Post by gvb on Jun 20, 2020 14:20:09 GMT -6
Millennium LXV
Live from Enterprise Arena in Chicago, IL
Wednesday, June 17th, 2020
"When Legends Rise" by Godsmack blares out of the loudspeakers, echoing inside the empty Enterprise Arena. Peyton Holland and Ambra Monroe welcome the fans watching at home and quickly move to introduce tonight's card. Starting from the opening contest where Luna takes on Teddy Steele, moving to the match between Melissa Reeves and the huge Enforcer, surely a challenge for the former MWE World Champion. Another former champion in action, Duke Andrews squaring off against the long time rival Christian Michales, while his partners in crime of APE will be involved in a tag match against Fabulous. Other matches sees BROOKFORD against the Chicago Way Champion Joey Leclair and Jacky Rex Daniels taking on Kenzie Garrett. But of course, all eyes are on the main event, the cage match between Seth Iser and Keelan Jayce, with the winner punching his ticket for the Battle Of The Briefcase final at By Any Means.
Singles Match
Teddy Steele VS LunaThe last Millennium before the summer break opened with this match between Luna and Teddy Steele. Things have been a bit rough for the former Lockdown champion since coming up short in her chase to the Cloud Gate title. A few ups, way too many down for the blonde girl who desperately needs to get her career back on the right track. But something was off with her, probably the confidence that always characterized the Star Of The Night had been affected by the recent poor performances. And so the beginning of the match was in Teddy’s favor, the man’s attacks, although simple and sometimes predictable, were constantly hitting the mark, mostly because of Luna’s poor start. In the first minutes Steele came close to the three in a few occasion after a diving elbow drop and a sitout powerslam. Luna was standing dazed in the middle of the ring, trying to catch Teddy with some swift strikes that lacked precision, making it real easy for Steele to dodge them and counter with some more jabs, weaving from side to side. It was the You Ain’t So Bad punching combination, one of his trademark moves to set up the big knockout punch. Luna was expecting that and stepped aside, dodging the punch and hitting a knee to the ribs, following with a swinging neckbreaker. As the time went by, the former Lockdown champion seemed to regain some confidence with every strike that connected on Teddy, who soon found himself in the corner. Luna used an illegal choke, pressing her foot on his throat, letting him go when the referee’s count reached four. With an irish whip, she sent Teddy in the opposite corner but he countered it, and she was the one ending up back first against the turnbuckle. After a running uppercut, Teddy climbed up to the second rope and began punching her on the head. Luna was able to free one hand and connect one of her throat strikes, leaving Teddy breathless and seizing the opportunity to slip away between his legs. Since he was still on the middle rope, she positioned him for her Dark Side Of Luna (cheeky nandos kick) rolling him up for a cover. Steele kicked out in two and tried anshy reaction, but despite the thumb to the eye giving him a bit of an edge, Luna quickly regained control with her Starstorm, flooring the eclectic man. The former Lockdown champion quickly climbed to the top rope and connected the Stardom (sparkle splash) to pick up the win. WINNER: Luna BY: Pinfall (Stardom), 7:14 |
Peyton Holland: "Teddy had a good start, but once Luna found her footing, she easily surfed toward the win."
Ambra Monroe: "Things have been fluctuating for her recently, this win may be what she needs to get back on the right track."
Ambra Monroe: "Things have been fluctuating for her recently, this win may be what she needs to get back on the right track."
We cut backstage to find Enganche hanging around in a random corridor. The masked man is wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, jeans and white trainers - casual attire as he's not scheduled to compete. Enganche slouches against the wall, seemingly relaxed but with a strange vigour in his piercing eyes.
Enganche:
I'm not wrestling tonight, I'm just here to watch my friend Keelan Jayce in the main event. He welcomed me to MWE with open arms and believe me, that warmth and kindness will not be forgotten. But before I take my seat and enjoy the rest of the show, I need to talk about something which happened last week. Before the false prophet was martyred, he foolishly attempted to remove my mask. I appreciate the traditions of lucha libre but I'm not wearing this for cultural reasons, no, it's because I'm not in the enviable position where fame - or infamy - is beneficial. The components of our society are interconnected and work systematically to neutralise a targeted individual, hence I would rather stay off grid as much as humanly possible in these strange times. I could elaborate further but I don't want to give my future opponents any more of an incentive to unmask me. I just want them all to know the response will be severe. Kross should be grateful his ended with a plain old piledriver, not a piledriver onto thumb tacks.
He pauses, looking down at his tensed knuckles for a moment.
Enganche:
But instead I am patiently waiting for an opportunity to compete without constraints. See, I've always thought hardcore wrestling is my natural element. After all, pain is largely mental and its our brain circuits which interpret the information from our sensory nerves to tell us we're hurt. Sure it can be intensified by a sense of unease or fear but I've found mindfulness allows me to regulate how my brain reacts, to find calm amidst chaos. The internet generation would be amazed at what you can learn from some goat herders in the mountains of Nepal. As such, limitations of violence only favour my opponents. When given the chance, I will shed blood - both theirs and mine - for this company. I will show you the real Chicago Way.
