Post by Jade Night on Mar 29, 2019 22:04:45 GMT
Live from Oncenter War Memorial Arena - Syracuse, NY.
Night One, 02 February, 2018.
MATCH ONE: SINGLES
Benoite (Team #NoMore) vs Junior Hardy (Team Lauren)
RECAP
Junior and Benoite begin as Junior holds his hand out, insisting that he wants to apologize for the things he has done. Benoite looks at the crowd who shout at her not to shake his hand. She turns her back and nods to them, taking their advice, but Junior makes his move and slams his forearm into the back of Benoites neck, dropping her to the mat. Junior then smirks, clearly proud of himself as he shouts at Benoite that she should have showed some class. As Benoite attempts to make it to her feet, Junior Hardy hits a running dropkick to her face that puts her back on the mat.
Junior maintains his control of the match, lifting Benoite from the mat and hooking her for a suplex that he hits perfectly. Hardy isnt done as he maintains his grip and spins his hips, making it back up to his feet. Hardy then hits a second consecutive snap suplex. Hardy rolls his hips once more and makes it back to his feet. This time, Junior hits a picture perfect bridging suplex with a pin, but Benoite somehow manages to kick out at a two count. Junior doesnt believe the ref is doing his job and argues that it should have been a three count.
The loss of focus on Juniors part ends up benefitting Benoite who takes a few extra moments to recover. She sneaks up behind Junior and rolls him up but Hardy kicks out at a two count. Furiously, he rises up and goes for a big clothesline, but Benoite ducks it and then hits a pele kick to the back of Juniors head that stumbles him forward. Benoite then runs at Junior and hits a bulldog, driving Hardys face into the mat. Benoite rolls him over and goes for a pin but Junior again kicks out. Benoite pushes him back down and goes for another pin, hoping that will tire Hardy out a little more, but Hardy is resilient in his kick out.
Junior takes control back as Benoite attempts to pick him up but is rocked with an uppercut. Benoite holds her jaw with wide eyes as Junior pops up and connects with his Jaded superkick! Benoite falls to the mat...and rolls out of the ring, potentially saving herself from defeat. Junior waits for Benoite to get to her feet. Hardy runs towards the ropes and leaps through them, smashing his right forearm into her face as the crowd cant help but cheer the big time move, even if they have clearly been on Benoites side so far. Junior rolls Benoite into the ring and takes time to bask in the moment, taunting for the fans who now boo him. He slides back into the ring and goes for a pin, but the 18 year old Benoite kicks out.
Junior looks to the top rope and can almost taste victory as he moves towards the corner. He climbs slowly to the top turnbuckle and looks down at Benoite who hasnt moved since kicking out of the pin. Hardy finally leaps from the top, looking for the Hardy splash (frog splash) but Benoite moves and Junior crashes and burns on the mat. He rolls around in agony as both wrestlers begin getting counted out. Both reach their feet at the count of 8 and begin trading blows in the middle of the ring.
Junior was winning the battle of punches until Benoite ducked and managed to hit a russian legsweep. She was still feeling the effects of the punishment she has sustained already and slowly sat up. The ref leans in to check on her as Junior reaches into his tights and pulls out a pair of brass knuckles. Benoite tells the referee that shes okay and as she stands up, so does Junior. Junior swings at Benoite with the brass knuckles but the referee spots it and steps between the two competitors. He shouts to Junior to remove the illegal object from his hand. Junior shoves the ref and is kicked in the stomach by Benoite who then hits Cocytus (Front Flip DDT). She goes for the pin and gets the three count!
WINNER
Benoite
METHOD
Pinfall
MATCH LENGTH
7:57
FINISHING MOVE
Cocytus (Front Flip DDT)
BACKSTAGE
Team No More... Team Lauren Parker... None of that really matters.
The scene faded in, where Craig Anderson was standing in the corridor. His tone wasn't one of excitement, nor was it one of hate. Instead, it was surprisingly neutral.
Craig Anderson: I didn't sign my Empire Pro Wrestling contract to partake in a civil war. I've said multiple times that I couldn't care less about the No More movement, nor what it stands for. I couldn't give a damn about Kenzie Rydell, Spider, or anybody else involved in it. At least, not from a career standpoint. Their careers have had absolutely no impact on my career thus far, and until they do I have no reason to stand side-by-side with them.
Craig, surprisingly calm given the circumstances, let out the briefest of sighs.
Craig Anderson: On the flip side, you have Lauren Parker. I'm not her biggest fan, it must be said. But other than her reluctance to give Jessica the Canadian Championship rematch that I and a lot of other people believe she deserves, I've not got any personal vendetta against her. Some people on the roster feel that they have been personally wronged or unfairly treated by Miss Parker; maybe they have, maybe they haven't. But, like I said. I don't care. I've got nothing against anybody who just so happens to be representing 'Team Lauren' tonight, just as much as I have absolutely no professional connection to anybody representing 'Team No More.'
He chuckled slightly, finally showing some form of emotion.
Craig Anderson: There's not a single person on the roster that I have a problem with; no, not even Zombie Vice Squad. A few bones to pick with them, perhaps a few rich tea-bone suplexes too. But other than that, no. All I want is justice; Jesstice, if you will. I came here for my wife, not me. I don't need the money, I'm not hungry for the fame. She asked me to join her here, so I did. She didn't want to be drawn into any of this any more than I did, but somehow we find ourselves as part of 'Team No More'? I mean, I guess? But we're not looking at it the same way as everyone else is. We don't want to make Lauren lose her job. Is it selfish of us to want her to receive the opportunities that she deserves? Yes, absolutely. But this is a selfish business. I've never won any Championship by standing side-by-side with people in a battle that wasn't my own. This was going on before I got here. The only reason Jess and I find ourselves here in the first place is because of Zombie Vice Squad. They dragged us into it. We'll be the ones dragging them out!
Craig then adopted a slightly more positive tone to his voice, adjusting his posture so that he's standing up straight.
Craig Anderson: But what happens after all of this? What happens after Lauren Parker is, or is not, fired? Well, I may continue to press for Jessica to receive the rematch that she deserves. But tonight, our match against Zombie Vice Squad is to determine the number one contenders to the Tag Team Championships. Let's just say, Jess and I have known Matt Stone and Nessa Wall since before Empire Pro Wrestling or CWC as a whole was even a concept. But how long we've known each other is irrelevant. All that matters is, when the time comes, it will be Jessica and I that send that Stone Wall crumbling down. And when that happens, the crowd won't be chanting No More. They'll be chanting No, More!
The camera faded out to give a quick glimpse of the t-shirt that Craig was wearing, which had Jesstice printed across it. He departed the scene promptly, causing it to fade out.
BACKSTAGE
The cameras cut backstage to Keisha Quickens pacing back and forth across a hallway. She was already dressed to compete, but the look on her face showed she was more nervous about this one than excited by it. She looked near breaking down into a panic when a doorway at the end of the hallway swings open, and through the door into the arena come both Coby and Chelsea Quik. Cheers from inside the arena made their way back to be picked up by the sound equipment, and it gets KeKe to look up. As soon as she spotted the two of them she rushed the short distance to the end of the hallway and through her arms around them, words spilling out of her almost too quickly to comprehend.
Keisha Quickens: Oh my god! I didnt think that you guys were going to make it. It is insane. There are lots of people here. This is like a really big show. Like so big that it is two nights, and I have to compete on both nights, and this thing with Maddux has become like super personal and I dont know what is going to happen in the match and Im kind of worried that it is my first big show and Im going to go out there and
Her mouth kept moving, but she ran out of breath to put any sound behind the words. She finally stopped, and took a deep breath, but was still on the verge of a total breakdown. Chelsea raised her hand in front of her mouth to cover a laugh, but Coby was not as polite. He shook his head and did not even attempt to make her feel better.
Coby Quik: Yeah, this is a big one. If you go out there and let Maddux smack you around tonight, you are definitely not going to make it through tomorrow night without embarrassing yourself. You know what? Maybe just head on home. You dont need to be--
His words got cut off by a thumb to his ribs from his wife.
Chelsea Quik: You are not helping! She is here. This Maddux creep has been pulling his shit for weeks. She deserves to go out there and get some payback for all those cheap shots since she wouldnt let me do it.
KeKe shook her head quickly, and raised her hands up in front of her chest to signal that was not what she wanted.
Keisha Quickens: No. I dont want either of you to fight my battles for me or anything like that. Thats why I didnt come to Empire with Coby. I kind of just wanted to do my own thing. I knew that stuff like this was going to happen. I couldnt always get along with everyone, no matter how hard I tried.
She extends her index finger towards Chelsea and her tone becomes a little more pointed.
Keisha Quickens: ...and theres no need to call him a creep. I dont need to insult him. I dont care about his personal life, or anything like that. Thats not the kind of support that I want. Im not going to be sinking to his level or playing his game. I want to go out there and prove that Im better than him. That yeah, I might have a lot to prove to people, but Im going to do it. This whole thing started because I got that match for the Trials Championship after I did really good my first couple weeks. He never gave me any credit for that. I want to go out and earn that credit tonight. Thats it.
Chelsea reached forward and put her hand on Keishas shoulder, offering her a smile.
Chelsea Quik: If you already know all that, what do you even need us for? Go out there and do that.
Coby shrugged his shoulders.
Coby Quik: Sounds like you already got everything you need up here..
He tapped his index finger on the side of her head.
Coby Quik: ...and I know how hard you have been preparing for this. Just go out there and show all of them what everyone in Jet City already knows.
The worry completely faded from Keishas face, and she forcibly hugged the two of them again before heading off down the hallway to finish getting ready for her match. The camera lingered on Coby and Chelsea as Keisha left though.
Chelsea Quik: Were getting much better at that.
Coby nodded in agreement with her.
Coby Quik: We are going to be awesome parents .
The comment got a glare from Chelsea that Coby had clearly seen many times before. He was Quik (pun intended) to correct himself.
Coby Quik: ...eventually.
Chelsea offered him a shrug, and started to walk away from him.
Chelsea Quik: Im not giving her a pep talk before I get in the ring with her tomorrow
Cobys smile was wiped away, and he shook his head before muttering under his breath.
Coby Quik: Thats so not whats up...
PRE-RECORDED
Its cold outside the Oncenter War Memorial Arena in Syracuse, New York. You could easily tell that from the small clouds of condensed breath coming out from Benoites mouth with every breath she took. Wrapped up in a heavy jacket, the hoodie pulled up over the wool cap and her hands covered by heavy gloves, she was standing by the entrance door, shaking from the cold wind despite being apparently well protected, by God only know how long. With her eyes glued on the street in front of her, the only access to the Arena parking lot, she was clearly waiting for someone. No doubts, that someone was Caleb Houston, the Extreme Champion and her former boyfriend, after the dramatic breakup following the events of Conquest 34. Its been a week since she last saw, or heard, of him. And that goes for everyone else, since Caleb went radio silence isolating himself from the world. With only one hour to go before the show, he didnt make it to the Arena yet, feeding all kind of speculations about the title and the fate of Team No More. Benoite recently stepped up to fill his spot, in case he would fail to show, but Lauren Parker firmly opposed.
Her heart skipped a beat when she heard the engine of a motorbike approaching from east, and lazily turning into the parking lot. She recognized that noise since the very first moment, but she tried to remain calm until the moment she could recognize him.
Benoie: Caleb!
She called out when he passed in front of her. The sound of the engine covered her feeble voice, weakened by the long time spent in the harsh cold and the emotions now overwhelming her. Her eyes wet with tears, she waited for him to step down from his ride and walk in her directions before calling again!
Benoite: CALEEEEEBBBB!!!
A week of fears, worries, frustration and that sense of guilt that started to grow in her after her talking with Auntie Anna Matthews, only momentarily attenuated by Ella Olivers efforts to keep her spirit up, found its outlet in a cleansing cry, while she ran towards him, her arms spread wide open before closing around him in a tight hug.
Benoite: Oh my, Caleb I missed you so much!! Where have you been? I was so worried
His reaction was as cold as this Syracuse night.
Caleb Houston: Oh yeah?
He asked her as he felt his arms tighten around him. It was a welcomed feeling to him. But he quickly backed away not looking to get trapped inside of his feelings. Adjusting his black backpack Caleb took a step back looking down at the blonde.
Caleb Houston: Well I'm fine.. as you can see. Not like it really matters anyway.
He told her. His eyes shifting from her, to the back door of the arena, and then back to her again. He could feel her eyes peering right through him as he replayed last week's episode in his head.
Benoite: It matters to me, silly! And to all your friends. We all were so worried about you.
She said in a broken voice, immediately biting her lips regretting her choice of words. This wasnt about his friends. It wasnt about team #NoMore. It wasnt about anyone else but the two of them.
Benoite: I think We should talk Caleb.
She snuggled close to him, shaking.
Caleb Houston: Talk yeah that sounds good.
Caleb said as he took a few steps towards the back door to the arena. Stopping to look back at Benoite.
Caleb Houston: I don't know about you but I'm not trying to stand out here in the cold.
He told her as he took her by the hand and brought her along with him into the arena. Pulling the hood down from his head as they made their way inside. He took her hand. That small gesture, something that was normal a week ago but totally unexpected now put a big smile on her face, and warmed her heart. Once inside, she lead him to the closest chairs, taking a seat next to him, holding his hand with hers.
Benoite: I I dont really know where to start. I had all my talk ready you know? But now I cant even think, and I dont know whats happening I I am just happy to see you.
She said in tears.
Benoite: I missed you Caleb. Not having you around hurt like hell. I am sorry. Sorry for being such a dummy that I failed to see how all that was pushing us apart. I dont even know who sent those gifts, and I dont even care. They are just stuff to me.
Caleb Houston: Yeah?
He asked her with a sense of hope in his voice.
Caleb Houston: . It's been a long week. I just had a lot of stuff I needed to think about. I saw those gifts. I saw how you reacted when they came in. It had me thinking that there was something else going on.
He told her. There was a quiet honesty in his voice as he spoke.
Caleb Houston: I don't know. You sure you don't know who they're from? Honest?
Benoite: I would never lie to you Caleb.
She rested her head on his shoulder, finally relaxing after a week on edge.
Benoite: I love you, you know that.
She closed her eyes, enjoying the rediscovered closeness.
Benoite: As far as Im concerned, theyre from nobody. I will give that teddy bear to Derek And the necklace
Reaching inside her pocket, she picked up the small box containing the North Star pendant. Caleb glanced at her, not sure why she was bringing that out now.
Benoite: After the show, were going to toss it in the river, and leave this awful story behind ok?
Caleb Houston: Even though I was mad my feelings never changed..
He told her as he tightened the grip on her hand.
Caleb Houston: Whatever we need to get back to normal. Not sure I can really handle another week like this past one as been.
Benoite: I know I cant.
She wrapped her hands around his back and kissed his cheek.
MATCH TWO: SINGLES
Keisha Quickens vs Maddux Kingcade
RECAP
The match started with Maddux and Keisha exchanging words. They closed in and were now face to face. Maddux shoved Keisha back and he struck her with a hard right hook. Quickens came back with a hook of her own but her punch missed and Maddux nailed her knee with a kick, before elbowing Keisha in the face and then the side of her head. Keisha stumbled back in a daze for a moment, trying to give herself a moment to gather herself. Maddux charged but Keisha countered and caught him with hurricanrana from out of nowhere. Keisha then followed this up with by grabbing Madduxs arm and then snapping down with it, causing Maddux to yell out in pain and hold his arm. This caused Keisha to put him in an armbar and Maddux yelled out in pain. Maddux pulled towards the ropes and was getting close, causing Keisha to get off of him and pull him up before dropping him with a clothesline.
Keisha pinned Maddux but Kingcade kicked out just after the two count. Keisha went to pick Maddux up but Kingcade shoved her off before he followed it up with a dropkick that saw Quickens dropped to the canvas, chest first. Kingcade then delivered several kicks to Keishas midsection, causing Quickens to roll around, holding onto her stomach. Maddux dragged her up and looked for a suplex, but Keisha blocked and broke free, landing an arm drag with their hands still locked together. Keisha pulled Maddux up but Maddux ducked down to one knee and swiped her leg out from under her, grounding her. Maddux looked to drop the elbow but Keisha countered it and rolled backward. Maddux charged and grabbed Keisha, driving his knee into her gut before lifting her up for a suplex but Keisha countered and landed behind Kingcade. Keisha grabbed Maddux and whipped him to the ropes. Maddux came back and went for a clothesline but Keisha ducked it and hit the ropes on the other side. The two then met in the ring and took each other out with brutal clotheslines to each other.
The fans were going nuts for the match, as both competitors lied there for a moment before they both started to get to their feet. Maddux tried to land a punch of Keisha but Keisha sidestepped it before dropping Maddux with a Russian Leg Sweep. Keisha grabbed Kingcades ankle and dragged him into position before climbing the turnbuckle. Before she was even at the top, Maddux had already scrambled to his feet. Kingcade charged and caught Quickens off balance, launching her with a massive belly-to-belly suplex, flinging her halfway across the ring. Neither stirred for a few moments. Maddux rolled to his side and then crawled over, hooking the leg, but it was only a two count before Quickens kicked out. Maddux stood and stalked over Keisha and when she stood, he charged and went for the FYG Elbow but Quickens ducked it and when Maddux turned around, she hit him with a super kick.
