NLW Hostile Intent | Saturday, May 29th, 2021 | LIVE
May 24, 2021 19:01:49 GMT -5
Mongo the Destroyer and Hyperion like this
Post by Kris on May 24, 2021 19:01:49 GMT -5
Next Level Wrestling Presents
HOSTILE INTENT
LIVE from the Avron B Fogelman Arena in New Orleans, Louisiana
May 29th, 2021
As 'Walk With Me In Hell' blares over the loudspeakers, crimson spotlights swirl over the assembled crowd as they hit their feet for the beginning of Hostile Intent, their cheers rivaling the sound system! The camera pans over the fans and their signs in support of different members of the roster, the air electric within the bounds of the arena as the feed transitions to the announce position where Dan Simmons and Tommy West are both dressed to the nines--and they don't take long in addressing the camera.
Dan Simmons: Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, and everyone else in between... welcome to Hostile Intent! This is Deep South Dan Simmons, and joining me tonight is my partner, Tommy West--and we've got one Hell of a show for you folks tonight. Not only are both of our champions defending their titles, but the fate of NLW itself hangs in the balance!
Tommy West: That sounds dramatic of you to say, Dan, but considering how BB Gunn and Joe Blow are facing for control of NLW, I have to agree with you. I, for one, hope our GM comes out on top because who knows what's gonna happen if Joe gets that spot!
Dan Simmons: I don't wanna even consider it, so let's run down the rest of the card, shall we? Because we're starting off with a bang with no disqualification action as James Edgebrook takes on Wellington Dunne!
Tommy West: And after that, we've got a rematch between Scott Hampton and Savannah Sunshine with Jason Long as the special guest referee. Considering how Scott's turned over a new leaf in the worst of ways, there's no way this volatile combination isn't going to explode!
Dan Simmons: Speaking of volatile, the King of the Mountain match for David Goon's Southern States--
Tommy West: You mean South Bronx.
Dan Simmons: Right, the South Bronx Championship is crammed to the gills with hungry competitors wanting to take the title for themselves. From a former champion in Nathan Parker to relative newcomers SHIVANI and Graham Baker--to the upset king himself in El Rey and the perpetual thorn in the Goons' collective side that is Beau Traywick. With all of that jam-packed into one match... it's too much to be contained!
Tommy West: In contrast, our main event for the NLW Heavyweight Championship will happen within the confines of a steel cage as Eli Dresden defends her title against StormCrow Tommy Kelly!
Dan Simmons: With all of this chaos on the card, who knows how things will go!
Tommy West: Well we both know how things will start off, at least--so let's go to the ring to see who comes out on top between Wellington Dunne and James Edgebrook!
As "Seal the Deal" by Volbeat hits the speakers, Wellington walks out onto the stage with his arms held up, looking for cheers from the crowd, but instead gets hit with boos and jeers only. The heel seems to lap it up though, flexing on stage before making his way towards the ring.
Tommy West: Fans of NLW here are not too happy to see Dunne kicking us off it seems, but the look on Dunne's face says otherwise.
Dan Simmons: Hate it or love it, any press is good attention it seems and for Wellington Dunne he is loving this!
Despite the fans heckling and cussing, Dunne makes his way into the ring to soak in the atmosphere and let the fans continue their noise.
"The Final Countdown" hits the speakers and strutting his stuff to the metal-cover is the one and only James Edgebrook. The fans are not too thrilled to see him either, as his presence is met with even more boos. The new face of NLW doesn't let it get him down, posing before quickly making his way to the ring.
Dan Simmons: Edgebrook carries himself in a way I haven't seen from too many new faces here. His confidence, his poise, he's a guy with ambition and-
Tommy West: A big meaty boot to the head it looks like!
Edgebrook has slid into the ring but without wasting time Dunne is already stomping him into the mat without a second's warning!
MATCH ONE
NO DISQUALIFICATION MATCH
Wellington Dunne vs James Edgebrook
As the fight kicks off Dunne quickly takes control and works his size advantage however he can, from heavy stomps to dropping elbows on the downed Edgebrook. He pulls him to his feet and ends an Irish Whip with a hard shoulder to the chest, dropping Edgebrook in a breath-less heap.
Tommy West: The size difference here is vast, Dunne is more than one hundred pounds heavier and seems to know his way around a ring more than Edgebrook.
Dunne continues to dominate the match, hitting hip-toss after shoulder slam onto Edgebrook to wear him down. The boo's from the fans only seem to encourage Dunne to push on more, but it also helps to ignite Edgebrook. Getting up from the mat he remembers the stat of the match he's in and lands a nasty eye poke on Dunne to send him staggering to the ropes, and follows it with a blindsided front dropkick to the chin of Wellington Dunne. Dropping to one knee, Dunne tried to regain his vision but too late as Edgebrook has hit the ropes running and comes back at him with a knee to the temple, dropping Dunne.
Dan Simmons: And that seems to have got the fans going! The cheers are now coming in from all sides.
Tommy West: Either they have James Edgebrook as favourite, or Wellington Dunne has done a poor job of winning them over.
With Dunne down, Edgebrook lands a couple of sneaky stomps in retaliation for earlier before hopping out of the ring. He rummages under the apron and pulls out a steel chair before sliding back in. Dunne makes his way to the corner to climb up but Edgebrook jabs him into the spine a couple times with the chair and softens him up to spin him around. Motioning the crowd to join in the cheers, Edgebrook takes a big swing at the head of Dunne but the veteran ducks out of the way leaving nothing but cushion for Egdebrook. Turning around too slow, Dunne lands a hard right punch through the chair to the face of Edgebrook, sending him flying into the corner.
Dan Simmons: James Edgebrook is a die hard fan of the sport, an avid broadcaster and interviewer, and a true company man... but he should leave the actual wrestling to the stars.
Tommy West: I don't know Dan, but a guy with little experience he's not been so bad. He's got guts, that's for sure.
Dan Simmons: Guts that Wellington Dunne is looking to disembowel it seems.
Using the chair like a battering ram, Dunne drives it into the stomach of Edgebrook over and over to drop the announcer down to the floor. Dunne follows it up with a couple of chair shots to the back before pulling Edgebrook up to his feet and across his shoulders. Setting Edgebrook up into a fireman's carry it looks like Dunne is looking to finish this one early, but Edgebrook wriggles free before Dunne can hit his "Wild Ride" neckbreaker. Dropping behind Dunne, Edgebrook easily takes out his left knee with a hard toe kick to the back of the knee and a nice spinning heel kick to drop Dunne onto his hands. Running to the ropes and rebounding, Edgebrook nails a quick DDT right down onto the dropped steel chair and leaves both men on the mat looking for air.
Tommy West: Color me impressed here Dan, but James Edgebrook is really giving Dunne a run for his money. Dunne has years of experience, over a hundred pounds in weight and nearly a foot in height to his advantage... but Edgebrook is keeping him down!
First back up is Edgebrook, but only to grab the ropes and catch his breath. Dunne rolls over and gets up slowly, but with the chair in his hands still, a slight trickle of blood following that DDT oozing. In a rage he runs to swing it at Edgebrook but it's ducked. Again he spins and charges but the meathead can't seem to match the speed of Edgebrook. Backed into a corner Dunne charges forward but is met with a great boot to the face, buying Edgebrook time. Not sure where to go and with Dunne holding his nose Edgebrook decides to quickly scale the ropes and test his high-flying skills but Dunne forecasts this and one quick bounce on the ropes drops Edgebrook right down on the crown jewels. Grabbing his legs, Dunne bounces Edgebrook up and down on the ropes, crushing him as he does. The referee yells to stop, but it cannot be enforced so Dunne wears down his opponent with a sick smile on his face.
Dan Simmons: I hope Edgebrook didn't have big plans following this tonight. He might not, er... be able to-
Tommy West: Leave the wise cracks to me Dan. No need to split hairs over this ball-busting that's going on.
