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SINGLES MATCH
Thaddeus Bancroft vs Jayson Matthews
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{The drum fill kicks in the door and the guitar riff of 311’s Perfect Mistake starts blasting over the PA system.}“Listen Up!”
{The arena lights start changing from orange to black on the beat and Jayson Matthews comes bouncing from behind the curtain and head banging to the riff. His Invictus Championship firmly around his waste. He jams to the verse as he starts to walk down the ramp, slapping fives with as many fans as he can on either side.}This is the next stage, we turn the page
We're gonna wreck a place when we take the stage
Roll up your sleeves, get down with me
It's going off in the pit like you wouldn't believe
Alison Valance: Weighing in at 200 pounds, hailing from Detroit, Michigan… JAYSON MATTHEWS!
{Jayson stands at the end of the ramp and stares into the ring and he starts to bounce up and down and hypes himself up and as soon as the chorus hits he dives into the ring forward rolls onto his feet and runs over to the side opposite the ramp and leans over the ring holding out his Championship. While the lights strobe orange and black.}“Ohhhhhhhhhh
See in it my eyes
Hold it in my hands
All those days that you wasted away
There was no one to blame
It's a perfect mistake
{He hops up on the turnbuckle and holds out the Invictus title with one arm and points to the crowd with his other hand. Thanking the fans for the cheers and displaying the title to the fans.}Terri Morasco: Jayson has had a trying time of late, can he get his head back in the game tonight?
Vasco Dias: The answer is no, Terri, look at this idiot.
Terri Morasco: You’re underestimating one of the best in ring talents of this generation, Vasco.
{The lights dim as the pipes of "The British Grenadiers" hits the arena speakers and then from the rafters comes swinging Thaddeus, dressed in a long coat, top hat and flying a Union Jack umbrella as he laughs brightly moving for the ring, he takes a moment to regail his subjects, wiping his feet on the apron and climbing in.}Vasco Dias: Now this man right here, this is a true gentleman and he’s about to beat this scoundrel Jayson Matthews all over this arena.
Terri Morasco: Thaddeus is… unique, but there’s not denying that under his skulduggery and tricks there’s a serious competitor in there who is quite willing to exploit any openings.
Vasco Dias: Mark my words, Terri, Matthews hasn’t got a chance against this upstanding man.
{The bell rings and the two men go to lock up, with Jayson getting the early advantage allowed him to push Thaddeus backwards who leaps up and charges at his opponent only to get struck with a clothesline that leaves him bouncing over-emphatically off the canvas. Bancroft gets up and this time swings a right hook with Matthews manages to dodge, but he doesn’t miss with a following left which sends Matthew staggering. Bancroft tries to capitalise on this but is met with an enziguri which soon rattles his head, but doesn’t send him to the mat. Jayson follows this up with a spinning backfist which sends the Brit reeling into the turnbuckles followed up with a big splash that sends him once again dramatically flopping down each turnbuckle before hitting the canvas.}Terri Morasco: Bancroft almost took control here but it’s Matthew with the early momentum.
Vasco Dias: All temporary, Morasco, Bancroft is just being a good sport and putting on a show for these peasants.
{Jayson waits for Bancroft to lift himself up and he soon regrets doing so as Matthews leaps up and wraps his legs around the neck of Thaddeus and plants him with a headscissors. Matthews is in peak form here early on and follows this up with a huge leg drop which pops the crowd as he goes for an early cover but he only manages a one count before Bancroft expertly breaks the pin with a foot on the ropes. Frustrated Matthews pulls him by the other leg into the middle of the ring and lifts him up before backing off a little and lunging forward to perform a inch perfect tornado DDT which leaves Bancroft completely dazed. Thaddeus staggers to his feet but is dropped again with a spinning wheel kick which nearly knocks his head off as Matthews goes in for another pin but he still only manages to get a two count. Bancroft is down but he isn’t out.}Vasco Dias: This is just unacceptable, those blows to the head shouldn’t be legal!
Terri Morasco: This is a combat sport, Vasco.
Vasco Dias: Yes, but Jayson should be striking his social betters!
{Jayson grabs Thaddeus and prepares to hit him with a bulldog but before he can Bancroft reaches up and rakes at his eyes! The referee doesn’t spot it but Matthews feels the full brunt of it and he lets go of Bancroft as he clutches at his face. Bancroft meanwhile uses his position to lift Matthews up and land him with a backdrop before going for a quick pin, which doesn’t get him too far, much to his annoyance. Opting to not lose momentum he lifts Jayson up and hits him with a suplex, followed by another and completed with a leaping knee drop to the face. Bancroft is rapidly taking control of this match up, all thanks to some “ingenuity” on his part.}Vasco Dias: Expert dismantling here by Thaddeus, what a performer.
Terri Morasco: Jayson looks in bad shape here, he’s rapidly losing his grip on this match. What a disgusting move.
Vasco Dias: It’s time for Thaddeus to take out the trash!
{Thaddeus is very pleased with himself as he circles his prey, all the while taunting the crowd favourite who is looking in a bad way here. Bancroft lands a few boots into the prone body of Matthews who is in little need of anymore punishment here tonight. Yet, as Bancroft leaps into the air to drop an elbow he only meets canvas as Jayson rolls out of the way! Thaddeus yelps out in pain as he clutches his arm and Jayson gets back to his feet as the crowd will him on, begging him to get back in this contest. Jayson steadies himself on the ropes as Bancroft tries his best to recover, but he is yet to get up. Jayson goes to swing a boot into Thaddeus but he is met with the man raising his arms, pleading for “mercy.” Matthews withdraws his kick just at the last moment and stands dumbfounded as he looks down at Bancroft who is quite adamant that the men call what he loudly declares as a “ceasefire.”}Vasco Dias: This is disgusting, he’s unarmed!
Terri Morasco: This is a wrestling match not gun fight, Vasco.
Vasco Dias: So you’re saying you condone the slaughtering of unarmed upstanding citizens!?
{Thaddeus is on his knees, begging Jason not to attack him as the crowd wills on their hero to vanquish the villainous rogue. Jayson looks back and forth, pondering his options but as he does so Thaddeus launches his arm upwards… straight into the families jewels of Matthews! Bancroft eagerly rolls up Jayson with an Elementary roll-up pin in such a swift movement it’s almost impossible to tell that he’s struck Jayson illegally and kicks his feet excitedly at the mat… only to look up with confusion as the bell rings and Jayson’s music begins to play. Thaddeus can’t believe it, he gets up to remonstrate with the official who tries to explain that low blows are illegal to Thaddeus, who plays completely innocent. The official insists he spotted the low blow which Bancroft continues to deny.}Vasco Dias: This is an outrage, I’ve not seen proof that Jayson Matthew has any testicles! How can the official rule on such a disputable matter?
Terri Morasco: Wait… are you requesting that IWF does a live sexing of Jayson Matthews?
Vasco Dias: I… erm… this is still outrageous! I won’t stand for it!
{Bancroft is livid, he simply cannot believes this as he gets in the officials face. The official warns him again and without missing a step… Bancroft strikes the official with a glove he removes from his pocket! Thaddeus demands a micrphone.}Terri Morasco: Did I just see what I think I just saw? Did Thaddeus Bancroft just challenge the referee to a duel!?
Vasco Dias: Genius! He cannot allow this black mark against his name!
Thaddeus Bancroft: This is an outrage, I will not allow this man to stain my honour in such a way. You sir, have made a slanderous accusation against me and I absolutely refuse to leave this ring until I have gotten satisfaction for this slight!
{Thaddeus tosses the microphone to one side to the amusement of the capacity crowd who egg him on as he rolls up his sleeves and begins to prepare himself for fisticuffs, bouncing back and forth as he distributes verbal barbs against the official who stands looking gobsmacked. Bancroft finally has enough and lunges forward… only to receive a big kick from a recovered Jayson Matthews! The crowd erupts as Bancroft scarpers under the ropes and away from the pursuing hero, clearly unpleased that he has been denied his retribution as the official raises Jayson’s hand. Bancroft scuttles away cursing as we head towards a commercial break.}----------------------------------------------------------
SEGMENT
”Coming Along Nicely”
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Fiona McFly: Hi there. May I come in?
{We find James Gilmore sitting in a leather chair in a tattered, vacant office, reading his notebook journal as Fiona McFly knocked on the partially-opened door. James shook his head, opting to stick to his writing...}James Gilmore: Leave me in peace...I don’t wanna talk to no one.
{...but Fiona didn't placate to him at all. She calmly, with just a hint of defiance, stepped into the room.}James Gilmore: (raises left brow) Did I tell ya you could come in? Ya know I could--
Fiona McFly: (cuts Gilmore off with a wave of her hand) --write a report of how I was sexually harassing you, I’ve heard that before--especially from less honourable people. But you’re more honourable than what you’re putting on--you’re just..hurting on the inside. So why can’t I be the one, if not the ONLY one, to reach out and help you?
{James sighed, watching as Fiona sat down on a black leather sofa that had seen better days. She noted Gilmore's journal and gave him a slight wink.}Fiona McFly: I see you've been writing in your journal. What are you writing about?
