Vertigo (10.14.17)

[FGA Office]

[FGA Office]

¡Uno!
¡Dos!
¡Tres!
¡Catorce!


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


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



1st Bank Center
Broomfield, CO

“The Greatest” by Sia blasts over the loudspeakers throughout the arena as the crowd cheers turn to majority boos, although there are faint cheers heard as well. Molly Reid steps out onto the entrance ramp, dressed in street clothes and grinning slightly as she looks around at the crowd. She soaks in the boos, although does smile as she hears a cheer or two. Molly walks down the entrance ramp and climbs in the ring, standing in the center for a few moments as the crowd continues to serenade her with boos. Eventually Molly walks towards the corner of the ring and leans over, asking a crew member for a mic. Eventually she’s handed one and walks back to the middle of the ring.

Molly Reid: Awww do I hear some cheers out there?

Molly grins as the crowd boos loud enough to drown out any possible cheers.

Molly Reid: Relax, I’m not here to antagonize you jokers. I’m here because I’ve got something to say and you’re going to sit there, shut up, and listen.

The crowd boos loudly as Molly holds her hand in the air, waiting for them to settle down. The boos continue for a little bit before eventually subsiding enough for Molly to speak.

Molly Reid: Thank you. Now, as you all probably know, just about four weeks ago I checked myself into rehab. I don’t want to get to detailed because it’s personal and none of you need or deserve to know all the details. But I will simply say that I had a problem and I needed to deal with it. In fact, I had a few problems that I needed to deal with. And I don’t want to hear any of you whining about my life being so good that there’s no possible way I could have any kind of problems. Everyone has issues and everyone needs to deal with them. For the longest time, I was dealing with them the wrong way. But now, I’m trying to deal with them the right way.

The crowd stays mostly silent as they listen to what Molly has to say, which she notices by flashing a smile before turning back to a serious face.

Molly Reid: And don’t even get me started on some of the nonsense I’ve heard. It’s like idiots out there don’t know that not all rehab is the same. People can talk about how their rehab was no phones and never leaving and whatever the hell they want. But that’s not what I’ve been doing. I’m trying to lead as normal a life while avoiding the problems that plagued me for years before this. What the hell does being locked up in a room for two months do? It’s a situation that I would never be in on my own. Going to my wrestling events, interacting with friends and family on twitter, that’s my normal life. So they’re helping me get used to normal life without falling into the problems of the past, or relying on old crutches. And guess what, I’m adjusting. It’s not easy, I don’t expect any of you to understand or care, but that’s fine. I’ll keep doing what I’m doing and I’ll keep getting better and better.

Molly pauses for a moment as the crowd starts booing again at the implication that they don’t understand. Eventually she brings the mic back up.

Molly Reid: So now y’all know. Problems being dealt with. Not letting it affect my wrestling. In fact, if anything, it’s helping me. My head is clear and I can focus solely on this sport. And I think I proved that two weeks ago, didn’t I? Can I get a round of applause for your new Undisputed Championship number one contender? Wait, no. A round of applause for your next FGA Undisputed Champion!

The crowd boos loudly as Molly motions for the cheers. Molly pretends to look confused as she looks out at the crowd.

Molly Reid: Sure, boo me for surviving a twenty-grappler battle royal. Boo me for proving once again that I’m one of the best wrestlers in this company. Boo me for throwing your golden girl Fujiko Mine over that top rope. Well, actually, you can boo me for that one because I freaking love it.

Molly pauses for the boos before laughing.

Molly Reid: Predictable as always. And why are you booing? Is it because you don’t like me? Or is it because you don’t like Dom Harter?

The crowd boos louder than it has all night at the mention of Dom’s name. Molly nods her head sarcastically.

Molly Reid: Hmmmm, I suspected as much. So let me see if I’ve got it all. You’re all mad because I’m part of the New Murder right? You’re all mad because the New Murder used the number advantage to help me win the battle royal right?

The crowd boos and throws in some “YES” chants as Molly nods her head. Eventually she stops and looks at the crowd.

Molly Reid: But wait a sec guys. Stay woke on this, but we actually didn’t have a numbers advantage. There were four of us in that ring. And there were sixteen others! How the hell is that a numbers advantage? Y’all literally quadrupled us. Everyone in that ring knew we were going to be in that match from the start of the night. Everyone with half a damn brain should’ve known we’d have each other’s backs out there. And since everyone hates it, it should’ve been easy. Why didn’t any of you meet up backstage before the match and go “hey guys, let’s all team up and take out the New Murder first! Then we can battle it out by ourselves!” Cause see that would’ve been the smart thing to do. But none of y’all did that. Instead you decided that you’d each try to take us out single handed. Maybe a helper here and there. But that was never going to work. You think any one or two of you idiots backstage are good enough to beat four of the most talented wrestlers in the company? That’s on you for screwing that up. You don’t get to complain that I had help from my friends just because you were too stupid to get help yourself. You get to shut up and congratulate me for becoming the new number one contender for the FGA Undisputed Championship.

The crowd boos as Molly leans back and holds her arms to her side, motioning for the fans to lay it on her. Those fans happily oblige. Molly holds her pose for a moment before straightening up and looking out at the fans again.

Molly Reid: Because I won that match myself. I didn’t need any help to eliminate Fujiko from the ring for the last elimination. That was me. I keep telling you that I’m one of the best in this damn company. Look at what I’ve done the past year. Won the Pride Championship. Defended it twice. Made it to the top four in the Gold Rush Rumble. Beat Heather Lasiewicz. Now this. And pretty soon I’ll be able to say I also won the FGA Undisputed Championship. That’s a year and a half. Show me anyone who’s had a better year than that-

Cherry Baum: I believe I can...

Molly turns toward the entrance ramp upon hearing the interruption to see Johnny Karma and Cherry Baum stood there, and slung over Karma’s shoulder is the Undisputed Championship belt that she will be challenging for at Final Frontier - and the person who currently holds that belt has a few things to say to his soon-to-be challenger

Johnny Karma: Sorry, could you make it a little bit clearer: do you want people to congratulate you for being the person waiting for me in the ring in my hometown at Final Frontier or not, because you’re giving some mixed messages on that one.

As Karma begins to speak, Molly stands in the ring with her arms folded, looking in Karma’s direction with a displeased look on her face at the interruption

Johnny Karma: Don’t think I’m taking anything away from you, because no matter what anyone can argue one way or the other you're the one who came out of that battle royale with your arm raised and a title shot waiting for you.  But here’s something you should remember: it was just one match, so you better not break out the streamers and the air horns yet because you haven’t won anything, you just progressed from the semi-final.  Trust me, I know this more than you want to think, because three-and-a-half years ago I was the guy running around like a mazik when I won something against somebody, and if you want to make it a bit more contemporary I’ve been in your shoes when I won a battle royal to earn a shot at the title a couple of years back, and did that mean I automatically won the title or did it mean I had to find out the hard way I was just that little bit short of what was needed to win the title and needed to do more?  Because if you haven’t been paying attention, and at the risk of playing Top Trumps, there’s somebody on the roster who has had a better year than you - and you’re looking at him.

As the crowd cheer their approval at Karma’s last comment, he isn’t quite finished

Johnny Karma: I was going to take the high road and resist the urge to patsh Dom Harter by bringing up how he was so confident that he’d be beating me for the title, but judging by what you’ve been saying you’ve picked up a lot of his bad habits in a short space of time right down to assuming victory before a single wristlock’s been exchanged, I think it needs to be pointed out: I beat the leader of Heroes Never Die to win this title, I beat the leader of The New Murder to retain this title, so if you think it’s going to be a walk in the park you should probably have a word with the guy you're following down the wrong path and ask him about the time he said he’d be champion and walked out with nothing.  It shouldn’t be too hard for him to remember, since it was only a couple of weeks ago.

Molly Reid: Are you done?

Molly continues to hold her arms crossed and looks at Karma, waiting to see if he’ll say anything else. But before he can decide, Molly continues.

Molly Reid: Yeah, you’re done. First off, thank you for not taking anything away from my win! You’re already better than some of the idiots on this roster who questioned it. But those guys are nothing. You’re something. So thank you. But secondly, you need to stop. You all need to stop. It seems like everyone sees the New Murder as Dom Harter and a bunch of his lackeys doing whatever he says. Despite nobody having a clue as to how we operate. Newsflash. Dom Harter doesn’t tell me what to do. I tell myself what to do. Yes I’m part of the New Murder. Yes, Dom Harter and I work together. Key word, together. You guys want to make this exactly the same as before, like it’s one leader and his followers, but that simply is not the case. Dom knows how good I am. Dom knows he can’t boss me around. And he doesn’t want to. He and I trust each other and we both know that we’re going to do what’s best for each other and the New Murder. We help each other. But don’t compare me to him. I’m not following Dom Harter down a path. I’m making my own path, and Dom Harter is a part of it. That’s it. Everyone can shut the hell up about me being some kind of follower. There’s a reason I’m the number one contender for the Undisputed Championship. Me. Not him.

Molly shakes her head as the crowd continues to boo her and the mention of Dom Harter’s name. Molly holds her hand up, trying to get them to stop, before wagging a finger at Karma and Cherry.

Molly Reid: Also, I don’t want you to get the wrong idea Karma. I’ve got respect for you. I’m not going to lie to you and pretend you’re nothing to me because that’s not who I am. What you’ve done is impressive. Honestly, anyone who humiliates Izzy Anders so badly that she cries and quits the company earns a star in my books. After all the cheating she did to earn and defend that title, you took it away from her. Made her look pathetic and weak. I loved every second of it. So you better believe that I don’t think you’re just some walk in the park. I know what kind of competitor you are. And sure, you beat Dom. I’m not taking that away from you either. But you know who else beat Dom? Heather. And if you remember, two months later, I beat her. So this doesn’t have to be any different. If you don’t like the fact that I’m confident in myself, well then tough sh*t Karma. You’re a great champion, and sure maybe you actually have had a better year so far. I may not agree, but I can see where you’re coming from. But after Final Frontier, when I take that title from you in your hometown, in front of all your friends and family, there will be no doubt. Only one name will be uttered when the question of who had the better year is asked. Molly goddamn Reid.

Once Molly has said her piece Karma waits a moment to let the sting of what she said dissipate a little, while also making sure she doesn’t have a follow-up - and when he sees Molly looking at him in a way that’s asking for him to give his best shot, Karma obliges

Johnny Karma: So if The New Murder isn’t about following Dom Harter into hell, why is he going about bragging that I should be thankful that he didn't have the lot of you “shaft” me out of the title?  Was that him saying he let me win as he was licking his wounds, or was that him saying that when it all comes down to it he needs the rest of you to prop him up?  I guess that’s something else you need to have a word with him about, as it seems he has a different idea about what The New Murder is about than you do.

Karma pauses for a second as he looks directly at Molly, as if he’s checking to see if the last point registered and he’s looking for a reaction, but Molly merely shrugs it off so he continues

Johnny Karma: You’re on your own path and you and I both know where that path leads and, more importantly, the fact I’m at the end of the path waiting for you - but that’s the thing, it’s the end of your path.  I’m going to have friends and family there, but more than that I’m going to have my hometown seeing me walk in as the champion I always said I would be, and you might have forgotten this but I sure haven't but the fact I was left off a show in my hometown was the catalyst for pushing myself to be where I am now, so if you thought I was pushing myself against Izzy or Chandler or Dom you’re in for a surprise when I push myself even harder to stand victorious in front of my hometown.  That, Molly, is a promise that I know I can make, and that’s going to answer who had the better year.

Molly taps her foot impatiently as she stares at Karma’s championship belt for a few moments, before snapping out of it.

Molly Reid: By all means, please do. I want you to push yourself. I want the absolute best Johnny Karma that I can possibly get. That’ll make it sooo much sweeter when I Molly Kick your head off and take that title. My path doesn’t end with you Johnny. My path begins with you. The path of becoming the greatest wrestler that FGA has ever seen starts with me beating your ass at Final Frontier. You say that being left off a hometown show drove you to where you are now? After our match at Final Frontier Johnny, after I beat you and end your championship reign, you’re going to WISH that you were left off the show.

Molly drops the microphone and moves towards the ropes, yelling something inaudible at Karma and Cherry. Both just stand there, neither giving any kind of reaction. Karma continues to stare at Molly, before smirking slightly as an amused look washes over his face. The cameras fade out with a shot of the champion and his challenger staring daggers at each other.

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

Vertigo returns from the commercial break to see The New Murder members, Dom Harter, Jaelynn Ramsey, and Fenrys standing backstage with Spencer Burke. All three wrestlers are dressed in their leather jackets and bandanas, Dom and Fenrys wearing their ring attire underneath, whereas Jaelynn is dressed in a New Murder t-shirt and jeans.

Spencer Burke: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here with three members of The New Murder--

Dom Harter: That’s enough out of you…

Harter says as he grabs the microphone from Spencer’s hand, before Burke gets piefaced and pushed away out of shot. Fenrys can be seen laughing, whereas Jae just shakes her head and tuts under her breath.