With Edgebrook sitting on the top rope Dunne gleefully grabs the chair and is ready to pound out the remaining life from Edgebrook's body, swinging it overhead to smash Edgebrook in the face... but he catches it! James Edgebrook catches the chair, and swings a hard kick over the rope to the face of Dunne. Both men are playing tug of war with the chair now it seems, but Dunne gets the upper hand and just nails Edgebrook into the head! Dazed and almost KO'd, Dunne tosses the chair behind him and goes in for the kill on Edgebrook. Climbing the ropes, Dunne lines up Edgebrook for a superplex, but the Johnstown native still has one leg around the ropes. Dunne tries again but to no success, and angrily tries once more only to receive a knee to the face for his troubles. Edgebrook lashes out with fists and punches to the clunky head of Dunne, but one more knee to the nose drops Dunne to the mat before him. Lining it up, Edgebrook looks around the arena for some luck, before grabbing Dunne by the head and leaping over him. Managing to turn Dunne with him, Edgebrook lands hard on his back on the mat but not before he nails Dunne with a solid double-knee jawbreaker too!
Dan Simmons: And that is what James Edgebrook refers to as his "Draw2!" A huge jawbreaker to knock out the opponent, but it looks like his inexperience also cost him here.
Tommy West: Edgebrook did NOT land that properly, it looked like he took the whole weight of Dunne down on top of him. I think Edgebrook just accidentally powerbombed himself!
Both men are down, but only Edgebrook is stirring as he holds his lower back, grimacing in agony. Dunne looks to be in a slumber, breathing hard sprawled out on the mat. The referee is checking on them but there is no count out and no disqualifications! It's only a matter of who moves first!
Tommy West: This is close Da, real close. Either men could pin the other here, but something tells me these two are not finished.
Dan Simmons: Edgebrook looks exhausted, and Dunne looks like he's seeing stars!
After a moment both men begin to stir, rolling away from each other. The fans in the audience are yelling and cheering, but not for their favourite... for the chair that now lies in the middle of the two men. As both Edgebrook and Dunne slowly begin to rise, both men see the weapon before then and leap for it... but Dunne gets there first! Edgebrook rolls away to evade and get to his feet but is met with a very hard whack to the top of the head for his efforts! Down goes Edgebrook! Tossing the chair aside they go for the first cover of the match!
One!
Two!
Three!
[WINNER: Wellington Dunne via pinfall @ 16.42]
Dan Simmons: There goes the bell and the victory! Against the odds, ignoring the crowd and on the biggest stage we've put on this year, Dunne gets the win.
Tommy West: A big fight for these two men but it sounds like Edgebrook is only getting started here in NLW! And I am looking forward to more of what we just saw. Maybe a little less ball-busting next time though!
The speakers let out the beginning synth beats of "Kingslayer" by Bring Me The Horizon and BABYMETAL erupts through the PA System as the lights shine a purple hue around the arena, the fans within the arena rain down with cheers with the lights shining down now with a purple hue and the one singular white spotlight continuing to shine down onto the entrance curtain. Soon, the entrance curtain pulls back, and out steps Jason Long- a smile on his face as he soaks in that crowd reaction.
"Hi, are you looking for the other side?
Feel like nothing ever seems quite right?
Are you circling the drain pipe, getting off on pain like
You're corrupted?
I need to know where your loyalties lie
Tell me, are you gonna bark or bite?
Do you really want to twist the knife
In the belly of the monster?"
Jason looks out to the crowd, keeping that smile on his face as he stands at the top of the ramp with his arms stretched out wide, soaking in all of the cheers that rain down onto him. Flames shoot up each side of The King as raises his leg and slam his foot down to the metal floor, setting off the large explosion of pyrotechnics behind him and allowing the crowd to enjoy the view. Jason makes his way down the ramp, hitting the hands of every fan that reach out to him, as he looks into the ring and sees his opponent- a smile growing on his face as he touches down at ringside and circles around the ring, sliding across the ring apron on his right knee before turning his body and looking out to the crowd. Jason stands up on the ring apron, leaning back against the ropes and keeping his right arm along the top rope as he points out to the crowd and hastily makes his way into the ring and into the closest corner to him where he leaps onto the second rope.
Dan Simmons: Well this next match could be...tense.
Tommy West: Tense? Understatement of the year!
"Kingslayer
Destroying castles in the sky
Kingslayer
Forevermore the apple of my eye
I'd sacrifice my life to find you
Angel of the flame
Kingslayer
Come and collect us from the night"
Dan Simmons: Jason Long is here to referee this next match folks, and if you don't know why? Well quite simply, this match is between his current partner and his former mentor, a match that was demanded because in recent weeks, Scott Hampton has turned his back on these people, he's gone out to try and do some serious, permenant damage to them!
Jason places his left foot on the top rope as he stretches his arms out once again, letting out a loud "YEAH!" to the crowd as he brings his arms down and slips out of his black leather jacket to reveal his referee's shirt, throwing it down to the ringside crew and climbing up to the top rope before doing a backflip down to the mat where he nails the perfect landing.
The beginning notes of "I Just Can't Wait To Be King" by Suburban Legends begins to play throughout the arena. Bright and colorful spotlights swirl around the arena and the fans as they get hyped up at the familiar music. The figure at the top of the ramp faces away from the crowd, a single white spotlight showing the silhouette as the woman taps one of her feet along to the beat. As soon as the first verse rolls around, she's spinning around to face the ring. Soaking in the cheers of the fans, a bright smile on her lips as she runs to the right side of the ramp, hyping the fans up even more. Repeating the same actions as she races over to the left side of the ramp.
I'm gonna be a mighty king
So enemies beware
I've never seen a king of beasts
With quite so little hair
I'm gonna be the main event
Like no king was before
Dan Simmons: First out is Savannah Sunshine, quite possibly the happiest person I've ever met.
Tommy West: It puts me on edge.
Dan Simmons: You're always on edge.
Heading back to her spot at the top of the ramp, Savannah makes her way towards the ring. She's got a bright grin on her face and she heads over to slap hands with the fans. Even giving some of them candy from her jacket pockets. A lollipop of her own hanging from her lips. Tongue stained blue from the sucker as she approaches the ring finally. Using the middle rope for leverage, she pulls herself onto the apron, sliding right beneath the bottom rope as if she were swimming.
I'm brushing up on looking down
And working on my roar
Thus far a rather uninspiring thing
Oh, I just can't wait to be king
As soon as she reaches the center of the ring, she rolls over onto her back. Staring up at the lights, she begins making imaginary snow angels, before quickly kipping up to her feet. A quick two-finger salute tossed out towards the fans. The grin on her face is insatiable and she's excited to be here. She wiggles around slightly, dancing around as her music slowly fades out. Moving to one corner of the ring as she hums softly.
The lights within the building turn to shades of pink, purple and blue as "Devil Trigger" plays through the speakers, Scott Hampton enters through the curtain with Rachel by his side as they both make their way to the ring. Rachel enters the ring by way of going under the middle and bottom ropes whilst Scott leaps over the top rope and runs to the nearest corner by him, leaping onto the second rope and makes an attempt to cheer the crowd on which works successfully. He leaps down and stands in the corner, staring down at his opponent and awaiting for the bell to ring.
MATCH TWO
SPECIAL GUEST REFEREE: JASON LONG
Scott Hampton vs Savannah Sunshine
Jason Long calls for the bell to start the match and the crows actually quietens, they’re hushed because the level of tension between these three people is so high it’s almost uncomfortable. Hampton is staring a hole through Hampton, his eyes full of contempt for his former mentor. He slowly turns his head to his opponent, Savannah Sunshine, who despite her normally cheery disposition looks ready to get some serious revenge on Hampton. Hampton slowly grins a sinister grin at her, he knows he’s under her skin, quite rightly after his attempt to re-injure her, likely with the intention of ending her career, purely to spite his mentor. This smile is all Sunshine needed to attack, and she runs at the man from Kildare, she comes at him with a variety of kicks that backs him into the corner. The Queen of Candyland attempts to whip him to the opposite corner but Hampton reverses and comes charging in with a side elbow which finds its mark. Hampton looks overly impressed with himself and can’t help but give a look to Jason Long, who doesn’t rise to it.
Dan Simmons: Scott Hampton is trying to goad Long every chance he gets, you do wonder if that may be an issue for him down the stretch.
Hampton brings her out from the corner and lifts her up for a suplex, Sunshine drops behind and grabs him in a full nelson, and hits a full nelson bomb! She doesn’t go for the cover however, instead getting to her feet and hitting Hampton with an Asai moonsault, this time making the cover. 1…..2…easy kick out from Hampton.