James Gilmore: It's...a complicated mess about my time at the Palace. Too big for even you to understand. All you should know is that an accident happened on my private beachhead and a dude wound up dead--and I gotta learn to live with that PLUS the fact I will never trust a single for the rest of my life. So I wound up in a place that's like Hogwarts, Shawshank, and Deep Space Nine all rolled into one wrestlin' school--all on some damn rediscovery mission.
{Fiona laughed as she munched on some Plain M&Ms.}Fiona McFly: I understand PLENTY, lovely. I double majored in Political Science and Communication to know that many CAREERS have been ended on a simple accusation--and make no mistake about it, those things have to be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated. Sadly... there are those who aren’t willing to give the accused their turn to defend themselves and will judge them guilty even if evidence points to the contrary--your case is a prime example. And that’s not how our society should be run. It is wrong, it is immoral, but unfortunately the court of public opinion is just another part of th life we live in--they’re no worse than the Pack, just on a grander measurement. They’ll pile up all the shit they can on you, and it’s your duty to overcome that and clean up the mess left behind.
{James slammed his spiral shut, taking offense to the word "duty."}James Gilmore: Oh pffft, get on with it already. I ain’t the type of dude that wants to listen to Sir Patrick Stewart 2.0 lecture ME on the merits of what is and what ain’t the “honorable” thing to do--just as tiresome as Tristan, only worse.
Fiona McFly: (raises both eyebrows) What?!
James Gilmore: You -have- heard of "Star Trek: The Next Generation"...right?
{Fiona shook her head and stood up, her face growing slightly red as she approached the desk.}Fiona McFly: This is more to me than just a simple case of helping someone in need for the sake of doing so…
{James cut Fiona off with a seriously demonic stare...}James Gilmore: You LIE!
{...prompting Fiona to get right into his face and scream right back.}Fiona McFly: ...this is about being a good mentor, about LEARNING TO GIVE BACK TO OTHER PEOPLE FOR WHAT THEY’VE DONE FOR ME--ESPECIALLY AFTER JACK DIED!
{The very mentioon of Jack's death startles James, who slinks back in his chair and tries to fold his arms; Fiona, on the other hand, has none of it and yanks him by the shirt collar, her lips quivering as she makes an attempt to get through to him.}Fiona McFly: Look at me...you had an accident that resulted in the death of another person--even if that person was sent to do you harm, you had no choice but to stand your ground even in the face of certain tragedy. It’s unfortunate that something like it happened to you, but it’s a part of the path we walk every fucking day ‘cos accidents or tragedies can happen to ME or to ANYONE else. The true test of a person's soul lies in how you can overcome that...but being angry and self-defencive ‘cos someone betrayed you and became an indirect cause is not the right way to live. Fuck SAKE, you’re KILLING yourself in the heart ‘cos you don’t want to take the time to sit down, step back, and LET other people help you...and it’s making ME angry as well.
{Fiona lets go of James' shirt and sits back on the sofa.}Fiona McFly: I feel your pain, I feel that you’re hurt, that you have to live with a burden that NOBODY should ever have to live with. I have to live with the burden of being the lone daughter of an IRA terrorist sympathiser--one that chopped me father's DICK off whilst I watched as a child--for the rest of me life...but I’ve learned to overcome that by earning two degrees and allowing myself to be enriched in this business instead of moping the FUCK around and doing nothing save for engage in self-pity. That’s the mark of a coward, NEVER a hero...and that can’t be you. Now YOU have to learn what it’s like to overcome your burden...and rediscover who you once were and what you REALLY wanted to be. Maybe you’ll figure out why Yulia recommended you to enter her father’s Palace...
{James nodded hesitantly, taking a deep breath as he opened up his notebook and took out his modern day quill pen.}Fiona McFly: I don’t want you to think I’m lecturing you. I just...I just don’t want to see a life become wasted ‘cos of something like repressed anger. Me Granpapa used to say…”when one is angry for a very long time, he or she starts to depend on it...like an addictive drug. Pretty soon...they’ll be so addicted, so tied down to that drug that they won’t feel any other emotion except anger much less remember any other feelings they once had.”
James Gilmore: What’s the point?
Fiona McFly: Point is real simple love...you HAVE to be willing to talk to other people. Even if you don’t want to trust or LIKE anyone, a line of communication goes ways-a-way to helping you grow as a person. Believe me, I know that from the messages I got after Jack died...and I told everyone how much I loved them, that I'd be there for anyone. If you just want to share with me, you come talk to me. ‘Cos me ear will always be open...all you need to do is utilise it.
{James sat at his desk, dumbfounded and confused by Fiona's messaging. Yet...he mustered a slight, sheepish grin--knowing that, perhaps, this was an opportunity he just couldn't pass up.}James Gilmore: Palace has wi-fi, I'll try to talk to ya on Skype during breaks. I get two Kumite matches daily, plus trainin’ classes and performance evaluations.
{Fiona stood up and headed towards the door, but not before turning her head and giving James a determined, resolute gaze.}Fiona McFly: Don't 'try' James. Talk to me...or you don't. There is NO "try."
{Fiona strolled on out of the room, leaving James alone and deep in thought.}----------------------------------------------------------
SINGLES MATCH
Vivienne Rodgers vs Crystal Hilton
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Terri Morasco: Open fight night always has some very interesting matches on the card.
Vasco Dias: Crystal made some promises that I look forward to her keeping. She promised that she was going to get back on top of this company and I for one look forward to it.
Alison Valance: The following match is scheduled for ONE FALL.
Terri Morasco: You have a problem with the new talent that IWF has brought into the company?
Vasco Dias: No. But I think it’s time the kids move off to the side and understand—no!-- respect all of those who paved the way for them.
Alison Valance: Coming down to the ring from Madison Wisconsin…. VIVIENNE RODGERS!
{The opening trumpets to Confident by Demi Lovato begin to play as the lights in the ring drop, leaving gold and green spotlights on the stage and ramp. The lights in the arena pulse with similar colors as the bass kicks in. Vivienne herself does not appear until the lyrics begin in Earnest, walking on from backstage with Ciara alongside her.}Terri Morasco: You don’t think Vivienne Rodgers respects those who came before her?
Vasco Dias: I think most of these girls have been treating a lot of the more seasoned talent like they don’t matter. As afterthoughts more than legitimate competition. Crystal says she’s going to change that. I look forward to it.
{Vivienne grins confidently as she raises a fist into the air on stage, holding the pose for a few seconds before stepping toward the ring, throwing a few punches and a kick as she begins to walk. She jumps up onto the apron, walking alongside the outer part of the ring before going in over the top rope, interacting with the crowd as she circles the inside of the ring. Ciara follows her in, circling opposite her and working to get the crowd psyched up for the match. She takes to the center of the ring as the chorus plays, raising her fists into the air before she and her manager share a high five before Vivienne settles into her corner as Ciara slips out to ringside.}Terri Morasco: I think you’re oversimplifying things a little.
Vasco Dias: Who can say?
Alison Valance: From Los Angeles California…. CRYSTAL HILTON!
Vasco Dias: I’ve been waiting for this all night.
5
4
3
2
1
THE SILVER SCREEN QUEEN IS HERE!!!!
{I’m Coming Out by Diana Ross begins to blast all across the speakers and as that happens we are able to see Christina Millar emerging through the backstage curtain and the roaring cheers of the crowd are deafening. She isn’t alone as her best friend Zelda Knite comes out beside her. Crystal smiles as her grouping of paparazzi gather up in front of the ring and they snag photo after of the Latina beauty. She walks down the ramp as she begins to slap the hands of the roaring crowd. The crowd cheers loudly in return as they glance back at the Hollywood hottie, and Zelda smiles as she throws up the heart symbol.}Terri Morasco: Crystal has the spring in her step again.
Vasco Dias: That’s because she is here to win.
{Her following of paparazzi meet her as does a red carpet. She takes in the appeal of the cameras smiling as flashes begin to go off one after another. She then runs up the steps where she walks towards the middle of the apron. She blows kisses out to the crowd before she drops into a split entering the ring. The crowd begins to go nuts and she waits patiently for the match to begin.}Vasco Dias: The fans know who Crystal is here. Listen to that crowd.
Terri Morasco: Both women look ready to go as soon as the bell rings.
{Both Crystal and Viv stand in the ring waiting for the bell to ring. Viv gives a brief wave and Crystal rolls her eyes and acts like she couldn’t care less.}Terri Morasco: Seems like Crystal is going back to some old tricks
Vasco Dias: Crystal is going back to her roots. Why pretend to be a nice girl when bad girls have so much more fun?
{When the bell rings Crystal runs across the ring and hits Viv with a Hurricarana, tossing her across the ring despite the size difference.}Terri Morasco: Crystal starting the match off strong here.
Vasco Dias: I love watching her do that move…
{Crystal waits until Viv stands up and hits her with a leg sweep, followed by a Small Package.}Terri Morasco: Nice choice by Crystal here. Getting Viv pinned before she can build momentum would be a good call here.
Vasco Dias: Crystal is going to end this!
{She goes for the pin.
