Vertigo (11.11.17)

[FGA Office]

• Frontier Lions Cup (First Round) •
Ace Watson vs. Flavia Rocha

J.A Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for ONE fall and it is a First Round Match in the 2017 Frontier Lions Cup Tournament!

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: Introducing first, weighing in at 135 pounds, from Florianopolis, Brazil...She is FLLLLAAAAAVIIIAAAA ROOOOOOCHAAA!

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.

Kris Cruise: Here we go with the second first round match in the 2017 Frontier Lions Cup! We, of course, saw Daniel Widdel and Kol face off in what was one hell of a match and certainly something Flavia Rocha and her opponent are going to have an interesting time trying to live up to!

Stephy Auger: I'd like to say that they should be focused on trying to beat each other as soundly and quickly as possible to make a proper dent in this tournament but knowing these two idiots, something tells me they're going to try and 'put on a show' for these North Little Rock sweathogs!

Kris Cruise: Well, that's...rude.

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. "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 her opponent, weighing in at 225 pounds, from London, England...He is AAAAAACCCCEEEEE WAAAAAAAATSONNNN!

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.

Stephy Auger: I wonder if that cute little Shootcamp reunion is going to get Ace all sloppy in this match or if maybe, just maybe, it's going to light a fire underneath him. We've been killing to see that aggressive side, that we know he has, return but this whole good boy act seems to have him blinded.

Kris Cruise:I think that's a bit of a rough call, Ace has had some major success since arriving here in FGA, he hasn't quite won the big one but I think the further he gets in a tournament like the Frontier Lions Cup, perhaps the closer we get to seeing him win that big match.

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 then watches his opponent.  

Kris Cruise: Plenty of Tuck related shirts out in the audience tonight, as well as Shootcamp shirts. They're growing in popularity the young tag team but Flavia could very well put a halt to any momentum the Shootcamp brand has by picking up a win over Ace and advancing in this FLC.

The bell sounds and there's an air of confidence from both competitors as they slowly circle the ring around each other. The fans are already split on who, out of the two fan favourites, they want to see win.

"SHOOT-CAMP! FLA-VIA! SHOOT-CAMP! FLA-VIA! SHOOT-CAMP! FLA-VIA"

Kris Cruise: Split crowd tonight for the English and Brazilian natives!

Both competitors take a moment to acknowledge the dueling chants as they continue to circle before the emotion of the situation takes hold of Rocha as she climbs up a turnbuckle and fires up the hot crowd even more. Watson smiles for a moment before suddenly spotting the opportunity to get an advantage over Flavia, she hops down and turns around right into a running European Uppercut from Ace! Rocha goes flying back into the corner, hitting the buckles hard before richocheting back into a small package!

ONE!
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TWO!
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Rocha kicks out!

Watson rolls up to his knees as Flavia rolls onto her fours and stares daggers back at Watson who can't help but throw a bit of a cheeky smile in her direction.

Stephy Auger: That's what I'm talking about, some damn hunger from Watson for once! Get back on her!

Watson pushes himself back up to his feet as Flavia does the same and they waste no time in rather aggressively locking up in a collar and elbow tie up, but the much stronger Watson gains the advantage and pulls Rocha in for a headlock, tightening his grip while grinding his forearm under her cheekbone. Flavia goes to push Watson off but Ace halts the momentum by throwing his thigh into her abdomen before flipping her onto her back with a swift headlock takeover, keeping hold of her on the mat now.

Kris Cruise: There's that 90 pound weight differential coming into play, Watson is going to have to really make the most of that and keep Flavia grounded tonight if he wants to win this match.

Stephy Auger: Flavia can't let the bigger man ground her if she wants to stand a chance, Ace's got the experience edge by a good seven years as well so he knows how to handle a firecracker like Flavia inside the ring.

The pace has been cut down immediately but Flavia throws her legs up and wraps it around Watson's head, catching him in a headscissors. Ace tries to pull his head out but he's stuck like an ostrich in the sand. Flavia tightens her legs around his jaw and neck as Watson firmly places his hands on either side of her and does a rather impressive handstand, showing some unusual party tricks that we aren't acquainted with. Suddenly he pushes off and pops his head out while coming to a standing position, much to the delight of the crowd, and much to the chagrin of Flavia Rocha. Watson extends his hand out, offering to help her to her feet as immediately this sparks controversy with the North Little Rock audience. They're once again split as some are goading her to accept the gesture while the other half are suggesting otherwise.

Kris Cruise: I don't know about this, Ace Watson isn't a bad man but he knows how to get an advantage over someone and this might be one of those tactics.

Stephy Auger: Or he's just being a gentleman...actually, probably not, you're right.

Flavia looks weary for a moment before hesitantly grabbing Watson's hand, allowing him to pull her back up to her feet...and he doesn't let go of her hand, instead pulling her in for a Half Nelson and hoisting her off her feet for an attempted Suplex but he can't seem to get her over! She's done well to drop her hips and make every pound on her heavier than normal as Watson slowly lifts her up but by this point she has enough wherewithal to throw a back elbow right on his mouth as he drops her. Watson instantly recovers though dropping to the mat and rolling her up with a school boy!

ONE!
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Flavia rolls through.

Rocha rolls all the way back up the her feet and immediately throws both her boots into Ace's moneymaker, with a successful Dropkick! Watson rolls backwards onto the mat before scrambling to his feet just to get caught with a huge Hurricanrana, sending the Englishman across the squared circle. Watson rolls back up to his feet and is met with a huge Bicycle Kick right to his jaw as he staggers back into the corner. The crowd is fired up as Flavia hits the opposing corner before charging in with a huge running knee lift, driving her knee right under Ace's chin before falling into a headlock and moving out of the corner with a bulldog- NO! As Flavia pushes off the canvas, Ace tosses across the ring with her momentum! He immediately rolls her up to her feet, hooks in a front facelock and slings her over for a perfectly executed Snap Suplex, there's a floatover!

ONE!
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TWO!
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Flavia gets her shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Just as Flavia got rolling, Ace showed that experience you talked about, Stephy! He was smart enough to remain on the attack while she was dazed and negated the leverage work she put in earlier with his previous suplex attempt.

Stephy Auger: As much as he's a bit of a softy from time to time, you've got to give Ace his credit, he's a thinking man's wrestler.

There's a sneaking hint of frustration in Watson as immediately latches on a grounded headlock while he works out his next plan of attack. Once again Flavia goes for the headscissors, but Watson has it scouted, releasing the headlock and rolling over her legs to keep them down before he gets up to his feet, hooks one of her legs and rolls through with an impressive Ranger Roll up into a Fireman's Carry position, from there he throws her leg over and whips her to the mat with an Alabama Slam!

Stephy Auger: Holy shit, that was smooth.

Kris Cruise: Watson is on point with these transitions tonight, making full use of this weight advantage once again! Devastating Alabama Slam!

Rocha clutches the back of her head in agony as Watson drags her in position before scaling to the top rope. Watson has his eyes firmly set on a prone Rocha before launching himself off the top rope with an Elbow Drop....BUT THERE'S NOBODY HOME! Watson writhes around in agony, clutching his elbow as Flavia pulls herself up with the help of the ropes. Watson stumbles up to his feet as Flavia does a hop, skip and a jump right into a DDT! Watson lands on the crown of his head, the impact sending him forward into a seated position before he crumbles to the canvas. Flavia rolls him over and hooks the leg.

Kris Cruise: Face Meets Mat! Cover!

ONE!
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TWO!
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T-NO!

Watson, somehow, manages to get the shoulder up!

Flavia pushes herself off of Ace, breathing heavily for a moment as she double checks that it was just a two count. She slowly rises to her feet before rolling Watson up to his feet as well, she strikes him with a hard forearm right to the jaw that wakes him up if anything. Watson fires back with a hard forearm smash of his own that staggers Flavia before she throws another forearm right on the cheek of Ace, causing him to grimace.

Kris Cruise: This...isn't a good idea on Flavia's part, she's getting desperate here but throwing hands with Ace Watson is not recommended.

Flavia fires off another one, and another one...and another one! She keeps nailing Ace with successive forearm shots before throwing a hard slap across his face. Ace goes for a swing but Flavia ducks under and darts towards the ropes, springboarding off the second and GOING FOR A LIP BUSTER- NO! Ace ducks under as Flavia manages to land on her feet and hit the opposing set of ropes, Ace is there as he drops down in an attempt to trip her up but she hops over him and keeps going. She hits the ropes again and as Ace gets to his feet she wipes him out with a Sling Blade! Rocha rolls up to her feet but Ace is running on adrenaline now as he finds his way back up to his feet as well, this time Flavia runs at him looking for another Bicycle Kick but Ace bypasses her and hits the ropes, Flavia spins around and she's taken down with a Sling Blade from Ace! Both competitors are down!

Stephy Auger: Anything you can do I can do better, that's what these two have succumbed to in this all out war!

Kris Cruise: This is what advancing into the next round of the Frontier Lions Cup means to these two, they are throwing absolutely everything at each other here tonight in North Little Rock, Arkansas!

The fans are showing their appreciation for yet another great match on Vertigo as both Ace and Flavia are flat on their backs, heaving in as much oxygen as they can. They both begin stirring at the same time, their heads meeting in the middle as they slowly rise to their knees. Flavia once again cracks a hard open hand slap across Ace's cheek as there's a collective 'oooo' from the live audience. Watson smiles and eggs her on to hit him harder, to which she obliges with a hard slap to the other side of his face! The intensity of the battle is at it's peak as Watson once again eggs her on to hit him as hard as she can. Flavia pops up to her feet and fires off shoot kicks to Watson's chest, each one harder than the last as the sweat flies off of Ace's body! The grimace on Watson's face is apparent as he eats each painful blow one by one, perhaps waiting for a moment to retaliate. Rocha is feeling the energy in the air now as she turns on her tail and sprints to the ropes, springboarding off the second, going for Lip Buster again...BUT THIS TIME SHE'S CAUGHT AND DROPPED WITH A HUGE SCOOP POWERSLAM! Ace pulls Flavia up, hooks her in and hoists her up in the air before bringing her back to down to earth with a Brainbuster! He scrambles into a lateral press!

ONE!
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TWO!
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THR-NO! NO!

Flavia Rocha, somehow, someway, manages to kick out yet again and Ace Watson cannot believe it!

Kris Cruise: Every step of this match, just when it looked like Flavia got going, Ace Watson has been there to shut her down, but the heart within this Brazilian firecracker is far too much it seems! Flavia will not stay down and Ace is beside himself!

Watson immediately pulls her back up to her feet and locks her into a Full Nelson, signalling for the end.

Stephy Auger: He's going for The Replay here! But Flavia's dropped her hips again, Ace has been in this match too long to carry Flavia at a controlled weight!

This gives Flavia enough time to drive the heel of her boot right onto the foot of Watson as he lets her go. She takes two steps forward before flipping back and connecting with a perfect Pele Kick! Watson is out on his feet as Rocha scurries back up to hers, she's a little loopy from Ace's onslaught but she hits the ropes and charges back with a flying forearm, dropping Watson where he stands before kipping up to the roar of the crowd! She rolls Watson up to his feet and sends him off to the ropes, but he counters and sends her off with the same momentum,  she hits the ropes and charges back as Watson leapfrogs over as she hits the opposing set of ropes, hopping over Ace who was going for another drop down. She hits the ropes once again and takes Ace's head off with a dropkick! Watson is sent through the ropes and to the outside, Flavia fires up the crowd before hitting the ropes once again and diving over the opposing set and to the outside, wiping out Ace Watson!

