Vertigo (01.07.17)

[FGA Office]

[FGA Office]

¡Uno!
¡Dos!
¡Tres!
¡Catorce!


Hello hello
(Hola)
I'm at a place called Vertigo
(Donde esta?)
It's everything I wish I didn't know
Except you give me something
I can feel, feel


Yea, yea, yea, yea, yea, yea, yea, yea
Yea, yea, yea, yea, yea, yea, yea, yea

Horncastle Arena
Addington, Christchurch, NZ

"Nobody Likes Me" by Deuce ft. Ronnie Radke hits the speakers. Bells are heard chiming through the speakers as the music comes in blazing, the lights surveying the arena, but then it stays focused on the top of the ramp with a bright white light. Zero McHannon walks through the curtain with the FGA World Championship fit firmly around his waist, and a black zip up with the hood over his head and a leather jacket over the hoodie. He turns his back to the audience, holding up a "Z" with both hands to the crowd, then turning around abruptly, and rips the "Z" apart.

“Nobody likes me,
No one likes me,
But I don't like them,
Uh uh, I don't, nu uh"

Zero holds his arms out for a moment and raises his head to take in the atmosphere from the fans as they shower him in hate, then slowly starts to make his way down the ramp. He walks down the ramp as fans are throwing jeers in his face, but Zero completely ignores them, and keeps his eyes fixated on the ring. McHannon stops at the bottom of the ramp and bounces on the balls of his feet, looking from one side of the arena to the other, then sliding in through the bottom rope, and bouncing right up to his feet.

“All this hate you gave me that turned me deranged
Now I'm burning in the flames
All the things you said, they've been stuck in my head
And now I'm at it again, an addict
Welcome to hell, bitch
You can't do nothing about it

Out of my way f*ggot, you heard what I said damn it
I am an automatic ready to fire back at
All the f*ckers laughing
Not gonna lie about it, I'm gonna wreck havoc
Everyone's dying
Don't matter"

Zero McHannon climbs the nearest turnbuckle spread his arms and begins to yell towards the crowd as they do their best to cheer over him with jeers. He freezes for a moment, taking in the reaction from the audience, then hops from the corner ropes, and tests the mat under his feet. He's talking to himself as he crosses the ring and stands up on the other turnbuckle, brushing off his shoulder to the crowd, and slapping himself in the chest. Finally, he unbuckles the FGA World Championship from his waist and holds it high above his head with one hand as the crowd tries to drown him out.

"This is my chance
Maybe my last
And if I leave
There's no way back

This is your fate
When worlds collapse
I took my pain
Now give it backkkkkkk"

McHannon walks into the middle of the ring with the title in on hand, looking around at the arena that gone into a frenzy to see Zero McHannon kicking off the show. A microphone is handed to him through the middle ropes, but Zero doesn’t talk right away, but keeps turning and looking out towards the audience. McHannon looks down at the FGA World Championship in his hand, then right back up again.

Zero McHannon: After everything I’ve done for you, this is the way it’s going to be? Admit it. How stupid was watching Vertigo without me on it? You’ve missed out on amazing matches, watching me let people step up with a mic in their hand while they get shredded, and the man who made this company what it was while some people I know were trying to quit this sport… some of them were sitting in a bean bag at the home, catching up on the latest episodes of Grey’s Anatomy while some of us kept this company relevant. Some of us stepped it up when their time came, and others…? Well, if grades were given out for effort, they’d pass the class.

Zero takes a quick side glance to the crowd on the other end of the arena.

Zero McHannon: You’ve had to watch while everyone was okay with the company falling to those mediocre standards. Final Frontier! Chandler “Golden Boy” Scott versus the walking erection, Dan Herrera. Salem Cartier and Annie Zellor in a tight contest of who can weigh less than my morning sh*ts. The FGA upcoming star… Chris Madison.

The fans start to cheer some, but Zero waves them down.

Zero McHannon: Versus Fujiko’s personal muff licker, Ryan LeCavalier. And oh man. I mean… how could you not sleep through that main event battle? Final Frontier ending with a six man tag team match…. Wait for it….

He continues to look at the crowd.

Zero McHannon: Wait for it…

McHannon stands up like he just got an idea.

Zero McHannon: That meant absolutely not a damn thing.

The crowd starts to boo, but Zero starts to wave them down again. He paces the ring for a moment and lets the fans get the hate out of their system.

Zero McHannon: But every single one of you wanted to try and sh*t on me? I don’t know if you guys noticed, but 2016 was MY year, not anyone else here. That’s what happens when you kids try and ride your bike on the highway.

Zero pauses.

Zero McHannon: FGA Best Brawler. FGA Match of the Year. FGA Most Hated.

Another pause.

Zero McHannon: FGA WRESTLER OF THE F*CKING YEAR!

McHannon grabs the tops ropes and yells into the microphone, then steps back towards the center of the ring.

Zero McHannon: Hands down, pound for pound, one of the best athletes in this sport. Period. Did you see how excited everyone got whenever I walked away from FGA with the world title? The announcement for the tournament sparked a buzz and had everyone invested. People thanking me for walking away because they get a chance of a lifetime… one they normally wouldn’t get if I didn’t GIVE them that opportunity. People thanking me for leaving so that the playing field leveled out a bit. Zero McHannon didn’t have to put on the best matches of the year anymore and bust his balls to keep fighting to become a three time FGA World Champion. This locker room could sit back and go at their own pace as long as I wasn’t walking through the hallways with my world championship. The roster cracked jokes with each other and tried to put on their serious faces for one of the biggest pay per views of the year. They think all this… is a game.

Zero swings the FGA World Championship around his waist and buckles it. There’s a “Z” spray painted onto the front plate.

Zero McHannon: No more cruise control. Your real FGA World Champion is back. If you thought 2017 was going straight in the sh*tter, think again. We’re done playing with that cardboard belt Cordy is carrying around somewhere back there.

This time McHannon looks towards the rampway and gives a little laugh.

Zero McHannon: Cordy talked a big game on social media and the cameras about me, but she really didn’t have the ass behind her to back up anything she said to me.

A smirk from Zero as he holds up a finger.

Zero McHannon: She said after she won that buddy league tournament she was going to hunt me down and put any doubt that she deserves to be the world champion to rest. Well, guess what? HELL. New Kingdom Pro. HKW Underground. I was all over the place, defending MY world championship and basically giving this company a free expense paid advertisement around the world… Where was Cordy?

He looks back towards the ramp again, leaning his off hand on the belt around his waist.

Zero McHannon: You talked all that bullsh*t about coming on whatever turf I was on and whooping my ass in front of the world in a wrestling match to not only prove it to everyone watching at home, but to yourself… that you could beat me and become the real new FGA World Champion, because even you knew how much trash that tournament they held was. You promised to bring the fight to me, but it had to be the other way around because you obviously had no interest in facing some real competition once you won that little Target’s toy of yours. You were perfectly fine with not defending your title at Final Frontier when I had to go through wars every month or two. You were okay with thinking that you finally made it to the top… It didn’t matter how you got there anymore. That’s your problem Cordy. You tried to forget about me.

Zero walks towards the ropes that are rampside and spits to the outside.

Zero McHannon: I didn’t forget about you, Oprah. You really thought you were going to talk to me like that and hope it quietly faded away so you could brush it under the rug? Nah-uh. You wanted a fight? You wanted to prove something? Make the climb back to the top again after you come out here, kiss my ass, and tell the world that I’m the real FGA World Champion because you accepted, just like everyone else, to try and make the short climb there. Some funky stuff goes down when I walked out. Cordy wins the world championship. That will forever be the destiny of Cordy Stevenson. A stand-in that kept my toilet seat warm while I went on a little vacation. Someone who went after the top title whenever this company hit one of its weak points, and capitalized. I bet your friends, family, and stalkers are really proud of you. It was like watching Allen Iverson compete in the Special Olympics. The greatest moment you, and everyone else who loves you, could have.

His eyes narrow.

Zero McHannon: Until I came back. Kicked down the doors to the company that I carried for a full year and put an end to you thinking it was just going to be that easy. There’s a line to face the real champion of this place, Cordy. Get in it.

The lights dim down and take on a purplish hue as a light smoky mist fills the entranceway. The opening to A$AP Ferg's "New Level" cues up sending the crowd into an uproar.

I’m on a new level
I’m on it, I’m on it

As the beat drops, the crowd gives a loud roar as the FGA World and Tag Team Champion, Cordelia Stevenson emerges from the mist. Her energy is a bit different this time however. She still stops atop the ramp, her head on a swivel as she glances at the New Zealand crowd, but there is no bopping to the music. Instead she gives a slight nod of approval as she flips the hoodie from her head. She then focuses her glare on the man that assaulted her after the main event at Final Frontier and proceeds down the ramp towards him. The fans reach out to her but her focus is solely on the man in the ring . She makes her way around the ring, slowly, as if stalking her prey, grabbing a microphone while she’s at it before finally walking up the steps and stepping into the ring. She motions for the music to be cut as the crowd thunders at the sight of she and Zero in the ring.

Cordy Stevenson: You know, I’m getting real sick and tired of the little pattern that has seemed to form here. You know the one… the one where it seems that after every single pay per view match I have, after a long hard fought victory, someone feels the need to waltz their ass down to the ring and try to make a statement at either my or my partner’s expense. You don’t believe me? Well let’s take a look at things shall we.

She slips the World title from her shoulder and holds it in her hand as she paces around the ring. She then holds up a finger.

Cordy Stevenson: First, we had Above and Beyond. Dan and I fought tooth and nail to overcome not only RubyWay but The Next Level in order to retain our titles, and as soon as the bell rang… The Usual Suspects made their way out.

A roar of disapproval comes from the crowd at the mentioning of The Usual Suspects

Cordy Stevenson: Anthony Rother and his goons wanted to make a statement by attacking Dan and I and stealing our belts. Unfortunately for them, they weren’t quite ready when Dan and I responded in kind at…

She holds up two fingers now.

Cordy Stevenson: Retribution. After months of having to deal with Rother and Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dumb pretending to be the rightful FGA Champions, Dan and I had our vengeance in a ladder match.

She stops pacing and lets out a sigh.

Cordy Stevenson: Only for Rubyway to strike after the match was over; giving us this whole spiel about being our judges, jury and executioners and telling us how they were going to change the landscape of FGA forever.

Cordelia rolls her eyes, and places her hand up to her forehead as if searching the horizon for them.

Cordelia Stevenson: And then not too long after that, Kevin Hardaway hightailed it out of here when he realized that this wasn’t the FGA of 2012 and his mediocrity just didn’t cut it anymore. RubyWay came… and RubyWay went and not a single soul cared.

She pauses for a moment, a sly smile spreading on her face.

Cordelia Stevenson: The same way that no one cared when a certain someone walked out of this company.

She saunters around the ring a bit, shaking her head before shooting a glance at him.

Cordelia Stevenson: And that’s the entire reason why you’re back, isn’t it Zero. Because no one begged for you to stay? You walked clean out the door, thinking you’d harm us but the wheel kept on spinning. It lost no momentum, and made you realize just how disposable you were. As important as you tried to make yourself out to be, these past few months have made it clear as day. FGA didn’t need Zero McHannon. Mako Mancini, or whatever the hell you like to call yourself when you up and disappear and run away. You cried for appreciation. You cried for respect, and your absence brought neither. So now…

She stops in the center of the ring, raising her eyes directly to the camera.

Cordelia Stevenson: … you’re back. And all those things you sought, are still the things that you seek. But now…

She chuckles.

Cordelia Stevenson: Now you’re looking to do it at my expense. I admit it. You caught me slipping, McHannon and you never should have. I always expected your ugly mug to appear back here at one point or another, so what happened at Final Frontier? Yeah, that’s on me. I should have known better than to think you’d have the balls to confront me face to face. I should have known better, given your track record, than to think you were any better than RubyWay; than The Usual Suspects; silly of me to think you’d be somewhat… innovative in your approach. But innovative isn’t you Zero. It never has been. Never have I looked at you and thought for one second I’d be treated to something new. You are who you’ve always been my friend.

She points an accusatory finger at him and takes a step forward.

Cordelia Stevenson: A jealous snake.

She hisses.

Cordelia Stevenson: Nothing more and nothing less. Always bitter at those who were where you always wanted to be. You WERE the FGA World Champion, Zero. No one can ever take that away from you. But you decided to take that away from yourself the moment you felt this company was no longer worth it, the moment you decided that you no longer wanted to be here; the moment that you chose to walk out of that door. You gave it all away Zero. You relinquished your FGA World Championship and why? You tried to make a statement and all you did was make yourself look foolish. And now? You’re trying to save face, I get that. But this is a problem you do not want, McHannon. I always knew you’d be back. Why go after the prey when I knew it’d walk right back into my back yard? People like you are predictable. I can read you from a mile away. I know how you work, and your ego wouldn’t let you stand aside and watch me take my place as FGA’s champion. And now you want to waltz back in, like hey guys… it’s me, I hope you didn’t forget about meee, I’m the FGA Champion, remember?!

She shakes her head.

Cordelia Stevenson: But you’re not. I’M the FGA World Champion, and you? You are a name from the not so distant past that we’d all like to forget.

Zero storms off the ropes and gets in Cordy’s face.

Zero McHannon: I AM THE THREE TIME FGA WORLD CHAMPION!

They have a bit of a staredown in the middle of the ring before McHannon takes a few steps backwards.

Zero McHannon: Everyone who I wanted to be? Why would I want to be any of you? You degrade the sport of wrestling every single time you open your f*cking mouths. You became just another tumblr girl that teenagers google and beat off to. You’re standing here and telling this long story about the things you’ve had to go through to become a double champion, but I don’t want that either. I have everything I need right here already.