Maddux dropped to one knee before he stood, holding his jaw, and staggered forward. Keisha then lined him up and nailed him with Quiksand (Buzzsaw Kick), and hit it with full effect. Keisha pinned Maddux but he got kicked out just before the three count. Keisha couldn't believe it. She decided to hit the top ropes before she leaped off and nailed Smackshot (Front Flip Diving Leg Drop) and she hit it to perfection. Quickens pinned Kingcade and finally secured the pinfall and the three count.
WINNER
Keisha Quickens
METHOD
Pinfall
MATCH LENGTH
8:52
FINISHING MOVE
Smackshot (Front Flip Diving Leg Drop)
BACKSTAGE
As the broadcast shifted elsewhere, so does the tone as Kenzie Rydell wasted little time beginning to speak with the close up camera shaking in her grasp.
Kenzie Rydell: You think I wanted to be inserted into this match just because of a spat you had with Lauren Parker once you realized what I already knew? I couldn't stand the thought of Spider lying down for me at Conquest 33 but this? C'mon. Let's face it. I'm in this match as your punishment, not because I earned it. And you know damn sure that it eats me up inside. It hurts to know I couldn't get it done on my own but I'm done making excuses.
The words she spoke were aimed at Molly Reid herself as she neglected her usual anthem of hope for a passionate explanation on her feelings heading into the main event of No Man's Land coated in anger and sadness as she bares all of her emotions to everyone who would listen. Her heart was firmly on her sleeve as she wasted no time at all continuing to speak without a pause.
Kenzie Rydell: I'm given the opportunity of a lifetime but just because I got put in this match by a pissed off Lauren Parker out of my control, the common retort is that I don't belong in this main event but let me tell you something, okay? This is nothing new! I've been dealing with that feeling my entire life!
Her voice started to get louder as she let it all out, her emotions peaking by the moment.
Kenzie Rydell: I was born into a military family. Do you even know what that means? It means thanks to my dad being forced to move across the country every couple years or so by the Army, we were always flung into getting a new start and let me tell you something: it's not as glamorous as it might sound. We weren't thinking about the fact that we were going to see all the corners of the United States and maybe even beyond if we were lucky, no. We were thinking about the fact that every single time we needed to move, we were abandoning the friends we've made along the way and almost every single damn time we claimed we would keep in touch despite the fact that I'd be halfway across the country, it would just end in disappointment! Do you know what it's like to be a kid who can't even keep the friends she made along the way just because she was forced to move to another school every couple years or so? And sometimes it was after as little as six months. Do you know what it's like to start feeling that maybe it's pointless to ever try to pretend that the place where you are is 'home' just because it's where you are since you knew in a few short months, you'll be forced to drop everything and leave again?! Probably not. It's not the subject of any mainstream movies or primetime television shows but that's the cycle I called home for as long as I can remember. It was a constant feeling of knowing I didn't belong only to end up leaving just when I thought I was starting to get comfortable and that's exactly how it's stayed long after I was finally able to move out.
Her hazel eyes started to twinkle as she explained her situation to the best of her ability.
Kenzie: My Mom always used to tell me that God won't put more on me than I could handle but it was little solace in the face of the fact that I never felt like I belonged but the fact is that over time, I grew stronger because of it. I got used to the situation and I started to adapt to it. I started to thrive when I realized I had the opportunity to meet all these different kinds of people and live in parts of the world that I thought I would only see in pictures. And It took a while but eventually, I... I let go of the notion that I would be able to keep the friends I made longer than I stayed.
She wiped the tears from her eyes with her sleeve.
Kenzie Rydell: In my current line of work, I accept the fact that all of the friends I make are temporary. It's not an immediate acceptance but... Well, you know that tired trope of those uncaring wrestlers with the square jaws and the 5 o'clock shadow looking into the camera like...
Kenzie relaxed her shoulders and tightened her throat to sound a little deeper.
Kenzie Rydell: "I'm not here to make friends."
She gave her best impression of a gruff loner complete with the steely eyes and even going so far as to adjust her jaw. Once Kenzie snapped back to being herself, she chuckled a little.
Kenzie Rydell: That mentality... It's toxic but there's a truth buried behind its macho machismo. In a community where turning on your friends has become a rite of passage, there comes a point where you need to accept that the friends you have right now are great but one of these days, someone's going to come along who acts friendly at first but sooner rather than later, they'll let their true motivations bubble to the surface and show you... something ugly. Something disgusting about them that makes you realize you need to appreciate the good times you had with them but ultimately, you need to move forward. Whether it's them siding with someone you wouldn't or even as straightforward as them outright making a mockery out of you for whatever reason, you need to move on and that's always been the same.
She took a deep breath and refocused herself.
Kenzie Rydell: I thrive where I don't belong and when this night is over... with the pressure mounting on my shoulders and my opponents constantly laughing at everything I have to say... I'll make the most of it. I'll make the most of the opportunity I wasn't supposed to be given and I'll thrive just like I did during all those fresh starts I've been reliving since as far back as I can remember. I'll take the snarky comments in stride and I'll stick 'em down both of their throats when I walk out of the Korakuen Hall with the Empire Championship in my arms!
She paused. Her eyes scanned the floor as the speech looked to near its end. Just as everyone thought the broadcast would switch to something else, she began to speak again with passion.
Kenzie Rydell: When I fought Molly Reid in the 60-minute iron woman match... I was unfocused, to use a word from Misha's vocabulary. I used the brunt of the energy I had at the beginning of the fight to gain two points with a pinfall and a submission. That's not an excuse, that's the cold hard facts and...
She paused again, searching for the words.
Kenzie Rydell: I'm reminded of the words said by the current Empire Champion, Molly Reid, at Conquest 34...
She smiled softly at the thought, passionately reciting the words said by one of her opponents not too long ago.
Kenzie Rydell: "We all make mistakes, right? Ive learned from it, and I wont be making the same one again!"
With a smile behind the tears of passion, Kenzie swiped her arm towards the camera to signify she was done.
BACKSTAGE
Ruby Lance was making her way through the backstage area with her phone in her face. Her expression was one of panic as she typed at a furious pace. Either aggressively Twitter or texting someone in crisis, she wasn't paying attention to where she was going but was aware enough of her surroundings to know she had reached a table. She hit send on whatever she was typing up and the hopped up on the table to have a seat.
SPLAT!
Ruby Ugh
She looked down at her seat which was a plate of spaghetti now wedged between her bottom and the table.
Voice: I was going to eat that
A tired, and now sad, raspy voice said from down the hallway a little bit. Approaching the stack of tables where Ruby had just taken her seat was Caleb Houston.
Caleb Houston: oh hey Ruby
Caleb said a slight chuckle escaped his lips as he saw the look of disgust on Ruby's face. The spaghetti squishing underneath her as she moved around. Holding out his right hand Caleb offered her the towel from around his neck.
Ruby Thanks
She stood up and accepted the towel, looking back at her spaghetti behind. She started to wipe it off, shaking her head in disgust.
Ruby I can't believe this! Tomorrow I'm in the biggest match of my career, I have all these people on social media counting on me, my own boyfriend can't even be here for it, I can't be in Rome for his match and now I have spaghetti all over my pants!
Ruby huffed her annoyance, grimacing at how much the towel isn't doing for the stain on her rear-end. She shook her head, pouting a little like a petulant child before she glanced over at Caleb watching her.
Ruby Oh! Uh I mean, sorry. Thank you for the towel! Sorry for the spaghetti. And the little rant. That was uh, that was just a rant.
With a nod and a sigh, she gave up on her efforts to cover up how whiny she just came off a moment. Shrugging his shoulders Caleb leaned back against the tables. Picking up a handful of spaghetti he rubbed it on the tank top.
Caleb Houston: See spaghetti .. nothing to lose sleep over.
Caleb offered her a hesitant smile hoping to lighten the mood. Shrugging his shoulders Caleb looked down at the young wrestler knowing the rant was a little bit more than just spaghetti fueled.
Caleb Houston: Well, even though you two can't physically be at the shows I'm sure you'll at least be able to watch one another on TV and cheer from afar.
He told her. The struggles of being a professional wrestler, and in a relationship, were not lost on him. Crossing his arms in front of his chest Caleb thought about the card for tomorrow night.
Caleb Houston: Well, you've been training for this match right? Probably waiting your whole life for that moment, too?
Ruby Oh! Of course. I mean, it's not my first title opportunity. Or my first battle royal. Although, I haven't exactly been successful in battle royals. I mean, how many people really have been? Especially when you compare it to how many have been in them. You know, because it's already like 10 or more people and only one winner!
Ruby cringed at her rambling and turned it into a perky smile rather than her pouting from moments ago.
Ruby I mean listen to me rambling on and on like some rookie or something. Not that I'm a veteran or anything like that. Heck no! This month right here marks my one year as a professional. Isn't that crazy? I mean, not crazy. It's just whatever. I'm sorry. You have a very important match tonight and one tomorrow. You probably want to get some more spaghetti so you can get ready for that.
Caleb just shrugged his shoulders as his eyes glanced over at the plate of spaghetti before returning back to Ruby.
Caleb Houston: No, it's okay. I wasn't really all that hungry anyway. My eyes were kind of bigger than my stomach there for a second.
He told her as he brushed the remainder of the noodles off of his shirt.
Caleb Houston: Battle Royals can get pretty hectic out there. A couple words of advice? Keep your head on straight. Don't try to overwork it out there. Just do what got you here in the first place and you'll be just fine. It's the people who always try to change their whole style up for that one match that find themselves out quicker than it started.
Over the last 11 years Caleb spent wrestling he had seen, and done it all, multiple times over. He had found himself recently shifting out of wrestler mode, and into coach mode more often.
Caleb Houston: Sure, this is a big moment, in an intense match, for you. Yeah, there's a lot of people who want to see you succeed. But just remember when that music hits the moment belongs to you, and it's only going to be as big as you make it. Try not to let any outside forces distract you from that.
Ruby listened intently to Caleb's words of advice, nodding along as she absorbed the information.
Ruby Right. Thanks! That actually really helps a lot.
She nodded again, a little more confident than she had been thus far in this conversation. She glanced down at his shirt, stained with spaghetti, and smiled before using his towel to wipe at it. It did nothing to help with the stain, just like the one on her pants.
Ruby I'd offer to take that and throw it into the wash for you, but I don't want anyone getting the wrong idea, you know?
Caleb Houston: No, it's fine. I think it gives the shirt . Character.
He told her as he looked down at his white shirt admiring the newly acquired artwork on it.
Caleb Houston: Plus, it will come in hand if I get hungry for a midnight snack. But anyway so Ruby Lance .. Empire. How's that going for you? Everything you hoped and dreamed it would be?
Caleb asked her. Hoping to shift her mind from her big match coming and giving her some solace, even if it was only for a few minutes.
Ruby Um well too soon to tell?
She asked more so than said, which she realized quickly was silly.
Ruby What I mean is, check in with me in a couple weeks and I'll have a better answer for that question.
Caleb Houston: Yeah, I get it. Still in that feeling out process. But you'll get over that in about 24 hours when they hand you that gold belt.
He told her. Hoping to assist build her confidence heading into the match.
Caleb Houston: Get ready though it's going to put a huge target on your back. Everyone is going to be coming out of the woodwork to try and make themselves relevant.
Ruby I guess we'll see. That's the silver lining if I don't win, I suppose.
She flashed a smile, showing that she just joking around even if she were mentally preparing herself for a win and a loss just to be safe.
Ruby Anyway. Good luck out there. Maybe I'll see you around depending on where the fall takes place.
Caleb Houston: You know what you're right. You might want to make sure your locker room door isn't hanging wide open.
He said to her with a smile. As he offered her a friendly smile before raising his right hand into the air for a high five which she gave a hearty slap to.
Caleb Houston: ..but hey good luck! If you need any words of wisdom, need to just yell at someone, or anything like that before the match just let me know. I'm sure I'll be around ..
Ruby Yeah. I'll, uh, make sure it's not spaghetti day before I do that, though. And yeah. Try and steer clear of the women's locker room. I need to change into something less spaghetti-stained and I'd rather that not be televised.
She said with a laugh, looking back at the stain with disappointment. It really was unfortunate and looked terrible.
BACKSTAGE
Tim Anderson: Helena!
The tattooed swedish wrestler stopped on her track and turned to meet the Liberty Pro interviewer, Tim Anderson trotting toward her. She didnt seem too pleased to see him, at least judging by how she rolled her eyes.
Helena Noir: Hey Tim! Let me guess, you have a few questions for me, and you are wondering if I have time.
He nodded.
Helena Noir: Im not really in a talking mood tonight But I guess we can try something quick.
Tim Anderson: Oh, yeah sure! I promise I wont steal too much time from you. Lets start with last week, when you were facing Warren Corbett for the Anarchy Championship. Everyone thought you had the match won, locking the current Champion in your Fondu Au Noir, with nowhere for him to go And then Isabella Strickland came from out of nowhere and assaulted you, in what could be seen as a sort of payback for what went down in your tag match at Liberation 18
She raised her hand in front of the interviewers face, shutting him up.
Helena Noir: Thats bullshit Tim and you know it. It wasnt payback, it was just another chapter in this thing between me and Strickland. Its the same old song and dance, started back at Liberation 11, when she decided to gift Anastasia Hayden with a number one contendership at my expenses. Things have been spiraling since then, we got at each others throats so many times I lost count. But I can tell you one thing Tim, tonight Im writing the final chapter of this book.
Tim Anderson: But isnt it frustrating to have your title opportunities constantly ruined by someone interference? Before last week, it happened also when you faced Ashleigh Powell for the Gotham Championship, and Jakob Alexander costed you the match.
Helena Noir: Im not obsessed with gold Tim. I never had to ask for a title opportunity and I never will. I will keep doing my thing, and earn another shot. Trials, Anarchy, Gotham, Liberty, im not picky and I dont believe in second or third tier championship. Its whoever holds that strap that defines its value. And you can bet that, from the moment I put my hands on any of it, my only goal will be making that one the title everyone aims for.
Helena stared right into the camera, her eyes burning with the passion and determination that always characterized her.
Tim Anderson: You forgot to mention one title though. The newly christened CanAm championship that will be on the line tomorrow night, in the Battle Royale opening night two. How much would it mean for you becoming the first ever person to hold it?
Without any hesitation, probably expecting that question, she replied.
Helena Noir: A huge honor, of course. Its an interpromotional title, that means new challenges, new opportunities and most definitely more chances to prove that I am one of the best, in Liberty Pro and Empire. Truth being told, Im not a big fan of Battle Royals. Things can get chaotic real quick, and, as you know, I like to control the pace of my match. Its going to be hard, if not impossible, to do that tomorrow night, but that doesnt mean my opponents should count me out.
Im not the youngest, Im not even the most experienced. I have no friends or partners I can count on. I could say that Im the most determined, but I dont like to lie. Tomorrow is all about making history, I refuse to think that anyone of the 23 names in that match will be less than one hundred percent focused and determined to be the last person standing and walk out with the prize.
So whats going to be the difference maker? The ability to capitalize on opportunities. Being able to forget about bonds and rivalries, realizing that youre out there on your own and you cant afford even the slightest hesitation, if you want to succeed.
Tim Anderson: And you think you will be the one?
She smiled, patting the interviewers shoulder.
Helena Noir: You will have to wait until tomorrow night to know the answer.
And that was her cue. The camera followed her disappearing down the hallway before cutting to the next segment.
MATCH THREE: TAG TEAM
#1 Contender, EPW Tag Team Titles
Craig & Jessica Anderson (Team #NoMore) vs Kowloon & Siberia Zombie (Team Lauren
RECAP
Craig and Kowloon Zombie were the first two competitors in the action. The two men circled one another in the ring throwing short jabs as they worked on feeling one another out. Each one of their heads snapped back with each landed shot. Kowloon was the first one to mount any sort of offense when he drove a strong knee to the right side of Craigs ribcage before flipping him to the mat with a strong belly to belly suplex. Popping back up to his feet Kowloon begged Craig to get back up. As Craig made his way up to his feet Kowloon came in with strong kicks that backed Craig into the corner. Pushing back against the turnbuckle Craig fired out with a strong right hand that seemed to rock Kowloon. Having Kowloon on his heels Craig was now able to use his speed to put the match in his favor. Gracefully flipping through the air Craig drove Kowloon into the mat with his Arse over Tit, but he was not able to pick up the three count. Visibly gassed from the pace of the action Craig ran over to his corner and tagged in Jessica.
Stepping through the ropes Jessica went right after the downed Kowloon. Leaping high into the air before driving both of her heels into the chest of her opponent. Allowing Jessica back up to her feet she Irish whipped Kowloon into the ropes, but on the rebound he was able to leapfrog her before catching her with a strong bulldog on the rebound. With Jessica laid out face first on the mat Kowloon made the move toward his corner bringing Siberia into the action. In the early stages of her turn Siberia was able to keep Jessica on the mat where she worked a magnitude of different submission holds on her legs. Trying to take away Jessicas biggest asset in the match. Jessica would not give up. She fought through the pain, and refused to tap out. Finally Jessica was able to kick Siberia away from her before scurrying to her feet.
Jessica worked on mounting a comeback, but was quickly halted with a strong shoulder block from Siberia. With Jessica back on the mat Sibera grabbed hold of both of her legs and held them apart as she drove a strong heel stop into the stomach of Jessica. Letting out a groan of pain Jessica rolled over onto her stomach and struggled to make it back to her corner. Desperate Jessica and Craig reached out to one another, but it was just too far away. Siberia was able to grab hold of Jessicas ankle and pull her back to the center of the ring as she flipped Jessica over onto her back Siberia was greeted with a strong upkick which provided enough distance for Jessica to finally get Craig back into the action. Amped up Craig came flying into the ring dropping Siberia with a strong clothesline, before turning his attention to Kowloon on the apron firing rights and lefts at his head which sent him collapsing to the canvas below.
