Post by Jade Night on Jan 18, 2022 7:42:38 GMT
Liberty Pro Presents...
Episode Twelve of Freedom
Live from the Matthews Arena in Boston, MA
On Monday, January 17th, 2022
Episode Twelve of Freedom
Live from the Matthews Arena in Boston, MA
On Monday, January 17th, 2022
MATCH ONE: SINGLES
Cait Flanagan vs Dex Morant
Cait Flanagan vs Dex Morant
RECAP Cait was confident as this match began and we would find out why in the early goings. Dex tried to jump out early on Cait, but The Million Dollar Baby had him scouted and one counter and forearm smash later and the match was in her favor. Dex was outmatched as he tried to overpower Cait, but the young woman would do whatever it took to achieve victory, including bending the rules with a thumb to her opponent's eye. The referee gave her a warning, but she told him to shut up if he wanted to keep his job. Dex finally found some offense as he slowed Cait down with a suplex. Here is where his downfall began however as he got a little too confident. He took to the top turnbuckle but was crotched as Cait rushed over and knocked his legs. From there she simply grabs the back of his neck and pulls him back into the ring. The referee again warns Cait about her dirty tactics, but she says she did nothing wrong, she's allowed to do whatever she wants as a matter of fact. While the referee rolled his eyes, technically she was in the right this time, there was no rule broken here. Dex was feeling the effects of the beatdown he sustained and it was about to get worse. While he tried to create some space by blocking a suplex attempt, he was rocked by yet another forearm from the fiery Cait. This one really did a number on Morant who stumbled backwards only to be grabbed by Flanagan. She kicked him in the stomach and hooked both arms while grinning and taunting the crowd. Moments later, she delivered a devastating Irish Goodbye and that was all she wrote. With the leg hooked, Cait secures a dominant victory. WINNER Cait Flanagan METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 6:54 FINISHING MOVE Irish Goodbye |
BACKSTAGE
Caroline Dallins: You seem a little mad about this match.
The camera backstage is focused on Caroline Dallins, tonight wearing a tweed sports coat and matching slacks. Her hands cross over her front as she watches the reigning KONY champion lace up his ring boots. Sparrow raises his head briefly, sneering at her quietly before putting at his nose. Then he goes back to lacing. Tonight’s ring gear is inspired by the video game Destiny, with the Warlock eagle symbol spray-painted in red with a stylized drip. Caroline lets out a huff before rolling her eyes.
Caroline Dallins: Silent treatment eh? Okay. Let’s try something new here. You...Respect TJ right? Our illustrious Freedom champion, The Funky Technician, The Meaning of Dope. You. Him. Friends, partners as they does say in Trinidad, comrades-in-ring.
Sparrow: I...Do, yes?
Caroline Dallins: You recognize, just how good he is right?
Sparrow looks as though he doesn’t know where this conversation is going.
Sparrow: Yes...Unless you gon’ try and convince Lily to put him in handicap matches next.
Caroline Dallins: Well I couldn’t do that as I don’t manage his career, now do I?
Sparrow didn’t respond to that, just going back to lacing his boots. Just so we’re clear, it never took him this long. Something about Caroline’s very presence seems to make him so uneasy that even tying his shoes takes forever The West Indian Whirlwind’s eyes flicked up at her briefly, as if asking to get on with the point.
Caroline Dallins: Fine, fine. Listen Baby Bird. Here in Liberty Pro? On the Freedom brand, you may be king, but Teej is a Deity. Until further notice, on the Liberty brand that notoriety belongs to Derrick La’Bell. Now you’re good, sure, but when it comes to this company? Talking about the likes of the boy Techniques, La’Bell, Layton, Lockhart, Reeves, Cerrano... If you don’t my saying, your arms are too short to box with Go--
Sparrow: I get it. Thanks.
Caroline Dallins: Well I mean really, I guess your legs are too short. You’re not really an arm guy are you? No, little brother, that isn’t you. So we have to get you on a grind. We have to put you in the most competitive situations possible, in as many unenviable positions as possible. If that means I have to hand off a chair to a very handsome Anarchy champion just to give you some more struggle, so be it? If I have to go to Lily’s office and convince her that she should pretend you’re Nate Callaghan just so she can throw the most mind-bogglingly horrible tortures in the form of matches at you? So be it. Because you will be great, Baby Bird. You will be greater than anyone can imagine. We just have to pull it out of you.
The King of New York Champion looks at the championship folded right next to him before glancing back at her. He lets out a huff.
Sparrow: Pulling it out of me has The Pride laying into me? Pulling it out of me includes Jacob and Chase take turns crackin’ m’jaw? Not so much I would suspect but I’ll do what I do regardless. You can make it sound like you doin’ me some kinda such favor as all get on...But I don’t believe you.
Caroline Dallins: Then why keep me around? You could fire me any time you feel like. Say the word and I’m gone. Just like that. It doesn’t take anything more than two words for me to depart from you amicably, Baby Bird. So say it. Go ahead. Two words. Say it.
The West Indian Whirlwind slowly stands up and gets nose-to-nose with his manager. There’s a small, shit-eating grin on the face of the grizzled veteran. A whole lot of I-know-something kind of smirk. She keeps mouthing, ‘go ahead, say it’ and ‘two words’ over and over again. Sparrow finally says two words.
Sparrow: Let’s go.
He does an about-face and walks out of the shot. The entire time, Caroline’s grin only grows wider. She reaches down on the bench for the KONY championship and picks it up, holding onto it for her client.
Caroline Dallins: You seem a little mad about this match.
The camera backstage is focused on Caroline Dallins, tonight wearing a tweed sports coat and matching slacks. Her hands cross over her front as she watches the reigning KONY champion lace up his ring boots. Sparrow raises his head briefly, sneering at her quietly before putting at his nose. Then he goes back to lacing. Tonight’s ring gear is inspired by the video game Destiny, with the Warlock eagle symbol spray-painted in red with a stylized drip. Caroline lets out a huff before rolling her eyes.
Caroline Dallins: Silent treatment eh? Okay. Let’s try something new here. You...Respect TJ right? Our illustrious Freedom champion, The Funky Technician, The Meaning of Dope. You. Him. Friends, partners as they does say in Trinidad, comrades-in-ring.
Sparrow: I...Do, yes?
Caroline Dallins: You recognize, just how good he is right?
Sparrow looks as though he doesn’t know where this conversation is going.
Sparrow: Yes...Unless you gon’ try and convince Lily to put him in handicap matches next.
Caroline Dallins: Well I couldn’t do that as I don’t manage his career, now do I?
Sparrow didn’t respond to that, just going back to lacing his boots. Just so we’re clear, it never took him this long. Something about Caroline’s very presence seems to make him so uneasy that even tying his shoes takes forever The West Indian Whirlwind’s eyes flicked up at her briefly, as if asking to get on with the point.
Caroline Dallins: Fine, fine. Listen Baby Bird. Here in Liberty Pro? On the Freedom brand, you may be king, but Teej is a Deity. Until further notice, on the Liberty brand that notoriety belongs to Derrick La’Bell. Now you’re good, sure, but when it comes to this company? Talking about the likes of the boy Techniques, La’Bell, Layton, Lockhart, Reeves, Cerrano... If you don’t my saying, your arms are too short to box with Go--
Sparrow: I get it. Thanks.
Caroline Dallins: Well I mean really, I guess your legs are too short. You’re not really an arm guy are you? No, little brother, that isn’t you. So we have to get you on a grind. We have to put you in the most competitive situations possible, in as many unenviable positions as possible. If that means I have to hand off a chair to a very handsome Anarchy champion just to give you some more struggle, so be it? If I have to go to Lily’s office and convince her that she should pretend you’re Nate Callaghan just so she can throw the most mind-bogglingly horrible tortures in the form of matches at you? So be it. Because you will be great, Baby Bird. You will be greater than anyone can imagine. We just have to pull it out of you.
The King of New York Champion looks at the championship folded right next to him before glancing back at her. He lets out a huff.
Sparrow: Pulling it out of me has The Pride laying into me? Pulling it out of me includes Jacob and Chase take turns crackin’ m’jaw? Not so much I would suspect but I’ll do what I do regardless. You can make it sound like you doin’ me some kinda such favor as all get on...But I don’t believe you.
Caroline Dallins: Then why keep me around? You could fire me any time you feel like. Say the word and I’m gone. Just like that. It doesn’t take anything more than two words for me to depart from you amicably, Baby Bird. So say it. Go ahead. Two words. Say it.
The West Indian Whirlwind slowly stands up and gets nose-to-nose with his manager. There’s a small, shit-eating grin on the face of the grizzled veteran. A whole lot of I-know-something kind of smirk. She keeps mouthing, ‘go ahead, say it’ and ‘two words’ over and over again. Sparrow finally says two words.
Sparrow: Let’s go.
He does an about-face and walks out of the shot. The entire time, Caroline’s grin only grows wider. She reaches down on the bench for the KONY championship and picks it up, holding onto it for her client.