McHannon raises his title with the spray painted “Z” on it in Cordy’s face.

Zero McHannon: Held 17 times. 11 different people. 21 title defenses, including the ones I’ve done when I left. Five years since November 11th, 2011. The crown jewel of FGA. The title that only some of the GREATS of this company have held.

He steps away and holds his championship to a mixed reaction from the crowd, some cheering for the title, but booing McHannon. Zero steps forward again and points at Cordy’s title.

Zero McHannon: Nothing. Your stupid title means nothing. One holder. No defenses. Born only a few months ago. That’s the history of your title compared to mine. My title has seen its years and been passed around more than some of your friends.

Zero starts to pace one corner of the ring now.

Zero McHannon: Don’t ever disrespect me, what I’ve done, or what this FGA World Championship really means. This is what you wanted deep down. You thought you could just talk a little smack to me and accept your reign as being a double champion in the company. What you fail to realize is that you couldn’t get it done whenever you faced someone who has really ran this company. Chandler. Me. Chris Q made your ankle look like a dog’s chew toy. Chandler is MY bitch. You’re his bitch. That makes you my bitch too.

A sick smile crosses Zero face as he looks at Cordy, but raises the microphone again.

Zero McHannon: Oh how far you’ve fallen since the PDW days, Cordy. You got worse and I got better. You stayed in the comfort zone of tag team wrestling and competing for a world championship against who have no real claim to this title to begin with. While you were doing that, I took the world of wrestling by the balls. I come back from Morocco and went straight to the top. You can say all you want about nobody caring about me, but I’m pretty sure everyone prefered me over you to begin with. Do I need to go down the list again of everything I did, and you didn’t do. Walk away from the embarrassment while you still can, Cordy. You don’t have what it takes to wrestle on the extra level anymore compared to people like me. I was never beaten for this world championship. You said it yourself, “THANK YOU, ZERO” because you knew that you’d never get another chance to compete for the championship while Dan was holding you down, like he does every time you two step into the ring. Go back to where you belong. Tag team wrestling. Gone with you now, dog.

McHannon turns his back to Cordy and looks out to the jeers from the crowd. Cordy stands there staring daggers through his back. Luckily for him, looks can’t kill.

Cordy Stevenson: Held 17 different times by 11 different people. Some of the best in this damn business have held that title, you’re absolutely right. For damn near five years, that title right there….

She points to it.

Cordy Stevenson: … was the crown jewel of not only this company, but the wrestling industry in general. For damn near five years, Zero. And then you got your hands on it, and just like the virus you are, you destroyed it by turning it into a spectacle… for all the wrong reasons. You didn’t uphold its honor, instead of the crown jewel that it is, YOU cheapened it to nothing more than a bargaining chip to try and stroke your own ego. YOU stripped it of its significance the moment you deemed this company insignificant, and it saddens me… knowing what I went through to try and get that very title, to see so much history wasted… by you. You have grown tremendously as a wrestler since our days in PDW Zero. I applaud you. I do. At about a decade in the game, goddamn, it took you long enough. But one thing you never were and still aren’t til this day… is better than me. I can be a tumblr girl that all of the guys and girls drool over. I can be the girl that posts a million pics on twitter and gets just as many likes… but at the end of the day you and I both know that I’m also the girl that you can’t hold a damn candle to in the ring, and that’s always been the case. It’s the reason why my name stayed in your mouth. Even when I was injured and on the sidelines, your eyes were green with envy because more people cared about when I was returning to the ring than about anything you were doing. No matter where we are, Cordelia Stevenson overshadowed you, and I know it’s eaten you alive. Probably still is. For you to be in this business for damn near three times the time I have, and you’re just NOW hitting a level where our names can even be whispered in the same breath... It’s not my fault you couldn’t captivate these people Zero. What you did capture though, was that… right there. THAT was the only possible thing you could ever hold over me… until, you made…

She holds up her own title proudly.

Cordelia Stevenson: … this possible. Just by being you. Just by being typical, self indulgent and narcissistic Zero. I don’t need THAT…

She points to his title once again.

Cordelia Stevenson: ...to uphold the honor that it represents. I do that with my actions, by acting accordingly as the champion of this company. But you were right about one thing, McHannon. You never were beaten for THAT belt.

A slow smile spreads itself across her face.

Cordelia Stevenson: I could change that for you if you’d like.

The crowd thunders at Cordelia’s words as she lowers the mic to her side. Zero gives off a small laugh in Cordy’s direction before turning away from her, then turns right back around and tries to blast her in the face!

Blocked!

Cordy pulls Zero in for the Allure!

But McHannon manages to wiggle his way out of the hold and slides right out of the ring under the bottom rope, reaching in for his world championship before taking a few steps back from the ring. Stevenson is motioning for him to get back in, but Zero throws a hand up and waves her off before slowly making his way back up the ramp. Cordy takes a step onto the corner turnbuckle and holds up her title, but back on the ramp McHannon is just giving a small laugh in her direction before the scene transitions away.

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

Kris Cruise: Hello everyone and welcome to the first Vertigo of 2017! I’m Kris Cruise! Joining me as always is my colleague, Stephy Auger, and it looks like we’re kicking of 2017 with a bang! Zero McHannon has once again showed up with “his” World Championship belt! What the heck is going on around here, Stephy!?

Stephy Auger: We all saw McHannon lay out that fraud of a champion, Cordy Stevenson, at Final Frontier. Then after he did what he does best - shredding people on the mic - she had the nerve to attack our real World Champion! The nerve of her, Cruise! The nerve!

Kris Cruise: Woah woah woah, it was McHannon that tried to attack her first! Not to mention, McHannon doesn’t work here! He’s not our World Champion! Cordy Stevenson is! So why is that man still able to seemingly drop in whenever he pleases and take advantage of a live mic?

Stephy Auger: Who says he’s not back?

Kris Cruise: Do you know something I don’t?

Stephy Auger: Let’s be honest here, Cruise. What happened at Final Frontier? He caught everyone offguard. Maybe everyone was so shocked by his presence that they didn’t cut off the mic. But tonight? There’s no way McHannon’s music is going to play and there’s no way they’re going to give him a live mic without him being back in some way, shape or form. But let’s not worry about the How’s and Why’s, Cruise. Our REAL World Champion is back!

Kris Cruise: Well that remains to be seen since right now, Cordy Stevenson is the ONLY World Champion in FGA and I’ll continue to refer to her as such until something changes. Speaking of which, tonight in our main event, it’ll be Champion versus Champion when the new Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion, Annie Zellor, takes on our ONLY World Champion, Cordy Stevenson!

Stephy Auger: Well it’s not Champion vs. Champion unless Zero McHannon is involved. But with that being said, it’s still going to be a heck of a match. Annie Zellor is fresh off of recapturing HER Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship from that Witch, Salem Cartier…

Kris Cruise: With the help of The Crimson Baroness!

Stephy Auger: Yeah, and? It was a Ladder Match. Which meant No Disqualification. So get over it! Annie is once again the champion. She’s stated her intentions on wanting to be the best Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion ever. But tonight, she could further raise her stock in this company by beating Cordy Stevenson, even if her opponent tonight is a fraud.

Kris Cruise: Also here tonight, one half of the Tag Team Champions, Dan Herrera, goes one on one against Izzy Anders!

Stephy Auger: Izzy Anders just defeated Noelle Smith at Final Frontier. She’s still hellbent on continuing her quest against FGA. What better way to send a message than by roughing up “The Boss” Dan Herrera?

Kris Cruise: We’ve got title implications later on tonight when The Usual Suspects and the Elysian Empire meet up one more time!

Stephy Auger: Yeah, it’s about time that Cordy and Dan get off their butts and actually defend those belts! They will be defended next week when we make our debut in lovely Australia! But tonight, the #1 contenders will be determined in that tag match. Each team as a win a peice. This is the rubber match and it’s for all the marbles.

Kris Cruise: We’ve also got Savannah Taylor, Noelle Smith, Julian Tijerina and Blake Rogers in action. Sadie San Francisco makes her FGA in-ring debut here tonight. Then of course, it’s the big return match from Final Frontier featuring “Big John Match” John Blade! We’ve got all this, including what should be an excellent main event, in store for you all here tonight. But right now, let’s send it on over to the ring...

AMIRA vs. Bean Bands

The arena darkens, then the stroke of a single piano key echoes through the sound system. A spotlight begins illuminating the stage as a woman's voice sings, accompanied by the soft sounds of a violin.

AMIRA

AMIIIRRAAA

The violin instrumentals intensify as none other than the artist formerly known as Skylar Cloud, the one and only AMIRA emerges from the darkness, standing in the spotlight with her arms extended outward.

AMIRA, she's the best! Better than all the rest!

She slowly starts making her way to the ring, with the lights now strobing around her.

J.A. Aldridge: The following is your opening contest of the evening! It is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Los Angeles, California! Weighing in at 143 pounds… AAAAAAAMIIIIIIIIIRAAAAAAAA!

AMIRA, she's so cool! Over you, she will rule!

Jeering fans in the front row tries to get her attention as she approaches the ringside area, but she chooses to ignore them and head up the ring steps.

Sheeee used to say to reach for the SKYYYY-lar; now she crushes all who deffyyy her! She's witty, strong and has no fear; the age of AMIRA is heeere!

After stopping in the middle of the ring apron with her back to the ropes, she raises a fist in the air, before stepping into the ring. The lights start to return as she takes the center of the ring and then takes her corner.

J.A. Aldridge: And her opponent, already in the ring… BEAN BANDS!

Bands gets a small round of cheers from the crowd while he throws his hands in the air.

Kris Cruise: The former Skylar Cloud, who has now rechristened herself as AMIRA, will be making her return to the ring after several months away.

Stephy Auger: Well now that all of those issues are now behind her, she can go back to doing what she does best?

Kris Cruise: Which is what, being a snakeoil salesman?

Stephy Auger: I’m telling her you said that!

The bell sounds when AMIRA and Bands start locking up. After jockeying for position, Bands uses his strength advantage to move AMIRA across the ring. While he’s got AMIRA pressed up against the corner, the ref gives them until the count of five to break it up.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Both grapplers make a clean break… until AMIRA rakes Bands across the eyes, eliciting boos from the crowd.

Kris Cruise: I see she hasn’t changed her dirty ways inside the ring.

Stephy Auger: Whaaaat, it was just a rake to the eyes.

Kris Cruise: … Did you even hear what you just said?

AMIRA switches positions with Bands and lights up his chest with knife edge chops in the corner. The boos continue as she delivers a jumping toe kick combo before delivering a jumping back kick that sends Bands slumping down in the corner.

Kris Cruise: Boy, did Bands get rocked by that kick.

Stephy Auger: I’d be surprised if he knew which country he was on right now.

While Bands is in a seated position, AMIRA begins to scrape her boots repeatedly across his face before choking him. AMIRA pulls down on the top rope while the ref gives her until the count of five to break the hold.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

AMIRA reluctantly lets go. After pulling Bands back up to his feet, she takes him and whips him into the opposite corner. AMIRA then runs across the ring and connects with a corner cartwheel jumping high kick. While Bands is dazed, AMIRA steps out onto the apron, pulls Bands’ upper body through the ropes and delivers a knee strike flurry before delivering a scissors kick.

Kris Cruise: My goodness, Bean Bands just got clobbered by those flurry of knees...

Stephy Auger: Not to mention that scissors kick.

AMIRA heads back into the ring and makes the cover.

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

Bands gets his shoulder up.

Stephy Auger: Bean Bands proving how dumb he is by getting his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Bean Bands is a hot prospect coming out of Cleveland, Ohio. He was a multi-time champion at the collegiate level.

Stephy Auger: Oh yeah? I don’t remember asking for his accolades.



AMIRA takes Bands and whips him into the ropes. When Bands returns, AMIRA flattens him with a jumping knee strike. She makes the cover.

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

Bands gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Bean Bands something some resiliency. Even though he’s been outmatched, he’s not staying down.

Stephy Auger: Well don’t worry. AMIRA isn’t going to blow this like his beloved Indians blew that 3-1 lead in the World Series. She’s got this one in the bag. It’s only a matter of time until she puts him down for good.

AMIRA takes Bands and whips him into the corner. She runs across the ring and into the corner, but Bands knocks her back with a back elbow, which garners cheers from the crowd.

Stephy Auger: Uh oh...

After shaking off the blow, AMIRA runs back into the corner. This time, Bands knocks her back with a boot to the face, which garners even more cheers.

Kris Cruise: Look at Bean Bands fighting back!

While AMIRA is dazed, Bands charges out of the corner and goes for Face Meets Fist (Superman Punch). But AMIRA rolls underneath it. After Bands lands on his feet and turns around, the crowd boos when AMIRA runs over and throws him down with a spinning sitout sleeper slam transitioned into a scarfhold neck crank.

Kris Cruise: New AMIRAcana!

Stephy Auger: Did you see how smoothly she just slipped into that submission, Cruise?

As soon as AMIRA applies more pressure, Bands quickly taps out with his free hand. The ref calls for the bell.

The crowd boos as “AMIRA” hits the speakers.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, AMIRA!

The crowd continue to boo as AMIRA gets her arm raised.

Kris Cruise: AMIRA picks up the win in dominant fashion over Bean Bands! In the weeks leading up to her in-ring return, AMIRA had been making a lot negative comments towards some of the women on this roster. In particular, Nero Darling.

Stephy Auger: Have you noticed that she’s been awfully quiet, too? If that blue-haired brat knew any better, she’d keep her mouth shut and stay out of AMIRA’s way.