Focusing back on Sibera who had now made it back to her feet, but she was quickly on her back after a strong Kicks Out For Harambe to her chin. Again Craig attempted the pin but Siberia was able to get her left foot on the bottom rope. Frustrated Craig pulled her back up to her feet and delivered a strong European Uppercut. Over the next stages of the match Craig and Jessica were able to keep Siberia trapped in their corner of the ring. Mixing in strong offense and quick tags they began to wear her down. Neither Craig nor Jessica were able to keep her down for the count. With Jessica now the legal competitor in the match Siberia worked on pushing herself out of the corner, but Jessicas speed proved to be too much for her. Throwing those quick feet Jessica was able to guide the match exactly where she wanted it. Popping up to the top rope Jessica leaped off and landed a huge driving crossbody, but Siberia was able to transition that right into a pin attempt of her own. Kicking out just before the three count Jessica looked shocked as she rolled over to her knees. Siberia inched her way over to her corner making a tag to Kowloon at the same time Jesssicas hand connected with Craigs. The two men came into the ring each one of them throwing fists of fury at their opponent. None of the wild strikes causing too much damage to their opponent. Spinning Craig around Siberia was able to drive him across his knee with a strong tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. After imposing his will upon Craig on the mat Kowloon caught him in a roll up and, unknown to the referee, hooked the tights of Craig to pick up the three count.
WINNERS and NEW #1 contenders for the EPW Tag Team Titles
Zombie Vice Squad
METHOD
Pinfall
MATCH LENGTH
9:54
FINISHING MOVE
Roll up
BACKSTAGE
The camera cut to a shot of Molly Reid, standing backstage in her wrestling gear with her Empire Championship belt slung over her shoulder. She looked focused, prepared, ready. If there were nerves, she wasnt showing them.
Molly Reid: So here we are. No Mans Land, the War Memorial Arena, Syracuse. New York. First Empire match outside of Canada. A joint show with Liberty Pro. A main event with me, defending my championship as usual. Against Misha LeCavalier, a deserved opponent. And also Kenzie Rydell. An undeserved opponent.
Molly took a deep breath as she looked around before staring back into the camera.
Molly Reid: Let me make one thing clear. Lauren Parker and I were never close. We were never friends. She was my boss. Thats it. We never hung out outside of the arena, we never called each other up late at nights to talk, nothing. When I first won the Empire Championship, you all booed me. You all hated me for what I did to Paz. Even though I told you that that was exactly what was going to happen if we had that match, but none of you cared. I brutalized Paz Guevara. Ended her career. Lauren saw the lengths that I would go to to win. She respected it. She knew I would never hold back. She came to me and told me that. She said she wanted to throw me a big ceremony to commemorate my win. Was it over the top? Absolutely. But I was angry and frustrated. Mad that everyone was so shocked and angry over what I did despite me telling them what I was going to do. So I said ok. I agreed to do the ceremony because I knew it would piss you all off even more. Petty? Of course it was petty. But I didnt care. If you were going to hate me, I wanted you to hate me for something I actually did. Not because you were mad at me over something stupid that you made happen. It seems obvious looking back that Lauren was just using me as insurance and protection.
Molly stopped for a moment and made a point to adjust her title belt on her shoulder, grinning slightly.
Molly Reid: Having the top wrestler in the company on your side as you do whatever the hell you want to drive your own ego is quite the protection. Lauren knew that and she used it to her advantage as she tried to destroy Spiders career, and Calebs, and plenty of other shit she did here. I mostly just sat back and let it happen, never really spoke out against it. I just sat back and watched it happen because I thought they could handle it. That this was simply just a part of wrestling that you needed to learn to overcome on your own. But that was wrong. I was wrong. What Lauren was doing was wrong. While Im a big proponent of action over all else in wrestling, Lauren went out of her way to make sure that Spider couldnt succeed no matter what action she took. Lauren did everything she could to cost Spider every match she was in, to make sure Caleb couldnt compete and lose his title, all that shit. But she failed. Spider is still a success, Caleb is still a success and tomorrow night theyre going to end Laurens reign over Empire. And this is one time where Ill be happy to sit back and watch it happen.
Molly grinned as she applauded to herself.
Molly Reid: But in one last desperation act last week, Lauren decided to mess with me. See, she realized she couldnt control me like she does her other pawns. She tries to act like I need her. But guess what? I didnt need her when I won this title. I didnt need her help in defending it. In fact, Ive never needed anybody's help in that ring. And even if you all hate me for it, I think you can at least agree with me there. I leave it all in the ring each and every night. Nothing comes easy to me and I work for everything. That wont change tonight when I take on Misha and Kenzie and defend my Empire Championship.
Molly smacks the belt forcefully in anticipation for the triple threat match.
Molly Reid: Theres really not much to say about Misha. Shes in this match for one reason and one reason only. She earned it. While the title of best wrestler in Empire is up for interpretation, I dont think theres many arguments against me for the most successful. But Misha might have one. Look at what shes done in wrestling overall. She won the CWC International Championship in October, and what has she done since? Only defended it six separate times. She won the SSWA UK Cup and as such will get a chance to become the SSWA World Champion whenever she wants. And then theres Empire. Her impressive win against her cousin at Code Red. And then those weeks ago, beating Jay Sinclair and Gray Malone to earn herself a shot at my title. Yeah...Misha has earned her shot. Shes as tough as they come. I know this first hand after I wrestled her all those months ago and beat her. I cant coast off that though because shes far better now than she was back then. I saw it first hand again when we were in the ring together last week. Misha is as good as they get and Ive got one hell of a fight coming tonight.
Molly stopped for a moment and frowned as she thought about her other opponent tonight. She shook her head.
Molly Reid: And then theres Kenzie Rydell. The undeserving one. Look, Kenzie has talent, theres no doubt about it. She earned her title shot before Code Red. Shes beaten some big names in Empire. Shes solid in the ring and I respect what she can do. But I dont respect Kenzie. I cant stand listening to her talk. I cant stand reading her tweet. Its all such a mess. Everything she says, I half expect her to apologize for two minutes later, or delete the tweet. Shes so concerned with making sure that everyone likes her that she doesnt know what shes trying to be. She acts nice to everyone, tries to compliment and congratulate people, even people that try to cripple her sister. But then as soon as her sister calls her on it, she apologizes and backs down. So who are you being sincere to Kenzie, your sister or the girl who tried to hurt her? Because you cant have both. Even though you clearly seem to try. Youre trying to please everyone but at the same time play on everyones pity for you. And then theres your god damn confidence. You bring it up so much. As if you were the first person to not be confident in themselves so you think you have this profound realization that its ok to be confident. No Kenzie, that's not how this works. You dont just decide to be more confident. You need to LEARN to be more confident. You need to BECOME more confident. Youve done absolutely nothing recently that should give you any more confidence in yourself because the truth of the matter is that youre not at the level that Misha and I are at. Youre not at Empire Championship level. And nothing youve done since you lost to me at Code Red should have given you any more belief that you are. Yet now youre going around trying to trash talk Misha and I and making jokes and acting like youre all but assured this Empire Championship. Youre trying to act like us even though youve never once been anything like us. Youve tried to change yourself because you think that will help you win, but youre wrong. Nothing youve done is going to help you in this match. Because youve done NOTHING. You havent shown any wrestling improvement. Youre just pretending to be more confident in yourself but then will back down as soon as youre called out on it. Thats not confidence. You dont apologize if you truly believe that youre going to win, but you do. Because youre lying to yourself. You dont know what youre trying to be. You dont know what you are. But I do.
She nodded her head at the camera.
Molly Reid: Youre a selfish, insecure little bitch Kenzie Rydell.
She paused to let that sink in before starting up again. She was a lot angrier than she was when she started talking, and when Molly got angry you knew it was only going to get worse.
Molly Reid: What have you done since you got to compete at my level? All youve done is try to make everything about you. My ceremony, you interrupted it because you were so jealous that anyone but you was getting any kind of attention. You stole that tiara so that everyone would focus on you. Because youre so freaking insecure that you need everyones attention all the time. Changing your entrance song? Better tweet it out and beg people to tell you how great it is. Make a joke that nobody laughs at? Better retweet it yourself and mention how funny you thought it was. IDK maybe Im just weird but I thought it was funny! Shut the hell up. Hold on, I think its about time you tell everyone that you need to be more confident for the eighth goddamn time this week. And you might as well apologize now and take it back because thats all you do. You waffle back and forth on what youre trying to be like a transformer with tourettes. Or look at the match with Spider? Are you kidding me? You held an entire show hostage because you couldnt believe youd actually have to EARN a shot at my belt again. I honestly wouldnt be surprised if you faked your own attack so that everyone would feel sorry for you and put you in this match out of pity. Because you knew you wouldnt be able to beat Misha. And even tonight, its all about the pity party for Kenzie! Oh my dad moved around because he was in the military, do you guys know what its like to move around and have to restart your life every few years?! Please feel sorry for me, I had it so hard! Bitch do you know what its like to grow up without a mother when she abandoned you after you were born because shed rather shoot up heroin than take care of you? Or how about having your dad murdered? No? I dont care either way. This isnt a contest. The point is that youre out here seeking pity all the god damn time Kenzie. EVERYONE HAS HAD STRUGGLES. You havent had it harder than anyone else in this fucking company and yet you act like everything has been against you from the start. Youre sad, youre insecure, and youre trying to emotionally manipulate everyone. I dont know if you can see it, but I can. Everyone can. You dont know what you want to be.
Molly shook her head and seemingly tightened her grip on her championship belt. She seemed to be growing angrier the more she spoke about Kenzie.
Molly Reid: Hell, even your friends know what you want to be better than you do yourself! The only and I mean the ONLY reason you are in this match is because of Spider. She did everything for you and you did fucking nothing. She was the one who suggested that you two not wrestle in that match. She was the one who got you into Laurens head so much that you were the first name that came to mind when she wanted to punish me. You better be thanking the hell out of Spider for everything because without her, you wouldnt have a match tonight. Hell, even just thanking her for not wrestling you in that match. Because Ive seen Spider wrestle and Ive been in the ring with you. And I KNOW, I dont think, I know that if you two had wrestled that match, Spider would have won. Shes the better wrestler. She would have beaten you and you would have no title shot tonight. So thank her Kenzie. Thank her for even getting a chance.
Molly applauded Spider to the camera, giving the Great Lakes Champion the respect she deserved for what shed done and how shed been the one to actually get Kenzie that chance.
Molly Reid: Im done with this. Kenzies overall shittiness has me too heated. I was looking forward to one hell of a match with Misha for my title. Now? Im still looking forward to it but now we have to deal with this insecure little rat who was absolutely gifted this chance. She doesnt belong. But thats just the cards we were dealt. The bottom line is this. Ive been wrestling in Empire for about seven months now. Only two people in Empire have ever beaten me cleanly, and Ive avenged them both. Nobody in this company has done what Ive done so far. There is lots of talent in Empire. I dont believe Ill hold my title forever. One night Ill lose it. But tonight is not that night. Kenzie will fail. Misha will make me work harder than Ive had to work inside this ring since I came here. But in the end, itll be my hand raised. It will be my fourth title defense in Empire. And it will be MY Empire Championship. Still.
With that, Molly pushed the camera out of her way and walked off screen.
MATCH FOUR: SINGLES
Helena Noir vs Isabella Strickland
RECAP
The two women start to circle the ring to kick off their match. Helena Noir is at an obvious size disadvantage as Isabella Strickland tries grabbing onto Helena Noir, but Helena is just quick enough to avoid the larger competitor. Helena hits Isabella with a plethora of strikes and kicks but eventually Strickland catches Helenas leg before dropping her with an exploder suplex. Isy went for the pin but Noir kicked out after the two count. Isabella showed off her wealth of experience as she showed that she had her rival, Helena, scouted throughout the match by countering several strikes and moves. Helena eventually caught Isabella by surprise when she was taunting the fans and she took her down with a zig zag. Isy stumbled back to her feet and Noir took her out with a jumping roundhouse kick.
Noir pinned Strickland but Isy kicked out after the two count. Helena picked Isy up but Isabella hit her with a thumb to the eye, causing the referee to warn Isabella. Isy shrugged the referee off before she hit a big brainbuster that puts Helena down and she tries for a pin, but to her surprise, Helena kicked out early into the count. Looking for a repeat, Strickland lifted Noir right back up into another suplex position, but Helena floated over and rolled the massive Isy up for a two count. Helena started to gain momentum as she hit Isabella with a series of kicks and strikes before hitting the ropes and then taking Isabella out with a slingblade. Isabella began to get to her feet as Helena hit a springboard moonsault that took Isabella down and allowed Helena to keep control of the match. Keeping the much larger woman down isnt an easy task, and when Isabella got up to her knees, Helena took her out with a hurricanrana driver. Helena pinned Isy but Strickland kicked out after two,.
Helena hit the top ropes and she leaped off, going for a frog splash but Isabella lifted her knees in the air and they connected with Noirs ribs. Helena struggled to her feet, as did Isabella. They fought in the middle of the ring before Helena whipped Strickland into the corner. Helena backed up into the corner across from Strickland before charging forward, looking to go for a spear but Strickland launched out of her own corner with a Hellfyre Lariat! Perhaps taking too long, Helenas slip up costs her big time as Isabella brings her back up and drops her with the Lady Death (Vertical Suplex Piledriver). Helena looked done as Strickland pinned her and the referee was right about to count to three when Noir got her foot up on the rope. Isabella began to celebrate her victory when the referee waved her off, telling Isy that Helenas foot was on the ropes.
The two began to argue back and forth as this gave Helena a chance to get back to her feet. Isabella noticed and she charged Helena, going for her patented big boot but Noir ducked it. Helena turned around and was met by a hard knee to her gut from Helena. Noir then nailed Isabella with Fondu Au Noir (Cradle DDT into a Guillotine Choke) and Isy struggled in the hold, refusing to give up. Isy reached for the ropes but it was no use, she was stuck in the middle of the ring with nowhere to go. Strickland refused to tap as Helena tightened her locked in hold. Isy soon stopped struggling as she ended up passing out from the hold. The referee lifted her hand up in the air and it dropped, causing the referee to announce Helena Noir as the winner of the match via submission.
WINNER
Helena Noir
METHOD
Submission
MATCH LENGTH
9:47
FINISHING MOVE
Fondu Au Noir (Cradle DDT into a Guillotine Choke)
BACKSTAGE
The camera opens to show Anastasia Hayden with her newly won NJFC Global Championship resting on her shoulder. Theres an arrogant grin on her face as she looks into the camera.
Anastasia Hayden: No Mans Land, what a night, right? They fly me all the way out to New York to face...Ella Oliver? Ella, what did you do to deserve this? Theres no amount of training in the world that would make you prepared for tonights fight...or more appropriately, tonights bloodbath. The fact that Im coming here to waste my time with you? Thats a slap in my face and all the hard work Ive put into my career. But I cant complain too much I guess...I get a chance to drive my boot through another pretty young skull.
Her smirk widens a bit at the thought.
Anastasia Hayden: What is it with your type, Ella? So consumed with having this social media presence...I dont fucking need that. I dont have to make a name for myself posting cute little selfies and playing Twitter tag with people...I make my name in the ring. While you were playing dress up and being little Detective Ella? I was in Japan winning the NJFC Global Championship. While youre queueing up your next bikini picture, Ill be setting up to win the 4CW Championship and the Liberty Championship.
As Ana says that, she takes the opportunity to adjust her shoulder, and highlight the Global Championship laying there.
Anastasia Hayden: Its kind of amazing, isnt it? In the span of two months, Ill have accomplished more than youve done in your entire career. But now you get the highest honor any of these fucks could have...and thats facing Anastasia Hayden. Fuck the Breakout shit, fuck all that CWC noise, and everything else in your pitiful career, Ella...Im the biggest star here and Im the biggest star youll ever face because after I beat you tonight...youll slump right back to the pit of pity you belong in.
Ana shrugs and scoffs.
Anastasia Hayden: But dont blame me. Blame everyone here for setting you up for failure. Blame them for making you think that you even remotely stood a chance against me. And maybe, someday, when you grow a spine...youll become a bit like me. Youll become a winner. Youll actually have some worth in your life. But until then? Youre just fodder for me. Just another skull waiting to be caved in by me. And after I win, Ill go on to continue being excellent and youll...well, I dont really give a fuck one way or another what you do next.
Another shrug from Ana and a brief chuckle. Her smile widens some more and the volume of her voice picks up like some ringleader at a circus.
Anastasia Hayden: Gather round to witness the rise and quick demise of Ella Oliver at the hands of the Grand Duchess, Anastasia Hayden!
Ana bows at the mention of her own moniker before she winks at the camera and heads off.
MATCH FIVE: FIRST BLOOD
Gray Malone (Team Lauren) vs Jay Sinclair (Team #NoMore)
RECAP
The match began with Jay taking the fight to Gray, back him up with multiple stiff shots to the head. Gray kept his arms up to prevent any big shots from landing to his face as Jay continued to throw punches. Jay eventually grabbed Gray by the arm and whipped him across the ring. Jay didnt waste time and followed Malone across the ring, clotheslining him down to the mat almost immediately after he rebounded off the ropes. Jay dropped down and began to drop elbows across Grays face, trying to cut him open. Gray had his hands up to protect his face however, so none of the shots could land properly.
