Post by gvb on Dec 20, 2018 14:34:27 GMT -6
MILLENNIUM XXIII: Error 404
Live from Spectrum Center in Charlotte, NC
Wednesday, December 19, 2018
It wasn't “When Legends Rise” that brought them to their feet; no, when the feed went live, the dragging of heavy chain links banged loudly from the speakers. There was no pyrotechnic explosion kicking off the show, just fire. Actual flames on the stage while fluttering reds and oranges enhanced the ominous billows of smoke rising into the rafters. They weren't waving homemade posters in anticipation of the night's matches; instead, their throwing arms were locked and loaded, trash in hand.
He made them wait until the dragging chain was at full draw before they all that could be heard.
A deafening roar of bitter loathing.
It wasn't Godsmack to start the night, it was Zac Brown Band with their cover of “Heavy Is the Head”. It ushered out the Godless Heathen from the South.
And, they let him have it.
Heathen Jones had no sooner stepped through the curtain before the garbage was flying. He stopped at the top of the ramp, unaffected, with his Red Wings planted firmly. His Wranglers were dusty, stained and torn. The sleeves of his heavy flannel were rolled once and pulled half-way up his forearms. He pushed the lip if his Mossy Oak mudjug to his lips with his right hand, drawing out the wait as he spat his wad of tobacco. His beady black eyes were shadowed by the brim of his straw orchard hat, but his glare was fixed on the ring below. Wrapped tightly around his left wrist and wound through the grip of his fist, the links of a logging chain that trailed off behind the curtain.
A toothy Cheshire grin cracked the tight black curlies of his “grizzly” as he allowed the suspense to build. Then, as if he had ripped the cord to pull start his mower, he yanked the chain.
Hickey fell through the curtain, stumbling over her feet before crashing down on the steel grating of the stage and crawling to and then up Heathen to get to her feet. Gasps of disgust and helplessness followed by harsh words of hate and ridicule. She is dinky, like she hadn't eaten since the catering risk last week. She was dirty, head to toe, as was everything she wore. From the newspaper then flip-flops that she stood in to the tangled mop atop her head, there'd pretty much have to be a comparable mess on the inside too, right? Bound to Heathen by the eight-foot chain wrapped once around her waist and locked.
She absolutely did not want to go, but she had to, he made certain of it. And, showered in empty boxes, trays and cups, he dragged her down the ramp.
With each step, he ignored her pleading. All the way to ringside, she begged him to turn around, reminded him they weren't booked and tried to convince him that no one had to be hurt tonight. He heard none of it, pointed to the ring steps and flopped up onto the apron. He rolled in under the bottom rope and crawled to Hickey's corner. He unwound the chain, wrapped it once around the ring post and secured it with a Masterlock from his chest pocket. To his feet, across the ring demanding the microphone only to occupy the very center of the landfill that the ring had become.
He banked on every second they hated him, but there are also those live stream time limitations, so, he opened up on them.
Heathen Jones:
Funny, ain't it…
He wasn't going to talk over them, so he let them have their moment. Antagonizing, of course, he leaned on the top rope and looked down at his wrist; why, if they had all night, then so did The Grinch… sorry, wrong story. ahem...
Heathen Jones:
…bet´cha done `eard, third time's-uh charm, right?
The commentators mentioned how neither had ever heard a crowd of twenty-thousand all-together hate any other competitor in their recent memory.
Heathen Jones:
Here's duh-Heathen, y'all. Week three meh gettin´`ere an´ look ah`duh Hell meh done raise-up. But… but…
He failed to quiet them so, he gestured for the microphone volume to be raised. And, then he talked over them.
Heathen Jones:
Nah, y'all, leh-me tell ya somethin´; ya see, duh-Heathen `ere t'night tuh make some officials. First…
They did not want to hear anything he had to say. The increases in volume were causing distortion in the feed and so, he went back to antagonizing them.
Heathen Jones:
Meh sure dem folks watchin’ dis live stream gonna wanna see some matches, y'all…
This battle with them was going to be tedious and the last ditch effort was to attempt to rally them.
Heathen Jones:
For dose y'all wanna `ear meh out, meh gonna rep y'all in the Union Battleground Crown of the King Cobra dis season.
That quieted them down as some heard, others thought they had and most were cluelessly stunned by the reaction if those around them.
Heathen Jones:
Meh put meh bid in an´ gots `cepted an´ meh gonna rep Mill… Millila-nuh-nium.
It was more a slap in the face than something they would want to celebrate with him. The fact that he couldn't pronounce the promotion in which he was representing soon had him laughed at and mocked. In training, you are told to remember, those that will hurt you the most are those you will hurt the most for. While an unexpected turn of the crowd, it meant heat. And, it instantly pissed Heathen off.
Heathen Jones:
Clea`ly, y'all can't gets ov'r shit! Y'all duh only-uns mad `bout last week. Been out `ere goin´ on five talkin´ meh, meh, meh an´ no un comin´ out `ere tuh stop meh…
As if it was meant to be a cue “Swear it to the Sun” behind mid song as the loathing for Heathen changes to love and a pop as Alan Envy appears on stage. Heathen leaps off the top turnbuckle as Hickey stares Envy down. Alan has a microphone as he slowly walks down the ramp. A huge Envy chant reverberates throughout the arena as the last Lonestar champion, where these two first made aquanticences, put the microphone to his lips.
Alan Envy:
You though they always say a woman is always the wiser one in a relationship. You should have stayed in the back, because someone is going to get hurt tonight. But it's not going to be me!! It's going to be the man who ol Uncle Saul got into the tournament!
Envy starts taking his shirt off as he drops the microphone. Heathen backs away, against the ropes furthest the entrance, taunting and provoking. Heathen shows there is plenty of space as he dared the Texan to charge the ring.
Heathen Jones:
She jus´ don't wanna see meh hurtin´ anybody an´ put yer shirt on she don't wanna...
Then, it hit him. Envy hit him. Low and subtle, but there it was. In Heathen's eyes and across his brow, Envy had pinched a nerve.
Heathen Jones:
Gettin´ real damn sick an´ tired of y'all b´lievin´ an´ spreadin´ dat shit. Meh place meh bid, meh gots `cepted an´ meh gonna rep´ `ere.
Pacing back and forth, Heathen continued to argue as Envy kept them riled up.
Heathen Jones:
Saul gots nothin´ tuh do with it. Lonestar jus´ pissy he ain't gots it tuh-rep where he puttin´ in duh-work. Ya know what...
Any way he could avoid turning the heat up under himself, Heathen avoided saying “Millennium”.
Heathen Jones:
...meh was gonna beat`cher ass ah´duh pay tuh-watch, but naw, come on down `ere Lonestar.
Heathen waved his arms, reminding Envy he had cleared half of the ring. Envy didn't hesitate, rushing the ring, but Heathen caught him sliding in. The Cajun put the boots to Envy without mercy. Then, made the mistake of pulling Envy to his feet. Envy blocked a left from Heathen and blasted him with a right. Envy blocked a second and rocked Heathen again. On the third exchange, Envy floored Heathen.
Heathen rolled to his knees and attempted to duck out through the middle and top ropes, but Envy snatched him by the waist of his britches. While Hickey squealed and screamed on the outside, Envy pulled Heathen back in and spun him around for the Envious Demise! ...but Hickey quickly used the chain to swipe Heathen's feet from under him and pull him out.
As the crowd absolutely lost it, Envy feeding off of the adrenaline, Heathen smacked the apron and went to backpedaling up the ramp. Hickey went to follow, but the chain went taunt.
For a long, awkward moment, she was literally locked between the two.
Twenty-thousand chanted, “LET HER GO!”
Envy stood in the center of the ring, primed and ready. There was no reason in Hell, Heathen would dare get back in the ring.
Hickey extended her right arm and opened her hand, palm up.
That, that absolutely wasn't happening so, Heathen turned his back and headed up the ramp. At the top of the ramp, the pop of the crowd spun Heathen around. On the commentators’ side, a ring grip tossed Envy a pair of heavy-duty bolt cutters.
While the gentleman from Texas cut the young girl free, Heathen disappeared behind the curtain. She was quickly behind him, dragging the chain all the way. Envy grabbed the microphone again.
Alan Envy:
Your bullshit stops now Heathen Jones. I'm not done with you. Not by a long shot. Leave the girl backstage you coward and get your Louisianan Cajun ass back here!!
Envy tosses the microphone out of the ring and extends his arms. The Millennium fans on their feet loving the start to this show as they wanted to see these two fight
EARLIER TODAY!!!!!!
Like, before the show when all the other wrasslers have to check in. Our intrepid hero, the rookie sensation and most notably guy who had 4 swipes his direction on Tinder last night…..DUSTIN DOUGLAS walks to arena doors. He is pulling his little bag behind him, you know the ones on wheels that people carry when they travel a lot. Dusty got it on sale during Cyber Monday and he is pretty stoked about it.
Dusty:
Hey Mr Narrator, please stop talking about my bag and focus on me.
My Bad. Anyway, Dusty approaches the entrance, and some of the more….what the word Im looking for here? Dedicated makes it sound like they are hyper focused, these guys are those wrestling nerds who don't have jobs because they are either like 7th year college students living at home still because affordable housing is a fantasy….or people who collect that government check every month, and love to wear flannel shirts with the sleeves cut off. Anyway, as Dusty approaches, some Cousin Loving Mullet sporting Neckbeard yells at him.
Cousin Loving Mullet sporting Neckbeard:
Hey man….you that new guy Dusty Douglas. Me and my sister cousin love watching your matches man but man, your gimmick sucks man. You need work on it man. Believe me man, Ive been watching wrassling shows ever since my sister cousin was just my sister.
Dusty:
I dont even want to start to think how that works. Please do not reproduce.
Cousin Loving Mullet sporting Neckbeard:
Man I dont know what that word means man, but man, me and Sister Cousin wanna watch you man but you need a better gimmick man. Your gimmick sucks.
The Cousin loving Mullet Sporting Neckbeard starts a chant, or tries to at least, the other dozen or so people dont really care to join in as it would take away from them using their juul pods, but there is a murmuring about Dusty and his great work rate but crappy gimmick.
Dusty:
Im getting to old for this….
Dusty walks into the building and starts shaking his head.
