Post by Robb (Owner) on Jul 26, 2022 1:43:00 GMT -8
Liberty Pro Presents...
Episode Seventy-Eight of Liberation
Live from the Callaghan Warehouse, Brooklyn NY
On Friday, July 22nd, 2022
Episode Seventy-Eight of Liberation
Live from the Callaghan Warehouse, Brooklyn NY
On Friday, July 22nd, 2022
MATCH ONE: SINGLES
Ace Sky vs Andrew Wilkow
Ace Sky vs Andrew Wilkow
| RECAP Not much happened in this one, as Wilkow attacked Ace on his way to the ring. The Appalachian Mountain Monster was not playing around in this one and he threw around the much smaller Ace like a rag doll. Ace never stood a chance thanks to the sneak attack during his entrance, and WIkow ended him with Country Roads (Jackknife Powerbomb)! WINNER Andrew Wilkow METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 3:11 FINISHING MOVE Country Roads |
BACKSTAGE
With his ear headphones on and eyes closed, Lukas York bobbed his head to the music as he sat on a steel chair. He had his hands clasped together under his chin, his back hunched over. Glinting in the room light was that silver wedding band of his, which he nervously touched every now and then. His eyebrows were knitted closely together and his lips pursed tight as if concentrating very hard on the music that’s no doubt filled his head. As the music died down, he opened his eyes and lowered the headphones to his neck. His posture remained though, and this time his focus was on the camera before him.
Lukas York: Excuse my silence, Kendrick. Ever since our match was announced, I know you’ve been expecting to hear from me. Either a reaction to getting a one-on-one payback with you or some sort of counter to your “this is gonna be a good” tweet that would maybe lead to a bit of Twitter exchange and match hype. Something, anything.
He scoffed with a slight smirk.
Lukas York: But nada. Nothing from me.
He shrugged.
Lukas York: Why? I’m getting used to this life again. It’s been a while. And to be honest, I’ve always been bad at the out of the ring stuff. I’m not the most comfortable talking myself up or promoting matches and shows. Never been champion or the face of a company. No practice there. It’s just who I am.
The expression on his face became more serious.
Lukas York: But don’t mistake that as weakness. I’m not afraid to admit all that and I sure as hell am not afraid to work on them. Soon enough, I’ll reach there. What’s more important though is what I do in the ring and you probably feel the same way. Besides seeing you beg for another shot at the Anarchy championship, I don’t see you do anything else outside the ring. It’s like without the title, you’re nothing. Even for our match, you wished that it was under Anarchy rules. Is being Anarchy champion your only identity? Which is super ironic because I remember studying your work but hardcore matches are listed as your disliked match type. Have you had too many chair shots to the head, guy?
His right hand balled up into a fist.
Lukas York: And speaking of chair shots, I’d be lying if I said I’m not tempted to pay you back with one or two tonight.
He tried to relax his hands.
Lukas York: I can take a loss. I can take a difficult fight with a better opponent. Someone with way more experience like you, right, Kendrick? But what I can’t take, what I refuse to let slide is being taken advantage of by entitled fucks like you. I wanna say maybe in your big head, I’m barely a blip because the real target’s Nina so you attacked me just to fuck with her, but you’re so obsessed with becoming 6-time champion or whatever that you don’t know what the hell’s even going on anymore. That you think I’m the champ and not her. On top that, you’ve also got yourself so convinced you’re what, the definition of this Anarchy division, that you forget the way things actually work is to earn your way into the title picture. To work for that challenger spot. And since you’re still not the No. 1 contender for the Anarchy championship today, it proves that your words are bullshit. And worse still, the fact that you’re facing me tonight shows that you’re not even close to it. Nah, Jace Mitchell beat you to it.
That brought another smirk to his face now.
Lukas York: You’re so confused your story is convoluted. Your obsession’s blinded you, you don’t know what you’re aiming at anymore. Maybe you need a vacation, Kendrick. That or a good self-reflection before you hurt yourself.
He stood up and glanced down on the steel chair. There’s hesitation in him as he reached to pick it up. But he folded it up anyway and tucked it under his arm. He looked around as if for the all-clear before walking out of frame.
With his ear headphones on and eyes closed, Lukas York bobbed his head to the music as he sat on a steel chair. He had his hands clasped together under his chin, his back hunched over. Glinting in the room light was that silver wedding band of his, which he nervously touched every now and then. His eyebrows were knitted closely together and his lips pursed tight as if concentrating very hard on the music that’s no doubt filled his head. As the music died down, he opened his eyes and lowered the headphones to his neck. His posture remained though, and this time his focus was on the camera before him.
Lukas York: Excuse my silence, Kendrick. Ever since our match was announced, I know you’ve been expecting to hear from me. Either a reaction to getting a one-on-one payback with you or some sort of counter to your “this is gonna be a good” tweet that would maybe lead to a bit of Twitter exchange and match hype. Something, anything.
He scoffed with a slight smirk.
Lukas York: But nada. Nothing from me.
He shrugged.
Lukas York: Why? I’m getting used to this life again. It’s been a while. And to be honest, I’ve always been bad at the out of the ring stuff. I’m not the most comfortable talking myself up or promoting matches and shows. Never been champion or the face of a company. No practice there. It’s just who I am.
The expression on his face became more serious.
Lukas York: But don’t mistake that as weakness. I’m not afraid to admit all that and I sure as hell am not afraid to work on them. Soon enough, I’ll reach there. What’s more important though is what I do in the ring and you probably feel the same way. Besides seeing you beg for another shot at the Anarchy championship, I don’t see you do anything else outside the ring. It’s like without the title, you’re nothing. Even for our match, you wished that it was under Anarchy rules. Is being Anarchy champion your only identity? Which is super ironic because I remember studying your work but hardcore matches are listed as your disliked match type. Have you had too many chair shots to the head, guy?
His right hand balled up into a fist.
Lukas York: And speaking of chair shots, I’d be lying if I said I’m not tempted to pay you back with one or two tonight.
He tried to relax his hands.
Lukas York: I can take a loss. I can take a difficult fight with a better opponent. Someone with way more experience like you, right, Kendrick? But what I can’t take, what I refuse to let slide is being taken advantage of by entitled fucks like you. I wanna say maybe in your big head, I’m barely a blip because the real target’s Nina so you attacked me just to fuck with her, but you’re so obsessed with becoming 6-time champion or whatever that you don’t know what the hell’s even going on anymore. That you think I’m the champ and not her. On top that, you’ve also got yourself so convinced you’re what, the definition of this Anarchy division, that you forget the way things actually work is to earn your way into the title picture. To work for that challenger spot. And since you’re still not the No. 1 contender for the Anarchy championship today, it proves that your words are bullshit. And worse still, the fact that you’re facing me tonight shows that you’re not even close to it. Nah, Jace Mitchell beat you to it.
That brought another smirk to his face now.
Lukas York: You’re so confused your story is convoluted. Your obsession’s blinded you, you don’t know what you’re aiming at anymore. Maybe you need a vacation, Kendrick. That or a good self-reflection before you hurt yourself.
He stood up and glanced down on the steel chair. There’s hesitation in him as he reached to pick it up. But he folded it up anyway and tucked it under his arm. He looked around as if for the all-clear before walking out of frame.
PREVIOUSLY RECORDED
Kendrick is seen standing on a podium with a microphone in front of him. He clears his throat a bit as he looks down as if he has a statement prepared.
KENDRICK KROSS: This past show was something that had been coming for a long time. Yes, I hadn’t been involved in the Anarchy division. Watching it though as I was doing other things it was beginning to make me cringe. The anarchy division needs rejuvenating. It needs to be restored to its former glory and I, Kendrick Kross is the perfect person for this restoration and rejuvenation of it.
Kendrick clears his throat and takes a drink of water from a cup that is sitting on the podium.
KENDRICK KROSS: The Anarchy Division is about that…anarchy. But it’s become something that is lame. And being led by Nina…it’s sad. My road to its rejuvenation though starts tonight with the man I attacked, Lukas York. Tonight I prove why the statement I made isn’t a false statement. What I say about this division is true.
A smirk crosses Kendrick’s face as he keeps his gaze straight forward.
KENDRICK KROSS: Tonight Lukas, you will truly find out and experience what it’s like going up against the face of this division, the greatest Anarchy Champion to ever step foot in a LPW ring. You along with everyone else think you have this division where it should be. You all have been an embarrassment to this once great division. I will make this division back to what it should be.
Kendrick steps down from the podium.
NARRATOR: THIS HAS BEEN YOUR WEEKLY PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT BROUGHT TO YOU IN PART BY KENDRICK KROSS AND THE TEARS OF LUKAS YORK
Kendrick is seen standing on a podium with a microphone in front of him. He clears his throat a bit as he looks down as if he has a statement prepared.
KENDRICK KROSS: This past show was something that had been coming for a long time. Yes, I hadn’t been involved in the Anarchy division. Watching it though as I was doing other things it was beginning to make me cringe. The anarchy division needs rejuvenating. It needs to be restored to its former glory and I, Kendrick Kross is the perfect person for this restoration and rejuvenation of it.
Kendrick clears his throat and takes a drink of water from a cup that is sitting on the podium.
KENDRICK KROSS: The Anarchy Division is about that…anarchy. But it’s become something that is lame. And being led by Nina…it’s sad. My road to its rejuvenation though starts tonight with the man I attacked, Lukas York. Tonight I prove why the statement I made isn’t a false statement. What I say about this division is true.
A smirk crosses Kendrick’s face as he keeps his gaze straight forward.
KENDRICK KROSS: Tonight Lukas, you will truly find out and experience what it’s like going up against the face of this division, the greatest Anarchy Champion to ever step foot in a LPW ring. You along with everyone else think you have this division where it should be. You all have been an embarrassment to this once great division. I will make this division back to what it should be.
Kendrick steps down from the podium.
NARRATOR: THIS HAS BEEN YOUR WEEKLY PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT BROUGHT TO YOU IN PART BY KENDRICK KROSS AND THE TEARS OF LUKAS YORK
MATCH TWO: ANARCHY RULEZ
Lukas York vs Kendrick Kross
Lukas York vs Kendrick Kross
| RECAP Lukas and Kendrick both were vying for a shot for the Anarchy Championship against Nina and that was clear. The two went back and forth, and the match soon ended up outside of the ring. Both men hit each other with a plethora of weapons, Kendrick soon busting Lukas open with a barbed wire 2x4! York was on the ropes here. Sophie York, Lukas’ wife, yelled from the front row, telling him to get up! Kendrick went over and started to jaw back and forth with Sophie until he SLAPPED HER!? This infuriated Lukas as he just came to and saw it happen. He charged and took Kendrick out with The Final Bow - Spear (desperate finisher) right through the barricade! Lukas pinned Kross and the referee made the count to three. When the bell rang, Lukas checked on Sophie but she was alright and the two left two the backstage area together. WINNER Lukas York METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 9:32 FINISHING MOVE The Final Bow |
BACKSTAGE
Chloe Collins was wheeling herself through the halls, talking with Madeline Mason, newly returned to Liberty after a brief job with Revolver.
Chloe Collins: “Stay focused.”
Madeline Mason: “I have things under control.”
Chloe Collins: “Where are we with the investigation?”
Jackal shakes her head.
Madeline Mason: “Callaghan is keeping tight-lipped about it. He knows something, I’m just unsure what.”
Chloe Collins: “And Matthews?”
Madeline Mason: “We’ve got the analysts looking at his accounts, but these things take time. They’re looking for any sorts of irregularities.”
Chloe Collins: “Go through them with a fine-toothed comb. He’s a genius, he’s not going to leave something out in the open unless he wants us to find it.”
They reach the locker room door. Mason pauses before entering.
Madeline Mason: “Do you think we can beat him?”
Chloe sighs.
Chloe Collins: “It’s… difficult. But we have resources. And we’ve got contacts that are helping to do the things we can’t.”
She pauses.
Chloe Collins: “Speaking of which, were you able to-”
Jackal nods.
Madeline Mason: “Yeah, he sent over whatever he could. It’s not much, you know they don’t like sharing all their cards.”
Chloe Collins: “Send it to me, and get a copy to Reaper. He may have use of it for the Valiant job.”
Madeline nods.
Chloe Collins: “And tonight? You’re ready?”
Madeline cracks her knuckles and rolls her shoulders.
Madeline Mason: “I need to be. I haven’t had a chance to fight in a while. I’m looking forward to it.”
