Post by gvb on Mar 28, 2022 16:03:53 GMT -6
MWE Presents: Dark Web IV (night 1)
Live from Madison Square Garden in New York City, NY
Saturday, March 26th, 2022
The Academy Pre-Show Match
Grudge Match
Grudge Match
Rainer Nordhagen VS Gabriel Landry
WINNER: Gabriel Landry BY: Pinfall (Phoenix Splash), 12:08 |
Cut inside the locker of Trinity Thompson, where we found the Academy graduate dressed in her ring gear, ready for her match against Nine van der Hoek. A knock at the door interrupted the pre-match peacefulness, though it didn’t seem to be unexpected at all. A big smile, in fact, appeared on Trinity’s face as she told her guest to come in.
As the door opened, Tiana appeared on the threshold. She didn’t share the same state of mind as her friend, looking way more concerned than Thompson appeared to be.
Trinity Thompson:
Hey girl!
Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
Hey, Trin…
Tiana stepped inside the locker room, clearly distressed by what was about to occur. She brushed a strand of hair away from her face and turned to look at her friend, shaking her head.
Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
You’re about to go up against Nine, the crazy cult lady, emphasis on cult… And you’re as cheery as ever.
Trinity Thompson:
Yeah well… I have a plan.
She glanced at the door Tiana came in from. Leaning against the wall was a baseball bat, the one she used in one of her cosplays as Harley Quinn. Trin walked in that direction and picked up the weapon twirling it in her hand.
Trinity Thompson:
I know she’s dangerous, but hardcore rules? I think that might play to my advantage. And if her friend, that Erin chick comes for me?
The young girl swung her bat, mimicking what she was planning to do to EMP.
Trinity Thompson:
I’ll hit her so hard that I’ll bring her back to her senses and she quits that Cult Of Losers.
Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
You’re poking the bear, Trin. You embarrassed her, you think swinging a bat around is gonna even up the numbers for you? They’re going to come for you, and they’re going to come hard…
Tiana stepped toward Trin and took hold of the bat, setting it aside.
Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
We both know what happens when you poke a bear that doesn’t care about whether or not you walk out of the ring.
Trinity Thompson:
Yeah we do. We’ve been there already. That’s why I asked you to come here,
Tiana looked confused, raising an eyebrow at her friend.
Trinity Thompson:
You need to promise me that, no matter what you see out there tonight, you won’t…
Before she could finish, Tiana interrupted her.
Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
No. I’m not going to sit back here and watch if they try something, are you out of your mind?
The Russian-American was heated, her face turning red.
Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
How could you even begin to ask me to do that, Trin?
Trinity Thompson:
Because it’s the right thing to do. Because we’ve seen what happened last time with Echo and I don’t want that to happen again. Because you have a title match tomorrow night, and why the hell would you try to get injured when you’re so close to the finish line?
Trinity tried to keep a calm tone, hoping she could cool off her friend too.
Trinity Thompson:
Nobody needs to get hurt tonight. Not because of me.
Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
Yeah, Trin, they don’t see it that way. You need to get hurt in Nine’s eyes.
Ti was near shaking, and with how tightly her fist was clenched, it’s a surprise she hadn’t dug her nails into her palm.
Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
And I’ll hurt them worse, you know I will. Don’t ask me to not.
Trinity Thompson:
Listen, Ti…
The redhead took a deep breath, looking straight in Tiana’s eyes. There was a long moment of silence before she spoke again.
Trinity Thompson:
I… I love you and I can’t have you getting injured because of me, not again. It was hard enough the first time, I can’t go through that again. We can’t keep doing this…
The Russian-American seemed shocked, stammering something inaudible.
Trinity Thompson:
This doesn’t have to spiral out of control. I can’t have you on my conscience, or Millie, or Tiff… I need you to trust me, and I need you to keep the people I care about safe, starting with you. This is between me and Nine, nobody else needs to get dragged in.
Tiana stood quiet, though more relaxed. She opened her mouth to respond, but nothing came out besides a sigh. She took a step toward her friend, followed by another, and another, until they were separated by only a few inches.
Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
I’ll stay out of your way for tonight, Trin…
She reached out and hugged Trinity tightly.
Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
But only because I love you, too… Um..
Reassured by that promise, and relieved to hear those three words from Tiana, Trin wrapped her arms around the former Gold Star, reciprocating the hug.
Trinity Thompson:
I… Thank you.
She didn’t say anything else, the two of them just standing there for a few moments in silence.
Trinity Thompson:
We.. We can get dinner after the show and… Elaborate all this. I gotta go now tho, wish me luck!
Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
Yeah…um…
Ti quickly gave Trinity a peck on the cheeks and a smile.
Tiana Petrova-Hammond:
Good luck.
Hardcore Match
Trinity Thompson VS Nine van der Hoek
WINNER: // BY: //, 0:00 |
As Night One of Dark Web IV continues, a camera finds Lowri Moss standing somewhere backstage, and the sight of the popular young woman from South Wales immediately draws a loud cheer from the audience. Dressed in her ring attire and a New York City Eats Its Young t-shirt, from the series How to Make It in America, a smiling Lowri begins by giving her usual greeting.
Lowri Moss:
What’s occurring, New York?
That elicits the customary cheap pop from the MSG crowd.
Lowri Moss:
Coming up shortly, I’m going to be facing Karen Eldon–
The fans now boo, which causes Lowri to chuckle.
Lowri Moss:
It sounds like Karen is just as popular here in New York as she is everywhere else. I’ll talk about that matchup in a little bit, but as I’m sure most of you are probably aware, if not all of you, originally I was actually scheduled to be in a different match tonight. I spoke last Wednesday about how the results of my recent matches in MWE haven’t been good enough, not for a wrestler of my ability, not for someone who has aspirations of being World Champion, and so when the cards for tonight and tomorrow were revealed earlier this week, I was surprised to find myself named as one of four participants in a number one contender match for the World title. Almost immediately I told Elsa McCarthy and Vincent Moretti that I didn’t think I deserved to be in the match, and that I should be taken out of it; Elsa tried to convince me otherwise, saying that the match hadn’t been booked based on the previous four weeks alone, and she urged me to take the opportunity. I couldn’t take it though, as I couldn’t shake the feeling that I didn’t deserve it, and eventually Elsa… I guess she accepted that I was too stubborn to change my mind, and so I was removed from the match.
