Post by Jade Night on Apr 9, 2021 17:17:58 GMT
Liberty Pro Presents...
Episode Ten of Freedom
Live from the Matthews Arena in Boston, MA
On Monday, April 6th, 2021
Episode Ten of Freedom
Live from the Matthews Arena in Boston, MA
On Monday, April 6th, 2021
EARLIER TODAY
Outside the building! And it’s earlier in the day. We know this because it’s brighter and also a little graphic pops up to helpfully make us aware of this. And not only are we outside the building, but we join three individuals as Liberty Pro fans make their way up the stairs.
One figure stands lean with a big ginger beard with a cheerful demeanour. The other, a lot bigger and taller with a brown beard of his own, looks a lot less cheerful. These are Ronnie Ward and Ralph Adler respectively, joined by the raven-haired Kasey Connery, looking quite bored and uninterested, her arms crossed as she perches on the bannister. This is The Losers Club, and as the fans pass the trio by, Ronnie is handing out pamphlets.
Ronnie Ward: ...Yeah, and you gotta put your finger and thumb on your head like this. Yeah, like in an ‘L’, when we come out. That’s right, the Losers Club, that’s us. Okay, thanks! Hey, man, do you wanna take a-- nope, alright.
Ralph Adler: Man, how much longer do we need to do this? I left my jacket inside and it’s cold out here.
Ronnie Ward: I’ve got a whole other pile to get through! This cost me like twenty dollars, it’ll be worth it, trust me! Hey ma’am, have you heard about the Losers Club? Cool new act, debuting tonight, take a pamphlet? Thanks! See Ralph? Be nice to people!
At that moment, the lead backstage announcer for Liberty Pro Tim Anderson appears from...really, nowhere to be honest, with a microphone in his hand as he approaches The Losers Club.
Tim Anderson: Hi, Tim Anderson for Liberty Pro, got time for a quick chat?
Ronnie Ward: Sure!
Tim Anderson: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here with The Losers Club. Guys, I know two thirds of the group, Ronnie Ward and Kasey Connery, will be making their debut in tag team action tonight on Freedom against The Pride but I have to ask- what’s going on here?
Ronnie Ward: Ah, well you see it’s actually a bit of an ingenious idea of mine if I do say so myself. See we’ve never really wrestled at all outside the California area, so I’ve put together these pamphlets using lots of glue and promo shots and then photocopying them en-masse to get the word out with name tags for all of us and potential chants and stuff! Just to make people familiar, y’know?
Tim Anderson: That’s...actually quite resourceful.
Ralph cannot help himself. He steps forward, sticking his face into the interview.
Ralph Adler: ‘Resourceful’ my ass, we’ve been here an hour. I’m not even wrestling tonight. I could’ve stayed at home, let you and KC do this and instead I’m doing...this.
Ronnie Ward: Hey, that’s not how The Losers Club rolls and you know it.
Ralph Adler: And how do you think this is gonna help us win, exactly?
Ronnie Ward: I’ve told you, I know we’re gonna win because Jacob Daniels is--
Ralph Adler: --Is too good looking to win, yes, I know, you’ve said this a million times. In the last hour!
Ronnie Ward: Because it’s true, he’s handsome! Model-esque! And the Hunter guy is really tall. The chess-pieces are all there, I know how this always goes, we’re gonna do this! Trust me, this is fool-proof!
Tim notices Kasey Connery, still standing quietly against the bannister with her arms crossed, calm and cool.
Tim Anderson: Kasey, you will also be in action tonight - do you have any comments to make about the match?
Kasey Connery: Not especially.
Ronnie waggles his hand.
Ronnie Ward: Yeah, KC doesn’t go in for the whole trash-talk thing so much. Y’know what they say, gotta watch out for the quiet one.
Kasey Connery: We’re gonna win.
Ronnie Ward: There ya go. We’re gonna win. I like it!
He puts his hand up for a high five, which KC obliges without a single change in her expression.
Tim Anderson: A question that I’m sure a lot of people are asking, though...why do you choose to call yourselves ‘The Losers Club’?
Ronnie Ward: We’re all losers in a way, Tim! In all different walks of life, we all lose. But it isn’t about what you lose, it’s about how you come back from losing, and that’s what The Losers Club hopes to represent. The people who lose, and are looking to win again. We are here for them! And besides, think of the branding!
Kasey Connery: Also we watched IT that one time.
Ronnie Ward: That is true, we did watch IT.
Ralph Adler: Can we go in yet?
Ronnie Ward: Just another half hour! I’ve still got more pamphlets left!
Ralph Adler: Dammit Ronnie, I’m freezing my nuts off out here!
Tim Anderson looks to us.
Tim Anderson: Well you heard it here, The Losers Club are on Freedom and they’re looking to make an impact!
Kasey rolls her eyes as Ronnie and Ralph bicker away in the background, and we fade out.[/dv]
Outside the building! And it’s earlier in the day. We know this because it’s brighter and also a little graphic pops up to helpfully make us aware of this. And not only are we outside the building, but we join three individuals as Liberty Pro fans make their way up the stairs.
One figure stands lean with a big ginger beard with a cheerful demeanour. The other, a lot bigger and taller with a brown beard of his own, looks a lot less cheerful. These are Ronnie Ward and Ralph Adler respectively, joined by the raven-haired Kasey Connery, looking quite bored and uninterested, her arms crossed as she perches on the bannister. This is The Losers Club, and as the fans pass the trio by, Ronnie is handing out pamphlets.
Ronnie Ward: ...Yeah, and you gotta put your finger and thumb on your head like this. Yeah, like in an ‘L’, when we come out. That’s right, the Losers Club, that’s us. Okay, thanks! Hey, man, do you wanna take a-- nope, alright.
Ralph Adler: Man, how much longer do we need to do this? I left my jacket inside and it’s cold out here.
Ronnie Ward: I’ve got a whole other pile to get through! This cost me like twenty dollars, it’ll be worth it, trust me! Hey ma’am, have you heard about the Losers Club? Cool new act, debuting tonight, take a pamphlet? Thanks! See Ralph? Be nice to people!
At that moment, the lead backstage announcer for Liberty Pro Tim Anderson appears from...really, nowhere to be honest, with a microphone in his hand as he approaches The Losers Club.
Tim Anderson: Hi, Tim Anderson for Liberty Pro, got time for a quick chat?
Ronnie Ward: Sure!
Tim Anderson: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here with The Losers Club. Guys, I know two thirds of the group, Ronnie Ward and Kasey Connery, will be making their debut in tag team action tonight on Freedom against The Pride but I have to ask- what’s going on here?
Ronnie Ward: Ah, well you see it’s actually a bit of an ingenious idea of mine if I do say so myself. See we’ve never really wrestled at all outside the California area, so I’ve put together these pamphlets using lots of glue and promo shots and then photocopying them en-masse to get the word out with name tags for all of us and potential chants and stuff! Just to make people familiar, y’know?
Tim Anderson: That’s...actually quite resourceful.
Ralph cannot help himself. He steps forward, sticking his face into the interview.
Ralph Adler: ‘Resourceful’ my ass, we’ve been here an hour. I’m not even wrestling tonight. I could’ve stayed at home, let you and KC do this and instead I’m doing...this.
Ronnie Ward: Hey, that’s not how The Losers Club rolls and you know it.
Ralph Adler: And how do you think this is gonna help us win, exactly?
Ronnie Ward: I’ve told you, I know we’re gonna win because Jacob Daniels is--
Ralph Adler: --Is too good looking to win, yes, I know, you’ve said this a million times. In the last hour!