Singles Match
Dustin Douglas VS Reggie Walker
The Millennium fans most definitely took a liking to the 35 years old rookie Dustin Douglas welcoming him with loud cheers and a few handmade signs referring to his streak. And tonight he had the chance to go 3-0 as he took on Reggie Walker. The two men met in the middle of the ring trading shots. Reggie caught Dustin off guard with a headbutt to the bridge of the nose, quickly applying a front facelock and draping his arm over his shoulder, lifting him, not without effort, for a suplex. Reggie looked determined to bounce back and prove his worth after the losing effort against Katie Montes, and he seemed to have Dustin's number for the first part of the contest, coming this close to end the streak after a spinebuster/frog splash combination. Dustin slowly started mounting some offense after the close call, his open palm strikes knocking Reggie down. And once Douglas started rolling, there was no way for Walker to stop him. After almost getting the job done with a running senton, Dusty picked him up from the mat with a deadlift Gutwrench Suplex. Reggie rolled out of the ring, trying to find an opening Dustin had no intention to give him, as he reached him outside with a baseball slide. The impact sent Reggie against the barricade, and he was still holding his back in pain when when the rookie sensation lifted him and powerbombed him on the apron. Dustin took some time to celebrate with the fans, reaching Walker back in the ring as the referee's count reached eight. With absolutely no rush, knowing he had this in his pocket, Douglas waited patiently until Reggie stood up. Then he hit The Killamajig, his patented Gory Neckbreaker and walked out with a win. WINNER: Dustin Douglas BY: Pinfall (The Killamajig), 5:44 |
Bea Torres: "THE STREAK LIVES ON!"
Jared Idol: "Bea, don't. He only won three matches..."
Bea Torres: "And lost none. Hence why it's a streak!"
Jared Idol: "We saw this happening before. Some guy walks in, win a couple of matches, thinks they are invincible and when they get the first loss, they disappear."
Bea Torres: "They are not Dusty! This guy has it, I'm telling you!"
Jared Idol: "Meh. I'm not sold on him. I actually think that his gimmick sucks."
Darkness.
That is the only thing we see, an infinite black void on whatever screen is being used. No sound or sight, just the thoughts of the viewer who are collectively left to wonder what was happening.
And then, just at the edge, a tiny bit of light. Flickering and orange, it slowly moved it’s way into frame before staying on one spot. When it did that, a brighter light began at that spot, a candle being lit. As that small flame came into existence, a woman’s voice was heard speaking a single word in Japanese. To the eagle-eared, the voice would be known as Rie Shimizu. After that word a male’s voice, far closer to the screen, speaks too. Homare Kato, Rie’s advisor and manager.
Homare Kato:
Failure.
The smaller flame moved and the view desperately followed it as it moved along, stopping to light another camera. Rie spoke one word again, and then so did Kato.
Homare Kato:
Disappointment.
This continued, the small flame moving to light a candle, Rie speaking a word that Homare translated. As more candles were lit, it was apparent that they were forming a half-circle, with Rie at the center. She sat on her knees, hands laid in her lap, eyes closed, a sad look on her face. Homare never stepped into frame, just his voice being heard. Finally, the candles were all lit, and with them all of the words were heard.
Failure. Disappointment. Weakness. Presumptuous.
Rie spoke a sentence, before leaning forward, bowing her head deeply in apology.
Homare Kato:
She said that she failed, and she wants all to know of her apology for that.
She sat up straight and spoke again, slowly and at length, a few recognizable names coming up: Heathen and Envy. When she finally finished, Kato began.
Homare Kato:
She made many promises. That she would stop Heathen Jones from getting that important first win, that she would put a roadblock on his path. That did happen, but it was not by her hand. She was down and out when Envy turned out to be the one to fulfill that promise. While she laid on the mat, unable to do anything. She failed. She was the weaker one, obvious to all.
She continued on then, words even slower and more carefully picked, with nothing recognizable until the name at the end.
Homare Kato:
She is filled with a shame that cannot be expressed with the words of the living. To make a promise like that, not just to those of you that watched but to the departed that she was speaking to, she is appalled with herself. But she can’t wallow in negative emotions like that. Becoming swallowed by them is a fate beyond death, and one we should all hope to avoid. Instead, Rie must get to her feet, dust herself off, and look to what is ahead, to change the course she put herself on, an opportunity granted this week. Paddy Costigan.
Rie bowed her head again, speaking a quick sentence.
Homare Kato:
“Elder, thank you for this match.”
She sat up again and spoke at length once more, Paddy’s name coming up a few times, as her expression slowly stopped having that sadness.
Homare Kato:
She says that to face someone with as much experience as you have is an honor. As someone that has relatively just begun in wrestling, the chance to face who has done so much is a boon to her career. The things she can learn just from being in the ring with you, seeing how you perform and how you react. She is truly happy to have this chance to learn from you across from you in the ring.
A small pause.
Homare Kato:
But regrettably, honored elder, I want to tell you that she cannot just learn from you tonight. She failed last week, and despite what the records say she will never accept that match as a victory for herself. It exposed how far she has to go, how out of reach her hopes and dreams are. She has put herself on the path of a disappointment, a failure, and she must change that. So I tell you, Paddy, that tonight she will throw all she has in herself at you. Even with a deep respect for you as an elder that succeeded before her, she must find a way to put you down, or this path will continue, and grow ever closer to being irreversible. She must find a way.
As he said all of that Rie closed her eyes, letting her manager speak his own mind about it. But when he finished she opened them, and it was apparent that sadder look was back on her face, as she repeated a word from earlier.
Homare Kato:
Presumptuous. The final mistake she made.
When she spoke then it was even slower, her tone littered with sadness and disappointment. After a while she finished, and Kato began.
Homare Kato:
To ask the departed to grant her anything on her first night, that was so presumptuous. That should have been when she stood on her own two feet and proved she was worthy, that she spoke to them truly, not just seeking favor without caring. But that is what she seemed to be, and that is why there was no boon for her that night, only failure.
She spoke a simple sentence.
Homare Kato:
“I will make up for it.”
She went on from there, her tone losing that sadness and growing more determined, and when Kato translated it was clear there was a hint of being pleased with that in his tone.
Homare Kato:
She says she will do here what she failed to do before. She will go out, speaking to the departed, and with that she will put on a show for them, a show of success against a successful elder, proving that she too is capable of one day reaching that status. And of being worthy of them listening to her words at all, instead of just leaving her alone in the darkness.
She pushed up onto her feet, looking into the camera’s view and giving a determined nod, speaking one last sentence.
Homare Kato:
“For all watching, here and beyond, I will do my best. Thank you.”
And then he spoke his own words one last time.
Homare Kato:
Just as Rie did, you should give thought to the departed that are around you. May they be proud of you tonight.
And with that came a movement from off-camera, a wind pushing out that blew out the candles, leaving only that crowded darkness again.
Singles Match
Paddy Costigan VS Rie Shimizu
Rie made it clear, what happened last week could not be considered a win in her eyes. And tonight she was all the more determined to get that first win she felt Envy's interference denied her last week. Costigan had a huge chip on his shoulder after the shocking loss against Yona Blake back at Millennium XXI and this translated to a new found aggression since the opening bell forcing Rie in the corner with some stiff jabs, where he continued his ruthless attack with kicks and stomps. Even when the referee separated them, Paddy wasted no time to drag her back to her feet and whip her in the opposite corner with all his strength. With Shimizu down, the long time veteran started working on her upper body, neck and shoulders mostly, with various submission hold from his vast repertoire, including a STF. It had been a good minute since Rei was locked in when she managed to slip out of it, locking him in a Crossface. Eventually Costigan reached the close ropes, breaking the submission attempt. Paddy was still firmly in control after the spinning Spinebuster that almost gave him the win. After the kick out, Shimizu took a moment to reevaluate her strategy and rolled out of the ring seeking for advice from Kato. Coming back in the ring, she found Paddy waiting for her with a middle kick and a snap ddt, following with another cover for a second near fall. Out of nowhere, Rie turned things around when she blocked a German suplex attempt with a couple of elbows, switching positions and dropping the veteran on her knees with a Backstabber. It was now Rie's chance to show her technical skills, applying the Breakdown, a Texas cloverleaf. The move didn't get her the win, but it definitely did some damage to Paddy's legs and back, affecting his mobility. And she took full advantage of the way the events suddenly turned in her favor, taking him off his feet once again with the jumping spinning knee strike she calls Flash Nap. Paddy lifted his shoulder in time, but his opponent was in absolute control now, and the fans were pushing her toward the win. She waited for him to stand up, unleashing a series of swift kicks to the ribs and head leaving him staggering. Hitting the ropes, Rie took him on his knee with a low dropkick, finishing him off with the Spirit Tour, a bicycle axe kick to the top of his head. WINNER: Rie Shimizu BY: Pinfall (Spirit Tour), 7:21 |
Jared Idol: "And Rie gets her second win in Millennium at the expenses of the veteran Paddy Costigan"
Bea Torres: "It's the first win, last week doesn't count!"
Jared Idol: "The records say otherwise.."
Bea Torres: "Yes but... Ugh why are you like this?"
Jared Idol: "What, pragmatic? Realistic? Right?"
Bea Torres: "Annoying..."
A video filmed earlier in the day airs, in which Selina Metzger is seen sat in one of the terminals at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, waiting for a connecting flight, heading towards Charlotte for the show. Dressed in a pair of royal blue jeans and a black t-shirt, and recording herself using her smartphone, Selina begins by offering a smile.
Selina Metzger
Grüß dich.
It is an informal greeting, which roughly translates into English as hello there.
Selina Metzger
Tonight, for the first time in my fledgling career, I’m going to be competing in the main event of a show, as I take another step towards the level that I intend to eventually reach in Millennium. It’s a match that has potential ramifications for everyone involved, myself included, and that makes it all the more important that my first appearance in a main event is a successful one. I will though have two pretty good partners by my side, in Jennifer Yang and Tiffany Tompkins, two women that I’m sure I can rely upon, when we take on the current Millennium Champion, Nessa Wall, the Cloud Gate Champion, Britty Kane, and the current Lockdown Champion… Luna.
Selina looks off to the side for a moment. She then looks back to her phone/camera, and continues.
Selina Metzger
Two days ago, Gianluigi Vaccaro tweeted that I’m on his shortlist for a shot at the Lockdown Championship, and that this match will tell him whether or not I belong there.
By now, Selina’s earlier smile has mostly faded, and her face instead bears a somewhat neutral expression.
Selina Metzger
He also said that I have been “impressive so far in Millennium,” and I don’t think it’s arrogant of me to say that was an accurate statement, as since my debut at the beginning of September, I’ve put together an admirable win/loss record. In fact, I’ve been so impressive that within two months of making my debut, I earned the opportunity to challenge for a championship of my choice, following a victory over the then-Lockdown Champion, Kate Steele. If I had chosen differently, it would’ve been me that Kate defended the title against at Deep-Six, not Luna, and then that belt she has would be in my possession already.