Dom Harter: Look, I know what Spencer was going to say so his presence here … it really wasn’t necessary. He was going to tell me that I failed in my bid to become the FGA Undisputed champion, and insinuate - as only a smug little bastard can! - that Johnny Karma might be a better wrestler than me…

Dom looks to his fellow crows with an incredulous look on his face. Fenrys just shakes his head as Jae speaks up.

Jaelynn Ramsey: Spencer doesn’t know what he’s talking about.

Dom Harter: Damn right. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Johnny Karma is lucky that I didn’t pull an ‘Izzy’, and that I didn’t have my ‘lackeys’ screw him out of another title match. But where I stood here two weeks ago and said that Undisputed title was coming to The New Murder soon enough…

Jaelynn Ramsey: ...Molly wins the battle royal to become the new number one contender!

Fenrys rubs his hands together in excitement, nodding enthusiastically as Dom speaks again.

Dom Harter: And what a battle royal it was. Getting to watch Jimmy Page getting stomped down, and DDT’ed on the concrete. To see Lowri Moss get tossed over that top rope. My boy Fenrys here--

Harter wraps an arm around Fenrys’ shoulders.

Dom Harter: --tossed out both members of The Shootcamp! Him and Mercy proving once again that The New Murder are the superior faction here in FGA, proving that we rule Vertigo. And tonight you’re going to do the same damn thing, right?

Fenrys nods.

Dom Harter: And show Ace Watson that you mean business! That El Stravito got lucky a few weeks ago. That Luke Jackson fluked that victory two weeks ago! Because my boy Fenrys is going to the Frontier Lions Cup, not Ace Watson!

Fenrys goes to speak next, but Jaelynn cuts him off. He doesn’t look best pleased.

Jaelynn Ramsey: And how did it feel getting up close and personal, and cost Jimmy Page the victory that night?

Dom Harter: Oh so very sweet! And Jimmy Page knows that will always continue, because I will be that thorn that’s stuck in his paw for the rest of time. No good Samaritan can help you, Jimmy. No therapist, or cat, or whatever the hell else you’re doing to try and better yourself … Because you’ll never be as good as me. As good as us.

Dom gestures to the other members of The New Murder.

Dom Harter: But the best thing about the last show, was Molly hitting that Molly Kick and becoming the new number one contender to the FGA Undisputed title…

The crooked grin spreads across Dom’s face; the other members of The New Murder wear similar expressions - albeit under a mask in Fenrys’ case! - as they glance around at one another.

Dom Harter: ...and you have to wonder, Johnny Karma, will you be so lucky next time around? Because that Undisputed title will be ours soon enough, the FGA World Tag Team titles will be ours soon enough. The Fifteen Championship? The Pride title? Hell, when you’re back to full health you can take that Mid-Atlantic Legacy title from Lowri Moss … if she ever manages to win the big match when it matters!

Jaelynn Ramsey: I mean, she can beat the champion when they don’t have the belt anymore. But as soon as I’ve recovered I’ll take that belt from her, or Sadie, or whoever else has it, and bring it home to The New Murder.

Dom Harter: She makes me ashamed of my Welsh heritage, to be quite honest.

Fenrys looks towards Dom quizzically.

Dom Harter: I’m half Welsh on my father’s side. And the greatest wrestler of Welsh heritage to ever grace FGA! But tonight, my boy Fenrys will book his place in the Frontier Lions Cup. Mercy will take that next step as well. And me and Bond? We’ll make an example out of these Elysians, and put the rest of FGA on notice!

Dom drops the microphone, and poses with his arms outstretched. Fenrys does the same, but Jae has to prop herself up on the wall, and take some weight off that knee as the show cuts back to ringside.

[FGA Office]

• FRONTIER LIONS CUP (Qualifying Round) •
Flavia Rocha vs. Ymir Ocampos

The illustrious opening of "The Final Countdown" begins to play and the crowd is bathed in the splendid glow of gold lighting.

As the main riff begins rocking the arena, “Ymir of The Rain" appears amidst the fans. Back to us, feet placed wide apart and an arm reaching towards the heavens, the crowd roars. She wore supple hotpants, trendy sports bra-esque top, kneepads and shinguards (over black high boots), all a sheer confection of fine red and silver, and a funky pair of sunglasses.

Her high collared cape was her crowning glory; flashy, glamorous, and dazzling and a marvelous colour - the colour of blood and flame and sunsets. Spinning on her heel , Ymir Ocampos points to the cameras and poses for the fans. She proceeded to boldly wade through this huge sea of fans with more energy than a concert.

J.A. Aldridge: The following match is your opening contest of the evening! It is scheduled for one fall and it is a Qualifying Match for the 2017 Frontier Lions Cup! Introducing first, from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada! She is “Ymir of the Rain”... YMIIIIRRRRRRR OOOOOOCAAAAMPOOOOSSSSS!!!

Without pause, the fans sing the renowned lyrics as one when Ymir hits the ring. Leaping inside, her smile as bright as the noonday sun, she climbs a turnbuckle to pump an arm in the air and point a single index finger to the sky - an obvious challenge to whoever lurks in heaven.

Kris Cruise: Ymir Ocampos has a huge opportunity in front of her, Stephy! A win here this evening gets her into the 2017 Frontier Lions Cup!

Stephy Auger: She might have been able to defeat Susan Kent two weeks ago. But her opponent tonight is no Susan Kent. She’s someone that wants this just as badly, if not more so, than Ymir.

The opening guitar of “Bang Bang Bang” by Dorothy hits and Flavia Rocha emerges from the back. She flips her hood back and looks around the arena, walking down the aisle she raises her arms out and meanders back and forth bent over like she’s flying as she approaches the ring.

J.A. Aldridge: And her opponent, from Florianopolis, Brazil…. FLAAAAAVIAAAAA ROOOOOOCHHHHHAAAAA!!!

Climbing onto the apron she gives the crowd a thumbs up and slides through the ropes, whipping off her coat in a fluid motion and tossing it into the corner. She extends her index fingers high overhead together and then brings them down doing a 360 and pointing at the crowd before she lowers her arms and prepares for the match to start.

Kris Cruise: Some of FGA’s all-time greats have won the Frontier Lions Cup, including Flavia Rocha’s mentor, Sean Sands.

Stephy Auger: Can you imagine all of the pressure that has to be on Flavia right now? Sands won this tournament back in 2013. Now here we are, four years later, with his girlfriend trying to recreate his success. That’s a big cloud to have hanging over her head.

Kris Cruise: Flavia knew that the comparisons would be made when she joined FGA. But to her credit, she hasn’t shied away from the pressure.

The opening contest starts with Ocampos and Rocha shaking hands, which garners cheers from the crowd here in Broomfield. After circling the ring, the two rookies lock up. They jockey for position while inside the collar-and-elbow tie up. It is eventually Rocha who gains the upperhand as she begins to move Ocampos across the ring. But wait! Ocampos puts on the brakes and begins to overpower Rocha, moving her in the opposite direction. The crowd continues to cheer Ocampos as she moves Rocha into the ropes. With Rocha pressed against the ropes, the ref is quick to start a five count.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Both grapplers make a good, clean break. Once the hold is broken, Ocampos steps back towards the center of the ring and waits for Rocha. With there now being distance between the two, Rocha makes her way off the ropes. She slowly inches over towards Ocampos and motions for a lock up. When Ocampos falls for the fake, Rocha ducks under, goes behind Ocampos and clamps on a waist lock. Ocampos quickly reaches down and tries to pull Rocha’s arms from around her waist. But Rocha has her hands locked tightly together. So Ocampos reaches back and nails her with a quick elbow to the face. With the hold loosened, Ocampos is quick to break free, performs a standing switch and applies a waist lock of her own. The hold doesn’t stay on for long, though, as Rocha reaches down, pulls Ocampos’ hands apart and reverses into an arm wrench. Ocampos winces after being on the receiving end of another arm wrench. The ref asks if she wants to give up. But she’s not about to give up her shot at the FLC from a simple arm wrench. So she rolls forward, leans back, kips up and reverses into an arm wrench of her own. The tables have turned on the Sands protegé as she’s been given two more arm wrenches. The ref checks with her to ask if she’d like to quit. But like Ocampos, Rocha refuses. She rolls forward, turns over onto her knees, flips over with a headstand and reverses into another arm wrench. Ocampos then uses her free arm to move Rocha into the near ropes before shoving her off into the far ropes. When Rocha returns, Ocampos dives over to try to trip her up by falling into the prone position at her feet. But Rocha is able to hop over just in the nick of time before running into the far ropes. Upon her return, Ocampos leapfrogs over her. Rocha continues to run the ropes. When Rocha comes back again, Ocampos goes for a hip toss. But Rocha ends up stepping through it and goes to muscle Ocampos up for a hip toss of her own. But it gets blocked. Rocha goes for another hip toss. But again, it’s blocked. She then gets doubled over with a punch to the midsection. After draping her leg across the back of Rocha’s neck, Ocampos performs a backflip. As soon as she lands on her feet, Rocha takes her off her feet with a dropkick. The cheers continue as she makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
Ocampos kicks out.

Rocha brings Ocampos back to her feet and applies a side headlock. After an initial struggle, Ocampos shoves Rocha off into the ropes. When she returns, she knocks Ocampos down with a running shoulder block. She then runs into another set of ropes. When Rocha returns, Ocampos kips up and leapfrogs over her. Rochas continues to run the ropes. When she comes back, Ocampos goes for another hip toss. But again, Rocha steps through it. She then executes a hip toss of her own. But Ocampos bounces off the ropes and reverses into a handspring arm drag. After Rocha gets back to her feet, Ocampos rushes over and connects with a front dropkick, knocking her through the ropes and to the floor. While Rocha picks herself up on the floor, Ocampos takes off into the far ropes. When she returns, the crowd cheers when she brings Rochas to the floor with a baseball slide headscissors. Ocampos gets back to her feet and waits for Rochas to get in position. Once Rocha gets back to her feet, Ocampos brings her down with a slingshot hurricanrana!

Ocampos hops back up onto the apron before walking backwards towards the ring post. After Rocha returns to her feet, Ocampos runs along the apron before flattening Rochas with a running seated senton off the apron! Ocampos gets back to her feet. With her feet placed wide apart, she pumps an arm in the air and points a single index finger to the sky. The crowd continues to cheer Ocampos on… until they see Serpent’s Touch making their way down the aisle.

Kris Cruise: What are they doing out here? They’re not even scheduled to compete tonight!

Stephy Auger: It looks like Serpent’s Touch wants to get a better view of the action.

The sudden change in reaction causes Ocampos to grow concerned. She then turns around to see what the commotion is all about. Her eyes begin to narrow at the sight of Faye Valentine & Kimiko. Ocampos motions towards them. But Serpent’s Touch aren’t here for a confrontation, apparently. Instead, they make their way over to the announce table. Cruise is cautious as Valentine & Kimiko make their way over to him. Kimiko stands with her arms folded while Valentine pulls up a chair and sits down next to Cruise.

Stephy Auger: It’s a pleasure to have you guys here at the commentary table with us. Isn’t that right, Cruise?

Kris Cruise: Um… yeah… of course!

Stephy Auger: Don’t be so scared! They won’t bite

Ocampos gets the ref’s attention before pointing over to Serpent’s Touch. The ref tells her that while he understands the concern, Serpent’s Touch haven’t physically gotten involved in the match. Ocampos sighs before turning her attention back to Rocha. She picks up Rocha and rolls her back into the ring. As soon as Ocampos climbs onto the apron, she’s met with a shoulder thrust through the ropes. Rocha then grabs a hold of Ocampos before bringing her back inside with a vertical suplex. The cheers continue as she turns over into a lateral press.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Ocampos kicks out.

Rocha picks up Ocampos and nails her with a palm thrust before delivering an irish whip into the far ropes. When Ocampos returns, Rocha brings her down with a hurricanrana. She turns over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Ocampos kicks out.

Rocha picks up Ocampos, places her in a headlock and goes for a bulldog. But Ocampos shoves her off into the ropes. When Rocha returns, she throws out a bicycle kick. But Ocampos is able to roll underneath it. When Rocha turns around, Ocampos rolls back, wraps her legs around Rocha’s neck and brings her down with a headstand headscissors takedown. When Rocha gets back to a vertical base, Ocampos runs over, brings her down with a tilt-a-whirl headscissors and quickly transitions into a figure four necklock. The crowd cheers upon seeing the submission locked in. The ref asks Rocha is she wants to give up. Rocha refuses before quickly scooting herself over and sticking her foot underneath the bottom rope, initiating a rope break.

Kris Cruise: Rocha made it to the ropes!

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Ocampos scoots Rocha’s back, bringing her away from the ropes.

Stephy Auger: Ocampos just pulled her away from the ropes! Rocha thought she was safe!

