Post by gvb on Dec 19, 2019 18:29:06 GMT -6
MWE presents: Way Of The Dragon -night 1
Live from Nantong Stadium in Nantong
Tuesday, December 17th, 2019
The show opens to what would be a completely dark shot of the Nantong Stadium in Nantong, if it wasn't for the thousands of little lights coming from as many cellular phones held by the fans in attendance. The buzzing of the sold out crowd, the biggest crowd in the company's history is the only noise heard. When the lights finally turn on, there's a three members band on the stage. They're quite famous here in China, having formed in Bejing eighteen years ago. They're known as Ironblade and "Firebird" is the song they're playing live, another first time. Pyrotechnics of all colors explode as the live performance ends, and the camera immediately cuts to the commentary table where Peyton, Jessi, Zackary and Figgles run down the card, putting extra focus on the main event, the triple threat for the Cloud Gate Championship and the final of the tag team tournament. Worth mentioning are also the others title matches, the Junior Heavyweight championship contested between Liv and Saki, the Invictus title Dean Smith is called to defend against Brien Storm and the Chicago Way Championship on the line in what promises to be a brutal match between Hammerstein and Raymond Reznik.
The show then cuts to the first segment of the night.
A quick cut to the backstage has us looking the challenger for the Invictus Championship tonight Brien Storm, who is being followed by his entourage of 5 whom are carrying his various things, down this hallway. They’re all in high spirits tonight, all smiles and laughs. Brien looks to one of his goons to pass him his lighter and pack of cigarettes. Both items promptly arrive to his hand.
Brien Storm:
Look at that! A camera! Say hello boys.
The entourage oblige Brien, all of them greeting the camera at once. Brien quickly lights his cigarette during that brief moment, the parafernalia going back to whoever had them just as quick.
Brien Storm:
Reyt so… Dean-o. Dean-o Smith.
A cheeky little grin grows on Brien’s face
Brien Storm:
I must admit, slightly smarter than he looks. Tried to get him to show his ‘and on Twitter. Didn’t much work. That’s all alreyt though, not a worry really. I know what to expect, and I’m ready for what to expect. Pretty straight forward really, but obviously like you Dean-o mate, I don’t show my cards. All the same, I saw your last title defense. I was actually quite impressed with what you did with Envy, haven’t seen him beat that bad since I beat him. The 220 day reign also very solid. You’re an impressive champion and it’s really a shame that I have to stop you.
Brien pauses
Brien Storm:
Well a shame for you. I’ll celebrating. Drinkin some nice freedom margaritas with those fine people in the capacity crowd.
That cheek little grin evolves into a full blown smile
Brien Storm:
Be nice and be a good little boy and I might even let you have a margarita.
Brien and his entourage reach a door marked Brien Storm’s Private Locker Room. Brien give the camera one last look
Brien Storm:
Look like we’ve come to terms.
And they all shuffle into the room.
Singles Match
Krissy Spencer VS Hayley HalseyTheir first encounter ended in a DQ, last week in Wuhan Kristina picked up a win for her team in that tag match by pinning Halsey after her Hand Of The Wicked. Now the two Riot stars had the chance to settle their differences once and for all in the opening contest of Way Of The Dragon, in a match that Hayley started off strong showing some ruthless aggression with a series of punches that forced Spencer in the corner. She didn't stop there, switching to some kicks to the chest and abdomen, until the referee pulled her away under the threat of an early disqualification. After hearing, although probably not listening to what the official had to say, she charged at the corner and lifted herself in an upside down position, knocking the wind out of Kristina's thorax with a headstand dropkick. Grabbing her by the ankle, she dragged her back to the center of the ring, making the cover for a two count. Unable to contain or even react to this aggressiveness, Kristina found herself in deep waters, laying on her back more than often and desperately trying to survive the pinning predicaments that kept piling up. Her lucky break came after a distraction from her manager who jumped on the apron and caught Hayley's attention. While the Heartbreaker had her back turned on Kristina, the Wicked One had the chance to recover and drag Halsey onto her knees with a Backstabber. And then she got her revenge, stomping the former CW Immortal Iconic Champion to the ground, ending her outburst with a jumping knee drop. She hooked the leg for a cover, collecting the first near fall. For a couple of minutes Spencer remained in control, even coming close to the win with her Air Crazy (Springboard Stunner). Halsey determination and predisposition to bend some rules came into play pushing her out of the slump she was currently in, raking Kristina's eyes during a close exchange and sending her halfway across the ring with a headscissors. No time wasted, as she quickly ran at Kristina and leveled her with a shining wizard. In a reminiscence of their fight in Beijing, she reached the top rope, glancing at Veronica who, this time, was on the opposite side of the ring, unable to interfere in any way. And then she leaped, landing on the opponent with the So Ridiculous (corkscrew moonsault) obtaining her first pinfall victory. WINNER: Hayley Halsey BY: Pinfall (So Ridiculous), 6:18 |
Zackary Dyson: "No interference tonight, and Hayley picks up a well deserved win."
Sir Figgles: "She did a quick job in that, and that corkscrew moonsault? That's a thing of beauty."
Zackary Dyson: "Indeed it was. And now that she left Kristina in the rear-view mirror, you have to wonder what's next for Hayley Halsey."
Sir Figgles: "She did a quick job in that, and that corkscrew moonsault? That's a thing of beauty."
Zackary Dyson: "Indeed it was. And now that she left Kristina in the rear-view mirror, you have to wonder what's next for Hayley Halsey."
Backstage…
Miss Malice can be seen pacing around in an unspecified location in the arena. Her eyes are frantic. She’s definitely been hyping herself up prior to tonight’s contest against Swayze Dial.
Miss Malice:
Swayze… Sway-ze… SWAYZE!
She laughs before singing briefly.
Miss Malice:
Well I… had… the time of my LIFE…
Turning her head, Miss Malice looks to the camera.
Miss Malice:
Swayze… do you know what the MWE management just signed you up for? Do you know what it all means? It means you are in for a night you are NEVER going to remember… cuz I’m gonna knock your screws loose!
She laughs a bit, a look of sheer glee in her eyes.
Miss Malice:
Joey Leclair… he gave me quite a licking…
She licks her lips, grinning.
Miss Malice:
But I’m still here, aren’t I? Everything he did… EVERYTHING he threw at me and I keep coming back! I’m like the Energizer Bunny… I keep going and going and going and going…
Laughing, Malice moves back against the wall, looking upward before bringing her eyes to the camera.
Miss Malice:
Swayze! TONIGHT! RIGHT HERE! You feel pain. I’M GONNA TAKE YOU APART!
Smiling sweetly, she tilts her head.
Miss Malice:
Kiss-kiss.
Skipping out of the scene, we shift elsewhere.
Singles Match
Miss Malice VS Swayze DialAfter an impressive win in her debut, Miss Malice momentum came to a sudden stop last Wednesday when she lost against Joey Leclair. Way Of The Dragon represented for her a chance to immediately get back on track against the pocket sized Dial. The match started off as a very fast paced contest, Swayze using his agility and size to dodge and duck every strike Malice threw at her. He slid under her big boot, popping back to his feet with impressive speed and catching the opponent as she turned around with a dropkick. With Malice being close to the ropes, the dropkick sent her crashing on the outside. The little man then took a big risk, climbing up to the top rope and jumping at her with a crossbody to the outside. The fight came back to the ring with Swayze still in control, planting Malice on her head with a float over ddt. Once again Miss Malice kicked out with authority, quickly getting up to her feet and preparing herself for the next assault. Dial tried to send her into the corner with an Irish whip, but she countered it and quickly charged at him. Swayze raised his boot to counter her attack, but Malice saw that coming and grabbed his foot, taking him down with a dragon screw and following with a basement dropkick to the face. Punch after punch, she took back control with a very down-to-earth style, relying on straight shots to wear down the smaller opponent. A roaring elbow sent Swayze on his back, but Pocket Dial still had enough left in his tank to kick out in two. This didn't stop not frustrated Malice who kept her offense going, dropping him with her reverse ddt on the knee. With the opponent down, she tied his arms behind his back with her legs and left arm, adding some right elbows to the head as she locked him in her Hair-Trigger submission, until Swayze, inevitably, tapped out. WINNER: Miss Malice BY: Submission (Hair-Trigger), 6:29 |
Peyton Holland: "Lil Swayze tried, he really did... But with Malice he bit more than he can chew tonight."
Jessi Idol: "Hey, you gotta appreciate the kid's heart!"
Peyton Holland: "Don't get me wrong, I do... I'm just saying that he still has a long way to go before reaching that level. He's young, determined and he surely will get there one day."
Jessi Idol: "Stop making fun of his height, Peyton!"
Peyton Holland: "What? I would never stoop that low..."
Jessi Idol: "Hey, you gotta appreciate the kid's heart!"
Peyton Holland: "Don't get me wrong, I do... I'm just saying that he still has a long way to go before reaching that level. He's young, determined and he surely will get there one day."
Jessi Idol: "Stop making fun of his height, Peyton!"
Peyton Holland: "What? I would never stoop that low..."
Raymond Reznik sits at a table in the backstage area, still dressed in street clothes and taking a sip from a reusable cup. Placing the container down, Raymond releases a satisfied sigh and leans back in his chair, looking towards the camera focused on him.
Raymond Reznik:
Hello, Hammerstein. You've caught me at an opportune time because right now, I'm sitting here, drinking a latte and pondering. Y'see, my first match in MWE coincides with my first match in China. Do you remember who my opponent was? That's right, Hammerstein...it was you. Now, here we are on the last couple nights in this country and history is repeating. Two things have changed since that first match; we know who one another is and this time, it's for your Chicago Way championship. Quite the feat, don't you think? This will be my third match for MWE and I have an opportunity to take that piece of gold that you cherish. The championship that some people say has revitalized your career as a tough son of a bitch. I know differently, though. It was my presence here in China that has revitalized you, and let me tell you why.
Raymond frowns slightly and sips from the cup once more.
Raymond Reznik:
When I showed up in MWE, you were an angry and violent man, fresh from a brief suspension due to your actions. Now? You have a guy who won't take that kind of shit and just roll over as though you had the right and I was wrong to be in your way. What you'll come face to face with tonight is a man who will take everything you give and make sure to give you a receipt in return. I just hope that what I see in the ring isn't Jacob Hammerstein...I want the "American Monster".
An almost psychotic grin forms on his face, widening and with violence burning in his eyes.
Raymond Reznik:
No signs. No tape across your mouth to stop the violence from seeping out. No bullshit. Live up to your nickname, I dare you. The Chicago Way championship may be on the line and I'd be more than willing to take it from you later tonight but what I want most is to see just what you're willing to do to keep it in your possession. I want to look across the ring and see your wife, Holly, scared beyond a limit even she didn't know she had, all because her husband is sinking to depths that even she didn't know you're capable of just to hold onto your title and defeat me. She married a monster and probably hoped the "American Monster" had been put to bed by now, but I'm here to wake it up and find out just what kind of depravity lies within you. Do you know what you're gonna do in the ring, Hammerstein? You may think this is just another day in the office but I assure you, that won't be the case.
