Vertigo (01.21.17)

[FGA Office]

We see Spencer Burke walking through the hallway with an expensive plastic cup of coffee in hand. He's humming to himself, minding his own business, when he suddenly gets surprised by something we don't see. The camera pans, Spencer raises an eyebrow in pure skepticism, and we see a grinning Julian Tijerina holding a bouquet of purple roses. Spencer furrows his eyebrows, confused at what is happening in front of him. He decides to take a step back, wary of The Venomous Virtuoso.

Julian Tijerina: Heeeeey...

Julian tries his best to placate the interviewer, putting on his best apologetic face. His charm works, as it always does, and Spencer lets his guard down. A smile streaks across the interviewer's face, mimicking that of the Spaniard. With both men no longer wary of each other, Julian hands Spencer the bouquet he's holding. Spencer accepts, confused beyond words.

Julian Tijerina: It's an apology bouquet... You know, for my actions for the past few interviews we've done...

Spencer feigns a smile. He holds the bouquet like one would hold a baby. Still at a loss for words, he simply nods his head, gesturing an agreement to whatever Julian's saying just so he can finally get out of there.

Julian Tijerina: I got word that you've been very uncomfortable every time we cross paths.

Spencer slowly, hesitantly nods. He tries to speak but Julian cuts him off.

Julian Tijerina: It's okay. No need to be afraid, my friend. I've just been having...a terrible streak here in FGA. Hasn't been half a year yet, I know, but still, my win-loss record isn't something to be proud of.

Julian turns to Spencer who awkwardly steals a sip of his coffee while trying not to drop the bouquet. Spencer, realizing it might be an inopportune moment to be selfishly sipping coffee while a professional wrestler was apologizing to him, stopped himself mid-sip, which only made things more awkward. Julian flashes him a smile, signaling that it's okay. Spencer sighs in relief and gulps down some hot coffee, only serving to scald the insides of his mouth. Julian shakes his head, a smile still on his face.

Julian Tijerina: But it's still no excuse. My failures are my failures. You have nothing to do with them, and you don't deserve to be made to feel that way.

Spencer tries to speak again but once more Julian stops him.

Julian Tijerina: So please accept my humble offering. Next time we cross paths, you as an interviewer and me as a victor, I will be friendlier and better suited to represent FGA in interviews. Would that be all right?

Spencer nods his head in agreement.

Julian Tijerina: Bueno!

Spencer starts taking another giant gulp of his coffee as Julian stupidly pats him hard on the shoulder from out of nowhere. Startled, Spencer lost control of his mouth and instinctively spits all the hot coffee in Julian's face.

Julian Tijerina: ...

Spencer Burke: ...

Spencer is horrified at what had just happened. He wants to move, get out of there, but his fear has paralyzed him. Julian, eyes closed, face covered in coffee, just stands there ominously. Spencer swallows air. He takes a handkerchief from his back pocket and offers it to The Spanish Sweetheart. Despite having his eyes closed, Julian puts up a hand, declining the offer. He wipes coffee from his eyes before opening them and addressing Spencer with a smile on his face.

Julian Tijerina: It's okay. I deserve this.

Spencer can't do anything else but stare at Julian. He just watches him, subconsciously trying his best to prepare for a swift and painful retaliation. Julian does nothing of the sort, however, choosing to simply walk away, a smile still on his face. Spencer swallows air as he is left all alone in the hallway. He keeps his eyes to where Julian's direction is and starts gulping his coffee down, still holding his bouquet like a baby.

[FGA Office]

Noelle Smith and Brian Stryker vs. Camp Envi

The beginning of Red Flag plays as the guitar intro hammers out into the arena. Brian Stryker walks out from behind the curtain, his hood up. Brian walks to the center of the stage. He gets down on one knee and runs his hand over the floor of thee stage. He rises to his feet and throws his hood back.

J.A. Aldridge: The following tag team contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania! Weighing in at 215 pounds… BRIIIIIIAAAAAAN STRYYYYYYYYKERRRRR!!!

He walks down the ramp, not taking his eyes off the ring. When he gets to the steel steps, he walks up them and climbs the turnbuckle to the top. He looks out to the crowd before holding out his arms before hopping down onto the floor.

Kris Cruise: Brian Stryker nearly had the match won for his team a week ago. But the win was stolen out from under them by the team of Blake Rogers, AMIRA and Sadie San Francisco.

Stephy Auger: Hey, it’s not their fault that Stryker and his team couldn’t keep track of who the legal man was. But hey, they’ve got their chance at revenge here tonight. They’re not going to get it, mind you. But the chance is there.

“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: His partner, from Orlando, Florida! Weighing in at 125 pounds… NOOOOOOEEEEELLE SMIIIIIIIITH!!!

Kris Cruise: Noelle Smith was also apart of that losing team in last week’s six man tag. But while she might have lost the match, she definitely came away with her head held high after taking it to Evan Envi after the show.

Stephy Auger: Oh, you mean she assaulted our Chief from behind with a kendo stick? A BEDAZZLED one, at that!? This is why I won’t have any pity for Noelle Smith. How dare she do that to Evan Envi, especially after everything he’s done for her!?

Kris Cruise: Done for her? How about everything he’s done TO her!?!? Like two weeks ago, when he jumped Noelle from behind after her match!? How about THAT!?

Stephy Auger: … I don’t remember…

Kris Cruise: Yeah, SURE you don’t!


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.

“Can You Feel It?” hits the PA system and the audience comes to their feet with a deep chorus of boos as the lights slowly dim. Turquoise-colored strobes dance throughout the arena before Sadie San Francisco finally emerges through the curtains, stretching as she walks to the top of the ramp, observing the crowd with seeming indifference, though her lips fade into a smirk as the boos grow louder-- Evan Envi walking through the curtains behind her.

J.A. Aldridge: And their opponents, making their way to the ring at a total combined weight of 331 pounds! They are the team of Sadie San Francisco and Evan Envi… CAAAAAAAAAAAAMP ENNNNNNVIIIIIIIII!!!

Envi screams back into the lively audience while Sadie keeps her gaze ahead, finally leading the way with a no-nonsense walk toward the ring. Envi jaws off at the fans at ringside as he follows behind, shooting past Sadie once they reach the bottom of the ramp to slide into the ring beneath the ropes. Envi hits the ropes on the far side of the ring, throwing the Double-V into the air with both hands while Sadie calmly climbs the turnbuckles in the background, doing the same, before casually hopping over the ropes into the ring. She meets Evan in the corner as their music fades.

… then they dart across the ring and attack Smith and Stryker in the opposite corner!

Stephy Auger: There you go, guys!

Kris Cruise: Camp Envi not wasting any time right here!

The crowd erupts with boos as Envi takes Smith, runs and tosses her over the top rope and to the floor. Back in the ring, SFS turns Stryker around and nails him with a throat punch before choking him.

Stephy Auger: Yeah, right to the throat, Sadie! We’ll still have to see his stupid face. But we won’t have to listen to his stupid voice anymore!

On the outside, Envi stalks Smith as she crawls on the floor. He then runs up from behind, jumps up and delivers a stomp to the back of the head. The crowd continues to boo as Envi continues to put the boots to Smith before picking her up and whipping her hard into the guardrail. After Smith crashes against the rail, she crumbles to the floor.

Stephy Auger: Did you hear how hard she crashed into the guardrail!?

Kris Cruise: Yeah, and I bet Envi loved seeing her crashed into that guardrail, too!

Back inside the ring, SFS takes Stryker and delivers a Downward Spiral onto the middle turnbuckle.

Stephy Auger: Bam, face-first right into the top turnbuckle! There you go, Sadie! Stay on him! That man disrespected our Chief! Teach him a lesson!

On the outside, the crowd erupts with boos when Envi picks up Smith, lifts her up and delivers a flapjack across the steel steps. Smith bounces off the steps and rolls over onto her back.

Kris Cruise: Good God, did you hear the thud from the impact!?

Stephy Auger: Yeah, and? Noelle Smith attacked our Chief last week like the savage that she is. She deserves this!

Kris Cruise: You sound about as nuts as Sadie San Francisco!

Stephy Auger: Don’t let her hear you say that too loudly, Cruise.

Back in the ring, SFS continues to put the boots to Stryker until Envi slides back in. He picks up Stryker, slams him face-first into the top turnbuckle and places him in the Tree of Woe. Once he steps out of the way, SFS makes her way back over and chokes Stryker while pulling down on the top rope. The ref gives her until the count of five to break the choke.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

SFS lets go… and delivers a stomp to the jaw. Envi then heads back to the outside and pulls on Stryker’s jaw from behind with both hands while SFS heads into the opposite corner. She then runs across the ring and connects with a baseball slide to the face, knocking Stryker down from out of the Tree of Woe. She then pulls him over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Stryker grabs the bottom rope. SFS then gets up and delivers a stomp to Stryker’s left hand.

Kris Cruise: Sadie San Francisco has been all over Stryker since the opening bell. The woman has damn near been obsessed with hurting Stryker since he “disrespected” Evan Envi!

Stephy Auger: I don’t blame her!

After Stryker rolls away from the ropes and gets on all fours, SFS stalks him before delivering another stomp to the hand. After Stryker draws his left hand close to his body, SFS goes over and delivers a stomp to the right hand.

Kris Cruise: Do you see that look in her eyes, Stephy. Does that look like someone that’s all there?

Stephy Auger: ...

SFS picks up Stryker, brings him into the Camp Envi corner and tags Envi back in. Once Envi gets in, Camp Envi unleashes a double flurry of chops while Envi “WOOOO”s. He then takes Stryker and whips him into the opposite corner. Envi runs across the ring, but Stryker knocks him back with a boot to the face. Envi then runs back to the corner. But this time, Stryker knocks him back with a back elbow to the face. After shaking off the blow, Envi runs back over towards the corner. But he gets knocked down by a springboard moonsault from Stryker. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Envi kicks out.

Kris Cruise: Great counter there by Stryker, but it only gets two.

Stryker picks up Envi and goes for an irish whip. But Envi reverses, sending Stryker into the ropes. When Stryker returns, Envi sets up for a back body drop. But Stryker stops, turns and rolls across Envi’s back as Envi stands up. When Envi turns around, Stryker delivers a series of shoot kicks to the leg before bringing Envi down to one knee after a basement dropkick. Stryker then gets back to his feet and runs into the ropes. When he comes back, the crowd cheers as he plants Envi with a spiking hurricanrana.

Kris Cruise: Envi’s head just smacked off the canvas!

After bouncing off the canvas, Envi rolls out onto the apron. As Envi slowly pulls himself up using the ropes, the crowd cheers as Stryker runs right next to the ropes, leaps up with the help of the top rope and sends Envi flying off the apron with a running hurricanrana.

Kris Cruise: What a move by Brian Stryker!

Stephy Auger: Eh, it was okay...

Once Envi gets back to his feet, the crowd cheers as Smith climbs to the top turnbuckle, flips off and knocks him down with a plancha.

Kris Cruise: And there goes Noelle Smith with a high risk move onto her former beau!

Stryker rolls back into the ring and readies himself for a dive to the outside. After grabbing the top rope with both hands, Stryker goes for a springboard shooting star press to the outside. But as soon as Stryker springboards onto the top rope, SFS comes from behind and yanks his leg out from under him, causing Stryker to smack his face against the top rope before landing hard on the canvas. The crowd boos as SFS goes back to putting the boots to Stryker’s chest.

Kris Cruise: That damn Sadie San Francisco is right there to save Envi’s bacon yet again!

Stephy Auger: If only we all had someone as loyal as Sadie!

After dragging Stryker’s upperbody out onto the apron, SFS climbs up onto the apron. After hoisting herself up onto the middle turnbuckle connector, she leaps off and goes for a diving fist drop to the throat. But Stryker rolls back inside the ring, causing SFS to crash onto the floor.

Kris Cruise: She whiffed!

After Camp Envi help each other up on the outside, the crowd explodes with cheers when Stryker knocks them both down with a springboard shooting star press to the floor.

Kris Cruise: What a move by Stryker to the outside! He just took out Camp Envi!

Stephy Auger: Gah!

Stryker picks up Envi and rolls him back inside. After rolling himself back in, he makes the cover.

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

Stryker picks up Envi and delivers an arm wrench/hook kick combination. The hook kick knocks Envi back into the Stryker/Smith corner. While Envi is trying to shake off the cobwebs, Stryker heads over and tags Smith back in. Smith gets in and pummels Envi down in the corner with a flurry of right hands to the face. She then follows up by mudhole stomping Envi while he’s down in the corner.

Smith reaches down, pulls Envi up and brings him out of the corner before whipping him into the far ropes. When Envi returns, Smith and Stryker deliver a double back body drop. Envi gets a ton of a hang time before crashing hard on the canvas. Envi immediately arches his back in pain. But Smith pushes him down as she makes the cover.

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

Smith picks up Envi and whips him hard into the corner. Again, Envi arches his back once it collides with the turnbuckles. After lining him up, Smith runs into the corner leaps up and connects with a corner dropkick, sending Envi crumbling from out of the corner.

Smith heads to the outside and begins to climb up to the top turnbuckle. But she’s quickly pulls back down onto the apron from SFS.

Kris Cruise: There she is again!

Stephy Auger: Just like last week!

