Post by gvb on Feb 1, 2021 19:54:52 GMT -6
Riot in Illinois #19
Live from Enterprise Arena in Chicago, IL
Sunday, January 31st, 2021
Backstage here at Riot we come into the Bad Boyz locker room to the sounds of yelling and screaming. As we pan out we see Omari Johnson and Clyde Eldon Jr on both sides of a table. Clyde pulls up his sleeves while Omari gets into position.
Clyde Eldon Jr:
Trust me you don't want this.
As we pan out further we see the Bad Boyz gathered around. Dré Angelo is quiet but watching as Khalil seems more than ready to see these two arm wrestle. Further panning out we have Marcus Ali Jr with Erika wrapped around his arm. Her barely coming up to his chest level. Marcus Ali standing by looking on with Erika close by his side holding on to his arm. As usual Clyde is filled with confidence, while Omari remains quiet, and focused and he stares at Clyde Eldon Jr directly across the table from him. The two grips each other's hands and without any countdown or sign to start, the two start the arm wrestling contest. Suddenly in the midst of the contest as two test each other's strength. As the two go back and forth, out of nowhere, Marcus makes a shock announcement.
Marcus Ali Jr:
I got first dibs on the winner.
This caught Omari off guard and Clyde notices and steals the chance, by swiftly bringing Johnson's hand down to the table. Not happy Omari was about to react, but Marcus quickly steps up to him.
Marcus Ali Jr:
Don't be a sore loser bro. Have a seat.
Omari Johnson:
This ain't right Marcus, I was distracted. There is no freaking way that clown can beat me in an arm wrestling match.
Dré Angelo:
Well, sorry to bust your bubble bro, but he just did. Now shut up and sit down.
Omari Johnson:
Screw you Dré!!!!
Marcus turns around, grabs Omari by the back and shoves him towards the empty chair.
Marcus Ali Jr:
You need to calm the hell down. ......Now like I said, have a seat.
Still deviant and with tensions growing in the luxury locker room of the Bad Boyz, Omari looks to stand up to Marcus demands, Khalil (wearing a black Bad Boyz t-shirt, faded blue jeans and white & black UA sneakers) notices this and interrupts, by placing his muscular tattooed arm on the shoulders of Omari.
Khalil Washington III:
I need you to do something for me, let's go bro.
As Khalil tries his best to defuse the rising tension in the Bad Boyz locker room, by making an exit with Omari Johnson, Ali Jr (sporting a black Bad Boyz hoodie, black jeans and black & white Under Armour sneakers) who is not happy that Omari stood up to him, had something else on mind.
Marcus Ali Jr:
Actually you know what? I got dibs on you Omari.
Omari immediately turns around, but is a bit confused.
Omari Johnson:
What?!
Marcus Ali Jr:
You and I now, if you lose bro, there's gonna big consequences and you ain't gonna like it.
Omari slowly makes his way from the door and back into the room, while he sees a smiling Eldon Jr, staring at him.
Clyde Eldon Jr:
Good luck Omari!
Pretending to show confidence in Omari. When in reality he is more than eager to get out of the way and not have to face Marcus. He bounces up and away from the table to let them go at it. Marcus is in no mood for games and pissed as he already is from the rebellious attitude from Omari Johnson looks at Clyde Eldon Jr.
Marcus Ali Jr:
You're next in line and there will be consequences when you and you......
Marcus stares at Omari as he takes position by the table.
Marcus Ali Jr:
Lose.
Clyde Eldon Jr:
I have to work with him? No way man.
Clyde shakes his head angrily.
Omari Johnson:
Would you just shut up?!
Marcus Ali Jr:
Hey! Your focus is on me, not him. Don't want another lame excuse as to why you lose.
Omari nods, before taking his position in front of a pissed off Marcus Ali Jr. Marcus Ali Jr: Take my hand bro. The two finally lock hands as Khalil, Clyde, Erika and Dré look on as Marcus and Omari test each other's strength. They all watch as the two struggle for a moment before Marcus ends up winning. Erika cheers him on patting his back.
Erika Eldon:
Way to go Marcus!
Everyone in the room is excited except for Omari. Omari Johnson is clearly humbled, nervous as to what Marcus has planned for him as he looks down while Marcus stands in front of him looking directly at him.
Marcus Ali Jr:
Have you ever been in a fraternity?
Omari mumbles "No".
Marcus Ali Jr:
What was that?!
A far more calm and humbled Omari responds to Marcus, while everybody looks on quietly.
Omari Johnson:
No...... never been in a fraternity.
Marcus Ali Jr:
Well, in the fraternity I was in back in College, for the new kids or weak punk kids who got in our way and screwed up just like you did, their punishment was a simple ass whooping with this.
The Tattooed Angel sporting his usual SWAT like outfit walks up to Marcus and hands him a paddle.
Marcus Ali Jr:
You're going to get ten shots and for every shot you are going to say thank you sir, I deserved it. Do you understand?
Omari simply nods as he remains focused on the ground. Marcus smirks and looks over at Clyde, before carrying his focus back on Omari.
The Tattooed Angel:
Yuh gotta bend over bro.
If a pin drops right now, it will be heard loud and clear. Omari looks at Marcus.
Marcus Ali Jr:
Like he said, bend over bro.
Omari bends over obiently, Marcus plays with the pad, clearly he's had experience using it.
Marcus Ali Jr:
Yuh ready?
Before Omari Johnson could answer, Marcus swings and lands the first strike. Omari shouts out in pain. Marcus waits for him to catch himself, as he does Marcus ask him a question.
Marcus Ali Jr:
What do you say Mr. Johnson?
Omari digs deep and answers Marcus
Omari Johnson:
Thank you sir, I, ......I uhhhh, I deserved that sir.
Marcus Ali Jr:
Good boy!!!!!! Now we are reaching somewhere.
Marcus continues with his torture towards Ommari, Clyde looks on knowing this could be him in a few minutes. Finding the whole thing nothing he really wants to be part of.. Clyde whispers something to his sister and then sneaks out of the room. Saving himself from any of this. As Marcus continues to make Omari's life hell, finishing the paddling as Clyde makes his escape.
