The AWF Presents: Fired Up! - Live from Paradise, NV!
Sept 20, 2020 21:19:47 GMT -5
Mongo the Destroyer, Dave D-Flipz, and 7 more like this
Post by Seth Dillinger on Sept 20, 2020 21:19:47 GMT -5
AWF FIRED UP
LIVE FROM THE MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA
PARADISE, NEVADA
SOCIALLY-DISTANCED CAPACITY: 1000 FANS
Taylor: Here we go! Ladies and gentlemen... do you believe in magic? Because tonight, ANYTHING can happen!
Romano: It's not magic, Taylor. It's all about adaptability.
Taylor: WELCOME to Fired Up 2020!
Romano: 32 competitors are going to enter this tournament... but only one will walk out as the champion!
Taylor: It could be anyone! We even have a mystery competitor in this tournament. Who is it? Only time will tell!
Romano: Some combatants are already making tentative plans... here, take a look at this encounter in the parking lot earlier!
Earlier this afternoon (if the handy caption is to be believed) we are in the parking lot of MGM Grand Garden Arena as Bloodied Fox is getting out of his rental car. He pops the trunk and bends over to retrieve his bag, when...
????: Well, that is one hell of a position to walk in on you in...
Fox immediately springs back, entering a ready stance, snarl on his face as he recognises the voice. The camera turns enough to let us in on the identity: Seth Dillinger. Seth takes a step back at Fox's response, hands up.
Seth: Woah, easy there Foxy! Parley! I'm here to talk, not fight.
Fox: Why the fuck should I listen to anything you have to say?
Seth: Because while you may be frustratingly stubborn, you aren't stupid. Even if you don't believe it, you know that I feel I have your best interests at heart, which means you also know I wouldn't risk you going Conor McGregor on me here if there wasn't something in it for both of us.
Fox's eyes narrow, but his body language relaxes a little.
Fox: Talk, and try really hard not to piss me off.
Seth grins.
Seth: Knew you'd see sense. Now, you and I both know that fate has a wicked sense of humour, so there's a very real possibility that tonight's random draw is going to put us together. After all, we're all that's left of LGBTKO, what with Bobby going back into retirement not long after he stabbed us both in the back, and Ryan seemingly following him after Night of Champions. Hell, even Brendan's gone off to Japan. How is he, by the way?
Fox: He's fine, not that it's any of your fucking business. Get to the point.
Seth: Still so touchy! My point is this: you and I make one hell of a team. We were XHF Tag Team champions, after all.
Fox: You and I never teamed in a Tag Title match
Seth waves a hand dismissively
Seth: Now now, it was a group effort! I won the titles, you defended them, Ryan lost them. Tonight we could well be a team again, and no-one will be able to stand in our way if that happens, provided we can stay on the same page.
Fox: So you're asking... what, that I promise not to kill you until we get to the final?
Seth: I would have phrased it asking you to temporarily set aside your fairly unjustified anger at me for one night, help me beat four other teams, and then may the best man win, but your wording works in a pinch. What do you say, partner?
Seth holds out his hand for a shake. Fox looks at it, then glowers at Seth.
Fox: Fine, you have my word I won't kill you until it's one on one.
Seth retracts his hand, entirely unabashed at Fox's obvious loathing
Seth: Excellent. Now, to find Triple B and brainstorm entrances if we're drawn together. Got to admit, it would be something to ride a bear. Though honestly, I'd much rather ride an otter.
Seth winks and gives Fox finger guns as he backs away, leaving the Englishman to attempt to set him on fire with his mind.
Taylor: we are excited to be back with the fans tonight, folks, and I think we're gonna have some surprises in store for us!
Romano: Enough talk -- let's get to the action! It's the biggest night in wrestling!
Taylor: Just goes to show, when you put on a show as big as Fired Up, anything can happ- wait, what's this now?
The titantron begins to play a clip of the backstage area, the camera making its way to the rear parking lot. As we catch up to the scene, a black SUV slowly pulls up and sits still for a few moments as the camera tries to focus on who’s in the vehicle.
Taylor: Who’s this now? A team arriving in style, or a special guest appearance?
Romano: Your guess is as good as mine Tommy, pulling up at this time in the show however makes me think it’s not a team, but it could be- ...oh my God, is that who I think it is??
Taylor: Holy *BEEP*, that’s… Hyperion.. He’s back?!
The vehicle in the parking lot swings its rear door open slightly and out comes the gigantic Hall of Famer, the former two-time AWF Champion, and last year's Fired Up winner, the Mad Titan himself. Hyperion fixes his attire, his leather waistcoat over a white shirt and torn jeans, gives the camera a suspicion smirk and slowly makes his way into the building.
Romano: Well I had not expected to see this man back in the AWF ever again, not after his controversial exit last Christmas.
Taylor: Controversial? He tried to MURDER someone on live television! Another roster member at that!
“Into The Future” by Chef’Special plays as Guillotina walks down the ramp towards the ring with a big grin on his face, shaking hands, giving high fives, flirtatiously winking at his female fans and of course signing teenager t-shirts.
Guillotina was wearing this Cyberpunk outfit:
Two spinning stool chairs were placed in the middle of the ring, with a microphone headset on each of them. Once in the ring, Guillotina puts the headset mic on and begins to talk to the crowd.)
Guillotina: Goooood evening! SIN CITIZENS!!
Pauses for a few seconds
Guillotina: I know this is Paradise but we all know you are as sinful and badass as your big neighbors! Tonight is a great night! Tonight is the night for big revelations! Tonight is the night where every hard working superstar will have the opportunity to make a name for themselves and shine! Maybe write history! Yaaaah!?
Crowd chant “Yaaaah!!’
Guillotina: Hence on “hard working”! Meaning not you Rob Garcia!
Because see? You may not believe that I am from the future but this will prove that I am from it. Because it is true that you took advantage of a certain someone, it is Rob!
Not even your ReVecunts friends know about this do they? Of course, it’s not like it would make much of a difference as all of you are cut with the same scissors.
You had managed to bury this story and it would have never been found out if it wasn’t for me, given the fact that I hold the records of everything that is going to happen in 20 years from now and what happened in the last 20 years too!
I do my best to respect people’s privacy, but I can’t do my best to ignore injustices done on innocent people! Especially when the perpetrators claim that the fruits of their “labor” come from hard work! Tonight! I’m exposing Rob Garcia for the free-loading, scrounging, loafer, skiver, parasite that he really is!
Ladies and Gentlemen, allow me to take off the veil from your faces by introducing to you Rob Garcia’s ex-wife! CLAIRE!
Claire walks down the ramp hastily and gets in the ring. She regards the crowd and handshakes Guillotina. The time traveler puts the headset mic on his guest and invites her to sit on the stool.
Guillotina: Thank you Claire for agreeing to see me at a live show, I know this could be very hard for you.
Claire: No, thanks for inviting me and letting me tell the truth.
Guillotina: Of course! Please let everyone know who Claire is.
Claire: I’m just a multi-entrepreneurial, self-made billionaire woman from the United Kingdom.
Guillotina: Nice! I love it when women prove to men that they are as capable! Very good!
Claire: Thank you.
Guillotina: What is the truth that you came to tell us?
Claire: That Rob Garcia is not the person he claims to be!
Guillotina: Why is that?
Claire: Because he played with me, he used me and then he made my life a living hell when I was with him to the point I was really happy to pay him alimony for life, as long as he just left and never came back.
Guillotina: Wooow! That bad? But why would you marry such a prick?
Claire: Do you think if he showed his true colors from the start I would have let him into my life?
Men like him are at first the charmest, coolest, most gentlemen, kindest and most passionate lovers you could ever dream of. He was the perfect man! He was not so smart? But he appeared to have heart! Lots of it! Which is something that in my world you see less and less as you go up the ladder of hierarchy and power.
Guillotina: So he sold you a different persona?
Claire: Yes! He was incredible! I couldn’t believe I was so lucky and well, now I know that he was too good to be true.
Guillotina: After the veil was off, what was the quality that you still loved and the defect you learnt to hate the most from him?
Claire: Still loved? Oh… the sex! He was such a "Dominus"! His sex drive was limitless and he made me feel like a woman every time we had sex everywhere! And his BEEEEP was so big!
Guillotina: Ok, ok, ok…this is a PG-13 show, let’s not get into too many unimportant details.
Claire: Right! I’m sorry! And the thing I learnt to hate the most about him was how obnoxious, manipulative and vile he can be!