Kris Cruise: TOOOOPPEEE COOOON HILLLOO! And she lands on her feet!

The momentum sends Flavia forward into the guardrail where she's embraced by some fired up fans in the front row, but she's got her eyes on the prize now. She immediately picks Ace up and with all her might rolls his 225 pound frame back into the ring. Watson is persistent to get back to his feet as Flavia slides back in and runs past Ace, springboarding off the second AND FINALLY CONNECTING WITH HER PATENTED KICK RIGHT TO THE MOUTH!

Stephy Auger: LIP BUSTER! SHE'S NAILED IT!

Watson is turned inside out as Flavia runs both her hands through her hair, as she eyes Watson who miraculously is pushing himself back up slowly! Rocha can't believe that Watson is still showing signs of life, but a realization comes over her that she can have this match won. She hops over the ropes as Watson finally gets to his feet, albeit wobbly. Rocha flies up the buckles but slips on the second and loses her footing momentarily. She pushes off and lands back on the apron before reclimbing even quicker and finding her feet on the top.  She takes a quick breath before launching off the top!

Kris Cruise: FLAVIA...IN...YA- NOOOOO!

Stephy Auger: You're kidding me!

Watson is upright and sees her coming in the corner of his eye...and as she grabs his head in mid air for the stunner, he hooks her head as well, holding her in! He has her trapped in an inverted facelock before swiftly twisting under her and dropping her face first into the mat with a Rolling Cutter!

Kris Cruise: What a counter! Ace reverses the Corkscrew Stunner...Flavia In Ya Eye into ...INTO AN ANGLIAN DRIVEEERR!

Watson dives on top of her, hooking the outside leg with his hand and weaving his leg under her inside leg for a cover!

ONE!
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TWO!
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THREE!

The crowd erupts into cheers as Watson rolls off of Flavia. "Rusty Halo" by The Script blares throughout the arena as Ace pushes himself weakly into the corner.

J.A Aldridge: Here is your winner via pinfall and advancing into the quaterfinals of the Frontier Lions Cup, ACCCCEEEE WAAAATSOOON!

There's a pop from the crowd once again as the referee raises Watson's arm in the corner. Flavia is resting on her forearms, reeling from the war she's gone through. Ace pushes himself up on his knees and waddles over to her helping her upright to her knees before sharing some words with her before shaking her hand. Flavia is visibly upset about the lost but the respect shown by Watson resonates with her, and the fans in attendance. Watson drops and rolls out of the ring, allowing Flavia to receive an ovation from the crowd for her performance.

[FGA Office]

A seething James Edwards paces backstage. Jesse Pederson cautiously approaches the Burning Heart.

Jesse Pederson: James, what---

Edwards' attention turns to Jesse.

James Edwards: KOL.

Jesse Pederson: Yes, I know KOL came out during your match and distracted---

James Edwards: That son of a bitch is a dead man.

Edwards storms out of the picture.

Jesse Pederson: James, what do you mean by that?

However, it is clear the Edwards is not coming back to answer the question. Jesse looks concerned as the show heads to commercial.

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

• Frontier Lions Cup (First Round) •
Daniel Widdel vs. Kol

"Tear Away" by Drowning Pool plays throughout the arena as the audience boos loudly! Once the beat kicks in, the man formerly known as Colton Sterling steps out from behind the curtain, a smirk on his face as he looks out at the audience. He listens to them boo him before he nods and begins to make his way down to the ring.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for ONE FALL! And it is a First Round Match in the Frontier Lions Cup! Introducing first, from Buffalo, New York! Weighing in at 233 pounds… KOOOOOOLLLLLL!!!

Kol doesn't pay attention to any of the fans as he makes it to ringside before he slowly circles the ring, keeping his eyes locked on the squared circle. Once he's circled the ring fully, Kol hops on the apron and wipes his feet on it before entering the ring. The New Yorker then finds the nearest corner and climbs to the middle turnbuckle, a small smile appearing on his face as he raises his hands up to some boos. Kol hops off and removes his jacket, tossing it out of the ring. He then slowly makes it to his corner and stretches there as he waits for the match to start.

Kris Cruise: The former FGA World Tag Team Champion has his chance to gain more gold by winning the Frontier Lions Cup. But he’s got to advance to the next round first. Up next for Kol is Daniel Widdel in our next First Round Match of the night. As much of a concern Daniel Widdel is, Kol has to be equally concerned that James Edwards might make his presence known in this match. You just know that Edwards is going to look for payback after Kol screwed him over earlier on.

Stephy Auger: Oh please. Widdel is talented. But he’s not in Kol’s league. If Edwards wants to come down here and interfer, then Kol will drop him with a Kol Cutter at the snap of his fingers.

Acoustic chords of "Nothing Personal" by Night Riots echo through the sound system. When the hard hitting chorus hits, Daniel Widdel steps on stage. He extends out his arms out to his sides leaning his head back soaking in the positive reaction from the fans. Daniel lowers his arms to pause for a moment to take in everything. Daniel eyed the ring while he walked down the walkway.

J.A. Aldridge: And his opponent, now residing out of Santa Monica, California! Weighing in at 215 pounds! He is “Mr. Right Now” DAAAANIIIEEELLLL WIIIDDEEELLLL!!!

Daniel jumped onto the apron and sprung himself over the top rope. Daniel went to the furthest right turnbuckle and inaudible shouted out to pump up the fans and himself. He jumped down the turnbuckle and stood in the ring.

Kris Cruise: Daniel Widdel has the opportunity to advance to the Quaterfinals at Final Frontier. But before he can meet Jackson Magnum at the Pay per View, he’s got to get through Kol first. Say what you want about Kol, but he’s one of the best in the world.

Stephy Auger: You’ve got that right. Kol will prove exactly just how great he is when he makes his way past Widdel in en route to the Quarterfinals.

The bell sounds as Widdel and Kol start things off with a lock up. After jockeying for position, Widdel gains the advantage after placing Kol in a side headlock. The hold doesn’t stay on for long as Widdel shoves Kol off into the ropes. When Kol returns, he knocks Widdel down with a running shoulder block. He turns and runs into another set of ropes as Widdel gets back to his feet. When Kol returns, the crowd boos when he knocks Widdel down with another running shoulder block. He turns and runs into another set of ropes while Widdel returns to a vertical base. When Kol comes back, Widdel leapfrogs over him. Kol continues to run the ropes. When he comes back, Widdel goes for another leapfrog. But Kol side steps, grabs him in mid air and throws him down to the canvas. He follows up with a leg drop across the back of the neck before pulling Widdel over and making the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Widdel kicks out.

Kol picks up Widdel, moves him into the corner and unleashes a series of knife edge chops that echo throughout the arena. He then brings Widdel from out of the corner before whipping him into the far ropes. When Widdel returns, Kol goes for a hip toss. But Widdel steps through it and counters with a hip toss of his own. After Kol returns to his feet, he runs back over to Widdel to attack. But he gets thrown down with an arm drag. Then another. When Kol gets back to his feet, the crowd cheers when Widdel knocks him down with a dropkick before making the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Kol kicks out.

Kris Cruise: Just like that, Widdel finds himself in control of this match.

Stephy Auger: Let’s night write off Kol just yet, okay?

Widdel picks up Kol, moves him into the corner and delivers a series of knife edge chops. He then takes Kol and sends him into the opposite corner with an irish whip. Widdel runs across the ring to attack, but a boot to the face turns him around. As Widdel staggers away from the corner, Kol runs up from behind and goes for a bulldog. But Widdel shoves him off into the ropes. When Kol returns, Widdel knocks him down with a running clothesline. Kol returns to his feet, only to get returned to the mat with another running clothesline. Kol gets back up and staggers back as Widdel approaches for another running clothesline. But Kol’s able to duck and dump Widdel over the top rope. Instead of landing hard on the floor, Widdel lands safely on the apron. When Kol turns around, Widdel throws out a right hand. But Kol ducks and counters with a gamengiri, knocking Widdel off the apron and to the floor. Kol steps out onto the apron and takes a few steps back as he waits patiently for Widdel to get into position. As Widdel begins to pick himself up, Kol runs along the apron. When Widdel turns around, the crowd boos when he gets caught with a flying knee strike that knocks him down.

Kris Cruise: Kol just crashed into Widdel with that flying knee!

Stephy Auger: Widdel’s gotta be out of it after that, right? Right!?

The boos continue as Kol takes Widdel and rolls him back inside. He slides back in, drags Widdel away from the ropes and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Widdel gets his shoulder up.

Kol picks up Widdel and sends him into the ropes. When Widdel returns, Kol sets up for a back body drop. But Widdel counters with a kick to the face. While Kol staggers back, Widdel turns and runs back into the ropes. When he returns, the crowd boos when Kol knocks him down with a high knee. He follows up with a jumping knee drop before making the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Widdel gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Widdel get’s hit with two more knees to the face. But he still avoids the dreaded three count.

Stephy Auger: For now...

Kol with another lateral press…

ONE!
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TWO!
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Widdel gets his shoulder up.

Kol grabs Widdel, turns him over onto into the prone position and places him in a front facelock before delivering knee strikes to the head. He then turns Widdel over onto his back before making the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Widdel gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Widdel gets the shoulder up again!

Stephy Auger: Widdel better stay down before Kol caves his head in with those knees.

Kol picks up Widdel, moves him into the corner and delivers a hard knife edge chop before sending him into the opposite corner with an irish whip. He then runs across the ring and nails Widdel with a double knee, doubling him over. Kol then grabs Widdel drags him away from the corner and brings him down with a neckbreaker. He follows up with a leg drop before making the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Widdel gets his shoulder up.

Kol picks up Widdel before lifting him up and dropping him with a belly to back suplex. He makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Widdel gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Another nearfall for Kol. He’s looking over at the ref. But it was only a two count, no matter how much he wanted the match to end there.

Stephy Auger: I don’t know. I think Widdel got his shoulder up late.

Kris Cruise: Of course you do.

Kol picks up Widdel and whips him into the ropes. When Widdel returns, he sees Kol setting up for another back body drop. So Widdel counters with a Spike DDT. Widdel brings Kol back to his feet, turns him around and pulls him down with a hangman’s neckbreaker. He turns over to make the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Kol kicks out.

Kris Cruise: Widdel didn’t get the three. But he did take back the momentum in this match.

Widdel quickly pulls Kol up into a seated position before running into the ropes. When he returns, the crowd cheers when he knocks Kol down with a running kick to the face. He drops down and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Kol gets his shoulder up.

Widdel brings Kol back to his feet and throws out a kick to the midsection. As soon as Kol catches his foot, Widdel follows up with an enzuigiri. While Kol stumbles back, Widdel turns and runs into the ropes. When he comes back, the crowd cheers when he throws Kol down with an STO. He makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Kol gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Kol gets the shoulder up. But Widdel’s still got him reeling!

Stephy Auger: He does not!

Kris Cruise: Stop being distracted by Kol’s abs and pay attention to the match! Widdel is taking it to him!

Widdel picks up Kol and sets him for up an Implant DDT. Before Widdel can lift Kol up, Kol grabs him, runs forward and rams him into the corner. After taking a few steps back, Kol runs into the corner. But Widdel counters with a back elbow to the face. After stumbling back, Kol runs back into the corner. This time, he gets turned around by a boot to the face. Before Widdel can attack, Kol catches him with a pelé kick. Kol gets back to his feet, grabs the dazed Widdel and sends him into the opposite corner with an irish whip. Kol runs across the ring and throws out another double knee. But this time, Widdel moves out of the way, sending Kol crashing into the turnbuckles. As Kol stumbles back, Widdel grabs him from behind and throws him down with an inverted powerslam. He then pulls Kol over and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Kol gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Only two!

