Pride 29

[FGA Office]

07.29.16
Hanes Gym at Greensboro College
Greensboro, NC
AxxessNet

Geoff Penzer: Hello everyone and welcome to another installment of PRIDE! I am your host, Geoff Penzer! We just came off of a great supercard in “Bound by Honor” where we saw a title retained, titles won and a title match end without a winner. What lies ahead in the futures of Nest, Jensen Banks, The Crimson Baroness and Keegan Hightower? We hope to have the answers to those questions here tonight!

Speaking of tonight, we’ve got another exciting show to bring to you guys.

In one of our featured contests, Josh Mitchell goes one on one with newcomer Rab McKinley in a Title Eliminator! Both of these men have been climbing the ladder over the past several weeks. Both men have looked good in the ring. But they’re not quite ready to challenge Jensen Banks for his Old North Championship. Which one of these two men will come one step closer to earning that coveted Title Match?

In our co-main event, Prince MacRear takes on Pedro Gonzales! After losing big match after big match, Prince MacRear was finally able to get over the hump by winning the Carolina Cup at “Bound by Honor.” Will that momentum carry him into tonight’s match? Or will he be bested by “Mexico City’s Favorite Son”?

In our main event, Jensen Banks faces off against Terrence Tillman in non-title action! These two men fought roughly two months ago. But the ending of that match was ruined by The Systemic’s attack on Banks. Now, these two go at it once again. Tonight, we will find out who is the better man. Is it the self-proclaimed Pride of LDFC? Or is it our reigning Old North Champion? Find out tonight!

[FGA Office]

The match starts with both competitors circling, and Malcolm Pope pointing and yelling on the outside. Pope’s continued harassment distracts Maritza momentarily allowing Miles to move in and catch her with a dropkick and a clothesline. Bishop then slaps on a chinlock and crows at the crowd while Pope applauds on the outside. Maritza would eventually power up and out, placing a few well-timed elbows into the ribs of Bishop. Diaz goes for the Irish whip, but Miles reverses and catches her with a shoulder block on the rebound. Bishop quickly picks her up and latches on a vertical suplex, but Maritza blocks it and reverses into a vertical suplex of her own. She looks over at Pope and shakes her head. She winks at the crowd and picks up Miles backing him into a corner and unleashes several crisp knife edge chops before hip tossing him out of the corner and showing off her muscles for the crowd.

As the match continues, Maritza continues to press her advantage with a well-placed knee lift and a clothesline that took Bishop over the top ropes and all the way to the arena floor. Miles is clearly shaken by all this and gets up to regroup. Malcolm Pope gets in his ear and points toward the back, telling his client Diaz wasn’t worth it. As the referee begins to count, the two of them start to walk to the back. Maritza has her hands on her hips and shakes her head. She rolls out of the ring and power walks up to them, banging their heads together and drags Miles back to the ring rolling him in. She sits back and lets Miles get up, and then takes him down with a bicycle knee. Maritza covers but only gets a two count.

Maritza picks Bishop up and Irish whips him into the ropes, but he ducks a clothesline on the rebound and wheels around, spinning Maritza in the process and blasting her with some knife edge chops. He boots her and grabs her up, running across the ring and smacking her face into the mat with a bulldog. He goes up top and leaps down on Maritza with a diving leg drop. Covering, that only gets two. Changing up his tactics he applies a crossface, wrenching at the arm and neck. Maritza kicked at the mat, in obvious pain but somehow manages to crawl little by little to the bottom rope and gets her fingers on the bottom rope as Malcolm Pope looks on disgusted. Bishop breaks at the count of four and Maritza pulls herself up using the ropes, but Bishop slides in and takes her down from behind with a schoolboy roll-up, but that only gets two. Bishop whips her hard into the corner, and then goes for a hip toss but Maritza blocks it and reverses into a hip toss of her own.

Maritza picks him up and nails several more chops and then takes him down with a hangman’s neckbreaker. Focusing on the neck, she wraps her impressively muscled legs around him and applies a figure four necklock, cranking away at it as Bishop writhes on the mat. Bishop kicks his legs furiously, and it looks like Maritza has him. As the referee is up by his face checking for a tapout, Pope leans under the ropes and drags Miles' foot over to the bottom rope. The ref turns and sees this and calls for the break. Maritza saw the whole thing and complains to the ref and then she goes over to jaw with Pope. Bishop rubs at his throat and runs over looking for the rolling cutter. But Maritza wriggles free and slips behind Bishop, grabbing him up and driving him into the mat with an inverted powerslam. She rolls him over and hooks the leg, staring bullets at Malcolm Pope as the referee counts three.

Winner: Maritza Diaz

[FGA Office]

[FGA Office]

“99 Problems” by Hugo plays throughout the arena as the crowd begins to boo. Hank Simmons makes his way through the curtains without even pausing to pose, instead opting to march straight to the ring.

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall. Introducing first, from San Antonio, Texas, weighing in at 265 pounds … "BIG" HANK SIMMONS!

He climbs up the steps and enters through the middle rope, before taking a place in the corner as he awaits his opponent.

The psychedelic blues rock of "End of the Line" by Frijid Pink begins to play, and out walks Echo in her sleeveless bell bottom jumpsuit, floppy hat and sunglasses. She flashes peace signs and laid back smiles to the crowd as she saunters down to the ring, climbs on the apron and walk down the edge of it blowing kisses to the crowd.

Melanie Sierra: And his opponent, from Tucson, Arizona! Weighing in at 131 pounds! She is “THE PEACEMAKER” ECHO RIGBY!

She takes off her hat and flings it into the crowd like a frisbee. She removes her glasses and jewelry, climbing into the ring … as Simmons attacks her from behind!

Geoff Penzer: Hank Simmons looking to make an impact here tonight. After a few disappointing performances he has a chance against Echo Rigby to really make a name for himself. While Echo herself can add another name to her list of victories if she wins tonight.

The clubbing blows across the back continue as Echo staggers until she’s resting against the ropes. But Simmons keeps raining down blows until he finally opts to drag Echo towards the center of the ring, where he proceeds to body slam her. With authority. The big man hits the ropes for momentum, coming back with a leg drop across the throat before going for the first cover of the match.

ONE!
.
.
Echo kicks out.

Simmons picks his opponent up to her feet and doubles Echo over with a knee lift to the midsection, before an Irish whip sends her towards the corner. Hank follows her in with a running clothesline, and goes for another Irish whip. He charges in after Echo again, but this time hits nothin’ but turnbuckle as Echo dives out of the way! The fans pop as Simmons hits the turnbuckle chest first, staggering backwards and turning around as Echo hits the ropes, performing a bulldog upon her return!

Geoff Penzer: Lightning fast. And just like that Echo has found a way back into this match.

But the bulldog isn’t enough to keep Simmons down for long. Both competitors scramble to get back to their feet as Simmons lunges forward with a lariat, which Echo ducks. She fires off a couple of knife edge chops as her opponent turns around, but they seem to have little to no effect on the big man. Hank swats away the chops and fires off a couple of his own, backing Echo against the ropes. Another Irish whip follows as he sends Rigby across the ring, ducking his head for the back body drop.

Echo has the move scouted, though, hitting a boot to the face that has Simmons dazed! The fans cheer as ‘Big’ Hank Simmons flails his arms, trying his darndest to remain on his feet. But The Peacemaker is already running against the ropes, coming back with a huge busaiku knee strike that takes Simmons off his feet! She hooks a leg!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THR-NO!

Geoff Penzer: So close, another half second and Echo Rigby would have won this already.

Simmons rolls out of the ring to try and recover; the crowd boo him as he’s standing in the aisle way, holding his face in pain. But the boos turn to cheers as Echo flies over the top rope with a somersault plancha, taking out Simmons!

Geoff Penzer: High risk pays off for Echo Rigby there.

Rigby stands up and throws up the peace signs, earning another cheer from the crowd. She goes to pick Hank Simmons back up to his feet and rolls him back into the ring. He staggers back to an upright position as Echo stands on the apron, waiting for the perfect time to leap up and springboard into the ring with an inverted hurricanrana! And the cover!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THR-NOO!

Another kick out by Simmons, and the fans can’t quite believe that one either. Undeterred, Echo gets back to her feet as she lifts Simmons to his knees. Some hard rights connect, followed by some shoot kicks to the chest. But still Hank manages to battle his way back to his feet. Echo hits the ropes for momentum, coming back with a flying forearm. But Hank barely moves. She tries again, and again Hank barely moves. The third time, though, she dives around the back and hits a lungblower!

The crowd pop as Simmons goes down, but Echo appears to have done some damage to herself with that one. Both competitors slowly get back to their feet as Echo strikes first, charging in with an STO that catches Simmons off guard! He hits the mat hard as Echo moves towards the corner. The crowd cheering her on as she begins to climbs to the middle rope…

Geoff Penzer: Hank getting back to his feet, hopefully Echo has seen this or she’s in a dangerous predicament here.

Simmons staggers towards the corner, but Echo has seen him coming. She turns around and fires off some kicks to the face, keeping Hank at a safe distance. A third boot to the face sends Hank back a step as Echo steadies herself for a moment before leaping off with a diving neckbreaker! Simmons goes down, rolling around on the mat until he’s perfectly positioned; Echo moves back towards the corner, bouncing off the middle rope, onto the top rope for the moonsault! And Echo covers.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!!!

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this match, ECHO RIGBY!

Geoff Penzer: Hank Simmons threw away his early advantage, and Echo Rigby just hit him with everything she had until he stayed down there. A big win for the Peacemaker, and more momentum as she carries on her journey here in LDFC.

