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HOUR ONE------------------------------------
{ 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. }Summer Thompson: Hi Guys, Gals and Non-binary pals! It's me! Summer and Ella just run the show now. Terri and Vasco do the regular matches but we just run things now, I guess?
Ella Kelley: It means we get a raise and I am all for that.
Summer Thompson: I know right? And we have a packed show here tonight. We have Heiress to the throne plus a title match!
Ella Kelley: Also the return of Angel Blake.
Summer Thompson: But first, Jason and Alek have a match!
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SINGLES MATCH Alek Bronson vs Jason Williams
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{ "Simple Man" starts strumming as Alek walks out to a shower of pyro. He stops right outside the gate and looks around. He walks to the pace of the song. He holds up his hand with the pinky and index fingers extended and the rest pinched in the middle while he stops in the middle of the ramp. Then proceeds to the apron as he jumps up to the ring edge. He steps over the ropes and enters. He takes off his aviators and his coat and hand them to the outside as he stretches. }{ After allowing the guitar instrumental to play out for a short while Jason takes to the stage, soaking all of the atmosphere in; the lights, the fans, the noise. He slaps a few hands as he makes his way to the ring, not so much that he goes out of his way to do so but he's not going to actively ignore people. He climbs the steel steps and walks the apron for a moment, glancing once more at the fans before entering the ring through the middle rope. He'll take position in the centre and stare at the hard-cam, hands clasped behind his back, as he prepares for battle. }{ The match kicked off with Jason trying for a tie up but Alek wasnât having it and used his superior strength to shove Jason away. Williams didnât take kindly to the offense and came in with a go behind and tried to take Alek to the mat. Alek managed to over power Jason and broke up the attempt with a back elbow and side walk slam. Alek would then take control of the match at the three minute mark and continue to use big moves to break Jason down. Alek connected with a running big boot, irish whips, knee thrusts in the corner and topped this offensive spat off with a big stalling vertical suplex but only managed to get a two count.
From the pinning position, Jason would go for a triangle choke on Alek and nearly locked it in all the way but the big man pulled Williams up for a single arm power bomb. Jason released the hold and connected with a roaring European upper cut. Jason then took control of the match with a string of offense on Alek. Jason knife edge chopped Alek into the corner, hit a Russian leg sweep into the turnbuckles, then proceeded to connect with a armbreaker. With Alek reeling from the offense, Jason saw his chance to put the big man away and went for the Fujiwara Armbar. Alek looked to be done for but the big man managed to kick his way to the ropes and touch them with a toe tip to break the hold.
Jason released the hold and got back to his feet. Alek pulled himself up on the ropes. Jason came in hot but Alek dumped Jason onto the ring apron with a back drop. Jason tried to come back in but Alek was there with a two handed choke toss back into the ring. As Jason stood back up, Alek was there with the Honor Break combo that sent Jason to the mat. Alek covered but it was only a two count.
Alek pulled Jason back up to his feet and sent Williams into the ropes. Alek looked poised to go for the Glaive but Jason connected with a knee to the top of Alekâs skull! Jason followed right up with a knee to the gut then Seeing Stars! Jason then hit the ropes and rebounded back across the ring crashing into Alek with the Last Call! Jason made the cover and picked up the win at fifteen minutes and nineteen seconds! }Vasco Dias: What an incredible match!
Terri Morasco: Jason Williams and Alek Bronson went to war tonight!
Vasco Dias: Both these men have a bright future in my opinion!
Terri Morasco: Absolutely! Next up the TAG TEAM TITLES ARE ON THE LINE! Roberto Verona and JC Keeton defend against TDH!!!
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TAG-TEAM MATCH CHAMPIONSHIP MATCHRoberto Verona & JC Keeton vs TDH
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{During the break the challengers for the World Tag Team Championships made their ways to the ring hyping the crowd up and getting them prepared for what was sure to be a great match up. While Nick Hunter and Nate Harris were up on the turnbuckles playing to the crowds cheers the beat to "Born Legendary" by Emanuel Vo Williams hits.}I crawled out the gutter
I rose to the top
My reign everlasting
I canât be stopped
I was made for the throne
Rise up til I moan
You been waiting on a ruler
Well Iâm home
{As soon as he says the word "Home" pyro explodes from the rampway as JC Keeton steps through the curtain with his half of the Tag Team titles over his shoulder. He makes his way to the ring bouncing in rhythm to the music. When he reaches the ring he places the title on the apron and leaps up onto the apron and steps through the ropes, He continues to sway and bounce from heel to heel smirking at TDH.}{The lights in the arena all go out at "King of the World" by Porcelain and the Tramps begins to blare out of the PA system. Spotlights begin to scan the crowd before fixating on a figure at the top of the stage which is revealed to be Roberto Verona, his head bowed towards the floor. As cheers being to resonate around the arena Verona raises his head and he begins a slow methodical march down the ramp, the spotlight following him as golden pyro rains down from above on the stage. Verona stares with disgust at the crowd who cheer him as he approaches the ring, but he doesn't react to them. As he reaches the steps he slowly ascends them before walking towards the middle of the ring apron, turning around to look into the crowd one last time before looking up and closing his eyes as he stretches his arms out wide and basks in the adulation. After indulging himself Verona climbs into the ring, psyching himself up as he awaits the beginning of the match. }{After a brief conversation the champions agree that Keeton will start while Nick Hunter is already in the ring waiting for the bell while Nate stands on the apron. Roberto goes to the apron and the bell sounds. JC and Nick lock up with Keeton snatching a side headlock. Hunter lifts him up for either an Atomic Drop or Back Suplex but Keeton backflips out of it and hits a picture perfect drop kick between the shoulder blades sending Nick chest first into the ropes. On the rebound JC snaps him backwards on top of his head with a Half & Half Suplex then makes the tag to Roberto. Before exiting the ring Keeton brings Hunter to his knees and the champions hit stereo Knee strikes to either side of the challengers head. Verona stomps Nick a few times then brings him to his feet and hits a Swinging Neckbreaker. He then bursts towards the opponents corner and smashes Nate in the face with a forearm knocking him off the apron. Enraged Harris tried to get back in the ring but the referee prevented him from entering the ring allowing Roberto to drive a knee into the groin of Hunter. When the referee turned back around clueless to the illegal blow Verona tags Keeton back in.} {The match would continue much the same way with the champions making quick tags and showing a good deal of cohesion while isolating Nick Hunter before Nick was finally able to slip free from JC's grip and make the hot tag to Nate who came in fired up and Hip Tossed Keeton into the turnbuckle. Harris then really went to work on JC pulling out a variety of Suplexes and a ring rattling Powerslam. Keeton would power out of the Bourbon Street Breaker only to be pulled back to the center of the ring when he was inches from making the tag. Harris then nearly broke him in half with Revision and got a long two count out of it before Verona broke up the pin. After Keeton and Harris both got back to their feet a full on fist fight broke out with the slightly bigger man in JC gaining the upper hand after a spinning uppercut that leveled one half of Team Diversity Hire. Keeton then tagged out to Verona while Harris also was able to roll to his corner and tag Hunter back in.}{Sacrifice went to commercial and when it returned Nick Hunter was beginning to make a come back but before he could tag out Keeton pulled Harris off the apron and those two began to brawl out on the floor while Verona sized up Nick. As soon as Hunter turned around his head almost got sent into the front row when Roberto's knee connected with Veni, Vidi, Vici. Outside the ring JC drops Nate with Ode to the Outlaw while Roberto covered Nick. While completely unnecessarily since Hunter was full on snoring JC grabbed his feet from outside the ring holding them down behind the refs back to prevent any chance of a kick out as if there was one. The referee counts 1...2âŠ3! The official time of the match was 17 minutes and 8 seconds.} Terri Morasco: The IWF World Tag Team Champions, Roberto Verona and JC Keeton retain here in their first defense. You have to wonder if Verona is having an influence on Keeton after some very uncharacteristic tactics.
Vasco Dias: The more he becomes like our Boss the better off he'll be. I like it.
Terri Morasco: Of course you do. We'll be right back.
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SEGMENT------------------------------------
{ We come back from the break with IWF Womenâs World Champion, Shelly Diamond in the interview area, World title over her shoulder. }Shelly Diamond: I gave you two weeks to respond, Tara. Two weeks to pick a date. Iâm done waiting for an answer. Tonight? Iâm going to beat an answer out of you!
{ Shelly turns and walks off as we head back to the arena. }------------------------------------
HEIRESS TO THE THRONE MATCHSorcha Wynne and itami
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{ the drums and guitars of "Rule of Nines" start to echo across the arena as Mist flls the entryway before Sorcha rises up form the floor when the main riff kicks in. stepping out smoothly dressed in a long cloak, ring gear underneath before sh walks down the entryway , climbing the steps and kneeling in the middle of the ring to mutter some sof sopoke prayer, rising discard the cloak jacket and move to the corner. }{ 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 three 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 gazing into the crowd and taking in their reaction. Winter, Ferriman, and Itami walk slowly to the ring smiling as they take in the insults of the infidels. }{ The match started off with Itami and Sorcha trying to jockey for an advantage in a tie up. Sorcha went for a go behind but Itami stuffed the attempt and connected with a spin kick. Itami then pressed forward with several more strikes that drove Sorcha back. Sorcha finally broke up the offensive by boxing the ears of Itami. Sorcha hit a capture suplex and then moved forward with breaking down a limb of Itami. Itami, however, was able to break up the attempted limb work of Sorcha with a well time kick to the jaw. Itami came back to her feet and went on the offense with elbow strikes. Itami capped off her flurry with a brainbuster and a pin attempt. Sorcha kicked out at two.
The match continued from there with Itami trying to put Sorcha away with several more movies including a kitchen sink. Sorcha continued to kick out of the pin attempts and finally made a come back with Riastad! Sorcha followed it up with the Witching Hour and a pin attempt of her own but Itami was able to kick out at two. Sorcha pulled Itami up to her feet and unloaded on her with strikes of her own. Sorcha hit a fall away slam and looked prepped to end the match but Itami hit a roundhouse kick with a chop combo! Itami then hit a sliding lariat and went for the Baku!
Sorcha was able to avoid the attack from Itami and caught her with an open hand strike! Sorcha then grabbed Itami with the Banrigh Dhearg for the pinfall and the win at ten minutes and eleven seconds! }------------------------------------
SINGLES MATCHNick Knight vs Johnny Somebody
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Alison Valance: The following contest is scheduled for one fall. Introducing first from The Church of Crosse Compound Johnny Somebody!!!
{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 three 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 gazing into the crowd and taking in their reaction. Winter, Ferriman, Somebody, and Itami walk slowly to the ring smiling as they take in the insults of the infidels.
Once at ring side Somebody climbs the steps and bows their head in the corner, saying a quick prayer to The Father. When he turns red pyro erupts from the ring post momentarily casting his in an synyster light.}His opponent from Los Angeles, California he is âThe Hollywood Butcherâ Nick Knight!!!
{This Means War by Five Finger Death Punch hits over the sound system as Nick Knight and The Brotherhood steps out onto the entrance ramp. The donât wait for any fancy pyro or video package they all three spring to ringside like the devil is on their asses Nick slides into the ring and is attacking Johnny before the bell even sounds, while James Knight and Gabrielle Crosse each go after Gregor Winter and Jack Ferriman.}Teri Morasco: Months of hatred between The Church of Crosse and The Brother hood may have finally boiled over!
Vasco Dias: The Brotherhood is just proving that they are nothing but a pack of thugs discriminating against a religion that is different from their own.
{Nick launches Somebody out of the ring and all six men are fighting all over ringside. Gregor Winter grabs a chair and launches it into the face of Gabriel Crosse before following it up with a big running boot that sends the smaller man flying over the guard rail and into the front rom of the crowd. A few feet away James Knight is getting the best of Jack Ferriman and he plants The Disciple skull first atop the ring steps with Banned In Memphis. Nick Knight is getting the best of Johnny Somebody but the smallest man in the match turns things around when he smacks Knight in the head with the hammer for the ring bell.}Teri Morasco: We were supposed to be having a match, but this has turned into a pier six brawl.
Vasco Dias: Donât complain Teri this is probably going to be the most entertaining thing on this entire show!
Teri Morasco: Entertaining? Someone could seriously get hurt and we need security out here to break this up right now!
{Gabriel Crosse jumps up onto a chair that a fan has vacated before leaping over the guard rail and taking Winter down with a hurricanrana. The younger brother of âThe Real Unholy Sonâ is fired up as he picks up the chair that Winter had thrown at him and teed off on The Viking sending the sound of steel on skull echoing through the arena. Jack Ferriman out of the picture after that piledriver atop the ring steps allows James Knight to come to the aid of his oldest brother and fight off Johnny Somebody, but the damage is down and a massive cut has been opened over Nickâs eye.}Teri Morasco: Itâs like a ten car pile up out here, we really need help!
{Security comes running down the aisle and does their best to try to get the fighting under control, but as soon as they seem to get it broken up it flairs up again. Finally security is able to push The Church of Crosse members to the top of the entrance ramp, while The Brotherhood remained inside of the ring. Battered and bloody Nick Knight asks for a microphone.}Nick Knight: Itâs no secret that I want to destroy you guys and you want to destroy me, but weâre going to just end up destroying each other. The way we are going right now no one is ever going to win, because there canât be a winner with all this jumping people from behind bullshit. So I purpose we end this shit once and for all at Holiday Havoc in a Civil War Match. We put a cell around the ring and fill it with weapons. Two men start after five minutes one man enters from the team that wins the coin toss. After that another man enters every two minutes until all six of us are inside of the cage. Then itâs first pinfall or submission to win.
Gregor Winter: Alright, we can do that.
Nick Knight: I wasnât done Gregor. If you win we will ride off into the sunset never to be heard from again, but if we win The Church of Crosse is forever banned from IWF Programming. That means members are fired and if any future member of the roster so much as mentions The Church their asses are fired too.
{Static comes across the giant tron for a moment only to be replaced by the face of Lucipher
Crosse.}Lucipher Crosse: Brother Nicky that is the first good idea you might have had in your entire life. We accept.
{Crosseâs face fades from the screen leaving very concerned members of The Church of Crosse standing at the top of the entrance ramp.}Teri Morasco: Christmas maybe coming early this year as we could once and for all be rid of The Church of Crosse.
Vasco Dias: We could just as easily be rid of those posers in The Brotherhood.
Teri Morasco: I guess weâll see at Holiday Havoc.
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SINGLES MATCHWraith vs Nick Danger
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{ I Hate U by Boston Manor 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. }{The lights throughout the arena go out row, by row, by row, until the arena is shrouded in absolute darkness. The lights come on and Wraith is standing in the center of the ring â in unison, the crowd letâs out a heavy gasp. He tilts his head back and forth, eyeing the crowd, while waiting for the match to begin.}{ The match opened with both men jockeying for control in a tie up. Wraith eventually moved things into a side headlock and a take down. Wraith would attempt to keep Danger on the mat and began focusing his attention on the left arm of Danger. Nick would fight his way back to his feet and break Wraith off of him with a superkick! Nick then took the ropes and his high flying roots with a series of manuevers. Danger would connect with a knee strike, a sling blade and finally a 450 splash for a cover but it wasnât enough to put Wraith away who kicked out at two. Wraith would mount a comeback at five minutes into the match after catching Danger off a springboard with a Genecide Kick! Wraith would then refocus his attention on the left leg of Danger, opting to remove his high flying arsenal with a chop block. Wraith continued his assault on the left leg of Danger with a DDT to the ball of the foot followed by a heel hook. Danger managed to get to the ropes and regain his footing but Wraith was on him with a sitout jawbreaker. Wraith attempted a cover byt Danger was able to kick out. Both men found their feet again but Danger seemed to be favoring his left leg at seven minutes into the match.
Wraith would come in for another Genecide Kick but Danger was able to avoid it and connect with another sling blade. Danger took back control of the match with a springboard cross body block and a spring board Legacy Cutter for a two count. Danger began to see an opening now as he went for Sliced bread on Wraith but the painted man kicked the left leg out from under Danger on the ropes. Wraith followed up with a leg sweep. Danger attempted to get back up but Wraith had him with a single leg take down. Wraith locked in the Absolution now on that left leg but Danger was able to get to the ropes to break the hold. Wraith was up to his feet at this point. Danger was slow to follow. Wraith came in. Danger went for a superkick. Wraith got under it and launched himself off the ropes with Whisper in the Wind! Wraith pulled Danger right up and into the Howling for the victory at twelve minutes and thirteen seconds! }Vasco Dias: Wraith with an impressive win here tonight as he and Angel look to Holiday Havoc for a final showdown!
Terri Morasco: Momentum is important going into a big match like that!
Vasco Dias: Very true and momentum will be what Tara Fenix, Wraithâs mother, will be hoping to grow in our next match up!
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HOUR TWO------------------------------------
HEIRESS TO THE THRONE MATCHTara Fenix vs Birdie Winston
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{The lights turn purple and Follow Your Arrow starts playing Birdie Winston jogs out and does variations of silly dances and a back flip. She makes her way down the aisle and executes a unique front-handspring from turnbuckle corner to the ring.}{Every light throughout the arena flickers out while the crowd gives a premature cheer; when the beginning of âThe Eagle Flies Aloneâ begins to play, a blue spotlight comes in at the same sequence and is shining at the curtain which gets the crowd riled up further. The cheers that The Phoenix Queen is receiving from the audience is outweighing anyone in the crowd that opposes her. The sound of the fog machines can be heard going off heavily as the stage soon fills with fog. The lights in the arena are coming back up creating a blue hue and just as the chorus kicks in, the crowd lets out a huge roar when they finally see Tara Fenix emerge from behind the curtain.}I, I go my own way!
I swim against the stream!
(Forever) I will fight the powers that be!
{Tara is standing at the top of the stage wearing one of her designed jackets, and the hood pulled over her head. She is carrying a flagpole with a flag attached; she takes a moment to scan the crowd and see the number of her supporters and soon she raises the flag and waves it back and forth several times and the cameras do their own scan over the crowd and can see a number of people raising the same logo that is on the banner. The Age of the Phoenix. Tara continues to wave the banner for a few more seconds before holding it straight up and bringing the pole down to tap it against the stage and finally slings the pole over her shoulder while marching down to the ring. Some of the fans stretch their hands out for her, and she walks to one side with her arm held out slightly; however, her eyes remain locked on the ring. When she reaches the bottom of the ramp she goes to the nearby steel steps and quickly ascends. She stops for a moment and carefully attaches her own flagpole to the steel post where the Age of the Phoenix banner will be for the duration of the match.}I, I go my own way!
I swim against the stream!
(Forever) I will fight the pÎżwers that be!
The eagle flies alone!
{After securing the flagpole to the ring pole, she takes two steps on the apron before sliding forward and down onto one knee; her head and eyes scan the crowd again while the crowd is chanting her name. She finally crawls between the middle and bottom ropes then charges to the far corner and as she lands on the second rope, she pulls her hood back and lets her arms go out with her palms up. She holds the pose for several seconds, then does a one-eighty off of the second rope to land back on her feet; she runs to the opposite end where the flagpole is, and repeats the process but this time holds the banner out for all to see the symbol. She does another one-eighty, lands inside the ring, and takes off her jacket while waiting for the match to begin.}{At the sound of the bell, the veteran proved her dominance against the rookie; Tara controlled Birdie with takedowns and was looking to use holds to try and wear down Birdie. Birdie would withstand most of the damage and finally get to a standing position where she connected with an overhand chop⊠This seemed to only infuriate Tara as she began wailing against Birdie into the corner and just turned into a brawl. Tara would gain a few two counts that Birdie would kick out of until Tara connected with the Burn to Ashes / BTA (GTS) to go for the cover. Birdie appeared to be fully unconscious. She got the count of two before Tara raised Birdie up and signaled that she wasnât done with her.
Tara would go for the Tara Lock⊠But Birdie is able to fight it off! Birdie was able to get to the ropes before Tara could get the hold locked in. Again, Tara was infuriated and practically ripped Birdie to her feet, and was looking to start the sequence for TPT (The Phoenix Triangle), but Birdie was able to fire with an elbow that knocked Tara back! Birdie hit an inverted atomic drop which stunned Tara momentarily; but Tara fired for the Genocide Kick! Birdie was able to avoid and roll Tara up for a near-fall but the surprise wasnât enough to earn the three count. Upon getting back to their feet, Birdie looked to hit a second inverted atomic drop only for Tara to reverse it into the Phoenix Wings! Tara didnât play around anymore, and covered Birdie for the three-count.} Winner by pinfall at 17:54: TARA FENIX
Terri Morasco: Birdie held on for as long as she could but Tara proved to be too much for her on this night!
Vasco Dias: She went from fighting Virginia, to fighting Tara, who is the measuring stick of the women's division! Birdie should probably take Tara up on that offer to be trained.
Terri Morasco: Up next we have Angel going against Ethan, and I... I just don't know. Angel is looking to send a message to both Wraith and Tara! He's looking to hurt someone!
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SINGLES MATCHAngel Blake vs Ethan Knight
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{ We come back from the commercial break with Ethan Knight already in the ring. }{ All the lights in the arena go out as words blaze across the Imperitron. }âBlessed are the wicked who are healed by my hands.â
{ The opening notes of the orchestra version of Gateways begins to play as flames erupt across the stage like napalm. Slowly Angel Blake begins to rise from within the flames with his arms outstretched wearing a long black coat with the birthdate of his grandson embroidered on the back. Angel throws his arms up in the air as the metal version of Gateways really kicks into gear. Flames erupt all the way down the stage and ignite the ring posts as well as the lyrics finally kick in. }The core principle of freedom
Is the only notion to obey
The formula of evolution and sin
Leading the way
{ Angel steps out of the flames looking over to the crowd with a terrible grin before looking toward the ring. He scowls as he begins to walk, flames erupting behind him with every step. Angel finally reaches the ring, lifting his coat to walk up the steps. He stops on the apron and looks out toward the crowd as the song blasts. Blake throws his arms out and his head back as the arena lights go up to a blinding level. Blake turns and steps into the ring with confidence heading over to the far corner. The chorus comes back around as Angel stands up on the second turnbuckle and crosses his arms over his head in an X. Blake hops down and turns his back to the corner and waits in the ring for the match to begin. }{ Angel hit Divine Justice on Ethan Knight right as the bell was rung. Angel kept the punishment going from there as he worked over Ethan with several strikes to the knee. Ethan attempted to fight back but Angel pressed his advantage with a Dragon Screw Leg Whip. Knight tried to find his footing after that but Angel connected with another Divine Justice. Angel began toying with Ethan now as they reached the four minute mark of the match. Angel allowed Ethan to get back up and even entertained a tie up but then Angel would hit another Divine Justice followed by a Genocide Kick! Angel then locked in the Absolution on Ethan Knight who tapped out as quickly as they possibly could. As Angeâs music plays quietly in the background he asks for a microphone. }âI know you are watchingâŠâ
âSonâŠâ
âWhat you just witnessed?â
âWas only a fraction of the Hell coming your wayâŠâ{ Angel drops the mic as Gateways picks back up, the crowd in the arena roaring for their dark hero. }Vasco Dias: Angel with an ominous threat directed at Wraith.
Terri Morasco: I cannot wait to see these to square off again!
Vasco Dias: It is going to be a hellish war!
Terri Morasco: Next up weâve got Rowan taking on Caroline! Stay tuned!
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SEGMENT------------------------------------
#Dare2DreamAgain: "Live For Yourself, Live With Yourselfâ
{ Legacy 2020. Cotton Bowl -- Dallas, TX
We see a black-and-white image of James Gilmore climbing up to the top of the Death Cage, with 90,000 fans and original All Infamous Academy trainees cheering him on. His entire body would quiver from head to toe as the Islander alum grabbed the IWF Menâs World title from its moorings and raised it up high, with images showing fireworks exploding from all corners of the venerable stadium as fans went wild. }James Gilmore (voice): In life, we look to people -- and not the signs -- for guidance and helpâŠ
{ The lasting image from that pay-per-view shows Gilmore celebrating with the recruits as they chanted âhappy flight!â We then see some rare backstage photos of Fiona and Rob hugging JJ as tightly as they could, obviously breaking character to celebrate the accomplishment of their longtime friend. The images soon slowly fade to black as the Creed song âMy Sacrificeâ begins to play. }James Gilmore (voice): But ya know somethinâ, thereâs only so much your friends can doâŠ
{ We see video of JJ holding onto a pair of railings as rehab of his injured left leg gets underway. A lone nurse looks on and nods warmly, taking notes on a notepad. }âHello my friend we meet again
It's been a while where should we begin?
Feels like forever
Within my heart are memories
Of perfect love that you gave to me
Oh I rememberâ{ We then see interspersed video clips of JJâs past matches from 2019 and 2020, culminating in his second World title win in 2021 over Caleb Lockwood. The pain, the struggle, the journey...a close-up of JJâs bloodied visage reveals to the world what these moments meant to him. }âWhen you are with me, I'm free
I'm careless, I believe
Above all the others we'll fly
This brings tears to my eyes
My sacrificeâ{ We then see some more video of Jamesâ rehab, learning how to properly stretch out so it could be fitted into a cast. His wife Yulia watches his progression with a loving smile, knowing that heâs on the right path to recovery. }James Gilmore: We struggle, we fall down, we get back up, but most imortant of all...ya gotta be able to live for yourself -- âcuz ya gotta live
with yourselfâŠ
{ The clips eventually return to that glorious scene in the Cotton Bowl, but instead of being surrounded by Academy recruits, heâs surrounded by a heavily-edited group of IWF superstars as they seem to be ready for battle! The show then fades to black, revealing a message to the IWF Galaxy. }MARCH 27, 2022 - HOUSTON, TEXAS
#Dare2DreamAgain------------------------------------
HEIRESS TO THE THRONE MATCHRowan MacDonnough vs Caroline Machado
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{Lights out. The thrumming opening of âTrip the Darknessâ by Lacuna Coil pulses through the arena, matched by a few flashing sparks of dark red light throughout the building. Red lights shine down and around the entranceway, still accompanied by sporadic flashing throughout the arena, illuminating the sihlouette of Rowan MacDonnough standing at the top of the ramp, a pair of chains hanging from her wrists. She breathes heavily, shoulders heaving as her head hangs down. As the opening continues, red smoke floods down the ramp as Rowan occasionally twitches spasmodically in rhythm with the music...}"Come to me, come to me... I am waiting for you. Come to me... I can't wait..."
{As the song roars to life, Rowan's head snaps upwards, glaring around at the audience as her golden eyes glint in the smoke and the red light. The stage and ramp are lit by swirling red light, but everything else remains dark. She lopes forward, unconsciously rolling her wrists as her eyes bore a hole in the air before her. The smoke seems to follow her down the ramp as she walks. She drops the chains as she reaches ringside, climbing up the ropes and perching over the ring on the top corner, standing slowly as she continues to twitch and spasm in time with the music.}"Follow me, follow me! As I trip the Darkness... one more time!"
{She leaps into the ring, landing with a roll in the center of the ring and pulling into a feral crouch. She stands, raising her arms as though conducting a savage chorus, posing one last time...}"Follow me, follow me... I awake from madness.... JUST IN TIME!"
{She slowly, reluctantly backs towards a corner, eyes constantly moving as she settles in to wait for the bell.}Terri Morasco: I dread to think about what might happen to any poor soul who steps in the ring with this monster...
Vasco Dias: Rowan wants to use FORCE to win this tournament!
"Her ongoing mission...to boldly go where no one has gone before..."
{ The voice of Sir Patrick Stewart echoes throughout the arena before Dua Lipa's "Levitating" begins to blare. A blast a pyro goes off as Caroline Machado heads out to the stage, dancing to the beat of the tune while sporting a brief, but warmhearted grin on her face. }"(Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah)
I got you, moonlight, you're my starlight
I need you, all night
Come on, dance with me
(I'm levitating)
You, moonlight, you're my starlight
I need you, all night
Come on, dance with me
(I'm levitating)"
{ The Brazilian shimmies and twirls down the ramp, often stopping to give some lucky fans a hug or two. Her motion is fluid as she makes her way down to the ring, again dancing to the beats. }"You can fly away with me tonight
You can fly away with me tonight
Baby, let me take you for a ride
(Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah)
(I'm levitating)
You can fly away with me tonight
You can fly away with me tonight
Baby, let me take you for a ride
(Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah)..."
{ The lights fade out to a rotating green and yellow hue, with Caroline continuing to dance and pose for the cheering crowd. Eventually, the lights come back on as she gets into her MMA fighting position and waits for the match to start. }Vasco Dias: Unfortunately, looks like this young galâs Rowanâs next victim!
Terri Morasco: Highly unlikely Carolineâs gonna give an inch!
[DING!]
{ This was, by far, the most competitive match of the night. It was, for the most part, a war of wills and attrition that nearly went the full thirty minute time limit! It didnât seem that way early on, as Rowan methodically trying to beat Caroline to a pulp with her trademark surgical striking, including a chain of European uppercuts followed by repeated Muay Thai strikes to the head. Rowan was very slow and sadistic, trying to psychologically torment that young Machado by applying a single-arm trap neckbreaker -- but that only got a two-count. Rowan then proceeded to chop block Caroline at her knees, sending her flying backwards and onto the deck; Rowan shot Caroline into the corner before hitting her with a yakuza kick. She immediately follows it up with a swinging neckbreak and another two-count! Rowan gives Blue Shoes the death stare as she pulls Caroline up -- only to send her back down with a hurracanrana, followed by a series of mounted punches. As MacDonnough begins using closed fists, Blue Shoes threatens an immediate DQ at the count of five, but Rowan goes for a quick pin to avoid that...only to get another two-count! At the 12:30 mark, we find Caroline to be battered and bruised -- but still defiant as ever -- as she takes Rowanâs shots...one after another, after another! After Machado winds up having her neck snapped courtesy of Rowanâs Burning Hatred, the Hall of Famerâs eyes light up as she cackles with glee. She then points to the crowd with an aura of contempt, unaware that Caroline has managed to pull herself back to a vertical base! Before Rowan could know what hit her, Caroline would flip her head over heels WITH A REVERSE HURRACANRANA!!! }Vasco Dias: What the--?! That was--!!
Terri Morasco: JJâs ShellShocker!! The crowd LOVES it!!!
Vasco Dias: Youâre not kiddinâ, Terri!
{ Something -- or someone -- mustâve energized Caroline, because she immediately began the long and arduous task of wearing Rowan down through her hybrid of mixed martial arts and technical skill! Caroline proceeded to hit Rowan with several repeated strikes to the midsection and the noggin, eventually following it up with a pair of successive judo throws that sent the Hall of Famer flying towards the corner! Machado quickly countered a wild haymaker attempt by placing Rowanâs left arm in a hammerlock before taking her down to the mat! Caroline quickly transitions into a single armbar, with Blue Shoes checking for a submission! To Rowanâs credit, she manages to squirm her way out of the danger -- but the Brazilian quickly counters any lost momentum she mightâve had with a trio of waistlock suplexes, the third of which was transitioned into a pin for a count of two! Caroline doesnât fuck around, going back on the attack with a reverse chinlock. Although simple and basic, itâs a very effective hold as Caroline has Rowan paralyzed in the center of the ring! Caroline, sensing Rowan was about to counter, puller her back up and down again with a T-bone exploder suplex! Rowan ends up crumpled against the corner as Caroline hits her with a dropkick while seated, thenn hooks both legs for a cover and scoring another two-count! Caroline wasnât done yet, for as we hit the 21:30 mark, she hit Rowan with her biggest move of the match so far...PLASTERING her with her trademark spinning tornado DDT! }Terri Morasco: Seis espigĂ”es de pacote!
Vasco Dias: Tell ya what, Terri..I think the kidâs for real!
{ Caroline goes for the cover⊠}1âŠ!
2âŠ!!
THREE--NOPE!!!
{ Caroline sighs as Blue Shoes holds up the two fingers, and itâs that one moment of hesitation that gets Rowan riled up! Machado tried to go for signature RKO, but Rowan counters with a swift kick to the gut! Machado winds up on both knees, which is a prime moment for MacDonnough, who nails the first-year Brazilian with the dreaded Balorâs Gaze superkick! Rowan then goes for the pin⊠}1âŠ!
2âŠ!
THREEEE--DAMMIT!!!
{ Rowan gives Blue Shoes another death glare as he holds up the dreaded two-finger peace sign! Rowan then proceeded to hit Caroline with a SECOND Balorâs Gaze superkick! }Vasco Dias: Welp, thatâs it!
{ Rowan goes for the cover and hooks the leg⊠}1âŠ!
2âŠ!!
THREEEEEEEAWWWWWWWâŠ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
{ The crowd explodes as Caroline got the shoulder up at the last millisecond! }Terri Morasco: Not quite, Vasco!
Vasco Dias: I donât like the look in Rowanâs eyes!
Terri Morasco: I donât think she expected Caroline to go this far! I think Rowan mightâve underestimated her!
{ Rowan pulls Caroline in, hoping to put the Brazilian away with the Lifeâs Finale combination! Unfortunately...Caroline sprung back to life, COUNTERING the move with her signature RKO! }Vasco Dias: WHOA!!!
Terri Morasco: Ace de serviço! The Service Ace!!
{ Caroline, exhausted but still spirited, turns Rowan over and pins⊠}1âŠ!
2âŠ!!
THREEEEE--DâAWW, SON OF A BITCH!!!!
{ Blue Shoes holds up the two fingers once more! Caroline grits her teeth and closes her eyes, pondering the next move sheâll make! Yet Rowan is able to capitalize on the meditative moment by attempting to set Caroline up for the one-handed electric chair drive dubbed STORM OF THE MORRIGAN! Rowan doesnât hesitate and applies the last-ditch finisher on Caroline, scoring the three-count at 26:25! }Terri Morasco: Wow!!!
Vasco Dias: I donât care who won or lost that match! All jokinâ aside...we just saw the birth of a brand-new star in IWF!!
------------------------------------
SEGMENT------------------------------------
{ The lights in the arena dim to a dull grey as smoke emits from the ramp way. Envy by Ice Nine Kills hits the pa as the lights in the arena turn bright white. As the song really kicks in the lights die down to a normal level to reveal Shelly Diamond standing on the ramp posing like her ex husband with her arms outstretched. She throws her arms down as pyro erupts behind her before strutting her way toward the ring to the beat of the music. Shelly walks up the steps then climbs into the ring. Her music slowly fades away as Shelly looks toward the hard camera. }Shelly Diamond: Tara Fenix! You either get out here and name a time and place for us to finish what we started or I will tear this whole goddamn arena apart looking for you!
{Every light throughout the arena flickers out while the crowd gives a premature cheer; when the beginning of âThe Eagle Flies Aloneâ begins to play, a blue spotlight comes in at the same sequence and is shining at the curtain which gets the crowd riled up further. The cheers that The Phoenix Queen is receiving from the audience is outweighing anyone in the crowd that opposes her. The sound of the fog machines can be heard going off heavily as the stage soon fills with fog. The lights in the arena are coming back up creating a blue hue and just as the chorus kicks in, the crowd lets out a huge roar when they finally see Tara Fenix emerge from behind the curtain.}I, I go my own way!
I swim against the stream!
(Forever) I will fight the powers that be!
{Tara is standing at the top of the stage wearing one of her designed jackets, and the hood pulled over her head. Her music slowly fades as Tara Fenix raises a microphone to her lips. Tara clicked her tongue several times before finally answering.}Tara Fenix: You are just desperate to get yourself hurt⊠But you couldnât have come at a better time because I did have this idea, this fruition, come to my mind when you started calling me out.
{Tara paced back and forth but her eyes were locked on Shelly.}Tara Fenix: I want to take that belt off of you⊠Not to hurt you, Shelly. No, not at all. Just to take back whatâs mine and take back my throne. I think it kills you that despite you wearing that belt, nobody is lining up to fight you⊠They are lining up to fight me. But you know what, I do want this to be done. I want this to be over with, so weâre going to go ahead and set a date: after I WIN Heiress to the Throne. After Diamonds Are Forever. The same event that signified my return to the squared circle is where I will be crowned the HEIRESS TO THE THRONE! And once I am crowned the undisputed best in the division again you will know when your reign comes to an end.
{Tara lowers the microphone. Shelly looks on and shakes her head.}Shelly Diamond: You want to know something, Tara? Youâre right. You are 100% right. It absolutely pisses me off that Iâm walking around with the World Championship over my shoulder and the only person anyone wants to talk about is you!
{ Shelly takes a step toward the ropes. }Shelly Diamond: Iâve faced and beaten damn near every woman on this roster! Including one of the greatest to ever lace them up, Eternity! Iâm still undefeated in this ring! Iâm the Womenâs World Champion and the only person I hear people talking about is Tara Fenix. That does piss me off. It pisses me off a lot. Because I earned my place at the top of the card, I earned this title, I worked my ass off to be where Iâm at! And itâs time people start respecting me as one of the best in the world today!
{ Shelly pauses for cheers but the crowd seems to be weighing their options. }Shelly Diamond: So you want to wait until after the Heiress to the Throne is complete to face me? Thatâs fine. Iâm patient. But for your sake? I hope you win.
{Tara cocked her head to the side and gave that traditional smirk. She inaudibly said âawwâ before raising the microphone back to her lips.}Tara Fenix: Pobre chica. I must say⊠I relish in the fact that you are never going to be on my level, and the fact that you called Eternity one of the best? Ever?
{Tara snickered.}Tara Fenix: She is average at best and had a little luck with lightning when she defeated me. It will not happen again! And⊠it hasnât. I have done what no one has done, and I defeated two hall of famers when I called out three, in a handicap match. You barely scraped by one. So Heiress to the Throne is mine⊠and then⊠so are you.
{Tara takes a couple steps back, and drops the mic which causes it to static. Shelly glares daggers at Tara who returns them in kind. }------------------------------------
HEIRESS TO THE THRONE/IMPERIAL DIAMOND CHAMPIONSHIP MATCHThe winner gets the title and points for HTTT
writing challenge: Music Shuffle
1. Write a promo based on a piece of music that the Staff will select for you.
Music: enemy by imagine dragons
Xiuhua "Dizzie" Zhou vs Virginia
------------------------------------
The lights around the stage shift to several shades of blue as âCome For Meâ by New Years Day begins to be heard on the sound system.Terri Morasco: This is it! The Main Event of Friday Night Sacrifice!
Vasco Dias: Thatâs right, and itâs a match that I have been looking forward too ever since Survival of the Fittest
The crowd erupt into cheers as Xiuhua âDizzieâ Zhou makes her way out, all smiles as she gauges the fans and gives a nod of appreciation before making her way down to the ring. She hops up to the apron, wiping her feet and taking a second to bow her head on the top rope. In time with the music, she raises her head, showcasing that smirk of hers once again, hopping into the ring with ease right after. She then steps to the center, jokingly posing with an arrogant point to herself, tongue playfully out. Dizzie of course canât hold in the laugh and lets it loose before flipping the switch, looking all business as her music fades to silence.Terri Morasco: Is that so?
Vasco Dias: Of course it is! Two competitors who are just as comfortable in the ring as they are in the cage. We finally get to see The Diamond Empress showcase her skills against someone with the same MMA background.
Terri Morasco: What about Fiona?
Vasco Dias: Fiona doesnât count.
The lights in the arena start to flicker as the intro to âBitch Better Have My Moneyâ hits the speakers. Smoke pours out onto the stage as Virginia Stepanov steps out. She walks to the head of the ramp, looking around for a moment before she shoots a high front kick into the air to show off and then makes a finger gun with three punctuated âshotsâ towards the crowd at the appropriate time in the song.Terri Morasco: Well, your bias withstanding this should prove an interesting match up. Both of these women come from similar backgrounds and similar builds.
Vasco Dias: Thatâs right. Virginia has the height and reach advantage, but she canât match Dizzie for strength.
She struts down the ramp, mouth moving to sing along to her entrance as her head bobs along with the song. When she gets to the ring she jumps onto the apron, hanging onto the rope and leaning out towards the crowd, throwing a finger gun with another three shots before she steps through the ropes. She slips her coat off and hangs it in the corner.Allison Valance: The following contest is your Main Event of the Evening and it is for the Imperial Diamond Championship! Introducing first, the challenger from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania⊠Dizzie!
The crowd cheers as Virginia slips the belt off her waist and hands it over to the official. He holds the belt out to her and she places a hand on the center plate, caressing it before nodding and moving into the corner to limber up.
Allison Valance: Her opponent, she is the Imperial Diamond Champion! From New York City, Virginia Stepanov!
Virginia receives a more mixed reaction from the crowd as the ref presents the belt to Dizzie. She looks down at the title before nodding her head. The ref moves to the center of the Ring to display the belt to the crowd before handing it to Allison to take out of the ring.
Both Virginia and Dizzie are in their corners, looking across at each other as they limber up and the ref signals for the bell. At the high pitched sound, both ladies move slowly two the center of the ring, lifting their arms up in guard positions. Dizzie takes the offense, moving in with a few jabs at Virginia. Virginia slides backwards, lashing out with her feet a few times but Dizzie keeps the pressure on her until Virginia ends up leaning through the ropes to catch a break, earning a few boos in the process.
Vasco Dias: We can see Dizzie trying to close the gap here, and Virginia wanting space. Both competitors are trying to leverage their ring position to suit their strengths.
Terri Morasco: It is interesting to see Virginia being so wary in the opening moments of a match. You have to wonder if Dizzie has gotten through her trademark confidence?
Dizzie backs off at the rope break and Virginia comes back into the ring, rolling her shoulders. But then she snaps into action, throwing a Superkick at Dizzie. The attempt to surprise her opponent seems to fail her as Dizzie steps to the side, grabbing hold of the exposed leg. She rolls through it, bringing them both onto the floor to try and apply a heel hook to Virginia. Dizzie doesnât manage to complete the lock on Virginiaâs leg which allows her to drive her heel into Dizzieâs stomach in a desperation kick to break up the hold.Terri Morasco: A quick series of offensive moves seeâs Dizzie bringing it to the champ.
Vasco Dias: Virginia showing some desperation. It makes sense since it was a Heel hook that damaged her ankle.
Virginia scoots back from the Dizzie as the other rises to her feet. Virginia stays on the matt however, propping herself up and beckoning Dizzie to approach her.Terri Morasco: A strange situation to see. Virginia has a BJJ background and has been known for her mat work, but I feel that is a situation that is far more advantageous for Dizzie.
Dizzie approaches but Virginia lunges forward, snapping her foot out into a side kick that connects with Dizzieâs thigh and staggers her. Virginia rolls forward, wrapping her arms around Dizzieâs head and pulling her down onto the mat with a vicious snapmare.
Vasco Dias: A feint! Quick thinking by the Champion to bait her opponent!
Virginia is quick to her feet, running to bounce off the ropes and nail Dizzie in the back of the head with a shining wizard. Virginia rolls to her feet after the blow, running to the other side of the ring. She bounces off the ropes, looking like she wants to hit Dizzie with a Punt kick, but she is back to her feet, catching Virginia and powering her into the mat with a devastating powerslam. She goes for a cover, but Virginia kicks out at a little over 1.Terri Morasco: Dizzie powering back hard after the surprise assault!
Dizzie rolls back to her feet, lifting Virginia into the air only to power her back into the mat with a Gutwrench suplex that shakes the ring beneath them. She reaches down to grab hold of Virginia again, but Virginia grabs hold of her arm, pulling her down as she snaps her legs around in an attempt to lock in a triangle choke. Dizzie scrambles to avoid the move, hammering Virginia with a forearm to the face. This breaks Virginiaâs hold, but she responds with a forearm strike of her own. The two of them exchange blows with Dizzie on top of Virginia. Between each strike they scramble to try and grab a hold of the other woman to try and turn the contest into a grapple to no avail.Vasco Dias: This is the type of aggressiveness I was expecting from these two when the match began.
Terri Morasco: Both are giving as good as they get, but I think if we were to call it on points right now that Dizzie would be ahead.
Vasco Dias: But points are counted in IWF
The fighting spills into the ropes, causing the official to step in to break the two of them apart. So into the fight are they that it isnât until the 4 count when the ref manages to bodily separate the two of them.Terri Morasco: Things are certainly getting heated in this ring.
Vasco Dias: You can see how deep into the zone both of them are.
Once separated they both climb back to their feet before rushing again at each other. Virginia tosses a kick at Dizzie, who expertly blocks it before stepping in to tie up Virginia in a collar and elbow tie up. The two of them strain against each other before Dizzie spins Virginia around to grab her around the waist for one of the many potential moves she has from that hold. Virginia seems ready for it though, going with the motion and planting her feet, allowing her to catch Dizzie on the chin with a mule kick! Dizzie is knocked backwards and onto the mat. The Ref goes to check on her, ensuring she is able to continue as Virginia twirls her hips a bit before turning to the crowd to slap her ass with a smirk.
Vasco Dias: A KMA! That kick almost knocked Dizzie right out of her boots!
As Dizzie nods to the ref, slowly getting to her feet Virginia crouches down, her eyes on Dizzie. She motions to the other woman, gesturing for her to get up as the noise of the crowd starts to rise.
Terri Morasco: Virginia is calling her shot! She wants to end it right here. This is it!
Virginia does rush forward, leaping into the air to deliver the devastating kick to the head that she is known for.
Vasco Dias: Here it is! And Still Terri the Final ri⊠VIA CON DIOS!
But Dizzieâs instincts kick in, causing her to dive forward. Her arms slip under Virginiaâs, the two of them rolling across the mat until Dizzie rises to her feet with Virginia on her back, controlling her legs as she stretches the other woman in a Gory Special!
Terri Morasco: I canât believe it! This is unreal!
The two women struggle, Dizzie holding onto Virginiaâs arms with one of her own, fighting against her as she works to hook her legs around her thighs. Dizzie surges around the mat, looking to fully lock in and stretch her opponents mack.
Vasco Dias: I donât know that I have ever seen anything like that! What athleticism!
But Dizzie is having trouble locking it in fully. She shakes her head, jumping up and releasing Virginiaâs arms to go into a slap, but her leg catches on the mat. When she comes down her leg is underneath her, rolling to one side as she lets out a loud scream of pain.
Terri Morasco: Oh my godâŠ
Vasco Dias: Folks, hold on for a moment.
Both women hit the mat hard, rolling apart. The ref moves over to Dizzie, checking in on her. She shakes her head, crawling to the ropes to try and pull herself to her feet but her leg buckles beneath her and sends her crashing to the mat with another cry of pain. She argues with the official, and still shakes her head yelling at him as he calls for the bell.
Allison Valance: This match has been ruled a no contest!
Terri Morasco: Watching the replay of that is brutal. It looks like her ankle caught and folded under her when she lands. I hope that Dizzie is OK.
Vasco Dias: This is certainly not a situation that either wanted.
Medical staff are converging on Dizzie, still arguing that she can continue the match. Virginia looks around, screaming out a very audible âFuckâ at the announcement. The official moves away from Dizzie as the medical staff tend to her. He retrieves the title and hands it to a fuming Virginia. Instead of slipping it around her waist she tosses it over one shoulder as she paces in the ring. When the ref goes to lift her arm, she snatches it away.
Allison Valance: Due to the match being called and stillâŠ
Allison is interrupted as Virginia snatches the mic from her hands, tossing it down to the floor below. She takes her belt, rolling out of the ring and kicking a chair that formerly housed a med staff across the floor as JC Keaton runs from the back to check in on Dizzie while the med staff have slung her arms over their shoulders.
Terri Morasco: Thatâs for certain. Both women are clearly distressed about this.
Vasco Dias: Dizzie is distressed. Virginia looks about ready to spit nails.
The cameras focusing on Dizzie as JC steps in, replacing one of the medical staff to support Dizzie as she limps up the ramp, holding her injured leg in the air. The Audience climbs to their feet, applauding as they slowly make their way towards the back.
Vasco Dias: A terrible way to end what was shaping up to be a great match.
Terri Morasco: Terrible is right. We send our hopes to Dizzie and will keep everyone updated on her status. For now though we are out of time. Thank you and good night.
Well howdy there pardner.