Marcus Ali Jr:
Clyde you are up next…
Getting ready for the next arm wrestling competition, Marcus and the other Bad Boyz looks around to find Clyde long gone as the show continues.
Tryout Match
Teddy Steele VS Razzles MarsA Riot contract on the line for the 21 years old brit, known to the MWE fans as the victim of Echo’s brutal assault back in November. But there’s more to her story, including a title held in Action Wrestling one year ago. After shaking off some ring rust in the opening moments of the match, Razzles began showing that set of skills that brought her to her first and only title reign. Her speed and athleticism, combined with the positive attitude and the natural entertainer skills quickly turned her into a fan favorite. The people in attendance really wanted to see her succeed, heavily booing Teddy when he blinded her with a poke to the eye and dropped her down with a neckbreaker. With an irish whip the Pure Mint sent Steel in the corner and charged toward him for a splash. The man raised his boot and kicked her on the face, causing her to spin around 180°. Pulling himself on the middle rope, he tucked her head under his arm and flipped forward. driving her on the mat with the Droppin Da Beat (diamond dust), trying to crush the young girl’s dream. Mars kicked out in time. The young girl’s heart and determination helped her turn the odds. That and the Everlasting Gobstopper (split-legged jawbreaker). The two competitors traded shots until the Brit took over with a snapmare and a dropkick to the back of the head. She attempted a first pinfall, but Teddy kicked out. A second one came after the Mars Rover diving somersault legdrop, but Steele stayed alive. The fans were loud and all behind The Reigning Queen Of Candyland, who was feeding on their energy and channeling it into a big yakuza kick. As she picked him up, he used another of his tricks to turn the tides, yanking at her hair this time. He then trapped her in a headlock, but Mars drove her elbow into his stomach. Twice. And a third time but Steele maintained his grip. A fourth and a fifth in rapid succession did the trick and finally broke up the hold. Razzles then was quick to turn and knock him down with a terrific enziguri kick. She looked at the opponent, then at the corner and then again at the fans. With a big smile on her face, she climbed to the top rope and jumped for her Peppermint Twist (sky twister) scoring the win and earning herself a spot on the Riot roster. WINNER: Razzles Mars BY: Pinfall (Peppermint Twist), 7;12 |
The match was over, the fans were celebrating with an overjoyed Razzles Mars who was going from one corner to the other of the ring to involve all the fans in this moment of joy. Their scream of joy suddenly turned into boos, which left Razzles obviously confused and slightly distraught. When she climbed down of the corner though, the reason became immediately clear, and the younf woman found herself face to face with her greatest nemesis. Echo was there, and not to congratulate her former friend. Instead, she kicked her in the stomach and sent her against the ropes, waiting for her to bounce back to slam her violently on the canvas with The Reverb.
Then, with a satisfied smirk on her face, she left, not giving a single fuck about the boos the fans were showering her with.
Then, with a satisfied smirk on her face, she left, not giving a single fuck about the boos the fans were showering her with.
We open to the backstage area of the Enterprise Arena. We find in a secluded area, all to herself, is none other than “The British Bombshell” Glory Braddock. The blonde is already dressed to compete in her purple two piece bell bottom style ring attire seated on a brown stool. Braddock is always focused on the task at hand and tonight is no different, but despite her focus she still appears to be bothered by something. She appears lost in her thoughts as she stares off into space. The British Bombshell and former Riot Champion could use someone to talk to, which is evident by the sigh she lets escape.
“Penny for your thoughts, mate?”
Braddock is startled by this voice, but not startled. It merely takes her by surprise because she knows the voice and wasn’t expecting this person to arrive tonight. Braddock gets up off the brown stool she had been sitting on and turns to find her childhood best friend and Millennium star Sophie O’Brian approaching. A wide ear to ear grin forms upon Glory’s face as she approaches Sophie. The two meet and then embrace in a tight hug.
Glory Braddock:
Bloody hell, mate! What are you doing here? You are a Millennium wrestler, unless you got a contract change or some shite like that.
O’Brian dispels those rumors with a shake of her head.
Sophie O’Brian:
No, I’m still on the Millennium roster. But that doesn’t mean I cannot visit my friend now does it? Besides, it was your idea that we work with one another when needed. You serve as my guide, manager, whatever you want to call it on Millennium and I serve as yours here on Riot.
Glory Braddock:
Right but you’ve never requested my help. Not that much at least.
Sophie O’Brian:
No, I have not, because I want to make a name for myself. It isn’t disrespect, Gloria, so please do not take it as such, but the Braddock name is so popular in Europe and even across the globe. Everyone knows you are the daughter of Glenn Braddock. Me? For the early part of my career I was known as Glory’s friend, and this is despite me winning four world championships on my own. So forgive me for not reaching out to you.
Braddock nods her head in agreement and understanding.
Glory Braddock:
No apology necessary, mate. I understand completely. It was just an idea I had so that each of us would have another weapon in our arsenal. And as a student of the Art of War I am certain Sun Tzu would never want you to take anything off the table.
O’Brian grins knowingly.
Sophie O’Brian:
Of course not. I fear, though, that you are taking certain weapons off the table and that may prove to be your downfall.
The British Bombshell furrows her brow in curiosity.
Glory Braddock:
What do you mean, mate?
Sophie O’Brian:
Look, I haven’t reached out to you for help and, to be perfectly honest, you haven’t reached out to me for help, either. You heard my reasoning but I do not understand yours. I never have, to be perfectly honest with you. You always go face the toughest of challenges head on, you face giants, monsters, and tyrants, and in fairness you usually win, but there are times you get knocked down and you find pulling yourself back up rather difficult and challenging. You recently got knocked down off your perch as champion of this fine brand by Henri Black. And what happened since then?
Sophie folds her arms over her chest and waits on an answer. The British Bombshell knows the answer and doesn’t particularly like it.
Glory Braddock:
I have hit a rough patch. I lost to Eliza Foley which isn’t anything to be ashamed of but…
Sophie O’Brian:
But you are the best in the world. You are also a former Riot Champion. Where is your rematch? If Pierce Manning wins tonight, he will no doubt go right after Henri and you will be left on the outside looking in. And what are you doing tonight?
