“Paint me like one of your Dutch squirrels” 3/21/22
Mar 23, 2022 20:27:11 GMT -5
Jessica Matthews ♥ likes this
Post by Avery Quinn on Mar 23, 2022 20:27:11 GMT -5
The camera pans over the Adler Arena in Altoona, Pennsylvania as the SAP faithful are going crazy awaiting another great night of action.
Jackson: Hello everyone I am Jackson Hall, accompanied by Judd Kover and Chris Wintermute. We are back for “Paint me like one of your Dutch squirrels” live from the Adler Arena on the campus of Penn State Altoona!
Chris: Who comes up with the names for these shows?
Judd: Aiden does, you wanna have a talk with him about it?
The camera moves over to show Aiden sitting in his recliner placed next to the commentary table, he’s reclined out eating chipotle.
Chris: No, he looks busy.
Judd: Have you been busy with your cheese making job?
Chris: I told you I work in the office.
Jackson: While these two argue let me remind you what we’ve got going on tonight. Our undercard is full of action as it leads up to the quarterfinals of the Keystone Cup. After tonight the National title tournament will be down to four. Let’s get this show rolling.
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In what is a clearly pre recorded segment we see Joey Ortega sitting outside somewhere on the campus of Penn State Altoona.
“I’m sure plenty of you weren’t expecting me to show up last show. Which you’re fucking stupid if you’re one of those people. I’ve been here since the beginning, nothing was gonna change that. I mean shit this is the only place that will give me a fucking job.
Joey shakes his head before gathering the saliva in his mouth and spitting to the side of him.
“Now tonight I gotta face someone who was also here way back then. Except last time you were here you were a part of some Asian domination group or some shit like that. I just remember you trying to run around like you ran shit which you didn’t fucking do at all. I mean I ain’t got much room to talk. My win loss record is a fucking disaster and a half but unlike you I’m still the same person I was then. Now you’re out here acting like you’re some sweetheart and that all the fans should be eating out of your hands. So which one are you? Are you just faking it for merch sales or whatever money shit you’re looking for?”
Joey grabs his backpack and pulls out a red Four Loko and cracks it open and takes a chug.
“I don’t give a fuck who cheers me or who boos me. That’s not what I’m in this for. I’m in this for the fights and the money. I could give a shit less what any one thinks about me, from the people in the back to the people in the seats.”
A student then walks right through the shot but then stops and turns to Joey.
Student: Hey man this is a dry campus. You’re gonna get in trouble.
Joey quickly stands up and whips the entire can at the head of the student who then goes running off.
“See there’s the difference between me and most of the people in this world. I’m fucking real. I pull no punches and don’t delve into the bullshit. You wouldn’t know real Malaya. I mean shit how much of you is even real anymore? When you step into that ring with me, you’re going to see real up close. You aren’t gonna fucking like it.”
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Backstage, we see Malaya Diyosa with a bit of self-reflection, as she was looking at herself in the mirror and speaking to the reflection of herself.
Malaya Diyosa:
"The last show didn't turn out well for me, and the older me would have thrown a massive fit about it... but, I'm trying to change. I'm trying to be a better person than I was, and I hope you continue to support me."
She said, as an older face from SAP previously, and speaks about her upcoming fight.
Malaya Diyosa:
"Tonight, I have Joey Ortega, a well regarded deathmatch specialist. On paper, someone like me loses every time. But, tonight, I'm rebounding back like a Filipina pinball and going to overcome him. Spirit and Pride is all about heart and perseverance, and I've got plenty to give to fight through whatever he can dish out. Joey can only stand in my way for so long, as the Monarch is coming to take back her throne.
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In another clearly pre recorded segment we see Aiden Quinn sitting in a chair with a horrified look on his face.
Aiden: Ok that’s enough. I’ve seen enough. I can’t watch this any longer. Fine, you got the job. Go to the locker rooms and start to get ready for later. I don’t know how you did that.
The camera then turns to show Junior Valero after eating 4 slices of Altoona style pizza. Valero is holding his stomach but he has a smile on his face.
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Malaya Diyosa vs. Joey Ortega
Once the bell rang Malaya came like a rocket out of the corner and nailed Joey with a dropkick that sent Joey back into his corner and out through the middle rope. Joey spilled to the outside and didn’t have any time to recover as Malaya leaped over the top rope and nailed Ortega with a pescado. Diyosa then grabbed Ortega by the hair and then rolled him into the ring. She went for a cover but only got a two.
Joey is trying to shake the cobwebs but Malaya doesn’t want to give him a chance and is all over him. Joey finally gets a chance and shoves Malaya off before nailing her with a hard right to the gut that doubles her over. The barefoot brawler then puts a boot right to the head of Diyosa sending her to the mat. Joey goes to grab her but she shoots her legs up and brings him over with a head scissors.
Malaya did her best to try and use her lucha skills to keep Joey out of his element and at bay. It worked for a while but even after hitting a springboard stunner and a buzzsaw kick she still couldn’t get Joey down for a three count. Joey was then able to turn the tables when he was able to catch her with a headbutt that left her rocked. Joey quickly wrapped his arms around Malaya and connected with “Whaleman’s Creed” (ripcord heart punch). Diyosa however managed to duck the blow and then grabbed Ortega to land her “Rude Buster” (lightning spiral). Malaya got the cover and the win.
Winner: Malaya Diyose
Jackson: Big win there for Malaya Diyosa as she bounces back this show.
Chris: How does he still have a job!
Judd: We say that about you everyday.
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“Alright, fuckos?”
Opening to a shot of newcomer, Scott Dunn, it’s shown that he’s in catering. A few fans are near him, which demonstrates that he towers over the average person and is twice as wide.
“Your boy Scotty D here, got myself dragged to this shitehole town for tonight’s show.”
Immediate booing ensues.
“Ah shuddup. So, what’s it about, eh? Got me a fight against Petra Vasquez and lads, let me tell you something. I ain’t confident. I ain’t. I don’t reckon she can put up a good scrap. Looked back at her last match, wasn’t impressed. Neither were SAP, clearly, since she wasn’t even booked last show. Big fuckin’ yikes.”
He shrugs. The crowd is still booing though. A dude standing right next to him also boos and Scotty shoves him out of camera shot.
“Tonight she’s gotta face me and it ain’t gonna be pretty, folks. I’m coming here to prove a point, I won’t be fucking it up on the first try. So lass, let me tell you straight up, it ain’t nothing personal. Simply put, you’re in the damn way. Tonight I’m gonna remove you from my view, knock you on your ass and pin you for the one, two, three.”
He grins.
“Then I’m gonna knock a few beers back and watch the rest of these matches. Hopefully some people here impress me and we don’t got a bunch of wet fish flopping about in the ring. Should be a fun time.”
He abruptly ends things by pushing the camera back and walking away while it recovers.
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Claire Lichfield vs. Junior Valero
Junior Valero was taking the spot of recently departed Alexis Lemon. Lichfield didn’t seem to care though as she wasn’t too impressed with the young boy. The bell rang and the two quickly locked up. Claire took this time to really work over the young Valero. She quickly targeted his legs, essentially neutralizing his entire offense. From there it didn’t take long and Lichfield soon had “Shangri-La” (Wakigatame armbar) locked in and Valero tapped out.
Jackson: Tons of credit to Junior Valero but he still has a lot to learn.
Judd: Claire Lichfield is an amazing mat technician and she used that to her advantage here as she made quick work of Valero.
Chris: Was that child abuse?
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The scene opens backstage where Dylan Shepherd is seen wrapping his wrists his tape and smirks at the camera.
Dylan Shepherd: You know I thought the first opponent I had here in SAP was a mute but damn if I didn’t get a dude that has said even less. Nothing in fact.
He shrugs his shoulders and scoffs a bit.
Dylan Shepherd: But I don’t really give a shit about that, nah, that dude doesn’t gotta have the fun banter with me leading up to this. It doesn’t really change a thing that I need to get out there and get my shit on the right track in that SAP ring. That’s the big fuckin picture for me.
He finishes wrapping up his fists.
Dylan Shepherd: Truth be told if Luca Di Paolo don’t show up tonight, it’ll just make me early for my date. Might even give me time to get a full on shower going instead of spot cleaning the hot zones and giving my dangly bits a sprits of cologne to make it through the night.
He laughs, rolling his neck for a moment.
Dylan Shepherd: Let’s see if the Golden Birdie wants to try flying out in the ring with yours truly. But just know Luca… I’ll be the Devilishly Handsome one in the ring with ya. Kisses from the Lovable Psychopath.
He blows a kiss to the camera before walking off.
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Petra Vasquez vs. Scott Dunn
The bell rang and the two met in the middle of the ring, showing the massive size difference between the two. Petra tried to use quickness as her advantage early in the contest but her power based move set wasn’t doing her any favors as Dunn was quickly able to use his size to block her suplex attempts and land his own instead.
This allowed Vasquez to be worn down pretty early into the match. She still gave it all she had however and managed to catch Dunn with a few roundhouse kicks that sent him back into a corner. However when she went for a corner splash Dunn caught her and wrapped her in a bear hug.
Vasquez managed to strike her way out of Dunn’s clutches but she was severely worn down at this point. Still she went for a spear but Dunn caught her and powered her up connecting with the “Dunn and Dusted” (powerbomb lungblower). Dunn makes the cover and gets the three count.
Winner: Scott Dunn
Jackson: What a debut from Scott Dunn here tonight!
Judd: That’s a big man with a lot on his mind when it comes to accomplishments in SAP.
Chris: What do you think his cheat day meals look like?
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Altoona, Pennsylvania, has been completely fair to the action presented by SAP Wrestling which will readily be able to showcase their talents across the world. The special monthly episode will host the quarterfinal matches of the Keystone Cup and up next on the card, a triple threat match involving three major talents will happen. However, this quarterfinal triple threat features a feud that harbors two individuals who absolutely do not like each other but with the third who can capitalize on it. The transitioning into the backstage common area presents Aleks Parker, SAP's experienced backstage personnel, in front of the camera view in professional attire with the microphone in hand.
Aleks Parker: "Ladies and gentlemen, introducing at this time, she's one of the three competitors in the first quarterfinal matches for tonight, "The Legacy of SAP" Serenity Holmes!
There's a strong positive reaction from the Pennsylvania audience, especially Serenity's view on the camera for the interior of the Adler Arena and across the broadcast. Abnormally, Serenity's demeanor tends to be more intensive than in the previous interview and Aleks has seen the difference in the atmospheric environment.
Aleks Parker: "Serenity Holmes, congratulations on your victory over Petra Vasquez that brought you into the quarterfinal match tonight. There's been a lot of social media back and forth between you and Barbara Strong. Tell us, why do you have animosity against Barbara Strong?"
Serenity's eyes close for a second and she exhales trying to contain the violent behavior scratching through the surface. Aleks places a hand on her shoulder to reassure her the interview is safe and she can voice her concerns.
