Post by Jade Night on Jun 30, 2022 9:58:30 GMT
Empire Pro Presents…
Episode 55 of Conquest
Live from Ricoh Coliseum in Toronto, Ontario
On Tuesday, June 28th, 2022
Episode 55 of Conquest
Live from Ricoh Coliseum in Toronto, Ontario
On Tuesday, June 28th, 2022
MATCH ONE: SINGLES
Cait Flanagan vs Jackson
Cait Flanagan vs Jackson
| RECAP - Jackson made his way down the ramp but he was jumped by Cait and Josh Anderson! They literally obliterated him, hitting him with chairs, throwing him up against the barricade and then slamming a barbed wire 2x4 over his head. - Cait picked Jackson up and placed him into the ring. She ordered the referee to start the match but he refused. With some intimidation from Josh, the referee started it up. Cait picked up Jackson and nailed him with Irish Goodbye (Pedigree). But she wasn’t done. - Flanagan had been floating along for far too long and she had a point to prove. She locked in the Belfast Necktie (Rolling figure four headlock slams). She was relentless until Jackson passed out and the referee called for the bell. -Cait, The Million Dollar Baby, told the referee he had no right to call for the bell. Josh came into the ring and obliterated the referee with a clothesline for good measure. The couple shared a kiss in the middle of the ring to the boo’s of the crowd. WINNER Cait Flanagan METHOD TKO MATCH LENGTH 3:23 FINISHING MOVE Belfast Necktie |
SEGMENT
Earlier in the day…
The Socialites are walking into the Ricoh Coliseum when Madi Smith comes up to them. The ladies look at each other annoyed as Madi reaches them.
Madi Smith:Ladies, I’d love to get a word with the two of you abo…
Vanessa Page:What I have to say is that Danielle and I are super disappointed that Dante didn’t come interview us.
“Diamond Princess” Danielle Page:Excellent point, V. Dante is pretty hot.
Vanessa Page:So yeah, Madi. Where is Dante?
Madi Smith:Well…I’m not his keeper but shouldn’t the two of you be more worried about getting to the ring with The Lost tonight.
Vanessa Page:I really don’t like that tone in your voice.
Madi Smith:I’ll let that pass just this one time since you all have been so good to my sister, Jessica. You know one half of the Empire Pro Tag Team Champions. The very same Jessica that knows a lot of your secrets.
“Diamond Princess” Danielle Page:Jess is your sister?
Madi Smith:Better believe it.
“Diamond Princess” Danielle Page:That’s my girl. Come on V. We have to get ready for The Lost tonight.
Vanessa Page:Those two are going to lose their way tonight while we make our way to getting an EPW Tag Team Title match.
“Diamond Princess” Danielle Page:Ooooh, I like the thought of that. That would be a five star match. The Lost will just be another casualty of the truly privileged in this world. Us.
Earlier in the day…
The Socialites are walking into the Ricoh Coliseum when Madi Smith comes up to them. The ladies look at each other annoyed as Madi reaches them.
Madi Smith:Ladies, I’d love to get a word with the two of you abo…
Vanessa Page:What I have to say is that Danielle and I are super disappointed that Dante didn’t come interview us.
“Diamond Princess” Danielle Page:Excellent point, V. Dante is pretty hot.
Vanessa Page:So yeah, Madi. Where is Dante?
Madi Smith:Well…I’m not his keeper but shouldn’t the two of you be more worried about getting to the ring with The Lost tonight.
Vanessa Page:I really don’t like that tone in your voice.
Madi Smith:I’ll let that pass just this one time since you all have been so good to my sister, Jessica. You know one half of the Empire Pro Tag Team Champions. The very same Jessica that knows a lot of your secrets.
“Diamond Princess” Danielle Page:Jess is your sister?
Madi Smith:Better believe it.
“Diamond Princess” Danielle Page:That’s my girl. Come on V. We have to get ready for The Lost tonight.
Vanessa Page:Those two are going to lose their way tonight while we make our way to getting an EPW Tag Team Title match.
“Diamond Princess” Danielle Page:Ooooh, I like the thought of that. That would be a five star match. The Lost will just be another casualty of the truly privileged in this world. Us.
SEGMENT
As the cameras scanned around the Ricoh Arena, taking in the views of the quite frankly rabid fans, the camera zoomed in on one person In particular. Short dark curls pranced down the back of his neck, and the figure wearing the Hawaiian shirt stormed down the halls of the arena before he stopped in front of the office of Robb Hardy. He went to knock but the door actually opened and out stopped Robb, who had the Canadian Championship in hand.
Robb Hardy: Just the man I’m looking for. Here you go.
Robb placed the Canadian Championship on Brendan’s shoulder, the opposite of where the US Championship was.
Brendan Samuels: Aye, beautiful belt. I’m proud to have it.
Brendan turned to leave when Robb stopped him.
Robb Hardy: Hold up. I need the US Championship back. It’s officially retired.
Samuels turned back to Robb with a furrowed brow, it was clear he took exception to it.
Brendan Samuels: Mate, it was the US fans who backed me up during my entire reign on Freedom. They are the ones who drove me, who kept me going over these last few months and I won’t ever give this championship up until someone beats me for it.
Brendan went to turn away again but he paused and looked back at Robb.
Brendan Samuels: I’m proud to represent Canada, but I’ll be representing the loyal US fans as well, even after this Empire takeover.
The Kraken then turned and walked away, leaving Robb Hardy with a stunned look on his face.
Robb Hardy: Well shit.
Robb chuckled and shook his head before shutting the door and going back to his office.
As the cameras scanned around the Ricoh Arena, taking in the views of the quite frankly rabid fans, the camera zoomed in on one person In particular. Short dark curls pranced down the back of his neck, and the figure wearing the Hawaiian shirt stormed down the halls of the arena before he stopped in front of the office of Robb Hardy. He went to knock but the door actually opened and out stopped Robb, who had the Canadian Championship in hand.
Robb Hardy: Just the man I’m looking for. Here you go.
Robb placed the Canadian Championship on Brendan’s shoulder, the opposite of where the US Championship was.
Brendan Samuels: Aye, beautiful belt. I’m proud to have it.
Brendan turned to leave when Robb stopped him.
Robb Hardy: Hold up. I need the US Championship back. It’s officially retired.
Samuels turned back to Robb with a furrowed brow, it was clear he took exception to it.
Brendan Samuels: Mate, it was the US fans who backed me up during my entire reign on Freedom. They are the ones who drove me, who kept me going over these last few months and I won’t ever give this championship up until someone beats me for it.
Brendan went to turn away again but he paused and looked back at Robb.
Brendan Samuels: I’m proud to represent Canada, but I’ll be representing the loyal US fans as well, even after this Empire takeover.
The Kraken then turned and walked away, leaving Robb Hardy with a stunned look on his face.
Robb Hardy: Well shit.
Robb chuckled and shook his head before shutting the door and going back to his office.
MATCH TWO: TRIPLE THREAT
JJ Nova vs Lena Galante vs Billi Banks
JJ Nova vs Lena Galante vs Billi Banks
| RECAP - Lena, JJ and Billi all had something to prove here. All three were new to Empire, but Lena was the one with the most experience of the three, which is why she sat back and let JJ and Billi go at it at the beginning of the match. JJ took Billi down with a superkick, followed by a brainbuster. - This gave Lena the chance to obliterate JJ with an enziguri and then a jumping cutter. She controlled the match for a bit, getting near falls on each man. - The middle of the match, each person took turns gaining the lead but every time one of them had the match in hand, the third competitor would break up the count. - The end was a frantic one. JJ hit Billi with The kop effect (Pumphandle Cobra Clutch driver)! He pinned but Lena broke it up! JJ tried to get up but Lena nailed him with Spice Rack (Diving Double Knee Facebreaker)!!! Before she could pin, Banks recovered and nailed Bank Shot (Superkick to kneeling opponent)! He pinned and picked up the win! WINNER Billi Banks METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 9:43 FINISHING MOVE Bank Shot |
SEGMENT
Madi Smith is on standby backstage, where she is joined by the recently returned Miki. Formerly a part of IPW, under the Liberty banner, she returns now with a few months of experience under her belt.