1
2
KICK OUT}Vasco Dias: NO! Slow count! Slow count!
Terri Morasco: It really wasn’t Vasco…
{Crystal rolls off of Viv. She poses slightly to the crowd as she waits for Viv to stand up. As soon as Viv gets to her feet Crystal hits her with a bodyslam but bounces back with a pose towards the announcer’s table.}Vasco Dias: This is the best match ever.
{As Viv gets back up Crystal hits the younger women with a Smell The Roses. Crystal sits on the ropes, crossing her legs, making a show of looking at her nails as the crowd goes wild.}Terri Morasco: oh they are loving all the showboating Crystal is doing tonight.
Vasco Dias: And why shouldn’t they? She’s amazing!
{Crystal bounces off the ropes going for her next move but Viv catches her by the throat and hits her with a chokeslam into the mat.}Terri Morasco: Ouch, that has to hurt. Vivienne is picking up momentum here.
Vasco Dias: Crystal is going to cut this short. I can feel it.
{Crystal backs away and runs forward trying a different angle but Viv catches her pulling her into a Swinging Backbreaker. Viv goes for the pin.
1
KICK OUT}Vasco Dias: YES! See? Crystal is going to need a lot more to take her down. She’s the silver screen queen. Show some respect!
Terri Morasco: I agree with the point of needing more work to put her away…
{Walking to give Crystal a moment Viv stands a way giving her a moment to breathe. Crystal glares at her. She runs over knocking Viv into the ropes, Body Slamming her again. Viv pushes her back as Crystal makes another go for it, Viv catches her and powerbombs her once, twice}Terri Morasco: Oh this is not looking good for Crystal…
{While Viv makes it a Slumber Party, Crystal elbows Viv in the head.}Vasco Dias: Hit her again!
{Crystal escapes from the hold and runs across the ring, poses before rushing back to Viv hitting her with another Hurricarana. Crystal leaves Viv on the mat and climbs to the top rope, hitting her with a LIGHT CAMERA ACTION.}Vasco Dias: Keep her down, Crystal! You can do it!
Terri Morasco: I don’t think she needs you personally cheering her on, Vasco.
{With a laugh, Crystal poses slightly before going for the pins on Viv’s prone form.
1
2
3
Ding ding}Alison Valance: And you’re winner… Crystal Hilton!!
Vasco Dias: YES!
Terri Morasco: This is a good turning point for Crystal here.
{Crystal stands up with her arms outstretched as I'm Coming Out by Diana Ross hits the speakers. She has a wide smile on her face as she stands in the middle of the ring taking in the reaction of the crowd.}Terri Morasco: She looks like she is on top of the world here.
Vasco Dias: Why shouldn’t she be? The Queen is here again and she will get her way back to the top of this company by taking down as many of these young idiots as possible.
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SEGMENT
”Last Warning...”
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{As Nighthawk stands in the parking lot of Arena Mexico signing autographs for the fans who showed up to the building earlier the "Wrestling Machine" is suddenly grabbed from behind as members of the Heathen Army hold him tightly.} Nighthawk: Before you guys do whatever it is you're going to do, can we at least make sure all the kids leave?
{Ulf Hednir casually strolls onto the scene with a stunningly accurate replica of Mjolnir over his shoulder; he appears to be mildly annoyed by Nighthawk's mere presence. The Heathen Army looks to Ulf Hednir for his response to Nighthawk's request, and his eyes trail off toward the children who appear to be in a state of shock and fear of what they may witness. Ulf nods his head before speaking to members of the Heathen Army.}Ulf Hednir: Barna bør ikke være her for dette.
{Ulf taps Mjolnir against the palm of his hand; the Heathen Army nod in agreement with their leader, and Nighthawk picks up on the queue despite the language barrier and signals for the kids to leave while he is still being held.}Ulf Hednir: Dis... is din last warning, fugl. Stay. Ute. Av. Min. Vei. Stay ute av min hunt. Du vil be hurt hvis du ikke listen to meg.
{Ulf Hednir presses the replica of Mjolnir against Nighthawk's sternum, waiting for Nighthawk to give what he believes to be his only option; lest he be crushed.}Nighthawk: No. You're not going to keep doing what you're doing with no reprisals, no one to tell you to stop. And if I get hurt, it will be for a noble cause. You used to believe in those once.
{Ulf Hednir snarls at the response of Nighthawk, agitated by his refusal; Nighthawk does his best to square up Ulf Hednir but is continuing to be held as Ulf draws Mjolnir back in a seemingly peaceful fashion; the Heathen Army releases him causing Nighthawk to become baffled and stare at his captors in confusion but not for long as Ulf brings Mjolnir forward into Nighthawk's sternum! Ulf leans down over Nighthawk as he is keeled over.}Ulf Hednir: Do not. Make meg. Komme back.
{Ulf nods to the Heathen Army and they all retreat from the scene, as Nighthawk sneers at his attackers during their departure.}----------------------------------------------------------
SINGLES MATCH
Special Referee: Cable Arcane
Steve Awesome vs El Grande Malo
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{Bullet for my Valentine’s “Your Betrayal” begins to play as we are treated to a highlight package of the feud between Steve Awesome and El Grande Malo. We get various shots from their matches which culminates on Steve Awesome pulling a fast one on Malo and scoring a tainted victory before we come to the commentary booth.}Terri Morasco: The feud between Steve Awesome and El Grande Malo has been one full of deceit and lies.
Vasco Dias: Say what you want Terri but Steve Awesome did what he had to do to score a victory.
Terri Morasco: Steve Awesome lied on a medical form!
Vasco Dias: Prove that injury wasn’t legit!
Terri Morasco: You can’t prove a negative.
Vasco Dias: Exactly.
Terri Morasco: Riiiiight. However tonight will be the final match in this feud and to make sure Steve Awesome plays it straight we will have Cable Arcane as the special guest referee!
Vasco Dias: Honestly I feel like Cable is out here to screw Steve Awesome!
{“Hail to the Chief” by Jidenna hits the pa as Cable Arcane steps out through the curtain wearing a referee shirt. The crowd pops huge for Cable as he stands there for a moment and absorbs the cheers. Cable marches to the ring slapping hands with people who reach for him before walking up the steps and climbing into the ring.}Terri Morasco: Cable is out here to make sure Steve Awesome doesn’t screw Malo.
Vasco Dias: Malo screwed Malo.
{The house lights dim slightly as the words ‘OLÉ’ appear on the screen. The fans begin chanting along with the music as El Grandé Malo bursts out from behind the curtain. He stomps his way out to the center of the stage, bouncing up and down in time with the music. He hops up and down pointing into the air and quickly begins jogging down toward the ring, slapping the outstretched hands along the way, before sliding into the ring and heading for the nearest corner. He scales the turnbuckles and continues to hype up the chanting crowd before dropping down and pulling on the nearby top rope, stretching while waiting for the match to begin.}Terri Morasco: Malo has an air of seriousness about him. Steve Awesome really messed with his head and I’m sure Malo wants a pound of flesh.
Vasco Dias: Then Malo better look some place else because the only thing he’s going to get tonight is a fist full of disappointment!
{All the lights in the arena die out and the fans in attendance start chanting
his name.
"AWE-SOME! AWE-SOME! AWE-SOME!"
Dramatic Pause.
"REGRETS I'VE HAD MINE!"
The lights in the arena explode to life as they flash green and black to the beat as Steve Awesome comes running out with intensity to the hyped up chorus of "Full of Regrets" by Danko Jones.
Lonely nights/ and a whole lot of wasted time!
If you see her wont you tell her for me/
It's better this way to avoid all the misery
The chorus plays again as Steve walks down to the ring. The guitar starts soloing and Steve hops into the ring and he provocatively slips off his jacket and then spins and drops into a kneel and he flexes his arms. He gets a slow motion effect as pyro sprays behind him.}Vasco Dias: Now here is true champion, a true role model, not just a face but the face of the franchise!
Terri Morasco: Steve Awesome is also a lier, a cheater and a scoundrel.
Vasco Dias: Whatever gets you ahead in life, have you seen our president?
{Cable checks both men out, spending a little extra time with Steve than Malo before he steps back to the middle of the ring and calls for the bell.}Vasco Dias: The bias begins already.
Terri Morasco: Can you blame Cable?
Vasco Dias: Yes, yes I can.
{Steve and Malo move toward the center of the ring and Steve extends his right hand for a hand shake, Malo looks confused as Steve professes that he just wants to shake hands.}Vasco Dias: Look at the respect Steve is showing Malo!
Terri Morasco: You’re both full of it!
{Malo looks to the crowd who boo and then to Cable who shakes his head. Malo hesitates with his right hand and then extends his left!}Vasco Dias: What the hell!?
Terri Morasco: That’s how they shake hands in Mexico, Maine.
{Steve looks confused now as he looks at the left hand of Malo, Steve looks to the crowd who cheer and then to Cable who nods his head in approval. Steve reaches out with his left hand to take Malo’s. Steve takes Malo’s left hand and Malo pulls Steve right into a double underhook knee strike situation that Malo follows up with a DDT! Malo goes right for the cover and it’s a quick one count.}Terri Morasco: Malo lured Steve in!