Serenity Holmes: "It's simple Aleks. Barbara Strong is what every woman who a narcissist is. It all started when I saw what she tweeted to Cecile which I will not repeat out of respect for her. She made a comment that was unnecessary after playing like a coward only to send her little manager to help her win and advance into the tournament. Do you really believe that Barbara is all about herself without any impure intentions? No. She wants the spotlight on her, all the attention and she'll be a conniving bitch to get it which I do not appreciate. I can't stand Barbara and that's why I want to beat her. She's a fake, phony bitch who pretends she's the victim but the moment you let her guard down, she's going to unleash her claws and dig it into your soul."
Aleks's eyes were widened from the explicit language by the teenage contender. She could feel the very essence of rage emulating from the young athlete but Serenity was ready for all possible outcomes involving Barbara. Aleks continued on.
Aleks Parker: "But speaking of her manager, Kelly Richards, are you also prepared that she may be involved in your match? After all, a triple threat has no disqualifications."
A slight chuckle escaped from Serenity's lips and it evolved into a laugh. Aleks seemed a little concerned about the particular response but Serenity snapped.
Serenity Holmes: "That's what I want Aleks! I want Kelly to get involved because I heard she's also getting into the ring as well. Now Mr. Quinn can't fine me nor hold me accountable for anything she does. I gave her a warning that if she gets involved, I will have no problem beating the ish out of her too. She may have gotten away with that the first time but lightning doesn't strike the same place twice."
The audience within the interior of the venue praised Serenity's vigilance and awareness of the possibility. She smiled listening to the applause but quickly reverted to a more focused standpoint as Aleks continued on with the interview.
Aleks Parker: "So you're saying that Barb-"
Immediately, Serenity interjected herself.
Serenity Holmes:" I'm saying that Barbara Strong is a fake bitch! That woman is the most disgusting person in SAP Wrestling. What can she say about me, Aleks? I'm brought here because of my father? I was given opportunities because I'm a legacy? I'm dating a man ten years older than me even though I'm eighteen? I want her to pull out all the insults so that she knows I can throw it back at her too even worse. That's her weakness. She likes to attack anyone who can't defend themselves but the moment you say something back to her, she has to run to Mr. Quin victimizing herself so she could get more attention from the men. Barbara Strong is an attention-whore seeking to do whatever it takes to be ahead but this time, it's not going to work. I'm going to break her face in half and give any cosmetic surgeon a chance to prove their worth because the reconstruction would cost SAP every little cent!"
But before Serenity could walk off to her scheduled entrance, there was one more thing Aleks forgot to mention.
Aleks Parker: "But Serenity, you're forgetting one more thing. There's a third participant in this match that could win as well. Lexie, do you have any plans for her?"
Serenity stopped in her tracks and looked over her shoulder with a smirk on her face.
Serenity Holmes: "Collateral damage."
The audience was more intrigued and potentially intimidated by that response. Aleks stepped back a few paces and watches Serenity venture off ahead to her match that was scheduled to happen in the near future.
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Dylan Shepherd vs. Luca Di Paolo
Luca was actually here for this one but when it came time to lock up he wanted no part of it. He quickly went to the ropes and ducked his head out asking the ref to keep Dylan away. The ref asks for space which annoys Dylan. Luca gets back in the ring but when Dylan comes at him Luca quickly drops down and leaves the ring.
Luca stops to argue with some fans around the ring which allows Dylan to drop down and get behind Luca. Dylan taps him on the shoulder and Luca brushes it away to continue arguing with the fan. Dylan does it again and once again Luca brushes it off. This time Dylan slaps him on the shoulder. Luca turns around and eats a right hand from Dylan.
Luca clutches his face and yells at the ref. He then yells at Dylan. He stands up and says this isn’t worth it and then makes a b line for the curtain. The ref and Dylan look at each other confused. Dylan rolls back in the ring and the ref rings the bell and declares Dylan the winner.
Winner: Dylan Shepherd
Jackson: What did we just see?
Judd: Cowardice.
Chris: Hey I don’t blame him. Would you want to get punched in the face like that?
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Barbara Strong: But why can’t we have another Bonding With Barbara? The last episode was generating RATINGS until Cecily had to ruin it. Why is it always the ugly ones who ruin the good things?
Kelly Richards: We’ll get back to Bonding with Barbara, I promise, but first we have serious business tonight. As your agent, it’s my job to keep you focused. And tonight you aren’t wrestling one opponent, you’re wrestling two.
Barbara Strong: I know. I know. Serenity who wants to send me back to the streets, whatever that means. And Lexie. But, as if the world was completely oblivious after what you did at the last show, I’m being trained by a FREAKING LEGEND! Kelly, everything you did as a multiple time champion in Mexico is incredible, but it will pale in comparison to managing me to the KEYSTONE CUP!
The former Mexican wrestling legend, Kelly Richards smirks and crosses her arms as Gregory Howlett walks into the frame with a smug look on his face. The last time we saw him, he was victorious, but a bit unsure of himself.
Kelly Richards: And where have you been, mister big stuff?
Gregory just shrugged, acting cool for the camera as the two of them looked over at him.
Gregory Howlett: Oh you know, just scoping out the competition. Having a walk around the building, stopped by catering, got a quick selfie with some fans outside…you know, living my best life. I took your advice and did some stretching before the match tonight, would be silly not to listen to such a legend, huh?
Before Kelly can reply, Barbara rolls her eyes and interjects herself.
Barbara Strong: Okay Gregory, we know you’re finally feeling like a big boy after learning all these new tricks from Kelly, but I believe I was talking to her right now. I have a very important match against not one but….
Gregory rolls his eyes in return.
Gregory Howlett: TWO people, I know, I’ve heard about it all week. We trained together, remember? Or were you too worried about how your own reflection looked in the mirror?
Barbara Strong: Being a champion is about everything. The complete package. The presentation, the performance, the talent…everything. Have you learned NOTHING?
Kelly steps between the two and puts a hand on each of their chests and grins.
Kelly Richards: I love it. You both are so competitive. That’s amazing. But you’re taking it out on the wrong people. We’re a team. A faction. Comrades. Homies. Whatever the cool kids are saying nowadays. You BOTH have matches to advance in, and hey? If we’re lucky, it’ll be an ALL US finals. But I think you both have learned so much over the last few weeks. I love the fire, but again, save it for your opponents, not each other. As a matter of fact….
The manager for both Gregory and Barbara gets a mischievous grin on her face.
Kelly Richards: I want you both to say something nice about each other. We have to support each other, okay? So Gregory, why don’t you start? Say something nice about Barbara.
Gregory sighs at Kelly’s suggestion but he knows well enough than to argue with her right now, she was in charge and truth be told she’d already done so much to further his career that he almost felt obligated to her, like Brady to Belichick.
Gregory Howlett: Okay, something nice about Barbara…well I’d just like to say that I think you have a great immune system to have recovered from that terrible illness you had earlier in the week.
Barbara snaps back almost immediately without missing a beat.
Barbara Strong: And I think you’re finally growing into that big head of yours! I think I even saw your hat fitting you at the gym the other day. Major accomplishment!
Kelly shakes her head at the pair of rookies before getting serious.
Kelly Richards: You both think this is funny? How funny will it be if Salem kicks your ass tonight, Greg? And Barb, how will the ratings look if Serenity follow through on her threat and has you begging for mercy? What if the both of you are eliminated from the Keystone Cup after tonight because you were too busy thinking of jokes to spout at each other that you weren’t focused on your opponents?
Greg. Salem is SUPER ACCOMPLISHED. She’s been a champion in the best places in the world, and Kelly, Serenity also knows what it’s like to be a champion. She’s a current women’s champion elsewhere AND she was RAISED by a wrestler. I haven’t even mentioned Lexie who is yet another threat. I believe in you two, but you need to believe in yourselves and focus on what matters.
Richards turns to Gregory and shakes him by the shoulders.
Kelly Richards: Are you ready for Salem?
Gregory was postured like a six year old being lectured on not sharing his toys with the other children.
Gregory Howlett: Yes, I’m ready for Salem and I think all of our training leading up to tonight should speak for itself. And you’re right, we should be working as a team and propping each other up rather than poking fun at one another. Barbara, I admire your competitive spirit and how much work you put into everything you set your mind to, not just wrestling.
He perks up, stretching out his shoulders a bit and getting hyped.
Gregory Howlett: And Kelly you’re a great mentor and I look forward to learning so much more from you, we’ve got this Keystone Tournament on lock!
Barbara nods in agreement, finally seeing her new mentor’s point, especially after the revelation from her training partner Gregory.
Barbara Strong: He’s right. We have busted our butts the last few weeks, and I want to be taken seriously. I’m so much more than just a pretty face, and Gregory is as determined as anyone I’ve ever seen. We both have the look of a champion. We’re both winners. We’re BOTH advancing. And Serenity is the one who’s going back to the streets, for the record!
The three of them laugh as Kelly grabs their heads and playfully pulls them in and under an arm each.
Kelly Richards: Yay! Now that we’re all on the same page, lets get these wins and then Pizza. Gregory’s treat! Sound like the proper motivation?
Gregory Howlett: My treat?!?
He looks like he wants to dispute that order, but decides against it.
Gregory Howlett: Okay, okay…but first we have to get these Ws!
Kelly Richards: Then what are you waiting for? You're up first. Show Barbara how it’s done!
Barbara actually walks up behind Gregory and rubs his shoulders a bit while leaning close to his ear.
Barbara Strong: Go out there and be BARBARA STRONG! Get it….Strong?
The three of them laugh, but the fact remains: Both rookies now have a former champion teaching them the ins and outs of the ring. Would the rookies be able to advance further into the Keystone Cup? Only time would tell!
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Jessica Matthews vs. Freddie Florentino
The bell rang and these two began to circle each other as they exchanged words. The two locked up and began a chain exchange that saw the more experienced Matthews get the upper hand. Freddie takes a minute to roll to the outside and catch a breath. Meanwhile Jess motions for him to come back.
The two now meet in the ring and began to throw hard strikes at each other. They trade European uppercuts and hard chops as they try to wear each other down. Freddie chops Jess into a corner and then snapmare’s her out of it and gets a running start before driving a knee into the back of her head. Florentino then pulled Jess up to quickly hit the “Riverside Ride” (fireman’s carry double knee gutbuster). Freddie went for a cover but only got a two.
Jess was able to work herself back into the match after a shotgun dropkick followed by a corner shining wizard. She then pulled him out of the corner and climbed to the top looking for the “Silver Moon Shockwave” (630 Senton). Jess leaps from the top rope but Freddie turns himself that once Jess lands he grabs her and locks on the “Flowmission” (dragon sleeper with body scissors). Freddie cranks on it hard. Jess tries to find an escape but can’t in time as she fades away. The referee breaks the hold and declares Freddie the winner.
Winner: Freddie Florentino
Jackson: Freddie picks up his first win in SAP while Jess now has her second loss in a row.
