(EAW intro plays.)
(Friday Night Dynasty intro plays. After a recap of last week’s events, the shot transitions to a live look of the arena, where for the final time before Pain for Pride, the fans are packed and the pyro goes off. Several camera shots are shown off, and then, we transition to commentary.)
Stew-O: HERE! WE! ARE! This is it! The final Dynasty of season 19 is upon us, and everyone is ready for Pain for Pride! Welcome back everyone! I am Stew-O, and as always I am joined by Flannery McCoy and Jake Mercer! Guys—what a long way we’ve come from, but tonight, what has been left unsaid will be given time to be said, as everyone is looking to end the night with the last word!
Jake Mercer: They sure are! Gonna be interesting to see what will unfold this evening! Gotta imagine some emotions may be running high, too.
Flannery McCoy: Yeah, certainly. This time of the season always draws those out, and a lot of feuds heading into Toronto have been personal—including the e Universal Women’s Championship match where things have escalated to a point neither Milli Banks nor Minerva may be able to return from unscathed.
(Friday Night Dynasty transitions from the commentary table toward the stage, as ‘You Are Stronger’ by Lyn Inaizumi begins to play through the speakers of the arena. The crowd erupts into thunderous cheers, and before long, Milli Banks is seen making her way out from the backstage area. After the events of last week, the Universal Women’s Champion is clearly not in the best shape, emotional before she can even do anything, she has a dead serious expression on her face as she briskly walks down the ramp and toward the ring.)
Stephie Love: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome… the EAW UNIVERSAL WOMEN’S CHAMPION!!!!!!!!!! MILLI BANKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Stew-O: Last week was… certainly a week for the Universal Women’s Champion. Minerva would show up after her tag team match against ToXXXin on the titantron, breaking into her house and reopening old wounds when it came to her past life as a gymnast. Needless to say, she didn’t take it too well.
Jake Mercer: She didn’t take it well??? She hit her with a car, Stew!
Stew-O: Yeah… I guess she did.
Flannery McCoy: Milli did in fact hit Minerva with her car on Voltage, and we’ve learned that Minerva is still hospitalized following that this weekend, so she won’t be appearing on Dynasty at the very least. Leaving Milli to make her way out to the ring right now to kick off the show and perhaps… explain herself.
(Milli makes her way up the steps and onto the apron as she enters through the ropes and into the ring. She doesn’t waste time with any theatrics, storming over and snatching a microphone from the ringside area. She makes her way toward the center of the ring as ‘You Are Stronger’ begins to come to a close, and after a brief moment, taking the time to compose herself, she raises her microphone and begins to speak.)
Milli Banks: I…
(Milli is about to say something, but before she does, her mind wanders off. She lowers her microphone as she looks down at the ground, taking a moment to come to her senses. The crowd, regardless, is showing their support for the Universal Women’s Champion.)
Crowd: MILLI! MILLI! MILLI! MILLI!
(Milli gives a faint smile, glancing upward.)
Milli Banks: Thanks y’all. Glad there’s still some real ones around here, because I’m not gonna lie… these past couple of weeks have been nothing but hostility. I guess that’s putting that lightly though, huh? A part of me wanted it to be smooth sailings between now and Toronto, have a kewt little demure time heading into the end of the season, and really ending it strong by taking out that punk ass bitch that’s been tryna fuck with me for the longest now. But that’s not what happened, is it? Nah, instead we got a bunch of bullshit heading into Pain For Pride, Minerva thought she was real fucking slick breaking into my house and doing all that shit…
(Milli pauses for a moment, scrunching her face as she tries to calm herself down.)
Milli Banks: And… she decided that it was in her best interest to try and dig into my past and “expose” me for it. Yeah, I’m not gonna deny it, that riled me up. It pissed me off beyond belief, and I’ve always been the girl who stands on business, and that’s exactly what I did. I hit that bitch with a car, so what? She can ball her fists and cry about it for all I care because she got what she deserved! I have no regret in sending her to the hospital and making sure that she suffers for a long, uncomfortable time. I did that with a fucking smile on my face.
(Milli stops as she realizes she’s getting ahead of herself, taking a deep breath.)
Milli Banks: But… still, that ain’t changing the fact that some people were unhappy about that. They didn’t approve of what I did, and I’m sure Minerva and so many others are asking themselves what I have to say about the situation. And while they don’t deserve the satisfaction… Okay, I’ll explain myself, Minerva.
(Milli takes a moment to pause, as the crowd inside of the arena murmurs in anticipation for what she has to say for herself.)
Milli Banks: I’m not proud of the person I was before EAW. I was hateful, arrogant, egotistical… every bad word that you could write, I was under that umbrella. Yeah, I guess Minerva is right in a sense, I worked hard to keep all of that in the back of my mind, but what she overlooks is that I also worked really, really hard to get away from that. And lowkey? It’s annoying as fuck to have people like her try to hold that above my head, like it’s something that I should be ashamed of, fuck no. None of us are perfect, as much as we want to be, and I know Minnie is trying her damndest to make herself look like some sort of saint, but that bitch ain’t perfect either. I’m tired of being looked at as someone I’m not because of some preconceived notion that people like to ASSUME means so much to me. Do you want to know the truth?
(Milli unbuckles her title from around her waist, taking it and slinging it over her shoulder as it gleams under the spotlight.)
Milli Banks: I am, no exaggerations, no bullshit, the greatest of all time. I am an EAW Hall of Famer with an accolade list that people would die for and I got that in half the time. I am walking into my third straight Pain For Pride main event as World Champion and if anyone has anything to say about that, they can suck my dick because there’s no narrative that you can spin that’s going to take that away from me. So I can take Minerva’s words to heart, but at the same time, I can also tell her straight that she doesn’t stand a goddamn chance against me either. Ain’t no mindgames or bullshit is going to change that. Before Milli Banks she was the girl to talk about around these parts, but as soon as I stepped in the game fucking changed and that’s something that she can’t seem to accept. That fateful Pain For Pride where I handed you your very first Pain For Pride loss was what started all this bitterness in the first place, and if you want to go there, then fine… I can go there too.
(Milli makes her way over and grabs the cameraman, forcing the camera to focus directly on her.)
Milli Banks: That’s why I hit your bitchass with a car, and that’s why I’m walking into Toronto to make sure you’re fucking dead.
(The crowd erupts into thunderous cheers, as MIlli takes a step back, glancing around at the electricity here tonight as we’re a week away from Pain For Pride.)
Milli Banks: So with ALL THAT in mind, you can do whatever the fuck you want to do, you pasty ass bitch, I don’t care anymore. You’re not going to get into my head one week away from your own funeral, and it’s not gonna be long now until I hand your ass a 0-3 courtesy of the REAL best female Elitist in Elite Answers Wrestling history. And if you have a problem with that? Then you can fucking cry about it. Because regardless of what happens at Pain For Pride, I will ALWAYS be better than you, and nothing is going to change that no matter how hard you try and kill my stride. Maybe that’s the real fucking tragedy of all of this, huh?
(Milli lowers her microphone down to the ground, breathing heavily as she stares into the hard camera.)
???: *My* funeral…
(The crowd immediately recognizes the voice as Milli quickly turns her head, the titantron lighting up as it’s revealed to be none other than…)
Minerva: You should’ve made sure I was dead, Tahira. You should’ve put me to the ground while you had the chance, but the fact that you left me breathing means that you made the biggest mistake of your life… and Minerva is going to make sure you live to regret that.
(Minerva scowls, as the camera begins to zoom out, showing the scenery around her. Even with that, it doesn’t reveal much, it’s an undisclosed location, dark, dim, with the only source of light shining directly down on her, and as it does, the damage from last week remains evident. After quite literally getting hit by a car, she’s bandaged up and wounded, and more importantly, unhappier than ever.)
Minerva: I’m hurt, yes, more than I would like to admit, but that was never going to stop me from making an appearance… Especially after what you did. You escalated this situation more than you could have ever imagined, and if you think that any of that happened to be my doing… then you truly do have a twisted, warped perception of what’s right and what’s wrong, Tahira.
(Milli doesn’t look happy inside of the ring seeing her, she’s continuing to breathe heavily as she glares at the titantron, not letting her get the pleasure of a response. Minerva doesn’t care though, she begins to pace around, staring at the camera.)
Minerva: But that’s always been the case, I should have known when I revealed to the world who the real Milli Banks was, that you would be more keen on wearing it on your sleeve. Those innate traits, blanketed with an excuse that it’s okay not to be perfect… How pathetic does that sound? It just goes to show to me that nobody has been able to compromise you in the EAW more than I have, and right now… all I’m doing is picking the bones. This is a matter of action versus reaction, I committed the action, and your reaction was what happened on Voltage, you are *not* in control. This is merely instinctual, uncontrolled, and it must eat you alive to know that all of this is directly in the palm of my hands.
(Minerva snickers for a moment, as she stops, nodding her head slowly as she processes her thoughts. Milli has fully leaned against the ropes inside of the ring, continuing to stare at the titantron, as if she can’t take her eyes off of it… as if Minerva has something hidden up her sleeve that she refuses to show just yet. It’s a tense scene, one that the crowd waits on the edge of their seats for. After a long, uncomfortable moment, Minerva approaches the camera.)
Minerva: So, that much is true, if you want to go there, Tahira… then we can go there. Minerva is more than capable of making sure that your reaction has a consequence, and I am willing to get some blood on my hands if that is necessary to get into your head just how much of a mistake that you have made. I gave you courtesy, I gave you a chance to save yourself before I truly take it to that level, but now… No more of that. That’s done with.
(Minerva brings her hand up, swinging over her shoulder a lead pipe… stained with blood. Milli’s eyes immediately widen inside of the ring, her mind racing as she raises the microphone.)
Milli Banks: Wh- What… What did you do…
(Minerva only chuckles at this, allowing for a lingering pause to continue to leave her in suspense.)
Minerva: I did what I promised to do, Tahira… I made it personal.
(The camera pans down…)
Stew-O: Oh my… God… That’s…
Flannery McCoy: THAT’S MILLI’S SISTER!
(Annayah Jackson is seen on the titantron, as she’s completely laid out. Her face is to the floor as a pool of blood surrounds it, staining Minerva’s shoes. A chuckle escapes the mouth of Minerva, as she kicks her, showing that she’s still semi-conscious, but obviously, she’s very hurt.)