Lowri runs a hand through her hair.
Lowri Moss:
One of the things that Elsa said when she was trying to persuade me, was that the fans want to see me competing for the World Championship. And I know that’s true, I know that they–
She pauses. Realising that she is addressing the fans, she amends her wording.
Lowri Moss:
I know that you all want to see me competing for the World title, and I do want to be competing for it, of course I do, but I don’t want to be competing for it if I haven’t earned it. If I had accepted a spot in tonight’s main event, I would’ve been a hypocrite, and that’s not the way that I want to do things, nor is it the example that I want to set, especially for the young fans who look up to me, like Amy Maynard’s daughter Mia.
The smile on Lowri’s face broadens, as she thinks of one of her biggest fans.
Lowri Moss:
Hi Mia!
She accompanies that with a wave to the camera.
Lowri Moss:
Children have this untainted view on life, where they haven't been told to think a certain way, they haven’t been affected by the world yet, and when I meet them they tell me things like “You're my hero” and “Don't give up.” Well, I don’t have any intention whatsoever of giving up on the World title, but if I’m going to get a shot at it, I’m going to get it by working to earn it, not by being gifted it. That’s what I did in FGA– twice. I earned my first shot at a world title there by outlasting twenty-nine opponents to win the annual rumble match, and after the title match then ended in… let’s say, controversial circumstances, rather than demanding that I be given a rematch, I told everyone that if I was going to get another shot, I was going to earn it. And that was exactly what I did, by winning another rumble, and the rest, as they say, is history.
She lets out a sigh of contentment.
Lowri Moss:
Elsa may have found out just how stubborn I can be when she was unable to get me to change my mind about the number one contender match, but everyone else in MWE is going to learn how stubborn I am as well, particularly when I set my sights on something. Now my sights are set on the MWE World title, and I won’t stop until I get it, but I’ll get it without compromising my values or my principles– usually that would mean not taking any shortcuts in my matches, but in this instance, it means not taking a shortcut towards the title; I’ll become champion by doing things the right way, which is what I've done for the past five and a half years, and it's what I'll do for the next five and a half years and beyond.
A brief pause follows, before Lowri continues.
Lowri Moss:
After I stated that I thought I should be taken out of the number one contender match, someone who piped up - as she so often does - was Karen Eldon, who put herself forward to take my spot in the match. Instead though, I suggested to Elsa that if she still wanted me to be in a match tonight, that Karen should be my opponent, and well, here we are now, just minutes away from me and Karen stepping into the ring with one another, with Olly banned from ringside. And for the record, I would’ve been fine with whichever of the four potential options for our match had won the poll, but more than half of the people who voted wanted Olly to be banned from ringside, and as I get set to face his tag team partner, that does mean that there shouldn’t be any repeat of what happened last September, when I fought his girlfriend.
Last summer, at When The Sun Goes Down, Olly cost Lowri her match with Faith Savell. Lowri did though at least get some payback a few weeks later, on the following episode of Millennium.
Lowri Moss:
When I joined MWE just over a year ago, I was already aware of how much Karen likes to talk, whether on the shows or on social media, although I do wonder how much of what she says she actually believes and how much of it she just says to try to rile people up. Sometimes her words come back to bite her though, and not always directly; before the match I had with Olly last year, Karen tweeted that he would destroy me, but all that did was inspire me to drop him on his head with a Welsh Destroyer. And she has been at it again today, saying that I’m not better than her, and calling me “Little Miss Lack of Confidence.”
There is a shake of the head from Lowri.
Lowri Moss:
You’ve got it all wrong, Karen. Confidence is one thing that isn’t an issue with me– I don’t have any doubts at all about myself or my ability. I know that I’m a World Champion calibre wrestler, who is more than capable of beating anyone on the MWE roster, and that definitely includes you, Karen. And I’m sure you already have all of your excuses ready for when I beat you, I expect you’ll say that my win was a fluke, or that I got lucky, and that you would beat me nine times out of ten– hey, whatever helps you deal with the loss, Karen. The only question in my mind isn’t am I going to win, it’s am I going to give you a Welsh Destroyer like I did Olly, or am I going to use something else to finish the match?
She gives a shrug of her shoulders.
Lowri Moss:
I’ve suffered some setbacks recently on my quest to get to where I want to be in MWE, but I’m not hiding from that– if anything, I’m doing the opposite. And as a wise man once said, “It ain't about how hard you hit, it's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.”
Can you guess which film she watched last night?
Lowri Moss:
I said last week that I was going to turn my form around, and that starts now, with a win over Karen Eldon. I’m going to go out to the ring and I’m going to show off my talent, my passion, and everything else that makes me the wrestler that I am, as I move forward, taking a step in the right direction, towards where I want to be here in MWE.
With a look on her face that is a mixture of confidence and determination, Lowri stares at the camera, before it cuts away.
Singles Match
Olly Is Banned From Ringside
Karen Eldon VS Lowri MossOlly Is Banned From Ringside
WINNER: Lowri Moss BY: Pinfall (Nos Da), 11:21 |
Backstage we find the former MWE World Tag Team Champions, Jessica Lasiewicz and Summer Collins, better known to the wrestling world at large as Fabulous. They are still in search of putting the Fabulous name back on the map and at Dark Web they could do just that, as both are in matches with championship implications. Both ladies are dressed to compete, both looking confident and ready to go. Summer is the first to break the ice.