Widdel takes Kol and whips him into the ropes. When Kol comes back, Widdel sets him up for a kneeling side slam when Kol counters with three elbows to the side of the head. Once Kol is free, he throws out a roundhouse kick. But Widdel ducks, lifts him up and throws him down with a belly to belly side slam. He makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Kol gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Widdel almost had him again!

Stephy Auger: Almooost doesn’t cooouuunt!

Widdel picks up Kol and whips him into the ropes. When Kol comes back, Widdel throws out a back elbow to the face. But Kol ducks and runs into the far ropes. When he returns, Widdel throws out a clothesline. But again, Kol ducks before running the ropes. When Kol comes back, he throws out a flying forearm smash. But Widdel ducks, causing Kol to accidentally take out the referee.

Kris Cruise: Oh no!

Stephy Auger: Widdel ducked on purpose!

Kris Cruise: Of course he did! So would anyone that was about to get with a flying forearm!

The ref lays sprawled out on the canvas. Kol tries to revive him, but the ref appears to be out cold. With no referee, the wheels begin to turn in Kol’s head. He then stands up and turns around. But he ends up turning into a Superman Punch! Widdel then brings Kol back to his feet, places him in a front facelock, lifts him up and drops him on his head with an Implant DDT. The cheers continue as Widdel turns over and makes the cover, but there’s no referee.

Kris Cruise: The ref is out! Widdel’s got Kol down, but there’s no referee to make the count!

Stephy Auger: Kol would have gotten his shoulder up, anyway.

Widdel gets off of Kol, heads over to the ref and tries to revive him. The ref is just now starting to come to. While the ref holds his head, Widdel stands back up and turns to go after Kol. But Kol is quick to double him over and plant him with an Evenflow DDT. While Kol and Widdel are down on the canvas, there’s a section of fans who turn their attention to their left. After the producer switches camera shots, James Edwards can be seen making his way down to the ring.

Kris Cruise: It’s The Burning Heart!

Stephy Auger: He has no business out here!

Kris Cruise: Neither did Kol earlier!

Stephy Auger: No, it’s not the same.

Kris Cruise: How is it not the same?

Stephy Auger: Kol came out there to simply watch.

Kris Cruise: Oh please! Kol knew exactly what he was doing!

Stephy Auger: It’s not his fault that Edwards was easily distracted.

Edwards makes his way up the ring steps before entering the ring. He balls his hand into a tight fist as he creeps up on Kol from behind. Once Kol gets back to his feet and turns around, Edwards rushes up and throws out a spinning backfist. But Kol ducks, causing Widdel to get clobbered with the blow to the head. Edwards is momentarily shocked after accidentally laying out Widdel.

Kris Cruise: Oh no!

Stephy Auger: Edwards just laid out Widdel! What an animal!

Kris Cruise: It was an accident!

Stephy Auger: No it wasn’t! Edwards is out of control!

Just as Edwards snaps out of it, Kol quickly grabs him from behind and brings him down with the Kol Cutter (Rolling Cutter). The boos continue as Kol grabs Edwards and tosses him out of the ring through the ropes before rushing back over and pinning Widdel. Once the ref finally shakes out the cobwebs, he turns over and sees Kol making the cover on Widdel. He starts his count…

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

The crowd erupts with boos when “Tear Away” blares throughout the arena.

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

The boos continue as Kol gets his arm raised in victory.

Kris Cruise: Kol gets the win over Daniel Widdel! He advances to the Quarterfinals, where he’ll face Jackson magnum at Final Frontier!

Stephy Auger: Ah ha ha! James Edwards tried to get some payback on Kol. But that plan ended up blowing up in his face! Smooth, Edwards. Real smooth! Ah ha ha!

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

The visual starts off by showing a montage of clips featuring Joey Perello’s historic rivalries and Ryder McKnight beating up on people who either owed him money or people he just didn’t like. The vignette comes to an abrupt end after the letters “RIP” are spelled out onto the screen, the cameras arriving in the parking lot once the show goes back live. A random guy is seen whimpering towards his car, blood noticeable on his t-shirt and jeans.

Joey Perello: Now turn around.

The cameraman does as the RIP VP says and spins around to point the camera at Spencer Burke.

Ryder McKnight: What the hell did we tell you? Shut up crying. You’re getting your salty ass tears and snot every damn where.

The cameraman calms down as best he could as Perello and Ryder each move over toward Burke’s sides, fear clear on Vertigo correspondent’s face.

Joey Perello: Remember what we said. No idiotic questions.

Swallowing down a hard gulp, Spencer moves the microphone toward his lips but freezes once Ryder wraps his arm around his shoulders. He leans in and whispers in Spencer’s ear just loud enough for the microphone to pick up on what he was saying.

Ryder McKnight: Don’t be afraid...You haven’t seen the Red Sea just yet.

Ryder chuckles a little as he looks back to the camera with a grin etched on his face.

Spencer Burke: Ri..Right. Wh..Wh...What brings the Reapers In Pride to Frontier Grappling Arts?

Perello runs his hand down his face and looks over at Ryder.

Joey Perello: One request, and this sonofabitch can’t get it right.

The RIP VP lets out a throaty sigh and crosses his arms as he fixes his attention on Spencer.

Joey Perello: Why does that matter, Spencer? Why should the Reapers in Pride not want to join one of the better wrestling establishments in the World today? We already have our hands in HKW, and for me? I had nothing left to do there. So, as dumb as the question was, the answer is very, very simple.

Perello uncrosses his arms and turns toward the camera.

Joey Perello: The opportunity to take over another territory. We’ve spoken about this in club meetings time and time again, and one day we decided to turn the talk into a reality. The Reapers are going to run the wrestling world in its entirety one day, and the way to accomplish that is by taking over Frontier Grappling Arts like we took over Hard Knox Wrestling.

Spencer gulps.

Spencer Burke: Are you..are you saying you’re invading FGA for the sole purpose to take it over?

Ryder sighs.

Ryder McKnight: Takeover. Invasion. Tomato. Tomatoe. Spencer..You all here have been way too comfortable. Look around. It’s the same ol crap every other month here in FGA. Don’t you want some spice in your lives? Some spice that nobody in your old back of used up tricks can conjure up.

He pats the interviewer on the shoulder.

Ryder McKnight: Isn’t it time to bring some fearful excitement into your lives?

Ryder now looks to the cameraman and smiles.

Ryder McKnight: Look at your friend here. I can practically feel his bones shaking...I can smell his blood rushing. He’s panicking, and we’ve barely f**king touched him. Isn’t that cause for celebration? Isn’t that something you all should welcome? Listen carefully to what the VP has to say Spencer and stop asking stupid questions.

Spencer moves the microphone back to Perello, the VP facing the camera once more.

Joey Perello: This is no warning. This statement is more of a… helpful suggestion. From this day forward, every single person in that locker room should watch their backs. Soon...very soon...we’ll be setting our first example, and it could be anyone who walks those halls, hell, it may even be someone from Flashpoint. Man or woman. Rookie or veteran. FGA elite or curtain jerker who is barely hanging onto their employment. None of you…

Perello points at the camera.

Joey Perello: None of you are safe.

Perello walks out of the picture, Spencer taking in a deep breath as he turns to Ryder.

Spencer Burke: Any last words?

Ryder smirks.

Ryder McKnight: There’ll be no escape. The Reapers are coming…

Ryder gives Spencer a hard slap on the back and follows Perello. Perello appears on the camera for a split second and lays out the man hobbling over to his car with a straight right hand, then rushes out of the parking lot with Ryder McKnight before the cameras return to ringside.

[FGA Office]

Cameras go backstage at Vertigo to see Fujiko Mine leaning against a wall and filing her nails. The crowd cheers loudly as her visage shows up on the FGATron. The look on her face is one of boredom, but something catches her eye and forces her to push herself off the wall. She narrows her eyes, seemingly studying the subject that put her into motion. She then begins to move. The camera follows as she breaks into a light jog, hoping to close the distance quickly. She slides into the path of someone…

...namely, the FGA Pride champion, Chris Madison. The crowd also cheers, seeing Madison and Fujiko in the same shot for the first time in a while. Fujiko looks up at Madison, a calm demeanor taking over.

Fujiko Mine:  Wait a second, would you?

Madison pulls up reluctantly, tilting his head up into the air and placing his hands up on his hips. Slowly he turns around as Fujiko narrows the gap between the champion and soon-to-be challenger.

Chris Madison: Yeah Fujiko? Don’t really got time to sit here and catch up, I kind of got a match against Chris Bond to get out there for…

She nods in his direction.

Fujiko Mine: I’m aware. Listen, keep an eye behind you during this match with Bond. Ever since he’s joined the New Murder, he’s been particularly ruthless. Not only that, but he’s been keen to use his new friends to any extent he possibly can.

She sighs heavily.

Fujiko Mine: I know you’ve got what it takes to beat him, but don’t think that just because you can in a one-on-one fight that he’s going to play fair. Watch your back, beat him, and then get out of there. Even if he loses, doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Just some friendly neighborhood advice.

Madison slowly nods his head while contemplating the advice given by the Pride Championship’s number one contender.

Chris Madison: Appreciate the advice, but it won’t be the the first time the numbers are against me and I’m sure it won’t be the last. If The New Murder wants to come out and play games they better be ready for a fight, because I’m goin’ down swingin’!

Fujiko’s expression doesn’t change.

Fujiko Mine: You don’t have to go it alone. You know it’s in my best interests to make sure you...or whomever is the Pride champion...makes it the match I’ve been promised at one hundred percent. And no matter what Brian Stryker decides, I’ll be waiting.

She suddenly beams at him.

Fujiko Mine: Best of luck, champ.

She mimes a light punch to the arm, not even coming close before sauntering off, leaving Madison to approach his match with Chris Bond.

[FGA Office]

• SINGLES MATCH •
Chris Madison vs. Chris Bond

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

The house lights dim in the smaller facility, and New Murder-colored lights soon flicker throughout the filled-to-the-brim center. The crowd jumps to it's feet, blowing the roof off from the much smaller arena as Chris Bond makes his way out from behind the curtains. As he emerges from behind the curtain, there is a large burst of resentment from the crowd. With a spotlight lighting his way, Bond, accompanied by the villainess Crimson Baroness, makes his way down the aisle and towards the ring, even slapping away a few hands along the way. Soon enough he jogs up the stairs, and walks along the ring apron before wiping his feet. More boos reign down upon him as he stops and sneers at the crowd. Bond points to his shirt and smirks, before brushing off the jeers from the crowd. He presses his leg between the bottom and middle rope to make room for TCB to enter the ring. Upon her entrance into the ring, the crowd erupts into another chorus of booing! Bond shouts a few words of profanity before he too steps into the squared circle.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for ONE FALL! Introducing first, being accompanied by The Crimson Baroness, and representing The New Murder! Weighing in at 242 pounds! He is “The Battle-Hardened Veteran” CHRIIIIIIIS BOOOOOND!!!

The self-proclaimed legend of the wrestling world walks to the center of the ring and stands there for a moment, as flashes go off through out the waves of fans. The Baroness joins him, using her hands to emphasize his presence. Bond circles the ring, arms outstretched and shouting about how great he is, as the fans boo loudly once again. Bond clearly enjoys this, as his trademark smirk re-emerges on his face. Heading to his corner, Bond removes his t-shirt and hands it to the Baroness before doing a few stretches. He and TCB exchange words as they await for the bell.