Glory Braddock:
I’m fighting Liv Mercer.
Sophie O’Brian:
Right, and you’re practically starting the show. But you were the main event. And if I know you as well as I think I know you then it is eating you alive that you are facing Liv tonight near the top of the program instead of being featured prominently somewhere.
Braddock scowls as she grows more and more frustrated with this line of thought.
Glory Braddock:
You’re right, Sophie, I do not like it. But all I can do is go out there and do my job. I can go out there, face Mercer, and make damn sure everyone from Moretti to Grace herself remembers who the hell I am. Liv has been in this business about two years. I have been at it for twelve years. In that time I have been a fourteen time world champion and I fully intend to become a fifteen time champion this year. I fully intend to be the next MWE World Champion. And my journey starts tonight when I put down Liv Mercery and prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that The Best in the World deserves better.
A smug smirk forms on Sophie’s face.
Sophie O’Brian:
Excellent. You were always at your best when you had a goal. But there is one lesson that your father taught that you tend to forget, and it is a lesson that while I do not always heed I still keep it…”on the table” as they say.
Glory Braddock:
What do you mean?
Sophie O’Brian:
Tell me, Gloria...how did you come to dominate the Riot Brand as effortlessly as you did?
The British Bombshell ponders this question for a moment. Then her face lights up, almost like a lightbulb went off in her mind.
Glory Braddock:
The Glorious Golden Era.
Sophie O’Brian:
That’s right. You with Neil, Kyle, and Hayley dominated this brand. You were tag champions, junior heavyweight champion, and Riot Champion. You say you want to be world champion for a fifteenth time but look at the current situation and I am not just talking about Sandstorm. Everyone wants to be on top. Everyone can sense blood in the water and will circle, fighting for the best cut of meat. Whatever you choose to do, whether it is to dominate Riot again or win your fifteenth world title, then take some advice from your best friend and rally the troops. Get some backup. And consider me the first member of your volunteer army.
Braddock slowly grins. Then she embraces Sophie in another tight hug.
Glory Braddock:
Thanks, Sophie...thanks for reminding me who I am…
Sophie O’Brian:
Anytime, mate. Now go out there and choke Liv Mercer out.
Singles Match
Liv Mercer VS Glory BraddockAfter main eventing Riot and headlining Pay-Per-Views for months, Glory Braddock was back to square one. And she didn’t look happy about it. The start of her match was incredibly aggressive, blasting the first ever Riot champion with a series of kicks that forced Liv against the ropes. Took off guard in the starting moments of the match, Mercer reacted by reversing an irish whip and jumping with a dropkick as The Best In The World bounced back, catching her right on the face. Liv needed the win to reignite a career that saw too many bumps in recent times, but tonight’s opponent wasn’t the easiest she could hope for. Trying to outwrestle Braddock was a no go, the British Bombshell knew a way out of every hold and lock Liv tried to apply. And in the end, Glory was able to get out of it and twist her arm behind her back, connecting a hammerlock suplex and shifting immediately into a cover, obtaining a two. Glory kept control, not leaving Liv much room to maneuver. The continuance of this situation perhaps led to an excess of confidence from Glory, which gave Mercer the chance to plant the Best In The World with a reverse neckbreaker.She made the cover attempt but Glory kicked out in two. Looking to wear the former champion down, Mercer applied a reverse chinlock, spontaneously breaking the hold and stomping Braddock to the ground. A few more stomps followed before Liv went for another submission, applying a dragon sleeper. This time Glory didn’t try to wrestle her way out of the submission, having a much easier escape option in the nearby ropes she effortlessly reached with her leg. Her great ring awareness might have interrupted the submission but Mercer didn’t let her go yet, fully exploiting the count. When all else fails, Liv could always count on her boyfriend to give her a hand. He was the one who, after the former champion connected the Blaze Of Glory (Shooting Star Press) put her foot on the bottom rope and called the referee’s attention on it. If the official didn’t realize what happened behind his back, Braddock saw it and confronted Oz about it. Liv took advantage of the distraction and dropped Braddock down with the straightjacket neckbreaker slam, obtaining another near fall. She waited until Glory got up to her feet and went for a roundhouse kick, getting another two. Frustration started creeping in on Liv, but the former Jr Heavyweight champion channeled it in a volley of kicks that left Braddock groggy. The next step was inevitable and meant to give Mercer a prestigious win, but once again Glory raised her shoulder in time, frustrating the Stay Grounded. And at this point Liv snapped, lashing out at the poor referee. Turning her back to Glory even for a moment proved to be a mistake as the former top champion of the Orange Brand connected a dragon suplex and a knee to the face as Liv started to stir. Mercer survived that, but she stood no chance against The Glorification. WINNER: Glory Braddock BY: Pinfall (The Glorification), 8:36 |
We cut backstage shortly after the Glory Braddock/Liv Mercer match concluded. Braddock is still in her wrestling gear and sweat is coming off her face from a hard fought match. But she is also sporting a grin on her face as she is happy about her victory.
Glory Braddock:
You know what? No one will ever accuse Glory Braddock of making excuses when I lose and no one will ever accuse Glory Braddock of being a braggadocious sore winner when I come out victorious, either. So Liv gave it a good effort but her best just wasn’t good enough on this night. The fact is that when I am focused, when I am at the top of my game, very few can match what I can do. When I am at my best, I can beat anyone. I may have had a rough patch where I forgot who I was shortly after losing the Riot Championship but you had better believe that The British Bombshell is back and I am hereby putting everyone in this company on notice…
She points a finger at the camera.