(Milli is distraught.)
(She’s frozen inside of the ring, her breath goes shaky as her eyes begin to water. In her mind, there’s nothing that she can do, almost as if she expected something tragic to happen that’s completely out of her hands. Her microphone drops out of her shaky hands as she drops down to a knee, continuing to stare at the titantron.)
(Milli was speechless.)
Minerva: I’ll be at Voltage this weekend, Tahira. Don’t disappoint me…
(The titantron completely shuts off, and almost as if the visual disappearing snapped her out of her trance, Milli screams.)
Milli Banks: (Off-Mic) NO!
(Milli quickly scrambles back up to her feet as she tries to leave the ring, rushing out of the scene to try and help her sister, even though a part of her knows that it’s too late, she almost doesn’t care. The crowd is completely silent, startled into shock after what they just witnessed.)
(But that’s not it.)
(THUD!)
Jake Mercer: MILLI JUST DROPPED TO THE GROUND! WHO THE?!
Stew-O: IT’S MINERVA!
(Minerva stands over Milli, breathing heavily as she strikes her with the same, blood-stained lead pipe that she used to beat down her sister. The video was prerecorded, and she used the opportunity while Milli was overcome with emotion to sneak in through the crowd and attack her.)
Flannery McCoy: MINERVA STRIKES HER AGAIN-
Jake Mercer: BUT MILLI TURNS AROUND AND TACKLES HER DOWN TO THE GROUND! OVERCOME WITH RAGE AND EMOTION, SHE’S THRASHING AT MINERVA, BEGINNING TO TEAR HER APART FOR WHAT SHE DID!
(Milli slams wild fists into her, ripping apart the bandages that Minerva has wrapped around her and digging into her wounds. Minerva grits her teeth in pain, but she manages to find the strength to shove her off of her, Milli flying to the side, obviously not thinking with her head right now.)
Stew-O: MILLI SCRAMBLES UP AS SHE CHARGES AT MINERVA-
(THUD!)
Flannery McCoy: BUT MINERVA JUST SLAMMED THE LEAD PIPE AGAINST THE SURGICALLY REPAIRED KNEE! MILLI FALLS DOWN TO THE GROUND AS SHE WRITHES IN PAIN! SCREAMING IN AGONY! AND MINERVA ISN’T DONE!
Jake Mercer: SHE’S BEGINNING TO BASH THE LEAD PIPE AGAINST THE SKULL OF MILLI BANKS REPEATEDLY! BEATING HER DOWN BRUTALLY! OH MY GOD!
(Minerva manages to bust Milli open with one shot aimed right at her face. Blood begins to fly everywhere as she relentlessly swings the lead pipe down over… and over… and over… Milli is half-conscious, trying to fight for her life, but she’s crying in pain, unable to do anything right now with the weapon in Minerva’s hands.)
Stew-O: SECURITY HAS FINALLY MANAGED TO COME INTO THE RING AND STOP MINERVA FROM GOING ANY FURTHER! THEY CHECK ON MILLI, WHO IS A BLOODY MESS INSIDE OF THE RING, AND I FEEL LIKE THE CHALLENGER HAS MORE THAN SENT A MESSAGE HEADING INTO PAIN FOR PRIDE!
(The crowd is booing loudly as Minerva shakes her head with a smirk, stumbling back as she nurses her wounds, dropping the bloodied lead pipe down to the canvas as she turns around and makes her way out of the ring, feeling as though she has done enough now, even though in her mind, Milli deserves a hell of a lot more than she just gave her. She begins to make her way back through the crowd, being escorted out by security.)
(The last shot seen is officials surrounding Milli, checking on her as she’s completely unconscious at this point, with the camera focused on the bloodied lead pipe that rolls to a stop inside of the ring. All while Friday Night Dynasty begins to fade elsewhere.)
(The Friday Night Dynasty video feed shifts to a wide view of the arena before ‘DIVE in LIVE’ by YOLOZ began blaring through the speakers to loud cheers; Anna Wautier emerged from behind the stage curtains, and it was apparent by the expression on her face that she was focused and had something to say about her upcoming war with the New Breed Champion. She stormed her way down the ramp towards the squared circle with a microphone clasped in her hand.)
Stew-O: Here comes the contender for the New Breed Championship, Anna Wautier, who’ll be going up against Clayton Golde for THE gold at Pain for Pride!
Flannery McCoy: We already saw them get in a heated confrontation last Showdown and it’s clear that they’re polar opposites!
Jake Mercer: Not to mention, Clayton ended up getting a cheap shot against Anna Wautier, knocking her out cold with a LITERAL title shot! I’m sure Anna isn’t happy about that at all, and we’re probably about to hear her speak on it!
(Anna enters the ring and doesn’t waste a second after her music fades to begin speaking.)
Anna Wautier: Sincerely, I HATE Clayton Golde. And since he loves to hear himself being talked about so much, I’ll oblige in my own way.
(The crowd cheers at the fiery tone Anna has.)
Anna Wautier: Never before have I seen a man LESS suited to represent the new generation of Elite Answers Wrestling. Clayton Golde is a man that wouldn’t know or understand honor if he was taught it from birth; some people are just born to be the scum of the Earth, and to my chagrin and the chagrin of the entire EAW Universe, that man is currently holding the New Breed Championship hostage.
Anna Wautier: That is, bluntly, an error of reality. And it is an error I intend to CORRECT at Pain for Pride. From the moment I was designated as the challenger to his title, Clayton Golde hasn’t shown even a modicum of respect; from the VERY MOMENT, he made it his mission to step out into the squared circle and disparage my name and identity. And if it was just about him talking about trash, I wouldn’t be out here with as much venom in my voice as I have right now; no, no, this goes BEYOND just me.
Anna Wautier: It goes down to Clayton Golde at his core. He is ROTTEN to the core. There just… there isn’t anything left to be salvaged. Everything he says screams insecurity and malice. Everything he DOES reflects what he says. He is not a man that wants to represent the type of grit and effort it takes to make it to the top of the mountain in the professional wrestling industry. He is not the type of man that is capable of handling adversity the right way and using it as a method of growth.
Anna Wautier: Clayton Golde would sooner CHEAT his way to the top and ruin the prestige of everything he has trampled on his path. As we speak, he may as well be scraping the mud and dirt from his boots atop the surface of the New Breed Championship, tainting it at the expense of our entire division.
Anna Wautier: Even outside of the New Breed division, even outside of the professional wrestling industry itself, Clayton is the epitome of a parasite, grifting off of the worst people of society by constantly spewing nothing but flagrant misogyny just to drum up the wealth he craves to sustain his decadent lifestyle. In his mind, there exists nothing with value beyond himself and his property; he would sooner drown a city than get a scratch on his car.
Anna Wautier: And he has made it his life’s mission to let that rot fester in the industry I call home. It is a crime what has happened to the prestige of the New Breed Championship, once held in high regard as the signifier for the rising elitists that would go on to define the next generation of this company, now being treated like a trinket to satiate the endless ego of an arrogant, sexist manchild.
Anna Wautier: To that, I say NO MORE!
(The crowd erupts with cheers.)
Anna Wautier: NO MORE will we be forced to tolerate the filth that spills from Clayton’s mouth on a weekly basis. NO MORE will we be forced to tolerate the desecration of the New Breed Championship! NO MORE–
Clayton Golde: You need to stop your bitching.
(The cheers flip in an instant as Clayton Golde appears, donning his trademark arrogant smirk as he saunters down the ramp, microphone in hand, and enters the ring before speaking to Anna with the most condescending tone imaginable.)
Clayton Golde: Seriously! You think men pay good money to hear a woman like you ranting our ears off with? Worry not, though, because the Golden God is here to cleanse the airwaves of all the nonsense you’ve been spewing. I mean come on, you can’t really expect me to believe an itty bitty little pipsqueak like you chirping away at a CHAMPION like me has any real meaning, right?
(Clayton adopts a mocking squeaky voice.)
Clayton Golde: MUH MISOGYNY! MUH SEXISM! MUH GRIT! MUH EFFORT! Fat load of good all that effort and grit did you when you went against a big, strong man like ‘mR mAcHiNa’ at Fighting Spirit, huh? If I’m really the scum of the earth like you claim me to be, why is it that I’m the one standing here with the gold while you’re left as nothing but a hysterical ranting mess?
Clayton Golde: And, as the Golden God, the gold doesn’t stop at my title, baby! All that shit you were talking about how I’m tainting the New Breed Championship is nothing but BS, because I’ve been bringing something to the title that you could NEVER bring, and that’s SUCCESS! When has a New Breed Champion ever been drawing viewers like me? I represent the title when I bring every Golde-pilled man to their screens as they watch me showing whiny bitches like you what ACCOUNTABILITY means!
Anna Wautier: Accountability? Are you serious?
Clayton Golde: Hell yeah! I’m held accountable to the state of the New Breed title, and what have I done with it? I’ve been winning and winning! I’m winning in LIFE! My supplement sales are through the roof as I empower men around the world to seize the day! Tell me something, pipsqueak, do people really hate me as much as they say they do if they’re chomping at the bit to buy what I’m selling them?
(Anna doesn’t answer.)
Clayton Golde: Seems to me like the silent majority is on MY side, leaving you with the vocal minority that’s–
(Clayton Golde turns to direct his attention at the crowd.)
Clayton Golde: JUST AS ANNOYING AS THE PIPSQUEAK!
(Deafening boos ensue.)
Clayton Golde: But who gives a damn about the vocal minority? They – and YOU – can keep on squawking about how jealous you are of my success, but it won’t mean a thing as long as I keep on winning! And that’s EXACTLY what I’m gonna do at Pain for Pride when I take all that nonsense you were talking about effort and throw it in the trash where it belongs when I beat you… EFFORTLESSLY!
(Anna just shakes her head; her fiery anger from before has died down and it’s replaced with cold pity and calmness.)
Anna Wautier: There really isn’t anything to you, is there? Nothing but a bunch of false idols glued together and called a human being. It makes me wonder whether there really is anyone there or if there’s a mask behind every other mask. Where actual human beings have true thoughts and feelings that form their mindsets, you’re… something lesser. Like a bacteria driven by nothing but chemotaxis, with not a thought put behind any word.
