Post by Avery Quinn on Mar 15, 2018 12:02:14 GMT -5
The camera cuts backstage, where the "East Side Beast" Vince Steel is making his way to his locker room. Judging by his unrelenting stride and the raging look on his face, his anger on losing his spot in the upcoming Cavalcade Match as a result of his actions last show still hasn't subsided. This is also apparent to the staff arounding, who scurry away rushedly as he goes past.
Eventually he reaches the locker room, and yanks the door open...
*SPLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSH!*
Vince Steel: "ARGH-!"
... and when he does, he's drenched from head to toe in a putrid-looking amber fluid, from a falling plastic bottle placed above the door, dropping on the floor.
Vince Steel: "The FUCK!?"
Still seething over his impromptu shower, he notices a little folded note, carefully taped onto the back of the door. Hurriedly, he rips it and unfolds it.
"To the East Side Beast, Vince Steel:
It has come to my attention that you're not the BRIGHTEST star in the sky, mang. Not only did you HAVE to interrupt our match last show, costing you the spot you securely had in the Cavalcade match, you also had the BRILLIANT idea of equating my career to a piss break.
And thus, chico, here's my sample of appreciation.
Hope you enjoy your piss break then, and know that things like THESE is why they call me... DA #TROLL GUY.
By the way - see you later tonight, chico. Hope you're not too PISSED!"
As its only signature, the note bears a Trollface.
"... problem?"
Vince Steel, understandably bristling with fury, notices something odd about the bottle, and proceeds to pick it up. Upon closer examination, it turns out the bottle's contents were not as disgusting as he would think..
"APPLE JUICE"
Vince Steel: "RRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGH!!!"
Further enraged after realizing he's been had, he crushes the bottle in his hands, and slamming the door on his way out, storms out of the room.
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Joe Stanton is somewhere in the bowels of the arena that looks more fitting for some demonic entity to slither out in a horror movie than necessarily a venue that hosts sporting events, most likely in part because of the scarlet mood lighting going on in the background. The Scarlet Speedster looks pretty focused, already dressed for battle, the IJPW Death Crown Championship & the KAMIKAZE Pro Tag Team League Championship sitting on a crate next to him, Stanton's doing the whole shadow bowing as he awaits the word to make his entrance. It's about the time the camera pans around him to get a proper front face shot that Joe's concentration is broken and he notices somebody's filming him.
"Best of Three Series."
Said with more glee than one probably should and with a gleam in his green eyes.
"If you had told me that's what would come out of my match with Trixie, well, not sure I'd believe it. But here we are, Match Two of Joe Stanton versus Trixie with me in the lead at one point."
The Scarlet Speedster thumbs his nose and he shrugs his shoulders in admission of where we're all at in this Best Of series.
"Now I could sit here and do the usual wrestler thing of talking about how big my number is, I could talk about how chicks dig me and how uber cool I am because of it, you know the shtick. But it wouldn't be really honest to how I feel about this match. It wouldn't be honest to how I feel about Trixie or this Best Of series."
A rather sardonic tone is taken when Stanton playfully teases the rhetoric of some of his contemporaries.
"Don't misunderstood me either, I'm just a soul whose intentions are good, I'm going to go out there and do what I do every single time I step into a ring. That's give everything I have into it being the best match yet of my career and the best match that any fan in attendance or watching at home has seen. I'm not going to hold back, if what I do ends this Best Of Series at two to nothing and Trixie loses, well, that'll be that. But..."
Stanton trails off and he looks off to the side momentarily.
"Ideally? I don't want that. What I want is Trixie to show everybody she's as good as I, and a whole lot of other people, know she is and show she's learned something from our last match together like I did. I want her to be better than last time, I want her to beat me and push us into a final jeopardy climatic third match. Because that'll be interesting, it'll be a challenge! It'll push me to be better and push us both to improve and learn."
There's that gleam in his eye again and his tone becomes passionate, excited even when he explains why he wants Trixie to step up her game for this second encounter, why he wants her to win.
"Because nobody likes reruns."
Nonchalantly added, Stanton scoops up his championships and he exits the scene to bring the segment to a close.
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Best of 3 Series
Trixie vs. Joe Stanton
The bell rang and the two met in the middle of the ring to shake hands before getting to business. They locked up and Joe took control from there using his size to try and keep her in check and connected with a german suplex. Trixie landed hard causing a reaction from the crowd. Joe didn’t want to lose any steam and pulled Trixie right back up and whipped her into the corner. Stanton went to charge in but was caught off guard when Trixie charged out and caught him with a dropkick sending him to the mat. Stanton quickly tried to get back to his feet but Trixie met him there. She connected with a snapmare followed by a low kick and looked to really looked to be in the driver's seat. Stanton quickly shut that down though as he connected with a spinning back heel kick that caught Trixie and then was followed up with an STO. The two continued to go back and forth until Trixie managed to catch Stanton with a fastball punch that dropped him to a knee. Trixie hit the ropes and connected with a shining wizard allowing her to pick up the pin and the victory.
Winner: Trixie
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Within the halls of the Rothman Center in Hackensack, New Jersey, Chelsea Pryce saunters in her ring attire with confidence in her body language. She’s making her way towards ringside for her upcoming match against Cosmo Cooper when suddenly…
? ? ?: “Ms. Pryce!”
Chelsea Pryce: “Sorry, I don’t do interviews on the spot…”
The Stiletto Knife turns around and a gentle smile crosses her face. The camera pans out to reveal the Spirit and Pride X Champion, Jessica Sears, with the gold draped across her right shoulder and a big grin on her face.
Jessica Sears: “I’m sure you have time to talk with an old friend.”
Chelsea Pryce: “Friend? More like a daughter.”
The older woman’s smile widens and she embraces the Paladin like a mother would their child. She even kisses the top of her head.
Chelsea Pryce: “I haven’t seen you in quite some time, sweetie. I’m surprised we haven’t run into each other backstage before.”
Jessica Sears: “Same place, different times, I guess. But hey, I finally found you! How have you been?”
Chelsea raises an eyebrow and chuckles.
Chelsea Pryce: “I’m not sure if this is the time for a long conversation. After all, I’m a few minutes away from making Cosmo Cooper my bitch…”
? ? ?: “I love it when she talks like that.”
Allen Chaney emerges from offscreen with his hands in the pockets of his hoodie. Try as she might Chelsea couldn't get him to dress nicer.
Allen Chaney: “See? That bloodthirsty attitude? That’s exactly why Chelsea is the best tag team partner I’ve ever had since…”
? ? ?: “A THIRD MYSTERY VISITOR APPROACHES!”
Chelsea looks up and raises an eyebrow. Jessica recognizes that voice and her soft blue eyes light up. Allen is slightly shocked when his former tag team partner enters, playing his Nintendo Switch.
Ollie Maverick: “And joining the promo in just a second… collecting the power moon... Aaaand boom goes POW block. I’m paying attention again. Hello friends! Didja miss me?”
Ollie Maverick smiles wide at his former tag partner Allen, Chelsea, and his Friend/Gaming Rival Jessica. Chelsea turns her head slightly, bewildered by the second surprise visit, but before she can say anything, Jessica gently pulls away and moves in to hug Ollie.
Jessica Sears: “You’re a light in the Dark Manor, Ollie! How have you been? What are you doing here? How are Ami, Chris, and Claire?”
So many questions. Chelsea chuckles softly and moves to stand next to Allen.
Ollie Maverick: “Ami and the Twins are amazing! I’ve been feeling better than I ever have in my life and… well, unfortunately, the Missus has limited me to competing in companies that are close to our home in New York. Hmmm… if only there were someplace in kinda the New York area with a buncha kickable faces where a little fella like me can show off his stuff...Hmmmm…”
Allen Chaney: “Is that a contract under your arm?”
Ollie Maverick: “It’s not NOT a contract.”
Chelsea Pryce: “That’s the SAP logo.”
For a 38-year-old woman, Chelsea’s vision is sharp. Jessica blinks and takes a step back after letting go of the hug.
Jessica Sears: “Wait, really? First, you challenge me in gaming, now you’re challenging me in wrestling? Assbutt.”
She sticks her tongue out for fun.
Ollie Maverick: “You’re a good friend, Jess… and I know it’s been a while since I’ve stepped into the ring proper… but whether it’s Flips or Fightsticks I bet I can hang with you. We can keep it light outside of the ring but once we’re both in it and that bell rings? Things will get Downright Heavy. Hashtag Hadoken.”
Ollie gets in her face a little bit, but it’s still friendly. A confident smirk crosses Jessica’s face. She doesn’t stand down from the challenge.
Jessica Sears: “Lest you forget… I’m a two-time Dance Dance Revolution Champion…”
She moves her hands to adjust the championship belt on her right shoulder.
Jessica Sears: “...and the current SAP X Champion. You better power grind and level up if you’re gonna step into my battle stage, Little Mav.”
Ollie Maverick: “Little Mav? Oh, this is more of a Kick-Off than a Punch-Out but I’ll be sure…”
Allen Chaney: “I think they’re just gonna stand here and make dork references at each other so it’s probably safe to leave.”
Allen says this to Chelsea as Jess and Ollie stare down and exchange nerdy verbal blows. Chelsea shakes her head with a chuckle.
Chelsea Pryce: “Oh, Spirit and Pride just became a lot more entertaining. Now… why don’t I show the world the beatdown I told Cosmo he couldn’t hide from?”
And just like that, her icy demeanor surfaces. The Ice Queen coldly smirks and takes the Comedian’s hand in hers. She raises it up and playfully twirls.
Chelsea Pryce: “No fairy magic can save him.”
Ollie Maverick: “...moves so slick you’d think I was using a Game Genie...”
Jessica Sears: “...you can’t overcome the Konami Code…”
Allen ignores Ollie and Jess.
Allen Chaney: “Fairly Oddparents reference? Really?”
Allen raises an eyebrow at Chelsea. She gives him a look and raises an eyebrow of her own.
Chelsea Pryce: “His name is Cosmo… and he used a Cosmo gif on Twitter the other day… did you miss that? I thought it was a dead giveaway since Rosalyn and Cole love that cartoon.”
Allen Chaney: “Great, now the theme is stuck in my head… That’s gonna take forever to forget.”
Ollie Maverick: “...like a Power Glove, my kicks are so BAD… but like a good bad. Like, 90’s bad…”
Jessica Sears: “...I was born in 1996. I don’t count as a 90’s kid, Ollie.”
Chelsea overhears the comparisons and rolls her eyes.
Chelsea Pryce: “Way to make me feel old. Damn kids.”
She smirks and begins to make her way towards ringside, though she doesn’t let go of Allen’s hand along the way.
Chelsea Pryce: “Doom and Gloom up in his room is broken instantly…”
Allen Chaney: “By his magic little fish that grant his….OH GOD DAMN IT!”
Wholeheartedly, Chelsea laughs as the Killing Joke walk alongside each other in song. The scene fades to black on Ollie and Jess still going back and forth with their nerdisms.
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Rachel Redding vs. Luca Di Paolo
This old rivalry was heated up tonight as the two made it clear early that neither cared for the other much. Luca locked up with Rachel thinking that he would be able to outmaneuver her. It didn’t turn his way as she quickly popped out of a headlock and whipped him into the ropes. Redding sent Di Paolo to the mat with a back body drop and then went straight to her signature stomps as she worked over the body of the golden eagle. Redding finished up with landing a double stomp right on to the gut of Luca. Redding called for him to get up. Di Paolo got to his knees and started to beg off Redding. Rachel just shook her head and then caught Luca with a snap ddt that looked to leave him out of it. Rachel headed for the corner and waited for Luca to stir. As he made it to his feet she shot out from the corner and connected with “Category 1” (V trigger). Rachel covered Luca and got the three count.
Winner: Rachel Redding
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Nora Harris: Respect. That’s a word that gets thrown around a lot in our business… though when did it become just a business? It’s a sport, it’s passion, it’s so much more than just the numbers that can get put up after a successful show. There’s nothing wrong with money, getting paid what you’re worth, that’s a good feeling isn’t it? But we weren’t talking about that. We’re talking about respect.
The camera is focusing on the back of Nora as she finishes lacing up her boots, she stomps, then jumps up and down in them to make sure they’re just right before she looks up and gives the brightest smile to the camera. A deep breath as she looks around the locker, she pauses to gather her thoughts as she heads out, a slightly more serious set to her features as she speaks though that smile peeks through now and then anyway as she nearly bounces with each step.
Nora Harris: I’ve been thinking a lot about it. Everyone wants it, even those… maybe especially those, that say they don’t. Even if it’s just someone putting some respect on their name. Thing about it, is you have to earn it. It’s freely given or it’s not real. Take the two men that I’m facing here tonight in a Cavalcade Showcase for example. Now I don’t know a whole lot about Stone Hendrix yet, but he seems like a good, sincere guy. I can respect that about him, because wrestling can be a meat grinder for guys like him if they aren’t careful.
She pauses slightly, flicking one of her long dark curls off her shoulder, her expression sweet and light.
Nora Harris: Don’t let it, Stone. ‘Kay? Because it’s worth it, to stay yourself and not change because everyone around you thinks they have to, to get ahead. Then there’s Eli. Oh he’s a… pistol. He’s raw, abrasive, and well, mostly kind of a dick.
Nora giggles a bit but then her mirth fades out and her expression is serious again.
Nora Harris: What I can respect about Elijah Carlson is the fact that in that ring, he’s so technically sound that it’s intimidating, it’s impressive, it’s in truth a bit daunting. If I hadn’t been trained by the man I was trained by, heck I might even be scared of someone that can do what he can do. More because he can over should? But he’s not just some guy that gets salty snacky on Twitter. That’s possibly the real him? But it doesn’t matter if it is or not because that’s just some words on a screen.
She shrugs and bounces as she moves, waving a bit to a few of the techs and workers that greet her as she goes.
Nora Harris: He’s sly, he’s brighter than he’s given credit for because he hides behind this ego construct he throws at everyone. They just see this giant ego and all the yack yack quack quack and forget that he’s good, really stinking good in that ring. That he’s not just a mouthy dude with some snarky hot takes on Twitter. He’s an honest to God wrestler and if you think he’s all talk with no walk he will stomp the life out of you and you’ll have had it coming.
A laugh and she shakes her head, her curls swaying from side to side over her pinky purple spangly gear.
Nora Harris: I can hear him in my head “I don’t need your boring uplifting compliments you little midget!” But it’s just the truth. I don’t see the smoke and mirrors, Eli. I see the wrestler… and that’s what makes me different than the people who usually come up at you that try to smash your head in with a shovel and pour concrete in the hole after you.
A light shrug as she moves along, another bright smile as she stops at the hall she has to turn down to get to the ringside area.
Nora Harris: That’s why I’m not going to be like you expect, Eli. Stone I think, gets it. You will. But most of all? I want to be, what Brendan Samuels sees in me. I’ve thought about what he said so much, so often… and it’s made this big difference, this big impact in me that I can’t ignore it. I have a goal now that’s beyond just wins, beyond the championships I know I’ll hold in the future. But to get there I have to make that journey and tonight? It’s some of the biggest steps I’ve had to take yet, and I’m not going to hold back or hesitate. You both deserve that respect too, no matter what you feel right now, or after.
She winks and then takes that turn, the camera cutting away elsewhere.
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Voice: One step closer. We’re just one step closer to Cavalcade...one step closer to glory for “The New Standard” once again.
The scene fades in on the grinning face of former SAP X Champion and 2017 Cavalcade winner Nick Redfield. Sitting on some set boxes backstage with his foot propped up against the wall, he jumps up to his feet once his blue eyes lock with the camera. He is already sporting his ring gear with a big match upcoming later in the evening.
Nick Redfield: I’m not arrogant. Anyone who knows me, anyone who has followed me over the course of the last year and a half can vouch for that. But I’m an honest man, and I like to call things like I see them. Now there’s a lot of doubts I have in life. I call b.s. on Bigfoot. There’s no possible way Loch Ness could be real. My uncle swears aliens rigged the 2004 ALCS. And you and I both know Robert Kardashian isn’t Khloe’s father.
He side-eyes the camera with his lips perked.
Nick Redfield: As we draw closer to Cavalcade though, there is one thing I have no doubt in my mind about it: I will win Cavalcade again this year! For me, 2017 was one heck of a year. This year, we’re just going to keep on building on what we accomplished, and that all starts with me winning Cavalcade. Every competitor on the SAP roster has the goal of being the top dog here, winning the Cavalcade match moves me one step closer to making that a reality.
He takes a deep breath as he lets that reality sink in.
Nick Redfield: But I can’t get ahead of myself just yet. I like to take life one day at a time, and before we can look forward to Cavalcade, we can focus on the task currently at hand. A one-on-one matchup with fellow Cavalcade competitor Andre Holmes.
Nick snickers and a sly smirk creeps across his face.
Nick Redfield: A former X Champion in his own right, this is hardly the first time Andre and myself will share the ring at the same time. This will, however, be the first time we’ve squared off in a straight-up singles match, one on one. Just a month ago, I left the Talmadge L. Field House with a victory over Andre and Rachel Redding. But this time is different...this time means more. With Cavalcade drawing near and momentum at its paramount importance, a win tonight is huge.
He pauses for a moment as he muddles through the thoughts running through his mind.
Nick Redfield: Andre, I know you’re just as hungry as I am. You’ve been putting the work in. You’ve been busting your backside doing everything you can to position yourself for a chance to walk out of a Cavalcade a winner. But I’m here to tell you that, despite how much I like you, despite how great I believe you can be...there’s a brick wall in your path and he goes by the name of Nick Redfield. Tonight, and at Cavalcade, there is nothing you can do to stop the inevitable, Andre. I’m a firm believe in destiny. I’m also a firm believer in the reality that our actions impact our destiny, and I will do everything I must to ensure I walk out of this match tonight victorious. I’ll do everything I must to ensure you’re hobbling into Cavalcade. Because not you nor anyone else is going to keep me from achieving all I’ve set out to achieve here in SAP this year, and I’m sorry but I don’t feel even a little bit bad about what that means for you or anyone else who has to suffer defeat along the way.
