Vertigo (03.18.17)

[FGA Office]

Lead play-by-play analyst Kris Cruise is standing in the middle of the ring. He looks around at the capacity crowd before raising the mic to his mouth.

Kris Cruise: Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce at this time... Chandler Scott!

The lights dim as the sound of a guitar plays throughout the arena. Multi-colored lasers soon begin to shoot out from the stage. Once their attention has been captured, the crowd turns to the entryway to prepare for the man that's about to walk out. At the 25 second mark, “Animal Ghosts” bursts through the speakers. Chandler Scott steps through the curtain with outstretched arms to a loud ovation from the crowd. Chandler makes his way down to the ring and slaps hands with the fans along the way, he rolls himself into the ring as the lights come back on. Chandler times his ascension onto the middle ropes with the beginning of the chorus. The crowd sings along with the chorus while Chandler poses with his arms stretched. When the chorus ends, Chandler hops off the middle ropes, turns and lands on his feet. He motions a mic. “Animal Ghosts” dies down as Kris Cruise begins with the interview.

Kris Cruise: Chandler, two weeks ago on Vertigo, your match with Zero McHannon ended in a No Contest after you were not able to defeat McHannon in the designated time set by Izzy Anders. So because of that, Izzy Anders is going on to Only The Strong Survive, where she will challenge for the FGA Undisputed Championship.

The crowd immediately boos at the mention of Izzy Anders challenging for the championship.

Kris Cruise: But I don't want you to talk about the challenger. I want you to talk about the champion, Cordelia Stevenson…

Just like that, those boos turn to deafening cheers at the mention of the Undisputed Champion. But Chandler doesn’t seem to share the crowd’s enthusiasm for the woman in question.

Kris Cruise: … who had some strong, strong words for you on the last episode. Your thoughts?

The cheers begin to die down as the crowd listens intently to what Chandler is about to say. How will he approach the words that were thrown at him by his former rival-turned friend-turned… whatever the heck they are now. Chandler looks down while he rubs his chin. He looks up, gives a quick scan of the crowd, then turns his attention over to Cruise.

Chandler Scott: You want my thoughts, Cruise? I'll give you my thoughts. It seems to me as if our Undisputed Champion is a bit confused. See, for someone who always tells people to Get Familiar, I think it's about time that she gets familiar with a little something called... reality. What I saw last episode was Cordy Stevenson crying the blues. What I saw was her looking for your sympathy.

Chandler says, as he gestures out to the capacity crowd.

Chandler Scott: What I saw was her bending over backwards to try and justify her actions. Now last time Cordy was out here, there were a lot of cheers and why wouldn’t there be? Women want to be her and men and women want to be with her. She’s a perennial fan favorite. I know there’s a lot of people in the crowd tonight and a lot of viewers at home that will ride with Cordy to the very end...

A roar of cheers comes from the crowd as they confirm their support for Saint Sexy. Chandler gives them a nod.

Chandler Scott: Those are the people that cheered her last episode because they felt she was in the right. And if they still feel that way, then hey, that’s fine. I respect that. The cheers didn’t surprise me, though. What surprised me, Cruise, were the boos. And they weren’t sprinkled throughout the crowd here and there. They weren’t contained to one small pocket of the arena. They were noticeable. And you know what those boos told me? They told me that there were other people out there who felt that Cordy’s story wasn’t passing the sniff test. Those boos told me that some of our fans were no longer falling for the gag...

A mixture of cheers and boos come from the crowd. While the audience as a whole likes Chandler, there are some that don’t approve of his actions or his words towards Cordy. On the flipside, the crowd supports its Undisputed Champion. But there are some who still feel some type of way after what Cordy did after her match at Grapple Kingdom.

Chandler Scott: I heard her out her two weeks ago talking about how I wasn't a friend of hers when some “groupie” ran her mouth at her. Well I’m sorry. But the last time I checked, I’m not responsible for what another grown adult says to Cordy Stevenson. You never saw me give Cordy an attitude when Dan Herrera had something to say about me. So why am I being blamed for something somebody else said towards her?

Cruise shrugs his shoulders. It’s a fair point, but Cruise is doing his best to stay impartial.

Chandler Scott: Then she said that I wasn’t her friend when I was taking shots at her. Is that right? Who knew she would get offended by some playful jabs. Or did she conveniently forget that I told Spencer Burke that I was joking right afterwards? Did she conveniently forget that I was one of the first people to congratulate her on her World Title victory as well? Did she conveniently forget about me apologizing profusely for mistaking her as the person that attacked me last month. She must have, because her selective memory only seems to work when she remembers things that benefit her.

There is another mixture of cheers and boos from the crowd. But this time, there seems to be more boos and those boos seem to be more directed at Chandler than Cordy.

Chandler Scott: But that’s not the kicker, Cruise. The real kicker was a couple of weeks back. It was during the aftermath of Grapple Kingdom. Cordy Stevenson was riding high off of her big win. That is, until she got an attitude with Spencer Burke for having the nerve to bring up my name. As if I’m the one who took the attention off of her. As if I’m the one that tried to steal her spotlight. But here’s the thing. Once that final bell rung at Grapple Kingdom, the name Chandler Scott should not have been an immediate topic of conversation. The name Chandler Scott should not have been making headlines. But you want to know why there was controversy? You want to know why people were talking about me more than they were talking about her? It was because of her own actions. Maybe if she didn’t take a championship belt and bash me in the face with it unprovoked, then maybe, just maybe, people wouldn’t have been bringing me up in the immediate after of the biggest win of her career. Just a thought.

There’s yet another mixture of cheers and boos. But this one seems more 50/50.

Chandler Scott: But hey, it’s cool, I get it. You people are used to seeing the Cordy Stevenson that she wants you to see. Proud. Strong. Fearless. But in that very moment, you all saw the side of Cordy Stevenson that she doesn't want you to see. And that’s the side of her that’s fearful, petty and insecure. As it turns out, Cruise, Cordy’s ego is just as fragile as her ankle.

There’s no split this time. It’s straight boos after that low blow. But Chandler owns it as he places his hand over his heart.

Chandler Scott: Was that a cheap shot? You bet it was. But of course, after the incident at Grapple Kingdom, she would know a thing or two about cheap shots, now wouldn’t she?

There’s another roar of boos from the crowd. But it seems like half the people are booing Chandler while the other half are booing the belt shot from the PPV.

Chandler Scott: After what happened that night, I feel like I’m well within my right to take that belt and bash her in the face.

Chandler wags his finger.

Chandler Scott: But you see, I’m not going to hit Cordy Stevenson with a title belt or a blunt object. My hands work just fine. I’m not going to cheap shot her. I’m not going to attack her from behind. Don’t get me wrong, our paths will cross again. But Cordy… and I know you’re back there watching, chica… when I do get my chance at payback? It won’t be when you least expect it. In fact, I’ll do you the courtesy of letting you know well in advance. Will you know it's coming from a mile away? Of course. But you'll also know that there's nothing she can do to stop me.

There's another mixtures of cheers and boos from the crowd.

Chandler Scott: You did what you had to do, Cordy. Now, it’s time for me to do what I have to do.

Kris Cruise: What exactly would that be?

Chandler Scott: That!

Chandler points to the trons over at the entrance. When the crowd turns to see what Chandler's pointing at, the Trons switch to two logos. On the left, the logo for Only the Strong Survive. On the right, a logo for the Gold Rush Rumble. The camera cuts back to a smirking Chandler.

Chandler Scott: A lot of names, Cruise... a lot of names have already been announced. A lot of names have been bandied about as being possible entrants. "Will this guy enter? Will that guy enter? Is this person debuting? Is that person returning?" Well let me put some of the speculation to bed. Tonight, right here in Charlotte, North Carolina, yours truly is throwing his name into the hat. Yours truly will be apart of the Gold Rush Rumble.

Cheers and applauds ring throughout the crowd after the announcement.

Chandler Scott: 29 others grapplers, Cruise. It's a hell of a task. And I know damn well that as soon as I get into that ring, I'm going to have a huge target on my back. I'm used to having targets on my back. When I reigned supreme as your World Champion, I had every single person in that locker room looking to knock me off the top of the mountain. But then, it was different. This time, it's all at once. Back then, I only had to deal with one challenger at a time. But when I make my way into this ring on April Fifteenth, there could be one, two, maybe even ten others grapplers waiting for me... salivating at the chance to dash my hopes. I came up short at Retribution. I came up short last night here on Vertigo. Cruise, I'm not coming up short again. I've come to far to stop now. Hell, we've come too far to turn back now.

The crowd break out into cheers again as Chandler gestures towards them. He looks out and nods back at the Charlotte crowd.

Chandler Scott: I don't just owe it to myself, I owe it to each and every single person that has cheered for me along the way. I owe it each and every one of you that has supported me over the past year and a half. On April Fifteenth, live in Tampa, Florida, after all 30 entrants have made their way into this ring and there's only one man left standing, every head will bow and every tongue will confess that...

Crowd: CHANDLER! REIGNS! SUPREME!

Cheers and applause fill up the arena as Chandler slowly scans the crowd. He then smiles as he turns back to Cruise.

Chandler Scott: What they said...

"Animal Ghosts" blasts throughout the venue while cheers ring throughout the arena. Chandler pats Cruise on the shoulder before exiting the ring. He makes his way up the aisle and slaps some hands on both sides of the entrance way. At the top of the ramp, Chandler turns around and makes the belt motion before throwing both arms in the air.

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

Blake Rogers vs. Brian Stryker

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 contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania! Weighing in at 215 pounds… BRIIIIIIAAAAAN STRYYYYYKERRRRRR!!!

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 looks to be in good spirits after the loss of his first FGA pay per view match.

Stephy Auger: Well why wouldn’t he be in good spirits. The man was blessed with the opportunity of facing The Pope on pay per view. That’s a story that he’ll be able to tell that little runt of his one day.

Kris Cruise: Well I don’t think Stryker holds Sadie San Francisco in the high regard that you do. But it does look like he’s looking for a do over.

Stephy Auger: Of course he’s looking for a second chance. He wants to try to right the “wrong” that happened at Grapple Kingdom. But you heard the man, Cruise. Even he admitted that he lost fair and square. Sadie’s got nothing to gain by beating him again. But if he sticks his nose in her business, she might just have to rough him up like she did Noelle earlier tonight.

The venue quiets down and soon buzzes with the fans' chatter amongst themselves before there's some action on top of the entrance ramp.

J.A. Aldridge: And his opponent, from Niskayuna, New York! Weighing in at 217 pounds! He is “The Minimalist”, BLAAAAAAAKE ROOOOOOGERRRRRS!!!

Blake Rogers walks out with his hands on his hips. The crowd begins to mostly boo him as he looks around at them and walks down to the ring, cracking his knuckles and rolling his wrists a bit as he does so. He slides into the ring and walks over to his corner, where he beckons the referee over and makes them check his pads and boots for any hidden objects.

Kris Cruise: Blake Rogers must be proud after he cost Julian Tijerina his shot at the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship two weeks ago.

Stephy Auger: Oh? Is that what happened? I remember Rogers coming down to the ring and helping Tijerina up. But he slipped, fell and dropped Tijerina right on his face. Accidents happen, you know.

Kris Cruise: Do you even believe half of the things that come out of your mouth?

Stephy Auger: I’m an honest woman that calls it like she sees it. I’ve got journalist integrity, Cruise.

