Post by gvb on Jul 21, 2020 15:03:10 GMT -6
MWE Presents: By Any Means (night 1)
Live from Enterprise Arena in Chicago, IL
Tuesday, June 30th, 2020
We see Alex Andrews finishing taping up her writing, getting ready for her first pay per view match. She uses her teeth to rip the tape, and keeps going with it. She noticed the camera and sorta laughs to herself.
Alex Andrews:
You know, I didn't want it to come to this. I didn't want to end up across the ring from Morgan, but that's how things go sometimes. Especially after she cost me that match against Christina Lopez-Zdunich. I had it won, if it wasn't for her distraction. And it got me thinking...why would Morgan do such a thing? What did I do to her?
Alex closes her eyes and lets out a breath.
Alex Andrews:
Then it hit me. She took offense to that blind tag on our match against Warblade 42. Things went down hill after that. What can I say? Apologizing won't help matters any. And I can't really make excuses for it. I got antsy, I'm new and I'll make mistakes, sue me. And I get it, it wasn't the best way to make a first impression to a new crowd. But guess what? Stuff happens, you'll get another chance, just like me.
Alex stands up and begins rolling her shoulders, getting herself loose.
Alex Andrews:
So now is the time to make a point, to reintroduce myself and show them, while I might be a bit green, I'm still plenty capable. Just because you have the experience edge in me, Morgan, doesn't mean you'll roll right over me. I've been trained by some of the best and you'll see that overlooking me will be the biggest mistake. I'm sure you think you've got this already in the bag, but you couldn't be more wrong. Now let's go out there and show them just how limitless I am.
Alex nods to herself and puts her game face on as she walks off down the corridor.
The beautiful and filthy rich Summer Collins, the somewhat more arrogant member of Fabulous, steps into view from stage left. Collins is dressed in her wrestling attire and has a cocky smirk etched across her lovely features. She stares into the camera and winks playfully.
Summer Collins:
Good evening, everyone. Summer Collins here! And I suppose that tonight I should throw around the typical catchphrases...absolutely Fabulous...in your dreams...and on and on...I supposed I could do that but tonight isn’t about any of that.
Her face grows more stoic and intense.
Summer Collins:
Jess and I came to MWE for a reason and that is to prove ourselves as the absolute best tag team in professional wrestling. We plan to do this by taking on the toughest of challengers across multiple promotions. We want challengers who want it just as badly as we do. We want challengers who want to face us because they have the same motivation we do, not because of who we happen to be married to. But APE...tonight they get to challenge for the MWE World Tag Team Championship, by the by...Jessica and I fought them recently and we gained a victory over them, but by disqualification because they only cared about sending a message to Neil and Kyle, the reigning champions and our husbands.
Just then “The Archangel” Jessica Lasiewicz steps into view from stage right. She is also dressed in her wrestling gear and is wearing a hooded jacket.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
We have already beaten the best that MWE has to offer but as of yet to win the championship gold. We have come close to grabbing MWE’s brass ring only to be denied. Now a pair of thugs who got disqualified get a title shot while Summer and I are supposed to be content with just being booked?
The Archangel throws the hood off of her head and we can now see the intensity etched across her face.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
We are NOT content with anything but the best! Valkyrie, Niko, tonight you’re unfortunate enough to be chosen to face off against a pair of pissed off bitches! Ladies, when Summer and I are pissed, when we are focused and as intense as we are right now, we are damn near unstoppable! Tonight no one sends a message at our expense. Instead it will be Fabulous sending the message at the expense of Warblade 42. And that message is going to be painfully clear...no one is better than Fabulous. Give us what we want.
Summer Collins:
And what is it that we want, you ask? I’ll make it simple. Jess and I are issuing a challenge to the winner of the MWE World Tag Team Championship match tonight. It doesn’t really matter whether it’s APE or Golden Era. We’ll kick our husband’s asses if we have to, it’s all good, because we’re more determined than ever to prove that we are the absolute best team in the world. Period. End of discussion.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
And THAT...that is absolutely Fabulous…
Backstage Bree Smith walks into the arena with no makeup on, a slightly red face. Her hair is tied up in a ponytail with a sweatband at the top of her forehead. She's got a red t-shirt on and black shorts on. To her left is West Long, the contender for that Lockdown strap later on tonight. Long, basketball shorts, no shirt and carrying the ball under his arm. To Bree's right is an old friend, Vance, wearing a black tank with the BreeTee logo on it (showing some support). Red shorts on, contrasting Bree's getup.
Bree:
Good hustle out there, Dudes.
Bree says and heads over to the table for three bottles of smart waters. She chucks them behind her, landing them perfectly in West and Vance's hands. She then unscrews her bottle and chugs half of it.
Bree:
Now I wish my match was tonight.
West Long:
I get that. I feel pretty pumped, ready to take that lockdown strap from Bobbi tonight, yeah.
One more shot, the tie-breaker if you caught the first one.
West taps Vance's shoulder, chins up to him, and takes a drink from his bottle. Vance groans while drinking, telling West he did. Once that water was down, he speaks up.
Vance:
Matter of fact I did. The phoenix cage name lured me in.
Bree:
Vance never could resist clickbait back when we were a thing….actually, Chris does too. I guess I have a type.
Bree's cheek raises up, when she realizes that but it's nothing really. She's immediately drawn to the plate of oreos covered by some wrap. She removes it and grabs herself one. Vance strolls up to take it off her and eats it.
Bree:
Do you have a death wish?
Bree's face is absolutely stunned that an oreo was stolen from her.
West Long:
You don't take her oreos.
The fact he and Vance were either side of Bree made him crack a smile, reaching around Bree for another bottle of water for later.
West Long:
But, yeah, good luck in your bout tomorrow, 'Zilla.
As Bree had introduced herself as BreeZilla to West, and that's what he called her in the gym workouts.
Bree:
Teegs and I are going to crush it tomorrow. Good luck to you too, Dude, on your Lockdown Title match.
The Warwolf's lips curl to something of a smile. He tosses the bottle up he's holding and catches it topside.
West Long:
Thanks. Do Millennium alter the belts Since my opponent's not exactly large like I am, yeah.
Otherwise I'll have to carry that strap creatively.
Bree:
I like the confidence, Dude. Forward thinking and everything. I'm not exactly sure, since I'm nowhere near your height.
Bree then sizes herself up to see where she comes up to on West. She's the shortest of the three, but that doesn't impact her too much.
Bree:
But have fun, I need to go grab a shower and then watch my bro have his title match.
Vance:
Cool. I'll grab a shower too, you wanna show me the men's locker room, I don't trust Bree to show me. I'll end up coming out in front of half the women's locker room.
Bree:
Hey! I wouldn't do that!
Bree says over-offended. West points with a crank of his head to where they are.
West Long:
I'll show you where they are, yeah. Bree, tell your brother good luck tonight in case I don't see him.
Vance walks over with West, as Bree nods and gives him a thumbs up.
Bree:
Will do, Dude.
As Vance and West strike up a conversation, Bree casually picks up the whole plate of oreos to take with her since she needs a show snack.
West Long:
But, yeah, good luck in your bout tomorrow, 'Zilla.
Singles Match
Alex Andrews VS Morgan MaliceThe careers of these two women seemed to be entwined. Having joined MWE at the same time, they were placed in a tag match by Vincent Moretti in their debut match. A match that saw them coming up short after an excess of zeal from the rookie who, in an attempt to prove her worth, made a mistake that allowed Warblade 42 to pick up the win. Morgan didn't forgive her and costed her the match the following week, leading to this confrontation between the two, At first it was all Morgan, the experience and strength advantage allowed her to easily control the first minutes of the match, shoving Alex in the corner and pummeling her with hard elbows and knee strikes. With a belly-to-belly suplex she threw Andrews in the middle of the ring, sliding in for a cocky cover attempt that only gave her a two count. That cockiness, the firm belief that she was above her opponent costed Malice the control over her opponent, who took advantage of the staid pace the veteran imposed to slip out of one of the complicated submissions Morgan applied to show off her technical prowess and took the australian down with an armdrag. The rookie wanted to test herself and challenged the opponent to her own game, applying a texas cloverleaf. Or at least she tried to, but her submission was immediately broken up by Morgan who quickly transitioned into a STF. Alex dragged herself to the near ropes and saved herself once again. Malice kept the opponent grounded, switching from one submission to the next until she deadlifted Andrews for a bridging german suplex. The rookie kicked out in two, still having some difficulties finding her footing in the match. For a few more minutes Morgan stayed in control, obtaining another near fall with an high speed released powerbomb. As the match drew to a conclusion, Alex finally began to show her skills, finally getting over that stage fright that blocked her in the first half of the match. Catching the opponent with an ace crusher out of nowhere, Andrews then took a dash at the ropes and jumped on the opponent with a running senton, picking up her first near fall of the match. More followed as slowly but steadily the rookie started imposing herself, coming as close to three as possible with a backdrop driver. The scream of joy for her first win died in her throat, but celebrations were only postponed a couple of minutes, until Alex hit the Brain Death, her patented step up axe kick. WINNER: Alex Andrews BY: Pinfall (Brain Death), 8:41 |
Amy Maynard: "And we kick off the PPV with an upset! The rookie just pinned the veteran!"
Sir Figgles: "The worst mistake you can make when facing a young and hungry competitor is to think that experience alone will grant you the win, and take them lightly."
Amy Maynard: "That's exactly what happened tonight. Congratulations to Alex, this is her first win in MWE and it's quite a big one."
Sir Figgles: "The worst mistake you can make when facing a young and hungry competitor is to think that experience alone will grant you the win, and take them lightly."
Amy Maynard: "That's exactly what happened tonight. Congratulations to Alex, this is her first win in MWE and it's quite a big one."
The cameras come into focus and as they do we are treated to a shot of Crystal Zdunich sitting down backstage in front of a huge vanity mirror. She is in a Hollywood chair that has the name Zdunich written in big bold letter. She can’t help but run her hands through her long blue hair as she moves her eyes to that of the camera.
Crystal Zdunich:
Hey everyone this is Christina Zdunich and tonight marks the night where I can really control my destiny and mark my way towards that of a Riot Championship match. To be honest it’s moments like these that I live for. Being a Hollywood Starlet one always is waiting for their huge breakthrough moment such as that. In Hollywood one could always get many retakes until they can get the shot right but that really doesn’t apply to wrestling because the more things don’t go well is the more you tend to get disappointed in yourself. It’s the more things start getting depressing and it’s hard to find your way out of a funk.
Crystal just sighs as she shakes her head.
Crystal Zdunich:
I have been in MWE for a while now and when I got moved over to Riot I thought it would be a change of scenery. I thought it would be the place where my career would be revitalized and so far that hasn’t been the case. I have in my own opinion been more of a welcome mat to others and it gets quite sickening. Sure the other week I might have picked up a win but that’s merely one win in how many matches?!
Crystal shakes her head sighing.
Crystal Zdunich:
There’s no consistency. There’s no stability. It’s just merely winning whenever and creating nothing from it. That’s how my career has been since I have came to Riot but I plan to change that. You see in my entire career I have won over 16 World Championships. That is damn near impressive during a 14 year career. I have given it my all no matter the company or the roster. Whenever I come to a company I have always given nothing short than my very best. Yet that hasn’t really applied to here in Riot. Tonight marks the change because I plan to get back to the top and position myself into getting a top championship for the 17th time. In order to do that I need to win this contenders match and I will pour my everything into it.
Crystal shakes her head with a sigh as she continues to speak.
Crystal Zdunich:
I live and breathe for this business and I know there are so many different people in this match who are ready and willing to try to make it to the main event and to be in the prime time spot. That has always been my ideal. I always want to be the main attraction and be in the constant spotlight. Yet something always comes in the way of me getting to that spot. I am not going to let anything stop me from claiming my destiny as being the future challenger for the title. I know things really didn’t go my way when I was pushing towards that of the Junior Heavyweight Championship but that’s all in the past now. The only thing my mind is focused on is moving my way towards that of the Riot Championship. You will see how I get back into being in the spotlight and of course the Main event… Lights, Camera, Action it’s showtime… Let’s go make a movie shall we?!
With that Crystal can’t help but grin as we leave on this image.
“The Archangel” Jessica Lasiewicz looks deep in thought as she stands in her dressing room, staring stoically at her appearance in a full length mirror. She is dressed in her ring attire, ready to compete. The silence is deafening as Jessica is here alone, her tag team partner Summer Collins is nowhere to be found. But that silence ends rather abruptly when the dressing room door swings wildly open and her half-sister, the violent and somewhat crazed Kimberly Williams comes bounding into the room with arms outstretched. The reigning HKW Bloodlust Champion embraces Jessica in a tight hug.
Kimberly Williams:
Hi, sis!
Kimberly kisses her on the cheek and Jessica then roughly shoves her away.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
Not now, Kim…
Kimberly Williams:
What’s wrong, Jess? Are ya still pissed about how the monkey men beat you and Summer up? I mean, if you are I got two solutions for your problem.
Kimberly reaches into her pockets and produces a staple gun and a knife. She grins wickedly.
Kimberly Williams:
Stabby, stabby? Or staple, staple?
The Archangel rolls her eyes.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
If by “monkey men” you mean APE, then it’s not necessary, Kim.
Kimberly Williams:
Awwww, you’re no fun!
Kimberly tosses the two weapons to the side.
Kimberly Williams:
Are you upset that I wasn’t there to help you out? I mean, I would have been there to help you but I wasn’t there that night. But I am here tonight so if you need me, just say the word. Family has to stick together.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
It’s ok, we’re good. But I want you to stay out of it tonight, ok?
Kimberly Williams:
You sure?
Jessica Lasiewicz:
Yes. Summer and I want to win this one on our own. You focus on tomorrow night and winning the Junior Heavyweight Championship.
The Woman Scorned playfully salutes.
Kimberly Williams:
Sir, yes sir!