Vasco Dias: That snake oil sales men!
{Steve gets up to his feet fast and looks pissed as Malo just shrugs and smiles. Steve and Malo lock up and Steve tries to transition into a side head lock but Malo pushes Steve off and catches Awesome with a leg lariat as he turns around. Malo runs to the corner and jumps up for a split legged moonsult and another cover. Malo goes for another cover and another one count!}Vasco Dias: Malo should have hooked the leg!
Terri Morasco: Malo is clearly trying to ware Steve out.
Vasco Dias: Well he’s failing!
{Malo and Steve are both up to their feet and Malo goes for the surprise super kick but Steve manges to get under it and grab Malo for an inverted swinging neck breaker! Malo tries to get right back up but Steve is there with a running knee lift to the gut of Malo, Steve then whips Malo into the corner of the ring and charges in with a stinger splash! Steve snapmares MAlo out of the corner and quickly covers him for a one count!}Vasco Dias: That was three!!!
Terri Morasco: WHAT!?
{Steve gets right up and glares at Cable and tells him to count faster as he claps his hands. Steve turns back to Malo who is standing up and catches him with a leg lariat of his own. Malo tries to bounce right up but catches a running forearm right into a hammerlock back drop! Malo pushes himself back up and Steve goes for the Jawbreaker but Malo ducks it this time and then catches Steve with the surprise superkick!!!}Terri Morasco: Steve Awesome is down!
Vasco Dias: NO!
{Malo hooks both legs of Steve Awesome as Cable drops into position. ONE! TWO! KICK OUT!}Terri Morasco: A near three for Malo!
Vasco Dias: That was a fast count on Cable’s part!
Terri Morasco: That was a perfectly normal count!
Vasco Dias: TO YOU!
{Steve and Malo are both up at the same time but Malo hits a forearm shot then a low shin kick, another shin kick, a spinning heel kick and finally a pump kick that sends Steve into the turnbuckles. Malo runs across the ring and bounces off the turnbuckles before coming back with a hang time drop kick to Steve Awesome in the corner of the ring! Malo quickly pulls Steve up to his feet for a Brainbuster right onto his knee! Malo covers Steve with both legs hooked again. Cable counts ONE! TWO! KICK OUT!}Vasco Dias: Can Cable slow it down!
Terri Morasco: He’s counting perfectly normally!
Vasco Dias: No! Cable is trying to screw Steve Awesome!
Terri Morasco: Are you just mad that Malo could win!?
Vasco Dias: That’s impossible!
{Malo pops right back to his feet and gets a running start before hitting the ropes with a spring board moonsult but Steve Awesome is able to roll out of the way and Malo lands flat on his face. Steve is up to his feet as Malo tries to recover and Steve grabs Malo for EJECTED! Steve quickly leaps onto the body of Malo and screams for Cable to count. Cable drops down and ONE! TWO! KICK OUT!}Vasco Dias: SLOW COUNT!
{Steve is right up and screams at Cable to do his damn job. Cable warns him to calm down. Malos grabs Steve from behind for a roll up and Cable slides right into position for a ONE! TWO! KICK OUT!}Vasco Dias: Are you serious!?
Terri Morasco: Steve needs to focus!
Vasco Dias: Cable needs to do his damn job!
Terri Morasco: HE IS!
{Both men get right to their feet but Malo is able to grab Steve for an exploder suplex right into the corner of the ring. Malo grabs Steve and pulls him up to his feet for a wheelbarrow lift into a double knee lung blower! Malo rolls both Steve’s legs up into a cover and Cable drops in for a ONE! TWO! KICK OUT!}Vasco Dias: I’m getting real tired of Cable’s fast counts!
Terri Morasco: What match are you watching!?
Vasco Dias: This travesty in front of us! Steve is wrestling a great match and Malo is taking advantage of a crooked ref!
Terri Morasco: How did you get this job?
{Malo gets up and Steve is right behind him. Steve throws the Jawbreaker again but Malo ducks it and then scoops Steve up for a massive Blue Thunder Bomb! Malo goes for another cover. ONE! TWO! KICK OUT! Malo gets right up and so does Steve but he’s slow. Malo rushes in for a cross body block but Steve catches Malo and drops him over his knee for a backbreaker.}Vasco Dias: Nice backbreaker!
{Malo tries to get right back up but Steve finally catches him with the JAWBREAKER! Malo is flat on his back and Steve goes right for the cover. ONE! TWO! KICK OUT!}Vasco Dias: That was a three count!
Terri Morasco: Not even close!
{Steve is up, Malo is right there but Steve hits two rapped fire running elbows then goes for the scoop slam, Steve then bounces off the ropes for a running senton, Awesome pops back up and hits the ropes hard then struts in with a shit eating grin on his face before dropping a big elbow drop on Malo. Steve arrogantly hooks the leg of Malo while calling Cable in. Cable drops down and ONE! TWO! KICK OUT!}Vasco Dias: I can’t even take how biased Cable is being.
Terri Morasco: You can’t even?
Vasco Dias: I can’t even.
{Once again Steve is right up and accusing Cable of a slow count and Cable tells him to get out of his face. Steve tells him he’s this close to knocking him out and Cable dares him to try. In the mean time Malo has climbed back up to his feet. Steve turns around and walks right into the el Maximo Dano! Steve is in the center of the ring and near tapping out as Malo wrenches on him. Steve struggles and claws at the mat before finally getting his finger tips on the ropes where Cable is forced to break the hold.}Terri Morasco: Malo is wrestling the match of his life!
Vasco Dias: Thanks to poor calls from the referee!
Terri Morasco: Thanks to Cable forcing Steve to wrestle this match straight with no BS!
{Malo is up and rushes to the corner of the ring. Steve is struggling to stand and uses Cable to get his footing. Cable is trying to push him off as Malo comes running across the ring looking for a running boot, Steve sees Malo in the corner of his eye and ducks the boot and Malo connects with the face of Cable Arcane!!!}Vasco Dias: MALO BOOTED CABLE!!!
Terri Morasco: That son of a bitch Steve Awesome!
{Malo looks down at Cable with a concerned look on his face not noticing that Steve Awesome is back to his feet and behind Malo. Malo turns around right into Steve Awesome scooping him up for the STEVEKO!!!! Malo is down and Steve makes the cover as another referee rushes out from the back to make the count. The new referee slides in and ONE! TWO! THREE!!!!}Vasco Dias: Justice has been served!
Terri Morasco: Steve Awesome took advantage of a distraction!
Vasco Dias: Steve Awesome did what needed to be done!
{Steve Awesome pops right up to boos from the crowd and sucks them in like they’re cheers.}Terri Morasco: What a rotten piece of crap.
Vasco Dias: Don’t be mad that he won.
Terri Morasco: I’m mad that Steve Awesome clearly set Cable up.
Vasco Dias: And who’s fault is it that Cable fell for it?
{Steve is all smiles as he celebrates but Cable Arcane is back up now and looks like he’s calling for a mic but without notice Steve Awesome catches Cable with a JAWBREAKER!!!}Vasco Dias: JAWBREAKER!!!!
Terri Morasco: What the hell is Awesome doing!?
Vasco Dias: Steve is giving Cable a taste of his own medicine!
Terri Morasco: Steve Awesome just laid out his boss!
Vasco Dias: Good, the son of a bitch deserved it!
{Steve steps over Cable as he holds his hands up in victory as his music plays.}----------------------------------------------------------
SEGMENT
”This is Only the Beginning...”
----------------------------------------------------------
Rachel Grimes: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, Mike Laszlo.
{The camera pans out and we see Mike standing next to Rachel, his hands on his hips, clearly not himself.}Rachel Grimes: First off, on behalf of the entire IWF, and the fans, I would like to express our condolences for the loss you and Alexis suffered over the weekend.
{Mike nods in appreciation.}Rachel Grimes: I know it might be hard to focus, but last week, Derek Brooks returned and said he was ready to take your spot, do you have anything to say after having time to dwell on it?
Mike Laszlo: First off, thank you for the condolences. Second, who the hell is Derek Brooks? He’s a pumped up meathead with charisma dripping from his pores. In the IWF? He’s a set of muscles with a big mouth that seems to always get him in trouble, and this time is no different.
{Mike turns from Rachel to the camera.}Mike Laszlo: So as the songs says Derek, look in these eyes, what do you see? I’ll tell you what you see...a pissed off son of a bitch. You want my spot? Do what I tell all the rest, cross that damn line, get in the ring and EARN...GAH!
{Mike gets blasted from behind by Derek who continues the assault, throwing Mike into a set of cases nearby.}Derek Brooks: You want me to earn it you sumbitch? You want me to TAKE your spot? You got it.
{Derek reaches up and pulls the cases down on top of Mike, the crates bouncing off of his back and all over the floor.}Derek Brooks: This...is only the beginning.