Guillotina: You said that you ended up giving him alimony for life. Can you tell us what is the amount you give him?
Claire: I pay him half a million British Sterling Pounds every month.
(Crowd: Ooooooooh)
Guillotina: That is $640,000 US Dollars give or take! That is a lot of money!
Have you tried to appeal it?
Claire: What difference is gonna make? By law I’m obliged to support him until he gets married again and I don’t think he’ll give up $600,000 dollars for a woman, real or not.
I just wanted to make it clear that his penthouse in Beverly Hills and all those luxuries he brags about don’t come from hard work, I mean, you gotta be at the level of Dwayne Johnson to earn that much now as a wrestler and Rob is just a champion-less, talent-less and dumb mid carder.
Guillotina: Oooooooh! BUUUUUURN! Thank you Claire! Thank you for your bravery tonight! The truth has helped our cause!
Is this the hard work money that you always brag about Rob Garcia? You targeted a person, gained her trust, made her fall in love with you and used her to get yourself rich! You sir! Are a piece of *BEEEEP*!!
You and your ReVecunts pals!
That is why I’m gonna take advantage of this segment to announce that the ReVenants little-with-lowercaps moment will soon come to an end! If there is anyone who’d join forces with me to take them down, let me know! Let’s do it! Let’s declare war on these crooks!
(“On Another Level” by Tommee Profitt plays, while Guillotina and Claire walk up the ramp to the backstage, guarded by Claire’s 16 bodyguards.)
We cut to backstage where we find Rob Garcia running down the halls of the arena with Jeff Noon chasing behind him.
Rob: Where is she?!
He screams out
Jeff: Claire is not supposed to be here! We have a restraining order against her! I’m calling the police!
Jeff pulls out his phone as they continue to rush down the halls.
Rob: Then why was she here?!
Rob yells out in frustration. They come out into the parking lot. Rob looks around frustrated, Jeff is in the background talking on the phone. He then looks into the camera.
Rob: You think this is funny, Guillotina?! You bringing Claire in here, trying to devalue all my hard work?!
He says with a scowl across his face and an aggressive tone in his voice.
Rob: I wasn’t lying when I said I worked hard for that money! I mean look at her!! And it wasn’t me lying to her, she’s the liar! And a total bitch! She was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do in my life! She didn’t divorce me, I divorced her!
Rob takes a step back and points over at Jeff with a very smug manner about his presence.
Rob: And now, because of your stupid mistakes, exposing my personal business, you got another person hurt!
He says nodding his head and he starts to grin in a very evil way.
Rob: See, dumb ass I had a restraining order on Claire! And now because you had her on this talk show of yours, she’s violated that restraining order! Jeff Noon is calling the cops right now and she’s gonna go to jail!
Jeff stands there still on hold, he flames over at Rob and nods his head. Rob turns around to Jeff.
Rob: Are they on the way?
Jeff nods his head and holds up a finger to Rob and then turns around talking on the phone. Rob turns back with a confused look upon his face.
Rob: Well.. She’s going to jail! And it’s all your fault!
Rob screams out like a spoiled brat not getting his way. He then storms off and back towards the building, Jeff sees this and then chases after Rob.
Bubby Love arrives to the ring, ready to wrestle.
Taylor: This is the first that we see of Bubby Love!
Romano: He's also the first entrant of the AWF Fired Up Tournament 2020, and what a way to set things off! Now who's his opponent going to be?
"Nookie" by Limp Bizkit begins to play, causing the crowd to erupt in a sea of boos. After the initial intro of the song, the rockin' sounds of guitar motions for Justin Case to come out, wearing a shit-eating grin as he adjusts the belt of his tights. He swaggers on down the entrance ramp, holding his nose up high as he blatantly ignores all of the fans. Some are giving him the finger, some are trying to punch him, but he can't be touched. He mocks a few of the people, sticking his tongue out before moving up the ring steps.
Jessie Love: The following contest is a tag team match in the First Round of the AWF Fired Up Tournament! Introducing first... the team of Justin Case and Bubby Love!
He rolls into the ring and teases to go to the middle rope, but makes a motion against it, opting to pose in the middle of the ring instead with his somewhat flabby arms, before going over to his corner, ready to kick some ass with a few practice jumping jacks. Bubby looks over and gives a respectful nod.
Taylor: And here's our first team of the Fired Up tournament! Bubby Love and Justin Case!
Romano: But this brand new team has an opponent and we're all curious who this new team will be.
"Timebomb" by Beck blasts into the arena and all the lights change to a cool shade of neon blue. Seth Dillinger struts out to the top of the ramp wearing sunglasses, jeans, and a button-down shirt with the top two buttons undone, showing off just a bit of his pecs. After the countdown timer hits zero, Seth starts to stroll down to the ring, smirking at the crowd and soaking up their applause. When he reaches the bottom of the ramp, he rolls into the ring under the bottom rope, then paces around to each side of the ring, smiling at the crowd.
Taylor: And here's a big contender straight off the bat! The one who won the first Fired Up tournament. It's Seth Dillinger!
Romano: I'm curious who his partner will be. Seth doesn't do well in teams anymore.
BOW DOWN BEFORE THE ONE YOU SERVE.
YOU'RE GOING TO GET WHAT YOU DESERVE.
BOW DOWN BEFORE THE ONE YOU SERVE.
YOU'RE GOING TO GET WHAT YOU DESERVE!
Seth's eyes grow wide. Once the final word is heard, the eyes on the screen turn to red and everything cuts to black, the sounds of "Head Like A Hole" by Nine Inch Nails is heard as all of the house lights continue to stay off, the fans using whatever light source they can use to illuminate in front of them.
HEAD LIKE A HOLE!
BLACK AS YOUR SOUL!
I'D RATHER DIE THAN GIVE YOU CONTROL!
The sudden change of lighting on the entrance ramp appears, the light-up jacket of The Prince. Once the bridge of the song kicks in, all of the house lights shine down on Maverick - with the Destiny Wrestling Heavyweight Championship around his waist - who looks out to the many in attendance with a smile on his face, he raises his arms up and stands with his arms stretched out wide, he lowers his arms and makes his way down to the ring in a slow manner, taking his time as the chorus of loud cheers rain down on him. Upon making it to ringside, he circles around the ring and hitting the hands of every fan in attendance that reaches out to him. He climbs up the steps and walks along the apron, brushing his feet along the apron before entering through the middle ropes. Maverick springs himself into the corner and roars out to the crowd before unstrapping the belt from his waist and raising it up high with both hands for the crowd to see. Meanwhile, Seth's eyes stare open to find who his new partner is.
Jessie Love: And their opponents... the team of Maverick and Seth Dillinger!!
Taylor: It's a man who calls himself royalty! It's Maverick! He's teamed up with Seth!
Romano: These two have clashed together many times together but now, these two men who have been divorced from their former groups are now expected to have to work alongside one another!
Fired Up First Round Match
Bubby Love & Justin Case vs. Seth Dillinger & Maverick
The two teams take to their corners, getting themselves situated for the match when suddenly the light drop and the arena is plunged into darkness. A few moments of nothing pass, only broken by the flashes of the camera when a bell begins to chime.
DING…
DING…
DING…
DING…
As expected, the opening chords to ‘Gently’ by Slipknot begin to play, and sends a wave of roads across the crowd, both good and bad.
Romano: We saw him pull up in the carpark earlier, last year's winner of this same tournament, and tonight he is back again.
Taylor: I was waiting for this Cassius, oh my God what is going to happen!
The arena lights come back as a single glowing spotlight hits the stage, and reveals Hyperion standing there watching the ring. Seth and Maverick are noticeably taken aback by his presence, and as Hyperion marches towards the ring they brace themselves for whatever is to come.
Taylor: Oh how I would love to see Hyperion back in action in the ring tonight! And these two men have more history with the Titan than most. Maverick deflated his momentous return last year, and Seth defeated him and took the Prestige title during his last ever match here in the AWF!
Romano: How is he even here Tommy? Last we saw him he was being carted away by police, with Felix Ziko tearing up his contract!
Taylor: I guess he found a loophole… damn son of a gun always finds a way!
As the duo of Seth and Maverick are braced and ready, Hyperion matches his way around the ring, smiling up at them, almost mocking them. He approaches the announcers table, but with their eyes on Hyperion the duo don't see the surprise attack from Case and Love coming. A double blind-sided attack drives Maverick out of the ring, and leaves Seth and Love to kick things off.
DING DING!