Jay continued to keep Gray grounded but was unsuccessful in doing any serious damage. Eventually Jay got to his feet and walked over to the corner of the ring. He began to undo the padding covering it and threw it aside, leaving just the exposed metal turnbuckle. Jay turned around to walk back towards Gray, who had gotten to a knee. But suddenly Gray exploded out of his kneel to deliver a spear that may have knocked the wind out of Sinclair. Gray got to his feet and stomped on Jays head a few times to make sure he was down, before walking over to the ropes. Gray climbed through them and hopped outside, going under the ring and pulling out a couple of chairs, throwing them into the ring. He also took out a bag and set it in the corner of the ring before sliding back into the ring.
Gray began to maul Jay before he could get to his feet. Gray used his technical skills to hold him on the mat while trying to deliver elbows and kicks to Jays forehead to cut it open, but to no avail. Gray eventually stood up and lifted Sinclair to his feet. Malone hooked Jays head and tried to deliver a DDT onto the steel chair but Sinclair managed to escape the hold. Jay looked to take Gray down with a clothesline but Malone ducked underneath it. Before Jay could turn around, Gray wrapped his arms around his waist and threw Jay across the ring with a german suplex. Jay landed backfirst onto the other chair and immediately arched his back in pain.
The next few minutes saw Gray in complete control of the match. He continued to keep Jay on his back and prevented him from getting any offense in. Jay managed to protect his face well enough however to prevent any cut opening up. After deciding that he needed to try a different tactic, Gray dragged Jay so that his face was resting on one of the chairs. Gray picked up the other chair and walked over to Sinclair. He reared back with the chair and delivered a con-chair-to, but Jay rolled out of the way at the last second! Gray dropped the chair and shook his hands in pain as Jay got to his feet and grabbed the other chair. Jay swung back and delivered a huge chair shot square to Grays head that dropped him!
Replays showed that Gray got his hands up to his face just in time, preventing the chair from landing flush or cutting him open. Still, the damage was done as Gray lay on his back in pain. Now it was Jays turn to take control of the match as he began doing his best to bust Gray open. However Gray did a good job avoiding any chance of being busted up. Eventually Jay got to his feet and brought Malone up with him. Jay grabbed Gray and lifted him up, before launching him into the turnbuckle with an IDGAF (fall away slam into turnbuckles). Gray slumped to the mat as Jay gathered himself for a moment.
Jay quickly slid out from under the ring and went looking underneath. When he came back out he was holding a package of glass light tubes. Jay slid back into the ring with the tubes and walked over to Gray. He grabbed Malone and leaned him in a seated position in the corner. Jay pulled out a few of the tubes and placed them over his face resting on the ropes. Sinclair walked across the ring and lined up Gray in the corner. He sprinted towards him and delivered the Last Dragon (running boot to corner opponent), but Gray ducked at the last second! Jay kicked through the glass tubes, shattering them as the glass shards fell to the outside floor.
Gray quickly stood up as Jay was still caught in the ropes, trying to free himself. Gray grabbed the back of Sinclairs head and smashed it hard into the exposed turnbuckle. Jay collapsed to the mat as the referee checked, but found no blood. Gray used this time to pull out a few more light tubes. He also grabbed a chair and lay it down in the middle of the ring, before placing light tubes on top of it. Gray turned back towards Jay, who seemed quite shaken up still. Gray laughed at Jay and then turned away from him to taunt the crowd. But this was all the time Jay needed as he suddenly summoned the strength to get under Gray and lift him onto his shoulders, before slamming him down with the Jaypocalypse (electric chair powerbomb)!
Unfortunately for Jay he had missed the chair and light tubes in the middle of the ring, so no blood was found after the referees inspection. The two wrestlers lay in the ring for a bit, neither moving. Eventually Jay began to stir first. He saw the light tubes in the ring and began to crawl towards one, grabbing it and looking back at Gray, who was getting to his feet. Jay stood up and waited behind Malone, the glass tube in hand. As Gray turned around, Jay swung the glass tube and smashed it right across Grays face!
The crowd fell into a silent shock as they realized that not only was Gray not bleeding, he was just staring right at Jay. It was as if the glass tube had just angered him even further. Jay tried to make the first move but was met with a swift but hard kick between the legs that doubled him over. Gray then lifted Jay up onto his shoulders, walked towards the middle of the ring and delivered the You Lose (powerbomb piledriver) right onto the glass tubes and steel chair!
The crowd booed loudly as the referee rolled Jay over and called for the bell as blood was starting to stream down his face.
Suddenly Gray shoved the referee out of the way and began to rain punches down on Jays already bloody face. The crowd booed even louder as Jenson Idol, Katie Anderson, DeAngelo Dalton and Junior Hardy all ran down the ramp and slid into the ring. The five members of Team Lauren were stomping and punching a helpless and hurt Jay. Gray motioned towards the bag he brought into the ring early in the match. Junior walked over to it and opened it, dumping a bunch of tacks onto the mat as the others lifted Jay up to his feet. They all began to lift Jay onto Grays shoulders to set him up for a powerbomb onto the tacks.
Suddenly the crowd cheered loudly as Rayven Hardy, Ella Oliver, Caleb Houston and finally Spider all sprinted down the ramp towards the ring. Caleb had a kendo stick in hand as he slid into the ring first and began to slam it into DeAngelo and Junior as they tried to exit the ring in a hurry. The four members of Team #NoMore grabbed Jay and helped him to his feet as the five member of Team Lauren regrouped outside the ring, slowly retreating up the ramp as the nine wrestlers screamed at each other in anticipation for the huge match tomorrow night.
WINNER
Gray Malone
METHOD
First blood
MATCH LENGTH
18:13
FINISHING MOVE
You Lose (powerbomb piledriver)
BACKSTAGE
: Hey!
Just as the broadcast flickered back to the ring, the crowd was suddenly caught off guard by the sound of a feminine voice coming from the sound system. The lights dimmed aside from a few pink and chartreuse spotlights swirling across the crowd, almost searching for the source of the voice but as the camera zoomed in on the center of the ring and then panned to the stage, no one could be seen.
: Look up! Above the ring!
The camera shifted suddenly to the catwalk high above the wrestling ring and as everyone saw Kenzie Rydell sitting down with her legs dangling nonchalantly hanging off the edge with a huge smile on her face, everyone in the building was terrified she would fall down to the ring far below.
Raising the microphone back to her lips, she addressed everyone watching No Man's Land with a proud grin as the grip with her opposite hand kept her steady on the precarious position.
Kenzie Rydell: Tonight... I have the opportunity to become the Empire Champion so I took every piece of advice I've been given heading into this life-changing match and the fact is... Misha LeCavalier was absolutely right! You can be confident in your abilities and be sure of your impending victory without disregarding the immense skill of your opponents.
A yellow-green spotlight aimed directly at her as she spoke to everyone watching with an assured grin.
Kenzie Rydell: It's a balancing act - the difference between confidence and arrogance separated by a fine line that almost made me too afraid to even remotely show confidence without the caveat of throwing in a self-deprecating remark right after it. It's just like when I was afraid to climb up here but ever since the former Empire Champion Paz Callaghan did the same to illustrate the point that she was above everyone else back at Conquest 4, I wondered what that would feel like. I wondered what it would be like to fearlessly put my life in the balance with so much conviction and so much confidence that I wouldn't even flinch but now that I'm up here... I gotta say, it's pretty exhilarating!
The crowd cheered but obviously, most of them were still worried about her safety.
Kenzie Rydell: I'm not up here as an allegory to say I'm above each and every one of you... I'm not up here to showcase Empire Pro's inept security either but I'm confident Lauren Parker won't be around for long after tonight to punish me for climbing up here thanks to the incredible group of people who represent Team No More! No...
She shook her head back and forth as she glanced around the building at each and every member of the crowd watching her right now.
Kenzie Rydell: I'm here because I wanted to prove that I could do it. I'm up here because I wanted to conquer my fears. It's one thing to say you're more confident than you used to be but it's another thing entirely to sit up here and prove it!
Her legs swung back and forth like she was relaxed.
Kenzie Rydell: I believe in my wrestling abilities. I believe I can fight the best of the best here in Empire Pro and beyond. It's not blind faith and it's not an egotistical brag either. I've always sworn I would always be honest with you and in turn, honest with myself. And after hearing both of my incredible opponents tonight at one point offhandedly remark that I was one of the best competitors within Empire Pro, I knew I needed to stop thinking otherwise. I needed to start becoming more confident in myself if I ever hoped to become the Empire Champion... if I ever hoped to become anything more than I was yesterday... and all the thoughts I had that told me the contrary were holding me back!
The crowd cheered once more as Kenzie excitedly exclaimed her feelings for everyone to hear.
Kenzie Rydell: Before I fought Molly Reid in the 60-minute iron man match, every single comment I made about how I would leave the building with the Empire Championship around my shoulder were all just things I said because I thought maybe if I said them enough, I would believe it. I thought maybe if I told myself I could do it enough times, that nagging voice in the back of my head telling me I would fail would finally go away but now... The voice is silent.
The Paragon Of Empire Pro softly spoke as she thinks things over for a moment.
Kenzie Rydell: All that I think about is envisioning myself with the Empire Championship in my grasp and the mountains of information I discovered while researching my opponents' past matches. All that I think about is how I need to fight smarter, not harder this time around unlike the 60-minute iron man match where I let my inexperience in those kinds of matches hinder me instead of carefully planning out the correct way to save my endurance for when I needed it. All that I think about is how I need to enter the triple threat with a plan, a backup plan, and a thousand other backup plans but at the same time, I've gotta make sure I'm thinking on my feet. I need to fight with my brain in tandem with my heart more than I've ever done and most of all, I need to permanently get rid of all the doubt clouding my mind that might ruin me seconds before I could have won the match.
She tilted her head and scanned the crowd for a moment again.
Kenzie Rydell: And no, the plan isn't to bring the baseball bat to the ring. I trust in my technical abilities, my high flying maneuverability and my ever-growing repertoire of martial arts techniques to propel me forward. I don't need to bring a weapon to the match in order to accomplish the goal I've set for myself and frankly, I'm ashamed the thought even entered my mind.
With a deep breath, she made sure not to look down as she stayed high above the wrestling ring.
Kenzie Rydell: Just know... When I become Empire Champion tonight... It won't be the end of the journey. It won't be the destination I've set for myself but it's certainly a key moment that I've wanted to reach ever since I started wrestling professionally two years ago. I know the voice is going to come back if I don't keep fighting against it and I know once I become the Empire Champion, I need to improve even more if I ever hope to keep the championship because I know damn well that everybody in Empire Pro will be gunning for me but you know what? I welcome the challenge! I welcome the opportunity to show why I've been dubbed The Hope Of Empire Pro and if there's one promise I can make to all of you right now, it's this:
Kenzie's voice grew more intense as the crowd continued to roar in approval, quite possibly cheering for her louder than anyone else during the night.
Kenzie Rydell: I promise... I will never let you down and I will always be true to myself! And when the Empire Championship comes home with me tonight, I want you to remember I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for your support. None of us would be in this building if it wasn't for you spending your hard earned money to watch us week in and week out.
The spectators cheers grew louder in ferocity and praise as Kenzie spoke directly to them from her heart.
Kenzie Rydell: It won't be easy. Nothing worth doing is ever easy, right?
The audience agreed.
Kenzie Rydell: I'm competing against two of the best competitors in not just Empire Pro but CWC as a whole. That's not debatable, it's the truth. And tonight... I prove I'm in the same category when I become the Empire Champion.
With that, Kenzie Rydell carefully stood up and walked back down the catwalk with her arms outstretched to keep her balance for just a moment. As she kept on walking, however, to everyone's shock, she dropped her arms and confidently disappeared from the camera's view
BACKSTAGE
The picture quickly came to life as the audience was quickly introduced to a backstage shot of the Oncenter War Memorial Arena. Liberty Pros own Anarchy Championship number one contender, Coda, eyed another woman across the locker room from a seated position. Her dark eyes vaguely looked in her direction without making eye contact and as words exited the opposite womans mouth, Codas eyebrows raised.
Mari Moon: Look When you said that this was what you wanted to do with your life, I supported you. I didnt understand it but I supported you every step of the way because thats what sisters do, but this?
Maris words were panicked as she addressed her sister from the comfort of the backstage area. Coda listened carefully to her words.
Mari Moon: Warren Corbett isnt messing around here. Hes willing to do whatever it takes to keep that stupid belt you seem to care about so much and you know damn well The Society wont be far behind! Youre gonna get yourself hurt out there tomorrow night and one of these days, youre going to be so banged up after a match that not even I can patch you up.
Coda: I have fought bigger and stronger. I have fought more talented opponents countless time before and this is when you decide to speak up?
Mari sighed.
Mari Moon: And now youre just underestimating him... If I learned anything from my stint in medical school, its that you should never underestimate what might be wrong with a patient or else youll surely miss something. And when it comes to Warren
Coda: I am aware of his abilities. Others refer to him as the best Anarchy Champion to hold the championship within Liberty Pro and I cannot argue with this assessment. However, I am confident in myself. I do not care if The Society rush to the ring to help him nor do I care if every single follower joins the fight. I will still overcome and I will still become the Anarchy Champion.
There was no hint of doubt in Codas words as she spoke simply to her sister, crossing her arms as she sat on the floor with extended legs outstretched towards the center of the room. Mari, on the other hand, looked significantly less confident.
Mari Moon: Just be careful. Thats all Im saying. When its over, you know what to do. Come back here and Ill do what I can to give you the proper treatment.
Maris words sounded mundane despite the words, almost like shes said the words a thousand times before. A thin veil of sadness coated the words as well, a worried sister concerned for Codas safety.
Mari Moon: If it gets too much for me to handle, were going to the hospital when its all over, okay? I dont want to hear any complaining.
Coda grunted, frustrated at the sound of that.
Coda: I do not like hospitals.
Mari Moon: I know We do what we need to do, right? Safety is important.
Coda refused to respond, eyes sternly glaring at the floor between her legs. Honey begins to wander in with her Super Falcon Style t-shirt on, looking at the special battle royale poster with all her opponents shed face tomorrow when she begins to hear all the very tail end of the exchange. She looks up to see Codas shoulders tensing up and Mari getting equally frustrated.
Honey: Ummmmm...what are you girls doing?
Coda remains silent but her eyes dart towards her friend.
Mari Moon: We were just talking, Honey. What about you? Are you enjoying the show tonight?
Honey nods a little and keeps a little watchful eye on Coda before answering politely.
Honey: Mmhmm! Im, like, scouting the competition tomorrow since some are fighting tonight. And then the BIG triple threat match tonight! I never ever get to fight Kenzie in the ring. Like,
Honey looks down at her shirt
Honey: I didnt get to face her in the super falcon tournament and now this double bubble event she is in a different match and I am wrestling, like, tomorrow and stuff.
But Honey cant keep her eyes darting to Coda, who usually chimes in with some inspiration for Honey.
Honey: Hmmmm
She then narrows her eyes, completely forgetting about her dream match against Kenzie Rydall to focus on Coda.
Mari Moon: Im sure itll be a great match.
Mari answered half-heartedly, obviously not really a fan of wrestling but of course she still wanted the people she knew to be successful.
Mari Moon: Dont worry so much about Coda. I just got finished telling her that if things go south in her match against Warren tomorrow, we might have to take a trip to the hospital.
Coda chimed in, repeating the words she spoke earlier with the same tone.
Coda: I do not like hospitals.
Honey shows to Coda the recent injuries she suffered at the hands of Hammerstein in Mexico, her back having a little bit of tape on to keep her bandages in place where shed met the sting of barbed wire steel cage.
Honey: You dont want to, like, be all hurt and stuff, Coda. Doctors only want to help, like they helped me, otherwise I might not have been able to compete tomorrow. But I followed their stuff and Im almost tip top condition!
And Honey takes a small seat down next to Coda, facing her with her legs straight out too.
Honey: And we have seen how, like, Melissa Reeves got all bloody in her BIG battle against Becky. The Society are very, um, scrappy and stuff. So Mari is just trying to be a concerned sister for you, like me too!
Coda looked over at Honey beside her and with some hesitation, she spoke again.
Coda: I suppose you are not wrong.
The Destroyer glanced back up at her sister again.
Mari Moon: Honey If Coda needs to go to the hospital after her match with Warren, would you like to go with us? I think she could really use the support.
Honey, without any hesitation, smiles wider at the honor of being asked.
Honey: I will! Coda helped me backstage once when we wrestled and stuff, and if she doesnt like hospitals, maybe shell be better with me there and stuff.
Honey then looks to Coda to see if shes ok with Honey coming, in the event she should need to.
After some thinking, Coda finally responded.
Coda: This would be nice.
Honey squeaks and turns to Mira excited and happy.
Coda: However, I am confident this will not be needed.
Mari sighed and Honey looks back at Coda.
Mari Moon: Im sure theyll let you take the Anarchy Championship with you.
This made Coda smile and Honey lightly claps seeing the two sisters being so lovely to each other.
BACKSTAGE
Backstage we see the wrestler's entrance to the arena, just in time for the door to swing wide open and for Ella Oliver to rush in! She wears her Detective's deer stalker hat and an "I Love Miami" t-shirt over her ring gear, and looks like she's just ran here from the airport, judging by the suitcase she dragged behind her.
Ella stopped behind a backstage crewperson, tapping him on the shoulder. He turned.
Ella Oliver: Am I too late?! Have I missed it?!
Crew: Missed what?
Ella Oliver: My match, silly! Against Ana Hayden! Match Two of the "Ella Oliver is gonna wish she didn't wrestle three matches in one day tomorrow" crazy tour!