The bell sounds as both men circle the ring before locking up. After jockeying for position, Stryker places Rogers in a side headlock. After a bit of maneuvering, Rogers is able to slip out and reverse into a hammerlock from behind. He then spins Stryker around and catches him in a side headlock. After getting checked on by the ref, Stryker shoves Rogers off of him and into the ropes. When Rogers returns, the crowd boos when he runs over Stryker with a running shoulder block. He then runs into another set of ropes as Stryker kips up. When Rogers returns, Stryker leapfrogs over him. Rogers continues to run into the ropes. When Rogers comes back, Stryker brings him down with an arm drag. As Rogers returns to his feet, Stryker rushes over and brings him down with a running hurricanrana, sending Rogers through the ropes and to the floor. As The Minimalist picks himself up on the floor, Stryker runs into the far ropes. When he returns, he springboards to the top rope. But he instead of flipping to the outside and hitting a Shooting Star Press, Stryker jumps back down into the ring once Rogers scurries out of the way.

Kris Cruise: Rogers wisely got out of the way there.

Stephy Auger: I’m surprised you’re not admonishing Rogers for not standing there and letting Stryker fall on top of him.

Stryker keeps his eyes focus on Rogers as The Minimalist circles the ring, effectively putting the brakes on this match.

Rogers makes his way back up onto the apron before stepping back inside the ring. The two men once again circle the ring before locking up. After jockeying for position, Rogers places Stryker in an arm wrench. The ref asks Stryker if he wants to give up. When Stryker refuses, Rogers yanks on the arm before performing another arm wrench. The boos then turns to cheers after Stryker rolls forward, leans back, kips up and reverses into First Stryke (arm twist/hook kick combo). He drops down and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Rogers kicks out.

Stryker picks up Rogers and whips him into the ropes. When Rogers returns, Stryker goes for a back body drop. But Rogers is able to slip down from behind before shoving him into the ropes. When Stryker returns, Rogers throws him down with an arm drag. After Stryker gets back to his feet, Rogers brings him down with another japanese arm drag. When Stryker gets back up, Rogers brings him down to the mat with a side headlock takedown.

The ref gets down and asks Stryker if he wants to give up. But Stryker refuses to quit. He then reaches up and reverses into a headscissors. However, Rogers is quick to escape with a kip up. After Stryker returns to his feet, Rogers catches him in another side headlock. After three forearm shots to the ribs, Stryker shoves Rogers off of him and into the ropes. When Rogers returns, Stryker knocks him down with a crossbody block.

ONE
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TWO!
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Rogers kicks out.

Stryker picks up Rogers and whips him into the corner. After Rogers crashes into the turnbuckles, Stryker runs over into the corner. But he gets turned around with a boot to the face. As Stryker begins to stagger away from the corner, Rogers rushes up from behind and throws him down with a German Suplex. He then pulls Stryker over and makes the cover.

ONE!
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.
TWO!
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Stryker gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Stryker was one of the first names announced for the Gold Rush Rumble. If everything works out for Stryker, his second FGA pay per view will be much better than his first.

Stephy Auger: But that’s a big if, Cruise.

Rogers picks up Stryker, moves him into the corner and unleashes a series of knife edge chops that echo throughout the arena. He then brings Stryker from out of the corner and whips him into the far ropes. When Stryker returns, the crowd boos when Rogers delivers a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. After Stryker bounces off his knees, Rogers makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Styker gets his shoulder up.

Rogers picks up Stryker and throws him down with a scoop slam. He drops down and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Stryker gets his shoulder up.

Rogers picks up Stryker, brings him over towards the ropes and delivers a front suplex across the top rope. While Stryker hangs across the top rope, Rogers takes a few steps back, then runs forward and connects with a running knee lift, knocking Stryker off the rope and to the floor.

Kris Cruise: Stryker just took a hard fall to the floor, including bouncing off the apron. That can’t feel good, especially after Rogers already started working over the back.

The boos continue as Rogers heads to the outside and puts the boots to Stryker. He then reaches down, picks up Stryker and delivers a scoop slam across the edge of the apron. After Stryker bounces off the apron, Rogers pulls him up by the hair, brings him over towards the guardrail and delivers a front suplex across it. Rogers then takes a few steps back, sizes up Stryker, runs forward and connects with a running knee smash to the side of the head, knocking Stryker off the rail and to the floor. After rolling back in and then back out to restart the count, Rogers picks up Stryker, lifts him up and delivers a belly to back suplex on the floor. While Stryker lays sprawled out on the floor, Rogers rolls back into the ring.

Stephy Auger: It looks like the bad times are gonna continue for Stryker. This one is all but over!


The ref starts his count.

ONE!





TWO!





THREE!





FOUR!





FIVE!





SIX!





SEVEN!





EIG-

The crowd cheers as Stryker slowly pulls himself up using the edge of the apron.

Kris Cruise: Think again, Stephy! Stryker isn’t done yet.

Stephy Auger: Too stupid to stay down, I see.

After Stryker pulls himself up onto the apron, Rogers doubles him over with a shoulder thrust through the ropes. He then goes for a vertical suplex back into the ring. But Stryker knees him in the head on the way up. After Stryker slips back down onto the apron, he returns the favor with a shoulder thrust through the ropes. He follows up with a sunset flip.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Rogers kicks out.

After both men return to their feet, Rogers cracks Stryker across the face with an elbow smash. He then takes Stryker and whips him into the corner. Rogers rushes into the corner to attack with a running clothesline. But Stryker moves out of the way. When Rogers turns around, he gets caught with an elbow smash, followed by a CCS Enzuigiri that sends him crumbling out of the corner. While Rogers is down, Stryker heads into the corner and goes for a springboard Phoenix Splash.

Kris Cruise: This could be it right here!

But Rogers gets his knees up!

Stephy Auger: Think again, Cruise!

Rogers picks up Stryker and throws him down with a snap gutwrench suplex. He then turns over and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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T-NO!

Stryker gets his shoulder up.

Rogers picks up Stryker, applies an inverted front facelock and delivers an inverted vertical suplex. He then turns Stryker over and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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T-NO!

Stryker gets his shoulder up.

Rogers picks up Stryker and sets him up for another German Suplex. But Stryker is able to block with an elbow to the face. After three more elbows, Stryker runs into the ropes. When Stryker returns, he knocks Rogers down to one knee after a dropkick to the leg. He then gets back up and runs into the ropes. When Stryker returns, Rogers doubles him over with a boot to the midsection. He then lifts Stryker up for a brainbuster. But Stryker is able to slip down from behind and follows up with Stryke 2 (leg-hook Saito Suplex). The cheers continue as he makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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T-NO!

Rogers gets his shoulder up.

Stryker picks up Rogers and whips him into the corner. As he rushes into the corner, Rogers steps out and counters with an overhead belly to belly suplex into the turnbuckles. The crowd boos while Stryker lays folded up in the corner. But the boos soon turn to cheers when Julian Tijerina makes his way down to the ring.

Kris Cruise: It’s Julian Tijerina!

Stephy Auger: What is Enrique doing out here?

Kris Cruise: He hasn’t forgotten about two weeks ago!

Rogers steps halfway between the ropes and waves him into the ring. But Tijerina, meanwhile, keeps his eyes locked on The Minimalist.

Kris Cruise: Rogers is calling Tijerina into the ring!

Rogers steps back in and continues to wave in Tijerina. But Tijerina stays on the ropes. While Rogers is distracted, Stryker grabs him from behind and delivers the Insomniac’s Dream (crossface chickenwing suplex) to cheers from the crowd.

Stephy Auger: Oh no!

While Rogers is down, Tijerina continues to stare at The Minimalist while Stryker steps out onto the apron and scales to the top turnbuckle. From there, Stryker leaps off and connects with the Air Stryker (Shooting Star Press), causing the crowd to explode with cheers.

ONE!
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TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd cheers when “Red Flag” blasts over the PA.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, BRIAN STRYKER!

The cheers continue as Stryker gets his arm raised. Tijerina can be seen smiling at the sight of a defeated Rogers.

Kris Cruise: Brian Stryker bounces back and picks up the victory, Stephy!

Stephy Auger: Yeah, after Julian Tijerina distracted him!

Kris Cruise: Blake Rogers allowed himself to get distracted. He could have easily ignored Tijerina, but he didn’t. He’s got no one to blame but himself.

Stephy Auger: I doubt Rogers will feel the same way.

[FGA Office]

The cameras switch to the backstage area where we see Sadie San Francisco standing with her arms folded, looking at the monitor as Brian Stryker's image fades from that screen. She takes a breath and starts to turn away from the monitor but is stopped as her phone begins to vibrate noisily in her hand. She raises it up to her ear, answering with a small sigh.

Sadie San Francisco: Evan... Did you see it?

She narrows her eyes at whatever the response is on the other line, clearly bothered by the answer.

Sadie San Francisco: Um. Yes. I thought it through. Then I thought it through again. And your girlfriend happened to think it was a great idea, so maybe some appreciation or a 'job well done' for taking out Noelle-- which was your job, by the way-- and maybe show me some support before I go up against Jimmy Page. Hm. What do you mean 'what for'? Have you ever had to face Jimmy Page? I mean... I'm practically a saint for staying remotely focused while putting up with an imbecile like Ne...

Sadie stops and takes a breath. Her eyes raise toward somebody off-camera. She gives the person a clearly forced half-smile.

Sadie San Francisco: No, it was nothing... look, we have to go. It'll be fine.

Sadie hangs up the phone, looking ahead as Neon walks into view twirling her hair with her finger, giving Sadie a nonchalant glance before letting out a single panted laugh.

NEON: Hello best friend. Who was that?

Neon purses her lips and looks Sadie up and down slowly. Sadie narrows an eye at Neon again but once more, that half-smile breaks through.

Sadie San Francisco: Evan. Just letting him know how it’s going.

Neon paints a puzzled look on her face before emitting a contrived giggle.

NEON: Hang on. You… (points at Sadie) You are letting him know how it’s going. My… (points at herself) How my plan went?

Sadie rubs at her eye with the heel of her palm, smile still in tact, trying to hide the obvious stress growing on her face.

Sadie San Francisco: The night in general, actually. Just wanted to let him know that I hadn't punched you in your teeth yet and your voice isn't as annoying as it sounds on TV after all. We’re like sisters, Neon. This is…

Sadie raises her hands up, fake smile growing larger.

Sadie San Francisco: This is fantastic. Really glad we’re here on this journey together tonight.

Each word oozes with sarcasm and Neon throws her hair behind her shoulders in retaliation before tilting her head to the side slightly, sighing with a patronising undertone.

NEON: Together?

Neon laughs.

NEON: You and I, we can be civil… for Evan’s sake. However, let’s lay it all out on the table. In Evan’s world and in this world (twirls her index finger in the air), I am the big bad boss and you are here for the assist.

Neon inches closer to Sadie until their noses almost touch in an attempt to intimidate her.

NEON: ...and it’s best you don’t ever forget that, sister.

Sadie’s eyes dance back-and-forth from one of Neon's pupils to the other. From the way she swallows and how her jaw tightens, it's evident that she has more to say than what comes out.

Sadie San Francisco: You ready to go?

She nods toward the gorilla position, folding her arms again, though never breaks her gaze from Neon. Neon reciprocates the gaze with an arrogant smile and the same intensity in her eyes before taking a step backward and returning to a more laid back demeanour.

NEON: Always. I trust that whatever point I had to make was made clear. I know in my heart that you’ll be smart enough to heed whatever advice I have to give you.