Anna Wautier: Can you truly believe what you say? Do you sincerely think that you’ll be able to defeat me with no effort at all at Pain for Pride? I’ve scarcely heard something said that was so deeply pitiable than that. Just nothing but constant negativity and toxicity; is that truly what you want your entire legacy and identity to be based on? A true net negative to the world from your birth to your grave?
(Clayton, shockingly, stays silent as Anna says these words.)
Anna Wautier: We are both young. We have many, many years ahead of us. I have no doubt in my mind that when I become an elder, I will look back upon myself, my actions, and my ideology with pride, knowing that I lived up to what I said I would become because I put in the work to make that reality. Tell me something, Clayton. Ten… twenty… even thirty years from now. Do you realize that you’ll end up regretting everything that you were and everything that you represented, when it causes you to be left with nothing – no honor, no pride, no legacy – after it’s all said and done?
(Clayton’s jaw tightens.)
Clayton Golde: I… hm. Ugh. Shit. Why are you making sense? I guess it isn’t too late for me to change, right? I don’t want to die full of regret… I…
(He nods, with Anna truly having gotten through to her… until-)
Stew-O: OH, WHAT THE HELL?!
(The crowd erupts with boos as Clayton bashes Anna over the head with the title.)
Clayton Golde: I REGRET NOTHING! AHAHAHAHA! What the hell do I have to regret?! I’m AMAZING! I’M THE BEST! I’M THE GOLDEN GOD! And it’ll be really hard to feel regret when I leave Pain for Pride as the New Breed Champion, staring into my own face reflected on that polished gold, while you’re left with NOTHING!
(The video feed lingers as Clayton hoists the championship high over Anna’s fallen body, before the feed fades to black.)
(A commercial plays for Pain for Pride, advertising the New Breed Championship match between Anna Wautier and the defending champion Clayton Golde.)
(‘Cult Leader’ by KiNG MALA hits the speakers and Mia Santoro emerges from the crowd to a sea of boos from the fans. Santoro marches down with the Interwire Championship around her shoulder. She looks confused at the bulk of them, demanding that they stick their hands out in an attempt to tag her—but no one wants anything to do with Mia and her shit. She frowns at the constant disrespect being thrown her way, as she hops over the barricade and enters the ring.)
Stephie Love: Please welcome to the ring at this time… she is ‘THE OBSESSION’, MIIIIAAAAA!! SSAAANNTTTOORRRROOOO!!
Stew-O: Well here comes a woman who has called upon a lot of scrutiny, and understandably so. The number one contender to the Interwire Championship, Mia Santoro has taken it upon herself to take the physical championship belt from the champion, Effy McAvoy, ahead of Pain For Pride… and now, she’s parading it around like she’s already won the thing.
Jake Mercer: Santoro is a wild card … to say the least. It’s hard to shatter the thoughts of delusion that circulate around in her head, and that’s exactly what’s going on right now. I don’t know where Effy is, but Santoro has to know that she’s a marked woman, right?
Flannery McCoy: Mia caught her off guard to steal the Interwire Championship in the first place. She put her hands on Ahren Fournier, and I’m sure that she intends on getting away with it tonight with Pain For Pride looming. I just hope whatever she’s about to say isn’t painful to hear…
(Mia Santoro stands in the ring with the Interwire Championship, playing off the boos. She hoists the championship over on her shoulder, raising it up like she’s already won it. The boos continue, and she shakes her head, moving over to grab a microphone.)
Mia Santoro: I want you all to know that this visual was a given. From the moment that I set my sights on winning this championship, that should’ve been the cue for Effy McAvoy and the rest of the world to understand that I am NOT losing it. No matter what you say, I am the rightful Interwire Champion! That’s why so many of you have already defaulted to cheering for me and chanting my name! In fact, let’s start that right now, shall we
(Mia motions to the fans, who have zero interest in playing her game tonight.)
Mia Santoro: LET’S GO MIA, CLAP CLAP! LET’S GO MIA, CLAP CLAP! LET’S GO MI—
Crowd: BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!
(She rolls her eyes at their boos, but it doesn’t stop her smiling from going away. In fact, Santoro looks quite proud of herself.)
Mia Santoro: You guys have some work to do, but not a bad start! Nonetheless, I’m not going to waste my time trying to engage with those that don’t believe in me. I’ve done a phenomenal job at turning critics into believers. Is that not what I did when I won the Specialists Championship when nobody believed that I would do it, and what happened then? I won that championship, I put everyone on notice. I understand how hard it is for a lot of people to win a championship in this company, and I will be one of the few to win two championships in one season! I’m going to shut a lot of people up, and history WILL repeat itself at Pain For Pride. Hmm, on second thought…
(Mia taps her chin, pretending to be lost in thought for quite some time. She then looks back up to the camera and smiles, clearly coming to a conclusion.)
Mia Santoro: History already HAS repeated itself. I AM the Interwire Champion! Say what you want, but it is already set in stone. Effy McAvoy will never get her hands on this championship ship again for as long as I am around, and that’s something that she has to come to terms with! Effy should be happy that I’m being so generous with her, pretending to go along with the match at Pain For Pride, giving her a small chance at beating me when everyone knows I’m going to embarrass her! She should be happy that she’s being afforded the opportunity to get this championship from me… because that’s all Effy knows, isn’t it?
(Despite the groans from the fans, knowing that they’re about to get more complaints from Santoro, she doesn’t allow that to deter her.)
Mia Santoro: All that Effy has been afforded is opportunity. She has been handed *everything* in this company, and it’s all because she sits under the tree of a “legendary” Hall Of Famer in this company! She has rode the coattails for Ahren Fournier for all that they’re worth, and she thinks that she’s on her way to replicating a successful career just like he did—and you all put the thought in her head that she WILL! What is that?! Can someone please enlighten me on that? Because I have a job, and that is to put Effy in her place. I have worked far too long in this company, been counted out by so many, and—
(Mia’s voice starts to waver as she gets deeper into her rant, and for a moment, it
looks like she’s going to cut herself off… but rather, she’s trying to keep her emotions in check before she starts getting out of line.)
Mia Santoro: and—I—I—I will NOT allow all of my hard work to go down to the cruel, tortuous, inhumane beast that is NEPOTISM! All of you! You should be on your HANDS and KNEES, praising me for doing what NONE OF YOU CAN STOMACH! All of you work hard, right? And how many of you have lost promotions, valuable opportunities, or missed out on job offers because of nepotism?!?! I am SELF MADE! REPEAT AFTER ME!
(She marches towards the ropes, calling for the fans to engage with her.)
Mia Santoro: SELF!
Crowd: BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
Mia Santoro: MADE!
Crowd: BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
Mia Santoro: SELF! MADE!
Crowd: BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
(Santoro glares at the booing crowd, her eyes darting from fan to fan, and her gaze just looks like it’s burning through everyone in the front row that’s making the decision to oppose her point of view right now.)
Mia Santoro: I’m not surprised, but I’m sick to my stomach that none of you believe! I should be respected! I should be placed on a pedestal, but I’m NOT—and it’s all thanks to you people! I am a superstar, on the way to having my name written in the stars with the greats, and I won’t allow you to silence me any further! If you don’t respect me, I will force you to! I will eat Effy McAvoy alive if I have to, then when it’s over with? When you ALL have no choice but to BOO–
(The crowd starts to rev up a loud chorus of boos, but Santoro is at a point of getting so loud and agitated that she completely talks over them.)
Mia Santoro: –THEN I WILL RAISE THIS INTERWIRE CHAMPIONSHIP UP HIGH, AND THERE IS *NOTHING* THAT ANY OF YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT! I have given up everything in order to even say that I have this honor. That’s why you all should acknowledge me as the champion. Let’s be honest! If Effy truly thought that she was entitled to holding this belt… then it would be in her hands right now, wouldn’t it? But it’s NOT! And the only person that she has to blame for that… is herself.
(Mia leans against the ropes with a smirk, resting her arms on the top rope. She keeps the microphone up to her mouth, feeling extremely confident and full of herself.
Mia Santoro: So to everyone that still somehow thinks that Effy McAvoy is going to beat me at Pain For Pride, when I have already PROVEN that I am a championship caliber performer at Pain For Pride? Mourn her while you’ve still got her, because after this weekend is over? I don’t care what happens to her career from here on out, but know that her name WON’T be uttered in the same breath as mine!
(And with that, Mia tosses the microphone aside and backs up. She raises the Interwire Championship up high, and ‘Cult Leader’ begins playing. The fans boo the hell out of Santoro, and she takes glee in that.)
Stew-O: Strong words from Mia Santoro, and she is completely set up for Pain For Pride in her eyes to leave with that Interwire Championship!
Jake Mercer: I suppose so. Mia is feeling invincible right now, and maybe she isn’t wrong to think tha—
Flannery McCoy: HOLD ON JUST A MINUTE!
(Santoro feels the vibes in the arena suddenly shift, as the boos turn into loud cheers that almost sound like the crowd is screaming. She turns around, and she IMMEDIATELY gets taken out with ‘PROTECT YA NECK’ from EFFY MCAVOY! Mia hits the canvas hard, and Effy stands over her, pacing around the ring in accordance to the crowd’s energy! She reaches down and glances at her Interwire Championship then turns her gaze to Santoro.)
Stew-O: EFFY MCAVOY IS HERE! AND SHE HAS COME BACK FOR HER CHAMPIONSHIP AFTER ALL! SHE JUST LAID SANTORO CLEAN OUT WITH THE STORYBOOK ENDING, AND MIA IS WRITHING IN PAIN!
Flannery McCoy: This is ALL Effy wanted, and we knew that she wasn’t just going to allow Mia to get away with parading around with her championship! Santoro is holding at the side of her neck in agony, and I’m not surprised whatsoever!
Jake Mercer: McAvoy practically tried to BEHEAD Santoro with that! We almost didn’t have a match! But Effy isn’t done, as she reaches down for the microphone…!
(Effy takes the microphone in her hand and she looks down at Mia, breathing heavily.)