[FGA Office]

The camera switches to an area backstage where, stood in front of a LDFC banner, is Rab McKinley; already changed into his ring attire, Rab is wearing black trunks and knee pads, and white boots, as well as a grey t-shirt.

Rab McKinley: Tonecht aam gonnae be competin' in whit is undoobtedly th' most important match ay mah career sae far. Admittedly that's nae sayin' much, as tae date I've only bin involved in three matches, but nanetheless, wi' a chance tae tak' a step towards a shot at th' Auld North Championship up fur grabs, thes match is definitely th' most important one 'at I've bin in sae far.

(Tonight I'm going to be competing in what is undoubtedly the most important match of my career so far. Admittedly that's not saying much, as to date I've only been involved in three matches, but nonetheless, with a chance to take a step towards a shot at the Old North Championship up for grabs, this match is definitely the most important one that I've been in so far.)

Rab rubs his chin.

Rab McKinley: Mah opponent in thes match will be Josh Mitchell - someain Ah only hae guid things tae say abit. Ay coorse, thes isnae th' first time in mah short career 'at I've foond myself havin' tae compete against someain 'at Ah gie oan with: when Ah made mah debut at th' start ay lest month, Ah was in th' rin' wi' Maritza Diaz; Ah managed tae defeat Maritza, an' sae hopefully I'll be able tae defeat Josh, tay.

(My opponent in this match will be Josh Mitchell - someone I only have good things to say about. Of course, this isn't the first time in my short career that I've found myself having to compete against someone that I get on with: when I made my debut at the start of last month, I was in the ring with Maritza Diaz; I managed to defeat Maritza, and so hopefully I'll be able to defeat Josh, too.)

Rab scratches his head.

Rab McKinley: I've heard whit Josh hud tae say abit me an' uir match, an' Ah cannae really argue wi' onie ay th' things 'at he said. Weel, except fur 'at comment abit me bein' as mad as a box ay frogs - althoogh mah coosin Natalie woods probably agree wi' heem oan 'at one.

(I've heard what Josh had to say about me and our match, and I can't really argue with any of the things that he said. Well, except for that comment about me being as mad as a box of frogs - although my cousin Natalie would probably agree with him on that one.)

Rab smiles good-humouredly.

Rab McKinley: Serioosly thocht, Josh is right: Ah am th' newbie in thes match - there's nae denyin' 'at aam th' less experienced ay th' two ay us. Ah also know 'at Josh will be th' favoorite tae win thes one - an' efter some ay th' wins he has earned, rightly sae. 'At doesnae bortha me thocht.

(Seriously though, Josh is right: I am the newbie in this match - there's no denying that I'm the less experienced of the two of us. I also know that Josh will be the favourite to win this one - and after some of the wins he has earned, rightly so. That doesn't bother me though.)

Rab shakes his head.

Rab McKinley: Us Scots ur used tae nae bein' th' favoorites - th' only time we're ever th' favoorites fur anythin' is when we play curlin'.

(Us Scots are used to not being the favourites - the only time we're ever the favourites for anything is when we play curling.)

Rab smirks.

Rab McKinley: Sae Ah dornt hae onie issues wi' Josh bein' confident abit beatin' me. An' he's reit 'at he needs thes win mair than Ah do; Ah ne'er expected tae fin' myself in thes position - in a match thes important - efter only three matches. But noo 'at Ah am in thes position, aam gonnae dae whit Ah can tae try tae gie th' better ay Josh; aam nae happy simply tae be haur - Ah want tae be successful.

(So I don't have any issues with Josh being confident about beating me. And he's right that he needs this win more than I do; I never expected to find myself in this position - in a match this important - after only three matches. But now that I am in this position, I'm going to do what I can to try to get the better of Josh; I'm not happy simply to be here - I want to be successful.)

Rab nods.

Rab McKinley: An' as Josh said, may th' better man win. If ye dae win thocht, Josh, th' drinks ur oan ye - okay?

(And as Josh said, may the better man win. If you do win though, Josh, the drinks are on you - okay?)

Rab winks.

Rab McKinley: I'll see ye it thaur.

(I'll see you out there.)

The camera then cuts away.

[FGA Office]

The house lights dim slightly as the gentle sound of a piano playing gives way and the beat drops. Bursting from behind the curtain, El Grandé Malo stomps his way out onto the stage bouncing in time with the music. He hops and jogs down to the ring, slapping the outstretched hands along the way, before sliding into the ring and heading for the nearest corner.

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Mexico, Maine! Weighing in at 205 pounds… EL GRANDE MALO!!!

He scales the turnbuckles and continues to hype up the crowd before dropping down and stretching while waiting for the match to begin.

Geoff Penzer: Malo hasn’t had the greatest of luck as of late. But tonight he steps into the ring with a man that he knows very well. Their previous battles have spilled outside the ring and around the building. Tonight, Malo looks to pick up yet another win over Mylo Danvers.

The arena fades to black as silence begins to settle in until “One Who Last Laughs” by Downplay hits the PA System. A few minutes go by as the lights begin to flash black,white and blue and from behind the curtains outsteps Mylo Danvers on the stage holding onto the inner sides of his cut. He looks around to the crowd taking into their presence for a moment. Once comfortable he makes his way down to the ramp.

Melanie Sierra: Ad his opponent, from Lexington, Kentucky! Weighing in at 183 pounds! He is “THE LONG WOLF” MYLO DANVERS!!!

Upon arrival to the ring apron he hops up onto it on a knee while pulling himself up. Once up to his feet he takes one last look to the ramp and enters the ring. Without making eye contact with anyone he looks around to the people alongside the barricade while rubbing his nose and making his way across the ring to a corner. He leans up against the corner turnbuckle and waits for the match to begin.

Geoff Penzer: The Lone Wolf was unsuccessful in his Old North Championship match against Jensen Banks. Some of the chatter going around is that Mylo has been a letdown after such a hot start. But Mylo could get himself back to his winning ways with a win here tonight over a familiar foe. Malo-Danvers III starts … now!

The match starts with both men locking up. After jockeying for position, Mylo throws EGM down with an arm drag. After EGM gets back to his feet, he circles the ring and inches back over towards Mylo before locking up. After jockeying for position, Mylo throws EGM down with another arm drag. EGM gets back to his feet. After sizing up Mylo, EGM heads back over and locks up. After jockeying for position, EGM places Mylo is a side headlock. But Mylo is quick to shove EGM off of him and into the ropes. When EGM returns, Mylo knocks him down with a sanding shoulder block. He then takes off into the ropes. When Mylo comes back, EGM kips up before leapfrogging over him. Mylo continues to run into the far ropes. When Mylo returns, EGM throws him down with a hip toss. Mylo gets up, but EGM takes him down with an arm drag. Mylo gets back up, but EGM throws him down with an overflow dram drag. As Mylo rolls to the outside, EGM takes off into the far ropes. When EGM returns, Mylo slides back in and cuts him off with a clothesline. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
EGM kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Malo was looking for his patented dive to the outside. But Mylo had other plans...

Mylo picks up EGM, moves him into the corner and unleashes a series of knife edge chops. EGM then quickly grabs Mylo, tosses him into the corner and delivers a series of knife edge chops of his own. He then takes Mylo and whips him into the opposite corner. EGM then runs across the ring and connects with a corner yakuza kick. After bringing Mylo from out of the corner, EGM grabs him, turns and goes for an Exploder Suplex into the turnbuckles. But Mylo blocks the move with elbows to the side of the head. After a knee to the midsection, he takes EGM and tosses him through the ropes and onto the apron. He then goes to grab EGM. But EGM ducks and counters with a shoulder thrust through the ropes. While Mylo is doubled over, EGM follows up with a sunset flip.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Mylo kicks out.

EGM picks up Mylo and whips him into the ropes. When Mylo returns, EGM throws him down with a back body drop. As Mylo is getting up, EGM sends him flipping down to the canvas with a leaping enzuigiri. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Mylo gets his shoulder up.

EGM picks up Mylo and goes for an irish whip. But Mylo reverses, sending EGM into the corner. Mylo charges into the corner. But EGM counters with a back elbow to the face, followed by a reverse STO into the turnbuckle. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Mylo gets his foot on the bottom rope.

Geoff Penzer: Another close call there by Mylo. Some good ring awareness shown by the Lone Wolf, though.

EGM picks up Mylo and goes for a vertical suplex. But Mylo’s able to slip down from behind. He then grabs EGM and tosses him through the ropes and to the floor. As EGM is getting up on the outside, Mylo takes off into the far ropes. When he returns, EGM slides back in and knocks him down with a leaping calf kick. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Mylo gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Now it’s Malo that cuts off the the dive to the floor. But it only gets two.

EGM picks up Mylo and goes for an irish whip. But Mylo reverses, sending him into the ropes. When EGM returns, Mylo sets up for a back body drop. EGM sees it coming and counters with a jumping faceplant. He turns Mylo over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Mylo gets his shoulder up.

EGM picks up Mylo and goes for a vertical suplex. But Mylo blocks it. So EGM tightens his grip before going for another suplex. But again, Mylo blocks it. So EGM delivers three punches to the ribs. He then goes for a double pump vertical suplex lift flipped into a powerbomb. But after Mylo lands on EGM’s shoulders, he spins around before spiking him with an inverted frankensteiner. Cheers and applause can be heard throughout the crowd as both men are down.

Geoff Penzer: Excellent counter there by Mylo Danvers! This is the opening that he needs to retake control on this contest!