Neon raises both arms up to her shoulders, rubbing her fingers on her palms, biting her lip and once again looking her peer up and down.

NEON: Every queen needs a sidekick after all.

Neon laughs coldly before pacing slowly passing Sadie, not breaking the eye contact, fully expecting a comeback. However, one never comes. With a roll of the eyes, Neon continues on. Sadie lingers there for a few moments behind her. She takes a breath, shaking her head before she walks in the same direction down the hall... but she slows her pace, eyes narrowing a bit at something ahead, out of frame. The camera finally swings around, showing Brian Stryker making his way to his locker-room from the gorilla position. He turns, looking at Sadie, who stops completely in her tracks, following him with her eyes as he walks past, not giving her the satisfaction of saying a single word.

Sadie watches Stryker walk away in silence, with an indistinguishable look. After a few moments she turns, continuing down the corridor after Neon again while we fade away.

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

The camera feed gears towards the new number one contender for the FGA Undisputed Championship, Izzy Anders. She sits in her locker room, taping her hands around. Each time she does, she tugs on the tape a little more to make it as snug as possible. For a moment, she stares at her body, checking base with any lingering injuries. She sighs out, relieved to find none, but her head perks up when she notices a person entering the room. She gets up, stretching out. When she turns around, her eyes are closed and she smiles widely, anticipating someone familiar.

She was expecting Spencer Burke, her favorite interviewer, but instead, she found…

Cordelia Stevenson.

There is a brief moment between the two as Cordelia steps forward. Izzy stands still, her face devoid of the earlier gleefulness she had. She swallows hard, before looking down at the Undisputed Championship glimmering in the light. There are no words said between the two for a good while, which the audience eats up; their loudness picked up over the feed. Izzy takes a beat to check in with herself again, before giving Cordy a cock of the head and a wry grin.

Izzy Anders: You know it’s bad juju to see the bride before the special day.

The quip causes the champ to smirk.

Cordelia Stevenson: Well, that never really applied to me....

She gives a casual shrug.

Cordelia Stevenson: ... with me always having been a bridesmaid and all. I was always there to make sure the bride was ready.

Her eyes zero in on Izzy’s.

Cordelia Stevenson: And by that look in your eye, I can definitely tell that you are.

Her eyes move downward as she takes in the sight of the prior weeks beat the clock challenge winner and the next challenger to her title.

Cordelia Stevenson: And what a beautiful bride you will be. I don’t think I could have asked for one better. You said that you’d be back to challenge me for this. You said that you’d find a way to make it back to me and voila… low and behold here you are. A woman of her word, much like myself. Y’know, I can appreciate that, Izzypop.

Izzy walks forward, taking a step towards the very belt that she would be fighting for, but her focus is not on it presently. Instead, she looks up at the taller woman, staring intently into the champion’s bright eyes. The usual antics the Mindkiller demonstrates are not at play, rather a warm air lingers off Izzy. She looks briefly over Cordy’s shoulder, looking for someone.

Izzy Anders: No interviewer, no Dom to give me a headache, nothing. Huh, this is quite the special meeting, Ms. Champion. We’re not going to do this in the ring, you know, like they usually do?

She continues to joke. Cordelia shakes her head.

Cordelia Stevenson: Nah. We’re different Izzy. We can do without the formalities and fanfare. No need to try and pretty it up, because we both know that once we get in that ring… it won’t be pretty. It’s going to be hard hitting, it’s going to be exhausting. It’s going to be brutal.

Cordelia brushes the hair from Izzy’s face and leans in, her voice just above a whisper.

Cordelia Stevenson: It’s going to be the most exhilarating night of your life. Just you… me…. and this.

Cordelia slides the Undisputed Championship off of her shoulder and holds it up for Izzy to see.

Cordelia Stevenson: Tonight is just another appetizer I guess. I just came through to welcome ya to the stage, chica. So how does it feel?

Izzy Anders: Yeah, I’m not used to this whole main event thing. You gotta show me the ropes, especially if I’m going to end taking over for a while.

She shrugs, before she relaxes, allowing her usual, domineering aura to radiate off her.

Izzy Anders: It feels right. I remember how long ago that I stepped into FGA and said that I was going to one day get here, to this stage. Every match that I had, every big moment has been building up to this moment. You denied me my end goal once, but do you know how many people has beaten me without me getting that win back? No one. Dom, Karma, Noelle, none of them.

She seethes when the thought of FGA’s system comes into her head.

Izzy Anders: I planned on going through the Gold Rush Rumble. I thought about having to go through the Lion’s Cup. I know that I have to force myself back here. Because I’m Izzy Anders and I deserve that much. No matter what the critics say, or what FGA might believe, I’m good enough. No--

She looks down to the ground.

Izzy Anders: I’m better.

Cordelia listens to Izzy intently and actually cracks a smile.

Cordelia Stevenson: You are good enough. And I’m not ashamed to say that I believed that even when you didn’t. When you were that bright eyed girl simply happy to be here, I knew, deep down in my heart that you would grow to be something special. And you have. You’ve blossomed in ways most couldn’t have imagined, and now here you are. Weeks away from challenging once again for the biggest prize in the game. I give you all the credit in the world, Izzy. You’ve come a long way and I can see that fire burning…

She pauses briefly as she shifts her weight from one foot to the other.

Cordelia Stevenson: I just hope I don’t diminish it completely. I do hope it continues to burn after I do to you what I did to your buddy Mr. McHannon, because your future is bright. And you’re right, one day you will be World Champion. But now?

Cordy vehemently shakes her head.

Cordelia Stevenson: It just simply isn’t your time. It’s my time, and I don’t intend on letting you or anyone else impede on that. Patience is a virtue. Learn it. Because good things come to those who wait and as long as I have this title? You’ll be waiting for a mighty long time.

Izzy chuckles.

Izzy Anders: Patience? Oh please, don’t come in here with patience. I know about patience. And I know that patience is a vice here, because if you wait around, the place will fuck you over. Yeah, Cordy, you’ve waited your turn, but you had to take it for yourself. Remember that? You had to beat me, Tony, and everybody else to get to where you are now. That’s what FGA is built on, taking the initiative even when you don’t get the same chances as your peers. That’s why we got the Gold Rush Rumble or the Lion’s Cup. We don’t just get chances, no, none of that here. I had to outlast the world and all to just stand here for the first time in the limelight. You think that I can squander this chance? Hell no.

She sneers.

Izzy Anders: If I lose to you, I don’t go to the back of the line. Nah, I have to start from farther back. Because you know how this company works, oh, wait, no, no, you probably don’t. Because you came here from something. You didn’t start from scratch. You beat every bastard that doubted you and you made it here. You’re a proud champion, and I’m proud to see you here. But you winning? It’s my prerogative not to let that happen. Because if you do beat me, which you have before, what happens to Izzy Anders, huh? She gets shuffled back and everything goes back to the status quo...you see what I did there?

The Mindkiller snickers lightly to herself.

Izzy Anders: I don’t got time to wait on when you’re good and ready to give up that belt. I got to do to you what I did to Noelle a few years ago. I gotta take that shot and put you down just for the W. That fire you’re talking about--

She points to her chest.

Izzy Anders: You already know what I threatened to do with that fire. That fire? That’s my passion, not just for wanting to be the best, but do what I’ve been saying since I got here. That fire, that passion, is going to eat this place whole, ashes and all.

Cordelia remains quiet as she studies Izzy for a brief second. Finally she responds, her voice low.

Cordelia Stevenson: So you still want to burn it down, huh? The company?

There is a lingering silence. The look in Isabella’s eyes providing all the answer that is needed to Cordelia’s question.

Cordelia Stevenson: Honestly, I don’t blame you.

Cordelia says much to Izzy’s surprise. She makes a motion with her hand.

Cordelia Stevenson: Burn it all if you must. Just know that amidst the rubble and ashes, there will be one figure left standing.

She leans forward and points directly at herself.

Cordelia Stevenson: Me.

Cordelia straightens up, and slowly begins backing towards the door.

Cordelia Stevenson: I guess I’ll be seeing you out there. Be thankful you have partners tonight, cause there’ll be no one to save you at Only The Strong Survive.

[FGA Office]

Jimmy Page vs. Sadie San Francisco

The lights in the arena fade to a rose color as the familiar sound of smooth jazz echoes throughout the building. “Young Nation” hits the PA system and boos resonate among the audience. Sadie San Francisco steps out onto the stage, a cold expression hidden behind heavily-tinted aviators. As opposed to the norm, she quickly removes them, tossing them aside... before an even louder chorus of boos resonates throughout the arena. Behind her emerges "The Queen of Mean" Neon, with a broad grin to the near-deafening audience. Sadie doesn't look back at Neon, but walks down the ramp, not paying much attention to the jeers or catcalls on either side of her. She pauses in front of the ring, glancing up at it before calmly walking around toward the side which the hard-camera faces. Neon lingers behind at the bottom of the ramp, laughing at the crowd's response.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, being accompanied to the ring by NEON! From The West Side! Weighing in at 128 pounds! She is “The Pope”, SAAAAADIIIIEEEE SAAAAAAAN FRAAAAAAANCIIIIIIISCOOOOOO!!!

Sadie places a hand on the bottom rope before turning, looking over her shoulder toward the audience with a glare. She shakes her head for a moment before swiftly pulling herself into the ring beneath the bottom rope and right back up to her feet. Neon enters the ring behind her, beneath the bottom and middle ropes. She moves in front of Sadie, toying with her hair as she grins toward the crowd, earning that same deafening, booing response. Sadie narrows her eyes at Neon from behind, but trades it for a clearly-fake smile when she turns around. Neon winks at Sadie as she walks past her, stepping through the ropes and dropping down to the outside. Sadie rolls her eyes toward the referee as he says something to her that isn't picked up. She makes her way to the corner, awaiting the start of the match.

Kris Cruise: I’m kind of surprised that NEON is out here with Sadie for her match against Jimmy Page.

Stephy Auger: Why wouldn’t she be? This is what The Chief wants and that’s harmony in Camp Envi.

Kris Cruise: Harmony? NEON might be out here at ringside. But trust me, Stephy, there’s no harmony going on between those two.

Stephy Auger: Oh please, stop trying to spread rumors! These two are clearly best friends now!

A song crashes into the P.A. system that sounds of static and a guitar. The lights begin to flash a violent red frantically. As the song "Murdered Out" by Kim Gordon really kicks in, the lights continue to flash red. A silhouette appears at the entrance. With a controlled stagger, Jimmy Page comes from the back, head down and arms out from his sides. Page swaggers down to the ring in at a methodical pace. The camera gets a close up of his hair covered face as he makes his way down the aisle. He stops at the top of the ramp, flinging his hair from his eyes and glaring around, chewing on a piece of gum. Through the static red, a spotlight follows Page as he makes his way to the front of the ring.

J.A. Aldridge: And her opponent, from Flint, Michigan! Weighing in at 237 pounds! He is “The King of the F’N World”, JIIIIIMMYYYYYY PAAAAAAAGE!!!

He takes a running start, sliding on top of the apron. He stands, gets in the ring, then climbs on top of the turnbuckle. Page spits his gum outside of the ring, into the crowd. Jimmy leaps down from the turnbuckle, and begins to slither down into a seat on the lower turnbuckle; Placing his head against the middle turnbuckle, knocking the back of it against the corner gently as he awaits the bell.