Effy McAvoy: Mia… what a mistake that you’ve made. You really thought that because you snatched the belt away from me, that means you outsmarted me? That means that all of the work that I’ve put into this point…? It means absolutely nothing, because you said so? I know what it’s like to become crazy for success, to drown everything else out except for your own desires. Nothing mattered to me besides what I wanted, and if I couldn’t get what I wanted? I’d burn the whole world down! I’m not exempt to coming across people who think like I do… but not everyone is going to succeed in this company simply because they copied *my* mindset.
(Mia groans, trying to roll away from Effy so she doesn’t have to hear her any longer, but she can hardly make her way up to get out of the ring.)
Effy McAvoy: So I’m going to leave you with this: enjoy your brief time with that championship. It is the only time that I am going to allow you to walk around with the Interwire Championship in your hands. Because at Pain For Pride? I’m going to teach you a lesson. Everybody can say whatever they want about me! But they can never say that I didn’t do it the right way. I don’t hide behind lies like you do, Mia. I don’t need to walk around with a championship that isn’t mine! Because since I’ve been here? The one thing that I am most certainly good at is EARNING IT!
(She tosses the microphone aside and takes the Interwire Championship in her hand, raising it up high as ‘Psycho’ hits the speakers. Mia finally rolls out of the ring, seething, as she scoots away from the ring in pain. As Mia tries to get up the ramp, she turns to see Ahren Fournier standing up there with Jennipurr in his hands. She grins at Mia in discomfort and caught in an uncomfortable position.)
Stew-O: Effy McAvoy has made herself loud and clear, and that is not a good sign for Mia Santoro whatsoever! What she thought was going to give her an edge ahead of Pain For Pride has only fueled McAvoy instead!
Jake Mercer: Absolutely so, and she has everything riding on her to defeat Santoro and leave with the win! I’m not sure who enters this match with more pressure, but tonight, Mia must feel like a big, big fool.
(A commercial plays for Pain for Pride, where Effy McAvoy defends the EAW Interwire Championship against Mia Santoro.)
(Outside of the arena, the moon is at the peak within the night sky, stars dazzling as the sun has completely set. Kirk Redwood leans up against the wall, looking up. Most nights he’d spent holed up in the locker room or in some darkened locale, but tonight, something told him to take in the air.)
(A sigh passes through him. The season looked as if it would turn out like all of the other ones: him trying to break out and prove he can hang with the best, only to fall short every single time. Yet, things turned out for the better for him, including a massive win against Brian Daniels at Fighting Spirit. Now, he’s set to go up against another Hall of Famer; and the thought brings a faint smile to his face.)
(He takes the moment to step away from the wall, and takes a seat on the curb. However, footsteps are then heard—)
???: Didn’t take you for a contemplative man.
(—and Kirk turns, seeing Limmy Monaghan. The former multi-time champion looks at him with something that is a cross between amusement and slight confusion. Kirk snorts.
Kirk Redwood: Ain’t contemplative. Just reminiscing.
Limmy Monaghan: Yeah? Already looking forward to your loss?
Kirk Redwood: Pfft. You fuckin’ wished. If anythin’ you outta be replaying the career highlights in yer head, Limmy. Told you this is only gonna end one way.
Limmy Monaghan: Isn’t that how all wrestling matches are supposed to end?
(Kirk rolls his eyes, and mutters ‘smart ass’ low. Limmy catches it and grins, looking up to the sky.)
Limmy Monaghan: Well, at least this is the biggest match of your career. We can agree on that. I have to say that I wasn’t exactly sure if I was making the right choice in humoring you as an opponent, but… you know what? This has been different from the usual matches I’ve had at Pain for Pride.
Kirk Redwood: Yeah? How come?
(Limmy shrugs.)
Limmy Monaghan: Because for once, I’m not having to wrestle with anger. Or hurt. I’m getting the chance to wrestle where competition is at its purest form—and for that to come from you of all people has been a bit of a mindfuck, but one that isn’t entirely unwelcomed. We obviously had our differences, and the last time we faced off against each other under a marquee banner, it damn sure wasn’t pretty.
Kirk Redwood: Mhm.
Limmy Monaghan: But this time.. I’m looking forward to what you can bring, Kirk. I’m not one to go on the moral crusades. I think you know that well and good by now. Yet, I will say, you have changed for the better, and it’s been admirable to say.
(That makes Kirk pause. Limmy chuckles, picking up on the subtle expression.)
Limmy Monaghan: And I have to admit—if this was a few years ago, I can’t say I would’ve been quick to save the person I loved if a world title was right there in my face. Yet, you did so anyway. It’s easy to think about what could’ve been, but you remain steadfast in that decision. Helps that you didn’t bomb your following marquee match after that too, so it’s not like people can say you did that for nothing. :troll:
Kirk Redwood: Oh, God. Since when the fuck were you the type to give me a credit? Are you trying to make me sick before our match? I ain’t gonna forfeit.
Limmy Monaghan: :mjlol: !! Not at all. Wouldn’t want you to find some convoluted excuse not to show up to Toronto.
(Limmy stares up at the stars some more. Pain for Pride brought up some iconic moments for him—but others where he left with not gold, but heartbreak. He spent much of his season questioning his status as the Ace, wondering if perhaps that one world title run, even in spite of the looming Hall of Fame induction, was something that was never meant to be replicated.)
(But just like Kirk, he’s found peace—and as he looks to him one more time, that same peace washes over his features.)
Limmy Monaghan: Because I will be showing up all the same. And I want you to give me your best effort, because I know I will.
(Kirk looks up at him. A small grin comes to the surface.)
Kirk Redwood: I will. Ain’t gotta worry about that. We’re good on that.
Limmy Monaghan: Good. Alright then, Kirk: may the best man win.
(Limmy reaches for a handshake.)
Kirk Redwood: Yeah. Let the best man win.
(And Kirk shakes it.)
Kirk Redwood: … and it’s going to be, by the way.
Limmy Monaghan: Uh-huh.
Kirk Redwood: Just so we’re clear on that.
Limmy Monaghan: Yep. I’m so sure, Kirk.
Kirk Redwood: I can try not to bust up that face too badly, at the very least.
Limmy Monaghan: Riiiight. Got it.
(And both men laugh—unexpectedly. They shake their heads. Most of their meetings had been fraught with tension, but the moment they agreed to put aside their differences for this one match, the air has lifted. They may not be friends, but there’s a new layer of respect—and that same respect shines brightly like the moon up above them as the scene slowly fades from them.)
(Friday Night Dynasty returns to show a shot of the Amsoil Arena, with the crowd murmuring in anticipation for what is to come next. Their anticipation quickly grows sour, as it’s replaced with loud boos with the sounds of ‘Partition (Smearcase Trap Remix)’ by Beyoncé beginning to play up. The camera goes over to the stage, as Kassidy Heart is seen making her way out from the backstage area. She has a confident expression on her face, taking a brief moment to glance around before then beginning to make her way down the ramp and toward the ring.)
Stephie Love: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome… THE MAULER… KASSIDY HEART!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Stew-O: Kassidy Heart has certainly had an eventful end to the season, on a collision course with another one of Dynasty’s top stars for one of the biggest events of the year, Pain For Pride is something that feels like second nature for someone of her caliber. She certainly has to be confident heading into it.
Flannery McCoy: But at the same time, whether she wants to or not, she’s going to have to acknowledge the massive threat standing across the ring from her. BRAE is someone who has risen his stock from the moment that he’s entered this brand, and now more than ever, it feels like it’s at its peak. Kassidy, though, looks to snuff that out, and show once and for all that there is nobody fit for the World Heavyweight Championship on this brand other than her.
Jake Mercer: Tyrone Montgomery would be stupid not to draft this nutcase back to this brand, if he values his life then that’s the only choice that he has! She’s focused on one thing and that’s making history as the female World Heavyweight Champion, and she’s proven along the way that nobody is going to stop her from doing that! Not even BRAE!
(Kassidy makes her way up the steps and onto the apron as she enters into the ring. She makes her way over and takes a microphone from the ringside area while ‘Partition (Smearcase Trap Remix)’ begins to come to a close. As she turns around and heads toward the center of the ring, she takes a brief moment before beginning to speak.)
Kassidy Heart: So, I guess I have to talk about BRAE. 🤢
(The crowd cheers loudly upon the mention of the former Interwire Champion, Kassidy not being able to help rolling her eyes as she continues on.)
Kassidy Heart: I never valued anyone’s opinion over my own, because my opinion is perfect and it’s the truth. But I just don’t understand what gravitates all of you toward this absolute black hole of charisma. Why do any of you believe that he’s going to be a top star on Friday Night Dynasty, this next big thing that everyone seemingly wants to tote? Most importantly, what makes you believe, even for a goddamn second, that he’s going to become a World Heavyweight Champion on this brand… over *me?* Do you realize how ridiculous of a statement that is? And you know what? I’m not gunna sugarcoat it, something like that really pisses me off. Because I didn’t nearly kill myself for this company to be disrespected in this manner. I DESERVE respect, I CRAVE respect, and I will FORCE respect if that is necessary.
(Kassidy begins to pace around, a serious look on her face as she continues on with what she has to say.)
Kassidy Heart: While I could stand here and be really fucking envious about my thoughts on my position right now, I’m gunna keep that to myself, because everyone should already know that I deserve to be in the World Championship picture. Along with the Drake Kings and the Cy Hendersons who have somehow inserted themselves into the main event, I should be there too, and it should’ve gone without question whether or not Kassidy Heart was going to make history this season. But here I am, it hasn’t gone to plan, and what really grinds my gears is that people suddenly think because of it, that’s a wrap. Why the fuck would it be? I understand that because of my greatness I’ve been subjected to scrutiny that nobody else has had to endure and having my career under a microscope. Just now I had to listen to Milli Banks talk about #1 and #2 in this company without even mentioning me, fuck her. And fuck everyone else who doesn’t give me the respect that I deserve, what a real fucking mistake you’ve made trying to count ME, Kassidy Heart, out of all people. That just gives me more of a reason to slaughter your favorite little boy in cold blood.
(Kassidy chuckles as she says that, the crowd continuing to boo, but she doesn’t really care.)
