(EAW intro plays.)
(A recap is shown of last week’s Voltage. Once again the highlights of the night are shown, and as the recap video package ends, the camera opens up to the Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield, Missouri. Here, thousands of fans are seen cheering, while the opening pyro for Sunday Night Voltage shoots out from the stage. As the excitement continues, the camera fades towards the commentary table where Rich Russillo, Thadd Blazevich and Persephone are seen.)
Rich Russillo: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to Voltage! As we all know Territorial Invasion is on the horizon, and tonight we continue building towards it as Jay Jerry Johnson takes on Kai Rabeaux!
Thadd Blazevich: We also got a big trios match, featuring three Brand Warfare participants and three who’ll be facing off at TI! This is a night for awesome matches, I’ll tell ya that.
Persephone: There’s nothing exciting about this show, so let’s just get this over with so I can get out of here.
(The mounted camera would move throughout The Great Southern Bank Arena, the crane passing by attendees and showcasing the capacity crowd that had accumulated in Springfield, Missouri; but the cinematography could never replicate the effect that ‘The Leaving Song Pt. II’ by AFI had on them. The camera looked to show just how packed this venue was, but Hans Grayson’s iconic theme music did it for the production crew as immediately the entire venue hopped to their feet.)
(On the stage entered The Champion, the waist-worn crown glistening in the spotlights, a microphone in his hand. His expression said it all, a lot was on his mind and it wasn’t a night for celebration. Deep inside he would love it if every week of his Championship reign was celebrated with the people that guided him here but tonight he looked to address one man in particular, and that took priority over basking in just how good it felt to be Champion. That would be saved for another night. In his mind, that night would be the weekend of September 19th-20th.)
(Hans stepped up the ring steps before entering through the ropes, his sneakers brushed against the white canvas to show the respect he no doubt oozed for this sport that he loved.)
(Especially considering his opponent for Territorial Invasion was challenging that very respect.)
(‘The Leaving Song Pt. II’ began to fade out, as Hans spoke into the microphone.)
Hans Grayson: After all these years that EAW has been around it seems a bit stereotypical for a Champion like me to come out and say that I’m getting a bit tired of how I’m treated with the Championship over my shoulder, and in a way I get it. This is how it’s supposed to be, friends and allies go down the drain the moment you have the top prize – it’s all fun and games until everybody is aiming for one thing and you’re the one with it in your hands. But I’m also not going to pretend like I’m some emotionless freak who takes everything in stride and is the perfect machine to sustain every single possible downside to this World Championship reign. I understood that it’d come with ups and downs and that it was my goal to find the silver lining in order to make this reign truly special, and that’s what I plan on doing; but that still doesn’t change the fact that my reaction to the business between myself and Jay is no doubt justified. I won’t play the victim — again, I get it; when *this* is on the line all bets are off, and I entirely plan on being the one to enforce that fact. Jay… *all bets are off.*
Hans Grayson: I’m tired of challenger after challenger after challenger looking to to blindside me, I’m not wearing the bullseye on my back, I’m proudly flaunting it for the world to see; I’m tired of challenger after challenger after challenger looking to sneak up from behind, I want you face-to-face and I want it done my way. You made your point, Jay. You’re just “doing as you must,” as you put it, that’s just the culture around here now. The only thing that matters is the World Championship, all that ever has mattered, only now it doesn’t matter how you get over that hurdle so long as it happens. I get why, in an era where we’re never going to see a 10-time World Champion again due to the sheer amount of potential Champions, you gotta do whatever it takes, but there’s a difference between you and me. I had the Cash in the Vault briefcase in my hand and made it a mission to fight my way to the top. There’s a reason I’m the Champion, Jay, and you’re gonna learn that lesson.
(Hans paced around the ring, emotions as flared as the collar on his jacket; tension as saturated as the gold around his waist. Hans didn’t call himself “The Dragon” for the sake of a fancy nickname – he respected the heritage of professional wrestling and embraced what built the steps to get here, he wasn’t ever going to use the Cash in the Vault as a golden ticket, even through injury he fought to this position and as he comes face-to-face with the ideals of Jay Jerry Johnson, now seemed like the perfect time to enforce his own. Hans wanted to spread his wings and defend the throne in the very same way that he earned it, and if Jay was going to tell him that he’s wrong for feeling this way, it wasn’t a surprise that Hans looked to stand his ground.)
Hans Grayson: I’m ready for Territorial Invasion. I’m ready for the Jay Jerry Johnson that will stoop to each and every possible low just to get over the hurdle, because I’m going to step over him and continue showing exactly why I’m in this position, exactly why I’ve been in this position three times over in my career, and why that isn’t going to slow down. Territorial Invasion will end the same way last week ended, The Champ standing tall after firing at the bullseye on his opponents’ front. I’m not planning on being a sitting duck, you want it come get it – I’m taking on all comers, no matter who they are or how they fight, and if you think you can prove me wrong, come try.
(The Champion’s pacing continued, but it wasn’t long before he was interrupted by an all too familiar voice…)
???: I get it, Hans.
(Hans’ attention turned to the stage, where the obvious and expected Jay Jerry Johnson made his presence known. With his arms behind his back he stepped through the curtains, slow in his mannerisms, calmly approaching his opponent at Territorial Invasion. With the microphone in his hand, Jay continued to speak as he stepped to the top of the ramp.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: I understand what you’re trying to do. When I told you how *I* felt about this whole deal — what it takes to become Champion, or more accurately, the people who are willing to do anything it takes to become Champion — I wasn’t expecting you to agree. This isn’t about right and wrong just yet, at least when it comes to how you view this reign of yours. It’s most definitely wrong if you think that Territorial Invasion will mirror last week. It’s much easier to get one over the other when all you’re focused on is talking, that much I have shown throughout these last few weeks and if that were to gauge how our match would go down it’d be in my favour. What makes this different is the things that I have learned from my previous World Championship opportunities. Opportunities against a man you are very familiar with in Drake Armstrong, way back at Grand Rampage. That night, I failed to do what you did only two months later. That night, I failed to do what you eventually succeeded in doing. That night, I wasn’t willing to do anything to get to the top; though I most definitely thought I was. In a way I very much thought like you. I thought that if I gave it my best shot and did it “my way” then I would make it over the hurdle, but that isn’t how Drake Armstrong became Champion now, is it?
Jay Jerry Johnson: It isn’t how Jake became Champion. It isn’t how Charlie became Champion. It isn’t how Drake became Champion, or anyone before him — and in a way, it’s exactly how you should and could have become Champion much, much earlier. I made my mistakes, and as a result, I had to watch you raise that World Championship above your head in the main event of Pain For Pride all the while I struggled and starved, eye twitching in jealousy knowing that moment could very much have been mine. I don’t plan on making that same mistake twice, Hans. I don’t plan on letting you succeed at my expense, I don’t plan on watching you reap the rewards of my own mistakes all so you can push this narrative that the Fire Breathing Dragon is an honourable hero who fights until the bitter end; because there’s two types of people. The people who fight until the bitter end… and the people that inflict that bitter end.
(Jay paused, as did Hans — the Champion was listening attentively. Hans was a man of his word, he had no desire to butt in just yet, he got his chance, now must Jay.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: I understand you will fight fire with fire, Hans. But you don’t know what you’re getting into. I’m not going to stop. I’m not going to stop until I’m the Champion, and I’m going to do what you refused to do. Take my opportunity, and do it for myself.
(At last… Jay was done. Hans shook his head.)
Hans Grayson: Again, I get why you think this way Jay, I’m not naive nor am I so narcissistic that I believe it’s my way or the highway, but the fact of the matter is I’ve proven that my way can take me to the top, and you’ve proven that your way doesn’t. As you said, I did something you couldn’t—
Jay Jerry Johnson: Yes, Hans. You did.
(But Jay really wasn’t like Hans. The attentive listener was cut off by the brash young challenger.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: But I’m not the same man then as I am now. And I’ll prove it. Tonight. By doing something you COULDN’T.
(He paused.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: I’m going to beat Kai Rabeaux. Poetic, in a way. This all started with you taking advantage of my mistakes. Now I’m going to exploit yours to show the world just how far I’ve come.
(Jay smirked.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: I hope you’re watching… “Champ.”
(Jay dropped the mic, turning his back to the Champion as he turned to leave. Hans let out a sigh, but they both had said all they needed to. Hans was no doubt going to keep his eyes on the main event tonight. For what it’s worth Jay could absolutely make good on his promise, but whether he does or doesn’t, it doesn’t change anything for the Fire Breathing Dragon.)
(Hans was here to stamp his name on EAW permanently, and he was going to do it with the World Championship.)
(Moments later… the broadcast faded elsewhere.)
(Promotional ad for Territorial Invasion, where Hans Grayson defends the EAW World Championship against Jay Jerry Johnson.)
(The scene fades back to show a ringside shot where Captain Charisma can be seen already inside the ring. “Self Help Tape” by Moses Sumney plays in the background, before he motions for the music to be cut. Captain Charisma looks around at the crowd before he places the microphone in his hand closer to mouth and starts to speak up.)
Captain Charisma: How is everyone in Springfield doing here tonight?!?
(The crowd cheers loudly as Captain Charisma looks around a bit before motioning the crowd to settle down a bit before he continues on.)
Captain Charisma: Now, I’m out here to speak on a certain situation that’s been going on for a couple weeks here on Sunday Night Voltage… We all remember how Diamond and Cosmo Goldworthy would join forces to try and conquer the tag team division. We also remember the great matches these two had as a team, but we also cannot leave out the fact that a few weeks back Diamond made her decision to focus on her own singles career. She walked away from her former partner, though she did so in violent fashion. Obviously that did not leave Cosmo pleased, and thus the two had an argument we all saw backstage during a photoshoot for Diamond.
Captain Charisma: Both Elitists had a conversation about Diamond’s decision which did not seem to be the answer that Cosmo was looking for when he felt insulted by her answer. With that furthering the tension between the two, the breaking point was when we unfortunately had to see Cosmo resort to violence outside of this wrestling ring when he threw a camera directly at Diamond. Things did not ease up with either of them last week either when we saw Cosmo come out during Diamond’s match and cost her the fatal four way match. Now, things have clearly gotten out of hand and will probably continue to do so, as the commissioner of this brand, it seems fitting that perhaps these two elitists can come out here tonight, have a conversation with me, and hear what I have to say about this whole situation! So without further to do… Diamond Dixon and Cosmo Goldworthy, can you both please come out here to this ring, and let’s have a conversation about everything that’s been happening between the both of you!
(With the arena erupting into cheers from what Captain Charisma had to say, the crowd waits patiently as ‘Nice To Meet Yah” by Asian Doll starts to play from the P.A system in the arena, and the fans have a mixed reaction of cheers and boos while Diamond Dixon makes her way inside the ring. Captain Charisma helps her get inside the ring by lowering the middle rope as both Diamond and Captain Charisma stand inside the ring.)
(While both are standing inside the ring, Diamond Dixon’s theme song slowly fades out, and quickly being replaced by ‘RUNITUP’ by Tyler The Creator ft. Teezo Touchdown as Cosmo Goldworthy slowly makes his way down the ramp. Both Diamond and Captain Charisma turn around to see Cosmo eventually make his way inside the ring as both Diamond Dixon and Cosmo Goldworthy stand across one another as both look at each other and then stare back at Captain Charisma with Cosmo’s theme song fading out.)
Captain Charisma: Thank you both for coming out here to have a conversation. I know things have been pretty heated between you two.
Cosmo Goldworthy: You think? What are we even doing right now? Whole thing feels like a waste of time.
Diamond Dixon: Well if you’d shut up and let him speak, we’d find out. Maybe it’ll make me beating your ass more satisfying.
(Both Diamond Dixon and Cosmo Goldworthy clearly are on the brink of the tension between them being at a breaking point and going at each other once again like last week as Captain Charisma gets between them and speaks up again.)
Captain Charisma: I think it is pretty much VERY clear here that the two of you want to go at each other and throw to the side the wrestling in exchange of just an absolute brawl where you both can punish each other as much as you please in order to put one another in their place, isn’t that right? Well then, I think I have a solution here that will not only just be beneficial for the both of you, but also help Sunday Night Voltage’s side of things pick up even more steam! See, at Territorial Invasion, Diamond Dixon and Cosmo Goldworthy will have an opportunity to face each other in a one on one match where they will be able to do whatever they want to each other!
(The fans begin cheering, but Captain Charisma quickly continues.)
Captain Charisma: That’s not all, because this sort of tension you both have can’t just be disputed and handled with a normal match… No, no, no. At Territorial Invasion you two will be facing each other in a Hardcore Warfare Match, and that’s not all. The winner of this match will have a EAW Hardcore Championship match at Wicked Games!
(The crowd explodes with cheers, which Captain Charisma acknowledges the fans, turning towards them with a smile.)
Captain Charisma: Yes, you all heard me right. This match between Cosmo Goldworthy and Diamond Dixon will be a number one contendership match for the EAW Hardcore Championship competed under Hardcore Warfare. You guys already know how Sunday Night Voltage handles things around here and this certainly has upped the stakes for both of these competitors that have been going at each other for a few weeks now!
(The crowd in attendance erupts into cheers after hearing this huge announcement made for Territorial Invasion. After having the time to process this, Diamond Dixon places her microphone closer to her to begin speaking once again.)
Diamond Dixon: Ya’ know, I am more than glad to have this opportunity. I’ve been waiting for this kind of chance to step up the success ladder, and I don’t mind doing it at the expense of Cosmo to get myself a championsh-
Cosmo Goldworthy: Can you shut the hell up, already? These people ain’t come here to hear you speak whatever nonsense you’ve got on your mind, because at the end of the day the only person that deserves that championship opportunity is Money Mo! I mean, let’s be serious here, it ain’t like you’re going to win this match anyway. You already stabbed me in the back. Do you really think I’m gonna let you have this, too? It just ain’t enough for you, huh, Diamond? You ain’t satisfied with the fact you ended up betraying me, so now you’re trying to take food off my plate! You’re trying to mess with my money flow while you attempt to embarrass me by taking what I deserve.
Cosmo Goldsworthy: I guess that’s just how it’s always been, though. You take and you take, and when you’ve had enough you try to just throw me away like I’m nothing. Don’t you worry though… You got a receipt coming for ya’ ass at Territorial Invasion. It’s only right that I get myself some gold around my waist after I’m finished with you! Hardcore Warfare is the perfect environment to settle this beef we’ve got, cause it’s deeper than just the wrestling industry and you know that. I can put a traitor in her damn place by any means necessary while proving WHY I am the next Hardcore Champion! Diamond, you messed up turning your back on me, but now I’mma make your mistake my biggest opportunity yet when I beat you in that ring at Territorial Invasion!
(As Cosmo Goldworthy is about to finish speaking, Diamond Dixon is quick to start speaking right after, feeling disrespected, and not in a good mood at all.)
Diamond Dixon: This isn’t how things are going to go down at all so pipe down first of all, okay?! Coming out here acting like a victim, pretending to be some sort of wounded animal that needs sympathy from these people, and just being a lying ass manchild who can’t accept that you weren’t pulling weight. Did we forget what happened last week, huh, Cosmo? You’re doing all this talking about the people but I know they were watching then, and they saw you make a mistake you’re gonna regret. Instead of just finding your own lane and trying to make a real name for yourself you decided to cost me my match. What do you think you’re accomplishing here?
(Cosmo doesn’t respond to this, and Diamond continues.)
Diamond Dixon: I didn’t forget about that camera you threw at my head, either. All this because you couldn’t handle the truth. Since then, all you’ve been doing is playing these stupid little games, because you felt insulted over the truth. Instead of just taking it on the chin you’ve made this huge mess for the both of us. That’s okay though, I won’t have to keep dealing with you once I beat you at Territorial Invasion and show you that you truly couldn’t pull your own weight around when we were teaming up together. It’s time this ends, so you can continue dragging your feet on the floor with no sign of being successful here while I go on to show everyone what I’ve been telling these folks all these years. Diamond Dixon is a star.
(Cosmo Goldworthy is clearly not happy as both competitors stare each other down and slowly approach one another still talking on the microphones.)
Cosmo Goldworthy: The only one here who’s a damn star between us is the man in front of you talking! You messed up turning all traitorous on me, but don’t worry I’m going to smack some sense into you come Territorial Invasion, because I’m better than you, and Money Mo’s getting that Hardcore title while you’re being left behind.
Diamond Dixon: The only thing you’re going to have to worry about is saving your checks, because when I am done with you I’m not gonna come running back ready to hold your hand again. You’re gonna have to go at it alone, and we both know you just can’t handle that.
Cosmo Goldworthy: Oh, you think you’re funny now? Don’t make me get up close and personal and smack some respect onto you because we ain’t going to be doing this little game where you try to disrespect me! That championship opportunity is mine and the bragging rights of winning this match up at Territorial Invasion are too so if I was you? I’d start looking at back up plans for this little “stardom” journey of yours!
Diamond Dixon: Cosmo, I’m better than this. I have bigger things coming, and that means I can’t keep dealing with someone who has done nothing but struggle whenever I’m not there with him. You are and have always been the weak link and the sooner you realize this the sooner you either fix it or do us both a favor and leave this industry as a whole. Either way, this is done.
(Both Diamond Dixon and Cosmo Goldworthy have made their way to the middle of the ring as they have a face to face stare down before Captain Charisma gets in between them and speaks up.)
Captain Charisma: Let’s save this energy and all your violent desires you want to do to each for Territorial Invasion don’t we? Can’t let the fans who paid for Territorial Invasion tickets down so let’s just keep being as professional as we possibly can and head out one by one alright? Alright.
Cosmo Goldworthy: Tch. Don’t worry bossman, Diamond is going to find out soon enough that this match between us won’t end well for her at all and by the end of the night at Territorial Invasion the whole world will see who the true weak link is.
(Cosmo Goldworthy drops the mic as he turns around and slowly heads out but from behind Diamond Dixon starts attacking Cosmo Goldworthy while Captain Charisma calls for help to separate the two competitors.)
Thadd Blazevich: IT LOOKS LIKE THESE TWO HAVE NO INTENTION OF STOPPING THEIR BEEF FROM BECOMING PERSONAL HERE TONIGHT BROS! Diamond is throwing hands onto Cosmo as a little payback from last week and even the words he said here tonight!
Persephone: I just hope their eventual match at Territorial Invasion is more aggressive than what we’re already seeing, maybe a lot of blood, and with a high chance of death? I mean these two have been going at each other for weeks and here we have Diamond getting some revenge as she’s just throwing some strong strikes at Cosmo who got caught by surprise.
Rich Russillo: Diamond Dixon not wasting any time as she picks up the downed Cosmo Goldworthy, AND PLANTS HIM WITH THE FACELIFT!! The Facelift connects, laying out Cosmo as Diamond slowly heads out of the ring…
Thadd Blazevich: It looks like these two elitists are going to go to war come Territorial Invasion in their Hardcore Warfare match for the opportunity at the EAW Hardcore Championship… For now however it seems that Diamond Dixon was able to get her payback here tonight bros, but will she continue this path and beat Cosmo when they eventually face off? Only time will tell…
(Diamond Dixon is seen slowly retreating back towards the ramp and the backstage area as backup is slowly trying to prevent any further attacks while inside the ring Cosmo Goldworthy is laid out while Captain Charisma and some referees check up on him as the scene fades to black.)
(The camera opens to the backstage area, where ARIA, Ashlynn Quinn, Candice Blair and Eris Morti are seen in a locker room, all sitting together and speaking with each other. ARIA and Candice are having a conversation ahead of Candice’s match in a few moments as Candice prepares to team up with Ashlynn and Raven Roberts in a trios match. Ashlynn meanwhile is speaking with Eris, who doesn’t really say much of anything in response.)
(Eventually the door of the locker room opens, catching the attention of the four inside of the room as Voltage’s Brand Warfare team Captain, Raven Roberts, enters the room.)
Raven Roberts: Alright. Thank you all for joining me here. By now three of us have already competed in triple threats against people we’ll be meeting in Brand Warfare. I think that was a good chance for us to prepare for what we’ll see in the actual Brand Warfare match, but this also means that the other teams will have a better idea of what we’re bringing to the match. Still, that’s no problem. We just need to make use of everything we learn up until Territorial Invasion, both about our opponents, and about each other.
(After saying this, Raven turns towards Eris.)
Raven Roberts: Eris, you got to face Dynasty’s Captain and one of Showdown’s Co-Captains. I have history with KASAI myself, but I don’t think I need to explain just how valuable an experience like that is ahead of Territorial Invasion.
(Eris shakes her head.)
Eris Morti: No, I get it. Mia Santoro, I don’t believe I’m the only one to have faced her so I don’t think I need to explain how conniving she is. I personally wouldn’t rule her out as a threat. She’ll do whatever it takes to win no matter how dirty, especially in a match with stakes like Brand Warfare, which is a mentality our team certainly lacks. The Matriarch on the other hand…
(A smile forms on Eris’ face as she stares at Raven.)
Eris Morti: I can see why the two of you couldn’t get away from each other. She’s fun.
(Raven doesn’t show a reaction to this, giving a dismissive nod as she doesn’t care to look back on her history with KASAI just yet, knowing how heated the rivalry between them was.)
Raven Roberts: ARIA?
ARIA: Daryl Kinkade and Halsey Neel. I had history with the two of them prior to last night, Halsey especially, and while I’d be lying to call myself a friend of theirs, I can acknowledge the fight they gave me. Daryl Kinkade held the National Elite Championship only months ago, and while I’m still not so certain he has genuinely moved on from his issues with Chris Elite, I doubt he’s willing to accept another loss so easily. He’ll be tough to put down, but I don’t believe we’re incapable of overcoming this.
ARIA: The same could be said for his former teammate Halsey, Showdown’s other Co-Captain. She seems more suited for her role than Mia, but I believe the bigger issue will be her tag team expertise. She and Pandora Paisley were Unified Tag Team Champions for a long time, so I don’t doubt she knows what she’s doing.
Raven Roberts: But, that’s where you, Ashlynn and Candice come in.
ARIA: Exactly.
