Vortex Season 2 - Episode 2
Arena: Time Warner Cable Arena
Capacity: 15000
City: Charlotte, North Carolina
***PYRO***
***PYRO***
***PYRO***
Vortex opens up with a huge display of pyro on stage as the cameras sweep across the Time Warner Cable Arena. The capacity crowd in Charlotte lets out a huge roar as we fade towards the announce table and a smiling Stan Chambers and Charlie Campbell.
Chambers: Welcome to PWC Vortex! I’m Stan Chambers and this is my broadcast partner Charlie Campbell and we’re here in the sold out Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, North Carolina for another incredible night of some of the best pro wrestling on the planet. We’ve got a massive night planned with the news that our great Legacy Champion Cheri Hayven has vacated the title with the tournament to crown a new Champion starting right here tonight.
Campbell: That’s right Stan, Brittany Page, stepping in for Ernie Clement made a huge announcement this past week that we’re going to crown a new Legacy Champion and we’re going to do it over the course of the next few weeks.
A replay of Brittany Page’s announcement begins playing onscreen.
PWC Breaking News Announcement
A breaking news animation flashes on screen for a moment before fading away to Brittany Page sitting in an office behind a desk with the PWC logo emblazoned in huge letters on the wall behind her. With her lips pursed tightly together and her fingers interlocked on the desk in front of her, the pensive looking Page addresses the PWC audience.
Brittany Page:
Welcome to all our PWC fans. As you all know after the events of the Season 2 premiere of Vortex our great Legacy Champion Cheri Hayven was attacked by Kyle Elric, who Mr. Clement has assured me he will deal with as soon as he can, and had to be taken to a medical facility thereafter. I know a lot of our fans have wanted an update on the condition of our Legacy Champion. All we know right now is that Cheri won’t be able to compete for some time.
Brittany shifts uncomfortably in her seat.
Brittany Page:
I just want everyone to know how much we appreciate Cheri and what she’s done for PWC but the Legacy Title is big a part of our show and having these doubts hanging over our Legacy Champion’s fitness just isn’t something we can carry on with. As such, and believe me I hate to do this, we have to find a new Legacy Champion. I’m sorry Cheri.
Brittany Page shuffles around the papers in front of her, adjusts her glasses and begins reading as the screen switches to a graphic showing brackets with different match-ups.
Brittany Page:
I’ve decided that the only fair way to crown a new Legacy Champion, a worthy champion at that, is to create a tournament that will include every single member of the PWC roster excluding Donald Hammerpunch and the No.1 Contender Ivory. I will fully explain the format of the semi-finals and finals of the tournament on the next show but what I can tell everyone right now is that the matches to determine who will gain significant advantages at the semi-finals will be held on the next two episodes of Vortex where each participant will compete in 1 on 1 matches to gain those much prized advantages.
Episode 2: Tournament Matches:
Bruce Thorn Jr. vs. Austin Angel (Also TV Title Match)
William Gust vs Flexx Palumbo
La Cara de la Fantasma vs Shadow
Daiko vs Crowley
Marcus Kendall vs Dr. Nero
Episode 3: Tournament Matches:
Edward Potts vs Kyle Elric
Derek Jacobs vs Barney Williams
Jensen vs Darius Black
Daiko vs TV Champion (TV Title Match)
Episode 4: Tournament Matches:
Semi-Finals
We then switch back to a now smiling Brittany Page.
Brittany Page:
One more thing I need to address is where the Television Title stands in all this. The title match between Bruce Thorn Jr. and Austin Angel on the next episode will double up as a tournament match, while the winner of that match will face Daiko on Episode 3 who himself I feel deserves another shot at the title after drawing with the Champion.
Page’s smile grows wider as she pushes her notes aside and stares directly into the camera.
Brittany Page:
To all our PWC fans, what I can promise you is a tournament like nothing you’ve ever seen before with some of the best wrestlers in the world and when it’s all said and done, we will have a new Legacy Champion.
Chambers: Yes, but it’s a tournament that’s seemingly shrouded in mystery. No one really knows what the final format will be, and all we do know are the brackets for the singles matches that will take place over the next few episodes of Vortex with the winners gaining some sort of an advantage for the finals.
Campbell: Some of those proposed matches are simply amazing though, Stan. Some matches we’ve never seen before in PWC.
Chambers: Absolutely, our great fans although bitterly disappointed that the First Lady of PWC Cheri is no longer Champion after the despicable actions of Kyle Elric have still been buzzing about this tournament all week. What will be the advantage that the winners receive for the finals and what will the final matches be? We’ve just got so many unanswered questions.
Campbell: Let’s not waste any more time talking and get right down to it.
The cameras cut back to the ringside area with Emma Mason dressed in a fine black gown and her golden hair pinned up tightly in a bun joined by Referee Gwen Jeffers ready to announce the next match.
Emma Mason: The following contrast is for the PWC Television Title.
Chambers: That’s right folks we’re starting Vortex off with a bang and we’re doing it with a huge TV title match.
A TV Title graphic pops up on screen and on the jumbotron in the Arena before Mason continues the introduction.
Emma Mason: Introducing first from….
**Catch your Breath**
Daiko’s music hits and cuts off Emma Mason before she can complete the introduction. The Scotsman strides out smirking at the capacity crowd in the Time Warner Cable Arena as he makes his way down the ramp.
Chambers: I wonder what Daiko’s doing out here, his TV title match isn’t supposed happen until next week’s show.
Campbell: Maybe he just can’t wait, Stan. Jumping the TV title queue isn’t something I’d put past him.
The No.1 Contender at the next Vortex for the TV title calmly strides around ringside, glaring at the confused Emma Mason and Gwen Jeffers in the ring before making his way to the commentary booth.
Chambers: Daiko, we weren’t expecting you out here…..
Both Commentators stand up to greet Daiko but he ignores their outstretched hands and pulls a shocked Stan Chambers’ headset off. The Scotsman puts the headset on and pulls up a seat next to Charlie Campbell, before leaning back in his chair and putting both feet on the announce table. Chambers puts another headset on.
Daiko: I know you weren’t expecting me out here, Chambers, no one was but when did I ever do what people wanted me to?
Campbell: You’ve got a match against Crowley later tonight but are you here to scout your opponent for next week, Daiko.
Daiko: I know all about Thorn and Angel, this is more of me just being a good employee. What does our fearless leader Ernie Clement, when he isn’t off somewhere crying about our Legacy Champion of course, always say?
Chambers and Campbell quizzical exchange looks but Daiko cuts them off before they can answer.
Daiko: This is PWC, this is where the action is, so I’m out here to take in all this incredible action just like all these idiot fans. Watch Bruce Thorn against Austin Angel for the right to lose to me next week up close and personal, and if I get to save all the other idiots at home with my outstanding analysis, then why not? A nice change of pace from the usual drivel you two spout.
Stan Chambers rolls his eyes.
Campbell: Well Daiko we’re happy to have you out here I guess.
Daiko: Damn right you are, CC. Let’s get this show on the road. That's how you do the cheesy introduction. Right, Stan?
**On my Own**
As “On my Own” kicks up, a spotlight pans up to the top of Time Warner Cable Arena where Austin Angel stands with his head down and with the Charlotte crowd letting out a huge roar to greet one of PWC’s favourite sons. He quickly makes his way down the arena steps and walks through the ecstatic crowd. Angel spots a kid nearby in the crowd holding up an “AA’s my hero” sign and hands the young fan his signature sunglasses which puts a huge smile on his face. He reaches the guard rail, and he flips over it into ringside. Angel catches a glimpse of Daiko at the announce table and lingers for a moment as the two rivals lock eyes.
He then slides into the ring under the bottom rope, slaps the mat a couple times to fire himself up and then poses on the top turnbuckle for the fans motioning to his waist and making a belt sign to signal his intentions to win the Television Title tonight.
Emma Mason: Introducing first the Challenger, from the City of Angels, weighing in 225lbs, Austin Angel!
Daiko: Here’s the man who I carried in the Fallen, Austin Angel.
Chambers: These fans would beg to differ, Daiko. They love Angel and what he represents. Fighting spirit and doing what’s right for your family…..
Daiko: Oh shut up, Stan. These people cheer for a man that was never on my level, and did his best to bring our tag team down.
Campbell: To be fair Daiko, Austin did convincingly defeat one of your great rivals from The Regime, the man that almost ended his career when he was in The Fallen, Derek Jacobs last week to earn this opportunity.
Daiko: And who did I beat, Campbell? Oh, only Freddie Vos in his god damn prime. You want to compare accolades, I beat Freddie Vos on the big stage in a PPV match and Austin Angel loses to Derek Jacobs and takes his ball and goes home. Whatever he did last week doesn’t erase the fact and if he somehow manages to win here tonight I’ll show him once and for all who the better man is.
**Sabotage**
Sabotage hits and Tommy Thorn comes striding out onto stage with Bruce Thorn with the Television Title around his waist close behind. The arena lights dime and the spotlight descends on both men with Tommy Thorn stepping in front of his nephew who puts his hands on his uncle’s shoulders and leads him down the ramp towards ringside. As seen at the last Vortex there’s more of a mixed crowd reaction for Bruce Thorn now with many in the audience cheering the TV Champion and others booing loudly. With both men at ringside Bruce strips his hoodie off before slipping under the bottom rope and into the ring, while keeping his eyes locked on Austin Angel in the corner. He kneels down before raising both arms and pointing towards the sky. Uncle Tommy stands on the ring apron and claps. Bruce stands up and notices Daiko sitting at the announce desk and lifts the Television Title in the direction of the No.1 Contender next week.
Chambers: This should be a huge test for PWC’s first ever Television Champion. He and Austin Angel have had issues for a long time now but have never actually had a one on one match before.
Daiko: Another test he’ll fail, just like last week? Unless his uncle holds his hand and helps him again, that’s the only way Thorn ever wins.
Campbell: Everyone knows the distaste I have for the Thorns, Daiko but Tommy never got involved in your match last week.
Daiko: That doesn’t make Thorn any less of a failure as Television Champion. What kind of a Champion draws his first title defense. He should be embarrassed.
.
Emma Mason: And his opponent, the PWC Television Champion, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, weighing in at 238lbs, Bruce Thorn Jr.
Emma Mason makes her out of the ring with Bruce Thorn handing over the Television Title belt to Gwen Jeffers who lifts it in the air with both men eyeing each other at either side of her. A smirking Tommy Thorn passes by Daiko at the announce desk.
Tommy Thorn: Here to see what my nephew will do to you next week, Daiko?
Daiko: Here to see your nephew be the worst Champion in PWC history you mean.
Tommy sneers at Daiko and makes his way to the other side of the ring.
Chambers: Outside of the contempt you’ve shown for both men, who do you see winning this one, Daiko.
Daiko: This is a classic contrast of speed versus power. Thorn will try and ground Angel, keep him away from the top rope and keep it on the mat and wear him down. Angel needs to hit hard and fast, keep the pace of the match as fast as possible, and hit one of those big flashy moves these idiots in the crowd love so much if he wants to win. Who wins? Who cares, whoever wins loses to me next week anyway.
Gwen Jeffers calls for the bell.