He closes in to the camera, his eyes wide.
Enganche:
All in due time.
The camera suddenly cuts out for a few seconds before switching view to another one further down the corridor with Enganche walking towards us. In the foreground, we see Isla Moore, PR agent, with a handful of paperwork in one hand and an iPhone in the other. She raises her eyebrows as Enganche greets her with a shrug of the shoulders.
Isla Moore:
That was kinda...
Enganche:
Intense?
Isla Moore:
Yeah, it was cool but uh, just remember we want kids to buy your mask one day.
Enganche:
I thought kids love a brooding aesthetic - what about that girl who just won every Grammy ever?
Isla Moore:
Billie Eilish.
Enganche:
Probably their biggest export since Enya. You know, I met her at a party once, back when I was Petey Pablo's bodyguard.
She screws her face up in complete bemusement.
Isla Moore:
Anyway, I've been thinking...
Enganche:
Cogito, ergo sum.
With narrowed eyes, she exhales.
Isla Moore:
I want to renegotiate your MWE contract.
Enganche:
But I've only just walked through the door, it's not like-
Isla Moore:
Hear me out. I'm not going to haggle over your basic appearance fee because as you said, you're new. But I want your inevitable rise here to be rewarded appropriately. I propose a 20% increase for a standard win bonus, 35% increase on any championship wins or defences and freedom for you to pursue independent merchandise or media opportunities without ANY cuts.
Enganche:
Even yours?
She rolls her eyes, ignores him and continues.
Isla Moore:
You're on a 3 month trial with the option for MWE to extend a further 9 months, right?
Enganche:
Erm, yeah - something like that.
Isla Moore:
I'll go in for a 12 month deal but we'll have to make a concession somewhere... like exclusivity.
Enganche:
So I can't wrestle anywhere else. Hmm.
She grits her teeth and nods, anxiously waiting for his verdict.
Enganche:
All my life I've bounced around from place to place, working random jobs. I'm instinctively transient.
Isla Moore:
It's not like you're asking me for other bookings - you don't even want to work weekends!
Enganche:
I know, it's just hard to imagine being tied down.
He pauses, pondering his future with a hand on his masked chin. He suddenly turns to Isla.
Enganche:
But it depends who's tying me, I don't want you to think I'm vanilla.
Isla Moore:
Shut up.
He chuckles and starts walking past Isla down the corridor.
Enganche:
I'll think about it. But come on, lets watch Keelan's match. This business is full of bastards but he's one of the good ones.
She opens her mouth to carry on the discussion but stops herself and trudges after him as we fade to black.
Singles Match
Jacky Rex Daniels VS Kenzie GarrettThe former Chicago Way champion didn’t look intimidated by the “aura” surrounding the former Rebellion World Champion. She was probably used to his mannerisms and antics, having seen him in action in OWF, and as soon as the bell rang she went for a spinning wheel kick. Luckily for Jacky his sharp reflexes allowed him to dodge the potential KO blow, and counter with a right hook. Kenzie ducked it and hit him with a quick combination of punches to the mid section, pushing Daniels back against the ropes.He countered the following irish whip, but when Garrett bounced back from the ropes, she took him off guard with a running headscissors takedown, followed by a dropkick to the back of the head and a springboard moonsault. Jacky kicked out in two, blocking Kenzie’s right hand and rocking her with a couple of forearms to the jaw, grabbing her head in a front lock and spinning to drop her down with a neckbreaker slam. And slowly he started building momentum, his brawling style resulting extremely effective on Garrett, blocking her in the corner from where she couldn’t use her speed to her advantage. Jacky’s debut in singles competition has been impressive so far, the Australian definitely living up the hype following his signing and dominating the match against a former champion in Kenzie Garrett with moves like the ripcord Saito suplex called Ex-Oblivione and a devastating bicycle knee strike. Well known for being able to withstand a lot of punishment, Kenzie kept kicking out, trying to fight back blow for blow despite the power disadvantage. What she gave up in terms of pure strength, she made up for with quickness, hitting a flurry of strikes to the face. Daniels was dazed, the Soulknife piling up on it with quick knee strikes and finishing him with a roaring elbow. She was quick to make the cover but it only gave her a two count. More strikes were waiting for Jacky as he got up, and the former Chicago Way champion moved behind his shoulders to take him down with a backstabber, looking to apply her Ryuuenbu. The former member of Hellcats was able to escape and quickly get back to his feet, turning off the lights for Kenzie with a punt kick to the head. A snap of his fingers was the signal that Jacky was ready to end the match. And he did it, with his Synesthesia WINNER: Jacky Rex Daniels BY: Pinfall (Synesthesia), 10:28 |
Peyton Holland: "A big win for Jacky tonight, against a former champ... Wait, what's going on?"
The tron flickers to life, much like it has in recent weeks, though this time in lieu of an eye we see ‘The Promised’ Freddie Hjalmar sat back on an ornate leather chair, presumably at home. With his signature coronet holding back his long blonde hair, Freddie offers a slight smirk down the lens of the camera before the Millenium wrestler leans forward slightly.