Summer Collins:
New York City is my kind of city. Wealthy beyond imagination, deeply rooted in power and influence. It’s what being absolutely FABULOUS is all about. Right here in New York City and specifically in Madison Square Garden, I feel right at home. And I cannot think of a better place for Jess and I to put the Fabulous name back on the map than right here in the big apple.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
You’re right, Summer. That could happen to both of us. If you win tonight, then tomorrow night you face Faizah for the MWE Cloud Gate Championship. And if I defeat Iser and Reeves tonight, then I will have become number one contender to the MWE World Championship. We have been saying over and over again that it has been far too long since Fabulous has held championship gold but tonight is the night that we could take a giant step towards righting that wrong.
Collins chuckles softly.
Summer Collins:
But that’s what everyone seems to want these days. Everyone is jockeying for position, everyone is trying to prove themselves worthy of championship gold, everyone is trying to make their case.
She points to herself and Jessica.
Summer Collins:
Except for the two of us, that is.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
Summer didn’t actively campaign to get a potential opportunity to wrestle for the Cloud Gate Title. That was an idea that came up in a social media outburst between Joey, the social media intern, and Faizah. And I never once brought up a desire to become MWE World Champion. I just fight whoever is put in front of me. And I just so happened to beat two former champions back to back. The only championship we HAVE been actively campaigning for, the one title we HAVE made it clear we want a shot at, is the MWE World Tag Team Championship.
Summer Collins:
We don’t make the matches, we just fight whoever we are told to fight. And typically we win. So why not do both? Why not Fabulous run roughshod through this singles division, win the Cloud Gate Title, win the World Title, and then become World Tag Team Championship? Why not have it all?
Lasiewicz shakes her head.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
Let the lot of you debate and cry about who deserves what around here. Summer and I will do what we have always done…we will let our talking be done in the ring. Tonight we will go out there, kick ass, and earn our spot. And that will be absolutely FABULOUS!
Cloud Gate Championship #1 Contenders Match
Chairs Match
Winner will challenge Faizah Marshall on Night 2
Joey Leclair VS Summer CollinsChairs Match
Winner will challenge Faizah Marshall on Night 2
WINNER: Summer Collins BY: Pinfall (Roll-Up), 13:38 |
We go backstage now where we can see Nine van der Hoek leading her ‘Band of Nine’, E.M.P shadowing The Leader as her cultists follow her as she walks. The slightest hint of a smirk on her face, she looks up into the camera, addressing it as she continues to walk.
Nine van der Hoek:
Do you see the lengths I am forced to go to?
She asks rhetorically, a twinge of disappointment in her voice.
Nine van der Hoek:
I told you all that no one was safe. That myself and my Band of Nine would tear apart this roster, the likes of which has never - and will never be seen again. You people should know better than to play the hero. This is a fight you won’t win. A fight you can’t win. A fight that you simply shouldn’t try to win. When Nine comes for you, say a prayer to me - and hope that I let you walk away from it with your limbs intact.
The Frisian Demon shakes her head, prompting Erin Marie Paige to raise a fist, halting the cultists. Nine pauses, kneeling down quickly to retrieve the blade from her boot once more. The mass of individuals continues their forward march, van der Hoek unsheathing the ceremonial blade, presenting the drying blood on it to the camera.
Nine van der Hoek:
Trinity Thompson tried to be a hero. She did what she thought was the honorable thing to do. Trinity chose wrong - and now she bears the Mark of Nine. The mark is simply recognition of my ascent. Worn entirely by those who have taken Nine into their hearts through adoration, reverence or in Trinity’s case, sheer force. Her wound will heal, but the mark will remain. It will stay with her until her dying day, and will serve as a constant reminder that I am The Leader, and I am above.
Nine, Erin and the cultists following them begin to move past the camera but are soon stopped at the exit, where a group of police officers has formed a human blockade. Nine places a hand on an officer’s shoulder, exchanging a short word with them. The camera finally manages to move to the exit to catch the rest of the conversation, but only picks up the officer’s final word, “let them through”. The police part, allowing the Band of Nine through their ranks, each officer making sure to pull their sleeves down as much as possible as they see the camera’s approach. There remains an eerie silence, save for the sound of marching feet echoing through the parking lot as Nine, E.M.P and the Cultists that follow them exit the arena without reprehension for their act of violence earlier in the night.
Backstage we find Luna Smith borrowing the Riot Title replicas on sale this evening. Several scattered around her while she alternates tops to see which one goes with the belt best.
Luna Smith:
Bree, let me borrow the Lockdown title. These replicas don't give me an accurate look to go with the title.
Bree Smith:
Pfft. No. Get your own.
Luna Smith:
Uh I've already won that title. I want to see how a real title feels on my shoulder.
Bree then comes into the shot, proudly holding her title around her shoulder, patting the belt.
Bree Smith:
Sorry, Luna. Unless your name's Val, you're not putting any hands on this title. I'm not giving it up for even a moment.
Luna Smith:
I WON that before you. Stop being annoying and just hand it over for a second.
Bree Smith:
And I'll eclipse your record.
Luna glares at Bree who just blows a bubble with her strawberry bubblegum fast so it snaps and startles her.
West Long:
Nah.
We hear behind the two smith girls as West palms a frantic, lovestruck fan back. The fan buckles with no balance; falling on his ass so the warwolf stands taller when he looks up. Security show up to grab the fan by his arms and legs to get him out of there.
West Long:
Nice to see you showing up a few seconds too late.
He quipped to security before turning around to Luna.
Luna Smith:
So will you make quick work of your little admirer? I'm sure, given the fans picked my signature match, they'll stampede the ring to celebrate in my light. I may need to make a quick exit, so just fling Abby away quickly. Ok?
West Long:
Don't worry. I'm not anticipating Blake to go more than 15 with me. She got lucky in that tag match. You already handed her that first L. She's gonna try use the diving offense to even the playing field.
West grinds his palm on his other hand in a circular motion with a smirk.