Ella quickly caught her breath after that mouthful of words.
Crew: No I think you've got time, just g-
Ella Oliver: Thanks!
Ella swung the suitcase up into her arms and ran off screen, leaving the Crewman looking confused and mildly startled.
MATCH SIX: SINGLES
Ana Hayden vs Ella Oliver
RECAP
Perhaps it was the brevity of the match at hand, but in any case, the fans were treated to a more aggressive Ella Oliver than the Empire crowd had been accustomed to. She charged Anastasia and launched a swift flurry of palm strikes. Anastasia got her hands up to block, which caused Ella to alternate between body and head shots. After a stiff strike to the cheek, Ella delivered a push kick that sent Anastasia into the ropes. The young woman lept into the air as Anastasia rebounded and caught her with a dropkick right underneath the chin. Ms. Oliver went for the pin, but Anastasia easily kicked out at one.
Ella attempted to lift her opponent up, but a starch knee lift took the wind out of her sails. A mildly pissed off Anastasia then began to go to work. A stiff shoot kick to the chest rocked Ella and nearly dropped her, but she gritted her teeth and stood tall. This caused Ana to clock her with a forearm shiver and then sternly whip her into the corner. A running forearm found its mark and dropped Ella to the mat, which elicited a wicked smirk from Anastasia. She blasted Ella with two kicks to the chest before she lifted up her boot and placed in on Ellas cheek. A face-wash ensued. After the last boot scrape, Anastasia shot herself into the ropes and looked to connect with a running kick. However, Ella surpised Ana as she sprung to her feet and caught her foot. Ella reeled back and drilled with Anastasia with a chop. Anastasia responded with one of her own. There was a short exchange, but Anastasia was the victor as caught Ella off guard with a nifty spinning-backfist. She then yoked Ella up and sent her crashing into the nearby turnbuckle with a release Northern Lights suplex.
Ms. Hayden scored a couple of nearfalls as she maintained control of the match. She then went back on the offensive as she connected nice striking combination followed a Yakuza kick. Anastasia hit ropes and looked to clobber Ella as the young woman regained her footinga thudding high roundhouse kick halted Ana in her tracks. Ella took Anastasia to the mat with an inside-cradle; Anastasia kicked out of the pin at two. The 4CW and Liberty Pro star attempted to make it to a vertical base, but she had her left knee kicked out from underneath her. Ella hit the ropes, rebounded, and took Anastasia to the mat with a hurricanrana driver. Foregoing the pin for a moment, Ella sprung back to her feet. She quickly sized Ana up before she nailed a standing moonsault. She pinned her opponent, but Anastasia kicked out at two.
The former Empire Tag Team Champion looked to put Anastasia away as she ascended to the top rope. Ella made sure Ana was in position before she leapt off the ropes with a picture perfect Ellasault (moonsault). Unfortunately Anastasia had been playing a bit of possum. She quickly got to her feet and caught Ella in midair. Before Anastasia could capitalize, Ella was able to spin and reposition her body. As quick as a flash, she planted Ana down with a satellite DDT. It took a moment for Ella to follow up with a pin, as the look on her face indicated that she was shocked herself that she was able to pull off the move. She did make the cover, but Anastasia kicked out at two.
Ella road that momentum and used it to connect with couple quick attacks. A couple of strike flurries. A swinging neckbreaker. But all of that came to a stop when she tried to send Anastasia into the corner. Ana was able to pivot, jump into the air, and drill Ella with her Magnolia Knee (bicycle knee); the force of the strike caused Ella to drop to her own knee. Some members of the audienced let out a gasp at the sound the strike had made. Their worries didnt bother Anastasia shot herself into the ropes and rebounded with a running strike. Anastasia went for the pin, sure that shed sealed the deal. But just as the referees hand was coming down for three, Ella was able to roll and pop her shoulder off of the mat. Her tenacity cause the fans to come unglued as they cheered wildly.
Then came the close of the match. Both wrestlers made it back to their feet. Anastasia fired in a nasty forearm and rocked Ella. But to the young womans credit, she stood tall and returned fire. Ella began to get the advantage as they went back and forth. She started to really lay in her strikes with rapid succession, until Anastasia countered with a blinding rake of the eyes. The referee tried to admonish her, but Anastasia ignored his words as she spun Ella around. A Black Star (reverse frankensteiner) sent Ella to the mat. Anastasia as able to get back to her feet as Ella made it to a knee. Although she was exhausted and in pain, there was defiant look in Ellas eyes; she still had a sliver of fight left. Ana acknowledged her heart with another smirk as she shot herself into the ropes. She Was Only Seventeen (running single-leg dropkick) connected and sent Ella down to the mat. Anastasia pinned her opponent and watched as the referees hand hit the mat three times.
WINNER
Anastasia Hayden
METHOD
Pinfall
MATCH LENGTH
14:27
FINISHING MOVE
She Was Only Seventeen (running single-leg dropkick)
BACKSTAGE
The young Empire Pros rookie Benoite was walking backstage, a big smile from ear to ear. Her night started off in the best possible way, with the reconciliation between her and Caleb, and kept going on a high note when she was finally able to get her first win against Junior Hardy, in the opening contest of No Mans Land. The only thing left to complete a perfect night now would be Caleb beating Katie Anderson and confirming himself as the Extreme Champion.
: Benoite
She turned to the sound of that warm voice calling her name. A man walked into framing, dressed in a long black coat, blonde slicked hair and a flashy golden ring around his finger.
Benoite: Y-Yes?
She stuttered, visibly daunted by the mans intimidating presence.
Man: I saw your match. You did good out there. You have a lot of talent young girl, and a true passion. Im sure you will go a long way.
Something was off. He sounded aloof, cold, in clear contrast with the complimentary words you just pronounced.
Benoite: Uhm thank you sir!
She tried to as friendly and kind as she could possibly be, despite the clear discomfort. At least until she saw the symbol carved on his garish ring. A North Star, just like the pendant she received one week ago.
Benoite: You.. You sent me all those gifts Wh-what do you want from me?
Terrified,, she started retreating, soon finding herself stuck in the corner. She stared at the man with her eyes wide open, keeping her arms extended in front of her in hope to put and keep some distance between them, although the man didnt seem ill-intentioned. Quite the contrary, keeping a somewhat out of place aplomb, he looks at the young girl with a warm smile.
Man: Yes, Benoite. It was me. Ive been waiting for this moment for a long time, I lived it so many times in my dreams. God only knows how much I craved for this opportunity to talk to you to
Benoite: STOP!!
She yelled, but her voice came out way less strong than she expected, less powerful than she hoped for, muffled by that lump in her throat. No way anyone of the No Mans Land security staff heard her.
Benoite: I I am going to Scream if you take
She started considering her options. Run, fight, try calling for help once more. But the truth was she was feeling almost paralyzed. By fear mostly, but at the same time a twisted curiosity, the need to find the answers she was subconsciously looking for.
Man: Fear not, DArcy.
DArcy That one word, her middle name she never told anyone about, not even Caleb made her heart skip a beat. How could he know? Who was he? Reading those questions in her eyes, he smiled, reaching inside his pocket.
Man: Benoite DArcy Louvet
He handed her picture. Benoite looked at it, going through an outpouring of emotions she couldnt even define. Through the tears veiling her eyes, she recognized a younger version of the man now standing in front of her holding a newborn girl. And next to him, her mother Edith.
Benoite: D Dad?
The man nodded.
Man: Daughter. It took me eighteen years, but I finally found you?
Benoite: But where have you been all this time? Why didnt you come to see me earlier? And why all those mysterious gifts?
She was a lot calmer now, but at the same time more eager for explanations.
Man: So many questions, and no time to answer them. Come with me DArcy. I promise I will explain everything.
Benoite: But
She looked back from where she came from.
Benoite: Caleb Hes like My boyfriend And Ella, Spider, all my friends, team No More I need to be here, for them
Man: I know what you are feeling right now. Everything is going to be alright, do you hear me?
She nodded, looking at him. She really had her fathers eyes.
Man: But this fight you got yourself into Thats THEIR fight, not yours. My daughter deserves much better. Youre destined for greatness, Benoite. Come with me.
Benoite: But
Man: You will be back soon Benoite.
She barely whispered ok, before following him towards the door.
BACKSTAGE
Zombie Vice Squad are finishing getting ready for their match. Kowloon and Siberia look at each other and nod. They walk out into the hallway and see Kenzie Rydell all by herself looking at her phone. Siberia looks around but nobody else is there. She motions for Kowloon to follow her quietly. Kenzie is focused on her phone and doesnt hear them. Siberia raises a fist and slowly inches towards Rydell. Finally, she taps on her shoulder and smiles when Kenzie turns around. Kenzie steps back ready for a fight.
Kenzie Rydell: Great! Just what I needed right now. The Zombie Vice Squad is here to make sure I dont make it to the main event. Dont you guys have anything better to do?!
Sarcasm dripped from Kenzies lips as she addressed the pair.
Siberia shakes her head at the acquisition, refusing to get in a fighting stance.
Siberia Zombie: Hi Miss Rydell. We just wanted to make sure that you are not to expect us in your sisters groups match against The Society. We are confident that it will be a fair match since The Society is out to prove themselves. They should be enough to control Ascendancy. They are united and they will certainly be able to handle many a baseball bat perhaps? We know how desperate your people are to be acknowledged.
Kenzie Rydell: You got it all wrong. Megan and I mutually decided to keep our distance when it comes to wrestling. Were two different people. So no, I wont interfere in a match that doesnt involve me. What the two of those teams do is their business, not mine. Ive got an Empire Championship to win in the main event, so excuse me if all of my focus is on that instead.
Siberia Zombie: It is of no consequence. As we said, we just wanted to warn you in case you see too much. We do congratulate you on your success. Just know that you will always be second best and accept this. Might be third best in your case with Molly Reid and Misha LeCavalier. Unfortunately. You do show some promise but are woefully unprepared for this level of competition.
Siberia smiles and knocks Kowloon on the shoulder looking very smug.
Kenzie smiled to herself, looking elsewhere for a moment to find the thoughts she wanted to say out loud.
Kenzie Rydell: Ive heard that about a million times before and those are just the times I told myself that. You two can believe whatever it is you want to believe but its not stopping me.
Her hazel eyes grow more intense.
Kenzie Rydell: Im not gonna get an underdog complex but the fact is that I dont need to compare my self-worth based on how much better or worse other people think I am based on other people around me unless Id rather spiral down the rabbit hole of doubt. All I need to do is stay confident in what I can do and usurp Molly Reids Empire Championship from her tonight. You got a problem with that? I know your overlord Lauren Parkers got some newfound mutual differences with the current champion right now so I gotta wonder where you stand in all this.
Kowloon Zombie steps up to her to look down into her eyes.
Kowloon Zombie: You know where we stand. We will always stand with her. Lauren Parker has had the right vision for this company from the very beginning. This was a very decadent place before we arrived here. You might not have been privy to this given your inferiority complex, but this place was just oozing with disrespect. We came at just the right time to restore order and put people in their place. If the current champion is not in favor with Lauren then we will do what needs to be done if asked.
Kenzie nodded but she took a step forward.
Kenzie Rydell: Youre not wrong. There was a lot of disrespect in Empire Pro before all of this went down but to be honest? I feel like it tripled since you and Parker started down your power trip. I mean, look at the Spider situation. Look at what happened to Caleb. You dont think thats adding to the feeling of unrest in Empire Pro?
Kowloon Zombie: Power trip? This is no power trip. This is a reality check. Miss Parker has the best interests of this company and its fans at heart. She saw an organization being run roughshod by narcissists and egomaniacs. She had to put a stop to it so she had to get a little aggressive. It is a shame that this started a small rebellion but it does not matter who stands in the way. We will not stop until there is order.
Kenzie Rydell: I suppose its good to finally get some answers about all this.
She stretched her arms while she continued to speak.
Kenzie Rydell: If what you guys wanted was to stop this place from staying in the hands of who you call narcissists and egomaniacs... Why wasnt it me Lauren Parker tried to side with instead of Molly Reid? It just seems to me like shes more of what you guys tried to avoid, no?
The Hope Of Empire Pro took another step towards the pair.
Kenzie Rydell: You guys walked yourself straight into the same problem just because you thought I wasnt cut out to be the Empire Champion.
Kenzie used air quotes with her fingers.
Kenzie Rydell: And youre surprised people like me started to stand against it all?
Siberia Zombie scoffs and Kowloon steps back.
Siberia Zombie: So you stand against us because you were not chosen? That seems really petty and probably the very reason that you were not supported. You lack the certain factor that is required of a champion. It isnt the skill or the confidence that you dont have. It is the influence of a champion. People just cant get behind you, Kenzie. When people look at you they see a crybaby. They see themselves if they were in any position of power. You dont show greatness. You show pity. They dont want to see that. They want to be inspired and you are just not good enough for that.
Kenzie Rydell: I stand against you because the methods you use to accomplish your goal oppress talented people on this roster. You never seem to stop and wonder if it was the right thing to screw Caleb out of his championship with that fan event trick Lauren pulled; whether or not it was the right thing to do when you kept on attacking Spider. I stand against you not because I wasnt chosen and not because you dont think I would be good championship material but because your ways of solving a problem are so unbelievably backward that it baffles the mind!
Kenzie took another step forward. She was inches away from Siberia and Kowloon themselves with a determined expression written on her face.
Kenzie Rydell: If I hadnt stood up against the oppressive regime known as Team Lauren Parker Who would?
Siberia Zombie: It is not your place to stand up. It is your place to follow your leader. We believe that the end justify the means. If we get what she wants then we will tear this place apart if it would get her there. We do what we do in the way we do it because that is the only thing you people will understand. We are fighters and we only answer to power. If you do not then we will force you to. You can stand up all you want but you will find yourself alone in the end. Remember who your friends are and that they are the very reason we were summoned. You will end up alone.
Kenzie Rydell: The only thing necessary for the triumph of people like you and Lauren Parker is for good men and women to do nothing.
Kenzie smirked as she recited her own version of the phrase.
Kenzie Rydell: I wont blindly follow the leader like a lemming like you two have just because you insist I should. I wont bend a knee to power when I completely disagree with everything theyve been doing. And hey, if the one thing you think we understand is brute force, maybe I should just admit theres no convincing either one of you and just get to the part where you try to take me out before the main event just like youve been known to do, huh?
Siberia smiles and puts a hand on Kenzies shoulder.
Siberia Zombie: Oh, Kenzie. This isnt some grand fantasy or a corrupt regime. This is an organization of fighters where a woman is trying to keep her job leading it. Were here just to help her maintain ORDER.
At that word Siberia swings at Kenzie but misses as Rydell dodges the blow. Siberia stumbles forward then looks behind and aims a kick at Kenzies midsection. Kenzie blocks it but it sends her back into Kowloons path. He smashes his forearms into her back like a gorilla. Kenzie drops with a grunt but manages to quickly roll forward. Siberia lands on her with an elbow and pelts her with a few furious punches. Kowloon comes forward and holds her down with his foot. Siberia finds a chair.
Siberia Zombie: This is your chance to learn what happens. This is the reality that you refuse to see. This is justice, Kenzie.
Siberia raises the chair. At the last moment, Kenzie manages to squirm out from under Kowloons weight with her hands pushing back at his foot with all her might. As soon as shes free, Rydell rolls to the side of the hallway as quick as she could, narrowly avoiding the chairshot aimed directly towards her skull. She rolls back and kicks the chair up into Siberias face hitting Siberia hard. She takes her chance to try and run away but Kowloon isnt too concerned with Siberia and runs after her. He catches her before she reaches a more populated area. He grabs her by the neck and picks her up against the wall.
Kowloon Zombie: Why is it that you guys try to fight against fate? This change is inevitable. Miss Parker nee-
Rydell spits in his face with a choking smirk. He roars as he winds back with an arm to strike at her. Kenzie takes this opening to grab his wrist, wrap her leg around his arm, and bend it forwards. Kowloon takes a knee in pain and Kenzie kicks him away. She runs again but a chair comes flying at her legs. It smashes into her legs hard and she falls forward. Siberia walks up and hits her with a running knee. Kenzie stumbles back and crashes against some crates along the wall. She puts her guard up as Siberia and Kowloon stalk her. Siberia kicks but she dodges and goes to take out Kowloons legs. He smashes her down again with his forearms and picks her up to powerbomb her into the ground.
Kenzie desperately elbows him in the head repeatedly and he falls to one knee. Rydell falls into an elbow smash from Siberia that knocks them both over. Siberia grabs at her legs but Kenzie kicks and squirms away. She darts up and turns a corner into a crowd of fans and security. Kowloon and Siberia run after her but are surprised by the loud cheers for Rydell. Security holds the fans back as Kenzie looks around then raises her hands. The fans cheer louder and take pictures. Kowloon and Siberia walk forward but dont approach Rydell who even starts signing some autographs as she slowly walks in the other direction. Kenzie turns back to them.
Kenzie Rydell: Hey, guys?
The Zombie Vice Squad turn in Kenzies direction.
Kenzie Rydell: Ill show you justice.
MATCH SEVEN: Falls Count Anywhere
Caleb Houston (c) vs Katie Anderson (c)
RECAP
The match began in the back, as Katie ambushed Caleb before he even made his entrance. The fight saw the pair battle through the arena, with an array of weapons and environments used to the advantage of the competitors. The fighting was brutal, with both knowing exactly what it takes to win such a match.