Freddie Hjalmar:
Now I see you, Jacky.
The hint of a chuckle escapes his lips as he slumps back in the chair, his arms draped over the chairs’ - the picture of nonchalant.
Freddie Hjalmar:
For all this time you’ve been following me around, tormenting me, stalking me...and for what? Under the guile that you wish to help me. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it once more, Jacky. You do not know me. You do not know The Promised. You do not know what it means to BE The Promised.
His brow furrows slightly.
Freddie Hjalmar:
You finally came into my eyeline, blindsiding me, attacking me from behind - and last week I showed you I can play that game too. Without your tricks, without your smoke and mirrors, you are nothing. So you stand there, and realise that finally, we fight on my terms. No games. Just wrestling.
Hjalmar adjusts his coronet, aiming another smirk towards the camera before he signs off.
Freddie Hjalmar:
You will see why I am The Promised.
With that Freddie waves his hand dismissively towards the camera and the shot quickly fades to black.
Singles Match
Enforcer VS Melissa ReevesIt was all Mel as the match began, a flurry of swift kicks caught the big man off guard and backed him in the corner. She climbed to the middle rope and started punching his face. Four, five, six, seven… Then Enforcer picked her up on his shoulders and, despite her trying to break free with more shots to the head, powerbombed her in the middle of the ring, looking to end things early with a deep cover. The Reaver kicked out in two, quickly getting back on her feet and working to take back control. Her speed allowed her to stay away from the opponent’s strikes and hit him with quick combinations, showing off her knowledge in martial arts, Wisely she began to target the legs, notoriously a weak spot for big men chopping Enforcer down to one knee, leveling him with a superkick right to the mush. Grabbing his huge right leg, she began twisting it and applying pressure on his knee. The 42 years old veteran used his free leg to break free with some hard kicks that left Mel stunned, unable to avoid the following lariat he turned her inside out with. With Enforcer now in the driver’s seat the pace of the match sensibly slowed down. He was in no rush, almost enjoying tossing the longest reigning world champion around with his power moves, or kicking her head off with the Mafia Kick. But Reeves was known to be a tough cookie, kicking out from his pinfall attempts. Enforcer kept wearing her down, but Mel never lost her composure, patiently waiting for the opportunity to turn things around. And when that happened, she didn’t miss it, slipping away from his gorilla press slam attempt and dragged him down with a rear mat slam. She took a moment to recover, allowing Enforcer to get back up to his feet and meeting him with more stiff kicks. A dropkick pushed the big man against the ropes and when he rebounded back, Mel doubled him over with a kick to the guts before dropping him down with a scissors kick. And back to work on his legs she went, with multiple stomps to the knee and a indian deathlock applied with mastery, from which Enforcer eventually got free. But Mel had him right where she wanted him now, and where she had a great advantage. The big man in fact was far from a technical wizard, unlike Melissa who flaunted a vast repertoire of submissions, switching from one to the next without giving Enforcer any chance to get up to his feet. Untile she locked him in her Iron Lock, and that’s all she wrote. WINNER: Melissa Reeves BY: Submission (Iron Lock), 9:43 |
Peyton Holland: "When they say that size don't matter..:"
Ambra Monroe: "A dominant performance from the former MWE World Champion, making quick job of the Enforcer tonight."
Ambra Monroe: "A dominant performance from the former MWE World Champion, making quick job of the Enforcer tonight."
The scene opens in a dimly lit locker room. The only person that can be seen is BROOKFORD.
He can be seen sitting on a brown bench. He’s wearing a black hoodie. The hoodie is covering his face. He is looking down at the floor lost in his own thoughts. One week ago he had a brutal NO DQ match with Seth Iser. The battle of the titans was everything it was advertised to be, both men didn’t disappoint. Seth went all out to put BROOKFORD down, a man who has been as close to unbeatable over the past year and a half as anyone else. How will a battle damaged BROOKFORD respond to being defeated without dispute?
There is a dark eerie feeling in the air as BROOKFORD twiddles his thumbs.
Is he aware a cameraman is in the room?
Is he even aware of the tweet Joey LeClair made about his intention to make BROOKFORD cry for mercy?
Whether he is or not we’ll never know. What we do know is BROOKFORD standing up. With no sound in the room his breathing becomes noticeable. He unleashes a pretty loud primal scream that could be heard if someone was outside the locker room.
The scene closes with BROOKFORD walking towards the door, opening it, slamming the door right behind him. He means business. Serious, business.
The scene opens up in an open field at night, and at the center of the field can be seen a man standing by a bonfire as the camera then moves forward to the man revealing it to be Joey Leclair.
Joey Leclair:
Here we are essentially a week away from our next big event in Millennium Wrestling Entertainment, and I know not if I even have a match which can be infuriating to most people especially since I am a champion of this company, and if I do have a match what kind of match is it? Who is my or who are my opponents? But you see I am not like most people in the fact that I worry not about trivial things.
Joey kneels down and picks up a piece of wood throwing it into the fire.
