Millennium Centum

Millennium Centum Feb 15, 2022 18:23:53 GMT -6

Post by gvb on Feb 15, 2022 18:23:53 GMT -6

Millennium Centum
Live from Enterprise Arena in Chicago, IL
Wednesday, February 9th, 2022

The Academy Pre-Show
Hardcore Match

Gabriel Landry VS Erika Eldon

Another Eldon family drama. For those of you not up to speed on the Academy events, Karen’s daughter Erika injured her mother’s boyfriend Gabriel to make sure he couldn’t fight against her boyfriend, the former Gold Star Rainer Nordhagen, back at Below Zero. And Landry obviously didn’t take this betrayal lightly, more so given the bad blood between him and Rainer. Eldon looked like she would’ve wanted to be anywhere but here, clearly fearing the consequence of her actions and the aggressive side they brought out in Gabriel. More so in a match where anything goes, making it the perfect chance at revenge for Landry. He unleashed hell from the very first minutes, blocking Erika in the corner where he could punish her with a series of kicks to the stomach. The blonde rolled out of the ring and tried to flee from a fight she made abundantly clear she never wanted. Gabe went to chase her and grabbed her by the arm halfway on the ramp, pulling her into a ripcord knee strike followed by a DDT on the ramp. Grabbing her by the hair, he dragged her back to the ring, smashing her face on the apron before pushing her under the bottom rope. Eldon had some time to recover while Landry looked for a chair under the ring. He was about to enter the ring as well but a baseball slide from Erika smacked the chair on his face and caused him to lose his grasp on it.

The young girl showed that she learned something from Raynes’ seminar, using the chair creatively to inflict damage to her boyfriend’s mother. Not only did she slam it on his back multiple times but even drove it in his stomach before dropping him onto it with a DDT. Erika hooked the leg but Gabriel kicked out in two. Instructed by her boyfriend Rainer, Eldon then stuck the chair between the top and middle rope in the corner and picked up Landry with the obvious goal to slam his head onto it. The plan backfired as Gabe reversed the attempt and she was the one crashing onto it. As she stumbled back, dazed after the impact, Gabriel jumped and wrapped his legs around her neck, flipping her over with a beautiful reverse hurricanrana. That was the last spectacular move he indulged in, opting for a massive use of weapons to get his payback on Erika. A kendo stick, namely, used on Erika until it broke in half. For her part, Eldon showed great resilience, refusing to stay down and trying desperately to fight back. A kick right there where it hurts gave her an opening to make a comeback, culminating in a near fall after a bicycle knee strike. But Landry quickly regained control, throwing Erika in the corner with a violent Irish whip. The blonde girl slid to a seated position, offering Gabriel a chance to attack him with multiple stomps. Gabriel retrieved the chair that was still stuck in the corner and placed it on Eldon’s face. Leaving the ring through the ropes, he walked the apron all the way to the opposite corner and climbed on top. He took a moment before jumping with a coast to coast dropkick, receiving a round of applause from the fans. Landry pulled the opponent up and brought her back to the center of the ring, looking to finish her. Rainer Nordhagen had seen enough and jumped the barricade, entering the ring and blasting Gabe from behind with a leaping knee strike. The young man fell on top of Erika but the young girl managed to roll through and pin Landry for a win that, no doubt, will only fuel this rivalry even further.

WINNER: Erika Eldon
BY: Pinfall (Leaping Knee To The Back Of The Head), 12:06

The Academy Pre-Show
Team Title Match

Team Noir © (Jasper King & TBA) VS Team Strike (Evelyn Carter & Devin Levandrier)

The Team Title was on the line in this tag match, but the greatest topic of discussion was about who the new member of The Academy, called to replace Bey after the decision to walk away, would be. More so after the conversation between Gian and Helena from last Friday, hinting that the new student is somehow a well known name for the fans. Everybody else was in the ring, the new kid was the only one missing. The lights dimmed down and everybody’s attention turned to the stage. Peyton Holland was the first one to recognize the young man as Luis Rivera. The twenty years old from San Diego was considered the rising star in boxing before being overwhelmed by the scandal involving his agent and promoter. Making his wrestling debut tonight, Luis asked, and obtained, to start the match, receiving some words of encouragement by his tag partner, the first Gold Star Jasper King. One on one against Levandrier, Rivera showed how his incredible footwork could be an asset in wrestling as well, dancing around Devin and giving him a taste of those quick punches. The Canadian tried a right hand of his own but Lucho ducked it and started throwing a flurry of lefts and rights to Devin’s ribs, pushing him back into the corner. There he performed an irish whip sending him to the opposite side and charged for a Superman punch dodged by Levandrier. Rivera crashed into the turnbuckle and Devin took the chance to make the tag to his partner. Carter fired some kicks at the new guy before throwing him to the center of the ring with a monkey flip. Vi jumped on the middle rope and bounced back, landing with a moonsault across Luis who kicked out in two.

The members of Team Strike began working together, isolating their new fellow student who, after a convincing start where he mostly relied on his boxing skills with little wrestling, was now showing his limits coming into a different business. Even in difficulty though, those punches were an absolute game changer. Ask Evelyn, floored with a brutal hook to the jaw that almost knocked her out. Exhausted, Luis headed to the corner and made the tag to Jasper who stepped over the top rope to enter the ring. Devin received the tag from his partner too, and he tried to surprise the King Of Pumpkins with a springboard crossbody, jumping straight into his strong arms. Jasper didn’t think twice and slammed him into the canvas with a powerslam, followed by a huge elbow drop. Devin kicked out and, in the following minutes, used his greater speed to stay on top of the powerhouse, getting close to the win with a cutthroat neckbreaker. In that case Luis was able to break it up, barely beating Evelyn who tried to stop him. Levandrier had Jasper in the corner, hitting him with some knee strikes to the mid-section. King reacted and just pushed to the floor. Devin quickly rolled backwards and got up to his feet but his opponent ran out of the corner just as quickly and cut him in half with a spear. Carter was able to save her team in this case but she couldn’t get there in time when, not long after that, Jasper sealed the deal with a running powerbomb, getting the win for Team Noir.

WINNER: Team Noir (STILL TEAM CHAMPION)
BY: Pinfall (Running Powerbomb), 14:39

WWe cut backstage where we find the Intercontinenta-Lockdown champion Matt Stone hanging out in his locker room with his manager, Nicole Rossi, discussing the events of the previous show. Had we been a little earlier we might have caught the beginning of the conversation.

Matt Stone:
Didn’t I tell you that Veronica could hold her own? Without those meddling Smiths we managed to do what we set out to do and walked away with a win, she even got us the win! So I think it would be best if the next time you see her, you apologize to her for being so cold.

Nicole’s mouth drops open for a slight second as if she was incredibly shocked by such an accusation, she presses both palms of her hands against her chest.

Nicole Rossi:
Me? Cold? I did no such thing!

Matt Stone:
No, of course not, you were just only asking your questions to me out of coincidence, right?

He shakes his head but knows there’s no point in persisting, she’ll only get more defensive.

Matt Stone:
But tonight is all about me, anyway. I’ve got two matches, two chances to successfully defend a championship and be the first person in Millenium history to do so. I’ve already made so much history here. I heard they were thinking of just renaming the company after me, but that’s just a rumour.

Nicole raises one eyebrow before she quickly shakes her head, choosing not to keep focused on the ridiculous things coming out of Matt’s mouth.

Nicole Rossi:
You won’t have any trouble retaining both of your titles and I’ll be right there to raise your hand in victory once it’s all said and done. A true story of success and inspiration for all.

Matt Stone:
You also mentioned on Twitter the other day about a cheering squad, so I trust you brought your pom-poms?

Nicole rolls her eyes.

Nicole Rossi:
Please don’t insult me by lumping me in with your groupies.

He chuckles at her dismissive attitude towards his fans.

Matt Stone:
Like I have time for groupies. Just saying, having that cheerleader outfit and shaking some pom poms is enough to motivate anyone.

Nicole Rossi:
Oh so you admit to having fantasies about me dressed up like a cheerleader?

He raises an eyebrow at her like she just asked the most ridiculous question.

Matt Stone:
What I fantasize about is between me and my mind. I’m more of a French Maid person personally but that’s not the point, you brought up cheer squads so I was going with it.

Nicole Rossi:
God you are such a perv.

Nicole rolls her eyes before she crosses her arms in front of her chest.

Nicole Rossi:
The point is that I think maybe you should appreciate me a little bit more since I’ve been there for all of this success

Matt Stone:
I’d argue the cut of my salary is showing you appreciation but if you’d like more, how about this. When I walk out of here with both titles I’ll take you out for some frosty chocolate milkshakes?

Nicole Rossi:
Well, it’s a start at least…

There’s a slight twinkle in her eyes and a smirk on her lips as she appears to be giving some thought to what else she might want in the future.

Matt Stone:
In the meantime…

He starts, trying to get her to focus.

Matt Stone:
We’ve got to worry about Bree and Leia. Tonight isn’t going to be easy, any big pep talk you have for me?

Nicole gives her head a quick shake to regain her focus before she places both of her hands on Matt’s shoulders so she can look him directly in the eyes.

Nicole Rossi:
Bree and Leia have nothing on you Matt, they want what you have, that much is obvious… but you’re not going to let them stop you from keeping on the path of dominance. The goal is for us to have more gold, not less.

A smile forms on both of their faces before Nicole pulls her hands back, allowing for Matt to open the door, motioning for her to leave the room first as the camera cuts away.

Backstage we find Bree pushing herself with some deadlifts. A firm back belt on, with her black and red ring gear all on as Bree grunts at every lift. Beads of sweat falling off her.

Bree Smith:
100!

She achieves that final rep and stands up. A quick hit of her strawberry flavoured water and a loud gasp as she gets air back into her lungs. At this point she gives a little nod to the camera crew that she's ready to deliver a few words to Matt.

Bree Smith:
Matt Stone. I'm ready for our Iron Man match, Dude. I've been pacing myself, preparing myself to be Hercules here. Go the distance and 'bree' the Iron Breehemoth. Lock you down and lock you out of retaining that Lockdown Championship.

No tricks. No cheap ploys. No excuses. Time to shut you down and shut you out of this double championship run. Leia's going to have either an easy run against you later after you're all bruised up from Spear Spear Spear. From Powerbombs. From Powerslams. Backbreakers, everything. Or....she may have to deal with one angry Dude as you have to walk out with one belt, knowing full well that I'm backstage with the Lockdown belt and that name plate reading Bree Smith.

Bree shakes her hand out a little before she tapes it up. She takes another drink, puts her hat on so she's entrance ready. Dabs herself with a towel and then puts her hands together gratefully towards the camera.

Bree Smith:
Annnd Thank you Millennium for putting me first. You know Matt would throw an excuse out if I was on later in the evening. Right now there's none, Dude. You gotta focus on me. I'm not saving my strength for later. I'm bringing 120% to this match and I'm coming to reap that Lockdown Championship when This Breebarian comes to raid Matt Stonia. You can't keep the gold from me, Dude. If you try, I'll make you cry. That simple.

Bree winks, clicking her tongue and grunts happily, gold & glory hungry before she walks on out humming a little Viking tune as the scene fades out.

Lockdown Championship Match
Matt's Rule: Iron Man Match

Matt Stone © VS Bree Smith

Perhaps not the wisest decision to choose a 60 minute Iron Man match when you know you’ll have to fight again later in the night, but Matt’s pick made for an interesting start of the 100th episode of Millennium. For the next hour the fans would watch him fighting Bree Smith, hoping that the remaining 50 minutes won’t be as much of a snoozefest as the first ten, where the Canadian relied way too much on rest holds, slowing the pace so much that even the “Boring!” chant that accompanied the action in the first minutes had dimmed down to utter silence. The Lockdown champion didn’t care, this was part of his plan to beat the challenger and do it with the least waste of energy. Luckily for those watching the match, Bree broke the monotony when pushed Stone into the ropes and leveled him with a big boot as he bounced back. The Breebarian’s roar echoed in the Arena, waking up the dozing fans who finally let their voice be heard for the good reasons, following every chop Bree landed across Matt’s chest with the characteristic “WOOOOO!” Chop after chop Bree had the champion against the ropes. A clothesline dropped the double champion out of the ring, for the joy of the Chicago fans. After the hard landing, Matt showed no rush in getting back inside the ring, luring Bree into chasing him outside. After a game of cat and mouse, useful to let the clock run a little more, Matt slid back inside the ring and, for a change, stopped running, turning around to boot Bree on the face. He attempted a cover but only managed to get a one count out of it.

The fans had to wait a little longer for the first pinfall of the match, coming at a third of the contest, around the twenty minute mark. And it wasn’t what the fans were hoping to see either, as the Lockdown champion was the one scoring it with a C-c-c-c combo Breaker after a rake to Bree’s eyes in a desperate yet successful attempt to escape a body slam. After scoring the first fall of the match, he slowed the pace down even more if possible. Though now the holds he used weren’t just to run down the clock, targeting Bree’s legs instead. The blonde girl began clawing at the canvas, slowly making her way to the ropes and dragging Matt who had trapped her in a figure four leglock along with her. Eventually she reached salvation, getting free of the painful submission five seconds later when the referee threatened the champion with a disqualification if he didn’t let her go. Bree slowly pulled herself up with the aid of the ropes, keeping stone at distance with an elbow to the face and scooping him up from the ground to perform her backbreaker reps. Four times she drove Matt’s back onto her knee before throwing him across the ring with a fallaway slam. After being manhandled, the defending champion rolled out of the ring once again, escaping the possible pinning predicament.

