Post by gvb on Jan 25, 2019 20:49:34 GMT -6
Riot in Nebraska
Live from Pershing Center in Lincoln, NE
Friday ,January 25th, 2019
It's a pandemonium inside the Pershing Center as soon as the show comes to life. Seven thousand people chanting Riot on top of their lungs, colored lights dancing all over the entrance stage, the show logo floating on the giant screen filled the few seconds before "Riot" by Three Days Grace blasts through the PA system. The camera pans all over the fans, bringing us to the commentary table.
Zackary Dyson: "Good evening ladies and gentlemen and welcome to the second episode of Riot!"
Alyx Valero: "I'm Alyx, sitting next to me my partner in crime Zackary Dyson. So tell me Zack, which match are you looking forward the most?"
Zackary Dyson: "Easy pal. The first main event under the invictus rules, Dean Smith versus Cole Gregory."
Alyx Valero: "Good choice, but for me? I can't wait to see Dakota Lockard taking on Nikki Knight. We're talking about big names here, guys that can really take Riot to the next level!"
Zackary Dyson: "Not bad for a 'b-show' right?"
Alyx Valero: "B-show my ass..."
Zackary Dyson: "Exactly. And if you don't believe us? All you gotta do is sit down, grab yourself a drink and enjoy the ride. We're in Lincoln, Nebraska, and we're..."
Alyx Valero: "READY TO RIOT!"
Zackary Dyson: "Good evening ladies and gentlemen and welcome to the second episode of Riot!"
Alyx Valero: "I'm Alyx, sitting next to me my partner in crime Zackary Dyson. So tell me Zack, which match are you looking forward the most?"
Zackary Dyson: "Easy pal. The first main event under the invictus rules, Dean Smith versus Cole Gregory."
Alyx Valero: "Good choice, but for me? I can't wait to see Dakota Lockard taking on Nikki Knight. We're talking about big names here, guys that can really take Riot to the next level!"
Zackary Dyson: "Not bad for a 'b-show' right?"
Alyx Valero: "B-show my ass..."
Zackary Dyson: "Exactly. And if you don't believe us? All you gotta do is sit down, grab yourself a drink and enjoy the ride. We're in Lincoln, Nebraska, and we're..."
Alyx Valero: "READY TO RIOT!"
The cameras cut to the backstage area as we are kicking off the second edition of Riot and we are focused directly upon Olivia Mercer who stands besides Riot’s backstage interviewer, Camari Hayre, who Liv had requested to interview her after she promised to bring in a victory in her debut match last week. Unfortunately for Liv things had not gone the way she had predicted, but still she wanted to use her opportunity to speak to her full advantage. Liv is dressed in her ring gear as she looks over towards Camari who is holding onto a microphone.
Camari Hayre:
Last week was your big debut on Riot and it ended up in a loss that most have said you deserved considering you were getting some outside help from your boyfriend at ringside. Do you feel those people are accurate in their opinions?
Liv rolls her eyes a little bit as she holds up one hand in response to the question.
Liv Mercer:
I lost because of a roll up and that referee had a clear bias towards the Barbie doll. Oz was only trying to be helpful and look at how he was repaid for that kindness? He was treated like some kind of annoyance at ringside rather than the true support system he has been for me since day one. You know me Camari, you know how respectful I can be, and if it wasn’t for that referee I would have ended her undefeated streak making it clear she was never hot shit to begin with. She got lucky, that’s all there is to what happened last week.
As she is speaking, Liv takes her hand that she had been holding up, and presses it against her chest.
Liv Mercer:
At least tonight I have a chance to rectify the huge injustice against me when I kick off the show going up against Tiny Des. I’m not even insulted to be the first match on the card, that just means everyone else is going to have to follow in my footsteps, and that’s not a talent that just anyone can possess. Such a shame for Tiny there that she’ll be the one to take that loss so I can start my collection of wins here on Riot. That’s the true beauty of my debut loss. I can shake it off, and make it even bigger waves, and the world is going to remember the name Liv Mercer as Brooklyn Barbie fades into obscurity with only her win to keep her company.
Camari Hayre:
So there’s no doubt in your mind that you’re going to walk away with the victory here tonight against Tiny Des?
Liv Mercer:
Doubt is for the weak, Camari. Tiny might have herself some championship gold under her belt and her brother’s name to pad her resume a little bit more, but I came here with every intention of turning Riot into The Liv Show. I can’t let anyone stop me from achieving that goal. I will win tonight, very soon, and after that we can go and paint the town red in celebration.
Liv smirks a little bit as she points to Camari’s hair to further emphasis her point about the color red as the interviewer laughs in response before nodding her head.
Camari Hayre:
Another girls night? I love it!
Liv Mercer:
The party never stops when Liv’s in town. Now excuse me, but I need to moonwalk my way to that victory, and as you can see I kept it completely profesional during our time together unlike some of the others on the Millenium roster.
Liv laughs as she takes the hood of her hoodie and flips it over her head with a little bit of a wink towards Camari. Liv turns on her heels, looking over towards where her boyfriend Oz Dalton is waiting on her to join him so they can make their way out to the ring, and with almost no effort at all she does a little moonwalk that takes her right off the screen as we cut away.