Chloe Collins: “The stakes are high… this could certainly make your job easier if you get your hands on gold.”
Mason takes a deep breath.
Madeline Mason: “Both Hardy and Night have made it very clear that they don’t want us around. SABER spooks them. But they aren’t going to fire somebody who’s holding one of their championships… yeah, winning this could definitely give me a little breathing room around here.”
Chloe Collins: “And that’ll make your investigation that much easier.”
Mason nods.
Madeline Mason: “Smith is up first… time to get to work.”
Chloe Collins was wheeling herself through the halls, talking with Madeline Mason, newly returned to Liberty after a brief job with Revolver.
Chloe Collins: “Stay focused.”
Madeline Mason: “I have things under control.”
Chloe Collins: “Where are we with the investigation?”
Jackal shakes her head.
Madeline Mason: “Callaghan is keeping tight-lipped about it. He knows something, I’m just unsure what.”
Chloe Collins: “And Matthews?”
Madeline Mason: “We’ve got the analysts looking at his accounts, but these things take time. They’re looking for any sorts of irregularities.”
Chloe Collins: “Go through them with a fine-toothed comb. He’s a genius, he’s not going to leave something out in the open unless he wants us to find it.”
They reach the locker room door. Mason pauses before entering.
Madeline Mason: “Do you think we can beat him?”
Chloe sighs.
Chloe Collins: “It’s… difficult. But we have resources. And we’ve got contacts that are helping to do the things we can’t.”
She pauses.
Chloe Collins: “Speaking of which, were you able to-”
Jackal nods.
Madeline Mason: “Yeah, he sent over whatever he could. It’s not much, you know they don’t like sharing all their cards.”
Chloe Collins: “Send it to me, and get a copy to Reaper. He may have use of it for the Valiant job.”
Madeline nods.
Chloe Collins: “And tonight? You’re ready?”
Madeline cracks her knuckles and rolls her shoulders.
Madeline Mason: “I need to be. I haven’t had a chance to fight in a while. I’m looking forward to it.”
Chloe Collins: “The stakes are high… this could certainly make your job easier if you get your hands on gold.”
Mason takes a deep breath.
Madeline Mason: “Both Hardy and Night have made it very clear that they don’t want us around. SABER spooks them. But they aren’t going to fire somebody who’s holding one of their championships… yeah, winning this could definitely give me a little breathing room around here.”
Chloe Collins: “And that’ll make your investigation that much easier.”
Mason nods.
Madeline Mason: “Smith is up first… time to get to work.”
BACKSTAGE
Talking to Tim Anderson, Melissa Reeves is backstage ahead of her match later tonight.
Melissa Reeves:
Chase Romano, this isn’t our first dance here is it? Last time, back at Liberation 71, we saw Wade Manson run out and commit suicide via stupidity, smacking himself in the head with his chair.
She scoffs.
Melissa Reeves:
Now you claimed, and have maintained, that was nothing to do with you. Perhaps. Regardless, it was the start of a bit of a trend, with people targeting me to try and make themselves a name here. Now, do I blame them? No. Will it work? No.
A shrug.
Melissa Reeves:
If anyone wants to face me, all they have to do is ask. Instead we have cowards, sad little shits who sit at home and plot how to make a one off statement to try and make a name. People who ultimately will always fall against me, but know that it’ll grant them a boost to their fame - or infamy. Guess that makes me a bit of a kingmaker here in Liberty, yeah? Anyone want to dispute that?
Nothing.
Melissa Reeves:
Thought not. So Chase, back to you, tonight we’ll go again and tonight there better not be any BS this time. For your sake.
And with that she leaves, Tim having not managed to get a single word in that entire time.
Talking to Tim Anderson, Melissa Reeves is backstage ahead of her match later tonight.
Melissa Reeves:
Chase Romano, this isn’t our first dance here is it? Last time, back at Liberation 71, we saw Wade Manson run out and commit suicide via stupidity, smacking himself in the head with his chair.
She scoffs.
Melissa Reeves:
Now you claimed, and have maintained, that was nothing to do with you. Perhaps. Regardless, it was the start of a bit of a trend, with people targeting me to try and make themselves a name here. Now, do I blame them? No. Will it work? No.
A shrug.
Melissa Reeves:
If anyone wants to face me, all they have to do is ask. Instead we have cowards, sad little shits who sit at home and plot how to make a one off statement to try and make a name. People who ultimately will always fall against me, but know that it’ll grant them a boost to their fame - or infamy. Guess that makes me a bit of a kingmaker here in Liberty, yeah? Anyone want to dispute that?
Nothing.
Melissa Reeves:
Thought not. So Chase, back to you, tonight we’ll go again and tonight there better not be any BS this time. For your sake.
And with that she leaves, Tim having not managed to get a single word in that entire time.
MATCH THREE: LIBERTY #1 CONTENDER TOURNEY
Jackal vs Avery Smith
Jackal vs Avery Smith
| RECAP The first match for the #1 contendership tournament was here and it was two women with differing styles. Avery used her speed and athleticism to keep Jackal at bay. She knew that if Jackal got her hands on her, it could be the end. Avery tried to win with a victory roll and other sneaky roll ups but Jackal kicked out every time. Jackal soon hits Avery with The Regiment (Tilt-a-whirl side slam) and she advances. WINNER Jackal METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 4:11 FINISHING MOVE The Regiment (Tilt-a-whirl side slam) |
BACKSTAGE
We cut to a shot of the Gotham Championship now, the camera detailing every ornate carving and feature emblazoned in the metal before it zooms out to reveal its holder - Markus FK.
MARKUS FK: What a journey it’s been. My first few months were a torrid time, filled with Ant and I getting jumped from behind, attacked cheaply, suffering at the hands of those who love to cut corners time and time again with nothing being done to stop them.
He chuckles, shaking his head as he recalls the beginning of his time in Liberty Pro.
MARKUS FK: But there were a few shining lights in that darkness. Those that actually care about the integrity of this business. My wife is the prime example, in my opinion, but the former holder of this belt, BLC is another one, and my opponent tonight? She’s another. Tonight, Emery, it’s going to be an honour to wrestle you.
Markus nods, his large hand resting on his championship belt, strapped around his large waist - already in his ring gear for their match later tonight.
MARKUS FK: That doesn’t mean I’ll go easy on you, though. You’ve been on your own journey, many in this industry see you as a legend, and that’s a feather in my cap that I want badly. The whole time I’ve been here I’ve felt like a guy with a chip on my shoulder, trying to shake off that tag team guy image. Beating Bri was huge for that, winning this belt was massive, and beating you, Em, will be monumental. You better bring everything you’ve got, like I know you will, because I’m going to try to take your head off. Ant said I have to put it back on when I’m done, though.
The Swiss flashes a cheeky, handsome grin, a small chuckle escaping his lips after he makes the joke, a serious demeanour eventually returning as he moves on.
MARKUS FK: That’s not all I have to say, though. Because tonight there’s a match of great interest to me, consisting of two men who interest me little. Atticus Cassian versus Wade Manson to determine who’ll be the number one contender for this beautiful baby right here.
Markus pats the face of the belt, letting that linger for a moment.
MARKUS FK: I’m sure the annoying little lady holding Atticus’ leash won’t be too far behind either, and I’m certain she’ll try to make her mark in some way. Now I’ve got history with both of these men. Somehow that idiot Cassian got inserted into my first shot at this title for absolutely no reason just to get pinned like the waste of space he is, and Wade decided to introduce himself to me with my own belt last week. I tried to tell you boys, you need to play nice with me, because if you piss me off, I might just wipe you both off the face of the fucking Earth, and I wouldn’t even break a sweat. You want to push me? Consider me already pushed. Whoever comes out from your match standing? They’ll be laying face down in no time at all. I can promise you that.
There’s more than a tinge of intensity in Markus’ voice now, his entire demeanour changing, becoming more and more fired up with each word spoken.
MARKUS FK: I’m going to go and handle my business, face Emery and have a fantastic match against a legend of our business. You two, have fun fighting over who gets to be demolished by Sion’s Strongest. The belt stays with me until I’m done with it.
With that the huge Swiss mountain steps forward, palming the lens of the camera and pushing it out of his way as we go elsewhere.
We cut to a shot of the Gotham Championship now, the camera detailing every ornate carving and feature emblazoned in the metal before it zooms out to reveal its holder - Markus FK.
MARKUS FK: What a journey it’s been. My first few months were a torrid time, filled with Ant and I getting jumped from behind, attacked cheaply, suffering at the hands of those who love to cut corners time and time again with nothing being done to stop them.
He chuckles, shaking his head as he recalls the beginning of his time in Liberty Pro.
MARKUS FK: But there were a few shining lights in that darkness. Those that actually care about the integrity of this business. My wife is the prime example, in my opinion, but the former holder of this belt, BLC is another one, and my opponent tonight? She’s another. Tonight, Emery, it’s going to be an honour to wrestle you.
Markus nods, his large hand resting on his championship belt, strapped around his large waist - already in his ring gear for their match later tonight.
MARKUS FK: That doesn’t mean I’ll go easy on you, though. You’ve been on your own journey, many in this industry see you as a legend, and that’s a feather in my cap that I want badly. The whole time I’ve been here I’ve felt like a guy with a chip on my shoulder, trying to shake off that tag team guy image. Beating Bri was huge for that, winning this belt was massive, and beating you, Em, will be monumental. You better bring everything you’ve got, like I know you will, because I’m going to try to take your head off. Ant said I have to put it back on when I’m done, though.
The Swiss flashes a cheeky, handsome grin, a small chuckle escaping his lips after he makes the joke, a serious demeanour eventually returning as he moves on.
MARKUS FK: That’s not all I have to say, though. Because tonight there’s a match of great interest to me, consisting of two men who interest me little. Atticus Cassian versus Wade Manson to determine who’ll be the number one contender for this beautiful baby right here.
Markus pats the face of the belt, letting that linger for a moment.
MARKUS FK: I’m sure the annoying little lady holding Atticus’ leash won’t be too far behind either, and I’m certain she’ll try to make her mark in some way. Now I’ve got history with both of these men. Somehow that idiot Cassian got inserted into my first shot at this title for absolutely no reason just to get pinned like the waste of space he is, and Wade decided to introduce himself to me with my own belt last week. I tried to tell you boys, you need to play nice with me, because if you piss me off, I might just wipe you both off the face of the fucking Earth, and I wouldn’t even break a sweat. You want to push me? Consider me already pushed. Whoever comes out from your match standing? They’ll be laying face down in no time at all. I can promise you that.
There’s more than a tinge of intensity in Markus’ voice now, his entire demeanour changing, becoming more and more fired up with each word spoken.
MARKUS FK: I’m going to go and handle my business, face Emery and have a fantastic match against a legend of our business. You two, have fun fighting over who gets to be demolished by Sion’s Strongest. The belt stays with me until I’m done with it.
With that the huge Swiss mountain steps forward, palming the lens of the camera and pushing it out of his way as we go elsewhere.
BACKSTAGE
At first, all we can hear is the voice of Chase Romano against a dark screen.
Chase Romano: I’ve always been a huge fan of patron…
She pauses for a moment.
Chase Romano: Oh my god! I love a good marg but I am totally not one of those prissy girls just because I don’t drink beer like you!
Romano giggles, pausing once again. It becomes obvious that she’s speaking to someone, but that we as the audience are not privy to the other side of the conversation.
Chase Romano: Okay we’ll just see who can drink who under the table soon then, shall we?
Another small giggle.
Chase Romano: Okay I’ll call you later
The visual kicks in just in time to see Chase take the phone away from her face and ending the call. Looking down at the camera, she gasps, as if she didn’t realize it was there.
Chase Romano: Oh, didn’t see you there. I was just planning a little get together after the show tonight is all. For the last few weeks I couldn’t help but feel a huge weight has been lifted from my shoulders, and now all I want to do is have fun and do things my way.
She runs her right hand through her dark red hair. For once, Chase looked optimistic, and what’s more is that she actually looked happy.
Chase Romano: Having fun and doing things my way does involve me climbing through the ranks of Liberty and finally leaving my mark on this place. Just because I’m learning who I am, doesn’t mean I’ve forgotten my hopes and dreams. It’s still one of my dreams to hold a championship here in Liberty, and it’s my hope that I’ll continue to learn and hone my skill now that I have free reign to do so.