Taylor: And we’re off, and not how we expected at all. Maverick has been knocked to the outside already, and the referee is forcing Case back to his corner. Inside the ring Love is taking advantage of the sneak attack and is stomping holes into Seth Dillinger.
Romano: And we’re being joined by a special guest here at ringside too it seems!
Jessie quickly frees up her seat and headset, passing them over to Hyperion who accepts them with a smile.
Hyperion: Gentlemen.
Romano: Mr. Hyperion, glad to have you with us. Can’t say we were prepared or aware that you would be, of course.
Hyperion: No need to concern yourselves, I haven’t seen a good fight in some time and just fancied a spot in the best seats of the house. Nothing more.
Taylor: Great to see you back here as always… uh, are you going to be sticking around?
Hyperion: We shall see, small man. We shall see... Now, to the fight at hand!
Inside the ring Love has used the advantage beautifully and tags in Justin Case to continue the onslaught. Seth is on all fours but is getting the sharp end of a heel into the back for his troubles. Case pulls him to his feet and sends him into their corner, following up with a nice double team mudstomps and chokehold combo. The referee quickly breaks this up.
Hyperion: So gentlemen, have I missed much around these halls?
Romano: You could say that… you’ve been gone for nearly nine months. There has been some changes, I suppose.
Taylor: Some new faces, some old faces returning, some titles moving around, some teams forming and some breaking… usual business mostly.
Hyperion: Good, glad to hear things still move without my push. The duo in the ring right now, do they still remain almighty?
Romano: Seth and Maverick? Uh, sure, you could call them that.
Hyperion: I would never call them that. Do not insult me.
Romano: …
Taylor: …
Hyperion: ...I like this clown person before us.
Another tag and Bubby Love is now leading the march, using the ring to his advantage. He sends Seth running against the ropes, dodging his approach and letting Seth run into a high kick from Justin, and a cheeky roll up by Love.
ONE
TW- Easy Kickout
Love pulls Seth up by the neck and chops him back down to the mat. He does the same a second time, but is blocked on his third attempt as Seth rams a hard shoulder into the midsection. Back to his feet Seth gains momentum again with some quick sharp kicks to the leg and knee of Bubby Love. He runs to the ropes and uses his speed to hit a nice hard shoulder, dropping him down. Seth turns to face Mav, who has him hand outstretched as a manner of support but Seth just smirks and continues. He whips Bubby once more against the ropes, allowing Case to reach out and get in a sneaky tag. Seth takes down Bubby Love with a clothesline, but is met with one himself by Justin Case.
Romano: Some good teamwork here by Justin Case and Bubby Love. Two strangers to the ways of Fired Up, they are quickly learning that they need to form a tight bond to win.
Hyperion: I won this foolish game even though I was tied to my own enemy. This requires nothing more than sheer determination.
Taylor: And a big boot to the head.
Hyperion: Several big boots to the head.
Taylor: So how come you didn’t sign up? You’re here, and you’re ready by the looks of it… why not fight?
Hyperion: This gauntlet is for a golden belt I no longer covet. To reign as the Champion of AWF for the third time is no desire of mine. Were I to enter this ring once more, there is only one prize I would desire.
Romano: ...and that is?
Hyperion just smirks, and points to the ring to move attention back to the match. Inside the ring Seth is now looking to be in a spot of trouble, as Bubby and Case have mastered the art of quick tags. Switching in and out after a flurry of attacks, Seth is trapped in their corner and taking damage. Justin Case mouths something to him then whips him towards Maverick, only to reverse the whip and send Seth back into the same corner again. Bubby tags in and tries the same, but Seth counters the reversal with a low kick and a snap DDT. Both men are downed, but Seth is moving slower. Bubby gets back to his feet once more, annoyed that Seth got the better of him. Justin Case leans over the ropes, pulling the refs attention away to allow Bubby some safety time to assault Seth when-
Iconkick!
Bam! Out of nowhere, Mav has jumped the ropes and taken out Bubby Love with a superkick from the blue! Mav grabs Seth by the arm and yanks him halfway across the ring before exiting to his apron and holding out his hand for the tag.
Taylor: Maverick is growing impatient on the apron it seems!
Romano: And Bubby Love looks like he’s out for the count! That surprise kick nearly took his head off!
Hyperion: I have received many of those kicks, you over estimate their power.
Taylor: Didn’t you take like five in a row, then lose to Maverick?
Hyperion: ...you sir, have balls of steel. To say that to my face, as I sit alongside you?
Taylor: I… I didn’t mean…
Hyperion: Do not cower, continue your bravado? Speak to me some more about my failures and frustrations.
Taylor: ...
Hyperion: Hmph, a bark from a dog it seems. Coward. Do not cry, little man.
Taylor: ...I’m not crying, you are!
With Seth on his feet and dusting off, he turns to face Mav but refuses the tag. The intervention and the drag combined have left a bad taste in the mouth of Seth, and the two enter into an argument in their corner. Their opponents take advantage, Bubby Love just making it in time for a tag, and Justin Case enters the ring ready to kill. Seth spots this, and refuses the tag but instead runs up the corner turnbuckles, spring-boarding backward in a somersault and nailing Case with a stunner!
Romano: South Philly Stunner! Justin Case just sprinted into that, and now it looks like he’s seeing nothing but stars.
Taylor: Bubby Love is just back on his feet, and Justin Case is out. This team is already in major trouble!
Hyperion: These two must be amateurs of combat. That was a perfect moment to seize a powerful opportunity, to catch Dillinger in the air an crush his bones against the corner.
Romano: Perhaps for you, but Justin Case is not a God reborn such as yourself.
Hyperion: No, that is true. I do wish to see more of my kind here someday.
Seth looks down at Justin and slaps in Mav for the tag, one the Prince is not too happy with. His foe is downed and there is no fight to be had. Another argument ensues, but Seth ignores it with an arrogant smile on his face. Maverick lifts up Justin Case scoop slamming him and preparing him for some top rope action. He tags Seth once more, and signals for him to climb the ropes. Seth obliges, and nails a perfect 450 splash onto the floored Justin Case.
Romano: Some Acid Rain to add insult to injury. I don’t think Case nor Love knew how screwed they were entering this match!
Taylor: They are just toying with their prey now it seems, might be time to call it quits guys.
Hyperion: A lion shreds his prey, tears it limb from limb. The lion shows what a true King does to set an example, this boy Prince however… he is no King.
Romano: Perhaps you two should duke it out, winner takes the moniker of King once and for all?
Hyperion: Perhaps… Maverick will never lead a kingdom. He is a King of nothing. Maybe this idea would grow and blossom, then that might be something to ponder.
Taylor: Either way, Maverick isn’t letting this match end too soon it seems!
After the Acid Rain, Seth refuses to pin the downed Case, tagging Maverick back in again. Annoyed that he’s left without a fight, Maverick drags Case to the far corner and encourages Bubby Love to make the tag, which he does. Mav gives him room to enter and lock up, Love even getting the advantage and running Mav to the ropes but is easily countered. Love goes for the haymaker but it is dodged, then drops to shoot for a leg lock but is narrowly avoided. Mav hits the ropes and comes at Love who is ready with an over the top jump to Mav’s duck… but a quick change in position sets Maverick up for another Iconkick, to Bubby's face, nailing him in midair.
Taylor: The slap off that just echoes this whole arena! Bubby is down!
Romano: Iconkick as he was falling from that jump. Maverick spotted the move and took advantage, and Justin Case is barely moving on the apron too!
Hyperion: This travesty has gone on long enough, it is time to put an end to this.
Inside the ring, Maverick and Seth begin to argue again, neither willing to pin their prey and instead looking to drag out this fight. However, at the site of Hyperion marching to the ring, Seth commands something to Maverick, which he obeys and places a foot on the chest of Bubby Love.
ONE
TWO
THREE!!
Jessie Love: Your winners, and progressing onto the next round… Maverick, and Seth Dillinger!
Maverick's eyes don’t leave Hyperion, even backing up as the Titan moves closer to the ring. Seth shouts something to Maverick, and the duo slides out of the ring towards the ramp.
Romano: A wise move there, hard to catch it but it sounds like Seth was reminding Maverick of the night ahead of them. The pair have worked remarkably well together in this match, and it wouldn’t be wise to brawl it out with a fresh Hyperion.
Taylor: Not at all, not when the night is still young and there is a lot more fighting to happen.
Romano: Well it looks like Maverick and Seth are moving on, and more than ready for their battles tonight. And Hyperion is now slowly marching up the ramp behind them, nipping on their heels!