Once more he pauses, realizing the disconcerting nature of his words. Nick, a man generally among the most humble in the business today, can’t help but get swept up in the unparalleled competitiveness of SAP Wrestling.
Nick Redfield: 2018 is going to be the year of Nick Redfield. There are no ifs, no ands, no buts about it. Destiny is undeniable. Andre, tonight, you have the misfortune of having drawn a contest with the hungriest athlete on the roster. Are you up to the task? Can you survive the challenge? Because, Andre, I’m on the road to greatness here in SAP and nothing will halt my progress. I will not fail; I will not surrender. I must win.
Without another word, the confident competitor steps out of the picture and we fade to black.
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Cosmo Cooper vs. Chelsea Pryce
Chelsea seemed quite pleased honestly to be in the ring with Cosmo, she waved a finger at him then and loudly proclaimed that he really can’t hide from her now, despite what he said on Twitter. The fans crack up at Cosmo’s expression after this, and the referee waved for the bell. Chelsea went on the fast attack by going for a Lariat Takedown but Cosmo took the hit and then flipped around backward and rolled right to his feet, avoiding her usual transition into a submission! He grinned and ripped her up off the mat for a Stalling Suplex, and then as she tried to rise he caught her with an Oklahoma Roll and got a very near three! Pryce made a little distance with an elbow to the jaw of Cooper and quickly scrambled to her feet, looking for her Roundhouse Kick The K.O. Shot - Cosmo caught her and countered with a Dragon Screw Leg Whip! He got a huge pop after he completed it and held on to Chelsea, lifting both of them up and hitting the move again! He laughed after she kicked out of the pin following, and rolled backwards up to his feet, fading back before rushing in as she stood. He was going for the Crater Maker, grappling up with Chelsea as she got to her feet but as he flipped her for the Tombstone Piledriver and bent his knees for the lift, she fought with everything she had and wiggled her way out of his grasp and tumbled to the mat in a heap for a second while Cosmo kipped up and the fans cheered.
As she surged up to her feet he caught her with a Bicycle Knee that had her reeling, and he slid around behind her to yank her off her feet for a Deadlift German Suplex! He got a two on the cover and when they rose up he spun her around into a hard Irish Whip to the ropes! Cooper set up for a Backbody Drop but Pryce slid in for her version of a Hangman’s Neckbreaker, the Joker’s Reversal! She attempted a pin but Cooper powered out and rolled toward the ropes, Chelsea popped up and waited but as he came up and she rushed him he sidestepped, grabbed her and lifted her up for a huge O’Connor Roll German Suplex Toss right into the top turnbuckle! She staggered and came out of the corner, dropped to her knees and clutched her shoulder! Cosmo advanced in close but she held up a hand, begging off and when he turned his head to look to the referee she low blowed him fast and caught him in an Inside Cradle! The referee was out of position to see her shenanigans and he counted the pin, Cooper breaking free a second too late and rightfully just a bit less than mellow over the situation at hand. Chelsea came up and had the referee raise her hand, proclaiming her innocence over Cosmo’s assertions and he put his hands up in a clear are you serious gesture as the referee told him again that he didn’t see the offense.
Winner: Chelsea Pryce
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RECORDED EARLIER IN THE DAY:
💎Cartier💎: CC I swear to god bitch you is drivin' me mothafuckin' crazy wit dis shit!
Cartier is standing outside a bathroom door in a pair of Space Jam pajamas and fuzzy slippers. She has a night cap over her hair and it's apparent she hasn't been out of bed long.
💎Cartier💎: You been in this damn bafroom for a whole hour... bitch what is you doin'? Yo ass know I gots to get ready and go to New Jersey today! I got big shit goin' on!
Cartier hammers her fists on the door rapidly, making her bubble butt jiggle from the impact.
"Hold onnnnnnnnnnnnnn! DAMN!"
The voice from inside the bathroom comes through the door, and keeps murmuring after.
💎Cartier💎: BITCH! Is you just sittin' in there talkin' on yo damn phone? To who? That bitch nigga Tito from the damn bodega? I'm fittin' to buss this door down an fuck you up for real, girl.
Cartier storms off and there's a lot of noise from somewhere unseen. A few moments later she returns with an arm full of various objects. She has a can of beans, a coat rack, and a big picture of a black last supper. She starts ramming the coat rack into the bathroom door, shaking it in its moorings.
💎Cartier💎: I'm gonna kill you girl! I need to get in there right fuckin' now! I got to get my hair did, get my shit straight, and make sure I be lookin' fly for the SAP show! And I gotta piss! You know I drink a bunch of water before shows! Come ON, bitch!
The head of the coat rack snaps off after denting the door inward a little. Cartier tosses it on the floor.
"Girl are you crazy out there? Do I need to call thee fuckin' PO-lice?"
💎Cartier💎: NO BITCH you need to call a fuckin' ambalamps cuz I'm gonna hurt you for real!
Cartier then grabs the can of beans in her hand and starts slamming it into the doorknob, trying to break it off. This doesn't work either, and soon enough Cartier grabs the large wall painting and looks to slam it into the door as well but just then the door swings open and CC storms out cussing up a storm.
"BITCH WHAT THEE FUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU?!? You know my mama gave me that picture now put that shit back up on the wall you crazy ass ho!"
💎Cartier💎: I got yo bitch right here bitch! I been waitin' to get in this damn bafroom all mornin' you trfilin' ass bitch! I should pull them cheap ass hairs out yo head and flush 'm down the damn toilet that you been sittin' on chattin' wit' Tito! I got a battle royal! There's tough bitches in that shit, and Desiree Jenkins too! You know that ho gon' be mad after I whupped her ass last time. And that fuckboy Jaser and his coon ass gonna bee there too, and I owe that nigga somethin' for makin' us lose on the last show! This a big deal CC I ain't got time for you to be all petty and stupid, for real!
Cartier takes a deep breath and drops the painting on the floor. CC fumes and grabs it, storming off.
"You lucky I don't have time to beat yo' ass bitch."
💎Cartier💎: Bitch I wish you would try...
Cartier then goes into the bathroom and slams the door shut.
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Nick Redfield vs. Andre Holmes
It was very clear from the start that both of these young wrestlers wanted what Andre had stated on Twitter - for this to be the match of the night! There was no usual sort of ‘feeling out’ at the start of the match, the two locked up immediately as the bell rang and Nick broke out of the Collar-and-Elbow Tie Up to slide around and slap on a classic Sleeper Hold! Andre fought out of the hold with a brief chuckle then he went for a kick to the midsection on Nick. It connected and bent Nick over but when Andre grabbed him to try a Fallaway Slam, Nick's elbow connected hard with his chin. Andre went down to one knee with his right arm down on the mat to try and brace himself and then there was Nick and he stepped off Andre's raised knee with one foot, swinging his other leg over and struck Holmes' head with the side of his knee sharply. Andre reeled and went down flat on the mat after the knee to the head, Nick rolled through and came to his feet before he faded off to the ropes. Andre rolled to his feet and looked for Nick before he charged toward him with a Clothesline attempt that Nick ducked and countered off with an Irish Whip! Andre however anticipating a possible Backbody Drop caught himself on the top rope and tapped his temple to indicate that he was 'smart' and then turned back toward the ring only to have Redfield right there and he gaped in surprise as Nick grabbed him and hoisted him up for an Overhead Belly-to-Belly Suplex! BANG! He got a quick two after floating over but Andre easily powered out.
The pair traded off a lot of shots back and forth, and even a bit of very crisp chain wrestling that got the fans excited after they went through, between the two of them it was a Suplex Clinic! Neither man could quite get full control of the match throughout the middle and latter portion however, and there was tension mounting in the crowd as the fans cheered them both on, wondering what it would be that would tip the control one way or the other firmly. It seemed that it would be Andre after he got off a Bad Landing, the Powerbomb into the corner taking some fight out of Redfield, but as Andre got him up and sitting on the top turnbuckle, before he could climb up after him Nick got the upperhand finally as he rocked Andre with some Forearm Smashes before he jumped up and delivered a stunning Inverted Hurricanrana that took both wrestlers down to the mat hard from that high up! They lay groaning on the mat but Nick was up to his feet first and determined to keep his hard fought for control, he pulled Andre up and executed The Sexiest Piledriver You’ve Ever Seen! Nick is quick to float over and hook the leg, gaining the three count and the victory!
Afterward he helped Andre to his feet and shook his hand before raising it up himself to show respect for the skill and talent of his opponent, a nice show of sportsmanship before he left the ring to celebrate his victory with the fans.
Winner: Nick Redfield
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Announcer: Introducing, from Cheatham County, Tennessee...
Four hard chords echo out over the masses, followed by four more. “You ever heard a gripped-up, three-quarter ton doin’ a hundred?” The Jersey crowd bob their heads with the beat as Demun Jones’ “Rah!” thumps the foundations of the Rothman Center. Matthew Gamble bursts through the curtain, amping the cheers from the six thousand strong.
Announcer: ...he is six and a half feet tall and weighs two-hundred sixty-five pounds…
A striking difference in appearance since failing to qualify for Cavalcade, the large, young man normally covered in Mossy Oak camouflage, is wearing Harley¤Davidson Bill STs tucked under the leg of his ‘worn and torn’ Wranglers with a belt and Official white “Ev0lve” T-shirt under an open blue-and-white-pinstripe button-up. Backward on his head, a black “Dogs of War” ball cap; he has a watch on his left wrist and he's carrying a microphone in his right hand.
Announcer: ...this is MATTHEW GAMBLE!
Gamble has cleaned up and, as Gronk-like as he was, he seems to have hulked-up since receiving some words of advice from his last opponent. There is definitely a newfound confidence about him as he pumped the crowd, rapping along through the first verse, using his hands to enhance the words and failing miserably to dance. It didn't affect the crowd though, because all at once, in unison, at the top of their voices, everybody in attendance went…
“RAHHH!”
The crowd added with the chorus as Gamble started toward the ring he slapped hands with fans as he passed. He stops at ringside to shake hands with his mentor and then, he turned a quick one-eighty, grabbed the middle rope and stepped up onto the apron. He wipes his boots before bounding over the top rope into the ring. He holds his arms out wide to each side, asking with his hands for the fans to subside. As the crowd settles, he takes position in the center of the ring and brings the microphone to his beaming smile.
Matthew Gamble: Okay, so some o’ ya ain't gonna like this, but I’ma hafta be real honest wit’ ya’all.
He takes out his cellular and swipes then taps the screen a few times before quickly locks the device, blacking the screen as the production truck pans over his shoulder.
Gamble: See, when I gots on Twitter an’ found Sweetness, I’s lookin’ fer’a bit o’rebound. Knowin’ I’s hittin’a road, I’s lookin’ fer sumptin’ no-strings, ya know?
He holds up his cellular, shaking his head. Dropping the telephone, he brings the microphone back to his smirk. He points to the brunette from Harmony Lake seated in the front row with his mentor.
Gamble: I saw Celeste an’, I'll a’mit it, I gotsa type. I saw the pictures she's postin’ an’ she fit’a bill perfect. I mean, she wearin’a tee that says, “Not Wife Material”. Purdy much screams no-strings, right?
He drops his head, ‘clears his throat’ laughing and then continues, fighting wholehearted laughter.
Gamble: I’s floored findin’ out that she not only gotsa man, but now he wants’a fight me fer doin’ what’ll come natural to any blood pumpin’ man who jus’ might happen on ‘em pictures.
He jumps up on the turnbuckle, addressing the entrance and locker room behind it.
Gamble: So, hows ‘bout aft’r ya gets beat up tonight, at Cavalcade, we settle up Cross. Makes it official, here an’ now. Come on outside, in’a parkin’ lot, circled by beat up cars. I’ll kick yer ass all ‘cause I said Sweetness is sexy, proven time an’a ‘gain that yer an ass an’ be settled.
He drops down off of the turnbuckles, passed the microphone to the referee and starts preparing for the match.
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Our scene comes to life with silence. Two big, hulking bodyguards that have been affectionately named Huey and Duey stand with arms folded on either side of Eli Carlson who sits on a steel folding chair, his head tipped backward slightly, resting against a large crate while his feet are kicked up onto a small chair. Sunglasses adorn his eyes as his chest rises and falls rhythmically. Half a moment later backstage interviewer Yasmeen Sherazi pops onto the scene with a microphone in her hand. Looking to get his attention she reached out to tap him on the leg but one of the two bodyguards, the larger one named Huey, grabbed her by the wrist and shook his head.
Bodyguard Huey: “You not touch Eli.”
Gently she tried to pry her wrist free from Huey’s grasp but it was to no avail. At the same moment, Duey spoke up.
Bodyguard Duey: “You not Genie. Eli sleep. You leave.”
Huey released Yasmeen’s wrist to let her go, a huff coming from her in response which seemed to disturb Eli’s slumber. With a sigh he reached up and removed the sunglasses he had been wearing, a scowl creasing his brow in annoyance. Still, the fact that Eli was awake now caused Yasmeen to plant her feet in the ground, determined to get an interview with the cavalcade contestant.
Yasmeen Sherazi: “Eli… if you don’t mind I’d like to take a few moments just to ask you a few questions.”
Rolling his eyes, Eli dropped his feet down off of the chair and down to the floor.
Elijah Carlson: “Oh but I do mind, Yasmeen. I do mind. See, I’m really not a difficult guy to reach. My phone works just fine. All you’ve got to do is dial that number and give me a call ahead of time and I would be glad to sit down and answer your questions. But instead you want to approach me out of nowhere, I imagine to catch me off guard and put me on the defensive right off the bat and, truth be told, I don’t take kindly to being treated in such a way.”
Clearing his throat for a moment, Eli brings his hand to his mouth to stifle a yawn.
Elijah Carlson: “So tonight you won’t be asking any questions but you can stand there and do your best to look like the four that you are on your best day while the Face of this company talks to the roster. Deal?”
His question was more of a rhetorical one, a fact that was emphasized by Huey and Duey taking a step forward when she opened her mouth to answer. Thinking better of it, Yasmeen closed her mouth a moment later and simply nodded her head.
Elijah Carlson: “Good. Now, to the rest of the Spirit and Pride roster I can’t help but ask each one of you when enough is going to be enough. When is someone going to finally have the courage to stand up and try to put me in my place? Is it really going to have to wait until I walk out of Cavalcade with a championship opportunity against anyone I chose? Is it really going to have to wait until Brendan Samuels and I are booked against each other? And make no mistake about it, Fujiko isn’t going to take that title off of him. She’ll choke in the big moments just like she always does. But is it really going to take until then for someone to speak up? I’m BEGGING someone… ANYONE… to step up. And yet every single week it’s…”
Eli chirps a few times, mimicking a cricket, before laughing to himself.
Elijah Carlson: “I guess a lot changes over the course of two years. That’s all it has taken, you know? Not even a full two years, really. We’re closing in on it but it was nearly two years ago that I stepped foot inside of a professional wrestling ring. Nine months it took me to climb to the top of the greatest wrestling promotion in the world, Four Corners Wrestling, and topple one of the most beloved wrestlers the fans have ever gotten behind in Jair Hopkins. Nine months. In the same amount of time that I’ve been competing in SAP, I had already earned a number one contendership by capturing the contract in the Warzone of Horrors match at Fright Night 2016. Every challenge that has ever come my way I’ve met head on. Any time someone has been foolish enough to run their mouth about me, I’ve met them head on. I have never, not one single time, backed down from a fight in my life.”
Pausing for suspense, Eli held up his index finger as silence filled the scene for a few brief moments before he continued on.
Elijah Carlson: “I had thought, judging by the name of this company, that that was what I would find here when I did Phoenix a favor and became a full fledged member of this roster. I thought I would find other competitors with the spirit and heart of a warrior, ready to fight anyone at any time. I thought I would find others with the same amount of pride in themselves and in the work that they did. I thought I would find people just like me. But instead…”
Another shake of his head, his expression shifting from irritation to disappointment.
Elijah Carlson: “Instead what I’ve found is a roster full of neutered little bitches. I’ve found a roster more concerned with sunshine, daisies and goddamn gummy bears than a desire to become the absolute best this world has to offer. I thought I would find people like me… but instead I found sheep waiting to be slaughtered.”
The disappointment quickly shifted into a smirk as he pushed himself upright, sunglasses dangling from his fingertips.
Elijah Carlson: “If that’s what they want to be then so be it. I’ll be the one to drag the knife across their throats.”
Stepping forward, Eli stopped in front of Yasmeen and stared at her long and hard until finally brushing past her, exiting the scene with Huey and Duey following closely behind.
______________________________________________________________________________
Mariano Fernandez vs. Vince Steel
Vince towered over Mariano to start, trying to intimidate Da #TROLL GUY, but Manny refused to be intimidated. He went after Vince, trying to break down his vertical base, but Vince was more angered than hurt. He lifted Manny over his head, but Manny wriggled out and landed behind him, then hit him with a chop-block that put him in control. He continued to chip away at Vince, focusing his offense on Vince’s right leg. However, Vince was able to swat Manny’s attempt at “The Gadfly” away, and hit Manny with a nasty german suplex. He then hit Manny with a big running powerslam for a two count!
Vince looked like he was ready to put Manny away, but Manny refused to back down, hitting Vince with an “Arrow to the knee” (dropkick to the knee) before coming down on him with a pele kick! He then tried to lift Vince for the Dovahkiin Driver, but Vince powered out, got some space, and hit him with a big spear!
Vince then slowly got back to his feet, but suddenly he notices Xavier Laroux in the crowd, taunting him! Vince looks down at Manny, and then at the approaching Xavier, before cursing and leaving the ring. Xavier sees him coming and taunts him more! Vince hops the guardrail and is lead away by Xavier! Manny gets to his feet, and looks frustrated as the referee counts Vince out.
Winner: Mariano Fernandez
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The shows fades in backstage to show Matt Gamble and Celeste standing amongst the technical equipment while ring crew pass by. They are both dressed in their ring gear as their tag match draws near. The camera moves closer as they converse.