A look of embarrassment is written across her face as she recalls her one and only match with her idol, which hadn’t gone as planned like so many of her matches in Liberty.
Chase Romano: The last time I was against Melissa Reeves, things didn’t go that well. I know things have been pretty suspicious for her as of late, she can’t seem to have a straight up and down match. You could say things have been looking the same for me, for quite some time I might add. However, it’s my hope this time around that we can have that match, and oh boy is it one of my dream matches. I know that I’m a nobody on her radar in the grand scheme of things, but a rookie like me can learn a whole hell of a lot from a veteran like her. She’s accomplished so much in this business, and I stand to gain so much from this experience with her. I’m not going to let myself down and give anything less than 100% out there!
She moved her shoulders up and down, and then her head from side to side. Romano was psyching herself up.
Chase Romano: Add on the added stress of competing in this Liberty Championship tournament, and you’ve got me super nervous for tonight! BUT I also couldn’t be more ready. This is a sign of things to come, and my horizon looks bright!
Fade.
At first, all we can hear is the voice of Chase Romano against a dark screen.
Chase Romano: I’ve always been a huge fan of patron…
She pauses for a moment.
Chase Romano: Oh my god! I love a good marg but I am totally not one of those prissy girls just because I don’t drink beer like you!
Romano giggles, pausing once again. It becomes obvious that she’s speaking to someone, but that we as the audience are not privy to the other side of the conversation.
Chase Romano: Okay we’ll just see who can drink who under the table soon then, shall we?
Another small giggle.
Chase Romano: Okay I’ll call you later
The visual kicks in just in time to see Chase take the phone away from her face and ending the call. Looking down at the camera, she gasps, as if she didn’t realize it was there.
Chase Romano: Oh, didn’t see you there. I was just planning a little get together after the show tonight is all. For the last few weeks I couldn’t help but feel a huge weight has been lifted from my shoulders, and now all I want to do is have fun and do things my way.
She runs her right hand through her dark red hair. For once, Chase looked optimistic, and what’s more is that she actually looked happy.
Chase Romano: Having fun and doing things my way does involve me climbing through the ranks of Liberty and finally leaving my mark on this place. Just because I’m learning who I am, doesn’t mean I’ve forgotten my hopes and dreams. It’s still one of my dreams to hold a championship here in Liberty, and it’s my hope that I’ll continue to learn and hone my skill now that I have free reign to do so.
A look of embarrassment is written across her face as she recalls her one and only match with her idol, which hadn’t gone as planned like so many of her matches in Liberty.
Chase Romano: The last time I was against Melissa Reeves, things didn’t go that well. I know things have been pretty suspicious for her as of late, she can’t seem to have a straight up and down match. You could say things have been looking the same for me, for quite some time I might add. However, it’s my hope this time around that we can have that match, and oh boy is it one of my dream matches. I know that I’m a nobody on her radar in the grand scheme of things, but a rookie like me can learn a whole hell of a lot from a veteran like her. She’s accomplished so much in this business, and I stand to gain so much from this experience with her. I’m not going to let myself down and give anything less than 100% out there!
She moved her shoulders up and down, and then her head from side to side. Romano was psyching herself up.
Chase Romano: Add on the added stress of competing in this Liberty Championship tournament, and you’ve got me super nervous for tonight! BUT I also couldn’t be more ready. This is a sign of things to come, and my horizon looks bright!
Fade.
MATCH FOUR: SINGLES
Emery Layton vs Markus FK
Emery Layton vs Markus FK
| RECAP This match was everything you would expect out of a battle from Emery Layton and Markus FK. It was a banger. Emery used her lucha and technical abilities to stay ahead of the match, along with her very high IQ. It was clear she had Markus scouted. Markus would occasionally hit the big move here and there, but whenever he went to finish this one off? Emery had a counter. She would soon take the Gotham Champ down with Eat The Music (Busakiu Knee Attack). Before she scaled the top rope and went for her Prikasa but NO! Markus countered with a brutal Frei Train - Running Lariat, practically tearing Emery in half! He pinned and got the three count and the win. WINNER Markus FK METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 12:43 FINISHING MOVE Frei Train |
BACKSTAGE
We see a recap of the tag team title match between The Society and Ashes 2 Ashes that shows the ending of the match where Becky Balfour nailed AMC with the tag title in order to save her title reign. Once the recap ends the camera pulls back to show AMC staring at the monitor as she was watching the recap along with the rest of us.
AMC: Becky, Becky, Becky you really want to play this game with me? You really want to go the hardcore route? You want to bring weapons into this? That is fine with me bitch because I have no problem going medieval on your ass. So Liberty make it happen! AMC vs Becky no holds barred, Street fight hell make it a flaming tables match as I love those. Whatever stip you want, make the match! GIVE ME BECKY BALFOUR!!!!!!!
AMC takes a deep breath and tries to calm herself down,
AMC: However that is the future and this is now and tonight Liberty has decided to place me in a match against Briana Leigh Clark, So in other words the true Main Event is AMC vs BLC and that works for me. Now I saw BLC say on twitter she wants a good clean match?
AMC smirks
AMC: Why not. It would be a switch in Liberty to actually be in a clean match for once but i must warn you BLC I still have lots of aggression that i need to get out and while Becky would be the one to take it out on I may need to take it out on you but yes let's try to have a clean match and may the best woman win.
AMC looks over and grabs her phone and makes a call
AMC: Hey Chase its AMC. You sure you don’t need me to be in your corner tonight just in case? I mean you give the signal and I could whap her with a chair?
AMC walks off still talking to Chase Romano on her phone
We see a recap of the tag team title match between The Society and Ashes 2 Ashes that shows the ending of the match where Becky Balfour nailed AMC with the tag title in order to save her title reign. Once the recap ends the camera pulls back to show AMC staring at the monitor as she was watching the recap along with the rest of us.
AMC: Becky, Becky, Becky you really want to play this game with me? You really want to go the hardcore route? You want to bring weapons into this? That is fine with me bitch because I have no problem going medieval on your ass. So Liberty make it happen! AMC vs Becky no holds barred, Street fight hell make it a flaming tables match as I love those. Whatever stip you want, make the match! GIVE ME BECKY BALFOUR!!!!!!!
AMC takes a deep breath and tries to calm herself down,
AMC: However that is the future and this is now and tonight Liberty has decided to place me in a match against Briana Leigh Clark, So in other words the true Main Event is AMC vs BLC and that works for me. Now I saw BLC say on twitter she wants a good clean match?
AMC smirks
AMC: Why not. It would be a switch in Liberty to actually be in a clean match for once but i must warn you BLC I still have lots of aggression that i need to get out and while Becky would be the one to take it out on I may need to take it out on you but yes let's try to have a clean match and may the best woman win.
AMC looks over and grabs her phone and makes a call
AMC: Hey Chase its AMC. You sure you don’t need me to be in your corner tonight just in case? I mean you give the signal and I could whap her with a chair?
AMC walks off still talking to Chase Romano on her phone
MATCH FIVE: LIBERTY #1 CONTENDER TOURNEY
Chase Romano vs Melissa Reeves
Chase Romano vs Melissa Reeves
| RECAP Chase seemed to be getting better as each week passed. While she got knocked down a ton? She got back up and showed improvement. She definitely did that here tonight against Melissa Reeves, one of the top competitors in wrestling today. Chase showed that she wasn’t afraid against someone like Melissa and she fought hard, getting some real close pinfalls with a roll up here and a counter pin there. But eventually? The veteran was just too much and Melissa hit Chase with a Facial Deconstructor from out of nowhere! Despite the valiant effort, Chase fell short and Melissa moved on. WINNER Melissa Reeves METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 6:21 FINISHING MOVE Facial Deconstructor |
PREVIOUSLY RECORDED ELSEWHERE
On the backdrop of a black screen, we hear a blood curdling scream from an unknown woman. A moment later and the black screen is opened up on the face of that unknown woman. She’s terrified, and seemingly running for her life. She looks back behind her, and then runs across a large open lawn. She stops halfway through to turn behind her again, and there across the finely cut grass is none other than Wade Manson. He walks slow, methodical.
Wade Manson: I’ve been in Liberty for quite a while now, always in the shadows, doing what I want to do. I mistakenly brought someone with me when I first arrived, and I focused much of what I was doing with my career on that person. Now that I’ve freed myself to go down other avenues, I have other things in mind, and I’m pretty sure I made that clear last week. Now my wants include things like the Gotham Championship, and my needs include things like dismantling Marcus FK limb by limb.
The woman from before screams again, looking directly at Wade. She turns to run but trips on an imaginary rock or something, hurting her leg and tumbling to the ground. She screams out again, trying to crawl back to her feet.
Wade Manson: I may not have been on the card for the last Liberation but if you watched then you’d know that I was all over that show. Tending to my own goals, helping my good friend Tyson, and my influence could be felt throughout the night. You can feel it in the air, can’t you? That shift in power, that shift in dynamic. There’s something afoot here, something afloat that has everyone wondering. A dark cloud has come over Liberty, it starts here.
The woman has managed to get to her feet, albeit she is now limping away. She turns the corner, limping across the street, taking her time to turn and scream at Wade every chance she gets. It was some sort of exaggeration of a slasher film.
Wade Manson: Hello again Atticus, hello again Sunday. The last time we met, I was throwing you from ringside, Sunday, and I was blasting you in the face with a chair, Atticus. I get it, you have the power and size of a monster…but that’s where it ends. You’ve always needed Miss Sunday there, bloke, and the moment she’s gone then you crumble. I don’t need a woman by my side to get my way, and I’ve proven that.
The woman trips again, this time spraining her ankle in a way that keeps her from moving. Wade continues to slowly move towards her.
Wade Manson: I’ve been biding my time, waiting in the shadows like the rest of my brothers and you know what, we’re not waiting any longer. The time is now.
Manson walks up behind the woman on the ground, taking a knife to her throat. Just as he placed the knife to her neck, the scene cuts to black.
On the backdrop of a black screen, we hear a blood curdling scream from an unknown woman. A moment later and the black screen is opened up on the face of that unknown woman. She’s terrified, and seemingly running for her life. She looks back behind her, and then runs across a large open lawn. She stops halfway through to turn behind her again, and there across the finely cut grass is none other than Wade Manson. He walks slow, methodical.
Wade Manson: I’ve been in Liberty for quite a while now, always in the shadows, doing what I want to do. I mistakenly brought someone with me when I first arrived, and I focused much of what I was doing with my career on that person. Now that I’ve freed myself to go down other avenues, I have other things in mind, and I’m pretty sure I made that clear last week. Now my wants include things like the Gotham Championship, and my needs include things like dismantling Marcus FK limb by limb.
The woman from before screams again, looking directly at Wade. She turns to run but trips on an imaginary rock or something, hurting her leg and tumbling to the ground. She screams out again, trying to crawl back to her feet.
Wade Manson: I may not have been on the card for the last Liberation but if you watched then you’d know that I was all over that show. Tending to my own goals, helping my good friend Tyson, and my influence could be felt throughout the night. You can feel it in the air, can’t you? That shift in power, that shift in dynamic. There’s something afoot here, something afloat that has everyone wondering. A dark cloud has come over Liberty, it starts here.
The woman has managed to get to her feet, albeit she is now limping away. She turns the corner, limping across the street, taking her time to turn and scream at Wade every chance she gets. It was some sort of exaggeration of a slasher film.
Wade Manson: Hello again Atticus, hello again Sunday. The last time we met, I was throwing you from ringside, Sunday, and I was blasting you in the face with a chair, Atticus. I get it, you have the power and size of a monster…but that’s where it ends. You’ve always needed Miss Sunday there, bloke, and the moment she’s gone then you crumble. I don’t need a woman by my side to get my way, and I’ve proven that.
The woman trips again, this time spraining her ankle in a way that keeps her from moving. Wade continues to slowly move towards her.
Wade Manson: I’ve been biding my time, waiting in the shadows like the rest of my brothers and you know what, we’re not waiting any longer. The time is now.
Manson walks up behind the woman on the ground, taking a knife to her throat. Just as he placed the knife to her neck, the scene cuts to black.