Madi Smith: “Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Miki!”
The young woman gives a pleasant smile and waves to the camera.
Miki: “Hi guys!”
She smiles still, but gives Madi her attention now.
Madi Smith: “Now, Miki, this is your first TV show back under a Liberty Pro banner, how does it feel to be back?”
Miki nods along with the question, smiles for a moment, then gently bites her lip as she thinks about her answer.
Miki: “Gosh, Madi, it feels good. My run in IPW, well, maybe that didn’t last so long and then my run with Liberty itself wasn’t so long either. But I’ve been busy while I’ve been away, always training and still competing elsewhere. Being back now is like…I guess it’s like a homecoming in a way, but for me it’s more the potential opportunities here that are exciting.”
Madi Smith: “Would you consider it fair to call this a step up from where you’ve been competing so far?”
Miki: “Hmmm, yes and no. In terms of quality, well there are some great competitors in other places I compete. But the roster here definitely has a lot of depth. I mean just look at the draft, there were 40 picks all up and that’s not including the champions or each member of the teams. That’s a lot of talent…”
Madi Smith: “Speaking of the draft, you were drafted 37th overall and 19th out of 20 for Empire. How does that make you feel?”
After a brief pause, Miki shrugs.
Miki: “What can I say? I mean I only just returned, so I don’t have much to complain about. Do I want to be seen as being at the bottom of the pile, so to speak? …no, definitely. But it’s just a draft, too, and I can’t let that dishearten me. If anything, I suppose it just means I get to prove people wrong. I’ve always had to do that, so it’s familiar to me. That obviously starts here, tonight, against Karen.”
This time it’s Madi who nods along.
Madi Smith: “What’s your opinion on Karen?”
Miki: “Oh she’s a tough girl, I like her style and the way she carries herself. Tonight she’s going to give me a really good battle, I just know it, but that’s what’s exciting about it all as well.”
Madi Smith: “Well, best of luck with it all, Miki.”
Miki: “Thank you, and thank you to all of my fans, I love you guys.”
She waves to the camera again, before springing away with her usual bubbly step. Madi watches her go, then looks back at the camera, bringing the end of the segment.
Madi Smith is on standby backstage, where she is joined by the recently returned Miki. Formerly a part of IPW, under the Liberty banner, she returns now with a few months of experience under her belt.
Madi Smith: “Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Miki!”
The young woman gives a pleasant smile and waves to the camera.
Miki: “Hi guys!”
She smiles still, but gives Madi her attention now.
Madi Smith: “Now, Miki, this is your first TV show back under a Liberty Pro banner, how does it feel to be back?”
Miki nods along with the question, smiles for a moment, then gently bites her lip as she thinks about her answer.
Miki: “Gosh, Madi, it feels good. My run in IPW, well, maybe that didn’t last so long and then my run with Liberty itself wasn’t so long either. But I’ve been busy while I’ve been away, always training and still competing elsewhere. Being back now is like…I guess it’s like a homecoming in a way, but for me it’s more the potential opportunities here that are exciting.”
Madi Smith: “Would you consider it fair to call this a step up from where you’ve been competing so far?”
Miki: “Hmmm, yes and no. In terms of quality, well there are some great competitors in other places I compete. But the roster here definitely has a lot of depth. I mean just look at the draft, there were 40 picks all up and that’s not including the champions or each member of the teams. That’s a lot of talent…”
Madi Smith: “Speaking of the draft, you were drafted 37th overall and 19th out of 20 for Empire. How does that make you feel?”
After a brief pause, Miki shrugs.
Miki: “What can I say? I mean I only just returned, so I don’t have much to complain about. Do I want to be seen as being at the bottom of the pile, so to speak? …no, definitely. But it’s just a draft, too, and I can’t let that dishearten me. If anything, I suppose it just means I get to prove people wrong. I’ve always had to do that, so it’s familiar to me. That obviously starts here, tonight, against Karen.”
This time it’s Madi who nods along.
Madi Smith: “What’s your opinion on Karen?”
Miki: “Oh she’s a tough girl, I like her style and the way she carries herself. Tonight she’s going to give me a really good battle, I just know it, but that’s what’s exciting about it all as well.”
Madi Smith: “Well, best of luck with it all, Miki.”
Miki: “Thank you, and thank you to all of my fans, I love you guys.”
She waves to the camera again, before springing away with her usual bubbly step. Madi watches her go, then looks back at the camera, bringing the end of the segment.
SEGMENT
The scene opens with The Leader of the Lost Generation, Noah Ortega; standing in front of his followers (8 members, all dressed in black and masked up) on a pedestal, alongside his partners Anton Palmer and Gio Moriello, who are both dressed in their in ring attires in preparation for their matches later on. Ortega on the other-hand, is simply wearing a plain black t-shirt, black jeans, and black timberlands.
Noah Ortega: It appears that already, we've found ourselves a group of adversaries, but that was all too predictable, there were always going to be plights against our cause, but now, we have to deal with them.
Ortega rotates his neck, cracking it in the process as he begins to grin in relief.
Noah Ortega: Emily Carter wants to band together a team to go up against us...
There's murmurs of disapproval from the group, jeers even and as they chatter. Ortega quickly regains control, continuing;
Noah Ortega: After everything I offered her?
He scoffs in disgust.
Noah Ortega: Despite the fact that I tried to offer my hand out to her and invite her into The Lost? And then she attacks me... attacks me after a match she had no business being involved in, but she got herself involved because deep down she knows, that everything I've said about her these past few weeks, they're absolute facts, no lies - I've been spittin' since the moment I got here. And since the moment I got here, I detected that Emily Carter is just another lost soul, aimlessly wandering, wanting to achieve greatness but never being able to reach the pedestal. Hanging off the coattails of Antoinette, when in reality, if she embraced who she truly was, she could be something greater! Sure she's had a couple of impressive reigns, a couple of trio's titles in the odd promotion and she burst onto the scene too, back in 2015 - lets not forget. But Emily that was then and this is now, the landscape has changed. With us, you could've been something but now, you've made your bed and now, you have to be ready to lay in it, with Nash and Carter too. If you wanna surround yourself with a bunch of moronic braindead bimbos then so be it... it won't be long until you realize that they won't be enough for you.
Noah Ortega: The way of The Lost, is the way of the future.
In unison, The Lost say back to him:
The Lost: And soon, the world will know.
Noah Ortega: That in our world, all your dreams can come true. There's no limitations, there's no excuses, there's just doing and The Lost, will always find their way. Tonight, we will find our back to winning ways, when we take on The Socialites. Vanessa and Danielle Page. Four time tag team champions who shouldn't be taken lightly, no doubt.
He nods his head in approval.
Noah Ortega: But they're not up against any run of the mill team here, they're up against two of the best. Two agents of The Lost, two members who have joined me on our conquest to power. The power that was never meant for us, the power that they don't want us to have. We want it all and together, we'll get there. The Mammoth Among Men, from the streets of Brixton, London - England... Anton Palmer. The Trailblazer, from the hoods of Milano, Italia - Gio Moriello! And of course, Canada's Forgotten Sweetheart - The Leader of The Lost Generation, Captain of Freedom, Liberator of Justice, Face of The EMPIRE - Noah Ortega! We are the guys who are going to lead Empire to the next level. And together, we'll make sure the world, will soon know.
