IWF Presents - Odyssey, 11th June 2024

[Roberto Verona]

June 11th, 2024
Osaka-jo Hall, Osaka, Japan

DEADLINES:

ROLEPLAYS (1 RP LIMIT): 1AM EST Tuesday
ON AIR SEGMENT APPROVAL: 1AM EST Monday
ON AIR SEGMENT AND MATCH SUBMISSION: 6PM EST Tuesday

STANDARDISED RP WORD LIMITS PER COMPETITOR (Unless Otherwise Stated)
REGULAR BOOKINGS: 2000 
REGULAR TAG TEAM MATCH: 1500 (Combined Team RP: 3000)
GLADIATOR CHAMPIONSHIP: 1000 (Unlimited Character Development)
INVICTUS CHAMPIONSHIP: 3000
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP: 4000
COLISEUM BOOKINGS:  500 (Unlimited Character Development)

POINTS OF INTEREST

- How will IWF Men’s World champion Warren Harper respond to his victory?
- What will Jennie Fenix have to say after her huge reveal and her successful title defence?
- After the shock betrayal of Shea O’Hara, what will happen next in the war between the Murder and the Birds of Prey as Heiress to the Throne begins?
- What will Serenity Holmes have to share after her huge victory at Night of the Immortals?
- Denied his shot of glory on a technicality, how will the Joker in the Pack Allen Chaney respond as he enters the Heir to the Throne to forge another path in the absence of Roberto Verona’s signature on his contract.
- How will J-TV respond to Logan Sky’s big win?
- What will the Mad Dog have to say on his debut?




NOTE: Coliseum is a televised pre-show to showcase the IWF Performance Centre's developmental talent from its Gladiators Division alongside appearances from main roster characters and to allow handlers to develop new character ideas under less pressure. Each show will be posted as a summarised report of results and matches will happen regardless of whether talent submits a roleplay. All matches on Coliseum are legitimate contests, matches between main roster talent and Gladiators are NOT judged any differently to matches between Gladiators only.
Word Limit: 500 Word Promo (Unlimited Additional Character Development).


SINGLES MATCH
Mark Wright vs Ozura

SINGLES MATCH
Yusumi Mitsu vs Amber Vogel

MAIN EVENT
SINGLES MATCH
Nate Harris vs Dark Tiger


NOTE: Bookings against members of the Gladiator's Division are designed to provide handlers with an opportunity to build up their momentum and further develop their characters. Failure to submit a roleplay will result in a defeat unless you inform staff before the roleplay deadline. If neither party submits anything, the match will be removed and rescheduled.

SEGMENT
2000 Word Limit
Participant: Warren Harper
The New World Champion Addresses His Historic Back To Back Victories at Night of The Immortals 

HTTT MIXED TAG MATCH
Rini Ishikawa & Masao Akiyama vs Cyrus Daniels & Vivienne Rodgers 

SEGMENT
1500 Word Limit
Serenity Holmes addresses her victory at Night of the Immortals.

HTTT MIXED TAG MATCH
Kasey Vex & Nick Knight vs April Madrox & Dean Harper

SEGMENT
1500 Word Limit
Jason “J-TV” Hathaway shares his views ahead of his first title defence after Immortals.

HTTT MIXED TAG MATCH
Charlotte Shimizu & Pax Stormcrow vs Abigail & Tytus Rost

SEGMENT
1500 Word Limit
Logan Sky speaks to Willy Carter ahead of his title match.

HTTT MIXED TAG MATCH
Natasha Walker & Allen Chaney vs The Black Widow & Madjinn

IWF GLADIATOR CHAMPIONSHIP
SINGLES MATCH
Logan Sky vs. Jason "J-TV" Hathaway (c)

[Cliff Cook]

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SINGLES MATCH
Mark Wright vs. Ozura
-------------------------------

Mark Wright is introduced first followed by Ozura.

The match kicks off right away at the sound of the bell, both competitors eager for a fight. Both wrestlers circle each other, looking for an opening. Mark initiates with a quick lunge, attempting a single-leg takedown. Ozura counters by using his strength to block the move, pushing Mark back. Ozura then charges forward, attempting a powerful clothesline. Mark ducks just in time, rebounding off the ropes to deliver a swift dropkick to Ozura’s chest, staggering him.

Regaining his composure, Ozura grabs Mark in a bear hug, lifting him off the ground. Mark struggles, but manages to break free by delivering elbow strikes to Ozura’s head. The crowd erupts as Mark, now back on his feet, executes a series of rapid-fire kicks, aiming at Ozura’s legs to destabilize him. Ozura, though wobbly, catches one of Mark’s kicks and counters with a thunderous spinebuster, shaking the ring.

The match between Mark Wright and Ozura is an epic battle of skill versus strength, agility versus power. Both wrestlers push themselves to the limit, leaving the audience in awe of their athleticism and determination. Mark’s strategic thinking and maneuvers ultimately secure his hard-fought victory against the formidable Ozura.

Winner at 6:37: Mark Wright

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SINGLES MATCH
Yusumi Mitsu vs. Amber Vogel
-------------------------------

The bell rings, and both wrestlers circle each other, sizing up their opponent. Yusumi Mitsu extends a hand for a traditional lock-up, but Amber Vogel, full of confidence, instead opts for a powerful shove, sending Yusumi back a few steps.

Yusumi uses her speed to dodge Amber’s initial power strikes, countering with quick kicks to Amber’s legs. The crowd is electrified as Yusumi performs a series of arm drags and finishes the sequence with a standing dropkick, which knocks Amber into the ropes. Amber quickly recovers, catching Yusumi in a bear hug when she attempts another high-flying move, demonstrating her superior strength.

Amber takes control with her power-based offense, slamming Yusumi into the mat with a series of suplexes. She attempts an early pinfall after a devastating spinebuster, but Yusumi kicks out at two. Amber’s frustration begins to show as Yusumi slips out of a powerbomb attempt, countering with a hurricanrana.

The crowd is on the edge of their seats as both wrestlers struggle to their feet. Yusumi attempts another Dragon Suplex, and this time she successfully executes it. She covers Amber, but Amber manages to kick out at the last possible second, showcasing her resilience.

Determined to end the match, Yusumi climbs to the top rope, signaling for her finishing move, a high-flying 450 Splash. Just as she leaps, Amber rolls out of the way, and Yusumi crashes hard onto the mat. Sensing her opportunity, Amber lifts Yusumi for a brutal powerbomb, but Yusumi counters with a Triple Kick.

Yusumi lands the move perfectly and hooks Amber’sleg for the pin. The referee counts one, two, and three.


Winner at 8:54: Yusumi Mitsu

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SINGLES MATCH
Nate Harris vs. Dark Tiger
-------------------------------

The bell rang, and both wrestlers circled each other, sizing up their opponent. Nate, with his quick reflexes, made the first move, attempting a single-leg takedown. Dark Tiger, however, stood firm, using his immense strength to block the attempt and counter with a powerful elbow strike to Nate's back. The crowd roared as Nate stumbled but quickly regained his footing, showing his resilience.

As the match progressed, Nate shifted his strategy, using his speed to stay out of Dark Tiger's reach. He executed a series of rapid-fire kicks and punches, aiming to wear down the larger opponent. Dark Tiger, although slower, demonstrated remarkable endurance, absorbing the blows and waiting for an opportunity to strike. That moment came when Nate attempted a high-flying move off the ropes. Dark Tiger caught him mid-air and slammed him to the mat with a thunderous powerbomb. The audience gasped, but Nate, showing his tenacity, managed to kick out just before the three-count.


By the third round, both wrestlers were visibly exhausted, yet neither showed any sign of backing down. Nate utilized his technical skills, locking Dark Tiger in a series of submission holds, trying to sap his remaining strength. Dark Tiger roared in pain but refused to submit, using his raw power to break free each time. The tide turned when Nate, attempting a crossbody, was caught and driven into the mat with a devastating spinebuster. The impact echoed through the arena, and Dark Tiger quickly went for the pin. To the shock of everyone, Nate kicked out once more, drawing cheers and chants from the fans.

In the final moments of the match, both wrestlers dug deep for their last reserves of energy. Nate, sensing an opportunity, climbed to the top rope for his signature finishing move, Flexing for the ‘Gram going to the pin shortly after.

