Lightning crashes and the blank screen blasts into life, depicting washed-out, jerky flashes of the GEW roster in action. A thunderous beat bounces back and forth, accompanied by a grinding guitar riff.
We could blame the world forever
We could just escape together
Reflected in the silver sheen of the Commonwealth Cup Trophy, flickers of the matches seen so far in the tournament.
So are we breaking out or are we breaking down?
We can't blame this world forever
This world forever
Images of Bucky Skyler defeating Cammy Carnage and Maximus_Ordicus, Scott Simmonds besting Maria Giordano and Tony Harrison, and Dwight Mare getting revenge on The Engineer and then upsetting Magnum.
The end will never come
There's still a mountain left to climb
But we will overcome the hurdles placed inside our minds
A lingering shot of Dwight's handsome smile as he poses for the cheering fans.
So close but still so far
Each day will bring us a brand new stars
Scott Simmonds flexing at the entranceway, receiving a mixed reaction.
What are we fighting for
We cannot live like this no more
Bucky stood with a sick grin, revelling in the fans' hatred.
Cause in the thick of darkened days, we know
Images of all three men, now flickering over one another in time to the beat.
We could blame the world forever
We could just escape together
So are we breaking out or are we breaking down?
We can't blame this world forever
This world forever
The images explode into silver light, then fades to black, punctuated only by the fade in of two ominous green words.
O P E N
S E A S O N
A brilliant wall of white pyro explodes all around the inside of London's O2 Arena, and we pan over the sea of screaming fans.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Open Season 2010 where here, tonight, this year's Commonwealth Cup will be decided! Will it be Bucky Skyler... Dwight Mare... or Scott Simmonds?
:Stevie Howard:
Plus a ton of other stuff to get through, so let's not waste any time!
:Carly Mitchell:
This opening contest is set for one fall...introducing first...
Gavin Rossdale's "Adrenaline" hits the speakers, and the crowd cheer as out runs The Extreme Luchador, Jay "Jbird" Neilson! He tears down the ramp high fiving fans then slides into the ring.
:Carly Mitchell:
From Seattle, Washington, weighing two hundred and twenty-five pounds...
Jbird bounces up onto the top turnbuckle in one corner and poses, then rushes to the other side where he repeats the gesture.
:Carly Mitchell:
JAAAAY... NIIEELLLLSOOOOONNN!
He drops down into the ring awaiting the start of his match.
:Carly Mitchell:
And his opponent...DRAVEN!
The lights go out and the arena goes completely dark. As the fist gong of heels bells hit the titan tron flashes with a outline of a crow. The second gong hits. When the music starts playing the lights come on. Standing in the middle of a fire outline of the a crow is Draven. He walks slowly to the ring. He then slides into the ring and goes to the nearest corner and sits on the mat until the match starts.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
This match should be great to start Open Season. Draven against Jay Neilson!
:Stevie Howard:
Yeah I guess, but I'm not taking any sides just yet.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Good. Take a chance to actually watch the match.
Singles Match
Jay Nielson vs Draven
As the opening bell sounds, the fans in attendance are roaring as the two superstars lock up. Draven puts Jay in a headlock and Jay backs Draven to the ropes. He sends him across and as Draven rebounds he is met by a clothesline by Neilson. Jay then starts stomping on Draven and then runs to the ropes. As he rebounds, Draven stays down then gets up quickly and drops Neilson with a closed fist. Jay gets up again and Draven takes him down with another one. The referee steps in to tell Draven about a closed fist.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
It seems that Draven has been using closed fists. He should stop or he will end up being disqualified.
:Stevie Howard:
I have to agree with you Crell. It would be a shame for Draven's debut here at Open Season to be a crappy Disqualification.
As Draven advances towards Jay, he tosses Draven through the ropes to the floor. Draven holds his back as Neilson taunts to the capacity crowd. He then runs and leaps at Draven with a suicide dive to the outside. Jay slowly gets back to his feet and he lifts Draven and rolls him back into the ring. He slides back in himself and hooks the legs.
ONE!
TWO!
TH---
Kickout by Draven.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Jay Neilson showing that he wants to put this away early.
:Stevie Howard:
Yeah, but that might not work. He needs to stay focused and not try to rush or he could lose this match.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
That was pretty good, Stevie.
:Stevie Howard:
I try.
Jay sits up and looks a little aggravated. He pulls Draven up by the hair and sends him to the turnbuckle. He then charges at Draven but he is able to stick his boot up! Jay's head bounces hard off the boot and he stumbles back. Draven takes advantage of this by sending the stunned Neilson to the ropes. Jay rebounds into a vicious powerslam by Draven. He smirks as he hooks the legs.
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
NO!
:Stevie Howard:
Nice try, but not enough.
Draven gets to his feet and is shining with confidence as he signals for his finishing move. He pulls up Jay and puts his head between his legs. He takes a moment to many and Jay is able to send him overhead to the mat. As Draven gets up, Jay hits a few fists to the face before hitting a monstrous hurricanrana sending Draven across the ring! Jay then stalks Draven and when he hops back up, he hits him with a huge dropkick the sends him to the turnbuckle.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
He calls that The Rush. This usually sets up for The Crash. Draven might be in huge trouble here.
:Stevie Howard:
I don't know Crell. Something is telling me inside my gut that there is more fight left in Draven.
Jay takes a moment to taunt the fans and he readies himself for The Crash. After a few moments he charges right at Draven but Draven has the sense to use Jay's momentum against him and sidestep him while shoving him sternum first into the turnbuckle. He then rolls Jay up.
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
NO!
:Stevie Howard:
See? Draven was inches away from winning the match.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Yeah, well he didn't win yet Stevie. But, what a great opening contest we are witnessing.
:Stevie Howard:
I know, both of these guys want it...but who wants it more?
Both superstars arise to their feet. Jay charges at Draven but he ducks and the two begin trading punches. Draven hits Jay with a hard forearm shot to stop his momentum before hooking him for a suplex. He lifts him up but Jay is able to drop back and he runs Draven to the ropes and rolls him up but Draven holds on to the ropes so Jay just falls back. Draven then quickly takes the time to lift Jay up and hit places his head in between his legs and hits him with The Draven Drop! Jay seems out but Draven is taking time to recover.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Wow! Draven Drop! He could have this match won!
:Stevie Howard:
Key word is COULD. He needs to make a cover.
Draven is slowly moving to Jay and he finally drapes his arm over him!
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-NO! Jay places his foot on the bottom rope!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Jay Nielson show great ring awareness.
Draven slaps the mat, clearly frustrated. He gets up and drags Jay to his feet. He then sends him to the ropes. Jay, being almost out of it holds onto the ropes. Draven then charges and sends himself and Jay over the top rope, crumbling on the floor below!
:Stevie Howard:
Wow! This match has been great!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
And the match isn't over yet.
The referee checks on both men and neither of them are responding. He begins his count.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
FOUR!
FIVE
SIX!
SEVEN!
Both men are starting to stir.
EIGHT!
Draven is using the apron to help him up as Jay is going on his own fortitude.
NINE!
Draven is just able to make it into the ring and Jay is fully to his feet.
TE-NO! Jay just makes it in the ring! The crowd is going wild!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Wow! Both men are going balls to the wall here.
:Stevie Howard:
But how much more do they have in the tank?
Both superstars use everything they've got to get back to their feet. They stare at each other as the fans cheer at how well this opening match has been. Draven advances and throws a wild punch but Jay ducks and catches Draven with a knee to the gut. He then shoves Draven back into the ropes. Draven uses that momentum to rebound himself and he charges at Jay. What he does, we'll never know because Jay counters with a massive missile dropkick that sends Draven into the corner. Without any hesitation, Jay runs at Draven and connects with The Crash! He drops down into the cover as the referee counts.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
:Carly Mitchell:
Here is your winner...JAAAAAAYY NIEEELSONNN!
The referee helps Jay to his feet, Jay raises him arm as he slowly climbs out of the ring.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
What a great match. Jay had just a little more in the tank than Draven did.
:Stevie Howard:
Obviously...or Draven would be the winner.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
...Yes...yes he would
Shifting backstage, Maximus_Ordicus is sitting backstage on a speaker box resting with his back against the wall. He is reading something in a notebook when all of a sudden Hayden Clarke walks into view holding a mic.
:Hayden Clarke:
Max, do you have a minute for an interview?
Max looks over at Hayden while closing his notebook.
:Maximus_Ordicus:
I've always got a minute Hayden, but not to answer any questions. No, not this time. But, I will say this. Engineer the time is drawing near. It's going to be you and me for the International Championship. Have you been training? Have you been working out? Have you been studying all the film that you could find on me? If you answer no to any of these questions then you are less prepared than I am.
Max slides off of the speaker box and looks off camera. The camera pans over and you can see Rebecca Tanke-Grubb and "little" Brandi heading t'wards Max. They pause when they see the cameras and Max with Hayden. Max smiles and then turns back for the camera.
:Maximus_Ordicus:
Looks like a have a few things to do before my match. Engineer understand this muh mang, this will be the first title shot that my daughter will be here to see. I will do everything in my power to walk out as the new International Champion.
With that Max walks over to Rebecca and Brandi and the screen fades from the speaker. We cut to a now fully constructed set of Wildlive, located as always in its own space several feet to the side of the entrance ramp. Like the Carpe Diem, most of the decor seems to be GEW oriented. There's a stack of flyers for the event laid out over the bar, along with mugs, shot glasses and cups, mostly GEW licensed. Of course, there's also a rather cheap looking prop wall with a rather stocked set of booze, soft drinks and other goodies running behind the ball. Almost identical to the Carpe Diem set in fact, although obviously with updated merchandise and magazines.
And of course, the set extends well past the bar, so there's a couple tables, each with three chairs.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
And as is quickly becoming a pay per view tradition, we're going to be treated to another episode of...Wildlive!
The camera pans around the set again, showing a couple wrestling magazines on the tables. There's plain wooden tables, chairs, and even lights, oddly offset by a neon "GEW" sign behind the bar. After another camera pan, the music picks up.
"Starring at the Sun" by Offspring plays in synch both over the arena PA system and the bar's own series of radios and speakers. The "Wild Wolf" himself steps through the prop door on the 'wall' behind the bar, and enthusiastically plays up the crowd, waving his hands to and fro. Wilde picks up a microphone from under the bar, and quickly says his piece after his music dies out.
:Wilde Tanke:
We're LIVE in the UK! And it's Ooooopen... Seeeeeason!!
This brings the fans to life and has 'em goin crazy!
:Wilde Tanke:
And this is certainly going to be a Wildlive for all seasons! After all, we're gonna be promised new tag team champions tonight!
The fans go crazy. Who doesn't love a good vacated title match?
:Wilde Tanke:
Youthful Image has good history with tag teaming in the UK. But tonight isn't just about me alone.. Well, it will be when I win the tag team titles, but until then, let's bring out my number one fan... The only man to win three world titles without a single successful defense... the world's most famous radioactive hairdo, and a living legacy to the phrase 'gimmick abuse..' FLAAAAREEE!
"I Wanna Be Sedated" sounds out over the set as Flare stalks onto the set of Wildlive, holding an old-school ghetto blaster up on his shoulder, playing his team's theme. He is dressed for in-ring action in his flames-on-back longcoat and tights. Despite wearing no shirt, Flare has come in his formal wear: a clipon tie has been painfully fastened to the underside of his chin. He puts the ghetto blaster down, and presses the 'stop' button.
:Flare:
HELLLLOOO... uh, is the crowd watching this live?
Wilde puts an arm around Flare in a good natured fashion, and points to the audience in the distance.
:Wilde Tanke:
I dunno.. crowd, are you alive?!
Dueling IN-MATES and Y-I chants sound out from the enthusiastic crowd. Flare grins.
:Flare:
HELLLLO LONDON!! WHO'S THE BEST?!
The crowd shouts back "I'M THE BEST", and Flare is sated.
:Wilde Tanke:
London, who loves you?!
A group of fans yell back "FATHER CHRISTMAS!" Wilde blinks a few times.
:Wilde Tanke:
Did I just get punked out by a singing choir?!
:Flare:
More importantly, where's your tux? This is our first match against each other ever! I expect you to dress up for the occasion.
Flare waggles the clipon attached to his neck. His eyes water a little and he smiles bravely. Wilde looks down, shyly.
:Wilde Tanke:
My clip on?! I can't figure how to tie it!
The clip-on tie attached to Flare's bare neck really does look painful. He looks at Wilde for a moment.
:Flare:
Probably for the best.
:Wilde Tanke:
How in the hell did you...
:Flare:
Some questions are better left unasked. Let's get this show going!
He turns to the crowd as he finishes his sentence, getting a nice pop. Wilde plays along with it.
:Wilde Tanke:
So, what's it like doing the top talk show in GEW history, Flare?
Flare grins.
:Flare:
Not bad so far. I'll tell ya Wilde, I have had one HELL of a bad week. Wildlive seems like the cushiest place in the world and I'm glad to be here, even if we are going to be pummeling each other's faces in shortly.
:Wilde Tanke:
So basically like half the times we went out gambling.
Wilde smiles affectionately. Flare snorts, shaking his head.
:Flare:
Well, what else is there to do in Vegas? I still have your bad gambling habits, by the way.
:Wilde Tanke:
Did you ever get your second pair of boots back?!
:Flare:
Nawh. They looked better on that hobo anyways.
:Wilde Tanke:
They sure were classy hobos, though. Anyway, I think the fans are expecting entertainment.
Flare looks at Wilde with a smirk.
:Flare:
And that entertainment is all in -your- court. You're running the show here Wilde! Let's hear some questions!
:Wilde Tanke:
AHH! Stop pressuring me.. I've had a rough week. I actually had to handle my own hotel arrangements!
:Flare:
Wow, that is pretty heavy man. That's awful! Having to go online and click a mouse two or three times... maybe even making a hotel room! And reading out the credit card numbers, real difficult! I don't even know what I'm complaining about.
:Wilde Tanke:
ME?! Use a computer?! Did you forget what happened to your laptops three through five, and eight?
:Flare:
Look, I didn't know that inflammable meant they were actually flammable!
:Wilde Tanke:
So anyway, enough about me and the thousands of dollars I might or might not have set you back. So tell us about this bad week. Bad enough to cost you any focus on the match, I'm sure.
:Flare:
Hah! You wish. Well, the short of it is that - and I love each and every one of my fans dearly - the one fan I don't love dearly decided to accost me, drag me into an alley. There, I was mugged. After being mugged, a building fell on me. And... well tell me Wilde, do you ever worry about becoming a sex slave?
:Wilde Tanke:
Ahh, I don't know.. sometimes Shelly gives me this weird look at nights and I wonder if I'll end up having to bring out the doll and show the police what she.. Sorry. No, not really. It sounds like something that needs to be seriously addressed on a wrestling talk show.
:Flare:
Oh yes, serious face.
Flare passes a hand over his face, which becomes very serious.
:Flare:
Wilde, I woke up in the breakaway republic of Transnistria. Don't ask where that is, I still don't know. Apparently, somebody thought that I was ripe to be sold on the streets of Amsterdam and was ready to sell me off like the sexy, sexy piece of meat that I am. Being the genius I am, I escaped, and managed to use my wits and many non-wrestling related skills to find my way back here in time for the match. And you know why?
Flare shows a toothy grin.
:Flare:
Because Loki and I just -gotta- win this match. We've never faced each other before Wilde. First time. And I don't lose title shots.
:Wilde Tanke:
Who bailed ya out? I'm guessing not Loki.. can't be Ev, I heard she was adopted by Millicent... gimme a tip?!
Flare mutters his response.
:Flare:
Okay, Evelyn bailed me out.
:Wilde Tanke:
Hey, what's a manager good for if they can't bail you out every time you woke up in the wrong state?! Anyway, I brought a very special guest.
Flare quickly interrupts.
:Flare:
Oh! Igor Rumpkins?! I love that little guy!
:Wilde Tanke:
That would be an awesome guest, and really make this memorable.. so obviously that isn't happening. No, it's someone you know really well...
Flare stares blankly at Wilde.
:Flare:
... me?
:Wilde Tanke:
Naw.. more of a brawler.. a biter, too. And the next tag team champion!
Flare opens his mouth to respond.
:Wilde Tanke:
No, it's not Loki.
Faline Reynold's theme "Welcome to the Jungle" starts playing loudly over the set of Wildlive, causing Flare to jump. Wilde extended a hand to the entrance way... and nobody walks in. Flare and Wilde look expectantly as they wait for Faline, but instead the barrel of a plastic gun pokes through the entrance! On the other end of the gun is Loki, dressed for the hunt. He's decked out in camouflage, an orange vest, one of those hats with covers for the ears, and a dog whistle.
:Loki:
Shhhhhh!
The music cuts out.
:Loki:
Be wery wery quiet, I'm hunting kitties! Bwa-a-a-a-a-a!
Flare and Wilde stare at Loki.
:Loki:
It's Open Season! Huntin' time for this humble Norseman, and if I have my way I know one kitty that'll be banged with my weapon, stuffed, and mounted over the mantelpiece!
:Flare:
Uh. Loki? I'm not sure stuffing and mounting her means what you think it means.
Loki beams cheerfully at Flare.
:Loki:
That's okay! Instead, I can turn her into a rug. Then, when she gets dirty, I can take her out back and beat her with a stick!
:Wilde Tanke:
Guys.. Loki, first. You're not mounting my rookie!
:Loki:
Really? I know a guy who can have her stuffed in thirty seconds flat!
The fans are roaring with laughter at this point. Wilde is just giving Loki a look. Wilde then plays it up a little more.
:Wilde Tanke:
And this is how rumors start. Now keep the stick in your pants, Flare.. I'm gonna bring her out and we don't want Jay to get jealous.
The intro music starts again and this time Faline strides out from the back. Once again this week she is dressed for war- with leather pants, ring boots and fingerless gloves along with her usual YI sport shirt.
She moves down to the set and gives Loki a looking over, smirking.
:Faline Reynolds:
What an ignaramussus...
What a maroon...
She lets a wave of British laughter go by and adds.
:Faline Reynolds:
What a nin-cow- poop!
Loki cheerfully takes a chair near to Faline, and then quickly scootches it across the floor. He leans over to Flare, and whispers loudly.
:Loki:
I think she has feline leukemia. Or feline distemper. Or feline syphilis.
Wilde gives Loki an incredulous look. Faline just shakes her head and whispers just as 'softly' to Wilde.
:Faline Reynolds:
Like I said, rabid.
:Wilde Tanke:
Alright, simmer down, children, or we're turning this set around and going home.
Faline smirks.
:Faline Reynolds:
But DAAAD! He started it!
:Loki:
SOMEBODY IS TOUCHING MY LEG!
Wilde facepalms, then raises an eyebrow at Loki's comment.
:Wilde Tanke:
Flare, don't move. They might be back to get you.
:Faline Reynolds:
They're coming to take you away ha-ha!
They're coming to take you away ho-ho hee-hee ha-ha!
Flare closes his eyes, letting out a deep breath before he opens them, and smiles politely to Wilde. Bravely ignoring Faline and Loki, he speaks up.
:Flare:
So, how about this Empire of Blood I hear so much about in our match?
:Wilde Tanke:
I understand he was tag team champions longer than anyone else but, frankly, that was before the Inmates and Youthful Image got here.. Still, I gotta admit, he's way better than Draven.
Loki looks cautiously to Faline, and scootches his chair a little farther away.
:Flare:
I dunno man, I think Draven might just out-goth him.
:Wilde Tanke:
Yeah but does he have lightning powers?
Eyes wide, Loki scootches a little further away from Wilde. He's now well-cleared most of the set, and seems oblivious to a drop at the edge of the stage.
:Flare:
Hah! I dunno man, I'm sure we'll find out soon enough. So - let me ask you two a question here. You think you can beat us?