[FGA Office]

The crowd are beginning to settle down after AMIRA’s win in the opening contest when, suddenly, the opening chords of “Low Self Opinion” begin to play throughout the arena. The New Zealand fans burst into cheers as ‘The Tenacious Little Bastard’ steps out from behind the curtain with his arms outstretched to the side.

Kris Cruise: Looks like Dom Harter made the trip down here to New Zealand after all, Stephy.

Stephy Auger: You mean after all his bellyaching? I’m guessing he got offered something to make it worth his while, that’s how you get Dom Harter to do anything.

Harter isn’t dressed to wrestle, obviously, and is instead wearing his ‘New Leaf’ t-shirt and some jeans. He poses at the top of the aisle, soaking in the cheers, before making his way down the aisle. The fans continue cheering as Dom slides into the ring under the bottom rope.

Kris Cruise: I guess we’ll find out what he’s here for in a moment.

J.A. Aldridge hands Dom a microphone before he paces around the ring, waiting for the crowd to quieten down. As they do so, he begins to speak.

Dom Harter: How we all doing tonight, Christchurch?

The cheap pop gets the expected reaction.

Dom Harter: That’s what I like to hear. Now, you’re all aware that it’s been about two weeks since I last stood in an FGA ring. Christmas Eve, at Final Frontier, when Cordy Stevenson, Johnny Karma, and myself defeated The Usual Suspects in that six man tag match…

Another cheer from the fans as Harter smirks to himself, holding a hand over his heart as he shows his appreciation for the sentiment shown.

Dom Harter: Before Zero McHannon reappeared…

The cheers turn to boos quite quickly, and Dom just stands there shaking his head.

Stephy Auger: The REAL FGA World Champion laid out the pretender after the main event two weeks ago, and Harter was nowhere to be seen then.

Kris Cruise: He’d left the ring, he probably didn’t even see what was going on.

Harter lifts the microphone back to his lips as he gets ready to speak again.

Dom Harter: I’ll save my speech on that for now, it’s neither the time nor the place. No. I’m here because I have more pressing issues when it comes to titles here in FGA. I’m here to show my appreciation to you fans for helping me have, really, what can only be described as a great 2016. From when I returned from my injury and defeated Izzy Anders; as I went on a winning streak here, losing only one match to Chandler Scott in the entire year; as I ended my 2016 in FGA winning in the main event at Final Frontier. And I’ve continued those winning ways into 2017, just ask Annie Zellor…

Dom gestures towards the backstage area; that familiar crooked grin is spread across his face as he references his recent victory in the first round of the Young Guns Cup.

Dom Harter: And that’s not even mentioning what I’ve achieved elsewhere, and the impact I’ve had around the wrestling world. Which is a hell of a lot better than where I was this time last year! It’s a hell of a lot better than my 2015 turned out to be. It’s why I can stand here and say I’m the greatest wrestler aged under twenty-five in the world today, and mean it. It’s why I can stand and call myself a STAAAARRRR, and mean it. Because I turned over a new leaf, and I got a new lease of life. But–

He exclaims, holding up one hand.

Dom Harter: –but…there was one thing missing from my 2016. One thing that I strived for in 2015, and I know I blew my chance then. But now is a different time, we’re in a different position. And, quite frankly, I think 2017 is the year in which I complete my Grand Slam…

Kris Cruise: Harter wanting the Grand Slam?! We know he only needs one belt to complete that, and that he recently defeated the current Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion, Annie Zellor in the first round of the Young Guns Cup.

Stephy Auger: Her ribs were still injured from a previous match, he can’t use that as a reason for challenging for her title, Cruise.

Kris Cruise: What about his victories over Izzy, Ryan, Tony, Johnny Cannon, Cordy, The Usual Suspects? His previous victory over Annie to qualify for the Frontier Lions Cup?

Stephy Auger: By disqualification!

The crowd’s cheers begin to die down as Harter continues smirking.

Dom Harter: That’s what I thought. So, Annie, I’m talking to you right now. I know you’ve got a big match coming up tonight so take your time to think this one over. I know you’re probably still sour at me about what happened in London, so take some time to get over that before you answer. But right here, right now, I’m challenging you to a match at Grapple Kingdom! And I want you, Annie, to put your title on the line! I want my shot at the Grand Slam – no distractions stopping me from doing what needs to be done – and I think I’ve earned it. And I don’t think you can disagree with that statement, right, Annie?

‘Low Self Opinion’ starts up again as Harter climbs out of the ring, leaving the microphone on the mat behind him. The crowd continue to cheer Dom as he heads back up the aisle, slapping hands with some of the fans as he goes.

Kris Cruise: There we have it, Dom Harter issuing a challenge to our Mid-Atlantic Legacy champion!

Stephy Auger: She doesn’t have to accept that, Cruise, and you know it. That’s just Dom trying to use his sway to try and get what he wants, but Annie Zellor can stop him from achieving that Grand Slam, and you know it.

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

John Blade vs. LJ Summers

With the fans in the arena awaiting the next bit of action live from FGA, it doesn't take long until the lights darken, and the local fans are left in darkness for some moments. A really familiar guitar riff kicks in on the PA system, and the riff keeps going, soon joined by a low humdrum of voices all trying to hum to the beat. The humdrum gets louder, the riff kicking up another notch or two as well, until about thirty seconds the drums kick in as well.

THUNDER!

THUNDER!

This continues for a few more moments, the beat of 'Thunderstruck' by ACDC echoing throughout the arena, until the gravelly voice of Brian Johnson kicks in. The fans keep watching closely, waiting to see who will be arriving. A heavier drum beat kicks in, and then the noise dies down slightly and Johnson's voice manages to speak out again.

YOU'VE BEEN....

Theres a moments pause, during which the drums kick into high gear and the bass hits. A loud crackling thunder is heard throughout the arena as well, as Johnson's voice screams out.

THUNDER STRUCK!

A big burst of stage flows over the stage, slowly thickening even as Thunderstruck keeps playing. After another 30 seconds or so, with the smoke still swirling around the stage, some more Thunder can be heard crackling throughout the arena, and through the smoke, as the music hits high gear walks LJ Summers. LJ slowly turns to hold his back to the crowd, arms spread wide and showing off his flag, and then slowly lowering his hand to point to the back where Skyla LaLo steps out to follow him!

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, now residing out of Richmond, Virginia1 Weighing in at 285 pounds! He is “The ANZAC Warrior”, L! J! SUUUUUUUMMEEEERRRRRRS!!!

As he reaches the ring Summers stops at the ring steps, allowing Skyla to strip off his cape and then he climbs up and into the ring, ready for battle.

Kris Cruise: LJ Summers looks to exact some revenge on Big John Match here tonight!

Stephy Auger: Everything was great up until a few weeks ago, wasn’t it? LJ Summers was riding a three match winning streak. Word around town was that he was quickly rising up the ranks and was just a win or two away from a Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship! But then Big John Match himself, John Blade, came on the scene. His distraction led to Tijerina pinning Summers. Then at Final Frontier, Blade beat Summers in the middle of the ring. Summers is out for revenge tonight. But will he get it?

“My Time is Now” hits the speakers as John Blade makes his way out to the stage. He heads over and talks to the cameraman as he bounces around a little. He then turns and acknowledges the red hot New Zealand crowd, who are chanting “Big John Match” to the tune of his entrance music…

Crowd: BIG JOOOOOHN MAAAAAAATCH!!! BIG JOOOOOOHN MAAAAAAAAAATCH!!! BIG JOOOOOHN MAAAAAAAAATCH!!! BIG JOOOOOHN MAAAAAAAATCH!!!

Kris Cruise: Even all the way down here in New Zealand, they love John Blade!

Blade holds up his “NEVER GIVE UP!” logo flag before tossing it to the fans. Blade turns and salutes the fans before running down towards the ring.

J.A. Aldridge: His opponent, from Boston, Massachusetts! Weighing in at 251 pounds! He is “BIG JOHN MATCH”, JOOOOOOOOOOHN BLAAAAAAAAAADE!!!

Blade slides into the ring and begins running from rope to rope before throwing up a hand gesture to the crowd. Blade takes off his baseball cap and tosses it to one section of the crowd before removing his shirt and tossing it over into another section of the crowd. He then removes his chain from around his neck and hands it over to the ref.

Kris Cruise: John Blade had one heck of a 2016 and ended it right with a win on Pay Per View here in FGA. Can he continue his momentum into 2017?

The bell sounds as Summers immediately gets up in Blade’s face. The two have a tense staredown until Blade quickly scoops Summers up across his shoulders, causing the crowd to gasp. Blade then takes Summers and throws him down with authority with the Razor Blade! He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd cheers as “My Time is Now” hits the speakers.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, JOHN BLADE!

The crowd continue to cheer while Blade gets his arm raised. He then looks over towards a downed Summers before waving his hand in front of his face.

Stephy Auger: I… I don’t believe what I just saw…

Kris Cruise: John Blade has just beaten LJ Summers again! This time, in less than 20 seconds! With the roll that John Blade is on, is there anyone that can stop this man?

Stephy Auger: I don’t know what has gotten into LJ Summers. But in a matter of weeks, any and all momentum that he had has been derailed by John Blade. With that being said, I’m not sold on Blade. Not one bit! Put him in the ring against anyone not named LJ Summers and they’ll end this farce. Watch!

[FGA Office]

We cut to the backstage area where we see Sadie San Francisco making her way down the corridor, already in wrestling gear, tossing a bottle of water idly from hand to hand. She stops in front of a locker-room which reads Evan Envi, earning a deep chorus of boos from the audience. Sadie pushes it open, taking a sip from her water bottle. We follow her inside… though Sadie freezes mid-sip.

Sadie San Franciso ...what are you doing in here?

Someone is slumped over in the locker putting some things away. When they hear the voice they stand up and turn around revealing Brian Stryker of all people. He looks around confused at the question almost like being asked that was not what he was expecting.

Brian Stryker: Putting my stuff in the locker…

He points at his bag, still a bit confused. Sadie also looks at his bag… and then slowly back at Stryker, eyes narrowing toward him.

Sadie San Francisco: I mean. Did you even attempt to look at the name on the door?

Brian Stryker: This is where they told me to go….Said it wasn’t being used anymore.

Sadie takes a deep breath, clearly frustrated.

Sadie San Francisco: Jesus. It’s not like he’s dead.

She rolls her eyes, hands on her hips for a moment before gesturing toward his bag.

Sadie San Francisco: But it’s being used and I’m not… actually sure why you’re still here. So if you could calmly exit so I can Lysol behind wherever you’ve been breathing, that’d be great.

Brian Stryker: But it’s my locker now. See?

Stryker grabs a small nameplate and holds it up.

Brian Stryker: First day on the job and all here in FGA. So I hope you’re not the welcoming committee. Cause that….that would just suck.

Sadie reaches her hand out toward the nameplate… and calmly flicks it away before angling her gaze up toward Stryker.

Sadie San Francisco: I know you think you’re funny. But I don’t think you’re funny.

Stryker looked at his nametag on the ground and shot a glare at Sadie.

Brian Stryker: Well you’re not the first to say that. But if I had a dollar for how little I cared ‘bout the opinions of people who don’t like me, well, I wouldn’t have to work another day in my life and could own my own private island somewhere.

Stryker grins as he turns his back to Sadie, going about his business like she was not there. He whistles as he picks his nametag up, sliding the tag reading Evan Envi out and sliding his own tag in. Sadie looks at Stryker from behind and her eyes drift toward the sole steel chair which sits behind his bag-- between her and Stryker. The audience groans as they see what Sadie sees…

...Sadie takes a step forward, moving her hand onto the steel chair, sliding it gently toward her before addressing Stryker.

Sadie San Francisco: Fine.

And with that, Sadie lets go of the chair, allowing it to drop back into place. She pivots, making her way out of the locker-room without another word or look toward Brian Stryker. Stryker looks behind him as he grins. Our scene cuts away.

[FGA Office]

As the crowd inside the Horncastle Arena prepare for the show to go to its next break, their thoughts of grabbing a beer and/or hot dog are interrupted by John Bonham begging the crowd’s attention with the intro for “When the Levee Breaks” that indicates that the advertisements were true, and that Johnny Karma will be making an appearance this evening.

Kris Cruise: Here’s the man that sent Johnny Cannon packing from FGA, Johnny Karma!

Stephy Auger: You say that like it’s a good thing!

As the song reaches the first crescendo of many, Karma walks out at the top of the ramp wearing his street clothes with Cherry Baum stood beside him, and after greeting the crowd the duo make their way towards the ring, and it’s clear that Karma has regained some of the spring in his step that had been missing for much of 2016

As the pair reach ringside, they briefly exchange a couple of words before Cherry makes towards JA Aldridge’s ringside cubby hole to ask for a couple of ring mics while, at the same time, Karma climbs the ring steps and gets into the ring and, with Cherry climbing onto the ring apron, he holds the ropes open so she can get inside the ring

Cherry Baum: Good evening to the ladies and gentlemen of New Zealand and to each and every person watching this show, wherever they may be and whatever time it is, because this jetlag is killing me - but now it’s time to introduce you to the man who is setting foot on this side of the equator for the first time in his life, the man who sent the New Kings packing at Final Frontier, the man they call JOHNNY KARMA!

As Cherry takes a step to the side, Karma walks forward and removes his sunglasses, taking a moment to put them in his shirt pocket, and graciously bows to the crowd

Johnny Karma: If you told me this time last year that I’d be headed to New Zealand to perform in front of a crowd who not only paid to see the show, but actually knew the people on the show were, I wouldn’t have believed you - after all, back when FWA was a DVD-only company it would’ve taken a couple of months and a crippling shipping fee to get the DVDs here. So to see the company improve in such a short space of time is impressive to say the least.

