Post by Avery Quinn on Aug 5, 2019 9:17:29 GMT -5
The cameras open up sweeping the PPG Paints Arena revealing a sold out crowd who are more than ecstatic to be here for the first SAP show in over a year. The camera also swoops over the brand new stage and tron before moving down the ramp to the brand new ring. The maroonish ropes are highlighted by the black canvas with the SAP logo right in the middle of it.
The scene then transitions to show the familiar faces of the SAP announcers Jackson Hall and Judd Kover who are full of life and energy as they sit near the ring at the brand new commentators table.
Jackson: Hello everyone and welcome to SAP wrestling!
Judd: Man it feels great to hear you say that!
Jackson: It has been way too long but everyone we are back and we are ready for action. Tonight you will see some of your favorite SAP stars return to our ring for the first time in over a year. We will also see plenty of new faces who are sure to be looking to cement themselves as some of the best this company has to offer.
Judd: This truly is a great roster mixing old and new with everyone aiming for gold and glory. You can just feel the excitement in this building and you could really feel it backstage.
Jackson: I couldn’t have said it better Judd. So enough of us let’s get this show started!
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We cut to the backstage area where Adam Webb is sitting on a production crate. He’s already in his ring gear and looks ready to compete. He gives a small smile to the camera when he sees it.
Adam Webb: Tonight is my first chance to show the SAP roster, the SAP brass and most importantly the SAP fans what I can do in that ring. You know, I’ve had a good amount of success in pretty much all the companies I have signed with. Be it Sixth City, Vengeance, Southside or most recently Millennium. But none of that matters now, none of that matters in that SAP ring. The number of titles or wins on my record mean nothing here and now.
He lets out a slight sigh.
Adam Webb: Much like SAP, I’m on a reboot as well. I made some poor career and personal choices and I’m on the upswing of those. I think that’s why when I heard SAP was coming back, I knew I had to sign here. The talent and the fans here… It’s more about the soul of the sport than almost anywhere else. This place just makes you feel good to be a professional wrestler.
He cracks a small smile.
Adam Webb: Now, my opponent tonight, she’s also new to SAP but she’s also new to the wrestling world. I have to say that it’s an honor to share her first match with her. This is something that she’s going to look back and remember for her entire career. So I’m going to make sure this match is amazing and most importantly memorable. Memorable for not just Brax and myself, but for the fans and everyone else. I want this match to set the bar in this reboot of SAP. So I’ll see you out there Brax.
Adam smiles again as he slips off the production crate and starts down the hallway.
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Adam Webb vs. Brax Clova
At the sound of the bell, Adam and Brax circle up for a moment before locking up. Adam pushes Brax to the corner and backs up as the referee splits them up. But Brax connects with a big head kick that staggers Adam and follows it up with a jumping knee that drops Webb to the canvas. She makes the cover but only gets a two count.
Brax pulls Adam to his feet and sends him to the ropes, he comes back and ducks her clothesline and hits the ropes again. Webb comes back and Brax kicks out Adam’s leg, kneeling him, and she follows up with a shining wizard. Brax makes another cover but Adam again kicks out. She pulls him back to his feet and hits him with a series of chops that leave Adam out in the corner. Brax charges in and hits a jumping knee and follows it with a bulldog out of the corner. This time, Brax locks in an armbar, pulling back at Webb’s arm.
Adam fights the hold and finally gets his feet on the bottom rope. Brax lets go, but as soon as she stands up, Adam kicks out her leg and she catches her neck on the ropes. Adam gets back up and hits a hard soccer kick to the midsection of Brax, doubling her over. He pulls her in and drops her hard with a brainbuster. But Webb pulls Brax to a seated position, hits the ropes and drives a knee into her jaw before making the cover. Right before the three, Brax got her shoulder up to break the count.
Webb looks a bit frustrated that he didn’t get the win, but gets back on Brax with a side headlock, torquing on her neck. Brax is able to fight back to her feet, throwing some elbows to break the headlock. She pushes Adam into the ropes and when he comes back she looks to back body drop him, but Adam flips over her back, landing on his feet. Brax turns just in time to get hit with a superkick to the jaw that staggers her. Adam then levels her with The Punch Line (Roaring Elbow). Webb steps onto the ring apron and goes for his Wicked Webs (Springboard Shooting Star Press)! Webb connects and makes the cover for the win!
Winner: Adam Webb
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SAP Wrestling cuts backstage to the locker room area, Bailey Archer is sitting on a bench lacing up her Nike's, already in her ring gear and her hair up in pigtails. She has her iPhone on her knee and the phone is ringing on speaker.
PIZZA HUT: Thank you for calling Pizza Hut this is Tommy. Is this delivery or carryout?
BAILEY ARCHER: Yo Tommy! This is delivery but you see I have this wrestling match coming up soon. So I need it delivered to me as soon as I come through the curtain after winning. Make sense?
PIZZA HUT: I am not sure we can do that...
BAILEY ARCHER: I think you can! I mean I don't know how long my match will be... But between you and me, Tommy, I think I can handle the guy pretty quick! When I am done though I will be starving and a hot large pepperoni stuffed crust pizza will be perfect! I will put your name on the security list so they know that Tommy from Pizza Hut is my guy.
PIZZA HUT: Uh...
BAILEY ARCHER: Glad we got this to work. It is the SAP Wrestling show. My match is coming up quick too so get that pie in the oven! I cannot wait! If you hurry you can even watch me in action. I will dedicate a kick to his gut for you too.
PIZZA HUT: Ok but...
BAILEY ARCHER: Bye! Thank you!
Bailey hangs up and jumps to her feet before the guy can even get another word in. She walks over, looking in the mirror with a grin before heading out of the locker room ready for action.
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Backstage we see Aleks Parker as she is waiting outside the locker room.
Aleks: Hello everyone, first and foremost welcome back to SAP! I am so excited to be back and I couldn’t wait for this day to come. Right now we are waiting for Luca Di Paulo to make his way out of the locker room before his match with Bailey Archer.
Then as if by clockwork Luca Di Paulo comes out from behind the door. His bronzed body glistening in the light.
Aleks: Luca! Can I get a few words with you before your match up?
The golden eagle rolls his eyes and adjusts his entrance vest.
Luca: I guess so. Just be quick about it.
Aleks: Thank you so much. First you were one of the previous SAP roster members who chose to come back to the company. What made you want to return to SAP?
Luca: They doubled my contract.
Parker just kinda gives him a blank stare for a short moment.
Aleks: Was there anything else?
Luca: Not really. You should see my contract.
The arrogance was just flowing off of him.
Aleks: Alright, well how are you feeling heading into your match with Bailey Archer?
Di Paulo looked down at Aleks.
Luca: Who?
Aleks: ...Bailey Archer.
Luca: Exactly Alex. No one knows who she is. No one cares who she is. This whole crowd they know who I am. They know I’m the most beautiful face in SAP. As soon as I step through that curtain everyone in attendance will be wishing they had me. Wishing they could take me home. All Bailey does it take pictures in her stupid glasses while thinking she’s something attractive. She should go back to playing video games in her parents basement and avoid the light of day like the loser she is.
Aleks: Well, thank you for your time Luca. And my name is Aleks, not Alex.
Luca: Yeah, no one cares.
With that Luca walked off.
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Bailey Archer vs. Luca Di Paulo
The bell rang and the two locked up. Archer seemed to get the better of jockeying for position despite the height difference which caused Luca to break it and tell the ref that she was pulling his hair. Archer denied it and the two locked up again. Once more Luca broke it telling the referee that she was pulling his hair. Archer called him a liar and then went to lock up with him again but he dropped down and rolled out of the ring.
The crowd booed Di Paulo and Archer didn’t seem to happy either as she leaned over the top rope to scream at him. The referee got her to get off the ropes and while they were talking Luca reached under the ring and grabbed a bottle of baby oil and doused himself with it before sliding back into the ring. Archer went to lock up with him and slid right off.
Luca then began to light her up with a series of chops. Di Paulo backed her up into the corner and then backed up and got a running start looking for a corner splash but Archer moved. Luca was so greased up that he went sliding over the top rope and went crashing out to the floor. Bailey wasted no time and rolled to the outside and grabbed the disoriented Luca and rolled him into the ring. As Luca came too he never saw Archer coming when she connected with “Reckless Abandon” (corkscrew stunner). Archer hooked the leg and got the three count.
Winner: Bailey Archer
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Stood somewhere backstage at the PPG Paints Arena, ahead of her match later, is Selina Metzger, and she begins by introducing herself, for the benefit of anyone who did not see the press conference earlier. She is pleased to be part of SAP’s restart, and she plans to make a positive first impression in her debut, against “The War Queen,” Leah.
Selina acknowledges that Leah will have a similar aim to herself, in what is also her SAP debut, and she looks forward to the war that Leah claims she will bring. She remarks that during the press conference, Leah appeared to tell everyone that she embodies what the words “spirit” and “pride” mean, but Selina declares that anyone who wishes to stand a chance of defeating Der Übermensch will need to possess more than just those two traits, as she very much personifies her nickname.
While Selina does not expect this match to be easy, she does expect to win. She is quick to assert that she is not going to underestimate Leah though, adding that she is clearly disciplined, which is evident from the shape she is in. However, while Leah might be in good shape, she is not in über shape, like Der Übermensch.
Selina then holds up her left hand, so that the tattoos on the sides of her fingers are visible to the camera; her middle finger has “Ruthless” tattooed on it, while “GAME OVER” is tattooed on her ring finger. She finishes by saying that Leah is going to be the first person in SAP to get a taste of how ruthless she can be. “Because tonight, when Leah sets foot in the ring with me, it’ll be Game Over for The War Queen.”
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Selina Metzger vs. Leah
These two weren’t playing around and as soon as the bell rang they began to exchange blows. Leah came hard but the size and strength of Metzger quickly overcame and Selina then whipped Leah into the ropes. Leah managed to duck a clothesline and then quickly nailed Metzger with a roundhouse kick to the back of the head.
Metzger went down to a knee and Leah went for the ropes. The war queen was looking to hit the kneeled Ubermensch with a big boot but Selina saw her coming and hooked the leg and connected with a capture suplex. The two continued to go back and forth. Leah was trying to wear Metzger down while Selina was trying to break the war queens spirit. It seemed like neither was possible.
Leah connected with a series of Muay Thai knee strikes to the body of Metzger to wear her down. She then went to lift her up for “Drop the Bomb” but Metzger wasn’t having it. She lowered her center of gravity and then landed a number of hard clubs to the back of Leah. She then lifted her up for what looked like a powerbomb but then using her sheer power she popped her up into the air and then caught her in position to land the “Elbe Valley Driver” (Death Valley driver). Metzger made the cover and got the three count.
Winner: Selina Metzger
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Cue scene. Open scene. Any derivation of a generic opening scene to make certain people mad. The scene, of course, focused in on one Aella Foley. Roughed up, beat up, and possibly high on painkillers due to her long list of recent work related injuries, she was currently eating Grenade’s Carb Killa White Chocolate Protein spread out of the jaw with a spoon like the goddamn animal that she was. What? You never said fuck it and just went to town on a jar of peanut butter or nutella? No? Well, fuck you, she was. She was goddamn enjoying it too until she saw the camera man and sighed, trying to speak with a mouthful of the spread.
Aella Foley: “Fa’ FUHCK’S THAKE!”
Pause. She took a drink from her water, and made a hard swallow, looking more than a little annoyed.
Aella Foley: “For Fuck’s Sake. I was eating.”
As the Camera man backed away, she snapped her fingers, gesturing for him to come closer.
Aella Foley: “Nah, you’re not leaving just yet. Look. I’m tired, I’m beat the fuck up, but I’m not going anywhere, aye? I’m coming to raise the standard of ultraviolence for SAP after just getting a master class in it from the rising stars of the Deathmatch community. I mean, when you get attacked by a naked opponent with a box cutter, it kind of changes your perspective, don’t it?”
Amused, she licked the spoon, again, before plunking it back in the jar of protein spread ike a fucking unwashed savage.
Aella Foley: “Sparrow’s going to be the target of me raising that bar. Whether I win or not, i plan on pushing him further than he’s ever been pushed, in ways he’s never been pushed. He trains under a dominatrix but I’m going to show him the actual meaning of pain by introducing him into a world of it. That ring’s an operating theatre and I’m the fucking surgeon, to steal often quoted lines by the wrestlers that’ve come before me. Watch me out there, this is going to be a bloodbath one way or the other.”
Winking at the camera, she went back to eating her protein spread, straight out of the jar as the camera left her side, fading out.
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Mighty Sparrow vs. Aella Foley
This was truly going to be a battle of styles as the kick heavy Sparrow was going against the grapple heavy Foley. The two circled each other with Sparrow hitting some quick leg kicks to try and keep Foley at bay. However when Sparrow went for a high kick Aella was ready and shot an ankle pick on the plant leg.
Once on the ground Foley started to look for a leg lock but Sparrow wasn’t having it. He used his free leg to kick at her in between dragging himself to the ropes. Just as it seemed like Aella was going to have a heel hook Sparrow reached the ropes. He stood up slowly and stomped on his leg a little to assess if there was any damage and then got on.
Sparrow then hit the ropes with enthusiasm. Trying to use his speed to catch Aella off guard he was able to catch her with a rana that sent her to the mat. Sparrow quickly scaled the ropes and tried to connect with a missile dropkick but Foley saw it coming and moved out of the way. Aella thought quickly and headed for the ropes herself. Rebounding and connecting with “Galloglaich” (running knee to head of rising opponent). Sparrow looked dazed and managed to hook an arm over the bottom rope as he went down forcing the referee to make Foley back off.
Aella was now stalking Sparrow. Just waiting for him to get to his feet. Still dazed he finally made it up and Foley sprinted across the ring looking to hit FAUGH A BALLAGH (striking spear) but Sparrow saw her coming and leapt into the air hitting her with a double stomp right on her back driving her into the mat. He quickly went for a cover but Foley kicked out. Sparrow shook his head in disbelief but quickly went to grab Foley in what turned out to be a mistake. Foley grabbed hold of Sparrow when he reached for her and locked in “Kingslayer” (rolling kneebar). With the ropes nowhere in sight Sparrow had to tap out.