MATCH SIX: GOTHAM #1 CONTENDER
Atticus Cassian w/Sunday K. Love vs Wade Manson
Atticus Cassian w/Sunday K. Love vs Wade Manson
| RECAP Atticus and Wade were going at it in this one. Both of them with a point to prove, both of them showing their brutality in this match. Wade almost picked up the win a few times but thanks to help from Sunday? Cassian soon gained the lead. But Atticus soon was distracted when Markus FK showed up and he picked Sunday up and slammed her into the ring post! Before Atti could exit the ring, Wade clubbed him from behind! But Markus was in the ring now and BANG! Frei Train on Wade! He then grabbed Atticus and downed him with Go FK Yourself! The referee called for this one to be a no contest as Markus stood in the middle of the ring and let out a primal scream before raising his hands in the air, much to the enjoyment of the fans. WINNER No Contest METHOD N/A MATCH LENGTH 8:33 FINISHING MOVE N/A |
RINGSIDE
The show returns from a short intermission to the opening guitar and train whistle of “Outlaw Man” By Nu Breed blasting through the arena.
“The Outlaw” Jack Graves steps out onto the top of the ramp with Rebekkah Katz and Thatcher Ray Nash at his side. Jack pauses briefly and he and Thatcher quickly shotgun a can of beer each in what has to be two seconds flat, which gets a roar from the fans. Once the can is drained, Jack tosses it over his shoulder, tips his hat to show love to the crowd, and begins his march down to the ring with his entourage, a microphone in hand.
Graves pauses once again to wipe his boots on the apron before climbing into the ring, a long-standing sign of respect for the sport. As the music dies down, Jack removes his sunglasses to look around at the crowd and he raises the mic to begin but an “Outlaw Shit” chant begins to build throughout the building, stopping him in his tracks. Jack gives them a minute to get it out of their system before raising the microphone back to his lips.
Jack Graves: Well, hello to ya’ll too. You’re fired up tonight huh? Ya’ll havin’ a good time?
The crowd responds with another roar and Jack nods, giving them his trademark grin.
Jack Graves: Well that’s good to hear because I’m fired up too. It’s a little different though. See, me…? I’m fired up to dog-walk Becky Balfour across every inch of this ring tonight like the BITCH that she is.
The crowd responds with an “ooooh” and Jack looks into the nearest camera and gives an innocent shrug.
Jack Graves: Sorry. That wasn’t PG-13 was it? Oh well.
Graves tucks the earpiece of his sunglasses into his shirt to let them hang, and he makes his way over to take a seat on the top turnbuckles, looking up the ramp as he speaks to directly Becky, and The Society now.
Katz and Thatcher stand guard outside the ring, both prepared for any signs of trouble.
Jack Graves: You just had to do it, huh? You couldn’t let sleeping dogs lie, huh Becky? You couldn’t just go on with your life? After THIS LONG? You haaaaad to bring up how I helped you and the society sneak into the building months ago. You just haaaaad to try and throw it in my face about how you think “you made me” and how I “still owe you.” and now look at you. Headed into a match tonight with someone who you KNOW will put you in the ground with a smile. I mean… that’s why you wanted me on your side to begin with, right?
Jack arches an eyebrow and waits for a moment, giving her the opportunity to come out and answer. When she doesn’t, Jack continues.
Jack Graves: Your words were, “I need some muscle that’s reliable.” weren’t they? What are Warren and Seth then, Becky? Are they unreliable? You know what? Let’s move past that, I wouldn’t want to open that can of worms and hurt some feelings. Why don’t you tell them why things really didn’t work out between me and The Society? Go ahead. Come tell them. I’ll wait.
Jack pauses again, and a few moments pass with no answer from Becky or any of The Society.
Jack Graves: It was because I refused to be a follower. I told you I would be an equal and you said you were the leader and that was that. Seth? Follower. Warren? Follower. Dex Moron? Follower. You’re all sheep being herded to your slaughter and you’re too blind to see it. Do you think you’re her family? Do you think she cares if you have “history?” She doesn't care about anyone or anything but herself. She will step on you to get ahead, use you until your usefulness runs out, and then cast you aside like garbage. Isn’t that right Becky? You just replace folks. But bitches like you are always the same. You use and use and use until the well dries up, and then you toss someone aside until you need them again. Most motherfuckers like you though? They come crawling back. Groveling, begging, pleading. But not you. You came barking orders, thinking I owed you something for a recommendation on a tryout over 6 months ago.
Jack hops down off the turnbuckle and takes his place back in the center of the ring.
Jack Graves: I got news for you. You didn’t make a goddamn thing. I went to the tryout and I aced that shit. I’m the one that has been working my ass off week in and week out to become what I have. I’m the one selling tickets, selling merch, filling seats. LISTEN TO THESE FUCKIN’ FANS. THEY AIN’T CHANTING “THE SOCIETY” BITCH, THEY ARE CHANTING “OUTLAW SHIT.”
Jack roars, getting another pop from the crowd, and yet another round of “Outlaw Shit” chants. Jack doesn’t wait for this one to cool down though. He’s fired up.
Instead, he tears off his shirt, and his hat to throw them to the crowd before turning to look back up the ramp.
Jack Graves: You picked the wrong motherfucker to try to strong-arm this time. I’m not the rest of these folks in the back, and I’m not going to lay down and take your shit. But you already knew that, didn’t you? Let's go. Come on Becky. BRING YOUR ASS OUT HERE! LET’S SKIP ALL THE TALKIN’ AND GET TO THE WALKIN’. COME GET THIS BACKWOODS SMOKE.
The familiar beginning of ‘Would?’ by Alice in Chains begins to fill the venue as the fans boo heavily. We get a close up of Jack Graves with a mile wide long grin on his face as Becky Balfour appears at the top of the entranceway. The bright haired former world champion doesn’t look intimidated or happy, instead she looks focused. Thatcher and Rebekkah are on alert as a few men around ringside stand up and pull their hoods down to reveal unkempt beards and scraggly, oily long hair. They hop over the barricade and begin to approach the ring but suddenly look at Becky and walk up towards her instead. They make their own makeshift aisleway, as Becky walks by them and the men then head to the backstage area as Balfour marches to the ring on her own.
Becky stops just a few feet from the ring as Thatcher and Rebekkah were standing directly between her and the ring. Jack shouts to ‘let her ass in’ and Thatcher and Rebekkah part, to give Becky the room to climb up onto the ring apron. Balfour stares at Jack from the apron before finally stepping under the middle rope as the fans cheer as she aggressively walks right up to Jack, staring him down! The two were chest to chest with Jack towering over Becky who didn’t show a bit of fear. The two just stare at each other for what seems like an extended period of time but was more like twenty seconds. Becky then walks towards the edge of the ring and reaches out for a microphone. Now, armed with a microphone, she returns to the center of the ring, but this time leaves about three arms lengths between her and Jack.
Becky Balfour: The theatrics were a nice touch, Graves. That’s something else you learned from me, isn’t it? The more you deny, the more you posture, the more you expose yourself. You never claimed to be a nice guy, other than the time you fraudulently called yourself The Gentleman, but you backtracked on that about as fast as you backtracked on our arrangement. Remember, all those months ago? When you were calling yourself The Gentleman, you were opening the door for us and lying about it to the world. People were getting hurt and YOU were to blame. Not me. Not Seth. Not Warren. But you…because without that key, there would be no entrance to chaos.
Balfour twirls the mic around in her hand as she steps just a bit closer to Graves who hasn’t taken his eyes off of her.
Becky Balfour: Nathan Callaghan called us his dose of poison, and you were pumping it into the veins of the company directly. There’s no hiding it anymore, is there? What’s worse is, you did it because you were a greedy, self-serving bastard. Say what you want about me wanting to lead you, the reality is, you needed me so bad, that you agreed to open that door for us week in, and week out, and if you didn’t need me, why would you agree to our terms in the first place? Have you grown as a fighter? Sure. And now that you feel like you don’t need me anymore, you’re backing out of what we agreed on. Can’t say I’m surprised. They say all a man has is his word and his balls, don’t they? Well…you don’t have your word, so I’m wondering about the other part as well…
The fans are shocked that Balfour was going right back at Jack as Becky runs a tongue over her bottom lip in amusement before continuing.
Becky Balfour: You’re playing the same game that everyone else has played over the last five years. Try to turn Warren and Seth against me, but it hasn’t worked yet, and do you know why? It’s because we ARE family. When the cameras are shut off, when things are real? So are we. I’m holding them back? Warren is the current king of the company as the top champion, and Seth? We hold the tag titles TOGETHER, proudly, side by side. But you? What have you done other than prove that you’re just as much a menace as we are, the only difference is, we don’t hide behind a pretty birdie and pretend to be something we aren’t, do we?
Jack stands there, amused, listening to her speak until she finishes her last line. Once she does, he yawns and checks his imaginary watch for the time.
Jack Graves: oh. Were you done? Did you ask a question? I checked out like… around the time you started talking about my balls. That was a little weird. Oh, and what’s with the fuckin’ smelly parade of homeless people? Did you just start going up to everyone panhandling out there in the parking lot and start offering them the same kind of “deal” you offered me?
Jack makes a “yikes” face at the camera, before turning back to Bex with a smirk.
Jack Graves: TLDR, Jack is a bad person because he let us into the building and he didn’t keep up his bargain, right? Whine whine whine, bitch bitch bitch. It’s always the same ol’ shit from you. You victimize people until the tables are turned and then you play the victim. Why did I continue letting you in? Because a wise man once told me to keep my friends close, but my enemies closer. You didn’t ACTUALLY think I was your friend, did you? That I wanted to help you? HAHAHAHAHA
Jack doubles over in laughter and holds a hand up to ask for a minute to catch his breath.
Jack Graves: You… YOU DID! HAHAHA, Becky. Come on now.
Jack stands back upright, and he shakes his head at Balfour, wiping away a tear from laughing so hard.
Jack Graves: You were right about one thing. I am a greedy, self-serving bastard. Which is why I wanted you at arm’s length at first. I figured that if you and your cronies thought I was with you, you wouldn’t be concerned with me. You’d be focused on Derrick La’Bell and Ant, and whoever else distracted you while I worked on building a circle around me in silence, a circle that I actually was just going to use to do everyone a favor and take you, and your “society” the fuck out. Let’s face it. You got played. You believed I’d be there when you needed me. You believed that getting me a simple ass TRYOUT indebted me to you, and I played mister humble oh so well. Didn’t I?
Jack switches on his fake innocence, dropping the hostility as an act for only a moment.
Jack Graves: Thank you so much for putting in a good word for me, Becky. I’ll find some way to repay you.
Graves continues, circling around Becky Balfour like a shark circling its prey.
Jack Graves: Whatever you need, I’ve got you.
Jack stops in front of her again and gives her a fake pouty lip, sniffling for effect.
Jack Graves: I can’t believe you’d pick Syn over me… You really hurt my feelings.
Another laugh comes from Graves as he leans in to stare daggers into the eyes of Balfour. What she sees are the eyes of a killer. Not the eyes of the man she thought that Jack Graves was.
There’s no “gentleman” in sight.
Jack Graves: You bought it all. Hook, line, and sinker. I never cared about you, or The Society, or Syn for that matter. I mean, you saw what I did to her. You’re going to get the same fate, and you fucking deserve it. Not just because of what you’ve done to all those other people… although god knows that’s a good enough cause. But it’s because honestly Bex? I just don’t like you. I don’t like the way you walk around here like you’re the queen of the world when you’re just a common, run-of-the-mill, white trash junkie that I probably would’ve had sucking me off for heroin or coke 10 years ago. Honestly? There are 100 of you on Broadway in Nashville on any Friday night. Most importantly though? I don’t like how you tried to take advantage of a newcomer to this sport and tried to manipulate and blackmail me into being just another one of your hired thugs, stuck behind you. You say “Oh Warren is the top champion” but let’s be real, it’s only a matter of time before you turn on him too and try to take that top championship for yourself. You’re not foolin’ anyone. So go ahead and bring your “family.” I want you to bring everything you’ve got because best believe I’m going to do the same, and spoiler alert? It’s more than just Katz and Thatcher and Rayven, Becky. It’s a lot more.
Jack smirks brushing some hair out of Bex’s face as the smirk slowly turns into a snarl.
Jack Graves: I’m going to bury each and every one of you for what you’ve done to this company and this business over the years. I am your judgment day, Bex. I have been since the beginning. You were just too blinded by your own ego to see it coming.
Becky stares blankly at Graves. His words were cold. They hit like ice daggers to the chest, but she was smarter than to get riled up when the odds weren’t in her favor. She turns to look behind her and sees Rebekkah and Thatcher standing by before turning back to Jack. She drops her microphone, causing static to fill the venue before slowly taking a few steps back from him, drawing in boos. The fans wanted to see them end this now!