He turns his head and takes a pause as though picturing what might happen later tonight.
Raymond Reznik:
Were you ever taught in wrestling school, back in your days as one of the most technically gifted wrestlers in the country, how to kick a man's knee backwards through his own hamstring? I'll be more than willing to show you tonight. Maybe Jacob Hammerstein can use the time off after all is said and done inside that ring later to dress like an elf, sit back with his child and spend Christmas watching his career highlights with the family. Reassuring little Zoey that daddy won't be leaving home any time soon. Yeah, I know about her. Maybe you can tell Zoey that once upon a time, her father became a man. But over time? He could never figure out how to stay like one. I'm sure you've promised her over and over that there is no monster under the bed, or in the closet, but what you didn't tell her was that the real monster was tucking her in at night. Maybe you can show your true self to her tonight, let her see for herself that in this world, heroes don't exist. That the fantasy that is "Jacob Hammerstein, devoted father" is just as fictional as all of the other bedtime stories. Maybe you can tell her about Raymond...Reznik. How I got my reputation.
Footage from Reznik's past, both in other promotions over the years and in MWE since signing flash across the screen, showing him choking people out with eyes bulging and teeth clenched. It also shows him driving his knees and feet into others, punching one opponent in the ribs against the guard rail before cutting back to Raymond seated at the table in real time.
Raymond Reznik:
How I kill the dreams of up-and-comers, kill the legends of today in the midst of tomorrow because at the end of the day? Nobody lives forever. This business was built on the reputations of men putting it all on the line and tonight? You and I will do just that. We all saw the message I sent to you from New York, and I definitely saw the message you sent to me in return last week. You won't have the right to remain silent, though, Hammerstein. You will scream when I twist your limbs. You will splutter for your family when I choke you out. You will show that the "American Monster" was always your true self all along, while the Jacob Hammerstein persona was a lie you told yourself enough times that you started to believe it so that you could live with the rest of civilized society.
The camera slowly zooms into his face while Raymond smiles.
Raymond Reznik:
And you will thank me for giving you the kind of fight you've been craving for a very long time.
Raymond rises from the chair, walking away while the camera focuses briefly on the cup left on the table.
The Riot General Manager Yulia Kirilenko is walking backstage when two man in a suit stand in her path. The more observant among you would recognize them as part of miss van Beek's personal security.
Security Member:
Ma'am. I'm sorry, you can't proceed any further.
Yulia Kirilenko:
Are you kidding me? That's my office...
She says pointing at the door behind their backs.
Security Member:
I'm aware. But like I said, we can't let you go any further.
Yulia shakes her head in disbelief.
Yulia Kirilenko:
Care to tell me what's going on?
Security Member:
Ma'am, please.
He tries to calm the russian by placing a hand on her shoulder. Bad move. Before him, or his partner could even react, Yulia twists his big arm behind his back, bending it to an unnatural angle.
Yulia Kirilenko:
Care to tell me what's going on, please?
She says almost whispering in his ear, her eyes glued on the second guard.
Feminine Voice:
Ok, we can...
The voice belongs to Elsa McCarthy, Grace's assistant who's stepping in the hallway coming out of Yulia's office with a bunch of paperworks under her arm. As soon as she notices Yulia besting one of the two guards, she freezes on the spot. Catching up on what's happening, the General Manager lets go the poor man's arm and heads toward Elsa. or she would have, if the other bodyguard didn't stop her.
Yulia Kirilenko:
The hell are you doing in my office?
She says gritting her teeth and trying to walk past the block.
Elsa McCarthy:
You have yet to present your monthly evaluation. I'm saving you the bother.
Yulia grumbles something in her mother tongue, and we are more than fine without translating it.
Yulia Kirilenko:
This is some bullshit. Tell Grace that I want to talk to her!
Elsa McCarthy:
I'm afraid that's not possible. Have a nice night, miss Kirilenko.
And with that said, she leaves followed by one bodyguard. The other keeps holding Yulia back, until the camera fades to the next segment.
Backstage Brawl Match
Deacon Lewis VS Andrew WilkowThe cameras take us backstage where we find Deacon Lewis ready for his match. Next to him, embarrassingly smaller in comparison was the referee designated to officiate what promised to be a grueling contest between the two biggest men on the Riot roster. Wilkow was nowhere to be seen, and Lewis was complaining about him "chickening out" and avoiding the fight. He had yet to finish the sentence when the Appalachian Mountain Monster appeared from behind his back, a coconut in his hands, using hit to smack Deacon's head. The giant was on his knees, and it took another shot to head to knock him down. Andrew tried a pinning predicament but only obtained a two. The seven foot giant slowly stood up, looking dazed after the initial attack. Regardless, he still hit Wilkow with a kick to the midsection, throwing him against the wall. The pair then began trading blows down the hallway, the heat of the battle dragging them to a different area of the Arena. Always followed by the referee and the camera crew, the two behemoths reached the entrance area, where the concessions stands are. Deacon knocked the opponent down with a running big boot to follow a violent right hook. As he was looming over the floored opponent, planning his next move, Wilkow grabbed one of those steel queue barrier posts and drove the base against Deacon's chest. It was by sheer luck that the hard blow didn't crack some ribs, but it was more than enough to knock Lewis back a couple few steps. Andrew moved behind Megan's bodyguard back and used the rope barrier to choke the big man, who as soon as he figured out what qaw going through his opponent's mind, instantly managed to slide one hand between his neck and the rope, reducing the pressure on his throat. He bent forward, flipping Drew over and dropping him on the hard floor, finally getting free. He massaged his sore neck, a big red bruise now printed on it before jumping and dropping the elbow on Hearst's assistant sternum. The 385 pounder then made the cover, only getting another two. The fight went on, and it was like seeing a Tornado, destroying everything in its path. Including a concession stand selling official MWE merchandise, courtesy of a suplex from Deacon. The poor employer would have quite a busy night picking up all the shirts and gadgets scattered all around. But sure as hell he won't pick up the Sandcastle shirt Lewis wiped his giant sweaty ass with and threw on Andrew's disgusted face. Not even the catering area was safe from their fury. The Chinese waiters ran away in panic as soon as they saw the two big men storming in, with Wilkow currently having the upper hand. A headbutt from Deacon turned the momentum of the match, and the giant quickly took advantage by grabbing him by the troath with both hands and lifted him from the ground, dropping him through a laid out table with a choke bomb. This would have easily been the end for Andrew, if he wasn't so quick to toss some Chiu Chow Spicy sauce in Deacon's eyes. And it burned like hell, judging by the inhuman scream he let out. Wilkow picked himself up and charged at the blinded opponent hitting his LARIAAAAT! Another table crushed under Lewis weight, the last one since the giant couldn't kick out in time. WINNER: Andrew Wilkow BY: Pinfall (LARIAAAAT!), 13:28 |
Sir Figgles: "That's a saucy win for Wilkow!"
Zackary Dyson: "Oh, please..."
Sir Figgles: "All jokes aside, this was a fun match."
Zackary Dyson: "Unconventional for sure, but we were expecting nothing less. Congratulations to Drew"
Zackary Dyson: "Oh, please..."
Sir Figgles: "All jokes aside, this was a fun match."
Zackary Dyson: "Unconventional for sure, but we were expecting nothing less. Congratulations to Drew"
Backstage we find Dean Smith walking with his Invictus Title on his shoulders with a black high V-neck t-shirt underneath. A darkened pair of jeans with a pair of
Dean Smith:
Tonight I'm the first Champion defending their Championship. Like any other Millennium PPV there's always that wonder among the fans WHO's reign is coming to an end.
Dean's seen holding his chin and arching up his right eyebrow to dramatize his curiosity.
Dean Smith:
Tonight could be a night full of successful title defences or the night all but one title changes hands. What's that title you ask?
This is where Dean holds up the Invictus Championship up so the camera gets the full belt in the shot.
Dean Smith:
This title isn't going anywhere. Brien Storm is somewhere in this arena thinking he's going to be the one to take the title away from me. No one has yet.
And he flawlessly drops the title, moving his arm down quickly to catch the Invictus Title on his broad shoulder to resume what he was getting at.
Dean Smith:
But going back to what you said on Riot when, you dropped a few names, most of who I've defeated bar one.
There's a little clench on Dean's part from a recent main event clash but it's a split second reaction.
Dean Smith:
But then you said anyone not name dropped wasn't worth your precious oxygen. You outrightly put down this title as not worth your time. So what did I do? I watched the match and saw, right from the get go you got caught by Tiny Des's Destiny Drop. Now I do something similar, less flippy and more choking you 'outty'.
He adds a little candid tone to that last sentence and smirks at the thought of it happening.
Dean Smith:
Since you can't spare oxygen for this title, when I do choke you out and send you to dreamland, you'll fly back to LA where fans will tell you "top marks for tryin' "…and enjoy the living nightmare of knowing you couldn't get it done under invictus rules.
And then Dean reflects on his last contest in Millennium where Dean defeated someone Brien mentioned in Alan Envy.
Dean Smith:
"200 days ain't no joke". It definitely ain't not to be overlooked either. As you're going to find out tonight.
Dean Smith:
Tonight I'm the first Champion defending their Championship. Like any other Millennium PPV there's always that wonder among the fans WHO's reign is coming to an end.
Dean's seen holding his chin and arching up his right eyebrow to dramatize his curiosity.
Dean Smith:
Tonight could be a night full of successful title defences or the night all but one title changes hands. What's that title you ask?
This is where Dean holds up the Invictus Championship up so the camera gets the full belt in the shot.
Dean Smith:
This title isn't going anywhere. Brien Storm is somewhere in this arena thinking he's going to be the one to take the title away from me. No one has yet.
And he flawlessly drops the title, moving his arm down quickly to catch the Invictus Title on his broad shoulder to resume what he was getting at.
Dean Smith:
But going back to what you said on Riot when, you dropped a few names, most of who I've defeated bar one.
There's a little clench on Dean's part from a recent main event clash but it's a split second reaction.
Dean Smith:
But then you said anyone not name dropped wasn't worth your precious oxygen. You outrightly put down this title as not worth your time. So what did I do? I watched the match and saw, right from the get go you got caught by Tiny Des's Destiny Drop. Now I do something similar, less flippy and more choking you 'outty'.
He adds a little candid tone to that last sentence and smirks at the thought of it happening.
Dean Smith:
Since you can't spare oxygen for this title, when I do choke you out and send you to dreamland, you'll fly back to LA where fans will tell you "top marks for tryin' "…and enjoy the living nightmare of knowing you couldn't get it done under invictus rules.