Stephy Auger: There he is, Cruise, the man who showed Johnny Karma exactly what he’s capable of two weeks ago.

Kris Cruise: The match ended with a gangland beat down of the Undisputed Champion, Stephy. I don’t think that’s the best example of what Chris Bond is capable of.

Stephy Auger: There’s just no pleasing you. Bond has found a renewed sense of vigor since joining The New Murder, and if the last Vertigo didn’t impress you then maybe him beating the reigning Pride champion will.

The arena's lights dim to black as the opening guitar riffs to "War Machine" by KISS begin to screech over the P.A. system. The video screen lights up with visual static noise. Suddenly in the center of the screen a black hand print begins pulsating to the beat of the drum that has began to play. A spotlight shines on the entrance ramp and we see Chris Madison standing with his head bowed under a black towel, wearing an official FGA licensed t-shirt that says, "Always Ready For War," across the chest. He nods his head to the music and as the chorus breaks he rips the towel from his head and tosses it into the live audience, starting his way down the ramp toward, the ring.

Better watch out 'cause I'm a war machine
Better watch out 'cause I'm a war machine

J.A. Aldridge:And his opponent. Coming to the ring from Long Island, New York, weighing in at two hundred twenty pounds and standing six feet tall, "Mayhem" CHRIS MAAADDIISSOONN!!!

Madison makes it to the base of the steps and places one foot down before scoping out the fans directly behind him by peering over his shoulder. He smirks as the live audience sings along to the entrance music and then marches up the steps and climbs through the ropes. He immediately leaps up onto the middle rope and faces out towards the crowd. He brings his fists up to his face and punches his jaw with each hand before shooting his arms out horizontally with his hands wide open, welcoming whatever challenge is coming his way. Madison hops backwards, bouncing off of his feet and turns towards the center of the ring, snarling and ready to go…

Kris Cruise: Chris Madison has contenders lining up around the block for a shot at that Pride title of his, but he doesn’t have to worry about Fujiko Mine, James Edwards, or Brian Stryker tonight.

Stephy Auger: He’s got a former Pride champion standing across that ring from him instead.

Kris Cruise: You’re right; Chris Bond is a former Pride champion, although I’m not sure if Pride is how I’d describe his current attitude.

The bell sounds to start the match as both men step out of their corners to circle the ring for a few moments. The crowd rallying behind Madison as he locks up collar and elbow with Bond; they jockey for position, pushing each other around the ring as Madison dives around the back with a rear waist lock. But the crafty veteran, Bond, manages to grab onto the wrist and leverages it so he spins away into a standing wrist lock. Wrenched once for good measure, but Madison is prepared for him; Mayhem rolls through and reverses the hold, trying to hook the leg with his own.

But Bond throws his down to the mat, with the wrist lock still applied. He torques the joint as Madison tries to push him away, but to no avail. Instead he has to swivel his legs to bring himself back to a vertical base. The Pride champion drops to his back and brings one leg over the arm of his opponent, allowing him to counter the submission hold successfully this time, and as he stands back up he has Chris Bond in the wrist lock.

Kris Cruise: How's that for beating Bond at his own game, Stephy?

Stephy Auger: That doesn’t prove anything.

Bond is down on one knee as Madison reaches down to apply a headlock variant. He uses the grip to bring Bond back to his feet, but The Battle Hardened Veteran knows his way out of this one. He pries at the champion’s fingers, loosening the grip before he rolls through, smacks away the wristlock and follows up with a basement dropkick to the knee. TCB applauds from the corner, but her appreciation isn’t matched by the crowd who boo Bond as he tells Madison to get back up.

Bond stomps at his fallen opponent as Madison does his best to move towards the ropes, using them to pick himself up. But Bond is relentless in his pursuit; he clubs at the back of the Pride champion, forcing him down throat first across the middle rope with a knee across the back.

Referee: One, two, three, four!

The choke hold is released, and Bond backpedals away from Madison; the referee tags along, admonish the Battle Hardened Veteran for nearing the five count. But with the official’s back turned, TCB takes the opportunity to choke Madison further – much to the chagrin of the crowd!

Kris Cruise: Now we see why Chris Bond lets her accompany him to the ring.

Stephy Auger: And the referee is none the wiser, brilliant! Even after what Jimmy Page put her through a few weeks ago, The Crimson Baroness is still out here supporting her man. What spirit.

Kris Cruise: …sure, let's go with that.

TCB let's go before the referee turns back around, however, and innocently walks away as Madison falls to all fours, gasping for breath. And the official can only suspect what occurred, as Bond lifts his opponent back to his feet. An Irish whip sends Madison to the corner, and Bond follows him in with a running lariat! That’s followed by repeated forearm shots, and Madison is forced down to a crouched position as Bond presses his boot across the throat of his opponent.

Referee: One, two, three, four!

Bond releases the choke again, and brings his opponent out of the corner with a running bulldog before he rolls Madison over for the first pin attempt in this match.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
KICKOUT!

Kris Cruise: Chris Bond using whatever tricks he can to try and stay in control here.

Stephy Auger: Face it, Cruise, your precious Pride champion is in trouble tonight. He’s met his match.

Kris Cruise: With the addition of The Crimson Baroness on the outside, maybe Madison will have to work a bit harder than he expected against an opponent of Bond’s calibre. But he’s the Pride champion for a reason.

Madison is sat back up and immediately placed in a chinlock. The crowd still booing Bond as he and TCB share some banter, trash talking the Pride champion as he struggles to break free. Until he does! Madison starts to fight his way out, standing back up before he fires off some elbows to the midsection. Bond’s grip breaks, and he’s pushed away against the ropes – only for him to knock Madison down with a shoulder block! The crowd’s boos turn to cheers, however, as Madison rolls out of the way of the elbow drop.

Both men scramble back to their feet as Bond lunges forward with a clothesline attempt – NO! Mayhem ducks under the arm, grabbing hold as he brings Bond in close for a ripcord knee strike to the face! The Battle Hardened Veteran staggers back in a daze as Madison lunges forward with a clothesline. Down goes Bond, but he gets right back up as Madison knocks him down with another clothesline. This time Bond is a little slower to his feet as Madison runs against the perpendicular ropes to disorientate his opponent, before he takes Bond down with a Lou Thesz press!

Kris Cruise: And just like that, Chris Madison is right back in control!

The Pride champion starts raining down 12 to 6 elbows, trying to bust his opponent open. But the referee intervenes and forces Madison to stop, and allowing Bond to roll away and out under the bottom rope. The crowd booing as TCB heads over to check on her fiancé, but the pair don’t get to congregate for long; Madison charges in with a baseball slide knocking both Bond and TCB over – much to the delight of the fans. They crash back into the guardrail as Madison slides out after them; he goes straight for Bond, grabbing him by the back of the head as he sends the former Pride champion face first into the apron.

Stephy Auger: The Pride champion attacking a valet? How can you sit there and defend these actions, Cruise?

Kris Cruise: She’s a wrestler, she’s taken worse knocks than that. But it looks like Chris Bond may be in trouble on the outside here.

Bond staggers away as Madison follows close behind, clubbing at the back of his opponent as Bond stumbles. He’s sent shoulder first into the steel steps before Madison rolls him back into the ring, and the Pride champion rolls in after him. The crowd are rallying behind the champion as he lies in wait. Bond forces himself back to a vertical base once again, still unsteady on his feet as Madison grabs him from behind to deliver a pumphandle slam! And the hook of the leg.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
KICKOUT!

Bond throws the shoulder up at two, only to get brought straight back to his feet. An Irish whip sends him chest first into the turnbuckle, and Bond staggers back, right into Madison’s arms for a bridging German suplex!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
TH-NOO!

The crowd collectively sigh as Bond gets the shoulder up again, and this time Madison takes a moment to catch his breath. Kneeling over his prone foe, his hands resting on his knees, Chris looks over at TCB, who scowls back. A smile forming on the face of the Pride champion as he drags Bond back to his feet again. A hammerlock is applied before Madison spins his opponent around for the hammerlock suplex.

Kris Cruise: Bond looks to be in bad shape here. I’m not sure how much he’s got left in the tank, Stephy.

Stephy Auger: Don’t count him out yet, Cruise. There’s a reason why he’s called the Battle Hardened Veteran.

The official assure Madison it was only a two count as he beckons Bond to get back to his feet. As the former Pride champion starts to rise, Madison sets off against the ropes for some momentum – only to gte tripped up by The Crimson Baroness on the outside!

Kris Cruise: Oh, more interference here. And I bet she’s pleased with herself too.

The referee’s back was turned though, so he just sees Madison yelling at TCB over the top rope – when he’s caught from behind by a chopblock! Bond targeting that knee from the start of the match. It buckles upon contact, and Madison drops to the mat as Bond takes a moment to recover. Leaning through the ropes, he shares a quick kiss with TCB, who’s pounding the mat in encouragement. Bond grabs one of his opponent’s leg and stomps at it, before dropping an elbow down across the knee. He holds that in for a submission hold, but Madison is too close to the ropes.

The Pride champion uses the ropes to pull himself up to a vertical base, but Bond kicks at that knee from behind, bringing Madison crashing to the mat again. This time, however, Bond climbs out through the ropes as her brings his opponent towards the corner. The crowd booing heavily as Bond teases what’s to come – before wrapping Madison’s leg around the steel post!

Stephy Auger: I told you not to count him out, Cruise. And this is what’ll happen to Jimmy Page once he finally steps up to the challenge too, instead of just attacking valets after the show is over.

Kris Cruise: She’s a wrestler! She challenged Brian Stryker for the Fifteen title a week before.

The Pride champion howls in pain as Bond rolls back into the ring to break the count out. TCB continues yelling encouragement from ringside as Bond goes back to stomping at the legs. The boos continue raining down though, even more so as Bond crouches down and wraps Chris’s leg around the back of his head. Madison struggles to break free, but he can’t help but find himself locked in a stretch muffler!

Stephy Auger: He’s gonna tap, Cruise. He’s got no choice but to tap out here.

But Madison is still fighting, and crawling towards the ropes as Bond tries to stand his ground – before Madison grabs the legs and rolls through into a double leg cradle!

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

Bond kicks out in the nick of time, and scrambles to get back to his feet ahead of Madison. But the Pride champion is spry; he anticipates the charge and lowers his head, bringing Bond up onto his shoulders for an Alabama slam! Bond hits the mat hard, and the crowd cheer. But Madison staggers back against the ropes, trying not to put too much pressure on that knee. He can’t capitalize on the moment, though, as he allows Bond to stand back up. Madison moves in, only to get caught by a knee to the gut – and a rolling kneebar out of nowhere!

Kris Cruise: Misery! Right in the center of the ring!

Stephy Auger: This is it, Cruise! Victory is all but assured for Chris Bond now!

Madison howls in pain as the crowd falls almost silent, not sure if their favorite is about to tap out or not! TCB is yelling at Madison to do it, Bond is telling the Pride champion to give in. They’re stuck in the center of the ring as Bond wrenches back further.

But Madison is fighting! Inch by inch moving closer to the ropes as the referee is in position to check for the submission.

Stephy Auger: He’s got to tap, or that knee is going to cause him some serious problems in the future!

Bond wrenches tighter, and Madison howls in pain again – before he…

Madison reaches the bottom rope!

Kris Cruise: He’s safe! This match continues.

The crowd cheer again as the referee forces a break. Bond yells in anger, pounding the mat with both fists as he drags Madison towards the center of the ring and up to his feet. A spinebuster connects, throwing the Pride champion down to the mat in anger, but Bond just drags him back to his feet again, and this time plants him with a Michinoku driver! The pin follows.