As the fight spilled out into the parking lot, Caleb found himself on the wrong side of a baseball bat. Katie beat him down to the concrete and left him reeling as she discarded the bloodied and splittered weapon. She tried for a pin but Houston wasn't willing to lay down and die. He kicked out at two. A close two. Katie seemed frustrated as she pulled him up and slammed him into a white car, his bloody forehead streaking the vehicle in red upon impact.
Katie moved to one side and grabbed a crate, setting it up in front of Caleb. She ran forward and jumped off the box, but he dodged her attempt at a forearm and instead she slammed into the windshield and slid off the other side of the car. Caleb ran his hand through his hair, wiping more blood onto the vehicle, and went about staggering around to find Anderson. As he rounded the rear of the car, Caleb charged and blasted Katie with a sickening knee to the temple that left her down and out.
Caleb leaned on the car, trying to shake the cobwebs. He pulled Katie up and slammed her back against the chasis. He landed a hard shot to her midriff, and then grabbed her hair and slammed her head back against the driver's side window. The glass cracked on impact and Katie slumped down into a seated position. Caleb dragged her by her hair and opened the car door. He placed her leg inside the vehicle and looked about ready to slam the door shut, when she moved the leg at the last second. The door closed with a thud, shattering the cracked glass entirely. Katie rolled and began to crawl away, but Caleb grabbed her. He deadlift her into a German suplex, slamming her back against the front of the car. She lat motionless as Caleb climbed onto the vehicle.
Houston pulled her up and looked for a suplex, but she hooked her leg around his and revsered the move into a DDT. Caleb slammed head first into the windshield, which cracked and buckled under the pressure. Both competitors were motionless. Anderson slowly began to stir. She sat up, bits of glass falling out of her back as she moved. She stood and pulled Caleb up. His forehead was sliced open now. Blood poured out from the wound.
Caleb threw a groggy punch and Katie ducked, grabbing his legs as she moved. She locked him into her Peachtree Lock (Texas Cloverleaf)! Would he tap?? Caleb yelled as he tried to resist the hold. He used what little strength he had left to throw her forward with the power of his legs, and Katie fell to her knees on the roof of the car. Caleb slid off the vehicle and down to the concrete floor.
For a while, neither moved. Katie eventually rose and found Caleb slowly standing. She dived from the car, but he caught her diving crossbody attempt. Houston took a few steps back, toward a nearby van, and turned. Katie's head bounced off the bodywork of the van's side. Caleb turned again, and her head bounced off a second time. And a third. A fourth? Exhausted, Caleb dropped her to the concrete. Katie's head was a crimson mess, her blood pouring out onto the floor.
Caleb moved to pin her. One. Two. Thre- almost! Somehow she kicked out, despite the state she was in. Caleb looked both surprised and angered. He stood and sat her up, driving his bare elbow into her open wound, the blood smearing across her face. Katie screamed as he mauled her, but she refused to lie down and die. Another pin attempt only brought another two. Caleb stood, head shaking. He pulled her up, scoring another elbow across her face that seemed to daze her, and left her against the van's side.
Taking a few steps back, he flew in with his Down In Flames (Tornado Kick), but Katie dodged (or, perhaps more truthfully, fell) to the side, leaving Caleb to kick the van instead of her. He bounced back, holding his foot as he hopped on the spot. Katie pulled the wing mirror off the van and smashed it into his skull, levelling him. She went for a pin of her own. Caleb kicked out!
Would this match ever end?
Katie sat and then stood, uneasy on her feet. She looked around for a weapon and spotted a trash can. She moved to the weapon and tipped it, dropping its contents across the floor. Moving back to Caleb, she raised the weapon. OH NO! Houston scored the Down In Flames (Tornado Kick)! The trash can crumpled as it crashed into her skull! Katie dropped to her knees and then chest first down onto the concrete. Caleb slowly staggered over and made the pin. One. Two. Three. It was finally over.
Caleb rolled off Katie, but didn't. Neither competitor looked to be in any shape to walk out. EMTs swarmed and the referee held onto the Extreme Championship whilst Caleb was treated. he shoved the EMTs away and pulled himself up. Staggering around, he ended up leaning against the van - but was, after all of it, up on his feet. The referee handed him his championship and he lifted it into the air for a second, before he dropped down to one knee and held his ribs. Katie, meanwhile, was loaded onto a stretcher, but refused to be carried out and stood, gingerly walking away.
WINNER and SOLE EPW Extreme Champion
Caleb Houston
METHOD
Pinfall
MATCH LENGTH
18:52
FINISHING MOVE
Down In Flames (Tornado Kick)
BACKSTAGE
The scene cut backstage to Jenson Idol in a dark room with a light shining down on him. He glared into the camera for a few moments before he finally began to speak.
Jenson Idol: Tonight is the night. Its the end of Rayven Hardy and I. No matter what happens, win or lose, this dance? Its over.
He nodded.
Jenson Idol: But heres the thing, luvs, I dont plan on losing. I will beat Rayven for the Canadian Championship and I will be the two time Canadian Champion. This belt is something that should be represented well, its the first ever EPW Championship ever made, for Christ sakes! But Rayven has made a mockery out of it. She hasnt been defending the championship like a fighting champion, like I would. All the while, she is chasing other championships, as she went after Xavier Larouxs Television Championship, which isnt even a part of EPW. But that shows her greed and it shows that shes bloody rubbish.
Jenson scoffed and shook his head.
Jenson Idol: When I become the Canadian Champion again, I will defend any time, against anyone. Ill be the Canadian Champion that EPW deserves, the Canadian Champion that EPW NEEDS!
He nodded confidently as he stepped forward.
Jenson Idol: Rayven Hardy is a joke and shes a bloody fake person. She doesnt belong on the roster and she doesnt belong in the same ring as me But most of all, she doesnt deserve to be the champion of an entire country, she doesnt deserve to be Canadas Champion. But me? Im practically family here in Canada. They look up to the same Queen as I do. They have the same morals that I do! But Rayven? Shes a filthy American, using EPW to boost her movie career. She doesnt care about EPW and Canada, she doesnt care about anyone except herself and getting STDs from all the blokes she fucks.
Jenson chuckled and shrugged.
Jenson Idol: And tonight? Rayven will get fucked one last time when I take Canadian Championship back and show why Im Everybodys Favourite Idol.
He winked at the camera and walked away before the scene faded out.
BACKSTAGE
The scene cut backstage to an interview being conducted in Spanish with Empire superstar and Ascendancy member, Aria Cruz. The youngest member of Ascendancy seemed more at ease conducting the interview in her native tongue and was smiling brightly. In the background Libertys Becky Balfour-Lawless came into view. There was a devious smirk chiseled across her lips as she watched Aria with her arms folded.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: You should really speak up a bit, Im finding it hard to hear you from over here.
Aria clearly heard Becky, as the expression on her face went from smiling, to trying to contain her composure.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: Its chill, you can continue to ignore me. Maybe you can continue to ignore the fact that your boyfriend Jackson was just signing the bare chests of like ten fans too.
Arias head snapped back towards Becky who walked closer, but she wasnt alone. Behind Becky were ten Followers, all clad in the classic black and white shirt with #TheSociety plastered across the chest.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: Jacko even made a pass at me, but I told him that he wasnt man enough to satisfy my needs. Seth has that covered. I mean, we all know its true, right? Jackson could never be considered a real man when standing among the likes of Seth, Warren, and the original Big Daddy himself.
Arias nostrils flared and her eyes narrowed to slits as she watched Becky approach and listened to her words. The next words out of Arias were mouth were still in Spanish and they were angry VERY angry and much too quick to discern what she was saying unless you were fluent in angry Spanish, which Becky was not.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: Stand back...Ive got this.
Becky commanded her Followers as she stepped closer, stopping just two or three feet away from the young Ascendancy member.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: I called you the weak one on social media, and now Im doing it to your face. Youre weak. Especially when youre separated from the rest of your pack.
Balfour-Lawless slowly walked a complete circle around Aria who followed #TheSociety member with her eyes. Her reddened cheeks and body remained stationary as Becky stopped in front of her, this time, nearly nose to nose.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: Tonight is about family against family. Genuine against knock off. The elite against the upstart, but right now? It could be me against you. What do you say?
Without another word, Becky snapped her fingers at her side as the ten Followers emerged from where they were standing, taking stance directly behind the former Liberty champion. Becky wore a confident, yet arrogant grin as she continued to push Arias buttons.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: Youre fuckin weak, dude. Just tell me you arent ready and Ill let you walk away.
Aria looked each Follower in the eyes before finally settling on Becky with a smile. She cracked her neck to the left and then to the right before smirking ever so slightly.
Aria Cruz: What do I say, puta? I say lets go.
Aria turned to address the reporter one last time in Spanish but halfway through their exchange she lunged past Becky and drove her fist into the jaw of the Follower nearest to Beckys left. The Followers head snapped to the side before he dropped to the floor with a thud. A soft chuckle escaped as Aria shook out her hand and looked towards the others.
Aria Cruz: Whos next?
Arias eyes fell on Becky as her brow quirked and a sly grin took hold. The remaining nine Followers immediately build a wall between themselves and Becky as they push Becky in the opposite direction.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: You can knock one down, but we never stop coming back for more.
The Followers stare down the angry young member of Ascendancy as Becky laughs as shes escorted away from the hallway, leaving the fallen Follower at the feet of Aria.
Aria Cruz: Where are you going?! You said you and I, right here, right now!
Aria was furious, spittle flying from her lips and striking the Followers who didnt even flinch.
Aria Cruz: Fuck this! This ends now!!
Again Aria lunged forward, trying to break through the line of Followers that separated her from Becky but the Followers held fast. Even as Aria kicked and punched at them they didnt give. It was as if they were impervious to pain, holding their position until Becky was safely away. Aria screamed out in anger and frustration. There were no more words, just a guttural scream, as if from a wounded animal. The scream was music to the ears of Becky who paused to savor the sound before smirking and disappearing around the corner.
BACKSTAGE
The camera opens to Honey doing the classic pulldown technique to have the person she's training against (a large male) fall out of the ring before she stands up and looks to the cameraman on the outside, Honey leaning on the ropes.
Honey: Hello! My name is Honey and I'm just doing a little demonstration for, like, tomorrow night's BIG Battle royal. I just did an elimination, see?
The footage cuts to Honey heaving to pull the same guy over the ropes before she quickly lays down and uses her legs to press the lower body up with her thighs, strained face and topples the man over with a voice over.
Honey: I might be small, but I am mighty! I am.
Another cut to Honey in the ring. Honey turns her back to a camera behind her with her brow down and smiling then back to the first camera then the one behind her and the one in front of her before it pulls back to reveal her wearing her red Super Falcon Style shirt with her GOL Super Falcon Cup she won in 2017 by defeating Amy-Jo, Corey, Julianna DiMaria, Matt Angel but also involving Kenzie Rydell, Hammerstein, James Edwards, Jack Tillman to name a few names.
Honey: The Super Falcon. And I'm all about spreading my wings and touching the sky. Because tomorrow night, I get to do that with a HUGE, HUGE Battle Royal. And to win, I have to, like, eliminate A LOT of people and stuff.
Another cut shows Honey with the guy in the ring as she does a hurricanrana over the ropes and scampers under the bottom rope to demonstrate a lucha inspired elimination she picked up during her tenure in GOL and ACM work.
Honey: I have lots and lots of eliminations to use against, like, Trent Grundy and Isabella and Michelle Storm and stuff. I promise my friends Benoite and Ruby to not hurt them, like, injury and stuff when I put them out of the ring because they're really really talented.
Honey: I have been a wrestler for, like, over a year now and I haven't been a champion on my lonesome. That is why I'm super grateful for this chance to work against Empire Champions and Liberty Champions, because I want to be the person who can, like, stand proud above both of them as the Can-Am Champion, the first of it's kind!
She says with a little finger prodding up to remind the fans it is the first title.
Honey: And because I want to show the Society and the Empire people that you don't have to cheat and stuff to be champion. You can win like a Super Falcon does!
She shows off the front of her t-shirt: "Super Falcon Style" before turning around to show Honey's motto.
Honey: Always play fair when you wrestle in the square!
Exactly as it's written on the back of her shirt and spins around on her toes to face the camera.
Honey: It's like Christmas Eve and I'm waiting for the BIG Match. Good luck to all the wrestlers tonight because tomorrow Honey History gets made!
And with that, the camera fades on Honey's smiling face to black.
MATCH EIGHT: SINGLES
EPW Canadian Championship
Rayven Hardy (c) (Team #NoMore) vs Jenson Idol (Team Lauren)
RECAP
As the match began, Jenson looked to take control but found Rayven more than happy to match him blow for blow out of the gate. The Canadian Champion seemed to have a point to prove, with her harsh strikes and kicks blasting away at Jenson. But Idol is no slouch and he found an opening thanks to a rake to the eyes, followed with a neckbreaker. With Rayven grounded, Jenson showed his intention of hurting her as he stomped and kicked her, not allowing her to even stand.
He climbed the turnbuckle and dropped a huge elbow into her midriff. Wasting no time, he climbed the turnbuckle again and scored a senton bomb that drove the air from her lungs. Jenson made a pin but Rayven kicked out at two. Jenson grabbed her into a headlock, slowing the match down as he controlled things from the mat. Rayven struggled to break the hold but managed to force them both into a standing position, where she hit him with elbows to the gut. She ran toward the ropes - but he grabbed her hair and she slammd down to the canvas, head first, hard. He followed up with a knee to the face and then stood over her, smirking.
Jenson raised his arms and the fans booed. He pulled Rayven up by her hair and moved her to the corner. Lifting her, he threw her back with a massive fallaway slam. Rayven crashed to the canvas and rolled a couple of times, holding her lower back. Jenson moved to the ring apron and watched Rayven slowly stand. He leaped up and forward, his springboard forearm connecting! Rayven looked to be in all kinds of trouble. She stood but was disoriented and Jenson went for his Break Bread (Sliced Bread #2) - but she threw him off and he crashed into the corner, before landing on his head.
Both competitors were down. Rayven got to her knees but was breathing rapidly and looked to be in discomfort. She pressed her palm into her knee and forced herself into a standing position. Grabbing Jenson by the hair, she pulled him up and landed a chop across his chest. Jenson took advantage of her slowness, though, and through her into the corner. He ran in, but she got a leg up and that stopped him in his tracks. She moved to the second rope and he ran in again and she lifted herself up. Jenson speared into the ringpost and slowly fell backward.
Rayven stood atop the corner and looked down at Jenson. She went for the Skittle Star Press (Shooting Star Press)...but Jenson rolled aside! Hardy bounced off the canvas and stood. F.C. CUTTER (RKO) CONNECTED! Jenson held his shoulder for a moment and slowly rolled Rayven over. One. Two. KICKOUT!
Idol rolled to his back, hands on his head. How had she managed to stay in it? He sat up and then stood, grabbing a handful of her hair. As he pulled Rayven up, Jenson screamed abuse in her face. She was almost fully upright when she suddenly burst into action and caught him in a quick roll up. One. Two. Jenson kicked out! He rolled from the ring, waving his finger at her, and went to grab her Canadian Title from the commentary position. He threw the title into the ring, distracting the ref, and quickly rolled in with a pipe in hand. He raised the weapon, unseen, but Rayven scored a drop toehold that crashed him down into the turnbuckle - where he dropped the pipe. He stood again, groggy, and- RAYVEN HIT HIM WITH AN F.C. CUTTER! She nailed him with his own move!
Hardy made the cover. One. Two. Three!
Rayven rolled away, as the fans cheered. She got to her knees and was handed her title. She had defeated Jenson and quite possibly ended his claim to her Canadian title in the process. And with that she had delivered blow against Team Lauren and buoyed her own Team #NoMore.
WINNER and STILL EPW Canadian Champion
Rayven Hardy
METHOD
Pinfall
MATCH LENGTH
12:14
FINISHING MOVE
F.C. Cutter (RKO) - stolen by Rayven
BACKSTAGE
A crackling fire inside of a steel barrel is seen, with its bright orange hue. Slowly zooming out, the sounds of passing cars mix with the fire, and all members of the Society are standing side by side, dressed in all black, faces painted white with black detail in the form of various skeletal designs.
The glow consumes them while illuminating the darkness immediately surrounding them. They stand, unified and with purpose, unshaken by the flames before them, attention undivided.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: Family. Thats what we are. Each individual you see before you is here not by force, but by choice. We all come from backgrounds that most would fail to comprehend. Weve all been kicked when we were down, but now we stand together. United. Ready.
The screen cuts into a static as Beckys scream is heard. During the static cut, we see Becky on her knees, her eyes rolled back in her head with her tongue out. The screen immediately cuts back to the previous group shot with all members standing in the darkness.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: Ascendancy want to use #TheSociety to make a name for themselves. The problem with that is, just months ago, we were the nameless. We were the faceless. We were the forgotten. Our name wasnt made by attacking whatever the status quo was, our name was made by grinding, bleeding, and beating every single person or group that was put in front of us. We werent gifted jobs because our last name was shared with a star.
Becky traces her finger across her chest, drawing an invisible cross.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: With God as my witness, we came to No Mans Land to remind everyone exactly who we are. Seth Lawless
The camera pans to Lawless.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: The machine. He keeps us moving at all times. Seth has been nearly impossible to defeat recently because of the strength and knowledge he brings to the ring.
The camera now focuses on Warren Corbett.