:Faline Reynolds:
I think if you don't stop your friend this will be a handicap match.
Flare relaxes back in his chair, looking to Faline and Wilde confidently. Wilde tries to turn it around.
:Wilde Tanke:
Do you think we think you can beat us?
:Flare:
Think? Wilde, my good man, I know. This is not the situation I am used to losing in. Loki and I are both very accomplished, world-caliber singles stars who decided to come together and dominate the tag ranks. Singly, we're the best in the world. Together? Unsto---
Having failed to take Faline's advice, Flare does not stop his friend in time. Loki tries to scootch a little further away, and with a yell, crashes over the edge of the stage. After a moment, he stands up, sits back down on his chair, and starts scootching down the hall. Flare simply stares after him for a while, shrugs, and goes back to bragging.
:Flare:
Unstoppable!
Wilde leans forward.
:Flare:
You two have all the talent in the world, but - I mean, come on. It's me you're facing, and whatever is left of Loki.
:Wilde Tanke:
Look, you don't impress me. I mean, you do impress me, a lot. But you don't impress me a lot, that much.
Loki calls from off camera.
:Loki:
I'm not dead yet!
:Flare:
That's the spirit! And of course I impress you!
:Wilde Tanke:
This is serious business, and - Hey look, it's a LOKI!
Flare, Wilde and Faline suddenly stop to stare unblinking at something off camera for about three seconds as Loki comes into view, then vanishes. The conversation then continues as if there'd been no interruptions.
:Wilde Tanke:
And if you don't believe me, just ask my rookie here.
:Faline Reynolds:
Just remember hon. Last week when the dust cleared who was still in the ring with you? And who had beat the shit out of Tanaka outside while you just watched the ref count!
Flare raises his hands defensively.
:Flare:
Hey! You did well! Good on you. If I stepped out, the count would be reset, and we'd lose. But if you're trying to claim you're the sole reason we won that match you, my good woman, are -sadly- mistaken. I'll give you all the credit in the world, gonna pass some back over?
Wilde looks at Faline, deciding to let her handle this one. Faline leaned in toward Flare.
:Faline Reynolds:
Honey, I got plenty of respect for you- here. And yeah you did do your part to get us the win. But in a few moments when we walk down that ramp and into that ring that isn't gonna mean shit- and I'm going to enjoy planting my boot up your ass!
:Flare:
Look "rookie", I don't think you quite know who the hell you're dealing with here! I'm not some nice up and comer for you to test your mettle against. Am I Loki?!
The camera pans over to show Loki, halfway out of the studio and in the hallway of the arena, staring at the wall.
:Loki:
Shhh! I'm playing the penguin game! I'm trying not to think about penguins! ... Way to make me lose, Flare.
The camera pans back to Flare, who facepalms.
:Wilde Tanke:
Then allow me to help your case, Alex. I'd appreciate it if you'd not refer to my rookie as "rookie," alright?
Wilde sounds a bit tense.
:Flare:
Trust me. I can think of something far less kind to say.
Loki calls out from the hallway.
:Loki:
I give that two hearty WTFs, Alex!
:Flare:
Don't call me Alex!
:Wilde Tanke:
Okay.. oookay! I think we can finish this conversation in the ring, Hunter.. and I can think of something you can call her.. it begins with "Please stop hitting me in my 'not pretty since this twenty fifth facelift' face" and ends with "two time GEW tag team champion!"
Wilde seems... well not pissed off but mildly annoyed and protective.
:Flare:
Wait... what? That doesn't make any sense.
Wilde blushes slightly.
:Wilde Tanke:
Yeah well.. yeah, okay. Look, just act offended and get the hell off my set okay?!
:Faline Reynolds:
Or just shorten it to "Bitch." Because that's all you're gonna have time for in the ring!
:Flare:
Gladly. I'll see you in the ring, bitch.
Wilde smiles a bit.
:Wilde Tanke:
And this is why I don't offer drinks during live shows, anymore. Thanks for tuning in, everyone!
:Faline Reynolds:
Don't forget to bring your trained monkey.
Flare smirks, and stalks off the set towards Loki. The scene returns to ringside.
:Carly Mitchell:
Ladies and gentlemen, the following match up is scheduled for ONE FALL and is for the INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!
ARE YOU READY?
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Apparently so. Maximus_Ordicus looks to be starting a big shift in momentum, coming off of a solid win over the cagey Cammy Carnage last week. This man is large, he is angry, and he is coming for The Engineer's title. Do you think The Engineer is outmatched here, Stevie?
Black fog completely engulfs the entrance stage. Projected on the smoke are red flames and writing in cursive slowly writes across the middle of the flames in blue letters with gold trim reading 'Ruining the Competition'.
:Stevie Howard:
Wait, how did you do that?
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Do what?
:Stevie Howard:
Pronounce the underscore in Maximus Ordicus' name?
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Oh. It's a dipthong.
:Stevie Howard:
... So Max has been on a good run here recently, but The Engineer doesn't think like people. Max is too straightforwards, and that may cost him.
:Carly Mitchell:
Now making his way down the aisle...
YA THINK YOU CAN TELL HIM WHAT TO DO?
YA THINK YOU CAN TELL HIM WHAT TO WEAR?
YOU THINK THAT YOU'RE BETTER?
WELL YOU BETTER GET READY... TO BOW TO THE MASTER!
:Carly Mitchell:
From Chicago, Illinois...
At this time, the camera centered on the ramp, Maximus_Ordicus bursts through the fog and its projected flames holding his arm high with his hand in a fist.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
I wouldn't count Maximus out at all. He has a direction and purpose I haven't seen before. It got him a very prestigious win over Cammy Carnage, and it may just be enough to dethrone The Engineer and take the International title.
BREAK IT DOWN!
:Carly Mitchell:
Weighing in at 368 pounds...
DEGENERATE INTO SOMETHING, FOOL
HE JUST GOT TIRED OF DOING WHAT YA TOLD HIM TO DO
THAT'S THE BREAKS BOY, YEAH
AH, THAT'S THE BREAKS LITTLE MAN
BREAK IT DOWN!
Methodically he walks down to the ring as a picture of a rainy night with a full moon appears on the video screen with the small film moving in elasped time.
:Carly Mitchell:
MAXIMUUUSS... ORRRDICUUUSSS!
SAY YOU CAN TELL ME WHAT TO DO?
YA KNOW WHO YOU'RE TALKIN' TO?
Standing in the ring, he signals the crowd with a raised fist. A huge amount of boos reign down, which he seems to relish in before he starts stalking for the ring.
WELL YOU BETTER GET USED
TO THE WAY THE BALL BOUNCES
I SEE WHAT YA GOT,
IT MEASURES IN OUNCES.
The music cuts off as Max pulls on one of the top ropes and gets ready for the match. Scattered boos continue from the hostile crowd.
The entire arena is washed in sterile white light as the following words are spoken through the sound system:
Think of me as your unseen host and believe that, during your stay here, I shall be with you in spirit. May you find the answer that you seek. It is here, I promise you. And now, Auf Wiedersehen.
On the main screen is a grainy image of an old television test screen. After the initial dialogue the sound slips into "Icebreaker" by Skinny Puppy. As the jarring tune and guttural lyrics set in, the test screen fades and is instead replaced with a series of Rorschach ink blots. Each panel of ink blots at first looks innocuous, but soon slithers into the shadowy outlines of terrible scenes: a knife going through a head, a body with entrails spilling out before it, a bisected human torso, a figure whose face appears to be slipping off. Interspersed with the morphing inkblot tests are other images of rats flitting about in sewers and pictures of pleasant "whitebread" 1950's families whose members have no faces. The white lights are now accompanied by small red lights panning all over the arena that look like droplets of blood in contrasts with the white lights.
:Carly Mitchell:
Weighing 204 pounds...
The Engineer steps to the top of the ramp, his head ticking back and forth as he shoots the crowd paranoid, nervous glares and mutters to himself. Clutched in his hands is The International Title. He starts walking down the aisle at an awkward clip, stopping occasionally to snarl at members of the audience who try to reach out and touch him. Eventually he crawls in the ring, stalking along the ring apron.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Now what about this man!
:Stevie Howard:
What about this man?
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
... you tell me.
:Stevie Howard:
Well, aside from his noble quest to rip off Justin Bieber's face and turn that bitch Cammy Carnage into a braindead meat puppet, I have to say he's a pretty stand-up guy. Sure, he may have his quicks and idiosycracies, but in the end he's a hard-working American man just trying to win the little league game and put food on his family.
:Carly Mitchell:
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
He is your INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIOOONNNN...this is... THE... ENGINEEEEEERR!
Weighing in at TWO hundred and four pounds...
No he isn't. That said, The Engineer also has a strange uh, fixation on Dwight Mare who will be wrestling for the Commonwealth Cup later on tonight. After what was initial desire to uh, rip off his face for whatever means, The Engineer has decided the two should be pals. Dwight, unsurprisingly, hasn't been too keen on this.
He casts the crowd a bizarre manic stare as an inky black liquid starts to drip out from his lips. He runs his sleeve across his mouth to stop the flow before getting into the ring and sitting in the corner, where he continues to tic and talk to himself. Maximus eyes his deranged opponent very, very warily as he steps into the ring. Referee Eddie Meyer gingerly takes the belt from The Engineer's hands, steps into the centre of the ring, and raises it high. He motions for both competitors to get up. The Engineer does not as Maximus stalks to the middle, game to start the match.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
It would be remiss of me to avoid talking about size here. The Engineer has almost a two hundred pound disadvantage against Maximus, and The Engineer isn't that small! Although possibly the most vicious man on the roster...
:Stevie Howard:
Which is saying something.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
He's up against a man who is all business, very resilient, and more than willing to step up his game for this prestigious title match.
Eddie Meyer gestures for The Engineer to step up to hear the rules of the match. Maximus keeps his eyes fixed on his opponent, who is still sitting in the corner, his head occasionally jerking with a nervous tic.
Shrugging, Eddie Meyer runs through the rules, glances to each opponent, and calls for the bell.
International Championship
Singles Match
The Engineer vs Maximus_Ordicus
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Well -that- got him moving.
The Engineer springs to his feet at the sound of the bell, showing a huge shark-like grin to Maximus, who remains stoic. Sauntering up to his larger opponent, The Engineer throws out his hand in a huge 'put 'er there pal!' vaguely reminiscent of Dwight Mare. The shredded straight-jacket that functions as his ring gear hangs loosely from his arm as he extends his hand.
:Stevie Howard:
You know how the crowd always says "Don't do it, it's a trick!"
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Uh, yes?
:Stevie Howard:
They're right. It's always a trick.
The Engineer holds out his hand, which Maximus coldly ignores, gesturing for The Engineer to lock up. A comical express of wide-eye shock crossed The Engineer's face, and he stares out to the crowd. Shaking his head, he steps in, and JABS HIS THUMB INTO MAGNUM'S THROAT!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Jab to the corotid artery! The sleeper hold targets that vein!
The Engineer presses his thumb in as Maximus's face turns red before he lets out a roar, sending The Engineer flying back with a shove. The Engineer lands hard on his back, but is back up on his feet, laughing. His shredded straight-jacket weaving a pattern, he puts up his fists mockingly to Maximus, and gestures him on. Maximus charges, but The Engineer ducks under the clothesline, comes up, and hammers a few hard blows into Maximus' face! Eddie Meyer tries to scold The Engineer for closed fists, but is brushed aside as The Engineer pushes Maximus into the ropes. Rather than going for an Irish whip, he just keeps pounding, and is finally thrown back by Eddie Meyer who begins lecturing The Engineer on fair conduct.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
That's enough to get a warning from the ref and--CLOTHESLINE FROM MAXIMUS!
Having had enough of this bullshit, Maximus explodes from the ropes, DRIVING The Engineer into the ground with a clothesline! Hauling the smaller man back up, Maximus whips him overhead with a snap suplex, and just as quickly is back on his feet. Grabbing his opponent, Maximus throws The Engineer out of the ring, and rolls out under the bottom rope. Not missing a beat, he hauls up The Engineer, and whips him HARD into the stairs!
:Stevie Howard:
Holy crap! He's beating him like a OWWWW!!!
The Engineer hits the stairs knee-first and flies overtop of the stairs, landing hard. The crowd oohs appreciateively as Maximus stalks after him, growling.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
What an assault! Anyone is going to be a little unnerved facing The Engineer, and this has come out in the form of Maximus_Ordicus going on a rampage.
Maximus picks up the limp form of The Engineer, and throws him into the ring. Rolling in after, he drops down for a pin.
ONE!
TWO!
No!
:Stevie Howard:
Yeah, not happening yet. Engineer is going to have to be completely out of it before he eats a pin in this match. Maximus has to keep the pressure going.
The Engineer blearily swipes a bit at the air, trying to find purchase as Maximus slowly hauls him to his feet. However, as The Engineer fumbles around, his hand find none other but Maximus_Ordicus' Family_Jewels! With a whoop of joy, he begins to crush Maximus' pride in his hands, the big man falling to his knees. Again, Eddie Meyer is in to shove The Engineer back, lecturing him. The Engineer, still feeling the effects of Maximus' assault, falls back on his seat, going red-faced as the referee lectures him. Maximus groans, clutching his groin.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
A title match ending in a disqualification is not something we ever want to see, but damnit there are rules! The Engineer knows this, I don't care how wacky he is.
:Stevie Howard:
Oh man, testicular claw and a HALF! Great idea - 'Oops! I'm too hurt to know where I am, oh hey, here are some balls to crush.' Looks like an honest mistake to the ref, and Max is now singing soprano.
Maximus and The Engineer both begin to get up, but having had enough of being lectured, The Engineer snarls, and LEAPS from the ground, pouncing on Maximus and hammering fists into him! After several stiff shots to the face, The Engineer punctuates his assault by viciously biting Maximus' nose! This gets a howl of pain as the big man throws The Engineer off. His face twisted into rage, Maximus charges at The Engineer, who remains calm for a moment, before he springs into action at the last second, taking Maximus down with a thesz press and biting him again!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
We've got some blood in the match and The Engineer just doesn't seem to care about a win or a loss here!
:Stevie Howard:
Fuck it, why should he? Titles do not change hands on a DQ.
The ref finally forces The Engineer off of Maximus, whose nose has started to bleed badly. The Engineer crouches in a corner, a wide, insane grin on his face as he licks blood from his teeth. Maximus, wanting to regain control in the match, approaches The Engineer cautiously, in a low freestyle wrestling stance.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Here's the tactic Maximus should be taking. Nobody can beat out The Engineer when it comes to viciousness, but Maximus is one hell of a technician despite his size.
The Engineer very, very carefully watches his opponent, and then dives to the side of Maximus, going into a shoulder roll and coming up to his feet! Quickly, The Engineer begins peppering Maximus with rights, but the big man is prepared, and takes The Engineer down with an arm drag! As The Engineer moves to stand, Maximus shows lightning speed as he falls to the side, plowing The Engineer's knee out with a low dropkick!
:Stevie Howard:
This is why Maximus is so damn good. Look at the SIZE of this guy, and yet he can still whip out moves lighter guys have trouble with doing properly.
The Engineer crashes on his face, and Maximus quickly steps behind him, ties up his leg, and tries to lock on an STF! The crowd bursts into life, mostly boos with a small, hardcore contingent of fans cheering wildly for The Engineer. Maximus tries to lock on the facehold, but The Engineer manages to squirm out of the way. Snarling, Maximus rises up to catch The Engineer in the back of the head with an elbow, but an elbow from The Engineer catches Maximus in his injured nose! Maximus rolls back, clutching his face as blood pours from his nose.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
What a vicious shot! Maximus Ordicus may have had his nose broken... AND THE ENGINEER IS GOING FOR THE TOP!
Sensing his opportunity, The Engineer scrabbles for the top rope, and eyes Maximus carefully BEFORE LEAPING FOR HIS DOUBLE FOOT STOMP!
WHAM!
:Stevie Howard:
OH GOD HE HAS A LOT OF BLOOD IN HIM! HE NAILED IT!!.
Some people in the crowd actually scream as the smaller man flies from the top rope and just SMASHES the hell out of Maximus Ordicus' head! Max goes limp, blood pooling on the canvas as The Engineer grins wildly and drops down. Black ichor begins dripping from his mouth as he grins.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Wow. Just... wow. The Engineer retains and Maximus Ordicus, despite delivering a beating to him, may need a night in the hospital after that.
:Carly Mitchell:
Your winner by pinfall.. AND STILLL INTERNATIONAL CHAMPION! He is... THE ENGINEEEEEER!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Open Season continues to roll along as we prepare to resolve the vacated GEW World tag team titles with a triple threat match! Due to a series of unfortunate injures...
:Stevie Howard:
Coming to dvd and video game systems everywhere, June 15th!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
*Ahem* The tag team title is once again vacated.
:Stevie Howard:
It's the first title I've seen with actual commitment issues.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Well, we're going to settle things right now with a triple threat tag team match.
The Empire of Blood banner starts waving on the tron. "Cammy Carnage" appears on top of the banner in old English. "The Nobodies" starts pumping through speakers, the lights dim, and red strobe lights flash throughout the arena.
:Carly Mitchell:
Weighing one hundred sixty-five pounds
Cammy walks through the curtain and onto the stage with no visible sign of emotion.
:Carly Mitchell:
Currently Residing in Las Vegas, Nevada
She stops just short of the ramp, bends forward at the waiste until her hands touch her toes, she then brings her hands up to her chest touching every little crevice on the way, pauses with her hands cupping her chest and then snaps both hands into the air as fire pyro flares up behind her.
:Carly Mitchell:
CAMMY....CARNAGE!! And her tag team partner is soon to make his way down to the ring.. Weighing one hundred and seventy-five pounds...
She then proceeds to the ring without acknowledging the crowd. Once to the ring it's showered in blood red light. She climbs between the 2nd and 3rd ropes, stops with one leg in the ring and one leg on the apron, and then proceeds to grind and ride them like a pro. She then gets in the ring and awaits her opponent.
The opening notes to Prostitute by Neuroticfish begin to blare through the arena as the arena is covered in red spotlights. From behind the curtain steps Sah'ta Thor in a red and black camouflage. The music reverberates throughout the arena as Thor walks down the ring ramp purposefully. Once in the ring the lights flicker several times only to return to normal.
:Carly Mitchell:
The Immortal... Sah'ta Thor! And their opponents...
A single gold spotlight shines on the entrance as a haunting voice shivers over the PA system.
Dreams. Destiny. Determination
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
And here they come!
A shiver of gold fireworks briefly lights up the stage, then the same voice, a bit louder.
Hollins, Inc
The opening bars to Offspring's "Staring at the Sun" starts playing, although the opening rift is more like the rumble of thunder than a guitar rift. It morphs into a more familiar sound around the six second mark. The words come fast and furious as the official "Hollins, Inc" logo spins around on the tron.
Maybe life is like a ride on a freeway
Dodging bullets while you're trying to find your way
The word 'way' stutter echoes for a handful of seconds.. then, with a bright blue pyrotechnic boom, we skip forward to when the song pace picks up dramatically!
Hey!
When I ran I didn't feel like a runaway
Hey!
When I escaped I didn't feel like I got away
Faline bursts out on the rampway! Wilde Tanke and manager Shelly Hollins will join her during the next lyric.
There's more to living than only surviving
Maybe I'm not there (Hey!), but I'm still trying
Though you hear me, I don't think that you relate
:Carly Mitchell:
The following is tag team contest... Introducing, from Chicago, Illinois... along with manager "Gymnastic" Shelly Hollins..