The ref asks Rocha if she wants to give up. But again, Rocha refuses. She then reaches up and slowly pulls Ocampos’ legs from around her neck. While keeping a hold of one of Ocampos’ legs, Rocha quickly spins over onto her knees, gets back to a vertical base and turns her over into a single leg crab.

Kris Cruise: Nice reversal there from Rocha!

Stephy Auger: I’m sure you guys must love seeing this, isn’t that right?

Ocampos cringes while she’s trapped in the single leg crab. The ref gets down and asks her if she wants to give up. But Ocampos refuses. When she looks out at the ropes, she can see Valentine smirking from the commentary table.

Kris Cruise: She’s looking right over here at us!

Stephy Auger: Ocampos needs to be less concerned with Serpent’s Touch and more concerned with making it to the ropes!

Ocampos grits her teeth as she begins to pull herself across the ring. She reaches out… and grabs the bottom rope, which garners cheers from the crowd. When the ref tells Rocha that Ocampos has a hold of the ropes, she signs before releasing the hold. She turns around, picks up Ocampos and goes for an irish whip. But Ocampos reverses, sending her into the far ropes. When Rocha returns, Ocampos sets up for a back body drop. But Rocha counters with a kick to the face, standing Ocampos upright. She then goes for Face Meets Mat (jumping DDT). But Ocampos is able to catch her in mid air and counter with a bridging northern lights suplex to cheers and applause from the crowd.

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

Kris Cruise: What a counter by Ocampos!

Stephy Auger: Yeah, she almost stole this match right from Rocha!

Ocampos picks up Rocha, moves her into the corner and unleashes a series of shoot kicks to the chest. The thud from each kick is picked up by the camera. After delivering a blistering knife edge chop, she sends Rocha into the opposite corner with an irish whip. Ocampos runs across the ring to attack. But Rocha is able to duck and dump her over the top rope. Instead of crashing to the floor, Ocampos lands safely on the apron. She then reaches over the top rope and grabs Rocha to set up a German Suplex off the apron to the outside. The sight causes the crowd to gasp and cheer. In a moment of panic, Rocha is able to block the move with three back elbows to the face. With Ocampos rocked on the apron, Rocha takes off into the far ropes. Upon her return, Ocampos cuts her off with the Black Rain (springboard clothesline). The cheers continue as she makes the cover.

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

Ocampos picks up Rocha, throws her down with a scoop slam and drags her into the corner. After climbing up onto the middle ropes, she flips back and connects with a moonsault. She then drags Rocha into position before hopping onto the apron through the ropes. Ocampos glares back at Serpent’s Touch before executing a slingshot leg drop on Rocha. She turns over and makes the cover.

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

Stephy Auger: Did you see that nasty look that Ocampos just gave Valentine? How rude!

Kris Cruise: What!? What look!?

Ocampos picks up Rocha before sending her into the corner with an irish whip. Ocampos runs across the ring to attack. But she gets knocked back with a boot to the chest. Rocha then turns back towards the turnbuckles and goes for the Lip Buster (flying chuck). But Ocampos is able to roll underneath it. When Rocha turns around, Ocampos throws out a roundhouse kick. But Rocha is able to swat it away before counting her with a palm thrust. She then takes Ocampos and goes for an irish whip. But Ocampos reverses and sends her into the far ropes. As soon as Rocha bounces off the ropes, she leaps across the ring, knocks Ocampos down with a flying forearm and gets back to her feet with a kip up. After stepping out onto the apron, Rocha ascends to the top turnbuckle and waits for Ocampos. As soon as Ocampos gets back to her feet and turns around, Rocha stands up, leaps off and knocks her down with a diving crossbody!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Ocampos kicks out.

Kris Cruise: Close call there for Ocampos!

Rocha picks up Ocampos and goes for an irish whip. But again, Ocampos reverses. When Rocha returns, she brings Ocampos down with a Sling Blade. She then drags Ocampos into position before heading into the corner. Rocha climbs back up to the top turnbuckle. This time, she jumps back and crashes on top of Ocampos with a diving reverse elbow! She turns over and makes the cover.

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

Rocha picks up Ocampos and lifts her up for a vertical suplex. But Ocampos is able to twist and counter into a Stunner. While Rocha is dazed, Ocampos returns to her feet before running back into the ropes. Upon her return, she brings Rocha down with a rolling Yoshi Tonic.

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

Stephy Auger: Rocha gets her shoulder up!

Kris Cruise: How much closer can you get!?

Faye Valentine: … I’m bored...

Kris Cruise: You’re bored? How could you be bored watching this action!?

Ocampos slowly brings Rocha back to her feet before quickly going behind and throwing her down with a German Suplex. Ocampos heads into the corner, scales to the top turnbuckle and flips back for a moonsault. Rocha is able to roll out of the way. But instead of crashing onto the canvas, Ocampos lands on her feet before quickly flipping back and hitting her with a standing moonsault.

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

Rocha gets her shoulder up!

Kimiko makes her way over to the ring while Valentine slowly slides off her headphones.

Kris Cruise: Where is she going!?

Kimiko leaps up onto the apron. The ref points over at Kimiko as she heads over and begins to climb up to the top turnbuckle. Ocampos sees this, so she rushes over into the corner. She’s about to knock Kimiko off when Kimiko wisely jumps back down to the floor. While Ocampos yells at Kimiko, Valentine rolls into the ring from behind, gaining the ref’s attention. Instead of rushing over and attacking Ocampos, Valentine turns and knocks Rocha’s down with a running clothesline. Ocampos hears the impact and turns around to see the ref calling for the bell.

Kris Cruise: What did she do that for?

Stephy Auger: I thought she was going to take out Ocampos.

Valentine smirks as she gets the heck out of dodge. Once Serpent’s Touch reconvene at the end of the aisle, they turn and wait for the referee’s official decision.

J.A. Aldridge: Ladies and gentlemen, here is your winner as a result of a Disqualification… FLAVIA ROCHA!

Ocampos is gutted upon hearing the decision. The crowd boos as Valentine nods. Ocampos pleads with the referee that that wasn’t the right decision. But the ref stands firm in his decision and states that since Rocha was the one attacked, he had no choice but to call for a disqualification. Ocampos turns and sees Serpent’s Touch walking backwards up the aisle. Kimiko remains stone-faced while Valentine has a satisfied smirk plastered across hers…

Stephy Auger: AH HA! Don’t you just love it when a plan comes together?

Kris Cruise: Serpent’s Touch just screwed Ymir Ocampos out of the Frontier Lions Cup! This isn’t right!

Stephy Auger: Oh boo hoo! That brat just learned the hard way that life isn’t fair. Keep that chin up, kiddo. Though if she wants a shoulder to cry on, I’m sure Luke Jackson will be right there waiting with open arms...

[FGA Office]

Vertigo GM Brandon Macdonald stands backstage with a clipboard in hand surrounded by members of the tech crew. Macdonald finishes writing something and then dismisses the huddle without a word, he looks up and waves someone from off camera over.

Brandon Macdonald: I got your message. You are going to need to make this quick.

James Edwards enters the scene. He sticks his hand out for Macdonald to shake. The boss waves him off.

Brandon Macdonald: That isn't necessary. I already know who you are.

James Edwards: Aight, just trying to be professional.

Brandon Macdonald: So what do you want to talk to me about?

Edwards takes a deep breath and hesitates; a rare show of nerves from the ordinarily confident Kentuckian.

Brandon Macdonald: I don't have all day, kid, spit it out.

James Edwards: Why did you roll the red carpet out for Kol?

Macdonald looks surprised for a moment and then turns his attention back to the clipboard.

Brandon Macdonald: He is a big star and a huge signing for the show it is just business.

James Edwards: So that means he gets special treatment?

Brandon Macdonald: How so?

James Edwards: Why does he get a bye in the first round of the Frontier Cup while the rest of us have to fight it out?

Brandon Macdonald: Again, that's just business--

James Edwards: I know how business works, sir, no offense. I got a problem with it. When the folks in the front office pitched the idea of signing here to me, they were quick to point out that nobody got special treatment. They told this wasn't HKW, they told me that I had to earn my spot and compete to move on to bigger and better fights. Now I find out that all was a bunch of bunk--

Brandon Macdonald: I honestly don't care what they told you and don't interrupt me again. Kol is going to have to earn his way. A star of his stature and skill set doesn't need to prove himself quite as hard as---

James Edwards: Well if you ask me it shows he is soft as sh*t and you're more concerned about protecting your investment than keeping the spirit of this company alive.

Macdonald looks up from his clipboard and his eyes narrow.

Brandon Macdonald: I told you not to interrupt me.

Edwards doesn't back down from the boss.

James Edwards: Well you weren't listening to a word I was saying.

Brandon Macdonald: I heard you loud and clear, James. I suggest that you focus on your match tonight and not things that don't concern you.

James Edwards: Speaking of concerns, I have another one. Why is Fujiko Mine getting a title shot just because she asked for one? Why ain't she having to earn it like the rest of us did for the world title shot last week? Or is she too big a star too to have fool around with the rules?

Brandon Macdonald: The Pride Championship situation doesn't concern you, either.

James Edwards: Matters of fairness do concern me. The rest of the roster is as pissed about it as I am. None of them had the gall to do something about, so I am. We want a level playing field around here. We think it is bullsh*t that you're more focused on the brand than the fights.

Macdonald's face turns red. Edwards hit a nerve.

Brandon Macdonald: Don't you ever tell me how to do my job! Focus on winning the tournament, and you'll get your opportunities.

Edwards nods and goes to leave, but he stops and pivots back around.

James Edwards: I won't tell you how to do your job as long you don't tell me what I can and cannot focus on with mine.

James finally leaves, not noticing the irate demeanor of the GM.

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

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 crutches under her arms, a brace on her neck and an almost comical amount of bandages on her body.

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.

Kris Cruise: This is the first time we've seen the former Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion since her defeat in a scaffold match by Lowri Moss.

Stephy Auger: This is a touching moment, Cruise, don't undersell it! We're witnessing some Eric Legrand type bravery here. AMIRA suffered career threatening injuries after Welshie senselessly tried to murder her in an uncalled for and barbaric match! The sheer bravery it takes to appear out here, when she's clearly not healed up is absolutely inspiring.

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 hobble 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!

Kris Cruise: Listen, I'm not going to deny that falling off a scaffold is incredibly dangerous. But she's the one who wanted to push Lowri into an active volcano, I think that was getting off lightly compared to what she had in mind. Not to mention, while she was legitimately shaken up taking a fall like that after some of the crashes and burns she'd taken part in earlier this Summer, she does have a tiny bit of a tendency to exaggerate situations.

After an awkward attempt to maneuver herself and the crutches between the ropes, she screams for J.A. Aldridge to hold them open for her. He does and she manages to make her way through. She lets one of the crutches fall to the mat and keeps it there as she motions with her free hand for Aldridge to hand her a microphone. Once he does, she lets her music die out and raises it to her lips.

Stephy Auger: Does it look like she's doing this for attention!? She's been reduced to a helpless woman that needs a man's help, that's the thing she despises the most! This is her worst nightmare Cruise, and you're here mocking her for being brave enough to face it-- get woke.

AMIRA: Considered yourself blessed, Springfield, for you are witnessing a historic return!

The boos of the crowd, which had been subdued somewhat due to the condition she appeared to be in, begin intensifying.

Kris Cruise: Broomfield, we're in Broomfield.

The platinum blonde lets out a long sigh.

AMIRA: As you can see, I am not yet in any competition to compete. Welshie tried to end me, but in the end I stood victorious. Perhaps not in the traditional sense, but my superiority was still proven! When Verteego selected me before her, despite the fact that I was half-dead from my brutal fall, it proved my point! I am superior, because her claim to fame is beating me, while mine is simply being me. It took her reaching up to my level to finally feel some sense of accompl--

AMIRA notices that the crowd has started buzzing and seems distracted from what she's saying, drawing her ire.

Kris Cruise: Is that someone jumping the guardrail?

Stephy Auger: Great, where's security? Everyone knows AMIRA has a lot of overly passionate fans!

Oblivious to the petite young woman in jeans and a hoodie approaching the ringside area behind her after jumping the rail, AMIRA yells out.

AMIRA: Attention troglodytes! I am in a lot of pain here!

The rail jumper sets an object down by the ringpost and slides under the ropes into the ring. She pops up to her feet, grabbing the loose crutch and cracking AMIRA in the back of the knee with it.

Kris Cruise: Uh, what the hell is going on.

The woman cracks the crutch over AMIRA's back, then delivers a series of stomps before grabbing her arm and delivering a flurry of wicked unprotected soccer kicks to the head. After pummeling her with kicks over and over, she rips the neck brace off and grabs her by the hair. She pulls the battered AMIRA up and with a calmness belying the aggression of the attack sticks the handle of the unbroken crutch in her mouth so AMIRA is biting down on it, while yanking the head back.

Stephy Auger: Uh, again, what's she doing? Can someone stop this?

Walking her across the ring as swiftly as she can to build some momentum, the attacker forcibly pushes her head down, driving the bottom of the crutch into the mat, while snapping the head and neck back as she drops to the mat. The crowd has gone quiet, while the young woman who assaulted AMIRA surveys her handiwork.

