Post by Jade Night on Mar 19, 2021 4:43:16 GMT
Liberty Pro Presents...
Episode Nine of Freedom
Live from the the National Sports Center
in Douglas, the Isle of Man
On Tuesday, March 9th, 2021
Episode Nine of Freedom
Live from the the National Sports Center
in Douglas, the Isle of Man
On Tuesday, March 9th, 2021
OPENING SEGMENT
The show opens with ROTTEN standing in the ring - or at least some of them. Rory and Micaela are leaning against the ropes, the Tag Team Championships slung over their shoulders, while Donovan paces back and forth with a steely expression. Oliver Thurston-Knott is slumped against a turnbuckle, Clara at his side. She hands him a microphone and OTK taps it several times more than necessary to a chorus of boos.
OTK: They called it No Man’s Land... well we certainly planted our flag, didn’t we? Liberty is ROTTEN. But it always has been, we just aim the spotlight. We show the true face of your masters and it's a sight as hideous as their scripted words are false. Don’t you ever wonder why corporations spend so much money on PR? Wake up. From the shareholders to the management right down to its hapless workers, Liberty is a despicable organisation.
He pauses to nod glumly for emphasis.
OTK: But now we’ve got you thinking; I see a glint of rebellion in the eyes of this roster. They are starting to question things they never have before. Even if it’s driven by self-interest, some of them are wondering whether or not it’s worth opposing this movement. No one wants to back the losing side in war and when it matters, ROTTEN keeps winning. That minor setback on night one was swiftly corrected and we’re back in possession of Liberty property.
Oliver gestures towards Rory and Micaela - who hold their belts up to another round of jeers.
OTK: More and more people are taking notice. Some of them are reaching out - not only for our help but to offer themselves for our cause. With this second wave, we can expand across three fronts: Freedom, Liberation and Independence. The bigger our platform the wider our message spreads and the more our numbers swell. Every time we appear on Liberty programming, we’re shifting the Overton window. Today it’s defending workers rights, standing up to corporate America, tomorrow it’s putting the filth up against the wall.
He stops again, this time with the flicker of a smile.
OTK: But one step at a time, eh? For now, Liberty has our focus. We’re pressing management - in more ways than one - to highlight their deficiencies, a little nudge towards the edge. There are some imbeciles on this roster but the majority of them have the potential to see from our perspective. They will be watching as their General Managers lose control of brands, workers and even themselves. Amidst the inevitable chaos, who will they turn to for direction?
With a wider smile, he brushes some strands of long hair out of his face.
OTK: As I said, one step at a time. Tonight we have a rare opportunity. Honestly I was surprised to see Micaela’s name in the main event - for another championship no less. Of course she has the ability to compete there but it’s not like Liberty to elevate our platform. These corporations are caught between profitising and suppressing ROTTEN; Sean must think this match is a calculated risk but it’s about to blow up in his face. Micaela as Freedom Champion will be great optics - for us. We have two belts already, we’re about to take another. How can Liberty resist our message when we are their flag bearers? Remember - the fish rots from the head.
He chuckles, laying the microphone on the canvas and then rolling through the ropes.
The show opens with ROTTEN standing in the ring - or at least some of them. Rory and Micaela are leaning against the ropes, the Tag Team Championships slung over their shoulders, while Donovan paces back and forth with a steely expression. Oliver Thurston-Knott is slumped against a turnbuckle, Clara at his side. She hands him a microphone and OTK taps it several times more than necessary to a chorus of boos.
OTK: They called it No Man’s Land... well we certainly planted our flag, didn’t we? Liberty is ROTTEN. But it always has been, we just aim the spotlight. We show the true face of your masters and it's a sight as hideous as their scripted words are false. Don’t you ever wonder why corporations spend so much money on PR? Wake up. From the shareholders to the management right down to its hapless workers, Liberty is a despicable organisation.
He pauses to nod glumly for emphasis.
OTK: But now we’ve got you thinking; I see a glint of rebellion in the eyes of this roster. They are starting to question things they never have before. Even if it’s driven by self-interest, some of them are wondering whether or not it’s worth opposing this movement. No one wants to back the losing side in war and when it matters, ROTTEN keeps winning. That minor setback on night one was swiftly corrected and we’re back in possession of Liberty property.
Oliver gestures towards Rory and Micaela - who hold their belts up to another round of jeers.
OTK: More and more people are taking notice. Some of them are reaching out - not only for our help but to offer themselves for our cause. With this second wave, we can expand across three fronts: Freedom, Liberation and Independence. The bigger our platform the wider our message spreads and the more our numbers swell. Every time we appear on Liberty programming, we’re shifting the Overton window. Today it’s defending workers rights, standing up to corporate America, tomorrow it’s putting the filth up against the wall.
He stops again, this time with the flicker of a smile.
OTK: But one step at a time, eh? For now, Liberty has our focus. We’re pressing management - in more ways than one - to highlight their deficiencies, a little nudge towards the edge. There are some imbeciles on this roster but the majority of them have the potential to see from our perspective. They will be watching as their General Managers lose control of brands, workers and even themselves. Amidst the inevitable chaos, who will they turn to for direction?
With a wider smile, he brushes some strands of long hair out of his face.
OTK: As I said, one step at a time. Tonight we have a rare opportunity. Honestly I was surprised to see Micaela’s name in the main event - for another championship no less. Of course she has the ability to compete there but it’s not like Liberty to elevate our platform. These corporations are caught between profitising and suppressing ROTTEN; Sean must think this match is a calculated risk but it’s about to blow up in his face. Micaela as Freedom Champion will be great optics - for us. We have two belts already, we’re about to take another. How can Liberty resist our message when we are their flag bearers? Remember - the fish rots from the head.
He chuckles, laying the microphone on the canvas and then rolling through the ropes.
MATCH ONE: SINGLES
Coby Quik vs Donovan Rich
Coby Quik vs Donovan Rich
RECAP The match got underway with the two wrestlers circling each other, trying to get a feel of each other. Coby seemed to be trying to analyze Donovan, who was moving around seemingly at random, grinning widely the entire time. Eventually Coby just charged in towards Donovan and was met with some stiff strikes that staggered him. This allowed Donovan to take control of the match for the first few minutes of the match with his powerful style. He caught Coby with some kicks and strikes, before Rich finally managed to ground Coby with a snap DDT. Donovan went for the cover but Coby kicked out quickly after the first count. Instead of getting back to his feet, Donovan stayed on the ground with Coby, locking him in a headlock. It wasn’t long before Coby was able to free himself and kick Rich away from him. Coby stood up and quickly ran at Donovan, grabbing him and began to deliver shot after shot to the side of her head, backing Donovan up into the corner. Now it was Quik’s turn to take advantage and keep Donovan on his heels as the crowd cheered him on while he outbrawled Rich in the corner. Donovan eventually managed to get Coby off of him to get some time to gather herself. Coby didnt wait as he ran and jumped at Donovan, trying to lock in a flying triangle choke. But while he was attempting to lock it in, Donovan managed to reach out and rake his eyes out of the referees view. Coby fell to the mat in pain as Rich began to stomp away at him to regain control of the match. He managed to keep control with some quick moves, including a snap suplex that knocked Coby flat on his back. Donovan dropped down and hooked his legs, as the referee made a two count before Coby powered his shoulder up. Donovan looked frustrated as he got to his feet to argue with the referee a bit. Eventually he turned his attention back to Coby, who was getting to his feet. Donovan grabbed the back of Cobys head, looking to go for a big move but Coby managed to push him off of him before he could bring him down to the mat. Rich hit hard but popped up quickly. He turned around and ran right into a flying lariat from Coby. Donovan once again popped up quickly and was met with a spinning back elbow that sent him flying across the ring. Coby was about to go for his big finish but NO! Sad Max is on the apron! Coby knocked him off but the whole thing distracted the referee and Rich low blowed Coby. He then pinned him and picked up the three count. WINNER Donovan Rich METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 12:10 FINISHING MOVE Pinfall |
BACKSTAGE
Standing deep in the bowels of the National Sports Centre, filing her nails while she ignores some techies slobbering and stammering at the sight of her is the 3x Anarchy champion.
It was a smaller venue than they were accustomed to, so with much of the work done , they've been dawdling once or twice.
When one of them trips up over some wiring, they remember themselves, and zoom right back to work.
A living muse in her glamorous D&P red dress, PPV speaks with her usual, melodious, slightly mocking tone.
“Complaints were made about who’s been selected for this contest. Questions raised over our worthiness to be the next #1 contender for the Freedom championship.”
Fortune’s Favourite lifts her gaze to us, and the cynicism is plain to see.
“Real talk - who gives a shit? Some of you forget the very brief history behind the Freedom title. So clean out the wax in your ears and listen up.”
She flaunts and admires her nails while she explains.
“Tonight, I will wrestle my sixth match in Liberty Pro this year. That’s as many matches Ruby Lance ever wrestled for Liberty. Six. Ruby Lance walked into the company and was handed a spot into the Freedom title’s inaugural tournament. Not even a spot in the first round, but the semi-final and won. Liberty Pro simps for her return to this day. All for a month and a half’s worth of work.”
She casually shrugs her shoulders with her palms open.
“Then this year on Freedom’s return show we saw 6 competitors randomly thrown into an Elimination Chamber. No buildup. No qualifying for entry. Just here you go. So really, who gives a shit? Liberty’s always been like this. Fortune didn’t side with you today. That’s all. Besides, firefighting accusations isn’t what I’m here for. I’m here to win my Freedom debut.”
Deep in the meat of her mind, that’s all PPV is focusing on. It’s March and she’s yet to win a match in LPW this year. She hasn’t won a televised LPW match since December 1st. Against what she'd call a well below average opponent. Making all that a distant memory was her priority.
