[Cut to raw footage.]

[What you are about to see took place over an hour ago.]

[Up.]

[Thomas Bane shoulders his black duffel bag as he weaves through the cluttered backstage area. After a countless “good luck tonight’s” and pats on the back, Thomas looks like one who is ready to find his locker room and collapse on one of those benches. Judging by the clock on the wall, he’s very early for his match. After some trouble, Thomas locates his designated room and enters to find it completely devoid of light. At this early point in the night, he doesn’t mind the darkness and probes with his hands to find a bench to sit on. With a flick of the wrist, he slides his bag to the side and leans against the wall. For the first time in days, Thomas is finally alone. No media, no fans, no training. Just him. ]

Bane: [To himself] “This is it.”

Voice: “Do you always talk to yourself like that?”

[As you can expect, the voice emitting from the shadows startles the Hawaiian noticeably. Past experience taught Thomas to use his arms to protect his face. He didn’t want another episode like Shockwave to occur.]

[Nothing happens. Bane, still in his defensive posture, allows himself to speak.]

Bane: “Damn. Terry Woods?”

[Were the lighting better, you could see a smirk.]

Voice: “No, someone with a bit more longevity and credibility than Terry Woods."

Bane: “So I can put down my hands?”

Voice: “Go ahead. I’m not quite sure what they’re doing up to begin with.”

[Thomas allows his arms to sink onto his lap as he now searches in the direction of the speaker. As his luck would allow, the area is unusually dark.]

Voice: “I take it that you'd like to know who I am?”

Bane: “That’d be a nice start.”

[The man behind the voice steps out from the “unusually dark” corner and smiles at a speechless Thomas Bane. This man needs no introduction.]

[The Only Star.]

[Eric Dane.]

[Thomas quickly stands on his feet and offers his palm out to the legend. Dane accepts the gesture, but his face remains indifferent. Once the somewhat friendly handshake is done, Thomas takes a few backward steps.]

Dane: “I’m can only hope that I don't have to introduce myself.”

[Thomas nods.]

Bane: “It’s nice to finally meet you.”

Dane: “You’d be in the minority, I’m sure. However, be careful about making quick assumptions. How about you wait until the night is concluded to decide whether or not it was nice to make my acquaintance.”

[Dane finds it difficult to conceal a knowing smile, while Thomas’ brow furrows.]

Dane: “Listen, I just wanted to say good luck to you in your attempt to win that ten pound strap of leather and gold that I’ve held four times. Let me tell you something though: Once you win it, it’s excruciatingly difficult to live without.”

Bane: “Thanks. I’m sure it’s hard once you’ve tasted the glory of winning the championship and all. ”

[Eric Dane steps forward and leans towards Bane’s ear, as if he doesn’t want anyone else to hear.]

Dane: [Whispering] “I’m here to help in any…way… that I can.”

[With a laugh and a pat on Thomas’ chest, Dane confidently walks towards the door. Before he places his hand on the doorknob, he turns around to face Thomas.]

Dane: “Don’t forget what I told you about assumptions, Tommy.”

[With that, he leaves the room. Thomas Bane continues to look at the door as he desperately tries to contemplate Dane’s last set of words.]

[The popping fans packed into Ravenhill Stadium, Belfast are in darkness except for the orange, green and white spotlights that dance across them.]

[Several of the paying public have signs showing their appreciation of David Paige & Thomas Bane, there are also signs of a less supportive nature aimed at Chris Egerton, Jake Devins & the Texas Outlaws.]

[At the announcer’s table the Wrestling Republic dynamic duo; comprised of former two time WWA Tag Champion, James Keiler & shapely former weather girl, with fiery hair, Kelly Doyley are sat.]

James Keiler: Welcome wrestling fans from Ireland, America, Mexico, Canada, Europe & further a field, tonight is a historic night as for the first time the eyes of the WWA are focused solely on the Emerald Isle!

[Breath from the WR owner, as Doyley’s attempting to pick a spot on her cheek that she’s discovered.]

Keiler: I’m James Keiler, alongside my partner in crime Kelly Doyley we’ll be calling the shots from ringside here in Ravenhill Stadium, Belfast in what promises to be a hell of a night of action, don’t you agree Kel?

[Doyley finally pays attention, ignoring the blemish on her pale complexion.]

Kelly Doyley: It’d better fucking rock, we’ve got action from every corner of the WWA, right boss?

Keiler: Certainly have, we’re hosting matches from OLW, AWA, OCW & WR. Not to mention the finals of the Summit and every WWA title being on the line. Competitors from UTA, HRW, ACW & WCWA are also booked. This show has it all.

Doyley: I’m hoping for blood, landlubber, you know that.

Keiler: Well I’m sure you won’t be disappointed, carrot top, there’s a lot at stake in every match tonight. I’ve wrestled at WWA PPV’s and you know if you are going to perform on one night every 3 months during your career, if you’re lucky enough to make the show, you perform on these shows. This is where the legends etch their name in stone, this is where stars can be born.

Doyley: So what guys are you looking at to catapult themselves to superstardom?

Keiler: That’s the thing Kel, every man on this show has that chance, only one or two will claim the opportunity. Seize the chance.

Doyley: Don’t park your posterior forever on the fence, landlubber, make a prediction. Go out on a limb.

Keiler: OK, well obviously I’d like for the WR guys to do well, but Jimmy Riley the guys been around the WWA a while, he’s got a chance tonight to push himself into the world title picture. It could be his night to hit superstardom. But there are allot of guys out there, who aren’t known too well outside their home region. This is their chance. Win it, or bin it.

Doyley: OK so, umm, what’s up first?

Keiler: First match on the show is an OCW Women’s Title Match. Janice St. Martins v Alexis Martinez.

Doyley: Want me to call ‘em out?

Keiler: No.

[Doyley frowns, usually, with the budget tight in the WWA’s Irish Region she not only calls the matches in her own special style, she also welcomes the competitors to the ring.]

Keiler: I don’t want you on double duty for the biggest night in the history of WR, my wife’s agreed to do the honors.

[With a wink & a hand gesture, Keiler ushers his wife Harjinder towards the ring.]

Doyley: I’m getting full pay, still, right?

[Clad head-to-toe in black leather, the slinky Asian woman enters the ring. Doyley wears a face of rage.]

Keiler: Kel, tonight you’re on triple time, courtesy of the World Wrestling Alliance.

[Doyley smirks.]

Doyley: OK, that works for me. But she’d better be good!

Keiler: She will be.

[Welcome to I-Wars everyone.]

[I'm proud to introduce to you the first and best thing you will see all day.]

[Enter Calib Wallace.]

[We see him stroll in with his best friend, and tag partner, Fury on his side. The both come clad in typical street clothes, with there gimmick bags over there shoulder's. They smirk as they notice a camera at there side.]

Wallace: What's up over there? I'm glad you could see something worth watching to get this party rolling. It wouldn't have been as fun if you would have gotten some jobbers like Khalid Jad or Thomas Bane to start you off.

Fury: Better yet, some yahoo’s like Sam Horrey or Code.

Wallace: Exactly, why would you wanna see a couple of guys that have belts that should be mine?

[Wallace nods to the camera, as the duo stops for a minute.]

Wallace: Tonight I'm going to make sure that nothing stands in the way of us taking over this industry. After we win, and take my AWA Title back from Horrey, Fury keeps his at his waist, and I get my point across with the Champion, whoever it may be at the end of the show, this is the night that the Team Wallace camp comes away.

Fury: Just make sure you all watch, because this won't be for the typical fan. This will be something to remember.

Wallace: Jad, Bane, once I win, and I show up later in some capacity, be it in the Main Event, locker room, next week, whenever, I will make sure you realize that you’re just holding The Wallace Heavyweight Title around your side. Remember that, because I'm not pulling any punches from hear on out.

[They continue to walk as Fury just stops and smacks his gum between his teeth, smiling at the camera.]

Fury: It's nice ain't it?

[He rubs his strap before smacking the gum once again and walking off screen.]

[Welcome to I-Wars everyone.]

[Welcome to the start of the Calib Wallace era.]

[Fade.]

[The sound of Megadeth roars through the Ravenhill Stadium, only a few know this sound from the land across the water. Only those few erupt in serious jeers. Soon enough the whole stadium is following suit, some are standing up ready with their arsenal of drinks and trash. Out steps The Dark Horse.]

[From his back pocket he retrieves his instrument of choice, the microphone. With a large grin he raises it to his face.]

“Tonight, at I-Wars you are going to see the greatest talent in the history of the WWA. Tonight you are going to see wars fought inside of that very ring, blood, sweat, and tears will soak that mat.”

[They all lower their weapons, boos and hisses.]

“Tonight you are going to see champions fall and challengers falter on their way to stardom. But…”

[His grin turns into a sincere look.]

“You will not see me in action.”

[He takes only a few steps towards the ring when Determined begins to beat from the speakers and out comes Sloan’s reluctant partner in crime… James… Alec… Xander. Mike begins to smile. He takes the mic from Mike.]

“TTO…”

[These two have been a team for a month now, defeating two of the top tag teams in WCWA including the WCWA Tag Champs. Xander continues.]

“You’ve ignored 80 Proof and all of their attempts at getting at your titles. For this I commend you, those two inbreeds hardly deserve to breathe. But, we are not 80 Proof we are two of the most lethal men that has ever walked down a WWA ramp… Mike is a Two Time World Champion and I am a former WWA TV champion in my own right.”

[This is the most Xander has ever been on the mic, and Sloan loves it.]

“Tonight we make our group public. TTO… You have no where to go. When we find you, when we finally get to corner you in that ring … your gold will become ours!”

[James hands the microphone back to Mike Sloan.]

“Well, James you’ve just spoiled part of my news for I-Wars, but none the less I will finish it up.”

[He pauses.]

“Tonight in Belfast, Ireland Mike Sloan is not scheduled to be on the card but what you will see is Mike Sloan bringing his fight to the front lines of the WWA.”

[He grins.]

“In the past months I have seen a superstar like Christian Light lose to an undeserving brat in Khalid Jad.”

[Boos erupt, they have been following this kid since his first day and they do not like the sound of Mike Sloan disrespecting one of the few heroes left in the WWA.]

“Tonight I will begin to educate the WWA on how to treat their veteran talent. Not to just toss us to the side because we have been the staple of the organization since it’s birth. But, to give us the respect we deserve!”

[He looks into the crowd. He drops the microphone.]

“TTO…WWA… Mike Sloan is back and he’s brought more demons with him this time around. Tonight, you will all meet my friends.”

[He tosses the mic to the ground and walks back.]

Keiler: “And now, we have word that current WR Emerald Isle Champion ‘Irish Fire’ David Paige has just arrived at the arena. He asked for a brief moment to speak to the crowd. We go to him now, live.”

David Paige is outside the arena, wearing his typical street clothes of a three-piece suit without a tie. His duffel bag is lying beside him. The buzz of the crowd can be heard from even this far outside, and the buzz get noticeably louder when the Irish crowd realizes Paige is on screen. He visibly smiles a little at hearing that. There is a brief pause, and the air can be heard whistling by.

Paige: “This is it, the beginning of the new chapter of David Paige and the Wrestling Republic. I am speaking here to two completely different audiences, and am thus forced to split my message into two to represent and respect these two factions. First, there are those fans who just now cheered when they saw my image, the Irish fans, the followers of the Wrestling Republic, that religiously dedicated element that has thus far bestowed upon me my success. Second, there are the fans from abroad, from the United States, from the world, who might know nothing about Irish Fire, or the Wrestling Republic. I will be speaking to you as well.

“To our already loyal fans, I want you all to pause for a moment and bask in the applause that is all around you. Because that is not just applause for the WR, but you all as well. We are equal in the spectacle, parts of it, cogs in its machinery, and when the machine has come to triumph, we are all part of the reward. The WR has been selected to represent the world-wide WWA at this PPV, this is the time for us, fans, performers, and backstage operators to put their all into putting on the best show possible for the world. You can have a guarantee that David Paige is going to be playing his part to the fullest to extend the glory of the WR.

“Which leads us to our second audience, the first-comers, the foreign audiences of the AWA, the ACW, the HRW, the UTA, the WCWA, the OLW, and the OCW who are here to see their heroes step up to the plate in our home turf. In coming to watch your champions fight and defend their glory, you will come to witness the glory of each other, but most of all, you will witness our federation. Tonight we have brought three of our finest competitors into this PPV to show off the skills inherent every week in the WR. Tonight, I will be facing Chris Egerton for the Emerald Isle title, in a match that will define the legacy of this federation. You will then see Jake Devins take the Double Crown title from Python.

“I hope you are all watching closely to these two matches because you are all going to be part of the machine. Welcome to the Wrestling Republic.”

v/o: "We are TTO and that is all you need to know."

That only means one thing, that the TTO is about to make an appearance in front of the capacity crowd making up Ravenhill Stadium. The first to appear are the world tag team champions of Terry Norris and Bobby Blood. As they stand there, soaking up the chorus of boos, it isn't long before Sean and Pamela Duke-Jackson also make their appearance.

With the tag titles firmly around their waist, Terry Norris and Bobby Blood are wearing blue jeans, black TTO t-shirts, and cowboy boots. Sean Jackson, who wasn't scheduled to wrestle decided to wear an Armani suit with the Texas Heritage Title over his shoulder, and Pamela an elegant evening dress.

As they make their way towards the ring, they ignore the boos and most importantly the insults that are being thrown their way. It had been a long time since the TTO made an appearance in Ireland, and they wanted to make this particular trip very special. Knowing that once they stepped into the ring it was going to get ugly, they decided to give this Irish crowd a good reason to dislike them.

As they stepped into the ring, Pamela Duke-Jackson takes out a house mic and begins talking.

Pamela: "So this is Belfast, Ireland?"

Cheap pop.

Pamela: "No wonder we avoided Ireland like the plague during our world wind tour."

Cheap pop turns to heel heat.

Pamela: "Why boo us? For the first time since the last time we were here, you actually have REAL CHAMPIONS to cheer."

More boos.

Pamela: "Yea, whatever. Anyway, the reason why we are out here is to show you people what legitimate champions look like. I mean, I've had a chance to look over the champions here in Ireland..."

She shakes her head in disappointment.

Pamela: "And I've got to say that we're not impressed. First off, you've got that 400 pound goof as your heavyweight champion..."

Obviously she's talking about John Henry.

Pamela: "Who couldn't spell the word cat if you spotted him the c and the a..."

The boos are now deafening. They love John Henry in Ireland.

Pamela: "But yet, there he is, the Wrestling Republic's Heavyweight Champion. Let me ask you people one simple question..."

She begins to pace as the rest of the TTO just stands there.

Pamela: "Just what ARE the standards to be a champion in Ireland? I mean, it's obvious that you only need to have a third grade education to be the champion here, but do you need to have a translator as well? I've sat back and tried to understand EVERY interview that John Henry has EVER given..."

She stops pacing.

Pamela: "But came to the realization that the only way to understand that retard is to be three sheets to the wind drunk. So if to be retarded is the only criteria that you people have, then anyone can be champion here..."

Now Pamela points back towards the TTO.

Pamela: "But that's NOT the criteria for the TTO. To be a champion in the TTO? You have to be strong, you have to be fast, and you have to be intelligent. But most of all, you have to be in possession of THESE..."

Terry Norris and Bobby Blood hold up the world tag team titles while Sean Jackson holds up the Texas Heritage Title.

Pamela: "Which is something that NOBODY in Wrestling Republic would EVER be able to get their hands on."

The TTO place their belts over their shoulders, and continue to look on with total confidence as Pamela continues to speak.

Pamela: "Not only that, but you people also seem to be confused on what football really is."

That sparks another huge uproar from the Irish fans. You might can insult their wrestlers, but don't insult their football.

Pamela: "What you people play inside this stadium is NOT football. It's not even remote close to football. It looks something similar to hockey, but without the ice..."

She stops, looking ready to correct herself.

Pamela: "Wait, how in the hell can I insult the sport of Hockey? Hockey is way more interesting than the crap you people play in here..."

Debris begins to fly towards the ring.

Pamela: "Do you people play ANYTHING around here that requires higher standards?"

She shrugs her shoulders.

Pamela: "I mean really?"

She looks over at Terry Norris.

Pamela: "Tell them how they are going to see true champions at work tonight Terry."

Pamela hands him the mic, and he wastes little time picking up where Pamela left off.

Norris: "James Keiler, you ought to be ashamed of yourself. As a former two time WWA world tag team champion, you should require a higher standard than what you have. I mean hell, Brother Smith and Adam Burke as tag team champions?

Terry gives an obvious smirk as he continues.

Norris: "What is with this sinner and saint tag team deal anyways?"

He shrugs.

Norris: "Is that just another way of saying that you don't know what the fuck you're doing?

Terry leans on the top rope.

Norris: "Or are you following in the same fashion of the WWA Championship Committee?"

We are sure that an elaboration is forth coming.

Norris: "I mean, when looking at the tag teams that the WWA has put in front of us, it's almost comedic on how we've run through each and every one of them. So much that we thought for sure that the WWA would use International Wars 2007 to put the biggest, baddest, most dominant tag team in the world against us..."

Inhale / exhale

Norris: "But instead, we get a tag team called the Conspiracy?"

There is a momentary pause as Terry doesn't say a word. He just stands there, letting that last statement sink in to the capacity crowd. After a few moments, he decides to continue with that thought.

Norris: "I-Wars, one of the biggest PPV's of the year, and we defend the belts against a team called the Conspiracy? Do you see NOW why we're harping on this whole low standard deal that you have here in Ireland?"

More boos.

Norris: "James Keiler, if I was you, I wouldn't even subject these fans to a world tag title match involving those guys. I mean, you know damn good and well that there's no way these guys could EVER defeat the TTO. We are the three best wrestlers in this business, and even though it is Bobby and I with the belts, if they think that a third member can just step in and cost us the belts..."

Terry points over his shoulder, and in the direction of Sean Jackson.

Norris: "Then they've got another thing coming. Because as was the case with the Southern Kingz, Team Elite, and every other tag team that thought they had what it took..."

Terry slaps the face plate of his championship belt.

Norris: "The numbers game will NEVER be against us. Give them a run down Bobby."

Terry Norris hands the mic off to Bobby Blood, who continues with the same message started by his tag team partner.

Blood: "Conspiracy, don't think for one second that you guys have anywhere close to what it takes. We were winning championships here in the WWA when you guys were still in the bush leagues, trying to figure out a wrist lock from a wrist watch. Besides, we've run through every great team that the WWA has to offer, and yet, here we stand, STILL world tag team champions. Now don't get us wrong, even we can appreciate a team who wants to show what they're made of..."

Bobby pauses for a moment, he wants to continue talking about the Conspiracy, but there is another tag team that he is thinking of...

Obsessing over...

Superiority Complex.

Blood: "But when you want to come out and start using our manager as some sort of side show, then that is where we start to develop a problem. Ryan Blasier, Evan Jansen, we know that you two bastards are either here at the stadium, or at home watching on PPV, so we have a message to send to the two of you..."

Did I say obsessing over?

Blood: "After we get finished destroying the jokes that we're facing tonight, we're going to start looking for you two. We are the best tag team in the world today, and no Johnny-come-lately's like you two are going to change a damn thing. Ryan Blasier, I know that not having a world title around your waist is bothering the crap out of you..."

Blood gives a sadistic smile.

Blood: "But if you couldn't guess, Terry and I don't give a damn about that. As far as we're concerned, you became a has-been the moment that you lost the world heavyweight title to Christian Light, and don't even deserve to be in the same ring with us..."

The smile quickly disappears.

Blood: "And as far as Ken Jansen's little sister is concerned, there won't even be enough of you left to challenge for anything. Evan, you've tried your entire life to measure up to Ken and you haven't been able to do it. Well, the next time that I step into the ring with you, I'm going to make sure that you never have to do it again. You've made a mockery of the Jansen name Evan, and I'm going to do Ken a favor by putting you out of his misery."

Confident that he got his point across, Bobby hands the mic off to Sean Jackson, who goes off on a tangent of his own.

Jackson: "Talking about low standards, I can't believe that Thomas Bane was given a world title shot at Khalid Jad."

As if you didn't know, Sean Jackson can't stand Thomas Bane.

Jackson: "I knew that this was Belfast, but for crying out loud, give us a freaking break. Out of everybody in the WWA, the championship committee agreed on Thomas Bane?"

It is borderline hatred.

Jackson: "Hell, why don't you guys just hand him the world title?"

It is easy to detect the frustration in Sean's voice. From day one of his arrival, Thomas Bane has been chosen over Sean Jackson in practically everything.

Jackson: "The WWA's been hanging on the jockstrap of Thomas Bane since his arrival, and I for one am sick of it. He's not done a damn thing for the WWA, but yet here they are, giving him a shot at the world title like he's actually deserved it. Well let me ask a simple question? Just what in the hell has Thomas Bane done for the WWA?"

With anger in his voice, Sean now begins to pace.

Jackson: "I'll tell you what he's done..."

He stops pacing.

Jackson: "Not a damn thing. He's not done ANYTHING for the WWA. So he was handed the Texas Heritage Title in OCW, which was the reason why he was chosen to receive a title shot at Jad in the first place. But now there is one little problem with all of that..."

Sean holds up said Texas Heritage Title.

Jackson: "I'm the God damned Texas Heritage Champion. So by right, that world heavyweight title shot at Jad should belong to me. Yea that's right, I said it..."

Sean hocks a loogie and spits it on the stadium ground.

Jackson: "The title shot should belong to me. But because of backstage politics, that Hawaiian little bastard still gets the shot. Well Bane, you had better hope that security isn't a little laxed, and someone slips into your dressing room without you knowing about it. Because the way that terrorism is today, you'll just never know when one of those Al-Qaeda guys are going to wander in and slit your throat..."

Sean gives that shit eating grin.

Jackson: "Isn't that right Khalid Jad?"

The grin disappears.

Jackson: "You are Iraqi, aren't you?

Sean shrugs.

Jackson: "Just wondering."

Sean flips the bird in the direction of the camera.

Jackson: "By the way, this wouldn't happen to be a ladder match, would it?"

With that, Sean drops the mic on the mat and the entire TTO leaves the ring.

[Danny Vicious stands against a plain wall. He's dressed for the ring already, with his black boots and black trunks with gold trim. There's now an Untouchables patch on the right thigh of his short trunks. Also, in replace of his usual baby blue Tar Heels jersey is an OLW Untouchables t-shirt. However, being the creature of habit he is, Danny is still wearing his silver Oakley shades, baby blue Tar Heels cap, and tucked up under the cap, his white bandana. To his left, Raj Patel stands ready with a microphone. Vicious looks down on Raj, only to smirk and look back up at the camera.]

Patel: Raj Patel here backstage at International Wars. I'm here with the number one contender to the OLW Heavyweight title, "The Sensation" Danny Vicious. Danny, tonight you step...

[Danny raises a hand to cut Raj off.]

Vicious: What the hell did you say your name was?

[Raj looks at Danny confused.]

Patel: Raj Patel.

Vicious: What in the hell kind of name is that?

Patel: Well...

[Vicious waves his hand at Raj again.]

Vicious: Wait. I heard the name Patel on a Russell Peters DVD. He was making fun of some guy for it. Apparently it's a very common Indian last name.

Patel: Yes, actually, it...

[Danny waves his hand again. Raj sighs.]

Vicious: It doesn't SOUND Indian. Don't Indian's have names like Crazy Horse and stuff?

[Raj chuckles.]

Patel: Actually, it's Indian, as in from India, not Indian as in Native American.

[Danny frowns.]

Vicious: Indiana? You don't LOOK American...

[Raj sighs again. He's laughing lightly, but probably also very frustrated.]

Patel: I'm not. I'm Indian.

Vicious: Whatever. You're just trying to screw with me because I'm Canadian. Let's just get this interview over with, ok?

Patel: My sentiments exactly. Danny, tonight you're facing Cole Christenson for the OLW title. After Cole beat you in the War Games match at End of the Line, do you have any direct plans to defeat Cole this time around?

Vicious: Well Raj, for one, I won't have been in the ring for what feels like an eternity this time. We both step into the ring fresh, and Cole can't handle that. Neither can these nitwit fans here in Belfast. You know, I used to know a guy from around these parts. Chris Redpath. Went by the wrestling name Mr. Dude. Probably quite popular around these parts.

[Danny slowly lifts the microphone from Raj's hand. Raj steps back, visibly unhappy by being pushed back during his interview.]

Vicious: See, Redpath had a dream. He called his dream "The Untouchables". Sure, there've been some copies, but nothing like Chris' group. Then, for no apparent reason, he bastardized his child. That's right. Mr. Dude, hero to all of Ireland, couldn't handle what he created. So he dumped it. And when he did, he took the part of me that fought for what the Untouchables believed in, and he dumped that too! REDPATH! IRELAND! Well let me tell you assholes something!

[Danny steps forward and removes his shades. His eyes blaze with anger, and he nearly stares a hole in the camera.]

Vicious: (whispering) We're back. We're back.

[Danny's voice gets progressively louder.] We're back. We're back! We're back WE'RE BACK WE'RE FUCKING BACK!!!! But only the best of the bunch! Only a group that can live up to the name Untouchable! ONLY THOSE WHO RIGHTFULLY SHOULD BE CARRYING THE NAME AND LEGACY ON OUR SHOULDERS!!!!!

[Danny begins bouncing up and down and laughing hysterically.]

Vicious: HAHAHAHAHAHA!!! OLW! COLE CHRISTENSON BEWARE! PYTHON BEWARE! HEIDI, RIPPER LONGSHANKS, CHILDREN OF THE DAMNED!! BEWARE! WFWA! THOMAS BANE! LONOPELE! CHRIS EGERTON! RIZZO! SOULTAKER! PSYCHO STEVE! CHRIS STRATFORD! TJ KILLINGBECK! SAM CARNAGE! CHRISTIAN LIGHT! RAJ FUCKING PATEL!!! BEWARE!!!

[Danny looks back at Raj and laughs again. Then he turns back to the camera.]

Vicious: But especially Cole Christenson, beware. Beware, Cole. Danny Vicious, the big, bad Danimal, is comin' for ya, baby. And tonight, you'll find out why, I am truly Untouchable.

[Danny turns and hands the mic back to Raj. Vicious laughs, pats Raj on the back, and walks off the screen. Raj adjusts himself accordingly and regains his composure, turning back to the camera.]

Patel: Ladies and gentlemen, "The Sensation" Danny Vicious.

[Raj lowers the mic and shakes his head as the camera cuts away.]

[The door swings open and Alexis Martinez walks out the door with a frown on her face. She walks over to Asian interviewer Raj Patel, who’s awaiting either of the Wrestling Republic’s stars in Chris Egerton or David Paige for an interview before their upcoming match. Alexis grabs him by his shoulder and spins him around like a top.]

Alexis: “I can’t believe it! Can you believe that stupid airport lost my luggage?”

[Raj has a blank look on his face as he doesn’t know what to say to her.]

Raj: “I’m sorry to hear that Ms. Martinez.”

Alexis: “Darlin’ don’t you call me Ms. Martinez! I’m not old; I’m still a young philly!”

Raj: “My apologies Alexis.”

Alexis: “Janice St. Martins, I reckon you probably had somethin’ to do with my luggage bein’ missin’, just so you know, tonight not only are you goin’ to have to watch out for that there bull rope, your also better be lookin’ for my fists!”

[Alexis holds up her clinched fists.]

Alexis: “I’m’ goin’ back in that locker room and I’m goin’ to tape up my fists, cause I’m goin’ to beat you to a bloody pulp tonight! This is going to be history makin’, you can bet on that!”

[Raj nods his head along with what Alexis’ saying just to make sure she doesn’t come after him.]

Alexis: “Tonight’s goin’ to be the downfall of your career here in Ireland Janice! If you can picture torture that’s nothin’ like what you’ll feel, I promise! So get ready to know who’s who in the OCW’s women’s division!”

[Alexis turns her back to Raj and walks back in her dressing room.]

Raj: “Well, I guess she’s on the warpath, or it’s just that time of the month.”

[The camera fades out.]

Keiler: Ladies and Gentlemen all around the world, I once again welcome you all to the 2007 edition of the World Wrestling Alliance’s International Wars.

Doyley: Did you know that if you bought a man a couple of rounds of Guinness around here, he’ll take you home for the night?

Keiler: And what would your boyfriend say about that?

Doyley: Uhh…I didn’t say I did it, I just heard it from some of the girls.

Keiler: Anyway, these ladies here have come all the way from Outlaw Championship Wrestling to bring you the OCW Stampede Women’s Championship Match between top contenders, “The Louisiana Wildcat” Janice St. Martins and “The Texas Terror” Alexis Martinez.

Doyley: The title has been vacant since it was stripped from former champion, Kali. Well, one of these two hellions is going to walk away with it tonight.

Keiler: But, it couldn’t be that simple. We got a vacant title and two women that just don’t like each other, so our boss decided to have them settle it in a good ole fashioned Texas Bull Rope Match.

Doyley: And if you have never seen our Lady Outlaws in a fight, you are in for a treat.

Keiler: Care to explain to the great fans of Northern Ireland what a Texas Bull Rope Match is?

Doyley: When two guys have some issues in the ring that need to be solved, they broke out this thick rope with a cowbell in the middle of it that has been known to split a few people open. You strap them on opposite ends of the rope and they keep going until someone gets dragged to all four corners or they get pinned. This will be the first time that two women have ever gone to the bull rope. This will not be pretty by any means.

Keiler: And here with us for this trip is the lovely Harjinder Keiler.

Doyley: Ok, ok. Let's get to it already

Harjinder: The following OCW Women’s Match is for the OCW Stampede Women’s Championship and will be contested under Texas Bull Rope Rules. Introducing first, she hails from Abilene, TX and weighs in at 124 lbs. She will be accompanied to the ring by Pamela-Duke Jackson, she is Alexis MARTINEZ!!!!!!!

[”What’s Your Fantasy Remix” by Ludacris explodes onto the sound system, as Alexis comes out wearing her white cutoff wife beater, cutoff blue jean booty shorts and black wrestling boots while being followed by Pamela Duke-Jackson. She waves at the crowd as she heads to the ring for her match.]

Keiler: Alexis looks ready for tonight. She definitely put in her time in the gym and looks hungry to win this match.

Doyley: I would think so. Alexis put Janice on notice by laying her out twice in back to back editions of Stampede. This is her time to shine.

Keiler: There’s just one problem. Alexis has yet to beat Janice in a match. That has to be running through her mind.

Doyley: But, with Pamela Duke-Jackson in her corner, Alexis has nothing to worry about.

Harjinder: And her opponent. Weighing in at 125 lbs and hailing from New Orleans, Louisiana. She is "The Louisiana Wildcat" Janice ST. MARTINS!!!!

#CAN I GET A BIG HELL YEAH FROM ALL THE REDNECK WOMEN OUT THERE!!!!!

[After that voiceover, there's a loud cat's growl over the PA system as Gretchen Wilson's "Redneck Woman" starts to blare throughout the arena. Then, to an explosion of cheers the curtain parts, and out walks the Wildcat holding the bull rope and smacks the cowbell against the barricade. She’s wearing blue jeans, black knee pads, a black/red tied-up "Hardcore Redneck" t-shirt, taped fists and snakeskin cowboy boots with her hair in a ponytail under a black cowboy hat as she smacks hands with the fans before stepping into the ring.]

Keiler: Janice has had nothing but this match on her mind. She wants to win the title in the ring instead of being handed to her. That says a lot.

Doyley: Yeah, it says that she is a damn moron. How can one just reject free gold? Janice didn’t have to beat Kali for it. She should have just taken the gold and run.

Keiler: That’s not Janice’s way. She has never run from a fight and she’s not going to start now. You knock her down, she will just keeping getting up to fight some more. That’s why she was the very first OCW Women’s Champion and she might very well be the next Women’s Champion tonight.

[Janice takes her cowboy hat off and throws it to the ring attendant while she calmly paces around while one ref straps one end of the rope to the wrist of Alexis while the other ref finally hooks the other end to Janice as the bell rings.]

[Ding…Ding…Ding!!!]

[Alexis looks around while Janice just looks very pleased. Alexis tries to grab up some slack but Janice buries a boot to the midsection before dropping a forearm over the neck and shoulders. Janice connects with another forearm that drops Alexis to one knee. Janice picks Alexis up by the hair and connects with a vicious breast edge chop before she whips her into the ropes and goes for a big boot but Alexis ducks under and comes back with a spear.]

Keiler: Alexis better go for more offense than that or Janice is going to turn her into an Irish Carbomb on the road somewhere.

[Alexis gets on top of Janice and pummels away at the face of Janice. The ref tries to pull Alexis off of Janice but Alexis continues to fire away with right hands until she backs away. Janice takes a moment or two before getting back to her feet when Alexis grabs the cowbell and waits for Janice to get to her feet before nailing her in the forehead with the cowbell.]

Doyley: DING DONG!!!

Keiler: It didn’t take Alexis too long to go for the cowbell and Janice is hearing bells now

[Janice tries to get back to her feet when Alexis nails her with another shot to the forehead before going for the cover.]

1...

2...

Doyley: Janice kicks out of the first pinfall attempt.

[Janice kicks Alexis off of her and tries to get to her feet. Alexis hits the ropes and goes for a clothesline but Janice grabs Alexis by the throat and throws her into the near corner before she pummels away with lefts and rights to the face before whipping her into the opposite corner and taking her up and over with a back drop. Janice grabs the rope and wraps it around Alexis's throat and twists.]

Keiler: This match is nothing but a brawl and that is right down Janice’s alley.

[Pamela violently smacks the apron while the ref checks on Alexis since she is starting to turn blue. Janice drags Alexis over and tags the first corner.]

Ref: ONE!!!

Doyley: If Janice can tag all four corners, she'll be taking the Women’s Title home with her...

[Janice drags Alexis over to the second corner and tags that one.]

Ref: TWO!!!!

[Janice goes for the third corner but Alexis tries to fight back and Janice turns and stomps away at Alexis before she picks Alexis up. Alexis fights out of the choke and comes back with numerous kicks to the midsection while the ref just waves the tags off. Alexis comes back with a breast-edge chop of her own that backs Janice up. Alexis goes for another chop and Janice just ducks out of the way when Alexis kicks low in the midsection and doubles Janice over.]

Keiler: There’s going to be a pissed off Wildcat in about five seconds.

Doyley: More than likely.

[Alexis grabs the rope and wraps it around Janice's throat before pummeling away with the cowbell to the forehead. Alexis finally lets go and hits the ropes before connecting with a flying forearm and goes for another cover.]

1...

2...

[Janice kicks out while she gasps for air.]

Keiler: Looks like Alexis drew first blood on Janice.

Doyley: Yes, Janice is definitely cut on her forehead.

[Alexis gets to her feet and walks over and tags the first corner.]

Ref: ONE!!!

[Alexis quickly makes it over and tags the second one.]

Ref: TWO!!!

[Alexis goes for the third corner but Janice pulls on the slack on the rope and continues to pull Alexis towards the center of the ring until Janice gets to her feet and charges in with a clothesline, stopping the count.]

Keiler: What was Alexis trying to do?

Doyley: It wasn’t a bad idea. Choke her out with the rope and go for the cover. If you don’t get it, speed tag the corners while your opponent is trying to get their wind back. Pamela has schooled her well.

[Janice picks up a stunned Alexis and throws her to the outside where she quickly follows her and nails her in the jaw with an uppercut while Alexis continues to walk away. Janice yanks on the rope and pulls Alexis into a big boot to the face. Janice looks around and grabs a steel chair before smashing it over the back of Alexis.]

Doyley: I guess Janice likes her chairs al dente’ or something.

Keiler: Shut up!!

[Janice drops the chair and picks Alexis up and delivers another uppercut to Alexis before she pulls Alexis over to the announce table.]

Keiler: I should have figured that they would come over here eventually.