Winner at 11:58: Nate Harris

[Cliff Cook]

June 11th, 2024
Osaka-jo Hall, Osaka, Japan

—---------------------------------------------
SHOW OPEN
—---------------------------------------------

{Heart of a Champion by Hollywood Undead plays as we are brought the opening intro to IWF Odyssey! The camera pans around the jam-packed arena and the screaming fans before we get a shot of the commentary booth Rayne and Iyo Kenshin!}

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SEGMENT
2000 Word Limit
Participant: Warren Harper
The New World Champion Addresses His Historic Back To Back Victories at Night of The Immortals
-------------------------------

{The signature Odyssey opening transitions to a tight focus on the commentary booth.}

Iyo Kenshin: Kon'nichiwa, minasan, IWF Odyssey e yōkoso! Rekishi-tekina `Night of the Immortals'-go no saisho no shō o Nihon no Ōsaka kara nama chūkei shimasu! Kon'ya, sekai senshuken no jiki chōsen-sha o kimeru IWF dokusen tōnamento ga hajimaru!

Rayne: We have an absolutely huge show here for you tonight, including a marquee match for the new Gladiator Championship between Hathaway and Sky in the main event, plus we are scheduled to hear from the new Invictus Champion, Serenity Holmes. More than that, tonight we officially kick off the men’s and women’s Heir and Heiress tournaments to decide respective challengers for the current Women’s World Champion Jennie Fenix, and the new Men’s World Champion, Warren Harper!

Iyo Kenshin: Indeed! We are scheduled to hear from Warren Harper shortly…

Rayne: But first let’s take you back to Warren’s history making performance at the first ever two night Immortals event…

{A video package showing the closing sequences of the Men’s World Championship matches across both nights set to ‘Immortal’ by Eve To Adam, plays.}

{Night of the Immortals XI - Night One: 5/26/24

Dean fires off a nasty strike to Warren’s knee. Warren hits an Overhead Kick to Dean’s knee. Dean screams. Warren picks Dean up and gets him locked into the submission move he calls Conversion Therapy, putting all the pressure on Dean’s knee. Dean has nowhere to go and the pain is much worse than thought as the ref seems to signal for the medical team but doesn’t stop the match.}

Vasco Dias: Tap out! Tap out! Save yourself!

Terri Morasco: Harper has nowhere to go, he’s trapped and I don’t think he can survive much longer!

Vasco Dias: I’m afraid I agree with you.

{Dean shuts his eyes tight and TAPS OUT, his first time in his career. The ref signals the bell. Warren doesn’t let go right away until-}

Alison Valance: The WINNER AND YOUR NEW WORLD CHAMPION WARREN HARPER!

{Warren drops the hold blinking as confetti rains from the ceiling and the ref quickly hands Warren the world title belt as "Done With Everything” by Line So Thin plays loudly over the PA. Warren looks back at the mat where medical is already grabbing Dean and dragging him out of the ring. The last shot of Night of the Immortals Night One is Warren Harper holding the gold close to his chest while Dean is checked upon, his legs seemingly having given out completely. Dean had absolutely made Warren earn his historic submission victory.}

{ Night of the Immortals XI - Night Two: 6/2/24

Cannin wastes no time, he drags Warren by the leg into the middle of the ring and lifts him back up again, beginning to hook him for another Cannin Ending. He tries to plant it but with all the energy he has left, Warren drives Caleb back into a corner, taking the wind out of him. Caleb keeps the hold locked in, forcing Harper to drive into his midriff once again. }

Terri Morasco: Caleb was so close, Harper is trying to fight back into this.

Vasco Dias: This next moment could be pivotal.

{ Harper thrusts forward one final time and Caleb eventually lets go, unable to handle the wind being driven out of him any longer. Harper staggers away as Cannin limps out of the corner to get some quite literal breathing space… but as he does so Warren catches him as his legs seem to be giving way and plants Cannin with a Trauma Response! Cannin hits the deck and Harper slumps on top of him… 1…. 2….. 3!!!! Warren Harper retains his IWF Men’s World Championship as both men lay in an exhausted pile barely able to stand. }

Alison Valance: And here is your winner…. AND STILL IWF Men’s World Champion, Warrrrrreeeeennnn Haaaaaaaarrrrpppeeeerrrrr!

Vasco Dias: Warren has done it! He conquered his romantic demon and managed to fend off a very spirited Caleb Cannin!

Terri Morasco: Caleb was moments away from the gold, he has no shame here, but the finer margins just about favoured Harper!

{ Warren slowly begins to stir and quickly hugs the let to his chest as the official drapes it next to him. Medical officials rush down to check on both men as Caleb’s ribs really took a beating at the end there and he’s struggling to breathe comfortably. Harper turns and gives a respectful nod to Caleb, briefly grabbing his hand in a show of respect for the fight he brought before lifting himself up by the ropes. He holds the belt up high as he finally is able to drink in the moment. }

Terri Morasco: I hope Caleb is ok, he doesn’t look great here.

Vasco Dias: He’s in capable hands, but the belt is in the hands of Warren Harper.

Terri Morasco: He can now finally rest easy and enjoy his moment – but who will be coming next for a shot at the crown with the Heir to the Throne ready to begin?

{When we come back to the present, the lights change, flickering purple briefly, in time with the opening piano, quickly stopping as the drums kick in. When the lyrics of “Legacy” by Motionless In White begin, the lights settle on a softer, more stable golden yellow. The crowd are divided for Warren Harper as he emerges from behind the curtains wearing a simple white leather jacket over a brand new scarlet and black “Better Men (S)Lay Their Demons” T-Shirt, with the World Championship secured around his waist and a smirk across his face. He is also wearing blue denim jeans and black shoes.

He then heads towards the ring, head held high and proud, confident, solely focused on his own business in that ring. At the edge of the ring, he closes his eyes and takes a breath before jumping up onto the apron, walking along it and climbing the turnbuckle. He takes a moment to unhook his Championship from around his waist.

He then perches himself on the corner, cradling the title in his lap, head bowed and eyes closed. He takes a series of slow deep breaths, relaxing himself in a brief meditation almost. Warren finally raises his head, no longer looking down on anything, but ahead. He slowly opens his eyes and relaxes, confidently raising the title in his right hand, smiling again. He drapes the title back across his lap.

The music slowly fades away and the lights return to normal as he is tossed a microphone from a stagehand and addresses the respectful Japanese crowd from his corner perch, elevated above the ring and therefore also the rest of his contemporaries. He was indisputably The Better Man now.}

Warren Harper: The whole world doubted me, as always. The whole world was against me, as always. There were doubts after I was screwed out of the World Championship in the Extinction Event. There were doubts when Dean knocked me out in a Last Man Standing Match. There were doubts when I survived the Roulette Match. Hell, there were even doubts after I did the unimaginable and made my beloved husband, Dean tap out like my favourite little bitch on Night One.

{Warren smirks, confident and self assured, a rarity most certainly.}

Warren Harper: Everyone and their mother doubted whether I truly had what it would take to expose the fragility of the Blake empire in Rome, and I won’t lie to you, for a time even I doubted myself. I thought I was too close to the situation, too in love with Dean Harper to do what was absolutely necessary and give Dean exactly what he needed, a break and a chance to step back from the responsibility of representing this company at the most elite level, like he has done for so many years now. But then my Sweetness did for me what he has always done for me. He believed in me. He pushed me to be better than I ever could be. He endured every mood swing, every raised voice, and every slammed door and he stuck by me, one of only three people who have seen me at my absolute worst and still wanted nothing but the best for me.

{Warren pauses and takes a slow and deeply considered breath.}

Warren Harper: Oftentimes I have thought I was unworthy of that kind of loyalty, that kind of love, that kind of belief but with the help of my therapist I’m starting to appreciate that the voices in my head that have always held me back and kept me grounded and anchored to the dependable touchstones in my life like Dean, Shea and Vivienne may not have my best interests at heart and may in fact offer only the illusion of safety and comfort. Once I processed that, things became so much easier to deal with, and the anxieties I wrestled into submission right alongside my dearly beloved on Night One no longer burdened me on Night Two.

{Warren visibly breathed easier as he settled into his new role and responsibility as the brand new face of the company. Even feeling brave enough now to reposition his World Championship over his shoulder instead of across his lap.}

Warren Harper: And so, I mean absolutely no disrespect to Caleb Cannin when I say this but dealing with my future on Night Two was a whole hell of a lot easier than enduring my past on Night One. And so now here I am brought back from either extreme to a central and more balanced present. I am now once again World Champion in this company. I am now a two time World Champion, like my father before me - may he rot in Hell - and as such I recognise the necessity of being better than I have ever been at any other point in my professional wrestling career.

{Warren grinned.}

Warren Harper: I have always been hampered by the weight of expectation, I have always been told that I’ll never measure up to the legacy my bastard father left behind, and for years now I let myself believe it. I relegated myself to extended breaks and unplanned absences. I tried to pretend it didn’t bother me that men in this company who were so clearly beneath me in skill level and natural pedigree amassed so much more in their careers than I ever did, like other two time Champions James Gilmore and Cable Arcane. I tried to sooth the itch of needing to be the very best by marrying the greatness that I thought was well beyond me, and for a while Dean Harper really was an exquisite balm in that respect, but the higher his star rose, the further I felt left behind and the more I felt unworthy of his absolute love and devotion. Maybe I still am, I don’t know, but what I do know is that I need to be better.