West Long:
And you know I love swatting people out the air.
Luna Smith:
I'd kinda like to see that. Especially after Abby made me delay my shoot for my website after that idiotic knee she threw at me. Make sure you give her a fat lip or something.
West Long:
Its first blood, so it won't be pretty post-match, Luna.
Luna Smith:
Excellent.
Luna says to his comment and her stylist arriving to sort out her hair for the evening. Before he leaves, West makes a chin gesture to Bree.
West Long:
Yo, Bree.
Bree Smith:
Yeah?
West Long:
Knock 'em dead out there.
Bree Smith:
OH Yeah! I'm going to go on a rampage tonight. Breebarian vs Valkyrie. But I'll lock down that win too, Dude. Don't you worry!
Lockdown Championship Match
Bree's Rule: Gym Strap Match
Bree Smith © VS ValkyrieBree's Rule: Gym Strap Match
WINNER: Bree Smith (STILL LOCKDOWN CHAMPION) BY: Four Corners Touched, 11:26 |
We open backstage in a dark, dimly lit area of Madison Square Garden. It isn’t long before sinister laughter begins to echo out from the darkness. A few moments later and “The Assassin” Clyde Sutter emerges from stage right. He is dressed in his all black ring attire, including black trunks, black boots, and black elbow pads and knee pads. He is sporting a black trenchcoat and he has the MWE MENTV Championship title belt wrapped around his waist. Sutter stops in front of the camera and then begins to speak.
Clyde Sutter:
My reign as MENTV Champion has proven beyond the shadow of a doubt that I am not just The Assassin, I am not just a championship caliber athlete, but I am the very enforcer of time itself. Many have stepped up and stared fate into the eyes and they blinked, they folded under the pressure; Alan Envy, Kate Steele, Glory Braddock, Devon Slayton, and others have all fallen before me. Yet, as the enforcer of time itself, even I am baffled and confused from time to time.
Sutter points at the camera.
Clyde Sutter:
Dean Smith is my opponent tonight. Mr. Smith, do you actually believe that you are a threat to my MENTV Championship? Sure, you are big, you are bad, you are a powerhouse, but everything that you are…I am, but more. I am bigger than you, badder than you, and stronger than you. Unlike you, I do not have any moral constraints keeping me from doing whatever is necessary to keep this championship in my possession.
The Assassin pats the title belt that is wrapped around his waist.
Clyde Sutter:
You do baffle and confuse me, Mr. Smith; you see, whereas other victims have come and gone, you just keep coming back. You seem to be caught in the gravitational pull of the MENTV Championship. Unlike other wrestlers, who view this title as an opportunity to grow, an opportunity to slingshot themselves into bigger and better things, you seem forever tied to this championship. Look at Pierce Manning…he went from MENTV Champion to Riot Champion. Alex Andrews also went from MENTV Champion to Riot Champion. And if Ms. Andrews still happens to be champion by the time my required title defenses are fulfilled, I will go knocking on her door, I will break her in half, I will take away her title.
Sutter shakes his head.
Clyde Sutter:
This isn’t true for you, Mr. Smith. You were a former holder of this title, you lost it, and ever since then you have been challenging for it again and again but being beaten again and again. Your entire purpose for living has now been reduced to simply a statistic in the reign of whoever happens to be the MENTV Champion at that particular time. And I suppose that is fine with you, isn’t it Mr. Smith? You are perfectly content with just being another statistic for the MENTV Champion. Unfortunately for you, I am here to upset the status quo. As I have said before, everything and everyone has its appointed time. Everything and everyone must come to an end. Tonight will be the final night you serve as just another statistic because I won’t just beat you, I will put you out of misery.
He sneers at the camera.
Clyde Sutter:
Tick, tock, Mr. Smith. Tick, tock…
MENTV Championship Match
MENTV Rules
Clyde Sutter © VS Dean SmithMENTV Rules
WINNER: Clyde Sutter (STILL MENTV CHAMPION) BY: Pinfall (Unforgiven), 13:46 |
Backstage we find the Dalek, who has recently been malfunctioning due to a DDT it suffered at the hands of Seth Iser. Dalek has the MWE Chicago Way Championship title belt draped over its eye stalk and is wheeling away whilst Kimberly Williams is giving chase.
Kimberly Williams:
Get back here, you genocidal pepper pot!
Dalek:
INCORRECT! I SHALL NOT OBEY!
Kimberly Williams:
Stop right now!
Dalek does finally stop. It turns to face Kimberly.
Dalek:
WHAT DO YOU WANT?
Kimberly Williams:
First of all, I want this back…
The Woman Scorned takes the title belt away from Dalek.
Kimberly Williams:
...next we need to go to the ring, beat Andy Raynes half to death, and then take it from him legally! Are we clear, Rusty?
Dalek:
INCORRECT! I AM ANDREW RAYNES! I SHALL EMBRACE THE HATE! I SHALL SUCCESSFULLY DEFEND THE CHICAGO WAY TITLE AGAINST THE HUMAN FLESH CREATURE KNOWN AS KIMBERLY WILLIAMS!
Williams rolls her eyes.
Kimberly Williams:
Stupid, dustpan. I am Kimberly Williams.
Dalek:
YOU ARE KIMBERLY WILLIAMS?!
Kimberly Williams:
Yes! At least you got something right!
Dalek:
I AM ANDREW RAYNES! YOU ARE MY ENEMY! YOU SHALL BE EXTERMINATED!
Kimberly Williams:
Oh shit…
Dalek:
EXTERMINATE! EXTERMINATE! EXTERMINATE!
The Dalek shoots hot sauce out of its laser cannon. Kimberly runs away while Dalek gives chase.