Joey Leclair:
I simply do what is required of me which is arrive kick ass, and leave so throw me to the wolves, and I’ll come back leader of the whole pack, and you might think it’s arrogance, but I have proven time and time again that I do not lie despite some foolish man claiming that I am a phony.
Joey spreads his arms apart stretching and taking a deep breath.
Joey Leclair:
But let him do whatever works for him, because kids will continue playing kids games with their name calling, and false accusations, and I tend not to waste my time on the words of children so now let’s move onto more present matters known as Brookford. I know you’re a big strong guy who can hit hard, and on paper one might say I am at a disadvantage, but to be honest? I have faced off against bigger fish and left them going home wimpering, and crying to their mamas, and I am by no means underestimating Brookford, because I am sure he is very talented, but tonight he just drew the wrong card, and he is going to get the beating of a lifetime.
Joey point up to the stars in the sky.
Joey Leclair:
Do you see it? A star not like the others, a star void of light.. a blackstar they say never wish upon a blackstar, but I find that particular star to be rather lucky. It makes you wonder what the landscape will look like within the next two years here in Millennium.
Joey smirks as the scenes fades to black.
Singles Match
BROOKFORD VS Joey LeclairBROOKFORD walked to the ring slowly, obviously not in the best shape of his career after the brutal match against Seth Iser only one week ago. A match he lost, something that doesn’t happen too often, leaving the commentators questioning how and if this would affect the Problem Solver mindset. Apparently it did not, from the psychological point of view BROOKFORD was just fine, focused and confident as always, even more determined to get the win and get back on the right track. But the injuries, those were still affecting him, and someone like the Death Dealer wasn’t going to waste any time to take advantage of that, targeting the body parts Iser worked on the most. The Problem Solver was flinching, but he wasn’t going down despite Joey hitting him with everything he got, including the Death Dealer Elbow Smash. This one caused the big man to stagger and the following bicycle kick finally took him off his feet. When he slid into a cover though, he only got a one count before the mercenary kicked out. As the match went on, BROOKFORD finally found his footing, beginning to pummel Leclair with his hard blows, including several headbutts. He then lifted Joey and dropped him on his knee with an atomic drop, using a big boot to level him. BROOKFORD kneeled over the opponent and rained down punches to his face, grabbing him by the throat with both hands to pull him back up to a vertical basis, sending him against the ropes with an irish whip and catching him with his spinning side slam. Joey kicked out, getting dragged back to his feet by BROOKFORD who was now picking the Chicago Way champion apart with a series of rapid fire forearm strikes, lifting him upside down for a brainbuster. Leclair reacted and dropped the knee to the top of his head, managing to get free from his grasp and follow with a superkick. The impact sent BROOKFORD against the ropes, from where he came back with a wicked clothesline that turned Joey inside out. Moving behind his back, the Problem Solver locked him in his half nelson choke called Lights Out, for what would have probably been a submission win if it wasn’t for Vin Halstead coming in and blasting Leclair in the face, causing the instant disqualification. WINNER: Joey Leclair BY: DQ, 13:31 |
Peyton Holland: "BROOKFORD probably had the match won, but then Vin Halstead decided to take another cheap shot at the Chicago Way champion."
Ambra Monroe: "I can tell you, BROOKFORD will not be happy with this.."
Unsurprisingly, the Problem Solver had something to say about Halstead's interference. The language he choose to speak to him was a closed fist right to the face. The big man staggered after BROOKFORD's blow, but he didn't get away so easily. The pissed off New Yorker powerbombed Vin out of the ring, turning his focus back on Joey who was now making it up to his feet. For him, BROOKFORD had a Problem... Solved in store, leaving the ring and two bodies behind him.
Ambra Monroe: "I can tell you, BROOKFORD will not be happy with this.."
Unsurprisingly, the Problem Solver had something to say about Halstead's interference. The language he choose to speak to him was a closed fist right to the face. The big man staggered after BROOKFORD's blow, but he didn't get away so easily. The pissed off New Yorker powerbombed Vin out of the ring, turning his focus back on Joey who was now making it up to his feet. For him, BROOKFORD had a Problem... Solved in store, leaving the ring and two bodies behind him.
Soft piano music is heard as the scene opens to an MWE Millennium logo backdrop. Standing in front of the Millennium logo backdrop is the gorgeous feminine figure of Summer Collins, one half of the tag team known as Fabulous. Her back is turned towards the camera and her long brown hair cascades down to below her shoulders. She is dressed in her ring gear and looks intense, ready to compete. The piano music slowly dies down and when it does, a soft, low chuckle escapes the lovely and very wealthy woman’s throat.
Summer Collins:
Every single time myself or my tag team partner Jessica Lasiewicz open our mouths there is always a loud, vocal group who doubts us. But then every single time we get the opportunity to go the ring, you know what we do? We shut them up. We silence the critics and we perform to our absolute best. Since joining MWE we have sought out the best and toughest of competition and we have pushed them all back. Last week MWE sent Strip Search our way and what did we do? We sent Strip Search packing.
She turns around to face the camera. Summer smiles devilishly into the camera.