After both men return to their feet, EGM throws out a clothesline. But Mylo ducks and runs into the ropes. When EGM turns around, Mylo knocks him down with a clothesline before running into the ropes. When EGM gets up and turns around, Mylo knocks him down with another clothesline before running into the far ropes. Once EGM gets up and turns around, Mylo throws him down with an STO. Mylo then steps out onto the apron before climbing up to the top turnbuckle. Once EGM gets up and turns around, Mylo leaps off and delivers a diving neckbreaker. He turns over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
EGM gets his shoulder up.

Mylo picks up EGM and whips him into the ropes. When EGM returns, Mylo doubles him over with a knee to the midsection. From there, Mylo drapes his leg across the back of EGM’s neck and follows up with an Overdrive. Mylo then brings EGM back up to his feet and hooks his arms before delivering a double underhook sitout facebuster. He turns EGM over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

“One Who Last Laughs” plays over the PA.

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this match, MYLO DANVERS!!!

Mylo gets his arm raised in victory while cheers can be heard from the crowd.

Geoff Penzer: Mylo Danvers bounces back from a tough loss and gets the win over El Grandé Malo! While he may not be in immediate contention for the Old North Championship, but Mylo is back on the right path!

[FGA Office]

The camera’s catch Echo Rigby walking around backstage with her guitar slung over her shoulder, picking out a tune and singing to herself.

Echo Rigby: Well I realize that I've been hypnotized, I love your gypsy eyes! I love your gypsy eyes! Alright! Hey! Gypsy!

She rolls through a little riff with a smirk as her fingers fly on the neck.

Echo Rigby: Yeah man, nothing like a lil’ Jimi Hendrix to get that fresh soul blood pumping into my heart of gold, dude.

She slings the guitar off her shoulder and walks around the corner, holding it out a bit as she leans over to get a drink from the water fountain. As she does so, Malcolm Pope comes around the corner holding a doughnut and dabbing at his chin with a napkin, fresh from catering. As Echo holds the guitar away to avoid any water drips, Malcolm’s elbow makes contact with the guitar, bumping into it and he drops his doughnut on the floor. He steps back and glares at Echo as she stands up, looking at him wide-eyed wiping her mouth.

Malcolm Pope: The nerve of some people! Why don’t you watch what you’re doing with that… that thing you call a musical instrument? You just ruined a perfectly good doughnut, ma’am! Who let this homeless ragamuffin roam these halls anyway?

Pope shakes his head in sheer disgust as he looks at the doughnut and the crumbs on his suit.

Echo Rigby: Man, I work here. Hey dude I’m real sorry… Guess I’ll pay more attention where I’m standing next time.

She takes the napkin from his hand and wipes off his jacket and chin, before sticking it in his jacket pocket with a smile.

Echo Rigby: Hope y’all can find another snack somewhere.

She pats his shoulder and walks off down the hall, as Pope glares at her and then looks at his phone as the scene fades.

[FGA Office]

"Titanium" hits the speakers, accompanied by a round of boos from the fans in attendance, and The Systemic make their way out. Skylar III darts down the aisle, zigging and zagging back and forth, spreading the word to Reach for the Skylar to the fans in attendance. The powerhouse known as Skylar II makes a straight line down to the ring, with a stoic expression on his face.

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, hailing from Los Angeles, California! Weighing in at 138 pounds … SKYLAR III!

Skylar III slides under the ropes, while Skylar II steps up onto the apron, and over the ropes in one long stride. She heads to the corner, climbing up the turnbuckle, and holding her arms out while he takes the center of the ring, looking up and pointing to the sky. After she hops off turnbuckles, she kneels in front of Skylar II, pointing to the sky as well.

The rhythmic banjo of Steve 'n' Seagull's cover of "Thunderstruck" begin to tune up as the overall clad Thunderbelly appeared from behind the curtain, crook in hand as he stomped his foot in rhythm to his own theme. Soon the jovial fans joined in, now clapping their hands in rhythm as well, Thunderbelly even beginning to tap his crook on the ground as well as the music gradually builds, slapping spoons, banging base pans, and even an accordion joining the banjos, finally culminating as the singer lets out:

"You've been.... Thunderstruck!"

Thunderbelly immediately throws a fist into the air, holding his hooked staff above his head as he begins to make his way toward the ring.

Melanie Sierra: And her opponent, from The Fluffy Farm by way of Valais, Switzerland! Weighing in at 200 pounds … THUNDERBELLY!

Making sure to slap hands with any fans that reach out to him, Thunderbelly finally approaches the ring, hopping up onto the apron and quickly ascends the outside of the nearest turnbuckle, standing with one foot triumphantly perched on the top turnbuckle as he holds his mighty crook high once again to the crowd's approval, the froggy shepherd leaping down from the turnbuckle into the ring.

Geoff Penzer: The Systemic have been on the rise here in LDFC, tonight Skylar III is in singles competition against Thunderbelly. He’s not had the best luck here, but a win over Skylar III could be a huge boost for The Sheep Herder.

The bell sounds to start the match as both competitors circle the ring for a few moments. As they come together with a collar and elbow tie up, Thunderbelly manages to overpower his opponent, pushing III back against the turnbuckle. The referee calls for a break, but Skylar III is quick to duck under the arms and reverse the roles. She fires off a few knife edge chops to The Sheep Herder’s chest, before going for an Irish whip.

Thunderbelly is sent from pillar to post as Skylar charges in after him, only to get caught by a back elbow to the face. She staggers back a couple of steps as Thunderbelly rushes her, swinging with a lariat. Skylar ducks under the arm, however, and counters with yet more knife edge chops. The Sheep Herder is reeling, holding his chest in pain as he’s backed across the ring. Skylar III sets off against the ropes for momentum, coming back with a front dropkick that knocks Thunderbelly out through the ropes and onto the apron.

Geoff Penzer: Skylar III starting off strong here; she has Thunderbelly on the back foot and in a precarious predicament, what can she do from here?

Skylar III takes a run up and performs a triangle dropkick that knocks Thunderbelly off the apron; he lands chest first across the guard rail, before falling to the floor, clutching at his chest. Skylar steps out onto the apron as her opponent begins to pick himself up on the outside; the fans are warning Thunderbelly to be careful, but as he turns around he’s caught by the somersault senton! III pops up and poses for the fans, only to get booed heavily. Undeterred, she picks Thunderbelly up and whips him into the steel steps before rolling him back into the ring. But he begins to crawl away as Skylar climbs up onto the apron, so she ascends all the way to the top rope as she waits for The Sheep Herder to turn his attention towards her. Skylar leaps off with a crossbody block into the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Thunderbelly kicks out!

Skylar looks towards the official and shakes her head in dismay as she gets back to her feet. A few stomps keep Thunderbelly grounded momentarily, but he starts to stand back up as Skylar hits the ropes. She comes back with a running European uppercut, staggering the Asgaardian. Another running European uppercut sends Thunderbelly back against the ropes as he rebounds and stumbles towards the center of the ring. Skylar is already on the move, springboarding off the ropes with a moonsault maneuver, into an inverted DDT! And the hook of the leg.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THR-NO!

Geoff Penzer: Another near fall for Skylar III, and I’m not sure how much more Thunderbelly has in the tank here. He’s failed to really get into this one and Skylar is just picking up speed.

On the outside, Skylar II shakes his head as, inside the ring, III begins to argue with the referee. She can’t believe that was only a two count, but the referee is adamant that Thunderbelly kicked out in time.

Geoff Penzer: Skylar III may have to focus on her opponent here, though.

Thunderbelly picks himself up, slowly but surely, spinning III round as he fires off a hard right hand. The crowd cheering as The Sheep Herder lands a few more before going for the Irish whip. A big boot knocks Skylar III down, but she gets back up and staggers towards the ropes. She’s holding onto them to keep herself vertical as Thunderbelly approaches. He grabs III by the hair, bringing her away from the ropes before going for an Irish whip. He swings for the ax bomber, but III ducks under and hits the ropes again, coming back with an abesigiri!

Both competitors scramble to get back to their feet, but it’s Skylar III who gets up first as she sweeps the leg of The Sheep Herder before going for the standing moonsault!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Thunderbelly kicks out!

Skylar III gets back to her feet as she shakes her head at the referee again. Thunderbelly is up in a kneeling position as III charges in, hitting a hurricanrana driver. But she doesn’t go for the pin fall this time. Instead she climbs out onto the apron, waiting for The Sheep Herder to stand back up after being driven face first into the mat. As he finally does so, Skylar springboards into the ring with a sit-out facebuster!

Geoff Penzer: Falling Skies connects! This has to be it now.

She covers.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!!!

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this match, SKYLAR III!

[FGA Office]

Jensen Banks is seen backstage, dressed in his ring gear, the Old North title around his waist. He seems to be stretching, trying to get ready for his match later tonight.

Jensen Banks: Don't really got much to say about my match tonight, guys. Terrence and I have already said what we need to say. Now I just gotta kick him so hard I fix that LeBron-esque hairline.

Banks chuckles.

Jensen Banks: He's going to learn something tonight, just like I'm going to learn who's getting one step closer to challenging for this title. MY TITLE.

The Brooklyn native stops stretching, putting his hands on his hips.

Jensen Banks: Josh Mitchell and Rab McKinley have both been pretty impressive since they've been here. Rab, I obviously don't know that well, but I do know that he managed to defeat Mylo Danvers before I could, so that makes his a convincing threat to this.

He taps the title.