Candice Blair: ARIA, Ashlynn, and I have spent a lot of time together. Halsey is obviously a skilled tag team wrestler, but she doesn’t have much history with the rest of her team, and I haven’t seen much signs of that changing yet. Team Dynasty is even worse off. Most of that team are people who’ve faced each other in big matches or *will* face each other soon, and because of that they still have some tension they’re holding back. ARIA and I have been fighting together for a majority of this year. Nobody else in the match can say that.
(Candice turns towards Ashlynn.)
Candice Blair: Ashlynn, you and Eris have some history working together too, don’t you? I actually remember the two of you facing us.
Ashlynn Quinn: Yep! How do you think Eris and I became besties in the first place?? Way back when we were both going for the Specialists title we had a ton of tag matches together! She helped push me before everything with ToXXXin happened and you and Ari backed me up, so we totes know how to work as a team already, right?
Eris Morti: Sure.
Ashlynn Quinn: Right! So I can work well with Candy, Ari and Eris already. All that’s left is for me to work with you Ray-Ray, and that’s not even a problem because that’s what tonight’s for!
Raven Roberts: That’s right, but I will make this clear now. I’m not just looking to compete in this match for the sake of building team chemistry. Don’t get me wrong, it’ll be helpful. It’ll further the advantage we have and by the time we make it to Territorial Invasion, we could be the most united group. However, all of us have been in this business long enough to understand that crumbling from within isn’t the only way a team can fall, and I don’t want to walk into Brand Warfare with a team that, while united, is still weak. We need a strong team, and for us to achieve that we need to be gunning for the win. Ashlynn, it wasn’t a brand versus brand match, but you were able to pull through last week.
Ashlynn Quinn: Of course! There was no way I was gonna disappoint right after getting an opportunity like this one. Especially not with everything that happened out there.
Raven Roberts: Well, that’s what I need out of you tonight. You too, Candice. I added you two and ARIA to this team because of your ambition. Because I understand what it’s like to miss out on one of your biggest opportunities in a long time, only for another one to meet you. You don’t want to miss out on what Brand Warfare can provide, but the same can be said for the ten other people we’ll be facing at Territorial Invasion. This match is the chance for us to show that we’re bringing our best, especially since our opponents are going to be in a similar spot to some of the people we’ll meet in Brand Warfare. I’m not accepting defeat, and if the two of you don’t share that mentality you don’t belong on this team. I’m not here to tell you what to do, or control your every move. I’m just telling you the reality of the situation, and if you want to make the most of it it’s up to you to decide how you approach that. Got it?
Ashlynn Quinn: Mhm.
Candice Blair: I do. Trust me, none of us are happy about what happened at Bloodsport. We gave ToXXXin our best and it wasn’t enough, but we have no reason to let that stop us. This is a major opportunity, and we already know by now that the only way we’re going to get what we want is by keeping our foot on the gas and bringing everything we have no matter what they may try to pull.
Ashlynn Quinn: See, Candy gets it! We’re not scared of the other teams. We’re gonna win tonight, then we’re gonna win the whole Brand Warfare match. It’s what we deserve, and we’re not gonna let any of the uggos on the other two teams take that from us.
Raven Roberts: Alright. Good. Keep that energy, this is what we need to see.
(After saying this, Raven turns her attention towards ARIA and Eris, who had already competed over the last two nights.)
Raven Roberts: ARIA, Eris, you two already faced the other two brands so you know what’s expected out of you. Don’t let up. Think about your matches on Showdown and Dynasty. What your opponents brought out of you. What it’ll take to eliminate them. I had Chris Elite and Rex McAllister last week, and while I nearly got the victory, KELIN interfered. That kind of thing is bound to happen in Brand Warfare, and that’s something we need to keep in mind, too. Truth be told, it’s not as simple as being prepared for every single thing that can happen in a match with fifteen participants. Still, that doesn’t mean we can’t be multiple steps ahead of everyone else.
ARIA: I agree. I understand the stakes, and I will do all I can to guarantee we’re prepared by Territorial Invasion, even more than we were this weekend. This won’t be my first time in the match. I know what it takes to survive there, and alongside the four of you I won’t be aiming for survival alone. I too will be searching for victory.
(Raven doesn’t say anything, instead getting out of her seat as she takes in ARIA’s words. She looks towards Eris, and Eris just nods, showing agreement towards Raven’s words. After this, Raven responds.)
Raven Roberts: Okay. That’s all, then. Don’t forget, I am putting my trust in all of you. You came through last week. Let’s stay on the same page, and let’s get the win. Ashlynn, Candice, let’s go.
(Candice nods, and she and Ashlynn waste no time, ready for the upcoming trios match as they join Raven Roberts on their way out the door. With this, the camera fades away from the backstage area.)
(Commercial for Clayface.)
(The camera has returned to ringside, where we see Bella Braxton standing front and center in the ring as she is ready to begin the introductions for the next match.)
Bella Braxton: The following contest is a special TRIOS MATCH SCHEDULED FOR ONE FALL!
Crowd: ONE FALL!
(‘Ghost Myself’ by DIAMANTE starts to play as the trio of Raven Roberts, Candice Blair, and Ashlynn Quinn enter the arena. They already spoke before the match, and rather than strict leadership, this team has been built on trust and ambition. The trio get a head start on team chemistry before Territorial Invasion as they look at each other and nod as they head to the ring, focused ahead of the upcoming match.)
Bella Braxton: Introducing first! At a total combined weight of 367 pounds! Here is the team of ASHLYNN QUINN! CANDICE BLAIR! AND RAVEN ROBERTS!
Rich Russillo: Here comes 3 members of the Voltage Brand Warfare team led by Captain Raven Roberts as they go into battle in a few weeks at Territorial Invasion.
Persephone: I prefer to call them the bitch brigade but it is what it is.
Thadd Blazevich: Last week, Raven was in a Steel Cage Brand Warfare Preview match where no winner was declared, but her team was there at ringside to show solidarity. This week, she is going into action with Ashlynn and Candice. Will this be a show of chemistry? Or a disaster, bro?
(The ladies enter the ring and take a corner as Raven’s music is replaced by “Run Into Flowers” by M83 as Bronson Daniels walks out to the stage. He begrudgingly waits as ‘The Clincher’ by Chevelle follows, and slowly so does Daniella Atlas. Daniella makes her way to the stage, but on her way there her music is interrupted by ‘Pride and Arrogance’ by Takeru Kanazaki. Drake Armstrong bursts out to the stage, swiftly walking past Bronson and Daniella as he takes the spotlight for himself, as the other two are forced to follow.)
Bella Braxton: Introducing their opponents! At a total combined weight of 595 pounds. Here is the team of DRAKE ARMSTRONG! DANIELLA ATLAS! AND BRONSON DANIELS!
Persephone: Otherwise known as the Pompous Windbag, the Delusional Bitch, and the One Man Depression Session.
Thadd Blazevich: It’s gonna be rough for these three to work together considering they got into a brawl last week. At least they have chosen to act civil, at least as much as they can, for the time being. That civility will go out the window at Territorial Invasion.
Rich Russillo: These three will be battling it out for a shot to become Number One Contender for the EAW Championship. Last week showed how badly these three want to win. But will they be able to work together for this match without things breaking down? We are about to find out.
(The three enter the ring and take a neutral corner of their own as Drake’s music fades off. The referee checks over both teams and makes sure nothing breaks down before they call for the bell.)
(DING! DING! DING!)
Thadd Blazevich: Here we go! Trios action underway as Drake Armstrong has volunteered himself to start for his team as Raven Roberts steps up to start for the opposition.
Rich Russillo: Two former World Champions starting off this match and Drake is wanting to co for a lockup, BUT RAVEN AVOIDS IT! Raven behind Drake and SHE STARTS TO THROW KICKS TO DRAKE’S LEGS!
Thadd Blazevich: Bro, Drake is almost double Raven’s weight so that wouldn’t have been smart for Raven to do. So she is trying to knot and cramp up Drake’s legs early in the match, BUT HE GRABS RAVEN AND APPLIES THE FRONT FACELOCK!
Persephone: All that money and still no brains. So sad. But if he chokes this birdbrain out, I wouldn’t complain much.
Thadd Blazevich: Drake has a tight hold on Raven’s neck as she tries to get free, BUT SHE STARTS THROWING RIGHTS AND LEFTS INTO HIS RIBS AND HE FINALLY LETS RAVEN GO!
Rich Russillo: Raven repositions herself and uses the brief hesitation from Drake to use the momentum AND TAKE DRAKE DOWN WITH A JUDO THROW!! DRAKE IS STUNNED!
Persephone: That’s exactly what he deserves. Especially with that stupid look on his face wondering what happened.
Rich Russillo: Now Raven is just putting the boots to Drake as he rolls himself over to the ropes and the referee forces a break.
Persephone: Drake is yelling at the referee to back Raven off. No words for this embarrassing spectacle.
Thadd Blazevich: Raven breaks away from the referee and goes right back to Drake AND DRAKE WITH A KNEE TO THE GUT! Raven doubled over after that shot and Drake takes Raven to a neutral corner–
Rich Russillo: DRAKE LAUNCHES RAVEN OUT OF THE CORNER WITH A BIEL THROW AND RAVEN GOES HALFWAY ACROSS THE RING AND LANDS HARD ON HER BACK!
Thadd Blazevich: Drake walks over and pulls Raven up to her feet and pushes her back into the corner and just starts putting the boots to her.
Persephone: Here comes the referee telling Richy Rich to let Birdbrain out of the corner before starting a count. Naturally.
Thadd Blazevich: Drake stops the boots as he sits Raven on the top turnbuckle as he tries to climb up there as well for a superplex attempt–
Rich Russillo: RAVEN WITH A SLAP TO THE FACE TO STUN DRAKE BEFORE KICKING HIM OFF THE ROPES, BUT HE LANDS ON HIS FEET!
Persephone: If this match gets any more exciting then I am going to need to bring a magazine.
Rich Russillo: Raven is now standing on the top turnbuckle as Drake turns around AND RAVEN QUICKLY JUMPS OFF THE TOP ROPE AND HITS A MISSILE DROPKICK! DIRECT HIT TO THE FACE AS DRAKE WAS TURNED INSIDE OUT!
Persephone: It would have been good if some teeth would have gone flying, but it’s whatever as Birdbrain goes for the cover.
ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEE!
TWWWW-
Thadd Blazevich: DRAKE POWERS OUT! Barely a one count for Raven and Raven is now just hammering down on Drake to keep him neutralized, but Drake is still too strong against Raven as he easily gets back to his feet.
Rich Russillo: He kicks Raven and then grabs her around the waist BEFORE TAKING HER UP AND OVER WITH A GUTWRENCH SUPLEX! Nice move by the Immaculate One as he pulls Raven over to his corner and reaches out for the tag.
(TAG!)
Thadd Blazevich: Bronson Daniels tags in. Surprisingly, everyone on the team has been civil in the beginning moments of the match. Raven is down on the mat as Bronson JUMPS ONTO THE TOP ROPE AND SPRINGBOARDS IN WITH A SPRINGBOARD 450! DUDE, WHAT A MOVE RIGHT THERE AS BRONSON GOES FOR THE COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOO!
Persephone: She kicks out. Big shock there.
Thadd Blazevich: Very innovative offense by Bronson Daniels as he pulls Raven to her feet and throws a few forearms into the face before whipping her over to the ropes. Raven with the rebound–
(TAG!)
Rich Russillo: Ashlynn got the tag but Bronson didn’t realize it AS RAVEN HITS THE LOU THESZ PRESS AND STARTS PUNCHING BRONSON IN THE HEAD!
Persephone: The referee is trying to get the birdbrain out of the ring because of the tag but she keeps punching Bronson in the head, which is understandable.
Rich Russillo: Raven rolls off of Bronson and heads back to her corner AS ASHLYNN HITS A BASEBALL SLIDE CLOTHESLINE ACROSS BRONSON’S THROAT WHEN HE SAT UP!
Persephone: Look at that. The bimbo did something smart. Good for her.
Thadd Blazevich: Ashlynn pulls Bronson back to his feet and throws a few forearms into Bronson’s face to stun him BEFORE CATCHING BRONSON IN THE MOUTH WITH A BACK ELBOW!
Rich Russillo: Ashlynn tries to go for another forearm BUT REGAINS HIS SENSES AND COUNTERS WITH A BELL CLAP! THAT’S GONNA CAUSE SOME RINGING IN HER EARS!
Thadd Blazevich: Ashlynn is stunned now as Bronson returns the favor with the forearms to the face before whipping her to the corner. Bronson comes running in AND HITS THE ROUNDHOUSE KICK IN THE CORNER!
Persephone: Well that might have knocked some of the botox out of her face.
Thadd Blazevich: Ashlynn comes stumbling out of the corner as Bronson grabs her AND HOISTS HER INTO THE AIR FOR A SAITO SUPLEX! DUDE, ASHLYNN WAS ALMOST DROPPED ON HER HEAD AS BRONSON FLOATS INTO THE COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOO!
Rich Russillo: ASHLYNN KICKS OUT AT TWO! Bronson stays on the offensive as he brings Ashlynn back to her feet and whips her to the ropes.
Persephone: She is such an airhead, I am surprised she doesn’t just float over the ropes and away.
Rich Russillo: Nevermind. Ashlynn rebounds off the ropes as Bronson grabs her BUT ASHLYNN GETS HER LEGS AROUND BRONSON’S HEAD FOR A HEADSCISSOR COUNTER–
Persephone: But the counter gets countered as Bronson drops the Bimbo with a backbreaker. Look at Bronson not choking. Bound to happen at some point.
Thadd Blazevich: Bronson pulls Ashlynn back up to her feet AND DELIVERS A CHOP TO THE CHEST! GOOD GAWD THAT CHOP HAD SOME SNAP BEHIND IT!
Rich Russillo: So Bronson follows up with another chop to the chest and sends her back into the corner before he applies the facelock and sits her on the top rope.
Thadd Blazevich: Bronson is on the top rope as well as he hooks Ashlynn AND HE IS TRYING TO HIT THE SUPERPLEX!
Persephone: Yeah because it worked out so well the last time two idiots. Maybe they will both fall off and break their necks. Wouldn’t hurt my feelings.
Thadd Blazevich: The referee is trying to get both competitors off the top turnbuckle AS BRONSON GOES FOR THE SUPERPLEX–
Rich Russillo: ASHLYNN BLOCKED IT BY HOOKING HER LEGS THROUGH THE ROPES! Bronson tries one more time to go for the superplex, BUT ASHLYNN WAS ABLE TO LIFT BRONSON ENOUGH TO GET HIS FEET OFF THE ROPES AND SENDS HIM STRAIGHT DOWN TO THE CANVAS!
Persephone: BELLY FLOP BY BRONSON!! I told you this would happen. Plus I think he hit his face on the bottom turnbuckle when he landed. Maybe he broke his jaw.
Rich Russillo: Bronson his holding his face in pain as he rolls away from the corner, but that gives Ashlynn plenty of time to recover. She is now standing on the top turnbuckle as she adjusts her position to turn around and face the crowd.
Persephone: I hope this ends badly so the match ends quicker.
Thadd Blazevich: Ashlynn has her balance AS SHE FLIPS OFF THE TOP ROPE LOOKING FOR THE MOONSAULT–
Rich Russillo: SHE FAKES US OUT! ASHLYNN STOPS JUST SHORT OF BRONSON LANDING ON HER FEET BEFORE SHE FLIPS BACK AGAIN AND HITS A STANDING MOONSAULT!
Thadd Blazevich: Dude, she got all of that as she quickly hooks both legs for the cover!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOO!
Persephone: He kicked out. Aren’t we just so lucky.
Thadd Blazevich: Ashlynn with a nearfall on Bronson as she pulls Bronson to his feet and whips him to her corner–
Rich Russillo: BRONSON REVERSES IT AND SENDS ASHLYNN INTO HER OWN CORNER!
Persephone: Why aren’t those idiots she calls partners tagging in. Use what’s left of your brains, bitches!!
Rich Russillo: Bronson comes running into the corner AND ASHLYNN GETS OUT OF THE WAY! Bronson goes face first into the corner and ASHLYNN FOLLOWS UP WITH A CLOTHESLINE ACROSS THE THROAT!
Persephone: Good for her. Now Bronson is sitting in the corner AND WHAT IN THE HELL IS THIS BITCH DOING?
Thadd Blazevich: It looks like Ashlynn has backed up from the corner BEFORE RUNNING BACK FULL SPEED–
Rich Russillo: BRONCO BUSTER ON BRONSON! THE REFEREE IS RIGHT THERE TO TELL ASHLYNN THAT IS ILLEGAL AND TO GET OUT OF THE CORNER!
Persephone: If Bronson’s girlfriend sees this, will she be pissed or jealous?
(TAG!)
Thadd Blazevich: That is not the point as Candice Blair tags in for the first time this match as both ladies grab Bronson by the head AND TAKE HIM UP AND OVER WITH THE DOUBLE SUPLEX!
Rich Russillo: Great teamwork being shown so far by the Brand Warfare team as Candice hits a quick leg drop across the throat on the Hall of Famer as she pulls him to his feet and throws a few forearms into Bronson’s face.
Thadd Blazevich: Interesting fact, bros. Five former Champions are competing in this match. The only person who has yet to taste gold in EAW is the lady in the ring, Candice Blair.
Persephone: There is a reason for that, you know.
Thadd Blazevich: Don’t you start. Candice has switched up the forearms AND SHE DELIVERS A CHOP TO BRONSON’S CHEST! GOOD GRIEF! THAT SOUNDED LIKE A WHIP CRACKING!
Rich Russillo: She doesn’t stop as she follows up with repeated chops again and again. Machine gun chops from Candice Blair.
Persephone: Skank probably learned to chop from her bitch sisters, but if she keeps doing it, Bronson will finally have a chest big enough to pin a medal on.
Rich Russillo: That really doesn’t make any sense as Candice FIRES OFF A ROUNDHOUSE KICK, BUT BRONSON DUCKS THE KICK! Candice loses her balance as Bronson jumps up and FLIPS CANDICE BACK FOR THE POISONRANA!
Persephone: Not very effective considering her head is the safest part of her body because there is nothing up there.
Thadd Blazevich: CANDICE WAS SPIKED RIGHT ON HER HEAD OFF THE POISONRANA! Bronson is in control as he whips Candice into his team’s corner and doesn’t get flashy this time around–
(TAG!)
Rich Russillo: Here comes Daniella Atlas for the first time in this match. If you ask me, Daniella is perhaps the most powerful lady in EAW. She might be more powerful than some of the men.
Thadd Blazevich: Bro, that might be a true statement as Daniella hoists Candice with ease to sit her on the top turnbuckle.
Persephone: What is everybody’s fascination with the top turnbuckle? Just punch each other’s lights out and beat the hell out of each other. Not that hard.
Thadd Blazevich: Candice is still dazed off the poisonrana from earlier as Daniella gets her hands in position AND DANIELLA JUST LIFTS CANDICE WITH EASE AND WALKS TOWARDS THE CENTER OF THE RING WITH A MILITARY PRESS!
Rich Russillo: THAT IS SOME SCARY STRENGTH BY DANIELLA AS CANDICE HAS TO BE EIGHT OR NINE FEET IN THE AIR!
Persephone: It isn’t that impressive. She’s not that heavy even with all the silicone and plastic in her body.
Rich Russillo: Daniella is not showing any sign of fatigue with Candice in the air AND LOOK AT THIS! She drops Candice just enough to reposition her AND LIFTS HER BACK UP IN THE AIR IN THE SUPLEX POSITION! HOLY CRAP!
Persephone: Ehhh. It’s something different, so it’s not completely stupid.
Thadd Blazevich: Daniella lets the blood rush to Candice’s head BEFORE SHE BRINGS HER DOWN INTO THE FALCON ARROW! CANDICE LANDS HARD AS DANIELLA FLOATS OVER FOR THE COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOO!
THHHHHHHRRRRRR–
Rich Russillo: CANDICE KICKS OUT AT TWO! Near fall for Daniella as she gets back to her feet and starts stomping the crap out of Candice.
Thadd Blazevich: Candice looking worse for wear right now as Raven and Ashlynn are looking for a tag to get Candice out of there as Daniella brings her back to her feet AND DELIVERS A KNIFE EDGE CHOP TO CANDICE AS SHE FALLS TO HER KNEES!
Persephone: What is it with chops today? Even though it would be funny to watch this Ava Bitch’s implants implode.
Thadd Blazevich: Candice is trying to get back on her feet BUT SHE IS IMMEDIATELY MET WITH A SPINNING BACK ELBOW TO THE SIDE OF THE HEAD! THAT LOOKED LIKE A KNOCKOUT SHOT RIGHT THERE!
Rich Russillo: Daniella pulls Candice back to her feet AND LIFTS HER INTO A BEARHUG AND JUST SHAKES HER AROUND LIKE A SACK OF POTATOES!!
Persephone: This might be the best match of the night! Don’t you stop!
Rich Russillo: Candice is in a huge mess of trouble right now as Daniella TOSSES HER OUT AND GRABS ONTO HER HEAD AND DROPS DOWN WITH THE FACEBUSTER! CANDICE KISSES THE MAT HARD!
Persephone: Will save money on her plastic surgeon. This might improve her looks.
Thadd Blazevich: Bro, Daniella elects to not go for the cover and instead drags Candice over to her corner and reaches for the tag.
(TAG!)
Rich Russillo: Drake Armstrong tags back into the match and with over 100 pounds on Candice, this might be easy pickings for the Immaculate One as Daniella tosses Candice over to Drake.
Thadd Blazevich: Drake lifts Candice up and hoists her onto his shoulder as looks to run her in for a powerslam–
Persephone: SHE SLIDES OFF HIS SHOULDER! HOW IN THE HELL DID THAT IDIOT MESS THAT UP?