Kris Cruise: Jimmy Page was the first name announced for the Gold Rush Rumble. Page came close to winning it back in 2014. Maybe 2017 will be Page’s time. But in the meantime, he’s up against Sadie San Francisco.

Stephy Auger: “The Pope” doesn’t look to be intimidated, either, Cruise.

Kris Cruise: I’m sure she’s doing a better job of hiding that than she is hiding her disdain for NEON.

Stephy Auger: Stop spreading rumors!

The bell sounds as Pages and Sadie circle the ring before locking up. After jockeying for position, Page uses his strength advantage to move Sadie into the corner. While Sadie’s pressed up against the turnbuckles, the ref goes over and gives both grapplers until a count of five to break it up.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Once a clean break has been made, Sadie deliver a knife edge chop. Page returns with a chop of his own. Sadie delivers another knife edge chop. Page then comes back with a chop of his own. Sadie then delivers two knife edge cops. Page comes back with three knife edge chops. Sadie then delivers four knife edge chops. Page then answers back with five knife edge chops. After Sadie guards her chest, she comes back with a throat punch, which elicits boos from the crowd.

Kris Cruise: Sadie just went blow for blow with Page. But I’m not sure if that’s wise for the long haul.

Stephy Auger: I trust Sadie.

Kris Cruise: That’s the first time that phrase has ever been said.

While Page turns and staggers away from the corner, Sadie comes up from behind. When she spins Page around, Page knocks her down with a straight right to the jaw.

Kris Cruise: Like I was saying. It wasn’t wise to try and go punch for punch with a brawler like Page.

The boos continue as Page reaches down, pulls Sadie up by her hair, marches into the corner and goes to slam her face-first into the top turnbuckle. But Sadie puts her foot on the middle turnbuckle, blocking the move. She then nails Page with three elbows to the chest. She then grabs Page and goes to slam him face-first into the top turnbuckle. But Page gets his foot on the middle turnbuckle. She goes to slam him face-first into the top turnbuckle but again, Page blocks. He then grabs Sadie and slams her face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning Sadie around, Page connects with a forearm strike, followed by a back elbow smash. Page delivers another forearm strike, followed by a back elbow smash. He then takes Sadie and whips her into the opposite corner. Page charges across the ring, but Sadie knocks him back with a boot to the face. After shaking off the blow, Page charges back into the corner. This time, Sadie knocks him back with a back elbow. After shaking off the blow, Page charges back over towards the corner and hurls himself at Sadie. But Sadie moves out of the way, causing Page to crash into the turnbuckles.

The boos continue as Sadie quickly grabs Page from behind and repeatedly slams him face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning Page around, Sadie delivers several kicks to the midsection. She then steps back, reaches out and chokes Page with her foot while pulling down on the top rope.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Sadie lets go. She then nails Page with an elbow smash across the face. She gets cocky and motions for Page to fight back before connecting with another elbow smash. She then turns and eyes NEON at ringside before connecting with another elbow smash.

Stephy Auger: Did you just see that? Sadie just looked at NEON for approval.

Kris Cruise: You might want to get those eyes checked after the show.

Just then, Page grabs Sadie, tosses her into the corner and cracks her across the jaw with an elbow smash, sending her slumping down in the corner. From there, Page puts the boots to Sadie’s chest before running into the far ropes. When Page returns, he connects with a running knee facewash. He then drags Sadie from out of the corner and makes the cover.

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

Kris Cruise: Sadie, with NEON’s help, was able to take out Noelle Smith earlier on tonight. But she doesn’t seem to be faring too well against Jimmy Page right now.

Stephy Auger: First off, it was NEON that took out Noelle with Sadie’s help. But don’t worry. “The Pope” is fine. Everything is all good.

Page picks up Sadie and whips her into the ropes. When Page returns, he sets up for a back body drop. But Sadie stops and counters with a kick square to the face. While Page stands back up, Sadie turns and runs back into the ropes. When she returns, Page throws out Sole Destruction (rolling big boot). But Sadie catches his foot and then knocks his other leg out from under him with a leg sweep.

Sadie picks up Page, applies a front facelock and follows up with sharp elbows to the back of the neck. After bringing Page down with a hangman’s neckbreaker, she turns over and makes the cover.

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

Sadie picks up Page, wrenches his arm and follows up with a shoulder jawbreaker, sending him stumbling into the ropes. While Page tries to shake it off, Sadie gets back to her feet and runs into the ropes. When Sadie returns, she connects with a crossbody block, sending them both over the top rope…

Kris Cruise: There they go!

… somehow, Page not only lands on his feet, but lands with Sadie in his clutches. He then looks around the arena before hurling him over his shoulder with a fallaway slam. While Sadie arches her back in pain, NEON can be seen looking down at her with while shaking her head.

Kris Cruise: So much for team unity, Stephy!

[While Sadie tries to pull herself up using the edge of the apron, Page can be seen lining her up in his sights. As Sadie turns towards him, Page charges and hurls himself at her. But again, Sadie is able to get out of the way just in the nick of time. She rolls back into the ring as Page to crash into the steel steps.

Kris Cruise: Sadie San Francisco was just a step too quick for Page.

Stephy Auger: I told you The Pope had everything under control.

Sadie rolls back to the outside. After putting the boots to Page, Sadie picks him up and slams him face-first onto the steel steps. She then rolls Page back in before sliding herself back in. Sadie makes the cover.

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

Sadie picks up Page and goes for an irish whip. But Page reverses with an irish whip feint into a clothesline. After moving around his jaw, Page goes over, picks up Sadie and goes for a short-arm clothesline. But Sadie ducks and runs into the ropes. When Sadie returns, Page throws out a lariat. But again, Sadie ducks and runs into the ropes. When Sadie returns, she connects with a running high knee. While Page stumbles back, Sadie turns and runs back into the ropes. When she returns, she connects with another running high knee. While Page is dazed, Sadie steps out onto the apron and scales to the top turnbuckle. From there, the crowd boos when she leaps off and knocks Page down with a diving knee drop. She makes the cover.

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

Kris Cruise: Jimmy Page, as well as the leader of Camp Envi, Evan Envi, have already been announced for the Rumble. Could you imagine if Sadie San Francisco gets announced as well? What about NEON? Could you imagine the damage the three of them could cause?

Stephy Auger: Yeah, it’d be great!

As Sadie picks up Page, Page connects with a double chop to the throat. He then takes Sadie and whips her into the ropes. When Sadie returns, The crowd boos when Page delivers a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. He makes the cover.

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

Page picks up Sadie, lifts her up and delivers a vertical suplex. He turns over and makes the cover.

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

Page picks up Sadie and whips her into the ropes. When Sadie returns, Page knocks her down with a running big boot. He then picks up Sadie and lifts her up onto his shoulders. But before he can run into the corner and deliver a turnbuckle powerbomb, Sadie delivers a series of short-range punches to the head. After slipping down in front of Page, Sadie follows up with a kneeling jawbreaker. While Page is dazed, Sadie gets back to her feet, turns and runs into the ropes. When Sadie comes back, Page flattens her with Sole Destruction. He then picks up Sadie, lifts her up onto his shoulders, runs and goes for a turnbuckle powerbomb. But Sadie counters at the last second, delivering a hurricanrana that sends Page face-first into the top turnbuckle. When Page stumbles back and turns around, Sadie grabs him and brings him down with a Downward Spiral. The crowd boos while she makes the cover.

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

Sadie picks up Page and doubles him over with three knee strikes to the midsection. She then steps back and leaps up for a Fameasser. But Page slips out of the way. He then quickly grabs Sadie from behind and throws out the Concussion (ripcord rolling elbow). But Sadie ducks. When Page turns around, Sadie proceeds to knock him back towards the corner with a flurry of elbow smashes. While Page is dazed, Sadie runs into the opposite corner. After bouncing off the turnbuckles, she charges back over towards Page. But Page is able to counter her attack and hurl her into the turnbuckles with an Exploder Suplex! Page then picks up Sadie, lifts her up onto his shoulders, charges across the ring and throws her into the corner with a turnbuckle powerbomb. He then drags Sadie from out of the corner and makes the cover.

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

The crowd boos when Sadie gets her shoulder up.

Page picks up Sadie, turns and brings her down with The Paralyzing (hangman’s neckbreaker across the knee). He makes the cover.

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

Sadie gets her shoulder up.

Page picks up Sadie and applies a half nelson from behind. He then goes to try and hurl her over his head with a half nelson suplex. But Sadie reaches out with her free arm and wraps it around the top rope. Page tries to yank her off the rope and deliver the suplex. But Sadie’s got her arm wrapped around the top rope tight. As the ref goes over and tries to separate the two, Sadie takes advantage of the distraction and nails Page with a mule kick.

Kris Cruise: What a low blow!

Stephy Auger: What!? Where!? I didn’t see anything!

Kris Cruise: Of course you didn’t!

The crowd erupts with boos as Page cringes before crumbling down to the canvas. The boos continues as Sadie circles Page before stomping away on him. But suddenly, the boos get overtaken by cheers from the crowd.

Stephy Auger: You hear that, Cruise? These mutants in the crowd are finally smartening up and embracing The Pope!

Kris Cruise: They aren’t cheering for Sadie! They’re cheering for Noelle!

Stephy Auger: HA HA HA! Good one, Cruise! Noelle was last seen getting the tar beaten out of her by NEO-OHMYGODNEONLOOKOUTITSNOELLESMITHJESUSCHRIST!

*CRACK!!!*

The crowd explodes with cheers when Noelle takes her bedazzled kendo stick and whacks it across the back of NEON. “The Queen of Mean” lets out a yelp. But Noelle’s not done yet. When NEON turns around...

*CRACK!!!*

Noelle doubles her over with a shot to the ribs. She then raises the kendo stick high above her head before bringing it down hard across NEON’s back again.

*CRACK!!!*

Stephy Auger: Security! Where is security!? One of our proud grapplers is getting assault by a glorified fangirl! This is an outrage, Cruise! O-u-t-rage!

The crowd continues to cheer Noelle on as she swings for the fences, knocking NEON up the aisle and to the back with repeated shots with the kendo stick. Back in the ring, Sadie looks looks on with narrowed eyes before shaking her head at what just transpired. When The Pope turns around, she gets flattened with a standing Trauma Symphony (Boma Ye). Page then picks up Sadie, grabs her from behind and sends her crumbling to the canvas with the Concussion. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

“Murdered Out” blares throughout the arena.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, JIMMY PAGE!

After the match, Page gets his arm raised in victory.

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

The Vertigo feed cuts backstage and we find Spencer Burke standing by with Molly Reid. She’s wearing sweatpants and Irish Whip Clothing’s new Anniemaniac t-shirt, perhaps in support of her friend having left the company. Her Pride Championship belt is slung over her shoulder. She pushes her newly platinum colored hair out of her face as Spencer holds his microphone up.

Spencer Burke: Ladies and gentlemen I’m here backstage with Pride Champion Molly Reid. Molly, this is the third time already this year that you haven’t been scheduled to wrestle on a Vertigo show. Is there any reason for this?

Molly Reid: No idea Spencer. I don’t like it. I’m a wrestler because I love to wrestle. I don’t like coming to these shows and just having to sit back and watch. I wish I had a match tonight, I’d love to wrestle anyone in front of all these people. But, you know, I’m not going to complain about it. I’ve told management how I feel, and hopefully they’ll just keep giving me matches, otherwise I’m going to have to start making my own matches.