The scene gradually fades to black.
The scene opens with The Leader of the Lost Generation, Noah Ortega; standing in front of his followers (8 members, all dressed in black and masked up) on a pedestal, alongside his partners Anton Palmer and Gio Moriello, who are both dressed in their in ring attires in preparation for their matches later on. Ortega on the other-hand, is simply wearing a plain black t-shirt, black jeans, and black timberlands.
Noah Ortega: It appears that already, we've found ourselves a group of adversaries, but that was all too predictable, there were always going to be plights against our cause, but now, we have to deal with them.
Ortega rotates his neck, cracking it in the process as he begins to grin in relief.
Noah Ortega: Emily Carter wants to band together a team to go up against us...
There's murmurs of disapproval from the group, jeers even and as they chatter. Ortega quickly regains control, continuing;
Noah Ortega: After everything I offered her?
He scoffs in disgust.
Noah Ortega: Despite the fact that I tried to offer my hand out to her and invite her into The Lost? And then she attacks me... attacks me after a match she had no business being involved in, but she got herself involved because deep down she knows, that everything I've said about her these past few weeks, they're absolute facts, no lies - I've been spittin' since the moment I got here. And since the moment I got here, I detected that Emily Carter is just another lost soul, aimlessly wandering, wanting to achieve greatness but never being able to reach the pedestal. Hanging off the coattails of Antoinette, when in reality, if she embraced who she truly was, she could be something greater! Sure she's had a couple of impressive reigns, a couple of trio's titles in the odd promotion and she burst onto the scene too, back in 2015 - lets not forget. But Emily that was then and this is now, the landscape has changed. With us, you could've been something but now, you've made your bed and now, you have to be ready to lay in it, with Nash and Carter too. If you wanna surround yourself with a bunch of moronic braindead bimbos then so be it... it won't be long until you realize that they won't be enough for you.
Noah Ortega: The way of The Lost, is the way of the future.
In unison, The Lost say back to him:
The Lost: And soon, the world will know.
Noah Ortega: That in our world, all your dreams can come true. There's no limitations, there's no excuses, there's just doing and The Lost, will always find their way. Tonight, we will find our back to winning ways, when we take on The Socialites. Vanessa and Danielle Page. Four time tag team champions who shouldn't be taken lightly, no doubt.
He nods his head in approval.
Noah Ortega: But they're not up against any run of the mill team here, they're up against two of the best. Two agents of The Lost, two members who have joined me on our conquest to power. The power that was never meant for us, the power that they don't want us to have. We want it all and together, we'll get there. The Mammoth Among Men, from the streets of Brixton, London - England... Anton Palmer. The Trailblazer, from the hoods of Milano, Italia - Gio Moriello! And of course, Canada's Forgotten Sweetheart - The Leader of The Lost Generation, Captain of Freedom, Liberator of Justice, Face of The EMPIRE - Noah Ortega! We are the guys who are going to lead Empire to the next level. And together, we'll make sure the world, will soon know.
The scene gradually fades to black.
MATCH THREE: SINGLES
Miki vs Karen Willow
Miki vs Karen Willow
| RECAP - Miki has had a rough go at it lately and she was full of energy at the beginning of this one. She nailed a side kick, then a spinning heel kick before she got Karen in the corner and hit multiple knee strikes to her abdomen. She then followed that up with a running bulldog. - Miki would try to end it early with her Mikillshot but Karen had it scouted and she countered with a knee to the gut and a snap DDT. She then hit Miki with Kaboom!: Exploder Suplex and pinned but Miki kicked out. Karen would dominate the match from here, hitting signature move after signature move, but Miki wouldn’t stay down. She was resilient tonight. - Karen slapped her in the head a few times, telling her to stay the hell down. She then stepped back and lined Miki up for Wolf Fang Fist (Superman Punch). Miki stirred and Willow charged in but Karen dropped down, dodging it! She then rolled up Karen with a victory roll and that was it! She got the three count with Karen kicking out right after the three! - The bell rings and Miki wins! But the celebration is cut short as Karen hits her Wolf Fang Fist this time. She then stood over Miki and said this isn’t over. WINNER Miki METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 8:22 FINISHING MOVE Victory Roll |
SEGMENT
There’s a definite change in the atmosphere here in Toronto as the ever loyal paparazzi of our beloved Great Lakes champion are seen making their way down the hall. They are walking backwards, clearly focused on someone outside of the view of the camera, and the fans of Empire know that this is none other than Hilary Levandrier herself. The newly crowned Great Lakes champion is striding down the hall with confidence as she allows for her picture to be taken from all angles.
Hilary Levandrier: Make sure you get the good light for my championship belt.
Hilary has placed both of her hands against the golden plate of her championship as she makes a few turns from left to right while they keep taking her picture. The smile on her face growing as her gaze shifts towards the camera where she knows the audience has been watching.
Hilary Levandrier: I had the best time being the Queen of New York, but it feels so much more appropriate for me to be honoring the Great Lakes with my championship reign. I am a proud Canadian girl after all and this is the place where I should be bringing back the honor that my family's name deserves. No longer will people whisper behind our backs, they will know that the name Levandrier means great things, and it'll all be thanks to me.
Hilary throws both of her hands up high in the air with a big smile on her face as she makes this declaration. She quickly clears her throat as the expression on her face shifts back to one much more serious.
Hilary Levandrier: My championship might not be on the line here tonight, but I still intend to put on a great show for my adoring public, and I think we both know that I shouldn't be depending on you to carry any of the weight Tamsin. You do have a history of disappearing as quickly as you return to this business. Maybe tonight will be a clear lesson as to how much further we've evolved to a point where this new generation has grown much too talented for you to be able to keep up. This is my home after all and I will not be made a fool of by anyone.
Hilary brings the palm of one hand up to her lips in order to blow a kiss to the camera, giving the audience one final wave, before she strides further down the hall still being followed by her paparazzi taking their pictures of the young Great Lakes champion.
There’s a definite change in the atmosphere here in Toronto as the ever loyal paparazzi of our beloved Great Lakes champion are seen making their way down the hall. They are walking backwards, clearly focused on someone outside of the view of the camera, and the fans of Empire know that this is none other than Hilary Levandrier herself. The newly crowned Great Lakes champion is striding down the hall with confidence as she allows for her picture to be taken from all angles.
Hilary Levandrier: Make sure you get the good light for my championship belt.
Hilary has placed both of her hands against the golden plate of her championship as she makes a few turns from left to right while they keep taking her picture. The smile on her face growing as her gaze shifts towards the camera where she knows the audience has been watching.
Hilary Levandrier: I had the best time being the Queen of New York, but it feels so much more appropriate for me to be honoring the Great Lakes with my championship reign. I am a proud Canadian girl after all and this is the place where I should be bringing back the honor that my family's name deserves. No longer will people whisper behind our backs, they will know that the name Levandrier means great things, and it'll all be thanks to me.
Hilary throws both of her hands up high in the air with a big smile on her face as she makes this declaration. She quickly clears her throat as the expression on her face shifts back to one much more serious.
Hilary Levandrier: My championship might not be on the line here tonight, but I still intend to put on a great show for my adoring public, and I think we both know that I shouldn't be depending on you to carry any of the weight Tamsin. You do have a history of disappearing as quickly as you return to this business. Maybe tonight will be a clear lesson as to how much further we've evolved to a point where this new generation has grown much too talented for you to be able to keep up. This is my home after all and I will not be made a fool of by anyone.