Thadd Blazevich: CANDICE WITH A HEADBUTT TO THE BACK OF DRAKE’S HEAD TAKING HIM TO A KNEE AS CANDICE SCRAMBLES OVER TO HER CORNER TO TRY AND MAKE A TAG–
Rich Russillo: DRAKE GRABS CANDICE BY THE ANKLE TO BLOCK THE TAG ATTEMPT! Now Candice is just hopping around on one foot BEFORE SHE COUNTERS WITH AN ENZUIGIRI KICK TO THE SIDE OF THE HEAD!
Persephone: That idiot looks like he had a few brain cells knocked out of his… not that he had that many to spare in the first place.
Rich Russillo: Candice is trying to get herself over to the corner as Ashlynn and Raven are reaching out for the tag–
(TAG!)
Persephone: Her lonely brain cell decided to work and she tags in the Birdbrain! Good for her.
Thadd Blazevich: RAVEN IS BACK IN THE MATCH AND SHE IS LOOKING LIKE A HOUSE OF FIRE AS SHE CLIMBS UP TO THE TOP ROPE AND HITS DRAKE WITH A MISSILE DROPKICK TO THE FACE!
Rich Russillo: Drake is back up, but RAVEN COMES BACK AND GRABS DRAKE AND HITS A BEAUTIFUL CODEBREAKER! DOUBLE KNEES TO THE FACE THAT SENDS DRAKE OVER TO THE ROPES!
Thadd Blazevich: Raven comes running in towards Drake, BUT DRAKE LIFTS RAVEN UP AND OVER THE TOP ROPE–
Persephone: Bitch hung on. Big surprise.
Thadd Blazevich: Raven is able to land on the apron as Drake turns around to grab Raven, BUT RAVEN CATCHES DRAKE WITH A SHOULDER TACKLE DOUBLING DRAKE OVER!
Rich Russillo: Raven gets herself onto the second rope AS SHE LAUNCHES HERSELF OVER THE TOP ROPE TO TRY FOR A CANADIAN DESTROYER–
Persephone: BAHAHAHA! BITCH GOT CAUGHT AS RICH BOY GRABS HER BY THE LEGS!
Rich Russillo: This could be really bad as Drake stops all of Raven’s momentum right there as he drags Raven back towards the center of the ring AND COUNTERS WITH AN ALABAMA SLAM!
Persephone: That was great! Seeing the back of that bitch’s head crack the mat that hard. It might have knocked her unconscious.
Thadd Blazevich: Raven was rocked off of the Alabama Slam as he pulls Raven back to her feet and takes her up and over with a snapmare takeover.
Rich Russillo: Raven is in a seated position and is trying to recover as she gets onto her knees, BUT DRAKE IS RIGHT THERE AND HE APPLIES THE GUILLOTINE CHOKE!
Thadd Blazevich: THE SUBMISSION HOLD IS APPLIED RIGHT IN THE CENTER OF THE RING AND THE REFEREE IS RIGHT THERE TO SEE IF RAVEN WANTS TO GIVE IT UP!
Persephone: The only way this match ends with that move is if the bitch passes out because nobody taps out around here.
Thadd Blazevich: Bro, with the submission being in the center of the ring, Raven has very little shot of reaching the ropes as she is trying to fight out.
Rich Russillo: But that fight might be counterproductive due to the fact that it is causing Raven to lose oxygen quicker.
Persephone: Can’t lose what you don’t have.
Rich Russillo: But Drake has that Guillotine on very tight so it might be a matter of time before Raven passes out.
Persephone: We would only be so lucky if it happens.
Thadd Blazevich: BRO, IT LOOKS LIKE RAVEN IS ABOUT TO PASS OUT–
Rich Russillo: WAIT A SECOND! RAVEN WAS ABLE TO GET ON HER FEET AND FLIP FORWARD TO COUNTER INTO A MODIFIED JACKKNIFE! SHOULDERS ARE DOWN!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOO!
THHHHHHHRRRRRRRREEEEEE!
Thadd Blazevich: DRAKE KICKS OUT AT TWO! THAT FORCES HIM TO RELEASE THE CHOKE!
Rich Russillo: But Raven is spent at the moment as Drake is back to his feet and grabs Raven to bring her back to her feet. He lifts her up in the air AND DROPS HER WITH THE “NATURAL TALENT”!
Thadd Blazevich: Beautiful Suplex–
(TAG!)
Persephone: Look! Bronson just tagged himself in.
Thadd Blazevich: Bronson is legal as he hits the ropes AND THEN COMES RUNNING BACK TO RAVEN AND HITS THE FLYING BRONSONS! BEAUTIFUL STANDING SHOOTING STAR PRESS AS HE GOES FOR THE COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOO!
THHHHHHHRRRRRRRREEEEEE!
Rich Russillo: RAVEN KICKS OUT AT TWO! Very close nearfall for Bronson Daniels who about won the match for his team.
Persephone: Close doesn’t count in this business…sadly.
Rich Russillo: Bronson is back to his feet as he brings Raven back to her feet and LIFTS HER UP FOR A BACK SUPLEX, BUT RAVEN IS ABLE TO ROLL BACK AND LAND ON HER FEET!
Persephone: How in the hell did she do that?
Thadd Blazevich: We don’t question it as Bronson turns around RIGHT INTO A FACELIFT FROM RAVEN! WHAT A KICK!
Rich Russillo: Raven falls back to her knees as Bronson is recovering from the kick as Ashlynn and Candice look ready to make the tag to get back into this match.
Thadd Blazevich: Bronson is starting to get back to his feet and RAVEN IS ONLY A FEW FEET AWAY FROM GETTING A TAG!
Rich Russillo: BRONSON GRABS RAVEN BY THE ANKLE BUT RAVEN IS ABLE TO ROLL FORWARD AND SENDS BRONSON INTO THE CORNER–
(TAG!)
Thadd Blazevich: RAVEN MAKES THE TAG TO ASHLYNN QUINN!
Persephone: Aren’t we just so happy to see that?
Thadd Blazevich: Ashlynn springs over the ropes and catches Bronson by the neck AND TAKES HIM OVER WITH A HEADSCISSOR TAKEOVER! BRONSON SENT FOR THE RIDE AS HE GETS BACK TO HIS FEET!
Rich Russillo: BUT ASHLYNN COMES BACK WITH A PUMP KICK TO THE SIDE OF THE HEAD TAKING BRONSON DOWN! Now Ashlynn tries for the FYP–
Persephone: He countered. Big surprise there.
Rich Russillo: Bronson got the knees up and Ashlynn landed right on them.
Persephone: What an idiot. Look before you leap.
Thadd Blazevich: Bronson is back on his feet as he brings Ashlynn in with the gutwrench before LIFTING HER UP AND DROPPING HER WITH THE SITOUT POWERBOMB AS SHE’S STACKED UP FOR THE COVER!!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOO!
THHHHHHHRRRRRRRREEEEEE!
Rich Russillo: ASHLYNN KICKED OUT! ANOTHER CLOSE NEAR FALL FOR BRONSON AS HE BRINGS ASHLYNN BACK TO HER FEET!
Thadd Blazevich: We see Daniella wanting to tag in and Bronson brings Ashlynn over and he is happy to oblige—
(TAG!)
Rich Russillo: Daniella is back in the match AND ASHLYNN IS IMMEDIATELY MET WITH A BIG BOOT TO THE FACE!
Thadd Blazevich: Ashlynn rocked as she was taken down to the mat as Daniella lifts her back to her feet. Daniella looks to whip Ashlynn to the ropes, BUT INSTEAD SHE BRINGS HER BACK IN AND HITS HER WITH THE “GHOST CALL”!
Persephone: Palm strike hits Ashlynn in the throat, but it doesn’t knock the bimbo off her feet.
Thadd Blazevich: It sends Ashlynn stumbling backwards into her own corner–
(TAG!)
Rich Russillo: CANDICE BLAIR HAS TAGGED HERSELF BACK INTO THE MATCH! Candice climbs up to the top rope as Daniella comes running in–
Persephone: Bitch gets a right hand for her troubles. Don’t run in like that stupid.
Rich Russillo: Daniella staggered as Candice finds her balance AS SHE COMES OFF THE TOP ROPE FOR THE METEORA!
Persephone: She actually hits it! This match is full of miracles.
Thadd Blazevich: Direct hit by Candice, but Daniella is able to roll through and prevent a cover from being attempted. Now Candice grabs Daniella in AND CALLS FOR THE CASTLES CRUMBLING–
Rich Russillo: DANIELLA USES HER POWER ADVANTAGE AND LIFTS HER STRAIGHT UP AND STRAIGHT BACK WITH A MODIFIED NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX! SHOULDERS ARE DOWN!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOO!
THHHHHHHRRRRRRRREEEEEE!
Thadd Blazevich: CANDICE KICKS OUT AT TWO! Daniella was close to stealing the match there with that innovative counter as both women start to get back to their feet
Rich Russillo: Daniella is the first to get back to her feet, BUT CANDICE SNEAKS IN A SUPERKICK THAT REALLY ROCKS DANIELLA BUT SHE IS STILL STANDING! WHAT A POWERHOUSE DANIELLA IS!
Thadd Blazevich: Candice comes up behind Daniella and grabs her around the waist AND MANAGES TO LIFT HER OFF HER FEET AND PLANT HER WITH A GERMAN SUPLEX! HOLY WOW, BRO!
Persephone: Who knew that silicone could lead to superpowers.
Thadd Blazevich: DANIELLA WAS DROPPED ON THE BACK OF HER HEAD! Daniella is trying to get back to her feet as Candice grabs her by the head AND TRIES FOR THE STARLIGHT DDT–
Rich Russillo: DANIELLA BLOCKS IT! DANIELLA HAS CANDICE UP IN THE AIR… WAIT A SECOND! LOOK AT THE CORNER!
Thadd Blazevich: WHAT THE HELL, BRO? DRAKE ARMSTRONG JUST SHOVED BRONSON DANIELS RIGHT OFF THE APRON! BRONSON LANDS ON THE FLOOR! WHAT IS WITH DRAKE!?
Rich Russillo: I don’t know, but that is his own teammate and the crowd is letting Drake hear about it, but he could care less.
Thadd Blazevich: Meanwhile, Daniella was able to toss Candice off of her from the DDT position BUT CANDICE WAS ABLE TO LAND ON HER FEET!
Persephone: Usually she lands somewhere else considering her reputation.
Thadd Blazevich: Candice comes running in as she ducks the clothesline from Daniella and hits the ropes from the other side AND COMES BACK AND HITS THE SPINNING WHEEL!
Rich Russillo: The kick hits Daniella but it sends Daniella back into the ropes. She rebounds and is about to avoid the Candice clothesline attempt before rebounding off the ropes on the other side. Candice turns around–
Thadd Blazevich: INTO THE INAMORATA! WHAT A LARIAT FROM DANIELLA! CANDICE IS DOWN AS SHE REACHES OUT FOR THE TAG–
Rich Russillo: DRAKE IS SHAKING HIS HEAD NO! HE IS REFUSING TO TAKE THE TAG! WHAT A BASTARD!
Thadd Blazevich: Dude, Bronson is down on the floor still so that means nobody is there to accept the tag and Daniella is pissed off.
Persephone: There’s the implosion we have been waiting for–
Thadd Blazevich: LOOK! BRONSON JUST PULLED DRAKE OFF THE APRON TO RETURN THE FAVOR AND NOW THE GENTLEMEN ARE FIGHTING AT RINGSIDE!
Persephone: We use that term loosely with these two, but these dumb bastards fighting is fine with me but causing Daniella to turn her attention to them–
Rich Russillo: AND THAT GIVES CANDICE ENOUGH TIME TO RECOVER AND LEAP ONTO DANIELLA AND TAKE HER OVER WITH THE CRUCIFIX! HER SHOULDERS ARE DOWN!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!
THHHHHHRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEE!
(DING! DING! DING!)
(‘So Far So Fake’ by Pierce the Veil starts to play as Candice lets Daniella go. Daniella is sitting in the ring stunned as Candice scrambles out of the ring as Bella Braxton announces the final decision of the match.)
Bella Braxton: Here are your winners… the team of RAVEN ROBERTS! ASHLYNN QUINN! AND CANDICE BLAIR!!
Rich Russillo: Well I certainly didn’t have this on my bingo card. Daniella and her team had the match won, but dissension between Drake and Bronson led to Candice Blair getting a huge pinfall victory for her team.
Thadd Blazevich: I don’t know about any of you, bro, but I think some people might call that an upset victory for Candice Blair getting the win over a former Tag Team Champion.
Persephone: I am upset that it took so damn long to end the match. Good grief.
Rich Russillo: Daniella took her eye off the ball for a moment too long and it cost her and her team the match. Daniella is stunned. She can’t believe what just happened. Regardless, congratulations to the ladies of Brand Warfare on the victory in Trios action.
(Candice helps Ashlynn and Raven to their feet as the referee raises their arms in victory. Meanwhile, Daniella is back on her feet and she is PISSED OFF as she watches Drake and Bronson continuing to fight.)
Thadd Blazevich: Dude, these two are still fighting on the outside as Daniella is in the ring wondering how these two are so stupid.
Persephone: Now she is getting onto the apron. What does this bitch have planned?
Rich Russillo: DANIELLA JUST LAUNCHES HERSELF OFF THE APRON AND HITS BOTH DRAKE AND BRONSON WITH A DIVING SENTON! THEY HIT THE FLOOR HARD!
Thadd Blazevich: That’s not all! She is throwing forearm and elbow strikes into Drake Armstrong for being selfish and not accepting her tag!
Persephone: Now she is doing the same thing to Bronson for pulling Drake off the apron and contributing to everything being ruined. Great. Another depression session.
Rich Russillo: Daniella gets to her feet and pulls Bronson up BEFORE TOSSING HIM RIGHT INTO THE BARRICADE! SPINE FIRST! Now she once again pulls Bronson to his feet AND HITS THE BLACK DEATH ELBOW!
Thadd Blazevich: Bronson is out and now Daniella turns her attention to Drake Armstrong and pulls him to his feet AND TOSSES HIM RIGHT INTO THE STEEL STEPS!
Persephone: That was a decent thud. Do it again!
Rich Russillo: Now Daniella pulls Drake up and TAKES HIM UP AND DOWN WITH SOUTH OF HEAVEN!
(Both Drake and Bronson are down and not moving as Daniella stands tall over the situation.)
Thadd Blazevich: Bro, Daniella just destroyed both of her opponents just now. Could this be the sight we see at Territorial Invasion.
Rich Russillo: If that’s the case, then Daniella might leave as the Number One Contender to the EAW Championship. What a war this is going to be in a couple of weeks with the World Title match up for grabs.
(The final shot shows Daniella still standing tall over a still down Drake and Bronson as the camera shot fades elsewhere.)
(Promotional ad for Territorial Invasion, where the New Breed Scramble will take place.)
(The camera cuts to the ring, where Captain Charisma stands with a slight grin on his face, an EAW-branded microphone in hand as “Self Help Tape” by Moses Sumney plays in the background. The music gradually fades out, and Captain Charisma begins to speak.)
Captain Charisma: Territorial Invasion is right around the corner, and we’ve spent the last few weeks putting together one hell of a card. But there’s one match in particular that I wanted to talk about tonight, and that’s the New Breed Scramble. Seven competitors from across EAW are going to have the opportunity to step onto that stage, compete in one of the most unpredictable matches of the night, and potentially walk away with a future shot at the New Breed Championship.
(Captain Charisma briefly looks toward the entrance ramp.)
Captain Charisma: We already know Voltage is sending some very talented competitors into that match, and after everything I’ve heard these last few weeks, I figured there was no better time to let everyone involved come out here and tell us exactly why they believe they’ll be the one earning that opportunity. So with that being said, I’d like to invite all seven participants in the New Breed Scramble to come down to this ring!
(‘Queen Leech’ by Grim Salvo & Witchouse 40k hits as Rei Oboro steps onto the stage with a wide smile, spreading her arms before taking an exaggerated bow for the crowd. Rei slowly rises with a pleased look on her face before beginning to make her way down the ramp.)
Rich Russillo: Rei Oboro is certainly one of the more unpredictable names in this Scramble. She seems to enjoy everything about what she does inside that ring, but underneath all that showmanship is someone who can be absolutely ruthless once that bell rings.
(Rei Oboro continues down the ramp as her music begins to fade, soon being replaced by ‘Cassie’ by Flyleaf as Winona Hendrickson steps onto the stage to a positive reaction from the crowd. Winona takes a moment to look out at the fans before turning her attention toward the ring, beginning to make her way down the ramp with a focused look on her face.)
Thadd Blazevich: And here comes the other Dynasty Elitist in this thing! Winona and Rei couldn’t be more different, bro, but Winona’s coming into this with something to prove, and a win at Territorial Invasion would be a pretty damn good way to do it!
(Winona Hendrickson continues down the ramp as her music begins to fade, soon being replaced by ‘SAME SH!T’ by Isaiah Rashad as Reylin Aloali’i steps onto the stage to a mixed reaction from the crowd. Reylin looks out at the arena for a moment before rolling his shoulders and beginning to make his way down the ramp.)
Rich Russillo: Reylin Aloali’i has already made his intentions for this match perfectly clear. He doesn’t care who else is in that ring or what he has to do to get past them, because as far as he’s concerned, this Scramble is simply his first step toward championship gold.
(Reylin Aloali’i continues down the ramp as his music begins to fade, soon being replaced by ‘Vordt of the Boreal Valley’ by Motoi Sakuraba as Igon Mordren emerges onto the stage to a chorus of boos. Igon stands there with a cold expression, clearly still unhappy about being part of this match as he stares toward the ring before beginning to make his way down the ramp.)
Persephone: And here comes the guy who’s spent the last two weeks complaining about being in this match. Igon looks like he’d rather be literally anywhere else, and frankly, I understand the feeling.
(Igon Mordren continues down the ramp as his music begins to fade, soon being replaced by ‘REVIVER’ by MY FIRST STORY as Sayuri Himura steps onto the stage to a positive reaction from the crowd. Sayuri remains composed as she looks toward the ring, taking a moment to survey the competitors ahead of her before beginning to make her way down the ramp.)
Rich Russillo: Sayuri only found out last week that she’d be part of this Scramble, but she welcomed the opportunity immediately. She came to EAW to test herself against the best competition she could find, and Territorial Invasion gives her another chance to do exactly that.
(Sayuri Himura continues down the ramp as her music begins to fade, soon being replaced by ‘AY DIEGUITO’ by CALLE 24 as the arena erupts into loud boos. Diego Montana steps onto the stage chewing gum with a smug look on his face, appearing completely unbothered by the hostile reaction as he casually saunters his way down the ramp.)
Thadd Blazevich: And listen to this place, bro! Diego might be on Showdown now, but we know this dude pretty well after last season on Voltage. He rubbed a whole lot of people the wrong way back then, and clearly a change of scenery hasn’t made him any more popular.
(Diego Montana continues down the ramp as his music begins to fade, soon being replaced by ‘Live Evil’ by Flatlinerz as Tafae Toa emerges onto the stage alongside Malik Al-Farouq. Tafae stands beside his manager with an intimidating stare fixed on the ring, while Malik looks around at the crowd before leading Tafae down the ramp.)
Rich Russillo: And Tafae Toa may be the biggest wildcard in this entire Scramble. He’s dangerous, he’s unpredictable, and with Malik Al-Farouq there to guide him, everyone else in this match needs to be very careful around him.
(Tafae Toa and Malik Al-Farouq make their way down the ramp before entering the ring, joining the rest of the Scramble competitors as they gather on either side of Captain Charisma. Each competitor has a microphone in hand as Captain Charisma looks around at the group surrounding him.)
Captain Charisma: Well, now that everyone’s here, I think we can—
Diego Montana: Nah, nah, nah, hold up, pa. We ain’t gotta do all that.
(Captain Charisma stops and slowly turns toward Diego, who casually chews his gum for a moment before stepping forward with a microphone in hand.)
Diego Montana: You brought everybody out here so we can explain why we think we’re winning this thing, right? Cool, lemme save everybody some time. I don’t think I’m winning, I KNOW I’m winning. That’s the difference between Big D and everybody else standing in this ring right now, because y’all are looking at Territorial Invasion like it’s some big opportunity to finally prove yourselves, while the Hardest Ese Ever already knows exactly what he brings to the table.
(The crowd begins to boo louder, but Diego barely acknowledges them as he continues.)
Diego Montana: Matter of fact, I’ve been undefeated all season, so what are we even debating here? Rei, Winona, Reylin, Sayuri, y’all can fight over second place if that makes you feel better. Igon can keep crying about how he’s too good to be here, and Tafae—
(Diego glances toward Tafae Toa, who remains silent beside Malik.)
Diego Montana: Man, we already did this shit before, big dog. You’re scary, you’re huge, you like beating people up, blah, blah, blah. I get it. But if you think I’m supposed to stand here shaking in my boots because I gotta deal with you again, then somebody forgot to tell Sucio Montana.
(The crowd boos again as Diego smirks, continuing to chew his gum while staring directly at Tafae. Tafae begins to step forward, but Malik Al-Farouq quickly moves between the two and raises his microphone.)
Malik Al-Farouq: See, Diego, this is exactly the kind of confidence I admire. Completely misplaced, but I admire it. Because you of all people should know better than to stand there and act like Tafae Toa is just another name in this match.
(Diego rolls his eyes while Malik gestures toward Tafae.)
Malik Al-Farouq: You can call yourself the Hardest Ese Ever, the Highkey New Breeder, whatever else you came up with this week, but none of those names are going to help you at Territorial Invasion. A Scramble like this is made for a man like Tafae. Seven people, bodies everywhere, no shortage of fools getting in his way? Tafae is going to enjoy himself.
Diego Montana: Man, you done glazing him yet, or—
Malik Al-Farouq: And if you’re stupid enough to make yourself his problem again, Diego, then I promise you, winning this match will be the last thing you need to worry about.
(Diego’s smirk fades slightly as he looks past Malik toward Tafae, taking a couple of subtle steps back while continuing to chew his gum. He tries to play it off with a shrug, but clearly takes Malik’s warning more seriously than he wants to let on.)
Diego Montana: Well actual-
Reylin Aloali’i: Shut your bitch ass up already, God damn!