Winner: Aella Foley
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Backstage, the camera shows “DA #TROLL GUY” Mariano Fernandez meeting with his DA #TRIXTEAM partner, the Prime Girl Trixie. He’s already wearing his wrestling gear, with this leather jacket hanging from his shoulders, and she is wearing a rare red Prime Girl top to match her red shorts. The shirt was snipped at the side to give a ladder design and Trixie's hair was full of volume and lightly curled at the ends. She also flaunted some new red ring boots to fully show off her SAP Spirit and the bright red lipped smile confirmed she was happy to be back.
FERNANDEZ: “SAP is here one more time, mang, and with it, here we are again. Back to where it all began, and back to what made us what we are.”
TRIXIE SMITH: "BACK where #DaTrixTeam started. Long, long before we became multi-tag team champions we had our first one on one match up here and formed our team. Now, tonight, here at The Reboot we're taking on the new team who want to be "the best tag team in the world."
Trixie looks over at Manny with a raised eyebrow as she gauges his reaction to her quoting their opponents.
TRIXIE SMITH: "They sound like a team with a plan, which is good don't get me wrong… however…"
For his part, Manny throws his hands and shakes his head.
FERNANDEZ: “They’re nowhere near as seasoned and decorated, and overall as GOOD, a team as ours, mang. But I don’t question their courage to come at us. Unfortunately for them, though - this is the ONE place in the world that we’ve come to find success on - and here at The Reboot, that’s gotta start with them.”
He places a hand on her shoulder.
FERNANDEZ: “After all - it’s only right we reunited at last with a victory, right mang?”
TRIXIE SMITH: "Chica... and totally!*
She says pulling out of her pocket two pairs of aviators when it is usually Trixie who wears them for her entrance.
TRIXIE SMITH: "I mean my tag team partner did defeat your teacher, Miles. Manny, at 4CW Adrenaline #88, pinned Mark and that was almost a year ago… and Manny's gotten better and better since then. 4CW Pride Champion, 4CW Tag Team Champion. I've defeated Mark Storm in Legacy Pro last year.”
FERNANDEZ: “And likewise Trixie has only gotten even better since then - you see her now as the NVR Women’s Champion.”
TRIXIE SMITH: Awww, thank you. We BOTH have improved since we've faced your teacher, in the singles division and in the tag team division.
FERNANDEZ: “And we’ve returned to SAP, right to the VERY beginning, to give the both of you a piece of that knowledge and skill the both of us have acquired, mang. Only, it will be in the form of your first L in this here company.”
He gives the camera a Trollface.
FERNANDEZ: “But don’t blame us for that shit, mang. Use it to improve where your teacher has failed. Use it to drive you forward as every L we’ve had has driven us up to this point. And THEN, some other time, in some uncertain future… then MAYBE you’ll beat us one day. But as SAP’s reboot is on tonight, so too is the return…
Mariano looks at Trixie in the eye, she returns the gaze, and both look at the camera, yelling in unison.
TRIXIE SMITH/FERNANDEZ: “... of DA #TRIXTEAM!”
And then Trixie hands off her second pair of aviator sunglasses over to Manny just as her Cousin Mimi comes into the picture.
MIMI SMITH: Heyyyy, guys.
Mariano’s eyes open wide, having been caught with his hand on Trixie’s shoulder, so he takes it back and looks away, his face blushing as he addresses her.
FERNANDEZ: “Oh, uh. Hey yo. How you doing, m…”
But before Mimi can respond, he takes a deep breath.
FERNANDEZ: “I mean, chica?”
MIMI SMITH: "I was just looking around and saw you guys chatting and exchanging looks and thought I'd come over. Trixie looks good in her new red gear she had made specifically for SAP, doesn't she, Mariano?"
Mimi says ironically biting a red vine. Mariano’s face goes a deeper red, but he nods.
FERNANDEZ: “I-I mean, yes she does, mang.”
He gives Trixie a look, and by the dumbstruck expression on his face, it is obvious he agrees.
TRIXIE SMITH: "Well thank you, Manny."
MIMI SMITH: "Hmmm..."
She smirks ever so slightly as she holds up her red vine and closes one eye, very clearly comparing Manny's face to the red of her vine candy and Manny knew it.
FERNANDEZ: “But, uh - what brings you here tonight, chica? Besides coming to watch us, of course.”
He takes his hand to his chin, somewhat uncertainly.
MIMI SMITH: "Well, apart from DTT, that's you guys, facing S2K, I'm here to see the SAP International Tournament and to make sure you guys aren't being attacked by anyone. Have you been attacked?"
Trixie shakes her head, and so does Mariano.
MIMI SMITH: “You're welcome. That'll be $10.”
And she holds her hand out to Mariano. Though his nose furrows in a comical expression, he reaches into his jacket and hands her the bill.
FERNANDEZ: “Well, uh- thank you for the well done job, chica.”
MIMI SMITH: "Thank you very much. Now go get 'em Button."
He looks at the camera and raises his eyebrows, not entirely convinced. But then he turns back to her, and this time it’s a friendly smile.
FERNANDEZ: “And hope you like the tournament!”
MIMI SMITH: "I'm sure the tournament people will do great."
TRIXIE SMITH: "I think our match is up next."
Trixie says, showing she's calm under pressure and puts on her shades. Immediately, Mariano follows suit, and bangs his right fist into his left palm.
FERNANDEZ: “Let’s get this shit done, chica.”
Mimi Smith then discreetly puts some cheese into Manny's jacket pocket as a callback to Manny's first prank on Trixie, disguising it with a pat on the butt.
MIMI SMITH: "Get 'Em Button!"
Mariano leaps very startedly forward, gone from red to pasty white.
FERNANDEZ: “EEEEEEEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!?”
He turns wildly towards Mimi, but before he can do anything else, she points forward, to Trixie walking.
MIMI SMITH: Don't keep my Cousin waiting, Button.
Mariano turns his head to Trixie, then back to Mimi.
FERNANDEZ: “Miiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiimiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii…”
MIMI SMITH: “That’s my name, don’t wear it out.”
But nevertheless, he goes to catch up with her, as the camera cuts to the ring.
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Da Trixteam vs. Shoot 2 Kill
The crowd was firmly behind SAP favorites Da Trixteam and they were more than happy to have the support. The two played to the crowd but Richardson and Watson weren’t enthused and told the two it was time to get to business. Manny and Richardson started the match. The two locked up and Richardson showed off his technical prowess early and was able to hit a succession of chain moves before Manny was able to grab the ropes.
Manny just nodded at his opponent and the two circled each other. Richardson went to lock up and Manny then rolled forward with a koppu kick that caught Richardson flush and sent him to the mat. Fernandez hit some quick offense before tagging Trixie in. Trixie came in with a head full of steam and went for a spinning heel kick but Richardson managed to duck it and then quickly tagged in Watson.
Shoot 2 Kill then spent the next few minutes working over Trixie with quick tags and combination moves. Trixie was starting to look worse for the wear and Manny was in the corner trying to rally her on to get to him. The tides finally turned when Watson hit the ropes and rebounded but was caught with a modified fastball punch from Trixie that dropped him. Both hit the mat and the crowd was going nuts as they were pulling for Trixie to make the tag.
Trixie was able to tag in Mariano who came in on fire. Dropping Richardson and Watson with a series of punches and kicks culminating with him hitting “The Gadfly” (step up enziguri) on Watson. Trixie sent Richardson over the top rope to the floor with a clothesline and then her eyes met Manny’s. The two wasted no time and connected with “Da Prime Kick” (double shining wizard). Manny made the cover and got the three count.
Winners: Da Trixteam
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The Reeds vs. BGTL
Two of SAP’s most tenured teams were eager to get this started as all four of them began to brawl as the bell was rung. The referee had trouble gaining control as none of them wanted to listen and just continued to beat the hell out of each other. The brawl soon spilled to the outside. The referee again called for them to break it up and get back into the ring. Yet none of them seemed to listen. The referee did all he could to get these four to listen and restore order but he just couldn’t do it and finally called for the bell. Security had to be called to pull them all apart.
Winners: No Contest
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Cartier sits in a high hotel room over the industrial landscape of Pittsburgh, PA. Old steel mills loom against a dismal, grey skyline. As she watches airplanes carve curlicues of exhaust contrails through the drab firmament, she drags from a Black n' Mild cigarillo and watches the puffs drift by her window, obscuring her reflection in the dirty glass.
💎CARTIER💎: "Been a long, long time SAP. Almost feels like destiny to be settin' foot back in a Spirit an' Pride ring after all this time. I still remember the first time I ever earned a payday from a pro wrestlin' match, under that SAP banner, like it was just yesterday… but it also feels like a lifetime ago at the same time. So much has changed in my life. I ain't the inexperienced rookie I was back in January of 2018… I been all over the country, across the ocean, won championships by myself an' as a team wit' SILK. Made the quarterfinals of the QuagCup... I been in a damn death match, y'all. I done stuff I would had never anticipated. But I always wondered what coulda been had SAP kept goin' back then. I had a little hot streak on my side, won that battle royal, had me a marquee matchup wit' Eli Carlson… as someone who had only been in the business a couple months at that time that was a huge deal, know what I'm sayin'?"
A cloud passes in front of what little sun is peeking through the haze of the rust belt sky, dropping a curtain of darkness over Cartier's window.
💎CARTIER💎: "I had though I would never get that chance to answer that 'what if…' but here we are. You know as soon as my phone rang wit' the offer to return I was all over it. I need to get back to these roots. An' to start off by sharin' a ring wit' someone I respect an' someone I was good wit' from the start? Someone who always had my back when I was a nobody just gettin' started? That's what this business can give you that you ain't gonna find nowhere else. Things can come full circle but still be totally different at the same time. People we looked up to one day we lookin' eye to eye wit' the next. Me an' Jess? We gonna put on a show for all the people here in Pittsburgh, we gonna show the whole world that SAP is back. Whoever come out on top wit' that TV Championship gonna have earned it for sure. We here as friends, that's a fact, but when that bell rings it's all business. That's all there is to it, honestly. Now let's get it."
Cartier blows another puff from her Black, then smiles out the window as things fade away.
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Television Championship Match
Jessica Matthews vs. Cartier
The crowd was excited for this match, caused as a result of the final X championship match at the last show before the reboot. The two quickly locked up and Cartier pushed Matthews up against the ropes. The referee called for a clean break and it looked like one would be given at first before Cartier nailed Jess with a forearm. Matthews wasn’t having it and went right after Cartier, landing a series of European uppercuts.
Jess then darted for the ropes but Cartier followed. As Matthews rebounded Cartier drove a hard knee right into her gut causing her to go spilling out the middle rope to the floor. Cartier followed Jess to the outside and picked her up and went to Irish whip her but Jess reversed it and whipped Cartier right into the ring post. Matthews rolled into the ring as the ref began to count. Cartier made it in at 17.
Matthews then went on the offensive but Cartier wasn’t backing down and kept going shot for shot with the former X champion. Matthews then tried to change direction and went for a more technical based attack. Jess went for “Guardian of the Enterprise” (cross armbreaker) but Cartier was able to clasp her hands and managed to get a foot on the rope to cause a break. As the two stood up Cartier rocked Mathews with a discus elbow followed by a backdrop driver.
Both women were starting to look worse for the wear. Matthews was still a little rocked from the last exchange but managed to catch a charging Cartier with a high kick. Matthews followed it up with “The Dixon Arrow” (swinging ddt). The crowd was behind her and Matthews saw the title within reach. She climbed the top rope and went for the “Silver Moon Shockwave” (630 Cannonball senton) but Cartier moved out of the way! Jess landed hard and Cartier watched her every move. As Jess groggily made it to a knee Cartier dashed forward connecting with “Empire State of Mind” (Kinshasa). Cartier made the cover and got the three count.
Winner and *NEW* Television champion: Cartier
Cartier was handed the belt and quickly began to celebrate before exiting the ring. The referee was checking on Matthews. When Jess got back to her feet she received an ovation from the crowd which seemed to bring a smile back to her face. She wove out to them but this was cut short as a man in a hoodie slid into the ring and quickly attacked her from behind.
Jackson: What is going on? Who is this?
The man pulled off the hoodie revealing Joey Ortega who received boos from the crowd and responded with a middle finger.
Judd: Joey Bloodbath showing up to cause trouble? Yeah, who would have guessed that.
Judd said it sarcastically as Ortega laid stomps down on Matthews. He then pulled her up and tossed her into the corner connecting with a repeated chop and punch combination. Ortega then pulled her out of the corner and connected with a high angle jumping double arm ddt. As Matthews was laid out in the middle of the ring Ortega called for a microphone.
As he was handed one the crowd only began to boo louder. All it made him do was smile.
Ortega: You can boo all you fucking want. It ain’t gonna stop a fucking thing. No to prevent any douchebag from asking me as soon as I cross that curtain “Why Joey why?”, I’ll just tell all you pieces of shit out here and save myself the fucking time. I want to take all you mother fuckers back to July of 2016. See it was right after this dumb fuck laying on the mat right here won a tag match with the man who was smart enough to leave her but not smart enough to not marry her in the first fucking place at the first SAP show. It was supposed to be such a joyous moment. Then who showed up to ruin it? This piece of fucking garbage right here.
Ortega pointed at himself and the crowd let him have it with insults.
Ortega: See shit tends to come full circle. It would have been better had she won tonight and then I came in here and beat the shit out of her but I’m still ok with how it turned out. So once again Jess came into SAP thinking she was hot shit. Thinking she was a somebody. The only kind of somebody she is, is the kind of somebody you wish you could forget. So that’s what I’m going to do. I’m going to kick her ass right out of SAP’s front fucking door for the world to fucking see.
With that Ortega dropped the mic and exited the ring with the medical team passing him on their way to the ring as he was headed up the ramp.
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National Championship Match
Tyson Gregory vs. Cailey Carter
Before the bell sounds, Tyson charges Cailey and tosses her between the top and middle turnbuckles, her shoulder connecting with the ring post. The official calls for the match to start and Tyson stays on Carter, stomping away as she falls in the corner. Gregory picks up Carter and drops her shoulder first onto the top turnbuckle. He then walks away and argues with the fans at ringside as the referee checks on Cailey. Tyson turns back just as Cailey is back to her feet and kicks him with a big roundhouse kick.