Becky then steps through the ropes and begins to exit the ring as the boos only increase in volume! As soon as she makes it out onto the floor, she’s blocked by Thatcher and Rebekkah, and this gets a roar from the crowd as they anticipate the coming violence about to erupt. However, the fans are let down by Graves shaking his head and telling Thatcher and Wildkat to let her through. There is another rain of boos, as Becky makes her way up the ramp. She stops at the top to look back at Graves, and Jack blows her a kiss before extending double middle fingers to her and her to end the scene.
The show returns from a short intermission to the opening guitar and train whistle of “Outlaw Man” By Nu Breed blasting through the arena.
“When the sun comes up tomorrow
I probably won't be around
'Cause I'm a ramblin' man with a gun in my hand
And I'm wanted in this town.
And the sheriff man has a posse
With a price tag on my head
I was born and raised in these outlaw ways
And I’ll go to my grave as an Outlaw man.”
I probably won't be around
'Cause I'm a ramblin' man with a gun in my hand
And I'm wanted in this town.
And the sheriff man has a posse
With a price tag on my head
I was born and raised in these outlaw ways
And I’ll go to my grave as an Outlaw man.”
“The Outlaw” Jack Graves steps out onto the top of the ramp with Rebekkah Katz and Thatcher Ray Nash at his side. Jack pauses briefly and he and Thatcher quickly shotgun a can of beer each in what has to be two seconds flat, which gets a roar from the fans. Once the can is drained, Jack tosses it over his shoulder, tips his hat to show love to the crowd, and begins his march down to the ring with his entourage, a microphone in hand.
”I’ve poured blood, and I've made 'em bleed
I've taken souls, and I've set 'em free
You gon' learn today about respectin' me
And loose lips ain't a threat to me.
I'm against the grain, I'm John Wayne
I'm Billy the Kid on a bad day
I'm the black sheep with a mad face
I'm a black rose in the bouquet”
I've taken souls, and I've set 'em free
You gon' learn today about respectin' me
And loose lips ain't a threat to me.
I'm against the grain, I'm John Wayne
I'm Billy the Kid on a bad day
I'm the black sheep with a mad face
I'm a black rose in the bouquet”
Graves pauses once again to wipe his boots on the apron before climbing into the ring, a long-standing sign of respect for the sport. As the music dies down, Jack removes his sunglasses to look around at the crowd and he raises the mic to begin but an “Outlaw Shit” chant begins to build throughout the building, stopping him in his tracks. Jack gives them a minute to get it out of their system before raising the microphone back to his lips.
Jack Graves: Well, hello to ya’ll too. You’re fired up tonight huh? Ya’ll havin’ a good time?
The crowd responds with another roar and Jack nods, giving them his trademark grin.
Jack Graves: Well that’s good to hear because I’m fired up too. It’s a little different though. See, me…? I’m fired up to dog-walk Becky Balfour across every inch of this ring tonight like the BITCH that she is.
The crowd responds with an “ooooh” and Jack looks into the nearest camera and gives an innocent shrug.
Jack Graves: Sorry. That wasn’t PG-13 was it? Oh well.
Graves tucks the earpiece of his sunglasses into his shirt to let them hang, and he makes his way over to take a seat on the top turnbuckles, looking up the ramp as he speaks to directly Becky, and The Society now.
Katz and Thatcher stand guard outside the ring, both prepared for any signs of trouble.
Jack Graves: You just had to do it, huh? You couldn’t let sleeping dogs lie, huh Becky? You couldn’t just go on with your life? After THIS LONG? You haaaaad to bring up how I helped you and the society sneak into the building months ago. You just haaaaad to try and throw it in my face about how you think “you made me” and how I “still owe you.” and now look at you. Headed into a match tonight with someone who you KNOW will put you in the ground with a smile. I mean… that’s why you wanted me on your side to begin with, right?
Jack arches an eyebrow and waits for a moment, giving her the opportunity to come out and answer. When she doesn’t, Jack continues.
Jack Graves: Your words were, “I need some muscle that’s reliable.” weren’t they? What are Warren and Seth then, Becky? Are they unreliable? You know what? Let’s move past that, I wouldn’t want to open that can of worms and hurt some feelings. Why don’t you tell them why things really didn’t work out between me and The Society? Go ahead. Come tell them. I’ll wait.
Jack pauses again, and a few moments pass with no answer from Becky or any of The Society.
Jack Graves: It was because I refused to be a follower. I told you I would be an equal and you said you were the leader and that was that. Seth? Follower. Warren? Follower. Dex Moron? Follower. You’re all sheep being herded to your slaughter and you’re too blind to see it. Do you think you’re her family? Do you think she cares if you have “history?” She doesn't care about anyone or anything but herself. She will step on you to get ahead, use you until your usefulness runs out, and then cast you aside like garbage. Isn’t that right Becky? You just replace folks. But bitches like you are always the same. You use and use and use until the well dries up, and then you toss someone aside until you need them again. Most motherfuckers like you though? They come crawling back. Groveling, begging, pleading. But not you. You came barking orders, thinking I owed you something for a recommendation on a tryout over 6 months ago.
Jack hops down off the turnbuckle and takes his place back in the center of the ring.
Jack Graves: I got news for you. You didn’t make a goddamn thing. I went to the tryout and I aced that shit. I’m the one that has been working my ass off week in and week out to become what I have. I’m the one selling tickets, selling merch, filling seats. LISTEN TO THESE FUCKIN’ FANS. THEY AIN’T CHANTING “THE SOCIETY” BITCH, THEY ARE CHANTING “OUTLAW SHIT.”
Jack roars, getting another pop from the crowd, and yet another round of “Outlaw Shit” chants. Jack doesn’t wait for this one to cool down though. He’s fired up.
Instead, he tears off his shirt, and his hat to throw them to the crowd before turning to look back up the ramp.
Jack Graves: You picked the wrong motherfucker to try to strong-arm this time. I’m not the rest of these folks in the back, and I’m not going to lay down and take your shit. But you already knew that, didn’t you? Let's go. Come on Becky. BRING YOUR ASS OUT HERE! LET’S SKIP ALL THE TALKIN’ AND GET TO THE WALKIN’. COME GET THIS BACKWOODS SMOKE.
The familiar beginning of ‘Would?’ by Alice in Chains begins to fill the venue as the fans boo heavily. We get a close up of Jack Graves with a mile wide long grin on his face as Becky Balfour appears at the top of the entranceway. The bright haired former world champion doesn’t look intimidated or happy, instead she looks focused. Thatcher and Rebekkah are on alert as a few men around ringside stand up and pull their hoods down to reveal unkempt beards and scraggly, oily long hair. They hop over the barricade and begin to approach the ring but suddenly look at Becky and walk up towards her instead. They make their own makeshift aisleway, as Becky walks by them and the men then head to the backstage area as Balfour marches to the ring on her own.
Becky stops just a few feet from the ring as Thatcher and Rebekkah were standing directly between her and the ring. Jack shouts to ‘let her ass in’ and Thatcher and Rebekkah part, to give Becky the room to climb up onto the ring apron. Balfour stares at Jack from the apron before finally stepping under the middle rope as the fans cheer as she aggressively walks right up to Jack, staring him down! The two were chest to chest with Jack towering over Becky who didn’t show a bit of fear. The two just stare at each other for what seems like an extended period of time but was more like twenty seconds. Becky then walks towards the edge of the ring and reaches out for a microphone. Now, armed with a microphone, she returns to the center of the ring, but this time leaves about three arms lengths between her and Jack.
Becky Balfour: The theatrics were a nice touch, Graves. That’s something else you learned from me, isn’t it? The more you deny, the more you posture, the more you expose yourself. You never claimed to be a nice guy, other than the time you fraudulently called yourself The Gentleman, but you backtracked on that about as fast as you backtracked on our arrangement. Remember, all those months ago? When you were calling yourself The Gentleman, you were opening the door for us and lying about it to the world. People were getting hurt and YOU were to blame. Not me. Not Seth. Not Warren. But you…because without that key, there would be no entrance to chaos.
Balfour twirls the mic around in her hand as she steps just a bit closer to Graves who hasn’t taken his eyes off of her.
Becky Balfour: Nathan Callaghan called us his dose of poison, and you were pumping it into the veins of the company directly. There’s no hiding it anymore, is there? What’s worse is, you did it because you were a greedy, self-serving bastard. Say what you want about me wanting to lead you, the reality is, you needed me so bad, that you agreed to open that door for us week in, and week out, and if you didn’t need me, why would you agree to our terms in the first place? Have you grown as a fighter? Sure. And now that you feel like you don’t need me anymore, you’re backing out of what we agreed on. Can’t say I’m surprised. They say all a man has is his word and his balls, don’t they? Well…you don’t have your word, so I’m wondering about the other part as well…
The fans are shocked that Balfour was going right back at Jack as Becky runs a tongue over her bottom lip in amusement before continuing.
Becky Balfour: You’re playing the same game that everyone else has played over the last five years. Try to turn Warren and Seth against me, but it hasn’t worked yet, and do you know why? It’s because we ARE family. When the cameras are shut off, when things are real? So are we. I’m holding them back? Warren is the current king of the company as the top champion, and Seth? We hold the tag titles TOGETHER, proudly, side by side. But you? What have you done other than prove that you’re just as much a menace as we are, the only difference is, we don’t hide behind a pretty birdie and pretend to be something we aren’t, do we?
Jack stands there, amused, listening to her speak until she finishes her last line. Once she does, he yawns and checks his imaginary watch for the time.
Jack Graves: oh. Were you done? Did you ask a question? I checked out like… around the time you started talking about my balls. That was a little weird. Oh, and what’s with the fuckin’ smelly parade of homeless people? Did you just start going up to everyone panhandling out there in the parking lot and start offering them the same kind of “deal” you offered me?
Jack makes a “yikes” face at the camera, before turning back to Bex with a smirk.
Jack Graves: TLDR, Jack is a bad person because he let us into the building and he didn’t keep up his bargain, right? Whine whine whine, bitch bitch bitch. It’s always the same ol’ shit from you. You victimize people until the tables are turned and then you play the victim. Why did I continue letting you in? Because a wise man once told me to keep my friends close, but my enemies closer. You didn’t ACTUALLY think I was your friend, did you? That I wanted to help you? HAHAHAHAHA
Jack doubles over in laughter and holds a hand up to ask for a minute to catch his breath.
Jack Graves: You… YOU DID! HAHAHA, Becky. Come on now.
Jack stands back upright, and he shakes his head at Balfour, wiping away a tear from laughing so hard.
Jack Graves: You were right about one thing. I am a greedy, self-serving bastard. Which is why I wanted you at arm’s length at first. I figured that if you and your cronies thought I was with you, you wouldn’t be concerned with me. You’d be focused on Derrick La’Bell and Ant, and whoever else distracted you while I worked on building a circle around me in silence, a circle that I actually was just going to use to do everyone a favor and take you, and your “society” the fuck out. Let’s face it. You got played. You believed I’d be there when you needed me. You believed that getting me a simple ass TRYOUT indebted me to you, and I played mister humble oh so well. Didn’t I?
Jack switches on his fake innocence, dropping the hostility as an act for only a moment.
Jack Graves: Thank you so much for putting in a good word for me, Becky. I’ll find some way to repay you.
Graves continues, circling around Becky Balfour like a shark circling its prey.
Jack Graves: Whatever you need, I’ve got you.
Jack stops in front of her again and gives her a fake pouty lip, sniffling for effect.
Jack Graves: I can’t believe you’d pick Syn over me… You really hurt my feelings.
Another laugh comes from Graves as he leans in to stare daggers into the eyes of Balfour. What she sees are the eyes of a killer. Not the eyes of the man she thought that Jack Graves was.
There’s no “gentleman” in sight.
Jack Graves: You bought it all. Hook, line, and sinker. I never cared about you, or The Society, or Syn for that matter. I mean, you saw what I did to her. You’re going to get the same fate, and you fucking deserve it. Not just because of what you’ve done to all those other people… although god knows that’s a good enough cause. But it’s because honestly Bex? I just don’t like you. I don’t like the way you walk around here like you’re the queen of the world when you’re just a common, run-of-the-mill, white trash junkie that I probably would’ve had sucking me off for heroin or coke 10 years ago. Honestly? There are 100 of you on Broadway in Nashville on any Friday night. Most importantly though? I don’t like how you tried to take advantage of a newcomer to this sport and tried to manipulate and blackmail me into being just another one of your hired thugs, stuck behind you. You say “Oh Warren is the top champion” but let’s be real, it’s only a matter of time before you turn on him too and try to take that top championship for yourself. You’re not foolin’ anyone. So go ahead and bring your “family.” I want you to bring everything you’ve got because best believe I’m going to do the same, and spoiler alert? It’s more than just Katz and Thatcher and Rayven, Becky. It’s a lot more.