Halfway through the match, Matt was still in control. Still keeping a slow pace, he rightfully seemed to care more about holding on his title than putting up a show for the fans. He had Bree in the umpteenth headlock, cranking down on her neck while punching her face with his free hands. Smith freed herself with a couple of elbows in the stomach, creating some separation between them. She then threw some right hands at the Lockdown champion, trying to build some momentum for her comeback, but a knee to the stomach immediately put Stone back on the lead. He fired off some knife edge chops before sending the challenger into the ropes with an irish whip. Bree managed to counter the move and send the champion for a run. Matt hit the ropes and bounced back, charging at full speed toward Bree. She launched him in the air and caught him with a thunderous Bree Show (pop-up powerbomb) out of nowhere! Wasting no time, she pinned the champion to make it 1-1. There was the usual short break between falls, at the end of which Bree charged at full speed at the opponent who just stepped out of his corner, bashing him with a devastating running big boot. The impact sent Matt back against the corner, the back of his head hitting hard the top turnbuckle. He slid down to a seated position, seemingly out of it. Bree dragged him away from the ropes and hooked the leg, scoring the second fall welcomed by a roar of approval from the fans and getting the lead.

Now that he had to play catch-up, Matt completely changed his approach to the match. No more rest holds, no more wasting time. Quite the opposite, in fact. Time had suddenly become his worst enemy, inexorably ticking away and forcing him to opt for a more aggressive approach. Bree defended herself quite well and even got close to the third fall with a fireman’s carry neckbreaker but the champ kicked out in the nick of time. Matt’s Stone Cutter was the turning point of the match, interrupting Smith’s momentum and leaving the challenger rolling on the mat in pain. We were over the 40 minute mark, fatigue was creeping in on both competitors and perhaps that was why Matt gladly took a moment to recover rather than pinning Bree attacking her right away. He always kept an eye on her, stalking her like a bloodthirsty beast with his prey, waiting for the moment when she grabbed the middle rope to get up to her feet. He kicked her arm and placed her head between his thighs, lifting the blonde upside down and spiking her on her skull with the Piledriving Miss Daisy. As the Canadian made the cover, Bree instinctively placed her foot on the lower rope, showing great ring awareness. It felt like watching a movie whose scene we’ve seen before, Nicole Rossi sneakingly approaching the ring and pushing the foot down. The plot twist was that the referee caught her and not only did he stop the count, but he chose the Draconian form of punishment sending the manager off. The fans loved to see the rules being enforced, for once, with an iron fist. Matt and Nicole obviously protested but the ref stood by his decision. To add insult to injury, their outcry gave Bree time to recover. She stood up behind Matt’s shoulders and by the time Nicole spotted her and tried to warn him, it was already too late. She locked her strong arms around the champion’s waist and hit a German suplex, holding on for a second one. She struggled a bit with picking herself up and performing the third to complete the Power Of Bree, but eventually succeeded, holding up the bridge for the three count.

How the tables had turned! Now Bree was the one who had all the interest in wasting time and playing with the clock, letting him run down as much as she could. 3-1 was a solid lead, especially with a little over fifteen minutes separating her from her first singles gold in MWE. Of course Matt had other plans, and he really pulled everything he had to come back from the low patch. Feeling the urge to score the two falls in so little time to drag the match to the extra-time with sudden death rules, Matt produced his maximum effort and managed to narrow the gap with his MLG 360 No Scope, though by the time he did there were only six minutes to go. Nonetheless he kept fighting, and perhaps started regretting his attitude in the first part of the match. With Bree in clear difficulty now, he could have really used a few more minutes to complete what looked like an impossible task. The blonde desperately cling on to that advantage she obtained, focusing on trying to block Matt’s offense and counter his moves. She barely survived the S-T-Owned, popping up her shoulder at the very last second. Matt tossed her in the corner and charged in for a clothesline but ate a boot to the face instead. Bree exploded out of the corner with a clothesline, turning the champ inside out. But he quickly pushed himself up and went back on the attack, hitting the challenger with a combination of kicks and elbows. With an irish whip, he sent the groggy Bree into the ropes. Whatever he had in store for her, would it be a Bree-Show of his own or any other move, he couldn’t get it done, as the clock ran down to zero and the bell rang, signaling the end of the match and Matt’s reign as Lockdown champion.

WINNER: Bree Smith (NEW LOCKDOWN CHAMPION)
BY: 3-2, 60:00

We cut backstage to find everyone’s favorite Junior Heavyweight Champion finishing up her match preparations, getting in some last minute stretching before heading down to the ring. As focused as Echo could ever be, she still had her trademark cocky smirk plastered on her face as the camera zoomed out to reveal… The Academy’s “Captain Gold Star” Addison McKinley? She stood proud in a #TeamEcho t-shirt, as she watched Echo reach for her championship, only for Addison to quickly snatch it. Echo turned in a fury which turned to confusion as the title was being held out to her.

Addison McKinley:
I just wanted to wish you good luck tonight, I’m a biiiig fan.

Echo snatched her title away, but before she could chastise the Gold Star, Addison was happily skipping her way down the hall without so much as a glance backwards. Confused, Echo shooker her head, only to have another unexpected visitor.

Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
Echo.

Echo:
I’m busy.

Echo went to push by her former rival, only to have her pathway blocked.

Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
You’re taking this all too lightly. We can all see it. He’s good, really good, and more than that? He doesn’t have to be better than you to win tonight, just luckier.

The Champ rolled her eyes, putting a hand on Tiana’s shoulder and not so gently pushed her aside.

Echo:
It’s a neat little trick you do. You move your lips and Yulia’s voice comes out. You can talk all you want about luck, skill, whatever else, Ti. JJ has the same exact problem you did. He’s on a crusade, he wants to stop the Big Bad Echo from hurting his little friends, of which I could have sworn he only had the one.

Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
One more than you.

The pair both smiled, though Echo started her walk once again.

Echo:
At the end of the day, Ti, I took everything from you. I hurt everyone close to you, pushed you as far as humanly possible, made you reach your breaking point, and after all that you still came up short because you realized too late how badly you really wanted to hurt me. You realized too late that you wanted to do to me what I did to everyone else. You stopped short, and I took advantage of that. JJ is just like you, he doesn’t know what he wants. He’s debating on if it’s for his little girlfriend or his make believe friends or if it’s for him. We all know it’s for him, truly for him, he wants the glory. The adulation. The girl. The title.

She stopped, glancing back at Tiana, taking note that the Fight Lab protege was wearing the custom leather vest gifted to her.

Echo:
And all I want is to hurt any and everyone in my way.

Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
Then we have more to talk about, later… Do your thing the only way you know how, I guess.

Echo smirked before turning away, leaving Tiana to stand and watch as Echo disappeared around the corner.

Junior Heavyweight Championship Match
Tables Match

Echo © VS JJ Night

Second match of the night saw the dominant Junior Heavyweight champion defending her title against JJ Night. The only way to win was to put the opponent through a table but this didn’t stop them from opening the contest with a brawl. Punches flying back and forth between them, a style that favored Echo who won this first exchange and pushed JJ back against the corner. The Kid ducked a right hand from the Australian and threw her off balance, stepping aside and causing the Junior Heavyweight champion to end up back against the turnbuckles. Night climbed to the middle rope and began to throw down punches at the Australian. The fans counted them and as they screamed ten, JJ jumped down and stepped back, watching Echo flopping on the mat. He left the ring and grabbed a table, pushing it inside the ring. As he went to enter it, Echo kicked the middle rope up right between JJ’s legs, leaving him groaning in pain. Echo, instead, grabbed the table and leaned it into an empty corner for a future use. For now, she focused on beating up the opponent, stomping on his leg and putting him in ring post figure four. The commentators wondered why she was working on the legs even though she couldn’t win the match by submission, but Figgles reminded how winning the match and retaining the title has never been the priority for the Australian.

All that work on the leg paid off, slowing JJ’s movements and limiting his aerial assaults. Luckily for JJ, he had other strings to his bow, nailing Echo with a satellite DDT. The young challenger set up the table in the middle of the ring and pulled Echo up to her feet. A quick series of uppercuts to wear her down further before attempting a suplex. Echo fought against it and blocked a couple of attempts, trying to break free with some punches to the side. But eventually Night managed to lift her but Echo managed to shift her bodyweight and land in the space between the opponent and the table. She measured the distance, taking a step forward before going for a German suplex. She either put too much strength in it or miscalculated the distance, throwing the opponent past the table rather than through it. Not too bad for Echo. While she didn’t win the match, she surely did a lot of damage as JJ landed awkwardly on his injured shoulder. Echo picked him up and attacked that body part with some shoulder tackles before trying to lift for a powerbomb. JJ freed himself with some punches to the head. A knee to the stomach immediately shifted the momentum back on Echo's side, and the Australian immediately followed with a shoulder breaker. Signaling she's had had enough, she then stepped on the young man's shoulder and punched him straight on the nose, causing him to bleed profusely. To add insult to injury, the Junior Heavyweight Champion laid JJ on the table to beat him with one of the Nights' trademark moves, the Night Splash. From the top of the turnbuckle, she took a moment to look for Evelyn in the crowd. JJ hopped off the table and quickly ran up the corner, catching the champion and diving backward with a spectacular Spanish fly through the table. The referee couldn’t tell who hit it first, nor could the replay. The two competitors crashed through the table at the same time, a ruinous fall that ended the match in a draw. Echo was the first of the two to stand up, looking at her opponent who was still down in agony. She scoffed and left the ring while medical personnel rushed to the ring to check on Night. His shoulder, the same one he dislocated a few months ago, seemed to be the issue here, especially after the impact on the table and the bad landing.

WINNER: Draw (ECHO STILL JUNIOR HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION)
BY: Both Through The Table, 13:23

Andrew Raynes:
It seems now that both of you have spilt my blood, now you wanna come finish the job.

………. I welcome it.

From the darkness, we see Andrew Raynes emerge, into focus, the MWE Chicago Way Championship draped over his shoulder. He Pats it a couple times and looks over.

Andrew Raynes:
This bad boy right here is what you now covet, trying to take the last piece of me that's left for both of you to try fighting over. With the blood in the water, you both smell off me, you believe that now you two can simply finish me off and try scraping over who's gonna be the one to finish me off and claim this championship.

Make no mistake, I won't be going away that easily.

You'd both be foolish to think of me as an afterthought given I've been Chicago way champion for eighty nine days and already going into my fourth title defense. It's a testament to the sacrifices I have made over the past three months that neither of you could begin to fathom. Instead choosing to pick your spots thinking it'll be much easier for you now that this comes at a more pivotal time for both of you. You think the efforts you've both made in being able to overcome me firmly puts either of you in the driver's seat to have the best chance of taking this away from me.

It doesn't.

Andrew smirks, he's regained some confidence over the past couple weeks. He's here to remind everyone just why he's the reigning Chicago way champion.

Andrew Raynes:
This isn't the first time I've put my back against the wall as a result of my own accord. My whole purpose behind coming back was not giving a fuck what happens to me as a result of my actions. It's a premise that most people don't seem to understand because most people, when they get punched in the mouth, recede and squirrel away because they can't handle what happens to them when they run their mouths a little too much.

I don't stop, I evolve.

What happened against Valentine isn't the first time that I've gotten ahead of myself and paid for it, I have never concerned myself with things that happen to me, every win and loss I brush off and focus on what comes next. It's how I Manage to survive, how I allow my hate to thrive because I don't stop dwelling on my mistakes or my accomplishments. I simply move onto the next and welcome whatever comes.

That's very troubling for both of you.

Andrew pats his belt again, confident in his defense and a measure of revenge against two people that have put him down.

Andrew Raynes:
What's come now is that you're both gonna try and take this away from me, to step into my world as I am the reigning, defending Chicago way champion. in a world where the fans would normally beg for me to lose this, they're going to embrace me with the hate I need to beat both of you.

Because you're in my house and if you think I'm about to let either of you walk into MY house and take what's rightfully mine, I don't think so.

I've broken my back off of sacrifices and done more to myself than either of you can fathom. I've done more over the past three months than any other champion has here in MWE. You find me another champion that's willing to take their belt and go defend it elsewhere; go find another champion that's willing to defend their belt four times in three months, you'd be lucky if any other champion defended their belt once or twice within that time.

What you two have done is simply lucked your way into this match because even after beating me, Valentine, you managed to go and lay a giant egg against Lowry Moss and killed any momentum you may have had. Jordan simply lucked himself into getting another chance simply because he managed to pin me inside the chamber at red line.

At least this time, after i win, he won't have any excuses because Valentine's already in this match and won't be able to blindside you for whatever worthless beef you two had.

However, what I know as well is that you two could easily put your difference aside long enough to eliminate me as a factor in retaining what is mine, you two have enough history that you'd undoubtedly want to settle your differences in determining who's gonna be the next Chicago Way Champion.

I promise you this, you better make sure I don't get back up.

Cause when I do, I'll make sure to move heaven and hell to beat both of you
I've evolved to the form where I am more than just a champion. I've forged myself into an elite level boss in this business. Your failure to prepare will result in your downfall. Until I have absolutely nothing left I will always have a chance. The hate allows me to continue rising because hate never sleeps and never sees zero.

Andrew takes a deep breath and refocused.

Andrew Raynes:
It's why I will successfully defend my Chicago way championship because this is what matters most, where I may have been holding back before will now be in full force as I do whatever it takes to defend my belt. Where you see a wounded animal is where you see my second Life come to pass. The fans bring the weapons and the thirst for destruction in a way that induces hate in the worst way and that will allow wrestling's most hated man to fend off his biggest challenge and ultimately prove who the pretenders and the posers really are.

Because hate is and still will be….

The Chicago way.

Embrace it!

Andrew pats his belt one more time, winks to the camera and walks away.

A large ballroom greets us as the scene opens up. There’s a wrestling ring standing in the middle of it, right in a spot where no one standing would miss a second of the action inside the ring… if there was anyone here. Illumination is not a problem, after all, the venue is ready to host any wrestling event and we all know how well illuminated those should be to be presentable through a screen. After a couple of seconds, the distinct sound of footsteps follows; obviously, someone is walking towards the ring, slowly and meticulously. It seems as if whoever this person is calculated every single step they take to maximize the echo that gets captured by the camera.

