Post by gvb on Dec 8, 2020 16:24:22 GMT -6
Riot in Illinois #15
Live from Enterprise Arena in Chicago, IL
Sunday, December 6th, 2020
Backstage at Millennium's Riot event. We see Luna Smith accompanying Dean while wearing a powder pink sweater and some high waisted distressed white jeans, some brand new open toed heel shoes and flashing some new jewellery on her fingers, her wrist and neck. All matching pieces, well-kept, but played second fiddle to her Junior Heavyweight Championship she had on her shoulder. Luna had even gone for a luxu Luna had even gone for a luxury looking bandage on her ankle tonight, and a deep purple crutch to use to walk. Dean, on the other-hand, was dressed to compete
Luna Smith:
Aren't you cold?
Luna rubs her hands together as she's not exactly used to the chicago weather.
Luna Smith:
You might sell more shirts if you actually wear them when you walk out there. Or wear them for the whole match.
Dean waves off wearing a shirt for tonight, and ties his laces up for the match ahead.
Dean Smith:
I'm good. Too restrictive. When you're going up against someone like Newman, you need to be able to wind up and punch through the big guy.
Luna continues to feel the cold, and brings her shoulders in a little.
Luna Smith:
Eh, I don't think Millennium would dare to put him against me. When I'm back in fighting shape. Try win it quickly though, since I want to get back home to where it's warm.
Dean Smith:
Well that would be good. After that tag match and that low blow end.
Which provokes Luna to clench her jaw, possibly to hold her tongue, as Dean continues.
Dean Smith:
That would put me back towards fighting for the Riot Title in the new year.
Luna Smith:
What that tag match shows is you're too good, those two needed an edge to get some cheap, blah win. Be glad we're done with them. Maybe they'll fight for that title you used to hold.
Which gives Luna an idea and she brings up her ever-growing task list for her hired help to deal with, as Dean tapes and tears off his wrist tape.
Luna Smith:
Suggest to management they do a match between Stalker Creep vs Low Blow Bimbo to see whoever should get beat up by Pierce Manning.
Dean Smith:
You're suggesting Millie's favourite wrestler?
Luna's brow shoots up as if she can't believe he said that.
Luna Smith:
I'm her favourite wrestler
Dean Smith:
Don't know about that.
Luna Smith:
She's been winning with MY finishing move. Maybe you should try it against Newman and win.
Dean Smith:
Nah, I'm good with tried and true MD. In fact, maybe Millie will use it next, and I'll be her favourite Millennium wrestler just like I'm Bree's
Luna Smith:
Bree' Obvi picks me too. I'm the only one holding gold who's not in the Academy.
She opens her arm a little to move the title a little closer with a look that says how obvious it is he's wrong.
Dean Smith:
Bree will like me more after tonight. You know her history with the Golden Era, She'll probably even pick me up a steak wrap after.
Dean says as he finally stands up, a sixth sense his match was about to begin and starts walking. Luna, being Luna, chimes in to get the last word.
Luna Smith:
Yeah, well, wait until she sees my record-breaking celebration.
Singles Match
Dean Smith VS Neil NewmanDean and Neil circled the ring, looking for an opening to start the offense. Newman ducked Smith’s haymaker and caught him with a punch to the liver. Fearing, and rightfully so, the former Invictus champion’s striking ability, the Glorious Golden Era member kept out of Dean’s reach by landing quick kicks and the occasional punch. It worked nicely for a while, but eventually Smith was able to block one of those kicks and, with a dragon screw leg whip, took the former Tag Team champion down. Dean mounted on top of Neil and dropped some forearms strikes to his face. Five of them landed, before Dean dragged the opponent back to his feet and delivered four back to back uppercuts followed by a rock bottom, slamming Newman onto the canvas. Dean hooked the leg and made the cover, obtaining the first near fall of the match. Dean’s lariat was ducked by Neil who quickly caught the former champion with a sitout rear mat slam. For several minutes Newman stays in control, throwing Dean around with a series of suplexes. Gutwrench, a cobra clutch variation and the innovative version of a bridging leg hook belly to belly that almost kept Smith down for the three. When Dean picked himself up, Neil wrapped his arms around his neck and jumped, bringing both knees to Dean’s face with a double knee lift. The champion was down once again, this time Newman performed an elbow drop before making another cover, but once again Smith kicked out in two. Newman attacked with a clothesline, countered with a spike ddt by Smith who then turned Neil inside out with a clothesline of his own as soon as he got up to his feet. Dean was on fire, slamming Newman’s face into the canvas and adding insult to injury with some trash talk, taunting him to get up to his feet before sending him flat on his back with a straight punch. Smith walked to the corner and signaled to the fans that it was time for the Mean Dean, his patented diving knee strike that gave him so many wins in the past. Perched on the top rope, he waited until Neal stood up to his feet and jumped. Newman jumped as well, brilliantly countering the move with a dropkick, catching Smith right on the knee. More than the dropkick itself it was the landing that hurt Dean the most, tweaking the ankle as he touched the mat. And Newman wasted no time, grabbing that foot and twisting it in a vicious ankle lock. Smith decided to live to fight another day, quickly tapping out to avoid further damage. WINNER: Neil Newman BY: Submission (Ankle Lock), 9:33 |
Pre-recorded…
It is dimly lit, if not downright dark, and we can barely make out the silhouettes of a furnace and burners of what would be a boiler room. The hard concrete floor and walls are dirty and dingy. This is an odd place to find a beautiful wealthy woman used to all of the luxuries of life and yet that is where we find Summer Collins. One half of the tag team known as Fabulous is dressed in a forest green long sleeve dress with a hemline that stops just at the knee, a dress so tight that it hugs her every curve.