Chicago Way Championship Match
Hardcore Rules, Dalek Locked In A Shark Cage
Andrew Raynes © VS Kimberly WilliamsHardcore Rules, Dalek Locked In A Shark Cage
WINNER: Andrew Raynes (STILL CHICAGO WAY CHAMPION) BY: Pinfall (cradle pin), 16:11 |
The open door on the airport hangar gives us a view of a private jet, waiting patiently. The brand new Chevrolet Suburban pulls into the shot and parks on an angle to the side of the plane. The black tinted windows blocking out whoever is in view. The drivers side door opens and a man gets out simultaneously as the back hatch opens. The driver opens the door on the back and quickly it’s revealed as Tiffany Lynn Page.
Dressed to impress as always before Duke Andrews gets out behind her. The driver of the Suburban has already moved to the back to grab the bags from the vehicle to transfer to the plane.
The sun reflects off of the plane and the steel from the hangar behind it.
Duke Andrews:
Too much midwestern class, every chick around me got a fat ass.
His hand slapped TLP on the backside before closing the door. Knowing the camera was on him as he reached into his pocket and grabbed a wad of cash. Pulling out a few hundred dollar bills and handing it to the driver.
Duke Andrews:
I’m like Elvis if he said fuck a lot. I’m Waylon if he didn’t see the cops. Buddy Holly cause I got the bop.
Pausing as Tiffany begins to ascend up the flight of stairs towards the plane.
Duke Andrews:
I could sit here and continue to chop down the same god damn tree that I have been for the last three months. How once again I’ve been passed over because our champion knows he has no chance one on one.
A deep breath as he walked towards the stairs. His lipped packed with a wad of Grizzly Straight. Sporting a pair of brand new snakeskins on his feet. His t-shirt reads “Die First. Then Quit.”
Once he made it into the plane, he found his seat across from Tiffany.
Duke Andrews:
This has gone on longer than it should have. The funny aspect of it, when I pitched my beef with Elsa, she couldn’t quite figure out what was going on. She couldn’t put her finger on why. Hell, she thought she was doing the right thing. Even then, it didn’t add up. Since Christmas I’ve been thinking about what has happened. Every time that our chumpion has said he isn’t avoiding me, another wrench gets thrown into the plan. I said I’d take on anyone that was out there. I laid out the path. Yet, match one is thrown out. Then it’s a tag match and once again Nathaniel looks around and finds someone else. And it never made sense.
Duke kicked back and crossed his feet in front of him. The tips of the boots emblazoned with a chrome tip.
Duke Andrews:
Had to go back and check the timeline. Once the idea floated back into his head that he might have to step up and face me in a situation in which he knows I’m far superior, he brings his gothic princess and her sideshow freak into the fold. And let me give you a little kudos, well played. You kept just enough distance from the carnival that you could fool almost anyone that you had no hand in this. But that changed nothing. I will not settle until my title is back on my shoulder. I know you listen to my words carefully, understand that it does not matter what the scene looks like, I will continue to chop down everyone in my way. You might live to fight another day, but that time is coming to an end. Whether you want to realize that, whether you want to heed my warning or not. This isn’t a threat big boy, this is a promise. You can try and say that I haven’t separated myself from the pack. While that’s a pure and utter bullshit lie. You might have finally convinced yourself that’s the truth. Hard to tell you face to face when you’re never around, but the fact that Seth couldn’t finish me off. Gloria never had the chance to elevate herself. Melissa finds herself back in the picture after choking last month.
Another long sigh from Duke as he looked at Tiffany and offered her a soft smile. He reached down into his pocket and plucked a ticket.
Duke Andrews:
Just so I know you’re here, in person, I’ll leave this ticket for you. Front row. At Will Call. Just tell them that you are my one guest. Right across from the hard cam. Bring your belt. People have forgotten what it looks like. But then you can see precisely what is coming for you.
He pushed the ticket down onto the tray along the side of his seat.
Duke Andrews:
But let’s circle back to the sideshow that is now standing in my way. Valentine. Cute name for a guy that was conceived to become my problem on Valentine’s Day. You are the unfortunate soul that has been paid for to do the same thing that Nathaniel was brought into do. The difference now, you’re going to be chained to the baddest fucker on the planet. I have no problems doing my job in that ring. I’ve bled buckets inside that ring and I know tonight it’s going to be more of the same. I know you think you’re capable of dishing it out but at the end of the night, you aren’t prepared to take years off of your career. You aren’t prepared for war. You’ve been successful here when you can get me when my back is turned. It’s funny to think that you’re the best that could be bought.
Duke raised an eyebrow as the door was finally shut and secured.
Duke Andrews:
The term APE Shit wasn’t just thought up one night in a hotel room. It’s the very meaning behind what we do. Alan Envy is one of the purest most proficient technical wrestlers. Dustin Douglas…
Tiffany holds her hand up as Duke smirks.
Duke Andrews:
The murder train. And myself. You pick your poison and I’ll tear you down before you know what happened. Tonight you’re going to see the ruthless fucker that will make you bleed just for the fun of it. You’ll feel the air escape your lungs and just before you pass out, just know that you gave it your all. Just know that this isn’t personal, pal. This is APE Shit that you unfortunately are on the wrong side of. You chose a bad business partner. And at the end of Dark Web, you will be known as the little engine that couldn’t.
A long sigh is heard as Duke leans forward.
Duke Andrews:
Give the devil death stares, I ain’t ever scared. That’s not just some line that I can print on a t-shirt. That ain’t just some feel good noise. That’s the way of life. Understand that I ain’t ever scared. Bring me everything you got, and remember to thank the gothic princess and the out of shape chumpion for the beating you’re about to take.
Dog Collar Match
Valentine VS Duke Andrews
WINNER: Duke Andrews BY: Pinfall (Andrews Effect), 16:02 |
We come backstage where we find the reigning, defending, undisputed Intercontinental champion of Millenium taping up his wrists in his locker room, pausing to check his own reflection in the championship he’s probably spent more than enough time shining up in his impressive 223 day reign thus far as champion. He finishes up and picks up the title, once again admiring either himself or the gold, it’s anyone’s guess.