Taylor: A terrifying man that guy, his arm was bigger than my head Cassius… my head!
Romano: We were blessed to have him here, let’s call it that. He didn't try to stab us with a trident either, so that was good.
Taylor: Very good. Let’s take a break for a moment, get a cleanup crew to remove Case and Love from the ring and we’ll be right back with out next match!
Earlier today in the backstage area of the MGM Grand Garden Arena a door swings open and El Combatiente and his interpreter Javier walk in.
Javier: We’ve finally reached the big day. I’m going to head and see if I can’t find out who your partner is. Why don’t you go find our locker room and put your bags away.
El Combatiente and Javier share a fist bump and Javier walks off camera. El Combatiente looks around and sees a sign directing towards the locker rooms and heads toward that hallway. He doesn’t make it but two steps before he is bumped by someone from out of no where.
Merric: Argh! You won’t get the jump on me Terrasque! Oh.
Possible partner and AWF newcomer Aiden Merric has bumped into El Combatiente heading in the same direction.
Merric: You’re not him. Sorry about that. Been having to have eyes in the back of my head.
El Combatiente: Eres mi compañero
(Are you my partner?)
Merric: Oh, you must be that guy from that other place who doesn’t speak English. I don’t understand you, but beer is the universal language I speak.
Merric motions to tip one back.
Merric: But I can’t have one due to the damn pain meds I’m on from my smashed up ribs. You wanna drink one for me so I can live vicariously through you.
El Combatiente: A menos que me pregunte si quiero agua, debo rechazarla. No bebo en días de eventos.
(Unless you are asking if I want water I must decline. i do not drink in days of events.)
Merric: I heard a no in there. Well that’s too bad. It gives me fuel though if we end up facing off tonight.
El Combatiente: Espero que no seas mi socio. Te ves bastante mal.
(I hope you are not my partner. You look in rather poor shape.)
Merric: I heard another no in there. I’ll assume that means you don’t want to have to face me. I don’t blame ya, hopefully we’ll be teamed up and it won’t matter. Anyway, let’s get to the locker rooms. Why don’t you go first and I’ll walk behind you backwards so Terrasque can’t sneak up on me.
Merric turns around looking for his rival and El Combatiente takes that as the cue the conversation is over and turns and heads down the hall with Merric following him, walking backwards with his head on a swivel.
Tiny: MEW! MEW!
We see Subject #42’s cat running through the backstage area, but no sign of the monster. The cute and adorable spotted kitten darts through the legs of people, even causing one technician to spill their coffee. Another sneezes as the tiny furball seems scared as it runs through the backstage area, maybe never having seen this many people before.
As the technician picks up their coffee, they are knocked to the ground by the Freak. The human car crash between the two is not a pretty sight but Subject remains upright. The technician is not happy.
Technician: What the hell is wrong with you?! Damnit!
Subject has no time for apologies as the kitten is still on the loose.
Subject: RAGH!
Tiny: MEW!
Subject continues chasing after Tiny Fur.
The opening of the TuPac’s “To Live and Die in LA” hits the pa system and El Combatiente follows his manager Javier onto the stage. They look around soaking up there surrounding until El Combatiente breaks into a full sprint for the ring and slides in. Javier slowly walks to ringside and takes his position at ringside as El Combatiente stretches in the ring preparing for his match to begin.
Jessie Love: Introducing now, hailing from South Los Angeles, CA. Coming in at 5’9 and 219 pounds .... EL COMBATIENTE!!!
Taylor: Our most Hispanic wrestler in AWF history is now here and straight from SWAT too!
Romano: Oh come on. He's more than just Hispanic. He hails from the original XHF, and he has so much to offer us!
🎶HARD🎶 by Tay-K and BloccBoy JB erupts over the sound system throughout the arena and a roar of boo's and jeers explodes from the crowd. The beat drops and out from the curtain walks Rob Garcia wearing what looks to be a mink coat. He stops and stands at the entrance ramp, staring at the crowd with a smug look upon his face. As he stands there, his manager, Jeff Noon then makes his way out holding a clipboard and he then stands to the right of Rob. Rob turns his head to look at Jeff, and they both nod, Rob then slowly makes his way down towards the ring, Jeff following behind. Rob stops half way and starts trash talking a fan, Jeff then uses his clipboard to block the fans face when they try to react and he then moves his hand forward to escort Rob to the ring. Rob jumps up on the ring apron, as Jeff runs up the steps, he walks to the turnbuckle, climbs it and raises his hand in the air holding up his index finger. The crowd continues to boo and yell insults and vulgar remarks at Rob as he yells "I'm the man! I'm number one! I'm the king of extreme!" He then jumps down off the turnbuckle and makes his way over to Noon. El Combatiente greets him with a respectful hand, but Rob simply gives him the cold shoulder.
Taylor: Rob Garcia! He's partnering up with El Combatiente! He has a ReVenant on his side!
Romano: I can tell you right now. This is a formidable team. They're going to go far.
Jessie Love: The following is a tag team contest in the AWF Fired Up Tournament and is scheduled for ONE FALL! Introducing first... the team of Rob Garcia and El Combatiente!!
"Bad Weather" by In Her Own Words hits the speakers. As the song kicks it up a notch and gets heavier, Spike Skye comes out with a big smirk on his face, hearing a positive reaction from the fans as he throws up a set of peace signs before coming down the entrance ramp, high fiving a few fans.
He climbs the steel steps, wiping his boots on the apron before standing on top of the second rope. He shouts "C'MON!" to get the crowd riled up, before doing a rope assisted cartwheel into the ring, doing a few short hops as he backs himself into the corner, preparing for this match ahead of him.
Taylor: Spike Skye! One of AWF's newest has decided to show us exactly what they have!
Romano: There's so much going on and he has a good chance to get one of the top AWF members by his side.
The lights go down and the sound of people cheering starts to play. Spotlights come up in pairs, focusing on the stage until Stagefright starts to play as fog covers the stage and strobing purple lights play along with the song. Slowly a platform rises from the center of the stage, revealing a figure in an elaborate velvet robe, with "Tommy Strychnine" signed on the back in flickering LEDs. Tommy spins around when the lyrics start and shrugs off the robe, lip-synching along to the song and imitating playing guitar as he makes his way down the ramp, stopping to take selfies and give high fives to fans along the way. When he gets to the ring, he poses on the turnbuckle with his guitar, pretending to play along with the song, before handing off the guitar to the ring crew and doing a flip off the turnbuckle into a powerslide as pyro goes off from the corners of the ring. Tommy grins and gives the surprised Skye a pat on the back on his way past.
Jessie Love: And their opponents... Spike Skye and Tommy Strychnine!!
Taylor: And he does! He has Tommy Strychnine, the former AWF United States Champion!
Romano: Not just any US Champ! He's taken the belt off Vincent Draven, the very man who everyone has their eyes on!
Fired Up First Round Match
El Combatiente and Rob Garcia vs. Spike Syke and Tommy Strychnine
Garcia gestures for where Combatiente can stand as he positions himself to start the match. Spike Skye volunteers to go, the bell rings, and the match is on.
Taylor: Here we go!
Garcia is already jawing at Skye, who swings in with an early attempt at Lunch Lady’s Dish, trying to kick him in the gut. Garcia dodges out of the way and locks him up, but gets pushed off. He bounces off the ropes and lands a running missile dropkick. He springs back up and continues to mock Skye, pushing him down. Combatiente is clearly already uncomfortable.
Taylor: The ReVenants truly believe they’re better than everyone else.
Romano: It’s not hard to see why!
Skye looks to crawl over for the quick tag, but Garcia has grabbed him by the foot. Skye pushes off the mat and counters, hurricanranaing Garcia through the ropes! Skye finds his opening and bounces off the ropes -- only to have his ankle grabbed by Jeff Noon! Javier is distracting the referee!
Taylor: It’s nearly four on two out here! This isn’t fair!
Romano: Combatiente seems to agree with you!
Combatiente seems to threaten violence with Noon, and that’s enough to get Noon to release his grasp. Skye manages to charge at the ropes and leap through them, bringing down Garcia with a tornado DDT!
Taylor: A high-flying move there!
Romano: Strychnine telling him to move out of the way!
Strychnine climbs up to the top rope and positions himself backward, stage diving onto Garcia! The crowd pops as the three men are down. The referee’s count continues to grow, but it has to restart as Combatiante joins the action, diving through the ropes onto all three men!
Taylor: The action has gotten out of control early here!
Romano: All four men are down!