Matt Gamble: Again, I'm really sorry to cause you trouble Celeste. T’wasn’t my intention at all. Still...I hope you think about what I said and see how yer boyfriend acted this whole time.
Celeste: Look Matt, I know he may have overreacted just a bit, but having that time alone and really thinking about it, I realize he was trying to protect our relationship. Can you really say you wouldn't do the same in a similar situation?
Celeste gestured with her hands as Matt placed his on his hips and turned his head slightly upward to consider the notion. Finally, he looked down at Celeste and nodded.
Matt Gamble: I guess you ‘ave a point darling. It just feels wrong to be on the other side of the situation.
Celeste: I know. We can't be anything more than friends Matt. And I can't have you calling me names like “sweetness” because that sends the wrong message. If you really do care about me and a friendship, then you can do this.
Gamble nods slowly.
Matt Gamble: I'll try ma’am. I gots to get to Ash’s locker room. Guess we have some strategy to beat you and CJ tonight so you better look out.
Gamble chuckles as he takes a couple steps backwards. Unfortunately, his boots get snagged on some cables running along the ground. He immediately starts to fall backwards. His arms thrash around, searching for purchase. Celeste gasps as she becomes the one thing they find. Gamble crashes to the floor, pulling Celeste down with him. She lets out a little shriek and shuts her eyes to brace for any impact.
When she opens them again, she realizes she is sitting on top of Matt. He gazes up at her in shock. Celeste realizes she is straddling his hips because of how they landed. Her eyes grow wide, but before she can make a move to correct this unfortunate position...the sound of her boyfriend's voice shatters the quiet.
CJ: WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON HERE!
Celeste finally jumps off Gamble immediately after CJ shouts. The camera turns to show how irate he is. Celeste waves her arms and shakes her head in a bit of a panic.
Celeste: No, no, no it's not what it looks like CJ! He tripped and pulled me down and it was all an accident!
Gamble gets to his feet. He says nothing. Only gives CJ a glare, daring him to try anything. When CJ glares back but makes no move, Gamble backs away and then heads down the hall and out of the situation. Celeste is left with the task of damage control.
CJ: And why should I believe that?! He's been all over you since day one and you have hardly done anything about it. You let him talk to you that way he does!
Celeste: Are you kidding me?! That's why he was here CJ! So I could tell him to stop. I was adamant about it too. Spending this past weekend without you made me realize how much I miss you and love you and I don't want anything to come between us again.
CJ: And yet I find you on top of him because he “tripped”...whatever. I'll see you when out match starts.
CJ walks off in the opposite direction Gamble went. Celeste stands there distraught and unsure of what to do. She watches him go as the scene fades out.
______________________________________________________________________________
Cavalcade Showcase
Eli Carlson vs. Nora Harris vs. Stone Hendrix
The three went for a quick feeling out process before the three tried to cement some leverage over the other. Stone caught Eli with a short arm clothesline that sent him to the mat before whipping Harris hard into the corner. Eli got back up and went for a russian leg sweep but Hendrix blocked it. Nora came in for the assist and hit Hendrix in the chest with a dropkick that allowed Eli to take him down with the sweep. As Eli was getting back to his feet Nora flipped over him connecting with a sunset flip. Eli managed to break free at two and the two of them quickly got back to a standing position. Carlson hit Nora with a boot to the gut followed up by a snap suplex. Stone followed suit of Nora and as Eli was getting up this time he caught him with a blockbuster. Nora charged at Stone but he saw her coming and lifted her into the air for a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. Eli had gotten up and Stone whipped him into the ropes. Hendrix went for a hip toss but Carlson blocked it and then drove a knee into the gut of Stone before creating some separation to send him to the mat with a rocker dropper. During the exchange Nora had climbed to the top rope. As Eli got to his feet and turned around Nora jumped and caught Eli with a super version of “Hello patella” (double knee facebreaker). Carlson hit the mat hard and rolled to the floor. As Hendrix was getting up Nora ran right over and quickly put her fingers to her lips in a shush motion to crowd and connected with “Code of Silence” (fall away DDT style move with spinning impact). Harris made the cover, Eli tried to slide in but the ref counted three right before he could make the break.
Winner: Nora Harris
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“It’s an old joke, but there’s a reason it’s still around.” Allen says, pacing backstage.
“A man walks into a talent agency and says ‘Have I got an act for you!’. The talent agent says ‘Alright, let’s hear what it is.’ And the man says ‘Well there’s this big angry fat fuck and we put him on the stage. We march out a bunch of pretty people and we ring a bell and one by one this big ugly angry motherfucker just starts massacring everybody. People are having their guts torn out and their heads stomped on and everyone that steps in this dudes path just gets torn to shreds. All that is left of the pretty people is just a pile of goo which the big dude rather unceremoniously dumps off of the stage.’ The man says. The talent agent says ‘Well that sounds like a hell of an act….what do you call it?’ and the man says…..’The Aristocrats’.” Allen says with all the flair of a professional Comedian.
“For those of you unfamiliar with that joke, it’s something of a tradition amongst comedians. The point of it is that in the middle you can describe the act in whatever way you see fit and then the punchline then becomes how disappointing the actual punchline is. The middle part always has to be shocking, most people involving a family engaging in many unsavory acts. At one point I told this joke for 27 minutes. I chose to go for a much less scatological and sexual version of this joke but I think I’ve adequately made my point.” Allen says with a shrug.
“A big beautiful brawl. There’s no place I belong more in this world.” Allen Chaney says, he was dressed in his usual backstage attire of fight shorts, his ‘Comedian’ t-shirt, and a hoodie. We typically see him with his tag partner and suspected girlfriend Chelsea Pryce but this time he is on his own.
“I was a bouncer for several years. I’ve been in some massive scrapes you wouldn’t believe. Honestly there’s no place I feel more at home than in a big pile of humanity, throwing elbows and fists at whatever is moving. In case you hadn’t picked up on this…I’m a big fan of violence. There’s nothing funnier to me than the sensation of stepping on the head of another person. Cranial trauma is my favorite ‘gag’ as a Comedian.” Allen says.
“There are a lot of folks in that I’ve never met, well please allow me to introduce myself. If you have the sack to step to me you’re gonna learn why they call me the Comedian. It’s not because I’m a joke, it’s because once that bell rings? The joke is on you.” Allen says. He cracks his neck and walks offscreen.
______________________________________________________________________________
Ashley Maldano & Matthew Gamble vs. Celeste & CJ Cross
As soon as the bell rang there was no deciding who would start for each team as CJ and Matt rand out from their corners and quickly started to brawl. CJ came in throwing wild haymakers but wound up missing a lot of them allowing the much larger Gamble to take control. Gamble hit a few right hands and then threw him into the corner. Gamble started to fire away the referee called for a break, Gamble didn’t comply at first but the referee wedged himself between them to force the break. Gamble took some steps back and then when the ref moved he came charging in, CJ lifted himself up onto the top turnbuckle and stuck his feet out catching Gamble right on the chin. Cross then turned himself and fully climbed to the top and went for a moonsault, however to CJ’s misfortune Gamble caught him and drove him into the mat with a hard powerslam before tagging in Ashley. CJ was starting to get up when Maldano hit the ring. Ashley landed a few strikes before sending him over with a snap mare and then hit him with a hard knee to the back of the head. Cross looked to be hurting and Ashley loved it, looking over to Celeste telling her to look what she’s doing to her man. As Maldano turned to grab CJ he was already on his way to his feet. She threw a right hand but he blocked it and then connected with a belly to belly suplex. Cross made his way to his corner quickly and tagged in Celeste. Celeste came in quickly but Maldano tagged out to Gamble. Matthew sheepishly entered the ring and then turned to Ashley on the apron and tagged her back in. Maldano quickly got aggravated and asked him “what the hell are you doing?”, Gamble explained he didn’t want to hurt Celeste. Gamble exited to the apron. Ashley went to tag him back in but he dropped to the floor. On the other side of the ring CJ had enough and dropped to the floor. He ran around the ring and and dove right at Gamble taking him to the floor. The two began to roll around exchanging blows. Celeste yelled for them to stop but neither one of them was listening. Maldano saw this as her chance and she pulled Celeste away from the ropes catching her by surprise and then caught her with the “AshFall
(Sitout inverted front powerslam). Maldano then hooked the leg and got the three count.
Winners: Ashley Maldano & Matthew Gamble
______________________________________________________________________________
Backstage inside the Rothman Center, the iconic duo that has been setting the industry on fire was backstage, ready to set yet another fire in the ring under SAP Banner again, this time in the much-talked about Battle Royal for the final Cavalcade spot and the duo were included. However their spirit was untouched as their aura still had its effect. Masaru’s eyes gazed straight-forward towards, hard to pinpoint exactly what had his attention but Olly was right there on his left shoulder, perched as the lovely Aurora who had her half of the PW Duos Championship shined up bright, sporting an unruffled demeanor.
MASARU INOUE: Tonight, we usually lay slaughter to whomever feels the need to try their luck against us in tag-team action but no, let’s be put in a large field of competitors and slay them all until we are the last standing....and then we dance the night away!
Masaru’s lightly snickered at that thought of having that vision come true. He looked on his shoulder at Olly before smiling over towards Aurora.
MASARU INOUE: Their teams needed a break from Hell Is Waiting, so why not place the two in a fierce battle for a number one spot in the Cavalcade. Why not let them test their skills against a field who’s just as hungry. Most of these names...they may be big elsewhere and yes, they may be hungry but they are going to starve tonight!
Masaru smile is an alert for the smell of fresh blood. That fresh blood being the twenty-eight others competing for that spot.
AURORA: I was… pleased to see that Richard Roque is back in a ring. I’m sure he’ll take this chance and make the most of it… if it be to scratch that old competitive itch, or show off the results of his RTBF program, either way, he could come out sitting pretty. I can’t say that I’m against people wanting to live out a dream, to better themselves. I mean, honestly there’s no one in this match that I have ill will towards…
Her smile is sweet, if sly to be on those plush lips as she looks over at her trusted one, her gaze following along as Olly looks from side to side on his perch.
MASARU: That is true! I saw the light chatter and even liked and retweeted it but let's be honest, all that muscle, that brawn, it will be just a waste. For the fact he is Phoenix, he’s one of ours, I hope he fares well. Really the freshest body of them all here tonight. A slither of a chance.
AURORA: A slither of a chance! He’s no serpent in our garden, at the least. And we’ve done well, so very outstanding in these battle royals over the course of last year, and this. As I’m sure the fans had a treat from the last one we were in together…
She grins, thinking of how that turned out, and her attention goes to Masaru again.
AURORA: These are interesting times, I always wondered why people look on that as a curse.
Masaru reaches into the side of his Black, Leather Trench Coat, pulling out his phone from the right pocket. He gives it attention for several minutes before hoisting it up.
MASARU: I figure we rarely get these kind of moments but a Selfie that is full-on royalty. You and I... one of us will be heading into Cavalcade at the end of the night! I need to add this to our Selfie collection!
______________________________________________________________________________
Backstage at the show, Lilah Reed stands in front of a full length mirror, she’s turning back and forth as she preens. Pouting and posing for herself in the mirror, when she notices the camera she lets out an exaggerated smile.
Lilah Reed: I know RIGHT!? I just look so fucking good on camera, how has it possibly been so long since my beautiful face graced your screens for a little chitchat?
Lilah pouts again and wrings her hands out under her eyes as though she’s mock crying.
Lilah Reed: I’m sure you’ve all just been big old cry babies in my absence, I mean… look at me! OF COURSE you missed me! But do you wanna know a secret boys and girls?
Lilah steps closer to the camera, she holds her open hand next to her mouth and stage whispers.
Lilah Reed: It’s because recently, this whole thing has SUCKED!
She nods her head emphatically, stepping back with a smirk, she catches sight of her reflection again and starts to pose for herself once more.
Lilah Reed: Every show, Charlie and I? We show up, we kick butt and people make excuses… boo hoo someone distracted me, wahwahwah I wasn’t ready. The same losers rolling around in the ring like they earned the right to challenge for our championships! Honestly? It’s just down right fucking RUDE.
Lilah stamps her foot to add exclamation to the word, she turns to face the camera once more with her arms folded over her chest and shakes her head.
Lilah Reed: We’ve been SO dominant in fact, that the big old meanies who run the place keep shoving us into random singles matches to try and keep us busy! Because the fact of the matter is… nobody they put before us is challenging us, we are your WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS and we’re wrestling singles matches! Come on, that’s just, so. Fucking. RUDE!
She throws her arms up obviously exasperated by the whole thing. A stifled laugh is heard just off camera as we see Charlie Reed sitting there with both World Tag Team Championship belts on his lap.
Charlie Reed: You ain’t lying baby. We are the only tag team of note here in SAP and they are putting us in clusterfuck matches in hopes that our star power will brighten the less thans. I get it, I don’t care as much as my beautiful wife does but I get it. I’d much rather be defending our championships and resetting the record books again and again with our sheer awesomeness. But what ya gonna do? You know I remember when SAP made a call to all tag teams to come here and test themselves against us and see if they can handle what we bring.
Charlie holds up both of the World Tag Team Championship belts and smirks to the camera.
Charlie Reed: Spoiler alert… We are still standing fucking taller than anyone.
Lilah has turned back to the mirror and is pouting to herself, as she realizes the camera is back on her she rolls her eyes and shoos it off.
Lilah Reed: No no NO. I am done talking to the so called “fans” and I am done wasting my star power, when we are recognized as the great, no, the amazing and unbeatable tag team that we are, THEN I will talk.
Charlie smirks again as he rises to his feet.
Charlie Reed: You know what they say… Happy wife, happy life.
He leans towards the camera and whispers.
Charlie Reed: And she’s very good at making me happy.
He then pushes the camera by the lens out of the locker room and closes the door on it.
______________________________________________________________________________
The opening guitar riffs of “Champion” by Fall Out Boy echo throughout the arena, causing the crowd to break out into cheers.
The lights begin to dim, bringing attention to the sole light, which is right in front of the curtain.
The curtain parts, and a figure backs into view of the camera, a hood over their head to mask their identity.
The music drops out for a second, but when it kicks back in, the figure spins around and tosses the hoodie back to reveal Fujiko Mine. The lights come back up, and Fujiko grins and poses. There is a few short moments, and then it is clear that she is going to the ring alone. Instead of her ring attire, she’s in a pair of yoga pants and her “Popular” white t-shirt.
Announcer: ...from Milwaukee, Wisconsin; please welcome the “Apex Goddess”, FUJIKO MINE!!!
Fujiko bobs her head to the music, until she reaches the apron. She hops up onto it, then she perches on the top rope. She poses on the top rope, throwing her hands out to her sides and soaking in the adulation. Fujiko then comes down off the top rope and walks around the table that has the contract on it. She stares down at the portfolio for a few moments, and then shakes her head. She looks over at the table, which has a microphone on it. Without taking one, she backs into the corner and hoists herself up, sitting on the opposite corner while she waits for the National champion. She taps at her left wrist, signifying that she’s waiting.
“The Heart of the Sea” by Flogging Molly blasts over the PA, as Brendan Samuels paces out from the back, ignoring the crowd as he marches on down the ramp, the National Championship around his waist. He is not carrying his traditional flag, having gifted that to Phoenix a number of months ago. He is clad in a pair of white khaki trousers, smart dress shoes and an open Hawaiian shirt, his bare and ripped torso exposed.
Announcer: Sailing in from Cobh, County Cork, Ireland… He is the Spirit and Pride National Champion… His name is BRENDAN SAMUELS!!!
He rolls into the ring, remaining on one knee as he utters a prayer under his breath before looking skywards. Fujiko motions at him, but The Kraken turns away from her, unhooking his prized championship belt before he raises it to the sky, roaring out to the crowd, asking them what the champion’s name is. “His Name Is Brendan” begins to ring out loud and clear for all to hear, bringing a disgruntled look from the North American Championship contender. Fujiko then motions to the microphones, Brendan pacing over to one with a smug grin upon his face as he gave his next opponent a respectful nod. He takes a seat, pushing up his shades as he stares out with those icy blues of his, starring a cold hole in his opponent as he rests his feet upon the table, motioning for her to speak first like a gentleman.
She takes a moment for the chant to die down before hopping down from the turnbuckle. She paces around for a short bit, then picks up a microphone and turns her back to the National champion.
Fujiko Mine: Hackensack, New Jersey…
The crowd knows what is coming next, and cheers loudly.
Fujiko Mine: Your Goddess is here.
The crowd cheers loudly, with Fujiko smirking as a small section of the crowd begins a “Fujiko” chant. The majority of the crowd catches on, and then the Rothman Center begins rocking.
“FU-JI-KO!”
“FU-JI-KO!”
“FU-JI-KO!”
“FU-JI-KO!”
“FU-JI-KO!”
She raises the microphone to her lips again, with the chant dying out to the point that she can be heard. She takes in a breath, as if she is going to speak.
Fujiko Mine: And I don’t even have to think about this.
She walks over to the table, sets down the microphone, grabs one of the two pens. She clicks it with a flourish, then opens the folder and signs her name while looking directly into Brendan’s face. She sets the pen down, and then moves back to her perch on the turnbuckle and gestures to him. She mouths “Your move” at him, with a slight head nod. Brendan merely smiles, gazing on her with those glacier like eyes of his. He places his feet down, resting his chin over his fists as he looks on with a smile. He never looks away from her, never breaking the stare as his smile grows ever wider. Without looking away, he takes the contract and the pen, getting a loud cheer from the audience as he signs on the dotted line, before sliding it back over to Fujiko. She gazes down on it, a surprised look on her face as the camera zooms in upon it.
Brendan had signed his name as “The Wrestling”.
The surprised look on her face remains as fans of the National champion begin to chant his signature chant.
“His Name is Brendan!”
“His Name is Brendan!”
“His Name is Brendan!”
“His Name is Brendan!”
“His Name is Brendan!”
Fujiko does nothing but exchange her surprised look for a smirk as the chant begins to die down. She shrugs in a “what can you do” manner as the chant becomes cheers.
Fujiko Mine: I was surprised you’d do that after Avery Quinn’s announcement last week. You know the one I’m talking about.