{He lays in a final boot before walking off as Rachel and backstage personnel surround Mike to check on his well being.}----------------------------------------------------------
SINGLES MATCH
Gabriela Luna vs Alexis Caffrey
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Alison Valance: Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall…
{The relentless opening chords of "Vortex" by Los Savants crash out as Gabriela Luna dashes out onto the stage, throwing her fist into the air to the cheers of the crowd. She shouts at the crowd, beckoning them on with her hands, and grins widely at them before turning and charging down the ramp. Gabriela leaps and slides feet-first under the bottom rope, rolling to her feet and coming up with a defiant shout of joy. She runs over to the nearest empty corner, leaping up onto the second turnbuckle and further beckoning the crowd on before hopping down into a crouch and waiting for the match to start.}Alison Valance: From Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, weighing in at 105 pounds GABRIELA...LUUUUNA!
Terri Morasco: Gabriela issued this challenge. She says it’s returning the favor from the middle of last year where Alexis cost her a Diamonds Title Match by attacking then champion Paige Garcia.
Vasco Dias: That’s what she claims, but there’s a part of me that thinks she’s jealous. Alexis came back to the Diamonds Division, and thinks she belongs at the top where she left off, and Gabriela has other ideas.
Alison Valance: And her opponent…
{“Cult of Love” by Living Colour hits the sound system with a slow piano theme. The drums beat as "Cult of Personality" is mashed in just as Alexis slowly walks out onto the stage. She pauses a moment and looks around as the crowd cheer her before heading down to the ring, her gaze not leaving Gabriela.}Alison Valance: Making her way to the ring, from Cleveland, Ohio, weighing in at 115 pounds, she is an IWF Hall of Famer...Alexis Caffreeeey!!!
{She gets to the ring and climbs up on the apron. She steps in under the middle rope and heads to the corner opposite the entrance ramp waiting for the match to begin.}Terri Morasco: I have to give Alexis credit. She’s been through a lot this week with the death of her mother this past weekend and what just happened to her husband in the backstage area. We offer our condolences, and the fact that she’s out here ready to compete is unbelievable.
Vasco Dias: Obviously losing a parent is never easy, and as you said, condolences from all of us here at IWF. That tragic event though has got to be weighing on her mind right now on top of what just happened. She can’t be 100% focused right now.
{The music dies down and the two women walk to the center of the ring, Gabriela clearly not sharing those same condolences as she hauls off and slaps Alexis in the face, showing that Latina temper while yelling at Alexis about costing her a Diamonds Title Shot in the middle of last year.}Terri Morasco: A hard slap across the face from Gabriela.
Vasco Dias: That was clearly a receipt for last year.
{Without notice, Alexis charges Gabriela, pouncing on top of her and raining down with lefts and rights on Gabriela who does her best to cover up before managing to shove Alexis off. The two get to their feet and Alexis takes down Gabriela again before being shoved off. The referee holds Alexis back as Gabriela leans in the corner, holding her jaw where it appears Alexis may have connected with a few shots.}Terri Morasco: Alexis coming out of the gate a ball of fire.
Vasco Dias: All the emotion that is flooding through her is escaping through the violence in the ring.
{The referee waits for both competitors to be able to continue and allows them to go at it again, the two locking up in the center of the ring, and this is where Gabriela gets her first lick in with a knee to the gut of Alexis before hooking Alexis up and hitting her with a Snap Suplex toward the center of the ring. Alexis holds her back in pain as Gabriela wastes no time, grabbing hold of the Hall of Famer, pulling her to her feet, only to flip her over again with a Snap Suplex, this time floating into a cover but only gets a two count before pulling Alexis to her feet and locking her in a headlock.}Vasco Dias: And just like that Gabriela has taken control of Alexis.
Terri Morasco: She has that headlock wrenched in pretty tight.
{Alexis backs Luna into the ropes before launching her to the far side. Alexis reverses and it’s Luna into the ropes. Alexis thinks she has the upper hand but Luna twists around and hits Alexis with a Headscissor Takedown. Alexis is back to her feet and Gabriela charges forward, taking her down with a Clothesline, and another, and another, and seems to be gaining steam. She grabs Alexis by the arm and pulls her forward, only to trip her up with a Drop Toe Hold. Luna is quick to her feet, running off the ropes and leveling the Hall of Famer with a knee to the head! She rolls Alexis over and goes for the cover, only to get a two count once again, slapping the mat in a bit of frustration.}Vasco Dias: The temper seems to be flaring a bit for Gabriela.
Terri Morasco: Alexis is a former Hall of Famer and two time Diamonds Champion, it’s going to take a lot to put her down.
{Gabriela is up, grabbing Alexis by the head, looking for the Aerial Spike, but Alexis grabs hold of her arm and twirls out of it, pulling Luna forward into a Urinage, quickly transitioning into an Anaconda Vice submission hold!}Terri Morasco: She’s got it locked in!
Vasco Dias: Luna is doing whatever she can to break free of the hold.
{Gabriela starts kicking and screaming in pain as Alexis wrenches back on the hold, but Gabriela is able to rotate enough to where her kicking feet start kicking the ropes before she finally gets a foot rested on the bottom rope.}Terri Morasco: She gets to the bottom rope and is able to break the hold.
Vasco Dias: She may have got to the ropes, but the pain of that hold is apparent.
{Alexis is pushed back by the referee who is checking on Gabriela who is leaned up against the turnbuckle, grasping at her shoulder, wincing in pain. She’s up to her feet and no sooner does she say she can go, does Alexis run into the corner with a knee to the face before dragging Luna out of the corner with a Bulldog into the center of the ring.}Vasco Dias: The momentum has turned!
Terri Morasco: It sure has and Alexis goes for her first cover of the match but only gets a nearfall.
{Alexis is back to her feet quickly grabbing Luna by the head, looking for the “Imagine This” Shiranui but Luna is able to push her off, chest first into the corner. Gabriela charges in but Alexis clocks her with a back elbow to the face, knocking her toward the center of the ring. Alexis charges, lunging into the air, dropping Gabriela with a “Graceful Letdown” DDT!}Terri Morasco: She just spiked Luna into the mat with that DDT variation.
Vasco Dias: Here’s the cover.
{Alexis hooks the leg...one...two...Gabriela kicks out!}Terri Morasco: So close!
Vasco Dias: Now she’s setting her up.
{Alexis stares down Luna before charging forward, twisting her body around her victim, looking for the Entanglement, but Gabriela is able to block it, standing Alexis up before stomping on the back of her knee. Alexis crumbles to the mat and Luna takes off for the rope, returning with a Onatopp Driver, planting Alexis’ face right into the mat!}Terri Morasco: ONATOPP DRIVER!
Vasco Dias: The cover!
{Gabriela hooks the leg...ONE! TWO! NOOOO!}Terri Morasco: Alexis gets her shoulder off the mat!
Vasco Dias: Luna doesn’t look happy.
{Gabriela sees Alexis down in perfect position and climbs the turnbuckle looking for a high risk maneuver. She stands up on the top rope before lunging off, twisting through the air with a Phoenix Splash, ALEXIS MOVES OUT OF THE WAY!}Terri Morasco: She may have took a bit too much time getting up there.
Vasco Dias: There’s a reason they call it high risk!
{Gabriela is doubled over, clutching her midsection in pain as Alexis backs into the corner behind her. She stands, crouched, ready to pounce, and as Gabriela turns, Alexis charges forward, leaps through the air, grabbing Gabriela by the head, twirling toward the center of the ring, and driving bother of her knees into her face!}Terri Morasco: KISS GOODNIGHT!
Vasco Dias: The cover…
{Alexis hooks the leg…
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!!!
The bell rings.}Alison Valance: Here is your winner...ALEXIS...CAFFREEEEEY!
{“Cult of Love” plays over the speakers as the referee raises Alexis’ hand.}Terri Morasco: She fought through the emotion to get this win.
{Alexis drops to her knees, looking up at the ceiling before blowing a kiss upward. She rolls out of the ring and heads to the back as the scene fades to the backstage area.}----------------------------------------------------------
SEGMENT
”If God Wills It…”
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{We join Andrew Jacobsen in the back, standing in the interview area. He stares down the camera with quiet intensity, and when he speaks, his voice is deadly serious.}Andrew Jacobsen: Last week, Angel Blake decided that he hadn't seen enough of me. He decided to challenge me, claiming that good doesn't always win.
{Andrew shakes his head, letting out a humorless chuckle, and looks back up into the camera.}Andrew Jacobsen: I'm ready for you, Angel. Whenever, wherever. I won't run from you. But I won't bow to you either.
{He reaches down, picking up the Imperial Championship belt, and slings it across his shoulder, never breaking eye contact with the camera.}Andrew Jacobsen: You're a legend. You're a Hall of Famer. But you're not the first one of those who calls himself a God I've faced down...and just like Spike, I'm more than happy to show you the strength of men. See you real soon, Angel.
{Andrew stares down the camera again as we fade to commercial.}----------------------------------------------------------
SINGLES MATCH
Andrew Jacobsen vs Pax Stormcrow
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{The lights in the arena dim, and there is the sound of a powerup collected in an old video game system. A beat is laid out, filling the arena with the sounds of a Midi file. The lights pulse in time with the music. As they flash as the beat trembles, an explosion of sparks rocks the entrance stage. Pax runs out, shouting at the crowd to hype them up as the chanting on Suplex by A Tribe Called Red kicks in. Witherspoon walks out shortly afterwards. The big manager wears a charcoal gray suit. He glares angrily at the crowd, before following after his client.}
Alison Valance: The following non-title contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, being accompanied by Witherspoon, from Aitkin, Minnesota, weighing in at 249 pounds, Pax Stormcrow!