Kris Cruise: She needs help out here, bad.  Whatever you think of AMIRA, you don't want to see anyone, especially when they were helpless to defend themselves get assaulted like that.

Having backed off, the woman in the hoodie reaches for the object they set down by the ringpost. Once she lifts it up, the hard cam picks up that it's an old school polaroid instant camera. She straps it around her neck, then cool as can be, snaps a picture of AMIRA before rolling out of the ring and heading up the ramp towards the production area with the developing photo in hand.

Stephy Auger: I knew it! I knew it was a crazy fan trying make themselves part of the show! This is why we have security, why are wrestling show security guards so incompetent! And where's the EMTs?

Kris Cruise: Uh, Steph, I'm not sure about that. Like, this all ... weird, I'm trying to process it. But nobody stopped her from being here-- obviously they didn't know what she was going to do-- and she's not headed back to the crowd. I ... think whoever that was might be part of FGA now.

As medical personnel rush down to check on AMIRA and the attacker dips somewhere out of fight, Auger sounds apoplectic on commentary.

Stephy Auger: Oh great, that's a lot better! MacDonald's sure doing a hell of a job, this is his new talent initiative! Bringing in American Hipster X here to curb stomp our best talents with medical equipment for her crappy art scrapbook!

Kris Cruise: I'm sure this wasn't what he had in mind when --

Stephy Auger: It doesn't matter now! Just throw it to a break, I need a moment!

[FGA Office]

Being a woman that was used to carving her own way, Ymir Ocampos thrust herself into the locker rooms like a hunting blade slicing into a buffalo carcass. No waiting for admittance; no obligatory introduction.

Only a single-minded focus on finishing what was started.

A strand of hair dangles in her eyes, limp with sweat. She pushes it away with the back of her hand. With a quick scan of the area, Ymir realises Serpent’s Touch are nowhere to be found. She heads back out with a purpose in her step, thoughts whirling.

To think her first loss would come like this.

She had squandered not one, but two absolute gifts of opportunities. Last Vertigo she got too caught up with eliminating Serpent’s Touch in the battle royal which led to an early shower… and tonight they avenged themselves by playing her like a fiddle… in a match they had no business involving themselves in.

This tournament was meant to prepare her for the Rey del Aire… or even the Young Guns Cup in January… it was meant to show the world that Ymir Ocampos had arrived. To test her mettle against some of Vertigo’s more established core.

If she wanted to prove her capabilities of becoming Vertigo’s ace, wasn't that the time? That may well have been her last big opportunity for the year.  She didn’t even qualify for the Frontier Lions Cup first round… she didn’t even get out of the starting gates. How was she going to lead the charge into the new era from the back?  How exactly was she turning Frontier Grappling Arts on its ear like this?

She had already garnered a staggering amount of attention for a rookie… but what use was eager attention without results?

And who’s to say Serpent’s Touch wouldn’t try the same against Luke Jackson in his match billed later?  She had to stop that from happening, she decided. No one else would… but she couldn’t find a hint of where they were.

The question comes like a well-practiced thief, sneaking through the dead of night. It is the same thing pondered by people when they find their lovers in the embrace of another.

Where do we go from here?

While the agitated young star paces like a caged jungle cat, she is interrupted by the arrival of another figure. Vertigo General Manager, Brandon MacDonald!

The Canadian rookie regards MacDonald with curiosity brimming in her movements. He nods, half a smile on his lips.

Brandon MacDonald: Ocampos. That was a good show you and Rocha put on out there... I can see that’s the least of your concerns right now though. A damn shame we didn’t get to see that bout out to the finish.

She had intended to go. She had intended to scour the rest of the backstage area to find Serpent’s Touch, but she paused a moment to glance at her employer. He cuts her off once she opens her mouth.

Brandon MacDonald: And before you ask, the Frontier Lion’s Cup doesn’t do rematches. Once a match is called, it’s called. It’s unfortunate a few cases like this may occur. That's how it goes. You and Rocha might tango again sometime, but not in this scenario.

No expression can be ascertained due to the blankness of her visage. Not even a flicker of emotion. When Ymir finally frowned, a tiny crease appeared between her dark eyes.

Ymir Ocampos: No, that’s fine. That’s not what I wanted to ask actually.

MacDonald raised an eyebrow, but he knew there was only one other possible concern she could have had.

Ymir Ocampos: They’re not just after me.  What are you going to do about what they did?  That’s all I care about now.

The GM releases a mild chuckle as he looks her in the eye.

Brandon MacDonald: I should be asking you that.  

Still reflecting on how her match ended, Ymir growls through gritted teeth.

Brandon MacDonald: Listen here, Ymir. Trust me when I say I hate seeing a good contest get ruined as much as anyone else.  You have my word that if we get so much as a whiff of Serpent’s Touch at ringside for the rest of the evening, the ramifications for their disobedience will be severe.

Her mouth is set in a grim line as matched stares with her employer.

Ymir Ocampos: Do you really think they’re the type to listen to a rule like that?

Shaking her head, Ymir is fueled with a fresh dose of determination. Ymir does a 180 and continues her pursuit. MacDonald watches her go. He sighs.

Brandon MacDonald: Darn kids getting so impatient these days.

[FGA Office]

• FRONTIER LIONS CUP (Qualifying Round) •
Ace Watson vs. Fenrys

The scenes opens inside the arena as it was normally lit with the ring announcer ready to announce the upcoming competitor. Suddenly…

“GIVE US YOUR GOLD!!!!!”

Is heard blaring through the speakers as "Release The Hounds" by Satellites On Parade hits the PA System and the arena goes to pitch black. As the intro of the song plays out the lights flash red, blue and black constantly until Fenrys appears standing at the top of the ramp after forty seconds of the song plays out. With his hood of his coat up he stares down to the ring breathing heavy.

Fenrys then looks around to the fans and growls before he makes his way down the ramp. As he makes it to the bottom of the ramp he drops to all fours and proceeds to walk on his fours over to the left side of the ring.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is a Qualifying Match for the 2017 Frontier Lions Cup! Introducing first, representing The New Murder! From The Wolves Den! Weighing in at 178 pounds… FENNNNNRYYSSSS!!!

Fenrys pops up to his feet as he leans over the barricade scarring the fans at ringside before darting towards the ring and sliding into the bottom rope. He stands on his knees in the center of the ring and looks up to the ceiling howling up to the sky while his arms were spread out.

He then stands up to his feet and walks over to a corner and removes his fur coat. After giving it to the stagehand outside the ring, Fenrys crouches down in the corner as we waits for the match to begin.

Kris Cruise: Two members of The New Murder will be looking to advance in the Frontier Lions Cup here tonight. Up first will be Fenrys, who helped eliminate Ace Watson from last week’s Battle Royal!

Stephy Auger: Fenrys eliminated Ace Watson from the Battle Royal and guess what? He’s gonna eliminate him from the Frontier Lions Cup, too!

"Rusty Halo" by The Script begins to play and the fans start to cheer as Ace Watson then steps out onto the stage. The reaction brings a smile to Watson's face as he starts to walk down the ramp, exchanging banter with the fans at the sides of the ramp as he makes his way down.

J.A. Aldridge: And his opponent, from London, England! Weighing in at 225 pounds…. ACE WAAAATSOOONNNNN!!!

Ace climbs the nearest ring steps after slapping a few high fives to some fans. Standing on the apron, Ace turns to the crowd and waves his arm upward to bring out a louder cheer from the audience. Pleased with the reaction, Ace steps between the ropes and walks across to the bottom corner of the ring, where he climbs the turnbuckle and raises an arm into the air, prompting another loud cheer from the fans. Ace then removes his Shootcamp t-shirt (which causes a few female crowd members to audibly react) and throws it into a sea of outstretched arms. Ace then turns and hops down into the ring again, where he watches his opponent.

Kris Cruise: Two weeks ago, Ace Watson and Owen Gonsalves were victorious in tag team action. Later on in the night, the Shootcamp duo ran roughshod in the Battle Royal until they ran into The New Murder.

Stephy Auger: Yeah, and they’ve been crying like crybabies ever since. “Oh nooooo, Molly Reid had help! Oh noooo, she didn’t get the job done by herself!” Oh go somewhere else with that crap! Ace Watson is always whining about this and that. It’s like Molly Reid told him before. There were only four New Murder members in that match. They were at a disadvantage. They were outnumbered. It’s not the New Murder’s fault that everyone else wasn’t smart enough to team up. But it will be the New Murder’s fault when Ace Watson and Owen Watson, the Crybaby Camp, get bounced in the Qualifying Round tonight. You heard it here first!

The bell sounds as Watson and Fenrys make their way towards the center of the ring. Watson goes for a collar-and-elbow tie up, but Fenrys cuts him off with a boot to the midsection. The crowd boos when Fenrys gouges his eyes as he moves Watson over into the ropes. He then turns Watson around, climbs up onto the middle ropes and presses down on the back of Watson’s neck, choking him across the top rope. The ref rushes over and starts a five count.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Fenrys reluctantly lets go. He then hops down and delivers a back rake. The wolf then turns Watson around and lights up his chest before going for an irish whip. But Watson uses his free arm to grab onto the top rope. So Fenrys goes for another irish whip attempt. But again, it gets blocked. Watson then doubles Fenrys over with a knee strike to the midsection before tossing him into the corner. Watson then runs into the corner before connecting with a clothesline. After unleashing a series of ballistic combination of rights and lefts to the midsection, Watson takes Fenrys and sends him hard into the opposite corner with an irish whip. Watson runs into an adjacent set of ropes while Fenrys staggers from out of the corner. He then grabs Fenrys coming out of the corner before driving him down with a bulldog. The cheers continue as Watson pulls him over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Fenrys kicks out.

Watson brings Fenrys back to his feet and goes for an arm wrench. When Watson turns around, he gets poked in the eye. The boos continue after Fenrys places him in a headlock and wrenches the hold. The headlock doesn’t stay on for long, though, as Fenrys is shoved into the far ropes. When he returns, he slides through Watson’s legs. When Watson turns around, he throws out a clothesline. But Fenrys is able to roll underneath it. When Watson turns around, he throws out another clothesline. This time, Fenrys ducks under, grabs Watson from behind and brings him down with a hair pull backbreaker. The boos continue as he makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Watson kicks out.

Stephy Auger: Fenrys is just too fast for Watson!

Fenrys picks up Watson and whips him into the ropes. When Watson returns, Fenrys brings him down with a hurricanrana. He follows up with a senton splash before going for a standing moonsault. But Watson is able to roll out of the way, causing Fenrys to crash onto the canvas. As the New Murder member gets gets back up to a knee, Watson flattens him with a Shining Wizard. He makes the cover.

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

Kris Cruise: Fenrys just got rocked with that knee right to the face!

Stephy Auger: He’ll shake it off! He’ll be fine!

Kris Cruise: Do you seriously believe that, or is that more wishful thinking?

Stephy Auger: Hey, Fenrys is more resilient than you think!

Watson picks up Fenrys and knocks him across the ring and into the corner with a flurry of forearm smashes. Watson continues his barrage of forearm smashes, sending Fenrys slumping down in the corner. From there, Watson turns and runs into the far ropes. When he comes back, the crowd cheers when he cracks Fenrys across the face with a running knee strike. He then drags Fenrys from out of the corner before making the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
T-NO!
Fenrys gets his shoulder up.

Watson picks up Fenrys and connects with a European Uppercut, sending Fenrys stumbling back before falling through the ropes. While Fenrys pulls himself up using the ropes, Watson heads over to attack. Just as Watson’s about to strike with another forearm smash, Fenrys ducks and doubles him over with a shoulder thrust through the ropes. He then slingshots himself over the top rope for a sunset flip. But Watson stands up and catches him across his shoulders. He then makes his way towards the center of the ring before throwing Fenrys down with an Alabama Slam! The thud from the slam can be heard throughout the arena. The cheers continue as he drops down to his knees before making a lateral press for the cover.

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

Fenrys gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Fenrys avoids the three count. But man, he has to be shaken up after that Alabama Slam! The impact from that move… my goodness!

Watson picks up Fenrys, wrenches the arm and pulls him into a short-arm back elbow strike, sending Fenrys stumbling back into the ropes. While Fenrys tries to shake out the cobwebs, Watson heads over to attack. At the last second, Fenrys throws out a boot to the midsection. But Watson anticipates it and catches the foot. The crowd cheers as he drags Fenrys towards the center of the ring. But the cheers turn to boos when Fenrys sends Watson flipping down to the canvas with an enzuigiri. Watson slowly turns over on all fours as he shakes out the cobwebs. When he gets back to a knee, Fenrys runs over and throws out a Shining Wizard. Watson ducks the blow. But as soon as he put his head back up, he gets caught from behind with a reverse Shining Wizard. The boos continue as Fenrys pushes him over and makes the cover.

