Recorded live Thurseday nights
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HOUR ONE
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{ The show opener for Friday Night Sacrifice plays to the theme of Born for One Thing by Gojira showing clips of all the current champions as well as some of the biggest stars in IWF currently. After the open plays we head to the studio where Laura Howlett stands with Keybo Shabaz. }
Laura Howlett: Welcome to Friday Sacrifice! I'm your host, the talented Ms. Howlett! And besides me is the man they based the movie Flubber on! Keybo Shabaz!
Keybo Shabaz: You know that's based on a book that's like almost a hundred years old?
Laura Howlett: You know you're a fat sack of crap who's only on this show because he's friends with people in high places, right?
Keybo Shabaz: Well that was a low blow.
Laura Howlett: The only kind of blow you have ever or will ever get.
Keybo Shabaz: Well... We've got a great night of action ahead of us! Several big matches, Tara looking to respond to Shelly, the civil war with the Church of Crosse continues and some tag team action!
Laura Howlett: So let's not waste anymore time with Keybo trying to sound important and head to our first match! Kate Steele looks to get two wins back to back for the first time in the last decade when she takes on Zelda Simpson!
Keybo Shabaz: Let's head to the ring!
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SINGLES MATCH
Kate Steele vs Zelda Simpson
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{ Diamond and the Gem Stones begins to blare all across the sound system and as it does we are able to see the likes of the Gem Stones playing on a tron. Ruby, Emerald, and Sapphire are all playing various instruments as we are able to see Diamond Steele emerging from the curtain with a microphone in her hand. She sings as loudly as she can to the sound of roaring cheers. Kate smirks as she just sings loudly which results in even more cheers. Diamond finally makes it to the ring and she quickly runs up the ring steps as she grabs the turnbuckle as hard as she can. She immediately leap frogs over the ropes and bounces about before she points at the crowd who cheers louder than before. She waves at them off as she throws the microphone to the side. She smirks as she opens up a pocket mirror and takes a moment to admire how beautiful her hair is as she waits for the match to begin. }
Terri Morasco: Kate really didnât have much to say going into this match...
Vasco Dias: Probably phoned it in. Then again, everyone knows sheâs just the companyâs resident pinata...
Terri Morasco: Oh, leave her be!
{ The Final Fantasy X version of "The Prelude" kicks in as Zelda Simpson strolls into the arena, playing Pokemon GO on her iPhone 12 -- much to the crowd's laughter. Once she approaches the ring, an attendant calmly reminds her that it's time to wrestle...so she gently hands him the gadget and prepares to wait for her opposition. }
Terri Morasco: Speaking of nutballsâŠ
Vasco Dias: Aww, câmon man! Zelda owes twenty-five grand to a shark! Thatâs why sheâs here.
Terri Morasco: I didnât know Jaws took o human form.
Vasco Dias: A loan shark, Terri. Ya donât pay up in full, they start collecting parts of your anatomy to use as trophies!
Terri Morasco: ...ickâŠ
[DING!]
{ This was quite a fun little match, lasting just under seven minutes. Both Kate and Zelda showcased their biggest strengths throughout, with neither woman gaining an advantage. Zelda eventually wound up catching Kate off-guard with her trademark Bad Brerath poison mist, and although she winds up blinded, Steele kicked out at two-and-three-quarters despite the rather unfair maneuver. Eventually, Kate plastered Zelda to the deck with her patented DIAMOND CUTTER signature...only for Zelda to kick out at the last second! Somehow, Zelda is able to get the three-count when she rolled up Kate, holding onto the bottom rope for leverage -- an act not seen by Blue Shoes! }
Laura Howlett: Well so much for two wins in a row...
Keybo Shabaz: You're not going to mention how Zelda clearly cheated?
Laura Howlett: Only that she probably didn't need to. A strong breeze could put Kate down for a three count.
Keybo Shabaz: You should be an inspirational speaker, you're really good at it.
Laura Howlett: Thank you!
Keybo Shabaz: That was sarcasm.
Laura Howlett: I'm taking the compliment anyway! Next up we are going to hear from one of the people who signed up for the Olympians Mixed Tag Team Tournament! Take it away!
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SEGMENT
Segment 1
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TAG TEAM MATCH
Violent Tendencies vs "The Local Legends" Dan and Danny Local
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{ Sacrifice returns from a paid advertisement and the 'Local Legends', Dan and Danny Local are already in the ring awaiting the arrival of Violent Tendencies. Alison Valance gives them a proper introduction, and they draw a decent pop in their hometown from a large group of family and friends in attendance. "Shitlist" by L7 plays Violent Tendencies out next to a chorus of boos. The Main Man Chris Diamond plays into the serenade of jeers from the Cincinnati faithful whilst Portia and Terrella share an over-the-top make-out session atop the stage to his left. }
{ The tag champs hand the belts to Portia, who places one over each of her shoulders. Diamond and Terrella then rush the ring, taking the right straight to the Local Legends. Diamond quickly rocks Dan with some hard right hands, forcing him back into the corner. Terrella blasts through Danny with a spear, dropping him where he stands as Portia reaches the bottom of the ramp. Diamond brings Dan out of the corner, firmly in control. }
{ The Main Man flashes his trademark smirk as Terrella heaves Danny over the top rope and to the floor, where he crashes into the barricade. Diamond drills Dan into the canvas with his patented 'Hang'em High' style chokeslam. Diamond shakes his head, almost as if to say: "Is that all you got?" to Dan. Meanwhile, on the outside, Terrella hoists Danny up and rams him spine first into the steel ring post, then bodyslams him on the floor. }
{ Chris drags Dan up by his hair, talking trash to him the entire time. The Main Man snatches Dan up on his shoulders quickly and aggressively, then drops him with his 'Sudden Impact' finisher! Diamond slides back on his butt into a very nonchalant cover, laying just his shoulders over Danny's lifeless body as the official slides into position. The official's hands goes down... One!... Two!!... Three!!! Diamond leans forward, brushing his hands as Violent Tendencies music hits. }
Vasco Dias: Violent Tendencies made short work of the Local Heroes here. Dan and Danny's dreams disappeared faster than the Bengals' playoff hopes.