**Match 1 | PWC Television Championship: Bruce Thorn Jr (c) vs Austin Angel**
The anticipation in the crowd builds as Thorn and Angel circle each other for a moment with both men slowly moving forward. The quicker Angel darts in and goes to pick Thorn’s leg but the larger Thorn shows his own quickness by sidestepping and going to pick a leg himself. Angel jumps over Thorn’s attempt, rolls away and comes flying back with Clothesline attempt. Thorn ducks under the attack, scores with the go behind and wraps his arms around his opponent’s waist before lifting Angel into the air and dropping him face first into the mat and taking the mount. Angel crabs on all fours, spins his body around, grabs hold of one of Bruce’s arms and takes control with a wrist lock pushing Thorn face first into the mat. Thorn uses his massive strength advantage, pushing off with his powerful legs and flipping his body over to try and shake Angel off his back but the Speedster shows his tremendous wrestling ability by rolling with his opponent and retaking the mount. Thorn smashes his fist into the mat in frustration and pain with Angel wrenching back on the wrist lock, forcing Thorn’s arm up and increasing the pressure. Thorn composes himself once again, taking a deep breath before pushing himself and Angel up with his free hand, spinning his body around this time and releasing the pressure. Both men are now eye to eye on their knees on the mat. Thorn throws a forearm shiver that knocks his foe back but the determined Angel answers with a vicious forearm of his own. Both men begin to trade forearms, lashing out at the other man, with shot after shot and fighting to their feet. Thorn seems to be getting the best of the exchange pushing Angel back with his heavier hands, but PWC’s original Highflyer sends gasps throughout the arena but suddenly dropping his hands to the mat and connecting flush to Thorn’s head with the Handstand Pele Kick. A dazed Thorn staggers back but Angel is in the no mood to give his foe a moment’s rest, pulling Thorn in and then whipping him towards the ropes and catching him coming back in with Clothesline. Thorn goes down but quickly springs back up, only to be nailed with another Clothesline from Angel. Again the TV Champion goes down but gets back up, this time much slower but AA answers again, smashing his foe with a Dropkick to the Knee sending Thorn down to the mat. Angel shuffles his feet, steadies himself and then launches himself backwards from a standing position into the air, spinning his body around and nailing the Standing Corkscrew Moonsault and driving the air from Thorn’s body. Angel hooks the leg and goes for the cover with Gwen Jeffers sliding in and counting the pin.
One…
Two…
Kickout! Thorn kicks out at two with the Charlotte crowd counting along with Gwen Jeffers when she signals the kickout.
Chambers: How do you not love Austin Angel? The man has a spectacular moveset.
Daiko: All flash from Angel as usual, but of course idiots like you and this crowd eat it up, Stan.
Noticing Thorn clutching his ribs in pain after that spectacular Corkscrew Moonsault, Angel sends a low dropkick to the midsection of his foe. Thorn rolls away writhing around in pain but Angel won’t let him create any distance and drives a well-placed knee to the ribs to keep him within reach. Angel stomps on Thorn and then goes for another jumping knee looking to further press home his advantage but this time Thorn rolls away and avoids the attack. Angel grabs his knee in pain after the miss before limping up to his feet only to meet a roaring Thorn coming in with a big Discus Elbow smash that sends his foe off his feet. Thorn drops to one knee still clutching his mid-section in pain but when Tommy Thorn screams from the outside to take advantage of the situation while Angel is still down, the TV Champion composes himself and mounts his fallen opponent, sending down a barrage of right hands to the head. Thorn hooks Angel’s head underneath his arm and then deadlifts the Challenger halfway from the ground. The crowd in the Time Warner Cable Arena gasp at the image of Thorn straining every muscle to pick up Angel with no leverage. Suddenly Thorn almost loses his grip of Angel in mid-air, with pain etched all over the TV Champion’s face, but somehow he manages to fight through the pain and slam Angel off the other side with the Deadlift Vertical Suplex!
Tommy urges Bruce to make the cover but the younger Thorn is flat on his back clutching his ribs in pain. Again Tommy shouts from the outside, banging his hand on the apron with Bruce finally dragging himself into the cover.
One…
Two…
Kickout! Angel kicks out, with Gwen Jeffers signalling as such.
Campbell: Unbelievable show of strength by Thorn, even though his ribs are clearly bothering him after the Moonsault.
Daiko: And again that big dumb lumix had to rely on that obnoxious uncle of his to remind him to make the cover. What kind of Champion can’t remember to go for the cover with his opponent down like that?
Thorn slips off the fallen Angel lifting himself gingerly to his feet. He takes a deep breath, grimacing at the pain shooting from his midsection. Thorn picks up Angel and buries a swift knee into his gut, followed by an elbow to the back of his head. He hits another knee to the gut and then another elbow to the head before grabbing onto the Challenger’s arm and whipping him across the ring into the corner. Angel bounces off with Thorn catches him on his way back, holding him in position and flipping Angel over his head with the Exploder Suplex! But NO!
Angel lands on his feet!
The crowd go wild as AA shows cat like reflexes and agility to somehow rotate his body enough to stick the landing. A shocked Thorn turns around wide-eyed to see Angel on his feet in front of him. He bolts towards his foe looking to re-establish control with a big Lariat but Angel ducks underneath the attempt and catches Thorn coming back in with the Dropsault! Again he does a full rotation and lands on his feet. A huge "Austin Angel" chant fills the arena as The Challenger fires up and connects with the now retreating Thorn with vicious right and left hands, some targeted to Thorn’s weakened mid-section. Thorn falls back into the ropes looking to block Angel’s fierce attack but the Challenger won’t let up, nailing the Champion with blow after blow. Thorn again tries to mount some sort of offence and bounces off the ropes again looking to hit the big Lariat but Angel sidesteps, runs towards and springs off the ropes, flying in and hitting the Flying Chuck Kick to the back of Thorn’s head!
The Champion goes face first into the mat before turning on his back, writhing in pain. Angel sees his moment and signals to the crowd who let out a huge roar as the Highflyer springs towards the top rope in one fluid motion. Perched on the top rope and with Thorn at his mercy Angel wastes no time, raising his arms to steady himself for just a moment before flying off , his arms extended out with his version of the Frog Splash, the Angel Splash!
But Thorn rolls away at the last second and Angel comes crashing down face first into the canvas.
Chambers: Angel went back to what brought him to the dance, the high risk offence looking to end it right here and now but Thorn just manages to escape disaster.
Daiko: Vintage Angel! Goes for the big move and falls flat on his face.
Thorn picks himself up and sees Angel clutching his mid-section in pain after hitting the mat so hard. He finds a second wind and comes bounding to his feet, flying into Angel with a Lariat, this time hitting the mark and sending the Challenger spinning around and hitting the mat. With Tommy Thorn screaming for him to finish it now, Bruce wraps his arms around Angel’s waist, deadlifts him violently to his feet and pushes him towards the ropes before rolling off with his opponent still firmly in his grasp and hitting the Chaos Theory, his rolling German Suplex and bridging into the cover. Gwen Jeffers swiftly drops down and makes the counts.
One…
Two…
Thre…No!
Thorn loses his grip and releases the pin, again clutching his ribs in pain. The injury to his mid-section meant he couldn’t hold the bridge for the pin.
Campbell: Incredible sequence from both men, they’re throwing absolutely everything at each other now.
Daiko: That idiot! Has a rib injury, yet continues to go for bridging covers and suplexes? Ladies and Gentlemen, your oh so intelligent PWC Television Champion.
The crowd are on their feet now, willing both men to keep fighting. Thorn stumbles to his feet with Angel not far behind. Thorn and Angel fall into each other, their eyes and full of fire. Thorn throws the first forearm and Angel answers with a right hand of his own, forearm by Thorn and a right haymaker from Angel, as the two rivals trade vicious shot after vicious shot with the crowd immersed in every blow. Angel starts building up a head of steam firing off right and lefts, Thorn tries to keep up with big shots of his own but Angel shows tremendous awareness sending a malignant right hand to the body sending Thorn dropping to one knee clenching his mid-section in agony. Angel sees his chance, he runs towards and then rebounds off the ropes with Thorn prone, grabbing hold of the Champion’s head, looking to connect with his devastating finishing manoeuvre, The Angel Cutter!
But Thorn plants his feet, grabs Angel and lifts him into the air onto his shoulders in the electric chair position. The crowd erupt familiar with Thorn’s setup for his signature Croyt’s Wrath, but Angel sees it too and immediately begins pounding on Thorn with right hands. But Thorn goes for something else taking Angel and crowd by surprise! He hits the One-Winged Angel! He drops Angel on the back of his head locks in the cover!
One…
Two…
Thre…Kickout! Angel somehow manages to kick out. The crowd are breathless and Tommy Thorn on the outside can’t believe it. Bruce’s eyes meet Angel on the mat. He wonders what it’ll take to finally put an end to Austin Angel. He pushes himself to his feet and strides over to the other side of the ring. Thorn signals for Angel to get up, he wants to hit the Spear. Angel warily picks himself back up to his feet. Thorn’s eyes light up and he comes barreling in looking to connect with his finisher the Spear. But Angel leaps into the air and over his foe. The Champion looks around bewildered at Angel’s unbelievable quickness. He spins on his heels and goes rushing in again, but this time Angel sidesteps and Referee Gwen Jeffers is in the way! Thorn seeing the referee tries to stop his momentum, but it’s too late as Jeffers gets driven back, the official is down! Thorn can’t believe what he’s just done, he turns around and eats a knee to the face from a resurgent Angel. The Champion staggers back to the corner, but Angel grabs on, pulls his opponent into position snaps off his cradle shock the Last Resort, slamming Thorn into the canvas. Tommy Thorn on the outside can’t believe it. Angel thinks about going for the cover but realises that Gwen Jeffers can’t make the count. He stares up at the top rope and steels himself for what he must do before pulling Thorn towards the middle of the ring. The Highflyer leaps to the top rope as the crowd roar. Angel readies himself to end it here with The Fall from Heaven!
Boos suddenly erupt all around the arena. Angel turns his head with his eyes meeting DEREK JACOBS for just a moment. Jacobs pushes Angel off he top rope!
Angel hits the mat hard, the back of his head bounces dangerously off the canvas. The giant Jacobs smiles down at the fallen Angel before drinking in the thunderous boos all around Time Warner Cable Arena and turning his back on ring and striding off towards the back.
Daiko can be heard laughing on commentary.
Chambers: Damn it, damn you Jacobs.
Campbell: What’s so funny, Daiko.
Daiko: You saw it? The way Angel's head bounced off the mat as he fell, it’s hilarious.
Bruce Thorn none the wiser to Jacobs interference regathered himself and sees Angel out of it in the corner. Tommy Thorn urges Bruce to end it now while he still can as Referee Gwen Jeffers starts to stir. Thorn gingerly picks himself up to his feet as Angel does the same in the corner. Thorn plants his feet, bulls forward and hits the Spear smashing into Angel with all the force he can muster!
Referee Gwen Jeffers still feeling the effects of the earlier incident starts a slow count.
One………………..
Two………………..
Three……………..It’s Over!
Winner: Bruce Thorn Jr.
Tommy Thorn runs into the ring with the Television Title and picks his nephew up to celebrate.
Chambers: Jacobs ruined that match, a great Television Title match between two great rivals and he just ruins it.
Campbell: Angel did defeat Jacobs last week to earn the right to compete in this match, they do have a long history so maybe Jacobs saw another way to screw over Angel and took it.
Chambers: None the less Thorn retains the Television Title and earns an unspecified advantage at the finals of the Legacy Title Tournament.