Moments later, a scrawny figure appears from one of the hallways leading towards the ballroom area. The man stands there for what feels like an eternity, observing the area with his hands inside his pockets and he sighs and walks towards the ring. As he gets closer to the camera, it becomes apparent that it was none other than Gareth Prichard Jr, the man who dubbed himself The King of Failure. Sporting a dress shirt, with the sleeves rolled up ¾ up his arms; a set of black dress pants, and his wrestling boots, the wrestler, formerly known as The Anarchist, walks towards the ring and softly brushes his left hand against the canvas before jumping and entering the ring. All the ordeal felt as if he was rehearsing an entrance or performing one in front of a capacity crowd… yet, in front of nobody. He then grabs a microphone conveniently placed in one of the corners before he made it to the ring and sits down in the middle, looking directly at the camera.

Gareth Prichard Jr.:
Let me tell you a story…

Gareth looks down at the canvas and tilts his head to the left as he breathes, slowly, before continuing to speak.

Gareth Prichard Jr.:
There was a man who once conquered his White Whale in front of thousands… achieving something he had only dreamt of. Making history and claiming to be the best for the first time in his life. A man that had pursued that very moment since the day he set foot inside a gym. He finally made it, the boyhood dream had become a reality and what better way to achieve it than to do it against the one person he admired the most in the world…

Prichard tilted his head back to look directly at the camera and smirked as he continued talking.

Gareth Prichard Jr.:
If I told you that story doesn’t have a happy ending, you might take me for a fool. But you already do… don’t you? A fact all of you made clear enough when that moment came and no one took a moment to say anything. Not even the same promotion I worked for at that time acknowledged how important that moment truly was… creating something on the fly just for the sake of downgrading it right on the spot.

A deep sigh follows as Prichard reminisces of his brief moment in the spotlight before continuing.

Gareth Prichard Jr.:
Yes, all this time later I’m still bitter and you could say that was the moment that signaled a before and after for me. After that day everything turned sour in this industry. I learned that no one truly cares, not even those who you think would. You’re nothing more than a pawn, a player they can pick up and use whenever they desire. Titles are meaningless, victories are meaningless… so then why vie for them? Why sacrifice your sanity, your well-being, your life for something no one would care about in a couple of months?

Gareth snickers as he closes his eyes momentarily and then picks up right where he left.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
No one listens to your words unless you keep pestering them over and over like a sad little kid who doesn’t know when to stop whining. Unless you are some sort of omnipresent being you get ignored, so why bother when you’re not? Why bother trying to make chicken soup out of chicken shit when no one is willing to go further and they’re too immersed in their asses to even pay the littlest attention to the world surrounding them.

A smile draws on Gareth’s face as he thinks for a moment about what he should say next, no doubt something crossed his mind at this very moment, something that maybe he shouldn’t say so he just smiles… and continues.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
You see, I dubbed myself as The King of Failure because that seems to be where everyone wants me. All of you want me to fail… so being the man of the people that I am… I decided to give you all, what you wanted. I learned a hard truth and that is, that it’s not who holds what… it’s what you make of the spot where you are. No matter where it is, FGA, MWE, Mainstream, or one of the dime-a-dozen vanity shows that pop up now and then… you can count on me to deliver. That made me realize that I’m above any consolation prize.

Prichard gets his back positioned and looks directly at the camera with a smile.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
There is your answer Billy… you were confounded by my actions deeming them as “idiotic”... well let’s agree to disagree. Because why would I want a title that’s beneath a title I willingly let go a couple of months back? A title that even the longest reigning champion that title has had basically dismissed by her whining about “not being good enough”... tell me, why would I sacrifice much further when I proved without a shadow of a doubt, that if I wanted to… I could’ve just won the whole damn thing? I already got what I wanted, Billy. Did you?

Gareth stands up and takes a deep breath closing his eyes, probably imagining a coupe hundred people filling up this ballroom and the atmosphere that must create when the action is hot and the words are hotter.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
I don’t need belts… I don’t want them. Not when there are like twelve titles to get. Not when a whole damn card is full of fucking title matches. Because where’s the value in them? Where’s the value of being the Perseverence champion of a brand that has five other titles above that? Tell me? To hang on your banner on Twitter? To brag about being the fifth-best champion on any given brand? If that’s the case, congratulations… and keep doing what you’re doing.

He turns completely back towards the camera and has a stern look on his face as he continues talking.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
But if your goal is to be the fucking best… then you shouldn’t be complacent and take the crumbs that get thrown your way. No… you should strive for better things… that’s why I do what I do. I am an agent of chaos, I don’t want you to fear me and I don’t want you to feel worried… I just want you to wonder what my next move is because that’s when you stay on your toes. Now both of you want me dead and tell me why I should feel afraid? Megan? Billy? Why should I tremble when the fact that you both want my head on a silver platter… is exactly what I wanted to achieve.

Gareth smiles, putting his head down for a second before driving the microphone back close to his mouth and continuing.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
The three of our names together, tied to a match… would be the Main Event ANYWHERE in the fucking world. But not here. Not because we aren’t better than some of the names above us… but because we don’t have a consolation prize attached to our names… and that, my friends… is why I did what I did.

Gareth gets filled with this air of “I told you so…” as he walks towards one side of the ring and continues talking.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
You see I wanted to prove that titles don’t matter and that I’m above them all. I wanted to prove that if I WANTED TO… I could have whatever I want, after all, I have a plethora of belts to choose from. But I decided to grab the attention of the two wrestlers I KNOW will give me something none other would. Megan and I gave the fans one of the best matches for the IC title… which to be fair is redundant at this point in time… has ever had. She beat me and I’m man enough to admit it, but if she doesn’t admit that I gave her one of the toughest matches in her career… then she has her head more up her ass than I would’ve ever anticipated… and you Billy… if only you were able to see beyond your big ass nose, you would know that there are far greater things to offer than just having “another title” in “another company” because “fucking hell there are like 200 belts to choose from”...

Prichard takes a deep breath as he continues.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
I hope you finally listen… I hope you see why. Because you might say I set up myself for failure… but I see this as a complete victory for me… see you on the other side.

Chicago Way Championship Match
Fans Bring The Weapons

Andrew Raynes © VS Valentine VS Jordan Parker-Kane

We’ve all seen in the past how these matches can get a bit out of hand.. Especially with a crowd like the Chicago fans. See Billy Danielson’s match at Red Line 3 for example. Valentine didn’t even wait to get in the ring to snatch the first weapon from a member of the crowd. A wireless keyboard that earned the nerdy fan a glare from the monster. He put it to good use though, smacking it on Jordan’s head before the match officially started. Keys flew all over the place, scattering on the floor. Andrew blindsided Valentine with a flurry of punches to the back but they didn’t seem to bother the big man too much. With a backfist he knocked Raynes back and scooped him up, dropping him with a body slam on some of the keys covering the mat. One of the fans handed Jordan a life-sized cardboard of Valentine’s manager Evie (don’t ask…) and a perplexed Kane used it to blast the monster. Some questions may be raised on the actual effectiveness of it, Cardboard Evie definitely got the worst of the impact against the Ravager's back. But if Jordan's goal was to get the man's attention to then bash him with the Bomaye knee, well then his plan worked perfectly. Parker hooked the leg, but before Valentine could even kick out (and it looked like he would've done it easily) Raynes broke the pinning predicament with a thunderous White Sox baseball bat shot to Jordan's back. An artist with the bat, Raynes was really swinging for the fences tonight, finding the time to mock the fans saying that if he was on the pitch, the White Sox would finally stand a chance to win the World Series. This earned the obvious boos from the crowd, mixed with some cheers from the Cubs fans present in the Arena.

The level of violence increased, and so did the craziness of the object the fans brought to this match. Valentine got his face caved in with a snow shovel shot by Parker-Kane. The former MMA prodigy then ate a Code Of The Sith by the champ who then whipped him with a replica of the Chicago Way Title, dropping it on Jordan's chest and mocking him by saying that it was the only title he could ever hold. As for the champion himself, he surely didn't enjoy it when the Defiler broke a porcelain vase on his head. Next came a fire extinguisher, thumbtacks and even an umbrella wrapped in barbed wire. The ring looked like a warzone now, the three competitors like they went through hell. All of them had wounds all over their body, Raynes was literally a crimson mask after Valentine dragged a cheese grater across his forehead for a disturbingly long amount of time. The fans were having a blast, enjoying the carnage the three men were delivering. And apparently Evie was loving this too, spurring her monster who was now dominating the match. Jordan got powerbombed into the thumbtacks, Raynes was thrown out literally into the front row with a gorilla press slam. With him out of the equation, Valentine could focus on JPK. As he went to drag him up to his feet, Jordan went low and punched him in the dick. The Prodigy wasted no time and planted Valentine on those same tacks with a nasty DDT. But if these past few months had taught us anything, it is that you can never count Raynes out. And put limits to the MWE fans’ fantasy. Don’t ask why, but one of them brought a plastic cup full of sand and gave it to Andrew Raynes. The Embracer Of Hate threw it on Jordan’s face and blinded the young opponent, easily planting him with the Hate Never Sleeps right away. Valentine tried to get up and break up the pin, but he arrived one moment too late.

WINNER: Andrew Raynes (STILL CHICAGO WAY CHAMPION)
BY: Pinfall (Hate Never Sleeps), 14:41

Backstage in the dressing room area we find “The British Bombshell” and reigning MWE MENTV Champion Glory Braddock on the floor stretching in preparation for her championship defense, a rematch against the violent monster from her past, “The Assassin” Clyde Sutter. The British Bombshell is already dressed in her wrestling gear. Her MENTV Championship belt rests over on a nearby bench. Braddock’s preparation is interrupted when a knocking is heard at the door. Braddock stands up and dusts herself off.

Glory Braddock:
Come in…

The door opens on cue and in walks Glory’s best friend and Glorious Golden Era stablemate, one half of the MWE World Tag Team Champions, Sophie O’Brian. Braddock grins as she embraces Sophie in a tight hug.

Sophie O’Brian
I take it you’re happy to see me.

Glory Braddock:
I’m always happy to see you, mate. Though I must admit, I am a bit surprised that you actually knocked. Typically you just walk on in.

O’Brian smirks and then nods her head.

Sophie O’Brian
This is true. I am rather assertive. And while I did want to stop by and check on you, I considered the possibility that you wanted to be left alone to prepare for what you have to deal with tonight. Considering…

Braddock shakes her head.

Glory Braddock:
Don’t worry about me, Sophie. I have this under control.

Sophie O’Brian
Do you? Glory, you are my closest ally and friend. And that is the only reason why I detest Sutter. The truth is, Sutter probably is more closely aligned with my philosophy than you. Everything he has done in the build up to this rematch fits into my playbook. It is exactly what I would do. He’s been trying to get under your skin by threatening your family. He even appeared at your home in Miami. You can’t tell me that you are not in the least bit bothered by that?

Glory Braddock:
Oh I am more than upset. Sutter has crossed a line, Sophie and he must be punished. But that right there…

She points to the MENTV Championship.

Glory Braddock:
...keeping that away from his clutches is punishment enough. As long as I have that he is reminded of how I beat him. And he can’t stand defeat. He cannot stand to know that he failed. So I’m not going to get reckless out there, Sophie. I am going to beat him and retain the title. That will put him away for good.

Sophie O’Brian
Fair enough. Do you want me to be at ringside for this? Sutter is…

Glory Braddock:
...Sutter is MY problem. I should have listened to you and your brother when you warned me about him. You warned me of his violence and rage. You told me I should have kicked him out of my school but I didn’t listen. I kept him on and then he injured students and trainers. He even hurt my daughter. All because I didn’t listen. He is my problem and I am going to fix it. Besides, don’t you have a championship of your own to defend?

O’Brian nods her head.

Sophie O’Brian
Yes, but Neil and I are more than ready to defend these championships. I’ve made Coleman tap out. And Tank and Dustin? Well, the bigger they are, the harder they fall.

Glory Braddock:
I halfway expected some fancy Sun Tzu quote out of you.

Sophie O’Brian
Sometimes the simplest quotes work. Good luck, Glory.

Glory Braddock:
Back at you, mate.

Sophie turns and walks away.

Not a great night for Evelyn Carter. First the loss suffered in the tag match, then she had to witness JJ putting himself through a table in an attempt to beat Echo for the Junior Heavyweight championship, hurting the recently injured shoulder in the process. Visibly nervous and concerned, the young student is pacing back and forth in front of the medical area’s door.

Finally the door opens and out comes the doctor, seemingly unsurprised to see Evelyn there.

Evelyn Carter:
How is he? Can I see him?

She asks with a trembling voice. The doctor smiles and nods his head, taking a step to the side to clear the path for her. She rushes inside the room, finding JJ sitting on the bed, his right arm heavily wrapped in a tight bandage.

Evelyn Carter:
Oh God…

She brings her hands to her face, covering her mouth as she stares at him with a look of concern, already assuming the worst. JJ looks over at Evelyn and gives her his signature smile.

JJ Night:
Look who it is! Are you good though? You’re looking at me like I’m dead or something!

His smile seemed to momentarily reassure her, though the concern remained.

Evelyn Carter:
I… I’m just worried, you seemed in a lot of pain and now I see this… Please tell me you didn’t injure your shoulder again…

JJ laughs and shakes his head.

JJ Night:
Does it look hurt? No way!

JJ then tries to rotate it to show he’s fine but he soon grimaces and holds his bad shoulder.

JJ Night:
Okay, maybe I’m not 100% right now but it’s not like before, I promise. I’ll just rub some dirt on it and I’ll be fine. Besides, I’m not done with Echo yet. Not by a long shot!

She shakes her head and sighs.

Evelyn Carter:
I suppose not… I’m pretty sure you’ll get another chance at the Junior Heavyweight title and I’m really happy for you… But at the same time, I can’t help but be worried. Between you being reckless like tonight and Echo being out to injure people… I just would hate to see you back at the Academy again.

A moment of silence follows her words. JJ raises an eyebrow, causing Vi to roll her eyes.

