them to fall all the way down to the unforgiven floor. Peyton Holland: “That’s one way to stop someone from climbing…” Megan and Seth started working together with the clear intent to wipe out the competition and settle this “in the family”. Glory was the first victim of their alliance, the two of them taking turns at hitting her before Seth put her through the Riot commentary booth. They then focused on Melissa, using a similar tactic to the one that worked so well against the British Bombshell, Out of nowhere came KJ, stepping on the cage with one foot and using it as a base to propel himself toward Iser with an enziguri kick of sorts. Once again Melissa and Keelan found themselves fighting side by side against the Triumvirate. It was a very evenly matched contest, even now that Seth was grating his face against the cage. Megan landed an interesting striking combination and tried to put Reeves away with the Beautiful Disaster but the Reaver blocked her attempt and countered it with a suplex. While the two impromptu teams battled it out, Glory slowly and unbothered climbed the cage, letting herself fall inside. Amy Maynard: “She’s in! Glory Braddock sneaked inside the cage!” Peyton Holland: “That means there’s only one more spot available.. Who’s getting it?” The champion immediately tried the climb, urged by the concrete possibility to lose the title without being pinned. Reeves and Jayce stopped him almost immediately with forearm strikes to the lower back, dragging him down. Megan joined them in the following brawl,reviving her rivalry with Jayce. As the two traded blows, the momentum of their exchange brought them away from the cage, thus leaving Melissa and Seth in a better position to attempt the climb. The Reaver was attempting it one more time after leveling Seth with a roundhouse kick. But Iser was back to his feet already, using his height and standing on the tip of his toes to reach for Mel’s ankle and yanking her down. The former World champion landed on her feet, although the right knee slightly buckled, Seth relentlessly hit her with a bicycle kick and scooped her up, holding her on his shoulder. He used her as a battering ram, driving her head first into the cage three times before powerslamming her on the ring steps. Ambra Monroe: “Good Lord… Is she alright?” Sir Figgles: “She’s moving, so that’s something? But no, I don’t think she’s alright.” Nobody was in Seth’s way and he began to climb the cage. Glory, who was sitting inside waiting to find out who will be her final opponent, stood up, ready to welcome him as soon as he touched the ground. Keelan suplexed Megan on the Millennium commentators’ table, finding out that it was more robust than the Riot one, resisting the impact. Little changed for Monroe, who arched her back in pain, laying flat on the table. Jayce quickly started ascending the cage on a different side than the one Seth was in. Faster and more agile than the World champion, he quickly caught up with the veteran, the two of them reaching the top almost at the same time. Peyton Holland: “Both of them almost made it to the top… But there’s room for only one of them inside that ring.” Seth threw caution to the window and literally launched himself over the edge without a single care in the world. The impact with the canvas below was hard and knocked the wind off his lungs. He took a huge risk, chances to injure himself in a fall like that were pretty high. But that will be a problem he’ll have to face soon. He was in, he still had a chance to defend his World championship, and that was all that matters. The disappointment on Keelan’s face was visible, he literally had one foot inside the cage and would be challenging for the title if it wasn’t for Seth’s reckless dive. And speaking of reckless dives, since he was here already he might as well do one, jumping on Megan with a 450 from the top of the cage and through the table. Amy Maynard: “Well, looks like we have to stay upright to call the rest of this match.” Sir Figgles: “What the hell is wrong with that guy? That was totally uncalled for!” Peyton Holland: “Ask him if you want, I rather focus on what’s happening inside the cage…” The referee opened the door and stepped in. As soon as he did, Glory immediately went to pin Seth who was still writhing on the mat after the nasty fall, but despite the pain the veteran kicked out. Looking to end this quickly, she applied pressure on the back with a boston crab, but Iser refused to give up, finding a way to escape the submission. Braddock was in a much better shape than Seth, having had plenty of time to recover and, most importantly, not having to deal with the aftermath of that sacrifice fall. She kept the pressure on the World champ, aiming at his lower back with shoot kicks, not even giving him the chance to stand up to his feet. She tried several covers, even consecutive ones, all with the goal to wear him down more quickly. Ambra Monroe: “The Best In The World has a huge opportunity tonight, the world title number 16 may be closer than she imagined.” Peyton Holland: “She does, but if the last months taught us anything is that you can never count out Seth Iser.” Peyton’s words were somehow prophetic. Iser caught the challenger with a vicious right hand that left her stunned and allowed him to pile up a flurry of hard chops that knocked the wind off the former Riot champion’s chest. He scooped her up and pretty much fell forward, landing on top of her with a not-so-flawless version of his Pillar Of Truth, but it almost gave him the win regardless. Iser was visibly tired, a match like the one he was fighting will take its toll on a young gun, let alone a 40 years old, no matter if he was one of the toughest S.O.B. in the business. They both took some time to get up, Seth swinging and missing with the big right hook and leaving himself exposed to Glory’s kicks to the legs, alternating the left and right one, three to each side. At the end of it, Braddock jumped and caught him with the Glorify Thy Name (variation of a codebreaker), but that didn’t keep Seth down. As she went to pick him up, he shoved her back into the cage, creating a small separation that bought him a few precious seconds. When she lunged in, he was ready to receive her with three quick jabs and a discus clothesline that turned the challenger inside out. Seth moved behind her as she slowly rose to her feet, connecting a half-nelson suplex. Amy Maynard: “We saw Seth use that move quite often as a set up for the Deprivation DDT or the Dream Eater… This is a crucial moment of the match!” He opted for his trusted ddt, picking Glory up ready to drop her on her head. But she hit him with a low knee strike in the crotch, an unorthodox yet effective counter that worked perfectly in this no dq situation. Braddock wasted no time and locked him in the Shekhinah Glory, her patented guillotine choke. Iser roared and deadlifted the challenger almost right away, before she could do much damage and drove her into the cage twice, spinning around and powerbombing her on the canvas, getting out of the submission. Where did he find this final burst of energy will always remain a mystery, but it was clear that it was the last one he had. His can was empty, it was a make it or break it moment for the champion and he couldn’t waste this chance. He put all he had left in this last attack, dragging Glory up to her feet and bombarding her with a volley of strikes, the final one being a kick in the gut to double her over so that he could easily plant her with the Deprivation DDT. He dragged himself on top of Braddock, keeping her down for the count of three this time. WINNER: Seth Iser (STILL MWE WORLD CHAMPION) BY: Pinfall (Deprivation DDT), 33:05 |