Glory Braddock:
...it doesn’t matter who I have to go through, it doesn’t matter if it takes just a week or two or if it takes several months, but I will get what I want. And what I want is quite simple; I have already conquered the Riot brand. I have been Riot Champion and held it for 173 days, the second longest reign in the championship’s history. I am proud of what I accomplished here on Riot, representing this brand as its champion. But I am ready for more. I am ready for the next challenge. And what I want is to win my fifteenth world championship. So to whoever is listening, whoever makes the decisions out there...you will make the match. You will grant me a world championship match. You may recognize that I am worthy of a title shot and you may grant me the opportunity right away. Then again, you may want me to prove myself. And if that’s the case then I will continue to mow through any other competition I have to in order to get that opportunity. But somehow someway you will eventually have to grant me a title shot. And then I will take on the best this company has to offer and prove yet again that I am exactly what I say I am…
She smirks confidently.
Glory Braddock:
...The Best in the World.
Backstage we find “The Woman Scorned” Kimberly Williams pacing the floor, rambling on and on about her tag match tonight pitting her and her fellow psychopath Saki against Warblade 42. A psychopath rambling to herself isn’t out of the ordinary, but in this case Kimberly isn’t just rambling to herself. Kim is being joined tonight by a sophisticated, debonair woman, middle aged, with blonde hair. This mystery woman seems rather flustered by Kimberly’s incessent rambling.
Kimberly Williams:
Look, Sorry, I think it is a legitimate option…
Sorinah:
Sorinah, Ms. WIlliams. My name is Sorinah.
Kimberly Williams:
Sorry, Sorry...tee, hee, like what I did there?
Sorinah:
It was...delightful, Ms. Williams...but I hate to disappoint you by telling you that murdering your opponents will, in fact, lead to a disqualification.
Kimberly Williams:
I don’t think you get it, Sorry. I’m not suggesting using Betty White to gut Warblade like a couple fishes outta water. I’m not suggesting putting staples in their asses. I’m not even suggesting using Wasley or the Infinity Gauntlet to knock them into next week. I’m just saying, hypothetically, if Saki and I just beat on them long enough…
Sorinah:
I am quite certain that the referee would call for a halt to the match if you and Saki managed to hurt them that badly simply based on wrestling maneuvers. Though I would not hold my breath on that even happening. Warblade are not to be trifled with, from what my research shows.
Kimberly Williams:
Oh I dunno about that, because I can hold my breath a really long time! See?!
Kimberly takes in a deep breath. Sorinah sighs and motions for Kimberly to follow her.
Sorinah:
Come, Ms. Williams. Let’s get you ready.
Sorinah walks off. Kimberly follows, skipping away happily.
Tag Team Match
Warblade 42 VS Kimberly Williams & Saki
In the first tag match of the night, Kimberly and Saki took on Warblade 42. Williams was the one to start the match for her team, taking on the powerhouse of Warblade 42 Valkyrie. The Woman Scorned came off with a running crossbody but Vee showed off her strength by catching the smaller opponent in midair and bringing her down with a powerslam. Kim rolled away before the Big Dane Bitch could make a cover, and when she tried to follow she was met with a back kick right to the jaw. The Warmaiden Of Roskilde was barely rocked, pretty much absorbing the impact and staring holes through the former Underground Bloodlust champion with a look of pure determination on her face. Williams took advantage of the moment though, sliding under the bottom rope and launching herself back up and over for a springboard dropkick that this time took Vee off of her feet. She made the tag to the Kawaii Deathmachine who entered the ring and charged at the rising Valkyrie with a full head of steam, delivering a hard knee to the face that left the member of Warblade 42 laying flat on her back. The Singapore Mauler made the cover but it’d take a lot more to keep Vee down. After countering a hurricanrana attempt with a devastating powerbomb that left Saki writhing in pain, Valkyrie reached her partner in the corner and made the tag to Niko who wasted no time and blasted the former Empire Extreme champion with a clothesline. She then picked her up and connected with a suplex, the first of a series of three. She never got to complete it though since Saki blocked it with her leg and caught her with a cradle, almost stealing the win. They both were quickly up to their feet, Saki went immediately for a standing dropkick that sent Yua back on the mat. The Kawaii Deathmachine connected a moonsault knee drop, but the Blade Maiden was not giving up yet. She even kicked out from the german suplex/neckbreaker combination, and from Kimberly’s Morrigan’s Wrath, and managed to turn the tables with an armdrag followed by running knees to the seated opponent, almost getting the three count out of it. In the final moments of the match things got pretty chaotic, Kim and Saki stopped caring about tags and who was legal, spending most of the time in the ring together, double teaming Valkyrie with the young and inexperienced referee unable to restore any semblance of order. That was when Niko stepped up, entering the ring as well and fighting side by side with her partner, focusing mostly on Saki and eventually clearing the ring off her presence, taking the Singapore Mauler and herself out of the ring with a clothesline. Inside the ropes, Kimberly was ready to strike with the Shadowblade after planting the Dane with a jumping ddt. Then “Ugly” by The Exies blared out of the loudspeakers, taking Kimberly’s attention on the main stage where she thought she’d see Ale Velasco appearing. But that never happened, the puertorican didn’t come out of the curtain. Still, the distraction costed Kimberly the match, as Valkyrie knocked her down with the Hammer Of Thor (kinshasa), dropping on top of the Woman Scorned and hooking the leg for the three count. WINNER: Warblade 42 BY: Pinfall (Hammer Of Thor), 11:58 |
The backstage camera picked up Qiyara Singh. Already dressed to compete, the Indian sensation was busy with her warm-up routine, preparing herself for the tag match against her close friends Donovan Keane and Jay Gallagher. Oddly enough, she was there alone, her boyfriend and tag team partner Rhett Adelson was nowhere to be seen.
Donovan Keane:
Stretch all you want, you and Rhetty are still gonna get your ass kicked.
The tone of his voice was clearly joking, no real animosity in Donnie’s voice as he walked toward Singh from the opposite side of the hallway. In his hand, no real surprise, he had a cup of steaming latte he was bringing to his girlfriend, the Junior Heavyweight Champion Leia LeBeau.
Qiyara admired him with a smile, turning to greet him in that way, lifting her brows and tilting her head slightly for a response while grabbing her leg to pull it up to her.
Qiyara Singh:
Quite the contrary, this was my cooling down phase, not much warming needed in facing you two.
A playful wink given as she released her leg before moving on to her arms and shoulders.
Qiyara Singh:
Speaking of warming up, I see someone is in need of her favorite drink to be fetched.