Terri Morasco: You're doing yourself no favors with the live crowd here tonight, Vasco.
Vasco Dias: It's fine. I'll do what I always do and force some intern to put on my jacket, cover their head and walk out the front while I slip quietly out the back. Mike was so good at that, and you'd be surprised how fast he could run. This one time in Philadelphia...
Terri Morasco: Wait, Philadelphia?! That's why that poor guy quit the week after! He was a sweet kid, too.
Vasco Dias: Mike was a quitter, but you know who isn't?... Violent Tendencies! We're about to get some bonus action!
{ Vasco alludes to the fact that Terrella has pulled Danny's body up off the floor, and drives him back first into the edge of the apron. Terrella starts hammering away on Danny with viscous left hands, drawing a laugh out of Diamond. The Main Man gets up and begins to put the boots to Dan as the music fades. Portia makes her way around the ring and snatches the microphone out of Alison Valance's hand, staring her down with a frosty glare afterward. }
Portia: So this is Cincinnati's finest? Can't say I'm surprised, this city has to be the world's largest dump. It's only fitting it'd produce two local losers like this. Violent Tendencies came here for a tune up ahead of their match against Team Diversity Hire, and a tune up they will get... even if they just have to sling garbage like this around for about ten minutes to stay sharp.
{ Terrella grabs a steel chair and drives it into Danny's gut. Danny doubles over, barely able to stand, and Terrella brings the chair down hard across his back repeatedly until Danny is left laying in a heap on the floor. Diamond grabs his bat and strikes Dan underneath the jaw with the butt end of the barrel, dropping him where he half-stood. Portia makes her way into the ring, looking down at Danny as she makes her way center. }
Portia: That probably hurt. But let's talk Team Diversity Hire, shall we? I warned you the first time not to step in the ring with Violent Tendencies, but you wanted the match. I understand it because you hadn't experienced this. Everyone looks at an undefeated, unstoppable machine like this and believes they can be the ones to grind it to a stop. These guys right here probably thought the exact same thing.
{ Terrella tosses Danny in the ring beneath the bottom rope. Terrella reaches underneath the ring, and he slides a table out, which he then shoves into the squared circle. The Main Man yanks Dan up and punishes him with the Gran Torino. Portia remains in the center of the ring, casually talking. }
Portia: But you tried, and you couldn't. You felt the pain, Nick. You spent time sitting at home rehabbing that knee. Be honest with yourself and admit to yourself that you were lucky it wasn't worse. Now you want to do this again?
{ Diamond sets up the table near the corner. Terrella looks at Dan, then at Danny, undecided as to which one to take hold of. He looks at Portia, and can be seen mouthing the words: "which one?" Portia laughs. }
Portia: Oh, I didn't realize I'd be playing the eventual role of Justine tonight. If I'm Justine, I'm going to say do the one you think is Nick... I probably love him less, and he's used to rehab.
{ Terrella chuckles, and rips Dan off the mat and hoists him up onto his shoulders. Diamond goes to the top rope as Terrella walks over in front of the table. Diamond launches himself off the top, striking Dan across the throat with his arm as they deliver the Brutalizer to the Local Hero. He crashes backward through the table. Dan lays motionless in the wreckage as the crowd falls almost silent. Portia shrugs. }
Portia (in her best Justine Harris voice): Sorry, uncle Nick.
{ The trio share a laugh for a moment. Their demeanor then shifts into a more serious gear. }
Portia: Obviously these two losers aren't the same caliber of Team Diversity Hire, but the end result will be the same. One of you is going to the hospital when the match comes, and we're going to leave it up to Justine to decide which one. So think hard, little girl, because who knows how much time you have to decide. When the match is made, though, Chris and my man want it to be an ambulance match, so everything is legal, and it's all final. Nick... Nate, if you want to try to give the two baddest men in this sport their receipt... all you have to do is say yes.
{ Portia twirls the microphone with a wicked little grin before dropping it on the canvas with an audible thud. 'Shitlist hits again as Diamond kneels down and lifts Dan's limp head off the canvas by his hair, talking trash to him. Terrella throws his title over his shoulder, patting it for the camera. Terrella offers a hand to Portia, who steps on Danny's back with her heel on her way out of the ring, adding a bit of insult to injury. Diamond grabs his belt, and fakes out hitting Dan with it, but the duo is too beaten down for Dan to even flinch; which seems to almost spoil the fun for the Main Man. He takes his leave from the ring, joining Terrella and Portia as the champions back up the ramp with the gold displayed. }
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SEGMENT
The Kids Are Alright
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{The camera comes on to Dawn Halliwell and Warren Kane sitting at a table in catering.}
Ella Kelley: Warren, Dawn! Hello, Ella Kelley here. I wanted to ask how you two decided to do a team for the mixed tag tournament.
Dawn Halliwell: We're siblings? I've been the one getting Warren back in ring shape to get his world title win. I'm his manager. Motherfucker, me and him? We're gonna rock this fucking thing.
Warren Kane: Dawn. Chill.
Dawn Halliwell: What? I'm just saying. You and me? We're fucking fire.
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TAG TEAM MATCH
The Rising Dragons vs Warren Kane and Dean Harper
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Laura Howlett: In our main event of Hour One we have the Rising Dragons taking on the team of Warren Kane and Dean Harper!
Keybo Shabaz: I wonder if Warren and Dean will make a regular thing of tagging together?