Fujiko reaches into her pocket and pulls out a smartphone. She taps on it a few times, scrolls with her thumb, and then smiles.
Fujiko Mine: The one where he showed his bias towards you.
A smattering of boos from Brendan’s fans.
Fujiko Mine: And don’t get me wrong. I see the tiny wheels in your head turning. I’m still good for this match. I’ve already signed. I’m not making excuses. But…
She turns her torso, so it’s clear she’s addressing the crowd.
Fujiko Mine: Don’t you think it’s odd that after the last few weeks, Avery sees fit to make sure that Brendan has nothing to lose in this match?
There is a murmur amongst the crowd.
Fujiko Mine: When Avery made that announcement, I won’t lie: I was annoyed. I wondered what the point of this match was. Brendan really has nothing to lose here. It’s all or nothing for me. Think about it. It’s plain as day. If I lose, I go back into the shuffle. I have to hope that I’m entered into a tournament for what is essentially a slap in the face. I don’t get a cushion. I don’t get an opportunity to make excuses like “The wrestling” does.
She smirks, turning back to Brendan.
Fujiko Mine: But then it dawned on me. WHEN I beat you, you’ll come out here...if you decide to show your face; And claim that you “still” have the best title in Spirit and Pride. Avery will be able to cover for you. “Well, you’re not the North American champion, but you still have the oldest title in SAP!” WHEN I beat you, you lose nothing but the new shiny. You still get to parade around with that belt. You can even come out here and call yourself the wrestling still. It honestly doesn’t bother me.
She shrugs.
Fujiko Mine: Your drunken little rant on twitter didn’t bother me either. Neither does this announcement anymore. Nor does this contract signing. Because it doesn’t change the fact that I’m going to do what I said I was going to do from the start. BEAT YOU. I don’t need a safety net. I don’t need this match made so that I have almost nothing to lose. I’m fine with these odds, no matter how people may think I’m in over my head. I have known from the day that I stepped out in front of the SAP crowd that I was coming to face you, and I knew that I was going to be the one to beat you. So you can be the wrestling. You can be the protected boy. You can be the one who has to have Avery make sure that you aren’t upset when you lose. He wants to coddle you, and not offend you. That’s fine. You can be all that. I am going to be exactly what I wrote.
Fujiko points to the contract, and the camera swoops in on her name. Rather than having written her name, she wrote three words.
“North American champion.”
Brendan looked at what she wrote, that smile still not leaving his features. The handsome sailor continued his stare, arching an eyebrow as he did so, before flicking back his silky, black curls. He drummed on the table with his fingers, playing a merry little tone but not saying a single word. An age seemed to pass as he continued gazing upon her. He then abruptly stood, pacing around the table as he circled her like a shark in the waters, smelling blood. He slowly and methodically strolled around her, his hands behind his back as he whistled gently, two icebergs never looking away. His gaze broke as he looked upon the contract once more, grinning even wider than normal. He then placed his index finger upon the contract, getting right into his opponent’s face.
Brendan Samuels: That ain’t ye, lass.
He grinned again as he paced back around the table to his own side, gazing now to the rafters, that smile never leaving.
Brendan Samuels: Yer can’t sign as something yer not. It’s quite simple, and while ye be complaining about the management here, and their decisions, yer may well have to complain again when they force ye to resign that contract.
Brendan seats himself once more, getting himself comfortable in his seat.
Brendan Samuels: And ye may say yer not bothered. Ye may say ye dinnae care about the announcement, ye may say yer dinnae give a shite about this contract signing, ye may say out loud an’ proud that yer not bothered by the response on Twitter. But ye sure did go off on one about it just then, ye sure wanted to big up this meeting of two contenders, and ye sure did attempt to fire back on me once I typed out what was on me mind over social media. And yer damn will dinnae like it when ye got put in yer place.
Samuels grins wider, placing his National Championship upon the table.
Brendan Samuels: Funny way of showin’ it. But, of course, yer have beaten bigger, badder ‘monsters’ than I, ain’t ye? Yer have faced worse odds and won, ye faced better wrestlers and won. Ye did say that, remember? So… if that be the case, why are ye here? Why is this ‘all or nothing’ for ye? Yer beaten better, this should be cakewalk. If yer have beaten better than the man who has been and is the very best that this company has to offer, why are ye here?
Samuels drums on the table once more.
Brendan Samuels: It’s a very simple question, don’t ye think? That simple statement of yours discredits each and every person in that locker room. It discredits all the people that fought long and hard to push this company to the level it has reached, it discredits all those who are still fighting, still growing, still trying to bring Spirit and Pride to the highest possible level… And ye? Yer take the pride we have in what we have accomplished, and instead turn it to more represent the image of one of the Seven Deadly sins. It was Pride that changed angels into devils; it is humility that makes men as angels. Yer take the pride too far, lass.
Samuels stands now, icy daggers cutting right through her.
Brendan Samuels: Yer made it vanity.
He sits back now, smiling once more.
Fujiko’s lips curl like the chesire cat.
Fujiko Mine: Brendan never lets some hypocrisy get in the way of his arguments, does he?
She crosses her legs.
Fujiko Mine: Am not yet the North American champion? Correct. I am not yet the champion. But you are not the wrestling. That's not your legal name. I knew you'd try and be cute, so I decided to one up you. I'll resign that contact without a care in the world, knowing that in a few short weeks I am going to add that title to my list of accomplishments. But let's address that other comment you made.
She leans back a little bit on the turnbuckle.
Fujiko Mine: you think that me saying they I've faced bigger monsters then you is disrespectful to them? I earned my way into this spot. If they've got an issue with me earning this match, let them come out and say so. Find me in the back. I'm here every week. I've got no qualms proving that I belong here.
She narrows her eyes at her opponent.
Fujiko Mine: If you wanna talk about pride, you would think yours would have been hurt to know that Avery doesn't trust you enough to give you anything to lose. In your shoes, I would've told him in no uncertain terms, that if I lost, I'd vacate that National title. Because like I said, I don't need a cushion. Not do I need a handout.
Fujiko raises her eyebrows.
Fujiko Mine: But for you, we know it's not about the wrestling. It's not about spirit, or about pride. It's about you. You don't care about being the “wrestling”. You just care about yourself.
Her smile vanishes.
Fujiko Mine: So if you wanna really talk about pride, give yourself something to lose. Drop the National title, win or lose. Show me you aren't scared.
Look me in the eyes and show me you're a man.
She throws her hands up.
Fujiko Mine: Or, just keep trying to appear witty. You're not great at it, honestly. I've grown bored of this. So tell these fans what you think they want to hear. That you'll be the conquering hero once again. That you'll be…
Brendan cuts her off there and then, and in a sudden movement is right in front of her, looking down. He has gripped her right hand in his left, his eyes looking like tiny frozen demons as he squints at her. The crowd are anticipating a fight to break about between them, and they are all on their feet waiting to see what will happen. Brendan, the iceman, doesn’t say a word, but then the mysterious sailor lifts her hand to his face, kissing her knuckles lightly.
Brendan Samuels: Too much talk, lassie, way too much. An’ if yer feel like ye wanna make decisions like that, why don’t ye go an’ open yer own company. But as yer said, yer dinnae have a care in the world, do yer? Bit bored, ain’t ye?
Brendan smiles as he lets go of her hand letting it drop to her side.
Brendan Samuels: Keep talkin’, Cailín. Keep tweeting, keep poking, keep accusing. It’s what yer do. An outsider, made elsewhere walking in and acting like yer gonna own the place. Me? I was made here. Spirit and Pride molded me into the National Champion. It molded me into “The Wrestling.” Here, nowhere else. So if yer wanna throw out yer falsities, yer lies, yer bullshite out? Feel free. I know the truth, these people know the truth, everyone in the back knows the truth. And I know who I am.
Brendan takes a step back, opening his arms out wide in a crucifix position,
Brendan Samuels: I am The Wrestling.
He grins again as he lowers his shades down.
Brendan Samuels: And yer dinnae tell me what to do. This be my ship, I am the Captain, and ye be just a stowaway trying to throw a mutiny that nobody will ever get behind..
She snaps her fingers, moving her hand in a zipping motion.
Fujiko Mine: Excuse you, you creep. I wasn't finished.
She sneers at him.
Fujiko Mine: First of all, I didn't ask for your lips touching me. You were NOT given permission. You may think you're some suave pirate, you think you’re Johnny Depp in a wrestling ring, but you're just some arrogant discount pirate creep overstepping boundaries. You act like you were “molded” here, yet you’re also out in HKW. But I guess because it fits your narrative, I’m in the wrong, eh? You are so desperate to be right. You need it. You crave it. So it's going to be so sweet when you have to come out here, WITHOUT the North American title, and admit you were wrong. So quaint how you dodged my points, because you don't have an answer for them, and you are too scared to wager up. I didn't force you to make a decision. I just challenged you, and you balked, like I thought you would. You aren't a captain.
You're just a generic coward. So continue to spit your macho crap. I ain't got time for it.
She tosses the microphone and exits the ring, wiping the back of her hand on the ring apron in disgust. “Champion” plays, and she shakes her head as she heads to the back, leaving the National champion in the ring. Brendan made a cut motion as Fujiko’s music suddenly stopped, lifting his shades up as he saw her exit through the curtain. His grin was wider than ever as he propped his title upon his shoulder, turning to the contract and nodding his head. He then looked back to the curtain, the camera zooming in to see him wink in the direction of the curtain, cool and calculated as he mouthed the words “No… now you’re finished.” Brendan then turned to the crowd, his own fans letting out a cheer as he followed Fujiko out the same way, up the ramp and through the curtain. The camera then focused on the contract laying in the centre of the ring before fading away.
______________________________________________________________________________
Final Cavalcade Spot Battle Royal
Aurora vs. Jessica Sears vs. Bryan Williams vs. Charlie Reed vs. Xavier Laroux vs. Masaru Inoue vs. Persephone Marquis vs. Lilah Reed vs. Terrence Tillman vs. Jaser Cruz vs. Gabriel Laroux vs. Desiree Jenkins vs. Ximena Asensio vs. Kowloon Zombie vs. Tyson Braddock vs. Claire Rogers vs. Iris Hawthorne vs. Joey Ortega vs. Siberia Zombie vs. Allen Chaney vs. Oliver Overton vs. Alexander North vs. Cartier vs. Stone Hemingway vs. Cailey Carter vs. Mixcoatl (HELL) vs. Neal Durden (NKP) vs. Bo Adkins (CCP) vs. Richard Roque (PW) vs. Sean Davenport (SSWA)
The bell rang after all thirty participants had entered the ring. Immediately everyone began brawling within the tight quarters trying to make room by eliminating someone. Teams began to band together in an attempt to throw out those who didn’t have any alliances in the match. They also looked to try and throw people out together. This became apparent when the Outkasts got Joey Ortega alone and managed to throw him over the top.
Eliminated: Joey Ortega
Stone Hemingway saw this and quickly made his way over to the two and tossed out Iris Hawthorne. Overton tried to fight off the big man but Hemingway wasn’t in the mood as he lifted Overton up by his throat and tossed him to the outside.
Eliminated: Iris Hawthorne & Oliver Overton
Things were starting to heat up in the match but then the crowd let out a big pop. Vince Steel hadn’t forgotten what had happened to him earlier in his match with Manny and was coming out to finally get a hold of any Laroux he could. Triple T saw him coming and moved towards the side of the ring his cousin was heading. Officials told Steel to go back but he wasn’t listening. Vince climbed up and entered the ring. Xavier decided to strike first and went right after the former National champion. Laroux hit heavy and fast and looked to be doing some damage at first. Then Vince gritted his teeth and started eating shots before clubbing away at Xavier. Everyone around the two gave them room, except for Gabriel who tried to help his brother but got attacked by Triple T. Vince grabbed Xavier by the head and tossed him out to the floor.
Eliminated: Xavier Laroux
Vince then walked over to the ropes and started to climb between them when Gabriel broke away and got a running start to catch Vince with a boot to the face that sent him crashing out to the floor. Triple T ran right after him and toppled him over the top rope sending Gabriel to the floor.
Eliminated: Gabriel Laroux
Gabriel didn’t seem to mind as Xavier was already up and stomping a mud hole into Vince. Terry seemed torn as he didn’t know whether he should exit the ring to help his cousin or stay in the match. Gabriel joined the assault and Tillman looked even more concerned. In the end Tillman’s choice was made for him as Aurora tossed him over the top rope to the floor.
Eliminated: Terrence Tillman
Security was sent out to pull the two teams apart while the match continued inside of the ring. The alliances continued as people hoped to work together until the moment it became everyone for themselves. Things between BGTL and Zombie Vice Squad were already heated before tonight but things really blew up tonight. Ximena and Claire tied Kowloon up in the ropes and proceeded to focus attention on Siberia and tossed her out. Kowloon got free and grabbed hold of Claire and threw her up and over. Ximena was right behind Kowloon though and used his momentum against him to toss him out.
Eliminated: Siberia Zombie, Claire Rogers, Kowloon Zombie
Persephone then turned things on. She saw Ximena was still reeling and quickly tossed her out. She then moved on and went hard on Desiree who Bryan already had cornered and tossed her out. Cailey Carter then tried her hand at slowing down Marquis and paid the price for it as it wasn’t long after that she got tossed out. During her time with Cailey, Bryan was getting worked over by Bo Adkins and Marquis attacked him from behind and tossed him out.
Eliminated: Ximena Asensio, Desiree Jenkins, Cailey Carter, Bo Adkins
Persephone was hotter than hitting three 3-pointers in a row in NBA Jam. She took a moment to stop and play to the crowd which proved to be the wrong thing to do. Tyson Braddock and Alexander North of Holocene ran up behind her and threw her over the top rope. Marquis hit the floor and was instantly pissed out. Tyson and Alex began to mouth off to her telling her that neither her or her man were that good in the first place. Bryan caught wind of this and hit them both with a double clothesline to the back of their heads that sent them spilling over the top. Security was already hanging around ringside after The Fam and Laroux’s incident so they stepped in between Holocene and Persephone before anything could happen.
Eliminated: Persephone Marquis, Tyson Braddock, Alexander North
Teams were still sticking together the best they could. Jess and Jaser seemed to have their differences put aside and were working together against Allen Chaney. The two of them propped him up on the ropes in the corner and Jess made the final push dumping him to the outside. Jess then lifted up her arms to Jaser for a double high five which he enthusiastically complied with. Then as Jess turned to go after someone else Jaser grabbed her by the hair and her gear and threw her up and over the top rope. As Jess got to her feet she was stunned and looked up at Jaser and asked what was he doing? Cruz just shrugged his shoulders and went back to the match.
Eliminated: Allen Chaney, Jessica Sears
The Reeds and Hell is Waiting were the only teams left and they were banding together as the remaining brawled around the ring now that it had much more room. Richard Roque caught Cartier in the corner with a hard elbow and she dropped to the floor and powdered to the outside. Bryan Williams then caught Roque from behind and connected with a few hard blows before sending him to the floor.
Eliminated: Richard Roque
Durden, Davenport, and Cruz all banded together to go after Hell is Waiting. Durden and Davenport got Aurora in a corner where she tried to fend them off. Jaser found his way to the middle of the ring with Masaru which wasn’t the best choice. The two squared off and Masaru used his superior striking skills to get one up on Jaser. Masaru went for a big roundhouse kick but Jaser avoided it. Cruz then swung with a haymaker but Inoue avoided that and then hit him with “Kill shot”. Before Cruz could even hit the ground Masaru had a hold of him and threw him over the top.
Eliminated: Jaser Cruz
Maz then went over and helped out Aurora by attacking Durden and Davenport. Sean then squared off with Maz and the two went back and forth for a bit. Aurora tried to dump Durden over the top rope but he landed on the apron and caught her with a forearm right on the jaw which caused her to back up enough for him to jump back inside the ring. Davenport looked like he had Masaru right where he wanted him but then Maz connected with a “Kill Shot” out of nowhere that sent him over the top to the outside.
Eliminated: Sean Davenport
Durden found his way right into Bryan Williams and the two were fighting tooth and nail near the corner of the ring. Durden was giving it all he had to try and weaken Williams. Bryan grabbed Durden by the trunks and fell backwards into the mat causing Neal to go face first into the middle turnbuckle. Durden bounced back up dazed and Williams used that as an opening and tossed him over the top rope to the floor. Aurora was watching both of them however and snuck up right after Williams sent Durden to the floor and flipped him up and over.
Eliminated: Neal Durden, Bryan Williams
Masaru now found himself being attacked by The Reeds. He managed to fight off Charlie but Lilah wasn’t taking no for an answer and caught Masaru with a low blow. Inoue cringed at the blow and Lilah used it to her advantage to toss him over the top rope. Aurora caught this as she was turning back after eliminating Bryan. Rori darted across the ring and hit Lilah with a lariat sending her over the top. The lariat lifted Aurora’s legs off of the ground and Charlie wasn’t wasting an opportunity. Before Aurora could get her feet to the mat Charlie already had them lifted back up and she went spilling out to the floor.
Eliminated: Masaru Inoue, Lilah Reed, Aurora
Charlie wasn’t given any time to rest as Mixcoatl was right there on top of him. Mixcoatl had spent plenty of the match ducking and weaving between opponents staying incredibly fresh. Charlie on the other hand had spent plenty of the match working with Lilah to beat on people and was feeling worse for the wear. The two men went back and forth having the entirety of the ring to themselves. Charlie took the lead for a moment before Mixcoatl used his predator like offense to slow him down. Finally Mixcoatl landed “Cuerno de Chivo” (springboard corkscrew headbutt to standing opponent) and Charlie went over the top to the floor. Mixcoatl stood up and celebrated. He had thought he won the battle royal and was headed to Cavalcade. He leaned on the top rope and that was when Cartier slid back inside. She ran up right behind Mixcoatl and dumped him to the floor. The bell rang and she was declared the winner.
Eliminated: Charlie Reed, Mixcoatl
Cartier began to dance in the ring excited by the fact that she was moving on as the last person to qualify for Cavalcade.
Winner: Cartier
Eventually he reaches the locker room, and yanks the door open...
*SPLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSH!*
Vince Steel: "ARGH-!"
... and when he does, he's drenched from head to toe in a putrid-looking amber fluid, from a falling plastic bottle placed above the door, dropping on the floor.
Vince Steel: "The FUCK!?"
Still seething over his impromptu shower, he notices a little folded note, carefully taped onto the back of the door. Hurriedly, he rips it and unfolds it.
"To the East Side Beast, Vince Steel:
It has come to my attention that you're not the BRIGHTEST star in the sky, mang. Not only did you HAVE to interrupt our match last show, costing you the spot you securely had in the Cavalcade match, you also had the BRILLIANT idea of equating my career to a piss break.
And thus, chico, here's my sample of appreciation.
Hope you enjoy your piss break then, and know that things like THESE is why they call me... DA #TROLL GUY.
By the way - see you later tonight, chico. Hope you're not too PISSED!"
As its only signature, the note bears a Trollface.
"... problem?"
Vince Steel, understandably bristling with fury, notices something odd about the bottle, and proceeds to pick it up. Upon closer examination, it turns out the bottle's contents were not as disgusting as he would think..
"APPLE JUICE"
Vince Steel: "RRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGH!!!"
Further enraged after realizing he's been had, he crushes the bottle in his hands, and slamming the door on his way out, storms out of the room.
______________________________________________________________________________
Joe Stanton is somewhere in the bowels of the arena that looks more fitting for some demonic entity to slither out in a horror movie than necessarily a venue that hosts sporting events, most likely in part because of the scarlet mood lighting going on in the background. The Scarlet Speedster looks pretty focused, already dressed for battle, the IJPW Death Crown Championship & the KAMIKAZE Pro Tag Team League Championship sitting on a crate next to him, Stanton's doing the whole shadow bowing as he awaits the word to make his entrance. It's about the time the camera pans around him to get a proper front face shot that Joe's concentration is broken and he notices somebody's filming him.
"Best of Three Series."
Said with more glee than one probably should and with a gleam in his green eyes.
"If you had told me that's what would come out of my match with Trixie, well, not sure I'd believe it. But here we are, Match Two of Joe Stanton versus Trixie with me in the lead at one point."
The Scarlet Speedster thumbs his nose and he shrugs his shoulders in admission of where we're all at in this Best Of series.
"Now I could sit here and do the usual wrestler thing of talking about how big my number is, I could talk about how chicks dig me and how uber cool I am because of it, you know the shtick. But it wouldn't be really honest to how I feel about this match. It wouldn't be honest to how I feel about Trixie or this Best Of series."
A rather sardonic tone is taken when Stanton playfully teases the rhetoric of some of his contemporaries.
"Don't misunderstood me either, I'm just a soul whose intentions are good, I'm going to go out there and do what I do every single time I step into a ring. That's give everything I have into it being the best match yet of my career and the best match that any fan in attendance or watching at home has seen. I'm not going to hold back, if what I do ends this Best Of Series at two to nothing and Trixie loses, well, that'll be that. But..."
Stanton trails off and he looks off to the side momentarily.
"Ideally? I don't want that. What I want is Trixie to show everybody she's as good as I, and a whole lot of other people, know she is and show she's learned something from our last match together like I did. I want her to be better than last time, I want her to beat me and push us into a final jeopardy climatic third match. Because that'll be interesting, it'll be a challenge! It'll push me to be better and push us both to improve and learn."
There's that gleam in his eye again and his tone becomes passionate, excited even when he explains why he wants Trixie to step up her game for this second encounter, why he wants her to win.
"Because nobody likes reruns."
Nonchalantly added, Stanton scoops up his championships and he exits the scene to bring the segment to a close.
______________________________________________________________________________
Best of 3 Series
Trixie vs. Joe Stanton
The bell rang and the two met in the middle of the ring to shake hands before getting to business. They locked up and Joe took control from there using his size to try and keep her in check and connected with a german suplex. Trixie landed hard causing a reaction from the crowd. Joe didn’t want to lose any steam and pulled Trixie right back up and whipped her into the corner. Stanton went to charge in but was caught off guard when Trixie charged out and caught him with a dropkick sending him to the mat. Stanton quickly tried to get back to his feet but Trixie met him there. She connected with a snapmare followed by a low kick and looked to really looked to be in the driver's seat. Stanton quickly shut that down though as he connected with a spinning back heel kick that caught Trixie and then was followed up with an STO. The two continued to go back and forth until Trixie managed to catch Stanton with a fastball punch that dropped him to a knee. Trixie hit the ropes and connected with a shining wizard allowing her to pick up the pin and the victory.
Winner: Trixie
______________________________________________________________________________
Within the halls of the Rothman Center in Hackensack, New Jersey, Chelsea Pryce saunters in her ring attire with confidence in her body language. She’s making her way towards ringside for her upcoming match against Cosmo Cooper when suddenly…
? ? ?: “Ms. Pryce!”
Chelsea Pryce: “Sorry, I don’t do interviews on the spot…”
The Stiletto Knife turns around and a gentle smile crosses her face. The camera pans out to reveal the Spirit and Pride X Champion, Jessica Sears, with the gold draped across her right shoulder and a big grin on her face.
Jessica Sears: “I’m sure you have time to talk with an old friend.”
Chelsea Pryce: “Friend? More like a daughter.”
The older woman’s smile widens and she embraces the Paladin like a mother would their child. She even kisses the top of her head.
Chelsea Pryce: “I haven’t seen you in quite some time, sweetie. I’m surprised we haven’t run into each other backstage before.”
Jessica Sears: “Same place, different times, I guess. But hey, I finally found you! How have you been?”
Chelsea raises an eyebrow and chuckles.
Chelsea Pryce: “I’m not sure if this is the time for a long conversation. After all, I’m a few minutes away from making Cosmo Cooper my bitch…”
? ? ?: “I love it when she talks like that.”
Allen Chaney emerges from offscreen with his hands in the pockets of his hoodie. Try as she might Chelsea couldn't get him to dress nicer.
Allen Chaney: “See? That bloodthirsty attitude? That’s exactly why Chelsea is the best tag team partner I’ve ever had since…”
? ? ?: “A THIRD MYSTERY VISITOR APPROACHES!”
Chelsea looks up and raises an eyebrow. Jessica recognizes that voice and her soft blue eyes light up. Allen is slightly shocked when his former tag team partner enters, playing his Nintendo Switch.
Ollie Maverick: “And joining the promo in just a second… collecting the power moon... Aaaand boom goes POW block. I’m paying attention again. Hello friends! Didja miss me?”
Ollie Maverick smiles wide at his former tag partner Allen, Chelsea, and his Friend/Gaming Rival Jessica. Chelsea turns her head slightly, bewildered by the second surprise visit, but before she can say anything, Jessica gently pulls away and moves in to hug Ollie.
Jessica Sears: “You’re a light in the Dark Manor, Ollie! How have you been? What are you doing here? How are Ami, Chris, and Claire?”
So many questions. Chelsea chuckles softly and moves to stand next to Allen.
Ollie Maverick: “Ami and the Twins are amazing! I’ve been feeling better than I ever have in my life and… well, unfortunately, the Missus has limited me to competing in companies that are close to our home in New York. Hmmm… if only there were someplace in kinda the New York area with a buncha kickable faces where a little fella like me can show off his stuff...Hmmmm…”
Allen Chaney: “Is that a contract under your arm?”
Ollie Maverick: “It’s not NOT a contract.”
Chelsea Pryce: “That’s the SAP logo.”
For a 38-year-old woman, Chelsea’s vision is sharp. Jessica blinks and takes a step back after letting go of the hug.
Jessica Sears: “Wait, really? First, you challenge me in gaming, now you’re challenging me in wrestling? Assbutt.”
She sticks her tongue out for fun.
Ollie Maverick: “You’re a good friend, Jess… and I know it’s been a while since I’ve stepped into the ring proper… but whether it’s Flips or Fightsticks I bet I can hang with you. We can keep it light outside of the ring but once we’re both in it and that bell rings? Things will get Downright Heavy. Hashtag Hadoken.”
Ollie gets in her face a little bit, but it’s still friendly. A confident smirk crosses Jessica’s face. She doesn’t stand down from the challenge.
Jessica Sears: “Lest you forget… I’m a two-time Dance Dance Revolution Champion…”
She moves her hands to adjust the championship belt on her right shoulder.
Jessica Sears: “...and the current SAP X Champion. You better power grind and level up if you’re gonna step into my battle stage, Little Mav.”
Ollie Maverick: “Little Mav? Oh, this is more of a Kick-Off than a Punch-Out but I’ll be sure…”
Allen Chaney: “I think they’re just gonna stand here and make dork references at each other so it’s probably safe to leave.”
Allen says this to Chelsea as Jess and Ollie stare down and exchange nerdy verbal blows. Chelsea shakes her head with a chuckle.
Chelsea Pryce: “Oh, Spirit and Pride just became a lot more entertaining. Now… why don’t I show the world the beatdown I told Cosmo he couldn’t hide from?”
And just like that, her icy demeanor surfaces. The Ice Queen coldly smirks and takes the Comedian’s hand in hers. She raises it up and playfully twirls.
Chelsea Pryce: “No fairy magic can save him.”
Ollie Maverick: “...moves so slick you’d think I was using a Game Genie...”
Jessica Sears: “...you can’t overcome the Konami Code…”
Allen ignores Ollie and Jess.
Allen Chaney: “Fairly Oddparents reference? Really?”
Allen raises an eyebrow at Chelsea. She gives him a look and raises an eyebrow of her own.
Chelsea Pryce: “His name is Cosmo… and he used a Cosmo gif on Twitter the other day… did you miss that? I thought it was a dead giveaway since Rosalyn and Cole love that cartoon.”
Allen Chaney: “Great, now the theme is stuck in my head… That’s gonna take forever to forget.”
Ollie Maverick: “...like a Power Glove, my kicks are so BAD… but like a good bad. Like, 90’s bad…”
Jessica Sears: “...I was born in 1996. I don’t count as a 90’s kid, Ollie.”
Chelsea overhears the comparisons and rolls her eyes.
Chelsea Pryce: “Way to make me feel old. Damn kids.”
She smirks and begins to make her way towards ringside, though she doesn’t let go of Allen’s hand along the way.
Chelsea Pryce: “Doom and Gloom up in his room is broken instantly…”
Allen Chaney: “By his magic little fish that grant his….OH GOD DAMN IT!”
Wholeheartedly, Chelsea laughs as the Killing Joke walk alongside each other in song. The scene fades to black on Ollie and Jess still going back and forth with their nerdisms.
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Rachel Redding vs. Luca Di Paolo
This old rivalry was heated up tonight as the two made it clear early that neither cared for the other much. Luca locked up with Rachel thinking that he would be able to outmaneuver her. It didn’t turn his way as she quickly popped out of a headlock and whipped him into the ropes. Redding sent Di Paolo to the mat with a back body drop and then went straight to her signature stomps as she worked over the body of the golden eagle. Redding finished up with landing a double stomp right on to the gut of Luca. Redding called for him to get up. Di Paolo got to his knees and started to beg off Redding. Rachel just shook her head and then caught Luca with a snap ddt that looked to leave him out of it. Rachel headed for the corner and waited for Luca to stir. As he made it to his feet she shot out from the corner and connected with “Category 1” (V trigger). Rachel covered Luca and got the three count.
Winner: Rachel Redding
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Nora Harris: Respect. That’s a word that gets thrown around a lot in our business… though when did it become just a business? It’s a sport, it’s passion, it’s so much more than just the numbers that can get put up after a successful show. There’s nothing wrong with money, getting paid what you’re worth, that’s a good feeling isn’t it? But we weren’t talking about that. We’re talking about respect.
The camera is focusing on the back of Nora as she finishes lacing up her boots, she stomps, then jumps up and down in them to make sure they’re just right before she looks up and gives the brightest smile to the camera. A deep breath as she looks around the locker, she pauses to gather her thoughts as she heads out, a slightly more serious set to her features as she speaks though that smile peeks through now and then anyway as she nearly bounces with each step.
Nora Harris: I’ve been thinking a lot about it. Everyone wants it, even those… maybe especially those, that say they don’t. Even if it’s just someone putting some respect on their name. Thing about it, is you have to earn it. It’s freely given or it’s not real. Take the two men that I’m facing here tonight in a Cavalcade Showcase for example. Now I don’t know a whole lot about Stone Hendrix yet, but he seems like a good, sincere guy. I can respect that about him, because wrestling can be a meat grinder for guys like him if they aren’t careful.
She pauses slightly, flicking one of her long dark curls off her shoulder, her expression sweet and light.
Nora Harris: Don’t let it, Stone. ‘Kay? Because it’s worth it, to stay yourself and not change because everyone around you thinks they have to, to get ahead. Then there’s Eli. Oh he’s a… pistol. He’s raw, abrasive, and well, mostly kind of a dick.
Nora giggles a bit but then her mirth fades out and her expression is serious again.
Nora Harris: What I can respect about Elijah Carlson is the fact that in that ring, he’s so technically sound that it’s intimidating, it’s impressive, it’s in truth a bit daunting. If I hadn’t been trained by the man I was trained by, heck I might even be scared of someone that can do what he can do. More because he can over should? But he’s not just some guy that gets salty snacky on Twitter. That’s possibly the real him? But it doesn’t matter if it is or not because that’s just some words on a screen.
She shrugs and bounces as she moves, waving a bit to a few of the techs and workers that greet her as she goes.
Nora Harris: He’s sly, he’s brighter than he’s given credit for because he hides behind this ego construct he throws at everyone. They just see this giant ego and all the yack yack quack quack and forget that he’s good, really stinking good in that ring. That he’s not just a mouthy dude with some snarky hot takes on Twitter. He’s an honest to God wrestler and if you think he’s all talk with no walk he will stomp the life out of you and you’ll have had it coming.
A laugh and she shakes her head, her curls swaying from side to side over her pinky purple spangly gear.
Nora Harris: I can hear him in my head “I don’t need your boring uplifting compliments you little midget!” But it’s just the truth. I don’t see the smoke and mirrors, Eli. I see the wrestler… and that’s what makes me different than the people who usually come up at you that try to smash your head in with a shovel and pour concrete in the hole after you.
A light shrug as she moves along, another bright smile as she stops at the hall she has to turn down to get to the ringside area.
Nora Harris: That’s why I’m not going to be like you expect, Eli. Stone I think, gets it. You will. But most of all? I want to be, what Brendan Samuels sees in me. I’ve thought about what he said so much, so often… and it’s made this big difference, this big impact in me that I can’t ignore it. I have a goal now that’s beyond just wins, beyond the championships I know I’ll hold in the future. But to get there I have to make that journey and tonight? It’s some of the biggest steps I’ve had to take yet, and I’m not going to hold back or hesitate. You both deserve that respect too, no matter what you feel right now, or after.
She winks and then takes that turn, the camera cutting away elsewhere.
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Voice: One step closer. We’re just one step closer to Cavalcade...one step closer to glory for “The New Standard” once again.
The scene fades in on the grinning face of former SAP X Champion and 2017 Cavalcade winner Nick Redfield. Sitting on some set boxes backstage with his foot propped up against the wall, he jumps up to his feet once his blue eyes lock with the camera. He is already sporting his ring gear with a big match upcoming later in the evening.
Nick Redfield: I’m not arrogant. Anyone who knows me, anyone who has followed me over the course of the last year and a half can vouch for that. But I’m an honest man, and I like to call things like I see them. Now there’s a lot of doubts I have in life. I call b.s. on Bigfoot. There’s no possible way Loch Ness could be real. My uncle swears aliens rigged the 2004 ALCS. And you and I both know Robert Kardashian isn’t Khloe’s father.
He side-eyes the camera with his lips perked.
Nick Redfield: As we draw closer to Cavalcade though, there is one thing I have no doubt in my mind about it: I will win Cavalcade again this year! For me, 2017 was one heck of a year. This year, we’re just going to keep on building on what we accomplished, and that all starts with me winning Cavalcade. Every competitor on the SAP roster has the goal of being the top dog here, winning the Cavalcade match moves me one step closer to making that a reality.
He takes a deep breath as he lets that reality sink in.
Nick Redfield: But I can’t get ahead of myself just yet. I like to take life one day at a time, and before we can look forward to Cavalcade, we can focus on the task currently at hand. A one-on-one matchup with fellow Cavalcade competitor Andre Holmes.
Nick snickers and a sly smirk creeps across his face.
Nick Redfield: A former X Champion in his own right, this is hardly the first time Andre and myself will share the ring at the same time. This will, however, be the first time we’ve squared off in a straight-up singles match, one on one. Just a month ago, I left the Talmadge L. Field House with a victory over Andre and Rachel Redding. But this time is different...this time means more. With Cavalcade drawing near and momentum at its paramount importance, a win tonight is huge.
He pauses for a moment as he muddles through the thoughts running through his mind.
Nick Redfield: Andre, I know you’re just as hungry as I am. You’ve been putting the work in. You’ve been busting your backside doing everything you can to position yourself for a chance to walk out of a Cavalcade a winner. But I’m here to tell you that, despite how much I like you, despite how great I believe you can be...there’s a brick wall in your path and he goes by the name of Nick Redfield. Tonight, and at Cavalcade, there is nothing you can do to stop the inevitable, Andre. I’m a firm believe in destiny. I’m also a firm believer in the reality that our actions impact our destiny, and I will do everything I must to ensure I walk out of this match tonight victorious. I’ll do everything I must to ensure you’re hobbling into Cavalcade. Because not you nor anyone else is going to keep me from achieving all I’ve set out to achieve here in SAP this year, and I’m sorry but I don’t feel even a little bit bad about what that means for you or anyone else who has to suffer defeat along the way.
Once more he pauses, realizing the disconcerting nature of his words. Nick, a man generally among the most humble in the business today, can’t help but get swept up in the unparalleled competitiveness of SAP Wrestling.
Nick Redfield: 2018 is going to be the year of Nick Redfield. There are no ifs, no ands, no buts about it. Destiny is undeniable. Andre, tonight, you have the misfortune of having drawn a contest with the hungriest athlete on the roster. Are you up to the task? Can you survive the challenge? Because, Andre, I’m on the road to greatness here in SAP and nothing will halt my progress. I will not fail; I will not surrender. I must win.
Without another word, the confident competitor steps out of the picture and we fade to black.
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Cosmo Cooper vs. Chelsea Pryce
Chelsea seemed quite pleased honestly to be in the ring with Cosmo, she waved a finger at him then and loudly proclaimed that he really can’t hide from her now, despite what he said on Twitter. The fans crack up at Cosmo’s expression after this, and the referee waved for the bell. Chelsea went on the fast attack by going for a Lariat Takedown but Cosmo took the hit and then flipped around backward and rolled right to his feet, avoiding her usual transition into a submission! He grinned and ripped her up off the mat for a Stalling Suplex, and then as she tried to rise he caught her with an Oklahoma Roll and got a very near three! Pryce made a little distance with an elbow to the jaw of Cooper and quickly scrambled to her feet, looking for her Roundhouse Kick The K.O. Shot - Cosmo caught her and countered with a Dragon Screw Leg Whip! He got a huge pop after he completed it and held on to Chelsea, lifting both of them up and hitting the move again! He laughed after she kicked out of the pin following, and rolled backwards up to his feet, fading back before rushing in as she stood. He was going for the Crater Maker, grappling up with Chelsea as she got to her feet but as he flipped her for the Tombstone Piledriver and bent his knees for the lift, she fought with everything she had and wiggled her way out of his grasp and tumbled to the mat in a heap for a second while Cosmo kipped up and the fans cheered.
As she surged up to her feet he caught her with a Bicycle Knee that had her reeling, and he slid around behind her to yank her off her feet for a Deadlift German Suplex! He got a two on the cover and when they rose up he spun her around into a hard Irish Whip to the ropes! Cooper set up for a Backbody Drop but Pryce slid in for her version of a Hangman’s Neckbreaker, the Joker’s Reversal! She attempted a pin but Cooper powered out and rolled toward the ropes, Chelsea popped up and waited but as he came up and she rushed him he sidestepped, grabbed her and lifted her up for a huge O’Connor Roll German Suplex Toss right into the top turnbuckle! She staggered and came out of the corner, dropped to her knees and clutched her shoulder! Cosmo advanced in close but she held up a hand, begging off and when he turned his head to look to the referee she low blowed him fast and caught him in an Inside Cradle! The referee was out of position to see her shenanigans and he counted the pin, Cooper breaking free a second too late and rightfully just a bit less than mellow over the situation at hand. Chelsea came up and had the referee raise her hand, proclaiming her innocence over Cosmo’s assertions and he put his hands up in a clear are you serious gesture as the referee told him again that he didn’t see the offense.
Winner: Chelsea Pryce
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RECORDED EARLIER IN THE DAY:
💎Cartier💎: CC I swear to god bitch you is drivin' me mothafuckin' crazy wit dis shit!
Cartier is standing outside a bathroom door in a pair of Space Jam pajamas and fuzzy slippers. She has a night cap over her hair and it's apparent she hasn't been out of bed long.
💎Cartier💎: You been in this damn bafroom for a whole hour... bitch what is you doin'? Yo ass know I gots to get ready and go to New Jersey today! I got big shit goin' on!
Cartier hammers her fists on the door rapidly, making her bubble butt jiggle from the impact.
"Hold onnnnnnnnnnnnnn! DAMN!"
The voice from inside the bathroom comes through the door, and keeps murmuring after.
💎Cartier💎: BITCH! Is you just sittin' in there talkin' on yo damn phone? To who? That bitch nigga Tito from the damn bodega? I'm fittin' to buss this door down an fuck you up for real, girl.
Cartier storms off and there's a lot of noise from somewhere unseen. A few moments later she returns with an arm full of various objects. She has a can of beans, a coat rack, and a big picture of a black last supper. She starts ramming the coat rack into the bathroom door, shaking it in its moorings.
💎Cartier💎: I'm gonna kill you girl! I need to get in there right fuckin' now! I got to get my hair did, get my shit straight, and make sure I be lookin' fly for the SAP show! And I gotta piss! You know I drink a bunch of water before shows! Come ON, bitch!
The head of the coat rack snaps off after denting the door inward a little. Cartier tosses it on the floor.
"Girl are you crazy out there? Do I need to call thee fuckin' PO-lice?"
💎Cartier💎: NO BITCH you need to call a fuckin' ambalamps cuz I'm gonna hurt you for real!
Cartier then grabs the can of beans in her hand and starts slamming it into the doorknob, trying to break it off. This doesn't work either, and soon enough Cartier grabs the large wall painting and looks to slam it into the door as well but just then the door swings open and CC storms out cussing up a storm.
"BITCH WHAT THEE FUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU?!? You know my mama gave me that picture now put that shit back up on the wall you crazy ass ho!"
💎Cartier💎: I got yo bitch right here bitch! I been waitin' to get in this damn bafroom all mornin' you trfilin' ass bitch! I should pull them cheap ass hairs out yo head and flush 'm down the damn toilet that you been sittin' on chattin' wit' Tito! I got a battle royal! There's tough bitches in that shit, and Desiree Jenkins too! You know that ho gon' be mad after I whupped her ass last time. And that fuckboy Jaser and his coon ass gonna bee there too, and I owe that nigga somethin' for makin' us lose on the last show! This a big deal CC I ain't got time for you to be all petty and stupid, for real!
Cartier takes a deep breath and drops the painting on the floor. CC fumes and grabs it, storming off.
"You lucky I don't have time to beat yo' ass bitch."
💎Cartier💎: Bitch I wish you would try...
Cartier then goes into the bathroom and slams the door shut.
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Nick Redfield vs. Andre Holmes
It was very clear from the start that both of these young wrestlers wanted what Andre had stated on Twitter - for this to be the match of the night! There was no usual sort of ‘feeling out’ at the start of the match, the two locked up immediately as the bell rang and Nick broke out of the Collar-and-Elbow Tie Up to slide around and slap on a classic Sleeper Hold! Andre fought out of the hold with a brief chuckle then he went for a kick to the midsection on Nick. It connected and bent Nick over but when Andre grabbed him to try a Fallaway Slam, Nick's elbow connected hard with his chin. Andre went down to one knee with his right arm down on the mat to try and brace himself and then there was Nick and he stepped off Andre's raised knee with one foot, swinging his other leg over and struck Holmes' head with the side of his knee sharply. Andre reeled and went down flat on the mat after the knee to the head, Nick rolled through and came to his feet before he faded off to the ropes. Andre rolled to his feet and looked for Nick before he charged toward him with a Clothesline attempt that Nick ducked and countered off with an Irish Whip! Andre however anticipating a possible Backbody Drop caught himself on the top rope and tapped his temple to indicate that he was 'smart' and then turned back toward the ring only to have Redfield right there and he gaped in surprise as Nick grabbed him and hoisted him up for an Overhead Belly-to-Belly Suplex! BANG! He got a quick two after floating over but Andre easily powered out.
The pair traded off a lot of shots back and forth, and even a bit of very crisp chain wrestling that got the fans excited after they went through, between the two of them it was a Suplex Clinic! Neither man could quite get full control of the match throughout the middle and latter portion however, and there was tension mounting in the crowd as the fans cheered them both on, wondering what it would be that would tip the control one way or the other firmly. It seemed that it would be Andre after he got off a Bad Landing, the Powerbomb into the corner taking some fight out of Redfield, but as Andre got him up and sitting on the top turnbuckle, before he could climb up after him Nick got the upperhand finally as he rocked Andre with some Forearm Smashes before he jumped up and delivered a stunning Inverted Hurricanrana that took both wrestlers down to the mat hard from that high up! They lay groaning on the mat but Nick was up to his feet first and determined to keep his hard fought for control, he pulled Andre up and executed The Sexiest Piledriver You’ve Ever Seen! Nick is quick to float over and hook the leg, gaining the three count and the victory!
Afterward he helped Andre to his feet and shook his hand before raising it up himself to show respect for the skill and talent of his opponent, a nice show of sportsmanship before he left the ring to celebrate his victory with the fans.
Winner: Nick Redfield
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Announcer: Introducing, from Cheatham County, Tennessee...
Four hard chords echo out over the masses, followed by four more. “You ever heard a gripped-up, three-quarter ton doin’ a hundred?” The Jersey crowd bob their heads with the beat as Demun Jones’ “Rah!” thumps the foundations of the Rothman Center. Matthew Gamble bursts through the curtain, amping the cheers from the six thousand strong.
Announcer: ...he is six and a half feet tall and weighs two-hundred sixty-five pounds…
A striking difference in appearance since failing to qualify for Cavalcade, the large, young man normally covered in Mossy Oak camouflage, is wearing Harley¤Davidson Bill STs tucked under the leg of his ‘worn and torn’ Wranglers with a belt and Official white “Ev0lve” T-shirt under an open blue-and-white-pinstripe button-up. Backward on his head, a black “Dogs of War” ball cap; he has a watch on his left wrist and he's carrying a microphone in his right hand.
Announcer: ...this is MATTHEW GAMBLE!
Gamble has cleaned up and, as Gronk-like as he was, he seems to have hulked-up since receiving some words of advice from his last opponent. There is definitely a newfound confidence about him as he pumped the crowd, rapping along through the first verse, using his hands to enhance the words and failing miserably to dance. It didn't affect the crowd though, because all at once, in unison, at the top of their voices, everybody in attendance went…
“RAHHH!”
The crowd added with the chorus as Gamble started toward the ring he slapped hands with fans as he passed. He stops at ringside to shake hands with his mentor and then, he turned a quick one-eighty, grabbed the middle rope and stepped up onto the apron. He wipes his boots before bounding over the top rope into the ring. He holds his arms out wide to each side, asking with his hands for the fans to subside. As the crowd settles, he takes position in the center of the ring and brings the microphone to his beaming smile.
Matthew Gamble: Okay, so some o’ ya ain't gonna like this, but I’ma hafta be real honest wit’ ya’all.
He takes out his cellular and swipes then taps the screen a few times before quickly locks the device, blacking the screen as the production truck pans over his shoulder.
Gamble: See, when I gots on Twitter an’ found Sweetness, I’s lookin’ fer’a bit o’rebound. Knowin’ I’s hittin’a road, I’s lookin’ fer sumptin’ no-strings, ya know?
He holds up his cellular, shaking his head. Dropping the telephone, he brings the microphone back to his smirk. He points to the brunette from Harmony Lake seated in the front row with his mentor.
Gamble: I saw Celeste an’, I'll a’mit it, I gotsa type. I saw the pictures she's postin’ an’ she fit’a bill perfect. I mean, she wearin’a tee that says, “Not Wife Material”. Purdy much screams no-strings, right?
He drops his head, ‘clears his throat’ laughing and then continues, fighting wholehearted laughter.
Gamble: I’s floored findin’ out that she not only gotsa man, but now he wants’a fight me fer doin’ what’ll come natural to any blood pumpin’ man who jus’ might happen on ‘em pictures.
He jumps up on the turnbuckle, addressing the entrance and locker room behind it.
Gamble: So, hows ‘bout aft’r ya gets beat up tonight, at Cavalcade, we settle up Cross. Makes it official, here an’ now. Come on outside, in’a parkin’ lot, circled by beat up cars. I’ll kick yer ass all ‘cause I said Sweetness is sexy, proven time an’a ‘gain that yer an ass an’ be settled.
He drops down off of the turnbuckles, passed the microphone to the referee and starts preparing for the match.
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Our scene comes to life with silence. Two big, hulking bodyguards that have been affectionately named Huey and Duey stand with arms folded on either side of Eli Carlson who sits on a steel folding chair, his head tipped backward slightly, resting against a large crate while his feet are kicked up onto a small chair. Sunglasses adorn his eyes as his chest rises and falls rhythmically. Half a moment later backstage interviewer Yasmeen Sherazi pops onto the scene with a microphone in her hand. Looking to get his attention she reached out to tap him on the leg but one of the two bodyguards, the larger one named Huey, grabbed her by the wrist and shook his head.
Bodyguard Huey: “You not touch Eli.”
Gently she tried to pry her wrist free from Huey’s grasp but it was to no avail. At the same moment, Duey spoke up.
Bodyguard Duey: “You not Genie. Eli sleep. You leave.”
Huey released Yasmeen’s wrist to let her go, a huff coming from her in response which seemed to disturb Eli’s slumber. With a sigh he reached up and removed the sunglasses he had been wearing, a scowl creasing his brow in annoyance. Still, the fact that Eli was awake now caused Yasmeen to plant her feet in the ground, determined to get an interview with the cavalcade contestant.
Yasmeen Sherazi: “Eli… if you don’t mind I’d like to take a few moments just to ask you a few questions.”
Rolling his eyes, Eli dropped his feet down off of the chair and down to the floor.
Elijah Carlson: “Oh but I do mind, Yasmeen. I do mind. See, I’m really not a difficult guy to reach. My phone works just fine. All you’ve got to do is dial that number and give me a call ahead of time and I would be glad to sit down and answer your questions. But instead you want to approach me out of nowhere, I imagine to catch me off guard and put me on the defensive right off the bat and, truth be told, I don’t take kindly to being treated in such a way.”
Clearing his throat for a moment, Eli brings his hand to his mouth to stifle a yawn.
Elijah Carlson: “So tonight you won’t be asking any questions but you can stand there and do your best to look like the four that you are on your best day while the Face of this company talks to the roster. Deal?”
His question was more of a rhetorical one, a fact that was emphasized by Huey and Duey taking a step forward when she opened her mouth to answer. Thinking better of it, Yasmeen closed her mouth a moment later and simply nodded her head.
Elijah Carlson: “Good. Now, to the rest of the Spirit and Pride roster I can’t help but ask each one of you when enough is going to be enough. When is someone going to finally have the courage to stand up and try to put me in my place? Is it really going to have to wait until I walk out of Cavalcade with a championship opportunity against anyone I chose? Is it really going to have to wait until Brendan Samuels and I are booked against each other? And make no mistake about it, Fujiko isn’t going to take that title off of him. She’ll choke in the big moments just like she always does. But is it really going to take until then for someone to speak up? I’m BEGGING someone… ANYONE… to step up. And yet every single week it’s…”
Eli chirps a few times, mimicking a cricket, before laughing to himself.
Elijah Carlson: “I guess a lot changes over the course of two years. That’s all it has taken, you know? Not even a full two years, really. We’re closing in on it but it was nearly two years ago that I stepped foot inside of a professional wrestling ring. Nine months it took me to climb to the top of the greatest wrestling promotion in the world, Four Corners Wrestling, and topple one of the most beloved wrestlers the fans have ever gotten behind in Jair Hopkins. Nine months. In the same amount of time that I’ve been competing in SAP, I had already earned a number one contendership by capturing the contract in the Warzone of Horrors match at Fright Night 2016. Every challenge that has ever come my way I’ve met head on. Any time someone has been foolish enough to run their mouth about me, I’ve met them head on. I have never, not one single time, backed down from a fight in my life.”
Pausing for suspense, Eli held up his index finger as silence filled the scene for a few brief moments before he continued on.
Elijah Carlson: “I had thought, judging by the name of this company, that that was what I would find here when I did Phoenix a favor and became a full fledged member of this roster. I thought I would find other competitors with the spirit and heart of a warrior, ready to fight anyone at any time. I thought I would find others with the same amount of pride in themselves and in the work that they did. I thought I would find people just like me. But instead…”
Another shake of his head, his expression shifting from irritation to disappointment.
Elijah Carlson: “Instead what I’ve found is a roster full of neutered little bitches. I’ve found a roster more concerned with sunshine, daisies and goddamn gummy bears than a desire to become the absolute best this world has to offer. I thought I would find people like me… but instead I found sheep waiting to be slaughtered.”
The disappointment quickly shifted into a smirk as he pushed himself upright, sunglasses dangling from his fingertips.
Elijah Carlson: “If that’s what they want to be then so be it. I’ll be the one to drag the knife across their throats.”
Stepping forward, Eli stopped in front of Yasmeen and stared at her long and hard until finally brushing past her, exiting the scene with Huey and Duey following closely behind.
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Mariano Fernandez vs. Vince Steel
Vince towered over Mariano to start, trying to intimidate Da #TROLL GUY, but Manny refused to be intimidated. He went after Vince, trying to break down his vertical base, but Vince was more angered than hurt. He lifted Manny over his head, but Manny wriggled out and landed behind him, then hit him with a chop-block that put him in control. He continued to chip away at Vince, focusing his offense on Vince’s right leg. However, Vince was able to swat Manny’s attempt at “The Gadfly” away, and hit Manny with a nasty german suplex. He then hit Manny with a big running powerslam for a two count!
Vince looked like he was ready to put Manny away, but Manny refused to back down, hitting Vince with an “Arrow to the knee” (dropkick to the knee) before coming down on him with a pele kick! He then tried to lift Vince for the Dovahkiin Driver, but Vince powered out, got some space, and hit him with a big spear!
Vince then slowly got back to his feet, but suddenly he notices Xavier Laroux in the crowd, taunting him! Vince looks down at Manny, and then at the approaching Xavier, before cursing and leaving the ring. Xavier sees him coming and taunts him more! Vince hops the guardrail and is lead away by Xavier! Manny gets to his feet, and looks frustrated as the referee counts Vince out.
Winner: Mariano Fernandez
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The shows fades in backstage to show Matt Gamble and Celeste standing amongst the technical equipment while ring crew pass by. They are both dressed in their ring gear as their tag match draws near. The camera moves closer as they converse.
Matt Gamble: Again, I'm really sorry to cause you trouble Celeste. T’wasn’t my intention at all. Still...I hope you think about what I said and see how yer boyfriend acted this whole time.
Celeste: Look Matt, I know he may have overreacted just a bit, but having that time alone and really thinking about it, I realize he was trying to protect our relationship. Can you really say you wouldn't do the same in a similar situation?