Evelyn Carter:
You know what I mean…

She playfully punched his shoulder, obviously not the one he injured. JJ playfully feigns an injury before letting out a laugh.

JJ Night:
You trying to take out my other shoulder or something? At this rate, I won’t even make it back to the Academy even!

He laughs again before the look on his face becomes a bit more serious.

JJ Night:
She was right though, you know? My approach has been wrong this entire time. Sometimes? You gotta fight fire with fire and the next time I come face to face with Echo in that ring? I’m going to do whatever it takes to take her out. Why? Because that’s the only way to do it against someone like her. And most of all? I gotta do it for me. I have to be a little selfish for once. If I don’t bring that edge with me? Then yeah, I will end up back at the Academy. Back at square one. I won’t let that happen though. You got that?

Evelyn’s expression changed as he spoke. From the joyous smile his laughter painted on her lips, to the serious and worried look she’s wearing now.

Evelyn Carter:
I guess you’re right… Not a fan of this fight fire with fire thing, nor a fan of Echo for what it’s worth… But I can see how important this is to you. It’s not just about the title anymore… It’s not even revenge for the awful things she did…

Careful not to touch the injured arm, Vi wraps her arms around JJ and rests her head on his good shoulder.

Evelyn Carter:
You gotta do what you gotta do… And even if I’m scared… I want you to know that I’m 100% supporting you.

JJ uses his hand that’s wrapped around her to rub her shoulder reassuringly.

JJ Night:
Hey, that’s all I ask for and to be honest? That’s all I really need. Your support means everything to me, you know that? Well, if you didn’t, you know now!

A big grin runs across his face.

JJ Night:
Seriously, thank you for always having my back.

Evelyn Carter:
Of course…

She smiles up to him, lingering in that hug a little longer.

Evelyn Carter:
Well, I gotta go and find my sister now… You get some rest and heal that shoulder up. You’ll get her next time, just, please, take the time your body needs and don’t rush coming back in the ring.

JJ Night:
I think the only way to keep me from rushing back is to preoccupy my time somehow. Maybe getting to hang out with a certain somebody more.

He can’t help but grin before nodding.

JJ Night:
But yeah, go find your sister and I’ll talk to you later. Thanks for checking in.

MENTV Championship Match

Glory Braddock © VS Clyde Sutter

Glory ducks Sutter’s attempt at a quick clothesline from hell and she rebounds with a spinning heel kick. Braddock then lands a low dropkick to the knee, follows it up with a chop block, and then snaps off a dragon screw. Braddock quickly applies Glorify Thy Name, her variation of the Indian Death Lock. Sutter eventually reaches the ropes. Braddock goes right back to the leg and attempts to apply the Glorify Thy Name again but Sutter throws a right, and then another, and a third finally forces Braddock to release. Sutter connects with Unforgiven…the claymore kick! Ordinarily a kick with this force would be the end of it but Sutter’s leg is already hurt and he cannot make the cover. Sutter gets to his feet followed by Braddock. She rushes in and gets caught by a spine buster from Sutter. The Assassin pulls Glory up and delivers a buckle bomb and he follows that up with a clothesline from hell. He covers…1…2…Kickout!

Sutter with a tilt a whirl into a side slam. Sutter with a choke slam. He covers…1…2…Kickout! Sutter is showing visible signs of frustration. He measures Glory as she uses the ropes to pull herself up. He charges, looking for another Unforgiven but Glory lowers the top rope and Sutter goes flying over the top and to the outside. Braddock takes to the air with a dragonrana off the top onto Sutter on the outside! Braddock smashes him face first into the steel steps repeatedly. She measures him, apparently preparing to kick his head against the steel ring post. She charges but Sutter catches her in mid-air and then pivots to buckle bomb her on the steel ring post! The Assassin slides into the ring to break the count. He rolls back outside and cleans off the Announce table. He takes Braddock and sets her up for a power bomb. He flips her up but Glory counters into Shekhinah Glory! The referee is beginning the count…1…2…3…Sutter is fading away…4….5…Sutter drops to one knee….6….Sutter uses every ounce of energy left to muscle Glory back up and then power bombs her through the announce table!

The referee stops the count to check on Glory. She is coughing up blood. The referee wants to stop it. Sutter threatens him against it. Glory says no, don’t stop the match. Against his best judgment the referee allows the match to continue. Sutter picks up Glory and throws her back into the ring. Sutter hoists Glory up and connects with one power bomb, drops her for a second power bomb, and then transitions into an F5 completing Judge, Jury, and Executioner. Instead of covering Sutter locks in Judgment Day. Glory is still coughing up blood but won’t tap out. The referee finally calls for the bell

WINNER:Clyde Sutter (NEW MENTV CHAMPION)
BY: Referee Stoppage, 12:52

In her wrestling gear “Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page walks into her locker room with a devilish grin on her face. Casually sitting on the couch is Duke Andrews.

Duke Andrews:
What’s with that look?

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page:
What look? I am just happy to see you. Duh!

Tiffany sits down on the couch next to Duke and sets her head on his shoulder.

Duke Andrews:
You always are happy to see me. That’s a given because I’m a sexy beast.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page:(Smiling)
Yeah, you are.

Duke Andrews:
Now back to that devilish look on your pretty face. Like you are or were up to something.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page:(Rolling her eyes)
Ugh, fine. You’ll probably hear about it anyway. I may or may not have run into Dusty a little bit ago…

Duke Andrews:
What did you do?

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page:
What makes you think I did anything?

Duke gives Tiffany a look.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn:F
iiine. You know how despite “hating my guts” Dusty is crushing on me?

Duke Andrews:
I can’t fault the man for that. You are smoking hot.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page:
So…I might have done my stretching for the match in a place where I knew he would see me and let's just say his eyes were lingering.

Duke Andrews:(Chuckling)
You’re such a bad girl.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page:(Devilishly smiling)W
ell…it’s one of the many reasons why you are so into me.

Duke kisses Tiffany on her forehead.

MWE Tag Team Titles Match
Triple Threat Tag Team

The Glorious Golden Era © VS Tiffany Lynn-Page & Megan Coleman VS Tank Steiner & Dustin Douglas

Not really the best situation for the champs who could end up losing the titles without even getting involved in the final decision. Maybe that was why they insisted on starting the match and tried to stay in for the longest time. A wearisome approach to a high stakes match, especially when they had to put up with Dustin’s and Tank’s overwhelming strength, but the Glorious Golden Era would much rather be in control of their own destiny than having to hand over the gold for someone else’s demerit. Both Neil and Sophie came very close to get pinned in at least one occasion each: Sophie almost got beheaded by Tank’s Das Boot and only saved herself thanks to Megan’s intervention. Newman Got flattened by Coleman’s Meg Kick and managed to get his shoulder up at the very last second. Rough night all around for the former MENTV champion as he, being Steiner’s only male opponent, became the only recipient of the Austrian’s brutal chops. The fans were loving it as Tank’s big hand tore the skin of Newman’s chest, following with a “Wooooo” every strike. Neil, instead, wasn’t a fan of that, leaning into the corner with his bruised chest, wondering how to get out of this situation. Eventually this torure came to an end as Herr Steiner fired him from the only neutral corner he was in to the one where Douglas was waiting in, cheering on his partner. The impact against the turnbuckle was hard, due to the extraordinary force Tank put in it. Newman groaned in pain after the impact, arching his back. He still managed to react quickly and raise his leg to the charging opponent, kicking him in the face. He fired a back elbow to knock the Big Nasty off the apron and rolled under Tank’s clothesline, regaining the center of the ring. Aware that if he tried to reach the corner the opponent would have likely stopped him before he could make the tag, he turned around and lifted the big man over his shoulders in a fireman’s carry position, dropping him on the mat. Finally he had the path to his corner clear of any obstacles and made the tag to Sophie.

Eventually something had to give and after twelve minutes where the Glorious Golden Era actively took part in this match, they were forced to take a break. It was a blind tag made by Tiffany at Sophie’s expense that interrupted the champion’s performance, forcing them to watch from outside as the two other teams battled for their titles. No love lost between the four of them either, still clear in the two men’s minds how the opponents cost them their previous shot. And the relationship between Tiffany and Duke didn’t save her from Dusty’s revenge. He and Tank worked like a well oiled machine, lashing out at the former MENTV champion with hard strikes and devastating combined moves. The Murder Train held her up in a wheelbarrow position while Steiner hit the ropes and came back with a nasty running kick to the side of the head. Douglas made the cover but everyone else stormed the ring. Herr Steiner intercepted Meg and threw her into Newman with a belly to belly suplex, preventing the two of them from making the save. But Sophie was able to dive in and interrupt the count. The meddling became more and more frequent, and so were the tags, especially the sneaky ones. It was becoming legitimately hard to keep track of who was legal, most of the time there were three to six competitors in the ring anyway. For the record, Newman and Tank were the legal competitors in that massive six-person brawl. One by one bodies started to fall. The first one was Tiffany, hit by Neal’s End Game Classic. Newman got brutalized in the corner by Dustin’s King Kai Bomb and the Murder Train didn’t even have time to turn around before a Super Woman Punch blasted him from behind and dropped him on top of Newman. The referee had the first doubt, almost getting in position to count only to change his mind at the last moment. Tank cleaned the ring a bit by unceremoniously throwing Coleman over the top rope, only to fall to Sophie’s Ode To Braddock a moment later. Tiffany had recovered from the vertical suplex into a double knee backbreaker and elbowed O’Brian in the face with the Judas Effect. Seeing that the referee was a bit lost, she hooked Sophie’s legs and made the cover. The official fell for it and dropped in position counting the one, two, three. New champions were crowned, despite the legitimate grievances from the Glorious Golden Era, rightfully feeling robbed of the gold.

WINNER: Tiffany Lynn-Page & Meg Coleman (NEW MWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS)
BY: Pinfall (All Eyes On Me), 13:47

The scene opens in a locker room backstage. Sitting down on a brown wooden bench is one of the challengers for the vacant Cloud Gate Championship, Faizah Marshall. Standing behind her with his hands on her shoulders, giving her a much needed massage is Clyde Eldon. Slightly off to the right keeping an eye on what’s going on is the mammoth TD Batterson with his arms folded into his chest.

Faizah Marshall:
If people knew how good with your hands you are, you’d need a large stick to swat away all the women knocking at your door.

Looking a bit nervous doing the massage Clyde seems so focused he takes a moment to register what she said.

Clyde Eldon Jr:
Yeah...Yeah…

Snapping himself out of it, not wanting to ruin the moment.

Clyde Eldon Jr:
Just want you ready to go for your title match, I know you got this.

Faizah Marshall:
Hell yeah I do. Joey knows deep in his heart he doesn’t want to become Cloud Gate Champion. He was in the World Title picture two months ago. This is no more than a consolation prize. And Summer Collins?

Faizah rolls her eyes.

Faizah Marshall:
The nerve of Fabolous guaranteeing they were going to win before the tournament even started. I already put down Jessica. This won’t be a f-a-b-o-l-o-u-s for that bitch either.

Faizah sports a smile on her face.

Faizah Marshall:
Thanks for always believing in me.

Clyde Eldon Jr:
I always will. Know it has been rough for you the past couple months. Nothing can stop you.

Faizah nods.

Faizah Marshall:
Can you stop?

Clyde Eldon Jr:
Am I doing something wrong?

Faizah Marshall:
No, it’s not that. You’re doing everything right actually... there’s something I need to tell you. Take a seat.

Clyde takes a seat next to Faizah. She places her hand on his leg.

Faizah Marshall:
Clyde, you have come into your own. You have shown beyond a shadow of a doubt that you are a good dude. I have... well... some would say I’ve been a tad temperamental and no better than the woman who I hate more than life itself. That’s Faith by the way. Trin is annoying. That’s besides the point. Anyway, I haven’t conducted myself in a way where you should admire me, here you are, having my back at every turn. Telling me how great I am. How beautiful I am. You’ve never wavered. I appreciate that more than you know. Next week is Valentine’s Day. How would you like to be my Valentine?

Clyde is thrown off by this. The crowd in the arena is as well as an audible gasp can be heard. It’s like Clyde is frozen in time. Faizah smirks. She snaps her fingers twice.

Faizah Marshall:
Hello. Are you there?

Clyde clears his throat. He has finally regained his composure.

Clyde Eldon Jr:
Of course, I’d love to!

Faizah kisses him on the cheek.

Faizah Marshall:
We can do anything you want. I have faith you’ll make our day memorable. Now, can you go check if the champagne is still chilled? I plan on getting wasted tonight.

Clyde nods. He stands up. He goes to exit the locker room. The minute Faizah looks at TD, he makes sure he sees him shaking his head.

Faizah Marshall:
What?

TD Batterson:
Don’t lead the kid on, Faizah.

Faizah Marshall:
I meant everything I said!

TD Batterson:
But we both know you’re not into him like that.

Faizah Marshall:
And? He knows he’s my bestest friend. What kind of friend would I be if I didn’t show my appreciation for everything he has done for me. Valentine’s Day doesn’t always need to be a day dedicated to romance. I love that we’re friends. Isn’t that enough?

TD sighs. Faizah shrugs.

Faizah Marshall:
Can we talk about this later? I have a Cloud Gate Championship to win.

Faizah stands up. She walks towards the exit. TD isn’t too far behind. The scene fades.

Backstage we find The Most Loved Man on the Planet standing next to his latest client, one half of Fabulous, the lovely Summer Collins.

Leviticus
Ladies, gentlemen, boys and girls, and yes, even you Faizah…all you are in store for a historic moment tonight! You are going to be privileged to bear witness to the crowning of a new Cloud Gate Champion, an absolutely Fabulous Cloud Gate Champion, and that lovely young piece of ass…

Collins smacks him in the back of his head.

Leviticus
OUCH! Uh, I mean, that lovely beauty is standing next to me! Captain Capitalism, The Titan of Twitter, The Sultan of Social Media brings to you, your next MWE Cloud Gate Champion, I bring to you SUMMER COLLINS!