The count climbs as eventually Strychnine is first back to his feet. He helps Skye get up and the two men grab Garcia. Garcia’s arms are held back as Skye this time connects with the Lunch Lady’s Dish! Skye gets back in as Strychnine sends Garcia back in and hooks the leg!
...ONE...
...TWO…
Rob Garcia kicks out!
Taylor: Garcia kicks out of the two-on-one!
Romano: Skye and Strychnine are clicking out there!
Skye positions himself and flips, crashing down on Garcia with the Galaxy Press! He covers again!
...ONE…
...TWO…
...Garcia kicks out again!
Taylor: Garcia looking in bad shape there! Skye and Strychnine are unrelenting!
Romano: This could go bad for the ReVenant if he can’t make a tag!
Strychnine sticks his hand out and gets tagged in. Garcia gets back up but he needs to make a tag. He crawls towards his corner, but Tommy is on top of him, dragging him back up to his feet for the Tommynocker! He holds Garcia on his shoulders, but Jeff Noon jumps on the apron, distracting him long enough for Garcia to claw his eyes and spin into the Overdose!
Romano: Overdose from Garcia! That’s his opening!
Taylor: Damnit! He had help with the distraction from his manager!
Instead of going for the pin, Garcia crawls over and forcibly smacks Combatiante’s chest, tagging him in. El is clearly not thrilled about the tag, but he has work to do. He springboards off the rope and flips, moonsaulting onto Strychnine! He covers!
...ONE…
...TWO…
Tommy Strychnine kicks out!
Taylor: Tommy with the kickout this time!
Romano: It’s going to take something special to take down any of these men, all of them want to move on! That’s how important the championship is to them!
Combatiante looks down at his opponent. He pays no mind to what Javier’s shouting as he puts Strychnine against the second rope in a similar position to the Strych-One-Nine. Javier gets up on the apron and shouts something at his client, distracting both him and the referee and leaving Noon able to strike Tommy with a hard right hand right to the face!
Taylor: This is getting ridiculous!
Romano: It’s hard to keep your eyes on four guys, and they’re using that to their full advantage. I don’t know if SWAT’s resident masked man saw that last right hand, or even endorses it, but Tommy looks a bit dazed on the ropes!
Combatiente runs at Strychnine, connecting on a spinning tiger feint kick! Tommy drops to the mat!
Taylor: Tommy might be out here! The cover and the count!
...ONE…
...TWO…
...Spike Skye crashes down on the pin, making the save!
Romano: Skye getting even with the opposition, saving the match for his team!
Garcia is already back in the ring to yell at the referee for not controlling Skye, but Skye responds by jumping straight at him and planting him with a float-over cutter!
Taylor: Ride the Fire!
Romano: Skye has had enough!
Skye takes a moment to stand over his opponent, but finds himself quickly locked against El Combatiante’s shoulders! El runs against the turnbuckles and flips backward, crashing Skye into the mat!
Taylor: Sliced Bread from the TV Champion!
Romano: There goes Skye!
While the referee is busy clearing Skye out of the ring, Strychnine smashes a whiskey bottle over the back of El Combatiante’s head! Javier is furious but he’s powerless to stop Strychnine from completing the Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, stomping down on El Combatiante’s head!
Taylor: Two can play at their game! Whiskey Tango Foxtrot!
Romano: This could be it! Tommy’s readying himself up for the Kiss Me Deadly!
Strychnine quickly moves out to the apron, preparing to springboard! He leaps…
...but before he can leap, he’s smacked right in the spine with Jeff Noon’s clipboard! The manager hides the evidence as the crowd boos wildly!
Taylor: That damn Jeff Noon stikes again! Strychnine crashes down to the mat!
Romano: Garcia’s reached out and tagged himself in!
A groggy Tommy Strychnine stumbles back up to his feet, only to be met with a running flying knee from Rob Garcia!
Taylor: Boston Knee Party! Strychnine’s out!
Romano: And there’s no Skye to break up the pin!
Garcia covers!
...ONE…
...TWO..
...THREE!
The bell rings!
Jessie Love: Here are your winners, the team of EELLLLLLL COMBATIANTTEEEEEEEEEEE and ROOOOOOOOBBBB GARCIIIIIIIIIIIAAA!
Romano: They say cheaters never prosper, but this match would certainly tell you otherwise!
Taylor: Four skilled competitors in this match, but the antics of Javier and Noon helped push Combatiante and Garcia over in this match!
Romano: And the way they looked out there, I’m not convinced they couldn’t have won without their help!
Garcia stands in the ring, mouthing off to the world that he’s the next AWF Prestige Champion. Combatiente has his hand raised with Garcia, but it’s clear he really does not endorse all the underhandedness going on.
Taylor: The champion isn’t too happy with his partner there!
Romano: Hey, he should be happy! His team won the match!
Combatiente shakes his head as Garcia continues running his mouth. Javier and Jeff Noon look particularly pleased.
Romano: We’re off to a rip roaring start here at Fired Up!
Taylor: That’s right Cassius, but we still don’t know who that second secret entrant is!
Romano: I mean we saw Hyperion but he claims to just be visiting. Who else could … hold on I’m getting word the backstage cameras have something?
The screen cuts to a view of the backstage area where the crew was filming shots for the DVD extra features. It is panning around the area near the talent entrance and suddenly we see a familiar site to those who pay attention to MCCW and global shows. A black bowler hat adorned on the head of a man in an expensive Armani suit. MCCW World Heavyweight Champion Death Trap is in the building.
Taylor: Death Trap? We haven’t seen him on AWF screens since that time he called out Maverick for the X*Crown title match at Supremacy in January!
Romano: You don’t think …
Death Trap is jovially greeting people and conversing when he notices two faces he is not familiar with. He approaches them and cordially greets them.
Death Trap: Hey there fellas. Death Trap. Nice to meet you. Now if I recall from my research you are … Adam Sanders yes?
Adam: Oh, yes, hi…
Sanders eyes widen after being approached but manages to give a soft wave.
Death Trap: I’ve heard good things from my friends here in AWF about you. High potential, good all-around guy to be around. Look is it just me or is everyone here kind of a tool? Even Draven and Fox who I have met before are acting like assholes. Did I miss something?
Adam: I mean, Guillotina has been nice to me. Not to mention Maverick has been pretty decent to me as well.
Death Trap: I don’t think I’ve had the pleasure sir, might I inquire as to who you are?
Adrien: We have not. I’m Adrien Cochrane. I’m not from around here. Neither the AWF nor the Network but my ties to my young student here has brought me in for at least this show. Since I’ve been following AWF shows since Adam signed and haven’t seen you plus that championship you have there isn’t AWF, I’m guessing you’re not from AWF either.
Death Trap: Well AWF has never been my home but with MCCW going down for the foreseeable future I have a vested interest in … scouting the competition … and potential new homes.
Adam: AWF could always use a few more good-hearted guys like you. Would put some extra competition to these guys.
Death Trap: We’ll have to see I suppose. I could always do this Brad Swann style tour around before I choose anything. And I still have my tag team stuff to worry about …
Adrien: You guys have a global tag division across the whole network here right? Sounds like my old WWA days. Big pond with a looooot of fishes in it. But that’s really part of the test, isn’t it? You never know what challenge you have awaiting for you with all the teams that exist.
Death Trap suddenly changes his demeanor to one of a stifled fury. Adam doesn’t notice but Adrien does and looks behind him where he sees another man lingering in the crowd. Hyperion.
Adrien: Oh that guy. Yeah he’s not real fun to be around.
Death Trap rubs his neck.
Death Trap: Yeah ……. We’ve met. Excuse me gentlemen, best of luck tonight. If you ever need anything give me a call …
He trails off as he marches past them towards the Mad Titan.
Hyperion: Yes it has been a grand adventure this whole year. Getting out of jail only to end up in lockdown…
Death Trap: They should have lost the key …
Hyperion turns around still with a joyful expression on his face.
Hyperion: Ah if it isn’t Death Trap!
Death Trap: Nice to see you remember me.
Hyperion: Hard to forget a hat like that.
Death Trap: Knox you have a lot of nerve showing up in public after the shit you’ve pulled. You tried to end my career, my partner’s career. What was just winning not good enough, had to be the ‘bigger’ man?
Hyperion: In case you haven’t noticed I am the bigger man.
DT balls his fists in rage as the Titan speaks.
Death Trap: I guess it’s a mercy for everyone you decided not to wrestle tonight then huh?