Rather than continue, Karma pauses for a moment, before he changes the subject slightly

Johnny Karma: Of course, if you told me a year ago that 2016 was going to be 365 days of being kicked in the beytsim with a steel-toed boot I also wouldn’t have believed you, but we all know how that worked out for each and every one of us. For some it was losing someone who made a huge mark on their life, be it David Bowie or Prince or Muhammed Ali or...I could stand here all day and reel off a list of names, honestly. For others it was feeling like the world was slowly but surely turning into a planet that decided they wanted to LARP Lord of the Rings but everyone who showed up wanted to be Mordor. But if you look at the smaller, more personal stuff, even that was a struggle, as I lost someone close to me, and at a time I needed support all I got was sneering comments from people who had spent months beating me down because they thought it was funny. And I have to say, I’m glad to see the back of it all - I’m glad to see the back of a year that gave people a reason to be miserable or an excuse to act like an absolute kaker, I’m glad to see the New Kings are gone from my company, and at the risk of being “that guy” everyone has on their social media contact list, I am glad to have a fresh slate because I got through everything that was thrown at me last year, but no matter what, I am still here.

Karma’s words seem to trigger a song. “One More Soul to the Call” starts to play, which only prompts jeers to ring out all over the arena. It does not deter the woman coming out. Izzy Anders walks her way down to the ring, her head tilted in confusion. She entered the ring methodically, keeping her eyes trained on Karma the whole while. She motioned for a microphone. When she got it, she walked around, bringing the microphone to her lips.

Izzy Anders: Karma, the man of the hour. The man who has actually turned over a new leaf. You’re right. 2016 was pretty harsh to you there, buddy.

Izzy pats on Karma’s shoulder before stepping in front of him.

Izzy Anders: I didn’t get to say this to you, because I’m not the type to do it on social media or whatever. But I’m sorry for what happened to your grandfather. You’re a strong man for coming back and doing what you had to, despite all that. No one here in FGA can ever doubt that you’re not one of the most gutsy and determined people here.

Izzy pauses, to the slight cheer of the crowd.

Izzy Anders: With that, we go to the true business of this. You beat the New Kings, saving yourself and all of FGA from their “tyranny”. How about that, Karma? You did everything that you needed to do, but that little action made me notice one thing.

She points at him, narrowing her eyes.

Izzy Anders: You’re going to get in my way, huh? You know what I am back here to do. I don’t need to say anything more, but I need to ask you this, as someone who respects you.

Izzy gains a small grin, radiating a condescending air.

Izzy Anders: I’m asking you this, because I don’t want anyone here to call me “ruthless” for what I have originally planned to do.

Upon hearing what Izzy has to say, Cherry places a hand on Karma’s arm and says something to him which clearly strikes a chord, but is inaudible to the audience. After taking on board whatever it was that Cherry said to him, Karma looks directly towards Izzy and raises the mic to his lips...

Johnny Karma: You seem to have mistaken me for someone who doesn’t know how these things work. I remember a year ago when Chandler Scott had the title in his hand to back him up when he was running this place as his own private members-only cocktail lounge, but when he lost the belt he was gone - and that’s when Johnny Cannon and friends stepped in because they saw the power vacuum and jumped into it feet first. It happened when The Murder lost their grip on the company, it happened when Chris Q lost his grip on his meds, and it happened when Jimmy Page lost his grip on the title.

Taking a few steps to the side, drawing Izzy’s attention - all while leaving Cherry out of Izzy’s line of sight - Karma leans on the nearest set of ring ropes as he continues to look in Izzy’s direction

Johnny Karma: The one thing that I’ve never been prepared for is just how little time there is between the fall and the next upstart gonif with a head filled with ideas who wants to take advantage of that brief moment of calm so they can start a hurricane of their own - and it doesn’t take a genius to work out that’s the sort of “plans” you’re dropping some not-so-subtle hints about over there.

After saying this, Karma takes a couple of steps towards Izzy

Johnny Karma: Is there anything I missed?

Izzy smiles, nodding her head.

Izzy Anders: Except that I don’t care about the hurricanes or the calmness. No, I don’t care about any of it. Now, I’m also not out here too much to talk. Or fight.

She looks at Karma for a moment, her eyes staring him down intently.

Izzy Anders: No, I’m here to start something. I just needed to inform you that you’re next. I beat Noelle, another one of those heroes and fan favorites that Cordy spoke up. I’m breaking down the wall one person at a time. But for you, Karma, for you...I can’t just beat you. I just need you to open your mind...just a little. And they say the best way to start the process is with a dose of shock.

Right as she concludes her statement and in a split second, Izzy forces forward. Karma goes on guard for a moment, but the crowd’s sharp reaction brings him back from his defensive state. He looks over to see Izzy looming over Cherry, who was on the ground, holding her face. Izzy twirls the microphone in her hand, lolling her tongue in her cheek. Izzy and Karma share a moment. A dead, but proud look lingers in Izzy’s eyes, before she excuses herself out of the ring. She holds the microphone close to her mouth, a trace of blood lingering on it. Perhaps from Cherry’s busted lip.

Izzy Anders: This isn’t for power or control. This is for destruction, baby.

There’s a momentary pause as Karma can’t quite work out his priority, as one part of him wishes to leap out of the ring and return the favour, yet the other is concerned with Cherry’s wellbeing.

Kris Cruise: Izzy Anders just decked Cherry Baum! What in the hell has gotten into her!? Cherry didn’t do anything to her! She’s never done anything to anyone!

Stephy Auger: Oh please, it’s not the first time Cherry Baum has gotten a little too close to the action.

Having deliberated about his choice, all the while with Izzy watching on with an impassive look in her eyes, Karma tends to Cherry - yet the entire time he cannot tear his eyes away from Izzy, glaring in her direction.

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

Sadie San Francisco vs. Ian Cross

The music begins to play as the lights in the venue go out the lights near the curtain begin to flash blue white and red as he blasts through the curtain looking out over the crowd. He waits for a few moments before beginning to make his way to the ring he holds out his hands as the fans slap them.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Orlando, Florida by way of London, England! Weighing in at 209 pounds. He is “The Wrestling Machine”, IIIIIIAAAAAN CROOOOSS!!!

He jumps up on the apron stepping through he walks over to a corner crouching down he glares at the entrance way as he puts in his mouth guard.

Kris Cruise: Ian Cross was unsuccessful in his FGA debut two weeks ago during the Fatal 4-Way. Let’s see if he’s able to get that first win now that he only had to deal with one opponent instead of two.

The lights in the arena fade to a rose color as the familiar sound of smooth jazz echoes throughout the building. “Young Nation” hits the PA system and boos resonate among the audience. Sadie San Francisco steps out onto the stage, a cold expression hidden behind heavily-tinted aviators. She walks down the ramp, not paying much attention to the jeers or catcalls on either side of her. She pauses in front of the ring, glancing up at it before calmly walking around toward the side which the hard-camera faces.

J.A. Aldridge: And his opponent, from “The West Side.” Weighing in at 128 pounds! She is “The Pope”, SAAAAADIIEEEEE SAAAAAAAN FRAAAAAANCIIIIISSSSCOOOOOO!!!

Sadie places a hand on the bottom rope before turning, looking over her shoulder toward the audience. With one finger, she lowers her sunglasses for just a moment to glimpse out at the audience before pushing them back into place and swiftly pulling herself into the ring beneath the bottom rope and right back up to her feet. Sadie calmly removes her sunglasses, handing them off to the referee, slowly walking the ropes as her music begins to fade out.

Kris Cruise: “The Pope” Sadie San Francisco, Evan Envi’s #2, will be making her FGA in-ring debut tonight. But “The Chief” will not be at her side. In fact, we haven’t heard a peep out on Envi since his loss to Molly Reid in that brutal No DQ Match from Final Frontier.

Stephy Auger: And what a shame it’s been that Envi hasn’t been able to grace us with his presence. I hope our Chief is having a speedy recovery, wherever he is.

The bell sounds as both grapplers circle the ring before locking up. After jockeying for position, San Francisco places Cross is a side headlock. But Cross is quick to slip out and reverse into a hammerlock. San Francisco then leans forward before reversing into a hammock of her own. Cross then feints reaching back before quickly leaning forward, grabbing San Francisco by the leg and yanking it out from under her. While still keeping a hold of the leg, Cross turns around and goes to set up for a figure four. But San Francisco uses her free leg to shove him down to the canvas. After both grapplers return to their feet, San Francisco delivers an arm wrench. After Cross refuses to quit, San Francisco delivers another arm wrench. Cross then rolls forward, leans back, kips up and reverses into an arm wrench of his own. He then moves San Francisco into the ropes before shoving her into the far ropes. When San Francisco returns, Cross goes for a back elbow. But San Francisco ducks and runs into the ropes. When she returns, Cross throws her down with an arm drag. San Francisco returns to her feet. But she’s quickly returned to the mat with another arm drag. Cross then quickly transitions into an arm bar.

Kris Cruise: Cross getting the better of Sadie thus far in the early portion of this match.

Stephy Auger: But she’s not getting frustrated like most people would when they’re getting outmatched.


The ref gets down and asks San Francisco if she wants to give up. But she refuses. After battling back to her feet, San Francisco is able to escape by bringing Cross down with a headscissors. But after both grapplers scramble back to a vertical base, Cross throws her down with a side headlock takeover. The ref drops down and asks San Francisco if she wants to give up. But she refuses.

After slowly reaching up and pulling back on Cross’ hair, San Francisco quickly reverses into a headscissors. The ref then asks Cross if he wants to give up. When Cross refuses, San Francisco lifts one of her legs up before driving it down hard across Cross’ throat. She then locks the headscissors back on. The ref checks in on Cross and asks if he wants to give up. But again, Cross refuses. So San Francisco lifts her leg up and drive sit down across Cross’ throat again. She then locks the headscissors back on. Cross reaches up and tries to pry San Francisco’s legs from around his neck. But it’s to no avail. The ref asks him once again if he wants to give up. But again, Cross refuses. He then slowly turns over onto his knees. Cross reaches over and begins to press down on San Francisco’s thighs. He then pops up to his feet before connecting with a quick dropkick to the face. He scurries back over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
San Francisco kicks out.

Cross quickly sits up San Francisco and applies a rear chinlock.

Kris Cruise: Again, Cross continues to keep Sadie grounded. She’s yet to really get going in this contest. But again, she remains calm.

The ref asks her if Sadie wants to give up. But San Francisco refuses. She slowly turns over onto her knees before battling back to a vertical base. From there, she elbows Cross four times in the midsection, breaking the hold. Once she’s free, she runs into the ropes. But as soon as San Francisco comes back, the crowd cheers when Cross knocks her down with a jumping knee strike. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
San Francisco gets her shoulder up.

Cross quickly sits her up and applies another rear chinlock.

Kris Cruise: Cross back to yet another submission attempt.

When the ref asks Sadie if she wants to give up, she refuses. She then turns over on her knees before geting back to her feet. She then nails Cross with four forearms strikes to the midsection. Once the hold is broken, San Francisco runs back into the ropes. When she returns, Cross goes for another jumping knee strike. But San Francisco is able to slide underneath him. When Cross turns around, he’s met with a series of knife edge chops to the chest. The chops continue to move him back until San Francisco blasts him with a chop to the throat. While Cross is doubled over, San Francisco leaps up and drives him down with a fameasser. She pushes Cross over and makes the cover.

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

After Cross turns over and gets on all fours, San Francisco delivers a hard stomp to the right hand, followed by a stomp to the left hand. She then sizes Cross up before delivering a front dropkick to the side of the head, knocking him over. San Francisco gets back to her feet and continues to stomp Cross over towards the ropes. After taking Cross and placing him throat-first across the bottom rope, San Francisco chokes him as she stands on the back of his neck. The ref quickly gives her until the count of five to break it up.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

San Francisco steps off of Cross… and then repeatedly stomps away on the back of his neck. She quickly reaches down, brings Cross back to his feet and places him in a front facelock. From there, she delivers sharp elbows to the back of the neck. The last of which sends Cross staggering over towards the ropes. After turning Cross around, San Francisco blasts him in the face with a knife edge chop. She then takes Cross and whips him into the opposite corner. San Francisco takes off across the ring and into the corner. But Cross knocks her back with a back elbow to the face. While San Francisco staggers back, Cross turns and goes for a springboard moonsault. But before he can flip off, San Francisco dives forward and yanks down the top rope, causing Cross to slip down and wind up crotched on the top turnbuckle. The crowd boos.

Kris Cruise: Cross looked to go for something off the top. But Sadie was just a step too fast for him.

Stephy Auger: That’s why they call it high risk, Cruise.

San Francisco goes over, grabs Cross by the hair and pulls him down into the Tree of Woe position. From there, the crowd continues to boo when San Francisco delivers several stomps to the jaw until Cross flips over and lands on the canvas. She then slowly picks up Cross from off the canvas… only to quickly drop him with a jawbreaker. She makes the cover.

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

San Francisco sits up Cross and applies a rear chinlock.

Kris Cruise: Now Sadie’s giving Cross a taste of his own medicine with the chinlock.

When Cross refuses to quit, San Francisco stands up and delivers a downward sharp elbow to the back of the neck. She applies the rear chinlock.

Kris Cruise: After all those stomps to the jaw, along with the jawbreaker, you’ve got to wonder how much longer Cross can hold on for.

The ref asks Cross if he wants to give up. But again, Cross refuses. He then slowly begins to turn over onto his knees. But San Francisco is able to step over him and transition into a Camel Clutch.