{Another considered breath.}

Warren Harper: I need to be better than each of the eight men who begin vying to be the very best tonight. My career renaissance didn’t conclude when I became the first man in history to win and successfully defend the World Championship at the biggest Immortals event ever held, no, it just began. As they say the first defense is always the hardest and I know not everyone is going to expect to coast right by me with a fancy big budget entrance, like Cannin expected to and when I showed him how wrong he was to take me lightly, he took his ball and decided he needed a little break. Funny how that works, isn’t it?

{Warren shook his head, slightly bemused.}

Warren Harper: I hope whoever wins this year’s tournament and comes for the bullseye in my chest next has at least a little more respect for me as a legitimate World Champion than that, because I’m not about to abdicate my throne without a fight. As hard as I’ve worked to earn my rightful place at the peak of this industry, you bet I’ll work twice as hard to keep it, because whilst you all fight to be the best, I’ll fight to be even better…

-------------------------------
HTTT MIXED TAG MATCH
Rini Ishikawa & Masao Akiyama vs Cyrus Daniels & Vivienne Rodgers
-------------------------------

Alison Valance: The following tag team match is for Hier and Heiress to the throne points!

Rayne: The first time we’ve ever done tag teams for these tournaments it will be interesting to see how this goes.

Iyo Kenshin: I am here to cheer RinSao!

{"Man In The Box" by Like A Storm hits. Cyrus Daniels walks to the ring with a purpose and a length of chain draped around his neck. Cyrus looks out at the sea of free people around the arena with a noticeable look of disdain. Cyrus uses the ropes to pull himself onto the apron and step over the ropes and into the ring. Cyrus walks to the centre of the ring, looking at the crowd but he seems disinterested in engaging with them on any level, he just wants the match to start as he removes the chain and hands it off to a stagehand.

The lights in the ring drop, leaving gold and green spotlights on the stage and ramp as the sounds of rain and thunder hits. The lights in the arena pulse with similar colors as the opening of "Win Win" by Set It Off feat. Scene Queen begins as the crowd gets on their feet and the lights dim down. When the vocals begin strobe lights begin to flash off and on making for an awesome effect. Pyro explodes from the stage as sparks begins to rain down from the top of the tron screen as out steps Vivienne Rodgers on a single knee encouraging the crowd to get even louder to make the arena shake. Vivienne looks out at the crowd before popping up to her feet letting out a loud primal war scream. Vivienne begins her trek to the ring while doing her best to hype the crowd. Vivienne takes a walk around ringside before sliding into the ring. Once in she heads to the closest turnbuckle and goes to the top rope before throwing her arms out into the air as the lights come back to normal. She hops down and backs into said corner ready for her match to get underway.}

Alison Valance: First down to the ring, Cyrus Daniels and Vivienne Rodgers.

Rayne: Cyrus and Vivienne are certainly positioning themselves like they are the power couple to beat here.

Iyo Kenshin: Everyone thinks their love is unbeatable.

{"Test of faith" Start to play the Shamisen playing slow as the Tron lights up and Masao steps out pausing as he waits for the beat to drop hands raising to the sky as he walks toward the ring , slamming is hand on the steps as he climbs them to step between the ropes and shedding the robe as he climbs a turnbuckle before gesturing at the crowd before dropping off to prepare.

The lights dim in the area, and the Imperialtron slowly lights to show a dancing figurine turning slowly in a music box to the soft chimes of a simple melody and the sound of bells tolling in rhythm with the music. After ten seconds, the music suddenly picks up, full of synth. Rini virtually bounces into view, her overcoat swirling around her as she almost runs from one side of the stage to the other, waving with unbridled enthusiasm. Rini keeps beaming smiles and waving all the way down the ramp. She wipes her feet quickly on the outside and climbs between the ropes.
Once inside the ring, she strikes a dramatic pose, her left hand on her hip and her right hand forming a sideways V next to her eye, still grinning. She holds the pose for a few beats and then goes to her corner.}

Alison Valance: Second down to the ring, Masao Akiyama and Rini Ishikawa!

Iyo Kenshin: Woo!

Rayne: Have some shame.

{As soon as the match starts it is clear that Rini is much more the technical wrestler compared to Charlie but as Vivienne herself is a more technical wrestler the two seem to be a little more evenly matched, Rini ends up pivoting into a flying monkey, though it is clear that her ground game is her strength. When Masao and Cyrus enter the ring it is also equally matched with two powerhouses throwing all they have into the ring. Maso and Rini take turns hurling the other at Viv/Cyrus depending on who is legal. For their part, Cyrus and Viv are hitting as hard as possible leaving little to be held in reserve.}

{Cyrus hits Maso with THE PRICE OF FREEDOM going to the pin while Vivienne has pulled Rini into a fight outside the ring
1
2
3!}

Alison Valance: Your winners and gaining the first points for the Heir and Heiress are Vivienne Rodgers and Cyrus Daniels!

-------------------------------
SEGMENT
1500 Word Limit
Unfinished Business
-------------------------------

{ Inside the arena, we see the footsteps of a woman walking down the corridor. While we don't see her face just yet, the figure's gait is well-pronounced and purposeful in nature. As we hear the sound of a bubble popping, the camera pans upward to reveal Caroline Machado chewing a piece of bubblegum and carrying a plush Pikachu souvenir she bought from a local Super Potato shop. }

Caroline Machado: Hi!!!

{ Wearing a cutesy rainbow shirt and blue jeans, Caroline walks into a vacant office suite and plunks herself down at the desk. She takes a deep breath and bows her head, entering into a meditative state. She thought about her travels and her own life, among other things. She felt relieved to be back on Imperial programming, having been away for what seemed like an eternity. The meditation was broken, however, when James Gilmore knocked on the partially-open doorway. }

James Gilmore: Well! Ain't you a sight for sore eyes!

Caroline Machado: Hehehe...long time, huh! I just got finished taping the reality TV game show Colesseum -- but no spoiling! Hehehehe!!!

James Gilmore: Whoa, ain't that somethin'?! What brings you back to this l'il nuthouse, huh?!

{ Caroline took a deep breath. }

Caroline Machado: Negócios inacabados.

{ Pause. JJ raised both brows as Caroline pulled out a stock picture of Jennie Fenix. }

Caroline Machado: Unfinished business.

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SEGMENT
1500 Word Limit
Serenity Holmes addresses her victory at Night of the Immortals.
-------------------------------

{ In Osaka, Japan, IWF had come to the land of the Rising Sun to host the official fall-out episode from Night of the Immortals 2024. The company has selected the Osaka-Jo Hall to host the first Tuesday Night Oddysey episode, which has been answering questions and questioning answers. One of the most recent feedback regarding Night of the Immortals was the shocking upset victory in the co-main event on Night Two—the IWF Invictus Championship match involving three competitors: Nick Knight, Masao Akiyama, and Serenity Holmes. To everyone's shock, the match ended with Serenity Holmes winning the IWF Invictus Championship. The show's live broadcast turns to the commentary section, where Iyo Kenshin and Rayne are seated at the announcer's booth. }

Iyo Kenshin: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to Tuesday Night Oddysey! Our new IWF Invictus Champion has arrived, and we're awaiting her presence inside the legendary Osaka-Jo Hall! Serenity Holmes defeated Masao Akiyama and Nick Knight without pinning the championship, but she fulfilled her deal with our CEO, Roberto Verona. Her shocking, upset victory has sent the IWF in a spiral and has turned heads everywhere!

Rayne: Serenity didn't have a choice! She was in a bind, and Roberto Verona was the one who fully supported her. Look at her now; she's the Invictus Champion after appearing short on many occasions. It's safe to say Serenity earned the right to brag, but at what cost?

Iyo Kenshin: Rayne, this all happened because she made a deal in Roberto's office and stood by as Allen got attacked by The Legion of Verona. She knew exactly what she was doing, and Serenity was offered a championship match without earning it. She screwed over Masao and pulled off the robbery against Nick to be under the control of a near-evil CEO.

Rayne: Okay, let's cut to Alison Valance before you lose your job too!

{ The camera transitions to the main angle, showcasing the ring surrounded by Japanese fans. Alison Valiance stands in the center, holding a microphone under her chin. }

Alison Valance: Ladies and gentlemen, introducing at this time, she is your NEW IWF Invictus Champion, "22nd Century Girl" Serenity Holmes!