A slight sigh escapes Selina’s lips.
Selina Metzger
If I had known then what I know now, perhaps I would’ve opted to challenge for the Lockdown title, rather than the Cloud Gate title, but I made my choice, and I don’t have any regrets. I mean, I was on the verge of winning the match until Britty stole it from me, and although I didn’t leave Deep-Six as the Cloud Gate Champion, I proved once again - as Jared Idol said afterwards - that I’m a force to be reckoned with.
A self-satisfied smirk crosses her face.
Selina Metzger
If I am indeed on the shortlist for a shot at the Lockdown Championship, I fully believe that my performances in every match I’ve had up to now inside a Millennium ring - including the triple threat match at Deep-Six, as well as my most recent match, two weeks ago, against Olivia Wythe - have shown that I should be on that shortlist. Actually, I’ll go further than that, and say that this shortlist should be so short that it should only have one person’s name on it: me - Selina Metzger.
She points towards herself, as if to emphasize her statement.
Selina Metzger
But if our esteemed general manager needs further evidence to support my case, or if he simply needs a reminder of what I’m capable of, after giving me a night off from competition last week, then I’ll be happy to provide him with it later. And what better setting for me to showcase my abilities than the main event?
That is, of course, a rhetorical question, and Selina gives a shrug of her shoulders, before continuing.
Selina Metzger
It might be my first main event, but this match holds no fear for me. After nearly four months of being in Millennium, no one has yet been able to pin me, or make me submit, and I don’t see that changing tonight. Both Nessa and Britty have been opponents of mine previously, with Nessa choosing to walk out on the match, rather than sticking around to see what would happen, and although Britty may have won our last encounter, as I already alluded to, I wasn’t the one that she pinned to cling on to her title. And as for Luna…
Selina pauses for a couple of seconds, as she considers what to say about the Lockdown Champion.
Selina Metzger
She’s talented, I’ll give her that, but she isn’t… well… she isn’t Der Übermensch.
She then raises her free arm and flexes her bicep.
Selina Metzger
I have no doubts that Jennifer, Tiffany and I will be able to function as team, but I can’t say the same for our three opponents. I’ve seen Nessa refer to her partners as “trash,” and even if she doesn’t walk out on this match, I still can’t see her, Britty and Luna working together well enough for them to be able to get the win.
There is a shake of the head from Selina.
Selina Metzger
This match is a chance for me to test myself against the current best in Millennium, it’s a chance for me to get my hands on Britty again after what happened at Deep-Six, and it’s a chance for me to set about dimming Luna’s star. Come the end of the match though, whether I’m the sole remaining member of my team, or whether one or both of my partners survive until the end as well, the outcome will be the same as it has been so often during my time so far in Millennium: Selina über alles.
Selina then stares confidently into the camera lens, as the video comes to an end.
Selina Metzger
Grüß dich.
It is an informal greeting, which roughly translates into English as hello there.
Selina Metzger
Tonight, for the first time in my fledgling career, I’m going to be competing in the main event of a show, as I take another step towards the level that I intend to eventually reach in Millennium. It’s a match that has potential ramifications for everyone involved, myself included, and that makes it all the more important that my first appearance in a main event is a successful one. I will though have two pretty good partners by my side, in Jennifer Yang and Tiffany Tompkins, two women that I’m sure I can rely upon, when we take on the current Millennium Champion, Nessa Wall, the Cloud Gate Champion, Britty Kane, and the current Lockdown Champion… Luna.
Selina looks off to the side for a moment. She then looks back to her phone/camera, and continues.
Selina Metzger
Two days ago, Gianluigi Vaccaro tweeted that I’m on his shortlist for a shot at the Lockdown Championship, and that this match will tell him whether or not I belong there.
By now, Selina’s earlier smile has mostly faded, and her face instead bears a somewhat neutral expression.
Selina Metzger
He also said that I have been “impressive so far in Millennium,” and I don’t think it’s arrogant of me to say that was an accurate statement, as since my debut at the beginning of September, I’ve put together an admirable win/loss record. In fact, I’ve been so impressive that within two months of making my debut, I earned the opportunity to challenge for a championship of my choice, following a victory over the then-Lockdown Champion, Kate Steele. If I had chosen differently, it would’ve been me that Kate defended the title against at Deep-Six, not Luna, and then that belt she has would be in my possession already.
A slight sigh escapes Selina’s lips.
Selina Metzger
If I had known then what I know now, perhaps I would’ve opted to challenge for the Lockdown title, rather than the Cloud Gate title, but I made my choice, and I don’t have any regrets. I mean, I was on the verge of winning the match until Britty stole it from me, and although I didn’t leave Deep-Six as the Cloud Gate Champion, I proved once again - as Jared Idol said afterwards - that I’m a force to be reckoned with.
A self-satisfied smirk crosses her face.
Selina Metzger
If I am indeed on the shortlist for a shot at the Lockdown Championship, I fully believe that my performances in every match I’ve had up to now inside a Millennium ring - including the triple threat match at Deep-Six, as well as my most recent match, two weeks ago, against Olivia Wythe - have shown that I should be on that shortlist. Actually, I’ll go further than that, and say that this shortlist should be so short that it should only have one person’s name on it: me - Selina Metzger.
She points towards herself, as if to emphasize her statement.
Selina Metzger
But if our esteemed general manager needs further evidence to support my case, or if he simply needs a reminder of what I’m capable of, after giving me a night off from competition last week, then I’ll be happy to provide him with it later. And what better setting for me to showcase my abilities than the main event?
That is, of course, a rhetorical question, and Selina gives a shrug of her shoulders, before continuing.
Selina Metzger
It might be my first main event, but this match holds no fear for me. After nearly four months of being in Millennium, no one has yet been able to pin me, or make me submit, and I don’t see that changing tonight. Both Nessa and Britty have been opponents of mine previously, with Nessa choosing to walk out on the match, rather than sticking around to see what would happen, and although Britty may have won our last encounter, as I already alluded to, I wasn’t the one that she pinned to cling on to her title. And as for Luna…
Selina pauses for a couple of seconds, as she considers what to say about the Lockdown Champion.
Selina Metzger
She’s talented, I’ll give her that, but she isn’t… well… she isn’t Der Übermensch.
She then raises her free arm and flexes her bicep.
Selina Metzger
I have no doubts that Jennifer, Tiffany and I will be able to function as team, but I can’t say the same for our three opponents. I’ve seen Nessa refer to her partners as “trash,” and even if she doesn’t walk out on this match, I still can’t see her, Britty and Luna working together well enough for them to be able to get the win.
There is a shake of the head from Selina.
Selina Metzger
This match is a chance for me to test myself against the current best in Millennium, it’s a chance for me to get my hands on Britty again after what happened at Deep-Six, and it’s a chance for me to set about dimming Luna’s star. Come the end of the match though, whether I’m the sole remaining member of my team, or whether one or both of my partners survive until the end as well, the outcome will be the same as it has been so often during my time so far in Millennium: Selina über alles.
Selina then stares confidently into the camera lens, as the video comes to an end.
Singles Match
Katie Montes VS Yona Blake
Katie's suspicion was actually justified, as the first part of the match saw Yona trying to grab her booty at any given chance, with the Tennessean always finding a way to escape. Things started getting serious when Katie tried to end this early surprising the she-wolf with a backslide. Black kicked out but before she could get up, she found herself once again with her shoulders down after Montes rolled her over with La Magistral. The two near falls woke up the Werewolf of London, who finally started taking things more seriously and landed a few kicks before going for the Bullwolf a running snapmare driver into the turnbuckle. Katie helped herself up with the ropes, leaning against the corner and finding herself on the collision path with Yona's knees as she went with her Unprettier. But when Yona went for a moonsault, she found nothing but the canvas as the former first ever Queen Of Roses rolled out of the way. Katie had her opportunity to shine now, and she wasn't going to miss it. A few well aimed kick to the ribs and a chestblower took the wind out of Yona's chest and gave Montes another near fall. Yona turned things around countering a suplex attempt with one of her own, catching the opponent with a dropkick as soon as she was back on her feet. The impact sent Katie through the ropes and outside the ring; showing no fear at all, Yona delivered a Wolfie Special, a springboard shooting star press to the outside. And this time, the High risk move paid off, granting her the praise of the Charlotte fans. The match was now back in the ring, with Yona missing a Roundhouse Kick and Katie taking her down with a leg sweep and and following up with a standing moonsault. From then on, it was all Katie, once again impressive when given room to unleash her high-flying techniques. After getting close to the win with a springboard ddt, Montes knew she had the opponent right where she wanted. With a smile on her face, she waited for the moment when Yona was starting to get on her feet to plant her face first with the Chaos Drive, getting her second win in Millennium. WINNER: Katie Montes BY: Pinfall (Chaos Drive), 7:34 |
Jared Idol: "Great win for Katie tonight!"
Bea Torres: "And she kept her booty safe from Yona!"
Jared Idol: "Aye. But the most important thing here is the old Montes seems to be back. And everyone in the roster should keep their eyes on her."
The cameras cut backstage to Bree who is with her Cousin Luna. Bree dressing in her usual ring gear, as Luna beside her carrying the Lockdown Championship. Luna’s style a little more parisian, with a pair of heeled boots on to make her just a little shorter than her sister.
Luna Smith:
So you shouldn’t lose tonight against Kate Steele. I beat her already in her own little submission thing. Clearly not as good as the 15 Minutes of Stardom but we’ve seen how Kate carries herself...obvi not so creative.
Bree Smith:
Me and Teegs ARE. I came so close, SO CLOSE to winning last week.
Bree clenches her fists tightly as recalls the match last week as she almost had Levi set up for the finisher. Luna is looking at her phone but lightly grasps Bree’s shoulder to get her attention.
Luna Smith:
Go for her arm. It worked for me.
Bree Smith:
Teagan’s better at submissions. I could tackle Teddy if he tried to break up the sub-
Luna Smith:
What!?
Luna Smith:
Selina telling people that SHE’s going to dim my star? Who is she?
Luna says quite offended by the video that aired earlier. She whips off her shades in aggravated fury.
Luna Smith:
I’m absolutely going to eliminate her tonight. Not that I wasn’t going to do that already, to show people she’s not worth two minutes let alone 15 minutes of my title time but now it’s to show her that I am Der...whatever she said I wasn’t.
BEAT.
Luna Smith:
I have to go see Britty and Nessa STAT. This walking series of circles WILL be pinned or tap out just like Kate Steele did. She needs to be reminded why I am the Star of the Night.