Laura Howlett: Angel help the division if they do. Let's get to the match before Gilmore finds a new way to piss off the entire LGBQT+ community!
{ Mountain by Three Days Grace comes on the speaker and Nick Danger walks out to the entrance ramp wearing Red and White wrestling attire and his leather jacket says Savior. He stands on the entrance ramp hyping the whole crowd to chant his name and starts walking down the ramp while giving fans high fives. He walks up the steel steps and goes through the middle rope to stand near the center of the ring for a moment then takes off his leather jacket and then throws both of them to the crowd then stands at the corner turnbuckle ready for the match to start. }
{ An instrumental with hook version of "Shell Shocked" by Juicy J, featuring Wiz Khalifa and Ty Dolla $ign, begins to play, and a video package begins to play stock footage of waves crashing, followed by bolts of cloud-to-cloud lightning. }
"Knock, knock, you about to get shell shocked
Knock, knock, you about to get shell shocked
Knock, knock, you about to get shell shocked
Knock, knock, you about to get shell shocked..."
{ As jets of water shoot out from all directions, we tsee James Gilmore stepping out onto the stage, posing along to the hip-hop tune, before high-fiving the crowd and walking down to the ring. }
"(All for one when we fight together)
Knock, knock, you about to get shell shocked
(All for one when we ride together)
Knock, knock, you about to get shell shocked
(All for one when we fight together)
Knock, knock, you about to get shell shocked
(This family can bear any weather)
Knock, knock, you about to get shell shocked..."
{ Once inside the ring, the Islander alum points heavenward, taking in the moments as he waits for his opponent. }
{Lights go to black, leaving the arena in dark silence for a few moments before the dark, rhythmic pulses of the beginning of Counting Bodies Like Sheep To The Rhythm Of The War drums by A Perfect Circle begins to surge through the arena.}
Don't fret precious, I'm here
Step away from the window, go back to sleep
Safe from pain and truth and choice and other poison devils
See, they don't give a fuck about ...you like I do
{ Lights flash randomly through the arena, and soon flashes of some of the most savage moments of Dean's career flash in flickering effect on the 'tron. Finally, a single white spotlight shines down in the center of the stage, where Dean is crouching as he shifts side to side along with the music, hoodie and leather jacket open to show a bare chest underneath. He smiles up at the camera, eyes alight with a savage mania before he leaps to his feet, the motion bringing a massive flash as every light in the arena flares. He holds that position for a few moments, fist raised in the air before sprinting down to ringside. He leaps up onto the Apron, vaulting over the top rope and flipping into a roll that carries him to the opposite side of the ring, where he catches himself in the ropes and lounges amongst them almost casually, bobbing his head along with the music.}
I'll be the one to protect you from your enemies and all your demons
I'll be the one to protect you from a will to survive and a voice of reason
I'll be the one to protect you from your enemies and your choices, son
They're one in the same
I must isolate you
Isolate and save you from yourself
{With the help of the ropes, he shrugs off the hoodie and jacket before sliding back into the ring, tossing the removed clothing into the crowd. He takes a slow turn, arms wide as he takes in the reaction from the crowd, before cracking his neck and settling into his corner.}
{The lights go out and the snow steady beat of New Divide by Linkin Park plays and the crowd gives a good cheer for Warren Kane as he emerges from behind the curtains wearing a simple leather jacket, with his hands at his hips and a smile on his face. He then heads towards the ring, stopping to touch hands with members of the crowd before stopping in front of the ring. Closes his eyes, takes a breath before jumping up onto the apron, climbing the turnbuckle on the outside and raising his arms in the air getting a positive reaction from the crowd. The music dies down and the lights return to normal as he drops into the ring.}
Laura Howlett: We've been seeing some cracks in the foundation of the Rising Dragons, a loss here could be the stolen election that breaks the elephants back.
Keybo Shabaz: You just can't resist, can you?
Laura Howlett: It's like a fine New York Cheesecake, I can never say no to mocking James Gilmore.
Keybo Shabaz: Let's head to the match!
{ We kicked things off with Dean and Danger in the ring. Danger and Dean both rushed at each other, ducking the respective clothesline attempts. They both spun on their heels and fired off superkicks and dodged them. Dean then moved in looking for a leaping arm drag takedown but Danger was able to reverse it and went for his own arm drag takedown but Dean managed to get out of the that as well. Both men then came in looking for dropkicks and they finally connected hitting each other. Dean and Danger nipped up to their feet and Dean connected with a sling blade! Dean then hit a forearm smash followed up by a spinning heel kick. Dean fired Nick off into the corner of Warren Kane and hit a body splash in the corner. Warren tagged himself in and hit Nick with a high angle underhook DDT! Warren went for the cover but James broke it up. Warren pulled Nick to his feet and hit a tilt a whirl backbreaker! Warren tried to cover again but James was there to stop it. With the referee on James, Dean saw the chance to come in and catch Nick with a chop block! Warren doesn't look happy about it but he pulls Nick up for the Splosion suplex! Warren makes the cover again but Nick is able to kick out on his own this time. Warren brings Nick over to Dean's corner, Dean tags back in. Dean and Warren hit a double vertical suplex on Danger. Dean covers but it's only two. Dean pulls Nick up and Danger comes back to life with a superkick, followed by an enzugiri followed by a leaping knee strike! Nick dives to his corner and tags in James who launches himself into the ring with the Power Wave on Dean! James covers but Dean is able to kick out at two. James pulls Dean up and hits him with the Shellshocker! James covers again and this time Warren breaks the count up at two. James looks up and let's out a roar as a pulls Dean back to his feet and unloads on Harper with palm strikes. James then hits the ropes and takes Dean down with a huge spear! James makes the cover but Dean is able to kick out at two. Nick is asking to be tagged back in and James pulls Dean up and sends him into Nick's corner with an irish whip! James charges in looking for another spear but Dean moves and James goes flying shoulder first into the ring post! Nick tags himself back in. Dean tags in Warren. Nick comes in fast and hits Warren with a sling blade! Warren gets up and Nicks catches him with a superkick! Danger then lands the Legacy Cutter on Warren Kane! Nick goes for the cover but Warren kicks out. Nick stands and Dean comes off the ropes with Up is Down! Dean pulls Warren up and then grabs Nick. Dean pulls Nick Danger up into Clipped Wings, Warren comes in with the Kidd Kick and then Dean plants Danger! Warren covers Nick while Dean blocks James for the three count and the victory at ten minutes and thirty eight seconds! }
Laura Howlett: Warren Kane and Dean Harper picked up a win over the Rising Dragons in what was a surprisingly close match.