Smith responds by nailing her with a back elbow to the face. After shoving SFS down onto the apron, Smith begins to scale up to the top turnbuckle. But as soon as she reaches the top, Envi sprints up to the top turnbuckle, lifts her up and throws her down with the Tippyplex (top rope Falcon Arrow).

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

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

Kris Cruise: What a nearfall that was for Evan Envi!

Envi picks up Smith and whips her into the ropes. When Smith returns, Envi swings around and latches onto her with a sleeper hold.

Stephy Auger: There you go, Envi! Put the groupie to sleep!

The crowd boos as Envi tries to put Smith to sleep. Smith can be seen swinging her arms around wildly as Envi cinches in the hold. The ref asks her if she wants to give up. Smith responds by reaching back and bringing Envi down with a kneeling jawbreaker. While Envi is dazed, Smith gets back to her feet and goes to follow up with a Pelé Kick. But Envi catches her leg and quickly transitions into a standing ankle lock.

Stephy Auger: Envi catches her with an ankle lock!

The ref asks Smith if she wants to give up. When Smith refuses, Envi begins to crank away at the ankle.

Kris Cruise: He’s trying to snap that ankle in two, Stephy!

Envi begins trying to turn the ankle in each direction while Smith groans in pain. After standing up on her hands, she leans forward, sending Envi staggering into the corner. After he smacks his face against the top turnbuckle, Envi staggers back. Smith slowly gets back to her feet, turns him around and wraps him up in the Fruit Rollup (small package).

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Envi kicks out.

After both grapplers return to their feet, Envi quickly grabs Smith, lifts her up and throws her down with a Uranage to boos from the crowd. Envi holds the small of his back as he staggers over into the Camp Envi corner and tags SFS back in. Once SFS gets in, she goes over and puts the boots to Smith before dragging her across the ring. She then tags Envi back in an heads to the outside. While SFS chokes Smith from the outside, Envi runs into the far ropes, comes back and connects with a basement dropkick. He makes the cover.

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

Envi tags SFS back in. After SFS comes back, Camp Envi take Smith and whip her into the far ropes. When Smith returns, they knock her down with a double running front dropkick. SFS makes the cover.

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

SFS heads over and tags Envi back in. Envi picks up Smith and holds her from behind while SFS runs into the ropes. When SFS returns, Camp Envi deliver a high knee strike/German Suplex combination. Envi makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
The crowd cheers when Stryker drags Envi off of Smith.

Kris Cruise: Good save there by Stry-

While Stryker turns and heads over towards the ropes, SFS runs up from behind and connects with a high knee strike, knocking Stryker through the ropes and to the floor.

Stephy Auger: Good!

Back in the ring, SFS climbs up onto the middle ropes while Envi hooks Smith’s legs. On cue, the crowd boos when Camp Envi deliver a catapult into a flying knee strike combination. Envi makes the cover.

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

Smith gets her shoulder up.

Envi makes the cover.

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

Envi grabs Smith by the hair and repeatedly rams the back of her head against the canvas. The crowd boos as he continues his assault before making the cover.

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

Smith gets her shoulder up. Envi slowly runs his fingers down his face out of frustration.

Stephy Auger: I’m just as frustrated as our Chief in! How is that groupie not done!?

Kris Cruise: Noelle Smith’s got a tremendous amount of fight in her!

Envi picks up Smith, pushes her head down and hooks both of her arms. After looking around at the crowd, Envi hoists her up for a double underhook powerbomb. But Smith spins on his shoulder and flips back, spiking him with an inverted hurricanrana to an explosion of cheers.

Stephy Auger: OH NO!

Kris Cruise: Smith just countered with an inverted hurricanrana!

Stephy Auger: C’mon, Chief! Get up!

While both grapplers are down, the ref starts his count.

ONE!




TWO!




THREE!





FOUR!




SI-

Smith returns to her feet and motions to tag out to Stryker. But Smith grabs her from behind.

Stephy Auger: Not so fast!

Envi tries to pull her back while Smith desperately reaches out for a tag. After Envi yanks Smith back over into his clutches, he sets her up for a German Suplex. But Smith cracks him with an elbow to the face. She then runs back over towards her corner. But again, Envi reaches out and grabs her from behind. This time, Smith leaps through his clutches, dives over and tags Stryker back in. The crowd responds with a roar of cheers.

Kris Cruise: This crowd is on their feet as Stryker gets tagged back in.

As Envi motions towards the corner, Stryker springboards to the top turnbuckle, leaps off and knocks him down with a missile dropkick. After kipping up, Stryker runs over towards the Camp Envi corner and sends SFS flying off the apron with a running elbow smash. He then steps back through the ropes and scales to the top turnbuckles. Once Envi gets back to his feet and turns around, Stryker leaps off and brings him down with a diving crossbody. He then rolls off of Envi, returns to his feet, runs back over and delivers a standing shooting star press. He hooks the leg.

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

The crowd sighs, then boos when Envi gets his shoulder up.

Stryker picks up Envi and wraps him up in a crossface chickenwing from behind.

Kris Cruise: Stryker locks Envi in the submission! He’s got the chickenwing applied!

The ref asks Envi if he wants to give up. When Envi refuses, Stryker tries to lift him up for a chickenwing suplex. But Envi uses his free hand to grab the ref’s shirt and pull him close to him. While the ref is trying to separate himself from Envi, Envi low blows Stryker with a mule kick.

Kris Cruise: OH COME ON!

After letting go of the ref, Envi performs a standing switch and follows up with a bridging German Suplex.

ONE!
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TWO!
.
.
TH-NO!

Smith kicks Envi’s leg out from under him, breaking the bridge and the pin.

Envi heads over and tags SFS back in. Camp Envi then head over, pick up Stryker and plant him with a double DDT. SFS makes the cover.

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

Stryker gets his shoulder up.

SFS turns Stryker and locks him in a crossface chickenwing.

Stephy Auger: HA! How does Stryker like it when the shoe is on the other foot!?

The ref asks Stryker if he wants to give up. After refusing, Stryker leans forcing, lifting SFS onto his back. He then runs backwards into the corner. But SFS keeps the hold applied. So Stryker steps forward, then runs backwards into the corner. But again, SFS keeps the hold applied. Stryker then turns, runs and jumps backwards into his corner. This time, the hold is broken. After a back elbow to the face, Stryker follows up with a CCS Enzuigiri. As SFS staggers from out of the corner, Stryker turns over and tags Smith back in.

SFS turns and sees Smith climbing the turnbuckle. So she runs over to shove Smith off. But Smith dives over the oncoming attack. After Smith lands on her feet, her momentum sends her rolling forward. When Smith turns around, SFS runs over to attack. But Smith stops her with a kick to the midsection. She then goes to irish whip SFS. But SFS reverses, sending Smith into the corner. SFS then charges into the corner. But Smith knocks her back with boot to the face. Smith then motions to walk out of the corner. But Envi grabs her from behind.

Kris Cruise: Hey!

Smith tries to wrestle her arm away from Envi. But unbeknownst to Smith, SFS is charging from behind. When Smith gets free and turns around, SFS throws out a running high knee. But Smith dives out of the way, causing SFS to accidentally knock Envi off the apron and to the floor. The crowd cheers as Envi lays sprawled out on the floor.

Stephy Auger: OH NO! Our poor Chief!

When SFS turns around, Smith doubles her over with a kick to the midsection before bringing her down with Swing, Set, Match (swinging neckbreaker). The crowd cheers as she makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd cheers when “Lose My Breath” blasts over the PA.

J.A. Aldridge: Here are your winners, NOELLE SMITH and BRIAN STRYKER!

The crowd continue to cheer as smith and Stryker get their arms raised.

Kris Cruise: Noelle Smith and Brian Stryker gain a measure of revenge with a win over Camp Envi tonight!

Stephy Auger: This isn’t over, Cruise. This is FAR from over...

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

The show cuts backstage to where Spencer Burke is standing, waiting for his scheduled guest to appear. With a quick glance down at his watch it would seem as if Spencer is growing impatient, but his attention is suddenly grabbed by a distant sound from somewhere nearby.

CAAAAAAWWWWWW

The squawk seems to echo throughout the hallway, but it’s only Spencer who reacts to the noise. The nearby workers, albeit off camera ones, don’t flinch at all. Nor do they react to the increasingly panicked Spencer Burke, when suddenly…

Annie Zellor: Don’t worry, I wasn’t gonna talk to you anyway…

The Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion says from behind Spencer; he quickly turns around, jumping backwards as he sees Annie standing there with her title belt slung over one shoulder.

Spencer Burke: D-did you h-hear that?

Annie Zellor: I saw you pissing your pants, but nah, I didn’t hear it.

Spencer Burke: The bird! The crow!

She stares incredulously at Spencer as if he’s gone insane, looking him up and down as Annie goes to step around him--

Annie Zellor: Whatever, weirdo.

--only for her to nearly walk into the chest of The Tenacious Little Bastard. Zellor takes a step back as she and Dom meet eyes; she wears an impassive expression as Harter tilts his head down, that familiar crooked grin on his face until he begins to speak.

Dom Harter: What’s the hurry? It’s not like you’ve got a match to interrupt - I don’t wrestle until after the break.

Annie Zellor: I wasn’t eve--nevermind. I was just getting away from him (she points at Spencer) before he goes completely crazy.

Spencer seems to take offense to that, but his proclamations fall on deaf ears.

Dom Harter: He’s got a few more years before that happens. Whereas you…

Annie Zellor: I’m not crazy!

Dom Harter: I don’t know. You accepted my challenge, then you tried to attack me after my match against Molly. Some might say you’ve got a death wish…

Annie Zellor: Good thing you’ve turned over a new leaf then, huh.

Annie quips before smiling up at her future opponent; Dom just chuckles to himself as he runs a hand through his hair though, before he wags a finger in Annie’s face.

Dom Harter: Smart girl. But here’s the thing, after what you did last week my patience is wearing thin. After I’m done with The Crimson Baroness is Everett in two weeks time I doubt I’ll be in any better of a mood. After I have to endure more Young Guns Cup participants try to tell me they’re going to be the ones to eliminate me, I won’t be in a good mood - you remember the Young Guns Cup, right?

Zellor just glares at him.

Dom Harter: Thought so. And this match at Grapple Kingdom won’t be a ladder match so you can’t f*ck me over like you did Salem…

Annie Zellor: I won’t need to, Dommy. You think you’re gonna be in a bad mood … try not getting a rematch for the world title you just lost. Try having to wrestle so soon after that - against you of all people! - and getting eliminated from the Young Guns Cup ‘cause of it. Try having some douchebag calling you out for six months wanting a title shot at this belt, distracting you from the people actually challenging for the title. Try having to put up with Dom Harter for six months and see how you feel!

She jabs a finger against his chest, and the smirk has long since faded from Dom’s face at this point.

Annie Zellor: ‘Cause that’s enough to put most people off - just ask any of your ex-girlfriends.

Harter stifles his laughter at that jab, and shakes his head.

Annie Zellor: You got your match, Dommy. You’ve got your chance for the Grand Slam next month. But this? This is my belt; I’ve shed blood, sweat, and tears to become a two time FGA Mid-Atlantic Champion and if you think that I won’t do whatever I need to to defend then you’re dead wrong!

Dom Harter: I know you will…

Harter responds as he turns to walk away.

Dom Harter: You just have to find the trick I don’t know how to counter…

With that, Annie lunges forward, dropping to one knee as she goes to low blow Harter from behind. But he stays standing as Annie holds her forearm in pain. Harter walks away with his head held high as Annie whines to herself, glaring down the hallway as she does so.

Annie Zellor: A cup!?

[FGA Office]

Izzy Anders vs. Chris Bond

"If you take a life, do you know what you'll give...
Odds are, you won't like what it is...
When the storm arrives, would you be seen with me...
By the merciless eyes I've deceived...
I've seen angels fall from blinding heights...
But you yourself are nothing so divine...
Just next in line..."

The house lights dim in the smaller facility, and multi-colored lights soon flicker throughout the filled-to-the-brim center. The crowd jumps to it's feet, blowing the roof off from the much smaller arena as Chris Bond makes his way out from behind the curtains. As he emerges from behind the curtain, there is a small burst of excitement from the crowd. With a spotlight lighting his way, Bond makes his way down the aisle and towards the ring, even slapping a few hands on the way down.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, now residing out of Greensboro, North Carolina! Weighing in at 242 pounds… CHRIIIIIIIS BOOOOOOOND!!!

Soon enough he jogs up the stairs, and walks along the ring apron before wiping his feet. Chris Bond steps over the second rope and into the ring. The self-proclaimed legend of the wrestling world walks to the center of the ring and stands there for a moment, as flashes go off throughout the waves of fans. He circles the ring, arms outstretched, as the fans cheer loudly once again. Bond enjoys this, as his trademark smirk re-emerges on his face. Heading to his corner, Bond does a few stretches as he waits for the match to begin.

Kris Cruise: After months on the injured list, Chris Bond is returning to active competition, Stephy!

Stephy Auger: Why, so he can get injured again for the umpteenth time? I’ve got a better question. Why wasn’t he here last week. The man was advertised! Did he have an expired passport? Or did it take him an extra week to find the guts to walk down the ramp?