And then Dean reflects on his last contest in Millennium where Dean defeated someone Brien mentioned in Alan Envy.
Dean Smith:
"200 days ain't no joke". It definitely ain't not to be overlooked either. As you're going to find out tonight.
Invictus Championship Match
Dean Smith (c) VS Brien StormIn his second match in MWE, Brien Storm had the chance to end Dean's record reign as Invictus Champion. Smith, on the other hand, looked more than ready for this next challenge. First Round For this being his first ever Invictus match, Brien shown some great adaptability, immediately embracing the right spirit and trying for a quick KO win with a bicycle knee strike. Dean bent backwards and barely avoided, spending the first part of the first round dodging and blocking the challenger's flurry of offense. After weathering the initial storm (pun intended) the tattooed powerhouse surprised the opponent with the front kick called Down With The Door, beheading him with a big time Lariat. How quick the tides had turned, Brien was now caught in the corner victim of a series of uppercuts, four to be precise. More confident than ever, the champion added literal insult to injury, talking smack to the challenge and rubbing the cockiness displayed by the former EIW world champion to his face. He then lifted him and accompanied him to the mat with a rock bottom. From the grounded position, he kicked Dean's leg off and took him down to the mat, quickly going for his koji clutch submission. He had literally just applied it when the bell rang. With his index and thumb at a close distance, Storm taunted Dean reminding him how close he was Smith smiled and waited in his corner for the judges score. Judges Scores: Kirilenko: Smith 10-8 Dyson: Smith 10-9 Figgles: Smith 10-9 Second Round: Round Two saw a way more cautious approach from the Favorite Worst Nightmare. Rather than launching himself against the opponent, he waited for Dean to strike first. The champion was taking his time, pacing around Brien waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike. He measured him with a couple of quick jabs, the first dodged by Storm, the second catching him on the jaw. And finally they locked up, Dean easily overpowering Brien and picking him up in a fireman's carry position. The challenger slid down and caught wrapped his arms around his head in a sleeper hold. Smith broke free by running all the way back against the corner, turning around and charging for a clothesline. But Brien kicked him in the stomach and dropped him on the middle turnbuckle with a STO, jumping with a legdrop. Now that he had Dean where he wanted, he went for another submission, a dragon sleeper hold and this time he locked him in deep. Not without struggle, Dean broke free. He was even able to land a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker before the bell signaled the end of round two. Judges Scores: Kirilenko: Storm 10-9 Dyson: Storm 10-9 Figgles: Storm 10-9 Final Round The fate of the Invictus championship was going to be decided in the next five minutes, and you could read the tension on both contenders' face. The psychological aspect, how to deal with this kind of pressure became an important aspect of the contest, the defense just as important as the offense. Both kept a very closed guard, careful not to give the adversary the slightest opening. Which Brien eventually did, missing a right hook and getting caught in Dean's Choke Out. Despite his best attempt to resist, Brien eventually had no choice but to tap out. WINNER: Dean Smith (STILL CHAMPION) BY: Submission (Choke Out), Round 3; 3:55 |
Jessi Idol: "Storm took the champion to the limit tonight, but in the end Dean, once again, successfully retains."
Peyton Holland: "Wait, does this mean we don't get free margaritas?"
Jessi Idol: "Uh, I guess not..."
Peyton Holland: "Dammit!"
Peyton Holland: "Wait, does this mean we don't get free margaritas?"
Jessi Idol: "Uh, I guess not..."
Peyton Holland: "Dammit!"
Sophie O’Brian:
Samuel Johnson says, “Revenge is an act of passion; vengeance of justice. Injuries are revenged; crimes are avenged”
The black haired Belfast native steps into view from stage left, stepping in front of an MWE logo. Sophie O’Brian is dressed for action and has a look of intensity across her face as she glares angrily into the camera.
Sophie O’Brian:
Two weeks ago was supposed to be my night of glory. I was to face reigning MWE Champion Melissa Reeves and it was to be my night to topple her and make her realize, along with the rest of you watching this as well as the rest of the MWE roster that everything I say is not a mere empty threat but a deadly promise, that I truly am the most dangerous of all the new blood to arrive in MWE in the past few months. All that was ruined by the arrival of Chris Constantine Jr. and his foolish sidekick.
O’Brian shakes her head.
Sophie O’Brian:
Millennium management thought that perhaps feeding me the pathetic carcass of Helena Noir would appease me, and while I must admit that making her submit to Wisdom was quite satisfying, it did not quench the lust I now have, a lust for revenge and vengeance. This is vengeance because an injustice was done against me, my opportunity to cleanly put down the champion was taken from me thanks to Constantine and his goon. That injustice must be corrected. I demand restitution and I will take it from his cold dead hands if I must.
The intensity seems to grow upon her face. A fire is in her eyes as she seems to almost shout at the camera despite her voice not getting any higher.
Sophie O’Brian:
This is also revenge because wrestling is my passion. Competing against the very best is my passion and I wanted to test myself against the best this company has to offer. That opportunity was taken from me by Constantine. It is only fair that I must take something from him.
Her stoic, emotionless face changes. A smirk forms upon her face.
Sophie O’Brian:
Chris, tonight I shall take your health away from you. And tonight, as I punish you and as I torture you for your crimes, you will regret ever getting involved in my business, and you will realize what everyone else will soon realize...Wisdom will be the death of you…
Sophie turns and walks away with a determined stride.
Last Man Standing Match
Loser Leaves MWE
Gavin Grimes VS Carmine ReaperLoser Leaves MWE
An old rivalry reinvigorated by weeks of interference and attacks. Gavin Grimes and Carmine Reaper are called to settle their differences once and for all in a last man standing match, with a twist. For one of them, this will be the last match in MWE. Carmine couldn't hope for a better revenge on the man who once retired him in NGW, and he was hell bent on returning the courtesy, kicking the Captain out of Millennium. A strong start he had, landing a few hard forearm shots and a powerslam before rolling to the outside, digging under the ring to introduce the first weapon to the match, the most classic steel chair. He took way too long to perform this simple operation, and by the time he was finally getting back into the ring, Gavin was already charging at him with a baseball slide, connecting with the chair and pushing it on Carmine's face. The Cult Classic winner then picked up the foreign object and smashed it against Reaper's back until the chair itself was a useless heap of metal. He tossed it aside and demanded that the referee would make the count. Carmine, his back showing the signs of the beat down, got up in six. Forget the fast paced action and spectacular style Grimes has been known to pull, this was all about beast the opponent to a pulp, using every sort of advantage the stipulation allowed him to use. He now had brought a baseball bat inside the ring, swinging it in Drew's mid-section to double him over, stepping right next to him and resting the bat against his neck, falling backward with a Russian leg sweep. Another baseball shot to stomach for good measure and another count from the ref, this time reaching eight before Carmine pulled himself up with the help of the ropes, catching his breath in the corner. Grimes charged in with a double knee missing the target as the former NGW Hall of Famer took a step aside. Gavin seemed to have hurt his knee on the impact, and Carmine looked to exploit this, stepping out of the ring and grabbing Gav's foot, smashing his leg against the steel post multiple times, bending the leg inwards to put more pressure on the knee joints. Some might argue that focusing so much on a limb in a match that can't end with a submission was a waste of energy, but it gave Carmine a big advantage, sensibly slowing down Grimes and making it harder for him to defend himself from Carmine's attacks. He dropped the captain against the turnbuckle with a powerbomb, following with a spinebuster on a pile of chairs he previously set up. With a smirk on his face, he took a step back, allowing the count to start. At five, Gavin began to crawl towards the corner, using the ropes to pull himself up, barely beating the count at nine. Facing the corner, his back turned to Carmine, he was soon caught with a waistlock by his opponent. Grimes threw his leg back, mule kicking Reaper and subsequently smashing his face against the turnbuckle he just exposed. Not happy yet with the amount of damage done, he drives him head first on the pile of chairs with The Crowning, busting his head open. Exhausted, Gavin fell back against the corner, watching the referee count his bleeding opponent out. WINNER: Gavin Grimes BY: Last Man Standing (The Crowning), 10:22 |
Sir Figgles: "Thanks for coming, Carmine... Bye bye!"
Zackary Dyson: "Hey come on! This is supposed to be a dramatic moment, Reaper just lost his job."
Sir Figgles: "He should have just stayed retired, instead of wasting everyone's time."
Zackary Dyson: "Hey come on! This is supposed to be a dramatic moment, Reaper just lost his job."
Sir Figgles: "He should have just stayed retired, instead of wasting everyone's time."
Soothing, classical, piano music can be heard playing in the background.
Feminine Voice:
The following presentation has been paid for by The Most Valuable Friendship, reminding you to be a true friend.
The scene fades backstage to where one of the Most Valuable Friends, Dickie Harter is sitting in his locker room. Ready dressed in his green trunks and boots, along with his leather jacket, Dickie has his elbows on his knees and his head down as he starts to speak.
Dickie Harter:
It’s a big week for me-- I won’t bore you with all the details. But this? Tonight? This is the first of three big-- no, three huge opportunities for me.
He holds up three fingers for the camera just for emphasis. Those in the know will realize that later this week Dickie has another shot at the NVR World Championship, and is competing in the Underground Condemned Tournament finals for a possible shot at the Underworld championship. But he’s not about to talk about those in Millennium.
Dickie Harter:
And I’m not gonna lie, they’re all important to me. They all mean the world to me. But this one-- the tag team tournament right here in Millennium means so much for one reason. One person who’s helped me believe in myself. Who’s helped me grow as a person, and a competitor. One person who’s helped me better myself, and pushed me as a tag team wrestler. And that person is my friend, Aubrianna Powers!
The pink tipped blonde beauty enters stage right. She’s dressed to compete and looks intense, and incredible, with her GCW world title belt draped over her right shoulder.
Aubrianna Powers:
Awww, you’re sweet, Dick! But I’m not doing anything special, just what any true friend would and that’s one thing that we know more about than the rest of the losers facing us here tonight, and it’s the one thing that gives us the ultimate edge...ok, well two when you consider my immense talent and skill...FRIENDSHIP! Friendship gives us an edge!
Dickie Harter:
...I wouldn’t call them losers, but whatever might give us an edge tonight, I’m willing to take it— even if it means taking advantage of Chris Constantine Jr’s appearance. He can, uh, consider that payback though…
After screwing Dickie out of two title shots in NVR, CCJ probably deserved to get the short end of the stick for a change.
Dickie Harter:
But if Friendship can help carry us into this fourway match against Jetpack, the Golden Era, and the BreeTee Committee, then I’m glad I’m standing here with you!
Aubrianna Powers:
Not just any friendship but The Most Valuable Friendship! A friendship that comes courtesy of The MVP of Millennium, The MVP of Sovereign, Simply the Best Aubrianna Powers!
She pats her world title belt, which she proudly defended recently.