Celeste gestured with her hands as Matt placed his on his hips and turned his head slightly upward to consider the notion. Finally, he looked down at Celeste and nodded.
Matt Gamble: I guess you ‘ave a point darling. It just feels wrong to be on the other side of the situation.
Celeste: I know. We can't be anything more than friends Matt. And I can't have you calling me names like “sweetness” because that sends the wrong message. If you really do care about me and a friendship, then you can do this.
Gamble nods slowly.
Matt Gamble: I'll try ma’am. I gots to get to Ash’s locker room. Guess we have some strategy to beat you and CJ tonight so you better look out.
Gamble chuckles as he takes a couple steps backwards. Unfortunately, his boots get snagged on some cables running along the ground. He immediately starts to fall backwards. His arms thrash around, searching for purchase. Celeste gasps as she becomes the one thing they find. Gamble crashes to the floor, pulling Celeste down with him. She lets out a little shriek and shuts her eyes to brace for any impact.
When she opens them again, she realizes she is sitting on top of Matt. He gazes up at her in shock. Celeste realizes she is straddling his hips because of how they landed. Her eyes grow wide, but before she can make a move to correct this unfortunate position...the sound of her boyfriend's voice shatters the quiet.
CJ: WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON HERE!
Celeste finally jumps off Gamble immediately after CJ shouts. The camera turns to show how irate he is. Celeste waves her arms and shakes her head in a bit of a panic.
Celeste: No, no, no it's not what it looks like CJ! He tripped and pulled me down and it was all an accident!
Gamble gets to his feet. He says nothing. Only gives CJ a glare, daring him to try anything. When CJ glares back but makes no move, Gamble backs away and then heads down the hall and out of the situation. Celeste is left with the task of damage control.
CJ: And why should I believe that?! He's been all over you since day one and you have hardly done anything about it. You let him talk to you that way he does!
Celeste: Are you kidding me?! That's why he was here CJ! So I could tell him to stop. I was adamant about it too. Spending this past weekend without you made me realize how much I miss you and love you and I don't want anything to come between us again.
CJ: And yet I find you on top of him because he “tripped”...whatever. I'll see you when out match starts.
CJ walks off in the opposite direction Gamble went. Celeste stands there distraught and unsure of what to do. She watches him go as the scene fades out.
______________________________________________________________________________
Cavalcade Showcase
Eli Carlson vs. Nora Harris vs. Stone Hendrix
The three went for a quick feeling out process before the three tried to cement some leverage over the other. Stone caught Eli with a short arm clothesline that sent him to the mat before whipping Harris hard into the corner. Eli got back up and went for a russian leg sweep but Hendrix blocked it. Nora came in for the assist and hit Hendrix in the chest with a dropkick that allowed Eli to take him down with the sweep. As Eli was getting back to his feet Nora flipped over him connecting with a sunset flip. Eli managed to break free at two and the two of them quickly got back to a standing position. Carlson hit Nora with a boot to the gut followed up by a snap suplex. Stone followed suit of Nora and as Eli was getting up this time he caught him with a blockbuster. Nora charged at Stone but he saw her coming and lifted her into the air for a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. Eli had gotten up and Stone whipped him into the ropes. Hendrix went for a hip toss but Carlson blocked it and then drove a knee into the gut of Stone before creating some separation to send him to the mat with a rocker dropper. During the exchange Nora had climbed to the top rope. As Eli got to his feet and turned around Nora jumped and caught Eli with a super version of “Hello patella” (double knee facebreaker). Carlson hit the mat hard and rolled to the floor. As Hendrix was getting up Nora ran right over and quickly put her fingers to her lips in a shush motion to crowd and connected with “Code of Silence” (fall away DDT style move with spinning impact). Harris made the cover, Eli tried to slide in but the ref counted three right before he could make the break.
Winner: Nora Harris
______________________________________________________________________________
“It’s an old joke, but there’s a reason it’s still around.” Allen says, pacing backstage.
“A man walks into a talent agency and says ‘Have I got an act for you!’. The talent agent says ‘Alright, let’s hear what it is.’ And the man says ‘Well there’s this big angry fat fuck and we put him on the stage. We march out a bunch of pretty people and we ring a bell and one by one this big ugly angry motherfucker just starts massacring everybody. People are having their guts torn out and their heads stomped on and everyone that steps in this dudes path just gets torn to shreds. All that is left of the pretty people is just a pile of goo which the big dude rather unceremoniously dumps off of the stage.’ The man says. The talent agent says ‘Well that sounds like a hell of an act….what do you call it?’ and the man says…..’The Aristocrats’.” Allen says with all the flair of a professional Comedian.
“For those of you unfamiliar with that joke, it’s something of a tradition amongst comedians. The point of it is that in the middle you can describe the act in whatever way you see fit and then the punchline then becomes how disappointing the actual punchline is. The middle part always has to be shocking, most people involving a family engaging in many unsavory acts. At one point I told this joke for 27 minutes. I chose to go for a much less scatological and sexual version of this joke but I think I’ve adequately made my point.” Allen says with a shrug.
“A big beautiful brawl. There’s no place I belong more in this world.” Allen Chaney says, he was dressed in his usual backstage attire of fight shorts, his ‘Comedian’ t-shirt, and a hoodie. We typically see him with his tag partner and suspected girlfriend Chelsea Pryce but this time he is on his own.
“I was a bouncer for several years. I’ve been in some massive scrapes you wouldn’t believe. Honestly there’s no place I feel more at home than in a big pile of humanity, throwing elbows and fists at whatever is moving. In case you hadn’t picked up on this…I’m a big fan of violence. There’s nothing funnier to me than the sensation of stepping on the head of another person. Cranial trauma is my favorite ‘gag’ as a Comedian.” Allen says.
“There are a lot of folks in that I’ve never met, well please allow me to introduce myself. If you have the sack to step to me you’re gonna learn why they call me the Comedian. It’s not because I’m a joke, it’s because once that bell rings? The joke is on you.” Allen says. He cracks his neck and walks offscreen.
______________________________________________________________________________
Ashley Maldano & Matthew Gamble vs. Celeste & CJ Cross
As soon as the bell rang there was no deciding who would start for each team as CJ and Matt rand out from their corners and quickly started to brawl. CJ came in throwing wild haymakers but wound up missing a lot of them allowing the much larger Gamble to take control. Gamble hit a few right hands and then threw him into the corner. Gamble started to fire away the referee called for a break, Gamble didn’t comply at first but the referee wedged himself between them to force the break. Gamble took some steps back and then when the ref moved he came charging in, CJ lifted himself up onto the top turnbuckle and stuck his feet out catching Gamble right on the chin. Cross then turned himself and fully climbed to the top and went for a moonsault, however to CJ’s misfortune Gamble caught him and drove him into the mat with a hard powerslam before tagging in Ashley. CJ was starting to get up when Maldano hit the ring. Ashley landed a few strikes before sending him over with a snap mare and then hit him with a hard knee to the back of the head. Cross looked to be hurting and Ashley loved it, looking over to Celeste telling her to look what she’s doing to her man. As Maldano turned to grab CJ he was already on his way to his feet. She threw a right hand but he blocked it and then connected with a belly to belly suplex. Cross made his way to his corner quickly and tagged in Celeste. Celeste came in quickly but Maldano tagged out to Gamble. Matthew sheepishly entered the ring and then turned to Ashley on the apron and tagged her back in. Maldano quickly got aggravated and asked him “what the hell are you doing?”, Gamble explained he didn’t want to hurt Celeste. Gamble exited to the apron. Ashley went to tag him back in but he dropped to the floor. On the other side of the ring CJ had enough and dropped to the floor. He ran around the ring and and dove right at Gamble taking him to the floor. The two began to roll around exchanging blows. Celeste yelled for them to stop but neither one of them was listening. Maldano saw this as her chance and she pulled Celeste away from the ropes catching her by surprise and then caught her with the “AshFall
(Sitout inverted front powerslam). Maldano then hooked the leg and got the three count.
Winners: Ashley Maldano & Matthew Gamble
______________________________________________________________________________
Backstage inside the Rothman Center, the iconic duo that has been setting the industry on fire was backstage, ready to set yet another fire in the ring under SAP Banner again, this time in the much-talked about Battle Royal for the final Cavalcade spot and the duo were included. However their spirit was untouched as their aura still had its effect. Masaru’s eyes gazed straight-forward towards, hard to pinpoint exactly what had his attention but Olly was right there on his left shoulder, perched as the lovely Aurora who had her half of the PW Duos Championship shined up bright, sporting an unruffled demeanor.
MASARU INOUE: Tonight, we usually lay slaughter to whomever feels the need to try their luck against us in tag-team action but no, let’s be put in a large field of competitors and slay them all until we are the last standing....and then we dance the night away!
Masaru’s lightly snickered at that thought of having that vision come true. He looked on his shoulder at Olly before smiling over towards Aurora.
MASARU INOUE: Their teams needed a break from Hell Is Waiting, so why not place the two in a fierce battle for a number one spot in the Cavalcade. Why not let them test their skills against a field who’s just as hungry. Most of these names...they may be big elsewhere and yes, they may be hungry but they are going to starve tonight!
Masaru smile is an alert for the smell of fresh blood. That fresh blood being the twenty-eight others competing for that spot.
AURORA: I was… pleased to see that Richard Roque is back in a ring. I’m sure he’ll take this chance and make the most of it… if it be to scratch that old competitive itch, or show off the results of his RTBF program, either way, he could come out sitting pretty. I can’t say that I’m against people wanting to live out a dream, to better themselves. I mean, honestly there’s no one in this match that I have ill will towards…
Her smile is sweet, if sly to be on those plush lips as she looks over at her trusted one, her gaze following along as Olly looks from side to side on his perch.
MASARU: That is true! I saw the light chatter and even liked and retweeted it but let's be honest, all that muscle, that brawn, it will be just a waste. For the fact he is Phoenix, he’s one of ours, I hope he fares well. Really the freshest body of them all here tonight. A slither of a chance.
AURORA: A slither of a chance! He’s no serpent in our garden, at the least. And we’ve done well, so very outstanding in these battle royals over the course of last year, and this. As I’m sure the fans had a treat from the last one we were in together…
She grins, thinking of how that turned out, and her attention goes to Masaru again.
AURORA: These are interesting times, I always wondered why people look on that as a curse.
Masaru reaches into the side of his Black, Leather Trench Coat, pulling out his phone from the right pocket. He gives it attention for several minutes before hoisting it up.
MASARU: I figure we rarely get these kind of moments but a Selfie that is full-on royalty. You and I... one of us will be heading into Cavalcade at the end of the night! I need to add this to our Selfie collection!
______________________________________________________________________________
Backstage at the show, Lilah Reed stands in front of a full length mirror, she’s turning back and forth as she preens. Pouting and posing for herself in the mirror, when she notices the camera she lets out an exaggerated smile.
Lilah Reed: I know RIGHT!? I just look so fucking good on camera, how has it possibly been so long since my beautiful face graced your screens for a little chitchat?
Lilah pouts again and wrings her hands out under her eyes as though she’s mock crying.
Lilah Reed: I’m sure you’ve all just been big old cry babies in my absence, I mean… look at me! OF COURSE you missed me! But do you wanna know a secret boys and girls?
Lilah steps closer to the camera, she holds her open hand next to her mouth and stage whispers.
Lilah Reed: It’s because recently, this whole thing has SUCKED!
She nods her head emphatically, stepping back with a smirk, she catches sight of her reflection again and starts to pose for herself once more.
Lilah Reed: Every show, Charlie and I? We show up, we kick butt and people make excuses… boo hoo someone distracted me, wahwahwah I wasn’t ready. The same losers rolling around in the ring like they earned the right to challenge for our championships! Honestly? It’s just down right fucking RUDE.
Lilah stamps her foot to add exclamation to the word, she turns to face the camera once more with her arms folded over her chest and shakes her head.
Lilah Reed: We’ve been SO dominant in fact, that the big old meanies who run the place keep shoving us into random singles matches to try and keep us busy! Because the fact of the matter is… nobody they put before us is challenging us, we are your WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS and we’re wrestling singles matches! Come on, that’s just, so. Fucking. RUDE!
She throws her arms up obviously exasperated by the whole thing. A stifled laugh is heard just off camera as we see Charlie Reed sitting there with both World Tag Team Championship belts on his lap.
Charlie Reed: You ain’t lying baby. We are the only tag team of note here in SAP and they are putting us in clusterfuck matches in hopes that our star power will brighten the less thans. I get it, I don’t care as much as my beautiful wife does but I get it. I’d much rather be defending our championships and resetting the record books again and again with our sheer awesomeness. But what ya gonna do? You know I remember when SAP made a call to all tag teams to come here and test themselves against us and see if they can handle what we bring.
Charlie holds up both of the World Tag Team Championship belts and smirks to the camera.
Charlie Reed: Spoiler alert… We are still standing fucking taller than anyone.
Lilah has turned back to the mirror and is pouting to herself, as she realizes the camera is back on her she rolls her eyes and shoos it off.
Lilah Reed: No no NO. I am done talking to the so called “fans” and I am done wasting my star power, when we are recognized as the great, no, the amazing and unbeatable tag team that we are, THEN I will talk.
Charlie smirks again as he rises to his feet.
Charlie Reed: You know what they say… Happy wife, happy life.
He leans towards the camera and whispers.
Charlie Reed: And she’s very good at making me happy.
He then pushes the camera by the lens out of the locker room and closes the door on it.
______________________________________________________________________________
The opening guitar riffs of “Champion” by Fall Out Boy echo throughout the arena, causing the crowd to break out into cheers.
“Champion, champion…”
The lights begin to dim, bringing attention to the sole light, which is right in front of the curtain.
“I’m calling you…
….from the future….
...To let you know we’ve made a mistake…”
….from the future….
...To let you know we’ve made a mistake…”
The curtain parts, and a figure backs into view of the camera, a hood over their head to mask their identity.
“And there’s a fog from the past that’s giving me…
...giving me…
….such a headache…”
...giving me…
….such a headache…”
The music drops out for a second, but when it kicks back in, the figure spins around and tosses the hoodie back to reveal Fujiko Mine. The lights come back up, and Fujiko grins and poses. There is a few short moments, and then it is clear that she is going to the ring alone. Instead of her ring attire, she’s in a pair of yoga pants and her “Popular” white t-shirt.
Announcer: ...from Milwaukee, Wisconsin; please welcome the “Apex Goddess”, FUJIKO MINE!!!
Fujiko bobs her head to the music, until she reaches the apron. She hops up onto it, then she perches on the top rope. She poses on the top rope, throwing her hands out to her sides and soaking in the adulation. Fujiko then comes down off the top rope and walks around the table that has the contract on it. She stares down at the portfolio for a few moments, and then shakes her head. She looks over at the table, which has a microphone on it. Without taking one, she backs into the corner and hoists herself up, sitting on the opposite corner while she waits for the National champion. She taps at her left wrist, signifying that she’s waiting.
“The Heart of the Sea” by Flogging Molly blasts over the PA, as Brendan Samuels paces out from the back, ignoring the crowd as he marches on down the ramp, the National Championship around his waist. He is not carrying his traditional flag, having gifted that to Phoenix a number of months ago. He is clad in a pair of white khaki trousers, smart dress shoes and an open Hawaiian shirt, his bare and ripped torso exposed.
Announcer: Sailing in from Cobh, County Cork, Ireland… He is the Spirit and Pride National Champion… His name is BRENDAN SAMUELS!!!
He rolls into the ring, remaining on one knee as he utters a prayer under his breath before looking skywards. Fujiko motions at him, but The Kraken turns away from her, unhooking his prized championship belt before he raises it to the sky, roaring out to the crowd, asking them what the champion’s name is. “His Name Is Brendan” begins to ring out loud and clear for all to hear, bringing a disgruntled look from the North American Championship contender. Fujiko then motions to the microphones, Brendan pacing over to one with a smug grin upon his face as he gave his next opponent a respectful nod. He takes a seat, pushing up his shades as he stares out with those icy blues of his, starring a cold hole in his opponent as he rests his feet upon the table, motioning for her to speak first like a gentleman.
She takes a moment for the chant to die down before hopping down from the turnbuckle. She paces around for a short bit, then picks up a microphone and turns her back to the National champion.
Fujiko Mine: Hackensack, New Jersey…
The crowd knows what is coming next, and cheers loudly.
Fujiko Mine: Your Goddess is here.
The crowd cheers loudly, with Fujiko smirking as a small section of the crowd begins a “Fujiko” chant. The majority of the crowd catches on, and then the Rothman Center begins rocking.
“FU-JI-KO!”
“FU-JI-KO!”
“FU-JI-KO!”
“FU-JI-KO!”
“FU-JI-KO!”
She raises the microphone to her lips again, with the chant dying out to the point that she can be heard. She takes in a breath, as if she is going to speak.
Fujiko Mine: And I don’t even have to think about this.
She walks over to the table, sets down the microphone, grabs one of the two pens. She clicks it with a flourish, then opens the folder and signs her name while looking directly into Brendan’s face. She sets the pen down, and then moves back to her perch on the turnbuckle and gestures to him. She mouths “Your move” at him, with a slight head nod. Brendan merely smiles, gazing on her with those glacier like eyes of his. He places his feet down, resting his chin over his fists as he looks on with a smile. He never looks away from her, never breaking the stare as his smile grows ever wider. Without looking away, he takes the contract and the pen, getting a loud cheer from the audience as he signs on the dotted line, before sliding it back over to Fujiko. She gazes down on it, a surprised look on her face as the camera zooms in upon it.
Brendan had signed his name as “The Wrestling”.
The surprised look on her face remains as fans of the National champion begin to chant his signature chant.
“His Name is Brendan!”
“His Name is Brendan!”
“His Name is Brendan!”
“His Name is Brendan!”
“His Name is Brendan!”
Fujiko does nothing but exchange her surprised look for a smirk as the chant begins to die down. She shrugs in a “what can you do” manner as the chant becomes cheers.
Fujiko Mine: I was surprised you’d do that after Avery Quinn’s announcement last week. You know the one I’m talking about.