Hilary brings the palm of one hand up to her lips in order to blow a kiss to the camera, giving the audience one final wave, before she strides further down the hall still being followed by her paparazzi taking their pictures of the young Great Lakes champion.
SEGMENT
Cameras cut to the parking area of the Ricoh Coliseum where 'YOUR Favorite Drug' Xavier Laroux paced back and forth, damn near walking a path in that blacktop. Laroux had been smoking like a chimney, clearly stressed out about his Noir Championship match tonight.
Xavier Laroux: 'Gonna tell me there ain't gonna be no games..no drama..they must think I'm fuckin stupid. I know how this shit works. Robb's fuckin owned by Chuck. Ray is Robb's lilgirl. I'm not fuckin stupid. Ain't even gonna let them get me like that.'
Xavier shook his head, seemingly a bit wrapped up in this whole thing. Taking a quick drag off of his cigarette, exhaling the smoke as he continued to speak.
Xavier Laroux: 'Nah..fuck that. Fuck that. Ray never could get one up over me on the up and up and now that her daddy's in charge, and you got Chuck pullin all the strings. Fuckin Ray is just as bad as them. She always was full as shit. Wanna act one way but when worst comes to worst, she's bouta fuckin hypocrite.'
Throwing that cigarette on the ground, Xavier stepped it out as he turned to face the camera pointed at him.
Xavier Laroux: 'But it's not gonna work. See, I'm fuckin ready for it. They wanna tryta pull some shit like this on ME?! Gonna tryta fuck ME?! Shit ain't gonna go down like that. They think they know what they're doin? Lemme fuckin show y'all how it's done.'
Pushing past the cameraman, Xavier went through those doors leading into the interior of the arena. No sooner than he got back inside, he stopped in his tracks, that oh so arrogant smirk growing out across his face.
Xavier Laroux: 'Gonna clip the lilbirdie's wings.'
Cameras cut to the parking area of the Ricoh Coliseum where 'YOUR Favorite Drug' Xavier Laroux paced back and forth, damn near walking a path in that blacktop. Laroux had been smoking like a chimney, clearly stressed out about his Noir Championship match tonight.
Xavier Laroux: 'Gonna tell me there ain't gonna be no games..no drama..they must think I'm fuckin stupid. I know how this shit works. Robb's fuckin owned by Chuck. Ray is Robb's lilgirl. I'm not fuckin stupid. Ain't even gonna let them get me like that.'
Xavier shook his head, seemingly a bit wrapped up in this whole thing. Taking a quick drag off of his cigarette, exhaling the smoke as he continued to speak.
Xavier Laroux: 'Nah..fuck that. Fuck that. Ray never could get one up over me on the up and up and now that her daddy's in charge, and you got Chuck pullin all the strings. Fuckin Ray is just as bad as them. She always was full as shit. Wanna act one way but when worst comes to worst, she's bouta fuckin hypocrite.'
Throwing that cigarette on the ground, Xavier stepped it out as he turned to face the camera pointed at him.
Xavier Laroux: 'But it's not gonna work. See, I'm fuckin ready for it. They wanna tryta pull some shit like this on ME?! Gonna tryta fuck ME?! Shit ain't gonna go down like that. They think they know what they're doin? Lemme fuckin show y'all how it's done.'
Pushing past the cameraman, Xavier went through those doors leading into the interior of the arena. No sooner than he got back inside, he stopped in his tracks, that oh so arrogant smirk growing out across his face.
Xavier Laroux: 'Gonna clip the lilbirdie's wings.'
MATCH FOUR: TAG
Socialites vs Gio Moriello & Anton Palmer w/Noah Ortega
Socialites vs Gio Moriello & Anton Palmer w/Noah Ortega
| RECAP - The Socialites led this match early, with Vanessa controlling Gio with her speed. Her and Danielle would take turns, tiring out Gio without Anton getting a chance to get any offense in. - Eventually, the referee would be knocked out when Noah grabbed him by the foot, pulled him out of the ring and slammed him into the ring post. - It was fair game now and Anton and Noah were in the ring. Anton hit Vanessa with Blurred Vision - Spinning Backfist! He then hit Danielle with it too! Noah then told Gio to hold up Vanessa and he hit her with "Lost Souls" - Curb Stomp! He then did the same to Danielle! - Noah took the referee’s shirt and slipped it on. He then slid into the ring and as Gio pinned, he counted to three! He demanded the ringside crew ring the bell and they do. Noah then looked at the camera and said that this will keep happening until the Lost gets more worthy opponents. WINNER The Lost METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 5:11 FINISHING MOVE Lost Souls |
SEGMENT
Busy first night for Empire’s lead backstage interviewer Madi Smith, now standing in front of a backdrop with the company’s logo with not one but two guests. The tall blonde was a familiar face to the Liberty fans watching the Canadian based promotion, having competed in Freedom since the return. Next to the smiling Skylar Rayner was her tag partner and close friend Anastasia Starling who may be new around these parts but definitely not to the business.
Madi Smith: Good evening Empire fans. Please welcome my guests at this time, Sky and Ana.
The Underground Tornado tag team champions politely smiled at their host and waved their hands at the camera to greet the fans watching at home.
Madi Smith: Ladies, tonight you will make your Empire competing in the company’s first main event after the relaunch. How do you feel?
Skylar Rayner: Well, Madi, it’s definitely not our first rodeo, we’ve been in main events before, both in singles competition and as a team. But with this being the first Conquest since the old GWA days? I’m telling you, this feels different.
The Songbird nodded and further elaborated her partner’s thoughts.
Anastasia Starling: It’s an historic night for both Empire and its fans. We’re honored to be part of it, and to be chosen to main event their first show.
Madi Smith: And yet you expressed concern when Freedom was rebranded and Robb Hardy was announced as the new General Manager. Do you feel like you were too quick and hard to judge him, seeing how he personally handpicked you both even though you were not listed as a tag team in the draft?
Neither Ana nor Sky flinched at the insidious question. Likely they were expecting something along these lines.
Skylar Rayner: I know that might have come off as rude, but it wasn’t a dig at Robb, not at all. We simply expressed our concern about how the “takeover” happened. I mean, we’ve seen plenty of those, and you can count on your fingers how many of them didn’t blow up in a few months.
Anastasia Starling: I have enough experience to tell that these changes didn’t happen overnight. The roster and the fans had been lied to for who knows how long, they’ve been led to believe something when it was an entirely different thing. They had to endure Lily’s shambolic booking, her retaliatory actions. Think of Sparrow, who got put through impossible hoops and was even fired at some point. Only to be told “You know what? Forget all that, we’re starting over anew.
Starling seemed to feel very strongly about this.
Anastasia Starling: So yes, we are wary of changes when they come from above because those people rarely have the wrestlers and the fans best interests at heart.
Skylar Rayner: With that said, we want to thank Robb for bringing us to Empire and we’re looking forward to writing together the history of this company.
Skylar was quick to add. Madi took a moment and then proceeded with the next question.
Madi Smith: Sky, you already have quite the history with one of your opponents, Blyss.
Skylar Rayner: Mostly with Dante but yeah, I’ve been in the ring with her too. I don’t need to tell you how talented she is, her trophy case speaks for itself. I don’t need to tell you how unpredictable and ruthless she can be either which is a shame. If you think that this is the same woman who trained and basically adopted Fallon… I mean, Fallon has always been the epitome of sportsmanship, she never took a shortcut, she never intentionally hurt or assaulted anyone. Makes you wonder what happened to the woman who taught her about honor and fair play, what changed her.
Skylar let out a long sigh. Perhaps it was the memory of her friend, perhaps just the disappointment.
Skylar Rayner: But yeah, it’s not my place to judge her choices. My place is across from her in that ring, with the best tag partner I could dream for by my side.