Judd: Freddie might be cocky but that was a smart move at the end there that got him the win.
Chris: Freddie was already a winner, have you seen his girlfriend?
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“Eliminated in the first round… and now this…”
Backstage of the Adler Arena, the Eternal Paladin wanders aimlessly in her ring attire. She’s barely aware of one of the cameras observing her. Her right hand uses the wall for support while her left arm cradles her ribs. Naturally, her Captain America Shield is braced on her right arm. Her golden blonde hair is a mess and her blue eyes are dim.
JESSICA MATTHEWS: “Hannah Hartman… I have nothing but respect for the young lady. She did well. I wish nothing but the best for her. But Freddie Florentino…?”
She shakes her head out of disgust.
JESSICA MATTHEWS: “I’m better than that. Losing to that dummkopf? I can’t believe this… Ugh.”
Her fingers draw away and she closes her right hand into a fist. She drives the side of it against the wall she’s been using to support herself and grits her teeth.
JESSICA MATTHEWS: “This is unacceptable! I’m supposed to be better than this. I… I have to turn this around…”
Drawing breath only hurts a little now. Still, she’s tired. Without warning, the ceiling lights begin to flicker on and off. Jessica looks up and stares at the flickering lights. Her eyes grow wide for a brief moment before she slowly closes them. Her fist pulls away from the wall and she sighs softly.
JESSICA MATTHEWS: “...It’s time to go home. There’s still so much to do.”
Opening her eyes, she begins to make her way out of the arena. It appears she doesn’t intend to stay and watch the rest of the show. After she makes her way through the exit, the lights stop flickering and they stay on like nothing happened. The camera then changes perspective.
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We cut backstage to Lexie Smith who's got various flavours of icey drinks. The colourful syrupy icey drinks are very vibrant as the camera casually goes over these drinks with post production camera panning.
Joining Lexie, feeling very antsy as she can't take any of the drinks is Honey who has just seen Turning Red, and happens to have a red panda shirt and cap on.
Honey: Cousin Lexie! Can I try just one of these drinks! Please!
Honey says strained and looking for that sugar fix. Lexie puts her two hands down so she's not shaking them at her.
Lexie: Relax, Honey. After I make my point.
And Lexie turns to the camera. Dressed fully ready to compete in her one piece with knee pads, elbow pads and boots all designed to be sleek and be a royal blue and black colour scheme.
Lexie: Which is to show how I'm against two people in this Keystone tournament. Twitter poll says Barbara's likely to win, they've never been wrong?
Honey: They haven't?
Honey says watching Lexie and extending her hand out for the ice blue cup, but Lexie puts it down.
Lexie: Where as our other girl. Holmes. She's a bit of a mixed (bag) drink. She's got a dash of Spirit And Pride going on. But she's got a slab of Action Wrestling in there. Now when it comes to these drinks, as I believe it'll come to the winner of this tournament. SAP's winner will be exclusively signed here. No Mango mishmash with grape.
Lexie puts a cup top on that drink and hands it off to a hand off screen. Honey's eyes go big and cute like a certain kitty as she sees that drink go.
Honey: Mango Grape Slushy…
Lexie: No watermelon and blue blast.
Honey tugs on her hair as she sees all sorts of people starting to put the caps on the drinks and take them from the table.
Honey: There's going to be none left….
Lexie: And there'll be no 'Strong' flavour like this awful lime flavour. Gradually we fall until we get to the one flavour the company is known for. The one superstar SAP will be known for I should say.
Lexie holds up the strawberry flavoured one, smirking behind it.
Lexie: No mixed blended focus or Strong. Fight it out on Twitter, girls. Because while you've been exercising those thumbs, I've been pushing myself further than ever as that's what the company needs, expects and I deliver to it. I've got two opponents, I've won several triple threats before.
Lexie then shrugs and passes that strawberry flavoured one to Honey, who makes a slight YES grunt under her breath.
Lexie Smith: I'll do it again. See you out there.
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There's a rustling, like a cellophane wrapper that evokes instant nostalgia – it's like that crinkly wrapper on those red and green strawberry candies your grandma used to keep in her purse along with that baggie of those gross Scotch mints. That sound continues for a few seconds before the darkness resolves into a low-budget black-and-white view of the backstage area of the Adler Arena. That Greek Grappler Lex Collins moves into view, sitting down on top of one of the rolling equipment boxes with his back against the wall.
LEX COLLINS: If the Internet polls’re to be believed, I’m gonna go the distance – not that I put all that much stock into popularity contests. The whole thing, popularity I mean… has been this sorta anathema to me since high school. I got invited to parties, included in the stuff the jocks did ‘cause I was on the fringe there, dabbling with just enough extra curriculars to keep the prying eyes otherwise at bay. Most of the time, though, was spendin’ lunch hours in the auto shop, up to my elbows in the greasy guts of some jalopy. Never really outgrew that aversion to social interactions.
He shrugs, pulling one knee up to his chest.
LEX COLLINS: Many moons and many therapy sessions later, I’ve got labels… everything wrapped up in a neat little bow and compartmentalised, filed away as the cause an’ effect of mental illness. It goes in cycles, usually I can recognize a turn coming on and I ghost. Silence is easier to explain – guess that’s what I’m goin’ around sideways into saying. Appreciate the votes, I do. Don’t get me wrong. I just wish I could rise above the muck to beat my chest an’ crow about those foregone conclusion accomplishments.
He picks up an unopened can of Pepsi from beside him, flicking the tab with his thumbnail a few times – the sound is annoying, repetitive and he seems to be using that to pull himself back on track. Finally, he sighs and shakes his head.
LEX COLLINS: I’ve been everywhere – that’s what Hannah Hartman said. I dunno if that’s good or bad. Sometimes I worry there’s too much shit packed in my head that it all gets scrambled ‘round.
He lets out a rueful chuckle.
LEX COLLINS: I feel like when you die, when the life flashes before your eyes, it’s a rewind – you get to watch your fondest memories in reverse ‘til all the people you love are strangers. I believe that ‘cause I’ve been there. Saw how insignificant all this shit I let consume me in those early years truly was and I guess that’s hindsight at its finest. Like when you finally have a fuckin' breakthrough, that's what happens. The worst times, they roll back an' you can see all those branches, all those paths you coulda gone down at the time if it wasn't for that goddamned tunnel vision.
That crooked and sardonic smirk curves his lips as his shoulders twitch in another idle shrug.
LEX COLLINS: Do I wanna win? Prove those faceless supporters out there in the aether of the Internet right? Yeah, I guess I do. Deep down – I always want that. I mean, there ain't no green on me no more. The ROOKIE tag was burned up in the fuckin' atmosphere almost a decade ago. Time flies, man. Really does. Been everywhere. Done it all, more’n once. So now's time to hang somethin' else above my head. Another sign, blockin' up the scenery... heh. What's it gonna be? Failure. Usurper. Asshole. Liar. Fraud. However my critics wanna spin it an' it's just another shadow – tell me I'm doin' it all wrong an' I'm gonna throw my head back an' laugh 'cause this' MY story I'm writing in bloodshed. My own. Theirs. Don’t matter when it’s for a good cause. So, put another sign up there over my head. Don’t bother me none.
He pauses for a second, letting that thought steep.
LEX COLLINS: You're gettin' me at a very weird time in my life. I'm not quite in the present or lookin' towards the future. I got one foot in each an' I'm just doin' my best to keep livin'... fuckin' L-I-V-I-N, y'know?
There's a definite McConaughey drawl to that before he chuckles softly.
LEX COLLINS: The shadow's gone an' where it's going isn’t where I'm headed. Set my sights on finer things and the one thing ringin' true above all else is how I spent half a lifetime in the lion's mouth, waitin' to be eaten like a chump. Overcoming that's the victory'at means the most to me. Winning this Keystone thing’s just gravy. Makes it all a bit more palatable, y’know?
He shrugs and hops down off the box, flashing index and middle finger at the camera for a moment.
______________________________
Keystone Cup Quarterfinal Match
Barbara Strong vs. Serenity Holmes vs. Lexie
Once the bell rings Barb and Serenity are at it and swinging, leaving Lexie standing on the outside of it. Lexie goes to intersect but both Barb and Serenity shove her off. Lexie gets back up and this time nails a dropkick that sends both women spilling to the outside. Lexie rolled out after them and the three began to brawl around ringside.
The three wind up back in the ring and Serenity and Lexie start to go at it. The exchange ends with Holmes landing “Dancehall Party” (Kobashi Chops followed by Roundhouse Kicks into the chest then ended by an Exploder Suplex in the corner). Lexie sits herself up but then in comes Strong with the “Beautiful Back Up (As the opponent is in the corner, Barbara runs and at the last second turns around and rams her backside into their chest). Lexie then rolls out to the floor.
With Barb and Serenity now left with just each other they immediately go back to slugging it out. Once Serenity starts to take the upper hand Barb is quick to rake her eyes. Barb then grabs Serenity by the hair and slams her to the mat. Barb then takes a lap around the ring to trash talk which allows Holmes to get back to her feet. Serenity rushes Barb and nails her with a lariat. Serenity then heads to the ropes but Kelly Richards who had snuck down to ringside grabs the legs of Holmes and pulls her out of the ring. Barb gets up to her feet with a smile after seeing Kelly and raises her arms up in victory. What she doesn’t see is Lexie sliding back into the ring as she leaps up and lands the “O’Hagan Crusha” (RKO)! Lexie makes the cover and gets the three count.
Winner: Lexie
Jackson: Lexie advances to the semi finals of the Keystone Cup!
Judd: Strong and Holmes were so focused on each other that they let the wildcard take the victory.
Chris: Barbara was just robbed. They should give her this win.
______________________________
We find Aleks Parker backstage.
ALEKS PARKER: Ladies and gentlemen, with me at this time… Salem Cartier!
Salem steps up wearing a dark purple kimono robe emblazoned with a gold dragon on the back, which she shows off to the camera. She’s gnawing on a candy cigarette for comedic effect. She takes it out of her mouth and taps the non-existent ash on the ground.
SALEM CARTIER: Hey AP, damn glad to be here.
She gives Aleks a wink.
ALEKS PARKER: Right… so um. This week you carry on in the Keystone Cup Tournament after dispatching Claire Lichfield in the first round.
She took a couple of “puffs” on the cigarette.
SALEM CARTIER: Yeah, you know… I’m sure a certain sect out there was betting against me to win that match. Like I was gonna go down like Brittany Renner after an NBA game. Pfft. Look at me, I’m the tits! I only trust other witches as far as I can throw them; and that’s just what I am, a solitary ma’am. She should be used to a brooming, no big deal.
She ate the cigarette, then produced a pack and pulled another one out. She offered one to Aleks.
ALEKS PARKER: Oh… no thank you, I’m trying to quit. So tonight you face Greg Howlett.
Salem nodded.