Gregory stumbles and uses the ropes to hold himself up. Cailey stays at him and kicks him hard in the spine. Tyson staggers again before Carter hooks him with a snap DDT. But she’s not done with Tyson as she picks him back up, hits him with a jumping knee followed by an Enzuigiri before making the cover, but only getting a two count.
Cailey doesn’t seem down though as she lines up Tyson, waiting for him to get up. Just as Tyson gets to his knees, she connects with a superkick to the jaw, dropping him to a seated position. Cailey goes for a shining wizard but Tyson moves just in time and rolls Carter up but only for a two count.
Both get to their feet but Cailey strikes first with a knee to the chest of Tyson that sends him into the nearby ropes. He stumbles forward and she goes for The Daybreaker (Fireman's Carry Cutter) but Gregory starts to hammer away on the shoulder he focused on earlier, making Carter drop him. Tyson is quick to his feet and gets Cailey up and drives her down with The Vanish of Hope (Cradle Tombstone Piledriver)! Tyson makes the cover and gets the three!
Winner and still champion: Tyson Gregory
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The camera cuts to backstage where Tyson Gregory, fresh off his championship defense, is stomping around with the SAP National Championship belt draped over his shoulder. He is loudly humming “Hail To The Chief” as he arrogantly walks around. He sees the camera on him and he smiles big.
Tyson Gregory: Ladies and gentlemen! STILL your National Champion! Tyson Gregory!
He then gives himself a cheer and gives the camera a bow.
Tyson Gregory: As if there was any doubt in anyone’s mind that I wouldn’t win. I will hand it to Cailey though, she actually walked down to the ring and ready for her public execution with a lot of pride in her step. But she knew, I knew and everyone in this damn building knew that she was just the lamb coming to slaughter.
Tyson holds up the SAP National Championship towards the camera.
Tyson Gregory: This right here is the greatest and grandest Championship in all of SAP! I get that I wasn’t in the main event but that was just me being a humble and gracious champion and letting others get some of the limelight that I bring shining to SAP. Besides, what kind of main event would it be with that absolute destruction I put Cailey through?
He gives a smirk to the camera.
Tyson Gregory: Now if you excuse me… I’m gonna go victory bang my extremely smoking hot wife, Ally.
He gives the camera a wink before heading down the hallway, celebrating.
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Alexs Parker gets the camera shot as the show switches backstage. She awaits at the door of Venus LeCavalier. Seeming a little impatient but retaining her politeness, she reaches over to knock on the door. When she goes to try, it opens sharply, almost causing her to lose her balance. Luckily, she was trained better than that and retrains her balance. Venus walks out, holding her trusty tranquilizer rifle, which takes Parker back.
Alexs Parker: “Venus, what is with the—“
Venus cuts her eyes at the interviewer.
Venus LeCavalier: “If you don’t know what this is for, then you don’t know me at all.”
Alexs nods a bit, a tad embarrassed.
Venus LeCavalier: “It’s to secure my victory, of course.”
The snippy answer does cause Alexs to arch an eyebrow.
Alexs Parker: “Won’t that get you a DQ?”
Venus once more hardens her glare, which now makes Alexs take a good step back.
Venus LeCavalier: “Not if you get caught. Even then, announcing it and carrying it like this may draw my opponent and the referee into a false sense about it. They may get focused on it, and that may lead to my victory as well. There’s many functions to carrying around this weapon beyond what your brain processed.”
Venus turns to walk away, but Parker makes a step to stop her.
Venus LeCavalier: “What is it?”
Alexs Parker: “I have more questions?”
The Most Honest Woman in Wrestling sighs and keeps going.
Venus LeCavalier: “When you do your research, I may fathom answering your questions.”
Yet, she stops on her heel, turning her head.
Venus LeCavalier: “You get one, though. I can’t afford to be entirely rude. Though it may be warranted, I don’t want any negative press about me. You get one question.”
Alexs takes a moment to ponder on what exact one she wants to ask. When she finds it, one can almost see the lightbulb.
Alexs Parker: “Is there anyone you’re looking forward to facing if you win tonight?”
Venus blinks at the question before turning around.
Venus LeCavalier: “A true competitor doesn’t look forward to those who will sooner try to impede her progression. They look forward to seeing how easily they can make them move out of the way.”
With the answer left for audience and interviewer alike, Venus LeCavalier moves onward out of camera view. When it trains back on Alexs, she simply stares at where Venus went. She nods and silently moves onto someone a little more receptive.
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International Championship Tournament Match
Venus LeCavalier vs. New York CruZe
The match started out at a lighting pace when the two sped around the ring looking to get an advantage over the other. CruZe used his incredible speed to try and land some moves but Venus’ gymnastics background gave her what she needed in the agility department to avoid this moves. However it was a double edged sword for both as CruZe’s speed allowed him to get out of the way of her attacks.
Things finally changed when CruZe was able to catch Venus with a leg lariat. Once she hit the mat NYC was quick to lock in a half crab and try to keep the momentum on his side. Venus lifted herself up and pulled her free leg back and placed it on the lower back of NYC and pushed him forward causing him to break the hold. She quickly got back to her feet and saw NYC coming right at her after rebounding off the ropes. She was able to sweep his legs out from under him putting him in a seated position and followed it up with a cartwheel into a basement dropkick.
The two went back and forth as the match went on. CruZe had a near fall after catching Venus with a picture perfect dropkick. While Venus connected with “LeCavalier United” (running double knee smash to seated opponent in corner) that nearly saw her pick up the victory.
CruZe battled back though using his arsenal of kicks to wear down Venus. Enough to the point where he thought it was time to end it. CruZe went for “New York State of Mind” (springboard koppu kick) but LeCavalier was able to roll out of the way. She then headed for her tranquilizer gun in her corner but the ref cut her off when she had it and grabbed it. However that might have been what she wanted all along. As the ref was busy tossing the gun to an attendant at ringside Venus drove a knee right into the groin of CruZe. She then quickly grabbed his arm and rolled him to the mat locking in “Sheer Heart Attack” (hoverboard lock). As the ref turned around Venus was wrenching on the hold and NYC didn’t have a choice but to tap out.
Winner: Venus LeCavalier
______________________________________________________________________________
We open up outside of the PPG Paints Arena. It’s the middle of the day before the show tonight, so the fans aren’t filing in or hanging around out front of the arena. Standing out like a sore thumb due to his attire though is a man who will compete in the first round of the SAP International Title Tournament tonight, Sean Isaac Leonard Kennedy. SILK has black and purple Fendi sneakers on his feet, white fitted Fendi jeans, a black Fendi t-shirt with purple and white designs splattered across it, his signature three round framed Fendi glasses and his hair perfectly dooed upwards with a purple, white and black head sash across his forehead, just under his hairline. Noticeably absent is all of his Titles from the other promotions he competes in. SILK stands in front of a bronze statue of Pittsburgh Penguins legend Mario Lemieux which towers above him in all of its glory.
SILK: “Le Magnifique”.
After a momentary pause he continues.
SILK: “The Magnificent”.
SILK continues staring towards the sight of the hall of famer, Lemieux, splitting two defenders - Rich Pilon and Jeff Norton on December 20th, 1988. Not only did Lemieux himself carry the “Le Magnifique” moniker but so did this statue that was raised in his honor back in 2012.
SILK: That’s what he was and that’s what ya boi - Sean Isaac Leonard Kennedy is everywhere he goes. Spirit And Pride put up one of the biggest bags they ever had to a potential signee and instead of grabbin’ it for the sake of the bank account, ya boi took it for the opportunity it presented.
He turns his head towards the camera, as if checking it has the right side profile angle on him and then turns back to face the statue once more.
SILK: Not only did it present the Georgia Gigolo the opportunity to be paid and the chance to be great but there was a void to be filled. As I looked up and down the roster I saw that it lacked that one thing ya boi could bring - that extra “oomph”. The aura, the encounter, the dynamicness that only ya boi brings to not only the ring but to a company as a whole. Haters live to run they mouth ‘bout me while fans can’t fathom this industry without me. I ain’t phased, that shit comes with the territory of bein’ great. Just ask Riley.
Now fully turning to the camera with the statue hovering high behind SILK, there’s no smirk or white teeth brightly lighting up the shot, just a serious and determined look.
SILK: You live to breed hate girl on anythin’ it anyone that stands toe to toe with you or your boy toy. Admirable, if only you were good enough to back up that hate with enough talent that would give you that kinda right but guess what? You ain’t that great. No matter how many times he smashes you, your in ring ability ain’t gon’ increase or improve Riley.
A shrug comes from SILK casually.
SILK: You ran your mouth to me a while back and then ducked out when I put your ability to question. You started up with me again, tryin’ to twist one of my boys sayin’ I’m gon’ beat some dude and his girl will leave with me after into some misogynistic narrative that was a bigger reach that Hakeem Olajuwon‘s wing span and when you got called on it? Hit me with a block like the beta personality you are cause the narrative you tried to spin was like your wrestlin’ career is - trash. I mean look at what you’ve done and then look at what I’ve done, there’s not even a comparison. You’re a breakup away from bein’ a server at Denny’s, let’s be real here.
SILK takes a seat on the edge of the statue’s base, folding his hands together with his arms resting on his knees as he speaks again with a calm tone laced about his voice.
SILK: Tonight Riley, I punch my ticket to the next round at your expense. The time for talk, as little as you’ve done so far, is over. The time for action is upon us. Then again, all of those chatter and we all know what’s gon’ happen - you’re gon’ take that L and act like this all never even happened, as if it was some fleeting dream you’ve forgotten as soon as you hit social media to post your next selfie. Thing is, I plan on makin’ enough noise with this match that you can’t forget Riley. But don’t worry, a loss to ya boi will just give ya another thing in common with your puppy love that y’all can pillow talk over.
Standing up, SILK places his hands in his pockets and turns back towards the statue once more.
SILK: My run in SAP will be magnificent but my International Title win in the end?...well, that’ll be “Le Magnifique”.
SILK winks through his shades and walks forward out of the camera’s sight as it stays still and eventually fades into the bronzed face of Mario Lemieux.
______________________________________________________________________________
Backstage in her locker room, Riley Savell is hanging out before her match. Keeping Her company is her boyfriend Cosmo Cooper, Riley sits on his lap as he takes a seat on the bench, she smiles a little and runs her fingers through his glorious blonde locks. The pair seem oblivious to the camera as they lose themselves in one another, establishing a standard of PDA as they share a long slow kiss before Riley, rolling her eyes finally glances at the camera.
Riley Savell: Let me guess, you’re here cause you want me to talk about my opponent tonight and his shitty little press conference? Well, bad news. I don’t have anything to say about that waste of energy. He did exactly what I knew he would do and that’s spin shit. Acting like I’m nothing more than someone’s girlfriend. So that’s exactly what you’re getting.
As she says this, Riley wriggles a little on Cosmo’s lap and that draws a small groan from him, sweeping her eyelashes with an innocent look Riley leans her head close to his and drops her tone to a stage whisper.
Riley Savell: As if being your girlfriend isn’t something in and of itself. Girls everywhere long to be exactly where I am, they’re lining up to take my spot. Unlike the loser I’ll be facing tonight, nobody in this room has ever pestered someone into a date.
Bringing her attention back to the camera she smirks.
Riley Savell: I mean really, how pathetic do you need to be that you hound people into dates with you? Your attitude towards matches seems to be your attitude towards twitter and wrestling in general. How is anyone supposed to act like they’re interested in someone who drones on and on and on… just to force you to listen to them talk.
How absolutely dire… WE would never need to do something like that. Unlike the sizzle without the steak I’ll be standing across from tonight? All I have to do is show up and people pay attention. I am the draw, I am the match ad he should be grateful he’s even sharing a ring with me, let alone getting to be on the other end of my first victory here in SAP.
Another smirk crosses the lips of the cocky Riley as she enjoys her seat in Coopers lap with another little wriggle. Tracing her fingers over his abs through his shirt, Riley lets out a satisfied sound.
Riley Savell: After all, it’s me who they made big noise about signing here. I’ve been all over the world and everywhere I go, I make a statement. Hell even in IYH I was hand picked to lead a team to victory and secure the spot of ownership for the company. Don’t get it twisted, I’m a mainstay in this sport and that championship belongs to me.
SAP wants a champion that people will want to see, they want someone repping this company that people care about. And, whether it’s posting pictures of my hot body on twitter or sitting here, addressing everything but the loser in the ring… people pay attention. Love me or hate me, you can’t pretend not to know who I am. And trying to discredit me is beyond pathetic.
But then, that perfectly describes him doesn’t it?
Riley turns her attention back to her boyfriend, taking her time to enjoy another long kiss before the pair talk back and forth between each other, their conversation has nothing to do with the match tonight. Her arrogance continues as she wastes air time just to make small talk with her boyfriend, really not caring about truly addressing her match.
Letting time tick past, Riley keeps the conversation going for some time before she finally looks back to the camera, rolling her eyes she takes on the same board tone she used at the press conference.
Riley Savell: You’re still here?
Waving a hand at the camera she lets out a small laugh.
Riley Savell: You’re excused.
______________________________________________________________________________
International Championship Tournament Match
Riley Savell vs. Sean Isaac Leonard Kennedy
Both competitors had scathing looks on their faces as they came out of their corners after the bell rang. It was entirely clear that there was no love loss here and this was going to be a war. The two went to lock up but Riley quickly broke it to give a knee to Silk’s gut followed by a thumb to the eye. As Silk went stumbling back into the corner the referee reprimanded Riley for her tactics. She could care less and as she went for Silk he came right out of the corner with a spinning back fist that floored Savell.
The crowd cheered and Silk took it in with some theatrics. As Riley was getting up Silk hit the ropes and then connected with a sling blade. He went for the cover but Savell kicked out. Silk kept on the pressure and quickly placed her in the “Trick Turner” (sharpshooter). Savell screamed out in pain but wasn’t giving up. She pulled herself over to the bottom rope and forced a break.