Jack smirks brushing some hair out of Bex’s face as the smirk slowly turns into a snarl.
Jack Graves: I’m going to bury each and every one of you for what you’ve done to this company and this business over the years. I am your judgment day, Bex. I have been since the beginning. You were just too blinded by your own ego to see it coming.
Becky stares blankly at Graves. His words were cold. They hit like ice daggers to the chest, but she was smarter than to get riled up when the odds weren’t in her favor. She turns to look behind her and sees Rebekkah and Thatcher standing by before turning back to Jack. She drops her microphone, causing static to fill the venue before slowly taking a few steps back from him, drawing in boos. The fans wanted to see them end this now!
Becky then steps through the ropes and begins to exit the ring as the boos only increase in volume! As soon as she makes it out onto the floor, she’s blocked by Thatcher and Rebekkah, and this gets a roar from the crowd as they anticipate the coming violence about to erupt. However, the fans are let down by Graves shaking his head and telling Thatcher and Wildkat to let her through. There is another rain of boos, as Becky makes her way up the ramp. She stops at the top to look back at Graves, and Jack blows her a kiss before extending double middle fingers to her and her to end the scene.
MATCH SEVEN: LIBERTY #1 CONTENDER TOURNEY
Tyson Gregory vs Brea Lombardi
Tyson Gregory vs Brea Lombardi
| RECAP Brea Lombardi gave a valiant effort here, hitting some surprising moves on Tyson, including Tornado of Souls (DDT). But things took a bad turn for her when she went for Mosh-Room Stomp (Diving Double Foot Stomp) and Gregory dodged it before he grabbed her and quickly ended this with The End Of Your Sorrow (Lifting single underhook DDT). WINNER Tyson Gregory METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 6:32 FINISHING MOVE The End of Your Sorrow |
BACKSTAGE
Brianna Clark: Remember when wrestling was just about wrestling? When it wasn’t about cutting your opponent to ribbons verbally before getting in the ring and assaulting them physically?
There’s a smirk on Brianna’s lips, and she shakes her head and laughs before continuing on, her hands lifting up as she shrugs, displaying the t-shirt stretched across her chest with images of herself and Emery Layton emblazoned on it.
Brianna Clark: Well it’s always been about both and if you think it was ever the first thing, you’re probably kind of creeping up there in years and are still pissed off about not having hover skateboards and getting called “boomer” when that was your dad, but also being such a sour puss you really look like… you know what. As Emery Layton’s tag partner I don’t think I should be out here mentioning dads, that's kind of her thing.
She makes a cute sort of face at this, twirling one of her fingers to accentuate the point before dropping her hands to her generous hips.
Brianna Clark: Tonight though I’m not getting to work with my partner, more’s the pity but don’t you worry! There’s a lot more of The Lads that you’re all going to get to drink in and enjoy. Just not tonight. Tonight I’m facing the ever lovin’ AMC. Now all I really know about AMC is what’s happened right here in Liberty and I’m fine with that. A fair hand as a wrestler, likes to prank it up with Ant, who’s frankly one of the best on the roster, you know. The obvious things.
Brianna licks her lips and then winks towards the camera.
Brianna Clark: I don’t think she’s going to try and cheat her way to a win, especially since Ant asked her not to, real public like, though I do have to side eye the fact that Ant felt the need to stress the point.
She lits a hand to her chin in a classic HMMMM motion before she snickers.
Brianna Clark: Weird, huh? Either way, I’m going to bring you a decent fight, Ayyyy Emmm Ceeee. I’m going to bring you the fight you deserve, so let’s see what you can do with it.
Brianna Clark: Remember when wrestling was just about wrestling? When it wasn’t about cutting your opponent to ribbons verbally before getting in the ring and assaulting them physically?
There’s a smirk on Brianna’s lips, and she shakes her head and laughs before continuing on, her hands lifting up as she shrugs, displaying the t-shirt stretched across her chest with images of herself and Emery Layton emblazoned on it.
Brianna Clark: Well it’s always been about both and if you think it was ever the first thing, you’re probably kind of creeping up there in years and are still pissed off about not having hover skateboards and getting called “boomer” when that was your dad, but also being such a sour puss you really look like… you know what. As Emery Layton’s tag partner I don’t think I should be out here mentioning dads, that's kind of her thing.
She makes a cute sort of face at this, twirling one of her fingers to accentuate the point before dropping her hands to her generous hips.
Brianna Clark: Tonight though I’m not getting to work with my partner, more’s the pity but don’t you worry! There’s a lot more of The Lads that you’re all going to get to drink in and enjoy. Just not tonight. Tonight I’m facing the ever lovin’ AMC. Now all I really know about AMC is what’s happened right here in Liberty and I’m fine with that. A fair hand as a wrestler, likes to prank it up with Ant, who’s frankly one of the best on the roster, you know. The obvious things.
Brianna licks her lips and then winks towards the camera.
Brianna Clark: I don’t think she’s going to try and cheat her way to a win, especially since Ant asked her not to, real public like, though I do have to side eye the fact that Ant felt the need to stress the point.
She lits a hand to her chin in a classic HMMMM motion before she snickers.
Brianna Clark: Weird, huh? Either way, I’m going to bring you a decent fight, Ayyyy Emmm Ceeee. I’m going to bring you the fight you deserve, so let’s see what you can do with it.
MATCH EIGHT: SINGLES
Briana Leigh Clark vs AMC
Briana Leigh Clark vs AMC
| RECAP AMC made it known earlier how much she wants a battle with Balfour but right now? She has to focus on Brianna Leigh Clark. This was one of the best matches of the night, as these two are two of the shining stars of the tag division and they wanted to show out for their teams. AMC almost had some near falls but BLC wouldn’t stay down in this one. AMC went for something big off the top ropes but BLC countered with Punch into Row Z (Discus Punch), that obliterated AMC with the impact. BLC pinned and got the three count for the win. WINNER Brianna Leigh Clark METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 9:22 FINISHING MOVE Punch into Row Z |
BACKSTAGE
<STATIC>
TJ Techniques: Ayo, is that camera on?
Cameraman: We're rolling, TJ!
TJ Techniques: Bet.
TJ Techniques rubs his hands with anticipation. Liberation continues as The Funky Technician stands by as he's got a contendership tournament match on hand. Since the big LPW/EPW Draft, TJ's picked up some big wins over the likes of Jack Graves and Scotty Latimer. Now it's time to take the momentum from those matches, plus the big War Games win, and used it to help push him towards the ultimate goal.
TJ Techniques: Sabrina McKay. Now, I hate to kick somebody when they down. Unless it's Lilly Callaghan because, well, fuck her.
TJ can't help but to let our a smirk. After everything that woman put TJ and others through, he won't pass up the chance to throw dirt on her name. Good riddance.
TJ Techniques: But like I was sayin'... I really do hate to kick somebody while they down. I don't like gettin' off on that. That's not my vibe. It's not how I get down. But Sabrina, babygirl... this whole Liberation stint of yours? It ain't been goin' too hot. If I did my math right, that Win/Loss record of yours ain't lookin' too good in the light. Now I've been there, too. I can understand. You feel like you take a step forward, then ten steps back. You know what you need to do. You know what you gotta do. But when the times comes to actual pull through and get it done, that opportunity slips right through your damn fingers. Sometimes, you just get beat by the better wrestler. Other times, you ARE the better wrestler, but they sneak one by you. They trick you. They cheat you. Like I said, I understand the struggle. I been there. We all been there.
TJ tries to offer some comforting words, even though he knows is the roles were reversed, she likely wouldn't return the favor.
TJ Techniques: Now, you see this here Liberation card. You see your name thrown in this here Liberty Contendership tournament. Suddenly, that lightbulb goes off. You think that this is your chance. This is your chance to finally make an actual impact here. You think that this is your time to shine. You then see your name next to The Funky Technician's and you think that that's your meal ticket. You think that that's the name to beat that's gon' propel you to the next level and get you one step closer to a shot at the Liberty Championship. Well, let me be the first one to tell you that, uh...
TJ leans back. He coyly looks off to the left... then to his right... then waves the cameraman in.
TJ Techniques: ... it ain't happenin', ma! Sorry. Not on my watch. You might get that big win next week. You might get it next month. But it ain't happenin' tonight. Nah, buddy. No can do. You see, this here Contendership Tournament is mine for the takin'. You see, once upon a time, I held the equivalent to the Liberty Championship. Once upon a time, I was the Freedom Champion and let me tell you somethin'. I held that belt proudly. I carried that brand on my back! Dare I say, I carried this damn company on my back! But like all good things, my time as champion came to an end. Sparrow, he caught me. He did.
TJ gestures with his hands that he's once again giving up respect to the West Indian Whirlwind.
TJ Techniques: But the thing that got me wasn't the fact that Sparrow beat me. It was the fact that I never got the chance to run it back for the championship that I lost. The honor, the prestige that belt had. That was ME! That was MY hard work! MY blood! MY tears! I put in the sweat equity to make that championship was it was! Since that time, Sparrow got the belt stolen from him the very same night he won it, bum ass Blyss Lockhart took that championship hostage and now she's up in Canada on another brand while I'm... here.
TJ lets out a sigh.
TJ Techniques: So since I can't get a crack at the championship that I helped build up, then I mind as well turn my attention to another championship. The Liberty Championship. The path to that championship starts right here tonight and unfortunately for you, Sabrina, you're the first one that I gotta put down. I won't say it's gon' be easy. I won't say it's gon' be a walk in the park. Even with your lack of success, I won't overlook you. I won't underrate you. But believe me when I tell you, one way or another, I will go THROUGH you. Now peep that...
<STATIC>
TJ Techniques: Ayo, is that camera on?
Cameraman: We're rolling, TJ!
TJ Techniques: Bet.
TJ Techniques rubs his hands with anticipation. Liberation continues as The Funky Technician stands by as he's got a contendership tournament match on hand. Since the big LPW/EPW Draft, TJ's picked up some big wins over the likes of Jack Graves and Scotty Latimer. Now it's time to take the momentum from those matches, plus the big War Games win, and used it to help push him towards the ultimate goal.
TJ Techniques: Sabrina McKay. Now, I hate to kick somebody when they down. Unless it's Lilly Callaghan because, well, fuck her.
TJ can't help but to let our a smirk. After everything that woman put TJ and others through, he won't pass up the chance to throw dirt on her name. Good riddance.
TJ Techniques: But like I was sayin'... I really do hate to kick somebody while they down. I don't like gettin' off on that. That's not my vibe. It's not how I get down. But Sabrina, babygirl... this whole Liberation stint of yours? It ain't been goin' too hot. If I did my math right, that Win/Loss record of yours ain't lookin' too good in the light. Now I've been there, too. I can understand. You feel like you take a step forward, then ten steps back. You know what you need to do. You know what you gotta do. But when the times comes to actual pull through and get it done, that opportunity slips right through your damn fingers. Sometimes, you just get beat by the better wrestler. Other times, you ARE the better wrestler, but they sneak one by you. They trick you. They cheat you. Like I said, I understand the struggle. I been there. We all been there.
TJ tries to offer some comforting words, even though he knows is the roles were reversed, she likely wouldn't return the favor.
TJ Techniques: Now, you see this here Liberation card. You see your name thrown in this here Liberty Contendership tournament. Suddenly, that lightbulb goes off. You think that this is your chance. This is your chance to finally make an actual impact here. You think that this is your time to shine. You then see your name next to The Funky Technician's and you think that that's your meal ticket. You think that that's the name to beat that's gon' propel you to the next level and get you one step closer to a shot at the Liberty Championship. Well, let me be the first one to tell you that, uh...
TJ leans back. He coyly looks off to the left... then to his right... then waves the cameraman in.