And Luna huffs, the sound of her boots stomping and reverberate off the walls of the empty hallway as she goes to find her partners for the evening. This leaves Bree looking on a bit lost for words before looking at her phone and pumps her fist.
Bree Smith:
YES, Teegs. Oreos will be a sweet treat when we win tonight.
As Bree walks off rather chipper her tag partner thoughtfully stopped off and picked up Bree a small snack pack of oreos.
Tag Team Match
Non Tournament
The BreeTee Committee VS Kate Steele & Teddy Steele
The BreeTee Committee may be out of the tournament for the tag team titles, but after looking impressive in both their matches, they wanted to prove their worth once again to the Millennium fans, and end this vicious circle of bad luck they ended up in. Black Sexy Teddy started the match for his team, taking on Teagan Gallagher. And Katie's husband brought his usual swag to the contest, walking in front of his opponent and dropping some hot lyrics in her face. Far from impressed, Teagan kicked him in the stomach and dropped him down with a snap ddt. Learning the lesson, Teddy started taking this more seriously, blocking a fisherman suplex attempt and breaking free after a few punches to the side. He then lifted her up and dropped her on his knee with something midway between a rib breaker and a gut buster, far from perfect in its execution but equally effective. Steele kept everything under control, even taking some shortcuts when needed, like when he raked her eyes as soon as the young girl was building some momentum. Keeping her in a side headlock, he dragged Teeg in his corner, tagging his wife and, as soon as she climbed on the top rope, he dropped her down with a powerslam, and Kate jumped off with a senton. The former Lockdown Champion was on fire, almost taking Teagan's head off with a spinning heel kick. After resisting numerous pinfall attempts, one of which barely escaped by resting her foot on the ropes after the Punk Driver, Teegs finally made the tag. Bree's raw power was a real game changer as she easily disposed of the Siren. After four consecutive backbreakers, the former powerlifter tossed the opponent away with a fallaway slam. When he went to pick her up, Kate caught her with a jawbreaker and reached for her corner, tagging Teddy back in. The rapper tried to turn the momentum back in his team's favor, and he even pinned Luna's cousin after a double foot stomp following a Cuddling Moment, which is nothing as sweet as the name would suggest, but it was, actually, a splash in the corner, although only for two seconds. But the blind girl eventually overpowered him, just like she did with his wife earlier. The Power Of Bree was fully displayed when she hit the three German suplexes. Kate broke the pinfall attempt and saved the match. On top of that, she stomped the opponent's head for as long as it took the referee to separate them. The move bought her husband some valuable time. Time he used to crawl to his corner and tag her back in, while Bree did the same. And with Teegs and Kate back into the ring, the pace of the match picked up significantly. After a quick exchange, Kate connected with a single knee facebreaker, but she couldn't capitalize as Teagan rolled under the bottom rope laying on the apron. Steele went to pick her up to drag her back in the ring and the two traded blows with the ropes standing between them. Gallagher took advantage of the situation dropping down from the apron and driving the opponent over the ropes. With the opponent stunned, Teegs climbed the turnbuckle and received a tag from Bree before diving on Kate with a crossbody block, rolling through and picking her up in one fluid motion to catapult her with an exploder suplex right into Bree's Codebreaker. As she went for the cover, her partner made sure Teddy couldn't break the pinfall, and The BreeTee Committee got their first win. WINNERS: The BreeTee Committee BY: Pinfall (WHOOPAH), 11:37 |
Bea Torres: "YESSSS!"
Jared Idol: "After two impressive performance, here comes the first win for Bree and Teegs."
Bea Torres: "Shame this wasn't for the tournament."
Jared Idol: "They didn't qualify for the title match at the next PPV, but it's still a huge step forward in the division ranks"
Cutting backstage, in Gianluigi Vaccaro’s office we see her looking at something on a tablet before knocking can be heard.
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
Come on in...
Entering the room is Drakkon of the NEW World. Drakkon has a smile ear to ear as he looks at the GM.
Drakkon:
You summoned me Mr. Vaccaro?
Gianluigi puts the tablet down and locks the screen
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
Don't play cute with me Drakkon. You know why I called you to my office.
Drakkon:
I'm afraid I don't. Please, enlighten me.
Gian gets upset and reopens the tablet showing footage from last week on security cameras of TMNT getting assaulted by unknown assailants. The faces are obscure but men of varying heights can be seen for sure.
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
Last week there was a scheduled tournament match and someone, or something, beat up and knocked out one of our premier Tag teams for it!
He gets up from her desk and walks up to Drakkon, who still is smiling like he won the key to the city.
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
And I have talked with all potential suspects. From Jetpack, to High Score Heroes , and now I'm onto you Drakkon. You and your goonies, have everything to gain from them being taken out don't you? Your groups done nothing but lose. And now your big.... Whatever he is. Is around and now you think your big shots don't you?
Drakkon:
Well yes we did lose. A lot. But I have said that, us losing was all a big ruse Mr Vaccaro. Besides. Why would we waste our time on that, pitiful team that suffered unfortunate circumstances? We had proven our capabilities earlier that evening, no?
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
I mean, what your band of misfits have done since day one have done nothing but lose to everybody until last week when, Britney Kane helped your midget skeleton win over Tiffany.
Drakkon walks around the room with Gian not taking her eyes off the Norwegian
Drakkon:
A little unexpected assistance but acceptable nonetheless. But Mr. Vaccaro, if we have proven ourselves earlier in that evening, why would we want to waste our time with a duo who pride their name off a cartoon? We of the NEW World are better than that! And we want to prove it again...
Drakkon snaps his fingers and entering the room are ACID, Vengeance, and Deadman
Drakkon:
And we say, out with the old. IN with the NEW...
Drakkon walks back up to Gian.
Drakkon:
Allow us to take the mantle of responsibility that those two were careless of. We will not be so hasty. Should you give us this chance, you need not regret your choice.
Gian scoffed at that remark
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
I don't hold many regrets. You best not be one of them. You're off the hook... Only because with TMNT out of commission I need a team to fill that void. And as much as I'd hate to admit it, your group is the only one of active Millennium teams not in the tournament. So your in. Now get out.
The NEW World make their way out of the office
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
And Drakkon. If I find out your group was responsible for ruining my tournament plans? You will be the one regretting you ever stayed here.
Drakkon turned and smiled at Gian before walking out the door.
Singles Match
Levi w/ Olivia Wythe VS Knox
Accompanied by her tag team partner, Levi was making her debut in single competition against the enigmatic Knox, the man who, for weeks, had been hijacking the signal inserting messages on the feed of the show. The Hackerman was accompanied to the ring by his manager/step sister Tyler Bennett who didn’t seem to be too thrilled of being there. As the match started, Knox immediately went for a spinning heel kick, barely dodged by Levi who sidestepped out of the way. Having avoided disaster, the 21 years old approached the Nerd with extreme cautiousness, using her speed and dodging skills to stay away from his dangerous kicks. And her strategy was paying off, keeping her away from Knox’ educated feet and allowing her to connect with some kicks of her own. As long as she could maintain a quick pace, things were looking good for the Baby K, who confirmed all the good things she shown in her tag match one week ago delighting the fans with a spectacular tilt-a-whirl ddt. Knox rolled out of the ring to refocus, but nowhere was safe tonight with Levi, who didn't think twice before diving between the second and third rope connecting the KND. Levi rolled him back on the ring and climbed to the top rope, waiting for Knox to stand up before leaping with a flying crossbody, hooking the leg for a two count. Wythe kept encouraging her tag partner, a completely different approach from the one Tyler was having, looking at her brother's match passively, almost bored. Finally Knox was able to catch the quick opponent with a right jab to the jaw, the first of a quick series that knocked the young girl down. Taking a quick run to the ropes, Knox dropped his leg on Levi, trying for a cover but only getting a two count. Methodical in his attacks, the Hackerman slowed down the pace of the match, limiting Levi's offense and keeping her grounded, showing a good mat wrestling background. Transitioning from a hold to another, he was now standing up next to Levi, holding her in a side headlock, flipping her over and kicking her between the shoulder blades. Once again he hit the ropes, going for a shining wizard that Levi ducked and turned into a pinning predicament for another near fall. Both competitors jumped back on their feet, and the Little Boybee surprises the opponent with a standing dropkick. Levi was back in control, getting another near fall after her Pinky And The Brainbuster. Things turned for the worst for the young rookie when Knox reversed the Irish whip, sending her in the corner and following up with a high knee. Not satisfied, he drove his shoulder in her midsection a couple of times, before sitting her on the top of the corner and connecting with a superplex. The lateral press didn't give him the win, as Levi was able to raise her shoulder at the last moment. But she couldn't do the same a minute later when Knox repeated the same snapmare/kick to the back/shining wizard combination. This time the #000000 Out connected, and Knox got the win in his debut match. WINNER: Knox BY: Pinfall (#000000 Out), 7:04 |
Bea Torres: "What the hell? The oddball won?"
Jared Idol: "Bea!!"
Bea Torres: "What? Look at him, he's a weirdo!"
Jared Idol: "Maybe. But he can get the job done."
During the break we’re treated to the events that proceeded Sero vs Saki last show.
‘The arena lights go out, when they come back on, Sephora stands behind Saki with a cattleprod in hand, she whips it over the back of the extreme champions head and once she’s down, she shoves the prod into the ribs of Saki. Sephora lets off a long shock that causes her body to jolt and jerk about, Sephora then slides out of the ring and drags Saki’s body out, slinging her over her shoulder, she carries up her up the ramp.
When Sephora reaches the stage, she lifts the prone body of Saki and tosses her off the stage, through the production cables and to the concrete floor, as security rush out to force Sephora back, several bleeps block out the threats she s screaming at both them and Saki’
As the footage stops we return to the ring where there is a single spotlight and Saki stands, belt in hand. The Singapore Mauler looks up at the camera with a startling gaze, one eye completely black while the other is as bright as always. Her makeup is normal on that same bright side, but on the dark one her lips are black and the lipstick trails off along her cheek. Her face even seems paler, if that’s even possible. Mic in hand she stares off at the crowd, though clearly looking at someone, or something else. Despite the mic held up, she says nothing, only giving little giggles between moments of emotionlessness. Finally, she speaks, her voice soft, her words slow...