Keybo Shabaz: You coming around on Gilmore?
Laura Howlett: I'll come around to his funeral when his heart finally explodes from yelling at MSNBC on Twitter for the last time.
Keybo Shabaz: Jesus.
Laura Howlett: Well that's it for Hour One of Friday Night Sacrifice! Stay tuned for more action and tune in next week! For Keybo "Gilmore sympathizer #1" Shabaz, I've been Laura Howlett! Good night!
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HOUR TWO
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Summer Thompson: Hi guys, gals, and nonbinary pals! Isn't this exciting? Ella and I are back again for Hour two of Friday night! I can't believe how amazing the show has been so far. And things aren't done yet!
Ella Kelley: Plus all things considered... things look amazing for the tag team division.
Summer Thompson: Oh my god, right?
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SEGMENT
The Church of Crosse has an offer for... Somebody
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{Personal Jesus by Lollipop Lust Kill begins to play as red lights begin to flash slowly before lights come up on the stage. As the music swells, dim light begins to come up on the stage, now shrouded with smoke as two silhouettes fade into view. As the guitar kicks in hard, the lights flash onto the stage revealing the members of the The Church of Crosse. Gregor Winter and Jack Ferriman slowly make their way towards the ring ignoring the reaction of the crowd. When they reach ring side Gregor takes a mic from one of IWFâs production lackeyâs and climbs into the ring as the music fades out.}
Gregor Winter: I want to start by letting all of you know that Brother Lucipher sends his love. He is wanting for nothing in his home, except for a reliable internet connection. He has the best lawyers in the world working for him and soon he will be back at The Cathedral of Crosse spreading the word as only he can.
Next I want to give an update on Brother Jayson, because everyone keeps asking. The truth is that he is in a pretty bad way, and itâs going to be a long time before heâs alright. His leg was so badly broken that heâs already has had two operations and heâs looking at at least two more, so itâs going to be a long time before heâs even going to be able to walk. Honestly we donât know if heâll ever be able to wrestle again, but donât worry he has the blessing of The Father on his side.
Now I want to get down to some new business, and ask Johnny Somebody to come down to the ring.
{I Want To Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me) plays and Johnny Somebody runs out from the back slapping hands with the fans all the way up the aisle. Ignoring his usual running around the ring and shaking the ropes he climbs inside of the ring with concern painted all over his face.}
Gregor Winter: You can relax Johnny I just want to have a little talk with you. Last week in your match with Nick Knight you were given an opportunity to finally win a match. Blue Shoes had his back turned and a Disciple handed you a gift from The Church of Crosse, and he tossed it down and took an ass whipping from Knight. Johnny I get that you are trying to be a good person, and I respect that, but youâve shown us time and again that your good is not good enough. Week after week you come out here and do good, and week after week you lose. The Church of Crosse can help you Johnny, because we want to make you the best you possible.
We can offer you more than just a baseball bat when no one is watching. We can teach you to be the best wrestler that you can possibly be, and if you donât believe me just look at Brother Jack. Look at what Brother Jayson was accomplishing before his accident. They were jobbers just like you, but We can make you more. The Church of Crosse may one day even be able to make you into a champion Johnny.
{Gregor reaches into the back pocket of his jeans and pulls out a black mask.}
All you have to do is take this mask from me and devote yourself to The Father and The True Unholy Son.
{Johnny takes the mask from Winter and looks at it for a moment before dropping it to the canvas.}
Johnny Somebody: I will never--
{Jack Ferriman takes the words out of Somebodyâs mouth with a stiff kick and Winter turns the much smaller man inside out with a stiff lariat. The pair begins to put the boots to Johnny until a roar from the crowd causes them to look up. Seeing all three members of The Brotherhood heading towards the ring armed they quickly make their leave through the crowd.
James and Gabriel help Johnny get to his feet and check on the young man as Nick picks up the microphone.}
Nick Knight: Johnny I know you just got roughed up a little bit by those assholes, but part of what Gregor said is very true. You have the potential to be so much more than a guy losing the first match every night. I have been in the ring with you and I have seen the strengths in your game, but Iâve also seen the weaknesses. Thatâs why I am going to make you an offer, come back to L.A, with me and start working out at the xXx Academy. I will show you how you can improve inside of the ring and be, I hate using this wording, the best version of you possible. What do you say?
{Johnny looks at Nick trying to decide if he is being serious before finally nodding yes. The two men shake hands and Sacrifice goes to commercial for the upcoming Olympians Mixed Tag Team Tournament.}
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SINGLES MATCH
Abraxes vs Alex Blade
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Ella Kelley: I am on the edge of my seat with this match.
Summer Thompson: I'm worried someone is gonna get hurt.