Aubrianna Powers:
And to our opponents, especially the Golden Era twerps...I did hear what you had to say about me...you call me arrogant all you want but it isn’t arrogant if you back up your words and I have backed up everything I have ever said with action. Tonight, I say we win. Then tomorrow I say you’re looking at the new tag team champions.
Powers winks at the camera.
Aubrianna Powers:
Learn to love it, bitches.
Dickie looks awkwardly at the camera as he stands next to Aubrianna, his hands behind his back as he smiles to himself.
Dickie Harter:
Lets do this!
He says as the pair of them walk out together, and the show cuts back to ringside.
Singles Match
Sophia O'Brien VS Chris Constantine JuniorSophie O'Brian has made a huge impact since joining MWE in this China Tour. Still fresh in the memory of the fans her epic battle against the MWE Champion Melissa Reeves, a great match ruined by REDD Thunder and Chris Constantine Jr interfering with a distraction Mel was quick to capitalize on. And although Sophie only blamed herself for it, rest assured she was more than happy to get some measure of revenge on CCJ. Accompanied as always by Olivia, flaunting the brand new #APE shirt, Chris started the match with a very defensive approach. Sophie might as well be the most versatile wrestler on the roster, her ability to switch from a hard-hitting style to a technical one, throwing him some lucha libre elements as well was something CCJ was definitely keeping account of. And when the pair locked up, he instantly stepped toward the ropes to get a break. O'Brian broke up the hold immediately and waited for him in the center of the ring. Another lock up, this time she was quick to switch to a waistlock but Constantine freed himself, this time rolling out of the ring. The fans let out a loud round of boos, figuring out that his apparent cowardice was a ploy to get on the opponent's nerves, possibly inducing her in making some mistake. O'Brian didn't take the bait, patiently waiting for him to come back into the ring. And when he did, she charged and hit I'm with a knee to the head while he was still stepping through the ropes, following with a rope hung ddt and a quick cover. Constantine' s plan had backfired, what was supposed to give him an advantage ended up to be an opening for Sophie to start building her offense. Hard kicks to the legs and sides, aiming at those floating ribs were really making a number on Constantine, but it was the enziguri kick that once again dropped him down. Instead of making the cover, Sophia went for the leg, stomping Chris' knee and shin before grabbing his foot and going for one of the most dangerous moves in her arsenal, the grapevine ankle lock right in the middle of the ring. Trapped in the excruciating submission with nowhere to go, Chris did the smart thing starting to pummel Sophia's leg until she had to let him go. If anyone was wondering how much damage had been done, the way Chris was limping once he got up gave quite a clear picture. Bad leg and all, Constantine was far from done. Sure, he had to dig deep in his bag of tricks and pretend to be injured to turn the tables with an eye poke and a snap ddt, but eventually he started get some wind behind his sails. Keeping a simple but effective offense based on stiff shots and suplexes, Constantine had now Sophia in the corner, the sole of his boot pressed against her windpipe. "Four" shouted the referee to convince Constantine to let her go. Which he did, taking a step back and apologising to the referee. An act, obviously, that allowed Olivia to hit Sophie with her purse to the back of the head. When O'Brian turned, staring holes through Chris' wife, he quickly rolled her on her shoulders, failing to keep her down for the three. The match went on, both competitors starting to show the signs of the grueling battle they've been through. But none of them was holding back, knowing how much a win tonight could mean. The whole Nantong Stadium jumped on their feet when O'Brian kicked out from the American Strong Piledriver, a minute after coming this close to the win with her Death Of Wisdom. Chris looked at her shocked, wondering what it'd need to keep her down. Then he nodded at Olivia, who fumbled in her purse until she picked up her phone. One moment later, Duke Andrews and Redd Thunder were walking down the ramp. It was no longer about winning the match, it was about American Pain Experience making a statement. And they did, at the expenses of Sophie, a three on one assault that left the former GCW North American Champion battered and bruised. WINNER: Sophie O'Brian BY: DQ (APE interference), 13:37 |
Jessi Idol: "Oh come on!"
Peyton Holland: "Are you really surprised Jessi? Were you expecting anything different from these three?"
Jessi Idol: "One can always hope..."
Peyton Holland: "You poor thing..."
Peyton Holland: "Are you really surprised Jessi? Were you expecting anything different from these three?"
Jessi Idol: "One can always hope..."
Peyton Holland: "You poor thing..."
The camera focuses in on the Junior Heavyweight champion, Liv Mercer, adjusting her brand new #LivShow hoodie in a deep shade of purple with gold lettering on the back that she had gotten special made after becoming a champion for the second time in her career. Besides where she is standing, carefully placed on a crate, is a wrapped present with a big pink bow complementing the wrapping paper that is a nice shade of silver with little reindeer all across.
Liv Mercer:
Millie! There you are!
There is now a big smile on her face as Liv’s special guest for tonight makes an appearance looking a little overwhelmed by all of the activity backstage. Sensing this discomfort, Liv is quick to step forward to wrap one arm gently around Millie’s shoulders to guide her along. Millie chuckles with little volume so only Liv can hear it.
Millie Smith:
It is a big arena, I got a little lost but I found you. Junior Heavyweight Champion Liv.
Liv Mercer:
I wouldn’t let you get lost after all.
Liv gives Millie another friendly smile before she taps the golden plate of her Junior Heavyweight championship belt wrapped around her waist.
Liv Mercer:
You have to see me in action tonight against Saki.
Millie Smith:
I can’t wait to see you in that match.
Millie then sighs and covers her mouth a little to cough twice.
Millie Smith:
I have been Sick Millie for two weeks, I didn’t get to watch what happened on Riot at all.
Liv sighs as if she was carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders before she places one hand up against her chest.
Liv Mercer:
Saki has been obsessed with me ever since I won the Junior Heavyweight championship. She thinks inside of her crazy brain that she should be the champion, even though I won it!
Liv makes sure to tap her index finger up against her championship belt as if to further emphasize her point.
Liv Mercer:
The last time we were in the same ring together, she took my title, and hit me in the face with it which cost her the match. It was bad enough she ruined my big celebration, but now she’s just trying to get on my bad side.
Millie covers her mouth with her sleeves, this time to shield her gasp.
Millie Smith:
You can stop her tonight.
As Millie goes a little silent because two random members of staff were passing by. Liv waits until both staff members have walked further away before she nods her head.
Liv Mercer:
Oh don’t worry, I will, because she’s on The Liv Show and it’s time I make it clear exactly why I’m the Junior Heavyweight champion and she’s just in my shadow.
Millie meets Liv’s calm confidence with a nod of respect.
Millie Smith:
And then the AfterLiv Show party?
Which makes Millie go a little pale given how charismatic Liv was, Millie expected a lot of people turning up. Liv laughs a little with a nod of her head before she turns around to pick up the gift making sure to gently place it inside of Millie’s hands.
Liv Mercer:
Which is why you’ll be needing this… a little something from me, to you.
Millie looks at Liv to ask if it is ok to open the gift. When her friend the Junior Heavyweight Champion gives her a nod, she tears open the wrapping paper and opens the box. After pulling aside the padding paper, she lifts up what appears to be a #LivShow hoody in Millie’s size. This leaves the shy Smith speechless with a jaw dropped expression of shock.
Liv Mercer:
This one is super exclusive, just like the one I’m wearing.
Liv touches her own hoodie with a smile.
Liv Mercer:
You’ve always supported me since day one after all.
Millie Smith:
And I will keep supporting you.
Then Millie hugs her new hoodie and speaks up to ask Liv.
Millie Smith:
Do you know somewhere I can change into this?
Even though Millie had a t-shirt on underneath she didn’t want to risk it riding up to change into her new hoodie. Liv nods as she gently links her arm into Millie’s before she leads her further down the hallway.
Liv Mercer:
You can use my dressing room for that, total privacy.
Millie’s shy nod is enough confirmation for Liv to take that as her being okay with it as they make their way closer to her dressing room with the scene fading out.
Junior Heavyweight Championship Match
Liv Mercer (c) VS SakiFor the whole Way Of The Dragon Tour the unhinged Saki has seemed to constantly drift toward her most brutal and violent side, to the point where she voluntarily lost her last match to hurt the current Junior Heavyweight Champion. This would explain the look of concern on the champion's face as she walked to the ring where Saki was waiting for her with that twisted grin on her face. On the bright side, tonight's match had no special stipulations attached, meaning that should the Singapore Mauler cross the line, at the very least Liv would still walk out with her title. Not to mention, the champ always had her ace up her sleeve, her boyfriend Oz Dalton who proved time and time again to be a valuable asset for Mercer. And in fact, the match has just started and Oz immediately got involved, although in all honesty, he would have preferred to avoid it. Liv had sent Saki against the ropes, but the Kawaii Deathmachine ducked the clothesline and hit Oz with a. Baseball slide, pushing him against the announcers table. The Jr Heavyweight champ was quick to drop her leg against Saki's upper chest, pulling her away from the ropes and making the cover,obtaining only a count of one. The challenger looked extremely focused tonight, fighting a great first part of the match where his speed allowed her to quickly turn things around and put some pressure on the champion, reminding her that, even within the rules, Saki was a dangerous competitor. Only the closeness with the ropes avoided an embarrassing loss in five minutes, after Saki's Piledriver planted the champ on top of her head. The Kawaii Deathmachine exploited the favorable moment sending the champion against the ropes with an Irish whip and flooring her with a leg lariat. She then went for a springboard moonsault finding nothing but the canvas as Liv quickly moved away, ruthlessly kicking the former Empire Extreme Champion in the head with a punt kick. Liv was now doing a great job at slowing the opponent down, keeping her grounded with a chin lock. Saki struggled and eventually broke free, but Mercer was right back in control with a headlock takedown. Once again the Singapore Mauler stood back to her feet and pushed live against the ropes, jumping over her with a leapfrog. Mercer bounced back from the opposite side and this time Saki took her down with a drop toe hold, followed by a double foot stomp to the small of the back. The rules might be limiting to Saki's "creativity" but the Kawaii Deathmachine still found an outlet for her aggressiveness, in the form of a series of rapid fire headbutts that left her almost as dizzy as they left Liv. Nonetheless she charged at the champion, who caught her with a flapjack dropping her on the top rope. Saki stumbled back right into the Stay Grounded (inverted Stomp facebreaker). A cover was made, but surprisingly it wasn't enough to keep the resilient challenger down. Liv quickly transitioned onto the Liv Lock (figure four headscissors) squeezing the life out of Saki. Stoically, the challenger put up a spirited defense, refusing to tap out. But her body gave up, and she passed out inches away from the bottom rope. WINNER: Liv Mercer (STILL CHAMPION) BY: Submission (Liv Lock), 11:47 |
Zackary Dyson: "Impressive performance by Liv tonight, and title defense number on in the books."
Sir Figgles: "We're talking about the only person to hold two titles in Riot's history. That means two different titles in less than a year."