{ "Synthetic Sympathy" by Trash Boat ensnares the venue's interior with loud music blasting. The Japanese audience begins to boo uncharacteristically to their nature the moment the lights start dancing in a multi-colored display. Stepping out from the backstage area and walking out to stand center stage is Serenity Holmes with the IWF Invictus Championship belt draped over her right shoulder. She stands there confidently posing and sporting a high-end outfit, unlike her usual teenage grunge look. Serenity walks down the narrow decline pathway to the ring in her black high heels, a one-piece suit of black and red, and her hindered ponytail tail sporting luxury accessories and jewelry beyond the average person's reach. }

Iyo Kenshin: Living the life of a champion must come with perks, especially on Roberto's payroll. Like it or not, she's enjoying it to the fullest.

{ Serenity walked around the ring smiling at the fans who weren't positive for her. She struts slowly, clutching the belt over her shoulder until she climbs the steel steps and receives a microphone on the way up. Serenity walks along the apron and then moves between the ropes to enter the ring. Alison has abandoned the grounds, Serenity paces around with her music coming to an end, and the audience does their best to boo her. }

Rayne: The entirety of this moment was because Serenity Holmes did it at Night of the Immortals. Roberto didn't hold her hand during the match; she won it alone.

{ She holds the microphone in her right hand and looks around at the audience with a smile of confidence. Serenity walks around the ring and takes a moment to survey her crowd. With the camera directly on her, she points upwards to cue production to have a spotlight shine on her directly while everything else is blanketed in darkness. }

Iyo Kenshin: To make it even better, she has to ask for the spotlight.

Rayne: Shh, our champion is talking!

Serenity Holmes: Night of the Immortals. The two-night special of IWF became poetic justice. Justice for the one woman wronged in IWF since the get-go. From the moment I entered the company, I've had to deal with crap after crap. Tara Fenix being a pain in my ass, the IWF Women's Division did everything to stop me, including Shea O'Hara, Charlotte Shimizu, The Murder, and every other bitch in that locker room who had an involvement in my career. YET! Who was the one that came out on top out of all of them?! Me! Serenity Holmes, who defeated Masao Akiyama and Nick Knight to become your NEW IWF Invictus Champion!

{ She taps the belt on her shoulder. }

Serenity Holmes: Am I going to enjoy this moment? You're damn right! I earned this and I deserve it! I don't need you all to make the stupid chant because I know it before any of you did! Any of the women's locker room did! I defeated two men who could rip them a part and why? Let's address the elephant in the room.

{ Serenity decides to sit down on the mat with her legs crossed and the Invictus Championship belt resting before her. }

Serenity Holmes: I made the choice to align myself with our Chief Executive Officer, Roberto Verona. No, I didn't make the usual blinded choice like every other girl was. I got into trouble, I didn't have anywhere else to go and I made a decision that came out to be the best decision for my IWF career. Who would be stupid enough to ignore that? When the CEO of the top wrestling promotion believes in you, you wouldn't disrespect him either. In other words, while everyone else was jealous, he wasn't. The man with true power chose me and I damn sure accepted the deal in blood.

{ She holds out her palm that shows the scar from slicing her hand when she signed the contract. }

Serenity Holmes: This IWF Invictus Championship. Serenity Holmes. I am the one who is above you all. I am with the most powerful man, the most destructive Legion and I hold this belt that many has failed to acquire in their lifetimes. Whether Nick Knight, Stephen Terrella, Masao Akiyama or any other person on this roster thinks they can take this from me, they are welcome to try.

{ Serenity stands on her feet. }

Serenity Holmes: Whether you like it not, reality is here. I am reality. You all made your jokes, talked your smack but in the end, I reign supreme and I don't intend to drop this power. For the first time in my life, I am in control and I am not changing that! The 22nd Century Girl is the future and the future is now present!

{ "Synthetic Sympathy" by Trash Boat replays from the venue's interior surround systems. The spotlight remains on Serenity Holmes who reaches down for her championship belt, stares at her nameplate on the main plate and kisses the belt before raising it high in the air. }

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HTTT MIXED TAG MATCH
Kasey Vex & Nick Knight vs April Madrox & Dean Harper
-------------------------------

Alison Valance: The following tag team match is for Hier and Heiress to the throne points!

Rayne: The second tag match of the evening. The first match was pretty impressive but we have two former champions in this match so I expect bloodshed.

Iyo Kenshin: Expect or hope, Rayne?

{The sweet, melodic voice of Poppy streams through the speakers around the arena, layered over a quiet backbeat. But with the final whisper of the intro, the drumbeat kicks in and the lights in the arena begin flashing erratically. It’s enough to distract the crowd as a singular figure seemingly appears out of nowhere at the top of the entrance, and as the vocals picked up again a spotlight shone down on the figure, drawing the attention of the crowd back to the entrance stage. Long pink hair to the waist sways beneath a white fox skull mask obscuring the face of the competitor. Behind her stands a man, almost towering over her with his long, lanky frame. The woman slowly begins stalking down the aisle, her dark-eyed gaze behind the mask darting back and forth to the crowd on either side of her but makes no move to acknowledge their outstretched hands to her, with the taller man sauntering behind her with a smirk across his face. As she approaches the ring and saunters around to the side, she leaps nimbly up to the apron and crouches low, her head turning slowly across the front row of fans before she turns to slide underneath the bottom rope and crawls her way to the center of the ring. She crouches there for another moment before smoothly rising to her feet and slowly removing the mask, revealing the face of Kasey Vex. But rather than the normally chipper expression she usually wears, her face is strangely devoid of any emotion as her brown eyes sweep the crowd once more before she stalks over to her corner and drops into a crouch, back against the turnbuckle and her arms draped over the second ropes. Outside of the ring, Edwyn Merrick keeps a watchful eye on her, arms folded across his chest and the same sly smirk still present on his face.}

{Ecstasy Of Gold starts to play over the sound system as Nick Knight steps onto the entrance ramp. The wide-brimmed hat, trench coat, and plague doctor’s mask of ‘The Savior of Professional Wrestling’ have been stripped away leaving only the plain black leather pants and snakeskin boots of ‘The Slayer of Gods.’

Knight slowly makes his way towards the ring dragging the Invictus Championship belt across the arena floor. Once he reaches ringside, he gives the ten pounds of gold a wild toss into the ring before rolling in behind it. The camera zooms in on the belt as Nick picks it up showing off the dents, dings, and scratches that cover the gold plates.}

Alison Valance: First down to the ring, Kasey Vex and Nick Knight!

Rayne: Kasey Vex hasn’t lost a match yet and Nick Knight has a light under him to take his problem with Roberto straight to the top.

Iyo Kenshin: But will it be enough?

{The lights throughout the arena flicker and go black, with several of the lights around the entrance seeming to overload, sending sparks flying down the stage. One by one, the screens flicker back to life showing a harvest moon hanging in a cloudy sky as the sound of fluttering wings and screaming crows fills the building. The screens soon swarm with the silhouettes of these birds, drowning out the moon and filling the arena once more in darkness as the opening strings of “The Devil’s Gonna Come” by Raphael Lake & Royal Baggs begins to play.}

“The Broken and Fallen, dangled souls been sent to burn,

Nowadays they been calling, telling me soon it’s gonna be my turn…”

{A dark red spotlight hits the stage, revealing April standing with her hands on hips.}

“Now I know… the Devil’s gonna come when the sun goes down…”

{April makes her way down to the ring, quickly climbing the ring steps and wiping her feet on the apron before stepping into the ring and walking with purpose to the middle of the ring, raising a hand into the air and clenching it into a fist as the house lights return to normal.

The crowd grow silent as the lights go out as the beginning of Freak Flag gets louder the stage area starts to fill with smoke. Suddenly, and abruptly as the drums and guitars kick in a pyro explodes around the stage.}

“We're taught to be like them

Taught to know our place

We kept the pace but we're done pretending

We'll fall blindly through the fairy tale endings"

{Pyro explodes either side of the rampway as Dean Harper appears through the red tinted smoke. He stands with his arms outstretched, fists balled up soaking in the reaction from the crowd before walking down to the ring slowly. He jumps up onto the apron before springing on the bottom rope into the ring. Once in the center of the ring, he spreads his arms wide as he soaks in the red flashing lights before lifting his head sharply, kicking back the hood to show his face, nodding in rhythm to the music as he slowly breaks into a wicked grin. After a few moments, he turns and settles into his corner, tossing his hood and jacket to ringside.}

Alison Valance: Second down to the ring, April Madrox and Dean Harper!

Rayne: Both April and Dean aimed their shots.

Iyo Kenshin: Sure, but let's not act like Kesey and Nicki are not top of the game as well.

{As soon as the match starts it is clear that Knight is going to allow Vex into the ring. He and Dean are throwing everything at each other. Every time April gets a tag in, Knight tags himself back in. Leaving both April and Kasey annoyed. Knight goes for Dean’s knee a few times but Dean seems to suffer through the pain to keep doing his high-flying bullshit.}

{Dean hits Knight with SCREAMING FROM THE SKY going to the pin
1
2
3!}

Alison Valance: Your winners and gaining the points for the Hier and Heiress are April Madrox and Dean Harper!