MATCH TWO: MATCH TWO: HANDICAP FOR THE KONY CHAMPIONSHIP
Sparrow vs The Pride
Sparrow vs The Pride
RECAP With this handicap match having harcore rules thanks to the KONY Championship, Sparrow knew that he had to get a jump on this one. As Chase and JD waited for him to come to the ring, Sparrow decided to come from the crowd and he laid into both of them from behind with a chair. This gave him an advantage to the start of the match as the referee rang the bell. Sparrow took out JD with a flying knee before giving Chase the same treatment. Chase got up to his knees and the KONY Champ hit him with a running DDT. He pinned but JD broke it up. This gave The Pride the chance to take control of the match. They had Sparrow cornered, taking turns as they punched and kicked him. They then hit him with a double powerbomb and JD pinned him but Sparrow kicked out. The two men continued to lay it on the champion as Caroline shook her head from ringside, yelling at Sparrow and telling him he can do better. For a few minutes, Sparrow continued to take a beating. All of that changed though when JD went for a Superman punch on the dazed Sparrow but the small competitor found the willpower to move out of the way. JD smashed his fist into Chase! Sparrow grabbed the KONY Championship and leveled JD in the face with it, sending him over the ropes. Chase, who was on his knees, got a face full of the KONY Championship as well. Sparrow wasted no time and he pinned Hunter. One… Two… THREE!!! DING DING DING!!!! Sparrow was announced the winner and retained his championship. Caroline looked pleased as she entered the ring and placed the championship on Sparrow’s shoulder. He looked at her with an uneasy look before raising his hand in the air with the fans cheering him on. WINNER Sparrow METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 9:10 FINISHING MOVE Championship shot to face |
BACKSTAGE
Coral: You know, there’s nothing wrong with being confident. Knowing what you’re good at. Like sitting up on your board on the ocean at sunrise, waiting for that perfect wave and then just knowing you’re going to crush the ride in to shore. Perfect.
Sitting next to each other backstage waiting for their match, the twin Girls of Summer are dressed in their identical gold and blue gear, gleaming and sparkling under the lights.
Nami: Not gonna front, because that would be… RUDE…
Coral: Hella heckin rude really…
Nami: But it was refreshing A… F… to be facing this brand new team. On the one hand you got this bright eyed new dude, Ricky Rodriguez and man, he just screams ‘I wanna do good!’ and that’s alright alright. Then he’s teaming up with Carli Davis, Mini-Carli Monday Carli Davis, who’s a big champ over in Valiant. They… on paper… should do real well, isn’t like either of them is going to stab the other in the back.
The pair raise a hand each and wave their fingers towards the camera.
Coral: But not on paper is the fact that we are the best tag team in Liberty history, bar none. Multi-time champions with unbeatable chemistry, skills, and drive. But we’re also going to give credit where it’s due and say, thank you to both Carli and Ricky…
Nami: Thank you both, sincerely, from the bottom of our little wicked hearts for not being stupid! For not spewing out the same exact garbage we hear from every tag team that rolls into Liberty to try and take WHAT’S OURS and then vanish like SBD’s after some sketchy lunch truck Mexican food when they ultimately and always FAIL.
Coral: You have no idea how nice it was to not have our hard work ignored, to not be told that we must have slept our way into our titles, to not hear the same ignorant trash from the same cookie cutter LDE dickheads I swear to CHRIST…
Nami: Coral.
Coral: I mean talk about SCRUBS, the worst shallow water paddling…
Nami: Coral.
Coral: I mean SCREW THOSE JERKS…
Nami: CORAL!
Coral blinks, looking over at her twin.
Coral: Sorry, I got carried away. Ahem.
Nami: So anyway, thanks, we’re still gonna do our best to put you down but at least you dudes will know that we’re coming out there from a position of respect. That’s …almost a first, so congratulations and understand this. Liberty is back! The Girls of Summer are back! So it’s just a matter of time before Endless Summer begins again.
The pair slap hands as the camera cuts away.
Coral: You know, there’s nothing wrong with being confident. Knowing what you’re good at. Like sitting up on your board on the ocean at sunrise, waiting for that perfect wave and then just knowing you’re going to crush the ride in to shore. Perfect.
Sitting next to each other backstage waiting for their match, the twin Girls of Summer are dressed in their identical gold and blue gear, gleaming and sparkling under the lights.
Nami: Not gonna front, because that would be… RUDE…
Coral: Hella heckin rude really…
Nami: But it was refreshing A… F… to be facing this brand new team. On the one hand you got this bright eyed new dude, Ricky Rodriguez and man, he just screams ‘I wanna do good!’ and that’s alright alright. Then he’s teaming up with Carli Davis, Mini-Carli Monday Carli Davis, who’s a big champ over in Valiant. They… on paper… should do real well, isn’t like either of them is going to stab the other in the back.
The pair raise a hand each and wave their fingers towards the camera.
Coral: But not on paper is the fact that we are the best tag team in Liberty history, bar none. Multi-time champions with unbeatable chemistry, skills, and drive. But we’re also going to give credit where it’s due and say, thank you to both Carli and Ricky…
Nami: Thank you both, sincerely, from the bottom of our little wicked hearts for not being stupid! For not spewing out the same exact garbage we hear from every tag team that rolls into Liberty to try and take WHAT’S OURS and then vanish like SBD’s after some sketchy lunch truck Mexican food when they ultimately and always FAIL.
Coral: You have no idea how nice it was to not have our hard work ignored, to not be told that we must have slept our way into our titles, to not hear the same ignorant trash from the same cookie cutter LDE dickheads I swear to CHRIST…
Nami: Coral.
Coral: I mean talk about SCRUBS, the worst shallow water paddling…
Nami: Coral.
Coral: I mean SCREW THOSE JERKS…
Nami: CORAL!
Coral blinks, looking over at her twin.
Coral: Sorry, I got carried away. Ahem.
Nami: So anyway, thanks, we’re still gonna do our best to put you down but at least you dudes will know that we’re coming out there from a position of respect. That’s …almost a first, so congratulations and understand this. Liberty is back! The Girls of Summer are back! So it’s just a matter of time before Endless Summer begins again.
The pair slap hands as the camera cuts away.
BACKSTAGE
CARLI DAVIS: Happy Mini Carli Monday! Freedom is back and they couldn't have picked a better day of the week for the show! That brings a whole brand new type of hype to the show. But with that, brings a lot of pressure, because now I definitely can't let you guys down! Not on the best day of the week.
She giggles with a shrug.
CARLI DAVIS: Though, I am very said that I'm no longer on the same show with Ant and Avery. But surely we will still get the chance to work together in the future! I'll still be rooting for them.
A wide smile comes across her face as she nods.
CARLI DAVIS: On a more serious note, tonight I get the opportunity to team alongside Ricky, who was one of the two men I had a hard fought match with last week. Which didn't go in our favor, but tonight we get to redeem that loss as we step into the ring with Girls of Summer. The tag team champions. So they definitely do have the upper hand in this match, but have no fear, I've been in a fair share of tag team matches myself. Though I can say I never had the chance to hold tag gold. Perhaps I'll have to find myself a partner in the near future and go for them. Anyway, as I said, I'm no stranger to tag team matches and I plan on bringing every ounce of knowledge I have on it with me tonight and sharing it with Ricky.
She clicks her tongue against the roof of her mouth, placing her hands on her shoulder.
CARLI DAVIS: Something tells me, that we are going to have to keep a very close eye on Coral and Nami. Twins, in a tag match? I have a feeling they won't be afraid to use a little switcharoo if they can get away with it. I'm half tempted to bring a sharpie with me and mark twin one and twin two on them so we know if they try anything funny! It's not gonna happen on my watch. Nuh uh!
She shakes her finger at the camera with a laugh.
CARLI DAVIS: Ricky and I may not have team history together, but we got a taste of what each other has and I think we can put that all together and it will all be smooth as butter. We both have a loss to make up for and there is no way either of us what to end another week with another stike in the L column. I know I don't. I may have been out of action for a couple of weeks, but I shook off that dust last week and it's time to get serious! This Mini Carli Monday is gonna end on a positive note!
CARLI DAVIS: Happy Mini Carli Monday! Freedom is back and they couldn't have picked a better day of the week for the show! That brings a whole brand new type of hype to the show. But with that, brings a lot of pressure, because now I definitely can't let you guys down! Not on the best day of the week.
She giggles with a shrug.
CARLI DAVIS: Though, I am very said that I'm no longer on the same show with Ant and Avery. But surely we will still get the chance to work together in the future! I'll still be rooting for them.
A wide smile comes across her face as she nods.
CARLI DAVIS: On a more serious note, tonight I get the opportunity to team alongside Ricky, who was one of the two men I had a hard fought match with last week. Which didn't go in our favor, but tonight we get to redeem that loss as we step into the ring with Girls of Summer. The tag team champions. So they definitely do have the upper hand in this match, but have no fear, I've been in a fair share of tag team matches myself. Though I can say I never had the chance to hold tag gold. Perhaps I'll have to find myself a partner in the near future and go for them. Anyway, as I said, I'm no stranger to tag team matches and I plan on bringing every ounce of knowledge I have on it with me tonight and sharing it with Ricky.
She clicks her tongue against the roof of her mouth, placing her hands on her shoulder.
CARLI DAVIS: Something tells me, that we are going to have to keep a very close eye on Coral and Nami. Twins, in a tag match? I have a feeling they won't be afraid to use a little switcharoo if they can get away with it. I'm half tempted to bring a sharpie with me and mark twin one and twin two on them so we know if they try anything funny! It's not gonna happen on my watch. Nuh uh!