Hyperion: I suppose some would consider it as such. Then again what about the X*Crown Champion? Are you going to … oh wait you’ve already gone and lost that. And now my former Call to Arms colleague has it! How amusing!
Death Trap: Listen here … just because you tried to kill me doesn’t mean I’m afraid of you. One day we will meet in the ring one on one and I will exact my revenge. I don’t take kindly to people who bully and injure others for fun. I don’t forget so easily.
Hyperion: I was under the impression you did after all those shots to the head you’ve taken. And they say I’m delusional.
Death Trap: Just stay out of my way and I won’t have to choke you out …
DT turns and storms away as Charles Akiyama runs up holding a microphone.
Akiyama: Oh drat I wanted to interview him! Is he the other secret entrant?
Hyperion grunts.
Hyperion: Hard to say. He seems irritated for some reason. Guess we’ll have to wait and see!
The scene fades.
The camera opens outside of Felix Ziko’s office. Fans pop and boo as the door opens and the owner of the XHF Network steps out. Neither man is in a pleasant mood.
Felix Ziko: Thanks, Mongo.
Mongo: I'm telling you, Felix--
Tiny: MEW!
Mongo: What the?
Tiny Fur, still on the loose, quickly bounds by the head of the Network. Mongo looks down on the small creature as it disappears down the hall.
Mongo: What the hell kind of show are you running, Felix?
Knowing what’s going on, Felix grabs Mongo by the shoulders and pulls him back just as a three-hundred-and-twenty-five monster comes running by.
Subject: RAAAGH!
Felix and Mongo exchange a look as Subject also disappears down the hall. Mongo acknowledges Felix, then turns and looks back at where Subject ran off to.
Mongo: Yeah that’s about right.
The camera cuts.
“Falling Away From Me” by Korn plays as Jason Kross and Sally come out from the back to cheers from the audience. Sally holds her father’s hand while Jason keeps a stern look on his face, trying to show he is ready for the battle ahead. Kross high fives a couple of people going down while Sally is too sheepish to really acknowledge anybody. Kross walks Sally to her assigned corner and tells her to stay there no matter what before getting in the ring and stretching.
Taylor: And here we are in another round one match of Fired Up! With a fairly new competitor in Jason Kross!
Romano: He’s been around and has been somewhat down on his luck with his attempts to rise within the ranks. But tonight, he has the chance of a lifetime.
Taylor: That he does, Cassius!
The lights in the arena begin to glow a bright shade of blue, beginning in tandem as the opening beats to "Diva" by The Kid Laroi and Lil Tecca echoes over the PA system. After a few moments, Jullianna Del Marco struts out into view on the stage with a smirk creasing her expression. She makes her way to the center of the stage, doing a full one hundred and eighty-degree turn so the audience can get a look at her gear. The Californian brushes the dirt off her shoulders before proceeding down the ramp, initially with outstretched arms. Her smile grows to a wider, more visible one as three bell chimes cut through the air. She removes whatever pair of her signature shades she's wearing, tossing them out into the crowd as she walks down the aisle.
Taylor: But can he be able to work with someone like Hera Incarnate herself!
Romano: That’s a good point. That lay right there has an ego that would even make Caffrey roll his eyes. She’s talented, but arrogant- and Kross is a rather humble man. Hopefully they’ll be able to work together.
"That lil' bitch a diva, fuck and leave her
My life is a movie directed by Tarantino
Shawty is a dancer, I'm not talking Billie Jean, hoe
Oh, whoa, fuck, we know, I swear I hate these hoes
We know shawty is a eater
We know why she wanna see us
We know that she wanna be us
Oh, whoa, fuck, we know, I swear I hate these hoes"
A pop echoes within the arena’s four walls as the ring announcer gets the introductions underway. Del Marco continues down the ramp at a brisk pace, high-fiving fans along the barricade as she goes. Julianna hops up onto the ring apron, amidst scattered cheers and camera flashes dotting the audience. She blows a kiss out to the crowd before stepping over bottom rope, entering the ring at last. The petite Californian heads for the nearest corner, climbing onto the middle rope, posing for pictures and hyping the crowd up some more before hopping down and leaning back against the turnbuckles. All the while, her music continues to play and her brown eyes are fixed on the ramp. Julianna awaits the start of the match with anticipation; she’s just dying to kick someone in the face tonight.
The sparse guitars of "Demons" by Sleigh Bells echo out, distorted, across the arena. As the drums kick in, the lights in the arena change to blacklight as Deco walks out, lit up and glowing with her blacklight-activated ring gear on.
Ｙｏｕ ｄｒｉｎｋ ｔｈｅ ｗｉｓｅ ｂｌｏｏｄ
Ｙｏｕ＇ｒｅ ｇｏｎｎａ ｈｅａｒ ａｂｏｕｔ ｉｔ
Ｙｏｕ＇ｌｌ ｂｅ ｔａｋｅｎ ｄｏｗｎ ｂｒｉｃｋ ｂｙ ｂｒｉｃｋ ｂｙ ｂｒｉｃｋ
Deco throws her hood off and lets her pink hair light up in the blacklights, with the white teeth on the front of her face mask shining brightly, even appearing to be moving as the lights pulse on and off. She stops at ringside and waits for her partner.
Taylor: And here is some talent all the way from J-ROK in Japan, Deco! She has a bit of an ego herself, but she’s very determined- AND dangerous.
Romano: That I have to agree, she’s hungry, starving for opportunities- And starving talent is aggressive talent.
The arena lights pulse red as 'Riot' starts up. Bloodied Fox steps through the curtain, a look of determination on his face. He stalks down to the ring, nodding in acknowledgment of fans who cheer for him, before sliding into the ring. He meets Deco at ringside and the two of them nod, then slide into the ring together at the same time.
Taylor: And her partner is BLOODIED FOX!
Romano: This seems like a striker duo made in heaven!
Taylor: Fox has been showing some aggression himself, a darker- more serious side to himself. He isn’t here to play games tonight!
Fired Up Round One Match
Jason Kross and Julianna Del Marco vs. Deco and Bloodied Fox
The bell rings as both duos decide who will start the match first. Bloodied Fox and Deco seem to cooperatively decide that Fox will start the match. Kross almost steps through the ropes- but is stopped by Julianna who dismissively tells him to go back to the apron with a smirk on her face. Kross looks slightly irritated but does so anyways/
Taylor: Off to a good start, don’tcha think, Cassius?
Romano: ...If that’s what you want to call it, sure.
Fox moves in close to Julianna who quickly steps back into the corner, telling the referee to make Fox back off. He raises his hands in mock surrender before stepping back into the middle of the ring- JULIANNA RUNS IN WITH A YAKUZA KICK, BUT FOX DUCKS, HER FOOT BARELY MISSING HIS FACE. He backs up, surprised, as she throws a roundhouse kick- but he ducks again! Fox gets behind her and traps her into a full nelson- SNAP DRAGON SUPLEX WITH A BRIDGE!
Taylor: FOXCATCHER SUPLEX!
Romano: ALREADY?! IT MIGHT ALREADY BE OVER FOR THE TEAM OF DE MARCO AND KROSS!
The referee goes for the count!
ONE!
TW-!
Kross quickly breaks up the pin, and grabs Fox by the hair- DECO SLINGSHOTS HERSELF IN WITH A SPRINGBOARD KNEE STRIKE TO KROSS! HE GOES DOWN ONTO THE MAT, SHE QUICKLY ROLLS THE KROSSMAN OUT OF THE RING!
Taylor: That was QUICK!
Romano: She’s making sure there’s no interference! Great teamwork.
Fox gets up and begins lifting Hera Incarnate- AND SENDS HER BACK DOWN WITH A GAMENGIRI!
Taylor: GAMENGIRI, THE LEAPING ROUNDHOUSE KICK RIGHT TO JULIANNA’S HEAD!
Romano: Did you hear the sound of that kick?!
The Vulpine Scumbag motions for Deco and tags her in! He lifts Julianna once more, both he and Deco go for an Irish Whip, but De Marco refuses! They try for it again, but she refuses again! She delivers a kick to Fox’s gut and an open palm slap to Deco! The hard-striking duo stumble back and run at her- MATRIX DODGE BY JULIANNA, AND SHE TURNS TO DELIVER A HURRICANRANA TO BOTH OF THEM!
Taylor: WOAH!
Romano: THE GODDESS IS THE REAL DEAL, TAYLOR!