[Janice smashes Alexis headfirst into the table before she backs up and grabs the rope. Alexis tries to stand up when Janice charges in and clotheslines her with the bull rope. Janice wipes away some of the blood from her cut before she continues to stomp away on the skull of Alexis before grabbing another steel chair. Pamela tries to sneak up behind Janice when Janice turns around and takes a swing as Pamela narrowly ducks. Janice waits for Alexis to get up before plastering her in the head with the chair. Janice throws the chair in the ring and grabs the cowbell before smashing it in the forehead of Alexis.]

Keiler: Janice is definitely using that cowbell to her advantage.

Doyley: I must admit that this is kind of interesting. That cowbell is harsh on a woman’s skull.

[Janice spots a camera and pulls Alexis's face into the camera to shows the blood flowing from a cut over Alexis' right eye. Janice throws Alexis back into the ring and follows behind her before climbing up to the second turnbuckle. Alexis tries to get back to her feet while she continues to stumble around before turning around and catches a flying Janice with a powerslam out of nowhere and goes for the quick cover and hooks the leg.]

1...

2...

Keiler: DAMN!! THAT WAS OUT OF NOWHERE!!!!

[Janice kicks out while Alexis slowly gets back to her feet and goes for a wild swing but Janice just sidesteps it and grabs Alexis and brings her down with a side Russian legsweep. Janice leans over and hooks the leg for the cover.]

1...

2...

Doyley: That was close.

[Alexis somehow gets her shoulder up while the ref holds up two fingers in the air. Janice picks her up and whips her into the ropes and goes for a backdrop but Alexis flips over and goes for a clothesline but Janice ducks underneath and runs Alexis into the ropes once again. Janice connects with a back elbow as Alexis goes down hard. Janice picks up Alexis by the hair and whips her into the ropes again and follows her in with another clothesline and sends her over the ropes.]

Keiler: If Alexis doesn't do something, she is going to become Janice's bitch.

[Alexis lands on the ring apron while Janice climbs over the ropes and grabs Alexis by the hair but Alexis comes back with another kick to the midsection and grabs a side headlock and connects with rapid fire punches to the temple to the cut in the forehead of Janice. Alexis grabs Janice and runs her into the ring post. Alexis wipes away some of the blood from her face and wraps the bull rope around Janice and ties her to the ring post and pulls as hard as she can.]

Keiler: Alexis is definitely trying to survive in this match but she has to keep the pressure on her.

[Alexis finally lets go while Janice slumps down to one knee. Alexis walks over to the Timekeeper's table and swipes another chair and measures before taking a swing but Janice ducks under and Alexis gets nothing but ring post while she drops the chair in painful agony. Janice gets back to her feet and connects with a right hand to Alexis and follows with another and gets the remaining of the rope off of her neck. Janice turns Alexis around and grabs a one handed choke before she slams her down to the ground with a choke slam.]

Doyley: What was that about surviving? Because Alexis just got choke slammed back to Texas. There are some thin mats out here but that had to hurt.

[Janice climbs up to the ring apron and plays up to the crowd before she goes for an elbow drop but Alexis rolls out of the way at the last moment. Alexis gets to her feet and quickly stomps away at the head of Janice before picking her up. Alexis shoots her into the steel ring steps as Janice’s back just smacks the steps hard. The crowd is on its feet while Alexis charges in and connects with a basement dropkick that dazes Janice.]

Keiler: Alexis and Janice are showing the world that the women of OCW have as much guts as any man.

Doyley: Guts, yeah, but not too bright.

Keiler: Nothing ventured, nothing gained. If you want to get to the top, you got to fight for your chance.

[Pamela cheers on as Alexis picks up Janice and rolls her back into the ring and quickly follows her in. Alexis climbs up to the second turnbuckle and waits for Janice to get up before leaping off with a missile dropkick to the face of Janice. Alexis goes for the quick cover.]

1...

2...

Keiler: Janice with the kickout. I don’t know how much energy she has left with the loss of blood.

[Janice gets the shoulder up while Alexis argues with the ref about the count. Janice slowly sits up when Alexis sees her out of the corner of her eye and hits the ropes before hitting a running neck snap on Janice. Alexis quickly goes for the cover and hooks the leg.]

1...

2...

[Janice gets the shoulder up once more when Alexis goes for the leg and locks on an ankle lock, but Janice turns over and kicks Alexis off of her. Alexis picks up Janice and whips her into the ropes and goes for a dropkick but Janice holds on to the ropes as Alexis hits the mat hard. Janice picks up Alexis and throws her to the outside. Janice quickly follows her and slams her head against the barricade. Janice grabs Alexis and repeatedly slams her head into the barricade. Janice starts looking around for something and grins when she looks at the table sitting at ringside. Janice picks up Alexis by the bull rope and chokes her with it. Janice lets go of the choke and points to the table. Janice picks up Alexis and tries to throw her onto the table but Alexis comes back with a side Russian legsweep out of nowhere. Alexis gets up and pummels away at Janice with vicious rights to the forehead.]

Doyley: These two are not backing down one inch. This is Alexis’ chance if she can take it.

[The ref tries to get the women back into the ring when Alexis throws Janice onto the announce table and climbs up on top of the table to continue the punishment. Alexis tries to pick Janice up but Janice grabs her by the jean shorts and throws Alexis off of the table.]

Doyley: Janice just continuing to show that ring experience.

[Janice grabs a waist lock and drops Alexis face first onto the announce table. Alexis is trying to gain her balance when Janice delivers a kick to the midsection and follows up with a DDT to the floor. Janice grabs Alexis and throws her into the ring and rolls in afterwards. Janice grabs the slack and wraps the bull rope around Alexis' throat and tries to choke her out before whipping her into the near corner and pummels away with right hand after right hand. Pamela Duke quickly climbs up to the ring apron and screams at Janice. Janice backs off before connecting with a hard right hand to the face of Pamela.]

Keiler: I think that will keep Pamela from trying to get involved in this match.

Doyley: That was not even called for. Janice had no reason to strike Pamela like that.

[Janice catches a thumb to the eye from Alexis. Alexis goes for an Irish whip but Janice reverses the whip and sends Alexis bounces off the ropes. Janice back body drops her onto the mat. Janice goes for the pin.]

1…

2…

Keiler: ALEXIS KICKS OUT!!!

Doyley: That was a close one!

Keiler: Janice almost won the OCW Women’s title for a second time!

[Janice picks Alexis up. Alexis swings wildly as Janice ducks. Janice locks her arms under Alexis’ and goes for a backslide. The referee goes to count.]

1…

2…

Keiler: ALEXIS ROLLS OUT TO THE SIDE!!!

Doyley: Another close move by Janice!

[Janice kicks Alexis in the stomach and hooks her up for a vertical suplex. Janice turns it into an inside cradle. The referee makes the count.]

1…

2…

Keiler: ALEXIS KICKS OUT AGAIN!!!

Doyley: What a great match so far!

[Janice looks at the referee, thinking it was a slow count. Alexis pulls the bull rope, turning Janice around and she levels her with a lariat. Alexis goes for the pin.]

1…

2…

Keiler: JANICE GETS HER RIGHT SHOULDER UP!!!

Doyley: Wow, Alexis Martinez almost just won her first major title! She could be as great as Misty Xiao was a few years ago!

[Alexis can’t believe it; she starts banging on the mat with both hands. Realizing her stupidity she quickly crawls over to Janice and starts landing right hands to her head. Janice gets her arm in the ropes as the referee starts counting.]

1…

[Alexis fires another right into Janice’s head.]

2…

[Alexis grabs the back of Janice’s head with her left hand and pulls it towards herself. Alexis starts biting the bloodied forehead of Janice.]

3…

4…

Keiler: ALEXIS RELEASES HER HOLD ON JANICE!!!

Doyley: What is going on here?

Keiler: These ladies are going to do whatever it takes to win this match!

[Alexis moves Janice closer to the corner. Alexis climbs up to the second turnbuckle and back flips off. Janice rolls out of the way, but Alexis lands on her feet. Janice rolls out of the ring and onto the arena floor.]

Doyley: That was smart thinking by Janice!

Keiler: I can’t believe Alexis isn’t going out to the floor and going after Janice! What is that girl thinking?

1…

2…

[Alexis goes over to the corner and allows Janice to attempt to get back in the ring. Janice bends over to get in the ring.]

WHAPP!!!

[Alexis slaps Janice on the back with the gathered up rope she had in her hands. Janice falls over the second rope and lands on her back in the ring.]

Keiler: That was a real wallop!

Doyley: That’s going to leave a welt on her back!

[Alexis goes over to the downed body of Janice and picks her up. She leans her on the ropes to keep her balance; she wraps the bull rope around her neck. Alexis gets her up shoulder high and has her in a fireman’s carry. Alexis move her feet quickly and drives the back of Janice’s neck into the top turnbuckle. She comes on out and drops Janice down with a Death Valley Driver. Alexis goes for the cover.]

1...

2...

[Janice just barely kicks out while Alexis makes it to her feet and catches Janice with a quick shot to the ribs. Janice goes for a right but Alexis blocks it and grabs Janice by the hair and takes her straight down to the mat with a face slam and goes for the cover.]

1...

2...

[Janice gets the shoulder up while Alexis slowly gets to her feet and tries to figure out how to put the Wildcat away. Alexis grabs Janice and sends her face first into the turnbuckle as the fans could here that smack all over the arena. Alexis starts jawing away at Janice as she repeatedly smashes her head into the turnbuckle as Janice stumbles away bleeding more from the forehead. Alexis grabs Janice and takes her down with a swinging neckbreaker and follows up with a cover.]

1...

2...

3!!!!

Doyley: ALEXIS HAS DONE IT!!!!

Keiler: NO!!! Janice gets the shoulder up.

[Alexis drags Janice over to the first turnbuckle and tags it.]

Ref: ONE!!!!

[Alexis walks over and tags the second corner.]

Ref: TWO!!!!!

Keiler: Alexis is halfway to winning her first title.

[Alexis stomps away on the fallen Janice before dragging her towards the third corner and tags that one.]

Ref: THREE!!!!

Doyley: One more corner and we will have a new Champion.

[Alexis makes her way towards the fourth corner but Janice is blocking it with everything that she's got. Janice finally counters with a southpaw lariat as both women go down. The ref waves off the count. Alexis finally sits up as Janice is getting to her feet. Janice goes after Alexis with a clothesline but Alexis ducks and tries to lift Janice up and slams her down to the mat with a big bodyslam as the fans jump on their feet. Alexis grabs the cowbell and holds it high before she mounts Janice and beats her forehead in with the bell.]

Keiler: Alexis is fighting with everything she's got but can she put Janice away?

Doyley: Both women look like hell but they are still going.

[Both women lay there for a few seconds and in extreme pain. The ref goes and checks Alexis to see if she can still go and nods yes. The ref goes over to Janice and checks on her and she shoves the ref aside and gets back to her feet. She picks up Alexis and slings her to the outside while Janice goes outside and stomps away at Alexis who cannot defend herself. Janice wipes some of the blood off of her face as she picks up Alexis and rams her head into the steel post. Janice delivers another boot to the head before she grabs Alexis by the ears. Janice lifts Alexis up and rams her back first into the barricade as she drops her onto the floor. Janice grabs Alexis and throws her back into the ring and follows her in. Janice picks up Alexis but Alexis counters with a small package.]

1...

2...

Doyley: KICKOUT!

[Janice kicks out and stomps away at Alexis once again. Janice goes over to Alexis who gives her a desperation right hand to the midsection and follows up with another shot but Janice knocks Alexis back down to the mat with a tremendous uppercut. Janice whips Alexis into the ropes and catches her with a spinebuster. Alexis slowly rolls out of the ring as Alexis continues bleeding from the mouth as Janice gives the signal that it's over. Pamela runs over and slips something into her hands.]

Keiler: Rolling out of the ring was Alexis’ only chance.

[The ref continues to check on a very bloody Janice when Pamela slips Alexis a bottle of tex-mex sauce. Janice steps by the ref and tries to pull Alexis in by the rope when Alexis blasts Janice square in the face with the bottle.]

Keiler: OH MY GOD!!!!!

Doyley: The Texas Terror strikes again.

[Janice grabs her face in agony when Alexis crawls back and goes for the cover and hooks the legs.]

1...

Keiler: NO WAY!!! NOT LIKE THIS!!!!

2...

Doyley: I SMELL A NEW CHAMPION IN THE AIR!!!!

3!!!

[The bell rings as the ref raises Alexis’ hand in victory before awarding her with the OCW Stampede Women’s Championship.]

Harjinder: The winner of the match and NEW OCW Stampede Women’s Champion, “The Texas Terror” Alexis MARTINEZ!!!!

Doyley: Janice gave it her best but Alexis just wanted it more.

Keiler: I don’t think we have seen the last of these two.

[The ref is calling for EMT’s to the ring to check on a seriously injured Janice St. Martins while Pamela Duke-Jackson raises the arm of the new champion for all to see.]

Doyley: This had to be one of the craziest Women’s Matches yet!

Keiler: It certainly was, and this was just the opener! We still have a whole entire card to work through!

Doyley: Certainly a good start.

[The door swings open as Calib Wallace steps through.]

[Inside the locker room, Thomas Bane is glued to the television as he watches the Desperate Housewives season two DVD. Calib smiles at the screen, seeing that he too had missed this episode. Excitedly, he rushes in to get a better view.]

Wallace: [to himself] "Sweet."

[Finally Thomas Bane notices another man's presence. This causes him to hurriedly press the ‘power’ button on the remote and turns around sporting his best macho expression. Calib shrugged and puts on his game face as well. ]

Wallace: “What the fuck were you watching?”

[Bane shrugs.]

Bane: “I don’t think we’ve met before.”

[Wallace holds out his palm and shakes it back and forth.]

Wallace: “Naw, hold up. Seriously, what was that?”

Bane: "Desperate Housewives, the television series.”

Wallace: “Bro, that’s lame. Isn’t that some women soap opera? You watching that before your World Title match?”

Bane: “It’s big in Hawaii.”

Wallace: “I’m sure it is, bud. Anyway, you’re right, we haven’t met. I’m Calib Wallace.”

[Thomas Bane stands and extends an open palm. Calib cracks a sly smile as Thomas withdraws the offer of friendship.]

Wallace: “No thanks. I’m not here to make friends, Bane. I just wanted to look you in the eye, just in case you manage to win that title.”

Bane: “Fair enough. You done here?”

Wallace: “Just about. I want that World Title, Bane. So if you win it, you’re looking at your future opponent.”

[Calib Wallace turns and heads towards the exit. Just before he reaches the door way…]

Wallace: “Just remember, Bane, I’ll do anything from now on to win it.”

[And just like that, Calib Wallace leaves the challenger to the World Title.]

Bane: [mumbles to himself] “The least he could have done was close the door on his way out.”

[The scene switches to the parking lot. Rizzo is in his street clothes and he is walking into the arena. He is doing his best to ignore the fans that are lined up behind steel guardrails. However, one kid catches his eye. The kid is a 14 year old boy in a wheelchair who also has an IV strapped into him. The kid’s mother is by his side, and she seems excited that Rizzo is walking over to them.]

Rizzo: What’s happening?

Mom: Oh! Rizzo, thank you very much! My boy chuck is a big fan of yours!

Rizzo: Hmm, really?

Chuck: Absolutely! You’re the funniest guy in the WCWA! Plus, you’re the best wrestler there is today!

Rizzo: You’ve got that right on both accounts. So, what will it be?

Chuck: I was hoping you’d be able to autograph this picture of you!

[The excited kids hands him an action photo of Rizzo applying the Shocker to some poor, hapless victim.]

Rizzo: Sure thing kid!

[Rizzo reaches into his bag and he pulls out his Sharpie. He writes something down, perhaps a personalized message since it’s taking longer than a simple signature. Rizzo grins a bit as he finishes signing the picture. He hands the picture back to Chuck who hugs it.]

Chuck: THANK YOU! YOU’RE THE BEST!

Rizzo: Thanks and enjoy.

[Rizzo turns and he walks towards the arena entrance. On his way, it’s obvious he’s trying to hold in a good, hearty laughter. Chuck turns the picture around to read it. Tears start to flow as he reads the message. It is as follows:

“Chuck,

Fuck off and learn how to walk.

Rizzo.

P.S. Now THAT’S funny!”

[Chuck’s mom sees the message and her face turns read with anger. She looks towards the entrance that Rizzo recently disappeared into.]

Mom: YOU HEARTLESS BASTARD! YOU’LL PAY FOR THAT!!!

[The mom takes the picture and she tears it up. She spins herself and Chuck around, and in a big huff she leaves the scene. The scene then cuts back to the ringside area.]

[Elsewhere, Jimmy Riley is apparently just getting to the locker room...but is clearly surprised by the sight in front of him;

[Billy Coles and Bubba Hayes, HRW's "The Confederacy", and Riley's personal bodyguards/hired guns, have already broken into the celebration stash. Needless to say, both are drunk, and Bubba is particularly ornery.]

Bubba Hayes: 'EY MAN, IT BIG BOSS! HOW YA DOIN' YA OL' JACKASS?

[Bubba crosses the room, a beer in each hand, and pauses for a second to figure out which hand should hold both while he slaps Jimmy on the back; he settles on the right, but drops one anyway. Billy, on the other hand, simply tilts his beer toward Jimmy Riley and speaks a bit softer.]

Billy Coles: Hopin' ya don' mind there, Misteh Rileh, but Bubba 'n I decided...eded t' dip int'eh the lick'er.

Jimmy Riley: Uh...don't worry about it. There's...plenty more where that came from, I...I think. Besides, good for you guys to be in this kind of mood. I'm surprised you're here, but...I don't want you guys showing up later.

[Bubba Hayes gets indignant immediately, and this time speaks without Billy stopping him.]

Bubba Hayes: YA DON' WANT US AT YER PAR-TEE?

Jimmy Riley: Now Bubba, I didn't mean that...I meant during the match! I can handle this fatass on my own, don't you two worry about me. You sit back here, try not to drink...uh, too much beer-

[Bubba has stumbled back to his seat, and proceeds to trip over Billy.]

Jimmy Riley: -And apparently I'm too late for that. But still, sit back here, enjoy the show, and I'll be back later.

[Riley drops his bag in a far corner from the Confederacy, and walks out of the room, off to do whatever it is people do to get ready for big matches.]

[Jim Beam and Jack Daniels are seen walking in the back of the arena. They approach a door that is marked “WCWA Locker-Room”. They look at one another.]

JB: “You ready to do this?”

JD: “Just like old times.”

[Jim throws his head back and laughs.]

JB: “Yee haw!”

[They walk through the door and walk to the front of the room. The camera takes a position in the back. There is loud chatter all through the room as each wrestler prepare for his match or promo still to come tonight. It’s a big night for the WCWA, and everyone wants to do their best. Jack tries to get everyone’s attention.]

JD: “If I could have your attention please?”

[No change.]

JD: “Guys, could you listen up here a second. This will only take a minute.”

[Still no change]

JD: “Guys! Shut up!”

[STILL nothing. Jim waves Jack off and says quietly.]

JB: “Soultaker, if you would please.”

[The giant Soultaker rises and without a word, stares everyone into silence. He looks enormous tonight….and scary as hell.]

JD: “Now, as we were saying, this will only take a minute. You guys have been talking about this for weeks. This is a great opportunity for you guys who are on tonight’s card to make a name for yourself. Those of you cutting promos tonight, this is your chance to show people who you are and what you’re all about.”

JB: “But understand this. There are a lot of people out there who don’t like us. Starting with Jad, and all the way down to you, homo.”

[Ed “The Hobo” White quickly corrects him.]

EW: “That’s ‘HOBO’.”

JB: “I know. I wasn’t talking to you.”

[Everyone turns and looks at Allen Young, who waves and blows kisses. Jack shudders before he continues.]

JD: “There are a lot of people who hate guys like us, Hunter, Harris and Jenson for things we’ve done in the past. They hate Vince even more for what his old BWA used to do the WFWA on a regular basis. They would like nothing better than to screw us tonight, or injure us if possible.”

JB: “The plan is simple. Gang mentality. If they fight one of us, they have to fight us all. There are guys in this room we don’t particularly care for. There are guys in this room who don’t like us.”

JD: “Like Sloan over there, who’s been giving us the finger since we walked in. We understand, Mike, and at Riot, we have no doubt you’re going to try to knock our heads off. All I’m saying is keep family business at home. Let’s go out there tonight and show the WFWA what it means to get CRUNK!!!”

JB: “Good luck with your matches tonight, and we got your backs.”

JD: “And no Ed, we didn’t steal your Mad Dog so shut up about it.”

[WCWA Star Noah Hanson and his manager Karen are backstage as they take in the fact that they are in a stadium that they have never been in before.]

Noah: Belfast, Ireland, what a place!

Karen: This sure is a beautiful place.

Noah: Do you think that people really know that leprechauns are really all over the place?

[Karen shakes her head in amazement at the comment.]

Karen: Don’t start.

[Noah stops and looks under a tarp and seems to be looking under it for something.]

Karen: What are you doing?

Noah: (from under the tarp) Looking for leprechauns!

Karen: There are no such things as leprechauns!

Noah: (in mock shock) Shut up! There is one in WCWA right now!

Karen: What?

Noah: Yeah, he calls himself Rizzo though. (Noah pulls something from under the tarp) Here it is.

[Karen looks a bit confused]

Karen: What?

Noah: I told you I have proof that leprechauns exist and here it is.

Karen: (rolls eyes) Gimme that!

[Noah hands Karen a box. She looks at the front and sighs]

Karen: It’s a box of “Lucky Charms”.

Noah: But look at the picture.

[Noah points to the picture of the leprechaun]

Karen: You pasted Rizzo’s’ head over the leprechauns…

[Noah shakes his head in disagreement]

Noah: How could you accuse me of such a thing?

[Karen peels off the head of Rizzo]

Karen: That is why!

[Noah tries to look shocked]

Noah: How did that happen? I swear I didn’t know anything about it.

Skylar Kelly: Where have I heard that before?

[Noah turns to see his longtime friend and former tag team partner standing there. Noah smiles slightly and then turns to his friend and extends his hand to him. Skylar looks at Noah and then the hand and then extends his own to Noah and they shake hands firmly.]

Noah: It’s been a while old friend.

Karen: That is an understatement.

Skylar: Well, we both have been doing our own things and because of that it takes both of us to different parts of the world. But anyway I got your invite to come here and well here I am. Are you booked or anything?

[Noah shakes his head no.]

Noah: Actually I am here to watch a match that I have a vested interest in.

Skylar: A title match?

Noah: Yep, you game for a wrestling show, all the grub is on me.

Skylar: Free food, sign me up.

Noah: I wonder if we can get some Guinness beer around here.

Karen: I think we might be able to find something.

Skylar: So who we watching?

Noah: Two leprechauns and a flaming homo.

Karen: What did I tell you.

Noah: Sorry, two leprechauns and a heterosexually challenged male.

Karen: That’s better.

Skylar: Let’s go find some beer.

Noah: Hell yeah!

[The three head off to find some beer as the scene fades.]

Harjinder: Ladies and gentlemen! Our next contest is for the WCWA Gold Rush Title! Already in the ring is the first Gold Rush Champion ever and he is Hunter Hill!

[Cheers for the former Champ from the fans.]

Harjinder: Coming to the ring and standing at 6’ 5” and weighing in at 235 pounds….he is also a former WCWA Gold Rush Champion. He is “Gorgeous” Allen Young!

[Hit Me Baby One More Time by Brittany Spears hit’s the arena as Allen comes out in a school girl outfit skipping to the ring. Allen has his up in two pony tails as he sucks on a lollipop as he heads toward the ring. As Allen comes to the rope he slowly bents over as he goes through the middle revealing he is wearing a thong to the crowd in the front row.]

Keiler: That’s nasty!

Doyley: That’s GAY!

Harjinder: Oh my God! What a sight! Now making his way to the ring, he is the current WCWA Gold Rush Champion. He is RIZZO!

Keiler: Where in the hell is the champ!

Doyley: I don’t know, but Allen Young isn’t waiting on him to show up. He just slapped Hunter Hill and executed a knee to the midsection and followed up with a quick knee lift.

DING

DING

DING

Keiler: The ref has called for the bell and this match is officially on its way. I don’t know were the champ is, but if he wants to keep his title, he better show up soon.

Doyley: I know that’s real. Young whips Hill to the corner and follows him in with a spinning heel kick and Hill falls out of the corner and flat on the mat. Young with a slap on the ass of Hill and begins to belly dance while standing over Hill. Hill reaches up and rolls Young into a pinning position.

1...

2...

Keiler: Young kicks out with a shocked look on his face. Hill is up and as Young turns around Hill lands a lariat out of nowhere and levels Young. Hill pulls Young to his feet and executes a snap suplex.

Doyley: Hill is going to take this guy to school. Hill is a vet of this sport and he knows how to get the job done. I’m still wondering where the champ is.

Keiler: Your question has been answered. Rizzo comes walking down the aisle without the title. Didn’t he get rid of it saying he didn’t need a title to prove he was the champ?

Doyley: I think he did. That might not sit to well with Vino, or should I say Vince Webb Sr.

Keiler: Yea, he may wish he had kept that title even if it were made of plastic. Rizzo is making slow walk to the ring, but the action continues inside the ring. Hill has Young in a bear hug, but Young counters out by kissing Hill on the cheek.

Doyley: Hill shoves Young off and Young comes back with a left jab. Right jab. Left jab. Right…..Hill blocks the right and fireman carries Young over and applies an arm bar. Hill is twisting harder and harder as Young screams out in pain.

Keiler: Rizzo has finally made to the ring and he’s just standing on the apron, watching the action. Young pulls his way to the ropes and grabs on. The ref calls for Hill to break the hold. Hill breaks and hops up quickly and races toward the ropes and comes off with a flying forearm, but Young ducks it.

Doyley: Hill hits the mat and Young quickly climbs the turnbuckles and executes a corkscrew leg drop across the back on Hill. Young goes for a cover.

1...

2...

Keiler: Rizzo hops in the ring and nails Young with an elbow across the back to break the count. Rizzo pulls Young to his feet and nails a double under hook backbreaker on Young.

Doyley: Hill is getting up and Rizzo stomps his right hand and then his left hand. Rizzo with a soccer like kick to the sternum of Hill that knocks the air right out of Hill’s lungs. Young is still feeling the effects of that backbreaker, but he has enough to get to his feet and catch Rizzo with a drop kick right in the mouth as he turns around.

Keiler: Young with that tremendous drop kick, but he didn’t help his back any. Hill is slowly getting to his feet. Young points to Rizzo and suggest that he and Hill work together. Hill and Young charge Rizzo as he’s getting to his feet and they execute a double clothesline that sends Rizzo over the top.

Doyley: Young grabs Hill’s ass and Hill delivers a kick to Young and levels him with a DDT. Hill gets up and backs up to the ropes. He comes off the ropes and drops a knee across the back of Young’s head. Rizzo is pulling himself back up on the apron, but Hill sees him and charges toward Rizzo. Rizzo is hopping back on the apron as Hill baseball slides and knocks Rizzo back off and to the floor. Young is up to his knees and trying to shake off the cobwebs. Hill climbs up to the middle turnbuckle and waits for Young to get up. Young turns around and Hill leaps off with a Thesz press and begins laying the lefts and rights to Young.

Keiler: Young is trying to cover up, but the massive blows from Hill are almost too much to cover up from. Rizzo has made it back up to the apron and he’s just leaning there smiling at the damage being inflicted by Hill on Young.

Doyley: The champ is smart. He didn’t come out until later and now he’s just watching these two go at each other. Hill sees Rizzo and hops up and charges over. Rizzo waits and grabs Hill by the head and drops down and drapes Hill over the top rope. Hill’s neck comes across the rope and the rope slingshots him back into the ring.

Keiler: Young has gotten to the ropes and sees Hill on the mat. Young pulls Hill to his feet and whips him to the corner. Young goes to the opposite side and charges in and nails a broncobuster on Hill. Rizzo has come into the ring and catches Young with a slingshot suplex. Rizzo begins to stomp away at Hill in the corner until the ref pulls him off. Rizzo turns and walks right into a dragon suplex from Young.

Doyley: Young is furious and he’s on top of Rizzo and he’s laying on the slaps.

Keiler: Slaps?

Doyley: Yea, look he’s slapping Rizzo! This is………Hell I don’t know what to say.

Keiler: I do………GAY!

Doyley: Hill is getting back to his feet and he comes over behind Young and nails him with a kick to the back. Young leans his head back in pain from the kick and Hill executes an inverted neck breaker on Young. Hill pulls Rizzo to his feet and whips Rizzo to the ropes. As Rizzo comes off the ropes, Hill drops down and grabs Rizzo around the waist and hoists him up and executes a hot shot off the ropes.

Keiler: Hill covers Rizzo!

1...

2...

Doyley: No! Young makes the save, by kicking Hill in the kidney area. Young pulls Hill to his feet and nails him with a European uppercut. Young comes back with another European uppercut, but Hill retaliates with a hook to the mid section.

Keiler: Hill with a full arm drag and twist and follows up with an elbow across the arm that he attacked earlier and Young is screaming for his mama.

Doyley: Hill could have injured a tendon in that arm or broken it. Whatever he did, Young is not a happy camper. Rizzo has gotten to a knee as he sees Hill going for a cover.

1...

2...

Keiler: No! The count is broken by Rizzo, as he pulls Hill off Young. Rizzo goes for a short arm clothesline, but Hill ducks and counters with a T-bone suplex. Young is nursing his arm in the corner when Hill charges over and catches a boot to the face from Young. Hill tries to shake it off and comes in hard again and Young gets the boot up again. Hill staggers back and Young flies out of the corner with a cross body block.

Doyley: He can’t capitalize, because he landed on that arm that Hill has seemingly injured. Rizzo is up and slumps over in the corner waiting for someone to attack.

Keiler: Looks like he’s just gonna let Hill and Young battle it out to me. Hill rolls over and tosses his arm over Young.

1...

Doyley: The count is broken as Young plays dirty by kissing Hill and causing Hill to roll off him. Hill gets to a knee and pulls Young up with him. Chop block from Young!

Keiler: Open hand chest pop from Hill! Another Chop block from Young! Right punch from Hill and it rocks Young!

Doyley: Hill getting to a standing position and pulls Young to his feet. Hill swings Young with an Irish whip to the ropes. Hill goes for a backdrop, but Young leap frogs over. Rizzo comes out of the corner with a lung breaker on Hill.

Keiler: Young comes off the ropes and Rizzo is there waiting with a monkey flip on Young. Young comes down hard on his back and that injured arm. Hill is rolling in pain from that lung breaker move of Rizzo.

Doyley: The champ seems to have a plan in effect. He’s working the backs of both men. This could be the beginning of the end. Rizzo pulls Hill to his feet and executes a belly to belly suplex into the turnbuckles. He’s focused on that back area and he’s not letting up.

Keiler: Rizzo lays a Young under the turnbuckles so his back is up against the steel post. Rizzo hooks Young’s legs with one arm, the chin with the other, and he pulls back. He puts uses his feet to push outward to apply more pressure on the back. This guy is relentless.

Doyley: Hill’s trying to get up, but his back is giving him hell. The ref makes Rizzo break the hold on Young, but the damage has already been done. Rizzo goes to hop up on the apron and Hill damn near in a full stagger, happens to get a shoulder block on Rizzo and knocks him off the apron.

Keiler: Even that hurt Hill as the jar from his body contacting Rizzo’s sent a sharp pain down his spinal column. These men have taken it to each other tonight for this Gold Rush match.

Doyley: Yes they have and they are still putting out their best. Hill is down on one knee in the corner. Young is trying to pull himself up in the turnbuckles. Rizzo’s head just peaked over the apron as he’s trying to get back into the ring.

Keiler: The damn ref didn’t issue a ten count, because he was to busy playing nursemaid to Hill and Young.

Doyley: He had to check on their condition, to see if they could continue on. Hill charges Young and slams him into the turnbuckles, adding further injury to Young’s back. Hill staggers back and Rizzo leaps on the top rope and goes for a flying clothesline, but Hill falls or ducks under. Rizzo crashes and burns on the mat.

Keiler: Hill goes for a cover on Rizzo.

1...

2...

Doyley: DAMN! How in the hell did he do it? Young gave all he had to push off and nail Hill with an elbow in the small of the back. Young made the save, but at what expense? He can’t make the cover either.

Keiler: The ref is issuing a standing ten count.

1...

2...

3…

Doyley: Rizzo is moving a bit.

4…

5…

6…

Keiler: Young is trying to pull himself up on the ropes.

7…

8…

9…

Doyley: Rizzo is up and he grabs Young and whips him to the ropes. Rizzo leans over for a backdrop, but Young stops and kicks him in the chest. Rizzo stands in pain and Young clotheslines Rizzo.

Keiler: Hill is up and he bounces off the ropes and nails Rizzo with a leg drop. That was the wrong move Hill! The impact jarred Hill’s back and he can’t capitalize on the move. Young gets up and pulls Rizzo up. Young gets up with a go behind and a standing big wiggle on Rizzo and goes for a belly to back suplex.

Doyley: Rizzo with a leg between Young’s legs and blocks the move. Rizzo reaches down and pulls Young’s legs quickly, causing Young to hit the mat hard.

Keiler: Rizzo drops a knee across the injured arm of Young. He pulls Young to his feet and whips him to the ropes, but follows him in and dropkicks Young over the top rope and to the floor.

Doyley: Young goes over to Hill and pulls Hill to his feet. The ref is checking on Young. Rizzo delivers a low blow to Hill and then executes an inverted atomic drop.

Keiler: Rizzo goes for his signature move. The humbler…………Rizzo has it applied and Hill’s back is already in severe pain.

Doyley: The ref is asking Hill is he wants to tap, but Hill refuses. Young is trying to get back in the ring, but his arm and back are in bad shape.

Keiler: Hill can’t take anymore and Hill taps. Hunter Hill taps out!

DING

DING

DING

Harjinder: The winner and still WCWA Gold Rush Champion…………RIZZO!

Keiler: What a match!

Doyley: This isn’t over between these three men. Rizzo retained tonight, but all of them gave it their all.

[The chattering of the crowd quiets considerably as a camera fades in just outside of a door somewhere in the backstage area. Raj Patel stands calmly next to it, checking his microphone. After a moment, he looks up and smiles into the camera.]

Raj: Good evening, ladies and gentlemen! If you’re just joining us now, the action is already well underway here at WWA International Wars. There’s still plenty of mayhem ahead including the much-anticipated Summit Finals match and the Rite of Passage four-man Elimination match. Also to come are championship defenses from several of the WWA’s fine regions as well as all three of our inter-regional championships being put on the line! Speaking of which, I’m about to speak to the up-and-coming young high-flyer who rocked the wrestling world when he recently captured the WWA Double Crown Championship on behalf of Old Line Wrestling…

[A sizeable pop goes up from the fans, drowning out his next couple of words]

Raj: …calls himself Python and he’s done a hell of a job opening eyes as of late. At the ripe age of 19 years old, this kid has already seen an unreal amount of success and is only getting hotter as his momentum builds. He is scheduled for his first title defense tonight against the ruthless Jake Devins. We’re going to see if we can get a few words with Python and see just what this guy is all about.

[Raj knocks on the door. A few moments of silence pass before he knocks again. The crowd begins to murmur impatiently as he frowns and puts a hand to his earpiece.]

Raj: Hm… my sources tell me he hasn’t left his room. I hope everything is ok. He’s probably just preparing for his match tonight.

[He quickly jiggles the doorknob and appears surprised as the door pushes right open. After a moment of hesitation, he awkwardly walks into the dimly lit dressing room, peering cautiously to both sides. The camera picks up the faint sound of music coming from somewhere in the room.]

Raj: Err… Python?

Python: Yea? Come in.