Spencer Burke: Molly, is it possible that they didn’t book you because of your tournament matches next week? You’re FGA’s only entrant in this years Rey del Aire tournament, with your first match coming this Friday night against James Lambert Jr., only on AxxessNet.

Molly Reid: Probably. It’s a big opportunity for me so personally I wish that I had a match this week to keep me fresh. But if that’s the reason then I get it. I’m FGA’s only entrant in a tournament hosted by them, so I’m sure they want me to succeed and represent the company well. And since I could have four matches in the span of two days, they probably wanted me well rested. So I get it. All I can do now is prepare myself for next week, to win the tournament for myself and this company.

Spencer Burke pushes the microphone up towards his mouth to ask another question but freezes; his eyes glaring past Molly with his mouth agape. She spins around to see Frankie Morrison and Chris Madison standing there patiently. Madison smirks while sporting his #NotMyPrideChampion Pro Grapple Tees short sleeve shirt, holding a cardboard box in his hands. Molly stares at the box, unsure yet intrigued by it’s contents.

Frankie Morrison: Sorry to interrupt...

Molly rolls her eyes as she’s forced to acknowledge Frankie and Chris, something she clearly wants no part of.

Molly Reid: What now?

Frankie Morrison: I guess we've officially moved on from the usual back and forth banter.

Morrison chuckles to himself for a split second, drawing the ire of the FGA Pride Champion.

Frankie Morrison: Honestly, we felt bad about the way things played out at the last Vertigo between the two of you. I never intended to get involved but your hands… Those sweaty palms… They mysteriously found a way down onto Chris’ shorts again during a pinfall. I just wanted to help the official out and give him an extra pair of eyes. Their jobs are hard enough as it is.

Molly Reid: And like I said, I let go as soon as it happened this time. You just couldn’t wait to jump in and help Chris pick up the win could you?

Frankie Morrison: You do realize that no matter what line of crap you spew our way, we’re not buying it. And those fans that fill the arenas show after show, they're beginning to not buy it either. You keep digging yourself further and further into this hole and eventually there's not going to be a way out… Plus, how’d you put it when you beat Dom Harter? You made a mistake and Chris capitalized!

Morrison catches himself before getting too worked up. Their intentions were never to get into another pissing match over in ring ethics.

Frankie Morrison: Things didn't play out the way you wanted during the beat the clock challenge. You lost to Chris and weren't in contention for a title match against Cordy. Knowing how much of a competitor you are, I'm sure none of that sits well with you. Chris wanted to put together this little gift box for you to keep your spirits up!

Molly rolls her eyes as she grits her teeth while looking at Frankie and Chris, and then down to the box in their hands. She hesitates for a moment.

Molly Reid: What is this?

Frankie Morrison: Oh, just some things that you could make useful…

Chris hands the box over to Molly Reid without revealing a shred of emotion. She hesitantly accepts the open cardboard box and begins to sift through its contents. She pulls out some alcohol-based hand sanitizer, then some hand wraps.

Molly Reid: Ha, ha, ha.

Molly continues sifting through the box and looking at all the things that Frankie and Chris have given her to help with her “sweaty hands” problem. Eventually, Molly gets frustrated and whips the box across the hallway into the wall, causing the remaining contents to spill out onto the floor. The cameraman zooms in to get a close up of the scattered items: baby powder, corn starch, unscented clinical strength antiperspirant, fight gloves, and an Iontophoresis system. Molly turns and faces Frankie and Chris with clenched teeth.

Molly Reid: Maybe this is all some kind of big joke to you guys, but I’m sick of it. I made a mistake and neither of you can let it go. But it’s time to move on. If you say I cheated to defend my title, then I say you cheated to beat the clock last show. So if that’s the case, then we’re even and I’m done with this. I’m done with this, I’m done with you, I’m done with everything. Just get out of my face before something happens. Move on.

Chris Madison: That’s the thanks I get for trying help you out with your problem?

Frankie Morrison: If I were you, I'd read the note that was on the bottom of that gift box.

Morrison chuckles as he pats Madison on the back. The pair turns around and walks away from Molly Reid and Spencer Burke; their laughs reverberating off of the concrete walls. Molly watches as they walk away before slowly walking over to the mess of items and bending down, picking up a note that came with all the items. As she reads it, the camera moves over her shoulder and zooms in on the note as well.

‘The Committee has granted Chris Madison another championship match at Only the Strong Survive. Not sure which of these remedies for sweaty hands will work best for you, but I'm sure you'll figure it out. Good luck champ.’

Molly stares at the note for a few moments, not saying a word. Eventually she crumples it up and tosses it against the way in anger. As she starts to walk away, Spencer catches up to her and stops her.

Spencer Burke: So Molly, do you have any thoughts on facing Chris Madison again at Only the Strong Survive?

Molly looks at Spencer and says nothing. She just pushes him out of her way and keeps walking down the hall and out of sight as Spencer regains his composure as we fade out.

[FGA Office]

We go to footage recorded earlier this evening of part of the night's Main Event and the current number one contender to the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship, AMIRA. The diminutive bleached blonde is pacing back and forth inside a locker room, twirling a pointer stick around in her hand. Behind her is an easel stand, which is covered up by a canvas at the current moment.

AMIRA: By all rights I should be upset by Francis' insistence on continuing to take petty shots at me.

She taps the pointer against the ground, shaking her head.

AMIRA: Continued disrespect after he interrupted my interview with SPENCAH BURKE following the last episode of Frontier Grappling Arts Verteego. An act! An act of brazen insolence, which admittedly did irritate me at the time. However, with a bit of reflection, I realize he did me a favor.

A twirl in place, pointing at the camera.

AMIRA: See, all he did was confirm once again that the masses are afraid for a powerful woman such as myself to seize the spotlight. AMIRA is bold and radiant after all, not "basic" as the young people say-- The molds, I break them! So to that, I say thank you Francis! Thank you for illuminating once again, that "they" do not want me to succeed.

Some heavy use of air quotes there.

AMIRA: I warn you though, Francis, do not continue testing my patience with your little potshots. Even if bringing up my ordeal proves my point even further! It's childish foolishness is what it is, although I will grant you having sympathy for the minions of the world makes some sense, given your past experience playing that role for your former leader-- Drake comma Malcolm. Because if you test my patience, you will feel AMIRA's wrath, I promise you that!

An arm is raised high in the air, following that proclamation.

AMIRA: It is not too late though, not too late to curry some favor and ensure your defeat comes with a modicum of grace. That the transition from Mid-Atlantic to Magnificent-AMIRA Legacy is not an embarrassing one for you. All you have to do is something very simple ...

She dramatically rips the canvas covering the easel stand away to reveal a set of blueprints on the stand.

AMIRA: Be a man unlike The Mexican and accept the Volcano Match!

Using the pointer, she draws attention to the diagrams displayed.

AMIRA: Here you see the blueprints for setting up a ring above my volcano. As you can see, I have set up some rigging, rather than having the ring suspended from an aircraft carrier. Always tinkering, always improving, looking for perfection, am I. Migrant workers are currently slaving awaaayyy to ensure the highest quality craftsmanship goes into said rigging.

A nod.

AMIRA: That is what makes AMIRA special, you see, I am not just content to possess a genius that no others do. I am constantly seeking to top myself, which is why the Magnificent-AMIRA Legacy Championship will truly know no bounds once I begin molding it in my image! And it is that tireless devotion to excellence which you will be encountering, Francis!

Narrowing her eyes, she walks forward.

AMIRA: For now though, take solace in your chance to meet me in a standard bingo hall ring, surrounded by partners who will draw attention away from the grave danger which awaits your Championship reign! But the time will soon come Francis! To face down the gaping maw of a volcano, or face down the knowledge that you are a coward! Oh yes, the time will soon come!

On that note, the video feed cuts to static and we pan out once again to the Tenacious Little Bastard, who had been watching that-- um, interesting-- video on a small monitor backstage.

Dom Harter: So that’s what happens when she thinks for herself…

He muses to himself, stroking his jaw as he begins to laugh. He grabs a nearby stage hand, bringing the shocked man into shot.

Dom Harter: Listen, I’ve got a main event to go win. But somebody needs to explain radiant heat to AMIRA before she hurts herself. Well, hurts herself worse than it does when she tries to think. Can you do that for me?

Stagehand: Sure…

Dom Harter: Attaboy! Now lets go team with three people who can’t stand the sight of me!

Harter proclaims, punching the air as he walks away towards the ring, leaving the bewildered stagehand behind to stare wide-eyed after the Mid-Atlantic Legacy champion.

[FGA Office]

Ricky Valero 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! He is “The Battle-Hardened Veteran”, CHRIIIIIIS BOOOOOOND!!!

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 through out 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: Chris Bond was unsuccessful in his match against Savannah Taylor back at Grapple Kingdom. But The Battle-Hardened Vet doesn’t stay down for long. He’s back on his feet and is looking to carry a bit of momentum into the Gold Rush Rumble.

Stephy Auger: He’s another one that’s too stupid to stay down. I guess him and that other fool Brian Stryker have that in common.

"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: And his opponent, from Staten Island, New York! Weighing in at 227 pounds… RIIIICKYYYYYY VAAAAAALEEEEEROOOOOO!!!

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 the start of the match.

Kris Cruise: Unlike Bond, Ricky Valero was victorious at Grapple Kingdom. However, his lost to Izzy Anders two weeks ago catapulted The Mindkiller into an Undisputed Championship Match. That means Valero now has to try his hand at winning the Gold Rush Rumble to get his shot.

The bell sounds as the two traveled veterans lock up. After jockeying for position, Valero moves Bond across the ring and towards the corner. While Valero presses Bond against the turnbuckles, the ref gives both men until a count of five to break it up.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

As soon as Bond raises his arms, the crowd boos when Valero sucker punches him with a blow to the midsection. The boos continue as Valero continues his assault with clubbing shots across the back of the neck. After standing Bond back up in the corner, Valero delivers three knife edge chops across the chest before sending him into the opposite corner. Valero rushes across the ring into the corner, but Bond knocks him back with a boot to the face. Valero runs back into the corner. But Bond knocks him back against with another boot to the face. Bond then comes out of the corner and goes to follow up with a running clothesline. But Valero ducks and runs into the ropes. When Valero returns, the crowd cheers after Bond throws him down with a back body drop. When Valero gets back up, Bond runs over and knocks him down with a clothesline. Valero returns to his feet, only to get returned to the mat by another clothesline. As Valero gets up and stumbles back, Bond runs over and sends him over the top rope and to the floor with yet another clothesline to a roar of cheers from the Charlotte crowd.

Kris Cruise: If that happens at the Gold Rush Rumble, Valero’s as good as gone!

Stephy Auger: He knows the rules, Cruise!

On the outside, Valeo tries to pick himself up using the ropes. While this is going on, Bond rolls to the outside and knees Valero in the ribs. He then turns Valero around before knocking him down to the canvas with a right hand. Bond reaches down, picks up Valero and slams him face-first onto the apron. Valero stumbles around ringside before rolling back into the ring. As soon as Bond rolls back in after him, Valero pounces on him and delivers several stomps to the midsection.

The boos continue as Valero reaches down, picks up Bond, marches into the corner and slams him face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning Bond around, Valero stomps Bond down in the corner before choking him with his foot. While the crowd is booing Valero, the ref gives him until the count of five to release the choke.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Valero lets go. After scraping his boot across Bond’s face, Valero reaches down, picks up Bond and piefaces him before sending him into the opposite corner. Valero then charges into the opposite corner to attack. Bond ducks the attack and dumps Valero over the top rope. But Valero lands safely on the floor. He then quickly reaches back in, yanks Bond down to the canvas and pulls him into the ring post.