Faline takes the lead, with Wilde walking swiftly behind her, shaking his head, eyes down on the pathway in front of him. He's got a rather deep frown on his face. "Gymnastic" Shelly Hollins stands side by side as they approach the ring. Faline looks much more energetic as she slides into the ring, and bounces to the nearest corner to salute her fans. Wilde has on a Wild Wolf teeshirt, wrestling boots and forest green pants with autumn color leaf patterns down each leg, with the word "Wild Wolf" over the butt.
:Carly Mitchell:
Weighing in at two hundred and twenty four pounds... WILLLLLLDE TANKE!
You tried to stop me, but you started to late
And my passion cannot be stopped by hate
My will is something that you can't confiscate
So forgive me, but I won't be frustrated
By destruction in your eyes
:Carly Mitchell:
And his tag team partner, she is the "Claws of YI!" Faaaaaline!
Wilde Tanke rolls into the ring as well, sliding into the center, which is covered in a rainbow of bright, warm lights. He shakes his head somberly, and bounces off the ring ropes a few times, then pauses to turn towards the corner, ignoring the other two and crossing his fingers as he again gives his head a small shake.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Fun fact time: If Youthful Image win the tag team titles, it would mark three out of four straight times a Youthful Image member walked into a GEW pay per view without tag team gold and earned the right to call themselves champion. At Pushed to the Limit, November of 2009, Faline Reynolds made her GEW- and wrestling- pay per view by teaming with Shelly Hollins, normally a manager, to win the tag team titles from the Jokers Wild, Although the Jokers Wild regained the their titles, they went on to lose them against their hand picked opponents, Maximus Ordicus and Youthful Image co leader Wilde Tanke, just three and a half months later. It goes without saying that both teams are representing YI again tonight.
:Stevie Howard:
And yet you said it, anyway. Niiiice.
The upbeat power chords of the Ramones begins to rake across the speakers as the crowd noisily responds.
:Carly Mitchell:
The final team.. at 435 pounds.. from Alberta Canada.. THEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE EEEEEEEEEEEEEEE EEEEEEEEE... Inmates.
Twenty-twenty-twenty four hours to go I wanna be sedated
Nothin' to do no where to go-o-oh I wanna be sedated
Pyro EXPLODES at the top of the ramp, bathing the entire area in a bright orange glow and creating a solid wall of flame at the top of the ramp. Suddenly Flare and Loki charge out of the flames, ready for action. The two wrestlers are clad in matching outfits of longcoats, long tights, and elbow pads in blue for Loki and orange for Flare.
Just get me to the airport put me on a plane
Hurry hurry hurry before I go insane
I can't control my fingers I can't control my brain
Oh no no no no no
Flare races towards the ring, slapping hands and jawing constantly with the fans as Loki follows behind at a more leisurely pace, looking around with a crazed expression.
Twenty-twenty-twenty four hours to go....
Just put me in a wheelchair, get me on a plane
Hurry hurry hurry before I go insane
I can't control my fingers I can't control my brain
Oh no no no no no
The two wrestlers both climb to opposite turnbuckles and to tandem backflips into the ring. Both face the crowd, Loki standing behind Flare. Flare spins in place and falls to one knee, snapping his hands to the side and throwing his head back and shouting. Loki beats his chest, screaming at the top of his lungs.
Ba-ba-bamp-ba ba-ba-ba-bamp-ba I wanna be sedated
Ba-ba-bamp-ba ba-ba-ba-bamp-ba I wanna be sedated
Ba-ba-bamp-ba ba-ba-ba-bamp-ba I wanna be sedated
Ba-ba-bamp-ba ba-ba-ba-bamp-ba I wanna be sedated
Surprisingly as if by executive mandate, the ring empties almost immediately as everyone except two wrestlers exit the ring.
Triple Threat Tag-Team Match
Tag-Team Championships (Vacant)
Flare & Loki vs Wilde Tanke & Faline Reynolds vs Sah'ta Thor & Cammy Carnage
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Looks like we'll be starting with the two wrestlers with the most history here. The "Wild Wolf" Wilde Tanke, and Flare of the Inmates.
The fans immediately go into a split chant, roughly half for each wrestler. The two clap, playing up to the fans, then immediately shake each other's hands.
:Stevie Howard:
Urgh, I think I'm gonna be sick.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Over a sign of sportsmanship?
:Stevie Howard:
Well, that and I think I drank my morning whiskey too fast and it's starting to catch up with me.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Ahhh.
Wilde and Flare again shake hands, more dramatically this time.
:Stevie Howard:
Ahh.. once is enough, guys.
However, this time, Flare pulls Wilde in for a clothesline, which Wilde ducks! Wilde throws himself into the ropes, and comes off for a dropkick, which Flare ducks. Wilde scampers up and backs up into the corner. Flare, expecting him to come forward instead, reaches out to hip toss Wilde. When it doesn't work, and Wilde stays in the corner, Flare decides to use a lil psychological warfare.
:Flare:
Get over here so I can hip toss you!!
Wilde just shakes his head, to the amusement of the fans.
:Flare:
Well.. fine!
Flare charges in for a clothesline, which Wilde ducks. Wilde turns him around. A couple quick left jabs find the mark on Flare. Wilde makes the mistake of going for a slower but more powerful uppercut from the left, which Flare manages to block. Flare tosses Wilde into the corner and lights his chest up with a huge chop. Wilde holds his chest and staggers away.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
The historic first ever meeting of Flare and Wilde Tanke as opponents.
:Stevie Howard:
I don't see what's so damned historic about it.
Flare backs up, watching Wilde carefully as Wilde walks over and tags in Faline Reynolds. Flare backs up a bit too much, allowing Thor to reach in and slap him on the shoulder for a blind tag. Flare jumps forward a bit, then turns and frowns, realizing what just happened.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
And just like that, it looks like it'll be Faline Reynolds and the GEW veteran of the match, Sah'Ta Thor.
:Stevie Howard:
Just look at what the man's done. Longest tag team title reign with Baby Dogg and the longest recorded Sterling championship. I found those both on wikipedia!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Clever.
Thor and Faline step to the middle of the ring, and face off. There's a pause, a nod of respect from Thor, and a quick tieup. Thor uses his quickness rather than speed to get the first move in, pushing Faline back into the corner before she can even adjust to the tie up. Thor does a quick pose, and crouches over, smiling ever so slightly as Faline recovers as Shelly looks on.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Thor's been making a name for himself for quite a while in the globe of extreme, but I wouldn't advise underestimating the former tag team champion Faline, trained by Tommy Rogue, obviously under the watchful eye of the "Wild Wolf" Wilde Tanke as Shelly looks on.
Undeterred, Faline rushes at Thor, surprising him with a series of punches. Looking to mix it up, she throws in knee strikes as well. Thor backs up into the ropes and our referee automatically forces the break. Faline backs off. Shelly looks on as Shelly looks on... wait what?!
:Stevie Howard:
Alright, she's got spunk, but Thor's got the experience and so much more.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
I doubt any of our fans are going to underestimate Thor. In fact, he's got a sizable fan base of his own most of the time, although they're not too vocal right now.
Having looked Faline over, Thor determines a gameplan and leaps into a tieup with Faline, who jocks with him for position. She pulls him into a quick hiptoss and rushes at Thor as he gets up. Faline rushes him, but Thor's ready this time and counters with a standing hurracanrana. Thor gets up and motions for his fans to respond while Faline gets to her feet. Thor throws himself recklessly off the ropes and connects with a clothesline, knocking Faline back to the mat. Being a fighter, she forces her way to her feet anyway, and immediately gets ddt's by Thor, who follows it up with a nice elbow drop. Hollins is calmly but confidently cheering Faline on.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
But yeah, he knows how to get the job done.
Thor covers, but it doesn't even get a one count. Looking to press the advantage, he turns and tags in the closest person he can find; Loki of the Inmates. Loki comes into the ring, bolts a circle around Faline one and a third times, and lays on her for the pin.
ONE!
TWO!
Kickout!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
He wasn't trying for a pin so much as forcing Faline to expend a little energy kicking out.
Loki's got a childlike smile on his face as he cranks in the side headlock, being sure to grind it in. The fans are slowly drawn into the match as Faline pushes her way up. Loki looks around, then shakes his head. As soon as she's up, Loki tries to clothesline her. She ducks, but Loki stops his momentum as he passes over, and catches her turning around with a perfectly executed spinning back fist! The fans explode.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Spinning back first! That'll leave Faline with stars in her eyes.
:Stevie Howard:
Or furballs in her head.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
.... yeah.
Loki pulls Faline up, and sets her up for a powerbomb, moving quick before Faline can figure out what's going on. She finds herself in the air, looking up at the lights by the time she realizes the impact's coming. Loki drives her hard into the mat with the powerbomb, and simply hooks his legs over her shoulders as her body is rocked by the impact.
ONE!
TWO!
THR--
NO!
:Stevie Howard:
I'm glad she kicked out. Woulda been embarrassing to lose this early.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Not to a move like the powerbomb. Loki's usually been hampered in that move by the sheer size of his opponent in previous federations, but in GEW where talent and rightfully and justly desire trumps simple brute size and strength, it rightfully becomes quite the weapon in his arsenal.
:Stevie Howard:
Why don't you just fly a GEW flag while you're at it? Yeesh.
Back to the match, where Loki's going for a suplex, which Faline's blocking! Faline blocks a second attempt and slams a knee into Loki's midsection. Faline rams an especially harsh forearm into Loki's face and sends him back peddling with a series of kicks and punches. Faline turns and quickly starts making her way to tag Wilde on, but it doesn't do any good; Loki grabs her from behind, pulls her into a neutral corner, and slams her head into the turnbuckle! With Faline dazed, it's a simple matter to use a Reverse Russian Leg sweep to facebuster Faline's face directly into the turnbuckle!
Loki has a disgusted look as he wipes himself off and goes to tag Flare, mumbling something about it not being safe to touch Faline.
:Stevie Howard:
I get the impression Loki and Faline *really* do not like each other.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
No kiddin?! You figured that out all by yourself, did you?
Flare leaps over the ropes, barrel rolls into the ring, and comes up into a running clothesline against Faline! Faline slumps in the corner.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Faline's slipping into a dangerous position in a match like this.
Flare turns and yells for the fans, bringing several of them to their feet. Flare drags her out to the middle of the ring, picks her up, and spinebusters her to the mat! He then raises a hand, and the fans chant, "Flare must fly! Flare must fly!" Flare throws himself towards the turnbuckles and comes away with a picture perfect splitlegged moonsault into an elbow drop!
:Stevie Howard:
Canadian kid's got the moves, no doubt!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
And he might, wait.. Flare covers!
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
Nope! Faline just barely powers a shoulder off the mat, having barely recovered from the impact of that move before the ref could drop the count.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Flare almost pulled it off there, but Faline shows that heart.
:Stevie Howard:
Yeah, she's just a stubborn bitch.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Show a lil respect!
:Stevie Howard:
What?! She probably likes to be called that!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Uhh.. Anyway, that's besides the point!
Flare's got Faline up, and she looks rather limp. The fans are torn, with a big section chanting, "Let's go, Faline!" and another almost as big section responding with "Let's go, Flare!" Flare gives it the briefest of acknowledgements, before dragging Faline towards his corner. Unfortunately, as he does, Cammy Carnage rushes over and tags herself in. While Flare looks over in disbelief, she walks over, and grabs Faline like she's going for a back body drop. Instead, however, she hooks Faline's legs over Cammy's back, and reaches back to hook Faline's legs as well, leaving Faline ready to be dropped backwards on her head and neck. It's a devastating move with one drawback; it leaves Carnage open to an attack by Flare. Thus, the very second she drops back, Flare nails her out of nowhere with a superkick!! Both wrestlers go down, with Faline suffering greatly reduced impact from the move.
:Stevie Howard:
What in the Gypsie Nell?!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
I'm not sure what that means, but...
:Stevie Howard:
Picked it up from one of the locals.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Regardless, *right* as Cammy Carnage was goin' for the Drop-A-Bitch, Flare blasted her with the Firebolt! Cammy's out of it!
Both Faline and Cammy seem out of it after that double finisher. Faline, out of it and barely conscious, somehow is able to get her mind going enough to hook her arms and legs back to snake them around each of Cammy's shoulders. Faline simply tips her weight and pulls Cammy over into a pinning position.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Modified Crucifix rollup by Faline!
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
The fans go nuts as Flare crashes down on both wrestlers, breaking the pin up in the most dramatic of ways!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Flare just broke the pin up with a perfectly executed Fireball!
There's a quick double angle replay of Faline hooking Cammy's shoulder and sliding her over for a pin. As she does, the replay shows Flare scaling the rope and doing a backwards flip off the top rope, coming down on both Cammy and Faline to break the pin up! Flare looks a bit annoyed as he drags Cammy to her feet and drops her with a backbreaker before Flare exits the ring, slaps Cammy's hand and hops over the top rope. Cammy continues to lay there, hardly moving after taking three of Flare's best moves.
Flare hops over and pulls Faline up, then immediately tags in Loki! Flare locks on the Camel Clutch as Loki goes into the far ropes. Unfortunately for the Inmates. as Loki bounces off the far ropes, Wilde reaches in and tags her with a left jab! Loki staggers coming off the ropes and swings for Wilde, who ducks! Loki backs off before Wilde can fire back.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Wilde Tanke managed to break up the very well known double team move before Loki could pull the trigger.
:Stevie Howard:
Give the head punk in charge credit; he knows what he's up against!
Flare, however, has a worm's eye view of Wilde's move. As walks over, Flare pulls Faline to her feet, and drop kicks her, leaving Faline stumped in the corner. Seeing Thor come closer, Flare rushes over and shoulder blocks him, sending him to the outside of the ring. Meanwhile, Loki connects with a simple but effective elbow drop on the prone body of Faline. Wilde slides into the ring to break the pin up, but Flare cuts him off as Loki goes for the pin.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Viking Long Jump! Loki with the pin!
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
No!! Flare's still brawling with Wilde. Cammy's still down and barely moving. Thor's just stirring at ringside. So it isn't a safe that allows the match to continue.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Faline kicked out! That surprised me. Loki dropped that elbow perfectly, but the heart and soul of Faline refused to let this match end!
:Stevie Howard:
Yeah, alright she kicked out, but could you tone it down a little?
Shelly looks rather concerned this one might be over any second now. Frustrated, and mumbling about how he's "tired of touching her," Loki turns to tag in Flare, who's still busy with Wilde Tanke. Flare drops to the outside to avoid the unnecessary fight and Loki turns to complain to Flare. Instead, she's met with a sharp left jab by Wilde Tanke, who then scoots out of the ring, looking a bit more emotional than usual. Meanwhile, Flare takes the tag and immediately climbs to the top! Thor rushes over to intercept but Loki dives at Thor, taking them both down.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
He's going for a second Fireball!
He connects.. with the mat! Faline just barely rolled out of the way! She immediately starts rolling for the tag to Wilde.
:Stevie Howard:
And she's gonna tag in that dweeb Wilde Tanke!
Faline gets a little closer. Flare nips up. Faline continues crawling, to the delight of any Youthful Image fans in the audience. Flare dives and grabs her legs, but she turns and slaps him then tags out to Wilde, anyway! Wilde slips into the ring and starts trading rights and lefts with Flare, quickly getting the better of Flare and knocking him down with a huge left. Loki staggers over, only to have Wilde grab Loki and shoot him over the top rope.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
The Wild Wolf is legal and on the hunt!
Wilde grins at Flare gets up and immediately slammed back to the mat by Wilde. Wilde drops a measured knee drop to Flare's head. Wilde's all business as he pulls Flare up, then clips Flare's knee!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
He's being smart to work that leg and keep Flare off his feet!
Wilde backs off a couple steps, then nails Flare with a running knee smash to the side of Flare's jaw! Loki rolls in the ring, attempting to save his partner, but Wilde's on a fire now. A precision drop kick to Loki's knees staggers Loki. A second drop kick sends Loki through the top and middle rope, stumbling to the ring apron!
Wilde then turns his attention back to Flare. He whips Flarehard into the turnbuckle and follows in with a hard drop kick to Flare's chest! Flare staggers out. Wilde's quickly on his feet, and follows up with a running bulldog to Flare! Wilde turns and makes the cover.
ONE!
TWO!
THRE- ...wait no!
Not quite, anyway.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
And Flare shows HIS heart of a champion!
:Stevie Howard:
Well, that was cliche. What's next.. "Go team?"
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
... Maybe.
What's next is Wilde setting Flare up in position for a dvd. Instead of dropping to his side, as one might expect, Wilde throws Flare into the air. As Flare crashes down to the mat, Wilde hooks Flare's head in a side headlock as Wilde drops, turning it into a modified bulldog!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
He it hit! He hit the Howl of the Wolf!
ONE!
TWO!
No! Before the match ending three count can be delivered, Loki slides half way into the ring to grab Wilde's leg, and pulls the Wild Wolf off Flare, obviously breaking the three count! Loki slides into the ring and stands up, waiting for Wilde to regain his balance. Still reeling, Wilde never the less pulls off one of his quickest left jabs ever against Loki. Impossibly, Loki manages to duck it, and hooks Wilde's waist. Loki lifts Wilde up like he's going for a simple backdrop. Thing is, Loki over rotates the move, and Wilde crashes head first into the mat!
:Stevie Howard:
Yeah?! Well, Flare just took Wilde Tanke straight to fuckin' Ragnarok!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
More like an inverted Ragnarok but it got the job done!
:Stevie Howard:
Do we even know who the legal men are at this point?!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
I don't think it matters to the referee.
Loki does a quick slap on the mat, then covers Wilde.
ONE!
TWO!
That's all he gets though, as Thor drives an elbow across the back of Loki's head. Thor pulls Loki to his feet.
:Stevie Howard:
Thor against Loki. Awesome!
Thor takes advantage of the element of surprise, lifting Loki up into the air and dropping him with a spinning piledriver!
:Stevie Howard:
Annnd there's the Parasite Eve!
Thor turns around and roars to the crowd, only to be nailed by a Superkick from Flare!
:Stevie Howard:
Firebolt! I love saying that. Firebolt! See? Rolls off the tongue.
Thor stumbles back, right into a spear from Faline!
:Stevie Howard:
Pounce! ... Also fun to say.
The replay quickly shows Faline climbing the top rope as Thor was superkicked, leaving her in the perfect position for the pounce.. Back to live action. Faline rushes for Flare with a spear, but Flare brings up a knee lift into her face!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Excellent counter by Flare!
Though staggered, there's just enough 'pin instinct' in Loki to go for a quick rollup! As he does, Flare turns towards Wilde, who's trying to slide in the ring. Flare nails Wilde with a low drop kick, sending Wilde back to the outside of the ring.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Twenty-twenty-twenty four hours to go I wanna be sedated
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
They did it!
Nothin' to do and no where to go-o-oh I wanna be sedated
Just get me to the airport put me on a plane
:Carly Mitchell:
Here are your winners, and.. NEEEEEW!! GEW tag team champions!! Flare! Loki!! The.. INMAAATES!!
The crowd's on their feet as "I Wanna be Sedated" continues to play!
Hurry hurry hurry before I go insane
Oh no no no no no!
The fans are dancing. Well, some of them are. Most of them are just cheering wildly, except the ones who are too good to cheer on new world Tag Team Champions.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
The Inmates have won the GEW Tag Team titles, and Loki did it.. without biting!
:Stevie Howard:
Huh.. he did, huh? LAME!
The Inmates are celebrating.. which pauses momentarily as Wilde slides in the ring. For a second, it looks like there's going to be a fight. That's because, for a second, Wilde looks pissed. Instead, he gives both Inmates a brief but sincere applause, then Wilde drops to his knees to see how Faline is doing.
Loki laughs then darts to the ring. Flare and Wilde help Faline to her feet.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Some real sportsman ship shown here between both teams.
Thor watches them from outside, salutes the new champion, and turns. As he does, Flare spins Wilde around. Wilde shrugs his shoulders and gives Flare a handshake as Loki runs around the ring hyperactively.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
What the hell?!