[At the sound of Python’s voice, Raj walks all the way into the room and turns, looking for the young Double Crown Champion. Suddenly, the look of puzzlement vanishes from his face and is replaced with a smirk.]

Raj: Well… this is different.

[The crowd bursts into laughter and applause as the camera enters the room and pans to the side to reveal Python standing dramatically on top of the arm rest of a couch, the Double Crown belt around his waist and his fingers flying frantically over a Guitar Hero controller. Not about to break his concentration, Python glances over at Raj and then quickly into the camera before turning his attention back to the game, feigning sudden panic.]

Python: Oh good. Whole world is now watching. Pressure’s on. Better hit star power.

[He boldly flips the guitar up and behind his head, sticking his tongue out and shredding to the synth-driven sound of Freezepop. Raj waits patiently for him to finish the song, clearly amused. After another 25 seconds or so, the words “you rock!” flash across the screen. Python hops down from the couch, grinning proudly at his 93% score.]

Raj: Umm. Well done.

Python: Thank you. And not to brag or anything, but…

[He slips the guitar strap over his head and tosses the controller onto the couch, turning to look into the camera with mock superiority.]

Python: That was on “expert”.

Raj: I see. Most impressive.

Python: So what can I do for you?

Raj: Well, in addition to asking you a few general questions I was hoping to see how you were preparing for a match as big as your defense against Jake Devins later tonight. I certainly wasn’t expecting Guitar Hero.

Python: And why not?

Raj: Well…

[He looks incredulously into the camera and then back at Python before stating the obvious.]

Raj: It is a video game.

Python: Hey, don’t knock it man. You’d be surprised. A lot of guys do the whole “RAHH LET’S GET PUMPED!” thing before every match. Pushups, jumping jacks, running laps, ice baths… whatever. It works for them, so fine. After a lot of trial and error, I’ve found that the easiest way for me to get “in the zone” is to just relax before my matches. My biggest problem is that I usually have too much on my mind, you know? Listening to music or reading a book will work wonders for that. However, it’s rare that I get such a sweet room with a Playstation-compatible television. Figured I should probably take advantage of it.

Raj: Well um.. I suppose that makes sense. You can certainly “shred” those “jams” pretty good, huh? Haha.. rock on!

[Python forces a chuckle and nods politely. A painful silence rings through the arena as the crowd sadly shakes its collective head.]

Raj: Ok, moving on. I have a couple of topics I’d like to address.

Python: Go for it.

Raj: As far as many WWA fans are concerned, you completely came out of nowhere and lit up the Double Crown division. Old Line Wrestling is a fairly recent addition to the World Wrestling Alliance. Not many fans from regions outside of your own were familiar with you or your past accomplishments. Although your title win was an inter-regional match, it still took place on your home turf, so to speak. How does it feel to be here in Ireland representing a relatively unknown federation against Jake Devins, a man who has already captured the Double Crown championship several times and has made it a point to try to get in your head as of late?

Python: Well my friend, I am ecstatic. There’s no other way I can possibly put it. Aside from the fact that this is my first time in Ireland and I am enjoying it profusely, Old Line Wrestling is my home and I couldn’t possibly be any prouder. We’re representing pretty strong here tonight and I’m confident that by the end of the night we’ll be walking out of here with two WWA championships. It’s an honor to hold this the Double Crown title in the name of the OLW and I don’t plan on letting it go anytime soon. As I’ve said before, Jake Devins talks a pretty big game. He’s cocky, he’s successful, and he’s intense. He’s won the DC Title before… but here’s the thing. He hasn’t won it from me. I plan to promptly and effectively shut him up tonight in beautiful Belfast.

[Cheap pop]

Python: Because as we ALL know by now, his last Double Crown loss was a bit controversial. He goofed up and got himself disqualified or something, I don’t know. He’s been telling the story to every ear he can find, but it’s difficult to pay attention to what he says after a while, you know? No matter. I’ll pin him fair and square tonight and there will be nothing for him to bitch about anymore except how his bones ain’t healing quick enough.

Crowd: OHHHHH!!!!

[This prompts a smirk from the young high-flyer]

Python: Yea, that’s right. I said it.

Raj: Bold words, young man. Very bold. In relation, you happen to have a very unique and daring style in the ring. Frankly, I’ve been following your matches and just when I think I’ve seen it all, you show me something completely new. Do you believe that your creative approach to the art of high-risk offense is what distinguishes you from the rest of the lightweights in the wrestling business? Is that what puts you on a different page?

Python: Err… I dunno.

[Python awkwardly looks down at his toes]

Python: I don’t really do it on purpose. I just do whatever comes naturally to me in the ring. If I see a chance to change up a classic move to catch my opponent off guard or an opening to do something unexpected, I’ll take it.

Raj: Yes, and we got a good taste of that in your recent victory over Brian Fisher and TC Jagger, who is rumored to be in attendance here tonight.

Python: Really? TC Jagger is here?

Raj: According to reports.

Python: In Ireland!?

Raj: Indeed.

Python: Wow. I really have to give him credit… he’s serious about coming for this strap.

[He pats the DC belt.]

Python: As far as Jagger goes, he’s a hell of a fighter. He’s got a lot going for him and his head is totally in the right place. I look forward to squaring off with him again someday.

Raj: Excellent. Well, I’m receiving word that the time has come for the show to continue. Thank you again for…

Python: Wait! One more thing.

[He looks into the camera.]

Python: I’d like to take this opportunity to wish Cole Christenson the best of luck in his OLW Heavyweight title defense later tonight against that recently-established piece of shit Danny Vicious. He may think he’s “Untouchable” when he’s with his buddies, but he’s nothing without them. Show him the lights, C-man. If his thugs show up…

[He takes a moment to pause and crack his knuckles]

Python: Well, let’s just say I’ll be more than happy to even the odds again.

[Fade out.]

“You‘re just making mistakes left and right, now aren’t ya kid?”

[A voice comes from the blank screen, a slight laugh following.]

“First you ignore my warnings that you should not take my belt. But you did it any ways. Then, right when I think it can’t get any worse for you, you open your fat mouth and challenge me to a hardcore match.”

[The screen fades up to one, Jake Devins. He sits calmly on top of a crate, his feet dangling off the ground. He’s shirtless, clad in only a pair of jean shorts. He smirks slightly the camera as it fades up, narrowing his eyes as he continues to speak.]

“Did you honestly think I wouldn’t accept, Python? Did you honestly think I would pass up the chance to take things a step further and destroy you even more than I had been imagining? No...even as naïve as you are, you couldn’t possibly have thought that Jake Devins would back down from a hardcore stipulation.”

[A chuckle.]

“Honestly kid, I don’t know what you’re problem is. To think you can stand toe to toe with Devins in a hardcore match is just flat out insane. I mean, look at the facts kid. Learn from the past. Many men and women have tried to do what you’re going to try and pull off tonight. What happened to them?”

[A pause.]

“Times up. They got fucking destroyed, Python. Put back in their place where they belong, in a hospital bed. Tonight will be no different, kid. I will take back what is rightfully mine. I will flat out destroy you and make you realize that you DON’T fuck with Jake Devins.”

[A slight smirk.]

“Whether you want to believe it or not.. Whether you want to look at the evidence or ignore it like you’ve constantly ignored me.. The fact remains. The Double Crown championship is MINE. Hell, not only am I the champion, I’m the motherfucking division and the sooner you realize this, the better your chance of survival.”

[The scene fades out.]

“You’ve brought this pain unto yourself, Python.”

[We switch backstage where we see Dean Hobkirk walking backwards and forwards across the hallways.]

Hobkirk: Man, I'm bored. Someone better hurry and cheer me up.

[Dean looks around absentmindedly. He keeps glancing at a nearby monitor, seemingly waiting for a match to begin so he at least has something to watch.]

Hobkirk: I wonder who's down the corridor.

[With that said, Dean begins walking down the corridor towards a set of dressing rooms. There's some technical guys running around, but they're all too busy to speak with the bored superstar. Hobkirk keeps walking, looking from door to door. Finally, Dean spots someone. He half jumps, smiling now. He immediately rushes to the black and baby blue clad wrestler with his back to Hobkirk.]

Hobkirk: Danny!

[No response.]

Hobkirk: Yo, Danny man!

[No response again. Dean, appearing frustrated, tries once more.]

Hobkirk: Hey Danny...

[The full frame of the 6'9 baby blue and black clad superstar swings around sharply. Hobkirk stops about an inch from the chest of the number one contender to the OLW Heavyweight title. Danny Vicious eyes Dean suspiciously. Even with his silver Oakley shades covering his eyes, his expression is visible. He's frustrated at being bothered by someone. Dean chooses not to care. After all, he's a pro wrestler too.]

Hobkirk: Look man, I just wanted to say good luck to you ahead of tonight’s match...

[Vicious bursts into laughter. Not uncontrollable or anything, but a deep, hearty laughter. Dean crunches his face up at the response. Vicious notices and stops laughing.]

Vicious: Listen, pal. I don't know who the hell you are, and quite frankly, I don't give a damn. Now, it seems like you took the time to learn enough about me that you feel confident approaching me. Good. It shows you know how to respect your superiors.

[Hobkirk opens his mouth to speak, but Danny raises his hand to silence him.]

Vicious: Hush, boy. It seems you haven't learned how to ADDRESS your superiors. Don't speak unless you're spoken to.

[Dean, almost visibly fuming, takes a step back from Danny and stares him right in his eyes. Danny just smirks.]

Hobkirk: Look, man. I was just going to wish you good luck, but if you're going to be a PRICK about it...

[Danny rips his shades from his face. Now it's his turn to fume.]

Vicious: What the hell did you just call me, you little gnome? Like I said, I don't know who the hell you are...

Hobkirk: I'm Dean Hobkirk. And I'll tell you something else, Mr. Number One Contender. I am NOT afraid of Danny freakin' Vicious.

[Danny slaps his forehead. Dean watches, confused. Danny turns back to Dean with a slight smile. He also puts his shades back on.]

Vicious: I get it. Christenson hired you to try and psyche me out. Look buddy, my time is very valuable. So take the money Cole gave you, and get the hell out of my face.

[Hobkirk steps towards Vicious. He glares at Danny with a defiant stare.]

Hobkirk: Move me.

[Danny lowers his chin to his chest and sighs.]

Vicious: Well... ain't gotta tell me twice.

[As soon as the last word left his lips, Danny steps forward and completely walks right through Hobkirk. Dean stumbles back against the wall from the force, but quickly regains his footing and watches Danny Vicious saunter off down the hallway. Dean balls his hands into fists and seethes at the figure as we fade to black.]

Keiler: “In just a few minutes, we will be seeing one of the highlights of the night, the Wrestling Republic Emerald Isle Heavyweight Title fight!”

There is a loud pop from the audience

Keiler: “Let’s go backstage to ‘Irish Fire’ who is in his locker room getting ready for the match.”

David Paige is now in uniform, doing some basic cardio exercises to get his heart rate up for the match. He stops upon noticing the camera’s focus on him, deciding that he has probably prepared enough. Despite his confidence, he is clearly a bit nervous. He knows how important this match is.

Paige: “Wrestling Republic, to a great extent, will depend on who is going to win the match that will take place only minutes from now. It is the conflict of a patriot versus a rebel, for control both of the narrative of the individual, and of the narrative future of the federation for which they fight. When I returned to the ring six months ago, I did so without any idea that half a year later I would be the champion both of the gold and the spirit of the Wrestling Republic. It was for more selfish reasons. A little money, a chance to improve my new philosophic curiosity. It was my plan to remain around the mid-card, to linger in the same realm that first frustrated me into retirement. And now, here I am.

He takes the title and fastens it around his waist.

“I know that I have little choice but to win this match, for both myself and the federation. If I lose tonight, I will have forever proven myself to be unworthy of being champion, both in the past and in the future. To be defeated here would to make me a paper champion, a weakling propped up by the federation to act as an icon of rebirth. It would be the utter removal of the idea of ‘competition’ from the spectacle, taking it solely into the realm of performativity. This would, in turn, cause the WR to lose its respect as an athletic federation of Sports Entertainment, and merely a format of entertainment. Egerton wants to destroy the WR, and if he wins, I cannot but feel as if he will succeed.

“This is the pinnacle of spectacle, as it is a meta-spectacle, a second and analytic spectacle that combines and overrides the individual spectacles of every federation that is competing tonight. The audience is a new organic form, the WWA in a very real physical body. The metaspectacle of International Wars will judge each federation by its performance tonight, and each federation’s judgment will be delivered based on the performance of its competitors. Egerton and I were selected even before the title was put on the line, as we were seen as the icons of the federation. It was only when winning the title that this new perspective overtook the previous narrative.

“So, it is my double responsibility to represent the Wrestling Republic, both as its champion, and as the body of technical skill that can be expected by every competitor within our federation. Loyal fans of the Wrestling Republic, tonight is our night, and I will not let any of you down. I will defeat Egerton, and I will display the proud legacy of this title and all that it stands for. For you new fans, new viewers, go get your snacks right now, take that bathroom break, but be back in five minutes. Because you are about to witness the machinations of the spectacle in its grandest form. This will not be something you will want to miss.”

# BOOM

# BOOM

[A purple haze covers the entrance area as "We Run This" by Missy Elliot blast over the sound system. Purple and green lights circle the curtains as the music get's louder and louder.]

# We run this

# Boom

[Tuba's pumping it up during the chorus.]

[The band section is blasting as the curtains shuffle for a moment.]

V/O: I bring you greetings from the Dirty South. Hotlanta, Mobile, Vicksburg, New Orleans, Shreveport, Dallas, Houston. We're taking OVER!

[As the music continues to blare, the lights begin to move faster and faster until they come to a stand still in the middle of the entrance ramp. The curtains fly open and out step Malik Johnson, Vince Webb Jr. and Mustafa Johnson. The collective force of Southern Uprising make their way out to the ramp with grins on their faces that would stop a Mac Truck. Malik has a mic in hand and motions for the fans to quiet down.]

[Fans are booing even louder.]

Malik: I wouldn't expect any type of respect in Ireland. I'm not green enough for you lucky charm bitches.

[Fans have turned up the booing.]

Malik: Whatever.....whatever! You wouldn't know greatness if it walked up to you and slapped the hell out of you. I didn't come out here tonight to talk to you lima beans anyway.

[Malik smirks as he prepares to speak over the chorus of fans.]

Malik: If you people have elevated yourselves to cable or Direct TV, I'm sure you have seen us taking the OCW by storm. The Sex Symbols have packed up and high tailed it to the WCWA. TTO found out that Southern Hospitality is all you need to know.

[Fans begin tossing items at the trio.]

Malik: Hey you, keep your moms big ass panties under your pillow! Then if that wasn't enough, The Southern Kingz found out that you don't mess with real mofo's from the South.

Ask Jeremy how his neck is doing?

[Malik laughs as he passes the mic to Vince.]

Vince Jr.: So this is Ireland! It's even smaller than I though it was. No wonder you people over here have dreamed up the Loch Ness monster. Between Ireland and England, there's not a damn thing that would make me want to visit either place, with the exception of old nessy.

[A cup of water is tossed on Jr.]

Jr.: Thanks I needed that, because the showers in the hotel had water running out of them that looked like it came out of a sewer.

We didn't come out here to run you people down. You're already doing enough of that on your own.

We came out here to put the WWA tag division on notice. Right now it's a dead zone, because it has two dead beat jack holes wearing the WWA World Tag titles. Bobby Blood and Terry Norris, the two chain-yankers that have some how managed to hold on to the titles.

[Fans boo]

Jr.: Chris and Jeremy couldn't get the job done. No one you have faced has been able to unseat you. Now that has changed. You bastards have just been put on notice that anytime and anywhere, you are in for a surprise. It might be tonight. It might be tomorrow. It might be next week.

All you need to know is it's coming. Mustafa has something he wants to say.

[Jr. hands the mic to Mustafa as the fans continue to boo.]

Mustafa: Southern Uprising wants to make an announcement as well. We're not just some Johnny come lately social club. We're a group of determined athletes that intend to make our mark on the WWA.

You look and you see three, but our numbers have already increased. We had to drop two non-conformers and pick up someone that can get the job done. Vince and Malik are looking at tag gold. I have a man here tonight that wants to take on any and all comers. WWA World and Double Crown title holders better beware.

I now introduce the newest member of Southern Uprising, hailing from ACW. I present "Badass" Brian.

[Brian makes his way out to the ramp as the fans continue to boo.]

Badass Brian: I'm proud to be a part of Southern Uprising. This team, starting tonight, will begin a new definition of beating out opponents... we are going to do it... Southern Style! Anyone who wishes to object needs to come forward now, so that you can experience... first hand, how our competition will be dealt with...

[They all gather round the mic.]

Together: If you thought we were something to behold in OCW. Wait until you see us unleashed on the WWA.

[The drop the mic and head to the back as the fans are booing hard as hell.]

Keiler: Well we’ve had some stellar matches so far tonight, as the whole WWA comes to Ireland for what we hope wont be one solitary visit and there is much more to come I assure. But for many of the locals, who watch Wrestling Republic on a weekly basis, this next match is the one that matters the most.

Doyley: You can say that again, it’s time for the Emerald Isle Heavyweight Title to return to the waist of someone worthy, the original Champion. Chris Egerton.

Keiler: So you don’t feel that David Paige is a worthy champion, huh, Kel?

Doyley: Well he’s not quite so grotesque to look at as John Henry, but come on, he doesn’t deserve that title; he barely earned picking up the scraps after Henry had worn himself out against Egerton & Devins.

Keiler: Sure he got a lucky break with the match stipulations, as did Egerton, but Paige seized the opportunity with both hands, Egerton let it slip through his fingers.

Harjinder: Ladies and Gentlemen the next match is scheduled for one fall and is for Wrestling Republic’s Emerald Isle Title!

*pop*

Harjinder: Introducing first the challenger from Pontiac, Michigan weighing in at 240 lbs… CCHHHHRRIIISSSSSS EEEGGGGEEERRRTTTTTTTOOOOOOONNNNNN!!!!

[The opening guitar drones of "You Fail Me" by Converge play ominously over the PA. The venue is completely dark. The drums and screaming kick in, dropping the hammer and sending this song into a loud, crawling, evil dirge. As soon as that happens, Chris steps out from behind the curtain, dressed in torn and tattered black pants, black boots, and a sleeveless, black, torn and tattered black hooded ring jacket. His gaze never wavers from the ring he walks down the aisle, oblivious to the jeering fans and the noise. He enters the ring, takes off the jacket to reveal his enormous back tattoo and gives the aisle from where his opponent will shortly appear the 1000 yard stare.]

Keiler: Egerton, a renowned Cruiserweight a few years ago now in his late twenties has battled back from the oblivion of personal demons to be crowned the inaugural Emerald Isle Champion, a title he defended stoutly for several months against all comers, but recently he seems to have been jaded.

Doyley: Says you, Egerton’s gonna make you eat your words later.

Keiler: I’m just hoping for his own sake that Chris’ isn’t slipping back into that which he gamely battled to escape from.

Doyley: Well we’ll see tonight, you just know that if he can show the intensity we saw from him in those battles with Henry & Devins during the first few months of our operation, Paige won’t have an answer for him.

Harjinder: And his opponent, weighing in at 225 lbs hailing from Dublin, Ireland.

*pop*

Harjinder: The Wrestling Republic Emerald Isle Champion… “IRISH FIRE” DAAAYYYYYYVVVVVIIIIDDDDDD PPPAAAIIIIIIIIGGGGGEEEEEEEE!!!!!!

[The crowd Lights Dim and begin to flash in brilliant green. “Thrown Away” by VAST plays. As the drums begin, “Irish Fire” David Paige emerges from the entrance, and stands beholding the crowd before him. He has the Emerald Isle Title wrapped around his waist, gleaming off the green spotlight directly above him. Paige unstraps the belt, and slowly raises it above his head. As the electric guitar hits its first note, Green Flames explode from both sides of Paige. Tossing the belt over his shoulder, he heads slowly, with determination, to the ring. When he enters, he eyes Egerton cautiously, bouncing on his feet and getting ready to go the second the bell rings.]

Keiler: The local man, Paige has been the darling of the Wrestling Republic fans, they’ve been one of the factors in the rise in stature of this youngster from Dublin.

Doyley: It’s good for my countrymen to have someone to get behind, just a shame it’s this tongue twister.

Keiler: Well Paige really came to the fore as one half of the Saint/Sinner Tag Champions propelling himself into the main event, something all the guys on the WR roster should look to do.

[The referee, painstakingly diligent, checks both men for weapons, before sending each man to the corner and calling for the bell.]

*Ding, Ding*

Keiler: We’re underway here; these two men have faced several times before, both in singles & tag action. They also teamed as a WR trio defeated a threesome from OLW, but tonight on the biggest Wrestling stage Ireland has ever known they do battle once more for that Emerald encrusted metal & leather pot of proverbial gold at the Rainbows end.

[Egerton & Paige circle before tying up, Egerton quickly on the front foot pushes Paige backwards, but Paige is quick to duck below and spin on his heels grabbing Egerton around the waist. Paige looks for a German with his hands wrapped around Egerton’s waist but Egerton is wise to the move and elbows Paige on the shoulder. Paige doesn’t release his grasp after taking the strike, Egerton grabs at the hands around his waist and prizes the fingers of Paige apart forcing the champion to release and back off.]

Doyley: Egerton knows what Paige is all about, this could be a cat and mouse start.

Keiler: Well Egerton the stockier, shorter man has a 15 lbs advantage over Paige and is a little more robust in his technique, having been around the WWA for several years he’s also got a couple of years experience over the Emerald Isle Champion.

[The pair tie-up again and it’s Egerton with the shove, forcing Paige back against a turnbuckle, Egerton plants a couple of meat forearms on the jaw of Paige before delivering a chop to he chest, Egerton takes a step back and looks for a kick to the midriff, Paige though grabs the foot aimed at his gut and takes a few steps out of the corner, before spinning Egerton around like a top and grabbing the challenger before hitting a Belly-to-Belly Suplex.]

Doyley: Sounds to me like you’re thinking Egerton has the match in the bag.

Keiler: I said no such thing, Paige has a reach advantage being such a tall competitor and will no doubt have an edge in terms of speed and endurance as the lighter, younger man. His style’s different, a little more crafted in his ring skills than the brawling style of Egerton. It’s in the balance; I’m sitting firmly on the fence

[Both men roll back to their feet. Paige ready for the tie up straight away, Egerton though circles around Paige, taking his time. Eventually the collar & elbow tie up comes, Egerton again using his lower centre of gravity and weight advantage forces Paige back to the ropes, Irish Whip by the challenger sends Paige across the ring. Paige bounces off the ropes and comes back, Egerton looks for a Lariat but Paige ducks it, Paige hits the ropes again, Egerton turns to face the rebounding Champion but gets taken down with a diving forearm to the face.]

Doyley: Typical of you landlubber, you know where I’m firmly hanging my hat in this match.

[Paige back up the quicker pulls Egerton back to his feet and take shim over with a Snap Suplex. Paige rolls up stomps Egerton a couple of times before pulling the former Emerald Isle Champion back to his feet. Paige with an Irish Whip and Egerton heads to the ropes rebounds straight into a Flapjack.]

Keiler: You’re looking for your fellow country man to retain, surely.

[Paige stomps Egerton several times before hauling the challenger back to his feet again, Paige whips Egerton to a turnbuckle and follows in with several forearms to the face, before pulling Egerton out the corner and hitting a Samoan Drop.]

Doyley: Noo… Way… Egerton’s taking this.

Keiler: Not if Paige carries on the way he’s going.

[Paige quickly makes the cover.]

[One.]

[Two.]

Doyley: Egerton gets a shoulder up with time to spare.

[Paige pulls Egerton back to his feet and drives a knee into the midsection before placing the challenger in an Underhook position, from which Paige hits a Double Underhook Suplex.]

Keiler: But another very aggressive move from David Paige right there. He seems to be upping his intensity tonight.

[Paige stomps Egerton several times, before pulling Egerton back to his feet, Paige hits a Gutwrench Suplex and rolls back up before attempting to apply a Texas Cloverleaf.]

Doyley: Paige now looking for a submission but on a night like tonight Egerton will be supremely aware of the punishing holds that Paige has in his arsenal and will not be a man to tap out. Mark my words.

[Egerton kicks violently, looking for an escape, Paige battles hard to keep Egerton down as he tries to apply the hold but eventually one of the flailing boots of Egerton catches Paige on the chin and the champion is staggered backwards, stunned.]

Keiler: Yeah, Egerton did not want to be trapped in that submission attempt for love nor money.

[Egerton rolls quickly to his feet and catches Paige with spinning back fist.]

Doyley: Uraken on the money!

Keiler: Egerton going after the chin of Paige, perhaps he senses a weakness there, like a boxer gets known for a weak chin, could Egerton have dug deep into the history of David Paige a routed out that weakness?

[Paige staggers backwards into the ropes, Egerton charges forward with a clothesline that sends Paige toppling over the top rope to the outside.]

*Jeers*

Doyley: I dunno? But on the outside, no rules apply dangerous territory for the Champion.

[Egerton quickly rolls out the ring to the outside and stomps Paige, Paige is pulled back to his feet after the stomp-fest and gets his head slammed against the apron of the ring, and Egerton grabs one of the ringside mats ripping it up, before nailing Paige with a chop to the chest.]

Keiler: Egerton looking to end this early, he has bad intentions for the Champion it seems.

[Egerton grabs Paige and delivers a Backdrop Suplex onto the cold concrete.]

*Jeers*

Doyley: Ban intentions, for sure he wants that title back around his waist that means beating David Paige!

Keiler: I can tell you form experience that a move like that hurts in the ring where there is some give, on the concrete there isn’t any give and that means the impact & pain are increased; a couple, maybe three fold.

[Egerton smirks as Paige writhes in pain, before grabbing a handful of hair and rolling Paige back into the ring, cockily Egerton walks up the ring steps and climbs scales the ropes.]

Doyley: We could be looking at a new Champion right now, if this pays off.

[Egerton from the top leaps, landing with a Stomp on the chest of Paige.]

_BUMP_

*Ohhhhh…*

Keiler: This could be all.

[Egerton makes the cover.]

[One.]

[Two.]

Keiler: David Paige rolls a shoulder up.

[Egerton casts a rueful glance at the referee and then his opponent before getting back to his feet, pulling Paige with him.]

Doyley: Paige just about got a shoulder up, but Chris’ is still on the front foot here.

[Irish Whip sends Paige to the ropes, Paige rebounds into a Running Jumping Knee Lift to the chest which downs Paige, and Egerton pulls Paige back to his feet and drives the champion backwards with several forearms and chops. With Paige trapped against the turnbuckle Egerton fires off several stiff kicks to the body & legs of Paige, then a European uppercut to the jaw before whipping Paige across the ring. Paige connects chest first with the turnbuckle, hard.]

_CLUNK_

[Paige staggers backwards out the corner, Egerton seizes his foe and drops the Champion with a Belly-to-back Suplex.]

Keiler: You know I said earlier that Paige seems more aggressive and intense than I’ve ever seen him before.

Doyley: Yeah.

[Several stomps by Egerton keep Paige on the canvas, before Egerton pulls Paige back to his feet, whips the Champion to the ropes as Paige rebounds the challenger delivers a Tilt-a-Whirl Backbreaker.]

Keiler: Ditto that for Egerton, a savvy in ring performer he’s always been, but I’m not sure I’ve ever seen him this aggressive before.

Doyley: Just shows what that title means to him.

[Egerton delivers several stomps before again pulling the champion back to his feet, Egerton lifts Paige before Powerbombing the Champion.]

Keiler: Cover.

[Egerton hooks the legs.]

[One.]

[Two.]

Doyley: Dammit! Shoulder up by Paige again!

*Pop*

Keiler: Egerton throwing everything but the kitchen sink at our Emerald Isle champion here but it’s not enough to put him away, yet.

[Egerton chewing his lip, gets back to his feet, stomps Paige once, then drops back down and delivers several stiff mounted punches before being admonished by the referee.]

Doyley: I’m not sure Paige can withstand this assault for much longer.

[Egerton pulls Paige back to his feet hits a Dragon Suplex and rolls up, making a hand gesture that the match is over. Egerton begins to climb the ropes.]

Keiler: Egerton going back to his native style, he knows how & when to go to the top & make it pay; it was his meat & potatoes during his early career in Georgia & California.

[Egerton on the top rope, signals again with a hand gesture that the match is over, he leaps…

*POP*

_BUMP_

*Ohhhhhh* ...But Paige gets his knees up to block the Shooting Star Press attempt.]

Doyley: David Paige at the last moment thwarts the most stunning move I think I’ve seen.

Keiler: It was high risk from the challenger and it didn’t pay off.

[Both men struggle in the ring, Egerton clutching his gut, Paige holding his head. The referee begins to count both men out.]

Doyley: Race to reach their feet here, both men suffering.

Keiler: You can say that again.

[The referee reaches the count of three, there’s no sign of movement from either man.]

Doyley: OK landlubber. Race to reach their feet here, both men suffering.

Keiler: Heh... funny. _Not_.

[Paige begins to move, rolling onto his stomach, Egerton still balled up clutching abdomen. The officials count is up to five.]

Keiler: Movement from Paige, thankfully, we want this issue decided these two men have been battling ever since Egerton offered Paige a shot at the title when he was champion to keep Paige onside at Shockwave.

Doyley: Egerton defeated Paige on that occasion, but came undone against Henry. Just last March of the Republic Paige took the title from Henry.

[Paige crawls to the ropes and begins to use the ropes to get back to his vertical base, Egerton begins to move finally, unfolding himself from the fetal position he’d assumed. Referee indicates to the crowd the count is up to eight with all four fingers raised on each hand.]

Keiler: And of course, Jake Devins who’s due to compete later tonight is always looking for a shot at that title.

Doyley: Yeah... Never discount the Assassin, he makes people bleed for fun.

[Paige is back on his feet, the referee quits counting as Paige moves towards Egerton cautiously.]

Keiler: Well Jake Devins' primary concern tonight is getting the Double Crown title back, right now these two men are contesting the Emerald Isle title and after a lull in offense, David Paige is looking to retain.

[Paige pulls Egerton back to his feet, with two hands around the waist and delivers a Release German Suplex. Paige slowly rolls back to his feet, stomps Egerton once, twice, three times before again pulling the challenger back up. Paige whips Egerton to the ropes, Egerton rebounds right into a Dropkick.]

Keiler: Could that be enough for the Irish man?

[Paige makes a tired looking cover.]

[One.]

[Two.]

Doyley: No Chris Egerton rolls a shoulder up, just in time.

Keiler: Paige looking tired this match has taken its toll on both competitors.

[Paige assists Egerton back to his feet, putting the challenger in position for a Pump Handle Slam; Paige lifts Egerton and slams him into the canvas. Paige delivers a couple of stomps, before beginning to pull Egerton up again.]

Doyley: Without a shadow of a doubt, but for both men the stakes are high. It’d be funny if Paige didn’t even manage to defend his newly won title once.

Keiler: Not looking likely at the moment, Kel.

[Egerton jabs a thumb into the eye of Paige is pulling him to his feet.]

Doyley: Say what?

Keiler: Cheap shot by Egerton.

[Egerton back to his feet lifts Paige into the Torture Rack position.]

Doyley: Paige is in prime position for the blackout driver! This is it!

[Suddenly Paige springs to life, expecting this, and reverses it into a rolling crucifix pin]

Keiler: Paige knew what was coming!

[One.]

[Two.]

[Egerton kicks out.]

Doyley: But the challenger kicked out!

[Paige back to his feet, as Egerton rolls back up, points to his head and shouts at the challenger “what now?”]

Keiler: Paige goading Egerton.

Doyley: Not a good idea.

[Anger means Egerton swings with a wild Lariat that Paige avoids, by ducking. Paige catches Egerton with a boot to the midriff and a Brainbuster floating over into the cover.]

Keiler: Egerton let his rage get the better of him, can its architect Paige make it count?

[One.]

[Two.]

[Three.]

*Ding, Ding*

*POP*

[Egerton kicks out a moment too late.]

Doyley: NO!!!!!!!!!!!

Keiler: Paige did it, he used Egerton’s rage against the former champion and retains the Emerald Isle Championship.

[A frustrated Egerton slams his fists into the canvas several times.]

[Almost on auto pilot, Paige has rolled to the outside to grab the title and avoid the attack, the referee slides out the ring to raise the champion’s hand.]

Harjinder: Your winner and _STILL_ Wrestling Republics Emerald Isle Champion… “IRISH FIRE” DAAAAAVVIIIIDDDDD PPPAAAIIIIIGGGGGEEEE!!!!!!!!

[“Thrown Away” by VAST begins to echo through Ravenhill, Stadium as Egerton sits ruefully in the ring, eyeing the champion with contempt, Paige celebrates with the Irish Public as he exits raising the title belt high above his head.]

Keiler: Well David Paige retains. For Chris Egerton, the unwanted streak of results continues with another loss, I hope against hope that tonight’s disappointment wont lead to the ‘Dark Places’ of squalor he discovered in before his return to the ring, or worse. But tonight in Ireland, the Irish will toast one of their own retaining the Emerald Isle Championship Belt.

Doyley: I’m sure the guy will come back, more intent on taking that title.

Keiler: I hope so, but tonight as far as Wrestling Republic is concerned belongs to that young man right there. David Paige, the ‘Irish Fire’. Remember folks you can catch such action as this regularly on March of the Republic. Available throughout Europe and America on Setanta Sports.

[As Paige disappears, Egerton finally leaves the ring, exiting through the crowd.]

Doyley: Ratings, whore.

Keiler: You like your job don’t you.

Doyley: Yeah.

Keiler: Well we need those ratings.

[Backstage.]

[Here in the backstage area of Ravenhill Stadium, we find locker rooms. Specifically, the locker room area set aside for tonight's challengers for the WWA World Tag Team Titles, the Conspiracy. And, as if on cue, the aforementioned challengers arrive from the parking lot. The leader and mouthpiece, "Wise Guy" Wyatt Connors, whistling a merry tune. It's probably a song about someone receiving grievous bodily harm. Well, that's Wyatt Connors for you.]

[Just behind him is "The Judge" Deacon Dale, the muscle of the Conspiracy. He also looks rather pleased, which is not something often seen from him. But then, if you had the chance to fulfill a dream you've been working toward for over fifteen years, you'd probably be a little excited too.]

[The only member of this happy band that doesn't look so happy is "Rotten" T.J. Ratigan. In fact, he looks like someone took a dump in his pillowcase. This probably has to do with the fact that he drew the metaphorical short straw, and will be watching the Conspiracy's match from outside the ring.]

Connors: Why the long face, Trevor? You're bringing me down.

Ratigan: Gee, I'm real sorry, sir.

[He's not, of course. He was being sarcastic. That means his paycheck will be a little lighter than usual.]

Connors: Seriously, though. If you want to see the inside of the ring ever again, you will quit that goddamn sulking immediately.

[That seems to do the trick, as Ratigan's facial expression changes to...well, it's no longer actively unpleasant, anyway.]

Connors: That's better. Anyway, I need you focused as well tonight, Trevor. We're counting on you to keep away all the chaos which will likely surround this match. Just because you won't be in the ring, it doesn't mean your performance is not vital. Understand?

Ratigan: Yeah, I guess...

Connors: Good. Now, then. What say we get down to business? I'll just...

[Connors looks around the room for something, only to find that it isn't there.]

Connors: Trevor, where did you put my briefcase?

[Ratigan shrugs in response.]

Connors: I *did* ask you to bring it along. There are files that I need.

Ratigan: I didn't have it. It's probably still in the car.

[And now, Connors turns his annoyed glare to the junior member of the Conspiracy. When properly tuned, this look could cut glass.]

Connors: Then you had better go and get it, hadn't you.