A somber strum of a guitar echoed out throughout the arena. The lights in the arena began to dim to a haunting dark purple color. From behind the curtain, a figure comes out. She lingers in the darkness, before creeping into the spotlight. She wears a long, dark cloak; it softly breezes in the wind. When "One More Soul to the Call" by Mary Elizabeth McGlynn begins to pick up, she unfastens the coat. She takes it off in a heavy flourish, the song picks up completely, transforming into a hard rock song.

♫ DAMAGE DONE TO THE FLESH, WHAT THEY SAID, IN THE NAME OF THE...
DAMAGE DONE TO THE HEART, IS THE START, OF THE END!
DAMAGE DONE TO MY SOUL, I KNOW, IT KNOWS WHERE MY...
DAMAGE DONE TO MY LIFE, CURSING LOUD, AT THE CHAOS ♫

J.A. Aldridge: Making her way down to the ring, fighting out of Holland, Michigan, weighing in at a 157 pounds, she is the Mindkiller, IZZZZZY ANDEEEEEEERS!

♫ ONE MORE SOUL TO THE CALL, FOR ALL, IN SILENCE...
COMES TWO MORE SOULS TO THE CALL, FOR ALL, AND IN TIME!
THREE MORE MORE SOULS TO THE CALL, THEY FALL...
UNKNOWING THAT FOUR MORE SOULS TO THE CALL, WON'T BE ALL, AND YOU KNOW IT! ♫

Izzy ascends the turnbuckle, her eyepatch clear as day. She grabs onto it, ripping it off with a dramatic elegance. The eye under it burns brightly with a shade of red. She leaps off the turnbuckle, walking methodically to the center of the ring. There, she poses once more, enjoying the haunting and heavy rhythm of her own song. She looks up to the sky, smiling wickedly. She awaits the match to start with a sadistic aura radiating off her.

Kris Cruise: Earlier tonight, Izzy Anders had an intense altercation with Johnny Karma. But Karma didn’t fight her. Instead, he walked away, insinuating that someone like Izzy wasn’t worth fighting. You know that’s got to bruise her ego.

Stephy Auger: Try not to sound so happy when you say that, Cruise. If Karma’s too much of a coward to defend his good friend, then that shows just what kind of a man he really is.

The bell sounds as both grapplers motion for a lock up. But Anders opts out in favor of a kick to the midsection. She then quickly grabs Bond from the right side before bringing him down into a rolling kneebar.

Kris Cruise: Anders is going right after Bond’s knee!

Stephy Auger: Good! That’s smart!

The crowd roars with boos as Anders immediately goes to work on Bond’s surgically repaired knee. But Bond is able to scoot himself over, reach out and grabs a hold of the bottom rope. But Anders doesn’t let go. So the ref gives her until the count of five to break the hold.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Anders breaks the hold. As she heads back towards the center of the ring, Bond pulls himself up using the ropes. He then shakes his right leg before circling the ring. The two grapplers the size each other up before motioning for a lock up. But again, Anders opts out. This time, she brings Bond back down to the canvas with a standing single leg takedown. She then takes Bond by the right leg and goes for a figure four leglock. But when Anders turns around, he uses his free leg to knock her down.

After both grapplers return to their feet, they take a few steps back before circling the ring.

Kris Cruise: Bond looks to be a step too slow for Anders.

Stephy Auger: A step? How about several, Cruise.


Anders slowly makes her way back over to Bond. She then shoots in and tries to grab a hold of his right leg. But Bond is able to strafe to his left. Anders gets back to her feet and slowly inches her way over towards Bond. The former two-time Pride Champion keeps his hands out to defend himself from another attack. Anders keeps faking rights and left before shooting in for another takedown. But again, Bond is able to strafe to his left.

Kris Cruise: He’s got her timing down now, Stephy.

Anders gets back to her feet and follows Bond across the ring. She keeps motioning for a takedown. But Bond is ready. So Anders changes things up, runs right at Bond and nails him with a European Uppercut. After Bond stumbles back into the ropes, he bounces back and catches Anders with a European Uppercut of his own. Anders fires off another European Uppercut. But Bond comes right back with another European Uppercut of his own. Anders then delivers another European Uppercut. Then Bond answers back with a European Uppercut of his own. The two continue to trade European Uppercuts at the crowd cheer.

Kris Cruise: Look at these two go!

Both grapplers continue to exchange European Uppercuts until Bond gains the upperhand. He nails Anders with another European Uppercut, sending her stumbling back into the ropes. Bond then goes over to grab her. But Anders is quick to deliver a front kick to Bond’s right knee.

Stephy Auger: Just like that, she’s back in control!

After Bond reaches down and grabs his knee, she quickly grabs him and tosses him out onto the apron. She then reaches through the ropes, grabs Bond, drapes him across the middle rope and then plants him with a rope hung DDT!

Kris Cruise: ANDERS JUST STOLE HIS MOVE!

Stephy Auger: Good! She did it better than he ever did, anyway!

The crowd continues to boo as Anders pushes Bond over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Bond kicks out.

Anders picks up Bond, moves him into the corner and cracks him across the jaw with a hard elbow strike. She then takes Bond and whips him across the ring before charging into the opposite corner and connecting with a European Uppercut. She then takes Bond’s right leg, drapes it across the middle rope and proceeds to delivers five knee strikes to the side of the knee.

While Bond’s leg is still hooked up on the ropes, Anders delivers a series of machine gun punches to Bond before the ref gets in and moves her back.

Stephy Auger: What are you doing, ref!? If Bond can’t protect himself, then stop the match!

After the ref heads back over and unhooks Bond’s right leg from around the middle rope, Anders runs back into the corner. But Bond knocks her back with a back elbow to the face. Anders shakes off the blow before running back into the corner. This time, Bond knocks her back with a European Uppercut. After shaking off the blow, Anders runs back into the corner. This time, Bond delivers another back elbow smash. As Anders stumbles back, Bond makes his way from out of the corner before bringing her down with a rolling knee bar of his own. The crowd roars with cheers.

Kris Cruise: Some payback from Bond right here!

Anders wails as Bond’s got the submission locked in. The ref then asks her if she wants to give up. But she refuses. Anders then does her best to scoot herself towards the edge of the ring. She then reaches over and grabs the bottom rope.

Bond reluctantly releases the hold before running to his feet. He shakes his right leg as Anders pulls herself up using the ropes. When Anders turns around, Bond grabs her and whips her into the far ropes. When Anders returns, Bond flattens her with a running lariat. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Anders kicks out.

Bond picks up Anders, marches into the corner and slams her face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning Anders around, Bond delivers three European Uppercuts. After a left knee to the midsection doubles her over, Bond puts her in a headlock before going for a running bulldog from out of the corner. But Anders shoves Bond off of her and into the ropes. When Bond returns, the crowd cheers when he turns Anders inside out with another running lariat. He makes the cover.

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

Anders gets her shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: How about that lariat from Bond!?

Stephy Auger: What about it? It only got a two count.

Bond picks up Anders, lifts her up from the side and delivers a belly to back suplex. He makes the cover.

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

Bond picks her up and whips her into the ropes. When Anders returns, Bond brings her down with an STO backbreaker across his left knee. He then makes the cover.

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

Bond picks up Anders and sets her up for a German Suplex from behind. But Anders blocks with three back elbows to the face. Once she’s free, Anders takes off into the ropes. When Anders returns, Bond swings around her and applies a standing rear naked choke. When Anders refuses to quit, Bond brings her down with a rear naked chokedrop. He makes the cover.

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

Anders gets her shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Bond’s really starting to pour it on, Stephy! When’s the last time you saw Chris Bond taking it to an opponent like this!?

Stephy Auger: Hold your horses, Cruise! The match is far from over!

Bond picks up Anders. After pulling his arm back, he throws out another lariat. But Anders counters into a Fujiwara armbar.

Stephy Auger: Just like that, she’s back in control again!

Anders pulls back on the arm while Bond groans in pain. The ref asks him if he wants to give up. But Bond refuses. Bond then does his best to pull himself over towards the side of the ring. But Anders lets go, drags Bond towards the center of the ring, drops back down and applies the Fujiwara Armbar again. The crowd continues to boo as Anders tries to injure Bond.

Stephy Auger: Look at him, Cruise! He wants to tap!

Bond grits his teeth and groans while Anders pulls back on the arm. The ref asks him if he wants to give up. But Bond refuses.

Kris Cruise: Bond’s trying to fight through the pain! But how long can he hold on for!?

Anders continues to crank away on the arm. The ref asks him if he wants to give up. But again, Bond refuses.
Stephy Auger: I’d tell him not to do anything stupid. But he continues to come back despite his laundry list of injuries!

Bond begins to pull himself towards the side of the ring. Anders tries to stop him. But he continues to make progress. So Anders lets go, drags him back towards the center of the ring and delivers a punt kick to the ribs. After Bond tries to push himself up on all fours, Anders delivers another punt kick to the ribs. She then reaches out, pulls Bond up and delivers a snapmare before pointing to a random fan in the crowd. Anders runs into the ropes. When she returns, the crowd boos when she flattens Bond with a Penalty Kick to the chest. She then drops down and makes the cover.

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

Anders quickly sits Bond up, traps him in a grounded crucifix and then unleashes a barrage of elbow strikes to the side of the head.

Stephy Auger: Look at that, Cruise! That’s the same move Bond was put out of action with last September!

The crowd erupts with boos as Anders continues to bash Bond with elbow after elbow.

Kris Cruise: There’s some malicious intent behind each and every single one of those elbows!

Anders lets go before making the cover.

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

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

While Bond tries to shake off the cobwebs, Anders returns to her feet and slowly circles Bond. She goes over and delivers a stomp to his left ankle, left knee and left wrist. She then followed up with a stomp to his right elbow, right wrist and right thigh. She then heads over and delivers a jumping stomp to his right knee. After Bond sits up to grab his knee, Anders knocks him back with with a kick to the head. She then goes over and delivers several stomps to the head before finishing off with a jumping stomp. But instead of stepping off, Anders keeps her foot pressed down across Bond’s face. The crowd boos while Bond can he heard groaning in pain. Anders finishes off the attacks with a boot scrape across the face.

Anders takes Bond and whips him into the corner. She then runs across the ring and connects with a step-up enzuigiri. Bond then staggers from out of the corner before dropping down to a knee. Anders sees this, so she returns to her feet before running into the far ropes. When Anders returns, she knocks Bond down with a Shining Yakuza Kick. She makes the cover.

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

Bond gets his shoulder up.

Anders picks up Bond and doubles him over with three knee strikes to the midsection. She then slowly hooks one arm, then another to set up a double underhook piledriver.

Kris Cruise: he isn’t… is she!? Can she!?

Stephy Auger: Spin The Black Circle: REDUX! You know it’s coming...

Anders goes to lift up Bond, but Bond counters with a back body drop. The crowd cheers as Anders lands back-first on the mat. But the effort put into the reversal causes Bond to stumble forward and collapse against the ropes.

While Bond gathers himself, Anders slowly turns over and returns to her feet. She charges over at Bond. But Bond knocks her back with a back elbow to the face. Anders then runs back into the ropes. But again, Bond knocks her back with a back elbow to the face. After shaking off the blow, Anders runs back over at Bond. This time, Bond catches her with a European Uppercut. He then delivers a quick left knee to the midsection before tossing Anders through the ropes and onto the apron. Bond then quickly reaches through the ropes, brings Anders across the middle rope and plants her with the Rejection DDT to an explosion of cheers!

Kris Cruise: Now that’s how it’s done!

Bond slowly turns over, pushes Anders over and makes the cover.

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

Anders gets her shoulder up.

Bond picks up Anders and whips her into the ropes. When Anders returns, Bond sets up for a back body drop. But Anders sees it coming. So she stops and delivers a kick to the right clavicle, which knocks Bond upright. She then goes to throw out a kick flurry. But Bond catches her leg and throws her down with a dragon screw leg whip.

Bond picks up Anders and whips her into the ropes. When Anders returns, he throws her down with an STO. He then brings Anders back to her feet, scoops her up and throws her down with a Michinoku Driver.

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

The crowd boos when Anders gets her shoulder up.

Bond picks up Anders, grabs her around the waist and lifts her up for a gutwrench powerbomb. But Anders nails Bond with an elbow to the top of the head. After Anders drops in front of Bond, she fires off the kick flurry. While Bond is dazed, Anders turns and runs into the ropes. When Anders returns, the crowd cheers when Bond lifts her up, turns and throws her down with a spinebuster. He rolls across Anders and hooks the leg.

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

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

Kris Cruise: How much closer can you get!?

Bond picks up Anders, grabs her from behind and lifts her up for a German Suplex. But Anders counters with an elbow to the face. Bond then lifts Anders up for another German Suplex. But again, Anders nails him with an elbow to the face. She then nails Bond with three more elbows before performing a standing switch and pushing Bond into the ropes. When Bond returns, the crowd boos when Anders knocks him down with the Capetown Sunset (540 Kick). She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd erupts with boos when “One More Soul to the Call” blares throughout the arena.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, IZZY ANDERS

Anders gets her arm raised. But she quickly rips it away from the ref.

Kris Cruise: Chris Bond looked pretty damn good out there in his FGA return. But in the end, he wasn't able to overcome Izzy Anders

Stephy Auger: I hope Karma’s back there watching. That and much worse will be in his future. All she has to do is pick the date and she can take him apart. If you thought what she did to Harter was something, you haven’t seen anything yet….