St. Levi applauds. Summer smirks.

Summer Collins
Thank you, Levi. Maybe this arrangement will work out after all? I mean, so far I have had to overcome Valkyrie, Omari Johnson, and Leia LeBeau to get here tonight. And unlike SOME people in this match, I have earned my way here, and when I win this match…and I will…I will have also EARNED the right to be called champion.

Collins chuckles.

Summer Collins
Faizah, I cannot fault you for doing whatever it takes to get to the top. Hell, I have taken shortcuts my entire life to get what I want. When the old veterans talk about knowing all the dirty tricks in the book? My family wrote most of those dirty tricks. I’m adding new chapters to that book on dirty tricks every single day. You want to talk about taking shortcuts? I can take shortcuts with the best of them. And I can cheat better than you. And unlike my friend Jess, I am not above cheating and taking shortcuts to get what I want. It’s just that when Jess is around I do try to humor her and play by her rules. Jess is a good girl, Faizah. But do you know what else Jessica is?

Collins smirks knowingly.

Summer Collins
She’s NOT here. Well, she’s not in the match tonight. This is all about me. And you are just one mere obstacle in my way of becoming MWE Cloud Gate Champion. Did I make a guarantee? Yes, I did. I called my shot because I know just how good I am, and I also know how smart I am. I am smarter than you, I am better than you, and that’s why I will become champion here tonight. Even if it means having to cheat.

She snickers.

Summer Collins
Joey…I know you want this as badly as I do, but tonight is not your night. Tonight belongs to me and just like Faizah, you are but an obstacle, an obstacle that is easily removed.

Leviticus
But have no fear, Joey, The Maharajah of Marketing is here! Even though you will lose tonight I will be there to make it up to you with brand new products to line your pockets…and my pockets…mostly my pockets…with cash! Joey LeClair: The Toilet Paper! Joey LeClair: The Outhouse! On sale now at MWE Shop Dot Com…

The Emperor of Entrepreneurship winks. Then he and Summer walk off.

The scene opens up on the rooftop of the Millennium Wrestling Enterprise’s arena where Joey Leclair is seen standing overlooking the city when he turns to face the camera.

Joey Leclair :
I come here before every big fight because the open air, and bright lights of the city help clear my mind, and focus on the task at hand, and tonight may be one of my biggest tests since arriving in MWE, because Faizah while still a rookie? Already has an impressive showing stunning audiences worldwide, and is one one of the most intelligent and athletic performers I have ever seen, and there is a damn good reason she calls herself the best at everything because she may just be! Then we got Summer Collins who just like Faizah? Is a very intelligent performer and is pound for pound for pound one of the best wrestlers in the business today, but enough praising my opponents, because it's time to spit some facts.

Joey places his left hand in his right palm, and cracks his knuckles.

Joey Leclair :
Anyway you look at this match? You could argue that any of us three can win at any given time, and this is true, but let me set it straight for you, because Yes Faziah is a standout rookie who has came close to capturing the Cloud Gate Championship once before, and second chances don’t come often so she is going to be giving it her all to not squander this chance, but you see? For all the speed, and athletic talent she has? She lacks in strength, and with two other opponents? She can’t hippity hop all over the place forever, because if,,, no when she is grounded? She isn’t going to be able to use all that speed in this match again, because I am coming after both her, and Summer Collins hitting like a truck, and when she realized that speed, and agility isn’t enough to carry her through like it has time, and time again? The inexperience will shine through when she is forced to wrestle the mat game with me, and Summer, she has no chance, not even the slimmest in beating us in our element.

Joey lets out a long sigh before continuing.

Joey Leclair :
Then we have Summer Collins who will be the tricky one, but you see? Luckily I have faced many opponents like her in my career, and I plan on making her go the distance so that when she starts to get tired? The urgency to finish the match quickly kicks in which allows for mistakes, and when that surge of big offense kicks in, and fails to finish the match> frustration, and anger will kick in clouding her judgment, which will put the match in checkmate, and yes I realize that while the plan i layed out is sound? Actually executing it will be the hard part, and I am well aware of my own weaknesses as well, and so this match will be a thinking man’s competition.. A game of chess if you will, but I cannot afford to fail after making it this far. Faizah? Tonight you will learn what heartbreak feels like in this business, and tonight’s loss will define your career, because either the loss will piss you off, and motivate you to move forward, or it went mentally break you, and send you into an early retirement ending such a promising career in this business.. Such is the nature of this business, and so tonight you learn just how inexperienced you really are, and as for summer collins? You will go the distance, but in the end? The result will not be fabolous, and you will go home crying to your boyfriend whom I have beaten as well in the past so I guess tonight I can say I pulled a full house on the Collins Newman Camp hah, but jokes aside? I am not coming into this match for a game, but i'm walking through both of you, and walking out your new Clouds Gate Champion! That's a promise.

Joey turns around, and starts looking back out over the city again as the scene comes to an end.

Cloud Gate Championship Match
Triple Threat

Joey Leclair VS Faizah Marshall VS Summer Collins

Eighteen competitors entered the tournament to crown the new Cloud Gate champion after Faith Savell was forced to relinquish it due to the injury suffered after Lucie Callaway's attack. Only three of them survived and earned the right to compete for the green brand's most coveted prize at Centum. Joey Leclair, Summer Collins and Faizah Marshall, all of them ready to add their name to the prestigious list that includes the likes of Lowri Moss, Melissa Reeves and, of course, the singles longest reigning champion in the company history, Tiff. By far the less experienced of the pack, Faizah tried to impose herself in the early going exploiting her speed and agility but after giving a glimpse of what she’s capable of with a beautiful diving tornado DDT on Summer, she was shot down by Joey with a Prodigal Elbow as she jumped on him with a springboard crossbody. The former Chicago Way champion looked focused and determined to get some gold back around his waist after his failed World championship campaign. He began to ruthlessly stomp down at Faizah’s head, only stopping when TD dragged her out of the ring. Leclair glared at him, forgetting for a moment about the third person involved, Summer Collins. The former tag champion tried to pin him with a backslide but the Canadian kicked out in one. Collins quickly delivered a shining wizard but couldn’t capitalize as Marshall entered the ring behind her back and dropped her with a neckbreaker. The Academy student then landed with her leg across Summer’s neck with a springboard leg drop, obtaining the first near fall of her match. Joey’s strength and his experience in competing at the highest levels allowed him to take control, imposing his pace and focusing his attacks on the rookie, quickly taking Summer down every time she attempted a comeback.

Working together in a temporary, fragile alliance, the two women were able to put an end at Joey’s dominance. First they bombarded him with kicks then they grabbed one arm each and fired him into the ropes. Leclair bounced back toward the center of the ring into a double dropkick. As soon as they got up, the alliance was over as Faizah quickly grabbed Summer from the back of her head and slammed it on the canvas, trying a quick cover and getting another two. Summer fought back and obtained a near fall of her own with the Summer’s End. As Marshall left the ring once again to regroup, she traded some blows with Joey. When it seemed that the Prodigy was about to win the exchange, she took him down with a drop-toe-hold and put her in the Bear Market (STF). Joey managed to reach the ropes and Summer immediately let him go. Faizah tried another sneak attack but she crashed into Collins’ elbow, stumbling back a few steps. The Florida native planted her with the Stock Market Crash but Joey came back in time to ruin her dreams of holding singles gold. The match continued, Leclair regained control and planted Summer with a rope-hung DDT, still not enough to win. The former Gold Star was lurking in the corner, waiting for the right opportunity to strike. The chance presented itself when Joey, after knocking Summer on her ass with the Prodigal Elbow, got into another argument with TD, guilty of grabbing his foot to prevent him from making the pin. Leclair had had enough of him and went for a rare pescado, getting caught in mid-air by Batterson. The referee immediately told him to let Joey go, but the catch with triple threats is that there’s no disqualifications. TD could ram Leclair spine-first into the turnbuckle and adjust him on his shoulders for a powerbomb. The immediate and understandable expulsion was a small price to pay to serve the victory on a silver platter to his employer. Faziah kicked Summer out of the ring and rushed to pin Joey, obtaining the three count, the win and the Cloud Gate Championship.

WINNER: Faizah Marshall (NEW CLOUD GATE CHAMPIONSHIP)
BY: Pinfall (Powerbomb On The Apron), 16:31

We see Alex Andrews sitting on the trunk of her car that is sitting in the parking garage. She glances from side to side and then at the camera as it zooms in slightly. She grabs the MWE Riot Championship and pulls it into her lap.

Alex Andrews :
First of all, I just want to thank management and Emi for agreeing to this match. I know Emi knows how much having this match means to me, and it being for the Root Championship is all the better. It adds a bit of stakes to the match, doesn't it?

She smiles and she runs her fingertips across the belt's faceplate.

Alex Andrews :
You didn't have to let me on your charity shows when I was just some no name rookie,but you did and since then, I'd like to think I've done alright for myself. I mean, I won an award even if I don't tend to give credit to those things, it was still a shock to the system. But anyways, Emi. Big Strong Girl. I've always wanted to text myself against you and am glad we finally have that chance before you hang up your boots for good.

Alex coughs and looks a bit serious as she speaks.

Alex Andrews :
I know my announcement and challenge hasn't been met with enthusiasm from everyone. One man has been very vocal about his displeasure of me defending the Riot Championship against an outsider. Against a non-roster member. I get the criticism, I really do. And I thought about that decision long and hard. But I've got to do things MY own way, right? I am my own champion and shouldn't have to set myself up to the previous one's standards, right? Like I get it, he puffed up his chest about his superiority and how he ran through the entire roster, blah blah blah. But still had to try and rely on cheap tricks to try and retain his belt. So I get to do my own thing as champion and this ONE time, I want to be selfish. This is a match for me. And one I'm going to put my everything into. Emi deserves the best Lady Limitless out there And that is what she is going to get.

Alex chuckles to herself and pulls her championship belt onto her shoulder. She hops off her trunk and grabs her gym bag with her other hand.

Alex Andrews :
See you out there.

And with that, Alex walks out off the scene as it fades to black.

We cut to behind the scenes where we see Emi Yamamoto, donning her ring gear, all ready for her upcoming match against Alex Andrews. As the camera focuses on her however, we notice that she looks slightly uncomfortable. For a moment, she stops warming up, acknowledging the camera, and gives a nervous smile.

Emi Yamamoto:
Hey everyone!

A pop can be heard from the crowd.

Emi Yamamoto:
Thank you guys. It is such a huge honor to finally be back here in MWE, not as a referee, but as a wrestler. But when Alex Andrews challenged me to a match, I could never say no. I mean, how could I? I remember meeting Alex for the first time back in the first show at my training school Love Power, and I watched her blossom into the champion she is today. I knew she would be the future of this industry, and I know this is only the beginning of what will be an amazing career.

The mood suddenly drops as Emi's usual positive vibe suddenly turns to one of reluctancy. What she was about to say was very difficult.

Emi Yamamoto:
And that is why...I cannot think of a better opponent to have my final match with...

There is a stunned silence for a moment as Emi tries her best not to break down into tears.

Emi Yamamoto:
Last year, I made the announcement that 2022 was going to be my final year as a wrestler. And since that announcement, I have had some of the best matches of my whole life. I got to wrestle so many dream opponents, I got to wrestle for so many awesome companies, and I could not be happier with everything that I've accomplished in the last decade. But not everything lasts forever, and as much as I love this sport, it has taken its toll on me physically and mentally. I've come back from so many early retirements, and for once, I want to go out on my own terms. That's why I want to announce, after tonight, I am officially retiring from in-ring competition once and for all.

A huge round of applause can be heard from the audience as Emi struggles to contain herself. The emotion is really visible on her face, but she maintains a strong will and continues to speak.

Emi Yamamoto:
I don't know how I can possible thank everyone who has ever supported me over the years, through my best and through my worst. I have a super long list of people who I want to hug, maybe now I'll have the time to actually go through it. I have learned so much over the years, not just about this sport, but about who I am, and I hope that I have encouraged others to stay true to themselves and be happy with who they are, no matter what shape or size you are, it's always what's inside that counts.

Another round of applause from the crowd.

Emi Yamamoto:
I do hope that my journey has meant something to at least someone, and that more people can stay true to themselves in this sport. I want to stay true to myself tonight, and that's by giving Alex Andrews a challenge that she deserves. Since this will be my last ever match, I promise that I will give her everything I have left. I will not hold anything back. Win, lose or draw, this will be a night that no one will ever forget.

And with that, Emi gives a farewell wave before warming up off camera. The camera switches back to ringside, where the crowd give her one last applause, and the commentary team ponder on what was just said.

Riot Championship Match

We heard all about the level of respect and the friendship between these two competitors, we heard about Emi’s looming retirement and how much this match means to her. The Japanese wrestler was welcomed with a heartfelt applause from the MWE fans, a few “Welcome Back” signs reminiscing of Emi’s time as a referee in this company. If she could have thanked them one by one, make no mistake she would have. She still waved her hand and collectively thanked them before meeting Alex in the middle of the ring and shaking her hand in a gesture of respect. Then the bell sounded and the two women started doing what they do best, putting on an authentic clinic for the fans. They traded holds, punches and kicks all in the absolute respect of the rules. Every rope break was granted, and neither one of them ever dreamed of taking advantage of it. A nice, clean fight for a change, and Emi was the one getting the early edge by catching the running opponent and slamming her on the canvas with a Tour Of The Islands. Alex’ reign seemed to be nearing its end already, but the Riot champion popped up her shoulder in time. A close call for the champion who soon realized that she needed to change gear. Nobody would underestimate Emi Yamamoto and surely it wasn’t the case with Andrews but it’s safe to say that the Japanese’s strong start took her and many others off guard. Andrews tried to fight back, but right when it seemed she was finally getting some momentum, Emi caught her with the Osaka Slam (Alabama Slam). Emi bounced off the ropes and jumped on Lady Limitless with the Hippo Hop (running senton) obtaining another near fall.