Zackary Dyson: "I think, at this point, nobody can deny the impact she had on the Orange Brand."
Sir Figgles: "Miss Saturday Night, ladies and gentlemen!"
Sir Figgles: "We're talking about the only person to hold two titles in Riot's history. That means two different titles in less than a year."
Zackary Dyson: "I think, at this point, nobody can deny the impact she had on the Orange Brand."
Sir Figgles: "Miss Saturday Night, ladies and gentlemen!"
The show cuts to the locker room area, where Reese Kennedy is standing in front of the dressing room of his client, The Chicago Way Champion, Jacob Hammerstein.
Reese Kennedy:
I'm sure a lot of you expected me to come out here and talk about the corrupt and brutal totalitarian regime that keeps countries like Hong Kong in Taiwan under their thumb. I'm sure a lot of you expected me to come out here and rail against the Chinese government and this company's willingness to go to bed with them. But I'm not going to talk about the human rights abuses submitted by this government nor am I going to talk about how, that for the sake of the almighty dollar,, Chloe Collins and Grace Van Beek turned a blind eye to these abuses.
Kennedy's face is turning red as he starts to build momentum.
Reese Kennedy:
When they were in a position to effect change, the only change they wanted to effect was the change in their bank accounts. I'm not even going to talk about how it took general manager of the RIOT brand to get my client and myself back on this tour.
Kennedy straightens his tie and takes a moment to compose himself.
Reese Kennedy:
What I am going to talk about tonight is this: The American Monster, Jacob Hammerstein, in front of representatives of the Chinese Monster, Xi Jinping, is going to destroy Raymond Reznik.
Mr. Reznik, I'm not sure what you intended to do by invading The Hammerstein Ballroom. Perhaps you thought you were invading his home. You should've asked that idiot Kenzie Garrett where Mr. Hammerstein lives, because she knows the way.
Kennedy gives a hateful glance towards the camera.
Reese Kennedy:
But, Mr. Reznik, if you were looking for The American Monster's home, you should've looked no further than the squared circle, because THAT'S Hammerstein's home. Every time you step through those ropes, you're walking through his front door, so please wipe your feet.
Mr. Hammerstein is like a protective father and The Chicago Way Title is like his beautiful daughter, pure and undefiled. You, Mr. Reznik, are like one of those pimply faced jocks that try to pick her up, take her, and defile her. But, like the protective father he is, Mr. Hammerstein is going to make you suffer unimaginable pain for having the temerity to even think you have a chance of taking his beloved Chicago Way Title.
Kennedy starts to walk away, but stops and turns back to the camera.
Reese Kennedy:
By the way, Mr. Hammerstein wanted me to pass along a message to our hosts, as well as the Millennium brass, and I only hope I can properly convey his feelings.
Kennedy raises his right hand, the middle finger extended, and places it on the lens of the camera before walking away.
The camera opens to the backstage area and we find The BreeTee Committee making their way down the hallway with each of them holding on to magnifying glasses. They are once again both wearing their matching BreeTee Committee shirts, but this time they’ve paired them with some old fashioned detective caps. Teagan is using her magnifying glass to better inspect one of the crates backstage before she turns to Bree with a shrug.
Teagan Gallagher:
I can’t find any clues to help us solve the case of The Missing Oreos.
Bree Smith:
No fingerprints or skin flakes or anything, Teegs?
Bree does a little notepad flip while chewing on her pencil to get copious notes on the investigation.
Bree Smith:
Anything to pin this on our upcoming opponents to try and sabotage our chances in the tournament?
Teagan turns her attention back to the crate as she once again looks her magnifying glass before shaking her head in a dramatic fashion.
Teagan Gallagher:
It could be anyone… but who would be that cruel and cold to steal Oreos?
Bree Smith:
Dickie and Powers could have…
Bree taps the pencil against her chin as she comes up with a theory.
Bree Smith:
Since Oreos are the most valuable friends to the BreeTee Committee, then again Jetpack and us have history. But Golden Era had that comic book discussion last week and Oreos are comic book readers go to snacks, BREElieve me I know.
Teagan Gallagher:
So what you’re saying is… it could be any of those teams!
Teagan throws up both of her hands in a sign of distress before she places them back down on her side and stomps one foot a little bit.
Teagan Gallagher:
They all have a reason to want us off our game after all. They don’t have unagi like we do.
Bree Smith:
Whoever it was picked the right time to do it when it’s the summit of this tag team tournament.
Bree then looks over at Teagan’s notepad to see her list of suspects matching Bree but also having Dean’s name on it. Bree chooses to overlook it and continue with her train of thought.
Bree Smith:
Well they’re not going to knock our game face off, or tamper with our laser-focused minds on winning this tag team. It’s elimination rules so no one’s going to break up the pins tonight. It truly is survival of the fittest tag team, Teegs.
Teagan Gallagher:
And there’s no team out there more fit than The BreeTee Committee!
Teagan makes sure to flex one of her arms to show off her muscles to Bree after she makes this comment to make it clear she was serious about their match tonight.
Bree Smith:
We’re busting our butts daily in the gym and those results speak for themselves.
As Bree does a point gesture to Teagan’s flexed bicep. Teagan decides to show off a little bit for the camera before she bursts out into laughter and relaxes her arm.
Teagan Gallagher:
We’re busting our butts because we want those tag team belts! It’s been our goal for a long time and we need to make it come true.
Bree Smith:
We will. We’re going to win. Go to the tag team title match tomorrow night. Face Brothers McMillion and win the Millennium Tag Team titles FINALLY!
Bree says each sentence like a high school gym teacher and slams her fist into her hand on each point. Her last one shows an explosion of pent up frustrations.
Bree Smith:
We’ve come so far after the last hurdle, I don’t want to go back to the drawing board again….
As Bree’s shoulders dip, showing a little vulnerability to her partner as an accoladeless Smith. Teagan takes a firm hold of both of Bree’s shoulders as she looks her directly in the eyes.
Teagan Gallagher:
We won’t because we’ll both be shining with gold around our waists.
Bree Smith:
Together…
Bree looks at her partner, with a hopeful tone. Teagan nods as she presses two of her fingers up against her temple to make the gesture for unagi.
Teagan Gallagher:
Together.
Bree makes this gesture back at her partner.
Bree Smith:
Thanks, Teegs. And since there’s nothing here about the missing oreos, maybe it’s time we go to the ring and show whoever it was who took them, they've only made us hungrier. Hungrier for gold.
Teagan Gallagher:
Watch out! We’re hungry and need to be fed with some tag team gold!
Teagan continues to chant about being hungry for tag team gold as she rallies Bree into doing the same, both members of The BreeTee Committee pumping their fists up high in celebration as they march down the hallway with pride.
Teagan Gallagher:
I can’t find any clues to help us solve the case of The Missing Oreos.
Bree Smith:
No fingerprints or skin flakes or anything, Teegs?
Bree does a little notepad flip while chewing on her pencil to get copious notes on the investigation.
Bree Smith:
Anything to pin this on our upcoming opponents to try and sabotage our chances in the tournament?
Teagan turns her attention back to the crate as she once again looks her magnifying glass before shaking her head in a dramatic fashion.
Teagan Gallagher:
It could be anyone… but who would be that cruel and cold to steal Oreos?
Bree Smith:
Dickie and Powers could have…
Bree taps the pencil against her chin as she comes up with a theory.
Bree Smith:
Since Oreos are the most valuable friends to the BreeTee Committee, then again Jetpack and us have history. But Golden Era had that comic book discussion last week and Oreos are comic book readers go to snacks, BREElieve me I know.
Teagan Gallagher:
So what you’re saying is… it could be any of those teams!
Teagan throws up both of her hands in a sign of distress before she places them back down on her side and stomps one foot a little bit.
Teagan Gallagher:
They all have a reason to want us off our game after all. They don’t have unagi like we do.
Bree Smith:
Whoever it was picked the right time to do it when it’s the summit of this tag team tournament.
Bree then looks over at Teagan’s notepad to see her list of suspects matching Bree but also having Dean’s name on it. Bree chooses to overlook it and continue with her train of thought.
Bree Smith:
Well they’re not going to knock our game face off, or tamper with our laser-focused minds on winning this tag team. It’s elimination rules so no one’s going to break up the pins tonight. It truly is survival of the fittest tag team, Teegs.
Teagan Gallagher:
And there’s no team out there more fit than The BreeTee Committee!
Teagan makes sure to flex one of her arms to show off her muscles to Bree after she makes this comment to make it clear she was serious about their match tonight.
Bree Smith:
We’re busting our butts daily in the gym and those results speak for themselves.
As Bree does a point gesture to Teagan’s flexed bicep. Teagan decides to show off a little bit for the camera before she bursts out into laughter and relaxes her arm.
Teagan Gallagher:
We’re busting our butts because we want those tag team belts! It’s been our goal for a long time and we need to make it come true.
Bree Smith:
We will. We’re going to win. Go to the tag team title match tomorrow night. Face Brothers McMillion and win the Millennium Tag Team titles FINALLY!
Bree says each sentence like a high school gym teacher and slams her fist into her hand on each point. Her last one shows an explosion of pent up frustrations.
Bree Smith:
We’ve come so far after the last hurdle, I don’t want to go back to the drawing board again….
As Bree’s shoulders dip, showing a little vulnerability to her partner as an accoladeless Smith. Teagan takes a firm hold of both of Bree’s shoulders as she looks her directly in the eyes.
Teagan Gallagher:
We won’t because we’ll both be shining with gold around our waists.
Bree Smith:
Together…
Bree looks at her partner, with a hopeful tone. Teagan nods as she presses two of her fingers up against her temple to make the gesture for unagi.
Teagan Gallagher:
Together.
Bree makes this gesture back at her partner.
Bree Smith:
Thanks, Teegs. And since there’s nothing here about the missing oreos, maybe it’s time we go to the ring and show whoever it was who took them, they've only made us hungrier. Hungrier for gold.
Teagan Gallagher:
Watch out! We’re hungry and need to be fed with some tag team gold!
Teagan continues to chant about being hungry for tag team gold as she rallies Bree into doing the same, both members of The BreeTee Committee pumping their fists up high in celebration as they march down the hallway with pride.