Kris Cruise: Good transition there by Sadie San Francisco.

Stephy Auger: Cross wants to keep this match grounded? She can do the same and do it even better, cruise.

The ref asks Cross if he wants to give up. When Cross refuses, the crowd begins to boo when San Francisco begins to deliver clubbing strikes across the face using her left arm.

Kris Cruise: The Pope is just clobbering him with those sweeping strikes across the face.

San Francisco reaches down, grabs Cross by the hair and slowly peels him up off the canvas. Out of desperation, Cross swats her hands away from him before delivering a shoot kick combination of rights and lefts to both legs before knocking her down with a jumping back kick to the face. The crowd cheers.

Kris Cruise: Cross momentarily stops Sadie’s momentum after those flurry of kicks. But can he build from there?

Cross takes San Francisco and goes for an irish whip. But she reverses, sending him into the ropes. When Cross returns, San Francisco sets up for a back body drop. But Cross stops, hooks her arms and throws her down with a sitout butterfly powerbomb.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
San Francisco gets her shoulder up.

Cross picks up San Francisco and whips her into the ropes. When she returns, Cross scoops her up across his shoulders for a Death Valley Driver. But San Francisco is able to slip down from behind. She then shoves Cross into the ropes. Before he can even bounce back, she lunges forward with a running high knee. But Cross ducks and catches her across his shoulders for a Death Valley Driver.

Kris Cruise: He’s got her up for it again!

Cross makes his way towards the center of the ring and is about to deliver the move. But at the last second, San Francisco counters with repeatedly elbows to the side of the head. After she slips down from behind, she spins Cross around. But Cross uses the momentum to knock her down with a lariat. He then pulls San Francisco off the mat and shoves her against the ropes. After San Francisco bounces back, Cross knocks her down with a superkick. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
San Francisco gets her shoulder up.

Cross picks up San Francisco and sets her up for a German Suplex. But she cracks him across the jaw with an elbow. Once the waistlock is broken, San Francisco runs into the ropes. When she returns, Cross flattens her with a bicycle kick. The crowd continues to cheer when he pulls her up, scoops her across his shoulders and finally delivers the Death Valley Driver. He makes the cover.

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

The crowd sighs, then boos when San Francisco gets her shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Cross was finally able to deliver the Death Valley Driver. But it only got two and a half.

Cross picks up San Francisco and scoops her up on his shoulders for a Samoan Driver. But again, San Francisco delivers a hard elbow to the jaw. After she slips down from behind, she shoves Cross into the ropes. When Cross returns, the crowd boos when San Francisco knocks him down with Palo Alto (running corkscrew roundhouse knee strike).

Stephy Auger: Spinning knee right to the face, Cruise.


San Francisco picks up Cross and whips him into the ropes. When Cross returns, the crowd boos when she knocks him down with a chop block to the front of the knee. She then quickly head over and locks on a Cross Legged STF.
Stephy Auger: Our Lady of Sorrows!

Kris Cruise: The Pope has got the submission applied! Can cross hang on!?

The ref asks Cross if he wants to give up. He tries to fight it off. But as San Francisco pulls back on the chin, he taps. The ref then calls for the bell.

The crowd boos as “Young Nation” hits the speakers.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, SADIE SAN FRANCISCO!

The crowd continue to boo as San Francisco gets her arm raised.

Kris Cruise: Sadie San Francisco picks up the win here in FGA debut. Both her and Cross went hold for hold for most of the match. But things really began to pick up towards the end. It looked like Cross was second away from getting the monkey off his back and getting that big first win. But Sadie snatched it right from him when she locked on Our Lady of Sorrows! Still to come, it’s Champion vs. Champion as Annie Zellor, the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion, takes on the only FGA World Champion, Cordy Stevenson, in our main event! But coming up next, we’ve got Savannah Taylor taking on Julian Tijerina!

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

“The Game” by Motorhead hits, sending the capacity crowd into an absolute frenzy. Within moments, former FGA World Tag Team Champion Ricky Valero emerges amidst the pink and blue strobes with that trademark smirk on his face. He basks in the excitement for what seems like a full minute, with his arms outstretched and his head tilted back at the the top of the entranceway. Finally, clad in an unbuttoned yet perfectly tailored Armani suit and black Vans sneakers, Ricky makes his way toward the ring, never failing to high five an outstretched hand along the way.

He scales up the steel steps and slips into the ring, making a beeline for a FGA crew member awaiting him with a microphone in hand. He takes his spot in the center of the ring as the music dies down and smiles wide as the fans chant...

HELLO RICKY!

*clap* clap* clap*

HELLO RICKY!

*clap* clap* clap*

HELLO RICKY!

He chuckles as he brings the microphone to his lips in a FGA ring for the first time in months.

Ricky Valero: Hello to all of you too!

The fans roar once more.

Ricky Valero: I guess that answers my first question. For what it’s worth, I missed you guys too. I missed this feeling. Standing here in this ring, basking in the energy you all give me just by chanting my name. Maybe I have a bit of a problem with my ego, but there’s no greater feeling than that in this life!

Ricky, with a sly grin, can’t help but just shrug his shoulders.

Ricky Valero: It’s been too long, FGA. It’s been too long since I step foot in this ring, but make no mistake about it now...I’M BACK!

Again Ricky pauses to bask in the showering applause.

Ricky Valero: But why? Why am I back here in FGA? What more do I have to prove this time around? And hey...where’s Luke?

He snickers.

Ricky Valero: The answer to the former is simple...I’m back because I have unfinished business. I’m back because I still have plenty to prove in a FGA ring. Last go around, sure, Luke and myself, we surprised when we proved the detractors wrong, coexisted well enough to win the Joker’s Wild Tag Tournament and eventually snatch up the FGA World Tag Team Championships. Holding onto that gold was rejuvenating..it was reinvigorating. I think both of us really needed that run, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to make it happen with Luke while it lasted. But a World Tag Title run wasn’t all I came here for. I made that clear from the start. I made it clear with my every word. Legacies are solidified by the success one has inside a FGA ring. And while a tag title run does plenty to pad my resume, it’s the World Championship I desire most around my waist.

The fans pop once more.

Ricky Valero: I’m back to once again place myself as one of the elite wrestling talents of the world. To embrace every challenge FGA has to offer me in exchange for a run as the supreme champion of this company. To establish myself, cement myself as the superb, unparalleled superstar I have always said I am. The only way to do that...is without Luke Jackson by my side.

That statement brings out some disappointed boos from the crowd.

Ricky Valero: I know, I know. I love Luke, too. Somehow, someway, that dude has become one of my best friends. But today, we’re on two very different paths, and my path requires me to go out on this trek once more alone. This time, this climb up the ladder will be done all on my own.

He pauses for a moment.

RICKY VALERO: So bring on Cordy Stevenson, Chandler Scott, Salem Cartier, Molly Reid..whoever I have to go through to get my hands on the FGA World Championship and claim it as my own. Because this time, there will be no messing around. There will be no dilly-dallying. I will not let any of you fans down, I promise you that! I’m here in FGA for one purpose and one purpose only and NOTHING is going to stand in my way of seeing this through. FGA, you’re looking at your future World Champion...

IT’S GAME TIME BABY!

With one more smirk, Ricky drops the mic and makes his way to exit the ring as we fade.

[FGA Office]

Noelle Smith: Maybe you were expecting something else.

Noelle’s voice, usually vibrant and confident carries an aura of narrowed focus as she steps into the range of a camera backstage. She’s ready for her match, dressed in her ring gear with the BRUTALapparel logo across the back of her glittering and spangled purple jacket.

Noelle Smith:Hey you New Zealand fans that came out to see us tonight. I know you’ve had a chance to enjoy seeing some of your favorites first hand, and that’s an experience you guys don’t get very often. So at least from my end I’m going to try to give you all exactly what you paid for.

She nods, her hands going to her hips.

Noelle Smith: I’m sure that there were some that thought I would tuck my tail and run after Izzy won. I’m sure Izzy hopes that I’m done clashing with her, and after all we had a pretty public talk about it on Twitter.

Her hands drop from her hips and she spreads her fingers out.

Noelle Smith: Things are changing, myself included. But what doesn’t change is that I am here and I am going nowhere but up. I’ve got no choice, and you fans deserve every bit of effort I can produce.

She huffs a breath then puts on a brighter, more familiar smile.

Noelle Smith: So here we go.

She nods and then walks away from the camera, heading towards the curtains to wait for her match.

[FGA Office]

Savannah Taylor vs. Julian Tijerina

The lights go out. A few seconds later, Maria comes out with a microphone in hand, bathed in a lone spotlight her beauty deserves. She introduces Julian Tijerrrrrrrina! "Senbonzakura" (violin cover) by Lindsey Stirling plays, the lights go back on, and Julian comes out, bathed in purple and pink spotlight and holding a purple rose, which he smells. He pivots slowly for the benefit of the crowd. Meeting on the ramp, Julian surrenders his rose to Maria before gracefully leading her to the ring, occasionally high-fiving fans along the way.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, being accompanied to the ring by Maria! Weighing in at 220 pounds! He is “The Venomous Virtuoso”, JUUUUULIIIIAAAAAN TIIIIJERRRRRIIIIIINAAAAA!!!

Julian helps Maria climb up the apron, holding her hand as she walks up the steel steps, and in turn Maria helps Julian climb into the ring, sitting on the rope to make room for him. Once inside the ring, Julian spins on his toes with both arms stretched to either side and his head towards the ceiling. He stops and slowly, almost dramatically, removes his mask and shows his own grin, a more attractive version of the mask's. In one fluid motion, Julian takes off the poncho, and ends up with both arms once again stretched to either side, one hand holding his mask while the other holding the poncho.

Surrendering the mask and the poncho to Maria, the pair kiss before Julian climbs the turnbuckle and again stretches both arms to either side before applauding the fans, randomly waving and pointing at people, blowing kisses at cute girls, and occasionally winking. Finally, he goes back down, helps Maria out of the ring by sitting on the middle rope, stretches with the ropes' help, and waits for his opponent to get in the ring with him.

Kris Cruise: Julian Tijerina was apart of the Fatal 4-Way from Final Frontier, along with Erin Gordon, Ian Cross and Blake Rogers. Many, including Julian himself, feel like Rogers stoel that victory from him.

Stephy Auger: But Rogers did no such thing! It’s just like Rogers said, if Tijerina was half the wrestler that he was, then he would’ve gotten the job done. It’s as simple as that.

Kris Cruise: Well from the sound of things, it doesn’t look like Tijerina is letting go of what happened that night.

There was silence; the lights began to fade away slowly. A soft instrumental echoes out across the audience. It starts slowly, a beautiful sound that contrasts the heaviness of the world. Like feathers, it glides among the waiting audience. The lighting fixtures produce a gentle spotlight upon the stage, offset by the occasional flash here and there. As the song continues, a woman’s words begin to come through. Her voice is tender, not raising upon a whisper.

Deceived by my eyes and all I was told I should see
Opinions not mine, the person they taught me to be
One night in the dark, a vision of someone I knew
And in the darkness I saw, a voice say, I'm you.

On the stage, a feminine figure appears. Her head lowered to everything. People cannot make out who it is. As she stands there, the flashes briefly illuminate her figure. It only gives small clues on who stands at the gate. She stands in the spotlight, her shadow cast large and proudly among the stage.

Inside me a light was turned on…

The instrumental picks up again. An electric guitar now joins the progressively exciting instrumentals of before. The singer’s voice suddenly intensifies.

Then I was alive!

In the light, it is revealed that it was Savannah Taylor. She stands at the gate, a robe of obsidian and ivory hues. The hood of it shadows her eyes, but the intensity of the final EXODUS World Champion remains clear as day. She starts off down the ramp, with a serious aura radiating from her body.

If you close your eyes your life,
A naked truth revealed
Dreams you never lived,
And scars never healed

J.A. Aldridge: And his opponent, from Las Vegas, Nevada! Weighing in at 120 pounds… SAAAAAAVAAAAANNAAAAAAH TAAAAAAAAAAYLOOOOOOR!!!

Savannah makes her way up the ring steps. She looks out towards the audience for a moment before entering the ring. From there, she heads for a turnbuckle. She stands there, taking in everything. She then lifts her up on top of it. She peers out in nothing, then takes off the hood with a flashy flourish. Her blonde locks fly up in the air. They descend, shaping her face as they famously do.

In the darkness, light will take you to the other side
You'll find me waiting there you'll see, if you just close your eyes

While she stands in her corner, she closes her eyes and takes a heavy breath. When her bright eyes open, Taylor is completely composed. There is nothing more than the heat of battle awaiting her. She takes off her robe, giving it to a stagehand. She stretches her wrists before devoting her mind to the war upon the horizon.

Kris Cruise: Savannah Taylor had big plans for 2016 here in FGA. But a lot of those plans didn’t come to fruition. She’s now vowing to make 2017 a big year for her in FGA. But that’s much easier said than done.

Stephy Auger: As usual, you’re not giving her the credit that she deserves. Yes, 2016 wasn't her year. There are a lot of setbacks.But she’s got all the tools to be a big time player here. All she has to do put everything together and I think this is the year that she does just that.

The bell sounds as both grapplers circle the ring before locking up. After jockeying for position, Taylor places Tijerina in a side headlock. But Tijerina is quick to shove Taylor off of him and into the ropes. When Taylor returns, Tijerina knocks her down with a standing shoulder block. He quickly drops down and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
Taylor kicks out.