“So many fresh faces. But a familiar few as well. Like Xavier’s best friend and the gal who’s been teasing her retirement for like half her career. I haven’t seen you two since Team GEW threw ourselves at your throats like wolves, like rabid dogs, to win War Games back in November. Heck, JD hasn’t said a peep this whole year.”
She titters, shaking her head like a stuffy history teacher .
“You’re taking the “strong and silent” bit too seriously, boo. Show us some personality. Give us something to go with all that brawn.”
She sighs softly.
“Anywho, after proving my worth as captain, I went on to win GEW’s Grand Championship. Then GEW closed soon after. What a pain. Well, all they have to do is open up and close again and they’ll have caught up to Liberty in that regard. Hey, maybe if I win the Freedom title, Liberty Pro will close down again too. Good riddance, I’d say. Liberty Pro could close tomorrow and I wouldn't even blink.”
She deadpans the camera for a long while, then returns to filing her nails.
“At any rate, I am the final representative of GEW. I was a top champion. Which means I ought to wrestle at a standard befitting that accomplishment. I ought to prove that was no fluke and so that’s what I’m here to do. Not because I care for being Freedom champion in particular. That would only happen if I was in a company that actually respects you as a champion. Imagine that. But we ain’t so I’m doing this because of my pride. Not a lotta people have that here. The same people who’d complain about my opportunities are the ones who’d forfeit matches or quit the company outta tantrums. While I bust my ass every week for this company. Who’s the real wrestler now? I can’t tell with half of you acting like spoiled IG influencers. Maybe that’s cos there aren’t actually many champions in this company”
Precious raises her hand, slowly wiggling her fingers.
“I can count all of Liberty's former singles champions on my right hand. And three of them are in this one match. There’s Helena and I, the two LPW veterans on the Freedom brand. It feels weird to call myself a vet, but the only one who's been in Liberty as long as I have is you, Helena. Two faces of the company and yet look at our position. The two of us can ill afford to lose tonight. My pride demands that I pull through one way or another. You’re trying for a third shot at the Freedom title in as many months. You really wouldn’t want to hang up your boots after losing 3 chances at the top prize. That would sting right? So it would be a massive pleasure to take that from you myself. Y’know, for the last few times we clashed."
"But I’d be remiss to forget to mention the other former champion in this bout. The girl I’m most looking forward to seeing again. My girl, Kaia."
PPV smiles faintly.
"You didn’t deserve to lose your title the way you did, but we know how this business works. I’m proud of you for the way you took it on your chin. You’ve showed your teeth to some of Liberty’s best before, I know you want this. This is oir first time butting heads but don't expect me to get sentimental out there. I'm shooting for the top like always. If I end up bonking ya on the head a few times, know i still dig you, boo."
Her eyes flash.
"But I'm gonna clap everybody out there. Arriverderci."
Standing deep in the bowels of the National Sports Centre, filing her nails while she ignores some techies slobbering and stammering at the sight of her is the 3x Anarchy champion.
It was a smaller venue than they were accustomed to, so with much of the work done , they've been dawdling once or twice.
When one of them trips up over some wiring, they remember themselves, and zoom right back to work.
A living muse in her glamorous D&P red dress, PPV speaks with her usual, melodious, slightly mocking tone.
“Complaints were made about who’s been selected for this contest. Questions raised over our worthiness to be the next #1 contender for the Freedom championship.”
Fortune’s Favourite lifts her gaze to us, and the cynicism is plain to see.
“Real talk - who gives a shit? Some of you forget the very brief history behind the Freedom title. So clean out the wax in your ears and listen up.”
She flaunts and admires her nails while she explains.
“Tonight, I will wrestle my sixth match in Liberty Pro this year. That’s as many matches Ruby Lance ever wrestled for Liberty. Six. Ruby Lance walked into the company and was handed a spot into the Freedom title’s inaugural tournament. Not even a spot in the first round, but the semi-final and won. Liberty Pro simps for her return to this day. All for a month and a half’s worth of work.”
She casually shrugs her shoulders with her palms open.
“Then this year on Freedom’s return show we saw 6 competitors randomly thrown into an Elimination Chamber. No buildup. No qualifying for entry. Just here you go. So really, who gives a shit? Liberty’s always been like this. Fortune didn’t side with you today. That’s all. Besides, firefighting accusations isn’t what I’m here for. I’m here to win my Freedom debut.”
Deep in the meat of her mind, that’s all PPV is focusing on. It’s March and she’s yet to win a match in LPW this year. She hasn’t won a televised LPW match since December 1st. Against what she'd call a well below average opponent. Making all that a distant memory was her priority.
“So many fresh faces. But a familiar few as well. Like Xavier’s best friend and the gal who’s been teasing her retirement for like half her career. I haven’t seen you two since Team GEW threw ourselves at your throats like wolves, like rabid dogs, to win War Games back in November. Heck, JD hasn’t said a peep this whole year.”
She titters, shaking her head like a stuffy history teacher .
“You’re taking the “strong and silent” bit too seriously, boo. Show us some personality. Give us something to go with all that brawn.”
She sighs softly.
“Anywho, after proving my worth as captain, I went on to win GEW’s Grand Championship. Then GEW closed soon after. What a pain. Well, all they have to do is open up and close again and they’ll have caught up to Liberty in that regard. Hey, maybe if I win the Freedom title, Liberty Pro will close down again too. Good riddance, I’d say. Liberty Pro could close tomorrow and I wouldn't even blink.”
She deadpans the camera for a long while, then returns to filing her nails.
“At any rate, I am the final representative of GEW. I was a top champion. Which means I ought to wrestle at a standard befitting that accomplishment. I ought to prove that was no fluke and so that’s what I’m here to do. Not because I care for being Freedom champion in particular. That would only happen if I was in a company that actually respects you as a champion. Imagine that. But we ain’t so I’m doing this because of my pride. Not a lotta people have that here. The same people who’d complain about my opportunities are the ones who’d forfeit matches or quit the company outta tantrums. While I bust my ass every week for this company. Who’s the real wrestler now? I can’t tell with half of you acting like spoiled IG influencers. Maybe that’s cos there aren’t actually many champions in this company”
Precious raises her hand, slowly wiggling her fingers.
“I can count all of Liberty's former singles champions on my right hand. And three of them are in this one match. There’s Helena and I, the two LPW veterans on the Freedom brand. It feels weird to call myself a vet, but the only one who's been in Liberty as long as I have is you, Helena. Two faces of the company and yet look at our position. The two of us can ill afford to lose tonight. My pride demands that I pull through one way or another. You’re trying for a third shot at the Freedom title in as many months. You really wouldn’t want to hang up your boots after losing 3 chances at the top prize. That would sting right? So it would be a massive pleasure to take that from you myself. Y’know, for the last few times we clashed."
"But I’d be remiss to forget to mention the other former champion in this bout. The girl I’m most looking forward to seeing again. My girl, Kaia."
PPV smiles faintly.
"You didn’t deserve to lose your title the way you did, but we know how this business works. I’m proud of you for the way you took it on your chin. You’ve showed your teeth to some of Liberty’s best before, I know you want this. This is oir first time butting heads but don't expect me to get sentimental out there. I'm shooting for the top like always. If I end up bonking ya on the head a few times, know i still dig you, boo."
Her eyes flash.
"But I'm gonna clap everybody out there. Arriverderci."
MATCH TWO: SINGLES
Alex Reeves vs Dex Morant
Alex Reeves vs Dex Morant
RECAP This match was quick paced, with Alex controlling the early portion of the contest with a flurry of strikes and kicks. Dexter tried countering a suplex, but Alex used her speed to counter it, before dropping him with a hurricanrana. Alex tried to stay on top of the ever popular Dexter Morant, but unfortunately for Reeves, Dex wasn't allowing it. He fought back hard until he had Alex backed into the corner and then he took her out with a snap suplex, which he followed up with a standing shooting star press. Dex pinned but Reeves showed resilience and kicked out. Dex picked Reeves up but she rolled him up! She kept him down for a two count but Morant managed to kick out. As they both got to their feet, Alex went for a superkick but Dexter saw it coming from a mile away and he ducked it. When Alex turned, Dexter hit her with a superkick of his own. He hit the top rope and went for Red X (630 Splash) but Reeves rolled out of the way! When Morant stirred but Alex leveled him with Leaping complete shot - Sweet Dreams! This should be over but Reeves wanted to make an example out of Morant and she locked in Horns of Aries -You’re a Goner! Morant had nowhere to go and he tapped out. Alex kept the hold in after the bell before letting go. She stood up and trash talked him before looking at the camera and yelling that she hoped Jenni was watching. WINNER Alex Reeves METHOD Submission MATCH LENGTH 6:48 FINISHING MOVE You’re A Goner |
MATCH THREE: SINGLES
Rory vs Ari Parker
Rory vs Ari Parker
RECAP The referee was waiting inside of the ring by himself as Rory’s music began to play but he never came out. Ari’s theme song then played next and she didn’t come out either. The referee stood there confused for a few moments before he turned toward the ringside crew and told them to call for the bell. The bell rings and the match is declared a no contest. WINNER No Contest METHOD N/A MATCH LENGTH N/A FINISHING MOVE N/A |
BACKSTAGE
We cut backstage and on the floor in a bloody mess is Rory of ROTTEN! He’s unconscious and next to him are a pair of boots. The camera pans up and standing there is Ari Parker, with Nathan Callaghan’s barbed wire bat in her hand. She has a sadistic smirk on her face as she looks down at Rory covered in blood, enjoying her handywork and exacting revenge for what happened to Liam Callaghan. We soon hear yelling and Ari quickly runs off. ROTTEN is soon on the scene, checking on Rory and yelling out for medical attention to show up but mysteriously… none do… The scene then cuts away.
We cut backstage and on the floor in a bloody mess is Rory of ROTTEN! He’s unconscious and next to him are a pair of boots. The camera pans up and standing there is Ari Parker, with Nathan Callaghan’s barbed wire bat in her hand. She has a sadistic smirk on her face as she looks down at Rory covered in blood, enjoying her handywork and exacting revenge for what happened to Liam Callaghan. We soon hear yelling and Ari quickly runs off. ROTTEN is soon on the scene, checking on Rory and yelling out for medical attention to show up but mysteriously… none do… The scene then cuts away.