Kassidy Heart: Oh the dark, twisted fantasies I’ve had of making an example out of BRAE. Gutting him like a pig and hanging his intestines all over the streets of Toronto, much deserved for someone like him who thinks it’s proper to step over me. I’ve had to listen to a who’s who of people try to tell me that what I did was “unjustified”, and attacking BRAE was “unnecessary” and “uncalled for”. And even if that was the case… who really gives a fuck? We’ve had an entire Pain For Pride rivalry revolve around someone murdering an unborn fetus, if anything, the line of moral ambiguity has been long thrown out the window in this company, and the last thing you will ever see me do is cater to anyone by being the nice girl. It doesn’t work like that, and it has never worked like that. So if I attacked BRAE because I fucking felt like it, we shouldn’t be looking at him like some sort of victim because he’s being coddled and pampered to be the next big STAR here in this company.
(Kassidy rolls her eyes again.)
Kassidy Heart: It’s something that I will never truly be able to understand at all. And personally, I find it stupid as fuck, but I guess we give anything to anyone nowadays, and the rest of us are left with fuck all as a result. But I was never the type of person to just… settle. I’m never okay with anything other than the main goal, and my main goal is simple, and BRAE is in the way of that. I take it real fucking personal when someone decides they think they deserve something more than me, and the way that I see it, BRAE thinks that it’s just going to be as easy as pushing me aside and going on his way, in his fucking dreams. This is not the fairy tale ending that he thinks is going to happen, no, he’s going to get massacred at my hands, and as long as Kassidy Heart had her eyes completely focused on the World Heavyweight Championship… then he’s NEVER going to get to the level that you people want out of him, and ain’t that just a damn shame. 🥺
(Kassidy exhales as she stops in pace, glaring at the hard camera pointed at her.)
Kassidy Heart: I’ve put a lot of my pride aside to be able to come to terms with this match, and even now it feels like I’m downsizing my greatness to stand across the ring at Pain for fucking Pride against this guy. But I’m not stupid, this is a must-win for me, and if I have to use this poor, unfortunate soul as a scapegoat for my own ambitions, all I have to say to that is… wouldn’t be the first time. 🤷 So I can do a lot of things, especially if it’s in the name of this company, but if anyone expects me to step aside for the next big thing and allow him to get the spotlight over me…
(Kassidy thinks to herself for a second, before nodding her head.)
Kassidy Heart: Yeah, I’d rather kill myself.
(The crowd once again begins to boo, but their reaction spins on its head as ‘ULTRA INSTINCT THEME’ by Carameii blasts through the speakers of the arena. Kassidy groans as she turns her head toward the stage, the crowd erupting for BRAE as he’s seen making his way out from the backstage area. He doesn’t waste any time, having a serious expression on his face as he begins to make his way down the ramp and toward the ring.)
Stew-O: Here comes BRAE, and he’s certainly feeling motivated after hearing everything that Kassidy has said regarding him. He has a lot to look forward to when it comes to this Pain For Pride, and I can’t imagine a bigger way to end what can be deemed a successful season than by facing someone on the caliber of Kassidy Heart.
Flannery McCoy: But at the same time, Kassidy isn’t going to make it easy for her. She’s not looking to add a blemish to her positive record, and she’s going to make sure that BRAE is put down one way or another, but at the same time, I don’t think BRAE wanted it easy at all. I think he desires the challenge out of her, and thankfully, that’s exactly what he’s going to end up getting.
Jake Mercer: Can I just say… These two are absolute crackheads. I wouldn’t want to be in the ring with either of them, and the fact that they are about to face each other next week is terrifying to me. We might need to put them in straight jackets or something.
(BRAE makes his way up the steps and onto the apron as he enters through the ropes and into the ring. He makes his way over and takes a microphone from the ringside area while ‘ULTRA INSTINCT THEME’ comes to a close. As he turns around, he approaches Kassidy, the two of them having a tense staredown for a brief, lingering moment, before BRAE raises his microphone and begins to speak.)
BRAE: I could take issue with what you said, Kassidy, or I can take it for what it is. No matter what you say, it’s not going to matter, I’m just going to put it to you like this…
(BRAE approaches Kassidy further, getting into her face with a glare.)
BRAE: I’m not going to give you a choice.
(Kassidy glares at BRAE, the two of them continuing to stare one another down, not breaking eye contact even for a moment, as BRAE continues on.)
BRAE: You talked about what you gave to this company, so I’m going to talk to you about what I did for this place as well. From the moment that I walked through these doors, I have given 110% every single time that I have stepped into this ring. When I felt like I wasn’t doing enough, I PUNISHED myself and made sure that there wasn’t a next time. It’s what’s gotten me this far in the first place, to have everything that I have under my belt, while at the same time, having the track record that I do that makes people like you jealous because it’s shoes that you want to fill. I don’t mean to sound like *that* type of person, but there is a reason why everyone around you has said everything that they have said about me, and that’s not because they want to deny you, it’s because I am WORTH the hype.
(The crowd once again begins to cheer as BRAE pauses for a moment.)
BRAE: I watched an opportunity at the World Heavyweight Championship slip away from me, and maybe I let my emotions get the better of me, but I realized that wasn’t going to solve anything. You got in my way, and maybe I have to thank you for that, but while admitting I was wrong, at the same time, I have no problem with acknowledging the truth. And the truth is that I got closer to the Pain For Pride main event this season than you *ever* did, and that, above all else, is what really grinds your gears. That it was right there, right in front of me, and you weren’t afforded the luxury even with your namesake. You forced this match out of me thinking that beating me would fix that, but even if I lose, that is *never* going to fix your deep-seated jealousy and bitterness toward the next big talent that steps into this company. And maybe whoever that is won’t be able to say that they’re better than you, but in this case… that just isn’t true.
(BRAE shakes his head, mostly in disapproval about what he’s heard from Kassidy.)
BRAE: Maybe that’s what’s driven you your entire career up to this point, but against me… that’s not going to fly. I just wanted to truly make sure that you understood that above all else so you don’t act all surprised when this doesn’t go well for you. I’m fighting for more than just the World Heavyweight Championship heading into this match, that title is my priority yes, but right now, my focus is completely on you. And when I look at you, I think of the sale of this brand. I’ve played my part just as much as you claim to in order to make this the place to be, and when someone endangers that, the last thing that I’m going to do is stand by and allow that to happen, no, I’m going to fight for this place. Dynasty is the only place that I know, and I’m not going to let anyone take that away from me just because they think the best solution is themselves. So when I look at this match, it is more than just showing who deserves to be at the top more. No, as far as I’m concerned…
(BRAE gets even closer to Kassidy.)
Kassidy Heart: I’m protecting Dynasty from YOU!
(The crowd cheers as BRAE takes his finger and presses it directly into the chest of Kassidy. The Mauler doesn’t move an inch, not phased by this whatsoever, as she raises her microphone and begins to speak.)
Kassidy Heart: *You* are protecting Dynasty from *me?* What is there to save? Is this just one big fuck you to everything that I’ve done for EAW? I’ve been here for double the time that you have and I’ve shown that I am MORE than capable of bearing the weight on my shoulder of being the very best. I mean, why wouldn’t I? I’m the greatest fucking wrestler that this company has ever seen, and pound-for-pound, nobody can even match that in their wildest dreams. I’m a proven talent, but to you… the World Heavyweight Championship is nothing but a pipe dream. Which is why I don’t understand what there is to protect when it comes to me, because if anything, I’m protecting Dynasty from being forced to see an unproven, overhyped World Champion represent their brand in one of the most mediocre displays that they’ll ever see. Which is saying a lot considering who the Champion is right now.
(Kassidy tilts her head, taking a moment to let her words sink in as the crowd once again is disapproving of what she’s said.)
Kassidy Heart: But… there seems to be some confusion here, and I’m going to give you a chance to rectify that before you *really* shoot yourself in the foot. I am not going to stop my career and step aside for someone just because they tell me to, you gotta be real fucking stupid to ask that out of me without any real thought. The truth is that I’ve already stepped aside, when I was taken out of this company for 13 months in a half-dead, vegetative state in the worst, most agonizing year of my life. They were gunna have to make sure that I was dead if they wanted me gone, and even then, that might not have been enough. So forgive me (forgive me not) for sounding like a real bitch right now, but with all that in mind, I DEFINITELY didn’t come back here to play second fiddle to someone who isn’t shit compared to me. In your fucking dreams.
(Kassidy shakes her head, a deadly serious expression on her face.)
Kassidy Heart: So I am jealous, that’s as MUCH as I’ll give you. I’m really fucking jealous that people who aren’t shit compared to me get handed the world on a silver platter while I have to work twice as hard to get what I want around here. But what I’m also not going to do is stand here and make a huge fucking scene about it, I’m going to do something about it and make sure that it’s fixed. What has brought me the most pleasure in my career is stomping out the company’s new favorite toy and showing how little they deserve the hype surrounding them, and I’m not saying that you’re anything close to Serena Bennett or Astraea Jordan, what I am saying is that you aren’t shit and nobody has truly opened your eyes to that just yet, but that’s not gunna be for long, sweetheart.
(Kassidy wags her finger, a small smirk rising on her face.)
Kassidy Heart: What a huge mistake you made trying to draw my ire, if any cautionary tale should’ve told you what not to do, it’s something like that. But you’ve always been more accustomed to being the type of person to use his head in a situation like this, not putting much thought into it. But maybe you should know that this is the biggest fucking match of your career, and I’m not going to hold your hand through it. No, if you’re not ready, then you’re gunna pay the price for your ignorance. I’m going to beat you down to a fine powder surrounded by every single person who believed in you, and I’m going to blow your dust in their face and revel in it, because Pain For Pride is my second home and nobody fucking touches me on that level.
BRAE: Except for me.
(The crowd erupts into cheers as Kassidy begins to laugh, almost as if she can’t believe the audacity right now.)
BRAE: I don’t have time to stand here and listen to you run your mouth about how little I mean to you, I already know your thoughts on me. So allow me to give you my thoughts and perspective. I don’t think that YOU are ready for what is to come next week, and you’re not going to realize it now, but you’re certainly going to realize it once that bell rings. You thought you were tough shit against Michael Machina until he turned your brain into sludge. I don’t anticipate anything different happening if you haven’t learned from your previous mistakes. I know my worth in this company, and it’s not just something that I suddenly decided upon one day, no, it’s something that I have earned through all the hard work that I have given to this place. All the blood, sweat, tears, and sacrifice that have been put on full display.