Tommy West: I wasn’t sure if he would call it fairly but that was a steady count from Long right there. Then again, this is only three minutes into the match.
Sunshine can’t hear Tommy’s sarcasm as she’s busy keeping the pressure on her opponent. She brings him back to his feet and whips him to the ropes, looking for a clothesline which Hampton ducks, he comes back and blasts her with a diving European uppercut, now its his turn to keep the offence up, dragging her up and slamming her head on the turnbuckle before mounting the second turnbuckle, and wailing on her with right hands which of course prompts a count from special referee Jason Long. Long doesn’t get too far into his count before Hampton drops down and tells him to back off, Long doesn’t rise once more, instead pointing knowingly at the striped referee shirt he’s wearing.
Dan Simmons: I get the feeling that this could boil over very soon, and very quickly.
Hampton attempts an Irish whip to the opposite corner as he returns his focus on Sunshine, but she reverses, however Hampton uses the momentum to run up and onto the turnbuckle, Sunshine is starting to follow but is caught completely by surprise as Hampton dives back at her, hitting a coffin drop!
Tommy West: Moshpit out of absolutely nowhere!
Hampton covers.
1….2…..No! Kick out! Jason Long once again seems to be keeping a steady count, but Hampton doesn’t agree and tells him to pick up the pace. Seemingly not done with trying to aggravate his former mentor, he grabs Sunshine by the back of her hair and launches her over the top rope to a chorus of boos from the crowd. He ignores them, instead glaring and smirking at Long before exiting the ring himself. He stalks Sunshine as she gets back to her feet with support from the ring apron, and he rewards her by slamming her head into the apron, before throwing her into the base of the announce desk having turned them both a hundred and eight degrees. He again glares at Long, who to his credit has done nothing but the job, and is administering a ten count, a ten count that Hampton breaks by rolling in and out of the ring. He approaches Savannah and she throws a few right hands into his gut, but he clubs her back a couple times and quickly adds an axe handle to subdue her once more. He glances around for his next move, and decides to drag Sunshine to her feet and place her on his shoulder, he starts picking up momentum towards the ring post, but she slips behind and pushes him into it, Hampton’s head bounces off the post!
Dan Simmons: That could be the opportunity Sunshine needs to get back in this!
It’s now Savannah’s turn to roll in and out of the ring to break the count, which had got to seven. She quickly gets after Hampton, repaying the favour of slamming his head into the apron before rolling him into the ring. She climbs up to be on the ring apron and watches as Hampton starts to stagger to his feet, and she soars back into the ring with a springboard DDT! She makes the cover. 1….2….No! Hampton rolls the shoulder up!
Tommy West: That count felt faster, it really did seem faster!
Dan Simmons: No it wasn’t, stop it.
Sunshine certainly didn’t feel like it was faster, in fact she even gave Long a look as if to say “hurry it up”. She get’s Hampton back to his feet and looks for a suplex, but Hampton drops behind and hits a reverse DDT to halt her momentum. He isn’t exactly getting straight back on the offensive himself, however, and rolls to the corner to compose himself. He watches Sunshine get back to her feet and looks for a pump knee strike, but she sidesteps him and doubles him over with a boot to the gut, quickly hooking him up and hitting a twisting brainbuster!
Dan Simmons: Sunshine dodged Lights Out and countered with Brainfreeze!
She covers. 1…….2…….NO! Shoulder up from Hampton once again. Sunshine sighs out loud, starting to become a little frustrated, but she shakes her head and gets back to the task at hand. She gets back to her feet and stalks a very war weary Hampton, and she raises an arm to the crowd, perhaps suggesting that she’s going to hit the Shiniest Rainbow, Hampton staggers to his feet but senses danger, and drops back to the mat and rolls out of the ring, much to the crowd’s displeasure. He holds his neck and paces around the outside of the ring, his frustration obvious. In fact, he’s so frustrated that he goes around and collects a steel chair by the announce desk.
Tommy West: I think Hampton is done with this match now, he doesn’t look interested in fighting fair any more.
Sunshine keeps her distance as Hampton gets back in the ring, chair in his hands, but even less surprisingly Jason Long stands in his way and places his hands on the chair. He remind Scott that he’s in charge, he’s the referee, and he was going to be damned if he let him so obviously get himself disqualified. Hampton stares through his former mentor, as if he was ignoring his very existence. Slowly though, his expression mellowed, and he nodded at Long, and after a sigh he even went so far as to say that Long was right, and he relinquished the chair to Jason.
Dan Simmons: Well, maybe there’s still some soul left in Scott Hampton, oh come on!
Why was Simmons suddenly exasperated? Because as Long leaned through the second rope, instructing a ringside staff member to collect the chair from him, Hampton approached Sunshine, who was expecting an attack, but not a poke to the eye, which caused her to recoil and hold her face, and Hampton quickly lifted her onto his shoulders hitting a fireman’s carry into a roundhouse kick.
Dan Simmons: Look at him, he knew Long would have his back turned! This was all a set up so he could cheap shot his way into Vae Victis!
He makes the cover just as Long has finally got rid of the chair, Long stares at the scene and knows something is up, but Hampton just screams at him to “do his job and make the damn count”.
Tommy West: Come on Long, you heard him, do your job! Do your damn job like you said you would!
Reluctantly, Long slides into position, 1……………2………………….3!
[Winner: Scott Hampton via Vae Victis at 12:44]
Hampton rolls away with his hands aloft as the bell rings, he makes a swift exit out of the ring, he knows damn well what he’s done and what Long will think about it when he realises. He backs up towards the entranceway, laughing at Long, pointing at his head to indicate how he’s outsmarted his former mentor, a grin wider than a Cheshire cat’s covers his face as he leaves Long to check on Savannah Sunshine.
The camera cuts to the office of BB Gunn. While most of the vandalization perpetrated by Joe Blow previously has been cleared up, there's still a few things out of place. BB Gun himself is dressed to compete, simple black sweatpants paired with a NLW t-shirt. Standing in front of his desk, a nod is given to the camera.
BB Gunn: Ladies and gentlemen, tonight has been one of action and violence, just as one would expect from a show named Hostile Intent... and here in a moment, I will be doing something I never imagined I would be doing in going out to the ring not as GM, but as a wrestler. But before we get to that, I think it's time to announce something we've got planned for July. A lot of speculation has been going around for what we'll be doing for it, and I don't blame them for speculating because tonight, I'm proud to announce that we'll be making a special Global Event Show aligning with The XHF Network's Night of Champions event. An event we'll have taking place the night beforehand called XHF and NLW Presents: Eve of Champions! For us to have such an event, it's something I could have never imagined NLW to be having when we first began.
He flashes a brief, strained smile before he continues.
BB Gunn: Then again, since NLW opened, we have done a lot that I never imagined, haven't we? In the months we have been around, we've seen more than our fair share of determined competitors come through these doors to make a name for themselves. From Maze or The Prick as he was once known as briefly to Eli Dresden, from Frank Dylan James to David Goon, from Leon Chant to Felix who will soon be making his debut, and for so many more, every single competitor has wanted one thing from NLW.
Gunn leans in toward the camera to emphasize what he says next.
BB Gunn: They wanted the opportunity to make history.
He nods.
BB Gunn: Now I know that, right now, my future as the General Manager of NLW is--up in the air, let's say. That does nothing to change this announcement. At our next pay-per-view event, the main event will not be for the NLW Heavyweight Championship. Instead, the contendership for that very title will be defended as the final round of something that I hope will become an annual tradition. It's an ambitious idea, I know, one that will test eight members of our roster like nothing else. An idea inspired by the Japanese roots of professional wrestling, an institution... but given our own special little twist. I could go on, but it is easily summed up by two simple characters.
A hand raises, his pointer finger and middle fingers rising to count to two as he says the two syllables.
BB Gunn: G1.
The smile that graces Gunn's lips is more natural, sincere.
BB Gunn: At Ascendancy XVI, the groups will be announced--and at Ascendancy XVII, it will begin. More information about the tournament will be made available online for everyone as well--
Something off-camera catches the GM's attention, his gaze flickering away from the camera's lens momentarily before his expression grows serious.
BB Gunn: And now, if you'll excuse me... I have a match to wrestle. Wish me luck, everyone.