BACKSTAGE
Backstage at the National Sports Center, Mighty Sparrow is shooting a few pinpoint kicks to the air, one-two-three, one-two-three, three-two-one, three-two-one in quick succession. The King of New York champion breathes out slowly, very slowly lowered his leg. Tonight’s ring gear of choice is a bright purple, hot pink, and black with rhinestones and studs similar to that of how one might dressTrinidad’s carnival. After a moment Sparrow stands on both legs. The King of New York champion exhales through his nostrils, flaring slightly.
Sparrow: I been facin’ family men since I got this championship. Rich. JPK. ...Y’know, I might have to say I ain’t exactly think Brady counts as a family man, but he insulted the gloriousness that is Old Navy so I can’t really get down with that.
From off-camera Sparrow reaches for the championship and hefts it. The side plates with the images of chopped cheese, the NY Giants Logo, A Ghostface Killah picture, and the Statue of Liberty shine bright. The main plate however has finally been replaced. That NY 27 sign has been substituted for a white gold plate that only imitates a street sign.
Sparrow: You could say I might have forgotten what it’s like, engagin’ as they does say, with a man who has no family, he has no mouths to feed, he has no house to keep in order. He just wants to win. He will be heard no matter what, he will make a mark off me, no matter what. Let me not dare ever...Underestimate him, but...But, he can do so because according to him, it’s all over but the cryin’. Mmm. Don’t take him seriously but take him seriously. I suppose...Mmm.
The side of the Caribbean wrestler’s lip twitches to the side.
Sparrow: I suppose one choice would be to correct
Backstage at the National Sports Center, Mighty Sparrow is shooting a few pinpoint kicks to the air, one-two-three, one-two-three, three-two-one, three-two-one in quick succession. The King of New York champion breathes out slowly, very slowly lowered his leg. Tonight’s ring gear of choice is a bright purple, hot pink, and black with rhinestones and studs similar to that of how one might dressTrinidad’s carnival. After a moment Sparrow stands on both legs. The King of New York champion exhales through his nostrils, flaring slightly.
Sparrow: I been facin’ family men since I got this championship. Rich. JPK. ...Y’know, I might have to say I ain’t exactly think Brady counts as a family man, but he insulted the gloriousness that is Old Navy so I can’t really get down with that.
From off-camera Sparrow reaches for the championship and hefts it. The side plates with the images of chopped cheese, the NY Giants Logo, A Ghostface Killah picture, and the Statue of Liberty shine bright. The main plate however has finally been replaced. That NY 27 sign has been substituted for a white gold plate that only imitates a street sign.
Sparrow: You could say I might have forgotten what it’s like, engagin’ as they does say, with a man who has no family, he has no mouths to feed, he has no house to keep in order. He just wants to win. He will be heard no matter what, he will make a mark off me, no matter what. Let me not dare ever...Underestimate him, but...But, he can do so because according to him, it’s all over but the cryin’. Mmm. Don’t take him seriously but take him seriously. I suppose...Mmm.
The side of the Caribbean wrestler’s lip twitches to the side.
Sparrow: I suppose one choice would be to correct
Suddenly Michael Marou comes into the frame. His gear is in major contrast with Sparrow’s as he keeps it simple with wrestling shoes, black fighting shorts and his signature black shirt with ‘Fuck Failure’ emblazoned with red vinyl.
Marou: You Still don’t seem to understand, cap’n Jack. You keep making mistake after mistake and the bell hasn’t rung yet. So I’ll simplify it for you. The tweets. The words. The receipts. None of that means a damn thing. What happens in the ring tonight… that’s all that matters. This ain’t about you, Sparrow. This is about me. My debut. The impact that I’m making. Because I’m takin’ over Liberty…. and it starts with this.
Michael steps in closer to Sparrow, probably too close. He reaches up his right hand and pats the King of New York title.
Marou: So make whatever choice you want. Talk up your receipts… act like you have enough fight in you. End of the day… that strap is goin on my waist. And it ain’t tonight. We both know that. But by the end of tonight, all of New York will know I’m it’s next King.”
Michael smirks as he stands toe to toe with Sparrow. They lock eyes, neither man willing to be the first one to back down. Sparrow takes note of the smirk and doesn’t entirely react. For a moment it looks as though he’s going to say something snide or vicious. The side of his mouth twitches and finally...
Sparrow: Can--Can you call me something more creative than that, please?
There’s a beat of silence, save for maybe the cameraman having to stifle a laugh.
Sparrow: Here we are doin’ this thing bana and you’re in my face and you know, the whole ‘I’ll take what’s yours, we both know how this ends’ and so on, and just...You really go off the rails with the Cap’n Jack thing. It’s not...It’s an outdated thing. It like--my name isn’t even from Pirates of the Caribbean. It’s a tribute to the King of Caribbean Music. Those were terrible movies after the second one. You wanna say you’ll take the title and get on as you get on, fine but jeez-an-ages something more biting than a series of two good movies followed by three awful ones.
Michael can’t help but laugh, knowing too well that the conversation isn’t going how he had planned.
Marou: First off, those movies were great. Secondly, the dumb ass nicknames I may throw your way don’t change a damn thing. I’ll call ya cap’n, Jackie, Johnny Depp himself. After tonight, you’ll just be the first L given out my Michael Marou in Liberty. And when I’m done with ya, you’ll just be known as the former king of New York.
Michael takes half a step back, the arrogant smirk on his face never wavering.
Marou: Deflect all you want man. Focus on the names. But realize this… you got one motherfucker barkin up your tree that you ain’t ready for. I could stand here all night and sing your praises. I know what I’m up against. I know how good you are. I just don’t think you know what you’re up against. And if I’m right, it’s gonna cost ya.
Sparrow: ...
After a few moments of looking him over, the King of New York champion closed his eyes before rolling his shoulders. He shifted his championship on his shoulder and...Attempted congeniality. He extended a hand to shake.
Sparrow: Good luck.
Michael looks down at Sparrow's hand, contemplating his next move. With that cocky smirk still plastered across his face, he reaches his hand forward with a firm, probably too aggressive, handshake.
Marou: Right back at ya, Sparrow.
Michael releases his opponent's hand and turns to walk away. The King of New York champion watches him walk away without a word. Sparrow is still as stone, though his hand flexes briefly.[/div]
BACKSTAGE
Somewhere quiet and isolated backstage is Jennifer Yang. All dressed in her ring attire, she stares intently into the camera without saying a word at first. The battle wounds from her match with Alex Reeves at No Man’s Land II have recovered but they have left their mark on her, including the cuts above her eyebrow and on the bridge of her nose and bruises on her left cheek. Finally, she breaks her gaze towards something offscreen before she begins to speak.
Jennifer Yang: Facing off Jordan Parker Kane tonight. I’m not a 100%, no. Maybe 70, 75. That’s good enough. Gotta be optimistic, y’know?
She scoffs at her own sarcasm then quickly shakes her head, regretting going there. With a slight grimace, she can almost hear Alex’s mocking laughter at the word ‘optimistic’.
Jennifer Yang: So yeah, uh, I may not be at top health but I’m still good to go for a match tonight. Which means I’m ready to give as much as Jordan’s willing to. That was a brutal Iron Man match, by the way. He didn’t win the gold but he won the hearts of the fans for lasting that long. I respect that. And I uh...
She takes a quick pause, as if contemplating something. Then she clears her throat.
Jennifer Yang: I look forward to seeing you in the ring, Jordan. Let’s put on a show, okay? Cool.
With that, she rushes out of there. But not before the camera catches the troubled expression on her face.
Somewhere quiet and isolated backstage is Jennifer Yang. All dressed in her ring attire, she stares intently into the camera without saying a word at first. The battle wounds from her match with Alex Reeves at No Man’s Land II have recovered but they have left their mark on her, including the cuts above her eyebrow and on the bridge of her nose and bruises on her left cheek. Finally, she breaks her gaze towards something offscreen before she begins to speak.
Jennifer Yang: Facing off Jordan Parker Kane tonight. I’m not a 100%, no. Maybe 70, 75. That’s good enough. Gotta be optimistic, y’know?
She scoffs at her own sarcasm then quickly shakes her head, regretting going there. With a slight grimace, she can almost hear Alex’s mocking laughter at the word ‘optimistic’.
Jennifer Yang: So yeah, uh, I may not be at top health but I’m still good to go for a match tonight. Which means I’m ready to give as much as Jordan’s willing to. That was a brutal Iron Man match, by the way. He didn’t win the gold but he won the hearts of the fans for lasting that long. I respect that. And I uh...
She takes a quick pause, as if contemplating something. Then she clears her throat.
Jennifer Yang: I look forward to seeing you in the ring, Jordan. Let’s put on a show, okay? Cool.
With that, she rushes out of there. But not before the camera catches the troubled expression on her face.