Summer Collins:
Now we are presented with another test, perhaps one of our biggest tests since arriving with this company; American Pain Experience...or should I just call you APE? I think I’ll go with APE, because let’s be honest with each other shall we? There is only one place for an APE…inside of a cage. Filthy animals, brutes, dumb baboons; all of which can describe you lot, so I guess APE is a good name for you bunch of idiots.
Collins remains silent for a few moments. A few moments later “The Archangel” Jessica Lasiewicz enters the scene from stage right. The Archangel is wearing her wrestling gear and also is wearing a hooded coat with the hood portion pulled up to cover her head. Despite this covering we can tell that Jessica is very intense, just as intense as her best friend and tag team partner Summer Collins.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
Summer and I were born and raised into this sport. This sport has been our entire lives and that is how we became friends. So we are not ignorant to the realities of what we face. We are not ignorant to how this sport works. We know that when you face APE you face ALL of APE. And to that I say bring it on! Cheat all you want...use any dirty tricks you want...bring an army if you can muster it...
The Archangel points to Summer.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
Summer here is one of the dirtiest wrestlers there is. She knows every dirty trick ever written. Hell, she’s written a few chapters in that book of dirty tricks herself. And if you bring an army, well we have our own allies too willing to back us up and provide us with help if we want it. So if we are forced to fight fire with fire then so be it. Sometimes you can’t save the world, you just have to burn the whole damn thing to the ground and start over.
Summer Collins:
We’re also not ignorant to the fact that you two boys have major problems with our husbands, the reigning MWE World Tag Team Champions, Neil and Kyle. It doesn’t take a mind reader to figure out that for you little boys this is about sticking it to Neil and Kyle by fighting us and beating us. Go ahead with that mindset if you want but for Jess and I we’re entering this with a different mindset. Ultimately we want what Golden Era have, we want what you want, we want the tag team championship. So I hope the suits are paying attention because whenever Golden Era and APE get around to settling things...because like Jessica said, we’re not ignorant, we know you will settle this eventually...we want the next championship opportunity. And we’re going to prove it tonight by beating the pair of you.
The Archangel throws her hood off. We see the intense fire in her eyes.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
I’m sure Neil and Kyle will enjoy watching what we do to you but as much as we love them, this isn’t for them. Selfishly, this is for us. We’re going to win tonight and we’re going to look ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS doing it!
Jessica turns and walks away with Summer in tow.
Singles Match
Duke Andrews VS Christian MichaelsWhat would have been another chapter in the endless rivalry between Duke Andrews and Christian Michaels ended before it even started, The former Lockdown Champion had no intention on fighting the McMillion, showing up for his match accompanied by REDD Thunder and Alan Envy, his APE brother in arms. The referee was pushed away by the Waking Disaster as he entered the ring with the rest of the crew, surrounding Christian. Sure, the former Tag Team champion could have turned around and leave the ring on the only side left free by APE, but that just wasn’t him. Instead he charged at Envy, hitting him with some quick punches and immediately turning around to kick Duke in the stomach. He ducked REDD’s right hook and dropkicked the man a few steps back, bravely defending himself in this three on one situation but eventually the numbers game caught up, and things turned pretty bad for Christian. That until Hammerstein came out to the rescue, taking out REDD with a devastating lariat from behind. And soon after Javen rushed to the ring as well, helping his brother despite last week’s misunderstanding. And suddenly the tides turned, the trio getting the best out of APE as Hammerstein was keeping REDD busy and Javen took out Envy with a superkick. A second one from the Thrillbilly was looking to take out Duke, but the former Lockdown Champions dodged it and it caught his own brother instead. Javen looked in shock at Christian out cold, while Duke smiled and patted him on the back, turning his attention to Hammerstein and clubbing him with a forearm to the back The former Chicago Way Champion turned around, and as soon as he did, REDD caught him for his ripcord headbutt. Javen was now the only one standing, but rather than attacking him, Andrews thanked Javen for the assist. Paramedics came to check on Christian and Hammerstein, accompanying them backstage while APE remained in the ring. Their tag match was up next. WINNER: // BY: 0:00 |
Tag Team Match
Fabulous VS APE (REDD Thunder & Alan Envy)
Duke kept hanging at ringside for the tag match against Fabulous, acting like a coach for REDD and Alan, who started the match against Jessica Lasiewicz. A long chain wrestling sequence opened this contest, Jessica eventually was able to grab Alan in a waistlock but the Lonestar used a stiff elbow to the side of the head to break free and quickly apply a headlock, punching Jessica with his free hand as he dragged her into his corner, where Thunder made the tag. Alan pushed Jessica into his partner, who lifted her for a suplex. Alan then kicked her on the head as REDD dropped her to the mat with a brainbuster. Summer Collins rushed in and made the save, Halfway through the match Lasiewicz was in control, having been able to take REDD down to the mat and trying to wear him down with headlocks and chokes. The big man forced his way up to his feet and powered out of the submission, but Jessica was quick to jump on his back and apply a sleeper hold. In an attempt to get free, REDD backed toward the closest corner which, unfortunately for him, was the one where Summer was waiting. The tag was made and Collins entered the ring, picking up where her partner left with more holds aiming at cutting off the regular air flux. A couple of minutes later, with REDD[ barely standing, Summer went for a tornado ddt, picking up another near fall. But the big man came back with a second wind of offense, shaking Collins’ ribcage with some heavy open handed chops, launching her in the air for a pop up powerbomb, finally clearing the path to his corner where Alan was waiting for the tag. The Lonestar was on fire tonight, probably fight the best match he fought in months, dominating Summer and coming close to the win with the pop up death valley driver. Duke at ringside kept taunting Jessica, who kept her composure, not falling to his mind games. But then Duke got physically involved, blocking her as she tried to enter the ring and save her partner after Alan connected a brutal tilt a whirl backbreaker. The Archangel didn't hesitate to kick him in the face and the Epitome Of Perfection didn't think twice about about hitting her with a straight punch. The referee saw it and disqualified APE. WINNER: Fabulous BY: DQ, 10:08 |
Peyton Holland: "Did they ever care about winning the match?"