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

Madison gets the shoulder up in time, and Bond can’t believe it. The Battle Hardened Veteran yells at his opponent, telling him to stay down as he stomps at the chest and face. But Madison fights through and gets to one knee. Bond brings him up and doubles him over with a knee to the gut, before positioning Madison for a piledriver…

NO! The Pride champion has the wherewithal to counter, throwing Bond overhead! He falls down to one knee again as Bond hits the mat back first. Madison moving slowly, limping as he does so, just to put some distance between them as Bond stands back up and rushes in – only to get caught by a spinebuster. With authority! The crowd roaring in delight as Madison forces himself back to his feet again. On the outside, TCB is yelling for her fiancé to get back up, and as he does so, Bond appears to be holding the back of his head.

Kris Cruise: The tide has turned, and Mayhem is in full control now, Stephy.

Stephy Auger: That knee can’t hold up much longer though, one slip, just too much pressure on it and it’ll buckle to let Bond right back in.

The Battle Hardened Veteran stands back up, stumbling slightly as Madison grabs him in a rear waist lock, before delivering the ripcord rolling elbow!

Kris Cruise: Comatosed connects!

Bond is still standing, albeit dazed, as Madison dives around the back and manages to lift Chris Bond up onto his shoulders. The pain visible on Madison’s face as he perseveres, before bringing Bond crashing to the mat with a German suplex!

Stephy Auger: NO!

Kris Cruise: End Game! This could be it!

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

J.A. Aldridge: Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this match, CHRIS MADIIIIISSSSON!

Chris Bond throwing the shoulder up a second too late as “War Machine” starts playing throughout the arena here in Little Rock. The fans on their feet cheering as the Pride champion rolls out under the bottom rope, predicting an attack. But TCB just slides in to check on Bond.

Kris Cruise: And that should serve as a notice to Fujiko, James Edwards, and Brian Stryker. Chris Madison can take a helluva lot of punishment, and still come back to win.

Stephy Auger: How did he even manage to hold Bond up on his shoulders like that?

Kris Cruise: Bond came close to making the Pride champion tap out, but even after targeting that knee for most of the match, Madison was able to focus and fight through the pain. That’s why he’s the Pride champion, Stephy, and why Vertigo is proud to have him.

The referee hands Chris Madison the Pride title, and he holds it up proudly for all to see as, in the ring, Bond and TCB both stare daggers at him.

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

Julian Tijerina is backstage, standing in front of a backdrop littered with Vertigo logos. He's got a hand on his wrist as he warms it up with rotations. Julian is wearing his wrestling gear and looks more than ready to start a fight. The pretty boy smile on his face betrays him, however. With it, he appears more lackadaisical, as if he's taking his match tonight for granted. Julian might be full of confidence, but he's not taking anything for granted. Never has. Never will be.

Julian Tijerina: On the last Vertigo, I beat the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion, Sadie San Francisco, to qualify for the Frontier Lions Cup. Tonight, I'm going to beat Owen Gonsalves in the First Round of the Frontier Lions Cup. It's not as if it's a huge step-up. I've already beaten a champion, even though that was just Sadie San Francisco. Gonsalves? Gonsalves is going to be an easy win.

Julian smirks, raising an eyebrow.

Julian Tijerina: I warned Sadie San Francisco. Heading into our match, I reminded her who her maker was. Fact! Sadie San Francisco wouldn't be your Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion today if one Julian Tijerina did not give her that opportunity. Fact! Sadie San Francisco wouldn't be your Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion today if one Brian Stryker did not cost one Julian Tijerina, and himself, the championship match. Fact! Sadie San Francisco wouldn't be your Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion today if one Julian Tijerina did not build that ladder bridge she used to destroy her own teammate. Anywhere you look, the fact remains: Without me, there wouldn't be Sadie San Francisco as your Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion.

Julian scoffs, shaking his head.

Julian Tijerina: Sadie San Francisco needs to come to terms with those facts because after I'm done with the Frontier Lions Cup, after I win the entire Frontier Lions Cup, I am coming, gunning, for MY Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship. Until then, she can keep MY Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship warm around her ugly, disgusting, tiny, little waist. But don't you guys worry. There's no need to worry, amigos. After I embarrass Owen Gonsalves in that ring, pin him clean 1-2-3, beat the rest of these "competitors" in this Frontier Lions Cup, that Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship will be coming home with me. I will be making that Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship....GUAPO!

Julian extends both arms to either side as he looks up with a huge grin on his face, celebrating...something. He continues smiling and then laughing as the camera slowly fades to black.

[FGA Office]

• Frontier Lions Cup (First Round) •
Owen Gonsalves vs. Julian Tijerina

The lights go out. A few seconds later, a creepy female voice tells everyone "open your mind" before glass breaks and "Senbonzakura" by Lindsey Stirling plays.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is a first round match in the Frontier Lion’s Cup tournament!

Out comes Julian Tijerina, bathed in varying shades of purple, with the hood of his sleeveless jacket drawn over his head. Julian bobs his head to his theme music as he takes to the middle of the stage. He feigns going down on one knee before immediately popping his head out of his hood, the lights coming back on as he does so, swallowing the purple spotlights out of sight. Grinning, Julian stretches both arms to either side of his body before firing a finger gun aimed at the ring. He then makes his way to the ring, keeping his eyes on the squared circle while occasionally high-fiving fans, without even looking them in the eye, along the way.

Stephy Auger: Here he is, Kris! Our future Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion! Our future Frontier Lion’s Cup winner! Our future future! Bask in this, Cruise.

Kris Cruise: What are you on right now?

Stephy Auger: On the same wave you should be riding. Especially since we’re right here… in GUAPO COUNTRY!

Julian stops right outside the ring, breathes deeply while shaking his hands on his sides, and then without warning jumps up on the apron. He climbs the nearest turnbuckle and stretches both his arms to either side once more. Afterwards, he leaps forward into the ring and rolls through, taking a seat on the balls of his feet against the opposite corner.

J.A. Aldridge: Introducing first, hailing from Extremadura, Spain, weighing in at two hundred and twenty pounds… “El Guapo” JUUUULIAN TIJERIIIINA!

Julian stays seated against the corner for a few seconds more before popping back to his feet. He stretches with the nearest ropes' help and waits for the match to officially begin.

J.A. Aldridge: And his oppon--

The lights in the arena fade to a rose color as the familiar sound of smooth jazz echoes throughout the building. “Young Nation” hits the PA system and a roar surges through the audience. Sadie San Francisco steps out onto the stage, a brow raised, and a small smirk on her face, expression hidden behind tinted aviators. She walks down the ramp, a hand resting on the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship around her waist. Tijerina looks to be wearing a smirk that lingers between amusement and annoyance.

Stephy Auger: Wha-- what is Selfish San Francisco doing out here?!

Kris Cruise: I don’t know, Stephy. She’s obviously not Julian’s opponent. Looks like she’s coming this way.

Sadie unstraps the championship from her waist, raising it just once in the air to a pop from the Verizon Arena. She turns away from Tijerina and walks around the ring, lightly running her hand along the outstretched hands of the fans before calmly settling into the seat next to Stephy Auger, giving the announcer a once-over and a ”hm” before pulling on a headset.

Kris Cruise: Sadie! Welcome to the table. I don’t think we’ve had you here since the brand split.

Sadie San Francisco: Don’t think so. Good to be here. Just wanted to keep an eye on some things.

Stephy Auger: What things?!

Sadie San Francisco: Just some things. Don’t worry about it.

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

Kris Cruise: And here’s the man Julian Tijerina’s scheduled to face!

'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: His opponent, from Melbourne, Australia, weighing in at two hundred and two pounds, representing Shootcamp, he is “Indestructible”... OOOOOOWEN GONSALVES!

'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. Julian leans against the corner, looking toward Owen with a grimace. El Guapo’s eyes roll out toward Sadie on commentary for a brief moment.

Kris Cruise: Already, his eyes drift out toward the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion here at ringside, but Owen Gonsalves is not the kind of person you want to compete against while distracted.

Stephy Auger: Yeah! Why are you out here trying to cause distractions, Sadie?!

Sadie San Francisco: I’m just here.

The bell sounds and Julian strides forward, immediately looking for what appears to be a slap to the face of Owen Gonsalves-- but Gonsalves catches Julian’s arm, extends it, and drives the point of his elbow into the bicep! Julian cries out and drops to a knee before Owen does it again, forcing Julian’s arm flat to the canvas as Julian is brought to both knees! Gonsalves bends the arm back and delivers a Pointed Elbow Stomp! Julian scrambles to his feet, shaking his arm as he falls against the ropes while the audience grows deafening for Owen Gonsalves, who simply takes a ready position in the middle of the ring, eyes locked on El Guapo.

Kris Cruise: One thing Julian Tijerina won’t try to do ever again… is slap Owen Gonsalves in the face.

Sadie San Francisco: Nope.

Chants of ”LET’S GO OWEN!” echo throughout the Verizon Arena, earning a deep glare from Tijerina. He walks the ropes, still shaking his right arm before bouncing toward Owen and engaging in a lock-up! Owen gains the upperhand quickly, spinning Tijerina around into a rear waist-lock, but Julian drops to his knees, reaching back to force a side headlock of sorts on Owen! Gonsalves rolls through, stacking Julian on his shoulders with a La Magistral!

ONE
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.

Both men scramble to their feet with Owen picking up the pace first, running forward, only to be caught with an Arm Drag. Owen rolls through and to his feet, catching the oncoming Julian with a high knee strike! The shot catches Julian between the eyes and he drops flat to his back! Owen drops down for a lateral press cover.

ONE
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.

Tijerina bridges out of it and delivers a stiff mule kick to the side of Owen’s jaw, sending a crack! throughout the arena! A mixed reaction surges throughout the venue and Julian shoot the ropes, rebounding for a Running Somersault Senton and connecting flush with the ribcage of Gonsalves! Julian leans back into a cover, hooking the near leg!

ONE
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.

Owen counters into a Crucifix Pin!

ONE
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TWO
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Kickout!

Kris Cruise: A back-and-forth by two fantastic Grapplers, but Julian looks a little flustered right now!

Stephy Auger: He’s not flustered. And if he was, which El Guapo is not, it would be because he’s being stared down by the enemy!

With both Grapplers back to their feet, Julian goes for a right hand but Gonsalves blocks and Irish Whips Julian into the ropes! Upon the rebound, he smashes into Julian with a European Uppercut! Julian staggers and this Owen pivots, shooting the ropes and rebounding with a second European Uppercut! The shot echoes through the Verizon Arena and Owen pivots, hitting the ropes and rebounding for a third European Uppercut, this one knocking Julian to a seated position on the middle rope. Julian shoots the ropes and returns once more, sprinting to hit a Cannonball Senton, sending both men through the ropes! Julian smacks into the apron, sandwiched between it and Owen before both men fall to the ground landing on their backs. Julian clutches at the arm Owen had targeted earlier, landing directly on top of it!

Kris Cruise: Good lord!

Sadie San Francisco: Wow.

Owen pulls himself up, yelling back out into the deafening crowd before turning toward the crawling, gasping Julian Tijerina. Julian crawls as far as the announce table, turning around into a Running European Uppercut from Owen Gonsalves! The shot jerks Julian’s head back and he leans back, falling against the table!

Stephy Auger: Not again! Leave our table alone!