Ronnie Ward: Because it’s true, he’s handsome! Model-esque! And the Hunter guy is really tall. The chess-pieces are all there, I know how this always goes, we’re gonna do this! Trust me, this is fool-proof!
Tim notices Kasey Connery, still standing quietly against the bannister with her arms crossed, calm and cool.
Tim Anderson: Kasey, you will also be in action tonight - do you have any comments to make about the match?
Kasey Connery: Not especially.
Ronnie waggles his hand.
Ronnie Ward: Yeah, KC doesn’t go in for the whole trash-talk thing so much. Y’know what they say, gotta watch out for the quiet one.
Kasey Connery: We’re gonna win.
Ronnie Ward: There ya go. We’re gonna win. I like it!
He puts his hand up for a high five, which KC obliges without a single change in her expression.
Tim Anderson: A question that I’m sure a lot of people are asking, though...why do you choose to call yourselves ‘The Losers Club’?
Ronnie Ward: We’re all losers in a way, Tim! In all different walks of life, we all lose. But it isn’t about what you lose, it’s about how you come back from losing, and that’s what The Losers Club hopes to represent. The people who lose, and are looking to win again. We are here for them! And besides, think of the branding!
Kasey Connery: Also we watched IT that one time.
Ronnie Ward: That is true, we did watch IT.
Ralph Adler: Can we go in yet?
Ronnie Ward: Just another half hour! I’ve still got more pamphlets left!
Ralph Adler: Dammit Ronnie, I’m freezing my nuts off out here!
Tim Anderson looks to us.
Tim Anderson: Well you heard it here, The Losers Club are on Freedom and they’re looking to make an impact!
Kasey rolls her eyes as Ronnie and Ralph bicker away in the background, and we fade out.[/dv]
MATCH ONE: TAG
The Losers Club vs The Pride
The Losers Club vs The Pride
RECAP The Pride controlled the match with their power, speed and experience. Chase Hunter and Jacob Daniels had Ralph and Ronnie’s numbers but eventually, it was Kasey who helped turn the tide when she stepped up on the apron and distracted the referee. Ronnie came into the ring with a chair and he leveled Jacob Daniels with it before hitting a charging Chase Hunter with it as well. Ralph was able to pin Chase as Ronnie got rid of the evidence. Ronnie then told the referee to hurry up and make the count. The referee turned around and looked confused as to what happened before he shrugged and counted to three, giving the debuting Losers Club a W instead of an L. WINNER The Losers Club METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 5:32 FINISHING MOVE Chairshot |
RINGSIDE
The futuristic sound of Slaves “I’d rather see your star Explode” the NoirBlvd Remix begins to highlight the arena as a bright light appears at the top of the rafters before gliding down to the stage as a video package begins to roll, seeing the image of the LightBringer herself, Kaia Grainger, just before that image fades into a completely different visage of color that flies through in a bokeh like effect. the glimmering exposure giving off a sort of decadence just before the name of “StarShine Productions” begins to roll across the bottom of the screen and the video package fades as Kaia ascends to the stage. The long white ensemble we’ve seen featured over her frame in several video feeds from No Man’s Land II until now, flowing behind her as she makes her way onto the stage, a long train following behind her in billowing fabric as she stops mid way in her descent down the ramp to remove the overcoat she was wearing, her new ring attire of white and silver beads adorning her frame as she smiles to the camera, a caplet of tulle still flowing behind her but in much smaller quantities as she ducks inside of the ring, being handed a microphone she begins to speak in her quiet, but confident way.
Kaia Grainger: “Hello Boston, it's been a while since we’ve had a chance to chat.”
She offered with a smirk as the crowd in the Matthews Arena began to cheer, and rightfully so considering their hometown love. Kaia waited patiently before their chants could die down.
Kaia Grainger: “Last time we were here, I was facing some of the finest wrestlers I’ve known, All of us attempting to grab hold of the opportunity to fight for the Freedom Championship. Some would say it was unexpected that at the end of the match, I was the one who emerged victoriously.”
Kaia prompted a soft smirk at that thought before she continued.
Kaia Grainger: “Its easy to mistake a quiet demeanor as one who doesn’t have confidence. It is also easy to misjudge talent based primarily on ambition alone, and yet here I stand, the number one contender to the title that TJ Techniques holds. What an excellent champion he is as well.”
She couldn’t help but show love to the very man who she would be facing soon for that title of his, letting the crowd show their love for the man as well, before she continued.
Kaia Grainger: “I’ve gone through some changes recently, some of which you make be taking note of. I’ve shown how badly I’ve wanted every opportunity I’ve been granted and now. . . Tonight alongside my tag team partner and friend In Precious Pepper Vain, I yet again get to prove to you just how far my resilience goes, and how badly I want to bring light to Freedom as a brand, but think not that everything you see before you is all that exists in the midst of a proverb and teaching.”
She pauses now before smiling even more.
Kaia Grainger: “Because while you’ve heard of people being afraid of the dark, many have yet to see exactly what it is the light can do, besides shine bright.”
With such an ominous declaration of words she hands the microphone back to the staff and steadily makes her way back up the ramp.
The futuristic sound of Slaves “I’d rather see your star Explode” the NoirBlvd Remix begins to highlight the arena as a bright light appears at the top of the rafters before gliding down to the stage as a video package begins to roll, seeing the image of the LightBringer herself, Kaia Grainger, just before that image fades into a completely different visage of color that flies through in a bokeh like effect. the glimmering exposure giving off a sort of decadence just before the name of “StarShine Productions” begins to roll across the bottom of the screen and the video package fades as Kaia ascends to the stage. The long white ensemble we’ve seen featured over her frame in several video feeds from No Man’s Land II until now, flowing behind her as she makes her way onto the stage, a long train following behind her in billowing fabric as she stops mid way in her descent down the ramp to remove the overcoat she was wearing, her new ring attire of white and silver beads adorning her frame as she smiles to the camera, a caplet of tulle still flowing behind her but in much smaller quantities as she ducks inside of the ring, being handed a microphone she begins to speak in her quiet, but confident way.
Kaia Grainger: “Hello Boston, it's been a while since we’ve had a chance to chat.”
She offered with a smirk as the crowd in the Matthews Arena began to cheer, and rightfully so considering their hometown love. Kaia waited patiently before their chants could die down.
Kaia Grainger: “Last time we were here, I was facing some of the finest wrestlers I’ve known, All of us attempting to grab hold of the opportunity to fight for the Freedom Championship. Some would say it was unexpected that at the end of the match, I was the one who emerged victoriously.”
Kaia prompted a soft smirk at that thought before she continued.
Kaia Grainger: “Its easy to mistake a quiet demeanor as one who doesn’t have confidence. It is also easy to misjudge talent based primarily on ambition alone, and yet here I stand, the number one contender to the title that TJ Techniques holds. What an excellent champion he is as well.”
She couldn’t help but show love to the very man who she would be facing soon for that title of his, letting the crowd show their love for the man as well, before she continued.
Kaia Grainger: “I’ve gone through some changes recently, some of which you make be taking note of. I’ve shown how badly I’ve wanted every opportunity I’ve been granted and now. . . Tonight alongside my tag team partner and friend In Precious Pepper Vain, I yet again get to prove to you just how far my resilience goes, and how badly I want to bring light to Freedom as a brand, but think not that everything you see before you is all that exists in the midst of a proverb and teaching.”
She pauses now before smiling even more.
Kaia Grainger: “Because while you’ve heard of people being afraid of the dark, many have yet to see exactly what it is the light can do, besides shine bright.”
With such an ominous declaration of words she hands the microphone back to the staff and steadily makes her way back up the ramp.
MATCH TWO: SINGLES
Cole Gregory vs Coby Quik
Cole Gregory vs Coby Quik
RECAP Cole Gregory was in the ring, waiting for this match to get started. Coby soon made it to the entrance way but BAM! Donovan Rich takes him out with a steel chair. He slams it down on Coby over and over before Cole exits the ring and chases Rich off. Cole checks on Coby, who’s holding his ribs in pain. The match is then called off. WINNER No Contest METHOD N/A MATCH LENGTH N/A FINISHING MOVE N/A |
BACKSTAGE
[Jennifer Yang is backstage, carefully taping her hands. She takes her time with it as she occasionally looks up to address the camera before her.]
Jennifer Yang: So Michael Marou… You enjoyed cheating Mighty Sparrow out of a possible win last episode huh? Proud of that, were you? What did you call it? Fun?
[She flexes her hands to check the fitting of the tape.]
Jennifer Yang: And now you can’t wait to take me out so you can go back to the fun?
[With her hands still raised between her face and the camera, she clenches them into fists. She gets into a fighting stance and her face blurs out as the lens focuses on her fists as she does a one-two punch combo.]
Jennifer Yang: No.
[Her voice drops as she does another combo, just short of hitting the camera. Her face shows no trace of emotions except her eyes, a stony hard gaze.]
Jennifer Yang: For too long this company has gone unchecked, what with the ROTTEN running loose with no consequences. And then there’s you wanting to do the same? No!
[She emphasises the last word before lunging at the camera as she does another striking combo. The camera backs up, giving her space. She faces the lens with another intense look.]
Jennifer Yang: I’m someone you can easily “take out” like I’m nothing more than just a little barrier standing in your way. I’m the great rushing river intercepting your path because I’ve got a place to be. The fans need to be reassured that this company will not go down with the ROTTEN. Those against the ROTTEN need to know that they’re not alone. I am here and I am fighting the battles with them. And tonight, I am fighting you. You may not be one of them but you share a similar style of thinking we’re beneath you. We’re not. I’m not.
[She does another combo before pulling her fists back to get her face right up to the camera. Fire burns in those eyes of hers, the same merciless flames from Night Two of No Man’s Land II. The same unforgiving rage from when she couldn’t drop the ring bell.]
Jennifer Yang: And I won’t stop until all this is over.
[She continues glaring at the camera as the scene fades to black.]
[Jennifer Yang is backstage, carefully taping her hands. She takes her time with it as she occasionally looks up to address the camera before her.]
Jennifer Yang: So Michael Marou… You enjoyed cheating Mighty Sparrow out of a possible win last episode huh? Proud of that, were you? What did you call it? Fun?
[She flexes her hands to check the fitting of the tape.]
Jennifer Yang: And now you can’t wait to take me out so you can go back to the fun?
[With her hands still raised between her face and the camera, she clenches them into fists. She gets into a fighting stance and her face blurs out as the lens focuses on her fists as she does a one-two punch combo.]
Jennifer Yang: No.
[Her voice drops as she does another combo, just short of hitting the camera. Her face shows no trace of emotions except her eyes, a stony hard gaze.]
Jennifer Yang: For too long this company has gone unchecked, what with the ROTTEN running loose with no consequences. And then there’s you wanting to do the same? No!
[She emphasises the last word before lunging at the camera as she does another striking combo. The camera backs up, giving her space. She faces the lens with another intense look.]
Jennifer Yang: I’m someone you can easily “take out” like I’m nothing more than just a little barrier standing in your way. I’m the great rushing river intercepting your path because I’ve got a place to be. The fans need to be reassured that this company will not go down with the ROTTEN. Those against the ROTTEN need to know that they’re not alone. I am here and I am fighting the battles with them. And tonight, I am fighting you. You may not be one of them but you share a similar style of thinking we’re beneath you. We’re not. I’m not.
[She does another combo before pulling her fists back to get her face right up to the camera. Fire burns in those eyes of hers, the same merciless flames from Night Two of No Man’s Land II. The same unforgiving rage from when she couldn’t drop the ring bell.]
Jennifer Yang: And I won’t stop until all this is over.
[She continues glaring at the camera as the scene fades to black.]
MATCH THREE: SINGLES
Michael Marou vs Jennifer Yang
Michael Marou vs Jennifer Yang
RECAP When the bell rang, the look in the competitors eyes showed that neither of them liked one another in any sense of the word. Jennifer looked to have an edge, one that she never really showed previously. Marou wanted to prove a point, especially since Sparrow had been sitting ringside at the announcer booth. The two fighters went toe to toe in the middle of the ring, beating the hell out of each other. The two were evenly matched though, and Marou was showing a serious side as well.. Eventually, their all out brawl spilled out to ringside, the official being surprisingly lenient when it came to letting them handle their problems. And they did just that, beating each other all around the ringside area. Marou went to bounce the head of Jennifer off of the commentary table, sending the former MWE Heavyweight Champion staggering back. Marou was quick to roll her back into the ring but then he turned around and started to trash talk Mighty Sparrow. Sparrow laughed and waved him off. Marou took his time getting back into the ring and because of this, when Marou ducked into the ring, Jennifer threw herself into the ropes, sending the middle set snapping up into the groin of Marou. Quick to act, Jennifer, hit Marou with her #VICTORYROLL! She got the three count and the win!!! WINNER Jennifer Yang METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 7:10 FINISHING MOVE #VICTORYROLL |
BACKSTAGE
We cut backstage to JPK’s locker room and he’s knocked out and bloodied! It doesn’t take long for EMT’s to show up and check on him. The scene cuts to the hallway and Rory is knocked out too! Just what is going on!? Backstage staff quickly checks on the ROTTEN competitor but he soon shoves them away and walks off.
We cut backstage to JPK’s locker room and he’s knocked out and bloodied! It doesn’t take long for EMT’s to show up and check on him. The scene cuts to the hallway and Rory is knocked out too! Just what is going on!? Backstage staff quickly checks on the ROTTEN competitor but he soon shoves them away and walks off.
MATCH FOUR: SINGLES
JPK vs Rory
JPK vs Rory
RECAP Match Cancelled WINNER N/A METHOD N/A MATCH LENGTH N/A FINISHING MOVE N/A |
BACKSTAGE
Cutting backstage, Lizzie Jones
Lizzie: Donovan, Donovan...Donnie, can I call you Don? Great, good man. So listen up, Don, ‘cause I’ll only say this once.
She clears her throat.
Lizzie: People act like you’re a joke, but not me. I even said this match, facing you, wouldn’t be bad and you got real defensive. You expect to be belittled, yeah? Overlooked, laughed at. Not me though. See, unlike most here, I‘ve been through all of that too.
Her eyes roll.
Lizzie: But the difference between us is you ran off to get help, where I made myself be stronger. I willed myself into getting back up, I spent hours grinding myself into the best physical shape I’ve ever been in. Not only did I recover from horrific injuries, I came back BETTER. You, though? You lost confidence in yourself. You decided that the system is against you and therefore you should complain and whine about it.
Lizzie scoffs.
Lizzie: Newsflash, the system is against me too. You think the world is as accepting of a woman marrying a woman as it pretends to be? You think someone like Nathan Callaghan wants me as a champion here? But guess what? It doesn’t matter, because I won’t be chained. Do you see this?
She lifts the US Title into view.
Lizie: This is my proof, definitive and undisputed, that I am one of the baddest bitches here. No handouts, no help from anyone, I won this on my own merit. I won this because I’m tough enough to persist until I get what I want.
Moving closer to the camera, she brings nearer to it.
Lizzie: No cop out, no whining, just a badass doing whatever it takes. Shame you lost yourself along the way or we might have had that in common. Cya soon, Don.
End.
Cutting backstage, Lizzie Jones
Lizzie: Donovan, Donovan...Donnie, can I call you Don? Great, good man. So listen up, Don, ‘cause I’ll only say this once.
She clears her throat.
Lizzie: People act like you’re a joke, but not me. I even said this match, facing you, wouldn’t be bad and you got real defensive. You expect to be belittled, yeah? Overlooked, laughed at. Not me though. See, unlike most here, I‘ve been through all of that too.
Her eyes roll.
Lizzie: But the difference between us is you ran off to get help, where I made myself be stronger. I willed myself into getting back up, I spent hours grinding myself into the best physical shape I’ve ever been in. Not only did I recover from horrific injuries, I came back BETTER. You, though? You lost confidence in yourself. You decided that the system is against you and therefore you should complain and whine about it.
Lizzie scoffs.
Lizzie: Newsflash, the system is against me too. You think the world is as accepting of a woman marrying a woman as it pretends to be? You think someone like Nathan Callaghan wants me as a champion here? But guess what? It doesn’t matter, because I won’t be chained. Do you see this?
She lifts the US Title into view.
Lizie: This is my proof, definitive and undisputed, that I am one of the baddest bitches here. No handouts, no help from anyone, I won this on my own merit. I won this because I’m tough enough to persist until I get what I want.
Moving closer to the camera, she brings nearer to it.
Lizzie: No cop out, no whining, just a badass doing whatever it takes. Shame you lost yourself along the way or we might have had that in common. Cya soon, Don.
End.
MATCH FIVE: SINGLES
Donovan Rich vs Lizzie Jones
Donovan Rich vs Lizzie Jones
RECAP Just as the bell starts ringing Lizzie broke out in a sprint across the ring, knocking Donovan down to the mat with a vicious spear. Lizzie quickly mounts her opponent and begins driving her fists into Donovan’s face as it was obvious how much Lizzie disliked Rich already. But as much as Lizzie had disdain for Rich, she also had a vicious side like no other that came out when that bell rang. As Lizzie pushes herself back to her feet she spat down at Donovan and told him to get up and that she was more than he bargained for. Each time Donovan would work to get himself back to his feet Lizzie would drop him back down with a move, first a DDT and then a snap suplex. Having easily imposed her will on the mat in the early stages of the match Lizzie allowed Donovan to get back up to his feet. Lunging forward Lizzie was greeted with a strong knee from Donovan sending her staggering backwards. Donovan continues forward throwing a few inside leg kicks to the left leg of Lizzie. Donovan then drives another knee into Lizzie’s gut before he drops her with a running bulldog. Lizzie instantly grabs at her head after it bounced off the mat. Donovan then hit the ropes before hitting Lizzie with a running shooting star press. Donovan pins Lizzie but only gets a two count. Suddenly Coby Quik is ringside with a chair! He slides in but Donovan nails him with a dropkick, sending the chair in Coby’s face! Lizzie then hits Donovan with the Calamity!! She pins and gets the three count!!! The match is over but Lizzie goes to hit the Calamity on Coby who is stirring for good measure but NO! Cole Gregory makes the safe and takes Lizzie out with Cole-Lateral Damage! Donovan stirs and goes to attack Cole but this time, Quik nails Rich with the chair! Quik and Cole then look at each other and give a nod as the damage is done. WINNER Lizzie Jones METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 10:12 FINISHING MOVE The Calamity |
BACKSTAGE
Backstage the first image is that of the Liberty Pro King of New York championship. The champion to hold it however is not seen. The championship belt is draped onto an unfolded table, sprawled out with both ends of the belt extended. The left hand of Mighty Sparrow reaches out and traces the metal grooves of the championship belt in silence. Sparrow’s fingers curl slowly before they begin tapping in succession over the main plate of the championship.
Sparrow: He did beat me, ain’t? Marou that is. I mean to say, it took two Court Martials, him accidentally being a battering ram to the referee, a thumb to the eye, and even then he barely pulled it out but he...Beat me. Not only did himself beat me, but not many receipts from me was also given. You may think for a moment that it’s aah...Disappointment from losin’, disappointment from what he did do. Nah, it’s a disappointment from what he didn’t do.
For a moment it sounds perplexing, the point that the King of New York is trying to get at. Another drumming of the fingers on the title and his eyes continue to stare down at what is his, what has been his for so long.
Sparrow: It’s that I expected...More. Man comes and batters you after you wrestled ya soul out, you expect him to be this dominating monster. You expect that time is ticking down on you, you expect to be in rehab for months down the line, especially the way he does like to talk. Then you get in the ring wit’ him, you stand toe-to-toe wit’ him, and you realize... Michael Marou is right when he says you ain’t should take the Twitter fingers from him seriously. Cosmic level annoyance yes, but not so serious on the talking. You realize that Michael Marou ain’t this force of reckoning he claimin’ to be. He’s just a man desperate to prove how great he is, because to expose it not that all true would be the real pain, ain’t?
A pause. The side of Sparrow’s lip twitches. The underside lid of his left eye. Needless to say...Marou’s very existence gets under his skin in a way not seen before.
Sparrow: I ain’t mind a little cunning for opponents. I may complain about gettin’ clocked in the junk but there ain’t much point in arguing it down when unique strategies are presented. I ain’t one to use it but, I ain’t one to completely decry it. You win how you win. What I do take issue with is when some T-Block From Tetris lookin’ backside play like he God himself, and has to swipe every trick in the book just to step up and keep up and the best thing he can say after? ‘Win’s a win’. Nah. Nah Mikey. Nah boy, never that.
Rather than continue on the diatribe, Sparrow lets out a slow exhale and decides to change tracks. In the background as Sparrow speaks again, Beatrix Davies and Danica Thetcher of Independence Pro’s WisE walk and talk in the background. The two parties completely somehow miss each other.
Sparrow: Speakin’ of people who hustle? Tonight me and Marou switch up. He gets Jennifer Yang and I...I get Alex Reeves. Alex “I’ll use this chair as your suppository” Reeves. Alex “The Referee Is Beggin’ Me To Stop But I Ain’t Heard No Bell” Reeves. Well... I talk all this time like Marou ain’t all the big threat he thinks he is or wants me to believe, and I get Reeves. Well, ask and you receive as they say. Roll with me, Reeves...Let me prove that the King of New York is still very much on his throne...See me.
Sparrow throws his championship up over his shoulder and walks off-screen.
Backstage the first image is that of the Liberty Pro King of New York championship. The champion to hold it however is not seen. The championship belt is draped onto an unfolded table, sprawled out with both ends of the belt extended. The left hand of Mighty Sparrow reaches out and traces the metal grooves of the championship belt in silence. Sparrow’s fingers curl slowly before they begin tapping in succession over the main plate of the championship.
Sparrow: He did beat me, ain’t? Marou that is. I mean to say, it took two Court Martials, him accidentally being a battering ram to the referee, a thumb to the eye, and even then he barely pulled it out but he...Beat me. Not only did himself beat me, but not many receipts from me was also given. You may think for a moment that it’s aah...Disappointment from losin’, disappointment from what he did do. Nah, it’s a disappointment from what he didn’t do.
For a moment it sounds perplexing, the point that the King of New York is trying to get at. Another drumming of the fingers on the title and his eyes continue to stare down at what is his, what has been his for so long.
Sparrow: It’s that I expected...More. Man comes and batters you after you wrestled ya soul out, you expect him to be this dominating monster. You expect that time is ticking down on you, you expect to be in rehab for months down the line, especially the way he does like to talk. Then you get in the ring wit’ him, you stand toe-to-toe wit’ him, and you realize... Michael Marou is right when he says you ain’t should take the Twitter fingers from him seriously. Cosmic level annoyance yes, but not so serious on the talking. You realize that Michael Marou ain’t this force of reckoning he claimin’ to be. He’s just a man desperate to prove how great he is, because to expose it not that all true would be the real pain, ain’t?