Tag Team Match
Fabulous VS Warblade 42
The team of Summer Collins and Jessica Lasiewicz entered this match with an obvious chip on their shoulders. They weren’t happy with how (little) they were booked in this last couple of months, feeling like they have been forgotten after their missed chance at the gold back at Dark Web II. This didn’t bode well for Warblade 42, especially for Valkyrie who started the match against a furious and overly aggressive Lasiewicz, The Archangel wasn’t taking any chance, coming out all guns ablazing and taking on the bigger opponent with absolutely no fear or concerns of sorts. This took the Dane by surprise, Jessica’s kicks slowly pushing her in the Fabulous corner where, after a tag, she got double teamed by the two women, with a kick to chest/kick to the back combination after Lasiewicz seated her on the canvas with a snapmare. Summer made the first cover but Vee kicked out in one. Focused and determined, Fabulous was working in perfect sync on the Warmaiden Of Roskilde, leaving her no chance to reach her corner. Never count Valkyrie out too soon though, and never underestimate her power either. The Big Dane Bitch countered a suplex attempt by the two opponents, lifting them both and dropping her to the mat, making it look almost effortless. Niko didn’t take long to impose herself thanks to her unparalleled striking ability, immediately having Summer on the ropes. Collins caught her break momentarily when she blocked Niko’s leg and hit a capture suplex, trying to use this opening to reach Jessica in the corner. Yua recovered quickly and hit Summer with a jumping knee to the back of the head, knocking her down. As she was falling to the mat, Collins managed to stretch out her hand and make the tag to Jessica who leaped over the ropes and ran back inside the ring. Niko caught her with a deep armdrag and immediately dashed at the ropes, driving both knees to the Archangel face and making a quick cover, broken up by Summer who rushed back inside the ring. Showing off her strength, Niko then lifted Jessica and walked into her corner where Valkyrie took the tag and entered the ring positioning herself in front of her partner who passed over Lasiewicz- Vee held her upside down a little longer before eventually dropping her down with the Switchover Suplex. Once again the Archangel kicked out. The match picked up intensity, quick tags from both sides marked time keeping the action back and forth with no team really prevailing over the other. If Fabulous almost got the job done with the Golden Kiss Of Death, Warblade 42, namely Niko, came this close from putting Summer away with the Meteor Strike, calling Jessica to a dramatic last second save. Yua kept the pressure on Collins, blocking two attempts at reaching her partner and getting another near fall with a reverse ddt. In a phase of full dominance by the Blade Maiden Of Tokyo, the cutter Summer hit out of nowhere came totally unexpected, In came Jessica after the tag, immediately removing Valkyrie from the equation with a running yakuza kick to knock her off the apron. Turning around, she caught Niko with the Our Lady Peace and made yet another cover, interrupted by Vee pulling her leg and dragging her out of the ring. The two brawled shortly on the outside, until Summer took the Dane down with a running senton from the apron. Lasiweicz jumped back inside the ring with a springboard crossbody, but Niko rolled through avoiding the pin and showing surprising strength to lift the Archangel over her shoulders in a fireman’s carry position into a knee strike, knocking Jessica down. Or so she thought… When she got close to make the cover, Lasiewicz surprised her with an inside cradle, scoring the decisive pinfall. WINNER: Fabulous BY: Pinfall (Inside Cradle), 16:52 |
Peyton Holland: "We were all expecting a great match between these two teams and, my God!, did they deliver!"
Ambra Monroe: "Wonderful back and forth action, both Fabulous and Warblade 42 left everything they had in this ring and only Jessica's talent and quickness steered it in Fabulous' direction."
Peyton Holland: "Another win in the books for Lasiewicz and Collins. They've been one of the most consistent teams since joining, do you believe they should be kept in consideration for another shot at the titles currently held by their husbands?"
Ambra Monroe: "Absolutely. It would be interesting match-up for sure, especially with no other teams involved."
Ambra Monroe: "Wonderful back and forth action, both Fabulous and Warblade 42 left everything they had in this ring and only Jessica's talent and quickness steered it in Fabulous' direction."
Peyton Holland: "Another win in the books for Lasiewicz and Collins. They've been one of the most consistent teams since joining, do you believe they should be kept in consideration for another shot at the titles currently held by their husbands?"
Ambra Monroe: "Absolutely. It would be interesting match-up for sure, especially with no other teams involved."
Wearing his grey hoody, black shorts, wrestling boots, elbow pads and MMA gloves is Dean Smith furiously hitting away at a punching bag. Dean's got the last match in his mind, his first appearance for the non-riot brand of Millennium.
Dean Smith:
So that's how I'd tackle Wilkow. He's big, but you know what they say…
Dean takes a bottle of water from a feminine hand, guzzling down about a fifth of it and sighs.
Dean Smith:
The harder they fall.
The hand that passed Dean a drink leads to a tanned, toned, feminine arm. It hides in a royal blue cap sleeve, which is a part of a button up, royal blue blouse. This woman shares the blond hair that plenty of Dean's sisters have, but this blond woman in particular is a friend of the family. Her lips curl upwards to smile at Dean.
Clover Smith:
I'm thirsty too, Violet.
Dean's younger sister's forehead comes in, forcing the camera to zoom out and confirm it is Violet. The baby girl of the Smith clan shares Violet's look, with a button up blouse, a long black skirt, freshly painted white nails, yet Clover made it her own. Clo has her hair in a slight ponytail, flat shoes, and a Dean Smith bracelet on her wrist.
Violet:
Here you are.
She bends down slightly at the waist and knee to hand Clover a bottle. Much like her brother, Clover gulps down a fifth.
Violet:
So you were saying earlier you hadn't faced anyone in this match?
Dean Smith:
Well, Brien, yes. This match though, that history doesn't matter too much. It's a chaotic match for the biggest prize in MWE Riot.
Clover Smith:
The big Riot championship!
Dean and Violet share a chuckle as Clover gets a bit overzealous on behalf of her brother.
Dean Smith:
Well a shot at it at least. Not sure who that'll be after the Best of Five. But, Ladies, I have proven in the past to be quite a dominant champ on the Riot Brand.
Violet:
Lola was telling me about that era. You miss being on top, don't you?
Dean Smith:
A little bit. Ok, a lot. It's been a while since I've held gold.
Clover's bracelet catches his eye, featuring his nickname and how long he held the Invictus title.
Dean Smith:
Feels a little different when you've spent 270 days plus with gold on your shoulder to be without it.
He admits with a passive shrug.
Violet:
I can only imagine. Still, you've been putting in the work left, right and center for this one. I've seen you pop that knee of yours from all directions. I'd go as far to say you're a threat to all six.
Dean Smith:
Five, Vi.
Violet:
I'm counting the champion too. Whoever they end up being.
Dean's eyebrow pops up a little, nodding and agrees.
Clover Smith:
Just pretend those five guys are Rodney Summers. Big Bro Dean.
Clover takes another swig as Dean goes for another strike, but stops when Clo recounts a little incident.
Clover Smith:
He was this mean boy who threw stuff at Honey and ran away. One day, he hit her with something bad, and my big bro went berserk.
Clover was too young to see it herself, so it's clear she's recounting a story she's heard. Violet's both intrigued yet worried about how much Clover knew of this story.
Clover Smith:
You got him good, and he never bothered Honey, or anybody again.
Violet lets out a sigh of relief, while Dean remembers that incident quite well.
Dean Smith:
I don't think anyone in this match has done anything that bad, Clo. But I'll still bring some of that fire to it, if I dish it out evenly to all five, they'll still be able to continue working.
Violet:
Clo. Why don't we leave your brother to get ready, and we can go.
Out of a seafoam topped tupperware tub, Violet plucks a brownie for Clover. Specially cut into stars and Clover happily takes one.
Clover:
Here you go, Big Bo.
The sweet gesture by Clover makes Violet wince. It's just too cute, she finds everything she's seeing quite hard to handle. Dean bends down to take it and gets a hug from Clover, that makes Violet clutch her chest.
Clover:
That's just for extra luck
She closes her eyes and then backs away, turning back to the brownies where she gets another from Violet.
Clover:
We can work on my letter to Skylar for an exclusive interview. All my friends are doing traditional essays, so I'm going to try do a video one, to set myself apart from the crowd like all good Smiths do.
Clover says with Violet babysitting her, making plans which makes Dean chuckle again, although get inspired by it. The punching bag he's leaning on gets a little jab, as Dean steps back, and gives it a solid, loud kick. The camera feed goes black the second the kick lands with the impact of the kick slowly fading out.
Six Way Match
#1 Contender for the Riot Championship
Jenni Anderson VS Brien Storm VS Andrew Wilkow #1 Contender for the Riot Championship
VS Christina Lopez-Zdunich VS Liv Mercer VS Dean Smith
This was an hectic match from top to bottom, six competitors with different styles fighting in a one fall to a finish match for the right to challenge whoever between Henri Black and Glory Braddock would walk out of By Any Means with the title around their waist. All eyes were on Jenni Anderson, the favorite in this match and the Queenpin didn't disappoint, looking in great shape in the opening minutes. With some swift kicks she pushed Christina against the ropes and eventually took her out with a clothesline. Liv and Storm were trading holds and despite the former Riot champion being more well versed in the technical aspects of the discipline, the Favorite Worst Nightmare escaped the side headlock with some well placed elbows to the ribs, switching positions to apply the same hold on Mercer, planting her on the face with a headlock driver. Dean was the only one in this match, and one of the few in the entire roster, who could hold his ground against Wilkow in a test of strength but eventually the Sandstorm fueled behemoth had the upper hand, throwing the former Invictus champion out of the ring. Anderson came charging at him and was caught by a Tilt-a-whirl backbreaker, leaving Drew and Brien as the only two standing inside the ring. Before Storm could do anything, Wilkow beheaded him with the LARIAAAAAAAAT! The subsequent cover attempt was interrupted by Liv Mercer getting back inside the ring as breaking it up. Identifying Hearst's bodyguard as the biggest threat, the other five wrestler ganged up on him. Liv and Christina worn him down with fast kicks but it was Dean's running big boot that dropped the big man out of the ring. Smith followed suit as Mercer and Lopez immediately broke the alliance and tossed him over the top rope, before turning on one another and trading shots. As Liv missed the roundhouse, Christina grabbed her legs and swept her off her feet, sending her against the turnbuckle with a catapult and quickly rolling her up with a schoolboy. It was Brien Storm who broke up the pin. The Captain then picked up Christina and whipped her in the opposite corner, focusing on Liv instead. With a fireman's carry drop onto his knee Storm came really close to the win as Liv saved herself with a last second kick out. He then picked her up and lifted her over his shoulders for the Unforecasted Storm, but Liv slipped away and pushed Brien against Jenni who was only now getting back inside the ring, knocking her off the apron once again. Mercer quickly turned around and charged at Christina hitting her with a jumping knee to the face. She was going to deliver one to Brien as well but as she was charging at him Dean cut her off with a spear. Every time Andrew Wilkow entered the ring he left a trail of destruction on his path. A big boot leveled Brien Storm, when Christina charged in he easily scooped her off her feet and powerslammed her on top of the Favorite Worst Nightmare. At first he didn’t realize this could be considered a pinning predicament and that the referee had started to count. As soon as the realization kicked in he cursed at the multi time champion who seemed completely unaware of what was going on, including the fact that Wilkow lifted her over his head in a gorilla press position and threw her out of the ring. Jenni Anderson blindsided the big man with a jumping forearm strike to the back of the head that barely affected Drew, who turned around with a spinning backfist to send the Queenpin flat on her back. Dean Smith jumped off the apron and hit him with his Mean Dean flying knee strike. Wilkow fell on one knee, rocked after the vicious blow to the temple. Mercer tried to capitalize with a front missile dropkick followed by a quick pinning predicament. Dean was right there and yanked her leg interrupting the cover. The former Invictus champion was wearing Liv down with a series of uppercuts when Jenni rolled the first ever Riot champion over and slammed her face first with her Adora-bomb. She turned around ready to receive Dean Smith but Wilkow was back on his feet, turning her inside out with his LARIAAAAT. The two bigger men went all out in a slugfest, hitting each other with their hardest strikes. Right when Andrew was getting the best of Smith, Lopez dove back inside the ring with a springboard hurricanrana, taking out the Appalachian Mountain Monster. She didn’t even made it completely back to her feet when she got her head taken off by a huge running big boot from Dean, who then immediately locked her in his Choke Out and picked up the prestigious win. WINNER: Dean Smith BY: Submission (Choke Out), 15:34 |
Amy Maynard: "He did it! The longest reigning Invictus Champion in history is now the number one contender for the Riot championship."
Sir Figgles: "Oh I bet Henri and Glory are shaking in their boots right now.."
Amy Maynard: "They better not discounting him, Dean already proved his worth."
Sir Figgles: "The Riot Championship used to be the most prestigious title in the company when Devin Hearst was holding it. Now, we have this meathead as the next contender... Fun times."
Sir Figgles: "Oh I bet Henri and Glory are shaking in their boots right now.."
Amy Maynard: "They better not discounting him, Dean already proved his worth."
Sir Figgles: "The Riot Championship used to be the most prestigious title in the company when Devin Hearst was holding it. Now, we have this meathead as the next contender... Fun times."
The cameras take us backstage to witness the arrival of the Promised at the Enterprise Arena. Freddie Hjalmar looked focused as he walked down the hallway, his ,match against Jacky Rex Daniels later tonight is by far the biggest in his MWE career and he knows what the Rapscallion can bring to the ring. And after all the mind games the Mad King played with him, he would love nothing more than planting his knee in his face. While he walks the empty hallways, Freddie hears footsteps behind him and suddenly turns around, assuming a fighting stance. But nobody is there.
Shaking his head, the Underground Tornado Tag Team champion resumed his walk toward the locker room, only to stop as more steps could be heard following him. And this time there was one of those mannequins with an eye where the head should be. The Canadian born cursed under his breath, calling Jacky with less than flattering epithets. This time with a quicker pace, Hjalmar kept marching down the hallway and again those steps echoed behind him., stopping just as he stopped. He dropped his bag on the floor and spun around, charging and hitting the mannequin, or the perosn he thought was dressed as one, with The Thorne. The eye literally blew up as Freddie hit him with his knee in an explosion of purple goo that invested the Promised. Disgusted and clealry pissed, Freddie took it out on the poor cameraman, pushing him to the floor and ending the segment as the camera hit the ground, cutting to statics.
By Any Means takes us to a pre-tape from earlier on in the day inside the Enterprise Arena in Chicago, Illinois. The Phoenix Cage is lowered from the ceiling and is locked down over the ring. On the roof of the red structure lies the MWE Lockdown Champion, “The Rising Phoenix” Bobbi Jackson. She lays there in the center of the roof of the cage looking up at the ceiling where a camera drone hovers around the top of the venue.
The Lockdown Championship is draped over the blondes body, who's still in her street clothes. A pink tank top and a pair of jean shorts. Her shoes match her top as she gently taps her foot on the top of the structure before she finally begins to speak.
Bobbi Jackson:
So, tonight's the night...
The blonde says with a soft sigh.
Bobbi Jackson:
I will once again step into the Phoenix Cage, my own creation. To go one on one with West Long with my title on the line. For that? I blame myself...
The champ runs her fingers across the center plate of her title, the look in her brown eyes...is one of regret. Bobbi wasn't even trying to hide it at this point.
Bobbi Jackson:
I walked into this structure a while back against Long with the chance to shut his mouth once and for all. To end his stupid streak, to force him to put some respect on my name and all the people who have held this championship before me. I was over confident, I got careless...and I allowed the match to end in a draw...
Bobbi balls up her fist and slams it against the top of the cage in frustration. The echo of the clang can be heard throughout the empty arena. It was almost haunting. The look on the champs face seemed to go from regret to frustration rather quickly.
Bobbi Jackson:
I've had to live with that feeling for FAR too long. Yea, I didn't lose. But it sure as hell felt like I did. That is not the champion I wish to be. Not now...not ever! So tonight, West?
Bobbi sits up slightly as she keeps her head up looking at the ceiling.
Bobbi Jackson:
I hope you realize what you're getting yourself into this evening when the lights of this pay per view are nice and bright. I hope you understand that you are stepping into the Phoenix Cage with the Rising Phoenix of Millennium...and tonight's pay per view title? It's appropriate. Because I'm going to defeat you and erase ANY doubt about my title reign in this company...by any means necessary...
The Phoenix looks down at the Lockdown Championship and holds it tightly against her as she mumbles to herself.
Bobbi Jackson:
You won't survive this Trial by Fire...Not this time!
It is very clear to the viewer that she is not ready to give up her title anytime soon as the feed cuts and By Any Means returns to ringside for the next match of the evening.
Lockdown Championship Match
Bobbi's choice: Phoenix Cage
Bobbi Jackson (c) VS West LongBobbi's choice: Phoenix Cage
Second shot at the Lockdown Championship for the undefeated West Long: The controversial ending of their first bout back at Dark Web II, the double pinfall that left the match without a clear winner left a door open for this rematch that Bobbi started hyper aggressive. taking the Warwolf off guard with a volley of strikes, pushing him back against the wall of the cage. Long quickly reacted pushing her back and charging in with a big clothesline but the champ ducked it bending backwards, When West turned around he ate a roundhouse kick to the head from Jackson that sent him laying flat on his back. She made a first pinfall attempt but Long kicked out with authority in one. The Lockdown champion worked him on the ground, or tried to. West slowly rose back to his feet and broke free from the tight headlock in the most simple and effective way, by lifting Bobbi and falling backwards with a back suplex. Wasting no time he pulled the Rising Phoenix up to her feet and launched her against the cage. As the stunned champion stumbled back toward the middle of the ring, West caught her with a pop-up one handed spinebuster, obtaining a count of two. His physical dominance allowed the Warwolf to keep full control. The commentary team pointed out how we had never seen the champion in such difficulty like she was in this past five minutes where Long came close to the win in several occasions. But his spinning scoop powerslam, the STO backbreaker and even the buckle bomb weren’t enough to keep Bobbi down. Unlike their last encounter, Long wasn’t taking any risk this time, keeping his offence constant and the pace slow, using the Phoenix Cage against the woman who picked it as the stipulation for her defenses. Once again he seemed intentioned to smash her face against the unforgiving steel, but this time Bobbi was able to block it by painting her boot on the wall and swing her elbow backward, catching the Warwolf on the jaw. She quickly turned around and began swinging those punches and kicks, moving quickly as she used the same tactic that worked so well in the opening minutes. Perhaps it was the weariness starting to kick in, or maybe the punishment she suffered throughout the match but her strikes weren’t as powerful as they were earlier, and her movements much slower. Two factors that made it easy for West to block one of her kicks and hit her with a headbutt before lifting her over his shoulders for a fireman’s carry backbreaker. He made the cover, but only got a two out of it. The final part of the match saw the Phoenix rising from her ashes. Right when she seemed to be completely out, she slipped away from West’s Point Blank and dropkicked him against the cage. She followed with a jumping knee strike to the back, shoving Long’s face once again against the wall. Showing a ruthless side, she grinded his face on the steel, stopping only after Long groaned in pain when his forehead got cut and blood started dripping. Jackson kept pushing, delivering a series of shoot kicks that eventually forced West to one knee. With a running ddt she planted him on the mat, quickly rolling him on his back for a near fall. With the momentum of the match now firmly on her side, Bobbi insisted with shots to the head. Kicks, elbows and knee strikes in rapid succession, before dropping him down with another ddt. Once again Long raised his shoulder in time, even trying one last desperate comeback. For a moment it seemed like he could turn the tables once again, Bobbi was able to hit him with a knee to the head, following with a kick to the stomach to double him over and nailing him with The Phoenix Landing to retain her title and end West Long’s undefeated streak. WINNER: Bobbi Jackson (STILL CHAMPION) BY: Pinfall (Phoenix Landing), 13:22 |
Peyton Holland: "No room for doubts tonight, Bobbi Jackson is still our Lockdown Champion."
Ambra Monroe: "Not only she retained the title, but she ended West's streak as well in the process. What a night for the Rising Phoenix."
Peyton Holland: "All streaks must end at some point, there's no shame in losing to an accomplished veteran like Bobbi. And in a match she choose."
Ambra Monroe: "True that. It's a setback, sure, and it'll be interesting to see how he'll bounce back from this. But a loss is not the end of the world."
Ambra Monroe: "Not only she retained the title, but she ended West's streak as well in the process. What a night for the Rising Phoenix."
Peyton Holland: "All streaks must end at some point, there's no shame in losing to an accomplished veteran like Bobbi. And in a match she choose."
Ambra Monroe: "True that. It's a setback, sure, and it'll be interesting to see how he'll bounce back from this. But a loss is not the end of the world."
Marcus Ali Jr (wearing a white v-neck Hanes shirt, faded blue Levi's jeans and black Tactical Under Armour boots) are seen speaking to what seem to be a female fan who had a special backstage access.
Female Fan:
Oh my God, you are the best. I can't believe I am here and you are right in front of me.
The former WBO Junior Heavyweight Champion smiles as he looks at the fan.
Marcus Ali Jr:
I tend to get that a lot everywhere I go.
Female Fan:
I'm not surprised.
Marcus Ali Jr:
So where you want me sign?
The female fan points at the top of her shirt, on the breast area. Marcus smiles pulls out a black marker and signs his autograph. The girl is excited as she pulls out her phone.
Female Fan:
Can I get a picture?
Marcus Ali Jr:
Of course!!!
Marcus looks around and sees a guy standing by wearing a black hoodie, back turned on him
Marcus Ali Jr:
Hey you!!! Get over here and take a picture of me and this beautiful young lady.
Marcus looks at the excited young lady and winks, she could have melted right there and then. He then turns his focus onto the guy wearing.
Marcus Ali Jr:
Hey you, I'm talking to you.
Still no response from the man in the hoodie. An agitated Marcus walks up to the guy.
Marcus Ali Jr:
Hey jackass!!!
As Marcus rested his hand on the man's shoulder, the guy turns around, and delivers a flurry of right hands to Marcus, catching the former WBO Junior Heavyweight Champion off guard.
Meanwhile the female fans screams and run away from the chaotic scene.
Marcus stumbles backwards as the guy goes low, taking Marcus off his feet, mounting him and delivering hard shots to Riot wrestler. Marcus struggles and finally powering the guy off him. Marcus returns to his feet and before he could anything, he is taken down with a superkick. This causes the hoodie over the stranger's head to fall backwards revealing it's Omari Johnson, The Human Superman. As Marcus struggles to return to his feet, a pissed of looking Omari Johnson pulls a steel pipe from his black Levi's jeans back pocket. As Marcus turns around towards Omari, Omari swings the steel pipe to the forehead of Marcus. Just then backstage security, referees and other officials and talent trainers rushes to the scene trying to hold back The Human Superman. As a couple other check on Marcus and helps him back to his feet, blood begins to run down his face from his upper forehead. A slight smirk appears on the face of Omari, who drops the steel pipe and begins to back off. A referee shouts out "We need medic here". Just then Khalil Washington III (wearing a black hoodie, black Levi's Jeans and black Tactical combat boots) and The Masked Angel (sporting his usual SWAT uniform gear) finally shows up, pushing officials away from Marcus.
Khalil Washington III:
What the hell happened?
Marcus Ali Jr:
Omari......
Khalil Washington III:
Damn it!!! Where's Omari?
One of the officials tells Khalil he's gone.
Singles Match
Topher Constantine Junior VS Khali Washington IIIIt was a slug fest in the opening moments, an all out brawl started by KW3 who was exploiting the slight size advantage and the element of surprise to get the best of Topher, though CCJ’s brother held his own for a little while. The member of the Bad Boyz landed a closed fist to the side of the head, earning a warning from the referee. Not a problem as he got exactly what he wanted, stunning Topher enough to connect a belly to belly suplex. Constantine seemed now to have no answer to Khalil’s attacks, the Texas Thug asserting his dominance with an array of suplexes including a rolling deadlift bridging german suplex that earned him a near fall. Topher was already in a bad spot, struggling to catch his breath and find an opening to counter Washington’s onslaught. He did manage to take the Bad Boy to the ground with a dragon screw, holding on his leg and kicking him behind the knee, looking to weaken the limb for his Bro’s Sub. But before he could successfully apply the figure four leglock, Khalil kicked him away preventing him to lock the submission. With his mix of technical throws and direct strikes Khalil dominates the first half of the match, not shying away from using some cheap tricks to keep himself in control. In a few occasions he got close to put Topher down for good, but the younger Constantine showed great resilience and kept kicking out. The turning point of his match was when he connected his Or Whatever (springboard stunner). Khalil got up to his feet and found Topher waiting for him with some knife edge chops, obviously called Bro's Chops. For a few minutes Topher stayed ahead of the opponent thanks to his greater speed and agility. Khalil kicked out in two from the Most Def, the Or Something instead send him flying near the ropes, giving him the chance to catch his breath by rolling outside the ring. Topher leaped toward him with a pescado but that was his mistake as he got caught by Washington and body-slammed on the concrete. After numerous near falls from either competitor the match entered the crucial phase with Topher in the driver’s seat. Washington lived up his Bad Boy name and went for Constantine’s eyes, levelling him with the State Of Emergency discus clothesline. The impact was so strong that literally turned inside out TCJ, causing him to make a complete flip in the air and landing flat on his chest. Topher was able to kick out from the following pinning predicament, which seemed to frustrate Khalil. He started stomping Constantine to the chest and, when he rolled over, to the back of the head, leaving him motionless on the mat. Washington tried another deadlift german suplex but this time Toph slipped away and landed on his feet, taking KW down with a rear mat slam. Next he hit the So Like (legdrop) which almost put down Khalil for good. Tophster was on fire now, unleashing a fury of fists to the opponent, stunning him for the American Style Pile Driver v2 (small package driver) for the win. WINNER: Topher Constantine Junior BY: Pinfall (American Style Pile Driver v2), 10:11 |
Sir Figgles: "I can't believe CCJ's dork brother beat my man KW3!"
Amy Maynard: "And unlike his brother, he didn't need any help to win a match."
Sir Figgles: "Hey, show some respect to our World Champion!"
Amy Maynard: "Nah, he didn't do anything to earn it. Topher, instead, he just put down one of the Bad Boyz in an impressive fashion."
Amy Maynard: "And unlike his brother, he didn't need any help to win a match."
Sir Figgles: "Hey, show some respect to our World Champion!"
Amy Maynard: "Nah, he didn't do anything to earn it. Topher, instead, he just put down one of the Bad Boyz in an impressive fashion."
Leia LeBeau:
How am I supposed to feel, Eloise? How am I supposed to feel about this?
Came the voice of the delightful Leia LeBeau, pacing up and down the overly quiet hallways of the Enterprise Arena in Chicago. She was dressed to the nines in her #NightFallShow attire, the images of the Nightfall logo, and herself and Donovan Keane on her sparkling ring attire, designed by the Savage Brand. She lifted up her top hat, the letters ‘DK’ painted upon her cheek in glitter, a rosy red lipstick mark painted underneath it. But in her eyes was worry, as she discussed matters with her elder sibling.
Eloise K. LeBeau:
Leia, you know for a fact I tried to have this changed. But the stipulation was in his hands.
Eloise, the hot shot agent, was dressed in an extremely tight business suit, coloured in Riot Orange, that clung to her curvaceous figure. She seemed a little concerned herself, holding a clipboard as she hammered out a message on her phone.
Leia LeBeau:
You saw what he did? You know exactly what he did. You saw what he did to my Donnie. And you have seen what he has continued to do, unpunished. Almost encouraged… What is happening here?
Eloise K. LeBeau:
Leia, calm down.
She put down the clipboard and phone, placing a hand delicately upon her sisters shoulder, trying to reassure her sister, while also trying to get her focused for her upcoming contest.
Eloise K. LeBeau:
It’s clear publicity. Everyone knows the issues between Donnie and… him. They are trying to sell an event and after what happened last time out, on a business level, it makes sense.
She took in a breath, Leia being unable to look at her as The Show gazed out, presumably looking for her lover, Donovan. Donnie hadn’t been seen all evening, and with a few tweets shared during the day between Donnie and his brother, Iggy, there had been rumours that he may not even make the event, if the internet gossip was to be believe. This must have been weighing down on Leia, who was clearly on edge.
Eloise K. LeBeau:
It doesn’t matter whether I like it, you like it or Donnie does. This is a business decision, without care for who is involved. Its money, all it is about is money.
Leia LeBeau:
I saw what he did, Eloise. And with the rules out of the window, I just… I just...
Eloise pulled her sibling close, giving her a warm hug, before she helped her into her dazzling ring jacket, complete with flashing LEDs with the phrase ‘Showtime’ spelled out on the back.
Eloise K. LeBeau:
Use it in the ring. And KEEP it in the ring. Leia, sweetie pie. Focus now.
Leia nodded her head, but may not have been listening, still gazing back as if searching for her Donnie.
Eloise K. LeBeau:
You are The Show. You are. You pull for the attention, and you get the attention. But right here, right now… You need to be Leia. You need to be Donnie’s Leia. And I remember the girl who marched into that college when Bebe was getting hell from her classmates, and the threats you gave made them never do that ever again.
Leia turned to face her sister upon hearing this reminder, and something seemed to click within her.
Eloise K. LeBeau:
You are my client, but you are also my sister and my best friend. LeBeau’s don’t fall apart. LeBeau’s get business done. And you are going to get that done tonight. And show management that they were wrong to not reinstate the championship matches you were robbed of. Remember what your new coach said, and be who you are.
Leia looked to the purple and scarlet strap on her leather jacket, then back to Eloise as her sister stuck out her hand to a passing stagehand.
Eloise K. LeBeau:
Latte.
As if by magic, a steaming latte appeared from the assistant, and she handed it to Leia. A warm smile appeared on her beautiful face as she took a deep gulp of her favourite beverage, and the way her face lit up there and then, just showed that it was made perfectly to her liking.
Eloise K. LeBeau:
You have proven, more than once, that you have what it takes to beat him. And just because the rules are out the window, and it seems that everything is stacked in his favour… You are The Show. So give the world The Show.
As Leia finished her drink (in record time), she placed down her cup, nodding to her sister in agreement.
Leia LeBeau:
I’m The Show.
She responded, a look of determination spreading across her face.
Leia LeBeau:
I’m not a victim, I’m not a damsel in distress. I’m strong, I’m capable, I’m fierce, I’m savage. I am The Show.
She picked up her cane, twirling it rapidly in her hands, wielding it more like a vicious weapon than a set piece for a performance. Eloise nodded at the sight of this, before Leia tucked the cane under her arm, readying herself for battle as she gazed towards the curtain.
Leia LeBeau:
They are going to get The Show tonight.
Once again we cut backstage, this time we're inside Freddie's locker room. The Prince Of Roses was dressing up in his ring gear after the shower he had to take courtesy of Jacky's latest prank. And obviously he wasn't over it yet, if anything this further humiliation only fueled his hate toward the former Rebellion World Champion. It wasn't until the moment when he looked at the mirror that he saw the words "I SEE YOU" written on the surface. "Son of a bitch..." He said before throwing his boot at the mirror, shattering the glass.
As Freddie headed out of his locker room, the camera cut back to ringside.
Hardcore Match
Leia LeBeau VS Asher MilesYou could tell that Leia LeBeau wasn’t comfortable stepping in the ring against the sadist that put her boyfriend in a hospital bed for over a month. Asher Miles noticed it and played into this, asking her how Donnie was doing and telling her that she will take the place he just left by the end of the night. To keep the promise, he kicked her in the stomach as soon as the bell rang, doubling her over and launching her shoulder first against the turnbuckle. Asher left the ring, grabbing Leia and dragging her through the ropes to suplex her on the outside, where he had now the chance to unleash his viciousness. The poor Leia was being tossed all over the ringside area, bouncing from the apron to the barricade and back again against the apron, taking a lot of punishment in these first minutes that clearly affected the rest of her match. Even when she finally managed to hit Miles with one of her kicks, it was clear that her back was hurting for the multiple attacks she suffered. She still went for a dropkick that sent the Antares on the floor, his head hitting against the commentators’ table. Leia took advantage of the hardcore rules, digging under the ring for a weapon. After a careful evaluation of her possibilities, she opted for a kendo stick, light and easy to handle. Asher just got up when she swung the cane in his mid section, doubling him over. She then moved next to him and put the cane around his neck, falling backwards with a russian legsweep. The Show was standing now next to Asher, hitting him with multiple shots to the chest, screaming that those were for Jay and Donnie. When she was done, Asher was coughing heavily, several red bruises covering his torso. LeBeau dragged him toward the ring and rolled him inside, making the cover for a two count. The young girl tried to keep the fight inside the ring, where she already proved she could hold her own against Miles. Sure, the lack of rules allowed her to take some liberties, like keeping the corner handstand foot choke for much longer than usually permitted, or using her powerful kicks in the most simple and effective way, aiming right between his legs, leaving Miles breathless and agonizing on his knees. She delivered a series of Show Kicks to the chest, following with the Seattle Slutdrop to pick up a near fall. Going for the standing somersault legdrop proved to be a mistake from the young Leia as Asher was able to move out of the way. The Antares took back control with a series of stiff shots, and left Leia laying on the floor after dropping her on her head with a brainbuster. Undisturbed, he had all the time to leave the ring and collect all sorts of foreign objects for his evil intents. The final part of the match was all Asher. The kid from Chicago was taking his time to punish the Show, refusing to make the cover despite having more than one occasion to end the match. Chair shots, a powerbomb through a table and even a corner shining wizard with a chair resting on Leia’s face. It was getting uncomfortable to watch, LeBeau now almost helpless against her boyfriend’s nemesis. She tried a reaction but her strikes lacked the strength and conviction to do Asher any harm. And soon he shattered all her hopes, dropping her on the chair with a tiger suplex. Trying to live up to his promise to put Leia in a hospital, he brought the steel steps in a deja vu from their first match back in April. And just like back then, Donovan Keane came to rescue his girlfriend from that terrible fate. It took him a while to reach the ring, walking slowly with the help of the crutches, clearly not healed from the dislocated hip suffered at Dark Web II, when Miles ran him over with the ambulance. But his desperate plea stopped Asher from crushing Leia under the weight of the steel steps. Donnie eventually entered the ring, immediately checking on the battered Leia, shielding her with his body. He looked up at Miles, begging him to spare her. This brought a wicked smile on Asher’s lips as he called Donovan “pathetic” and wondered “what happened to the old D”. He then ordered him to get up to his feet, which he did helping himself with the one crutch he brought inside the ring. Miles shook his head, laughing at Keane and kicking the crutch away. Donnie didn’t fall as he took the support away from him, perfectly able to stand on his two feet. And he was smiling. Before Asher could even realize it, Donnie rocked him with an enziguri kick and broke the crutch on Asher’s back. He then grabbed all the chairs he could find, bury the Antares under them and limping to the corner, climbing to the top of the turnbuckle to dive with his DK Bomb on the chairs. He seemed to be in a lot of pain after that, dragging his right leg as he walked away to let Leia pin Asher and pick up the win. WINNER: Leia LeBeau BY: Pinfall (DK Bomb), 12:04 |
Peyton Holland: "Well, look who's back..."
Ambra Monroe: "Donovan Keane got some payback on Asher Miles, and helped his girlfriend getting the win."
Peyton Holland: "And now it looks like he has something to say..."
As he stood up to his feet, Donovan is hit by the realization that jumping from the top rope onto a pile of chairs while still recovering from a dislocated hip wasn't the best idea he could come up with. With a grimace of pain on his face, he demanded a microphone, bringing it to his lips as he addressed the rival.
Donovan Keane:
You think you got rid of me, didn't you?
He smirked, stomping the downed opponent.
Donovan Keane:
Think again, bitch! If you really thought I was going to let your psycho ass hurt Leia?
Another kick to the ribs dropped Asher back on his face as he was trying to stand up.
Donovan Keane:
I would have come down that ramp on a fucking wheelchair to stop you. And in that case, maybe, you could have stand a chance.
Another kick, right to the curb. Leia took a step forward as to stop him, but she gave up on that idea when Donovan spoke again, this time raising the tone of his voice.
Donovan Keane:
Unfortunately for you little shit, I'm alnost fully healed. You ran me over with an ambulance, and still you couldn't keep me down. That speaks volumes about how big of a failure you are, Asher... You tried to put down Jay and you failed. You tried to take out me, same result. And don't let me start with Iggy, I know what you did...
This last kick was harder than the others, aimed at the side of Miles' head. Kaia at ringside begged him to stop, noticing that the Antares hasn't been moving since the curb stomp. Leia did the same, but her voice came out as just a whisper.
Donovan Keane:
Soon, I'll be cleared to compete again. And that day, I swear to God, I will end this.
Keane dropped the microphone on Asher's head, turning around toward Leia. His expression immediately changed as he stared at the beautiful girl, offering her his hand and a smile. A little hesitant, Leia eventually took it and the couple left the ring. Halfway on the ramp they crossed paths with the paramedics rushing to the ring to check on Miles.
Ambra Monroe: "Donovan Keane got some payback on Asher Miles, and helped his girlfriend getting the win."
Peyton Holland: "And now it looks like he has something to say..."
As he stood up to his feet, Donovan is hit by the realization that jumping from the top rope onto a pile of chairs while still recovering from a dislocated hip wasn't the best idea he could come up with. With a grimace of pain on his face, he demanded a microphone, bringing it to his lips as he addressed the rival.
Donovan Keane:
You think you got rid of me, didn't you?
He smirked, stomping the downed opponent.
Donovan Keane:
Think again, bitch! If you really thought I was going to let your psycho ass hurt Leia?
Another kick to the ribs dropped Asher back on his face as he was trying to stand up.
Donovan Keane:
I would have come down that ramp on a fucking wheelchair to stop you. And in that case, maybe, you could have stand a chance.
Another kick, right to the curb. Leia took a step forward as to stop him, but she gave up on that idea when Donovan spoke again, this time raising the tone of his voice.
Donovan Keane:
Unfortunately for you little shit, I'm alnost fully healed. You ran me over with an ambulance, and still you couldn't keep me down. That speaks volumes about how big of a failure you are, Asher... You tried to put down Jay and you failed. You tried to take out me, same result. And don't let me start with Iggy, I know what you did...
This last kick was harder than the others, aimed at the side of Miles' head. Kaia at ringside begged him to stop, noticing that the Antares hasn't been moving since the curb stomp. Leia did the same, but her voice came out as just a whisper.
Donovan Keane:
Soon, I'll be cleared to compete again. And that day, I swear to God, I will end this.
Keane dropped the microphone on Asher's head, turning around toward Leia. His expression immediately changed as he stared at the beautiful girl, offering her his hand and a smile. A little hesitant, Leia eventually took it and the couple left the ring. Halfway on the ramp they crossed paths with the paramedics rushing to the ring to check on Miles.
First Blood Match
Omari Johnson VS Marcus Ali Jr.Will Roush along with a couple of muscians in the drums and playing the violin performs "M.O.M" as a soaking wet Omari Johnson (wearing a wet black Human Superman t-shirt white and silver trunks) who has clearly poured a bottle of water over his head before makes his way to the ring to his new theme song "Man On a Mission". Omari recognizes Will Roush on the stage area. As Roush brings the song to a closure Omari is now pacing back and fort inside the ring, before taking off his wet shirt and tossing it to the outside of the ring. Performing on a prerecorded video, Plan B and Labrinth performs a stunning rendition of "Playing With Fire", while fire dancers lights up the stage area with their rods of fire. Half way into the song, we see Marcus Ali Jr (wearing black basketball like shorts, his hands are taped up) standing at the top of the stage. He touches his forehead which is bruised up from earlier. Clearly not in a good mood, Marcus makes his way to the ring. As soon Marcus enters the ring, Omari rushes at him and the two begins to brawl as the First Blood Match officially begins by the referee calling for the bell. The two guys lands right after right onto each other. Marcus however takes quick advantage by going low, with a kick to the groin. Marcus takes the early control of the match, by tossing Omari into the turnbuckles and begins a mudhole stomp. The beatings continue with Marcus connecting with several Pendulum Backbreakers back to back. While Omari was in the corner, Marcus rushes him, but Omari moves and goes between the ropes hitting shoulder first into the steel post. Marcus stumbles backwards right into a Release German Suplex. Marcus rolls to the outside, but is quickly taken out by a Suicide Dive by The Human Superman. Omari follows up with an Irish whip, but this is turned around by Marcus sending Omari face first into the steel post. The referee quickly checks to see if The Human Superman is busted open. He confirms that Omari Johnson is good and the match must continue. Marcus pulls a bruised and battered Omari up to his feet, but Omari drops to his knees and connects with a devastating low blow to the former WBO Junior Heavyweight Champion. It was a direct respond to the low blow Marcus hit Omari with earlier. From behind Omari lifts Marcus with a Back Duplex and drops him back first in the edge of the commentary table. Omari the backs up and runs full speed ahead towards Ali Jr, who ducks and connects with an awkward looking Back Body Drop, sending Johnson crashing into the commentary table. The table however did not budge. Johnson and Ali Jr battle their way over the barricade, using garbage bins and kendo sticks to punish each other, but neither was bleeding by the time they reach to the stage area. Marcus sent The Human Superman flying into the drum set. But a hurting Omari, uses one of the drums to take out Marcus, before continuing their brawl. They brawl their way down the ramp, Marcus connects with a kick to the gut of Omari. But instead Omari tosses him over his shoulders with a big back drop. Marcus crashes hard on to the steel ramp. He reels in pain as Omari tries to get a breather and catch back himself. Omari goes under the ring and pulls out a fire extinguisher and uses it on an approaching Marcus. Omari goes to takeout Marcus with the extinguisher, but a desperate Marcus connects with an Iron Fist. Omari goes down and Marcus buys himself sometime to recover from Omari's brief onslaught. As Marcus makes his way over to the commentators table and grabs a steel chair, Omari slowly gets up and rolls back into the ring. Marcus Ali Jr notices this and enters the ring with the steel chair. Just as he aims to deal a devastating chair shot to Omari, out of nowhere Omari connects with Super Duper Kick, kicking the steel chair to the face of Marcus. Marcus goes down holding his face as the referee checks for any signs of blood. In the meantime Omari Johnson picks up the steel chair, just then The Masked Angel (wearing his complete SWAT gear) rushes down the ramp slides into the ring and walks right into a chair shot. Marcus still on the canvas holding his face and the referee trying to see signs of blood, Khalil Washington III (wearing a black hoodie and black jeans and black combat boots) rushes to the ring. He gears up to spear Omari, who turns around to see Khalil rushes him, Omari side steps and bumps into the referee. The referee falls to the outside, as Khalil quickly turns around Omari slams the steel chair to head of Khalil. Marcus Ali Jr finally up to his feet turns around and his is busted wide open, blood pouring down from his forehead to his face. As Omari turns around much like the beginning of the match, Marcus delivers a swift kick to the groin of Omari dropping him down to both knees. Marcus grabs the steel chair as he is about to connect the steel chair to head of a kneeling Human Superman Omari Johnson, the referee who is back to his feet on the outside notices Marcus, and calls for the bell. WINNER: Omari Johnson BY: First Blood (Chair Shot), 14:19 |
Amy Maynard: It's over, Omari has won.
Sir Figgles: Oh my God, Marcus doesn't look to happy.
This caught the attention of Marcus who drops the chair, exits the ring and states at the referee who is telling Marcus the match is over. An enraged Marcus spins around and connects with an Iron Fist to the referee. Referees and other backstage officials rushes to ringside in aid of their fellow referee, and cameraman who also assaulted by The Bad Boy. As they try they try to calm down Marcus, Johnson who is now back on his feet, makes his way to the apron and leaps towards Marcus, taking out The Bad Boy and a few of the officials. A busted up Marcus Ali Jr stumbles to his feet, as Omari Johnson goes on the offensive with hard rights. Marcus responds with rights of his own, before using a knee to the gut of Omari to gain the upper hand. Marcus goes to Irish whip Omari, but the winner of the First Blood Match turns it around sending Marcus into another camera guy. Finally referees and other officials try to control the situation, as Omari approaches Marcus, Marcus quickly responds with a shot with the camera from the cameraman he bumped into. At this time Omari was busted wide open, probably even worse than Marcus Ali Jr. The out of control brawl continued, towards the backstage area, as Michael Ali looked to try and calm Marcus down, but he was taken out by a hard right from Marcus. The brawl continued through the backstage area, where Khalil and The Masked Angel along with referees and backstage security finally break up the two bloodied wrestlers. Khalil Washington III and The Masked Angel forced their buddy into a black SUV, while security holds back Omari Johnson, Marcus could be heard yelling "This ain't over". Back at ring side we see medical staff checking on the referee who was struck with the Iron Fist and the cameraman who were knocked out in a hard collision with Marcus.
Amy Maynard: Chaos, mayhem, and I don't think it's over.
Sir Figgles: This First Blood Match did nothing to solve hatred between Marcus and Omari.
Amy Maynard: Omari is the victor, but both guys left here tonight busted open.
Sir Figgles: Winner of the battle, but the war continues.
Amy Maynard: The war indeed continues between Omari Johnson and Marcus Ali Jr.
Sir Figgles: The question is how far will it go?
Amy Maynard: Truly, I don't think I want to know.
The pre recorded scene opens in a nondescript room. Pierce Manning is sitting on a brown wooden stool. He is wearing a grey double breasted suit, white shirt and a crimson red tie. We notice he has a Rolex watch on his right wrist. As composed as he’s ever been, Pierce appears ready to speak.
Pierce Manning:
What a journey it has been for yours truly. From getting my ass handed to me inside a Steel Cage Death Match four months ago to challenging for the Invictus Championship at By Any Means. Doesn’t feel like five months I’ve been in the company. Been quite a road to get here. I sit here before you with a chance to become a champion for the first time in five years.
Pierce pauses to let the reality of what this night could mean sink in.
Pierce Manning:
I haven’t been wrestling five years consecutively in that time period. Before MWE I was on a two year hiatus more or less. Doesn’t change the facts. I used to be a champion. I have a faint idea of what it feels like to be at the top of a division. And I want that experience again. Me and Jenni talk a lot about what The Establishment wants. We know what is best for all of you. I’m gonna push that to the side for one night. As I stand on the precipice of becoming a champion once again, I’m going to do what is best for myself. Not The Establishment. Not Jenni. Tonight is way too important to be motivated by the rhetoric. This is about my career and my life.”
Pierce adjust his tie.
Pierce Manning:
I have grown a lot in the past five months. I went from a spoiled entitled boy to someone who the grind of the MWE schedule and the competition has humbled, made into a man. It doesn’t matter how much money you have, it doesn’t protect you from getting humiliated inside a Steel Cage. Doesn’t stop your assistant from costing you a match. Having more money than God doesn’t buy you championship gold in this company. Take the money away, who are we? Professional wrestlers. Relax, I am not going to go into a spiel about what is good for wrestling, I am not that altruistic. What I do know, when I look back at my career all I mostly see is a boulevard of disappointment. I can not allow that to be my legacy.”
Pierce Manning shakes his head.
Pierce Manning:
Pierce Manning, --the wrestler-- is the one that matters when it is all said and done, what’s the point of having all this money with no success? The only real thing I’ve done of note around here is beat Glory in my debut match and beat the longest reigning Invictus Champion in MWE history. I need to accomplish more. That’s where beating Echo comes in. Do I believe I would make a better champion than her? Yes. As great as she is, look at her. Look at me. Who would Grace Van Beek feel comfortable with going to the radio shows to promote MWE? Who would our boss rather hit the late night talk show circuit promoting her brand? Between me and Echo, who translates better on pay per view posters?”
Me. Clearly.
I am a good looking guy with the body of Adonis. I speak articulately. I am the type of person who you can put on a magazine to bring in the more casual viewer. Echo has an edgy look. Great wrestler, yes. Promotable? Facts don’t lie. Plus, she has a foul mouth and an attitude that screams uneducated. I am a man of class. Dignity. I have done the work to improve myself every step of the way while a person like Echo remains the same. Has bully tendencies. Not what a champion should be.
Pierce shakes his head.
Pierce Manning:
If I was a fan, I would want to see a person like me walk out Invictus Champion. The stock of the championship will go through the roof when that happens. I am going to do myself, my inner fan and the company a huge favor. Win. In the process I will end my drought, I will prove to myself I am championship material, I give the company a respectable champion. And everyone goes home happy... except Echo. She hasn’t beaten me yet. Unlike Katniss Everdeen... the odds won’t be in her favor.
Pierce wink as the scene fades to black.
Invictus Championship Match
Echo (c) VS Pierce ManningAfter beating Echo in controversial circumstances back in April Pierce Manning finally had his chance at the Invictus Championship tonight in Chicago. First Round Both Echo and Pierce looked extremely focused as they received the last words of advice respectively from the former Riot general manager Yulia Kirilenko and the trusted Jared Constable. This was evident in the first minutes of the match when they barely got any offense in, a prolonged study phase that showcased Echo’s progress in the grappling department. Manning, who was probably counting on this technical advantage, had now to change his strategy, bringing the match to a more physical level. Even in the striking department the match remained broadly balanced, with the Australian holding her own against the bigger opponent. But eventually Manning was able to land a quick jab to the chin that took the champion off guard. He was quick to pierce (pun intended) through her now lowered guard and delivering a series of knee strikes to the ribs, scooping her up and dropping her on his knee with a rib breaker. Echo was writhing in pain on the floor but when Pierce came within range for his next offense, with a jerk she grabbed his leg, tripping him and going for her lethal heel hook. The bell rang moments after she locked the submission in, saving Manning a lot of pain if not the match entirely. Judges Scores Moretti: Manning 10-9 Maynard: Manning 10-9 Figgles: Manning 10-9 Second Round Despite losing the first round, Echo started the second one with a cocky smile on her face. She immediately went for the leg, trying to take down the opponent and lock her heel hook, forcing Pierce on the defensive. When she didn’t try to grab it, she reached it with quick kicks. Manning was being extremely careful,moving around the champion and not giving her any opening. When he least expected it, Echo faked another kick to the leg and jumped on him with a Thesz press instead, taking him to the ground and dropping lefts and rights to the face. He quickly rolled over, switching position and hitting Echo with one single stiff forearm to the jaw before getting up to his feet and swinging his leg for a kick to the face. The Invictus champion dropped down and avoided it, grabbing the leg of the off balance opponent and bringing him down on the canvas. Pierce quickly rolled to counter the heel hook attempt by kicking away Echo. As he got up to his feet, he tried to take the charging opponent’s head off with a clothesline, ducked by the blonde who then dropped him down with a snap german suplex. The last minute of the round saw Echo pounding the challenger with relentless strikes in the corner, leaving no doubt to the judges on who won the round. Judges Scores: Moretti: Echo 10-9 Maynard: Echo 10-9 Figgles: Echo 10-9 Final Round The slight advantage for the champion forced Pierce's hand, pushing him to a more aggressive style. This new approach initially took off guard Echo, who stumbled a couple of times under his hard strikes. With his rotating belly to belly suplex he took the opponent to the ground, looking to apply a choke hold to submit her. But Echo wiggled away and sat on his back, dropping heavy forearms to the back of his head. She smashed his face on the canvas before getting up to her feet and yelling at Manning to get up. When he did, she kicked him in the stomach and lifted him for her knee drop brainbuster but Manning shifted his bodyweight to slip away, catching her with a roaring elbow as she turned around. The last two minutes were a hard hitting back and forth, the two competitors looking for that KO blow that could grant them the win. Echo put all her hopes in that Fedor casting punch that seems to be a trademark of Fight Lab, but it only rocked Pierce who then answered with a bicycle knee strike that busted Echo’s lips open. The bell rang and another even round came to an end. Echo wiped off the blood from her chin and smiled at her trainer Yulia, confident to walk out once again as the Invictus Champion. Judges Scores: Moretti: Draw 10-10 Maynard: Draw 10-10 Figgles: Manning 10-9 WINNER: Pierce Manning (NEW CHAMPION) BY: Judges Decision, Round 3; 5:00 |
Peyton Holland: "It's over, we have a new champion!"
Ambra Monroe: "The first title changed hands. Congratulations to Pierce Manning."
Peyton Holland: "I don't want to be that guy, but I'm curious to know what tipped the scale in his favor for Figgins."
Ambra Monroe: "It wasn't an easy call, the third round much like all the match was such an even contest. And in his opinion, Pierce did better than Echo in that last bout."
Ambra Monroe: "The first title changed hands. Congratulations to Pierce Manning."
Peyton Holland: "I don't want to be that guy, but I'm curious to know what tipped the scale in his favor for Figgins."
Ambra Monroe: "It wasn't an easy call, the third round much like all the match was such an even contest. And in his opinion, Pierce did better than Echo in that last bout."
“Moonlit” by Rivals blares over the PA system and out walks Megan Rydell with the Intercontinental Championship on her shoulder. She made her way down to the ring before sliding in and grabbing a mic.
Megan Rydell:
I told you all that I was going to be rebranding myself tonight. The question on all of your minds is… Why? Right?
Megan paces around the ring for a moment before continuing on.
Megan Rydell:
It’s simple, really. I’m tired of having a name that’s tainted. No matter the level of success I have, no matter all the hard work I put in, it still doesn’t get the respect it deserves and it’s because of the Rydell name.
Meg’s eyes turn cold as she glares into the camera.
Megan Rydell:
This is your fault, Kenzie. You’re an embarrassment and even I haven’t been able to salvage the damage you’ve done. So I’m not just dropping the name but I’m dropping you. Megan Rydell is dead. Say hello to…
Megan points to the nameplate on her Intercontinental Championship and the camera zooms in and sees that it says, ‘Megan Monroe’.
Megan Monroe:
You can all call me Megan Monroe from here on out. Instead of using that failure of a last name, I’m now using my mother’s maiden name and standing on my own. I’m doing this because I deserve it. I deserve to have my own legacy without someone else’s failures as a professional and a person tainting it. My sister is a failure, an alcoholic and someone who has pushed away every friend she’s ever had. But me? I’m the epitome of success. My focus is my career and I’ve done nothing but elevate myself above the rest. I’ve done nothing but elevate this Intercontinental Championship.
Meg raises the Championship in the air and smirks.
Megan Monroe:
The year of Megan Rydell is dead. Welcome to the birth of Megan Monroe. And let me tell you something, we’re just getting started. The best is yet to come. And that’s going to start off with me beating the hell out of Soph tomorrow night. See you out there.
Meg drops the mic and her theme hits. She walks up the ramp and disappears backstage and the scene cuts away.
Chicago Way Championship Match
Falls Count Anywhere
Joey Leclair (c) VS Vin HalsteadFalls Count Anywhere
The two competitors never even made it to the ring. The Death Dealer struck Halstead during the entrance, hitting him from behind with a forearm to the back, dropping him on his knees. Leclair unwrapped the title from around his waist and smacked it on Vin's face. With the opponent down, Leclair bellowed in his face this was what he got for trying to fuck with him, and then crushed his sternum under his boot. Leaving the title on the ramp, Joey dragged his opponent up to his feet by his hair and tried to throw him against the barricade but Halstead reversed the attempt. He didn't give Joey the chance to get up, beginning to stomp the hell out of him causing Leclair's head to bounce against the barricade multiple times. Lifting him over his head in a gorilla press position, Halstead then simply let him fall on the barricade edge for a backbreaker. Always followed by the referee, the pair reached the backstage area brawling down the hallways. Seeing as the opponent was getting the upper hand, Joey didn't think twice and kicked him between the legs, pushing his face against the wall. Then he literally dragged his face against it for several feet, until the veteran managed to create some separation with a punch to the kidney. Looking like a Batman villain with half of his face covered by a big red bruise, Halstead dropped a couple of heavy open handed chops to Joey’s chest before tossing him though a closed door. A female voice screaming was heard coming from inside the room that was revealed to be Elsa’s office. The young general manager cowered back into a corner, visibly shaken by the unexpected break-in. From the ground, Leclair kicked the challenger away, buying himself a few seconds to recover and get up to his feet. Barely affected by the kick, Vin Halstead eradicated the door and broke it on Joey’s head, knocking down the champion who barely survived the cover attempt. As the two competitors were absolutely trashing the office, Ryen Riekert sneaked in an brought Elsa to safety. Halstead speared Leclair through the couch, starting a brawl on the floor with the two men jockeying for position, rolling back and forth trying to get a position of advantage. Leclair grabbed a bottle of liquor from the cabinet and smashed it across his head. Vin fell down like a ton of bricks, blood immediately gushing down his face. There was another pinning predicament, the referee dropping in position and starting the count, carefully avoiding the shards scattered on the floor. Somehow Vin was able to kick out. The General Manager office looked like a battlefield when these two were done. Papers scattered everywhere, the desk broken in half after Leclair was out through it with a powerbomb, miraculously kicking out in two. Even the stapler was turned into a weapon, firstly as Joey launched it at the charging opponent, catching him right on the head. Then he used it on his cheek, eliciting a scream of pain for every staple he ruthlessly applied on his skin. But the ending came when, with a wicked smile, Joey grabbed the oil on canvas portrait of Grace van Beek hanging on the wall behind what was left of Elsa’s desk and broke it on Vin’s head that was now popping off the painting, coincidentally exactly where the MWE owner’s face was. A Death Dealer Elbow sealed the deal, granting Joey his first successful retain. WINNER: Joey Leclair (STILL CHAMPION) BY: Pinfall (Death Dealer Elbow), 13:17 |
Amy Maynard: "Another successful defense for the Chicago Way champion."
Sir Figgles: "And he made it look easy... Who was even that guy? I forgot his name already.."
Amy Maynard: "Sigh..."
Sir Figgles: "What? It's true, I legit forgot..."
Sir Figgles: "And he made it look easy... Who was even that guy? I forgot his name already.."
Amy Maynard: "Sigh..."
Sir Figgles: "What? It's true, I legit forgot..."
Constantly turning back to make sure he's not being followed, or watched, a slightly upset Freddie Hjalmar walked the hallway with a fast pace. His destination? The office of Millennium's General Manager Elsa McCarthy. Once in, Hjalmar complained to Elsa about "that creep" she signed stalking him. "It's been going for weeks" he barked, accusing McCarthy of endorsing that behavior by not taking actions against Daniels. Elsa pointed out how, tonight, Freddie has a chance at payback, but Hjalmar replied that it wasn't enough.
"Once I beat that freak fair and square..." He couldn't even finish the sentence as a light laughter interrupted him. It wasn't coming from Elsa, but from somewhere behind his shoulders. As he turned around, the Rapscallion was there, coming from apparently out of nowhere. Freddie couldn't resisit trying to hit the opponent with a right hand, but Jacky was quick to dodge it. A second time Hjalmar swung and missed, immediately finding back his balance ready to strike again. Things were about to degenerate and Elsa quickly called for security. Ryen Riekert and his men kept the two contenders separated, even though in Jacky's case that wouldn't probably have been necessary as the Rapscallion seemed to be perfectly calm. Unlike the Promised, who kept trying to break free from the men holding him back.
Elsa stepped toward the two men saying that "since they clearly can't see eye to eye" (a pun that amused Daniels and irritated the second generation wrestler) in their match they won't. The confusion on their face turned into a look of disbelief as Elsa announced that they will be competing in MWE's first ever Blindfolded Match, before asking security to rake them out of her office.
The show cuts to some pre-recorded footage in an empty arena where Hayley Halsey stands with her Jr. Heavyweight Championship inside of a ring that consists of her and just a referee. She has a microphone in her hands as she appears to be completely unamused at what’s been going on around her lately. Still, she maintains as much of her composure as she can before she begins to express her thoughts.
Hayley Halsey:
When I won this championship, this was supposed to be the start of a new GLORIOUS era for me and yet… since I’ve won this championship it’s been shenanigan after shenanigan! I was immediately thrown into a title defense against Kristina Spencer which… FAIR… rematch clause… blah blah blah… whatever… and then some idiots had to ruin that for me. Then there was that tag team match where APE decided to get involved and that’s the only time I am even going to mention them because they already have way too much spotlight around here as it is… and then you have a BULLSHIT situation that happened a couple of weeks back where Kristina Spencer and Kimberly Williams fought to become the number one contender for this championship.
I can’t believe I am actually saying this because I can’t stand the woman but… Kristina never got a proper rematch considering all the shenanigans and bullshit that happened when she got her rematch. Why doesn’t she just get another one? Why did she even HAVE to go through a number one contender’s match? On top of that… NEITHER won… which means NEITHER one of them should be getting this shot tomorrow but here we are… because the powers that be have their predictable heads up their asses. “Oh, give them both the shot”. Right, to screw ME over when I had nothing to do with that? It’s not MY FAULT that they couldn’t get it done. I haven’t had a REAL opportunity to prove I am a fighting champion since I won this thing… so I am here to make a point. Introducing…
The Hayley Halsey Super Glorious Independent Open Challenge!!!
Hayley pauses and has a confident smirk on her face.