Daiko: You two are asking the wrong questions. I said I didn’t care which one of those goofs won and I don’t. Thorn won so Thorn’s the one I beat next week for my Television Title. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a Legacy Title tournament match to prepare to win tonight against Crowley.
As Daiko takes off the headset and moved to leave the announce desk Bruce Thorn appears in front of him. Thorn and Daiko lock eyes as the tired and beat up Champion slowly lifts the title belt high in the air while clutching his injured mid-section as Daiko looks up at what he’ll fight for next week before smirking back at Thorn. Both men trade insults until Tommy Thorn and Gwen Jeffers get in-between the two warriors before it can go any further.
Chambers: Next week, Daiko vs Thorn II for the PWC Television Title.
We see Austin Angel still in the ring pulling himself up with disappointment and rage etched all over his face.
Campbell: You have to believe Austin Angel won’t let this one go, partner. After everything Jacobs has done to him, I have a feeling costing him the TV Title when he clearly had the match won must be the last straw.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
COMMERCIAL BREAK
Brittany Page is ordering some of her assistants around her office. The acting head of PWC is hard at work making sure the second episode of Vortex season two is running smoothly.
Page: No, I don’t want to reveal the tournament format just yet, let’s keep it a surprise and really build the excitement.
She looks down at a notice one of her assistant’s hands her and waves him away.
Page: I saw what happened to Referee Gwen Jeffers earlier; make sure she checks in with the doctor, we need our referee’s in tip top condition for tournament matches.
Page watches the live feed of the arena in her office when her door swings open. Page wears an irritated look on her face as she whirls around to meet the unwanted visitor.
Page: What did I say about not wanting to be disturbed tonight, we’re in the middle of a show…..
Her eyes go wide as she sees the figure standing in the doorway. It's Ernesto Clement!
PWC’s owner isn’t wearing his usual signature colourful suit, instead sporting a plain black t-shirt and jeans. Clement strides into the office as the shocked room grows quite. He walked over to and pulls up the big chair at the Page's table and takes a seat.
Clement: Miss Page.
Page: Mr…..Mr. Clement, we weren’t expecting you here tonight.
Page turns to one of the awe stuck assistants.
Page: What are you waiting for, go get Mr. Clement something to drink.
Clement: That won’t be necessary.
Clement eyes the room around him before waving the assistant’s away.
Clement: Can we have the room please, Miss Page and I have somethings to discuss.
The assistant’s hurriedly take their leave as Clement’s eyes fix on Brittany Page.
Page: Sir, I know what you’re going to say.
Clement: Oh you do, do you?
Page: I had to, for the good of the company.
Clement picks up a golden pen on the table in front of him and runs it along his fingers while he watches Brittany.
Clement: I would have liked to have been consulted about it first, especially a decision this big. For us to find another Legacy Champion, that's huge.
Page: I knew you just weren’t in the right frame of mind, Sir. I know the toll Cheri being in hospital would’ve taken on you emotionally; you wouldn’t have been in the condition to make that kind of decision.
Clement: That was my decision to make, Miss Page. I don’t need someone looking after me, especially when it comes to running my own company.
Page lets out a sad sigh and takes a seat herself.
Clement: But….
Page: But?
Clement: I understand why you did what you did. I know Cheri won’t like it, not at all, I hope she can forgive me. After everything she did to earn that title and everyone’s respect as well. It meant he world to her. But…I understand it was for the good of the company.
Page: I’m glad, sir, you’ll see how great this tournament will be. We’ve got the best…
Clement stops Page mid sentence with a wave of the hand, his eyes grow cold, his face filled with a rage we’ve never seen from the PWC owner before.
Clement: One thing I will not tolerate though, is Elric walking around with my daught……………… with Cheri’s belt. Disrespecting everything she stands for, spitting on all her hard work. I can’t take him out of the tournament after you already scheduled him to compete in it, but I won’t stand for him wearing that belt.
Page: Sir, I was just going to issue the order for Elric to return the belt. If he doesn’t, he’ll forfeit his tournament spot.
Clement leans back in his chair and looks out of the window at the stadium arena below before dropping the pen on the table.
Clement: I’m glad to hear that. I’ll deal with Elric myself soon enough.
Clement turns back to Page, his eyes softening this time.
Clement: All of this Miss Page, I’ve worked so hard to build all of this. Many in my own family have suffered because of it…... I was never there when she needed me most, always travelling around trying to grow my company, but now, today I will be.
Page: Sir?
Clement: I need to be with her, now when she needs me most, for all those times I couldn’t be by her side.
The owner of PWC stands up and walks towards the door.
Clement: I trust you to take care of things while I’m away, Miss Page. If you need anything let me know.
Page: You can trust me Mr. Clement.
Clement nods his head at his trusted assistant and takes his leave. Brittany Page walks over to the big chair Clement just vacated, sits down before picking up the phone and making a call.
Page: Yes, let Kyle Elric know that he has until the end of the show to hand back over the Legacy Title belt or he forfeits his place in the Legacy Title tournament, now!
Brittany Page considers what she just said for a moment before picking up the phone once again.
Page: Forget about telling Elric, get a camera crew in here now.
The camera crew enter Page's office with PWC's second in command wearing her loveliest smile.
Page: Last week Kyle Elric did something despicable. He took out our great Legacy Champion Cheri Hayven. Now Cheri has worked so hard for that title and I won't have Elric going around disrespecting it or her. Kyle Elric, either you return the belt to me before the end of the show or you're out of the tournament.
Page shifts uncomfortably in her seat before continuing.
Page: I know a lot of our PWC fans are wondering where our fearless leader Ernie Clement is and I'd just like to tell everyone that they don't have to worry. Mr. Clement is with his daughter during this difficult time.
The crew around Brittany Page exchange looks, wondering who Clement's daughter is.
Page: Mr. Clement is safe, taking care of his daughter........Cheri Hayven.
Gasps fill the room and can even be heard on camera, Page simply smiles and addresses the camera.
Page: Mr. Clement's put me in charge and I'll make sure PWC runs smoothly in his absence.
The scene fades out as Page shoos the camera crew from her office. She leans back in the big chair, picking up the golden pen. She stares out through the window to the arena floor with her lips curling into a wicked smile.
We join Danny Eriksen in the backstage area, PWC’s resident roving reporter has microphone in hand and a smile on his face.
Eriksen: This is PWC’s Danny Eriksen. We’ve just got word that Brittany Page has ordered a Championship FaceOff to take place tonight between World Heavyweight Champion Donald Hammerpunch and his challenger Ivory. It will be the first time these two men have come face to face since Ivory won the No.1 Contender’s Match at last week’s Vortex season two premiere and after the shocking conclusion to that very same episode when Ivory attacks the Champion.
The camera moves to a wide angel shot as we see the World heavyweight Champion Donald Hammerpunch, wearing a custom crisp white Donjitshu Gi and his golden title belt proudly on his waist flanked by two of his students Steve and Tim.
Eriksen: I’m now joined by the World Champion Donald Hammerpunch. Champ, tonight you come face to face with the man you’ll soon face for the World Heavyweight Championship, Ivory. We all saw what happened last week, with Ivory taking advantage of your situation with the former champion Dr, Nero.
Hammerpunch: Thank you, Daniel-san. Yes, we all saw Ivory’s reprehensible actions last week. I know what Nero’s promised me, that he will never rest until I lose this title so he can finally get another shot. And Ivory took advantage of that, there’s no doubt in my mind that there’ll be many more times leading up to my title defense with Ivory where Nero will try exactly the same thing and Ivory like the jackal with no honour he is will take advantage of that.
The room goes silent as the Champion takes a moment to consider his words, he knows the weight behind them now that he is CHampion. He must show strength in the face of this dire of situation.
Hammerpunch: I am not afraid, Daniel-san. I’m not afraid of Nero’s threats or that jackal Ivory. I am the Champion of the World! And I promised when I won this belt that I will be a Champion that our great fans and my students and this company can be proud of. If I bend to men like Nero, Ivory and Elric, what kind of Champion would that make me?
Hammerpunch taps his title belt lightly, then thumps his chest where his heart might be.
Hammerpunch: No, I will not bend and I will not break. Tonight I will look Ivory in the eyes and tell him that he will not defeat me for this title; I will fight for everything I believe in with my very last breath, for my fans, for my students, and for Donjitshu!
Danny Eriksen nods his head with Steve and Tim getting choked up after their sensei’s rousing speech.
Eriksen: Thank you Hammerpunch.
Danny Eriksen shakes the Champion’s hand who bows appreciatively.
We cut to ringside where Emma Mason and Roger Hains stand ready to announce and officiate the next match. Time Warner Cable Arena comes alive as the music hits.
**Jesus Glue**
Flexx Palumbo strides to the ring with his chest puffed out. The New Yorker and The Most Alpha Male Around takes his time getting to the ring. Spotting a hot girl in the crowd, Flexx sends her a cheeky wink and flex of those “gigantic” arms. He jumps up on the apron and then ascends the top rope and gives the crowd one last pose and flex from his chiselled physique.
Campbell: Look at the size of this man, Stan. An absolute beast, a man with a physique chiselled from stone, like one of those greek god statues come to life!
Chambers: Er, yes that’s Flexx, CC. A young man with an extremely high opinion of himself.
Campbell: And rightfully so. I remember when I had a body like that, I showed it off too!
Chambers: I’m sure you did, CC. I’m sure you did.
Campbell: I mean, chicks dig that guy, Stan.
Chambers: What do you know about chicks and what they dig. And what does that have to do with pro wrestling.
The Most Alpha Male Around poses in front of Emma Mason and asked if she’d like to feel his…..arms. But Mason shakes her head and steps to one side.
Campbell: Her loss.
Chambers: Besides striking out with Emma Mason, what do you expect from Flexx in this match. He is of course a tremendous athlete.
Campbell: Flexx is a fantastic athlete, who I believe doesn’t get enough credit because of his “unique” antics. But he’s an incredibly skilled wrestler and there’s no doubt in my mind that he’ll have a long and successful career here in PWC among the best wrestlers in the world.
Emma Mason: The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and is a PWC Legacy Title tournament match. Introducing first from Strong Island, New York, weighing in at 215lbs, Flexx Palumbo!
**Good Dirty Fun**
The lights in the Time Warner Cable Arena go out, and Gust's voice is heard over the loud speaker "I demand my spotlight" a spotlight is shined on the entrance ramp, and Gust is standing there. The spotlight follows Gust as he walks to the ring. A few fans in Charlotte remember Gust from his many movies and let the movie star turned pro wrestler have a good reception. Much more of them though who also remember him from his days as an actor, but much less fondly, instead let PWC’s newest star know how much they don’t like him. Gust steps into the ring and heads straight to the middle. He opens his cape and the lights turn on. The fans in the front row gasp as Gust’s spectacular cape unfolds and reveals the beautiful colours underneath.
Emma Mason: And his opponent from Hollywood, California, weighing in at 195lbs, William Gust!
Campbell: Wow, could a match involve two more good looking people, partner?
Chambers: Yes, I think it could, yes.
Campbell: Not a fan of Gust’s many box offices hits I take it, Stan. Oh, wait I'm talking to a man who’s favourite actor is still John Wayne.
Chambers: Don’t you dare bring the Duke into this.