Saki:
Coward strikes, doo doo doo doo doo doo
Cattle prod, doo doo doo doo doo doo
Off the stage, doo doo doo doo doo doo
Snowball grows, doo doo doo doo doo doo
Coming for you, doo doo doo doo doo doo
Chew your flesh, doo doo doo doo doo doo
Bleed your dry, doo doo doo doo doo doo
Playtime is nigh, doo doo doo doo doo doo
Nowhere to hide, doo doo doo doo doo doo
The Singapore born brawler smiles, black good dripping from her lips down her button up shirt.
Saki:
S to the A, K and I, gonna swat the gadfly...
The lights go out and flicker back on, she’s gone and all that’s left in her spot is a puddle of black goo in the middle of the ring. Floating in it is a picture of Sephora.
First Blood Triple Threat Match
Dane Archer VS Sean Libby VS Saki
It didn't take any particular agreement behind closed doors for Saki and Libby to put their differences aside and coordinate their attacks on the big mercenary. But their kicks, aimed to his tree sized legs didn't seem to shake Dane too much. Actually, the impression was that he let them unleash this initial flurry of offense before knocking them both down with a double clothesline. Almost smiling, he grabbed the champion by her tights and literally tossed her over the top rope and outside the ring. The mismatch as he took it one on one to Libby was almost embarrassing. No matter how hard he tried to take down the opponent, Archer was barely feeling the effects of his attacks. And when Sean went for a sling blade, after ducking a clothesline, Dane caught him and turned the move in a swinging side slam that left him laying on the mat. Dane simply mounted on top of him and started raining down punches to the face. Sean tried to protect himself raising his arms, knowing that one blow of that huge right hand could have costed him the match. With a crazed look in her eyes, some could argue that that's her standard setting, Saki returned to the ring with a chair in hand and slammed it across Dane's huge back. The Mercenary of Millennium felt the blow arching his back and stopping brutalizing Sean. A second shot, accompanied by a groan of pain, bent the metal chair but that didn't stop the Empire Extreme Champion from swinging it a third time. Dane turned back with an enraged look on his face. Saki dropped the chair and ducked the right hook, hitting the ropes and taking him to his knee with a low dropkick. After kicking the chair to move it on the designed spot, Saki dropped Big Dane on it with a springboard Tornado DDT. The referee immediately went to check if the move busted Dane open, but his thick skin saved him this time. Saki took her attention back to Libbeh, who came out victorious from the brawl they engaged into and sent the champion in the corner, following up with a Yakuza Kick. Archer was right behind him grabbing his arm and throwing him all the way across the ring, chest first to the opposite corner. Dane was now making Saki pay for the chair shots with shoulder tackles to the ribs, glancing every now and then at Libby, who was only now starting to get on his knees. Archer picked Saki up and launched her against the corner with a buckle bomb, turning then toward Libby and seeing him resting against the ropes. Charging at full speed, Dane fell right into the Irishman trap, as Sean took him down with a drop-toe hold. What he didn't realize was that the protective pad on the middle turnbuckle had been removed. And that was enough to cut him over the eyebrow. Dane Archer was eliminated. The fight between Saki and Libby couldn't be contained between the ropes. Soon enough they found themselves battling it outside where they both could use the environment to inflict more damage. Nothing was off limits, not even the announcer's table that got broken in half by Libbeh's Irishsault, performed from the top of the barricade separating the fans from the ringside area. But in the end, it was Saki coming up victorious when, after a piledriver, she reached under the ring and emerged with a screwdriver, carving Sean's forehead and ending the match. WINNER: Saki BY: Screwdriver to the forehead, (10:17) |
Jared Idol: "Well, this was something"
Bea Torres: "Is it over?"
Jared Idol: "Aye, you can watch now."
Bea Torres: "Saki is crazy!"
Jared Idol: "I'm actually surprised she didn't lick the screwdriver cle.. OUCH!"
Bea Torres: "I'm gonna hit you harder next time!"
June Oikawa steps to the forefront as the picture comes to life on the screen. There’s a small smile on the voice of the Happy Few’s face. The camera pans to June’s left. A few feet away, NEON sits atop a wooden production crate. The camera then pans to June’s right. OMI is standing nearby. Stoicism and a hint of annoyance rests on her face. The camera zooms out a little so that all three women are in focus. Afterwards, NEON begins speaking in her native language. June nods her head.
June Oikawa:
Ms. NEON says that the sport of professional wrestling is all about perception. How you perceive your opponent’s skill level. How your opponent perceives your talent. How the fans and the decision makers perceive your ability to thrive in the company.
The cracking of NEON’s knuckles can be heard before she begins to talk once more.
June Oikawa:
I’m sure that everyone watching had a certain perception about the Happy Few. NEON says that a major of you at home and in the back saw the Happy Few as nothing more than dime-store tough-talkers. You know, the type that simply blow hot air, but always fail to deliver. The type that is all hype…
A smile comes to June’s face as NEON speaks a bit more.
June Oikawa:
But NEON says that you were all proven wrong. Despite how much fire Christopher was able to muster during the match, he couldn’t stop NEON or OMI. No matter how much “heart” Reeves tried to exhibit, she was still broken down and picked apart like a set of Mega Blocks. And SERO? Oh—he dominated his match.
NEON laughs as she turns her head in OMI’s direction. The Tiny Dragon says something to her sister. Whatever it is, it causes OMI to nod her head. NEON then returns her attention to June. She speaks a bit more before looking at the camera.
June Oikawa:
NEON says that perceptions are beliefs. They are attitudes. They are feelings. They are impressions. However, sometimes they are false. And therein lies the problem. Perceptions don’t always equate to reality. And when you begin to view those false notions as such? That’s when you fall.
NEON snaps her fingers before she talking.
June Oikawa:
And speaking of which, NEON is curious as to how you all will approach the Happy Few, now that you’re aware that they don’t match up to your expectations. Will you puff yourself in futile hopes of intimidating the Happy Few? Will you lie to yourself like Melissa and try to question that OMI, NEON , and SERO’s relevance? Or will you resort to a new, atrocious tactic?
Both NEON and OMI shake their heads.
June Oikawa:
Such foolishness. Such a waste of time.
This time, June shakes her head.
June Oikawa:
Wouldn’t it be easier to accept the truth that’s before you? The reality that the Happy Few are the real deal The reality that the Happy Few aren’t going any damn where. And that the Happy Few will rise to the top.
NEON and OMI both give satisfied nods.
June Oikawa:
That would certainly be the easiest path.
The camera rests on a shot of OMI, NEON and Ms. Oikawa for a moment before it completely fades to black.
Tag Team Match
Tournament, Group A
Jetpack VS N. E. W. World
With a win in tonight’s match, Jetpack would secure themselves the spot in the title match at Imperium. Deadman and Vengence of the N. E. W. World were obviously out here to crash their plans, and they didn’t need anyone’s permission or a damn bell to ring before taking their shot at the former two-time IYHWF tag team champions. The huge man punched Jet right on the jaw, sending him against the ropes and lifting him over his head in a gorilla press position, tossing him out of the ring without many compliments. Blanchard landed awkwardly on his shoulder on the hard floor outside, unable to do anything to save his partner from being powerbombed by Deadman right on Vengence’s knees. The huge member of the N. E. W. World finally left the ring and match could officially start with the high flyer of the team trying to capitalize on the damage done, but only getting a two count. Vengence and his partner were doing a great job at keeping Kaplan isolated, following to the letter the orders Drakkon was shouting them. Quick tags, a lot of combined moves using the overwhelming strength of Deadman in synergy with the high flying attacks of Vengence. Penny barely kicked out from the Deathbed, an assisted Tombstone Piledriver, but it was clear that the blonde girl desperately needed a break, after having been at the mercy of the N. E. W. World for more than five minutes now. And her partner knew it as well, asking the fans to support Pen Pen in this moment of extreme difficulty. And the crowd response was not long in coming, loud and clear “Jetpack” chants filling the Arena. And the love of from the fans pushed Penny to go that extra mile, digging down deep and finding the strength to block a right hand from Vengence and fight back. The Flying Bones reversed her Irish whip and sent Penny against the ropes, going for a clothesline that the the girl from West Newbury ducked, before coming back with a sling blade. She crawled to the corner where Jet was dying for the tag, and she was inches away from touching his hand when Vengence grabbed her leg and dragged her back in the middle of the ring. He picked her up and drove his knee in her mid section, following with a codebreaker for another two count. Eventually Penny made the tag after slipping away from Deadman's suplex and hitting him with a dropkick to the back, sending him crashing against his own partner, knocking him off the apron. The crowd erupted in cheers as Jett Blanchard entered the ring, bringing his athleticism and kicking the match into high gear. While the referee was pleading his case to Deadman, trying to make him understand that when he bumped against his partner a tag was indeed made and he should leave the ring, Jet didn't seem to mind, bringing the fight to both opponents. A forearm shot to Vengence, a kick to the ribcage of the bigman, a headbutt to the Swedish and a jumping knee to the seven foot behemoth. He even helped the referee in his task sending the giant over the top rope with a dropkick, before focusing on the legal opponent. While the male member of Jetpack was taking care of Vengence, OMI and NEON of the Happy Few made their appearance on the stage and slowly walked down the ramp, just in time to see Blanchard getting a near fall after a springboard moonsault. Seeing the two Japanese wrestlers standing at ringside obviously caught Jet's attention, distracting him for as long as it took Vengence to surprise him with an Arm DDT targeting the arm he landed on before the match even started. Clutching his shoulder, Jet reached his corner and made the tag to Penny who rushed inside the ring to prevent Vengeance from making the tag, dropping Deadman off the apron. Keeping their eyes on OMI and NEON, Penny and Jet showed everyone their chemistry built in three successful years as a tag team, hitting Vengeance with some of their signature moves, almost as if they wanted to send a clear message to the Happy Few. Deadman saved the match for his team when Penny made the cover after the Bam!, a chopblock/bulldog combination. But he only delayed the inevitable end that came a couple of minutes later when, after yet another tag, the Jetpack hit the Lift Kit (a springboard lariat from Jet followed by Penny's spinning elbow drop), obtaining her second win and a pass for the Tag Team Title match at Imperium. WINNERS: Jetpack BY: Pinfall (Lift Kit) , 12:46 |
Jared Idol: "And Jetpack is the first team to qualify for the fatal 4 way!"
Bea Torres: "Ha! Did you have any doubt?"
Jared Idol: "You can never be sure of anything in this business."
Bea Torres: "Pffft I'm sure Jetpack are going to be the first Tag Team Champion... Wanna bet?"
Jared Idol: "I'm not a betting man."
Bea Torres: "Chicken."