Silk wasn’t planning on letting of the gas and grabbed Riley by an ankle and started to drag her back to the center of the ring. Savell though swung around with her free leg and caught Silk right in the jaw sending him back into the ropes. Savell got to her feet and charged at Silk who gave her a back body drop that sent her to the apron. Riley followed it up by connecting with a high kick that caught Silk and sent him to the mat. She then went to the corner and untied the top turnbuckle cover. Silk was now back up and then got a running start and caught Savell with a bicycle knee kick that sent her crashing from the apron to the floor.
Silk went to the outside after her. The two brawled around the ring with Silk getting the better of the exchange. Riley wasn’t done though in any way, shape, or form as she rammed Silk into the guardrail. She then rolled into the ring by the corner and laid there while the ref began to count. Silk made it back into the ring at seven and went to grab Riley who was now on her knees but she pulled him into the corner, sending him face first into the exposed turnbuckle. Silk was stunned and Riley rolled him up for a pin, while the ref wasn’t looking she placed her legs on the second rope for extra leverage and got the three count.
Winner: Riley Savell
______________________________________________________________________________
Backstage Elijah Carlson is dressed and ready to go for the action that will come later in the evening and I know, you’re probably thinking oh no here comes another backstage segment where the person just drones on and on about their match and how they’re the best. And, well, it’s true that that is almost what this was going to be. But then Eli spotted a mess of blonde hair around a nearby corner and his whole attitude shifted. Not to mention that you all already know that Eli is the best and that he’s going to win his match, right? RIGHT?! Of course you do. Anyway, back to what really matters and that’s the SAP World Champion coming around the corner to find one Leela Watts with a bright smile on her face, talking to counterpart Danny Rizzo. Immediately, Eli rolled his eyes.
Elijah Carlson: “Really? Get a room. What are you some kind of voyeur?”
Immediately Rizzo tensed, ready for a fight like he always seemed to be lately. If you don’t know about him check out Valor Pro. You’ll get to see a cow actually carrying a championship belt, it’s wild. Anyhow, Leela responded politely but firmly.
Leela Watts: “Do you always have to be so mean, Eli? Can’t you just mind your own business?”
Slamming to a halt, Eli took a few steps back and meet her gaze.
Elijah Carlson: “Oh, right. Apologies. I’m sorry that the last thing I want to see on my show is two people making out like high schoolers in the hallway. Well guess what. I’m the principle and I say that shit isn’t going to fly around here. Clean your act up. Besides, you’ve got a big match with big momma Blaise coming up. I would think you’d be more focused on that.”
Leela’s cheeks flushed for a moment but she straightened against the assault on her character and focus and responded sharply.
Leela Watts: “And I think you would be more focused on not losing your championship after only having it officially for one day.”
Rizzo, moving to stand beside her, offered a grin that said he wasn’t about to be as polite as Leela was being.
Danny Rizzo: “Yeah… would be terrible if your championship reign ended.. Prematurely. You can take medicine for your other problem, but that one… not so much.”
Eli’s expression soured immediately and he took a step closer to the two.
Elijah Carlson: “You’re walking a fine line, cow-man. It would be terrible if your own foolishness came back to bite your little barbie now, wouldn’t it?”
A hard stare was shared for a moment longer before Eli nodded his head, taking the silence for them understanding the warning he had just sent as he walked off the rest of the way down the hallway.
______________________________________________________________________________
International Championship Tournament Match
Blaise Fader vs. Leela Watts
The crowd was split for this one as it started with alternating let’s go chants. Both had smiling faces and they slapped hands in the ring before locking up. Blaise pushed Leela into the corner and gave a clean break. Leela though came out like a firecracker and took Fader to the mat with a double leg takedown. The two chained for a short bit before they got back to their feet and Fader hit a belly to belly suplex.
Blaise then grabbed hold of Leela looking for a back suplex but Watts flipped back onto her feet and headed for the ropes. Watts rebounded and connected with a dropkick that sent Blaise down. Leela didn’t stop there and headed for the ropes again this time looking for a lionsault but Blaise managed to roll out of the way. Once on her feet Fader charged at Watts looking for a lariat but Leela jumped up and rolled Blaise over with a crucifix. Watts then darted for the ropes and rebounded catching Fader who was now on her knees with a yakuza kick to the head.
Leela then went right to the top rope and delivered an elbow drop. She went for a cover but Blaise kicked out. Watts then went for a swinging neckbreaker but Fader broke free and caught Watts with a stiff forearm. She followed it up with locking Leela into a bear hug. Fader was squeezing hard and Watts knew that she couldn’t stay here for long. Watts began to fire away on Blaise over and over until finally she broke free.
Blaise just wasn’t going to let her walk away though and hurled a European uppercut her way which sent her back stumbling. Watts was ready for the fight and came back with a hard kick to the chest of Blaise. The two went back and forth and the crowd was eating up every second of it. Leela started to pull ahead landing a number of kicks in a row and the pain of Blaise’s face showed they were effective. Fader swung for another hard lariat but again Leela saw it coming and ducked underneath her before jumping up her back and connecting with a “Leela Bomb” (poisoned frankensteiner). She then make the cover and got the three count.
Winner: Leela Watts
______________________________________________________________________________
The SAP cameras cut to the rooftop of some building overlooking the arena itself. The sky is dark, the city illuminated. Melissa Reeves walks into view, sporting an SAP shirt and sunglasses.
Melissa: "I know what you're thinking...why the hell are we out here"
She reaches out and forcefully pans the camera to look mostly past her, toward the arena.
Melissa: "I get it, it's a fair question. But to understand why we're out on this roof, you need to be invited into here."
She taps her temple.
Melissa: "Look there. The arena...and within it the crowd, the competitors, the action and the excitement. Then there's me; here, alone and on the outside. That's how it's been for me with SAP for a long time, I've been on the outside looking in. But that ends tonight. Tonight I return to the company and not as a freshly healed, wide-eyed, relatively unknown talent - as I was when I first joined - but now as a decorated competitor. See, in the time I spent away from here? I soared, I excelled, I achieved. But now I will prove that I can conquer SAP too, I will prove that I could have been gaining that glory and success here too."
For a few moments she is almost shouting, but her voice soon calms again.
Melissa: "You only need to look at where I am on this card to see that, even this early in, SAP are only too aware my talent. Of course they are, why wouldn't they be? Only an absolute idiot would try to overlook facts and the FACTS are that, both in Underground and Millennium, I have clawed my way toward the top of the respective piles, stepping on anyone I needed to in order to get there. Why would it be any different here?"
She shrugs.
Melissa: "But unlike those places, the boss here isn't an absolute tool. No, I am afforded the proper level of respect here in SAP, treated as I should be. So I'm in this tournament for the SAP International Championship, and like anything I'm ever involved in...I'm in this to win it."
Licking across her lips, Reeves slightly smirks.
Melissa: "Which brings me neatly to Brendan Samuels. This may be a new place for me to compete in, but that is a very familiar name. The Navigator himself, here in SAP just as he is in Underground. What can I say about the guy that you lot don't already know?"
With a little shrug, she laughs.
Melissa: "He's a talented guy, that right there is a fact. There's no doubting it, the guy has been making a name for himself. But is he me?"
She scoffs.
Melissa: "No. Is he going to beat me? No. Is he going to use me as a stepping stone toward regaining greatness here in SAP?"
Grabbing the camera, she leans in closer, her voice cold and stern.
Melissa: "No, no, no."
She steps back again, away from the camera.
Melissa: "See, as much as I respect the guy and his talents - and believe me, I do - I have no intention of my return to SAP being marred by a loss to him. No, I will beat him. I will advance to the next round of this tournament and I will go on and on until that title is around this waist."
Reeves motions across her midriff.
Melissa: "No matter what needs to be done, I will ensure that it is done. My march toward success will never be halted, no matter what must be done to fuel my advance. And Brendan Samuels? You're simply my first victim here."
Smirking again, Reeves looks back to the arena.
Melissa: "It's good be home."
And the scene cuts to the next part of the show.
______________________________________________________________________________
Brendan Samuels: National… North American… International…
The camera picks up Brendan Samuels backstage, already attired in his sea blue ring gear, naval symbols on his trunks and boots, and also attired with an open Hawaiian shirt. He glares at the camera, his cold icy eyes cutting a hole through the lens, and he carries his black flag along with him.
Brendan Samuels: It would be quite the voyage, wouldn’t it? A logical step forward if there ever was one. And while there may be a shred of disappointment echoing around that on the first show back in over a year, disappointment over the fact that I dinnae ‘ave the chance to right the wrongs committed on that fateful night last year. But what is done, is done, an’ it all be about what is done next that matters most. And what matters most is that the Kraken will raise his flag once more in a SAP Arena, do what I do best, and ye all know what that is.
Samuels responded with a smile, his fingers drumming upon the wall behind him.
Brendan Samuels: It be interestin’ to me what my opponent had to say at the recent press conference. While I can respect the talent and skill that Melissa Reeves has, and she does have it in spades, I have always seen one problem with her. Aye, she may be going to the Main Event of Underground’s biggest show of the year, but that were awarded for interfering in a match, not for her own ring work. It ain’t even this new ruthless streak of hers, twisting the rules and travelling down the dark path. And it isn’t the fact that I think she underestimates her opponents, cause while many say that of her, I dinnae believe that to be true.
Brendan wagged his finger, before raising his black flag high, displaying the Kraken and Crossbones, the word ‘Beneath’ stitched into the material.
Brendan Samuels: I think that she overestimates her own ability. In fact, I know she does. She is a victim of her own hype, and that hype has drilled itself into her head. She’s good, no doubt. But she isn’t great. And she certainly isn;t The Wrestling… She may go around at that press conference, calling me nuthin’ more than a gimmick, attempting to mock the names given to me, mock my accent, my hertiage. But this ain’t no gimmick, ‘Reaver’, this is who I am. This is what I do. I was born and raised on the waves of the ocean, and I were baptised in a wrestling ring. I live by the standards set before me by me Da, Priest Samuels, and he taught me that nuthin’ comes for those that are desperate enough to take a shortcut. An’ for ye, that any means necessary line screams of it. Naw, ye are a smart lass, everyone knows that, but if ye think for one second that those tricks and traps are gonna work on the Navigator, ye clearly weren’t thinkin’ straight when ye stowed away on me ship. My name is Brendan Samuels, and ye will know it well by the end of the night. I am bringing professional wrestling back to Spirit and Pride, for I am The Wrestling… And I’m flying the flag International.
And with that, Brendan turned to leave, flying his flag high, more than ready for the opening round of the International Title tournament.
______________________________________________________________________________
International Championship Tournament Match
Brendan Samuels vs. Melissa Reeves
There was no question who the crowd was behind in this one as the black flags could be seen flying throughout the arena. The chant of “His Name is Brendan” filling every corner. Mel on the other hand could care less because as soon as that bell rang she was sprinting across the ring and caught Samuels with a boot to the face that dropped him into the corner. She followed it up with a series of stiff forearms.
The boos were raining in on Reeves who responded with a middle finger to the crowd. What she didn’t see during that time was Samuels coming out of the corner and as she turned around she was flattened by an axe bomber. Samuels then hit the ropes and dropped the knee onto the head of Reeves who writhed around. Samuels began to pull her up but she broke away and hit a spinning kick to the gut of the kraken and followed it up with a flowing ddt.
Reeves transitioned into a crossface. Samuels had to push and claw but he made it to the ropes. Reeves didn’t exactly break clean and gave a few stomps to the neck before finally backing away. Samuels made it back to his feet and Reeves cane charging right at him. Samuels grabbed Reeves by the waist and connected with a northern lights suplex but couldn’t hold the bridge because of the neck that Reeves had been working over.
The two made it back to their feet and Samuels lit Reeves up with a huge backhand chop. Reeves wasn’t backing down though and drove a forearm into the neck of Samuels. The two went back and forth with Melissa getting the best of the exchange as she continued to drive hard shots into the neck of Brendan. Reeves then took a few steps back and went for “Facial Deconstructor” (codebreaker) but Samuels refused to go down and held on. Instead he maneuvered her around and managed to hit a fisherman’s buster. Samuels held onto his neck but knew this was his chance he pulled a groggy Melissa up and connected with “Mac Lir” (millennium suplex). Samuels made the cover and got the three count.
Winner: Brendan Samuels
______________________________________________________________________________
World Championship Match
Elijah Carlson vs. Nick Redfield
The crowd made it clear that Elijah Carlson was not their favorite person that night, and all it did was make him smile. He met Nick in the middle of the ring and the two locked up. The two went through some quick chaining and Carlson would up taking back control and topped it off with a few slaps to the back of Redfield’s head before standing up with a cheeky look on his face. Nick got up and looked angry. Eli was able to bait him into charging him and nailed Nick with a hard kick to the gut followed by a snap suplex.
Carlson got Redfield in the corner and began to unleash a series of hard kicks to his chest. Nick wasn’t taking this long however as he grabbed the leg of Carlson and then tripped the other following that up with a double stomp to the chest of the champion. It looked like Carlson had the wind knocked out of him and Nick wasn’t going to let the opportunity slide. He quickly went to the top rope and connected with a flying leg drop. He went for a cover but only got a two count.
Redfield took a breath and then went to pull Carlson up but the champ broke free and connected with a hard hand to the jaw of the challenger that dropped him. Elijah then leaned on the ropes for a second holding his chest. Once Redfield sat up though it was back to business as the champ rebounded on the ropes and nailed the challenger with a hard knee to the face. Carlson kept up the heat and pulled Redfield to his feet and connected with an inverted Russian leg sweep. He went for the cover but Nick kicked out at two.
Elijah looked frustrated while Nick looked like he was hurting yet determined. The two stood up and began to go back and forth. Nick got his second wind and began to drill Carlson with knee after knee to the gut leaving him doubled over. Redfield then once again headed for the top rope this time doing for the “Alabama Hot Pocket” (tip rope rocker dropper) but Eli knew it was coming and moved out of the way with a smirk on his face.
As Nick hit the mad on his bottom hard Carlson had things in mind. He darted for the ropes as Redfield started to get up. Once Nick was on his feet he didn’t have much time to react because Carlson had already hit the ropes and was now hitting him with “Red Light Special” (sick kick). Redfield was out and Carlson made the cover and got the three. The boos rained in but once again Elijah didn’t care at all. The show ended with the champ raising the title high in the air with a big smile on his face.