Matt Stone:
It never gets old, seeing your face with a golden tint.
Nicole Rossi:
Am I interrupting something?
From behind where Matt is standing the familiar voice of his manager can be heard and the blonde is revealed to be standing there in the open doorway. There’s an amused smile on her face as she holds both of her hands behind her back. Matt turns around, startled but relaxes when he sees who it is.
Matt Stone:
Oh, hey. No, just making sure it looks the best for when we go out there. Speaking of which, you look lovely tonight.
Nicole looks down at what she’s wearing having gone shopping prior to tonight’s event. She is obviously pleased with her choice of red dress that hugs all of her curves and she gives Matt a smile as she steps into the room to approach him.
Nicole Rossi:
Tonight is a big night after all, where you successfully retain your Intercontinental championship against a woman who has so far coasted on pure luck to get through.
Matt Stone:
Well luck isn’t really something that I rely on, you can’t hold a title for as long as I have with just luck on your side.
He slings the title over his shoulder now, happily propping it up.
Matt Stone:
Though having a lucky lady by your side doesn’t hurt, I suppose.
Nicole is still keeping her hands behind her back as she nods her head, her eyes focused on the gold now propped up fully on display on Matt’s shoulder.
Nicole Rossi:
I know you have much more than luck on your side.
Matt Stone:
Speaking of by your side, what have you got there?
He only just noticed how she was standing rather oddly in the doorway, keeping her hands hidden. Nicole finally pulls her hands away from her back to present to him a gift wrapped bag with a bright red bow.
Nicole Rossi:
I got you a little something, for extra luck.
Matt Stone:
A present? For Moi? Pour Vous?
Matt approaches the bag and takes a look inside, peering through the wrapping.
Matt Stone:
What is it?
Nicole Rossi:
Open it and find out!
Nicole encourages him and he obliges, taking out the paper first, tossing it behind him on the floor without a care. He reaches inside of the bag once more and pulls out a pair of golden cufflinks along with a new tie in the same shade of red as Nicole’s dress.
Nicole Rossi:
It’s for after your match tonight.
Matt Stone:
Ohhh, fancy.
He examines the cufflinks and holds the tie up to his T-shirt.
Matt Stone:
How does it look?
Nicole smiles at him as she takes the now empty gift bag from his hand.
Nicole Rossi:
Worthy of someone who’ll be taking me out to dinner.
Matt Stone:
That certainly sounds like something I’d do. Thank you, I’m sure I’ll look dashing in these but for now, we’re looking forward to the match. Leia has been throwing shade for weeks now and it’s about time someone sat her down and taught her a lesson.
Nicole Rossi:
Leia can only wish to be half the big deal you are, it’s clear her star is fading, so she’s doing all she can to cling to the star power you hold. She’d only drag down the championship that you’ve been elevating since day one.
Matt Stone:
Honestly I think you’re being a little generous with the word star there.
He smirks, adjusting the title once more as if to show the world that he’s the star.
Matt Stone:
But you’re right, this title was going downhill fast until I climbed that ladder and retrieved the grail, so to speak. Now everyone wants it, but only I get to hold it and tonight will be no different.
Nicole Rossi:
Maybe I’ll get the chance to hold it tonight too.
He smirks, looking over to her.
Matt Stone:
You wanna hold this? Gotta pin me.
He gives her a wink and walks past her, chuckling as he exits the room.
Leia LeBeau:
Bright lights, New York City, the World’s most famous arena… Are you ready for The Show to begin?
Came the voice of the absolutely stunning Leia LeBeau, clad in her figure hugging ring gear, this one specially made to represent the continents of the world and colored in dazzling gold, with a platinum spiders web running down the leg. She did a little twirl, readjusting her trademark top hat as she began to twirl her cane around.
Leia LeBeau:
This is without a shadow of a doubt, the grandest stage in front of arguably the loudest crowd in the nation, the most passionate fans who are not afraid to make their opinions known and their voices heard. For some, the NYC crowd can be daunting, whether it be for professional wrestling or the glitz and glamor of Broadway. But for little old me? For The Show? This is where I shine brightest, hottest, fiercest. If I’m honest, it turns me into a bit of a Savage. And savage is what I will be tonight.
Making another sultry twirl, and giving a seductive sway of her hips, she winked to the camera. The Seattle born star rested her cane behind her head, smiling confidently for the camera as she licked her painted lips.
Leia LeBeau:
Matt Stone, the Intercontinental Champion. You knew you were bested all those weeks ago, and so you fled. You knew that The Show had your number, and your days as champion in MWE were numbered as well, so you took the cowards way out and ran. And since then, you have gone out of your way to cover up your cowardice by ruining my contests. Interfering, distracting, trying to cost me matches. All to cover up the big story… You’re a coward who couldn’t get the job done.
Showtime gave a slight chuckle, rolling her eyes before continuing on, taking a sip of her infamous pre match latte that seemed to appear from thin air.
Leia LeBeau:
And oooh, you didn’t like it when the tables were turned, did you? When the same trick was played on you and you were costed a match. No, no, you didn’t enjoy that. Two can play that game, and The Show plays it so much better than you. That is why you felt threatened. That is why you felt the need to run. That is why you earmarked me as your superior. And now, at the behest of the fans upon the Dark Web, you can’t run at all. In this two out of three falls match, if you run you lose a fall. If you try and run again, you lose the match, you lose to me and you lose your title to the true and deserving Intercontinental Champion. You try and get disqualified, you have someone run interference, you try and cheat and con your way away… The belt is mine. So you have no choice but to face off with your superior, the woman you were too chicken to face, the woman who had your number. The Show.
She twirled her cane again, winking to the camera before signing off and heading off down the hall, moments away from her Intercontinental Championship match.
Leia LeBeau:
It’s been too long since The Show held gold. And now, it’s Showtime.