{Cut The Cord by Shinedown comes on and Alex Blade comes out at the crowd entrance wearing grey and red tights and black kick pads boots and wearing a muscle shirt he looks at all the fans. He makes his way down the crowd entrance with a focus look on his face and lets the fans touch him. He climbs over the barricade. He climbs the steel steps and stops for a moment. Then jumps inside the ring he takes off his muscle shirt and throws it to a fan. And get ready for his opponent to enter the ring.}
Ella Kelley: Alex coming in like he's on top of the world.
Summer Thompson: Maybe he feels that way?
{The lights in the arena flicker and die as if there were some kind of power outage. As the light sounds of an acoustic guitar play, the high-pitched laughter of children fills the air. A red spotlight shines on the stage as heavy smoke rolls across the floor. As opening lyrics of Monster (Under my Bed) by Call me Karizma starts to sing Abraxes rises from the center of the stage, his eyes burning out from under his mask as he stares down at the ring.
The rhythm of the song changes from a twisted lullaby do a grinding rock song just as he rises to his full height. Abraxes glares around at the audience before he walks down the ramp, focused on the ring in front of him. He crawls into the ring, exaggerated movements of his hands and legs to appear more like a creepy spider then a man. He rolls to his feet, holding his arms into the air as the lullaby starts anew.}
Ella Kelley: Abraxes is such a creep.
Summer Thompson: He's dangerous.
{The lights go out as soon as the bell ring, there is a terrible noise, when the lights come back on only Abraxes standing, clacking his teeth.}
Ella Kelley: Jesus.
Summer Thompson: I don't think he had anything to do with this.
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SEGMENT
"Bullshit"
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{ The camera cuts backstage, with the footage being shot from an awkward angle. Someone on the Imperial Wrestling Federation's camera crew has caught Tara Fenix leaned against a wall of the Fifth Third Arena, talking on her cellphone, completely unbeknownst to her. }
Tara: "Yes, absolutely! I'll see you tonight after the show."
{ There's a- dare one say, playful- energy in Tara's voice as she speaks surely reserved for what are meant to be private moments. She listens to the voice on the other end, nodding an smiling when she catches a glance of Jessé Marchand and Travis Reinhart approaching, conversing back-and-forth with each other on the walk. }
Tara: "Hey, I don't mean to interrupt you, but one of my students and his friend are coming. Can I call you back later?"
{ Tara nods. }
Tara: First chance I get. I have to go now. Bye.
{ Tara presses a button on her phone with her thumb, ending the call. She stuffs the phone in the waist of her pants, behind her back, and begins to reign in her excitement some as Vendetta come to a stop in their walk directly in front of her. }
Jessé: "Hey, Tara. It's been awhile. I was really hoping we'd cross paths sooner just to say thank you, for everything. I wouldn't be here without your training. The opportunity to compete here is what I've wanted for a long time, even if the politics are challenging."
{ Travis shoves his braids off his face. }
Travis: "My boy, J, always trying to keep the level head. Challenging isn't the word you want. Bullshit, that's s the word you're looking for, J. We should grab some chairs, go down that hall and lay out the tag champs and anyone else that gets in our way. This entire company has done nothing but screw us over since day one, no matter how much we win."
{ Tara nods her head but stops for a moment to process what JessĂ© and Travis are suggesting; she doesnât want to lead them astray. She knew the game of politics all too well. }
Tara: Attacking the tag team champions is going to do nothing for you except get you a suspension, if not even a termination⊠Iâve noticed. The two of you are the most dominant tag team that the IWF has. There is no reason for them to hold you back, but unfortunately⊠they see you as my student. And Roberto Verona is afraid to give me too much power; to give me too much control. But no matter how afraid he is of it, Iâm going to take it. If I must. Let me work something out.
{ Marchand nods, having listened intently. He looks Tara eye-to-eye, still unaware of the prying camera. }
Jessé: "Hey, do you think we could talk more some time? Catch up, maybe. You're the best to ever do this, and we could use some advice on how to navigate the waters here."
{ Tara nods in agreement. }
Tara: "Yes, but not here."
{ She leans in, whispering something to Jessé. }
Tara: "Good?"
{ Marchand nods, and he then looks at Travis, shifting his head to the right as if to indicate that it's time to go. The two men take their leave. Tara hangs back, waiting for them to disappear from view, and then makes her way in the opposite direction. }
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SINGLES MATCH
Rob Diamond vs El Grande Malo
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Ella Kelley: Here is a fun match-up.
Summer Thompson: I wonder how this will go.
{The house lights dim slightly as the words âOLĂâ appear on the screen. The fans begin chanting along with the music as El GrandĂ© 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.}
Ella Kelley: Malo just living his best life, huh?
Summer Thompson: He's having fun.
{ The lights in the arena go dim but they do not go completely out. The crowd waits in anticipation when the opening riff of Bad to the Bone by George Thorogood hits. The entire arena screams out as one as the graphics on the screen show some of the many highlights of the career of Rob Diamond. The lights in the arena start to strobe pink as the second, third, fourth and fifth riffs all hit with pink pyro launching out of the stage and just as the lyrics kick in, Rob Diamond steps out to a huge ovation! The crowd is chanting "ROB! ROB! ROB!" as Diamond throws the X up over his head before heading down the ramp. Rob makes it a point to slap hands with the fans at either side of the lower end of the ramp and then makes his way around the ring, even stopping to grab a picture with a young boy dressed like Dean Harper. Rob finally makes his way into the ring via the ring steps and runs across to the far corner, jumping up and throwing the X up over his head again as a pink pyro X launches on top of the ramp! }
Alison Valance: Introducing, weighing in at two hundred and five pounds, he is the BLOOD SOAKED CINDERELLA OF PRO WRESTLING!!! ROB DIAMOND!!!!
{ After the introduction, Rob spins off the ropes and falls back into one of the corners of the ring, kicking up his legs to rest on the second rope and looks quite relaxed. }
Ella Kelley: Rob looking fine tonight.