Stephy Auger: HELLO!


While Bond is still down, Valero slides back in. After putting the boots to Bond, Valero drags him from out of the corner and heads into the ropes. When Valero returns, he delivers the Leg Drops of Jupiter (rally of consecutive leg drops) across the back of the neck. He then turns Bond over and makes the cover.

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

Valero picks up Bond, grabs him from the side and tries to set up a russian leg sweep. But Bond quickly reverses into a rolling knee bar, resulting in cheers from the crowd.

Stephy Auger: AH!

Kris Cruise: Bond’s got Misery locked on Valero!

The cheers continue while Valero howls in pain. The ref asks Valero if he wants to give up. But he refuses. He then does his best to pull himself over towards the side of the ring. After Valero reaches out and grabs the bottom rope, the crowd boos when the ref gives Bond until the count of five to break the hold.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Bond lets go.

Bond picks up Valero, lifts him up and delivers a shinbreaker. Valero can be seen limping across the ring until Bond kicks his left leg out from under him. He then drags Valero towards the center of the ring, lifts up the leg leg and delivers an elbow drop to it. While Bond tries to bend the leg, Valero slowly sits up and gouges Bond’s eyes from behind. The ref then gives Valero until a count of five to let go.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Valero lets go.

While Bond is still covering his eyes, Valero slowly gets back to his feet. He then begins to gingerly walk across the ring. As he sees Bond sitting up, Valero heads over and puts the boots to him. He then reaches down, picks up Bond and nails him with a knee strike to the midsection before bringing him down with a swinging neckbreaker. He makes the cover.

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

Valero picks up Bond and whips him into the ropes. When Bond returns, Valero sets up for a back body drop. But Bond stops, grabs Valero, runs and tosses him out onto the apron. He then reaches through the ropes, grabs Valero and sets him up for the Rejection (rope-hung DDT). But Valero steps back in, lifts up Bond and hotshot shim across the top rope. The boos continue while Valero makes the cover.

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

Kris Cruise: Good counter there by Valero, who was seconds away from getting driven head-first into the mat.

Valero picks up Bond and goes for an irish whip. But Bond reverses, sending Valero into the ropes. When Valero returns, the crowd cheers when Bond scoops him up from the side and hits a jumping backbreaker. He makes the cover.

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

Bond picks up Valero, doubles him over with a knee to the midsection and follows up with a gutwrench suplex. The crowd cheers while Bond turns over and makes the cover.

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

Kris Cruise: Another nearfall for The Battle-Hardened Veteran!

Bond picks up Valero and goes for an irish whip. But Valero reverses, sending Bond into the ropes. When Bond returns, the crowd cheers when he throws Valero down with an STO. He makes the cover.

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

Bond picks up Valero and whips him into the corner. He then rushes into the corner, connects with a clothesline and goes for a running bulldog out of the corner. But Valero shoves Bond off of him and into the ropes. When Bond returns, Valero goes for a leapfrog. But Bond catches him in mid air and throws him down with a spinning spinebuster to an explosion of cheers.

Kris Cruise: Good God, what a spinebuster that was from Bond!

Bond rolls across Valero and hooks the leg.

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

The crowd boos when Valero gets his shoulder up.

Stephy Auger: C’mon Ricky, you’ve got this.

Bond picks up Valero, lifts him up and sits him down on the top turnbuckle. Bond then climbs up onto the second ropes, grabs Valero and goes for a superplex. But Valero blocks. So Bond tries to muscle him up for another superplex attempt. But again, Valero blocks. So Bond lets go and throws out a right hand. Valero comes back with a punch of his own. Bond then nails Valero with another right hand. Valero comes back with one of his own. When Bond goes to throw out another right hand, Valero blocks and counters with a punch of his own. He then rakes Bond across the eyes to a round of boos from the crowd before shoving him down to the canvas. From there, Valero stands up on the top turnbuckle, leaps off and crashes down across Bond with a diving double foot stomp.

Stephy Auger: Burying the Hatchet! It’s over, Cruise!


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

The crowd cheers when Bond gets his shoulder up.

Stephy Auger: WHAT!?

Kris Cruise: Bond’s not done yet!

Valero sits up Bond and applies a rear chinlock. The ref gets down and asks Bond if he wants to give up. When he refuses to quit, Valero pulls back on the hold.

Crowd: “LET’S GO, BOND!” “LET’S GO, BOND!” “LET’S GO, BOND!”

As the crowd begins to chant for Bond, Bond begins to feed off their energy. So he slowly turns over and gets on his knees. Valero can be seen shaking his head in disbelief when Bond returns to a vertical base. After four elbows to the midsection, Bond runs into the ropes. When Bond returns, he throws out a running lariat. But Valero ducks. When Bond turns around…

Stephy Auger: Pelé Kick!

While Bond is dazed, Valero turns him around, grabs him from behind and throws him down with the PinnaclePlex (release Regal Plex).

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

The crowd cheers when Bond gets his shoulder up. Valero looks at the the ref in disbelief.

Stephy Auger: How was that not three, Cruise!? HOW!?

Valero picks up Bond and whips him into the ropes. When Bond returns, Valero throws out a superkick. But Bond catches his foot. He then swings Valero’s leg away from him, grabs him from behind and delivers a release German Suplex!

Kris Cruise: What a counter by Bond!

Bond picks up Valero, turns and tosses him through the ropes and onto the apron. He then reaches through the ropes, grabs Valero, drags him into position and plants him with the Rejection to an explosion of cheers!

Kris Cruise: Face-first into the canvas goes Valero!

Stephy Auger: No, no, no...

Bond picks up Valero, gets him in position and brings him down with the End of Days (Flatliner)! The cheers continue while he makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd cheers when “You Know My Name” hits the speakers.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, CHRIS BOND!

The cheers continue as Bond gets his arm raised in victory.

Kris Cruise: Chris Bond picks up a much needed win here in 2016 with a victory over Ricky Valero! That’s now back to back losses for Valero, Stephy. I bet that doesn’t feel too good for someone as cocky as Valero.

Stephy Auger: Try not to sound so happy when Valero loses, okay?

Bond gets on the apron and poses to another round of cheers. But the cheers quickly turn to boos when Valero runs over and delivers a front dropkick to the back, sending Bond tumbling over the top rope and to the floor.

Kris Cruise: What the heck was that for?

The boos continue as Valero rolls to the outside and puts the boots to Bond. Valero reaches down, picks up Bond and slams him face-first into the ring steps three times. He then takes Bond and rolls him back into the ring. After sliding back inside, Valero turns Bond over and locks him in an arm trap cross-legged STF.

Kris Cruise: The Rally Killer! Valero’s got The Rally Killer applied.

Bond can be heard groaning in pain while Valero pulls back as hard as he can. The Charlotte crowd continue to boo Valero for his post-match attack. But the boos turn to cheers when Own Gonsalves runs down the aisle.

Kris Cruise: It’s Owen Gonsalves!

Stephy Auger: Who let that twig back in here!?

As soon as Gonsalves slides back into the ring, Valero immediately lets go of The Rally Killer. Gonsalves rushes over and grabs one of Valero’s legs. But Valero is able to slip through Gonsalves’ grasp and escape to the outside. The boos continue as Valero rounds the ring post and heads up the aisle. Gonsalves can be seen climbing up onto the middle ropes and pointing out at Valero. In returns, Valero shakes his head...

[ COMMERCIAL BREAK ]

[FGA Office]

Kris Cruise: We’re a little under a month away from the Gold Rush Rumble, Stephy. It’s one of the biggest matches in FGA history and its back once again at Only the Strong Survive! A ton of names were already announced in the days and weeks leading up to tonight. Earlier tonight, Chandler Scott threw his name into the mix! In addition to him, I can proudly announce that the reigning FGA Pride Champion Molly Reid, Chris Madison, Mistress Ai, Sadie San Francisco, NEON, Owen Gonsalves, Julian Tijerina, Blake Rogers, Daniel Widdel and Stunray have just been confirmed for the Rumble! That brings our grand total up to 21! There’s only nine spots left, Stephy!

Stephy Auger: Those rumble spots are starting to fill up fast. I’ve been told that four more names will be announced on Monday. By the next Vertigo show, roughly all 30 participants, excluding the mystery entrant, should be known. This opportunity only comes along once a year. The winner of this match will go on to All-Star Showdown VI, where they will face either Cordy Stevenson or Izzy Anders in the main event for the FGA Undisputed Championship!

Kris Cruise: I can also confirm that the mystery entrant is not Heather Lasiewicz. Although the Pretty Lil Texan, as was reported last night, will be coming out of retirement and making her in-ring return in just a little over a month! She’ll be taking on none other than Dom Harter!

Stephy Auger: Why does he get to be her return opponent? Why does he get to have that honor?

Kris Cruise: You’re worried about all the wrong things, Stephy. Heather Lasiewicz is a legend in this business and her in-ring return will be right here on Vertigo on April 29! We haven’t seen Heather in an FGA ring in years. Heck, the last time Heather wrestled in FGA, we didn’t even work here! I think I speak for the both of us when I say that it will be an honor to call that match. All of us here in FGA will be looking forward to that huge return. But right now, we’ve got an 8-Man Tag Team Match to call! It’s time for “Champions vs. Challengers”! So let’s send it on over to the ring for your main event!

[FGA Office]

MAIN EVENT
“Champions vs. Challengers” 8-Man Tag
Cordy Stevenson, Dom Harter, The Usual Suspects
vs.
Izzy Anders, AMIRA, Elysian Empire

“Adrenaline” by Nine Lashes sounds out from the speakers and the fans excitedly jump to their feet. The lights begin to flicker as the opening guitar rift sounds out. The Elysian Empire make their way from the behind the curtain led by Effie Elysian. Emery and Elon bump fist as Effie presents them to the cheering crowd. They flex their muscles to the crowd before making their way down the ramp.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest, scheduled for one fall, is your main event of the evening and it is a “Champions vs. Challengers” 8-Man Tag! Introducing first, being accompanied to the ring by Effie Elysian! Weighing in at a total combined weight of 495 pounds! They are the team of Emery and Elon Elysian… THEEEE ELYYYSSSIIIAAAAN EMMMMMPIIIIIIRE!!!

Elon slides into the ring while Emery takes the ring steps. Effie takes the steps as well and Emery sits on the second rope allowing Effie to easily enter the ring. Elon has already begun to stretch using the ropes and turnbuckle. Emery joins him as Effie begins to coach her brothers up. As they stretch the music begins to fade. The brothers bump fists once more as the bell rings.

J.A. Aldridge: Their partner, from Los Angeles, California! Weighing in at 143 pounds…. AAAAAAAMIIIIIIIRAAAAA!!!

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

AMIRA

AMIIIRRAAA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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: And their partner, 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.

Dimebag Darrell’s building rift of “Cowboys from Hell” by Pantera abruptly begins over the PA system and the fans rise in anticipation of The Usual Suspects. The song begins its heavy thrashing as the dual guitars begin their monstrous battle for supremacy as the arena lights dim. A red spotlight shines on the black curtains and the fog begins to rise when Phil Anselmo’s screaming vocals begin…

Oh…COME ON!!!