Jensen Banks: On the other hand, I'm a bit more familiar with Josh Mitchell, who will join me in the Rookie X Cup. He and I have even trained along each other for this tournament and even studied tape together. I wouldn't say we're great friends or anything like that, but he's someone I know would give me a clean fight. So if he wins tonight and wins next Pride, I wouldn't mind. And Majima? Well, he already had a shot at my title back when Skylar Cloud held it and he failed to capture it then. If you get another chance, pal? Make sure you don't miss.

Banks then winks at the camera.

Jensen Banks: Now if you'll excuse me, I have a match I need to watch.

Jensen then walks off.

[FGA Office]

As Ain't Dead Yet begins to play through the PA, the lights focused on the entranceway change colour with each power cord, until Josh pushes his way through the black curtain, the lights turning white as he does so, wearing a sleeveless hoodie, hood up, in addition to his ring gear. He pauses a moment in the entranceway, spreading his arms wide, before slowly setting off to the ring. He tries to focus on the ring as he walks, but can't resist a few sly glances to the crowd, a smile playing across his lips as he does do.

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen the following contest is scheduled for one fall, and is an Old North Title Eliminator. Introducing first, from McLeansville, North Carolina! Weighing in at 180 pounds … JOSH MITCHELL!

As he reaches the apron, he rolls into the ring under the bottom rope, before getting to his feet, and jerks his head back, displacing the hood from his head. before smiling and nodding to the crowd. He then makes his way to his corner, removing his hoodie before leaning against the ring post, testing his weight on his prosthetic limb, checking it for fit and comfort.

"Wish it Away" by Psyko Dalek plays over the PA system, and once the song's intro finishes, through the curtains walks Rab McKinley, who is greeted by a cheer. As he makes his way towards the ring, Rab slaps the hands of some of the fans that reach out to him.

Melanie Sierra: And his opponent, from Edinburgh, Scotland! Weighing in 251 pounds … RAB MCKINLEY!

After arriving at ringside, Rab heads for one of the corners, clambers up onto the ring apron, and then climbs to the second rope, to further cheers and applause from the fans. Rab soaks in the reaction from the crowd for several seconds before leaping over the top rope, into the ring, and turning his attention towards his opponent, as he awaits the start of the match.

Geoff Penzer: Both these young men have been experiencing some good fortune as of late, picking up win after win over recent weeks. But tonight only one man can walk away with the win; will it be Josh Mitchell, looking to carry on the momentum he picked up in his win over Butcher? Or will Rab McKinley use his size and strength to put his opponent away? We’ll find out soon enough.

The bell sounds to start the match as both competitors head towards the center of the ring. A quick handshake is exchanged before they circle the ring a couple of times. The fans cheering for both men as they lock up collar and elbow. Unsurprisingly it’s Rab who gains the initial advantage as he pushes Josh back into the corner. The referee intervenes, calling for a break, which he gets at the count of three. Only for Rab to unleash a vicious chop to the chest!

Geoff Penzer: Oh, that one must have hurt. I think Josh’s chest is already turning red.

A couple more chops land, and the crowd “woo” along with each one before Rab goes for an Irish whip, sending Josh from pillar to post. A running clothesline follows, and Mitchell gets crushed in the corner. He staggers out of the corner into a high arcing hip toss, before he finds himself on the receiving end of a soccer kick to the spine! Mitchell drops down to the mat as McKinley covers.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Josh kicks out.

McKinley sits his opponent up and applies a rear chinlock. The fans swaying towards cheering for Josh Mitchell as he tries to battle his way back to a vertical base; the chinlock transitions to a side headlock as Josh manages to stand up, but Rab keeps the hold locked in tight. He even wrenches it as Josh tries to escape, but some well placed side elbows find their mark. Mitchell is soon able to push his opponent away and against the ropes, only for Rab to return with a shoulder block that knocks Mitchell down to the mat.

Rab runs against the ropes again as Josh rolls onto his front, an ideal position to allow McKinley to hop over him. He comes back off the ropes with a clothesline, but Mitchell ducks under the arm and sets off against the ropes himself, coming back with a chop block!

Geoff Penzer: Timber!

McKinley hits the mat and holds his knee in pain as Josh picks himself back up. He stomps at the knee a couple of times to try and keep the Scot grounded, but McKinley fires off some shots to the midsection as he rises back to his feet. They’re enough to have Josh reeling back towards the center of the ring as Rab rebounds off the ropes for momentum, only to get caught by a single leg dropkick! The fans cheer as both competitors scramble back to their vertical bases, and Mitchell leaps up with another single leg dropkick.

Both competitors rush to get back up again as Josh hits an arm drag, keeping it held on for an arm bar. Mitchell struggles to maintain control against his larger, more powerful opponent as Rab battles back to his feet. An arm wringer counters and Josh flips through the air, landing back first against the mat. An elbow drop across the sternum follows, and Rab goes for the pin again.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Josh kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Rab using his size and strength to try and maintain his advantage here, but Josh is finding those chinks in his armor, exposing those weaknesses whenever he can. It might just be a matter of time here.

McKinley picks his opponent up again, this time hooking Mitchell by the waist band as he positions him for a suplex. But Josh hooks the leg. Rab tries again, but Josh kicks his legs and blocks the suplex. A shot to the stomach forces McKinley to release his grip as Josh follows up with a knee lift to the midsection. He hits the ropes for momentum, coming back with a bulldog that drives Rab face first into the mat!

Josh is the first one to his feet, but Rab isn’t far behind. Mitchell props himself up on the ropes as he waits for Rab to stand up; McKinley is grabbed from behind and promptly hit with an inverted headlock backbreaker – which Josh Mitchell transitions into a dragon sleeper!

Geoff Penzer: The dragon sleeper is locked in here!

He says too soon, as Rab is able to find a way out of the hold. He rolls across the mat before standing back up shortly after Josh has already done the same. Rab charges in with a clothesline, but Josh is able to counter that with a sitout side slam! And from there, Josh is able to transition into an arm trap triangle choke! The crowd are on their feet in rapturous applause as Josh cinches the hold in tight; the referee in position to check for a submission, but Rab isn’t shuffling off this mortal coil without a fight.

McKinley sits up, forcing Josh to reposition himself and arc his back to try and keep the hold applied. Which, to his credit, he manages to do until Rab reaches a vertical base. At that point The Scot is able to break the hold and counter with a neckbreaker! Both men are down for a moment as the referee starts the count out.

Geoff Penzer: Rab McKinley able to fight his way out of the submission holds, but they appear to have worn him down significantly. Now it’s just a case of who can get back to their feet first.

The count reaches six before Josh begins to stir, followed close behind by Rab McKinley. By eight both men are on their knees, using the ropes to pull themselves up to their feet as they stagger towards the center of the ring. But Josh surprises his opponent by leaping up for the jumping DDT out of nowhere! Rab is spiked head first into the mat, flopping over onto his back as Josh drapes an arm across the chest.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Rab kicks out!

Josh sits up in shock, looking towards the official to be sure. But the referee holds up two fingers. Undeterred, Mitchell gets back to his feet and makes his way towards the corner; he crouches down, lying in wait for Rab to make his way back to a vertical base. The Scot is moving slowly as he picks himself up near the center of the ring, just as Josh closes in for the Crimson Elbow – NO! Rab ducks under the discus elbow and scoops up Mitchell from behind, planting him with an inverted powerslam!

Geoff Penzer: What a huge move by Rab McKinley! He might have Josh here if only he can capitalize on this advantage.

McKinley moves back to his feet, trying his hardest to gather his bearings after that wicked DDT. Mitchell rolls towards the ropes, using them to drag himself back to a vertical base as Rab steps closer. He gets caught by a boot to the midsection. And another. Mitchell balancing on his prosthesis as he lashes out with the kicks, before standing upright. He fires off a couple of forearm shots, rocking The Scot where he stands. But McKinley fires back. Hard! The rights and lefts catching Josh Mitchell as he tries his hardest to cover up. A knee lift by Josh catches Rab by surprise, though, as Mitchell sets off against the ropes. He comes back with a swinging neckbreaker – NO!

Rab spins out of the neckbreaker, sending Josh on his way and against the ropes again. Mitchell rebounds off them and into the waiting arms of Rab McKinley as he hoists Josh up above his head with a press slam!

Geoff Penzer: What strength from Rab McKinley there – wait a minute!

Josh slides down onto his opponent’s shoulders and counters with a crucifix pin!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!!!

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this match, JOSH MITCHELL!

Geoff Penzer: What a counter by Josh Mitchell, and it’s enough to steal the three count out from underneath Rab McKinley there.

The referee helps Josh back to a vertical base, raising his arm as the crowd continue to cheer. Behind him, Rab looks disappointed in himself as he stands back up. Josh turns around, coming face to face with the Scot … who extends a hand out. Mitchell gratefully accepts the handshake before raising Rab’s arm in the air also.

[FGA Office]

We find Malcolm Pope again, this time he’s on his phone in deep conversation in the men’s room washing his hands.

Malcolm Pope: That’s right, I think these would be some good business opportunities for my boy, Miles Bishop, mhmm…

He dries himself off and flings open the restroom door, and a loud noise and exclamation is heard on the other side. The sudden outburst causes him to drop his phone. As the door closes he looks down to see Echo Rigby sitting on the floor rubbing her elbow, her guitar on the floor beside her.

Malcolm Pope: Again with you? You like a damn bad penny that keeps popping up, young miss! Why you posted up by the men’s room door, huh?

Echo grimaced and stood up grabbing her guitar, as Pope picked up his phone.

Echo Rigby: Dude I was just walking by minding my own business when you came busting out of there, man.