Chicago Way Championship Match
No Holds Barred
Hammerstein (c) VS Raymond ReznikNo Holds Barred
Violence. That's what the Chinese fans were expecting from Hammerstein and Reznik and boy, they weren't disappointed! The bell had just rang and the two fighters were already trading heavy rights in the middle of the ring. The first exchange saw Hammerstein getting the upper hand with a headbutt, to which he followed up with a cactus clothesline. The two men were now in their favorite environment, out of the boundaries imposed by the ropes, free to express their destructive instincts. Three minutes in and Hammerstein was throwing everything on Figgles and Dyson's desk on the floor. What was going to happen next, everybody could predict it. The Chicago Way Champion picked up Reznik, still recovering after being introduced to the steel post, and powerbombed him through the table. While Raymond recovered, Hammerstein started pulling out all sort of objects from under the ring and tossed them inside. A few chairs, a table, a couple more chairs... And a chain the champion wrapped around his fist before walking toward Reznik and picking him up, swinging a right hand to his face. The loaded punch left its mark, coloring Reznik's cheek of a dark red as blood trickled down from a cut on the cheekbone, right under the eye. A second shot was instead blocked by Raymond, quick to push the champion back with a front kick to the gut and take him down with a clothesline. He then picked up the chain and used it as a whip on Hammy's back, each lashing leaving the sign on his skin and eliciting a cry of pain from the champion. Reese tried to stop him and almost got one for himself, but his client was quick to exploit this distraction with a low blow. The fight moved back inside the ring, losing absolutely nothing in terms of violence. After launching the Champion head first against a chair stuck between the middle and top rope in the corner, Reznik unfolded two chairs and put them back to back against one another, lifting Hammerstein in a powerslam position and dropping him on the backrest. He probably knew this wasn't enough to take the title off Jacob's waist, but with how he was arching his back in pain, forcing him into an extra effort to kick out couldn't be a bad thing. Two and half said the referee when the champion finally raised his shoulder. Reznik pulled the champion up and got caught with a knee to the gut by the still combative Chicago Way Champion, who immediately slammed the challenger's face on the unfolded chair, rolling him on his back and making the cover, obtaining a two count as well. You wanted blood, you got it. Both men had their faces turned into crimson masks, Hammerstein for being piledrived on a pile of chair and miraculously kicking out of it, Reznik for being pushed multiple times against the exposed turnbuckle with unspeakable brutality. Neither of them tho was giving up, showing that they both could take as much punishment as they delivered. Hammerstein set up the table in the middle of the ring, right over the pile of chairs he was recently piledrived onto. Just to make sure that, whoever got put through it, had an even worse and more painful landing. And it looked like he was going to fall victim of his own creation as Raymond had him now in a powerbomb position, ready to drive him to the mat. With some punches to the open wound, he eventually makes to avoid disaster and pushed Reznik against the corner, back first onto the exposed turnbuckle. With great effort he lifted him and climbed onto the second rope looking for a super Hammerplex. The challenger returned the courtesy, causing the cut on Hammerstein forehead to start bleeding all over again with a nasty headbutt that knocked the champion down. With slow and uncertain movements, he tried to balance himself on the top rope, but the champion quickly reached him on top. Kennedy closed his eyes and turned to the opposite side rather than watching the belly-to-belly Hammerplex from the top rope that put both men through the table. For a moment, none of them moved. Then the champion lifted his arm and put it on Raymond's chest, and that was enough to retain his title. WINNER: Hammerstein BY: Pinfall (BTB Hammerplex through a table), 18:39 |
Peyton Holland: "You can open your eyes now, Jessi. It's over."
Jessi Idol: "Are they... dead?"
Peyton Holland: "They tried, but no, they're still alive. What a battle this was!"
Jessi Idol: "Surely they didn't hold anything back."
Peyton Holland: "That would have been disappointing. This is the Chicago Way after all!"
Jessi Idol: "Are they... dead?"
Peyton Holland: "They tried, but no, they're still alive. What a battle this was!"
Jessi Idol: "Surely they didn't hold anything back."
Peyton Holland: "That would have been disappointing. This is the Chicago Way after all!"
The scene opens backstage in the designated interview area, except there is no interviewer present. Who is present? The Golden Era, Kyle Butler and Neil Newman. Upon seeing them on screen, the crowd does not react overly favorably to them. Makes sense. The Golden Era has a tendency to be overly preachy, haven’t done a lot to endear themselves to the MWE audience.
Neil Newman:
A-hem. My name is Neil Newman.
Kyle Butler:
Wooooo, my name is Kyle Butler.
Neil Newman:
Collectively, we are the Golden Era.”
Kyle Butler:
By the time this Night Two rolls around, like the Alabama Crimson Tide on a good year, the Golden Era plans to roll all the way to the tag team championships, woooooo!
Neil lets silence hang in the air before continuing.
Neil Newman:
The one question we’ve been asked, which team in the fatal four way are looking forward to competing against. The easy answer would be the Most Valuable Friends. When you run your mouth as much as Aubrianna Powers does, no one would blame us, BreeTee or Jackpack for looking forward to being the ones to humble them on what could be there last night in MWE. Makes sense when you look at it. Aubrey did mock our collective desires to win, all but guaranteeing her and Dickie Harter’s victory. Is Aubriana’s ego baseless, not at all, her ego is earned, she wins gold practically everywhere she goes. A mistake The BreeTee Committee, Jackpack, me and Kyle can make is focusing exclusively on one team. Unlike BreeTee and Jetjack, Kyle and I know Aubriana’s game. Our wives work in one of the companies Aubrianna calls home. Getting riled up by her talk, it is exactly what she wants. We’re not going to take the bait. In a chaotic match like this, focusing too heavily on one team is a mistake.
Neil takes a deep breath.
Neil Newman:
We acknowledge The BreeTee Committee, Jackpack and Most Valuable Friends are formidable in their own right, all three teams walked the same path we did. No easy feat being the final four. Jetpack, who a year ago won the inaugural tournament to become MWE Tag Team Champions. Your history is not lost on us. You are the biggest threat as far as The Golden Era are concerned. Been there, done that in Millennium, we know what it feels like wish to reclaim the top on the mountain yet again. To stand across the ring from an esteemed MWE tag team, nights like tonight are what Kyle and I live for.
BreeTee Committee. Your story is not lost on us. You’ve had two chances already to become the MWE Tag Team Champions. On two occasions you have had setbacks. Tonight, you stand at the precipice of moving one step closer to completing a task you have worked your butts off all year to obtain, it is not lost on The Golden Era you NEED to overcome The Jetpack, Most Valuable Friends, and ourselves. Everyone knows you two have been chasing the illustrious dream all year, who are the new team team on the scene to stop you from finally demonstrating to the world why it was inevitable for the BreeTee Committee to become champions?
Neil smirks.
Neil Newman:
Obviously, Kyle and I want to win. We didn’t reform the band to come up short. Can we take a step back, check our egos at the door and marvel at how great the Way of the Dragon tour has gone? Part of me lost faith in tag team wrestling. There was a short stop I made before coming to MWE, I saw the mess there tag team division was in. I saw the mess their parent company (at the time) was in. My heart sank. I was under the illusion tag team wrestling, the golden era of tag team wrestling was dead. This tournament reignited my passion. For the first time in YEARS, I can honestly say the company I represent has something special on there hands with tag team wrestling as a whole. Look at how much interest this tournament sparked? Look at all the great matches that came from it. This is not hyperbole. MWE has the best tag team division in the world. I can not be anymore proud than to be here tonight. Win or lose, all of us are going to put on a show. We all win!
The crowd cheers to Neil Newman’s warm hearted sentiment. He turns to Kyle.
Neil Newman:
Anything you want to say?
Kyle Butler:
Gonna be hard to top that. I won’t bother. I get what you’re saying. We all win, tag team wrestling wins , all that is true, Neil. I am a winner, too. Never expected us to reform the Golden Era. I was content at home watching our wives dominant there tag team division. It would be cool as hell to win tonight, go to night two, beat The Brothers McMillion, possibly for the first time ever two married couples be tag team champions at the same time. Our wives in GCW. Us in MWE. History being made is golden. But back to me feeling like a winner, even if we don’t walk away completing the task we set out to do, I love you man. You are my best friend. My brother. We’re family. Teaming with you makes me feel all shades of positive emotions. I’m gonna stop before I start crying. Save the tears for later.
Kyle and Neil hug each other. They hold the embrace as the crowd can’t help but warm up to these guys. The Golden Era separate. They stare at the camera.
Kyle Butler:
ROOOOOOOOOOOLL TIDE, BAY BAY.
Neil and Kyle walk off camera as the scene fades to black.