TJ Techniques: ... it ain't happenin', ma! Sorry. Not on my watch. You might get that big win next week. You might get it next month. But it ain't happenin' tonight. Nah, buddy. No can do. You see, this here Contendership Tournament is mine for the takin'. You see, once upon a time, I held the equivalent to the Liberty Championship. Once upon a time, I was the Freedom Champion and let me tell you somethin'. I held that belt proudly. I carried that brand on my back! Dare I say, I carried this damn company on my back! But like all good things, my time as champion came to an end. Sparrow, he caught me. He did.
TJ gestures with his hands that he's once again giving up respect to the West Indian Whirlwind.
TJ Techniques: But the thing that got me wasn't the fact that Sparrow beat me. It was the fact that I never got the chance to run it back for the championship that I lost. The honor, the prestige that belt had. That was ME! That was MY hard work! MY blood! MY tears! I put in the sweat equity to make that championship was it was! Since that time, Sparrow got the belt stolen from him the very same night he won it, bum ass Blyss Lockhart took that championship hostage and now she's up in Canada on another brand while I'm... here.
TJ lets out a sigh.
TJ Techniques: So since I can't get a crack at the championship that I helped build up, then I mind as well turn my attention to another championship. The Liberty Championship. The path to that championship starts right here tonight and unfortunately for you, Sabrina, you're the first one that I gotta put down. I won't say it's gon' be easy. I won't say it's gon' be a walk in the park. Even with your lack of success, I won't overlook you. I won't underrate you. But believe me when I tell you, one way or another, I will go THROUGH you. Now peep that...
MATCH NINE: LIBERTY #1 CONTENDER TOURNEY
TJ Techniques vs Sabrina McKay
TJ Techniques vs Sabrina McKay
| RECAP McKay attacked Techniques before the bell rang, trying to get an advantage over the Funky Technician. She hit him with a snap DDT and pinned but he kicked out. She would hit a move and pin and hit a move and pin but TJ wasn’t having it. Sabrina made the mistake of tossing TJ to the ropes because when he came back? TJ nailed her with Set 'Em Straight (Busaiku Knee Strike)! But he wasn’t done yet, after what she did? He wanted to send a message. He scaled the turnbuckle and BANG! Know The Ledge (Shooting Star Press) to perfection. TJ moves on! WINNER TJ Techniques METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 4:44 FINISHING MOVE Know The Ledge |
BACKSTAGE
Tap tap tap…tap tap tap…tap tap tap…
We hear the sound of three taps upon a metal chain-linked fence. The shot shows us an up close and zoomed shot of a couple links, widening until we can see one side of a fence, indeed. The tapping continues, and the shot slowly widens until we see the Liberty Champion himself, Warren Corbett. He’s all by himself, no other members of The Society in sight. He’s shirtless with torn black jeans, the Liberty Championship over his shoulder. Corbett leans against the fence, coming face-to-face with the camera.
Warren Corbett: Last week, could have been a travesty. I know at the end of the day, everything is as it should be. The Society is both Liberty and Tag Team Champions. But what you tried to accomplish…Antoinette…well, I didn’t think you had it in you, to say the least. To set up a scenario in which not only was I trapped and unable to help my family, but you almost got away with STEALING the Tag Team Championships from us. For those of you who didn’t believe me before, are these the actions of Glenda the Good Witch or the Wicked Witch of the West?
He places his fingers from both hands through the slots of some of the links, grasping onto the metal. He rattles the fence a bit, though clearly not using his full ability.
Warren Corbett: Not many people know this, but being caged like some animal is one of my biggest agitations in life. There’s no way you’d know that, you got lucky on that one. Plus I know the whole point was to get some sort of revenge, but at the end of the day you’ll have to ask yourself if it was worth it, Ant. You may be more dastardly than these people think you are, but you’re still not going to beat US at that game. You may have managed to pull off some elaborate plan but at the end of the day you failed. I’m a free man, and the Tag Team Championships are still where they belong. Plus, it was sweet music to hear on that radio that you were being triple powerbomb through that table…just awesome radio. You tried and you tried and I still came out on top technically. That’s how it’s always going to be for you, Ant.
He steps back, then plants one huge big boot towards the center of the fence. It rattles once again, this time rather loudly, shaking back and forth.
Warren Corbett: In your own perfect world things would’ve worked out and your best friends would be champions. In your perfect world you’d still be Liberty Champion. None of these things are reality. You also like to discredit everything we’ve done to get to where we are as champions. That would be a perfect narrative for you, Ant, and I admit maybe I won the championship in a less than savory way. BUT I still paid my dues to get here! I’ve fought against the likes of Melissa Reeves, Ana Hayden, Honey, and Helena Noir as Liberty Champions. I’ve been inches away from this title for ages, and now it’s finally mine.
Corbett looked disappointed, trapped. He sighed, taking the Liberty Championship off his shoulder and looking at himself in the reflection. He fastens the championship around his waist and then walks along the side of the fence until he finds the connector.
Warren Corbett: You were probably just some hopeful back in those days, Ant. Maybe you hadn’t even graduated high school yet. You know…back when people like ME were putting this company on the map. I’ve more than paid my dues to get here. I’ve scraped, I’ve clawed, and I’ve put several people down that you won’t see around here anymore. Nate betrayed us, he retired. Paz tried to take us out one by one and now nobody has heard from her. I’d sooner see you unable to wrestle ever again before I give up this championship to you…
He takes hold of the metal bar, pulling with all his might and letting out a guttural yell. The bat begins to bend, causing the fencing to warp. He yanks on the fencing with brute force, peeling it back just enough to allow himself through.
Warren Corbett: KNOW THAT!
He yells into the camera, with one hand on the Liberty Championship as beads of sweat fall from his face.
Tap tap tap…tap tap tap…tap tap tap…
We hear the sound of three taps upon a metal chain-linked fence. The shot shows us an up close and zoomed shot of a couple links, widening until we can see one side of a fence, indeed. The tapping continues, and the shot slowly widens until we see the Liberty Champion himself, Warren Corbett. He’s all by himself, no other members of The Society in sight. He’s shirtless with torn black jeans, the Liberty Championship over his shoulder. Corbett leans against the fence, coming face-to-face with the camera.
Warren Corbett: Last week, could have been a travesty. I know at the end of the day, everything is as it should be. The Society is both Liberty and Tag Team Champions. But what you tried to accomplish…Antoinette…well, I didn’t think you had it in you, to say the least. To set up a scenario in which not only was I trapped and unable to help my family, but you almost got away with STEALING the Tag Team Championships from us. For those of you who didn’t believe me before, are these the actions of Glenda the Good Witch or the Wicked Witch of the West?
He places his fingers from both hands through the slots of some of the links, grasping onto the metal. He rattles the fence a bit, though clearly not using his full ability.
Warren Corbett: Not many people know this, but being caged like some animal is one of my biggest agitations in life. There’s no way you’d know that, you got lucky on that one. Plus I know the whole point was to get some sort of revenge, but at the end of the day you’ll have to ask yourself if it was worth it, Ant. You may be more dastardly than these people think you are, but you’re still not going to beat US at that game. You may have managed to pull off some elaborate plan but at the end of the day you failed. I’m a free man, and the Tag Team Championships are still where they belong. Plus, it was sweet music to hear on that radio that you were being triple powerbomb through that table…just awesome radio. You tried and you tried and I still came out on top technically. That’s how it’s always going to be for you, Ant.
He steps back, then plants one huge big boot towards the center of the fence. It rattles once again, this time rather loudly, shaking back and forth.
Warren Corbett: In your own perfect world things would’ve worked out and your best friends would be champions. In your perfect world you’d still be Liberty Champion. None of these things are reality. You also like to discredit everything we’ve done to get to where we are as champions. That would be a perfect narrative for you, Ant, and I admit maybe I won the championship in a less than savory way. BUT I still paid my dues to get here! I’ve fought against the likes of Melissa Reeves, Ana Hayden, Honey, and Helena Noir as Liberty Champions. I’ve been inches away from this title for ages, and now it’s finally mine.
Corbett looked disappointed, trapped. He sighed, taking the Liberty Championship off his shoulder and looking at himself in the reflection. He fastens the championship around his waist and then walks along the side of the fence until he finds the connector.
Warren Corbett: You were probably just some hopeful back in those days, Ant. Maybe you hadn’t even graduated high school yet. You know…back when people like ME were putting this company on the map. I’ve more than paid my dues to get here. I’ve scraped, I’ve clawed, and I’ve put several people down that you won’t see around here anymore. Nate betrayed us, he retired. Paz tried to take us out one by one and now nobody has heard from her. I’d sooner see you unable to wrestle ever again before I give up this championship to you…
He takes hold of the metal bar, pulling with all his might and letting out a guttural yell. The bat begins to bend, causing the fencing to warp. He yanks on the fencing with brute force, peeling it back just enough to allow himself through.
Warren Corbett: KNOW THAT!
He yells into the camera, with one hand on the Liberty Championship as beads of sweat fall from his face.
MATCH TEN: ANARCHY RULES
Jace Mitchell vs Nina
Jace Mitchell vs Nina
| RECAP Jace didn’t want to let this opportunity go to waste. He did everything he could to take Nina down and finally be the one to take the Anarchy Championship from her. He eventually got his hands on the belt and he nailed Nina with it. He pinned her, thinking it was over but NO! She kicked out! He picked up the Anarchy Championship and was ready to go for another striking blow but when he charged? Nina kicked him right in the nuts! She then followed it with Snakebite (Axe Kick)! Nina pinned Jace and that was it, she successfully defended her championship. WINNER Nina METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 8:58 FINISHING MOVE Snakebite |
BACKSTAGE
That faceless cameraman caught up with challenger to the Noir Championship, 'YOUR Favorite Drug' Xavier Laroux as he prepared for his upcoming championship match. Turning his head, Laroux caught sight of the man, a smirk growing across his features. Plucking the ear buds out of his ears, he tossed them to the side in his bag before focusing his attention on the man holding the camera.
Xavier Laroux: 'Here we go ladies and gentlemen, it's time for this week's edition of 'How Can We Fuck Xavier?!'
A hint of disgust grew out across his features as he turned his head, spitting off to the side. Digging into that same bag, he pulled out that black 'YOUR Favorite Drug' t-shirt, the one with the arrow pointed down at his crotch, before pulling it on.
Xavier Laroux: 'I wonder just how Chuck and his little fuckin lackey Robb are gonna tryta fuck me over this time. Now, I know Jade been assurin me that she's gonna make sure ain't shit gonna happen like that. She even went as far as to set up a Special Guest Official for this match..but it's another Hardy. So, I'm sure you can understand why I'm not gonna hold my breath bout the fairness of this match.
McKenna..she said she gonna call it right down the middle and like..some part of me wants to believe her. But look at my last two matches. Fought Ray..Robb cost me the match with his distractions. Fought Jack..Robb cost me the match with his distractions.
You see where I'm goin with this? It's that whole..fool me once bullshit. Nah, see..this time? This time Ima be ready. This time..it ain't goin down like that..I ain't goin down like that..Ray.'
The usually lighthearted expression of Xavier faded out, only to be replaced with a look of seriousness, an almost crazed look in the eyes of Xavier.
Xavier Laroux: 'Whatever happens out there..Ima be ready, Ray. Bring ya daddy..convince McKenna to fuck me over in this match..hell, spring some big fuckin trap on me. I'm ready.. But despite that..Ima warn you Ray. If I get fucked outta this? I'm holdin you personally responsible and I will have your fuckin head.'
Snatching his bag up, Xavier shoved past the cameraman as he walked off, the scene cutting away.
That faceless cameraman caught up with challenger to the Noir Championship, 'YOUR Favorite Drug' Xavier Laroux as he prepared for his upcoming championship match. Turning his head, Laroux caught sight of the man, a smirk growing across his features. Plucking the ear buds out of his ears, he tossed them to the side in his bag before focusing his attention on the man holding the camera.
Xavier Laroux: 'Here we go ladies and gentlemen, it's time for this week's edition of 'How Can We Fuck Xavier?!'
A hint of disgust grew out across his features as he turned his head, spitting off to the side. Digging into that same bag, he pulled out that black 'YOUR Favorite Drug' t-shirt, the one with the arrow pointed down at his crotch, before pulling it on.
Xavier Laroux: 'I wonder just how Chuck and his little fuckin lackey Robb are gonna tryta fuck me over this time. Now, I know Jade been assurin me that she's gonna make sure ain't shit gonna happen like that. She even went as far as to set up a Special Guest Official for this match..but it's another Hardy. So, I'm sure you can understand why I'm not gonna hold my breath bout the fairness of this match.