Winner and still champion: Elijah Carlson
The scene then transitions to show the familiar faces of the SAP announcers Jackson Hall and Judd Kover who are full of life and energy as they sit near the ring at the brand new commentators table.
Jackson: Hello everyone and welcome to SAP wrestling!
Judd: Man it feels great to hear you say that!
Jackson: It has been way too long but everyone we are back and we are ready for action. Tonight you will see some of your favorite SAP stars return to our ring for the first time in over a year. We will also see plenty of new faces who are sure to be looking to cement themselves as some of the best this company has to offer.
Judd: This truly is a great roster mixing old and new with everyone aiming for gold and glory. You can just feel the excitement in this building and you could really feel it backstage.
Jackson: I couldn’t have said it better Judd. So enough of us let’s get this show started!
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We cut to the backstage area where Adam Webb is sitting on a production crate. He’s already in his ring gear and looks ready to compete. He gives a small smile to the camera when he sees it.
Adam Webb: Tonight is my first chance to show the SAP roster, the SAP brass and most importantly the SAP fans what I can do in that ring. You know, I’ve had a good amount of success in pretty much all the companies I have signed with. Be it Sixth City, Vengeance, Southside or most recently Millennium. But none of that matters now, none of that matters in that SAP ring. The number of titles or wins on my record mean nothing here and now.
He lets out a slight sigh.
Adam Webb: Much like SAP, I’m on a reboot as well. I made some poor career and personal choices and I’m on the upswing of those. I think that’s why when I heard SAP was coming back, I knew I had to sign here. The talent and the fans here… It’s more about the soul of the sport than almost anywhere else. This place just makes you feel good to be a professional wrestler.
He cracks a small smile.
Adam Webb: Now, my opponent tonight, she’s also new to SAP but she’s also new to the wrestling world. I have to say that it’s an honor to share her first match with her. This is something that she’s going to look back and remember for her entire career. So I’m going to make sure this match is amazing and most importantly memorable. Memorable for not just Brax and myself, but for the fans and everyone else. I want this match to set the bar in this reboot of SAP. So I’ll see you out there Brax.
Adam smiles again as he slips off the production crate and starts down the hallway.
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Adam Webb vs. Brax Clova
At the sound of the bell, Adam and Brax circle up for a moment before locking up. Adam pushes Brax to the corner and backs up as the referee splits them up. But Brax connects with a big head kick that staggers Adam and follows it up with a jumping knee that drops Webb to the canvas. She makes the cover but only gets a two count.
Brax pulls Adam to his feet and sends him to the ropes, he comes back and ducks her clothesline and hits the ropes again. Webb comes back and Brax kicks out Adam’s leg, kneeling him, and she follows up with a shining wizard. Brax makes another cover but Adam again kicks out. She pulls him back to his feet and hits him with a series of chops that leave Adam out in the corner. Brax charges in and hits a jumping knee and follows it with a bulldog out of the corner. This time, Brax locks in an armbar, pulling back at Webb’s arm.
Adam fights the hold and finally gets his feet on the bottom rope. Brax lets go, but as soon as she stands up, Adam kicks out her leg and she catches her neck on the ropes. Adam gets back up and hits a hard soccer kick to the midsection of Brax, doubling her over. He pulls her in and drops her hard with a brainbuster. But Webb pulls Brax to a seated position, hits the ropes and drives a knee into her jaw before making the cover. Right before the three, Brax got her shoulder up to break the count.
Webb looks a bit frustrated that he didn’t get the win, but gets back on Brax with a side headlock, torquing on her neck. Brax is able to fight back to her feet, throwing some elbows to break the headlock. She pushes Adam into the ropes and when he comes back she looks to back body drop him, but Adam flips over her back, landing on his feet. Brax turns just in time to get hit with a superkick to the jaw that staggers her. Adam then levels her with The Punch Line (Roaring Elbow). Webb steps onto the ring apron and goes for his Wicked Webs (Springboard Shooting Star Press)! Webb connects and makes the cover for the win!
Winner: Adam Webb
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SAP Wrestling cuts backstage to the locker room area, Bailey Archer is sitting on a bench lacing up her Nike's, already in her ring gear and her hair up in pigtails. She has her iPhone on her knee and the phone is ringing on speaker.
PIZZA HUT: Thank you for calling Pizza Hut this is Tommy. Is this delivery or carryout?
BAILEY ARCHER: Yo Tommy! This is delivery but you see I have this wrestling match coming up soon. So I need it delivered to me as soon as I come through the curtain after winning. Make sense?
PIZZA HUT: I am not sure we can do that...
BAILEY ARCHER: I think you can! I mean I don't know how long my match will be... But between you and me, Tommy, I think I can handle the guy pretty quick! When I am done though I will be starving and a hot large pepperoni stuffed crust pizza will be perfect! I will put your name on the security list so they know that Tommy from Pizza Hut is my guy.
PIZZA HUT: Uh...
BAILEY ARCHER: Glad we got this to work. It is the SAP Wrestling show. My match is coming up quick too so get that pie in the oven! I cannot wait! If you hurry you can even watch me in action. I will dedicate a kick to his gut for you too.
PIZZA HUT: Ok but...
BAILEY ARCHER: Bye! Thank you!
Bailey hangs up and jumps to her feet before the guy can even get another word in. She walks over, looking in the mirror with a grin before heading out of the locker room ready for action.
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Backstage we see Aleks Parker as she is waiting outside the locker room.
Aleks: Hello everyone, first and foremost welcome back to SAP! I am so excited to be back and I couldn’t wait for this day to come. Right now we are waiting for Luca Di Paulo to make his way out of the locker room before his match with Bailey Archer.
Then as if by clockwork Luca Di Paulo comes out from behind the door. His bronzed body glistening in the light.
Aleks: Luca! Can I get a few words with you before your match up?
The golden eagle rolls his eyes and adjusts his entrance vest.
Luca: I guess so. Just be quick about it.
Aleks: Thank you so much. First you were one of the previous SAP roster members who chose to come back to the company. What made you want to return to SAP?
Luca: They doubled my contract.
Parker just kinda gives him a blank stare for a short moment.
Aleks: Was there anything else?
Luca: Not really. You should see my contract.
The arrogance was just flowing off of him.
Aleks: Alright, well how are you feeling heading into your match with Bailey Archer?
Di Paulo looked down at Aleks.
Luca: Who?
Aleks: ...Bailey Archer.
Luca: Exactly Alex. No one knows who she is. No one cares who she is. This whole crowd they know who I am. They know I’m the most beautiful face in SAP. As soon as I step through that curtain everyone in attendance will be wishing they had me. Wishing they could take me home. All Bailey does it take pictures in her stupid glasses while thinking she’s something attractive. She should go back to playing video games in her parents basement and avoid the light of day like the loser she is.
Aleks: Well, thank you for your time Luca. And my name is Aleks, not Alex.
Luca: Yeah, no one cares.
With that Luca walked off.
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Bailey Archer vs. Luca Di Paulo
The bell rang and the two locked up. Archer seemed to get the better of jockeying for position despite the height difference which caused Luca to break it and tell the ref that she was pulling his hair. Archer denied it and the two locked up again. Once more Luca broke it telling the referee that she was pulling his hair. Archer called him a liar and then went to lock up with him again but he dropped down and rolled out of the ring.
The crowd booed Di Paulo and Archer didn’t seem to happy either as she leaned over the top rope to scream at him. The referee got her to get off the ropes and while they were talking Luca reached under the ring and grabbed a bottle of baby oil and doused himself with it before sliding back into the ring. Archer went to lock up with him and slid right off.
Luca then began to light her up with a series of chops. Di Paulo backed her up into the corner and then backed up and got a running start looking for a corner splash but Archer moved. Luca was so greased up that he went sliding over the top rope and went crashing out to the floor. Bailey wasted no time and rolled to the outside and grabbed the disoriented Luca and rolled him into the ring. As Luca came too he never saw Archer coming when she connected with “Reckless Abandon” (corkscrew stunner). Archer hooked the leg and got the three count.
Winner: Bailey Archer
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Stood somewhere backstage at the PPG Paints Arena, ahead of her match later, is Selina Metzger, and she begins by introducing herself, for the benefit of anyone who did not see the press conference earlier. She is pleased to be part of SAP’s restart, and she plans to make a positive first impression in her debut, against “The War Queen,” Leah.
Selina acknowledges that Leah will have a similar aim to herself, in what is also her SAP debut, and she looks forward to the war that Leah claims she will bring. She remarks that during the press conference, Leah appeared to tell everyone that she embodies what the words “spirit” and “pride” mean, but Selina declares that anyone who wishes to stand a chance of defeating Der Übermensch will need to possess more than just those two traits, as she very much personifies her nickname.
While Selina does not expect this match to be easy, she does expect to win. She is quick to assert that she is not going to underestimate Leah though, adding that she is clearly disciplined, which is evident from the shape she is in. However, while Leah might be in good shape, she is not in über shape, like Der Übermensch.
Selina then holds up her left hand, so that the tattoos on the sides of her fingers are visible to the camera; her middle finger has “Ruthless” tattooed on it, while “GAME OVER” is tattooed on her ring finger. She finishes by saying that Leah is going to be the first person in SAP to get a taste of how ruthless she can be. “Because tonight, when Leah sets foot in the ring with me, it’ll be Game Over for The War Queen.”
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Selina Metzger vs. Leah
These two weren’t playing around and as soon as the bell rang they began to exchange blows. Leah came hard but the size and strength of Metzger quickly overcame and Selina then whipped Leah into the ropes. Leah managed to duck a clothesline and then quickly nailed Metzger with a roundhouse kick to the back of the head.
Metzger went down to a knee and Leah went for the ropes. The war queen was looking to hit the kneeled Ubermensch with a big boot but Selina saw her coming and hooked the leg and connected with a capture suplex. The two continued to go back and forth. Leah was trying to wear Metzger down while Selina was trying to break the war queens spirit. It seemed like neither was possible.
Leah connected with a series of Muay Thai knee strikes to the body of Metzger to wear her down. She then went to lift her up for “Drop the Bomb” but Metzger wasn’t having it. She lowered her center of gravity and then landed a number of hard clubs to the back of Leah. She then lifted her up for what looked like a powerbomb but then using her sheer power she popped her up into the air and then caught her in position to land the “Elbe Valley Driver” (Death Valley driver). Metzger made the cover and got the three count.
Winner: Selina Metzger
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Cue scene. Open scene. Any derivation of a generic opening scene to make certain people mad. The scene, of course, focused in on one Aella Foley. Roughed up, beat up, and possibly high on painkillers due to her long list of recent work related injuries, she was currently eating Grenade’s Carb Killa White Chocolate Protein spread out of the jaw with a spoon like the goddamn animal that she was. What? You never said fuck it and just went to town on a jar of peanut butter or nutella? No? Well, fuck you, she was. She was goddamn enjoying it too until she saw the camera man and sighed, trying to speak with a mouthful of the spread.
Aella Foley: “Fa’ FUHCK’S THAKE!”
Pause. She took a drink from her water, and made a hard swallow, looking more than a little annoyed.
Aella Foley: “For Fuck’s Sake. I was eating.”
As the Camera man backed away, she snapped her fingers, gesturing for him to come closer.
Aella Foley: “Nah, you’re not leaving just yet. Look. I’m tired, I’m beat the fuck up, but I’m not going anywhere, aye? I’m coming to raise the standard of ultraviolence for SAP after just getting a master class in it from the rising stars of the Deathmatch community. I mean, when you get attacked by a naked opponent with a box cutter, it kind of changes your perspective, don’t it?”
Amused, she licked the spoon, again, before plunking it back in the jar of protein spread ike a fucking unwashed savage.
Aella Foley: “Sparrow’s going to be the target of me raising that bar. Whether I win or not, i plan on pushing him further than he’s ever been pushed, in ways he’s never been pushed. He trains under a dominatrix but I’m going to show him the actual meaning of pain by introducing him into a world of it. That ring’s an operating theatre and I’m the fucking surgeon, to steal often quoted lines by the wrestlers that’ve come before me. Watch me out there, this is going to be a bloodbath one way or the other.”
Winking at the camera, she went back to eating her protein spread, straight out of the jar as the camera left her side, fading out.
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Mighty Sparrow vs. Aella Foley
This was truly going to be a battle of styles as the kick heavy Sparrow was going against the grapple heavy Foley. The two circled each other with Sparrow hitting some quick leg kicks to try and keep Foley at bay. However when Sparrow went for a high kick Aella was ready and shot an ankle pick on the plant leg.
Once on the ground Foley started to look for a leg lock but Sparrow wasn’t having it. He used his free leg to kick at her in between dragging himself to the ropes. Just as it seemed like Aella was going to have a heel hook Sparrow reached the ropes. He stood up slowly and stomped on his leg a little to assess if there was any damage and then got on.
Sparrow then hit the ropes with enthusiasm. Trying to use his speed to catch Aella off guard he was able to catch her with a rana that sent her to the mat. Sparrow quickly scaled the ropes and tried to connect with a missile dropkick but Foley saw it coming and moved out of the way. Aella thought quickly and headed for the ropes herself. Rebounding and connecting with “Galloglaich” (running knee to head of rising opponent). Sparrow looked dazed and managed to hook an arm over the bottom rope as he went down forcing the referee to make Foley back off.
Aella was now stalking Sparrow. Just waiting for him to get to his feet. Still dazed he finally made it up and Foley sprinted across the ring looking to hit FAUGH A BALLAGH (striking spear) but Sparrow saw her coming and leapt into the air hitting her with a double stomp right on her back driving her into the mat. He quickly went for a cover but Foley kicked out. Sparrow shook his head in disbelief but quickly went to grab Foley in what turned out to be a mistake. Foley grabbed hold of Sparrow when he reached for her and locked in “Kingslayer” (rolling kneebar). With the ropes nowhere in sight Sparrow had to tap out.