Terri Morasco: This matchup has been called a technical purist’s dream, and I don’t disagree. Two of the very best grapplers in IWF are locking up tonight, and for Pax Stormcrow, it’s a chance to prove himself in the biggest way.
Vasco Dias: He’s got a monumental challenge ahead of himself, but if there’s one man that can rise to the occasion like this, it’s the Olympic hopeful himself. This man has some of the best pure grappling technique I’ve ever seen. I’ve been looking forward to this one ever since it was announced.
{He jumps in place at the entrance ramp, before making his way down to the arena. He slaps hands with fans, especially taking the time to pay attention to a kid or two on the way down to the ring. Witherspoon, ignores the crowd. He slides under the ropes and rolls to his feet, circling the ring as he shouts to the crowd with a giant smile on his face, while Spoon paces at ringside in his corner} Alison Valance: And his opponent…
{The opening riff of "Unbreakable" plays, sending the crowd into a frenzy, and as the drums kick in Andrew Jacobsen comes striding out onto the ramp, Danielle Chase a step behind him. He takes a few steps forward, looking to either side with a wide grin on his face. Andrew looks dead ahead at the ring, cracking his neck, and throws his arms out and head back as a burst of red and green pyro goes off to either side of him.} Alison Valance: Being accompanied by Danielle Chase, from Minneapolis, Minnesota, weighing in at 235 pounds, he is the IWF Imperial Champion, Andrew Jacobsen!
Terri Morasco: We heard from Andrew earlier in the night responding to God’s challenge, and he doesn’t seem to have been rattled by the threat.
Vasco Dias: Even if he was, he can’t let it show. Wrestlers see weakness like that and they pounce on it like piranha. The champion has to keep a cool head going into this match, and it looks like he’s done exactly that.
{Andrew and Danielle walk down the ramp, Andrew high-fiving fans as he goes, and he pulls himself up onto the apron, looking around at the fans with an infectious grin on his face. He climbs through the second rope and walks to a corner, checking his gloves and talking with Danielle as he waits for the match to start.} Alison Valance: This should be a mat classic for the ages! Here we go!
{The bell rings, and immediately both men step to the center of the ring, Pax extending his hand for a handshake. Andrew accepts it, nodding, and they briefly exchange words, pumping the handshake before breaking and circling again. The two Minnesotans shoot in to lock up, and Pax quickly snares a standing wristlock. Andrew struggles against the hold for a moment before stepping under and twisting out into a wristlock of his own! Pax has it scouted, though, and yanks his arm, causing Andrew to stumble in and allowing Pax to snare a side headlock.}Vasco Dias: Quick start here, and smart of Pax to focus on the neck of Andrew Jacobsen. Andrew has a history of neck injuries, and wearing that down gives him an opening to strike with that vast suplex arsenal of his.
Terri Morasco: I…couldn’t have said it better myself. Well called, Vasco.
Vasco Dias: I have my moments.
{He wrenches on the hold as Andrew struggles, quickly snapping the Imperial Champion over with a side headlock takeover. Andrew kicks against the hold once, twice, before kicking his leg up and swinging it under Pax’s chin to convert into a headscissors. Almost as soon as Andrew has his legs locked, though, Pax pushes up on them, kipping out of the hold and leaping to his feet. Andrew scrambles to his feet as well, and the two men stare each other down, Pax smiling and clapping before beckoning Andrew in again.}Terri Morasco: Pax had a counter for each of Andrew’s counters there, and he looks like he’s enjoying himself!
Vasco Dias: He’s getting to go toe-to-toe with the man many called the best grappler in IWF, and he’s more than holding his own. As a rookie, I’d be excited too.
{The two men shoot in for a lock-up again, and this time Pax swiftly takes Andrew’s back, lifting him up and slamming him to the canvas with a takedown. Pax spins to a front facelock position, trying to cinch in the hold. Andrew struggles against the grip, and Pax swiftly gator rolls him into the center of the ring, wrenching on Andrew’s neck with his arms. Andrew struggles to get his knees underneath himself, trying to loosen Pax’s grip, and Pax rolls again, twisting Andrew’s body around as he spins. Unfortunately for Pax, this leaves Andrew close enough to the ropes that he can get a foot on them, which he quickly does. Pax breaks immediately upon realizing this, nodding and taking a few steps back as Andrew gets to his feet, their managers shouting orders and encouragement, respectively.}Terri Morasco: We haven’t seen someone outgrapple Andrew like this in a long, long time. This is shocking.
Vasco Dias: Pax has something that very few men in the world have: Olympic-level wrestling skills and the size advantage on the Imperial Champion. Some have one, some have the other, few have both. Andrew’s never wrestled an opponent with Pax’s toolbox, and he’s going to need to adapt fast if he wants to survive.
{The two men shoot in for a lock-up again, and this time Andrew surprises the younger man with a quick arm drag, sending Pax over. Pax bounces to his feet, charging in again, and Andrew snags a second deep arm drag, something lighting in his eyes. He hits the ropes, coming off with a huge low dropkick to Pax’s knee as he comes back up again. Pax drops to a knee, and Andrew rebounds to his feet, rolling over Pax and quickly dragging him over into a crucifix! The referee can’t even get down to count before Pax kicks out!}Terri Morasco: Not giving him a moment’s chance to hold him down, Pax Stormcrow with the emphatic kickout!
Vasco Dias: Even a second on the mat can spell death in a freestyle match. He’s got great shoulder awareness.
{The two men leap up again, and Andrew heads a charging Pax into the ropes, catching him on the rebound with a beautiful high dropkick that snares Pax on the chin! Andrew wastes no time, heading to the corner and boosting himself up to the second rope before leaping off with a quick elbow drop…THAT PAX BLOCKS! PAX CATCHES THE ARM AND QUICKLY CONVERTS IT INTO A CROSS ARMBREAKER ATTEMPT! Andrew flails against the hold, quickly locking his hands to block the hold. Pax wrenches against Andrew’s grip, and Andrew manages to get his feet under himself, stacking Pax’s shoulders up on the mat!
ONE! Pax immediately releases the hold, kicking out, and Andrew cracks his neck, staring down Pax as he begins to circle again.}Terri Morasco: Amazing wherewithal from Pax to block that elbow drop, and is that a sign of frustration I’m starting to see on the champion’s face?
Vasco Dias: Maybe Pax’s words earlier this week about Andrew sitting on his laurels struck a nerve?
{Indeed, as Pax stands, Andrew is visibly struggling with his temper, forcing himself to breathe. As Pax stands, Andrew laces into him with an uncharacteristic European uppercut! Pax stumbles back, and Andrew takes the opening, stepping into a discus chop that rocks the younger man. Andrew delivers a forearm that sends Pax stumbling into the ropes, and Andrew presses the advantage, catching him on the rebound with another European uppercut. Andrew grabs the dazed Pax’s arm, whipping him off the ropes. Pax manages to reverse the whip, however, and sends Andrew hurtling into the ropes, catching him on the rebound with a beautiful powerslam! Pax covers!
ONE! TW—KICKOUT! Pax nods, a little surprise crossing his face, and quickly transitions into another side headlock, cranking on the hold.}Terri Morasco: Well, if that didn’t put the truth to your words, Vasco! Andrew looked like he was really fighting his emotions there, and he literally had Pax on the ropes before that gorgeous powerslam.
Vasco Dias: The truth is what hurts the most, Terri. How many times has Jacobsen been absent from the Sacrifice after a pay-per-view? He’s being a slacker, and if he keeps it up it’s going to damage his reputation.
{Andrew spins in the hold, managing to get his arms around Pax’s waist, and starts to rise to his feet. Pax quickly switches to a front facelock, and as Andrew reaches his feet, he pops his hips and launches Pax with the BOREALIS! NO! Pax flips through and lands on his feet behind Andrew! Andrew’s startled, and Pax quickly seizes the opportunity to snare a rear waistlock, launching Andrew overhead with a HUGE German suplex! Pax bridges!
ONE! TWO! THR—KICKOUT! Andrew clutches his neck, grimacing, as Witherspoon accosts the referee about his cadence.}Terri Morasco: What a close call! That German suplex was practically supersonic!
Vasco Dias: I think I can still see an imprint of Andrew’s shoulders in the mat! That was one hell of a suplex!
{Andrew stumbles up to his feet, and Pax quickly darts in, hammerlocking his arm and looking for the PEACE OUT! But Andrew fires a knee up into Pax’s gut, stumbling him! A second! A third! Andrew shoves Pax off, clutching his neck, and backs up towards the ropes. Pax regains his footing, shaking his head, and charges, but Andrew quickly drops down, low-bridging Pax out to the floor! Andrew uses the ropes to slingshot himself back to his feet, looking around at the crowd, and runs to the ropes, hitting the far set before charging and launching himself over the ropes with a gorgeous no-hands tope con hilo onto Pax! The two men collapse in a heap on the outside as the crowd roars!}Terri Morasco: AND NORTH STAR AIRLINES HAS TAKEN OFF IN ARENA MEXICO! What a beautiful dive from Andrew Jacobsen!