And with that, Gunn walks out of frame before the camera cuts to ringside.
The silence that usually heralds the emergence of Joe Blow is interrupted not by music, but the jeering of the fans--and for once? Instead of hobbling out like he’s too drunk to keep a vertical base, Joe’s looking positively invigorated, taunting the fans as he makes his way down to the ring. He’s already shouting commands at nonplussed ringside staff, as a matter of fact, acting all the world like he’s already in charge. Rolling into the ring under the bottom rope, his shouting commands only carries on… even if his demands are being pointedly ignored.
Dan Simmons: And up next is the match with the potential for the biggest repercussions for NLW as a whole as BB Gunn takes on Joe Blow with the GM’s position on the line!
Tommy West: Not only does Joe have the chance to take the reins of NLW from BB, but if BB loses? He will also have to serve as Joe’s personal assistant. However, if BB wins… then Joe has to fall in line!
‘Obey’ hits the sound system and, in a sharp contrast to the man who emerged first? The fans surging to their feet in support of the undisputed underdog of this match, BB Gunn emerging from behind the curtain with a purposeful stride. It’s clear that the current GM is well aware of what he’s walking into, but he’s not backing down. He’s so focused, in fact, that while he slaps the hands of the fans here and there, his gaze never once leaves Joe Blow. Climbing the ring steps, Gunn steps into the ring, his apprehension obvious… but so is his determination.
Dan Simmons: I’m gonna be honest. I don’t know if the risk is worth the reward here, Tommy, but there’s no backing out now.
Tommy West: I agree wholeheartedly with you, Dan. We’ve just got to hope that it pays off--not just for Gunn’s sake, but our own as well.
MATCH THREE
IF BB GUNN WINS, JOE BLOW FALLS IN LINE. IF BLOW WINS, BLOW IS GENERAL MANAGER FOR TWO MONTHS AND BB GUNN IS HIS P.A.
Joe Blow vs BB Gunn
The bell rings, and once the referee moves out of the line of fire? Joe Blow's immediately pointing at BB Gunn, demanding that the referee count the three and crown him the winner like he's got the authority to do so! As Gunn gives the crowd his best look of 'Really?', the referee is shaking his head after the moment's pause of surprise, flatly telling Blow no--and that sets off a fresh tirade, the Hobo's ranting only ramping up as he turns to fully face the referee. At first, it seems as if Gunn is going to intervene on his referee's behalf... but then a realization clearly dawns, the GM slowly and sneakily tip-toeing his way behind the ranting Blow. A moment's sizing up and Gunn surges forward, his arm hooking between Blow's legs to drag him into a roll-up that earns cheers from the audience!
Dan Simmons: Can it be over that quickly?!
Tommy West: Quick, ref--get the count!
One...!
Two...!
Th--no! Blow kicks out, the cheers deflating a little. Both men scramble to their feet, reaching a vertical base at around the same time. Unfortunately for BB, Joe is the first to strike, a series of punches leading to Gunn being driven back into the corner. And once Gunn is cornered, Blow is latching on like a rabid weasel, blows raining down on his opponent. Punches, elbows, knees, feet--they're all being used without rhyme, but with plenty of reason as the crowd rains boos down upon Joe! The referee makes a couple attempts to verbally intervene, but ultimately he has no choice but to physically separate the two men, Blow spitting expletives as Gunn collapses to the mat. As the GM tries to shake out the cobwebs and get to his feet, an evil grin rises to the Hobo's lips as he shoves a hand down the front of his pants and has a rummage of his bits!
Dan Simmons: It looks like, in retaliation for Gunn trying to end things early, Blow is about to do the same!
Tommy West: How long has it been since Joe's even said the word soap much less--
Dan Simmons: LOOK OUT, BOSSMAN!
Withdrawing his hand from those dirty depths, Blow surges forward once BB is on his feet... but Gunn manages to dodge out of the way at the last minute, meaning it's only the top turnbuckle that feels the Stink Hand! Joe whirls around, a new flood of profanity leaving him until it gets cut off by a punch of BB's own! While it's not pretty, it's effective enough to force Blow to face the post he just smeared with--well, whatever was on his hand. It's BB's turn to grin as an evil idea of his own comes to mind. Tangling his hand in the knotted mass of Joe's hair, Gunn marches his opponent over to said turnbuckle before, with a surge of adrenaline, he's forcing Blow's face into the fabric, giving him a disgusting taste of his own medicine! Blow's arms flail dramatically as his nose is literally rubbed in what he's done, the fans cheering raucously!
Tommy West: What an ingenious move by our GM--turning the tables on the Hobo!
Dan Simmons: It serves Joe right!
Tommy West: That it does, but is the stench gonna be enough to do Blow in? He lives with it every day, after all. He's probably nose blind!
Eventually releasing his hold on Blow at the referee's insistence, the GM frantically wipes his hand on the leg of the sweatpants he's wearing as the Hobo slumps in the corner, turning his face to at least partly escape the turnbuckle-assisted Stink Face he just took. As Blow levers himself up away from the turnbuckle, the scowl on his face betrays how frustrated he is at the turn of events he's just endured... and as he looks over his shoulder, the look he gives Gunn is borderline murderous. Turning around, Joe stalks toward BB--and instead of backing down? The GM is meeting the Hobo in the middle of the ring and, when the latter swings on the former, BB is swinging back, the two men getting into a war of fists in the middle of the ring that has the crowd roaring at the fury that's been unleashed in both!
Dan Simmons: This has turned into a slugfest, and the fans are loving it!
Tommy West: I didn't know the boss man had it in him to keep up, but he's digging deep and matching Joe Blow--well, he's matching him blow for blow!
Gunn is indeed holding his own... or, at least, he is until instead of throwing a haymaker at his face? Blow is suckerpunching him in the stomach, driving all the air out of the GM's lungs before he rakes Gunn's eyes. As the referee scolds Joe, his attention is once again diverted away from BB long enough for the latter to recover before he laces his fingers together and catches Joe at the base of the skull with an axe handle that knocks him to the mat! Rolling Blow over, Gunn drops to a knee and drives a few more punches into the face of the man that has been a thorn in his side for months, taking out some of his frustration out until he's good and certain that Blow's been rattled but good! Rising to his feet, the GM points to the nearest top turnbuckle before he heads right on over and...
Dan Simmons: He isn't... no, he is! Ladies and gentlemen, General Manager BB Gunn is climbing to the top rope!
Tommy West: What is he doing?! The man trained for a few hours at Omega Academy, but surely he's not trained to be up there!
Trained or not, Gunn takes a deep breath before he leaps off the top turnbuckle, making an attempt at paying homage to Riley Richards with a Coupe de Grace... but Blow rolls toward the corner and out of harm's way! Managing to land on his feet, BB nearly collides with the referee, his hands coming out to lightly grasp the ref's shoulders to avoid the collision. Such means that the ref can't see Blow dropping to a knee so he can nail a low blow from behind, the Bell Ringer connecting before the Hobo is quickly transitioning to a schoolboy pin, his other hand hooking the GM's sweatpants and hanging on for dear life!
One...!
Two...!
Dan Simmons: No, not like this!
Three!
Tommy West: And Joe Blow's stolen it!
[Winner: "The Hobo" Joe Blow Via Bell Ringer at 08:31]
The crowd's jeering goes damn near nuclear as Joe surges to his feet, celebrating like he just won a million dollars--though considering the power he just gained, one can't entirely blame him. On the other hand, Gunn looks rightly furious... and as Blow demands that BB be the one to raise his hand in victory? That anger only grows.
Dan Simmons: Joe Blow is our new General Manager, everyone, and he's already doing everything he can to lord his new authority over BB Gunn.
Tommy West: Is it bad that I'm hoping that the bo--I mean, that BB just levels him?
Dan Simmons: Not in the slightest, but... well, I don't know what would happen to him if he did.
Tommy West: Neither do I, but I also don't know what's gonna happen to the rest of us. Our future has just grown uncertain, and all the more we can do is hold on as best we can.
As Joe continues to berate BB for not following orders, one can almost swear they can see BB's spirits break in how he slumps forward before he gets to his feet... and, with a dead expression? He does as he is bid. The boos continue raining down as Blow stands triumphant.