Summer Collins:
Khali Washington III...I wonder if Khali Washington one and two were as repugnant as you? On Riot, you and I square off, just as my tag team partner Jessica faces your pal and fellow bad BOY...emphasis on boy...Dre Angelo. Things between us have certainly escalated a great deal in the past several weeks and as a businesswoman I truly do hate that it came to that. Fact is that you and I could have gotten along great. I understand better than anyone else that this industry is a business, it is a cutthroat business, and that when it comes to business you do whatever it takes to succeed. And despite what has gone on between our two teams, I can honestly say that I respect that about you. I respect that you are willing to do whatever it takes to get what you want. Unfortunately there’s two problems with that.
She holds up one finger.
Summer Collins:
Number one, I am smarter than you. I know more dirty tricks than you. You know how they say that you know “every dirty trick in the book”? Well my family wrote the damn book. I have pulled my punches out of respect for my friend, Jessica. But you have disrespected us and you have hurt her, so now the gloves are coming off.
And just then Jessica Lasiewicz emerges from the shadows. She is not dressed as “Fabulous” as her tag team partner, instead she is wearing torn denim jeans, black boots, and a white t-shirt. She is wearing a black hooded leather jacket. The hood is pulled up over her head but we can still see the intensity and rage in her eyes.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
Summer and I always love a good fight. We have no problem battling the best tag teams in the world, because we know how good we are, and if someone is able to beat us, if someone is able to put us down, then we will gladly admit we were beaten by the better team. But you have not been able to put us down legitimately. You have had to use underhanded tactics, you have had to resort to showing your true colors as simple thugs in order to get ahead of Fabulous. Up until now my moral code as The Archangel has forced me to hold back. The Archangel wants to do this the right way, The Archangel wants to bring justice.
Lasiewicz shakes her head.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
But you’re no longer speaking to The Archangel, you are speaking to the devil herself. You have provoked me to the point where I will throw my moral compass out the window. And you, Dre, are going to be the first example. You will be the first casualty of my reign of terror. You and your Bad Boys…
Summer Collins:
...emphasis on boys…
Jessica Lasiewicz:
...you always use the numbers game to your advantage. So the obvious solution to the problem is that I cripple your sorry asses. If you cannot walk, if you cannot move your arms, or hell, better yet if you cannot even feel a god damn thing from your neck down then you will have been thoroughly eliminated from the equation. One less bad boy to worry about, one less thug to get in our way.
The Archangel points at her eyes.
Jessica Lasiewicz:
Look into these eyes, look at the hate in these eyes and know that there will be no regret and no remorse felt about what I do to you.
Collins chuckles.
Summer Collins:
Khali, Dre, you were warned. You were warned time and time again. This is all your fault. Yes, I am a businesswoman. And I agree with you, you do whatever it takes to get what you want in this business. You have done whatever it took to get what you wanted. So do you honestly believe that I will feel bad about what Jessica may potentially do to Dre? No, I won’t give a damn whatsoever. And Khali, you had just better hope that Jessica doesn’t decide to get involved in our match tonight, because if she does then I will just sit back and watch what she does to you as well. And trust me when I say that it will not be absolutely FABULOUS!
Singles Match
Khali Washington III VS Summer CollinsAfter winning his match against Dean Smith, Neil stayed at ringside to make sure none of the Bad Boyz would interfere in his wife’s match. Summer started off with some wonderful chain wrestling mixed with quick strikes to keep KW3 on the mat where she could control him and avoid his power moves. She couldn’t keep him down much longer though, Khali managed to get up on his feet and lift Summer, dropping her on the mat with a back suplex. Then he began with his unrelenting attack, forcing Collins in the corner with some hard chops. He was forced to step back by the referee, determined to enforce the rules well aware of the Bad Boyz’ tendency to bend them. Summer came out of the corner with a renewed fire, unleashing a flurry of strikes to Khali. He interrupted the onslaught with a headbutt and followed with the State Of Emergency discus clothesline, almost taking Summer’s head off. The next minutes were about the same as the opening moments, with Summer keeping the initiative for the longest part, even though Khali did the most damage connecting few but very effective power moves. A twisting spinebuster planted Collins on the mat, defenseless against Khali’s hard stomps. The member of the Bad Boyz whipped her against the corner and squashed her with a running splash. He set her up on the top rope and went for a stalling superplex, taunting the fans and Neil while he held Summer upside down, before falling backwards and driving her on the canvas. He made a cocky cover, putting little to no pressure on the woman’s body and thus making it much easier for her to kick out from the pinning predicament. Newman kept cheering on her wife, supporting her in this moment of difficulty and sometimes even suggesting what she should do next. With him backing her up, Summer was able to turn the tides, doubling Washington over with a back kick to the stomach and dropping him with a scissors kick. She locked him into an armbar, looking to get a submission win but Washington powered out, lifting her in a one arm powerbomb and slamming her violently into the mat. He stalked the opponent, waiting for her to get up and caught her from behind in a full nelson. Collins was able to sleep away, switching position and wrapping her arms around Khali’s head in a sleeper hold, setting him up for the Summer’s End (sleeper hold neckbreaker). KW3 kicked out and blocked Summer’s attempt at applying the Million Dollar Dream submission. He whipped her against the corner, ducking her clothesline attempt and srpinting against the ropes as well, gaining some speed to launch himself with his Drive-By Spear, picking up the win. WINNER: Khali Washington III BY: Pinfall (Drive By Spear), 8:56 |
Duke Andrews:
As I sit here, reflecting on everything that took place over the last few days, it hit me that I was too blind to see what was transpiring right behind my own back.
The scene draws in, a single yellow light hanging in a dark room. Duke Andrews perched in an old beat down red leather chair with his foot up on something that’s hidden in the shadow. The MWE tag team title hanging over the back of the chair, behind his shoulder reflecting the light back towards the camera.