Malcolm held out his phone.

Malcolm Pope: Oh? Well my phone has a crack in it now thanks to you!

Echo looked at her guitar, frowning.

Echo Rigby: My guitar’s got one too now. Man… Again, I’m sorry. I need to watch out for doors.

Malcolm Pope: This is two times… TWO TIMES you have disrespected me tonight, ma’am!

Miles Bishop has overheard his manager’s raised voice and steps into view.

Miles Bishop: What is the problem here, huh?

Malcolm pointed at Echo, who cradled her guitar like a baby.

Malcolm Pope: One word: HER! This little hippie thinks she can just walk around wherever she wants, doing whatever she wants. Excuse me, do you own this building? Are you some Lion’s Den hotshot?

Echo Rigby: Hey man, I just…

Malcolm Pope: You just nothing, hush up now. You see, there’s only one person of importance around here who can and should be strutting around here like he owns the place, my client: Miles Bishop. And if you’re not with that program he can surely set you straight right quick!

Miles smiles widely folding his arms and nodding.

Miles Bishop: He’s right, you know? Now listen here, sweetness… do we got a problem? I’d hate to have to solve it right here and now, but I will if I have to.

Echo furrowed her brow a bit and stepped forward, her lip trembled slightly.

Echo Rigby: I don’t want any trouble, but I’m not going to back down if that’s what you’re hoping for, dude…

Miles and Echo stood looking at each other in an intense staredown as Malcolm looked on. Just then Malcolm put an arm around Miles.

Malcolm Pope: She’s not worth it, my brother. We got more important things to handle, let’s go.

Miles looked over and nodded and they turned and walked away. Echo looked down and ran her finger over the fresh crack in her guitar, looking back up at them she heaved a deep breath as the scene faded.

[FGA Office]

“First Blood” plays as Pedro Gonzales swaggers his way down to the ring. He begins to high fives fans on both sides of the aisle.

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Mexico City, Mexico! Weighing in at 115 pounds! He is “MEXICO CITY’S FAVORITE SUN” ... PEDRO GONZALES!!!

Geoff Penzer: If you watched Pedro Gonzales’ video in the buildup to this match, you saw Pedro with more of an edge to him. That shift in attitude could push him past a man like MacRear, who is always a tough out whenever he’s in the ring.

"I'M BRINGING SEXY BAAAACK."

As soon as the beat of “Sexy Back” by Justin Timberlake hits, smoke smoothly pours up from the entrance ramp, masking the actual entrance impossible to see. Prince MacRear emerges from the smoke mid-sequence, a smug grin on his demeanor and jerking his hips. With a look on his face that can only mean he’s clearly enthused with himself, he does a twirl before continuing down to the ring. MacRear takes turns shouting at the sky, yelling at fans, and twerking his backside at every chance he gets while taking selfies with his iPhone.

Melanie Sierra: His opponent, from Hollywood, California! Weighing in at 191 pounds! He is “THE SULTAN OF SELFIES” … PRINCE MACREAR!!!

As he reaches the ring, MacRear sprawls across the apron and poses, almost model like, soaking the attention from the crowd. MacRear waves the fans off and rolls toward the middle of the ring. He takes one more selfie, sets his phone down on the canvas, and in a swift, exaggerated manner, takes off his robe.

Geoff Penzer: MacRear has been all smiles after finally getting over the hump. At “Bound by Honor” he was able to defeat Aria Banks of RISE Wrestling to win the Carolina Cup! However, it wasn't without controversy as he clearly had a handful of tights when he made the cover. Regardless, MacRear name went onto the side of the Cup along with The Crimson Baroness, Emily Carter and Adam Adonis. Will his name now be added to the championship lineage of this company? That remains to be seen.

The match starts with both men circling the ring before motioning for a lock up. But MacRear opts out at the last minute in favor of a kick to the midsection. The crowd continues to boo as MacRear knocks Pedro into the corner after a series of punches to the face. From there, MacRear switches back to kicks to the midsection before raking Pedro across the eyes. He then takes Pedro and whips him into the opposite corner. MacRear then runs across the ring and goes to connect with a clothesline. But Pedro moves out of the way, causing MacRear to crash into the turnbuckle. As MacRear stumbles out of the corner, Pedro quickly rolls him up with a school boy.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
MacRear kicks out.

MacRear quickly rolls to the outside to take a breather.

Geoff Penzer: MacRear is looking to slam the brakes on this match after nearly getting rolled up for a three count!

After circling the ring and dealing with some heckling fan in the front row, MacRear slowly climbs back up onto the apron and steps into the ring. He slowly makes his way over to Pedro and motions for a lock up. Again, MacRear opts out at the last second and goes for a kick to the midsection. But this time, Pedro catches his foot. So MacRear goes to follow up with an enzuigiri. But Pedro ducks. He then dives over onto MacRear’s shoulders before rolling him into a Gedo Clutch.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
MacRear kicks out.

After both men scramble back to their feet, Pedro rolls MacRear up with a small package.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
MacRear kicks out.

After both men scramble back to their feet, MacRear quickly takes Pedro by the arm and wrenches it. He then repeatedly tries to yank the arm from out of its socket before wrenching the arm again. The ref checks in with Pedro and asks him if he wants to give up. Once Pedro refuses to quit, MacRear slaps him across the back of the head before wrenching the arm. The crowd continues to boo as he smacks Pedro across the back of the head before wrenching the arm once more. Pedro then responds by running towards the ropes before delivering a springboard arm drag. MacRear gets back up, the crowd cheers as Pedro throws him down with another arm drag. As soon as MacRear returns to his feet, Pedro returns him to the mat with another arm drag. He then quickly transitions into an armbar, which causes MacRear to kick his legs out of frustration.

Geoff Penzer: Once again, MacRear has been bested by Pedro and he is none too pleased.

The ref checks in with MacRear and asks him if he wants to give up. MacRear deflects and complains that Pedro is pulling his hair. The ref checks in with Pedro and asks if he pulled MacRear’s hair. Pedro vehemently denies it. After MacRear battles his way back to his feet, he reaches up with his free hand, grabs Pedro by the hair and pulls him into the ropes. From there, the ref gives both men until the count of five to break it up.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Both men slowly let go of each other and appear to make a clean break… until MacRear lunges forward and doubles Pedro over with a shoulder thrust. The crowd boos as MacRear follows up with clubbing shots to the back of the neck. He then takes Pedro and tosses him through the ropes. MacRear turns and holds his arms in the air. But unbeknownst to him, Pedro landed safely on the apron. When MacRear turns back around, the crowd cheers as Pedro brings him down with a springboard frankensteiner.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
MacRear kicks out.

After both men scramble back to their feet, Pedro locks on a side headlock. He then transitions into a spinning drop toe hold. After maneuvering across MacRear’s back, Pedro applies a grounded side headlock. The ref gets down and asks MacRear if he wants to give up. But MacRear refuses. After battling back to his feet, MacRear takes Pedro and goes for a belly to back suplex. But Pedro rolls over his shoulder, lands on his feet and reapplies the side headlock. However, MacRear is able to shove Pedro off of him and into the ropes. When Pedro returns, the crowd boos as MacRear throws him down with the Facial. He turns Pedro over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Pedro kicks out.

MacRear takes Pedro, places him in a side headlock and rakes his face along the top rope. Once MacRear lets go, Pedro stumbles into a nearby corner. After approaching Pedro from behind, MacRear delivers a double ax handle smash across the back. He then turns Pedro around and unleashes a series of knife edge chops that echo throughout the building. He then takes Pedro and whips him into the opposite corner. MacRear charges into the corner, but Pedro counters with a back elbow to the face. After stumbling back, MacRear runs back into the corner. This time, Pedro hoists himself up into a seated position on the top turnbuckle before kicking MacRear in the face. While MacRear is dazed, Pedro brings him down with a flying hurricanrana. Once MacRear gets back to his feet, Pedro runs over and connects with a dropkick that sends him through the ropes and to the floor. While MacRear tries to pull himself up on the floor, Pedro takes off into the far ropes. When he returns, he leaps over the top rope before knocking MacRear down with a no hands topé to cheers and applause.

Pedro rolls back into the crouches down, waiting patiently for MacRear to return to his feet. As MacRear slowly pulls himself up using the edge of the apron, Pedro takes off into the far ropes. When Pedro comes back, he goes for a baseball slide. But MacRear catches his feet before violently yanking Pedro out onto the floor. After Pedro smacks hard on the floor, he slowly sits back up. From there, Macrear delivers hard kicks to the spine. He then reaches down, picks Pedro up and delivers a russian legsweep against the side of the ring. After doubling Pedro over with a knee to the midsection, MacRear brings him down with a swinging neckbreaker. The crowd continues to boo as MacRear rolls himself back into the ring to recover while the ref starts his count.

ONE!




TWO!




THREE!




FOUR!




FIVE




As Pedro is pulling himself up onto the apron, MacRear goes over and doubles him over with a shoulder thrust through the ropes. He then takes Pedro and goes for a suplex back into the ring. But Pedro slips down from behind and follows up with an O’Connor Roll.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
MacRear kicks out.

After both men get back to their feet, MacRear knocks him down with a dropkick. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Pedro gets his foot on the bottom rope.

MacRear picks up Pedro and whips him into the ropes. When Pedro returns, MacRear throws him down with a back body drop. Upon impact, Pedro arches his back in pain. After Pedro slowly turns over and gets up on his feet, MacRear runs over and spikes him with Uglified. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Pedro gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: The hurricarna driver only gets two. But you can bet that Pedro is still feeling the effects of that move.