MATCH FOUR: SINGLES
JPK vs Jennifer Yang
JPK vs Jennifer Yang
RECAP The crowd was behind Jennifer Yang unanimously. Jennifer looked as talented as ever as the match got underway as she showed off her skill but JPK wasn’t going down without a fight though. Parker-Kane took Jenni down quickly, trying to wear the former champion of MWE down with an array of technical maneuvers. Yang, no stranger to technical wrestling herself, managed to work out of Jordan’s figure-four, turning him over and cranking pressure on the legs of the young man from the legendary Kane family. Jordan grasped the rope, forcing the break. Both competitors were up quickly. Parker-Kane was immediately back on the attack, trying to bring down Jennifer Yang. Yang survived the onslaught, retreating to the corner, forcing Jordan to back away. Jennifer climbed to the second rope and leaped off with a European uppercut. She rolled over for a quick pin… kick out at two from JPK. Jordan was back up. The two tied up in the ring before Jordan pulled her in with a side headlock. He took her down with a snapmare, holding Jenni in with a sleeper. Jennifer faded for just a moment before collecting herself enough. She threw her head back, her skull colliding with Jordan’s nose. Jordan clamped harder on the hold, tightening his grip. Jenni bashed him again, and this time, Parker-Kane was forced to let go. Jenni stood. Jordan grabbed her by the wrist, throwing her to the ropes. Jenni rebounded back with a calf kick that took him down. As the match came to a close, Jordan found himself reeling after a flurry of strong kicks from the Nightfall standout. She tossed Jordan to the corner. Jenni charged in, driving a knee to the skull that dropped Jordan. Jennifer retreated. As Jordan slowly stood, stumbling to the center of the ring, Jennifer darted in. Parker-Kane sidestepped it, and went for a roundhouse. Jennifer scouted the move, ducking the kick and spinning out behind Jordan. Jordan turned around, right into a flurry of knees and punches from Jennifer, topped with that signature switchblade kick… #LOCKDOWN! Jordan dropped and Jennifer hooked the legs. One… two… three! WINNER Jennifer Yang METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 10:43 FINISHING MOVE #LOCKDOWN |
BACKSTAGE
Lizzie Jones appears on the arena screen, sitting on the roof of today’s venue. She pans the camera around the area, looking out at Douglas and the manx landscape.
“So this is what we were brought here for, huh? A 500 seat arena in the middle of nowhere.”
She turns the camera back to herself and shrugs.
“Makes great business sense to do that, awesome work.”
Sarcasm? Of course.
“But whatever. Tonight I have a few things to get off my chest. Let’s start with you, Jade Night. You step back into the role and, what, you’re taking ideas from Chuck now? It’s a real shame to see, I thought you’d be the better one in the role but it turns out if we’re not one of your chosen then fuck us. Then when questioned, you either make threats or subtweet about how you’re over arguing about petty stuff. It isn’t petty to watch your supposed boss taking advice from a fucking competitor and changing matches to suit him. You tell me to do my job and that’s rich. I DO my job, do you?”
She scoffs.
“So what, you drag me all the way here to fight Chuck Matthews in a match he asked for? And I’m expected to look at that and think ‘oh yeah, nothing seedy about all that’? I get you might not be the brightest and I’m well aware Chuck thinks the sun shines out of his own ass, but me? I’m not stupid enough to believe this is anything but a plan on his behalf that you’ve happily allowed. Is it a title match? Isn’t it? Do you even know? Do I even care?”
Said title is held aloft, Lizzie’s Liberty US Championship.
“Not that it matters either way, this is going back on the plane with me when I head back home after the show. Having to chop Chuck down to achieve that will be sweet, and showing Jade which of us is superior in the ring will only be sweeter still. You should have been smarter, Jade, but you aren’t. I expect what you did from the roster, but management? Na. You should have treated me with respect, instead you just pissed me off.”
She shakes her head.
“As for you Chuckles. Eh, what’s the point? I’m just going to kick your ass and go home to my loving family. I know you can’t relate to maybe I’ll send you a picture of what happiness looks like or something. You know, out of sympathy. No, not sympathy, pity. I pity you. For all of your accomplishments and all of your business bs, you’re not the first or last thought on anyone’s mind on any given day, ever. So, without anyone to remember you, what does it matter whether you achieve your goals or not? End of the day, you’ll be forgotten. Just like your challenge against me will be forgotten, another page in the annals of Liz Jones’ career. A story which already has far tougher chapters than facing you in a match that suits me can ever pose. So whatever your plan is, big brain, it won’t matter. I’m going to kick your ass for me, and I’m going to kick it for everything you’ve done wrong to your own flesh and blood.”
She turns the camera away one last time, getting a final shot of Douglas before cutting the feed.
Lizzie Jones appears on the arena screen, sitting on the roof of today’s venue. She pans the camera around the area, looking out at Douglas and the manx landscape.
“So this is what we were brought here for, huh? A 500 seat arena in the middle of nowhere.”
She turns the camera back to herself and shrugs.
“Makes great business sense to do that, awesome work.”
Sarcasm? Of course.
“But whatever. Tonight I have a few things to get off my chest. Let’s start with you, Jade Night. You step back into the role and, what, you’re taking ideas from Chuck now? It’s a real shame to see, I thought you’d be the better one in the role but it turns out if we’re not one of your chosen then fuck us. Then when questioned, you either make threats or subtweet about how you’re over arguing about petty stuff. It isn’t petty to watch your supposed boss taking advice from a fucking competitor and changing matches to suit him. You tell me to do my job and that’s rich. I DO my job, do you?”
She scoffs.
“So what, you drag me all the way here to fight Chuck Matthews in a match he asked for? And I’m expected to look at that and think ‘oh yeah, nothing seedy about all that’? I get you might not be the brightest and I’m well aware Chuck thinks the sun shines out of his own ass, but me? I’m not stupid enough to believe this is anything but a plan on his behalf that you’ve happily allowed. Is it a title match? Isn’t it? Do you even know? Do I even care?”
Said title is held aloft, Lizzie’s Liberty US Championship.
“Not that it matters either way, this is going back on the plane with me when I head back home after the show. Having to chop Chuck down to achieve that will be sweet, and showing Jade which of us is superior in the ring will only be sweeter still. You should have been smarter, Jade, but you aren’t. I expect what you did from the roster, but management? Na. You should have treated me with respect, instead you just pissed me off.”
She shakes her head.
“As for you Chuckles. Eh, what’s the point? I’m just going to kick your ass and go home to my loving family. I know you can’t relate to maybe I’ll send you a picture of what happiness looks like or something. You know, out of sympathy. No, not sympathy, pity. I pity you. For all of your accomplishments and all of your business bs, you’re not the first or last thought on anyone’s mind on any given day, ever. So, without anyone to remember you, what does it matter whether you achieve your goals or not? End of the day, you’ll be forgotten. Just like your challenge against me will be forgotten, another page in the annals of Liz Jones’ career. A story which already has far tougher chapters than facing you in a match that suits me can ever pose. So whatever your plan is, big brain, it won’t matter. I’m going to kick your ass for me, and I’m going to kick it for everything you’ve done wrong to your own flesh and blood.”
She turns the camera away one last time, getting a final shot of Douglas before cutting the feed.
MATCH FIVE: SINGLES
Michael Marou vs Mighty Sparrow
Michael Marou vs Mighty Sparrow
RECAP The match begins with Michael Marou swinging wildly and overwhelming Mighty Sparrow. Sparrow gets his arms up to take the brunt of the attack, but gets backed into the corner quickly. Marou goes for a shoulder thrust but Sparrow is able to go up and over, rolling down Marou into a school boy for a nearfall. Both men spring to their feet and Sparrow is quicker to the punch with a clothesline that puts Marou down. Marou jumps up into another clothesline and finally one-legged dropkick. Sparrow is feeling it as he heads to the top rope but it's too soon and Marou hits the ropes to interrupt his climb. Marou springs off the middle rope and hits a stiff kick that sends Sparrow tumbling from the top turnbuckle all the way to the floor below. Sparrow is in a daze as he gets to his feet and Marou flies through the ropes, taking Sparrow down with a suicide dive. The crowd is all over Marou as he pummels Sparrow at ringside with closed fists until the referee comes out to physically restrain him and warn about the closed fists. The count is eventually started but Marou hoists Sparrow onto his shoulders only for Sparrow to slip down his back. He shoves Marou, sending him face-first into the ring post. Sparrow crawls towards the ring and dives back inside. Marou catches his foot and drags him right back out, dropping him carelessly on the floor at ringside. Marou hits a standing senton onto Sparrow's back. He drags the champion up to his feet and runs him back-first into the announce table and then ragdoll tosses him aside. Marou quickly clears the table and gets a twisted smile on his face as he looks down at Sparrow. Sparrow is pulled to his feet, knocking Marou's arms aside and battering him with forearm shots. He gets a running start and blasts Marou with a hard forearm that lays him across the table. Sparrow rolls back into the ring, climbing to the top rope fueled by the cheers from the crowd. Sparrow nods his head a few times and launches himself with an elbow drop right to Marou's heart that crashes them both through the table. After checking on both men, the referee starts the count on them. Sparrow makes the long crawl back into the ring, sliding in only to once again get caught. He turns around in surprise at Marou on his feet holding on Sparrow's leg. Sparrow sends his free boot into Marou's face and scrambles into the ring. Marou follows after and delivers a calf kick to the champion. He snatches Sparrow up with surprising speed and delivers the Court Martial(sit out pile driver) in the middle of the ring. Sparrow is laid out but Marou is unable to capitalize. Neither man moves and the referee starts the ten count on them. Sparrow eventually drags himself up at the count of seven and Marou is able to do the same with the use of the ropes at the count of nine. Sparrow nails a running forearm in the corner followed by a Northern Lights Suplex with a bridge but Marou kicks out before three. Marou breaks out of Sparrow's hold and transitions into a Koji Clutch. Sparrow fights against the hold, managing to get to the nearby ropes before it's completely locked in. Marou stomps away on Sparrow's back, delivering more damage. He drags him into the middle of the ring and sets up a pump handle but Sparrow slips down his back, holding onto his arm to deliver the Wristlock Reverse DDT. Sparrow makes another cover but somehow Marou kicks out just before three. Sparrow slaps his forearm a few times as he readies himself for Marou to get to his feet. Marou is up and Sparrow spins with the forearm only for Marou to duck and hit a rolling German suplex. Marou hits a standing moonsault but Sparrow kicks out from the pin just before three and the kickout is so strong that Marou backs into the referee and knocks him down. Sparrow gets up and Michael pokes him in the eye and nails another Court Martial! He pins and gets the three count and upset victory over the KONY Champion! WINNER Michael Marou METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 16:10 FINISHING MOVE Court Martial |
BACKSTAGE
Never one to really give interviews, Helena Noir was surprisingly standing next to Tim Anderson tonight.