Her words put a smile on Ana’s face. Madi then addressed the Pale Winged Passerine.
Madi Smith: What about her partner, Marcus Black?
Anastasia Starling: What about him? He’s big, strong and hits hard as a truck. But he also has issues with Blyss so the big question here is: can they coexist?
Skylar Rayner: We trained hard all week, and we have dealt with combinations of raw power and speed before. If they’re on the same page, we’ll be ready for them. If their team is going to implode… Well, that would make our night easier I guess.
She glanced at Ana who quickly continued.
Anastasia Starling: We are the UG Tornado Tag Team champions, and we are the number one contenders to the GCW titles. We’re not afraid of any challenge,
Madi Smith: Speaking of your team. The name SkyBird has been thrown around a lot lately. Is that your official name?
The two women chuckled.
Skylar Rayner: Well.. I’m Sky, she’s Birdie… So I guess it checks out!
Anastasia Starling: It also has a nice ring to it.
She added in almost a whisper. Madi nodded at the cameraman who signaled her that their time is over.
Madi Smith: Well, it’s been a pleasure to chat with you ladies. Thank you for your time and good luck in your match.
Skylar Rayner: Thank you Madi. Take it from someone who has done your job for quite some time, you’re really good at this.
Smith smiled at the compliment. Starling grabbed her tag team partner by the arm and gently dragged her away.
Anastasia Starling: Don’t get nostalgic now, Sky. It’s time to put some smiles on faces.
And on what sort of became their motto, the duo left.
Busy first night for Empire’s lead backstage interviewer Madi Smith, now standing in front of a backdrop with the company’s logo with not one but two guests. The tall blonde was a familiar face to the Liberty fans watching the Canadian based promotion, having competed in Freedom since the return. Next to the smiling Skylar Rayner was her tag partner and close friend Anastasia Starling who may be new around these parts but definitely not to the business.
Madi Smith: Good evening Empire fans. Please welcome my guests at this time, Sky and Ana.
The Underground Tornado tag team champions politely smiled at their host and waved their hands at the camera to greet the fans watching at home.
Madi Smith: Ladies, tonight you will make your Empire competing in the company’s first main event after the relaunch. How do you feel?
Skylar Rayner: Well, Madi, it’s definitely not our first rodeo, we’ve been in main events before, both in singles competition and as a team. But with this being the first Conquest since the old GWA days? I’m telling you, this feels different.
The Songbird nodded and further elaborated her partner’s thoughts.
Anastasia Starling: It’s an historic night for both Empire and its fans. We’re honored to be part of it, and to be chosen to main event their first show.
Madi Smith: And yet you expressed concern when Freedom was rebranded and Robb Hardy was announced as the new General Manager. Do you feel like you were too quick and hard to judge him, seeing how he personally handpicked you both even though you were not listed as a tag team in the draft?
Neither Ana nor Sky flinched at the insidious question. Likely they were expecting something along these lines.
Skylar Rayner: I know that might have come off as rude, but it wasn’t a dig at Robb, not at all. We simply expressed our concern about how the “takeover” happened. I mean, we’ve seen plenty of those, and you can count on your fingers how many of them didn’t blow up in a few months.
Anastasia Starling: I have enough experience to tell that these changes didn’t happen overnight. The roster and the fans had been lied to for who knows how long, they’ve been led to believe something when it was an entirely different thing. They had to endure Lily’s shambolic booking, her retaliatory actions. Think of Sparrow, who got put through impossible hoops and was even fired at some point. Only to be told “You know what? Forget all that, we’re starting over anew.
Starling seemed to feel very strongly about this.
Anastasia Starling: So yes, we are wary of changes when they come from above because those people rarely have the wrestlers and the fans best interests at heart.
Skylar Rayner: With that said, we want to thank Robb for bringing us to Empire and we’re looking forward to writing together the history of this company.
Skylar was quick to add. Madi took a moment and then proceeded with the next question.
Madi Smith: Sky, you already have quite the history with one of your opponents, Blyss.
Skylar Rayner: Mostly with Dante but yeah, I’ve been in the ring with her too. I don’t need to tell you how talented she is, her trophy case speaks for itself. I don’t need to tell you how unpredictable and ruthless she can be either which is a shame. If you think that this is the same woman who trained and basically adopted Fallon… I mean, Fallon has always been the epitome of sportsmanship, she never took a shortcut, she never intentionally hurt or assaulted anyone. Makes you wonder what happened to the woman who taught her about honor and fair play, what changed her.
Skylar let out a long sigh. Perhaps it was the memory of her friend, perhaps just the disappointment.
Skylar Rayner: But yeah, it’s not my place to judge her choices. My place is across from her in that ring, with the best tag partner I could dream for by my side.
Her words put a smile on Ana’s face. Madi then addressed the Pale Winged Passerine.
Madi Smith: What about her partner, Marcus Black?
Anastasia Starling: What about him? He’s big, strong and hits hard as a truck. But he also has issues with Blyss so the big question here is: can they coexist?
Skylar Rayner: We trained hard all week, and we have dealt with combinations of raw power and speed before. If they’re on the same page, we’ll be ready for them. If their team is going to implode… Well, that would make our night easier I guess.
She glanced at Ana who quickly continued.
Anastasia Starling: We are the UG Tornado Tag Team champions, and we are the number one contenders to the GCW titles. We’re not afraid of any challenge,
Madi Smith: Speaking of your team. The name SkyBird has been thrown around a lot lately. Is that your official name?
The two women chuckled.
Skylar Rayner: Well.. I’m Sky, she’s Birdie… So I guess it checks out!
Anastasia Starling: It also has a nice ring to it.
She added in almost a whisper. Madi nodded at the cameraman who signaled her that their time is over.
Madi Smith: Well, it’s been a pleasure to chat with you ladies. Thank you for your time and good luck in your match.
Skylar Rayner: Thank you Madi. Take it from someone who has done your job for quite some time, you’re really good at this.
Smith smiled at the compliment. Starling grabbed her tag team partner by the arm and gently dragged her away.
Anastasia Starling: Don’t get nostalgic now, Sky. It’s time to put some smiles on faces.
And on what sort of became their motto, the duo left.
MATCH FIVE: NON-TITLE
Hilary Levandrier vs Tamsin
Hilary Levandrier vs Tamsin
| RECAP - Hilary has been impressive as the QONY, well, now the Great Lakes Champion. But now she’s going up against the former Liberty Champion in Tamsin. Tamsin really gave it to Emery a few weeks ago, though she wasn’t able to come out on top, so she’s looking for a big win here. - Tamsin too the lead early, brutalizing Hilary and focusing on her leg, trying to take out one of her limbs, showing how calculated she is. Tamsin soon hit a rolling elbow to the back of Hilary’s head and pinned but she kicked out after two. Tamsin was furious and she complained to the referee. - This gave Levandrier a chance to come back and she hit a bicycle kick! She then picked her up and hit her Vancity Lights (Arm-Trap Flatiner) and it looked to be over as she pinned but Tamsin got her foot on the ropes! -Hilary couldn’t believe it but she re-focused. She waited for Tamsin to stir before she went for her Killshot (Somesault Neckbreaker) but Tamsin had it scouted and VETO! Tamsin with her classic and brutal headbutt! Hilary fell like a ton of bricks and Tamsin was clearly stunned but she managed to pin and she picked up a HUGE win over the Great Lakes Champion. WINNER Tamsin METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 12:33 FINISHING MOVE VETO |
SEGMENT
We open up to a close up on the Noir championship as the fans begin to cheer while they watch the big screen from their seats. The camera fades back slowly and we see that the championship is resting over the shoulder of the new Noir champion, Rayven Hardy! Despite the rough few weeks she's had, she looks to be recovered and was smiling for the first time in a long time.