Christopher Kane was a man with a purpose tonight as he walked through the halls of Spectrum Center looking for someone in particular. He tapped his groin to ensure the cup was in place once again this week, not wanted to take any chances with anyone after being low blowed in his last three appearances in a wrestling ring or show. Finally, after another moment of searching, he found who he had been looking for.
CHRISTOPHER KANE:
Do you know how hard you are to find when you and your crew aren’t looking to meme me to death?
On the opposing side of Christopher Kane was June Oikawa, standing next to her client, SERO. SERO looked as if he didn’t notice Kane until June decided it was time for them to encounter the man. When SERO turned, he greeted Chris with a smile that dripped with teasing malice. June stepped between, knowing that leaving them in so close a proximity would only start a fight.
JUNE OIKAWA:
How can we help you today, Mr. Kane?
SERO spoke something in Japanese, to which June nodded her head to the side--a motion of annoyance.
JUNE OIKAWA:
SERO said that he hopes you took everyone’s advice well about cups.
Kane glanced at SERO with annoyance before putting his gaze back to June. He again tapped himself to triple check that a cup was securely placed.
CHRISTOPHER KANE:
Oh you can bet your bottom dollar I have a cup on right now. Between who you represent and another person, my dick has been beaten more than piss drinkers on social media. My Japanese is rusty, so I’ll apologize to you for having to continue to translate.
Christopher turned his attention back to SERO wishing he did remember his Japanese a little bit better.
CHRISTOPHER KANE:
So you and your friends continue to low blow me because of the “Destroy Dick December” meme? I honestly expected just a little bit more out of you guys. Like how I found a good amount of success in your home country and you’re a little miffed about it. But, as usually, it’s some goofy ass reason.
SERO merely snickered at Chris’ accusations.
SERO:
いいえ、それはちょうど面白かったです。
June nodded at what SERO said, readying herself to translate.
JUNE OIKAWA:
He says that it was just funny to them.
SERO continued on while relaxing on the nearby wall.
JUNE OIKAWA:
“You won one thing in Japan. Don’t flatter yourself. The reason why the Happy Few decided to inflict harm upon you and yours is for a few reasons. Some of which are none of your business.”
JUNE OIKAWA:
“The reason that he needs to understand is that it’s because of positioning. What better way to debut than to attack someone at the head of the pack? What better way to ensure that people know what the Happy Few’s objections are but than to see the devastation of anyone and everyone who believes themselves to be above.”
SERO closed the gap between Kane and himself, dropping his smile in favor of a hardened scowl.
JUNE OIKAWA:
“And nothing will ever stop until the Happy Few have taken everything that this company has to offer.”
JUNE OIKAWA:
“Starting with you.”
Christopher didn’t back down once SERO got closer to him. Instead, it only made Kane stand taller in the face of his tormentor.
CHRISTOPHER KANE:
So, let me get this straight, you came after me because you think I’m head of the pack? I hold no championship here. I’m not the one with the name on the marquee every night. You’d be better off going after someone like my sister or Nessa Wall or anyone who has gold to make that impact.
Christopher shook his head.
CHRISTOPHER KANE:
If you haven’t noticed, I’m not really above anyone in this company. I’m firmly entrenched as just a guy and I’ll always just be a guy as long as Grace van Beek is in charge. Taking me out of the game is your big master plan here? I’m a blip on the radar, SERO, taking me out is no different than fouling out the fifth leading scorer on the basketball team. Yeah, it hurts but it’s not your top guy.
Now a shrug follows.
CHRISTOPHER KANE:
However, if you’re looking to do this anyways, despite me not being the top guy here in Millennium that you think I am, bring it on. I always welcome a war against someone and hopefully your shoulder can hold up.
JUNE OIKAWA:
He’s--
SERO put up his hand, refraining from any other statement as he began to walk away.
JUNE OIKAWA:
SERO, wait!
SERO only let one more statement fly out before he left the area.
JUNE OIKAWA:
…
She paused before turning to Christopher Kane.
JUNE OIKAWA:
He says that he thinks that he’ll just have to put you down permanently. Because…
JUNE OIKAWA:
Because you sound miserable.
With a guilty nod, June walked away from Chris Kane, leaving him to his lonesome. Christopher stood there watching both of them walk away.
CHRISTOPHER KANE:
Yeah…sound miserable.
He turns the other way and goes back to his own business.
Singles Match
Jacob Figgins VS Rayven Hardy
The fan favorite, Rayven Hardy was prepared to wrestle her second match on her return run as Jacob Figgins eyed her from afar across the ring. The referee Emi Yamamoto was determined to keep this one clean, knowing how brutal Jacob could be, and how much the fans enjoyed seeing Rayven back in the ring. She told both competitors to start the match and Jacob wasted no time, taking Rayven's head clean off with a clothesline. Figgins put the boots to the 'San Fran Miracle' as the fans showered him with boos. The veteran was able to block out those jeers as he maintained a ferocity on the 21 year old. Jacob wrapped Hardy up in numerous submissions, the final one being a boston crab that allowed Hardy to crawl to and clutch on the bottom rope. Emi instructed Figgins to break the hold, but the crafty veteran knew he had a few extra seconds and broke it when Yamamoto reached the count of four. From here, it remained all Figgins who kept the high flying Hardy grounded, working on her formerly injured leg. After he locked her in a single leg lock and failed to gain the victory, he stood up and shouted at her to 'just give up!' before stomping her a few more times. Rayven was taking a beating and Emi looked concerned, but she knew she had a job to do. Figgins nearly put her away after hitting a knee drop with theatrics, but Rayven showed her tenacity by kicking out just before the three count. Figgins now stood up and looked at the referee, placing all of the blame on Yamamoto. Emi assured him that it was only a two count. With Figgins distracted, Hardy climbed up to a knee and rolled him up, looking to capitalize on the moment of distraction. Figgins kicked out and popped up with his face red in anger. As Rayven stood up slowly, Figgins went for another brutal clothesline but Rayven ducked it and hit the ropes. She connected with a flying spin kick off the rebound which brought the fans back to their feets. They could feel the momentum shifting! Jacob popped back up and was taken down this time by a spinning headscissors. Rayven was feeling it! The cheers soon turned to boos as the fans noticed Jason Hawk walking slowly down towards the ring. Rayven was perched atop the turnbuckle, ready to go for a Skittle Star Press when she saw Hawk hop onto the ring apron. Hawk was arguing with Emi, who allowed herself to be distracted. Rayven climbed down and ran over to check on the altercation between Hawk and the distracted referee. This gave Figgins a chance to make it to his feet. He snuck up behind Rayven and connected with The Moonshine Delirium. As Rayven was driven into the mat hard, Jason hopped off the apron and told Emi to 'do her job'. Jacob arrogantly covered Hardy as Emi turned around. She dropped in position and began counting but then pointed out Rayven's foot was on the ropes! Figgins couldn't believe it! It was now Figgins again arguing with the referee as Rayven had some time to recover. She shouted Jacob's name who turned to face her. She threw a kick in his direction but he caught it saying 'not so fast', but Rayven then leapt into the air and connected with an enziguri kick that dropped Figgins. Rayven saw her opportunity and looked to the turnbuckle. With the fans cheering her on, Hardy scaled to the top and jumped off, this time connecting with her famed Skittle Star Press! She hooked the leg and picked up the three count and the victory. WINNER: Rayven Hardy BY: Pinfall (Skittle Star Press), 10:30 |
Bea Torres: "Rayven for the win!"
Jared Idol: "And great call by Emi, catching that foot on the rope!"
Bea Torres: "Shows that last week's mishap was just an unfortunate event."
Jared Idol: "It was a tough call, sure. Maybe the pressure of the Millennium debut played tricks on her."
As 'Fly' by Nicki Minaj begins playing, Jacob Figgins rolls out of the ring to catch his breath. Jason Hawk slides into the ring and gets in the face of Emi Yamamoto as Rayven Hardy is celebrating by posing on the turnbuckle. Hawk is all up in the face of Yamamoto, who explains that she was doing her job to the best of her abilities. Rayven finally sees the confrontation and hops off the turnbuckle and hurries over to stand in between Hawk and Yamamoto. Hawk then shoves Rayven to the mat as the fans boo aggressively.
Hardy pops back to her feet and makes a move towards Hawk but Yamamoto grabs her around the waist and pulls her back, telling her that 'it's not worth it, you just wrestled.' Hawk is mostly devoid of emotion as he exits the ring. He walks backwards up the entranceway and tells Rayven to 'listen to your little ref buddy', warning her that a move against him could be career ending this time. The scene slowly fades as Rayven is leaning over the top rope, staring at a retreating Hawk as he makes his way backstage.
The cameras go backstage to Chloe Collins spotting Jennifer Yang and her manager/fiance Ho Wei Shen just as they reach their locker room. Noticing Chloe and the crew, Jennifer’s face breaks into a warm smile and she gives a little wave.
Jennifer Yang
Hi Chloe!
Chloe Collins
Hello, Jennifer! Can I have a bit of your ti—
But Chloe gets cut off as Wei Shen steps up to block Jennifer from view with a stern look. This startles Chloe while Jennifer averts her gaze, pursing her lips. Before Chloe can say anything else, Wei Shen intercepts.
Ho Wei Shen
This isn’t a good time, I’m afraid. Jennifer needs to prepare for tonight’s main event. But I’m available for a quick comment or two.
Chloe blinks a couple times, unsure. Jennifer looks slightly defeated but bites her tongue.
Chloe Collins
Oh um… Okay, great!
He forces a tight smile with a curt nod as he ushers Jennifer into the room. The former champion doesn’t argue, instead just letting out an inaudible sigh before entering. He then closes the door before turning back to Chloe.
Ho Wei Shen
So Ms Collins, what is your first question?
Keeping her composure, Chloe leans the mic towards Wei.
Chloe Collins
Ok, well, tonight is a big match for Jennifer as she teams up with Tiffany Tompkins and Selina Metzger in a 6-person elimination tag match against the champions of Millennium. Risk is high but we all know that this isn’t unfamiliar to Jenni, right?
He cuts in, sounding a tad more impatient than before.
Ho Wei Shen
No.
This makes her frown a little, caught mid-thought. But she continues without breaking her stride.
Chloe Collins
Yet you weren’t too happy with it when it was first announced. You tweeted how Jennifer should be getting her rematch with Nessa Wall instead. And GM Gianluigi replied that she could anytime. Has there been any further conversation about it since? Perhaps a meeting offline?
At this point, Wei is looking super irritated with the questions.
Ho Wei Shen
No, there has not.
Chloe waits politely for Wei to continue but he doesn’t, not even offering a bit of elaboration. Instead, he just locks her with a stern gaze. Chloe takes her cue to prod further.