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

Fenrys picks up Watson and sends him crashing sternum-first into the turnbuckles with an irish whip. As Watson stumbles back, Fenrys brings him down with a lungblower. He then returns to his feet, delivers a double footstomp across Watson’s chest and follows up with a standing moonsault. He makes the cover.

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

Fenrys makes the cover again.

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

Fenrys quickly mounts on top of Watson and mauls him with wild punches and elbows. Watson tries to cover up. But some of the strikes slip through his defense.

Stephy Auger: Good! That’s what Watson gets for talking bad about or future Undisputed Champion!

Kris Cruise: Our future what!?

Fenrys slowly brings Watson back to his feet. He then nails Watson with a right hand. Fenrys winds up before socking Watson with another right hand. He then steps back before connecting with a rolling elbow, sending Watson through the ropes and onto the apron. Fenrys slingshots himself out onto the apron before stomping away on Watson. After reaching down and picking Watson back up, Fenrys places him in a headlock, turns and delivers a falling neckbreaker on the apron. Fenrys sits up and howls at the moon while Watson slowly falls off the apron and hits the floor. While Watson holds the back of his neck in pain, Fenrys slips back inside the ring. The New Murder member begins to pace the ring while the ref starts his count.

ONE!





TWO!





THREE!




Kris Cruise: Watson took a hard neckbreaker right on the hardest part of the ring. He might be out of it, Stephy!

Stephy Auger: I believe you’re right, Cruise. The ref should just step in and call the match now.



FOUR!





FIVE!




Watson begins to stir on the outside…


Kris Cruise: Wait a minute! Watson is showing signs of life!


SIX!





SEVEN!





When Watson gets back to his feet, Fenrys runs across the ring, leaps through the ropes and knocks Watson into the guardrail with a tope suicida. The boos continue as he picks up Watson and rolls him back inside before sliding back in to make the cover.

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

Kris Cruise: Good ring awareness on display there by Watson!

Stephy Auger: That looked more like luck to me!

Fenrys picks up Watson, moves him into the corner and nails him with a European Uppercut. After sending Watson into the opposite corner with an irish whip, Fenrys runs across the ring and throws himself at Watson for a corner European Uppercut. But Watson moves out of the way, causing Fenrys to crash into the turnbuckles. As Fenrys starts to stagger away from the corner, Watson grabs a hold of him, quick turns and hurls him into the turnbuckles with an Exploder Suplex. The cheers continue as he makes the cover.

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

Fenrys gets his foot on the bottom rope.

Stephy Auger: Now THAT was a sign of some good ring awareness, Cruise!

Kris Cruise: ...

Watson yanks up Fenrys and whips him into the far ropes. When Fenrys returns, Watson throws him down with a scoop powerslam. He hooks the leg.

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

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

Watson picks up Fenrys and goes for an irish whip. But Fenrys reverses, sending him into the ropes. When Watson returns, he sees Fenrys setting up for a back body drop. So he counters with a Snap DDT. Watson brings Fenrys back to his feet, grabs him from behind and delivers a half nelson suplex. After bringing Fenrys back to his feet and doubling him over with a knee to the midsection, Watson turns and heads into the ropes. When he comes back, he knocks Fenrys down with the STSK (running scissors kick to the back of the neck). The cheers continues as Watson pulls Fenrys up from behind, places him in an inverted facelock and brings him down with the Anglian Driver (rolling cutter). He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd cheers when “Rusty Halo” hits the speakers.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, ACE WATSON!

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

Kris Cruise: Ace Watson picks up yet another win here in FGA! 2-1 in his three matches? That’s not bad, Stephy!

Stephy Auger: Let’s not crown him a champion yet, Cruise! He’s still got a long way to go to get to the end of the Frontier Lions Cup. Fenrys failed to get the job done tonight. But you know who won’t? Mercy Williams!

[FGA Office]

The program fades into the backstage area, zoomed into the face of the FGA Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship, earning a pop from the knowing crowd-- which only grows louder as we pan out, revealing Sadie San Francisco, already dressed in her wrestling gear and a black tee that had been worn as a one-off months prior, simply reading “CAMP SADIE”, looking at the title as she uses her thumb to wipe a smudge from the nameplate. Next to her stands Spencer Burke, who greets the camera with a smile.

Spencer Burke: Ladies and gentlemen, my guest at this time-- the FGA Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion, Sadie San Francisco.

Sadie’s eyes drift from the title and up toward Spencer with a small smile.

Sadie San Francisco: Spence.

Spencer Burke: Sadie, tonight, Lowri Moss finally gets the opportunity she’s been asking for since All Star Showdown… a one-on-one shot for your Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship. We heard what she had to say on our last episode and throughout the week, but you’ve been pretty quiet on the matter. Can I ask what’s going through your mind about the match? About Lowri?

Sadie takes a small breath, a thoughtful look on her face before she responds.

Sadie San Francisco: So. I don’t think Lowri’s the kind of girl that fishes for compliments. She doesn’t need me to tell you or Broomfield, Colorado…

Cheap pop. You’re damn right cheap pop.

Sadie San Francisco: ...that she’s one of the fastest-improving wrestlers on the FGA roster. She doesn’t need me to tell anyone how good she is. Lowri’s the kind of person, I think, that would rather go out there and prove the doubters wrong without having to say anything, and I respect that. It’s a good mentality to have. Same mentality that got me to the top of that ladder at All-Star Showdown.

Sadie smirks a little, glancing at the championship once more before looking back at Spencer, offering a tiny shrug.

Sadie San Francisco: Also the same mentality that sent Lowri crashing over fifteen feet through another ladder, though, isn’t it?

Spencer opens his mouth to say something, but Sadie shrugs again, speaking over him.

Sadie San Francisco: Something to consider.

Spencer Burke: Full confidence heading into your third title defense then?

Sadie San Francisco: Why not? Lowri’s a hell of a competitor but if I were to stand here and say I didn’t think I could beat her, then I w…

Sadie trails off as Spencer’s face seems to completely change, eyes growing wider and curious, following someone behind Sadie. Sadie raises a brow and turns, glancing over her shoulder.

Julian Tijerina: Well, well, well. If it isn’t my favorite city. Must be fun to be that guy who gets in bed with you. He can make a joke about bringing the city of San Francisco to its knees.

Julian laughs, elbowing an uncomfortable Spencer Burke who can't do anything else but look down at his own feet. Sadie isn't amused, merely offering a slow blink, raising an eyebrow at Julian. El Guapo responds with a smirk, undeterred.

Julian Tijerina: How's it going, Sadie? You keeping OUR title warm?

Sadie furrows her eyebrow, confusion and annoyance washing over her.

Sadie San Francisco: “Our” title…

She says it softly, aloud to herself as if trying to decide how it sounds. She grimaces a bit, looking at her title again before her gaze falls back to Julian.

Sadie San Francisco: Last time I checked, I won this in a chaotic match, which you were also a part of-- so you can confirm. But if I won that match, and this title, that can only mean...

Sadie feigns a gasp, annoying Julian.

Sadie San Francisco: ...you lost that same match. You lost this title. Well, the opportunity to get it, I guess. You never won it. You were never even really that close.

Julian takes a step forward, closing the gap between himself and Sadie, and raises a finger right in her face. Sadie rolls her eyes away from his finger, choosing to look at Spencer instead as Julian goes on.

Julian Tijerina: I was close! If it wasn't for that meddling Old Man Stryker, I would be in your place right now!

Sadie chuckles, gaze falling back on Julian.

Sadie San Francisco: Okay, Scooby Doo Villain #69. Whatever you say.

Julian scowls. He closes his eyes and does a breathing exercise, calming himself. Both Spencer and Sadie stare at each other in confusion.

Julian Tijerina: If you've forgotten how that title match unfolded, let me help you remember. That stupid geriatric one trick mule Brian Stryker took me out from atop a ladder, but in the process, he also took himself out because he's old and his hip needs replacing. You and NEON were the last two competitors still in the fight when lo and behold! You were able to get NEON off of you and send her crashing right into a ladder bridge, one that I built.

Sadie tries to stay something but Julian shushes her with a finger to her lips.

Julian Tijerina: I helped you win that title, Sadie. Without me, you wouldn't be champion. Oh, and if you've also forgotten what happened the last time we were in the ring together, it was in that battle royal a few weeks ago, a battle royal where I eliminated you and the woman who can't even spell her name properly, Lowri Moss!

Sadie raises a brow but Julian isn't done.

Julian Tijerina: You owe me, Sadie! You owe me...something.

Julian traces Sadie's entire body like some really thirsty weirdo, complete with a smile that would either scare little kids or excite his fan girls.

Sadie San Francisco: …

Slowly, subtly, Sadie’s lips twitch once… twice… and she raises a fist to cover her mouth, but is unable to stifle the laughter. She shakes her head, looking up at Julian with her head angled a bit.

Sadie San Francisco: Tell you what. You find a way into a title match after I break Lowri’s heart tonight, and we can see exactly what happens. But, Julie, I don’t owe anybody anything. Especially you.

She gives him a once-over, adjusting the title on her shoulder before repeating herself in a lower, almost-disgusted-sounding tone for emphasis.

Sadie San Francisco: Especially you.

Another tiny laugh before Sadie gives Spencer a polite nod and turns, marching past Tijerina, down the corridor, and out of frame. Julian’s face steadily grows more red as Sadie’s footsteps fade, but he doesn’t move. We pan out, revealing Spencer again, who looks up at Julian and clears his throat.

Spencer Burke: Soooo, while y--

Julian turns and rips Spencer’s microphone out of his hand. He winds up and launches the microphone down the corridor, into the abyss like a professional MLB pitcher to a chorus of boos from the audience. Fuming, Julian trudges down the hall, leaving Spencer standing alone in silence, hand still extended as if holding the microphone. Spencer shakes his head, frowning as we fade away.

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

Luke Jackson stands in front of the camera. He has a smile on his face. He cracks his neck and takes a deep breath.

Luke Jackson: Tonight, I have a shot to become something that I have worked my ass off for. I have worked so hard to be a damn good wrestler and every chance I have had to make a name for myself I have failed. I have been oh so close but every single time it seems like I just fall a bit short.

He shakes his head and closes his eyes.

Luke Jackson: The time that I have been here in FGA, I have not been what I have wanted to be and that is no secret. I have always been that guy that has had good matches and that fights his heart out but at the end of the day he falls short and everyone shrugs their shoulders and says that is just Luke Jackson. That is what he does.

He takes another deep breath and puts his hands together.

Luke Jackson: I don’t want that anymore. I want to shrug that off and actually be a damn good wrestler. Someone that people start to fear. That people start to see he means business and that he keeps on fighting his ass off and gets the job done. I’m in the Frontier Lions Cup Qualifying Round tonight against James Edwards. James is good and he has had issues with Ricky like I have had. I just know that I am better than him. I know how much glory I want.

He starts to get mad as he looks at the camera.

Luke Jackson: I don’t care who is in front of me I am taking them down. No longer will this be the old Luke Jackson that allows people to push him around. That allows people to get into his head. I am much stronger than that. I am smarter and I am faster. And no one is going to stop me. Ymir is watching me and I will make her proud. I am rebuilt and that is all that matters.

He smiles and licks his lips.

Luke Jackson: I’m not going to go quiet anymore. FGA has given me chance after chance and this time I am taking it by both hands and not letting it go.

[FGA Office]

• FRONTIER LIONS CUP (Qualifying Round) •
James Edwards vs. Luke Jackson

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is a Qualifying Match for the 2017 Frontier Lions Cup!

The announcement earns a cheap pop from the eager Broomfield crowd.

J.A. Aldridge:  Introducing first…

The house lights go down, and the arena stays black during the garbled opening guitar rift, then, "Okay." Strobe lights move with the easy beat of the song. James appears at the top of the ramp with the hood on his ring jacket up. He takes a few moments survey everything before him.

J.A. Aldridge: Making his way to the ring from Lexington Kentucky standing at five foot nine inches tall and weighing in tonight at two hundred and four pounds. He is "The Burning Heart" JAAAAMES EDDDWAAARRRDSSS!!!

Kris Cruise: Last time on Vertigo we saw James Edwards was not at all pleased with how Fujiko Mine asked - and was then granted - to be next in line for the FGA Pride title after tonight's main event where Chris Madison defends against Christensen.

Stephy Auger: I can hardly blame him for being angry. I mean, alright, he's always angry but c'mon! Chris Madison says he'll bring back pride to the Pride division. The next minute he's handing out title shots like they're lollipops.

Kris Cruise:Champion in Molly Reid under Pride rules. Molly's also the #1 contender for the Undisputed title now. Fujiko has a case here!

Stephy Auger: So?! That doesn't mean squat. I don't remember her winning any #1 contender matches.It’s not been long since she came back from her break either. I'm with Edwards on this. In fact, I’d pay good money to say him take that contendership off her.

The hood goes down with the opening lyrics. Moving with the meandering pace of the music, his eyes never leave the ring. He laps the squared circle, slides under the bottom ropes, and bows martial arts style to all four corners before settling into his own.