Rayven Hardy: Before I get into tonight, I want to take a quick sec to shoutout Emery Layton. As the Noir champion, she really put this championship on the map by taking on any and all comers. She fought with respect and she fought valiantly, and I just think we need to recognize what she brought to the table.
The fans begin a 'Thank You Emery' chant as Rayven pauses, nodding along with the chant. As it finally begins to die down, she continues.
Rayven Hardy: Now, so much has happened over the last month. Thankfully, the whole deal with Julian Savell is over. I can't thank Jack enough for being there for me, but now, clearly we are doing our own things professionally. He's in Liberty, and I'm...back in Empire. Don't get me wrong, I love the Canadian fans, I just never imagined Empire Pro would return. My run in Empire was one that really helped me grow as a wrestler. I faced a lot of obstacles, and I learned that the success I found before Empire wasn't always guaranteed. Battling people like Riley Savell and Molly Reid, and losing championships and championship opportunities to them, was probably the best thing that could have happened to me then. I was already a former world champion. I was acting, and I had a sense of...I'm Rayven Hardy. I'll always be successful.
Those struggles shaped me, and someone else that helped shape me, believe it or not, was Xavier Laroux.
The fans boo at the mention of Laroux's name.
Rayven Hardy: I know, I know. Alot of my fans tried to warn me when I started dating him, but I saw a different side of him. But as time passed, he eventually proved the fans right, and myself wrong. But, I did learn a lesson from him too. To watch who you believe and believe in. So Xavier, tonight, I believe in myself. This is my first time defending the Noir championship, but it won't be my last. I plan on doing everything Emery did and more to continue elevating this championship. I pride myself on fighting forever and tonight X? I'll fight you all night long if I have to, but you aren't walking out with MY NOIR Championship.
SEGMENT
Sparrow: It’s probably insane to everyone and their mother...To step aside even if I’m very obviously owed a fair shake, an actual one-on-one championship match with Blyss. I mean...I did pin her again in that fun little match that saw Lily as far from any power as possible. I have faced her twice over and...Dealt with every insanity, every mad situation, her and Dante and Lily and just...Why? Why let Marcus have the first crack at Blyss at the agreement that I immediately get her after?
The West Indian Whirlwind looks down at his wrists. Until now he’s been sitting backstage at the Ricoh Coliseum. Within a few moments, his eyes close and the Trinidadian wrestler breathes in...And then simply exhales.
Sparrow: Because...Win-win. If Marcus succeeds and takes that title from her brethren? ...I’m perfectly fine with facing Blyss in a match and knocking she further back from getting a rematch. If Marcus doesn’t remove that title from her? Then I will be right there, waiting in the wings for her. See I’m...Tired. I had...A lot in dealing with Lily. Having your career threatened week to week...
For a few moments, Sparrow is quiet, contemplative. His fingers intertwine and form together in his lap. He stares down at the ground, trying to find the words he can put together. For the first time in a while, he doesn’t quite have them together. His mouth opens and then closes.
It takes him a minute.
Sparrow: ...Almost too much. It was almost too much. Maybe that would make her happy to hear it, wherever the fuck she is. Maybe that gives Blyss or Dante some kinda ill bit of joy but that...All of that? That took a lot out of me. My time. My patience. Months, maybe years off my career. Would I do it again? Grab that mic and march out and deal with every week, every show, and end up fired all over again and the shortest Freedom championship reign in history? Gone now though ain’t? Well...
A small, sad if not amused smile.
Sparrow: Of course, I would. Every single time, every single day, I wouldn’t make any other choice on any other day, or month for anything. Everything I did, I wouldn’t have any shame to do so again. Maybe I’m feelin’ a little down because Bri, Emery, Ant, and TJ...Heh. BEAT. Team BEAT...BEAT Squad...Maybe I’s a little down because my squad’s all together and I don’t get to roll with ‘em...But that’s life. Lemme focus on The Wrestling right now.
The West Indian Whirlwind’s head pops up and he stares forward.
Sparrow: How many championships you ever won Brendan? I know you and Fowler traveled up and down this industry collectin’ tag gold like ain’t no tomorrow. I know that you’ve won many singles gold by yourself. How many moments are burned, cemented into the minds of others? How many have you tested and felt tested by? Where are you right now with this match? Where’s your head at? Bana, you wanna know somethin’? I don’t even know where my own is right now. I get in these moods I suspect. I look at a match and on paper, it is going to be one of the best in my career. You and me should make a banger but...I dunno how that’s supposed ot make me feel. So many months of insanity and fighting and getting beat on and expecting the worst from every single opponent...
Sparrow paused.
Sparrow: ...And...And a match with you, a match with The Kraken. The Wrestling. A champion, the formerly Freedom U.S. Champion turned Empire Pro Canadian Champion. I’m so in shock ABOUT having a clean, pure match that I don’t even know how to feel about it.
He slowly stood up, leaving his commentary at that.
Sparrow: It’s probably insane to everyone and their mother...To step aside even if I’m very obviously owed a fair shake, an actual one-on-one championship match with Blyss. I mean...I did pin her again in that fun little match that saw Lily as far from any power as possible. I have faced her twice over and...Dealt with every insanity, every mad situation, her and Dante and Lily and just...Why? Why let Marcus have the first crack at Blyss at the agreement that I immediately get her after?
The West Indian Whirlwind looks down at his wrists. Until now he’s been sitting backstage at the Ricoh Coliseum. Within a few moments, his eyes close and the Trinidadian wrestler breathes in...And then simply exhales.
Sparrow: Because...Win-win. If Marcus succeeds and takes that title from her brethren? ...I’m perfectly fine with facing Blyss in a match and knocking she further back from getting a rematch. If Marcus doesn’t remove that title from her? Then I will be right there, waiting in the wings for her. See I’m...Tired. I had...A lot in dealing with Lily. Having your career threatened week to week...
For a few moments, Sparrow is quiet, contemplative. His fingers intertwine and form together in his lap. He stares down at the ground, trying to find the words he can put together. For the first time in a while, he doesn’t quite have them together. His mouth opens and then closes.
It takes him a minute.
Sparrow: ...Almost too much. It was almost too much. Maybe that would make her happy to hear it, wherever the fuck she is. Maybe that gives Blyss or Dante some kinda ill bit of joy but that...All of that? That took a lot out of me. My time. My patience. Months, maybe years off my career. Would I do it again? Grab that mic and march out and deal with every week, every show, and end up fired all over again and the shortest Freedom championship reign in history? Gone now though ain’t? Well...
A small, sad if not amused smile.
Sparrow: Of course, I would. Every single time, every single day, I wouldn’t make any other choice on any other day, or month for anything. Everything I did, I wouldn’t have any shame to do so again. Maybe I’m feelin’ a little down because Bri, Emery, Ant, and TJ...Heh. BEAT. Team BEAT...BEAT Squad...Maybe I’s a little down because my squad’s all together and I don’t get to roll with ‘em...But that’s life. Lemme focus on The Wrestling right now.
The West Indian Whirlwind’s head pops up and he stares forward.
Sparrow: How many championships you ever won Brendan? I know you and Fowler traveled up and down this industry collectin’ tag gold like ain’t no tomorrow. I know that you’ve won many singles gold by yourself. How many moments are burned, cemented into the minds of others? How many have you tested and felt tested by? Where are you right now with this match? Where’s your head at? Bana, you wanna know somethin’? I don’t even know where my own is right now. I get in these moods I suspect. I look at a match and on paper, it is going to be one of the best in my career. You and me should make a banger but...I dunno how that’s supposed ot make me feel. So many months of insanity and fighting and getting beat on and expecting the worst from every single opponent...