Emi was really pushing Alex to her limit tonight. The Riot champion was known for spoiling her fans with impressive performances that earned her the award for Female Wrestler Of The Year but tonight she had to go the extra mile against an incredibly determined Emi Yamamoto. Getting free from her Emi Bomb attempt with a flurry of punches to the skull, Alex quickly planted her opponent with a snap DDT. Although dizzy, Emi quickly got up to her feet and swung with a right hand. Andrews ducked it and took her down wth a sweep kick, attempting a quick cover from which Emi kicked out in time. Little by little, Alex regained ground and forced Emi on the defensive. She pulled out the big guns, hitting Emi with the best moves in her arsenal. The Queen’s End (hammerlock DDT), the Alex Crusher and even the Elysium bicycle kick all hit the target but weren’t enough to keep the stoic Japanese. The champion went for the killing blow, setting up Emi for the Hella Rough but Big Strong Girl countered her attempt and shoved Alex away. She turned around quickly into a shotgun dropkick from Yamamoto that sent her into the corner. Andrews flopped into a seated position and got squashed by the challenger’s Bowling Ball. Another cover made by Emi-Sensei but once again Alex survived. The two met once again in the middle of the ring, engaging in a shoot fight. A stiff back and forth that fired up the very vocal fans who were absolutely loving what the two friends were showing tonight. Emi seemed to be getting the best, landing a few consecutive punches to the champion’s jaw. But Andrews fought back, landing a kick to the stomach that pushed Emi a couple of steps back. Enough for her to connect the Brain Death and successfully retain her title. After the three was counted, the two women gifted the fans with another rare gesture of sportsmanship, hugging in the middle of the ring. Emi then raised Alex’ arm and invited the fans to tribute her another applause.

WINNER: Alex Andrews (STILL RIOT CHAMPION)
BY: Pinfall (Brain Death), 16:14

The camera cut to backstage, steel rings resembling a cage hanging on the walls. As the camera zoomed in, delicate fingers could be seen caressing and interlocking with the steel chains, the view cutting back to see a hand of glorious, shining brunette locks hanging down. As the figure began to speak, it was very clear that this was “The Show” Leia LeBeau, the Number One Contender to the MWE Intercontinental Championship, and quite the controversial figure lately due to a number of her tactics since the new year.

Leia LeBeau:
The Mississippi Coast Coliseum felt the power of The Show on January 23rd, standing tall with the often foolishly overlooked Nightfall Rising, in my eyes, the single most talented team within MWE. You saw us, you watched us do our thing, and you were so entertained by every little thing we did. And by the end of Riot’s Main Event, the place we belong, we were victorious. And that is exactly what you want from a Season Premiere.

The absolutely gorgeous Savage model spun in her place, grinding her backside against the steel mesh, performing a sultry dance that wouldn’t seem amiss in the numerous clubs on the strip of Las Vegas. She was attired in an outside of Millennium green and gold, an image of the Intercontinental Championship on one leg, and her own face on the other. That was confidence personified.

Leia LeBeau:
The Pensacola Bay Center in Pensacola, Florida felt the power of The Show on January 26th. Three days later, a second main event, and only one Show that matters.

Her rich lips blew a seductive kiss towards the camera, followed by a sultry wink as she ran her hands down her thighs, performing a little dance for the cameras before grabbing her infamous cane, twirling it in her hands.

Leia LeBeau:
Megan Monroe will never understand how good she once had it, both in her personal life, and her career as Intercontinental Champion, but she is a stupid bish with a tendency to squander everything decent that she ever came across, and now she is put down, and knows exactly who the is the crème de la crème. And sugar, you’re just sour cream, and sour as they come.

She let out the most playful of giggles, readjusting the dainty little top hat on her head, before outstretching her arms, asking a question of the audience.

Leia LeBeau:
Who else in the history of MWE has competed in TWO main events in a week? Who else in the history of MWE has won both main events? I can’t recall any, but my achievements will live long in the memory. It was the perfect beginning to a new season, and the improved ratings over the past few weeks attest to that. The Show is The Draw. There isn’t any denying that now.

She twirled her cane dramatically, dropping down and up as she stood to the side, shaking her derrière as she did so, knowing that those who were watching were loving the sight of her.

Leia LeBeau:
Now while I returned to the city that made me their figurehead, Las Vegas, and by how my Donnie said it, an absolute fluke and an illegal outside of the ring assault cost me the shot at the Cloud Gate Championship that I so longed for… And the Nevada faithful were not pleased at all. But with every negative twist in the tale, something beautiful comes of it. I’m not going to stand here like Marshall and complain constantly. She rightfully lost her shots a dozen times over, and I beat her to the punch. But I don’t complain. I make something of myself. And that’s why I’m higher on the card than her, when she competes for a prize she doesn’t deserve.

Her movements halted, instead holding a hand to her heart as she gazed towards the camera.

Leia LeBeau:
My poor Donnie should be in this spot, and would be if not for an untimely injury. I was honored to take his place in the qualifying match, and after what had happened in the Cloud Gate Tournament, and the way my other rightful shot was stolen from me, I simply couldn’t say no. It’s what the fans wanted, it’s what the industry needed. And if my man couldn’t be cleared to compete, then I am proud to stand in his stead.

“I love you, Donnie,” she mouthed, blowing another kiss to the camera lens, before she continued on with her speech.

Leia LeBeau:
And by some miracle, and my massaging hands backstage, my man was able to come out and support me in the final moments of my contest. And his support fired me up to take the well deserved victory and earn my shot at a prize that The Show surely deserves. The MWE Intercontinental Championship.

She stroked her thigh, the one covered by the IC title logo on her skin tight ring gear. She almost purred as she did this, her eyelashes fluttering at the camera. She then halted, biting lightly upon her lower lip, resting her cane across her shoulders.

Leia LeBeau:
Now, Matt Stone. The current Intercontinental Champion. His focus, his being, his everything has been focused on one thing and one thing alone…Absolute Power Wrestling.

She then covered her mouth in shock, acting like she had committed an incredible sin, awaiting punishment for her heinous crime. But nothing happened, and she let out a giggle.

Leia LeBeau:
Oh dear, was a door that was forbidden opened and a company referenced that is not this one. Oh dear. That should not be, should it? A champion of a company putting all his focus and all his senseless promotion on a company he is not a champion for? Sugar, that’s like Angelina ignoring The Eternals and focusing on a school play. You should really be ashamed. This is one of, if not the biggest broadcast in MWE history. Eleven championships on the line, the 100th show on the Green Brand, the biggest and brightest in Millennium. And there is me, shining brighter than ever before. And you, searching for tinsel elsewhere. But that may be the best bet for you, because when the bell rings for the last time, and the fans have the biggest smiles on their face, The Show will be standing tall, reaching a level never seen before.

Spinning her cane rapidly, she struck a pose, tipping her hat to the camera as she gave another wink to the lens.

Leia LeBeau:
Cause what would be hotter for MWE than The Show glittering with gold once more? Let me tell you… absolutely nothing. I just beat the former champ, now for the actual champ. It’s Showtime, baby, and the 100th anniversary is where I will shine brightest. And it’s going to be absolutely Savage.

MWE Intercontinental Championship Match

Double duty for Stone who entered this match ten pounds lighter after losing the Lockdown Championship to Bree Smith in the opening match of Centum. On top of that, fighting for sixty minutes would be a huge handicap for him on his second defense of the night, more so against a dangerous opponent such as Leia LeBeau. The Show took immediate advantage of it, using her speed to wear him down even further. With his defense lowered, she could then wreak havoc with those long legs of hers, landing some Show Kicks on his chest before knocking him down with a roundhouse kick. First cover attempt made by Leia only gave her a two count. As soon as it was possible for him, Matt rolled out of the ring to regroup and refocus. After the third time he did this, Leia seemed to finally have had enough and hit him with a baseball slide that pushed Matt into the barricade. She reached him outside and laid down a storm of stomps, stopping when she felt someone pulling her arm. It was Matt’s manager, Nicole Rossi, risking her safety to provide the distraction. Stone didn’t let this go to waste and dragged Leia down, sending her face-first into the rail. Matt followed with a German suplex on the concrete floor, leaving Leia laying there in pain while he went back in the ring, demanding that the ref would count her out. He did so, but Leia began to get up at six and easily entered before the time ran out. Matt was waiting for her and started stomping the back of her head before he put her in a front facelock and dragged her to the center of the ring. He lifted the Jet City Woman for a suplex but Leia was able to shift her weight and land back in front of him. She tried to get free with some punches to the sides but Matt ended this attempt with a knee to the face. Again he lifted her, opting for a brainbuster that planted the former Junior Heavyweight champion on her head.

A running big boot from the challenger was the turning point of the match, knocking Matt down after the Straight Shooter controlled the central part of the match and came close to the win with the Stone Cutter. The defending champion was in difficulty, feeling the effect of the war he's been through against Bree. Leia insisted, relying on her lethal kicks to finish off the champion. The determination and fire shown by LeBeau seemed like those of her days as Junior Heavyweight champion, those that got the fans to love her. Although she wasn’t against taking shortcuts and bend the rules a little like when she choked Matt in the corner with her handstand foot choke or when she cheekily tried to use the ropes for extra leverage during a pinning predicament. In that case, Nicole pointed out the irregularity to the referee who interrupted the count and warned Leia. The Sin City Girl turned to Rossi and told her to “shut up, bish”. Doing so left her exposed to Stone’s attacks, a few strikes to the kidneys followed by a dragon suplex. The Canadian produced his maximum effort to bring home the victory but The Show survived his elevated ace crusher by resting her foot on the ropes. Being A Douche (that’s how he calls his act of stealing the opponent’s move), Matt attempted a Jet City Jive but Leia stepped out of the way and jumped with both knees on his back, connecting a backstabber. The champion quickly rolled out of the ring and told Nicole he had had enough. That’s right, Matt Stone left the ring and never came back, accepting a count out loss to keep hold of his title. And Leia, obviously, was very pissed.

WINNER: Leia LeBeau (MATT STONE STILL MWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION)
BY: Count Out, 16:33

We cut backstage to a dark room. Soon, a small light turns on and we see Julian Savell in black and white, sitting in front of a mirror, a deranged look on his face.

Julian Savell:
Tonight is the end. Tonight is the night I end Seth Iser.

Julian moves to grab something and soon enough, we see him holding up Seth Iser’s old mask that he had sent Julian a few weeks ago.

Julian Savell:
You sent this to me to send some kind of message but here’s the thing? I’m the one who sent the message. I’m the one who not only beat the shit out of you but I shoved that liquor down your throat and OH MY GOD!

Julian yells out.

Julian Savell:
It felt… Well, it felt better than an orgasm. Yeah, Seth boy, I get off that much on making you suffer. Shit, I made you pack your bags and hide out in Japan for how long? How fucking long did it take you to show your fucking ugly face again? Huh? One? Two months?

He laughs and shakes his head.

Julian Savell:
Fucking pathetic. Just like this MASK!

Julian snaps the mask in half when he slams it into the mirror that he’s looking into and the mirror cracks. Julian cackles as he looks into the cracked mirror, looking at his now broken reflection.

Julian Savell:
Is that what it’s like for you to look into the mirror, Seth? Do you see a broken man every time you look into it? Do you see an irredeemable piece of shit? What the fuck do you see, huh? I want to know. While I might not know the complete answer to that, I know what you’ll see when I’m done with you tonight and put you through the Cage of Atonement.

Julian cackles again as he leans closer to the broken mirror.

Julian Savell:
You’ll see nothing. You will be NOTHING when I am through with you. You’ll be a lost soul and a forgotten wrestler. Your era ends here. Your life ends here. And me? Well…

He laughs again.

Julian Savell:
I’m just getting fucking started!

The screen cuts away.

Cage Of Atonement Match

Seth Iser VS Julian Savell

Peyton Holland: This match comes from the mind of Seth Iser, a different spin on an old classic.

Ambra Monroe: Rebekkah is pacing at ringside but there isn’t anything she can really do in this one. No door to enter and a plethora of barbed wire on top!

Peyton Holland: Two of the most devious players in the game in the confines of this monstrosity.

The cage has lowered on the two competitors in our only sanctioned grudge match of the evening with the barbed wire on the top of the cage. Julian tries to start this as he’s often started most of his matches, verbal trash talk but for once Iser isn’t talking. Instead he shocks Julian with a left across the jaw that sends him reeling toward the corner before Iser is alternating rights and chops before Julian slouches down and then stomps as big of a mudhole as he possibly can! He only stops because he then tries to throw Julian into the steel mesh but Julian blocks that with both hands before elbowing Iser in the stomach and throwing a few punches of his own. That’s cut off with another straight left from Seth and a big right hand punch follow through that floors Julian and the veteran follows just by rubbing the sole of his boot across the forehead of Savell to provoke him to get to his feet. This time, Iser tries to fling Julian into the cage but this time Julian jumps and uses the ropes and the cage as a balance before springboarding off with a high knee across the nose to drop the former World Champion! Iser ends up scrambling to his feet before a second knee(running variety) to the back sends Seth toward the cage but like Julian earlier, he catches the wall with his hands. Savell this time tries to bounce Iser’s head into the cage the old fashioned way but again, Iser’s a little too strong for the moment and then responds with a short arm clothesline. Then a leg drop across the throat but no cover, just a boot across the throat choking the man. Rebekkah is shouting some encouragement but all that shouting gets Julian is another stomp toward the head and neck area.

Peyton Holland: That isn’t the normal MO for Seth Iser. He’d normally be content to try to find a way to win as fast as possible…

Ambra Monroe: Julian has him that angry and wounded him that bad.