Singles Match
Liv Mercer VS Tiny DesThe second episode of Riot kicked off with an interesting match up between Liv Mercer and Tiny Des. Olivia came off a loss in her debut match against The Brooklyn Barbie, who capitalized on a distraction with a quick roll up when the referee sent off her manager and boyfriend after catching trying to interfere. Destiny Figgins instead managed to get a win in South Dakota after a hard fought battle against the former [R]evo tag team champion Tobie Nox Thorne. Without a doubt, the fans tonight were firmly behind Tiny Des, whose greater experience soon became a factor in this match. After a good start from Liv in fact, Figgins turn things around when, after an irish whip from the opponent, she was able to step on the ropes and run on the top turnbuckle, backflipping over the charging Mercer’s head and landing behind her back. She quickly followed with a dropkick that sent her in the corner, charging with a corner back elbow. Liv stumbled out of the corner, catching Destiny in a side slam position but once again the Kansas city born had a counter, planting her with a satellite DDT. She then tried a quick cover, but Mercer kicked out. To find a break from the constant attack from Tiny Des, Liv rolled out of the ring. Oz quickly reached her and put an arm around her shoulder, whispering something in her ear, comforting words or possibly a new strategy. Des hit the ropes and launched herself against the couple with a suicide dive, but Oz pushed his girlfriend away, taking the bullet for her. And Liv made sure his sacrifice didn’t go in vain, grabbing Destiny and tossing her against the barricade, reaching her there and viciously stomping her multiple times. The referee invited her to bring the action back in the ring, continuing his count that had now reached four. Olivia picked up the opponent and whipped her against the ring post before rolling her back on the apron, positioning her so that her head was dangling and drove her leg across her upper chest before finally rolling back in the ring and trying the cover. Liv was now in control, having the opponent on her knees and locked in a dragon sleeper. Somehow Des broke free of the submission and caught the opponent with a couple of right forearm shots that rocked the blonde girl, a week comeback immediately frustrated by a kick in the gut from Liv, who then grabbed hold of her wrists and crossed the arms around her neck, violently driving her down with a straight jacket neckbreaker slam. wrapping her legs around Destiny’s head applying her LIV Lock, a modified figure four headlock. Tiny Des struggled but eventually was able to escape the submission. Despite all the punishment she had been through,out of nowhere Tiny Des turned the momentum with her patented leg lariat The Leveler, finding the strength for a top rope moonsault, but it wasn’t enough to put Liv away. As Mercer slowly started trying to stand up, Figgins took a few steps back, ready to go for the Tiny Hammer. Aware of the danger his girlfriend was in, Oz started yelling and climbed on the apron. The referee’s and Des’ attention was drawn away by Dalton, for as long as it took Liv to get up and driving her opponent’s face on the sole of her boot with her Stay Grounded (Inverted Stomp Facebreaker) walking out with her first win in Riot. WINNER: Liv Mercer BY: Stay Grounded, 9:20 |
??:
Are we certain about this?
The scene cuts inside the General Manager's office. The voice, so calm and yet so authoritative, typical of someone who's used to command, belongs to the owner of Millennium, the Diamond Princess herself Grace van Beek. Standing next to her is her loyal bodyguard, Ryen Riekert. At the opposite side of the desk sits Yulia Kirilenko, the General Manager of Riot. Gianluigi Vaccaro, the man in charge of the green roster is sitting at her right. He's the one Grace is referring to.
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
I'm positive miss van Beek. Under these circumstances, I don't see any other way.
Yulia Kirilenko:
Grace...
The young South African quickly turned her attention to the russian girl. It's no secret that the former Cloud Gate champion demands to be formally addressed by her last name, and we could almost hear her saying that phrase "It is miss van Beek to you" that we heard her pronounce oh so many times. But not today, not Yulia. For some reasons the GM of Riot was excepted from this strict rule.
Yulia Kirilenko:
I want this company to thrive as much as you do. Believe me, this is the right choice.
Grace stares at her in silence for a few long moments.
Grace van Beek:
I was not convinced by this second brand, but I trust mister Vaccaro, and he trusts you Yulia.
She finally speaks up.
Grace van Beek:
I shall talk with him. Ryen...
She glances back at the Head of Security.
Grace van Beek:
Call him, schedule a meeting, with the utmost urgency.
Riekert nods, pulling out his phone and swiping his finger on the screen, tapping to start the call. The camera then fades to the next segment.
Are we certain about this?
The scene cuts inside the General Manager's office. The voice, so calm and yet so authoritative, typical of someone who's used to command, belongs to the owner of Millennium, the Diamond Princess herself Grace van Beek. Standing next to her is her loyal bodyguard, Ryen Riekert. At the opposite side of the desk sits Yulia Kirilenko, the General Manager of Riot. Gianluigi Vaccaro, the man in charge of the green roster is sitting at her right. He's the one Grace is referring to.
Gianluigi Vaccaro:
I'm positive miss van Beek. Under these circumstances, I don't see any other way.
Yulia Kirilenko:
Grace...
The young South African quickly turned her attention to the russian girl. It's no secret that the former Cloud Gate champion demands to be formally addressed by her last name, and we could almost hear her saying that phrase "It is miss van Beek to you" that we heard her pronounce oh so many times. But not today, not Yulia. For some reasons the GM of Riot was excepted from this strict rule.
Yulia Kirilenko:
I want this company to thrive as much as you do. Believe me, this is the right choice.
Grace stares at her in silence for a few long moments.
Grace van Beek:
I was not convinced by this second brand, but I trust mister Vaccaro, and he trusts you Yulia.
She finally speaks up.
Grace van Beek:
I shall talk with him. Ryen...
She glances back at the Head of Security.
Grace van Beek:
Call him, schedule a meeting, with the utmost urgency.
Riekert nods, pulling out his phone and swiping his finger on the screen, tapping to start the call. The camera then fades to the next segment.
Standing backstage happens to be one of the members of the Riot! roster, Franky Harris. Harris is already in his gear to compete this evening, and standing next to him is his manager, Charlotte Webster. Miss Webster is clad in almost business attire, grey skirt, white blouse and a grey blazer with black heels on. She has a smile on her face, brushing her blonde locks away.
CHARLOTTE WEBSTER:
Good evening, Riot fans. My name is Charlotte A. Webster, and I am the agent and manager for one Mr. Franky Harris. Mr. Harris has spent time competing around the midwest, so his name should be familiar to the fans in our arena this evening.
Franky nods but puts his head down, a little shy of the camera. Charlotte continues on.