Vasco Dias: Andrew’s winding back the clock here with that move, and it shows you how far he’s willing to go to pick up the win. I say get back in the ring and let the referee’s count do the work for you.
{As if pointedly ignoring Vasco’s instructions, Andrew forces himself to his feet, hauling Pax up by his singlet and rolling him back into the ring. Andrew pulls himself up onto the apron, grimacing for a second, and slingshots in with a hilo across Pax’s midsection! He rolls to his feet, holding his neck again and taking a deep breath, and measures Pax as he rises, snaring his own rear waistlock and hauling Pax over with a huge German of his own! Andrew keeps his hands clasped, rolling through, and hauls him over for a second! Andrew grits his teeth, dragging Pax back up one more time, and pops him over with a third massive high-angle German suplex to complete the HAT TRICK! Andrew bridges!
ONE! TWO! NO! PAX NECK BRIDGES OUT OF THE PIN! Andrew holds onto the waistlock for a second more before relinquishing it, spinning to his knee and asking the ref why he broke the count. As the ref explains, Andrew nods wearily, cracking his knuckles and stumbling back to the corner.}Terri Morasco: What amazing resiliency from Pax Stormcrow! The awareness to bridge out of that pin isn’t something I would expect from many, much less someone who’d just taken three rolling German suplexes from the Imperial Champion.
Vasco Dias: Those neck bridges are a crucial part of many wrestlers’ workouts, and Pax just showed the world why.
{Andrew steps out onto the apron, wearily climbing the top rope as Pax forces himself to his feet. Andrew takes a deep breath, measuring Pax as he rises, and leaps off the top with a huge diving crossbody! NO! Pax rolls through, hauling Andrew along, and pushes back to his feet, still holding Andrew across his chest! He shifts his grip, spinning on his heel, and flings Andrew overhead with a MASSIVE exploder suplex! Andrew hits hard on the back of his neck, rolling forward and back to his feet where he collapses chest-first against the top turnbuckle, panting heavily as Pax gets to his feet.}Terri Morasco: WHAT A SUPLEX! Andrew just got hurled fifteen feet across the ring!
Vasco Dias: And that landing! Andrew didn’t stand up there, folks, he rebounded!
{Andrew’s got a somewhat-glassy look in his eyes, and Pax quickly approaches, hoping to put the match to rest. As he goes to grapple Andrew, however, Andrew lashes out with a back elbow on instinct, clipping Pax in the temple. Pax stumbles back, and Andrew forces himself to turn around to face his opponent. Pax moves in again, and Andrew gets his boots up, planting them in Pax’s chest and shoving him off. Pax back-rolls through the momentum, but it’s given Andrew enough space to lash out with the LIGHTS OUT!
NO! PAX CATCHES THE SUPERKICK AND TWISTS ANDREW INTO THE ANKLE LOCK! Andrew writhes and thrashes against the hold, but Pax’s grip is ironclad!}Terri Morasco: ANKLE LOCK! ANKLE LOCK IS IN! Andrew’s got to be in AGONY right now!
Vasco Dias: Pax needs to drop down and grapevine that ankle, increase the torque on it! He could have the match won right now!
{Andrew hops on one foot, trying to reach out for the ropes. Pax keeps the lock applied, though, and Andrew keeps finding himself an inch short, half an inch short! Andrew twists his body one more time, turning to look back at Pax, and leaps with his good foot, using the rotational momentum of the hold to twist himself into, effectively, an aided enzuigiri on Pax! Pax releases the hold, dropping to his knees, and Andrew lands hard on his own knees, letting out a cry of pain as he does so. Andrew grips the ropes, struggling to make his feet as Pax shakes the cobwebs out.}Terri Morasco: That was about the only recourse Andrew had to break that hold there, but God did he pay for it.
Vasco Dias: Both of these men are laying it all out here in an attempt to win, but something has to give in one of them, and I don’t want to be the one who has to look themselves in the mirror after losing this one.
{As Andrew hauls himself to his feet, he grits his teeth, nodding to Pax. He draws back, grimacing, and looks to be ready to attempt another move when the lights suddenly go out!}Terri Morasco: What the hell just happened?!
Vasco Dias: I can’t see! I can’t see! Help! I’ve gone blind!
{The lights come back up, and when they do, the crowd roars, as ANGEL HIMSELF IS STANDING IN THE RING! He smirks evilly, and Andrew barely has time to register what’s happened before he’s caught flush on the jaw with a GENOCIDE KICK! The referee quickly calls for the bell as Angel stands over Andrew’s prone form, laughing wickedly.}Alison Valance: Here is your winner by disqualification, Andrew Jacobsen!
Terri Morasco: What the hell?! What is Angel Blake doing here?!
Vasco Dias: Punishing the unfaithful, Terri! Jacobsen opened his mouth, and he paid for it with God’s wrath!
{Angel continues to laugh, but he’s quickly grabbed from behind and spun around by an angry Pax Stormcrow, who’s back up on his feet, fatigue seemingly gone. Pax shouts at Angel, pointing at Andrew’s still-motionless form, and Angel just smirks, putting his hands up and backing away from the young man from Aitkin.}Terri Morasco: Angel seems to want no part of Pax there. I wonder why that is?
Vasco Dias: Pax hasn’t transgressed against His word yet. That’s why he’s being spared. You should know that.
{Angel backs to the ropes, dropping down and rolling out of the ring. He turns to walk up the ramp as Pax hauls Andrew to his feet, still shaking out the cobwebs. Andrew looks over at Pax, and the two exchange brief words before Andrew forces himself to his feet. He reaches over, taking Pax’s hand, and raises it, pointing to the young man as the Mexico City crowd erupts with applause.}Terri Morasco: What a display of sportsmanship and respect from Andrew Jacobsen. I think we witnessed a star-making performance in there from Pax Stormcrow tonight.
Vasco Dias: God, this sportsmanship nonsense makes me sick. And I’m sure Witherspoon agrees with me!
{Indeed, ‘Spoon seems to be facepalming on the outside. Andrew lets Pax’s wrist go, and he collapses to the mat, rolling outside and leaning against the apron, where Danielle meets him. “Unbreakable” plays over the PA as Andrew forces himself to the back, eyes ablaze with fury.}Terri Morasco: This is only going to get nastier between these two, and I shudder to think what form that might take.
Vasco Dias: It’ll be brutal, it’ll be bloody, it’ll be Biblical. I can’t wait.
----------------------------------------------------------
IWF SHIELDMAIDEN CHAMPIONSHIP
Title vs Career
Rayne vs Astrid Hall (C)
----------------------------------------------------------
Alison Valance: The following contest is scheduled for one fall…
Crowd: ¡UNO CAÍDA!
Alison Valance: …and is for the IWF Shieldmaiden Championship!
Vasco Dias: And finally it has come to this – Title Vs. Career, Valkyrie Vs. Boss Bitch… this is going to be one for the record books. If Astrid Hall has any interest in the future of this company, she should roll over and surrender… an IWF without Rayne is too tragic to consider!
Terri Morasco: Neither of these women are willing to accept that, Vasco. Both Astrid and Rayne have made it very clear that they both want everything from themselves and their opponent. Nobody will be holding back in this match, not by a long shot.
{Blood by In this Moment roars throughout the arena as the crowd cheers. Rayne storms out from the back and through the curtain and stops on the center of the stage soaking in the cheers. Rayne looks around with a sly smirk before marching her way down to the ring. Rayne rolls right in under the bottom rope and jumps right to her feet before heading to the corner of the ring and throwing her arms up yelling out "The Boss Bitch is Here!"}Alison Valance: Introducing first, the Challenger! From San Diego, California, weighing in at 155 pounds… The Boss Bitch, RAYNE!
Terri Morasco: Rayne’s 0 for 2 in singles matches against Astrid Hall. What do you think she has to do tonight in order to beat the odds that history has stacked against her?
Vasco Dias: Exactly what she’s done, Terri – give herself something even more important to fight for than a belt. I’ve seen a few matches before where a career has been on the line, and time and again its inspired people to fight harder than they ever have before. I think Rayne will pull out a fight we haven’t seen from her… well, ever!
Alison Valance: And her opponent…
{The arena is filled with blue and green light as Immigrant Song begins to play, evoking colors of the sea or the forest. As the music intensifies, Lights shine down to reveal Astrid entering through the crowd, huge smile on her face as she descends towards the ring, carrying a viking-style shield as she approaches. She interacts with the crowd, laughing with them and allowing some of them to take selfies with her, giving high-fives and fist bumps all the way down. Her manager, Emma Danielson, walks behind her, smiling and interacting with the crowd as well, though not in as show-stealing a way. Before leaving the crowd, Astrid hands the shield to a young girl declaring “Anyone can be a hero - welcome to the Shield Wall, Sister!”. She leaps into the ring, pumped up and beaming after one last fist bump with Emma, jumping onto the ropes with a triumphant fist in the air taking in the crowd’s cheers before eventually settling into her corner, still brimming with energy.}Alison Valance: From Trondheim, Norway and weighing in at 185 pounds – she is the IWF Shieldmaiden… The Valkyrie, ASTRID HALL!!