Winner: Aella Foley
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Backstage, the camera shows “DA #TROLL GUY” Mariano Fernandez meeting with his DA #TRIXTEAM partner, the Prime Girl Trixie. He’s already wearing his wrestling gear, with this leather jacket hanging from his shoulders, and she is wearing a rare red Prime Girl top to match her red shorts. The shirt was snipped at the side to give a ladder design and Trixie's hair was full of volume and lightly curled at the ends. She also flaunted some new red ring boots to fully show off her SAP Spirit and the bright red lipped smile confirmed she was happy to be back.
FERNANDEZ: “SAP is here one more time, mang, and with it, here we are again. Back to where it all began, and back to what made us what we are.”
TRIXIE SMITH: "BACK where #DaTrixTeam started. Long, long before we became multi-tag team champions we had our first one on one match up here and formed our team. Now, tonight, here at The Reboot we're taking on the new team who want to be "the best tag team in the world."
Trixie looks over at Manny with a raised eyebrow as she gauges his reaction to her quoting their opponents.
TRIXIE SMITH: "They sound like a team with a plan, which is good don't get me wrong… however…"
For his part, Manny throws his hands and shakes his head.
FERNANDEZ: “They’re nowhere near as seasoned and decorated, and overall as GOOD, a team as ours, mang. But I don’t question their courage to come at us. Unfortunately for them, though - this is the ONE place in the world that we’ve come to find success on - and here at The Reboot, that’s gotta start with them.”
He places a hand on her shoulder.
FERNANDEZ: “After all - it’s only right we reunited at last with a victory, right mang?”
TRIXIE SMITH: "Chica... and totally!*
She says pulling out of her pocket two pairs of aviators when it is usually Trixie who wears them for her entrance.
TRIXIE SMITH: "I mean my tag team partner did defeat your teacher, Miles. Manny, at 4CW Adrenaline #88, pinned Mark and that was almost a year ago… and Manny's gotten better and better since then. 4CW Pride Champion, 4CW Tag Team Champion. I've defeated Mark Storm in Legacy Pro last year.”
FERNANDEZ: “And likewise Trixie has only gotten even better since then - you see her now as the NVR Women’s Champion.”
TRIXIE SMITH: Awww, thank you. We BOTH have improved since we've faced your teacher, in the singles division and in the tag team division.
FERNANDEZ: “And we’ve returned to SAP, right to the VERY beginning, to give the both of you a piece of that knowledge and skill the both of us have acquired, mang. Only, it will be in the form of your first L in this here company.”
He gives the camera a Trollface.
FERNANDEZ: “But don’t blame us for that shit, mang. Use it to improve where your teacher has failed. Use it to drive you forward as every L we’ve had has driven us up to this point. And THEN, some other time, in some uncertain future… then MAYBE you’ll beat us one day. But as SAP’s reboot is on tonight, so too is the return…
Mariano looks at Trixie in the eye, she returns the gaze, and both look at the camera, yelling in unison.
TRIXIE SMITH/FERNANDEZ: “... of DA #TRIXTEAM!”
And then Trixie hands off her second pair of aviator sunglasses over to Manny just as her Cousin Mimi comes into the picture.
MIMI SMITH: Heyyyy, guys.
Mariano’s eyes open wide, having been caught with his hand on Trixie’s shoulder, so he takes it back and looks away, his face blushing as he addresses her.
FERNANDEZ: “Oh, uh. Hey yo. How you doing, m…”
But before Mimi can respond, he takes a deep breath.
FERNANDEZ: “I mean, chica?”
MIMI SMITH: "I was just looking around and saw you guys chatting and exchanging looks and thought I'd come over. Trixie looks good in her new red gear she had made specifically for SAP, doesn't she, Mariano?"
Mimi says ironically biting a red vine. Mariano’s face goes a deeper red, but he nods.
FERNANDEZ: “I-I mean, yes she does, mang.”
He gives Trixie a look, and by the dumbstruck expression on his face, it is obvious he agrees.
TRIXIE SMITH: "Well thank you, Manny."
MIMI SMITH: "Hmmm..."
She smirks ever so slightly as she holds up her red vine and closes one eye, very clearly comparing Manny's face to the red of her vine candy and Manny knew it.
FERNANDEZ: “But, uh - what brings you here tonight, chica? Besides coming to watch us, of course.”
He takes his hand to his chin, somewhat uncertainly.
MIMI SMITH: "Well, apart from DTT, that's you guys, facing S2K, I'm here to see the SAP International Tournament and to make sure you guys aren't being attacked by anyone. Have you been attacked?"
Trixie shakes her head, and so does Mariano.
MIMI SMITH: “You're welcome. That'll be $10.”
And she holds her hand out to Mariano. Though his nose furrows in a comical expression, he reaches into his jacket and hands her the bill.
FERNANDEZ: “Well, uh- thank you for the well done job, chica.”
MIMI SMITH: "Thank you very much. Now go get 'em Button."
He looks at the camera and raises his eyebrows, not entirely convinced. But then he turns back to her, and this time it’s a friendly smile.
FERNANDEZ: “And hope you like the tournament!”
MIMI SMITH: "I'm sure the tournament people will do great."
TRIXIE SMITH: "I think our match is up next."
Trixie says, showing she's calm under pressure and puts on her shades. Immediately, Mariano follows suit, and bangs his right fist into his left palm.
FERNANDEZ: “Let’s get this shit done, chica.”
Mimi Smith then discreetly puts some cheese into Manny's jacket pocket as a callback to Manny's first prank on Trixie, disguising it with a pat on the butt.
MIMI SMITH: "Get 'Em Button!"
Mariano leaps very startedly forward, gone from red to pasty white.
FERNANDEZ: “EEEEEEEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!?”
He turns wildly towards Mimi, but before he can do anything else, she points forward, to Trixie walking.
MIMI SMITH: Don't keep my Cousin waiting, Button.
Mariano turns his head to Trixie, then back to Mimi.
FERNANDEZ: “Miiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiimiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii…”
MIMI SMITH: “That’s my name, don’t wear it out.”
But nevertheless, he goes to catch up with her, as the camera cuts to the ring.
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Da Trixteam vs. Shoot 2 Kill
The crowd was firmly behind SAP favorites Da Trixteam and they were more than happy to have the support. The two played to the crowd but Richardson and Watson weren’t enthused and told the two it was time to get to business. Manny and Richardson started the match. The two locked up and Richardson showed off his technical prowess early and was able to hit a succession of chain moves before Manny was able to grab the ropes.
Manny just nodded at his opponent and the two circled each other. Richardson went to lock up and Manny then rolled forward with a koppu kick that caught Richardson flush and sent him to the mat. Fernandez hit some quick offense before tagging Trixie in. Trixie came in with a head full of steam and went for a spinning heel kick but Richardson managed to duck it and then quickly tagged in Watson.
Shoot 2 Kill then spent the next few minutes working over Trixie with quick tags and combination moves. Trixie was starting to look worse for the wear and Manny was in the corner trying to rally her on to get to him. The tides finally turned when Watson hit the ropes and rebounded but was caught with a modified fastball punch from Trixie that dropped him. Both hit the mat and the crowd was going nuts as they were pulling for Trixie to make the tag.
Trixie was able to tag in Mariano who came in on fire. Dropping Richardson and Watson with a series of punches and kicks culminating with him hitting “The Gadfly” (step up enziguri) on Watson. Trixie sent Richardson over the top rope to the floor with a clothesline and then her eyes met Manny’s. The two wasted no time and connected with “Da Prime Kick” (double shining wizard). Manny made the cover and got the three count.
Winners: Da Trixteam
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The Reeds vs. BGTL
Two of SAP’s most tenured teams were eager to get this started as all four of them began to brawl as the bell was rung. The referee had trouble gaining control as none of them wanted to listen and just continued to beat the hell out of each other. The brawl soon spilled to the outside. The referee again called for them to break it up and get back into the ring. Yet none of them seemed to listen. The referee did all he could to get these four to listen and restore order but he just couldn’t do it and finally called for the bell. Security had to be called to pull them all apart.
Winners: No Contest
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Cartier sits in a high hotel room over the industrial landscape of Pittsburgh, PA. Old steel mills loom against a dismal, grey skyline. As she watches airplanes carve curlicues of exhaust contrails through the drab firmament, she drags from a Black n' Mild cigarillo and watches the puffs drift by her window, obscuring her reflection in the dirty glass.
💎CARTIER💎: "Been a long, long time SAP. Almost feels like destiny to be settin' foot back in a Spirit an' Pride ring after all this time. I still remember the first time I ever earned a payday from a pro wrestlin' match, under that SAP banner, like it was just yesterday… but it also feels like a lifetime ago at the same time. So much has changed in my life. I ain't the inexperienced rookie I was back in January of 2018… I been all over the country, across the ocean, won championships by myself an' as a team wit' SILK. Made the quarterfinals of the QuagCup... I been in a damn death match, y'all. I done stuff I would had never anticipated. But I always wondered what coulda been had SAP kept goin' back then. I had a little hot streak on my side, won that battle royal, had me a marquee matchup wit' Eli Carlson… as someone who had only been in the business a couple months at that time that was a huge deal, know what I'm sayin'?"
A cloud passes in front of what little sun is peeking through the haze of the rust belt sky, dropping a curtain of darkness over Cartier's window.
💎CARTIER💎: "I had though I would never get that chance to answer that 'what if…' but here we are. You know as soon as my phone rang wit' the offer to return I was all over it. I need to get back to these roots. An' to start off by sharin' a ring wit' someone I respect an' someone I was good wit' from the start? Someone who always had my back when I was a nobody just gettin' started? That's what this business can give you that you ain't gonna find nowhere else. Things can come full circle but still be totally different at the same time. People we looked up to one day we lookin' eye to eye wit' the next. Me an' Jess? We gonna put on a show for all the people here in Pittsburgh, we gonna show the whole world that SAP is back. Whoever come out on top wit' that TV Championship gonna have earned it for sure. We here as friends, that's a fact, but when that bell rings it's all business. That's all there is to it, honestly. Now let's get it."
Cartier blows another puff from her Black, then smiles out the window as things fade away.
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Television Championship Match
Jessica Matthews vs. Cartier
The crowd was excited for this match, caused as a result of the final X championship match at the last show before the reboot. The two quickly locked up and Cartier pushed Matthews up against the ropes. The referee called for a clean break and it looked like one would be given at first before Cartier nailed Jess with a forearm. Matthews wasn’t having it and went right after Cartier, landing a series of European uppercuts.
Jess then darted for the ropes but Cartier followed. As Matthews rebounded Cartier drove a hard knee right into her gut causing her to go spilling out the middle rope to the floor. Cartier followed Jess to the outside and picked her up and went to Irish whip her but Jess reversed it and whipped Cartier right into the ring post. Matthews rolled into the ring as the ref began to count. Cartier made it in at 17.
Matthews then went on the offensive but Cartier wasn’t backing down and kept going shot for shot with the former X champion. Matthews then tried to change direction and went for a more technical based attack. Jess went for “Guardian of the Enterprise” (cross armbreaker) but Cartier was able to clasp her hands and managed to get a foot on the rope to cause a break. As the two stood up Cartier rocked Mathews with a discus elbow followed by a backdrop driver.
Both women were starting to look worse for the wear. Matthews was still a little rocked from the last exchange but managed to catch a charging Cartier with a high kick. Matthews followed it up with “The Dixon Arrow” (swinging ddt). The crowd was behind her and Matthews saw the title within reach. She climbed the top rope and went for the “Silver Moon Shockwave” (630 Cannonball senton) but Cartier moved out of the way! Jess landed hard and Cartier watched her every move. As Jess groggily made it to a knee Cartier dashed forward connecting with “Empire State of Mind” (Kinshasa). Cartier made the cover and got the three count.
Winner and *NEW* Television champion: Cartier
Cartier was handed the belt and quickly began to celebrate before exiting the ring. The referee was checking on Matthews. When Jess got back to her feet she received an ovation from the crowd which seemed to bring a smile back to her face. She wove out to them but this was cut short as a man in a hoodie slid into the ring and quickly attacked her from behind.
Jackson: What is going on? Who is this?
The man pulled off the hoodie revealing Joey Ortega who received boos from the crowd and responded with a middle finger.
Judd: Joey Bloodbath showing up to cause trouble? Yeah, who would have guessed that.
Judd said it sarcastically as Ortega laid stomps down on Matthews. He then pulled her up and tossed her into the corner connecting with a repeated chop and punch combination. Ortega then pulled her out of the corner and connected with a high angle jumping double arm ddt. As Matthews was laid out in the middle of the ring Ortega called for a microphone.
As he was handed one the crowd only began to boo louder. All it made him do was smile.
Ortega: You can boo all you fucking want. It ain’t gonna stop a fucking thing. No to prevent any douchebag from asking me as soon as I cross that curtain “Why Joey why?”, I’ll just tell all you pieces of shit out here and save myself the fucking time. I want to take all you mother fuckers back to July of 2016. See it was right after this dumb fuck laying on the mat right here won a tag match with the man who was smart enough to leave her but not smart enough to not marry her in the first fucking place at the first SAP show. It was supposed to be such a joyous moment. Then who showed up to ruin it? This piece of fucking garbage right here.
Ortega pointed at himself and the crowd let him have it with insults.
Ortega: See shit tends to come full circle. It would have been better had she won tonight and then I came in here and beat the shit out of her but I’m still ok with how it turned out. So once again Jess came into SAP thinking she was hot shit. Thinking she was a somebody. The only kind of somebody she is, is the kind of somebody you wish you could forget. So that’s what I’m going to do. I’m going to kick her ass right out of SAP’s front fucking door for the world to fucking see.
With that Ortega dropped the mic and exited the ring with the medical team passing him on their way to the ring as he was headed up the ramp.
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National Championship Match
Tyson Gregory vs. Cailey Carter
Before the bell sounds, Tyson charges Cailey and tosses her between the top and middle turnbuckles, her shoulder connecting with the ring post. The official calls for the match to start and Tyson stays on Carter, stomping away as she falls in the corner. Gregory picks up Carter and drops her shoulder first onto the top turnbuckle. He then walks away and argues with the fans at ringside as the referee checks on Cailey. Tyson turns back just as Cailey is back to her feet and kicks him with a big roundhouse kick.
Gregory stumbles and uses the ropes to hold himself up. Cailey stays at him and kicks him hard in the spine. Tyson staggers again before Carter hooks him with a snap DDT. But she’s not done with Tyson as she picks him back up, hits him with a jumping knee followed by an Enzuigiri before making the cover, but only getting a two count.
Cailey doesn’t seem down though as she lines up Tyson, waiting for him to get up. Just as Tyson gets to his knees, she connects with a superkick to the jaw, dropping him to a seated position. Cailey goes for a shining wizard but Tyson moves just in time and rolls Carter up but only for a two count.
Both get to their feet but Cailey strikes first with a knee to the chest of Tyson that sends him into the nearby ropes. He stumbles forward and she goes for The Daybreaker (Fireman's Carry Cutter) but Gregory starts to hammer away on the shoulder he focused on earlier, making Carter drop him. Tyson is quick to his feet and gets Cailey up and drives her down with The Vanish of Hope (Cradle Tombstone Piledriver)! Tyson makes the cover and gets the three!
Winner and still champion: Tyson Gregory
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The camera cuts to backstage where Tyson Gregory, fresh off his championship defense, is stomping around with the SAP National Championship belt draped over his shoulder. He is loudly humming “Hail To The Chief” as he arrogantly walks around. He sees the camera on him and he smiles big.
Tyson Gregory: Ladies and gentlemen! STILL your National Champion! Tyson Gregory!
He then gives himself a cheer and gives the camera a bow.
Tyson Gregory: As if there was any doubt in anyone’s mind that I wouldn’t win. I will hand it to Cailey though, she actually walked down to the ring and ready for her public execution with a lot of pride in her step. But she knew, I knew and everyone in this damn building knew that she was just the lamb coming to slaughter.
Tyson holds up the SAP National Championship towards the camera.
Tyson Gregory: This right here is the greatest and grandest Championship in all of SAP! I get that I wasn’t in the main event but that was just me being a humble and gracious champion and letting others get some of the limelight that I bring shining to SAP. Besides, what kind of main event would it be with that absolute destruction I put Cailey through?
He gives a smirk to the camera.
Tyson Gregory: Now if you excuse me… I’m gonna go victory bang my extremely smoking hot wife, Ally.
He gives the camera a wink before heading down the hallway, celebrating.
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Alexs Parker gets the camera shot as the show switches backstage. She awaits at the door of Venus LeCavalier. Seeming a little impatient but retaining her politeness, she reaches over to knock on the door. When she goes to try, it opens sharply, almost causing her to lose her balance. Luckily, she was trained better than that and retrains her balance. Venus walks out, holding her trusty tranquilizer rifle, which takes Parker back.
Alexs Parker: “Venus, what is with the—“
Venus cuts her eyes at the interviewer.
Venus LeCavalier: “If you don’t know what this is for, then you don’t know me at all.”
Alexs nods a bit, a tad embarrassed.
Venus LeCavalier: “It’s to secure my victory, of course.”
The snippy answer does cause Alexs to arch an eyebrow.
Alexs Parker: “Won’t that get you a DQ?”
Venus once more hardens her glare, which now makes Alexs take a good step back.
Venus LeCavalier: “Not if you get caught. Even then, announcing it and carrying it like this may draw my opponent and the referee into a false sense about it. They may get focused on it, and that may lead to my victory as well. There’s many functions to carrying around this weapon beyond what your brain processed.”
Venus turns to walk away, but Parker makes a step to stop her.
Venus LeCavalier: “What is it?”
Alexs Parker: “I have more questions?”
The Most Honest Woman in Wrestling sighs and keeps going.
Venus LeCavalier: “When you do your research, I may fathom answering your questions.”
Yet, she stops on her heel, turning her head.
Venus LeCavalier: “You get one, though. I can’t afford to be entirely rude. Though it may be warranted, I don’t want any negative press about me. You get one question.”
Alexs takes a moment to ponder on what exact one she wants to ask. When she finds it, one can almost see the lightbulb.
Alexs Parker: “Is there anyone you’re looking forward to facing if you win tonight?”
Venus blinks at the question before turning around.
Venus LeCavalier: “A true competitor doesn’t look forward to those who will sooner try to impede her progression. They look forward to seeing how easily they can make them move out of the way.”
With the answer left for audience and interviewer alike, Venus LeCavalier moves onward out of camera view. When it trains back on Alexs, she simply stares at where Venus went. She nods and silently moves onto someone a little more receptive.
______________________________________________________________________________
International Championship Tournament Match
Venus LeCavalier vs. New York CruZe
The match started out at a lighting pace when the two sped around the ring looking to get an advantage over the other. CruZe used his incredible speed to try and land some moves but Venus’ gymnastics background gave her what she needed in the agility department to avoid this moves. However it was a double edged sword for both as CruZe’s speed allowed him to get out of the way of her attacks.
Things finally changed when CruZe was able to catch Venus with a leg lariat. Once she hit the mat NYC was quick to lock in a half crab and try to keep the momentum on his side. Venus lifted herself up and pulled her free leg back and placed it on the lower back of NYC and pushed him forward causing him to break the hold. She quickly got back to her feet and saw NYC coming right at her after rebounding off the ropes. She was able to sweep his legs out from under him putting him in a seated position and followed it up with a cartwheel into a basement dropkick.
The two went back and forth as the match went on. CruZe had a near fall after catching Venus with a picture perfect dropkick. While Venus connected with “LeCavalier United” (running double knee smash to seated opponent in corner) that nearly saw her pick up the victory.
CruZe battled back though using his arsenal of kicks to wear down Venus. Enough to the point where he thought it was time to end it. CruZe went for “New York State of Mind” (springboard koppu kick) but LeCavalier was able to roll out of the way. She then headed for her tranquilizer gun in her corner but the ref cut her off when she had it and grabbed it. However that might have been what she wanted all along. As the ref was busy tossing the gun to an attendant at ringside Venus drove a knee right into the groin of CruZe. She then quickly grabbed his arm and rolled him to the mat locking in “Sheer Heart Attack” (hoverboard lock). As the ref turned around Venus was wrenching on the hold and NYC didn’t have a choice but to tap out.
Winner: Venus LeCavalier
______________________________________________________________________________
We open up outside of the PPG Paints Arena. It’s the middle of the day before the show tonight, so the fans aren’t filing in or hanging around out front of the arena. Standing out like a sore thumb due to his attire though is a man who will compete in the first round of the SAP International Title Tournament tonight, Sean Isaac Leonard Kennedy. SILK has black and purple Fendi sneakers on his feet, white fitted Fendi jeans, a black Fendi t-shirt with purple and white designs splattered across it, his signature three round framed Fendi glasses and his hair perfectly dooed upwards with a purple, white and black head sash across his forehead, just under his hairline. Noticeably absent is all of his Titles from the other promotions he competes in. SILK stands in front of a bronze statue of Pittsburgh Penguins legend Mario Lemieux which towers above him in all of its glory.
SILK: “Le Magnifique”.
After a momentary pause he continues.
SILK: “The Magnificent”.
SILK continues staring towards the sight of the hall of famer, Lemieux, splitting two defenders - Rich Pilon and Jeff Norton on December 20th, 1988. Not only did Lemieux himself carry the “Le Magnifique” moniker but so did this statue that was raised in his honor back in 2012.
SILK: That’s what he was and that’s what ya boi - Sean Isaac Leonard Kennedy is everywhere he goes. Spirit And Pride put up one of the biggest bags they ever had to a potential signee and instead of grabbin’ it for the sake of the bank account, ya boi took it for the opportunity it presented.
He turns his head towards the camera, as if checking it has the right side profile angle on him and then turns back to face the statue once more.
SILK: Not only did it present the Georgia Gigolo the opportunity to be paid and the chance to be great but there was a void to be filled. As I looked up and down the roster I saw that it lacked that one thing ya boi could bring - that extra “oomph”. The aura, the encounter, the dynamicness that only ya boi brings to not only the ring but to a company as a whole. Haters live to run they mouth ‘bout me while fans can’t fathom this industry without me. I ain’t phased, that shit comes with the territory of bein’ great. Just ask Riley.
Now fully turning to the camera with the statue hovering high behind SILK, there’s no smirk or white teeth brightly lighting up the shot, just a serious and determined look.
SILK: You live to breed hate girl on anythin’ it anyone that stands toe to toe with you or your boy toy. Admirable, if only you were good enough to back up that hate with enough talent that would give you that kinda right but guess what? You ain’t that great. No matter how many times he smashes you, your in ring ability ain’t gon’ increase or improve Riley.
A shrug comes from SILK casually.
SILK: You ran your mouth to me a while back and then ducked out when I put your ability to question. You started up with me again, tryin’ to twist one of my boys sayin’ I’m gon’ beat some dude and his girl will leave with me after into some misogynistic narrative that was a bigger reach that Hakeem Olajuwon‘s wing span and when you got called on it? Hit me with a block like the beta personality you are cause the narrative you tried to spin was like your wrestlin’ career is - trash. I mean look at what you’ve done and then look at what I’ve done, there’s not even a comparison. You’re a breakup away from bein’ a server at Denny’s, let’s be real here.
SILK takes a seat on the edge of the statue’s base, folding his hands together with his arms resting on his knees as he speaks again with a calm tone laced about his voice.
SILK: Tonight Riley, I punch my ticket to the next round at your expense. The time for talk, as little as you’ve done so far, is over. The time for action is upon us. Then again, all of those chatter and we all know what’s gon’ happen - you’re gon’ take that L and act like this all never even happened, as if it was some fleeting dream you’ve forgotten as soon as you hit social media to post your next selfie. Thing is, I plan on makin’ enough noise with this match that you can’t forget Riley. But don’t worry, a loss to ya boi will just give ya another thing in common with your puppy love that y’all can pillow talk over.
Standing up, SILK places his hands in his pockets and turns back towards the statue once more.
SILK: My run in SAP will be magnificent but my International Title win in the end?...well, that’ll be “Le Magnifique”.
SILK winks through his shades and walks forward out of the camera’s sight as it stays still and eventually fades into the bronzed face of Mario Lemieux.
______________________________________________________________________________
Backstage in her locker room, Riley Savell is hanging out before her match. Keeping Her company is her boyfriend Cosmo Cooper, Riley sits on his lap as he takes a seat on the bench, she smiles a little and runs her fingers through his glorious blonde locks. The pair seem oblivious to the camera as they lose themselves in one another, establishing a standard of PDA as they share a long slow kiss before Riley, rolling her eyes finally glances at the camera.
Riley Savell: Let me guess, you’re here cause you want me to talk about my opponent tonight and his shitty little press conference? Well, bad news. I don’t have anything to say about that waste of energy. He did exactly what I knew he would do and that’s spin shit. Acting like I’m nothing more than someone’s girlfriend. So that’s exactly what you’re getting.
As she says this, Riley wriggles a little on Cosmo’s lap and that draws a small groan from him, sweeping her eyelashes with an innocent look Riley leans her head close to his and drops her tone to a stage whisper.
Riley Savell: As if being your girlfriend isn’t something in and of itself. Girls everywhere long to be exactly where I am, they’re lining up to take my spot. Unlike the loser I’ll be facing tonight, nobody in this room has ever pestered someone into a date.
Bringing her attention back to the camera she smirks.
Riley Savell: I mean really, how pathetic do you need to be that you hound people into dates with you? Your attitude towards matches seems to be your attitude towards twitter and wrestling in general. How is anyone supposed to act like they’re interested in someone who drones on and on and on… just to force you to listen to them talk.
How absolutely dire… WE would never need to do something like that. Unlike the sizzle without the steak I’ll be standing across from tonight? All I have to do is show up and people pay attention. I am the draw, I am the match ad he should be grateful he’s even sharing a ring with me, let alone getting to be on the other end of my first victory here in SAP.
Another smirk crosses the lips of the cocky Riley as she enjoys her seat in Coopers lap with another little wriggle. Tracing her fingers over his abs through his shirt, Riley lets out a satisfied sound.
Riley Savell: After all, it’s me who they made big noise about signing here. I’ve been all over the world and everywhere I go, I make a statement. Hell even in IYH I was hand picked to lead a team to victory and secure the spot of ownership for the company. Don’t get it twisted, I’m a mainstay in this sport and that championship belongs to me.
SAP wants a champion that people will want to see, they want someone repping this company that people care about. And, whether it’s posting pictures of my hot body on twitter or sitting here, addressing everything but the loser in the ring… people pay attention. Love me or hate me, you can’t pretend not to know who I am. And trying to discredit me is beyond pathetic.
But then, that perfectly describes him doesn’t it?
Riley turns her attention back to her boyfriend, taking her time to enjoy another long kiss before the pair talk back and forth between each other, their conversation has nothing to do with the match tonight. Her arrogance continues as she wastes air time just to make small talk with her boyfriend, really not caring about truly addressing her match.
Letting time tick past, Riley keeps the conversation going for some time before she finally looks back to the camera, rolling her eyes she takes on the same board tone she used at the press conference.
Riley Savell: You’re still here?
Waving a hand at the camera she lets out a small laugh.
Riley Savell: You’re excused.
______________________________________________________________________________
International Championship Tournament Match
Riley Savell vs. Sean Isaac Leonard Kennedy
Both competitors had scathing looks on their faces as they came out of their corners after the bell rang. It was entirely clear that there was no love loss here and this was going to be a war. The two went to lock up but Riley quickly broke it to give a knee to Silk’s gut followed by a thumb to the eye. As Silk went stumbling back into the corner the referee reprimanded Riley for her tactics. She could care less and as she went for Silk he came right out of the corner with a spinning back fist that floored Savell.
The crowd cheered and Silk took it in with some theatrics. As Riley was getting up Silk hit the ropes and then connected with a sling blade. He went for the cover but Savell kicked out. Silk kept on the pressure and quickly placed her in the “Trick Turner” (sharpshooter). Savell screamed out in pain but wasn’t giving up. She pulled herself over to the bottom rope and forced a break.