CHARLOTTE WEBSTER:
Tonight, he makes his debut against Ozzie Savell. Mr. Savell comes from a well known wrestling family that has left a mark and legacy all over this business. While Mr. Harris is unable to express his thoughts due to a speech impediment, as he feels he would be mocked for it should he speak on camera, we discussed this match earlier today.
Franky again nods and tries to appear tough and menacing for the camera.
CHARLOTTE WEBSTER:
Mr. Harris said to me earlier today that he wasn’t sure if Mr. Savell can match his older siblings in terms of wrestling ability, at least yet anyways. Mr. Harris has been competing in the midwest for a couple of years now, and knows what these fans come to see on a nightly basis. He doesn’t think Mr. Savell will be well liked in a conservative part of the country with his tattoos and lifestyle choices.
She pauses for a moment before going on.
CHARLOTTE WEBSTER:
However, he is not quick to dismiss Mr. Savell from perhaps using the same underhanded tactics that made his older brother into somewhat of a household name. This is his debut for a big time promotion tonight, and after some time wrestling in front of 50 to 200 people, he feels like this is his real debut this evening in front of a sold out arena. Mr. Harris wishes you luck tonight, Mr. Savell.
A smile forms on her face once more.
CHARLOTTE WEBSTER:
“The Beef” wants to use you to show that powerful wrestlers still have a place in this sport in 2019. Bring your “A” game, Mr. Savell, as Mr. Harris will certainly do the same this evening.
Franky “The Beef” Harris gives the camera a quick flex before walking off with Miss Webster.
Singles Match
Franky Harris VS Ozzie SavellThe 6’1’’, three hundred pounder Franky Harris was waiting inside the ring, his manager giving him the last advice before his debut in Riot. And the fans were looking forward to see The Beef in action, against the always peculiar Ozzie Savell. Then “Wonderful Life” by Bring Me The Horizon blares out of the loudspeakers, and the youngest Savell walked out of the curtain, staggering and with a bottle of whiskey in hand, clearly not fit to compete. The fans booed loudly, annoyed by the unprofessional behavior of Oz. But way more upset than them was Yulia Kirilenko, who stood up from her position at ringside and walked toward him. If look could kill, Ozzie would be dead already. She got in his face, yelling what we can only assume weren’t nice word in Russian, snatching the bottle out of his hand and calling for security to drag him away. Shaking her head, she went back to the ring, stepping between the ropes and issuing an apology to the fans who came to Lincoln, those watching at home and, last but not least, to Franky and his manager, Charlotte. WINNER: Franky Harris BY: Forfait, 0:00 |
The scene opens to an extreme closeup on Brendan Callaghan’s face, grinning.
Brendan Callaghan:
Can you see me?
The camera quickly zooms out as he starts waving at it. In his hand, there is, of course, a half-eaten taco. He wipes his mouth with the back of his other hand before speaking—but not before he lets out a loud belch.
Brendan Callaghan:
Whoa! Now that’s a deep one! I felt it right here in ma bell-eh! Woo! Feelin’ good!
With a satisfied smile, he pats his stomach then looks up as the camera continues to adjust the framing.
Brendan Callaghan:
Okay, can you see me now? Perfect? Okay, roll it!
Winking, he does a finger-gun pose with his taco.
Brendan Callaghan:
Oh, you mean it’s already rolling? Well, why didn’t you say so?
With a wave, he steps too close to the camera again and addresses it, suddenly switching to his not-at-all-indoor voice.
Brendan Callaghan:
WELCOME TO RIOT, BABY!! OR AS SOME PEOPLE LIKE TO CALL IT, THE B SHOW!!
Jade Night, Brendan’s girlfriend and manager walks into the scene, her always serious demeanor is etched on her face.
Jade Night:
And that B stands for Brendan…
Jade speaks in a monotone voice before glancing over at Brendan and rolling her eyes.
Jade Night:
There, I said it. Can we get back to focusing on your match now?
But Brendan just gapes at her before yelling in sheer excitement.
Brendan Callaghan:
THAT’S EXACTLY WHAT IT STANDS FOR! BRENDAN!
He looks over at his girlfriend with almost child-like admiration.
Brendan Callaghan:
You really do get me…
Tobie walks onto screen and breezes past Jade, laying her no attention she smiles at Brendan and waves in greeting.
Tobie Nox Thorne:
Brendan! Hiiiiiii! Are you excited about tonight? This is my first time doing the, invictus rules thing and I am quite excited that we will get to compete. The fans are going to have such a good time tonight.
For a second, Brendan looks confused when she mentions “invictus rules” because he forgets things and more often than not, he doesn’t pay enough attention to the important stuff.
Brendan Callaghan:
Uhhh yeah… sure… uhh GOOD TIME! And yes Tobie, I’m excited! Are YOU excited? I’m just happy to be here. Right, Jade? We’re happy to be here and tonight, we’re gonna do what we do best and that’s—
He pauses, frowning slightly. He clears his throat before resuming his “show host” persona with a big smile.
Brendan Callaghan:
Entertain! Have fun! Do whatever! Becaaaaauseee it’s the BRENDAN SHOW!
He gives the camera a cheesy grin and motions for it to zoom in to his pearly whites as well. Tobie places her hand on the camera to stop it from zooming in and smiles sweetly at Brendan.
Tobie Nox Thorne:
Maybe you are confused, but this is not the “B”
She pauses to use air quotes and shake her head.
Tobie Nox Thorne:
Show.
It’s RIOT! And Yulia has been working very hard to give us this opportunity, I do not think it is very kind of you to try and take ownership of her show like this. Besides, if Grace finds out, she may take all the tacos out of catering to punish you.
Brendan freezes as his face goes pale.
Brendan Callaghan:
She wha— she’d never do that… could she? Would she? I mean, it’s just cruel…
Tobie nods quickly and points to the half eaten taco in his hand.
Tobie Nox Thorne:
That. Could be the last taco you ever eat on this show again!
He stares at the taco in horror.
Brendan Callaghan:
Oh no, not this one!
He turns to Tobie.
Brendan Callaghan:
I’m so young! There’s still more tacos left in the world! Who’s gonna eat them if not me??!
Next, he turns to Jade, dramatically grabbing her by the shoulders as he laments.
Brendan Callaghan:
WHAT ARE WE GONNA DO, JAAAAADE???
Jade places her hands on Brendan’s and move them off of her shoulders.
Jade Night:
Brendan! Who gives a shi—
Jade pauses as she keeps Brendan’s hands in hers while she takes a deep breath, trying to be patent.
Jade Night:
You don’t have to worry about it because I will always make sure you have tacos. So take that off of your mind, alright babe? Focus on beating Tobie later, which you should have no problem doing after what we’ve gone over, right?
Jade glances over at Tobie and gives her a fake smile. Tobie once again, completely ignores Jade and smiles up at Brendan with a small nod.
Tobie Nox Thorne:
We will have a great match Brendan and, just like we planned, after we will get tacos. Because good competition is about being a good sportsman and I know that we are both more than capable of that.
Moving around Jade she places her hand on Brendan’s shoulder with a bright smile.
Tobie Nox Thorne:
Good luck!
She then turns and starts walking away.
Brendan Callaghan:
Sounds great! Good luck to you too!
Brendan waves goodbye to Tobie but Jade quickly grabs his hand and moves it down before scoffing and rolling her eyes. The scene then cuts away.
Singles Match
Invictus Rules
Brendan Callaghan VS Tobie Nox ThorneInvictus Rules
After a couple of weeks of intense training aimed at perfectioning her striking ability, Tobie Nox Thorne was now ready to fight her first match under the Invictus rules. Her opponent was Brendan Callaghan, someone who was already familiar in this type of match, despite coming up short against Cole Gregory last week. First Round: The two contenders took it easy in this first round, mostly studying each other. Brendan tried to measure Tobie’s defense with some kicks, while TNT was mostly defending herself, waiting for the opportunity to counterattack. Encouraged by his manager, Callaghan tried a different approach, forcing Thorne to run whipping her against the ropes and taking her down with a dropkick. He was looming over ready to strike when the French girl caught him in her guard, wrapping her legs tightly around his waist. She connected a few forearm shots while Brendan desperately tried to roll on a position of advantage,but all his attempts of passing the guard were unsuccessful. From the position of advantage, Tobie locked him in a choke squeezing with all her strength in an attempt to submit the opponent. Brendan was struggling, but the more he tried to wiggle free, the tighter TNT’s hold became. The referee was paying close attention, ready to stop the match if Brendan passed out. But, as they say, Nathan’s son was saved by the bell. Judges Scores Kirilenko: Thorne 10-9 Dyson: Thorne 10-9 Valero: Thorne 10-9 Second Round: The unanimous adverse verdict and the awareness that, should the round have lasted a little longer he would have tapped or passed out, pushed Callaghan to a radical change of strategy. He charged at Tobie with a bicycle kick right after the bell, catching the young girl by surprise. Tobie was down and this time Brendan stomped her, avoiding being caught in her guard. TNT eventually rolled out of the way and pulled herself up, sidestepping at the very last second avoiding a jumping knee. And once again the two competitors started moving in circles, looking for the perfect opportunity to deal their ko blow. Tobie knocked her opponent down with a spinning heel kick, but Brendan quickly pulled himself up with the help of the ropes. She charged at him with a corner clothesline, but he raised his boot and stopped her momentum, positioning himself to the second rope and diving with a Tornado DDT. Tobie protected herself the best way she could from his attacks, surviving until the bell rang. Although, there were no doubts about who won this round Judges Scores Kirilenko: Callaghan 10-9 Dyson: Callaghan 10-9 Valero: Callaghan 10-9 Final Round: The third and final round, the last chapter of this fight that most definitely had the fans on the edge of their seats. Brendan started it the same way he kicked off round two, but this time Tobie was ready and moved away, moving behind his back and planting him with a reverse rana. She then worked him on the mat, trying to apply an armlock. Brendan fought back desperately, rolling her on her shoulders and, with Tobie still hanging on his arm, lifting her and powerbombing against the turnbuckle. He followed with a running knee, going for a bulldog that Tobie avoided by pushing him away, following up with a superkick straight to the chin. Brendan was down but not out. Slowly getting back to his feet, he saw out of the corner of his eye Tobie charging at him with a shining wizard, protecting his head at the very last moment raising his arms. Tobie’s leg seemed to have the worse after the impact, as she started limping. Brendan noticed it and, as soon as he recovered, started targeting it with some kicks. Despite the pain every strike brought her, Tobie fought back with a vicious haymaker, but eventually Callaghan caught her in a rolling leglock. Through the excruciating pain, the French girl reached the ropes, which, under the invictus rules, didn’t grant her the break she needed. She used her free leg to kick him, hoping he would release the hold which he eventually did. Eventually they both made it to their feet, ready to engage once again when the bell rang. Tobie and Brendan, under the thunderous applause of the fans, turned to the judges, waiting for the verdict. Judges Scores: Kirilenko: Thorne 10-9 Dyson: Callaghan 10-9 Valero: Thorne 10-9 WINNER: Tobie Nox Thorne BY: Judges Decision, Round 3; 5:00 |
Backstage at the Pershing Center we see “The Takedown Artist” Gabriel Hooke walking the halls. He’s already in his ring gear, an air-brushed singlet with matching headband. He appears to be looking for someone, stopping one of the staff that passes him.
Gabriel Hooke:
Excuse me, have you seen -
He looks off camera briefly, then back to the PA.
Gabriel Hooke:
Nevermind. I see her.
He takes a few more steps and then speaks to someone still not in frame.
Gabriel Hooke:
Finally. We need to talk.
The camera pans to the right, revealing Gabe’s tag team partner for the night, Zakari Wiley. Zakari is also dressed in her ring gear for the night, a crop top, and matching tights, with tassels hanging from the bottom of the leg portion. The young woman also has her signature Sunglasses/Goggles on which covers part of her face, like her own version of a mask. She stops talking to some guy in a grey hoodie whose face can’t be seen, to turn around and throw a finger up at Gabriel as if to say ‘One minute please’. After reaching into her pocket for a wad of cash she hand it to the man prompting him to hand her a brown paper bag. The Black Shadow shakes the man's hand before sending him off, as she faces Gabriel.
Zakari Wiley:
What do you want Garrett? Shouldn't you be like running drills or practicing moves or something?
Hooke doesn’t answer. Instead he looks down at the bag. He debates whether or not to broach the topic, ultimately deciding to.
Gabriel Hooke:
What’s in there?
He gestures to the bag. She raises an eyebrow and lifts the bag close to his face. She shakes it and looks around before pulling him in close and placing her arm around him.
Zakari Wiley:
See unlike you I came up with an actual game plan. I'm going to make sure we don't lose to those thots. That's all you need to know. Good enough for you?
Gabriel looks doubtful. And suspicious. And a little offended. He pulls away from Wiley.
Gabriel Hooke:
I had a plan. It was to train together and watch tape of our opponents. You blew that off. So, no, you telling me not to worry isn’t good enough for me. It has the exact opposite effect actually. Now, I am worried. So again, what’s in the bag?
He folds his arms across his chest and glares at her. A few moments pass where the two are just staring at each other. Finally she breaks the silence with a groan as she rolls her eyes.
Zakari Wiley:
Jeez. Calm down. I watched the tape on them. I always study my opponent. It makes finessing them easier. But if it makes you feel any better I'll show you what it is.
Wiley looks around a few more times before reaching into the bag and pulling out a pair of brass knuckles. She quickly returns the weapon to its home, careful not to let anyone see.
Zakari Wiley:
See there. Nothing too bad. Are you happy now. All you have to do Is tag me in. One punch. And nighty night. Not a bad plan right?
Gabriel is aghast. He shakes his head vehemently.
Gabriel Hooke:
No. You are not bringing those to the ring. We will not cheat to win this match. We’re just going to have to play the hand we’re dealt with, or that you dealt us, and hope we can beat Wythe and Levi fairly and squarely.
Zakari stops walking and takes her arm off of him. She laughs loudly before shoving the brass knuckles in her pants and starts to walk away from him.
Zakari Wiley:
Relax. You're off the Hook Hooke. We've got this whole match….. in the bag.
And with that La Sombra Negro makes her way down the corridor and out of sight. Gabriel, clearly frustrated, watches her go.
Tag Team Match
Olivia Wythe & Levi VS Zakary Wiley & Gabriel Hooke
The fans in Lincoln welcomed with a deafening roar the duo of Olivia Wythe and Levi, whose popularity was constantly growing amongst the Millennium fans. Hooke and Wiley were waiting for them inside the ring, exactly how we left them backstage: arguing. Zakari threw her arms in the air and shook her head, walking on the apron and leaving Gabriel inside the ring to face Olivia. But before the match officially started, Hooke asked the referee to check Zakari once again, convinced that she didn’t get rid of the brass knuckle as he wanted. A bit surprised, the ref called La Sombra Negro back in the ring and started patting her, finding no trace of any foreign object. Zakari rolled her eyes, turning to her partner and mouthing a colorful variant of “I told you so” before going back on the apron. Finally the match started, and it was a joy for those who love a good grappling contest between two very technical wrestlers. Wythe had him in a wrist lock, but Hooke rolled through, bent backwards and eventually broke free, taking Olivia down with a drop toe hold, applying an ankle lock. Wythe immediately was back to her feet and reached the ropes, getting a clean break from the sportsmanlike Minnesota born. Once again the two locked up in the center of the ring, and this time it was Olivia coming up on top from the exchange, sliding behind Hooke and performing a beautiful Tiger Suplex. Gabriel landed close to his team’s corner, with Zakari taking the chance to tag herself in. Zakari brought her speed into this match, hitting Wythe with a handspring back elbow, following with a standing moonsault. She winked at her partner, turning her back to the opponent for a moment, long enough for Olivia to hit a german suplex. She kept the hold around her waist, picking her up for a second, and a third one. After the series was complete, she tagged her partner in. Levi didn’t think twice and climbed to the top rope dropping the elbow on the Black Shadow and hooking the leg for a two count. Staying on the attack, she rolled Zakari to a seated position with a snapmare and kicked her hard on the back. When she was starting to get back to a vertical position the Babi K ran to the ropes and planted her face on the mat with a hurricanrana driver, going for another cover and, from which WIley barely kicked out. Hooke put the differences aside and was now cheering on his partner, inviting the fans to do the same and show her their support in this moment of difficulty. His appeal didn’t get the success he was hoping for, but Zakari still managed to turn things around with an eye rake. Hooke didn’t appreciate it, and neither did the referee who gave here an official warning. But the damage was done, and Wiley had the opening she needed to kick Levi in the mid section, grabbing her by the back of her head and dragged her to a neutral corner, smashing her face against the turnbuckle. She then quickly climbed to the top rope, leaping over the dizzy opponent and grabbing her neck performing a beautiful blockbuster, going for a cover and using the ropes to get more leverage. The referee missed it, but not Gabriel Hooke who called the official’s attention, probably costing his team the win. Zakari was furious, yelling at her partner “What have you done”. Levi grabbed her by the waist and pushed her against the ropes, pinning her with a O’Connor roll. The referee never started to count, having seen a the blind tag Levi didn’t notice. Gabriel