(The crowd cheers as they hear someone finally put Diego Montana in his place as Diego looks at Reylin with utmost offense as he clearly feels disrespected currently.)
Reylin Aloali’i: You two can keep bickering and going back and forth like an old married couple while that freak over there stays quiet letting his handler handle business, but this ain’t the time for that. We have bigger things to think about right now than whatever you have going on at Showdown. The New Breed Championship is up for grabs for whoever wins this match, and that’s going to be me.
(Both Diego Montana and Malik Al-Farouq look at Reylin Aloali’i, ready to snap back at him verbally before their opportunity is taken away.)
Sayuri Himura: It seems with all this talking all three of you are more than ready to enter into this war, ready to take this opportunity and make something of yourself, but do not let your anger distract from the fact that while you all talk a big game… Being able to actually pull off the victory may be harder than you think with all of these formidable opponents.
Sayuri Himura: It is clear that there’s a lack of respect in this match…
(Sayuri looks around at the intense tension around the ring and looks at Igon Mordren as he remains stoic and staring at the ring with his piercing eyes as Sayuri is interrupted before she can finish her statement.)
Rei Oboro: And why wouldn’t there be? This New Breed Scramble match is just another opportunity to expand my wrestling palette and see what other competitors have to offer inside that ring. I am hoping for you to impress, but if you disappoint that is fine, because that just means I’ll be taking my ticket towards a match against the New Breed Champion.
Rei Oboro: You all can continue to bicker on but once that bell rings? You either prove your worth or you become discarded as other talent that just wasn’t worth the time of day. There is no room to wait for anyone in a match like this. Either keep up, or fall behind.
Winona Hendrickson: We’re aware of what this opportunity presents, Rei. It’s clear that with competitors from all three brands in this one match with a massive opportunity on the line only the best will survive and win the chance to face off against the EAW New Breed Champion and possibly become a champion themselves. I understand where you all are coming from, but I don’t intend to grant any of you an easy victory. I’ll be coming for the victory at Territorial Invasion, so I can come a step closer to helping bring balance to Dynasty and the rest of this company.
Winona Hendrickson: It’s pretty obvious that none of us will see eye to eye on any-
(Diego Montana can be heard laughing on the mic as he interrupts Winona and as he’s about to speak yet again, Igon Mordren finally decides to speak up as he looks at everyone in the ring while staring daggers onto Diego before he raises his voice.)
Igon Mordren: I suggest you keep your mouth quiet impotent child, the adults are talking, and right now the only wrestler inside this ring with any self respect is about to speak so listen up!
(All of the competitors inside the ring look at Igon, already feeling disrespected, but clearly Igon himself doesn’t care while continuing on.)
Igon Mordren: It is an actual DISGRACE that a man of my talent and absolute prestige like myself is being forced to compete in this match with the likes of all of you. It’s beneath me just as every single one of you are beneath me as well. You all treat my words as mere disrespect, but the true disrespect is the fact that this is where I am being placed. You all continue running your mouths, speaking just to hear your own voices. If this is all you have to offer, allow me to be the one who speaks the truth every single one of you needs to hear.
Igon Mordren: None of the so called “talent” in this ring can even come close to my skill level in the ring, and yet you all want to continue to bark like a bunch of flea ridden mutts as if any of the blasphemous tales that come out of your mouths hold any truth to them? You all make me SICK, and the mere fact that any of you think you’re getting past the only real wrestler here and getting an opportunity to become a champion is RIDICULOUS!
Igon Mordren: You all think that just by talking you all of a sudden are worthy of being a champion?!? This whole idea as a whole is a JOKE to professional wrestling and it is the utmost disrespectful thing that has been done to spite me, because I do one thing that nobody in this ring or out there watching is capable of doing nowadays; show some sort of respect to this once great sport. A sport that has become the equivalent to a circus and even worse, just the most abhorrent attempts at violent dumpster fires that have strayed away from the real art of professional wrestling itself!
(As some of the competitors attempt to talk back to Igon, he pushes through, speaks louder, and continues on.)
Igon Mordren: The adult is not finished talking yet! As you combine all of this and you compare the nonsense to myself you can clearly see this whole match is a disgrace as none of these people could lace up my boots and do the things I am capable of inside that ring! None of these so called “elitists” deserve to carry my bags or even shine my wrestling boots, just because of the fact that their inferiority does not deserve to be graced by my greatness as a professional wrestler! Something none of these fools can even respectfully call themselves at all!
(The crowd continues to boo as the rest of the competitors are starting to get annoyed by what Igon is saying as he continues with the rant, being louder than he was before.)
Igon Mordren: You continue to boo the greatness standing before you while you clap and cheer for utter mediocrity! Other people want to make sure they’re gracious for this chance or say they don’t care as long as they can get an opportunity, but I find this all just pathetic! I know my worth and I should be in the ring with the best this company has to offer not a bunch of low life experienced elitists because I am the greatest wrestler on this planet and I deserve some damn resp–
Rich Russillo: WOAH!! BEFORE IGON COULD SAY ANYTHING ELSE REYLIN HEARD ENOUGH AND PUNCHED IGON RIGHT IN THE FACE!!! NOW EVERYONE IS GOING AFTER IGON AND PUNCHING HIM AND THROWING FOREARMS AT HIS HEAD!!! IGON IS GETTING JUMPED AS WE SPEAK LADIES AND GENTLEMEN!!!
(The crowd cheers for this as they too have had enough of Igon’s complaining! Igon goes right down as soon enough everyone in this scramble match is stomping right at him.)
Thadd Blazevich: IGON BRO SHOULD HAVE THOUGHT TWICE BEFORE HE DECIDED TO BADMOUTH EVERYONE IN THIS MATCH!! THESE COMPTITORS HEARD ENOUGH FROM WHAT HE WAS SAYING AND YOU KNOW WHAT BRO?? I THINK IT’S JUSTIFIED!!!
Persephone: IGON ROLLS OUT OF THE RING AND– NOW TAFAE CLOBBERS WINONA WITH A RIGHT AND SHE CLOBBERS TAFAE WITH A RIGHT OF HIS OWN!!! MALIK AND CAPTAIN CHARISMA MANAGES TO GET OUT THE RING AS NOW THE REST OF THE FIELD ARE ATTACKING ONE ANOTHER!!
Thadd Blazevich: IT’S PANDEMONEUM HERE ON VOLTAGE BROS!!!
Rich Russillo: SAYURI AND REYLIN ARE NOW BUDDING HEADS WITH EACH OTHER!! DIEGO AND REI ARE TRADING FOREARMS WITH EACH OTHER!!! THIS IS INSANE!!!
Thadd Blazevich: TAFAE GOES FOR ANOTHER STRIKE TOWARDS WINONA BUT SHE REVERSES IT AND PUSHES TAFAE TOWARDS REYLIN!!! REYLIN TURNS AROUND AND– THE TWO BRO ARE NOW TRADING SHOTS BACK AND FORTH!!! SAYURI AND WINONA ARE NOW GOING AT EACH OTHER!!! THIS IS TYPE OF CHAOS AND CARNAGE VOLTAGE IS KNOWN FOR!!!
(Captain Charisma calls for security to come out quickly to deescalate the whole situation.)
Rich Russillo: Igon is still laid out as all of this is going down, not aware of the riot he just incited as– now we see security rushing towards the ring!! Looking to separate everyone from each other as the crowd here tonight are ecstatic right now!!!
The Crowd: LET THEM FIGHT! LET THEM FIGHT!! LET THEM FIGHT!!!
Persephone: Oh that stinks they got everyone separated, no fun at all!
Rich Russillo: I think it was for the best as– WAIT A MINUTE REYLIN JUST PUNCHED A SECURITY GUARD AND ANOTHER ONE!!! THEY GO DOWN AS HE LEAPS TOWARDS TAFAE AS THE BRAWL BETWEEN THESE TWO CONTINUES ON!! SAYURI, AND WINONA ARE FIGHTING WITH SECURITY THEMSELVES AS THE CHAOS CONTINUES ON!!
Thadd Blazevich: THIS IS AN ALL OUT ASSAULT AS NOW– EVEN MORE SECURITY IS COMING DOWN TO THE RING TO SEPARATE EVERYONE THIS IS INSANE BRO!!! EVERYONE IS BEING ESCORTED OUT THE RING!!
(The scene ends with everyone being held back as Voltage continues elsewhere.)
(Sunday Night Voltage returns… to a different area away from the arena. A lone streetlight flickers in a dark, gloomy area of Springfield, Missouri, and as it does, a car is seen pulling up to a nearby corner. As the passenger-side seat opens, someone is seen making their way out.)
Silas Mason: This can’t be the place…
(Silas Mason is seen as he looks around, struck by a brisk wind and a chilling cold. It’s clear that this is the last place that he wants to be at the moment, but this wasn’t by his own volition. He digs into his pocket, taking out a piece of paper. As he opens it, an address is seen scribbled on it with sloppy handwriting. As he looks upward at a nearby street sign, he notes that this does, in fact, correlate with the location that he’s meant to be at.)
Silas Mason: …
(Silas grumbled under his breath as he dug his hands into his pockets, beginning to glance around… before he saw someone. A cloaked figure, standing right by an alleyway as they leaned against the brick wall of a nearby convenience store. Silas closed his eyes and exhaled; he knew that this might be the day that he died, but he also knew if he was in a location like this, this was the person that he needed to talk to.)
(He made his way over to the cloaked figure.)
Silas Mason: Excuse me, sir. I hope you don’t mind me asking, but I am looking for… “The Poon Palace”. Would you be of any help?
(The figure is seen looking up, their face obscured by the shadows projected by the hat that they have on. Silas half doesn’t expect an answer, but that’s until he hears a voice.)
???: Right this way…
(The figure turned and began to make their way into the alley, Silas practically shaking in his boots. What could this person take? His phone? His wallet? His dignity…? Who knows. But if this was La Farmacia’s sick way of playing a joke, taking him to a place that wasn’t even close to The Poon Palace and letting him die, unless…)
(No, this couldn’t be where The Poon Palace is, right…?)
(He couldn’t think that right now. As he’s led down an alley, the figure stops at a steel door. They knock, and as a small peephole slides open, a person inside takes a look at the person before looking at Silas Mason.)
Silas Mason: I actually think that I’m in the wrong location, I’m going to leave- AH!
(Before Silas can finish, the door swings open, an arm coming out of the shadows as he grabs a hold of him by his suit jacket, yanking him inside. The manager tumbles down to the ground, groaning in pain.)
Silas Mason: What the… Where am I-
(Silas stops himself as he looks around in disbelief. The inside is nothing like what he expected, looking more like a luxury hotel than the place he had just entered. Everything is clean and expensive, with beautiful women serving drinks and entertaining guests throughout the large lounge. Silas slowly gets back to his feet, completely caught off guard by what he sees.)
Silas Mason: This is the Poon Palace?
???: Welcome, Mr. Mason.
(Silas turns toward the voice and finds a woman waiting for him with a smile.)
Silas Mason: I’m sorry, I was expecting something a little more… well, based on what I know about TLA, I wasn’t expecting this.
???: Mr. TLA takes his business very seriously.
Silas Mason: Apparently.
(Silas adjusts his suit before following her farther into the building, and while he is still suspicious about everything that led him here, he cannot help looking around as they pass through the lounge. The women surrounding him immediately catch his attention, and Silas briefly forgets his frustration as one smiles at him while walking past.)
Silas Mason: Well, perhaps I judged this establishment too quickly.
(The woman continues leading Silas through the Poon Palace until they reach a private section of the lounge. TLA is sitting comfortably on one side of a large couch with his Unified Tag Team Championship beside him, while Dr. Bethany Blue sits nearby with her own title resting across her lap. TLA grins as soon as he sees Silas approaching.)
TLA: ORALE! Look who finally made it! Welcome to the Poon Palace, homie!
Silas Mason: You sent me into an alleyway in one of the worst-looking areas of Springfield, had some strange man lead me toward an unmarked steel door, and then somebody dragged me inside before I could even explain who I was.
TLA: Yeah, that’s the VIP entrance.
Silas Mason: Of course it is.
Dr. Bethany Blue: You’re here now, aren’t you?
Silas Mason: Against my better judgment.
(TLA gestures toward an empty seat across from them, and Silas hesitates before sitting down. He looks around once more, still taking in everything surrounding him before finally turning his attention toward the Unified Tag Team Champions.)
Silas Mason: I will give you this, TLA. Whatever I expected when I heard the words “Poon Palace,” this certainly wasn’t it. You have clearly put an extraordinary amount of money into this place, and while I still have serious questions about practically everything happening around me, I can appreciate a successful business when I see one.
TLA: See? Knew you would fuck with it once you got inside. Everybody hear Poon Palace and think we running some busted ass spot outta somebody’s basement. Nah, cabrón, we classy up in here. Got that luxury poon. Five-star poon. We got standards.
Silas Mason: I can see that.
(Silas’ eyes briefly wander toward another woman passing their table before Bethany clears her throat.)
Dr. Bethany Blue: Silas.
Silas Mason: I was observing the establishment.
Dr. Bethany Blue: I’m sure you were.
Silas Mason: You invited me here, Doctor. The least you can do is allow me to appreciate the hospitality.
TLA: Let the man appreciate the scenery, Doctora. Silas done walked through the hood thinking he was finna die just to get here. Homie earned a minute.
Silas Mason: Thank you, TLA. That may be the first reasonable thing you have said since this entire situation began, because I still cannot understand why Territorial Invasion needs to happen here. Ryan and Vincent earned an opportunity at those Unified Tag Team Championships, and instead of allowing them to compete under normal circumstances, the two of you decided that everyone needed to come fight inside your nightclub.
TLA: Ain’t just a nightclub, homie.
Silas Mason: I am not calling it what you want me to call it.
TLA: You just did like five minutes ago.
(Silas looks irritated as TLA laughs, while Bethany shakes her head before leaning forward.)
Dr. Bethany Blue: We didn’t invite you here to have the same argument again, Silas. Ryan and Vincent already accepted the match, and regardless of how much you complained about it, they made that decision themselves. Territorial Invasion is happening here, so instead of wasting our time arguing over something that isn’t changing, we thought it might be helpful for you to actually see the place before you bring Cataclysm into it.
Silas Mason: And I accepted your invitation because despite my objections, I am willing to hear you out. I am not unreasonable, Bethany, regardless of whatever impression TLA may have given you about me.
TLA: Nah, I think you did that shit yourself.
Silas Mason: I wasn’t speaking to you.
(Silas turns back toward Bethany, his expression becoming noticeably friendlier.)
Silas Mason: You know I have tremendous respect for you. I have made that clear before, and I meant every word. You are intelligent, accomplished, ruthless when necessary, and unlike many people in this company, you understand that success requires more than simply walking into a ring and hoping talent carries you through. Frankly, those are exactly the qualities that I look for in someone who could thrive in Silas World.
(Bethany raises an eyebrow.)
Dr. Bethany Blue: So this is another recruitment pitch?
Silas Mason: I wouldn’t call it a pitch. I simply believe that when I see someone with your ability, I would be foolish not to consider what we could accomplish together. You have already achieved more than most people ever will, but you have made it clear that you aren’t finished, and neither am I.
TLA: Damn, Silas. You came all the way to my Palace and started trying to steal my partner?
Silas Mason: Nobody is stealing anyone. Bethany is perfectly capable of making her own decisions, and I respect her enough to know that.
Dr. Bethany Blue: Then respect me enough to understand that I’m happy exactly where I am.
Silas Mason: For now.
(Bethany gives Silas an unimpressed look, but before she can respond, a woman approaches carrying a tray with three drinks. TLA immediately grins, while Silas casually turns toward her before his expression suddenly changes.)
Silas Mason: …Kennedy?
(The woman looks confused.)
???: Excuse me?
(Silas stares at her, visibly unsettled by how closely she resembles Kennedy Street. She places the drinks on the table before smiling politely.)
???: Enjoy.
(She walks away, but Silas continues watching her until she disappears into the crowd.)
Silas Mason: What the hell was that?
TLA: What was what?
Silas Mason: That woman looked exactly like Kennedy Street.
TLA: Oh, her? Nah, that ain’t Kennedy.
Dr. Bethany Blue: Are you okay?
Silas Mason: I am perfectly fine. I simply wasn’t expecting to see someone who looks exactly like a woman who has spent a considerable amount of time making my life difficult.
TLA: Damn. Small world.
(Silas slowly looks toward TLA, who innocently takes a drink. Before Silas can question him further, another woman walks past their table, and Silas immediately does a double take.)
Silas Mason: Wait a minute.
(The woman bears an uncanny resemblance to Alana Starr. Silas watches her pass before another woman walks through the lounge moments later, this one looking remarkably similar to Sienna Swann.)
Silas Mason: No. Absolutely not.
Dr. Bethany Blue: What now?
Silas Mason: That was Sienna Swann.
TLA: Nah.
Silas Mason: I know what Sienna Swann looks like! I spent an entire match sitting beside that insufferable woman on commentary last week! I used to manage her!
TLA: Maybe you seeing things, vato. All that stress ain’t healthy.
Dr. Bethany Blue: He’s right about that part.
(Silas looks around the room more carefully before spotting another woman near the bar who looks like Veena Adams. Someone resembling Harper Lee soon walks past, followed by women who look just like Bea Valentine and Pandora Paisley.)
Silas Mason: Alright, what the hell is going on here?
TLA: What you mean?
Silas Mason: Do not play stupid with me! Kennedy Street, Alana Starr, Sienna Swann, Veena Adams, Harper Lee, Bea Valentine, Pandora Paisley; somehow every woman who has made my life difficult since I arrived in EAW has a nearly identical counterpart working inside your establishment?!
TLA: Damn, you got problems with a lotta women.
Dr. Bethany Blue: I was thinking the same thing.
Silas Mason: That is completely beside the point! There is no possible way that this is a coincidence, and I refuse to sit here while the two of you pretend otherwise.
TLA: Homie, Poon Palace got locations all over the world. We employ a whole lotta people. Sometimes somebody gonna look familiar.
Silas Mason: Seven times?!
TLA: We got a big staff.
(Silas looks between TLA and Bethany, neither giving him the answer he wants. He reaches for his drink but stops before touching it, suddenly eyeing the glass with suspicion.)
Silas Mason: What exactly is in this?
Dr. Bethany Blue: Silas, nobody poisoned your drink.
TLA: We got standards, remember?
Silas Mason: Forgive me if I am beginning to question those standards!
(Silas pushes the drink away before noticing someone else across the room. His eyes widen as a woman dressed like El Duque walks through the lounge, leaving Silas staring at her in silence.)
Silas Mason: …
TLA: What now?
Silas Mason: Is that woman dressed as El Duque?
TLA: Maybe.
Silas Mason: Why?
TLA: Everybody got they thing.
(Silas looks at Bethany, hoping for some kind of explanation, but she merely lifts her drink to her lips.)
Silas Mason: Alright, now.
(TLA struggles to hold back a laugh as Silas rises slightly from his seat, looking around at the increasingly familiar faces surrounding him. He slowly sits back down, adjusting his suit while trying to regain his composure.)
Silas Mason: I came here because despite the ridiculous circumstances surrounding this match, I believed there was some value in having a civilized conversation with the two of you. I was even willing to overlook the alleyway, the secret entrance, and the fact that I was physically dragged into this building. But now I am sitting in the middle of a room surrounded by women who look exactly like people I have spent months dealing with, and somehow I am supposed to believe this is all one enormous coincidence.
TLA: You should relax, homie. Territorial Invasion ain’t even here yet.
(Silas slowly turns toward TLA as the Unified Tag Team Champion leans back with a grin.)
TLA: This is just the tour.
Silas Mason: …
(Silas has seemingly had enough at this point. All of this… was clearly not getting anywhere.)
Silas Mason: You just think you’re so funny do you?
TLA: Si.
(Silas glances at Bethany, expecting a response once again, but the only thing that she does is shrug her shoulders.)
Silas Mason: Well, I don’t think you’re funny.
TLA: Aw dude. Lo siento, homie.
Silas Mason: In fact, I think this huge joke is exactly why Territorial Invasion is going to be your reckoning. Whether it’s in a ring, whether it’s… HERE! That doesn’t matter.
Dr. Bethany Blue: Can’t you just learn to calm down-
Silas Mason: WHY SHOULD I CALM DOWN?!
(Silas screams, completely fuming, but as he does, he closes his eyes and composes himself.)
Silas Mason: Right. I think I’ve had just about enough.
(Silas turns around and makes his way out of the Poon Palace, neither TLA nor Bethany stopping him.)
Silas Mason: … Get them.
(Bethany and TLA immediately get on alert, but it’s too late, seemingly out of the shadows, having snuck through the door… CATACLYSM burst into the scene and blindside the Champions!)
(Vincent Mondrian and Ryan Joseph Wilson take them down in front of the couch, beginning to stomp the two of them down. Bethany and TLA try to recover, but they’re struggling to push through considering this unexpected result! Vincent and Ryan grab both of them back up…)
(But both of them are beginning to fight back! Bethany and TLA are delivering punches as this begins to spiral into an all-out brawl! Vincent and Ryan still have a small upperhand, but before they’re able to do anything completely…)
Silas Mason: AGH! AH! HELP! RYAN! VINCENT!
(Ryan and Vincent both look over and see that the lookalike poons from earlier have started to jump Silas. The Kennedy Street poon has her in a chokehold while the El Duque mask is muffling his face. CATACLYSM quickly breaks away from TLA and Bethany, charging toward them as they try to rip them off of Silas.)
(CRASH!)
(But as they do that, TLA grabs a nearby vase and smashes it against the back of Vincent’s head! He’s dropped down to the ground, and as Ryan quickly turns around, he’s attacked by both members of La Farmacia and the poons collectively, as it’s an all out mugging!)
(They’re pushed toward the door, as the poons grab a hold of Ryan and throw him through the door! La Farmacia then proceeds to grab a hold of Vincent and Silas as well, as all three of them are unceremoniously booted out of the Poon Palace, straight out the front door!)
(As Silas World land in the cold alley, they quickly look up to see Bethany and TLA looking down at them.)