MacRear sits up Pedro and clamps on a rear chinlock. The ref asks Pedro is he wants to give up. But Pedro refuses. So MacRear increases the pressure of the hold.

Crowd: PEDRO! PEDRO! PEDRO! PEDRO! PEDRO!

Pedro begins to feed off the energy of the crowd. He slowly turns over onto his knees before getting back to his feet. From there, he elbows MacRear in the midsection until the hold is broken. Once he’s free, Pedro takes off into the ropes. When Pedro returns, MacRear swings around him and locks on sleeper. The crowd boos as MacRear can be seen trying to squeeze as hard as he can. Pedro then reaches up, grabs MacRear with both hands and counters with a sitout jawbreaker. The crowd cheers as MacRear stumbles back into a nearby corner.

Geoff Penzer: MacRear got rocked by that desperation jawbreaker from Pedro! Let’s see if Pedro can follow up...

While MacRear tries to shake out the cobwebs, Pedro runs unto the corner and connects with a clothesline. He then climbs up onto the middle ropes and punches MacRear while the crowd counts along.

Crowd: UNO! DOS! TRES! CUATRO! CINCO! SEIS! SIETE! OCHO! NUEVE! DI-

MacRear grabs Pedro, heads out of the corner and follows up with an inverted atomic drop. While Pedro stands with his legs buckled, MacRear takes off into the ropes. When he returns, the crowd boos when he he knocks Pedro with a running thump. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Pedro gets his shoulder up.

MacRear picks up Pedro and goes for a brainbuster. But Pedro knows it’s coming, so he immediately drops down to a knee. After MacRear lets go and knocks him down with a knee lift, MacRear pulls him back up and goes for another brainbuster. But again, Pedro drops to a knee. This time, MacRear lets go before raking Pedro across the eyes. After pulling Pedro back up to his feet, MacRear lifts him up before planting him with a brainbuster. He turns over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THR-NO!

The crowd gasps, then cheers as Pedro gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Pedro with juuuuust another left in him to get that shoulder up!

MacRear picks up Pedro and whips him into the corner. He then runs into the corner. But Pedro cuts him off with an STO. While MacRear’s down, Pedro steps out onto the apron before climbing to the top turnbuckle. He then leaps off and connects with a diving double foot stomp. The crowd cheers as he makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
MacRear gets his shoulder up.

Pedro picks up MacRear and goes for an irish whip. But MacRear reverses, sending Pedro into the ropes. When Pedro returns, MacRear sets up for another back body drop. But Pedro counters with a sunset flip.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
MacRear kicks out.

After both men return to their feet, MacRear goes for a kick to the midsection. But Pedro catches his foot before spinning him around. When MacRear comes back, Pedro stuns him with a thrust kick. After a kick to the midsection doubled him over, Pedro follows up with a Devil Lock DDT. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
T-NO!

MacRear gets his shoulder up.

Pedro picks up MacRear and whips him into the ropes. When MacRear comes back, Pedro knocks him down with a flying cross chop. After MacRear returns to his feet, Pedro returns him to the mat with another flying cross chop. After MacRear gets back up, Pedro runs over and delivers a tilt-a-whirl headscissors that sends MacRear through the ropes and to the floor. As MacRear slowly pulls himself up with the edge of the apron, Pedro holds his back before running into the far ropes. When he returns, he leaps over the top rope and knocks MacRear down with a double rotation tornillo to cheers and applause.

Geoff Penzer: Pedro Gonzales connects with that twisting aerial maneuver on Prince MacRear!

Pedro holds his back before picking MacRear up and rolling him back into the ring. After climbing back up onto the apron, Pedro delivers a senton atomicó. Pedro gets back up and holds his back again. He then turns and around and waits for MacRear to get into position. After MacRear pulls himself up using the ropes, Pedro runs over and goes for a jumping reverse bulldog. But MacRear hangs onto the ropes, causing Pedro to smack the back of his head hard against the canvas.

MacRear picks up Pedro, runs into the corner and slams him face-first onto the top turnbuckle. After turning Pedro around, MacRear pummels Pedro down in the corner with a flurry of right hands. MacRear then steps back towards the center of the ring. After lining Pedro up, MacRear runs across the ring before hurling himself into the corner for BOOTY BOOTY BOOTY ROCKIN EVERYWHERE. But the crowd cheers as Pedro moves out of the way, causing MacRear to crash into the corner. As MacRear stumbles out, Pedro pulls himself up using the ropes. When MacRear turns around, Pedro goes for another thrust kick. But this time, MacRear catches his foot. He then spins Pedro around. When Pedro returns, MacRear lifts him up onto his shoulders before delivering Damaged Goods. The crowd boos as he makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THRE-NO!

The crowd gasps, then cheers as Pedro gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Pedro’s still in this! I don’t know how he kicked out, but he’s still in this!

MacRear looks up at the ref in disbelief. He holds up three fingers at the ref. But the ref shakes his head before holding up two at him. MacRear tugs his hair out of frustration. He then turns and sees Pedro slowly turning over onto his stomach.

Geoff Penzer: Uh oh...

MacRear gets up to his feet and backs up. While Pedro is in the process of getting up, MacRear runs over and goes for The Face Mask. But Pedro moves out of the way and counters with a jumping reverse bulldog. The crowd cheers as he turns over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
TH-NO!

The crowd sighs, then boos as MacRear gets his shoulder up.

Pedro picks up MacRear and whips him into the ropes. When MacRear returns, Pedro goes for a Bicycle Knee Strike. But MacRear swats down the knee, doubles Pedro over with a knee to the midsection and follows up with a Snap DDT. He then turns over and gets on all fours. MacRear is seeing waiting impatiently for Pedro to get up. Once Pedro pushes himself up on all fours, MacRear leaps to his feet, runs over, jumps up and stomps him down with The Face Mask. The crowd boos as he turns Pedro over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THRE-NO!

The crowd gasps, then cheers as Pedro gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: He did it again! Pedro is still in this! Unbelievable heart being shown by this athlete here tonight!

MacRear holds up three fingers to the crowd before holding them up to the ref. But again, the ref shakes his head before holding up two fingers. MacRear begins slapping the canvas out of frustration.

Geoff Penzer: He can’t believe it, either!

MacRear picks up Pedro and lifts him up for a brainbuster. But Pedro slips down from behind. When MacRear turns around, Pedro stuns him with a Bicycle Knee Strike. He then lifts MacRear up across his shoulders before delivering a fireman’s carry dropped into a roundhouse kick. Cheers are heard throughout the crowd while MacRear is sprawled out on the canvas.

While MacRear is down, Pedro slowly gets back to his feet. He then steps out onto the apron before slowly scaling up towards the top turnbuckle. Once he finally makes it to the top turnbuckle, MacRear dives over from out of nowhere and pushes Pedro’s legs out from under him.

Geoff Penzer: Oh no!

While Pedro is crotched on the top turnbuckle, MacRear slowly pulls himself back up using the ropes. After climbing up to the top rope, MacRear pulls up Pedro from the top turnbuckle, grabs a hold of him and delivers an avalanche moonsault side slam. The crowd boos as he makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

“SexyBack” blares throughout the venue to boos from the crowd.

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this match, PRINCE MACREAR!!!

MacRear gets his arm raised as the crowd erupts with boos.

Geoff Penzer: Man, what a mach! Prince MacRear picks up the win! But it was a much closer contest than he ever could have imagined. Pedro kicked out of The Face Mask! He kicked out of Damaged Goods! But he wasn't able to survive that moonsault side slam off the top! Great, great effort there by Pedro Gonzales tonight. But it was the Carolina Cup holder that walks away the winner.

[FGA Office]

The show cuts backstage to where Jessie Pederson is standing alongside one half of the LDFC Apex Tag Team Champions, The Crimson Baroness. With her title belt around her waist, The Baroness stands stoically, her chest out with pride as Jessie begins.

Jessie Pederson: Ladies and gentlemen, here with me at this time is The Crimson Baroness. Ka–Baroness…

The slip of the name draws a side-eye stare from The Baroness.

Jessie Pederson: Two weeks ago you and Keegan Hightower managed to become the LDFC Apex Tag Team Champions. Some have criticized the mean–

The Crimson Baroness: Haven’t we been over this before, Jessie?

Jessie Pederson: You won, and we should get over it…

The Crimson Baroness: Exactly.

Jessie Pederson: Except you claimed you could win without resorting to those sort of tactics. That you didn’t need Anita to interfere. But sti–

A finger over the lips shuts Jessie up as The Baroness grabs the microphone from her hand.

The Crimson Baroness: That’s not getting over it now, is it, Jessie? Two weeks ago Keegan and I took those belts from Brute Camp just like we said we would. That’s what matters. Tonight I’m not in action, but I couldn’t rob these fans the chance to see me. To build up their anticipation for two weeks time on the thirtieth episode of Pride, where I get the chance to take on the FGA World Champion, Johnny Cannon, and get to show everybody what I’m tr–

Jessie coughs to interrupt The Crimson Baroness. The tag champion stops talking, glaring at the interviewer before Jessie leans over to talk into the microphone.

Jessie Pederson: Ahem, you’re not facing Johnny Cannon on the next show…

The Crimson Baroness: Excuse me?

Jessie Pederson: That match never got made. Instead, I understand that you will be in single action–

Jessie is interrupted as The Crimson Baroness storms off screen, marching in the direction of the offices.

Jessie Pederson: –against Becky. Back to you at ringside.

[FGA Office]

Two weeks ago at "Bound by Honor"...