McKenna..she said she gonna call it right down the middle and like..some part of me wants to believe her. But look at my last two matches. Fought Ray..Robb cost me the match with his distractions. Fought Jack..Robb cost me the match with his distractions.
You see where I'm goin with this? It's that whole..fool me once bullshit. Nah, see..this time? This time Ima be ready. This time..it ain't goin down like that..I ain't goin down like that..Ray.'
The usually lighthearted expression of Xavier faded out, only to be replaced with a look of seriousness, an almost crazed look in the eyes of Xavier.
Xavier Laroux: 'Whatever happens out there..Ima be ready, Ray. Bring ya daddy..convince McKenna to fuck me over in this match..hell, spring some big fuckin trap on me. I'm ready.. But despite that..Ima warn you Ray. If I get fucked outta this? I'm holdin you personally responsible and I will have your fuckin head.'
Snatching his bag up, Xavier shoved past the cameraman as he walked off, the scene cutting away.
MATCH ELEVEN: LIBERTY TAG
NashVillains (Thatcher Ray Nash & Jack Graves) vs Becky Balfour & Seth Lawless
NashVillains (Thatcher Ray Nash & Jack Graves) vs Becky Balfour & Seth Lawless
| RECAP Thatcher and Jack actually have as much experience together as Becky and Seth do, as their friendship and partnership goes back to before TRN was even an adult. They showed this off to perfection, taking turns beating down Seth as each one would make a hot tag to each other. Things got out of hand a bit as Jack’s temper got the best of him and Becky taunted him, mentioning his failed relationship with Rayven. Balfour called Jack a piece of shit and trash. A traitor. Graves couldn’t help it anymore and he tackled Balfour and the two started to brawl outside of the ring, while Thatcher and Seth brawled themselves. All hell broke loose between the four competitors on the outside and the referee called for the bell. Eventually, the roster had to be sent down to break it up. When everything was clear, Becky, who was bleeding from her mouth, spit blood at Jack as she smiled. Jack was able to use his anger and adrenaline to pull himself away from those pulling him away and he got one last shot in on Becky. It was clear that this war was far from over. WINNER No Contest METHOD N/A MATCH LENGTH 7:22 FINISHING MOVE N/A |
BACKSTAGE
Ashley Sands is backstage in her dressing room with her back to the camera for the moment as she holds up something in front of her.
Ashley Sands: Second time in a row in the show’s main event. What better way to show off then with some swag like this for Ant. She’s going to LOVE it.
As she turns around, it’s clear to see that Ashley is holding a shirt that reads “Marky Fuck!” with an arrow pointing down.
Ashley Sands: She’ll just end up saying I’m being dirty again but she should know better than to expect any different from me.
Turning the shirt around to give a view of the back, reading “Here Too” with another arrow pointing down, before she discards it to be draped over the back of a nearby chair. Sitting down on the chair, Sands focuses her attention on the camera.
Ashley Sands: You Society creeps think you’re pretty smart don’t you. “Oh crap, we have to defend the tag titles against a team we can’t just roll over and beat in our sleep. Time to take the cheap way out. Who cares as long as we keep the belts?” Well guess what, I care. Me and Chase care. Liberty Pro has had to settle for just “meh, good enough” for way too long. Those days of settling are over now though along with the stranglehold you’ve had over this place. So if you think we’ll be content with going away and going off to kick rocks then you clearly haven’t been paying attention. That’s what got you behind the eight ball with us in the first place and learning a lesson is obviously not your strongest quality. Your little tricks will only help you for so long until they finally catch up with you and, when that finally happens again, we’ll be waiting to pull the future of Liberty Pro from you dirty grubby little hands.
Looking down at a watch around her wrist, Ashley shakes her as she stands back up.
Ashley Sands: Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going Ant hunting before we rock the main event again tonight.
Ashley Sands is backstage in her dressing room with her back to the camera for the moment as she holds up something in front of her.
Ashley Sands: Second time in a row in the show’s main event. What better way to show off then with some swag like this for Ant. She’s going to LOVE it.
As she turns around, it’s clear to see that Ashley is holding a shirt that reads “Marky Fuck!” with an arrow pointing down.
Ashley Sands: She’ll just end up saying I’m being dirty again but she should know better than to expect any different from me.
Turning the shirt around to give a view of the back, reading “Here Too” with another arrow pointing down, before she discards it to be draped over the back of a nearby chair. Sitting down on the chair, Sands focuses her attention on the camera.
Ashley Sands: You Society creeps think you’re pretty smart don’t you. “Oh crap, we have to defend the tag titles against a team we can’t just roll over and beat in our sleep. Time to take the cheap way out. Who cares as long as we keep the belts?” Well guess what, I care. Me and Chase care. Liberty Pro has had to settle for just “meh, good enough” for way too long. Those days of settling are over now though along with the stranglehold you’ve had over this place. So if you think we’ll be content with going away and going off to kick rocks then you clearly haven’t been paying attention. That’s what got you behind the eight ball with us in the first place and learning a lesson is obviously not your strongest quality. Your little tricks will only help you for so long until they finally catch up with you and, when that finally happens again, we’ll be waiting to pull the future of Liberty Pro from you dirty grubby little hands.
Looking down at a watch around her wrist, Ashley shakes her as she stands back up.
Ashley Sands: Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going Ant hunting before we rock the main event again tonight.
HEADLINE: TAG
Warren Corbett & Dex Morant vs Antoinette & Ashley Sands
Warren Corbett & Dex Morant vs Antoinette & Ashley Sands
| RECAP Society has constantly been able to one up Antoinette, Sands and AMC throughout the weeks. Dex Morant started this match out for his side and he was outmatched but Ant and Ash, who took turns tagging in and working him over. The match took a turn when Warren got in and the giant obliterated everybody. Warren almost got a few close pinfalls on Ant but she kept kicking out. Antoinette soon tagged in Ash when she fought off a legal Dex. Ash took Morant down with Pink Velvet - Lethal Injection! But she didn’t Warren tag himself in! He nailed Sands with Battle Ax (High Impact Spinebuster)!!! He pinned and got the three and the win! Antoinette looked shocked as Warren looked at her and cackled. Another win for Warren over Ant and friends. WINNER #TheSociety METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 14:22 FINISHING MOVE Battle Ax |
BACKSTAGE
We go backstage to see the Noir champion, Rayven Hardy, standing by with a smile on her face and her Noir championship over her shoulder. She waves the camera closer as she rubs her manicured fingers over the plate of the championship.
Rayven Hardy: Looks good on me, doesn't it?
She scrunches her nose playfully.
Rayven Hardy: Honestly, being the Noir champion has been one of the more fulfilling moments of my career. This championship signifies a workhorse. Someone willing to put it all on the line, each and every show. Every match has the highest of stakes, you win? You build your legacy and the legacy of this championship. You lose? You lose the glory, the gold, and you're back to being a contender instead of a champion. It's stressful, but in all of the right ways. That being said, I have a lot of work to do as champion still. Of course, my opponent tonight is someone who would love nothing more than to spoil those plans. You guys know who I'm talking about.
Rayven pauses a bit before dramatically saying the name of her challenger.
Rayven Hardy: Xavier Laroux.
The fans boo the man at the mere mention of his name as Rayven nods her head long with them.
Rayven Hardy: I would say continue to boo him, but he loves it. He thrives off of it. That's the thing about Xavier. He has the capability of being a good guy. He's got a heart, but he turns it off more often than he doesn't. Instead of embracing the love he's often showered with, he runs from it and wants this. He wants the hate. He pushes everyone away that cares about him, and we're left with someone who doesn't give a....you know. The last time we wrestled, you allowed yourself to get distracted. But tonight? There are no excuses. We're not in Canada, we're in Brooklyn. Robb won't be ringside, but McKena will be, someone YOU said you were fine with calling our match. The time for excuses? They are over, X.
We're the MAIN EVENT, and this match is going to go just like our last one: with my hand raised at the end.
Rayven grins and pats her championship.
Rayven Hardy: As for the special ref, I'm honored to have my sister, McKena, call it. I know she will play fair, and at the end of the day, there will be no excuses either way. Sis, good luck. And X? This is your last chance at my championship. Better make the most of it.
With a determined look, Hardy continues down the hallway with her Noir championship proudly over her shoulder. She was ready for battle!
We go backstage to see the Noir champion, Rayven Hardy, standing by with a smile on her face and her Noir championship over her shoulder. She waves the camera closer as she rubs her manicured fingers over the plate of the championship.
Rayven Hardy: Looks good on me, doesn't it?
She scrunches her nose playfully.
Rayven Hardy: Honestly, being the Noir champion has been one of the more fulfilling moments of my career. This championship signifies a workhorse. Someone willing to put it all on the line, each and every show. Every match has the highest of stakes, you win? You build your legacy and the legacy of this championship. You lose? You lose the glory, the gold, and you're back to being a contender instead of a champion. It's stressful, but in all of the right ways. That being said, I have a lot of work to do as champion still. Of course, my opponent tonight is someone who would love nothing more than to spoil those plans. You guys know who I'm talking about.
Rayven pauses a bit before dramatically saying the name of her challenger.
Rayven Hardy: Xavier Laroux.
The fans boo the man at the mere mention of his name as Rayven nods her head long with them.
Rayven Hardy: I would say continue to boo him, but he loves it. He thrives off of it. That's the thing about Xavier. He has the capability of being a good guy. He's got a heart, but he turns it off more often than he doesn't. Instead of embracing the love he's often showered with, he runs from it and wants this. He wants the hate. He pushes everyone away that cares about him, and we're left with someone who doesn't give a....you know. The last time we wrestled, you allowed yourself to get distracted. But tonight? There are no excuses. We're not in Canada, we're in Brooklyn. Robb won't be ringside, but McKena will be, someone YOU said you were fine with calling our match. The time for excuses? They are over, X.
We're the MAIN EVENT, and this match is going to go just like our last one: with my hand raised at the end.
Rayven grins and pats her championship.
Rayven Hardy: As for the special ref, I'm honored to have my sister, McKena, call it. I know she will play fair, and at the end of the day, there will be no excuses either way. Sis, good luck. And X? This is your last chance at my championship. Better make the most of it.
With a determined look, Hardy continues down the hallway with her Noir championship proudly over her shoulder. She was ready for battle!
MAIN EVENT: NOIR CHAMPIONSHIP
Xavier Laroux vs Rayven Hardy w/McKena Hardy as guest referee
Xavier Laroux vs Rayven Hardy w/McKena Hardy as guest referee
| RECAP The main event everyone had been waiting for all night. Xavier Laroux and Rayven Hardy’s match was being called right down the middle as the two battled back and forth, in what could only be deemed as a classic. Xavier hit Rayven with a Narcoterrorism (Bicycle Knee Strike) and pinned but she kicked out! She soon was able to gain traction in the match and she hit X with Sleeperhold Drop (Leads to Skittle Star press)! She scaled the top rope but when she did, Jack Graves jumped the barricade and he pushed Rayven off of the top turnbuckle, sending her flying!!! What is going on!? McKena isn’t sure what to do and before Xavier can take advantage, Jack nailed him with The Hangman’s Call - “Hangman” Backbreaker (Chokeslam Backbreaker)! Xavier and Rayven were laid out and Jack spit on the ground before letting out a bunch of expletives. Jack then gave McKena a nod of approval before he made his exit and the fans boo’d him relentlessly. It’s obvious Graves has now turned a new leaf, one that isn’t a good one. McKena decided to let the match go on though, not wanting there to be any questions of who won this. So she let the two recover. It was Rayven who stirred first and she grabbed Xavier and tried to go for her Sleeperhold Drop again but before she could pull it off? McKena pulled Rayven away from Laroux and McKena nailed Rayven with Pump the Breaks (STO Backbreaker followed by a faceplant)!!!! Xavier and McKena then stared each other down in a tense moment before McKena backed off with a smile. Xavier laid down on top of Rayven and McKena dropped down and counted to three!!! Laroux looked at McKena and gave her a wink before McKena gave Xavier the Noir Championship and raised his hand in the air. Why would McKena turn on her sister like that? Especially for Xavier Laroux??? McKena then pulled Xavier toward her AND GAVE HIM A KISS!!! The fans were in shock and that was how the show ended. WINNER Xavier Laroux METHOD Pinfall MATCH LENGTH 17:22 FINISHING MOVE Pump the Breaks |