MWE Intercontinental Championship Match
2/3 Falls
Matt Stone © VS Leia LeBeau2/3 Falls
WINNER: Leia LeBeau (NEW MWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP) BY: 2-1 pinfalls (School Boy Pin), 24:33 |
Shhh
It took the eye a while to make something out of a barely illuminated corner of the MSG parking lot. Oddly enough, this was the only part of the lot where the lights didn't seem to work, as if they were taken out on purpose. The glass fragments right under the streetlamp confirmed that theory, and it didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out who did it. From the darkness emerged Olly, hands deep in his pockets, that devious smirk always present on his face.
Olly:
You're all about to bear witness an historic moment, the culmination of a tragedy in three acts.
Act One, November 21st, 2021. Skylynn Reed attacked me on a Valiant show. The reason? Faith and I made her little girlfriend cry. Place closed a month later and I though that was the end of it.
Act Two, Albany, NY earlier this month. Karen, Julian and I were giving a lesson to the Callaways/Rollins and that little shit Clyde and Skylynn Reed got involved again. Funny how you all cheered someone who's not even signed to this company interfering in a match and attacking contracted wrestlers. It's funny how those who usually are quick to condemn this stuff didn't have anything to say. You all remembered what I said about hypocrisy, yeah? Good, go back and watch it again.
Act Three is right here, tonight. This parking lot is where, in a matter of minutes, this story ends. It's Skylynn's swan song, one last hurrah before her new life as a crippled housewife.
Without turning away from the camera, Olly pointed at the world famous venue behind him.
Olly:
Right now, she's walking the green mile. I wonder what's going through her mind, I wonder if she still has that bravado she usually flaunts. I hope so, I hope she got the prep talk from her girl, her friends, I hope they all patted her on the back and told her "You got this". I hope the locker room came around and pumped her up, I hope every single one of the idiots back there who are convinced that she can silence me stepped up to her and gave her courage, gave her hope.
And I hope they all will be watching as I end her.
Take notes, this is what happens when you let someone else fight your battles for you.
I hope you can live with the guilt, with the burden of being the reason why Skylynn Reed won't be able to step in a wrestling ring for the rest of her life.
I know I will.
Cracking a wicked smile to the camera, Olly turned around and walked away.
Parking Lot Brawl
Olly VS Skylynn Reed
WINNER: Olly BY: Referee Stoppage, 19:16 |
We cut backstage to Megan Manning standing in front of a camera, already dressed down in her ring gear. The look on her face showed that she was clearly annoyed.
Megan Manning:
Clout chasers! How many of them are going to interfere in my business and cost me opportunities? For months, MONTHS!!! Gareth and Billy have been the bane of my existence!!!
She scoffed and rolled her eyes.
Megan Manning:
I’m sick of them! Sick of them both! Sick of them trying to use MY name and MY legacy to try and elevate themselves. I’m sick of both of them trying to steal away all of my hard work!
She let out a huff before she paused for a brief moment. She gathered her bearings and moved closer to the camera.
Megan Manning:
Needless to say, after tonight? After I decimate and destroy these two MORONS!? I am down with them! Forever! After this? I will go back on my crusade of doing the one thing that his eluded me my entire career and that’s becoming the MWE World Champion.
Meg points to the camera.
Megan Manning:
Mark my words… This year? Before it ends? That will come to fruition and tonight is the start of it all. Tonight? I beat Billy and Gareth and I move onto bigger and better things. Tonight makes the beginning for Megan Manning’s quest to being champ. Nobody and I mean NOBODY can stop me. Just watch you idiots!
She made a face at the camera before storming out of the frame and the scene cuts away.
Triple Threat Match
No Disqualifications
Billy Danielson VS Megan Manning VS Gareth Prichard Jr.No Disqualifications
WINNER: Billy Danielson BY: Pinfall (Big Match Driver), 18:54 |
We then head to the locker room where we see the man known as Seth Iser, sitting on a chair with a calm expression etched on his face. There’s still that sleeve that protects his shoulder, a side effect from his wars, but the brace is back to it’s normal size on that left knee and he’s at least not using that strong wrapping over his forehead and we instead see that he has a nice new scar on his forehead. But as he sits there on the chair…he seems…a little bit lost in thought as if he’s thinking something over.
Seth Iser:
We only have ourselves to rely upon tonight…
There’s a calmness in his tone as he just seems fully in control of his emotions as he just leans back on that chair mulling something over. He opted to wear full black long tights with the words ‘Memento Mori’ going down his right leg in white and the skull motif on the opposite side, a bit of a departure from some of his usual designs. The thing that’s the most constant though are the black boots with the white SI letters on his trusty boots.
Seth Iser:
I don’t think the three of us would have it any other way…wanting to just worry about our own selves being pinned or submitted. Hell, Jessica made it pretty damn obvious when she puffed her chest out in our tag match a couple weeks ago just where a lot of us stand on the trust department. She should’ve trusted me..would've had a better chance in that tag situation. She’s a tag competitor and comes from a wrestling family…she really should know better. Hell, too many people make stupid pontifications when it comes to certain tag team partner draws when they happen when they don’t do any damn research. Another reason to knock some sense into as many people as I damn well can.
There’s a dismissive shake of the head as he’s stewing over that. The bitterness creeps into his voice for a moment as that frown is plastered on his face.
Seth Iser:
As much as this is a good opportunity to do some of that…that’s not the objective. Especially not with elimination rules being in play. Because quite frankly…it’s about the highest prize in our company. The World Championship. Two of us know what that particular championship feels like and the weight of expectation that comes along with it. That’d be Melissa and I. Jessica has won her fair share of gold but not that particular piece of hardware. But we all want to win it for our own reasons.
The frown remains as he gestures to the sleeve protecting his shoulder for a moment.