Although we don't have a good view of it, Faline does. Thor just turned around and walked straight into a superkick by Velvet Grey!
:Faline Reynolds:
That little bitch!
Wilde and the Inmates seem to fail to hear the comment from Faline, who slides out of the ring. Velvet picks Thor's nearly unconscious body up and prepares to ddt it.. but stops, turns and runs when she sees Faline sprinting down the exit! Meanwhile, Wilde is still giving Inmates their proper respect. We cut backstage, where we see Velvet duck down a hallway.. a few seconds later, we see Faline follow!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
And there goes the rookie Faline after her! Plenty of bad blood between these two.
:Stevie Howard:
Understatement. Not a drop of good blood between these two.
The view split screens, showing happenings in the ring on one side and the chasing Faline on the other. As we race backstage we see Velvet dash around a corner. Faline turns the corner herself- only to find a two by four blocking her way and smashing into her ribs!
She staggers back- and gets knocked down by a second shot. The camera angle has changed a bit and we can see who is wielding this weapon.
:Stevie Howard:
TANAKA!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
This can't be good for the rookie- Ichiro Tanaka obviously has an axe to grind with her after she delayed his return to the ring in the Chaos leading up to this!
Faline isn't giving up yet, though- but is hit once again by the lumber across her back even as she struggles to rise, sending her down with a look of pain. She doesn't have to worry about a follow up shot, however, as the board breaks across her back.
:Stevie Howard:
Cheap British wood- an American board could have taken two, maybe three more shots.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
You do realize our flight home isn't until tomorrow morning?
It doesn't stop the pain, however as Tanaka reaches down and grabs Faline by the hair, pulling her painfully to her feet. He's stopped from doing anything immediate by a hard desperation right from Faline. Tanaka is backed off a bit but it seems to help his attack as he immediately goes into a spinning wheel kick, sending Faline back down again.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
You have to admit that the girl has guts.
:Stevie Howard:
Yeah- and that we're about to have proof of that, literally.
Again Faline struggles to her feet, which Tanaka seems willing to let her do. When she does she charges him, and he sidesteps, grabbing her by the back of the head and driving her into the wall, face first. She slumps, and Tanaka lets her slide to the floor as he goes to arrange some boxes.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
I think he's trying to set up for his finisher.
:Stevie Howard:
OniNo Bakudan? Sweet!
After completing his set up with the boxes, Ichiro grabs to prone Faline and drags her to elevated position, climbing up along side her.
:Ichiro Tanaka: You think you can just go around costing me matches? Think you can just go around making me lose on a technicality? Well, you have another thing coming.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Oh Gawd, this CANNOT be good...
Indeed, just as our dastardly, Far East hailing, numero uno contender to Mark Champan's Extreme Title is about to try in earnest to maim our helpless heroine there's a blur of a figure that jets by like he has a 747 jet propulsion system strapped to his back. We don't quite see who it is until he takes flight, leaping impressively towards the second generation rookie.
:Stevie Howard:
The hell?! IS THAT...
Boxes are flung abound everywhere as Tanaka is blindsided by a spear that sends boxes flying and more importantly forces Ichiro to relinquish his grasp on the unconscious Faline.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
There were rumors circulating about his return, and by Gawd, TOMMY ROGUE IS BACK AND HE DIDN'T DISAPPOINT!
:Stevie Howard:
Well, unless you're Tanaka that is! This isn't quite done!
On cue Tanaka scrambles to his feet with a look of rage forming across his countenance as he realizes what just happened. Rogue, is quick to his feet and as the former Omega Champion glares a steely emerald stare Tanaka's way - who returns the favor in earnest, of course.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Wow, what a development we've got on our hands here. Another case of Tanaka going bonkers is halted by Tommy Rogue who we haven't seen in MONTHS!
:Stevie Howard:
I guess the bastard owes Faline one since she had to defend his title for him while he was off doing... whatever...
Icirho doesn't back off at first. He still looks ready for a fight. That changes a few seconds later when JBird shows up. He backs up a few steps. Then, seeing Wilde Tanke and Shelly wonder in, he turns and stalks away in a huff. As he does, Rogue turns towards Wilde, not exactly looking pleased as Shelly drops down to tend to and assess Faline's condition. Faline stirs and tries to get up one last time. Shelly does her best to stop her, though it's hard.
:Faline Reynolds:
Fuckin...asshole.
:Tommy Rogue:
Hey, Wilde, the hell were you dude?
Wilde just makes a confused / annoyed expression, as Shelly and Jay help Faline up... while also keeping her from rushing off to deal with Ichiro. The camera cuts backstage, inside of the locker room of Kameron Chase, where he is finishing up lacing his boots. Zoe is sitting across from him, one leg crossed over the other. He raises his head to look at her once he's done and gives her a slight smile.
:Kameron Chase:
You excited? Nervous? Your first show... and it's a big one.
After an intake of breath, she shrugs her shoulders.
:Zoe:
I dunno, really. I'm curious and slightly worried.
:Kameron Chase:
You don't need to be worried, babe. I told you that already.
He laughs and stands, moving over to her.
:Kameron Chase:
It's nothing crazy tonight. I'll be fine.
She smiles slightly but doesn't seem completely convinced. Nevertheless, she smiles and stands to meet him.
:Zoe:
I know... but after seeing you in the hospital, I'm naturally gonna worry.
Wrapping her arms around him for an impromptu hug, she sighs softly.
:Zoe:
I kinda wish I could go out there with you.
Letting his hands come to rest on her waist he grins as he looks down at her, shaking his head.
:Kameron Chase:
I don't think that would be the greatest idea ever. James is a little bit of a lunatic.
Throwing her shoulders back, Zoe manages to look almost comically defensive before she balls up her fist and socks him in the shoulder.
:Zoe:
Don't tell me stuff like that, Kam!
:Kameron Chase:
Oww!
He rubs his shoulder while laughing, and then taking it further.
:Kameron Chase:
Are you trying to injure me before I go out there against a psycho?
She giggles, rolling her eyes, her worry forgotten as she looks up at him.
:Zoe:
Don't make me have to hurt you!
:Kameron Chase:
You couldn't if you tried.
Laughing slightly along with her, he wraps his arms around her and then leans down to give her a peck on the lips.
:Kameron Chase:
I promise I'll come back to you in one piece. And then you can try hurting me later. OK?
Returning his kiss with another for luck, she pulls back with a grin.
:Zoe:
I'm gonna hold you to that, stud!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Well, Kameron Chase certainly seems confident tonight!
:Stevie Howard:
I would be too if I had something like THAT waiting for me when I got back! WOWZA!
The opening riff of "AMERICAN Z" blasts through the speakers, causing the GEW audience to boo loudly, welcoming Ichiro Tanaka onto the entrance ramp. The Japanese wrestler stands there a moment, giving the audience a little wave and a smile, taking their hatred of him in stride.
:Carly Mitchell: Introducing first, from Tokyo Japan...
Ichiro slowly makes his way down the ramp, taking his time to even stop and chat with some of the people at ringside. He is inhumanly calm, especially for someone with a title match coming up. He eventually makes it up to the side of the ring, the boos not dieing down for even a second.
:Carly Mitchell: ...Weighting one hundred and eighty pounds, he is...
And mirroring his behavior at the start of his past matches, Ichiro has already taken the microphone away from Carly before she can finish his introduction. He pauses for a moment, letting the boos and jeers die down a little before bring the microphone to his lips
:Ichiro Tanaka: You all know who I am, and you know why I am here. You don't need someone like Carly Mitchell shouting out my name at the beginning of each match. You don't need my weight read out to you, my hometown read out to you. No, your action from the start of my music tells me you already know who I am. Your reaction from the start of my music tells me you already know I am here to win the Extreme Chaos Championship.
. The boos start back up again, Ichiro Tanaka clearly not the fan favorite here. However, he takes this all rather well, smile on his face the entire time. He even gave the fans a little shake of his head, like he was disappointed in their reaction
:Ichiro Tanaka: Now now, I know that is hard to hear, but I came here to win tonight. I came here to dominate Mark Chapman, I came here to take that title from around his waist and show everyone what a real garbage wrestler can do. But because I am so kind, so generous, I didn't want to put on some old boring match for you. I didn't want this to be some quick exchange of weapon shots and simple techniques. No, I want to give you blood, give you a sceptical. But in order to do that, we are going to need to bring out my opponent. So, without further ado, please put your hands together for... MARK CHAPMAN!
He stepped out of that garden and let me tell ya this....he had God-like power!
The heavy opening of Chimaira's "Power Trip" kicks in immediately with flashing blue lights hitting the staging area. During the initial scream, Mark Chapman bursts through the curtain, coming to an instant stop on the stage; Aviators covering his eyes and a smirk on his face.
Face to face
No time to waste
This is the time for revenge
Your claim to fame
Of crushing dreams
Your control has no hold on me
Has no hold on me!
Once the lyrics start, Mark makes his move toward the top of the ramp, taking a long glance at the crowd on either side of him. With no introduction from Carly, he takes his time, adjusting the championship belt on his shoulder before starting down the ramp.
I hate the way
You have no shame
You act like nothing's happened
It's time to rise
The final fight
This is the last time
He casually tags the outstretched hands of a few excited fans lining the ramp before walking around to the ringside steps and climbing them. He stares at Ichiro through his shades while standing on the apron, and then slowly climbs between the ropes.
I will not fail again
I will not let you win
Fuck... your...
Power trip!
Instead of his usual energized jump up to the middle rope, he hands the Extreme Chaos championship to the referee, along with his Aviators and pulls his shirt off over his head, scrunching it up and tossing it into the crowd as his music dies down. His eyes stay locked on his opponent, waiting to hear more.
:Ichiro Tanaka: Why hello to you too Mister Chapman. How are you feeling? Are you sure you are up to a match after your heart... thing? Do you feel rested enough to be taking part in a title match? I don't want to send you back to the hospital so soon after you got out, especially with something so serious.
Ichiro watches Mark, a faint look of concern in his eyes. He even reaches out to pat Mark on the shoulder, as if they were long time friends. The Extreme Chaos champion steps back, shrugging it off. He motions with his hand for a microphone and is promptly handed one after Carly grabs it from the timekeeper.
:Mark Chapman:
I'm perfectly fine, Ichiro. Thank you for your... concern.
His words are laced with a slight sarcasm and he raises a wary eyebrow.
:Mark Chapman:
I don't think I'm going to be the one being sent to a hospital any time soon.
:Ichiro Tanaka: Ooo, I like that. Is that was what you Americans call... spunk is it? Am I using that right? American slang is so tricky, I still don't have a grasp on it. But I do like that confidence, why, it is almost scary to look into those eyes after hearing that. But that is neither here nor there. We could debate about which one of us would come out victorious and exchange threats all day long, but that isn't what I called you out here for. No, I called you out here in order to get you to try something new, something...
Ichiro stands there a moment, looking slightly puzzled, trying to think up a word to end his sentence on. Finally he just shakes his head.
:Ichiro Tanaka: I am sorry, the word just isn't coming to me right now. All you need to know is it is a match you have never been in before.
Mark's lips twist in contemplation and he hesitates before saying anything, stealing a moment to glance around the London crowd before looking back at Ichiro.
:Mark Chapman:
I'm always up for a new challenge.
The words immediately send the fans into a frenzy, forcing him to stop speaking for a few seconds until they quieten down.
:Mark Chapman:
I'm not the kind of guy to back down and shy away from something new. What've you got in mind?
Before Ichiro can even start to speak, two men from the back walk out onto the entrance ramp, each carrying a thing of barbed wire. They make their way to the ring, avoiding eye contact with the fans.
:Ichiro Tanaka: Well, I was thinking, we have this cage you see. It is a nice cage, I would say fifteen tall, though I could be wrong. I was never good with measurements. Anyways, we also had these bats and things of barbed wire...
The men work quickly as Ichiro talks, the ring ropes being removed and replaced with barbed wire, while barbed wired wrapped baseball bats are being carefully placed in the ring.
:Ichiro Tanaka: And I got to thinking, why just use one of these things? Why not combined them into something truly special? So I came up with a match. The rules are simple, you escape from the cage and you win. Not too different from your standard cage match, but as you can see, I have worked into the barbed wire in my own way.
The men finish replacing the ropes with the wire, double checking their handy work before waltzing right back on up to the back. The cage still hasn't descended, still out of sight high above the ring.
:Ichiro Tanaka: What do you say Mark? Sound fun?
Mark looks around him at the new additions to the ring, and then slowly looks up to the cage that is high enough to have been kept out of sight for the night up until now. After a long few moments, he refocuses his gaze on Tanaka.
:Mark Chapman:
I'm not sure "fun" is the adjective I'd use to describe it. But, you're talking to the guy who competed in the first ever Shatterzone and Hi-Rise hell matches.
The crowd roars prematurely, making Mark break into a smirk as he nods his head.
:Mark Chapman:
You're on.
Ichiro smiles at this, the cage suddenly lurching down. It is quite clear now that Ichiro had downplayed its size, being easily twenty feet, possibly even twenty five. In fact, upon closer inspection, it was clear that the cage itself had been laced with barbed wire of its own, some of the barbed even being rusted and stained red with blood from unknown uses.
:Ichiro Tanaka: I promise you, Mark, you won't regret this.
Barbed Wire Hell Match
Extreme Chaos Championship
Mark Chapman vs Ichiro Tanaka
After what seems like ages, the two men lock up. The crowd cheers. Mark uses his size advantage to back Ichiro up into the corner then drives his knee into Ichiro's stomach, then connects with a stiff forearm to Ichiro's face. And another... and another. Chapman pulls Ichiro out of the corner and grabs him by the back of the head, running with him towards the cage. But before Ichiro hits the steel, he quickly breaks free of Mark's grip, and shoves him from behind. Mark stops himself short of being sent into the barbed wire ropes and then turns around - into a well timed dropkick from Ichiro that floors him.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
A nice move by Ichiro Tanaka there. Completely catching Mark Chapman off guard.
:Stevie Howard:
There's a little contrast in styles here - but somewhere in it, it's gonna come together when the violence takes over!
Ichiro is on his feet now as Mark gets to his knees. Ichiro drives a knee into Mark's face and he collapses back down onto the mat. Ichiro drops an elbow to the back of the Extreme Chaos champion and then gets back up to his feet. He pulls Mark up and grabs him then hits him with a scoop slam back down to the mat that shakes the cage. Ichiro drops another elbow onto Mark's back, then pulls him up into a surfboard stretch. Ichiro leans back and drives his kne into the Renegade's lower back repeatedly.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Ichiro is doing the smart thing, and that's targeting a body part to weaken Chapman to make it easier to escape this barb wired cage. Targeting the back makes it slightly easier to disable your opponent, but he can't get sloppy and take it easy on him afterwards.
:Stevie Howard:
Yes he can! I'd rather Mark not have a broken back, thanks.
Ichiro grabs Mark and sets him up on the top rope. Mark grits his teeth as the barbed wire digs into the top of his thighs. Ichiro climbs to the second rope and sets Mark up for a superplex but The Renegade blocks it, elbowing Ichiro in the side of the head repeatedly and Ichiro is reeling! Mark pushes him off of the ropes and down to the mat before doing the smart thing, turning and starting to climb the cage!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Mark's looking to get the hell out of dodge fast.
:Stevie Howard:
Good! Get up there, Mark!
Mark is halfway up the cage when Ichiro gets back to his feet. Mark reaches up and he grabs onto the top of the cage through the barbed wire. Ichiro reaches up and grabs Mark's leg. Mark tries to kick himself free but Ichiro holds on. Ichiro now climbs up the side of the cage, still holding onto Mark's foot. He drives an elbow into Mark's spine and then grabs his head and slams it into the barbed wire and the cage. Mark loses grip on the cage and falls backward. As he falls, he knocks Ichiro down with him!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Both men fell from the top of the cage and it seems like we got our first sign of the crimson here as Mark appears to be busted open!
Both Ichiro and Mark stagger to their feet. Mark takes a swing at Ichiro but he dodges it and swings his own punch at Mark, but that gets ducked as well. Ichiro tries with a second punch and catches Mark in the head! Mark fires back with a shot of his own, connecting with Ichiro's face. Both men go back-and-forth as they exchange punches in the middle of the ring. Mark suddenly charges at Ichiro, scooping his legs out from under him and sending him crashing to the mat. Mark mounts Ichiro and unloads on him with rights and lefts!
:Stevie Howard:
Go, Mark, go!
Ichiro covers up, blocking the punches and grabs Mark's arm as he punches at him. Ichiro twists Mark's arm and uses the leverage to pull Mark off of him. Ichiro now grabs the arm and tries to lock in an armbar. Mark twists his body to avoid the hold and tries to throw a punch with his other arm. Ichiro pulls back on Mark's arm instead. Mark rolls over on the mat, alleviating the pressure.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Ichiro is taking somewhat of an advantage of Mark losing blood, beause it's running into his eyes and that's got to be causing a distraction.
:Stevie Howard:
That, and Mark's back is causing a great deal of pain for him right now. Either way, armbars are not good for him and he needs to get out!
Ichiro pulls back on Mark's arm again. Mark gets to his knees and pushes Ichiro away. Ichiro dives at Mark, locking him in a headlock, but Mark elbows him in the stomach to break free of the hold and then quickly gets to his feet. He tackles Ichiro back down to the mat once again but Tanaka wisely wraps his legs around him and uses his legs to push the champion off of him. Mark responds by grabbing his right leg and driving his elbow into it before locking it up in a single leg crab. He wipes the blood from his face as he tightens the hold. Ichiro tries to use his free leg to kick Mark away. Mark tries to grab the free leg but Ichiro takes the opportunity to push up from the mat with his arms, breaking free of the hold!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Nice break from Tanaka there.
:Stevie Howard:
I'm disappointed so far. This is supposed to be a brutal match!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Your boy is bleeding. Is that not enough for you?
Mark immediately goes after Ichiro's leg again, but Ichiro spins with his legs and manages to kick Mark off and into the barbed wired ropes. Mark hits the ropes chest first and leans there as the fans groan. Ichiro stands up and waits for Mark to pull himself back up and when he does, he charges in - only to have Mark move out of the way of a leaping Ichiro who crashes into the ropes! He sags, and pulls the barbed wire ropes down with him. Mark stands up now as Ichiro crumples to the mat, bleeding from his chest. Mark hits a swift kick to Ichiro's stomach and then he delivers another to the side of Ichiro's leg.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Chapman back in control now, as Tanaka's chest hits that barbed wire in an extremely nasty fashion.
:Stevie Howard:
Yay!
Mark steps back and waits for Ichiro to get up, then delivers a superkick that floors the youngster. Mark reaches down and pulls Ichiro to his feet, and Irish whips Ichiro off into the cage and barbed wire. Ichiro bounces back shakily like a ball from concrete and Mark tries for a clothesline, but Ichiro ducks and Mark turns around just as Ichiro delivers a backhand chop. He then grabs Mark's head and sends him flying into the cage over the barbed wire ropes.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Desperation manoeuvre from Tanaka, You can see the puddles of blood on the mat from this match. The mat is turning into a sponge here tonight!
Ichiro reaches through the barb wire and pulls Mark up, and slams his head off the cage repeatedly before grinding his face against it. He pulls Mark back across the barb wired ropes and you can hear Mark scream from the pain as Ichiro leans on him then lets go. As Mark begins to crumple on the barbwire Ichiro backs up, then takes a running charge at Mark, driving both of his knees into the Renegade's back and forcing the barbed wire to dig in, as well as smashing Mark against the cage again. Mark crumbles down and falls backwards into the ring through the broken barbwire ropes. Ichiro walks over to the corner of the cage and grabs a barbwire covered baseball bat.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Ichiro Tanaka seems to have more evil intentions on his mind now.