Kross climbs back to the apron and reaches out to make the tag to De Marco, she painfully crawls toward him and makes the tag! Kross quickly runs toward both Deco and Fox- QUESTION MARK KICK FROM FOX, KROSS IS OUT ON HIS FEET! DECO FOLLOWS WITH A LOW SPINNING SWEEP KICK THAT LEAVES HIMN ON HIS ASS, FOX, AND DECO BOTH REBOUND OFF THE ROPES- DOUBLE PENALTY KICK TO KROSS’ CHEST!
Taylor: DOUBLE PEEEEEEEEEEE-KAAAAAYYYYYYYYY!
Romano: Was that necessary?
Taylor: YES!
Deco quickly goes back to the apron to tag in Fox! He turns to Kross and watches him like a predator stalking its prey! He stands behind him as the Krossman is dazed- quickly goes for his wrist from behind! Kross delivers a couple of elbows to Fox and sends him back! He turns and goes for a spinning forearm but Fox dodges and goes behind Kross again, gaining wrist control in Ripcord position! Wasting no time, HE SPINS KROSS AROUND- AND CATCHES HIM WITH A CUTTER, KROSS GOES FACE FIRST AND ROLLS OVER ON HIS BACK UNCONSCIOUS!
Taylor and Romano: A HUSTLE, SWEETHEART!
Taylor: Wait, why isn’t Fox going for the pin!
The Psycho Scavenger looks over to Deco with a grin and tags her in, pointing toward the top rope! There’s a smirk in Deco’s eyes as she climbs up to the top and looks down at the knocked out Kross! Fox steps back and Deco dives- A MAJESTIC CORKSCREW SHOOTING STAR PRESS!
Taylor: SHE CALLS THAT DOTHACK!
Romano: That might be the flippiest thing I’ve ever seen!
She quickly goes for the pin! De Marco begins to realizes what’s happening and desperately climbs back into the ring, but Fox tackles her away!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Jessie Love: And your winners, advancing to Round Two of the Fired Up Tournament- DECO AND BLOODIED FOX!
Taylor: What a showing from these two!
Romano: The Queen tried her best, but she and Kross were outmatched by the striking ability of both Fox and Deco.
Taylor: I’m DEFINITELY rooting for them to make it!
Fox looks over to Deco and holds a hand out. She stands up and shakes his hand! The referee then raises both of their arms in victory before they head to the back.
Backstage in the halls we catch a glimpse of some roster members making their way to and fro, but none stick out as much as the towering figure of Hyperion slowly lumbering down the hall. Those that recognize him give him plenty of space, all but one…
Hyperion: Rat Bastard, it has been some time.
The XHF Legend stops Hyperion in his tracks, blocking his path and staring a hole through his former Call to Arms teammate. Nothing more is said for a moment, but slowly Rat extends a hand to shake, along with a smile on his face.
Rat: Good to see you big guy, it sure has been too long… welcome back.
Hyperion accepts the handshake with a smile.
Hyperion: I’m not back… just saying hello.
He pats Rat on the shoulder, and makes his way past to continue walking down the hallway. All eyes seem to be on him, but he strides on unphased. Until he’s blocked once more, this time by a small gathering of people marching towards him. Centering around a lone figure, her hair flowing as he walks, her eyes trained on those of Hyperion.
Hyperion: Natasha.
He says, giving her a slight nod.
Natasha: Hyperion.
She remarks back, not stopping for chit-chat, as her followers lead her forward. The former Legionaries let their formalities slide as they take their leave of one another.
Tiny: MEW!
The camera has gotten eyes back on the delightful ball of fur that is Subject #42’s kitten. The monster is missing as the kitten spots a food bowl and a dish full of milk.
The kitten checks around, looking for Subject. The bowl itself even says “TINY FUR” on it, but something is off about the situation. It might be the fact that the bowl and the dish are on the floor of a sideways-tilted box. Still, the kitten approaches the box cautiously.
Tiny: MEW!
The kitten walks up to the box and begins lapping up milk. Suddenly, the box is scooped up, and fiercely taped shut. The crowd boos as Aiden ‘Outback’ Merric has trapped the kitten.
Merric: Hah cat’s in the bag … and here comes the target. Dunno who wants this bloke or why they’d want him ALIVE but who am I to turn down a bonser paycheck and a hunt of a lifetime?
Merric hears the monster coming down the hall and places the box back down, jumping back behind cover, much further than socially-distanced from the box. Subject walks down the hall, turning its head in all sorts of directions as it tries to find Tiny Fur. Subject almost completely misses the box.
Tiny: MEW!
Subject: Ragh??
Aiden shifts his weight to soften the burden on his mutilated ribs and takes careful aim with his boomerang. He only has one shot and he knows how to make it count. Subject spots the box.
Merric: The bloody spotted heck did he say? Rock? That’s a blooming cat not a rock. Clearly this bloke ain’t playing with a full deck. It’s really a mercy I’m enacting on him.
Subject slowly moves towards the cat to avoid spooking it and Aiden leans over his hiding spot and throws the boomerang. It sails past Subject; in fact it keeps spinning and flies further down the hallway where it hits Tucker Bernard coming to Aiden with his coffee.
Bernard: OOF!
He does a comedy pratfall and spills the coffee all over himself. He screams from the heat before he passes out from the boomerang shot. Subject is now watching the boomerang with curiosity as it sails back. Subject drops the box right after opening it.
Subject: Ragh!
The boomerang is going to lead right back to Merric. Merric realizes Subject’s eyes are on him.
Merric: Oh no don’t look over here. I am in no condition to fistfight ANOTHER monster. Take the cat and leave!
Subject lets out a warning ragh to Merric. Tiny Fur scoots out of the box.
Subject: RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGHHHHHH!
This scares Tiny Fur, sending the tiny beast running away from the giant beast. Subject spots this and lets out the equivalent of a cursing ragh. Merric looks angry and relieved as Subject runs back after Tiny Fur.
Merric: Bloody Chunder! Blasted ribs puttered my aim.
Jessie Love: And now the next match! Entering first, from Dei Milites, New Earth, at six foot three inches and two hundred pounds … GUILLOTINA!
"I'm On Another Level" by Tommee Profitt plays for 30 seconds before he walks down the stage slowly with MIA by his side, waving at fans and signing kids t-shirts with his name. He hops into the ring and stretches waiting for his partner.
Romano: And here is a man who already holds a carte blanche title shot for any title he wants.
Taylor: He certainly is impressive and apparently from the future. Let’s see how the random draw treated him!
Jessie Love: And his partner, from Raleigh, North Carolina. He enters today at six foot three inches and two hundred sixty-three pounds, representing the ReVenants, “The Paragon of Sleaze” … KEITH WILLIAMS!
The arena is plunged into darkness as "When the Levee Breaks" by Led Zeppelin echoes out of the speakers, triggering the attention of those in attendance to the stage where dark blue lights have started to flash in rhythm to the music.
If it keeps on rainin', levee's goin' to break
When the levee breaks I'll have no place to stay
When the levee breaks I'll have no place to stay
As the tempo of the song picks up, it can barely be seen that someone has made their way out in the pitch black, planting themselves in the middle of the stage. The lights return and we're shown the back of Keith Williams as he's pointing at what's on his clothing. He's noticeably wearing a black denim vest with patches of bands on the front, the words "Paragon of Sleaze" printed on the back in a death metal/black metal stylized font, and directly below this is a giant mustache graphic.
Romano:Guillo is NOT happy about this. He looks like he wants to punch that moustache right off Keith’s face.
Taylor: Guillo and the ReVenants have been at each other’s throats on SmackTalker since Day 1.
Williams spins around, stroking his mustache and gleefully taking a look out at the crowd. He slowly saunters his way down the rampway to ringside, taking his time to taunt fans on either side of him. As he reaches the ring, Keith goes to enter by rolling under the bottom rope, but hesitates for a moment to thrust against it to the beat of the song, eventually getting to his feet and treating everyone with another round of mustache strokes for good measure. He mounts the turnbuckle nearest to him, hopping up to the middle rope and posing with his arms spread wide. As the music dies down, KW abandons his post and tosses his vest to a company stooge on the outside, taking to practicing his elbows in the corner before the match begins.
Romano: Well let’s see how these two get along.
Taylor: They’ll need to if they want to go far in this tourney.
The theme to Lethal Weapon plays as Roger Riggs sprints to the ring and rolls in.
Jessie Love: And the opponents! Entering first, from Los Angeles, California … at six foot five inches and one hundred ninety-five pounds, “The Lethal Weapon” ... ROGER RIGGS!