Summer Thompson: He's married!
{The match start with Rob Diamond Hip Toss that is ALWAYS FOLLOWED BY a Five Knuckle Shuffle then Fist Full of Democracy Spinning Back Fist a Atomic Drop that is ALWAYS FOLLOWED BY a lunging clothesline followed by Crotch Chop Bronco Buster finished with a Diamond Cutter!}
Alison Valance: And the winner is Rob Diamond!
Ella Kelley: With the five moves of doom!
Summer Thompson: How unexpected!
-------------------------------------
SEGMENT
Tara Fenix responds to Shelly Diamond
-------------------------------------
{ The cameras begin in the arena before the Imperitron lights up and the crowd lets out a loud pop for the woman that is on it⊠She has her back to the camera, but her face is revealed by her staring into the mirror, her eyes fixated on herself as she rubs a palm along her cheek and smearing her make-up; the whites of her eyes were replaced with a red demonic hue⊠only the irises seemed a brighter blue that stood out from the contrast. Her lip had curled into a twisted grin. There was a strange focus to her, a method to her madness, as she continue smearing the make-up. }
The Demon Phoenix: Shelly, Shelly, Shelly. You truly believe yourself when you say that you⊠EARNED⊠a chance to battle Tara in the ring. Tsk tsk.
{ She clicked her tongue several times before she stopped messing with her make-up and raised her eyes to look at the camera through the reflection. She tilted her head slightly. }
The Demon Phoenix: Sweetie⊠You are no one to Tara. You are nothing to Tara. You had a little-- string of luck-- a string of positivity that came your way, and let me just go ahead and tell you that Tara⊠She is nothing short of PROUD for you. PROUD of you. She does not want to break you, she does not want to break that fragile spirit of yours because you⊠you have battled⊠the worst of them all. But--
{ She clicked her tongue a few more times and her eyes strayed away. }
The Demon Phoenix: Misguided. Delusional. Mistaken. Fooled.
{ The expression on her face seemed to shift to disappointment, even puffing her bottom lip to give a pouting look. }
The Demon Phoenix: Foolish⊠girl⊠She doesnât want to hurt you. She doesnât want to hate you! She has won! But you still challenge her. Why do you challenge her? Why do you want to break yourself? Why do you want to SUFFER?!
{ The final question came out as a growl. The being on the camera snarled, and tilted her head back and forth a few more times as if to peer through the camera and look directly into the soul of Shelly. }
The Demon Phoenix: She will not accept. But I--
{ A sudden giggle. }
The Demon Phoenix: --WILL! You name the time. You name the place. And I⊠will⊠answer⊠But Tara. Tsk tsk. She will sit this one out. She will just hold back, but I-- I will break you! I will rip you apart! I will tear the flesh from bone, and make you remember⊠remember⊠how he treated you. Remember the monster that he is! Because you fight one-- greater. I accept.
{ She turned her attention back to the mirror and began carefully lining her eyes with red war paint as the Imperitron went static before going out entirely. }
-------------------------------------
TAG TEAM MATCH
Ulf Hednir and Pax Stormcrow vs Vendetta
-------------------------------------
{ The lights in the arena darken, and blue and white spotlights are cast upon the stage. Snow falls from the rafters, gently dancing in the lights, and landing softly onto the stage as the opening to Nonpoint's "In The Air Tonight" echoes throughout the arena. Jessé Marchand steps out from behind the curtain first, followed closely by Travis Reinhart. Marchand kneels on the stage with his head bowed, tapping his fist to his nose three times; while Reinhart stands behind him and runs his thumb across his throat in a slashing gesture. }
Alison Valance: Introducing first... coming down the aisle... weighing in at a combined weight of four hundred fifty-two pounds... The Iceman... Jessé Marchand... and The Clipper... Travis Reinhart... they are Vendetta!!
( Reinhart and Marchand begin to walk toward the ring with a cool and quiet confidence. )
Well, when you told me you were drowning
I would not lend a hand
I've seen your face before, my friend
But I don't know if you know who I am
Well, I was there and I saw what you did
I saw it with my own two eyes
So you can wipe off that grin
I know where you've been
It's all been a pack of lies
{ Both men pause at the bottom of the ramp, holding up the middle two fingers on their right hands in a "V" shape for the camera. Marchand slides underneath the bottom rope into the ring while Reinhart heads up the stairs and leaps over the top rope. They climb opposite corners, perching themselves on the middle turnbuckles. Marchand surveys the arena, looking side-to-side while Reinhart glances back over his shoulder toward the ring with a bit of a smirk. Both men hop down and remove their jackets as the lights rise and the song begins to fade out at the 01:53 mark. }
Terri Morasco: They claim they're the best tag team in the world, and they might have an argument. They have their work cut out for them tonight, however, as they'll be standing against our World Heavyweight Champion- the top guy in this industry right now- Ulf Hednir; and at his side, a man who has been on an absolute tear, the reigning Television Champion Pax Stormcrow.
Vasco Dias: They're not the best tag team in the world, Morasco; Violent Tendencies are. Those World Tag Team titles Violent Tendencies hold prove that. So can we stop with this nonsense? Or are we just going to start acknowledging everyone as the best whatever that claims to be the best? Now Vendetta are good. They've been a bit edgier as of late, and I dig the change in attitude. If you don't carry a chip in this business, you fail. So who knows, maybe these guys get there one day. Right now, no.
{ The lights in the arena dim, and there is the sound of a powerup collected in an old video game system. At the sound, the crowd leap to their feet with cheers 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 walks out onto the stage, looking around as the crowd bursts into cheers. He gives a smirk as the chanting on Suplex by A Tribe Called Red kicks in. }
Alison Valance: And one half of their opponents... from Aitkin, Minnesota... weighing in at two hundred forty pounds... the IWF Television Champion... Pax Stormcrow!