(BRAE points to the crowd, who cheers loudly.)
BRAE: I earned THEIR support, and I’m not going to let them down now that I’ve gone this far, I’m going to pick up where I left off once I beat you, and I’m going straight to the top. Perhaps it’s pretentious as hell, it doesn’t matter to me anymore, this is what I’ll say…
(BRAE approaches Kassidy, glaring at her as he continues.)
BRAE: There is nobody who deserves the World Heavyweight Championship on Friday Night Dynasty more than *me.*
(The crowd erupts into thunderous cheers as BRAE has a deadly serious look on his face, while on the other hand, Kassidy… chuckles at this. She reaches out and puts a hand on his shoulder before raising her microphone.)
Kassidy Heart: BRAE, I am going to hold your shoulder when I say this: I, Kassidy Heart, do not give a fuck.
(BRAE snickers at this, expecting as much out of someone as confident as her.)
BRAE: So be it.
(THUD!)
Stew-O: BRAE SLAMS HIS SKULL DIRECTLY INTO THE FACE OF KASSIDY HEART! KASSIDY STAGGERS BACK-
(THUD!)
Flannery McCoy: BEFORE HITTING HIM WITH A HEADBUTT OF HER OWN! AND HERE WE GO!
(THUD!)
(THUD!)
(THUD!)
(THUD!)
Jake Mercer: OW! THEY KEEP HITTING THEIR HEADS AGAINST EACH OTHER! OW! OW! OW! STOP IT! STOP IT! CONCUSSION PROTOCOL EVERYWHERE!
Stew-O: KASSIDY REELS BACK AND CRACKS A HUGE HEADBUTT AGAINST BRAE, FINALLY STAGGERING HIM BACK, AND SHE QUICKLY TAKES ADVANTAGE!
Flannery McCoy: AS SHE RUSHES FORWARD AND CLOTHESLINES HIM DIRECTLY OUT OF THE RING! AND SHE’S QUICK TO SLIDE OUT UNDER THE RING, LOOKING TO CONTINUE THE FIGHT!
Jake Mercer: KASSIDY GRABS BRAE BY THE HEAD, SLAMMING HIM AGAINST THE FRONT OF THE ANNOUNCER’S TABLE! AND NOW SHE’S CONTINUING TO DO IT OVER AND OVER AGAIN!
Stew-O: BUT BRAE GRITS HIS TEETH, CONNECTING WITH AN ELBOW TO THE MIDSECTION TO STOP THE ONSLAUGHT AND FORCE HER BACKWARD! HE THEN TURNS AROUND AND GRABS HER AROUND THE WAIST, RAMMING HER SPINEFIRST DIRECTLY INTO THE EDGE OF THE APRON!
Flannery McCoy: BRAE GRABS A HOLD OF KASSIDY AS HE TURNS HER AROUND-
(THUD!)
Jake Mercer: SENDING KASSIDY FACE FIRST AGAINST THE RING POST! KASSIDY’S HEAD BOUNCES OFF AS WE SEE A HINT OF BLOOD BEGIN TO FORM FROM A GASH ON HER FOREHEAD!
Stew-O: BUT KASSIDY REFUSES! SHE GRABS BRAE BY THE HEAD INSTEAD!
(THUD!)
Flannery McCoy: SLAMMING HIS FACE INTO THE RINGPOST IN RETURN! BEFORE TURNING HIM AROUND AND SLAMMING HIM DIRECTLY INTO THE CORNER BARRICADE TO FOLLOW THAT UP!
(Officials quickly come in, trying to stop Kassidy before she can go any further, but The Mauler shows her teeth as she snarls at them, shoving anyone in her way to the side as she approaches BRAE.)
Jake Mercer: KASSIDY RUSHES AT BRAE!
Stew-O: OH MY GOD! BRAE GRABS A HOLD OF HER FROM AROUND THE WAIST AND LIFTS HER OVER THE BARRICADE WITH A BELLY-TO-BELLY SUPLEX DIRECTLY INTO THE TIMEKEEPER’S AREA!
Flannery McCoy: KASSIDY LANDS HARD AS BRAE STAGGERS AWAY, TAKING A MOMENT TO RECOVER WHILE HE HAS THE CHANCE, BUT AT THE SAME TIME, HE HAS NO INTENTIONS OF ENDING THIS FIGHT HIMSELF!
Jake Mercer: BRAE TURNS AROUND-
Stew-O: BUT KASSIDY JUST POPPED UP FROM OUT OF THE TIMEKEEPER’S AREA! SHE WRAPS HER ARMS AROUND THE THROAT OF BRAE AND SINKS HER TEETH DIRECTLY INTO THE SIDE OF HIS HEAD!
BRAE: (Off-Mic) AGHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!
Flannery McCoy: BRAE IS SCREAMING IN PAIN AS HE’S THRASHING AROUND, DRAGGING KASSIDY OUT FROM THE TIMEKEEPER’S AREA AND TURNING HER AROUND!
Jake Mercer: AS HE RAMS HER SPINEFIRST INTO THE RINGPOST!
Stew-O: BUT KASSIDY CONTINUES TO STAY LATCHED ON! SHE HAS HER TEETH PLUNGED RIGHT INTO HIS CHEEK AS BRAE CONTINUES TO TRY AND FIGHT OUT OF IT!
Flannery McCoy: BUT FINALLY MORE NUMBERS HAVE COME IN HAS COME IN! SECURITY AND A NUMBER OF TALENT ARE GRABBING KASSIDY AND YANKING HER OFF OF BRAE, AS SHE’S KICKING AND SCREAMING, TRYING TO BREAK HERSELF FREE AND CONTINUE WITH THIS FIGHT!
Jake Mercer: BRAE IS EAGER TOO, BUT HE’S BEING HELD BACK, AND WHAT A WAY TO GO INTO PAIN FOR PRIDE NEXT WEEK! THIS IS GOING TO BE A BRAWL!
(BRAE is gritting his teeth as he tries to break himself free from the officials, shouting at Kassidy and doing everything that he can to try and get his hands on her. On the other hand, The Mauler has a sinister grin on her face, wiping her blood soaked face and licking her lips, certainly having no good intentions for her opponent once Pain For Pride comes around.)
Kassidy Heart: (Muttering) He’s dead…
(The last shot seen is both Kassidy and BRAE being escorted toward different areas of the arena, all while Friday Night Dynasty begins to fade away from there.)
(A commercial is shown for Kassidy Heart versus BRAE at Pain For Pride.)
(‘Razorface’ by Celldweller can be heard across the speakers as the audience allows for their mixed reactions to be heard, with David Gideon Smith emerging from the back. His face remains obstructed from view with his cloak, as he methodically paces down the ramp with his gaze set toward the ring.)
Stephie Love: Ladies & gentlemen, please welcome… ‘THE SOVEREIGN’, DAVID GIDEOOOOOOOOOOOON SMITH!!!
Stew-O: David Gideon Smith has certainly solidified himself continuously, as he has been frequenting competition against all kinds of facets across EAW, from the less experienced to the Hall of Famers where he’s now one victory away from immense glory!
Flannery McCoy: That much is certain, David has kept himself busy in this company & he does not intend on slowing down, as he’s up against quite possibly the biggest possible opponent to face in such a spectacle!
(David remains in his lonesome as the music slowly dies down, with a slight exhale.)
David Gideon Smith: …Finality… Quite the beautiful thing, isn’t it?
(David develops a small grin as he slowly paces around in place.)
David Gideon Smith: The end does not need to be understood in such a debilitating light, rarely do you ever see a career come to a close on such forgiving terms. To be released from your obligations in the manner that you’d much prefer to do so, by letting all of this go when you best see fit & allow for the next course of action to be taken on its own. You have been through enough of the wars, enough of the battles, they take just a little bit from you in the moment—but all of these moments in time, they steadily build up ‘till that wear & tear ultimately brings itself down upon you. You have been able to live a career that many would envy, and how can I fault them for believing as much…? The gold you adorn, and all of the glory you could’ve possibly experienced when this became everything to attain. You were able to make everything happen one way or another, and that’s not all…
(David slowly shakes his head.)
David Gideon Smith: You know how it’s like to stay away from the noise, for an extended period of time. You’ve been able to take the time to stay back, to relish in the moments that you were able to appropriately spend the days in your own little piece of Heaven. Got to find yourself growing comfortable in that timeframe, yet… Here you are. Been able to situate yourself quite comfortably back into the fold, and now you’re seeing yourself from a standpoint where you’ve essentially experienced both perspectives as is…
David Gideon Smith: With that being said, you’ve invited some of that feeling as we head toward Pain for Pride. The spectacle of the end, I’d say it’s more than worthwhile when we consider how you may be able to experience that measure of peace all over again. Yet, as all of this continues to shift further along… This finality, can bring upon just as much recklessness. Many in your position would, without a shadow of a doubt, try to go down swinging in a fit of glory. To show that they can amass much of the wherewithal that got them so far in the dance in the first place… But this…?
(David shakes his own head further as he paces along.)
David Gideon Smith: This is much more demoralizing on your behalf, Brian. Safe to say, this will end up looking like a much more sad endeavor for you to partake in. Eventually, your time will truly come where you are put back down, Brian… This will be an ending, many will be entirely unable to look back upon fondly…
(‘Dragonborn’ by Jeremy Soule can be heard blaring throughout the speakers as the audience reacts loudly for the arrival of Brian Daniels. Daniels emerges from the back with a smile on his face, gazing outward to the crowd before making his way down the ramp as he’s then situated on the ring, with David glaring toward him as he speaks.)
Brian Daniels: You know…? You certainly are quite the enigmatic figure, aren’t you? You’ve been able to speak up quite the prospect pertaining to our match, and I can’t blame you there too much either. We have seen your ability to truly invoke people to stoop to the low points, but my mind is a much stronger focus than you’d ever believe, David. We have our fair share of elitists around here who are more than inclined to present exactly who they are—exactly why I will say much to you, David.
(Brian takes a steady step forward, looking up toward David.)