SALEM CARTIER: That’s right… right here in Toon Town… Altoona, PA! And for god’s sake don’t eat the “pizza”. Listen up Mr. Howlett… any relation to Wolverine? Tee-hee. Don’t matter, I’m Weapon Hex. Now I know that you are a fellow Canuck, Greggy-kins… so that’s kinda cool. You got that going for ya, which is nice. But tonight? You can be oh so polite and shake my hand when I beat you, bub. Because what do you really bring to Spirit And Pride? Let’s see…
She holds up her hand and checks her “notes” and then “extinguishes” her cigarette in her palm before tossing it aside.
SALEM CARTIER: Oh yeah, an ex-football player that is too cocky for his own good. Man, talk about a unique entity in this great sport…. You’re gonna revolutionize the game! Nah man, you’re kinda square dawg… you could use a bit more pizazz in your life. But you’re in luck, because that’s where I come in. I can put you on the map and make you a talking point of SAP. By you beating me? Pffft, hardly. I’m talking the polite Canadian thing to do and have a good match with you. You can have a little bit of shine even when you’re staring up at the lights. You’re Bad? Like Weird Al, I’m Even Worse. Tonight we burn the house down in Altoona and a witch will walk through the fire and the flame, marching on in this tournament. Smoke ‘em if ya got ‘em.
She tosses the pack of cigs at the camera and departs, leaving Aleks to only shrug holding the mic.
______________________________
Keystone Cup Quarterfinal Match
Hannah Hartman vs. Lex Collins vs. ARCADe
The bell rang and all three circled each other, wary of the others. Hartman struck first with a shoulder block to ARCADe followed by a back heel kick to Collins. She then hit the ropes and went for a lariat on ARCADe but he ducks it. Hartman rebounds off of the ropes but eats two elbows from Collins and ARCADe. ARCADe then followed that up with a dropsault on Collins landing on Hartman. The ref made the count but only got two.
The three then each took turns trying to neutralize one opponent so that they could take their time on another but the three just kept finding counters for each other. ARCADe was showing himself to be quite the escape artist. Lex’s experience was allowing him to stay a step ahead of his opponents. Hannah’s strength was giving her opponents tons of trouble. Still Hannah was able to catch ARCADe with her “Frost Warning” spinebuster but Lex broke the count.
The three kept exchanging shots and moves with no one really getting the upper hand until Hannah managed to hit ARCADe with a huge release deadlift German. She quickly got up trying to go for the pin but was nailed with “Bricks” (hard right hook) by Lex that dropped her. Lex made the cover and got the three count.
Winner: Lex Collins
Jackson: Lex Collins moves on to the semis!
Judd: It’s always good to see the old dogs still pushing forward in this business.
Chris: She’ll be lucky if she’s not drinking her food through a straw.
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Brendan Samuels: Stake yer claims, make yer points, praise yer own name, be the Face of SAP… I be The Wrestling.
Came the voice of Brendan Samuels, attired in an obnoxiously sea blue Hawaiian shirt and a pair of white chinos. His eyes were cast to the nearest television screen, images of the latest match in SAP replaying in front of him ahead of his second main event since the company reopened it’s doors after a long hiatus. The Irishman grinned at the camera, have turning towards the camera.
Brendan Samuels: Ten names left, ten names that lay claim to the Spirit and Pride National Wrestling Championship. Ten names that want to reach the very top in the company were the pride, honour, and love of professional wrestling mean more than anything else. Ten names that will want to be remembered forever, to be called out by fans across the country, an’ across the great blue oceans. Ten names that will scream out loud over the seas, but only four will progress.
He stated, the former SAP National and North American Champion bearing a smug chin on his handsome features as he stroked his chin, the confident iceman piercing a hole in the lens with those frozen blue eyes of his.
Brendan Samuels: The luck of the draw be somethin’ that many be talking about. Two singles matches, two triple threats. Some be believing that an advantage has been played for some, disadvantage for others. Two competitors will be eliminated from the
Keystone Cup without having a fall against them, an’ that may be a tragedy. But with the numbers, ye all knew that be a possibility when it came down to it. But for them in singles action, there be no excuses… Even if some make them already due to a fan vote.
Brendan wagged his finger, as the light glistened off of the Liberty Pro United States belt on his left shoulder, and the Legacy Pro Tag Team belt on his right. Crossing his strong arms across his broad chest, The Navigator of the wrestling seas continued to speak on in that smooth as silk Southern Irish accent of his.
Brendan Samuels: Bianca Reed, I know ye well. A product of RISE, one of the finer graduates from their ranks. Trained by the likes of Arkia, Aurora, Andreas… And known to be the favourite student of the late, great Prince Kamijo. A member of SeeD, a rebel group along with me sister Caintigern, Nariko an’ one of me closest friends, Anastasia Starling. A woman known for her skill an’ ferocity in the ring, a woman who is part of a proud combat sports family, a woman with some of the fiercest determination in the sport.
That grin got wider on the face of the County Cork native after speaking on his Quarter Final opponent in the Keystone Cup, taking a moment to praise the woman he was set to face later on in the night. Giving a pause, he looked to both his championship belts, and then to the SAP logo that was behind him, before continuing on with just a dash, the slightest dash of fury.
Brendan Samuels: An’ yet she be also one of the most universally hated in the sport by her peers. A woman who even has clubs dedicated to bad mouthing her. A woman who seems to be embracing the poison she be labelled. A woman who is easily irked by the voice of the people when it is against her. It be a different side to her from the one I have met before, an almost careless disdain for the opinion of the public, an’ a willingness to group anyone who not be in the same bracket all together. Be that as it may, an’ be who ye be, but dinnae talk of being underestimated when ye cannae do nothin’ but talk down to those who would put ye down.
Samuels turned to his right, picking up his latest incarnation of his now famous pirate themed flag, draping it over his shoulders as he gave one final sign off.
Brendan Samuels: I respect what ye have done on the canvas, Reed. Though I dinnae need to respect ye words, nor do I ask ye to respect mine. But when the bell rings, the flag is raised on high an’ ye stand face to face with me… Ye’ll realise that the words dinnae matter at all. An’ all that matters is the contest, the sport, the spirit, the pride… The Wrestling. An’ ye will know my name.
______________________________
“Classy” Bianca Page is putting her sunglasses on as she is walking backstage of the Adler Arena when Aleks Parker comes walking up to Bianca.
Aleks Parker:Ms. Page, Ms. Page may I get a word?
Bianca lowers her sunglasses to the end of her nose, looks at Aleks, and cracks a smile.
“Classy” Bianca Page:Sure, why not?
Bianca slides her sunglasses back over her eyes.
“Classy” Bianca Page:You know, I just met with the Quinn men. They are a very good looking bunch.
Aleks Parker:Um…Yes?
“Classy” Bianca Page:It was merely a pleasant observation but I digress because I have a man waiting for me at our home.
Aleks nods her head.
Aleks Parker:Well we have seen over the last week since you officially signed to become a part of the SAP you have been counting down the days till your first appearance on SAP Television.
“Classy” Bianca Page:I felt the need to put the entire SAP roster on notice that I am not here to play around or play second fiddle to anybody. I don’t care if it is someone who I have a lot of unfortunate history with like Malaya Diyosa or someone else on the roster who I have no idea who they are, much less work with them. Like everyone else I want to be the SAP National Champion but I will also be the franchise of this company. The person that will take SAP to a whole new level of excellence it has never experienced before. So when I end up ruffling your feathers and I undoubtedly will anger you because I know your deep dark secret that you realize you aren’t worthy of breathing the same air that I do.Just know that it is alright. And I will make up for your many shortcomings. It is just part of my superior charm. Think I am just blowing smoke all you want but it won’t change what you know in your heart of hearts is true and won’t be able to stop my ascension to the top of SAP.
______________________________
Keystone Cup Quarterfinal Match
Salem Cartier vs. Gregory Howlett
The two circled each other to start with the trash talk heavy. One would have to assume that Howlett was trying to work some mind games to try and balance against Salem’s experience. The two locked up and Greg used his size advantage to back Salem into the corner. The ref called for a break and Howlett at first backed off but then went for a right hand but Salem ducked it.
Howlett turned around to take an arm drag and Salem immediately started to work on the arm. Greg was able to fight free but anytime he started to go for anything Salem was right back to targeting the arm. Howlett was still able to get offense however as he connected with a combo of a snap suplex, jumping elbow drop, and a sidewalk slam. Greg went for a cover but only got a two.
He pulled Salem up and whipped her into the ropes and went for a lariat but Cartier ducked it and then rebounded off of the ropes and hit Howlett with a dropkick right to the shoulder of the arm she was already working on. Greg went down and Salem quickly went for a cross armbreaker. It looked like Salem may have had it at first but Howlett managed to lock his hands. He folded up Salem for a cover causing her to break the hold.
Salem was able to hit Greg in the gut with a hard knee and followed that up with an ipponzeoi and right into an arm bar. Howlett worked back to his feet and landed a few forearms that sent Salem stumbling back. Howlett rushed at her but she side stepped him. When Howlett turned around his was greeted with a surprise “New Hampshire Handshake” (high velocity leaping elbow strike to the jaw). Salem goes for the cover and gets the three count.
Winner: Salem Cartier
Jackson: New Hampshire Handshake out of nowhere!
Judd: Salem was playing her cards right and knew when to lay them on the table.
Chris: That has never happened to me any time I’ve been to New Hampshire.
______________________________
Keystone Cup Quarterfinal Match
Brendan Samuels vs. Bianca Reed
The bell rang and the two met in the middle of the ring. The crowd was hot for this one as the big fight feel was real. Bianca was the first to attack as she stomped on the foot of Brendan making him cringe in a way that lowered his head, she followed with a punch to his face and then a hard chop to the chest. Samuels took a few steps back trying to get back to his game plan but Reed already had one of her own.
Bianca kept the pace fast. It was evident that Samuels was being thrown off of his game and the crowd wasn’t sure how to react to it. Bianca was sticking to her kicks and high flying abilities. Even landing her “Falling Star” (meteora) but was only able to get a two count from it. Bren knew he was in a rough spot and he needed to change things quick. Bianca went for another high kick but this time he was able to catch it and hit a nasty dragon screw.
Bianca immediately grabbed at her knee and let out a scream. Samuels rushed over to go for a pin but Reed knew what she was doing and pulled Samuels in for a small package. It was close but Brendan kicked out before the three could be counted. The two got back to their feet and and Bianca swung at Brendan trying to keep the pressure on but he hooked her arm and spun her locking in a crossface chicken wing. From there he quickly connected with “Mac Lir” (Millennium suplex) to get the three count.
Winner: Brendan Samuels
Jackson: What resiliency from Brendan Samuels here tonight!
Judd: Bianca Reed is a top notch competitor and this one honestly could have gone either way, but kudos to Samuels for sticking through to the end for this.
Jackson: The semi finals are now set with Lex Collins, Salem Cartier, Lexie, and Brendan Samuels!
Judd: But who will face who?