Tijerina brings Taylor off the mat and places her in a side headlock. But Taylor is quickly to slip out and reverse into a hammerlock from behind. She then spins Tijerina around and catches him in a front facelock. Just as she’s applying more pressure, Tijerina moves her over towards the ropes. After pressing her against the ropes, the ropes gives them until the count of five to break it up.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Both grapplers make a clean break… before Taylor socks him with a right hand.

Stephy Auger: He didn’t see that coming, did he?

Kris Cruise: No, you usually don’t see cheapshots coming, Stephy.

The crowd continue to boo as Taylor quickly takes Tijerina, marches into the corner and slams him face-first into the top turnbuckle. She then turns Tijerina around and lights up his chest with knife edge chops. Taylor takes Tijerina, delivers an irish whip and follows him into the corner. But instead of crashing into the corner, Tijerina does a corner backflip over the oncoming Taylor. When Taylor turns around, the crowd cheers as Tijerina knocks her down with a dropkick. Taylor gets back to her feet. But Tijerina sends her flipping down to the canvas with a step-up enzuigiri. He then quickly hops through the ropes before connecting with a slingshot leg drop.

Kris Cruise: La Guillotina! He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Taylor kicks out.

Kris Cruise: He only got two. But just like that, Julian Tijerina can turn a match around in his favor.

Tijerina picks up Taylor and places her in a side headlock. But Taylor is able to deliver three forearms shots to the midsection before shoving him into the ropes. When Tijerina returns, Taylor leapfrogs over him. Tijerina continues to run into the ropes. When Tijerina returns, Taylor tackles him down with a Lou Thesz Press before firing off a series of right hands. She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Tijerina kicks out.

Taylor picks up Tijerina and delivers an arm wrench. But Tijerina is quickly to reach over and do the same. As he turns to deliver another arm wrench, Taylor kicks him in the midsection. She then takes Tijerina and whips him into the ropes. When Tijerina returns, Taylor grabs him, runs and goes to throw him through the ropes and to the floor. But Tijerina swings through the ropes and back inside the ring with a tiger feint. When Taylor turns around and sees Tijerina in the ring, she charges over to attack. But Tijerina dips his shoulders and dumps her over the top rope to the floor.

But Taylor safely lands on her feet. She then quickly grabs Tijerina by the ankles, yanks him down to the canvas and drags him hard to the floor. After Tijerina smacks on the floor, he gets up on all fours. Taylor is then quick to deliver a kick to the ribs, knocking Tijerina over onto his back.

Taylor rolls back inside and waits for Tijerina to get up. As he begins to stir on the outside, Taylor runs into the far ropes. When she returns, she connects with a baseball slide to the back, sending Tijerina tumbling down.

A quick cut backstage shows Blake Rogers watching on with his arms crossed.

Back in the arena, Taylor climbs up onto the apron and begins waving up Tijerina. Once Tijerina returns to his feet and turns around, Taylor goes for an Asai Moonsault. Tijerina sees it coming, so he dives back into the ring. But Taylor, somehow, is able to land on her feet! She then runs over and hops onto the apron. But she’s quickly caught by a shoulder thrust from Tijerina. He then grabs a hold of Taylor and goes for a vertical suplex back into the ring. But Taylor is able to slip down from behind. She then sets him up for a German Suplex. But Tijerina elbows her in the face. After performing a standing switch, Tijerina lifts her up for a German of his own. But he quickly lowers Taylor after getting caught with an elbow to the face. After delivering another elbow for good measure, Taylor performs a standing switch, grabs Tijerina and drives him down with a forward russian legsweep.

Stephy Auger: Blonde Ambition by Savannah Taylor! She’s going for the cover!

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

Taylor picks up Tijerina and nails him with a right hand that sends him stumbling back into the ropes. She then walks over, grabs Tijerina and whips him into the far ropes. When Tijerina returns, Taylor throws out a spinning backfist. But Tijerina ducks, heads towards the ropes and connects with a springboard roundhouse kick, garnering cheers from the crowd. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Taylor gets her shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Once again, Tijerina quickly turns things around.



Tijerina picks up Taylor and delivers a hard knife edge chop before going for an irish whip. But Taylor reverses, sending him into the ropes. When Tijerina returns, he delivers a tilt-a-whirl into a crucifix pin.

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

Taylor kicks out.

After both grapplers return to their feet, Tijerina throws Taylor down with an over-the-shoulder arm drag. Taylor gets back up, but Tijerina runs over and brings her down with a wheelbarrow arm drag. Once Taylor gets back to her feet, Tijerina runs over and delivers a tilt-a-whirl headscissors arm drag and quickly transitions over into a Fujiwara Armbar.

Kris Cruise: Tijerina with a combination of arm drags leads into him trapping Taylor with a Fujiwara Armbar!

Taylor can be heard groaning in pain as Tijerina pulls back on the arm. The ref gets down and asks if she wants to give up. When she refuses, Tijerina pulls back on the arm even more.

Stephy Auger: He’s trying to snap her arm, Cruise!

Kris Cruise: Then she better get to tapping!

Taylor grunts as she tries to fight through the pain. The ref again asks if she wants to give up. But once again, she refuses. She then begins to pull herself over towards the ropes. Just as she’s about to reach out with her free hand, Tijerina rolls over, grabs Taylor by the ankle, yanks her back towards the center of the ring and applies a standing ankle lock.

Kris Cruise: Taylor thought she was almost in the clear! But Tijerina was quick to drag her back to the center of the ring and places her in another submission!

Stephy Auger: Oh no...

Taylor groans as Tijerina begins cranking away on the ankle. The ref drops down and asks Taylor if she wants to give up. But she refuses. After pushing herself up onto her hands, she rolls forward, sending Tijerina staggering through the ropes and to the floor.

Stephy Auger: She breaks the submission, cruise!

As Tijerina climbs back up onto the apron, Taylor runs over to attack. But she’s quickly doubled over by a shoulder thrust through the ropes. Tijerina quickly follows up with a sunset flip.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Taylor kicks out.

After both grapplers return to their feet, Taylor throws out another spinning backfist. But Tijerina ducks and counters with a schoolboy suplex. He makes the cover.

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

Taylor gets her shoulder up.

Tijerina picks up Taylor and whips her into the corner. He then charges into the corner. But Taylor nails him with a back elbow. After stumbling back, Tijerina runs back into the corner. This time, Taylor nails him with a boot to the face. After stumbling back, Tijerina shakes out the cobwebs before running back towards the corner. But Taylor steps out and strikes him down with a spinning backfist, garnering boos from the crowd.

Kris Cruise: Tijerina just got swatted down with the Desert Rose! Could this be it right here?


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

The crowd cheers when Tijerina gets his shoulder up.

Taylor heads into the corner and hoists herself up onto the middle ropes. After Tijerina slowly turns over on all fours, Taylor jumps off and drives Tijerina down with a curbstomp. She then picks up Tijerina, brings him back towards the center of the ring and plants him with a DDT. She turns over and makes the cover.

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

The crowd gasps, then cheers when Tijerina gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Tijerina got his shoulder up in time!

Stephy Auger: But he was a little slower than time! A couple of more shots to the head and it could be a short night for Loverboy over there.

Taylor picks up Tijerina, delivers an irish whip, follows him into the corner and connects with a yakuza kick. She then brings a groggy Tijerina from out of the corner and goes for a brainbuster, but Tijerina blocks it. She then tries to muscle him up for a brainbuster. But again, Tijerina blocks it. Tijerina then lifts Taylor up and throws her down with a cross-legged fisherman buster. He makes the cover.

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

The crowd sighs, then boos when Taylor gets her shoulder up.

Tijerina picks up Taylor and goes for an irish whip. But Taylor reverses, sending him into the ropes. When Tijerina returns, Taylor knocks him down with a running hip strike. After hitting a standing moonsault, Taylor steps out onto the apron and scales to the top turnbuckle. She then leaps off and goes for a Frog Splash. But the crowd cheers when Tijerina blocks.

Kris Cruise: He got his knees up!

Stephy Auger: Gah!

After bouncing off of Tijerina’s knees, Taylor turns over and curls up in pain. As she slowly gets back to a vertical base, Tijerina runs over and delivers a tilt-a-whirl headscissors, sending Taylor through the ropes and to the floor.

Back in the ring, Tijerina runs into the far ropes. When he returns, he goes for a baseball slide into a headscissors takeover. But Taylor side steps out of the way. Once Tijerina land on his feet, he turns into a roundhouse kick. Taylor then climbs back up onto the apron before knocking him down with an Asai Moonsault.

Kris Cruise: Taylor didn’t miss this time!

Stephy Auger: The second time’s the charm, cruise!


Taylor slowly picks up Tijerina and rolls him back into the ring. She then climbs up onto the apron before scaling to the top turnbuckle. After Tijerina gets back to his feet, Taylor knocks him down with a missile dropkick to the back of the head.

Kris Cruise: Tijerina goes down after that dropkick to the back of the head! Did you see how his head snapped forward!?

Taylor picks up Tijerina, places him in a front facelock, puts one of her legs on one of his arms and then plants him with a Scissored DDT to boos from the crowd.

Stephy Auger: Siren Song! That’s gotta be it, Cruise!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd boos as “Engel” blares throughout the arena.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, SAVANNAH TAYLOR!

The crowd continues to boo as Taylor gets her arm raised.

Kris Cruise: Taylor is back to her winning ways with a win over Julian Tijerina. She kicks off this year with a W, Stephy. But can she keep the momentum rolling? Can she continue to rack up Ws and keep those losses to a minimum? Only time will tell.

Stephy Auger: Taylor wanted to position herself for a shot at the Pride Title down the line. She’s off to a good start with that win here tonight...

[FGA Office]

The show cuts backstage to where the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion, Annie Zellor, is currently standing around looking … kinda pissed, to be honest. But that might be explained away by the Boston Celtics jersey that she’s wearing – the result of a lost bet on Christmas Day! Through the sides of the jersey you can still see the bandages around her ribs – the result of her recent matches against Levi Chambers and Dom Harter.

Her title belt is slung over one shoulder, her other hand is on her jean clad hips as Annie exhales a deep breath. But her mood seems to lighten when she sees an apprehensive Spencer Burke approaching.

Spencer Burke: Annie! Can I get a word with you before the main event tonight?

Annie Zellor: Sure thing, Spence!

The champion chirps, much to the surprise of the interviewer.

Annie Zellor: Sure. Look, I realize what happened between us was, like, petty, but that was last year. ‘New year, new me’…

Annie smiles widely as Spencer even smiles himself. It’s a pleasant revelation to him, and it’s brightened his day. Now he doesn’t have to dread these interviews.

Spencer Burke: Really? Well that’s ve–

Annie Zellor: No, not really!

Annie grabs the microphone out of Spencer’s hand while piefacing him with her other hand, shoving the interviewer away and off screen as she steps towards the camera. She looks right into the lens as she begins to talk.

Annie Zellor: First Vertigo of the new year and here we are, the match that coulda been at the last Anniversary show. The match I was looking forward to, that I wanted … and instead I’m standing getting annoyed ‘cause Dom Harter wants to try and call me out…

She gesticulates wildly, throwing her arms out to either side before trying to recompose herself.

Annie Zellor: You’re never gonna stop are you, Dom? ‘Cause I remember you hounding me after I beat Molly, and you wanted the next shot. I remember you calling me out when I was getting ready to defend against Salem … and look how that turned out! And now, after all the hard work I put in at Final Frontier; after the amazing victory I pulled off in that ladder match; after I defied all the odds and overcame everything – everything Salem threw at me, and showed the world why I’m, like, the rightful Mid-Atlantic Legacy champion…

Annie paces back and forth, twirling the microphone in one hand as she keeps the other resting on top of her title belt.

Annie Zellor: As if having to wear this stupid jersey wasn’t bad enough – ‘cause this is torture to a New Yorker like me … and yeah, I’m from Staten Island no matter what you heard. But, like, on top of that, now you’re back. And ‘cause you beat me again in the Young Guns Cup you think you’ve got a good claim. ‘Cause you won the six man tag match at Final Frontier you think you deserve a shot at the Grand Slam.

Pause.

Annie Zellor: Fine. You’re never gonna stop until you get what you want anyway, so I might as well be the one to stop you this time. But that’s where you stop making demands, Dom. ‘Cause we’re gonna do this on my terms. At Grapple Kingdom we’re gonna face each other, but you’re not gonna get to pick a stipulation or nothing like that. You’re not gonna get to play these mind games with me, and throw the last coupla matches in my face. ‘Cause from now on, your ass is mine. So just watch what I’m gonna do to Cordy tonight. Watch as I beat the FGA World Champion!

Annie Zellor: ‘Cause it’s what’s coming to you at Grapple Kingdom. You all wanna claim 2017 as your year, or the year you get what you want. But I see this as the year I add some more names to my list – ‘cause I’m the giant killer ‘round here! Tonight I add Cordy to that list, next month I’ll add Dom Harter. ‘Cause if I took you to twenty-five minutes when I was in that state, imagine what I’m gonna do when I’m fit and healthy. As for you, Cordy … as you can probably tell I’m not in the best mood right now. But tonight I’m gonna give you the best match you’ve had in a long time. And I’m gonna show you why I shoulda become the World champion at the Anniversary show. You think I’m joking? Look in my eyes and tell me what you see…

With that Annie pulls a #grrface, throwing up the devil horns before walking away; she slams the microphone into Spencer’s chest before she leaves, and the interviewer just stands there with an unimpressed look on his face.

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

We go backstage to find Blake Rogers standing before us. He’s dressed in his simple ring gear already and has a black shirt with an FGA logo on the front of it on. As we find him, he’s got his arms crossed over his chest as he appears to be looking thoughtfully down at the floor. After a few silent moments of this, he heaves a heavy and audible sigh as he raises his head to look at us.