Gust unclasps his cape and smirks disdainfully at Flexx at the other side of the ring. Gust daintily folds his precious cape and hands it to Emma Mason and warns her to be careful with it. Flexx shakes his head at his foe. Quipping to the crowd that some skinny movie star doesn’t belong anywhere near The Most Alpha Male Around.
Campbell: Gust is another one whose skill may be overlooked because of his over the top personality, but let me tell you, anyone who watched his match with one of the most dangerous men in PWC history last week in Darius Black will know that this man can go. He knows how to hit hard and he’s willing to do whatever it takes to win.
Chambers: This is a PWC Legacy Title Tournament match and the winner is to receive an unspecified advantage during the next round. Of course remember that these matches are non elimination so whoever loses still gets their chance in the next round, just without the advantage.
Roger Hains checked that both men ar ready for action, then signals for the timekeeper to ring the bell.
**Match 2 | Flexx Palumbo vs William Gust**
Flexx Palumbo shoots out the blocks quickly rushing at Gust and pushing the Famous Star into the corner before throwing a series of wild, left and right hands to the Gust’s perfect face. Gust frantically covers up, refusing to let this brute ruin his good looks. Flexx won’t let up, he batters Gust with shot after shot and seeing his adversary take special care to cover up his face, he attacks the body throwing a hard right hand to his foe’s rib cage that doubles Gust over in the corner. Gust goes down clutching his midsection in pain with Flexx stepping back and admiring his handiwork. The Alpha Male pulls Gust out of the corner and throws a hard clubbing blow to the back of the man’s head, then pulls Gust violently out of the corner and whips him across the ring, where he hits hard into the turnbuckles on the other side. Flexx takes the chance while his foe is down to signal to the crowd, then proceed to do 10 rapid fire one handed push-ups.
Gust stumbles out of the corner with Flexx springing back to his feet. The New Yorker motions for his foe to come near, then lifts the man in the air and drives him down into the mat with the spinning spinebuster. Gust eyes go wide as his back hits the mat hard. Flexx goes for the cover but with one hand while he does push-ups. Roger Hains shakes his head and then goes down for the cover.
One…
Kickout! Gust kicks out with barely a one count after Flexx’s nonchalant cover. The Gym Rat swats Gust away with his boot before lifting him back to his feet and yet again sending his opponent into the opposite turnbuckle with another hard Irish Whip. Gust comes staggering out of the corner with Flexx running the ropes and uses his momentum to grab his opponents head, looking to hit the One handed Bulldog. But NO! Gust counters by extending a long arm and grabbing the rope to stop his momentum. Flexx goes flying and falls flat on his behind. Gust’s sees his opportunity, as he runs the ropes himself then comes flying into the seated Palumbo with the Slider Special, his running elbow to a seated opponent. The Leading Man mounts his opponent and bombards him with rapid fire right hands to the temple, before grinding the point of his elbow into Flexx’s cheek bone. Gust stands up and then drives the bottom of his boot into the prone Palumbo, stomping a mud-hole into his downed opponent. Gust again runs the ropes and then comes flying in with the Diving Knee Drop into Flexx’s chiselled shoulder. Flexx holds his shoulder in pain after Gust’s pinpoint knee drop connected. Again Gust leaps to his feet and runs the ropes before flying into another Diving Knee Drop, this time aimed at Flexx’s head. Gust drives his elbow into the face of Palumbo, then hooks the leg for the deep cover with Roger Hains sliding in to make the count.
One…
Two…
Kickout! Flexx kicks out at two, feeling his face where Gust drove his elbow for the cover. Gust drags Palumbo to his feet, slapping the man repeatedly in the face on their way up. The Leading Man, William Gust sends a vicious knee into the gut of his foe, then a clubbing elbow to the back of his head. Gust runs the ropes and comes hurtling in looking to smash his opponent in the face with Running Elbow Smash, but Flexx counters with the European Uppercut, catching Gust coming in and knocking him back. Gust is dazed and Flexx looks to take advantage. He grabs the Leading Man’s arm and sends him flying across the ring in to the turnbuckles in the corner. Flexx’s eyes fill with fury as the Alpha Male sticks out his chest and goes for it, sprinting across the ring and leaping high into the air with all his momentum and might As he smashes into Gust in the corner with the Corner Splash. Gust falls to the mat in the corner with his legs spread out. Flexx looks down at his foe and then the crowd who all know what’s about to come. Strong Island’s favourite son sprints to the opposite corner hitting into the turnbuckle and sending a shudder all the way across the ring before sprinting back towards the prone Gust, leaving his feet and connecting with the Canonball! Palumbo pulls Gust out of the corner and into the middle of the ring, before shooting the half and making the pin.
One…
Two…
Kickout! Gust manages to kick out, but the Hollywood star is struggling to catch his breath now after Flexx’s powerful attack. Palumbo looks to end it now, stomping Gust. He lifts his foe up again bringing the man to his feet. The Alpha Male smirks at the crowd, pointing at his biceps and grinning at the camera. He sends Gust towards the ropes and signals that the end is near, Gust comes flying back in and the powerhouse Flexx throws the man into the air looking to hit the Pop Up Powerbomb!
But Gust leaps right over Flexx. The man from Strong Island can’t believe it; he spins around and meets a Spinning Elbow to the face, the Beauty Shot! Flexx goes down clutching his face. Gust extends his arms out, motioning to the crowd and then comes flying in with the soccerkick to the face, his so called Extreme Makeover: Face Addition. Gust goes for the cover, making sure that the hard camera gets his best side with the pin.
One…
Two…
Three….It’s Over.
Winner: William Gust
**Good Dirty Fun**
Emma Mason: Here is your winner, William Gust.
Campbell: The Gust or Bust tour keeps rolling on. That was a blockbuster win for the Leading Man, William Gust.
Chambers: It’s a huge win and great come back for Gust after he lost to Darius Black on the last Vortex.
Gust commands Roger Hains to fetch him his extravagant cape, the movie star extends his arms out as the referee is forced to drape the cape over his shoulders and then lift his arms in victory.
Chambers: The stakes are so high, the Legacy Title is one of the most prestigious titles in the company. It's been held by some great wrestlers.
Campbell: Yes, and with the advantage, Gust takes the first step on his journey to joining that illustrious list.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
COMMERCIAL BREAK
The behemoth known as Derek Jacobs is in the backstage area typing something on his cellphone. The big man has a big smile on his face, clearly still very pleased with himself after what he did to Austin Angel. Jacobs phone begins to ring with the smile on his face growing ever larger.
Jacobs: Hello.
Distorted Voice: Hello, Mr. Jacobs. We trust everything was in order with the payment?
Jacobs: Oh it was. I always take great enjoyment from screwing over Austin Angel, but when it involved sizable payments into my bank account as well, it makes it all the sweeter. It's also more than the sum we agreed upon?
Distorted Voice: We thought you did a brilliant job tonight and deserved a little extra for a job well done. But Mr. Jacobs, this stays between us.
Jacobs: Of course, I’m a professional.
Distorted Voice: Good. Keep this between us and I’m sure we’ll have a lot more mutually beneficial business to do together. Good Bye Mr. Jacobs, we’ll be in contact soon.
Derek Jacobs still wears that big beaming smile as he hangs up the phone, and nods his head gleefully, utterly pleased with himself. To his surprise , the big man turns around to find an angry looking Bruce Thorn Jr. with Tommy Thorn by his side heading towards him.
Derek Jacobs: Thorn, nice win tonight. Don’t worry you don’t have to thank me, the pleasure was mine.
Bruce Thorn: What exactly would I thank you for, Jacobs. I didn’t know what you did out there until I got to the back. I never asked you for your help, I didn’t want your help. That was between Austin Angel and I, it had nothing to do with you.
Tommy Thorn gets in-between his fuming nephew and the mammoth wrestler before things can get out of hand. Jacobs chuckles to himself lightly before addressing the TV Champion.
Derek Jacobs: Typical ungrateful response. Thorn, me and Angel go way back. It’s not over between him and I either, not by a long shot. And if I were you I’d worry more about keeping that safe, Champ. Because if it wasn’t for Angel last week, who knows were that title might be sitting right now.
Derek Jacobs points to the TV Title belt draped over Thorn’s shoulder, before smirking at the Champion and nonchalantly striding away. Tommy holds back Bruce once again reminding him that this isn’t the time or place for that.
We switch to another scene backstage where Donald Hammerpunch is with his student Steve Marinello. The Master of Donjitshu is going through his warm up routine in his locker room.
Steve: Sensei, have you seen Tim anywhere. He went to get something he forgot from the rental car but I haven’t seen him since.
Hammerpunch continues his warmup, firing off quick strikes and spin kicks with blurring quickness. He stops for a moment to address his loyal student.
Hammerpunch: It isn’t like Tim to just disappear like that. Go find him please Steve. We’re not far away from the Championship faceoff.
Steve bows to his sensei obediently and goes to find Tim while Hammerpunch continues his warm up.
We cut to Kira Wells in the backstage with mic in hand, she has a glum look on her face as she addresses the camera.
Wells: We’d like to apologize to all our viewers; we were scheduled to have a interview with Ivory regarding his Championship Faceoff later tonight but we can’t seem to find him. We’ll keep looking and as soon as we do we’ll have that interview ready for you. Until then, guys back to you.
**Catch your breath**
Daiko walks out onto the ramp for the second time tonight as smoke billows out of the ground on either side of him. As Catch your Breath gets going, he walks forward, ignoring the fans in the Time Warner Cable Arena, until he reaches the apron where he makes his way up onto the turnbuckle and throws back his hood and poses in time with his theme.
Campbell: If you follow me on social media and feel the need to spam my timeline about how Daiko is so much more of a better commentator then me just remember I’m not afraid to use the block button.
Chambers: Lighten up, CC. If you missed it., earlier tonight Daiko joined us on commentary during that spectacular but contentious Television title match between Bruce Thorn Jr. and Austin Angel.
Campbell: Daiko will meet Bruce Thorn Jr. for the Television Title next week in a rematch for the ages.
The controversial star jumps down into the ring, walks past Referee Gil Artman and ring announcer Emma Mason to the other side and calls out to Chambers and Campbell at the announce desk asking them if they’d like him to commentate on his own match, with Chambers and Campbell shaking their heads and rolling their eyes.
Daiko strides to the middle of the ring and sits down, looking towards the entrance ramp whilst drumming his fingers on the mat in a tune only he can follow as he waits for the Dark Prophet Crowley to arrive.
Emma Mason: Introducing first, from Perth, Scotland, weighing in at 185lbs, Daiko!
Chambers: The TV Title match however is next week, tonight Daiko has a massive test in another Legacy Title Tournament match in the form of the Dark Prophet, Crowley.
**Domination**
The lights go out as the Time Warner Cable Arena holds its breath and is covered in darkness with the screen playing flickering images in black and white of Crowley in various locations. As soon as the last bit of the solo ends and the breakdown starts Crowley appears from the curtain and there's a purple thin light following him as he walks down the ramp. Crowley's eyes catch Daiko in the ring and the Dark Prophet keeps his gaze on the Scotsman. The purple light surrounds the ring until he finally slides inside. Crowley finally enters the ring as the lights turn red with Crowley standing in the middle of it all with his head pointed to the sky. Gil Artman holds back Daiko who’s ready to attack.
Chambers: That entrance still sends shivers up and down my spine.