Jackson: I’m sure that’s something we will found out in the coming days but we will see you all on April 11th!
Judd: Unless Chris has to stay home and make cheese.
Chris: I work in the office!
Jackson: Hello everyone I am Jackson Hall, accompanied by Judd Kover and Chris Wintermute. We are back for “Paint me like one of your Dutch squirrels” live from the Adler Arena on the campus of Penn State Altoona!
Chris: Who comes up with the names for these shows?
Judd: Aiden does, you wanna have a talk with him about it?
The camera moves over to show Aiden sitting in his recliner placed next to the commentary table, he’s reclined out eating chipotle.
Chris: No, he looks busy.
Judd: Have you been busy with your cheese making job?
Chris: I told you I work in the office.
Jackson: While these two argue let me remind you what we’ve got going on tonight. Our undercard is full of action as it leads up to the quarterfinals of the Keystone Cup. After tonight the National title tournament will be down to four. Let’s get this show rolling.
______________________________
In what is a clearly pre recorded segment we see Joey Ortega sitting outside somewhere on the campus of Penn State Altoona.
“I’m sure plenty of you weren’t expecting me to show up last show. Which you’re fucking stupid if you’re one of those people. I’ve been here since the beginning, nothing was gonna change that. I mean shit this is the only place that will give me a fucking job.
Joey shakes his head before gathering the saliva in his mouth and spitting to the side of him.
“Now tonight I gotta face someone who was also here way back then. Except last time you were here you were a part of some Asian domination group or some shit like that. I just remember you trying to run around like you ran shit which you didn’t fucking do at all. I mean I ain’t got much room to talk. My win loss record is a fucking disaster and a half but unlike you I’m still the same person I was then. Now you’re out here acting like you’re some sweetheart and that all the fans should be eating out of your hands. So which one are you? Are you just faking it for merch sales or whatever money shit you’re looking for?”
Joey grabs his backpack and pulls out a red Four Loko and cracks it open and takes a chug.
“I don’t give a fuck who cheers me or who boos me. That’s not what I’m in this for. I’m in this for the fights and the money. I could give a shit less what any one thinks about me, from the people in the back to the people in the seats.”
A student then walks right through the shot but then stops and turns to Joey.
Student: Hey man this is a dry campus. You’re gonna get in trouble.
Joey quickly stands up and whips the entire can at the head of the student who then goes running off.
“See there’s the difference between me and most of the people in this world. I’m fucking real. I pull no punches and don’t delve into the bullshit. You wouldn’t know real Malaya. I mean shit how much of you is even real anymore? When you step into that ring with me, you’re going to see real up close. You aren’t gonna fucking like it.”
______________________________
Backstage, we see Malaya Diyosa with a bit of self-reflection, as she was looking at herself in the mirror and speaking to the reflection of herself.
Malaya Diyosa:
"The last show didn't turn out well for me, and the older me would have thrown a massive fit about it... but, I'm trying to change. I'm trying to be a better person than I was, and I hope you continue to support me."
She said, as an older face from SAP previously, and speaks about her upcoming fight.
Malaya Diyosa:
"Tonight, I have Joey Ortega, a well regarded deathmatch specialist. On paper, someone like me loses every time. But, tonight, I'm rebounding back like a Filipina pinball and going to overcome him. Spirit and Pride is all about heart and perseverance, and I've got plenty to give to fight through whatever he can dish out. Joey can only stand in my way for so long, as the Monarch is coming to take back her throne.
______________________________
In another clearly pre recorded segment we see Aiden Quinn sitting in a chair with a horrified look on his face.
Aiden: Ok that’s enough. I’ve seen enough. I can’t watch this any longer. Fine, you got the job. Go to the locker rooms and start to get ready for later. I don’t know how you did that.
The camera then turns to show Junior Valero after eating 4 slices of Altoona style pizza. Valero is holding his stomach but he has a smile on his face.
______________________________
Malaya Diyosa vs. Joey Ortega
Once the bell rang Malaya came like a rocket out of the corner and nailed Joey with a dropkick that sent Joey back into his corner and out through the middle rope. Joey spilled to the outside and didn’t have any time to recover as Malaya leaped over the top rope and nailed Ortega with a pescado. Diyosa then grabbed Ortega by the hair and then rolled him into the ring. She went for a cover but only got a two.
Joey is trying to shake the cobwebs but Malaya doesn’t want to give him a chance and is all over him. Joey finally gets a chance and shoves Malaya off before nailing her with a hard right to the gut that doubles her over. The barefoot brawler then puts a boot right to the head of Diyosa sending her to the mat. Joey goes to grab her but she shoots her legs up and brings him over with a head scissors.
Malaya did her best to try and use her lucha skills to keep Joey out of his element and at bay. It worked for a while but even after hitting a springboard stunner and a buzzsaw kick she still couldn’t get Joey down for a three count. Joey was then able to turn the tables when he was able to catch her with a headbutt that left her rocked. Joey quickly wrapped his arms around Malaya and connected with “Whaleman’s Creed” (ripcord heart punch). Diyosa however managed to duck the blow and then grabbed Ortega to land her “Rude Buster” (lightning spiral). Malaya got the cover and the win.
Winner: Malaya Diyose
Jackson: Big win there for Malaya Diyosa as she bounces back this show.
Chris: How does he still have a job!
Judd: We say that about you everyday.
______________________________
“Alright, fuckos?”
Opening to a shot of newcomer, Scott Dunn, it’s shown that he’s in catering. A few fans are near him, which demonstrates that he towers over the average person and is twice as wide.
“Your boy Scotty D here, got myself dragged to this shitehole town for tonight’s show.”
Immediate booing ensues.
“Ah shuddup. So, what’s it about, eh? Got me a fight against Petra Vasquez and lads, let me tell you something. I ain’t confident. I ain’t. I don’t reckon she can put up a good scrap. Looked back at her last match, wasn’t impressed. Neither were SAP, clearly, since she wasn’t even booked last show. Big fuckin’ yikes.”
He shrugs. The crowd is still booing though. A dude standing right next to him also boos and Scotty shoves him out of camera shot.
“Tonight she’s gotta face me and it ain’t gonna be pretty, folks. I’m coming here to prove a point, I won’t be fucking it up on the first try. So lass, let me tell you straight up, it ain’t nothing personal. Simply put, you’re in the damn way. Tonight I’m gonna remove you from my view, knock you on your ass and pin you for the one, two, three.”
He grins.
“Then I’m gonna knock a few beers back and watch the rest of these matches. Hopefully some people here impress me and we don’t got a bunch of wet fish flopping about in the ring. Should be a fun time.”
He abruptly ends things by pushing the camera back and walking away while it recovers.
______________________________
Claire Lichfield vs. Junior Valero
Junior Valero was taking the spot of recently departed Alexis Lemon. Lichfield didn’t seem to care though as she wasn’t too impressed with the young boy. The bell rang and the two quickly locked up. Claire took this time to really work over the young Valero. She quickly targeted his legs, essentially neutralizing his entire offense. From there it didn’t take long and Lichfield soon had “Shangri-La” (Wakigatame armbar) locked in and Valero tapped out.
Jackson: Tons of credit to Junior Valero but he still has a lot to learn.
Judd: Claire Lichfield is an amazing mat technician and she used that to her advantage here as she made quick work of Valero.
Chris: Was that child abuse?
______________________________
The scene opens backstage where Dylan Shepherd is seen wrapping his wrists his tape and smirks at the camera.
Dylan Shepherd: You know I thought the first opponent I had here in SAP was a mute but damn if I didn’t get a dude that has said even less. Nothing in fact.
He shrugs his shoulders and scoffs a bit.
Dylan Shepherd: But I don’t really give a shit about that, nah, that dude doesn’t gotta have the fun banter with me leading up to this. It doesn’t really change a thing that I need to get out there and get my shit on the right track in that SAP ring. That’s the big fuckin picture for me.
He finishes wrapping up his fists.
Dylan Shepherd: Truth be told if Luca Di Paolo don’t show up tonight, it’ll just make me early for my date. Might even give me time to get a full on shower going instead of spot cleaning the hot zones and giving my dangly bits a sprits of cologne to make it through the night.
He laughs, rolling his neck for a moment.
Dylan Shepherd: Let’s see if the Golden Birdie wants to try flying out in the ring with yours truly. But just know Luca… I’ll be the Devilishly Handsome one in the ring with ya. Kisses from the Lovable Psychopath.
He blows a kiss to the camera before walking off.
______________________________
Petra Vasquez vs. Scott Dunn
The bell rang and the two met in the middle of the ring, showing the massive size difference between the two. Petra tried to use quickness as her advantage early in the contest but her power based move set wasn’t doing her any favors as Dunn was quickly able to use his size to block her suplex attempts and land his own instead.
This allowed Vasquez to be worn down pretty early into the match. She still gave it all she had however and managed to catch Dunn with a few roundhouse kicks that sent him back into a corner. However when she went for a corner splash Dunn caught her and wrapped her in a bear hug.
Vasquez managed to strike her way out of Dunn’s clutches but she was severely worn down at this point. Still she went for a spear but Dunn caught her and powered her up connecting with the “Dunn and Dusted” (powerbomb lungblower). Dunn makes the cover and gets the three count.
Winner: Scott Dunn
Jackson: What a debut from Scott Dunn here tonight!
Judd: That’s a big man with a lot on his mind when it comes to accomplishments in SAP.
Chris: What do you think his cheat day meals look like?
______________________________
Altoona, Pennsylvania, has been completely fair to the action presented by SAP Wrestling which will readily be able to showcase their talents across the world. The special monthly episode will host the quarterfinal matches of the Keystone Cup and up next on the card, a triple threat match involving three major talents will happen. However, this quarterfinal triple threat features a feud that harbors two individuals who absolutely do not like each other but with the third who can capitalize on it. The transitioning into the backstage common area presents Aleks Parker, SAP's experienced backstage personnel, in front of the camera view in professional attire with the microphone in hand.
Aleks Parker: "Ladies and gentlemen, introducing at this time, she's one of the three competitors in the first quarterfinal matches for tonight, "The Legacy of SAP" Serenity Holmes!
There's a strong positive reaction from the Pennsylvania audience, especially Serenity's view on the camera for the interior of the Adler Arena and across the broadcast. Abnormally, Serenity's demeanor tends to be more intensive than in the previous interview and Aleks has seen the difference in the atmospheric environment.
Aleks Parker: "Serenity Holmes, congratulations on your victory over Petra Vasquez that brought you into the quarterfinal match tonight. There's been a lot of social media back and forth between you and Barbara Strong. Tell us, why do you have animosity against Barbara Strong?"
Serenity's eyes close for a second and she exhales trying to contain the violent behavior scratching through the surface. Aleks places a hand on her shoulder to reassure her the interview is safe and she can voice her concerns.