Chloe Collins
Why not?
Wei folds his arms across the chest.
Ho Wei Shen
Because Jennifer refuses to use the rematch clause without earning the opportunity first.
Chloe Collins
Meaning?
Ho Wei Shen
I was about to schedule a meeting with Gian to forget this 6-person elimination nonsense and book the rematch tonight instead. Jennifer beat Tiffany last time but she didn’t need to. Just like how she doesn’t need to get a win tonight. She has already proven herself so what she actually needs is the rematch with Nessa. What more is there to do?
It’s a rhetorical question of course and he continues without missing a beat while the backstage correspondent listens patiently.
Ho Wei Shen
But Jennifer stopped me. She didn’t want me to ask for her to be taken out of the elimination tag. She wants to stay and wrestle in the match she’s been booked in. She wants to earn her spot as challenger to the Millennium championship, the very same title she’s carried for more than 100 days. And she’s quite set on that so I have no choice but to respect her request. I will however be watching tonight very closely. Nessa is extremely fortunate that she gets to hold onto the championship one more week.
Chloe Collins
Well I think that’s quite admirable of Jennifer! Great work ethic! She’s a true role model to the fans, especially young women around the world.
Wei gives a curt nod, the annoyed look still etched in his features.
Ho Wei Shen
She is. Any more questions?
Chloe Collins
Just one last one. When would it be a good time to interview Jenni? It would be great to hear from her herself about all this. Plus, I wasn’t expecting it. We’ve seen how you pushed her to doing big matches every week when she was champion so I thought you would be doing the same now.
Wei lets out a sigh.
Ho Wei Shen
As her manager, I know best what opportunities she should be taking and when she should be capitalizing on them. But we are partners too and she really wants this so I will step aside for now. We’ll see how it goes.
He glances down on his wristwatch.
Ho Wei Shen
And I’m afraid time’s up. Nice talking to you, Ms Collins.
He forces a small smile before turning for the locker room where Jennifer is inside.
Chloe Collins
Wait! You haven’t given me the answer yet. When can I interview Jenni?
He stops and contemplates, mentally checking Jennifer’s schedule that he no doubt manages too. But he shakes his head and turns back to Chloe who’s looking at him expectantly.
Ho Wei Shen
Hmm let me get back to you on that. Need to… shift things around perhaps.
Chloe Collins
Oh okay, sure! Here’s my name card. Just in case you don’t have it already.
Chloe chuckles as she offers the name card. With a tight smile, Wei merely grunts in response before taking the card and entering the locker room behind him. The scene cuts away.
Tag Team Match
Tournament, Group B
Melissa Reeves & Christopher Kane VS Zooey West-Jaa & Stone Hendrix
Ladies first. The match began with Melissa and Zooey circling each other and locking horns in the middle of the ring. The study phase didn't last long, with Zooey striking first, with a kick to the side. Reeves answered with a forearm shot, and from then the two women started trading blows. The Muay Thay background of West-Jaa gave her a slight advantage she capitalize on with a spinning heel kick. With the former Liberty Champion down, Zooey went to tag her boyfriend. Finally Stone made his debut in Millennium, quickly rushing to Mel and taking her off her feet with a dropkick. After stomping the hell out of her, Hendrix picked her up and connected with an European Uppercut, going for a suplex right after. The initial aggression was paying off for his team, who worked some tag moves and kept Mel away from her corner. And just when Reeves was starting to fight back finally taking Stone down with an exploder suplex following a knee to the guts, Grace van Beek and her security came out and marched to the ring, no music to announce her unusually under the weather entrance. Before Mel could realize it, the four men were surrounding the ring, with Grace waiting at a safety distance. As Mel's eyes were focused on the owner of Millennium, Stone was back on his feet and ready to hit her, but Ryen Riekert entered the ring and knocked him out. The referee immediately called for the bell. WINNERS: Zooey West-Jaa & Stone Hendrix BY: DQ (outside interference), 5:36 |
Zooey and Stone quickly left the ring, who was starting to get crowded. Chris stepped in, standing next to his girlfriend and ready to take on Riekert and his men who were now on the apron, closing in on them.
Grace van Beek:
Remember. You did bring this on you.
On those words, the guards entered the ring, slowly approaching the couple. But they never attacked, they didn't need to. From behind their backs, Dane Archer slid inside the ring and took them both down with a double clothesline. Making sure Melissa was watching him, he picked Chris up and powerbombed him against the turnbuckle.
Mel got back on her feet, clenching her fists and gritting her teeth, ready to fight the mercenary. But before she could make a move, Grace took her down with a chop block on the right knee, the one targeted in the previous weeks and locked her in the Gold Bar. Reeves screamed in pain and instinctively tapped out immediately. But this wasn't a match, and Grace had no reasons to let her go. She kept the hold, twisting and hyperextending her knee for as long as she felt to.
Grace let her go only when the paramedics rushed down to the ring. Shooting one last look of disdain to Reeves, she walked over to Ryen, who handed her a bottle of sanitizer. After washing her hands, with the fans booing as loud as ever, she walked away, while the EMTs carried Mel on the stretcher. A round of applause accompanied her on her way backstage, with Chris walking next to her holding her hand.
Bea Torres: "Someone has to stop her!"
Jared Idol: "She's the boss, who do you think can stop her?"
Bea Torres: "..."
Jared Idol: "Aye, exactly."
Tag Team Match
Non Tournament
Brothers McMillion VS Uncanny Socialites
One of the most anticipated match of the night was finally underway. The Uncanny Socialites against the Brothers McMillion, Kelsey Spencer against her husband Christian Michaels. And it was the married couple who started things off for the respective teams, meeting in the middle of the ring and, after exchanging a smile and a handshake, putting on display the respective technical prowess. Kelsey had the best in this first exchange, wrapping her arms around her husband's head in a side headlock and pushing him against the ropes. CM bounced back and knocked her down with a shoulder tackle, taking another sprint at the ropes, jumping over her and continuing his run. The second time he came back from the ropes, Spencer leapfrogged over him, taking him down with an arm drag the third time he bounced back. Kelsey was controlling the pace, keeping her husband grounded for the first minutes of the match. He had him in a hammerlock when Michaels found her way out of it and turned it into a wristlock. From that position, he took her down with a lariat and dragged her into his corner tagging his brother in. Javen entered the match with a slingshot dropkick, and as soon as Kelsey was back on her feet, he took her down once again with a lariat, and another one for good measure. The pinfall attempt earned him a two count. Finally Kelsey made the tag, after countering a diving double axe handle with a superkick. Becky rushed into the ring and tried to capitalize immediately with a roll up, holding on his thighs offering the fans in the first row a sight that, for better or for worse, they will hardly forget. Javen kicked out and complained to the referee. When the official told him that he didn't see any irregularities, he turned around, showing his partially exposed butt. Becky shrugged, acting innocently as everyone else in the Arena was laughing. After Javen fixed his attire, she went to surprise him with a clothesline, but Javen ducked under it and caught her with a neckbreaker. Using the middle rope as a springboard, he landed on Saint with a moonsault, only getting a count of two. The fans were enjoying the contest, a classic clash of styles between a brawler and an high flyer. Who wasn't enjoying it so much was the referee who had to pay extra attention since both competitors weren't wasting any opportunity to try getting a cheap win over the other. Like when Javen returned the courtesy grabbing her tights during a roll up, or when the referee caught Becky using the middle rope as leverage after a double underhook ddt. When Javen made the tag, things turned back in the McMillion's with the 20 years veteran catching the opponent with a backbreaker that took the wind out of Becky's sails. Saint kicked out and tried to reach her corner, but Christian grabbed her leg, blocking her before she could make the tag. The former Bayou Indy tag champion answered with an Enziguri that sent CM crashing outside, and finally reached Kelsey's hand. The Blue Hurricane took a short run on the apron before diving on her husband with a dropkick that sent him against the barricade. Amongst the fans patting his shoulder and encouraging him, Christian noticed a man with a thick beard and a hat smirking over him. It was their friend Duke Andrews, seemingly intentioned to pour his cold beer on the elder of the McMillion's head, like he promised he would have done on twitter a few days ago. CM pushed himself off the barricade and ran straight into his wife's arms, before being tossed over her head with a belly to belly suplex. Kelsey rolled him back in the ring, avoiding the count out and going for the cover, but Christian managed to lift his shoulder. The competitive spirit and desire to prevail made them put aside, at least for this moment their personal feelings and the married couple was leaving it all in the ring, not holding anything back as they were trading forearms in the middle of the ring. That until CM blocked her punch and yelled “SUPLEX WAR!” in her face. He surprised her with a middle kick and a snap suplex. Kelsey quickly got back on her feet and quickly moved behind her husband's back, connecting a first German and keeping the waist hold for a second one. A third attempt was blocked by Christian, who broke free with an elbow to the jaw and followed with a Saito Suplex. The fans were loving the suplex war, a playful tradition husband and wife started at home and brought into this match tonight. After a lot of counters, and a beautiful northern lights suplex from CM, Kelsey won the exchange with an exploder suplex. Noticing that her husband was struggling to get back on his feet, she quickly tagged her partner in, putting the exclamation point on this match with the Socialite Sandwich. WINNERS: Uncanny Socialites BY: Pinfall (Socialite Sandwich), 14:55 |
Jared Idol: "What a match!"
Bea Torres: "I LOVE the suplex war!"
Jared Idol: "That was a fun moment in a very intense match."
Bea Torres: "You're right! Big ups to both teams, hopefully this isn't the last time we see them fighting!"
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
I understand. Thank you.
The General Manager puts down his phone, looking straight in front of him with his chin resting on his fist. As the camera zooms out, we notice Grace van Beek sitting on the couch, not too far from the desk. She changed her clothes from earlier tonight, an expensive loking red studded dress instead of the equally fancy striped suit she was wearing when she attacked Mel during her tag match. And as you can easily guess, Reeves was the subject of Gian's conversation.
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
They took her to the medical facility for some further examination. The knee is pretty swollen but there shouldn't be any significative damage.
Grace smiles at him.
Grace van Beek:
I did tell you so.
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
But you didn't tell me why.
His reply surprised Grace, and not in a positive way.
Grace van Beek:
I do not need to explain my actions to you, Mr Vaccaro.
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
Of course not, but you trusted me with running your company. And I would appreciate if you'd tell me your plans, miss van Beek.
After a few moments, Grace answers him.