-------------------------------
SEGMENT
1500 Word Limit
Jason “J-TV” Hathaway shares his views ahead of his first title defence after Immortals.
-------------------------------

The Odyssey feed cuts to a static 'J-TV' logo over a black background, as a male voiceover plays over the speaker system.

Male Voiceover: "We interrupt this broadcast to bring you a very special message from 'J-TV'."

The feed now cuts to a large wooden podium set up somewhere in the backstage area, placed in front of a backdrop featuring a collage of photographs from Jason Hathaway's victory over Madjinn several weeks ago. The words 'TELEVISION CHAMPION' are emblazoned in wide, gold lettering along the top. From offscreen, Robbie The Camera Guy's voice is heard, speaking professionally and quietly.

Robbie: "Ladies and Gentlemen, please rise for your reigning, defending Television champion, Jason Hathaway."

A smattering of canned applause plays, and Hail to The Chief briefly begins to play before the hook of Sferic Waves cuts in. Obnoxious flashbulb effects litter the scene as a decidedly unpleased looking J-TV steps out from behind the backdrop wearing a suit, sunglasses, and carrying two championship belts; On his left shoulder is the TV Championship, and on the right is the newly minted IWF Gladiator Championship.

Jason steps up onto the dais and stands behind the podium, raising his hand and waving to his adoring, and imaginary, audience.

Jason 'J-TV' Hathaway: "Thank you! Thank you everyone! I appreciate you all being here! No, really! Thank you! I love you too!"

Robbie slides in from offscreen and holds up a large white sign reading 'QUIET' in bold and black lettering. The canned cheers and applause cut out suddenly, and Jason taps the microphone in front of him, before hoisting both belts up higher onto his shoulders.

Jason 'J-TV' Hathaway: First of all, I'd like to offer an apology to the live Osaka crowd tonight. I really did want to do this out there, in front of you, my adoring Japanese fans... But frankly, I'm already lowering myself by competing with Logan Sky in front of you tonight, so I think that's more than enough. Besides...

Jason pivots to look at the backdrop behind him.

Jason 'J-TV' Hathaway: "I couldn't fit this incredible work of art in the ring without blocking the view of a lot of you, and I think it's a very important part of the message I'm here to convey to you, to the IWF staff, and especially to whatever numpty gave the order to shove this piece of trash into my arms a few hours ago when I arrived here tonight."

Jason hoists up the new Gladiator Championship, sneering down at the shiny new belt as the camera zooms in on it.

Jason 'J-TV' Hathaway: "See, I have kind of a bone to pick tonight, and I want all of you watching at home to follow along with me, we're gonna do a little roleplaying here. I want you to imagine that you just landed your dream job, yeah? You're excited, you're ready to knock it out of the park. Your first few months? You're doing amazing! So good, in fact..."

The camera slowly pans back over to the Television Championship

Jason 'J-TV' Hathaway: "That you land that huge promotion everybody was talking about, the one you figured you had no shot at just because you were the fresh meat. But you did it! You proved everyone wrong and accomplished two dreams in the span of only one year! Then..."

Jason leans forward on the podium, his elbows resting on the edges as he takes off his sunglasses and neatly folds them, setting them down as he bites the inside of his cheek angrily.

Jason 'J-TV' Hathaway: "Then you get a phone call. They tell you that new job title you just got? Well, they've changed their mind. It's not the dream job you wanted anymore. Now, your new title is 'The Best of The Worst.' You'd be pretty pissed, right? Hell, I'll be vulnerable and honest with you all, I was very angry when I received the news that they were rebranding the Television Title. My Title."

Jason angrily slaps the TV belt, knocking the podium out of place as his temper flares dramatically.

Jason 'J-TV' Hathaway: "You don't get to take this from me because you want to start handing out gold stars to the 'not quites' and the 'almost theres'! You want to make a participation trophy championship for the Gladiator's division? That's fine by me! Let me tell you something though, O captain, my captain. I didn't win this belt to be your brass ring for the developmental kiddos! Tell me something, who's the man I beat to win this title? Was he a Gladiator? No, I don't think he was. In fact, I remember him being a pretty damned bad dude!

There's a long swath of silence as Hathaway simmers, but eventually he straightens himself out, stepping back into place on the dais. He reaches over and grabs the podium, pulling it back in front of him as a smug little grin grows on his face.

Jason 'J-TV' Hathaway: "But then I took a moment to myself. I found a nice, cozy chair. Turned on the TV, and I realized that maybe, just maybe, I can make this work out just fine. You want to hand me this 'Gladiator Championship'? You wanna strike my Television Title from your books? You can go ahead and do that, but don't you think for a second that you're getting this belt back. The TV Title doesn't die until I say so, or until somebody beats me for it."

J-TV looks to both belts and brings up a hand to stroke at his stubble as if he was just now coming up with the most brilliant of ideas. A grand scheme, something that only the true visionaries of the world could even dream of envisioning

Jason 'J-TV' Hathaway: "As far as I'm concerned, this makes me both the TV and Gladiator's Champion. You know, it's a bit wordy, but 'TV Gladiator Champion' doesn't sound the worst, does it?"

With that, Jason slides the belts off of his shoulders and places them down on the podium, looking off to the side as Robbie mutters something incomprehensible to him from off screen. Hathaway nods, and Robbie jumps up onto the dais and tugs the podium away and out of sight, along with the belts.

Jason 'J-TV' Hathaway: "Now that I've pissed off my bosses, it's time to talk about tonight's business. Logan Sky. I've poked a lot of fun at you in the past, I won't deny. You're an old dog in a world full of new tricks, and I'll be honest with you, I'm impressed your wheels haven't fallen off, especially with all the lugnuts missing. You know, you really showed out at Night of The Immortals. Proved me wrong about a few things, I'm man enough to say it. Unfortunately...

J-TV tilts his head, trying to find the right words.

Jason 'J-TV Hathaway: Any chance you had of beating me went away when the powers that be decided to pull the rug out from under me. See, I'll admit I was on top of the world a week ago, maybe a little complacent, careless. But now? Now I'm angry. Now, I've been undermined, subjugated, and quite possibly bamboozled. You can ask Madjinn, I am a very dangerous person to upset."

Jason clasps his hands together, trying to sound as respectful as is possible while also telling his opponent it would be best he not even bother showing up.

Jason 'J-TV' Hathaway: Roberto Verona wants to turn me into his glass ceiling? Logan, buddy, do not try to shatter me, because I'm tempered as all hell. So long as the belt is in my possession, doesn't matter what it's called, there's not a damned soul on this roster who can take it from me. In fact, fuck glass. I'm a goddamned wall of Antimatter, and I will absolutely disintegrate every sorry son of a bitch unlucky enough to be called a 'Gladiator' until they have no choice but to retire the whole division and beg the Antimatter Man himself to defend his gold against the big boys again."

The camera follows Hathaway as he steps off of the platform and walks over to the podium to retrieve his titles, once more lifting them up onto his shoulders before sliding his shades back on.

Jason 'J-TV' Hathaway: But I know you. You're a vet, stubborn and immovable as Cliff Cook at a hair stylist. You'll be here tonight, and you're going to make the mistake of standing across from me. That's your problem, Sky. You think you've been through it all, that there's nothing you haven't seen. Maybe that's true, for the most part. Tonight, though? Tonight, you're in territory you've never touched before.

Tonight, you're on...

J. T. V.

-------------------------------

HTTT MIXED TAG MATCH

Charlotte Shimizu & Pax Stormcrow vs Abigail & Tytus Rost

-------------------------------

Alison Valance: The following tag team match is for Hier and Heiress to the throne points!

Rayne: The third tag match of the evening. We have been seeing everyone trying to gain their points as soon as possible.

Iyo Kenshin: This one has a lot of anger behind it for some reason.

{ The lights in the arena dim at the opening drums and guitar. Abigail walks alone out under a soft white spotlight to a mixed reaction. The lights flash sand yellow and soft orange in time with the rhythm. The lyrics of ‘Hallelujah (I’m Not Dead)’ by Citizen Soldier accompany her walk down the ramp. She clenches her jaw before pausing in the middle of the ramp, and looking heavenward. She flings her arms out either side of her offering herself up to a Lord she knew to be no longer there.

When there was no salvation, she cracks her neck slightly and continues her journey down the ramp under her own power. She walked up the steps, not to heaven, but into the ring. Ready to defend her position in life, as fiercely as she once defended her faith. Under the spotlight, in the middle of the ring, she drops to her knees and lets out a rebellious yell heavenward as she throws her head back. She breathes heavily, as she focuses on the challenge ahead. The music slowly fades and the lights return to normal as she slips off her waistcoat, ready to compete.