Blake Rogers: I should be on cloud nine right about now.

He shakes his head several times slowly and scowls at the camera.

Blake Rogers: But as you can see, that’s not the case. Final Frontier couldn’t have been better for me. I walked down the aisle in my own home town, in an arena that I went to as a child to watch this very sport. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever imagine that some day I’d be standing in the middle of a ring at the Times Union Center, but on Christmas Eve I got a chance to do just that. I picked up the win in front of my family and many long time friends of mine and the night was truly something special for me.

He shrugs a shoulder.

Blake Rogers: Just as important, however, is what that win was for me as it pertains to this company. Because that match and that win wasn’t just a feel good moment for me. It was a warning shot to each and every single person in that FGA locker room. Things are changing in this company and I’m proud to be part of that. I’m not some charity case like Erin Gordon, I’m not some overhyped pretty boy who can’t get the job done when it counts like Julian Tijerina and I’m not all talk like the other guy I beat on Christmas Eve, Ian Cross. When the bell rings, you won’t find someone more focused or determined than me. Of course, that brings me full circle to tonight.

At this moment, he pauses and takes a deep breath as he glares into the camera and then lets go of a sarcastic snicker.

Blake Rogers: Tonight I get to step into the ring with Noelle Smith. Now, at first I was kind of excited about this match. Because unlike my three opponents at Final Frontier, Noelle, you actually have been in this company for a while and you’ve actually got some accomplishments to your name. You’re a former Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion. So naturally, I was looking forward to this match and thinking that this would be a good match. Then, something happened. Noelle…………………….

He rolls his eyes and lowers his arms to his side for a moment before putting them on his hips and letting go of a sigh.

Blake Rogers: You opened your mouth.

He goes quiet again and shakes his head with a crooked grin forming on his face as he does so.

Blake Rogers: In that moment that you first spoke, any excitement I had about our match tonight went out the window and with it went any respect that I had for what you accomplished here in FGA. Because the sad fact of the matter is that you’re no different than the three people that I faced at Final Frontier. You’re just so blasé that it makes me sick. You talk of the contrasting nights that we had at Final Frontier and that much is true. I won my four way while you lost to Izzy. But what bothers me is that you don’t seem to be the least bit bothered by that. So what if you lost? You got to get into the ring with Izzy, duke it out and see who the better person was. Some people may find something admirable in that.

He shakes his head quickly.

Blake Rogers: But I don’t. All I find in that is the reason why your Mid-Atlantic Legacy title run happened a few years ago and why you haven’t tasted success like that since. It’s a piss poor attitude to have, especially in this business. Because whether you like it or not, wins or losses matter. Anybody who tells themselves any differently is either out of touch with what it takes to make it in this business or their just covering their asses and trying to make themselves look good to spite of their failures.

He shakes his head in a disapproving manner and then looks at the camera with a crooked smile.

Blake Rogers: That’s not some below the belt trash talk either, it’s a fact. But I’m going to make that obvious tonight when that bell rings. Because I could spend all day here talking about this, but I prefer to get out there and call you out on it in the ring. I’d much rather force your hand and show the world how people like you are just flat out pathetic. You talk big, you make yourself sound oh so admirable and great but in reality you’re not. You’re the total opposite of what a professional wrestler should be and I’ll show you and the world that tonight. Because I may not be flashy, I may not have bright colors on my back and I don’t have a slew of catchphrases to spew off but I am the most dangerous person that you’ll ever set foot in the ring with. But don’t just take my word for it. Just wait until our match. Because when that bell rings and we lock up, you’re going to know right off that bat that you’re in over your head. But then again, it sounds like it’s kind of a familiar feeling for you, huh?

He snickers and arches an eyebrow as he nods at the camera.

Blake Rogers: I’ll see you in the ring, Noelle.

With that, he walks off and we go elsewhere.

[FGA Office]

Noelle Smith vs. Blake Rogers

The venue quiets down and soon buzzes with the fans' chatter amongst themselves before there's some action on top of the entrance ramp. Blake Rogers walks out with his hands on his hips. The crowd begins to mostly boo him as he looks around at them and walks down to the ring, cracking his knuckles and rolling his wrists a bit as he does so.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Niskayuna, New York! Weighing in at 217 pounds! He is “The Minimalist”, BLAAAAAAAAKE ROOOOOOOGEEEEEERRRRS!!!

He slides into the ring and walks over to his corner, where he beckons the referee over and makes them check his pads and boots for any hidden objects.

Kris Cruise: Blake Rogers made his FGA two weeks ago at Final Frontier and walked away with a win inside the Fatal 4-Way Match.

Stephy Auger: It was Final Frontier. One of the biggest shows of the year for FGA. But Rogers didn’t falter or fold. He stood tall as he was able to defeat three other hungry up and coming competitors. Tonight he has the chance to make an even bigger statement and that’s by beating a former champion tonight in Noelle Smith.

Kris Cruise: It is a big opportunity. But even though Rogers has only been in the company for a couple of weeks, “The Minimalist” is already making enemies. Julian Tijerina is still hot after he felt Rogers stole the match from him. Then there’s Erin Gordon, who suffered a concussion after Rogers gave her a brainbuster on the apron! The hardest part of the ring!

Stephy Auger: Oh boo hoo. This is professional wrestling, not her little chicken farm or whatever the heck she does with her spare time. If she can’t handle the grueling nature of this sport, then maybe it’s best she just stay on the sidelines and not even bother coming back.

“Lose My Breath” by Destiny's Child starts to play over the PA, and the lights dim as Noelle steps from behind the curtain, a wide smile on her face as she waves to the fans before doing a few provocative dance moves as the lyrics cue up.

Can you keep up?
Baby boy, make me lose my breath
Bring the noise, make me lose my breath
Hit me hard, make me lose my (hah hah)
Can you keep up?
Baby boy, make me lose my breath
Bring the noise, make me lose my breath
Hit me hard, make me lose my breath (hah hah)

J.A. Aldridge: And his opponent, from Orlando, Florida! Weighing in at 125 pounds… NOOOOOOOEEEEELLEEEE SMIIIIIIIIITH!!!

She does an athletic somersault forward to take her half down the ramp and then rushes the ring, using her hands to push her up onto the apron as she slides under the bottom rope and pops up, giggling and blowing kisses to the fans, winking at the referee and waving to the ring announcers cheerily.

Kris Cruise: Noelle Smith was unsuccessful in her clash with Izzy Anders back at Final Frontier. But that loss didn’t dull her smile and she’s still as determined as ever.

Stephy Auger: Is that so? Maybe she should spend less time posting selfies in the gym and actually using all the equipment around her in said gym. Then maybe we’ll start seeing some real results because right now, all I see is New Year, Same Noelle.

The bell sounds as Smith and Rogers lock up. After jockeying for position, Rogers drops down, goes behind Smith and applies a waistlock from behind. Smith then reaches down, grabs Rogers by the wrists and slowly pulls his hands apart. She then quickly turns and transitions into an arm wrench. The ref asks Rogers if he wants to give up. But he refuses. He then rolls forward, leans back, kips up and reverses into an arm wrench before transitioning into a top wrist lock. The ref asks Smith if she wants to give up. But she refuses as well. Rogers then begins to use his power to press Smith down towards the canvas. But Smith is able to bridge back and use her head to stop from falling going down to the canvas. Smith then slowly begins to bridge back up. Once Smith is back to a vertical base, Rogers doubles her over with a knee to the midsection. He then quickly applies a side headlock. But Smith is able to shove Rogers off of her and into the ropes. When Rogers returns, he runs over Smith with a running shoulder block, garnering boos from the crowd. He then runs into another set of ropes as Smith gets back to her feet. When Rogers returns, Smith leapfrogs over him. When Rogers comes back, Smith leapfrogs over him again. When Rogers returns, Smith goes for a hip toss. But Rogers blocks and counters with an arm drag. Smith gets back to her feet, but Rogers throws her back down with another arm drag. After Smith gets back up and turns around, Rogers throws her down with a Japanese arm drag. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
Smith kicks out.

Rogers picks up Smith and applies a waist lock from behind. The ref asks Smith if she wants to give up. But Smith refuses. As she slowly battles back to a vertical base, Rogers lets go and delivers a quick elbow smash to the small of the back. He then quickly reapplies the waist lock. The ref again asks Smith if she wants to give up. But again, Smith refuses. So Rogers lets go and shoves Smith into the ropes. After Smith bounces off the ropes and stumbles back, Rogers nails her with another elbow smash to the back. He then locks the waist lock back on.

Kris Cruise: Rogers now really starting to target the lower back of Noelle Smith.

Stephy Auger: Rogers can wrestle circles around her. But he knows that she’s got the advantage over him when it comes to speed and agility. So why not keep her locked in his clutches? Why not try to wear her down while working over back? It’s a sound strategy from “The Minimalist”.

Smith can be seen cringing in pain as Rogers cinches in the hold. The ref asks her if she wants to give up. But again, Smith refuses. She then begins to nail Rogers with elbows to the face until the hold is broken. Once she’s free, Smith motions towards the ropes. But Rogers reaches out, grabs her by the back of the tights and yanks her back over into his clutches. Rogers then goes for a German Suplex. But Smith is able to reverse into a wheelbarrow victory roll.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Rogers kicks out.

Kris Cruise: Smith nearly stole the victory there.

Stephy Auger: Stealing a victory, something that Rogers knows nothing about.

After both grapplers scramble to get back to their feet, Smith quickly wraps him up in a Fruit Rollup (inside cradle).

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Rogers kicks out.

Kris Cruise: Another nearfall for Noelle!

After both grapplers scramble back to their feet, Rogers throws out a clothesline. But Smith ducks and runs into the ropes. When Rogers turns around, he gets knocked down by a cross bodyblock.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Rogers kicks out.

Kris Cruise: Yet another close call for Rogers.

Stephy Auger: See? This is what I mean! This is why he’s got to keep that little rodent grounded.

Smith picks up Rogers and goes for an irish whip. But Rogers reverses and sends her into the ropes. He then goes for a leapfrog, but does so too early, allowing for Smith to easily hang onto the ropes. Once Rogers lands on his feet, he charges over at Smith, who grabs the top rope and pulls down, sending Rogers tumbling down to the floor.

Back in the ring, Smith returns to her feet and heads towards the center of the ring while holding the small of her back. While Rogers begins to return to his feet on the outside, Smith makes her way towards the far ropes. When she returns, the crowd cheers when she leaps through the ropes, knocking Rogers down with a suicide dive.

Kris Cruise: Smith takes Rogers down with a dive to the outside! Rogers started off strong, but this match is all Smith right now.

As Smith goes to pick up Rogers, Rogers is quick to grab her, run forward and ram her back-first against the side of the ring. He then takes Smith and tosses her against the guardrail.

Stephy Auger: … you were saying, Cruise?

Rogers heads over and puts the boots to Smith’s back before yanking her up and rolling her back inside. He then slides back in and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Smith gets her foot on the bottom rope.

Rogers picks up Smith and applies a bearhug. After Smith refuses to quit, Rogers hoists her up and cinches in the hold.

Kris Cruise: Rogers once again targets the back of Noelle Smith.

Stephy Auger: … and it’s working. She’s helpless right now, Cruise.

The ref asks Smith if she wants to give up. But again, Smith refuses. She then moves Rogers’ head back with one hand while using the other to punch him in the face. She then nails Rogers with another punch… and another… and another. After Smith lowers her down to the canvas, she turns and runs into the ropes. When Smith returns, the crowd boos when Rogers grabs her and throws her down with a spinning side belly to belly suplex. He hooks the leg.


Stephy Auger: So much more that little comeback...


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

Smith gets her shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: She’s not out of it just yet!

Rogers sits up Smith and applies a bodyscissors. The ref asks Smith if she wants to give up. When she refuses, Rogers squeezes his legs even tighter around her waist.

Kris Cruise: Rogers once again targeting the back of Noelle Smith.

Stephy Auger: He’s really slowed this match down. This is his type of pace. This is where he likes to keep the match…

The ref continues to check in with Smith and asks her if she wants to give up. But again, Smith refuses. She then reaches back and nails him with an elbow to the face. Smith then nails him with three more elbows to the face, breaking the hold. After returning to her feet, Smith picks up Rogers and goes for an irish whip. But Rogers reverses, sending her into the ropes. When Smith returns, Roger sets up for a back body drop. But Smith counters with a sunset flip.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Rogers kicks out.

After both grapplers returns to their feet, Rogers ducks under a punch attempt, goes behind Smith and lifts her up for a belly to back suplex. But Smith rolls over his shoulder, lands on her feet and follows up with a dropkick from behind. The kick causes Rogers to stagger forward and fall through the ropes. After landing on the apron, Rogers begins to pull himself up using the ropes. Smith sees this, so she runs into the corner and delivers a triangle dropkick, knocking him off the apron and to the floor.

While Rogers picks himself up on the outside, Smith springboards to the top turnbuckle, leaps off and knocks him down with a flying crossbody to the outside, causing the crowd to explode with cheers!

Kris Cruise: What a move by Noelle Smith!

Stephy Auger: I didn’t think she had anything left in her!

Smith picks up Rogers and rolls him back inside. After rolling back in, she makes the cover.

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

Smith picks up Rogers and whips him into the ropes. When Rogers returns, he goes for a running clothesline. Smith ducks using a bridging evasion. But then quickly drops to the mat before holding the small of her back. Rogers sees this, so he goes over, pulls Smith back to her feet, lifts her up and delivers a belly to back suplex. He makes the cover.

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

Smith gets her shoulder up.