Duke Andrews:
I should’ve seen everything happening. It was hidden in plain sight and maybe, just maybe I was jaded in my own hatred towards that group that I ignored the signs. I ignored the fact that when Dusty ran through REDD that Constantine didn’t even flinch to help his so called friend. I ignored the fact that when I was getting beat down in the middle of the ring by Dread and Dusty that he was no where to be seen. All for what? A fucking dollar?
A long exhale comes from his lips. A hint of the cold air being mixed with his warm breath is visible now. He reached up and adjusted the black Carhartt hat on his head.
Duke Andrews:
Yet, in the grand scheme of this all, Seth Iser was ninety hundred percent right. Seth, you mentioned that you understood my actions almost two years ago. I mean, how could someone who stood in the wedding between Christian Michaels and Kelsey Spencer just snap and turn like that. But you got it. You understood it. Which is why you always stood idly by. But then you thought that I just kind of fell back in place like a soldier. You thought that I went back to following the leader. The problem is you couldn’t be further from the truth. The American Pain Experience was all mine. I started that motherfucker. I created the baddest group in MWE history. The way we ran through everyone that stepped in our way, was mine. I was the one that pitched the idea to Chris. I was the one that attached Redd. I was the one that recruited Alan. I, me, my fucking self, was the one that brought in Hammerstein. And I was the one that made the executive decision to put him out on the curb because he didn’t follow our vision.
The pain can be heard in Duke’s voice as he continues to stare towards the floor. He looks down towards his beat down boot as he takes a long breath.
Duke Andrews:
But what did that get me? Left for dead and my partner turning and chasing a dollar? I should’ve known. Hell Seth, you can say you told me so. But as I sit here before Riot I have one of my closest friends who is in limbo. And I don’t blame him if he wants to walk over and play slap dick with Devin, Chris and Dusty. They’re going to offer him a couple more dollars in his payouts. That’s the devil he needs to sort out. I know tonight he will be where he needs to be, and after that, that’s on him and his consciousness.
One last deep breath as Duke finally looks up towards the camera.
Duke Andrews:
Chris, you know you fucked up. But you couldn’t have done it at a better time for yourself. You know that my plate is full. But the good news for me is that it’s quickly going to be empty. Mark my words, when I finish Dread at Coup De Grâce, you’re a marked man. It doesn’t matter who I have to go through. It doesn’t matter who’s on my side.
A soft smirk forms on Duke's lips as he continues to stare into the camera.
Duke Andrews:
You know the old saying, for every action there’s an equal reaction. This is what you’re getting. And I’m shocked you didn’t seem to think this would work. I know the only thing on your mind is money, but I’ve got more than enough to live the rest of my life. I’ve earned my fair share in this business. I’ve sold more t-shirts than I could’ve ever imagined. I’ve trained more kids than I could have realized when I stepped foot in this business. Money isn’t my end all be all. And you knew that. Yet you still thought this was the new golden ticket. Mark my words Chris, you’ll face your consequences sooner than you will ever want. I promise you I will be there and you will pay the reaper.
As Duke was about to walk away he comes face to face with the other half of the MWE tag team champions holding the belt over his shoulder. Alan Envy and Duke stare each other down...as Envy quietly speaks.
Alan Envy:
First off, it is about the money. Yet it's about integrity first. I have a responsibility as your friend, hell dude your brother, to be there in your corner when we get booked as a tag team. When it comes to APE and proving that we are the absolute best tag team in the world….money can take a backseat. I'm not saying I will be against or with Chris I haven't made my mind up. But tonight...Duke Andrews and Alan Envy hold court.
Envy extends his hand out towards Duke. Duke looks at Alan’s hand and back up at Alan.
Duke Andrews:
I’m not going to beg you to stay. I’m not going to give you the promise of all the money in the world. I’m not promising you anything besides knowing that I have your back no matter what and that these titles stay where they belong. Tonight, that’s the only focus. Tonight, is the end all be all as far as I’m concerned. Coupe De Grâce can take a breather until after tonight.
Envy nods as he grips Duke's hand. He then releases and slaps him on the chest as he walks out of view
Tag Team Match
Asher Miles & Leia LeBeau VS Nina & Legion
What do these people have in common? All of them, for different reasons, have their claims on Luna’s Junior Heavyweight championships, and at Coup De Grâce they will take on the Star Of The Night in a Five-Way match. But tonight was tag team action, with Leia LeBeau teaming with the man who tried to end hers and her boyfriend’s career (although it would appear that Donnie and Asher are on good terms now) against Nina and Legion. The hometown girl walked to the ring carrying a bag with her, one Leia remembered oh too well. The Showgirl said that she won’t compete unless with Jackie (Nina’s pet snake) at ringside. The referee agreed with LeBeau and demanded that the Chicago born would get rid of the bag. Finally Camri Hayre, Ninaìs fiancée and former interviewer for the company walked to the ring and took Jackie with her. Finally, five minutes after the four competitors made their entrance, the match could start. And it started with Asher and Legion trading blows, The Antares making a dash to the ropes and taking the woman down with a sling blade. Miles and LeBeau worked surprisingly well together, more so considering the history between them. Legion found herself often outnumbered, unable to reach her partner on the opposite side of the ring. Leia’s corner foot choke left Legion on her knees, gasping for air. Leia kicked her in the face and gave the tag to Miles, who entered the ring and tried to end Legion with his Antares punt kick. Nina saved her partner by dragging Legion out of the ring. She couldn’t save herself from Asher’s over the top rope senton, even though Miles’ landing wasn’t the most pleasant either. Legion recovered before the young man and picked him up, grabbing a hold of his hair and slamming his face on the ring post. And she did it a second time for good measure before she rolled him back inside the ring and made a cover off the springboard moonsault. Asher needed a tag, desperately. But to reach his corner he had to escape Nina’s tight grip. The Viper kept him grounded, tying him up like a pretzel and preventing him from making the tag. A corkscrew neckbreaker from Nina gave her a very close count and needed Leia to step in and save Asher. The match continued with the Snakebite in full control until the Antares caught her with a sitout jawbreaker. He finally made the tag to Leia, who entered the ring and went at Nina with her Show kicks. LeBeau was on fire, obtaining several near falls and quickly turning the match in her favor. By the end, she knocked Legion off the apron with a superkick to make sure she couldn’t interfere once she hit her Seattle Slutdrop on Nina. The former intern was quick to roll out of the ring, avoiding the pin. She began to reach under the ring skirt as Leia left the ring as well determined to drag Nina back in. She pulled out a bag, entirely similar to the one Camari took away! This one though had Jackie in it and seeing the snake crawling out of the bag froze Leia on the spot. Legion struck, hitting the Showgirl with the Icy Death to the back of the head. Nina put her snake back in the sack and rolled Leia inside the ring, waiting until she made it up to her feet to strike with the Sting (sambo casting punch), securing the win for her team. WINNER: Nina & Legion BY: Pinfall (The Sting), 14:13 |
The scene opens up in a garage gym. Nothing too elaborate, just a few dumbbells, jump ropes, a few sturdy wooden boxes set up in a corner, things like that. And in the middle of the garage is Alex Andrews doing some lunges. She looks at the camera and gives it a half-hearted smile, nodding towards it, signifying she's b aware of its presence. She tries to stay in the zone and finishes the set of lunges she's doing before finding a place against the wall to slump against.