Grace van Beek:
A lesson had to be taught. Ms Reeves and her boyfriend challenged your authority, they challenged you, and they challenged me. And look at what happened. Many others followed, chaos is reigning in these hallways and nobody is safe. This was an example of what happens to those fool enough to consider themselves above the rules. They shall be reminded what their place is.
Gianluigi stands up from his chair and joins her on the couch, sitting in front of the young South African.
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
Trust me, miss van Beek. It rarely works that way.
But Grace ignores his words.
Grace van Beek:
I am considering reinforcing security. All these assaults backstage are intolerable.
The General Manager seems to give up, leaning back against the couch and letting out a sigh.
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
Can we get back to this tomorrow morning? I have one of those terrible headaches.
With a polite smile, Grace stands up and nods.
Grace van Beek:
Of course, Mr Vaccaro. Take care of yourself, I will be waiting for your call.
And with that said, she left the office.
6-Woman Tag Team Elimination Match
Nessa Wall & Britty Kane & Luna VS Jennifer Yang & Tiffany Tompkins & Selina Metzger
Three champions and the three possible contenders for their titles were squaring off in this huge main event. The team of the champions had some troubles finding an agreement in who should start the match, with Luna suggesting that she should be the one, being the Star of the night and all that. In the opposite corner, the trio agreed to send the tank in first, with Jennifer and Tiffany taking their place on the apron. Eventually a decision was made on the other side of the ring as well. Britty and Nessa seemed far from pleased but they eventually let Luna start things off. The bell rang and the Star turned around finding herself in front of the Ubermensch. She cracked a smile, and immediately tagged Nessa in, mouthing “You're not worthy” to the German before leaving the ring. Selina had no reverential fear against the current Millennium champion, easily getting the upper hand on the first exchange and dropping Nessa down with a powerslam after a series of forearm shots. But eventually Wall's experience came into play and the Millennium Champion turned the tables with a step up Enziguri, following with a springboard dropkick that sent Metzger back in her corner. Jennifer took the chance to make the tag and jumped into the ring, shaking her head as the Millennium Champion cowered back and tagged herself out by touching Luna's hand. The Lockdown champion seemed eager to prove herself against the former Millennium Champion, trying to surprise her with her quickness. A headscissors sent Yang flying across the ring, and Luna followed up with a clothesline as soon as the champ popped back up to her feet. At least in her intentions. Showing great flexibility, Jennifer bent backwards ducking it and catching her opponent in a jumping ddt, going for the pinfall right after and getting only a two count. Luna's reaction was immediate, kicking the champion in the stomach and following up with the Starstorm, a discus spinning roundhouse. When she went for the cover, the fans held their breath as the Lockdown Champion went for a cover, sighing in relief as the former champion kicked out. The two women kept trading blows without holding back. Muay Thay against Wing Chun, a clash of styles that saw Yang coming out on top and taking the chance to make the tag. And Tiffany Tompkins entered the ring, welcomed by the roar of the fans who were loving the intensity and hard hitting style the eighteen years old brought to the ring. Luna was taken aback by her stiff and precise kick, soon finding herself forced to kick out from the pinfall attempt after a running single leg dropkick. For every kick she delivered to Luna, she glanced over at her rival, Britty Kane, who was smiling and mocking her clapping her hands on the apron. Luna eventually capitalized on this distraction, blocking a kick and hitting her with a dragon whip. With Tiffany down, she made her way to her corner where Britty was begging for a tag. And finally the Cloud Gate Champion entered the ring, engaging with her long time rival. After all these months crossing paths, these two knew each other so well it wasn't easy for any of them to surprise the opponent, as the first part of their confrontation showed. Dodged kicks, countered moves, reversals… It was like a watching a game of chess with both of them aware that a simple mistake could cost. And Britty was the one making that first mistake, when she went for a corner splash finding nothing but the turnbuckle as Tompkins sidestepped. Sliding her arm between the champion's legs, Tiff rolled her over but, instead than pinning her, she rolled through as well and connected with a kick to the temple. With Britty down, Tiff mounted on top of her letting out weeks of frustration with an endless series of punches to the face. The fans were loving the aggression, cheering loudly as the Five Foot Deathmachine picked the rival up and, after sending her against the ropes, caught her with a Spinebuster, a move she learned from Nora Foley. Kane fought back, locking the young girl in a double butterfly submission after a butterfly suplex. Tiffany found a way out of the hold, and once again the champion and her rival met in the middle of the ring, settling their differences in stiff exchange in the middle of the ring. Right hand, headbutt, knee to the stomach and a vicious elbow strike to the back of the bent over opponent. This was the combination with which Tiffany forced the champ on her knees, setting her up for the Death Kick. The fans erupted in cheers when the superkick connected, knocking down Kane. Tompkins wasted no time to go for the cover, hooking the leg and starting to feel sweet taste of victory in her mouth. But Luna ruined her moment, diving in and making the save for her team. Selina made her pay for it, turning her upside down with a vicious clothesline. Nessa and Jennifer stepped in the ring as well, and chaos ensued with the referee trying his best to restore the order. But his pleads fell on deaf ears, until things made their natural course and Selina threw the Star of the night outside the ring, reaching her right after courtesy of a dropkick from the Millennium Champion. Nessa turned around just in time to eat a superkick from Jennifer Yang, who eventually listened the referee and left the ring, right as Tiffany was picking up Britty. Before the referee could turn his attention back to the legal women, the Cloud Gate Champion poked the Android 18 eye and rolled her up, grabbing a handful of thighs to keep her down for the three count. Rumchata Ayano: “Tiffany Tompkins has been eliminated!“ Tiffany couldn't believe it, and neither could Jennifer who would have made the save of it wasn't for Luna grabbing her leg and stopping her from entering the ring. Heavy boos rained down on Britty as she mockingly waved goodbye to Tiffany, who was now leaving the ring, leaving her team with the number disadvantage. Yang stepped in, determined to re-establish an even playfield. Her hybrid style, a mix of high flying moves and martial arts took the Cloud Gate Champion by surprise. Yang almost got the best of Britty with a springboard Roundhouse Kick, but she only got a two out of it. Finding a break with a jawbreaker, Kane went to her corner to tag Nessa in, but the Millennium Champion was busy…. Filing her nails. Luna took the tag instead, while Britty made sure Wall would know exactly what she was thinking in this moment. And the Lockdown champion jumped into the match with a springboard crossbody obtaining another near fall. The fast and furious action had the fans on their feet, cheering loudly as Yang kicked out of a running Spanish Fly and even louder when, after catching Luna with a blockbuster, Jennifer made the tag to Selina. And this time there was nowhere to go for the Star Of The Night, who found herself in the trajectory of the Ubermensch. Selina ran over her and took her down with a shoulder tackle. But she didn't stop there, going all the way to the opposite corner and knocking Britty down with a right fist. She took a swing at Nessa as well, but the Millennium Champion dropped down off the apron and moved out of the way. As Selina turned out, Luna doubled her over with a middle kick and followed up with a neckbreaker. But when she reached her corner, no one was there to take the tag. Nessa could have, but she had her back turned to the action, arguing with some fans. Metzger didn't let the chance slide and picked the Cloud Gate up for the Elbe Valley Driver. Three seconds later and the match was once again even. Rumchata Ayano : “Luna has been eliminated!” Britty complained to her partner, but Nessa didn't seem to care, and invited her to step in the ring. Britty did exactly that, shaking her head and taking the fight to the German. She was able to stun Selina with a running elbow to the face, unloading a series of quick jabs and forcing her into the corner, where she followed up with a running dropkick. Britty climbed to the middle rope, ready to go for her second rope moonsault. But Selina was right behind her, wrapping her arms around the waist and turning it into a German suplex. The Cloud Gate Champion barely kicked out, but she couldn't do the same from the Elbe Valley Driver that gave Selina her second back to back elimination in the night and the advantage for her team. Rumchata Ayano: “Britty Kane has been eliminated!” Rumchata didn't even finish announcing the elimination when Nessa jumped from the top rope with a knee to the side of Selina's head. A true knockout blow, and the Millennium Champion was perfectly aware of it. Wall smiled wickedly before kicking Jennifer off the apron and turning her attention back to Metzger. She blew her a kiss, before taking her out definitely with the Kissy, Kissy. Rumchata Ayano: “Selina Metzger has been eliminated!” And it was down to two. The former Millennium Champion versus the woman who took the title from her at Deep-Six, cashing in her briefcase in the best possible way in an anticipation of the rematch at Imperium on January 9th. And if this was an appetizer, the main course is going to be something the fans will be talking about for quite some time. The two contenders battled it all out, leaving everything inside that ring as if the title was on the line tonight. Nessa shouted her frustration when Yang kicked out of the Bitch sauce, a handspring into a frankensteiner. Jennifer stared at the referee in shock when he stopped the count after the #LOCKDOWN noticing Nessa's foot on the rope. After hitting each other with the some of the best moves in their arsenal and surviving, the two contenders, exhausted, engaged once again in one last exchange. The Wing Chun strikes were having the best of Wall, but once again the champion experience gave her the opening she needed when she grabbed the referee's shirt and put it between her and Jenni, using him as a shield. The former champion was able to block the strike before hitting the innocent official, but that left her open to Nessa’s reaction. The stiff kicks of The Snarktopus pushed Yang into the corner, and her assault didn't stop there. More kicks and a jumping knee knocked her out on her feet. Nessa sat her on the top rope and joined her upstairs for her Cyclorama, the Snarktopus Splash. Yang fought through it and was able to force her down off the turnbuckle. From there, Jennifer was able to put the champion's shoulders down for the three count with the #YANGVICTORY. WINNERS: Jennifer Yang, Selina Metzger, Tiffany Tompkins BY: Pinfall (#YANGVICTORY), 19:29 |
Jared Idol: "She made it, unbelievable!"
Bea Torres: "What a match! And in the end Jenni brought hte victory home for her team!"
Jared Idol: "She beat the champion. She proved everyone, and herself, that she deserves another shot at the Millennium Championship!"
Bea Torres: "And speaking of proving herself, what about Selina?"
Jared Idol: "I'll say it again, she is a force everyone here in Millennium will have to deal with. Anyway, thank you everyone for turning into Millennium tonight."
Bea Torres: "We will take a short break for Christmas, but we'll be back with Millennium XXIV live from the Richmonf Coliseum in Richmond, Virginia Wednesday 2nd!"
Jared Idol: "One last stop before Imperium, a can't-miss show where we will see who will join Jetpack in the final of this Tag Team Tournament."
Bea Torres: "I'm excited! Anyway, from Bea Torres, and my Grinch colleague Jared Idol, Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year!"