She laughed peering at the latte. Donovan shrugged and smiled at his friend.
Donovan Keane:
What can I say, everyone has their own pre-match rituals. Mine is to spoil my girlfriend and bring her her favorite drink. And make sure Bebe doesn’t ruin it.
Donnie chuckled and glanced behind the camera held, presumably, by Bebe herself.
Donovan Keane:
Where’s Rhett by the way? How is he holding up with everything that’s going on?
The smile she held turned into something more serious, her lips tightening so to speak.
Qiyara Singh:
Honestly, that is a tough question to answer. He’s the same as he always is with me of course. Sweet, attentive, but he’s definitely holding a lot back. He’s closing himself off and I am not sure how to help him truly. I’m not even sure that I can.
She said, though admitting that out loud gave light to a bit of her own insecurity that she hadn’t even realized was there.
Qiyara Singh:
I just don’t want him feeling like he has to go through it alone, you know?
Donovan put down the latte on a nearby table and placed both hands on Qiyara’s shoulders.
Donovan Keane:
He’s not alone, and neither are you. I’ve kept myself out of it, it’s a delicate situation and I’m afraid something I say can make it worse. But you know where to find me if you and Rhett need anything.
He spoke these words in a serious tone, looking straight in her eyes.
Donovan Keane:
Christ, besides that goof of a tag partner I have, you two are my best friends. I don’t know how or if I can help, but say the word and I’ll do anything you need.
She takes a moment to listen to him with intent showing in her eyes before nodding gratefully.
Qiyara Singh:
You know I will, you’ve been kinder to me than I’ve deserved at times and I’m very humbled by that. I think he just needs time to work through it, and you’re right. Saying its delicate is putting it lightly.
You could tell she was hyper-observant of the cameras then before she rolled her neck making sure she didn’t say too much more than needed.
Qiyara Singh:
Despite all that though, I know he’ll be ready to do what is needed when the time comes and we’ll actually be facing opponents who deserve our attention and care less about our ‘marital’ discord or better yet, throwing a tantrum because they were beaten and trying to call it, urban warfare.
She raised a brow at that knowing just bringing up the term would help Donnie recollect who she was speaking about.
Donovan Keane:
The Sad Boyz, yeah… Don’t let me even start with those idiots. If I didn’t hate them enough for screwing you and Rhett out of your opportunity, the stunts they’ve been pulling recently definitely put them on Dangerous Donnie’s hit list.
He turned to wink at the camera and show the “Dangerous Donnie” shirt he was wearing.
Donovan Keane:
I hope they’ll try something tonight. I actually dare them to walk to the ring and try to fuck with our match. Bet they won’t though, they know that if they step up against the four of us, that’d be the last thing they’ll do for 4 to 6 months.
She nodded affirmatively now letting her smile grow once more.
Qiyara SIngh:
On Dangerous Donnie’s and my bad side all at once, not a good place for them to be. Especially with the way I leave them singing periodically.
She gave a light laugh to that.
Qiyara Singh:
I know you’ve got our back Donnie and we’ve got yours. I’m going to go chase down that partner of mine though. I’ll see you out there.
She offered with a wave.
Donovan Keane:
Let’s give these fans something to talk about.
He smiled back at her, reaching for the latte on the nearby table. The look on his face immediately changed as he glanced at the cup in his hand. It seemed strangely… empty.
Donovan Keane:
GOD DAMN IT BEBE!
The young cameraman squealed, turning the camera away from the visibly upset Donovan and running away from his ire.
Singles Match
Legion VS The EyeFirst singles match in MWE for The Eye against someone who, after coming in strong and with great promise, lost herself in the way. Tonight she wanted to change her fortune and pick up the win, and to do so she decided to take the early advantage and charge at The Eye while he still had his back turned, before the bell even rang. But The Eye had eyes behind his back too, and he caught Legion with a back kick to stomach, doubling her over. The referee rushed to start the match, The Eye rushed to finish it with the Tiger Driver, obtaining the fastest pinfall win in the company’s history. WINNER: The Eye BY: Pinfall (Tiger Driver), 0:08 |
We cut backstage to Rhett Adelson walking down the halls. Normally he has Qiyara Singh with him but right now, he was alone. He soon spotted the camera and rolled his eyes.
Rhett Adelson:
What? What do you want? Do you want to hear about my life? My career? Everything that’s botheringme? WHAT!?
Rhett scoffed and shook his head.
Rhett Adelson:
I’m not in the mood for talking right now. Not only have Yara and I been screwed time and time again here in MWE… but I’m dealing with some heavy shit right now in my personal life and…
He paused and shook his head again.
Rhett Adelson:
I’m just not ready to talk about anything right now.
Suddenly Jay Gallagher, Rhett’s friend and opponent later in appeared.
Jay Gallagher:
Rhett! Everyone is wondering where you’ve been!! You good bud? You look kind mad…
Rhett stared daggers at Jay.
Jay Gallagher:
Woah man. You don’t have to get all serious with me like that. I know you’re dealing with stuff with the return of your brother Rhys but…
Rhett Adelson:
I don’t want to hear about him right now!!
Rhett shoved Jay to the ground and walked away. Jay looked more perplexed than anything as he sat there on the floor.
Jay Gallagher:
What the hell?
He then found a quarter on the ground and smiled.
Jay Gallagher:
Hell yeah! Free money! Thanks for the push, Rhett!
He laughed before the scene cut away.