Becky Balfour: Warren. The enigma. The one that nobody understands. The bringer of Anarchy. Do you guys remember the times when you all thought he was simply my puppet? He moved at my commands, you all thought he was a mere follower
Becky moves to Warren and grabs his right ear, yanking down on it as they smile at each other.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: Hes quickly become one of the standouts in Liberty, not because of anything Ive done, but because of EVERYTHING he has accomplished. Which brings me to Trent Grundy.
Becky walks over and stands in front of the much larger Grundy.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: The muscle. The original big daddy himself. The reason Riley Savell showed up for this event.
Grundy laughs as Becky walks back towards the middle of the group, positioning herself back in line.
Becky Balfour-Lawless: And me? Im the voice. The one that everyone listens to. The one that speaks out to those like us, and the one who has made statement after statement that had fallen on deaf ears, only to become reality. While Im the voice, tonight...Ill make Ascendancy SCREAM FOR ME.
Balfour smirks.
Warren Corbett: Its mighty intriguing that there was simply no Ascendancy a few months ago, they were nowhere to be seen. It wasnt until people started turning their heads OUR way, that we saw the formation of The Ascendancy. They spoke about being a family, they spoke about coming up from the bottom, and proving everyone wrong about them. To be quite honest, The Ascendancy is nothing more than Diet #TheSociety.
The screen cuts into a static again. During the static cut, we see Warren with his arms out stretched, with his eyes rolled back and a mighty yell on his open mouth. There is no sound of his growl though. The screen immediately cuts back to the previous group shot with all members standing in the darkness.
Warren Corbett: Weve been preaching the same exact things for months, and here we are months later with the same exact message, belts on our shoulders, and even a few people who want to be like us. Followers are one thing, but a complete carbon copy group that has tried to take us down since their inception?
Warren shakes his head back and forth, smirking all the while.
Warren Corbett: Thats something else entirely. The Ascendancy doesnt just want to dispose of us, they want to BE us and take our place. Hasnt that been evident from the very first time we saw Riley Savell tweet us out of nowhere? The only problem is that we are the ORIGINALS. You cant just waltz in and pretend like we havent been working our asses off for our message. I didnt see The Ascendancy around when we were nobodies, it was only after the spotlight hit us that The Ascendancy became a thing.
This time he nods up and down, knowing that if nobody realized the timing of it all before, they definitely would now.
Warren Corbett: But the one thing you fools still cant do is look at things realistically. So many people have tried to brush us aside and were still standing here, as successful as ever. So many before you have tried to break us, tried to push us down, and together we continue to rise. You four have been a family for a few weeks, you dont know each other like we know each other. You can not even begin to understand the struggles weve gone through, our entire lives, just to get to this point. The four of you speak from such a level of privilege, being siblings of competitors already in the game and posting them in your twitter bio to gain recognition. WE had to climb from the ground up, and some little brats arent going to take that away from us!
Warrens voice becomes harsh and angered, as he lowers his head, looking dead into the camera. He raises a fist in the air, and then stretches his arms out to showcase the entire family again. As one.
Seth steps forward as he looks at his wife and then his brother in arms Warren. He takes a deep breath as he cracks his neck a bit. He holds one half of the CWC Tag Team Titles on his shoulder.
Seth Lawless: I have heard it all. Ever since I got with Becky, I have heard that she has overshadowed me that she was going to be the death of me. That she was going to hold me back and that I started to lose a step because of her. But in all reality I have become a lot better with her by my side.
He nods his head as he looks at Becky with a smile.
Seth Lawless: If no one has watched me in Liberty they have missed a whole hell of a lot from me. To say that I have been on a hot streak would be an understatement. I have been winning match after damn match. I have been talked about and I have been make statements after statements. So have I really lost a step? Hell, no I have gained one, I have become the one that people fear I have become the one that people know when they step in the ring with me they are going to get everything that I have and when Im on my game Im damn near unstoppable.
He smiles and laughs a bit to himself as he starts to pace back and forth.
Seth Lawless: As for No Mans Land we have to deal with the people that think they have a stronger family than us in Ascendancy. Funny, how those ragtag group of people came together after the success that we have had. It seems to me that they decided that hell the Society has been kicking ass lets work together and TRY to be as good as them. But in all reality they arent as good as us, and I know that they are going to fight us tooth and nail but it will not be good enough.
He smiles once more and closes his eyes.
Seth Lawless: Like Warren said we are going to prove that we are better than them and that they cannot take our place. We worked hard to become the CWC Tag Team Champions and we did that. We have prove everyone wrong every single step of the way. People have talked down at us, they have put us in matches that we shouldnt have won but we did. We are not going to fail in our journey against Ascendancy. We are going to beat them and then they will break up and go their separate ways, because as much as they want to be us they cant beat us. After all the original is always better than the sequel.
Seth shrugs his shoulders as he steps back in line and pats his CWC Tag Team Title.
The camera cuts to static once more as Trent Grundy steps forward as the black and white static is nearly blinding. Suddenly, he punches his right hand forward, shattering the static-laden screen which is now enclosed in darkness. We hear the laughs of all four of The Society members competing in the match tonight before a logo takes over the otherwise dark screen.
#TheSociety
BACKSTAGE
The scene cut backstage to the locker room of the Ascendancy. In one corner, Riley was minding her own business as she was in her own little world at the moment. On the other side of the locker room, Aria was demanding Jackson put on a shirt as she tried to put it on him herself while glancing over at Riley and then Megan at the same time, making sure they werent checking Jackson out. Megan meanwhile was standing right in front of the camera in her ring gear with her arms crossed while smacking on a piece of a gum.
Megan Rydell: So this is it, huh? You want the big speech from all of us about why were better than #TheSociety? You want us to tell you why were the future of not only Empire Pro Wrestling and the CWC, but of this entire sport as a whole? The thing is, weve been giving you the answers every week, ever since we came onto the scene as a group, as a family. Dont believe me? Then take a look at what who weve been competing with over the last few months. I wasnt afraid to step in the ring with the likes of Ashleigh Grimes, Molly Reid and Julian Savell. Riley put herself through hell against Owen Gonsalves, while Aria and Jackson have impressed the world in every match theyve been in, with their only loss coming because of, you guessed it, #TheSociety interfering.
Megan rolled her eyes.
Megan Rydell: But I digress. While weve been on the rise, #TheSociety has been regressed to being tag team champions and thats what they hang onto. Becky holds onto the fact that she was the Liberty Champion but yet, she hasnt even sniffed that title in ages. Now look at her, she was just begging Nathan Callaghan for a title shot earlier today. Some people are rewarded off of their actions and not their words, Becky, its why Im fighting for the Pride Championship next week. But this week? Today? We defeat #TheSociety and it doesnt matter who we have to pin to pick up the victory. Becky can throw out challenges to have one of us pin her but the thing is, well go right through her and anyone else and pin WHO we want, WHEN we want. This match isnt about titles, it isnt about Empire and it for sure isnt about Liberty and #TheSociety This match is about Ascendancy.
As Riley Savell pushed up from her spot in the corner she walked over to where Jackson and Aria were, she looked over the situation before laughing softly and looking up at Jackson.
Riley Savell: Hey, you two. Dont make me get the hose, Megan is over there being all serious and threatening to BalWhore and her band of merry morons, youre kinda ruining the mood you know?
As she turned back to look at Megan, she swung out her other hand which was still strapped up in a soft cast, but otherwise seemed to be moving fluidly obviously undeterred by her injuries from her last match.
Riley Savell: Obviously, were going to trounce The Spaziety, why theyre still acting like they even have a chance is beyond me. Big Daddy is too busy on the backfoot apologizing to me and talking all kinds of shit about how he wants to get to know me Gross.
She mimicked a gagging action as she walked over to Megan, slinging her good hand around Megans shoulder, Riley, not yet in her ring gear smiled in a fake and cheesy way at the camera.
Riley Savell: Last time I was addressing one of these things, I was about to choke a bitch out for looking at me wrong, ahhh, memories. Good to see Cassie finally learned her fucking lesson. Tonight, that privilege falls to you aimless twerps in the back Blindly following the freshly
dyed swamp hair of one Beck BalWhore into a dismal and painful defeat. I mean, come on guys Do you reeeaallllly think you stand a chance against us?
Riley looked to Megan with a smirk; mostly ignoring Aria who was now more aggressively trying to force a shirt on Jackson.
Riley Savell: Weve been fucking with you guys all week Do you really think any of you garner enough importance to have us in-fighting? That for even a second you would come between us. Thats the part you dont get, we all have our skill sets. Megan here? Shes a mother fucking pit bull and shes going to tear you limb from limb.
Aria? Our little Pequeña Tormenta, she has uses for body parts you dont even wanna know about and one look and Jackson tells you he could break any one of you without even working up a sweat. But me? Im cerebral, I see it all and I work it to our advantage. I did it with Owen, hell in the beginning I did it with Jay but you guys? You might just be the most inconsequentially weak willed bunch of suckers I have ever had the pleasure of tormenting.
Riley bit into her bottom lip with a wide grin, nodding her head for emphasis.
Riley Savell: And tonight, that all comes to a head inside that ring when we prove once and for all, not only are we the superior team, not only are we a cohesive unit But Ascendancy? Its a family, one we chose, one we carefully selected and one that cannot, that will not, be beaten.
Jackson finally puts on the tank top that Aria had been forcing on him the entire time. He shakes his head and smirks toward the camera.
Jackson Idol: Look, Im not the talker the two lovely ladies before me were, I go out there and I make you look bad in the ring by just plain out working you. Do I think anyone from #TheSociety can keep up with me in the ring? Hardly. Hell the only reason you guys are even riding high in Liberty right now is because we chose to make Empire our starting grounds. You had your fun, picking at people and using your numbers against them but heres where you fucked up. How many times have you outnumbered the competition and still ended up losing? Becky would still be Liberty Champ if that was the case. We are the new breed in the industry Enjoy the show.
Megan smiled and nodded as she looked at Jackson before glancing back at the camera.
Megan Rydell: And the show? Its going to be about Ascendancy. Were what people are talking about. Were the only ones in Empire and the entire CWC who matter. Were making this OUR playground. Dont believe me? Then see what happens tonight when we prove our dominance on once again. Seth Lawless? Warren Corbett? Becky Balfour? Trent Grundy? They dont stand a fucking chance.
Before Megan can continue talking, Aria Cruz suddenly looks up, actually popping up like a meerkat as though she just noticed something. That something being that the cameraman, is actually a camera woman. Aria hisses loudly and launches across the room, as the woman was in the room when Jackson had no shirt on. As Aria lunges for the camera, Riley starts laughing loudly and Megan catches her around the waist, trying to hold back the now kick and growling Aria, her hisses almost spitting at the camera.
Riley Savell: Id get out of here now sweetheart, shes gonna fucking cut you!
The camera cuts out to the sound of shuffling and a panicked yelp, echoed by Riley and Megs laughter and three final words.
Jackson Idol: Aria! Not again!
MATCH NINE: 4v4 TAG TEAM
Ascendancy (Aria Cruz, Jackson Idol, Megan Rydell & Riley Savell) vs #TheSociety (Becky Balfour, Seth Lawless, Trent Grundy & Warren Corbett)
RECAP
The match between Ascendancy and #TheSociety started off with Megan Rydell and Becky Balfour in the ring. The two battled back and forth until the more experienced Balfour took the lead and she locked Megan in with a headlock. Megan counted by shoving Becky into the ropes and when Becky came back, Megan leaped up and hit Balfour with a hurricanrana turned into a pin. Meg got the two count but Balfour kicked out. Megan lifted Becky up from the mat but Balfour shoved her off. Megan charged her and went for a clothesline but Becky ducked it. Megan bounced off of the ropes and came back to Becky who grabbed Megan and hit her with a thunderous spinebuster. Becky pinned Meg but Aria came into the ring and kicked Becky off of Megan. Becky saw Aria, who had a crazy look in her eyes and she quickly backed away as the referee came in between them. Aria finally relented and got out of the ring as Becky tagged in Trent Grundy. Becky picked Megan up and lifted her onto Trents shoulders before he dropped her with a sitdown powerbomb into a pin. The referee counted to two and Megan just got her shoulder up.
Trent began to stomp away at Megan as he yelled out some obscenities her way. He then picked Megan up and yelled out at her teammates, causing Riley to try and get in but the referee stopped her and while he was distracted, Trent raked Meg in the eyes. Meg fell down holding onto her face as Riley screamed at the referee, telling her she could do a better job than him. Trent picked Megan up and hit her with a running powerslam. He pinned Rydell again and got a two count before she kicked out right before the three. Megan reached for her corner in obvious pain but Trent pulled her away. He picked Megan up and whipped her towards the ropes. She bounced off of them and Trent went for a big boot but Megan ducked under it. She gained a burst of energy and hit the ropes again and when she came back she dropkicked Trent in his knee, causing it to buckle and he dropped to one knee. Meg hit the ropes again and came back before leaping up and grabbing Trents head and dropping him with an emphatic DDT.
Both lie flat on the mat for quite some time before Megan crawls toward her corner. She almost made it but Trent grabbed her by the ankle. Megan kept herself up with one foot before leaping up and hitting Trent with an enziguri, knocking him off. Meg tagged in Riley who got into the ring, ready to fight. Trent stood up on his feet and Riley took him down with a forearm to the face. He stumbled up on his knees and Riley hit him with a superkick. She pinned Trent but he kicked out after two. Riley began to stomp hard onto Trents chest before she picked him up and dropped him with a double arm DDT. Riley pinned again but this time, Becky Balfour broke the pin up. This caused Aria to enter the ring and chase after Becky, who quickly exited. Aria chased Becky, who hopped the barricade. Aria hopped it too and grabbed a Stitch doll that an Aria fan was holding and she began to beat Becky with it. Clearly it didnt do much harm but the stuffed insides of the Stitch toy went flying everywhere.
Becky eventually shoved Aria off of her before clotheslining her over the barricade. Jackson quickly rushed to his girlfriends aid and he speared Becky down onto the ground. Seth got in on the action, taking Jackson down with a clothesline before lifting him up and whipping him towards the steel steps, causing him to collide into them. This distracted Riley, giving Trent the opportunity to tag in Warren Corbett. Warren immediately took Riley out with a German suplex before targeting her hurt hand, stomping on it over and over again. Riley rolled around in obvious pain as Warren looked ready to finish the job, hovering over Riley. Outside of the ring, Megan charged Seth Lawless but he dodged her and sent her flying into the post. Seth then stood back up onto his corner, being the only person standing besides Warren, who was in the ring. Warren waited for Riley to get up and when she did, he went for the Battle Ax (spinning high impact spinebuster) but before he could finish the move, Riley countered and rolled him up into a pin. She got a two count but Corbett kicked out.
Corbett stayed on top of Riley and took her down with a clothesline before lifting her up and hitting a running backbreaker. He pinned her but got a two count. Warren picked Riley up and whipped her towards the turnbuckle and she collided into them. He charged forward and looked to hit a spear on her into the turnbuckle but Riley ducked out of the way just in time and Warren went shoulder first into the corner. Riley gathered herself across the ring as Warren started to stand. Riley then charged and she hit Warren with a helluva kick before they both fell down. The referee started to count and when the count hit 8, they both tagged in a partner, one being Seth Lawless and the other being Jackson Idol. Jackson charged Seth and Seth popped him up, going for his Detroit is Burning (Pop up powerbomb) but Jackson leaped over Seths head. Seth turned and Jackson hit him with an FC Cutter (RKO) from outta nowhere.
Jackson pinned Seth but Lawless kicked out just before the three count. Jackson couldnt believe it as he hit the turnbuckle and climbed up it. He looked down at Seth before leaping off, attempting the Ascending Idol (Phoenix Splash) but Seth got his knees up in the air and they collided with Jacksons ribs. Jackson stood up holding his ribs and Seth sent him towards the rope and when Jackson came back, Seth went for Detroit Is Burning a second time and he hit it this time. Seth pinned Jackson but before the two count, Riley grabbed Seths foot and pulled him out of the ring. shoved Seth into the ring post head first, effectively knocking him out. Becky quickly entered the ring before charging the ropes and she did a suicide dive right through them, taking Riley out as the fans went wild over the action. Jackson hit the top rope as Aria tagged herself in. Jackson then leaped off of it and took Becky out with a flying crossbody, taking himself and Becky out. Megan grabbed Seth and threw him into the ring.
Aria grabbed Seth and she dropped him with The Crowning (headlock driver) but before she could even pin him, Trent had entered the ring and he took Aria out with a big boot. The referee tried to stop what was happening but havoc began to ensue as all the team members began to battle it out inside of the ring as Aria and Seth were laid out. The battle continued to the outside as Jackson clotheslined Trent over the ropes before leaping over and taking him off his feet completely with a cross body. Megan and Riley meanwhile double teamed Warren, taking him out with a double clothesline but then Becky hit them both from behind a kick to each one of them from each foot, knocking them out of the ring. Becky then pulled Seth to their corner and got out of the ring before tagging herself in. She grabbed Aria and dropped her with an exploder suplex before pinning her but she only got a two count.
Outside of the ring, Riley started to stand and she turned around to meet Trent Grundy, who gave her a kiss, catching Riley by surprise. Riley then quickly reacted and kicked Trent straight in the balls, the refereeing not seeing as his eyes were on the action in the ring. Becky saw it and she began to scream at the referee to pay attention, which gave Aria the chance to tag Megan in, which the referee saw before he looked out on the action on the outside of the ring. Riley then took Trent down with a Savell Stomp (curbstomp) on the outside before screaming at him. She didnt see Warren coming though, and he took her out with a brutal spear straight into the edge of the ring. The referee yelled for them to get to their corners but they didnt listen. Meanwhile, Megan slid into the ring with a pair of brass knuckles on her hand. Becky turned and she was met by a full on punch to the face with the brass knuckles, taking Becky out. Megan tossed the knuckles to the side and outside of the ring, Jackson Idol charged Warren and leaped in the air but Warren caught him.