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

The show cuts back to the the arena and a shot of the crowd cheering. They begin to cheer even louder as Metro Station suddenly blasts over the loudspeakers. Molly Reid walks out from backstage, her right arm wrapped up in a sling and her Pride Championship slung over her other shoulder. She grins as she slowly starts to walk down the ramp, nodding at fans instead of her usual high-fiving that she’d do with two working arms.

Kris Cruise: Molly isn’t set to wrestle tonight, but it looks like she wanted to come out to say something anyways. She’s sporting that sling on her right shoulder after suffering an undisclosed injury in her recent loss against Artemis Kaiser in the Young Guns Cup tournament just a few days ago. What a match that was, she did FGA proud.

Stephy Auger: She would’ve made me a lot prouder if she had won. All she did was beat two rookies, doesn’t say much to me.

Molly reaches the ring and walks up the steps. She pauses at the top to acknowledge some nearby fans, before she ducks underneath and enters the ring. Molly smiles as she stands in the middle of the ring, soaking everything in. She walks over to the corner of the ring and gets one of the ring hands to give her a microphone. She awkwardly fumbles with it and her title belt, before she manages to put it in her sling hand, but it causes her to drop her belt. She laughs to herself as she bends down to pick it up.

Molly Reid: Sorry guys, still getting used to this

Molly grabs the belt and lifts it up, throwing it over her shoulder before standing back up tall and looking out at the crowd.

Molly Reid: There we go. First things first, I want to say how unbelievably excited I am to be back in AMERICA! I’ve been out of the country since late 2016 travelling for these FGA shows and then the Young Guns Cup. But I’m back, and I couldn’t be more excited than I am right now being here in Eugene and the great state of Oregon!

The crowd pops loudly at the mention of Eugene and Oregon, as cities often do when they’re brought up like this. Molly grins in the ring.

Molly Reid: Y’all know I was born in Vancouver, moved to Los Angeles, lived out there all my life. It’s like they say, West Coast is the best coast! But seriously, I’m so happy to back in the country after so much time away, and I’m even more excited to be doing it right here in front of all of y’all. That’s actually why I came out here. Well one of the reasons actually. But I wanted to come out here and apologize.

Molly pauses for a moment as the crowd voices their disagreement.

Molly Reid: My whole experience in the Young Guns Cup was fantastic. I wanted to represent FGA as best I could. I dreamed of a finals match with Dom so that no matter what, FGA would get the win. When I saw the bracket, I knew I would likely have to go through Artemis. I was ready. I knew I could beat her. Even during the match, nothing she did was so crazy that it made me doubt myself. The entire time I was so sure that I could come away with the win and move on. That I could keep FGA’s double finalist hopes alive. But I didn’t. I let y’all down. I thought I had a chance to get the win and I was wrong. Wrestling is all about not making that one mistake, because that’s all it takes to lose a match. And I made that one mistake. Going for that spear was a mistake, and I paid for it with this stupid thing.

Molly motions to her shoulder with a frown on her face. She quickly looks back up at the crowd.

Molly Reid: And don’t worry, this is mostly precautionary. Doctor’s said it was a slight separation but should be healed in two weeks. So I’ll be ready for Vertigo 29 in two weeks in Everett. Speaking of which, that’s actually the other reason I came out here-

Before Molly can finish, "War Machine" by KISS suddenly blasts over the loudspeakers. The live audience jump to their feet, anticipating Frankie Morrison to slide through the curtains with his client following just feet behind him. Much to their surprise, Chris Madison steps out wearing street clothes, all alone. He makes it to the base of the entranceway and bounces on his toes from side to side, all while locking eyes with the Pride Champion.

Kris Cruise: Chris has been preaching that he'd be a different kind of challenger than what Molly just went through with Evan Envi. But he looks like he means all business and Molly doesn't look to be in any condition to fight!

Stephy Auger: This is incredible! I knew it wouldn't last long! Madison is like a shark that tastes blood in the water!

Chris strolls down the entranceway, following Molly's slightest steps with his eyes as he closes the gap. Madison makes it to the ring and slowly climbs up onto the ring apron. He grabs the top rope with both hands and just stares at the champion. Madison slightly nods his head and then steps between the ropes. He walks right passed Molly and signals for a microphone.

Chris Madison: I decided to leave my mouthpiece backstage, so you and I could straighten some things out...

The crowd collectively gasps, unsure if Madison is going to take advantage of Molly's current condition. Molly blades her body, turning her bad arm away from Madison. He looks her up and down before cracking a smile.

Chris Madison: Easy there champ! I'm a man of my word... I told you that you weren't going to have to look over your shoulder with every step that you take, and I meant that!

Molly cautiously brings her body back to a more relaxed position.

Chris Madison: I will say, I'm a little disappointed to see you standing here with your arm tied up in a sling. I was hoping that at Grapple Kingdom I would get the best Molly Reid I could possibly face. But then again, seeing how you've competed as of late, I'm not all that surprised to see it catching up to you... From the start of your feud with Evan Envi, to shocking FGA fans by becoming the Pride Champion, all the way to this Young Guns Cup tournament you've been representing FGA in; your schedule has been non stop and you've been pushing that pedal down to the floor. You've forced your way into the spotlight and have made the most out of every opportunity. Unfortunately you're starting to learn that kind of pace could be taxing. This business is catching up to you.

Madison points to Molly's arm.

Chris Madison: I hope that by the time we face off for that strap, that arm is one hundred percent!

Madison takes a step back and leans onto the top rope.

Chris Madison: Unfortunately I'm starting to find it a little hard to believe that you're going to give me a fair shake at that title. It's not a talent thing. You've definitely got the ability; and anyone who thinks otherwise has been missing out on the clinics you've put on. But, last week, against Dom Harter, we all witnessed a different side of Molly Reid. You showed us a willingness to do anything it takes in order to win. Annie and The Crimson Baroness paraded down to this ring, played their games with Dom and you didn't bat an eye. You also did your best Annie impression by taking advantage of a referee's mistake and grabbed a handful of tights. If you ask me, there's nothing about your performance last week to be proud about. And if this is just a sign of things to come, you'll never fill those expectations you have of yourself to become the greatest Pride Champion this company has ever seen...

Molly stares at Chris for a few moments before finally bringing her microphone up to her mouth to talk.

Molly Reid: First off, don’t worry, my shoulder’s gonna be one-hundred percent for our match. Secondly, let’s get one thing straight. What happened last week had nothing to do with what’s going to happen in our match. Don’t stand there are tell me that what I did was wrong or immoral or whatever you’re trying to say. I didn’t even know Annie was there! Watch the match again and it’s pretty obvious. When she climbed onto the apron, Dom was setting me up for the Silent Machine, facing away from her! So when he released me, I took a second to gather myself. I saw him standing near the ropes with his back to me, so I rolled him up. What did you expect me to do? Sit there and wait for him to turn around and face me and then start the match again? I don’t know about you, but if I see your back turned to me in our match for whatever reason, I’m doing what I need to do. I suggest you do the same. The point is, don’t act like I did something wrong here. Dom got distracted, and I took advantage. There was no planning behind it, I wasn’t expecting Annie to come out. I wrestled the match as it unfolded in front of me. Nothing more than that. This is wrestling. One mistake is all it takes to lose. I’m not going to give anyone the benefit of the doubt. Even Dom agrees with me, he’ll be the first to tell you that I did nothing wrong and that it was his own fault for getting distracted. Nobody ever gave any of my opponents crap when they took advantage of Envi’s distractions, so don’t give me crap because I took advantage when the shoe was on the other foot.

Molly pauses for a moment with an angry look on her face, before immediately jumping back in to add more.

Molly Reid: And as for the tights, I went over this last week! I was so in the zone that I don’t remember if I grabbed his tights. And neither does Dom! And there’s no video that shows that I did. So it comes down to the referee and he said I didn’t grab any tights, so I guess I didn’t. I don’t know what you want me to say. Nothing about my match last week was intentionally cheating. I didn’t take any page out of Annie’s book, I didn’t try to cheat. I’ve always done whatever it takes to win but I never go beyond the rules. So stop making these excuses for me. Last week I beat Dom Harter fair and square. One of the best wrestlers in this company, a former world champion, the potential winner of the Young Guns Cup, and I beat him. That’s the end of the story. I’m incredibly proud of what I accomplished in beating Dom Harter, and I don’t believe for a second that what happened does anything to take away from my claim to be the greatest Pride Champion in FGA history. If you really think that me taking advantage of a mistake by my opponent is somehow lesser-than, well, I’m sorry you feel that way. But I’m not going to change how I do things. If you get distracted in our match, I’m not going to wait for you to regain your focus. This is wrestling. I’ve been screwed over too many times by that and nobody felt sorry for me then. But Chris, if you’re really worried, I’ll say it out loud so that everyone can hear me. You have my word, as a champion, that I will beat you fair and square. I will not cheat, I will not plan any kind of interference, I will just beat you straight up, woman-to-man.

Chris Madison: All I’m saying is that it's a slippery slope you're going down. Maybe you didn't know they'd parade down here and distract Dom. Maybe that handful of tights was accidental. I hope that is the case. Like I said, you have all the talent in the world; I've never tried to take that away from you. It's just a matter of how far will you go to keep that belt? You're offering up plenty of excuses but at no point have you publicly criticized your friends for sticking their noses where they don't belong!

Molly Reid: And I won’t. What Annie and the Baroness do is their own business. I’m not going to tell them what to do. They’re trying to play mind games and get in Dom’s head, they have every right to do whatever they want. This is wrestling, this stuff happens and no matter what you do or say, it’s not going to stop. I learned that the hard way. So I’m just rolling with everything now. You’re trying to make this into something bigger than it has to be. I didn’t hear you complaining when Dom threw Annie back into the ring. So don’t tell me I should complain about what happened. They did what they did, Dom made a mistake and I won. It’s as simple as that. End of story. Every single time I step into that ring, I’m willing and ready to do whatever it takes to win. That’s not going to change for our match. So stop focusing on what Annie did outside of the ring, and start focusing on what I did inside of it. And that was beat one of the best wrestlers in this company. That’s what I’m about.

Molly pauses for a moment, but before Chris gets a chance to start talking again, Molly quickly tilts the microphone in her hand back towards her face.

Molly Reid: But whatever. I didn’t come out here to get talked down to like this Chris. I know you’re going to give me a hell of a fight come Grapple Kingdom. And I can guarantee that you’ll get one too. What happened last week has nothing to do with our match, and I don’t want to hear about it anymore. I’ll see everyone in two weeks.

With that, Molly drops her microphone and walks past Chris Madison and climbs under the top rope. She walks down the stairs and continues up the ramp, making sure she has a good grip on her Pride Championship belt.

Kris Cruise: Didn’t she say she had something to announce for next week?

Stephy Auger: Who knows, who cares. I think we were all tired of listening to these two talk anyways, so I’m actually thanking Molly.

The camera cuts back to Chris Madison standing in the ring with a serious look on his face before he turns around to leave the ring as we fade out.

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

Dom Harter vs. Ricky Valero

"The Game" by Motorhead blasts throughout the arena. White and pink strobe lights flash as Ricky makes his appearance and stands through a cloud of fog bouncing on his toes with a sly smirk on his face. He makes his way toward the ring intentionally ignoring the outstretched hands of front row fans along his route. He circles the ring, before reaching the far corner. Slowly he climbs up the steps and leans his back against the ropes, bouncing against them a few times with his arms wrapped over top of them before hopping into the ring.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Staten Island, New York! Weighing in at 227 pounds… RICKYYYYYYY VAAAAAAALEEEEROOOOO!!!

Ricky spins around in the center of the ring with his arms extended out, absorbing the crowd's disdain. He walks towards the ropes on the far side of the ring and simply smiles. The music slowly quiets down as Ricky turns and leans against the ropes closest to the entranceway, awaiting his opponent.

Kris Cruise: I would say that Ricky Valero has switched up his attitude ad of late. But now that I think about it, all he did last week was remind everyone of what a you-know-what he truly is.

Stephy Auger: The man wants to one day become a singles champion here. So he ends up getting stuck in a tag team. If I were him, I’d be ticked off, too. Let’s also not forget about how much Owen Gonsalves was playing up to his hometown crowd instead of tagging out to valero when he needed to. If I’m Valero, I’m not feeling ashamed. I’m feeling justified in my actions.

The opening chords of “Low Self Opinion” begin to play throughout the arena as the some of crowd begin to boo, while others cheer. After ten seconds or so, Dom Harter steps out from behind the curtain. He throws his arms out to either side, the ever familiar crooked grin plastered on his face as he begins to stride down the aisle, soaking in the reaction that are coming from the fans here in Eugene.

J.A. Aldridge: And his opponent, from Cambridge, Ontario, Canada! Weighing in at 225 pounds! He is “The Tenacious Little Bastard”, DOM HAAAAAAAAARTERRRRRR!!!

Harter climbs up the ring steps and climbs in through the middle rope; once inside the squared circle, Harter climbs up to the middle rope, posing for the fans as he waits for the match to start.

Kris Cruise: I don’t think Dom Harter has to worry about Annie Zellor here tonight after that failed low blow by the current Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion.