:Stevie Howard:
If Mark Chapman isn't hurt now he's about to get seriously hurt now.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
If Mark Chapman isn't hurt now, I'd eat my hat - hell, I'd eat my hair.
Ichiro walks over to Mark, who's crawling to the center of the ring. He lifts the bat over his head and then slams it down across Mark's back, and then again and again. Ichiro looks down at him for a moment, then turns to look back at the cage. He walks away from Mark and starts to climb.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Tanaka ascending the cage and if he makes it, we have a new Extreme Chaos Champion!
Ichiro glances back at Mark over his shoulder, and then continues to climb. Mark once again uses the barbwire ropes to pull himself up, blanking the pain. He stumbles over towards Ichiro and now starts to climb the cage. He grabs Ichiro's foot causing Ichiro to stop climbing to try and shake Mark off. Mark climbs some more. He now grabs Ichiro around the waist, leans backwards but Ichiro has a death grip on the cage and its barbwire.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Just think how much pain that must be causing Tanaka!
Mark roars through gritted teeth as he uses his strength to pull back some more, causing the barbwire to dig into Ichiro's hands! Ichiro has to let go and both men go flying as Mark sends Ichiro across the ring with a german suplex off of the cage!
:Stevie Howard:
Mark Chapman just pulled and threw Ichiro Tanaka off of the cage like a rag doll.
The crowd cheers as both men come crashing off the side of the cage and into the mat! Mark is the first to push off of the mat. Ichiro tries to pull himself up with the cage and get away from Mark as he tries to stand up. But Mark's back gives out on him. He hobbles over to the cage, using it to hold himself up.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
There we can see the damage done to Mark Chapman's back in this match.
:Stevie Howard:
It hurts just to think about.
Ichiro is still trying to get himself back into the match as he breathes leaning on the cage. Mark shakes his arm and checks his back, trying to regain the feeling in it. Ichiro slowly starts to stir as he starts to make his way over to Mark - and that's when out of nowhere Mark spears Ichiro back down to the mat! Both men are down and out on the mat as the fans erupt.
:Stevie Howard:
This match has taken its toll on both competitors its only a matter of time before it's gonna end.
Mark climbs to his feet now. He uses the cage to steady himself, then pulls Ichiro up. He locks his head up for a DDT but as he falls down to the mat, it is revealed that he's actually locked Ichiro into a guillotine choke! The fans cheer as Ichiro begins to tap - but the there's no referee to count it! As he tries to find a way out of it the fans are cheering Mark, but Ichiro finally manages to pull Mark off the mat and uses whatever strength he has and drives Mark into the corner back first, crushing him against the barbed wire.
:Stevie Howard:
It took that much pain to get Mark to release the hold!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Kudos to Tanaka, though, for using his environment like that!
Ichiro drives his shoulder into Mark's abdomen again and again before grabbing him by his head and slamming Mark into the ring post shoulder first. Ichiro backs out for a bit, then delivers a running knee smash, driving Mark's head into the post.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
The Rokudenashi. I bet nothing has hit Mark that hard since probably whatever recreational drug you can think of.
Mark falls back into the ring as Ichiro leans against the cage and tries to catch his breath as the blood flows from and open wound of his arm. He then tries to climb the cage - that arm is causing him trouble as he can't grip with full strength. Mark lays on the mat out cold and the fans start to rally behind him to try and get him up from the mat to do something.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Ichiro Tanaka having trouble scaling that cage, thanks to his cut-open arm.
:Stevie Howard:
And these fans are trying their best to get Mark Chapman back into this match in any way, shape or form.
Ichiro straightens up and grits his teeth, and forces himself to scale the cage. Meanwhile Mark starts to show signs of life as he rolls over and pushes himself up onto his feet slowly, and grips his back making a painful grimace. He turns and notices Ichiro scaling the cage. He stumbles over towards that side of the cage and begins to climb it slowly, fighting off any pain he is feeling to prevent Ichiro from winning this match.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Both men now climbing!
Ichiro makes it to the top of the cage first and tries to fight his way through the barbwire before resorting to sitting on it as Mark pulls himself up. He also sits astride the barbed wire there with Ichiro, and both men begin to trade blows. Ichiro blocks one punch and tries to spit a black mist into Mark's face but Mark puts his arms up to block it! He quickly grabs Ichiro by his head and slams into into the barbwire and top of the cage.
:Stevie Howard:
Holy shit!
Ichiro loses his balance on the top of the cage and falls off the side towards the mat - but his foot gets caught up in the barbwire!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Oh my god!
:Stevie Howard:
He's hanging by his leg from the barbwire!
Mark looks at Ichiro, and then at the crowd. He gets free of the barbwire himself, then starts to scale down the side of the cage. As he comes near the dangling Ichiro, the Japanese star tries to throw punches at Mark, but Mark moves around him. The Renegade leaps down from the cage and the ref calls for the bell, then jogs around the ring with the Extreme Chaos title, which he hands to Chapman.
:Carly Mitchell:
The winner of the match and still Extreme Chaos Champion, MAAAARRRRK! CHAPMAAAAAAAANNNN!!!!!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Earlier tonight, we received a very special pretaped segment; the first edition of Shelly Hollins's talk show, The Shelly Show!
:Stevie Howard:
While I'm sure I'll be mocking the name mercilessly, right now, I want to compliment her on the guest; former GEW World champion James Magnum-Reed!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Who has a beast of a challenge ahead of him tonight in the form of Kameron Chase! Without any further ado, let's take you to our special pre recorded feature, the debut edition of The Shelly Show!
We cut to the footage from The Shelly Show, starting with an establishing shot; the camera pans a fancy living room set. There's a fireplace providing warmth and backlighting for the interview segment. Plush, white leather expensive furniture lines the room. The walls are adorned with posters of past GEW pay per views, each with a lavish gold picture frame. In the center of the room sits an ornate, decorated table, covered in copies of GEW dvd's and other merchandise, with several magazines laid out, fan style, to illustrate the fact all of them displayed have some sort of image of Magnum, usually as the cover's centerpiece.
Some are action shots, while others are stock images. Shelly, herself, is dressed up in a dark grey pants suit, with matching jacket, both tailored exactly to her diminutive frame. The only bit of color is the expensive silver watch adorning her wrist. She's holding, and reading over, a loose-leaf notebook. She flips the papers; it's clearly a computer printout, with an occasional image, and the margins crammed with handwritten notes.
A small, professional looking "The Shelly Show" appears on the lower right hand of the screen in fancy cursive letters, for a handful or seconds. There's something of theme music, too. The kind of peppy, upbeat jazzy instrumental you'd expect to find on a morning talk show.
The music and image fade as Shelly looks into the camera, graciously smiling as the limited number of staff politely applaud. Shelly nods, giving it a few seconds to settle in.
:Shelly Hollins:
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the premiere edition of "The Shelly Show." Our lavish settings compliment perfectly our debut guest. He very recently reigned as our world champion for a span of a hundred forty five days. We had originally planned to do this interview while he wore the world championship, but... personal issues forced us to delay the show. Welcome to the Shelly Show.. James Magnum.
Shelly turns to await his entry.
James walks onto the stage and looks around at the emptiness. He nods at her as he walks over, taking a seat on the other side of her.
:James Magnum-Reed:
Don't forget the Reed part people might think I'm single again. But yeah I'm glad I can be here for this. Especially, as the first guest.
Shelly sits down as well, preparing to dive eagerly into this interview. She glances one last time over her notes before she begins.
:Shelly Hollins:
Ah, right, James Magnum-Reed it is. Is there anything you'd like to say before we officially begin?
:James Magnum-Reed:
Sure, I just want to say that I'm really happy to be here and hopefully we can get to the things you want to know about me. I know myself and Wilde have had some issues but you seem like a lovely person and I'm sure we can do this respectfully.
:Shelly Hollins:
I would agree, and respectfully submit you can understand what it's like being in a relationship with a strong-willed, independent partner.
James moves his head back, a little bit staggered by the question.
:James Magnum-Reed:
My 'partner isn't really independent. We're a team, we have a sense of who we are and we love each other very much. Everything is fifty-fifty with us. I mean if it wasn't for that we'd be separated already. But we're just strong together.
:Shelly Hollins:
You might be surprised by how familiar that sounds. You've been through some rather trying pay per view events lately that I'd like to touch on momentarily, but before we get to that subject, let's try to get a little insight into the man who sits before us. I understand you're a ten year veteran. Despite only arriving at Global Extreme Wrestling a couple years ago, you've been dubbed with the Hall of Fame status. You've also picked up numerous accolades in your career. You're accomplished, acclaimed and by all accounts somewhat controversial as well. What do you cite as the secret to your success in Global Extreme Wrestling thus far?
:James Magnum-Reed:
It all boils down to hard work, and nobody works harder than me in this business in my opinion. While others are out partying, I'm working on my body or my mind. I've never thought to myself that I'm good enough. It's all about getting better every night. Every single night it's about becoming a little bit better. I'm never satisfied with what I've done. I always want more.
:Shelly Hollins:
Then the obvious follow up question would be as such. What sets you apart from numerous others who've made the same claims of such haughty dedication!
:James Magnum-Reed:
The eighteen world titles, the countless work, the main eventing every show. I mean, I don't run my mouth as much anymore but not that much has changed. I don't have a lot to prove and I still end up taking myself to a new level. When I become satisfied I'll probably retire but I don't see that happening. Others become satisfied, they rest. I still wake up at five thirty in the morning to train and I still spend more time in front of the monitor watching matches than anyone in the game just studying.
There's a brief pause before he continues.
:James Magnum-Reed:
I have drive that no one can explain. My wife allows me to have it and so do my kids. I sacrifice time with them and they understand. They wait for me, ever so patiently when I have to be a monster and do twenty three hours of nose to grindstone work. That's what separates me. The mental aspect. The way I do things I have to earn it every day. I still have a guaranteed world title shot if I want one but that's not me. I'm not going to take the easy road. That's why I'm the best. I don't need the help I could have. I do everything the way it should be done. No one will ever work as hard as me ever. Not for what I want.
:Shelly Hollins:
As I understand it, you've changed a good deal since your first world title win outside Global Extreme Wrestling, when you won the title from Midnight; how was it different than when you win a title now?
James jerks his head back with a smirk and mouths the word 'wow'.
:James Magnum-Reed:
Did your homework for this, didn't you? Okay, fact is that I've become a better person for one. I just wanted to win the belt for the sake of winning it at that point. There was no extra motivation. I mean when I was walking around then I just wanted paid, laid, and to look good. I demanded things then, now it's all about proving myself. I don't have a Robin to my Batman anymore. Every match is a test and I plan on proving that I'm better. I hate the fact that I wasn't more like that back then because there wouldn't be a question who the best of time is then. I would have that locked up forever.
Shelly leans forward, seeming to get more interested with each answer that passes.
:Shelly Hollins:
So you don't feel you've achieved your lofty goal yet?
:James Magnum-Reed:
I'll never achieve my goal. That's what keeps me alive. That and I know they wait for me. That my family understands that this is who I am. That if I'm not the best wrestling in the world, I'm just another guy. That's not good enough for me. My heart will never be content with what I've accomplished. I've never be happy with my career. It's never going to be enough. Just the way I am.
Shelly quickly shuffles through her notes at his response.
:Shelly Hollins:
Hm, not quite the answer I was expecting. Is there anything you'd like to say to elaborate on it?
:James Magnum-Reed:
When getting laid is the most important thing to you, you're not your best. I can't say that things have been perfect lately but I know what I have to focus on. Being the figure I am, while others are doing insane stuff I'm busting ass. Back then I relied on natural talent, now as my age catches up to me a little bit. I'm learning to rely on my mind not just the gifts god gave me.
:Shelly Hollins:
I can certainly appreciate your dedication to your craft.
:James Magnum-Reed:
You're a manager, you should understand that more than anymore. You have to keep people focused. I just don't need that. I have my eyes on the prize twenty four seven. Nothing can peal me away from that. Just like you should knowing that you've become a leader is what makes your great. Once you realize that you're the guy or the girl that needs to set everything in place. You do it and its hard work at times but I think it's worth it.
Shelly nods, being again a little surprised by the response.
:Shelly Hollins:
An excellent comparison, actually, and one I can relate to quite well. For managing, though it's more about keeping things controlled for other people. Handling the responsibilities they either don't have the time or talent for, or simply wish to avoid.
James gives her a slight smirk.
:James Magnum-Reed:
Most people aren't me. They can't go like that. You have an awesome job. One that I held for a while. It's just once you realize that you NEED a manager, you shouldn't be considered great.
Shelly leans forward slightly, finding the remark quite interesting. You can see her debating and analyzing in her mind from the look in her twin brown eyes.
:Shelly Hollins:
That's interesting. I'm actually quite tempted to let that subject hijack the rest of the interview, but I understand your time, like mine, of something of a valuable rarity these days. With that unfortunate fact in mind, I'd like to move on to our next subject, if you please.
Magnum rolls his eyes at the comment. He just wanted to make a point that she's useless in his mind when it came to the wrestling business.
:James Magnum-Reed:
Well, you're right why should we discuss your work when it's pitiful and for people that can't handle responsibility. So what's the next topic?
Shelly winces, though it was barely visible to the average eye. You could almost see the enjoyment of the conversation drain from her face in that one instant.
:Shelly Hollins:
Hm.. I'm curious if your under considered, self important opinion applies to management types such as our boss Chelsea as well?
:James Magnum-Reed:
My wife works her ass off doing work that no one else really can. I mean I do everything a manager does and more. I help produce and help with the shows while doing all the normal things which the people you manage can't. My wife is great at her job and it's important.
He says this staring her down. Shelly doesn't bother to look in his eyes, too busy flipping through her notes.
:Shelly Hollins:
Ah, yes, and I'm sure if allowed your own opinion, it would be much the same as that, hmm?
He starts to laugh at her comment. He knows this was typical fauter for people towards him.
:James Magnum-Reed:
My wife controls nothing about me. I'm my own person. If it was up to her, I'd probably cash in my rematch for the belt now. I'd probably not go to church every week, and I'd probably not work every night. So, yeah I do what I want as long as it doesn't affect the marriage and I say what I want.
:Shelly Hollins:
Maybe for the sake of professionalism, we should move on to our next subject.
James thinks for a moment. He doesn't want to let go of it but he has to so he doesn't look bad.
:James Magnum-Reed:
I think that would be a very good idea.
:Shelly Hollins:
You're set to face Kameron Chase at the pay per view. The history between you two is legendary.
James sits up looking towards Shelly. His feelings about Kameron are pretty well known.
:James Magnum-Reed:
Kameron was like a brother. This is why it's so hard is this business to do the right thing. Sometimes you have to do the wrong thing to keep ahead and you never want to take out your best friend.
:Shelly Hollins:
Thus, you make incest jokes instead, per Extreme Extravaganza.
Shelly's so dry with the question, it's hard to tell if she's serious or sarcastic.
:Shelly Hollins:
A lot of people are expecting a rather brutal affair here, despite the professed good feelings between you two.
James glares but still wanting to keep it professional, he looks down at the ground.
:James Magnum-Reed:
It'll be brutal because he is. That's what he'll want. He's always trying to prove something. As am I but mine doesn't lead to mindless violence which I'll have to resort to just to survive.
:Shelly Hollins:
You've both taken part in some rather brutal matches in the past, though. Are you actually claiming you'd prefer to have a more scientific match? A contest of wit and mat acclaim, rather than determination and brutality?
James looks towards the ceiling as he cracked his knuckles loudly.
:James Magnum-Reed:
I don't really care. I wrestle in the match they book me in. I like to wrestle technically as much as I like to brawl. It's what I think about every day. Doing what I love something most don't even consider.
:Shelly Hollins:
I have an ample number of subjects we could cover, but I'm not really sure which to pursue.
James interrupts her quickly.
:James Magnum-Reed:
I'm out of time anyways so we can do this another time if you don't mind.
:Shelly Hollins:
Yes, of course. It would be an honor to continue this discussion at a future date. Thank you for joining us!
She quickly stands to shake his hand.
:Shelly Hollins:
Best of luck in your match tonight.
James ignores the hand shake and her for the most part.
:James Magnum-Reed:
I'm the greatest world champion ever. The last thing I need is luck.
:Shelly Hollins:
Then I look forward to seeing what you can prove out there.
:James Magnum-Reed:
I have nothing to prove.
He says this stepping away from her as he starts towards the exits. As he passes the emergency fire extinguisher he grabs it. And puts it through one of the windows on set. Shelly winches slightly at the actions then smiles slightly.
:Shelly Hollins:
I feel sorry for you if that ever becomes true...
Shelly pauses, and turns to collect her notes as the camera fades.
"Perfect Strangers" by Deep Purple blasts over the PA system as James Magnum walks out from the curtain.
:Carly Mitchell:
From Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania...
Magnum begins his slow walk down the ramp.
:Carly Mitchell:
...he weighs in at two hundred and twenty pounds...
As he gets to the steps, pyro goes off all around the arena. He then walks up the steel steps onto the apron, and enters through the ropes as held open for him by the referee.
:Carly Mitchell:
...MAGNUUUUM!
James moves to his corner, awaiting the bell.
:Carly Mitchell:
And his opponent...
The intro from Army of Anyone's "Father Figure" plays for a few seconds before fading into a silence. The lights in the arena dim to a state of almost complete darkness as a growing echo takes over the sound system. A single blue strobe light pulsates with the vibrations, becoming stronger as the echo gets louder and as it reaches it's climax the house lights brighten slightly as Union Underground's "Natural High" kicks in.
"SUCH A NATURAL HIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGH"
Kameron Chase throws back the curtain and makes his way out onto the staging area; a smug grin on his face as he glances around the arena through his Aviators while the blue spotlight shines down on him.
:Carly Mitchell:
From Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania...
"I'm not your saviour; no fuckin' lie,
Naaaaaaaaaaatural (It's a natural) Hiiiiiiiiiiiigh (Such a natural), it's a..."
I'd kill myself to stay alive,
Forget the future; regret the past,
No present tense is gonna last.
Raising his shades up onto his head Kameron starts down the ramp towards the ring at a relatively slow pace, absently slapping the hands of a couple of fans.
"Naaaaaaaaaaatural (It's a natural) Hiiiiiiiiiiiigh (Such a natural), it's a...
Swimming in a sea of a jealous tide wont wash your hate away,
Selling your soul for a piece of mind; can't buy yourself today,
Aint it funny how the power, the money, the consistency of the truth,
Bleed today but laugh tomorrow in the burden of our youth."
As the instrumental takes over, he hops up onto the apron on one knee. Holding onto the middle rope, he takes one last glance around the arena before getting to his feet and climbing into the ring through the ropes.
:Carly Mitchell:
Weighing two hundred and fifteen pounds...
Kameron rounds Carly, making his way over to one of the corners
"Swimming in a sea of a jealous tide won't wash your hate away (Such a natural high)
Selling your soul for a piece of mind; can't buy yourself today (Such a natural high)
Ain't it funny how the power, the money, the consistency of the truth (Such a natural high)
Bleed today but laugh tomorrow in the burden of our youth (Such a natural high)."
Standing on the middle rope in the corner, Kameron points a finger out at the crowd surrounding him, muttering inaudible words.
:Carly Mitchell:
...KAMERON CHASE!
He slaps his chest, nods his head and then jumps down from the turnbuckle, taking off his shades and handing them to the referee as he jumps up and down on the spot, ready for his match
Singles Match
Magnum vs Kameron Chase
The two men stand across the ring from each other, with only the referee separating them as they wait for the bell. The intensity in the eyes of the two brothers-in-law is clear to see as they stare holes through each other.
:Stevie Howard:
Man, if looks could kill...