Dr. Bethany Blue: And STAY OUT!
(Bethany turns around and reenters the Poon Palace, while TLA glances at the three of them, smirking as he turns as well. Silas manages to recover and tries to lunge at the door, but while he does…)
(SLAM!)
(It’s shut right in his face! Silas stares at the door, completely fuming as Ryan and Vincent are behind him making their way back up themselves, not looking all too happy about what just happened either.)
Silas Mason: I… we…
(Silas takes a moment to compose himself as he takes a couple of deep breaths, before glancing over to CATACLYSM with a glare.)
Silas Mason: We… MUST be prepared for every… *dirty* trick that those two will try and pull at Territorial Invasion. Those Unified Tag Team Championships are OURS.
(Ryan and Vincent look toward one another, nodding their heads in agreement, not even needing to say anything to one another. After a moment, Silas straightens out his suit.)
Silas Mason: Let’s get out of this dump.
(Silas turns and makes his way out of the alleyway where the Poon Palace is located, while the other two quickly follow suit. It’s the very last shot seen before Sunday Night Voltage begins to fade to elsewhere.)
(Commercial for DLSS 5 with Jon Kelton.)
(The camera cuts to Bella Braxton in the ring.)
Bella Braxton: THE FOLLOWING CONTEST IS SCHEDULED FOR… ONE FALL!!
Crowd: ONE FALL!!
(‘Life is Short, O Brave Girl’ by HANABIE. hits as Miku Sakai makes her way onto the stage alongside her sister, Kiko Sakai. Miku wears a confident smirk as she looks out at the crowd, while the much more composed Kiko stays close behind her as the two begin making their way down the ramp.)
Bella Braxton: Introducing first! Accompanied to the ring by Kiko Sakai! Hailing from Fukui, Japan, weighing in at 110 pounds… SHE IS “THE AUDACITY”… MIKU SAKAI!!
Thadd Blazevich: Miku’s got a big opportunity coming up at Territorial Invasion, bro, but things haven’t exactly gone her way lately.
Rich Russillo: Kai Rabeaux pinned Miku in tag team action two weeks ago, and Miku still insists that was nothing more than a fluke.
Thadd Blazevich: Yeah, and after what Miku and Kiko did to Kai last week, dude, I don’t think the Hardcore Champion is gonna forget about that anytime soon.
(‘Ambitionz az a Ridah’ by Tupac hits to a loud pop as TLA drives onto the stage in his lowrider with Dr. Bethany Blue riding in the passenger seat. The Unified Tag Team Champions have their titles around their waists as TLA brings the lowrider to a stop, allowing both to step out and remove their championships. TLA and Bethany clink their titles together before draping them over their shoulders and making their way down the ramp, with TLA high-fiving fans along the way.)
Bella Braxton: And her opponent! Accompanied to the ring by Dr. Bethany Blue! Hailing from Tlaxcala, Mexico, weighing in at 210 pounds… HE IS ONE HALF OF THE EAW UNIFIED TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS… “LA PANTERA SEXUAL”… TLA!!
Rich Russillo: TLA and Bethany Blue already had an eventful night at the Poon Palace earlier, and now TLA turns his attention toward Miku Sakai.
Thadd Blazevich: And TLA knows he can’t take Miku lightly, bro. She’ll take any opening she can get, and having Kiko out here only makes her more dangerous.
Persephone: Great. So both of them brought somebody to ringside. I’m sure that won’t become a problem.
(The referee signals for the bell as both competitors stand in opposing corners.)
(DING! DING! DING!)
Rich Russillo: There’s the bell, and we’re underway! TLA versus Miku Sakai! One half of the Unified Tag Team Champions going one-on-one with the number one contender to the Hardcore Championship! I’m excited to see how this one plays out as both competitors circle each other to start things off… and as expected, they meet in the middle with a collar and elbow tie-up!
Thadd Blazevich: TLA has the size and strength advantage over Miku Sakai, and he uses it early to back her into the corner! TLA keeps Miku pinned there before she manages to turn things around, forcing him back against the ropes! TLA quickly reverses and pins her against the ropes instead, with both competitors fighting for position! Miku manages to put TLA against the ropes again— BUT TLA REVERSES FOR A SECOND TIME, PINNING HER RIGHT BACK AGAINST THEM!
Rich Russillo: Miku grabs hold of TLA’s tights for some extra leverage, using them to maneuver him back into the corner! Sakai keeps TLA pinned there in the collar and elbow tie-up— BEFORE GRINDING HER FOREARM ACROSS HIS FACE! A little disrespect from Miku early on, and I don’t think TLA appreciated that whatsoever!
(Miku backs up slightly as TLA registers what just happened, his expression quickly turning to anger before LUNGING OUT OF THE CORNER WITH A SHOVE!)
Rich Russillo: OH! TLA returns the disrespect right back to Miku, who immediately rolls out of the ring to create some distance!
(Miku taunts TLA from ringside while he sticks his torso through the middle rope, demanding that she get back in the ring. TLA eventually nods and calmly walks toward the farthest corner, casually leaning back against it as he gives Miku plenty of space to re-enter.)
Rich Russillo: The ball’s in Miku’s court, what’s she gonna do?
Thadd Blazevich: Oh, she looks to be rolling back inside the ring— never mind.
(Miku rolls back inside, but immediately rolls right back out the moment she sees TLA marching toward her. Miku rounds the steel steps and continues walking around ringside, taking her sweet time as she taunts the fans in the front row before eventually making her way toward the top right steel steps, where she turns her attention to Bethany Blue at ringside.)
Persephone: Ugh, can she get back in the ring already? Nobody came here to watch Miku walk around ringside.
(Miku points toward TLA in the ring, taunting Bethany Blue off-mic before slowly making her way up the steel steps and finally re-entering. TLA patiently waits for her in the opposite corner, casually laying across the top rope like a hammock before dropping back down to his feet.)
Persephone: Fucking finally.
Thadd Blazevich: Gotta give TLA credit for staying calm through all of this.
Rich Russillo: Hey, he’s an EAW Hall of Famer. The dude’s seen it all, he’s been through it all, and he knows when somebody’s trying to bait a reaction out of him. Even Bethany Blue didn’t give Miku the reaction she wanted with all that taunting.
Thadd Blazevich: But Miku’s back inside the ring now, and both competitors begin circling each other once again… collar and elbow— NO! TLA BAITED HER IN! TLA slips behind Miku and quickly applies a standing side headlock! He wrenches on the hold momentarily before Miku backs him against the ropes and bounces him off— BUT TLA COMES BACK WITH A SHOULDER TACKLE!
Rich Russillo: THAT SHOULDER TACKLE FLOORS MIKU, AND TLA DROPS RIGHT INTO THE COVER! TLA lays across Sakai with a lateral press!
ONNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
Rich Russillo: MIKU KICKS OUT! TLA rolls off of her and through to his feet as Miku scrambles back to hers— AND SAKAI SWINGS WILDLY WITH A RIGHT HAND! BUT TLA DUCKS UNDERNEATH! TLA quickly grounds Miku once again with A STANDING SIDE HEADLOCK TAKEDOWN! TLA has the side headlock cinched in, wrenching on the hold and applying pressure!
Persephone: Oh, come on. We finally get Miku back in the ring and now I have to watch a headlock? Can somebody please do something interesting?
Thadd Blazevich: MIKU ROLLS TLA ONTO HIS SHOULDERS FOR A COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
Thadd Blazevich: NO!
Rich Russillo: Miku tried to pull a fast one there, but TLA rolls back into position for that grounded side headlock and continues wrenching on the hold! He never let go of it— BUT MIKU MANAGES TO ROLL TLA OFF OF HER! Both competitors scramble back to their feet, but Miku is just a bit quicker as SHE CATCHES TLA WITH A KICK TO THE GUT! TLA doubles over before Miku stands him upright— AND CRACKS HIM WITH A FOREARM!
Thadd Blazevich: TLA staggers into the corner, and Miku follows him in before lining him up— KNIFE EDGE CHOP ACROSS THE CHEST! Man, you could hear that one echo throughout the entire arena!
Rich Russillo: I believe Miku Sakai has TLA right where she wants him, at least judging by that smile, and she sends him across to the opposite corner with an Irish whip! TLA GOES UP AND OVER MIKU! TLA takes off toward the ropes, prompting Miku to duck down, perhaps looking for a back body drop— BUT TLA BARREL ROLLS OVER HER BACK AND LANDS ON HIS FEET BEHIND HER! Miku spins around with a clothesline, BUT TLA DUCKS UNDERNEATH AND ROLLS THROUGH! BACK HANDSPRING INTO A HEADSCISSORS TAKEDOWN!
Thadd Blazevich: MIKU ROLLS THROUGH TO HER FEET AS TLA KIPS RIGHT BACK TO HIS— DROPKICK! TLA catches her flush and sends Miku tumbling out underneath the bottom rope!
Rich Russillo: Miku struggles back to her feet on wobbly legs at ringside as TLA RUNS OFF THE ROPES FOR A— OH! I thought he was going for a suicide dive, and apparently Miku did too! She moves out of the way at the last second, BUT TLA FAKES HER OUT WITH A FRONT ROLL OVER THE TOP ROPE AND ONTO THE APRON! Miku realizes she’s been fooled and rushes toward him— BUT TLA BLASTS HER IN THE FACE WITH A BICYCLE KICK FROM THE APRON!
Thadd Blazevich: Miku’s on spaghetti legs after that kick spins her around, and now she’s doubled over at ringside behind TLA! He looks over his shoulder, sees where she is and gets an idea— MOONSAULT OFF THE APRON! BUT MIKU MOVES OUT OF THE WAY! TLA sees it coming and LANDS ON HIS FEET!
(Miku quickly jumps in front of Kiko at ringside as TLA goes to take a swing at her, only to duck behind Kiko and SHOVE her toward TLA! TLA catches Kiko before she can collide with him, leaving TLA to quickly let her go. The distraction gives Miku just enough time to strike—)
Rich Russillo: PUMP KICK! MIKU BLASTS TLA IN THE SIDE OF THE FACE WITH A PUMP KICK! TLA is left on wobbly legs, and Miku quickly grabs hold of him— BEFORE THROWING TLA OVER THE CORNER OF THE BARRICADE AND INTO THE CROWD AREA!
(Miku rolls back inside the ring and makes her way to the corner, climbing onto the middle rope before raising both fists in triumph! Boos rain down throughout the arena as Miku proudly soaks them in, eventually looking down toward an unimpressed but composed Dr. Bethany Blue standing at ringside near the corner of the barricade in front of the ringpost.)
Persephone: Well, that’s what you get for being nice. Next time just let Kiko eat the punch.
Rich Russillo: Miku had absolutely no problem using her own sister as a meat shield there, and that might just score her the victory! TLA is still a bit out of it after being thrown over the barricade and into the crowd area!
Referee: …THREE!
Thadd Blazevich: TLA is starting to come around, shaking the cobwebs out of his head before using the barricade to help pull himself back to his feet.
(TLA slumps over the barricade, dropping onto his side at ringside before starting to crawl toward the ring.)
Referee: …FIVE!
(TLA pushes himself up to a knee…)
Referee: …SIX!
Rich Russillo: TLA BEATS THE COUNT AT SIX! TLA slides back inside the ring— BUT BEFORE HE CAN EVEN GET BACK UP, MIKU SENDS HIM RIGHT BACK OUT UNDERNEATH THE BOTTOM ROPE WITH A BASEBALL SLIDE DROPKICK TO THE SIDE OF THE HEAD!
Thadd Blazevich: TLA rolls onto all fours at ringside, right back to square one as he struggles to shake the cobwebs from his head! Miku isn’t about to give him any breathing room either, sliding out underneath the bottom rope and closing in as TLA tries to recover! Miku drags TLA back to his feet— AND CRACKS HIM WITH A FOREARM!
Rich Russillo: THAT SHOT ROCKS TLA! TLA staggers backward before falling onto his backside, and he continues scooting his way up the ramp as Miku stalks after him! Sakai grabs TLA and hauls him back to his feet, getting him into position— DDT ON THE DIAMOND PLATE!! MIKU JUST SPIKED TLA HEAD FIRST ONTO THE DIAMOND PLATE!
Persephone: Finally. First exciting move of the match.
Thadd Blazevich: Dude, that was a nasty landing! Miku is writhing in pain herself, favoring her back after hitting that DDT, BUT TLA IS DOWN AND MIGHT BE OUT! Sakai grits through the pain and forces herself back to her feet before hurrying toward the ring and rolling inside! MIKU IS DEMANDING THAT THE REFEREE COUNT TLA OUT! She doesn’t care how she gets the victory, bro. As long as she wins, that’s all that matters!
Referee: ONE! …TWO! …THREE! …FOUR!
Rich Russillo: The referee reaches the count of four, and TLA is finally starting to show some signs of life!
Referee: SIX! …SEVEN!
Rich Russillo: TLA’S BACK TO HIS FEET! He’s still on spaghetti legs after that DDT, but TLA is staggering toward the ring!
Persephone: C’mon! Count faster, ref!
Referee: EIGHT! …NINE!
(TLA reaches the ring and leans forward against the apron, struggling to shake the cobwebs out of his head.)
Referee: …TE—
Rich Russillo: TLA BEATS THE COUNT! TLA ROLLS BACK INSIDE AT THE LAST POSSIBLE SECOND UNDERNEATH THE BOTTOM ROPE— BUT MIKU IMMEDIATELY POUNCES INTO ACTION! Sakai doesn’t give him a second to recover, pulling TLA back up for A SNAP SUPLEX! AND MIKU FLOATS RIGHT OVER INTO THE COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
Rich Russillo: SHOULDER UP! TLA gets the shoulder up, but Miku stays right on him and drags him back to his feet! Sakai directs TLA toward the corner, looking to SLAM HIM FACE FIRST OFF THE TOP TURNBUCKLE— BUT TLA GETS BOTH HANDS UP TO BLOCK IT! Miku tries to force him forward, BUT TLA EXPLODES WITH A FOREARM THAT STAGGERS HER BACK! AND TLA FOLLOWS WITH A KNIFE EDGE CHOP ACROSS THE CHEST!
Thadd Blazevich: BUT MIKU FIRES BACK WITH A KICK TO THE GUT! TLA doubles over momentarily from that shot— BUT HE IMMEDIATELY ANSWERS WITH ANOTHER KNIFE EDGE CHOP ACROSS THE CHEST! TLA’s still feeling the effects of that DDT, dude, but he’s starting to fight his way back into this!
Rich Russillo: TLA backs Miku into the corner and looks to Irish whip her across to the opposite— BUT MIKU REVERSES AND SENDS TLA STERNUM FIRST INTO THE TOP TURNBUCKLE! MIKU PUT EVERYTHING SHE HAD INTO THAT WHIP! TLA crashes hard before dropping to the mat, WRITHING IN PAIN AND COUGHING AFTER THAT COLLISION!
Thadd Blazevich: Miku’s managed to create herself an opening, and she isn’t wasting it! Sakai heads over to TLA and pulls him back up before snapmaring him down to a seated position— AND LOCKING IN A REAR CHINLOCK! Miku has that chinlock applied tight, looking to slow things down and wear TLA out after driving the air out of him moments ago!
Rich Russillo: But look at Bethany Blue! Bethany starts pounding her hand against the mat at ringside, and it isn’t long before the crowd joins in, willing TLA back into this fight! TLA starts powering back to his feet, feeding off that energy as he fights against Miku’s grip— AND FORCES HER TO BREAK WITH A JAWBREAKER! MIKU IS STUNNED AS TLA GETS BACK TO HIS FEET— KNIFE EDGE CHOP ACROSS THE CHEST!
Thadd Blazevich: AND TLA BACKS HER TOWARD THE CORNER WITH ANOTHER! Another knife edge chop connects, and once Miku reaches the corner, TLA winds up for a third— BUT MIKU CATCHES HIM WITH A KICK TO THE GUT MID WIND UP! TLA doubles over, allowing Sakai to turn the tables and position him in the corner before looking for an Irish whip to the opposite side!
Rich Russillo: WAIT! TLA REVERSES AND SENDS MIKU SAKAI ACROSS INSTEAD! TLA charges in after her— BUT MIKU SENDS HIM UP AND OVER HER SHOULDER! TLA catches himself on the apron, and Miku winds back for a right hand— BUT TLA CATCHES HER WITH A ROPE-ASSISTED ENZUIGIRI! Miku stumbles away toward the center of the ring, leaving TLA with an opening as he springs onto the top rope— VERY MEXICAN UPPERCUT!!
Thadd Blazevich: MIKU GOT LEVELED! Sakai rolls out underneath the bottom rope and struggles back to her feet on spaghetti legs at ringside, while TLA sees exactly where she is! TLA starts building momentum inside the ring, racing toward the ropes— FOSBURY FLOP!!
Persephone: Ooooh, he did a flip. Truly groundbreaking stuff.
Rich Russillo: TLA ROLLS MIKU BACK INSIDE AND HOPS ONTO THE APRON! Sakai is down as TLA lines her up, waiting for her to get into position before launching himself— SPRINGBOARD CROSSBODY! TLA CRASHES DOWN ON MIKU AND STAYS RIGHT ON TOP OF HER FOR THE COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
Rich Russillo: MIKU KICKS OUT, AND TLA POPS RIGHT BACK TO HIS FEET! TLA creates some space before charging in— RUNNING SHOOTING STAR PRESS! A little standing version of his 420, and TLA hooks the leg deep!
ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHHHHH—
Thadd Blazevich: KICKOUT! MIKU STAYS ALIVE! But TLA is already back to his feet, and he drags Miku closer toward the corner! Dude knows exactly what he’s doing here. That’s perfect positioning for a dive!
(TLA steps out onto the apron and points toward Kiko at ringside, warning her not to try anything before beginning to scale the turnbuckles.)
Rich Russillo: MIKU! MIKU JUMPS BACK TO HER FEET— CAT SCRATCH FEVER!! MIKU STARTS CLAWING AT THE EYES OF TLA ON THE TOP TURNBUCKLE! TLA is desperately trying to shield his face, but Miku keeps clawing away until HE’S FORCED TO SIT DOWN ON THE TOP TURNBUCKLE, TEMPORARILY BLINDED!
Thadd Blazevich: TLA taking his attention off Miku for even a second might’ve given her the extra recovery time she needed, and now Sakai climbs onto the middle rope! Miku hooks TLA up, LOOKING FOR A SUPERPLEX— BUT TLA STARTS BATTLING BACK WITH SHOTS TO THE GUT! TLA fights his way out of Miku’s clutches and STARTS HAMMERING HER IN THE FACE WITH MULTIPLE FOREARMS! Miku is barely hanging on— AND TLA FINALLY KNOCKS HER OFF WITH A HEADBUTT! HEADBUTT BY TLA!
Rich Russillo: MIKU CRASHES DOWN TO THE CANVAS! And just like that, Sakai is right back in perfect position as TLA steadies himself on the top rope… BURNOUT!! TLA GOES FOR THE CORKSCREW 630 SENTON— BUT MIKU ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY! TLA sees it coming and rolls through to his feet! Miku shoots out of the corner, TLA charges toward her as well— BICYCLE KNEE STRIKE!
Thadd Blazevich: BUT MIKU SIDESTEPS IT! TLA turns back around and swings wildly— BUT MIKU DUCKS UNDERNEATH AND HOOKS BOTH ARMS FROM BEHIND! Sakai tries to capitalize, BUT TLA FLINGS HER OVER HIS SHOULDER WITH A WRISTLOCK TAKEOVER! Miku rolls through to her feet in the corner, and TLA immediately comes charging in— RUNNING VERY MEXICAN UPPERCUT!!
Rich Russillo: THAT NO DOUBT JACKED MIKU’S JAW! TLA grabs hold of her and looks for an Irish whip across to the opposite corner— BUT MIKU TWISTS HIS ARM AND CATCHES TLA WITH A STUNNER!! TLA staggers backward into the corner while Miku remains seated on the canvas! Sakai watches as TLA comes groggily stumbling back out— VICTORY ROLL! MIKU ROLLS UP TLA! BUT LOOK AT WHAT SHE’S DOING!
Thadd Blazevich: MIKU HAS A HOLD OF THE BOTTOM ROPE FOR EXTRA LEVERAGE!!
ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHHHHHHHHRRRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEE—
(The referee abruptly stops the count as Bethany points out from ringside that Miku has a hold of the bottom rope! Miku is forced to release the cover, and she immediately turns to angrily stare out at Bethany, furious that she interfered while TLA begins stirring back to his feet behind her…)
Rich Russillo: TLA’s back to his feet as Miku turns around— AND SIDESTEPS A CHARGE BY TLA! TLA GOES FACE FIRST INTO THE MIDDLE TURNBUCKLE, DROPPING TO A KNEE AND MIKU HOOKS HIM UP FROM BEHIND BEFORE BRINGING HIM CLOSER TO THE MIDDLE FOR A DRAGON SUPLEX! BRIDGING ON THE COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHHHHHHHRRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEE—
Thadd Blazevich: KICKOUT!
Persephone: Oh my God, just stay down! How many near falls do we need before somebody finally loses?!
(Miku rises to a knee, using the ropes for assistance while keeping her eyes locked on Bethany Blue at ringside. However, Miku’s gaze soon shifts toward the ramp as Kai Rabeaux calmly makes his way down with the Hardcore Championship folded underneath his arm. It isn’t long before Bethany turns toward the ramp herself, threatening Kai off-mic while Rabeaux raises a hand and signals that he means no harm.)
Rich Russillo: And here comes Kai Rabeaux! The Hardcore Champion has decided to get a closer look at his number one contender, but after everything that happened between Kai and Bethany Blue, I don’t blame her for making sure he keeps his distance!
(Bethany is so distracted by Kai at first that she doesn’t even notice Ryan Wilson and Vincent Mondrian jumping the barricade behind her! Both men slide into the ring as TLA rises to a knee—)
Thadd Blazevich: OH! RYAN AND VINCENT JUST HIT THE RING! THEY BLINDSIDE TLA, KNOCKING HIM INTO MIKU SAKAI!! BEFORE PUTTING THE BOOTS TO HIM ON THE MAT!