Stephy Auger: He might have outspartened Zellor recently. But as Zellor said before, she’s going to do everything she can to make sure she goes down as the greatest Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion in company history. If I were Dom, I’d be cautious.

The bell sounds as Harter and Valero meet in the center of the ring for a staredown. But it doesn't take long for the two men to begin verbally going back and forth. The trash talking continues until Valero pops Harter with a right hand. Harter is then quick to respond with a punch of his own. The crowd boos when Valero fires off another right hand. But the boos turn to cheers when Harter comes back with another punch of his own. Valero then throws out another punch. But Harter blocks and counters with a punch of his own. Valero throws out another punch. But again, Harter blocks and counters with a punch of his own. Harter nails Valero with another punch… and another… and ano-NO! Valero doubles him over with a kick to the midsection. He then turns and runs into the ropes. When Valero returns, the crowd cheers as Harter throws him down with an overhead belly to belly suplex.

Valero rolls to the outside and slaps the apron with both hands out of frustration. He then begins to walk around the ring.

Kris Cruise: This match isn’t going the way Valero thought it would.

Stephy Auger: It’s still early. Don’t celebrate just yet.

After circling the ring, Valero climbs up onto the apron before stepping back into the ring. He then sizes up Harter before marching over and motioning for a lock up. At the last second, Valero opts out in favor of a kick to the midsection. But Harter catches his foot. Valero then tries to follow up with an enzuigiri. But Harter ducks, causing Valero to whiff on the kick. He then reaches down, yanks Valero back to his feet and delivers a belly to back suplex. Harter turns and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Valero kicks out.

Harter picks up Valero, moves him into the corner and nails him with five punches to the midsection before following up with five shoulder thrusts. He then takes Valero, whips him across the ring, follows him into the corner and delivers a double knee strike to the midsection. Valero staggers from out of the corner before crumbling to the mat.

Valero rolls to the outside, turns and kicks the guardrail out of frustration. The crowd boos as Valero circles the ring with his hands on his hips.

Kris Cruise: Again, Valero bails to the floor.

Stephy Auger: He’s using this time to regroup, as well as disrupt Hart’s momentum. It’s pretty smart if you ask me.

Valero climbs back up onto the apron and wipes his feet off on the apron before stepping back into the ring. He then begins to slowly may his way back over towards Harter. At the last second, Valero drops down and connects with a basement dropkick to the knee, knocking Harter down to one knee. Valero quickly gets back to his feet and blasts Harter with an elbow smash, knocking the Tenacious Little Bastard down. The crowd continue to boo as Valero puts the boots to Harter. He then drops down to his knees and chokes Harter with one hand.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Valero releases the choke. He then brings Harter back to his feet, grabs him from the side and brings him down with a russian leg sweep. Valero then returns to his feet and heads into the ropes. When Valero returns, he connects with the Leg Drops of Jupiter (a rally of consecutive of leg drops). He then turns over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Harter kicks out.

Valero picks up Harter, moves him into the corner and follows up with a kick to the midsection. After delivering a knife edge chop, he delivers an irish whip, follows Harter into the corner and connects with a corner forearm smash. He then takes Harter and delivers an irish whip back over towards the previous corner. After Harter’s back hits the turnbuckles, Valeor runs across the ring to attack. But Harter’s able to duck and dump Valero over the top rope…

… but Valero lands safely on the apron. When Harter turns around, Valero doubles him over with a shoulder thrust through the ropes. He then slingshots himself into the ring with a sunset flip.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Harter kicks out.

After both grapplers scramble to get back to their feet, Valero runs over and knocks him down with a step-up enzuigiri. He pulls Harter over and makes the cover.

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

Valero picks up Harter and doubles him over with a knee strike to the midsection. After several clubbing shots across the back of the neck, Valero brings him down with a swinging neckbreaker. He makes the cover.

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

Valero picks up Harter and whips him into the ropes. When Harter returns, Valero doubles him over with a knee to the midsection before planting him with a DDT. He turns over and makes the cover.

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

Kris Cruise: Yet another nearfall for Valero! He’s really taking control of this match, hasn't he?

Stephy Auger: He has. I admit that Harter had him off his game at the start of this match. But after that, Valero’s had a firm grip on the match.

As Valero slowly pulls up Harter, Harter begins to nail him with punches to the midsection. But Valero is quick to cut him off with a knee strike. He then takes Harter and goes for an irish whip. But Harter reverses, sending Valero into the corner. Harter then heads into the corner. But Valero steps out and counters the oncoming attack with an overhead belly to belly suplex into the turnbuckles. The crowd roars with boos.

Kris Cruise: What a counter from Valero!

Stephy Auger: An overhead belly to belly right into the turnbuckles! Harter has be hurting pretty badly right now!

While Harter is down, Valero steps out on the apron before climbing up to the top turnbuckle. From there, Valero leaps off and delivers Burying the Hatchet (diving double foot stomp). After rolling off of Harter, Valero crawls back over and makes the cover.

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

Harter gets his shoulder up.

Valero picks up Harter, hooks his arms, lifts him up and brings him down with a double underhook backbreaker. While Harter writhes in pain, Valero steps back out onto the apron. He then readies himself before going for a springboard leg drop. But Harter rolls out of the way!

Stephy Auger: Oh no!

The crowd cheers as Valero sits writhing in pain before turning over onto his stomach. While both men are down, the ref starts his count.

ONE!




TWO!




THREE!




Both men slowly get back to a vertical base. Harter is the first to make a move as he grabs Valero from behind. But Valero’s able to hit a back elbow to the face before performing a standing switch. He then sets up Harter for the PinnaclePlex (release Regal Plex). But Harter counters with elbows to the back of the head. He then performs a standing switch, turns Valero around, quickly grabs him by the wrist and throws out a short-arm clothesline. But Valero ducks and runs into the ropes. When Valero returns, the crowd cheers when Harter knocks him down with a lariat. He makes the cover.

ONE
.
.
TWO!
.
.
TH-NO!

Valero gets his shoulder up.

Harter picks up Valero, grabs him by the wrist and throws out another short-arm clothesline. But again, Valero ducks. When Harter turns around…

Kris Cruise: Pelé Kick! Pelé Kick from Valero!

Stephy Auger: YES!

While Harter is dazed, Valero returns to his feet and runs into the ropes. When Valero returns, the crowd cheers when Harter knocks him down with a yakuza kick. He makes the cover.

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

Valero gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Another nearfall for the Tenacious Little Bastard!

As Harter slowly picks up Valero, Valero begins to hit him with punches to the midsection. Harter then responds by quickly pushing Valero’s head down, lifting him up and planting him with a pulling piledriver. He turns over to make the cover.

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

The crowd boos when Valero gets his shoulder up.

After bringing him back to his feet, the crowd explodes with cheers when Harter takes Valero by the wrist and turns him inside out with a short-arm clothesline. He makes the cover.

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

The crowd sighs, then boos when Valero gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Harter finally hit the short-arm clothesline. But Valero got his shoulder up just in the nick of time!

Harter picks up Valero and goes for an irish whip. But Valero reverses, sending Harter into the ropes. When Harter returns, Valero sets up for a back body drop. But Harter stops, grabs Valero and throws him down with a flapjack powerbomb.

Harter picks up Valero and scoops him up across his shoulders for a Samoan Driver. But Valero delivers repeated elbows to the side of the head. He then slips down from behind and rolls him up with a schoolboy.

ONE!
.
Valero gets his feet on the middle ropes…
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

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

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, RICKY VALERO!

Valero quickly rolls to the outside and stumbles up the aisle before regaining his balance. The ref meets him on the outside and raises his arm. The crowd responds with a roar of boos.

Kris Cruise: Ricky Valero just stole this match from Dom Harter!

Stephy Auger: Valero did what he had to do to win, just like Annie Zellor will do what she has to do to retain her championship. Just like that, Cruise, a match can end. For Harter’s sake, he better not get too comfortable or else his Grand Slam aspirations can end in a flash, just like this match did.

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

[ Recorded during a previous Commercial Break ]

Standing backstage with a smile that stretches from ear to ear is none other than Spencer Burke.

Spencer Burke: “I’m standing here at the gorilla position backstage hoping to get a word with the returning Chris Bond…”

A random stage hand walks across the screen, and Spencer stops, glaring for a moment, before composing himself and realigning his derailed train of thought.

Spencer Burke: “…a man who was supposed to appear two weeks ago but due to some travel issues, wasn’t able to make his scheduled appearance. Moments ago, Bond, who has been out of action for months made his in-ring return. I’m sure many of Bond’s fans out there will tell you it was a throwback to years before when Bond competed against the likes of Chris Q in a memorable series of matches. His nay-sayers will say that he’s worn down and in many circumstances is just running on instinct…”

The curtain swings back and a very sweaty and physically expelled Chris Bond comes walking towards the back. The Battle Hardened Veteran grabs a bottle of water from one of the tables placed near the entrance area. Bond’s age and wear-and-tear on his body is noticeable as a knee brace is clearly visible over his kneepad. The scar that stretches from shoulder to lower rib is still noticeable over a year later following the infamous Deathmatch. Spencer motions to Bond, who accepts the invitation and heads toward the voice of the FGA.

Spencer Burke: “Chris, what a performance out there. I would be in the arena of those who would say it doesn’t appear that you’ve lost a step and you seem just as hungry and competitive as ever. It’s great to have you back!”

Bond smiles and takes a sip of his water.

Chris Bond: “Thanks Spencer. It’s so goddamn great to be back. I’ve spent too much of last year on the shelf because of Johnny Cannon. My only regret is coming back too late to settle that score myself.”

Spencer nods his head.

Spencer Burke: “Speaking of, a few weeks back you and Chandler Scott got into a bit of a confrontation on Twitter. Anything come of that?”

Bond nods his head.

Chris Bond: “Chandler Scott has always ran his mouth. We’ve pretty much disagreed about everything, and probably always will. It’s pretty safe to say that we will never be friends, especially following his comments weeks and months ago, following the attack on his sister, and even before that. He’s an asshat. Simple as that. A very talented asshat, something I can’t take away from him… but a giant asshat nonetheless.”

Bond shrugs as he takes a sip of water again.

Spencer Burke: “Okay, more recently Savannah Taylor has been very vocal about challenging you to a one-on-one contest, suggesting that the best way to get to into the Pride Title picture is by besting the man who redefined the division and set the record as a two-time champion. Do you have anything to say to her?”

Bond nods his head “No” and takes another sip. Spencer furrows his brow.

Spencer Burke: “Care to expand as to why not? Just last week Savannah Taylor compared the fan’s disappointment with your advertised visit to your career, saying that ‘Chris Bond and disappointment go hand in hand.’ Furthermore, you’ve been very silent on the whole situation, especially on Twitter, where you had no problem laying verbal jabs into Chandler Scott… what gives with Savannah Taylor.”

Bond purses his lips. He takes another sip of water and exhales sharply.

Chris Bond: “Listen. When Savannah Taylor actually does something noteworthy or mentionable, you know, other than playing victim in some weird, twisted cat-and-mouse game with Magnum P.I. or what’s-his-face… then I’ll give her the time of day. Until then, well, I’ve got some boots that need to be re-laced…”

If possible and believable, a loud “OOOOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHHHH” can be heard floating throughout the Matthew Knight Arena. Bond and Spencer both look around, trying to figure out if that was real. Spencer looks at Bond, who has a massive smirk appears upon his face. He takes another sip of water before winking to Spencer and heading off.

Spencer Burke: “Well, there you have it. The returning Chris Bond… just as spirited as ever. Back to you guys.

[FGA Office]

MAIN EVENT
Johnny Karma vs. Savannah Taylor

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.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is your main event of the evening! Introducing first, from Las Vegas, Nevada! Weighing in at 120 pounds… SAVANNAAAAAAAH TAAAAAAAAYLOOOOOOR!!!

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

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: We just saw the video from Chris Bond which was recorded shortly after his match with Izzy Anders. The Battle-Hardened Vet had some strong words for the woman standing in the ring right now.

Stephy Auger: L-O-L. The nerve of this guy. Did you hear what he just said? Did he even know what he said, because he sounds delusional to me. I think Izzy Anders must’ve knocked him silly. It might be time for Chris Bond to re-enter the concussion protocol. But IF Chris Bond had his wits about him and knew what he was saying, then I don’t blame him for being a coward. If I were him, I wouldn’t want to fight Savannah Taylor, either.

The arena lights flash in a myriad of different colours in time with John Bonham's quite remarkably epic drum intro that is filling the arena, and just as it reaches a crescendo Cherry Baum emerges at the top of the ramp, standing to one side to introduce the man they call Johnny Karma, to the Frontier Wrestling Arts fanbase - at which point he walks out onto the ramp before coming to a halt and uses a couple of fingers to blow a kiss to the fans, pausing to hold his arm in the air for a couple of seconds to signal his arrival

As he and Cherry begin to walk down the ramp, Karma unfastens the cuffs of his ring jacket while also talking some last minute preparation with Cherry as they get ever closer to the ring.

J.A. Aldridge: And her opponent, being accompanied to the ring by Cherry Baum! Weighing in at 230 pounds… JOOOOOOOHNNYYYYYY KAAAAAAAAARMAAAAAA!!!