Dan Simmons: Folks, next up is the King of the Mountain match for the NLW Southern States-
Tommy West: South Bronx.
Dan Simmons: ...title. The rules? It's a reverse ladder match, the title starts here at ringside and the winner is the competitor that successfully connects it back up to the hook high above the ring.
The lights dim in the arena and all attention goes to the Jumbotron. The screen shows an empty room with just a stool under a swinging lightbulb. Footsteps are heard as an old man walks to the stool and sits down, pulling a harmonica from his shirt pocket. He begins to play a solo which quickly morphs in to The New South’s theme.
On the stage, the lights slowly come up and Beau Traywick strides out, he's on his own, but he's focused.
Dan Simmons: Here's the first man vying for the title, it's Beau Traywick, let's not forget this is the man who pinned the champion two weeks ago!
Tommy West: he sure did, but it won't win him the title tonight, different rules, different skills needed!
Traywick gets to the ring and waits for the next competitor out.
Silence strikes the arena as the beginning lyrics to "Vita Nova" by Halocene can be heard.
♫Waiting for our turn, will we watch the world burn♫
The second the music starts playing and the chanting begins, SHIVANI steps out onto the stage. The hood from SHIVANI's jacket covers most of her head, while her bright red hair lays on her shoulders. Flames burst into a pillar from each side of the stage.
♫VITA NOVA, VITA NOVA
VITA NOVA, VITA
NOVAAAAAAAA♫
SHIVANI makes her way down to the ring. Fans reach out to touch her or get a high-five, but she ignores everything as her focus is fixated on the ring.
♫World's forever seemingly so old
Words from scripture told now feel so cold
The love you know is bounded how it's sold
But you'd never know♫
When SHIVANI reaches ringside, she quickly slides into the ring and stands still. Slowly, she pulls her hood down and with her fingers, brushes her hair back. SHIVANI then makes her way to the middle of the ropes, facing directly to the crowd.
♫So together, but still so alone
Some now reaping sickness that they've sown
Suffocating from upon the throne
Sinking down below♫
Waiting for our turn, will we watch the world burn♫
The word 'burn' echoes for a second before the next lyrics begin. Once they start, pillars of fire burst from every turnbuckle. SHIVANI lifts both her arms up as if she was receiving praise.
♫Bury, bury the dead
Every life that comes next
Buries the dead♫
SHIVANI steps back from the ropes and awaits the next entrant.
Two massive thuds echo out through the arena, before an ear-piercing roar echoes through the speakers. Suddenly, the lights in the arena go down, and a massive spotlight illuminates the entrance ramp, where a figure stands with their back to the crowd. The harsh synthetic noise that opens 'Forever' plays out through the arena as the 'tron lights up with Graham Baker's titantron, and the Gaijin Kaiju swings around, throwing his hands out to a reception (or lack thereof.) Baker jaws shit at fans who are against him and bumps fists with those who support him as he makes his way to the ring, throwing himself up onto the apron and brushing his boots off.
Dan Simmons: This guy has come a simple remit since he joined NLW. Hurt people. He doesn't suffer fools, he just fights hard.
Tommy West: I've been hugely impressed with him, Simmo, but how does he cope with multiple targets tonight?
Baker slips over the top rope and into the ring, throwing his jacket off and leaving it on the ropes. He presses his fist into his chin with a cocky smile before falling into a corner and awaiting the next competitor.
The opening of the Big Sean’s “Wolves” hits the pa system and El Rey strolls onto the stage wearing the mask he stole off of the head of El Combatiente. He looks around soaking up there surroundings before ripping the mask off of his head and revealing the half painted face. He strolls down the ramp ignoring the outstretched hands of the fans until he reaches the ring. At ringside he leaps up onto the apron and then over the ropes and spins around in the ring with his arms outstretched. He spins around a couple times and then moves to the corner waiting for the match to begin.
Nathan Parker strides out to "Popular Monster"
Dan Simmons: Here's the former champion, who must desperately want that title back.
Parker approaches the ring and rolls in, staring the other four superstars down.
"Put 'em in their Place" plays, and out comes the champion, David Goon. Similar to Traywick, he comes in alone.
Tommy West: The goons have been such a dangerous outfit since they arrived, Simmo. Singles, tag, doesn't matter, they do serious damage!
Goon holds his South
MATCH FOUR
KING OF THE MOUNTAIN MATCH FOR THE NLW SOUTHERN STATES BRONX CHAMPIONSHIP
David Goon (c) vs Beau Traywick vs Nathan Parker vs SHIVANI vs El Rey vs Graham Baker
All six competitors watch as the referee holds the South
Dan Simmons: And here we go! Who will be king, or indeed queen on the mountain?
After some tense staring, the six go to war, after the way they all went at it two weeks’ ago, it was no surprise they were ready for another round with each other. What was more surprising was that David Goon and Beau Traywick didn’t start going at it, instead it was Graham Baker making an impression on David Goon, specifically with a combination of stiff rights and kicks, backing him into a corner. SHIVANI and Nathan Parker traded rights, headbutts and more rights, and El Rey was taking it to Beau Traywick with a fast number of kicks which backed him to the ropes, where El Rey decided to hit him with a lunging clothesline, sending them both over the top and sprawling to the floor.
Tommy West: El Rey the first one to take some forward thinking here, clearly wanted to be the first to get a ladder!
Dan Simmons: But all he’s done is take Beau out with him he’s not even-
As Simmons tries to scold West, El Rey is back on his feet and takes a couple steps towards a ladder, collapsing it and holding it in both hands, primed for attack.
Dan Simmons: I can admit to being wrong.
El Rey watches Traywick get to his feet and charges at him, looking to ram into him, but Traywick takes counterattacking measures, hitting a dropkick to the ladder which in turn smacks El Rey in his face, and he crumples to the floor. Meanwhile, SHIVANI and Nathan Parker are still going at it, and Goon and Baker’s fight has also spilled outside. Baker whips Goon towards the ring steps but Goon reverses and forces Baker shoulder first into the steps. In the ring, Parker delivers a short arm clothesline to SHIVANI, and keeps the attack up, dragging her back to her feet and delivering a delayed brainbuster. The former South
Dan Simmons: Is…is he drunk?
Tommy West: Would it really be much of a surprise?
Dan Simmons: I guess not.
Parker composes himself and turns to possibly go after a ladder, and he gets one…much quicker than he expected via David Goon throwing one that he had collected himself and slid in the ring with, unbeknownst to Parker. The ladder almost takes his head off and he rolls out of the ring, holding his face, a gash forming on the bridge of his nose. Goon looks at SHIVANI, who is getting back to her feet, ever the opportunist he sneaks up behind her, and hits a half nelson, with Shivani’s back landing on the ladder, causing her too to roll out of the ring in agony.
Dan Simmons: David Goon the first man to really take some consistent offense here, and using the ladder to do it! Look out!
Look out indeed, Beau Traywick was on the apron and took flight, cleaning the champion out with a springboard dropkick! With everybody else down, the New South member is the first one to make a run at the win, he set the ladder up and looked up, and his face dropped, realising this is no normal ladder match, he needed the title! Somewhat fortunately, and not in a case of lazy writing whatsoever, El Rey had collected the title from the timekeeper’s table having recovered from the ladder shot, and as a reward to Traywick for setting the ladder up, he drilled the title belt in the back of his head! El Rey doesn’t stand around to inspect his handywork either, and starts to climb the ladder towards the hook.
Tommy West: El Rey’s the first to have a go!
However he wasn’t having a go for very long, Graham Baker was back in yanked him back down, El Rey landed on his feet but Baker slammed his head into the ladder, making him drop the title and stagger back. Baker then followed with a single leg high knee to drop El Rey hard.
Dan Simmons: Kyoto Farewell from Graham Baker, and now he may be the man to have a go at getting the title up on that hook!
Dan Simmons’ thought was a fair one, but he was proved wrong as before he could collect the title SHIVANI had returned, armed with a second ladder, and she thrust the end into Baker’s gut, doubling him over, before impressively lifting the ladder above her head and dropping the whole thing on his back, which dropped him to the mat.
Dan Simmons: SHIVANI with an incredible show of strength to prove why she should be in this match!
Tommy West: Notice how nobody says anything bad about her? You know since she killed a guy.
SHIVANI grabs the title and turns her attention to the ladder, but in the corner of her eye she spots somebody, it’s Nathan Parker, and he’s back in the ring with a third ladder, and he launches it at SHIVANI’s head, lucky for whoever is insuring NLW’s wrestlers, she ducks and instead it crashes into the other ladder, knocking it over. However SHIVANI can’t block Parker’s next attack, a spear that folds her in half. Parker gets back to his feet, and looks at the carnage around him, all five of his opponants are on the mat, there are three ladders scattered around the ring and, unfortunately for him, Traywick, Goon and El Rey were all getting to their feet whilst he was stood with the title at his feet. Parker did the only thing he could to defend himself, he grabbed a fallen ladder and placed his head between two rungs. El Rey charged towards him and he started to spin, the ladder clocked El Rey in the side of the head and took him out! Traywick was next to try and attack, he met the same fate! David Goon stood off and watched, looking to time the spinning and perhaps attack Parker in between, however after seven or eight spins Nathan began to slow down.
Tommy West: Is…is he okay Simmo?
Dan Simmons: I’m…I’m not sure he is you know.
Parker was not only slowing down, but he was looking a little green, the alleged alcohol consumption before the match, combined with the spinning may have been a poorly thought out combination. Goon smirked, he could see what was happening and decided that patience was indeed a virtue, Parker slowed to a stop and he dropped the ladder on the floor, he was breathing heavily and wobbly on his feet once more, though this was more likely to be attributed to dizziness. Parker limply dropped to the mat and rolled out of the ring.
Dan Simmons: Where is he going?
Tommy West: My guess? That bin right over there.
The bin was by the timekeeper’s table and Tommy West was correct, Parker dropped to his knees and practically crawled the last couple feet to the bin, which he began to start cuddling as he vomited. Fortunately for those watching at home the camera cut back to the ring, where the champion, David Goon was laughing at Parker’s plight, but composed himself as he had now appeared to have a clear run at winning the match. Although Graham Baker was back up, so Goon clotheslined him over the top rope to take him out of the equation. He then reset the ladder that had been previously standing, another check around, now SHIVANI was getting back to her feet, so he grabbed his title belt and took her out with it, forcing her to roll out the ring.
Tommy West: This Goon is clearing house Simmo, it’s just him, that title, and that hook!
Goon gave another check, everybody was floored, so he did all that was left to do, climb the ladder and win this match. He takes a deep breath and begins to climb, one hand on the ladder, one on the title.
Dan Simmons: David Goon is going to win this match, he’s half way there…wait a minute, what’s he doing here?
“He” suddenly appears in the form of Waylon Kirk, the second half of The New South, and in an act of self preservation for his partner, he pushes the ladder over, meaning Goon crashes and burns. Kirk quickly grabs the title and kneels over the fallen Traywick, encouraging him to get up and take advantage of the situation, however before Beau can oblige him, Ricardo Goon has joined the party, and he does not look impressed.
Tommy West: Uhhhh, I don’t think Kirk completely thought this through.
Kirk straightens up having placed the title in a woozy Traywick’s hands, and slowly turns to see Ricardo glaring at him. The two charge at each other and brawl, hitting each other with stuff right after stiff right. The rivals spill out of the ring and continue to fight on the outside, but are soon interrupted by a troop of referees and security, who get in between them and drag them off, much to the dissatisfaction of the crowd, who had come to love the now semi regular Goons/New South brawls. Despite this, the important thing right now was still the match, and the two people possibly able to take advantage was SHIVANI and Graham Baker, who had both found their way back to their feet. Baker reset the fallen ladder and SHIVANI grabbed a second and rested it on a turnbuckle, seemingly looking to tidy the ring a little bit as she kicked the third ladder out of the ring. She could then turn her attention to Baker, who was aware enough to not blindly go after the belt with another opponent in play. She runs at him and looks for a step up enziguri, but he ducks the kick, meaning she lands on the mat with no offense, Baker pounces and hits a deadlift German suplex! Baker climbs back to his feet, and now he goes for the South
Dan Simmons: Right now partner all I can say is that it’s been carnage, and we’re still no closer to a winner!
Traywick rises and approaches the ladder, he takes a couple steps but is interrupted by El Rey, who is back up and clubbing on his back. The youngster puts him in position for, and connects with an electric chair drop. Despite an element of grogginess, he composes and grabs the title, and makes his way to the ladder, where he starts to ascend.
Tommy West: He’s going to do it Simmo! He’s going to win this thing.
CRACK.
Tommy West: Or maybe not.
Maybe not indeed Tommy, Nathan Parker, seemingly done with vomiting has returned with a chair, and he wrapped it around the back of El Rey, who doesn’t fall off, but slumps on the ladder, dropping the title. Parker collects the title for himself and starts to climb the other side of the ladder. He doesn’t get far though, as David Goon yanks him back down, Parker lands on his feet and promptly headbutts the champion, who staggers back to the second ladder which is leaning in the corner. Parker attempts to do some more damage, looking for his avalanche headbutt, but Goon sidesteps and Parker headbutts the ladder, he drops the title and stumbles towards Goon who hits him with a superkick, taking him down. His misery isn’t done there, either, as El Rey has climbed the ladder after his recovery, and decides that the best thing to do in order to get down is hit a 630 senton to the fallen Parker!
Dan Simmons: Jesus wept! He’s just hit the 630 from the top of the ladder!
Tommy West: Good job Parker’s already been sick, right?
Dan Simmons: …You’re disgusting. You may be correct, but you’re still disgusting.
El Rey has done some damage to himself in this process, and Goon recognises this, and picks him up and launches him over the top rope, out of sight, out of mind. However he turns and eats a shotgun dropkick from Beau Traywick, which sends him crashing through the ropes and to the outside with El Rey and Nathan Parker, who rolled out of the ring following the high impact from El Rey…much like an animal goes to find somewhere quiet to die. Traywick searches for and collects the South
Dan Simmons: We may need to get the medics out here!
Traywick quickly inspects the damage he’s just caused and seems pretty pleased with himself. He collects the title once more, but turns right into Graham Baker, who almost decapitates him with a running pumping bomber lariat!
Dan Simmons: Half Life Bomber!
Baker grabs the title, everybody is down, and he climbs the ladder.
Tommy West: He’s gotta hurry, Goon is getting back up Simmo!
Goon is getting back up but he’s hurt, and he crawls back into the ring and towards the ladder, but Baker is almost at the top.
Dan Simmons: He needs to hurry up!
Goon digs deep and gets to the ladder and grabs the foot of The Guillotine, but baker shakes his foot clear and boots him in the face, knocking him back. This allows him up another rung of the ladder, where he successfully wraps the title around the hook above the ring!
[Winner: Graham Baker at 25:15]
DING DING DING!
Marty Watts: here is your winner, and neeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeew Southern States Champion, Graham Baker!
Dan Simmons: Baker does it! David goon was so close at stopping him, but he was just making up too much ground there!
Banker straddles the top of the ladder, the title proudly sat above him as “Forever” by Travis Barker plays. Goon looks up in disbelief, and goes as far to punch the mat in his frustration.
The camera pans around the Avron B Fogelman Arena to showcase the excited fans, but suddenly the lights are cut across the arena. The screens come to life soon after.
"Two Warriors, entangled in a rivalry for the throne"
A number of clips are shown regarding Tommy Kelly and Eli Dresden in action, battling in previous matches and achieving their victories.
"One Challenger, seeking justice, revenge... and glory."
Tommy Kelly putting down a swath of his opponents, from his early matches with Joe Blow to his later wins against Big Bone and Rebecca Brookes. Ending with him being announced the #1 Contender for the NLW Heavyweight Championship.
"One Champion, defiant and determined to keep her position at the top."
Eli Dresden standing over her opponents, running a rampage through the NLW roster and having the fans cheer her on. Ending with her standing over Leon Chant, holding the NLW Heavyweight Championship up in the air.
"One steel cage, where only the strongest will prove victorious, only the best will find their escape."
Another quick clip of Tommy Kelly, face painted and primed for a fight. It cuts to Eli Dresden, a smirk on her face as she holds the belt over one shoulder, and her trident in her other hand.
"Hostile Intent... only one can be Champion."
One final shot of the two facing off after their agreement signing and handshake, both fan favorites splitting the crowd as they sign the deal for their match.
A number of clips are shown regarding Tommy Kelly and Eli Dresden in action, battling in previous matches and achieving their victories.
"One Challenger, seeking justice, revenge... and glory."
Tommy Kelly putting down a swath of his opponents, from his early matches with Joe Blow to his later wins against Big Bone and Rebecca Brookes. Ending with him being announced the #1 Contender for the NLW Heavyweight Championship.
"One Champion, defiant and determined to keep her position at the top."
Eli Dresden standing over her opponents, running a rampage through the NLW roster and having the fans cheer her on. Ending with her standing over Leon Chant, holding the NLW Heavyweight Championship up in the air.
"One steel cage, where only the strongest will prove victorious, only the best will find their escape."
Another quick clip of Tommy Kelly, face painted and primed for a fight. It cuts to Eli Dresden, a smirk on her face as she holds the belt over one shoulder, and her trident in her other hand.
"Hostile Intent... only one can be Champion."
One final shot of the two facing off after their agreement signing and handshake, both fan favorites splitting the crowd as they sign the deal for their match.
As the opening chords of "Born of a Broken Man" by Rage Against The Machine hits the speakers, the fans cheer for the fan favourite as he makes his way to the stage. Lights circle the stage marking his appearance, complete with a bottle of Jack Daniels in his hand. He pauses on stage, raises the bottle to the fans to much cheers, and the StormCrow takes a swig before making his way down the ramp.
He circles the ring clockwise making sure to pay service to those at ringside, before topping on the southside and climbing the apron. Turning back to face the camera, he takes another swig of the booze, gives the camera a wink and sprays the drink into the air, ala Triple H.
Marty Watts: Introducing first, the challenger... wrestling out of Seattle, Washington and weighing in tonight at two hundred and two pounds... he is "The Stormcrow" TOMMMMMMYYYYYY KELLLLLLLLLLYYYYYYYY!!!!
He climbs in through the ropes and finds his corner, removing his denim jacket and other paraphernalia before the match begins.
Dan Simmons: A broken man that came alive once again from the ashes and the remnants of his past, Tommy Kelly has been on fire as of late here in Next Level Wrestling and he has always been etching one step closer to this spotlight, now it's his moment to shine again. Can the Crow truly fly again?
'Untouchable' hits the sound system as the overhead lights dim, the crowd loudly cheering for NLW's reigning Heavyweight Champion that is about to emerge. Blue and white lights flash along the rampway as spotlights of similar shades swirl over the crowd... and Eliza Dresden doesn't make them wait for long. Bounding out from behind the curtain, Dresden is quick to make her way to the top of the ramp with the championship around her waist and Jason Long's technicolor light-up shades shoved up to act like a headband of sorts--and once she's there? She thrusts Hyperion's trident into the air, earning a fresh wave of cheers. Of course, since she can't be idle for long, Eli is quick to bounce and poing her way down to the ring, darting from side to side to slap offered hands and otherwise play to the crowd.
Marty Watts: And his opponent, the champion... wrestling out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and weighing in tonight at one hundred and forty-three pounds... she is the current, reigning and defending NLW Heavyweight Champion... EEEEEELIIIIIIII DRRRRRRRREESSSSSSSSDENNNNNNNNNN!!!!
It's a bit trickier to do with a trident that's significantly taller than she is, but she makes it work. It's about three-fourths of the way down the ramp that she abandons that, speeding up to slide into the ring headfirst on her stomach before she twists onto her back and kips up to her feet. She's quick to mount the nearest turnbuckle, once again shoving that trident skyward to more of that positive reaction from the fans before she's popping back down and turning to look toward the middle of the ring. As her music fades, she hands the trident, the glasses, and the NLW Heavyweight Championship over to a production assistant before bouncing around on the balls of her feet, eagerly waiting for the match to get underway.
Tommy West: And here is the champion, who just last month, became the NLW Heavyweight Champion after defeating Leon Chant in a grueling battle but in her first defense, this might be make or break for her career and if she's able to defeat Tommy Kelly? It'll be a hell of a first defense for her.
MAIN EVENT
STEEL CAGE MATCH FOR THE NLW HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Eli Dresden (c) vs "The StormCrow" Tommy Kelly
DING! DING!
The match begins and the crowd are red hot, they are electric and they’re ready for a hell of a cage match as their main event. Both combatants stand in their corners and are staring down one another, the crowd definitely are half and half with who they truly want to cheer on in this match. Dresden climbs to the top rope, seemingly taking a seat as she stretches her arms out and all of the Dresden supporters begin to rally, cheering on the NLW Heavyweight Champion--but the rallying troops to the Dresden army are no match for the the cult-like following forming in the Avron B Fogelman Arena as the loud chants for Tommy Kelly begin to echo out, drowning over the Dresden Army.
“ELI DRES-DEN!” ... “STO-RM-CROW!”
“ELI DRES-DEN!" ... “STO-RM-CROW!”
“ELI DRES-DEN!” ... “STO-RM-CROW!”
“ELI DRES-DEN!" ... “STO-RM-CROW!”
“ELI DRES-DEN!” ... “STO-RM-CROW!”
Dan Simmons: Can you HEAR these people inside of the Avron B Fogelman Arena?!
Tommy West: Thunderous here in New Orleans, and neither of these two have even come close to one another!
Dresden and Kelly come closer to one another, standing nose to nose with each other as the height difference can be seen very clearly, the five feet and five inch champion stands up close to the six feet and one inch challenger, a gingerly smile on the face of The Stormcrow as he takes a few steps back and into the corner but Dresden follows him, sticking closer to him as she can before a shove pushes Dresden back and then the champion fires back with a Bicycle Pump Kick to the head of the challenger and the fight has begun! Dresden is teeing off with the challenger but Kelly uses his foot to push Dresden away from him before coming out of the corner -- BIG BOOT! Stormcrow puts the champion in her place with a massive Big Boot out of the corner. The champion scrambles to her feet and makes her way to the ropes, the challenger follows but Dresden lands the Basement Dropkick to the shins and Kelly goes head first into the cage wall! Dresden rebounds off of the ropes and charges towards Kelly, but Stormcrow twists his body around in a full one hundred and eighty degree turn and TAKES THE HEAD OFF OF DRESDEN! Kelly’s going for the quick cover!
ONE!
TWO!!
THR-
Dan Simmons: Tommy Kelly ALMOST became the champion because of that one lariat and you’ve got to think about what truly can put down Dresden if she’s almost about to fall to something like that?
Tommy West: She never saw it coming, nor did anyone in this arena, and there’s no blaming her for the near three count. That was a hard lariat from the challenger and I have a feeling he’ll continue to apply more pain to that head or neck area so he can hit Death Becomes You.
Being dragged to her feet and then tossed into the closest cage wall to her, the NLW Heavyweight Champion is being used like a ragdoll in the ring as Kelly brings her back up to her feet again and goes to throw her into the wall--but the champion catches her footing on the ropes, springboarding and falling back, into the Cutter! Dresden rolls over, arching the back of Tommy Kelly and locking in a Dragon Clutch! A very unusual set of maneuvers from Eli Dresden but she’s going to make good use of what she can right now, pulling back on the neck of Kelly as he reaches out for the ropes but Dresden releases the hold to stomp down onto the head of the challenger, pulling him by the hair and locking in a more modified version of the Dragon Sleeper, bringing her right arm around the back and clasping her hands together as she begins to choke out The Stormcrow! Kelly slips free from the clutches however, going behind the champion and heading for Death Becomes You--flip out onto her feet does the champion! Charging in with the Hurricanrana that sends Stormcrow across the ring! Dresden makes it back to her feet, eyeing up the challenger in the corner, and looking for the INCOMING! --but Kelly catches her in the Powerbomb position, running into the middle to plant her down, but she counters with the Sunset Flip Powerbomb onto Kelly! The shoulders are down!
ONE!
TWO!!
Dan Simmons: Another near fall but this time it’s the champion attempting to retain her championship! Her will to survive and her stubbornness is enough to keep things going, always attempting to counter whatever Kelly is throwing into her direction!