(DING! DING! DING! DING! DING!)
(Bethany Blue finally looks over her shoulder toward the ring and realizes what’s happening, spotting Ryan and Vincent stomping TLA out! Bethany immediately throws her title aside and slides into the ring to help him! Miku Sakai turns around toward the commotion, but seems more annoyed than anything as Bethany slides right past her!)
Rich Russillo: BETHANY! BETHANY HITS THE RING AND RYAN SWINGS FOR A RIGHT HAND— BUT BLUE BLOCKS IT! BETHANY FIRES BACK WITH A RIGHT OF HER OWN! Blue grabs Ryan and directs him toward the corner— SLAMMING HIM FACE FIRST OFF THE TOP TURNBUCKLE! NOW BETHANY STARTS UNLOADING WITH RIGHTS IN THE CORNER AS RYAN TRIES TO COVER UP!
Thadd Blazevich: BUT VINCENT COMES FROM BEHIND! Bethany never saw him coming! VINCENT BLINDSIDES BLUE WHILE HER BACK IS TURNED! Mondrian clubs down on Bethany in the corner, and now she’s the one trying to cover up as Vincent hammers away!
Persephone: This is already more entertaining than the match was.
Rich Russillo: BUT TLA’S BACK UP, AND HE RE-ENTERS THE FRAY! TLA JUMPS ON VINCENT FROM BEHIND AND STARTS HAMMERING HIM WITH BLOWS! Mondrian manages to shove TLA backward before turning around— TJD!! VINCENT TURNS RIGHT INTO THE SUPERKICK! MONDRIAN IS ROCKED, AND HE STAGGERS BACK INTO TLA’S CLUTCHES— MEXICAN DEST— NO!
Thadd Blazevich: VINCENT DROPS DOWN AND SLITHERS OUT UNDERNEATH THE BOTTOM ROPE! Mondrian’s trying to get his wits together at ringside, BUT HE ISN’T SAFE OUT THERE EITHER! TLA sees Vincent trying to get away and takes off toward the ropes— SUICIDE DIVE!! TLA LAUNCHES HIMSELF THROUGH THE ROPES AND WIPES OUT VINCENT, TAKING HIMSELF DOWN IN THE PROCESS!
(Miku has been watching all of this unfold from inside the ring, but suddenly drops prone to the mat as Kai Rabeaux grabs hold of her from ringside and drags her out underneath the bottom rope!)
Thadd Blazevich: KAI! KAI’S CHOSEN HIS MOMENT TO STRIKE! Rabeaux drags Miku outside, AND NOW HIM AND MIKU ARE HOCKEY FIGHTING AT RINGSIDE! THEY’RE THROWING FISTICUFFS BACK AND FORTH— BUT MIKU GOUGES AT KAI’S EYES, USING IT TO BACK HIM UP AGAINST THE APRON!
Persephone: Of course she does.
Rich Russillo: NEVER UNLIKE EITHER OF THESE TWO TO PLAY A LITTLE DIRTY! Miku continues gouging at Kai’s eyes with his back against the apron— BUT SOMEHOW KAI STILL MANAGES TO DRIVE FORWARD! RABEAUX POWERS INTO MIKU, AND THE TWO GO TUMBLING OVER THE BARRICADE AND INTO THE CROWD AREA!
Thadd Blazevich: WHOA!
Rich Russillo: AND BACK INSIDE THE RING— RYAN WILSON TAKES BETHANY DOWN WITH A DOUBLE LEG! Wilson gets on top and STARTS RAINING DOWN RIGHT HANDS— BUT BETHANY ROLLS THROUGH AND GETS ON TOP OF RYAN! BLUE FIRES BACK BEFORE SLAMMING THE BACK OF HIS HEAD OFF THE MAT!
(Ryan manages to flip Bethany off of him, and Blue rolls through to her feet before both immediately pounce on each other for another hockey fight! Rights start flying from both sides, but security quickly floods the ring and pulls them apart, prompting boos from the crowd! More security rushes to ringside to keep TLA from getting at Vincent, who struggles back to his feet following the suicide dive!)
Persephone: Oh, bummer. Right when things got interesting.
Thadd Blazevich: AND MIKU AND KAI ARE STILL EXCHANGING RIGHTS IN THE CROWD AREA! Those two haven’t stopped swinging at each other, BUT SECURITY IS GETTING IN THERE TO BREAK THEM UP TOO!
Rich Russillo: Security is doing everything they can to get this situation under control! We’ve got TLA and Vincent trying to get at each other at ringside, Bethany and Ryan being held apart inside the ring, and Kai and Miku still trying to fight through security in the crowd!
(More security pours into the area as TLA continues shouting at Vincent from behind the group holding him back. Vincent tries to push his way through from the opposite side, while Ryan and Bethany continue struggling against security inside the ring. In the crowd, Miku and Kai are finally pulled away from each other, with Kiko quickly making her way over to Miku.)
Thadd Blazevich: Dude, this thing completely exploded! TLA and Bethany have Cataclysm coming for their titles at Territorial Invasion, Miku’s coming for Kai’s Hardcore Championship, and clearly nobody wants to wait until then to start throwing hands!
Persephone: Then stop separating them. Problem solved.
Rich Russillo: Security finally has everyone separated, but there is no calming any of these four down! We need to take a commercial break, but don’t go anywhere! We’ll be right back with more Sunday Night Voltage!
(The shouting continues throughout the arena as security keeps everyone separated, and Sunday Night Voltage fades to commercial.)
(Commercial for Vans with Avril Williams.)
(Sunday Night Voltage continues to show the backstage area of The Great Southern Bank Arena as we see Avril Williams in the locker room alongside Carmen Sánchez and Cynthia Valice. Avril is seen wearing her skater get-up and an orange beanie while Cynthia and Carmen are in their casual attire… All three of them are talking to one another, sitting together on the benches. The camera picks up on their conversation just as Carmen speaks up.)
Carmen Sánchez: You know, it’s very frustrating what happened last week. That was definitely not the way I wanted our road to Territorial Invasion to go. I was this close to securing the win, but it wasn’t enough. In the end, it was Clayton Golde who threw me through the middle ropes and stole the win over AKIZA. I couldn’t care less about his stupid opinions about me because, truthfully, he is the filth of this company, nothing but a bottom-tier bully who thinks he can get away with the bullshit he spews to the people who actually listen to his podcast. Him getting that win from me just doesn’t feel right. I should have done something else; I should have done better in that match because a win like that could have been really useful for us.
(Carmen is still not feeling all that great about what happened last week, but Avril responds endearingly…)
Avril Williams: Dude… don’t beat yourself up over it. I know it can be stressful and frustrating; trust me, I’ve already dealt with my fair share of annoying people here on Voltage. It’s definitely a bitter pill to swallow not to get that win, but what happened last week is in the past now. Can’t really change that, right? The best move for us is to move forward and look towards Territorial Invasion and the opportunity that we all have right now. Clayton got one win over you; we shouldn’t let that affect our chances of coming out on top of Divide and Conquer as the last remaining team before fighting each other.
(Cynthia is seen nodding in agreement with Avril as she then speaks up and tells Carmen…)
Cynthia Valice: Exactly what Av said! Don’t be too discouraged over what happened. It sucks; of course I’m not denying that, Carmen, but it doesn’t matter right now, and none of it is going to happen again. We’ve already had our setbacks before, like failing to capture the Hardcore title from Kai, but even with those setbacks… It’s not going to define how we want Territorial Invasion to end for us. Clayton may be a former champion, but he’s also a complete loser, and if we do things the right way and stay prepared for what’s to come, we’ll be able to handle not only him but the rest of the field too.
(Avril has a smile on her face as she replies to what Cynthia had said.)
Avril Williams: Hell yeah, dude! Like, again, I had to deal with Igon almost a month ago, and it kinda annoyed me that I wasn’t able to beat him, but I didn’t let that setback get to me. What matters is Territorial Invasion and getting a massive spotlight, like competing in Divide and Conquer.
(Carmen recognises what Cynthia and Avril are saying to her as she responds to them by saying…)
Carmen Sánchez: You guys are right; what happened is now in the past, and we have to look towards Territorial Invasion. I’m not going to let that perro get the better of me again. I can assure you guys of that! He’s nothing special, and when it’s really time to go at it, he won’t see what hit him. At the very least, I got to see what Clayton and AKIZA can do up close, and that will definitely help us, like how it helped you, Avril, when you took on Artemis and Yanni on Dynasty.
(Both Avril and Cynthia light up as they see Carmen recognising the positive that came from her match last week. They both respond to her by saying…)
Cynthia Valice: Yeah! That’s the spirit, Carmen!
Avril Williams: You do make a great point there, dude!
Carmen Sánchez: I know how much of a big deal Territorial Invasion is, especially the match we’re competing in. So many people that have won Divide and Conquer have become main staples within this promotion. Especially with elitists like us, this could be make-or-break for any of us, so I know the severity of competing in a match like this. I wanna make sure we outlast the other teams in this match. I want both of you there with me so we can fight it out from there.
(Both Cynthia and Avril nod at what Carmen is saying, Avril responds to her by saying…)
Avril Williams: Yep! I couldn’t agree with you more because the best-case scenario for us is all of us making it to the final three together, and so it ends in a triple threat match! I trust you guys will give it your all and try your best to eliminate the other people in the match. And again, Clayton may have gotten that win, but that just makes him overconfident heading into the Marquee Event. When you have your head as far up your own ass as Clayton does, you get humbled quickly. I already have a preview of what Artemis can do in the ring, and since he and his brother are a team, you can kinda put the pieces together when it comes to them. They’re straightforward, and that aggravates Clayton pretty noticeably. Team Showdown is a bit, you know…
Cynthia Valice: Discombobulated?
Avril Williams: Exactly!
Cynthia Valice: They’re still dangerous, and the same goes with Dynasty’s team, but again, if we work hard enough, we’ll do everything we can to take down both teams, and it leaves just the three of us. If it comes down to the three of us, whoever comes out on top will 100% deserve it. We’ll all be there to congratulate each other because if I don’t end up winning the whole thing and one of you does… it will sting less knowing that the win went to someone who worked just as hard to get there.
(Both Carmen and Avril smile at Cynthia’s words, as all three ladies are not just determined to win the match but to be there for each other, whoever does remain the last survivor of Divide and Conquer. Carmen then speaks once again as she says to Cynthia…)
Carmen Sánchez: I appreciate you guys saying that, and like Avril said, fighting it out in the end is the best-case scenario for all three of us, and I promise I will do my part to make sure that gets done. I have been in EAW for several months now, and with an opportunity like this… I won’t let myself get eliminated early and see someone else from another team take that away from us.
Cynthia Valice: I promise as well!!
Avril Williams: Same!
(Suddenly, Avril remembers something and turns directly to both Carmen and Cynthia…)
Avril Williams: I almost forgot, I got you guys something!
Carmen Sánchez: What is it?
(Avril leans over and grabs two shoeboxes; both Carmen and Cynthia look confused as Avril hands one to each of them. Carmen and Cynthia both look at each other before Avril says to them…)
Avril Williams: Come on, open it up, dude! I wanted to do something special for our match at Territorial Invasion.
(Carmen and Cynthia open the shoeboxes and take out custom-made matching Vans shoes! They have a unique design to them, as Cynthia and Carmen are smiling at the present Avril just gave them, and Cynthia is the first to speak to Avril.)
Cynthia Valice: Awww, these are so cute! Do you have a pair of your own, Av?
Avril Williams: Hell yeah, check them out!
(Avril points down to the Vans she’s wearing, and it’s the same Vans shoes she gifted Carmen and Cynthia. They all share this nice moment, signalling their united bond as a team for Territorial Invasion.)
Carmen Sánchez: That’s very nice of you, Avril. Thank you for the Vans. They look super cool.
Avril Williams: Appreciate it, guys. 🫶 That means a lot. Let’s do our thing and give it everything we got next weekend!
(Avril holds out her arms with a smile on her face, as the three of them embrace, sharing a hug. The enthusiasm and the confidence that they have for one another radiate greatly as they continue to share a cute moment. Finally, after some time, Avril stands up from her bench as she looks at both of them, smiling.)
Avril Williams: I gotta split, but I’ll see you guys later!
(Avril turns and begins to make her way out of the scene as Carmen and Cynthia wave to her while she leaves. Soon enough, the scene fades out and transitions elsewhere on Sunday Night Voltage.)
(A commercial is shown for Zyns featuring Jake Smith.)
(Sunday Night Voltage returns to show the backstage area of The Great Southern Bank Arena. There, Molly Waters is seen in a sit-down interview area, situated in her chair with a smile on her face as the crew finishes adjusting the mic around her collar. After a moment, she begins to speak.)
Molly Waters: Welcome back to Sunday Night Voltage! It’s been a great show so far leading into Territorial Invasion, and needless to say, one big mental evaluation into what is going on in the minds of some of this roster’s best with everything that’s been going on. Let’s not beat around the bush here, the feud between Jake Smith and Caroline has been something that we have never seen in EAW before, and one that has definitely rattled one of arguably this company’s most composed minds. Tonight, he is my guest in this exclusive interview, please welcome at this time… Jake Smith.
(The crowd inside of the arena is heard booing loudly at this. Molly takes a moment to wait, but after sometime… nobody shows up.)
Molly Waters: Uh…
(Molly rubs the back of her neck in an awkward manner, not expecting this to happen. But the cameraman on scene stands up from their stationary position, turning and making their way out of the room to see what’s going on, and their intuition was right.)
Jake Smith: Well check again. I shouldn’t even be here right now…
Buford Brunt: I promise, Jake, I’ve had security scan the perimeter and do a search inside… *She’s not here.*
Jake Smith: And you *know* that doesn’t make a difference.
Buford Brunt: Exactly. So why are you complaining? If anything, I think you would benefit from even seeing her right now.
(Jake glares, knowing that he’s right, but he doesn’t give him the satisfaction of an answer. He turns around and makes his way into the interview room alongside Buford, taking a seat across from Molly.)
Molly Waters: Oh, I’m glad that you could join us, Jake. Is everything alright?
(Jake kept a calm look on his face. Obviously, nothing was okay right now, but he didn’t need anything that would’ve made him angrier than he already is.)
Jake Smith: Just ask your questions already.
(Molly glances over at Buford, who is practically pleading with her with his eyes not to make him have to go through any more trouble.)
Molly Waters: To do that, we’re going to have to address what is going in between you and Caroline. How are you feeling?
(Jake scowls.)
Jake Smith: How do you think I’m feeling? Do you think I want to be put in this situation? Publicly belittled and *embarrassed* because of something that was never my fault. You know who’s fault this actually is? Caroline. If she actually wanted to settle this then we would’ve talked it out, we would’ve solved this issue together, but instead she decided that it would be in her best interest to create a rift between the two of us and bring the devil into it. What good does that do either of us?
Molly Waters: Have you ever considered the reason that she doesn’t want to talk to you because she’s already tried? Your history with one another pre-Bloodsport has been heavily documented.
Buford Brunt: Molly-
Jake Smith: No. It’s okay. I know I fucked up. I messed up in the past, but I atoned for that. What she’s done is a whole lot worse than *anything* that I could’ve done to her, and now we both have to pay the price by being subjected to this hell that she wishes to create, for what? To break this bond? To sever something that should have *never* been severed in the first place? Something that she didn’t even KNOW was possible in the first place! Completely ridiculous…
(Jake rubs his temple, but Molly continues to ask questions.)
Molly Waters: This bond that the two of you have, could you care to elaborate on that? I know that’s something that you have mentioned in detail, but I don’t think we know the specifics when it comes to something like that…
(Jake bats his eyes around as Molly is speaking, shifting around in his chair uncomfortably.)
Molly Waters: Are you okay?
(He waves her off as he goes on.)
Jake Smith: In exchange for what she did for me when we first encountered each other, I made an agreement to create an unbreakable bond with her. Just as she was there for me, I would be there for her, and while I firmly believe that I have held up my end of the bargain from the moment that we came to such a compromise… she doesn’t feel the same way. She feels as though she’s not getting anything back, even though I’ve done nothing but give her that for as long as we’ve been intertwined with one another. What makes her think otherwise is ridiculous. But if she wants to go through all this trouble to get rid of me? That’s fine. She’s going to have to be subjected to damnation while I continue the rest of my career. She fucked up. I gave her a chance, and now she has to pay for it.
Molly Waters: I’m sorry for questioning you, but haven’t you admitted yourself that it has “always been about Caroline”?
Jake Smith: I don’t know what you’re talking about.
Molly Waters: You admitted yourself that you still bear feelings for her. Is that true?
(Jake doesn’t immediately respond to this. In fact, this is something that he has to think about.)
Jake Smith: In a way-
(Jake stops himself mid speech, something feels off, the air feels different. Buford looks at him in confusion, as suddenly, Jake begins to tear his microphone off.)
Jake Smith: Interview done.
Buford Brunt: Wait-
Jake Smith: Interview DONE. We have to leave.
(Jake turns around and begins to make his way out of the scene, but before he can go any further…)
Molly Waters: AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jake Smith: WHAT THE FU-
(Jake is abruptly cut off as an electric whip strikes him in the back of the head. Buford starts screaming and when Caroline emerges from out of nowhere, the older man’s eyes go wide.)
Buford Brunt: W-WHY DO YOU KEEP DOING THIS?
(With a flick of her dainty wrist, the electric whip snakes around Buford’s neck and drags him to the ground. He screams in pain, grabbing at this neck, and that’s when a recovering Jake staggers to his feet. Caroline turns her attention to him and they lock eyes.)
(For a moment, they stared into the souls of one another.)
(Jake went to open his mouth but Caroline ripped the whip away from Buford and sent it right across Jake’s face. The sheer pain of the lash took the Hall of Famer to his knees and Caroline kicked him right in the face. She pressed her boot directly on his mouth, looked down at him with sheer disgust.)
Caroline: All this time you wish to talk, see me, and look into the eyes of the one you betrayed, and for what? There is but nothing to say at this stage and even if I were to show you even a sliver of pity I would hear nothing but the same tired lies. I do not believe you know what the truth is, Jake, because if that were the case, it would not surprise you that these steps are the ones I have taken.
(Dropping down, the petite blonde wrapped the whip around Jake’s throat and started to choke him out. He thrashed about and clawed at the weapon, but the only thing he did was burn his hands. The electricity or whatever it was that pulsating through Caroline’s weapon had little to no effect on her; no doubt gifted to her by Belial. Right as Jake’s movements became weak, Caroline released some of the pressure, allowing him to gasp in a lungful of air.)
Caroline: You were not there for me, no matter how hard you try to believe yourself. You rebuked me at every turn and hindered my path towards championship gold. I always fancied myself to be above everyone else when it came to trinkets, but it turns out that I am just as greedy as the rest of you. I wish to carry gold again and for you to say that I will be the one that ends up in damnation?
(Caroline tossed her blonde head back and laughed.)
Caroline: YOU will be the one forced into the servant’s role for once, and it is the fate you are deserving of.
Jake Smith: N-no… l-liste-
(Caroline tightened the whip around his neck again, this time pulling at it with all strength. Jake felt himself starting to slip away but he had to get his words out.)
Jake Smith: P-ple-
Caroline: SILENCE! If there is one thing I hope Belial strips you of first it is your voice.
(Jake closed his eyes, willing himself to hang on. Instead of grabbing for the whip, he seized Caroline’s wrists. The surprise of his touch, caused her to drop the whip, and Jake had enough strength left to flip her onto her back. She tried to push him off, but Jake gasped and coughed, getting his breath back and slammed her hands up above her head.)
Caroline: DO IT THEN! Show me everything I ostracized you for, give yourself a reason to see why I was right.
(Jake looked into her eyes, glaring into her soul.)
Jake Smith: I…
Caroline: SPIT IT OUT!
Jake Smith: I… have never cared about anybody in this pitiful existence… that was until I found you. In a sick, twisted, demented way… you made me whole. I’m not going to deny it, a part of me doesn’t just want you to leave to see what you’ll miss out on… a part of me doesn’t want you to leave because I don’t know what I’m going to do without you.
(Caroline’s hateful expression faltered for a moment, and it was enough to give Jake hope that their situation was still salvageable. But then her eyes darkened, and whatever hope there was vanished… just. like. that.)
Caroline: Words, Jake! From your lips to my ears, they have no meaning. You wish to save yourself by any means necessary and that is something we both know to be true. You do not wish to care for me, you wish to continue using me. You wish for me to stand silently by your side, fighting your battles, and keeping the enemies at bay. The MOMENT I attempted to secure something for MYSELF, YOU were there to thwart me at every turn! You made me look like a fool! There is not a single soul in this universe that blames me for going straight to Belial and begging him to release us from one another. I would rip my own LIMB from its SOCKET if it meant that I would no longer be tied to you! Remove yourself from me.
(Surprisingly… Jake does. The shock of him abiding pauses Caroline and doesn’t allow her to immediately lunge at him, but by the time she comes to her senses, Jake has already stood up and backed himself away. Buford is gasping for air still, the sounds of his wheezing being the only thing heard in the room.)
Jake Smith: This was NEVER about saving me… this was about saving us. The sum of our parts allows us to be a force that I *promised* you would be unstoppable. If I can’t convince you of such a thing… then I’m not going to go around continuing to try and beg for your forgiveness. It’s going to continue to fall onto deaf ears.
(Jake composed himself, finally able to catch his breath.)
Jake Smith: I will go through with what you have foretold at Territorial Invasion. But I am also not giving the devil what he wants. Just like you tried to break our bond, I KNOW that there is a way to fix it.
Caroline: There is no other way. How many times must we go through this? It will be a soul for a soul, and it will not be I.
(Jake raked a frustrated hand through his hair.)
Jake Smith: (muttering) You don’t get it, Car. You don’t fuckin’ get it.
Caroline: What? What is it that I supposedly do not understand?
(Jake gave her a sharp look.)