A pause. The side of Sparrow’s lip twitches. The underside lid of his left eye. Needless to say...Marou’s very existence gets under his skin in a way not seen before.
Sparrow: I ain’t mind a little cunning for opponents. I may complain about gettin’ clocked in the junk but there ain’t much point in arguing it down when unique strategies are presented. I ain’t one to use it but, I ain’t one to completely decry it. You win how you win. What I do take issue with is when some T-Block From Tetris lookin’ backside play like he God himself, and has to swipe every trick in the book just to step up and keep up and the best thing he can say after? ‘Win’s a win’. Nah. Nah Mikey. Nah boy, never that.
Rather than continue on the diatribe, Sparrow lets out a slow exhale and decides to change tracks. In the background as Sparrow speaks again, Beatrix Davies and Danica Thetcher of Independence Pro’s WisE walk and talk in the background. The two parties completely somehow miss each other.
Sparrow: Speakin’ of people who hustle? Tonight me and Marou switch up. He gets Jennifer Yang and I...I get Alex Reeves. Alex “I’ll use this chair as your suppository” Reeves. Alex “The Referee Is Beggin’ Me To Stop But I Ain’t Heard No Bell” Reeves. Well... I talk all this time like Marou ain’t all the big threat he thinks he is or wants me to believe, and I get Reeves. Well, ask and you receive as they say. Roll with me, Reeves...Let me prove that the King of New York is still very much on his throne...See me.
Sparrow throws his championship up over his shoulder and walks off-screen.
MATCH SIX: SINGLES
Alex Reeves vs Mighty Sparrow
Alex Reeves vs Mighty Sparrow
RECAP The match begins with Mighty Sparrow charging in at Alex but Alex knocks him down with a dropkick. This puts Sparrow on the defensive as Alex immediately takes control of the match. Mighty Sparrow can’t seem to figure out Reeves, who has him on the defensive with a plethora of strikes. Suddenly Sparrow finds himself at the receiving end of a snap DDT. Mighty Sparrow lies on his back for a moment before Alex jumps and lands a knee drop right across Sparrow’s face. Alex holds her knee against Sparrow’s face for a few extra moments with a big smirk on her face before the referee forces her to release Sparrow. Alex drops down and covers the KONY Champ, but there’s a kickout at two. Alex doesn’t seem to mind as she stands back up and pulls Sparrow up to his feet. Sparrow reverses this with a shot to Alex’s head that staggers her backwards. Sparrow charges in at Alex, but is met with a stiff kick to the knee that sends him off balance. Alex uses this to use the ropes and deliver a springboard roundhouse kick that knocks Sparrow off of his feet. As Sparrow gets up on his feet, Alex gets on the apron before nailing Sparrow with a slingshot spear. As Sparrow lays on the mat, Alex talks trash, telling Sparrow he ain’t got shit on her. Alex then charges in and tries to hit Sparrow with Leaping complete shot - Sweet Dreams but Sparrow dodges out of the way. When Alex turns around, Mighty Sparrow drops her with Leaf Hurricane (Counter Scorpion Kick followed by a Pele Kick) but Sparrow isn’t done yet. He walks over to the camera and points at it before yelling “Watch this Marou! This is your future!” Sparrow charges at Alex and nails The Notorious K.I.C.K. - Standing Double Foot Stomp. He then pins her and picks up the three count and the win. WINNER Mighty Sparrow METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 12:10 FINISHING MOVE The Notorious K.I.C.K. |
BACKSTAGE
The sound of hastened footsteps echoes in the halls backstage as Tim Anderson hurries to catch his target before he disappears into the locker room.
Tim Anderson: “Chuck!”
The Smartest Man in Wrestling pauses, waiting patiently for Tim to catch up. Tim keels over slightly, trying to catch his breath.
Tim Anderson: “Do you… have… a minute?”
Chuck offers a small nod.
Chuck Matthews: “Absolutely. Take all the time you need.”
He folds his hands behind his back, an amused look on his face as Tim straightens up, his breathng starting to slow.
Tim Anderson: “Thank you… so. Tonight, you have a headline match against OTK, who you have… something of a history with, as I’ve been told.”
Chuck stares at Tim for a moment, furrowing his brow before his eyes widen slightly.
Chuck Matthews: “Oh! Right, yes, the whole Millennium affair. Yes… he and his group hacked into my network for a night. Released an entire pay-per-view free of charge. I’d nearly forgotten about that ordeal.”
Tim Anderson: “Is tonight a measure of revenge for you, then? You’ll be taking on the leader of ROTTEN, and likely the mastermind behind the breach.”
Chuck frowns.
Chuck Matthews: “You know, it’s remarkable, really, what some positive public relations can do. We handled the issue quickly and professionally. People were reimbursed, given tickets to our other events, gift incentives, some nifty freebies, the works. It cost a pretty penny, make no mistake about that, but our current projections show we’ll have made that back by… oh, probably June? Handle a problem quickly and give the people what they’d like, and they’ll buy whatever it is you have to sell. Our cruise line reopens this summer, and we’re already booked solid.”
His smile fades for a moment, and he looks into Tim’s face.
Chuck Matthews: “The reason, Mr. Anderson, that I’ve excelled in my line of work is because I’ve been able to take any setback, any failure, any bump in the road, and turn it into a success. I know precisely why a group like ROTTEN may not like me; I’m everything they can’t stand. I’m an entrepreneur. I’m a creator. I’m a strategist. No doubt they hoped that hitting me in my checkbook would draw my ire, but my company does far, far more than simply airing a few wrestling shows. It’ll take more than a stubbed toe to topple a giant.”
He straightens up, that polite smile returning to his face.
Chuck Matthews: “Besides… Miss van Beek is more than capable of cleaning up her own messes, and she knows precisely where to find me if she needs my… unique perspective. For now, I’m simply here to put on a show for these Liberty fans.”
Tim Anderson: “About that… you’ve yet to win a match since arriving in Liberty Pro. Your debut was a loss to Emery Layton, and the last we saw you, you were on the losing side of a hardcore match against Lizzie Jones.”
Chuck Matthews: “True, very true… it really hasn’t been going my way, has it? Oh dear, I hope I’m not losing my touch… Though, when I think back, there does seem to be a common denominator in those matches, don’t you agree?”
Tim Anderson: “Xavier Laroux.”
Chuck Matthews: “There it is.”
Tim Anderson: “Do you expect he’ll intervene in your match tonight?”
Chuck Matthews: “Oh, I’ve certainly considered it. I can’t imagine what I’ve done to make the man so angry. I’ve barely stepped foot in this company and he’s trying to chase me out with a stick. It’s all very strange, don’t you think?”
Tim Anderson: “I can’t really comment-”
Chuck Matthews: “It’s unfortunate, really… Paranoia is an ugly thing, Mr. Anderson. It eats at you. Makes you do desperate things. Mr. Laroux, very recently, has been at the top of the food chain. Two top championships, in line for a third, and it all got pulled out from under him so… quickly. Losing in Valiant… GEW closing… failing at his shot here in Liberty.”
He sighs.
Chuck Matthews: “That’s the danger of being at the top… you get so wrapped up in it, and suddenly nothing else matters except holding that spot, clinging to the respect it brings, hanging onto that power by any means necessary. And if you lose it…. Oh dear. Men can do some ugly things to try and get it back.”
He trails off, staring off somewhere in the distance.
Tim Anderson: “Are you… speaking from experience, Chuck?”
Chuck snaps out of his trance, focusing back on Tim.
Chuck Matthews: “Isn’t that the question? Perhaps that’s why I’m here, isn’t it? World championships, wrestler of the year, enough gold to fill a room… but it’s been so long since I’ve been at the top, hasn’t it? Once upon a time, you couldn’t have a conversation about the best wrestlers in the world without hearing my name. Maybe that’s it… maybe I’m here for one last big run. Just to see if I can. Just to see if this business has passed me by.”
He offers a warm smile, and seeing Tim’s unease expression, he continues.
Chuck Matthews: “I suppose time will answer those questions for me, won’t they? For now… I’m having too much fun to worry either way.”
The sound of hastened footsteps echoes in the halls backstage as Tim Anderson hurries to catch his target before he disappears into the locker room.
Tim Anderson: “Chuck!”
The Smartest Man in Wrestling pauses, waiting patiently for Tim to catch up. Tim keels over slightly, trying to catch his breath.
Tim Anderson: “Do you… have… a minute?”
Chuck offers a small nod.
Chuck Matthews: “Absolutely. Take all the time you need.”
He folds his hands behind his back, an amused look on his face as Tim straightens up, his breathng starting to slow.
Tim Anderson: “Thank you… so. Tonight, you have a headline match against OTK, who you have… something of a history with, as I’ve been told.”
Chuck stares at Tim for a moment, furrowing his brow before his eyes widen slightly.
Chuck Matthews: “Oh! Right, yes, the whole Millennium affair. Yes… he and his group hacked into my network for a night. Released an entire pay-per-view free of charge. I’d nearly forgotten about that ordeal.”
Tim Anderson: “Is tonight a measure of revenge for you, then? You’ll be taking on the leader of ROTTEN, and likely the mastermind behind the breach.”
Chuck frowns.
Chuck Matthews: “You know, it’s remarkable, really, what some positive public relations can do. We handled the issue quickly and professionally. People were reimbursed, given tickets to our other events, gift incentives, some nifty freebies, the works. It cost a pretty penny, make no mistake about that, but our current projections show we’ll have made that back by… oh, probably June? Handle a problem quickly and give the people what they’d like, and they’ll buy whatever it is you have to sell. Our cruise line reopens this summer, and we’re already booked solid.”
His smile fades for a moment, and he looks into Tim’s face.
Chuck Matthews: “The reason, Mr. Anderson, that I’ve excelled in my line of work is because I’ve been able to take any setback, any failure, any bump in the road, and turn it into a success. I know precisely why a group like ROTTEN may not like me; I’m everything they can’t stand. I’m an entrepreneur. I’m a creator. I’m a strategist. No doubt they hoped that hitting me in my checkbook would draw my ire, but my company does far, far more than simply airing a few wrestling shows. It’ll take more than a stubbed toe to topple a giant.”
He straightens up, that polite smile returning to his face.
Chuck Matthews: “Besides… Miss van Beek is more than capable of cleaning up her own messes, and she knows precisely where to find me if she needs my… unique perspective. For now, I’m simply here to put on a show for these Liberty fans.”
Tim Anderson: “About that… you’ve yet to win a match since arriving in Liberty Pro. Your debut was a loss to Emery Layton, and the last we saw you, you were on the losing side of a hardcore match against Lizzie Jones.”
Chuck Matthews: “True, very true… it really hasn’t been going my way, has it? Oh dear, I hope I’m not losing my touch… Though, when I think back, there does seem to be a common denominator in those matches, don’t you agree?”
Tim Anderson: “Xavier Laroux.”
Chuck Matthews: “There it is.”
Tim Anderson: “Do you expect he’ll intervene in your match tonight?”
Chuck Matthews: “Oh, I’ve certainly considered it. I can’t imagine what I’ve done to make the man so angry. I’ve barely stepped foot in this company and he’s trying to chase me out with a stick. It’s all very strange, don’t you think?”
Tim Anderson: “I can’t really comment-”
Chuck Matthews: “It’s unfortunate, really… Paranoia is an ugly thing, Mr. Anderson. It eats at you. Makes you do desperate things. Mr. Laroux, very recently, has been at the top of the food chain. Two top championships, in line for a third, and it all got pulled out from under him so… quickly. Losing in Valiant… GEW closing… failing at his shot here in Liberty.”
He sighs.
Chuck Matthews: “That’s the danger of being at the top… you get so wrapped up in it, and suddenly nothing else matters except holding that spot, clinging to the respect it brings, hanging onto that power by any means necessary. And if you lose it…. Oh dear. Men can do some ugly things to try and get it back.”
He trails off, staring off somewhere in the distance.
Tim Anderson: “Are you… speaking from experience, Chuck?”
Chuck snaps out of his trance, focusing back on Tim.
Chuck Matthews: “Isn’t that the question? Perhaps that’s why I’m here, isn’t it? World championships, wrestler of the year, enough gold to fill a room… but it’s been so long since I’ve been at the top, hasn’t it? Once upon a time, you couldn’t have a conversation about the best wrestlers in the world without hearing my name. Maybe that’s it… maybe I’m here for one last big run. Just to see if I can. Just to see if this business has passed me by.”
He offers a warm smile, and seeing Tim’s unease expression, he continues.
Chuck Matthews: “I suppose time will answer those questions for me, won’t they? For now… I’m having too much fun to worry either way.”
HEADLINE: SINGLES
OTK vs Chuck Matthews
OTK vs Chuck Matthews
RECAP The match between Chuck Matthews and OTK was an intense affair as the two shared their dislike of each other since ROTTEN invaded Millennium. The two veterans went back and forth for a bit until the fight spilled outside of the ring. OTK takes control by shoving Chuck into the barrier. He then grabs Chuck and whips him into the steel steps. OTK picks Chuck up and slides him into the ring and pins him but Matthews kicks out after two. The match seemed to be all OTK, with Chuck finding ways to reverse here and there, but largely taking the hits and getting by on simple survival. OTK picks Chuck up and goes for a finish but Matthews counters it into a roll up but OTK kicks out after two. Matthews gets up and hits OTK with a swinging neckbreaker, starting to swing the momentum back in his favor. OTK battles back, getting Chuck to the ropes. Chuck goes for his spear but OTK jumps over. On the rebound, Chuck takes him down with a bulldog and scores another two count before OTK kicks out. Chuck puts him in a dragon sleeper in the center of the ring. OTK struggles, but refuses to tap. Suddenly ROTTEN, Micaela and the two interns, are making their way down to the ring to help OTK. Chuck breaks the hold as ROTTEN jumps to the apron, ready for a fight. OTK claps slowly, taunting Chuck to "make your next move, smart guy." Grace van Beek, Rien Riekert and the rest of her security team appear on the stage. Grace points and security charges the ring and attacks ROTTEN from behind! OTK can’t believe what he’s seeing as his plan falls apart. He yells for ROTTEN as they try to fight off Grace's security. OTK turns around right into that signature spear! ONE! TWO! THREE!!! DING DING DING!!! OTK has finally been pinned! ROTTEN tries to get to him but security holds him back as Chuck stands over OTK, still laid out from the spear. Chuck looks up at GVB at the top of the entrance way, scratching his chin as though unsure what to make of the assist. WINNER Chuck Matthews METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 10:10 FINISHING MOVE Spear |
BACKSTAGE
?: "It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you..."
TJ Techniques utters the opening bar of Eric B & Rakim's "I Know You Got Soul" to address the recent LPW mini break. The Freedom Champion is dressed to compete as leans up against his locker.
TJ Techniques: The scheduling was out of my control. But after taking a lil pause for the cause, we are back. Liberty Pro is back. Your boy is back. Where else would you expect your Freedom Champion to be but in the main event. And look who is joining me. Three of the finest in Liberty Pro. And when I say "finest", I'm not talking about their looks. That part goes without saying. I'm talking about three of the best wrestlers in Liberty, regardless of brand. It's gonna be a tag team match, y'all. Precious Pepper V and my girl Kaia Granger against yours truly... and Helena Noir.
His voice trails off after mentioning his recent rival.
TJ Techniques: Helena, Helena, Helena. We meet again. In another main event, no less. It was just about three months ago when we met in our first main event together. You remember that, right? You remember that Elimination Chamber? The match where this right here, Old Glory?
TJ nods his head to the right, where the Freedom Champion rests in all its glory across his shoulder.
TJ Techniques: ...Got put around my waist when I outlasted you. But that wouldn't be the last time we'd be in a main event together, right? Nah. We were right back at it the very next week. Me and the homie Sparrow against you and Jordan Parker-Kane. That time, it was you getting your hand raised. It didn't matter if I was in the ring when that deciding fall occurred or not. The bottom line was that your side went out there and did what y'all had to do. You went out there and did what you had to do and that was secure another shot at this.
TJ points to the Freedom Championship.
TJ Techniques: Which brought us to No Man's Land II. You wondered aloud that if it weren't for me being the last man out of that pod in the Elimination Chamber... if it was simply just me and you, one on one, would I have beaten you for this? Well, judging by what's currently not on your shoulder, I think we both know how that one went.
TJ slaps the center plate of the Freedom Championship before continuing.
TJ Techniques: We've had many battles, Helena. Many battles. At the end of the day, despite what may have been said on both sides, I do respect you. You pushed me to get to this.
TJ gestures to the Freedom Championship by shrugging his right shoulder.
TJ Techniques: You made me raise my game to win this. So I salute you for that. This time around, though, we're not going up against each other. We're not at odds for once. We got to team up to take on Kaia and Precious Pep. Now, I know we don't got no matching gear or a cool name or even a fire finisher. We're not shopping buddies like Pep and Kaia. We ain't doing no photoshoots with each other like our opponents. But let me tell you what me and you got, Helena. We got familiarity. I know what you can do in that ring. You know what I can do. You've pushed me to my limits. I've pushed you to yours. You've seen me dig deep. I've seen you push forward when most woulda quit. When you've gone to battle like you and I have, there's a respect there. We don't have to be best friends. We don't have to plan modeling shoots together like the two of them. But as long as you have my back out there, I'll have yours a hundred percent. You can bet that.
TJ nods before switching focus.
TJ Techniques: The last time three fourths of this match were in the ring, it was to determine the #1 contender to Old Glory. But in the end, I always knew it was gonna be you, Kaia. I never doubted you for a second. Biased? Sure. But if you know me, you know I always keep it a buck. Running it back against Helena woulda been something. Precious Pep woulda been a tough opponent. I'm sure even Jacob Daniels woulda provided his own challenge. But you, Kaia? You might just offer me the biggest challenge of anyone involved in that match.
Tj steps off the locker.
TJ Techniques: That's why I gotta go out there and establish things between you and I tonight. My title's not on the line, sure. I could tell Helena to F Off and leave her out there high and dry, which is something that homegirl in your corner would do. But I've never rolled like that and I never will. I don't take this as "just another match". When you hold this title, you hold a certain responsibility to go all out. When you're in the main event, you gotta ball out. And when you're standing across the ring from Kaia Granger, you must give it your very best.
TJ Techniques: Me and you are cool, Kaia. In a business filled with liars, manipulators, cheats and backstabbers, you're one of the very few I'd consider a friend. We've been opponents. We've been tag partners. We'll be opponents again tonight and beyond. From being in the ring with you to standing on that apron in awe, I know just how good you are. Which is why I gotta bring it here tonight. I can't have you going into this title match of ours with momentum. I can't have you going into that match with a W over my head. Which is why I need to establish things tonight. Now this is the part of the interview where I'd tell the ops to "Peep the Technique". But you know me, Kaia. You know how I get down. I'll see y'all out there...
?: "It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you..."
TJ Techniques utters the opening bar of Eric B & Rakim's "I Know You Got Soul" to address the recent LPW mini break. The Freedom Champion is dressed to compete as leans up against his locker.
TJ Techniques: The scheduling was out of my control. But after taking a lil pause for the cause, we are back. Liberty Pro is back. Your boy is back. Where else would you expect your Freedom Champion to be but in the main event. And look who is joining me. Three of the finest in Liberty Pro. And when I say "finest", I'm not talking about their looks. That part goes without saying. I'm talking about three of the best wrestlers in Liberty, regardless of brand. It's gonna be a tag team match, y'all. Precious Pepper V and my girl Kaia Granger against yours truly... and Helena Noir.
His voice trails off after mentioning his recent rival.
TJ Techniques: Helena, Helena, Helena. We meet again. In another main event, no less. It was just about three months ago when we met in our first main event together. You remember that, right? You remember that Elimination Chamber? The match where this right here, Old Glory?
TJ nods his head to the right, where the Freedom Champion rests in all its glory across his shoulder.
TJ Techniques: ...Got put around my waist when I outlasted you. But that wouldn't be the last time we'd be in a main event together, right? Nah. We were right back at it the very next week. Me and the homie Sparrow against you and Jordan Parker-Kane. That time, it was you getting your hand raised. It didn't matter if I was in the ring when that deciding fall occurred or not. The bottom line was that your side went out there and did what y'all had to do. You went out there and did what you had to do and that was secure another shot at this.
TJ points to the Freedom Championship.
TJ Techniques: Which brought us to No Man's Land II. You wondered aloud that if it weren't for me being the last man out of that pod in the Elimination Chamber... if it was simply just me and you, one on one, would I have beaten you for this? Well, judging by what's currently not on your shoulder, I think we both know how that one went.
TJ slaps the center plate of the Freedom Championship before continuing.
TJ Techniques: We've had many battles, Helena. Many battles. At the end of the day, despite what may have been said on both sides, I do respect you. You pushed me to get to this.
TJ gestures to the Freedom Championship by shrugging his right shoulder.
TJ Techniques: You made me raise my game to win this. So I salute you for that. This time around, though, we're not going up against each other. We're not at odds for once. We got to team up to take on Kaia and Precious Pep. Now, I know we don't got no matching gear or a cool name or even a fire finisher. We're not shopping buddies like Pep and Kaia. We ain't doing no photoshoots with each other like our opponents. But let me tell you what me and you got, Helena. We got familiarity. I know what you can do in that ring. You know what I can do. You've pushed me to my limits. I've pushed you to yours. You've seen me dig deep. I've seen you push forward when most woulda quit. When you've gone to battle like you and I have, there's a respect there. We don't have to be best friends. We don't have to plan modeling shoots together like the two of them. But as long as you have my back out there, I'll have yours a hundred percent. You can bet that.
TJ nods before switching focus.
TJ Techniques: The last time three fourths of this match were in the ring, it was to determine the #1 contender to Old Glory. But in the end, I always knew it was gonna be you, Kaia. I never doubted you for a second. Biased? Sure. But if you know me, you know I always keep it a buck. Running it back against Helena woulda been something. Precious Pep woulda been a tough opponent. I'm sure even Jacob Daniels woulda provided his own challenge. But you, Kaia? You might just offer me the biggest challenge of anyone involved in that match.
Tj steps off the locker.