Alex Andrews:
I tapped out. That definitely happened. It did, and I heard everyone talking. Talking about how I cost him the match, how I came up short. I heard them loud and clear. And you know what?
She shrugs.
Alex Andrews:
I don't really have an excuse. I got trapped and had to tap out. Better than breaking something, I suppose. It happens. I'm not going to sulk about it any more. It's time to dust myself off and try try again.
Alex lets out a sigh as she rests her head back against the wall.
Alex Andrews:
Trust me, I know how big this match is for me. The implications are not lost on me. And I know that Neil Newman is going to be watching as well. To see how I fair against Glory, to see how much fight I have left in me. I also understand what it means to be facing a champion, a standard bearer for the company and especially this brand. I get the importance.
She turns her head back towards the camera, looking back at it once more.
Alex Andrews:
I also heard how Glory has told people how consistent she has been. And that has been something...I'm not. Consistency hasn't been with me here in Millennium. Its been one step forward, two steps back, or so it feels like. So I quite understand if y'all over look me. If you underestimate my abilities, I totally get it. But do so at your own peril, Glory. I maybe a little wet behind the ears, but I'm no slouch. Just a bit more time in the ring and who knows, maybe someday, I'll be the one challenging you for that belt. But that's not right now. Right now, it's time for a showcase. To show you and Neil exactly what I'm made off. To show exactly how deep my resolve runs. Be ready, cause you're in for a fight.
Alex slowly pushes herself to her feet and finds a towel before walking off out of the garage, the scene fading to black.
Singles Match
Henri Black VS Liv MercerThe match started with the two competitors locking up in the middle of the ring. As he clearly stated last week, Henri Black had no interest at all in wasting time with technical frills, or to show off his undoubted skills. He was on a destruction path, and Liv was on his way. He drove a knee into the former Riot champion’s mid-section and another one before hitting a backhand fist that sent Mercer down. Liv used the ropes to pick herself up, surprising Henri with a back elbow when he, without haste, tried to grab her with a waistlock. Liv then hit the Revenant with a swift striking combination that ended with a roundhouse kick to put Black down. She quickly covered him, but the Blackstar kicked out with authority. Another tie-up in a collar and elbow position, but this time Black just used his strength to force Mercer back against the ropes. From there he whipped her across the ring and caught her with a big boot to the face on the rebound. He followed that with some ground and pound to wear her down further. A distraction from Oz Dalton was what Liv needed to turn the tables, surprising Black with a stiff forearm to the back of the head while the Blackstar was dealing with her manager and boyfriend. She then relentlessly kicked Henri all the way back into the corner and continued there, knocking the wind off the man’s chest with hard kicks and even choking him by pushing her foot against his neck. After the referee separated the two competitors and had a few words with Mercer about what she can and can’t do, Henri springed out of the corner and tried to behead her, but Liv’s dance background came in handy as she ducked the impact with a split, quickly getting up to her feet to superkick the Blackstar on the mush as he turned around. The pace was definitely much quicker by the end of the match, thanks to Liv kicking into high gear and coming at him with her high-flying style. From the top rope, she jumped with a front missile dropkick. Black rolled back and up to his feet only to eat a single leg dropkick from his opponent, who then attempted another pinning predicament only to obtain a two count. Contrary to what people and Liv would believe, Black was far from done. There was still some fight left in you, as Mercer learned when he ducked her roundhouse kick and grabbed her from behind to connect his triple german suplex. Liv was still recovering from that when she was knocked back down by the Black Diamond (V-Trigger Knee). She kicked out from that vicious strike, but she never had another chance to change the momentum of this match, Slowly but steadily Henri kept wearing her down, until he decided to end the match with his Black Sacrament, picking up another win right before Coup De Grâce. WINNER: Henri Black BY: Pinfall (Black Sacrament), 12:42 |
We open backstage in front of a wall that has an MWE Riot poster plastered on its dull white surface. This emptiness of the scene remains for just a few single solitary moments until The British Bombshell, the woman who some believe to be The Best in the World, Glory Braddock approaches with a confident stride in her step. The British Bombshell and current dual champion is already dressed in her wrestling gear and looks ready to compete, completely focused on the task at hand; defeating Alex Andrews tonight. Her MWE Riot Championship title belt is draped over her right shoulder and the SCW Adrenaline Championship title belt is draped over her left shoulder. A confident grin is etched across her lovely face as she stares into the camera.