Campbell: Crowley has an aura that follows him around, this sense of dread you get every time you’re near the man.
Chambers: Bad things happen when you’re near Crowley, we’ve seen that time and time again. A man of darkness and mystery, Crowley is sadistic and cruel.
Campbell: Daiko shows no fear though. He is ready for this battle.
Chambers: This is an intriguing match, not one we’d normally see here in PWC, but with the Legacy Title Tournament in full effect, there’s a few very unlikely but exciting match ups to look forward to.
Emma Mason: And his opponent, from The Casalesi, Italy, weighing in at 210lbs, Crowley!
Campbell: Just so all our audience remember, these tournament matches are non-elimination. Even if someone loses they’ll still go through to the second round. What Brittany Page has promised us though is that the winners will receive a huge advantage in the next round.
Gil Artman signals for the bell.
**Match 3 | Daiko vs Crowley**
Crowley stalks Daiko, bending low and moving in towards his foe waiting for the right moment to strike. Daiko holds his ground, arms outstretched and ready to lock up. The Italian suddenly bursts into life slipping in with Daiko ready for the attack. Both men lock up in the middle of the ring, arms clasps around each other’s shoulders with each man trying to push the other back. The slightly bigger Crowley seems to have the early advantage, using his extra size to push Daiko back, but the Scotsman finds a way to hold his ground, planting his feet and pushing Crowley back for a moment. It’s a stalemate as both men fight to take the control. Daiko makes the first move, releasing his grip and attempting to score the go behind on his opponent, but the jet-heeled Crowley spins around and scores with a go behind of his own, as he wraps his arms around his adversary’s mid-section. Daiko claws at Crowley’s fingers trying to loosen the man’s grip but to no avail. Crowley looks to push him towards the ropes but Daiko uses his forward momentum to switch positions, drop down and quickly catch Crowley with the drop toe hold. The Italian hits the canvas and Daiko moves up and wraps his arms around his neck, holding him face down into the mat. Crowley pushes himself up and then goes to spin around and free himself from Daiko’s grip but No.1 Contender for the TV Title simply spins with his foe and regains control. With Daiko wrenching down and increasing the pressure on his neck and the real and present danger of being choked out, Crowley struggles to move himself towards the bottom rope with the full weight of his foe over him.
He finally manages to get Gil Artman to call for the break. Artman gets to a count of four with Daiko using up every second before finally releasing the hold. Both men sit up with Daiko wearing a pleased smile on his face after clearly getting the better of that opening exchange.
Both men slowly find their feet again and look to lock up once more. They move towards each other, but this time the black-hearted Crowley, having been out wrestled in the earlier exchange sees his chance and takes it, with Daiko letting his guard down for only a moment but enough time for Crowley to unleash a huge right hand that knocked Daiko back and down. The shocked Charlotte crowd let out a gasp as Daiko hits the mat with The Dark Prophet wasting no time in further attacking his foe, as he mounts the fallen man and smashes him with a series of heavy right hands and vicious elbows to the face. Daiko tries to cover up but his feral dog-like foe smells blood and continues to go for the kill with more the vicious blows. Crowley leaps to his feet and begins to pummel his opponent with stomps to the chest, then stomps to the body and then a brutal blow to the face with the bottom of his boot. Spit runs down the side of Crowley’s mouth, his eyes wild and his body heaving with anger, he continues his vicious assault with shot after brutal shot. He finally steps away, his twisted mouth forming an evil smile as he admires his handiwork with Daiko down and dazed after that brutal attack. Crowley hurtles towards and then runs the ropes before coming off and nailing Daiko with another violent blow, this time a boot to the skull. Daiko's eyes have a faraway look in them as the Italian continues the punishment. Crowley licks his lips in glee, savouring every second of the punishment he’s inflecting. He grabs Daiko and violently jerks the man to his feet, trapping his arm and placing him into position and then nailing the Falcon Arrow. Crowley transitions into the cover.
One…
Two..
Kickout! Artman signals that Daiko kicked out at two. Crowley wipes his mouth with the back of his hand, his eyes fixed on the prey lying before him. Again he stomps on his foe, two swift boots to the midsection, then to the face, before dragging Daiko to his feet once more. Crowley spins Daiko around and locks his arms behind him and sets him up for the Tiger Suplex. Crowley shifts his weight back and goes to throw Daiko but the Scotsman wraps his foot around Crowley’s and blocks the suplex attempt. Daiko switches positions, twirls around and hits a hip toss. Crowley leaps back up and rushes at his foe, but Daiko is ready this time, dropping down and hitting his foe coming in with the low shoulder tackle to the left leg. Crowley goes down clutching his leg with Daiko wasting no time in mounting his opponent, hooking in the leg lock and then raining down a barrage of stiff forearm strikes to the prone Crowley.
He smashes Crowley with shot after shot, pummeling his foe mercilessly and taking control. With Crowley’s legs trapped Daiko wastes no time in transitioning into the Heel hook and targeting his weakened left leg after the low shoulder tackle. Crowley screams out in pain and slaps the mat in disgust. Daiko urges Referee Artman to ask Crowley if he wants to give up with his foe shaking his head and screaming no. Daiko wrenching back forcing the pressure and looking to bring down as much force as he possibly can on Crowley’s left leg. The Doomsayer claws at the mat, and pulls himself towards the ropes looking to break the hold. Crowley edges closer to the ropes, inch by inch forcing his body forward and fighting the pain. Daiko realises his foe is close to the ropes and immediately releases the hold, leaps to his feet and pulls Crowley away again. The Italian tries to kick Daiko away with his good leg, but the pitbull like Scotsman won’t let him escape. He drops down, sending all his body weight into knee drop to spine, before locking in the Heel Hook one more time. Crowley considers quitting for the briefest moment, his hand held up as if to pound the mat, but the Dark Prophet refuses to give in, again he goes to claw towards the ropes and break up the submission attempt. Crowley scratches and claws and fights his way towards the ropes as he pulls Daiko and his entire frame with him, but The Scotsman won’t let go, he wrenches back again, grinding his teeth as he puts in as much force as he possibly can behind the vicious Heel Hook.
Crowley slams his fists into the mat, curses the crowd, the referee, the gods above and the demons below and most of all Daiko. He finally reaches the ropes and mercifully breaks the hold. Daiko just like Crowley before him, waits until the very last second to break the hold, utilizes every second of the four count the referee affords him. The Dark Prophet clutches his leg in pain, he tries to wiggle it and get the blood flowing again. Daiko takes a deep breath, still recovering from Crowley earlier attack. Again he pulls Crowley away from the ropes, This time his foe tries to fight him off, kicking the man away with his good leg. Daiko swats away the kicks disdainfully and attacks again, stomping on his opponent’s bad leg with hard shots to the back of the knee before placing the leg on the mat, jumping up and driving his knee into his ankle. Crowley screams out in pain, his voice like a wild animal caught in some trap. Daiko shows no mercy. He tells the Italian to shut up and tap.
He again goes for the Heel Hook, turning his foe around and setting him into position. Knowing how devastating another submission would be Crowley desperately tries to fight towards the ropes. Daiko jerks him back and goes for the vicious submission again. Crowley wriggles and fights and finally manages a kick to Daiko’s head. The Loner staggers back and Crowley uses the moment to try and hop his way to his feet, limply trying to protect his bad wheel. Daiko comes sprinting in but Crowley pushes him back with a forearm and hops his way into the corner to try and stave off anymore punishment. Daiko sees Crowley in the corner and his eyes light up. The Scotsman goes flying in with the Yakuza Kick, hitting Crowley right on the button. Crowley goes down like a ton of bricks. Daiko shoots the half and makes the cover.
One…
Two..
Thre…Kickout!
Crowley just manages to kick out in time. Daiko slaps the mat in frustration. Although neither man is a crowd favourite, the Time Warner Arena are engrossed in this battle of wills and hanging on every move. Crowley has a numb look in his eyes, the Yakuza kick knocking the man loopy. Daiko shakes his head. The Scotsman walks towards the corner and eyes his opponent feebly trying to find his feet again. He holds onto the ropes and ushers The Dark Prophet to his feet. His mouth finds a smile. A murmur ripples around the crowd as Charlotte realises what Daiko is planning. Crowley struggles his way to his knees. Daiko bursts from the corner looking to hit one of the most devastating finishing moves in all of PWC, the Boma Ye knee strike.
But NO! Crowley’s eyes catch Daiko hurtling towards him at the last second and the Italian drops down just in time. Daiko sails over his foe and misses. He leaps back to his feet and goes back for another attempt. Crowley somehow manages to find his feet on one good leg; he counters Daiko coming in with the DevilLock DDT. Daiko's head hits the mat and both men are down.
Crowley is breathing hard. He fights to a vertical base on one leg. He looks down at his foe, his dark eyes maddening in a blind rage at the punishment inflected upon him. He moves towards The Scotsman, but NO! Daiko grabs Crowley’s leg from ground and locks in the Heel Hook again. Crowley can’t believe it, the crowd can’t believe it. Crowley curses Daiko. The Scotsman won’t give an inch; he’ll gladly break this man’s left leg if he has to. They’re closer to the ropes this time, Crowley’s eyes find the bottom rope. It's so close yet so far, it’s his saviour and his only hope. He pulls himself towards it, he’s close and then he finally makes it. Crowley eyes are watering; he has found his sweet salvation. Daiko holds on to the leg with Gil Artman warning him to release the hold. Crowley pulls himself up using the ropes with Daiko’s hands still locked around his leg. Suddenly Daiko pulls Crowley away from the ropes by his leg and wraps his arms around his waist. Crowley’s eyes go wide as Daiko sends him over his head with the German Suplex!
Crowley is dazed with the back of his head hitting the mat. Daiko doesn’t go for the cover, pulling Crowley up and instead locking one of Crowley's arms behind his back and his own forearm across his chin for the Crossface Chickenwing!
The life seems to drain from Crowley as the moment goes by, Daiko tries to lock his legs around Crowley and pull him down, if he does this match is over.
Crowley knows it could be the end, that Daiko has him seconds away from defeat. He sees the ropes again, he sees his hope and grimacing through the pain plants his good leg into the mat and raises his bad leg towards the turnbuckle where he pushes himself off, his eyes glistening with tears as the pain shoots through every fiber of his being. Crowley pushes himself and Daiko to the canvas and contorts his body, with Daiko still holding on to the Chickenwing, but Daiko’s shoulders are pinned to the mat, Artman makes the count.
One…
Daiko doesn’t let go of the Chicken Wing.
Two…
His shoulder are pinned to the mat.
Three….It’s Over!
Winner: Crowley
**Domination**
Chambers: Oh my gawd, he pinned him.
Campbell: I can’t believe Crowley pulled that counter off. He just raised himself from the dead, it looked for all the money in the world that Daiko had him beat with the Chickenwing.
Chambers: Ladies and Gentlemen, we just witnessed a classic from two of the best PWC has to offer.
Campbell: Crowley earns the advantage in the next round of the tournament.
Referee Gil Artman signals for the bell, but Daiko won’t release the Chickenwing. He has his legs wrapped around Crowley’s body. The Dark Prophet eyes are rolling into the back of his head. Artman screams for Daiko to release the hold again.
Chambers: Daiko won’t release the Chickenwing.
Daiko holds on, he won’t release the Crossface Chickenwing and Crowley's body loses all resistance as the life seeps from him. Suddenly the lights go out.