Tommy West: But you’ve seen that there’s a nervous look in her eyes, and that’s a look she never had when in the ring with Leon Chant during their championship match. It makes you wonder what Stormcrow is bringing to the table that nobody else has against Eli Dresden!
Dresden finds her way to her feet and climbs onto the ropes, watching Kelly make his up onto his feet before leaping off and driving both feet into the spine of Stormcrow, making him fall to the mat as she moves into the opposite corner, once again charging in and leaping for the Standing Shooting Star Press into the back of Kelly. Dresden rolls forward, back to her feet and in the corner as she springs onto the second rope and then to the top rope, leaping for the Moonsault right back down and ending the combination of moves! Dresden holds onto her rib cage as she stands up and looks down at her challenger. A stern look in her eyes as she begins to stalk, awaiting the right moment to pounce as Kelly begins to stir around a bit. She’s etching closer and closer to Tommy Kelly as Kelly finds his way to his feet, but there’s something not right about how Tommy’s moving, it’s like he’s staggering around and almost falling over. Like a drunkard on the streets of Bristol City, England. Dresden breaks her glare to check on Kelly but all that Kelly could do is push her away. Unamused with the shove, she forcefully turns him around--BUT SHE’S MET WITH AN IRISH KISS FROM THE STORMCROW! Kelly has a hold of her… DEATH BECOMES YOU! PLANTED DOWN INTO THE MIDDLE OF THE RING! KELLY HOOKS THE LEG! HE’S GOING TO BECOME HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION!
ONE!
TWO!!
THRE-
BUT THE CHAMPION KICKS OUT IN TIME! There’s no telling as to how much damage has been taken onto Dresden in this match, she’s been through enough as it is, but Kelly will not stop there as he rushes up to his feet and pulling Dresden up with him, attempting a second Death Becomes You but Dresden’s able to slip free from it and go between the legs, kick to the shin and then taking a few steps back so she can connect a Running Big Boot to Kelly’s face, using the knee for leverage! Both combatants are down and there’s little time remaining, Dresden knows if there’s just an instance where Kelly can connect another Death Becomes You, her short tenure as champion will come to an end. Dresden begins to crawl over to the ropes as Kelly lays there, almost motionless except for the twitching in his fingers, as Dresden pulls herself up to her feet and almost continues to climb. She’s using the ropes to scale all the way up and now it’s nothing more than the cage wall in her way, continuing to climb as she looks to escape the cage instead of actually putting The Stormcrow down for good--like she had promised. She’s struggling to even keep her grip on the cage itself, her foot grip slipping away with every pull she makes to rise higher up the cage wall. Kelly, however, is beginning to make a move and is looking up to Dresden, who’s spotted Kelly below. She closes her eyes and takes a deep breath… REVERSE FACING DIVING SENTON! ALMOST FIFTEEN FEET IN THE AIR AS SHE CRASH LANDS ONTO TOMMY KELLY!
Dan Simmons: Eli Dresden has a DEATH WISH for herself and clearly, she’s not giving the slightest fuck about anything right now! She just wants to do what is right to defend her championship and any more could give Kelly the advantage!
Tommy West: She’s going to toss herself at him and hopefully hit something that might stun him enough to stay down, which could be the reason for such a high risk and high reward move she just used. But she’s got the opening she needed and all she could do right now is take advantage of the situation.
The champion is rallying her army as they cheer her on, Dresden dragging Kelly into the corner and placing him seated as she runs to the opposite corner before turning her direction around to charge into Kelly with the INCOMING! Shooting Star Cannonball connects and Dresden’s wasting no time, bringing Kelly up to the top rope and climbing up there with him as she catches him, using the ropes to spring--INTO A GDI! THE ARABIAN MOONSAULT SLAM! NO SHE DIDN’T, CROW COUNTERED WITH A HIP TOSS FROM THE TOP ROPE AND IS RIGHT INTO REDRUM SHE’LL GO! DRESDEN IS TRAPPED BEYOND COMPARISON! THAT CHOKEHOLD IS APPLIED AND DRESDEN’S GOT NOWHERE TO GO! SHE CAN’T EVEN USE THE ROPES TO BREAK THE PIN BECAUSE THERE’S NO ROPE BREAKS! Kelly pulls back but he goes too far as the grip slips and now Dresden’s free, scrambling to her feet as she ducks the boot and rebounds off of the ropes--STANDING GDI! DRESDEN GOT TOMMY DOWN TO THE MAT! THE COVER AND THE COUNT!
ONE!
TWO!!
THREE--
Dan Simmons: NOT THIS TIME! After everything they’ve gone through right now, it’s down to who can put together the final nail in one another’s coffin and can seal the deal for their fates as champion!
Tommy West: Dresden’s looking groggy but Kelly’s looking beaten right now. It’s anyone’s game, playing for keeps, one’s gotta walk away with the win!
Dresden and Kelly slowly make their way to their feet and are looking incredibly fucked as it is. Two of them have put one another through hell and it seems as if they’re not gonna be stopping any time soon. Dresden grabs onto Kelly’s hand and begins to climb to the top rope, walking the tightrope of the top rope before launching herself down onto Kelly and tossing him--but Kelly’s able to keep his feet in place, pulling Dresden and himself up before charging… TURNBUCKLE POWERBOMB! Dresden stumbles out of the corner and is tossed with the Hip Toss KNEE STRIKE TO THE JAW! Dresden falls back but Kelly’s able to grab onto her, hands on her right wrist… WRIST-HOLD POP UP BACK DROP DRIVER FROM THE MAT! AND RIGHT INTO REDRUM! DRESDEN’S FADING QUICKLY! THE NLW HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION IS FADING FAST AND TIME IS NOT AT THE ESSENCE! SHE DOESN’T HAVE THE ENERGY TO FIGHT ANYMORE!
Dan Simmons: We might be seeing the ending right here! We might see Eli Dresden fade away into obscurity and end the reign in such a short amount of time!
Tommy West: Don’t give up hope yet, Tommy! Don’t give up that fuckin’ hope! Dresden has to make this happen! She cannot lose the championship like this!
HER HEAD DROPS AND IT MIGHT BE OVER FOR HER! IT MIGHT AS WELL BE OVER AS THE REFEREE GRABS ONTO THE ARM-- but Kelly releases the submission. The Stormcrow looks to the referee with a stern look in his eyes, almost coming nose to nose with him.
Tommy Kelly: I ain’t lettin’ her fall down like that, she’ll fall like her reign will fall. Much like how Icarus fell to the earth. Much like how I’ll crumble her lil’ ego of hers. She’s done.
A direct message sent directly into the referee as he might have just sealed her fate, grabbing onto the wrist for ANOTHER WRIST-HOLD POP UP BACK DROP DRIVER! ROLL THROUGH AS KELLY GETS TO HIS FEET… DEATH BECOMES YOU! IT’S OVER! THE REIGN WILL COME TO AN END!
ONE!
TWO!!
THREE!!!
DING! DING! DING!
Marty Watts: Here is your winner… and the NEEEEEWWWWWWWWWWWWWW NEXT LEVEL WRESTLING HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION… THE STORMCROW… TOMMMMMMYYYYYYY KEEEELLLLLLLLLLYYYYYYYYYY!!!
“Born of a Broken Man” by Rage Against The Machine plays through the speakers as the cage begins to rise and the confetti falls, crowning a fourth ever NLW Heavyweight Champion in Tommy Kelly. The Cult of Kelly are in full swing, the chants raining down onto the victorious new champion as he stands up, to his feet, and with the championship in his hands -- he stands over the former champion, fallen and broken down, before raising the championship over her lifeless body and over his head.
Dan Simmons: The Stormcrow has flown once more and is standing at the peak of the mountain here in Next Level Wrestling. As much as I wanted Dresden to retain the championship, I’m excited to see how the reign of Tommy Kelly proceeds into our next chapter here in NLW.
Tommy West: But nonetheless, tonight’s been a night where new beginnings have begun, and tonight we’ve proven that the landscape of Next Level Wrestling can once again change on a dime. For my partner, Dan Simmons, I’ve been Tommy West and we’ll see you in two weeks for Ascendancy XVI!
The final shot we see is The Cult of Stormcrow entering the ring and above their heads? The brand new NLW Heavyweight Champion as the feed soon fades to black.