A second shot knocks Julian farther back on the table but Owen grabs him by the base of the neck and the waist of his tights, rolling him back into the ring beneath the bottom rope as the ref begins his ten count. Owen leaps up onto the apron and steps through the ropes into the ring-- only to be taken down with a desperation roundhouse kick as Julian pulls himself to his feet! Julian falls against the ropes, still dazed from the onslaught, but Gonsalves is down. Owen begins pulling himself up to a knee… and Julian grunts, pushing himself off the ropes to Shining Wizard, connecting flush with Gonsalves!

Stephy Auger: Kedavra Knee! Ahhah, this might be it!

Sadie San Francisco: Hm.

ONE
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TWO
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THR--!

Gonsalves throws the shoulder up to a roar from the crowd. Julian delivers a hard forearm to the jaw, earning a groan from the crowd. He hooks Owen’s legs this time.

ONE
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TWO
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THRRR--!

Kris Cruise: And another kickout by Owen Gonsalves. Julian is trying to hide it, but I think that right arm took some heavy damage really early in the matchup. It’s evident in those two pinfall attempts.

Julian rises to his feet, but rolls his eyes and sighs aloud as he sees Owen is just a pace behind him. Julian grumbles to himself and turns, hitting a shoot kick to the left thigh of the rising Owen, knocking him back to his knees. He follows up with a shoot kick to the left thigh-- and a roundhouse kick to the side of the head! Owen reels and Julian points a finger gun at him, before shooting a wink back toward Sadie. Julian drills Owen Gonsalves with a Superkick and Gonsalves is thrown onto his back from the impact! Eyes locked on Sadie San Francisco, Julian slides into a cover, hooking the near leg of Owen Gonsalves!

ONE
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TWO
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THRRRRE-!

Owen kicks out emphatically, pushing Gonsalves clear off of him! Julian looks shocked, glaring at the ref as he rises.

Kris Cruise: Rompiendo El Hielo connects, but Gonsalves kicks out with authority!

Sadie San Francisco: Legit thought he had him there. Huh.

Stephy Auger: Don’t patronize El Guapo!

Julian cries out in frustration and goes to force Owen up into a front facelock, but Gonsalves counters with a European Uppercut that sends Julian down to his back! Julian jumps back up to his feet and side-steps Owen as he runs at him for another European Uppercut, sending him to the ropes. Owen leaps onto the middle rope and rebounds, hitting a misdirection Springboard European Uppercut, sending Tijerina head-over-heels with the impact! Julian rolls out to the apron-- but immediately leaps over the top with a Slingshot Somersault Senton toward the oncoming Owen Gonsalves, aiming to transition into a Hurricanrana to a roar from the crowd-- but Gonsalves drives Julian to the mat with a Powerbomb and immediately transitions into a Single Leg Crab!

Sadie San Francisco: Mmm. All those flips, and here we are. You have to know when to flip, Julie.

Kris Cruise: And Julian Tijerina picked a poor time to flip! Owen with the Crab!

Chants of ”TAP!” echo throughout Little Rock as Gonsalves leans back into the Single Leg Crab. Julian grunts, pounding a fist against the canvas but crawls toward the ropes facing the commentary desk. Sadie lowers her sunglasses a bit, winking at Tijerina-- and his face grows more red. Crying out, El Guapo uses his elbows to pull himself closer… and grabs the bottom rope with his left arm. Owen wastes no time releasing the hold, rolling to his feet, delivering stomps to Tijerina’s back to cheers from the crowd but a scolding from the referee.

Ref: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR!

Owen backs away, hands in the air, but once Julian rises to his feet, Owen motions for Julian to keep his eyes on him. Julian raises a brow but rises to his feet, circling the center of the ring opposite of Owen.

Kris Cruise: Looks like Owen Gonsalves is taking some offense to Julian’s eyes drifting over here to the commentary desk.

Owen and Julian lock up again. Owen goes for a European Uppercut, but Julian sees it coming! He spins out of harm’s way and counters into a Backslide!

ONE
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.

Owen rolls through the Backslide and up to his feet. He grabs Julian for a Wristlock and tries to pull him into a Short-Arm Lariat… but Julian ducks beneath it, countering with a Neckbreaker! Both men rise to their feet, but Julian is the quicker on this exchange, hitting the ropes and rebounding to hit the Sling Blade! Owen clutches the back of his head in pain and Julian sits upright, looking toward the turnbuckles before pushing himself to his feet. He drags Owen closer to the corner and begins to ascend himself, looking back at Gonsalves, who begins to stir… and Owen flattens him with an Imploding 450 Splash! The audience groans and Julian hook both legs!

Stephy Auger: DID YOU SEE THAT?! Admit he’s good, Sadie! Admit that El Guapo is the personification of talent!

ONE
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TWO
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THR--!

Owen throws the shoulder up and sits up, only for Julian to immediately slap on side headlock and transition into a Sleeper!

Sadie San Francisco: Don’t make things up. I never said Julie wasn’t good. He is. He’s very good. But he also makes claims he shouldn’t. He takes credit for things and ownership of things that he shouldn’t. And that bothers me.

Stephy Auger: So what is coming out here and distracting him supposed to prove?! You see the look he’s giving you right now? You see that hunger? That’s the gaze of a man that knows he should be champion!

Sadie San Francisco: ...gaze of a man that needs to focus on what he’s doing.

Julian’s eyes widen as Owen begins to wrench free of the Sleeper, pulling his head clean out of Julian’s grasp! In a panic, Julian rises to his feet… and Owen blasts him with the Soul-Stealing 7-Star Strike! The Bicycle Knee catches Tijerina right under the jaw, knocking him roughly into the ropes, hung up! Owen follows up with a Dropkick to the right arm of Tijerina, knocking him from the ropes straight to the floor! Owen skirts past the ref and drops down to the outside to follow Julian. Tijerina groggily crawls to the ring steps and begins pushing himself up. Owen charges him and nails a Dropkick that sends Tijerina over the steps, landing on his head-and-neck on the other side. Julian groans, slapping the mat in frustration as he staggers up. Owen signals for the European Uppercut to a roar from the crowd and sprints forward again… but Julian boots the top half of the steel steps, sending them flying into the knees of the oncoming Gonsalves! Owen flips over the top of the steps, landing back-first across the base of the steps as a result of the momentum!

Kris Cruise: What the hell was that?!

Boos rain down on Tijerina and the ref yells for him to bring the action back into the ring, unable to directly disqualify him for the move. Julian pics Owen up and turns, throwing him spine-first into the front of the announce table! Owen writhes on the ground and Julian stomps on his chest mercilessly before finally screaming back at the official who begins his ten-count!

Sadie San Francisco: You’re so cool.

Julian catches the sarcasm and slaps his hands on the announce table, leaning over it to get right in Sadie’s face, mouthing a simple “que?” Sadie smirks behind her sunglasses and angles her head a bit as Julian glares at her, mumbling in Spanish before he points to the belt on her shoulder, yelling, “that’s just as much mine as it is yours! I want full custody, mamacita!” Julian delivers another stomp to the seated Owen Gonsalves, hoisting him up as the ref’s count goes on behind him, reaching ”THREE!” as Julian nails a left forearm to Owen’s jaw, throwing him roughly against the side of the announce table again before walking around the table to a roar from the crowd, getting directly in Sadie’s face.

Stephy Auger: Uh-oh!

Sadie San Francisco: ...you need to back up.

Julian continues to yell in Spanish-- before he pulls at the belt on Sadie’s shoulder, prompting the champion to stand up, shaking her head at Julian. Tijerina grins at the reaction, reaching his hand up to Sadie’s headset-- but she slaps his hand away. Julian’s eyes widen and he turns to the ref, demanding a disqualification, but the ref simply continues his ten count!

”...FIVE!”


“SIX!”


“SEVEN!”

Tijerina rolls his eyes at Sadie and turns back to pick up Owen-- but Owen lands a hard European Uppercut that takes Julian off of his feet! Julian lands back-first on the announce table and Owen grabs him, throwing him into the side of the ring, shoulder-first into the apron! Julian cries out and Owen slides past him, into the ring beneath the bottom rope. He pivots, reaching through the ropes to pull Julian up at the ref’s nine count, lifting him into the ring over the top rope in a display of strength with what appears to be a Suplex… before dropping El Guapo across his shoulders and delivering a Death Valley Driver!

Kris Cruise: DVD by Owen Gonsalves!

Julian rolls onto his back, clutching his right shoulder again and Owen rises upright, eyes wide as he glares down at Tijerina. He bends down, hooks his arms and hoists him up-- nailing a Deadlift Tiger Suplex! Owen bridges into the cover while the audience counts along with the ref!

ONE
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TWO
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THRE-!

Kris Cruise: Kickout! Kickout at the last possible moment by Julian Tijerina!

A deafening mixed reaction surges throughout the Verizon Arena. Chants of ”OWEN GONSALVES!” begin to pick up as the frustrated looking Owen pulls himself up, using the ropes. He positions himself behind the groggy Tijerina as he stumbles upright-- and this time, nails a Snap Dragon Suplex! The audience erupts and again, Owen bridges! The ref makes the count!

Kris Cruise: Paroxysm!

ONE
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TWO
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THRRRE-!

Stephy Auger: Not yet! Not in Guapo Country!

Owen Gonsalves rises to his knees, head lowered as the ref holds up two fingers.

Kris Cruise: Little Rock has come unglued!

Owen staggers to his feet, leaning against the turnbuckles as Julian Tijerina laughs to himself, eyes completely glassed over. Owen shakes his head and walks over toward El Guapo, forcing him upright in a double underhook! He hoists Julian upright a bit for the Piledriver completion… but Julian lands back down on his feet and counters with a Back Body Drop! Owen quickly gets up to his feet, but Julian connects with a Super Kick! Owen goes limp, crashing to the ground and Julian falls as well… but slides out to the apron, turning and blowing a kiss toward the still-standing Sadie San Francisco… who promptly swats it away.

Stephy Auger: I’m not sure what we’re about to see here--

El Guapo steps up to the top turnbuckle and leaps off, soaring through the air to hit a picture-perfect Frog Splash… but Julian clutches at his right arm upon landing, rolling off of Owen, gasping in pain.

Kris Cruise: Every Suplex by Owen Gonsalves took that much more out of the right arm of Julian Tijerina, but now is the time to capitalize! He didn’t have enough energy to hit the Godkilla, but the Frog Splash might’ve done it anyway! Every second counts!

Julian scoots closer to Owen and finally moves toward his legs, stacking his weight on top of Gonsalves. While the ref checks the shoulders, Julian slowly moves his legs up to the bottom rope… then the middle as the official begins to count!

Kris Cruise: Come on!

ONE
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TWO
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THRE…

The ref stops counting as Sadie San Francisco, who has abandoned her headset, slams a fist on the apron and points toward Tijerina. The ref turns and immediately waves off the count, scolding Julian! Julian’s face turns red as he glares at Sadie, but he turns around, blasting the rising Owen Gonsalves with a shoot kick to the chest, roaring in anger. Owen falls back to a seated position and Julian points a finger-gun at him before shooting the ropes, rebounding for a Shining Wizard… but Owen ducks!

Stephy Auger: It’s okay! When Plan A fails…

Julian goes for a reverse roundhouse to the back of the head, but Owen leans forward, ducking that as well!

Stephy Auger: NO!

Owen pulls Julian into a wrist lock and goes for the Dark Lariat a second time, but again, Julian ducks beneath it, hitting a shoot kick to his thigh! Julian shoots the ropes and rebounds-- and Owen nails a European Uppercut! Julian immediately fires back with a left hand to the jaw, turning Gonsalves around! Groggily, Julian strides forward and picks Owen up, driving him to the mat with a Release Back Suplex on the back of his head and neck!