Both wrestlers slowly get back to their feet.

Nest throws out a right hand. Emily comes back with a right hand of her own.

Nest throws out another right hand that sends Emily stumbling back.

Emily comes back over and connects with another right hand.

Nest throws out a right hook. But Emily ducks and counters with a right and left forearm strike. She then delivers a shoot kick to the left leg, follows up with a Spinning Backfist, and caps off the combo with a Pelé Kick. While Nest is dazed, Emily gets up and takes off into the ropes. When she turns, the crowd cheers as she sends Nest spinning down to the canvas with a Busaiku Knee Strike.

Geoff Penzer: There it is! This could be it!

Emily makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THRE-NO!

The crowd sighs, then boos as Nest gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Soooo close!

Emily picks up Nest and goes for an irish whip. But Nest reverses, sending her into the ropes. When Emily comes back, she slides through Nest’s legs. When Nest turns around, Emily gets up and delivers another shoot kick to the left leg. Nest’s knee buckles before he collapses to one knee. From there, Emily nails Nest with a roundhouse kick to the head. She then nails Nest with another roundhouse kick…

And another…

And another…

And another…

And another…

And another…

While Nest is dazed, Emily runs into the ropes. When she returns, the crowd cheers as she knocks Nest down with a Busaiku Knee Strike. Emily steps steps out onto the apron and tries to climb up to the top turnbuckle.

Geoff Penzer: Emily’s headed to the top! She’s looking to put this away! We could be seconds away from having a new APEX Champion!

Once Emily reaches the top, the crowd cheers as she leaps off, shifts her body in mid air and crashes down on Nest with a Five Star Frog Splash.

Geoff Penzer: There it is! There it is!


ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
*DIGN!-DING!!-DING!!!*

Geoff Penzer: Did she get it? Did she win!?

Emily slowly rolls off of Nest.

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this match…





















...and now, the NEEEEEEEEEWWWWWWWWWWW… APEX Champion…

The crowd explodes with cheers.

...EMILY CARTER!

Geoff Penzer: She’s done it! She’s done!

“Don’t Die Digging” blasts over the PA as Emily holds her arms in the air while still on the mat. However, her theme music is quickly cut off as the ref heads to the outside and informs Melanie Sierra of something.

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, the referee has informed me that time experience right before the three count. Therefor, this match has been ruled a DRAW…

The crowd erupts with boos.

Geoff Penzer: Wow!

Melanie Sierra: … aaaaaand STIIIIIILLLLLLL your APEX Campion, NEST!

A “BULLSHIT” chant starts as both Nest and Emily slowly return to their feet. Nest snatches the APEX Championship away from the ref and slings it across his shoulder. He slowly walks over towards the ropes. But just then, Emily Carter places her hand on his shoulder. As Nest slowly turns around, Emily takes her hand off his shoulder and holds up five fingers in front of his face.

Geoff Penzer: I think Emily Carter wants overtime. She wants five more minutes.

A “FIVE MORE MINUTES!!!” chant breaks out. Nest looks out at the crowd to truly take it all in. He then turns back to Emily… and shakes his head. The crowd erupts with boos as Nest can be seen mouthing the words, “you don’t tell me what to do and neither does anyone else. This is MY NEST. These are MY RULES.

Nest goes to turn and make his way out of the ring. But Emily’s not done with him. So she grabs him by the arm and spins him around. But she gets caught with a punch to the face that knocks her down. The crowd erupts with boos.

Nest throws the championship down before waving up Emily. Can Emily gets up hunched over, Nest runs over and connects with a knee lift. He goes to follow up with a rolling elbow. But Emily ducks. When Nest turns around, Emily leaps up and plants him with a Jumping DDT. Emily then sits up Nest before running into the ropes. When she returns, she knocks him out with a Penalty Kick to an explosion of cheers.

Emily goes to leave. But then she looks down and notices the APEX Championship belt. She slowly reaches down and picks up the title. Emily looks at the championship before looking around at the cheering crowd. She looks back at the belt before tossing it onto Nest.

“Don’t Die Digging” blasts over the PA as Emily slowly makes her way out of the ring and makes her way up the aisle. Once she gets to the top of the entrance way, she looks back out into the ring before stepping through the curtain…

Two weeks ago, The APEX Championship Match between champion Nest and challenger Emily Carter ended without a clear winner. But in two weeks, we're running it back! On Pride 30, Nest will defend his APEX Championship against Emily Carter in one of the most highly anticipated rematches of the year! Will Nest leave with his APEX Championship in tow? Or will Emily Carter leave Greensboro as the new APEX Champion? Fine out Pride 30!

[FGA Office]

“Forever” hits and out comes Terrific Terry Tillman sporting a windbreaker jacket and shades. Behind him is his brother Maurice Graham rocking a suit. Tillman stops at the top of the ramp way and looks out over the fans before shaking his head in disgust. Graham stands at his side talking in his ear while pointing towards the ring. As the two head down to the ring Tillman ignores the majority of the fans while Graham continues to give him instructions.

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is your MAIN EVENT of the evening! Introducing first, from Orlando, Florida! Weighing in at 240 pounds … “TERRIFIC” TERRENCE TILLMAN!

As they arrive to the ring Tillman faces Graham who begins to pump Tillman up, slapping him in the face and shouting “Handle this!” Triple T rolls under the ropes, jumps up on the nearest corner and again looks out over the crowd before raising his fist in the air with an arrogant smile.

Geoff Penzer: It is main event time here on Pride as Terrence Tillman is gearing up to take on Jensen Banks! Triple T was victorious in his “Bound by Honor” match against Peaches. Tonight, he’s looking to make an even bigger statement with a win over the Old North Champion!

Once the beat of “The Outside” by Red kicks in, the curtains are pulled open and Jensen Banks steps out, nodding his head, wearing his black hoodie over his head. As he bobs his head to his music, Jensen slowly makes his way down to the ring, even mouthing the words to his theme. He slaps hands with some of the fans before reaching ringside, where he slowly removes his hood from over his head and unzips his hoodie.

Melanie Sierra: And his opponent, from Brooklyn, New York! Weighing in at 211 pounds! He is the reigning Old North Champion … JENSEN BANKS!

Jensen tosses his hoodie to the side and quickly slides into the ring before going over to the nearest corner and climbing to the middle turnbuckle. Flashing a small grin, Jensen points to himself before dropping down and leaning in his designate corner, waiting for the match to start.

Geoff Penzer: While Jensen Banks had a couple rough outings after his LDFC debut, Banks has really turned it on over the last few months with some pretty stellar performances. He’s got a number of challengers lining themselves up for a shot at his championship. Banks will have to continue competing at that high level if he wants to retain his title against the increasingly tough competition in the Old North Title ranks.

The match starts with both men circling the ring before locking up. After jockeying for position, Tillman moves Jensen into the ropes. The ref then gives both men until the count of five to break it up.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Tillman slowly make a clean break. He then goes to punch Banks. But stops at the last second before giving him a playful pat on the cheek. Banks then smacks Tillman’s hand away from him before shoving him back. Triple T smiles after knowing he just got under Banks’ skin.

The two men circle the ring once again before locking up. After jockeying for position, Tillman begins to move Banks across the ring. But at the last second, Banks pivots and presses Tillman up against the turnbuckles. The ref then goes over and gives both men until the count of five to break the hold.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Both men make a clean break. As Banks fakes a punch, Tillman quickly ducks and sticks his upper body between the middle and top ropes. The ref is then forced to move Banks back. Once distance has been created between the two, Tillman gets back in the ring.

The two men circle the ring once more. After sizing each other up, they lunge forward for a lock up. Tillman then ducks the collar & elbow tie up, goes behind Banks and applies a waist lock. But the move doesn’t stay on for long as Banks counters with a back elbow to the face. After performing a standing switch, he locks on a waist lock. Tillman then reaches down, pulls Banks’ arms from around his waist and transitions into a hammerlock from behind. He then spins Banks towards him before transitioning into a side headlock. The hold doesn’t stay on for long as Banks is able to slip out and reverse into a hammerlock of his own. Tillman then leans forward before reversing into another hammer lock. He then spins Banks towards him before applying a side headlock. Banks goes to shove Tillman off of him. But Tillman is quick to drop down to a knee. He keeps the hold applied while shaking his head at the crowd. The ref gets down and asks Banks if he wants to give up. But Banks refuses.

After battling his way back to his feet, Banks goes for a belly to back suplex. However, Tillman rolls over his shoulder, lands on his feet and reapplies the side headlock. But before he can get in on tight, Banks is able to slip out and reverse into another hammerlock. He then spins Tillman towards him before applying a side headlock. Tillman then shoves Banks off of him and into the ropes. When Banks comes back, Tillman knocks him down with a standing shoulder block to boos from the crowd. But the boos turn to cheers as Banks kips up and gets right in Tillman’s face. He then points to the far ropes, daring Tillman to knock him down. Tillman is happy to oblige as he takes off into the ropes. When Tillman returns, Banks knocks him down with a standing shoulder block. Tillman turns over and slaps the canvas before getting back to his feet. Triple T gets in the face of the Old North Champion. But the champ doesn’t back down. Tillman motions to walk away, then comes back and throws a sucker punch. But Banks blocks and counters with a punch of his own. Tillman throws another right hand. But Banks blocks and counters with another punch of his own. He nails Tillman with another punch… and another… and another. After a kick to the midsection, Banks takes Tillman and whips him into the ropes. When Tillman comes back, Banks goes for a back body drop. But Tillman flips in the air and lands on his feet before continuing to run into the ropes. When he comes back, he knocks Banks down with a spinning heel kick. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Banks kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Tillman’s athleticism was on display there as he landed on his feet after being given a back body drop.