Tag Team Match
Nightfall Rising VS Rhett Adelson & Qiyara Singh
A great show of sportsmanship between the four, the friendship that binds them outside the ring was no secret and it only added appeal to the match that started with Donovan and Rhett inside the ring. Some playful banter right after the bell rang with Donnie teasing his good friend who didn’t let the little zingers get to him. He quickly caught Keane in a side headlock, the member of Nightfall Rising pushed him against the ropes and leapfrogged over him when Rhett bounced back, hitting a picture perfect dropkick that caught Adelson right on the face. He rolled out of the ring and checked his nose, keeping his eyes on Donnie who had now grabbed the top rope and looked ready to jump on him with a pescado. He stepped away but Keane only faked it, landing on the apron instead and quickly going for an asai moonsault instead, hitting the target. Wasting no time, Keane rolled him back in the ring and made the tag to Jay who immediately attempted the Galla-Star Press, landing on the opponent’s knees. Still a bit stunned and far from his usual shape, Adelson opted for letting the stage to his girlfriend and regroup on the outside. Qiyara was really pulling her weight tonight, holding her ground against both Jay and Donnie. The action was frantic, the Nightfall duo using quick tags to try wear down Singh, but Qiyara managed to keep them at bay with her kicks and Muay Thai influenced strikes. And even when things looked bad for her, after falling victim to the Donnie Cutter, she swiftly turned things around by catching the opponent in her pace choke. Donovan was struggling, the tight submission already causing him to fade out. Before giving up though he was able to roll over so that Qiyara’s shoulders were pinned on the mat and the woman had to let him go to kick out from the impromptu cover. She blocked Keane before he could reach the corner but he quickly turned around and rocked her with an enziguri, tagging Jay back in the mix. Gallagher entered the ring with a springboard crossbody, but he only obtained a two count out of it. He had the momentum on his side though, and he insisted with his hard kicks to set Qiyara up for the Jay Walking. The Indian slipped away from the fireman’s carry position and shoved Gallagher into the ropes, running and hitting him with a knee to the face as he bounced back. Exhausted, she finally made the tag. Rhett looked way more focused now, staying on top of Jay with his unmatched speed. Following a slingblade, he delivered a flurry of hard kicks to the chest of the Nightfall member, leaving him groggy on his knees and planting his face on the mat with a hurricanrana driver. Donovan rushed in to save his partner, interrupting the count right before the three. The threat of the Bad Boyz interfering was constantly looming over them, you could tell by the way they kept eyeing the entrance and the ringside almost expecting them to appear at any moment. Exploiting one of these distractions, Jay nailed Rhett with a ddt and made the tag to Donnie. The match had come full circle, the two men who started the match were about to end it. And they both went all the way, wanting to prove themselves better than the other in a friendly, but not for that any less fierce, competition. Donnie’s inverted ddt saw Adelson raising his shoulder at the last possible moment, and Rhett himself went really close to the win with the Explosion, but in that case it was Gallagher who saved his partner. The end though was near, and it came with the most classical of Rhett’s combination. Gamengiri kick and Nightfall Splash. Singh made sure this time Jay couldn’t interfere and Adelson scored the win for his team. WINNER: Rhett Adelson & Qiyara Singh BY: Pinfall (Nightfall Splash), 15:22 |
The scene opens up in the docking area of the Enterprise Arena. After a brief glance around, we see that Alex Andrews has parked herself on one of the crates scattered around the area. She is lightly tapping her finger along the top of the crate. Her demeanor seems a little less grim than it has in recent weeks.
Alex Andrews:
Finally. Finally, I'm slowly getting a little bit of momentum going my way. And it couldn't come at a better time, right. With Domino Effect looming, now is a chance to prove myself. Well, not prove myself, I'm done trying to prove myself to others. But to get myself in good standings.
She keeps tapping that finger.
Alex Andrews:
Because, the way I see it. Right now, I have a chance to go up against the MWE Junior Heavyweight Champion, non-title of course. And who knows? Beating a champion right before a big event has to be worth something, right? Puts me up front, one would think?
Alex clicks her teeth and stops drumming, looking up towards the camera.
Alex Andrews:
Leia, we aren't exactly strangers to one another, we stepped into that ring back during the summer during that ladder match when you got so close to claiming your title then. But that was then, and this is now. And I'm not the same doe-eyed rookie straight out of training I was then. I've seen some things. I've done a few others. And I'm a whole different animal than I used to be back then. And I'm trying to build something here, brick by brick. And it might be nice if that included that shiny belt you hold. It might be nice.
Alex stands up, shaking her legs a bit, trying to lessen up.
Alex Andrews:
Someone once thought that I didn't have that killer instinct. That drive to get my hands dirty when the deed needed to be done. Well, last I checked, I shit that man up. And I see something I want very badly. Imagine what I'll do to make sure I get one step closer to what I want. Wait and see.
Alex gives a wink to the camera and slowly walks off, letting the camera stay there a moment before going black.
Singles Match
Leia LeBeau VS Alex AndrewsBoth women were welcomed by the cheer of the fans, looking forward to seeing what promised to be a great match between the Junior Heavyweight champion and one of the rising stars in the company. The bell sounded and Alex charged at Leia, surprising her with a basement dropkick to the left knee. Leia fell on her face, slowly pulling herself up on her knees. Lady Limitless went for an early Brain Death (step-up axe kick) attempt but LeBeau had it scouted and was able to counter and slam the opponent into the mat. Andrews groaned in pain, arching and holding her back. Leia relentlessly began to stomp her into the mat, flattening her on her back. She then jumped and drove her leg across the throat with the standing somersault legdrop. Leai made the cover but Alex still had a lot left in the tank and kicked out in time. The fans were still divided, cheering on both competitors depending on how the momentum was swinging. And it swung a lot, back and forth between the two wrestlers who were giving rise to a very evenly matched contest. Leia was going all in with her boxing and kicking combinations, Alex preferred a different approach doing her best to stay away from those hard strikes ready to counter with throws, like the exploder suplex she performed after blocking Leia’s kick. Being so close to the corner didn’t go well for Leia who impacted hard against the turnbuckle, immediately favoring her back. And that opened the way to more attacks aiming at that body part from Alex, with moves like the backdrop driver and the Broken Wings backstabber. Leia kicked from both pinning predicaments and the followings, each and every time though a little closer to the three. Now in great difficulty, the Junior Heavyweight champion rolled on the outside to catch a break, but Alex wasn’t giving her any room to breathe, flying through the ropes with a suicide dive. Taking risks like that does not always pay out, and this was one of those cases as Leia caught her with a superkick on the fly. It was all downhill from there on for Leia, who apparently was looking to get a submission win with the Sleepless In Seattle sleeper hold, dragging the opponent to the mat. Alex looked like she was going to pass out, the referee went to check on her and raised her arm, letting it fall with no reaction from Lady Limitless. Leia kept the hold tight, the referee repeating the procedure with the same outcome. He went for it a third time, and now there was the reaction the fans were waiting for. Alex started to pick herself up, God knows where she found that strength that seemed to have abandoned her only a moment ago. But she was up to her feet, using her elbow to break free. And she did, charging at the ropes and trying to catch Leia with a clothesline but the champ surprised the opponent with a drop toe hold. She was looking for the Sin City Sleepover, when she saw Omari Johnson walking down the ramp. The rest of the Bad Boyz hopped the barricade, surrounding the ring. They all were standing on the apron now, all five of them trying to enter the ring. The referee tried to talk to them, but as soon as Omari entered the ring, he called for the bell. WINNER: // BY: No Contest, 10:28 |
Things weren't looking good for Leia, surrounded by the Bad Boyz. Alex bravely stood up next to her but even then it was a two on five situation. The odds quickly turned as Donnie, Jay, Qiyara and Rhett all came out to the Junior Heavyweight Champion's rescue. The Bad Boyz considered a strategic retreat, but it was too late now. For a change, they were the ones surrounded and with their back against the wall, outnumbered and with nowhere to go. Keane and Adelson, for different reasons, were the most ferocious in their attacks, Donnie even taking a chair into this brawl and smacking it against Dré's tattooed back.