As the pair reach ringside, Cherry quickly climbs onto the ring apron and sits on the middle rope to hold it open, as Karma climbs the ring steps and walks along the apron, turning to face His audience and slowly raising an arm before raising his index finger to let everyone know that He is #1, before he steps through the ropes into His ring.

Once inside His ring, Karma unzips his ring jacket before he climbs onto the nearest turnbuckle and holds his arms out wide to tell the crowd he's set foot in His ring once again

If it keeps on rainin', levee's goin' to break
If it keeps on rainin', levee's goin' to break
When The Levee Breaks I'll have no place to stay

Once he climbs down from the turnbuckles, Karma crosses the ring and climbs onto the opposite turnbuckle to salute His followers

Mean old levee taught me to weep and moan
Mean old levee taught me to weep and moan
It's got what it takes to make a mountain man leave his home
Oh well, oh well, oh well

Climbing down once again, Karma saunters towards the centre of the ring once again uses a couple of fingers to blow a kiss to the crowd before raising his arm high above his head with those two fingers still extended, and he holds the post for a few seconds before the start of the match.

Kris Cruise: You’ve got to wonder if Izzy Anders is on Karma’s mind right now. Karma knows that he can’t take someone the caliber of Savannah Taylor lightly. But then there’s the looming presence of Izzy Anders. What if she strikes Cherry again? What if she uses that bat?

The bell sounds as Karma and Taylor circle the ring before locking up. After jockeying for position, Karma places Taylor in a side headlock. After performing a standing switch and transitioning into a hammerlock from behind, Karma spins Taylor around and goes for Instant Karma (hammerlock spun into a DDT). But Taylor is quick to shove Karma away from her.

Kris Cruise: She nearly got caught there!

The two grapplers circle the ring. After sizing each other up, they head towards the center of the ring and go for a lock up. But Taylor ducks under, goes behind Karma and applies a waist lock from behind. After a back elbow breaks the waist lock, Karma performs another standing switch. After applying a rear wrist clutch from behind, he then spins Taylor around and throws out Hard Times. But Taylor rolls underneath it and slips to the outside.

Kris Cruise: Karma nearly got her again, Stephy!

While Taylor collects herself on the outside, Karma heads over towards the ropes and holds his thumb & index finger about an inch apart from each other. Taylor turns and walks away from Karma before rounding one of the ring post. She hops back up onto the apron and steps back inside.

Taylor begins to circle the ring while Karma keeps his eyes locked on her. She then sizes Karma up before making her way over towards him. The two then engage in a collar & elbow tie-up. After jockeying for position, Karma uses his strength advantage to move Taylor across the ring and into the corner. The ref then gives them until the count of five to break it up.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Both grapplers make a clean break. Karma then quickly traps Taylor is a side headlock. Taylor then takes Karma, presses him against the nearby ropes and then shoves him off of her and into the far ropes. When Karma returns, he knocks Taylor down with a running shoulder block. He then heads into a nearby set of ropes. When Karma returns, Taylor turns over onto her stomach. Karma then hops over her before running into the far ropes. When Karma returns, Taylor pops up to her feet and leapfrogs over Karma. Karma then continues to run into the ropes. When Karma comes back, the crowd boo when Taylor knocks him down with a Lou Thesz Press. She then mounts herself on top of Karma and fires off a series of short-range punches to the face.

Taylor picks up Karma, brings him into the corner and slams him face-first into the top turnbuckle. After a series of knife edge chops, Taylor takes Karma and whips him into the far corner. She then runs across the ring, leaps into the air and connects with a hesitation dropkick that sends Karma crumbling from out of the corner.

After Karma rolls to the outside, Taylor takes off into the far ropes. When Taylor returns, she goes for a baseball slide. But Karma side steps and slides back into the ring. Taylor then hops back up onto the apron, but she’s quickly knocked off by an NYC Uppercut. As Taylor gets up on the outside, Karma runs into the far ropes. When Karma comes back, he goes for This Is For The Front Row (baseball slide clothesline). But Taylor side steps and slides back in. Karma then hops up onto the apron, but he quickly gets knocked off by a roundhouse kick from Taylor.

Karma tries to shake off the cobwebs as Taylor steps out onto the apron. Once Karma returns to his feet and turns around, Taylor knocks him down with an Asai Moonsault.

Kris Cruise: The high risk move pays off for Savannah Taylor has she knocks down Johnny Karma!

Taylor picks up Karma and rolls him back inside. She then slides back in before making the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Karma kicks out.

Taylor picks up Karma, presses him against the ropes and delivers another series of knife edge chops before sending him into the far ropes. When Karma returns, Taylor brings him down with a drop toe hold. Taylor quickly maneuvers across Karma’s back and applies a grounded side headlock. Karma can be heard groaning as Taylor cinches in the hold. The ref asks Karma if he wants to give up. But Karma refuses. After battling back to his feet, Karma takes Taylor and shoves her off of him and into the ropes. When Taylor returns, she slides through Karma’s legs. When Karma turns around, Taylor throws out another roundhouse kick. But Karma ducks. He then quickly grabs her from behind, spins her around and throws out Hard Times. But Taylor ducks and counters with a floatover DDT to boos from the crowd. She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Karma kicks out.

Taylor picks up Karma and rocks him with a right hand before sending him into the corner with an irish whip. Taylor charges into the corner. But Karma’s able to duck the oncoming attack and dump her over the top rope…

… but Taylor lands safely on her feet on the apron. When Karma turns around, she slides through Karma’s legs. When Karma turns around, Taylor doubles him over with a kick to the midsection before planting him with a DDT. She turns over and makes the cover.

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

Kris Cruise: Taylor hits Karma with another DDT. But it only gets two. Taylor’s looking to make the most out of this main event opportunity.

Stephy Auger: They don’t just put anyone into this spot, Cruise. Taylor’s been given the opportunity not only to showcase herself in the main event, but to get arguably the biggest win of her FGA career. She’s knows what’s at stake and she’s going for it.

Taylor picks up Karma, brings him into the corner and slams him face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning Karma around, Taylor steps back and chokes him using her foot. The ref then gives her until the count of five to break the choke.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Taylor lets go. She then takes Karma and goes for an irish whip. But Karma reverses, sending her into the opposite corner. Karma then runs across the ring to attack. But Taylor hoists herself up onto the middle ropes and counters with a front kick. As Karma stumbles back, Taylor leaps off for a crossbody. But Karma counters with a snap powerslam. He hooks the leg.

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

Kris Cruise: Good counter thee by Karma.

Stephy Auger: Yeah, but can he follow up?

Karma picks up Taylor and whips her into the ropes. When Taylor returns, Karma sets up for a back body drop. But Taylor counters with a kick to the face. As Karma stumbles back, Taylor turns and runs back into the ropes. When she returns, she throws out a yakuza kick. But Karma catches her foot. After swinging her leg away from him, Karma grabs Taylor from behind, runs, leaps over the top rope and brings her down with Macho Karma across the top rope. While Taylor stumbles back, Karma hops up onto the apron, scales to the top ropes, jumps off and knocks her down with a diving double ax handle smash. He makes the cover.

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

Karma picks up Taylor, moves her into the corner and delivers a series of stinging chops that echo throughout the arena. He then takes Taylor, brings her from out of the corner and whips her into the far ropes. When Taylor returns, Karma scoops her up from the side and delivers a backbreaker. But instead of letting go, Karma keeps her held across his knee. He then stands up, walks over to the side of the ring and tosses Taylor through the ropes and to the floor.

Kris Cruise: Get Out Of My Ring! That what he just told her with that move, Stephy!

As Taylor slowly pulls herself up using the edge of the apron, Karma runs into the ropes. When Karma returns, the crowd cheer when he knocks her down with This Is For The Front Row. Karma picks Taylor up, rolls her back inside, rolls himself back in, drags her away from the ropes and makes the cover.

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

Kris Cruise: Good ring presence there by Karma to drag her away from the ropes and make her expend more energy by getting her shoulder up.

Karma picks up Taylor and whips her into the ropes. When Taylor returns, Karma knocks her down with a running high knee. He then heads into the ropes before coming back and following up with a jumping knee drop. After dragging Taylor into position, he makes his way into the corner. Karma climbs up onto the middle ropes, jumps off and connects with a second rope fist drop. He makes the cover.

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

Kris Cruise: Karma’s got this match back under control. But to her credit, Taylor’s continuing to avoid that dreaded three count.

Karma picks up Taylor and delivers another blistering chop before bringing her down with a snapmare takeover. He then takes a few steps back before running forward and delivering a rolling neck snap. He makes the cover.

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

Karma picks up Taylor and connects with an NYC Uppercut that sends her stumbling back into the ropes. As Karma approaches, Taylor throws out a kick to the midsection. After a second kick to the midsection, Taylor takes Karma and tosses him through the ropes and out onto the apron. As Karma pulls himself up using the ropes, Taylor runs over, slides through his legs to the outside and yanks him hard off the apron. Karma smacks his face hard against the edge of the apron on the way down.

Kris Cruise: My goodness! Did you hear how hard Karma’s face smacked against the edge of the apron!?

Stephy Auger: Well, that’s certainly one way to shut Karma up.

Taylor picks up Karma, grabs him from the side and brings him down with Blonde Ambition (forward russian legsweep) on the floor. The crowd continue to boo as she picks up Karma and rolls him back inside. After rolling herself back in, she makes the cover.

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

Karma gets his foot on the bottom rope.

Kris Cruise: Good ring awareness there by Karma to get his foot on the ropes. I’m surprised he even knows where he is after smacking his face against the apron, then being driven face-first onto the floor with the Blonde Ambition from Taylor.

Taylor picks up Karma and whips him into the corner. After running into the corner and connecting with a clothesline, she goes for a running bulldog from out of the corner. But Karma shoves her off of him and into the ropes. When Taylor returns, the crowd roars with boos when she flattens him with a yakuza kick. She drops down and makes the cover.

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

Karma gets his shoulder up.

Taylor picks up Karma, brings him into the corner and sends him slumping down with a barrage of short-range elbow smashes. She then runs into the opposite corner, comes back across the ring and connects with a running hip strike to the face. Taylor drags Karma from out of the corner and makes the cover.

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

Karma gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Cherry can be seen on the outside trying to get this crowd to rally behind Karma. But does Karma have it in him come back and win this?

Taylor picks up Karma and doubles him over with a knee strike to the midsection. After placing him in a headlock, Taylor runs across the ring and delivers a bulldog. But instead of going for the cover, she rolls out onto the apron.

Kris Cruise: What’s this?

Taylor pulls herself up on the apron and scales to the top turnbuckle. She then gauges the distance before leaping off and crashing across Karma’s back with a Frog Splash. The crowd boos as she pushes him over and makes the cover.

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

The crowd cheers when Karma gets his shoulder up.

Taylor sits up Karma and places him in a sleeper hold.

Stephy Auger: There we go. She’s already had Karma rocked a few times. But she’s not going to miss her chance to put him away right here.

The ref gets down and asks Karma if he wants to give up. But Karma refuses. Cherry Baum can be seen slapping the canvas as she tries to give Karma some words of encouragement.

Stephy Auger: Do you hear her, Cruise? She’s telling Karma to quit. Smart girl!

Kris Cruise: She is not!

Members of the crowd can be seen slowly turning away from the ring and talking amongst themselves as they seen something off to their right. The camera then cuts off to see Izzy Anders sauntering nonchalantly through the curtain.

Kris Cruise: What the hell is she doing out here!?

Stephy Auger: Whaaaaaat? She’s just getting a close look, that’s all! She hasn’t hurt anybody.

Kris Cruise: Tell that to Cherry Baum! The last time Anders was even remotely close to her, she laid Cherry out!

Stephy Auger: Well, that’s Cherry’s fault for being in the way.

Anders stays on the ramp as Taylor cinches in the hold. Back in the ring, the ref checks with Karma and asks if he wants to give up. But again, Karma refuses. He slowly begins to fight his way out of the hold as the the chants get louder and louder…

Crowd: KARMA!!! KARMA!!! KARMA!!! KARMA!!!

Taylor can be seen shaking her head in disbelief as Karma turns over onto his knees.

Stephy Auger: No! No!! NO!!! He’s supposed to stay down!

Kris Cruise: Karma’s not staying down! He’s fighting back!

After battling back to his feet, Karma nails her with four elbows to the midsection. Once the hold is broken, Karma turns and motions towards the ropes. But Taylor quickly turns him around and clocks him with a roundhouse kick.

Stephy Auger: Hello!

After Karma drops down to one knee, Taylor heads into the ropes. When she returns, the crowd continue to boo as she flattens Karma with a Shining Wizard. She makes the cover.

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

The crowd cheers when Karma gets his shoulder up.

Taylor picks up Karma and goes for an irish whip. But Karma reverses, sending her into the ropes. When Taylor returns, Karma knocks her down with a running NYC Uppercut. The crowd continue to cheer as Karma runs back over and knocks her down with another NYC Uppercut. After Taylor gets back up, Karma rattles off three snapping jabs before knocking her down with a right hook.

Kris Cruise: Taylor just got dropped with Sugar Ray Karma! Now he’s going for the cover!

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

Karma picks up Taylor and goes for an irish whip. But Taylor reverses, sending Karma into the ropes. When Karma returns, Taylor sets up for a back body drop. But Karma stops and counters with the Bum Trip (shoulder neckbreaker). He makes the cover.