[T.J. Ratigan opens his mouth to protest, but one look at Wyatt's face tells him just how futile that would be. Grumbling, he stands up and walks out the door, heading back for the parking lot.]

Connors: And be quick about it!

[But of course, Ratigan can't hear him. Connors shakes his head in disappointment.]

Connors: I don't know what's gotten into that boy.

Dale: Ah, he's just upset about not getting in the match. He'll be--

Connors: I was being facetious, Deacon. Of course I know what's wrong. Never presume to tell me anything again, unless I specifically ask you.

Dale: Sorry, sir.

[A reprimanded Deacon Dale turns away and thrusts his hands in his pockets. Then his eyes go a bit wide, as realization comes over him.]

Dale: Oh, jeez.

Connors: What?

Dale: He won't be able to get in. I still have the car keys.

[Wyatt rolls his eyes. You work so hard to make your boys not look stupid, and how do they repay you?]

Connors: Go. If you hurry, you can catch him before he makes it to the parking lot.

Dale: All right. You'll be okay by yourself?

[In response, Wyatt blinks.]

Connors: Probably not. The entire time you're gone, I'll be sitting here, experiencing fear at a pants-wetting level. Get the hell out of here.

[Deacon Dale turns and leaves, with only Connors remaining behind. Wyatt shakes his head at his tag team partner's mother-hen attitude.]

Connors: I think he might be starting to lose it in his old age.

[With that, the leader of the Conspiracy concerns himself with other details...unpacking his ring gear, going over last-minute plans in his head; that kind of thing. So when the door opens again, he naturally assumes its Deacon, and keeps on about his business.]

[It's funny, really. Wyatt Connors spent a fair amount of time this week talking about the arrogance of his opponents.]

[Yet it is Connors' own arrogance that is his undoing tonight.]

SFX: Click!

[Out go the lights.]

Connors: Hey! What the--

SFX: THWACK! THWACK! THWACK!

[Out goes the Wise Guy.]

SFX: THWACK! THWACK!

[Cut.]

[In the crowd wonders WR reporter, student in journalism, Raj Patel is searching the massed ranks of wrestling fans for someone.]

[The smartly attired Asian, spots his target and calls the camera to follow.]

[Patel takes a moment to compose himself before patting a shaven headed, stocky looking Afro-Caribbean man on the shoulder to get his attention.]

Raj: Lemual Jordon.

[It is indeed OCW’s “the Colt” who casts a glance at the reporter.]

Lemual: What’s up?

Raj: So you’re here as a fan tonight?

Lemual: Sure am. Wouldn’t miss it.

Raj: After two showings at the previous two WWA PPV events, you must be gutted to not have been booked.

Lemual: Not really, I’ve no kind of form or momentum I’m struggling to shake off the injury I sustained at Shockwave, it’s healed I’m just rusty. Besides it’s good to remember why I love this, without the pressure of a match.

Raj: So any predictions for the rest of the night?

Lemual: It’ll be a barn-burning success, I’m hoping Thomas Bane brings the WWA Heavyweight title back to the Bunkhouse.

Raj: Thanks for your time.

[Patel is about to leave, Jordon puts a hand on the arm of the swanky clad reporter.]

Lemual: Hey, let me introduce my brother to you.

[Next to Lemual Jordon is his younger brother Toussaint, complete with a big afro. The teenager waves.]

Lemual: This is Toussaint, he’s through with college and looking to get signed.

Raj: I’m sure, if he has the passion his big brother does, he won’t be short on offers. Enjoy the show, both of you.

[The lights dim in the arena. "All Out" by 2 Pac and Outlawz's opening helicopter sound blares over the speakers, and the fans begin to boo. The Untouchables logo appears on the screen above the ramp, followed by the four faces of the current members. Clips of Danny Vicious' career begin playing as the lyrics come in.]

# We goin all out (aiiiite) #
# We goin all out (aiiiite) We goin all out, #
# watch ya motherfuckin mouth niggaz #
# (That's right, fuck these fag niggaz) Do it, do it, do it #
# Come hell or high water, down to slaughter opposers #
# Just another lost soul, stuck, callin Jehovah #
# Outlaw 'til it's over, brand as my strap #
# Back like a cobra, I stay drunk, cause I'm a mad man #
# Whenever sober, on a one man mission #
# My ambition to hold up the rap game #
# While I pluck holes in niggaz like donuts#

Harjinder: And now, introducing first, the challenger. Weighing in at 260 lbs, and hailing from Hamilton, Ontario Canada, he is a member of OLW's Untouchables, and the number one contender for the OLW Heavyweight title. Ladies and gentlemen, "THE SENSATIONNNN"... DANNNYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY VICIOUSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!

[Boos rain down as Vicious steps out onto the ramp, wearing his silver Oakley shades, his Untouchables t-shirt, and his cap covering his bandana. He's also wearing a smug, cocky expression on his face. He completely ignores the fans as he quickly strides to the ring.]

Keiler: Danny Vicious seems ready for his match tonight. Not minding the fans or anything, just getting to the ring so he can get business done.

Doyley: He may be a jerk, but he's got the right mind for the business.

# And still down to die for all my souljas #
# Like hillbillies, they don't fear me #
# So refuse bringin war to the city #
# With each breath, death before dishonor #
# Never let you swallow me, no apologies, your honor #
# A general in war, I'm the first to bomb #
# With a squad of trusted killers, quick to move shit heavily armed #
# I'm similar to Saddam, sometimes I question Hussein #

[Vicious jogs up the steps and walks through the middle and top ropes. He quickly removes his accessories and faces the ramp. He begins motioning for Christenson to come out. His music fades abruptly, but the boos do not die out. Danny acknowledges this with a one finger salute to the fans.]

Keiler: Danny really isn't wasting time. He wants Christenson NOW!

[Vicious’ theme fades, to be replaced by the wicked opening riff of “Ghost Along the Mississippi” by Down.]

# In the morning #
# It takes me quite a while to clear my head #
# And as the day moves on #
# I find it hard to smile at something said #

Harjinder: And his opponent! Hailing from New Orleans, Louisiana, and weighing in at 286 lbs! He is the reigning OLW Heavyweight Champion… COLE… CHRRIIISSSTEENNNSOON!!!

# So I took control #
# Priority number one, and that’s me #
# Then I cut the dragon’s head off #
# And put away my gun, so let it be #
# So let it be #

[Cole Christenson walks out of the back quietly without bothering to acknowledge the fans. Their reaction to him is mildly negative. He wears a white windbreaker over his trunks, open down the front to reveal the OLW Heavyweight Title strapped around his waist. He bounces on the balls of his feet, staring down the ramp at Vicious.]

Keiler: And there’s the champion. Cole Christenson went into OLW’s War Games match and outlasted fifteen other wrestlers, defeating Vicious last of all with his ‘Big Easy’ tazmission clutch finisher. His attitude towards this match, and the WWA in general, however, has been rather… stand-offish, would be the best word for it.

Doyley: And that’s why the fans don’t care. Now I understand Christenson’s quite the hero in his home fed. So, like, maybe the lack of fan response for him is going to play a factor in the match?

# I’m dying (I’m dying!) #
# Prematurely #
# I’m wasting (I’m wasting!) #
# My life for sure #
# I’m trying (…I’m trying…) #
# To kill what’s happening to me #
# A ghost along the Mississippi #

[Christenson walks down the ramp and stops at the foot of the ring, taking his windbreaker off, and the title into his hand, before climbing into the ring.]

# Never thought before #
# A life could be so strange, yeah #
# And I guess my one a day #
# Became ten or twelve or more, and more, and more #
# But I got a gift #
# It’s something called my friends or love #
# With them and I combined #
# I’ll beat an early end #
# It’s been done before #
# It’s been done before #

[As the music fades, Christenson hands off the title to the referee.]

DING! DING! DING!

[Right at the bell, Vicious charges Christenson, throwing wild punches. The bigger wrestler is backed to the ropes as he covers up, but he bounces off them with the rope-a-dope, sending Vicious head over heels with a high front kick! Vicious rolls to his feet, charges back in, Christenson sidesteps and drives a roundhouse into Vicious’ ribs, doubling him over, and follows with an axe kick to the back. Vicious drops and rolls to safety.]

Keiler: Attacking like that isn’t going to do Vicious much good. He’s got a lot of fight, but he’s in there against a wrestler who’s bigger, stronger, tougher and younger.

[Vicious again charges in, leading with punches. He has much less success this time. Christenson catches the arm, pulls him in and tosses him overhead with a gargoyle suplex! The fans let loose with a small cheer, causing Vicious to turn and scream “SHUT UP!” at them. The cheers turn to boos from Vicious. Christenson stands back.]

Doyley: So Christenson isn’t really showing much respect for his challenger, either.

Keiler: He said that he would rather be fighting either Jeffy Andrews or Kai Scott. Andrews and Scott of course are Vicious’ stable-mates, and they’re probably lurking backstage somewhere. Vicious heard that, of course, didn’t like hearing it. He’s also gone on the record saying that the only reason Christenson’s been so successful is because people are intimidated by him… but so far Christenson’s showing more than enough talent.

[Vicious turns around and charges Christenson, who prepares to intercept him… Vicious puts the breaks on just out of arms reach! Christenson freezes in confusion, only for a brief second – but just long enough for Vicious to CLOBBER him with an Enziguri!]

Doyley: Oh he’s not going to be able to shake that one off! And Vicious clotheslines Christenson over the ropes, following him out of the ring!

Keiler: Vicious trying to get some major damage done here in the early goings, and he’s ramming Christenson’s face into the ring apron! Irish whip into the guardrail! Irish whip into the ring post! Christenson’s down, Vicious stomping away!

[As Christenson covers up at the foot of the ramp, the ref begins the count. Vicious rolls in at the count of 8, then back out. Picking the big man up, Vicious hooks him for a vertical suplex… directly onto the ramp!]

CLAAANGG!!!

Keiler: There is NO GIVE in that metal! Christenson hit hard. Vicious, throwing Christenson into the ring now… no, just to the apron.

[Vicious hits Christenson with an elbow to the chest while Christenson lies on the apron. Christenson rolls into the ring, and begins slowly getting to his feet. Vicious, following up, heads to the top rope, and comes off with a flying cross body block, hooking a leg for the pin!]

1…

2…

Kickout!

[Vicious slashes his thumb across his throat and drags Christenson into powerbomb position. He’s promptly back dropped, about 8 feet up in the air. Christenson shakes his head and wipes a trickle of blood off his forehead before turning back to Vicious. Grabbing Vicious by the head, Christenson whips him off the ropes, throws a spinning back kick… Vicious ducks! Rebounding off the far ropes, Vicious leaves his feet to drive into Christenson with a flipping clothesline! Another cover by Vicious!]

1…

2…

Kickout!

Doyley: Vicious, looking pretty good right now, but he’s not a small man and he’s doing a lot of moving around. He needs to be careful not to gas himself.

Keiler: When you’re in the ring against someone like Cole Christenson, you have to adjust your style, because the normal stuff doesn’t work so well on him.

[Vicious heads to the top rope and comes off with a flying elbow…that misses! Vicious’ elbow hits the mat, and he gets up holding the arm. Christenson wrenches the arm behind his back in a hammerlock, and then back drops him on the arm! Now it’s Christenson’s turn to head off the ropes, and he catches Vicious flush with a leg lariat! Vicious drops. Hauling him back to his feet, Christenson blasts Vicious with a roundhouse kick to the jaw that spins him around, and a release German suplex! And…]

Keiler: The Untouchables have seen enough! Jeff Andrews leading Kai Scott and Ronnie Long down to the ring here, and Christenson turning to address them. Andrews flips Christenson off… oh lord, do those two hate each other.

Doyley: I dunno if that was a good idea though, looks like Christenson’s going to deal with his frustration by kicking Vicious. Over and over again. In the corner. Ouch.

[Jeff Andrews jumps up on the apron. Christenson doesn’t bother looking at him. Instead, he turns to the opposite side of the ring, and locks gazes with Kai Scott, who’d just rolled in under the ropes. Kai gets a “who, me?” expression, and slides back out to the floor where he belongs. Christenson snapmares Vicious, kicks him in the back of the head, and goes for the cover… but Andrews still has the ref!]

Keiler: The numbers game taking effect. Christenson normally has a pack, an unofficial stable if you will, consisting of himself, Heidi and Adam Delicious, but OLW Management, of which Kai Scott is a part, refused to give Heidi and Adam tickets to come to Ireland… so now Christenson is outnumbered 4-1.

[Two people suddenly come running out of the back. The reaction is minimal, as these two haven’t made any attempts to get noticed outside their region. One is a girl, wearing, as she puts it, “Black, and not very much of it.” Her name is Gemma Lockhart. The other is a man, slightly bigger than Andrews on the outside but smaller than Vicious, wearing leather pants. His name is Daeriq Damien.]

[Andrews sees them. He shouts.]

Keiler: That’s the Children of the Damned! Two thirds of the former OLW Trios Tag Team Champions… they must be here on their own, and they’re here to balance out the numbers game!

Doyley: Christenson trying to shake off the distractions, going back after Vicious. Pulls him up, whips him into the corner. Charging… Vicious gets the boots up!

Keiler: Christenson staggers back, Vicious climbing the ropes… missile dropkick! That put the big man down! Heading to another turnbuckle… moonsault!

1…

2…

THRE…Kickout!

Keiler: Near fall there, and Christenson didn’t launch Vicious into the air like he was doing earlier in the match.

[Vicious scoops Christenson up and plants him with a rib breaker. Hanging on, he hits a second one.]

Doyley: And Vicious showing some power of his own there.

[Outside the ring, Daeriq Damien and Jeffy Andrews shout and glare at each other. Gemma stands next to Damien, keeping her eyes on Kai Scott. Ronnie Long is not visible in the camera angle.]

Keiler: And it’s a decent strategy by Vicious. Go to the air to get him off his feet, and then go to work on the endurance. Running senton splash across the ribs by Vicious.

[There’s another reaction.]

Keiler: And that’s Dean Hobkirk coming down the ramp! He and Vicious exchanged words earlier on the card…

[Vicious, on seeing Hobkirk, leaves Christenson and runs to the ropes to scream at him. Christenson, free to catch his breath, quietly gets up… and catches Vicious from behind with a rolling clutch pin!]

1…

2…

3!!!

KICKOUT!

Doyley: SO CLOSE! Christenson came with nanoseconds of retaining his title there… and I believe Andrews is informing Hobkirk that he’s to leave ringside immediately.

[Discretion is the better part of valor when dealing with a lunatic like Jeff Andrews. Hobkirk takes it to the back.]

Keiler: Ganmengiri!

[Christenson has caught the rising Vicious with his jumping kick to the forehead.]

Keiler: That’s his setup move for his finishers, and the Untouchables are trying to get involved! Damien pulling Andrews off the apron, Gemma grabbing Scott by the leg! We’ve got a fist fight between Damien and Andrews, Scott trying to get Gemma off his leg… the ref’s trying to get the fight broken up, and there’s Long in the ring! He’s got the OLW Heavyweight Title!

[Christenson, instinctively, catches Long with a sole butt. Long drops the title.]

Keiler: Christenson doubles Long over, he’s setting up for the Southern Cross… LONG SPINS OUT AND WIPES CHRISTENSON OUT WITH THE WESTERN LARIAT! I can’t believe it! Lariat from Long! Long pulling Christenson up, Vicious taking aim… AND HE CLOCKS CHRISTENSON WITH THE TITLE BELT!

[Long grabs the title and vacates the ring. Vicious pulls Christenson to his feet.]

Keiler: The ref’s paying attention now! Damien saw Long in the ring and tried to stop him, but he turned his back on Andrews and got low-blowed! Vicious, setting Christenson up… CANADIAN BOMBSHELL!

1…

2…

3!!!

DING! DING! DING!

Harjinder: Here is your winner, and NEW OLW Heavyweight Champion… DANNY! VICIOUS!

[Andrews, Scott and Long dive into the ring. The boos rain down as Andrews and Long pull Vicious to his feet and Scott hands him the OLW Heavyweight Title belt.]

Keiler: It’s been a long road to the top for Danny Vicious, and it’s nice, in a way, to see him get his time at the top. But he’s going to have to defend that belt in OLW, where the Untouchables won’t be able to run rampant like they have here tonight.

[Vicious hits the turnbuckle, raising the title above his head.]

[Lonopele gazed around the locker room as he placed his duffel bag down on the ground. Kamuela, following behind the Polynesian wrestler, pats his client’s shoulder as if to say, “Hey, bud, we made it to the big time.”]

[Note: The following conversation unfolds in Lonopele’s native diction, but a hired translator was paid to provide subtitles at the bottom of the screen.]

Kamuela: “You feeling okay?”

[Lonopele rubs his round belly beneath his white shirt.]

Lonopele: “I’m hungry.”

Kamuela: “Brah, you’re always hungry. We just ate at McDonalds an hour ago.

Lonopele: “Only four of those little sandwiches. Can you get me something else?”

[Kamuela hit his palm against his forehead.]

Kamuela: [With a sigh] “Alright. I’ll see if there’s a vending machine around here.”

Lonopele: “Thanks, bruddah.”

[Lonopele watches as Kamuela exits the locker room and an enormous toothy grin formulates on his face. Lonopele quietly creeps out the door and heads in the opposite direction.]

Lonopele: [to the cameraman] “I smell the scent of women. I know there are a few of them here. I just need to find them. Can you help me?”

[The cameraman shrugs.]

Lonopele: “Figures.”

[Lonopele shoves the man down as the feed begins to cut out.]

Lonopele: “I’ll undergo this dangerous mission all by myself.”

Adrien: It’s going to start in a few minutes! How’s the popcorn coming?

[AWA superstar Adrien Cochrane is sitting on his recliner in the Live Wire locker room in the Ravenhill Stadium backstage area. Dean Hobkirk walks by and takes a seat on the couch, with two bags of what seem to be popcorn. Dean Hobkirk places on the end table by Adrien’s recliner. Adrien stands up.]

Dean Hobkirk: What I miss? Did the match start yet?

Adrien: Nah, not yet. I’m going to get the drinks.

[Adrien walks away. Dean sits quietly watching the previews of the match between Caleb Wallace and Fury vs. Code and Sam “The Man” Horrey. The television plays a clip from one of Sam Horrey’s promos.]

Television Voice Over: This is what Sam said after he heard the news of Dean Hobkirk’s involvement in the Seaham Bank Robbery:

Sam Horrey(on the television): Probably wet himself.

Voice Over: Sam injured Dean Hobkirk, and Dean was out for two months with his injuries. Dean Hobkirk, who has recently. . .

[Dean turns the television volume down; low enough for the commercial to be inaudible. Adrien comes back in with cases of drinks. In his right hand, he has a case of Barq’s Root Beer. His left hand holds a case of Mountain Dew. He places the Barq’s by his seat and the Mountain Dew by Dean. Dean’s facial expression shows a combination of disbelief and anger.]

Adrien: Yo, Deano! You okay, dude?

[Dean sits in silence. Adrien reaches in Dean’s case of Mountain Dew, pulls out a can, opens it, and puts it on the coffee table in front of him.]

Adrien: I got your Mountain Dew.

[Adrien looks at Dean in confusion. He then looks at the television and sees Sam. Adrien turns to Dean and speaks in a reassuring manner.]

Adrien: Ah, don’t let him bother you. His time to shine is coming to an end. It’s beginning to be a new era in the AWA, as well as the WWA. The Live Wire era! Now, are we going to watch Sam Horrey get his butt handed to him on a silver platter!

[A smile comes across the face of Dean Hobkirk. Adrien pats his partner on the back.]

Adrien: There you go.

[Adrien grabs his bag of popcorn from the end table. He takes a handful and puts it in his mouth. Dean, finally shows signs of life when he takes a sip of his Mountain Dew and another piece of popcorn. He suddenly speaks.]

Dean: We are going to win the AWA Tag Team titles, aren’t we?

[Adrien replies quickly.]

Adrien: Nothing can stop us now. Those titles are as good as ours. But don’t worry about that just yet. The match is about to start.

[The scene returns back to the arena.]

Keiler: Tonight!! The AWA Heavyweight Championship and AWA Arena Championship will be on the line in a tag-team match that I firmly believe will blow the roof off the arena here tonight. Calib Wallace the former AWA Heavyweight Champion, teams with AWA Arena Champion Fury, and they will be up against the combination of the number one contender for the Arena Champion Code, and his partner, the AWA Heavyweight Champion, Sam "The Man" Horrey.

Doyley: The rules to this match are simple: If either Calib Wallace or Fury is pinned, Code will become the new AWA Arena Champion. If Code or Sam "The Man" Horrey are pinned, Calib Wallace will become a two-time AWA Heavyweight Champion.

Keiler: Who has the most to gain in this match?

Doyley: Obviously both Calib Wallace and Code. However Wallace and Fury have the advantage because they've worked together as a team longer, they're more of a unit because they're friends outside the ring. Sam and Code barely know each other, and that will be their downfall.

Keiler: That's a very good point Kelly, but time will only tell. Let's go down to ringside.

Harjinder: Ladies and Gentlemen, the next match on WWA I-Wars is a tag-team Double Jeopardy match for the AWA Heavyweight and AWA Arena Championships!!!

[Crowd pops...]

Harjinder: The rules are as follows: If either the AWA Heavyweight Champion, the AWA Arena Champion, or their partners are pinned, the wrestler on the opposing team without a championship, will win the championship from the opposing wrestler's team.

[The lights dim as a few notes hit with some hard bass.]

"We The Best!”

“We Takin' Over!”

“Listeeeeennnnnn!”

[Lights flash as the verse picks up to “We Taking Over” fills the arena. Out comes Derek Shanahan and Chris Hollywood, smiling to the audience. There clad in a white Armani suits, dressed to kill Behind them is the AWA Arena Champion, Fury, with his wife Tasha on his side. He gloats to everyone wearing half orange, half black tights, with white barb wire surrounding them, black kick pads next to black knee pads, along with black tape and elbow pads to match. He has on a white and black doo-rag on his head, with a shirt cut down the sides with “AWA” written on the center...]

Harjinder: Introducing first, at a combined weight of 440 pounds the tag-team combination of Calib Wallace, and the AWA Arena Champioooooooooooonnnnnnn Fuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrryyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!!

[Camera pans in on a shot of the current #1 contender to AWA Heavyweight Championship, Calib Wallace. He has on gold and black biker tights, black knee pads and black and gold kick pads. He's taped in black and gold from his mid fingers to his forearms, and has on black elbow pads. He has on a large pleather coat with “Calib Wallace” on the back in gold over the black fabric...]

Doyley: Does he not have the look of a man getting ready to take back his position as the number one man in the entire AWA?

Keiler: They do look extremely confident, I'll give them that. But it takes more than confidence to be a champion here in the AWA.

[The crowd continues to jeer both Calib and Fury as they make their way inside the ring...]

"If you want to, we can supply you”
“Got enough work, to feed the whole town”
“They won't shoot you, unless you try to”
“Come around and try to stomp on our ground”
“Cause we takin' over, one city at a time”
“Said we takin' over, one city at a time”
“Said we takin' over, one city at a time”
“Said we takin' over, one city at a time"

Doyley: Some class these people have, booing two of the best in the AWA. Actually, soon to be THE top two in the AWA.

Keiler: Folks right now we have Crystal Gale with a word from their opponents.

[Camera pans backstage to Code and Sam "The Man" Horrey standing with the WR backstage interviewer Raj Patel.]

Patel: I am here with Code and the AWA Heavyweight Champion, Sam "The Man" Horrey. Guys, either both of you walk out of here with gold, or you leave empty handed. You in particular Sam.

Sam: That is the truth Raj, if I've ever heard it. But I believe in my partner Code, when he tells me that he'd like nothing more than to pin either Fury or Wallace and walk out with the AWA Arena Championship. Wallace, Fury; you have to believe me when I say that against me, neither one of you have a chance. But you see more than that, there's a bigger picture to this story that none of you realize. It's called Summer Games folks, and when this match is over Wallace, Fury, I promise you that picture will be crystal clear.

[Code and Horrey are both walking towards the entrance ramp as stage attendants, and production assistants are scurrying about...]

Keiler: What do you think Sam means by "bigger picture?"

Doyley: Rumor has it that the winners of this match will have tremendous influence as to who gets picked for the AWA Summer Games team. As we all know, Summer Games is the biggest pay-per-view of the year for the WWA. If the rumor is indeed true, we may be looking at the captains of AWA's Summer Games team

[Camera pans back into the interior of the arena with Wallace and Fury motioning towards the entrance ramp for their opponents to come to the ring. The crowd begins to stir as the arena lights dim...]

"Yeah..."

"When I'm Out In NY...Boys, Blunts And Phillies...
When I'm Out In LA...Boys, Wraps And Swishes..."

[The crowd comes alive as the baseline drops...]

"Now Blood Walk To This Now Crip Walk To This
Now Throw It Up, Raise It Up For This Gangsta Shit.
Now Blood Walk to this, Now Crip Walk to this
Now Throw It Up, Raise It Up For This Gangsta Shit."

[50 Cent's "Straight to the Bank" kicked into it's first verse, Code came to the forefront first with his traditional blue cammo pants and black towel over his head to a strong ovation. Sam "The Man" Horrey followed suit with his orange and white hooded, silk robe...]

Doyley: Sam does not look comfortable at all.

Keiler: I imagine he wouldn't be. You said it yourself, he doesn't have much, if any experience with Code. With what's on the line, would you trust your championship reign on the shoulders of someone you are not entirely familiar with?

Harjinder: Introducing their opponents, at a total combined weight of 457 lbs this is "The Unbreakable" Code, and the AWA Heavyweight Champion, Sam "The Maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannnnnnnnnn" Hoooooooorrrrrrrreeeeeeeyyyyyyyyy

[Sam and Code power walked their way to the ring. Once inside, they both jumped around before high-fiving each other as the fans continued to applaud their entry into the ring. Sam and Fury simultaneously handed their championship belts to the referee, who held both belts over his head. Sam stepped between the ropes, waiting on the ring apron as he patted Code on the back. Fury stepped between the ropes allowing Calib to start the match...]

DING DING DING!!!!

[Code and Wallace circle each other before tying up in a collar-to-elbow...]

Keiler: We're off and running, but to tell you the truth, I'm a little surprised that Sam didn't start this match off seeing as he and Wallace have this rivalry going on.

Doyley: I agree. Not to mention that if I had my Heavyweight Championship on the line, I'd wanna be the one that stays in and defends that title.

[Wallace took Code down with a snap arm-drag. Code remained on one knee while Wallace gloated and played to the crowd who booed him in return...]

Keiler: Impressive arm-drag by Wallace.

Doyley: Would it kill the crowd to show this man a little respect?

[Wallace and Code hooked up in another collar-to-elbow tie-up, and Wallace snapped him down to the mat again with an arm-drag. Wallace took no time in posing to the crowd, and pointing towards Code who nodded his head, his eyes seething with anger...]

Doyley: Wallace is getting inside the mind of Code here, folks. Watch a true master at work.

[Code stood back to his feet, and motioned with his hands for the crowd's support; support they gave him in full. Code and Wallace locked up once more. Wallace won out squeezing on a tight side headlock. Code then Irish-whipped Wallace into the opposing ropes. As Wallace rebounded, Code dropped down and Wallace jumped over him towards the opposite side ring ropes. As Wallace rebounded off those, he ducked under a Code-initiated leap frog. Wallace again rebounded off another set of opposite ropes, but was not expecting Code to follow him...]

Keiler: Dropkick!! What timing by Code!!!

Doyley: He sent Wallace to the ringside floor!!! Wait, here comes Fury!!

Keiler: OOHHHHHH MY!!! What a backdrop!!! He sent Fury down to the arena floor and he Wallace will take a powder!!!

[The crowd had came alive and were on their feet as Code went and gave Sam a high-five. Wallace and Fury, along with their entourage, looked from the outside, pointing and taunting at him. Once the crowd cooled down some, Calib stepped back inside the ring...]

Doyley: Good ring psychology on the part of the former AWA Heavyweight Champion. Code was on a roll, so Wallace and Fury stay outside the ring to cool him off. That's straight from my playbook there, James.

[Wallace circled Code, with Code unknowingly showing his back to Fury. Fury took advantage and slapped Code on the back to get his attention. When Code turned towards Fury, Wallace blasted Code, with a jumping Enziguri to the back of Code's head. That prompted Sam to come into the ring, to which the referee quickly shooed him back to the ring apron...]

Doyley: That right there, is the story of the whole match. Fury set up Code, for Wallace to take advantage. Sam is drawn into the ring, gaining the ref's attention and Code is the victim of a double team.

[With Code in their corner, on the receiving end of punches, kicks and stomps, Wallace tags in Fury, and Fury continues the assault...]

Keiler: I guess they figure they'll legally tag in now, huh?

Doyley: Better than Sam coming into the ring illegally.

[Code is taken down to the mat, courtesy of a Northern Lights Suplex...]

Keiler: This could be it!!!

1…

2…

Keiler: That was close folks.

Doyley: Did you see how fast Sam came into the ring?

Keiler: If Code were pinned ladies and gentlemen, Sam "The Man" Horrey would have lost the AWA Heavyweight Championship.

[Fury locked in a half-crab to Code, placing a great deal of torque onto Code's lower back, and knee. Sam stomped the mat, and clapped his hands attempting to get the crowd behind Code. The crowd stomped and clapped in kind, as Code based up to his hands and knee. He began pulling himself along with Fury towards his corner to make the tag to Sam, who held his hand outstretched...]

Keiler: Look at the guts of Code, even in the midst of what is sure to be excruciating pain, he's still trying to make that tag.

Doyley: I call it desperation James. Code now knows that he is in way over his head. The AWA Arena Champion is not gonna let go.

[Fury, at Shanahan's behest, released the hold to reposition Code more towards their corner. He tagged in Wallace, who ran over to swipe at Sam, drawing him into the ring again. As Sam and the referee argued, Fury and Wallace double-teamed Code yet again. When the referee turned around, Fury was out of the ring, and Code was trapped in a STF...]

Keiler: Sam's emotions are clearly getting the better of him in this match, and it's causing Code to suffer.

Doyley: That's the inexperience as a team that Sam and Code represent. Though I am a bit surprised that it's showing more on Sam's part than it is Code's.

Keiler: Yeah, I gotta admit that I'm surprised at this as well, Kelly. It's not like Sam to make these sort of mistakes. He's been a tag-team champion before.

Doyley: But never with someone he's not familiar with.

[Wallace let go of the STF and again walked towards Sam taunting him. Sam remained on the apron, this time not falling for the bait. The referee stepped in between the two men, while Fury came in and blatantly choked Code in their team's corner. The crowd booed heavily...]

Keiler: Come on, ref!!! You can't tell what's going on here?!

Doyley: Again, smart tactics by Wallace and Fury. They came in with a game plan, and they're executing it to a tee.

Keiler: But why not wrestle fair, why always resort to cheating to gain an advantage?

Doyley: As the famous saying goes, "If you're not cheating, you're not trying."

[Wallace delivered some hard kicks to the mid-section of Code along with some hard knife edged chops to Code's chest. Calib then Irish whipped Code into the ropes, but he ducked his head too early, and Code struck with a jumping scissors kick to the back Calib's head. The crowd came on its feet as Code lay prone on the mat...]

Keiler: Jumping axe kick by Code!! That came out of nowhere!!

Doyley: But can he make it to his corner to tag Sam? Look, Calib Wallace is already starting to make it to his feet.

[Groggily, Calib Wallace made it to his feet, as did Code. Code struck Wallace with a hard right hand, and followed with more, as the crowd began to stir...]

Keiler: How about the heart on Code, to take all that punishment and still be willing to dish it out.

Doyley: We're back to where we started in this match with Wallace and Code in the ring.

[Code, Irish whipped Wallace into the ropes, and Sam pulled the ropes down allowing Wallace to sail over the top rope and to the floor...]

Doyley: Now what the hell do you call that?!

Keiler: Hey turnabout is fair play Kelly, they've been double teaming to gain unfair advantages, all night. It's about time that they returned fire with fire.

Doyley: Until Wallace and Fury gain the upper hand again. Then it's 'Oh why can't win without cheating? How come they have to cheat?' I ask you James, why do Sam and Code have to cheat?!

Keiler: Hey Kelly, "If you're not cheating, you're not trying."

[The crowd exploded, as Fury ran in and received a Franken Steiner for his troubles. Fury then slid out to the floor to converse with his entourage...]

Keiler: Code has cleared the ring again!!!

[Code targeted Fury, Shanahan, and Chris Hollywood. He went to the top rope and peered down on them while they were conversing...]

Keiler: Keep your eye on Code here, folks!!!

Doyley: This cannot be good for Fury and his entourage.

Keiler: And they won't know until it's too late...OOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHH MYYYYYYY!!!!!!

[Code executed a breathtaking 450 splash to the outside to Fury, Shanahan and Hollywood to a symphony of flash bulbs. All four men were down on the outside as the crowd repeatedly chants "CODE!!! CODE!!! CODE!!!"....]

Keiler: With all the talk about Sam, Calib Wallace and the AWA Heavyweight Championship, let's not forget that the AWA Arena Championship is also on the line here tonight. If either Wallace or Fury lose, then Code walks out tonight with the AWA Arena Championship!!!

Doyley: That's what was going through Code's mind as he took then down with that 450 splash.

[Sam came into the ring, as Code may his way to the middle of the ring with him. They slapped each other five, and embraced each other...]

Keiler: Code, has turned the tide of this... WHAT THE HELL?!?!?!

[Sam keeping Code, in his embrace, executed an angled head-and-arm suplex to Code, dumping him directly on his head and neck. The loud crowd was stunned silent...]

Doyley: SAM 'THE MAN' HORREY HAS JUST BETRAYED HIS TAG-TEAM PARTNER CODE!!!!!!

Keiler: Why?! Why the hell would he do that?!

[The referee as well as Calib Wallace, who was about to enter the ring, were stunned. Sam smirked as he left the ring. Some fans were accosting him as he left, the least of which were Adrien and Dean Hobkirk, the tag-team combination known as Live Wire...]

Keiler: I-I-I can't believe what we have just seen. And he's walking away? He's just going to walk away from the AWA Heavyweight Championship?!

Doyley: Uh-oh. Look's like Adrien and Dean have something to say to Sam as well.

[Sam and Adrien began jawing at one another, which got heated. Adrien took a swing at Sam, but did not connect. Security guards flooded the area to break the two apart. Calib slid back into the ring, and motioned for a recovered Fury to join him in the ring...]

Keiler: Now Adrien taking a swing at him. It's a shame he missed.

Doyley: Before we find out why? There may have been a perfectly logical reason, for Sam to turn on Code. You never know, Code may have talked about Sam's mother, and from what I hear, that's just something you don't do.

Keiler: I doubt very seriously Kelly, that Code said something about Sam's mother.

[As Sam headed up the ramp, Fury set Code up for a powerbomb, and while he held Code's almost limp body in his arms Calib came off the top rope...]

Doyley: Shining Wizard from the top rope, into the powerbomb!!!!! It's all academic!!!

1…

2…

3!!!

DING DING DING!!!!!

Harjinder: Ladies and Gentlemen, the winners of the bout, still AWA Arena Champion Fury and the new AWA Heavyweight Champioooooooooonnnnnnnn Caliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiib Waaaaaaallllaaaaaaaaaaace!!!!!

Keiler: I can't believe it, I just can't believe it. What would possess Sam to not only turn on his partner, but leave the AWA the Heavyweight Championship?

Doyley: I'm telling you, Code said something about his mother.

Keiler: Will you shut up?! I'm serious here.

Doyley: Let's take a look at these replays shall we?

[Horrey's suplex to Code was shown...]

Doyley: There we see Sam "The Man" Horrey with a picture perfect angled head and arm suplex to Code. Did you see the balance, and how Sam popped from the hips? Did you see the arch James?