Glory Braddock:
The difference between greatness and mediocrity lies within whether or not you can back up your words. Ever since I set foot into MWE I said I would take the Riot brand and reshape it, mold into the image of what professional wrestling should be. The Glorious Golden Era was born and we took on all comers. Neil and Kyle would go on to become World Tag Team Champions and as for myself? I went five matches against Henri Black to become the new MWE Riot Champion.
The Best in the World points a finger at the camera.
Glory Braddock:
I’ll get back to you in a moment, Henri. First I want to address your tag team partner from this past Riot, Alex Andrews. You are very talented, Alex, and I have no doubt that tonight you and I will steal the show. Neil sees great potential within you, otherwise he would not be pushing you and pressuring you as hard as he is. But in the tag team match pitting you and Henri against the Glorious Golden Era, you came up short. You could not back up your words. When the chips were down Neil was simply a little quicker, a little smarter, and just a little better than you. And that’s the kind of thing that can eat away at the mind of a competitor. You know how good you were, you know you laid it all on the line, but whether it was your fault or not you still could not get the job done. Just ask Henri Black…
Braddock smirks.
Glory Braddock:
He and I pushed one another to our limits in the most brutal of encounters, tying each other up at two matches apiece after four violent matches. Then in the fifth match, a Pure Rules Match, through no fault of his own I was simply quicker to the punch and got him locked in Glorify Thy Name. It is a move I don’t use as often as I used to and that’s why it worked. He wasn’t expecting it. My strategy was simply better on that night. His leg was in agony and he knew he had no other choice but to tap out. And I became the MWE Riot Champion. It’s eating him alive and that’s why he wants me one more time. He wants to redeem himself. He wants to blot out that loss to The British Bombshell.
She shakes her head.
Glory Braddock:
It’s not as easy as that and Henri knows it. You should know it too, Alex. If you don’t know it then you’ll learn real quickly that redeeming yourself means having to learn some very harsh and very painful lessons. That’s what I believe Neil is putting you through right now; painful, harsh lessons about the reality of this sport. Tonight we will put on a show, tonight we will STEAL the show, but if you want to redeem yourself you will have to endure the pain and agony that I intend to send your way. Because I am Glory Braddock, I am The Best in the World, and tonight I intend to give you two choices...you can tap out or I will choke you out.
Braddock shuts her eyes.
Glory Braddock:
Sic Semper Tyrannis…
Singles Match
Jessica Lasiewicz VS Dré AngeloJessica was… Different. That was the only word to describe the Archangel tonight. There was something in her eyes, in her movements and in the way she approached the match that made think that the “dark side” she’s been known to display from time to time emerged tonight. And it became clear once the bell rang, once she charged at Dré and flattened him with the Our Lady Peace right of the bat. Like a fury, she jumped on top of him, raining down closed fists to the face. The referee had to physically get involved to separate her from Angelo, taking this moment to have a few words with her. In response Jessica literally growled at him and pushed him aside, going back to her opponent who anticipated her with a kick to the guts. As Jessica doubled over, Dré grabbed her in a clinch and drove his knee on her face a few times before dropping her down with a dangerous elbow to the base of the neck. It wasn’t an easy match for the referee, mostly because these two were out here trying to kill each other. And that was barely an exaggeration. The dangerous former MMA sensation was going heavy on the daughter of the Polish legend with his strikes, most of them aiming at her head and some at her neck and throat. Jessica instead was focusing on Dré’s leg, literally tearing the limb apart in a similar fashion to what Karib tried to do to Qiyara one week ago. Including the part where she slammed his knee on the ring post several times before locking him in an illegal, yet very effective, corner post figure four leglock. The attempted pinning predicaments could be counted on one hand, none of them seemed to be intentioned to win this match in the conventional way, More likely they were trying to incapacitate the opponent and making sure they couldn’t continue. Even if that meant risking to lose the match via disqualification, and they both got close to that in several occasions, bringing the referee on the verge of just snapping and taking drastic measures. Things really escalated by the end of the match when Jessica hit a second Our Lady Peace that left Dré flat on his back, barely conscious. Lasiewicz then left the ring and grabbed a chair, stucking Angelo’s leg in it. She climbed to the top and looked like she was ready to jump onto it to break Dré’s leg. The referee begged her to stop, but Jessica looked determined to follow through. Not even seeing Karib rushing to the ring to save his partner could change her mind. Instead, she jumped at the Bad Boy and planted him with a tornado ddt on the concrete floor! By the time she got back to her feet, the referee had managed to pull Dré’s leg out of the chair, and toss the weapon out of the ring. Angelo himself was slowly starting to stir, probably unaware of the risk he just ran. He still wasn’t out of the woods though: Jessica picked up the chair from the floor and entered the ring, ignoring the referee’s warnings. Only one person could save Dré, and that was Summer Collins. Jessica’s partner came out and talked down the Archangel, convincing her to give up her plan. Lasiewicz dropped the chair and waited until Angelo picked himself up, connecting the Our Lady Of Sorrows to finally end this match. WINNER: Jessica Lasiewicz BY: Pinfall (Our Lady Of Sorrows), 15:03 |
Amy Maynard had left her spot at the commentators table and was currently standing in the middle of the ring with a microphone in hand. Two chairs were positioned behind her, four security members were standing at ringside. The reason became clear once the commentator started talking.
Amy Maynard:
Welcome back to Riot, ladies and gentlemen. I know I’m a bit out of place here but I really needed to get away from Figgles tonight or else I would’ve strangled him…
The fans in attendance laughed at her obvious joke, or perhaps at Sir Figgles exaggerated reaction.
Amy Maynard:
All jokes aside, I’ve been asked to conduct an interview, since the poor Abi is refusing after what happened the last time. So, without further ado, let me introduce to you my guest at this time, the former Invictus champion Echo!
WILD EYES hits the arena sound system, instantly drawing attention to the entryway where the emerging Echo was met with a combination of jeers and boos. She licked her smirking lips, nodding along to what would traditionally be the part of the song the crowd sang along with. She advanced toward the ring, enjoying every minute of it. She rolled under the bottom rope, springing to her feet quickly, staring down Amy with that same smirk.