entered the ring and started delivering suplex after suplex, showing off his complete arsenal. German, Belly to Belly, Fisherman, and even a series of two Northern Lights, keeping the bridge after the second one. Levi kicked out, trying to hold her ground against the fresher opponent. But Hooke was firmly in control, tossing the opponent all around the ring. She had to pull a miracle, landing on her feet after a german suplex to finally reach her corner and allow Olivia to get back in. Once again the technical contest between these two competitors was a sight for sore eyes, they traded holds and takedowns for a good couple of minutes until Wythe took him down with a Saito suplex. Hooke answered with a knee to the stomach, following with a pumphandle gutbuster. Zakari called him and asked for the tag, which Hooke gladly granted her. La Sombra Negra entered the ring with a springboard dropkick, rushing into a cover that only gave her another near fall. For a while her quickness seemed to give her an advantage on the opponent, until Wythe caught her in mid air after a crossbody attempt and dropped her on her knee, killing her momentum with a backbreaker. Controlling now the pace, Olivia isolated the opponent in her half of the ring, working together with her partner with frequent tags. She went with another backbreaker, holding the opponent across her knee while Levi jumped from the top rope with a legdrop. You gotta give credit to Miss Machiavellian for kicking out of that double team maneuver, and even trying a mild reaction. Her comeback came to an abrupt end when Levi tossed her in her corner with an irish whip Zakari hit the turnbuckle chest first. The camera caught her fumbling with the protective pad of the top turnbuckle, but she wasn’t trying to pull it off. She was looking for something. Gabriel looked at her, shaking his head, showing her the brass knuckles she hid before the match started, before the referee searched her. Wiley yelled something we better not report to her partner, turning around right into the 25 cent Jawbreaker (Running Bicycle Knee) from Levi, who dropped on the opponent and sealed the deal for her team WINNER: Olivia Wythe & Levi BY: Pinfall (25 cent jawbreaker), 16:31 |
[RECORDED EARLIER]
There is a surprisingly large crowd moving in and out of a couple of fair-style tents set up outside the Pershing Center in Lincoln, Nebraska this fine day. Surprisingly large because it’s quite cold, and nearly everyone is dressed for it with parka jackets and heavy clothing. Nearly, except for the man manning a very large grill in flashy fashion, twirling the tongs as he turns cheddar brats until they’re perfectly striped and then sets them in a boiling bath of beer, and in the other hand he works a spatula with equal flair, the end results being brats and burgers for the fans that have come out to see him. That handsome face, that charming and roguish grin, clearly belong to former In Your House Champion Shawn Fox and he makes the most of that charm as he plates up the food requested and then sends each in turn to the condiments and sides table, one after the other.
He ‘notices’ the camera with a wink and makes sure everything is in order before handing off the tongs temporarily to his long time friend Jet Blanchard, one half of the MWE Tag Team Champions who goes about the job with nearly the same amount of flair, getting some of the fans laughing a bit at his food-based puns as Shawn wipes his hands on his apron before removing it and setting it aside for later. He waves the camera on to follow him, and he walks past the lines of fans, pausing for a few selfies and to shake a few hands, thanking them for coming out. There’s a bit of laughter and cheering, and someone says something about free food being a great draw and he chuckles as he moves out of the way.
Taking a moment he gathers his thoughts and with a slight chuckle under his breath, starts to speak in that warm baritone voice.
Shawn Fox:
I’ve had a lot of questions pitched my way the last couple of weeks, and I get why. I haven’t been as visible on Social Media as I normally am. A bit more erratic in contact, but let me assure you all, I’m listening, I’m reading your posts, I’m paying attention. I’ve been doing a lot of continent hopping, between Millennium and hanging out with my wife Lark… and I wouldn’t miss a moment of it. But back to the number one question… I mean by a large margin, really…
Why.
The fans, all you curious people, all seem to want to know why I chose to do this. Why would I, Shawn Fox, when placed in a perfect position to say no to a member of the Bad Omens who, let’s be real, have been real fuck knuckles towards yours truly over the past two seasons in IYHWF… why wouldn’t I? I mean it’s the proverbial catbird seat… look that up, man old-timey slang is fun… but I digress.
I could go with the old ‘well I’m better than them’ but we already know this. Time after time, they have to pile on, to cheat to get a win on me. They can piss and moan about it all they want and try to spin it back on me, but I all I need to beat any of them is myself. My skills, my training, my drive to defeat them. They have to cheat. All of them. Seth though? He wants better.
Shawn nods, a grin threatening to break loose.
Shawn:
Seth doesn’t like that the stats support what the fans say, that I’m better than him. Me, with so much ahead of me and him? He’s at the full rise. He’s on the crest, he’s got a bit more but then it’s the big downhill on the rollercoaster and that doesn’t end well too often for big men like him. That’s a fact. But see, Seth isn’t done. I mean I’m just saying.
There’s the grin.
Shawn:
He’s going to do things to try and win this match that he hasn’t called on in ages, if ever. He’s driven too, he wants to be able to get this thing between us on a more even playing field and he’s always been upfront about it. I respect that. I also see a lot of things other people conveniently try and sweep under the rug, like how interesting it is that when punishments came down for Bad Omens bad behaviour… most of them dropped square on him. I’m just saying that Seth doesn’t deserve to eat shit like that, he’s got more experience than all the rest of them combined and well… fuck, I just like him better than them so he gets something he wants, I get something I want, and the fans are the big winners here.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some of those fans to feed and then a show to watch. And Vincent? I see you.
Shawn laughs and heads back into the tent as the recorded feed ends.