Ambra Monroe: "I don't know, they seem just happy to beat the crap out of Jessica and Summer."
Peyton Holland: "This is definitely a message sent to the Golden Era."
Ambra Monroe: "Speaking of the devil..."
Kyle Butler and Neil Newman came rushing down the ramp to rescue their wives. As soon as he saw them, Duke ordered the retreat. Strong words were exchanfed by the two teams, but no physical contact was made. For that they will have to wait until the By Any Means PPV.
Ambra Monroe: "I don't know, they seem just happy to beat the crap out of Jessica and Summer."
Peyton Holland: "This is definitely a message sent to the Golden Era."
Ambra Monroe: "Speaking of the devil..."
Kyle Butler and Neil Newman came rushing down the ramp to rescue their wives. As soon as he saw them, Duke ordered the retreat. Strong words were exchanfed by the two teams, but no physical contact was made. For that they will have to wait until the By Any Means PPV.
We are now greeted with a sight that is becoming more familiar to the Millennium audience; an abandoned locker room other than one man sitting all by himself in there. It is one of the participants in the all important semi final steel cage match coming up in Seth Iser. He’s dressed in his wrestling attire with his left hand still casted as it has been ailing him for a while but more critically he literally has a bandaged headband to protect a particular wound that was put on him by BROOKFORD last week and when you consider his other stop, it obviously has not healed.
Seth Iser:
Right now...I’m not going to mince words: I feel like hell.
He leans back on that steel chair and his face is more reflective rather than showcasing some of the burning intensity you’d expect from him.
Seth Iser:
BROOKFORD and I beat the living hell out of one another last week for nearly half an hour. We fought, we bled, we wounded, we gouged...all because the fact of the matter is the two of us are more than willing to pay the ultimate price to get to where we need to be. And we were literally going to do whatever it took to get by the other and worry about the consequences later. Because that’s what professional wrestling is at the end of the day: you need to beat that other man. You need to get paid. You need...to be the one getting your hand raised.
And he pauses for a moment as he grits his teeth moving his neck, a slight pinch nerve in the neck was also part of his laundry list of things agitating him but that’s probably the most healed of his elements.
Seth Iser:
And it’s disrespectful...to the other person to not give the other person everything in your arsenal when the stakes are that high. BROOKFORD gets it better than anybody honestly. It’s why I think so damn highly of the man. He doesn’t feel good about losing but he and I understand one another even better: it’s worth it. And I know damn well he’s going to go even deeper in the tricks because...I brought it out of him. A fight like that is the lifeblood of professional wrestling. Not whatever flip off of a damn ladder or groups of people launching arbitrary assaults or whining like a petty little bitch on social media...it’s the grit, the will to survive, and doing ANYTHING in your power to beat the other man until YOUR hand is raised. THAT is what we call PROFESSIONAL WRESTLING!
He couldn’t help himself, he had to shout that last sentence as he’s seething in frustration at what wrestling is but he’s in control, not rocking back and forth. He’s almost like a statue honestly and his eyes have that predatory look to them.
Seth Iser:
But after I was a bloodied mess getting stitched up...and the doctor was starting to put in the fifteen stitches...they were replaying the show highlights. My attention was fully on that rather than the pain in my hand or head at the moment. Not because I’m some legendary badass but rather...I heard something said that resonated with me a little. It maybe wasn’t so much what he said...but how he said it. Oh I heard it loud and clear Keelan Jayce.
Seth’s eyes narrow slightly as his focus is in full.
Seth Iser:
When you spoke about Gavin...spoke at great lengths about what happened that dissolved the friendship as people grow apart...something that happens quite often in our sport, you were channeling into some emotion. A little anger, even. You beat Gavin a couple weeks prior when I was in the crowd making notes; but it seems like that bit of anger and emotion wasn’t exactly the best thing for you the following week. But Keelan...let me get this straight…
A coldness is coming over Iser as he shakes his head. He’s almost sounding like a disappointed teacher. He finally stands from his chair, his arms crossed in a menacing manner for a moment as he’s shaking his head.