The crowd turns its attention toward the entrance area as a lion roar echoes throughout the arena. They continue to watch as the drumbeat of "Tired of Winning" begins and from behind the curtain steps the hulking figure of Tytus Rost, his face like carved granite as he stares with cold eyes down to the ring.

Rost’s upper lip curls in a sneer as he begins to move with purpose down the ramp. Making it to the ring, Tytus stands on the floor for a beat before leaping up to the apron in a show of agility for a man his size. He wipes his boots on the outside ring apron before stepping in through the ropes and walks with purpose to the center of the ring.}

Alison Valance: First down to the ring, Abigail and Tytus Rost!

Rayne: Abigail is a former world champion and Tytus is a big guy.

Iyo Kenshin: This won't be an easy match that is for sure.

{The tron fills with lightning as static comes over the speakers. Slowly each current of electricity on the tron fizzles out until the word 'Skoden' (And the logo for Prairie Fiber remains in the lower right corner) At the sight of the unofficial war cry of Pax appears on the tron the audience roars into chears as the opening rythmn of Stadium Pow wow thrums through the air.

As the singers kick into the song he pumps his fist in the air along with them before bounding down the ramp as the bass drops. He slaps hands with fans along the ramp as he makes his way down to the ring and slides under the bottom rope.

He makes a circle around the ring, arms pumping to work the crowd up before he jumps onto the second turnbuckle, lifting the hood of his coat back and looking up to the ceiling as he basks in the cheers from the crowd. He jumps down from the turnbuckle, shrugging out of his coat and handing it off to the staff before moving into his corner to crouch down in preperation for the match to begin

Before the music starts, the tron lights to show a red sun slowly rising over a broad expanse of ocean. The image flies apart into a flurry of red feathers and pink flower petals as the music hits. When the introductory chorus drops, Charlotte strides out, right fist pumping into the air in rhythm with the words “Oh yeah”.

She circles the outside of the ring after the intro chorus and the first verse, pausing briefly at each side to work the crowd before climbing nimbly up to the apron before the last line of the verse. On the apron, she takes a running start from one corner towards the ringpost opposite. At the last second, she jumps up to the second turnbuckle and flips over the top rope, landing feet together and hands raised just as the chorus hits again. She again circles, pumping her fist high in time with the pounding guitar and screaming vocals of MYTH & ROID.

As the chorus comes to its end, Charlotte stands in the center of the squared circle and bows from her waist to the audience, her hands clasped at her chest. To her fading music, she strides purposefully to her corner and starts shaking out her hands and rolling her neck in preparation for the coming match.

Alison Valance: Second down to the ring, Charlotte Shimizu & Pax Stormcrow!

Rayne: Pax is also a former world champion and Charlotte won the Iron Maiden on her first year.

Iyo Kenshin: You’re not wrong.

{ As soon as the match starts its clear Pax and Charlotte seem to have better team work than Abigail and Tytus. Tytus goes to try to destroy Pax but the fact they have been fighting each other so much lately Pax seems to have some skill with recovering some of the harder moves. Charlotte is doing her best to keep from being grounded as Abigail is showing some of her well-known temper and hard-hitting moves.}

{Charlotte hits Abigail with EASTERN REDBIRD going to the pin

1

2

3!}

Alison Valance: Your winners and gaining the points for the Hier and Heiress are Charlotte Shimizu & Pax Stormcrow!

{Charlotte walks slowly up the ramp, smiling slightly and giving some love to the cheering crowd. At the top, she turns to face the crowd and, with her hands clasped at her chest, she bows at her waist to the crowd before leaving.}

-------------------------------

SEGMENT

1500 Word Limit

Logan Sky speaks to Willy Carter ahead of his title match.

-------------------------------

{ We find Willy Carter with a camera crew and making a move towards the men’s locker room. }

Willy Carter: IWF faithful I am here at the locker rooms hoping that I can get a moment of time with the number one contender to the new Gladiator’s Championship. Let’s go check inside.

{ Willy moves to push open the door before a hand reaches off camera and taps him on the shoulder. }

Willy Carter: What is it?

Sound Tech: Well… It’s a locker room Willy. People could be changing.

Willy Carter: You right. Hmm, I got it.

{ He knocks on the door and opens it a crack. }

Willy Carter: Camera crew coming in! Cover up, ain’t no one trying to see that!

{ The group waits for a beat before pushing the door open. There are some glimpses of people in towels, but the camera operator is good at their job, keeping the focus where it belongs for this particular interview. 

Logan Sky is standing in a corner, using a resistance band to limber up before his big match. His face has already been painted up and he glances over towards the crew as they approach. }

Logan Sky: Hey Willy, kinda busy right now.

Willy Carter: We just wanted some quick words with you before your big match. You've been a rising star lately. All of the fans and a lot of your co-workers have been impressed by your fighting spirit and the heart that you have shown.

Logan Sky: I don’t know about all that. I think there are plenty of people here that have just as much heart and spirit and I have. I don’t think I’m special. In fact, I know I’m not. The one advantage that I got is experience in this business.

Willy Carter: Well I think a lot of the reason why you’ve impressed so much is because of that experience.

{ Logan pauses in his work outs and turns to stare at Willy, the effect leaving just the painted side of his face in profile. }

Logan Sky: You calling me old, youngster?

Willy Carter: Err, what I meant to say was…

{ Logan burst out in a laugh and shakes his head before clapping Willy on the shoulder. }

Logan Sky: I’m just joshin ya Willy. Course I’m old.

{ Willy breathes a noticeable sigh of relief as he readies his microphone. }

Willy Carter: Well, more that your experiences have not always been great. You’ve been fairly open about mistakes and missteps you’ve made. To come back from all of that.. It’s inspiring, Logan.

Logan Sky: I don’t like to think of myself that way. If my story can help someone, I’m glad to hear it. But thinking I was untouchable was what got me into this mess. Ya want to know what’s going through my head? I said that Osaka Jo Hall was the sight of my biggest match before joining. It was also the location of my greatest Tragedy. In this very building I blew out my knee for the second time. It laid me up for months and it sent me down a dark and terrible path and led to me ruining everything that I cared for. So I got quite a bit of somber reflection to think about as I get ready too. But I am resolved to not be that man anymore. I put him to rest. And I mean to prove it when I step through those curtains tonight.

Willy Carter: I’m sure you will Logan. We’ll let you get back to it. The Machine keeps on trucking folks. Back to you Rayne.

-------------------------------

HTTT MIXED TAG MATCH

Natasha Walker & Allen Chaney vs The Black Widow & Madjinn

-------------------------------

{The Richard Pryor quote followed by the piano intro of ‘Shimmy Shimmy Ya’ plays and Allen emerges from the curtain.}

‘Ooh, baby, I like it raw x4’

{Allen stops and looks around the crowd with a smirk until there is a change in attitude. He leans down to slam his fists on the ramp before popping up to release what can only be described as a roar.}

'Shimmy shimmy ya, shimmy yam, shimmy yay

Gimme the mic so I can take it away

Off on a natural charge, bon voyage

Yeah, from the home of the Dodgers, Brooklyn squad’

{Allen walks down the ramp, stopping every few steps to talk to fans about how his opponent has no clue what they're in for or how they smell like baked milk or how he saw them changing backstage and one of their testicles is comically bigger than the other.}

‘Wu-Tang Killer Bees on a swarm

Rain on ya college ass, disco dorm

For you to even touch my skill

You gotta have the one killer Bee and he ain't gonna kill now

Chop that down, pass it all around

Lyrics get hard, quick cement to the ground

For any MC in any 52 states

I get psycho killer, Norman Bates'

{Allen marches up the ring steps and enters the ring, giving the referee a friendly pat on the back before going to his corner and sitting down focused but also kind of vibing to his own music.}

Rayne: I don't know how Chaney is still standing after the hell he went through at Night of the Immortals, but apparently a box of jelly donuts and a two liter of Mountain Dew must do wonders for recovery.

Iyo Kenshin: Allen Chaney is as tough as they come, Rayne. In my estimation, winning a grueling Joker In The Pack match further solidified that fact. He has momentum. With that case in hand, and one eye undoubtedly on the World Championship, he will now cast the other toward becoming the Heir to the Throne. His journey begins with the help of our next entrant

{"Riot" starts to roll the Distinctive drums into the arena as the lights dim, before stepping out the back in her outfit comes Natasha Walker on time with the Scream in the track the thin "webbing" on her outfit lit up by UV as she bops to the beat and moves down the Ramp, taking a moment to hop to sit on the top rope Facing the crowd in a corner before draping backwards slowly to hang herself back and the use her extraordinary flexibility to pitch back onto her feet with a smile.}

Iyo Kenshin: Natasha Walker looks more than ready for her debut in this tournament, Rayne. The "Techno Tsuchigumo" is receiving a heroine's welcome in Osaka, having cut her teeth in this beautiful land of the Rising Sun.