Jake Smith: YOU! He wants YOU! That is why he made that deal with you that you stupidly signed in blood. He has both of us on strings now, and if you think that I’m the one he plans to keep alongside him, then you’re blind. You’re fuckin’ blind and I’m pissed off about it. I’m pissed at YOU!
(Caroline opened her mouth to respond, but Jake turned his back. Once again, it was Buford’s wheezes that filled the air and ‘The Queen of Shadows’ balled her hands into fists.)
Caroline: I promise that if your pig squeals one more time I will gut him and use the entrails for Fall decor this year.
Jake Smith: That… will be the least of your concerns…
Caroline: You don’t know what you’re talking about.
Jake Smith: Why wouldn’t I?! The picture has been painted pretty damn clear. You’re his greatest creation, and he was never going to allow you the benefit of freedom. He was going to let you eat out of the palm of his hands and THINK that you are going to get what you want, but you’ll never be allowed that grace… you’ll suffer. Even if you win.
(Jake glared as he shook his head, continuing to have his back turned.)
Jake Smith: So congratulations. This is what you wanted, right? Better enjoy it.
Caroline: It is too late to save yourself-
Jake Smith: AND IT’S TOO LATE TO SAVE YOU EITHER! SO WHAT THE FUCK DO I HAVE LEFT?! HUH?! I HAVE NOTHING! I have…
(Jake began to get lightheaded, as he stumbled toward a nearby wall, slamming his fist against the side of it.)
(Caroline stood there, mute and contrite, pondering the words Jake had spoken.)
Caroline: It truly is unfortunate that it has come to this but at least it is a means to an end. Freedom from you is all that crave at the present and long may you burn, Jake. Long may you burn.
(Despite the harshness of her words, Caroline’s brow was furrowed. There was a seed of doubt planted now, and that’s all Jake needed. He turned towards her but behind her… Belial appeared. His hand touched Caroline’s shoulder and Jake could swear he saw her tense up.)
Belial: You’ve had your fun. Time to return.
Jake Smith: Caroline… listen to me.
(Belial wagged his finger and shook his head.)
Belial: Tut. Tut.
(A sharp piece of metal bit into Jake’s cheeks and secured itself around his head. A metal gag had found itself around his mouth and Jake started fighting it. Caroline turned and glared at Belial.)
Caroline: Release that contraption from his face!
Belial: Now you must gain sympathy for the human. Tsk… It will leave, but not before you.
(Caroline paused, looking at Jake whose eyes widened as he stood, almost frozen by the turn of events. She bowed her head down, saying no more, as Belial put his hand on her shoulder, the two of them evaporating to thin dust.)
Jake Smith: F- FUCK!
(The gag released, as Jake dropped down to his knees, gasping and struggling to breathe. He glanced over, looking at Buford who had begun to recover, witnessing everything with a petrified look, a very similar look to Molly Waters, who could not bring herself to leave.)
Buford Brunt: Is… is it over…?
(Jake continued to breathe heavily as he fell over, but he murmured as he responded to Buford.)
Jake Smith: No… not by a long shot.
(Jake brought himself to stand up, as he stumbled out of the room, looking immediately to be in motion. Buford clutched his throat, still considerably hurt, as he tried his best to catch up to him. It’s the very last shot seen before Sunday Night Voltage began to fade.)
(Sunday Night Voltage returns to show a panaround shot of The Great Southern Bank Arena. As the crowd is shown in excitement, their mood is almost immediately soured as the sounds of ‘Until It Sleeps’ by Metallica begins to break through the speakers of the arena. An overwhelming negative reaction is heard as the camera goes over to reveal Damon Lazarus as he’s seen making his way out from the backstage area. Following to his left and right are his respective War Games teammates, Saori Aizen and Auburn Ware, bearing the same resentment and begrudging cooperation that they usually carry. As Damon glares at the ring, he begins to make his way down the ramp.)
Bella Braxton: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome… Damon Lazarus, Auburn Ware, and Saori Aizen… TEAM VOLTAGE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rich Russillo: It has certainly been an interesting weekend when it comes to War Games festivities. While Auburn Ware came out victorious on Dynasty against Dynasty’s BRAE and Showdown’s Damien Kutcher, Saori Aizen wasn’t so lucky, with her and Dynasty’s Kirk Redwood losing out to Showdown’s Pandora Paisley.
Thadd Blazevich: And big Damon might have something to say about that, bro. The Team Captain has the fullest intentions of showing that his team is not only on the same page, but that they’re surefire to win this match at Territorial Invasion. But the one thing that falls on is what’s going to happen inside this squared circle tonight as Team Voltage seems to have some thoughts before the main event.
Persephone: I’m still mad this senile man and his harem are genuinely our line of defense from the rest of the brands. Shit, Auburn might have a point, I might just have to start slitting my wrists too.
(Team Voltage begins to make their way into the ring as they all take microphones for themselves. ‘Until It Sleeps’ begins to come to a close as Damon slowly slithers toward the center of the ring, raising his microphone up to his mouth as he begins to speak.)
Damon Lazarus: I’ve frequented this brand long enough to know the inner machinations of how everything works. How the gears turn, how everyone operates, and most importantly, how capable I am of turning this shit on its head and focusing the center of attention on me. There is no denying that is exactly what has happened, and while everyone else squabbles around me, I stand here today as a Captain who *knows* without a shadow of a goddamn doubt that he is going to come out victorious at Territorial Invasion. But at the same time, while I could go on with the same soliloquies about being able to do it myself and having self-fulfilling ambitions, I’m not stupid. I know that going up against six other people is an endeavour that I cannot merely partake in on solely my own two feet. There needs to be two other people by my side who are just as hungry as I am, just as fierce, and just as capable, and the way that I see it…
(Damon glances backward, looking at both Auburn and Saori with a small smirk beginning to show on his face.)
Damon Lazarus: There are no two other people who know what goes on in my mind better than them.
(The crowd can’t help but boo this, Damon slowly starts to circle around the two of them as he continues.)
Damon Lazarus: I don’t imagine anyone else can see that though. What they expect to see is a completely dysfunctional team, incapable of working together because of past qualms that have hung above their head like an albatross. But I have taken that into account, if that was something that I believed I could not handle, would I have accepted such a burden on my shoulders? No… but I did, didn’t I? And now, here we are. They are with me not because they don’t have a choice, the truth is they have had a choice for the longest time now, they are with me because this is something that they have accepted to be true. They wish to reap the benefits of a plan gone right, and the opportunity in front of them was simply too much for them to be able to decline. Is that so wrong to believe, I don’t really think so…
(Damon stops in front of Saori and Auburn, leaning down as he looks at them.)
Damon Lazarus: So the question is… are you going to stand by my side? Or am I just whispering sweet nothings into your ear right now?
(Damon raises an eyebrow, as he first glances over at Saori, who raises her own microphone to respond to the question.)
Saori Aizen: You certainly have proved that you are quite the mastermind in your own right. What happened on Showdown was something that was not anticipated, and I am disappointed in myself for not just letting myself down, but letting this team down as well. It is a mistake that we cannot afford, and I’m not going to let it happen again. I am by your side to ensure that Team Voltage comes out victorious. I will not shame myself again.
(Damon smirks, nodding his head in agreement before turning over to Auburn.)
Auburn Ware: What? Do you expect me to bend the knee and be like “yEs MasTer” for you?
(He pondered it for a moment, before shrugging.)
Damon Lazarus: I was just asking a question.
Auburn Ware: You made a promise to me.
Damon Lazarus: That I did.
Auburn Ware: No bullshit. No compromises. And I agreed that if you stuck to that then I would play nice and fight for your team. As long as you stick to it, then I have no reason to say shit to you. I’ll fight.
Damon Lazarus: Good. That’s all I needed.
(Damon straightens himself back up as he turns around toward the hard camera.)
Damon Lazarus: See? No lies needed to be told there. And that goes for every single other team who thinks that they have a story to tell when it comes to our perception heading into a fight like this.
(Damon looks between Auburn and Saori, and neither makes a move to defy his words. A smirk crosses his face and Auburn raises her mic up again.)
Auburn Ware: I’m not going to act like Dynasty didn’t fill me up with a ton of confidence because it did. Everyone talks and talks and talks about how BRAE is the heart of Dynasty and should be the person to dethrone the other awful Drake, but BRAE couldn’t even defend his turf the other night. We… as in the three of us…
(Auburn motions at herself, Damon, and Saori.)
Auburn Ware: Made sure that Voltage walked away with the momentum. Do you know what that win meant to me? It meant everything. It let me know that while this situation between the three of us is far from good, the one thing we all want right now is to win. We want to win War Games. We want whatever spoils Captain Charisma is going to throw at us when we have our hands raised. And we’re off to a hell of a start.
Saori Aizen: Perhaps the start could have gone a bit better but I am not looking to dwell on what happened on Showdown. The desperation that oozes from Pandora Paisley will be what ends up destroying her come War Games. I have wondered for the longest time who my enemies are, perhaps they are beside me, perhaps they are across from me… I know as much now that my battle is right in front of me in the structure that encompasses the three of us at Territorial Invasion. This is a challenge, one that I will conquer as I have every other challenge.
(Saori’s eyes wandered around.)
Saori Aizen: If their pride means so much to them, then they will surpass my own, but I do not imagine that is something that will come to fruition… because I have learned that nobody has stronger pride than the three of us. And because of that, I fully expect this match to be Voltage’s.
(And even though she had to swallow her pride in order to do so, Auburn nodded her head in agreement.)
Auburn Ware: Yes. What SHE said.
(Unable to help herself, Saori rolled her eyes. Damon cleared his throat, for no other reason than just to remind them of his presence and Auburn sighed.)
Auburn Ware: I won’t speak for Damon or Saori, as they both have their own reasons for wanting this win, but for me… I said it to BRAE the other night in my video. I have nothing to lose. A win of this magnitude does wonders for me and honestly… I… I was told that I have to prove myself.
(Auburn shoots a glare at Damon but there’s no real venom behind it.)
Auburn Ware: That’s all the motivation I need.
Damon Lazarus: And prove yourself you will. I suppose… All of us have something to prove in this match, don’t we? Something that the others do not see, something that is going to have to be delivered to them by force. It will not come in these preview matches that garner little to no merit… It will happen in two weeks.
(Damon turns as he glares at the hard camera.)
Damon Lazarus: Two weeks… and we will finally be absolved.
(He drops his microphone down to the ground as ‘Until It Sleeps’ begins to play through the speakers. He turns around and begins to make his way out of the ring, as Auburn and Saori, looking as confident as ever after a surprisingly bright conversation, follow suit. Team Voltage begins to take their leave as it’s the very last shot seen before Sunday Night Voltage begins to fade.)
(A commercial is shown for dog collars.)
(The camera returns to ringside.)
Bella Braxton: Ladies and gentlemen… The following contest is scheduled for ONE FALL!!!
Crowd: ONE FALL!!!
(‘Once Then We’ll Be Free’ by Wisp hits, and while this is met with a mostly positive reception, it is slightly mixed due to everything that has transpired with Hans Grayson. Still, Jay Jerry Johnson walks out, and it is with nothing but focus on his face in spite of the back and forth he had earlier. Jay is ready for this match against the Hardcore Champion, wasting no time beginning to walk down the ramp.)
Bella Braxton: Introducing first!… From Chicago, Illinois… weighing in at 215 pounds… JAAAAYYYYYY JERRRYYYYYY JJJOOOOOOOOHHHHHHNNNNNSSOOOOONNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rich Russillo: Jay Jerry Johnson tonight made the claim that he’d do what Hans Grayson at Shock Value could not, and defeat Kai Rabeaux. I think Jay has the talent to do so, but I can’t make any guarantees. Just look at the run Kai has been on.
Thadd Blazevich: You’re right. This match could really go either way, which is exactly what makes this awesome! There’s no telling what’ll happen.
Persephone: Well I can tell you what *won’t* happen. A good match.
(‘The Promised Consort’ by Shoi Miyazawa follows, and what follows is nothing but boos, as loud as possible. Kai Rabeaux begins to walk out wearing his Hardcore Championship, not showing any concern. He isn’t bothered following his appearance earlier in the night, and as he begins walking towards the ring, he appears confident, not even bothering to give Jay Jerry Johnson too much attention until he reaches ringside.)
Bella Braxton: And his opponent!… From New York City, New York… weighing in at 230 pounds… HE IS THE HARDCORE CHAMPION, KAAAAIIIIIIIIIII RRRAAABBBEEEAAAUUUUXXXXX!!!!!!!!
Rich Russillo: The self-proclaimed “Overlord of the Next Generation” is here, after an appearance earlier in the night that’s bound to even further aggravate his Territorial Invasion challenger.
Thadd Blazevich: Yeah dude, but he can’t focus on Miku Sakai right now. I don’t even know why bro would get involved there, ‘cause he’s gonna need to give this match all his focus.
Persephone: Because he’s an idiot that does stuff like this all the time until it catches up to him? Seems pretty obvious to me.
(Ding! Ding! Ding!)
Rich Russillo: THIS MATCH IS UNDERWAY, AND JAY IMMEDIATELY RUSHES KAI RABEAUX, GRABBING KAI AS HE RAMS HIM BACK FIRST INTO THE TURNBUCKLES!
Thadd Blazevich: JAY LIFTS KAI’S LEG UP– AND HE DELIVERS A DRAGON SCREW! KAI LANDS ON HIS BACK AWAY FROM THE CORNER, AND DUDE, TRIPLE J IS TURNING KAI INTO AN ANKLE LOCK!
Persephone: BUT KAI TURNS HIMSELF BACK ONTO HIS BACK, BEFORE KICKING JAY AWAY! Come on, don’t start wasting my time!
Rich Russillo: Kai rushes back to his feet– BUT JAY RUSHES AT HIM ONCE AGAIN, SENDING HIM OVER THE TOP ROLE WITH A CLOTHESLINE! Jay Jerry Johnson has been on fire since the bell rang! I can’t recall many times where Jay has come out swinging like this, but if this is what he’s bringing, I can see why he chose not to engage Hans earlier! Kai hit the barricade hard there and already Jay Jerry Johnson is off running the ropes, ALLOWING HIM TO LAND A SUICIDE DIVE, ONCE AGAIN SENDING KAI INTO THE BARRICADE! Kai drops down to a knee, and Jay pulls him back up before connecting with a knife edge chop, turning Kai around as I don’t think he expected such an aggressive fight from Jay himself!
Thadd Blazevich: Jay pulls Kai into a knee to the midsection, before grabbing Kai and sending him face first into the ring post! Kai stumbles off, but Jay is right on his tail and he’s not letting him go anywhere! Bro grabs Kai and drags him back to the apron, slamming his face into it before lifting Kai up onto it and sending him back into the ring! Triple J starts to follow, climbing back onto the apron before stepping back through the ropes–
Persephone: SHRINE!!!
Rich Russillo: OH, WOW!!! KAI RABEAUX WITH A SURGE OF ENERGY, FLYING AT JAY WITH THE BICYCLE KNEE STRIKE BEFORE HE COULD FULLY RETURN TO THE RING!!!
Thadd Blazevich: TRIPLE J JUST FELL BACK THROUGH THE ROPES, DROPPING OFF THE APRON AND ONTO THE RINGSIDE FLOOR! Kai is hurting, but bro looks pissed more than anything else! He storms his way out to ringside, before kicking the steel steps out, knocking the top half off before quickly making his way over towards Triple J! I don’t like the look of this, bros! If I had to guess, I’d say he has some real bad intentions right about now!
Rich Russillo: Kai drags Jay in before lifting him onto his shoulders, AND HE TURNS BEFORE MAKING HIS WAY OVER TOWARDS THE STEPS– AND POWERBOMBING JAY ONTO THE BOTTOM HALF OF THE STEPS!! JAY JERRY JOHNSON WAS JUST POWERBOMBED ONTO PURE STEEL, AND JUST LIKE THAT THE HARDCORE CHAMPION HAS TURNED THIS ONE AROUND IN BRUTAL FASHION, JUST AS YOU’D EXPECT FROM KAI RABEAUX AT THIS POINT! Jay Jerry Johnson writhes in pain, and this has been one seriously violent way to start off this main event! I don’t think anyone could’ve expected this!
Thadd Blazevich: And remember dudes, this is Hardcore Champ versus the number one contender for the EAW title! This is a real big match going on right now, so maybe we shouldn’t be surprised they’re coming out swinging! Kai sends Jay back into the ring and follows behind– AND BEFORE TRIPLE J COULD EVEN PROCESS ANY OF THE PAIN FINDING HIM, BRO IS DRAGGED BACK UP TO HIS FEET! KAI HOOKS THE ARMS, BEFORE CONNECTING WITH A SNAP DRAGON SUPLEX!!! KAI KEEPS THE BRIDGE FOR THE COVER!!!
OOOOONNNNNEEEEE!!!
TTTTTTWWWWOOOOO!!!!
TTTTT–
Thadd Blazevich: JAY IS OUTTA THAT ONE! That was a pretty close call for the early stages, though. There’s a chance we might not be going long.
Persephone: Wow. That’s actually music to my ears.
Rich Russillo: Kai isn’t even waiting for Jay to get up himself. He drags Jay up to his knees, lifting his head up so that he can get him in perfect position! Kai now running the ropes, AS HE GOES FOR THE BLADE OF BABYLON!!!!!
Thadd Blazevich: NO! JAY IS ABLE TO MOVE, QUICKLY DUCKING OUT OF THE WAY BEFORE PULLING KAI DOWN INTO A SUNSET FLIP PIN BEFORE KAI COULD GO ALL THE WAY DOWN!
OOOONNNNEEEEE!!!!
TTTTTTWWWWOOOOOOO!!
Rich Russillo: BUT KAI RABEAUX IS OUT OF THAT ONE– AS HE ROLLS BACK TO HIS FEET AND LANDS A PENALTY KICK TO JAY JERRY JOHNSON!!! That was a good move for Jay avoiding the finishing blow, but Kai was able to get the upper hand regardless, and now he pretty much has the freedom to do what we know he loves to do, and completely toy with his opponent.
Thadd Blazevich: You’re not wrong there, bro. Kai just drags Jay up to a seated position, BEFORE GETTING TO A KNEE AND JUST DRIVING ELBOWS INTO HIS NECK! THOSE ARE SOME NASTY ELBOWS BY THE CHAMP, WHO IS JUST STAYING ON TOP OF TRIPLE J, LIKE IT’S SOME SORT OF PUNISHMENT FOR WHAT HAPPENED AT THE START!
Persephone: Well that’s his fault. If he stopped wasting his time and started out with the big moves, this wouldn’t have happened.
Rich Russillo: Well Jay DID go for the submission early, it just didn’t go to plan and he had to quickly adjust. Kai clearly knows what he’s doing, preventing Jay from having an easy night even as he prepares to challenge the World Champion. Kai drags Jay up to his feet, AND HE JUST USES ALL HIS POWER TO SEND JAY INTO THE CORNER, CAUSING HIM TO HIT THE TURNBUCKLES HARD!
Thadd Blazevich: Bro makes his way into the corner, AND NOW HE REALLY RETURNS THE FAVOR FOR EARLIER, JUST KICKING JAY RIGHT IN THE THIGH! Jay grabs at his leg, BUT KAI JUST LANDS A RIGHT HAND!
Persephone: Kai takes a step back, and now for some reason the Baby Killer’s genuinely taunting the crowd, pointing at Jay and talking some trash instead of– I don’t know, finishing the match!?
Rich Russillo: Kai is clearly looking to make a statement against the number one contender, WHO HE JUST KICKS IN THE MIDSECTION, CAUSING JAY TO DROP TO A KNEE! Kai’s been all over Jay since landing Shrine, and it’s moves like those that make all the difference!
Thadd Blazevich: Kai drags Jay out of the corner, AND HE LIFTS JAY UP FOR THE VERTICAL SUPLEX– BUT JAY SLIPS OUT OF IT AND LANDS ON HIS FEET! Jay looks for the leg sweeping kick from behind but Kai wisely avoided that– BUT JAY CATCHES HIM WITH THE SWEEP FROM THE FRONT THIS TIME! KAI IS DROPPED, AND JAY FOLLOWS THAT UP WITH A DOUBLE FOOT STOMP TO THE BACK! Jay grabs onto the top rope after this, holding his midsection as Kai rolls towards the ropes, trying to push himself back up.
Persephone: Jay calls for Kai to get up– AND KAI SWINGS AT HIM OUT OF DESPERATION, BUT JAY DUCKS UNDER! Kai turns and is met with a back elbow, which Jay follows up with a right hook. Kai is dazed, AND JAY CONNECTS WITH THE LARIAT!
Rich Russillo: Jay connects with the Knockout Artist, and I think Kai Rabeaux may have given Jay his ticket back into this match! Kai uses the ropes to pull himself back to his feet, AND JAY GOES IN– BUT KAI GOES FOR A SUPERKICK!
Thadd Blazevich: JAY WAS PREPPED FOR THAT ONE, BRO! HE CATCHES THE LEG, AND HE JUST SHAKES HIS HEAD! I THINK JAY IS ABOUT TO GO BACK TO THE WELL, TARGETING THE LEG AGAIN AS HE AIMS TO PULL KAI AWAY FROM THE ROPES FOR A DRAGON SCREW!!!
Persephone: Kai isn’t letting go of the ropes, though! He’s holding onto them desperately, forcing the referee to begin a count that hopefully Jay doesn’t abide by so that he gets disqualified!
Referee: (off-mic) ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR! FIVE-
Rich Russillo: Jay lets go of Kai, shaking his head as Kai slowly steps forwards… BEFORE RUNNING AT JAY! KAI SWUNG AT JAY, BUT JAY DUCKED UNDER IT BEFORE RUNNING THE ROPES! JAY GOES IN FOR A– WAIT NO! JAY HAD SOMETHING IN MIND, BUT KAI JUST CAUGHT HIM WITH A NASTY URANAGE BACKBREAKER! That was a good one by Kai, and he quickly drags Kai back up before getting him in a front facelock, ALLOWING HIM TO LAND A VERTICAL SUPLEX, BEFORE HE QUICKLY ROLLS OVER JAY FOR THE COVER!
OOOOONNNNNEEEEE!!!!