Serenity Holmes: "It's simple Aleks. Barbara Strong is what every woman who a narcissist is. It all started when I saw what she tweeted to Cecile which I will not repeat out of respect for her. She made a comment that was unnecessary after playing like a coward only to send her little manager to help her win and advance into the tournament. Do you really believe that Barbara is all about herself without any impure intentions? No. She wants the spotlight on her, all the attention and she'll be a conniving bitch to get it which I do not appreciate. I can't stand Barbara and that's why I want to beat her. She's a fake, phony bitch who pretends she's the victim but the moment you let her guard down, she's going to unleash her claws and dig it into your soul."
Aleks's eyes were widened from the explicit language by the teenage contender. She could feel the very essence of rage emulating from the young athlete but Serenity was ready for all possible outcomes involving Barbara. Aleks continued on.
Aleks Parker: "But speaking of her manager, Kelly Richards, are you also prepared that she may be involved in your match? After all, a triple threat has no disqualifications."
A slight chuckle escaped from Serenity's lips and it evolved into a laugh. Aleks seemed a little concerned about the particular response but Serenity snapped.
Serenity Holmes: "That's what I want Aleks! I want Kelly to get involved because I heard she's also getting into the ring as well. Now Mr. Quinn can't fine me nor hold me accountable for anything she does. I gave her a warning that if she gets involved, I will have no problem beating the ish out of her too. She may have gotten away with that the first time but lightning doesn't strike the same place twice."
The audience within the interior of the venue praised Serenity's vigilance and awareness of the possibility. She smiled listening to the applause but quickly reverted to a more focused standpoint as Aleks continued on with the interview.
Aleks Parker: "So you're saying that Barb-"
Immediately, Serenity interjected herself.
Serenity Holmes:" I'm saying that Barbara Strong is a fake bitch! That woman is the most disgusting person in SAP Wrestling. What can she say about me, Aleks? I'm brought here because of my father? I was given opportunities because I'm a legacy? I'm dating a man ten years older than me even though I'm eighteen? I want her to pull out all the insults so that she knows I can throw it back at her too even worse. That's her weakness. She likes to attack anyone who can't defend themselves but the moment you say something back to her, she has to run to Mr. Quin victimizing herself so she could get more attention from the men. Barbara Strong is an attention-whore seeking to do whatever it takes to be ahead but this time, it's not going to work. I'm going to break her face in half and give any cosmetic surgeon a chance to prove their worth because the reconstruction would cost SAP every little cent!"
But before Serenity could walk off to her scheduled entrance, there was one more thing Aleks forgot to mention.
Aleks Parker: "But Serenity, you're forgetting one more thing. There's a third participant in this match that could win as well. Lexie, do you have any plans for her?"
Serenity stopped in her tracks and looked over her shoulder with a smirk on her face.
Serenity Holmes: "Collateral damage."
The audience was more intrigued and potentially intimidated by that response. Aleks stepped back a few paces and watches Serenity venture off ahead to her match that was scheduled to happen in the near future.
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Dylan Shepherd vs. Luca Di Paolo
Luca was actually here for this one but when it came time to lock up he wanted no part of it. He quickly went to the ropes and ducked his head out asking the ref to keep Dylan away. The ref asks for space which annoys Dylan. Luca gets back in the ring but when Dylan comes at him Luca quickly drops down and leaves the ring.
Luca stops to argue with some fans around the ring which allows Dylan to drop down and get behind Luca. Dylan taps him on the shoulder and Luca brushes it away to continue arguing with the fan. Dylan does it again and once again Luca brushes it off. This time Dylan slaps him on the shoulder. Luca turns around and eats a right hand from Dylan.
Luca clutches his face and yells at the ref. He then yells at Dylan. He stands up and says this isn’t worth it and then makes a b line for the curtain. The ref and Dylan look at each other confused. Dylan rolls back in the ring and the ref rings the bell and declares Dylan the winner.
Winner: Dylan Shepherd
Jackson: What did we just see?
Judd: Cowardice.
Chris: Hey I don’t blame him. Would you want to get punched in the face like that?
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Barbara Strong: But why can’t we have another Bonding With Barbara? The last episode was generating RATINGS until Cecily had to ruin it. Why is it always the ugly ones who ruin the good things?
Kelly Richards: We’ll get back to Bonding with Barbara, I promise, but first we have serious business tonight. As your agent, it’s my job to keep you focused. And tonight you aren’t wrestling one opponent, you’re wrestling two.
Barbara Strong: I know. I know. Serenity who wants to send me back to the streets, whatever that means. And Lexie. But, as if the world was completely oblivious after what you did at the last show, I’m being trained by a FREAKING LEGEND! Kelly, everything you did as a multiple time champion in Mexico is incredible, but it will pale in comparison to managing me to the KEYSTONE CUP!
The former Mexican wrestling legend, Kelly Richards smirks and crosses her arms as Gregory Howlett walks into the frame with a smug look on his face. The last time we saw him, he was victorious, but a bit unsure of himself.
Kelly Richards: And where have you been, mister big stuff?
Gregory just shrugged, acting cool for the camera as the two of them looked over at him.
Gregory Howlett: Oh you know, just scoping out the competition. Having a walk around the building, stopped by catering, got a quick selfie with some fans outside…you know, living my best life. I took your advice and did some stretching before the match tonight, would be silly not to listen to such a legend, huh?
Before Kelly can reply, Barbara rolls her eyes and interjects herself.
Barbara Strong: Okay Gregory, we know you’re finally feeling like a big boy after learning all these new tricks from Kelly, but I believe I was talking to her right now. I have a very important match against not one but….
Gregory rolls his eyes in return.
Gregory Howlett: TWO people, I know, I’ve heard about it all week. We trained together, remember? Or were you too worried about how your own reflection looked in the mirror?
Barbara Strong: Being a champion is about everything. The complete package. The presentation, the performance, the talent…everything. Have you learned NOTHING?
Kelly steps between the two and puts a hand on each of their chests and grins.
Kelly Richards: I love it. You both are so competitive. That’s amazing. But you’re taking it out on the wrong people. We’re a team. A faction. Comrades. Homies. Whatever the cool kids are saying nowadays. You BOTH have matches to advance in, and hey? If we’re lucky, it’ll be an ALL US finals. But I think you both have learned so much over the last few weeks. I love the fire, but again, save it for your opponents, not each other. As a matter of fact….
The manager for both Gregory and Barbara gets a mischievous grin on her face.
Kelly Richards: I want you both to say something nice about each other. We have to support each other, okay? So Gregory, why don’t you start? Say something nice about Barbara.
Gregory sighs at Kelly’s suggestion but he knows well enough than to argue with her right now, she was in charge and truth be told she’d already done so much to further his career that he almost felt obligated to her, like Brady to Belichick.
Gregory Howlett: Okay, something nice about Barbara…well I’d just like to say that I think you have a great immune system to have recovered from that terrible illness you had earlier in the week.
Barbara snaps back almost immediately without missing a beat.
Barbara Strong: And I think you’re finally growing into that big head of yours! I think I even saw your hat fitting you at the gym the other day. Major accomplishment!
Kelly shakes her head at the pair of rookies before getting serious.
Kelly Richards: You both think this is funny? How funny will it be if Salem kicks your ass tonight, Greg? And Barb, how will the ratings look if Serenity follow through on her threat and has you begging for mercy? What if the both of you are eliminated from the Keystone Cup after tonight because you were too busy thinking of jokes to spout at each other that you weren’t focused on your opponents?
Greg. Salem is SUPER ACCOMPLISHED. She’s been a champion in the best places in the world, and Kelly, Serenity also knows what it’s like to be a champion. She’s a current women’s champion elsewhere AND she was RAISED by a wrestler. I haven’t even mentioned Lexie who is yet another threat. I believe in you two, but you need to believe in yourselves and focus on what matters.
Richards turns to Gregory and shakes him by the shoulders.
Kelly Richards: Are you ready for Salem?
Gregory was postured like a six year old being lectured on not sharing his toys with the other children.
Gregory Howlett: Yes, I’m ready for Salem and I think all of our training leading up to tonight should speak for itself. And you’re right, we should be working as a team and propping each other up rather than poking fun at one another. Barbara, I admire your competitive spirit and how much work you put into everything you set your mind to, not just wrestling.
He perks up, stretching out his shoulders a bit and getting hyped.
Gregory Howlett: And Kelly you’re a great mentor and I look forward to learning so much more from you, we’ve got this Keystone Tournament on lock!
Barbara nods in agreement, finally seeing her new mentor’s point, especially after the revelation from her training partner Gregory.
Barbara Strong: He’s right. We have busted our butts the last few weeks, and I want to be taken seriously. I’m so much more than just a pretty face, and Gregory is as determined as anyone I’ve ever seen. We both have the look of a champion. We’re both winners. We’re BOTH advancing. And Serenity is the one who’s going back to the streets, for the record!
The three of them laugh as Kelly grabs their heads and playfully pulls them in and under an arm each.
Kelly Richards: Yay! Now that we’re all on the same page, lets get these wins and then Pizza. Gregory’s treat! Sound like the proper motivation?
Gregory Howlett: My treat?!?
He looks like he wants to dispute that order, but decides against it.
Gregory Howlett: Okay, okay…but first we have to get these Ws!
Kelly Richards: Then what are you waiting for? You're up first. Show Barbara how it’s done!
Barbara actually walks up behind Gregory and rubs his shoulders a bit while leaning close to his ear.
Barbara Strong: Go out there and be BARBARA STRONG! Get it….Strong?
The three of them laugh, but the fact remains: Both rookies now have a former champion teaching them the ins and outs of the ring. Would the rookies be able to advance further into the Keystone Cup? Only time would tell!
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Jessica Matthews vs. Freddie Florentino
The bell rang and these two began to circle each other as they exchanged words. The two locked up and began a chain exchange that saw the more experienced Matthews get the upper hand. Freddie takes a minute to roll to the outside and catch a breath. Meanwhile Jess motions for him to come back.
The two now meet in the ring and began to throw hard strikes at each other. They trade European uppercuts and hard chops as they try to wear each other down. Freddie chops Jess into a corner and then snapmare’s her out of it and gets a running start before driving a knee into the back of her head. Florentino then pulled Jess up to quickly hit the “Riverside Ride” (fireman’s carry double knee gutbuster). Freddie went for a cover but only got a two.
Jess was able to work herself back into the match after a shotgun dropkick followed by a corner shining wizard. She then pulled him out of the corner and climbed to the top looking for the “Silver Moon Shockwave” (630 Senton). Jess leaps from the top rope but Freddie turns himself that once Jess lands he grabs her and locks on the “Flowmission” (dragon sleeper with body scissors). Freddie cranks on it hard. Jess tries to find an escape but can’t in time as she fades away. The referee breaks the hold and declares Freddie the winner.
Winner: Freddie Florentino
Jackson: Freddie picks up his first win in SAP while Jess now has her second loss in a row.
Judd: Freddie might be cocky but that was a smart move at the end there that got him the win.
Chris: Freddie was already a winner, have you seen his girlfriend?