Rayne: She has the homefield advantage, I'll give you that. Does that do more harm than help though? That's a ton of pressure put on you to come back here and perform, piled on top of the pressure of trying to get off to a strong start in this tournament. Two people will end this night taking an L, but she'll be the only one to do it in front of people that watched her break into this business if she's one.

Iyo Kenshin: Rayne, pressure, or not, this woman is equipped to handle it. She is a star in every sense of the word. I think the biggest question for both Allen and Natasha is how they will come together as a team against not just an established team, but two-thirds of the World Tag Team Champions.

{The lights are dimmed as the "Pumped Up Kicks" by 3Teeth begins to play. Shrouded in the darkness from the low-level lighting, Madjinn, Stephen Terrella and Portia slowly walk out from behind the curtain. The Black Widow crawls out from behind the curtain soon after, stopping on the cusp of the ramp. Stephen and Portia are to her right, making out with each other in a very over-the-top public display of affection. On the Widow's left, Madjinn is hitting a vape. Looking around the arena, Brandy stays on her knees, arms extended, and arches her back in a way that her upper body falls backwards. Forty seconds into the song, just before the lyrics start, Brandy thrusts her torso upward with a jolt. Stephen and Portia look towards the ring in unison with the Black Widow and Madjinn. The Mad Prince offers the Black Widow a hit off his vape, and then the foursome begins to make their way to the ring.}

Alison Valance: Approaching the ring, weighing in at a total combined weight of three hundred nineteen pounds... they are the reigning IWF World Tag Team Champions! They are the Savage Kingdom!

{The Savage Kingdom continues toward the ring, with Madjinn and the Black Widow in the front. Madjinn stops a few more times to blow his vape back into the faces of different fans. Terrella and Portia trail close behind, verbally arguing with some of the audience members in attendance. Cvetkova builds a little speed in her walk as she nears the bottom of the ramp and dives underneath the bottom rope. Madjinn slides beneath the bottom rope behind her. Pushing herself up onto her hands and knees, The Black Widow crawls across the ring, head tilted as she flashes a sinister smile at the Comedian and Natasha. Portia and Stephen Terrella take up a position on the outside of the ring, in the Savage Kingdom corner. Madjinn stands in the middle of the ring as the Black Widow slinks backward, ending up between his legs. The Mad Prince puts a hand beneath her chin, bringing her to her feet, where they exchange saliva.}

Iyo Kenshin: Savage Kingdom has turned out in full force tonight, I see. As dangerous as Madjinn and the Black Widow are, Chaney and Walker will need to be equally aware of the presence of Stephen Terrella and Portia on the outside.

Rayne: You would manage Chaney and Walker straight to their doom, Iyo. You have eyes going all over the place tonight. When you're actually in that ring though, trust me, your eyes need to be on the person you're facing. Take your eyes off either Madjinn or the Black Widow for a split second and your night can end real fast.

Iyo Kenshin: I am well aware, Rayne.

{The ladies take the ring to start as the men step out. The referee for this contest, Tommy Knocker, signals for the opening bell.}

Ding!

{The two women circle each other at the start. The Black Widow licks her lips as the audience chants "Tash-A" very loudly. With a look of determination on her face, Walker raises her arms for a tie-up; but Cvetkova bails out of the ring by dropping down and rolling beneath the bottom rope. The Black Widow takes a walk around the outside of the ring as the crowd boos. The official starts a count on Cvetkova while Natasha calls for her to come back inside and wrestle. After letting the count reach eight, the Black Widow decides to come back inside. The two women circle each other again; with the energy of Natasha acting as a stark contrast to the stalking-pace of the Black Widow. The Black Widow exits the ring again, in the same manner she did before, frustrating Natasha. The "Techno Tsuchigumo" goes out after the Black Widow this time. Cvetkova picks up speed as she tries to evade Natasha on the outside. Cvetkova passes Terrella, with Natasha hot on her heels... until Terrella steps in front of Natasha. Green as she may be, Walker recognizes what Cvetkova is trying to do; but by that point the Black Widow has taken the ring on another side. Natasha tries to roll back in; however, the Black Widow is there to greet her with a series of stomps. Natasha tries to fight her way up from underneath. The Black Widow goes to Walker's eyes though, digging her fingers into her sockets to slow that. Cvetkova with a hairmare, taking Walker over, followed up by a kick to the spine. Natasha grimaces, and the Black Widow continues her attack with a bodyscissors-chinlock combo, bending the extremely flexible Natasha into a very unnatural position! The Widow pulls back tight, putting as much pressure as she is able on the chin and neck of Walker. Natasha refuses to quit in front of the Japanese crowd, though! She holds on for a solid minute in the submission. Finally, she is able to use her legs to almost bridge back, forcing the Black Widow's shoulders onto the canvas. The referee delays a bit, taking the long way around to get into position for a count... but Cvetkova kicks out at two!}

{The Mistress of Mayhem throws a headbutt Walker's way as the two women get up. Cvetkova takes hold of Walker's arm, sending her into a corner. The Black Widow charges; but is met with two boots to the face by Natasha. Walker wraps her arms around the Widow's waist, turns, then dumps Cvetkova on the back of her with a German Suplex in the middle of the ring. Madjinn and Chaney are both reaching for tags at this point. Walker makes a tag to Chaney first, bringing both men in under the match rules. Chaney comes in with a mission! He takes Madjinn down with a Lou Thesz Press, followed up by some heavy closed fists! Chaney shows off some impressive athleticism with a Standing Somersault Leg Drop! The crowd is firmly behind the Comedian. Allen runs the ropes, landing on Madjinn's chest with MAKIN PANCAKES! Chaney tries for a cover, but Madjinn kicks out well before the three! Chaney tries for "Go To Branson" on the Mad Prince, but Madjinn rakes Chaney's eyes, enabling the Mad Prince to escape. Blinded, Allen throws some wild punches; but Madjinn bobs and weaves to avoid any direct contact with them before taking Allen off his feet with a leg sweep. Leaping into the air, Madjinn comes down with a Jumping Double Foot Stomp right in Allen's breadbasket! Madjinn taunts the crowd, taking a few bows as they rain boos down on him. He turns around to find Allen getting back up. Madjinn stings Allen with a few shoot kicks. The Mad Prince forces Allen back into a neutral corner, and then whips him across the squared circle into the opposite corner. Chaney staggers out and the Mad Prince drives him back in with a Shotgun Front Dropkick to the chest! Madjinn goes for a cover, looking to pick up the win. Tommy Knocker slides into position for a count... but Chaney kicks out at two! }

Iyo Kenshin: The Mad Prince wanted that one; but Allen Chaney has plenty of fight left in him!

Rayne: Madjinn has plenty more in his arsenal, too.

Iyo Kenshin: Madjinn taking Chaney by the arm now, throwing a few light kicks to Allen's head that are simply meant to insult the Comedian. There is no force behind those blows, they're insults.

{Madjinn leads Chaney back to a corner by the arm, and Madjinn backs up the turnbuckles. With Chaney's arm in hand, the Mad Prince starts walking across the top rope like a tight rope. Chaney yanks his own arm though, landing Madjinn straddling the top rope! The crowd delights in the Mad Prince's anguish! As Madjinn sits uncomfortably on his perch, Chaney bounces the top rope up and down with rapid speed. The rest of Savage Kingdom vehemently protest! With Madjinn still on the ropes, Chaney backs up and delivers a superkick directly beneath Madjinn's chin to knock him to the outside! Cvetkova races around the ring to check on Madjinn. Terrella attempts to buy Madjinn some time and distract Chaney by taking the apron. The two very large men jaw at each other, and Chaney dares Terrella to take a swing by holding his chin out. Knowing he can't strike, Terrella spits directly in Chaney's face. Chaney wipes the spit from his face, then goes right at Terrella with a huge right hand to knock Stephen off the apron! Terrella is enraged and moves to go back inside before Portia steps in front of him to hold him back. Natasha rallies the crowd louder behind Allen as Chaney draws an imaginary line on the canvas with his foot and motions for Terrella to come inside. It's Cvetkova that jumps on Allen's back from behind, however! He flips her forward, landing her on the canvas! Natasha tries to enter the ring to help out her partner; but Tommy Knocker holds her back. While Allen tries to get his bearings, the Black Widow spews her black mist right in Chaney's eyes before bailing out!}

{Walker tries to point out what happened to the official; but her pleas fall on deaf ears. Natasha calls out for Allen, trying to let her voice be his guide as he struggles with his sight. Madjinn is up on the outside. Knowing she needs to buy her partner some time, Natasha takes a bold risk and abandons her corner to take the Mad Prince down with a Hurricanrana on the floor, drawing a roar from the crowd! Allen feels around a neutral corner, hunting for a tag. He wipes his eyes a little more, trying to regain his vision. Natasha pops back up into her corner and calls out for Chaney again! Allen hears her, moving for her voice... and diving to make a hot tag! Both women enter the ring under the mixed tag rules! Nat does a Matrix bend evasion underneath of a clothesline attempt from Cvetkova! A Roundhouse kick from Walker takes the Black Widow down! The larger Walker cinches Cvetkova up, performing a beautiful butterfly suplex! With the Black Widow reeling, Natasha springboards off the ropes with a Gamengiri kick! The resilient Widow is up faster than expected with her high pain tolerance. Not for long however, as Natasha plants her with "Facejam"! The crowd is yelling at a fever pitch as Natasha sets up for "TsuchiGumo"... but the official waves her off, then signals for the bell.}

Ding!

Ding!

Ding!

{Natasha and Allen both seem a little perplexed, trying to see what is going on as Tommy Knocker explains to them... and then to Alison Valance.}

Alison Valance: Ladies and gentlemen, the twenty minute time limit has expired and the referee has ruled this match a time limit draw!

{The crowd boos as Allen and Natasha show some visible frustration.}

Iyo Kenshin: This crowd is less than pleased with that decision. Walker may have been on the verge of securing a win for her team but the clock just ran out.

Rayne: She had twenty minutes and couldn't get the job done, and there is nothing that proves twenty-one minutes would have helped.

{Savage Kingdom gathers on the outside, chirping up at both Allen and Natasha as the show goes to a break.}

-------------------------------

SEGMENT

"Prater: The Dumbest Thing"

-------------------------------

~RECORDED ON JUNE 7, 2024 - 10:00 AM~

~Day 1~

{ We find R.A. Marshall down in Corpus Christi, Texas, inside the office of Dr. Oliver Prater, the mental health counself who once worked with IWF Hall of Famer Fiona McFly back in 2019.  He was a stately man in his mid-60s, sipping from a piping hot mug of black coffee.  RAM was sitting on a leather sofa, gazing at a painting of the USS Kitty Hawk. }

RAM: Nice painting.

Dr. Prater: It was my father's. He was stationed in Okinawa, Kadena Air Base.

{ RAM checked his watch and prepared to stand up. }

RAM: 'Scuse me...

{ But Dr. Prater stopped him in his tracks. }

Dr. Prater: Mr. Marshall...I'm your counselor.

{ RAM plunked himself back down and scowled. }

RAM: Aww, you're kiddin' me...

Dr. Prater: Why, bedause I'm not an attractive female?

{ RAM chuckled. }

RAM: 'Cause you got wrinkles on your mug.

Dr. Prater: My complexion is hardly relevant, especially in your case.

RAM: And neither is the size of my jockstrap.

{ Dr. Prater sighed as he looked out his office window. }

Dr. Prater: Fiona was right about you when she called me. Crude, standoffish...

RAM: I have every right to be that way...doc.  I've earned that right.

{ Pause. RAM closed his eyes and bowed his head. }

RAM:  Every time I see the Fenix family, or any other faction in wrestlin', I'm reminded of what Bobby Figgins did to me when I was younger...and what he did to the one I loved the most...

{ Another pause as Dr. Prater placed his coffee on the large mahogany desk. }

RAM: When I graduated high school, I thought I could get away from all the nepo-bullshit. Yet when I dead that Retro and Imperial partnership deal, I've found myself bein' reminded of that mess. And it's all fake...nobody wants to actually prove they can stand on their own too feet, without somebody gettin' their hopes up.

{ RAM sighed. }

RAM: 'Cuz in the end, you're only left with nothin' except a broken heart, a broken mind...battered and alone.

{ Dr. Prater cleared his throat. }

Dr. Prater: Tell me, what was the dumbest thing you ever did in high school?

RAM: Lemme go back a few years...

Dr. Prater: Take your time -- we've got plenty of it.

{ RAM took a deep breath, allowing his mind to go back to his days in high school with the one and only friend he ever had -- Rydia Palmer. }

~To be continued~

-------------------------------

IWF GLADIATOR CHAMPIONSHIP

SINGLES MATCH

Logan Sky vs. Jason "J-TV" Hathaway (c)

-------------------------------

Alison Valance: The following match is for the Gladiator Championship!

Rayne: Here we are, the main event.

Iyo Kenshin: What everyone has been waiting for.

{ As one of the most iconic riffs in Rock history starts to pump out from the speakers, Logan walks out onto the stage, soaking in the crowd's reactions. He moves to each side of the stage, throwing his arms up to try and rile the crowd up for the impending match.

He marches down the ramp, head bobbing from side to side before he climbs the stairs, wiping his feet on the apron before he steps through the ropes. Then he moves to each side of the ring, shouting at the crowd to pump them up.}

Alison Valance: First down to the ring, Logan Sky

Rayne: Logain has been working like hell to get here.

Iyo Kenshin: You have to admire his determination.

"Nobody fully understands the effect lightning has on its victims, but strange things seem to happen."

The lights begin to flicker and spin as the drums begin to play, and Jason Hathaway emerges onto the stage. Robbie the Camera Guy is right behind him, hoisting an old video camera on his shoulders as the screens in the arena cut to a live shot of Robbie's feed, complete with a "J-TV" watermark in the corner.

Jason saunters his way down the aisle, swaying and dancing to the blaring surf-rock playing through the speakers and directing all his attention to Robbie's camera rather than those of the actual show. When they reach the apron, Robbie puts down the camera and slides into the ring first, quickly snatching the microphone from the ring announcer.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, you are now watching... J! T! V!"

{Hathaway walks around the side of the ring and hops up onto the apron and flips over the top rope, letting his sunglasses fall off in the process as he drops to a knee and poses in the middle of the ring with his arms spread wide. Robbie slides Jason's jacket off and leaves the ring as Jason slides over to his corner.}

Alison Valance: Second down to the ring, the last great and best TV champion, current Gladiatior Champion Jason J-TV Hathaway!

Rayne: J-TV just won the belt, I know he’s mad about the name change but I don’t know that he is going to do everything he can to hold onto it.

Iyo Kenshin: You’re not wrong.

{ The arena was electric with anticipation as fans packed the seats, creating a sea of excitement and energy. The referee signaled for the bell, and the match began. The two wrestlers circled each other, locking eyes with intensity. They lunged forward, locking up in a collar-and-elbow tie-up. Sky, with his superior strength, quickly gained the upper hand, shoving Hathaway into the corner. Hathaway, ever the showman, bounced back with a sly grin, seemingly unphased.

They exchanged holds and maneuvers, showcasing their technical prowess. Sky executed a series of powerful suplexes, each one sending shockwaves through the ring. Hathaway countered with his agility and speed, delivering quick strikes and high-flying moves that kept Sky on his toes. The momentum swung back and forth, neither man willing to give an inch.

At one point, Sky hoisted Hathaway onto his shoulders, looking to finish the match with his devastating finishing move, THE DEAL. But Hathaway wriggled free, slipping behind Sky and delivering a stunning superkick that sent Sky sprawling to the mat. Hathaway seized the moment, climbing to the top rope and launching himself off with a breathtaking Kamikaze Kick. The crowd gasped in awe, the impact echoing through the arena.

Hathaway went for the cover, but Sky, showing incredible resilience, kicked out at the last possible moment. The fans were on their feet, caught in the edge-of-your-seat drama. Hathaway, frustrated but undeterred, pulled Sky to his feet, signaling for his own finisher, the THE SIGN OFF. However, Sky reversed it, spinning Hathaway around and delivering a thunderous spinebuster.

With both men exhausted, they struggled to their feet, exchanging fierce strikes. Sky caught Hathaway with a lightning-quick clothesline, then another, building momentum.}

{He lifted Hathaway onto his shoulders once more, this time successfully executing The DEAL but -OH NO- JTV hits him with the Cord-Cutter. J TV follows this up with a FAME BREAKER! The ring shook with the impact, and Hathaway immediately went for the pin.}

Alison Valance: The winner and STILL GLADIATOR CHAMPION JASON HATHAWAY!

Rayne: He did it.

Iyo Kenshin: But it was a hard fought match.

{The referee's hand hit the mat: one, two, three! The bell rang, and the crowd exploded in a mixed reaction, some booing, some cheering. Jason "J-TV" Hathaway's entrance music blasted through the speakers. Hathaway, known for his charismatic and larger-than-life personality, strutted onto the the ring as the referee handed him the championship belt, and Jason raised it high above his head, a look of triumph on his face.

The celebration continued as Jason climbed the turnbuckles, the title around his waist, ready to embrace his continued reign as the Gladiator Champion.}