Tag Team Tournament Match
Four Way Elimination Match
Four Way Elimination Match
BreeTee Committee VS Golden Era VS Jetpack VS Most Valuable Friends
For a little over one month, 12 tag teams battled it out to get here tonight, fighting for a chance to challenge the Brothers McMillion tomorrow night with the titles on the line. Jet Blanchard decided to start the match for his team, just like he did in back in January this year in the final of the first tag tournament, ultimately won by Jetpack. Superstition? Maybe. Or perhaps just the same competitive spirit that was driving the BreeTee Committee as well, specifically Bree Smith who didn't hesitate to step up to the challenge. Their teammates and the other two teams took the respective corners, and the match was finally underway. It started with the two competitors locking horns in the middle of the ring for the most classic of test of strength. Bree had a slight power advantage and was able to turn things around after Jet took control exploiting the leverage his height gave him. She pushed him a few steps back, before sending him to the mat with a shoulder tackle. She jumped over him and went to hit the ropes, ducking under the leapfrog and rebounding back into a picture perfect dropkick from the athletic Georgia born. Jet quickly went to tag Penny, and together they lifted Bree with a suplex. Kaplan floated into a pinning predicament, Smith kicked out with easily. Kyle Butler entered the ring after a blind tag when Penny hit the ropes, waiting until the unaware Bree had her back turned to slide in behind her back and surprise her with a German suplex that sent her close to the Most Valuable Friends corner, where Dickie was more than happy to take the tag and show what he's capable of. In all honesty, his partner didn't seem to endorse or share his enthusiasm, having preferred a later involvement so as not to waste energy. But Dickie jumped right into the match, leaping over the top rope and ducking under Butler's extended arm and quickly turned around, kicking the Golden Era member in the stomach and following with a gamengiri kick. Tag to Aubrianna and double superkick to the kneeling opponent, followed by a quick lateral press for a pinfall attempt interrupted by Newman. Kyle eventually caught Powers with a scoop powerslam finding the break he needed to reach Neil in his corner. The former Underground Tapout champion had had enough as well, crawling to the nearest corner which happened to be Jetpack's and tagging Penelope in. Kaplan and Newman met in the middle of the ring, locking up for a brief moment before Neil slid behind her back and dropped her with a belly to back suplex. Penny was quickly back on her feet and rocked him with a forearm shot, first of a series of swift strikes with both her hands and feet, ending her sequence with a discus lariat to take him down. After a spinning elbow drop she made the cover, only worth a two count. Jetpack started working together showing that chemistry that made them the first MWE tag team champions. Neil was now blocked in their corner, constantly under pressure with the former champions quick tags. Jet and Penny connected the Shine On/Doublemint combination but once again Neil kicked out. Somehow Newman found the opening and dove towards the MVF, making the tag to Dickie. Him and Jet gave the fans a quick and technical exchange, with Blanchard almost getting the three count with a spinning wheel kick and Harter with his Big Dickie Energy (detonation kick). Aubrianna asked for the tag and Dickie was happy to oblige, allowing the blondie to enter the ring. She didn't go on the attack, waiting instead for Jet to get up, like a predator stalking a prey. Then she knocked him down with a reverese roundhouse kick and followed with a springboard moonsault, a combination known as the Powers that be. A move that earned her so many wins in career, and tonight was no exception, although with a little help from Butler who pulled Penny off the apron preventing her from making the save. Rumchata Ayano: Jetpack has been eliminated! Shock is the word that best describes the look on the face of the fans, the commentary team and Penny. The first ever MWE tag team champions and winner of the first ever MWE tag team tournament were out. Nonetheless a huge round of applause accompanied them as they headed backstage from pretty much everyone bar Golden Era, who waved their hands in mockery. Aubrianna was still gloating about the elimination with her partner when Teagan clubbed her with a forearm to the head from behind. The force behind her blow sent Aubrianna against face first against the turnbuckle. Despite having just left the ring, Dickie took the tag to allow his partner to recover from the hard blow. And once again the young Harter put on a great performance, resisting Teegs initial outburst, kicking out from a nasty fisherman ddt and eventually catching her with a Pele Kick. Gallagher stumbled back in the Golden Era corner. Both Neil and Kyle patted her on the shoulder and entered the ring, double teaming a puzzled Dickie with a double clothesline. The referee tried to convince one of them to leave, but they were getting none of it, insisting on the two on one attack. Until Aubrianna stepped in to rescue her partner, finding herself outnumbered as Dickie was currently laying on the mat. Newman left his partner to deal with Powers as he knocked Bree off the apron with a forearm strike. This caused Teagan to enter the ring, Neil quickly stepped back recoiling toward his corner. The referee had just managed to separate Aubrianna and Kyle, sending them back to the respective corners when he had to do the same to Gallagher. Dickie had just got up to his feet when Newman kicked him between the legs, obviously while the referee had his back turned. He then made the tag, holding Harter in a bear hug while Butler hit him with a lariat, making the cover while his partner kept Powers from interfering. Rumchata Ayano: The Most Valuable Friends have been eliminated! The boos were loud, but they couldn’t change the fact that Dickie and Aubrianna’s dream to challenge the MWE Tag Team champions ended with the End Of An Era. And now, the tournament was an affair between Golden Era and BreeTee Committee, between Butler and Bree. The blonde powerhouse didn’t shy away from the brawl Kyle challenged her to, holding her own against the Boston born, at least until he stomped her foot and followed with a headbutt. Another powerful lariat knocked Bree down, but not for long as she kicked out in two. Golden Era were like a demolition crew, picking Bree apart with quick tags and heavy strikes, mostly targeting her ribs and midsection. Butler lifted her and dropped her on his knee with a rib breaker, making the tag and dragging her once again back to her feet, while Newman crouched in the three point stance. When his partner fired Smith against the ropes, he caught her on the rebound with a wicked spear. Gallagher made the save. Things were looking pretty bad for Bree and her team, the blonde powerhouse was unable to create the opening and reach her partner to get that tag she needed like a breath of fresh air (no pun intended). Instead, she found herself from the frying pan right into the fire, locked in Newman’s tight embrace as he held her up for The End Of An Era. With a desperate attempt, Bree broke free and pushed Newman back against the charging Butler, knocking both members of the Golden Era down in one move. Now the hardest part was to pull herself up and reach her partner on the opposite side of the ring, more so considering that, although currently knocked down, Kyle and Neil were blocking her way. Slowly, struggling and holding her injured ribs, she started walking toward the corner, passing both members of the Golden Era and stretching out to reach Teegs extended hand. A fingertip away, that’s how close she was Butler grabbed her foot and tripped her over. Bree landed face first on the mat, still trying unsuccessfully to make that tag. Kyle dragged her to the center of the ring, Bree rolled on her back and put to good use all those leg days she never skipped, pushing Kyle away and sending him once again against his partner. And finally Teagan entered the ring like a hurricane, swinging kicks and punches lefts and rights to both Kyle and Neil. Before the referee managed to do his job, the duo managed to hit Gallagher with a powerbomb onto the knee. This granted Neil an advantage, picking Teagan up and sending her against the ropes to catch her with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. Gallagher came really close to the win with a sudden superkick that caught Newman straight on the jaw, flooring him. Butler broke up the pinning predicament with a vicious stomp to the back of the head. A couple of minutes later, devastating lariat turned Teagan inside out. Newman dragged her back to her feet and, with a clear cut-throat sign, he let everyone know that he was going for the kill. He lifted the Irish girl in a vertical suplex position, setting her up for the End Game. Thinking quick, Teagan hit him with a knee to the head, and quickly rolled him up with a small package. Neil's kick out cam just one moment too late, once again a small package was fatal for Golden Era. Teagan quickly rolled out of the ring to escape Newman's furious reaction, joining her partner and celebrating the big win with the fans as they walked up the ramp. WINNER: The BreeTee Committee BY: Pinfall (Small Package), 20:38 |
Zackary Dyson: "What a match! And what a win for Bree and Teagan!"
Sir Figgles: "It's a travesty! My boys were robbed!"
Zackary Dyson: "How were they robbed?"
Sir Figgles: "Small Packages should be illegal! This is the second time it happens to Golden Era! It's a fluke!"
Zackary Dyson: "Perhaps your boys need to do something about it... Anyway, tomorrow night is going to be BreeTee Committee versus Brothers McMillion. Titles on the line."
Sir Figgles: "It should've been Golden Era..."
Sir Figgles: "It's a travesty! My boys were robbed!"
Zackary Dyson: "How were they robbed?"
Sir Figgles: "Small Packages should be illegal! This is the second time it happens to Golden Era! It's a fluke!"
Zackary Dyson: "Perhaps your boys need to do something about it... Anyway, tomorrow night is going to be BreeTee Committee versus Brothers McMillion. Titles on the line."
Sir Figgles: "It should've been Golden Era..."
There was an eerie silence, the lightest of rustling, and the slightest breeze coming from an open window. The room was black, as was the cloak of the figure was slowly span into the room, terrifying black wings spread wide that seemed to flap something horrific. And their face, covered fully by a Plague Raven’s mask, their features shrouded entirely.
Anastasia Starling:
Feel the vibe, feel the terror, feel the pain. It's driving me insane. I can't fake for God's sake, why am I driving in the wrong lane?
Came the voice though, singing so beautifully, hauntingly, with the most delicious of jazz tones that would make a true professional so jealous they couldn’t serve it up as a sugary sweet dessert for the ears.
Anastasia Starling:
Trouble is my middle name, but in the end I'm not too bad. Can someone tell me if it's wrong to be so mad.... about you...
Starling pulled away the feathered freak of a mask from her face, revealing her beautiful features beneath, but her eyes still shrouded by a mask, one that more represented a Black Swan, almost identical to the one her famous mother wore.
Anastasia Starling:
Don’t worry… I think you girls have got me a different kind of mad altogether.
The evil glint in those green and blues vanished as she smiled, so sickly sweet and cherry red, a faint showing of pure happiness before the seriousness of her posture and tone came back into play.
Anastasia Starling:
It’s difficult to add on to what I said this past week, the messages that were spilled out for all to hear, whether my honest and shared opinions on Luna’s strike, and the long sought out opinion and reasoning for my attack on Tiffany Rollins.
She shrugged her shoulders, moving over to a table covered with a black cloth, what seemed to be a meat grinder rested upon it, and the vegan Starling peered down upon the device. Her outfit was of the blackened bird, but instead this time there were accents of colour, but unexpectedly those colours, accents upon the feathers, were that of sky blue and baby pink.
Anastasia Starling:
Much more difficult with so many little comments back, both during the event and the aftermath. But I can only presume preparations were being made, they were keeping their heads down, training as hard as they can, mentally working their minds to be for the main event of the year ending extravaganza. Plotting, plotting, plotting. Sure, I have done my fair share of this over the past weeks, biding my time as I wait for the opportunity, working towards a goal I have been aiming towards for such a long time, and ensuring that nothing, nothing, nothing gets in my way.
She clenched her bare fists, her nails also painted in this dual colours, and her right hand clung to that golden necklace around her neck as she rambled on, searching for her inner calm. There was a shrill call, and she smiled, looking over to the raven Alexa in the corner, who seemed to be clutching a few name tags in its beak, business passes, and there were a good five or six dangling down from lanyards.
Anastasia Starling:
The Cloud Gate Championship, as I have explained before, is a title of much wealth, so much history and I can’t see any reason why this would not be the goal and aim and trophy in mind for any and all who sign for the Green Brand. Everyone in the back would kill, pillage, murder for an oppotunity like this… And to say I have not lifted a fresh, shiny new championship belt in nearly two years, back when I won the Rebirth World Championship in Phoenix. It’s so strange, that in a career filled with such high moments, the past two years of my career… my life… have been building to something else. Away from gold, away from glory, away from everything I was fought for. Now I fight for something else.
She closed her eyes again, holding onto that gold.
Anastasia Starling:
It’s all about the message.
She took in a breath, before she found herself singing again, so stunningly and effortlessly, the Songbird played out her acapella tune.
Anastasia Starling:
Are you the fishy wine who will give me a headache in the morning. Or just a dark blue land mine that'll explode without a decent warning. Give me all your true hate and I'll translate it in our...
She paused, grinning like a Cheshire Cat as she let go of the chain, peering into the camera once more, pulling out a little clay figure from behind the grinder, one that looked like a beautiful swan. She peered at it for a moment, with such love and affection painted upon her features.
Anastasia Starling:
I often find myself going off topic, wittering on for twenty five minutes or so to draw the ire of someone who never really cared, of someone who was selfish and wanted the attention all to themselves. To another who would play the game and dangle forbidden fruit in front of the unsuspecting, manipulating their mind and indoctrinating them to believe what they believed was precious. Moulding them like this clay, from something beautiful and pure, wanting and nurturing, something true and honest and honourable and turning them… turning them into…
She toyed with the figure for a moment, before she placed it into the grinder, turning the device on with a rumble, as she looked down at the pretty artwork, as it slipped into destruction. From the grinder, the clay oozed out, looking like long strings of noodles that stuck to the tablecloth, and she wiped a tear at the ruin of the clay.
Anastasia Starling:
The puppeteer will always pull these strings, and so many are controlled by their whims, even if they seem so good natured and fair, there are so many dark materials that twist and tear and grip your heart, ripping it apart and turning you into something else. Turning you into nothing but the trash that they in fact are.
She peered over to her raven once more, which dropped the tags on the table, as Anastasia counted them out, before shaking her head, tags that seemed very similar to the ones of the person who had seemingly followed her apart the past few weeks, the mysterious suited individuals.