Rogers picks up Smith and whips her into the ropes. When Smith returns, Rogers throws her down with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. After Smith bounces off his knees, Rogers turns her over and makes the cover.

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

The crowd gasps, then cheers when Smith gets her shoulder up.

Stephy Auger: He was just a half a second away, Cruise.

Rogers picks up Smith, throws her down with a scoop slam and makes his way over to her legs. After holding them up, Rogers slowly turns over into a Boston Crab.

Stephy Auger: Now it’s over.

The ref asks Smith if she wants to give up. When she refuses to quit, Rogers pulls back.

Kris Cruise: We can see Smith cringing in pain. You know she wants to hold on and try to fight her way out of this.

Stephy Auger: But her back has been worked over time and time again in this match. I doubt it can hold up under this pressure for much longer...


The ref asks Smith if she wants to give up. But again, she refuses. Smith then begins to pull herself away from the center of the ring and towards the ropes.

Stephy Auger: What the heck is she doing?

Kris Cruise: She’s trying to pull herself towards the ropes!

Rogers shakes his head as Smith continues to strain and pull herself towards the ropes. She reaches out… but she’s not there.

Stephy Auger: Aaaaaaawwww, so close!

Smith continues to scratch and claw her way towards the ropes. She reaches out… and grabs the bottom rope. But Rogers won’t let go. So the ref give shim until the count of five to break the hold.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Rogers reluctantly lets go. He brings Smith back to her feet and delivers an elbow smash to the face before sending her into the far ropes. When Smith returns, Rogers swings his arm around her and locks on a sleeper hold.

Stephy Auger: Now he’s going to finally put her away!

Smith swings her arms around wildly. But she’s nowhere near the ropes. So Smith reaches back, grabs Rogers by the head with both hands and pulls down, delivering a sitout jawbreaker. While Rogers clutches his jaw, Smith returns to her feet and heads into the ropes. When she returns, Rogers throws out a clothesline. But Smith ducks. When Rogers turns around.

Kris Cruise: Pelé Kick!

While Rogers is still dazed, Smith heads into the ropes. When Smith returns, Rogers throws out a running clothesline. But Smith ducks and stops while Rogers’ momentum takes him into the ropes. When Rogers returns, Smith turns around and goes for a leapfrog. But Rogers catches her in mid air, turns and slams her down with a spinebuster.

Stephy Auger: Yep! That’s it! It’s over...

The crowd boos as he rolls across Smith as he hooks the leg.

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

The crowd explodes with cheers when Smith gets her shoulder up. Rogers looks over and holds up three fingers. But the ref holds two back at him.

Rogers picks up Smith and lifts her up for a brainbuster. But Smith knees him in the head on the way up. After Smith is lowered back to the mat, she follows up with a roundhouse kick. She then hits a step-up enzuigiri that knocks Rogers down to one knee. After Smith gets back to her feet, she knocks Rogers down with a superkick to the side of the head. She then heads out onto the apron and waits for Rogers to get into position. Once Rogers gets up, shakes out the cobwes and turns around, the crowd cheers when Smith knocks him down with a springboard missile dropkick. Smith then picks Rogers back up before delivering Swing, Set, Match (swinging neckbreaker). She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd cheers as “Lose My Breath” plays over the PA.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, NOELLE SMITH!

The crowd continues to cheer as Smith gets her arm raised. She then immediately drops to a knee and holds her back.

Kris Cruise: Noelle Smith gets the win, but not without paying a bit of a price. Noelle took a lot of damage to her back. I thought at first we were just looking at some soreness but Smith is having a really difficult time reaching a vertical base…

Stephy Auger: She’s just hamming it up for these people!

The Christchurch audience applauds for Noelle as she reaches her knees, moving a hand to the ropes, politely refusing assistance from the referee outside of the ring as he tries to assist her out to the floor.

Kris Cruise: There’s definitely some pride on display here by Noell--

“Can You Feel It?” hits the PA system and the audience erupts into a thunderous mixed reaction! Heads whip toward the entranceway.

Stephy Auger: CRUISE, COULD IT BE?!

Kris Cruise: ...I was under the impression that Evan Envi wasn’t in the country.

Stephy Auger: Get out of that room, Stryker!

Noelle freezes in place, her eyes going wide a second then narrowing slightly, obviously she’s thinking this must be a trick, right? For several moments, though the multicolored strobes dance throughout the arena, there is no movement on the ramp… until finally we see the curtains thrown aside and a familiar silhouette calmly moves toward the top of the ramp, raising the hood of his jacket as he surveys the arena. After seconds, the lights return to normal, revealing Evan Envi, dressed in street clothes.

Stephy Auger: The Chief is here after all! Children across Christchurch are weeping with joy right now! Santa doesn’t come here! The Chief does! And better late than never!

Kris Cruise: Hmm.

Evan Envi walks down the ramp, ignoring the warnings of the referee to “turn around.” He pulls his hood back to look up at Noelle for a moment while the latter sits on her knees, a hand on her back as she glares at Envi. He shoulders past the referee, walking up the steel steps and finally stepping through the ropes to a groan from the crowd.

Kris Cruise: Seriously, someone get him out of there.

The music fades as Envi stands in front of Noelle Smith. The two lock eyes for several seconds before Envi finally extends his hand, turning our loud mixed reaction into a chorus of cheers. Hearing the fans she looks right at him and then takes his hand! He helps her up, at least slightly and she says something to him that the microphones on the ringside cameras can’t catch over the roars of the fans.

Stephy Auger: The Chief never ceases to amaze me! What a gentleman! Are you seeing this?

Kris Cruise: I’m legitimately surprised. But good on Evan Envi, I suppose...

Stephy Auger: Our Chief is so compassionate, even after everything he and Noelle have been through.

As Noelle finally reaches her feet, Envi nods at the Christchurch audience who rise to theirs as well to applaud Noelle Smith. He lets go of Noelle’s hand and turns, making his way to the ropes-- though Noelle falls to a knee again. Back still turned, Envi freezes.

Stephy Auger: She’s so clumsy!

Another groan rolls throughout the audience as Envi slowly turns toward Noelle Smith again. A small smile crosses his face and Envi steps forward, extending his hand again. Despite the even-louder groans from the audience, Noelle accepts, being pulled to her feet… and Envi places his hands on her shoulders, calmly looking straight ahead into the eyes of Noelle Smith.

Kris Cruise: I'm not buy--

Swiftly, Envi slides his arms beneath Noelle’s, forcing her head downward and quickly throwing himself back to nail the Snap Double Arm DDT-- The Blues!

Kris Cruise: I knew it. Ugh. I knew it.

A chorus of boos resonates throughout the arena as Envi’s jacket falls back, revealing the stitches and bandages that adorn the back of his head and neck. Seemingly ignorant to the chorus of boos raining down on him from the audience, Envi stares down at Noelle. She groans in pain on the canvas, otherwise unmoving.

Stephy Auger: There’s a valuable lesson to be learned from this, Cruise…

Kris Cruise: What’s that?

Stephy Auger: I dunno! Ask Noelle when she wakes up! Clearly this is the result of an ex-lover’s quarrel!

Chants of ”ENVI SUCKS!” and ”YOU’RE A WANKER!” fill the arena as Envi finally reaches his feet. He stands over the face-down Noelle with a blank expression before his eyes drift toward the turnbuckles. Envi steps through the ropes and makes his way toward the turnbuckles to another audible groan from the crowd.

Kris Cruise: And now what? This needs to be stopped. He should’ve never been let into the ring.

Envi ascends to the top turnbuckle-- but to another mixed reaction, the referee slides into the ring, stopping Envi. He demands that he gets down from the ropes, completely blocking his path to Noelle. Envi looks past the referee, down toward the former Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion before he calmly descends down to the apron. Still staring, Envi drops down to the floor, glancing at the jeering audience with general indifference before looking toward Smith again. As she begins to stir, Evan finally backs away, up toward the top of the ramp to no music or fanfare from the production team.

Kris Cruise: Last time we saw Envi, we thought he’d been humbled at least by Molly Reid after that hellacious Pride Title match. We see him wearing the scars from it--

Stephy Auger: Scars from sixty-eight tacks!

Kris Cruise: --but I think he’s finally snapped here. This was completely uncalled for. He chose to attack a hurt Noelle Smith, and I guess we can use our imaginations as to why it happened here and now, but I'm not sure why it surprises me anymore. It's disgusting.

Stephy Auger: Three cheers for consistency!

We fade away as Envi finally turns, disappearing to the back.

[FGA Office]

Backstage, Dan Herrera is walking down the hallway with a couple water bottles in his hands. He walks past a few stagehands nodding his head at them before getting to Cordy’s locker room door. He knocks a few times and the door slides open. Dan peeks in and sees Cordy sitting in the room. He walks in, figuring she’s just concentrating.

Dan Herrera: Cordy?

Sensing someone entering the room, Cordy lifts her gaze to meet her tag partner as she gives him an acknowledging nod. She removes the hoodie from her head and pulls out the earbuds that were in her ears.

Cordy Stevenson:Ayeeee what’s up Mr. Tag Team of the Year winner.

She smiles as she leans back, resting against the wall a bit. Dan walks over handing her one of the water bottles he brought from the break area.

Dan Herrera: Sounds damn good doesn’t it.

Dan takes the water and opens it tilting his head back as he took a sip.

Dan Herrera: We’ve had a pretty good year haven’t we?

Cordy nods. It’s hard not to agree with that statement, yet something about her face reveals that something is bothering her.

Cordy Stevenson:We had a hell of a year, Dan. Phenomenal actually. To be gone as long as we were, to finish the year ranked number one and number two in the company respectively… to be the reigning and defending FGA Tag Team Champions…

She nods towards his belt and then motions towards hers.

Cordy Stevenson:To be the FGA World Champion… to say we had a hell of a year is an understatement Danno. Yet for some reason, I don’t feel as if they realize that. We single handedly went through every single tag team this company has had, yet I still don’t feel we get the respect we deserve.

Her eyes narrow a bit. She starts to continue on further but inhales sharply, cutting herself off. Instead she just shakes her head. Dan smirks and raises his eyebrows.

Dan Herrera: Brand names without recognition. Kind of sad to think about huh? They say respect is earned, well if that’s the case… we’ve earned it several times over. But perhaps it’s the Dan Herrera stygma sticking to you by being my partner. People don’t want to see what’s right in front of them.

Dan points over at her world title while patting his own tag title.

Dan Herrera: People like to see new champions. That’s a fact I came to realize from the fans a long time ago. Someone holds onto the top spot for a while and everyone else wants to see them fall. But what they don’t realize is that once they do, they have to decide if they like what’s in it’s place now.

Dan points and her and then to himself and back and forth again a few times.

Dan Herrera: What FGA has is a couple of top notch champions here. And the reason we’ve held these belts so long is because we fight as a team and make it look easy. Nobody ever really know what they’ve got til it’s gone. Everyone in the back, they just want what we have. Even if they want to talk about me being a weak link… or us not being a real team… or whatever the excuse of the week is… they want our titles.

Dan looks out the door of Cordy’s locker room as several wrestlers pass by.

Dan Herrera: That’s enough to turn any friend into an enemy. No matter if they refuse to say they respect us, they do.

Cordelia remains quiet for a while, taking in the words of her friend and tag team partner. It made plenty of sense, yet that didn’t necessarily quell the feeling of being overlooked.

Cordy Stevenson:They’ll have no choice but to respect us.

Her words come out rather coldly and distant. She finally gazes up, looking her tag partner in the eye.

Cordy Stevenson:We won’t leave them with any other options, and I put that on everything.

Her words are sharp, precise and definitely hold more meaning than what is at the surface.

Cordy Stevenson:I’m just sick of the disrespect to be honest.

Dan nods at her.

Dan Herrera: Don’t let my attitude towards things disguise my disgust, Cordy. I’m just as tired of it as you are. My opponent tonight, no doubt thinks that I’m just a stepping stone on her way to disrespecting all of FGA as she seems to intend.

Dan shrugs.

Dan Herrera: But if that’s the attitude she wants to take into this thing? That’s on her. Because the moment that bell rings, I get to work. And I’m not a slouch and I don’t pull punches. And that goes especially when I feel as you do now. She’s going to feel every minute of that match for the next week, there’s no other way to look at it. Now you gotta go out there and do the same thing to Annie. No friends here, and with the way she’s been acting lately… it’s probably a good idea for you to put her in her place.

Dan pauses for a moment.

Dan Herrera: Also to keep an eye over your shoulder. Just do what you do. And going forward we’ll keep doing what WE do as a tag team. It’s bound to make our point eventually…

Cordy nods

Cordy Stevenson:You’re absolutely right. Tonight we handle business as usual. You against Izzy. Me against Annie. And I’ll definitely have an eye over my shoulder. If there’s anything these last three pay per views have taught me, it’s to always keep my head on a swivel. And I especially have to do that tonight… Annie is a… sneaky one. But tonight she gets that tough love.

Cordy smirks.

Cordy Stevenson:I hope she likes it rough, cause I damn sure won’t be playing games out there tonight, and I hope that everyone takes notice of it, and gets real familiar with it.

She stops for a second, before playfully punching her tag team partner on the shoulder.

Cordy Stevenson:Maaannn I feel sorry for whoever has to go up against us next.

Dan laughs, pretending to rub his arm.

Dan Herrera: Me too. They don’t know what’s coming, even with all the warnings in the world.

Dan reaches his hand out and Cordy pounds it.

Dan Herrera: Have fun out there tonight and I’ll do the same. Catch you after the show.

Dan nods at Cordy and she nods back. Dan then makes his way over to the door pulling it back to the almost closed position it was in before he came in. He then begins walking down the hall as the scene fades to black.

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]