Hayley Halsey:
Every now and then, I am going to give ONE fortunate soul a chance from the Independent scene… I don’t care WHERE they come from… it can be ANYONE… a chance to make a name for themselves and to get noticed by the business! See, unlike most people on this roster… I appreciate my Indy background and how hard I’ve had to grind to be able to get to this point in my career. If they beat me… by pinfall or submission I should mention… then I will PERSONALLY put in a good word for them for MWE to sign them… AND… they will win $100,000! Granted… I should point out that this is not sanctioned by the company and… well… I have certain people to thank for sponsoring this project. So… as a warm up for tomorrow… I’m calling out ANYONE to face me in the ring… so I can make an example out of them… sooo…
Hayley is unaware that a masked wrestler is sneaking into the ring right from behind.
Hayley Halsey:
If you want a chance to win $100,000 you’re going to have to walk into this ring an…
The masked wrestler gives Hayley a double axe handle from behind, knocking her right down to the mat and causing her to drop the microphone. The referee calls for the bell and the match is on. The masked wrestler stomps and kicks at Hayley who is getting up through this. The masked wrestler grabs her and tries to suplex her from behind, but Hayley responds with a back elbow causing a stumble and a release. Hayley delivers a stiff roundhouse kick to the jaw knocking down the masked wrestler. Hayley gets up and she’s fuming pissed.
Hayley Halsey:
Okay… who the FUCK are you?
Hayley pulls up the opponent and in one, quick motion, she tears off the mask revealing… Vianca Alvarez….
Hayley Halsey:
OH FOR FUCK’S SAKE!
Hayley just laughs at this.
Hayley Halsey:
You’re here to get revenge on me, aren’t you, you useless piece of shit?
Hayley drags Vianca down with an arm drag and then claps a Fujiwara armbar on her former best friend who she had kicked to the curb months ago. Vianca screams in agony as she taps out immediately. Hayley refuses to break the hold until the referee starts to make a count and at that point, Hayley lets her go.
Hayley Halsey:
FUNNY… ever since I kicked YOU to the curb, my career has gotten better. Hmm…
While Vianca writhes in pain, Hayley goes to the top rope and connects with her “So Ridiculous” corkscrew moonsault, causing her more pain.
Hayley Halsey:
Let’s have a chat, shall we…
Hayley drags Vianca out of the ring and then drags her up the ramp and into the locker room… the pre-recorded footage fading to black.
Blindfold Match
Freddie Hjalmar VS Jacky Rex DanielsJacky seemed rather calm, not falling for Freddie's taunts but keeping his aplomb instead. The Promised kept taunting the opponent, poking him about how he won't be able to see him anymore soon. The referee stepped between the two contestants, starting the blindfolding procedure. Freddie was invited to step back into the corner so that the referee could cover his eyes with a black hood. The official did the same to Jacky and eventually called for the bell. The first ever blindfold match in MWE was officially underway. The two competitors began moving with extreme caution, Hjalmar holding the top rope with his hand, measuring the ring while Jacky, his hands extended in front of him, was taking small steps toward where he thought Freddie would be. He didn’t find him, reaching the opposite corner instead. By that time, Hjalmar had pretty much walked around the entire ring, slowly approaching the corner he started from, the same corner Jacky was in. And finally the two locked up, Freddie trying to push himself the opponent in the corner and Jacky doing the exact same thing. None of them was really getting any advantage, until Hjalmar broke the stale with a knee to the guts. He had now his opponent stuck in the corner, lighting up his chest with some hard chops. One of those caught Daniels on the face as he tried to duck it. Freddie then switched to some knee strikes but the Australian shoved him back and tried to go for a bicycle kick, missing the target completely. Stumbling around in the dark, the two competitors were trying to find one another and eventually the Promised caught the opponent from behind in a waistlock. Jacky was quick to switch and shift position, connecting a quick german suplex and attempting the first cover, only obtaining a count of one. It was definitely a unique sight for the fans watching at home, the two competitors usually flawless in their executions, were obviously struggling to get any offense in. The absence of a loud crowd played in their favor tonight as it allowed them to hear the opponent's movements and focus on that to orient themselves. There was a body slam from Jacky, who then missed the following elbow drop as Freddie rolled to the side. The Promised quickly found him and clubbed him with a couple of forearms to the back, adding a few stomps as he was laying on the floor. Feeling around he managed to get Daniels in a front facelock, dragging him up to the his feet and trying to suplex him. The former Rebellion World Champion blocked the attempt by hooking his leg with Freddie's, trying to get free with some punches to the ribcage. He eventually was able to slip out of the facelock, switching side-to-side and looping his arm around the neck and falling backwards with a Russian leg sweep. From a headlock position, Jacky punched Hjalmar on the head a few times before eventually driving him on the canvas with a bulldog, rolling him on his back and trying another cover. Once again Hjalmar kicked out in two. The stipulation seemed to be favoring Jacky, more well versed in the technical aspect. Fishing in his vast arsenal of throws, Daniels pulled out moves like The Wild Blue Yonder (double underhook spinning side slam) and his ripcord Saito suplex Ex Oblivione, but the Promised always kicked out. Freddie had to change his style, relying less on direct strikes that, in most cases, were missing the target and completely avoiding all the running and acrobatic moves he usually implemented in his offense. DDTs and neckbreakers instead proved to be quite effective to stay ahead of the Rapscallion. An inverted ddt notably earned the Promised a particularly close near fall. Jacky kicked out and used the ropes to pull himself up, looking dazed and slowly making his way the corner. Freddie groped around in the dark, having lost contact with his opponent who was now recovering against the turnbuckle. The referee went to check on him, asking it he felt good to continue the match or if he needed assistance. Hearing them talking a few steps away and figuring that the referee had his back turned, Freddie quickly pulled up the hoodie covering his eyes to identify where the opponent was positioned, charging and hitting him with The Thorne (Bicycle Knee Strike). He then made the cover, leaning his feet on the middle rope for extra leverage, stealing the win. WINNER: Freddie Hjalmar BY: Pinfall (The Thorne), |
Ambra Monroe: "Freddie found a way to cheat in order to win... I'm shocked."
Peyton Holland: "He never let the rules get in the way of what, he believes, is his destiny. He's the Promised, after all."
Ambra Monroe: "Yeah, i don't think Jacky will accept that excuse..."
Peyton Holland: "He never let the rules get in the way of what, he believes, is his destiny. He's the Promised, after all."
Ambra Monroe: "Yeah, i don't think Jacky will accept that excuse..."
The pre-recorded scene opens up inside a dimly lit gym. Sitting on the ring apron of an empty wrestling ring are Kyle Butler and Neil Newman, the MWE Tag Team Champions The Golden Era. Kyle is sitting to the left of Neil. Both men don’t appear to be their normal enthusiastic selves. No one can blame them. On the recent edition of Millennium, the A.P.E attempted to use their wives, Jessica and Summer, to send a message to them. It’s quite clear both men are foaming at the mouth to say something, anything. Both men look at each other. Neil looks to the camera first. He runs his fingers through his hair.
Neil Newman:
For the past thirteen days we have been thinking about something witty to say. Is there any point? I can make an articulate argument about how much better we are than A.P.E. What the differences are between us and that shit show of a collective. Both our groups aren’t popular among the fans. Surely... A.P.E is far worse. Does it matter? I am NOT interested in espousing those differences. Not today. Not when A.P.E CROSSED THE DAMN LINE!
Neil takes a deep breath.
Neil Newman:
No monologue. No more words. No roll tides. Tonight, Kyle and I will be men of action. So the only thing that needs to be said is this--
Neil looks at Kyle. Kyle shoots an intense look into the camera.
Kyle Butler:
A.P.E... the only thing me and Neil care about is kicking your ass, bay bay!
Neil and Kyle fist bump as the scene fades to black.
MWE Tag Team Championship Match
Tornado Rules
Tornado Rules
Golden Era VS APE (Alan Envy & Duke Andrews)
There was no love lost between the four men, and the tension that has kept building throughout the past weeks, culminated with APE’s attack on Newman and Butler’s wives a couple of weeks ago found its outlet as soon as the bell rang in a massive brawl in the middle of the ring. Fists were flying back and forth, Neil trading hands with Alan Envy while Duke and Kyle battled it out not too far away. Both members of APE came out on top of the respective exchange, grabbing their opponents by the wrist and whipping them one against the other for a meeting of the minds in the middle of the ring. They tried a double pin, but Kyle and Neil both kicked out in time. Duke threw Butler out of the ring, starting doing what APE does best, which was using the numerical superiority to their advantage. Alan was holding Newman in a full nelson position while Andrews started punching hm in the ribs. Kyle was getting back in the ring, Alan spotted him and warned Duke who quickly turned around and kicked him in the stomach, following with a knee to the face. In the meantime Alan dropped Neil on his neck with a full nelson suplex, quickly getting back and helping Duke taking care of the other half of the Golden Era. The roles were now reversed, the former Lockdown champion was keeping the opponent in position for Alan to beat him up with chops, straight punches and kicks to the abdomen. When Neil made it back to his feet, Envy quickly spun around and took him down with a discus clothesline to take him down, and Duke lifted Butler with a german suplex. APE’s strategy worked well for a few minutes, but eventually Golden Era managed to turn the tables, starting to do what THEY do best, which was out-wrestle the opponents. Both Duke and Alan began flying all across the ting courtesy of the tag team champions and their suplexes. Kyle and Neal also showed their chemistry with double team maneuvers, from a backbreaker/diving knee drop combination to a double suplex on Alan Envy. Kyle relentlessly pounded Duke with stiff strikes, using a clothesline to drop him out of the ring. Hearing his partner calling his name, he turned around to see Neil lifting Alan over his shoulders in an argentine rack position, providing the assist for his neckbreaker. As Newman made the cover, Butler stopped Andrews from getting back inside the ring, but his effort was made pointless by Alan raising his shoulder in time. There was no break in this match that already went over the fifteen minutes mark, the pace remained quick despite the athletes showing some signs of fatigue and the action back and forth and hard hitting. One by one they all hit their finishers, the Envious Demise on Neil, followed by Kyle hitting his Roooooooooooooollllll TIDE! on Alan only to fall right after by hands of the Andrews Effect. Alan didn't even have time to celebrate as he got caught in Newman’s End Game, the standing triangle choke seemingly making the Epitome Of Perfection faint. Unsurprisingly, out came REDD Thunder to tip the scale in APE’s favor. The Walking Disaster had made it to the ring and despite the referee and Newman yelling at him to stay away. Javen came running down the ramp and grabbed Redd’s leg, pulling him off the apron. The referee didn’t see it but Duke tapped out, and this caused Newman to, obviously, let go of him. When he didn’t hear the bell ringing and noticed that the referee was distracted, Neil complained to the official, and rightfully so. Then it all happened so fast, Duke hitting a low blow from behind Newman’s back and charging him on his shoulders for the Andrews Effect, Javen entering the ring to prevent APE from walking out with the gold, Michigan’s Favorite Son reading his intentions and dropping the opponent in front of him, right in the trajectory of Simon’s superkick. Duke quickly rolled Neil up, Alan tackled the McMillion who was ready to break up the count while REDD intercepted Kyle, preventing him from saving his partner from what turned out to be the decisive three count. WINNER: APE (NEW CHAMPIONS) BY: Pinfall (School Boy Pin), 18:13 |
Amy Maynard: "What... What did Javen just do?"
Sir Figgles: "The right thing, that's what he did!"
Amy Maynard: "Hold on, I thought you were a Golden Era guy..."
Sir Figgles: "I was until i saw the odds for APE to walk out with the titles. I couldn't resist."
Amy Maynard: "I think it's time we talk about your problem, Figgles.."
Sir Figgles: "Problem? I don't have a goddamn problem, Amy. I would have if Kyle and Neal retained but Javen solved that for me. I owe him a drink."
Amy Maynard: "You and APE both."
Sir Figgles: "The right thing, that's what he did!"
Amy Maynard: "Hold on, I thought you were a Golden Era guy..."
Sir Figgles: "I was until i saw the odds for APE to walk out with the titles. I couldn't resist."
Amy Maynard: "I think it's time we talk about your problem, Figgles.."
Sir Figgles: "Problem? I don't have a goddamn problem, Amy. I would have if Kyle and Neal retained but Javen solved that for me. I owe him a drink."
Amy Maynard: "You and APE both."
We open backstage where we find the self-proclaimed “Best in the World” (and British Bombshell, don’t forget that) Glory Braddock in the Glorious Golden Era dressing room. The blonde haired British beauty is dressed in her typical purple wrestling attire and she looks ready to compete. Braddock also appears to be quite confident based solely on the smug, if not downright arrogant smirk etched across her beautiful features. One may wonder why Braddock appears so confident? She is, after all, down one fall to two in the best of five series. One more loss and she loses the series to Henri Black. Perhaps we will get an insight into why her confidence is still at its peak momentarily?
Standing behind The British Bombshell are her allies, MWE Junior Heavyweight (or is that Super Glorious now?) Champion Hayley Hasley and the MWE World Tag Team Champions, Neil Newman and Kyle Butler. Braddock faces the camera and begins to speak.
Glory Braddock:
Tonight the pressure is on, tonight I cannot afford to have simply a great performance against Henri Black, I need to have a damn near perfect performance against Henri Black, because tonight, in match four of the best of five series, I am down one fall to two, and I need to win otherwise I’m done. If I lose tonight then the Riot Championship slips out of my grasp. And on top of all of that, this will be contested inside of a steel cage.
The British Bombshell shakes her head as a low bit of laughter escapes her lips.
Glory Braddock:
Most would falter under such immense pressure but most people are not me. I do my best work under pressure. And inside of a steel cage? Well, it’s almost poetic, because what do you know about a wounded animal...cornered...caged...with nowhere to go? That wounded animal comes out fighting. And that’s how I have built my career. I have built my career and made a name for myself by overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds. Henri thinks I can’t do this. He thinks I can’t win tonight. The puppets, the leeches known as wrestling fans out there point fingers at me, claiming I am the arrogant one, and yet Henri Black is now sitting pretty thinking he has this well in hand. But tonight he gets a reality check. Tonight he will learn that my claim to being The Best in the World comes not simply from being able to beat anyone in a straight up wrestling match, but also from my adaptability. I can face anyone in any situation and overcome them. I can take on anyone against overwhelming odds and not only survive but thrive. I have done this my entire career and I will do so again tonight.
Braddock chuckles.