Vasco Dias: The new Shieldmaiden has been on a seemingly unstoppable warpath since Diamonds Are Forever, and she doesn’t look like she’s wearing down one bit.
Terri Morasco: Which is honestly impressive in its own right, Vasco, given the match she was in a week ago. She’s been proving with every step that she intends to keep her promise of making 2018 her year – I think the only way that Rayne is going to be able to win tonight is if she becomes an Immovable Object. But can that put an end to the momentum of a seemingly unstoppable force?
Vasco Dias: If anyone can do it, it’s the Boss Bitch. Either way, this one is going to be a seriously legendary match.
DING!
{Both women approach one another in the center of the ring, look around at the cheering crowds. They smile at one another, nod, and shake hands before breaking away… or at least they would if Rayne didn’t hold onto Astrid’s grip. Rayne’s smirk widens as she yanks Astrid back towards her, whipping her leg around for a heel trip. Astrid is caught off guard and the two women fall to the ground, Rayne keeping a hold of Astrid’s wrist and pulling her into a cross armbreaker.}Vasco Dias: Rayne once again bringing her experience and ground expertise to the forefront of her game!
{Astrid quickly reacts, rolling onto her side and clapping her hands together to prevent Rayne from fully locking in the grip. The two of them struggle on the mat for a few moments as Rayne tries to break Astrid’s clasps, but Astrid is able to hold on before she shifts her weight to a kneeling position. Then she stands, lifting Rayne with her before dropping the Boss Bitch to the mat with a powerbomb. Astrid immediately goes for the cover!
ONE!
Rayne breaks the pin with authority, as Astrid rolls away with a grin. The two of them look at one another, mutual respect clear in their expressions before the shrug and begin circling one another.}Terri Morasco: An early pin attempt by Astrid!
Vasco Dias: What is she thinking? How do you expect to end a match with a pin this quickly? The fact that she is trying to pin her opponent without using any of her signiature moves is disgraceful.
{The two women don’t circle one another for long, locking up briefly before Rayne twists around and cinches in a rear waistlock. She lifts as if she’s trying to bring Astrid down for a takedown, but Astrid throws an elbow back for the block. Astrid then throws a second elbow back to try to break the lock, then going in for a third. However, Rayne ducks under the third elbow, shifting her grip and hauling Astrid up for a thunderous belly-to-back suplex. Rayne bridges and goes for the pin!
ONE!
Astrid slams a shoulder up, actually laughing. Rayne joins in as well as she backs away, shrugging exaggeratedly as she mouths “Hey, I had to try, right?”}Terri Morasco: You were saying, Vasco?
{Astrid cracks her neck with a smirk before charging again, and Rayne once again looks to go low to enter her advantageous lockup position. This time, however, Astrid sees the move coming and compensates in response, raising her leg and planting it into Rayne’s face with a THUNDEROUS running big boot! Astrid lets her momentum carry her to the ropes, rebounding off and charging into Rayne as she rises to her feet, planting her with a Superman Punch. Rayne goes to the ground again, and Astrid goes to cover!
ONE!
TW-
Rayne kicks out of the pin, immediately twisting around Astrid and tearing her into another painful looking armbar, capitalizing on Astrid’s surprise at her fierce recovery! Astrid roars with determination as she struggles to fight her way out of the lock, letting out one last huge lash of anger and shoving Rayne away. Astrid backs up, breathing heavily and shaking her head to refocus.}Terri Morasco: Rayne really seems to have Astrid’s number in this one! She’s definitely learned from their previous encounters.
Vasco Dias: She makes an easy target, and experience is in Rayne’s favor.
{Astrid begins to nod with anticipation, beckoning Rayne to come at her again. Boss Bitch is only too happy to oblige, charging at the Valkyrie once again. Astrid brings her in, this time trying to counter the charge by going for an abdominal grapple, possibly for a suplex… but Rayne sees it coming and ducks around, hopping up onto the ropes for a second rope double axe handle. Astrid reels from the blow but does not go down, recovering quickly and slamming into Rayne with a Shield Bash, knocking her to the ground. Not finished, she lifts Rayne up and props her legs on the ropes, holding Rayne’s head in her arm…}Vasco Dias: Oh, this is going to hurt.
{Astrid drops Rayne to the ground with a brutal Wrath of Nidhogg, laying Rayne out flat on the ground. Astrid again goes for the cover…!
ONE!
TWO!
THR-!
Unable to fully kick out in time, Rayne does manage to hook a leg on the ropes nearby! The ref spots the save and calls off the pin as Astrid steps back, smiling and clapping. “Good!” She cries. “Good, keep fighting back! We haven’t had enough yet!”}Terri Morasco: One thing’s for sure, Astrid’s having fun out there.
Vasco Dias: She always does. It’s still unsettling.
{Rayne heavily hauls herself to her feet, breathing hard as she stares Astrid down, matching the smile. This time she’s the one beckoning Astrid forward, and the Valkyrie charges with a laugh. She begins going for what looks to be the beginning of the Berserker’s Fury, but Rayne slips out of the way, ducking under the strike and spinning around… but Astrid was ready for it, whirling around and scooping Rayne up for the Mjolnir! Rayne reacts quickly with a series of quick strikes to Astrid’s arms, weakening her hold and letting her slip out from behind, taking Astrid to the ground with a HUGE chop block to the back of the Valkyrie’s knee! Astrid falls to her knees, in pain from the blow, but Rayne doesn’t stop yet. She quickly maneuvers around the Valkyrie so she’s facing her front… and slams into the kneeling Astrid with a SPEAR!! She goes for the cover…
ONE!
TWO!!
THR- NO! Astrid barely manages to kick out!!}Terri Morasco: This match was almost over there! The resilience of the Shieldmaiden is a sight to behold!
{Astrid hauls herself to her feet, breathing heavily but still grinning through the pain. Rayne tries to keep her momentum going from the offense, launching into another charge with what looks like a running forearm smash, but Astrid has her number and counters with her advantage of reach, grabbing Rayne’s neck and lifting her into the WINTER’S GRIP CHOKESLAM! She moves to go for the cover, but Rayne snaps out with a stiff kick to the same knee that endured the chop block earlier, sending Astrid staggering away. Rayne stands and signals for a second Spear… but as she leaps into the air Astrid catches her and lifts her up once again, getting Rayne in position even as her knee shakes hard from the punishment of the last two strikes and the added weight…!}Vasco Dias: Here it comes…
{Astrid roars with rage as she brings Rayne down for the MJOLNIR! She goes for the cover!!
ONE!
TWO!!
THRE – The crowd EXPLODES as Rayne manages to slam a shoulder up as the ref’s hands are mere inches from the mat!}Vasco Dias: SHE DID IT! SHE DID IT! RAYNE IS THE FIRST WOMAN TO KICK OUT OF THE MJOLNIR!
Terri Morasco: Targeting the knee was a veteren’s call. Without the strength in her knees Astrid wasn’t able to bring as much to that finisher as she usually could, which Rayne knew after experiencing before. She knew that Astrid would go for it, and set up the way to make sure she could survive it. Genius move.
{Astrid is in shock as she lies on the ground clutching her knee as Rayne rolls away, pulling herself up by the ropes as she hypes herself up, drawing energy from the screaming crowd. She pulls Astrid up by the head, breathing heavily… and draws on every last ounce of strength she has left, desperation and adrenaline fueling her arms as she wrenches once… twice… and then gets ASTRID UP IN THE AIR! With one last cry of determination, she throws every last ounce of strength into one final blow… and lands the BITCH-BREAKER!}Terri Morasco: No way! To lift a woman like Astrid like that…!
Vasco Dias: That’s the power you can get when you’re career’s on the line, Terri! It’s all over!
{Rayne goes for the cover!
ONE!
TWO!!
THREE!!!}Alison Valance: Here is your winner, and NEW IWF SHIELDMAIDEN…. RAYNE!!!!
{Both women are laying on the mat together, both of them utterly spent as Blood by In This Moment plays triumphantly over the speakers.}Terri Morasco: A momentous victory for Rayne, but both of these women have a lot to be proud of after this match!
Vasco Dias: No ending this era, Terri! Rayne just proved that she’s still got what it takes to stand at the top of this industry, and she’s not going anywhere!
{Both women slowly get to their feet, looking at one another with mixed emotions. Astrid takes the Shieldmaiden belt from the ref and personally hands it back to Rayne, who beams at the gesture. The new Shieldmaiden reaches out her hand, mirroring the beginning of the match, and Astrid accepts. However, also mirroring the beginning of the match, Astrid refuses to let go after they shake hands. For a moment Rayne looks concerned… before Astrid pulls her in for a warm and joyous embrace.}Terri Morasco: It looks like the bad blood between these two women is at its end!
{We close on the two women hugging one another as the crowd cheers around them.} 
Well howdy there pardner.