Seth Iser:
You got mad that someone in a no disqualification match was trying to exploit your weakness to try to advance his career knowing damn well it’s one of the biggest events this company puts on all year. You had a little piss and moan about it last week about it as well...got angry and well...we saw what happened. You know what I have to say about all that?
He’s as cold as the other side of the pillow as he asks that question.
Seth Iser:
Get over it.
An agitated tone as he spits that line.
Seth Iser:
This is professional wrestling...and you know in a match where there are no rules that it creates a giant bullseye on you at all times. And now you’re in a steel cage with someone who has been in that environment quite often. Hell...it’s my favorite match type for a reason...it’s the ultimate showdown of gladiators and we can’t hide anything from anybody; strengths and weaknesses alike. And I’m going to make sure you’re willing to pay the ultimate price tonight…
There isn’t any enjoyment in what he says but it’s business and to the point.
Seth Iser:
I’m going to unleash a stream of blood that would’ve made the War of the Roses vomit all over the goddamn battlefield from your head using that cage. I’m going to let the steel bars lacerate your skin and when you feel yourself shutting down, you have to ask yourself if you’re willing to pay the ultimate price to get to Neal on Pay Per View! Do you have that in you? You know damn well I do. I’ve paid that price for years, and will continue to until I have nothing left to give in that sport…
And then there’s a shake of the head yet again as Seth mutters coldly.
Seth Iser:
For all your talent, I don’t think you got that in you. Not with how you whined and bitched about someone taking that road because they were a friend at one point. And that’s the difference between you and me. That’s what ultimately is the difference maker between someone who is a great talent versus someone who is the lifeblood of professional wrestling. Hell...I AM professional wrestling. The greatest mind in the industry today. And it’s going to be a gory reminder of what that entails tonight when I beat you into a bloody pulp and advance. But it isn’t out of a place of malice...rather...from a desire to do everything in my power to get my hand raised in victory because it is absolutely disrespectful to you, to Melissa, and to BROOKFORD if I DIDN’T do that. That is the oath of a pro wrestler. We are GLADIATORS! Warriors! And it's all a giant game of survival at the end of the day at this level with these stakes...and what wouldn't I do to get World Title number 3?
And with one last sneer he looks at the camera.
Seth Iser:
And if you don’t try to match that same want to, intensity, and desire in some form or fashion...you’re going to be regretting this by laying in the goddamn hospital wondering what might have been.
He then lumbers off, the adrenaline starting to course through him that’s numbing some of his pain as he is ready to go to war inside a steel cage.
Battle For The Briefcase Match
Semi-Final: Cage Match
Keelan Jayce VS Seth IserSemi-Final: Cage Match
Peyton Holland: "It's time for the main event, time to find out who will face Neal Durden in the Battle For The Briefcase final at By Any Means." Ambra Monroe: "Keelan Jayce has been the wildcard in this tournament, nobody really expected to see him making it so far." Peyton Holland: "Not only the Australian made it to the semi-final, but he also has a huge opportunity to make it to the ppv main event, considering that the grizzled veteran is far from his best shape" Ambra Monroe: "One week ago he went through one of the toughest matches in his career against BROOKFORD, and then on Sunday he fought in Australia for IYHWF. Now, that's not easy feat for a young wrestler, and Seth is 39 now." Seth was obviously aware of this (he’s Wrestling’s Greatest Mind after all) and he started the match on defense, saving energy for what will possibly be another long and gruesome battle. Jayce on the other hand came out all guns ablazing, as he always does. In his long career Seth had never met someone like the Australian and no matter how much time he, no doubt, spent studying the tapes of his previous matches here in MWE, you can never quite prepare for his tricking style. His kicks were coming from impossible angles and always hit the mark with surgical precision. His unpredictability combined with Seth’s poor condition put Iser through a rough couple of minutes, with Jayce getting the first near fall with an enziguri off a cartwheel. Peyton Holland: “It looks like it’s going to be a long night for Seth…” Ambra Monroe: “It wasn’t going to be easy either way, but everything Seth has gone through in the past week is inevitably going to be a factor in this match, as it becomes clear from the very first minutes.” One could think that the cage could limit the acrobatic style of Keelan Jayce, limiting his movements and taking part of his repertoire, but KJ was able to use the structure to his favor when Seth, finally catching a break, whipped him against the steel wall. Keelan stepped onto it and flipped backwards over a surprised Iser, landing behind him and, with a dropkick to the back, sent him face first against the cage. The first blood was drawn a few moments later, after Keelan drove Seth’s head against the wall a couple more times. Ambra Monroe: “The old wound opened up again, and Seth is, once again, bleeding.” Peyton Holland: “Seeing Seth busted open is becoming a familiar sight, but then again, it never stopped him…” The tides completely turned when the grizzled veteran caught Jayce with a big clothesline that turned the Aussie inside out. Seth quickly pulled him back to his feet and, grabbing him by the back of his head, lead him close to the cage and drove his head against it. Keelan planted his foot