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
You're absolutely right, Stevie, this is a match that nobody wants to miss. Two former best friends - brothers, even - turned enemies. It isn't anything we haven't seen before, but the circumstances this time around are very different. Kameron Chase made the challenge and there was nothing Magnum could do to get out of it.
The referee runs through the rules but neither man seems to be paying much attention as their eyes remain locked. The bell rings as the official steps out of the way and the two competitors step forward to meet in the center, foreheads pressed together as they trash-talk. Magnum breaks the war of words by shoving Chase hard in the chest, sending him stumbling back a few steps. He quickly retaliates with a vicious right hand to Magnum's jaw that puts him down, much to the delight of the London crowd.
:Stevie Howard:
HA! Now that's a punch! Magnum should know better than to shove someone like a pussy.
Magnum is quickly back up to his feet, holding his jaw and glaring at Chase who just shrugs his shoulders and then beckons him forward for a tie-up. Magnum obliges, and the two clash in the center of the ring in the collar-and-elbow position. Magnum gets the initial advantage, grabbing Kameron's left arm and twisting it out into a wrist lock. The Natural Disaster grimaces and then drops to a knee as Magnum keeps his grip firm... until Chase rolls out of it and back up to his feet.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
These two know each other so well, it's going to be interesting to see if either of them changes their game to try and throw the other off.
:Stevie Howard:
Or they could wrestle each other blindfolded. That would be fun and show just how well they REALLY know each other!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
What IS it with you and blindfolds anyway?
Magnum backs away as Kameron exercises his arm before signalling for another lock-up. Again, Magnum agrees and they tie-up again. Magnum takes the advantage again, this time switching behind Chase and locking him in a waist-lock. He lurches back, trying to take Kameron over with a German suplex but he manages to stay grounded. Magnum tries again but, once more, Chase keeps his feet on the ground, starting to try to pry Magnum's hands apart. Failing to do so, he instead stamps down hard on his opponent's foot and the shock of it forces Magnum to break the hold as the crowd roar. Kameron then turns around and clocks Magnum in the face with a forearm.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Well, that's one way to break a hold!
:Stevie Howard:
Genius!
As Magnum is reeling from the shot, Chase backs him into the ropes and then whips him across the ring, catching him with an arm drag as he comes back. Both are quickly back on their feet and Kameron takes Magnum down again with a second armdrag. Again, they're both up quickly but this time Magnum halts his run and kicks Chase in the gut, doubling him over. He clubs him a couple of times on the back before driving him down to the mat with a DDT. He covers...
ONE!
TWO!
Chase kicks out.
:Stevie Howard:
Like he was ever gonna get the win from that.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Worth a try, Stevie.
Magnum gets up and then reaches down to grab Kameron and pull him up to his feet. He plants a knee to his stomach and then runs with him, throwing him shoulder first into the turnbuckle. Chase drops to a knee and Magnum moves over to him, pulling him up and grabbing the back of his head before slamming him face-first off the top turnbuckle pad. Chase staggers back and Magnum drops down and rolls him up.
ONE!
TWO!
THR--
No! Chase powers out of it in time and quickly rolls up to his feet. Magnum is up just as quickly and manages to duck a swinging punch from Kameron but then gets caught with a European cut. Magnum reels backwards and Chase runs towards him, planting him to the mat with a strong STO.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Chase doesn't seem to be going for his usual Anaconda vice follow up. I think he knows it's too early for that.
:Stevie Howard:
But it'd be worth a try, right?
Instead of trying to end it, he reaches down and grabs a handful of Magnum's hair, pulling him back up to his feet. Chase dazes him with a few solid punches and then whips him into the ropes, slamming him with a spinebuster when he comes back. This time he covers...
ONE!
TWO!
Magnum gets a shoulder up. Chase shrugs and climbs back to his feet, stomping on Magnum while he's still down before bending to pull him back up to a vertical base. Magnum fights him off with several elbow shots to the ribs and then straightens up and clocks him with a hard punch to the temple that sends him down. He shrugs off the crowd's booing with a cocky smirk and then drops a knee on Kameron.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
As predicted, this match is very back-and-forth. Nobody has the clear advantage here just yet and it could still go either way.
:Stevie Howard:
Well, at least Stevie Wonder knows how it's going now.
With Chase still down, Magnum hits the ropes and comes back again with a knee drop, this time with more elevation and impact. He hooks a leg...
ONE!
TWO!
Chase lifts a shoulder right after two. Magnum grabs the back of his head, lifting it off of the canvas and then hammering away with right hands until the referee warns him and forcibly pulls him away, warning him about the use of a closed fist.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Good officiating there from Philip Bowden. He's not afraid of disqualifying Magnum if he has to.
:Stevie Howard:
Yeah, apart from the fact we've seen plenty of punches in this match already that he's let go.
Stepping away, Magnum gives Kameron time to get back to his feet and he uses the rope as an aid to do so. Magnum charges in at him but Chase lifts a boot, connecting with his brother-in-law's face and sending him stumbling back several steps. Moving away from the ropes, Kameron follows up with a lower kick to Magnum's midsection and then hooks him up for a suplex. Magnum blocks the attempted lift by wrapping his leg around Kameron's but he counters with a few solid punches to Magnum's ribs and he retreats as Kameron snaps him over with a quick suplex and floats over into a cover.
ONE!
TWO!
THR--
Magnum kicks out in time.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
There have been several near falls for both of these men, but so far neither has managed to do enough damage to pick up that vital three count.
:Stevie Howard:
Well, if they had, we wouldn't still be watching this!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Must you counter everything I say with some sarcastic remark?
:Stevie Howard:
Yes. It's in my job description.
Chase brings Magnum to his feet again and switches to behind him, quickly rolling him up for another pin attempt.
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
No! Magnum kicks out again just in time. Chase gets up to his feet and so does Magnum, turning quickly to duck a swing from Chase and going low with a punch himself. Chase lurches over and Magnum grabs him by the hand, throwing him into the corner. He charges at him and launches himself with a splash but Kameron moves out of the way, leaving Magnum to connect sternum-first with the top turnbuckle. Chase waits and then rolls him up again!
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
Another kickout from Magnum.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Chase seems intent on ending this one as quickly as possible. That's three pinfall attempts in quick succession.
:Stevie Howard:
Well, it is his first match back since his injury. He doesn't wanna risk hurting himself again and ending up back on the sidelines.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
That may be the smartest thing you've said all night.
:Stevie Howard:
Smart? It's common sense.
Both hall of famers are on their feet at the same time but instead of charging at one another, they both step back, looking to slow the pace of the match down. Breathing heavily, they stare directly at each other before starting to circle the ring. Much like earlier, Chase motions for a tie-up. Magnum nods his head and they both advance to the center of the ring but as Kameron goes to lock up, Magnum kicks him in the stomach.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Low and dirty tactics from Magnum there, but it's nothing we haven't seen before.
He follows the kick up with a stiff European uppercut that almost sends Chase down but he manages to stay on his feet and just staggers backwards. Magnum advances on him and presses him back against the ropes before whipping him across the ring. Chase rebounds off of the ropes and gets drilled with a vicious spear! He covers...
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
NO!!!! Kameron just manages to lift his shoulder off the mat slightly before the referee's hand can connect with the canvas a third time. Magnum grits his teeth and shakes his head, pulling himself back up to his feet. He looks down at Kameron and then hits the ropes, coming back and looking for a knee drop much like before but Chase scouts it and rolls out of the way, leaving Magnum to hit the canvas hard.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
I thought that spear might have done it, but Chase isn't out yet!
:Stevie Howard:
Of course he isn't! He's related to Mark... it's gonna take more than that!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Oh, how opinions change.
Both men stay down on the canvas, getting their breath back as the referee checks them both. Chase is up to a knee first but Magnum isn't far behind him. Simultaneously they get to their feet, Kameron with his back to his opponent. As he turns around, Magnum rushes him, looking for the Murdering a Motherfucker but Kameron JUST manages to duck it and runs into the ropes. As he comes back, Magnum turns and gets drilled with an STO! Chase looks to lock him up in an anaconda vice but he scrambles away frantically, grabbing onto the ropes to force a break before the hold can even be locked in.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Both men are clearly looking to end this now. Magnum missed with the Murdering a Motherfucker, and Chase unable to complete the Kamokaze. It's still anybody's game here!
Chase gets up and backs away as Magnum keeps hold of the ropes and pulls himself up using them. Kameron advances on him and Magnum looks to defend with a kick to the gut but Chase catches his boot and slams it down to the mat. Magnum pulls away from the ropes, hitting Kameron with a cheap right hand and then successfully kicking him in the gut this time. Chase doubles over and Magnum hooks him up for a suplex.
:Stevie Howard:
I can't even call this one!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Well, I think everybody knew coming into it that it would be a close one.
Chase breaks out of the headlock, punching James in the mid-section repeatedly until he lets go then without hesitation, kicks him in the stomach to bend him over and ducks, hauling him up onto his back.
:Stevie Howard:
MENTAL MAELSTROM! MENTAL MAELSTROM!
Stevie is right! Chase drops down with his finishing move and holds for the cover...
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
:Carly Mitchell:
Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this match... The Natural Disaster...KAAAAAMEROOON CHAAAAAAAAAAASE!
The crowd erupt as Chase releases Magnum as climbs to his feet in time for the referee to raise his hand in victory. He looks down at his brother-in-law with a smirk, yelling something to him that is inaudible before wasting no time in leaving the ring and starting up the ramp.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Chase victorious tonight. He's sent a clear warning to Magnum and all of Chelsea's Angels. Kameron Chase is back!
The camera cuts to the back where Chelsea Reed is sitting in her office, watching the show on a TV screen in front of her. She shakes her head as she watches Kameron make his way to the back as her husband slowly brings himself to his knees in the ring, looking shocked.
:Chelsea Reed:
I don't believe it!
With a grunt of frustration, she launches the remote control she holds in her hand at the screen and then lets her head fall into her hands, gripping her hair with her fingers as the show fades back to ringside.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Well, Chelsea Reed doesn't look too happy with that result.
:Stevie Howard:
Haha, too bad! Sucks to be the boss lady!
"Scream Aim and Fire" by Bullet For My Valentine blares over the speakers as Troy Gafgen comes through the back curtain. The fans boo as he shrugs them off while raising the GEW World Title high above his head. As he walks down the ramp he ignores the boos and jeers. He slides into the ring and takes more time to gloat before asking for a microphone.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Well, I wonder what Troy has to say?
:Stevie Howard:
Probably talk about facing Gabriella.
:Troy Gafgen:
Well, I guess from the warm response, you all are delighted to see me.
The fans respond with more boos.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Guess not.
:Troy Gafgen:
Well, many people, including myself were thinking that I was facing Gabriella tonight. Well, that isn't the case. I mean ever since the tag match that her and Scott lost, nobody has seen her. I can't blame her though, it's tough to realize that she would be competing with the man who won this belt in the concrete cage...the man who has proved that he was well worth the time of day...me. You see, I don't think I'm the best...everyone knew I was the best. I showed everyone how much this title means to me and I intended on keeping it. Gabriella was frightened at the fact that if she stood in the ring with me, when my belt was on the line...she wouldn't make it out. Again, I cannot blame her. I am the top of the damn food chain!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Gafgen showing his overwhelming arrogance.
:Stevie Howard:
Yeah, he hasn't even defended the belt yet.
:Troy Gafgen
So, with that all said, I guess I don't have a match tonight. It's a shame really, because now I cannot grace you people with my first of many title defenses. I mean, no one is worthy of being my challenger. So I guess I'll just go in the back, polish my title and then return home because I wasted my fucking time coming out here when I didn't even need to! Goodnight!
Troy waves to the fans with a cocky smirk on his face before turning his head to breathe on the championship belt resting on his shoulder and then polishing the plate with his hand.
:Stevie Howard:
Well, that was a complete waste of time.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
I guess Troy just came out here tonight to get some kind of pay-per-view bonus on his pay check. At least he showed up, even if it was just to tell everybody goodnight.
Troy adjusts the strap on his shoulder and then heads toward the ropes, ready to leave the ring.
He stepped out of that garden and let me tell ya this....he had God-like power!
The heavy opening of Chimaira's "Power Trip" kicks in immediately with flashing blue lights hitting the staging area. The fans instantly rise to their feet, cheering as Troy stops mid-way between the ropes and looks up the entrance ramp.
:Stevie Howard:
What?! Mark?!
During the initial scream, Mark Chapman steps out through the curtain, a little less energetically than he normally would with the Extreme Chaos championship over his shoulder. He stands on the staging area, a microphone in one hand as he holds the small of his back with the other, clearly feeling the effects of the brutal match he'd gone through earlier in the night.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Mark Chapman just cut Troy's exit short. The champion isn't going anywhere right now, but I'm not sure what Chapman wants. We saw him in action earlier on tonight in that barbaric barbed wire hell match and it's obvious he's still in pain from it.
Chapman signals for his music to be cut as he looks down the ramp to Troy, who has now straightened back up in the ring as is looking right back at The Renegade, confusion set on his face. Mark brings the microphone to his lips.
:Mark Chapman:
Sorry to rain on your parade, Troy. I know you wanted to come out here and just rub into the faces of the fans that you'd be leaving tonight still with the World Championship in your possession.
As Mark pauses, Troy nods his head in confirmation.
:Mark Chapman:
Well, Troy... I'm here to tell you that it's not going to be that simple.
:Stevie Howard:
What is he talking about?
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
It looks like he's about to elaborate.
:Mark Chapman:
One year ago, at Open Season, I won the Commonwealth Cup. One year ago, I guaranteed myself a championship shot of my choosing within the year. Tonight, the contract runs out. Now, I know... a lot has happened since I won that match. I was fired from the company and subsequently my contract was put up in a match between Dwight Mare and Gabriella, which Gabriella won, as everybody knows. And, as everybody also knows, she'd planned to cash in the title shot tonight, against you. But sadly, Gabriella isn't here tonight and it seems such a shame for that contract to go to waste...
:Stevie Howard:
He's not gonna...
There's uproar amongst the fans as they realize what Chapman is getting to. He smiles and nods his head as Troy frowns, thinking, along with the commentators, that Chapman is in no state to throw himself into another match.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Mark Chapman has already competed in one match here tonight, and you can see the battle wounds he picked up. I don't know how smart it is of him to do what it sounds like he's about to...
:Mark Chapman:
So, when I heard that Gabriella wasn't here tonight, I went to Oliver Queen and pleaded my case. As the original winner of 2009's Commonwealth Cup, Troy, I'm here to tell you that you WILL be in action tonight and you'll be defending your pretty little championship against me.
Troy's eyes widen as he takes a step back.
:Troy Gafgen:
Mark, you need to think about what you're doing. You've competed earlier in the night and now you think that you can just come out here and tell me what's going to happen? Well Mark, I have to say this was a long time coming and now I am going to have to put you in your place.
The fans boo at Gafgen's statement as Mark chuckles.
:Troy Gafgen:
I carried your ass when we were tag champions and if I recall correctly you screwed me out of an international championship match a while back so you're overdue. If you really think that you're up to getting into the ring with a top notch champion like me, then show me what you've got, pretty boy.
Troy drops the mic and slides his championship to the side as he motions for Mark to come to the ring.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Chapman vs Gafgen! I cannot believe it!
:Stevie Howard:
Neither can I Crell. This ought to be epic!
Mark sets the microphone down on the stage along with his belt and pulls his shirt off over his head, revealing the cuts sustained in the barbed wire match and then starts down to the ring as the crowd chant his name. Troy readies himself, waiting for Mark to slide in but The Renegade shakes his head and taps a finger against his temple, letting him know he's not that stupid as he moves around to the ring steps and climbs them.
:Stevie Howard:
Haha! He's not falling for that one! He's not leaving himself open for Troy to get the first shot in!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
That may be a smart move, but I have to question Chapman's intelligence for even making this challenge.
Singles Match
World Championship
Troy Gafgen vs Mark Chapman
As Mark steps onto the ring apron, Troy throws a punch at him but he ducks and thrusts his shoulder between the ropes, catching Troy in the gut and backing him up enough to allow him to get into the ring without the chance of an attack. Chapman climbs through the ropes as the bell rings and kicks Troy in the mid-section, doubling him over and then clubbing him on the back until he goes down to one knee. Mark then puts Troy in a chin lock. Troy struggles but is able to get back up to his feet and he backs Mark up to the ropes. He sends Mark across the ring. Mark rebounds and Troy hits a shoulder tackle which sends Mark down. Troy then runs to the ropes and goes for an elbow drop but Mark moves out of the way as Troy's elbow crashes onto the canvas.
:Stevie Howard:
STUPID! Go Mark! GOOO!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
It's only the beginning of the match, Stevie...so calm down.
Chapman gets up to his feet and waits for Troy, who gets up holding his elbow. Mark moves toward him and grabs him by the hand, whipping him into the ropes. As the champion comes back, Mark sends him over with a hiptoss and then kicks him hard in the spine, the sound echoing through the arena.
:Stevie Howard:
OUCH! Did you hear that shot?!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
We heard it and Troy felt it.
Troy arches his back and Chapman kicks him again before dropping to one knee behind him and grabbing him in another chin lock. He wrenches back with the hold as he pushes his knee into Gafgen's spine. Troy yelps in pain as he moves around trying to break. As he continues to struggle he yells to the referee that there is something in his eye. The ref comes over and forces the break. He holds Mark back as Troy slowly gets to his feet as he begins rubbing his eye. The fans boo as Troy tells them to shut up.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Something in his eye? You've got to be kidding me.
:Stevie Howard:
Mark should rip his eye out!
As Mark advances to Troy, he tosses The Renegade into the corner and begins unleashing left and right into his sternum. The ref moves in and tells Troy to break it up...which he does cleanly. Troy steps back, holding his hands in the air to show he's broken the hold as Mark holds his chest and then bolts forward suddenly, grounding Troy with a clothesline to a roar from the crowd. He stays down, too, trying to regain some energy.
:Stevie Howard:
That clothesline came out of nowhere! Go, Mark!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
It may have come from out of nowhere, Stevie, but he has nothing in the tank to follow up with right now.
Mark moves over to Troy and makes a cover. The referee counts.
ONE!
TWO!
KICKOUT!
Mark gets back up to his feet and waits for Troy who isn't that far behind him. As he gets up, Mark kicks him in the gut and sets up for a suplex. Troy blocks it and and counters with a suplex of his own. As Mark hits the canvas he holds his back while Troy hits a knee drop to Mark's forehead. He then stands and taunts to the crowd, who answer him back with vicious jeers.
:Stevie Howard:
Asshole...get up Mark!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Well, Gafgen isn't letting up on his arrogance but it might come back to bite him where the sun don't shine.
:Stevie Howard:
You mean his ASSHOLE!
Mark sits up, holding his forehead for a second and then looking at the blood that has transferred onto his palm from the cut on his head that has been reopened. He struggles up to his feet, wiping away the blood with his hand and then approaching Troy from behind. He grabs him, spinning him around and planting a knee to his gut. He looks for a DDT but Gafgen spins out of it, and drive Mark head-first into the canvas himself.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Chapman has been busted open by that vicious knee drop from Troy. That definitely doesn't work in favor of The Renegade. He already lost a lot of blood in the barbed wire match earlier.
Troy thinks for a minutes as Chapman is getting on his hands and knees, trying to get back to his feet. As this is going on, Troy knows what he is going to do as he backs up to the corner, eyes right on Mark's head. As he prepares to charge the fans are yelling out to Mark.
:Stevie Howard:
No. Move Mark!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
It seems he's going for...oh no, a punt to the skull! This could be devastating.
As Mark is still crawling around, Troy takes the chance and charges but as he kicks, Mark moves back and is able to roll Troy up!
ONE!
TWO!
THR-NO!
Both superstars get to their knees, Troy staring a hole through Mark with evil eyes.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Wow! Mark was so close to capturing the GEW World Title.
Troy is to his feet first but Mark isn't far behind and he swings a punch at the champion who ducks it and counters with a kick to Mark's stomach. The Renegade hunches over and Troy brings up a harsh knee to his face, sending him right back down. He drops an elbow to his chest and then covers.
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
No! Mark lifts a shoulder up just in time. Gafgen slaps the mat in frustration and then gets back to his feet, yelling for Mark to get up. He takes his time, but then starts to rise, making it up to one knee. Troy hits the ropes and then runs back at Mark, looking to connect with a kick to the head but Chapman rolls off to the side to avoid contact. Troy then stops as he sees Chapman is still a little groggy. Troy goes over and gets behind Mark and locks him in a full nelson! Mark quickly struggles but is beginning to fade as Troy clenches the hold tighter. He starts to fall to one knee but there is still fight in The Renegade. Mark tries to back Troy up into the corner but Troy is able to use his strength to his advantage. He gets Mark away from the ropes and tightens the hold again. As Mark's arms start to fall lifelessly, the crowd is shooting cheers to the nearly incapacitated superstar.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Vintage Troy Gafgen. He called the the darkness hold and it once made Kameron Chase pass out.
:Stevie Howard:
But this is MARK FUCKING CHAPMAN! Fight back Mark!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
I don't know Stevie. Even the toughest guys succumb to this move. It can be devastating. The referee is going to check on him.
As the referee moves over to Mark, Troy tells him he's done. He holds Mark's hand and lifts it up. He let's it go and it falls. He lifts the arm again, repeating the process and once more, it falls limp as the referee releases it. He lifts the hand a third time... drops it... and Mark holds it up! Troy has a stunned look on his face as Mark is fighting back. Mark is able to forcefully force Troy into the corner, breaking the hold. He then moves forward and lunges at Troy in the corner with a splash. He steps aside as Troy stumbles out of the corner and then grabs his head, planting him to the mat with a one-handed bulldog. He rolls him over and covers.
ONE!
TWO!
THR-
Kickout by Troy at the last millisecond! Chapman looks frustrated as he leans back on his knees, wiping the blood from out of his eyes. He gets to his feet, looking around the ring as if trying to figure out his next move.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Chapman is looking a little lost here, not to mention, exhausted. He's been through hell once already tonight. I'm not sure how much he has left.
:Stevie Howard:
Mark's like Superman, Crell. Never count him out!
Mark waits for Troy to get up and then slams a forearm into his jaw before backing him up against the ropes. He shoots him across the ring and hits a dropkick as he comes back, but fails to get the elevation he was looking for and only catches him in the chest. This causes Troy to stumble back only slightly. As Mark is back to his feet, he moves to Troy and the two begin trading lefts and rights. Mark, being the MMA expert catches Troy with a hard shot right to the jaw. Troy stumbles back to the corner but as Mark goes to advance, Troy hits him with a hard spear! He hooks both legs.
ONE!
TWO!
NO! Troy lifts Mark's head off the mat.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Troy could have put Mark away but again in this match, his arrogance is taking over.
:Stevie Howard:
Troy's just wasting time. Mark is going to become champion, Crell. It is meant to be.
Back in the ring, Troy lifts Mark up and tosses him over the top rope-but Mark holds on. Troy sees this and he hits a forearm shot that sends Mark to the floor below. Troy is quickly out as well as he begins stomping on Mark's torso. He stops for a second, to once again taunt the fans, and Chapman takes the chance to try to crawl away and catch a breather. Gafgen quickly notices and stomps down hard on his back, flattening him again.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
I think Chapman is in trouble here. Troy has him grounded and he's rapidly running out of gas.
The World champion reaches down to pull Mark to his feet but Chapman counters with a low-blow that the referee doesn't see, as he's busy climbing out of the ring to join them on the outside. The crowd roar in approval as Troy sinks to his knees. Mark then lifts Troy back up and slams his head into the announce table. Troy falls back to the floor as the referee tells Mark to take it to the inside. He sighs and hauls Troy up and tosses him into the ring. Mark the climbs onto the apron and looks out to the crowd. He smirks before climbing the turnbuckle. Troy is starting to stir and he gets to his knees. Mark motions for him to get up. He does and turns right into a diving side kick from Mark! He drapes an arm on Troy.
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-NO!
:Stevie Howard:
BULLSHIT! Mark had it!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Gafgen was just able to kick out of that...but for how much longer can he hold Mark off?
Mark grits his teeth and punches the mat in frustration, clearly running out of ideas. He wipes the blood out of his eyes again before pulling himself up to his feet. He screams for Troy to get up impatiently as the crowd stomp and clap. Troy crawls to the ropes, reaching up and grabbing the top one to aid him in getting up to his feet. As soon as he's up Mark rushes him but Troy bolts forward and meets him with a big boot to the face, knocking him down to the mat. The London fans groan in unison as Gafgen takes a few moments to catch his breath. He holds up his hands as if he's signaling for something. Once he motions to his stomach the answer is clear...The Sickness. Troy goes over to Mark and lifts him up. He then locks his head and tries to go for a suplex but Mark hold him off. Mark then delivers some hard punches to the gut of Gafgen, which makes him back up and Mark is able to push Troy back into the ropes. As Troy rebounds, Mark uses his momentum to hoist Troy on his shoulders for his trademark move Radiant Eclipse.
:Stevie Howard:
Radiant Eclipse! This one is over!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
He hasn't even hit the damn move yet...calm down.
The fans roar as Mark tries to bring Troy over but Troy forces his way behind Mark with elbows to the side of the head. As he falls back he shoves Mark forward and he goes crashing into the referee!
:Stevie Howard:
The ref is out!
Mark turns around and Troy immediately hooks his head beneath his arm and lifts him into the air. Mark tries to struggle down but it's no use as Troy takes him down with The Sickness! He covers... but there's no referee to count it!
:Stevie Howard:
Hahahaha! Sucks to be Troy!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
But you wouldn't be saying that if the shoe was on the other foot and it was Mark Chapman making the cover right now.
:Stevie Howard:
Obviously.
Troy holds the cover for a count that would be so much longer than three, but no count comes. He looks around, noticing the referee out cold and grunting in annoyance. He moves off of Mark and gets up, moving to the referee and trying to rouse him. It doesn't work and when he turns around, Mark is back on his feet. Troy rushes toward him and Mark turns, taking him down with a snapmare and then hitting a dropkick to his head as he's sitting to send him down properly. He backs up...
:Stevie Howard:
Trashed and Scattered! Troy's about be Trashed and Scattered! The referee had better wake up! Mark's got this one now!
Mark takes a breath as he looks at Troy who's trying to get up but can't as he can barely get to all fours. As he pushes his upper body with his wobbly arms, Mark makes a mad dash towards the ropes but from within the crowd Bucky Skyler appears. He slides into the ring and takes a running charge at Troy. As Mark comes running forward, he takes notice of Bucky who's taking a running leap off of Troy's back. He catches Mark with a leg lariat that drives him into the mat hard. He holds the small of his back as Bucky walks around the ring as the fans are booing him throughout the arena. He stops and looks at Mark and then walks back over to him and pulls him up and onto his shoulders. He crosses both of Mark's legs and holds onto his head as he starts to spin him and then drives him down into the mat, back of the head and neck first.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Cradleshocker! Cradleshocker by Bucky Skyler!
:Stevie Howard:
No! This isn't right! What's he doing here?!
Bucky stands up again and looks at Troy. He walks over to him and grabs his arm, dragging him over to Mark and looking at the fans before just dropping Troy's arm onto Mark's chest and sliding out of the ring. He starts to walk back up the ramp as the referee comes around, noticing the cover by Troy. He counts...albeit slowly.
ONE!
...
TWO!
...
THREE!
:Carly Mitchell:
Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this match and STILL Global Extreme Wrestling World Champion... TROOOOOOOOY GAAAAAFGEEEEEEEN!
:Stevie Howard:
GODDAMNIT!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Chapman tried, and by God, he put up one hell of a fight, especially after what he went through earlier tonight but interference from Bucky Skyler cost him the World Championship.
:Stevie Howard:
He got screwed!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
And look at Bucky. He looks so proud of himself.
:Stevie Howard:
Asshole.
The scene cuts to a backstage corridor, where we see walking - sipping from his ubiquitous cup of coffee - none other than Dexter Sinister. The London fans pop for their homeboy. Suddenly a beefy, tattooed arm thrusts out in front of him, slamming into the wall and barring his passage. He looks up.
:Dexter Sinister:
Hello, Tony.
The fans boo as glaring down at Sinister is the King of Crunch, Tony Harrison. Tracking back a little, we can also see that shadowing him - almost literally - is the dark-clad figure of La Sombra Oscura. Tony flexes his muscles, sneering down at Dex.
:Tony Harrison:
Why weren't we in the tag title match?
It's not a question, it's a demand.
:Dexter Sinister:
I'm sorry?
And that's not an apology. It's pregnant with a lack of understanding.
:Tony Harrison:
The Tag Team Championship match earlier tonight. Why weren't La Sombra and I included in it?
Dexter pauses.
:Dexter Sinister:
Should you have been?
:Tony Harrison:
Of course we should!
:Dexter Sinister:
Why?
:Tony Harrison:
Why!? Because...
Tony stammers for a second, caught off guard.
:Tony Harrison:
Look, we're a dominant team, that's why!
:Dexter Sinister:
Dominant, Tony? You've never held a title in over two and a half years with GEW and as for him-
-he gestures to La Sombra Oscura, who's watching this with his arms folded, no sign of emotion beneath his mask-
:Dexter Sinister:
He's only had one match. Which he lost. Sorry to say it mate, but I ain't quite following your logic here.
:Tony Harrison:
Well, what have Flare and Loki done to deserve that shot? They've only been here five minutes!
:Dexter Sinister:
Well, they beat you, for one thing.
Tony ignores that particular comment.
:Tony Harrison:
And anyway, what about Thor and Carnage? They've never even teamed before!
:Dexter Sinister:
They're part of the same stable.
:Tony Harrison:
Stables. That's what it's all about, isn't it? You just want to play off the tension going on between Youthful Image and The Empire so that you can-
He turns and glances at the camera with a sudden jolt of nervousness, then shuts up. Dexter raises an eyebrow.
:Dexter Sinister:
So who can what?
:Tony Harrison:
Nothing. So nobody can nothing. Look, the point is, I've been a loyal company man during my time here. It's about time I got a reward. And I think La Sombra and I should get a shot at the Tag Team Championships.
:Dexter Sinister:
You do, do you? I'm sure Mr. Tanke is itching for another shot at The Inmates, as is Mr. Thor. Not to mention that Youthful Image have a rematch clause for when they return. Seeing as how they were never actually beaten for the titles.
:Tony Harrison:
Tanke? Thor? They had their shots tonight, and they lost. Wah wah.
:Dexter Sinister:
Well, I'm sure I don't know. Maybe you can get a shot if you impress the right people. I'm not one of them, though, Tony. I'm not the General Manager any more, remember? These days I'm just GEW's humble Senior Lawyer. You want something, go and ask Chelsea Reed or Oliver Queen.
His piece said, Dexter ducks under Tony's arm and walks off. Tony and La Sombra look at each other. The King of Crunch bears a portentous snarl, while his tenebrous compatriot just shrugs and flexes his biceps. Tony slams a fist into the wall, and the two stalk away down the corridors of the 02 Arena.
A hush overtakes the arena. The lights in the arena fade out as an ominous sounding wind is heard over the speakers. After about 20 seconds the opening riff of Lady Gaga's "Poker Face" begins to play, shaking the arena with the thump of its bassline as white pyros explode across the stage and green spotlights dart sporadically around the arena.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Scott Simmonds, and that can only mean that it's main event time! Simmonds defeated Maria Giordano and Tony Harrison to make this match.
The green lights are now joined by white counterparts, scanning the crowd and passing over the entrance ramp. Thick white smoke pours from behind the curtain as the crowd rises with anticipation.
I wanna hold em' like they do in Texas Plays
Fold em' let em' hit me raise it baby stay with me; I love it
Luck and intuition play the cards with Spades to start
And after he's been hooked I'll play the one that's on his heart
As the Oh-oh's of the pre-chorus start Scott Simmonds saunters throught the curtain with a cocky grin spread across his face, followed by a large gush of smoke. He stands atop the ramp clad in a Hardcore MVP tshirt, scanning the crowd who are offering him a mixed reaction. Scott raises both of his hands as green pyros explode behind him three times. Each blast forming the shape of a letter. M-V-P.
Can't read my,Can't read my
No he can't read my poker face
She's got to love nobody
Can't read my, Can't read my
No he can't read my poker face
She's got to love nobody
With his trademark cocky smirk Scott swaggers his way down to the ring, not looking at all affected by the task ahead of him. He stops to take photos and busts out various muscle poses for the crowd on his way towards the ring. Reaching the end of the ramp Scott jumps up onto the apron, landing on one knee. He reaches up and pulls himself to his feet with the aid of the ropes before climbing into the ring.
I wanna roll with him a hard pair we will be
A little gambling is fun when you're with me; I love it
Russian Roulette is not the same without a gun
And baby when it's love if it's not rough it isn't fun
As the second verse comes to a close Scott makes his way to the nearest turnbuckle and pulls yet another 5 second pose for the crowd, who are still unsure how to treat the Hardcore MVP. After a moment Scott hops down from the turnbuckle, turning to face the centre of the ring, showing off a few of his dance moves before removing his t-shirt and tossing it to he crowd. "Poker Face" fades out, and Smash Mouth's "Why Can't We Be Friends" hits the PA system and Dwight Mare wanders out from the backstage with a big smile on his face, and waves a few times to the crowd. He points to any signs he finds humorous and chuckles or claps, as he makes his way down to the ring. He rolls under the bottom rope and doing some quick stretches in the ring, still with a big perfect smile on his face.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Dwight Mare, our second finalist, making his second Commonwealth Cup final. He defeated The Engineer and Magnum to make this match, which is certainly impressive.
The arena lights dim as the name "Bucky Skyler" appears on the tron, and the sounds of eerie guitar riffs begin to play as "Broken Dreams" by Shaman's Harvest starts to play.
What's that metronome I hear, perhaps the end is drawing near
You never hear the shot that takes you down
Now your dreams a memory, and seems more true from far away
Just like smoke that fades and makes no sound.
Out of time, so say goodbye
What is yours, now it's mine
And I dream broken dreams, I make them come true
I make them for you.
Bucky steps out with the Omega title around his waist as he looks out at the fans who now boo him. He smirks as he slowly makes his way down the ramp as they continually boo him, he walks around the ring and steps up onto the ring steps and stands before the ring post as he looks around at the fans in the arena.
Bad Dreams come true, I make them for you.
He walks his way up onto the ring apron and makes his way over to the other ring post, which he walks up. At the top takes off the Omega title and hangs it from his hand as he takes in the wave of camera flashes and chorus of boos from the fans.
Out of time, so say goodbye
What is yours, now it's mine
And I dream broken dreams, I make them come true
I make them for you.
Bucky enters the ring and he hands the title over to the ref, then walks over to the ring ropes and leans onto the ropes and exchanges words with the fans before turning toward his corner and standing there stretching certain muscles while he awaits the start of the match.
:Carly Mitchell:
The following match is our main event of the evening and it is the final of the Commonwealth Cup 2010! In this Doomsday Ladder Match, the trophy hanging above the ring may only be recovered by a competitor after he has pinned, or forced to submit, both of his opponents!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
GEW's second ever Doomsday Ladder Match. The first of course was held almost two years ago, when James Magnum - the creator of the match - defeated Reese Black and X-ecutioner to retain the World Championship.
:Stevie Howard:
Course that means none of these guys in it here have been in the match before, so it's all new to them! No prior experience with the stip!
The three competitors square off... or triangle off, anyway... glancing at each other and at the ladder set up at ringside.
:Carly Mitchell:
Introducing first... hailing from Wichita, Kansas... he weighed in today atone hundred and fifty-seven pounds... DWIIIIGHT... MAAARRRE!
The crowd scream happily as Dwight flashes them his brilliant white pearls.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Mare the clear fan favourite in this match. The longest reigning International Champion in history has been loved by the GEW faithful since his debut over a year ago.
:Carly Mitchell:
And his first opponent... he hails from Stone Mountain, Georgia... he weighed in today at two hundred and thirty pounds... he is the Hardcore MVP... SCOTT! SIMMOOONNNDSSSAH!
Scott gets a mixed reaction. He looks around with a quizzical expression.
:Stevie Howard:
The fans haven't been sure about Scott since his return - what's his angle? Does he have a hidden agenda? For that matter, I don't trust him either!
:Carly Mitchell:
And finally... their opponent... hailing from West Palm Beach, California, he weighed in this morning at two hundred and forty-three pounds... he is the reigning GEW Omega Champion... Perfection Personified... BUCKYYYY... SKYYYYYLEEERRRRR!
Bucky throws up his arms with a cocky smirk. The fans boo him remorselessly.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Skyler apparently not caring too much about what the fans think of him. Of course, of late, Bucky Skyler's mind has been largely on Maria Giordano, while Dwight Mare's has been on The Engineer. Scott Simmonds, by contrast, has nothing but this match to focus on. Could that give him an edge?
:Stevie Howard:
Nothing else to focus on? He has to make a good impression in his return! He's done that so far, but if he crashes here, it'll all be for nothing.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Well, I guess it comes down to how much Simmonds is letting that affect him.
Dwight extends a hand to Bucky.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Mare and Skyler, former stablemates, facing off for the second time in the last few weeks - but this time there's a lot more than just pride on the line!
:Stevie Howard:
Is Bucky gonna shake?
Reluctantly, Bucky tags Dwight's hand. Dwight nods and turns to Scott, extending a handshake to him too. Scott glances down at it, then also tags it. Dwight smiles and takes a step back, looking from Bucky to Scott and back again.
:Stevie Howard:
What's Dwight doing?
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
I think he's waiting for Bucky Skyler and Scott Simmonds to shake hands.
:Stevie Howard:
Oh, really? I hope he's got a chair and a book with him then.
Dwight's pearly white smile flashes as his head turns from one opponent to the other. Scott and Bucky glance at each other, eyebrows raised, and cross over to each other... and they start brawling instantly. Dwight frowns.
:Stevie Howard:
Hah! That's not what he wanted!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Well, there's a match to be won! One of these three men will walk out of here tonight as the Commonwealth Cup Winner 2010, and Skyler and Simmonds can't wait to get it on!
Commonwealth Cup Final
Doomsday Ladder Match
Bucky Skyler vs Dwight Mare vs Scott Simmonds
Dwight stands back, staring at Scott and Bucky as they trade punches. He circles round them, clearly unsure of where to get involved.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Mare's letting Skyler and Simmonds slug it out to start with.
:Stevie Howard:
I think it's more outta dopiness than smarts though.
Scott catches Bucky with an elbow to the jaw, winding the Omega Champion, and takes the chance to toss him over the top rope. But as Scott turns back, Dwight catches him with a blow to the stomach. He pulls Scott closer to the centre of the ring, and sends him overhead with a suplex.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Both of these men no stranger to the pay-per-view main event - Simmonds faced Magnum a while back for the World Heavyweight Championship-
:Stevie Howard:
-and what a screwjob that was-
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
- while Dwight Mare, of course, was in last year's Commonwealth Cup final, against Gabriella, Mark Chapman and Deacon Vail. Mare knows the pressure of this match first hand.
:Stevie Howard:
He also knows how to lose in it.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Well, perhaps he can channel his experience into a win here tonight.
Dwight twists Scott into an armbar, but Scott ducks under it and lifts Dwight off the mat using the young man's own arm. He rolls forwards, slamming Dwight to the mat, while still keeping the arm hooked, and then stands up yanking Dwight into a grounded hammerlock. However, Dwight turns to free his elbow before Scott can begin applying pressure and uses Scott's extended arms to pull the Hardcore MVP down into a cradle.