Seth Iser:
I’m again…not at one hundred percent. Maybe ninety…ninety-five if I’m really feeling charitable but not a hundred. That…hell that I went through three weeks ago ensures that I won’t be. The scars of war forever taint a soul in spirit and mind as you know. And I barely survived that ordeal…but a nickname died. A mindframe…even, died. Greatest Mind in Pro Wrestling? Dead. Killed. Deceased…
He lowly recounts all of that as his face shows a little more of that age. The black hair is growing a little longer but it’s the beard that shows that gray. He delivers one more pull on that sleeve that protects that arm and especially shoulder from excessive harm.
Seth Iser:
It’s getting harder to fight back father time…the bad aspects of it, anyhow. I can’t deny that with the increasing frequency of my injuries. So I know that eventually I’ll be out of time. I don’t know when the sands on the hour glass run out…but it’s coming. I still haven’t had a downtick in my actual peak performance but the injuries…make them more draining. It takes a little more time getting in the ice bath. A little more time in the chiropractor. Some of it is maintenance but…it’s really starting to add up…
He then looks toward the camera with a hint of how tired he’s been of dealing with all of this.
Seth Iser:
In other words…I don’t have the luxury of time. Maybe I can get there later. But I don’t want the damn thing handed to me either. I know BROOKFORD could have but I wouldn’t take it. A World Title is a crown built on not politics but blood. And I’ve spilt my fair share of blood over the years for the chance to be a champion…and as champion I’ve spilt even more. But when it comes ot someone who is running out of time…I do pose a question to both Melissa and Jessica…
There’s menace creeping into his voice as he finally stands up. He even reaches back into the locker and pulls out the ring jacket adorned in a similar skull pattern with Memento Mori the theme as well. Even a couple vines from the skull growing out in a rather mortal, earth feel.
Seth Iser:
It’s known for years…I’ve never worn a white hat. I’m damn sure not a nice guy. Especially when it comes to championship aspirations. I know what you’re both willing to do…and possibly not willing in order to eliminate the other two competitors. But I’m the man who helped redefine what it means to be a rogue in the ring. Nobody knows more about getting the most out of a devious tactic then I do…and what do you think I’m willing to do to ensure I’m the one getting my hand raised? There can only be one winner after all…and it isn’t first pinfall or submission….that plays into my hand a little.
There’s a calm smirk that does exude confidence that he is going to do what it takes to get the job done.
Seth Iser:
In a wild environment, it favors those who have a long history of being a maverick…an outlaw. And I’m the last representation of what our sport once was. I’m indeed The Last Outlaw of Professional Wrestling. The gunslinger who has seen every kind of fight there is…and is all the wiser for it. And before I’m claimed into the ether entirely…I will be World Champion one more time…and I’m kicking both of your asses in my pathway to get there.
And then a sly smirk etched on his face as he looks toward the camera.
Seth Iser:
And whether it’s Glory or BROOKFORD…my money is on the latter obviously…we’ll cross that bridge what all of this means after tonight. But…I will be the next contender for the championship and prove once again that you can never discount the traditional elements of a wrestler or the sport itself…I am that representation…I am it. Hell, I redefined it. And this is just another way to confirm my legacy to the broader industry…and won’t be anything Melissa, Jessica, or anyone else for that matter can do about it.
And with that confident but defiant statement the veteran marches off knowing what is ticking in his brain.
The camera opens on a shot of Jennifer Carter, standing alongside Melissa Reeves in the backstage area.
Jennifer Carter:
Melissa, thank you for joining me.
Reeves nods.
Jennifer Carter:
So, we’re here for Dark Web IV and tonight you’re going to be competing in the main event. That match also offers the winner a chance to challenge for the MWE Title, too. What are your thoughts there?
She points the microphone toward Melissa.
Melissa Reeves:
You know, I’ve been here before, verging on winning a championship opportunity. Seth, Jessica and myself…it’s a match with plenty of talent, plenty of desire and two former holders of that championship to boot.
Jennifer pulls the microphone back.
Jennifer Carter:
I-
Reeves cuts her off before she can speak fully, which forces Carter to point the microphone back her way.
Melissa Reeves:
But it’s more than that. For me it’s another chance, yes, and I will admit my fortunes in these multi-people contests is a little mediocre at times. I mean, that’s the nature of these things, right? I do prefer singles contests, but I’ll work with what I’m given.
Jennifer nods, smiling
Jennifer Carter:
Well you say that, but you’ve also got a pretty good record of making it count when it matters most, don’t you? Look at your run in Underground last year, culminating in winning the North American title multiple times. So is this the first step back to a Melissa Reeves MWE Title run?
Reeves shrugs.
Melissa Reeves:
Could be, Jenny. Could be. What’s clear is that whoever wins this match will have earned themselves a shot at the champion - which is vitally important. I would hate to simply be handed a shot for no reason. God forbid that ever happening.
She’s clearly not happy about others getting opportunities in exactly that way, but leaves it unsaid.
Jennifer Carter:
You may not be aware, but I took a look at the previous Dark Web events and you’ve actually never been defeated at one. Does history like that mean much to you, and does it affect your thinking going into tonight?
Reeves shakes her head.
Melissa Reeves:
It’s neat to hear records like that, but it means little really. The history is nice but it makes no difference to what’ll happen tonight. Would I love to keep that record going? Sure, absolutely, but it’ll be down to how I perform tonight and not how I’ve performed in the past. Equally, you know, I’ve faced both of my opponents tonight before. I can beat them, they can beat me and each other. It’s what happens at the top end of things, you know…there’s a lot of great talent here.
After hearing her out, Jennifer widely smiles.
Jennifer Carter:
Melissa, thank you for your time and good luck.
Mel smiles and nods, waving to the camera.
Melissa Reeves:
Of course. Cya all later, guys.
End.
MWE World Championship #1 Contender Match
Elimination Rules
Elimination Rules
Seth Iser VS Jessica Lasiewicz VS Melissa Reeves
WINNER: Melissa Reeves BY: Pinfall (Facial Deconstructor), 26:32 |