Anastasia Starling:
Tiffany and Luna fell down this path, whether they admit to it or not, played like warrior puppets on a path that led us here. And I was played as well… Part of me feels like I shouldn’t even be here, that I should be somewhere else, on another mission, another quest, following another path and everything but me led me to this dance… But here I am. Watching over you and looking out for that beautiful gold upon a bright, blue sky… And I don’t deserve any of the good in this world as I am broken, flawed, ruined, beaten, battered, bruised and wrong, wrong, wrong, wrong… But I was taught there is still hope out there, and that hope is what drives me on, further than anything has ever driven me before. And that hope will maybe, possibly… possibubbly… Heh… Open an eye or two, and make someone, some people, someone special make a difference.
She smiled again, clutching onto that chain, mouthing the words “Evolve, Die, Transcend” under her breath, before she opened her eyes once more.
Anastasia Starling:
Luna… Tiffany… I face you tonight with true purpose and mixed messages… And I am going to make you understand that message. The path will be cleared. If I am blessed enough, the clouds will be around my waist… And you’ll be mad at me… But I’m mad about you.
With that, the camera moved elsewhere, and the scene faded away.
Cloud Gate Championship Match
Triple Threat
Tiff Rollins (c) VS Luna Smith VS Anastasia StarlingTriple Threat
Over the past year the Cloud Gate Championship has gathered a lot of interest amongst the MWE fans, even surpassing for a long of time the MWE title in their eyes as the most prestigious title in the company. And the merit must certainly be credited to Tiff Rollins, who won it back in January and carried it for over 300 days, defeating any and every competitor that was put up against, including literal giants of the industry like Aries Armadaist and Seth Iser who, for different reason, came to MWE to try dethrone her. Unsuccessfully. This title reign has been a roller-coaster of emotions for the nineteen years old, whose life has been turned upside down during her rivalry against Megan Rydell, where the woman who tomorrow night will challenge Devin Hearst for the Riot Championship exposed the truth about her lineage. But nothing ever hit her as close and as hard as the events happened in the past two months. Tonight, wasn't only her last obstacle before surpassing the historic one year landmark. Tonight it was her shot at the woman who costed her her relationship and the one who accused her of turning her back on her mentor and his family. It wasn't just about the title anymore, it was personal. The thirty-four thousand in attendance, a record attendance for a MWE pay-per-view, welcomed with the loudest cheers Tiff Rollins, an opposite reaction to the reception they accorded to her opponents. Boos and jeers for the former Lockdown Champion and a mixed reaction for Anastasia Starling, with the ever-present "Monster" chants that had been haunting the circus raised beauty for months now. Ana was clutching at her necklace, her eyes locked on Tiffany as the nineteen years old champion entered the ring and proudly raised her title in the air. Then the match began, and the champion was the first to break the ice doubling Luna over with a kick to the midsection and surprising Ana with a discus clothesline. She was a fury, the tiny blonde, keeping both opponents at bay with hard and swift strikes. The fans were already going crazy, accompanying every strike with roars of approval. With a hard kick to the leg she dropped Luna on her knees, turning around just in time to duck Anastasia's blow and, with a dropkick, throwing her out of the ring. When she looked back at Luna, the Star Of The Night was in the perfect position for the Deathkick. Rollins made the cover but Starling came back in time to break it up. A dazzled Luna rolled under the bottom rope to catch a break, leaving Luna and Ana to settle this. There they were, the Pale Winged Passerine and the Five Foot Murder Machine finally face to face. The raven mask hiding Ana's emotions, although you could see the storm brewing in her greens and blues. Tiffany wasn't even trying to hide hers, gritting her teeth and clenching her fists. The entire arena fell, for a moment, in a silence loaded with tension. It didn't last long, just like the calm between the two contestants a few seconds, and then they jumped at each other's throat, swinging right hands in this all-out brawl. An unusual sight to see Starling adopting this kind of fighting style. She, who's usually seen flipping and flying all across the ring, was tonight showing her proficiency in a more "street" style, holding her own against Rollins in an intense exchange where both competitors poured all their feelings into every shot, all this under the stern look of Andreas Lasiewicz sitting in the front row. Tiffany came out victorious from the exchange and grabbed Ana's wrist for an Irish whip, countered by Starling who then jumped over the running champion with a leapfrog. Tiff hit the ropes on the opposite side, rebounding back into a leg lariat. Ana wasted no time to jump on the middle rope and flip backwards with a springboard moonsault, landing on the champion's raised knees. Luna came back into the match with a springboard dropkick to take Ana down. The Star Of The Night attacked the champion with her Krav Maga based offense, something Rollins had grown quite accustomed to and learned how to counter, defending herself and taking down Luna with a leg sweep. As soon as the former Lockdown champion touchéd floor, Ana came jumping from behind her with a single leg dropkick, catching the champ right on the mush. The impact sent Rollins through the ropes and crashing outside. For a moment it appeared that Anastasia was considering diving to the outside, but then she second guessed her choice, focusing on Luna and planting her on top of her head with a springboard reverse rana. She then charged at Rollins, who was heading back into the ring and sent her back down with a baseball slide, quickly turning back around and kicking Luna on the head with the Our Lady Peace (spinning bicycle kick). The Monster For The Millennium hooked the legs for a deep cover but the blonde beauty kicked out. It wasn't an easy night for the champion, who once again was laying on the outside after a superkick from Luna. Ana came charging at her but Smith dodged her and pulled down the top rope. Ana landed on the apron and quickly ducked the right hand the Star Of The Night threw at her, staggering the former Lockdown Champion with a left jab. The fans were in awe as Starling wiped out Tiff with a beautiful Asai moonsault landing on her feet. The action wasn't over yet as Luna threw herself like a projectile through the ropes and knocked the Raven back against the barricade. She then picked up the dazed champion and rolled her back in the ring, attempting a pinfall with a springboard shooting star press that earned her another two count. The pace of the match remained quick, favouring the two challenges over the champion. Her reign came this close to an end in more than one occasion, first when Anastasia caught her with the Angra Mainyu, a diving blockbuster from the top rope. Luckily for her, Luna was there to make the save. And as soon as the Songbird pulled herself up, Luna hit her with the Starstorm. The discus spinning Roundhouse Kick caught Smith on the face and knocked her down, but the blonde still had the strength to kick out before the three. Anastasia ended up back first against the corner when Luna reversed the Irish whip. When Smith was about to charge at her, Tiffany slammed her face first on the canvas with a bulldog, standing back up and running at full speed toward Ana who, by now, had rested enough to lift herself and place her feet on Rollins' chest, stomping her to the mat. Ana then pulled herself to the top rope and was about to take flight, when out of nowhere came Luna, quickly running up the ropes and caught the Songbird with the Night Skyfall, an absolutely reckless Spanish fly that caused both of them land on the poor Cloud Gate Champion. As Ana rolled away, clutching at her ribs after the landing on Tiffany's legs, the referee started to count as Luna was laying motionless on the champion. Showing great ring awareness, Tiffany grabbed the bottom rope with her hand. After fifteen minutes, the pace began to slow down, also due to fatigue starting to kick in. And this played right in the champion's hand, allowing her to control the ring better and keep the opponents in check, finally building some momentum. She hit the cornered Ana flurry of open hand chops, sidestepping at the last moment to avoid Luna and her jumping back elbow that connected to Starling's face instead. The two of them were now piled against the turnbuckle, perfect position for Rollins dropkick who then pushed Luna aside with her foot to flip Anastasia over with a snapmare and kick her as hard as she could right on the back. Not satisfied, she took a short run to the ropes and went for a shining wizard, obtaining another count of two. It was all Rollins in this final part of the match, the product of HKW developmental system RISE showing why she had been champion for so long, handing on that Cloud Gate title with an iron grip for almost a year. Stealing a page from her adoptive mother Brytain Rollins, who had a heated rivalry against Starling not too long ago, she hit the Pale Winged Passerine with the Pink Haired Grenade's characteristic swinging neckbreaker, leaving Ana rolling on the mat in pain while she took her attention back to Luna, who was only now standing back to her feet after the Spinning Bird Kick from the niece of Andreas Lasiewicz. For her, Tiff had a ripcord version of her mentor's leaping high knee in store, but not even the Peacemaker could keep Luna down for the three count. A Deathkick would definitely do the trick, but before she had the chance to hit it, she was blindsided by Ana's own version of the Peacemaker, hitting the Cloud Gate champ on the nape. The champ was down, Luna was barely standing… This was Anastasia's best chance to win the title. And she knew it. Her eterochromia afflicted eyes quickly scanning through the crowd, spotting her beloved uncle and almost looking for approval, or an encouragement from him in this dramatic moment. The Godfather of Wrestling didn't flinch, keeping his eyes on the action. Something Ana should have done as well, and that would have avoided her a superkick from Luna. The Star Of The Night then picked up the Songbird, who hit her with a desperate and extremely effective The Sweetest Nut. The hard headbutt knocked Luna back down. Although a bit dizzy from her own mice, Ana still climbed to the top rope. Thirty-four thousand people held their breath as the former SSWA World Champion jumped from the turnbuckle and floated in the air twisting her body for her Phoenix Splash… DEATHKICK! Out of nowhere came Rollins with a perfectly timed Deathkick. The Songbird was shot down by the young champion's lethal kick. Ana hadn't move since then, knocked out by the unexpected reaction from Tiffany, who spotted Luna slowly getting back to her knees out of the corner of her eye. Not a single soul was expecting anything different from what happened one moment later. Rollins sent Luna to dreamland with another Deathkick. Exhausted, she made the cover, successfully retaining her Championship once again. WINNER: Tiff Rollins (STILL CHAMPION) BY: Pinfall (Deathkick), 21:51 |
Peyton Holland:
She... She did it again!
Jessi Idol:
Tiff Rollins once again defeat the odds and retained the Cloud Gate Championship!
Zackary Dyson:
You know what I just noticed? The next Millennium show will be on January 8th, one day before the one year mark.
Sir Figgles:
There will be a party?
Jessi Idol:
God, I hope so...
Peyton Holland:
Well, I don't know about that. But sure that's one hell of an accomplishment for the Five Foot Deathmachine.
Zackary Dyson:
Well, ladies and gentlemen, this is all for this first night. Way Of The Dragon comes back tomorrow with more action, and more titles on the line!
Jessi Idol:
Good night everyone!
She... She did it again!
Jessi Idol:
Tiff Rollins once again defeat the odds and retained the Cloud Gate Championship!
Zackary Dyson:
You know what I just noticed? The next Millennium show will be on January 8th, one day before the one year mark.
Sir Figgles:
There will be a party?
Jessi Idol:
God, I hope so...
Peyton Holland:
Well, I don't know about that. But sure that's one hell of an accomplishment for the Five Foot Deathmachine.
Zackary Dyson:
Well, ladies and gentlemen, this is all for this first night. Way Of The Dragon comes back tomorrow with more action, and more titles on the line!
Jessi Idol:
Good night everyone!