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

Taylor gets her shoulder up.

Karma picks up Taylor, delivers an irish whip, follows her into the corner and sends her slumping down with another NYC Uppercut. After stepping over towards the center of the ring, Karma turns around, runs back into the corner and goes for the Kodak Moment (rope-assisted corner dropkick). But Taylor gets her leg up, hitting Karma right between the legs. The crowd boos as Karma curls up and rolls himself towards the center of the ring.

While Karma is still down, Taylor slowly pulls herself up in the corner. As a hunched over Karma slowly gets up off the canvas, Taylor runs from out of the corner and brings him down with Welcome to Sin City (corkscrew neckbreaker). The crowd boos as she makes the cover.

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

The crowd cheers when Karma gets his shoulder up.

Taylor picks up Karma and whips him into the ropes. When Karma returns, Taylor throws out the Desert Rose (spinning backfist). But Karma ducks. When Taylor turns around…

*THWACK!*

Kris Cruise: Check Your Chiclets!

While Taylor is sprawled out on the canvas, Karma steps out onto the apron, scales to the top turnbuckle, leaps off and connects with a flying elbow drop to an explosion of cheers.

Kris Cruise: From The Stars Above!

Karma picks up Taylor and pushes her head down to set up for Dazed, Confused and All Messed Up. But he quickly pushes her to the side once he sees Anders motioning towards Cherry Baum

Kris Cruise: What the hell is she doing!? Get away from her!

As Karma rushes over towards the ropes, Anders quickly steps back and puts her hands up defensively before walking backwards up the aisle.

Kris Cruise: Izzy Anders was about to go after Cherry again!

Stephy Auger: You don’t know that!

When Karma turns around…

*THWACK!*

Stephy Auger: Desert Rose from Savannah Taylor!

Anders smirks as Taylor picks up Karma, hooks her leg around one of his arms and plants him with a Scissored DDT!

Stephy Auger: Siren Song! That’s all she wrote, Cruise

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

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

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

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

Kris Cruise: Savannah Taylor picks up the win. However, we’ve got to note that the win was aided by Izzy Anders?

Stephy Auger: Oh, do we? I don’t remember Savannah Taylor asking for Izzy’s help. All I saw was Karma squandering an opportunity because he thought Cherry was in trouble. Taylor was right. He should’ve left Cherry at home a long time ago. If he does that, maybe he gets the win tonight. Maybe not. But one things for sure: Cherry wouldn’t have gotten decked two weeks ago.

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

02.18.17
Rogers Arena
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Only on PAY-PER-VIEW!

[FGA Office]

The camera focuses in as Spencer Burke is standing in the middle of the ring, sharing it with a table, and the canvas is lined with carpet. The fans around the arena are on their feet, and start to cheer when they realize they’re back on the air and what Spencer’s getting to.

Spencer Burke: Ladies and gentlemen of Eugene, Oregon… Grapple Kingdom is shaping up to be a star stunning, big fight feel, and overall amazing card coming up on the 18th of February. What gets bigger than FGA World Champion versus FGA World Champion in a match that will decide the Undisputed World Champion for this company. A fight that has never happened, even though both of the recognized champions have been in several of the same promotions across the country. A match that has never before happened in the history of this sport and has been a long time waiting. Cordelia Stevenson versus Zero McHannon in the main event that change the course of Frontier Grappling Arts as we know it, and finally define who is ultimately the one true FGA World Champion. At Grapple Kingdom will we will see a first of many things, but a last leg of someone’s title reign. Allow me to introduce to you the two stars that will be doing us those honors at the upcoming pay per view, and ushering us into the new year of 2017 with their own paths… This is the contract signing to see who is the Undisputed FGA World Champion at Grapple Kingdom.

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 FGA World Champion Cordelia Stevenson emerges from the mist. The crowd is buzzing with anticipation as the champ stops atop the ramp, her demeanor nowhere near as playful as they’re used to. She doesn’t stop atop the ramp, instead she marches straight down towards the ring, reaching her hand out and slapping the hands of her supporters along the way. She reaches the ring and slides straight in, foregoing the usual dancing and banter with the fans, and looking to get straight to business. Once in the ring though, she does walk towards the turnbuckles, and climbs up, hoisting her title into the air to a thunderous ovation from the crowd. She hops down as her music fades out, but the chants of her name can be heard ringing all throughout the arena. She paces around the ring, her RBF in full effect as Spencer moves closer towards her with the microphone.

Spencer Burke: Your FGA World Champion, ladies and gentleman!

The crowd roars its approval once again before finally dying down a bit.

Spencer Burke: Cordelia… here we are, just moments away from this monumental contract signing and I must ask, what went through your head last week when the board made its announcement that Zero McHannon would also be recognized as the FGA World Champion and that you two would meet in a unification bout at Grapple Kingdom?

The crowd boos at the mentioning of Zero still being recognized as the FGA World Champion. Cordy motions out to them, telling Spencer to gauge their reaction.

Cordelia Stevenson: You hear that, Spencer? You hear them? Their sentiments are mine exactly. What went through my mind as I heard that announcement?

She pauses for a split second before shaking her head.

Cordelia Stevenson: A numbing feeling of disrespect that I truly could not comprehend. That is what went through my mind, and that is something I’m still trying to process right now as I stand here in this very ring, because for the life of me… I just can’t understand it. You know me, Spencer. I’ve always been a straight shooter. I’ve never held my tongue, and I won’t start doing it now. Knowing that Zero McHannon can disrespect this company the way that he did… knowing that he can walk out on this company the way that he did… and knowing that he can just be accepted back with such open arms without any real repercussions? It makes me sick to be honest. But even more than that Spencer, I felt undermined. I felt as if the board gave Zero’s words and sentiments merit with their actions.

Her eyes narrow a bit as she sneers.

Cordelia Stevenson: And that stung. It honestly felt like a slap in the face, but you know what? I understand that’s the business, and now here we are; Zero McHannon versus Cordelia Stevenson for the FGA World Championship. But rest assured that at Grapple Kingdom, I’m not leaving any doubts.

She points out to the crowd.

Cordelia Stevenson: These people out here know who the true FGA World Champion is, and at the Rogers Arena… I’ll be making Zero McHannon and the FGA board aware of that as well.

She turns and looks directly into the camera, a fire burning in her eyes and her words filled with venom as she utters her famous catchphrase.

Cordelia Stevenson: Get familiar!

"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.

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.

McHannon jumps down from the turnbuckle and stares over in Cordy’s direction. Zero walks over to the table that is between them and grabs the microphone, still no contract on the table as it’s still in Spencer’s hand. The crowd is still in a frenzy seeing Stevenson and McHannon standing at opposite ends, but dies out a little when Zero raises the microphone. Spencer steps towards the table.

Spencer Burke: And the man who is also recognized as the FGA World Champion from our board… Zero McHannon.

Zero was about to say something, but the crowd goes into a series of boos at the other champion. McHannon chews on his jaw some, lets the fans get it out of their system, then narrows his eyes towards Cordy.

Zero McHannon: You hear that, Cordy? STILL recognized as YOOOUUUUURRRR FGA World Champion… Me. And you can’t understand it. You can’t wrap it around that big ass head of yours why in the hell this company would still call me their world champion after packing my bags and taking a walk. It’s all very simple, though. It’s right in front of your eyes and you can’t see it. It’s literally standing right in front of you… Flip your hair back some, Cordy, so you can get a good look.

He holds out his arms as the crowd goes into more hate for the man, letting the FGA World Championship around his waist shine towards Stevenson.

Zero McHannon: Are you here to butter up to the fans some more, or are you here to get to business? I’m still the FGA World Champion because of everything I’ve done since 2015, wake the f*ck up. I had to make my own way to be a three time champ. I had to bust my ass to keep Chandler down. I scratched and clawed the entire damn way while people like you, and the Beastie Boys in the back, wanted to see me fail. Wrestler of the year. I’ve carried pay per views while you were carrying a broken ankle. I was never beat…

Zero pauses for a second then raises the mic again.

Zero McHannon: I’m the best damn wrestler in this company. That’s why I’m still seen as the FGA World Champion, and why you should feel undermined. The board knows it and can’t deny it. The fans have to swallow it and admit it, even if they don’t like it. The roster in the back? They’ll never admit it, but they already know who’s going to be raising their hand after a match with me and who isn’t. Hell, Spencer knows it. Don’t you Spencer?

McHannon looks over to Spencer, who avoids eye contact and looks down to the mat, but slowly nods his head to agree with Zero.

Zero McHannon: And most importantly, you know it too.

He laughs in Cordy’s direction and steps backwards to lean against the ropes.

Zero McHannon: Here’s a little blast from the past for you. You think I didn’t see you say a couple years back that I was one of the most underrated wrestlers? That’s because you already knew that I could walk into this ring and beat anyone put in front of me. While you were busy running around with Star, dressing like you’re standing on the corner, I was the one hitting the gym every morning and busting my ass to accomplish what I wanted. I had a goal in PDW. I had a goal in FGA. I got what I wanted. You? You always had some of the same goals that I did, but when the time came? You flopped around the ring like a fish out of water.

His eyes narrow some more.

Zero McHannon: Yeah, I’m going there. You kiss everyone’s ass for them to the same in return. You’ve got a system down and you always have. You pretend to be someone’s friend, instead of saying what you really want to say. No matter if it’s Jimmy Page… Chandler Scott… Annie Zellor… WHOEVER! You have them all on a string. You entertain them, and they do the same. All the support in the world backing you, and helping push you forward to BE SOMETHING…. But it’s never enough. Is it? It never has been. For years. All that support just makes one of your ankle buckle with the pressure. And when you go down with an injury? The people move right on and find someone else to cheer for. They find a new favorite and buy all their sh*t. And yeah, when the almighty Cordy Stevenson comes back from another fighting injury, the fans jump right to their feet once again. You’re a flop, Cordy. You’ve always been a flop.

McHannon steps forward from the ropes.

Zero McHannon: And it eats you alive knowing that since our days in PDW, I’m the one that actually flourished and did a lot more with his career than you could ever think of. Years of fighting to the top, just so someone could put you right back down at the bottom again. And for what? Hope? Determination? Pride? What was it all for, Cordy? Here you are with that pretty little fake belt, and I’m the one that still gets noticed as the FGA World Champion. I’m the one that people can’t deny as one of the best athletes, and hell….

Zero yells at the top of his lungs towards the audience.

Zero McHannon: Thirty-One years old and I’m just now hitting MY PRIMMMMMMMMEEEEEE!

The crowd jumps to their feet in boos and jeers while Zero turns back to Cordy.

Zero McHannon: It was all a slap in the face, and it was meant to be taken as one, because reality and the truth always seems to settle in after a bit… You had your shot and you took it. A free throw. A lay-up.

McHannon takes a couple steps backwards.

Zero McHannon: Step onto the other side of the court where the real players throw down…. See what happens to you when it’s gametime. You’ll go back to realizing that you’re NOT SH*T, just like it has been proven sooooooooo many times before. Cordy Stevenson. Zero McHannon. First time EVER! And that’s because we’ve always been on different levels throughout our careers. It’s never been on an even scale. And I’m going to prove that… Why you might’ve been everything everyone ever wanted in Platinum Dynasty Wrestling, but when it comes to Frontier Grappling Arts?

He leans across the table.

Zero McHannon: It’s all about me… And always will be.

Cordy glares at him and mouths the words are you done. Zero quips back with something that isn’t quite audible but it causes Cordy to smirk.

Cordelia Stevenson: Thirty-One years old and you’re just NOW hitting your prime. Do you know how ridiculous that sounds? Sitting here and admitting it took you longer than a decade to finally become something more than a mediocre wrestler…

She mockingly applauds for him.

Cordelia Stevenson: Bravo, Zero. I salute you. At least you had the balls to stick it out. Most people wouldn’t have. But let me ask you a question. Where were you when you were MY age? Huh? Here you are, thirty-one years old and you’ve finally… FINALLY elevated yourself to a status deemed noteworthy. But where were you… when you were MY age? Twenty-six years old and look at all that I have accomplished, Zero. Were you a World Champion by the age of twenty-five? Were you a Golden Crown winner? As much as you try to discredit me, Zero… as much as you try to downplay me… let’s keep it a buck here, If you put our careers on parallel paths, anyone can see I’m miles ahead of where you were when you were my age. You love to bring up PDW… the very first company I worked for. It’s as if you’re stuck there. It’s as if you still see me as that same naive young girl that entered the business. You think you’re the only one that works hard? I could put down any amount of money that I work twice as hard as you or anyone else. Chances are that’s a good reason I was able to obtain just as much if not more success than you in like a quarter of the time. You think it’s easy bouncing back from a fractured ankle, not once, but twice? You think it’s easy to stay as consistent as I have over the years? I haven’t grown since PDW? I haven’t flourished since the fold of that company? Are you blind? Have you not paid attention to the things I’ve done in not only this company, but in the business over the course of the past few years? The Lion’s Cup? The Gold Rush Rumble? One that YOU were even in might I add… Dynamic Duos? Queen of the Deathmatch? Hell, up until last week, I was the first double champion that this company had ever seen… well until a certain someone felt the need to make his presence known and cost Dan and I the FGA World Tag titles.