She shakes her finger at the camera with a laugh.
CARLI DAVIS: Ricky and I may not have team history together, but we got a taste of what each other has and I think we can put that all together and it will all be smooth as butter. We both have a loss to make up for and there is no way either of us what to end another week with another stike in the L column. I know I don't. I may have been out of action for a couple of weeks, but I shook off that dust last week and it's time to get serious! This Mini Carli Monday is gonna end on a positive note!
MATCH THREE: TAG
Ricky Rodriguez & Carli Davis vs Girls of Summer
Ricky Rodriguez & Carli Davis vs Girls of Summer
RECAP The franchise of the tag division in Liberty was clearly the Girls of Summer, Nami and Coral and they showed why early on as they utilized quick tags and referee distractions to keep Ricky Rodriguez isolated and away from his partner. Ricky refused to quit, but as he tried to make a tag, he was cut off by the illegal member of the Girls, Coral. She stomped his back and dragged him back to his corner as a tag was never made but she entered the ring anyway when Carli pointed out to the referee that they were cheating. This just gave them extra time to double team Ricky, who was nearly pinned on two separate occasions here. Ricky manages to fight back, using his explosive offense style to hit a double dropkick counter as both girls tried to toss him up into the air, illegally again of course. Ricky crawls for a tag...he was about to get it...but no! Both girls grab a foot each and drag him back to the center of the ring. Carli had seen enough! She enters the ring and charges at them, but the referee hurries over and grabs her around the waist and tells her to get back on the apron or he would disqualify them. This upsets the fans, who are very pro Ricky and Carli, but it gives the Girls another chance to inflict damage on the young Rodriguez as they hit a double ddt. Nami goes for a pin but Ricky kicks out. The girls were shocked and Nami remains in the ring and lifts Ricky up and goes for another ddt, but he counters with a northern lights suplex! The fans were going crazy now as he was crawling towards Carli. He was going to make the tag....he leaps and YES! A tag is made! Nami was trying to make a tag of her own, but Carli was in the ring like a house of fire. She runs over and knocks Coral off the apron. Coral gets back to her feet and hops back on the apron as THE SOCIALITES emerge from the backstage area. The women approach ringside and begin to taunt Coral who turns her attention to them before being dropkicked of the apron and right onto the Socialites! Davis drops Nami in the ring and then connects with a BEAUTIFUL 702! She's going to win the match, but wait...RICKY RODRIGUEZ is in the ring! He grabs Carli by her hair and her tights and tosses her out of the ring as the referee was distracted by the Socialites appearance. Despite not being the legal participant, Ricky then covers Nami and the referee drops down and makes the three count, bringing an end to this chaotic match. WINNER Carli Davis & Ricky Rodriguez METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 15:10 FINISHING MOVE 702 |
BACKSTAGE
Freedom continues as the show fades backstage. The cameras catch current Freedom champion TJ Techniques in mid conversation with one of the backstage assistants.
TJ Techniques: ... that was crazy, right? And then the homie's dead wife just pops up outta nowhere with control of half the damn company! That was some shit right outta The Young & The Restless or somethin!
The two men share a laugh until TJ turns to his left and sees the camera. He then turns back to the assistant and nods his head towards the camera.
TJ Techniques: Ayo, let me handle this real quick.
The two men dap each other up before TJ walks over towards the camera to address the audience.
TJ Techniques: We on, right?
Cameraman: Yessir.
TJ Techniques: Good. Derrick La'Bell.
TJ gives a loud clap before continuing.
TJ Techniques: My man. Hear me and hear me good. Now I know that you're still bitter and tight over what happened last week. If the shoe was on the other food, I'd be feelin some type of way, too. I won't hold that against you. But this beef that you have? This anger that you have? All that negative energy? You need to take that elsewhere because it's directed at the wrong man. I meant every word I said to you prior to our match. I respect you. I respect your hustle. I respect your grind. I respect your ability to excel in multiple sports. Notice I said respect. As in present tense. As in despite your little temper tantrum, I still respect you. However, you keep this up D? That respect will go right out the window. If you truly knew me, you would know that cheatin to get a win isn't how I get down. I just had a so-called partner elsewhere turn on me and sideline me for months because I wasn't down with his cheatin and schemin. So why in the world would you think I'd be down for doin you dirty like that? Hmm? I got something for you, though. How about you get up out your feelings and get with the facts. I didn't need anybody's else to beat you. If you think otherwise? Then we can shoot the fair one any time, anywhere, and see what's really good.
TJ spreads his arms out, letting Derrick know that whenever he wants it, he can get it.
TJ Techniques: Now, Lily Callaghan. Or is that Ms. Callaghan? Boss Lady? Not really sure what I should be calling you. But aye man, check this out. Whatever beef you and Nate got? Do me a favor. As a matter of fact, do all of Liberty a favor and handle that on your own time. We are not your puppets. We are not tools for you to use in your war against your ex hubby. Now I get it. You wanted to stick it to Nate. You wanted to make a big splash. "Let Freedom ring" yah yah yah whatever. But don't do it in the middle of my matches, got it? Save your beef with Nate for Maury or the Steve Wilkos Show.
TJ repeatedly thumbs behind him, motioning for Lily to get that weak shit out of here.
TJ Techniques: Of course, Lily Callaghan wasn't the only resurrection we saw at Liberation. Nah, we also saw the return on the infamous Blyss Lockhart. Now, no one was ever under the assumption that Blyss was dead. Nah. But her career sure was as dead as a doornail, wasn't it? And now she wants to ride in here to Liberty to write the next chapter of her career. Look, I dunno what you and Lily got goin on. But I do know this. I didn't want your help. I didn't need your help. So how about you stay out of my business? You got eyes on the champ? I don't blame you. But I do blame you for ruining what could have been between myself and Derrick. Do yourself a favor. Watch yourself.
TJ stares directly into the camera as he lets that last line linger.
TJ Techniques: Enough about them. Let's talk about tonight's business. With who? Hilary Levandrier. Now Hildog, she's got potential. She's got the name behind her. She's got that spark, that energy. But there's no freebies for you tonight. Nah, not only are you being thrown right to the wolves, you're being thrown to the leader of the pack. Hilary, I'm not gonna come out here and dog you out. You won't see me up here sayin that you don't have a chance in hell of winnin. That's not what I do. I know what this opportunity means. A chance like this doesn't come along very often. You only get one chance to make a first impression and you've got the opportunity of a lifetime right here tonight. This Freedom Championship right here? It's not on the line but for you, it mind as well be. A win over me tonight puts all eyes on you. A win over me gets you all the respect in the world. This is your opportunity. This is your moment. Will you seize it? Will you take it? Me? I know I'll be ready. But will you? That's something that you and only you can answer. Know this, though. I won't take it easy on you. I won't give you any breaks in there. I'm gonna make you work for every inch of offense. When it's all said and done? You may not get your hand raised. You may not hear your name announced as the winner. But after this match, you will leave a better wrestler after stepping in the ring with The Meaning of Dope. See you out there...
Freedom continues as the show fades backstage. The cameras catch current Freedom champion TJ Techniques in mid conversation with one of the backstage assistants.
TJ Techniques: ... that was crazy, right? And then the homie's dead wife just pops up outta nowhere with control of half the damn company! That was some shit right outta The Young & The Restless or somethin!
The two men share a laugh until TJ turns to his left and sees the camera. He then turns back to the assistant and nods his head towards the camera.
TJ Techniques: Ayo, let me handle this real quick.
The two men dap each other up before TJ walks over towards the camera to address the audience.
TJ Techniques: We on, right?
Cameraman: Yessir.
TJ Techniques: Good. Derrick La'Bell.
TJ gives a loud clap before continuing.
TJ Techniques: My man. Hear me and hear me good. Now I know that you're still bitter and tight over what happened last week. If the shoe was on the other food, I'd be feelin some type of way, too. I won't hold that against you. But this beef that you have? This anger that you have? All that negative energy? You need to take that elsewhere because it's directed at the wrong man. I meant every word I said to you prior to our match. I respect you. I respect your hustle. I respect your grind. I respect your ability to excel in multiple sports. Notice I said respect. As in present tense. As in despite your little temper tantrum, I still respect you. However, you keep this up D? That respect will go right out the window. If you truly knew me, you would know that cheatin to get a win isn't how I get down. I just had a so-called partner elsewhere turn on me and sideline me for months because I wasn't down with his cheatin and schemin. So why in the world would you think I'd be down for doin you dirty like that? Hmm? I got something for you, though. How about you get up out your feelings and get with the facts. I didn't need anybody's else to beat you. If you think otherwise? Then we can shoot the fair one any time, anywhere, and see what's really good.
TJ spreads his arms out, letting Derrick know that whenever he wants it, he can get it.
TJ Techniques: Now, Lily Callaghan. Or is that Ms. Callaghan? Boss Lady? Not really sure what I should be calling you. But aye man, check this out. Whatever beef you and Nate got? Do me a favor. As a matter of fact, do all of Liberty a favor and handle that on your own time. We are not your puppets. We are not tools for you to use in your war against your ex hubby. Now I get it. You wanted to stick it to Nate. You wanted to make a big splash. "Let Freedom ring" yah yah yah whatever. But don't do it in the middle of my matches, got it? Save your beef with Nate for Maury or the Steve Wilkos Show.
TJ repeatedly thumbs behind him, motioning for Lily to get that weak shit out of here.
TJ Techniques: Of course, Lily Callaghan wasn't the only resurrection we saw at Liberation. Nah, we also saw the return on the infamous Blyss Lockhart. Now, no one was ever under the assumption that Blyss was dead. Nah. But her career sure was as dead as a doornail, wasn't it? And now she wants to ride in here to Liberty to write the next chapter of her career. Look, I dunno what you and Lily got goin on. But I do know this. I didn't want your help. I didn't need your help. So how about you stay out of my business? You got eyes on the champ? I don't blame you. But I do blame you for ruining what could have been between myself and Derrick. Do yourself a favor. Watch yourself.
TJ stares directly into the camera as he lets that last line linger.
TJ Techniques: Enough about them. Let's talk about tonight's business. With who? Hilary Levandrier. Now Hildog, she's got potential. She's got the name behind her. She's got that spark, that energy. But there's no freebies for you tonight. Nah, not only are you being thrown right to the wolves, you're being thrown to the leader of the pack. Hilary, I'm not gonna come out here and dog you out. You won't see me up here sayin that you don't have a chance in hell of winnin. That's not what I do. I know what this opportunity means. A chance like this doesn't come along very often. You only get one chance to make a first impression and you've got the opportunity of a lifetime right here tonight. This Freedom Championship right here? It's not on the line but for you, it mind as well be. A win over me tonight puts all eyes on you. A win over me gets you all the respect in the world. This is your opportunity. This is your moment. Will you seize it? Will you take it? Me? I know I'll be ready. But will you? That's something that you and only you can answer. Know this, though. I won't take it easy on you. I won't give you any breaks in there. I'm gonna make you work for every inch of offense. When it's all said and done? You may not get your hand raised. You may not hear your name announced as the winner. But after this match, you will leave a better wrestler after stepping in the ring with The Meaning of Dope. See you out there...
BACKSTAGE
The camera opens up backstage where we see Rayven Hardy. The familiar face might be new Liberty, but she was known worldwide and from one of the most famous wrestling families in the world: The Hardy family.
Rayven Hardy: Wow. This is surreal to say the least. Even being in a wrestling arena, it gives me goosebumps. This is what I was born to do.
She pauses to take it all in. She looks towards a voice off camera, one wrestling fans will immediately recognize as Edward Cross. She nods and offers a smile and says 'I'm good babe'. She looks back into the camera after the interaction.
Rayven Hardy: The last time you guys saw me, I was in another company, and I can admit...I was in my head. I went from being the talk of the wrestling world, and one of the best in that particular company, to struggling to find myself. Loss after loss, personal issues, I had no idea who I was anymore, where I wanted to be, or why I was even doing it. Somewhere along the way, I forgot I was Rayven Hardy. Instead, I was just a wrestler. Just another. And I didn't know how crawl out of that hole. Then...my life changed. I got closer to the man who would ultimately become my husband, and the father to our beautiful baby boy, Phoenix. We bonded, and while I forgot who I was, he refused to allow me to continue to forget.
In November, I gave birth, and as soon as I could get back on my feet, I was back in the gym. Nightfall has been my home almost as much as my actual house, but don't worry...can I multi-task? Can I be the best mother possible and one of the best wrestlers in the world? That's a fair question, but tonight, I'm going to go out there and answer it. Because tonight, not only am I in the ring with a great wrestler, I'm in the ring with THREE amazing wrestlers. Emery, Marou, and Scotty.
I have some history with Marou. I know his style, he knows mine, I've beaten him before. But just as I have something to prove, so does he. He stepped away from the ring, and now he wants to come back and reclaim his stake as one of the meanest, smartest, and resourceful wrestlers in the game. I know he will do whatever it takes to win. Emery is someone I've never had the opportunity to wrestle but have always wanted to, and Scotty is a new parent just like I am. He's fighting for family, and to create a legacy that they can be proud of.
Me? My legacy is already cemented, but I'm not happy with JUST being another Hardy. I'm not just Robb's daughter, I'm RAYVEN. Tonight, only one of us can fly high...and I've always flown higher than the rest. Good luck."
Nodding, Rayven is handed an elbow pad from Edward as she begins to pull it up with the fans cheering in anticipation of her return to the ring later tonight in the main event.
The camera opens up backstage where we see Rayven Hardy. The familiar face might be new Liberty, but she was known worldwide and from one of the most famous wrestling families in the world: The Hardy family.
Rayven Hardy: Wow. This is surreal to say the least. Even being in a wrestling arena, it gives me goosebumps. This is what I was born to do.
She pauses to take it all in. She looks towards a voice off camera, one wrestling fans will immediately recognize as Edward Cross. She nods and offers a smile and says 'I'm good babe'. She looks back into the camera after the interaction.
Rayven Hardy: The last time you guys saw me, I was in another company, and I can admit...I was in my head. I went from being the talk of the wrestling world, and one of the best in that particular company, to struggling to find myself. Loss after loss, personal issues, I had no idea who I was anymore, where I wanted to be, or why I was even doing it. Somewhere along the way, I forgot I was Rayven Hardy. Instead, I was just a wrestler. Just another. And I didn't know how crawl out of that hole. Then...my life changed. I got closer to the man who would ultimately become my husband, and the father to our beautiful baby boy, Phoenix. We bonded, and while I forgot who I was, he refused to allow me to continue to forget.
In November, I gave birth, and as soon as I could get back on my feet, I was back in the gym. Nightfall has been my home almost as much as my actual house, but don't worry...can I multi-task? Can I be the best mother possible and one of the best wrestlers in the world? That's a fair question, but tonight, I'm going to go out there and answer it. Because tonight, not only am I in the ring with a great wrestler, I'm in the ring with THREE amazing wrestlers. Emery, Marou, and Scotty.
I have some history with Marou. I know his style, he knows mine, I've beaten him before. But just as I have something to prove, so does he. He stepped away from the ring, and now he wants to come back and reclaim his stake as one of the meanest, smartest, and resourceful wrestlers in the game. I know he will do whatever it takes to win. Emery is someone I've never had the opportunity to wrestle but have always wanted to, and Scotty is a new parent just like I am. He's fighting for family, and to create a legacy that they can be proud of.
Me? My legacy is already cemented, but I'm not happy with JUST being another Hardy. I'm not just Robb's daughter, I'm RAYVEN. Tonight, only one of us can fly high...and I've always flown higher than the rest. Good luck."
Nodding, Rayven is handed an elbow pad from Edward as she begins to pull it up with the fans cheering in anticipation of her return to the ring later tonight in the main event.
MATCH FOUR: SINGLES
TJ Techniques vs Hilary Lavandrier
TJ Techniques vs Hilary Lavandrier
RECAP This was a fun one from the start as newcomer Hilary Levandrier brought quite the crowd out. Even TJ was impressed by the turnout of wanna-be paparazzi members in the front row with their cameras out to get a few shots of the tabloid princess. When the bell rang, Hilary showed that she was much more than just a famed party girl, bringing the fight right to the champion. Levandrier struck first with an impressive bicycle kick that stumbled the champion but failed to take him off his feet. Hilary shows a fire early on, staying on TJ, bringing the fight to him with wild strikes that get the crowd going. Just as she found her groove, she made a rookie mistake and TJ capitalized on it by hitting a big time spinebuster that drove the air out of the rookie's body. TJ maintains control for the next few moments, pulling off a stalling suplex that wowed the crowd among many things, but everytime he went for a pin, Hilary would get a shoulder up at a two count. TJ wasn't shy in hiding his respect for the rookie by his facial expressions, but he wasn't going to take it easy on her either. Things looked to be heading in a bad direction for Hilary as TJ connected with an Asai Moonsault, but somehow once again Hilary got a shoulder up. The fans were cheering the resilience shown by the newcomer. TJ remains focused, not letting the fans, especially the ones in the front row get in his head. Thinking the match was his, he went to pull Hilary up but she went for a roll up and almost pulled it off! TJ kicked out but was then met by a running wizard kick to the side of his head. This one seemingly turns out his lights as his eyes cross and he flops to the mat. Instead of going for a pin, Hilary mounts his back and goes to apply a seated sleeper but Techniques flops around enough to shake her off. They both make it to their feet and she runs at him and leaps into the air. The pair fall back to the mat and she begins to throw punch after punch to his face before rising from him and letting out an excited scream. She was feeling herself and the fans were feeling her too! A jumping ddt was next and again, the rookie gets a VERY CLOSE two count but TJ just managed to kick out. Hilary was in shock and looked at the referee to plead her case as the fans began a 'KILLARY, KILLARY, KILLARY' chant. This was enough to light a fire in the champion who knew he was almost defeated. As Hilary turns around, she's met with a rising clothesline that turns her inside out and shocks the crowd. To her credit, Levandrier gets up as fast as she could but was then leveled with the SET 'EM STRAIGHT knee strike which knocks her for a loop. TJ hooks both legs and gets a three count after a fun back and forth contest. The fans were cheering for both champion and newcomer as the match was wrapped and TJ looked down at the resilient woman and offered her a hand up as she recovered. He pulls her to her feet and nods his head, showing her some respect before sliding out of the ring, leaving her to enjoy the adoration of the fans. WINNER TJ Techniques METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 18:45 FINISHING MOVE Set ‘Em Straight |
BACKSTAGE
Inside Lily Callaghan’s office are the lady boss herself and two of Freedom’s latest signees, Blyss Lockhart and Dante Locke. They appear to already be in mid-conversation and whatever the topic is, they seem to be in agreement.
Blyss Lockhart: Glad you approve of what I did at Liberation last week. Usually, I’d be at odds with management so this is a nice change for once.
Blyss grinned, relaxing even more in her seat. Lily smiled back and nodded.
Lily Callaghan: Well, I must admit, I was told by a mutual friend that you were someone that I could trust, as long as I showed the same trust towards you. As for what happened last week? You did exactly what I hoped you would do and helped make sure that Freedom was standing tall over Liberation.
Lily leaned forward over her desk and smirked.
Lily Callaghan: I know that what you showed at Liberation is just a small taste of what you're capable of, Ms. Lockhart. So, I am indeed happy to have you here.
Lily glanced over at Dante and smiled and nodded.
Lily Callaghan: That goes for you as well, Dante. I saw what you did in the Bad Omens over in In Your House. And you two together?
She clapped her hands.
Lily Callaghan: I know you’ll be unstoppable.
Blyss and Dante exchanged knowing smiles as they reached for each other’s hands in an affectionate hold.
Blyss Lockhart: And you are absolutely right, Lily. Like I told you the first time we met, I take my promises seriously. And what we promise to ensure that Freedom will be the better brand, we will deliver. This is where we thrive. As long as you put your trust in us, we will give you exactly what you want. Take down Liberation. And the next thing off the checklist? Defeat Brendan Samuels and Skylar Rayner.
She paused before scoffing.
Blyss Lockhart: Though I have to say, Lily, you’re probably pampering us a little here. Being a champion, Brendan would be fun to make a statement with, but don’t you think Skylar makes it uneven? I mean, what can she even bring to this match? Dante and I are a solid team and our style is merciless. You’ve seen it. Oh Lily, I hope you know what you’re letting Brendan and Skylar into. Maybe you should warn them.
She laughed as the more quiet Dante finally chimes in.
Dante Locke: You’re not wrong, Blyss. Samuels is legit but Skylar? What is she? The new Cass Baumer? Interviewer turned wrestler with very little training? What a joke! Poor Samuels is going to wish that he had his old tag partner, Jackie Fowler! But Blyss and I?
Locke smirked.
Dante Locke: We’re unstoppable together. We know each other in and out of the ring and anyone who dares step up against us? They’ll fall and they’ll fall hard.
Lily listened to both intently before nodding.
Lily Callaghan: That’s what I like to hear. And you know what? If you two win tonight, how about Blyss gets a shot at our super show for the US Championship? Does that sound good to you?
As if Blyss wasn’t already on cloud nine, her face broke out in a Cheshire grin.
Blyss Lockhart: Oh Lily Callaghan! You sure know the key to my heart! The amount of trust you have in us, it’s beautiful. But have a little more faith, it’s “when” we win tonight. Not “if”.
She gave Lily a wink, clearly pleased with how well their supposed partnership was going so far.
Blyss Lockhart: Looks like Brendan not only has to carry his team all by himself tonight, but also watch his back ‘cause I’m coming for that gold!
Lily stands up and reaches across the desk to shake both of their hands.
Lily Callaghan: I know you two won’t disappoint out there. Give ‘em hell and show the world why Freedom is the place to be.
Blyss Lockhart and Dante Locke: We will.
The two of them nodded before taking their leave of Lily’s office. As they headed for the locker room to get ready, Blyss couldn’t stop smiling.
Inside Lily Callaghan’s office are the lady boss herself and two of Freedom’s latest signees, Blyss Lockhart and Dante Locke. They appear to already be in mid-conversation and whatever the topic is, they seem to be in agreement.
Blyss Lockhart: Glad you approve of what I did at Liberation last week. Usually, I’d be at odds with management so this is a nice change for once.
Blyss grinned, relaxing even more in her seat. Lily smiled back and nodded.
Lily Callaghan: Well, I must admit, I was told by a mutual friend that you were someone that I could trust, as long as I showed the same trust towards you. As for what happened last week? You did exactly what I hoped you would do and helped make sure that Freedom was standing tall over Liberation.
Lily leaned forward over her desk and smirked.
Lily Callaghan: I know that what you showed at Liberation is just a small taste of what you're capable of, Ms. Lockhart. So, I am indeed happy to have you here.
Lily glanced over at Dante and smiled and nodded.
Lily Callaghan: That goes for you as well, Dante. I saw what you did in the Bad Omens over in In Your House. And you two together?
She clapped her hands.
Lily Callaghan: I know you’ll be unstoppable.
Blyss and Dante exchanged knowing smiles as they reached for each other’s hands in an affectionate hold.
Blyss Lockhart: And you are absolutely right, Lily. Like I told you the first time we met, I take my promises seriously. And what we promise to ensure that Freedom will be the better brand, we will deliver. This is where we thrive. As long as you put your trust in us, we will give you exactly what you want. Take down Liberation. And the next thing off the checklist? Defeat Brendan Samuels and Skylar Rayner.
She paused before scoffing.
Blyss Lockhart: Though I have to say, Lily, you’re probably pampering us a little here. Being a champion, Brendan would be fun to make a statement with, but don’t you think Skylar makes it uneven? I mean, what can she even bring to this match? Dante and I are a solid team and our style is merciless. You’ve seen it. Oh Lily, I hope you know what you’re letting Brendan and Skylar into. Maybe you should warn them.
She laughed as the more quiet Dante finally chimes in.
Dante Locke: You’re not wrong, Blyss. Samuels is legit but Skylar? What is she? The new Cass Baumer? Interviewer turned wrestler with very little training? What a joke! Poor Samuels is going to wish that he had his old tag partner, Jackie Fowler! But Blyss and I?
Locke smirked.
Dante Locke: We’re unstoppable together. We know each other in and out of the ring and anyone who dares step up against us? They’ll fall and they’ll fall hard.
Lily listened to both intently before nodding.
Lily Callaghan: That’s what I like to hear. And you know what? If you two win tonight, how about Blyss gets a shot at our super show for the US Championship? Does that sound good to you?
As if Blyss wasn’t already on cloud nine, her face broke out in a Cheshire grin.
Blyss Lockhart: Oh Lily Callaghan! You sure know the key to my heart! The amount of trust you have in us, it’s beautiful. But have a little more faith, it’s “when” we win tonight. Not “if”.
She gave Lily a wink, clearly pleased with how well their supposed partnership was going so far.
Blyss Lockhart: Looks like Brendan not only has to carry his team all by himself tonight, but also watch his back ‘cause I’m coming for that gold!
Lily stands up and reaches across the desk to shake both of their hands.
Lily Callaghan: I know you two won’t disappoint out there. Give ‘em hell and show the world why Freedom is the place to be.
Blyss Lockhart and Dante Locke: We will.
The two of them nodded before taking their leave of Lily’s office. As they headed for the locker room to get ready, Blyss couldn’t stop smiling.
BACKSTAGE
SKYLAR RAYNER: Well, can’t say my debut in Liberty was one to remember…
The former Underground backstage interviewer walked into frame, still dressed in her regular clothes. A pair of blue jeans, a gray hoodie and that omnipresent smile still printed on her face. She ran a hand through her long blonde hair, looking into the camera.
SKYLAR RAYNER: Not gonna lie, I was hoping to have a better start. I can’t shake this feeling that I could, and should, have done better. And that’s not me taking anything away from Antoinette and NV, two incredible competitors.. But see, last time I checked, I was headlining Underground PPV. I shared the ring with some of the best in this business, I took on people like Gavin Grimes, Riley Savell, Mallory Bennett, BROOKFORD…
A sigh escaped her lips, clearly she was missing the good ole days.
SKYLAR RAYNER: Then again, “last time” was one year ago and I haven’t pretty much stepped foot in the ring since then. My former manager Taylor is still mad at me for taking this, in his words, unnecessarily long break.
The Dane let out a soft chuckle.
SKYLAR RAYNER: He didn’t really say “unnecessarily”, the word he used starts with “f”... But I digress.
Point is, even though I never stopped training, even though I can count on the best sparring partner I could ask for… Getting inside that ring is a whole different feeling. The crowd, the pressure… That’s not something you can train for. That’s something you have to learn to live with and I… I never really had to, until now.
Wearing her heart on her sleeve as always, Skylar was almost using the camera as a confessional, letting all her emotions out.
SKYLAR RAYNER: Wearing a mask really took all that pressure off me. It wasn’t me the people were watching, they didn’t cheer me, nor boo me. They weren’t expecting me to win, or hoping I’d lose. Celestia was the one they came to see, the one they had whatever positive or negative feeling for. It was my shield, behind it I could do everything I couldn’t do as Skylar Rayner.
Finally raising her eyes from the ground, she looked back into the camera.
SKYLAR RAYNER: So when Blyss said wrestling under a mask was a horrible idea… Yeah, I can kinda see where she’s coming from. I guess we can say she’s talking from experience, but the point is, she’s not wrong. As much as Celestia helped me move my first steps in this business, as much as this persona allowed me to work with an incredible coach like Taylor.. It also took a lot off me, and not only on a personal level.
She forced a smile.
SKYLAR RAYNER: What I’m trying to say is, this is a new beginning for me. If you saw what I did as Celestia in UG, whether you appreciated my efforts there or you blame me for what happened, please forget that. It was a crazy, difficult and wonderful chapter of my life but it’s over now. What’s not over, instead, is my dream. And here, on Freedom, I have the chance to finally pursue it, to show what I can do, hopefully to be an inspiration for young girls who want to enter this business and, why not, to put smiles on faces.
From the distance, there was the sound of slow clapping, growing louder and louder as firm hands applauded Skylar’s words. As the blonde Dane turned her head to the side, she saw a towering figure approach, one wearing a grossly unfashionable Hawaiian shirt, one that contained both the Irish flag and the American stars and stripes. The man, about six foot four in height, with short brunette curls, approached Rayner, pulling down his aviator shades to his nose as he gave her a knowing nod.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: I applaud the way ye put that, Skylar. Bare, honest, straight from the heart.
Samuels halted his applause, greeting his sister-in-law kindly as he adjusted his newly won United States Championship on his shoulder, the belt he won only a week ago when Liberty returned, and guaranteed his place on the newly reforged Freedom roster.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: Fresh starts be something that many cannot handle, an’ I been there before. Stepping out of me own norm of competing in Europe to then move on to North America, crossing that ocean with me brother for a fresh challenge… That were hard. Different competitors, different surroundings, different management and setting. A fresh voyage can be daunting.
The Wrestling then stood next to Skylar, giving her a little nudge with his elbow, patting the gold upon his shoulder.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: But a new journey be what can make ye. Too many are one company ponies, never able to venture out from their home and take the gamble on something new, an’ only relying on past glory. But ye, Sky? Ye just said all ye needed to say. Ye mind be in the right place.
Seeing her brother-in-law and tag partner for the night truly helped Skylar regaining control of her emotions. His calmness and the comforting tone of his words seemed to wash away what was left of her doubts.
SKYLAR RAYNER: Well, if a new journey is what I’m embarking in here, I couldn’t ask for a better helmsman to help me chart the right course, mister United States Champion!
While her tone was jokingly, it was clear in her eyes that the respect and admiration she was feeling for Samuels were sincere, and they transcended their familiar bond.
SKYLAR RAYNER: This happened way sooner than I expected but I knew that, sooner or later, our paths would have crossed again. I would ask if you’re ready for this, partner, but I already know the answer.
Brendan nodded his head at his tag team partner for the night, then gazed down at the glistening championship belt that was on his shoulder.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: Aye, yeah. Ye know the answer to that one. But ye know, sometimes on a new voyage, a little bit of the familiar can be helpful. It can make ye feel like ye belong. If ye look back on me own career, outside of the Tag Team reigns I’ve had with me brother Ciaran, an’ me brother from another mother, Jackie… There be a pattern.
Samuels looked at the belt again, raising it slightly in the air as the artificial light shone against it.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: Once upon a time, I set sail into professional wrestling’s wide, open ocean. And upon that journey, I became National Champion. I then won the Great American Championship. After that, I became North American Champion. And now on this new voyage, I find myself earning the United States Championship.
The Kraken of the Deep Wrestling Sea curled a smile, one full of pride as he gazed at the title. His eyes then cast to Skylar’s wrist, catching the sight of a dazzling Rolex watch, one that seemed to be decorated with clouds and birds, a Danish emblem upon it.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: While this be new, it’s also familiar. An’ it not only feels right, it not only fills me with pride to hold it… But it also makes me more determined, on this grander stage, to make this championship mean more than any other I have held before. To give it a legacy that it deserves, an’ this nation deserves. An’ more so, that Wrestling deserves… Sometimes that familiar feeling can be what ye need to take that step forward.
Brendan gave a smile, patting his title as he let go of Skylar’s arm.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: A good friend once told me that. An’ it fits tonight. We’ve battled side by side before.
Skylar nodded, those words sounded quite familiar to her too.
SKYLAR RAYNER: We did. Not as often as Blyss and Dante, but I feel this could be an advantage for us. We know exactly what to expect from the two of them, but they?
She cracked a confident smile.
SKYLAR RAYNER: They’re not ready for us. So, let’s show the Liberty fans that the Hellhound is all bark and no bite. As for the Banshee? I’m sure she’ll live up to her name and will scream plenty when you put her into your Absolute Bearing.
Brendan nodded in appreciation, turning his head towards the camera.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: It wouldn’t be the first time that she would have screamed out over something that didn’t go her way. An’ it be foolish for the pair of them to cry out on Twitter about not realizing ye place in the business. Shows how much attention they are paying, an’ shows they haven’t done their homework. As for paying attention, that line reminds me of someone else who has dealt with ol’ Blyss over the years, someone who has given me enough knowledge over the years about the woman who claimed to be Eternal Champion.
Samuels grinned at the camera, dropping his shades down low.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: From this Bastard to you… The Bastard ye be familiar with, he sends his regards.
SKYLAR RAYNER: Well, can’t say my debut in Liberty was one to remember…
The former Underground backstage interviewer walked into frame, still dressed in her regular clothes. A pair of blue jeans, a gray hoodie and that omnipresent smile still printed on her face. She ran a hand through her long blonde hair, looking into the camera.
SKYLAR RAYNER: Not gonna lie, I was hoping to have a better start. I can’t shake this feeling that I could, and should, have done better. And that’s not me taking anything away from Antoinette and NV, two incredible competitors.. But see, last time I checked, I was headlining Underground PPV. I shared the ring with some of the best in this business, I took on people like Gavin Grimes, Riley Savell, Mallory Bennett, BROOKFORD…
A sigh escaped her lips, clearly she was missing the good ole days.
SKYLAR RAYNER: Then again, “last time” was one year ago and I haven’t pretty much stepped foot in the ring since then. My former manager Taylor is still mad at me for taking this, in his words, unnecessarily long break.
The Dane let out a soft chuckle.
SKYLAR RAYNER: He didn’t really say “unnecessarily”, the word he used starts with “f”... But I digress.
Point is, even though I never stopped training, even though I can count on the best sparring partner I could ask for… Getting inside that ring is a whole different feeling. The crowd, the pressure… That’s not something you can train for. That’s something you have to learn to live with and I… I never really had to, until now.
Wearing her heart on her sleeve as always, Skylar was almost using the camera as a confessional, letting all her emotions out.
SKYLAR RAYNER: Wearing a mask really took all that pressure off me. It wasn’t me the people were watching, they didn’t cheer me, nor boo me. They weren’t expecting me to win, or hoping I’d lose. Celestia was the one they came to see, the one they had whatever positive or negative feeling for. It was my shield, behind it I could do everything I couldn’t do as Skylar Rayner.
Finally raising her eyes from the ground, she looked back into the camera.
SKYLAR RAYNER: So when Blyss said wrestling under a mask was a horrible idea… Yeah, I can kinda see where she’s coming from. I guess we can say she’s talking from experience, but the point is, she’s not wrong. As much as Celestia helped me move my first steps in this business, as much as this persona allowed me to work with an incredible coach like Taylor.. It also took a lot off me, and not only on a personal level.
She forced a smile.
SKYLAR RAYNER: What I’m trying to say is, this is a new beginning for me. If you saw what I did as Celestia in UG, whether you appreciated my efforts there or you blame me for what happened, please forget that. It was a crazy, difficult and wonderful chapter of my life but it’s over now. What’s not over, instead, is my dream. And here, on Freedom, I have the chance to finally pursue it, to show what I can do, hopefully to be an inspiration for young girls who want to enter this business and, why not, to put smiles on faces.
From the distance, there was the sound of slow clapping, growing louder and louder as firm hands applauded Skylar’s words. As the blonde Dane turned her head to the side, she saw a towering figure approach, one wearing a grossly unfashionable Hawaiian shirt, one that contained both the Irish flag and the American stars and stripes. The man, about six foot four in height, with short brunette curls, approached Rayner, pulling down his aviator shades to his nose as he gave her a knowing nod.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: I applaud the way ye put that, Skylar. Bare, honest, straight from the heart.
Samuels halted his applause, greeting his sister-in-law kindly as he adjusted his newly won United States Championship on his shoulder, the belt he won only a week ago when Liberty returned, and guaranteed his place on the newly reforged Freedom roster.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: Fresh starts be something that many cannot handle, an’ I been there before. Stepping out of me own norm of competing in Europe to then move on to North America, crossing that ocean with me brother for a fresh challenge… That were hard. Different competitors, different surroundings, different management and setting. A fresh voyage can be daunting.
The Wrestling then stood next to Skylar, giving her a little nudge with his elbow, patting the gold upon his shoulder.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: But a new journey be what can make ye. Too many are one company ponies, never able to venture out from their home and take the gamble on something new, an’ only relying on past glory. But ye, Sky? Ye just said all ye needed to say. Ye mind be in the right place.
Seeing her brother-in-law and tag partner for the night truly helped Skylar regaining control of her emotions. His calmness and the comforting tone of his words seemed to wash away what was left of her doubts.
SKYLAR RAYNER: Well, if a new journey is what I’m embarking in here, I couldn’t ask for a better helmsman to help me chart the right course, mister United States Champion!
While her tone was jokingly, it was clear in her eyes that the respect and admiration she was feeling for Samuels were sincere, and they transcended their familiar bond.
SKYLAR RAYNER: This happened way sooner than I expected but I knew that, sooner or later, our paths would have crossed again. I would ask if you’re ready for this, partner, but I already know the answer.
Brendan nodded his head at his tag team partner for the night, then gazed down at the glistening championship belt that was on his shoulder.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: Aye, yeah. Ye know the answer to that one. But ye know, sometimes on a new voyage, a little bit of the familiar can be helpful. It can make ye feel like ye belong. If ye look back on me own career, outside of the Tag Team reigns I’ve had with me brother Ciaran, an’ me brother from another mother, Jackie… There be a pattern.
Samuels looked at the belt again, raising it slightly in the air as the artificial light shone against it.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: Once upon a time, I set sail into professional wrestling’s wide, open ocean. And upon that journey, I became National Champion. I then won the Great American Championship. After that, I became North American Champion. And now on this new voyage, I find myself earning the United States Championship.
The Kraken of the Deep Wrestling Sea curled a smile, one full of pride as he gazed at the title. His eyes then cast to Skylar’s wrist, catching the sight of a dazzling Rolex watch, one that seemed to be decorated with clouds and birds, a Danish emblem upon it.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: While this be new, it’s also familiar. An’ it not only feels right, it not only fills me with pride to hold it… But it also makes me more determined, on this grander stage, to make this championship mean more than any other I have held before. To give it a legacy that it deserves, an’ this nation deserves. An’ more so, that Wrestling deserves… Sometimes that familiar feeling can be what ye need to take that step forward.
Brendan gave a smile, patting his title as he let go of Skylar’s arm.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: A good friend once told me that. An’ it fits tonight. We’ve battled side by side before.
Skylar nodded, those words sounded quite familiar to her too.
SKYLAR RAYNER: We did. Not as often as Blyss and Dante, but I feel this could be an advantage for us. We know exactly what to expect from the two of them, but they?
She cracked a confident smile.
SKYLAR RAYNER: They’re not ready for us. So, let’s show the Liberty fans that the Hellhound is all bark and no bite. As for the Banshee? I’m sure she’ll live up to her name and will scream plenty when you put her into your Absolute Bearing.
Brendan nodded in appreciation, turning his head towards the camera.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: It wouldn’t be the first time that she would have screamed out over something that didn’t go her way. An’ it be foolish for the pair of them to cry out on Twitter about not realizing ye place in the business. Shows how much attention they are paying, an’ shows they haven’t done their homework. As for paying attention, that line reminds me of someone else who has dealt with ol’ Blyss over the years, someone who has given me enough knowledge over the years about the woman who claimed to be Eternal Champion.
Samuels grinned at the camera, dropping his shades down low.
BRENDAN SAMUELS: From this Bastard to you… The Bastard ye be familiar with, he sends his regards.
RECORDED EARLIER
The streets! Freedom presses on, but we’re outside, on the cold streets of Boston, not far away from the arena. We hear it all in the background - sirens, chit-chat, the hustle and bustle of the city itself living around us, and it’s also raining a bit. Only lightly, though. And it is on this dark street, lit in gold by streetlights and reflected by puddles we hear a voice.
Emery Layton: Boston, Boston, Boston! Got a good history with this town, as it goes. In fact, first time I came here, I won my first ever world title just down the road at the TD Garden dressed as Kate Bush from Babooshka- if you’re gonna break into the main event do it in style, I say. Been a real good city to me, this place. Good memories here! Hopefully tonight, we can add another good one.
Approaching us, is the silhouette of one Emery Layton. We only see her properly as she walks through the streetlights, but the outline of the She-King’s leather jacket and beanie is still visible as she walks toward us.
Emery Layton: Y’know being a Traveller, you wanna go to new places all the time. You wanna challenge yourself. You wanna cover new and uncharted territory, do and see stuff you hadn’t before. Had me a chat on the first episode of Liberation. I’m sitting there with an icepack on my head, big massive pizza on my knee as I’m recovering from a match with Melissa Reeves, and who else should rock up than Lily Callaghan. And I’ll tell you what, despite all I ever heard about her, I reckon she’s looking pretty well for a dead person.
But very-not-dead Lily comes up to me, oh she comes looking and she says to me, she goes ‘Em, I heard what you had to say and I saw you backed it up. I know who you are, I know what you wanna do and I say come to the land of Freedom, Emery. Come and help me make my new vision for this show a reality’. And came to the land I did, where I find myself with a shot at doing something new, but to get there I gotta go through some people I’ve passed by before.
Emery now stops in front of us, entirely visible and no longer an approaching, slightly shadowy silhouette. She whips off her beanie, her long red hair, eyeliner and pale complexion.
Emery Layton: I been doing this a long time, but it wasn’t till six years ago I started doing US bookings and on my second ever show over here, I met Rayven Hardy for the first time. She won that company’s top title on that day. Never got a chance to face her. Well, till today. I know what she’s about, what she’s capable of, but I’ve wondered ever since then whether I coulda taken that title from her if given half the chance. But someone I do know is Scotty Latimer. I dunno if HE remembers this, and why would he, but an Emery never forgets. Me and my old mate Christina Idol tried to take some Tag titles from him and Billy Danielson way back when. Didn’t manage it, and again, I’ve wondered ever since what it takes to beat that guy. And then, we come to Michael Marou, who I’ve never faced before but four reigns as Valiant Chaos Champ and a mean face can’t be wrong, can they? But what I hear most is that he’s an MMA specialist, and whenever the word ‘specialist’ gets bandied about around me? Mm-mm. Red sheet to a bull, dude.
Thing is, I want the Freedom Championship, and I wanna face TJ Techniques one on one. Some people say you can’t have your cake and eat it, but those people never met Emery Layton, who ain’t never seen a cake she couldn’t figure out. But to get there, I gotta face three questions- could I have beaten Rayven Hardy all them years ago? Can I avenge mine and Christi’s loss to Scotty Latimer? Can I beat an MMA specialist like Michael Marou on my first go? Three big questions, do I got the answers? Maybe. But I got one night to prove it and I wanna know for definite. So my question for Rayven, and for Scotty, and for Michael, my one simple question…who’m I going through first?
With rain running over her face and the cold freezing her breath, Emery winks and smiles as she slides out of our view and, presumably, to go and get ready.
The streets! Freedom presses on, but we’re outside, on the cold streets of Boston, not far away from the arena. We hear it all in the background - sirens, chit-chat, the hustle and bustle of the city itself living around us, and it’s also raining a bit. Only lightly, though. And it is on this dark street, lit in gold by streetlights and reflected by puddles we hear a voice.
Emery Layton: Boston, Boston, Boston! Got a good history with this town, as it goes. In fact, first time I came here, I won my first ever world title just down the road at the TD Garden dressed as Kate Bush from Babooshka- if you’re gonna break into the main event do it in style, I say. Been a real good city to me, this place. Good memories here! Hopefully tonight, we can add another good one.
Approaching us, is the silhouette of one Emery Layton. We only see her properly as she walks through the streetlights, but the outline of the She-King’s leather jacket and beanie is still visible as she walks toward us.
Emery Layton: Y’know being a Traveller, you wanna go to new places all the time. You wanna challenge yourself. You wanna cover new and uncharted territory, do and see stuff you hadn’t before. Had me a chat on the first episode of Liberation. I’m sitting there with an icepack on my head, big massive pizza on my knee as I’m recovering from a match with Melissa Reeves, and who else should rock up than Lily Callaghan. And I’ll tell you what, despite all I ever heard about her, I reckon she’s looking pretty well for a dead person.
But very-not-dead Lily comes up to me, oh she comes looking and she says to me, she goes ‘Em, I heard what you had to say and I saw you backed it up. I know who you are, I know what you wanna do and I say come to the land of Freedom, Emery. Come and help me make my new vision for this show a reality’. And came to the land I did, where I find myself with a shot at doing something new, but to get there I gotta go through some people I’ve passed by before.
Emery now stops in front of us, entirely visible and no longer an approaching, slightly shadowy silhouette. She whips off her beanie, her long red hair, eyeliner and pale complexion.
Emery Layton: I been doing this a long time, but it wasn’t till six years ago I started doing US bookings and on my second ever show over here, I met Rayven Hardy for the first time. She won that company’s top title on that day. Never got a chance to face her. Well, till today. I know what she’s about, what she’s capable of, but I’ve wondered ever since then whether I coulda taken that title from her if given half the chance. But someone I do know is Scotty Latimer. I dunno if HE remembers this, and why would he, but an Emery never forgets. Me and my old mate Christina Idol tried to take some Tag titles from him and Billy Danielson way back when. Didn’t manage it, and again, I’ve wondered ever since what it takes to beat that guy. And then, we come to Michael Marou, who I’ve never faced before but four reigns as Valiant Chaos Champ and a mean face can’t be wrong, can they? But what I hear most is that he’s an MMA specialist, and whenever the word ‘specialist’ gets bandied about around me? Mm-mm. Red sheet to a bull, dude.