Glory Braddock:
You know, this event is appropriately titled By Any Means...and in a way myself and The Glorious Golden Era helped name this event, because we have fought with the motto of “By Any Means” since day one of our formation. We realize that we need to achieve our goal of achieving the best for professional wrestling by any means necessary. It got us to this point, where Neil, Kyle, and Hayley all hold championship gold. And by the time this best of five series is over, Henri, I will hold the Riot Championship, and The Glorious Golden Era will dominate the Riot brand and that is what is best for professional wrestling. You’re welcome…
Best Of Five Series Riot Championship Match
Match Four: Steel Cage Match
Henri Black VS Glory BraddockMatch Four: Steel Cage Match
Only one option for Glory Braddock. Win this match to keep her hopes alive and take the series to the final match. Henri, on the other hand, would love nothing more than ending the dispute tonight and put his hands on the orange brand biggest prize without the fifth match, asserting his dominance without any shadow of doubt. That determination and perhaps a gun-shy approach from Glory allowed the Blackstar to take control in the early moments and give vent to his most vicious style, immediately implementing the cage in his offense. He launched Braddock against it with all the strength he was capable of, hitting her with a stiff forearm to the back of the head as she bounced back. The Best In The World, went down to her knees, getting hit with a nasty running knee from behind and followed with the first cover attempt, obtaining a count of two. After a rough start that saw her completely at the mercy of her opponent, the British Bombshell eventually found her footing. Leaving aside the submission holds to favor a more impactful shooting style, Glory landed some swift kicking combinations sending Henri to the floor with a running single leg dropkick. Showing her mean streak she then placed her foot on the back of Henri’s head and pushed his face against the cage, Feeling the cold steel grazing his skin, Black struggled but eventually pulled himself out of the way, climbing back to his feet and blocking the Best In The World’s kick, punching her in the face with a quick jab that rocked Braddock. When Black charged in with a clothesline, Glory ducked it and connected a spinning backfist to the jaw and quickly planted him with the Beautiful Insanity ddt, but it wasn’t enough to keep Henri down. With this being the fourth match between them, the two competitors knew one another all too well. Glory especially seemed to have a counter for every move Henri tried, blocking the second of his triplet of german suplexes. The lack of rules inside the cage inspired her to get creative and take some liberties like hitting Henri in the jewels with a mule kick. And immediately after she used the cage to her advantage by launching Henri head first against it. grabbing him by the hair he smashed his face against it several time, dropping the Blackstar on her knees with a double knee backbreaker. Braddock tried to escape the cage, but Henri grabbed her leg and dragged her down. Glory landed on her face, quickly trying to get up to her feet. She barely made it to all fours when the Australian curb stomped her, hooking the leg for another near fall. In the final moments of the match there was not much room for technical wrestling and elaborate offense. Straight shots and head drops trying to knock the opponent down long enough to make the climb or leave the cage became all the rage, but no attempt even came close to give any of them enough advantage to win the match. Until Henri dropped Glory on her head with a brainbuster and, rather than trying to escape or make the cover, patiently waited until she rose up and charged for the Black Sacrament. Though dizzy, Glory was able to dodge it and push Black’s head against the cage with all the strength she was capable of, busting the Blackstar open. Wasting no time, she hooked her arms with his and set him up for The Glorification (Unprettier) and laid down on top of him for another cover. Shockingly, Henri kicked out but this didn’t discourage the British Bombshell, who tried to win the match escaping the cage. Henri reached her on top, right when she was stepping over the top of the cage. The two fought up there, Henri willing to take the fall to prevent Glory from leaving the cage, while Braddock was fighting to break free from his grip with one hand, using the other to hold onto the cage. As they kept trading blows, what Figgles and Amy were fearing would happen actually did, and the two fell on the wrong side of the cage, crashing on the waiting floor 10 feet below. The bell rang, but no announcement was made yet as the referee decided to take some time for himself to replay the final moments in his mind. And eventually he made the right call, declaring Glory Braddock as the winner of this match. WINNER: Glory Braddock BY: Cage Escape, 16:17 |
Amy Maynard: "What a battle! And Glory is the one who emerged victorious."
Sir Figgles: "I'm sure she will be happy to hear that when she wakes up..."
Sir Figgles: "I'm sure she will be happy to hear that when she wakes up..."
After the brutality of the cage match we see medics coming in to check on both wrestlers even though there’s still that angry fire in both of their eyes. But soon after the fact lumbering through the curtain is the Riot general manager with a stern look on his face, the Riot title over his shoulder and he’s bracing himself on that cane of his. But he finds a way to brace on it while also clapping the effort of his two wrestlers.
Vincent Moretti:
I always appreciate a good ol steel cage match. And you two didn’t disappoint. Well done, both of you.
He gives them a moment nodding his head as the steel structure is being raised up and his face turns stern and serious.
Vincent Moretti:
Over the last few weeks I’ve seen you two tear into each other in various different situations. We had a little kerfuffle involving interference to start to score someone an early advantage...we saw a rarity in that submission match that speaks for itself even if one of the participants doesn’t really want me bringing that up.
He flashes half of a joking smile when he states that but that smile vanishes very quick.
Vincent Moretti:
Then Henri to celebrate this victory decided to escalate things a little bit. A Last Man Standing match. The violence started to truly pick up between you two at that point when you beat the living hell out of one another. I’d argue the animosity might have TRULY started in the submission match but that Last Man Standing match just dumped gasoline in an inferno.
And he shuts his eyes for a brief moment.
Vincent Moretti:
And now tonight…
A calmness still there as he points at the rising cage structure going on.
Vincent Moretti:
You tore into one another in that steel cage. I felt both the desire to be the champion...and some of that animalistic desire tearing into one another. It’s what the cage is known to do with or without the hatred and again...I’m quite happy with the four matches, I really am. But we still don’t have an answer…to who claims...this…
Vincent taps the championship over his shoulder with the hand not supported by his cane and he nods his head.
Vincent Moretti:
So I’m making an executive decision. I apologize in advance Glory but I’m picking the deciding match…
Glory just regained conscious. Still loopy after the tremendous fall, she doesn't seem to have fully understood what Vincent just said, or to particularly care. Henri pushed back one of the paramedics attending him, getting up to his first main feet.
Vincent Moretti:
With all of these extreme environments you two have been put in with one another, we know that we still don’t have that answer. And everybody wants that answer to who is the better professional wrestler and who is number one in representing this brand. We’ve seen you batter one another in increasingly barbaric ways but I think a final test needs to be something a little different. Something a little more...pure.
He smirks to himself as he knew where this is going the entire time as he glances at the two in the ring.
Vincent Moretti:
I want to know who has the superior mind between you two. I think you’re equal in talent, you’re equal in doing whatever you have to in the ring. And you’re both truly deserving of what I have, really you are. But your mind...that can be the difference. So tomorrow night, concluding your best of five...it will be a Pure Wrestling match.
The decision takes both competitors by surprise, as they stare at the GM.
Vincent Moretti:
Two of the very best in the game in the ultimate test of minds. You have three rope breaks, use them wisely. No closed fists to the face. And a twenty count on the outside. Whoever comes up with the best strategy tomorrow or adjusts theirs on the fly...you’re representing the brand. You get to make the money. You get the fortune. You get a hell’va lot more fame than you already have. And you get to be the champion of this wonderful brand. Good luck both of you, I expect your best one more time.
And with that Vincent braces on his cane to turn on his heel and leave the two wrestlers to ponder this out.
We are now greeted by a very dark room where it seems like one half of the main event for night 1 is alone in his thoughts. The veteran wrestler Seth Iser, cast in his left hand and dressed in a black and gold variation of his ring attire, is just sitting all by himself with his arms crossed, his eyes closed and just thinking all to himself for a moment. The gleam of his golden knee brace is obvious as is the bandage over the wound on his head. But he does seem better equipped and rested than he was the week prior even if he’s still feeling the cage.
Seth Iser:
I knew it’d be you, Neal…
He states that as he has half of a smile coming across his face but he hasn’t even opened his eyes yet. There’s even a light chuckle that escapes from him.
Seth Iser:
I knew deep down in my gut when I put pen to paper to take part in this tournament...you and I would cross paths in the tournament. And when we didn’t meet early on...that feeling grew that it’d be here at the very end. And my intuition has served me well for years and here we are...at our D-Day in a very familiar situation with one another. Granted...I’m not getting involved in a match in some sort of premeditated plan…
There’s a devious smirk on his face as Seth finally opens his eyes. He’s not even moving from that seat. There’s a bit of maliciousness in his smirk though.
Seth Iser:
But here we are...in the finals of another tournament together. And you really want to be the one who gets his hand raised in the end and get yourself a little bit of payback compared to the last time. I know you do. You also want to quell any doubt from your own head both from me helping you advance in that previous tournament as well as the thought in your brain that you don’t want to be second place one more time…and our situation here in Chicago is a bit different than it was back in Vancouver. The lack of fans being an obvious first one, the second is...you don’t have the looming ghost of what I did to Izzy…
He lets out a slightly dark chuckle when he states that as fact.
Seth Iser:
And we have to beat one another twice tonight instead of once. I was looking forward to having more of a wrestling contest but...I see you’re really wanting to tap into going toward a dark place. From pure rules...to an Inferno match…
He spits the words inferno briefly as he shakes his head in disgust thinking about as he finally uncrosses his arms and the smirk is gone.
Seth Iser:
I haven’t been in an Inferno match in a long...long time. Yet I still remember my foot catching fire and the scare that put in me. It wasn’t...a pleasant feeling. It was more scary than painful considering how fast they dosed the flame but when you’re messing with one of the elements...a split second of hesitation literally burns you up in that case. And if that’s the path to victory...so be it.
He leans back on his chair for a moment as if he’s stretching briefly before standing up, his entire 6’5 frame being an intimidating sight.
Seth Iser:
But I’m no fool. I highly doubt it’ll end in two stages between us. One of us gets wrestled down and another one of us gets burned. And then we’ll see what either of us have left to see who remains standing. And all that time competing in a DeathMatch environment for you gives you this ability to sustain a ridiculous amount of punishment. I know that as a fact...that’s the very first thing they notice about you Neal. It doesn’t matter the kind of situation around you…
There’s a calmness in Seth’s tone as he states that.
Seth Iser:
But Neal...you’re not the only one who has that kind of experience. You might know but for the unaware...when I was a young man, I went to Japan. It was a wonderful time to learn for me as a wrestler but it was also a constant test of survival being in a foriegn country while barely speaking the language and surviving paycheck to paycheck while we did absolutely brutal things to one another. One night it was the usual barbed wire episode...the next? An entire bed of nails…
He recounts this without any emotion creeping into his voice though he lowers his head slightly.
Seth Iser:
It’s a will to survive above anything else...and as much as I don’t really want to let certain things come out and play...considering our circumstances and the fact that you willingly introduced fire into our mix...I don’t see much of a choice in the matter. I apologize to the damage I’m going to do to your career ahead of time, Neal. But you’re still blessed with the gift of youth...and I know that many more opportunities like this WILL come your way. That’s a fact given your god given talent and how young you still are in the industry. You’re nowhere near your full potential...and that’s a scary proposition for a number of us to think about…
But the smirk is back in place on the veteran.
Seth Iser:
You already know what I’m willing to do within the confines of the rules of wrestling. I’ll spare you that speech...but I’m not so sure you’re aware of what I’m capable of when the rules are gone. The actual acts of cruelty I’m capable of just to get to where I need to be and why? I’m overdue for World Championship number 3. The fact that I only have two to my name at this point in my career...infuriates me.
The sneer is apparent as now some of that anger is coming in.
Seth Iser:
Someone of my caliber...for all the championships I’ve won in my thirties, I know for a fact I’ve underachieved given what I’ve done for the sport. I pissed most of my twenties away because I couldn’t get out of my own way. And I’m glad so many people have learned from THAT mistake of mine...and don’t go down that path. But one more time Neal...I am truly desperate to do what I need to in order to feel what it’s like to be the man in professional wrestling again.
There’s that small look of vulnerability as his eyes are desperate for just that fleeting moment before the sneer comes back in.
Seth Iser:
I need to be able to look myself in the mirror Neal...and know I gave everything I had using every trick of the trade to get that chance because someone of my caliber should be listed with some of the greats far more frequently than it already is and I know not many of them have won a World title past a certain age. And I feel that clock ticking down...I don’t have your blessing of youth after all. I gave that up for the high of drugs and spent way too much time after the fact proving I was clean.
And finally he lets out a sigh.
Seth Iser:
And above all else: I need to see the light in my daughter’s eyes...when her father comes home World Champion. That would mean more than anything else in this world. And I’d kill an entire civilization and more if that’s what it took to make her smile and bring more light in her eyes. I want to show her that you work hard enough and do what you need to do...you can accomplish great things. So Neal...this isn’t personal on my end. I’m prepared as if it might be on yours considering the stunt I pulled...but…
A sneer etched on his face, full of grit and determination.
Seth Iser:
I’m going to have to give you the one beating even the ultra durable Neal Durden can’t get up from. And there won’t be a god damned thing you, your loved ones, any fans, or anybody else in this company can do to stop me. All of this...to finally get on the path to call myself a World Champion one more time…By Any Means Necessary.
And with that ending speech Seth lumbers off as he’s said his piece.