The arena turns to silence for a moment, that feels like a lifetime. When the lights go back up Crowley’s Cult, thirteen dark hooded figures line up on the ramp and on the ring apron. Daiko sees the danger and immediately releases the Chickenwing as the dark figures move to enter the ring. The Scotsman ducks underneath the bottom rope, before slowly jumping over the barricade, as the dark figures fill the ring.
Campbell: We’ve seen the devastation Crowley’s cult has inflicted before, smart move leaving the ring from Daiko.
Daiko’s eyes meet Crowley’s almost lifeless ones in the ring. The dazed and beaten down Dark Prophet seems to have a rueful smile on his face, almost reveling in the pain his opponent inflicted upon him. The dark figures push Artman away and surround their beloved leader, then lift his body high in the air with Crowley’s arms and legs stretched out. They carry him with them down the ramp and into the darkness.
Chambers: That’s quite the….er, disturbing image. And Crowley did you see that smile, he seemed like he enjoyed the pain.
Campbell: Every single thing about Crowley is disturbing. You can be sure that Daiko just made an enemy for life tonight. Who knows, maybe these two will meet again during the course of the tournament, anything is possible.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
COMMERCIAL BREAK
Chambers: It's been one hellava night so far and we still don't really know what's next in this "unique" Legacy Championship tournament.
Campbell: I gotta say Stan I'm....
**Moby- New Dawn Fades**
As the unfamiliar music plays, both the commentators and the fans pause and stare in confusion toward the titantron. Soon enough, this pause is broken by thunderous boos as the words "AMERICAN SHINIGAMI" flash on the screen.
Chambers: Well it looks like Kyle Elric is coming out to ringside.
Campbell: Listen to these fans, Stan. Only a few short weeks ago, this guy was the most beloved wrestler in this company's history. They despise him now. These jeers are deafening!
Elric walks out on stage. He is wearing the Legacy Championship on backwards and upside down like he did on last's weeks episode. He laughs at the fans booing him as he twirls away showing that he is wearing the belt near his ass.
He outstretches his arms in his signature pose before he demands a microphone. The boos rain down on him and he enjoys them.
Elric: Okay okay, cut my music monkeys in the back. As for all you monkeys in the crowd, sit your asses down and zip those big mouths of yours shut coz Kyle Elric is talking.
The fans boo Elric even more and then a hue "Asshole" chant breaks out...
Elric looks around with a bemused expression, a slow grin breaking out on his face. He adjusts his dark shades before continuing-
Elric: You're damn right I am, but guess what? Unlike all of you, I'm still the best fighter in the world so show some respect. While you're munching down your next pack of Cheetos, I'm out here giving other dudes an ass whoopin' and making money. And do you know who pays to see me do that?
Elric pauses and slowly spins around with his arm outstretched, looking as happy as he's ever been.
Elric: Each and every one of you dumbasses, the PWC Universe!!!
Huge chants of "Elric sucks" drowns out the rest of his words, forcing him to stop again. Elric finally takes his shades off to reveal cold, steely blue eyes and stares straight into the camera.
Elric: Now, to the very sexy and oh so filled out in all the right places Miss Brittany Page. Oh hit me baby one more time, Page wants me to give this little ... Er.. Trinket back to her, so she can run some exciting new tournament. A tournament I'm in by the way. Next week I'll be kicking some unlucky fool's head in.
So Miss Page bring those curves down here and if you ask me nicely you might get what you want. Come on, come come come... The way I see it, this entire tournament exists because of me. All of the fools in the back have a fighting chance at this consolation prize because I did what none of them could. Show that bitch Cheri that this is a MAN's world and women do not belong.
The fans, especially the ladies cut him off again, disgusted at the misogyny and dickishness of the former champ. Elric points at an attractive female in the front row-
Elric: That's right sweetheart. In the kitchen or on their back, that's when you're the most useful.
So, Brittany Page, strut your stuff down here coz I'm getting bored. Come on!!
Chambers: Ladies and gentlemen, we apologize!! It's live TV and an open mic, but we'd just like to make it clear that Kyle Elric's sick, sexist views are his own and PWC, in no way, endorses or condones any of that.
Out walks Page, no music or fanfare, and with a look of determination she steps into the ring and stands face to face with Elric.
Page: Mr Elric, thank you for coming out here and I will be taking that title now so I can get on with producing this innovative new tournament concept and Vortex can continue on its current proceedings.
Elric scoffs at Page's technical babble and corporate speak.
Elric: Oh Brittany. I know I'm a wanted man but I said you have to ask me nicely.
Page: .... Mr. Elric, may I please take possession of the current vacant Legacy championship title belt?
Elric: Ooh yea see Brittany, I prefer my women on their knees when they're asking me for something. That shoudn't be a problem for you. That's how BIG ERNIE gave you the "job" didn't he?
The crowd boo this asshole's disgusting comment when...
**#7BW Official Beat**
The crowd go up as one as finally someone has come out to even things up in this whole exchange.
"KEN-DALL KEN-DALL KEN-DALL KEN-DALL"
Out walks Marcus and he has a microphone and doesn't look to happy. The fans though are happy to see him and even though the rapper from London tries to speak the cheers drown him out so he goes with it for a few seconds.
Kendall: Thanks peeps but I have something to say. I was sitting in the back preparing for my match when a huge stench hit me. I mean it was like a sewer pipe had broke or something. But then I realised it was you two out here. This whole thing right here, to me, it stinks!
The fans pop! They must agree with him.
Kendall: Elric, man you're nothing but a creep. I knew something was up when you tried to lay the blame on Cheri's attack on me, son. But now the world knows you're nothing but an asshole. As for you Miss Page. This guy takes out Cheri, and you don't even give her time to heal up before you take her title off her? Better yet you oust her being the bosses daughter on TV when you knew she wanted to keep that quiet and win on her own merits. Uh uh this whole thing stinks man.
Elric: Hey Kendall, you should be thanking me. By being in this tournament you finally get to at least be in the running for a title you choker. In case you've been living in some raining shithole city like London or something and don't know, I'm the longest reigning PWC Heavyweight Champion in history. You want this little trinket punk, good luck, because you got Nero tonight and you're once again going to have to step to the back of the line. But you're used to that boy.
Kendall: I tell you what karate man, why don't I come down there and whoop your ass right now, huh?!
Kendall starts making his way down the ramp and the crowd pop and chant his name again.
Page: Please stop. Mr Kendall, you are in my main event tonight and I can't have that ruined. But I'm very disappointed in you and your lack of respect towards the office of.....
Kendall: Disrespect???? I'm gonna have to cut you off there honey. What about the disrespect that guy in the ring is giving that Championship and you? What about the disrespect you gave Clement tonight? What about the fact that not only didn't you suspend or fire that asshole standing next to you for what he did to Cheri Hayven, you put him in this damn tournament??? Huh? What's up with that???
Page: MISTER Kendall, airing all these grievances on worldwide television is unacceptable. I would suggest you be more concerned with your match against Dr Nero this evening. We all know you're going to need it..
Kendall is not amused by that comment. The crowd can't believe it and Elric simply starts laughing!
Elric: hahaha. Hey babe that's funny, I love a girl with a sense of humour, even though she's right Marcus. Here's your pretty little trinket Brittany. You've made my night already. I've got to run anyway. I want to get a good seat to watch my new best buddy, old pal Dr. Nero dismember little Marcus here like Lego blocks. So long Kendall.
Elric throws the belt at Page's feet and rolls out of the ring. He sees Kendall blocking the entrance ramp so he jumps the guardrail and walks off through the crowd. Page collects the belt and Kendall is mad as hell as Vortex goes to commercial.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
COMMERCIAL BREAK
Chambers: Welcome back to Vortex. Well last week our own Dan Eriksen had a one on one interview with the man they call Shadow. Well during that interview it seems that he removed his mask and asked Dan to give it Crowley...
Campbell: Well we’ll soon find out if Shadow has truly unmasked because we are going to ringside and he will face off against someone who also wears a mask, the deadly, the violent and out of control - El Cara de la Fantasma!
Mason: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is part of the Legacy Championship unique opportunity Tournament!!! Introducing first from Mexico - El Caraaaaa DE LA FantasmAAAAAAAA!
***Maldito Bastardo***
The crowd hear the music and those in the ringside seats seem to sit right back hoping, praying the vicious luchador doesn’t come anywhere near them on the way to the ring! La Cara crawls out onto the stage on all fours. Like a komodo dragon he rocks his head back and forth, before leaping to his feet and throwing his robe off his shoulders! He surveys the sea of fans before him before slowly moving down the ramp. He walks side to side coming close to the fans and even stopping to concentrate on particular fan who cowers away from him. He pauses and stares. The upper decks of the arena boo him for intimidating the poor guy! Cara closes his eyes and raises his head as if he was sniffing, breathing in all the fear around him, as if it were aroma coming from a freshly made meal.
Cara then snaps out of it, smiles and skulks down to ringside and slides under the bottom rope, crawling into the centre of the ring. The lights then go out and the entrance music of Cara’s opponent begins.
***Dark Side***
The eerie intro echoes throughout the arena. A very dim light illuminates the stage, as it and the ramp fill with mist. The mist bursts into fumes of smoke and suddenly bursting through the smoke surrounded by a flashing white light with wide eyes, we see the face behind the mask!
Mason: His opponent!!!! New York City, New York!!!! Weighing in 210 pounds- ShaaaaaaaDOOOOWWWW!!!
Shadow has revealed himself on Vortex!!! The fans pop to see him for the first time!!! He walks around the ring to the far right ring post and climbs up it from the outside. He stares down at Cara has not give up the centre of the ring. Shadow raises his right arm slowly and looks to the sky before leaping to the mat and going almost nose to nose with the man who still wears a mask...
The ref gets in between them and calls for the bell!!!
**Match 4 | El Cara de la Fantasma vs Shadow**
The new looking Shadow does not back down to Cara who is trying to intimidate him with fiery eyes and expletives in Spanish. Cara gives Shadow some heavy pokes in the chest, which Shadow looks out to the crowd to get their thoughts on them...
Shadow bitch slaps the masked man to tell him what he and the fans think of this bully! Cara can’t believe it, everyone, even the monster Derek Jacobs has taken a backward step to him. Shadow can be heard saying something like he took on Crowley at Last Rites before he hits the ropes behind him and flying into a head scissors and then bringing Cara down on top of his head!!! Pure poetry in motion!
The crowd go crazy as Cara slips out of the ring looking rattled... But Shadow hits the ropes again sails through the second rope nailing a suicide dive!!!! Cara’s spine hits the guardrail as the fans go crazy for the new Shadow!!!
Campbell: Wow!!! Stan it looks like by taking off his mask he’s gone to a whole new level!!!
Chambers: He sure has! Listen to this crowd!! ..... Uh Oh!
Cara rakes the eyes! Grabs Shadow by his face and then hits a flying cutter leaping over the guardrail and smashing the face and neck of the man from the Darkside into the steel!!!! The crowd let out a thunderous “OOOOOH!!!” from the vile shot!
Chambers: Bah Gawd he’s hurt CC! Shadow needs to realise he doesn’t have anything protecting his eyes anymore.
Campbell: Forget that Stan, he needs to realise that if you go to the outside with Cara you are in his world, and you’re gonna pay the price! And he has!