Keiler: Just call the damn replay.

Doyley: Okay.

[The double team, Shining Wizard/Powerbomb is shown in slow motion...]

Doyley: There's that amazing double team finisher Fury and Wallace used to put this scintillating tag-team match in the win column. Tremendous. Then Wallace hooks the leg for the one, two, three and we got a new AWA Heavyweight Champion.

Keiler: Ladies and gentlemen they’ll have more on this situation on Saturday Night Slam, hopefully we'll have an explanation for Sam "The Man" Horrey's actions.

Doyley: Let that be a lesson to any and all of you. Do NOT talk about Sam's mama.

Keiler: Isn’t that the truth! Let’s get on with the rest of WWA's I-Wars!!!

[Back in Jimmy Riley Central, "The Star of the Show" is focused on one task alone; tying his boots. He's lost in thought as the shadow of Billy Coles falls over him.]

Billy Coles: 'Ey, Misteh Rileh...

[Jimmy looks up at one of his two hired bodyguards, and motions to the chair next to him.]

Jimmy Riley: Sit down, man...what's on your mind?

[Billy obliges, and thinks for a second before speaking.]

Billy Coles: Ah know you got a lot on yer mind, there, but..Jus' want'd t' tell ya good luck out there t'night. Ain' mean much fer me really, but...Ah think yer a good fella, you n' Misteh Clayt'n keepin' Bubba n' me outta jail. Yeh done a lot fer us, an' yeh gonna get rewarded fer it...Ah can feel it in meh bones.

[Jimmy finishes tying his boots, and leans back in his seat, looking at Billy Coles.]

Jimmy Riley: ...Thanks. Didn't know you felt that way, Billy...I think, if I win this one...you and Bubba are going to get yourselves a raise.

[Billy simply grins as Jimmy continues.]

Jimmy Riley: Alright, I gotta go, somebody wants to talk to me about this match...as if I hadn't talked enough.

[Jimmy slaps Billy on the back and gets up, heading off to his interview.]

[Cut.]

[Once again, backstage.]

"Where the hell did you go? I waited by the car for ten minutes before you showed up!"

"Yeah, I...kinda got lost."

[Walking down the hall are the rank-and-file of the Conspiracy, "The Judge" Deacon Dale and "Rotten" T.J. Ratigan. Ratigan is carrying a black briefcase, which presumably holds many important files.]

Dale: There are signs, like, everywhere. How could you get lost?

Ratigan: 'Cause that's how I roll.

Dale: What?

[They are headed toward their locker room, blissfully unaware of what awaits them. This state of blissful unawareness will not last long, however.]

Dale: Let's hurry up; we've wasted enough time. Something tells me we're going to need to go over a lot of stuff for this one.

Ratigan: Well...I won't have to go over that much.

Dale: Man, would you stop it already? I know you're pissed; I would be too. But he's got a reason for what he did. And as much as you and I and everyone else hates the little prick, you have to admit that he knows what he's doing.

Ratigan: I ain't gotta admit beans, pally. I'm better than this crap detail he's giving me.

Dale: You know, maybe that attitude is exactly why he--WHOA!!

[That was the exact moment when Deacon Dale opened the door to the Conspiracy dressing room and looked inside. He looks absolutely horrified, and Ratigan's jaw drops in shock. What is it that they see, that makes them react in such a way?]

[There, lying on the floor in a small pool of blood, is "Wise Guy" Wyatt Connors.]

Dale: Oh, Jesus.

[Dale rolls him over, and cringes a little--he looks even worse from the front. Bruises and cuts all over his face, and blood coming out of his mouth as well. Worse still, he has blood all over his suit, and that stuff is a bitch to clean.]

Dale: T.J., go get the medics.

Ratigan: Holy crap, dude. Is he okay?

Dale: NO HE'S NOT FUCKING OKAY!! GO GET THE GODDAMN MEDICS!

[T.J. Ratigan dashes out the door, leaving Deacon Dale behind to do...whatever could possibly be done here.]

Connors: Oh...

[Connors is beginning to stir, having finally regained consciousness. Deacon now turns his full attention to reviving him all the way.]

Dale: Boss? Wyatt? Can you hear me?

[Connors responds with a wet, hacking cough; then, he spits out some blood. Most of it ends up on Deacon's shirt.]

Dale: It's me, Wyatt! It's Deacon. Can you hear me?

Connors: It's about time you...*couch*... got back...

Dale: Who did this? Did you see anything?

[Deacon Dale tries to wipe the blood off of Connors' face, as anger rises inside of him. Somebody did this. Somebody came in here and tried to seriously injure his boss. Cost him a teammate.]

Connors: Ow...

[And most importantly, this person tried to take away Deacon's first--and maybe last--shot at the big time.]

Dale: They'll pay for this. When I find out who did this, they are going to pay. I will grind that son of a bitch down to nothing and piss on whatever's left.

[If movement weren't so excruciating, Wyatt Connors might actually smile at that.]

[Cut.]

Keiler: “Well up next we have a four way ‘Rite of Passage’ elimination match!”

Doyley: “Rite of Passage because all of these guys are up and comers, right land lubber?”

Keiler: “You’d be correct carrot top. These guys are some of the best that their federations have to offer; Cobra from HRW, Corey Ashton from UTA, Rob DiPietro from ACW and Soultaker from WCWA.”

Doyley: “Ooo I like the sound of ‘Soultaker’. He sounds yummy.”

Keiler: “Ugh... Don’t you have some ring announcing to do?”

Doyley: “Oh, right. Be right back, boss man.”

[Kelly Doyley quickly makes her way to the ring, waving to all of the hootin’ and hollerin’ fans while she waits for the first superstar to make his way out.]

"NOT, ONE, MORE, WORD, TONIGHT!"

[The loud sounds of to Against Me's! "Sink, Florida, Sink" hit the sound system like the sound of thunder. The crowd is silent for the most part, apart from the usual drunken screams and ignorant cheers. Through the curtains steps Corey Ashton. A smug look on his face and no attention shown to the fans, completely ignoring them as if they weren't even there. His only attire is a pair of black traditional wrestling boots, white wrist tape and a pair of black Muay Thai style shorts. ]

Doyley: “Making his way to the ring, weighing in a sleek two hundred sixteen pound and standing at five eleven! He hails from Seattle, Washington! The United Toughness Alliance's Heavyweight Champion! Corey Ashton!

[Corey slides into the ring from the bottom rope and stands up quickly. Going to a corner immediately and waiting for the match to kick off with a determined look on his face as the fans boo loudly.]

Keiler: “Ashton not receiving love from the Irish crowd here tonight, nevertheless this superstar is one to keep your eyes on in the coming months as he vies for that World Heavyweight strap.”

[“Glad to be Alive” by Cowboy Mouth starts to blast throughout the arena as Rob DiPietro makes his way to the ring wearing a “Living Legend” Rage t-shirt and blue wrestling pants that have his name on them. Rob slides into the ring, eyeing Ashton carefully as he backs into a corner.]

Doyley: “Standing at five feet, six inches and weighting in at two hundred and five pounds, he represents the ACW… ROB.. DIPIETRROO!”

[The fans for the most part are silent in response to Rob’s name.]

Keiler: “Indifference for Rob DiPietro of the ACW.”

[Rob’s music fades and is quickly replaced when “Whenever I May Roam” by Metallica starts. The intro to the song is played with no movement from backstage. Once the song starts to kick in, Cobra busts through the curtain and looks up at all the fans with his arms stretched out at his side. He takes in the movement and starts to head to the ring with the music continuing in the background. He stops to hit the hands of his fans as he makes his way to the ring. Once at ringside, he dives into the ring and “slithers” his way across the ring to the center. He then pops up from the ground and spins looking at all his fans.

Doyley: “Standing at six feet, three inches and weighting in at two hundred and sixty-three pounds, tonight he represents the HRW.. His name is… COOBBRRAAA!”

[The fans give a nice POPPITY for Cobra-ity.]

Keiler: “Cobra, a fan favorite here tonight might want to watch out for the next one out.”

[A siren blasts as the lights die down and a red flashing light is all that can be seen. No music, just silence as Soultaker makes his way from the back to the entrance ramp.]

[The sound of crows suddenly blasts over the system as the siren seems to scream louder. The massive man makes a slow walk down the aisle to the ring. No emotion being shown. The fans are even quiet at the presence of this monster of a man.

# Boom

[A cannon now fires as he reaches the ring. The siren becomes silent as he opens his hand and a single flame begins to burn in his hand. He holds his hand high as the fans look on in awe of this sight. He blows the flame and it leaps out toward the ring as the ref jumps back. Soultaker smiles as he steps up on the apron and climbs in the ring.]

# Boom

[He makes his way to his corner and another flames is in his hand. He blows towards the fans as they fall back from the fire. He grins and turns and awaits the start of the match.]

Doyley: “Ladies and gentlemen representing the WCWA, he stands at six feet, nine inches and weights in at a colossal three hundred pounds…

[Doyley winks to the big man].. He is SOUULLTAKER!”

[The fans boo loudly; meanwhile Doyley makes a quick exit as all four men stand in an individual corner, staring each other down.]

Keiler: “Alright let’s get this battle underway, shall we?”

[Doyley flops into the seat next to Keiler and can be heard with out a microphone for a split second.]

Doyley: “Yeah, tear them apart for mama Soultaker!”

[Keiler sighs and the bell sounds.]

[DING, DING!!]

[All four men are hesitant to leave their corners as they glance from one another, waiting for the first person to make a move. While they wait some less than pleasant conversations are transpiring between all of them before Soultaker suddenly sprints out of the gate in the direction of Cobra who stands directly across from him.]

Keiler: “And here we go!”

Doyley: “Deesstttrroooy!”

[The ring shakes with every step as Soultaker hurtles towards Cobra. Soultaker yells out loudly as he closes in and extends his arm!]

Doyley: “Clothesline!”

[SWWOOSSH!]

[THUDD!]

[POP!]

Keiler: “No! Cobra ducked out of the way at the last second and Soultaker met nothing but turnbuckle!”

[Soultaker stumbles out of the corner, clutching his chest as Cobra back peddles, watching Rob DiPietro try to sneak up on the behemoth. Rob drops to the mat as he reaches Soultaker and tries to uses his off balance stumbling to his advantage with a roll up!]

Doyley: “What is that little guy think he’s doing to Soultaker?!”

Keiler: “It looks like he’s trying to roll him up.. But it appears like he’s having a bit of difficulty.”

[Indeed, as Rob tries with all his strength to bring Soultaker to the mat, Soultaker isn’t even budging. Rob tries one more attempt before Soultaker reaches down and pulls Rob by his hair from the mat and puts him into a standing position!]

Doyley: “Yeah, man-handle him! Rip him in half!”

Keiler: “Things aren’t looking too bright for Rob DiPietro!”

[Soultaker quickly boots, well as quick as he can for a 300 pounder, the smaller Rob in the gut and forces his head in between his legs. Soultaker then lifts the small man up…]

Doyley: “POWER BOMB!!”

[THHUUUD!]

Keiler: “What power from the big man!”

[Soultaker damn near folds Rob DiPietro in half before he drops down for the cover.]

[The ref slides into position and starts slamming the mat.]

Doyley: “We gotta a cover land lubber!”

Keiler: “We could have our first elimination VERY early on in this match.”

[ONE!]

[TWO!]

[THREE!]

[Ding!]

Doyley: “Woohoo!”

Keiler: “Rob DiPietro becomes the first elimination and now this four way is down to a triple threat!”

Doyley: “You know.. With all this excitement we weren’t even paying attention to Ashton and Cobra.”

[Let’s catch up to speed on Cobra and Ashton, shall we? As Cobra back peddled away from the big man, Soultaker, Corey Ashton took the opportunity to chop block Cobra’s right leg and take him down to the ground. Corey then quickly began to stomp the leg of Cobra before Cobra rolled out of the way and staggered to his feet. Ashton was on him like white on rice though and quickly Irish whipped him to the ropes as the referee slid down to count the pin on Rob. Cobra came rushing back to meet Corey’s attempt at a belly to belly suplex, but it was only an attempt because Cobra ducked underneath the arms of Corey as he shot in. Cobra then quickly spun around behind Corey as the bell rung announcing Rob as the first elimination of the night. Corey spun around looking for Cobra but found only mat as Cobra drilled him with a DDT! That brings us up to speed. Soultaker is standing in the same corner he slammed into, watching Cobra and Corey intently as the ref helps roll Rob out of the ring.]

Keiler: “Soultaker scoping out the scene before him as Cobra pulls Corey to his feet.”

Doyley: “Don’t just stand there Soultaker, go get Cobra!”

[As Cobra brings Corey to his feet, he slams a fist into his face to stagger him. He repeats this motion before backing him into the ropes. Cobra then whips Corey across the ring, stepping into the center. As Corey hit’s the ropes, Cobra takes a second to figure out where Soultaker is and that second is all Ashton needs to take Cobra down with a clothesline!]

Keiler: “Cobra takes his eyes off Ashton for a second and that’s all he needs to capitalize. Soultaker seems pleased, doesn’t he?”

Doyley: “Who cares? I’m not pleased with this lack of blood shed.”

[Corey, having knocked Cobra to his back, steps up to his head and lifts his boot up before slamming it back down into Cobra’s face! Cobra rolls around holding his face in agony as Corey bends down to pick him up, but before he can grab ‘em, Corey hears a loud shot from across the ring. He turns around quickly, only to be met with a foot in his face!]

Keiler: “Big Boot from Soultaker to knock Corey Ashton to the mat!”

Doyley: “It’s about damn time, Soultaker!”

[Cobra, who is trying to stand at his own will, is pulled up to his feet by Soultaker and met with a vicious right hand that practically knocks him back down to the ground. Cobra struggles, but stays on his feet as Soultaker takes a step forward and hits him again, dropping Cobra to his knee before he staggers up to his feet and pushed into the ropes. Soultaker, gripping Cobra’s arm tightly, whips him across the ring with all the power that a 300 pounder can muster - but right as he whips him across the ring, Ashton is staggering to his feet DIRECTLY in the path of the on coming Cobra!]

Keiler: “Collision!”

[Corey, with only a split second to respond, instinctively wraps his arms around Cobra as he comes into range. Ashton then uses Cobra’s momentum against him and pops his hips, sending Cobra not only flying over Ashton but also…]

*FLASH*FLASH*FLASH*

Doyley: “I didn’t know Cobra’s could flllllyyy!”

[TTHUUDD!]

[POPPPITY!!]

Keiler: “Did you see that Doyley?!”

Doyley: “Of course I did, land lubber!”

Keiler: “Ashton, with less than a second to respond, caught the charging Cobra in his path threw him over the top rope and to the floors below with an overhead belly to belly suplex!”

Doyley: “I must say that was neato.”

[Ashton, peering over the top rope to make sure Cobra is out of it, turns around and almost walks straight into the wall of body that is Soultaker. Corey staggers back, peering up to the angry giant. Even Ashton can’t respond quick enough this time, as Soultaker shoots out his arm and wraps his hand around Corey’s neck!]

Keiler: “Something tells me that Irish whip wasn’t meant to be team work between Ashton and Soultaker!”

Doyley: “Yes, strangle him right here and now Soultaker! Make his eyes bug out!”

[Corey is trying to avoid the on coming choke slam by staggering back and trying to drop to his knees, but Soultaker is just to strong and won’t let it happen. Soultaker places his hand on Ashton's back and lifts him up into the air by his neck!]

Keiler: “Choke slam!”

[But as Soultaker lifts Ashton into the air, Ashton pulls his knee up and SLAMS it into the chin of Soultaker!]

[POP!!]

Doyley: “NO!!”

[Soultaker staggers back, and Ashton lands to his feet.]

Keiler: “Again Ashton escapes harms way by slamming a knee into the face of Soultaker, forcing him to evacuate that choke slam!”

[As soon as Ashton is on his feet he charges the ropes behind him and lets them catapult him to Soultaker who is holding his chin with a grimace. Ashton shoots forwards and extends his leg out, lifting it as high as he can and catching Soultaker off guard with a…]

[SSHHAAAMAACCKK!]

Doyley: “Holy Hell!”

[POPP!]

Keiler: “SUPERKICK FROM ASHTON AND THE BIG MAN GOES DOWN!”

Doyley: “We got a cover!”

[Indeed we do as Ashton quickly flops down on the big man, hooking his tree trunk of a leg to the best of his ability while grabbing on to the ropes for leverage. Meanwhile, Cobra can be seen staggering back to his feet, using the apron for support.]

Keiler: “He’s holding on to the ropes!”

[ONE!]

Doyley: “A wins a win I suppose!”

[TWOO!]

[Cobra slides into the ring, standing up to his feet.]

Keiler: “Here comes Cobra, and he looks none too pleased with Ashton!”

[THHREEE!!]

[DING!]

Doyley: “Yet he doesn’t even try to save Soultaker from Elimination?”

Keiler: “Why would he want to? He and Soultaker aren’t exactly on great terms, besides he wants Ashton all to himself.”

[Ashton staggers up to his feet, holding his arm up high in celebration, but only for a second as Cobra charges forwards and lowers his shoulder, nearly SPEARING Ashton right outta his boots!]

Doyley: “GOOORR.. UH I MEAN SPPEEAAR! SPEAR!! SPEEAAAAR!”

Keiler: “He nearly speared him out of the ring and now Cobra is letting the fists rain down on Ashton’s face!”

[Cobra is unleashing the fists on Ashton much to the delight of the crowd before Cobra leaps to his feet and pulls Ashton up by his hair. From here, he unleashes a flurry of knife edge chops!]

[SMACK!]

[WOOOO!]

[SMACK!]

[WOOOO!]

[SMACK!]

[WOOOO!]

[SMACK!]

[WOOOO!]

Doyley: “His chest has almost been cut open by those damned chops!”

[Cobra, now having backed Ashton into the nearest turnbuckle, stops his chops and grabs on to the arm of Ashton before trying to whip him out of the corner. However, his plans are thwarted as Ashton spins around and holds onto Cobras arm, whipping him across the ring instead! Cobra hit’s the opposite turnbuckle hard, and staggers out directly into a judo suplex from Corey Ashton!]

Keiler: “Ashton avoids yet another attack, this guy has great ring presence and certainly knows what he’s doing out there.”

Doyley: “Get off his jock, Keiler.”

[Corey wastes little time in laying into Cobra with boots to the ribs. He only gets a couple in though as Cobra desperately tries rolling away from the onslaught and up to his feet. He eventually makes it to his feet, but Ashton is right there on top of him, taking him BACK DOWN to the mat with a double leg take down!]

Keiler: “Ashton doesn’t even want to give Cobra the chance to stand to his feet!”

[Ashton quickly floats over and begins to apply a leg lock, but fearing the worst Cobra begins shooting his free foot out into the face of Ashton as quick as possible. Ashton drops the hold and staggers back a bit before shaking it off and reaching down to try and grapple his leg again. Cobra again shoots out his free foot and smacks Ashton across the face, only this time he is able to make it to his hands and knees before Ashton can make a come back.]

Doyley: “Cobra’s up!”

[Seeing this, Ashton quickly charges forwards and shoots his arm out for a quick clothesline!]

Keiler: “Clothesline!”

Doyley: “Nope, Cobra ducked!”

[Ashton, missing his clothesline, swings around to see what became of Cobra but only finds to boots in his face as Cobra leaps up and shoots his feet out, nailing Ashton with a standing drop kick!]

Keiler: “Cobra with a beautiful standing dropkick to take Ashton to the mat.”

[Cobra, instantly shoots back to his feet and charges the nearest ropes. Upon reaching them he leaps onto the middle rope and springs off them, flipping in the air…]

Doyley: “Moonsault!”

[THUDD!]

Keiler: “No! Ashton gets his knees up!”

[OOHH!]

[Cobra flops over, holding his mid-section as Ashton staggers to his feet. Ashton, panting heavily, slowly pulls Cobra up to his feet only to take him straight back down to the mat with a judo takedown, flowing over nicely and locking on the dreaded…]

Doyley: “ASHTON ANKLE LOCK!”

[POPPITY!]

[Cobra begins to squirm rapidly!]

Keiler: “This has to be it, Ashton has that grapevine ankle lock synched on tightly!”

Doyley: “Break the damn thing off Ashton!”

[Cobra quickly shits his weight and rolls over, desperately trying to lose Ashton in the roll, but Ashton keeps it locked on tight!]

Keiler: “I don’t even know how he mustered to roll over, but it was a great attempt.”

Doyley: “Cobra may be smarter than he looks. That roll just got him pretty damn close to those ropes.”

Keiler: “Ashton’s letting go of the hold?!”

Doyley: “Why?!”

[Indeed, Ashton lets go of the hold as Cobra is reaching desperately for the ropes, and pulls on the ankle to drag Cobra back to the center of the ring!]

Keiler: “Bloody genius, he just let go to pull Cobra from the ropes, now he’ll get it locked back on!”

[But as Ashton goes to lock it back on, Cobra desperately flips over and begins shooting his feet out wildly to keep Ashton at a distance. He can’t even grab one of Cobra’s legs!”

Doyley: “Cobra doesn’t want to feel that lock again!”

[With Ashton at a good distance, Cobra scrambles to his feet, but as he does Ashton is right back on him and leaps at his right leg to try and take him down with a chop block! But Cobra narrowly dives out of the way and Ashton hits nothing but mat!]

Keiler: “Cobra NARROWLY avoids being taken back down to the mat!”

[With Ashton making his way to his feet, Cobra shoots off across the ring and comes flying back just in time for Ashton to stand up. Corey stands and Cobra leaps up onto his shoulders, snapping back and flipping Ashton over and onto the mat with a hurricanrana!]

Doyley: “Despite the pain in his ankle Cobra still manages to get enough height for that hurricanrana, land lubber.”

Keiler: “Indeed, you can see the determination in both their faces. They want to win, no matter the pain.”

[Ashton, struggles to his feet, using the ropes to help him up. But as he stands up right, Cobra is right there to take him UP and OVER for a German suplex!]

Doyley: “Oooh!"

Keiler: “Now Cobra is the one not giving Ashton a second to be on his feet, what a beautiful German suplex!”

Doyley: “And now we got a cover!”

[The ref slides into position as Cobra hooks the leg.]

[ONE!]

Keiler: “This could be it.”

[TWO!]

Doyley: “NO! Corey gets his shoulder up!”

[Cobra, frustrated, slams a fist in the face of Ashton and hooks his leg again.]

Keiler: “Another cover!”

[ONE!]

Doyley: “He wants this to be over with!”

[TWO!]

Keiler: “NO! Ashton gets his shoulder up again and Cobra looks none too pleased.”

[Cobra is quick to his feet, slamming boot after boot into Ashton before pulling him up to his feet. Cobra tries to land another punch, but Ashton steps in and takes Cobra down to the ground with a hip toss!]

Doyley: “Whoa where’d that hip toss come from?!”

[Ashton drops another face stomp onto Cobra before pulling back to his feet and shooting out a fist of his own. Cobra is able to get a hand up and block it to the surprise of Ashton! Corey sends out another fist, but AGAIN Cobra blocks it! Now it’s Cobra’s turn as he shoots out a fist, but Ashton blocks it!]

Keiler: “Both men trading blows but neither can land one!”

[Finally the two men lock up in the center of the ring, with Ashton getting the advantage and locking on a side headlock. Ashton wrenches away at the headlock while Cobra’s face turns red, all the while Cobra is desperately hitting shot after shot into Ashton’s kidneys to try and loosen the hold. Eventually Corey is forced to let go as Cobra hits another kidney shot and pushes him off. Ashton spins around only to meet a boot to the gut and fishermen DDT!]

[THUUUD!]

Doyley: “Wow!”

Keiler: “What a fight, neither man truly getting an advantage long enough to pull away with the three count.”

[Both men lay on the mat, sucking in wind.]

Doyley: “Come on ya lazy bums, get up! Grab a chair!”

Keiler: “If that do that they’ll get disqualified Kelly.”

Doyley: “Who cares, at least will see some blood spilled.”

[The ref begins counting both men out.]

[ONE!]

Keiler: “Both men are about to be counted out and this match will be ruled a no contest if neither can continue.”

[TWO!]

Doyley: “That is so lame, get up!”

[THREE!]

Keiler: “Can you blame them? They’ve been fighting back and forth, back and forth for near twenty minutes now.”

[Both men begin to stir, raising their shoulders and rolling to the ropes.]

[FOUR!]

Doyley: “So? Like that’s any excuse to just lay there on their backs.”

Keiler: “You do it all the time.”

[Both men pull themselves up to their feet, much to the delight of the crowd.]

[POP!]

Doyley: “Finally.”

[Both men stagger to the center, staring each other in the eyes the whole way through before they lock horns once more!]

Keiler: “And here we go, both men fighting to win at their first WWA pay-per-view.”

[Cobra gets the upper hand for a split second, kneeing Ashton in the gut, but Ashton is able to hook his arm around it and lift Cobra up, driving him back and slamming him into the ground for a single leg take down. From here Ashton lifts him up one more time and drops him with a Russian leg sweep before heading up to the nearest turnbuckle.]

Doyley: “Corey is going to fly!”

Keiler: “Looks to be true, Cobra seems exhausted and out of it. If Ashton nails this, I think it’s over folks.”

[Corey perches himself on the top rope for a second, before standing up and pointing down to Cobra. The fans are on their feet cheering loudly, waiting for the leap. Corey crouches down slightly before leaping off into the air, the cameras flashing brightly through out the arena..]

*FLASH*FLASH*FLASH*FLASH*
*FLASH*FLASH*FLASH*FLASH*
*FLASH*FLASH*FLASH*FLASH*

Doyley: “Incoming!!”

Keiler: “Frog splash!!!”

[THHHUUUDDD!]

[OOOHH!]

Doyley: “NO!!”

Keiler: “Cobra! Cobra rolled away at the VERY last second! Ashton meets nothing but mat!”

[The fans are cheering loudly as Cobra lays there, trying to muster the strength to get to his feet. Ashton is grimacing in pain as he fights his way to his feet with the aide of the ropes.]

Doyley: “I got to admit, land lubber, this is one hell of a match.”

[With Corey on his knees, Cobra is on his as well.]

Keiler: “Indeed carrot top.”

[Ashton is on his feet, somehow managing to stagger over to Cobra who isn’t quite up yet.]

Doyley: “How is Ashton up before Cobra?”

Keiler: “Maybe Ashton just has more in the gas tank.”

[As Ashton reaches Cobra, he leans down to pull him up.. But much to his surprise, he receives a VICIOUS upper cut that even the Dean of Mean, Keith Jardine would shiver over!]

[SHHAMMACCK!]

Doyley: “WHOA!”

[OOH!!]

Keiler: “Cobra was playing opossum!”

[Corey staggers back, not even in control of his own body any more. But before he can fall flat on his face, Cobra boots him in his mid-section and shoves his head between his legs…]

Doyley: “Oh no!”

[Oooohh…]

[TTHHHUUUDDDD!!!]

[POPPITY POPPITY!!!1!!]

[SSSNNNAAAAAKKKEEE BIIIITTTEEE!!!]

Keiler: “Cobra just nailed his finisher, the Snake Bite or a running tiger bomb! Corey Ashton is hurt in a bad way folks!”

Doyley: “We have a pin!”

[The ref slides into place..]

[ONE!!]

[The fans are counting along.]

[TWOO!]

Keiler: “This HAS to be it!”

[TTTTHHHAAAA….]

Doyley: “It’s over Keiler!”

[…..RREEE!!!]

[HUUUGGEEE PPPPOOOPPPPPP!!]

[DING, DING!!!]

Keiler: “Cobra did it!”

Doyley: “I guess I better go call it!”

[Cobra rolls off the body of Ashton, both men panting heavily.]

Keiler: “A four way interfederation elimination match and boy what a great match it was. Ashton and Cobra fought back and forth through-out the entire match, but in the end Cobra pulled out the win and eliminated Corey Ashton.”

Doyley: “Ladies and Gentlemen here is your winner of the Rites of Passage elimination match, representing the HRW… COOOBRRRAA!!”

[The newest tag team in WCWA, the Sex Symbols: JD Hart and Sean Peters are backstage in the Ravenhill Stadium looking in locker room after locker room. The Wrestling Republic interviewer Raj Patel catches up with them.]

Raj: “JD, Sean what are you two doing back here?”

[A smirk comes across the face of JD and a smile across the face of Sean.]

Sean: “I’m looking for some pussy! I’m looking for those two hot OCW women that fought one hell of a match out there tonight! I think I can take that Alexis chick home with me and tame her!”

[Raj rolls his eyes and looks away as his nostrils and eyes burn from the aroma of hard liquor wafts him from Sean’s mouth.]

Raj: “Oh well, I can see that you’re not in the mood for an interview, so I’ll let you two be on your way.”

[JD sticks out his arm and blocks the path of Raj.]

JD: “You wait just a minute now; you stopped us out here, so now you have to talk to us! I’ve not been drinking, so don’t worry about him. You want to know what I’m doing here, well I’ll tell you. I’m here to show my support for a friend of ours from back in the day at White Mountain Wrestling, only I can’t find him.”

[Raj looks surprised.]

Raj: “A friend from White Mountain Wrestling, who may that, be?”

Sean: “Well, it’s the uncrowned White Mountain Summit heavyweight champion, Jimmy Riley!”

[JD pushes Sean to the side as he’s leaning on Raj’s shoulder.]

JD: “What my slightly inebriated partner and friends trying to say is we wanted to wish Jimmy Riley and Thomas Bane both to have good matches.”

Sean: “I’m no inbred!”

[JD looks into Sean’s half opened eyes.]

JD: “Yeah, I know! In simple terms I said you were drunk!”

[Sean grins and nods his head forward.]

Sean: “That I am, yes sir that I am.”

Raj: “Have you all found either Bane or Riley?”

[Slurring his words, Sean speaks.]

Sean: “No, buuuhhhhttt we did find, uhhhh, somebody.”

[JD shakes his head at the state which Sean Peters has brought upon himself.]

JD: “Raj, if you see either of them let them know we were here to wish them great matches, I’m going to take ‘El Drunko’ back to his seat.”

[Sean hiccups and looks up at JD.]

Sean: “Who’s Eli Drankoh?”

JD: See what I mean.”

[Raj nods his head.]

JD: “I have one last thing to say to the so called talent in WCWA before I go. 80 Proof, Big time Jerks and whoever else thinks the tag team titles should be around their waists, we came here for two things, one is for the tag team titles and two is to screw up Vince Webb Sr.’s life’s work. Your son took our titles in OCW, and our contracts went with them. So just wait, were going to ruin WCWA for everyone there and that’s no threat, it’s a damned promise!”

[JD grabs Sean and starts walking back to their seats.]

Raj: “Wow, those were some strong words from the former three time regional tag team champions, back to you James and Kelly.”

Harjinder: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome, from Moberly, Missouri, the first family of the World Wrestling Alliance....

[The lights go out in the arena, and the electronic hyperventilation that is the opening to Red's "Breathe Into Me" begins to filter through the sound system. As the riffs come to an end, a pause ensues, longer than the pause originally recorded on the album.]

Keiler: I see shadows and movement at the top of the entry.

Doyley: Looks to be three, possibly four people.

[As the guitar crashes down, resuming the song, the lights fade up suddenly, revealing Ryan Corey standing in the center of the entryway. Next to him on his left is his wife, Kelly, and on his right is his son, standing nearly as tall as his father, one CJ Corey. In the Nightbringer's right arm is his new daughter, six-month old Acacia. The crowd explodes, welcoming the Corey’s to the arena.]

Keiler: And listen to the ovation for the boss!

Doyley: Boss? Since when? I haven't had a paycheck signed by him in months.

Keiler: Trust me, he's still here. You can't expect the man to have signatures on everything, can you?

[As the song continues, Ryan takes Kelly's hand, and the foursome begins the long walk to the ring, CJ slapping five with the fans along the way. Ryan does his best to join in, juggling the baby between arms as he greets the Belfast fans as best he possibly can.]

Doyley: I will say this; the man has always known how to make an entrance.

[The family reaches the ring, and Ryan hands Acacia to Kelly, as he and CJ quickly jump into the ring. Ryan reaches between the ropes, taking the baby girl and handing her to her big brother, then holding the ropes open for his wife as she steps into the ring. A ringside attendant then hands Ryan a microphone, and the three oldest Corey’s raise their hands to the crowd, CJ mounting the second turnbuckle and hamming it up for the fans.]

NRC: Belfast, Belfast, Belfast. It has been a long time since I've been here, and still as beautiful as it was nearly a decade ago!

[The crowd pops....I mean, cheap pop opportunity and all...and begins to chant the now-familiar letters...]

NRC! NRC! NRC!

[Ryan soaks the cheers in for a moment, his whole family smiling and egging them on.]

NRC: Firstly, let me thank you all for attending this event. You have been more than hospitable in our time here, and the entire WWA staff, and our wrestlers, thank you for you kindness.

[A polite smattering of applause, and a few cheers.]

NRC: Secondly, I would like to announce that, until recently, there were approximately five percent of the total shares of the WWA stock floating out there amongst a number of individuals. As of Thursday, that problem was corrected. I have also purchased the remainder of the available stock, and now own 52.5 percent of the WWA stock, thus making myself the majority owner of this alliance.

[More cheering.]

NRC: Finally, it has been-

[BOOM]

[The sudden sound of a single drum beat interrupts the Nightbringer.]

[BOOM]

[The beats quicken.]

[BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM]

[The PA system explodes as “Mr. Self-Destruct” by Nine Inch Nails pumps throughout the arena. The fans start to jeer loudly. They know who’s coming.]

Keiler: Oh Christ, not him…

Doyley: Victor Mandrake!!! Now THERE’S someone who can be my boss!

[Victor emerges from the behind the curtains with a mischievous smirk on his face. His long, pitch black hair flows freely behind him as his muscular 7’4” 375 lbs frame walks down the aisle. Victor is wearing a black suit with a black shirt and a red tie. His icy blue eyes are fixated on his old enemy, and Ryan returns the gaze in full. His smirk turns into a full-blown smile as he enters into the ring. Ryan instinctually steps in front of his family, putting himself between them and Victor. Mandrake grabs a microphone.]

Mandrake: Well, isn’t this precious. A family gathering. But what’s a gathering without Uncle Victor?

[He paused, sizing up CJ.]

Mandrake: Wow. And look at you, CJ. My, have you grown. Aspiring to be just like your father one day, I suppose?

[CJ nodded, and stepped in next to his father, fists drawn, ready to fight the monster even at twelve years of age. Ryan gently ushered his son back behind him, never taking his eyes off Mandrake. Victor chuckled.]

Mandrake: And here I thought you would aim for higher goals.

[The Nightbringer raised an eyebrow to Victor, not amused. The crowd booed him louder.]

Mandrake: And Kelly, still looking good, even after two children. How is young Acacia-

[Ryan cut him off, seething.]

NRC: What do you want, Mandrake?

[Victor looked at him, that smile creeping back over his lips.]

Mandrake: To the point, Nightbringer? I was just looking to catch up. It’s been so long since you last visited, I had worried that you had forgotten about me.

NRC: It's rather difficult to forget about your particular brand of evil, Victor.

Mandrake: My thoughts exactly. Especially after our last little rendezvous, you know, the one that ended rather messily at my castle? And how is that scar, Nightbringer?

[Corey unbuttons his shirt, showing Victor the circular scar of which he speaks, still gruesome.]

NRC: It’s healed. That’s what counts.

[Victor’s expression darkened.]

Mandrake: Yours may be healed, Ryan, but my scars are not. Your God may have been able to save you from a bullet, but He will not save you from me. I told you this was coming, Nightbringer, I told you that one day, I would even up the score. I told you that one day, I would be coming for you and that I would take something precious from you.

NRC: And that would be?

[Victor gestured around him with his arms.]

Mandrake: All of this.

[Corey raised an eyebrow.]

NRC: What do you mean?

[Victor grinned.]

Mandrake: Well Ryan, I think we can both agree that I’ve done pretty much all that I can do here in the World Wrestling Alliance, the place that was built upon the very war that raged so fiercely between us in the early years, a war that has almost been forgotten by the many in attendance here. However, I’m looking to re-kindle those lost flames of ire, to once again spill the blood and break the bones that stand as this alliance’s foundation.

[Pause.]

Mandrake: And the spoils of war?

[Another pause.]

Mandrake: All of your shares of the WWA.

[The crowd erupts in a riot of cheers and boos.]

Keiler: Looks like Mandrake might sign your checks after all!

Doyley: Well that all depends on if Corey accepts or not.

[Ryan looks at Victor in defiance.]

NRC: And if I don’t agree?

[Victor points at Kelly.]

Mandrake: Then she gets to die.

[The crowd erupts in boos as Corey turns red, stepping in front of Mandrake nose to nose, or as close to nose to nose as a six-foot man can be next to someone over seven feet tall.]

Doyley: I love it when he talks like that.

Keiler: Doesn’t he realize he could get arrested now?

Doyley: I don’t think he cares at this point.

[NRC glares at Victor, almost trying to burn a hole through his black heart. Kelly steps forward, whispering something in her husband's ear. Corey, in a questionable-at-best move, turns his back on Mandrake, speaking privately with his wife. He nods, and turns back to Victor.]

NRC: Fine, Victor. I accept.

[Crowd pop.]

NRC: But, there's a catch....

[Silence from the crowd, almost as instantaneous as the previous pop.]

NRC: If you want to renew this battle, this ire, this spilling of each other's blood for the entertainment of these fans, then we do it on my terms. Not here, tonight...

Doyley: The hell? I don't get to see Mandrake kill someone tonight? I want out of my contract!

NRC: No, Victor, there's only one event large enough to hold the two of us. One venue that this alliance has that will only suffice. You against me...

[Pause.]

NRC: ...control of this alliance on the line...

[Pause.]

NRC: ....Summer Games Eight.

[HUGE crowd pop.]

Keiler: Holy shite! We’ve just gotten a match signed for Summer Games, and it’s not even for another few months!

[Victor grinned.]

Mandrake: Very well, Nightbringer. If you want to lose your legacy and dignity in front of the entire world, so be it. Until then, be sure to take care of your family. I’d hate to see something happen to them before I come and pay a visit.

Keiler: Now why does that bloody wanker always have to bring the family into it?

Doyley: Don’t question it James, just be content to watch a god in perfect form.

Keiler: Oh get off of it.

[Corey stands there and seethes, being very careful not to do anything that would put his family in jeopardy. Victor walks off smiling into the back to a cacophony of boos as we cut out.]

[Both Jimmy Riley and Lonopele came out to their respective jeers and cheers at the beckoning of Harjinder Keiler. The match started off as just about any match would between two wrestlers that are almost exactly the same size; pretty even. Although, those tides turned quickly to Riley’s favor with a low blow, amongst many other less-than-honorable actions.]

[Despite the blatant cheating committed by Riley, Lonopele was able to keep up due to his seemingly high pain tolerance. Lonopele resembled the Hulk in some ways, as most of his arsenal included only punches, smashes, and body slams. The thing that wore on Riley, however, was that he kept on coming. What kept Riley alive, however, was the fact that he knew that anything that he could possibly desire in the WWA has just inches within his grasp. At one point, after an accidental clash, Lonopele knocked the referee out, which allowed Riley the opportunity to throw a chair into the mix.]

[Lonopele nearly fell to victim to Riley’s continued unscrupulous wiles more then once, and almost got nailed by the Ego Check, which would’ve meant lights out for Lonopele. Fortunately for him, he managed to slip out of the move before he grabbed Riley by the hair and drove his forearm into Riley’s face via the Kontu Calling. Blood started pouring out of Riley’s nose as he hit the mat, at which point Lonopele covered him for the three-count.]

Winner of the Summit Tournament: Lonopele

[Cut backstage. Danny Vicious is in his dressing room, removing his boots from his match with Cole Christenson. Without any warning whatsoever, the door slams against the inside wall. Dean Hobkirk charges into the room like a man possessed, leaving his feet just inside the door to leap towards Vicious. Not expecting the onslaught, Danny takes Dean's full body weight in the chest and slams back into a locker. Hobkirk is quick to work, raining down punches on Vicious before he even knows what's happening. Finally, Vicious regroups and pushes Hobkirk off him. Dean remains on his feet, however, and as Vicious rises, Hobkirk clocks him across the jaw. Danny's head snaps back, and he immediately transforms from surprised to extremely angry. Hobkirk, who also hesitated after the strike, doesn't even see the shot coming. Vicious swings around and connects with a haymaker upside Dean's head. Hobkirk stumbles back, into the rushing security. Almost instantly, the room is flooded with black security shirts.]

Guard 1: OK GUYS BREAK IT UP!

[Three guards rush over to Vicious and attempt to get in front of him. That doesn't work. Danny simply sidesteps the first one and body checks him to the floor. The second and third guards are in at the same time, wrapping Danny's arms. Vicious, using his right side first, swings his arm back and uses his body weight to send the guard into the lockers behind Vicious. He then simply punches the other guard off his left arm. Meanwhile, three guards also surround Hobkirk, who just pushes his way through them at leaps at Vicious again. The two wrestlers begin trading punches, and security regroups. This time, there are six on each man, and the wrestlers struggle but lose to the numbers.]

Hobkirk: SNUFF ME AGAIN, JACKASS!!

Vicious: IF I EVER SEE YOU NEAR A RING I'M IN AGAIN, I'LL FUCKING KILL YOU! YOU LITTLE PIECE OF SHIT!

Hobkirk: FUCK YOU!

[Dean tries to force his way through the sea of humanity, but can't. Security begins to pull Dean towards the door.]

Guard 2: Ok Dean, let's just go. Take it easy.

Vicious: AWWW! YEAH, GO DEAN! GET THE FUCK OUT OF HERE BEFORE I OBLITERATE YOUR DUMB ASS!

[Dean just smiles up at Vicious as security hauls him through the door. Danny furrows his brow.]

Hobkirk: I'll be seeing you, Vicious. You better believe I'll be fucking seeing you.

[Danny smiles back. The security that had been holding him back let up slightly, and Danny can now move behind the wall of guards, yet he'll get no closer to Hobkirk.]

Vicious: Anytime, cupcake. Any fucking time you think you're big enough!

[Dean is finally dragged from the room, and the security guards watching Vicious begin to let up some more, moving towards the door. Danny just stares out into the hallway where Hobkirk was dragged, and ponders this new situation and new enemy.]

[Cut.]

[Location: the trainer's room and makeshift medical wing of the arena. Where many a crisis is dealt with...but tonight, a different crisis emerges.]

[Earlier in the show, "Wise Guy" Wyatt Connors was brutally attacked by a mysterious assailant. He had sent his teammates and flunkies, Deacon Dale and T.J. Ratigan, on a minor errand, which gave the attacker a prime opportunity. He [or maybe even she] snuck into the dressing room, turned the lights off, and assaulted Connors with a large, blunt object.]

[When Dale and Ratigan returned, they immediately called the on-hand medical staff, who brought him here. Since then, they've been bandaging him up, trying to get him patched up enough so that he can go out and challenge for the tag team titles.]

[Right now, it's not looking very promising. There are bandages around his head, left arm, and right leg...and the on-hand medic is currently in the process of putting a splint on that leg. Deacon Dale and T.J. Ratigan are also in the room, and they're not in the best of mental states either. Ratigan is still in the same angry funk he's been in all day, and Deacon Dale is showing concern that, while not quite close to panic, can certainly get a good look at it.]

Connors: Aaaargh! Hey, careful there!

Medic: There's no way we can do this here...we'll have to take you in to the hospital.

Connors: Like hell you will. I'm not letting some cheap-shotting bastard get rid of me. I've got to get out there and--

[Whatever the medic did right there, it didn't sit well with Connors. He lets out an agonized howl which he quickly follows with a string of profanity.]

Medic: Still think you can go out there?

Connors: All right, all right. Just...don't do that again.

Dale: What do we do now, boss? You can't go out there like that.

Connors: Don't you tell me what I can't do!

[Connors' eyes dart around feverishly as he looks for a way--ANY way out of his predicament. But every plan he comes up with is shot down just as quickly, forcing him to turn to the only real option.]

Connors: Son of a bitch.

[Ratigan's ears perk up, as if he thought Connors was referring to him, which probably isn't far from the truth.]

Connors: Good news, Trevor. Looks like you're in after all.

[T.J. Ratigan is too shocked to speak for a moment, until the reality sets in.]

Ratigan: Really?

[Connors nods...and then winces.]

Ratigan: Woohoo!

["Rotten" T.J. Ratigan, never one to pass up inappropriate behavior at the wrong moment, does a little celebratory dance. Right in front of his shocked teammate and injured employer.]

Connors: Hey, kid...

Ratigan: Yeah?

Connors: Screw this up and you'll be scrubbing garbage cans for the rest of your life.

[Ratigan chuckles, trying to lighten the mood.]

[The perfectly serious look on Connors' face doesn't help.]

Connors: Go on, get your gear on.

[You don't have to tell him twice...at least, not this time. Ratigan darts back toward the lockers, looking far too excited for someone whose manager just got Pearl Harbored by an unknown attacker.]

[Deacon Dale, looking far less enthused, remains behind.]

Connors: You too. You can't wrestle in that stuff.

Dale: Yeah...it's just...something's fishy, you know?

Connors: Oh, you think so? Here and I thought getting the crap kicked out of me while my lackeys were screwing around is perfectly normal. Look, I'll handle it. You just get ready.

Dale: But...

Connors: I SAID, I'll handle it. You just keep your mind on business. Go out there and win yourself some titles.

[Deacon sighs, resigning himself to another losing argument with his boss.]

Dale: Okay.

[Then he, too, heads back for the lockers...looking quite a bit less excited than Ratigan was. More than a little concerned, too.]

Connors: Good luck fellas. Make sure you--gahh! Would you watch what you're doing, you idiot?

Medic: Sorry.

[Cut.]

[The busy streets of Tokyo, Japan are littered with busy Japanese businessmen. Up and down the streets, everything looks the same as the foreign men and women make their way to their destinations. All of a sudden, something seems different. A much taller man with dark blonde hair is seen towering over the native Japanese. As the man moves closer, he can be unmistakably identified as ACW’s TC Jagger. Jagger is wearing a dark blue suit with a gold tie, dark sunglasses, and carries a newspaper under his arm. He makes his way down the street and takes a seat on a bench next to the sidewalk. Jagger takes a Boston Globe newspaper from under his arm and sets down next to him. He begins to talk.]

Jagger: Well, I’m stuck here in Japan. Not that I’m complaining, but I do wish I could make the trip to Ireland. You see, I’d really love to be there to show you guys what a real wrestler looks like, but I’m sorry. Right now I have some other issues to tend to. One week from tonight I will be in The Tokyo Dome, showing everyone in ACW why I deserve to be the ACW Champion. I’ll be competing against 5 others in the first ever Death Chamber match. If you want to witness real wrestling, you guys should tune in.

[Jagger stretches his arms out in a relaxing manner. He then brings his hands together and gives his knuckles a loud crack.]

Jagger: Now you guys are set to witness what I’m sure will be a “great” match. Python versus Jake Devins for the WWA Double-Crown Title.

[Jagger takes off his sunglasses and places them in his breast pocket. His strikingly green eyes dart out from beneath the hair in his face.]

Jagger: Your “champion” got a lucky break last time that title was on the line. He pinned me while locked in a full nelson. It was the only time I had ever been pinned, which only proves that it was a fluke. Jake Devins, he talks a lot of shit, but only backs it up after his opponent has already been beat down by someone else.

[Jagger picks up the Boston Globe and begins to unfold it in his lap.]

Jagger: So really, I don’t care which one of you walks away with the title. Python, I’d love to get you in the ring again. Devins, I’d love to show you what a real man is made of. Either way, the winner better be prepared. Because after I’m done in Japan, I’m coming for that belt, no matter who holds it.

[Jagger picks up the paper and begins to read it. The view of his face is blocked and he becomes just another body in the busy day of Tokyo.]

Keiler: Well, it’s time for our next match, and before we go any further, redhead, I have a little something for you.

Doyley: What’s that?

Keiler: Stand up.

[Doyley obliges, and James lays a plastic sheet on her leather chair.]

Keiler: We can’t afford to lose another chair, not with two more matches coming tonight.

[Doyley shoots Keiler a look.]

Doyley[sarcasm]: Thanks, love you too.

Keiler: Well, is there any doubt that this match is going to be violent?

Doyley: No sir. And I’ll enjoy every second of it.

Keiler: Right you are.

[Harjinder Keiler, ready to announce, turns towards the aisle with mic in hand.]

Harjinder: Ladies and Gentleman, this match, scheduled for one fall, is for the World Wrestling Alliance Double-Crown Championship, and is a no-disqualification match!

[Pop for violence.]

[The lights dim through out the arena with the fans murmuring off who's to come out next. Suddenly "Enter the Sandman" by Metallica starts blaring over the PA system and the fans all stand as they know who this song belongs to.]

Harjinder: Hailing from Sacramento, California and weighing in at two hundred and forty pounds, from Wrestling Republic...

[Hometown pop.]

Harjinder: “The Assassin” JAAAAAKKKKKKEEE DEEEVVVVVVINNNNNSSSS!

[White lights begin flashing through out the arena until Jake Devins steps out from behind the curtain and onto the stage, a smirk across his face. He is clad in his black loose martial arts pants, black elbow pads and black wrist tape. He stands on the stage for a bit before he finally begins his descent down to the ring, passing up outstretched hands left and right before he slides into the ring and climbs up the furthest turnbuckle and stares out into the sea of fans, making a belt symbol across his waist before he hops down and begins stretching out, jogging in place while his music fades.]

[The piano intro to “Broadcast Quality” by The Receiving End of Sirens suddenly rings through the arena as the entire room shimmers and grows dark. The crowd jumps to their feet, roaring in anticipation.]

Harjinder: And his opponent...representing Old Line Wrestling... hailing from Newark, New Jersey, and weighing in at 178lbs

[The full band kicks in and the lights flash violently back on, illuminating the entire arena in a fierce red glow.]

# How'd you know to find me here? #
# Tipped off you tiptoed to the tune of tapped wires and insider information #
# This manifested destiny you think you can bestow on me, #
# An epidemic with allure that brings intrigue to the dullest minds #

Harjinder: ...he is the current reigning and defending World Wrestling Alliance Double-Crown Champion... PYYYYYTHOONNNNNNNNN!!!!

[Another roar goes up from the fans as Python trots out onto the entrance ramp, the WWA Double Crown Championship hung proudly over his left shoulder. The reaction is mixed...half of the crowd hates Python because he’s fighting against the WR, and the other half cheers for Python because they hate Jake Devins. He stops to throw a fist in the air and scream back at the crowd. As usual, Python looks entirely focused and right at home. After slapping hands with fans all the way down the entrance ramp, the young high-flyer hits the ring. He rolls under the bottom rope and jumps to his feet, lifting the DC belt high over his head to a roar of approval from the crowd before handing it to the referee and turning his attention back to the ring.]

***DING DING DING***

[Devins moves in, slowly stalking Python. Python backs up from Devins’ advance for a second, but then leaps forward and dives for Jake’s right leg. Devins, seeing him coming, lifts his leg up, causing Python to miss. The Assassin brings the foot down, attempting a stomp, but Python catches the foot before it hits him. Spinning his body, he takes down Devins to his stomach. Leaping to his feet, Python attempts a double-stomp to the shoulder-blades of Devins, but the fighting instincts of Jake kick in and he rolls over to his back, dodging the stomp. Jake sweeps the leg of Python out from under him, dropping him to his back, and then leaps for the right leg of Python. Grabbing hold of Python’s right leg, he attempts to drag Python around into a leg lock hammerlock, but Python counters with a simple, yet effective kick to the face, which forces Devins to release the hold.]

Keiler: Fast-paced opening, which is not what Devins wants to find himself in. He needs to slow the pace of the match down if he’s going to have any chance on this one

[Back-rolling to his feet, Python hits the ropes and comes back at the rising Devins. Python leaps, but Jake, taking a step forward before Python was ready, plants his shoulder into the midsection of Python, and while Devins is staggered by the impact, Python falls to the mat grabbing his midsection in pain.]

Doyley: Shows you what kind of power a man like Devins has.

Keiler: Python can’t hope to match power against the larger Devins. He’s going to have to hit and run and not get caught like he just did.

[Devins moves in, again intent on attacking the right leg of Python, stomps at the right knee. After a couple of stomps, Devins pulls Python up to his feet. Clubbing him in the back of the head, he stuffs Python’s head into a standing head scissors. However, as Devins goes to grip Python, the young champion chops at Devins’ hands. Once Devins lets go, Python sweeps the feet out from under Jake, sending him to the canvas. Quick as a hiccup, Python takes a step to Devins’ side and hits a standing shooting star press on Devins! The champ stays for the cover.

1...

2...

Keiler: Kickout by Devins, with authority. It’s way too early to get a fall here.

[Python springs to his feet and meets Devins as he rises with a punch to the side of the head, driving the Assassin back to a nearby corner. Python starts to unload on Devins with heavy artillery, left and right hands. Grabbing his wrist, Python attempts to whip Devins across the ring, but Devins reverses the whip and short-arms Python into a vicious clothesline that nearly takes his head off. Python, instinctively, rolls to the apron to recover. Devins is yelling obscenities at him waiting for him to stand. Eventually he stands as Devins hit’s the opposite ropes and comes flying back. Devins leaps clear over him, flipping in the air and grabbing his trunks on the way down to pull him off and slam him into the mats below with a sunset power bomb, but Python overcompensates with the momentum, landing on his feet! Devins, stunned by the counter, swings at Python with a roundhouse kick, but the young man ducks and dropkicks the plant leg out from Devins, sending him into a heap on the floor.

Keiler: Are you kidding me? This kid can move!

Doyley: Yeah, but he’s in the wrong part of town right now. This is Jake’s turf.

[As if on cue, as Python is attempting to pull him to his feet, Devins shoots his arm out and low blows Python, doubling him over. Devins stumbles to his feet and grabs Python’s head, whipping him face first into the ring post. Python stumbles back holding his head and Devins quickly wraps his arms around his waist before popping his hips and drilling Python with a German suplex on the outside that makes Doyley squeal in enjoyment.]

Keiler: Now the kid’s in trouble. Devins is a vet of the sport, and he’s got Python in the position that he wants him in.

[Devins pitches Python over the guardrail into the first row of fans, who stagger back to avoid the hit. Devins quickly follows, and the two trade blows before Devins upper cuts him and makes him stagger back. Devins reaches over and grabs a beer from a fan and begins to take a huge swig from it. Python staggers in and Devins spit’s the alcohol right into his eyes. With Python clutching his eyes, Devins grabs a fans chair...]

Doyley: Here we go!

***CLANG!***

Doyley: Yay!

[...and smacks it across his head, knocking him down. Devins then proceeds to set two chairs next to each other so that they form a small table.

Keiler: I don’t like where this is going.

Doyley: I do! Violence!

[Devins then picks Python up, but Python knees him in the gut. As Devins bends over, clutching at his ribs area, Python goes down to one knee and, from almost a three-point stance position, drives his shoulder into Devins’ midsection and shoves him back into the steel stairs next to the ring, connecting with a loud BANG. As Jake doubles over, Python quickly goes up the steps and onto the apron. As Jake stands up and turns around, Python leaps off the apron and, landing on Devins’ shoulders, connects with his Hurricanrana Driver, absolutely planting Devins head-first on the floor.]

Keiler: Geez, that’ll make a neck surgeon smile.

[Python covers Devins, but the referee yells down to him that pinfalls must happen inside the ring. Sighing, Python rolls into the ring and plays to the crowd, to another mixed reaction. Crouching in the middle of the ring, Python motions for Devins to get back up on the outside. As Devins gets to his feet, Python takes off for the opposite ropes. As Python comes back, he does a handstand, which is enough time for Devins to jump up to the apron. As Python comes out of the handstand and goes to leap off the top, Devins cracks him in the face with a STIFF elbow, staggering Python.]

Doyley: Well that’s one way to ground a high-flyer.

Keiler: Yes, I’d imagine a well-placed elbow to the face would ground a lot of people when it’s thrown by Jake Devins.

[Devins, too, is woozy, so he spends a second trying to clear the cobwebs out of his head. Python, recovering first and seeing an opportunity present itself, is quick to run to Devins’ left. He leaps up and, using the ropes for leverage, swings both feet towards the waiting head of Devins. However, the Assassin, using his martial arts background, catches both feet and traps them between his arms. Python tries to pull his feet free, but Jake will not have it. Grabbing hold of Python’s tights with his free hand, he uses his brute strength to rip Python from the ropes and fling his body out. At the apex of his height, Devins leaps off and DRIVES the midsection of Python through the two chairs set at ringside with a sickening thud.]

Doyley: YES!

Keiler: Vicious face plant by The Assassin, and Python’s in real trouble now.

[Devins is still seated outside the ring, trying to get his bearings. Python is reeling on the outside, clutching at his ribcage. Slowly getting to his feet, Jake picks up Python and rolls him into the ring. As Python rolls into the ring, we can see a small trickle of blood coming from the corner of his mouth.]

Keiler: This is really bad for Python. He’s had his back brutalized by Kai Scott kendo stick shots in Old Line, and it looks like any kind of internal injuries that might have caused may now be further complicated.

[Devins rolls into the ring. Grabbing the right leg, he turns Python over and looks about ready to drop an elbow on the leg when he sees the blood coming from the corner of Python’s mouth. Smiling, he drops the right leg and leaps up, dropping the elbow on the ribcage of Python instead.]

Keiler: And that’s the sign of a veteran, changing game plans on the fly in order to take advantage of a situation.

[Jake stands and stomps away on the ribs of Python, despite his best efforts to cover up. Python, on instinct, rolls back out onto the apron to avoid the stomping. As he stands, Devins runs off the opposite ropes and, once again, leaps over Python, but this time, he brings him down upon what used to be two steel chairs with the sunset flip powerbomb, causing Python to scream out in pain as he lands.]

Doyley: I love this match!

Keiler: Back to the well with the sunset flip powerbomb, and this time he connected most brutally.

[Devins scoops Python up and throws him back into the ring. He rolls in after and picks up the DC Champion by the hair. He whips him across the ring, the runs off the opposite ropes. Coming off the opposite ropes, Devins lays into Python with a BRUTAL spear, then falls down for the cover.

1...

2...

Keiler: No! Shoulder up by Python.

[Devins looks a little frustrated as he pulls up Python by the hair. Devins shouts obscenities in the direction of the rising Python, but by doing so, he allows Python enough time to set his head under Devins’ jaw and hit him with a jawbreaker. With the Assassin stumbling back, Python takes the opportunity to bounce off the opposite ropes and come back with a spinning heel kick that takes down Jake Devins. Holding his ribs, Python is slow to get up, but when he does, he sees Devins stumbling to his feet. Python runs off the ropes and comes back with a forward roll. As Devins readies a roundhouse right hand, Python surprises him by pushing his legs forward first, locking into his head, and using that to pull his body up into the position to pull Devins over with the head scissors. Python follows up by covering Devins.

1...

2...

Keiler: No, shoulder up by Devins.

[As Python gets up, Devins rolls out of the ring. Ducking under the ring, Devins throws up the apron and starts to look under the ring for something. Python, suspecting what is going on, stands at the opposite end of the ropes. Devins comes up from under the apron with an implement that makes Doyley squeal in delight.]

[A barbed wire-wrapped baseball bat.]

[As he turns back to the ring to get back in, however, he’s a victim of Python’s latest innovation: a front-sliding Tornado DDT to the floor, which has the crowd, even the pro-WR-er’s, pumped.]

Keiler: What a move!

[Python doesn’t waste much time. Spying the barbed-wire baseball bat, he picks it up with a smile. As Devins stumbles to his feet, Python winds up and takes a swing at Jake Devins, leveling him with the baseball bat right to the head. Immediately, we see blood pouring from the forehead of the Assassin as he rolls to his stomach and attempts to cover up. Python, with the advantage, pulls up Devins, but the martial arts expert unloads on the face of Python with an open-handed palm strike. As Jake stands straight-up, we see the look in his eyes as the blood comes from his forehead, and it’s a scary one.]

Doyley: Oooh! Blood!

Keiler: I’ve seen that look in Jake’s eyes before, and when he gets it, people get hurt.

[Python charges back at Devins, but Devins steps into the charge, grabbing Python in a bear hug, and launching him overhead with a belly to belly suplex that throws Python back-first into the side of the announcer’s table with a thud. Devins grabs the bat from the ground where Python dropped it mid-suplex and throws it between the ropes into the ring, nearly clipping the ref in the leg. Grabbing Python next, Devins throws him back into the ring and follows. Picking up the bat, Devins stalks Python from behind as he gets up. When Python is standing, Devins lays the barbed wire baseball bat into the lower back of Python, causing him to scream out and fall to his knees.]

[As Devins pulls the bat out of Python’s back, he rips a good chunk of the black, form-fitting T-shirt with it, also drawing some red blood spots on the back of his shirt. Devins takes a step forward and PLASTERS Python in the midsection with the bat, again catching it in the shirt as Python falls forward on the bat like he’s been stabbed. Letting go of the bat, Devins quickly leaps to Python’s other side, wraps the legs of Python into a figure-four, then, hooking his hands under Python’s chin and feet, Devins puts his knees into the back of Python and leans back, pulling him back into a bow and arrow submission.]

[With the bat still stuck into the front of his midsection.]

[Doyley is quivering.]

Doyley: Best...submission hold...ever!

Keiler: The veteran Devins has adjusted his strategy well on the fly, zeroing in on the midsection ever since that two-chair train wreck earlier. It could be enough to get him a championship belt.

[Devins cranks back on the submission. Python screams “NO!” as the ref asks him if he wants to submit. Python flails his hands around, trying to find a way out of the submission, when his right hand bumps up against the handle of the bat. Gripping the bat with his right hand, he tries to wrench it out of his midsection, but can’t budge it. As Devins wretches back in the hold, trying for a submission, Python reaches up with his left hand and grips the front end of the bat, managing to avoid cutting his fingers open. With both hands on the bat, he pushes it up, ripping the bat from both the shirt and his flesh. Devins’ eyes go wide as Python desperately swings the baseball bat into Devins’ forehead, causing him to break the hold. Python slumps forward, dropping the bat and falling to his stomach. Devins remains laying on his back, blood pouring from his forehead at an alarming rate.]

[And the ref has no choice but to begin the count.]

Keiler: What a travesty for this match to potentially end in a double count-out!

Doyley: I know, a girl doesn’t like to be teased.

[At six, the woozy Jake Devins starts to pull himself up. At seven, Python pulls himself slowly to his feet as well. Python’s shirt is a black and red torn mess. Devins is bleeding everywhere...but he’s the first to his feet. Python isn’t far behind, but neither man looks particularly healthy. Devins walks over to Python, but the youngster decides to go to the offensive, throwing a series of rapid-fire lefts and rights to the head of Devins. Once backed to the ropes, Python goes for the Irish whip, but Devins reverses. Python, however, handsprings off the ropes and comes back with a beautiful elbow that catches The Assassin unaware. Cover.

1...

2...

NO!

Keiler: Shoulder up! Only a two!

[Python, undaunted, steps out to the apron and readies himself. As Devins stands, Python springboards and hits a missile dropkick, flooring the bigger man and sending blood droplets everywhere. Cover, once again.

1...

2...

TH-NO!

Keiler: Shoulder up again!

[Python slaps the mat in frustration. Stepping out onto the apron again, he climbs onto the top rope and, once again, waits for Devins to stand. As Devins stands and turns around, Python leaps with a flying body press...

...into a Devins superkick to the sternum, folding Python like a classroom note.]

Keiler: Geez!

Doyley: Wow!

[Python coughs up a little bit of blood. Devins, on spaghetti legs, stumbles backwards and falls into the ropes.]

Keiler: Jake has lost a LOT of blood tonight. I don’t know how much more he can continue.

[Pulling himself back up, he wipes the blood from his eyes and comes back over to where Python is struggling to stand. Kicking Python in the gut, Devins hits the Assassination on the champion, sending him crashing to the mat.]

Keiler: Cover him, it’s over!

[Devins rolls slowly over to his stomach and crawls over to where Python flopped to the ground. Draping an exhausted arm over Python is the only cover he can manage.]

1...

2...

THRE…NO!

Keiler: Foot on the rope!

[And indeed, the referee is pointing at Python’s left foot, which is draped over the bottom rope. Devins slowly peaks his head up from the cover, looking at where the ref is pointing. Pulling himself up, he grabs Python and tries to guide him up to his feet. Once successful in doing that, Devins lifts Python up onto his shoulder and places him on the turnbuckle facing the crowd. Climbing up behind him, Devins steadies himself on the second turnbuckle and drags him thumb across his throat to a mixed reaction from the crowd.]

Keiler: Is he going for The Hit off the top rope? That could kill this kid!

[Devins hooks his head under Python’s arm, but Python responds by punching Devins in the head. Two, three, four punches later, Devins is down on his back in the ring. Python takes this opportunity to raise his fist in the air and shout out to the crowd before standing on the top turnbuckle and leaping off, NAILING Devins with the Code Red...

...and then writhing around on the canvas in extreme pain.]

Keiler: He got it all, but at what cost?

[Python leans over the bottom rope to the outside, spitting out blood while holding his ribs with both hands. Finally, after a couple of seconds, Python composes himself enough to reach over and lay his aching body across Devins for the cover.

1...

2...

THREE!!!

NO!

Keiler: Devins got the shoulder up!

Doyley: Python took too much time, and Devins escaped a near-death situation

[Both men are, again, on the ground, nursing their wounds. We get a particularly nasty close-up shot of Devins’ face and hair covered in blood, followed by a shot of Python’s twisted into a painful shot. Once again, the referee begins his count, and is up to seven before both men get to their knees with the assistance of the ropes. Both men stumble towards the middle of the ring, barely able to stand. Devins throws a right cross, connecting. Python with a right hand, connecting. Back and forth, like tenth-round boxers, the two exchange rights until Devins pools all of his strength and connects with a right roundhouse kick, forcing Python backwards. Python stumbles back into the waiting arms of Devins.]

[Devins lifts Python, possibly for a back body drop or release Northern Lights suplex. Python, however, hooks onto Devins’ head with his left arm. Using his right arm, Python pounds on the back of Devins a couple of times before pushing off and shifting his entire bodyweight to Devins right. Bringing his knee up to Devins’ chin, he falls backwards, jacking Devins’ jaw upwards in a modified version of the Snakebite. Fighting the pain from the landing (and based on the look on his face, there is a lot of it), Python reaches up and, grabbing a hold of the tights of the woozy Assassin, Python rolls him up into an inside cradle.]

1...

2...

THREE!!!

***DING DING DING!***

[The ref calls for the bell as Python flops off of Devins to a mixed reaction. Python, slowly rolls out of the ring, gingerly planting his feet on the floor as the referee walks around to him, carrying the DC title.]

Keiler: Devins took Python to hell, and the kid survived one epic bloodbath. Call it out, redhead.

Doyley: Here is your winner, and STILL Double Crown Champion, Python!

[Python’s t-shirt is a bloody rag, and his left hand seems attached to his ribcage, but his right hand holds up the WWA Double-Crown championship high as Broadcast Quality begins to play over the loudspeaker.]

[Jake Devins, spent and bleeding profusely from the forehead, lays on his back as the medical personnel slide into the ring with a stretcher board.]

[We cut to a table shot of Keiler and Doyley, the latter of which is still sitting on the plastic sheet that the former gave her.]

Doyley: You can’t fault Jake’s efforts at all, James. He left his heart and soul in that ring.

Keiler: True, but that’s an awful pill to swallow, knowing that this kid has his number. No doubt that Jake will bounce back...he’s one of the most resilient men in Ireland, and he’ll...

***THWACK***

Doyley: What the?

[We cut back to the ring, where we see Jake, upright by some miracle, holding the stretcher board in his hands. One of the medical personnel is down in the ring, holding his head. The other runs for cover.]

Keiler: How is he still standing?

[Devins, a look of pure fury in his eyes, kneels down by the ropes and rolls out of the ring, holding the stretcher board. After securing his footing with the aid of the ropes, he grabs the stretcher board and circles the ring, intent on getting back to what he started.]

Keiler: Jake’s still out for more blood, and after that violent match, I’m wondering how he’s conscious.

Doyley: I don’t think that Devins even realizes the match is over!

Keiler: Oh, I think he does, that’s why he’s even more pissed off.

[The crowd suddenly starts booing as a figure emerges from the back.]

Keiler: What in the hell is Malik Johnson doing out here?

Doyley: I'm sure we're about to find out.

[Malik comes racing down the ramp and around the ring. He catches up to Devins, kicks him in the groin and nails him with a twist of fate. The crowd boos even louder.]

Keiler: Well, I guess you were right.

Doyley: Malik Johnson’s helping out Python?!?

[Malik walks over to Python and extends his hand. Python looks at Malik and waves him off. Johnson frowns and punches Python and picks up the DC title and nails Python in the face with it. Malik pulls Python up and rolls him into the ring, then slides in and drags him to the corner. He sits Python on the top rope and he climbs up. Malik hoists Python into a powerbomb position and leaps off the turnbuckles, twisting in the air and nails.....]

Keiler: SIT YO ASS DOWN! Malik Johnson just leveled Python with his finisher off the turnbuckles and twisting in mid air.

Doyley: Johnson slides back out of the ring and grabs Devins, rolling him in the ring as well.

Keiler: And now he’s got a chair!

[Malik looks at both men on the mat. He shakes his head and tosses the chair to the mat. He pulls Python up and places him in the corner. Malik goes and pulls Devins up and places him in the corner.]

Keiler: There is no telling what we might see here tonight. Southern Uprising already made it known that they were going to turn heads.

[Malik grabs the chair and backs up to the opposite side of the ring. He charges the corner with Python and Devins there. When nearing them, he tosses the chair at Devins head and leaps up with a drop kick.]

Doyley: We need to get someone out here to stop this madness!

[Malik motions for a mic.]

Malik: Ireland, I'm back again. You thought that was it for me earlier tonight huh?

[Malik smiles as he looks at the carnage.]

Malik: All I've been hearing is that the DC title doesn't have anyone just gunning for it. The champ is a lame ass. The contenders are jokes. No one has been involved in the Double Crown scene that has set a fire under it.

Well WWA, the fire is set. Send somebody my way to extinguish it.

Fair warning though: Don't get too close or you might get burned.

[Malik picks the chair back up and nails both men again, busting them wide open. He exits the ring to a chorus of boos from the fans.]

Keiler: Malik Johnson certainly making his intentions for the DC Title known tonight.

Doyley: Though I appreciate the extra blood, did he really have to mess up Devins more then he already went through?

Keiler: I’m sure Python is deeply touched by your concern for him as well.

[Raj Patel makes his way through the crowded Ravenhill Stadium to the luxury box where the former number one contenders for the WWA tag team titles are seated. He knocks on the door and no one answers. He knocks again, the door opens to a large man who was hired as part of the Stadiums security for the night.]

Security: “Yes.”

Raj: “I’d like to speak to the Southern Kingz if that’s possible, please?”

[The man looks over his shoulder at Jeremy King who nods his head. Raj walks in and sees a table full of food. He reaches for a bottle that’s sitting on the table, but his hand is brushed away by the security guard,]

Raj: “Oh, I’m sorry!”

[He walks away from the table and begins to sit down beside Jeremy King.]