Anthony Rother steps through the curtains dressed in one of his usual suits, holding his leather briefcase that he claims is only protecting contracts with FGA Management. Marx & Tryon step out from the entrance and stand in front of the smoked out curtains as the house lights return to brightness.

Under the lights where we stand tall
Nobody touches us at all
Showdown, shootout, spread fear within, without
We’re gonna take what’s ours to have
Spread the word throughout the land
They say the bad guys wear black
We’re tagged and can’t turn back

Both men are dawning black hooded sweatshirts that obscure their face over their singlets. The trio stare out into the crowd, take in boos, and then begin walking to the ring. Rother jaws with a few of the fans in the aisle way.

J.A. Aldridge: And their opponents! Introducing first, being accompanied to the ring by Anthony Rother. Weighing in at a total combined weight of 462 pounds! They are the reigning FGA World Tag Team Champions, THE UUUUUSUAAAAAL SUUUUUSPEEEEECTS!!!

You see us comin’
And you all together run for cover
We’re taking over this town

The two men pause at the base of the ring apron as Rother ascends into the ring and steps through the ropes.

Here we come reach for your gun
And you better listen well my friend, you see
It’s been slow down below,
Aimed at you we’re the cowboys from hell

Both men hop up onto the ring apron next and enter through the ropes as the music begins to fade. They begin removing their shirts as Rother begins a brief coaching session.

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 Charlotte.

J.A. Aldridge: And their partner, from Cambridge, Ontario, Canada! Weighing in at 225 pounds! He is the reigning FGA Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion, DOOOOOM HAAAAAAAARTERRRRR!!!

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.

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.

I’m on a new level

I’m on it, I’m on it

As the beat drops, the crowd gives a loud pop as Cordelia Stevenson emerges from the mist with a bounce in her step and dancing to the music. She comes to a stop atop the walkway, glancing around and taking in the reception before giving the crowd a warm smile. She rolls her neck around before bowing her head and letting her hair fall in front of her face. A few seconds go by before she snaps her head up, whipping her hair back from in front of her face.

J.A. Aldridge: And their partner, from Freeport, Long Island! Weighing in at 146 pounds! She is the reigning FGA Undisputed Champion, COOOOORDYYYYY STEEEEEEVEEEEENSOOOON!!!

She continues on down the ramp, working from side to side with a big smile as she slaps the hands of fans along the way. She gets to the ring and hops up onto the apron, mouthing the words and bouncing to the music as she makes her way around the side, towards the middle. She turns and faces her crowd, stretching her arms out to the side and slightly tilting her head backwards as she soaks in their reaction. She gives them an appreciative nod and blows a kiss at them, before stepping into the ring and making her way over towards the opposite turnbuckle. She quickly hops up and holds her arms out, drawing a reaction from that side of the crowd as well. She unzips her hoodie and tosses it away before hopping down and making her way over to her corner as the music dies down.

The bell sounds as Anders opts to start things off for her side. On the other side of the ring, it’s between Stevenson and Harter as The Usual Suspects step out onto the apron. After talking things over, Stevenson opts to let Harter start things off for their side. The FGA Undisputed Champion then steps out onto the apron. The ring post in the corner separates the Undisputed Champion from the Tag Champs.

Kris Cruise: Well how about that? It looks like Dom Harter and Izzy Anders are going to start things off, Stephy! Do you remember what happened the last time these two were in the ring?

Stephy Auger: Don’t remind me and DEFINITELY don’t remind Izzy.

The two rivals circle the ring while the crowd claps and starts up a “HARTER HITS HARDER!!!” chant.

Kris Cruise: I never thought I’d see the day when the crowd would embrace someone like Dom Harter, but here we are. This reaction must make Izzy Anders feel like she’s in Bizarro World.

Stephy Auger: I’m pretty sure it makes her sic to her stomach.

The two continue to circle the ring until Anders stops and points over at Stevenson.

Stephy Auger: As much as Izzy would love to rip Harter’s arm out of its socket and beat him over the head with it, there’s an Undisputed Champion standing across the ring that she’s just dying to show up.

Kris Cruise: If Cordy obliges, we won’t have to wait until Only The Strong Survive!

Harter points over to Stevenson, which results in an explosion of cheers. Harter flashes his signature smirk as he turns to tag in Stevenson. While Harter’s got his back turned, Anders jumps at the opportunity to jump him from behind. But The Tenacious Little Bastard knew it was coming, so he greets Anders with a back elbow to the face.

Kris Cruise: Harter knew better than to turn his back on Anders!

The cheers continue as Harter grabs Anders and sends her stumbling back into the ropes with a headbutt. After delivering two knife edge chops, Harter takes Anders and whips her into the far ropes. When Anders returns, Harter goes for a back body drop. But Anders slips down from behind. She then quickly grabs Harter from behind before knocking him down with the Black Song (hammerlock spun into a lariat). The crowd boos as Anders sneers as Harter before putting the boots to him.

Kris Cruise: There’s definitely no love lost between these two.

Stephy Auger: You think? I don’t think there’s a day that goes by where Anders doesn’t regret putting Harter out of his misery.

The boos continue as Anders mounts herself on top of Harter and rains down right hands at the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion. Harter tries to cover up, but some of the blow still penetrate his defense. Anders returns back to her feet and goes back to stomping away on Harter until she pulls him back up. She takes Harter, marches into the corner and slams him face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning Harter around, Anders slaps the taste out of Harter’s mouth. She then waves Harter on before slapping him across the face again. However, the boos quickly turn to cheers when Harter returns the favor and slaps the taste out of Ander’s mouth. Frustrated, Anders spits right in Harter’s face to an eruption of boos.

Kris Cruise: Talk about disrespect! How low can someone go!?

Stephy Auger: Ask Dom Harter, I’m sure he’ll tell you!

Enraged, Harter takes a swipe at Anders. But Anders ducks the haymaker and responds with ora ora ora (machine gun punches in the corner). After those series of punches send Harter slumping down in the corner, Anders switches things up and goes back to stomping away at the chest of Harter. She then chokes him with her foot.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Anders lets go… only to choke Harter again. This time, she pulls down on the top rope. The crowd erupts with boos.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Anders reluctantly lets go. While “IZZY SUCKS!!!” chants echo throughout the arena, The Mindkiller turns and stares at the Undisputed Champion. But Saint Sexy doesn’t back down from Anders’ menacing gaze. Anders cracks a smirk as she reaches down and pulls Harter back to his feet. From there, she takes The Tenacious Little Bastard and whips him hard into the opposite corner. While Harter arches his back upon impact, Anders charges across the ring. She then hurls herself at Harter with a running European Uppercut. But Harter’s able to move out of the way, sending Anders crashing into the corner to an explosion of cheers.

Kris Cruise: Nobody’s home!

Harter takes Anders and whips her back into the previous corner. He then runs across the ring, hurls himself at Anders and connects with a double knee strike. The crowd cheers as Anders crumbles from out of the corner. He makes the cover.

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

After an arm wrench, Harter drags Anders over and tags in Stevenson. The crowd explodes with cheers when Stevenson steps into the crowd.

Kris Cruise: This crowd nearly blow the roof off after seeing Cordy Stevenson get tagged in for the first time here tonight.

Stephy Auger: You would think Stevenson would want to save this beat down she’s about to get for Only the Strong Survive. With the mood Anders is in after that exchange with Harter, Stevenson might not even make it to the Pay Per View.

The crowd is at a fever pitch as the Undisputed Champion and her number one contender circle the ring. The two then stop and size each other up. They’re about to head to the center of the ring and lock up… when AMIRA slaps Anders across the back, tagging herself in.

Kris Cruise: What!?

The crowd erupts with boos as AMIRA steps into the ring, denying the crowd of seeing a preview of the upcoming Undisputed Championship Match.

Stephy Auger: It looks like AMIRA just did Cordy Stevenson a favor.

The Undisputed Champion and the number one contender to the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion circle the ring before locking up. After jockeying for position, it AMIRA that gains the advantage with a side headlock. Stevenson tries to shove AMIRA off of her, but it’s to no avail. So she grabs AMIRA around the waist, takes a few steps back and then goes to shove AMIRA off of her. But again, it’s to no avail as AMIRA drops to her knee while keeping the hold applying. Stevenson can be heard groaning while AMIRA wrenches on the hold. The ref gets down and asks Stevenson if she wants to give up. But the Undisputed Champion refuses. After battling back to her feet, she nails AMIRA wit three forearm shots to the side before going for a belly to back suplex. But AMIRA rolls over Stevenson’s shoulder, lands on her feet, spins Stevenson around and catches her in another side headlock.

The ref asks Stevenson if she wants to give up. After she refuses, she grabs AMIRA and throws her down with a Teardrop Suplex. She makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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AMIRA kicks out.

Stevenson picks up AMIRA and whips her into the ropes. When AMIRA returns, Stevenson leapfrogs over her. AMIRA then continues to run into the ropes. When AMIRA returns, Stevenson brings her down with a drop toe hold, rolls over and locks on a side headlock over her own. The ref then gets down and asks AMIRA if she wants to give up. But she refuses. After battling back to her feet, she uses her right arm to reach up, grab Stevenson’s hair and pull her into the ropes. The ref then goes over and gives Stevenson until the count of five to release the hold.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

As soon as Stevenson releases the hold, the crowd boos when AMIRA doubles her over with a shoulder thrust. After quickly stepping out onto the apron, AMIRA pulls Stevenson through the ropes and nails her with a series of knee lifts, followed by a scissors kick. The crowd boos as AMIRA steps back into the ring and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Stevenson gets her shoulder up.

AMIRA picks up Stevenson, moves her into the corner and delivers three knife edge chops. She then whips Stevenson across the ring. After sizing up the champ, the crowd boos when AMIRA runs across the ring and connects with a corner cartwheel jumping high kick. After Stevenson crumbles from out of the corner, AMIRA makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Stevenson gets her shoulder up.

Stephy Auger: Get used to this, Cruise. This isn’t the only champion that AMIRA will be having her way with!


AMIRA picks up Stevenson, moves her back into the corner and delivers three more chops. She then goes for an irish whip. But Stevenson reverses, sending AMIRA into the corner. Stevenson then follows up with a handspring back elbow, followed by a running bulldog out of the corner. The cheers continue as Stevenson makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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AMIRA kicks out.

Stevenson picks up AMIRA and goes for an irish whip. But AMIRA reverses, sending Stevenson into the ropes. When the Undisputed Champ returns, the crowd cheers when she knocks AMIRA down with a spinning heel kick. She makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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AMIRA gets her shoulder up.

Stevenson picks up AMIRA, heads into the corner and slams her face-first into the top turnbuckle before tagging Harter back in. The crowd cheers when Harter gets back in, takes AMIRA and slams her face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning AMIRA around, Harter delivers a series of shoulder thrusts before stomping her down in the corner. Harter then pulls AMIRA back up, brings her from out of the corner and whips her into the ropes. While Harter sets up for a back body drop, Anders makes the blind tag. When AMIRA comes back, she hops over Harter. When Harter stands up and turns around, Anders rushes from behind and brings him down with a jumping leg lariat. The boos continue as Anders pulls Harter over and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Harter gets his shoulder up.

Anders picks up Harter, hammerlocks his arm, runs and throws him into the turnbuckles. As Harter stumbles back, Anders turns him around before delivering a double knee armbreaker. The crowd boos after Harter’s arm bounces off of Anders’ knees. Harter wisely rolls himself to the outside and nurses his arm.

While Harter’s on the outside, Anders smirks before running into the far ropes. When she returns, she slams on the brakes when she sees AMIRA with her hands out in front of her.

Stephy Auger: What is AMIRA doing?


Kris Cruise: You’re not the first person to ask that question and you definitely won’t be the last.

While Anders gives AMIRA a confused look, AMIRA runs past Anders and into the far ropes. When AMIRA returns, she runs past Anders again, hurls herself through the ropes and knocks Harter down from behind with an elbow suicida. The crowd boos as the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion and his challenger lay on the floor.

As Anders watches Harter get taken out, Stevenson is climbing the turnbuckles from behind.

Kris Cruise: She’s setting up for Get Familiar and Izzy Anders is none the wiser!

While Stevenson looks to catch an unsuspecting Anders with Get Familiar, the surprise attack is quickly foiled when Rother shouts at Anders to look out. Anders spins on a dime and sees Stevenson crouched down on the top turnbuckle.

Kris Cruise: What a little rat!

The Mindkiller rushes into the corner to knock Stevenson off. But Stevenson is able to jump off before Anders can knock her off. After Stevenson lands on the mat, her momentum sends her rolling forward. When Stevenson gets back up and turns around, Anders runs over and throws out a lariat. But Stevenson ducks and runs into the far ropes. When Stevenson returns, she throws out a running clothesline. But Anders ducks. Both Champion and Challenger head into opposite sets of ropes. When they return towards the center of the ring, they each connect with a running clothesline, knocking each other down and nearly knocking the wind out of each other in the process.

Kris Cruise: My God, what a collision!

Stephy Auger: They both might be out!

While champion and challenger are down, the referee stands in the middle of the ring and begins his count

ONE!






TWO!






THREE!






FOUR!






FIVE!






SIX!






SEVEN!






…until he’s distracted from his count by a sound both epic yet familiar, namely the sound of John Bonham pounding out the intro to “When the Levee Breaks” which causes him to forget about the count for a moment and do what the rest of the Spectrum Center is doing and turn his attention towards the entranceway

Kris Cruise: I know whose these music that is!

Stephy Auger: So do I! But what’s he doing out here? Shouldn’t he still be in Queens licking his wounds?

At this point Johnny Karma walks out onto the ramp in his street clothes with Cherry Baum by his side, a microphone in his hand and no doubt a few dozen words on his mind

Kris Cruise: The Karmic Lion’s got a live mic!

Stephy Auger: Quick! Fire up Yiddish Dictionary for me so I can at least understand what the heck he’s about to say.

Pausing to remove his jacket and unbutton the top button of his shirt, Karma looks towards the ring as the referee gestures towards him that he really shouldn’t be out there during a match – which Karma flat ignores

Johnny Karma: Unless I misread what I saw, it looks like Cordy Stevenson has a contender for the title she holds. Now that can’t be right, after all, if you’re looking for a contender for the number one title in this company, shouldn’t you be looking for the guy who put up with anything and everything The New Kings could throw at him, but still managed to run them out the door?

The ref turns to check on the competitors in the match, but at this point he has no idea if any of them got to their feet, so he throws his arms in the air and just lets whatever’s going to happen happen.

Johnny Karma: But if Cordy’s more interested in giving title matches to people who walked out the door because people said really, really mean things instead of someone who actually stuck around long enough to deal with their problems, then here’s a solution: there’s another way to guarantee the number one contender spot that’s right around the corner, and while a whole bunch of names have been announced for it there’s one name that’s been missing from the list – MINE.

With the last comment hanging in the air for a moment, Cordy Stevenson stirs on the mat and sits up, looking towards Karma as she tries to figure out what the hell’s going on

Johnny Karma: I know you’re going to be quick to remind me that we crossed paths before, and both times you came out on top, but that was then and this is now, and if I have to go through every single opponent in the Gold Rush Rumble to get a third match against you…

Regaining her senses, Cordy turns over and makes the cover on Izzy, causing the ref to spark back into life and make the count

ONE!
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TWO!
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Izzy gets her shoulder up, at which point Karma clears his throat.

Johnny Karma: As I was saying before I was so rudely interrupted…given the experience I have with That Darned Numbers Game, something the shtshur over there is happy to benefit from…

Karma points an accusing finger in the direction of Izzy Anders, who slowly picks herself up off the canvas. She looks in his direction and doesn’t seem happy to see Karma out there .

Johnny Karma: …that’s given me more than enough practice for the Gold Rush Rumble, and this time when I face you it won’t be for a spot in the Frontier Lions Cup, it’s going to be for that title you hold and I’ve come so close to holding twice before, and believe me when I say that I am not going 0-3 to you or in matches for that title.

Having said what he intended to say, Karma and Cherry are about to turn and head to the back…when Karma pauses, looks to Cherry, then the pair turn back towards the ring. After three right hands to the face, Cordy takes Izzy and goes for an irish whip. But Izzy reverses, follows Cordy into the corner and nearly takes her head off with a running European Uppercut.

Johnny Karma: I almost forgot about you, the number one contender, who last I heard was so busy saying how much of a bond they have with Savannah Taylor…but only when it suits you. You’re probably thinking you got one over me at Grapple Kingdom and you think that’s that, but if you somehow manage to win the title, when I win the Gold Rush Rumble I’ll be coming for you, and you gave me all the incentive I need to take that title off you. Just remember that.

Back in the ring, Anders picks up Stevenson, lifts her up onto her shoulders and goes for a running powerbomb to the outside. But Stevenson is able to perfectly time a hurricanrana, sending Anders tumbling over the top rope and to the floor while she hangs onto the top rope.

Stephy Auger: Oh no! Izzy!

The Undisputed Champ “skins the cat”, pulling herself back into the ring to cheers from the crowd. While Anders tries to pick herself up off the floor, Stevenson turns and runs into the far ropes. When Stevenson returns, the crowd erupts with boos when The Usual Suspects lift her up and throw her down with a double spinebuster.

Kris Cruise: What in the hell was that for!? That’s their tag team partner for the match!

Stephy Auger: The Suspects would never willingly help Stevenson or Harter! They only have one allegiance and that’s to each other!

The boos continue as the Suspects put the boots to the Undisputed Champion. But the boos soon turn to cheers when the Elysian Empire rush the ring and attack. Emery takes Tryon and brings him into one corner while Elon punches Marx into the opposite corner.

On the outside, AMIRA takes Harter and whips him down the ringside area and into the guardrail. While Harter arches his back against the rail, AMIRA sizes him up before pointing down at ringside at him. She then charges down ringside to attack Harter. But Harter counter with an overhead belly to belly suplex, sending AMIRA over the guardrail and into the crowd!!!

Back in the ring, the Empire take the Suspects and whip them hard into each other. After the Suspects collide in the center of the ring and stumble back, Elon grabs Marx from behind, runs and tosses him through the ropes and to the floor. Emery then takes Tryon and throws him down with an inverted powerslam. He then pulls Tryon over and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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.
Harter drags Emery to the outside. But he does it this not to save Tryon, but to save himself from taking a loss.

Harter takes Emery and whips him into the steel steps. After seeing his brother get sent into the steps, Elon reaches through the ropes, grabs Harter and pulls him up onto the apron. After turning Harter around and hooking his arms across the top ropes, Elon pulls Harter back and begins to deliver several clubbing shots across the chest. After the tenth club, Elon turns and runs into the far ropes. When Elon returns, he connects with a flying knee to the back, knocking Harter off the apron and to the floor.

Stevenson can be seen rolling back into the ring. She waves on Elon as he steps away from the ropes. Before he can turn around, Stevenson brings him down with a jumping reverse bulldog. The cheers continue as Stevenson gets back to her feet and heads into the ropes. When Stevenson returns, she delivers a rolling senton across Elon. While Elon’s curled up, Stevenson steps out onto the apron and scales to the top turnbuckle. Once Elon gets back to his feet, the crowd explodes with cheers when Stevenson connects with Get Familiar (The O-Face). She makes the cover.

Kris Cruise: That’s it! It’s over! It’s over! It’s over!

ONE!
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TWO!
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THRE-NO!

The crowd erupts with boos as Anders drags Stevenson to the floor. After scooping Stevenson across her shoulder, Anders runs forward and lawn darts her into the ring post. The crowd gasps as Stevenson’s face smacks off the post before she falls to the floor.

Kris Cruise: Izzy Anders just launched Cordy Stevenson head-first into the ring post!

Back inside the ring, Marx rolls back in, crawls over and makes the cover on Elon.

ONE!
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TWO!
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THR-NO!

AMIRA dives over and breaks up the pin.

Kris Cruise: Where did she come from!? Wasn’t she just chucked into the crowd not too long ago!?

AMIRA picks up Marx and goes for an irish whip. But Marx reverses, sending AMIRA into the corner. Marx rushes into the corner, but he gets turned around by a boot to the face. After hoisting herself up onto the middle ropes, AMIRA takes Marx, places him in an inverted front facelock and follows up with an inverted tornado DDT.

The boos continue while AMIRA gets up and waits for Marx to get into position. But while she’s waiting, Harter rolls in front behind, places her in an inverted front facelock and follows up with a reverse implant DDT.

Kris Cruise: Down goes AMIRA!

After Harter returns to his feet, Anders spins him around, doubles him over with a boot to the midsection, hooks both arms, lifts him up and plants him with Spin the Black Circle REDUX (double arm piledriver). The boos continue as Anders stomps Harter out of the ring.

Stephy Auger: She just dropped him right on his head, Cruise! It probably doesn’t feel as good as it did when she injured his shoulder. But I bet it still feels good nonetheless.

After Anders gets up and turns around, Stevenson comes out of nowhere knocks her through the ropes and to the floor with a jumping spinning back kick.

Kris Cruise: Cordy Stevenson just caught Izzy Anders with The Foot Fetish!

Stephy Auger: I don’t think she’s done, either...

As Anders, Harter, AMIRA and Marx slowly get up on the floor, Stevenson turns and takes off into the far ropes.

Kris Cruise: What is Cordy looking for here?

When Stevenson returns, she hurls herself over the top rope and wipes everyone out on the outside with a suicide plancha. The crowd explodes with cheers.

Kris Cruise: Cordy Stevenson just soared over the top rope before taking out everyone on the floor!!!

Tryon picks up Elon and rolls him back into the ring. After climbing up onto the apron, Tryon scales to the top turnbuckle and waits for Elon to get up. Rother can be seen cheering at the top of his lungs as he senses Tryon is moments away from victory. Once Elon returns to his feet and turns around, Tryon goes for a flying spinning heel kick. But Elon catches him in mid air! Rother gasps as Elon lifts Tryon up before slamming him down with the Elon Bomb (Thunder Fire Powerbomb). He makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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.
THREE!

The crowd cheers when “Adrenaline” blares through the speakers.

J.A. Aldridge: Here are your winners, the ELYSIAN EMPIRE, AMIRA, and IZZY ANDERS!

Elon and Emery raise each other's arms while the crowd continues to cheer.

Kris Cruise: Elon Elysian picks up the win for the Challengers! Will these two be victorious in two weeks right here on Vertigo when they challenge for the Tag Titles!? Will Izzy Anders and AMIRA be victorious in their title pursuits at Only the Strong Survive!? Or will the Champions bounce back? For Stephy Auger, this is Kris Cruise signing off! We’ll see you back here in two weeks on Vertigo!

The camera cuts to all the bodies laid out on the floor before fading to the Vertigo logo.