Preemptively, she moved one of the chairs out of her way, but made sure to pick up her microphone first.
Echo:
So Abi’s scared, yeah? So they send you?
Amy Maynard:
After the number you did on her a few weeks ago, can you really blame her?
Amy answered, unafraid despite the reputation of the Australian fighter and her well-documented history of brutal attacks ever since parting with Yulia, Damian and the Fight Lab crew. Echo took a step toward Amy who didn’t flinch, staring right back at the imposing former Invictus champion. The security snapped to attention, ready to intervene at the drop of a hat. Amy instead kept it together, pointing at the chair and speaking calmly.
Amy Maynard:
Shall we start?
And she sat down, waiting for her guest to do the same.
Echo:
You must be a little scared too, yeah? You think they’ll stop me?
She huffed, shaking her head. Taking a few steps back, Echo leaned against the turnbuckles in the corner, watching Amy.
Echo:
But go ahead, ask whatever it is you dragged me out here for, we’ll see if it’s worth my time.
Acknowledging that the Australian wasn’t going to sit down, Amy started the interview with her first question.
Amy Maynard:
You’ve been on a hot streak since Riot came back after the summer break, picking up win after win against some of the big names on the orange brand. And yet, unlike many of your colleagues would have done in this situation, you didn’t claim your stake at any title. What’s driving you? What is your goal?
Echo:
Reclaiming my identity. Titles come and go, and believe me, I’ll be more than happy to break a few more arms to take them when the time comes.
She laughed at the crowd that started booing her again, the memory of the beatdown of Razzle Mars still fresh in their minds. Once they settle down, she continues.
Echo:
I lost who I was, and everyone saw it, they wanted me back. Then all of you finally, FINALLY get what you were asking for, and I’m a horrible person? Oh you better believe it, but the old saying goes, be careful what you wish for.
Amy kept her eyes on Echo as she spoke, listening carefully to every word.
Amy Maynard:
But you must admit this version of you is the polar opposite of the Echo that won the Invictus championship and the respect of her peers and fans as well. I remember when you first debuted, your constant fights against Yulia and your attitude, somehow similar to the one you’re carrying now. So what you’re telling us is that this is the real you, and that for months you just pretended to be something you’re not? And if that’s the case, why did you do it?
Echo took a few steps toward Amy, laughing as the security posted at ringside jumped into action, each hopping on the ring apron. She laughed, holding her hands up to imply she was being cool. They kept a close eye on her as they dropped back to the mat, causing her to shake her head.
Echo:
Why, for months, did Echo become someone, something else? It’s a pretty simple answer, Amy, you ready for this?
She held her finger up, quieting down the crowd.
Echo:
I was screwing Yulia, that’s why. I got bored of doing shit her way and it showed, so I went back to doing it mine.
A collective “ooohh” of surprise echoed in the Arena, and Amy herself seemed shocked by what the Aussie just said. Sir Figgles instead snorted and began laughing loudly.
Amy Maynard:
That’s… Unexpected, I always thought you two had a mentor/student relationship. But I guess that explains a few things. What I still don’t get is this me against the world attitude you are showing. You’re cutting bridges with everyone, alienating yourself from your colleagues, challenging authority and making enemies left and right.
Amy took a brief pause, probably reconsidering for a moment the question she was going to ask next. Then she decided to go for it, aware of the reaction this could cause in the hot-tempered Echo.
Amy Maynard:
Even in your private life. We saw the brutal attack on Razzles Mars, someone who considered you a friend and the last person to give up on you after this change, or going back to your true self, if you prefer.
Echo:
See, Amy, that’s where you’re wrong. I was never her friend. I don’t make friends with overgrown children. I tolerated her, that’s as far as that relationship went, but she had to go and accuse ME of taking shortcuts now?
She paused, staring down at Amy with the same fire in her eyes she had with Abigail, with Razzle.
Echo:
You think, at the end of the day, that this is about taking shortcuts? Yulia, she was the shortcut. Damian, he was a shortcut. They were crutches. But fuck them, I’m doing better now than I was parading around with a championship I never really gave a damn about, I’m glad that pissant division is dead.
She took note of the security again, relaxing herself.
Echo:
With what I’ve done lately, I could demand the world and have it handed to me because who in their right mind is going to be the one to deny me? But I’m not doing that, because I have too much unfinished business to handle.
Those last words and the tone she spoke them in left Maynard a bit uneasy.
Amy Maynard:
Unfinished business? With who?
She asked, not quite sure what Echo was referring to.
Echo:
Who? It’s a long, long list, Amy… There’s a lot of names on it. Mars, Damian, Yulia, they’re three of the four most pressing, though.
She sat the microphone down on the ground, quickly raising her hands to show she meant no ill-will. She mouthed the words “You’re safe” toward Amy, placating the nearby security enough to drop their guard…
Only for Echo to quickly strike, pouncing on the commentator turned interviewer with a quick boot to the face. Security instantly swarmed the ring, holding back the angry Aussie as she watched Amy writhe on the ground, laughing all the while.
The four men dragged Echo away, escorting her backstage. The doctor rushed to the ring to check on the commentator, but he wasn’t the only person coming out of the curtain.
Mia Maynard:
MOMMYYYYY!
Amy’s daughter Mia was right behind him screaming and crying as she reached her mother. The commentator reassured the doctor and quickly hugged the six years old, trying to comfort her and whispering that she was alright, that it was all over. Lastly Amy glanced over at Echo, that smirk still present on her face. No sign of regret, no second guessing her despicable actions even after seeing the heartbreaking scene. Only her wicked laughter caught by the cameras and resonating as she disappeared backstage.