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“Eliminated in the first round… and now this…”
Backstage of the Adler Arena, the Eternal Paladin wanders aimlessly in her ring attire. She’s barely aware of one of the cameras observing her. Her right hand uses the wall for support while her left arm cradles her ribs. Naturally, her Captain America Shield is braced on her right arm. Her golden blonde hair is a mess and her blue eyes are dim.
JESSICA MATTHEWS: “Hannah Hartman… I have nothing but respect for the young lady. She did well. I wish nothing but the best for her. But Freddie Florentino…?”
She shakes her head out of disgust.
JESSICA MATTHEWS: “I’m better than that. Losing to that dummkopf? I can’t believe this… Ugh.”
Her fingers draw away and she closes her right hand into a fist. She drives the side of it against the wall she’s been using to support herself and grits her teeth.
JESSICA MATTHEWS: “This is unacceptable! I’m supposed to be better than this. I… I have to turn this around…”
Drawing breath only hurts a little now. Still, she’s tired. Without warning, the ceiling lights begin to flicker on and off. Jessica looks up and stares at the flickering lights. Her eyes grow wide for a brief moment before she slowly closes them. Her fist pulls away from the wall and she sighs softly.
JESSICA MATTHEWS: “...It’s time to go home. There’s still so much to do.”
Opening her eyes, she begins to make her way out of the arena. It appears she doesn’t intend to stay and watch the rest of the show. After she makes her way through the exit, the lights stop flickering and they stay on like nothing happened. The camera then changes perspective.
______________________________
We cut backstage to Lexie Smith who's got various flavours of icey drinks. The colourful syrupy icey drinks are very vibrant as the camera casually goes over these drinks with post production camera panning.
Joining Lexie, feeling very antsy as she can't take any of the drinks is Honey who has just seen Turning Red, and happens to have a red panda shirt and cap on.
Honey: Cousin Lexie! Can I try just one of these drinks! Please!
Honey says strained and looking for that sugar fix. Lexie puts her two hands down so she's not shaking them at her.
Lexie: Relax, Honey. After I make my point.
And Lexie turns to the camera. Dressed fully ready to compete in her one piece with knee pads, elbow pads and boots all designed to be sleek and be a royal blue and black colour scheme.
Lexie: Which is to show how I'm against two people in this Keystone tournament. Twitter poll says Barbara's likely to win, they've never been wrong?
Honey: They haven't?
Honey says watching Lexie and extending her hand out for the ice blue cup, but Lexie puts it down.
Lexie: Where as our other girl. Holmes. She's a bit of a mixed (bag) drink. She's got a dash of Spirit And Pride going on. But she's got a slab of Action Wrestling in there. Now when it comes to these drinks, as I believe it'll come to the winner of this tournament. SAP's winner will be exclusively signed here. No Mango mishmash with grape.
Lexie puts a cup top on that drink and hands it off to a hand off screen. Honey's eyes go big and cute like a certain kitty as she sees that drink go.
Honey: Mango Grape Slushy…
Lexie: No watermelon and blue blast.
Honey tugs on her hair as she sees all sorts of people starting to put the caps on the drinks and take them from the table.
Honey: There's going to be none left….
Lexie: And there'll be no 'Strong' flavour like this awful lime flavour. Gradually we fall until we get to the one flavour the company is known for. The one superstar SAP will be known for I should say.
Lexie holds up the strawberry flavoured one, smirking behind it.
Lexie: No mixed blended focus or Strong. Fight it out on Twitter, girls. Because while you've been exercising those thumbs, I've been pushing myself further than ever as that's what the company needs, expects and I deliver to it. I've got two opponents, I've won several triple threats before.
Lexie then shrugs and passes that strawberry flavoured one to Honey, who makes a slight YES grunt under her breath.
Lexie Smith: I'll do it again. See you out there.
______________________________
There's a rustling, like a cellophane wrapper that evokes instant nostalgia – it's like that crinkly wrapper on those red and green strawberry candies your grandma used to keep in her purse along with that baggie of those gross Scotch mints. That sound continues for a few seconds before the darkness resolves into a low-budget black-and-white view of the backstage area of the Adler Arena. That Greek Grappler Lex Collins moves into view, sitting down on top of one of the rolling equipment boxes with his back against the wall.
LEX COLLINS: If the Internet polls’re to be believed, I’m gonna go the distance – not that I put all that much stock into popularity contests. The whole thing, popularity I mean… has been this sorta anathema to me since high school. I got invited to parties, included in the stuff the jocks did ‘cause I was on the fringe there, dabbling with just enough extra curriculars to keep the prying eyes otherwise at bay. Most of the time, though, was spendin’ lunch hours in the auto shop, up to my elbows in the greasy guts of some jalopy. Never really outgrew that aversion to social interactions.
He shrugs, pulling one knee up to his chest.
LEX COLLINS: Many moons and many therapy sessions later, I’ve got labels… everything wrapped up in a neat little bow and compartmentalised, filed away as the cause an’ effect of mental illness. It goes in cycles, usually I can recognize a turn coming on and I ghost. Silence is easier to explain – guess that’s what I’m goin’ around sideways into saying. Appreciate the votes, I do. Don’t get me wrong. I just wish I could rise above the muck to beat my chest an’ crow about those foregone conclusion accomplishments.
He picks up an unopened can of Pepsi from beside him, flicking the tab with his thumbnail a few times – the sound is annoying, repetitive and he seems to be using that to pull himself back on track. Finally, he sighs and shakes his head.
LEX COLLINS: I’ve been everywhere – that’s what Hannah Hartman said. I dunno if that’s good or bad. Sometimes I worry there’s too much shit packed in my head that it all gets scrambled ‘round.
He lets out a rueful chuckle.
LEX COLLINS: I feel like when you die, when the life flashes before your eyes, it’s a rewind – you get to watch your fondest memories in reverse ‘til all the people you love are strangers. I believe that ‘cause I’ve been there. Saw how insignificant all this shit I let consume me in those early years truly was and I guess that’s hindsight at its finest. Like when you finally have a fuckin' breakthrough, that's what happens. The worst times, they roll back an' you can see all those branches, all those paths you coulda gone down at the time if it wasn't for that goddamned tunnel vision.
That crooked and sardonic smirk curves his lips as his shoulders twitch in another idle shrug.
LEX COLLINS: Do I wanna win? Prove those faceless supporters out there in the aether of the Internet right? Yeah, I guess I do. Deep down – I always want that. I mean, there ain't no green on me no more. The ROOKIE tag was burned up in the fuckin' atmosphere almost a decade ago. Time flies, man. Really does. Been everywhere. Done it all, more’n once. So now's time to hang somethin' else above my head. Another sign, blockin' up the scenery... heh. What's it gonna be? Failure. Usurper. Asshole. Liar. Fraud. However my critics wanna spin it an' it's just another shadow – tell me I'm doin' it all wrong an' I'm gonna throw my head back an' laugh 'cause this' MY story I'm writing in bloodshed. My own. Theirs. Don’t matter when it’s for a good cause. So, put another sign up there over my head. Don’t bother me none.
He pauses for a second, letting that thought steep.
LEX COLLINS: You're gettin' me at a very weird time in my life. I'm not quite in the present or lookin' towards the future. I got one foot in each an' I'm just doin' my best to keep livin'... fuckin' L-I-V-I-N, y'know?
There's a definite McConaughey drawl to that before he chuckles softly.
LEX COLLINS: The shadow's gone an' where it's going isn’t where I'm headed. Set my sights on finer things and the one thing ringin' true above all else is how I spent half a lifetime in the lion's mouth, waitin' to be eaten like a chump. Overcoming that's the victory'at means the most to me. Winning this Keystone thing’s just gravy. Makes it all a bit more palatable, y’know?
He shrugs and hops down off the box, flashing index and middle finger at the camera for a moment.
______________________________
Keystone Cup Quarterfinal Match
Barbara Strong vs. Serenity Holmes vs. Lexie
Once the bell rings Barb and Serenity are at it and swinging, leaving Lexie standing on the outside of it. Lexie goes to intersect but both Barb and Serenity shove her off. Lexie gets back up and this time nails a dropkick that sends both women spilling to the outside. Lexie rolled out after them and the three began to brawl around ringside.
The three wind up back in the ring and Serenity and Lexie start to go at it. The exchange ends with Holmes landing “Dancehall Party” (Kobashi Chops followed by Roundhouse Kicks into the chest then ended by an Exploder Suplex in the corner). Lexie sits herself up but then in comes Strong with the “Beautiful Back Up (As the opponent is in the corner, Barbara runs and at the last second turns around and rams her backside into their chest). Lexie then rolls out to the floor.
With Barb and Serenity now left with just each other they immediately go back to slugging it out. Once Serenity starts to take the upper hand Barb is quick to rake her eyes. Barb then grabs Serenity by the hair and slams her to the mat. Barb then takes a lap around the ring to trash talk which allows Holmes to get back to her feet. Serenity rushes Barb and nails her with a lariat. Serenity then heads to the ropes but Kelly Richards who had snuck down to ringside grabs the legs of Holmes and pulls her out of the ring. Barb gets up to her feet with a smile after seeing Kelly and raises her arms up in victory. What she doesn’t see is Lexie sliding back into the ring as she leaps up and lands the “O’Hagan Crusha” (RKO)! Lexie makes the cover and gets the three count.
Winner: Lexie
Jackson: Lexie advances to the semi finals of the Keystone Cup!
Judd: Strong and Holmes were so focused on each other that they let the wildcard take the victory.
Chris: Barbara was just robbed. They should give her this win.
______________________________
We find Aleks Parker backstage.
ALEKS PARKER: Ladies and gentlemen, with me at this time… Salem Cartier!
Salem steps up wearing a dark purple kimono robe emblazoned with a gold dragon on the back, which she shows off to the camera. She’s gnawing on a candy cigarette for comedic effect. She takes it out of her mouth and taps the non-existent ash on the ground.
SALEM CARTIER: Hey AP, damn glad to be here.
She gives Aleks a wink.
ALEKS PARKER: Right… so um. This week you carry on in the Keystone Cup Tournament after dispatching Claire Lichfield in the first round.
She took a couple of “puffs” on the cigarette.
SALEM CARTIER: Yeah, you know… I’m sure a certain sect out there was betting against me to win that match. Like I was gonna go down like Brittany Renner after an NBA game. Pfft. Look at me, I’m the tits! I only trust other witches as far as I can throw them; and that’s just what I am, a solitary ma’am. She should be used to a brooming, no big deal.
She ate the cigarette, then produced a pack and pulled another one out. She offered one to Aleks.
ALEKS PARKER: Oh… no thank you, I’m trying to quit. So tonight you face Greg Howlett.
Salem nodded.