Kris Cruise: Back and forth, and the merciless drop by El Guapo!

Julian points his finger-gun at Sadie next before rushing the ropes closest to her. He steps up to the middle and then the top, going for a Springboard Moonsault to Gonsalves-- but Owen sticks a foot straight up, smashing into Julian’s shoulder! Julian cries out in agony, shaking as he stands! Owen pulls himself to his feet, only to take Julian right back to the mat with the jumping body-scissors, pulling him down into the Kimura!

Stephy Auger: NOOO!

The ref asks if Julian will submit, but Julian shakes his head, shouting “NO!” Shaking his head, Owen transitions into the Wrist-Bending Omoplata Armbar! He pulls at the fingers on the right hand of Tijerina, who cries out in agony!

Kris Cruise: Krukenberg!

Julian tries to crawl for the ropes as the audience screams for him to submit! He pulls at his own hair and his screams grow louder as Owen begins to pull the fingers on his hands in unusual directions! Julian kicks wildly against the mat, continuing to crawl, only about a foot away from the ropes. He raises a hand… but lowers it. He tries to pull himself forward once more, but is still over ten inches away! Covering his face for a moment, Julian grunts under his breath and taps loudly against the canvas! The bell sounds!

Stephy Auger: …

The audience explodes and Owen rolls off of Tijerina, lying exhausted on his back, ““Blockbuster Night Part I” hitting the PA system.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, advancing in the Frontier Lion’s Cup, OOOOWEN GONSALVES!

The ref raises the groggy Owen’s hand as he rises to his feet. Owen drops down, exiting the ring to greet the many fans in the front row all around ringside.

Kris Cruise: What a match! Owen Gonsalves earned every bit of that and showed why he’s one of the most exciting talents on the Vertigo roster.

The camera pans away from Gonsalves, toward Julian, who leans against the bottom rope, glaring at Sadie San Francisco, who continues to gaze at him from behind the aviators. She raises the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship right in the face of Tijerina. He glares at her, but his eyes drift toward the belt… and the audience responds with an ”OOOOOHHH…” as Sadie shoves the belt against his face, pushing his head away from her, off of the rope. Julian pulls himself to a knee, angrily, but Sadie places the belt over her shoulder and smirks, turning and walking away from ringside.

Kris Cruise: We know things are far from over between these two. Far… far from it.

With Owen Gonsalves’ music still playing in the background, Julian Tijerina continues to glare as Sadie makes her way up the ramp, title raised above her head. We fade to black on Owen Gonsalves as he departs, still slapping hands with fans.

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

December 22 and 23
Times Union Center
Albany, NY
LIVE and ONLY on PAY-PER-VIEW

[FGA Office]

Vertigo returns from the commercial break to the sight of Lowri Moss walking backstage. Dressed in her ring attire, as well as one of her ‘BSS’ t-shirts and a backwards snapback, Lowri is on her way towards the ring for the night’s main event. She is almost at the gorilla position when she spies an unwelcome sight approaching from down the hall. The Tenacious Little Bastard strides towards her, wearing that familiar crooked grin on his face, as Lowri rolls her eyes and gazes upwards, looking away from Dom.

Lowri Moss: Why am I not surprised?

She then lowers her eyes to meet his, and gives him a contemptuous glare.

Lowri Moss: What do you want, Dom?

Dom Harter: What sort of a welcome is that? After I’ve spent all night roaming these halls, looking for you, awaiting your reprise for that glorious cradle piledriver last month--

The gesticulation just drives home the point of how proud Dom is of that piledriver, despite what recently happened to his girlfriend in HKW. Lowri just shakes her head as he continues.

Dom Harter: --and nothing. No sneak attack, no barging into my locker room with a chair, you haven’t even keyed my rental car! What’s wrong, Lowri? You’re not taking the high road are you?

There is an exasperated sigh from the young Welshwoman, who looks at her foe with a scowl.

Lowri Moss: I told you that I want to get even with you, and believe me, that hasn't changed. I'm not an idiot though, Dom. The reason I haven’t tried to attack you tonight is the same reason I didn’t do anything to you two weeks ago. I know that there are however many crows around here somewhere, plus a dirty wolf, all of whom are ready to come to your aid the moment I try anything. As for me though, you took out my only ally.

Again Dom has a prideful look on his face, this time at being reminded of what he did to Neal Durden.

Lowri Moss: I want to make sure that when I get my retaliation in, it won't quickly turn into me being on the receiving end of a four-on-one or five-on-one beating, so I'm picking my spot carefully. Don’t worry though, I promise you it’ll come - sooner rather than later.

Dom Harter: I see…

He nods, looking around the backstage area around them. The crooked grin still on his face as he leans in closer, tilting his chin upwards.

Dom Harter: ...well I don’t see any of them around right now, want to take a shot right now?

It looks like Lowri is getting ready to take a swing; her fist clenched by her side, a snarl forming on her face - when suddenly she hears the sound of a wooden item falling to the floor. Lowri spins on her heel, spying Fenrys lurking behind some equipment boxes as she turns back to Dom.

Dom Harter: Oops…

Lowri Moss: I bloody knew it!

An incensed Lowri casts a quick glance in the direction of Fenrys again, before looking around for any other members of The New Murder that might be lurking nearby. She then takes a couple of steps towards Dom, pointing an accusing finger at him.

Lowri Moss: Is this a set up? Are you planning to carry out a repeat performance of what you did to Johnny Karma, only this time before the main event has even had chance to begin?

Dom Harter: And rob Molly of the chance to beat you? To deflate that ego, and wipe that smug little smirk o--oh wait, that’s me!

But his merriment is not matched by Lowri. The Welshwoman looks around again at Fenrys, who is lurking around her as Dom moves in closer.

Dom Harter: I told you two weeks ago, Lowri. The next move is yours. We’ve injured Neal. We’ve taken out The Elysian Empire. Johnny Karma is still limping from that beatdown on the last Vertigo. And now you’ve got to go out there and face the greatest ever Pride champion in singles competition…

He clasps a hand across her shoulder.

Dom Harter: Good luck. You’re going to need it.

With that, Dom and Fenrys both walk away, leaving Lowri behind to focus on her main event match…if that is even possible now.

[FGA Office]

MAIN EVENT
Molly Reid vs. Lowri Moss

"New Blood" by Zayde Wolf plays over the PA system, and once the song's intro finishes, an agitated Lowri Moss walks through the curtains, to be greeted by a cheer. She quickly heads towards the ring, slapping the hands of some of the fans that reach out to her on her way. Lowri is about halfway down the aisle when she stops, and casts a wary glance back in the direction of the stage. Not seeing anyone, or anything, she soon resumes her walk towards the ring.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for ONE fall and it is your MAIN EVENT of the evening! Introducing first, from Llanelli, Wales… LOOOOWRIIIII MOSSSS!!!

Once Lowri reaches the ringside area, she climbs the steps up onto the ring apron, steps through the ropes, then heads for one of the corners, and climbs to the second rope. There are further cheers and more applause from the fans for Lowri, who surveys the crowd for a few seconds, before removing her snapback and t-shirt, as she awaits the arrival of her opponent.

Kris Cruise: Did you see Dom Harter trying to intimidate Lowri Moss before her big main event match here tonight?

Stephy Auger: Intimidate Lowri Moss? Is that what you called it? He was simply wishing her good luck against a tough opponent like Molly Reid.

Kris Cruise: Wishing Lowri good luck!? What show were you watching!? Harter tried to goad Lowri into attacking him and even had that rabid wolf Fenrys sneak up on her. Harter is still waiting for the day that Lowri decides to strike back.

Stephy Auger: That day will never come, Cruise. If Lowri was going to try and get back at Harter, she would have done so by now. Moss may be dumb, but she’s not stupid. She said it herself. At the snap of his fingers, Harter will have his crows stomping all over her.

Kris Cruise: “His” crows? So you finally admit that Harter is the leader of The New Murder and every other member, especially Molly Reid, are nothing but his underlings.

Stephy Auger: … shut up, Cruise, and just call the match.

Kris Cruise: But the main event hasn’t even started yet.

Stephy Auger: I said SHUT UP, already!

The lights in the arena dim as The Greatest by Sia begins to play over the loudspeakers in the arena. A spotlight appears on the stage as Molly Reid walks out in her wrestling gear, bouncing around with a slight smirk on her face and her Pride Championship slung over her shoulder. She stares down to the ring before smacking her title a few times and beginning to walk down the ramp.

J.A. Aldridge: And her opponent, from Los Angeles, California… MOLLYYYYY REEEEID!!!

Once Molly gets near the ring, she sprints, dives into the ring and jumps up, holding her title up in the air indifferent to the crowd’s reaction. Molly runs to a turnbuckle and jumps onto the second rope, posing for the crowd once more, before climbing down and moving to her corner with a smirk still on her face as she takes off her hat and sunglasses, preparing to start the match.

Kris Cruise: Molly Reid seems to be in good spirits after everything she’s done. I don’t even know how she can look in the mirror after everything she did two weeks ago.

Stephy Auger: Everything she did? She didn’t do anything. She simply stood and watched as The New Murder stomped a mudhole in Johnny Karma!

Kris Cruise: That’s exactly the point! If she wants to prove that she’s a better wrestler than Karma, then she should have told her fellows Crows to leave Karma be so that he could head into Final Frontier at 100%. Instead, she looked on with glee as The New Murder had their way with our Undisputed Title. She couldn’t wipe the smile off her face!

Stephy Auger: Oh boo, hoo! Johnny Karma is a big boy! Molly Reid is wrestling all over the world. She’s getting banged up here, in Germany and in Canada. But no one is crying about how Molly has to fight at less than 100%. So why do you care about Karma’s well-being? Because he’s the champion?

Kris Cruise: Because he was the victim of gang attack, that’s why!

The bell sounds as Reid makes her way out of the corner and extends a hand to Moss. Moss immediately steps back. Reid takes another step forward and forcefully puts her hand out for Moss to shake. But Moss looks hesitant.

Stephy Auger: What is Lowri Moss waiting for? Shake Molly’s hand!

Kris Cruise: Moss is hesitant and with good reason. I wouldn’t trust Molly Reid as far as I could throw her.

Moss turns and looks to the crowd.

NO!
NO!!
NO!!!

Kris Cruise: I believe the people have spoken, Stephy!

Stephy Auger: I believe this nitwits don’t know what they’re talking about.

Moss turns back to Reid and shakes her head, refusing the handshake. Reid smirks as she steps back before circling the ring. Moss keys her eyes locked on the #1 contender as Reid slowly inches towards Moss. They motion for a lock up when Reid opts out for a kick to the midsection. The boos continue as Reid knocks Moss backwards into the corner with a flurry of punches to the face. Reid then stomps Moss down in the corner before delivering a foot choke. The ref gives Reid until the count of five to break the choke.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

Reid reluctantly breaks the choke. She reaches down, pulls up Moss and delivers a knife edge chop that echoes throughout the arena. Reid blasts Moss with another chop before sending her into the opposite corner with an irish whip. Reid runs across the ring to attack, but Moss knocks her back with a boot to the face. After shaking off the blow, Reid runs back into the corner. This time, Moss knocks her back with a back elbow to the face. Reid shakes off the blow before running back into the corner. Moss throws out another boot to the face. But this time, Reid catches her foot. She begins to drag Moss from out of the corner before taunting her. The crowd boos Reid as she continues to taunt Moss. But the boos turn to cheers when Moss counters with an enzuigiri, sending Moss flipping down to the canvas.

Kris Cruise: All that trash talk came back to bite Reid big time!

Moss makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Reid kicks out.

Moss picks up Reid and whips her into the ropes. When Reid returns, she sees Moss setting up for a back body drop. So she grabs Moss by the hair with both hands and throws her down with a mat slam. The crowd boos when the back of Moss’ head smacks the canvas. Reid puts the boots to Moss before dropping down into a mount and raining down elbows to the face.

Kris Cruise: Reid is just mauling Moss right here.

Stephy Auger: You know Harter is somewhere loving every minute of this.

Reid pulls Moss back to her feet, pulls her head down and nails her with rapid knee lifts to the face. She then delivers a stomp to the back of Moss’ knee. She then goes to follow up with an Axe Kick. But Moss reaches up and catches her foot. The crowd cheers as Moss gets back to her feet while still having a hold of Reid’s leg. Reid hops up and down on her free leg before taking several swipes at Moss. But Moss is able to move herself out of the way of Reid’s wild punches. Reid then throws out an enzuigiri of her own. But Moss ducks. She then reaches down, pulls up Reid from behind and drops her with an inverted DDT. The cheers continue as she makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Reid kicks out.

Moss picks up Reid, moves her into the corner and unleashes a series of knife edge chops that echo throughout the arena. She then brings Reid from out of the corner and whips her into the far ropes. When Reid returns, Moss sets up for another back body drop. So Reid hurdles over her before running into the ropes. When Reid returns, Moss turns around and leapfrogs over Reid. Reid continues to run into the ropes. When Reid returns, Moss throws her down with a japanese arm drag. Reid returns to her feet, only to get returned to the mat by another japanese arm drag. When Reid gets back to her feet and turns around, Moss throws out a roundhouse kick. But she misses as Reid drops down to her back and rolls to the outside. The crowd erupts with boos as Reid takes a timeout on the outside.

Kris Cruise: Moss has sent Reid retreating to the floor!

Stephy Auger: Don’t get your hopes up, Cruise. It’s still early! Reid has all the time in the world to turn this match back around in her favor.

The boos continue while Reid takes her sweet time walking around the ring. Moss has had enough of Reid’s stalling and decides to roll to the outside. The crowd cheers as she gives Reid chase around the ring. After lapping the ring, Reid slides back in. As soon as Moss rolls back inside, the crowd boos when she’s met with stomps to the body. Reid delivers an elbow drop… then another… and another. The #1 contender then drags Moss away from the ropes before making the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Moss kicks out.

Reid picks up Moss and nails her with a knife edge chop. She then takes Moss and whips her into the ropes. When Moss returns, the crowd cheers when she knocks Reid down with a crossbody.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Reid kicks out.

Moss picks up Reid and whips her into the corner. The Welshwoman runs across the ring to attack. But Reid knocks her back with a back elbow. While Moss is stunned, Reid scales to the top turnbuckle, flips off and knocks her down with a corkscrew moonsault. The boos continue as she makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Moss gets her shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Molly Reid connects with the high risk corkscrew moonsault. But it only gets a count of two.

Stephy Auger: Molly Reid just hit a beautiful corkscrew moonsault and these idiots have the nerve to boo her? What a bunch of ungrateful inbred hicks!

Reid picks up Moss, brings her towards the center of the ring and brings her down with a russian legsweep. She returns to her feet before heading into the ropes. When reid returns, the crowd boos when she connects with a rolling thunder into a somersault senton. Reid returns to her feet before following up with a standing moonsault. She hooks the leg.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Moss gets her shoulder up.

Reid picks up Moss, wrenches her arm and follows up with a hook kick, knocking Moss back into the ropes. While Moss tries to shake out the cobwebs, Reid turns to run into the ropes. When reid returns, she sets up for a running clothesline. But Moss ducks and dumps Reid over the top rope and to the floor with a back body drop. The crowd cheers as Reid arches her back in pain. Reid continues to howl in pain while holding her lower back.

Stephy Auger: Reid just landed on her back after getting RECKLESSLY thrown to the floor by Lowri Moss… and these people are cheering. Animals! They’re all a bunch of animals!

Kris Cruise: The only animals around here are The New Murder! They get off on attacking people. Did you not see Harter? He was so proud of himself when he recalled how they took out Neal Durden, The Elysian Empire and Johnny Karma!

Stephy Auger: … no, I must have missed that part of the show.

Kris Cruise: Of course you did!


Reid begins to stir on the outside while Moss scales to the top turnbuckle. The crowd stand up in anticipation of what’s about to happen next. Once Reid returns to her feet and turns around, Moss turns around on the top turnbuckle, flips back and knocks Reid down! The crowd explodes with cheers!

Kris Cruise: Moss just took out Reid with that moonsault to the outside! Unbelievable!

While both men lay sprawled out on the floor, the crowd rally’s behind Moss.

Crowd: LOWRI! LOWRI!! LOWRI!!! LOWRI!!!!

The crowd continues their raucous support of Moss until there’s a sharp shift in reaction. Things turn negative as “The Tenacious Little Bastard” makes his way out onto the stage. The crowd erupts with boos at the sight of Dom Harter.

Kris Cruise: There’s no reason for Dom Harter to be out here!

Stephy Auger: Why do you always assume that something bad happens whenever Harter is around?

Kris Cruise: Because usually something bad happens when Harter is around!

Harter folds his arms as he remains on the ramp. Down on the floor, Moss is slowly picking herself up. She then picks up Reid, heads over and rolls her back into the ring. Moss then rolls herself back into make the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Reid gets her shoulder up.

Moss picks up Reid and whips her into the ropes. When Reid returns, the crowd cheer shwen Moss knocks her down with a dropsault. She makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Reid gets her shoulder up.

Moss picks up Reid and cracks her with a headbutt, sending her stumbling backwards into the ropes. Moss heads over, delivers a stinging knife edge chop and whips Reid into the far ropes. Instead of bouncing back, Reid uses the momentum to connect with a handspring pelé kick, knocking Moss down. The boos continue as Reid picks up Moss and sends her into the corner with an irish whip. Reid runs across the ring before connecting with a handspring back elbow. Reid turns around, takes Moss and sits her up on the top turnbuckles. After climbing up onto the top ropes, Reid hops onto Moss’ shoulders before bringing her down with an avalanche hurricanrana. The boos continue as she crawls over and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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T-NO!

Moss gets her shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: It’s not over, Stephy! There’s still some fight left in Lowri Moss!

Stephy Auger: Not for long…

Reid picks up Moss and whips her into the ropes. When Moss returns, Reid knocks her down to a knee after a low-angle dropkick to the leg. After Reid returns to her feet, she nails Mos with a flurry of shoot kicks to the chest before knocking her down with an Axe kick. The boos continue as she drops down and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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TH-NO!

The crowd cheers when Moss gets her shoulder up. Reid looks over and narrows her eyes at the ref.

Reid picks up Moss and moves her into the corner before unleashing a flurry of punches, kicks, knees and elbows. She then takes Moss and whips her into the opposite corner. Reid runs across the ring and throws out a flying knee. But Moss moves out of the way, causing Reid to crash into the turnbuckles. As Reid stumbles back, Moss grabs her from behind to set up for a German Suplex. But Moss lets go… only to turn Moss around and double her over with a kick to the midsection. She then lifts Reid upside down and plants her with a piledriver. Harter’s eyes widen with anger upon seeing Moss puts out a cradle piledriver. The cheers continue as she turns over and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Ried gets her shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Harter too exception to that piledriver!

Stephy Auger: As he should! He’s been making piledrivers sexy again and here comes Moss to ugly it all up!

Moss picks up Reid and goes for an irish whip. But Reid reverses, sending her into the ropes. When Moss returns, Reid sets up for a back body drop. So Moss strops, grabs Reid, hooks her leg and delivers a bridging fisherman suplex.

ONE!
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TWO!
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TH-NO!

Reid gets her shoulder up.

As Moss goes to pick up reid, Reid shoves her back to create some distance between the two. When Moss comes back, Reid throws out a kick to the knee. But Moss catches her foot before bringing her down with a dragonscrew. While Reid lays on the mat, Moss steps out onto the apron before climbing up to the top turnbuckle. Once Reid gets back to her feet and turns around, the crowd cheers as Moss leaps off and knocks her down with a diving crossbody! But Reid is able to roll through it!

ONE!
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TWO!
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TH-NO!

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

Reid picks up Moss and whips her into the ropes. When Moss returns, Reid throws out a Superman Punch. But Moss ducks, grabs Reid from behind and goes for a German Suplex. But Reid counters with a back elbow to the face. After performing a standing switch, Reid grabs Moss, runs and tosses her through the ropes and onto the apron. She then reaches over the top rope to pick up Moss. But Moss is quickly to drop her across the top rope with a hangman. While Reid stumbles back, Moss climbs back up onto the apron, climbs up to the top turnbuckle, leaps off and knocks her down with a diving crossbody.

ONE!
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TWO!
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TH-NO!

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

Moss picks up Reid and whips her into the ropes. When Reid returns, the crowd boos when she knocks Moss down with a leg lariat. She then steps out onto the apron and scales to the top turnbuckle. Once Moss stands up and turns around, Reid stands up on the top turnbuckle, leaps off and knocks her down with a flying Superman Punch. The boos continue as she crawls over and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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TH-NO!

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

Reid picks up Moss and nails her with a flurry of elbows to the face. She then turns, runs towards the ropes and goes for a springboard flying chuck. But Moss counters with a spinning heel kick. She then picks up Reid and goes for an irish whip. But Reid reverses, sending her into the ropes. When Moss returns, Reid throws out a clothesline. But Moss ducks, floats over across Reid’s back and spikes her with a crucifix driver. The cheers continue as Moss picks up Reid and moves her into the corner. After climbing up onto the middle ropes, Moss grabs Reid and plants her with a Tornado DDT. While Reid lays sprawled out on the apron, Moss gets up in the corner and sets up for the Breuddwydion Melus (Superkick). As Reid begins to stir on the canvas, Moss starts to wave her up. The waves get faster the closer Reid gets to her feet. The fans in the crowd begin to stand up in anticipation for the superkick. Once Reid gets to her feet and turns around, Moss motions to head out of the corner and deliver the superkick when she’s tripped up by Harter. The crowd erupts with boos.

Kris Cruise: Oh come on!

Stephy Auger: What happened, Cruise!?

Moss immediately turns around and kicks the bottom rope, which causes Harter to take a few steps back. Moss continues to yell at Harter until Reid nails her in the back of the head with the Molly Kick (superkick). Moss collapses to the canvas before Reid drops down and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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THREE!

The crowd erupts with boos when “The Greatest” blares throughout the arena.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, MOLLY REID!

The boos continue while Reid gets his arm raised in victory.

Kris Cruise: What a load of garbage! Lowri Moss had this match won!

Stephy Auger: You don’t know that.

Kris Cruise: What do you mean!? She had this match all but won!

Stephy Auger: “All but won” doesn’t guarantee victory, Cruise.

Kris Cruise: Molly Reid was seconds away from getting knocked out with a superkick!

Stephy Auger: You don’t know that. Molly Reid could have kicked out a two. Or she could have ducked.

Kris Cruise: You can spin this all you want! But the fact of the matter is that Dom Harter has put the screws to Lowri Moss while Molly Reid benefitted from Harter’s interference!

Stephy Auger: That sounds like a bunch of whining to me. I sure hope that Lowri Moss can handle this loss much better than you.

Harter gets in the ring and taunts Moss as he stands over her. He then grabs Reid by the wrist and raises her arm. The crowd erupts with boos as The New Murders end another show standing tall...