Cara is in the crowd looking down at Shadow who is holding his face on the other side of the rail. Cara bashes the side of his head to wake himself up. He snarls at his opponent and jumps over the rail and lands a heavy stomp to the head! The crowd are booing the sadistic luchador as he grabs Shadow by his hair and launches him head first into the steel steps!!! Cara is in complete control now and knows it by licking his lips and roars, taunting the fans.
The former underground cage fighter rolls his opponent back into the ring and ascends the turnbuckles. He gives the “slashes his throat” with his hand sign and leaps into the air with Death From Above! The Swanton Bomb connects... with knees from Shadow!!!! The knees drive right into Cara’s spine and he bows up in extreme pain! Shadow staggers to his feet, holding his head. Cara gets to his feet only to eat a step up Enzaguri!!! Cara is rocked but he doesn’t fall. Shadow hits several backhand chips forcing Cara back. Irish whip off the ropes, but Cara reverses it. Thorws a big right hand, which Shadow ducks, he hits the corner walks up the turnbuckles flies off them and lands an amazing Tornado DDT!!!!!
Cara’s head bounces off the mat and from the force and velocity of the move, his whole body is sent crashing into the opposite corner!!!
Shadow punches the air, drags Cara to the middle of the ring and makes the cover! 1...2.... Cara rolls the shoulder! Shadow steps to the apron and awaits Cara to get back to his feet... Springboard crossbody!!! Cara ducks and Shadow crashes and burns!
Cara slinks in the corner trying to shake off the DDT, while Shadow grabs his chest in pain. The masked marauder knows he can’t waste any more time and lunges at the man in black and sets for his Crucifix Lungblower... but Shadow uses his size advantage and with all his strength hits a big back body drop! Cara’s lower back is hurt again. Shadow has found his target, but Cara fights through the pain and lashes out with a knife edge chop to the throat! Shadow grabs his neck and Cara uses a brutal headbutt! Shadow is staggered and is then smashed by a Single knee facebuster!!!
Cover!!!! 1..
2...
Kickout!!!
Snap leg drop across the throat! Cara has also found a target it seems! Cara shoves his fingers into the eye sockets of New York native. “ARRRRRRGGGGGHHHH!!!”, The ref admonishes Cara for his act, but runs off when Cara shoots him an evil look...
Shadow is blinded and he is having trouble breathing and he walks straight into a Rolling Elbow!!!!
Cover!!! 1.2.NO!!!
Shadow kicks out again!!!
El Cara wants to finish this now and calls for his Spike DDT but as he holds Shadow’s head, he is quickly turned to his side, his wrist grabbed and eats a short arm clothesline! Shadow goes back to the apron and again goes for the springboard flying cross body... Cara gets to his feet, but he’s not sure where his opponent is and he has his back to the man from the dark side. Shadow launches himself and this time it connects with the lower back of Cara!!!
The crowd are on their feet as Shadow scoop slams Cara on that targeted back! Cara reaches back to grab where the excruciating pain is coming from. Shadow locks in a camel clutch, isolating the lower back and looking for the submission. Cara roars in pain but refuses to tap. His pain threshold is beyond any normal PWC competitor. Shadow knows this and releases the hold and gives a big stomp to the bullseye. Shadow ascends the turnbuckles ... Cara is in too much pain to get off his stomach.
DARKNESS FALLS DOUBLE FOOTSTOMP!!!!!
It violently connects with the lowerback of Cara instead of the usual chest of Shadow’s victims... Hook of the leg!!!
1...
2..
3!
Winner: Shadow @ 9:53
Shadow grabs the back of his head when the ref comes to raise his hand in victory. He has a sly smile knowing that his transformation was the right course of action after defeating such a feared opponent. He looks over at Cara who is very much conscious. The terrifying eyes of Cara look up at Shadow vowing revenge. The finisher hitting the lower back had momentarily paralysed Cara and he was unable to lift a shoulder or use his lower back to kickout....
Shadow backs away, now that the fight is done, he realises how dangerous Cara actually is. From the mat the masked men spits at Shadow telling him it’s not over between them, and that now that he knows his face, he wants to cut it off and nail it to his wall....
Shadow drops out of the ring and heads up the ramp a little disturbed by this, never the less he has won the match and moves on in this fairly ambiguous Legacy Championship tournament!
Highlights of the Legacy tournament matches thus far are shown, including Derek Jacobs' attack on Austin Angel, followed by Bruce Thorn's victory, Gust triumphing over Flexx, Crowley's win over Daiko and Shadow vanquishing El Cara.
Chambers: And now it’s time for our main event of the evening.
Campbell: We’ve got ourselves a first time one-on-one match up Stan, and quite frankly it’s giving me goose bumps.
Chambers: You said it partner. We saw what Marcus Kendall is capable of at Last Rites. I think children are still having nightmares after that one. And well Nero having tasted real defeat for the first time has become even more aggressive. This is probably not going to be a wrasslin’ match, it’s going to be a fight!
Mason: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is part of the unique Legacy Championship tournament. Introducing first from Seattle, Washington, weighing in at 241 pounds. He is the God Complex! Doctoooooooooooooooooooor Neeeeeerrrooooooooooooooooo!
The arena suddenly goes dark and the fans begin to stir, they know who’s coming out and are ready...
***Requiem for a Dream***
As Nero’s theme grows louder and louder the boos begin to rumble. The spotlight hits the entrance ramp, and as always out walks the small brigade of Nero’s dressed in head to toe riot gear sentries. Each with a flag bearing Nero’s sigil.
Ellie is still wearing black or the mourning of losing the Heavyweight title, leads out her man, the new looking Nero. His head all but shaved, his face adorned in a heavy five o’clock shadow and his nose still damaged.
Campbell: Can I care to speculate Stan? Look at Nero’s nose. Although he’s not allowed to practice anymore, the guy is a surgical genius. Don’t you think he would have tried to fix his broken nose? Especially as we know how vain this guy is...
Chambers: That’s a great point CC. His whole look has changed. Actually the former Champion of the World’s whole demeanour has changed. He’s usually the coolest cucumber in the room. He has shown nothing but rage since he lost that title two weeks ago.
Ellie sits on the ropes to allow Nero to step through them without touching. Ellie removes Nero’s scrubs his shirt.
Campbell: Another thing Stan. Isn’t this the part when Ellie puts on his surgical gloves. Look at his hands. They are all bandaged up. Looks like he got in a fight with a brick wall.
Ellie steps back and they both await their opponent. Nero stands in the middle of the ring, making a statement that all of it belongs to him. The lights black out again and the beat slowly builds in and gets louder.
Mason: His opponent from London England, weighing in at 225 pounds. London’s Worst Nightmare... Marcussssss KENdaaaaaaaaaallllll!!!
***#7BW Official Beat***
A swarm of smoke builds up around the entrance creating a dark and consuming atmosphere as the aggression in the music kicks in. A single spotlight hits the stage and starts flashing frantically as Marcus's music producer's vocal effects slide into the beat. The first trap beat crushes the speakers and out comes a dark figure dressed all in black revealed to be Marcus Kendall. He has his trademark hoodie up with a black bandanna covering his face. His cold dark eyes stare down the ramp as he slowly makes his way to the ring with a purpose, ignoring all the fans around him. He slides into the ring and pulls his hood down. And goes right after Nero!!!
Rights and lefts are targeted at Nero’s chin as London’s Worst Nightmare sets upon the former champion of the world! The sold out crowd has exploded!!! They are going crazy for Kendall!
Chambers: Heavy shots from Kendall! He’s not waiting for the bell, he is a house of fire!
Campbell: He’s not taking any chances Stan, the Surgeon will take you apart if you let him.
Chambers: He’s not intimidated he’s going right after him... OH! A vicious Euro uppercut lands on Nero’s chin!!! He’s down! Nero’s down!
Ellie had to quickly escape the ring as Kendall pounces on the fallen Nero. Big heavy hammer fists hit their mark as Nero covers up! Kendall is going after the nose and is imposing his will in this fight. The Doctor frantically kicks and pushes away from his opponent squirming his back across the mat to finally gets salvation form the ropes. He rolls out of the ring and heads for cover, as Kendall comes straight after him.
Nero’s eyes are tearing up and he desperately tries to shake the dizziness he’s feeling. Kendall though follows him out, he will not let up and lands a thunderous lariat to the back of Nero’s neck, sending the God Complex crashing violently into barricade! Kendall puts the boots to a downed Nero, but the one Nero’s sentries steps in front of Kendall. This gives time for the ref to finally stop the pre-match beat down. He warns Kendall that he’ll call off the match and for him to get in the ring.
Kendall is fired up, he has the advantage, but he knows the bell hasn’t sounded yet and he is forced to get back in the ring. Ellie runs over to check on her man as PWC Vortex goes to commercial.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
COMMERCIAL BREAK
Chambers: We are back live and Dr Nero is finally getting back in the ring. He has been rocked but it seems he wants to continue.
Campbell: Kendall is on a mission tonight. He’s fighting fire with fire. He, like all of us, know what Nero is capable of. Cheap shots, having Ellie provide distractions. Kendall is out here and he won’t be intimidated by the former champ, he’s here to win, he’s out here to show Nero and the PWC office that he is one of the elite fighters in the sport today.
Nero is back in the ring and the ref checks on him. He then asks Kendall, who is like a rapid dog on a very short leash and he orders the bell to ring...
***Main Event | Dr Nero vs Marcus Kendall***
The crowd pops again and Kendall comes fling out of the blocks, but just like that, Nero rolls out of the ring. The fans turn from screams of joy to boos, as Nero is now commanding the pace. Kendall wont allow this and sticks his head through the ropes ... BOOM! Nero using Ellie’s eyes as guidance turns with a vicious spinning elbow smash right to Kendall’s temple! Like a t-shirt on a washing line, Kendall is hanging in between the ropes...
Chambers: BAH GAWD WHAT A SHOT!
Campbell: He’s out Stan! Nero has knocked him out!
Nero gets back on the apron and scrapes his boot on Marcus’ face pushing back on to the mat. Nero with an evil smile makes the cover...
Chambers: It’s over!
1
2
NO! Kendall grabs the bottom rope. Nero sits up he gazes over at Kendall’s hand grasping the rope in desperation and nods his head. He drags Kendall to his knees and signals for the end, Time of Death time. Kendall though grabs Nero’s ankle as desperately as he did the rope to stop his own demise. Nero looks out into the sea of fans and then hits a big time knee lift, runs the ropes and hits a big knee strike to the face! Kendall is smashed again and flies backwards with such force he hits the ropes and falls through them , hits his back onto the apron and falls to the floor.
The boos are deafening now as Nero outstretches his arms. He tells the ref to count...1..2..3..4..5..6..7.. Kendall spits some blood from his mouth...8...9... he rolls back in and immediately backs himself into a corner. Nero watche son as Kendall finally has time to remove his hoodie... revealing the bandages on his body he still has from the Ultra-Violence match. Nero is now a very happy man. He smiles and almost breaks out into laughter. His surgical skills now have targets.
Chambers: Nero studies his opponents very well so he probably already knew about these injuries. But I think he wants Kendall to know what he has in store for him.
Campbell: We’ve got some monsters here in PWC, but when it comes to zeroing in on a body part, there is no one more sadistic than Dr Jason Nero...
Kendall looking determined puts his hands up, he is ready to lock up, his earlier advantage is gone, but he knows he has hurt Nero, and Nero has a big bullseye of his own, that broken nose.
Ellie suddenly gets up on the ring apron, and for a split second, Kendall’s eyes shift to his right hands side... Nero strikes another big forearm smash looking for that temple again. Kendall gets his arm up trying to stop the shot, but it’s still a heavy blow. Irish whip out of the corner sends the Englishman into the opposite corner sternum first. The shock goes through his chest. He bounces out grabbing his chest out of instinct and braces himself because he knows something’s coming... a lethal dropkick to the back of his head connects! The impact is devastating and the shot only hits the back of Kendall’s skull but it also drives him face first into the canvas!
Nero slithers into the cover... turning Kendall onto his back... 1...2... Kendall punches the air, lifting the shoulder, fighting to show what he can do! He is rattled, he has been out thought by the devious Nurse Ellie... He tries to get to his feet, but as he does Nero is now after all those beautiful bandaged wounds. He chicken wings Kendall’s arm behind him and hammers heavy blows into the wrapped up shoulder! The pressure on the arm and shoulder could pop a normal man’s arm from its socket and Kendall furiously runs to the ropes putting his leg through the bottom rope.
The ref admonishes Nero to release the hold. He does putting his hands in the air, only for Ellie to nail Kendall behind the knee with an elbow of her own. Nero then baseball slides under the bottom rope and grabs Kendall’s knee and hits a cruel dragon screw leg whip through the ropes! The pain is immeasurable as the rapper is forced to cry out in pain and squirm around in the middle of the ring...
The boos for Nero keep coming as he keeps taunting the fans.
Chambers: We’ve said it before, but ever since losing that title, Nero is no longer some robotic, perfect wrestling machine. The guy is out for blood. Wins and losses were so important to him. Now he is really out to hurt people!
Nero zeroes in on the knee he just whipped and lands several stomps. Nero even tells the ref to ask Kendall “ASH HIM!” Kendall tells the ref to have sex with himself and hobbles to a corner. Nero methodically walks over and looks to extract more pain... but with everything he’s got.... Kendall explodes off his haunches! The crowd comes alive as he fights back with big euro uppercut and then another. Hopping on one leg he he swings violently, Nero ducks it and Kendall is caught. Half nelson... no! Kendall powers out and clotheslines down Nero!
He roars as Nero gets to his feet.. SUPERKICK CONNECTS! Nero’s jaw is rocked and he falls like a tree! Cover!!
1
2
NO! Nero pushes away. Kendall punches the mat in frustration. He grabs Nero in yells something in his face before dropping an atom bomb of a elbow strike right into the broken nose of the Doctor! The pick-up Michinoku Driver!!!
1...2... Nero kicks out again! The fans are fired up, Kendall is calling for all their energy.
The fans know what’s coming, the Running Buisaki Knee... BODIED!!!
NO!! Nero swats the knee away. Kendall’s hurt knee betrayed him. He wasn’t quick enough...
Nero hits the kick to the gut under hooks the arms! SCALPEL connects!!! Kendall’s face is driven into the mat.
1
2
KENDALL KICKS OUT!!!!!!
Campbell: I can’t remember the last time someone kicked out of the Scalpel Stan!
Chambers: Marcus Kendall, the UK’s favourite son refuses to die here on Vortex! Progressing in the he Legacy title tournament is at stake and his heart will not stop!
Nero is sitting on the mat in shock. Blood drips from his nose from the Kendall’s previous shot. Nero’s look turns to anger and he violently front face locks his opponent to bring his to his feet. He calls for the end, but Kendall in some adrenaline rush show of defiance, maybe instinct counters the hold ... LIGHTS OUT BLOODY SUNDAY DDT!!!!!!!!!
1
2
NO!
Nero kicks out at 2 and 9/10’s!
Both men are out on the mat as the fans are so loud the building might come down on top of everyone. The both stir and try desperately to get on their feet. Kendall is up first and sees Nero, he is ready, he sets for his Knee strike again... it’s now or never!
Ellie jumps up on the apron! The ref runs over to tell her to get down... Nero’s sentry from before runs into the ring and hits a picture perfect Enzaguri!
Chambers: What the hell!!! Nero’s guards have ever gotten involved before!?!?!?
The fans boo and the sentry with lightning speed turns the dazed Kendall into a VERTEBREAKER!!!!! Marcus is folded up like an accordion. The sentry rolls out of the ring as the ref finally gets Ellie down and turns around. The crowd is livid when the sentry removes his helmet and mask to reveal...
Chambers: KYLE ELRIC!!!! THAT SONOVABITCH!!!!
Elric has the biggest shit eating grin on his face as he laughs to himself. Ellie gives him a high five! Nero shakes away the cob webs and grabs Kendall. He picks him up and drops him in the centre of the ring with TIME OF DEATH!!!
It’s academic!
1.2.3...
Winner: Dr Nero at 11:21
The boos are astronomical as Elric and Ellie join their team mate in the middle of the ring. Both of them raise his hand as the former champion of the world looks smugly down at Kendall. Ellie kisses her man and then all three of them taunt the fans by climbing the turnbuckles.
Nuclear heat rains down on them as they leave the ring... all except Elric. He’s having too much fun tonight... He stands over Kendall and gives the unconscious fighter a few words before slapping him across the face. Elric flexes his biceps and laughs before joining his team on the ramp who stand there awaiting him.
Campbell: I don’t know if there’s anyone who can stop these two Stan....
We cut to backstage again where Donald Hammerpunch is walking around backstage. He looks at the different stage hands and PWC staff hard at work but the Champion seems to be pensive for some reason. He beckons to one of the staff.
Hammerpunch: Hello sir, I’m looking for two young men, you might know them, they’re my students Steve and Tim. Have seen them by any chance?
Staffer: Sorry Champ, I haven’t seen them anywhere. I can ask around though.
Hammerpunch: Oh, I would appreciate that greatly. My Championship Faceoff with Ivory is moments away and neither Tim nor Steve is answering their phones. I’m actually starting to get worried, it’s not like them to disappear like that.
The Champion bows to the staffer and continues on his way.
The cameras cut back to the Time Warner Cable Arena floor as we hear the voice of Stan Chambers. Danny Eriksen is also in the ring ready to get proceedings for the Championship Faceoff under way.
Chambers: Next we’ve got a special event that been eagerly anticipated since it was announced. Our World Heavyweight Champion, Donald Hammerpunch and his No.1 Contender Ivory will face off for the first time since the events of last week.
Campbell: Last week ended with Ivory attacking Donald Hammerpunch after his gruelling tag team match where he teamed with Jensen against the newly formed super team of Dr. Nero and Kyle Elric. Ivory took advantage of the situation and took out the World Champion.
Chambers: Oh yes, the World Champion faces the might of Nero who’s promised to never rest until Hammerpunch is no longer champion and also Ivory who is as dangerous as they come.
Campbell: You can ask Gino Galucci how dangerous Ivory can be, he ended Gino’s career and showed absolutely no remorse for his actions. The funny thing is, if you look around this crowd, there are many Ivory signs and t-shirts. For all the horrible things he’s done, people still gravitate towards him for some reason.
Chambers: Ivory isn’t a man to be trifled with, but we heard our World Champion earlier tonight. He holds no fear for Ivory or for Nero. He promises to be a World Champion we can all be proud of, he promis…..
**Still Fly**
Ivory familiar music hits as half the crowd in Charlotte burst into ovation for the enigmatic and controversial star. The music keeps playing but Ivory doesn’t seem to be coming out.
Chambers: That’s strange, we know Kira Wells couldn’t find Ivory for an interview earlier tonight, but his music played so the No.1 Contender should be out here by now.
Campbell: Well Ivory is a maverick if ever there was one, he’ll be out here and giving interviews when….look at that, what the hell….
The cameras pan up to the entrance ramp where Ivory stands with two lifeless bodies, one is slang over his shoulder, the other he drags by the collar behind him. Ivory makes his way down to the ring with a his signature cocky grin etched all over his face. The camera zooms into the faces of the bodies he drags with him sparking some members of the audience to let out shrieks of terror. Charlie Campbell and Stan Chambers are distraught on commentary.
Chambers: That’s…..that’s Hammerpunch’s students Steve and Tim.
Campbell: I don’t know what to say.
Tim and Steve seem to be unconscious. Ivory lifts both men into the ring with a terrified Danny Eriksen shocked to a standstill waiting to conduct the World Championship Faceoff. Ivory grabs the microphone from Eriksen’s hands and tells the PWC reporter to get out of the ring. Danny scurries away as fast as he can. Ivory pulls the lifeless Tim up to his feet and puts a foot on Steve’s chest and stands over him.
**War Machine**
Hammerpunch’s music hits and the World Champion sprints down to the ring, with rage and desperation painted all over his face.
Chambers: Thank goodness, Hammerpunch is here to stop this madness.
Ivory extends a hand out and puts the microphone to his lips before Hammerpunch is even halfway down the ramp.
Ivory: I wouldn’t get any further if I were you, Champ. Not unless you want your little students to get hurt.....well get even more hurt.
Ivory chuckles to himself as Hammerpunch stops in his tracks, knowing the danger facing his two students. Hammerpunch extends a hand of his own to try and reason with Ivory, a crew member hands him a mic.
Hammerpunch: Ivory, I'm warning you, this is about you and me and this title.
Hammerpunch points to the title belt around his waist.
Hammerpunch: My students, Steve and Tim, they have nothing to do with this. They’re innocents in all this, let them go.
Ivory laughs to himself, he shakes his head at the Champion incredulously.
Ivory: You’re right, this is about that title. My title....very soon. But it’s so much more than that, Champ. It’s about what you are, or rather what you pretend to be.
Hammerpunch has a confused look on his face, Ivory continues before he can reply.
Ivory: You’re an addict Hammerpunch, just like me, just like the people that chant my name. You can pretend to be this holier-than-thou, self-righteous boy scout for Clement and Page and all those so called fans of yours, but I know the truth about you. You’re an addict, an addict for these people’s adulation. Your rush is them chanting your name.
You’re an addict for people like Timmy and Steven over here, who follow you around and worship the stinking ground you walk on. But what happens when someone comes along and takes it all away? What do you do when you can’t get your fix, or when all you are is stripped away? What do you become then?
I think you’re a coward Hammerpunch, afraid to admit what you truly are. You pretend to be better than me but you’re not, we’re the same you and I and after all this is said and done, I’ll take your title yes. But I’ll also show the world the liar and fraud are.
Ivory smiles at Hammerpunch, his eyes fleck with rage and in one smooth motion, with Hammerpunch’s horse voice screaming for him to stop, he lifts Tim up in the air and hits the Life to Lifeless right onto Steve.
Hammerpunch sprints into ring with Ivory slipping underneath the bottom rope and out before he can. He grins at the Champion.
Hammerpunch has his hands on his head; he can’t believe what Ivory just did. He motions to go after Ivory but the No.1 Contender is already halfway up the ramp. The Champion screams for help for his students.
Some boos fill the crowd for Ivory but soon those boos are drowned out by thunderous “Ivory” chants. Hammerpunch looks at the crowd, in utter disbelief that some of them would support this man after what he just did.
PWC medical personal fill the ring and attend to Tim and Steve. Ivory gives one last cocky grin as he makes his way up the ramp. Hammerpunch’s eyes lock with his Challenger as Vortex goes off the air.