ONE!
TWO!
Kickout from the larger, stronger Scott, but Dwight is behind him in a flash, and locks in a full nelson.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Great mat wrestling from Mare and Simmonds. All three of these men are excellent pure wrestlers.
:Stevie Howard:
But this match ain't about pure wrestling!
Dwight tries to lift Scott, but Scott sandbags before trying to work his way out of the hold, twisting to the side. Dwight twists the other way, trying to prevent him from escaping. The two men move back and forth, each vying for the superior position. But all of a sudden, they're both knocked off their feet and Bucky slides a ladder into the ring, intentionally ramming both Dwight and Scott in the ankles!
:Stevie Howard:
Nice!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Smart and efficient move by Skyler.
Bucky hops up onto the apron and grabs the top tope, then slingshots over into a diving leg drop which crushes Scott's chest. He stands and picks up the ladder while Dwight sits up, rubbing his ankles.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
That swipe with the ladder caught both Mare and Simmonds totally by surprise. They were absolutely unguarded against the metal meeting their ankle bones.
Bucky sets the ladder in the corner, leaning against the ropes, then crosses and lifts up Dwight. He hoists the young man into a bearhug then charges forward, slamming Dwight's spine into the steel rungs. Dwight slides down the ladder into a sitting position, coughing, while Bucky crosses over to Scott. He grabs Scott's arm and hauls him out in an Irish whip, which he transitions into a hiptoss, slamming Scott into Dwight upside down! Their heads meet and Dwight's back is sent into the steel once again.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Skyler using that ladder very well here. The human body can't stand up to solid steel for very long.
Bucky drags both of his opponents to the middle of the ring and wraps Scott's right arm up around Dwight's left, grapevining them together. He then jumps, dropping a knee into the entwined limbs.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Even more clever. If Skyler can damage his opponent's arms, they can't climb the ladder to retrieve that contract!
Bucky crosses to the corner and grabs the ladder, which he tosses on top of his opponents. He then returns to the middle of the ring and rolls his opponents either side of it. He opens the ladder on the ground and lays Dwight's right arm and Scott's left both over the inside of the rungs, then lifts the other side before slamming it down. Scott and Dwight both roll aside clutching their arms in pain. Bucky grabs Scott by the hair and drags him over to the corner, and begins stretching his arm against the turnbuckle. Scott thrashes but Bucky just keeps the pressure applied.
:Stevie Howard:
Man, Bucky's just being ruthless. But then, he knows both of these men better than they know each other. He fought Scott for the Extreme Chaos title, and used to be in Matinee Unlimited with Dwight, but Dwight and Scott haven't crossed paths so much.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Indeed they have not, Stevie, and I gotta wonder if that'll give Skyler the edge in this match.
:Stevie Howard:
It definitely looks like it right now.
The Omega Champion leaves Scott to his plight hanging over the ropes, and goes back to Dwight. He grabs Dwight's arm and places it between his legs, then drops to his knees.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Ouch, just imagine the pressure that would put on Mare's arm joints.
Bucky pushes Dwight onto his back but Dwight, sensing that a pin attempt is coming, rolls out of the ring and flops to the mats. Bucky grimaces and turns for Scott - who rolls Bucky up!
ONE!
TWO!
Scott's weakened arms can't keep Bucky down, and Perfection Personified easily kicks out. The two men jump up and Bucky goes for a punch, but Scott ducks it unsteadily before swinging a knee up into Bucky's gut. Scott takes advantage with a quick DDT, leaving both men down on the mat!
:Stevie Howard:
Bucky's head just bounced off the canvas like a ball.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
But Simmonds has taken a ton of punishment thus far, and he needs a breather by the looks of it. I think that - hey, wait!
Dwight stands up in the corner, flashes a big grin from the top turnbuckle to the fans, and then leaps off in a diving leg drop!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Dwight Time! Dwight Time!
His thigh hits Bucky's upper body, and Dwight stays in place for the cover.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
:Carly Mitchell:
Ladies and gentlemen, Dwight Mare has pinned Bucky Skyler!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Dwight Mare with the first fall of the match, and the clear advantage! He needs only pin Scott Simmonds now, but Simmonds and Skyler have to make up two pinfalls apiece!
Speaking of Scott, the Hardcore MVP staggers to his feet. Dwight quickly wraps him into a front facelock and sends him over with a bridging suplex.
ONE!
TWO!
THR-
Scott manages to collapse the bridge, thus lifting his shoulders from the mat.
:Stevie Howard:
Dwight should have gone for the ladder there. He's gonna have to get mean if he wants to hang with two former Extreme Chaos Champions in this kinda match.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Well, it's true that Mare isn't as experienced in a hardcore environment as Simmonds or Skyler, but it's not his first time in a big stipulation match. He was of course in that Hi-Rise Hell match last year, and you may remember that he won that brutal Tokyo Street Fight against Jason Williams at the following pay-per-view event.
:Stevie Howard:
Yeah, and those match were both like a year ago. It's only a few months ago that Scott and Bucky were warring over the Extreme Chaos Championship!
Scott and Dwight are both up and start trading chops, until their arms give out, courtesy of BUcky's earlier actions. Dwight pauses to shake his elbows out - and Scott capitalises with a headscissors throw!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Simmonds tossing Mare head over heels, in a move that didn't require the use of his arms. Nice job.
As Dwight pulls himself on the ropes, Scott runs over and clotheslines him out. He then turns to the ladder, dragging it into the centre of the ring. He grabs ahold of Bucky and positions him over the ladder, then hooks the arms.
:Stevie Howard:
Lights Out, right on that ladder!
But it's not to be, as Bucky lifts up Scott in a back body drop! Scott's sent flying up in the air, and upon landing his spine connects with the ladder's rungs!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Ouch! That's the kind of risk you take in a ladder match!
Bucky lifts the ladder up, holding Scott in place as he does, and places it back in the corner as he did before. Scott dangles out from the rungs by his head, near the top of the ladder, but not for long as Bucky gets up onto the bottom rungs and lifts himself under Scott.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Looks like Skyler may be setting up for the Cradleshocker!
Bucky steps up, lifting Scott higher. But it's slow going, and Scott manages to slam a palm into Bucky's head halfway up the ladder. The two begin trading blows. Scott wraps a forearm around the top rung and kicks Bucky, sending the Omega Champion down to the mat! Bucky folds in half as he lands on the canvas, before flopping out as if dead.
:Stevie Howard:
Well that backfired!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
And it looks from Simmonds' expression like he has something in mind!
Scott turns back to the ladder and grips it with both hands, then jumps up. His feet land on the very top - but only for a moment, as he springs back into a moonsault!
:Stevie Howard:
Oh my god, look at that elevation! He must have gone thirty feet in the air!
The Simmondsault connects, accompanied by a "Holy shit!" chant from the crowd, and Scott stays in place for the pinfall.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
:Carly Mitchell:
Ladies and gentlemen, Scott Simmonds has pinned Bucky Skyler!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Like Dwight Mare, Simmonds is now down to one fall left before he can go for the title!
:Stevie Howard:
And this match ain't going Bucky's way! Both his opponents have pinned him and he's yet to pin anyone!
Scott sits up, holding his midriff in agony. Dwight slides into the ring behind him and heads over - but Scott catches sight of a shadow sneaking up behind him just in time! He turns, surprising Dwight, and slams a knee into the youngster's stomach! Dwight doubles over and Scott wastes zero time in hooking his arms. He lifts and jumps, and slams Dwight's head down into the canvas!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Lights Out, and this time it connects!
Scott rolls Dwight over and hooks a leg.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
:Carly Mitchell:
Ladies and gentlemen, Scott Simmonds has pinned Dwight Mare! Scott Simmonds is now eligible to attempt to retrieve the Commonwealth Cup trophy!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Simmonds is the first to pin both his opponents! And now he can attempt to climb the ladder and take posession of the trophy hanging above the ring!
Realising this, Scott pulls the ladder from the corner and sets it up. He starts to climb, but Bucky crawls over and kicks it. It swings sideways, teetering on two feet... before slowly crashing all the way over.
:Stevie Howard:
TIMBEERRRR!
The ladder bounces off the top rope, but Scott is not so lucky. He falls all the way to ringside, landing in a painful heap. Bucky pulls himself up and closes the ladder, then lifts it up so it's balanced on the top rope - then slams it down like a pool cue into Scott's prone form! The ladder clatters away to ringside.
:Stevie Howard:
Heh, Bucky poking Scott like a kid poking a dead hobo with a stick.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
I bet you'll make a great parent, Stevie.
:Stevie Howard:
Why thank you, Crell.
Bucky glances down at Scott with a smile - then suddenly is sent to join him at ringside, as Dwight lands a beautiful dropkick right in the back of his head, which sends him tumbling over the top rope!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
In a regular ladder match, Mare would be in a pretty good position right now - but in this Doomsday Ladder Match, he has to pin Scott Simmonds or make him submit before he can attempt to retrieve the trophy!
Scott and Bucky both get up, each using the other as a crutch. But just as soon as they're upright, they fall right back down again courtesy of Dwight, and a vaulting splash over the top rope! Dwight starts laying open palms to Bucky.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Mare showing some more aggression and daring now.
:Stevie Howard:
I knew he'd get the hang of it eventually.
Dwight is blindsided by a scissor kick from Scott, who catches Bucky as Dwight falls aside. He swings Perfection Personified into the steel guardrail, then flips Dwight in right after him. He charges in - but Dwight lifts a boot, his toe catching Scott in the head. Scott spins away, dropping to one knee.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
I have to say, Mare is showing tremendous resilience here - although that said, so are both of his opponents!
Dwight runs out and catches Scott with a knee lift, then lifts him up onto the apron. He hops up, and lifts Scott up over the top turnbuckle. He climbs up after him.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Dwight Mare needs to pin Scott Simmonds, and it looks like that's what he's looking for here.
The crowd cheer as Dwight wraps Scott up - then drives him all the way down to the mat with an avalanche suplex! He quickly makes the cover.
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
Kickout! Dwight can't believe it. He stands and lifts Scott up, but Scott pushes away. He stumbles back out of Dwight's reach. Dwight follows, but Scott greets him with a closed fist to the gut. Dwight sags back, and Scott takes the moment to catch his breath before pushing on to boot Dwight. He gets a hold set in - and drops Dwight with the Scottomiser!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Another big move from Simmonds to Mare. And a lot of Simmonds' moves target the head. How addled must Mare be feeling right now?
:Stevie Howard:
He's pretty addled most of the time anyway.
Scott looks around and notices the beaten-up ladder at ringside. He sighs and slides out, and flips up the apron. He hauls out a fresh ladder and slides it into the ring, then follows after.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Simmonds going for a new ladder, but it's costing him valuable seconds, seconds his opponents can use to recover.
Scott sets the ladder up and begins to climb. However, as he's nearing the top, Dwight stands. But before he can do anything, he's sent flipping over by a lariat from Bucky! Bucky charges straight on and grabs Scott, hauling him down from the ladder and across his shoulders. Scott tries to stop it, but Bucky is too prepared. He swings Scott out into the Cradleshocker and this time, he nails it!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
:Carly Mitchell:
Ladies and gentlemen, Bucky Skyler has pinned Scott Simmonds!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Second time's the charm for Bucky Skyler! This time he lands the Cradleshocker, and pins Scott Simmonds! Now he just needs to pin Dwight Mare!
On cue, Bucky crosses over to Dwight - but Dwight rolls him up with an inside cradle.
ONE!
TWO!
Kickout from Bucky.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Skyler breaks it.
:Stevie Howard:
Not that it would have made any difference anyway. Dwight's already pinned Bucky.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
he has, but in a match like this, I'm sure it's easy to forget things in the heat of the moment and revert to your training. And anway, I suppose it kept Skyler from pinning Mare.
Both men stand. Bucky goes for a hookup, but Dwight ducks behind him and catches the Omega Champion in a German Suplex. Bucky bounces painfully, and Dwight falls forwards to pin Scott, who's still down from the Cradleshocker.
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
Scott throws a shoulder up, but it's clearly some effort. Dwight stands, hands on hips. He looks around, and then his eye catches the battered ladder at ringside. He slides out and lifts it up, and leans one end against the barrier before sliding the other end across the apron.
:Stevie Howard:
Aw yeah! Dwight's finally taking it old school!
Dwight takes a step back to look at the elevated ladder, then turns - and Bucky drops down with a double axe handle. He grabs Dwight's head and slams it into the side of the ladder, then rolls him onto it. He starts to set up for the Package Breaker.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Skyler looking for the Package Breaker! Mare's head about to be driven into that steel!
Dwight grabs the ropes, holding on tight and preventing Bucky from performing the move. Dwight kicks Bucky in the head, but Bucky responds by yanking Dwight off the ropes with a hard tug.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Bucky Skyler needs to pin Dwight Mare, but Mare wants to focus on Simmonds.
:Stevie Howard:
Speaking of Scott...
Scott is climbing the ladder in the ring. He's still dazed and it's slow going, but he pushes on up the ladder. Bucky catches sight of this just in time. He tosses Dwight to the ringside mats and jumps through the ropes. He runs over and knocks Scott off. He straightens up, catching a break from the action after this intense, nonstop match.
:Stevie Howard:
What a wuss. Poor Bucky needs a wittle bweak.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Stevie, this match has been long and tough. You'd need a break too.
:Stevie Howard:
Eh, if you say so.
Bucky leans over and breathes out, then stands up straight. He soon regrets it though, as Dwight flies down and swings around Bucky, dropping him with a tornado DDT! He crosses to the rising Scott and kicks him over again, then makes the pin.
ONE!
TWO!
Scott kicks out. Dwight hauls him up and whips him into the ladder, then stomps Bucky. He lifts Scott up and sits him on the ladder, then climbs up and hooks him into a fisherman's hold.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Fisherman's suplex from halfway up the ladder...
Dwight lifts - and Bucky strikes, knocking both men from the rungs! They both fall to ringside, and while Scott flops to his back, Dwight manages to land on his feet. But Bucky slips his arms under Dwight's from behind and leans forward, pulling his former teammate into a backslide pin!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
:Carly Mitchell:
Ladies and gentlemen, Bucky Skyler has pinned Dwight Mare! Bucky Skyler is now eligible to attempt to retrieve the Commonwealth Cup Trophy!
Bucky stands - and is caught with a side thrust kick from Scott. He stumbles back - into a neckbreaker from Dwight! Scott moves in too, looking to strike either opponent, but Dwight ducks down and grabs him around the waist. He lifts, and drops Scott on top of Bucky with a northern lights suplex! He shoves Scott off Bucky, and pins the hardcore MVP.
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
No! Scott kicks out! Dwight sinks to his knees, arms raised.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Simmonds kicks out yet again! What's it gonna take!? Everyone has now pinned everyone else with the exception that Dwight Mare, the first person to make a pinfall in this match, still needs to pin Scott Simmonds... who's kicking out of everything Mare throws at him!
Dwight grabs Scott by the legs and drags him towards the ladder, but Bucky manages to get a boot free and catch Dwight with a toe kick. He hops up and slams an elbow into Dwight's head, then drops momentarily. He lifts up, bringing Dwight in a choke. He lifts him, then drops him across his back.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
The Spyder Effect! Spyder Effect to Dwight Mare!
Bucky picks Scott up, then hooks him up and jumps back in a moonsault, slamming Scott down with Back to the Future! Scott rolls over in agony, and Bucky tosses him over the top rope. Scott's back spasms as he lands on the ladder Dwight set up at ringside earlier. Bucky ignores his opponent's plight and starts to climb the other ladder, staring up at his prize. But as he's nearing the top, Dwight starts scampering up the other side!
:Stevie Howard:
Dwight's still in this!
Dwight reaches the top and the two men begin trading punches. After a moment Bucky headbutts Dwight, then starts prising his grip hand from the ladder - but Dwight soon regroups. He slams an elbow down onto Bucky's palm. Bucky screams, and Dwight pushes him from the ladder! He flies down - and gets hung up on the top rope! His eyes start filling up as his lips part into an agonised grimace.
:Stevie Howard:
OOCHA!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
I think most of the men in the arena have just crossed their legs - I know I have!
Dwight stands up, and glances at the trophy above him.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
If this was a normal ladder match Dwight would have won it right now, but he still needs to pin Simmonds.
Dwight turns, scanning for Scott - and sees him sprawled out on the beaten ladder bridging the ringside area. Dwight takes a deep breath and closes his eyes... exhales slowly... then jumps!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
OH MY GOD! Dwight Time from the top of the ladder in the ring, all the way down to Simmonds at ringside!
:Stevie Howard:
If this connects, Scott's out of the match for good!
Cameras flash and the fans chant Dwight's name - as the leg drop connects! Scott jerks around so hard he's flung off the ladder, which crumples under the impact. Dwight drops to ringside holding his tailbone, nearly crying at the pain, but grits his teeth. He rolls Scott into the ring and covers him.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
:Carly Mitchell:
Ladies and gentlemen, Dwight Mare has pinned Scott Simmonds! Dwight Mare is now eligible to attempt to retrieve the Commonwealth Cup Trophy, meaning all three men are now eligible!
The crowd erupts in cheers as Dwight rolls off Scott, taking in heaving gulps of air.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
He's done it! He's finally done it! Dwight Mare pins Scott Simmonds following an incredible leg drop, and now it's the first man to take the trophy!
Dwight sits up, then looks up at the trophy. He smiles and crosses to the ladder, and starts climbing. Bucky hops up after him, climbing the other side.
:Stevie Howard:
Dwight! Bucky! It comes down to this!
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Scott Simmonds is out of it, down at ringside!
Again, Dwight and Bucky begin trading blows up on top of the ladder. Bucky connects with a hard right hook... Dwight does likewise.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Friends and former stablemates battling! Only one can be the Commonwealth Cup winner!
:Stevie Howard:
The air is getting thick with tension!
Bucky spins and jumps. He manages to land back where he started - but the momentum carries his elbow into the side of Dwight's head! Dwight staggers back, one hand alone keeping him up on the ladder. Bucky roars, and pulls Dwight over the top of the ladder! He lifts him onto his shoulders.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Skyler looking for what looks like a Package Breaker or Cradleshocker from the top of the ladder!
He flexes his muscles - and Dwight drops down behind him! The ladder wobbles as Dwight lands on the rung beneath Bucky. He lifts Bucky up... and holds him in midair!
:Stevie Howard:
Stall from Dwight! And Bucky's in trouble!
Dwight jumps and falls backwards... and brings Bucky down into a fifteen-foot suplex! Bucky's back arches as he slams into the mat. Bucky rolls aside, the wind utterly knocked out of him. Dwight jumps up, screaming in triumph, then practically runs up the ladder.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Dwight Mare may be seconds away from claiming the Commonwealth Cup winner!
Dwight reaches the top of the ladder... he jumps... he grasps the trophy and, not even pausing, runs down the other side of the ladder to the mat! He drops onto his back, cradling the cup like a baby as the bell rings.
:Carly Mitchell:
Ladies and gentlmen, here is the winner of the match... and the winner of the Commonwealth Cup 2010... DWIIIIIIGHT... MAAAAAARE!
The fans bellow uproariously. Bucky and Scott are both still dazed, but Dwight is soon on his feet, raising the title above his head.
:Stevie Howard:
He did it. The kid did it.
:Mick 'Crell' Crellin:
Ladies and gentlemen... your Commonwealth Cup winner, right there! Second time lucky for that man... and the list of winners now reads, 2008: Baby Dogg, 2009: Mark Chapman... 2010... DWIGHT! MARE!
Dwight climbs up onto the ladder and raises the trophy above his head, screaming in triumph almost as loud as the fans.