Tim Anderson: “Good evening ladies and gentlemen and welcome to episode nine of Freedom. Joining me tonight, and that’s quite the news itself, it’s the former and longest reigning Liberty champion, Helena Noir.
Wearing a classic Last Rites Tattoo Theatre hoodie, Helena nodded at the camera.
Helena Noir: “Good evening everyone and thanks for having me, Tim.”
Tim Anderson: “I’d say the honor is mine, considering your proverbial reluctance in speaking to us humble interviewers…”
His tone is obviously ironic, intended to take some edge off. But the joke didn’t quite land with Helena, who shot a cold glare at the interviewer.
Tim Anderson: “Right... So, why don’t we start from No Man’s Land II? You challenged TJ Techniques for the Freedom championship, and came up short. Any words regarding that match?
Helena shrugged her shoulders lightly.
Helena Noir: “There’s not much to say, really. We fought, he beat me, he proved that he deserves the title he’s wearing around his waist.
She rubbed her chin after speaking those words.
Helena Noir: “See, Tim, there’s something I really need to get off my chest. TJ is an outstanding talent, I’m certainly not the first one to say it and I definitely didn’t discover it at No Man’s Land. Someone, and that includes him, might have found my words disrespectful, and may consider these words a pathetic attempt at an apology. But between me and you, Tim, I don’t care in either case.
The truth is, at No Man’s Land TJ didn’t shut me up. He shut up all the doubters he had, whether they were hiding amongst the roster, in LPW’s front office, or even between the fans. I was never one of them, the question I asked, if he could beat me one on one, was the question they were afraid to ask out loud. And he finally answered it.”
Tim Anderson: “Are you saying that you purposefully poked the bear, so to speak?”
Tim asked raising an eyebrow,
Helena Noir: “To think that my words had even the slightest influence in TJ’s performance would be arrogant and utterly words. I won’t be saying that I wanted to help him realize his potential, he certainly didn’t need me or anyone else to do that and the Freedom championship alone is enough of an incentive to go that extra mile. My words were just that… Words. How TJ, or anyone else interpretes them and what they do with them, is beyond my control.”
Tim Anderson: “Speaking of words, last week Alesia Reeves created a fuss with her claims on social media, some of them regarding…”
The former champion interrupted the interviewer with a gesture of her hand.
Helena Noir: “I’m going to stop you here, Tim. I know where you’re going with this. I already spoke about Reeves, on the last Liberation before No Man’s Land. She has the right talent and attitude to make it in this business and reach the heights her sister Melissa reached. Untapped potential, if you will, but a granted future as a staple in Liberty and in this industry.
I heard what she said, she’s entitled to her opinion like anyone else is. But in this business, facts matter a lot more than words. We’ve been in the same ring a couple of times, the most notable certainly were the main event of Kings & Queens and the Elimination Chamber. And even though I came out short in both circumstances, I outshined her.
Now, there might be a day in the future where the roles will reverse and she will become the star everybody knows she can be. But as of today, she still has a long way to go. And our respective positions on the card are all the proof you need.”
The proud Swede crossed her arms on her chest, impatiently tapping her foot.. Tim had one last question before letting her go.
Tim Anderson: “And this brings us to tonight’s match. A fatal four way to crown the new number one contender to the Freedom championship. Do you feel you deserve another shot after recently losing to the current champion?”
A sigh escaped her black lips.
Helena Noir: “It doesn’t matter what I feel, Tim. Or what Pepper, Kaia and Jacob feel. I didn’t book myself in this match, Jade did. She’s the one calling the shots and if she thinks I still belong in the title picture, all I can do is to get in that ring and prove to everyone why I do. We can say I’ve been in Liberty since pretty much its beginning, I started at the bottom and wrote my name in its history book.
And even though I’m not a champion anymore, I’m still one of the best this company has to offer.
To everyone who wants to claim my spot, like it or not, your climb to the top goes through me. Gear up and come prepared, it’s going to be one hell of a ride.”
Before Tim could add anything, Helena walked away. The interview was over, the fatal four way match was about to start.
Never one to really give interviews, Helena Noir was surprisingly standing next to Tim Anderson tonight.
Tim Anderson: “Good evening ladies and gentlemen and welcome to episode nine of Freedom. Joining me tonight, and that’s quite the news itself, it’s the former and longest reigning Liberty champion, Helena Noir.
Wearing a classic Last Rites Tattoo Theatre hoodie, Helena nodded at the camera.
Helena Noir: “Good evening everyone and thanks for having me, Tim.”
Tim Anderson: “I’d say the honor is mine, considering your proverbial reluctance in speaking to us humble interviewers…”
His tone is obviously ironic, intended to take some edge off. But the joke didn’t quite land with Helena, who shot a cold glare at the interviewer.
Tim Anderson: “Right... So, why don’t we start from No Man’s Land II? You challenged TJ Techniques for the Freedom championship, and came up short. Any words regarding that match?
Helena shrugged her shoulders lightly.
Helena Noir: “There’s not much to say, really. We fought, he beat me, he proved that he deserves the title he’s wearing around his waist.
She rubbed her chin after speaking those words.
Helena Noir: “See, Tim, there’s something I really need to get off my chest. TJ is an outstanding talent, I’m certainly not the first one to say it and I definitely didn’t discover it at No Man’s Land. Someone, and that includes him, might have found my words disrespectful, and may consider these words a pathetic attempt at an apology. But between me and you, Tim, I don’t care in either case.
The truth is, at No Man’s Land TJ didn’t shut me up. He shut up all the doubters he had, whether they were hiding amongst the roster, in LPW’s front office, or even between the fans. I was never one of them, the question I asked, if he could beat me one on one, was the question they were afraid to ask out loud. And he finally answered it.”
Tim Anderson: “Are you saying that you purposefully poked the bear, so to speak?”
Tim asked raising an eyebrow,
Helena Noir: “To think that my words had even the slightest influence in TJ’s performance would be arrogant and utterly words. I won’t be saying that I wanted to help him realize his potential, he certainly didn’t need me or anyone else to do that and the Freedom championship alone is enough of an incentive to go that extra mile. My words were just that… Words. How TJ, or anyone else interpretes them and what they do with them, is beyond my control.”
Tim Anderson: “Speaking of words, last week Alesia Reeves created a fuss with her claims on social media, some of them regarding…”
The former champion interrupted the interviewer with a gesture of her hand.
Helena Noir: “I’m going to stop you here, Tim. I know where you’re going with this. I already spoke about Reeves, on the last Liberation before No Man’s Land. She has the right talent and attitude to make it in this business and reach the heights her sister Melissa reached. Untapped potential, if you will, but a granted future as a staple in Liberty and in this industry.
I heard what she said, she’s entitled to her opinion like anyone else is. But in this business, facts matter a lot more than words. We’ve been in the same ring a couple of times, the most notable certainly were the main event of Kings & Queens and the Elimination Chamber. And even though I came out short in both circumstances, I outshined her.
Now, there might be a day in the future where the roles will reverse and she will become the star everybody knows she can be. But as of today, she still has a long way to go. And our respective positions on the card are all the proof you need.”
The proud Swede crossed her arms on her chest, impatiently tapping her foot.. Tim had one last question before letting her go.
Tim Anderson: “And this brings us to tonight’s match. A fatal four way to crown the new number one contender to the Freedom championship. Do you feel you deserve another shot after recently losing to the current champion?”
A sigh escaped her black lips.
Helena Noir: “It doesn’t matter what I feel, Tim. Or what Pepper, Kaia and Jacob feel. I didn’t book myself in this match, Jade did. She’s the one calling the shots and if she thinks I still belong in the title picture, all I can do is to get in that ring and prove to everyone why I do. We can say I’ve been in Liberty since pretty much its beginning, I started at the bottom and wrote my name in its history book.
And even though I’m not a champion anymore, I’m still one of the best this company has to offer.
To everyone who wants to claim my spot, like it or not, your climb to the top goes through me. Gear up and come prepared, it’s going to be one hell of a ride.”
Before Tim could add anything, Helena walked away. The interview was over, the fatal four way match was about to start.