Thing is, I want the Freedom Championship, and I wanna face TJ Techniques one on one. Some people say you can’t have your cake and eat it, but those people never met Emery Layton, who ain’t never seen a cake she couldn’t figure out. But to get there, I gotta face three questions- could I have beaten Rayven Hardy all them years ago? Can I avenge mine and Christi’s loss to Scotty Latimer? Can I beat an MMA specialist like Michael Marou on my first go? Three big questions, do I got the answers? Maybe. But I got one night to prove it and I wanna know for definite. So my question for Rayven, and for Scotty, and for Michael, my one simple question…who’m I going through first?
With rain running over her face and the cold freezing her breath, Emery winks and smiles as she slides out of our view and, presumably, to go and get ready.
HEADLINE: TAG
Dante Locke & Blyss Lockhart vs Brendan Samuels & Skylar Rayner
Dante Locke & Blyss Lockhart vs Brendan Samuels & Skylar Rayner
RECAP Brendan Samuels was waiting in the ring, waiting for his partner, Skylar Rayner, to make her way down. But there was one problem, her theme played but she was nowhere to be seen. Brendan began to look around suspiciously but then “Wolves of War” by Burn Halo blared over the PA system, it was Dante Locke’s theme. A few seconds passed when Locke appeared from backstage, dragging a bloodied and unconscious Skylar Rayner by her hair down the entrance way. The usually stoic Brendan Samuels was livid. A fire had lit in his eyes and he exited the ring and ran up the ramp! Dante then picked Skylar up and held her in front of him as Brendan was about to throw a punch but The Kraken had caught himself and held back when WHAM! Blyss Lockhart slammed a chair right over Brendan’s head. Dante and Blyss now took turns beating Samuels down. The larger Samuels tried to fight back, showing his resiliency but the numbers game and the chair were too much for Brendan to fight back from. Dante and Blyss soon dragged Samuels to the ring and they ordered the referee to start the match. The referee refused until Locke made some threats, causing the referee to ring the bell. Blyss held onto Brendan, not letting him go as Dante charged in and nailed him with Vestibule of Hell (Running knee strike to head). Blyss then climbed up the top rope and she leaped off, nailing a beautiful Blyzzard — Corkscrew shooting star press. She pinned the US Championship and picked up the three count and the win. Dante and Blyss soon exited the ring, leaving the team of Skylar and Brendan completely decimated through cheap sneak attacks. Brendan soon recovered and rushed over to Skylar, who was still unconscious and being attended to by backstage EMT’s. One thing is for certain, it’s clear these two groups will see each other again. WINNER Blyss Lockhart & Dante Locke METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 2:10 FINISHING MOVE Blyzzard |
BACKSTAGE
Backstage The Rogue Nightmare is pacing the area about ready to head out to the ring to main event against Michael Maurou, Emery Layton, and Rayven Hardy.
Scotty Latimer: Here we are right? Liberty Pro is back, Brooklyn's own Scotty Latimer is home again. But for some reason….it doesn't feel the same. Out of all three of us in this match where a number 1 contendership is on the line I see two women talking about going from dark match to main event and one guy using Liberty Pro to relaunch his career. I don't think, especially Rayven Hardy, that you understand what this place is all about, and why out of all three of us I am the only one that wants this for the right reasons.
Scotty continues pacing.
Scotty Latimer: This is my home. Liberty Pro is the best time in my pro wrestling career and I am a former Gotham champion. My goal to become champion isn't to stroke my own ego like it would Rayven Hardy, or to see if I can still do it like Michael Marou, or to add to her legacy like Emery. I want to be champion because that is what Liberty needs to survive and thrive. Because if I am the champion all bets are off. I will fight anyone, or everyone whether it's here or AGW or anywhere else and whoever wants to dance all they need to do is step up. Its my home, and its a promotion that needs to be carried by these shoulders because I am the only fucking person that believes in Liberty and its importance.
Scotty takes a deep breath.
Scotty Latimer: And you three are in my way. So tonight I am coming to fight. I might respect you three out of the ring but in that ring I don't...you three are a roadblock to what I want to accomplish. I am going to unleash hell, and be the Rogue Nightmare that was born here, and will die here. Lace them up kids….bring your hearts passion and skill and throw them to the side because none of that shiy matters. It's all about the fight...in the name of Liberty.
Scotty walks away.
Backstage The Rogue Nightmare is pacing the area about ready to head out to the ring to main event against Michael Maurou, Emery Layton, and Rayven Hardy.
Scotty Latimer: Here we are right? Liberty Pro is back, Brooklyn's own Scotty Latimer is home again. But for some reason….it doesn't feel the same. Out of all three of us in this match where a number 1 contendership is on the line I see two women talking about going from dark match to main event and one guy using Liberty Pro to relaunch his career. I don't think, especially Rayven Hardy, that you understand what this place is all about, and why out of all three of us I am the only one that wants this for the right reasons.
Scotty continues pacing.
Scotty Latimer: This is my home. Liberty Pro is the best time in my pro wrestling career and I am a former Gotham champion. My goal to become champion isn't to stroke my own ego like it would Rayven Hardy, or to see if I can still do it like Michael Marou, or to add to her legacy like Emery. I want to be champion because that is what Liberty needs to survive and thrive. Because if I am the champion all bets are off. I will fight anyone, or everyone whether it's here or AGW or anywhere else and whoever wants to dance all they need to do is step up. Its my home, and its a promotion that needs to be carried by these shoulders because I am the only fucking person that believes in Liberty and its importance.
Scotty takes a deep breath.
Scotty Latimer: And you three are in my way. So tonight I am coming to fight. I might respect you three out of the ring but in that ring I don't...you three are a roadblock to what I want to accomplish. I am going to unleash hell, and be the Rogue Nightmare that was born here, and will die here. Lace them up kids….bring your hearts passion and skill and throw them to the side because none of that shiy matters. It's all about the fight...in the name of Liberty.
Scotty walks away.
MAIN EVENT: FREEDOM #1 CONTENDER MATCH
Emery Layton vs Scotty Latimer vs Michael Marou vs Rayven Hardy
Emery Layton vs Scotty Latimer vs Michael Marou vs Rayven Hardy
RECAP This one started off with Emery Layton on fire! She took out Scotty with a running dropkick before leveling Michael Marou with one as well. Rayven went to clothesline Layton but Emery ducked it and took out Rayven with a clothesline of her own. The fans were going absolutely nuts for it. Marou got up to his knees and bam! Layton took him out with a shining wizard! She went for a quick pin but no! Scotty broke it up and he picked Layton off of Marou. She shoved Scotty away but he came right back with a sick superkick heard throughout the arena. He then set her up and nailed her with a flip piledriver! Rayven came out of nowhere off of the top rope and she hit Scotty with a hurricanrana that impressed the crowd, who were all for the return of Rayven Hardy to the ring! Scotty tried to get up but Rayven took him down with a sleeper hold drop. Ray scaled the top rope but as she leaped off for her Skittle Star Press, Michael Marou slammed a kendo stick across her chest, which is completely legal as it’s a four way match. Marou beat Rayven down with the kendo stick before using it on Scotty Latimer for a bit. Marou then went to swing it at Emery but she caught it with her arm. Marou tried to pull it away but Emery wouldn’t let up. Instead, she used it to pull Michael closer and Emery slammed her head into his, connecting with a sickening headbutt that made Michael drop down to his back. Emery dropped down for a pin but only got a two count. She stood up and picked Marou up with her, and he shoved her off but Emery came right back with a European uppercut. Michael stood there dazed and from out of nowhere, Scotty came into the picture and he hit Michael and Emery with a double clothesline! Rayven charged him but he kicked her in the midsection and hit a big spinning neckbreaker. Latimer was on fire! He went grab Emery but Michael Marou leveled him with Corporal Punishment (super kick)! Michael went for the pinfall but Emery broke it up with a running senton. Michael was dazed and Emery used this to her advantage as she hit the ropes and came back, hitting a “Babooshka” (Pendulum Lariat)! This match continued to be chaotic, with each person taking a turn leading it. Nobody knew who was going to be the number one contender but one thing was for certain, they were all hungry for it. At one point, it looked like Scotty had it won when he hit his Final Wave (Blade Runner) on Michael but Emery came from out of nowhere and hit Latimer with The Prikasa (Top Rope Diving Cutter)! Rayven Hardy then hit Emery with a cutter! The fans were going wild, they could feel Rayven was about to win! She climbed the turnbuckle and she leaped off, going for the Skittle Star Press but NO!!!! Rayven gets leveled by a "Photon Kick” (540 tornado kick)! And it’s none other than Kenzie Rydell, who’s wearing a ‘Freedom’ shirt! Kenzie smirks and points to the shirt before pointing down at Rayven and proclaiming this ‘her moment’ and nobody else's. Kenzie then left the ring and both Scotty and Emery, neither realizing what really happened, pinned Rayven. One… Two… THREE!!! DING DING DING!!! Emery and Scotty both get up and each one raises their hands before they start to argue. The referee then grabs Emery’s hand and Scotty’s and raises them both. The two look at each other in confusion and with an uneasy look. What’s going to happen now? Who’s the number one contender? Scotty? Emery? Both? And why did Kenzie Rydell attack Rayven Hardy? Only time will tell. WINNER Emery Layton and Scotty Lattimer METHOD Double Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 20:10 FINISHING MOVE Photon Kick |