Battle For The Briefcase Match
Final: Three Stages Of Hell
Stage 1: Pure Rules
Stage 2: Inferno Match
Stage 3: Last Man Standing
Neal Durden VS Seth IserFinal: Three Stages Of Hell
Stage 1: Pure Rules
Stage 2: Inferno Match
Stage 3: Last Man Standing
Peyton Holland: "It's the final of the Battle For The Briefcase. Seth Iser and Neal Durden have gone through three matches in the past weeks, three authentic wars. All for a granted title shot at any MWE championship and the power to overrule the General Managers decisions and change matches to their own likings." Amy Maynard: "In both the previous occasions the winner of the tournament successfully cashed in to become World Champions. Nessa Wall in 2018, Melissa Reeves last year they both capitalized to obtain the company’s greatest prize.” Sir Figgles: “Of course they did. Who would go through all this to cash in on the Junior Heavyweight championship? Ambra Monroe: “You never know what goes through a wrestler’s mind, or how they value different titles. Remember how Kenzie Garrett stated in multiple occasions how she considered the Chicago Way Championship her world title? By winning the Red Line tournament she could have challenged for any title, and she choose that one.” Sir Figgles: “That’s because she’s nuts.” The match started with the referee calling the two contenders in the middle of the ring to explain them the rules of a pure match. Only three rope breaks for each of them, no closed fists to the face and a twenty count if they end up on the outside. As the bell rang, Seth went immediately to lock horns with the Welshman, asserting his greater strength to force Neal in the corner. There he started dishing out his dose of punishment, at first with some forearm to the face, then switching to open handed chops to the chest. Neal’s chest immediately turned bright red, those heavy blows knocking the wind off his chest. After five of those landed, Durden was able to time himself and duck the sixth, starting his own set of offense with some rapid fire punches to the sides of the big man, forcing him to back down toward the centre of the ring. A spinning backfist rocked Seth and Neal quickly hit the ropes to struck him from behind. Iser caught him for a sidewalk slam but the Anarchist was able to turn it into a satellite ddt, planting the veteran on his head and trying to score an early pinfall which obviously saw Seth kicking out before the two. Peyton Holland: “A lot of people were expecting Iser to pick some violent stipulations, a field he proved to thrive in throughout this tournament. Instead he opted for a Pure Wrestling match.” Ambra Monroe: “I’m pretty sure it was a way to throw off Neal, As you said, people were expecting something wicked from the veteran, but he can be just as dangerous within rules as he is when they are thrown out of the window.” Seth was back in control, wearing down the opponent with hard european uppercuts before catching him with a stun gun as he rebounded back from an irish whip, dropping him neck first on the top rope. Neal stumbled back right into a devastating discus lariat from Seth who ruthlessly began to stomp the opponent to the ground, not giving him the opportunity to get up to his feet. To save himself from more punishment, Neal rolled out of the ring and the official began to count him out. Amy Maynard: “Remember, unlike the standard matches there’s a twenty count in place under the pure rules.” Sir Figgles: “Might as well say there’s no count out. If you can’t get back in the ring before the twenty, it’s because you’re dead.” Ambra Monroe: “You might be right, but a twenty count gives one more time to recover.” Peyton Holland: “Or to try hurt your opponent, which is what Seth is trying to do.” Iser immediately rolled out and clubbed Neal from behind, smashing his face on the apron. Durden quickly reacted with a forearm to the jaw but his strike lacked the strength necessary to actually harm the veteran, who hit a headbutt and whipped him against the barricade. The referee reached nine when Seth picked Neal up from the floor and set him up for a running powerbomb, aiming at the ring post. Out of the blue the Welsh was able to switch his bodyweight and turn it into a headscissors that sent Iser head first against the steel. Peyton Holland: “Great counter from Neal!” Amy Maynard: “Seth got lucky the impact didn’t bust him open…” Ambra Monroe: “True, but even if it didn’t, he still has to hurry up if he doesn’t want to lose this fall.” Neal was back in the ring, the referee just shouted Sixteen on top of his lungs and Seth was only now starting to stir up. He slowly got back to his feet, looking dizzy after the close encounter with the steel post. At nineteen, just in the nick of time, the big man slid back in the ring where he was met by a stomp to the head from Neal. The Welshman pulled the opponent up and delivered a fast flurry of kicks ending his sequence with the Disaster Knee (ripcord knee strike), knocking Seth down and making the cover. The veteran wisely spent the first rope break by resting his foot on the rope. Amy Maynard: "How important is to administer the rope breaks, considering you only have three?" Sir Figgles: "It's definitely a big part of the strategy. You don't want to waste them too early and find yourself without any left in case of a submission." As the match went on, Seth forced Neal's hand, making the Welsh spend two rope breaks to break free from the sharpshooter and the figure four leglock. The veteran smiled, watching the opponent holding his lower back in pain. Durden picked himself up, trying to keep Seth at distance with an elbow to the face. Iser was barely affected by it and quickly grabbed the opponent's arm, twisting it behind his back and lifted him with a hammerlock suplex. And again Seth began pummeling the opponent with more uppercuts, whipping Neal in the corner and following up with a big splash. He then bent Neal's arm around the rope, yanking and pulling it for an illegal submission. Peyton Holland: "Iser seems to be the have a clear plan in mind" Amy Maynard: "We saw him using the Dream Eater before, that's probably what he's working his way to." Seth kept working the arm not only with submission holds but moves like a shoulder breaker as well. Neal, was taking a lot of punishment but he was still in this match, fighting back and rocking Seth with a roaring elbow after a quick flurry of strikes. The Anarchist dashed to the ropes and went for a running crossbody, but Seth caught him in mid-air and dropped him down with the Pillar Of Truth. Neal kicked out in two, raising his right shoulder. Seth quickly grabbed it and locked him in another armbar, putting more pressure on his shoulder. Instinctively Neal reached the near ropes with his foot, breaking up the submission. Ambra Monroe: "And that's the third. Durden is now out of rope breaks." Neal nodded as the referee reminded him that he had no rope breaks left. The Anarchist nodded his head before charging at Seth with a shotgun dropkick that knocked the veteran against the ropes. As he bounced back, Neal used a drop toe hold takedown to trip him over and hang him on the middle rope. Taking a short run to the ropes on the opposite side, Neal swung himself through the ropes and kicked Seth in the face with a tiger feint kick, jumping right into a pinning predicament with a springboard moonsault. The pace picked up now that the Anarchist had more space and freedom to create with his innovative style of offense. A springboard roundhouse kick knocked down the veteran, the standing corkscrew moonsault almost gave the Welsh the win in this first fall, but Seth kicked out right before the three. Neal then went immediately for the leg, locking in his patented kneebar that saw Seth quickly dragging himself toward the rope before the excruciating hold would do too much damage. He was almost there when Neal rolled over and pulled him further away from them. Peyton Holland: "It's back to square one for Seth, will he be able to reach the ropes a second time?" Slowly Iser began crawling toward salvation, a grimace of pain painted on his face as he extended his arm to reach the ropes… And finally grabbing them. Neal immediately let him go and stepped back, waiting for Seth to pick himself up and then charged at him for a jumping knee to the face. Wrestling’s Greatest Mind took a step forward anticipating his intention and caught him in mid air, slamming him down on his knee with the Icebreaker. Both competitors groaned in pain, Neal arching his back as he rolled toward the center of the ring, Seth clutching his knee and crawling to the opponent. Peyton Holland: “This is it, the Dream Eater is locked in!” Ambra Monroe: “Neal’s only chance is to wrestle his way out of it now, hold on until he finds a way to counter the submission.” Sir Figgles: “Or just give up quickly. Be smart kid, you have to wrestle an inferno and a last man standing match next, don’t play the hero, it’s not worth it. Just tap out and focus on the next stages.” Neal instead tried to escape the submission, struggling through the pain attempting to find a weak spot in Seth’s perfectly executed Rings Of Saturn. And with great effort he managed to roll the big man on the mat, pinning his shoulders on the canvas. The veteran kicked out and waited until Neal got up to his feet, landing a couple of uppercuts before knocking down the Welshman with a punch straight to the heart, using the casted hand to deliver it for greater impact. Durden went down like a ton of brick, Seth dropped down into a lateral press hooking the leg and picking up the win in this first fall. Rumchata Ayano: “The winner of the first stage, SETH ISEEEEER!” Amy Maynard: “Once again the cast played a big role in Seth’s win!” Ambra Monroe: “And now the veteran is leading one to none. The pressure is all on Neal, who has to win both the next two falls to win the tournament and the briefcase.” Peyton Holland: “Things are about to get hot now. It’s time for the second Inferno match in the company history, a stipulation Neal choose.” Sir Figgles: “Am I the only one believing this is an odd choice from Neal? He’s an high flyer, the ropes are a second home to him, why did he give up on the opportunity to use them?” Amy Maynard: “I’m sure he had his reason for this choice. Anyway, the flames are high already, let’s go back inside the ring.” Inside a ring of fire, in the most literal way, Neal and Seth were ready to dance for the second of the three stages of hell. If Seth had, undoubtedly, the psychological advantage having Neal forced to win this and the next fall, the left leg that was locked in the Anarchist’s knee bar seemed to be bothering him, making his movements even slower. Durden presented some breathing issues at first, still feeling that casted punch to the chest. But nonetheless he kept moving quickly around the bigger man, connecting a few kicks to the flanks. One of them got blocked by Seth who then took Neal down with a dragon screw leg whip, dropping an elbow on the high flier from Cardiff and finding nothing but the canvas as Neal rolled out of the way, getting dangerously close to the fire. He popped back to his feet, sending Seth missing with the right hook as he ducked it and followed with a reverse side kick to the stomach, and a Pele kick to push Iser back a couple of feet. Seth stopped inches away from the fire, Neal charged to push him against them but he caught him once again with another Icebreaker. He dragged the hurting opponent up to his feet, ready to launch him into the fire without a second thought. Neal read his intentions and, as soon as Seth picked him up, placed his head under his bearded chin and dropped on his knees, stunning him with a jawbreaker. Durden quickly went for a dropkick but Iser managed to take a step to the side and avoid getting pushed toward the flames, quickly moving back in the middle of the ring, out of the dangerous zone. Peyton Holland: “One move, even the most basic like a dropkick has the potential of being the resolutive one. That’s how dangerous this match can be.” Ambra Monroe: “We saw it back at Dark Web II when the former Cloud Gate champion Anastasia Starling defended her title against Gavin Grimes. You can’t afford to make even the slightest mistake.” Both competitors knew it, keeping themselves away from the flames as they traded punches and kicks. Seth was hitting hard like a hammer, every blow rocking Durden and making him falter. But the Anarchist kept coming back, and eventually his quick and precise strikes were doing a number on the grizzled veteran, standing dazed and helpless as Neal knocked him down with an Enziguri. He instantly regretted it, as dragging now the heavier opponent close to the fire would be a challenge. He picked Seth up then, getting hit by a headbutt from the towering West Virginian who tried to whip Neal against the ropes. The Anarchist was quick to slide down and prevent himself from getting burned, the flames barely grazing the sole of his boots. Amy Maynard: “This one was so close.” Ambra Monroe: “Neal’s quick reflexes might just have saved him here.” They went back and forth for a couple more minutes, and eventually it was Seth appearing to be in full control. After hitting a running boot to the face, Iser picked up Neal from the ground and lifted him over his shoulder, walking toward the ropes. Neal slipped away, landing behind Seth’s back and quickly wrapped his arms around his waist, desperately pushing him against the ropes. The referee immediately called for the bell. Rumchata Ayano: “The winner of the second stage, NEAAAAAALL DURDEEEEEN!!” Amy Maynard: “Look at Seth’s arm! The cast caught fire!” Peyton Holland: “HOLY SHIT!” Sir Figgles: “Hahaha this is great!” Ambra Monroe: “Looks like the final stage is already underway” As soon as the bell rang, Seth turned around, watching his arm in flames (at least the cast was) and cursed, charging at Neal and hitting him with a flaming lariat! Durden was down, writhing in pain while Seth literally ripped the cast from his arm, before it would burn him. And he did it while barking at the referee to count Neal down, which he did. At six, the welsh made it back to his feet and the match still went on. Visibly tired and short of breath, especially Neal whose asthma symptoms started to show, the two traded slow strikes in the middle of the ring. Seth eventually came out on top from this exchange, hitting three consecutive quick jabs and following with a discus clothesline. Durden was down once again, but before the referee could even start to count him, Seth dragged him back to his feet and hit him with another flurry of uppercuts, sending Neal against the ropes with an european uppercut. Durden ducked the clothesline and bounced back from the opposite side, turning Iser’s attempt of a backbreaker into a ddt. Amy Maynard: “Here come the weapons…” Ambra Monroe: “In this particular phase of the match, with both competitors so tired after going to war for almost thirty minutes, introducing a chair like Neal is doing could definitely be the turning point of the match. For better or for worse.” Neal smacked it across Seth’s back as the veteran was starting to get back to his feet. And another time for good measure. Neal then toyed with the chair in his hands, waiting until Seth got up to a vertical base and drove the edge of the chair in his mid section. The impact doubled Seth over and Neal followed with another shot to the head, knocking down Seth. While the referee started to count, the Welshman left the ring once again to grab more weapons. Chairs, mostly, and a table he placed in the corner. When Seth rose back to his feet at seven, Neal went back on the attack, aiming at the head with another chair shot. Seth this time blocked the blow, grabbing the chair with both hands and throwing it into the stands. Sir Figgles: “We’re lucky there are no fans in the arena, or Elsa would be buried in lawsuits before tomorrow.” A headbutt caught Neal on the bridge of the nose, causing him to stumble backwards. With a big front kick, Seth doubled the opponent over and lifted him over his shoulders for a powerbomb through the table that Neal himself placed in the corner. To make sure the Anarchist didn’t get up, Seth threw all the chairs he could find at him, literally burying him under a pile of chairs. And then he charged with a low dropkick to the chairs, squashing Durden underneath them, To beat the count the Anarchist had to roll out of the ring, literally hanging on the apron to keep himself on his own legs. Seth reached him outside to keep pressure on him. He threw Durden against the steel steps but at the very last moment the agile young man jumped over the obstacle, landing on the other side. As Seth charged at him, the resourceful Neal kicked the steps into Iser’s knees, tripping him and causing the big man to fall face first on the unforgiving steel. Climbing on the apron, Durden went for a double footstomp but his opponent moved out of the way at the last moment. With an athletic forward roll Neal was quickly back on his feet, until Seth dropped him on the apron with a powerbomb. Neal was able to slide back in the ring As the referee started to count. Iser in the meantime grabbed the lower half of the steps and launched it inside the ring, with Neal rolling out of the trajectory and grabbing the ropes to pick himself up, barely beating the count. Seth was ready to end the match, lifting Neal for a spinebuster on the steps but Durden held onto him, driving him down with him, planting Iser’s face on the steps. Ambra Monroe: “Unbelievable counter by Neal!” Amy Maynard: “It’s hard to tell who got the worst in this situation…” The referee started counting both men, reaching five with none of them showing any sign of life. Then, slowly, a bloodied Seth began crawling to the ropes, while Neal tried to push him back to his feet using the steps as a support. Sir Figgles: “Time is ticking boys, get your ass up!” At eight Seth grabbed the bottom rope and was beginning to pick himself up. Neal was on all fours, needing that extra effort to get back to a vertical base and possibly win the match. But he fell back flat on his chest, exhausted as the official screamed “nine”. Amy Maynard: “Seth is almost there…” Peyton Holland: “There’s not enough time, he’s not going to make it!” Pey’s call was correct, the referee called the ten and Seth still wasn’t up to his feet. And to clear any doubt, he collapsed back to the floor right after. Sir Figgles: “Awkward…” Ambra Monroe: “Both men are down, none of them seems able to continue… I guess this is a draw?” Amy Maynard: “How.. how can it be a draw? What does this mean for the briefcase? Who’s holding it?” Peyton Holland: “That’s a lot of questions our General Managers will have to answer for..” WINNER: Draw BY: Double KO, 36:27 |
Neal and Seth slowly rise to their feet, only now that hearing about the decision. None of them looks particularly enthusiast of the outcome, staring daggers at one another and seemingly ready to go back at it, despite barely being able to stand after going to war for almost forty minutes. The Millennium General Manager Elsa McCarthy comes to cool off their jets, bringing a couple of doctors with her and sending them to check on the two competitors before eventually authorizing the resume of the fight. There's a look of concern on the young GM face for two of her top talents' conditions. After a quick examination on the spot, the doctors advise against clearing the two competitors and, with a sigh of relief, Elsa officially ended the match, announcing Neal and Seth as co-holders of the Briefcase.
Peyton Holland:
Well then, that settle it. Looks like there will be two briefcases around, not one.
Amy Maynard:
That doesn't bode well for whoever between CCJ and Kelsey will emerge victorious from tomorrow's main event.
Ambra Monroe:
Or for any other champion... It's definitely an interesting situation that's developing here. And with yet another twist, night one is over. Tune in tomorrow for another dose of action with an exciting night two of By Any Means. Goodnight, ladies and gentlemen!
Peyton Holland:
Well then, that settle it. Looks like there will be two briefcases around, not one.
Amy Maynard:
That doesn't bode well for whoever between CCJ and Kelsey will emerge victorious from tomorrow's main event.
Ambra Monroe:
Or for any other champion... It's definitely an interesting situation that's developing here. And with yet another twist, night one is over. Tune in tomorrow for another dose of action with an exciting night two of By Any Means. Goodnight, ladies and gentlemen!