on the wall and blocked the attempt, swinging his elbow back on Seth’s face. He then connected a pele kick to knock the big man down, and quickly started to climb, in an attempt to leave the cage early. Seth recovered quickly and, with his 6’5’’ of height easily grabbed Keelan’s foot and dragged him all the way down to the waiting canvas. The impact against the mat was hard, but nothing compared to the one against the unforgiving cage when Iser launched him against it. Ambra Monroe: “Blood for blood, and now Seth is trying to return the courtesy. And with Keelan’s condition this could be the turning point of the match.” Peyton Holland: “You may not like what Seth is doing, but mercy is a luxury not many are willing to afford, especially with such high stakes.” Luckily for Keelan it was just a superficial cut, the blood loss wasn’t too abundant, and he was able, although weakened and way more cautious than he was before, to continue the match. Seth was in control now, relying on his arsenal of throws to wear down the Australian. The momentum of the match had completely shifted, Jayce was now in great difficulty. especially after an overhead belly to belly suplex sent him crashing against the cage, falling hard on his shoulder. One more target for Seth to pick apart with an array of submissions, useful for him as well to catch a breath and pace himself better as the match had now surpassed the ten minutes mark. Jayce tried to wrestle his way out of the shoulder lock, rolling and flipping all around until he eventually managed to throw Seth to the mat with an armdrag. Peyton Holland: “And here comes that tricking style again.” Ambra Monroe: “Notice how much slower his movements are, he knows now that even the slightest mistake could cost him big time.” But even though he seemed to be pulling the break, Keelan was moving at a faster pace than Iser, one the veteran couldn’t match. He eventually took Seth off his feet with a step up hurricanrana, following with a swinging neckbreaker as the West Virginia born pulled himself up to his feet. And again those kicks, just as dangerous even without the acrobatics that usually preceded them. Shoot kicks to the chest to prevent Iser from getting up followed by one to the side of the head that knocked down the big man. Ambra Monroe: “We know what’s coming next..:” The Aussie jumped with both feet on Seth’s chest, and from there performed a standing moonsault, landing into a cover for another near fall. Once again Keelan pushed on the gas, picking up the pace of the match and planting Seth with a tornado ddt. His daredevil nature lead him to take an unnecessary risk, missing the double rotation moonsault and crashing on the canvas. Seth wasted no time and picked him up to connect his Icebreaker and instead of going for the cover, he launched Jayce had first onto the cage. Peyton Holland: “I guess Seth has had enough...” Iser went into the corner and ripped the protective turnbuckle, exposing the metal underneath it. He then lifted Keelan over his shoulder and dropped him head first onto it. This time the cut was deeper, blood began pouring down KJ’s face, causing some apprehension on the medical staff outside the cage, ready to intervene in case of need. But Keelan was slowly picking himself up while Seth was slowly heading to the cage door, demanding for it to be open. Keelan sprinted and hit him with a jumping knee to the back of the head. Seth turned around, but before he could do anything, Keelan rocked him with another jumping knee, using what little energy he had left to plant Seth with the XXXX (cradle hammerlock ddt). Ambra Monroe: “UNBELIEVABLE!” Peyton Holland: “That was an incredible feat from Keelan but the question is, can he capitalize?” Both men were down, none of them moving at all. Jayce was the first to show some signs of life, crawling to the near exit rather than going for the cover. The door opened, Seth was finally starting to stir and noticed that his opponent was almost leaving the cage. He desperately tried to reach him, but the ddt had caused his wound to open up again and the blood loss caused him to stagger. Keelan almost dragged himself out of the cage, but the door suddenly closed on his head, courtesy of Gavin Grimes. He laughed at the sight of his former friend now laying motionless, so close and yet so far from qualifying to the final. And then, just like he appeared, he left. Once again the door opened, and a shaky Seth Iser left the cage. Paramedics quickly entered to provide assistance to Keelan Jayce. WINNER: Seth Iser BY: Cage Escape, 18:24 |
Peyton Holland:
This doesn't look good...
Ambra Monroe:
Keelan knew the risks entering this match, but seeing him motionless like this is concerning to say the least.
Peyton Holland:
You're right, he did know he was putting his well being on the line, but he definitely wasn't ready for another sneak attack from Grimes.
Ambra Monroe:
And to think thesse two were the closest of friends..
Peyton Holland:
Anyway, Seth Iser will face Neal Durden at By Any Means in a Three Stages Of Hell match. The winner? Will get the briefcase and the power that comes with it.
Ambra Monroe:
Save the dates, ladies and gentlemen. June 30th, July 1st. See you there.
This doesn't look good...
Ambra Monroe:
Keelan knew the risks entering this match, but seeing him motionless like this is concerning to say the least.
Peyton Holland:
You're right, he did know he was putting his well being on the line, but he definitely wasn't ready for another sneak attack from Grimes.
Ambra Monroe:
And to think thesse two were the closest of friends..
Peyton Holland:
Anyway, Seth Iser will face Neal Durden at By Any Means in a Three Stages Of Hell match. The winner? Will get the briefcase and the power that comes with it.
Ambra Monroe:
Save the dates, ladies and gentlemen. June 30th, July 1st. See you there.