{ He stands at the top of the ramp, lifting his right fist into the air with his head down, bobbing his hooded head along with the music before marching down to the ring. He slides into the ring and jumps onto the second turnbuckle, throwing his hood off and hyping up the crowd with yells before slipping his coat off and letting it fall to the ground. }
Vasco Dias: If we're going to talk about who is the best, and who isn't... can someone please explain to me why our Television Champion comes to the ring in the middle of what looks like a Dollar Store rave? What is this, Morasco? First it's the boy-band warrior Keeton, and now it's this idiot... If I go Dance with the Stars, maybe I can become the Television Champ? I could do the Time Warp to the ring.
Terri Morasco: The Time Warp? Is that a dance? How old are you, anyway?
Vasco Dias: Ahem, yeah, so Pax... great Television Champion... moving on.
{ The opening introduction for âRaise Your Hornsâ by Amon Amarth plays over the PA system, and the crowd goes into a frenzy! The music can barely be heard over the sound of the fans. Ulf Hednir quickly shoves the curtains aside, dressed in his wolf headdress, and marches out onto the stage with the IWF World Championship being worn around his waist, and his drinking horn held high over his head. }
Ulf Hednir: SKĂ
L!
Crowd: SKĂ
L!
{ Ulf drinks from the drinking horn, and after, turns it upside down to show the crowd that there is nothing left. Ulf attaches the drinking horn to a strap hanging off his primary belt, and marches down the ramp to shake hands or high five many of the fans along the ramp; fans scramble to get as close as they can and he takes an extra moment to ensure he greets as many as he can. Ulf goes around to the right side of the ring, still greeting as many fans as he can until he reaches the timekeeperâs table, where he removes the headdress and the drinking horn, placing them on the table. He walks up to the apron and leaps up, grabbing the ropes, and leaning back to let loose a mighty howl. }
Raise your horns, raise them up to the sky,
We will drink to glory tonight!
Raise your horns for brave fallen friends,
We will meet where the beer never ends!
{The chorus plays over, and Ulf steps between the middle and top ropes before parading around the ring a bit. He removes the championship from his waist, and holds it over his head while showing it to all sides of the crowd. He finally hands it to the referee in charge, and waits for the match to start.}
Vasco Dias: So I probably don't need to ask you who you have in this match, Morasco. If we're lucky, we won't have to restrain you from going down there and awkwardly sniffing his headdress on live television. Going to ask me who I got?
Terri Morasco: ....
Vasco Dias: Morasco?
Terri Morasco: ...
Vasco Dias: Morasco!? Over here! Can we get a mop and bucket at the announce table, somebody?
Terri Morasco: Wait, what? Were you saying something about Johnny Somebody? Is he in this match? I need to look at my notes. I'm so lost right now. I was having... a moment.
Vasco Dias (throwing his notes in the air): Terri Morasco, ladies and gentlemen. I am picking Vendetta, thanks for asking... and yes my back does hurt from carrying this broadcast.
{ Marchand and Pax start off for their respective teams after conversations with their partners. Pax quickly goes for a double leg takedown, which Marchand stuffs. Marchand drives an elbow to the base of Pax's skull, then tries for a suplex. Pax blocks. Pax tries a counter, and Marchand blocks. Marchand throws a fist into Pax's ribs, creating some separation. Pax strikes back with a European uppercut, followed by a chop, then another European Uppercut, and lastly a German suplex to complete the chain. }
{ Pax quickly goes into a cover, but Marchand kicks out at one. Pax locks in a side headlock. Marchand pushes down on the back of Pax's knee, trying to force a break. Pax wrenches down, fighting up. The Iceman backs Pax against the ropes and shoots him off. Marchand drops down as Pax leaps over. Marchand catches Pax on the rebound with a drop-toe-hold. Pax's face hits the mat, and Ulf tries to rally the crowd for his partner. }
{ Marchand tags Reinhart. Reinhart goes to work with a Double Underhook Mat Slam on Pax. Reinhart tags Marchand, who comes in and delivers a Gutwrench suplex on Pax. Marchand tags back out to Reinhart. The two men lay the boots into Pax, keeping him grounded in Vendetta's corner. Pax fights from underneath, forcing his way up as Marchand leaves the ring at the last second of the official's count. Travis fires off a stinging sidekick to Pax, followed by a calf kick, then a jawbreaker before completing his chain with a superkick that floors Pax. }
{ Reinhart shows off a bit for a group of women in the front row. He spins to go back to work, but the ever-resilient Pax catches a blistering kick attempt and takes him over with a dragon screw leg whip. Pax shakes the sting out of his hand off the catch, then lays in some chops to drive Travis back toward the Champions' corner. Pax scoops Reinhart up and deposits him on the canvas with an Olympic Slam. Pax makes a tag to Ulf, and the crowd roars. }
Vasco Dias: This will be an interesting showdown! Two world class wrestlers, and two guys with MMA backgrounds about to lock up here.
Terri Morasco: Ulf charges with a head of steam... and hits a running big boot to the seated Reinhart! Ulf forgoes a cover, though... maybe sensing he doesn't have it. I trust my big, muscular Viking Warrior's judgment on all things.
Vasco Dias: Morasco, do you realize how hard this job will be for you to do with a restraining order slapped on you? I'm not commentating with you over Zoom because you can't be in the same building as Ulf.