Brian Daniels: At the end of the day, you’re still human, David. Everyone has their own ways of being met with the shorter end of tje stick. You’ve already had your own slip ups, and you’ve made more than enough mistakes that can be scouted as vulnerable for plenty of people. You can talk to absolutely anyone that you’d like, perhaps nothing more can emerge from this other than one clear, simple fact…
(Brian remains standing exactly where he is, as he develops a small grin.)
Brian Daniels: You’re still just as much of a cocky bastard as you’ve always been, and you’re gonna just have to acknowledge that much when you’re left with nothing more than that statement. Initially, I did not have any qualms with how my career ended. I did accomplish a great deal, and I’ve seen myself becoming something so much bigger than simply me. But all of this…? Every single last bit of this…? Now more than ever before, I’ve been rushing with all of the adrenaline behind not suffering another defeat. Especially…
(Brian points the finger, as he’s looking directly at David.)
Brian: Not to you, of all people… I won’t allow for any of your games to get the better of me, David.
(David chuckles under his breath, as he shakes his own head and sighs.)
David Gideon Smith: Well, Brian… It won’t matter much anyhow… Sooner or later, we’ll understand exactly what the statement being made has always been.
(He looks down upon Brian with a larger grin, as he slowly nods>
David Gideon Smith: The clock has struck, Brian… It’s time for you to leave.
(Brian lowers his head briefly, slowly nodding to himself as he develops a slight grin, turning himself away as he continues to nod.)
Stew-O: AND NOW A FOREARM FROM BRIAN DANIELS! AND ANOTHER! AND ANOTHER! David is being pushed back immensely as Brian is refusing to slow down, sending every single forearm against David as he’s tired of the words being shared between them! Enough is enough now!
Flannery McCoy: ‘TILL DAVID SHOVES HIM OFF—BUT DANIELS SENDS A KICK THAT DROPS DAVID DOWN TO A KNEE! Gideon Smith is in trouble as Brian is now backing away, nodding to himself as he’s looking to seek out the RUNNING LEG LARIAT—
Jake Mercer: ‘THE BLACK BLADE’!!! DAVID GIDEON SMITH TAKES BRIAN DANIELS DOWN WITH ABSOLUTE AUTHORITY! Brian is down & out as David is wide eyes, and he’s refusing to let any of this end from here!
Stew-O: AS HE DROPS DOWN—AND APPLIES A CROSSFACE!!! INSULT TO INJURY IS BEING APPLIED HERE AS BRIAN DANIELS IS TRAPPED IN THE CROSSFACE, WITH DAVID REFUSING TO LET GO! NOW THE GUARDS ARE SPILLING OUT! DAVID SENDS THE MESSAGE BEFORE PAIN FOR PRIDE!
(The guards are tugging on David in mass ‘till he finally lets go, bringing himself upward as Brian Daniels has passed out & is left visibly unconscious. David Gideon Smith stands tall in his lonesome as his hands are raised, nodding to the work done just before Pain for Pride as the scene soon fades.)
(The scene fades into a zoomed in shot of the ‘Cash in the Vault’ briefcase hanging above the ring. Then soon after, Fire & Ice’s music hits! Raven Roberts and Rex McAllister walk out together. They make their way down the ramp, soaking in the crowd reaction before sliding into the ring and grabbing microphones.)
Raven Roberts: Let’s get this out of the way and address the elephant in the room. The tag match that happened on Voltage. Things got a little chaotic toward the end and I already know there are people backstage, and especially people right here in this Cash in the Vault field match, who want to take that one moment and blow it completely out of proportion.
Rex McAllister: I am here to say right now, that it was an accident. That’s all it ever needs to be called, and all it should be called by anyone. I know that these people are looking to jump on this, looking to paint this as some sort of crack in our armor. But unlike most of the people in this company and in this match, Fire and Ice know how to keep our composure. We don’t get distracted by every little thing that happens around us, we move forward and we adapt.
Raven Roberts: We have been the biggest and most consistent team in this entire company for years now. The second thing doesn’t go absolutely perfectly, people want to act like the wheels are falling off and that we are going to turn our backs on everything we have built together. But we aren’t, we are together until the very end.
(Rex nods along, gesturing toward the crowd as if inviting them to agree. The two of them stand shoulder to shoulder.)
Rex McAllister: So if anyone out there has something to say about what happened on Voltage, we are right here and would love to hear your opinion on the matter.
(A slight pause and then Harper Lee’s music cuts through the momentary silence. She steps out alone, arms crossed, a smirk forming as she walks down the ramp. She grabs a microphone at ringside before climbing up onto the apron and facing the couple.)
Harper Lee: Wow, I mean that was beautiful. I mean truly, I am tearing up.
(The crowd reacts with boos as Harper steps through the ropes and stands across from Fire and Ice, looking between the two of them.)
Harper Lee: Are people really supposed to buy that? I mean, maybe they would because they are idiots. But I mean, listen to yourselves. You’re standing out here more concerned with protecting the image of your happy little “partnership” than actually addressing what actually happened. That tells me everything I need to know about where your priorities are heading into this match. A match that could change the course of any one of your careers for next season.
Raven Roberts: Is that right?
Harper Lee: That is right, and I know you’re too stupid to figure it out so I’m going to tell you. Because while you stand here and talk about consistency and composure than admit that something is actually wrong between the two of you. In your mind you know that you aren’t willing to put your own ambitions behind Rex, and Rex isn’t going to play second fiddle to you either. You both are ready to explode and both are too delusional to outright say it.
(Raven steps forward, getting into Harper’s space, her tone sharpening.)
Raven Roberts: Really insightful analysis, but maybe you should have the same concern with your own man. Last I checked, you were standing out here all by yourself tonight. What’s your opinion on that, hm?
(The crowd reacts loudly to that, Harper’s smirk falters for just a moment before hardening.)
Harper Lee: That’s cute, really cute, Raven. But I’m not the one out here searching for low hanging fruit in order to ignore the inevitable downfall that is coming real soon.
(Rex stepping in beside Raven.)
Rex McAllister: You’re one to talk, you’ve made a career out of doing just that.
(Harper’s eyes flash toward Rex, the tension in the ring thickening. Before she can fire back, Vincent Mondarian’s music hits and he walks out, shaking his head the entire way down the ramp, looking unimpressed by everything he is hearing. He grabs a mic, sliding into the ring.)
Vincent Mondarian: This is stupid, all of this talking is completely pointless.
(He stands at a slight distance from the other three, looking at each of them in turn.)
Harper Lee: Oh, now you want to come out here and jump in? At least try to keep your emotions in check, Vincent. Unlike some people out here, I know you will actually act on it. For better or for worse.
Vincent Mondarian: Like you were controlling your emotion so well a second ago? Don’t act like you weren’t right there with her, throwing shots just as much.
(Harper opens her mouth to argue but stops herself, rolling her eyes instead. Vincent turns his attention to Fire and Ice.)
Vincent Mondarian: But she’s right about one thing, you two look pretty miserable standing out here trying to convince thousands of people that nothing is wrong between you. So here’s an idea, let’s be honest with each other. Let’s be selfish when we talk about Cash in the Vault. Because at the end of the day this is every single person for themselves in this match, and I want everyone in this ring to understand something right now. And I mean EVERYONE…
(He turns directly toward Harper.)
Vincent Mondarian: I am not going to hold back when it comes to you, not for old times’ sake or the sake of some alliance. Not for anything, because this moment is what I’ve been fighting for this entire time and nobody is going to stop me.
(Harper holds his gaze for a long moment, something unreadable passing between them. Harper scoffs, and then shrugs nonchalantly.)
Harper Lee: Wouldn’t expect you to.
(Before either of them can say more, Jay Jerry Johnson’s music plays and he comes storming out, microphone already in hand, talking before he even reaches the ring.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: Is this supposed to be one big yap session? Because I’ve got better things to do than stand out here listening to everybody air out their personal grievances and talk about who is going to do what!
(He slides into the ring, pointing up at the CITV briefcase hanging high above.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: Everybody wants to pick apart the smallest little things. Who said what to who, who’s mad at who, and who is on each other’s side and who is not. Let me tell you, none of that matters! The only thing that matters is what’s hanging above this ring! And let me tell you something, I don’t care about any of the drama that has seeped its way into this match. Because it won’t stop me from walking out of Pain for Pride with that briefcase—
(A new theme hits, and Damon Lazarus emerges from the back, walking with an unsettling calm that immediately shifts the energy of the entire arena. He takes the ramp at his own pace, eyes locked on the ring the entire time. Mic raises once he reaches the ring apron.)
Damon Lazarus: Foolishness.
(Jay turns, caught off guard.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: Excuse me?
(Stepping through the ropes.)
Damon Lazarus: Your anger, It’s foolishness. All of your anger is foolishness.
(He walks to the center of the ring, looking around at all five of them in turn, unbothered by the hostility radiating from every direction.)
Damon Lazarus: There is a lot of hoping in this ring right now, a lot of praying, and a lot of wishing that all of your seasons can somehow end on some kind of miraculous high note. But I am here to tell you that they won’t. I walked into this company and I have already shaken the very fabric of EAW to its core. That briefcase belongs to me, nobody standing in this ring is going to stop that from happening.
(A beat of silence before Raven scoffs loudly.)
Raven Roberts: Real cocky for someone who’s been here all of five minutes, you really think you out of anyone in this ring has what it takes to win that briefcase.
Damon Lazarus: Think? I know I do.
Harper Lee: Oh come on, just because you got this coward Jay to flinch backstage doesn’t mean it’s actually going to work when it counts, in front of everybody, when that bell rings.
Vincent Mondarian: She’s right, we all know how much of a pussy Jay is. But I can confidently say that everyone else in this match has stronger wills than him.
(Jay’s composure finally snaps entirely.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: That’s it! I am done listening to this!
(Jay lunges at Damon and the ring immediately explodes into chaos! Punches fly from every direction as Harper and Raven collide near the ropes, Rex and Vincent get tangled together near the corner, and Damon and Jay crash hard into the turnbuckles!)
(In the middle of the chaos, Rex winds up and throws a wild punch— ONLY FOR RAVEN TO STUMBLE DIRECTLY INTO IT’S PATH!)
…
…
…
…
(He catches himself at the last possible second, pulling the strike inches from connecting! Before either of them can fully process what almost happened, the brawl sweeps them both up, pulling them apart in opposite directions as security finally begins pouring down the ramp trying to restore order!)