Security rushed to the ring in full force, finally separating the two groups of contenders. Keane quickly went to check on Leia who reassured him about her status. Then the Junior Heavyweight champion turned to Andrews and thanked her, apologizing for the turn their match took. Andrews was clearly disappointed, but smiled back at LeBeau. After all, Leia had no fault on what happened.
Security rushed to the ring in full force, finally separating the two groups of contenders. Keane quickly went to check on Leia who reassured him about her status. Then the Junior Heavyweight champion turned to Andrews and thanked her, apologizing for the turn their match took. Andrews was clearly disappointed, but smiled back at LeBeau. After all, Leia had no fault on what happened.
Singles Match
Henri Black VS Lowri MossHeadline of the night was the most intriguing contest of the night, a match featuring the Riot champion and one of the hottest names in the industry, Lowri Moss. With both Vincent Moretti and Elsa McCarthy trying to sign the Welsh, the Riot general manager was hoping this match would tip the scale in his favor, and Henri was definitely a great test to show her what the orange brand was all about. They started off circling around each other before Henri lunged in and tried to lock up with Lowri who slipped behind his back and used a waistlock takedown to bring the match to the mat. Both of them equally skilled in this department, they traded positions for a couple of minutes, the exchange ending with them standing one in front of the other collecting the applause of the excited fans. A nod between them and they were back at it, locking up in a collar and elbow tie. Only a few seconds in and Henri went for a knee to the stomach, sending Lowri against the ropes and catching her with a leg lariat as she bounced back. He made a quick cover but Moss kicked out in one and when they both were up to their feet, she returned the courtesy with a kick to the guts and an irish whip to send Henri into the corner, where she hit him with a running knee to the face. A sudden discus lariat from the Riot champion broke what had been a substantial equilibrium in the early minutes, allowing Henri to control the next part of the match. He did so with a series of throws, including his trademark triple german suplex on top of several other suplexes. It was a moment of difficulty for the Welsh, looking for an opening that the Riot champion wasn’t leaving her to turn the tides. She managed to create one with a sitout jawbreaker that sent Henri stumbling back in the corner. Lowri went to charge, rocking him with a running back elbow before unleashing the Scarlet Barrage, a barrage of swift, hard hitting knife edge chops and forearms that left Black stunned in the corner. Lowri took a few steps back and went for the Just For Kicks (running yakuza kick) but the champ moved away and quickly slid behind her back and between her legs, lifting her in an electric chair position for the Para Bellum. With an incredible counter Lowri dropped him down with an inverted ddt and ALMOST walked out with the win. Lowri’s kicks were tearing through Henri’s defense, the Riot champion was at the ropes like he had rarely been seen before. He was trying his best to stay away and block them, but the former UG North American champion was on fire. After the Slice Of Heaven springboard enziguri, Lowri waited for Henri to get up to his feet and went for her Breuddwydion Melus (superkick) but the Riot champion stepped aside and took her down with a sweep kick to the leg bearing her weight. And then, with no hesitation, he grabbed her foot and applied the Memento Mori ankle lock, grapevine included. It was a real struggle, and there were moments in that long minute of agony where Lowri thought about giving up. But she kept going, inching closer and closer to the ropes and eventually grabbing the bottom one, interrupting the submission. As she stood up, she was clearly favoring that right leg, the ankle lock clearly did some damage to Moss. Henri tried to capitalize with some kicks to that same leg, forcing the woman on her knees and smashing her with the Black Sacrament. Not even that could keep her down. The fight continued, Henri appeared to be in control. But then, out of absolutely nowhere, Moss was behind him and connected the Nos Da rolling cutter, scoring a prestigious win. WINNER: Lowri Moss BY: Pinfall (Nos Da), 22:13 |
MENTV Championship Match
Pierce Manning (c) VS Dean SmithAmy Maynard: “This is it, the last obstacle in Pierce Manning’s way, the fifth and final defence of his MENTV championship.” Sir Figgles: “If he can get the job done in fifteen minutes..” Amy Maynard: “Actually, Vincent Moretti said it on twitter. It’s fifteen minutes or TV time remaining. And we have a little over twenty minutes…” Sir Figgles: “Well, let’s not waste anymore time then and get this going.” Dean and Pierce met in the middle of the ring where Manning handed the title over to the referee who raised it in the air. Confidently, Pierce told him that he won’t need it back at the end of the match, and kissed the title goodbye as the official handed it over to the timekeeper. The bell sounded, Pierce offered a handshake to Dean who looked unsure about it, Pierce insisted until Smith finally shook it, despite the fans advising him against. And he immediately regretted it as he got pulled right into a headbutt to the nose. Manning said something about wasting time and went right on top of Smith to make the cover, but Dean kicked out in two. Amy Maynard: “So long for sportsmanship…” Sir Figgles: “That serves him well, he should have just shook the end right off instead of wasting precious seconds.” Dean rallied up on his feet but Pierce grabbed him by the wrist and whipped him in the corner with all the force he was capable of. Smith hit the turnbuckle with a thud and fell forward on his knees. Manning immediately went for a superkick, catching Dean right on the face and knocking him down. There was a second cover attempt, but once again Smith kicked out. Pierce went in the referee’s face, trying to intimidate and put pressure on the official questioning his slow count. Smith took