{ Ulf applies the Bjorn Hug on Travis, tightening down on Reinhart's lower back. Reinhart reaches for his partner, who is far away. Travis surveys his position in anguish, finally electing to hit Hednir with a few bell claps to break the hold. Reinhart throws a roundhouse kick, which Ulf astutely blocks with his MMA background. Ulf tries a spinning back fist, but Travis ducks. Reinhart stomps down on the top of Ulf's foot, then fires off a spinning heel kick. }
{ Ulf staggers toward the ropes, but is largely able to absorb the punishing blow. Reinhart strikes with a tornado DDT, spiking Ulf's head into the canvas. Reinhart covers, and you can almost sense a collective gasp from the crowd- but Hednir kicks out just before the two. Reinhart pulls off up and applies a side headlock. The World Champion pushes Reinhart back into the ropes, powering him off. Hednir leaps and pounces on Travis with a Lou Thesz Press. Ulf rains down three hard punches on Reinhart's skull, and ends the sequence with a crushing elbow. }
{ Ulf hits the ropes, presumably looking for the Clothesline from Valhalla. He bounces off the Vendetta side, however, possibly not quite adjusted to being in tag team contests. Marchand saves his partner by pulling the top rope down, dumping Ulf over the top. Blue Shoes admonishes Marchand, who throws up his hands indicating he intends to do no more. Jesse reaches out, trying to shorten the path to a tag as much as he can for his partner. }
{ Reinhart crawls three paces on his knees, and then lunges for a tag. Marchand takes the tag and drops off the apron, attempting to take the fight to Ulf. Marchand hits Ulf with a bulldog onto the floor. Marchand presses with his speed, executing a spinning neckbreaker on Ulf. The Iceman rolls Ulf in, then slides under the bottom rope after him. }
{ Hednir is up relatively quickly for just having his face driven into the floor. The positioning works in Marchand's favor, however, as he drops Ulf backward with the Fallen Phoenix. Pax claps, now trying to rally the crowd in support around Hednir. The tactic works, as the vast majority of the building is standing and chanting for Ulf now. Marchand shoots a cover, but Hednir kicks out at two. Marchand sits for a moment in relative disbelief. }
Terri Morasco: Vendetta has twice tried to topple the Champion, and they've came close on both occasions! They have to be asking themselves now what it will take! How do you put a man like that away?
Vasco Dias: It's a question that almost no one has been able to answer so far.
{ Marchand moves on Ulf again, but the Champion counters Marchand's quickness with a massive Biel that sends Marchand flying into the corner! Ulf draws life from the crowd and goes up on the second buckle, trapping Marchand in the corner. Hednir brings ten punches down on Marchand's skull as the audience counts along. }
{Ulf brings Marchand to the Champions' corner, and he tags Pax. Stormcrow leaps the top rope, and he takes Marchand down with a double leg takedown. The two trade positioning for a moment, showing off their mat wrestling abilities. Pax gains a leg up in time, forcing Marchand into a deadlift powerbomb. Stormcrow covers... One!... Two!!... No! Marchand kicks out! Pax spends a quick second wiping the sweat from his eyes, planning his next move. }
{ Stormcrow goes back on the assault, looking for the Broken Wing, but Marchand kicks him off. The Television Champ is knocked backward into Blue Shoes, and Blue careens to the outside. Hednir goes down to check on the official and make sure he's okay. Stormcrow pulls Marchand up and Irish Whips him into the ropes. Reinhart makes a blind tag on Marchand's back that Pax, Ulf and the downed official all miss as Pax sets for a back body drop. Marchand punts Pax in the chest and shoulder area with everything he has, and Reinhart comes in and delivers a superkick to Pax! }
Terri Morasco: Pax was rocked by that kick! The cohesiveness of Vendetta showing there! And now it's Vendetta looking for a double-team... setting up for what looks to be a 'Roughrider' on Pax! Ulf helping Blue Shoes up and into the ring...
Vasco Dias: Ulf may be doing the right thing, but I question if it's the smart thing here... go grab a chair and blast someone in the skull while Blue Shoes is napping. Take the easy win.
Terri Morasco: That's not who Ulf is, Vasco... Roughrider on Pax!... Vendetta could be preparing to close this match out...
{ Vendetta goes for Stormbreaker, but a groggy Blue Shoes instructs Reinhart he has to leave the ring, having missed the earlier tag. Vendetta protest the halt to their momentum. Blue Shoes starts a count on Reinhart. Having no choice, he relents to the official's count. Marchand sucks in a deep breath of air while reaching to grab Stormcrow as the match crosses over the twenty minute mark. Stormcrow bursts into a desperation flurry with a European Uppercut, then a facebuster in succession! Pax pops up quickly, and he hits 'Peace Out' on Marchand for a pin! The official slides into position, and his hand goes down... One!... Two!!... Three!!! Pax Stormcrow scores the pin as Reinhart dives in a hair late for the save! }
Terri Morasco: Pax and Ulf picking up a huge victory here! Pax scored that from seemingly out of nowhere, and Vendetta are stunned!
Vasco Dias: Do you blame them?! Reinhart was technically legal. They were on the verge of victory. Blue Shoes botched this, and Pax pinned the illegal man! Vendetta have a legitimate gripe.
Terri Morasco: It was an honest mistake by the official, Vasco. No one deliberately tried to cheat anyone out of anything.
Vasco Dias: I understand that, but you don't think that still sucks for the two guys who lost this match? I guarantee they're not going to see it that way.
{ Reinhart kneels next to his partner. Marchand sits, clearly frustrated. Jesse pleads his case to Blue Shoes as Ulf and Pax celebrate their win with each other to the tune of Pax's music. The night isn't quite over though as heads in the audience start to turn toward the stage. }
Terri Morasco: It's Tara Fenix!
Vasco Dias: But why!?
{ Tara stands atop the stage, arms crossed and watching the scene play out before her with no hint of her intentions for being there. }
Terri Morasco: This certainly leaves us with more questions than answers, but we won't find out this week as we're out of time! Thanks for watching and we'll see you next week!
Well howdy there pardner.