Tillman picks up Banks, moves him into the corner and unleashes a series of knife edge chops that echo throughout the building. He then takes Banks and goes for an irish whip. But Banks reverses, sending Tillman into the opposite corner. Banks runs across the ring, but he gets caught by a back elbow to the face. Tillman then turns and springboards onto the middle ropes. But before he can flip back and complete the DDTripleT, Banks connects with a dropkick to the back, which knocks Tillman over the top rope and to the floor.

While Tillman is down on the floor, Maurice Graham heads over to check in on his little brother. As Graham helps Tillman back to his feet, Banks runs next to the ropes. When he comes back, he flips over the top rope and goes for a Fosbury Flop on Tillman. But Graham nudges Tillman out of the way, allowing himself to take the brunt of the blow.

Geoff Penzer: Banks connects with the Fosbury Flop. But Graham sacrificed himself after pushing Tillman out of the way.

As Banks gets up off of Graham, Tillman comes from behind and knocks him down with a clothesline. The crowd boos as he puts the boots to Banks before pulling him up off the floor. He then takes Banks and rolls him back into the ring. After sliding himself back in, he makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Banks kicks out.

Tillman picks up Banks and applies an arm wrench. Banks then rolls forward, leans back, kips up and reverses into an arm wrench of his own. Tillman then rolls forward, spins around on his knees, flips over with a headstand, spins, and reverses into a hammerlock from behind. He then spins Banks towards him before applying another side headlock. Banks then shoves Tillman off of him and into the ropes. When Tillman returns, Banks goes for a hip toss. But again, Tillman flips over and lands on his feet before running into the far ropes. When Tillman comes back, Banks leapfrogs over him. Tillman continues to run into the ropes. When Tillman returns, the crowd cheers as Banks knocks him down with a high knee. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Tillman kicks out.

Banks picks up Tillman, marches into the corner and slams him face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning Tillman around, Banks unleashes a ballistic combination of rights and lefts to the body. He then takes Tillman and whips him into the opposite corner. Banks charges across the ring. But again, Tillman catches him with a back elbow to the face. As Banks stumbles back, Tillman runs from out of the corner and throws out a savate kick. But Banks catches his foot. He then spins Tillman away from him before following up with a Lungblower. Banks then keeps Tillman held across his knees before rolling over. While Tillman’s in the prone position, Banks squats over Tillman before locking him in the Dragon Clutch.

Geoff Penzer: Nice transition into the submission by Banks!

The ref gets down and asks Tillman if he wants to give up. But Triple T refuses. So Banks pulls back, increasing the pressure of the hold.

Crowd: TAP! TAP! TAP! TAP!

Tillman can still be heard groaning in pain. The ref asks if he wants to give up. But again, Tillman refuses. So Banks lets go… only to then roll Tillman into a Bow & Arrow Hold.

Geoff Penzer: Tillman’s once again trapped with nowhere to go!

The ref asks Tillman if he wants to give up. But again, Tillman refuses. He reaches out with his left arm. But he’s out out of reach. That is, until Graham pushes the bottom rope forward and allows Tillman to grab onto it. The ref then gives Banks until the count of five to break the hold.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Banks reluctantly lets go. He then picks up Tillman before whipping him hard into the corner. After Tillman crashes into the turnbuckles. He staggers out of the corner before dropping down to his knees. As Banks goes over and slowly picks him up, Tillman rolls him up in a small package.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Banks kicks out.

After both men scramble to get back to their feet, Banks socks him with a right hand that knocks him down. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Tillman gets his shoulder up.

Banks picks up Tillman and goes for a vertical suplex. But Tillman slips down from behind. He then spins Banks around and clocks him with a roundhouse kick. The crowd boos as he makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Banks gets his shoulder up.

Tillman picks up Banks and goes for an irish whip. But Banks reverses, sending Tillman into the ropes. When Tillman returns, Banks leapfrogs over him. But unbeknownst to Banks, Tillman stops right behind him. So when Banks turns around, he turns right into a dropsault from Tillman. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Banks gets his shoulder up.

Tillman picks up Banks and whips him into the ropes. When Banks returns, Tillman knocks him down with a savate kick. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Banks gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Tillman connects with the Chin Checka, but it only gets two! Both of these men have left this crowd amazed and astounded here tonight. But right now, it’s Triple T that’s in control...

Tillman picks up Banks, marches into the corner and slams him face-first onto the top turnbuckle. He then hoists himself up onto the middle ropes, grabs Banks and plants him with a Tornado DDT. While Banks slowly turns over, Tillman takes off into the ropes. As Banks gets up and is hunched over, Tillman knocks him back down with a Scissors Kick. The crowd boos as Tillman turns him over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Banks gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Tillman with the Terrific Kick! But it only gets two!

Tillman picks up Banks from behind and hooks one arm. Before he can hook the other arm for a Tiger Suplex, Banks jumps up and reverses into a wheelbarrow victory roll.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Tillman kicks out.

After both men scramble to get back to their feet, Tillman throws out another roundhouse kick. This time, Banks ducks, hops onto Tillman’s shoulders and spikes him with an inverted frankensteiner to cheers and applause. He then pulls up Tillman, hooks his arms, lifts him up and delivers a double underhook sitout facebuster. Banks turns him over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THR-NO!

The crowd sighs, then boos as Tillman gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Close call there for The Terrific One!

Banks picks up Tillman and whips him into the ropes. When Tillman returns, Banks throws out a clothesline. But Tillman ducks and runs into the far ropes. When he returns, Banks knocks him down with a jumping calf kick. After Tillman returns to his feet, Banks returns him to the mat with another jumping calf kick. Once Tillman gets back to his feet, he throws out a wild haymaker. But Banks ducks, grabs him from behind, lifts him up, spins and throws him down with a blue thunder bomb to cheers and applause.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THR-NO!

The crowd sighs, then boos as Tillman gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Tillman juuust beat the three count yet again!

Banks gets up to his feet and goes to pick up Tillman. But Tillman has rolled out onto the apron and to the floor. So Banks takes off into the far ropes. When he turns, the crowd cheers as he knocks Tillman down with a slingshot plancha. Banks rolls back into the ring before running into the far ropes. As Graham goes to check on Tillman, the crowd cheers as Banks lunges through the ropes and knocks Graham down with an elbow suicida. He then slides back into the ring before running back into the far ropes. As Tillman is getting back to his feet, the crowd cheers as Banks leaps through the ropes and knocks him down with an elbow suicida.

Geoff Penzer: Jensen Banks with three straight dives to the floor!

Banks picks up Tillman, slams him face-first onto the apron and shoves him back into the ring. After Banks gets back up on the apron, he doubles Tillman over with a shoulder thrust through the ropes. He follows up with a slingshot DDT. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THRE-NO!

The crowd sighs, then boos as Tillman grabs the bottom rope.

Banks picks up Tillman, nails him with four punches, steps back and throws out a Rolling Kesagiri Chop. But Tillman ducks. When Banks turns around, Tillman drops him down a Leaping Reverse STO.

Geoff Penzer: Pride Before The Fall!

Tillman picks up Banks and whips him into the ropes. He then runs, jumps and connects with a Corner Splash. Tillman takes Banks and whips him into the opposite corner. He runs across the ring, leaps into the corner and connects with another Corner Splash. Tillman turns away from the corner before connecting with a CCS Enzuigiri. After Banks crumbles from out of the corner, Tillman steps through the ropes and begins to climb up to the top turnbuckle. But once he’s near the top, Banks quickly gets up, grabs him and slams him down to the canvas.

Geoff Penzer: Tillman thought he was about to end this with that 450 off the top. But Banks had other plans!

After Tillman slowly gets up and turns around, Banks heads over and knocks him down with a Rolling Kesagiri Chop. He then picks up Tillman, places him in a three quarter facelock and delivers a Standing Shiranui to cheers from the crowd.

Geoff Penzer: banks has got Tillman right where he wants him! There’s only one thing left for him to do!

Banks returns to his feet and calls for the Bank Shot, which elicits cheers from the crowd. Tillman can be seen stirring on the mat while Banks gets in position. Once Tillman returns to his feet, Banks starts getting antsy. As soon as Tillman turns around, Banks motions for the Bank Shot. But the crowd boos as he gets tripped up by Graham on the outside. Banks then turns around and kicks at the ropes, which causes Graham to move back. While Banks is distracted, Tillman springboards onto the middle ropes from out of nowhere, backflips back and follows through with a sitout inverted DDT.

Geoff Penzer: DDTripleT from out of nowhere!

The crowd continues to boo Tillman while he drags Banks into position. He then steps through the ropes, scales up to the top turnbuckle, flips off and connects with a 450 Splash.

Geoff Penzer: Skyfall! That’s gotta be it right there!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

“Forever” blares throughout the venue to boos from the crowd.

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, here is your winner… TERRENCE TILLMAN!

Graham nudges the ref out of the way before raining Tillman arm in the air. The crowd erupts with boos as the two men parade around the ring.

Geoff Penzer: This match was supposed to answer the question of who was the better man between these two. Well after that match, I think we all know exactly who the better man is.

Tillman and Graham exit the ring. Once Banks finally returns to his feet, he shakes his head as Tillman raises his arms in the air on his way back up the aisle

For Melanie Sierra and everyone else here in LDFC, this is Geoff Penzer signing off! We’ll see you next time on another episode of Pride! Goodnight, everyone!