Jeremy: “Wait Raj, you can’t sit on Sitsonchair!”

[Raj looks down at the chair and shakes his head, as he doesn’t understand what Jeremy is talking about.]

Jeremy: “The one thing I’ve kept from my past was my first ever tag partner that I held the tag titles with.”

[Raj looks over at the foldable metal chair.]

Raj: “You held the titles with a chair?”

Jeremy: “Yeah I know its sort a long story and I don’t feel like getting into it right now.”

[Jeremy motions to the security guard and he throws him two bottles of water.]

Jeremy: “Thirsty? I hear you have a couple of things to ask of us. I want it to be known that we’re not here to cause any trouble. We just wanted to see a good show and seeing as tonight has been great so far I can’t say we’re disappointed.”

[Raj takes the bottle of water as Jeremy motions to Chris. Jeremy stands up and walks towards the table of food as he prepares himself a plate.]

Chris: “Raj, I know that you thought we wanted to be on camera and that we really wanted to answer some of your questions, but like Jeremy said we aren’t here for that reason. I wanted to see what the Texas Outlaws could do against a team that very few teams knew about.”

Raj: “You’re here to watch the guys that beat you all two out of three times?”

[Chris looks up at Raj with a stunned and shocked look on his face.]

Chris: “Yeah Raj, I’m here to watch a team that beat me two out of three times for the WWA tag team titles. I don’t know if you’ve ever noticed, but teams that study the wrestling ring and learn all they can about any opponents that they may come across, well they have a better chance at beating the teams that are on a list of rankings.”

Raj: “Well, since we don’t actually have a tag team division here in Wrestling Republic, I must say I’ve never noticed.”

[Jeremy turns around from the table and tosses a grape at Raj. Raj looks up at him as Jeremy eats a grape.]

Jeremy: “You’ve seen real tag team wrestling?”

[Raj shakes his head from side to side and frowns a little.]

Raj: “I have seen tag team wrestling, but it’s been on youtube.com. I’ve never been able to witness what you all call real tag team wrestling. This will actually be my very first real live tag team wrestling match.”

Chris: “Well, I believe you need to stay up here and watch it in style then!”

[Raj is shocked that they actually said he could stay with them and watch the match from their box.]

Raj: “I’d love to, but I must decline, my duty calls, I have to get back to the backstage area just in case we have any breaking news during International Wars.”

[Chris shrugs his shoulders.]

Chris: “Well, I guess you really want to know about what’s going on with us in our new surroundings in OCW, huh?”

Raj: “Well, I hear about your friends in Vince Webb Jr. and Malik…”

[Jeremy turns around and stops Raj in mid sentence.]

Jeremy: “Whoa bite your tongue now. Malik and Vince Webb Jr. are far from friends. They’re scum that tried to leach onto us and drag us down and they succeeded. If I’d not been focusing on teaching them during the tag match I would’ve never been able to be rolled up and pinned.”

Raj: “So just because of a little thing like that you despise them?”

[Jeremy slaps his head and looks shocked.]

Jeremy: “A little thing. Look at me I’m a broken and battered man. The Texas Outlaws didn’t do this to me. Jr. and Malik did this. They broke me open they caused me to almost lose sight in my left eye.”

[Chris nods his head as Jeremy rants on.]

Jeremy: “It’s shocking that you’d even attempt to come in here and talk to us about Southern Uprising. My hatred for them burns ten times more than of the Texas Outlaws. My mind is focused and if by some miracle Chris and I were able to face Blood and Norris again I believe we’d be the WWA tag team champions.”

[Jeremy takes a big bite out of his sandwich.]

Jeremy: “For the moment you’re here I want you to think how kind we were to you. I gave you a bottle of water when security wouldn’t let you near it. I just can’t believe you repay me by disrespecting the Southern Kingz.”

[Jeremy reaches into Raj’s pocket pulling out a card that has their names on it.]

Jeremy: “You’re pathetic. I bet without this you wouldn’t even know who we are. You wouldn’t have known what we had accomplished or what we’ve done the past few weeks. This whole time you’ve pretended to know what was going on and all you did was read from a card.”

[Jeremy tears the card in half and throws it in Raj’s face. Raj looks scared as Jeremy turns laughing.]

Jeremy: “Don’t worry I’m not going to hurt you. In fact I think you need to know, you’ve given me a chance to vent off some steam. I know I can do almost anything that I want, but I choose to make sure the fans are happy.”

[Jeremy nods to Chris.]

Jeremy: “Southern Hospitality and their monkey may have started something that nobody’s ready to see. I can’t promise things will not get messy, but I can’t promise that other people will not be drug into the carnage. Aside from Malik and Jr., I still have my sights set for gold. If I can’t get the WWA titles then maybe I should go for the next best thing. Maybe we should go for the Stampede tag team titles.”

[Chris looks shocked.]

Chris: “My main goal and objective is the WWA tag team titles, all other titles are just another belt to hold my pants up with, but this little tussle that Southern Hospitality started. Malik, bringing in Mustafa was the smartest thing you could have ever done, seeing as how neither you nor Vince is man enough to face me one on one.”

[A smile comes across Raj’s face.]

Raj: “So they’re scared of you?”

Chris: “Scared is an understatement. I believe the old saying goes, put your nuts in your sack and not in your mouth, but times have changed, so I’m not really sure if that’s still the in phrase.”

[Raj shrugs his shoulders as he gets a phone call on his cell phone. He turns his back to Chris and answers the call. He talks on the phone for a few minutes and turns back around to the Southern Kingz.]

Raj: “I’m sorry guys, but I have to go, I’m needed backstage in a hurry. Thank you for the time.”

[Raj rushes past the security guard and out the door, leaving the Southern Kingz look at one another trying to figure out what just happened.]

[Jack and Jim once again emerge from the WCWA locker room. Jack is all fired up.]

JD: “It’s time. I’m not going to sit idly by while Blood and Norris get to show off on this PPV. Not after they showed up at our first PPV and ran their mouths. Oh no. There’s something I have to do.”

JB: “Are you sure this is the time? I mean Vince did tell us not to make a stink.”

JD: “No, that’s crap. What they did makes me sick to my stomach. I for one, will not stand for it any longer.”

JB: “I don’t like them any more than you do. But the fact of the matter is, they ARE still holding the WFWA belts.”

JD: “That’s the other thing. They run around pretending those belts still mean something. It just doesn’t sit well with me. In fact, it’s tearing me up inside.”

JB: “Is there any way I can talk you out of this?”

JD: “None.”

JB: “Alright, let’s go do this. But if we’re gonna do this, then I want to be prepared.”

[Jim disappears back into the locker room.]

Keiler: “Oh my god! It looks as if the shit is really going to hit the fan for TTO tonight! The former 2 time WFWA tag team champions look as if they are headed to the ring, and in a bad way!”

"You know what the problem is? This place is a sausage fest, dude."

[Backstage, several of the grips and security guards were not expecting that previous statement and gave a puzzled look. The one who just blurted out the previous statement walks right into the camera’s view.]

[Daniel Corey, one third of the Team ELITE group in OCW. Corey is wearing a black OCW t-shirt, blue jeans and black and navy blue Nike sneakers on his feet. A white Nike headband goes above his ear and around his short, bleached blonde hair that goes down to mesh with his thin brown beard.]

Corey: Ryan, let's get out of here and find some nice trim. I can't be chilling around all these dudes all night.

[Following Corey into the picture is the six feet, six inch tall Chris Butler. This man is around two hundred seventy pounds yet never speaks. Wearing a pair of khaki pants, a white wifebeater and a tan beanie over his shaved head and he shakes his head at Corey.]

Corey: I mean, Ryan, I haven't even seen one person I've ever watched when I was younger.

[Corey turns around just in time to bounce off the chest of someone the alliance has not seen in months. Clad in a black button down shirts, black slacks and the designer shoes to match is the recently retired "Blockbuster" C.J. Rowell.]

Corey: DUDE! You're.... you are... C.J. Rowell! OH SNAP!

[Corey is pointing his finger at Rowell while looking back as Ryan Storm walks into the picture in a dark orange Texas Longhorns baseball jersey, black jeans and black sneakers. Storm just smirks at Corey as Rowell dusts his shirt off.]

Corey: This is C.J. Rowell!

Storm: I think I've met him before since he's only like my cousin.

[Corey is in total mark out mode as Rowell walks over and shakes hands with Storm and they do the manly "quick hug/pat on the back deal grown men do" thing. He turns around to look at Butler and Corey.]

Storm: C.J., this is Chris Butler.

[Butler reaches his hand out as Rowell does the same and they shake hands.]

Storm: He doesn't say much.

[Butler release Rowell's hand and kind of shrugs his shoulders.]

Storm: And the little boy behind him pissing his pants is Daniel Corey.

[Corey tries to man up and walks over to shakes hands with an idol of his. The two men shake hands before Corey continues on his star struck tirade.]

Corey: Man, you don't even know how much you influenced me growing up. I was at every MWL show you and Ryan wrestled on. I used to con my friends into driving to New Hampshire to see the WMW shows. I did lawn duty every weekend just so my parents would order the pay per views. You are like a God, dude.

[Rowell chuckles.]

Rowell: Thanks kid, Ryan's told me a lot about you guys. I must say that I've been impressed with what I've seen so far. He mentioned your trip to Japan as well.

[Storm chimes in.]

Storm: They're booked in a huge main event on the twenty-ninth against seven other teams. The last team remaining gets a shot at the World Tag Team Titles.

Rowell: When did OCW get that many tag teams? When I was there with Michael Lennox we had like four.

Storm: They have everyone now. Besides these two guys you have Blasier and Jansen, Malik and Vince Jr., Kenta Tseng and some Kevin guy, those Emo Rangers that used to be in theSTAGE, GND, two of Ramsey's guys from SuperstarPro and the Baileys from LUCHA Irrompible. Not to mention TTO are still around barely and The Southern Kingz came over. It's a hot division now.

[Corey chimes in once again.]

Corey: But we know we can beat them all. We're not Team ELITE because it’s a good marketing deal. We are the best around.

[Rowell checks his watch by bringing his left hand and wrist up towards his face.]

Rowell: Speaking of the best around, the World Tag Team Title match is coming up in a few. I've got to head back to my suite upstairs to catch it. You guys want to come watch the rest of the show up there?

[Corey damn near jumps out of his skin when hearing this.]

Corey: Dude, that'd be awesome. C'mon guys, let's go!

[The four men walk off toward Rowell's personal suite.]

Voice Over: "We are TTO, and that is all you need to know"

["Bad Company" by Bad Company begins to play as the world tag team champions come out from behind the curtain, and stand on the entrance ramp. Both are wearing long wrestling pants with "Texas Outlaws" running down the sides, and black t-shirts with red letters of "Conspiracy Enders" on the front. They have the world tag team titles hanging over their shoulders as they simply stand on the ramp, soaking in the chorus of boos that are cascading down on them. Moments later, they are flanked by manager Pamela Duke-Jackson.]

Harjinder: "From Dallas, Texas..."

[The members of the TTO begin to make their way towards the ring, only stopping briefly to threaten a few fans who managed to get too close to the guard rail. However, they know that a stiff penalty would await them if they started any fights, so they just continue to walk towards the ringside area.]

Harjinder: "The WWA World Tag Team Champions"

[Both Terry and Bobby hop up on the ring apron as they stare holes through the Conspiracy. As they step through the ropes, it becomes apparent that they won't be by themselves. For Sean Jackson also makes his way down towards the ringside area. Knowing that the Conspiracy is a three man team, the TTO decides to keep the odds even...]

[That is IF you aren't counting Pamela Duke-Jackson.]

Harjinder: "Terry Norris and Bobby Blood..."

[Sean and Pamela then take position in the Outlaw corner.]

Harjinder: "The Texas Outlaws"

Keiler: The dastardly Texas Outlaws have entered the arena here. These guys have been mowing down the lawn known as the tag team division since they took the belts from C.J. Rowell and Michael Lennox months ago.

Doyley: The team is in full force as well. Sean Jackson is at ringside alongside his wife and manager Pamela Duke-Jackson.

Keiler: And here come the challengers from Old Line Wrestling.

Harjinder: Introducing the challengers! Representing Old Line Wrestling...at a combined weight of four hundred and seventy-eight pounds...two-thirds of the OLW Trios Tag Team Champions..."The Judge" Deacon Dale! "Rotten" T.J. Ratigan! THE CONSPIRACY!

[That's your cue, sound man. Guano Apes, "Open Your Eyes."] "BOOOOOOOOOO!!"

[The WWA fan base was introduced to "Wise Guy" Wyatt Connors at the last supercard. They naturally--and correctly--assume that anyone associated with him is also a complete douchebag.]

Keiler: Earlier tonight, Wyatt Connors was assaulted by an unknown assailant. The TTO know all about this and that's why Jackson's at ringside.

[Emerging through the curtains are two men who are complete unknowns to nearly the entire audience: "The Judge" Deacon Dale and "Rotten" T.J. Ratigan. They walk slowly down the ramp, enjoying the moment. Ratigan is in his wrestling gear (although it's tough to tell, since it looks like what he normally wears.) Deacon Dale, following slightly behind, is covered up by a large robe, with a fake noose around his neck. You'd probably say it looks stupid, and you'd get no argument from him.]

Doyley: The odds are looking in the TTO's favor right now, but these guys are kind of creepy.

[A few of the more unruly fans throw garbage, but most of them are showing vocal displeasure. Surprisingly, there's a few supporting cheers in the crowd--but when the alternative is the Texas Outlaws, sometimes it's best to choose the devil you don't know. Deacon Dale ignores them all, already being in a bad enough mood because of the stupid robe. Ratigan, on the other hand, shows the fans some of the more colorful phrases and gestures he's learned so far while in Ireland.]

Keiler: These guys are surely not favored by the fans in the Maryland region, but here they're hearing a few cheers.

[They gather by one of the unmanned corners, and discuss some last-minute strategy. Also, Deacon Dale takes the opportunity to remove that ridiculous getup, revealing his wrestling gear underneath. At last, the Conspiracy step up to their corner and climb to the apron.]

Doyley: Jackson and Pamela exist the ring and stand by the announce table here. It looks like Deacon Dale and Bobby Blood are going to start the match, as their partners have vacated the ring to the aprons.

[Blood and Dale meet at the center of the ring. Looking each other up and down, before Blood tries to pie face Dale. Not intimidated, Dale catches Blood by the wrist and quickly turns it into a wristlock. Blood drops to his knees in pain as Dale applies more pressure.]

Keiler: A wristlock by Dale on Blood here. Blood fights to his feet and tries to throw Dale off of him with a modified arm drag. Dale hangs on and turns the move into an armbar.

Doyley: He just spit at the direction of Terry Norris. Norris is trying to get into the ring but the referee stops him from progressing.

[Dale rakes Blood's eyes with a free hand as he releases the hold. He pulls Blood to his feet, grabs the left arm of Blood and hits a short arm clothesline that drops him to the mat again.]

Keiler: Huge clothesline from Dale there. Now, is he going to tag in Ratigan in now?

Doyley: Dale thinks Ratigan attacked Connors to get into the match. That might not be the right state of mind to be in.

[Dale pulls Blood into the Conspiracy corner. Ratigan has his arm stretched out for a tag as Dale slaps it extremely hard.]

Keiler: That was not a normal tag from Deacon Dale to his partner.

Doyley: No kidding, Ratigan is shaking the pain out of his hand as he climbs up to the top rope.

[From the top rope, Ratigan comes down with a double axe handle to the arm of Blood.]

Keiler: Ratigan with a huge attack on Blood's arm.

[Blood quickly grabs his arm in pain and slides out of the ring to avoid any more damage. The fans are jeering Blood loudly as he walks around the ring towards the TTO corner.]

Keiler: Blood is on the outside of the ring to regroup here.

[While Blood and Jackson are talking strategy, Ratigan is talking trash to Norris, who is still on the apron. Norris, never the one to be short on words, fires back with a few more before dropping off the apron to talk to Jackson and Blood.]

Keiler: Keep an eye on Ratigan here, he is known to fly.

[Ratigan quickly jumps up onto the top turnbuckle and dives onto the entire TTO crew with a front somersault. Pamela goes running before the impact as all four men hit the floor.]

Doyley: Holy crap! TJ Ratigan just showed how big his set really is there. There are four guys in pain right at my feet.

Keiler: Nothing new, huh?

[Ratigan is the first to his feet. He throws a few kicks at a couple of the TTO members before climbing back into the ring. Norris is the first up and helps Jackson and Blood to their feet. Holding the back of his head, Blood rolls under the bottom rope and gets to his feet as Ratigan charges at him. Blood quickly sidesteps the smaller man and slings him over the top rope to the feet of Jackson and Pamela.]

Doyley: This is not going to be good for the Conspiracy here.

[Blood and Norris have the referee distracted as Jackson starts putting the boots to Ratigan. He then pulls him off the floor and Irish whips him back first into the steel steps.]

Keiler: It's three on two out here. Jackson has no business being out here.

Doyley: Anytime one of them has a match, it's all for one, James.

[Norris comes over and drags Ratigan to his feet. He rolls the OLW wrestler back into the ring for Blood to pounce. Blood steps on Ratigan's throat and starts choking him as the referee demands he break it up. Blood tags Norris in, who comes in ready to fight.]

Doyley: Deacon Dale is trying to come in but the referee cuts him off.

[As the referee and Dale argue, Blood whips Ratigan into the ropes and takes him down with a drop toe hold. Norris follows up with a knee drop to the back of his head.]

Keiler: You may not like them, but Norris and Blood are very experienced and know how to work everything into their favors.

Doyley: I like them.

Keiler: You would.

[Norris stomps the back of Ratigan for good measure before pulling him to his feet, then muscles the smaller man into a neutral corner. Norris rams his shoulder into the ribs of Ratigan a few times. Taking a few steps back, he charges in with a running clothesline, causing Ratigan to crumple to the canvas.]

Keiler: Ratigan needs to tag out right here.

[Norris peels him off the mat and picks him up into a sideslam position before delivering a big backbreaker near the TTO corner. Norris tags in Blood, who comes in and stomps on the back of Ratigan's head.]

Doyley: Ratigan is definitely hurting here. The champs are picking him apart.

[Blood picks Ratigan up and shoves him against the ropes, drapes his throat over the middle rope and sits down causing a choke hold. The referee starts his mandatory five count. At four, Blood stands up and argues with the referee as Sean Jackson grabs a hold of Ratigan's head and pulls down, choking him again.]

Keiler: Jackson is interfering again! C'mon!

[Jackson releases the choke in time for Norris to drop a leg across the back of Ratigan's head.]

Doyley: Dale is over there telling the referee to throw Jackson out of ringside.

[Blood stands on the back of Ratigan's neck as he tags Norris back in. Terry Norris steps through the ropes quickly and puts the boots to Ratigan while Blood climbs back onto the apron. Norris drags Ratigan back to his feet and hooks on a front facelock onto the challenger.]

Keiler: I think Norris is going to break out a suplex here.

Doyley: He can do that?

[Norris lifts Ratigan up for a vertical suplex. While holding him up in the air, Dale sneaks into the ring and charges at Norris and takes him down with a spear. This causes Ratigan to land face first on the mat.]

Keiler: Dale couldn't stand the double teams and saved his partner the only way he could there.

Doyley: But James, I think he just made things worse for Ratigan.

[The referee forces Dale back into the corner as both Norris and Ratigan are struggling to get back to their corners and tag out. Both men are dragging their bodies towards their partners.]

Keiler: Norris makes the tag first. Bobby Blood is coming back to try to stop TJ Ratigan from making a tag to the fresh Deacon Dale!

[Blood grabs the foot of Ratigan not a minute too soon and drags him away from Dale's outstretched hand. Ratigan hops onto his free foot and hits Blood with a huge Enziguri.]

Keiler: Both men are down as the referee starts his ten count. Should neither man get up by ten he'd have to declare this match a draw.

Doyley: I don't see that happening... it never does in tag team matches.

[Ratigan, closer to his corner compared to Blood, makes the hot tag first. As Dale steps through the ropes, Norris gets the tag from Blood and comes charging into the ring as well. Dale meets Norris with a toe kick to the stomach of Norris. Dale, the veteran of his team, follows up with a strong swinging neckbreaker.

Keiler: It appears we have some unscheduled visitors tonight, Kel...

Doyley: What?

[Scattered faces in the crowd turn toward the entranceway, their attention drawn as the curtain flutters and two figures emerge onto the ramp. By now, the very sight of these individuals is enough to evoke a disapproving buzz from those who've noticed the arrivals.]

[On the left: Evan Jansen. On the right: Ryan Blasier. Both men are dressed in street wear and black T-shirts bearing the conspicuous spray-painted 'SC' logo. Blasier is carrying a by-now familiar cardboard object tucked under his arm, and the two of them are sporting mischievous grins that would make the Cheshire cat proud.]

Keiler: Oh, wonderful. All we needed was *that* lot showing their faces here.

Doyley: Agreed, James! This wrestling ragout has been downright flavorless so far, and Superiority Complex is exactly the pinch of spice it needed!

Keiler: Didn't catch the sarcasm, did you?

Doyley: Can't imagine what you mean.

[Fully conscious of the increasingly negative reaction their presence is stirring up, the notorious tandem known as Superiority Complex head down the aisle at a purposeful stride. Fans are pressing against the aisle side barricades, shouting and making angry gestures at Blasier and Jansen. This only eggs the men on, though. Reveling in the swelling hostility, they throw sideways grins and wave their hands as if they're the most popular men in the United Kingdom.]

Keiler: Blasier and Jansen have turned up in virtually every region of the Alliance for no discernible reason other than to sow chaos and senseless violence on other tag teams. But their issues with The Texas Outlaws are well-established, and it doesn't take much imagination to guess what they're up to tonight!

Doyley: Don't you think that being left off the card at a WWA pay-per-view event is reason enough for Superiority Complex to show up in protest? Some might say *they* should be challenging TTO for the World Tag Titles here.

Keiler: That's one opinion. And here's mine: these blokes are nothing but trouble.

[Thus far the wrestlers in the ring have remained oblivious to SC's appearance, but the fans are really giving the OCW duo an earful. Having reached the end of the aisle, Jansen and Blasier pause at ringside, and Blasier proceeds carefully, almost lovingly, to set up the infamous cardboard cutout of Pamela Duke-Jackson, holding "her" by the shoulders and adjusting its position until the standee is directly facing the ring. The cardboard cutout is wearing a new accessory tonight: a wrap skirt with a tartan pattern around its waist.]

Doyley: Brilliant, they've brought their valet to the Emerald Isle, too. And she looks lovelier than ever!

Keiler: Aren't these folks too old to be playing with dress-up dolls?

[In the time it takes SC to stand up their ubiquitous prop, their arrival has drawn the attention of Terry Norris and Bobby Blood. The action has stopped inside the ring as the Conspiracy are in their corner confused as the TTO are regrouping inside the ring. Provoked, TTO lean over the top rope and bark angrily down at Jansen and Blasier. Superiority Complex pretend to jump back in shock at the Texas Outlaws' outburst; but their smiles quickly return as they step up to flank "Pamela" on either side, posing to showcase the cardboard standee. Peering up at TTO, Blasier wags his eyebrows and points at the wrap skirt adorning the shapely waist of "Pamela", drawing their gaze toward it. Then, in one quick motion, he grabs an edge of the fabric and snaps it away.]

[Underneath, there is a conspicuous one-inch-wide hole cut through the crotch area of the standee.]

Keiler: You have got to be kidding me.

Doyley: Now it's *identical* to the real thing!

[As Blood and Norris stare on, paralyzed in shock and fury, Blasier once again gestures toward "Pamela's" nether regions. As if that's not good enough, he places his fingertip on the edge of the cut-out hole, slides his finger slowly along the curve. Jansen tugs theatrically at the collar of his shirt and fans his hand in front of his face, as if drying invisible sweat. In a loud voice meant to be heard by TTO, he says, "Man, that's hot!"]

Keiler: Utterly repugnant! Somebody get them out of here!

Doyley: Oh, come on! I think she likes it! She's smiling, anyhow.

Keiler: I'll tell you who's *not* smiling -- Norris and Blood! They look as if they're about to burst!

Doyley: Pamela is pissed as is Jackson over on this side.

[Blood, in fact, is making as if to storm through the ropes and go after Jansen and Blasier, but Norris grabs him by the arm and restrains him. A few heated words pass between them, as Norris tries to persuade his tag partner to ignore the distraction and keep his head in the match. After a moment it seems to get through to Blood, and with one last furious glare thrown down at SC, both members of TTO turn their attention back on the Conspiracy.]

Keiler: It seems they're going to try and keep their priorities straight.

[Blood walks back across the ring to his assigned corner as Norris and Dale lock up in the center of the ring. Neither man has a strong advantage, until Norris rakes the eyes of Dale.]

Keiler: Not a classy move but it's still effective.

[Norris pushes Dale back into the turnbuckles, before he Irish whips him across the ring into the other buckles. Charging in afterwards, Norris goes for a running clothesline. The problem is Dale moved and Norris went chest first into the top turnbuckle. Dale quickly reacts with a school boy rollup and grabs a handful of tights for good measure.]

1...

2...

[Norris powers out with his legs before the count of three.]

Doyley: Neither teams claims to be saints, James. If I remember correctly, you've bent a rule or two in your career.

Keiler: Yeah, but that is neither here nor there.

[Dale pulls Norris towards the Conspiracy corner and tags Ratigan in. Dale pulls Norris to his feet and hits a backbreaker. Holding the TTO member over his bent knee, Ratigan comes off the top rope with a guillotine leg drop. Dale stomps on Norris once before climbing out of the ring.]

Keiler: The Conspiracy has the momentum swung in their favor now. It looks like they're starting to act more like a team out there.

[Ratigan spits in the direction of Blood, drawing his ire. Blood climbs into the ring to get a piece of Ratigan, except he is cut off by the referee. As the referee tries to get Blood out of the ring, Ratigan takes the time to grab both of Norris' legs and drive a knee into his groin.]

Doyley: I feel bad for Mrs. Norris.

Keiler: I highly doubt Norris is even seeing anyone. He doesn't seem to like many people.

Keiler: Oh, what are these two idiots doing now?

Doyley: Looks to me like crowd interaction.

[Indeed, as The Texas Outlaws and the Conspiracy continue to pound each other to a pulp in the ring, the dastardly duo of Jansen and Blasier amuse themselves by standing at ringside, and exchanging banter with those in the front row. Jansen is gesturing toward "Pamela", pointing from one particular fan, to the cardboard figure, as Blasier stands at the side of his "lady", arm draped over her shoulder.]

Keiler: Are they doing what I think they’re doing?

Doyley: That depends.

Keiler: On?

Doyley: On what you think they’re doing.

Keiler: It appears as though...oh for Pete’s sake! They’re charging the fans in the front row to have their pictures taken with that stupid cardboard thing they’re lugging around.

Doyley: Really? Do you think they’d give me a discount since I work here?

Keiler: [rolling his eyes] Maybe.

[True to form, the duo has no repositioned "Pamela", so that her back is to the front row, and one particular male fan is standing up from his front row seat, arm around the cardboard cut out, and smiling. A few paces away from him, Jansen is thumbing through a few monetary bills, as Blasier holds a small, disposable camera up and is focusing it on the fan and "Pamela". A thumbs up from Blasier prompts the fan to stick his tongue out of a wide open mouth, screaming like an idiot as his photo is snapped.]

Keiler: These two really have no shame.

Doyley: You can’t condemn them from making a little money on the side. Maybe if the WWA had booked them at I-Wars, they wouldn’t have to do these little side jobs.

Keiler: Oh sod off.

[If Keiler isn’t enjoying their previous antics, he’ll likely be spitting curses now. Having milked a few dollars from a pair of ringside fans, the duo now reposition "Pamela", facing the ring. Blasier, motioning to one of the fans whose photograph they’d taken, is handed what appears to be a rolled up poster. In an action that causes those parents with small children in attendance to shield their kids’ eyes, Blasier then begins to rhythmically insert and withdraw the poster from "Pamela’s" crotch, drawing amused cheers and cat calls from some of the more inebriated men in the crowd, and a chorus of booing from everyone else.]

Keiler: This is downright disgusting! These two should be ashamed of themselves.

Doyley: Who are we to judge? Pamela seems to be enjoying it. Besides, Blasier seems to know what he’s doing.

[muttering under her breath] I wish my lover was as good.

Keiler: Kelly!

Doyley: What? Oh, sorry. My mind wandered there.

[Finally losing his cool, Sean Jackson storms his way around the ringside area towards Blasier and Jansen. Inside the ring, Ratigan has locked Norris in a Figure Four leglock.]

Keiler: Jackson is turning the corner and

WHAM!

Keiler: Jansen grabbed a chair and laid Jackson out! Now Blasier and Jansen are putting the boots to him.

Doyley: I knew this whole thing was going to blow up.

[Norris has escaped the Figure Four with a raking of Ratigan's eyes. Seeing the assault outside the ring, he struggles to roll outside the ring as Blood runs over. Just when we think we're going to see a huge fist fight...]

Keiler: Security and a swarm of officials have intervened here.

[We can see Blasier being ushered away from ringside, but not without "Pamela" under his arm. Norris and Blood are being held off, but Jansen is missing.]

Keiler: Where is Evan Jansen?

[Suddenly, Jansen stands up and is behind the officials holding Blood and Norris back. He flips them off and walks away. Norris tells Blood to return to the corner as he climbs back into the ring.]

Doyley: Blood just fell flat on his face!

[Blood is lying on the mat as Jansen apparently tied his boot laces together.]

Keiler: What a sneaky bastard!

[While Blood is struggling to untie his laces, Norris is picked up by Dale in a wheelbarrow position. Ratigan comes in quickly and hits a DDT at the same time Dale drives Norris downward.]

Keiler: The Conspiracy just hit the Power Trip!

[Dale covers Norris as Ratigan makes sure nobody interferes.]

1...

2...

3!!!

[The bell sound and the some of the crowd pops for the new champions.]

Harjinder: The winners of the match and NEW WWA World Tag Team Champions... TJ RATIGAN and DEACON DALE... THE CONSPIRACY!!!

[Dale gets to his feet and he and Ratigan are handed the title belts. Dale takes his belt and leaves the ring quickly as Ratigan follows suit a few moments later.]

Doyley: I can't believe we have new tag team champions!

Keiler: Pamela and Sean Jackson just got into the ring. Jackson's face is covered in blood as his forehead was split open by Jansen's chair shot earlier.

[Jackson and Duke-Jackson can't believe what just happened. Outside the ring, Blood has got his boots off and throws them down the aisle way in frustration. Sliding into the ring, he helps Norris to his feet, who can't believe he was just pinned.]

Keiler: The TTO are no longer World Tag Team Champions. They can't even believe it.

[A man comes running out of the bathroom. He looks mortified! He’s screaming for help.]

Man: “Somebody help! Somebody needs to get down in there quick.”

[The cameraman runs in, and stops abruptly. You can hear the cameraman break silence]

Cameraman: “Good god! What is that smell?”

[The sound off someone with terrible diarrhea is clearly audible. It goes on for quite some time. Also in the bathroom is Jim Beam, who is taking a whiz in the urinal. You can read his shirt clearly. It’s….a TTO shirt? He sees the camera.]

JB: “Guys, do you mind? I don’t want to scare the womenfolk.”

[The camera pans away to the sink. The following discussion can be heard.]

JB: “Man, how about a courtesy flush?”

JD: “Can’t man. Got to hold on with both hands.”

JB: “I told you about hanging out with that cousin of yours.”

JD: “Yeah, well. Jose is a good guy.”

JB: “I’m not sure the guy who just ran out of here with his eyes watering would agree.”

[Jim walks over to the sink and washes his hands.]

JB: “Dude, you about done? I don’t want to miss any of the good matches tonight.”

JD: ‘Yeah, I just need something to wipe with.”

[Jim reaches into a bag that’s sitting on the counter and pulls out a roll of toilet paper.]

JB: “Well, I’ve got a roll of Charmin quilted triple layer…”

JD: Yeah, but I’ve heard that it’s best not to squeeze the Charmin.”

[Jim thinks for a moment, and then takes his shirt off.]

JB: “And I’ve got a TTO WFWA tag team champions t-shirt.”

[Jack yells from the stall…..and Jim tosses the t-shirt in to him. There is a relieved sigh from the stall, and then a flush. Jack opens the door and walks over to Jim.]

JD: “And that’s all you need to know.”

[Camera fades as the two men walk out.]

[The scene opens in the backstage lobby of the Ravenhill Stadium. Various WWA superstars are gathered around. They all seem to be talking at the same time, making a very loud commotion in the room. Live Wire members Adrien and Dean are behind the table with a few bundles of cash in their hands. Adrien and Dean both stand on the table to maintain order.]

Adrien: (shouting) CAN WE HAVE YOUR ATTENTION, PLEASE!!??

[The room quiets very quickly.]

Dean: Welcome to “Live Wire’s International Wars Main Event Betting Table”. We are going to need to take your bets two people at a time, one at my side and one at Adrien’s side. So everyone please line-up in two single-file lines in front of the table. Anyone not in the lines will be refused service.

[Everyone moves around to get into two lines. Once the commotion subsides, Dean finishes his announcement.]

Dean: Ok. Thank you for your cooperation. I will now allow Adrien to go over the rules.

[Dean steps off the table.]

Adrien: Ok. We will only be accepting bets for the WWA World Heavyweight Title match between Thomas Bane and Khalid Jad. The minimum bet will be twenty dollars. . .

[Dean gets back on the table.]

Dean: . . . twenty dollars is equal to a bit more than ten pounds for my fellow Brits. . .

[Dean hops back off of the table. Adrien resumes speaking.]

Adrien: . . . thank you, Dean. So the minimum is twenty dollars or ten pounds. We will be accepting bets until the second the bell rings for the match to start. Pay off is one to two, which means you will get double what you bet on if your pick wins tonight. Ok, we will now begin accepting your bets.

[Adrien gets off the table. Both Adrien and Dean take their seats. Adrien and Dean were suddenly engulfed in the shadow of a large man. Actually, large would be an understatement. This guy was HUGE, especially from their vantage point of sitting down. Their eyes crept up the 7'4" 375 pound frame until they were looking directly into the icy blue eyes of former three-time WWA World Champion Victor Mandrake.]

Mandrake: Evening, gentlemen.

[Adrien snaps out of his shocked state. He finally replies to Mandrake.]

Adrien: Mr. Victor Mandrake, very nice to meet you. How much money would you like to place on whom . . . sir?

[Victor pauses.]

Mandrake: It's tough to say. Khalid Jad is a very spirited individual. Very determined, but burdened by the recent abduction of his sister. The distraction could prove to be his downfall. On the other hand, Thomas Bane has been plagued with terrible luck regarding the World Title. In fact, last time he had a chance to win it, Terry Woods came along and nearly took his head clean off with that baseball bat. So, do I go with the distracted individual or the seemingly cursed one?

[Adrien stands to think about it for a second.]

Adrien: Khalid Jad did just win the World title, and with that, I think he might be a bit over confident. Bane, however, still is somewhat of an underdog. I’m not sure, Mr. Mandrake. The choice is yours.

[Victor thinks to himself.]

Mandrake: Hmm. Underdogs have always appealed to me. There's always some sort of expectation on them to do the impossible. Though I wouldn't necessarily agree that he's the underdog, per se, I can follow your logic.

[Victor pulls out a huge wad of cash.]

Mandrake: Give me ten thousand on Mr. Bane.

[Adrien puts the bundles of hundred dollar bills in the safety deposit box behind him. He grabs a blank receipt and starts scribbling on it. Adrien’s facial expression can only be described as shocked by the immense bet placed by the former three-time WWA World Champion. Adrien signs the receipt and hands it to Mandrake.]

Adrien: Live Wire wishes you the best of luck with your bet. Have a great night!

Mandrake: You as well.

[Victor leaves the table and disappears around a corner. Dean turns to Adrien and whispers to him.]

Dean: Did he just hand you ten thousand dollars?

[Dean’s face lights up. Adrien has a big smile on his face.]

Adrien: Ten thousand all in Benjamin Franklins. Dude, if we keep this up, and a higher amount of money was placed on the loser, we will be rolling in dough.

Dean: You got that right. I think we should get back to these customers.

[Adrien and Dean turn back to the customers. Edward “The Hobo” White walks up to Dean. His faithful manager, Calabaza Del Demonio is right behind him. Dean has an almost disgusted look on his face, as if White had a putrid smell steaming from his body.]

Dean: Can I help you?

White: Yes, gimme a hundred on Khalid Jad.

[Dean quickly writes the necessary information on the receipt, signs it, and hands it to White, before White even puts the hundred dollars on the table. Dean places the hundred in the safety deposit box.]

Dean: Have a nice day! Live Wire thanks you for your service and wishes you the best of luck.

[Adrien gets a can of air freshener and sprays it around the table. Python walks up to Adrien’s side of the table.]

Adrien: Well, well, well, look who it is!

[Python smiles. Adrien and Python shake hands.]

Python: Hey, man. How have things been going?

Adrien: Great, bro. I caught your match a little while ago. I am very impressed. So, who are you placing your bet on?

[Python puts a few hundreds on the table. Adrien counts it.]

Adrien: Okay, who are you putting one thousand on?

[Python thinks for a second.]

Python: My green’s on Jad. He’s the man right now . . . I doubt he’ll be letting me down.

[Adrien, who seems to already have placed the money in the box and filled out the receipt, smiles. He hands the receipt to Python.]

Adrien: Live Wire thanks the Greatest WWA Double Crown Champion in history for his service. We wish you the best of luck tonight. Rock on, bro!

[Python shakes hands with Adrien again. Suddenly, the Executive Director of the AWA Marc Hightower approaches Dean Hobkirk’s side of the table.]

Hightower: Hello, boys.

[Adrien and Dean exchange worried looks. Dean speaks up to his boss.]

Dean: Yes, boss?

[Hightower gives Dean a stern look.]

Hightower: Are you two running a gambling facility during a WWA sponsored event?

[Adrien and Dean look at each other again with worried facial expressions.]

Dean: Um . . . yes.

[Hightower smiles and throws a bundle of cash on the table.]

Hightower: I’ll put two thousand on Bane.

[Dean smiles. Adrien takes the money and places it in the safety deposit box. Dean hands Marc Hightower his receipt.]

Hightower: You boys better stay out of trouble.

Dean: We will. Live Wire thanks you for your participation. Good luck and have a nice day.

[Adrien looks at Dean.]

Adrien: Well, that was a close one.

[Adrien looks at the crowded room and shouts.]

Adrien: Is there anyone else that wants to place a bet?

[There is no response.]

Adrien: Hmmm, maybe that’s all we got tonight.

[As Adrien and Dean start discussing the main event, a wad of cash is thrown down on the table in front of them. The loud sound snaps their attention forward...]

[And on Sean Jackson.]

Jackson: "I'm putting five thousand on the Al Qaeda guy..."

[Before either has a chance to say anything...]

Jackson: And if we're lucky, maybe Bane will fall victim to a good old fashioned suicide bombing tonight.

[Now smiling, he takes his receipt from Adrien and walks away. Adrien puts the money in the deposit box.]

Adrien: Well, that was nice.

[Dean’s jaw drops.]

Dean: Uh-oh.

[Adrien turns to see what Dean’s looking at. A few more, around twenty, more superstars formed new lines in front of Adrien and Dean respectively. Adrien smiles and puts his arm around his awe-stricken friend.]

Adrien: Business is booming tonight.

[Adrien and Dean both begin working with the people in front of them as the scene closes.]

With the clock ticking down to Bane versus Jad, a still upset Sean Jackson is seen walking around the dressing room area. He tried his best to put Bane out of professional wrestling, even managing to injure him for a few weeks. But despite everything, he will still have to watch Bane go after world title gold...

And he's not taking it very well.

Jackson: "What is wrong with these idiots?"

Sean stops walking, the look of disgust consuming him.

Jackson: "Just because he was a big deal in the NWA, does NOT make him a big deal here. That world heavyweight title shot should have been mine..."

He looks up towards the heavens.

Jackson: (screaming) "I'M NOT SOME PISSANT FOR YOU TO PLAY WITH!!!"

He shakes a fist, presumably at God himself.

Jackson: "YOU WILL SHOW ME RESPECT!!!"

He stops shaking his fist, and clenches it tightly.

Jackson: "THAT I CAN PROMISE YOU!!!"

At that moment, one of the ring workers walks up to him. He is obviously concerned over Sean's screaming.

Worker: "Hey, are you alright?"

Startled, Sean turns around and grabs him by the throat. Pushing the worker against the wall, he then stands nose to nose with him.

Jackson: "Who in the hell do you think you are? You think that just because you set up wrestling rings, you can just walk up on ME?"

Struggling from the grip of Sean's grasp, the ring worker desperately tries to ease the situation.

Worker: "I...I...wa...wasn't *hack, hack* wasn't trying..."

Jackson: "SHUT UP!!!"

The grip gets tighter.

Jackson: "Thomas Bane might make his match tonight, but I'm far from finished with him. He might have the WWA fooled, but he hasn't fooled me, not at all. When the time is right, I'll have Thomas Bane right where I want him."

Sean releases the grip, allowing the ring worker to fall to the ground. The man starts gasping for air right away as he crawls on all fours. As the air slowly makes its way into his lungs, he is able to sit up on his knees. He looks up, allowing the air to move more freely into his lungs.

Worker: "Dude, what's wrong with you?"

He doesn't see Sean walking up behind him. As he prepares to stand, he has no clue that Sean has a steel folding chair in his clutches.

Jackson: "What's wrong with me?"

The ring worker turns around just in time to see the chair coming down at his skull.

BAM!!!!

The guy drops like a rock, as does the chair.

Jackson: "You're not Thomas Bane."

He then walks away, spitting in the direction of the ring worker as the scene shifts to the ringside area.

[Backstage minutes before the Main Event, Thomas Bane walks at a fast pace down the halls of Ravenhill Stadium. Something to the left catches his eye and causes him to stop and backtrack a few steps. He carefully reads the name on the gold plate: “Khalid Jad”. With a shrug he turns the knob, enters, and sees the current World Champion for the first time in person. Khalid looks up, breaking his visualizations of the match.]

Bane: [Extending a palm] “Thomas.”

[Khalid accepts with in a firm handshake.]

Jad: “Khalid. It's nice to finally meet you.”

Bane: “Same here. You nervous?”

Jad: “A little.”

[Thomas smiles and gently pats his new acquaintance on the back. The friendly action allows Khalid Jad’s lips to curve slightly upwards.]

Bane: “Don’t worry, so am I. After headlining the first big event, future ones get a little easier. You know what always makes me calm?

[Jad shakes his head.] I watch an episode or two of Desperate Housewives during the lull time.”

[Khalid isn’t familiar with the title, which causes him to frown.]

Bane: “It’s this television series. Good looking women…and men, if you like that kind of stuff.”

Jad: “I’m not sure about doing that before a match.”

[Thomas Bane nods.]

Bane: “Well, you shouldn’t be bottled up in your locker room the entire event. Get out, watch a match or meet some people during the next one. At Shockwave, I met a loud mouth named Tron who almost shot up the joint. Not to mention the fact that I caught a glimpse of a talking penguin.”

Jad: [With enthusiasm] “A talking penguin?”

Bane: “Yeah, that’s what I thought. It was pretty incredible.”

Jad: “I think I’ll take your advice for the next one. I wouldn’t mind seeing that penguin.”

[Thomas checks his watch and takes a deep breath.]

Bane: “We’re on. I go out first. Let’s put on a show the fans will remember for the rest of their lives.”

[Both men confidently nod. Thomas turns and makes his way to exit the room…]

Jad: “Hey Thomas.”

Bane: [Turning] “What’s up?”

Jad: “Good luck.”

[Thomas smiles.]

Bane: “Good luck to you, friend.”

“Ladies and gentlemen...”

“It is time for the main event of the evening.”

[Raucous cheering.]

“This next match is scheduled for one fall, with no time limit. There MUST be a winner.”

[Even more raucous cheering.]

“This is the World Wrestling Alliance's World Heavyweight Championship match!”

[Jesus pop.]

[The lights go out.]

[The fans hush, as the announcer-man licks his lips, and brings the microphone to his lips. Eyes flicked upward, toward the entryway ramp. Don't want to jump the gun, really...]

["Never Forget Where I'm from" by Justin plays on the PA system, breaking the momentary lull.]

[Spotlights angled just right to illuminate the entrance turn on. After a few seconds of stillness, the curtains part and a figure steps out from the back. Upon recognition of Thomas Bane, the crowd erupts into a passionate frenzy. Thomas Bane is short and toned; he has short wavy brown hair, brown eyes, and a handsome face. He is wearing green wrestling tights that cut off just below the knee. Running down his right pant leg, in white text, is the word Bane. On the edge of his right front knee is the Hawaiian flag.]

[Thomas Bane examines the crowd for a moment longer before walking down to the ring.]

Harjinder: Heading to the ring ... He weighs in at 235 pounds... Hailing from Honolulu, Hawaii... The challenger to the World Champion…THOMAAAAAAAAAAS BAAAAAAAAANE!!

[Thomas Bane takes the time to shake the hands with many of his fans. As he comes to the ring, he pauses to look around one last time. After he allows his emotions to sink in, he takes a big breath and slides through the bottom-most rope. Thomas greets the referee with a handshake and calmly awaits the beginning of the biggest match in his career.]

[The fans chant his name. BANE~! BANE~! BANE~! Over and over, they chant his name, telling him just how much they love the Hawaiian challenger. He smiles softly, eyes flicking up to his fans, who are chanting for him so happily, after so much else has happened in this night.]

“Coming next to the ring...”

[The fans hushed, for the briefest of moments, before the hard-guitar intro of “Control” blasted over the speakers, one of the few hits that rock band Puddle of Mudd had. The fans began to scream their little hearts out, as the WWA World Champion, Khalid Jad, appeared from between the curtains. Arms pumping, the gold glinting around his waist.]

“Weighing in at two hundred, twenty five pounds, standing five foot eleven...”

[Jad flies down the ramp like a man on fire, slides under the bottom rope deftly, and gets to his feet in one fluid motion. Eying Bane for a moment, Jad crosses to the closest ring corner, mounting the ropes. Climbing to the second turnbuckle, Jad closes his eyes, throwing his arms into the air, hands clenching into fists. Knuckles whitened, as he stood, flashbulbs illuminating him as he stood above the ring. The golden WWA title, the title that meant the most of anything to so many, over the years, flashed and glinted in the light of the camera flashes. From Eric Dane to Mike Bell to Victor Mandrake, back to Dark Wolf, Aerius Hyrule, Ryan Corey, CJ Rowel, Ulfric, Crippler, man after man who had put everything on the line to get, and hold, that belt. The history of the title stretched back further than just about anything could, in the turbulent world of professional wrestling. And it all came to a head tonight, with the World Champion, Khalid Jad, who had pinned Christian Light, where it seemed nobody else could.]

“He is YOUR WORLD WRESTLING ALLIANCE WOOOOOOORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION...”

[And the challenger, Thomas Bane, was on the verge. He could either win tonight, or face the shame of choking three times, likely to never get a shot at the title again.]

“KHALIIIIIIIIIIID JAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAD~!”

[After a count of five, Jad dismounts from the turnbuckle, and faces Bane, flexing the muscles of his arms in various stretching exercises, trying to work out the last few bits of stress and tension holding tight to his arms. As Bane eyed Jad, and Jad eyed Bane, the two men sizing one another up, checking for the burning spirit that would drive the other man, inspecting for the killer instinct that would be assaulting themselves in the next few minutes, watching for that zanshin that would shape the framework of this match.]

[The bell rang, the title being taken from Jad, and brought over to Bane. The referee held it out before the challenger, ensuring that he knew this match was for that prize. Hesitantly, Thomas Bane glanced up at Khalid Jad, and reached out, fingertips placing gently on the cool, glittering gold. He gave the smallest hint of a smile, before nodding to the referee.]

[The referee-man raised the title belt over his head, the fans cheering for the match about to go down like the crazy little Euro wrestling fans they were. Jad and Bane began to circle, as the referee handed the title belt to the timekeeper. Eying one another, like lions on the prowl, Jad and Bane watched one another for that slightest move that could send the other in just the way to try for a quick advantage.]

[And just like that, they locked up.]

Keiler: “We're starting this match off slow, and methodical, folks! Both Jad and Bane want to use their minds, and not try to just bull-rush into things!”

Doyley: “Bo-ring. I want BLOOD!”

[Or maybe, just maybe, Bane had been waiting for Jad to think this would be a grapple-fest. As they locked up, trying to out-grab one another, Bane shot his head forward, the two men's skulls cracking together with the sound of someone dropping a bowling ball. Forehead to forehead, both men winced, but it wasn't until the second head butt that Bane was able to stagger Jad back just the slightest hint of a half step.]

Keiler: “Bane with a set of head butts! He's not going for the soft, breakable nose, though! I think he just wants to prove his toughness, and try to get Jad to be stunned!”

Doyley: “I like a man with that ruthless streak, though! Hurt himself to hurt his opponent! Ooh, I'm all squirmy!”

[Bane ducked under Jad's arm, the champ's eyes rolling in their sockets, as Jad tried to regain his composure. Bane's arms flexed, wrapping around Jad's waist swiftly, and firmly. Hoisting the slightly smaller man up with a grunt, Bane arched his back, legs shooting out from under him after a few moments. Jad's back slammed to the mat, Bane holding onto the waistlock still. Already trying for a pin, Bane put his feet back on the mat, and arched, pushing up off the mat for a Northern Lights suplex. The ref dove in.]

Keiler: “Only a one count! Jad isn't anywhere near stunned enough to get a three count yet!”

Doyley: “Well, I may not think that Bane or Jad are manly enough to really hang with some other folks, but they're showing a bit of ferocity! Look at Jad struggling out of the waistlock! He wants to throw down!”

[And indeed, Jad had come to his feet, tearing free of Bane's grasp. Rolling away, his knees, Jad's eyes narrowed some. This was a threat to his title that he could not brook. He had to put Bane away, and limit his offense quickly, or risk losing his Big Gold Title. And BGTs came with a lot of money. And money was good. Money bought things.]

[So, as Bane came back to his feet, quickly coming toward Jad, Jad threw up his arms to try for another lockup. Bane and Jad struggled for the briefest of moments, before Bane shoved Jad back, pushing him into the corner, where Bane began throwing forearms, over and over, slamming his mighty arm into Jad's chest, trying to drive the air from the rookie wrestler's lungs.]

Keiler: “Bane solidly in control, at the moment!”

Doyley: “He almost has been since the opening bell. Jad seems to need some time until he can really get his motor going!”

[At least, that was the case until Bane grabbed a hold of the middle ropes, seeming to be about to go for a set of shoulder blocks. Jad dropped to the mat, one leg braced firmly in front of Bane's shins, the other kicking Bane in the back of the knees. Thus surprised, Bane pitched forward, bouncing his forehead off the second turnbuckle. Jad scrambled out of the ring, dropping to the mat, as Bane fell to the mat, hands pressing to his forehead.]

Keiler: “Drop toehold from Jad, and he's reversed the momentum! This could be just what Jad needs to try and regain control!”

Doyley: “Go Jad! Bust Bane open with the turnbuckles!”

[Jad grabbed Bane behind the head and by the arm, and dragged him swiftly from the ring, onto the apron. The toned young Arab slipped his arms around Bane, scooping him up onto his shoulder. Turning, Jad laid Bane down, his knees hooked over the top of the steel guardrail, Bane left upside down, hanging from the guardrail. Waving his hands, the WWA champion shooed the fans backward, away from the fallen challenger.]

Keiler: “I don't know what Jad is doing here, but he's hung Bane in a tree of woe on the outside...”

Doyley: “I hope to see a barbed wire bat be pulled out here!”

[Climbing onto the apron, Jad slipped under the top, into the ring. Turning, Jad raised his hands skyward, eyes flicking toward the roof for a moment, before he grabbed securely to the top rope. Pulling backwards, Jad leapt to the top, then springboarded off! Turning in mid-air, Jad slammed chest-first into Bane's chest, sandwiching the challenger between a flying Khalid and the steel guardrail!]

Keiler: “Cross body block! Jad with a springboard cross body to a Tree of Woe'd Thomas Bane!”

Doyley: “Nice! I can already smell the herniated vertebrae!”

[Jad rolled away, pushing himself up to his feet. Grabbing Bane, Jad tugged him up, and shoved Bane back against the already-bent guardrail that they had both just impacted. Leaning back over the top of it, Bane groaned, before Jad grabbed a hold of the top, and began to stomp, hammering deep into Bane's stomach. From the impacts of the boots, it seemed like Khalid Jad, WWA champion, was trying to kick through Thomas Bane's stomach.]

[Grabbing a hold of Bane's head, Jad rolled Bane back into the ring, and stood. Wiping a hand over his bare forehead, Jad scooped Bane's legs up, hooking them over the top rope. Stepping out, onto the apron, Jad grabbed onto Bane's ankles, and stepped through the ropes with just his feet, stepping through Bane's armpits. Hooking his arms around the challenger's ankles, Jad suddenly leaned back, feet coming mostly off the ground! Now just suspended by Thomas Bane's ankles, held from falling by Thomas Bane's armpits, the middle rope, and of course, those knees that ALL of this stress was focused on, Jad hung from Bane's legs, trying to hurt those knees, take them out of commission, to keep Bane from being able to use ANY of his big moves!]

Keiler: “What a submission that is! It's like... a rope-assisted Boston Crab! All of the weight of Khalid Jad is hanging directly from Thomas Bane's knees!”

Doyley: “Yeah, but the ref is already counting to five... And Jad is breaking the hold, because he's a nice guy or something...”

[Indeed, Jad let go of the hold, like the nice guy he was... But not too nice. Grabbing onto those ankles, Jad stepped off the apron, yanking them against the top rope as he dropped to the floor below. Sliding in under the bottom rope, Jad came to his feet, pushing Bane off of the ropes. Bane collapsed to the mat, and Jad began to stomp away, trying to wear the big Hawaiian down, before he tried for something else.]

[As Bane began to push himself up, unwilling to say die, Jad hit the ropes opposite Bane. As Bane came to his knees, and looked up... He looked right into a pair of flying boots. Jad impacted Bane with a flying dropkick, damn near kicking the big Hawaiian out of the ropes, to the floor again, but Bane ended up just sitting in the ropes, head bowed, sitting on the bottom rope, neck pressed to the second rope, trying to shake the cobwebs from his head.]

Keiler: “Running dropkick, directly to Bane's face! He almost took a tumble to the floor!”

Doyley: “Jad's showing a real ruthless streak, not wanting to let Bane get a minute to get back together and possibly turn the tide!”

[Jad slipped out onto the apron, and as Bane sat, Jad reared back, soccer kicking Bane directly in the back! Bane dropped out of the ropes, to his knees, face contorted in pain! Fingers clawed, Bane knee-walked forward a pace, before dropping to his stomach, hands clapped to his back in agony. Jad just grabbed a hold of that top rope, and springboarded over the top, falling back-first directly on Bane's back! Rolling forward and away, Jad came to his feet, as Bane buried his face in the ring canvas!]

Keiler: “Jad with a kick, and a slingshot senton, and Bane looks like he's in a BRUTAL amount of pain!”

Doyley: “I'm starting to like this guy! All this attacking the back and knee, and Jad's looking more and more like he's going to retain, tonight!”

[Jad turned, waiting for Bane to get up, and obligingly, Bane already was stirring, trying to force himself back to his feet. He didn't want to stay down, didn't want to quit. Everything, EVERYTHING was on the line, here! As Jad crouched, waiting for Bane to rise, Bane growled, forcing himself to his knees, eyes flicking up to Jad.]

[However, Jad wasn't waiting there pointlessly. As Bane looked up, Jad fired off a kick, slamming his shin into the side of Bane's head!]

Keiler: “What a kick!”

Doyley: “Almost took his head off!”

[Bane didn't go down.]

[Jad reared back, and fired off a second kick!]

[Bane didn't go down.]

Keiler: “A second one! Bane's not letting himself fall, although it looks like the lights are flickering behind the eyes!”

Doyley: “He's either touched in the head or about as stubborn as a mule!”

[As Jad reared back, Bane roared, and leapt forward, shoulder slamming into Jad's stomach. As Jad's eyes went wide, he tried throwing some forearms into Bane's back, but the challenger would not be denied! Hammering a forearm into Jad's jaw, over and over, Bane grabbed Jad by the face, bouncing his head off the mat!]

Keiler: “There's been a fire lit under Thomas Bane! He will NOT be denied!”

[Bane grabbed Jad by the hair, pulling him up, to a sitting position. Hooking the champion's head, Bane reached down, eyes wide. Underhooking Khalid's right arm, Bane took a step back, and popped the hips, hoisting Khalid Jad to his feet, and then, upward! Holding the single underhook suplex, Bane balanced Jad precariously, eyes slowly narrowing more and more, before Bane's eyes went wide, and the two dropped, Jad slamming headfirst into the mat, Bane crumpling!]

Doyley: “Look! I think Bane's knee gave out on him!”

Keiler: “Maybe, but Bane still held that delayed single underhook suplex for a good amount of time, letting the blood rush to Jad's head, and then nailed that brainbuster!”

Doyley: “Maybe, but did Bane stun Jad enough to get a pin, or did he do more damage to himself?”

[Bane turned, hooking Jad's leg, and rolling over, trying to fold the WWA Champion in half. Desperately trying to hold the pin as tightly as he could, Bane squeezed his eyes shut as the referee dove in, heart all a-twitter.]

Keiler: “ONE!”

[Extra spacing for dramatic effect.]

[Space.]

[Space.]

Doyley: “TWO~!”

[Space space space awfuckit]

Keiler: “NO! JAD KICKS OUT!”

[Bane pounded a fist into the mat, shaking his head in irritation, as Jad rolled to his stomach, to prevent a second pin attempt. Burning gaze roving to Jad, Bane crawled to the champion. Swiftly hooking the leg, Bane reached up, torquing the arm, and trying for the facelock! The Arab's hands came up, grabbing at Bane's right hand, to keep from locking the STF in!]

Keiler: “Bane trying for the Bane of your Existence! Jad trying to fight free!”

Doyley: “Can Bane hold the STF on with his knees all banged up?”

[Jad grabbed the wrist and forearm, slowly forcing the challenger's arm away, shakily. Bane growled, trying to close the gap, but Jad forced the arm away, and rolled. Shoving Bane off, Jad scrambled to his feet, fists clenched. As Thomas came shakily to his feet, fists coming up, Jad took a step back. Both men eyed one another, and just like at the beginning, they began to circle, staring each other down.]

[Bane stepped forward, and Jad dashed forward, ducking a right hand. Hitting the ropes, Jad turned, dashing back at Bane. Bane swung with his right elbow, spinning around as he did, only for Jad to duck again. As Bane straightened, Jad leapt up, arms wrapping around Bane's left arm. Legs wrapped around the right, and Jad leaned forward, then SNAPPED back, Bane being bodily yanked from his feet, and spiked headfirst into the mat, with a Crucifix Driver! Jad held onto the arms, rolling Bane fully onto his shoulders, as the ref dove in!]

Keiler: “ONE!”

[EXCESSIVE NUMBER OF SPACES]

Doyley: “TWO!”

[OMFG DRAMA]

Keiler: “BANE KICKED OUT! BANE KICKED OUT!”

[Jad sat back, on his knees, hands clenched in his hair in irritated disbelief. Lip curling in frustration, Jad came to his feet. Grabbing Bane's right foot, Jad began to stomp away at the back of Bane's knee, over and over, trying to throw the delicate internal workings of the knee out of whack. As Bane clutched at his knee, trying to pull free, Jad threw the Hawaiian's leg to the side, and began stomping at Bane's stomach and lower chest, over and over, hammering the point home that he is the champion, and he's not losing his title anytime soon...]

[Well, Thomas Bane had something to say about that. As Jad stomped away, Bane grabbed the Champ y the foot, and yanked, picking the ankle and rolling, hoisting Jad off his feet, slamming to the mat face-first, by his own body weight! Bane wrapped his legs around Jad's, at the knee, and Bane began to twist and wrench at that ankle, a grapevine anklelock making life hell for the champion!]

Keiler: “ANKLELOCK!”

Doyley: “Where did THAT come from?!”

[Bane scooted back, closer to the ring ropes, ankle lock hooked in securely. As Bane wrenched and twisted, Jad buried his face in his arm, trying to scrabble for the ring ropes with his other, not wanting to get locked in this for more than a few moments, or it could spell the end for his title reign! Bane kept twisting and yanking, trying to force Jad to give up, so that Bane could walk away with a win, but Jad refused to quit! Eventually, Jad crawled to the ring ropes, and Bane threw the ankle down in irritation, not willing to try to dislocate his opponent's ankle.]

[As Bane struggled to his feet, and Jad crawled to his feet, one favoring his knees, one favoring his ankles, the two men turned to face one another, and as soon as they caught the other's eye... The two started throwing punches, over and over, hammering the other in the face, with rights and lefts. Bane began forcing Jad back, and so Jad redoubled his efforts.]

[Jad began throwing elbows, vicious, clubbing elbows, that hammered Bane in the jaw, staggering him, and forcing Bane backwards. Bane was caught by surprise... But not for long. Bane began throwing forearms, hammering Jad's jaw and cheek and forehead, over and over. Jad stumbled back, and Bane took the advantage to hook Jad in a chestlock, before popping the hips, throwing Jad overhead with a mighty toss.]

Keiler: “BELLY TO BELLY!”

[Bane struggled back up, as Jad lay there, eyes wide, trying to clear the mental fog. As Bane grabbed Jad by the hair, Jad shook his head, as if in disbelief. The Arab was pulled to his feet, and herded over to the ring corner. Hoisting Jad up onto the top, Bane slowly, painfully climbed up to the top with him. Hooking the head, then hoisting the arm over his neck, Bane paused on the top rope, the two men standing there. Looking over the arena with sad eyes, Bane gritted his teeth, and popped the hips.]

Doyley: “THE ENTIRE RING JUST SHOOK!”

Keiler: “Superplex! What a superplex! Both men are down!”

Doyley: “The superplex does a lot of damage to your opponent... But a lot to you, at the same time!”

[Bane and Jad lay, sucking in great gulps of the air in the arena. Jad's eyes were squeezed shut, Bane pressing his hands to his eyes. However... Thomas Bane was the first back up to his feet, and surprisingly, Bane didn't even bother going for a pin attempt.]

[Instead, Bane helped Jad back up, shoving the Arab into the ring corner. Hoisting the other up to the top, again, Bane sat Jad on the top rope. It looked like he was going to go for two superplexes, and THEN try for the pin, just to ensure Jad was put away! Bane hammered Jad in the temple twice, before he began to climb.]

[That two-shot wasn't enough to keep Jad dazed, apparently, though, as Jad began firing off right hand after right hand to Bane's ribs, staggering the Hawaiian. Jad reached up, grabbing Bane by the hair, and hammering a knee directly into Bane's face! Bane straightened, for a second, blinking dazedly... Before he fell off the second turnbuckle, to the mat.]

Keiler: “Jad with the knee! Bane's down, Jad's on top! This could be all!”

Doyley: “Bane took too long to set up the twin superplexes, and now it's biting him in the ass!”

[Jad slipped to the top rope, favoring his ankle... As Bane lay on the mat, Jad balanced himself, then leapt off in a forward flip! Coming down hard with the small of his back, directly on Bane's stomach, with that move called the Life's Redemption!]

Keiler: “Redemption! The Life's Redemption! Khalid Jad hits his favored move!”

Doyley: “And he's quick to hook the leg, too!”

[The referee dove in.]

Keiler: “ONE!”

Doyley: “TWO!”

Keiler: “TH... NO! NO! BANE KICKED OUT! NO PINFALL!”

[Somehow, someway, miraculously, Thomas Bane forced a shoulder up at 2.999999..., which, coincidentally, does not mathematically equal 3.]

[And Khalid Jad did not know what to do, at this point.]

[Pulling Bane roughly to his feet, Jad began to fire off kicks, to the side, to the shin, to the thigh, to the stomach... Bane doubled over, from a boot to the gut, and Jad began to fire forearms into Bane's back, a right, a left, a right, a left... Jad looked like someone throwing a tantrum and beating on the object of his hate, which is exactly what Thomas Bane was. Jad wanted this win, and now, what would he do to keep Bane down?!]

[Jad hooked Bane's neck, and threw the arm over his head, hooking Bane for a suplex. Popping the hips, Jad hoisted Bane into the air... Partially. Some of the way up. Bane threw out his legs, though, keeping Jad from being able to get Bane all the way up, and Bane's feet came back down to the mat. Retightening his hold, Jad tried again, popping the hips, and hoisting Bane up.]

[Or, at least, trying to. Bane threw out his legs again, screwing up Jad's momentum once more. As Bane came back down this time, he twisted, turning the two of them completely over. Jad turned, and dropped, falling directly on Bane's shoulder, for a swift twisting neckbreaker!]

Keiler: “Bane reverses! Bane reverses! Suplex turned into a neckbreaker! Bane just got the mistake he needed, but can he capitalize?!”

Doyley: “If he doesn't, he may not get another shot!”

[Bane forced himself up, shaking a fist by his side as he bulled through the pain. One leg shook as he came to his feet, forcing himself to remain upright. His knees had taken a beating, but the adrenaline was flowing, his pulse was flying, and Thomas Bane was alive, dammit!]

[Khalid Jad came to his feet, and Thomas reached out, trying for the lockup... But Jad fired back, like a raging Al Pacino! Rights and lefts, to the face, jaw, neck, chest, and stomach! Kicks to the knees, especially the one Jad had seen shaking! A stamping kick, directly to the gut! Bane doubled over, and Jad leapt into the air, kicking Thomas Bane in the temple! As he landed, Jad planted both hands on the mat, and donkey-kicked, hammering Bane in the gut with both feet!]

Keiler: “A flurry from Jad! He won't let Bane hook those suplexing mitts on him! He will not allow it, and so he'll do anything to keep Bane from getting a suplex on him!”

Doyley: “Bane's opportunity is gone, like dust in the wind...”

[Jad took a step forward, going for a grab to the bent over Bane... But Bane lashed out, firing with a knee! It struck home, and Jad doubled over, his face a mask of agony! The knee had slammed somewhere valuable, and as Jad nearly dropped to his knees, legs together, arms over his stomach, Bane grabbed Jad's head, hooking it under his right arm!]

Keiler: “I think Bane accidentally may have kneed Jad in the crotch!”

Doyley: “YEAH! Now THIS is my kind of fight! Come on, Bane, hit him in the balls again!”

[Bane reached out, hooking the right leg. Hoisting Jad up ever so slightly, Bane dropped to his back, spiking Khalid Jad headfirst into the mat, with that cradle DDT!]

[Rolling Jad onto his shoulders, Bane held onto the knee, keeping Jad bent over for the pin attempt! The referee slid in.]

Keiler: “ONE!”

[Unnecessary amount of spaces. Drama's important.]

Keiler: “TWO!”

[Seriously. Dramallama. Come on.]

Keiler: “THREE! THREE! THREE!”

Doyley: “NO!!! Jad’s foot is on the ropes!!!”

Keiler: “Unbelievable!! Jad just will NOT quit!!”

[Bane is in as much disbelief as Keiler. He gets to his feet and pulls Jad up with him. Bane whips Jad into the ropes and brings him up and over with a hip toss.]

[SMACKAGE~!]

Doyley: “Bane just hip-tossed Jad right into the referee!!”

Keiler: “You think that was intentional?”

Doyley: “I don’t think so, because Bane’s got that look on his face that you get right after you know you did something wrong and your Mom’s going to ground you.”

[And indeed, Thomas did have that “Oh shit!” look on his face. Bane decided to keep on going with the match, perhaps hoping that with all the bouncing and slamming, the ref would wake up.]

[However, that was not needed as another man in a zebra suit zipped down the ramp to a chorus of boos.]

Keiler: “Who the hell?”

Doyley: “It’s Eric Dane!!”

Keiler: “Dear God, why?!?”

Doyley: “He’s officiating the match!”

Keiler: [sarcastic] “Ooo boy!”

[Dane slides into the ring, then gives a smirk to an incredulous looking Thomas Bane. He stands there for a moment, not knowing what to think of the situation. Not missing a beat, Dane points to the turnbuckle behind Bane. Thomas turns around to meet the current World Champion flying through the air.]

Keiler: “MISSILE DROPKICK BY JAD!”

Doyley: “Bane didn’t even see that coming!!”

[Bane falls to the mat, and Jad takes advantage of the situation. Khalid picks Bane up, and whips him into the ropes, tying him up and snapping him back with a suplex.]

Doyley: “Jad has his momentum back. Bane could be in trouble now.”

[Jad lifts Bane back up again, and goes for another Irish whip. Bane reverses and levels Jad with a clothesline. Bane goes for the desperation pin.]

[El Spacerino.]

Keiler: “Oh come on, Jad’s not going to lose to a simple-”

[What starts with a D, ends in an A, and has a RAM in between?]

ONETWOTHREE~!!

Keiler: “…clothesline?”

DING DING DING!!

Doyley: “BANE’S THE NEW CHAMP!!! DANE FAST-COUNTED JAD OUT!”

Keiler: “WHAT?!?”

[The crowd erupts in a cacophony of boos.]

Harjinder: Your winner, and NEW WWA WORLD CHAMPION….THOMAS BAAAANNNNEEEE~~!!!

Keiler: “This is not how Bane wanted to win the World Title. At all.”

[Thomas Bane is glaring at Eric Dane, who just gives him a wink, flashes a grin, and walks to the back of the arena. Bane throws his arms up in frustration, as Khalid Jad gets back to his feet, in just as much disbelief as Bane.]

Doyley: “And it’s certainly not how Khalid wanted to lose. His title reign began in controversy, and now it’s ended the same. This isn’t going to sit well with Jad at all.”

[Bane apologized to Jad, who simply put a hand up, exited the ring, and grabbed the World Title.]

Keiler: “He’s not going to clock Bane with that, is he?”

Doyley: “Doubtful. We’re not that lucky.”

[Jad took the belt and handed it to Thomas Bane. Bane took it from Jad, as he extended his other hand to Bane. In friendship, and respect.]

[The two joined hands, and Jad squeezed Bane's hand, smiling. The crowd exploded into cheers. Over the roar of the crowd, Jad spoke.]

“I'll be coming back for a shot at that.”

[And Bane gave the slightest, almost imperceptible nod. He knew. But for tonight, Thomas Bane was the WWA World Heavyweight Champion.]

[Jad turned, throwing Bane's hand high. Bane threw the other hand high, the golden title belt dangling from its leather strap, as the fans cheered and chanted. The title was on a new waist, and all of a sudden, a whole bunch of men found a new target to want to destroy, a target that Eric Dane had already found and helped make.]

[But that'd come another day. For tonight, Thomas Bane was the Champ.]

Judging Credits:
OCW Women's Heavyweight Title Match: Tim Lennox
WCWA Gold Rush Title Match: Vince Webb
WR Emerald Isle Title Match: Col Fisher
OLW Heavyweight Title Match: Jeff Andrews
AWA Winner Takes All Title Match: Ryan Matthews
Rite of Passage Elimination Match: Matt Shearer
The Summit Finals Match: Chris Gipson
WWA Double Crown Title Match: Brian Paolercio
WWA Tag Team Title Match: Col Fisher
WWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Matt Shearer