MATCH SIX: SINGLES
Chuck Matthews vs Lizzie Jones
Chuck Matthews vs Lizzie Jones
RECAP The match had been changed early on to a no disqualifications match, at the request of Chuck Matthews, and the newly crowned US Champion was taking full advantage. Lizzie was wise enough not to try and engage Chuck in a technical contest, opting instead to leave the ring immediately to find a weapon. She found herself a chair and was quick to re-enter the ring, only to be met immediately by a flurry of offense from Matthews. He managed to score a count of one before Liz slipped out. Liz was not to be taken down so quickly, though, and on Chuck’s next attack, she was able to slip from his grasp, getting behind him and immediately going for the right knee of Chuck, then managed to keep him down for a two count with a vicious DDT onto the chair she’d brought in before. Chuck continued on his methodical offense, watching for Lizzie’s attacks and doing his best to defend wherever he could, rather than expend energy on tiring offensive maneuvers. Liz proved precisely why she was a champion, though, finding ways to land a hit even in spite of Chuck’s constant reversing and defending, and at one point nearing a couple of close falls, but to no avail. Liz had Chuck down in the corner. She found her chair, lying forgotten at the opposite end of the ring. She seized it, finding satisfaction in the dent in the seat, and prepared to do more damage with it. She turned around… right into a crushing spear from Matthews. Hollywood Impact connects! Chuck hooked the champion’s leg… but there was no count! Liz shoved Chuck off her and Chuck looked to the outside to see that Xavier Laroux had pulled the referee from the ring! Xavier slid into the ring, standing toe to toe with Chuck, the two men staring each other down. Xavier gave him a shove, sending Chuck stumbling back to the corner. Laroux laid into him, hammering at his ribs and face with heavy hands. He backed off, letting Chuck slump to the corner. In a heartbeat, Xavier was back on the attack, his boot to Chuck’s neck, choking him out in the corner. Xavier delivered vicious stomps to Matthews body, growing more irate with each kick. He backed up, watching to see what Chuck did. Matthews pulled himself up, looking at Xavier across the ring. The moment they made eye contact, Xavier ran forward. Chuck didn’t move in time, taking a boot full to the face and slumping back in the corner. Across the ring, Liz stood, clearly annoyed that Xavier had intervened. Xavier pointed at Chuck, yelling something to Liz. Laroux picked him up off the mat, holding him in place. Chuck stood, arms pinned behind him. Liz looked from X to Chuck, then hit the ropes, coming back with a vicious Calamity to the Smartest Man in Wrestling’s head. Liz went for the pin. One… What? Xavier pulled Liz off Chuck, shaking his head. Liz shouted at him, but Xavier shoved her aside, approaching Chuck with Liz’s steel chair in hand. Chuck slowly sat up, glancing up to see Xavier swing the chair into his skull, putting him back on the mat. Xavier swung the weapon like a madman, each blow sending a loud crack echoing through the arena, and Chuck taking each successive hit without ever having a chance to get his hands up. Xavier wrapped the chair around Chuck’s damaged knee, glancing back at the mastermind. Slowly, he retreated to the corner, measuring up his nemesis. Chuck looked out of it, lying in the center of the ring, chair wrapped around his knee. Xavier climbed to the top rope, judging the distance of the jump. He took his leap, but Liz ran forward. Calamity strikes again! Liz’s boot collided with Xavier’s head in mid-jump, sending Xavier crashing to the mat, and Chuck’s knee safe from his attack. Liz removed the chair, kicking it away, and looking down at Matthews. She rolled her eyes and dropped to the mat, hooking his leg for the pin. WINNER Liz Jones METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 16:37 FINISHING MOVE Repeated Chair Shots |
BACKSTAGE
“We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light.”
- Plato
The words were bolded against a black backdrop, a glorious yellow glow emanating behind the white letters, before a similar view comes into play, the same wheat field that we’d seen a few weeks prior when No Man’s Land II took to the airwaves, a singular maiden in a long white gown that was revealed to be Kaia Grainger, now turning to the cameras, hair tied back in a high ponytail, as the billowing gown encloses around her skin, suddenly there is static, erupting across the feed, a glitch if you will that interrupts the calmness before there is a random visage of the image and then again the wheat field with a city backdrop suddenly becomes a desolate wasteland.
Another Glitch and then it's all . . . gone.
Just before the feed cycles through once again, this time in a similar hallway structure that we saw weeks before, LED lights adorning the shafts of the otherwise darkened halls giving an eerie vibe of some type of space age film, this time Kaia is seen with a long braid, a much more form-fitting white outfit reminiscent of the former, but with slits at the midriff of her back and tied into a jumpsuit, futuristic ensemble. She turns now this time a smile forming on her face, just before a voice over begins to play.
Kaia Grainger: “I’ve never considered myself a predictor of the future, in fact most of the sensory I have only allows me only to assume when there is change in the air. An aura if you will that emanates a sentiment and I have no choice but to follow it.”
The scene glitches again into a darkened alley way, this time she emerges in the center of it, a long white robe resembling a kimono. Her hair this time is reminiscent of a kitsune in the way that it's shaped.
Kaia Grainger: “It often leads to a path where others have chosen their own fate, and even when it means I have to give something away, the light will always remain.”
A sudden burst completely surrounds her now and illuminates her figure in this darkened alleyway, before the camera again changes pace, this time to Kaia simply sitting on a stool in the middle of a black backdrop, a warriors cloak adorning her frame this time, while a white two piece ensemble shows underneath, her wrestling attire for the night it seems as it sparkles in the frame.
Kaia Grainger: “I know I should be upset, in fact that’s what many people say. Why aren’t you outraged, but there is more to emotion than anger, there is more to life than resentment and while many have tried to contest my morality, tried to defile my integrity. I remained silent. Actions often speak as they say and despite every action she’s taken against me, despite ultimately winning the prize she thought she would achieve. . . Liz will have to continually prove her earnings, because despite everything. . . she could never truly defeat me.”
A small, almost gleeful smile came to her then, as she tilted her head.
Kaia Grainger: “I don’t mean physically, because that clearly has already occurred, but I mean realistically. When she emerged on the scene, she talked about earning her respect, garnering a reputation, and she’s done that, but perhaps not in the way that she wanted.”
Kaia offered a shrug before smiling further.
Kaia Grainger: “Yet she has chosen her path and therefore, it is set to play out exactly the way she wants it too, and for me, the light has shown something new. Another opportunity to earn, another moment to grow. For Helena another chance to prove, for Jacob a moment to show pride, for Pepper a friend who continues to show she’s exactly who she says she is and for me?”
She pauses before firmly smiling.
Kaia Grainger: “The path remains to be seen. I’ve seen those who are afraid of the dark, but in truth, how many are enamored by the light?”
She crosses her legs sitting atop the stool as she bows her hand and places her hands together in a almost ceremonial way before she lifts her head back up.
Kaia Grainger: “It’s only evolving.”
With that another glitch powers through the screen and the scene finally fades.
“We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light.”
- Plato
The words were bolded against a black backdrop, a glorious yellow glow emanating behind the white letters, before a similar view comes into play, the same wheat field that we’d seen a few weeks prior when No Man’s Land II took to the airwaves, a singular maiden in a long white gown that was revealed to be Kaia Grainger, now turning to the cameras, hair tied back in a high ponytail, as the billowing gown encloses around her skin, suddenly there is static, erupting across the feed, a glitch if you will that interrupts the calmness before there is a random visage of the image and then again the wheat field with a city backdrop suddenly becomes a desolate wasteland.
Another Glitch and then it's all . . . gone.
Just before the feed cycles through once again, this time in a similar hallway structure that we saw weeks before, LED lights adorning the shafts of the otherwise darkened halls giving an eerie vibe of some type of space age film, this time Kaia is seen with a long braid, a much more form-fitting white outfit reminiscent of the former, but with slits at the midriff of her back and tied into a jumpsuit, futuristic ensemble. She turns now this time a smile forming on her face, just before a voice over begins to play.
Kaia Grainger: “I’ve never considered myself a predictor of the future, in fact most of the sensory I have only allows me only to assume when there is change in the air. An aura if you will that emanates a sentiment and I have no choice but to follow it.”
The scene glitches again into a darkened alley way, this time she emerges in the center of it, a long white robe resembling a kimono. Her hair this time is reminiscent of a kitsune in the way that it's shaped.
Kaia Grainger: “It often leads to a path where others have chosen their own fate, and even when it means I have to give something away, the light will always remain.”
A sudden burst completely surrounds her now and illuminates her figure in this darkened alleyway, before the camera again changes pace, this time to Kaia simply sitting on a stool in the middle of a black backdrop, a warriors cloak adorning her frame this time, while a white two piece ensemble shows underneath, her wrestling attire for the night it seems as it sparkles in the frame.
Kaia Grainger: “I know I should be upset, in fact that’s what many people say. Why aren’t you outraged, but there is more to emotion than anger, there is more to life than resentment and while many have tried to contest my morality, tried to defile my integrity. I remained silent. Actions often speak as they say and despite every action she’s taken against me, despite ultimately winning the prize she thought she would achieve. . . Liz will have to continually prove her earnings, because despite everything. . . she could never truly defeat me.”
A small, almost gleeful smile came to her then, as she tilted her head.
Kaia Grainger: “I don’t mean physically, because that clearly has already occurred, but I mean realistically. When she emerged on the scene, she talked about earning her respect, garnering a reputation, and she’s done that, but perhaps not in the way that she wanted.”
Kaia offered a shrug before smiling further.
Kaia Grainger: “Yet she has chosen her path and therefore, it is set to play out exactly the way she wants it too, and for me, the light has shown something new. Another opportunity to earn, another moment to grow. For Helena another chance to prove, for Jacob a moment to show pride, for Pepper a friend who continues to show she’s exactly who she says she is and for me?”
She pauses before firmly smiling.
Kaia Grainger: “The path remains to be seen. I’ve seen those who are afraid of the dark, but in truth, how many are enamored by the light?”
She crosses her legs sitting atop the stool as she bows her hand and places her hands together in a almost ceremonial way before she lifts her head back up.
Kaia Grainger: “It’s only evolving.”
With that another glitch powers through the screen and the scene finally fades.
BACKSTAGE
We cut backstage and lying on the ground being checked by EMT’s and backstage workers is Helena Noir, who was clearly attacked before the match. She tries to get up and says she can go but Jade Night shows up to calm her down. The two talk it out but the camera can’t pick up what’s being said when the scene cuts away.
We cut backstage and lying on the ground being checked by EMT’s and backstage workers is Helena Noir, who was clearly attacked before the match. She tries to get up and says she can go but Jade Night shows up to calm her down. The two talk it out but the camera can’t pick up what’s being said when the scene cuts away.