He raises his arms to the crowd and winks at the ladies in the crowd. Keith and Guillotina look at each other and shrug.
Taylor: Well, these two don’t seem intimidated by the movie star good looks of the lethal weapon!
Romano: They may not like each other but they clearly feel this isn’t a threat.
Guillotina and Williams change their attitude when they see the other opponent…
Jessie Love: And his partner, from Big Bear Lake, California. He is eight feet tall and … well … real damn heavy. Representing Champoon Wrestling … He is Big Bad Bear … TRIPLE B!
“The Bare Necessities” by Joe Hicks plays over the speakers as Triple B lumbers onto the stage on all fours before standing up on his hind legs. He removes his reading glasses and waves to the crowd as he walks to the ring. The ref tells him to just stay on the apron. He holds his arms up as if asking why before sighing and staying there.
Romano: IS … is it safe for us to be here?
Taylor: Triple B is as intelligent as anyone else here. We’re fine. Keith and Guillo may wanna worry.
Fired Up First Round Match
Guillotina and Keith Williams vs. Triple B and Roger Riggs
Steve Tyrell calls for the bell and Guillo and Riggs step forward. Riggs gets right in Guillo’s face and then unloads with a right hand. Guillo absorbs it and strikes back. They trade a few punches each before Riggs unleashes a kick to the gut. Guillo responds with a swift front kick to the chest. Riggs shrugs it off and hits a discus forearm. Guillo uses the momentum to spin and hit a sweep kick to the side of the knee. Riggs wobbles but stays on his feet. Guillo unleashes a crane kick and flows into a scorpion kick before hitting a roundhouse with authority. BBB cringes on the apron. Keith rolls his eyes and holds his hand out and wiggles it as if to say “so-so”. Guillo tells him to just watch. He pulls Riggs up and drops him with a DDT. Riggs rolls to his knees to shake out the cobwebs. Guillo tries a hook kick but Riggs grabs the leg and DDTs the foot to the mat then stomps his as he gets to his feet. He then grabs Guillo and torques the shoulder before locking in a standing triangle.
Romano: A lot of swift strikes early on here.
Taylor: Well Guillotina is a martial arts fighter and Riggs loves a good fistfight. They both know how to work the joints.
Guillo slowly works his way to his corner but instead of tagging in, Keith just pokes Riggs in the eye releasing the hold. Guillo turns and scolds him before turning back to Riggs and getting punched in the face. He holds his jaw before intercepting the next haymaker. He twists the arm down and then drops his elbow onto the forearm of Riggs before flipping him to the mat with an arm wringer. As Guillo sets up for the Kobra Keith tags himself in. He then shoos Guillotina out of the ring who only leaves because the ref is at 4. Keith strokes his moustache and then moves to Riggs.
Taylor:Well these two do not like each other.
Romano: No but they can still win, just … isolate the human from the bear.
As Keith looks over at Triple B and mocks him, the bear seems to take offense and makes a snapping motion as if to say, “Well I never”. Suddenly … SUDDEN AMBUSH! Riggs springs to life and kips up then leaps onto Keith’s back and begins to choke him out with a rear naked choke. Keith flails around and points to his throat begging the ref to count for an illegal hold. The ref checks and sure enough it is a choke and he counts. On four, Riggs releases Keith but spins him into a savage elbow shot to the side of the head. Guillo puts his head in his hand and shakes it in disgust. Riggs locks the left leg in a knee bar. Williams squirms to the ropes.
Romano: Williams at least is a seasoned vet and knows his location in the ring.
Riggs releases the hold. He stalks Keith as he stands up and shakes out his leg. Riggs charges for the Extreme Prejudice but Keith just sidesteps and hits a drop toe hold onto the ropes. Riggs springs back holding his throat and into a German Suplex. Williams bridges.
ONE!
Kickout by Riggs at one. Williams doesn’t seem bothered. He locks in a fujiwara arm bar. Riggs again squirms with all his might and makes it to the ropes. Keith picks him up and gets him in a fireman’s carry. He then begins to spin.
Taylor: The classic airplane spin from the Paragon of Sleaze!
Romano: Won’t that affect Keith’s ring awareness too?
Keith spins for a bit before stumbling and hitting a snap suplex. He stands up dizzy and looks all the way across at the opposite corner … where he sees Guillo jumping up and down and pointing. Keith blows him a kiss before he realizes what this means. His face goes from smirk to shock as the ref signals a tag has been made. Keith turns just in time for a massive meat hook of a clothesline from the Big Bad Bear. The bear strikes a karate stance … somehow … Keith rolls to his feet dizzy from his spin and the strike. He looks at Triple B and swallows hard. He then gyrates to confuse the bear. And … it works?
Romano:Triple B IS as smart as a human so naturally … he is as disgusted as all of us.
Keith seizes the moment to hit a flurry of knife-edge chops and a European uppercut. BBB just looks at him and tilts his head in confusion. He leans forward and points a claw at his jaw. He is offering a free shot. Keith kisses him. BBB sticks his tongue out in revulsion allowing Keith to drop an elbow on the crown of his head causing the bear to bite his own tongue. Keith kicks him in the gut as he holds his muzzle with his paws. He scales the ropes and drops a double axe handle. This has succeeded! In making the bear angry. BBB ROARS at Keith who steps back a bit and wipes spittle from his moustache. The bear unloads on him with a karate kick and then a big claw attack to the chest. Williams crawls to the corner but the bear splashes him. He yelps in agony as BBB stands up and somehow drags him away from the corner, despite not having thumbs.
Taylor: I never knew I wanted to see a bear wrestle but I guess I did.
Romano: Bears ARE natural wrestlers but he seems to be employing actual technique doesn’t he?
Guillo whistles at the bear to distract him and Williams kips up and hits the Queen Anne’s Revenge! The bear stumbles a bit but doesn’t go down to the mighty discus elbow. Keith lunges in looking for the K-DRIVER … but uh … the bear doesn’t budge. The bear is now getting a comfy hug from Keith trying to lift him and he looks out at the crowd and shrugs. He also locks in a bear hug. Keith SCREAMS in agony as the Bear tries to get him to submit. When Keith grabs the ropes Trips releases him and hits a spinning bear fist. Keith stumbles to the ropes. Guillo cheers him on .. .right up until Keith slaps him on the chest and holds the ropes for him.
Taylor: Well that’s one way out.
Guillo charges the bear and unleashes a kick flurry that actually stumbles the bear. Triple B however sends a claw strike to the gut and sets for the Bear Bomb. However Guillo goes over him and lands behind him and sends a flurry of elbow strikes to the spine. Triple B roars in pain and spine. He seems real mad and charges for the Bear Claw. Guillo does a split and the Bear ends up punching Riggs in the face sending him to the floor. The ref signals a tag. Guillotina rolls under the bear’s legs and kicks him in the back of both knees. The bear falls to all fours. Guillo hits the 540 roundhouse kick to the bear’s backside! This stands him up again. He is about to point at MIA but instead calls Keith over. Keith charges in and as the ref tries to stop him Guillo intervenes. He explains he is about to do a double team move! But this distraction lets Keith punt the bear in his beary balls.
Romano:OOOOH That has to hurt.
Taylor:Triple B is hobbling on 2 legs leaning on the ropes.
Guillo lunges forward and grabs a hind leg. Keith also does and they unison dump the bear over the ropes where all 800+ pounds lands on top of Roger Riggs. Triple B is still unable to move holding his bear bits and Riggs is smooshed underneath him. Guillo tells the ref to count!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
FOUR!
FIVE!
The bear begins to stir.
SIX!
SEVEN!
He stands up and sees the ref!
EIGHT!
He rolls under the ropes and into the ring!
… NINE!
TEN!
Triple B is very confused as the ref calls for the bell.
DING DING DING!
Jessie Love: Your winners by count out … Guillotina and Keith Williams!
Romano: Oh that’s right the punch that send Riggs outside was a tag since .. you know he didn’t make a fist.
Taylor: Well what a turn of events!
Romano: With that... half of the first round is gone!
Taylor: Still no sign of that mystery opponent, but what a first round so far.
Romano: Can Seth and Maverick actually keep working together? Or will Garcia and the outsider Combatiente take advantage of their past?
Taylor: Fox and Deco also put on quite a show against their opponents... but Guillotina and Keith showed that they are pulling out the stops, too, to eliminate a literal bear!
Romano: And I'm sure Deco is just chomping at the bit to get her hands on Williams and Guillotina! We'll find out later. But first... more of round one, coming up next!