SALEM CARTIER: That’s right… right here in Toon Town… Altoona, PA! And for god’s sake don’t eat the “pizza”. Listen up Mr. Howlett… any relation to Wolverine? Tee-hee. Don’t matter, I’m Weapon Hex. Now I know that you are a fellow Canuck, Greggy-kins… so that’s kinda cool. You got that going for ya, which is nice. But tonight? You can be oh so polite and shake my hand when I beat you, bub. Because what do you really bring to Spirit And Pride? Let’s see…
She holds up her hand and checks her “notes” and then “extinguishes” her cigarette in her palm before tossing it aside.
SALEM CARTIER: Oh yeah, an ex-football player that is too cocky for his own good. Man, talk about a unique entity in this great sport…. You’re gonna revolutionize the game! Nah man, you’re kinda square dawg… you could use a bit more pizazz in your life. But you’re in luck, because that’s where I come in. I can put you on the map and make you a talking point of SAP. By you beating me? Pffft, hardly. I’m talking the polite Canadian thing to do and have a good match with you. You can have a little bit of shine even when you’re staring up at the lights. You’re Bad? Like Weird Al, I’m Even Worse. Tonight we burn the house down in Altoona and a witch will walk through the fire and the flame, marching on in this tournament. Smoke ‘em if ya got ‘em.
She tosses the pack of cigs at the camera and departs, leaving Aleks to only shrug holding the mic.
______________________________
Keystone Cup Quarterfinal Match
Hannah Hartman vs. Lex Collins vs. ARCADe
The bell rang and all three circled each other, wary of the others. Hartman struck first with a shoulder block to ARCADe followed by a back heel kick to Collins. She then hit the ropes and went for a lariat on ARCADe but he ducks it. Hartman rebounds off of the ropes but eats two elbows from Collins and ARCADe. ARCADe then followed that up with a dropsault on Collins landing on Hartman. The ref made the count but only got two.
The three then each took turns trying to neutralize one opponent so that they could take their time on another but the three just kept finding counters for each other. ARCADe was showing himself to be quite the escape artist. Lex’s experience was allowing him to stay a step ahead of his opponents. Hannah’s strength was giving her opponents tons of trouble. Still Hannah was able to catch ARCADe with her “Frost Warning” spinebuster but Lex broke the count.
The three kept exchanging shots and moves with no one really getting the upper hand until Hannah managed to hit ARCADe with a huge release deadlift German. She quickly got up trying to go for the pin but was nailed with “Bricks” (hard right hook) by Lex that dropped her. Lex made the cover and got the three count.
Winner: Lex Collins
Jackson: Lex Collins moves on to the semis!
Judd: It’s always good to see the old dogs still pushing forward in this business.
Chris: She’ll be lucky if she’s not drinking her food through a straw.
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Brendan Samuels: Stake yer claims, make yer points, praise yer own name, be the Face of SAP… I be The Wrestling.
Came the voice of Brendan Samuels, attired in an obnoxiously sea blue Hawaiian shirt and a pair of white chinos. His eyes were cast to the nearest television screen, images of the latest match in SAP replaying in front of him ahead of his second main event since the company reopened it’s doors after a long hiatus. The Irishman grinned at the camera, have turning towards the camera.
Brendan Samuels: Ten names left, ten names that lay claim to the Spirit and Pride National Wrestling Championship. Ten names that want to reach the very top in the company were the pride, honour, and love of professional wrestling mean more than anything else. Ten names that will want to be remembered forever, to be called out by fans across the country, an’ across the great blue oceans. Ten names that will scream out loud over the seas, but only four will progress.
He stated, the former SAP National and North American Champion bearing a smug chin on his handsome features as he stroked his chin, the confident iceman piercing a hole in the lens with those frozen blue eyes of his.
Brendan Samuels: The luck of the draw be somethin’ that many be talking about. Two singles matches, two triple threats. Some be believing that an advantage has been played for some, disadvantage for others. Two competitors will be eliminated from the
Keystone Cup without having a fall against them, an’ that may be a tragedy. But with the numbers, ye all knew that be a possibility when it came down to it. But for them in singles action, there be no excuses… Even if some make them already due to a fan vote.
Brendan wagged his finger, as the light glistened off of the Liberty Pro United States belt on his left shoulder, and the Legacy Pro Tag Team belt on his right. Crossing his strong arms across his broad chest, The Navigator of the wrestling seas continued to speak on in that smooth as silk Southern Irish accent of his.
Brendan Samuels: Bianca Reed, I know ye well. A product of RISE, one of the finer graduates from their ranks. Trained by the likes of Arkia, Aurora, Andreas… And known to be the favourite student of the late, great Prince Kamijo. A member of SeeD, a rebel group along with me sister Caintigern, Nariko an’ one of me closest friends, Anastasia Starling. A woman known for her skill an’ ferocity in the ring, a woman who is part of a proud combat sports family, a woman with some of the fiercest determination in the sport.
That grin got wider on the face of the County Cork native after speaking on his Quarter Final opponent in the Keystone Cup, taking a moment to praise the woman he was set to face later on in the night. Giving a pause, he looked to both his championship belts, and then to the SAP logo that was behind him, before continuing on with just a dash, the slightest dash of fury.
Brendan Samuels: An’ yet she be also one of the most universally hated in the sport by her peers. A woman who even has clubs dedicated to bad mouthing her. A woman who seems to be embracing the poison she be labelled. A woman who is easily irked by the voice of the people when it is against her. It be a different side to her from the one I have met before, an almost careless disdain for the opinion of the public, an’ a willingness to group anyone who not be in the same bracket all together. Be that as it may, an’ be who ye be, but dinnae talk of being underestimated when ye cannae do nothin’ but talk down to those who would put ye down.
Samuels turned to his right, picking up his latest incarnation of his now famous pirate themed flag, draping it over his shoulders as he gave one final sign off.
Brendan Samuels: I respect what ye have done on the canvas, Reed. Though I dinnae need to respect ye words, nor do I ask ye to respect mine. But when the bell rings, the flag is raised on high an’ ye stand face to face with me… Ye’ll realise that the words dinnae matter at all. An’ all that matters is the contest, the sport, the spirit, the pride… The Wrestling. An’ ye will know my name.
______________________________
“Classy” Bianca Page is putting her sunglasses on as she is walking backstage of the Adler Arena when Aleks Parker comes walking up to Bianca.
Aleks Parker:Ms. Page, Ms. Page may I get a word?
Bianca lowers her sunglasses to the end of her nose, looks at Aleks, and cracks a smile.
“Classy” Bianca Page:Sure, why not?
Bianca slides her sunglasses back over her eyes.
“Classy” Bianca Page:You know, I just met with the Quinn men. They are a very good looking bunch.
Aleks Parker:Um…Yes?
“Classy” Bianca Page:It was merely a pleasant observation but I digress because I have a man waiting for me at our home.
Aleks nods her head.
Aleks Parker:Well we have seen over the last week since you officially signed to become a part of the SAP you have been counting down the days till your first appearance on SAP Television.
“Classy” Bianca Page:I felt the need to put the entire SAP roster on notice that I am not here to play around or play second fiddle to anybody. I don’t care if it is someone who I have a lot of unfortunate history with like Malaya Diyosa or someone else on the roster who I have no idea who they are, much less work with them. Like everyone else I want to be the SAP National Champion but I will also be the franchise of this company. The person that will take SAP to a whole new level of excellence it has never experienced before. So when I end up ruffling your feathers and I undoubtedly will anger you because I know your deep dark secret that you realize you aren’t worthy of breathing the same air that I do.Just know that it is alright. And I will make up for your many shortcomings. It is just part of my superior charm. Think I am just blowing smoke all you want but it won’t change what you know in your heart of hearts is true and won’t be able to stop my ascension to the top of SAP.
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Keystone Cup Quarterfinal Match
Salem Cartier vs. Gregory Howlett
The two circled each other to start with the trash talk heavy. One would have to assume that Howlett was trying to work some mind games to try and balance against Salem’s experience. The two locked up and Greg used his size advantage to back Salem into the corner. The ref called for a break and Howlett at first backed off but then went for a right hand but Salem ducked it.
Howlett turned around to take an arm drag and Salem immediately started to work on the arm. Greg was able to fight free but anytime he started to go for anything Salem was right back to targeting the arm. Howlett was still able to get offense however as he connected with a combo of a snap suplex, jumping elbow drop, and a sidewalk slam. Greg went for a cover but only got a two.
He pulled Salem up and whipped her into the ropes and went for a lariat but Cartier ducked it and then rebounded off of the ropes and hit Howlett with a dropkick right to the shoulder of the arm she was already working on. Greg went down and Salem quickly went for a cross armbreaker. It looked like Salem may have had it at first but Howlett managed to lock his hands. He folded up Salem for a cover causing her to break the hold.
Salem was able to hit Greg in the gut with a hard knee and followed that up with an ipponzeoi and right into an arm bar. Howlett worked back to his feet and landed a few forearms that sent Salem stumbling back. Howlett rushed at her but she side stepped him. When Howlett turned around his was greeted with a surprise “New Hampshire Handshake” (high velocity leaping elbow strike to the jaw). Salem goes for the cover and gets the three count.
Winner: Salem Cartier
Jackson: New Hampshire Handshake out of nowhere!
Judd: Salem was playing her cards right and knew when to lay them on the table.
Chris: That has never happened to me any time I’ve been to New Hampshire.
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Keystone Cup Quarterfinal Match
Brendan Samuels vs. Bianca Reed
The bell rang and the two met in the middle of the ring. The crowd was hot for this one as the big fight feel was real. Bianca was the first to attack as she stomped on the foot of Brendan making him cringe in a way that lowered his head, she followed with a punch to his face and then a hard chop to the chest. Samuels took a few steps back trying to get back to his game plan but Reed already had one of her own.
Bianca kept the pace fast. It was evident that Samuels was being thrown off of his game and the crowd wasn’t sure how to react to it. Bianca was sticking to her kicks and high flying abilities. Even landing her “Falling Star” (meteora) but was only able to get a two count from it. Bren knew he was in a rough spot and he needed to change things quick. Bianca went for another high kick but this time he was able to catch it and hit a nasty dragon screw.
Bianca immediately grabbed at her knee and let out a scream. Samuels rushed over to go for a pin but Reed knew what she was doing and pulled Samuels in for a small package. It was close but Brendan kicked out before the three could be counted. The two got back to their feet and and Bianca swung at Brendan trying to keep the pressure on but he hooked her arm and spun her locking in a crossface chicken wing. From there he quickly connected with “Mac Lir” (Millennium suplex) to get the three count.
Winner: Brendan Samuels
Jackson: What resiliency from Brendan Samuels here tonight!
Judd: Bianca Reed is a top notch competitor and this one honestly could have gone either way, but kudos to Samuels for sticking through to the end for this.
Jackson: The semi finals are now set with Lex Collins, Salem Cartier, Lexie, and Brendan Samuels!
Judd: But who will face who?
Jackson: I’m sure that’s something we will found out in the coming days but we will see you all on April 11th!
Judd: Unless Chris has to stay home and make cheese.
Chris: I work in the office!