MWE Presents: From The Ashes (night 1)

MWE Presents: From The Ashes (night 1) Jun 27, 2024 1:36:03 GMT -6

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Post by gvb on Jun 27, 2024 1:36:03 GMT -6

MWE Presents: From The Ashes (night 1)
Live from Chase Field in Phoenix, AZ
Saturday, May 25th, 2024

With the opening fatal four way match just minutes away, Lukas York is in the catering area to grab a couple of Monster Energy cans for himself and his wife Sophie. Just as he turns around with the drinks in hand, he meets face to face with none other than Julian Savell.

To the MWE locker room, he’s the leader of the most intimidating and powerful stable known as The Division. But to Lukas, he’s also a friend from Nightfall Fights.

Lukas’ face breaks into a smile as he offers him a can.

Lukas York:
Hey Julian, how’s it going? I didn’t know you’re gonna be here tonight. Want a Monster?

Julian smiles and shakes his head.

Julian Savell:
No, no thank you, Lukas. I appreciate the offer, but it’s not really my thing. I just wanted to come by and wish you luck.

Julian places a hand on his old friend’s shoulder.

Julian Savell:
I’m pulling for you.

Julian looks at the two Monster drinks in Lukas’ hands again and furrows his brow before grabbing both of them away.

Julian Savell:
One of these is for Soph, no? I’ll bring them to her. As for yours? Save it for after the match. Trust me, you don’t need that before a big performance. You do trust me, right?

Savell tilts his head as he keeps his eyes fixated on Lukas. That look makes Lukas do a double take. It’s not that he doesn’t trust Julian but there’s never been a time where he has to even contemplate that. Despite the strange feeling he’s getting from the repeated words of “trust me”, he brushes it off as nothing more with a light chuckle.

Lukas York:
Maybe just a tiny swig. And um, thanks, man. It’s cool. I’ll give them to Sophie, I wanna see her before the match anyway. Catch up with you later!

He gives a little salute goodbye and Julian just steps aside with no argument, letting him walk away. As he leaves the area, Lukas turns around to find Julian already gone and shrugs before refocusing his mind on the match ahead.

Backstage in the arena stands Lexie Smith dressed in her electric yellow one piece with her usual black streak in her hair, kick pads in black with white heels. Her bracers are a mix of black and yellow with a white flower featured on each one, rather prominently. Behind them both is their tag team logo hung on a black cloth.

Rome, dressed ready to go out and cause some chaos, finished cracking his knuckles and opened by addressing the crowd.

Rome Gallagher:
Phoenix! MWE Fans! Allow us to introduce ourselves. The woman standing to my left is Lexie Smith. The Calculating Kick-Ass unofficial Queen of any ring.

He turned to see the straight faced Lexie unable to hide a smirk. Of course she took the baton to introduce him.

Lexie Smith:
And to my right is the man who will break you in half with just his shoulder is Romeo Gallagher. A modern day Hercules.

Rome modestly nodded and agreed, before putting his arm around Lexie.

Rome Gallagher:
Two halves of the tag team that was running through the duos in Vegas. Braisechance - crushing it in High Roller Wrestling. Tonight though we have ourselves one of those ‘everybody for themselves’ kind of match. We’ve been in plenty of those haven’t we Lex.

He let go of her there, turning slightly more to his tag partner/opponent for tonight.

Lexie Smith:
Because the decision makers know. They know you and I are incredibly talented together and apart. When one of these situations does turn up, I think we employ the usual rules.

Lexie folded her arms up.

Rome Gallagher:
Crack some skulls until it's just us two.

She tried and failed to hide another smirk.

Lexie Smith:
Oui. Of course, but I may just pin Kidd while you’re cauliflowering York’s ears in the corner, or something.

Lexie then checked her phone to see who’d just texted her, but Rome’s finger pointing at her drew her attention.

Rome Gallagher:
Nice try. That may have happened back in Liverpool but I’m older, wiser, stronger, faster - you try for a pin and I’ll be there to put a stop to it.

Lexie’s eyebrows rose at the comment, a big dose of respect for him - but she responds with.

Lexie Smith:
Wishful thinking. When I do win you have to raise my hand up. Them the rules.

As Lexie was about to raise her arm up, Rome blocked it.

Rome Gallagher:
Goes both ways, Lucky Lexie. You gotta raise my hand up after I lay out Dudley, Lukas, and you.

Lexie blocked him from raising his arm up.

Lexie Smith:
Even more wishful thinking, Romeo.

Rome Gallagher:
Either way, Phoenix, you’re looking at the winners of tonight. Millennium Wrestling begins a new era with new blood. Tonight’s match, you wanna see what the new kids have got? You’re in for a real storm. Braisechance are here. RG LS, and in our debut…to see Kidd Dudley win? I don’t like that…

Lexie Smith:
Phoenix…

Fans& Rome Gallagher & Lexie Smith:
We don’t like that!

Lexie and Rome are a bit taken back at how loud and in tune the crowd were, both immediately energised by the reaction.

Lexie Smith:
And Lukas York walking out the winner…I don’t like that.

Rome Gallagher:
Phoenix…

Fans& Rome Gallagher & Lexie Smith:
We don’t like that!

Once again the crowd are pushing them and Rome fed off their energy.

Rome Gallagher:
No we do not. Because the Braisechance fans in the audience tonight are gonna see what happens when you unleash us two in the ring at the same time. It’s bad news for Lukas and Dudley. They’ve never faced a guy like me, they’ve never been hit by a girl like Lex. They’ll be walking out with more bruises than spots on your average Dalmatian.

Lexie then pulled the camera over and revealed the Braisechance coin (soon to be available at MWE.Shop), flipping it as she spoke.

Lexie Smith:
So if you’re a betting man or girl, you’ll put your money on us - or more specifically Lucky Lexie Smith.

She says revealing she caught it and it landed on Lexie instead of Rome. Gallagher gave Lexie a look with Lucky Lexie not even shrugging about it.

Rome Gallagher:
Come on, let’s go meet the crowd.

He ushered her forward and let the camera focus on their team logo before fading out.

New Kids In Town Match
Fatal-Four Way

Rome Gallagher VS Lukas York VS Kidd Dudley VS Lexie Smith

If making your debut in a new company didn’t put enough pressure on the shoulders of the four competitors, then the stage would’ve done the trick. The return show after four months, first ever PPV held in a stadium, 40K loud fans creating an electrifying atmosphere were the ingredients for a great night of wrestling, and they were tasked with setting the bar. That tension seemed to disappear as soon as the bell rang with the first couples forming in the middle of the ring. Kidd and Rome locked up while Lexie surprised Lukas York with a quick strike to the neck. As he was catching his breath, the blonde then charged and sent flying across the ring with a headscissors. Lukas rolled out of the ring to regroup and Lexie focused on the other opponents. Gallagher may have had the strength advantage on Kidd but the Work-Dragon used his expertise to take the big man to the ground and put him in a chokehold. Lexie helped her HRW tag partner by kicking Dudley on the head and breaking up the pin. The duo then showed glimpses of their chemistry with their trademark move known as He’s Behind Me, Isn’t He? as Smith superkicked Kidd and shoved him into a full nelson atomic drop.
They didn’t stop there with their cooperation, with Lexie asking Rome to throw her over the top rope and onto York, taking him down with a flying crossbody. Kidd and Lukas soon realized that if Lexie and Rome were working together, they better join forces as well, at least momentarily. The impromptu team took on BraIsechance, this time with Dudley attacking Lucky Lexie and York taking on the powerhouse. The Englishman certainly earned himself some fans tonight among those with a penchant for technical wrestling, putting Lexie through a series of holds with smooth transitions between one submission and the next. His suplexes were textbook executed, but they weren’t enough to keep Lexie down for the three count. Lukas was struggling a bit more against Rome, eating the firefighter’s big boot. But the Chicago native wasn’t one to give up so easily and he kept fighting back, eventually managing to find the opening to take the man down with his Misdirection (short-arm cutthroat backstabber) He hooked the leg for the cover but Rome popped his shoulder up in one.
As predictable, their cooperation ended the moment their opponent no longer represented a threat. They literally had just taken down Gallagher with a combined effort when Lukas grabbed the opponent by the wrist and pulled him into a lariat. The Modern Myth then went for one of the high flying moves in his repertoire, bouncing off the ropes with a springboard moonsault. Kidd raised his knees in protection, making his landing extremely uncomfortable. The Master Of The Seven Deadly Submissions then kept true to his moniker and put Lukas in a Might Morphin Armbar but there came Rome breaking up the submission attempt.
A true physical specimen, Gallagher cleaned the ring and mate it look easy. Lukas and Kidd were sent flying from one side to the other of the ring with a series of overhead belly to belly suplexes. He had one with Lexie’s name on it too, but Smith knew her partner oh too well and saw it coming, landing on her feet. Wasting no time, she connected an enziguri to the side of Gallagher’s head, rocking him and causing him to stumble back. He smiled at his partner, giving her a nod. It was so on, a friendly yet fierce competition between the two tag partners looking to claim a singles victory in their MWE debut. He had Lexie on his shoulders for his Fireman’s Carry Steamroller when he was hit by Lukas’ superkick right to the mush. He fell back, dropping Lexie on the canvas with a sort of Samoan drop, less spectacular but equally effective. Smith rolled out of the ring while Lukas climbed to the top rope and prepared himself to jump with another aerial assault. As he jumped and twisted in mid air, Kidd moved between the two and caught him in his arms, showing off his strength as he managed to stay on his feet and lift York over his shoulders. He then started to spin in circles, going round and round for some long seconds before dropping the opponent with a death valley driver. The cover was made, but once again interrupted by Lexie Smith, taking the win away from Kidd’s grasp..
Lukas York took a lot of punishment throughout this match, perhaps more than anyone else but there was no giving up in him. Using his second or even third wind, the Liberty superstar once again brought war to his opponents, taking on all of them in a reckless and impressive display. A Pumphandle Michinoku Driver II to Lexie before he turned his attention on Kidd and met him with a quick boxing combination he ended with an European uppercut. Rome tried to break him in half with his patented spear but Lukas leaped over him and let him crash into the empty corner. As the now dazed Gallagher fell back into a seated position, the Modern Myth hit him with a flurry of strikes and then dropped him with a snap brainbuster, only obtaining a count of two. He immediately made the cover on Kidd but he kicked out at the last second too. The third attempt on Lexie ended the same way, and at this point you could see the look of disappointment and frustration painted on his face.
That impressive performance surely put him over with the fans who began chanting his name louder and louder. At the same time, it most definitely placed a target on his back as the opponents focused on him to clip his wings and stop his momentum. He fought them back valiantly, holding his own until Romeo cut him in half with a spear Lukas never saw coming, too busy dealing with Kidd. He couldn’t make the pin right away, having to deal with Dudley first. The two began to fight for the right to pin the Modern Myth. Between the two litigants, as they say, the third enjoys. Lexie sneaked back in the ring behind Lukas as he was just starting to get up. The Dream Kick connected and Lexie made the cover. Rome got the best of Kidd with a brutal series of arm trap headbutts and he turned around just as the referee counted the two. Maybe he could have stopped the count, or at least tried to. Instead, he seemed content with his tag partner getting the win.

WINNER: Lexie Smith
BY: Pinfall (Dream Kick), 9:19

The whole walk back from the ring has Lukas’ head swimming in mixed emotions. He thinks he’s done all he could during the match but yet again he falls short and ends up with a disappointing loss in his MWE debut. He knows losses are a part of wrestling and that he’s always been able to bounce back up. But after looking forward so much to this day and hoping to start off here with a positive start, it feels like the universe is not done punishing him.

He punches the wall hard just to vent before rubbing his knuckles. Then lets out a loud sigh, his shoulders slumped and head bowed low. He’ll just give himself a minute before heading back to the locker room. Lukas suddenly feels a hand gently touch his shoulder before hearing a familiar voice.

Julian Savell:
I don’t blame you for being upset, Lukas. I don’t blame you at all. But do you know there is a way to end this? Getting screwed by things out of your control? First it was that Kendrick Kross bastard in Liberty and now? Now it’s this.

Lukas looks up and turns around toward Julian as Savell continues on.

Julian Savell:
I can he-... No, we can help you fix all of this. We can protect you. We can be there for you.

Lukas just stares back at Julian, unsure of how to respond. It’s clear he hasn’t been expecting this. And then it dawns on him: their conversation on Twitter a few days ago.

Lukas York:
We as in The Division?

He pauses, trying to clear his head as he considers Julian’s words carefully.

Lukas York:
No offense, Julian, but how can The Division help me with this? I just… I just need to regroup and try again, that’s all. It’s just my first match here. And it WAS a fatal four way. I’ll find my footing soon enough.

Even he doesn’t believe his own words right now but that’s all he has. Julian nods as he taps Lukas’ shoulder.

Julian Savell:
A lot of people have felt that way and I get it, I really do. You want to go on your own path but you want to know where that gets you? Nothing but pain. Look at everyone around you. Look at Gavin. Look at the price he’s paid so many times trying to blaze his own path. Look at all of the people he alienated as he spiraled down. Do you want that for you? For Sophie?

Julian laughs lightly and shrugs.

Julian Savell:
I’m not telling you anything that you don’t already know deep down inside. But I can’t force you to make a decision. All I can do is help you see things from the other side. The side that wants you, the side that will be your family.

While listening, Lukas rubs his sore neck but the effects of his recent match aren’t what’s weighing so heavily on his mind.

Lukas York:
I’m not exactly doing this alone. I have Sophie. And Gavin’s always got my back, even from a distance. Plus, isn’t the struggle all part of what we do here? I mean, we all lose some before we start winning and claiming championships. Hell, I did win the Anarchy championship from Kendrick even if it got taken away in the end. It just wasn’t my time yet. I’m just saying, how does being my family help me with that?

Julian smiles and shakes his head lightly.

Julian Savell:
Just think about it, Lukas. Think about your priorities, which are you and Sophie.

He leans in slightly.

Julian Savell:
Marrying Sophie has put a target on her back. Look at what’s happened to so many significant others in this business. People attack them when they are involved and Soph? She’s a big part of this sport. Maybe not in the ring, but you catch my drift. Be careful, Lukas. We’ll be watching and waiting.

Lukas starts but stops as the words sink in.

Lukas York:
Right. Well… She can handle herself and she’s proven that throughout the whole Kendrick thing…

He sighs, shaking his head.

Lukas York:
But you’re not wrong either. That all might happen again here with somebody else.

He pauses before giving a half smile.

Lukas York:
You know what, thanks for the concern, Julian. But Soph and I are still doing well and I think we’ll get through whatever comes our way next. We’ll be careful. Anyway, speaking of, I should go find her and rest up now. I’ll see you later, yeah?

Julian nods and holds out his hand for Lukas to shake, which he does.

Julian Savell:
I really hope you do get through whatever comes next. Just know… We will be there if you call.

Julian lets go of Lukas’ hand from the handshake and walks away. Lukas waits there for a moment before leaving too, Julian’s last words weighing heavily on his mind.

Loser Leaves MWE Match
No Count Outs

Missy Propaganda VS Crystal Zdunich

Missy and Crystal were probably the only ones happy with the way their match at Dark Web V ended. The draw allowed them both to keep their job, but management thought that the fans chose that stipulation for a reason and wanted to give them what they wanted, putting once again the two wrestlers with their backs against the wall. To make sure what happened in Johannesburg didn’t repeat tonight, they booked this as a no count-out match and a veteran like Zdunich started right away to take advantage of the stipulation, bringing the fight outside the ropes and beginning to toss Missy into the barricade. Crystal then began to fire off some chops to the young woman’s chest, taunting her after each strike. Her arrogance was perhaps a way to hide the fear of losing her job, mind games to try get an advantage on the younger opponent. But Propaganda wasn’t going to take it, firing back with a couple of forearm strikes before sending the veteran back first into the ring post with a missile dropkick.
Now Missy was returning the courtesy, lighting up Crystal’s chest with some chops of her own. Unlike the veteran, she didn’t waste any time with unnecessary mockery, but she still suffered the consequences of her inexperience when she missed the final strike and hit the ring post with her hand. Like a shark smelling blood, Zdunich went right for it, bending the wrist backwards and torturing the Academy graduate with some joint manipulation. Missy’s expression was one of excruciating pain, a groan escaped her usually tightly sealed lips as Zdunich took her to the floor with an arm drag takedown and stomped on her hand. Crystal knew that, as fruitful as this excursion on the outside had been, she could only win this contest between the ropes. Pushing her opponent back inside the ring, the Blossoming Rose went for a submission, an armbar specifically. Before she could lock it in tho, Missy surprised her with a roll up and almost got away with the win.
The close call infuriated Crystal, who already looked on the verge of a breakdown. She accused the referee of counting too fast, thus turning her back on Missy and paying for it as the Second Propagandist scrambled her brains with a big roundhouse that left her groggy. Propaganda then followed with a few more kicks, somewhat of a trademark of her since the Academy days, The combo ended not with a kick but with a roaring elbow. Christina went down like a ton of bricks and the young Missy hooked her leg for a deep cover, but her effort wasn’t enough to keep the experienced opponent down. After failing to pin Zdunich for the three, Missy immediately tried to submit her, going for an ankle lock. But they were too close to the ropes, and it wasn’t that hard for her to reach them and force the break.
Missy kept pushing, the initial difficulties seemed to be a distant memory. That MMA background she honed in her Academy year on full display tonight as she had Crystal on the ropes for the past couple of minutes. Maybe it was her inexperience, maybe an excess of zeal, maybe the adrenaline coursing through her veins made her forget for a moment the pain she was in but Missy had the unfortunate idea to hit the opponent with her trademark Tornado Punch. The fist connected with Crystal’s jaw with far less strength than she expected and, to make things worse, hurt her just as much as it hurt Crystal. If not more. Zdunich was able to recover more quickly and immediately swung her leg, hitting Propaganda with the Flashing Lights kick. As the former student hit the floor, Crystal went for the Smell The Roses (handspring moonsault), scoring another near fall.
As time passed and fatigue became more and more of a factor, the fear of making a mistake that could cost them not only the match but the job as well began to creep in, the two competitors grew more and more cautious. Neither of them took unnecessary risks anymore, giving up to the high-flying maneuvers in her arsenal in Crystal’s case and playing it on the safe side in Missy’s keeping her guard up and exploiting the openings to counterattack. The pace sensibly slowed down, the near falls didn’t come as often and the general feeling was that both competitors were more scared to lose than willing to win. After ducking under the opponent’s clothesline, Missy sneaked behind Crystal’s back and threw her across the ring with a German suplex, causing her to land near the corner. Using the ropes, Zdunich pulled herself up only to be met with a running back elbow to the face. Missy unleashed a flurry of blows, only stopping when the referee physically pulled them apart. But the youngster was feeling it, she saw the window of opportunity and charged in to hit her Silent Violent. With nowhere to go, Crystal protected herself by using the referee as a shield, dragging him between herself and the charging opponent. Propaganda couldn’t avoid impact, hitting the ref with her finisher and knocking him down. She looked at him in disbelief, feeling terribly sorry for what happened. Zdunich, on the other hand, wasted no time and connected her Rock & Roll (swinging snap DDT), but her plan didn’t work in her favor as the official could not make the count.
A wicked grin formed on Crystal’s lips as she saw a golden opportunity to make a serious claim on the win exploiting this momentary absence of an authority figure. Rolling out of the ring,, Zdunich went and grabbed a steel chair with the clear intention of smacking it on the former student’s skull. The boos rose deafening for Crystal, but she didn’t seem to care. Keeping her job was way more important than having the fans’ approval, especially considering the fans were those who put her in this situation. She even told them this, yelling that this was on them, it was their fault. By the time she was back in the ring, Missy was starting to stand up and Crystal prepared the final blow. Out of the corner of her eye she noticed that the referee was starting to come around as well. Not wanting to risk him spotting her and calling for the DQ, the veteran just slammed the chair on the canvas and tossed it at Missy, dropping flat on her back. The only thing the referee saw was Missy holding a chair and her opponent knocked down on the canvas. The logical conclusion he came to was that Propaganda hit Crystal with a chair and immediately disqualified the young woman, despite her attempts to explain. Realizing that she had just lost her job due to something she didn’t even do, Missy left the ring with her head held down, barely able to hold back tears.

WINNER: Crystal Zdunich
BY: Disqualification, 8:33

As the scene switches to a back hallway we hear at first a shuffling sound and then a light thud as if something was dropped to the floor. The camera pans around only to catch Penelope Kaplan herself just as she jumps and lands on the same square of her hopscotch board that she's clearly drawn on the tiles as the little pebble that she's using. She waves a little bit at the camera and for a moment her energy seems just as bubbly as it has always been. After all there was a reason she used to be called a cinnamon roll. Sweet and fluffy, and the kind of person that you just want to hang out with. But then she bends down, picks up the pebble and puts it in her pocket while her boot methodically smudges out the chalk boxes of the hopscotch board.

Penelope Kaplan:
Hey Millenium Wrestling fans, it's been a good long while hasn't it? Even so, there's a special energy at Millennium shows that I've just never found anywhere else. I hadn't really forgotten how it was, but it was still a little bit of a thrill to walk through those doors. I got to think about facing all new competition here. Even with everything I've done since the last time I was here, you find people are used to seeing me as a tag team competitor. After all, Jetpack were the very first Tag Team Champions here. We kicked it all off. Jet and I had a fine time and I still get goosebumps thinking about the first time we stepped in a Millennium ring.

For a moment her expression was almost wistful, maybe even a little bit sad. Penny then shakes her head and gives a little smile.

Penelope Kaplan:
But facts are facts, Time marches on. But I guess it's also true that history can repeat itself. Instead of brand new competition I'm faced with good old Ash Fi. Imagine my surprise on seeing that name again so far away from the last place I saw it. I'm sure she expects that she's going to be facing the same Penny from IYHWF. If that's what she thinks, who could blame her? But I've been doing a lot of things quietly. Spreading my little wings so to speak, doing the kind of matches that if you knew me from before you would never credit me to be able to do, and it all started at a little show put on by Filthy Bazaar. A little company run by Laurel Anne Hardy, in one of her Fight For Love shows. And the rest was history. Sweet little Penny who just tried to make everyone happy is gone. It's like the man said, she's hardcore. So if Ash thinks that I'm going to be the same sweet innocent little pushover with a heart of gold who just wanted to wrestle with her best friend? I'm afraid she's not going to be in for a good time. But! The real winners after all are going to be you fans. I think that's important.

Penny winks at the camera and sashays off.

APE (Alan Envy & Duke Andrews) and “Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page are walking into the backstage area of Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. They are met with several MWE security guards at the door of the arena. As the three stop at the door Tiffany smiles.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page:
What the hell is this? As if you didn’t know that MWE management smartened up and realized that they need us on From the Ashes tonight. It is what is best for business.

One of the security guards hands Tiffany a piece of paper. Tiffany takes the paper and opens it up and begins to read it out loud.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page:
“Mr. Andrews, Mr. Envy, and Ms. Page, I hope we find you in good spirits and ready for your match against the Division tonight. I know it will be a great match but these gentlemen in front of you right now will be your escorts for the evening. They will take you to your locker rooms as well as escort the three of you to Gorilla Position just before your match tonight. This isn’t being done for anyone’s physical safety but because of your blatant disrespect the three of you showed when the From The Ashes card was initially dropped several days ago. Quite frankly, I, along with the rest of MWE management simply do not trust the three of you. So, good luck in your match tonight and just remember we will be watching. Yours truly BROOKFORD.”

Tiffany glares at the security team as she hands the piece of paper to Duke, who takes the paper before looking it over along with Alan.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page:
You sycophants think that doing this is in your best interest?!?!

Tiffany looks over at Alan and Duke.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page:
I am tempted to let the two of you handle this however the two of you deem fit but I am sure that is what Grace and her minions want so they can fire us with cause.

Tiffany looks back at the security guards.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page:
This will not work! None of you will get what you want!!!

Envy puts his hand on the shoulder of Tiffany as he steps up to the security team.

Alan Envy:
Now, now Tiffany….it's what's best for everyone right? You are all assigned to be our personal escorts. Actually what your assigned yo do is protect those bitches from running into is pre-match and us ending the new flavor of the month right? You all do realize that you're going to do what we want too right?

The security team looked nervous as Duke tore the note in half. Sprinkling the paper in the face of the guards before stepping in front of them.

Duke Andrews:
Let’s go boys.

A snap of the fingers as he walks down the hallway. Eyes scanning around the area to see who is already in the arena.

Duke Andrews:
Understand that this is Brookford being the little bitch he’s always been. He’s never been able to beat me one on one, and now he’s got that authoritative stick stuck so far up his ass, between him and Moretti I’m not sure who Grace and the board as whipped more. But alas, I’ll comply tonight.

Stopping as they finally reached the small makeshift locker room.

Duke Andrews:
But only tonight.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page:
I’m tired of sitting around and waiting for the powers behind MWE to acknowledge me. So now it is time that I take what I want. Just like Alan and Duke will take what they want, as well, which it makes perfect sense that we come together on this journey. Just remember though, when you think you have us all forget out more of our plan will be revealed. Then once we deem any of you at fault I’ll hand you over to my heater, Clyde Sutter, to execute sentencing for your sins. It is simply only a matter of time before everything we have been saying will come to pass. Just remember

Singles Match

Ash Fi VS Penelope Kaplan

A loud pop echoed in the stadium as “Same Old Sun” by Chris Catalist blared out of the PA system and the video package on the jumbotron aired a clip showcasing highlights of Penny Kaplan’s career. Time went by, but the MWE faithfuls still loved the former tag champion and welcomed her back with open arms. Ash Fi, a former champion in her own having held the Chaos Theory championship, was determined to spoil Penelope’s return and attacked her as soon as the bell sounded, leaping toward her and flooring her with a Thesz Press. The Irish woman dropped a series of punches to Kaplan’s face, a very aggressive start to the match that gave Finn an early advantage and, in her plans, send a clear message to the opponent and possibly intimidate her.opponent. One of her punches busted Penny’s lips open, blood began to drip on her chin. Something clicked inside the Massachusetts native as she git a taste of her own blood, her reaction was sudden and furious, something Ash wasn’t prepared for. Rolling over, Kaplan moved to a vantage point and fired back ,returning the courtesy to the Irish woman. When the referee separated the two of them, Penny wiped the blood off her mouth and smiled at her opponent. It wasn’t that usual cute and reassuring smile the fans remembered from her. It was unsettling in some kind of way.
There was definitely something different with the former tag champion. Nothing too extreme, it wasn’t like she suddenly went crazy, but everyone who was familiar with her character could tell that something was off. She seemed more aggressive, to the point where the official had to warn her a couple of times for ignoring the rope break and continuing on her relentless onslaught despite his orders. Another thing the fan surely noticed was that she didn’t interact with them nearly as much as she used to, Not once did she play with the crowd, or even smiled at them. Her only focus was the opponent standing in front of her, her only goal was to grab that win quickly and in a dominant fashion. And she came quite close to achieving it with a Banzai Drop, bit Aislinn still had some fight left in her and kicked out in two.
Never one to shy away from a fight, Ash Fi returned fire with a flurry of blows that quickly turned the tide. The long sequence of low kicks and forearm strikes ended with the Warp Spasm (cartwheel roundhouse kick) that knocked Penny down. The former Tag Team champion immediately left the ring to regroup but Aislinn wasn’t going to give her the chance. Taking a run to the ropes, Fi launched herself toward the opponent and took her down with a suicide dive, pushing her back into the barricade. Quickly back on her feet, the former Chaos Theory champion followed up with a series of stomps to the grounded opponent, fully exploiting the ten count before bringing her back in the ring and pinning her with a slingshot senton, but it wasn’t enough to keep her down for the three count.[li]
[li]After sitting down the opponent on the canvas with a snapmare, the former member of Jetpack brutalized her with a series of vicious kicks to the spine, leaving her groaning in pain and arching her back. Penny dashed to the ropes and hit Ash with a final sliding clothesline to the back of the head, but not even that could keep the Irish down. Kaplan was ready for the three point stance clothesline, waiting only for her opponent to get in position. As soon as she did, Penelope charged and went for the takedown but Aislinn was, surprisingly, faster and hit her with a low dropkick to the knee, taking her down. The former Chaos Theory champion then showed her technical prowess putting Penny into the Barghest (rolling guillotine choke armbar). The submission was locked in tightly, Penelope started squirming in an attempt to escape but it only seemed to make things worse. Luckily for her, Aislinn’s positioning wasn’t the best, being a bit too close to the ropes and Kaplan was able to get the break.
Ash Fi’s confidence kept growing as her momentum carried on. The Irishwoman continued her offense with a draping DDT and a running senton for another near fall. Rather than getting frustrated with coming so close to the win and yet failing to grasp it, Aislinn used it as fuel to her fire, kicking up the intensity a notch. The Irish native continued in his relentless attack, putting in perhaps her greatest performance since her days as a champion. She had Penny right where she wanted for the Gae Bulg but Kaplan wasn’t letting her ruin her return to the company and managed to counter the move with a front powerslam, showing great core strength to halt the opponent’s momentum and an even more impressive timing to counter the move. She even tried to pin Ash there and then, but the former Chaos Theory champion stayed alive.
After surviving Ash’s fury, Penelope slowly but steadily took back control. The fans got to see some of the vintage moves of Penny’s arsenal as well as some new ones she implemented in more recent times, but nothing seemed to be enough to keep Finn down. The globetrotter just kept kicking out from everything that was thrown at her, including but not limited to a wheelbarrow driver, a package piledriver and Penny’s trademark springboard flying knee. Kaplan shook her head, almost in disbelief although part of her was actually admiring the opponent’s fighting spirit. But at this point it looked like Ash was merely surviving, seemingly at Penelope’s mercy and unable to turn the tide. And the inaugural MWE Tag Team champion knew it. She almost stalked her opponent, waiting for her to slowly get back to her feet. When she did, Penny doubled her over with a kick to the stomach and finished her with an all-time classic, the Penelope Code (running corkscrew necknìbreaker) for the win.

WINNER: Penelope Kaplan
BY: Pinfall (Penelope Code), 8:43

The camera rolls up on Aaliyah and Annika as they are chatting with each other near catering, definitely looking ready for their match ahead against The Carter Girls. Bright and sparkling gear wrapped their stunning and curvy forms and to say they looked relaxed would be an understatement. They are in their element, owning the space around them. They continue their conversation while the camera waits and it's clear they know it's there but they are ignoring it for now. Until finally Annika takes a breath and lets it out on an exasperated sigh.

Annika Greene:
What? We already done been said everything we wanted to say about The Carter Girls. Listen, they at least know how to dress, they fashionable, they cute, they pretty. And they don't talk nasty about us so we ain't got to talk nasty about them. We going to just go have us a match, probably going to win because we are the best, but we ain't going to have to smack them down a forehand, because at least they are always who they are. We could name several people Karen who ain't like that Karen who think we forgot what jerks they are Karen. But we ain't got to do that with them because we already said. Now shoo, we wanna finish our snack.

We couldn't hear her screaming, but it was cleat that Missy Propaganda wasupset with the outcome of her match. And that didn't even cut it. Anger, frustration, disappointment. Those were the feelings you could read on her as she paced the area in front of the GM office, ready to voice her opinion on what transpired at the end of her match against Crystal Zdunich, and possibly demand to overturn the decision to end her contract.

Her body language was indicating that she had been waiting for quite some time outside the closed door, but the General Managers did not receive her just yet. The reason became suddenly clear when the door opened and out walked Alice Wagner, one of Missy's closest friends from the Academy days.

Alice Wagner:

Missy... I'm so sorry for what happened to you. That was so... Unfair.

She spoke those words and "translated" them in Sign Language. That was how Missy replied, expressing what she was going through which earned her a hug from her friend.

Alice Wagner:

No, I don't think the fans hate you. I'm pretty sure they wanted to get rid of Crystal, and knew that you could beat her. Too bad that cheating bitch found a way to screw over.

Missy moved her hands frantically in front of her.

Alice Wagner:

Well, you definitely have a point. I think it's worth a try, moreso since there's an opening now on the roster.

The Second Propagandist raised an eyebrow. Wagner quickly replied, once again both in signs and words.

Alice Wagner:

I just confirmed Mr. Moretti and Mr. Brookford that tonight will be my final match in MWE. If we're being honest, I would have done without it after what happened to Faith, but they told me someone requested a match against me, and it just didn't feel right to walk out on them and the fans.

It was an easy guess that Missy's next question required some sort of explanation from her fellow Academy graduate.

Alice Wagner:

Things are...complicated for me here. My cousins made their choices, and I fear that if I stickl around here, I'll end up on a collision couirse with them and The Division. And honestly, fighting Jvstice and McKena is not something I want or I'm ready to do. Besides, I've always wanted to go to Japan. I feel their vision of this business is closer to mine than the American Way. Too much poilitics here, deals made behind closed doors and lack of respect and sportsmanship. I feel like I don't really fit in, you know?

She nodded, being familiar with that feeling although in a slightly different connotation.

Alice Wagner:

But yeah, this isn't about me. What happened to you was dosgraceful and you shouldn't lose your job over that bullshit. I say you go in there and give it a shot. And if they still say no...

Alice placed a hand on her friend's shoulder.

Alice Wagner:

I'm sure you will land on your feet. And wherever you may end up, just keep showing up and showing out. Make them regret letting you go.

Missy replied something that made Alice shake her head.

Alice Wagner:

I don't wanna hear that. You're extremely talented Missy, you just need to find your voice...

Both girls rolled their eyes at the unintentional pun.

Alice Wagner:

I'm sorry, but you know what I mean. You're not just your uncle's niece, you're not just Aislinn's little cousin, and you're more than the Second Propagandist. You're Missy, always remember that. And make sure everyone else does too.

The Academy graduate nodded her head.

Alice Wagner:

There you go. Well, I guess this is a goodbye then, my friend. Good luck for everything.

They exchanged another brief hug before going their way. Alice headed down toward her locker room, Missy took a deep breath and went to talk with the General Managers.

Tag Team Match

Bad & Boujee VS The Carter Girls

Some would say this was an easy paycheck tonight for the former Tag Team champions, Aliyah and Annica Greene. The Carter Girls have been on a bit of a losing streak prior to the company going on hiatus and unlike the twins, haven’t been competing in other companies to keep their skills sharp. But underestimating them would be a mistake: even in defeat, Jessica and Evelyn have always put in solid performances, constantly giving the impression that they were this close to finding the right formula to take their career to the next level. Tonight they started with the right foot, with the veteran Jessica using her experience to get the upper hand on Annica and whip the former tag champion into the friendly corner. There she tagged Evelyn in, the former Academy student delivered a series of chops before leaving the stage once again to Jessica. The duo worked together for a good minute, keeping Annica on their side of the ring and not leaving her any chance to fight back. Their offense culminated in a perfectly timed slingshot catapult (Jessica) into a diving bulldog (Evelyn), but Aliyah was quick to get inside the ring and save her sister for a possible three count.
It was a strong start by the Carter Girls who most definitely had put the work in during the break, despite Jessica’s multiple commitments in other companies. Vi landed some heavy kicks on Annica, aiming at her ribs and midsection. Eventually the twin was able to block one, which gave her the opening to take the young woman down with a dragon screw leg whip and quickly reaching to her sister in the corner for a much needed tag. Aliyah was fresh and brought the fight to the Carters, hitting a series of stomps to Evelyn’s chest before taking Jessica off the apron with a dropkick to the face. The former champion then climbed that same turnbuckle and jumped toward the now standing Evelyn. Vi ducked and moved toward the corner to avoid impact, Aliyah landed on her feet and quickly turned around to a kick to the stomach. One step ahead of the opponent, she grabbed the Academy graduate’s foot and pushed it upward, causing Evelyn to do a complete flip and land on her feet. As soon as she touched the ground, Alliyah fired off a superkick that knocked the young woman down, obtaining the first near fall of the match for Bad & Boujee.
It was their turn now to showcase that set of skills that made them one of the best and more accomplished tag teams in the business today. Once the flashy duo was able to build some momentum, they literally steamrolled the poor Evelyn, hitting her with their full arsenal of tag team maneuvers. Double dropkicks. double suplex and a variation of a Doomsday Device with Annica hitting a flying leg lariat instead of a clothesline. The only way Vi was able to survive was thanks to Jessica being quick on her feet and managing to save her. The Fashion Guru kept cheering on her young sister in law, inviting the crowd to get behind her as well and help her push through this hard times she was going through. The fans responded positively, clapping their hands and making Evelyn feel their support. The Academy graduate was able to channel their energy and fight back, delivering a few forearms to Aliyah’s jaw to get out of the corner they had trapped her in. She eventually floored her with a jumping knee and made a run for Jessica but Annica tagged herself in and tackled her to the ground before she could touch Carter’s stretched out hand.
And just like that Vi was back in the grinder. Annica fired a series of kicks to her legs and sides, Exhausted, Evelyn fell to one knee and got smacked in the face with a brutal running single leg dropkick. The former tag champion then left through the ropes, took a moment to blow a taunting kiss to Jessica in the corner and leaped back inside the ring with a slingshot elbow drop, making another cover on Evelyn for yet another count of two. Annica pulled Vi up to her feet and dragged her toward her corner, setting her up for the Electric Dreams. Aliyah was already on the top rope, ready to jump and hit her double foot stomp as soon as her sister dropped Vi on the canvas but the young Carter was able to turn the Electric Chair drop into a reverse rana, spiking Annica on her head. Aliyah decided to jump anyway, going for a crossbody on Evelyn, who leaped in the air and took the former champion down with a dropkick. The fans were on their feet, cheering for the youngster as she finally was able to make the hot tag to Jessica.
The founder of Bien Habille was on fire, not even caring that both Greenes were in the ring at the same time and bringing the fight to both of them. Clothesline, dropkick, leg lariat, DDT… Jess hit those moves on each one of the twins, bouncing back on her feet with a kip up to complete the sequence. She then dragged Annica’s limp body right next to her sister’s and climbed to the top rope, climbing to the top rope and motioning for the Show Stealer. The idea of seeing her connecting the corkscrew 620 senton on both members of Bad & Boujee to pick up a major win sent the fans in a frenzy, roaring with anticipation. Jessica took the leap, spinning in mid air and landing perfectly across Aliyah. Not Annica, who just moved out of the way at the very last second, saving herself and the match as she broke up the pin right before the referee’s hand touched the floor a third time..
An unfortunate accident ended up being the turning point of the match. Aliyah connected a missile dropkick to Jessica’s chest and pushed her back into the corner where Evelyn was still recovering. Carter’s elbow connected with Vi’s face, catching her right above the cheek. Her eye immediately began to swallow, and what was worse, the referee called the tag. Evelyn tried to protest, although in her usual polite tones, but the decision was standing. She traded strikes with Aliyah, but it was getting harder to see through the black eye. At the first chance, she turned around to tag Jess back in but the former Valiant Chaos champion was not there, courtesy of Annica. The former champion smiled and waved “goodbye” at Evelyn who turned around right into Annica’s Like Woah! (pop-up powerbomb) that sealed the deal for the twins.

WINNER: Bad & Boujee
BY: Pinfall (Like Woah!), 10:07

At the end of the match, Jessica turned toward her partner with an almost apologetic look on her face, taking responsibility for this loss. Evelyn was just then getting up to her feet, and it took her a moment to recover from the bump and realize what just happened. Jessica left the ring and walked close to her, still saying how sorry she was about costing them the match. Vi just stared back at her for some brief moments then turned around and walked away with a brisk pace, leaving her tag partner and her sister at commentary stunned.

Backstage at Chase Field we see one half of the MWE Tag Team Champions Matt Stone walking down the hallway, looking at his own reflection in the title belt and doing micro adjustments to his hair. It’s perfect, of course, but it could be even more perfect. Its in this important activity that we find him rounding a corner and bumping into someone, causing him to drop his championship to the floor.

Matt Stone:
Hey! I’m walkin’ here!

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn looks over at Matt and rolls her eyes.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn:
Good job, Matt. I hope your parents are here to take pictures of your first steps.

Matt Stone:
I’ll have you know I’ve taken plenty of steps in my life, thank you very much.

He looks down at the title, then back up to Tiffany.

Matt Stone:
Well? Aren’t you going to pick that up?

Tiffany cracks a smile.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn:
Only way I’m picking that up is if I’m taking it from you.

Matt rolls his eyes and bends down to pick up the title that Tiffany had clearly deliberately knocked out of his hands.

Matt Stone:
Like that would ever happen. Tag Teams aren’t a thing anymore as made evident by your teaming with a monkey tonight.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn:
Well, you can always test out that theory against Duke and Alan. That’s if…you know…you are man enough to.

Matt raises an eyebrow at that half hearted challenge as he straightens himself up.

Matt Stone:
If I’m…wow. It’s twenty twenty-four Tiffy, we don’t use language like that anymore. What is it with your family and not giving me the respect I deserve, hmm?

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn:
(Sarcastically) Right.

Matt Stone:
I am right, thank you for noticing. You know, there may still be hope for you yet.

Tiffany rolls her eyes.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn:
Let me ask you, I've always wondered about you, Matt. How have you been able to function in life with your head up your own ass?

He eyes her for a second, clearly expecting a better question from her

Matt Stone:
What do you mean exactly? I’m a world champion in this company, this title commands respect. I function by being the best, taking on all comers, and showing the world that no one can shut me up!

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn:
Oh believe me I respect that title you hold. It is just the holder I don’t respect. Now if you are taking on all comers I am pretty sure I can get someone like BROOKFORD to give Duke and Alan a championship match against you and whatever the name is carrying you in this championship reign of yours.

Matt Stone:
Oh now you’ve done it. How can you not know Veronica’s name? She’s accomplished in her own right, and I don’t think Duke or Alan would dare disrespect her the way you just did. Though I do find it funny how you didn’t put yourself down as a potential challenger…

Matt approaches her, cocky smirk on his face.

Matt Stone:
What’s the matter…scared?

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn:
Scared of what?

Matt Stone:
Facing me and Veronica, obviously. You don’t have what it takes? Or maybe Duke and Alan just prefer each other's company, not that there's anything wrong with that.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn:
What did you say a little bit ago about this being twenty twenty four and not using that kind of language, Matt? Well, right back to you. Now as to why I didn’t insert myself into a tag team challenge is quite simple. I’ve already done the tag team thing. You know before you did with what’s her name again, oh yes, Veronica. I’m focused on winning a singles championship again.

Matt Stone:
Well good luck with that…and Seinfeld is timeless Tiffy, timeless!

Matt rolls his eyes and begins to take his leave, looking back over his shoulder at her.

Matt Stone:
Good luck in your tag match, Shirley that will aid your quest.

“Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn:
Who the hell is Shirley? And who is Seinfeld? You should be ashamed of yourself, Matt!

Tiffany walks away and as she passes by Matt she knocks the World Tag Team Championship belt out of his hands before walking away. Matt looks at Tiffany stunned and annoyed.

Family Business Match
Special Guest Referee: Angelica Jones

Kimberly Williams VS Jessica Lasiewicz

There was something odd and, in a way, heartwarming in the way the referee Angelica Jones was talking to the competitors before the match began. Nobody could possibly question their professionalism, but it was impossible to look at that scene and not see a mother give recommendations to her children. Especially when she mentioned the “no weapons” part and immediately glanced at Kim. The former Chicago Way champion looked back at her mom with the most fake-angelic expression on her face, whistling innocently. When she finally revealed the arm she was hiding behind her back, on her right hand she was wearing Betty White. A round of laughter burst out inside the stadium while both Angelica and Jessica just shook their heads at Kim who smiled and candidly said “I was kidding!” before taking off the weapon. The match finally started, The Archangel offered a handshake to her sister who shook her head and instead hugged her. The display of sisterly love only lasted a few seconds before Lasiewicz went for a belly to belly suplex. Something Kim was expecting, as she managed to land on her feet after being thrown in the air. And the best part, she didn’t even look mad about it.
Jessica and Kimebrly locked up in a clinch in the middle of the ring, jockeying for position as they tried to one up each other in this first technical exchange. It was a mirrored back and forth, if Jessica twisted her sister’s arm in a hammerlock, Williams found a way out of it and applied the exact same move. When the Woman Scorned thought she finally had the upper hand with a headlock takedown, Lasiewicz would escape it, get back to a standing position and put Kim in a headlock, quickly bringing her down to the canvas. It didn’t go much better with suplexes, as they engaged in a series of standins switches in an attempt to German suplex their sibling, finding creative ways to go from waistlock to waistlock for several seconds, until The Archangel suddenly decided she would try to surprise the Wildcard by pushing her into the ropes rather than trying to lift her and pin her shoulders to the canvas with an O’Connor Roll, obtaining only a count of two.
The referee was making a good job keeping order tonight. Not that anybody was expecting either competitor to go absolutely crazy (although that’s something you can never rule out in a Kimmy’s match) or trying to cheat. Nonetheless, Angelica made sure every hold, even a simple wristlock, was interrupted the moment there was a rope break. And there had been quite a few occasions when she had to enforce that rule, as either competitor tried to reach the ropes quite frequently as it was the easiest way to escape the opponent’s submissions. Not only from Jessica who was known to be a fine technical wrestler although in recent times she seemed to favor a more aggressive style based on strikes and high-flying moves, Williams was more famous for her chaotic and violent approach to every match, to the point where most people had forgotten how good she actually was inside the squared circle. She hold her own against her sister, putting up a fantastic defense against Jessica, but she even beat her, at least momentarily, at her own game when she was able to put her into the Homage To The Queen (crucifix armbar with neck submission).
So far, this has been a match for refined palates and technical wrestling enthusiasts, a battle that, for most of the time, took place on the canvas with a lot of grappling and the occasional suplex attempt. But things were about to change when The Archangel hit her sister with an Our Lady Peace so brutal and unexpected that made Angelica jolt, feeling bad for Kim who went down flat on her back. Most people would’ve been out after that, but Williams was cut from a different clothes than most people and got her shoulder up in two. But without a doubt that was the first big turning point of the match, as Jessica kept building her momentum off that and came close to the win in at least two more occasions when she hit her trademark moves Beauty (roundhouse kick followed by a curb stomp) and In Your Dreams (swinging fisherman neckbreaker)). Unable to keep the Woman Scorned down for a count of three, Jessica changed approach and tried to submit her with a Torturous Destiny right in the center of the ring. Kim was in a lot of pain but she refused to give up, struggling to find a way out of the Cattle Mutilation. While Angelica was checking to see if Kim was going to tap out, a figure could be seen jumping the barricade. Immediately the official stood up and confronted the mysterious figure but her expression quickly changed as she recognized him as David Striker. The SCW star raised his hands, stating that he had no ill intentions and actually apologized, but he just wanted to cheer on his good friend Kimberly. And it worked, as his support seemingly was the spark that helped Williams to break through her sister’s grasp, escaping the excruciating submission.
After taking some time to catch her breath on the outside, with a class act from Jessica who allowed her sister to regroup rather than chase her out of the ring, Kim re-entered the fray with new found spirit and determination. She attacked Jessica with a striking combination, quick and precise kicks to the legs and torso that forced the Archangel on the backfoot. To end the sequence Kim delivered her patented Morrigan’s Wrath (superkick), the impact sending Jessica into the ropes and bouncing back into a second Morrigan’s Wrath to the chin. This time the former Tag Team champion went down while The Woman Scorned climbed to the top rope. David Striker kept cheering on her, she took a moment to nod in his direction before jumping for her Chaos Theory. Lasiewicz rolled out of the way, but once again Kimmy managed to correct the trajectory and land on her feet. The two sisters charged at each other and went for simultaneous big boots, resulting in both of them getting knocked flat on their backs.
Both women were exhausted, taking almost the full count before getting back to their feet. The match had been going for nearly fifteen minutes, but it’s been a very taxing contes not just from a physical standpoint. but from a nervous and emotional one as well. And it continued as such, as neither competitor was holding anything back. This might be all in the family, but neither sister wanted to be the one going out on her back. If there was a perfect chance to bust out her special finisher, it was tonight. Right under her mother’s gaze, Kimberly paid homage to her with the Angel’s Arch, applying the Lion Tamer on her sister. Jessica screamed in pain as her back was bent in an unnatural angle, but she still tried to fight through the pain, slowly making her way to the ropes. With a last ditch effort Lasiewicz grabbed the bottom rope, forcing Kim to let her go. Using the ropes, Jessica pulled herself up, looking in a world of pain. As her sister went to grab her, she tripped her over and set her up on the middle rope. Biting the bullet, the Boston native took one final run to the ropes and blasted Kimmy with a running knee strike to the back of the head, followed by a Pure Deformation (Skull Crushing Finale) to pick up the win and a loud round of applause from the Phoenix fans.

WINNER: Jessica Lasiewicz
BY: Pinfall (Pure Deformation), 16;51

Abby Blake has just finished getting her makeup done for the upcoming tag match. In her locker room she has the MWE Jr. Heavyweight Championship resting on her lap. Joining her in her room is an employee of hers elsewhere and his name is Kidd Dudley.

Kidd Dudley:
Amazing crowd out there.

Post Match Kidd was slightly red in the face, wiping himself down with his trusty towel.

Abby Blake:
I heard while I was watching your match.

Kidd is taken by surprise, the Jr. Heavyweight Champ and all taking time out of her day - immediate appreciation and even more respect.

Kidd Dudley:
Didn't figure you would be, funnily enough. Surprised me Abby Blake was watching.

Abby finished her hair in a tight, neat pony for the match ahead.

Abby Blake:
I'm always keeping my eyes on all the upcoming challengers for this title.

Blake swung the title over her shoulder and proudly showcased it to Dudz

Abby Blake:
Including you.

Kidd leans back, realizing that opportunity would be great but he was still the new Kidd on the roster.

Kidd Dudley:
I've only had my first match Abs. Who knows how many people are ahead of me in the queues for all the titles.

Abby hears someone coming down the hall and remarks:

Abby Blake:
Here comes someone who's first in line for my title.

Now Rick Benson appear on the feed. Has black T-shirt on with company PPV, and black ring shorts boots and knee pads.

Rick Benson:
Good to see you, Ms. Blake. Am excited to team with you after break. Apologies for delay was collecting new shirt, as collect them of course.

Kidd Dudley:
You did give me the collector vibes. Nice to meet you. Kidd Dudley.

He offers his hand to this new fella. Rick shake hands with Mr. Dudley.

Rick Benson:
Nice to meet you also.

He then turn attention to Abby.

Abby Blake:
Hope you're ready to take on Millennium's most insufferable couple.

He agree with nod.

Rick Benson:
But of course. Will be having your back even though am now contender for the Jr. Heavyweight Championship. Will be working hard to make sure you have another win over Rainer and remain in good health for our match. Has been while since we faced each other.

Dudley is taken back by that little nugget of history, his gaze darting between the champ and her partner.

Kidd Dudley:
You two fought already?

Abby remembers it well with a victorious smirk.

Abby Blake:
Yeah. Kicked his butt in Valiant Wrestling, and I'll have to do it again because this title isn't going anywhere.

She drew her hand across the face plate of the title and underlined her name with her finger. Rick now replies to Abby.

Rick Benson:
Believe should agree to disagree, Ms. Abby for tonight have to be united front.

Abby Blake:
Gotta be ready for all their tricks tonight. Dudz - You thought your match was chaotic... Just you wait until you see what kind of crap Keeping up with the Nordhagens pull.

Gentlemanly, Kidd offers his assistance.

Kidd Dudley:
You need back up?

Abby waves her hand along with her statement to politely reject his offer.

Abby Blake:
We should be okay. Thanks for offering, but the champ can handle it.

She said looking over to Rick.

Rick Benson:
Correct, also the #1 contender will be able to do this also. Perhaps we should get to the curtain, Ms. Abby. Believe match is up next.

Rick open locker room door for Ms. Abby to pass through. Just before she leaves she backtracks to welcome Kidd to the company.

Abby Blake:
Sure. Later Dudz and hey - welcome to Millennium Wrestling.

Abby threw it in at the end, as she walked out of her locker room, and joined Rick to head to the ring.

Tag Team Match

Abby Blake & Rick Benson VS Rainer Nordhagen & Karen Nordhagen

Nine months and a baby later, the fans still hated Karen’s guts. Not even wearing a shirt to pay homage to her good friend Faith Savell mitigated their reaction, the boos unceasing through their whole entrance. Quite the opposite of what Abby and Rick received, the current Junior Heavyweight champion and her number one contender were without the shadow of a doubt the fan favorite walking into this match. Blake raised her belt in Rainer’s face, taunting him with the title he used to carry and failed to win back at Dark Web V. He shrugged his shoulders, saying that he didn’t care about the belt, he had bigger goals to achieve. Was he hinting perhaps at taking a shot at the tag titles with his two time champion wife? Was this the dawn of a new team in MWE? The match started with Rainer and Abby, but the German-Australian immediately tagged out, saying he wanted nothing to do with Blake. But less than a minute later, when Karen pushed her into the corner, he didn’t mind taking a cheap shot to the back of her head when the referee was distracted. Karen showed some ring rust, which was perfectly understandable after all this time away from competition. But the fans weren’t going to let her get away with it, mocking her when she missed the hip attack in the corner and offered Abby a chance to turn the tide, hitting a flurry of kicks to the chest before sending her flying into the middle of the ring with a monkey flip.
The chemistry was certainly there in the champion’s team, Abby and Rick seemed to be working just fine together. Benson took Eldon down with a spear and then got the champion involved once again. She ran toward him, he launched her in the air so that she could come down onto Eldon with a ribs-crushing double foot stomp. Blake made the cover but Rainer rushed in and saved his wife. Her return to the ring wasn’t exactly going how she expected, but if there was one thing Karen didn’t lose during her time off was her cunning and tendency to break the rules. A classic eye rake opened the way to her comeback. It was nothing too fancy or technically impressive, but sometimes a flurry of punches and kicks followed by a facebreaker is all you need to keep the opponent down enough to make your way to the opposite corner and get that much needed break.
As he entered the ring, Rainer rolled his eyes and told Abby that no matter how much she insisted, he wasn’t going to fight her. He even tried to order her to leave the ring and let Big Rick in, so that the match could continue. She obviously refused and charged at full speed, he ducked her clothesline attempt and ran in a straight line toward Benson, taking him down with a running kick. The impact was so brutal that the poor guy flew off the apron and into the barricade, hitting the back of his head against it. Rainer now turned around and laughed at Abby who charged in to avenge her partner and friend. She couldn’t even take one step because, from behind her back, Karen grabbed her blonde hair and just slammed her into the canvas. The former Academy student was immediately all over Blake with vicious stomps and punches to the back of the head, really testing the referee’s patience as the official threatened him with a DQ not once but twice.
Now that Abby was weakened and worn out, Karen had an easy time asserting her dominance. She slammed the champion’s face several times into the turnbuckle, even grinding her eyes on the top rope getting even more heat with the fans for this unsportsmanlike behavior. Nobody could deny its effectiveness, Blake didn’t seem able to turn things around or even catch a break, and if it wasn’t for Rick rushing to rescue, she would have likely succumbed to Karen’s cutter. Instead the match continued and the Junior Heavyweight champion continued taking a beating. Karen’s offense was still pretty basic but tremendously effective, as she obtained another near fall with a snap DDT. At some point,, from out of nowhere, Abby surprised the opponent with an inside cradle and almost got away with the win. As they got back to their feet, Blake connected a desperate roundhouse kick that knocked Karen down. Both women started to crawl to the respective corners, making the tag to the respective partners at the exact same moment.
Sick and tired of the Nordhagens’s shenanigans, Big Rick was fighting like a man possessed. He threw Rainer around with a series of suplexes and smacked Karen multiple times with striking combinations and a devastating spear that almost gave him the win. Without a doubt the best performance the fans saw from Benson since he made his debut for the company, but his hearty display was frustrated by another one of the dastardly duo’s tricks. Inside the ring, Rainer distracted the referee while Karen grabbed her infamous purse and smacked Rick on his skull. The referee missed it, but Abby didn’t, and she went to avenge her partner, assaulting Karen. The two women fought outside the ring while the guys went at it inside the ropes. Rick tried to make a comeback and managed to catch Rainer with a spinebuster but it wasn’t enough to keep the young man down.
In hindsight, attacking Karen wasn’t the best choice for the Junior Heavyweight champion. The referee’s focus was, inevitably, on what was happening inside the ring, where the legal competitors were fighting. He couldn’t obviously keep an eye on what was going on between the two ladies, and that would play right in Karen’s hand. Once again her purse was the perfect weapon to kill the opponent’s momentum, leaving Abby sprawled on the concrete floor. Lady Nordhagen then climbed back on the apron and called her husband’s attention, asking for the tag. The former Academy student delivered his Torrential rainer and then let his wife in for the killing blow. A combination of Karen’s Can I Speak To Your Manager to the face and Rainer’s The Last Stand to the back of the skull that left Rick no escape.

WINNER: Rainer & Karen Nordhagen
BY: Pinfall (Can I Speak To Your Manager/The Last Stand), 11:09

The scene opens up inside of a hallway somewhere deep in the bowels of the arena. We see Alex Andrews walking down the hall, loosening up her arms as she walks. She sees the camera there and stops, making eye contact and clearing her throat. Her demeanor is a bit..worn out, to be truthful.

Alex Andrews:
This close. Story of my career so far. I come this close, can't seal the deal.bbLike, I've spent the last year in this company to prove, not only to myself but to the entire world that I belong in the upper echelon in this company, in this business. That my name is said in the same breath as other more...popular names in this business. That's what I want, but it seems I can only get so far before I hit some glass ceiling.

Alex lets out a sigh.

Alex Andrews:
This isn't just a problem I'm having here in MWE, but in other places as well. I get so far, but pushing myself to that next level continues to elude me and its so absolutely frustrating. Because I know what I want. And I know I'm good enough, I KNOW I have the skills, it..just hasn't come together for me yet. So, yeah, I'm frustrated, but you know what? You know one thing about Alex Andrews, you know there is no quit in her. So I'll keep plugging along. I'll keep on keeping on.

Alex rolls her wrists, loosening herself up a bit more.

Alex Andrews:
Which brings me to my next point. My next match. Against Clyde Sutter and Andrew Raynes. Which can't help but make me smile. Why is that? Because we all share a legacy, don't we? All former Riot Champions, consecutively actually. But it tells me one thing, and gives me one shining beacon of hope. Y'all can be beaten. if that weren't the case, you'd be holding that Riot Championship right now, but you're not. I mean, neither am I, but hey, splitting hairs. Like, I could have taken complete offense to losing to Clyde and his rhetoric about time and destiny, but I chose to look at it as a chance to move beyond that title, to grow and show were I stand. I know it won't be an easy night, but you know something? I very rarely ever is with me. But as many of you know, I thrive when back against the wall. I'm quite used to fighting from underneath and being the underdog, this is no different.

She rolls her shoulders and makes sure her wrist tape is secure.

Alex Andrews:
So underestimate me at your own peril, boys. I'm coming for Billy's World title, and I'm not willing to settle for anything less.

And with that, Alex walks off down the hallway and towards the gorilla position.

We open backstage in a dark, damp, creepy boiler room area. A few moments of silence pass before the imposing, menacing figure of “The Assassin” Clyde Sutter steps into view from the right. He is wearing his all black ring gear and a black trenchcoat. A cold, sinister, glare is etched across his face.

Clyde Sutter:
Fate is the master of us all, myself included. I adhere to the wishes of fate. I accept the wishes of fate. This is why you do not see me kicking, screaming, or throwing a tantrum as some have done after their own losses and defeats at Dark Web. Fate smiled down upon my opponent that evening. In fate’s infinite wisdom, it decided not to reward me with the Lockdown Championship. Ms. Lyre, enjoy the reprieve that fate has granted you, because soon your time will be up. Soon fate will no longer smile upon you. Soon fate will decide to strike you down.

The Assassin chuckles.

Clyde Sutter:
Therein lies the problem with most, if not all, professional wrestlers today, especially here in MWE. They falsely believe that they can control their own fate, that they can control their own destiny. The harsh reality is that all of you are doomed, it is just a matter of WHEN and WHERE fate decides to strike you down. Tonight not just one but TWO individuals will be brought before the judgment seat of fate itself…

He sneers.

Clyde Sutter:
...Andrew Raynes and Alex Andrews. Mr. Raynes, Ms. Andrews, this is certainly not the first time we have encountered one another, is it? We have done battle over the Riot Championship. Although this time gold is not on the line. Pride isn’t even on the line. But I can tell you that your mere existence, that is on the line. You see, Mr. Raynes, Ms. Andrews, I am not just an Assassin, I am THE Assassin, I am FATE’s Assassin, and fate has decreed that you will be judged in the only true and fair way that all of creation has been judged since the beginning of time…survival of the fittest. Yes, the whole idea and concept proposed by Charles Darwin, Natural Selection, you will be judged not on your greatness but upon your ability to survive. Can you survive ME? Because on this evening I become your judge, jury, and your executioner.

He smirks nastily.

Clyde Sutter:
And if you find yourself fallen in battle, if you find yourself beaten and decimated at my feet, do not blame me, do not even blame yourself. Blame fate. For it is fate that has judged you unworthy of survival.

Triple Threat Match

Clyde Sutter VS Andrew Raynes VS Alex Andrews

Dark Web V was a rough night for each of these competitors, all three of them came up short in their respective matches. Tonight they had the chance to bounce back, or at least one of them did. The other two will have to take another loss, and you could tell that none of them wanted that.Clyde and Andrew were infamous for their hard hitting style and a certain penchant for violence and the former Riot champion got a taste of it as she was treated like a punching bag by both men. After Andrews rolled out of the ring to regroup, Sutter and Raynes turned on each other and resumed the brawl going back and forth for half a minute in an intense and stiff exchange. Just as The Assassin seemed to be gaining ground, Alex Andrews came back inside the ring and delivered a double dropkick that took down both men. Alex was determined to return the punishment they handed her in the very first minutes of the contest, hitting Raynes with a shining wizard and sliding lariat to Clyde. Although well aware that this was unlikely to be enough, she still tried to make the cover, barely getting a count of two.
Whatever the reason may be, it looked like Clyde and Andrew’s priority was to take Lady Limitless out of the equation. Whenever she was standing and trying to build any sort of momentum, they instantly focused on her and took her down. After getting hit with a strike to the back, The Assassin quickly turned around and leveled Andrews with a lariat. He picked her up, lifted her over his head and violently brought her down on the canvas with his Cruciform Slam. He didn’t even try to pin her, leaving her on her back as he went back to work on Raynes in the corner. The Toughest Out had enough time to recover thanks to Andrews’ distraction and when Sutter came within reach, he kicked him in the stomach and grabbed him with both hands on the neck spinning around and pushing him into the corner. Chops, forearm strikes, kicks.. Andrew hit Clyde with everything he had, including a couple of short range clotheslines. But when he attempted a superplex, he found out what Clyde was really made of as he blocked the attempt and lifted Raynes in the air, dropping him face first onto the canvas. Sutter slowly climbed down and went to finish the job but he was cut off by an Elysium kick from out of nowhere. After flooring the Assassin with her running bicycle kick, Alex then dropped Raynes with the Alex Crusher and made another cover, only obtaining a near fall.
As Raynes took a break out of the ring, Alex and Clyde went at it, and all of a sudden it became crystal clear why Sutter always tried to keep her out of the fray. He had a hard time getting his hands on the BFTB finalist, her speed allowing her to dodge his powerful but slow strikes. After dodging one of those strikes, Alex grabbed a hold of her opponent’s arm and twisted it behind his back. In one fluid motion she moved in front of him and caught his head under her arm, falling backward to plant him with the Queen’s End (hammerlock DDT). Her pinfall attempt was interrupted at one by a dive from Raynes. He unceremoniously threw Andrews out of the ring and blasted the Assassin with his Game Changer (spinning elbow), but it wasn’t enough to keep Sutter down. And when the enforcer got back to his feet, he looked mad as hell.
What happened next was a display of brutality and dominance from Clyde Sutter. Raynes was the first victim of his fury, brutalized with a flurry of hard strikes and ultimately turned inside out with a clothesline from hell. Alex tried to capitalize and wear him down with a sleeper hold but he pushed all the way back into the corner, squashing her and quickly breaking free- He rocked the fan favorite with a back elbow and whipped her in the opposite corner with tremendous force. Andrew arched her back in pain and bounced off upon impact, stumbling right into Clyde’s Unforgiven (claymore kick). Lights out for the former Riot champion, but before he could capitalize, Raynes sneaked behind him and tried to surprise him with a backslide, getting only a two. As it happened quite often in this match, the two men began trading strikes, but this time it was Raynes who got the upper hand, taking Sutter out with a clothesline over the ropes. The momentum carried him along, the two of them landing hard on the concrete floor. But neither one took a moment to recover from the nasty fall, immediately popping to their feet and resuming their back and forth.
With no count outs to limit their time out of the ring and Andrews still sprawled in the middle of the ring after getting knocked down by Sutter’s brutal kick, they had plenty of time to attempt to murder each other. Bodies colliding against barricades, apron, ring post and even steel steps as they used the surrounding environment as a weapon to maximize the damage. Of course pinfalls and submissions couldn’t occur out of the ring but that didn't seem to concern the two men. Sutter drove his shoulder into the opponent’s mid section and pushed him back into the apron, leaving him groaning in pain as he tore off the upper part of the steel steps and threw it aside. He moved the base closer to Raynes and set him up for a Cruciform Slam on top of them but Raynes was able to escape and pushed The Assassin head first into the steel post. It was the perfect occasion for putting a definitive end to Clyde’s ambition for this match, and the Toughest Out wasn’t going to miss it. Picking up Sutter’s body, he lifted him in a powerbomb position and threw him through the announcers’ desk, leaving him lying through a pile of rubble.
Now that the Assassin was down, Raynes could go back in the ring and focus on Alex to pick up what looked like an easy and quite obvious win. Alex, in fact, was still recovering from Clyde’s claymore, slowly starting to stand up with the help of the ropes. The former Chicago Way champion attacked her from behind with his Code Of The Sith but Lady Limitless truly lived up to her moniker, getting her foot on the bottom rope to interrupt the count. She saved herself on that occasion, but her night was not about to get better anytime soon. Raynes kept hitting her like a pinata, leaving her little to no room for any offense. Perhaps this absolute and undisturbed dominance led to an excess of confidence from Raynes who lowered his guard and got caught by Alex’ Mouse Trap, a sudden pinning predicament that gave the young woman a prestigious and, for how this match had turned out to be, unexpected win.

WINNER: Alex Andrews
BY: Pinfall (Mouse Trap), 14:03

The last minute addition to the card, the three-on-three match between APE and Tiffany Lynn-Page against The Division, represented by the LPW Undisputed Tag Team champions Jack Graves and Thatcher Ray Nash with Olly was up next. The camera cut to the Gorilla Position where we saw Duke and his girlfriend Tiffany ready to step in the ring. Their partner, the Lonestar Alan Envy was not there yet, but Andrews reassured his better half saying that his fellow APE member was just "taking a leak".

One of the backstage worker was seen running right behind them, coming back a few seconds later followed by the medical personnel. The camera followed them through the stadium hallways until they reached the locker room area, or rather a specific part of it. Sneaking past the crowd that gathered right outside the restrooms, the camera peeked inside one of the stalls. Laying on the floor with his wrestling trunks pulled down to show his bare rear to the world was none other than Alan Envy himself, likely assaulted from behind while otherwise busy. There was a red stain on the wall where his head impacted, a brutal blow that knocked The Icon out, preventing him from taking part in the match.

Security was asking questions to the people who found him, trying to see if they could provide with any valuable info, due to the obvious absence of cameras in this area. Unsurprisingly, nobody had seen anything. Duke, who just now got on the scene, didn't need to conduct any sort of investigations. He knew exactly who did it, and he was already planning his vengeance. An eye for an eye.

Tag Team Match

APE & Tiffany Lynn-Page VS The Division

With Alan out of the picture, the referee was questioning whether it was fair or not to start this match as a three on two contest. He seemed to be waiting for the General Manager’s decision, trying to stall and defuse an explosive situation. There wasn’t a single doubt in Duke’s mind that The Division took out his partner. And to be honest, that would be something right up their alley. And even though his main suspect was Olly, he asked them to be men enough to come clean and admit what they did. The Liberty Pro Undisputed Tag Team champions Jack Graves and Thatcher Ray Nash strongly rejected the allegations, claiming they didn’t do it. Their partner Olly, instead, stood there in silence with a scowl on his face and his fists clenched. In the blink of an eye he was on top of Andrews, dropping punches to his face with brass knuckles around his fist. It was a brutal beatdown, so sudden and unexpected that even a veteran like Duke was completely taken aback and couldn’t defend himself from. Tiffany tried to do something to help her man but Jack and Thatcher moved in front of her, blocking her way.
They didn’t attack Tiffany, they didn’t help Olly either. Actually, they seemed surprised and possibly uneasy with what they were witnessing, but didn’t dare stop Olly either, feeling that this was in some way cathartic for him after the week he just had. The official tried to separate the two but he got hit as well by Olly’s fury. Security rushed to the scene and finally were able to pull the former Academy student back. Duke was bloodied and beaten up, his face swelling, his eyes semi-closed. As Olly was being dragged away, he screamed that this was “For Faith”, and that was all he said on the matter. The match, obviously, was canceled, Tiffany followed the doctors as they took Andrews backstage to clean him up and attend to his wounds. Not quite the night APE was expecting when they demanded to be booked on the company’s return show.

WINNER: //
BY: //, 0:00

Heading back to ringside, all eyes are on the entrance ramp as “Timebomb” by Motionless in White begins to play. Melissa Reeves slowly strolls out onto the stage, dressed in a leather jacket, with a t-shirt beneath sporting a generic MWE design.

Taking her time, she makes her way out to the ring. There’s no time dedicated to the crowd, no slapping of hands, no smiles. Instead, she simply walks to the ring and climbs the steps, entering and taking a few laps around the ring itself. She’s then handed a microphone, but again is in no rush to actually speak.

A few taps from her fingertips show that the microphone is on, with her then raising it to speak.

Melissa Reeves:
You know…

She lowers the mic again and lets the fans have their voices heard, with rumours swirling about the likely content of her upcoming announcement, based on her recent social media messages. A few signs wave, while others chant her name for a time.

Melissa Reeves:
Yeah, yeah. Enough of that. I know you all think you know what’s coming, but I still wanted to come out here and let you all know where I’m at.

Mel takes a moment to look around.

Melissa Reeves:
Since 2018 I’ve been part of the roster here in Millennium. It’s a long history, and I’ve seen it all. There were times where I’ve been at the very top of the company, the MWE Champion, but those times have come and gone. Still, I’m proud of what I achieved here.

There’s a small smile, albeit brief.

Melissa Reeves:
Nothing stays forever, not in any sport, not in anything. For a long time I’ve felt like I’m swimming against the tide, looking to find those old glory days again, but it’s never happened. This time away has shown me that there’s no point in chasing that anymore.

A few fans groan, perhaps foreseeing an unwanted announcement coming here.

Melissa Reeves:
So, after a lot of consideration, a lot of soul searching…I’ve come to a decision about my time here in MWE, and my career in general. In short, not to dance around it, today marks the end of things for me.

Before she can actually say anything more, the crowd now drown her out. She again waits, taking her time. She lets out a small laugh, shaking her head.

Melissa Reeves:
Stop it, this is needed.

Melissa’s coolness is starting to crack, when Ava Grimes makes her way out. Reeves is puzzled to see her, while Ava looks saddened herself.

Ava Grimes:
Melissa…I’m sorry, but I had to come out, I had to say something. Before you do this, before you retire, I really want to just say that I’ve looked up to you for the longest time and MWE won’t be the same without you. There were times when you carried this place on your back, you’ve given so much time and energy, your body and your mind have withstood so much.

Melissa Reeves:
Ava…

Grimes shakes her head, persisting.

Ava Grimes:
Many see the greatness in you here. Even your enemies, think about it, even they see it because they always wanted to target you as a way to use you as a stepping stone.

Melissa Reeves:
Ava…!

Again, she persists.

Ava Grimes:
And if this is the last time we see you then I just want to say thank you. For being you, for blazing the way, for helping to keep this company on its feet.

Ava looks a little emotional now too. She hugs Mel, who seems hesitant but returns that hug for a moment. With Ava in her arms, Mel raises the microphone again.

Melissa Reeves:
Ava, it’s sweet of you to say that. It means a lot that you see the sacrifices I’ve made.

They part and take a few steps apart from each other. Melissa leans on the top rope, looking out at the crowd, as Ava claps her on.

Melissa Reeves:
She’s right, you know?

She addresses the audience.

Melissa Reeves:
I did blaze the way, I did remain stoic and strong. With or without the title, people did come for me and I’ve never faded into obscurity. Strength unequaled, persistence unparalleled, determination that nobody here can come close to claiming possession of.. But…well, there is one thing I take exception to.

Melissa turns back to Ava, who smiles at Reeves.

Melissa Reeves:
I never said I was retiring.

Ava is confused and goes to say something, when Magnitude Nine (Black Mass) connects! Ava is cut down right where she stands! The fans are in shock. Some boo, some are stunned silent, many gasp at the unforeseen turn of events. Cold and calculating, Melissa looms over the now stricken Grimes. Taking her leather jacket off, Melissa rips her MWE shirt open and lets it drop away, showing off a new design of her own instead. She steps on the MWE shirt, perhaps symbolic of this new attitude she’s taken.

Reaching down, Melissa makes Ava look up at her with a handful of her hair, as she tries to get onto her knees. Ava asks why? Why? Reeves just shakes her head and blasts her with a second Magnitude Nine.

Melissa Reeves:
Why? You dare come out here, get in my business, then ask me why I took you down? Let me ask you a question instead: who the hell are you to interrupt me? Another jumped up hanger on, using her family name to get any traction here. Another flavour of the month type who thinks she can circle my sphere of influence to get herself noticed?

Reeves seems furious now, any calm facade is long gone.

Melissa Reeves:
You stupid girl, you really thought I was out here because I’d given up on my career? That I’d caved in? Leave like that, with my tail between my legs? You come out here to what, pity me? Send me on my way and hug my spotlight on my way out?

She laughs, heartily.

Melissa Reeves:
I don't want your damn pity. I don't need your support. I don't need theirs either. I never have. All the time I’ve spent trying to appease you all and every time someone new shows, every single time there’s a shiny new toy, you go off and spend six months fawning over them, before they inevitably fade away. They come and go, but not me. I AM ETERNAL.

She looks at the crowd again.

Melissa Reeves:
Tonight was never the retirement of Melissa Reeves, only an idiot would think it was. No, tonight was the death of the Melissa Reeves who fights fair but never quite makes it to the finish line anymore. This is the day that marks the rebirth of The Reaver, the plunderer, of Millennium’s Iron Maiden!

Reeves presses her boot into Ava’s back, as she lies motionless beneath. A few security guys arrive but hesitate. The fans boo loudly now and Reeves takes exception to that.

Melissa Reeves:
Shut up you idiots. Your hate means nothing, just like your supposed support never did. I have dedicated YEARS to this place and I’ll be damned if I let myself be overlooked. Never again, no more.

She shakes her head.

Melissa Reeves:
NO. MORE.

She drops the microphone and takes a second to look Ava over, before she rolls from the ring. The security guys move toward her but keep their distance, and she carves through them uninterrupted. Taking a pause, she looks back from the top of the ramp, smirking as the fans now boo her. She scoffs and yells out something about them being fickle idiots, before she heads to the back.

Hardcore Match
Non-Title, Winner chooses the stipulation for the Chicago Way Championship match at the next PPV

Ahalya Patel VS Tiff

You could see it on Tiff’s face, she knew she was in for an uphill battle. fighting the hardcore champion in her natural habitat, but the stipulation would also make any interference or attack from her Division friends perfectly legal. For Ahalya, this was just another day at work. She didn’t seem too worried about Tiff’s resume, or her determination to climb once again the ranks in MWE. The champion was confident in her ability, ready to dish out, and take, as much punishment as was necessary to once again confirm herself as the Queen of Extreme. The match started out slow with a feeling out process, some holds and strikes to test the waters and the opponent’s defense. But it was just the proverbial calm before the storm. Soon weapons came into play and the champ was the first one who introduced them, bringing a steel chair inside the ring. She smacked it on Tiff’s side a couple of times to keep her down before wedging it in the corner between the top and middle rope. She picked up Rollins and tried to launch her head first into the chair but the former Cloud Gate champion read her intentions and prevented it by hitting the champion with a couple of elbows to the ribs. Stealing her idea, she then pushed Patel into the corner but the Indian got her foot on the middle turnbuckle and stopped before the impact. She caught Tiff with a back elbow to the face and, from the second rope, drove her into the ground with a cutter.
The Deathkicker weapon of choice was a baseball bat, one she used with expertise and mastery. A swing into the champ’s midsection to double her over, as Tiff then moved next to her and pressed the bat against her neck, falling back with a russian legsweep.She then dropped the weapon and went for an early Deathkick attempt but this one was dodged by Ahalya who tried to surprise the opponent with a quick roll up, getting a count of two. Getting up to their feet, both women eyed the bat and made a run for it, getting their hands on the weapon at the same time. A tug-of-war began, champion and challenge yanking in opposite directions trying to get control of the weapon, but neither one of them seemed to be budging. Ahalya’s long legs allowed her to kick Tiff in the stomach and make her lose her grip on the bat’s handle. Patel spun it in her hands and swung for the fences but missed the target as Rollins ducked. The longest reigning champion in MWE history took the Indian down with a double leg sweep and began to hammer her with punches to the face. Once again the bat rolled on the canvas but Tiff was quick to grab it and press it on Patel’s throat, trying to choke her. The champ managed to get her legs behind the blonde’s belly and pushed her off.
The ring was far too small to contain their violence, and the fight continued on the outside. The recently repaired commentator’s table became once again the scene of the fight as Patel drove the challenger spine-first into the edge. Grabbing Tiff by her blonde locks, the champion then slammed her face onto the desk several times, leaving the former Cloud Gate champion on her knees, leaning against the table. Ahalya took a moment to taunt her and the fans, reminding everyone that The Division runs MWE and receiving a loud round of boos in return. But indulging in a match like this and with an opponent of this caliber is never a good idea. Tiff had plenty of time to grab one of the monitors and smack it on Ahalya’s head as she went to grab her, opening a wound on the Indian’s forehead. The champion stumbled back, blood dripping down her face and covering her eyes. She wiped some of it away to keep her eye on Rollins, but it was already too late to dodge the Peacemaker. The champ was down and Tiff seized the opportunity to push her back in the ring and hook the leg for a cover, but Patel got her shoulder up in time.
Now in control, The Little Hoss started to rely more on her wrestling skills and less on weapons. Hardcore, after all, was a style she was definitely familiar with, but it wasn’t what she built her name on. Her wrestling skills were the foundation on which she built her historic year-long reign, and they seemed to be working pretty well tonight as well, allowing her to score several near falls throughout the following few minutes. Patel was in a rough spot, the kind of situation where you would expect some of her Division partners to show up and level the playing field. But surprisingly none of them walked out to help her, possibly following the proud Indian’s guideline.The resourceful champion eventually found a way to catch a break, grabbing the challenger by the waistband of her gear and pulling her down, causing her to hit the chair that was still stuck in the corner head first. Patel then yanked it out of the corner and used the weapon to catch up on Tiff, delivering some furious shots to the young woman’s back and side. When she eventually unfolded the chair and set it up near the corner, it was all crooked and wobbly. Still, it worked for what Ahalya had in mind: sitting her opponent on it and charging with a brutal Yakuza kick to the face. The impact caused Tiff to fall back, her head colliding with the middle turnbuckle for extra damage. And yet, it wasn’t enough to keep her down.
Tiff tried to get out of the ring to regroup, but the champion stayed on her trail and blocked her on the edge of the ring. They continued to battle on the apron, an intense exchange in a precarious position- Punches and kicks flew back and forth between the two competitors, and surprisingly enough it was the challenger who came out on top, landing a lucky punch to the jaw that rocked Ahalya. She then executed a DDT, nailing the champion on her skull. Patel fell on the floor below, taking a moment to recover while Rollins stared at her, perched on the apron. When the Indian finally got to her feet, Rollins launched herself toward her with a cannonball from the apron, taking Ahalya once again down. Bringing the fight back in the ring, Tiff attempted a cover but couldn’t get the decisive three count. Looking to deal the final blow, the Five Foot Murder Machine sat the opponent in the corner and positioned the chair right on her face. In her intentions , she was to deliver the Deathkick to the chair and onto Ahalya’s face but Patel threw the same chair onto the charging Tiff, catching her right between the eyes. And now, the blonde was bleeding too.
In the final minutes of the match neither competitor was holding back. Despite being weakened by the blood loss and the general beating they both had taken, and despite the title not being on the line, the two competitors gave everything they had left in the tank to walk out of Phoenix with the win and the chance to choose the stipulation. There were a couple of really close calls, one in particular saw Patel coming an inch away from the three after she put Tiff through a table but the former Cloud Gate champion got her shoulder up at the very last second. But in the end the champion fell, caught by surprise with a small package. An anticlimactic end to a fierce battle maybe, but sometimes, especially in close fights like this where nothing, not even moves that generally do the trick seemed to work, a quick pinning predicament might be the key to success. And this was definitely the case for Tiffany, who now had the advantage of choosing what kind of match she will be facing Ahalya in at the next PPV, when the title will be on the line-

WINNER: Tiff
BY: Pinfall (Small Package), 16:34

Right before the main event, a clip aired on the titantron to remember and celebrate the life and career of Faith Savell, tragically passed away a few days before “From The Ashes” and originally scheduled to compete in the upcoming main event.

Her designated opponent, Alice Wagner, walked out of the curtains to no music, not wanting to interrupt the round of applause the Phoenix fans were tributing to the first Academy Valedictorian. The second generation wrestler looked particularly emotional in what will be her final match in MWE after refusing to sign a new contract due to personal reasons, but the farewell to her many fans wasn’t the reason that brought her to the verge of tears. Faith was her rival and had been so for years since their early Nightfall days, but before that she was a friend despite their differences.

There she was, standing in the middle of the ring waiting to know who her final opponent will be. Her eyes glancing up at the Tron were the picture of Faith Savell was being shown when the image suddenly disappeared, replaced by a clip of a broken pottery being repaired with golden lacquer. The arena buzzes with anticipation as the lights dim in b n nm n m v cm b m n nm nm b n m n a golden color vand the
. B n first notes of “Kintsugi” by Like Moths to Flame echo throughout the entire arena. The Titantron continues to show the clip of the broken pottery being meticulously repaired with the golden lacquer, symbolizing strength through restoration.

As the music hits the chorus, a figure steps out onto the stage with the bright golden lights shining on her. It was none other than Riley Savell! The crowd cheered wildly despite Riley being “The Villain”. Riley paused at the top of the ramp, taking in the atmosphere. You would expect a smile from her with the crowd’s reaction but no, she had a mixture of determination and disdain on her face. Some things never change, right? Riley walks down the ramp with a purpose, her gaze not leaving Alice’s in the middle of the ring. Riley walks up the steps before brushing her feet on the apron and then entering the ring. She grabbed a mic and her music cut away.

Riley Savell
Faith was my little sister. In my family? Surrounded by all of the Savell bullshit and drama? Faith was the light and the hope of our family. Unlike the rest of us, she deserved the good things that this world has to offer. But sometimes, bad things happen to good people. And when that happens? This world? It can break you with grief. It can take everything that you built up and shatter it into a million pieces that can’t be put back together.

Riley’s voice is steady, almost haunting in a way.

Riley Savell
I won’t lie, when Faith died? A part of me died as well. But I’m not going to wallow in grief. Why? Because this entire time that I’ve been gone? I’ve been in Japan. I fought. I bled. I rebuilt myself. Just like kintsugi, I took those broken pieces and made something stronger, something more dangerous. In Japan, I went by Kintsugi Kaze and it isn’t just a name. It’s a statement. It’s who I’ve become.

The audience is silent, as they are captivated by Riley’s words, hanging on every single one. Riley meanwhile, has been walking around the ring as she talks, her eyes now ignoring Alice for the moment.

Riley Savell
I won’t let my little sister’s death drag me back down to the depths of hell, I won’t go back to that place. Instead? I’m going to honor her by finishing the job that she started here in Millennium.

The fans cheered, knowing Riley has signed on the dotted line to be in MWE. Her gaze now meets Alice’s again and it’s almost as if it’s piercing right through Alice.

Riley Savell
You. You were Faith’s rival. You were meant to be her opponent here tonight. And while I’m sure you are feeling some kind of way? It’s time for you to step up and do what needs to be done. Because tonight? I’m fighting you in Faith’s honor and you better give me everything that you’ve got and more.

Alice looked shocked just like everyone else. It’s been years since Riley Savell wrestled a match, at least in the States, and the fact that she chose to do it in MWE, against Wagner on this day of all days was a lot to take in for the Academy graduate. For a few long moments she just stood there in silence, eyes locked wit Riley’s.

Alice Wagner:
I can’t Riley… I’m so sorry.

She suddenly blurted out in a trembling voice.

Alice Wagner:
The only reason why I came here after what happened to your sister is because I wanted to honor her and dedicate to her my last match in MWE. She was my rival, you’re right. We’ve been in competition ever since we started taking the first bumps at Nightfall…

For a fleeting moment, a slight, sad smile appeared on her face.

Alice Wagner:
But before that, she was a friend. Believe it or not, I always admired her, I always looked up to Faith. We may not see things the same way when it comes to certain aspects of this business, but that doesn’t change the fact that I cared about her, more than I ever had the chance to tell her.

Alice took a pause, struggling to keep her emotions in check.

Alice Wagner:
But seeing you here… Under normal circumstances I would be happy to see you back, and I would be thrilled to compete against you., But nothing about tonight feels normal, nothing about it feels right…

As she spoke those words, the Academy graduate took a couple of steps back. Riley takes a deep breath, her eyes locked on Alice. Her voice, though calm, carries an undercurrent of intensity.

Riley Savell:
You're right, Alice. Nothing about tonight feels normal. It's not supposed to. Faith was more than just a rival to you. She was a rival, someone you respected, someone who pushed you to be better. And she felt the same way about you.

Riley steps closer to Alice, her gaze unwavering.

Riley Savell:
Faith would've never admitted it outright, but she respected your talent, your drive. She saw in you the fire that she had. That's why she wanted this match, to face someone who could challenge her, push her to her limits.

Riley's voice softens slightly.

Riley Savell:
But Faith is gone, and we can't change that. What we can do is honor her in the best way we know how—by fighting with everything we have. By showing the world the kind of competitor she inspired us to be.

Riley's eyes bore into Alice's, a mix of determination and empathy.

Riley Savell:
I know you're scared. I know it feels wrong. But tonight isn't about us. It's about Faith. It's about showing the world the respect and admiration we had for her by giving it our all in this ring. She wouldn't want us to hold back. She wouldn't want us to walk away.

She takes a step back, giving Alice some space.

Riley Savell:
So, Alice, fight me. Not because you want to, but because Faith would've wanted you to. Do it for her, and do it for yourself. Prove to everyone, especially to Faith's memory, that you are worthy of this moment. Let's give her the tribute she deserves.

Riley extends a hand towards Alice, offering not just a challenge, but a moment of solidarity.

Riley Savell:
What do you say, Alice? For Faith?"

Those words, as surprising as they were, sounded sincere and touched the right strings. Alice took a deep breath, glanced once again at the image of Faith looking down on her from the tron and reached out, grabbing Riley's hand.

Alice Wagner:
Let's do it.

She said, and the fans erupted in cheers and applause.

Pure Rules Match

Riley Savell VS Alice Wagner

Emotions were still running high after the heartfelt exchange between Riley Savell and Alice Wagner. The stadium watched in a respectful, almost sacred silence as the referee explained the rules of the match. Alice offered a handshake to begin the match, the Original Villainess didn’t hesitate to grab it and return the courtesy. Not really something you’d expect from Riley but a testament of the spirit of this contest. It wasn’t just Alice’s final match in MWE, it wasn’t about Riley’s return after years spent in Japan. It was all that and more importantly a tribute to Faith Savell, a sister, a rival, a friend, a life and a career cut too short by a tragic destiny. There was a loud and heartfelt round of applause as the bell rang and the two competitors began to circle each other, eventually locking up in a clinch position. What happened next was a masterclass in technical wrestling. For over a minute Riley and Alice were entangled in an unending series of holds, Transitions and counters from either girl were just so smooth and flawless that the whole exchange seemed almost choreographed, keeping the fans entranced until they burst out in another round of applause when Riley took Alice to the ground with a headlock takedown and the Academy graduate escaped it with a kip up. Now on their feet, the two competitors just stared in each other’s eyes, acknowledging the other with a respectful nod..
Now that the studying phase was over, it didn’t take long for this match to kick into high gear. Sent into the ropes with an Irish whip, Savell bounced back with a bicycle kick that caught Alice by surprise, knocking her on her back. The Villain went for a springboard moonsault but this time Wagner saw it coming and got her knees up, making Riley’s landing quite painful. The former Liberty Gotham champion clutched her ribs in pain, rolling on the floor trying to get out of the ring. Wagner tried to get her but she wasn’t fast enough and the Icon In Infamy quite literally slipped through her fingers. The young prodigy wasted no time and grabbed the bottom rope to go for a pescado. Somehow she was able to read Riley’s intentions to move out of the way and managed to correct her trajectory, landing on the apron. Even Savelll seemed surprised by her opponent’s reflexes and quick thinking. Before she knew it, Alice was already flying toward her, ready to catch her with a headscissors that sent Riley flying into the barricade, connecting with her shoulder into the barrier.
As the match returned inside the ropes, Alice maintained control with some holds targeting the possibly injured shoulder. A wise strategy from the young girl who accomplished to both limit the Villain’s offense and do some damage to her arm. This became clear when Savell tried to turn the tide with a right hand, but her punch was too weak to trouble Wagner. Actually, it almost hurt Riley more than it did Alice, and the Academy graduate was quick to take Riley down with a single arm DDT, doing some more damage to that injured shoulder. With another smooth transition the talented second generation wrestler shifted into an armbar, forcing Riley to quickly drag herself toward the ropes and spend the first of three breaks she was allowed to use.. Wagner seemed satisfied with that outcome, instantly releasing the hold and preparing herself for another round of offense. As they locked up, Alice grabbed the opponent’s wrist and quickly caught her with a jumping armbar, putting her back into another dangerous spot. Not wanting to “waste” a second rope break so close to the first one, Riley tried to escape but the grip around her arm only seemed to tighten, causing her to groan in pain. Unable to escape, Riley then attempted something different, shifting her weight with great effort and managing to pin Alice’s shoulders to the canvas, forcing her to release the hold in order to kick out.
Those more familiar with Riley’s wrestling style during the early years of her career would notice an evolution in her craft with the addition of several puroresu style strikes implemented in her moveset during the time spent in Japan. A quick flurry of low kicks punctuated by the occasional stiff forearm strike to the face, brough Alice down to her knees. Savell then swung her leg, connecting with the Bazusō Kick (buzzsaw kick) that knocked the blue-haired girl down to the canvas. Savell immediately went for a cover but Alice spent one of her rope breaks to get out of it. Seemingly wanting to beat Riley at her own game, Alice then fought back with a striking sequence of her own, ending it with the trademark downward roundhouse kick. Savell’s face bounced off the canvas, leaving the former Liberty Gotham champion dazed. Wagner tried to pin her with a Magistral Cradle but the Villain got her shoulder up in time.
Now that the initiative was in Alice’s hands, the pace of the match notably increased. Dropping the effective striking style, Wagner used her speed and agility to wear down Riley with spectacular high-flying moves, coming very close to the three count with a top rope blockbuster, from which the Villain barely kicked out. In a game of “whatever you can do I can do better” Savell then showed some athleticism of her own, hitting the opponent with the Icon Elbow. As Alice hit the ground Riley took a short run and leaped on top of the opponent with a running shooting star press but it still wasn’t enough to beat the former Academy student down. We just surpassed the 18 minutes mark, and there was no sign of slowing down in either competitor. Actually, this was the moment they produced their maximum effort in an attempt to get that decisive edge that will lead them to victory. Back and forth they went, trading lightning quick pinning predicaments that kept the referee quite busy counting all the times one of them had their shoulders down. It seemed that every reversal went a little bit closer to the three. Rolling and jockeying for position, the two rivals ended up with both their shoulders on the mat, entangled in some kind of cradle. At this point the official started a double count, almost getting to the three without either competitor being able to raise a shoulder. The only thing that avoided what would’ve been a disappointing draw ending was that one foot of each competitor was touching the ropes, thus invalidating the count and bringing the tally of rope breaks up to two each.
The pace slowed down as the two competitors switched back to a more technical approach.For a few more minutes they delighted the crowd with an impressive display of their skills, seemingly trying to one up the other with suplexes of increasing complexity and beauty.We went from Riley’s rolling German suplex to Alice’s butterfly, from Savell’s dragon variation to Wagner’s Millennium Suplex.None of those attempts was enough, although one actually came very close to seal the deal. At some point, Alice caught Riley and lifted her for a bridging northern lights suplex. After barely kicking out Riley looked at Alice with eyes wide open. Everything about it, from the set up to the smooth transition into a pinning predicament was a call to her late sister, a beautiful imitation to Faith’s trademark move, as close as it gets to the original. A heartfelt tribute from Wagner to her originally scheduled opponent, her long-time rival and friend Faith Savell. Time seemed to freeze for a moment, Riley was still sitting on the canvas looking at Alice who was staring back at her with misty eyes, wiping that single tear that broke out of the corner of her eye.The fans just looked in respectful silence, understanding the seriousness of the moment. Finally Riley seemed to shake herself out of that trance and stood back to her feet.
The match eventually resumed with the two wrestlers grappling for the umpteenth time. Perhaps it was fatigue, perhaps the emotions getting the best of her but Wagner seemed to be losing ground, allowing Riley to take the initiative and launch her final offensive. Her kicks and strikes were finding their mark way more easily through Alice’s defense. The former Academy student seemed to have suddenly lost her focus, as if her emotions got the best of her and caused her to drop her guard. Savell scored another near fall with her V-Trigger, but Wagner was able to get her shoulder up just in the nick of time. But the momentum now was clearly on Riley’s side and the Villain was not letting this opportunity go. She kept clubbing Wagner with heavy blows, once again showcasing her great striking ability and eventually got her in the corner, where she continued the onslaught. With Wagner now sitting against the lower turnbuckle, Savell delivered a brutal running knee strike that knocked the blue-haired girl down. She dragged her a few feet away, back toward the center of the ring and climbed to the top rope. She stood there for a moment, bending her head slightly back to look at the sky over Phoenix. She raised both arms, fingers pointing to the stars above. The message was clear, this was her homage to Faith: The Masterpiece, the 630 Senton that gave the Masterclass so many wins. And tonight, it gave Riley Savell her first win in MiWE.

WINNER: Riley Savell
BY: Pinfall (The Masterpiece), 24:55

MWE Presents: From The Ashes (night 1)

Post by gvb on Jun 27, 2024 1:36:03 GMT -6

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