It looked like Warren was going for the Battle Ax (Spinning high impact spinebuster) and he was aiming to put Jackson through the table, but at the last minute, Jackson wrapped his arm around Warrens head and countered it into a DDT, sending them both through the table. Megan picked Becky up to finish her off and as she did, Seth tried to enter the ring with the brass knuckles in hand that Megan threw away. He charged Megan but Aria had got to her feet and she took Seth out with The Long Kiss Goodnight (buzzsaw kick) before Megan dropped Becky with The Beautiful Disaster (Lifting DDT). Megan pinned Becky and the referee finally turned around to make the count. He counted to three and the match was over as Ascendancy were announced the winners of the match.HERE
WINNERS
Ascendancy (Aria Cruz, Jackson Idol, Megan Rydell & Riley Savell)
METHOD
Pinfall
MATCH LENGTH
16:59
FINISHING MOVE
The Beautiful Disaster (Lifting DDT)
BACKSTAGE
Any onlooker would have been taken aback as the feed cut in. A vast sea of red immediately flooded the eyegates and overwhelmed the soul. Bright crimson seating. Crimson walls. A massive crimson curtain. Crimson carpeting, outlined and accented with tiny golden lines. Cascading rays of light radiated down from the ceiling and bounced about the inner room. The loud and boisterous decorum of the room seemed to enhance the simplicity and beauty of the wooden stage that lay at the end of it all. That was the fantastical wonder of New Yorks Imperial Theatre.
The camera positioned itself direction in front of the stage. It lingered there as the lights in the place dimmed down to a low level. Those crimson curtains slowly drew apart, which revealed the massive state of the stage. Despite the rooms level of darkness, a figure could be made out. Twenty seconds passed before a series of lights shined down, illuminating center stage and the figure.
Misha LeCavalier sat quite comfortably there on a red stool. Her black Alice + Olivia
tunic and matching colored Ben Taverniti half blazer clung to her body. She crossed her right leg over her left for comfort, which also revealed her Christian Louboutin Dirdibooties. Her serene look matched the tranquil state that she appeared to be in. Her lips curved and formed a soft smiled as she peered about the theater for a moment before her gazed finally rested on the cameras lens.
Misha LeCavalier: It is fascinating, is it not? Professional wrestlers happen to come from all walks of life. Some aspired to enter to the sport when they were wee younglings. Some excelled in other areas of combat and desired to pursue professional wrestling to broaden their skill set. Others turned to the sport because it served as an outlet, a means of escape from the turmoil that plagued their everyday lives. Different ambitions. Varying motivations. But despite all the variance in how each of us found our way into the sport, there is one common denominator amongst us allthe dream of performing and succeeding on the main stage.
She made sure to put particular emphasis on the last two words. The main stage. Their sound lingered in the air for a moment. It was both fitting and ironic that she sat on one of the worlds most grand theatres.
Misha LeCavalier: Many are transported back in time when they ponder that fateful phrase. To times when they sat star-eyed on the couch as their plucky underdog rose to the occasion and seized their moment. To the times when they viewed their favorite as he or she finally ascended to the top of the mountain to grasp that coveted championship belt. Those thoughts harken back to fond times. And as we advance in our careers, we see ourselves in the view same places as those people that we observed. We desire to have our moment, just as they did. Our dreams become the the missing piece to the magical storybook ending of our careers.
She let out a small snort.
Misha LeCavalier: The issuereal life is far less glamorous than fantasies we conjure up.
The Calgary borned woman shook her head ever so slightly.
Misha LeCavalier: Reality is harsh. And part living in the reality is understanding that sometimes you arent meant to realize those dreams. Kenzie, you know the cruelty of that sentiment all too well, do you not?
There was brief pause before Misha began again.
Misha LeCavalier: Kenzie, I am curious if you know just how truly fortunate your career has been. I am not speaking about your time with the New Generation Wrestling Five Lakes Championship. No, no, no. I am talking about last month. You were afforded an opportunity that most people who sign to this company shall never even to be able to imagine, much less obtains themselvesa one on one match for the Empire Championship.
Misha nodded her head.
Misha LeCavalier: The stage? Code Red, one of Empires most star-studded events. The match? A Iron Woman match. You often remark about how people do not take you seriously. Well, twas the perfect chance to show your opponent that you were superior to them. The heavens and stars aligned to offer you a splendid stage to obtain that nugget of glory youd been seeking all of your career
Misha LeCavalier: You failed to seize it!
Her words reverbarted in open air and and carried throughout theatre. She waited for a few seconds before she continued.
Misha LeCavalier: Kenzie, allow me to address the humongous elephant in the room and be perfectly frank: you do not deserve to be in this match with Molly and myself. You do not deserve another chance to realize those dreams and write that storybook ending. Because you were lollygagging about or attempting to fight the establishment, I was about my business. I jumped head first into the lions den at Conquest Thirty-Two and defeated two of the promotions rising talents to earn herself a shot at the Empire Championship.
The camera focused in a bit on her right hand. It had been shaking during the course of her talk.
Misha LeCavalier: You have been preemptively proclaiming yourself the next new champion all week long. But I must ask, Kenzie, what exactly did you do to warrant this opportunity at No Mans Land? Hmm?
Her once tranquil state had devolved into frustration, as evidenced by the sternness in her voice.
Misha LeCavalier: You went and got yourself attacked, nullifying the supposedly presence that your were supposed to have in that Conquest contendership match. Motive asde, Lauren provided you with a wonderful chance fight your way into contendership at Conquest Thirty-Three. But instead of being the Hope of Empire Pro, you dawned the cloak of chicanery when your robbed those poor fans of the match they had been clamoring for. You were given a gift-wrap opportunity, but instead you chose to toss it aside and turn this bitch into Politico.
Mishas voice had risen. She took a deep breath in attempts to center herself.
Misha LeCavalier: I have spent countless hours preparing and training to get here, spilled my blood on multiple occasions to get to this point in my Empire career. While you are so self-centered and unfocused that you just throw it all away, only to still be shoehorned into this match? That sits horribly with me.
She bawled her right hand into a tight fist; it certainly stopped the shaking.
Misha LeCavalier: And now you are hoping that No Mans Land will the stage in which you touch the stars. That your flame still burning white hot. I plan on crushing it and you out beneath my soles.
Silence persisted for a tiny length of time.
Misha LeCavalier: You are probably wondering if I have a problem with you, based on upon my words here and leading up to this match. The answer would be yes. They are quite numerous actually. This is not your match to be in; the entire world knows that. But in truth, the main issue is akin to my is with Ms. Russothat I see a great deal of my old self in you. At one point in time, I was a mere dreamer without the wherewithal you achieve my goals. I grew tired of that way of life. I knuckled up and fought on. Because of determination and zeal, I was able to succeed on the main stage. And I did not need to lie to myself to do it. I merely lifted my head and made the main stage my very own.
The LeCavalier woman shook her head.
Misha LeCavalier: I suppose that is the fundamental difference between the two of us, Kenzie. The confidence, drive, and wherewithal to flourish, no matter the cost. You have not proven yourself to be that kind of person, that kind of wrestler. Your words contradict your skills and your heart.
Her voice created a small echo as it traveled throughout the theatre. Misha cracked her right fists knuckles before she unballed it. She sat both of her hands back in her lap and clasped them together.
Misha LeCavalier: My ire on Ms. Rydell is as long as the day is long, but I must turn away from it. Because if I do not, mt vision shall become just as unfocused and murky as hers is. Therefore, I shall now set my gaze upon the other supernova in this matchMolly Reid.
Misha LeCavalier: What is there to say about you? You are distinguished from Ms. Rydell. You are a woman who is accustomed to strutting around on the grand stage, yes? Weve heard of your exploits in Insurgency. We know of your adventures in Frontier Grappling Arts and New Kingdom Pro. And we have witnessed your savagery within Empire. Barbaric is the only word to describe your match at Hellbound. And that is not meant as a knockI thoroughly enjoyed the violence. So did Paz apparently. So much so that she begged and demanded for a rematch against you. The champion herself deemed you worthy of another shot. It was there that you capitalized. Well done.
She took the time to nod her head in affirmation.
Misha LeCavalier: Molly, I once recall you stating that you feel people ignore your accomplishments, that they have turned a blind eye to the work you have put in and the path you have taken to get to the top of this promotion. I understand your sentiments completely. You would not believe the idiocy I witness when I traverse the world defending my own championship. That being said, Im not here to throw veiled shots at you, nor am I here to diminish or discredit your Empire Championship reign. Others in my position would talk heavily about Laurens attachment and involvement in your reign. I chose not to bother myself with such trivial matters. Her involvement is irrelevant in my eyes, honestly. You were the one carrying the Empire Championship upon your waste. You were the woman risking life and limb in the ring. No one else.
Misha let out a small laugh as she shook her head.
Misha LeCavalier: Paz. You defeated her to capture the championship. TJ Lisch. Megan Rydell. Kenzie Rydell. Three matchesthree successful defenses.
The record for successful defenses for the Empire Championship stood at one prior to you holding it. You surpassed that two times over. You demolished Mr. Lisch. You had incredible bouts with both Rydell sisters. Whether people like you are not, the facts are difficult to disputeyou are the best Empire Champion to date. Furthermore, let us not forget all the people that you defeated on your path to championship and beyond...
A thought crossed Mishas mind, as indicated by the pensive look that washed over her face.
Misha LeCavalier: I suppose I would be included into that category, would I not.
Seven seconds of silence followed as she collected her thoughts.
Misha LeCavalier: The first week of October. It was quite a glorious week, if I may say so. I captured the CWC International Championship on the first after braving the Global Warfare tournament. I put on a showcase over at Shooting Star Wrestling Alliance and won the U.K. Cup the very next night. After a mere days rest, I then traveled Mexico City and successfully defended the International Championship. It was an astonishing week up to that point. And to cap it all off? A match with you, Molly. A win over you would have made that week absolutely perfectand yet, you defeated me at Conquest Eighteen. At least the match was spectacular, I suppose that was a plus.
A bit more silence came forth.
Misha LeCavalier: I am sometimes spiteful, often times petty. But rest easy, Molly. Tis not Nessa Wall situation. I do not hate you. I do not want to see your head on a pike. I do not want to see you bleeding. However, I do want to prove to you that we are the same caliber of wrestler. I do want to debunk your best wrestler within Empire theory. You may not be privy to accept it, however, I am one of the premier talents here in Empire. Period. My career and CWC accomplishments also speak for themselves. And what better to prove these facts to you than by defeating you for the Empire Championship?
She rose her eyebrow.
Misha LeCavalier: Indeed. There is no better way.
Misha placed both feet on the stage so the she could reposition herself in her seat. She then crossed her left leg over her right one and leaned forward a bit. A bit of time passed before she spoke again.
Misha LeCavalier: Kenzie, Molly, I know the following words shall far on deaf ears. Nonetheless, Id employ the two of you truly examine what I have done within my time in Empire and the CWC as a whole. My videos had this promotion was buzzing upon my arrival. I have engaged in technical clinics and hellacious brawls. Hate me or love me, peoples eyes are turned towards me. Win, lose, or draw, people clear their schedules to tune in and see what sort of fantastic feat I shall pull off in the ring. I conquered the thirty-two person beast known as Global Warfare. I have traveled the globe defending the International Championship against the best the that foreign CWC territories have offered.
The picture zoomed in a bit on Misha face.
Misha LeCavalier: So I think its high time I take center stage at the top of Empire Pro. Despite having to fight the best Empire Champion to date. Despite the unmerited and unwanted insertion of a third party. The spotlight shall be on me.
Her lips curved and formed into a wicked smirk.
Misha LeCavalier: An when I am finally able to host that Empire Championship high into the air, after having stepped over the broken pieces of aspirationsit will be oh so very sweet.
The crimson curtains suffocated each other as they closed. The lights that illuminated the stage shut off. And the camera lingered there in dark silence for moment before the fed cut out.
MAIN EVENT: TRIPLE THREAT
EPW Empire Championship
Molly Reid (c) vs Kenzie Rydell vs Misha LeCavalier
[/size]
RECAP
The match began with all three women staring one another down. There was an unquestionable big match feel to the bout - but none of the trio showed any sign of nerves. All three moved in and a brawl broke out. Whether intended or not, Misha and Molly worked to beat Kenzie down to the canvas. They stomped away, until Kenzie was left hunched over in the corner.
As was probably ienvitable, Misha and Molly then turned their attention to each other. Though the women initially went blow for blow, the Empire Champion began to wear Misha down with her greater speed. Reid bounced off the ropes but was shut down with a harsh clothesline, a trademark of her hard hitting style. The blow seemed to knock Molly a little groggy. Misha pulled her up and landed a snap suplex, into a rear headlock. Misha squeezed the hold for several seconds, before standing and switching to a half-Nelson, before she lifted and then slammed Reid back down to the canvas with the half-Nelson suplex.
Misha stood and looked down at Molly, but her attention was soon brought back to Kenzie, who jumped up onto LeCavalier's back and punched the side of her head. Misha flailed and span, trying to get Kenzie off, but the punches saw her drop to her knees and attempt to cover up. Kenzie stood and landed a hard kick into Misha's ribs.
Molly stood and Kenzie smacked her with a hook kick. She ran at the ropes and bounced back with a springboard dropkick that sent Reid flying into the corner. Kenzie motioned to the crowd, drawing a cheer, and charged in - but ate the bottom of Molly's boot. Reid threw her legs up and took Rydell down with a hurricanrana out of the corner. Molly slowly got up. Misha was using the ropes to stand, but a clothesline saw her thrown to the outside.
Reid turned her attention back to Kenzie and pulled her to her feet. She threw her across the ring and caught her with a powerslam on the rebound. She moved to the turnbuckle and landed a massive diving somersault leg drop! She hooked Kenzie's leg, but it was just a two! Molly rose to her feet and returned to the turnbuckle. This time, though, Kenzie ran in and knocked her off balance. Rydell managed a superplex, leaving both women down. Several moments passed before either women began to stir. Both slowly rose to their feet.
Molly suddenly burst to life and landed her Thats Using Your Face (Double knee facebreaker)! Kenzie staggered backward and straight into Misha's Queen Slayer (King Kong Lariat)! The blow sent Rydell to the outside, to Misha's clear displeasure. Misha turned back and narrowly avoided a Molly Kick (superkick). Reid caught her leg on the top rope, which gave Misha the opening she needed to slam her down to the canvas and lock her into the Rondo of Terror I (Seated Fujiwara Armbar). Molly screamed as Misha cranked the arm. The champion reached out to try and grab the rope, but Misha had positioned her just far enough away. LeCavalier, usually so calm and reserved, shouted at Molly to submit, but Reid refused.
Still Misha maintained the hold! Molly's hand hovered above the mat. Had she reached her limit? Kenzie didn't want to find out, she rolled into the ring and broke the hold with a dropkick to Misha's back. Molly rolled from the ring, holding her arm, as Misha stood. The Jackknife Kick (tornado roundhouse kick) connected! LeCavalier dropped to the canvas. Kenzie scrambled to make the pin. One. Two. Foot on the rope! Kenzie couldn't believe it.
She stood and leaned on the ropes, shaking her head. Before Misha could stand, Molly grabbed Kenzie by the ankles and dragged her to the outside. She planted Rydell's skull into the ring post, leaving her down on the outside. Reid rolled back into the ring and watched as Misha slowly stood. Molly charged in. The Aaron Donald (Spear) missed! Reid rebounded off the ropes and Misha landed a high roundhouse. Reid crashed down and Misha went for her lionsault - but Molly got her knees up and Misha crunched down hard.
Both women slowly stood. OH! The Molly Kick connected! Misha tumbled over the top rope and out to the mats below. Molly dropped to her knees, exhausted. Behind her, Kenzie Rydell slowly rolled back into the ring. Molly stood again. She went for the Molly Kick once more. Kenzie ducked! She turned back. The Jackknife Kick! Molly fell back to the canvas. Kenzie grabbed her legs. Though slow, thanks to her own exhaustion, she tried to apply the Paragon Deathlock (standing Indian deathlock). Molly resisted. But it wasn't enough, Kenzie locked the move in!
Molly screamed in agony. After all of the earlier damage done to her, could she withstand the move? She tried to reach out and break the hold, but Kenzie managed to retain her balance. Molly covered her face and bit down on her knuckle. Her hand hovered above the mat. Could it be?
NO! The Queen Slayer connected! Where had Misha come from?! Kenzie crashed to the canvas, HARD. LeCavalier made the cover. One. Molly tried to move. Two. Could she... THREE! Molly dived at the pin a moment too late.
Misha stood quickly and staggered, falling into the ropes and then down to her knees. She looked up at the crowd, a tear in her eye, shock on her face. She covered her mouth as she was handed both her CWC International Championship and her new Empire Championship.
Standing again, she raised the titles aloft. Molly rolled to her back, hands over her face, whilst Kenzie looked up at the lights above without moving.
Misha moved to the turnbuckle and struggled to climb, but persevered. The show closed with a shot of her holding her titles up in the air, as fireworks went off on the stage.
WINNER and NEW EPW Empire Champion
Misha LeCavalier
METHOD
Pinfall
MATCH LENGTH
21:13
FINISHING MOVE
The Queen Slayer (King Kong Lariat)
Join us tomorrow for night two!