Silk wasn’t planning on letting of the gas and grabbed Riley by an ankle and started to drag her back to the center of the ring. Savell though swung around with her free leg and caught Silk right in the jaw sending him back into the ropes. Savell got to her feet and charged at Silk who gave her a back body drop that sent her to the apron. Riley followed it up by connecting with a high kick that caught Silk and sent him to the mat. She then went to the corner and untied the top turnbuckle cover. Silk was now back up and then got a running start and caught Savell with a bicycle knee kick that sent her crashing from the apron to the floor.
Silk went to the outside after her. The two brawled around the ring with Silk getting the better of the exchange. Riley wasn’t done though in any way, shape, or form as she rammed Silk into the guardrail. She then rolled into the ring by the corner and laid there while the ref began to count. Silk made it back into the ring at seven and went to grab Riley who was now on her knees but she pulled him into the corner, sending him face first into the exposed turnbuckle. Silk was stunned and Riley rolled him up for a pin, while the ref wasn’t looking she placed her legs on the second rope for extra leverage and got the three count.
Winner: Riley Savell
______________________________________________________________________________
Backstage Elijah Carlson is dressed and ready to go for the action that will come later in the evening and I know, you’re probably thinking oh no here comes another backstage segment where the person just drones on and on about their match and how they’re the best. And, well, it’s true that that is almost what this was going to be. But then Eli spotted a mess of blonde hair around a nearby corner and his whole attitude shifted. Not to mention that you all already know that Eli is the best and that he’s going to win his match, right? RIGHT?! Of course you do. Anyway, back to what really matters and that’s the SAP World Champion coming around the corner to find one Leela Watts with a bright smile on her face, talking to counterpart Danny Rizzo. Immediately, Eli rolled his eyes.
Elijah Carlson: “Really? Get a room. What are you some kind of voyeur?”
Immediately Rizzo tensed, ready for a fight like he always seemed to be lately. If you don’t know about him check out Valor Pro. You’ll get to see a cow actually carrying a championship belt, it’s wild. Anyhow, Leela responded politely but firmly.
Leela Watts: “Do you always have to be so mean, Eli? Can’t you just mind your own business?”
Slamming to a halt, Eli took a few steps back and meet her gaze.
Elijah Carlson: “Oh, right. Apologies. I’m sorry that the last thing I want to see on my show is two people making out like high schoolers in the hallway. Well guess what. I’m the principle and I say that shit isn’t going to fly around here. Clean your act up. Besides, you’ve got a big match with big momma Blaise coming up. I would think you’d be more focused on that.”
Leela’s cheeks flushed for a moment but she straightened against the assault on her character and focus and responded sharply.
Leela Watts: “And I think you would be more focused on not losing your championship after only having it officially for one day.”
Rizzo, moving to stand beside her, offered a grin that said he wasn’t about to be as polite as Leela was being.
Danny Rizzo: “Yeah… would be terrible if your championship reign ended.. Prematurely. You can take medicine for your other problem, but that one… not so much.”
Eli’s expression soured immediately and he took a step closer to the two.
Elijah Carlson: “You’re walking a fine line, cow-man. It would be terrible if your own foolishness came back to bite your little barbie now, wouldn’t it?”
A hard stare was shared for a moment longer before Eli nodded his head, taking the silence for them understanding the warning he had just sent as he walked off the rest of the way down the hallway.
______________________________________________________________________________
International Championship Tournament Match
Blaise Fader vs. Leela Watts
The crowd was split for this one as it started with alternating let’s go chants. Both had smiling faces and they slapped hands in the ring before locking up. Blaise pushed Leela into the corner and gave a clean break. Leela though came out like a firecracker and took Fader to the mat with a double leg takedown. The two chained for a short bit before they got back to their feet and Fader hit a belly to belly suplex.
Blaise then grabbed hold of Leela looking for a back suplex but Watts flipped back onto her feet and headed for the ropes. Watts rebounded and connected with a dropkick that sent Blaise down. Leela didn’t stop there and headed for the ropes again this time looking for a lionsault but Blaise managed to roll out of the way. Once on her feet Fader charged at Watts looking for a lariat but Leela jumped up and rolled Blaise over with a crucifix. Watts then darted for the ropes and rebounded catching Fader who was now on her knees with a yakuza kick to the head.
Leela then went right to the top rope and delivered an elbow drop. She went for a cover but Blaise kicked out. Watts then went for a swinging neckbreaker but Fader broke free and caught Watts with a stiff forearm. She followed it up with locking Leela into a bear hug. Fader was squeezing hard and Watts knew that she couldn’t stay here for long. Watts began to fire away on Blaise over and over until finally she broke free.
Blaise just wasn’t going to let her walk away though and hurled a European uppercut her way which sent her back stumbling. Watts was ready for the fight and came back with a hard kick to the chest of Blaise. The two went back and forth and the crowd was eating up every second of it. Leela started to pull ahead landing a number of kicks in a row and the pain of Blaise’s face showed they were effective. Fader swung for another hard lariat but again Leela saw it coming and ducked underneath her before jumping up her back and connecting with a “Leela Bomb” (poisoned frankensteiner). She then make the cover and got the three count.
Winner: Leela Watts
______________________________________________________________________________
The SAP cameras cut to the rooftop of some building overlooking the arena itself. The sky is dark, the city illuminated. Melissa Reeves walks into view, sporting an SAP shirt and sunglasses.
Melissa: "I know what you're thinking...why the hell are we out here"
She reaches out and forcefully pans the camera to look mostly past her, toward the arena.
Melissa: "I get it, it's a fair question. But to understand why we're out on this roof, you need to be invited into here."
She taps her temple.
Melissa: "Look there. The arena...and within it the crowd, the competitors, the action and the excitement. Then there's me; here, alone and on the outside. That's how it's been for me with SAP for a long time, I've been on the outside looking in. But that ends tonight. Tonight I return to the company and not as a freshly healed, wide-eyed, relatively unknown talent - as I was when I first joined - but now as a decorated competitor. See, in the time I spent away from here? I soared, I excelled, I achieved. But now I will prove that I can conquer SAP too, I will prove that I could have been gaining that glory and success here too."
For a few moments she is almost shouting, but her voice soon calms again.
Melissa: "You only need to look at where I am on this card to see that, even this early in, SAP are only too aware my talent. Of course they are, why wouldn't they be? Only an absolute idiot would try to overlook facts and the FACTS are that, both in Underground and Millennium, I have clawed my way toward the top of the respective piles, stepping on anyone I needed to in order to get there. Why would it be any different here?"
She shrugs.
Melissa: "But unlike those places, the boss here isn't an absolute tool. No, I am afforded the proper level of respect here in SAP, treated as I should be. So I'm in this tournament for the SAP International Championship, and like anything I'm ever involved in...I'm in this to win it."
Licking across her lips, Reeves slightly smirks.
Melissa: "Which brings me neatly to Brendan Samuels. This may be a new place for me to compete in, but that is a very familiar name. The Navigator himself, here in SAP just as he is in Underground. What can I say about the guy that you lot don't already know?"
With a little shrug, she laughs.
Melissa: "He's a talented guy, that right there is a fact. There's no doubting it, the guy has been making a name for himself. But is he me?"
She scoffs.
Melissa: "No. Is he going to beat me? No. Is he going to use me as a stepping stone toward regaining greatness here in SAP?"
Grabbing the camera, she leans in closer, her voice cold and stern.
Melissa: "No, no, no."
She steps back again, away from the camera.
Melissa: "See, as much as I respect the guy and his talents - and believe me, I do - I have no intention of my return to SAP being marred by a loss to him. No, I will beat him. I will advance to the next round of this tournament and I will go on and on until that title is around this waist."
Reeves motions across her midriff.
Melissa: "No matter what needs to be done, I will ensure that it is done. My march toward success will never be halted, no matter what must be done to fuel my advance. And Brendan Samuels? You're simply my first victim here."
Smirking again, Reeves looks back to the arena.
Melissa: "It's good be home."
And the scene cuts to the next part of the show.
______________________________________________________________________________
Brendan Samuels: National… North American… International…
The camera picks up Brendan Samuels backstage, already attired in his sea blue ring gear, naval symbols on his trunks and boots, and also attired with an open Hawaiian shirt. He glares at the camera, his cold icy eyes cutting a hole through the lens, and he carries his black flag along with him.
Brendan Samuels: It would be quite the voyage, wouldn’t it? A logical step forward if there ever was one. And while there may be a shred of disappointment echoing around that on the first show back in over a year, disappointment over the fact that I dinnae ‘ave the chance to right the wrongs committed on that fateful night last year. But what is done, is done, an’ it all be about what is done next that matters most. And what matters most is that the Kraken will raise his flag once more in a SAP Arena, do what I do best, and ye all know what that is.
Samuels responded with a smile, his fingers drumming upon the wall behind him.
Brendan Samuels: It be interestin’ to me what my opponent had to say at the recent press conference. While I can respect the talent and skill that Melissa Reeves has, and she does have it in spades, I have always seen one problem with her. Aye, she may be going to the Main Event of Underground’s biggest show of the year, but that were awarded for interfering in a match, not for her own ring work. It ain’t even this new ruthless streak of hers, twisting the rules and travelling down the dark path. And it isn’t the fact that I think she underestimates her opponents, cause while many say that of her, I dinnae believe that to be true.
Brendan wagged his finger, before raising his black flag high, displaying the Kraken and Crossbones, the word ‘Beneath’ stitched into the material.
Brendan Samuels: I think that she overestimates her own ability. In fact, I know she does. She is a victim of her own hype, and that hype has drilled itself into her head. She’s good, no doubt. But she isn’t great. And she certainly isn;t The Wrestling… She may go around at that press conference, calling me nuthin’ more than a gimmick, attempting to mock the names given to me, mock my accent, my hertiage. But this ain’t no gimmick, ‘Reaver’, this is who I am. This is what I do. I was born and raised on the waves of the ocean, and I were baptised in a wrestling ring. I live by the standards set before me by me Da, Priest Samuels, and he taught me that nuthin’ comes for those that are desperate enough to take a shortcut. An’ for ye, that any means necessary line screams of it. Naw, ye are a smart lass, everyone knows that, but if ye think for one second that those tricks and traps are gonna work on the Navigator, ye clearly weren’t thinkin’ straight when ye stowed away on me ship. My name is Brendan Samuels, and ye will know it well by the end of the night. I am bringing professional wrestling back to Spirit and Pride, for I am The Wrestling… And I’m flying the flag International.
And with that, Brendan turned to leave, flying his flag high, more than ready for the opening round of the International Title tournament.
______________________________________________________________________________
International Championship Tournament Match
Brendan Samuels vs. Melissa Reeves
There was no question who the crowd was behind in this one as the black flags could be seen flying throughout the arena. The chant of “His Name is Brendan” filling every corner. Mel on the other hand could care less because as soon as that bell rang she was sprinting across the ring and caught Samuels with a boot to the face that dropped him into the corner. She followed it up with a series of stiff forearms.
The boos were raining in on Reeves who responded with a middle finger to the crowd. What she didn’t see during that time was Samuels coming out of the corner and as she turned around she was flattened by an axe bomber. Samuels then hit the ropes and dropped the knee onto the head of Reeves who writhed around. Samuels began to pull her up but she broke away and hit a spinning kick to the gut of the kraken and followed it up with a flowing ddt.
Reeves transitioned into a crossface. Samuels had to push and claw but he made it to the ropes. Reeves didn’t exactly break clean and gave a few stomps to the neck before finally backing away. Samuels made it back to his feet and Reeves cane charging right at him. Samuels grabbed Reeves by the waist and connected with a northern lights suplex but couldn’t hold the bridge because of the neck that Reeves had been working over.
The two made it back to their feet and Samuels lit Reeves up with a huge backhand chop. Reeves wasn’t backing down though and drove a forearm into the neck of Samuels. The two went back and forth with Melissa getting the best of the exchange as she continued to drive hard shots into the neck of Brendan. Reeves then took a few steps back and went for “Facial Deconstructor” (codebreaker) but Samuels refused to go down and held on. Instead he maneuvered her around and managed to hit a fisherman’s buster. Samuels held onto his neck but knew this was his chance he pulled a groggy Melissa up and connected with “Mac Lir” (millennium suplex). Samuels made the cover and got the three count.
Winner: Brendan Samuels
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World Championship Match
Elijah Carlson vs. Nick Redfield
The crowd made it clear that Elijah Carlson was not their favorite person that night, and all it did was make him smile. He met Nick in the middle of the ring and the two locked up. The two went through some quick chaining and Carlson would up taking back control and topped it off with a few slaps to the back of Redfield’s head before standing up with a cheeky look on his face. Nick got up and looked angry. Eli was able to bait him into charging him and nailed Nick with a hard kick to the gut followed by a snap suplex.
Carlson got Redfield in the corner and began to unleash a series of hard kicks to his chest. Nick wasn’t taking this long however as he grabbed the leg of Carlson and then tripped the other following that up with a double stomp to the chest of the champion. It looked like Carlson had the wind knocked out of him and Nick wasn’t going to let the opportunity slide. He quickly went to the top rope and connected with a flying leg drop. He went for a cover but only got a two count.
Redfield took a breath and then went to pull Carlson up but the champ broke free and connected with a hard hand to the jaw of the challenger that dropped him. Elijah then leaned on the ropes for a second holding his chest. Once Redfield sat up though it was back to business as the champ rebounded on the ropes and nailed the challenger with a hard knee to the face. Carlson kept up the heat and pulled Redfield to his feet and connected with an inverted Russian leg sweep. He went for the cover but Nick kicked out at two.
Elijah looked frustrated while Nick looked like he was hurting yet determined. The two stood up and began to go back and forth. Nick got his second wind and began to drill Carlson with knee after knee to the gut leaving him doubled over. Redfield then once again headed for the top rope this time doing for the “Alabama Hot Pocket” (tip rope rocker dropper) but Eli knew it was coming and moved out of the way with a smirk on his face.
As Nick hit the mad on his bottom hard Carlson had things in mind. He darted for the ropes as Redfield started to get up. Once Nick was on his feet he didn’t have much time to react because Carlson had already hit the ropes and was now hitting him with “Red Light Special” (sick kick). Redfield was out and Carlson made the cover and got the three. The boos rained in but once again Elijah didn’t care at all. The show ended with the champ raising the title high in the air with a big smile on his face.
Winner and still champion: Elijah Carlson