Singles Match
Alex Andrews VS Glory BraddockThe Riot champion started this match off with the same intensity as ever. Some might have thought that the huge experience gap between her and the rookie could have led her to take this match lightly, but that’s not a mistake the Best In The World would make. Alex immediately learned what Glory was capable of. The British Bombshell unleashed a volley of kicks, quickly knocking Andrews down with a jumping knee. Braddock went down on the canvas and applied a headlock, looking to wear Alex down. She fought back though, getting up to her feet and trying to get free but Braddock was always one step ahead. She pushed Lady Limitless against the ropes and halted her run with a dropkick. Before trying the first pinfall of the match Glory connected an elbow drop to the chest, but it wasn’t enough to keep the rookie down. Glory was right when she talked about Andrews’ talent, and the eighteen years old proved it once again, right under her future opponent (and one of the first to see her qualities) eyes. Neil Newman was replacing Amy at commentary, observing how the rookie would do against a multi-time champion. And Alex was honestly impressive, ducking Glory’s lariat and planting the Best In The World on the mat with an STO. For several minutes after that the rookie got everyone’s hopes up and looked like she could score the upset of the night, setting the champion up for the backdrop driver and squashing her with a senton. But all her efforts were only worth a two. Andrews dragged the champion up to her feet and attempted her rainmaker, but Glory ducked it and countered with a neckbreaker instead. Despite Alex's great performance, Glory was still on another level. Her skill-set and experience allowed her to connect the Gloria In Excelsis Deo (codebreaker) out of nowhere, changing the direction the match was going. And while Neil pointed out the rookie’s mistake that allowed Glory to turn the tides, the Riot champion kept attacking the opponent relentlessly, getting close to the win with a fisherman suplex. Every attempt at making a comeback Alex tried was quickly frustrated by Braddock, who sent the rookie against the ropes with a superkick and caught her with the Beautiful Insanity as she bounced back. Once again Andrews kicked out prolonging this match for another couple of minutes, until the British Bombshell dropped her on her face with The Glorification, obtaining a win against one tough opponent. WINNER: Glory Braddock BY: Pinfall (The Glorification), 11:01 |
As MWE came back from commercial, we found Donovan Keane standing in the middle of the ring, a microphone in his hand and that slightly cocky smile plastered on his face.
Donovan Keane:
Sup MWE fans? You look surprised to see me here tonight..
He started speaking, looking at the limited number of fans that could attend the show.
Donovan Keane:
Did you really think I would pass up the chance to come out here and brag about how I beat Pierce Manning, AGAIN? Did you really think I wouldn't come out and rub in their face the fact that Leia and I ran circles around them? Did you really think I wouldn't made the trip to Chicago just to laugh one more time at those two arrogant pricks? Come on, it's almost like you don't know me at all...
Keane shrugged his shoulders.
Donovan Keane:
I mean, technically I made the trip to support my wonderful girlfriend and I'm pissed that she got screwed up once again. I spent the last hour or so comforting her. She's terrified of snakes and that bitch Nina knows it. But as mad as seeing all this shit they throw in their way to try keep her down, I find solace knowing that in two weeks she'll rise above all that crap and claim the title she fucking deserve.
The fans react to his heartfelt speech for Leia with a chant for the Showgirl.
Donovan Keane:
Yeah, she deserves it.. But I digress. See I'm not here to just brag about how great I am, how amazing Nightfall Rising and Nightfall Show or to remind you that Leia LeBeau is the next big thing in this company.. I also came here to challenge Pierce at Coup De Grâce.
Yeah, I know what you're saying Pierce...
He cleared his voice for a perfect imitation of the MENTV champion, including the posture and sipping from an imaginare glass of champagne.
Donovan Keane:
You had your chance, you couldn't beat me... Blah Blah Blah...
He ended his impression with a roll of his eyes.
Donovan Keane:
Let me point out one thing, Pierce. We met three times, I beat you twice you beat me... NEVER. And I believe that, deep down, that stings.. Or at least it should if you have a bit of a pride left in you. Or did Megan sucked all of it from you?
The next gesture Donnie made was... Not really PG. But it earned another round of laughter from the fans in attendance.
Donovan Keane:
We're bound to fight once again, you know it and I know it. I get that you're scared, our only draw saw you coming three seconds away from losing your precious strap... But here I am regardless, asking you to man up and change the game a little bit.
He smirked, leaving the audience wondering what he's about to ask.
Donovan Keane:
Let's make our next dance last 20 minutes rather than 15. You surely know all about the title you're holding and I like to believe you're aware that it's something that can be done. I could have asked Vincent to book it and he probably would've agreed because he's fair like that. But I'm here, talking to you.
Man...
He pointed at himself.
Donovan Keane:
To Manning.
I'm offering you the chance to prove that you're not a baby, take it. Be a real man.
After issuing the challenge, Donovan left the ring.