the chance to roll out of the ring and recover, which didn’t sit well with Manning. Amy Maynard: “Pierce is looking quite nervous tonight.” Sir Figgles: “And rightfully so. He’s wasting his time trying to drag this to a draw like his name is Donovan Keane.” Amy Maynard: “What does Donnie have to do with this? On his first encounter with Pierce, the time limit actually favored the current champion.” Sir Figgles: “Don’t try and bring your logic in this woman. I had to commentate one match with him and I learned to hate the guy.” Dean let Manning chase him around the ring, suddenly sliding under the bottom rope and getting back in. Pierce followed suit, entering the ring right when Dean hit the ropes on the opposite side, launching himself toward the opponent with a diving shoulder tackle. The former Invictus champion sat on Pierce’s chest and rained down a flurry of punches to his face. Some of them, according to the referee, were closed fists and the referee pulled the two contestants apart to warn Smith against using them. Dean professed his innocence and as soon as the ref left him off the hook, he went back on the attack, this time targeting the back of Manning’s head as the MENTV champion was crawling toward the ropes. When he eventually reached them, Smith let him go. Amy Maynard: “A very aggressive start from Dean tonight, I haven’t seen him this focused in a long time.” Dean showed off his array of suplexes, honorable mentions go to the butterfly and the gutwrench variations, technically flawless. But the first close call for the champion came after Dean hit the fireman’s carry double knee gutbuster, from which Pierce kicked out in two and half. Smith dragged him into the corner and was about to introduce his face to the turnbuckle but Manning pointed his foot on the middle rope and blocked the attempt, using his elbow to get free of his grasp. He then launched him over the top rope, watching as he landed on the concrete floor with a thud. He asked the referee to count him out, taking this time to recover. At six Dean was up, at seven he was sliding back under the bottom rope and getting kicked to the head by Pierce, who then dragged him up to his feet and drilled him with a brainbuster. Once again, Smith kicked out in time. Amy Maynard: “If this was a regular MENTV championship match, Manning would have exactly one minute and forty second to beat his opponent. Luckily for him, he gets some extra time tonight.” Sir Figgles: “He won’t need it, look at Dean, he’s on his last leg…” He looked to be, but he used that leg to absolutely flatten the champion with a big savate kick. And from that moment on it was a showcase of Dean’s hardest strikes, from the throat strikes to the spinning backfist, to hard kicks to the chest to the uppercuts in the corner. Manning was down, slowly pulling himself up to his feet, completely unaware that Dean was already perching on the top rope. And he jumped, striking from above with the Mean Dean, connecting with the knee to the side of Pierce’s head and knocking him down. Amy Maynard: “He connected! This might be over!” The referee’s hand hit the mat. Once. Twice. The third time it stopped inches away from the canvas, and Dean couldn’t believe it. He didn’t waste time in pointless arguments with the referee but immediately went for a full nelson slam. Pierce slipped away and quickly caught Smith with an inside cradle. The challenger kicked out in time but ate a nasty kick to the face right after. And then The Man set him up for the TBTM, sealing the fifth defense and heading into Domino Effect to challenge Henri Black. WINNER: Pierce Manning (STILL MENTV CHAMPION) BY: Pinfall (TBTM), 19:03 |
Amy Maynard:
He did it! Pierce defended his title five times and has now earned a shot at the Riot championship!
Sir Figgles:
Did you ever doubt it?
Amy Maynard:
No, but I do have a doubt now. And I'm sure Pierce is wondering the same.
Sir Figgles:
What are you talking about?
Amy Maynard:
Well, he earned a shot at the Riot championship, right? But Lowri Moss just beat Henri Black, I can see Vincent offering her the same deal, another match against Henri this time with the title on the line.
Sir Figgles:
She can get in line. Pierce was here first.
Amy Maynard:
That's beside the point. They both have their claims on the Riot championship, and while she's not contracted to Riot, a one on one title match could convince her to put her name on the dotted line. Maybe a triple threat could work as well, but...
Sir Figgles:
Just have Henri defend it twice. I would love to see him losing the title twice.
Amy Maynard:
I... Don't think that's how it works. But you make a goof point, the title can be defended on both nights. Which opens to another question, who goes f...
Sir Figgles:
Let the old man fix this thing, that's why he's paid so well.
Amy Maynard:
There's surely a lot to think about for Moretti. But our time is up, see you all at Domino Effect in two weeks!
He did it! Pierce defended his title five times and has now earned a shot at the Riot championship!
Sir Figgles:
Did you ever doubt it?
Amy Maynard:
No, but I do have a doubt now. And I'm sure Pierce is wondering the same.
Sir Figgles:
What are you talking about?
Amy Maynard:
Well, he earned a shot at the Riot championship, right? But Lowri Moss just beat Henri Black, I can see Vincent offering her the same deal, another match against Henri this time with the title on the line.
Sir Figgles:
She can get in line. Pierce was here first.
Amy Maynard:
That's beside the point. They both have their claims on the Riot championship, and while she's not contracted to Riot, a one on one title match could convince her to put her name on the dotted line. Maybe a triple threat could work as well, but...
Sir Figgles:
Just have Henri defend it twice. I would love to see him losing the title twice.
Amy Maynard:
I... Don't think that's how it works. But you make a goof point, the title can be defended on both nights. Which opens to another question, who goes f...
Sir Figgles:
Let the old man fix this thing, that's why he's paid so well.
Amy Maynard:
There's surely a lot to think about for Moretti. But our time is up, see you all at Domino Effect in two weeks!