She glowers at Zero as the crowd rains down a chorus of boos.

Cordelia Stevenson: Here you are harping over PDW; reminiscing over the days where you were nothing more than a diet lite version of Brandon Banks…. You weren’t even your own man until recently, and that wasn’t until after Lyle Risky and The Reapers in Pride over in HKW put you out of commission and sent you on your own Drake-inspired quest for self identity and purpose that took you halfway across the world and lasted over a year, right Mako?

She places extra emphasis on the name, knowing his disdain for it. Zero’s face turns sour.

Cordelia Stevenson: The thing about you, Zero? You’ve always been the most consistent, inconsistent person I’ve ever met, but truthfully, you just do a masterful job at hiding how much of an underachiever you truly are. I remember when you first came in to PDW. I remember how you struggled to make a name for yourself. I remember how you struggled to stand out from the crowd. I remember you relentlessly trying over and over again to become the Bloodshed champion. I remember Dom Harter crushing your dreams on more than one occasion. I remember you chasing that title for damn near, what was it? Nine months or more? About a year? So funny, that you overcoming your failures are a testament to how hard you worked, but me overcoming mine?

She glances down at the FGA World Championship on her shoulder.

Cordelia Stevenson: Well, I get no credit for that, right?It doesn’t fit the narrative you’re trying to tell. You’re the king of faulty and misleading perceptions, you know that? The Pariah of the Half truth. Three World title reigns! Nothing spectacular about ANY of them. One successful defense over the course of all three. You can try to spin reality however you want to Zero, but the reality of the situation doesn’t change at all. You always love to speak of the pay per views you carried, yet always fail to point out that you lost damn near half of them. Oh yeah… I remember you getting knocked out by Johnny Cannon. The concussive symptoms must have erased that from your memory banks though, correct? I also remember someone entering this company with a world of hype, making a massive statement in the Gold Rush Rumble by setting the eliminations record and then… what? Two or three months before you even won a match? But let you tell it, you’ve been the most dominant thing in this company since you set foot in it.

She shakes her head.

Cordelia Stevenson: Negative, McHannon. And as much as you love to talk about this ankle of mine, the truth is you only are where you are… because of this ankle; because of Chandler Scott’s shoulder. If we hadn’t have gotten injured… do you really think you would have catapulted the way that you did? Because after being dominated by Jimmy Page the way that you were… did you really think you deserved a spot in that little round robin tournament for the number one contendership? But of course in the little narrative that you like to spin, the facts are all but thrown out of the window. Well at Grapple Kingdom, you’re going to come face to face with some facts that you cannot ignore. You’re going to come face to face with some truths that you can’t simply disregard. I don’t need more than a decade in the game to finally reach my prime. I don’t even care if you are in your prime, because even at your best… you are not… better… than me. Deep down, I know what the core issue is here Zero. You’re jealous that I rose through the ranks so quickly. Listen to the things you say… “you were the one everyone wanted.” You were mad because it was never you. Years and years dedicated to the craft and there you were, getting overlooked by the relative newcomer. And here we are, years down the road and you’re still carrying that chip on your damn shoulder. Don’t bear the weight of that burden at Grapple Kingdom, McHannon… because I promise, the weight of disappointment will be far more than enough for you to bear.

She leans forward now, staring him directly in the eyes.

Cordelia Stevenson: Now are we signing the damn thing or not?

Zero looks past Cordy, like he’s trying to see her back, then straightens back up.

Zero McHannon: Sorry. It’s weird seeing you talk without the strings being pulled behind you. It’s a bit remarkable if you ask me.

McHannon laughs at his own joke, but his face soon turns to stone.

Zero McHannon: You’re damn right I’m bringing up the past, because it actually means something. Not all of us go through life, coming up short every step of the way, and try our best to forget that it happened. I remember every moment I can from NIWF. WRW. THW. PDW. EXODUS Pro. Those places are a good reason for why I’m the one standing here today, and not someone else. BUT!

He holds up a finger to Cordy.

Zero McHannon: I mainly remember it because for years all I ever wanted was to be placed into the same ring with you… I made a habit out of beating the VERY BEST the wrestling world has to offer me. People thought TJ Jones was amazing and I rocked that mother f*cker. Twice! The amazing V? He could never handle me in the ring. Twice… Chandler Scott. Jimmy Page. Tony Carmine. Johnny Karma and Johnny Cannon. Tony Bloodbath. The Franchise Killer. Kris Destiny. Cindy Parker. Dom Harter. Kucci. Zack Lifer. Fiona Collins. Magnus Gunner. Chris Strike. The list goes on… and on… and on…

McHannon looks down at the mat and gets lost in his thoughts for a moment.

Zero McHannon: All those names, but there’s no “Cordy Stevenson”. That’s what bothers me. Drives me. Pushes me. Every time I’m working out or just thinking about wrestling in general, it always pops up in my head. It’s an obsession. Always has been, always will be. I’m obsessed with being the absolute best… that’s why I remember. That’s why you forget. Move on. Brush it behind you and look forward, because you’ve never reached the areas I have to know what it’s really like.

He pauses for a moment, but keeps his eyes dead set on Cordy.

Zero McHannon: QUIT TALKING LIKE YOU ACTUALLY DESERVE THAT CHAMPIONSHIP!

He has to reel back some and take a deep breath.

Zero McHannon: Welcome to FGA where you’re not all buddy buddy with the owner, Star. Leonard T. Asherford a little too old for our undercover thirst trap? Is his ass not big enough for you to give a like on twitter or comment with heart eyes? The days where you could get away with f*cking Dayshia Raye just to make a name for yourself is OVER. I wouldn’t even be surprised if you’re still scissor screwing her now that her and Brandon have cut ties. Once upon a time you could get away with making a career by forming a tag team with someone, because you coming up short for world championship was a daily routine… that once upon a time is over now that you have to do everything on your own. Kerry Windsor isn’t here anymore to hold your hand and walk you through the tough steps in life. A lot of people tried to sail their boats from the company, coming over to FGA, and kickstart their careers again, but who was actually able to do it? Me… years later. Something that you tried so hard… busted your ass… fought like a son of a b*tch to accomplish… But yet, it seems that football isn’t the only game about inches. You don’t need a ruler to know that you never had what it took to make it to the very end.

Another pause from Zero as he starts to pace the ring.

Zero McHannon: You want to talk about me rising to the top because you and Chandler were sidelined… Forgetting that Chandler Scotty is my own personal b*tch when it comes to this sport. You love to eat up the competition you faced through that tournament, like you’ve done many times before, but who wasn’t in it, Cordy? Chandler or Zero McHannon. The two people who have defined this company over the past two years, no matter how different our reigns may be. I didn’t need the same story as Chandler when it came to the FGA World Championship… I had one of my own. One that wasn’t the same old, same old. One that I didn’t ever want to look like anything you put your hands on either. It’s my own. Just like you have your own, Cordy, but how great is it, really? Talk about my defenses when you were happy enough sliding under the radar to put your belt on the line at Final Frontier… Ironically, the place where both of us got our starts as the world champion, if that’s what you really want to call yourself.

McHannon shakes his head.

Zero McHannon: You’re a hypocrite. I just wish you had the nips to admit it. God’s gift to Earth. His own little personal angel. The person who is looked up to in life, but you’re no saint. You’re a cancer. Master manipulator. The true villain in this book. If you were a character in Batman, you’d be Two Face.

He runs a hand down his beard.

Zero McHannon: Difference between us is that I can actually admit that to myself and everyone else, you sneaky little sh*t. Just because you carry yourself in the shadows doesn’t mean that it eventually won’t come to light. You hold this image of yourself in front of the world, and Jesus Christ, do you have it down. You have that sh*t down to an art. But in reality? You’re no better than the drugged up homeless version of Annie giving dumpster blowjobs. You’re in this for the name and the fame, because what would your life be without everyone there to sniff your panties after a thirty minute wrestling match? What would your life be if there wasn’t plenty of girls running around half naked for you to drool over? What would your life be without relationship drama, texting your so-called best friends, and a girls night on the town with the most expensive and most revealing dress you could find?

His eyes narrow as he walks over to the table.

Zero McHannon: You’re no better than the other filth that runs around this damn sport. Give me the contract Spencer. Let’s make this official.

Spencer looks over to Zero, then to Cordy, but raises the microphone.

Spencer Burke: Well… there was an addition to the contract that I was supposed to present to you guys, but you’ve been going at each other’s necks. You see… Um… The contract now has a new stipulation…---

Zero and Cordy's attention quickly shift towards the entrance area as the sound of an organ plays throughout the arena. They both look at each other in confusion. As "Perfect Strangers" kicks in, the crowd begins to get amped up at the sound of the familiar theme ringing throughout the arena. At the 30 second mark, Chandler Scott makes his way through the curtain to a thunderous ovation from the crowd. Chandler swaggers his way down the aisle with both index fingers in the air. He shows love to a couple fans in the front row and high fives them. But he does so without ever taking his eyes off the ring. When he reaches the end of the aisle, he scans the crowd before heading over and walking up the steps. While on the apron, Chandler's eyes shift between the two World Champions before stepping through the ropes. Now inside the ring, Chandler motions for Spencer Burke to hand him a mic.

Burke heads over towards Chandler and hands over a mic. "Perfect Strangers" dies down, but the "CHANDLER!" chants quickly fill the arena. Chandler looks around and smirks before motioning for the crowd to simmer down.

Chandler Scott: Well... well... well. Look at what we've got here. It's the contract signing between FGA's two World Champions. Some are calling this the most anticipated match of the year. Two World Champions walk in. One undisputed Champion walks out. That's the tagline, right?

Chandler eyes shift between the two champs as he rubs his chin.

Chandler Scott: Yeah, about that...

Chandler smirks as the crowd begin to murmur amongst itself. Cordy looks on curiously as she wonders what's about to come out of Chandler's mouth next. McHannon, however, looks to be extremely agitated by Chandler's presence. The sudden chants of "TRIPLE THREAT!" aren't exactly calming his nerves, either. Chandler shakes his head as he puts his hand up.

Chandler Scott: I can see the steam coming out of your ears already. But don't worry, McHannon. This isn't about to be made into a Triple Threat.

The announcement is quickly met with some boos from the crowd.

Chandler Scott: However, I am out here to delivering the following…

Pause.

Chandler Scott: You know, there was a certain someone walking around backstage at last week's Vertigo show. Everyone was buzzing about FGA's Australia debut and about the huge match that's happening between the two of you at Grapple Kingdom. And as this man was walking around backstage, he just so happened to stop right outside the office of the FGA Officials. Call it overhearing, call it eavesdropping, call it what you will. But the word going around was that they weren't happy with the conclusion of the World Tag Team Title Match last week. They weren't happy with the fact that an outside force caused Status Quo to lose their championship to the Usual Suspects.

The crowd responds with heavy boos after being reminding of the screwjob finish. They then quickly shift into an "ASSHOLE!" chant directed at McHannon. Chandler then smirks as he looks over at Zero.

Chandler Scott: They're talking about you, by the way. Just figured I'd let you know.

Chandler winks at Zero. Zero, meanwhile, gives Chandler a look that... let's just say that if looks could kill, Chandler would be six feet under right now.

Chandler Scott: But getting back on track, there was definitely a feeling of uneasiness about this match happening at Grapple Kingdom. This is suppose to be one of the biggest matches in company history! Never before in the history of FGA have there been two World Champions! This is suppose to be the war that settles the score and determines one undisputed champion! The last thing they wanted was outside interference affecting this main event, just like outside interference affected last week's main event. So that's when the conversation shifted... to a special guest referee...

Chandler begins pacing back and forth.

Chandler Scott: ... and that's when this certain someone interjected himself into the conversation.

The crowd once again begin to speculate amongst themselves.

Chandler Scott: He told Leonard T. Asherman and every other suit in the room that if all they wanted was for someone to count to three, then they could pick anyone out of the locker room. But for this match, they needed someone with some backbone. They needed someone that wasn't going to be intimidated by FGA's two World Champions. They needed someone that was going to rise to the occasion and not shy away from this big moment. He told them what they needed was someone that will lay down the law and make sure that this one on one match stays exactly that: one on one...

Chandler continues to pace back and forth.

Chandler Scott: So at Grapple Kingdom, it will be the FGA World Champion Cordy Stevenson...

The crowd respond with a thunderous ovation for Cordy.

Chandler Scott: ...taking on the other World Champion, Zero McHannon...

The crowd respond with a downpour of heavy boos for Zero.

Chandler Scott: ... to determine the undisputed FGA World Champion! But there is a catch. And that catch is in the form of a Special Guest Referee...

The crowd begins to stir as Chandler backs up and motions towards the entrance with his arm. He then turns and looks at the ramp.

Chandler Scott: And that man... is me.

The crowd respond with a loud pop as Chandler turns to the main camera and quickly raises his eyebrows. He then looks over and smirks at both a stunned Cordy and an irate Zero before taking a pin from out of the interior pocket of his leather jacket. Chandler pops the top off before taking the contract from Spencer. He then flips over to the last page, taps the tip of the pin on his tongue and then writes his John Hancock on the line for the special guest referee. Zero and Cordy are just looking at Chandler when the camera zooms in on the trio, then cuts to the Vertigo logo.