Sparrow paused.
Sparrow: ...And...And a match with you, a match with The Kraken. The Wrestling. A champion, the formerly Freedom U.S. Champion turned Empire Pro Canadian Champion. I’m so in shock ABOUT having a clean, pure match that I don’t even know how to feel about it.
He slowly stood up, leaving his commentary at that.
MATCH SIX: NOIR CHAMPIONSHIP
Rayven Hardy vs Xavier Laroux
Rayven Hardy vs Xavier Laroux
| RECAP - This match was competitive in the beginning, with Rayven and Xavier trading holds and counters back and forth. The two knew each other well and it showed. - The match soon devolved though, as Xavier kept yelling at Robb Hardy, who was sitting ringside. Robb was minding his business and he didn’t even give X a reaction. Eventually, Xavier left the ring and walked up to Robb, furious that he wouldn’t answer any questions he yelled at him. He started to get in Robb’s face but Rayven grabbed Xavier and whipped him into the corner post of the ring head first! - X was dazed and Rayven put him back in the ring before she hit the top rope and nailed her Skittle Star Press! She pinned and got the three count and the win, successfully defending her Noir Championship for the first time. WINNER Rayven Hardy METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 12:22 FINISHING MOVE Skittle Star Press POST MATCH The match was over and Robb Hardy entered the ring and handed his daughter the Noir Championship. Rayven took it and raised it in the air. Xavier was furious now and he charged Robb! He speared him down to the ground and he started to throw lefts and rights but Robb didn’t fight back. Rayven pulled Xavier off but he hit her with a spinning back elbow to the head! Ray was dazed and Xavier nailed her with Narcoterrorism (Bicycle Knee Strike)!!! Robb was up now and he just saw what happened and now? Now Robb was furious. How dare Xavier knock out his daughter in front of him in a now non-match setting. Robb couldn’t control his temper anymore and when X turned, Robb grabbed him and he nailed him with Pump the Breaks (STO backbreaker followed by a faceplant). The fans… Cheered? But Robb knew what he did was wrong. He shook his head in disappointment, mouthing the words, ‘It wasn’t supposed to be like this.’ He waved X off before he helped Rayven up to her feet. The two then exited the ring and headed backstage. Xavier soon recovered in the ring and he told the crowd that he was right the entire time. Robb is out to get him. |
SEGMENT
The camera cuts backstage to Marcus and Stella once again in the locker room.
Stella Winters: I thought it was a joke! There’s absolutely no way I’m letting you go down there alone.
Marcus Black: I’ll be fine, Stella. Blyss doesn’t like to lose, and neither do I. If you being back here means she can focus and we can win this, then so be it.
Stella Winters: You really think Blyss is just gonna be all like "well Stella's not here so I guess I'll put my psycho bitch on hold for a bit?" I get that you wanna trust in her ego, but that's the thing with her: you can't trust /anything./ The same shit happened with Dante, but I was there to have your back. And she's worse than him!
Marcus merely nods in agreement before calmly responding.
Marcus Black: More devious, perhaps more cutthroat, but she's also smarter than Dante. She knows her power is far less than what it was and she can't afford any setback going into our title match. It's too much risk for her. Besides, I’m not going to give her any excuse. Not in this match, not in any match. I will show that I’m a better professional than her. She /will/ get what’s coming to her, but not tonight. That said, once that end bell rings… feel free to make an appearance.
Stella has a pained look in her face before letting out a massive sigh.
Stella Winters: Fucking fiiiiiine. I still think this is dumb and when she betrays you I am going to drown you in I told you so's. But fine. But the second that match ends I'm making a beeline for that ring.
Marcus smiles at her.
Marcus Black: Noted.
With that the camera zooms out before cutting away.
The camera cuts backstage to Marcus and Stella once again in the locker room.
Stella Winters: I thought it was a joke! There’s absolutely no way I’m letting you go down there alone.
Marcus Black: I’ll be fine, Stella. Blyss doesn’t like to lose, and neither do I. If you being back here means she can focus and we can win this, then so be it.
Stella Winters: You really think Blyss is just gonna be all like "well Stella's not here so I guess I'll put my psycho bitch on hold for a bit?" I get that you wanna trust in her ego, but that's the thing with her: you can't trust /anything./ The same shit happened with Dante, but I was there to have your back. And she's worse than him!
Marcus merely nods in agreement before calmly responding.
Marcus Black: More devious, perhaps more cutthroat, but she's also smarter than Dante. She knows her power is far less than what it was and she can't afford any setback going into our title match. It's too much risk for her. Besides, I’m not going to give her any excuse. Not in this match, not in any match. I will show that I’m a better professional than her. She /will/ get what’s coming to her, but not tonight. That said, once that end bell rings… feel free to make an appearance.
Stella has a pained look in her face before letting out a massive sigh.
Stella Winters: Fucking fiiiiiine. I still think this is dumb and when she betrays you I am going to drown you in I told you so's. But fine. But the second that match ends I'm making a beeline for that ring.
Marcus smiles at her.
Marcus Black: Noted.
With that the camera zooms out before cutting away.
HEADLINE: NON-TITLE
Sparrow vs Brendan Samuels
Sparrow vs Brendan Samuels
| RECAP - This match was definitely one of the highlights of the night. Sparrow versus Brendan Samuels. Two men who proudly represented the Freedom brand with pride, now fighting one on one here on Empire. Both had a chip on their shoulder, Brendan wanting to rep Canada and still represent the US fan, and Sparrow wanting to prove why he should’ve been the number one pick. - The two fought back and forth, Brendan using his size and technical abilities to keep the speedy Sparrow down early in the match, not letting him use those deadly legs of his. - Only a few minutes into the match, it looked as if Brendan was going to end it with a Mac Lir (Millennium Suplex) but Sparrow somehow wiggled free! This gave him the opening he was looking for and he hit Leaf Hurricane (Counter Scorpion Kick followed by a Pele Kick)! He pinned but Samuels kicked out. - The two put on quite the banger of a match. Every time Sparrow went for one of his Notorious K.I.C.K. finishes though, Samuels had the wherewithal to roll out of the way. Sparrow hit the ropes but when he came back, Brendan took him out with Poseidon’s Trident - Pointed Double Elbow Drop! He pinned but NOOOO! Sparrow kicked out! These two men are putting it all out there. - Samuels picked Sparrow up and whipped him to the ropes and when he came back, Sparrow leaped up and SUNSET FLIP OUT OF NOWHERE! He held her arms tight in a waist lock as he had Brendan in a sitout pin! The referee counted to three and Brendan kicked out right after the three count. Sparrow pulled off the win! The fans cheered wildly as the two men stood to their feet. Brendan stared Sparrow down for a moment before extending his hand and the two men shook hands. WINNER Sparrow METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 16:22 FINISHING MOVE Sunset Flip |
SEGMENT
Silence.
Then BAM!
Heavy breathing…
A side profile shot of Blyss Lockhart fades in unsteadily, her long red hair covering most of her face before she lashes out at the blank wall with a chain link. Then she throws it down on the floor with an angry cry before dropping to her knees. The same chain link she’s been carrying since that fateful night when Marcus Black broken the steel cage door open with his bare hands to stop her and Dante Locke from punishing Sparrow further in an unjust 2-on-1 assault.
Afterwards, she had snatched up the broken chain that was supposed to lock the door. For some reason it had called out to her and she remembers staring down at it, as if waiting for something to happen. Just like she is now, kneeling quietly before it like it holds some sort of power over her. She snarls.