TJ Techniques: That's why I gotta go out there and establish things between you and I tonight. My title's not on the line, sure. I could tell Helena to F Off and leave her out there high and dry, which is something that homegirl in your corner would do. But I've never rolled like that and I never will. I don't take this as "just another match". When you hold this title, you hold a certain responsibility to go all out. When you're in the main event, you gotta ball out. And when you're standing across the ring from Kaia Granger, you must give it your very best.
TJ Techniques: Me and you are cool, Kaia. In a business filled with liars, manipulators, cheats and backstabbers, you're one of the very few I'd consider a friend. We've been opponents. We've been tag partners. We'll be opponents again tonight and beyond. From being in the ring with you to standing on that apron in awe, I know just how good you are. Which is why I gotta bring it here tonight. I can't have you going into this title match of ours with momentum. I can't have you going into that match with a W over my head. Which is why I need to establish things tonight. Now this is the part of the interview where I'd tell the ops to "Peep the Technique". But you know me, Kaia. You know how I get down. I'll see y'all out there...
BACKSTAGE
Helena Noir: “You think that what you did was smart, Pepper?”
Walking into view from the dark end of the hallway was Helena Noir. Not that she had ever been the happy-go-lucky kind of girl but tonight the former Liberty champion was in a particular foul mood.
Helena Noir: “Don’t get me wrong, I get why you did what you did. Why you took me out before the match, I really do. It’s just maths, really. Your chances to win in a four-way match would be 25%, they spike up to 33% if you take one opponent out of the equation.”
As Helena started walking forward, the camera stepped back keeping the distance unchanged.
Helena Noir: “You know, there was a time when I might have done the same.. Really, I can relate. And I get why, of the three options, you targeted me. You fear me.”
Her pace was slow but steady, and the cadence of her words matched it.
Helena Noir: “After all, in our past encounters things never really played in your favor, right? Sure, you can and probably will, brag about the win over me at Kings & Queens. But even there, you, the captain of your team, fell at my hands.”
A light chuckle escaped from her lips.
Helena Noir: “It’s also pretty ironic that the company you swore was better than Liberty, ran by the woman you described as smarter and better at her job than Jade Night collapsed like a house of cards. Who would have guessed?”
That smirk grew even wider now.
Helena Noir: “Right, I did. But I digress… The point his, I’ve been the one hurdle you could never get past. I was that on Liberation, I still am here on Freedom. You thought that taking me out would’ve helped your climb, you thought you could pave your way to the top with the blood you spilled with a cowardly attack from behind.”
Still walking toward the camera, Helena shook her head.
Helena Noir: “You were right, but you half-assed your job. I thought that you, the undisputed queen of cliché, would know one of the most overused quotes. If you come at the Queen, you best not miss, that’s the most popular version, you should be familiar with that one, at the very least. Even though I prefer the original, straight from The Prince. If an injury has to be done to a man it should be so severe that his vengeance need not be feared.
Helena stopped on her tracks, pausing her speech for a moment. In that second of silence, you could hear the roar of the fans. Noir had reached the gorilla position, the main event was only seconds away, only leaving her time for one last message to Precious Pepper Vain.
Helena Noir: “That’s where you fucked up, you didn’t take me out. You allowed me to come back that same night and ruin your plan. But don’t think for a second that was my vengeance, no. We are not to that part yet. But we will, and trust me.. You won’t like it.”
“Noir” by Shandon blasted through the PA system, and the crowd cheered in anticipation. This was it, no more time for talking. Helena stepped out of the curtain and headed to the ring for her tag match.
Helena Noir: “You think that what you did was smart, Pepper?”
Walking into view from the dark end of the hallway was Helena Noir. Not that she had ever been the happy-go-lucky kind of girl but tonight the former Liberty champion was in a particular foul mood.
Helena Noir: “Don’t get me wrong, I get why you did what you did. Why you took me out before the match, I really do. It’s just maths, really. Your chances to win in a four-way match would be 25%, they spike up to 33% if you take one opponent out of the equation.”
As Helena started walking forward, the camera stepped back keeping the distance unchanged.
Helena Noir: “You know, there was a time when I might have done the same.. Really, I can relate. And I get why, of the three options, you targeted me. You fear me.”
Her pace was slow but steady, and the cadence of her words matched it.
Helena Noir: “After all, in our past encounters things never really played in your favor, right? Sure, you can and probably will, brag about the win over me at Kings & Queens. But even there, you, the captain of your team, fell at my hands.”
A light chuckle escaped from her lips.
Helena Noir: “It’s also pretty ironic that the company you swore was better than Liberty, ran by the woman you described as smarter and better at her job than Jade Night collapsed like a house of cards. Who would have guessed?”
That smirk grew even wider now.
Helena Noir: “Right, I did. But I digress… The point his, I’ve been the one hurdle you could never get past. I was that on Liberation, I still am here on Freedom. You thought that taking me out would’ve helped your climb, you thought you could pave your way to the top with the blood you spilled with a cowardly attack from behind.”
Still walking toward the camera, Helena shook her head.
Helena Noir: “You were right, but you half-assed your job. I thought that you, the undisputed queen of cliché, would know one of the most overused quotes. If you come at the Queen, you best not miss, that’s the most popular version, you should be familiar with that one, at the very least. Even though I prefer the original, straight from The Prince. If an injury has to be done to a man it should be so severe that his vengeance need not be feared.
Helena stopped on her tracks, pausing her speech for a moment. In that second of silence, you could hear the roar of the fans. Noir had reached the gorilla position, the main event was only seconds away, only leaving her time for one last message to Precious Pepper Vain.
Helena Noir: “That’s where you fucked up, you didn’t take me out. You allowed me to come back that same night and ruin your plan. But don’t think for a second that was my vengeance, no. We are not to that part yet. But we will, and trust me.. You won’t like it.”
“Noir” by Shandon blasted through the PA system, and the crowd cheered in anticipation. This was it, no more time for talking. Helena stepped out of the curtain and headed to the ring for her tag match.
MAIN EVENT: TAG
Kaia Grainger & Precious Pepper Vain vs TJ Techniques & Helena Noir
Kaia Grainger & Precious Pepper Vain vs TJ Techniques & Helena Noir
RECAP PPV and TJ start off the match and at the sound of the bell, they two lock up in the middle of the ring, with TJ gaining the advantage with a quick knee strike before taking PPV down with a belly to belly suplex. TJ keeps the pressure on with a knee to the neck of PPV before going for a quick cover that only manages a one count. TJ tags in Helena who keeps the attack going with several hard stomps to the downed PPV. Helena pulls her back to her feet before dropping PPV back down with a swinging neckbreaker. Helena goes for an arm bar rather than the pin and tries to yank PPVs arm out of her socket. Kaia tries to enter the ring and it distracts the official enough that PPV is able to rake the eyes of Helena and break free. She takes in Kaia who kicks the blinded Helena in the face and starts to stomp away on her. She then taunts TJ to get in the ring and while TJ is stopped by the referee, PPV gets in the ring and the two friends double suplex Helena and both put the boots to her. As the official turns around PPV gets out of the ring again. Kaia locks in a rear chinlock to try to keep Helena down but she is able to power back and make the hot tag to TJ who clears the ring of both of Kaia and Helena. After a bit of arguing and a referee count of seven, all four competitors are in the ring and brawling. The official tries to regain control but is having trouble. Helena seems to be in control of PPV when Kaia pushes TJ into Helena and the two bump heads, staggering them both. PPV is able to push Helena from the ring after the run in. Kaia then nails TJ with Star Shine- Handspring Cutter and she gets the HUGE pin on the Freedom Champion, giving a big win the Kaia Grainger and PPV. WINNER Kaia Grainger & PPV METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 13:10 FINISHING MOVE Star Shine |