TTTTTTWWWOOOOOO!!!!!
TTTT–
Rich Russillo: BUT JAY GETS THE SHOULDER UP!
Thadd Blazevich: Triple J is staying in this one, bros! Kai just stares at Jay for a moment, before pushing himself back to his feet as bro seems more than content with dishing out more damage! Kai drags Jay back up, AND HE ONCE AGAIN SENDS JAY BACK FIRST INTO THE TURNBUCKLES! Jay hangs onto the top rope, struggling to keep his footing after all that damage at once, BUT KAI ISN’T LOOKING TO GIVE BRO ANY TIME TO RECOVER! HE RUNS IN, CHARGING AT TRIPLE J FOR THE HOLLOW POINT!!
Persephone: AND HE DOESN’T GET IT!!!
Rich Russillo: JAY WAS JUST BARELY ABLE TO DIVE OUT OF THE WAY, CLUTCHING ONTO THE ROPES TO KEEP HIMSELF UP! Kai bounces off of the turnbuckles and out of the corner, AND JAY GRABS HIM BY THE HEAD, JUMPING AND CONNECTING WITH THE PRETTY VISITOR!!! PRETTY VISITOR CONNECTS, AND JAY GOES IN FOR THE COVER TO PUT DOWN THE HARDCORE CHAMPION!!!!
OOOOOONNNNNEEEEEEE!!!!
TTTTTWWWWOOOOOOO!!!!
TTTHHHHRRRR–
Thadd Blazevich: AND THIS TIME BROS, KAI IS THE ONE THAT’S ABLE TO GET THE SHOULDER UP!!! Unfortunately for my dude Triple J, this one isn’t over yet!
Rich Russillo: Jay rolls off of Kai, shaking his head as he gets to all fours and starts to push himself. He starts to make his way back up, and Jay is going to have to find a way to keep Kai down. You have to give Kai credit. He’s a very tough competitor in his own right, and ironically, he actually defeated Hans Grayson in Hans’ first marquee match back. That alone should tell you how much of a threat he is.
Thadd Blazevich: Jay has managed to return to his feet, and now he calls for Kai to start getting back up! Kai is totally trying– BUT JAY KICKS HIS ARM OUT JUST AS HE GOT TO ALL FOURS! Kai holds his arm as he instinctively shoots up to his knees, AND JAY TURNS AND LANDS A SHOOT KICK TO THE CHEST! Kai is reeling from that one, BUT TRIPLE J SHOVES HIM BACK UP AND LANDS ANOTHER ONE! ANOTHER ONE! ANOTHER! TRIPLE J IS JUST CAVING KAI’S CHEST IN WITH THESE SHOOT KICKS– AND NOW HE FINALLY LANDS A ROUNDHOUSE KICK, FLOORING KAI!! Dude, Jay was just cooking Kai right there, and now Kai just started rolling out to the apron after trying and failing to push himself back up.
Persephone: Kai is out on the apron. Still wish this match was over, but it’s not, so.
Rich Russillo: Jay starts to make his way out to the apron. He drags Kai up, AND IMMEDIATELY KNEES HIM IN THE MIDSECTION! Kai drops down to his knees, and this allows Jay to begin driving elbows onto the back of his head! Jay is really bringing the hard hitting attacks here tonight, as he drags Kai up, AND DELIVERS A EUROPEAN UPPERCUT! Kai stumbles and is clearly dazed, even doubling over as he can barely even stand after getting dropped with Pretty Visitor! Jay takes a few steps back, AND NOW HE RUSHES IN FOR–
Thadd Blazevich: NO!!! BROS, KAI JUST CAUGHT JAY WITH A BACK BODY DROP, THROWING TRIPLE J OVER HIS HEAD!! JAY JUST LANDED BACK FIRST ONTO THE APRON, AND DUDE THAT WAS THE WORST LANDING POSSIBLE!!! Jay falls out to ringside, while Kai just collapses on the apron! This match has been a total mess, and I mean that in the best way possible! These two have just been throwing bombs at each other, and this right here is what a main event looks like!
Persephone: Is it? A match between Kai Rabeaux and Jay Jerry Johnson under normal rules doesn’t really fit my idea of a main event, but whatever. Kai finally dropped off the apron and dragged Jay up, AND HE THROWS JAY OVER THE BARRICADE INTO THE TIMEKEEPER’S AREA! Jay was just completely wiped out. Kai stumbles back to the apron, I guess using the time to recover while Jay is out. Can the referee just count them both out while they’re out there wasting time? That’d be great.
Rich Russillo: Well I don’t think that’s going to happen. Kai is smart, and he wisely rolled back into the ring and rolled back out, restarting the count. Jay is trying to drag himself out of the timekeeper’s area, BUT KAI HOOKS HIM, LIFTING HIM UP BEFORE– DELIVERING A SUPLEX RIGHT ONTO OUR TABLE!!! THE TABLE DIDN’T BREAK, BUT THAT STILL HAD TO BE ONE TERRIBLE LANDING FOR JAY JERRY JOHNSON! Jay rolls off the table in pain, as Kai Rabeaux drags himself back up. Kai grabs Jay before sending him back into the ring, and you have to imagine he’s getting ready to put this one away!
Thadd Blazevich: It’s looking that way, bro! Jay Jerry Johnson is slowly finding the wherewithal to stand, but Triple J getting up seems to be exactly what Kai wants! Triple J is back on his feet, AND NOW KAI SPRINGBOARDS OFF THE MIDDLE ROPE FOR THE CRYSTAL KINGDOM CUTTER– BUT TRIPLE J WAS READY!!! KAI TRIED TO CATCH JAY WITH THE CUTTER, BUT JAY CAUGHT ‘EM!! JAY NOW LOOKING FOR THE GERMAN SUPLEX–
Persephone: BUT JAY CAN’T DO IT BECAUSE OF ALL THE DAMAGE TO THE BACK!! He’s pretty much useless right now, he can’t do the move!
Rich Russillo: Kai breaks free of the waistlock, AND HE SWINGS AT JAY WITH A RIGHT, BUT JAY IS ABLE TO DUCK UNDER BEFORE CONNECTING WITH A ROUNDHOUSE KICK!! Kai drops down to a knee, and this isn’t going to be easy for Jay when he’s struggling to lift his opponent, who as we know is larger than him. Jay Jerry Johnson pulls Kai in, AND NOW HE STEPS OFF THE MIDDLE ROPE BEFORE GOING FOR A TORNADO DDT–
Thadd Blazevich: BUT HE DOESN’T GET IT!!! TRIPLE J MADE A SMART MOVE TRYING TO ADAPT, BUT IT LOOKS LIKE THAT MOVE WAS A LIL TOO EASY FOR KAI TO COUNTER AS HE MANAGES TO SHOVE JAY OFF OF HIM! Jay rolls backwards and back to his feet, and now Kai goes for the Irish whip– but Jay turns it around and sends Kai into the turnbuckles!
Persephone: Jay goes running in– BUT KAI GETS OUT OF THE WAY!
Rich Russillo: AND NOW THERE’S THE HOLLOW POINT, AS SOON AS JAY TURNED AROUND!!! KAI NEEDED SOMETHING BIG THERE AND HE GOT IT, AS JAY WAS JUST CAUGHT WITH THE HOLLOW POINT OUT OF NOWHERE!! JAY FALLS OUT OF THE CORNER, AND KAI QUICKLY DROPS IN FOR THE COVER!!!
OOOOONNNNEE!!!!
TTTTWWOOOOOO!!!
TTTHHHHRRREEEE–
Thadd Blazevich: AND TRIPLE J GETS THE SHOULDER UP!!! Kai couldn’t build as much speed as he usually does for that move, so that might’ve contributed to that kickout. Still, Jay isn’t giving up tonight and that means Kai is gonna have to keep trying to find a way to take him down. This has been a real awesome main event between these two, and at this point I think anyone could take it. All it takes is one major move, and with how well scouted these two seem to be for each other, there’s no telling what move that’ll be!
Rich Russillo: Actually, I think I have a decent idea of what! Kai is dragging Jay back up, and it looks like he just told him that this is over! Kai drags Jay onto his shoulders, AND HE’S SETTING UP FOR THE KINGSTONE PILEDRIVER!!!!
Thadd Blazevich: BUT DUDE– LOOK!!! JAY ROTATES AND MANAGES TO PULL HIMSELF DOWN TO HIS FEET, WHILE HOLDING ONTO KAI!! JAY REVERSES IT– AND HE USES THE OPPORTUNITY TO CONNECT WITH A TOMBSTONE SHOULDER BREAKER!!! KAI GOES DOWN AND HOLDS HIS SHOULDER, AND TRIPLE J JUST FALLS TO THE MAT AFTER THAT ONE!!
Persephone: It is so annoying that these two are still pulling off moves like that.
Rich Russillo: Kai starts getting to a knee, still holding his shoulder in pain while Jay uses the ropes to start trying to get up. Kai is the first to get to his feet thanks to Jay still feeling the effects of the Hollow Point, AND NOW KAI RUNS IN LOOKING FOR A CLOTHESLINE– BUT JAY DUCKS UNDER, CAUSING KAI TO COLLIDE WITH THE ROPES! KAI IS SENT REBOUNDING BACKWARDS– AND THIS ALLOWS JAY TO FINALLY CONNECT WITH THE GERMAN SUPLEX!! BIG MOVE BY JAY AS KAI IS DUMPED ON HIS HEAD, AND JAY TAKES ADVANTAGE OF THE OPPORTUNITY PRESENTED AS KAI INADVERTENTLY STUMBLES TO HIS FEET!
Thadd Blazevich: JAY GRABS KAI, LOOKING TO PULL HIM UP FOR HEAVEN’S FEEL WITH WHATEVER STRENGTH HE HAS IN HIM!!
Persephone: BUT KAI SUNSET FLIPS OVER JAY, PULLING HIM DOWN INTO A PIN!!
OOOONNNNNEEEE!!!
TTTTTTWWWWOOOO!!!!
Rich Russillo: JAY KICKS OUT AND BOTH MEN ROLL BACK TO THEIR FEET–
Thadd Blazevich: AND KAI PRETTY MUCH TAKES JAY’S HEAD OFF WITH REDLINED!!!!!
Rich Russillo: WOW!!! KAI RABEAUX POURED EVERYTHING HE HAD INTO THAT LARIAT, AND BOTH MEN ARE DOWN!!! JAY WAS FLOORED BY THAT ONE, AND IF THAT DOESN’T KEEP HIM DOWN I DON’T KNOW WHAT WILL!!
Thadd Blazevich: Kai is still reeling himself, but he’s making moves! KAI SLOWLY IS ABLE TO TURN HIMSELF OVER, BEFORE GETTING THE ARM OVER TRIPLE J FOR THE COVER!! THIS ONE MIGHT ACTUALLY BE IT, BROS!!!
OOOONNNNEEEEEE!!!!
TTTTTTWWWWOOOOOOO!!!!
TTTTHHHRREEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!
Thadd Blazevich: NO WAY!!!! EVEN AFTER THAT, JAY WAS ABLE TO JUST BARELY GET THE SHOULDER UP!!!! Dude, how are they still going!? This is unreal, and the crowd pretty much exploded after that one!
Persephone: Kai looks frustrated, and I don’t blame him. I’m mad too, because for some reason this match won’t end. Kai drags himself to the ropes and starts pulling himself up, and at this point I have no clue what it’s going to take. Jay and Kai both for some reason are treating this match as if there’s something on the line, but there’s not! Just go home!
Rich Russillo: This is about pride, Persephone. A win over the other would look good for either one of them ahead of their title matches at Territorial Invasion, and they know that.
Thadd Blazevich: Kai starts to slowly drag Jay back up, JUST SO HE CAN HIT HIM WITH A PUNCH TO THE FACE, DROPPING HIM BACK DOWN TO HIS KNEES! Kai isn’t happy, and now it looks like bro’s ready to just pick Jay apart. Kai walks behind Jay, kicking him in the back so he drops back down to the mat! Kai walks back in, AND HE FOLLOWS IT UP WITH A KNEE DROP TO THE BACK! Jay screams in pain, and now we’re really starting to see that nasty side of Kai! The same side that made bro the Hardcore Champ for this long.
Rich Russillo: Kai drags Jay up before lifting him onto his shoulders, AND NOW THERE’S THE HIGH ANGLE POWERBOMB!!!! JAY JUST HIT THE MAT HARD, AND KAI GOES IN FOR ANOTHER COVER!!!
OOOOOONNNNEEEE!!!
TTTWWWOOOOOOOOO!!!!
TTTTHHHRREEEEEEEEEEE!!!!
Rich Russillo: BUT JAY STILL WON’T STAY DOWN!!!! JAY JERRY JOHNSON WAS ABLE TO GET THE SHOULDER UP, AND NOW THIS HAS TO BE GETTING FRUSTRATING FOR KAI! Kai quickly drags Jay up, powering him up onto the top rope as it looks like he may be looking to take a slightly riskier approach!
Thadd Blazevich: Kai punches bro in the face, keeping Jay in place as he climbs up to the middle rope! Kai Rabeaux is looking for a superplex dude, and if this connects, it might not matter just how resilient Jay is. I don’t think his back can handle something like that right now, and Kai knows it. I’ll give bro credit. Even now he’s playing it smart, focusing his offense on moves bound to take Jay down! Kai has Jay in position, AND HE STARTS TO LIFT HIM FOR THE SUPERPLEX!!!
Persephone: UGH, BUT JAY SLIPS DOWN KAI’S BACK, LANDING ON HIS FEET AND GRABBING ONTO KAI’S LEG BEFORE PULLING IT OUT FROM UNDER HIM!!!!
Rich Russillo: KAI STUMBLES OUT OF THE CORNER– ALLOWING JAY TO DROP DOWN AND SWEEP THE LEG WITH HIS ARMS, ALLOWING HIM TO INSTANTLY PULL KAI DOWN INTO A GROUNDED ANKLE LOCK!!
Thadd Blazevich: UH OH, KAI IS IN TROUBLE!!! JAY WORKED ON THE LEG EARLIER IN THE MATCH, AND WHILE KAI WAS ABLE TO AVOID SOME SERIOUS DAMAGE BEFORE, I CAN’T IMAGINE THAT ANKLE LOCK FEELS ANY GOOD!
Persephone: Jay has the grapevine in, but Kai still trying to crawl to the ropes! Just tap out, stop wasting my time!
Rich Russillo: I think he’s debating on doing exactly that, BUT KAI IS STUBBORN, AND HE DOESN’T SEEM WILLING TO DO THAT SO EASILY! KAI IS THE LARGER MAN AND IS USING THAT TO HIS ADVANTAGE, BUT IS HE GONNA BE ABLE TO MAKE IT!?!? Jay isn’t letting up on the ankle lock! He wants Kai to tap out, and he’s gonna keep that submission locked in until he does! This is exactly the kind of thing that makes Jay so dangerous! He is a technical expert, one that can hang with the very best of them!
Thadd Blazevich: Kai is close to those ropes though! He’s trying as hard as he can to make it to the ropes– BUT JAY WRENCHES ON THE ANKLE LOCK EVEN HARDER, PUTTING KAI IN EVEN MORE PAIN! DUDE, KAI JUST YELLED OUT IN PAIN, BUT HE’S SO CLOSE TO THE ROPES! HE JUST HAS TO MAKE IT A LIL CLOSER AND HE’S FREE, BUT IS HE EVEN GONNA BE ABLE TO WHILE TRAPPED IN THAT ANKLE LOCK!? HE IS STILL PULLING HIMSELF CLOSER, BUT HE’S RAISING HIS HAND! HE’S… HE’S GONNA DO IT!
Persephone: AND “IT” UNFORTUNATELY MEANS SURVIVE THE SUBMISSION INSTEAD OF TAPPING OUT, BECAUSE KAI SOMEHOW MANAGED TO GET HIS HAND ON THE BOTTOM ROPE!
Rich Russillo: Kai managed to get the rope break, and now once again Jay only has until the count of five to let go!
Referee: (off-mic) ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR! FIVE-
Rich Russillo: Jay Jerry Johnson releases the submission, meanwhile Kai starts using the ropes to try pulling himself up. Jay gave himself some good time to at least attempt recovery there, and thanks to that he’s able to push himself up on his own. Jay now making his way over towards Kai–
Thadd Blazevich: BUT KAI LANDS A SUPERKICK RIGHT TO THE JAW OF JAY!! Jay goes down, but Kai nearly does too! Kai dropped down to both knees thanks to the damage in his leg, meanwhile the referee is checking on Jay after that gnarly superkick. Kai now taking the time to try pulling himself up, getting both hands on the ropes to do so– BUT WAIT, HOLD ON–
*CRACK!*
Thadd Blazevich: MIKU SAKAI JUST HIT KAI IN THE FACE WITH THE HARDCORE CHAMPIONSHIP!!!!
Persephone: YES!!
Rich Russillo: MIKU SAKAI IS HERE, AND WE SHOULD’VE KNOWN THIS WOULD BE THE CASE AFTER WHAT KAI DID EARLIER! MIKU JUST BASHED THE HARDCORE TITLE IN KAI’S FACE WHILE THE REFEREE WAS DISTRACTED!
Thadd Blazevich: Miku Sakai quickly drops down behind the apron to obscure herself from the ref’s vision, and now Jay gets back up, seeing Kai all messed up!
Rich Russillo: Jay doesn’t know what happened, but I don’t think he cares! He drags Kai Rabeaux up, AND HE USES EVERYTHING HE HAS LEFT IN HIM TO PULL KAI UP ONTO HIS SHOULDERS, BEFORE PLANTING HIM WITH HEAVEN’S FEEL!!!
Thadd Blazevich: KAI WAS JUST DROPPED ON HIS HEAD, AND NOW JAY HOOKS THE LEGS FOR THE COVER!!!
OOOONNNNNNEEEEEEE!!!!
TTTTWWWWWOOOOOOO!!!!
TTTTTHHHHRRREEEEEEEEEE!!!!
(Ding! Ding! Ding!)
Bella Braxton: Ladies and gentlemen, here is your winner… JAAAAYYYYYYYYY JJEEEERRRRYYYYYYY JJOOOOOHHHHHNNNNSSSOOONNNN!!!!!!
(‘Once Then We’ll Be Free’ begins to play once more, and Jay rolls off of Kai. Jay sits up, but as he turns, he sees Miku Sakai laughing, tossing Kai’s Championship aside as she hops over the barricade. Jay turns after this, seeing the replay which showed Miku smashing the Championship into Kai’s face. This causes Jay to shake his head, but he just shrugs as he gets back to his feet, allowing his hand to be raised anyway.)
Rich Russillo: Jay Jerry Johnson gets a huge victory over the Hardcore Champion, but I reckon that’s not how he wanted to get the job done! Miku Sakai interfered there, getting revenge after earlier!
Thadd Blazevich: Well we know she has beef with Kai. I asked at the start of this why Kai would even show his face there. Now look! Needless to say, Miku got some payback, and now Triple J got some killer momentum before he faces Hans.
Persephone: Yeah yeah, whatever. I’m just glad Miku did the first good thing of her career by ending this match.
(Jay rolls out of the ring, going and grabbing a microphone from the timekeeper’s area as his entrance music fades out.)
(Jay makes his way back towards the ring after this, leaning against the ring post as he speaks.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: Listen, that was not what I wanted. I did not walk to the ring to have Miku Sakai get herself involved in my business. Even if it may be deserved for a man like Kai, Miku’s issues with Kai Rabeaux are for them to handle on their own time. I was here for one thing and that was to defeat Kai… and regardless of it not happening how I pictured, I did exactly that. I did what Hans Grayson, the man holding the title I’m after, could not.
(This receives a mixed reception.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: Hans I know you have not left the building, so know this. I am in no mood for broken promises.
(Jay turns towards the stage, and before long, ‘The Leaving Song Pt. II’ by AFI hits. This gets an extremely loud reaction as the fans cheer, and Jay slowly pulls himself closer towards the bottom of the ramp, watching as Hans Grayson makes his way out, already holding a microphone and carrying his Championship on his shoulder. Hans stops at the top of the ramp, just staring at Jay. A tense staredown lasts some time as Hans’ music fades, but eventually, the Champion speaks.)
Hans Grayson: You’re right. You defeated young Kai, after Miku handed the victory to you on a silver platter. Congratulations, but treating that as something to brag about doesn’t fill me with much confidence when you say you’re not going down the same road Raven did.
(The fans cheer, and Jay just shakes his head.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: I told you, I’m not her. I didn’t know Miku was going to get involved. I wasn’t even aware of her involvement until after the match, but the facts didn’t change because of that involvement, did they?
Hans Grayson: So what’s your point?
Jay Jerry Johnson: That I’m taking this seriously, and I’m not going to keep wasting the opportunities that are presented to me. Kai Rabeaux was just the beginning. First I defeated the man that you could not. A man that happens to hold one of Voltage’s Championships. Next, I defeat the EAW World Champion himself.
Hans Grayson: It isn’t that simple, Jay. I lost at Shock Value, but in the months since then I had to work, recover and prepare myself to stand where I do now. I had to climb to this Championship, and the battle only got harder once I won this. You can be in better shape than ever before, and I won’t ignore it. You had a good win tonight, but a good win won’t change my mind, and it definitely won’t take this from me.
(Hans pats the Championship on his shoulder to a loud reaction, but Jay isn’t phased by this, maintaining his focus.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: I know, which is why changing your mind wasn’t your intention. Threatening you wasn’t, either. It’s the truth. This is it, Hans. This is where I become Champion. You won’t make me fall. Nobody will. Not until I have that title.
(Hans can see how serious Jay is about this, but Hans doesn’t back down either. He remains where he is, leaving the two men staring at each other, ready for what’s to come at Territorial Invasion.)
Hans Grayson: Then live up to your words, Jay. Bring everything you have, because I’ll be doing the same.
(Hans just raises his Championship in the air, not breaking the staredown between the two men. Jay looks at the World Championship being raised, while the crowd is loud for the two men. With this final shot, Voltage begins to fade to black.)
(EAW logo buzzes.)