HEADLINE: #1 Contendership for Freedom Championship
Helena Noir vs Jacob Daniels vs Kaia Grainger vs Precious Pepper Vain
Helena Noir vs Jacob Daniels vs Kaia Grainger vs Precious Pepper Vain
RECAP The three in the ring wait for the arrival of the former Liberty Chanpion, Helena Noir, but as time passes, it becomes increasingly clear that she won't be making her way to the ring. With that being the case, the match is still on, and declared a triple threat match with a new Freedom number one contender set to be crowned. And as soon as the bell sounds, it's evident it'll be a war to become the new contender as Precious Pepper Vain and Jacob Daniels waste little time going after one another while Kaia stands back and observes the violence. The two fighters exchange elbows and forearms before PPV backs JD into the ropes, sending him across the ring, and drops him with a clothesline. This is when Kaia strikes with a series of shoot kicks to PPV’s legs, trying to chop her down. Her strikes are relentless and eventually, she gets Vain down to a knee before taking her down with a dropkick. Before she can do anymore, JD is back as he throws Kaia across the ring with a German suplex. She rolls up to the corner and gets her boots up to stun a charging JD, popping up to the top, and coming off with a crossbody, but JD catches her! And he runs over with a powerslam, slamming Kaia right onto Vain! He tries a pin on Kaia, but just gets a two out of it. Pushing her out of the ring, JD goes back to Vain, lifting her up, but gets a European uppercut for his efforts. PPV hits a second that spins JD around and Precious drops JD with a snap DDT before she makes a pin! One! Two! THRE-NO! Kaia breaks the pin up with a senton onto PPV. As Vain starts to recover, Kaia’s there with a chop block to take him right down. A dropkick sends him into the corner and she uses the opportunity to start choking him out! And as soon as she releases her hold, she is lifted up by JD in a powerbomb position! But Kaia fights out of it as she starts raining punches down onto him. As he drops her, Kaia runs the ropes for a shoulder block that leaves JD standing. She goes for a second and then a third finally that knocks him back into the turnbuckles. He's resting in just the right spot for Kaia to come in Star Shine- Handspring Cutter! Again, JD drops and as Kaia tries for a pin, but PPV comes out of nowhere and drops Grainger Killing Stroke. PPV looks to go for the pin but NO! Helena Noir is in the ring with a chair and she slams it on PPV’s back and it sends PPV out of the ring. Noir follows her out and continues her onslaught. Was it PPV who attacked Noir earlier? It seems to be so as Helena keeps on beating down Precious, not caring what’s going on in the ring now. Meanwhile, JD waits for Kaia to stir and he goes for a superman punch but the former US Champion ducks it and hits JD with a rollup! The count hits three and JD isn’t able to power out! The bell rings and Kaia Grainger is announced the winner! Helena is still continuing to attack PPV on the outside until security pulls her away! WINNER Kaia Grainger METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 13:12 FINISHING MOVE Roll Up |
BACKSTAGE
Episode Nine of Freedom continues as our scene shifts to a dimly lit room. As the camera slowly zooms in, we see the glistening Freedom Championship as it set on a folding table underneath an over hanging light. Suddenly, a black leather glove clad hand snatches the championship off the table. Into the light leans Freedom Champion, TJ Techniques. TJ greets the camera with nod before placing the championship across his shoulder.
TJ Techniques: Well where else would this title be? This championship is exactly where it belongs and that's in my possession. You gotta give Helena Noir credit, you know. Homegirl gave it her all. She tried her hardest. That woman gave me one hell of a fight. A hell of a fight. But it just... wasn't... good enough. There ain't no shame in that. There ain't no shame in losing to a guy like me. I just hope, Helena, that you can finally give me the credit that I deserve. I hope that you can finally give me the same credit that I readily gave you time and time and time again...
TJ lets the thought linger before continuing.
TJ Techniques: ...Or maybe not. Maybe you're still salty. Maybe you thought that what happened at No Man's Land II was a fluke? Whether you thought the outcome of our match was skill or luck, tonight, you've got a chance. You've got a chance to run it back with the Freedom Champion. All you have to do is outlast three other competitors. Of course, I'm talking about that #1 Contendership for the Freedom Championship. You got a lot of talent in that match. Helena's got a lot of competition in there. Let's just take a peep at what we've got going on in there.
TJ holds up four fingers on his let hand. He then uses his thumb and pointer finger on his hand hand to pinch the pinky finger on his left.
TJ Techniques: You've got Helena, who I've already touched on...
TJ then uses his thumb and pointer finger on his right hand to pinch the ring finger on his left.
TJ Techniques: You got a guy like Jacob Daniels. Going off looks alone, he should have it in the bag. Mans got size, strength. All three of his opponents could gang up on him and even then, they wouldn't be able to toss him around. That's how big the size difference is. But bruh, matches ain't won on size. This ain't Mr. Olympia. All them muscles might impress some. But can you go in the ring, or is it all just for show? Don't get me wrong. You've been a champion in the past. I can't take that away from you. But what can you do, in the here and now, on the solo mission. That's the questions. This ain't the tag scene. We ain't talking about The Pride. What can you and you alone do. We're about to find out and I cannot wait to see how you fare in there, big guy. Moving on...
TJ grabs uses his thumb and pointer finger on his right hand to pinch the middle finger on his left.
TJ Techniques: Who else we got in that thing tonight? Precious Pepper Vain, who is finally making her way over to the Freedom brand. Now when it comes to PPV, you can say a whole lot about her. Trust me on that one. All you have to do is look at her mentions and you can see people on her neck on the daily. But what's the phrase they used to say? You ain't somebody unless someone's hating on you? I might of butchered that, but you get the point. Say whatever you want about Pep, but the woman is about her business - in the ring and out. She's been a champion here and elsewhere. She's got a popular clothing line. She's successful in multiple ventures. The woman knows how to win. A victory here tonight? To get a shot at this? That might just be one of her biggest wins yet. But the last time we saw PPV in a wrestling ring - not a Liberty ring, but a wrestling ring - she was getting dogwalked over in Union Battleground on March 7th. Now, I'm not trying to kick anybody while they down. You know that's never been my style. And I don't wanna say that homegirl got her ass whipped. But... aye man... homegirl got her ass whipped. PPV at a 100 percent? That's a dangerous opponent right there. Will she be 100 percent tonight? After what I saw, I doubt it. But if there's anyone that could sneak their way out of this one with the W, it would be Pep, wouldn't it?
TJ trails off. He's only got one name left.
TJ Techniques: Then lastly, we've gotta talk about a woman that I've had the pleasure of stepping in the ring with and that's Kaia Granger. Kaia, we've been opponents. We've been teammates. It was an honor stepping into the ring with you each and every single time. I know you're just coming off that tough United States Championship loss. Even without the gold, you're still a champ in my eyes and to the eyes of a lot of people. With that being said, I know the type of fighter you are. You won't let that US Title loss stop you. You're gonna keep pushing forward and that path may just lead you to this title right here.
TJ points to the championship.
TJ Techniques: If I said I wasn't pulling for Kaia tonight, I'd be lying. All four of those wrestlers in that match got their owns strengths and weaknesses. They all pose their own unique threats to me and my title. But as big as that match is, I can't focus on that because there's no rest for the Freedom Champion. I don't have the night off. I don't get to just kick it backstage and watch everything unfold. The champ is on duty tonight. In this main event, I'm not just defending my title against one opponent. I'm defending them against two.
TJ Techniques: Of course I'm talking about ROTTEN's Micaela and the recently returned Cole Gregory. You gotta love it, you really do. There's no downtime for the champ, especially THE champion here on Freedom. There's no free wins here. I'm not being given easy competition. I'm facing two people that want nothing more than to take what I've worked so hard for. You got Micaela, who would love for nothing more than to take the top title on this brand and bring it into ROTTEN's grasps. She might not have the same level of experience that I do, but I've peeped the style. She's a tricky one. She's someone that you can't underestimate. She's never been shy about bashing someone over the head or across the back with a blunt object. Not to mention the fact that you know her rotten as friends will be in the building, so my head has to stay on a swivel. Then you got Cole Gregory, a former champion. In his first two matches back, he beat JPK and Hope Williams. The man beat up 'ol boy and his mommy. But that was light work for Cole. The man said it himself. He wants someone that gives a shit. He wants a top level opponent. Say Cole...
TJ glances to the Freedom Championship on his shoulder before turning his attention back to the camera.
TJ Techniques: Am I a top level opponent? Am I someone worthy of stepping into the ring with you? If I was an arrogant man, I'd flip the strict and ask you those questions. But I'm not gonna play you like that. You want a challenge? You want the smoke? Well be careful for what you wish for, bruh, because you're about to be thrown straight into the fire. Do you got what it takes to take this title off of me? Do you got what it takes to beat not just one, but two opponents? You said that you've seen the tape on me and you just might have to take my head off tonight.
TJ lets out a small chuckle.
TJ Techniques: Let me let you in a lil secret, bruh. There ain't no "might" about it, I can guarantee you that. That's what you WILL have to do. You want this title? You're gonna have to go through me. It's just like I told you the other day. You want the shot? Here it is. So come on. Come on with it. But you best not miss, cause if you do... and I catch you? It's your ass.
TJ takes a second to collect himself before continuing.
TJ Techniques: Defending your gold against a hungry challenger is always tough. But with it being two, it just makes it even harder. Some would say that this isn't a fair fight. They would say that this is a glorified handicap match.
TJ shrugs.
TJ Techniques: Hey, maybe you're right. It would be easier for Micaela and Cole to just up and take me out the mix and fight amongst themselves. But guess what? Life ain't fair. Being the champ, and the top champ at that, on Freedom ain't an easy job. But this is what I signed up for. The challenges, the hurdles, the threats from all directions? This is what comes with the territory when you're the top title holder. This is a championship that I worked my ass off to get. It's a championship that I don't plan on giving up no time soon. No time soon...
Episode Nine of Freedom continues as our scene shifts to a dimly lit room. As the camera slowly zooms in, we see the glistening Freedom Championship as it set on a folding table underneath an over hanging light. Suddenly, a black leather glove clad hand snatches the championship off the table. Into the light leans Freedom Champion, TJ Techniques. TJ greets the camera with nod before placing the championship across his shoulder.
TJ Techniques: Well where else would this title be? This championship is exactly where it belongs and that's in my possession. You gotta give Helena Noir credit, you know. Homegirl gave it her all. She tried her hardest. That woman gave me one hell of a fight. A hell of a fight. But it just... wasn't... good enough. There ain't no shame in that. There ain't no shame in losing to a guy like me. I just hope, Helena, that you can finally give me the credit that I deserve. I hope that you can finally give me the same credit that I readily gave you time and time and time again...