Iser ends up throwing a couple of stomps to drag him up and continue the brawl, a grind of his knee brace across the face of Julian follows but Julian drops to his knees and just uppercuts Seth right between the legs in as brutal of a low blow as you’d ever see. Julian then follows by finally being able to slam Iser’s face into the cage and we have blood in the water. Julian follows with rapid fire crossface blows to the head to try to further the laceration! Even a couple of boots to the skull follow in this war! Iser throws two big body blows to rock Julian in this fight but Julian rakes the eyes before slowing the bigger man down with a swinging neckbreaker, a rare wrestling move in this war! Still no covers in the match though as Julian again focuses on widening the wound across the skull of Iser digging his fingernails into the open spot once more and Iser is gritting his teeth in obvious pain! A back elbow from Iser earns him a reprieve from all of this but as he’s starting to get up, Julian throws a kick and Iser instinctively catches it. Enziguri follows and Iser flops face first on the mat leaving a bloody stain on the canvas.

Ambra Monroe: Julian Savell has turned this entire match around by weathering the storm!

Peyton Holland: And Julian is all over the veteran.

Julian drops a knee to the back of the head of Iser as a follow up in this brawl and he marches himself up to the corner looking for a Savell kick(superkick to kneeling opponent) with a parting shot that he’ll kick him back to the bar! Iser ducks the blow and returns the favor with a huge uppercut low blow that actually lifts Julian off his feet for a moment before it’s his turn to drop down onto the canvas! Rebekkah looks on with the first hint of concern after that blow because Iser is reaching over toward the ropes and using them to pull himself up and he ends up scooping Julian onto his shoulder and lawn darts him face first into the steel! This time it’s Julian Savell who is busted open and Iser knows it!

Peyton Holland: Devious play by both men and now both are donning the crimson mask!

Ambra Monroe: Not a word from Iser either, opposite demeanor from their first match. Even as he’s heading to the corner himself.

This is a prelude to him going to the corner to drop a knee across the head of the foe and that’s what we get but it’s the braced knee to the open wound of Julian Savell! Julian rolls over onto his stomach protecting his skull with his right hand but as he’s reaching out to the ropes with his left to help brace himself up, Iser has gone to the middle rope and comes off with a rare knee drop right to the left arm and Julian goes down like a shot favoring the arm! Soon as he does that, the mounted punches follow now that the head is open. He even bites at the open wound and Rebekkah’s pacing at ringside before Iser even spits blood in her direction not forgiving her transgression either. Seth ends up dragging Julian up, shoulder thrusting into the left shoulder before just flinging him into the cage and as soon as Julian rebounds back, release german by Iser. No pose, just a sneer and then a pointed knee drop to the left shoulder. At last, Iser twirls the arm, it’s a call for the DDT but Julian bullrushes the corner as he did last time and shoulder thrusts Iser in the mid section repeatedly out of desperation before he breaks the grip! Instinctively he then scales up the cage before noticing the barbed wire there…and Iser throws a hard right to the midsection before scaling up to get him but Julian desperately kicks Iser’s left knee and that crotches the bigger man. Julian’s slamming Seth’s head into the cage with his good arm twice before getting off from there. He even scores a dropkick to continue sandwiching Iser into said cage…and even sandwiching Iser’s skull into the cage! For the first time all match there’s a cover by Savell but that’s a two count. Julian shakes his left arm with a grimace then kicks Iser back toward the cage, grinding his face across the mesh before setting up to try to Gold God Kick(Punt) Iser into the steel mesh after again shaking that left arm.

Peyton Holland: He’s going to concuss this man with that!

Ambra Monroe: That left arm might be gone, it’s his only real way to win!

He runs in but Iser catches the foot and spins him around before catching him into a half nelson suplex into the steel cage slamming his shoulder and back of the head into the cage wall! That’s often a prelude to one of his finishers but not this time. He’s throwing grounded knees to the face of his opponent until you hear a crack and as soon as the crack is heard, that’s when Iser traps the arm and transitions into his Dream Eater(Rings of Saturn)!Julian is shaking his head no repeatedly as Iser is just cranking onto the hold! Julian’s fading fast though from the blood loss and the previous work done on the shoulder as he’s cranking it more! Rebekkah is pacing even more as the hold is locked in. Rather then submit, he goes out! As that happens, Rebekkah shows her arm and shoves the towel into the one hole of the cage the camera uses! The ref calls it after that as Julian is not responding! Iser keeps the hold on a little longer before he sees the cage raise up and finally relinquishes his hold, not wanting to be blindsided by an obviously distraught and angry Rebekkah.

WINNER: Seth Iser
BY: Submission (Dream Eater), 20:06

The scene opens inside of a boardroom in an unknown location. Sitting at the head of the table is BROOKFORD. The fans cheer upon seeing him. The MWE World Championship is propped up for the world to see.

BROOKFORD:
Here. We. Go.

The champion takes a deep breath.

BROOKFORD:
Two years feels like a lifetime ago, does it? Reaves, the day you lost the MWE World Championship I wasn’t in the company. I was in Underground in the middle of a one year unbeaten streak. Not that I need to tell you that, you were there too on your path to become North American Champion, eventually. I was the Dynasty Champion. Again, you already know that. During these two years we’ve been in each others professional lives, the question always lingered in my head, what if me and you fought one-on-one? What if we were in a position to give the fans a showdown for the ages? I no longer need to wonder what if. Tonight, it happens. You. Me. For the MWE World Championship.

The fans cheer with excitement. BROOKFORD pats the MWE World Title.

BROOKFORD:
I couldn’t think of a better way to officially kick off my reign. A certain someone made a big deal about potentially breaking your record. He was obsessed with it. Made it seem like an inevitability. Funny how life works. Management didn’t think enough of him to find him something to do on the 100th episode of this program. Which goes to show you, it doesn’t matter how good you are. Or how important you believe your existence to be, we will always be cogs in the all mighty machine that is professional wrestling. No one person is that important. Comical how certain people in this sport allow their egos to become so huge they lose sight of the bigger picture, sometimes it isn’t your time. Something you know all too well don’tcha. You had designs of getting this back. Weren’t able to do it. Then you spent a couple months at home. Like the legend you are, you came back. Bet you want to recapture the magic of two years ago, dont’?

BROOKFORD smirks.

BROOKFORD:
Just like the person who preceded me as champion is beginning to see its not his time anymore; it’s not yours either. You had a title reign that many of us world envy. Your one hundred and seventy day reign has stood for two years. Impressive. You will always be recognized as one if not the greatest MWE World Champion in history. Reaves. I had been busting my ass my entire career to become World Champion. Solved many problems along the way. Overcame many setbacks. Defined myself as one of the best big men in the game. Made my goal to become champion inevitable by going through three death matches in one night and going through three of the top stars MWE and the world of professional wrestling has to offer. Your comeback has been inspirational. No question. The fans are happy to have you back. Unfortunately for you, Melissa, beating you will be the first pillar of a reign I have no plans of ending anytime soon. Nothing personal. This is business.

BROOFORD nods. He stands up. He grabs his championship and leaves as the scene fades to black.

A pre-recorded segment airs, opening on a view of the Chicago skyline. Then tonight’s MWE Championship challenger, Melissa Reeves, is shown leaning against a wall, with the Chicago River behind her.

Melissa Reeves:
Brookford. Melissa Reeves. The MWE Title. Let’s call it what it is, this is my biggest match in Millennium since May 16th, when I fought for this very same title. On that night I was unsuccessful. Indeed, that match on that night was the moment when I knew for sure that I needed a break. Hic Sunt Leones was my last event for months.

She waves a finger.

Melissa Reeves:
But that was then, we’re here now. Those months away weren’t squandered. No, I used those months to rehab, to repair and recharge. I arrive back here ready to give retaking the MWE another red hot go and I arrive with fire in my belly.

A smirk grows across her lips.

Melissa Reeves:
I know a lot of people here like to talk but I’ll keep this simple - I know you prefer things that way, Brookford. I agree with you, our fight is a money match. Fighting you is a test, too. A test for me, to see where I measure vs the current best in this company. If I vanquish you, then I return to the top of the pile. You know that’s the goal. See, I like that about you, Brookford. You’re a simple guy and some would count that against you, but not me.

She shrugs.

Melissa Reeves:
You asked if I’d accept the challenge. 2/3 falls, big guy? Sure, I’ll step up. We’ll tear the god damn house down and when the dust settles, we’ll know who deserves to be the top star in MWE.

Reeves walks toward the camera and pauses, briefly.

Melissa Reeves:
See you out there, Brooky.

MWE World Championship Match

Peyton Holland: “What a night this has been! The greatest episode in the history of the Millennium brand, nine titles on the line. We crowned new champions, we saw some retain.. And now, the greatest prize in the company is on the line.”

Ambra Monroe: “It seemed like Duke Andrews would have been challenging BROOKFORD for the title the Problem Solver took from him at Below Zero, but the champion challenged Melissa Reeves instead. And she obviously stepped up to the plate.”

Peyton Holland: “Nobody in their right mind would turn down an opportunity like this. And Melissa Reeves is a great choice, not only she’s a former Cloud Gate champion, World champion and Battle Of The Briefcase winner, but we can say she’s one of MWE’s OGs… I believe only Tiff and Megan Monroe have been in the company for longer than her.”

Ambra Monroe: “You’re probably correct. Anyway, everything is ready, the main event of Millennium Centum is here!”

As the opening bell sounded BROOKFORD charged across the ring and hit Reeves with a series of right hands, backing her into her corner. The Australian tried to cover up and protect herself from the heavy blows, while the referee checked that BROOKFORD wouldn’t use closed fists. The Problem Solver grabbed Mel by the wrist and whipped him across the ring to the opposing corner. He quickly followed behind and crushed Mel in the corner with a running corner clothesline. He stepped back and allowed for Reeves to stagger out of the corner before flipping her overhead with a belly to belly suplex. The challenger stood up with the help of the ropes and turned around, seeing BROOKFORD charging at him once again. Acting quickly, the Australian dropped down and lowered the top rope, causing the champ to fall out of the ring. Despite the hard landing, the Problem Solver stood up right away and quickly entered the ring, or at least he tried to. A baseball slide from Mel knocked him back into the security railing. The Australian stepped onto the ring apron and watched over her shoulder, watching as BROOKFORD pulled himself off of the security railing. It’s not often that you see the Reaver flying, over the course of her career she switched to a less reckless style. But she obviously still remembered how to do it, leaping up onto the middle rope and springboarding backwards, hitting an Asai Moonsault on the World champion. Wasting no time, she grabbed him by the back of the head and pulled him back to the ring. After reaching him inside, she kicked him in the stomach and connected a flowing DDT.

Ambra Monroe: “We all had high expectations for this match, and so far they definitely lived up to them.”

Mel continued her offense with a volley of kicks, pushing the champ back against the ropes. She went for an irish whip that was clearly countered by the much bigger opponent who then waited for her to return to knock her down with a shoulder tackle. BROOK reached down and dragged Melissa to her feet, connecting a stalling suplex that earned him another near fall. He didn’t stop there and whipped the challenger in the corner, going for a second running clothesline. This time the Australian countered him with a back elbow to the face and rocked him with an enziguri. BROOKFORD stumbled over the top rope but landed on the apron. As soon as he got up, Mel tried to knock him down with a right hand but the champ blocked her and punched her through the ropes and into the mid-section. A quick look behind him and the Problem Solver lifted the challenger and let himself fall behind, connecting a spectacular and dangerous suplex to the outside. Both were down and the referee began to count them out. The champion was the first to recover and immediately slid inside the ring to break up the count.

Peyton Holland: “BROOKFORD is not done yet.. This doesn’t bode well for Mel.”

Ambra Monroe: “You can respect your opponent as much as you want, but between the bells, if you have an opportunity to do some damage, you’ll take it.”

He tossed Mel into the steel ring steps, dislodging them in the process. BROOKFORD ripped the top half of the steps off and shoved it aside, lifting Reeves back up again, this time using a gut-wrench, and powerbombed her onto the flat portion of the exposed steel. The Reaver groaned in pain and arched her back as she rolled on the floor. The New York native pushed her back in the ring and immediately covered her, only getting a near fall. If that wasn’t a testament of Mel’s resilience and toughness, the way she managed to turn the tides after taking all that punishment proved once again why she’s one of the best in the business today. Alternating stiff kicks with some of the many DDTs in her arsenal, she obtained a couple of near falls and put herself in a position of advantage. With BROOKFORD down in fact, she could use her mat wrestling ability to wear down the big man. Contrary to what people would think, she didn’t go for the legs. Even though the Iron Lock gave her so many wins in the past, she thought that BROOKFORD could have that one scouted. Instead, she tried to cut the flux of oxygen, putting him in various chokeholds.

Ambra Monroe: “This could be a wise strategy from the challenger.”

Peyton Holland: “It’s not something BROOKFORD expected, obviously. And while he definitely knows a thing or two about submissions, it's one of the departments Melissa has an edge on him.”

She had him in a triangle choke for quite some time now, and the referee went to check if the champion was still in the match. He raised his hand once but it fell down, and the same happened on the second attempt. The fans were buzzing, could this already be the end of his reign? Was he out? Will he regret challenging the Reaver when she’ll be the one with her arm raised? Or does he still have something left in his tank? For the third time the referee raised his arm and let it fall, but this time the champion blocked it, showing signs of life. He slowly started fighting back, getting up to his feet inch by inch. A superhuman effort, but he eventually managed to get up while still having the challenger wrapped around his neck. A huge buckle bomb set him free, Mel’s head snapping back and hitting the top turnbuckle, leaving her dazed. BROOKFORD was on one knee, trying to catch his breath. Mel was sitting in the corner seeing stars, her eyes wide staring into nothing. Another double count started, the fans starting to boo as they didn’t want a fantastic match ending this way. Luckily, the two competitors made it up to their feet before the ten, beginning what appeared to be the last exchange of the match. Both were exhausted, but Mel seemed to have a bit more energy left and incredibly got the best in that final brawl. The Magnitude Nine though missed the target and BROOKFORD made her pay for it with a devastating full nelson slam. Wasting no time, he dragged Reeves up and connected the Problem.. Solved (dragon screw neck whip), successfully defending his title.