Singles Match
Nikki Knight VS Dakota LockardThere were high expectations for this match, the former Portland Pro Champion superstar Dakota Lockard against the returning Nikki Knight, coming back after a long hiatus. But when “Another White Lie” by Voodoo Johnson blasted through the loudspeakers, Dakota never came out of the curtain. The tron showed him laying on the floor backstage, a broken bottle next to his head and Ozzie Savell laughing at him. The camera cut to a close up of Yulia, clenching her fists and doing her best to keep her composure. WINNER: N/A BY: No Contest, 0:00 |
Backstage we find Dean making use of the arena and finishing a small set of pull ups before he dismounts and shakes out his arms. He's aware of the camera filming but looks past the cameraman and nods to someone behind it who tosses him tape and he begins to wrap up his wrist.
Dean Smith:
Congratulations Cole Gregory on your win last week. You won the first round on points and then you won your second round by submission. Yes, I've watched it.
He says quickly wrapping his wrist up and begins to do his other wrist.
Dean Smith:
But when you at'd me on Twitter. And you reminded me of your submission win, I noticed you ignored something. Heck, let's go through your feed and see what you've done recently. All I see is a gym pic.
Dean says while getting his phone up and then smirks while looking at the camera.
Dean Smith:
Kind of like I did before but hey.
He shrugs and turns his phone back to himself as he begins to scroll down.
Dean Smith:
But then that's it. I'm not going to comment on all your Alex bits because that's you. You do you. But what I do is I make this main event known to my followers but I've also been setting up future matches, Gabriel Hooke clearly being one of them.
He pauses briefly as he'd been convinced not to jeopardise his main event but sighs knowing it was the best idea and so he could focus on the Invictus division.
Dean Smith:
I stepped out last week to tell this company I was going to be its Invictus Champion and I didn't see you make one word. You came, you fought and you left. But again, you do you. But when you're out there tonight and you see me come down to the ring, remember. I've paid attention…
He says with a small smoulder look. Giving the camera attention as he sets his phone down beside him and stands up, rubbing down his wrist tape to make sure it isn't loose.
Dean Smith:
I'm well aware of the submission style you can bring and in the main event, I won't be going down like Brandon did. Tonight's a main event, tonight's an Invictus match and tonight in Nebraska….we're HERE to see another knock out. And I know you're a capable striker, but I'm the one who proved his knee drops a Savell out cold.
As he cracks his knuckles and leans his head left and right to stretch out his neck.
Dean Smith:
And maybe as a Gregory you'll go to round 3 unlike Savell, and prove the Gregory name to be that much more resilient than the Savell name. But regardless.
He claps his hands together.
Dean Smith:
After tonight, people will associate Invictus matches with Dean Smith and the Knock Out Knee. See you out there.
And Dean points to the camera before walking past it as the person behind the camera comes forward, a small Riot Intern, blonde, who grabs Dean's phone and tape before it fades to black.
Dean Smith:
Congratulations Cole Gregory on your win last week. You won the first round on points and then you won your second round by submission. Yes, I've watched it.
He says quickly wrapping his wrist up and begins to do his other wrist.
Dean Smith:
But when you at'd me on Twitter. And you reminded me of your submission win, I noticed you ignored something. Heck, let's go through your feed and see what you've done recently. All I see is a gym pic.
Dean says while getting his phone up and then smirks while looking at the camera.
Dean Smith:
Kind of like I did before but hey.
He shrugs and turns his phone back to himself as he begins to scroll down.
Dean Smith:
But then that's it. I'm not going to comment on all your Alex bits because that's you. You do you. But what I do is I make this main event known to my followers but I've also been setting up future matches, Gabriel Hooke clearly being one of them.
He pauses briefly as he'd been convinced not to jeopardise his main event but sighs knowing it was the best idea and so he could focus on the Invictus division.
Dean Smith:
I stepped out last week to tell this company I was going to be its Invictus Champion and I didn't see you make one word. You came, you fought and you left. But again, you do you. But when you're out there tonight and you see me come down to the ring, remember. I've paid attention…
He says with a small smoulder look. Giving the camera attention as he sets his phone down beside him and stands up, rubbing down his wrist tape to make sure it isn't loose.
Dean Smith:
I'm well aware of the submission style you can bring and in the main event, I won't be going down like Brandon did. Tonight's a main event, tonight's an Invictus match and tonight in Nebraska….we're HERE to see another knock out. And I know you're a capable striker, but I'm the one who proved his knee drops a Savell out cold.
As he cracks his knuckles and leans his head left and right to stretch out his neck.
Dean Smith:
And maybe as a Gregory you'll go to round 3 unlike Savell, and prove the Gregory name to be that much more resilient than the Savell name. But regardless.
He claps his hands together.
Dean Smith:
After tonight, people will associate Invictus matches with Dean Smith and the Knock Out Knee. See you out there.
And Dean points to the camera before walking past it as the person behind the camera comes forward, a small Riot Intern, blonde, who grabs Dean's phone and tape before it fades to black.
Heading backstage, the camera is greeted with an image of a security guy running down a corridor. He comes to a sudden halt, a little out of breath, and waves ahead.
Guard
Miss van Beek? Miss van Beek!
Grace turns where she stands, surrounded on both sides by her personal guard. Her lack of patience is evident from the get go, as she sighs and shrugs.
GvB
Yes? What is it?
The man doubles over a little, catching his breath.
GvB
Well??
Guard
It's your locker room, ma'am.
Grace frowns.
GvB
What of it?
Guard
It's been trashed. You...you need to see it...
The frown becomes a scowl. Without any more to say, Grace and her personal security rush their way toward the room in question. Opening the door, she finds the contents strewn about the place; her clothing torn, her bag emptied, even the name on the door torn apart.
GvB
What is this?
Grace points up at the wall, where a red patch sits...several black stripes running through it.
Guard
Well, ma'am, at a guess-
GvB
For all the money I pay you, the best you have is a guess? Fine, very well, tell me your guess.
Guard
I would suggest it's the work of...her. It's the same pattern she wore on her face after you forced her ou-
GvB
After I defeated her, you mean? I want security doubled, I do not want Melissa Reeves anywhere in this building. And get me Yulia.
As her people go to work, Grace stands with her hands on her hips and a disgusting stare on her face.
Singles Match
Invictus Rules
Dean Smith VS Cole GregoryInvictus Rules
For the first time, an Invictus rules match headlined the show. And who better than the two winners of last week’s matches under held under these particular rules? First Round: Just like you would expect, this match was a hard hitting contest, with the two opponents holding nothing back since the first moments of the match. Cole’s quick strikes were precise as per usual, not without reason before signing with Riot he was a striking coach at Anderson Fighting System. Dean instead favorited a more brawling style, his kicks were not as fancy and technically flawless as Cole’s but equally effective. A front kick he calls “Down WIth The Door” sent Cole recoiling a few steps back, doubled over in pain and an easy prey for him to lift in a powerbomb position. Gregory fought back with some punches to the head, avoiding the high impact move and landing on his feet, ready to knock Smith down with a Spinning Heel Kick. Dean was quickly back on his feet, ready to charge at the opponents with a lariat that Cole easily dodged. As soon as Hook Shoot turned around, Cole picked him up with a snap spinebuster, slamming him on the canvas and mounting on top of him, raining down lefts and rights. Dean was able to block some of the shots, and he eventually managed to roll over, returning the courtesy. The bell rang signaling the end of the first round and the two competitors went back to their respective corners waiting for the judges decision. Judges Scores: Kirilenko: Gregory 10-9 Dyson: Gregory 10-9 Valero: Gregory 10-9 Second Round: Cole’s reaction at the verdict was a slight smile, it was clear that he was trying to stay focused, knowing how dangerous his opponent can be. Dean nodded, accepting the judges decision and waiting for the bell to ring. And when it finally did, he exploded out of his corner, running over Gregory and turning him inside out with a massive clothesline. He quickly picked him up, throwing him in the corner and hitting him with multiple boxing uppercut. Cole was on his knees, took completely off guard by the vehement start of his opponent. He eventually found a way to contain Mean Dean, catching him with a codebreaker and twisting his arm in a kimura lock, managing at the same time to keep him grounded and slow down the pace. Smith found a way out of the submission, getting back to his feet and holding his arm in pain. Too easy for Cole to target it with his kicks before surprising everyone with a flying armbar. Once again Dean was on the mat with nowhere to go. Screaming in pain, he seemed on the verge to tap out in more than one occasion, but he always refused to give up hoping for the bell to save him. And his effort was rewarded when, a few seconds later, Cole had to let him go due, as the five minutes time expired. Judges Scores: Kirilenko: Gregory 10-9 Dyson: Gregory 10-9 Valero: Gregory 10-9 Final Round: With two rounds clearly in his favor, Cole Gregory was five minutes away from his second win. His opponent instead had only one option. Knocking Cole out or submitting him before the end of this round. And, to everyone’s shock, he managed to do just that in a relatively short time. The round started with a clinch position that Dean quickly broke with a knee to the chest. He then followed with a throat jab, wrapping his arm around the opponent’s head and dishing out a flurry of punches. While Cole was still catching his breath Dean hit the ropes and knocked him down with a Yakuza kick to the side of the head. He then waited on the top rope for Gregory to get up, hitting him with his best shot, that diving flying knee that gave him the knockout win in his first match. And tonight as well. WINNER: Dean Smith BY: Knock Out (Mean Dean), Round 3; 1:29 |
Alyx Valero: "What the fuck? He did it!"
Zackary Dyson: "Cole Gregory dominated him for two rounds, but Dean Smith got the win in round 3."
Alyx Valero: "Hadn't i seen it, I wouldn't believe it."
Zackary Dyson: "This is what makes these matches so exciting and unpredictable. This is what Invictus is all about. Never defeated, that's the best translation from the latin. And Dean showed the true meaning of it. No matter how much punishment you have to take, you are never truly defeated until you give up, or are unable to continue."
Alyx Valero: "What a match! What a night! Did you see what happened to the boss' locker room? Do you believe..."
Zackary Dyson: "I don't think there are many doubts, honestly."
Alyx Valero: "Holy shit... What's the story with Ozzie though?"
Zackary Dyson: "I don't speak russian, but I can tell you Yulia was livid..."
Alyx Valero: "Yeah... Wanna say something about Shawn Fox? Can you believe he was here?"
Zackary Dyson: "He was, and we all heard what he had to say... I guess the bottom line here is: you never get bored on Riot!"
Alyx Valero: "Hell no! But folks, time's up for tonight. Riot comes back next Friday from Hutchinson, Kansas"
Zackary Dyson: "And it looks like an episode you don't wanna miss. Good night ladies and gentlemen, and see you next week!"
Zackary Dyson: "Cole Gregory dominated him for two rounds, but Dean Smith got the win in round 3."
Alyx Valero: "Hadn't i seen it, I wouldn't believe it."
Zackary Dyson: "This is what makes these matches so exciting and unpredictable. This is what Invictus is all about. Never defeated, that's the best translation from the latin. And Dean showed the true meaning of it. No matter how much punishment you have to take, you are never truly defeated until you give up, or are unable to continue."
Alyx Valero: "What a match! What a night! Did you see what happened to the boss' locker room? Do you believe..."
Zackary Dyson: "I don't think there are many doubts, honestly."
Alyx Valero: "Holy shit... What's the story with Ozzie though?"
Zackary Dyson: "I don't speak russian, but I can tell you Yulia was livid..."
Alyx Valero: "Yeah... Wanna say something about Shawn Fox? Can you believe he was here?"
Zackary Dyson: "He was, and we all heard what he had to say... I guess the bottom line here is: you never get bored on Riot!"
Alyx Valero: "Hell no! But folks, time's up for tonight. Riot comes back next Friday from Hutchinson, Kansas"
Zackary Dyson: "And it looks like an episode you don't wanna miss. Good night ladies and gentlemen, and see you next week!"