(The camera holds on the chaos as bodies continue colliding in every direction, a graphic shows for the Pain for Pride match as the chaotic scene fades to commercials.)
(A commercial plays for Pain for Pride, advertising the CITV match!)
(‘Apostles’ Warning’ by Mobb Deep blares out. The fans cheer as Michael Machina comes down to the ring. There’s no pay berry or joy; just straight to business—especially with Michael’s irritation palpable as the cameras get several close-up shots of him.)
Stephie Love: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome at this time, the EAW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION: MIIIIIICHAAAAAAAEEEEEEL MAAAAAAAACHHIIIIIIIINAAAAAAAAA!
Stew-O: Wow, can certainly cut the tension from him with a knife, huh, guys?
Jake Mercer: :lupe: !! Well, Michael has hinted that he’s tired of the games and sheningans. He believes the demeanors of both Cy Henderson and Drake King, especially given their history, has been beneath the caliber of this match and he’s been strung in the middle. He doesn’t want for their issues to overshadow him and the championship—and he damn sure doesn’t want either of them to be controlling any narratives heading into Pain for Pride.
Flannery McCoy: Michael has earned his second consecutive Pain for Pride main event, and he’s eager to get the win given that last year he lost against Adam Lucas while entering as the defending EAW World Champion. There’s a sizable chip on his shoulder, but one he’s intent on throwing off himself.
(In the ring, Michael asks for a microphone and is given one. His theme fades, and the fans cheer before he gets to speaking.)
Michael Machina: So… it has all led to this, huh? The end of the season, another main event for yours truly, and while the past few weeks, and really, months, have been bogged by a lot of petty shit… I can stand here and say I look forward to what awaits me next week.
Michael Machina: Season 20 is on the cusp. When I first began competing for EAW, I was just a guy who was big and gruff; I made my money being a bouncer along with some other hustles on the side that made use of my size, and I knew what it was like to work hard through that. Wouldn’t say I sought to become an all-time great right off the bat, but I damn sure knew I was gonna do everything it took to make it far, ‘cause I never had any handouts in my life. I got buy through the world thanks to my stubbornness and never settling for less. And hey, I get it–not exactly ground-breaking ideals to have. However, I’m of the camp that just because something’s simple doesn’t mean it isn’t true. Maybe that’s why I’ve been able to have the success that I’ve gotten all throughout my career.
Michael Machina: I’m not like Drake King who needs to switch up his moniker every six months in order to feel good about himself. I’m not Cy Henderson who felt like he had to come back and exorcise some demons and pretend his own ego didn’t get in his damn way. I herald myself as the New Legend because I’m not like everyone else. I’m me, always been me, and what you see is what you get—and from the looks of things, it seems like me keeping shit real has allowed me to endear myself to all of you.
(The fans cheer in approval, netting a small smirk from the champ.)
Michael Machina: Yeah. Thought so. Who knew being able to be *actually* respected would come from just not blowing smoke up in people’s asses and insulting their intelligence? The sad part is, I held on to a small bit of hope for these two. I thought that Cy wouldn’t stoop to petty means, and yeah, I even held some measure of hope for Drake that regardless of the ill sentiments, he would at least be an opponent worth being excited over. Yet, it’s been one headache after the other, and I have to say: this may be the worst build up to a marquee match I’ve had in my career.
Crowd: :lupe: :lupe: !!
Jake Mercer: Wowie.
Michael Machina: I know. Not supposed to say that, but at this rate? I’m just wanting for this match to be over and done with. It’s supposed to be a great honor for me to go up against two legends; instead, we’re having to deal with something that is a cross between catty highschool bullshit, mental breakdowns, and even Drake doing what he does best and playing the victim when he’s the reason there’s been all this damn turmoil in the first place. Never before have I seen a group of people who are supposed to set the bar high behave like entitled rookies, but it is what it is. This is what Pain for Pride is all about, right? Scorching the earth and doing the most just so that someone can feel better about themselves. Still, it’s not going to be to any of their benefit. At this point, EAW is my promotion. Dynasty is my show. And this title? It damn sure is mine.
(Michael raises the title for further emphasis, sparking a wave of cheers—)
(Then, ‘POV’ by Clipse and Tyler the Creator blares out. Cy Henderson comes storming out, mic in hand, shaking his head.)
Stew-O: Well, it looks like Cy may be in huge disagreement over the champ’s words!
Jake Mercer: Pfft. Ya think? His face is more than doing all the talking for him already!
Flannery McCoy: This is not going to be good….
(In the ring he enters, immediately cutting a sharp look at Michael, who eyes him up and down, as if to say—)
Michael Machina: Fuck are you looking at me like that for?
(Well. He said it anyways.)
(As one can imagine, though, Cy is not appreciative of the brazenness.)
Cy Henderson: Really, Michael? That’s what you’re going? Labeling me as some petty ass child in all of this when I have made it clear this is beyond me and Drake? Hell, I’m pretty certain I made it know I don’t particularly care to entertain the crybaby aspects of Mr. King, but then again, things go in one ear and out the other with you—kind of like how one Pain for Pride match comes and passes without you winning it.
(The fans gasp. Michael blinks. Head tilts slightly, brows knitting together while a look of disbelief slowly crawls past his face.)
Michael Machina: Excuse me?
Cy Henderson: You heard me loud and clear. I don’t know why you speak in the way that you do, Michael, but I never had any issues with you. If anything? You’re the one intent on trying to force out these grievances you can contrive against me because maybe the fact that the obvious point in this match does leave you out, and as the world champion, you just can’t have that, can you? But you want to talk about pettiness? What’s petty is that you trying to drum up this imaginary beef or pretend everything is one sided on my behalf. I think that does all of the talking for you. You want that heat; you want a reason to make this bigger than it even has to, and frankly? I’m tired.
(Cy scowls, stepping right on up to the champion.)
Cy Henderson: You haven’t learned. You can’t change the game when you’re not willing to sharpen up your own game plan. In fact, I’d argue you’re the immature one here, because rather than come here with the poise of the world champion, you stormed in and demanded people to take you seriously as if you’re still a rookie here. Then again, given your track record at this show, maybe I shouldn’t fault you for being a bit sensitive.
Michael Machina: Yeah? And need I remind you you barely even got to enter this season as the world heavyweight champion because two men allowed for their emotions to get the better of them? I honestly don’t care what you have to say on the matter, Cy. God forgive me for being this petty, but might as well put it as bluntly as I can: nobody gives a FUCK about no “Drake King” or “Cy Henderson” main eventing Pain for Pride in 2026. Fuck you two, and I cannot wait to be done with this season!
(The fans explode for the champion’s words. Cy just stares at him, even admits the growing “Michael!” chants.)
Cy Henderson: Yeah? Well, I can’t wait to be done with this myself. Can’t wait to reclaim my title and set things right away. I certainly can’t wait to show to everyone once more that the future does not carry on in spite of the Cyclone; cycles come and go, but I will never truly go away. It’s about time I shut you and that egomaniac up once and for all…
(… then, Cy’s words trail. Confusion strikes his features .Michael raises a brow but then, a silent moment of understanding comes from him.)
Cy Henderson: … as a matter of fact?
(Then, the fans get loud.)
Cy Henderson: Where the hell is Drake? Is he still pouting?
(Louder.)
Michael Machina: Beats me.
(Screams.)
Michael Machina: But you know what? He can get hit with a truck for all I ca—
(CRACK!!!!)
Stew-O: OH! KENDO STICK! KENDO STICK! DRAKE KING CAME OUT OF NOWHERE AND STRUCK MICHAEL MACHINA WITH IT AND THE CHAMPION DROPS TO HIS KNEES! CY WHIPS AROUND—
(CRAAAAACK!!)
Jake Mercer: HE GETS A SHOT TO THE STOMACH!!!
Flannery McCoy: BOTH MEN ARE DOWN!
(Drake King, absolutely incensed, passes around and drops the broken kendo stick. Michael and Cy are hurting. In the wake of his anger, he grabs a microphone and screams into it.)
Drake King: I’VE HAD IT! I HAD IT WITH ALL OF THIS! I AM DONE BEING CRUCIFIED, DONE BEING DONE WRONG, DONE WITH YOU TWO MORONS SLANDERING MY NAME ANY CHANCE YOU GET! THIS ISN’T ABOUT BEING PETTY! THIS IS ABOUT ME—ME!—NOT BEING ABLE TO GET A FAIR CHANCE AT ANYTHING, AND YET, YOU DARE TO CONTINUE TO INSULT ME LIKE THIS?!
Stew-O: HE HAS SNAPPED! HE MOUNTS CY AND TRIES TO ATTACK HIM WITH THE MICROPHONE!
Jake Mercer: CY GETS HIT BUT MANAGES TO PUSH HIM OFF! HE’S STUMBLING UP AND MANAGES TO TACKLE HIM! NOW HE’S PUNCHING!
Flannery McCoy: OH MY!
Drake King: I HATE YOU, CY! I HATE YOU FOR EVERYTHING! YOU WERE NEVER SUPPOSED TO WALK AWAY THAT NIGHT!
Cy Henderson: FUCK YOU, DRAKE! YOU DRAMATIC, CRAZY PSYCHO!
Stew-O: BOTH MEN ARE UP AND BRAWLING! THEY’RE NEARING THE ROPES, AND…!!!!
Jake Mercer: LOOK OUT!!!
(CRAAAAAAAAASSHHHH!!!)
Jake Mercer: BULLET FROM HELL! MICHAEL SENDS HIMSELF, CY AND DRAKE THROUGH THE MIDDLE ROPES AND THEY ALL GO CRASHING TO THE OUTSIDE FLOORING!
Crowd: HO-LY SHIT! HO-LY SHIT! HO-LY SHIT!
(And the sight is almost grizzly, as Drake, Cy and Michael lay battered and nearly contorted on the floor. Medical personnel immediately rush in to assist all three men.)
Flannery McCoy; OH MY GOD! WHAT CARNAGE! I… ARE THEY GOING TO BE ALRIGHT?!
(Mutual hate amongst them have led to this—and the final shot shows the future opponents barely conscious as they’re tended to before Friday Night Dynasty fades for the final time to black for season 19.)
(EAW logo buzzes.)