WINNER: BROOKFORD (STILL MWE WORLD CHAMPION)
BY: Pinfall (Problem… Solved), 24:48

Lights Out Match
Hardcore Tornado Tag Team Gauntlet

Bad Boyz VS A.P.E. VS Nightfall Rising VS Team Trillie VS K2O VS Tiff & Clyde Eldon Jr. and more!

Surprise! The show was technically over, but on its greatest night, the green brand gifted the fans with an unexpected tag match, one that promises to be a banger that will keep the fans glued to their seats for quite some time. A gauntlet for tag teams, to be fought under tornado rules and where everything goes. And the surprises didn’t end there. After witnessing the debut of the new backstage interviewer, the fans happily welcomed back Rumchata Ayano in the role of ring announcer. Nightfall Rising were the first team to enter, an unlucky draw for the boys that will definitely hinder their possibilities to win the whole thing. And as if that wasn’t enough of an obstacle, they got blindsided on their way to the ring by the first surprise entrant team. The Triumvirate wrote another page on the rivalry between them and Nightfall and between Megan Monroe and Donovan Keane. And they wrote it in blood as Megan’s vicious chair shot to the back of Donnie’s head cracked the young man’s skull open. Pierce was slightly less brutal with Jay, even though that spike DDT on the steel ramp still looked pretty nasty. Donovan was still laying down, bleeding from his head while the match officially started, basically as a handicap match. Gallagher was in great difficulty against the former Riot champion and the former Intercontinental champion. He took a lot of punishment, but always managed to save himself kicking out before the three. An unexpected break came when, all of a sudden, a baseball launched with absolute precision and force hit him in the jewels, dropping him on his knees. Donovan was back to his feet and received the object from a fan, probably the same that bought the bat in the Chicago Way championship match. Megan glanced at her boyfriend in agony then turned to Donnie, telling him that he should have stayed down. Jay picked her up over his shoulders and his partner jumped on the top rope and took her down with a clothesline, completing a variation of the doomsday device. The two young men both dropped on top of Monroe, making a double cover to keep her down for the three. But Pierce recovered just in time to make the save. Nightfall Rising put up a good fight but the damage done by that shot to Donnie and the consequent two on one on Jay eventually took their toll. Pierce tossed Kean out of the ring after hitting him with the sock of dimes while Megan hit the Beautiful Disaster on Jay, dropping him onto the chair and scoring the three.

Team Trillie received a standing ovation as they rushed to the ring. Their freshness and speed immediately proved to be an obstacle for the Triumvirate. If Millie didn’t seem too comfortable with a weapon in her hands, Trinity showed a certain aptitude with a kendo stick in her hand, twirling and swinging it to hit Megan in an effective and spectacular way. Pierce saved his girlfriend with a big boot that leveled Thompson but he was soon dropped on his head with a reverse DDT by Millie. Working like a perfectly oiled machine, Smith and Thompson impressed with their innovative style, keeping a quick pace and delighting the fans with aerial assaults. That suddenly changed when Megan swatted Millie’s crossbody attempt with a chair shot, knocking her down. Since it worked so well for them before, Manning did to Trinity the same thing he did to Donnie, clubbing her with his weapon of choice and throwing her out of the ring. But the former student didn’t stay down, getting to her feet quickly and pulling out a chair from under the ring, She pushed half of it inside the ring and when Pierce went to stop her, she pushed down on the bottom half, causing the part that was inside the ring to spring upwards and hitting her opponent. She then rescued her partner with a Nap Kick to the back of Megan’s head and set up the ladder in the middle of the ring. She whispered something to her partner and they climbed the ropes, standing back to back on top of it. Millie jumped off with a sparkle splash on Meg, Trinity performed a 450 landing on top of Pierce. The fans erupted in cheers as the referee dropped down and counted a double pinfall, awarding the win of this round to Team Trillie.

Out next came the Bad Boyz, Marcus Ali Jr and Danté Hall, formerly known as Karib Trinidad. The two had the strength advantage on Team Trillie and the lack of rules allowed them to wear brass knuckles and chains around their fists. Millie and Trinity did their best to avoid those brutal strikes but soon the fatigue from their match against the Triumvirate kicked in. Thompson received a nasty punch to the face by Marcus, cutting her above the eye. As blood dripped down her face hindering her vision, she had to witness her partner getting tossed around by the Bad Boyz and eventually powerbombed onto the ladder. Somehow Millie kicked out and that was what drove Trinity to get up once again and keep on fighting next to her friend. Throwing their hearts beyond the obstacle, she charged at the Bad Boyz and brought the fight against them. Millie took a moment to recover but then joined in, their bond and the oath they made to always have each other back was what was driving them into this apparently impossible mission to overcome the odds and eliminate the Bad Boyz. The fans were loving this, cheering loudly at them as they coordinated their attacks and eventually managed to isolate Danté. Just when it looked like they could actually do it, Dez Ali hopped the barricade and entered the ring, taking down Trinity with a chair shot to the back before braining Millie with the same object. Tiana came out of the curtain and boy she was mad! Dez cost her the Cloud Gate tournament opportunity and now he just screwed off her friends Millie and Trin as well. As soon as he saw the Russian-American, Dez slammed the chair on the canvas, daring her to come get him. She wasn’t afraid, charging to the ring thirsty for revenge. Ali rolled under the bottom rope and escaped through the fans. Tiana was climbing over the barricade to chase him but suddenly stopped as she heard the referee starting to count. It was too late to save Trinity, and that slight hesitation caused her to lose sight on Dez. Cursing, she slammed her fist on the rail, heading back to the ring to help her battered friends as they made their way backstage.

The Bad Boyz may have gotten away with it now, but they were in for another war now. A.P.E. marched to the ring, welcomed by an overall positive reaction that, perhaps, not even Duke and Alan expected. Danté and Marcus didn’t shy away from the fight, wanting nothing more than to settle the score with the former champions. As they clashed, it was as brutal as you can imagine. The lack of rules allowed for closed fists, thumbs to the eyes and low blows. The four of them were hell bent on destroying each other, and it wasn’t long before weapons came into play. A table was set up by Alan while Duke picked up Marcus and put him through it with a powerbomb. Remember the ladder Team Trillie used to win their match against the Triumvirate? Duke found himself lying on its steps after a brutal spinebuster by Hall. The fight continued for several minutes, and it was absolute carnage. Duke was dealing with Ali on the outside while inside the ring Danté was carving a cross on Alan’s forehead with a screwdriver. The preacher started bleeding heavily but he managed to drive his elbow in Hall’s mid-section a couple of times to break free. Duke dropped Marcus down with the Andrews Effect on the floor and then pushed the top part of the steel steps in the ring for Alan to drop Danté on to with the Envious Demise. APE advanced to the next turn, eliminating the Bad Boyz.

Who entered next? Well, still the Bad Boyz, represented by Omari and Khalil this time. They had a clear advantage as APE had already been brought to their limit by the previous incarnation of the BB, but they took too much time gloating and allowed the former Tag Champions to turn the tables. All of a sudden the former World Champion knocked Johnson out with the Killshot and made the cover. An incredulous silence fell in the Arena as Omari failed to kick out in time. Duke raised both arms in celebration, stating that they were going to win this and prove why they’re the better team. The celebration was cut short as the Bad Boyz attacked them in full force. Not only their current opponents, (with Omari looking strangely okay after taking the fall, almost as if he intentionally stayed down to set up this trap), but Danté, Marcus and Dez as well. Heavily outnumbered, APE tried to fight them off but soon the Bad Boyz got the best of them, laying down kicks and punches to punish them. Chains and batons came into play as well, revenge was a dish best served cold for the Bad Boyz and they were savoring every moment of it. Finally the beatdown ended, APE was left writhing in pain, barely conscious. And that wasn’t even the worst part.

Guess who entered next? Nobody’s favorite team, K2O. Karen and Olly couldn’t believe the gift the Bad Boyz just bestowed them, serving the team they had beefed on for weeks on a silver platter. Dez Ali mouthed a “You’re welcome” to his former rival Olly who thought it well to thank him with a middle finger. Ali turned around and charged at Olly who easily picked him up and over his shoulder and kneed his face in with his patented Born To Lose. Omari wanted to avenge him but Danté and Marcus stopped him, saying that they were done here and should go back looking for the mysterious “The Light”. K2O entered the ring and mocked APE, laughing at them as they were clearly unable to defend themselves. Olly suggested that they should draw straws to determine who should get to pin Duke. Karen accepted though she didn’t seem too sure about how they could do it, though her partner, of course, had a plan. He grabbed a handful of Alan’s hair and tore out a lock. He then let most of them fall on the ring, holding two in his fist. Duke started crawling to the ropes to pick himself up but he stomped his head, frustrating the attempt. Lady Luck smiled upon Karen who picked the longest hair. Olly disposed of Envy by kicking him out of the ring and set Duke up on his knees for her partner to slap him and hit him with her patented Can I Speak To Your Manager? She made the cover but, at that point, it was purely academic.

Wait, are you kidding me? What the hell is Matt Stone doing here? Apparently, two matches weren’t enough for the Intercontinental champion and he, as one half of PCP entered the Gauntlet with Ronnie Sawyer. Olly reminded Karen how there was only one team left after PCP, her son and Tiff. Of course he was already looking past the Canadian duo, after all they already beat them even though under controversial circumstances. Of course Matt and Veronica were determined to avenge that loss, and they came prepared, each one of them with a chair in their hands. Olly and Karen didn’t have time to get weapons of their own as PCP ran down the ramp and reached the ring in short time. Sawyer unleashed all her fury on Karen, dismembering her with a flurry of chair shots while Matt took on Olly. His blows were not as hard and precise as those of her partners, the two matches he had early that night took a toll on him. But he still managed to smash the chair on Olly’s head, though it wasn’t enough to keep him down. Matt picked him up again but got punched in his nether regions for his trouble. Olly could now help Karen who was struggling against Veronica. He blasted the Canadian with the Random Act Of Violence (running knee to the back of the head). He helped Karen up and they double teamed the opponent with a brutal con-chair-to. Sawyer was down but Matt recovered in time to save her. A match like this was without a doubt favoring the Tag Team Of The Year, who proved in the past to be lethal when there are no rules, or they manage to get around them. In fairness, PCP put up a great fight but eventually they were overwhelmed by the opponents. Who knows, perhaps if Matt wasn’t already exhausted after two matches, this could have been a different ending. But tonight, K2O prevailed with Olly’s Leap Of Faith on Stone.

The fans were waiting for the entrance of Tiff and Clyde, already chanting their name. Olly and Karen looked eager to fight them as well, the last obstacle on their way to a win that would cement their status as one of (they would say THE) best tag teams in MWE. “Hood Rat Shit” by Megan Thee Stallion blasted out of the speakers and the confusion was visible on the faces of the fans and K2O alike. That was the music of Alyiah and Annica Greene, collectively known as Bad & Boujee, holders of the Valiant tag team titles Olly and Karen were chasing before the company went on a hiatus. The twins teased that they would come to MWE, was this their official debut? Apparently not, it was a ruse, a way to get under the former champions’ skin. The song in fact had been playing for over a minute now but nobody came out. Olly clapped his hands, complimenting Clyde and Tiffany for the clever ploy, inviting them to come out now. Hold on a minute, THEY’RE ACTUALLY HERE! The twins are indeed inside the Enterprise Arena but they chose an alternative way to make their entrance, appearing behind the opponent’s shoulders and dropping them on their heads with a double reverse hurricanrana. All hell broke loose as K2O and Bad & Boujee were in the same ring, an explosive rivalry that crossed the country from LA to Chicago. Hair was pulled, eyes raked and unrepeatable insults were yelled. The first taste the MWE fans had of this feud was definitely going to leave them wanting for more. All the ingredients were there for an intense battle, with none of the four competitors holding anything back. Karen was laid on a table and crashed through it with Aliyah’s Barbie Tingz while Annica spiked Olly with the Hollaback Girl, but the TTOTY survived once again. Karen seemed out but Olly kept on fighting even outnumbered. And somehow he managed to spear Annica through a table set up in the corner. That left him exposed to her sister’s sneaky roll-up for the three. What an impact made by the Greenes!

Unless there were any more last minute surprises, this was the last act of an incredible night of wrestling. The newest team on the company, though a well established one, against a pairing of recent formations who’s finding some success and a perhaps unexpected love from the fans. Nobody but them can say if Tiff and Clyde are officially a tag team, but surely a win tonight could open interesting perspectives for the duo. Obviously the twins had different plans, they already achieved what they came here for, defeating their rivals. But now they had an opportunity to send a message to the rest of the division, showing all of them what they were capable of. Unlike the previous match, there was a certain level of respect from these teams and it showed by those exchanges. As stiff as they come, but nothing over the top. And most importantly, no forbidden strikes. Yeah, it’s no dq so what’s really forbidden? But you get the idea, nobody ever went for the eyes, nobody kicked Clyde between the legs (something that Olly suffered a couple of times)... It was an actual wrestling match, and even the use of weapons was limited to a bare minimum. The twins connected their finishing maneuver It’s Bad, It’s Boujee (catapult by Alyiah into a diving hurricanrana by Annica) on Clyde but Tiff made the save at the very last moment. Clyde almost gave his team the win with his For You Dad spear on Annica who, somehow, kicked out in time. But in the end the former Cloud Gate champion, bleeding after an Hollaback Girl (front flip piledriver) on a chair, took the matters in her hands. Whatever her problem had been for the past months, it now seemed to be officially over. The Five Foot Death Machine was back, and now she could count on some slick boxing moves in her arsenal, a result of her training with Jackie Fowler. She used them to knock down Aliyah before turning her attention on her sister, dodging the kick to the head and sending her on her back with the Peacemaker. Clyde held the chair in front of Annica’s face and invited Tiffany to Death Kick it, which she did. Greene went down and CEJ made sure her sister couldn’t save her this time with another spear.

WINNER: Tiff & Clyde Eldon Jr.
BY: Pinfall (Death Kick), 25:08

Post by gvb on Feb 15, 2022 18:23:53 GMT -6

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