Tag Team Match
Duke Andrews & Alan Envy VS Sandstorm Inc. (Andrew Wilkow & Dreadnought)
Sir Figgles: “Well since Amy took my advice to knock herself out a tad too literally, I guess I’ll be commenting on this main event all by myse… Oh no, what are you doing here?” Donovan Keane: “The same thing I do on any given Sunday, my guy. I’m saving the show. Sup everybody?” Sir Figgles: “Go away Donnie, nobody wants you here!” Donovan Keane: “This is awkward, I heard a lot of people saying the same thing about you.” Sir Figgles: “Yeah well, but unlike you I’m qualified for this job..” Donovan Keane: “Bro, you’re talking to one of the best tag team wrestlers in this company. And soon-to-be MENTV champion. I’d say that makes me hella qualified for calling a match between a couple of little monkeys and Roidstorm.” Sir Figgles: “You’re making me miss Amy already… Why couldn’t Echo kick you in the face?” Andrews and Envy entered the ring with the MWE Tag Team titles around their waists. Waiting for them inside the ring were the duo of Dreadnought and Andrew Wilkow who didn’t waste a second to attack the APE guys, punching them as soon as they entered the ring. Pushing each one of them in a different corner of the ring, Wilkow and Dread were hammering the champions with heavy punches, and the match hadn’t started yet! The Private Contractor called his partner and they both charged at the same time, switching corners as they squashed their opponents with running splashes. Then they went for simultaneous Irish whips, causing the two members of APE to collide in the middle of the grains. Sir Figgles:”That’s what I call a meeting of the minds!” Donovan Keane:”If we’re like they scrambled their brains enough to make a functioning one.” Wilkow tossed Envy out of the ring, leaving Dread and Duke alone. Andrews was down, still recovering from the brutal assault him and Alan walked into. Dreadnought was closing in on Duke, who grabbed the title he dropped when he crashed against Alan and smacked Dreadnought in the face with it! The bell didn’t sound yet so the referee couldn’t disqualify the former Lockdown champion who slowly got up to his feet. Dreadnought was staggering, dizzy after getting hit with the tag title. A second blow knocked him down and caused some blood to trickle down his forehead. At this point the referee took the question in hand, yelling at Duke to go back in his corner and attending the bleeding member of Sandstorm. Dreadnought just picked himself up, more furious than before and pushed the referee away, yelling to ring the damn bell. Donovan Keane:”Looks like we’re having a match, after all.” As the bell finally sounded, the two met in the middle of the ring. The size and power advantage was favoring Dreadnought, but Duke had the experience by his side and stomped his foot. As soon as Dread lost his grasp, Andrews slammed his face against the turnbuckle ten times before dragging Dreadnought to his corner, making sure to grind his face on the top rope before reaching Alan and pushing the Private Contractor’s head against the Lonestar’s boot. Then he made the tag, letting Alan take the stage against the Sandstorm guys. Envy hit Dreadnought hard with heavy strikes, trying to suplex the 328 pounder who blocked the attempt and punched Alan in the ribs. He then lifted him in a powerbomb position and walked to his corner. Donovan Keane:”I think I saw this movie, it doesn’t end well for Envy…” Sir Figgles: “He’s a tag champion, he’ll be fine…” As Wilkow entered the ring, Dread turned around and ran toward the center of the ring, powerbombing Envy into the canvas. Andrew followed with a sliding lariat, making the cover on Alan who kicked out in time. The VP of Sandstorm focused most of his attack on Alan’s mid section, firing the Lonestar against the ropes and charging right after to catch him as soon as he bounced back with a kitchen sink. He lifted the member of APE upside down in a stalling vertical suplex, but the Show Stealer slipped away and landed behind Wilkow’s back. He caught Hearst’s goon in a waistlock and pushed him against the corner. Duke took the tag and entered the ring, waiting for his partner to lift Andrew with a german suplex to catch him with a neckbreaker in the fall. Sir Figgles: “How about that, huh? Great stuff from the tag champions!” Donovan Keane: “Sloppy execution, he barely even lifted Wilkow. 4/10.” Sir Figgles: “But the guy is nearly 300 pounds!” Donovan Keane: “And you don’t see him doing shooting star presses! Stick to what you can do, guys.” While the two men at ringside argued about things that had little to do with the match, Andrews got real close to the win on two occasions. After the german suplex/neckbreaker combination and after his Killshot (V-Trigger knee). As he charged at the staggering opponent for a clothesline he was caught by a desperation spear from Andrew. Both men were down as the referee initiated the double count. He reached three before Duke started moving, Wilkow did it one second later though, to his advantage, his corner was far more closer than Duke’s. Donovan Keane: “Oh shit, here comes the cavalry!” Sir Figgles: “Hey, Amy said you can’t say those words on live television!” Donovan Keane: “Shut up, I’m sure the sound guys were able to beep it.” Sir Figgles: “I don’t think they can do..” Donovan Keane: “Oh give me a break! Why don’t you say something about that instead?” Chris Constantine Junior and the MWE World champion Devin Hearst appeared on the ramp, watching the match. Wilkow just made the tag to Dreadnought, Duke was inches away from his partner, who looked over at Constantine and Hearst.. And he jumped off the apron. Donovan Keane: “Top 10 Anime betrayals right there!” Sir Figgles: “I can’t believe Duke just walked out on his brother!” Donovan Keane: “I can, I always said Alan was a piece of shit.. But this doesn’t make it any less shocking! And funny, in a way…” Duke barely had time to realize what was going on before Dreadnought caught him in the Tidal Wave (olympic slam) and made the cover to win the match for Sandstorm Inc. WINNER: Sandstorm Inc. BY: Pinfall (Tidal Wave), 19:53 |
Hearst and Constantine joined their teammates in the middle of the ring. Once again Sandstorm Inc was standing victorious, with their arms raised in the air. Envy grabbed the MWE Tag Team titles and handed one to Constantine, de facto choosing him as his partner to defend the gold at Coup De Grâce. The group left the ring, all of them but Dreadnought.
Alan Envy:
Come on bud, let's go celebreate! First round on me.
While Wilkow was the happiest man in the world after hearing that, Dreadnought didn't even turn to Alan. Envy took a step in the direction of the ring but Hearst stopped him, telling him that Dreadnought "will join us soon." Sandstorm Inc left the stage, leaving Dread alone with Duke.
Donovan Keane:
Shit is about to go down, I'm telling you!
Sir Figgles:
STOP! Stop saying that word! Why I can't even curse and you're allowed to say it?
Dreadonught left the ring and picked up his baton, ready to give Duke a taste of the same medicine he gave to Nina. And the Viper herself saved her friend from that fate, sneaking behind Dreadnought with a steel chair in hand. She smacked it across his back, but the behemoth didn't go down. That was never the girls' intention though, that shot bought her enough time to push Andrews under the bottom rope and helping him up the ramp. Dreadnought was LIVID inside the ring, throwing the chair at them and barely missing the Chicago born. On that image, the show ended.