The power of what? Something she clearly does not want to admit. In fact, she would rather die than say it. And she knows that’s something Marcus and Stella Winters have been trying so hard to get her to do. Just doing their damndest to pry it out of her like a spit of poison from her body.
The longer she stares at the chain link, the tighter she clenches her jaw. And the bigger the venom grows inside to reach every part of her till she is no longer.
The image of Dante lying there broken in the hands of Marcus at Battle of Symphony 2 shoves itself back in her head and she grabs the chain link, only to swing it down again and again to beat the floor. Her heart races, her breathing escalates.
But the floor doesn’t budge nor hurt. If Marcus is so immovable, then what chance does she have against him with her Empire championship on the line?
Then the faces of Skylar Rayner and Anastasia Starling appear in her mind’s eye and she screams. ANOTHER FUCKING BIRD!!! But rage doesn’t empty out, no matter how much and how long she tries. It just keeps growing.
Out of breath though, she slowly swivels her head around towards the camera. Her eyes look black in the shadow. On all fours before rising to her feet, her body contorts and stretches. With the Empire championship on her right shoulder and the chain link wrapped around her left hand, she gives the camera the evil eye before turning her back to it and walking away in the opposite direction.
No longer is the champion with her head up high and shoulders squared. Instead, her face is lowered with her chin pressed to the title face plate and shoulders hunched with her arms hugging it, just holding on for dear life.
If she doesn’t have Marcus with her against Skylar and Anastasia in this match tonight nor Dante and Lily Callaghan on her side, at least she has her Empire championship. She can absolutely count on that.
Silence.
Then BAM!
Heavy breathing…
A side profile shot of Blyss Lockhart fades in unsteadily, her long red hair covering most of her face before she lashes out at the blank wall with a chain link. Then she throws it down on the floor with an angry cry before dropping to her knees. The same chain link she’s been carrying since that fateful night when Marcus Black broken the steel cage door open with his bare hands to stop her and Dante Locke from punishing Sparrow further in an unjust 2-on-1 assault.
Afterwards, she had snatched up the broken chain that was supposed to lock the door. For some reason it had called out to her and she remembers staring down at it, as if waiting for something to happen. Just like she is now, kneeling quietly before it like it holds some sort of power over her. She snarls.
The power of what? Something she clearly does not want to admit. In fact, she would rather die than say it. And she knows that’s something Marcus and Stella Winters have been trying so hard to get her to do. Just doing their damndest to pry it out of her like a spit of poison from her body.
The longer she stares at the chain link, the tighter she clenches her jaw. And the bigger the venom grows inside to reach every part of her till she is no longer.
The image of Dante lying there broken in the hands of Marcus at Battle of Symphony 2 shoves itself back in her head and she grabs the chain link, only to swing it down again and again to beat the floor. Her heart races, her breathing escalates.
But the floor doesn’t budge nor hurt. If Marcus is so immovable, then what chance does she have against him with her Empire championship on the line?
Then the faces of Skylar Rayner and Anastasia Starling appear in her mind’s eye and she screams. ANOTHER FUCKING BIRD!!! But rage doesn’t empty out, no matter how much and how long she tries. It just keeps growing.
Out of breath though, she slowly swivels her head around towards the camera. Her eyes look black in the shadow. On all fours before rising to her feet, her body contorts and stretches. With the Empire championship on her right shoulder and the chain link wrapped around her left hand, she gives the camera the evil eye before turning her back to it and walking away in the opposite direction.
No longer is the champion with her head up high and shoulders squared. Instead, her face is lowered with her chin pressed to the title face plate and shoulders hunched with her arms hugging it, just holding on for dear life.
If she doesn’t have Marcus with her against Skylar and Anastasia in this match tonight nor Dante and Lily Callaghan on her side, at least she has her Empire championship. She can absolutely count on that.
MAIN EVENT: TAG
Blyss Lockhart & Marcus Black vs Anastasia Starling & Skylar Rayner
Blyss Lockhart & Marcus Black vs Anastasia Starling & Skylar Rayner
| RECAP - Before the match could start, it’s announced by the ring announcer that the match has been changed to a tornado tag for reasons to be revealed at a later show. This was right up Ana and Skylar’s ally though, as they are the UG Tornado Tag Champs. Marcus looked at Blyss with wary eyes and when the bell rang, Blyss rolled out of the ring and hopped over the barricade. She ordered Marcus to fight Anastasia and Skylar on his own. - This distraction proved costly for Marcus as Ana and Sky both did a shoulder block to each of his legs, taking the monster of a man down! They then grabbed him and hit a double DDT! Blyss pointed and laughed from outside of the barricade but Robb Hardy was not happy about it as he marched down the entrance ramp. - Robb ordered Blyss to get in the ring but she refused, proclaiming that he was sabotaging her. Annoyed, Robb then grabbed Blyss by the hair and pulled her over the barricade, much to the delight of the fans! Hardy then then threw Blyss under the bottom rope and into the ring! The referee chose not to call for a DQ, as, well, Robb is the general manager of Empire Pro. Blyss complained to the referee, saying that she was assaulted by Robb! The referee ignored it but Skylar and Anastasia now had their eyes set on Blyss! - Blyss backed away slowly, telling Sky and Ana to talk about this with her. Turning their attention away from Marcus was a mistake though and the number one pick stalked over both of them with fury in his eyes and the fans cheered loudly. Black took out Rayner with Depth Charge (High Impact Lariat)! He turned his attention to Anastasia now and she hit him with a superkick, which stunned him for a moment. But it wasn’t long and when she tried to charge him, he countered with a spinebuster that made a sickening thud. - Marcus then turned his attention to Blyss. He wasn’t happy with her actions so far and he let her know it before telling her let’s get this win and move on. Blyss smiled and nodded before she sucker punched Marcus right in the jaw! The crowd gasped as Black grabbed his jaw and shook his head, telling Blyss she just made a huge mistake. Lockhart then turned tail and RAN! - She rolled out of the ring and then hopped the barricade but Marcus hopped over the barricade and chased after her, the cheap shot from Blyss making him forget about the match and he just wanted to finally get his hands on her. The referee then counted to ten and Anastasia and Skylar won via countout. WINNER Anastasia Starling & Skylar Rayner METHOD Countout MATCH LENGTH 10:43 FINISHING MOVE N/A POST MATCH The video feed cut to the backstage area in the parking lot of the arena of the Ricoh Coliseum. Blyss was scrambling, trying to open the door to several cars, any place she could hide. But walking behind her, gaining ground, was none other than The Kraken, Marcus Black, and he was on a mission to destroy her. Blyss started to run by a line of cars. Marcus almost had caught up by then one of the cars he started to pass by, a black Honda, was still running and it pulled forward fast! The car slammed into Marcus, lifting him up in the air and slamming him on the windshield, cracking it before he fell off to the right side of the car. The car then pulled forward to the left, catching up to Blyss who turned and started to cackle. The door to the car opened up and who appeared from inside of it!? None other than Dante Locke!!! He looked at Marcus, who got up on his feet! Dante Locke: OH SHIT! Let’s go! Let’s go!!! Black was furious as there was a fire burning in his eyes like never before. Blyss’ hand fumbled with the door handle before she swung it open and she got in the car as Marcus, who was limping, pushed back the pain and he started to run. Which looked scary as hell, like that scene in Terminator 2 when the T-1000 got up and started to chase the car. Dante and Blyss peeled out in the car and Marcus knew that they had gotten away. He yelled out, “FUCK!” before he bent down and grabbed at his left side of his body that took the brunt of the hit. Backstage staff and the medical team showed up to check on him but he waved them off. Stella ran up to him and she was absolutely furious, calling Blyss a stupid cunt and that is how we ended the return of the Empire. |