J.A. Aldridge: And his opponent…

"Lose Yourself" by Eminem blasts through the PA system to cheers from the packed arena.

J.A. Aldridge: Hailing from Oakland, California standing at six foot one inch tall and weighing in tonight at one hundred and ninety-five pounds! He is "The Kid" LUUUUUKE JAAAACKSOOONNNN!!!

Jackson's theme continues, but to the surprise of everyone, no one steps through the curtains.

Kris Cruise:Err... Where the heck is he?

Stephy Auger: Probably chickened out. Luke Jackson living up to his nickname everybody.

Kris Cruise: After that interview he just gave? I don’t think so. You don’t talk with that sort of fire blazing in your eyes and then no show five minutes later.

Stephy Auger:  Oh, come ON. How many wrestlers have you seen talk big and fail to back it up? You don’t have enough hairs on your head to list them off.

Kris Cruise:Not this time. Why big yourself up for a match you won’t appear in? I’ll believe it when I see it.

Edwards furrows his brow as he questions the referee. The official is in the dark as much as he is and has no answer for him. Edwards paces the ring with his hands on his hips, eyes focused on the ramp as the crowd  grows confused at the delay. Some even boo.

Kris Cruise:We apologise for the delay ladies and gentlemen. This is really quite unexpected.

After some time the official checks his watch and sees a full minute has passed. He takes one last look up the ramp and sighs. He looks to ringside to speak to the timekeeper and Aldridge who eventually agree with what he says. Shaking his head, the referee throws an X over his head with his arms..

Kris Cruise:Oh, no....

Stephy Auger: Oh, yes! Luke Jackson had a chance to play with the big boys and he chickened out!

Kris Cruise:Nooo...  There's something wrong. I can't believe Luke wouldn't come out for this.

Rising to his feet, Aldridge clears his throat, all too aware this decision will not please the FGA faithful.

J.A. Aldridge:  Ladies and gentlemen, it appears Luke Jackson will not make an appearance for this contest, therefore, here is your winner by forfeit, James Edwards!

The boos from the crowd are immense, with many in the audience looking bewildered. Both at the decision and Jackson’s apparent no show.

Stephy Auger:  HA! No going back on it now.

Visibly annoyed, Edwards asks the referee why he didn't wait a few more minutes. As the official replies, the titantron springs to life drawing everyone’s eyes. A commotion can be heard as there is absolute pandemonium as the camera whirls about the backstage area.

Kris Cruise: What's this...?

We catch a glimpse of a concerned Spencer Burke before the camera whirls round to not even a few feet away from where he conducted his interview a few minutes ago.

Tearing him apart like dogs on a juicy bone, Serpent's Touch have Luke Jackson cornered and overwhelmed. Seeing this, the crowd’s boos grow oppressive. Caught between two flurries of punches and down to a knee, Luke back elbows Kimiko to free up some space for himself. His reprieve is brief as he goes to trade punches with Faye.

Kris Cruise cannot hide the disgust in his voice.

Kris Cruise: Of course. Serpent's Touch!! Who else?!

Stephy Auger:  What exactly are you insinuating, Cruise?

Kris Cruise: What am I insinuating? Are you honestly trying to defend what they're doing?

Stephy Auger:  Did you see the way Luke was talking a few moments ago? I bet that punk thought he could get cocky and slighted them on his way to the ring. Good thing Serpent’s Touch know a thing or two about putting upstarts in their place!

Kris Cruise: For the love of God can you hear yourself?!

Despite a noble effort to get into the fight, two-on-one odds prove insurmountable at that moment. A chop block and clothesline combo takes Luke to the ground where Serpent’s Touch pepper him with stomps, much to the crowd’s white hot displeasure. Faye yells at Spencer for his microphone. Sheepishly, he hands it over and scurries off. Despite her sweaty and slightly rumpled appearance, Faye’s grin shines through.

Faye Valentine: Now then... let this be a lesson to anyone who thinks they can be cute and step out of line.  Serpent’s Touch suffers NO fools. And whilst some thought they could try to embarrass us and get off scot free… tonight we proved otherwise. EVERYTHING has a consequence.

Faye hovers over “The Kid” and watches him struggle to his hands and knees.Kimiko wrenches him up by his hair so he’s kneeling.

Faye Valentine: Guess what Lukey? A little while after her match we found your little… “student”.  We told her that’d we attack you… but she couldn’t do anything about it!

Faye looks at Kimiko, barely able to contain a sudden urge to laugh uncontrollably.

Faye Valentine: Oh, you should have seen it. She was like one of those annoying little puppies that you kick but they keep coming back. A real glutton for punishment. But don’t you worry your little head, we put her to bed since it’s way past her bedtime. In fact… I think it’s about time for you to take a nap yourself.

Slamming the microphone into Luke’s head, Faye barks at Kimiko to hold Luke up as she goes to grab a nearby chair. Kimiko is all too happy to oblige.  Snapping up the steel chair Faye returns as Kimiko holds Luke up. A wicked, witch-eating grin cuts a gash across Faye’s face. The eyes of the New Jersey beauty spark as she licks her lips.

Kris Cruise: What the hell are those two doing?!

Stephy Auger: They’re about to give Luke a long, well deserved rest for the night. Just like Ymir!

Kris Cruise: Someone needs to put a stop to those two thugs! Dammit where is security?

Stephy Auger: Don’t let the bedbugs bite!

Faye Valentine raises the chair over her head to strike.

A blur races past the camera and hits Faye like a charging bull. Tackling her to the ground to the roar of the crowd, Ymir Ocampos pummels away at Faye as the chair goes flying across the floor.

Rising to her feet, there’s a limp to Ymir’s step, but she manages a hasty Pele kick to Kimiko who tried to dart in behind her.
She uses a wall for support and she still moves somewhat like a horse that should be put down. She goes to help Luke back to his feet.

Kris Cruise: Ymir looks pretty hurt. She already wrestled a match tonight… and it looks like Serpent’s Touch decided to gang up on her afterwards like the hoodlums they are!

Stephy Auger: Divide and conquer, Cruise! Divide and conquer! It’s a privilege to see such ingenuity. You can tell these two are followers of El Guapo

Kris Cruise:Yes. The resemblance in behaviour is uncanny.  

Ymir nears Luke, but Faye clothesline her from behind. Kimiko soon joins Faye and Serpent’s Touch maliciously batter their fallen foe. In particular going after Ymir’s bad leg. The ruckus is nearing the cameraman, as he realises he's a bit too close to the action. It’s too late for him.

Detonating like an incendiary grenade, Luke violently lurches forwards.  He utterly levels Kimiko with a spear! As Kimiko and Jackson crashed into the cameraman, his equipment was destroyed and the live audience was left with a snow-filled screen until another camera picked up from where we left off

Luke and Kimiko began to roll around trading punching on the ground while Faye pulls Ymir by the hair to the shutters and goes to throw her into them face first. Ymir blocks it by putting a leg to the shutters, but she cries out as she put weight on her bad leg.  Faye hits her with a haymaker that sends her reeling.

Luke gets up having dealt with Kimiko.  Luke turns to see the steel chair, eyes wild as this evening’s events all come back to him. He grabs it and heads over to Faye and Ymir who are now trading punches. With no thought other than to destroy, Luke Jackson swings his brain damaging chairshot. It knifes through the air like a heat-seeking missile and connects with the shutters for a mind boggling impact with Faye barely ducking in time!

Kris Cruise: Good GOD, did you hear that?!

Stephy Auger: I felt that.

Kimiko comes barreling in with a running dropkick that forces Luke back just as Ymir chops Faye so hard she drops to the ground! A breath later, a security detail floods the scene before all hell lets loose, separating everyone well away from each other despite their loud protests.

Being held down by five security guards, Luke Jackson only has a single arm loose that he desperately tries to use to push himself back up but to no avail. He yells out for them to let him finish off Serpent’s Touch but they don’t give him an inch. Suddenly, the volume of his voice cranks up countless decibels. The fury has escaped.

Luke Jackson: WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!? I'M NOT THE ONE WHO STARTED THIS IT WAS THOSE TWO!! THEY COST US OUR MATCHES USE YOUR EYES, MAN!! WE’RE NOT GETTING CHANCES LIKE THIS AGAIN!!  WHERE WERE YOU WHEN  THEY RUINED THE MATCH EARLIER?!?

Faye shouts something back, but it’s hard to hear over all the commotion. Marching onto the scene with another hoard  of security in his wake is Brandon MacDonald. He is not amused.

Brandon MacDonald: That’s enough!  Dammit, I said that’s enough!

It takes time, but soon enough, everyone remains quiet enough to hear a pin drop onto a feather mattress.

Brandon MacDonald: To have one of these qualifying rounds ruined is one thing, but two? By the same perpetrators no less. If you ruffians want to tear chunks out of each other so desperately, then so be it. I'll give you a stage to do just that. In two weeks time on the next Vertigo we will have Faye Valentine with Kimiko in her corner up against Ymir Ocampos with Luke Jackson in her corner.

The crowd explodes at the announcement in the background. MacDonald narrows his eyes.

Brandon MacDonald: And one last minor detail.

He takes a long look at each of the persons involved in the scuffle.

Brandon MacDonald: I like to see myself as a man who humours things. I can humour a lot of the crazy antics that you grapplers engage in. I can humour the madness that keeps our fans tuning in. But - and lemme tell ya, it's a huge but - there is a line that you have all crossed. I have zero tolerance for involving innocent bystanders in your little spats. If you can't even control yourselves  enough to keep FGA personnel out of harm's way you have no business here. You're all to be escorted from the premises for your disgraceful conduct. And by God, I'll see to it that none of you gets a cent of your salaries this month.

MacDonald develops a grimace of distaste on his face as he looks over at his employees. Rolling his eyes, he gives a final order to security.

Brandon MacDonald: Get these thugs out of my sight.

Without missing a beat, security take away all of the involved one by one. Faye still has a devilish smirk on her features, totally satisfied. Close behind is Ymir. Her brunette locks cascade over her face, blocking her hateful stare completely. Kimiko looks back over her shoulder at Jackson, her jaw clenching hard. Luke keeps his head down, still simmering over his elimination from the tournament by Serpent’s Touch’s hand.

Back in the ring, the referee goes to raise Edwards’  arm, but he wrenches it away.  Shaking his head, James Edwards exits the ring declaring this all to be a farce.  

Kris Cruise: Well… James Edwards advances to the first round of the Frontier Lions Cup.. but not in the way anyone wanted. Least of all himself.  But that’s a big announcement from GM MacDonald for the next Vertigo! Kaye Valentine will be taking on Ymir Ocampos with Kimiko and Luke Jackson at ringside! We’ll be back after this. The Frontier Lion Cup continues - Owen Gonsalves versus Mercy Williams is NEXT!

[FGA Office]

The Vertigo feed cuts backstage and we see Frankie Morrison standing outside of his client's locker room finishing up a phone call. He hangs up the phone and stashes it into his breast pocket as he pushes the door open with his free hand. Madison pops up to his feet, already dressed for action.

Chris Madison: Get lost out there?

Frankie looked down at the extravagant wristwatch that hid underneath the sleeve of his tailor-made suit jacket and chuckled.

Frankie Morrison: Didn’t realize I was gone all that long. Sorry about that; had some business to take care of. Potential new client. How ya feeling?

Chris grabbed the FGA Pride Championship from the locker behind him and flipped it over his shoulder.

Chris Madison: Good. Loose.

Frankie Morrison: I know Sydney has had your number in these last two encounters, but tonight is different. This is FGA, your house! This is a Pride Rules match, much different from your previous title matches against each other in the past. It’s one thing to get a pinfall over you, it’s another to outlast you and survive a two-out-of-three falls match!

Chris Madison: Her ability to survive isn’t in question. She survived that hellacious tower match in WCS and won the right to challenge me for the International Championship. She survived a rematch on her home turf, after months of me makin’ those title matches look like child’s play. Sydney is more than capable of pullin’ this off tonight and shockin’ the world; And MacDonald knew that when he made this match.

Frankie nodded his head while processing what Madison was saying.

Frankie Morrison: So do you think…

Chris Madison: Yeah. MacDonald is testin’ me.

Frankie Morrison: You’re going to have your critics. The Pride Championship has consumed you for close to a year now, and what do you have to show for it? Two championship reigns without a single successful defense. With Fujiko Mine on the hunt, and quite frankly, you look like an easy target. You need to make a statement tonight, more than ever!

Chris Madison: You know me, everyone else's opinion’s mean sh*t to me. People want to doubt me? Let them! People want to see me as an easy target? Let them! I don’t need the blessin’ of my peers to be successful. I’m not lettin’ this belt slip away again!

Morrison watched his client’s declaration with prideful eyes. Madison’s confidence and determination was something to be admired, despite

Frankie Morrison: I’m sure Fujiko…

Chris Madison: One step at a time Frankie. I agreed to give Fujiko that title match she was lookin’ for because I’m not one to back down from challenges, but right now, my only concern is tonight’s defense against Sydney. Fujiko’s day will come.