Fujiko reaches into her pocket and pulls out a smartphone. She taps on it a few times, scrolls with her thumb, and then smiles.
Fujiko Mine: The one where he showed his bias towards you.
A smattering of boos from Brendan’s fans.
Fujiko Mine: And don’t get me wrong. I see the tiny wheels in your head turning. I’m still good for this match. I’ve already signed. I’m not making excuses. But…
She turns her torso, so it’s clear she’s addressing the crowd.
Fujiko Mine: Don’t you think it’s odd that after the last few weeks, Avery sees fit to make sure that Brendan has nothing to lose in this match?
There is a murmur amongst the crowd.
Fujiko Mine: When Avery made that announcement, I won’t lie: I was annoyed. I wondered what the point of this match was. Brendan really has nothing to lose here. It’s all or nothing for me. Think about it. It’s plain as day. If I lose, I go back into the shuffle. I have to hope that I’m entered into a tournament for what is essentially a slap in the face. I don’t get a cushion. I don’t get an opportunity to make excuses like “The wrestling” does.
She smirks, turning back to Brendan.
Fujiko Mine: But then it dawned on me. WHEN I beat you, you’ll come out here...if you decide to show your face; And claim that you “still” have the best title in Spirit and Pride. Avery will be able to cover for you. “Well, you’re not the North American champion, but you still have the oldest title in SAP!” WHEN I beat you, you lose nothing but the new shiny. You still get to parade around with that belt. You can even come out here and call yourself the wrestling still. It honestly doesn’t bother me.
She shrugs.
Fujiko Mine: Your drunken little rant on twitter didn’t bother me either. Neither does this announcement anymore. Nor does this contract signing. Because it doesn’t change the fact that I’m going to do what I said I was going to do from the start. BEAT YOU. I don’t need a safety net. I don’t need this match made so that I have almost nothing to lose. I’m fine with these odds, no matter how people may think I’m in over my head. I have known from the day that I stepped out in front of the SAP crowd that I was coming to face you, and I knew that I was going to be the one to beat you. So you can be the wrestling. You can be the protected boy. You can be the one who has to have Avery make sure that you aren’t upset when you lose. He wants to coddle you, and not offend you. That’s fine. You can be all that. I am going to be exactly what I wrote.
Fujiko points to the contract, and the camera swoops in on her name. Rather than having written her name, she wrote three words.
“North American champion.”
Brendan looked at what she wrote, that smile still not leaving his features. The handsome sailor continued his stare, arching an eyebrow as he did so, before flicking back his silky, black curls. He drummed on the table with his fingers, playing a merry little tone but not saying a single word. An age seemed to pass as he continued gazing upon her. He then abruptly stood, pacing around the table as he circled her like a shark in the waters, smelling blood. He slowly and methodically strolled around her, his hands behind his back as he whistled gently, two icebergs never looking away. His gaze broke as he looked upon the contract once more, grinning even wider than normal. He then placed his index finger upon the contract, getting right into his opponent’s face.
Brendan Samuels: That ain’t ye, lass.
He grinned again as he paced back around the table to his own side, gazing now to the rafters, that smile never leaving.
Brendan Samuels: Yer can’t sign as something yer not. It’s quite simple, and while ye be complaining about the management here, and their decisions, yer may well have to complain again when they force ye to resign that contract.
Brendan seats himself once more, getting himself comfortable in his seat.
Brendan Samuels: And ye may say yer not bothered. Ye may say ye dinnae care about the announcement, ye may say yer dinnae give a shite about this contract signing, ye may say out loud an’ proud that yer not bothered by the response on Twitter. But ye sure did go off on one about it just then, ye sure wanted to big up this meeting of two contenders, and ye sure did attempt to fire back on me once I typed out what was on me mind over social media. And yer damn will dinnae like it when ye got put in yer place.
Samuels grins wider, placing his National Championship upon the table.
Brendan Samuels: Funny way of showin’ it. But, of course, yer have beaten bigger, badder ‘monsters’ than I, ain’t ye? Yer have faced worse odds and won, ye faced better wrestlers and won. Ye did say that, remember? So… if that be the case, why are ye here? Why is this ‘all or nothing’ for ye? Yer beaten better, this should be cakewalk. If yer have beaten better than the man who has been and is the very best that this company has to offer, why are ye here?
Samuels drums on the table once more.
Brendan Samuels: It’s a very simple question, don’t ye think? That simple statement of yours discredits each and every person in that locker room. It discredits all the people that fought long and hard to push this company to the level it has reached, it discredits all those who are still fighting, still growing, still trying to bring Spirit and Pride to the highest possible level… And ye? Yer take the pride we have in what we have accomplished, and instead turn it to more represent the image of one of the Seven Deadly sins. It was Pride that changed angels into devils; it is humility that makes men as angels. Yer take the pride too far, lass.
Samuels stands now, icy daggers cutting right through her.
Brendan Samuels: Yer made it vanity.
He sits back now, smiling once more.
Fujiko’s lips curl like the chesire cat.
Fujiko Mine: Brendan never lets some hypocrisy get in the way of his arguments, does he?
She crosses her legs.
Fujiko Mine: Am not yet the North American champion? Correct. I am not yet the champion. But you are not the wrestling. That's not your legal name. I knew you'd try and be cute, so I decided to one up you. I'll resign that contact without a care in the world, knowing that in a few short weeks I am going to add that title to my list of accomplishments. But let's address that other comment you made.
She leans back a little bit on the turnbuckle.
Fujiko Mine: you think that me saying they I've faced bigger monsters then you is disrespectful to them? I earned my way into this spot. If they've got an issue with me earning this match, let them come out and say so. Find me in the back. I'm here every week. I've got no qualms proving that I belong here.
She narrows her eyes at her opponent.
Fujiko Mine: If you wanna talk about pride, you would think yours would have been hurt to know that Avery doesn't trust you enough to give you anything to lose. In your shoes, I would've told him in no uncertain terms, that if I lost, I'd vacate that National title. Because like I said, I don't need a cushion. Not do I need a handout.
Fujiko raises her eyebrows.
Fujiko Mine: But for you, we know it's not about the wrestling. It's not about spirit, or about pride. It's about you. You don't care about being the “wrestling”. You just care about yourself.
Her smile vanishes.
Fujiko Mine: So if you wanna really talk about pride, give yourself something to lose. Drop the National title, win or lose. Show me you aren't scared.
Look me in the eyes and show me you're a man.
She throws her hands up.
Fujiko Mine: Or, just keep trying to appear witty. You're not great at it, honestly. I've grown bored of this. So tell these fans what you think they want to hear. That you'll be the conquering hero once again. That you'll be…
Brendan cuts her off there and then, and in a sudden movement is right in front of her, looking down. He has gripped her right hand in his left, his eyes looking like tiny frozen demons as he squints at her. The crowd are anticipating a fight to break about between them, and they are all on their feet waiting to see what will happen. Brendan, the iceman, doesn’t say a word, but then the mysterious sailor lifts her hand to his face, kissing her knuckles lightly.
Brendan Samuels: Too much talk, lassie, way too much. An’ if yer feel like ye wanna make decisions like that, why don’t ye go an’ open yer own company. But as yer said, yer dinnae have a care in the world, do yer? Bit bored, ain’t ye?
Brendan smiles as he lets go of her hand letting it drop to her side.
Brendan Samuels: Keep talkin’, Cailín. Keep tweeting, keep poking, keep accusing. It’s what yer do. An outsider, made elsewhere walking in and acting like yer gonna own the place. Me? I was made here. Spirit and Pride molded me into the National Champion. It molded me into “The Wrestling.” Here, nowhere else. So if yer wanna throw out yer falsities, yer lies, yer bullshite out? Feel free. I know the truth, these people know the truth, everyone in the back knows the truth. And I know who I am.
Brendan takes a step back, opening his arms out wide in a crucifix position,
Brendan Samuels: I am The Wrestling.
He grins again as he lowers his shades down.
Brendan Samuels: And yer dinnae tell me what to do. This be my ship, I am the Captain, and ye be just a stowaway trying to throw a mutiny that nobody will ever get behind..
She snaps her fingers, moving her hand in a zipping motion.
Fujiko Mine: Excuse you, you creep. I wasn't finished.
She sneers at him.
Fujiko Mine: First of all, I didn't ask for your lips touching me. You were NOT given permission. You may think you're some suave pirate, you think you’re Johnny Depp in a wrestling ring, but you're just some arrogant discount pirate creep overstepping boundaries. You act like you were “molded” here, yet you’re also out in HKW. But I guess because it fits your narrative, I’m in the wrong, eh? You are so desperate to be right. You need it. You crave it. So it's going to be so sweet when you have to come out here, WITHOUT the North American title, and admit you were wrong. So quaint how you dodged my points, because you don't have an answer for them, and you are too scared to wager up. I didn't force you to make a decision. I just challenged you, and you balked, like I thought you would. You aren't a captain.
You're just a generic coward. So continue to spit your macho crap. I ain't got time for it.
She tosses the microphone and exits the ring, wiping the back of her hand on the ring apron in disgust. “Champion” plays, and she shakes her head as she heads to the back, leaving the National champion in the ring. Brendan made a cut motion as Fujiko’s music suddenly stopped, lifting his shades up as he saw her exit through the curtain. His grin was wider than ever as he propped his title upon his shoulder, turning to the contract and nodding his head. He then looked back to the curtain, the camera zooming in to see him wink in the direction of the curtain, cool and calculated as he mouthed the words “No… now you’re finished.” Brendan then turned to the crowd, his own fans letting out a cheer as he followed Fujiko out the same way, up the ramp and through the curtain. The camera then focused on the contract laying in the centre of the ring before fading away.
______________________________________________________________________________
Final Cavalcade Spot Battle Royal
Aurora vs. Jessica Sears vs. Bryan Williams vs. Charlie Reed vs. Xavier Laroux vs. Masaru Inoue vs. Persephone Marquis vs. Lilah Reed vs. Terrence Tillman vs. Jaser Cruz vs. Gabriel Laroux vs. Desiree Jenkins vs. Ximena Asensio vs. Kowloon Zombie vs. Tyson Braddock vs. Claire Rogers vs. Iris Hawthorne vs. Joey Ortega vs. Siberia Zombie vs. Allen Chaney vs. Oliver Overton vs. Alexander North vs. Cartier vs. Stone Hemingway vs. Cailey Carter vs. Mixcoatl (HELL) vs. Neal Durden (NKP) vs. Bo Adkins (CCP) vs. Richard Roque (PW) vs. Sean Davenport (SSWA)
The bell rang after all thirty participants had entered the ring. Immediately everyone began brawling within the tight quarters trying to make room by eliminating someone. Teams began to band together in an attempt to throw out those who didn’t have any alliances in the match. They also looked to try and throw people out together. This became apparent when the Outkasts got Joey Ortega alone and managed to throw him over the top.
Eliminated: Joey Ortega
Stone Hemingway saw this and quickly made his way over to the two and tossed out Iris Hawthorne. Overton tried to fight off the big man but Hemingway wasn’t in the mood as he lifted Overton up by his throat and tossed him to the outside.
Eliminated: Iris Hawthorne & Oliver Overton
Things were starting to heat up in the match but then the crowd let out a big pop. Vince Steel hadn’t forgotten what had happened to him earlier in his match with Manny and was coming out to finally get a hold of any Laroux he could. Triple T saw him coming and moved towards the side of the ring his cousin was heading. Officials told Steel to go back but he wasn’t listening. Vince climbed up and entered the ring. Xavier decided to strike first and went right after the former National champion. Laroux hit heavy and fast and looked to be doing some damage at first. Then Vince gritted his teeth and started eating shots before clubbing away at Xavier. Everyone around the two gave them room, except for Gabriel who tried to help his brother but got attacked by Triple T. Vince grabbed Xavier by the head and tossed him out to the floor.
Eliminated: Xavier Laroux
Vince then walked over to the ropes and started to climb between them when Gabriel broke away and got a running start to catch Vince with a boot to the face that sent him crashing out to the floor. Triple T ran right after him and toppled him over the top rope sending Gabriel to the floor.
Eliminated: Gabriel Laroux
Gabriel didn’t seem to mind as Xavier was already up and stomping a mud hole into Vince. Terry seemed torn as he didn’t know whether he should exit the ring to help his cousin or stay in the match. Gabriel joined the assault and Tillman looked even more concerned. In the end Tillman’s choice was made for him as Aurora tossed him over the top rope to the floor.
Eliminated: Terrence Tillman
Security was sent out to pull the two teams apart while the match continued inside of the ring. The alliances continued as people hoped to work together until the moment it became everyone for themselves. Things between BGTL and Zombie Vice Squad were already heated before tonight but things really blew up tonight. Ximena and Claire tied Kowloon up in the ropes and proceeded to focus attention on Siberia and tossed her out. Kowloon got free and grabbed hold of Claire and threw her up and over. Ximena was right behind Kowloon though and used his momentum against him to toss him out.
Eliminated: Siberia Zombie, Claire Rogers, Kowloon Zombie
Persephone then turned things on. She saw Ximena was still reeling and quickly tossed her out. She then moved on and went hard on Desiree who Bryan already had cornered and tossed her out. Cailey Carter then tried her hand at slowing down Marquis and paid the price for it as it wasn’t long after that she got tossed out. During her time with Cailey, Bryan was getting worked over by Bo Adkins and Marquis attacked him from behind and tossed him out.
Eliminated: Ximena Asensio, Desiree Jenkins, Cailey Carter, Bo Adkins
Persephone was hotter than hitting three 3-pointers in a row in NBA Jam. She took a moment to stop and play to the crowd which proved to be the wrong thing to do. Tyson Braddock and Alexander North of Holocene ran up behind her and threw her over the top rope. Marquis hit the floor and was instantly pissed out. Tyson and Alex began to mouth off to her telling her that neither her or her man were that good in the first place. Bryan caught wind of this and hit them both with a double clothesline to the back of their heads that sent them spilling over the top. Security was already hanging around ringside after The Fam and Laroux’s incident so they stepped in between Holocene and Persephone before anything could happen.
Eliminated: Persephone Marquis, Tyson Braddock, Alexander North
Teams were still sticking together the best they could. Jess and Jaser seemed to have their differences put aside and were working together against Allen Chaney. The two of them propped him up on the ropes in the corner and Jess made the final push dumping him to the outside. Jess then lifted up her arms to Jaser for a double high five which he enthusiastically complied with. Then as Jess turned to go after someone else Jaser grabbed her by the hair and her gear and threw her up and over the top rope. As Jess got to her feet she was stunned and looked up at Jaser and asked what was he doing? Cruz just shrugged his shoulders and went back to the match.
Eliminated: Allen Chaney, Jessica Sears
The Reeds and Hell is Waiting were the only teams left and they were banding together as the remaining brawled around the ring now that it had much more room. Richard Roque caught Cartier in the corner with a hard elbow and she dropped to the floor and powdered to the outside. Bryan Williams then caught Roque from behind and connected with a few hard blows before sending him to the floor.
Eliminated: Richard Roque
Durden, Davenport, and Cruz all banded together to go after Hell is Waiting. Durden and Davenport got Aurora in a corner where she tried to fend them off. Jaser found his way to the middle of the ring with Masaru which wasn’t the best choice. The two squared off and Masaru used his superior striking skills to get one up on Jaser. Masaru went for a big roundhouse kick but Jaser avoided it. Cruz then swung with a haymaker but Inoue avoided that and then hit him with “Kill shot”. Before Cruz could even hit the ground Masaru had a hold of him and threw him over the top.
Eliminated: Jaser Cruz
Maz then went over and helped out Aurora by attacking Durden and Davenport. Sean then squared off with Maz and the two went back and forth for a bit. Aurora tried to dump Durden over the top rope but he landed on the apron and caught her with a forearm right on the jaw which caused her to back up enough for him to jump back inside the ring. Davenport looked like he had Masaru right where he wanted him but then Maz connected with a “Kill Shot” out of nowhere that sent him over the top to the outside.
Eliminated: Sean Davenport
Durden found his way right into Bryan Williams and the two were fighting tooth and nail near the corner of the ring. Durden was giving it all he had to try and weaken Williams. Bryan grabbed Durden by the trunks and fell backwards into the mat causing Neal to go face first into the middle turnbuckle. Durden bounced back up dazed and Williams used that as an opening and tossed him over the top rope to the floor. Aurora was watching both of them however and snuck up right after Williams sent Durden to the floor and flipped him up and over.
Eliminated: Neal Durden, Bryan Williams
Masaru now found himself being attacked by The Reeds. He managed to fight off Charlie but Lilah wasn’t taking no for an answer and caught Masaru with a low blow. Inoue cringed at the blow and Lilah used it to her advantage to toss him over the top rope. Aurora caught this as she was turning back after eliminating Bryan. Rori darted across the ring and hit Lilah with a lariat sending her over the top. The lariat lifted Aurora’s legs off of the ground and Charlie wasn’t wasting an opportunity. Before Aurora could get her feet to the mat Charlie already had them lifted back up and she went spilling out to the floor.
Eliminated: Masaru Inoue, Lilah Reed, Aurora
Charlie wasn’t given any time to rest as Mixcoatl was right there on top of him. Mixcoatl had spent plenty of the match ducking and weaving between opponents staying incredibly fresh. Charlie on the other hand had spent plenty of the match working with Lilah to beat on people and was feeling worse for the wear. The two men went back and forth having the entirety of the ring to themselves. Charlie took the lead for a moment before Mixcoatl used his predator like offense to slow him down. Finally Mixcoatl landed “Cuerno de Chivo” (springboard corkscrew headbutt to standing opponent) and Charlie went over the top to the floor. Mixcoatl stood up and celebrated. He had thought he won the battle royal and was headed to Cavalcade. He leaned on the top rope and that was when Cartier slid back inside. She ran up right behind Mixcoatl and dumped him to the floor. The bell rang and she was declared the winner.
Eliminated: Charlie Reed, Mixcoatl
Cartier began to dance in the ring excited by the fact that she was moving on as the last person to qualify for Cavalcade.
Winner: Cartier