TJ lets the thought linger before continuing.
TJ Techniques: ...Or maybe not. Maybe you're still salty. Maybe you thought that what happened at No Man's Land II was a fluke? Whether you thought the outcome of our match was skill or luck, tonight, you've got a chance. You've got a chance to run it back with the Freedom Champion. All you have to do is outlast three other competitors. Of course, I'm talking about that #1 Contendership for the Freedom Championship. You got a lot of talent in that match. Helena's got a lot of competition in there. Let's just take a peep at what we've got going on in there.
TJ holds up four fingers on his let hand. He then uses his thumb and pointer finger on his hand hand to pinch the pinky finger on his left.
TJ Techniques: You've got Helena, who I've already touched on...
TJ then uses his thumb and pointer finger on his right hand to pinch the ring finger on his left.
TJ Techniques: You got a guy like Jacob Daniels. Going off looks alone, he should have it in the bag. Mans got size, strength. All three of his opponents could gang up on him and even then, they wouldn't be able to toss him around. That's how big the size difference is. But bruh, matches ain't won on size. This ain't Mr. Olympia. All them muscles might impress some. But can you go in the ring, or is it all just for show? Don't get me wrong. You've been a champion in the past. I can't take that away from you. But what can you do, in the here and now, on the solo mission. That's the questions. This ain't the tag scene. We ain't talking about The Pride. What can you and you alone do. We're about to find out and I cannot wait to see how you fare in there, big guy. Moving on...
TJ grabs uses his thumb and pointer finger on his right hand to pinch the middle finger on his left.
TJ Techniques: Who else we got in that thing tonight? Precious Pepper Vain, who is finally making her way over to the Freedom brand. Now when it comes to PPV, you can say a whole lot about her. Trust me on that one. All you have to do is look at her mentions and you can see people on her neck on the daily. But what's the phrase they used to say? You ain't somebody unless someone's hating on you? I might of butchered that, but you get the point. Say whatever you want about Pep, but the woman is about her business - in the ring and out. She's been a champion here and elsewhere. She's got a popular clothing line. She's successful in multiple ventures. The woman knows how to win. A victory here tonight? To get a shot at this? That might just be one of her biggest wins yet. But the last time we saw PPV in a wrestling ring - not a Liberty ring, but a wrestling ring - she was getting dogwalked over in Union Battleground on March 7th. Now, I'm not trying to kick anybody while they down. You know that's never been my style. And I don't wanna say that homegirl got her ass whipped. But... aye man... homegirl got her ass whipped. PPV at a 100 percent? That's a dangerous opponent right there. Will she be 100 percent tonight? After what I saw, I doubt it. But if there's anyone that could sneak their way out of this one with the W, it would be Pep, wouldn't it?
TJ trails off. He's only got one name left.
TJ Techniques: Then lastly, we've gotta talk about a woman that I've had the pleasure of stepping in the ring with and that's Kaia Granger. Kaia, we've been opponents. We've been teammates. It was an honor stepping into the ring with you each and every single time. I know you're just coming off that tough United States Championship loss. Even without the gold, you're still a champ in my eyes and to the eyes of a lot of people. With that being said, I know the type of fighter you are. You won't let that US Title loss stop you. You're gonna keep pushing forward and that path may just lead you to this title right here.
TJ points to the championship.
TJ Techniques: If I said I wasn't pulling for Kaia tonight, I'd be lying. All four of those wrestlers in that match got their owns strengths and weaknesses. They all pose their own unique threats to me and my title. But as big as that match is, I can't focus on that because there's no rest for the Freedom Champion. I don't have the night off. I don't get to just kick it backstage and watch everything unfold. The champ is on duty tonight. In this main event, I'm not just defending my title against one opponent. I'm defending them against two.
TJ Techniques: Of course I'm talking about ROTTEN's Micaela and the recently returned Cole Gregory. You gotta love it, you really do. There's no downtime for the champ, especially THE champion here on Freedom. There's no free wins here. I'm not being given easy competition. I'm facing two people that want nothing more than to take what I've worked so hard for. You got Micaela, who would love for nothing more than to take the top title on this brand and bring it into ROTTEN's grasps. She might not have the same level of experience that I do, but I've peeped the style. She's a tricky one. She's someone that you can't underestimate. She's never been shy about bashing someone over the head or across the back with a blunt object. Not to mention the fact that you know her rotten as friends will be in the building, so my head has to stay on a swivel. Then you got Cole Gregory, a former champion. In his first two matches back, he beat JPK and Hope Williams. The man beat up 'ol boy and his mommy. But that was light work for Cole. The man said it himself. He wants someone that gives a shit. He wants a top level opponent. Say Cole...
TJ glances to the Freedom Championship on his shoulder before turning his attention back to the camera.
TJ Techniques: Am I a top level opponent? Am I someone worthy of stepping into the ring with you? If I was an arrogant man, I'd flip the strict and ask you those questions. But I'm not gonna play you like that. You want a challenge? You want the smoke? Well be careful for what you wish for, bruh, because you're about to be thrown straight into the fire. Do you got what it takes to take this title off of me? Do you got what it takes to beat not just one, but two opponents? You said that you've seen the tape on me and you just might have to take my head off tonight.
TJ lets out a small chuckle.
TJ Techniques: Let me let you in a lil secret, bruh. There ain't no "might" about it, I can guarantee you that. That's what you WILL have to do. You want this title? You're gonna have to go through me. It's just like I told you the other day. You want the shot? Here it is. So come on. Come on with it. But you best not miss, cause if you do... and I catch you? It's your ass.
TJ takes a second to collect himself before continuing.
TJ Techniques: Defending your gold against a hungry challenger is always tough. But with it being two, it just makes it even harder. Some would say that this isn't a fair fight. They would say that this is a glorified handicap match.
TJ shrugs.
TJ Techniques: Hey, maybe you're right. It would be easier for Micaela and Cole to just up and take me out the mix and fight amongst themselves. But guess what? Life ain't fair. Being the champ, and the top champ at that, on Freedom ain't an easy job. But this is what I signed up for. The challenges, the hurdles, the threats from all directions? This is what comes with the territory when you're the top title holder. This is a championship that I worked my ass off to get. It's a championship that I don't plan on giving up no time soon. No time soon...
MAIN EVENT: FREEDOM CHAMPIONSHIP
TJ Techniques vs Micaela vs Cole Gregory
TJ Techniques vs Micaela vs Cole Gregory
RECAP All three competitors take turns throwing hits at each other until Micaela slips away to let TJ and Cole go at it hard with an exciting strike exchange. With the fans pumped, TJ draws more strength from them to unleash a punching combo that rocks Cole. As Cole staggers backwards, TJ immediately follows up with the Phenomenal Blitz aka Let The Rhythm Hit ‘Em before topping it off with a crowd-pleasing moonwalk DDT. While Cole recovers, Micaela moves in to catch TJ with a savate kick but he catches her leg in time and throws it away. When Micaela spins back around, TJ attacks her with a couple of forearm shots then irish whips her to the other side. TJ jumps over Micaela who ducks and after bouncing off opposite ropes, they meet in the centre with a high dropkick by Micaela. TJ rolls back to his feet and successfully ducks Micaela’s clothesline attempt. Micaela tries to catch TJ with a spinning heel kick but again he dodges it and runs the ropes to take her down with a hurricanrana. The fans cheer as Cole now rejoins the fray but after a kick exchange, TJ gains back control of the match when he counters with a tiger wall flip off the corner and surprises Cole with a reverse hurricanrana. TJ goes up top but he sees Micaela making her way over and Cole is pushing to his feet again, so he takes them both down with an impressive split-legged flying dropkick. TJ pins Micaela but she kicks out at two. TJ rushes for the cover on Cole next but again gets a two-count. This fires up Cole as he fights back TJ with hard fists. This time, TJ can’t escape despite his best efforts, not when Cole starts to punish him with brutal leg kicks. As TJ drops on one knee, Cole picks him up for an exploding gutbuster that gets a sympathetic “ooh!” from the fans. TJ rolls on the floor in agony, clutching his midsection. Suddenly Micaela blindsides Cole from behind. As Cole turns around, Micaela wastes no time to attack him with a Chick kick. With Cole down on his back, Micaela scales to the top rope for a diving moonsault. But Cole moves out of the way, leaving Micaela to crash and burn. This allows Cole to punish Micaela some more, this time with an ankle lock that has her screaming in pain. Micaela tries her best to crawl for the nearest ropes but just as she reaches for them, Cole drags her away to the middle of the ring. That’s when TJ returns with a running dropkick that forces Cole to release Micaela. As Cole rolls out of the ring, TJ goes after him with a Fosbury flop that brings the crowd alive with delight. With Cole out, TJ returns to the ring, only to get his eyes raked by Micaela. Jeers fill the arena as the referee gives Micaela a warning. Flashing an unapologetic smirk, Micaela stomps on TJ hard a few times before attempting to climb to the top rope again. TJ slowly returns to his feet to stop Micaela. After some back and forth, Micaela knocks TJ back and she climbs down too to go after him. As Micaela tosses TJ to the far ropes, he returns to counter with a Spanish fly. With Micaela down, TJ looks for the end with his shooting star press finisher, Know The Ledge. He goes for the pin and picks up the victory. Loud cheers fill the arena before turning to passionate boos. The cameras turn to find Sad Max and Huck running down the ramp to attack TJ. Despite his best efforts, TJ gets overwhelmed by the two men as they make him a crumpled mess on the mat. Just when they think they can get away with it, Cole has returned to life and he slides into the ring to fend off Sad Max and Huck. Cole eventually struggles to his feet again and together, he and Cole chase away Sad Max and Huck, much to the delight of the fans. Frustrated at this, the uninvited two quickly leave the ring and drag Micaela with them to escape. WINNER TJ Techniques METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 15:12 FINISHING MOVE Know The Ledge |