Morrison slowly nods his head.

Frankie Morrison: Well, let’s get out there and make a statement, change this perception of you being a one and done champion!

Madison steps forward, passing his manager as he approaches the door. Morrison pats him on the back and then grabs him by his traps as he follows behind him while the feed cuts away.

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

“Tear Away” by Drowning Pool begins to blast over the speakers, the audience turning towards the entranceway and realizing the theme as “KOL” appears on the tron. This prompts the audience to begin booing, getting even louder when Vertigo’s first after-draft signing steps out from behind the curtain, dressed in a grey suit, a white dress shirt with the collar popped underneath. A smirk appears on his face as he begins to make his way down to the ring.

Kris Cruise: He’s finally here! The first big signing following the FGA Draft, Kol, is finally on Vertigo!

Stephy Auger: Yes! What a great night this is, Kris! You get to see one of the best wrestlers in the world tonight! Our GM is a genius for somehow pulling off this deal! A genius, I say!

Kol eventually reaches ringside and notices a few fans in the front row are booing him and throwing up a thumbs down. He walks over to one wearing a Daniel Widdel shirt and chuckles once he spots it before turning back around and walking up the steel steps. He then walks the apron, staring out at the audience that’s sending hate his way before entering the ring. A microphone is presented to him before everyone clears the ring and his theme slowly fades out. Kol looks around for a bit, waiting for the audience to quiet down before he finally speaks into the microphone.

Kol: My, my, it has been a long time, hasn’t it?

The audience gives a mixed reaction to this and Kol just shrugs it off as he continues.

Kol: Except this time, I have not come here to save anyone’s career by teaming up with them. I’m not here as Colton Sterling, the guy who would put on a cape and try to save everyone he could because he was that guy. No, standing in this ring is not the man you FGA fans cheered as he fought alongside someone who clearly needed his help to even survive in this place.

A boo from the audience gets a grin out of Kol.

Kol: You may not like it, but it is a simple fact that Colton Sterling thought about others before himself. And that’s exactly why Colton Sterling was never going to be a top champion. That’s exactly why Colton Sterling was never going to be the guy. He was just too nice. Too helpful. Too friendly.

Kol lets out a sound of disgust and shivers a bit before he turns to the audience once more.

Kol: So luckily for all of you, you’re not going to be getting some smiling jackass willing to put his body on the line and never even be awarded for it. You’re not going to be getting a guy in a cape willing to risk it all just to give everyone a great show. You’re not getting just another good hand to have. No, Vertigo is getting something bigger than that. They’re getting something that allows them to even CONSIDER themselves above the Flashpoint roster. And that something...is me.

He offers up the nearby camera a smile as the audience boos him in the background. But again, Kol pretends as if he heard nothing, continuing on with what he has to say.

Kol: I can sit here and tell you why I’m a big deal, and trust me, I would love nothing more than to stroke my own ego, but I simply do not care to do that. If you do not know me, get out of the rock you’ve been living under because the moment I signed my name on the dotted line and became part of this roster, the whole landscape changed. And that’s not something probably most of that roster behind there watching this wants to admit, but they know better than anyone else that I’m a big deal and thus any match with me for any of you back there becomes a big deal.

The current longest reigning HKW Global champion motions for a chair to be slid into the ring before going back to speaking on the mic.

Kol: It becomes a bigger deal for some more than others, but in the end, even Dom Harter knows a match with me is a big deal.

The chair is slid into the ring as the audience boos at the mention of Harter.

Kol: Molly Reid sure as hell knows a match with me would be a big deal.

The audience boos once more as Kol takes the chair and unfolds, setting it down.

Kol: Jimmy Page knows a match with me would be a big deal.

This time, the audience cheers as Kol stands right next to the chair, having one last name to throw out.

Kol: And Johnny Karma definitely knows a match with me would be a big deal.

The audience pops huge for the mention of the FGA Undisputed champion as Kol finally takes a seat, letting the audience finish the small “Karma” chant before he continues.

Kol: Some of the biggest names on this brand know that as soon as I signed a contract for this place, I became part of that big name group, and no matter how anyone feels about it, they need to learn that I’m not someone who is all flash and nothing else. I am, if nothing else, one of the biggest pieces of sh*t you will ever meet in your life.

The Colorado audience now begins chanting “yes, you are” to Kol, this being almost the first reaction he has reacted to since he made his entrance.

Kol: I do not care for the well-being of anyone in the back. I do not care what or who you’re fighting for. I sure as hell don’t give a s**t about any of your dreams and aspirations. I’m here to make my mark like I’ve done in Hard Knox Wrestling, in New Kingdom Pro, and like I will do in Portland Pro. Colton Sterling crossed the first thing off my checklist, but now I have to finish it in order to achieve what I want to achieve in this company.

Kol takes a second before he states what it is.

Kol: The FGA Triple Crown? I want that. I want to do what Dom Harter did...but better. See, I don’t just want the Pride championship so it’s added to my Triple Crown status. I want the Pride championship so that I can show that I am one of the best pure wrestlers in this world. I don’t want the Undisputed championship just to hot potato it to someone else. No, I want to hold that title for 365 days. I want to hold it for over 400 days. I want to destroy the defenses record. I want my name in the history books and I want it to be know that I was one of the most dominant wrestlers to ever step foot in this place....and it all starts with the Frontier Lions Cup.

The audience begins to boo Kol once more, realizing that he received a bye straight into the tournament, which just brings a smile to the NKP Openweight champion’s face.

Kol: Yes, I know. You’re all so unhappy that I was given a bye into this tournament, but come on, now. Did you really want to see me actually spend what, five minutes kicking the crap out of someone like James Edwards and pinning them in the middle of the ring? Please, it’s a waste of my time and yours to try and avoid the inevitable, which is me taking my spot in this tournament and Brandon Macdonald knew that and that’s exactly why I have the bye. He knows that the best talent of Vertigo needs to represent Vertigo and if my name doesn’t pop up in the top 8 of Vertigo already, then you’re smoking what probably half this audience is already “legally” smoking.

Kol rises from his seat again as some of the stoners in the audience let out a cheer.

Kol: Brandon Macdonald gave me a bye because he knows exactly what the result would have been if he put me in with one of those good hands...one of those Colton Sterlings. He practically saved someone from being embarrassed in this ring by one of the best wrestlers on this brand, in this company, and in the f***ing world. And once again, whether you like it or not, whether you want to admit it or not, I hold my own against any wrestler you can name off the top of your head.

This gets a negative reaction from the audience, to no one’s surprise.

Kol: So I applaud our GM for saving one of those good hands that’ll probably never amount to anything more than opening up a card. I applaud our GM for doing the right thing and putting one of the best talents on this roster in a tournament that I’ll likely be a favorite to win once the brackets are set.

A “no” chant breaks out, but Kol continues on once they fade out, checking his watch sarcastically.

Kol: And if you’re mad about that...then stay mad.

The New Yorker moves closer towards the ropes, eventually setting both forearms on there as the camera zooms in on him.

Kol: Stay mad that people gave more of a sh*t about me just signing a piece of paper than they have given about your entire stint here. Stay mad that I’m already a bigger deal than you and I haven’t wrestled in this company in over two years. Stay mad that when your grandkids look up the history of FGA, they’ll see my name plastered all over it...while most of you will be nothing more than footnotes.

The camera is now solely on Kol’s face, his eyes staring daggers into it as his expression has turned into a serious one.

Kol: People act like I’m a big deal because I’m a big f***ing deal. And if you got a problem with that? I really don’t give a s**t. I came here to make history and it is what I’ll make. You just stay on the sideline with the other good hands and hope you can just cash a check every other week, just like some of this trash in the audience tonight.

Another chorus of boos begins, but they eventually fade out.

Kol: When you look at me, you’re looking at the Frontier Lions Cup winner. You’re looking at a future Pride champion and a future Undisputed champion. When I look at you?

Kol chuckles.

Kol: I look at someone who will never be on my level. Those of you offended by it? Know that I’m talking about you.

The Buffalo native finally gets off of the ropes and does a 180 turn to look at the other side.

Kol: Brandon Macdonald said I was a future “Face of Vertigo”.

Kol grins.

Kol: Everyone is going to soon realize he hit the nail on the head with that statement.

With that, Vertigo’s newest roster member drops the mic, the audience hitting him with another chorus of boos and jeers, but gets another smirk from him as he makes his way out of the ring.

Kris Cruise: Kol sure sounds full of himself, doesn’t he?

Stephy Auger: If you were as good at your job as he is at his, you’d be full of yourself too. But I too applaud Brandon Macdonald for saving a pleb from wasting Kol’s time and getting destroyed in the ring. What a great boss we have!

Kris Cruise: God, you really want that bonus, don’t you?

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

Vertigo returns from the commercial break to find Lowri Moss and Neal Durden standing backstage. Durden has a pair of crutches, and some bandages around his right ankle, as he gives Lowri a pep talk.

Neal Durden: After the Rookie X Cup, when you were disappointed with having come third, I told you to keep pushing, and that you would get there. And now here you are, with the chance to fulfill your ambition.

Lowri Moss: Yeah, although it's not the first time that I've been here, is it?

Lowri exhales nervously.

Lowri Moss: Tonight does feel different though - a good kind of different. I really think that this time can be more than just a repeat of what has happened on the previous occasions, and that this time, things can actually go the way I want them to.

Neal nods his head in agreement.

Neal Durden: I think so too. I know better than anyone else how much you want to win the Mid-Atlantic Legacy title, and while it has been my dream to be a champion alongside you, I'll be just as happy to see you become a champion on your own. This is your dream, Lowri - go and achieve it!

Neal smiles at his friend and tag team partner.

Neal Durden: You know I've believed in you ever since I first saw what you're capable of, don't you? Once you have that title around your waist, maybe then you'll finally accept that I was right about everything that I've said about you.

Lowri gives a wry smile of her own.

Lowri Moss: We'll see. Win or lose though, I promise I'll buy you a drink afterwards. You'll either be drinking with me to commiserate, or - hopefully - you'll be drinking with me to celebrate.

Neal Durden: Well, whatever does happen, just remember, as long as you don't hold anything back, and you leave it all out there in the ring, you’ll have nothing to be ashamed about.

Unfortunately for them, the conversation is interrupted by the arrival of Dom Harter and Chris Bond. The veterans swagger onto the scene, dressed as per usual, in their leather jackets and ring attire, as they assume positions on either side of Lowri and Neal. The young Welsh wrestlers look apprehensive, especially as Dom wraps his arm around Neal’s shoulders.

Chris Bond: Well, look what we have here.

Dom Harter: The second best Welsh wrestler in FGA, and Lowri Moss.

Harter smirks at her, but Lowri just rolls her eyes.

Lowri Moss: You’re not even Welsh, Dom.

Dom Harter: I’m half Welsh on my mother’s side. I swear, I don’t know how many times I have to tell them this.

Chris Bond: Kids today, they just don’t listen.

Neal Durden: Didn’t he say on his fath--

Dom Harter: No, you’re mistaken.

There’s an awkward silence as Lowri and Neal turn to each other, wondering how they might get out of this conversation.

Lowri Moss: Look, I’ve got a title match to get ready for, so unless you’re here to apologise for what you said earlier tonight, Dom…

Dom Harter: Apologize? For what?!

Lowri Moss: Don’t think I didn’t hear the sh--things you and Jae were saying about me earlier. About how I can’t win the matches that matter, about how I’m just going to be holding that Mid-Atlantic Legacy title for Jae until she gets better.

Bond just shakes his head in dismay as Dom looks at him, a horrified look on his face.

Dom Harter: I’m not sure what you inferred from what we said earlier - but bygones!

Harter waves his free hand through the air (his other arm still wrapped around the shoulders of an uncomfortable looking Neal Durden) - only to have it swatted down by an angry Lowri Moss. Again, Bond just shakes his head as he moves behind Lowri.

Lowri Moss: No, you don’t get to just say bygones and pretend this never happened.

Dom Harter: Go on…

Lowri Moss: I’m not some pushover, Dom. You’ve been taking your shots since I got here, and enough is enough.

Another moment of silence as Lowri tries to square up to The Tenacious Little Bastard.

Dom Harter: I really wish you’d reconsider…

Neal Durden: What the--

He says as Bond grabs Lowri from behind, holding her back as Dom sweeps Neal’s good leg out from under him! Durden hits the concrete floor with a thud, and Harter lays the boots in, stomping away at Neal as Lowri Moss struggles to break free from The Battle Hardened Veteran’s grasp.

Lowri Moss: Stop!

But the pleas go unanswered as Dom grabs Neal’s leg, and swings it against the wall! That injured right ankle smacking against the breezeblock as Durden howls in pain. Unwavering, Harter moves closer to Lowri, who’s still being held back by a sneering Chris Bond.

Dom Harter: I really, really wish you had reconsidered…

The goading is met by a swift response, however, as Lowri rears her head back to spit right in Dom’s face. Harter stands there for a moment, unmoving, before finally wiping the spit from off his nose. He cleans it off, wiping his hand down Lowri’s chest before walking away in silence. Bond releases his grip and pushes Lowri away and against the wall. Instead of giving chase, she kneels down next to her tag team partner, as The New Murder walk away.

[FGA Office]

• FRONTIER LIONS CUP (Qualifying Round) •
Owen Gonsalves vs. Mercy Williams

The electronic ethnic beats echo through the speakers kicking into the chorus of "Mercy" by Badshah. Mercy Williams struts on to the stage with a sly smirk upon her face soaking in the reaction from the audience. Mercy walks down the walkway emphasizing hips to the movements of beat of the music .

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is a Qualifying Match for the 2017 Frontier Lions Cup! Introducing first, representing The New Murder! From Sydney, Australia! She is “The Emerald Jewel” MERCYYYYY WILLLLLLIAAAAMMMMSSS!!!

Mercy climbs up to the apron and spins around on her right knee down and her left leg bent and and gets her feet blowing a kiss to the fans. Mercy ducks under the top rope to climb into the ring and poses with her arms spread with swagger.

Kris Cruise: Mercy Williams has the opportunity to do what Fenrys couldn’t and that’s advance to the First Round of the Frontier Lions Cup!

Stephy Auger: What happened earlier was a fluke. Nothing more, nothing less. But all will be right in the world when Williams advances here in this match. She eliminated Gonsalves two weeks ago in the Battle Royal. The same result will happen in this match.

Kris Cruise: You said that for Fenrys’ match with Ace Watson and look how that turned out!

The hard bass beat of Run The Jewels' "Blockbuster Night Part I" vibrates throughout the arena as the crowd immediately look down the aisle way in anticipation of the man about to step out from behind the curtain.

'Bunches and bunches
Punches is thrown until you’re frontless
Oodles and oodles
Bang bullets at suckers' noodles
Last album? Voodoo!
Proved that we was fuckin' brutal
I’m talking crazy, half past the clock is cuckoo'

As soon as Killer Mike spits the first words of the song, "Indestructible" Owen Gonsalves steps through to a pop from the audience as he flips up the collar of his old mentor's ring jacket and begins to analyse the crowd. Once El-P's verse begins, The Submission Alchemist immediately begins to walk down towards the ring, mouthing the words to the song as he acknowledges a few of the folks in the front row.

J.A. Aldridge: And her opponent, from Melbourne, Australia! Weighing in at 202 pounds! He is “Indestructible” OWENNNN GONNNNSAAAAALVESSSS!!!

'Look at these kiddies, Mike
I'm a rat-a-tat 'em for living
I deal in dirty work
Do the deed and then dash
Ditch 'em'

Having made his way to the bottom of the ramp, Owen starts shadow boxing to the camera at the bottom of the ramp before throwing an elbow in the camera's direction as El-P says 'ditch 'em'. Owen climbs on the apron and up on the second turnbuckle, looking out to the audience before hopping in the ring. The music slowly fades as Owen removes his ring jacket and begins to warm up, awaiting for the match to start.

Kris Cruise: Gonsalves has the chance to join his Shootcmap brethren in the First Round. But you can bet that Mercy Williams will want some revenge for what happened to Fenrys earlier. You mentioned that Williams eliminated Gonsalves in the Battle Royal from two weeks ago. But it was actually Williams, along with Fenrys, Molly Reid and Chris Bond who eliminated Gonsalves. It took four members of The New Murder to eliminate him! This time, it’s just Williams by her lonesome!

The bell sounds as Gonsalves and Williams start things off with a lock up. Gonsalves quickly gains the advantage with a side headlock before performing a standing switch and transitioning into a hammerlock from behind. The ref checks in with the Emerald Jewel and asks if she wants to give up. But Williams refuses. She then leans forward before reversing into a hammerlock of her own. Gonsalves then fakes a back elbow to the face before reaching down and yanking one of Williams’ legs out from under her. As he turns around and goes to turn her over into a single leg crab, Williams uses her free leg to push him down to the mat. After both grapplers return to their feet, Williams is quick to place Gonsalves in a front facelock. But Gonsalves is able to use his strength advantage and moves her across the ring against the ropes. After Gonsalves grabs the middle rope, the ref gives Williams until the count of five to break the hold.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Williams reluctantly lets go. As Gonsalves lifts his head up, the crowd boos when Williams nails him with a European Uppercut. Williams hits him with two more European Uppercuts that knock him back towards the center of the ring before going for an irish whip. But Gonsalves reverses the irish whip and brings Williams down to the mat shoulder-first with an arm wringer. Gonsalves quickly drops down and places Williams in a grounded hammerlock. The ref quickly gets down and asks Williams if she wants to give up. When she refuses, Gonsalves delivers a quick knee drop to the arm before applying more pressure to the grounded hammerlock. The Emerald Jewel can be seen grimacing while she’s trapped on the canvas. The referee continues to ask her if she wants to give up. But once again, Williams refuses. Once Gonsalves hears the refusal, he hits another quick knee drop to the arm before quickly slipping on an arm-trap crossface.

Kris Cruise: Williams is really in no man’s land now! This is the last place she wants to be in a match against Gonsalves!

The crowd cheers upon seeing Williams trapped in another submission. When she refuses to quit, Gonsalves can be seen tugging back over and over as he fights for the submission. The Emerald Jewel howls in pain while she continues to be trapped in the hold. After refusing to quit once more, Williams begins to use her free arm to slowly pull herself towards the side of the ring. Gonsalves shakes his head as he keeps tugging away at her neck to get the submission. But to Williams’ credit, she hangs on. Williams begins to slowly pull herself towards the side of the ring. She then reaches out with her free arm… and grabs the bottom rope, resulting in boos from the crowd. Gonsalves signs before reluctantly releasing the hold.

Stephy Auger: Did you see the fight she just showed to get out of that hold? Of course you didn’t!

Gonsalves picks up Williams and goes for an irish whip. But Williams reverses with an irish whip feint into a double knee armbreaker. The crowd boos upon seeing Gonsalves go down and hold his arm.

Kris Cruise: Gonsalves is down and he might be hurt!

Stephy Auger: Good! That’s what he gets for trying to injure Williams’ arm!

Williams gets back to her feet before stomping away at the arm. She reaches down, picks up Gonsalves and wrenches the arm before trying to repeatedly yank it from out of its socket. The last yank causing Gonsalves to drop down to a knee. After pulling Gonsalves back up to his feet, Williams delivers a series of short-arm shoulder blocks using her good arm. She then lifts up the arm before delivering an armbreaker across her shoulder. Gonsalves howls in pain as he staggers over to the ropes. After delivering a forearm smash to the lower back, Williams follows up with a hammerlock around the top rope. Gonsalves yelps in pain while the ref gives Williams until the count of five to break the hold.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Williams reluctantly lets go. She then delivers a front kick to the back of the shoulder blade. After turning Gonsalves around, she rocks him with another European Uppercut before sending him into the far ropes with an irish whip. When Gonsalves returns, Williams runs him over with a running shoulder block to his bad arm. She quickly drops down and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Gonsalves kicks out.

After Williams brings Gonsalves back to his feet, he shoves Williams away from him to create distance between the two. But Williams isn’t about to let up. She wants to stay on him. So she heads back over to attack. But she ends up eating a shoot kick to the chest. After Williams is knocked back a few steps, Gonsalves heads over and knocks her back with another shoot kick to the chest. Gonsalves then marches over and blasts her with a third shoot kick, knocking Williams back into the ropes. The crowd cheers as Gonsalves unloads on her with a series of shoot kicks in the corner. The crowd counts each kick…

Crowd: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR! FIVE! SIX! SEVEN! EIGHT! NINE! TEN!

Gonsalves takes Williams by the wrist and sends her into the opposite corner with an irish whip. He then runs across the ring and throws out a European Uppercut with his good arm. But Williams moves out of the way, causing him to crash into the corner. Williams quickly follows up with a schoolboy.

ONE!
.
Williams gets her feet on the middle ropes
.
TWO!
.
.
THR-NO!

Gonsalves kicks out.

Kris Cruise: Williams nearly stole this match from Gonsalves!

Stephy Auger: How do you figure?

Kris Cruise: She had her feet on the ropes!

Stephy Auger: When? All I saw was the schoolboy.

Kris Cruise: … sure you did...

Gonsalves tries to get back up. But he’s met with a running knee lift, knocking him through the ropes and onto the apron. As Gonsalves goes to pick himself up on the apron, Williams quickly grabs the bad arm and drops down to the mat, delivering an armbreaker across the top rope. Gonsalves howls before tumbling down to the floor.

Williams rolls to the outside. After putting the boots to Gonsalves, she picks him up, hammerlocks the arm and throws him shoulder-first into the steel steps. The boo continues as she takes Gonsalves, rolls him back inside and then drags his upper body out onto the apron. She then presses down on the back of his neck with both hands, choking him across the edge of the apron. The ref gives her until the count of five to break the choke.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Williams gladly brakes the chokes as she takes several steps back… only to rush over and nail Gonsalves in the side of the head with a running front dropkick. The boos continue as she slides back in and makes the cover.

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

Stephy Auger: Admit it, Cruise! Go ahead and amdit the fact that Williams is having her way with Gonsalves!

Williams picks up Gonsalves and slams him face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning him around, Williams delivers a series of shoulder blocks. After taking Gonsalves by the wrist, she goes for an irish whip. But Gonsalves reverses with an irish whip feint into a double knee armbreaker of his own. The crowd cheers as Williams goes down.

Kris Cruise: Williams just got a taste of her own medicine!

Stephy Auger: NOOOO!

Williams turns over and begins pulling herself up using the ropes. Once she’s back to a vertical base, Gonsalves latches onto her from behind and applies a sleeper hold. He then goes for a sleeper suplex, but Williams is quick to wrap her arms around the top rope. That doesn’t stop Gonsalves, though, as he continues to try to yank Williams off the ropes in the hopes that he can hit the sleeper suplex. The ref then goes over and tries to separate the two. While the ref’s distracted, the crowd boos when Williams low blows Gonsalves with a mule kick. Gonsalves cringes as he slowly releases the hold before collapsing to the canvas.

Kris Cruise: OH C’MON!

With Gonsalves down, Williams turns and heads into the ropes. When she comes back, she delivers Mercy On Me (split-legged leg drop).

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Gonsalves kicks out.

Williams picks up Gonsalves, wrenches the arm and delivers several clubbing strikes across it. After a knee to the midsection doubles him over, Williams brings Gonsalves down with an inverted headlock backbreaker. She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Gonsalves gets his good shoulder up.

After bringing Gonsalves back to his feet, Williams whips him into the far ropes. When Gonsalves returns, Williams knocks him down with a bicycle kick to the bad shoulder. The boos continue as Williams heads out onto the apron. After walking along the apron, she goes to climb up to the top turnbuckle. As soon as she gets one foot on the top turnbuckle, the crowd cheers when Gonsalves runs up the turnbuckles and brings her down to the canvas with a flying cross armbar.

The crowd cheers as Gonsalves repeatedly pulls back on the arm. Williams howls in pain while the ref asks her if she wants to give up. The ref continues to ask if she wants to submit. Williams refuses. So Gonsalves repeatedly brings his leg down across her face. After releasing the hold, Gonsalves picks up Williams and sends her into the corner with an irish whip. Gonsalves runs across the ring and connects with a jumping knee strike, sending Williams slumping down in the corner. Gonsalves steps back to the center of the ring before running back into the corner and hitting a cannonball senton. The cheers continue as he drags Williams out of the corner before making the cover.

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

Gonsalves picks up Williams and goes for an irish whip. But Williams counters with a irish whip feint into a  European Uppercut. She then turns and runs towards the ropes. Upon her return, she goes for a running spear. But Gonsalves counters with another jumping knee strike to the head. Gonsalves pulls up Williams from behind before hitting a bridging Paroxysm (snap dragon suplex).

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

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

Kris Cruise: How did Williams get her shoulder up!?

Stephy Auger: I don’t know, but thank God she did!

Gonsalves pulls up Williams from behind, rolls her out in front of him and knocks her down with the Darkest Lariat (wristlock short-arm lariat). Gonsalves keeps a hold of the wrist! After pulling Williams back to her feet, he clocks her with the Soul-Stealing 7-Star Strike (running bicycle knee strike). With Williams seemingly out on her feet, Gonsalves pushes her down before hooking her arms, lifting her up and planting her with the Final Gambit (double underhook piledriver). The cheers continue as he makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd cheers when “Blockbuster Night Part I” hits the speakers. Gonsalves can be seen favoring his bad arm.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, OWEN GONSALVES!

The cheers continue as Gonsalves gets his good arm raised in victory.

Kris Cruise: Owen Gonsalves advances, defeating Mercy Williams in this Qualifying Match! So much for yours and Dom’s prediction!

Stephy Auger: Don’t act so smug, Cruise!

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •