Vertigo (05.12.18)

[FGA Office]

[FGA Office]

¡Uno!
¡Dos!
¡Tres!
¡Catorce!


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


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



Legacy Arena at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex
Birmingham, AL

Before the scene even fades in, the sound of Birmingham, Alabama’s thunderous mixed reaction proves deafening. We fade in from black, revealing Vertigo’s General Manager, Brandon Macdonald, already standing in the center of the ring, grinning ear to ear. He performs a full-turn, looking at each side of the Legacy Arena before throwing his hands up, as if patiently waiting for the fans to say something specific.

Brandon Macdonald: BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA… how are we feeling tonight? Hm?

The audience seems to begrudgingly cheer, clearly excited for the action lined up. GM Macdonald chuckles to himself, eyes beaming behind his sunglasses.

Brandon Macdonald: Good, good. We’ve got a hell of a show lined up for you guys tonight including a headline match featuring the Grappler that successfully defended her Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship at Only the Strong Survive, Lowri Moss, going one on one with Vertigo’s very own, very new... Marlon Cure. Because I make moves on my show.

Macdonald winks to the camera-- or directly to Flashpoint’s Hadley Herrera-- but raises a hand and takes a step back, continuing.

Brandon Macdonald: But that’s not it. Of course that’s not it. For those of you that SAW Only the Strong Survive, you know that I have done everything in my power to acquire only the best talent for FGA Vertigo. You know that I went above and beyond the call of duty-- something that Hadley Herrera was never going to do for you guys-- and procured a living legend in his prime with Ricky Valero. She was just gonna let him walk! She was just g…

“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

Macdonald, perhaps misinterpreting the boos, nods vigorously.

Brandon Macdonald: I know! “Pretty” Ricky Valero, at the physical and mental peak of his career, and Hadley Herrera couldn’t find a spot for him on her roster. Are you kidding? It was outrageous. But that’s not even the half of it. That poser actually NEGLECTED our beloved Chief… was so focused on pleasing the Chandler Scotts and Noelle Smiths of the world that she didn’t even realize his contract expired a day before he won the Undisputed Championship! THAT is just one of the many ways that Herrera takes her Grapplers for granted, okay? So to make sure that something like this doesn’t ever happen again-- I had no choice. I had to force my hand.

Macdonald takes a deep breath before smiling at the very thought of his next announcement.

Brandon Macdonald: I spoke with the Board. And it wasn’t cheap… it wasn’t easy… but effective immediately, Evan Envi-- and his Undisputed Championship-- are EXCLUSIVE properties of the Vertigo brand. Yessir…

He allows the crowd to soak this in, clearly pleased with himself. The audience, for their part, have a loud, mixed reaction toward the whole situation.

Kris Cruise: That’s… that’s huge, but how is he allowed to do that?

Stephy Auger: Who knows?! That’s it! We win the war! Hahaha!

Kris Cruise: Hmm.

Brandon Macdonald: But that's not all! Why stop there, right? For the past several months, FGA has slowly but surely stacked its tag team division! But anyone with a pair of working eyes would tell you that the premier tag team action is on Vertigo, the A-Show here in FGA! Yet where is Pendragon's title shot? What about the Reapers in Pride, who, if it weren't for the interference fo Jaromir Ocampo, would STILL be UN-DE-FEATED to this very day! What about the SHOOTCAMP? Where is there Tag Team Title shot? Nowhere to be found! And you want to know why? Because Flashpoint has been keeping the World Tag Team Titles hostage! Yes, HOSTAGE! For months, all of our tag teams - Shootcamp, Pendragon, RIP, Maritza & Pedro, Firing Squad, and others - have had to sit on the sidelines twiddling their thumbs while The Chaotics and Smart Style bore us all to tears with their melodrama, while the PolyWhatever Their Names Are were stuck being the third wheel. Well I say enough is enough! I sincerely hope that The Chaotics and Smart Style have fun with their little three team division because the REAL tag team division will be appearing on Vertigo and only on Vertigo! Starting on the very next episode of Brandon Macdonald's Vertigo, we will be hosting the first round of a championship tournament. The UNITED STATES TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP! These US Tag Team Titles will be exclusive to Vertigo and they will be determined on Episode 56 of Vertigo when two of our top teams meet in the finals!

Kris Cruise: Vertigo's getting it's own set of brand exclusive Tag Team Titles? Macdonald can't do that!

Stephy Auger: He's the General Manager! He can do whatever he wants! Quit whining and show some appreciation for our GM! At least he actually cares about us, unlike Hadley Herrera, who can barely be bothered to show up half the time!

Brandon Macdonald: Now, with that announcement out of the way, let me present to you the main event! The brains behind Camp Envi! Our Vegan Visionary! FGA's Guiding Light! The TRUE DNA of FGA! The wind beneath our wings! Your NEEEEEEEEEEW FGA Undisputed Champion! Ladies and gentlemen, get up on your feet and clap your hands for the CHIEF, eeeeeeeeeeEEEEEVAAAAAAN EEEENNNNNNNNNVIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII!!!

The audience responds with a deafening chorus of boos in unison.

“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

A marching band’s rendition of “Can You Feel It?” begins to play throughout the Legacy Arena.

Kris Cruise: What in the…

Stephy Auger: Can you feel it, Cruise?! The Chief is here!

Alabama’s own Homewood High School marching band leads the charge, accurately playing their cover of Evan Envi’s theme music. At the front of the parade is a giant purple dragon, breathing flames into the air to the delight of the easily-excitable in attendance. The marching band are dressed in themes of purple-and-gold, parading down the stage.

Kris Cruise: This is--

Stephy Auger: ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE!

A follows behind the two dozen band members, adorned with what appear to be giant gems, stones, and emeralds. Sitting atop the giant float which is shaped like a conjoined pair of “G”s, are Evan Envi and Ricky Valero. Valero applauds loudly, a broad grin on his face while Envi raises the trademark double V’s in the air before motioning for the crowd to wait one second… reaching down and raising the FGA Undisputed Title high above his head with a laugh that borders on cackle territory.

Stephy Auger: THERE IT IS!

Kris Cruise: I see it…

Stephy Auger: Eleven years! It took Evan Envi over eleven years to finally win World Championship gold and he did it at Only the Strong Survive, Cruise! Despite what everyone said-- despite what everyone wanted-- he did it all by himself! And justice prevailed later in the night when Ricky Valero was reinstated courtesy of our great boss, Brandon Macdonald! Vertigo just acquired two of the most important names in FGA today! In wrestling today! They’re absolute treasures, Cruise! National treasures!

Kris Cruise: Okay, okay…

The float hits the brakes in front of the ring while a pair of purple-and-gold-clad fire-breathers make their way down the ramp next, earning another conflicted response from the crowd. Behind them are two purple-and-gold-leotard-clad women, each wearing massively oversized heads-- one of them painted to look like Ricky Valero and the other, of course, in the style of the FGA Undisputed Champion, Evan Envi!

Kris Cruise: Alright, this is getting out of hand.

Stephy Auger: You’ve never made an entrance in your life, Cruise! You just show up places. And it’s always unfortunate.

While confetti falls from the rafters, Envi and Valero both leap onto the apron. Ricky climbs the turnbuckles, raising his arms into the air, which to his credit is emulated by a few in the audience. Envi ascends the ropes behind him, raising the FGA Undisputed Title in the air with one hand and the signature “V” with his other, grinning into the audience. The marching band rounds the ring, leading the parade out the same way they came while Brandon Macdonald loudly applauds the whole thing with a grin. Evan Envi catches a microphone as it’s tossed to him and turns, smiling out into the audience.

Evan Envi: Don’t worry-- don’t worry. The parade’s going on all night, but we are in Birmingham, sooo… that’s all you guys get. Not gonna waste these people talents’ in front of you dudes.

“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

Ricky Valero hops down from the turnbuckles and instinctively cover’s Envi’s ears. The Chief looks disgusted by the disrespect of the fans in attendance, raising the mic again, clicking his tongue.

Evan Envi: You guys don’t make it any easier on yourselves! You know, you come out here and act like children, so people like me, people like Ricky are forced to make the tough decisions. There are PLENTY of people on the streets of Birmingham that are pumped up-- HYPED-- ready to dance in the streets with the your braaaand new FGA Undisputed Champion, booooyyyyyyy. Zoom in on this!

The boos only intensify as Envi beckons the camera guy near. Ricky stoops down, breathing on the golden face of the title on Envi’s shoulder, using the cuff of his sleeve to wipe it, “shining” it up a bit. Envi smirks, looking into the masses.

Evan Envi: So Ricky and I are gonna take this parade back out to the streets where it’s gonna get the respect it deserves-- where WE will get the respect we deserve. We’re gonna parade through the streets of Birmingham, Alabama like it’s a real city or something. And then…

Envi raises a finger, motioning for the crowd to simmer down as they begin hurling insults toward the trio in the ring. Envi shakes his head, speaking over them.

Evan Envi: And then I’m gonna march back out here and handle my business like a real champion handles his business. I’m-- wow. C’mon.

Evan pauses, shaking his head in disappointment, lowering his mic a few inches as he endures the deafening chants of “YOU SUCK!” bellowing from the crowd.

Stephy Auger: The nerve of these people!

Evan Envi: ANYWAY. I’m gonna come out here and square up with Kol, gonna send the whole internet into a frenzy, gonna have the fanboys trippin over themselves to label this a match of the year candidate-- and ladies and nerds, one five-star classic later, all of these little doubts and whispers about how Envi isn’t a real champ… about how Envi doesn’t deserve to be a top dude-- that’s done. All that shuts up. Because you’re not gonna look me in the eye after I beat Johnny Karma and then Kol in back-to-back showings and tell me I’m not legit. And I’m gonna do all of that with my best friend in my corner.

The boos grow louder as Envi looks over his shoulder at Valero, who is standing beside him beaming from ear to ear like only a proud friend could as he takes hold of the microphone. Valero is conflicted, however, while the fans continue to do their best to rain on their parade.

Ricky Valero: Wow...just, wow. What a bunch of miserable spoiled brats you all are! You’re in the presence of the FGA Undisputed Champion, people. Show some respect!

Unfortunately, Valero’s attempts to sway the crowd backfire, instead enticing the fans’ displeasure to—somehow—grow in volume. He takes a step back for a moment, tongue in cheek and his eyes rolling as he allows everyone to simmer down before he can continue speaking again. He chuckles.

Ricky Valero: So can we talk about how great GM Brandon Macdonald is for a second?!

Once again, the jeers echo throughout the arena. This time, Valero doesn’t lose a step, motioning toward Macdonald with a huge grin on his face while Envi applauds loudly.

Ricky Valero: Here is a man, a brilliant man, who had the good sense and business acumen to find a way to get the two best talents in all of FGA on his roster and he acted on it. He made his moves, he played his cards right, and he got everything he could ever want for Vertigo while Hadley Herrera and Flashpoint have never looked more like the B-Team than they do right now. Seriously folks, you are all blessed to have myself and YOUR FGA UNDISPUTED CHAMPION standing in front of you right now, and you owe it all to our beloved general manager, so please, give this man a round of applause!

Evan Envi: Yes! God yes!

Valero and Envi break out into a roaring standing ovation for Macdonald that humbles the Vertigo GM. But they’re disappointed to be met with boos from this Birmingham crowd again.

Ricky Valero: Shame on you...Shame on all of you...

A devilish grin creeps across Valero’s face.

Ricky Valero: ...For thinking that you could ever possibly ruin this celebration!

Valero lets out a loud “WOO!” as he, Envi, and Macdonald all high five each other.

Ricky Valero: My best friend Evan is the FGA UNDISPUTED CHAMPION and there’s nothing any of you can say or do about it!

The jeers intensify, but Valero’s got the microphone.

Ricky Valero: Because all of you fail to recognize true greatness when it’s standing right here in front of you. You can boo, you can yell, you can slide in my DMs and threaten my family all you want, but your voices are worthless. Your lives are meaningless. Not a single one of you will ever accomplish even half of what myself and Evan have accomplished in our lives. The closest you will ever get to an accolade like the FGA Undisputed Championship is when you go up to the merch table after you spend $325 on every cheese-covered delicacy your doctor told you not to eat anymore and you buy one of those pathetic, flimsy little plush replica championship belts meant for children. Because just like all of you, Hadley Herrera and what’s left of her pathetic little show are nothing short of...unimpressive.

Cue that trademark Valero smirk.

Ricky Valero: Hadley Herrera was incapable of realizing what she had with myself and Evan on the Flashpoint roster. She thought she had the world by the balls. She thought she had the power...But she could not be more wrong. Boy, she was so tragically mistaken. Flashpoint didn’t deserve Evan Envi and Ricky Valero and yet we gave Hadley Herrera ample opportunity to take advantage of us being there knowing B-Mizzle would do anything to have us here on Vertigo, but she didn’t understand how to properly reward those who earned their keep each and every night. In the ring. On the mic. Evan and myself, we gave everything to Flashpoint, and she was too damn stubborn to get over her obsession with Johnny Karma, with Noelle Smith, with Chandler freaking Scott…

Evan Envi: Ugh.

Valero scoffs while Envi-- though out of frame-- can clearly be heard trying to “contain” his gagging.

Ricky Valero: Hadley Herrera didn’t understand how to identify the real superstars on her show. She simply didn’t understand what was truly best for business. But you know who does understand? You know who sees in us what we’ve been telling all of you stupid idiots about ourselves for months?

He points to Macdonald.

Ricky Valero: OUR general manager.

Valero grins wide and nods his head in approval.

Ricky Valero: Our general manager sees value in us. Our general manager knows that we can be THE guy. Our general manager isn’t complacent with handing opportunities to the same so-called stars like the ones Hadley Herrera inherited when she took the reins over on Flashpoint last year. The same so-called stars who have been burying real talent for years while skating by on a reputation they stopped living up to a LONG time ago. You all know exactly who I’m talking about and I cannot express how thankful and how fortunate myself and Evan are to finally have a boss...who gets it. And make no mistake about it, he will—and all of you undeservedly will—be greatly rewarded for the chance he’s taking on us. Now that Evan and myself are here on the green brand, Vertigo is the must-watch show, not just in FGA, but in the world today! I can guarantee that Evan Envi is going to be the best damn Undisputed Champion any of you have ever seen, and I can guarantee that every time one of us steps foot inside this ring, each and every one of you are going to be treated to an instant classic, whether on the mat or on the mic, that you will never forget, that you will be telling your kids and your grandkids about and...well, let’s be real here, all of you decrepit freaks will be lucky to make it past 50...but you get the picture.

Valero’s lips curl and his nostrils flare as he mockingly clutches at his throat, gagging. Alarmed, Envi checks on his buddy, who points out an overweight male in his mid-to-late 50s in the front row wearing a mustard-stained Fujiko Mine t-shirt and scarfing down a deluxe cheeseburger. As the boos pour down again, they both burst into laughter.

Ricky Valero: The Good Guys are here on Vertigo and the dawn of a new era, a great era here in FGA has begun. Join in on the celebration or wallow in your own self pity, cause we ain’t going anywhere!

Stephy Auger: YESSSS!

Stephy Auger can be heard applauding loudly from behind the commentary desk while Kris Cruise audibly sighs. Back in the ring, GM Macdonald looks pleased nearly to tears while Evan Envi regains composure from his laughing fit. The Undisputed Champion’s expression grows serious and he sighs, raising the microphone to his lips… but instead deciding to simply raise the Undisputed Championship high in the air once again.

“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

Evan Envi: Look, look-- you guys can talk about me however you want, but when my best friend Ricky Valero is out here trying to have some dialogue with you people, the absolute least you could do is shut the heck up and pay attention. I mean, I don’t know what kinda rules y’all abide by down here in BURRRRMINNNHAAAM ALEEEEBAMMMMA, but where we’re from, in the real world, you RESPECT your superiors. You respect the people that put in that work to reach the top-- people that are so clearly above you in the hopes that one day good karma catches up with you and puts you in a position where you can luck into a percentage-- a FRACTION of what we have. That’s how the real world works. You can’t just scream over reality. You can’t just boo reality.

“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

Kris Cruise: They can certainly try though.

Stephy Auger: Pathetic.

Envi shakes his head, but that all-too familiar smirk crosses his face again. He waves the crowd off dismissively and turns to Ricky, placing a hand on his shoulder.

Evan Envi: You know, this is kind of… this is kind of my fault in a way, Richard. I apologize for them. I was cheering Jimmy Page along all these months, laughing and snorting like an idiot whenever he would come out here and put the boots to Dom Harter and the New Murder, but…

The audience pops at the mention of the 2018 Gold Rush Rumble winner, prompting a small pause from the Chief before he continues speaking to Valero.

Evan Envi: ...but what does that make me, y’know? It makes me an enabler-- a hard thing for me to admit as your beloved FGA Undisputed Champion. But I mean, if I’m on Twitter praising Jimmy for acting like a complete maroon then these people, who mimic everything they see, are gonna think it’s okay too. NATURALLY. But it’s not. I was wrong! I mean, he comes out here and spits a wad of gum on some poor kid every other week, and these people accept it now! They’re so dead inside that they don’t even try to deflect it! Nothing! They just take it! It’s horrible! And now it’s too late! Now they’re thirsty for these crude, crass antiheroes like Jimmy Page and it’s all my fault! There’s no room left in their hearts for honest-to-God Good Guys. Ricky, I’m sorry.

The portion of the audience that hasn’t devolved into laughter rains boos down on the pair.

Ricky Valero: It’s okay! It’s okay. Bring it in.

The two embrace in the center of the ring to another deafening chorus of boos-- before “Murdered Out” by Kim Gordon blasts through the arena. The crowd switches from boos to cheers as Page steps out from the back with a microphone in hand. He paces back and forth on the stage, looking around the arena. Page then makes his way to the ring, and enters it, unafraid of the consequences that may follow. The fans continue to give praise to the Gold Rush Rumble winner. He smirks a bit, until his eyes float over towards Ricky and the new champion Evan Envi.

Jimmy Page: Welp…

Page looks at the two men, stuffing his right hand in his jean pocket with a nonchalant glare.

Jimmy Page: Congratulations I guess…

Page shrugs his shoulders while the camera quickly catches Envi mouthing a “thank you”, patting himself on the back.

Jimmy Page: Know what Envi, I’m not even surprised at this point of how people form bonds in this business. If it isn’t Dom Harter, it’s Tony Carmine, and if it isn’t Tony Carmine, it’s always some arrogant big mouth with a stooge in tow. I guess you’re the latter at this moment. See, I couldn’t put my finger on why both brands were hesitant on taking you. I thought to myself, “Gee, he can’t be that bad. Someone’s gonna give him a chance, and by God whoever signs him is gonna get a talented guy.”

Page says this as he walks back and forth, but then stops, glaring at Envi.

Jimmy Page: Now I see why they made you ride the pine for so long. Say what you want about Flashpoint, say what you will about the general manager you had over there; But at least they had the fortitude to even sign your conniving ass. I mean, believe me I’ve done some things in my past. Stuff that would make you both look like walking afterschool specials. I took what I wanted, I broke down walls and I KICKED down DOORS! Ask anyone in that locker room and they’ll tell you that I mean what I say and do! So when I say that Evan Envi and Ricky Valero are two of the biggest scumbags in FGA, I MEAN IT!

The fans cheer as Page stares a hole through the three parties.

Evan Envi: Wow.

Ricky Valero: Wow.

Jimmy Page: This little get together is nothing more than an attempt to stroke your ego. And to be quite honest to have the guy who’s standing next to you as if everything is normal is a damn shame. Yeah, yeah hi Macdonald, I glad you’re not too busy screwing with people’s lives. Last time we spoke I was in a handicap match against members of The Murder that you approved. I’m glad whatever little plot you had backfired in the end. It must’ve sucked to not have a World Championship on Vertigo. I guess you got desperate and threw all your eggs in these two’s basket. It’s just too bad somebody like me is going to end up crushing it.

Page mouths, “Sorry ‘bout that.” towards Brandon. The crowd gets even more behind Page as he continues, though Envi and Ricky wear visible frowns, growing agitated.

Jimmy Page: So, let it be known, you’re going to get a REAL champ from somebody who has represented this brand since day one! You’re going to get someone who isn’t a traitor, who isn’t a coward, and who isn’t an ass kissing yes man!!! You’re looking at your new Undisputed World Champion, RIGHT...HERE!

“PAGE! PAGE! PAGE! PAGE!”

Page nods his head, glancing throughout the crowd.

Jimmy Page: I mean what I say and do!! So when I say I’m gonna take that title from you Envi, I damn well MEAN IT! So--

Objections from Envi and Valero can be heard from the ring. Envi looks to speak again, shaking his head. He looks to open his mouth, until once again Envi and Valero’s parade is rained on by a very familiar voice that echoes through the arena, as we see Johnny Karma standing in the crowd with a mic in his hand and the expression of somebody who is more than fed up with listening to Envi spending what feels like the past few hours congratulating himself

Johnny Karma: First of all, Evan, it would be rude of me to not congratulate you for everything you have done for the Flashpoint brand...

Evan Envi: I mean. ABOUT TIME YOU SPOKE LIKE YOU HAD SOME FRIGGIN SENSE. But where the heck is security? How--

...but then Karma holds up a hand to indicate that he hasn’t finished.

Johnny Karma: Now if you’d waited a second before you could congratulate yourself for the...I lost count a long time ago, but if you’d waited just a little bit longer I would have told you this: It would be rude of me to not congratulate you for everything you have done for the Flashpoint brand, because I can guarantee that twenty minutes of you standing in the ring as you almost literally nechvenin in front of everybody has seen people reach for the remote and stop watching as they’d rather watch the show that the pair of you won’t be on.

Earning a pop from Birmingham, Karma aims a look in the direction of Envi and Valero...but then his attention switches to Brandon Macdonald

Johnny Karma: Just a reminder for you, Brandon: the last time I had a member of the Vertigo roster facing me with the title on the line, I sent them packing.  I’m sure you remember that, and I’m sure that’s been eating you up ever since.  After all, you’re the one standing in the ring saying you’re creating a new set of tag titles, with blackjack, and hookers, which doesn’t in any way have anything to do with the fact you could’ve signed Ashlyn De Luca or Smart Style at any point in the last few months and they turned you down.  And as for you claiming the Undisputed Championship and that barimer standing in the ring are now the sole property of Vertigo, for the people in the crowd and those few people who haven’t switched off yet, I’ve got a couple of words you seem to have forgotten…

Karma looks from Macdonald to Envi, then to the title on Envi’s shoulder, then back to Envi once more as he takes a couple of steps forward so he's leaning over the crowd barrier

Johnny Karma: Rematch Clause, bubbe.

The crowd let out a loud cheer at Karma’s crushingly unsubtle reminder that Envi and Macdonald aren’t as safe as they’d like to think, and as he stands in the crowd he smirks in Envi’s direction knowing full well that he’s got a couple of armfuls of receipts waiting for him that he cannot run and hide from. Evan Envi looks at Johnny Karma as if he’s seen a ghost once the realization sets in. Evan looks from Karma, to Page, to Macdonald, but before he can say anything, Ricky whispers something into the Chief’s ear.

Evan Envi: We’re done here.

Envi drops his microphone and hurriedly exits the ring along with Ricky Valero. Macdonald looks a bit uncomfortable standing in the ring with Jimmy Page, shooting an obviously-fake smile to the Gold Rush Rumble winner before he also steps out to the apron and hops down to the floor. “Murdered Out” plays over the PA as Page remains standing in the ring, shooting a look out of the corner of his eye toward Karma, who meets his gaze briefly before the cameras cut back to the departing Good Guys, Macdonald jogging to follow after them. Finally, we swing over to the commentary desk.

Kris Cruise: Well, this is interesting. Jimmy Page is the winner of the Gold Rush Rumble. Jimmy Page wants to be the champion he feels Evan Envi can’t be. But Johnny Karma is still owed a rematch and he still has a lot of unfinished business with the so-called “Good Guys.”

Karma stares daggers at Envi from the stands before security slowly approaches him. Karma defensively puts his hands up before being escorted away...

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

We are backstage where Yan Yungsung is ready for his match, he walks this way at the entrance of the gorilla position but before he enters the entrance, he's intercepted by interviewer Jessie Pederson, who wants his thoughts about the upcoming fight against Fenrys for this debut match on Vertigo.

Jessie Pederson: Excuse me, mister Yan. Do you have a moment?

Yan stops walking and looks at the eyes of the Interviewer.

Yan Yungsung: Hmm, sure.

Jessie Pederson: I just want to have some thoughts on Fenrys before you begin your match.

Yan Yungsung: Well not much is known for him except for the fact, that he's mysterious and he's chosen by some god named Loki. Ya know the god that is crushed by Hulk In the Avenger movie?

Jessie Pederson: Loki is an actual god, In the Nordic Mythology.

Yan Yungsung: Whatever it's still the same for me and also he's inferior to the mightiest brother that is Thor. Anyway back to suggest, Fenrys is someone that poses no threat to me. He will know, I'm the fiercest warrior myself. I'm supposed to represent a fricking Dragon, one of the coolest creatures on earth. I'm the kind of guy who knows any way to hurt an enemy. I can go Ip Man on his sorry ass with the Win Chun, I can punch my way to the victory with the Jeet Kune Do and I can even be predictable with many ways of the Kung fu. I can even show him how awesome I am with a frickin nunchuck.

Jessie Pederson: Well unfortunately for you Mister Yungsung, this is an opening match with a DQ rule, so you won't be able to impress the crowd with a nunchuck.

Yan chuckles.

Yan Yungsung: Aah! It doesn't matter, my fist can be my weapons too and I proved they can be lethal when I'm done pummeling this masked freak.

Jessie Pederson: Fenrys is also known to be ruthless with his strong style. It is something that can match the hard-hitting moves that you brag about.

Yan Yungsung: You're just not used for me yet because I'm new. Once I'll be a regular, you will stop doubting my skills of combat.

He is about to leaves but he's still interrupted by Jessie.

Jessie Pederson: Wait...

Yan Yungsung: What? I'm kinda in a hurry now. FGA needs to see a Dragon that will obliterate this so-called warrior in 60 seconds, so if you don't mind, I have to move.

Jessie Pederson: Is there anything else you want to add?

Yan Yungsung: I think that I said enough, now it is time that I'm moving to the ring. I need to dispose of Fenrys in my debut match.

Yan turns this attention to the gorilla position and goes inside to be ready for his debut match on Vertigo.

[FGA Office]

The scene transitions to Spencer Burke, who is standing by backstage.

Spencer Burke: I am standing by with one of the latest acquisitions of FGA, set to make his debut tonight on Vertigo! From Montreal, Quebec Canada I present you Ryan Wilson!

Ryan Wilson: Thank you! Merci, it is a pleasure to be here tonight. But before we go any further I need two things from you my friend.

Spencer Burke: Of course! What is it?

Ryan Wilson: First, I would like to get my hand on that lovely mic you are holding.

Smiling, Burke gladly hands him the mic, which The Jerk with a Mouth takes with his right hand.

Ryan Wilson: Thank you very much! Now, I'd like you to buzz off.

Spencer Burke: Err, excuse me?

Ryan Wilson: Yes, I would like to do my first promo on my own. You are dismissed, you have done an amazing job thank you, take the rest of the segment off. You deserve it.

Spencer Burke: Uh, okay.

Confused, Burke leaves Ryan alone who waves bye bye before turning towards the camera with a broad smile on his face.

Ryan Wilson: Ladies and Gentlemen MY NAME is RYAN... WILSON! Tonight! A night of premier! A night where you all get to see me perform my very first presentation as a member of Frontier Grappling Arts! Tonight, you get to witness the debut of The Jerk with a Mouth! The leader of the Wilson Nation and the CEO of Wilson WorldWide! Ladies and Gentlemen it is my GREAT pleasure to put myself on display for the fans, but mostly for myself, tonight through contest of battle against an opponent I look forward to facing!

Ryan Wilson: Hello Ymir! Since I signed here in FGA, I was looking to seeing who would be interesting competition and I will not hide the fact you caught my interest. You and I, we seem to share a lot of similarities together. We can put beauty aside, you are quite beautiful and I am the Canadian Studmuffin! Perhaps I will offer you a drink later tonight once our dance is over. We both share similar styles, we are strong, we are energetic in the ring and we both have a desire to lay it all on the line which makes me believe we will have a blast facing each other! I have to say I look forward to going against your strong style because you have to understand something out of me: I love to give and I love to receive! And the more pain I receive the more fun I have! I want to make a superb entrance during my first outing here on the Frontier! I have high expectations, this is very promising! Don't let me down lady Ocampo! See you soon! Now where is that Interviewer, I want to give him his mic back...

[FGA Office]

The show cuts backstage to where some of the members of The New Murder, Jaelynn Ramsey and The Crimson Baroness to be specific, can be found in their locker room. Jaelynn isn’t dressed to wrestle tonight, and has instead opted for a New Murder t-shirt and jeans combo. Whereas TCB is wearing her red bodysuit ahead of her valet duties later tonight. Her face still bearing the welt she received at Only The Strong Survive

Jaelynn Ramsey: Are you sure you’re ready for this?

The Crimson Baroness: Sweetie, please. Malcolm Drake isn’t going to stop me - or stop us - from achieving what we’ve set out to do.

Jaelynn stays silent for a moment, not wanting to point out that Malcolm Drake did in fact stop Chris Bond from becoming both the new #1 contender to the Pride and Undisputed titles. Instead she just smiles wanly at her friend.

The Crimson Baroness: ...I realize how that sounds. But, from now on, sweetie, he won’t do that again. Only The Strong Survive was his last night of glory. From now on it’s all about us.

Jaelynn Ramsey: And claiming those title belts?

The Baroness nods her head emphatically, smirking at Jae, who speaks again.

Jaelynn Ramsey: I’ll do my part, and I’ll make sure Lowri and Sadie both rue the day they crossed me. Before I go on and become a two-time FGA Mid-Atlantic Champion.

The comment causes both women to smile. But the tension in the room begins to rise as Jae folds her arms across her chest, before she continues.

Jaelynn Ramsey: But, before I joined The New Murder, Dom told me all about the original incarnation. He told me all about Malcolm Drake. And if you won’t listen to him, then please listen to me: he’s not going to stop until he’s got what he wants. That’s how people like Malcolm Drake operate.

The Crimson Baroness: I’m quite aware, sweetie…

Jaelynn Ramsey: Are you? Because if he wants to cost Chris opportunities, he won’t hesitate to put you in harm’s way. And as good as you are, as talented as you are, Baroness...I don’t think you’re a match for Malcolm Drake in the long run.

There’s a moment of silence as the two women stare at each other. The Baroness scowling with her lips pressed tightly together, her arms folded across her chest as she takes a step closer to Jaelynn.

The Crimson Baroness: Don’t you have a title belt to focus on, sweetie? Don’t worry about us.

Fortunately for them both they’re interrupted by the arrival of Chris Bond and Fenrys. Both men are dressed in their ring attire, but neither appear too happy, which is understandable after recent events.

Fenrys: Wh--

Chris Bond: What did we walk in on here?

Bond cuts off his stable mate, causing Fenrys to give him a side eye stare from behind the mask. The wolf shakes his head as Bond looks between Jaelynn and his fiancée.

Chris Bond: Who’s going to tell me what’s going on here?

The Crimson Baroness: It’s nothing, sweetie. We were just talking.

Jaelynn Ramsey: About the future.

Bond looks between them both, neither woman budging an inch as Bond turns to Fenrys.

Chris Bond: Do you believe them?

And Fenrys shakes his head.

Chris Bond: We have a big night ahead of us. A lot of work to do, and the last thing we need right now is infighting. After Only The Strong Survive, where Malcolm Drake cost me shots at the Pride and Undisputed titles. Where he attacked The Baroness. Where Jaelynn laid out Sadie…

A smirk appears on Jae’s face at the mention of her previous actions.

Chris Bond: ...we need to pick things up. Fenrys has his match against Yan Yungsung, and you’re going to turn things around, aren’t you?

Fenrys: Like Dom said, he’s gonna be starting his FGA career off on the wrong foot!

Chris Bond: That’s what I want to hear. And I’ve got Luke Jackson later, who’s just managed to win his first singles title in wrestling recently…

The Crimson Baroness: Took him long enough…

Chris Bond: So I need to rain on his parade, and make an example out of him. So Malcolm Drake can watch this, and know what’s in store for him! So he knows not to cross me again. So HE KNOWS that he’ll pay for what he did at Only The Strong Survive! And if Luke Jackson has to pay so Malcolm gets the message, then so be it.

The Baroness claps, giving her fiancé a round of applause for his rousing speech as Jaelynn speaks up.

Jaelynn Ramsey: And I know Lowri is in action later. Maybe we'll get lucky and her match gets scrapped from the card, so that we can get to the main event!

Ramsey gets blank stares from her stablemates as they spot a twinkle in her eye from the mentioning of the main event. She takes note of this, refocusing on the group's objectives.

Jaelynn Ramsey: I won't count my chickens before the eggs hatch, which means this crow will be vigilant for the ones that do. If Lowri believes that she's bulletproof, she's got something else waiting for her! Nothing would please me more than to see her go from smiling wide to swallowing her own teeth in the blink of an eye.  

She bites the bottom of her lip at the thought.

Jaelynn Ramsey: It was a pity that I wasn't booked at Only The Strong Survive and it baffles me that management did not take note to book me tonight. As if punishing me will work. Big mistake, guys. You will see a decrease in viewership, and maybe then you will smarten up!

The Crimson Baroness: An unhappy Lowri? That can be arranged, sweetie...

Chris Bond: One step at a time. We’ve got Yan and Luke in our way tonight. We’ve got Malcolm Drake and Sadie San Francisco looming over the horizon. We’ve got those Mid-Atlantic Legacy and Pride titles in our sights. And nothing will stop us from achieving our goals soon enough. Now let's go.

With that, The New Murder head out of the locker room with Fenrys leading the way, ready for his upcoming match against the debuting Yan Yungsung. Jaelynn and The Crimson Baroness bring up the rear, both smirking at each other as they go.

[FGA Office]

• SINGLES MATCH •
Yan Yungsung vs. Fenrys

The match starts off with Fenrys rushing in on Yungsung and throwing wild rights and lefts. But Yungsung is able to avoid the blows with a Kung Fu parry before taking Fenrys off his feet with a sweep. An arm drag brings The New Murder member down to the mat. Then another. Yungsung then takes control of the wrist and delivers an arm wrench. After Fenrys delivers an arm wrench of his own, Yungsung rolls forward, leans back, kips up and tosses Fenrys to the mat with a fireman’s carry. A dropsault then sends Fenrys through the ropes and to the floor. While Fenrys is picking himself up on the outside, Yungsung rushes into the far ropes, comes back and takes him out with a topé con hilo! Yungsung brings the action back inside and makes the cover. But it only gets two.

Yungsung pulls Fenrys up to his feet and hits him with several shoot kicks to the chest. Yungsung throws out a buzzsaw kick. But Fenrys ducks the kick, leaps to his feet and counters with a Lungblower! The boos continue when he follows up with a Rear Shining Wizard, which gets a two count. A pulling backbreaker also garners a count of two. After sending Yungsung hard into the corner with an irish whip, Fenrys runs into the ropes, catches Yungsung off the rebound and brings him down with a two-handed bulldog! Fenrys follows up with a standing senton across the back for another two count.

As the match continues, Fenrys tosses Yungsung through the ropes. Aftter Yungsung pulls himself up on the apron, Fenrys runs over and clocks him with a Rolling Elbow, sending The Lone Dragon to the floor! As Yungsung picks himself up on the outside, Fenrys runs into the far ropes, comes back and takes him out with a topé suicida! Fenrys brings the action back inside and makes the cover. But it only gets a two count.

In the sixth minute, Fenrys goes for a vertical suplex. But Yungsung slips down from behind, hooks Fenrys’ arms and goes for a release dragon suplex. But Fenrys is able to rotate in the air and lands on his feet! When Yungsung gets back to his feet, Fenrys rushes over and goes to bring him down with a running hurricanrana. But Yungusng is able to cartwheel out of it! He then hits Fenrys with rapid Jeet Kune Do strikes before knocking him down with a roundhouse kick. The cheers continue as a reverse roundhouse kick sends The New Murder member back down to the mat. Once Fenrys gets back to a vertical base, Yugnsung knocks him across the ring with Wing Chun punches before capping off the attack with a bicycle knee to the face! He makes the cover. ONE! TWO!  Fenrys gets the shoulder up.

Yungsung takes Fenrys and goes for an irish whip. But Fenrys reverses, sending The Lone Dragon into the corner. The New Murder member runs across the ring before nailing him with a Corner Bicycle Kick. While Yungsung is dazed, Fenrys lifts him up and sits him down on the top turnbuckle. Fenrys scales the ropes, jumps up onto Yungsung’s shoulders and goes for an avalanche frankensteiner. But Yungsung blocks the move, leaving Fenrys hanging upside down. He then pulls Fenrys back up, stands up and throws him down with a sitout powerbomb! Instead of making the cover, Yungsung heads out onto the apron, scales to the top turnbuckle, leaps off and crashes down on Fenrys with the Lotus Destroyer (Warrior’s Way)! He makes the cover. ONE! TWO! THREE!

Yan Yungsung O || Lotus Destroyer (8:38) || Fenrys X

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

As Vertigo comes back from a commercial break, we find interim-frontman for the New Murder, Chris Bond, standing in the ring with the Crimson Baroness.

Stephy Auger: If you're just now joining us, Chris Bond has spent the last few minutes lecturing the crowd for their actions, cheering Malcolm Drake’s attack of his fiancee at Only the Strong Survive.

Kris Cruise: You're being generous, Stephy. He is belittling and berating them.

Chris Bond: Yeah that's right boo me! Throw those insults at me for telling you all the truth! That bastard could have broken a lesser woman's neck! Probably would have snapped that flaky twig Susan Kent right in half! But my beautiful, beautiful fiancee suffered only a mere laceration.

Bond looks over to the Baroness, who, clutching her signature cane, motions to her forehead. He reaches out to her head, causing the crowd to boo some more. His face turns to a scowl.

Chris Bond: You people disgust me! But my disgust for you has nothing on my anger and down right hatred for that coward Malcolm Drake. He cost me another opportunity at my record setting third reign as your Pride Champion…

The crowd cheers at Drake’s action but are forced to quickly change to boos when Bond emphasizes the word ‘your’.

Chris Bond: And if assaulting my future wife in the process wasn't enough, that son of a bitch went on to cost me another opportunity, this time for the Undisputed Championship later that night during the Gold Rush Rumble.

Bond scowls the most scowly-of-all-scowls as the crowd erupts into another chrous of cheers. The Baroness screams unfriendly words in their general direction.

Chris Bond: Cheering for an ambush, an assault on justice… a down right thievery of my overall greatness… you people are mental!

Bond lowers the microphone for a moment as they erupt in jeers. The Baroness comforts him, saying their opinions are beneath both them and the New Murder.

Chris Bond: You people have taken up enough of my time tonight… tonight I'm out here… not to merely address Malcolm Drake’s cowardly attacks and ambushes. Oh no, I'm out here to confront that little pissant. I know he's here tonight. He wouldn't miss an opportunity to pour salt in my wounds. So Malcolm, come on out. Let's quit playing your little games… and let's finish this, man to man.

Bond lowers the microphone and waits. The crowd cheers for the former head Crow. And after what seems to be a minute or so of nothing, Bond smirks. The crowd boos.

Chris Bond: Come on Malcolm. Step out from the shadows and lets put your little mental mind game to a rest. Let's finish this thing thing in this sh*thole town right… now!

A storm of boos rain down upon both he and the Baroness, who lets out a cackle as her future husband takes another stab at insulting the Birmingham crowd. Once again nothing.

Chris Bond: You have an opportunity to let your vengeance reign down upon me, oh God amongst Men. Come on out here and f*cking smite me!

Bond's anger is starting to boil over as his impatience with Drake grows ever stronger by the moment. Bond starts pacing. The crowd gets antsy. Still nothing, so Bond raises the microphone one more time only to get cut off by the sound of laughter. Malcolm Drake’s laughter to be precise.

The camera pans the packed crowd, searching for signs of life. Bond too, spins around, searching for his arch-nemesis.

Malcolm Drake: We once again find ourselves in a little pickle, don't we Mr. Bond?

Bond rolls his eyes as the Alabama crowd erupts into a fit of cheers.

Malcolm Drake: You, stand out here like a petulant little child, screaming of injustice, reeking of ignorance as you nurse those burns. You fool! I told you I was the inferno, an ever burning flame of chaos. You have no one to blame but yourself. You played with fire and you got burned.

Bond stands there fuming as the crowd cheers every word. The former two-time Pride Champion erupts with rage.

Chris Bond: You little prick! Get out here and face me like a man!

Bond's face is red with rage. Drake lets out another laugh, just causing Bond's blood to boil even more.

Chris Bond: You people cheer this coward? You cheer the actions of a delusional madman!? What kind of altered reality is this!? You sycophants cheer for a man who preys upon the innocent! You champion his guerrilla warfare! You cheer for a coward!

Bond screams these words, one after another, directly into the crowd. They boo him with every syllable. They hate him as much as he hates them.

Drake’s laughter overtakes the booing crowd.

Malcolm Drake: Impotence and rage, Christopher. Impotence and rage…

Bond is furious… angry to a point of literal eruption and tears… and screams into the microphone…

Chris Bond: SHOW YOURSELF!

Drake’s laughter returns…

Chris Bond: YOU COWARD!!!

His laughter gets more visceral, and grows louder.

Bond throws the microphone down in a fit of rage and walks to the ropes, shaking them in anger and screaming at the top of his lungs “I'm going to kill you!”

Drake’s laughter rolls over the crowd, as they cheer on Bond's breakdown. The Baroness goes to comfort her future husband.

Kris Cruise: Drake really got into his head, Stephy. Bondo may have bitten off more than he chew.

Stephy Auger: Hardly. He's merely lulling him into a false sense of security…

Kris Cruise: If that's truly the case, and Chris Bond didn't just have a mental breakdown. Well, that man deserves an Oscar for that performance.

[FGA Office]

Standing against a wall in the backstage area we find “the OTHER” member of Pendragon, Neal Durden. Wearing the green Pendragon shirt over some worn out jeans, he seems calm and collected. Not being scheduled to have a match tonight, he has the luxury to kick back and enjoy the show… after all, he not only competed in the Rey del Aire tournament, making it all the way to the final, but just a couple of days later, he took part in the Gold Rush Rumble, lasting almost half an hour in it. From one side of the hallway comes Jessie Pederson.

Neal takes a look at the interviewer and pushes himself away from the wall, preparing himself for whatever question Jessie might throw at him. He smiles as Jessie takes up her position and starts doing her job.

Jessie Pederson: Ladies and gentlemen, my guest right now… Neal Durden!

The camera then takes a shot of Neal’s face, as he smiles to those watching and patiently waits for Jessie to continue talking.

Jessie Pederson: So, Rey del Aire…

The mere mention of the tournament’s name garners a pop from the crowd and a wide smile from Neal.

Jessie Pederson: Even though you didn’t walk away with the victory, many believe it was your break out party. Having had a week or so to digest everything that went down, what’s your feeling about your performance in this year’s tournament?

Neal takes a deep breath as he closes his eyes. Then a smirk appears on his face, and he begins to talk.

Neal Durden: As you said, having had all of this past week to regain composure and think about the tournament, I think my comments on Twitter still stand. Many see Rey del Aire as my coming out party, and I stand with them. I wanted to show what I can do, I wanted everyone to know that I’m not just the OTHER member of a tag team… I wanted to prove my worth… and I think I managed to do that not only in Rey del Aire, but also in the Gold Rush Rumble.

Jessie smiles, leaving room for Neal to continue speaking, which he does after a small sigh.

Neal Durden: Sure, I didn’t manage to win either of those. The newest member of the Flashpoint brand got one over me in Rey del Aire, and the leader of my team at Steel Warfare managed to walk away as the winner of the Rumble… but I’m sure there’s no doubt in anyone’s mind about who exactly am I, and what it is that I do.

Jessie brings the microphone close to her once more before speaking.

Jessie Pederson: Speaking of the Gold Rush Rumble, just three days after competing in three matches on one night for the second night of the Rey del Aire tournament, you competed in the aforementioned match, outlasting a plethora of wrestlers and having one of the highest total times in the match. What are your thoughts on your first experience being a part of the Rumble?

Neal smiles, wider than the one he bore before when asked about the Rey del Aire tournament.

Neal Durden: Well, I outlasted Lowri…

He shrugged before bursting out laughing and continuing his speech.

Neal Durden: But in all seriousness, I knew my odds were slim, so I went out there and just gave it my all. I didn’t know how long I would last in the match, how my body would react to taking on another marathon of wrestling just mere days after being in three matches that combined for over an hour of in ring time… so, I just wanted not to be eliminated in the first couple of minutes of making it into the ring.

Neal takes a moment, as he drives his hands to his waist and continues talking.

Neal Durden: I’d like to congratulate Jimmy Page; the guy surely deserves a shot at the Undisputed Championship and if it wasn’t me, I’m glad it was him who ended up with the victory there.

Jessie gets the microphone back and asks another question.

Jessie Pederson: Speaking of the Undisputed Championship, Vertigo now has the current champion within its ranks, albeit under controversial circumstances. Do you have any take on that?

Neal looks sideways at Jessie, before taking a deep breath.

Neal Durden: Not really… I can’t say I approve or disapprove of things I don’t know the whole story about. So, I’ll just limit myself to say, I’m glad Jimmy Page won the Gold Rush Rumble; I can’t think of a more deserving winner.

Jessie senses the awkwardness in the air and retracts the microphone, opting to ask Neal about Lowri instead.

Jessie Pederson: So, also at Only The Strong Survive, your partner in Pendragon -- and life -- Lowri Moss, managed to defend the Mid Atlantic Legacy Championship against Sadie San Francisco. How do you feel about that?

Neal’s eyes sparkle at the question. There is obvious glee in him at the thought of Lowri managing to defend the belt she fought so hard to get.

Neal Durden: Proud, honestly, there’s no other way to describe how I felt when she came back to the backstage area after the match was over. Yes, I know her celebration was tainted thanks to Jaelynn Ramsey -- what a shock -- but, there’s no way to deny she’s a deserving champion…

Just as Neal finishes saying the word champion, Lowri appears behind him, getting a pop from the crowd. The Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship is draped over her right shoulder, and there is a wide, proud smile on her face. Neal still does not know that she is standing right there, so it takes him by surprise when Lowri taps him on the shoulder with her index finger and playfully moves in front of him.

Lowri Moss: My ears were burning.

She gives Neal a kiss on the cheek, before looking towards Jessie.

Jessie Pederson: I was just asking Neal about Only The Strong Survive, and you successfully defending the Mid Atlantic Legacy Championship; I’m sure you must have been delighted to get the first defense of your title under your belt.

Lowri and Neal exchanges glances. She then turns back to the reporter.

Lowri Moss: Well, let’s put it this way, Jessie: if you had interviewed me immediately after my match with Sadie, you certainly would have found me to be in a lot better mood than I was when I spoke to you at Only The Strong Survive last year, following my quick elimination from last year’s Gold Rush Rumble.

Jessie Pederson: You and Sadie left it all in the ring, in a match that was more physical and more hard-hitting than your previous contests.

Before Jessie can expand upon that, Lowri interjects.

Lowri Moss: In the ring, and outside it.

Jessie gives a nod, as Lowri continues.

Lowri Moss: You’re right, Jessie: it was hard-hitting, and hard-fought - just as I anticipated it would be. Sadie and I had said that we wouldn’t hold anything back, and we definitely didn’t, with both of us giving it our all. We threw caution to the wind, and we pushed each other to the limit - as expected - but in the end, on that particular night, I guess my limit was just a little bit greater than Sadie’s. I was desperate not to have my reign as champion come to an end in my first defence, and thankfully, I was able to leave Orlando with the title still in my possession.

Lowri gazes down momentarily at the championship belt on her shoulder. She then looks back to Jessie, with a wide smile still prominent on her face.

Lowri Moss: After how our previous one-on-one match ended, this time I got to have the match with Sadie that I wanted - that we both wanted - and I suppose most importantly, it had the outcome that I wanted. In the sit-down interview that you conducted with me and Sadie last month, Sadie said that if Dom Harter hadn’t interfered in our previous encounter, then I would’ve won that match, and I would’ve become the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion that night. It was very magnanimous of her to say that, but I wanted to make sure that come the end of our match at Only The Strong Survive, there was no doubt that I could beat Sadie, as well as no doubt that I deserve to be the champion, and as I stand here now, with this belt over my shoulder, I think I can safely say that I accomplished both of those things.

Jessie Pederson: At times during the match, Sadie used what some people would consider to be questionable tactics, such as choking you with her boot, and stomping on your fingers; do you have any issues at all with her actions?

Lowri responds with a shake of her head.

Lowri Moss: I knew that Sadie would do whatever she thought was necessary in order to try to regain this championship, and I don’t feel like at any point during the match she took things too far. So no, I don’t have any problem with her actions - if I did, I wouldn’t have shaken hands with her afterwards.

Jessie Pederson: As you may have heard Neal allude to, Sadie was then attacked following your match by Jaelynn Ramsey. What are your thoughts on that incident?

The smile fades from Lowri’s face somewhat. She bites her lower lip, as she replays the scene in her mind.

Lowri Moss: Let’s just say...it took a bit of the shine off my victory.

She then lets out a sigh.

Lowri Moss: I get it, though. Jae isn’t happy that her reign as Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion was so short-lived, and so she decided to do something about that. Did she deliberately target Sadie rather than me, or did she just set out to attack whichever of the two of us she came upon first?

There is a shrug of the shoulders from Lowri.

Lowri Moss: After what happened, I’m sure Sadie is going to want to get her pound of flesh, but if Jae wants her return match for the title, then she’s more than welcome to get in the ring with me, and we’ll see how that turns out.

Neal puts his arm around Lowri’s shoulders, before grinning at the camera.

Neal Durden: But, first… you have to face one of the semi-finalists of the Rey del Aire tournament. Marlon Cure.

Neal stretched out a bit before putting his arm back around Lowri’s shoulders.

Neal Durden: Yet, it’s not like you have a Rey del Aire finalist to ask for some tips going into that match or anything by your side… you know?

That causes Lowri to roll her eyes, almost scoffing at Neal’s remark.

Lowri Moss: I hope you’re not letting your performances in Rey del Aire and the Gold Rush Rumble go to your head. I can still kick your arse… you know?

A smirk crosses her face, and she gives Neal a wink. Neal backs off from her, with a smile on his face. He gently taps her arm with his knuckles in a playful manner.

Neal Durden: Our track record would suggest that to be the case… yes.

He starts laughing, as if to give Lowri enough time to break away from the joking and talk seriously about her opponent. Smiling, Lowri turns her attention back towards Jessie.

Lowri Moss: Sorry about that, Jessie. Was there anything else you wanted to ask me, before we were rudely interrupted?

Jessie Pederson: Well, seeing as Neal brought it up, later tonight you’ll be facing Marlon Cure, in what will be his first match on Vertigo, since joining FGA following his participation in Rey del Aire. What are you expecting from this match?

Lowri exhales, before proceeding to answer Jessie’s question.

Lowri Moss: This may be Cure's first match on Vertigo since he joined FGA full-time, but I'm under no illusions about how challenging a match it's going to be; with his ability, and his style, I'm expecting it to be one of the trickiest matches that I've had so far in FGA.

Lowri casts a glance in Neal’s direction, while recalling the recent Rey del Aire tournament. She then looks back to Jessie, and continues.

Lowri Moss: You know, I was at the Hammerstein Ballroom last month for both nights of the Rey del Aire tournament, and while my primary reason for being there was to support Neal, I got to watch all of the other matches as well, including each of the three matches that Cure was in. I watched him reach the semi-finals, picking up a win over Owen Gonsalves along the way, and I'm going to have to be at my best tonight, if I'm to avoid suffering the same fate as Owen. I was already well aware of what Cure was capable of prior to Rey del Aire though, having seen him compete elsewhere, particularly in New Kingdom PRO. He and I never crossed paths in NKP, but I saw the matches he had there with the likes of Molly Reid and James Edwards, amongst others, and his talent was clear for all to see.

She places her left hand on her hip.

Lowri Moss: During my own time in NKP, I barely scratched the surface of what I'm capable of, whereas here in FGA, people have gotten to watch my star rise. If Marlon Cure hasn't been paying attention, however, then when he sets foot inside a Vertigo ring for the first time, he'll soon discover how I’ve come to be a champion in FGA. I can't fly as high around the ring as Cure does, but at the same time, I know that he can't match my strikes, and as good as he is, I know that I can get the better of him.

Jessie Pederson: This match is of course a non-title match, so with your title not on the line, is there any temptation for you to--

Sensing where this is heading, Lowri interrupts Jessie.

Lowri Moss: ...for me to take this match a bit easier than, say, the match I had with Sadie at Only The Strong Survive?

The reporter nods, prompting Lowri to shake her head.

Lowri Moss: My title may not be at stake in this match, but that doesn't mean that I can afford to take it easy; I can ill afford to lose any match right now.

A brief pauses follows, with Lowri letting out a small sigh.

Lowri Moss: I'm sure there are some people that are just waiting for me to slip up, and I know that if I was to lose, then that would give them greater reason to question how much longer it will be before my reign as Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion is over; I want to hold onto this title for as long as I can, which means that I need to keep up the habit of winning matches. Obviously, Marlon Cure isn't going to want to have his Vertigo debut end in a loss, but regardless of the fact that my title isn't on the line, I need to win this match. Cure should have a big future ahead of him on Vertigo, and in FGA as a whole, but he's going to have to wait at least another two weeks for his first victory as an official member of the roster, because tonight I plan on continuing to show everyone that I deserve to carry this championship.

She adjusts the belt on her shoulder. Neal looks at her and then at Jessie, before he interjects himself back into the conversation.

Neal Durden: And don’t forget, there are other pretty belts that might look mighty fine over these —

He signals to both himself and Lowri before continuing.

Neal Durden: Shoulders… so, if these past few weeks have taught the FGA faithful anything, let that be… that PENDRAGON is here to take over!

After that both Lowri and Neal give a stare to the camera before smiling and walking away as the scene cuts elsewhere.

[FGA Office]

• SINGLES MATCH •
Ryan Wilson vs. Ymir Ocampos

Ocampos brings Wilson down with a running hurricanrana to start off the match. She then follows up with a handspring armdrag. Once Wilson gets back to his feet, Ocampos runs over and knocks him down with a rolling koppu kick for a two count. She then sends Wilson into the ropes. She then throws out a front dropkick. But she does so too early, allowing Wilson to hang onto the ropes. After Ocampos crashes on the mat, Wilson heads over to attack when Ocampos brings him down with a kip up headscissors takedown. Ocampos brings Wilson back to his feet and knocks him against the ropes with several knife edge chops. She then turns and runs into the ropes. When Ocampos returns, Wilson ducks and dumps her over the top rope. Instead of landing on the floor, Ocampos lands on the apron. When Wilson turns around, Ocampos knocks him back with a rope-aided gamengiri before knocking him down with the Black Rain (springboard clothesline)! She makes the cover. But it only gets a count of two.

As the match continues, Ocampos sets up for a back body drop. But Wilson counters with a swinging neckbreaker for a two count. The Jerk with a Mouth hits a power snap suplex for another two count. He then shoots Ocampos into the ropes. Upon her return, he sets up for a back body drop of his own. But Ocampos hurdles over him before heading into the ropes. When Ocampos comes back, Wilson flattens her with an Italian Mafia Kick for a two count! Wilson brings the action into the corner and lights her up with knife edge chops. He then goes for an irish whip. But it’s reversed, sending Wilson into the corner. Ocampos runs across the ring to attack. But she gets turned around with a big boot to the face. As Ocampos staggers away from the corner, Wilson runs out of the corner and knocks her down with a Northern Lariat! He makes the cover. But it only gets two.

In the fifth minute, an inverted headlock backbreaker brings Ocampos down. He then steps out to the apron, scales to the top turnbuckle and goes for a guillotine leg drop. But Ocampos rolls out of the way, causing Wilson to crash onto the canvas! After Wilson slowly gets back up, Ocampos nails him with a flurry of stiff kicks to the knee and calf. After Wilson drops to a knee, Ocampos knocks him down with a rapid knee strike for a two count. An irish whip is reversed, sending Ocampos into the corner. Wilson heads over to attack when Ocampos counters with a back elbow strike. She the follows up with the Fuel Injection (springboard wheelbarrow bulldog)! She makes the cover. ONE! TWO! Wilson gets his shoulder up. Ocampos then sends him into the corner with an irish whip. She runs across the ring, jumps up and connects with a corner hesitation dropkick! After Wilson crumbles from out of the corner, Ocampos scales to the top turnbuckle. When she flips back for a moonsault, Wilson rolls out of the way. But Ocampos is able to land on her feet before quickly following up with a standing moonsault for a two count! Ocampos runs into the far ropes, comes back and plants Wilson with a Satellite DDT for another two count! She then steps out onto the apron and goes to climb the turnbuckles. As soon as she reaches the top, Wilson runs up the turnbuckles, grabs her and throws her down with a superplex into a Falcon Arrow! Wilson then drags Ocampos towards the center of the ring and turns her over into the Fourth Wall Break (Walls of Jericho). The crowd boos as Ocampos taps out.

Ryan Wilson O || Fourth Wall Break (7:39) || Ymir Ocampos X

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

The Vertigo feed cuts backstage and we open to Spencer Burke standing in the parking lot with a smile.

Spencer Burke: Ladies and gentlemen, we have quite the show lined up for you tonight! A stacked card from top to bottom and our Main Event sees our FGA Undisputed Champion, Evan Envi, in singles action as he takes on Kol. I'm trying to get a word with Kol when he enters the arena --

Just as Spencer Burke begins to run down the nights events, he’s suddenly interrupted by the appearance of a blacked out 2018 Chevrolet Corvette pulling into the parking lot and pulled right into the parking space next to him. Burke quickly steps aside as the car's engine turns off, and he can't help but try to take a peek through one of the tented windows to try and catch a glimpse of the car's occupants.

A second later, the driver's side door slides open and a beautiful female driver steps out of the seat and walks over to the passenger’s side and opens the door. She flashes Burke a smile as she saunters around the vehicle.

Driver: You mind takin' a step back there, Honey?

Burke blinks, before realizing he's standing in the way of the passenger door.

Spencer Burke: O-oh! Of course.

Burke takes a step back as The Driver walks over towards the Passenger's Side and opens the door up. Stepping out of the car is Vertigo's newest signee, "The Human Highlight Reel", Marlon Cure. The flashy High Flyer, dressed to the nines in a black suit with the jacket draped over both shoulders and a matching hat, gave a slick smile to his driver as she hands him his signature cigar. She in turn gives Cure a wink as he hands her a wad of bills, before heading back to the car. Burke quickly approaches Cure as he lights the cigar and turns to walk towards the building.

Spencer Burke: Marlon, first of all allow me to be the first to officially welcome to FGA’s Vertigo brand. Second, many were surprised at your debut during The Gold Rush Rumble. What is it that brought you here to Frontier Grappling Arts?

Burke goes to raise a mic up to Cure’s lips, causing Cure to smirk ass he raises a hand to light his cigar.

Marlon Cure: Everybody got a taste during Rey Del Aire of what I’m about. What I can do in between them ropes and what I want: To beat the best talents the world has to offer me and reap the rewards that come with it.

Marlon Cure: Now? I’m signed to a roster that has some of the best Pro Wrestling has to offer. I get the chance to take on the people on this roster that get the tickers ticking and computers ‘puting, line my wallet and maybe win some gold along the way.

Burke nods in a bit of understanding, before quickly going to his next question.

Spencer Burke: Tonight you have your first match as a member of the roster as you take on Lowri Moss later on tonight. What are your thoughts?

Cure’s brows furrow a bit as he answers

Marlon Cure: She’s young in the game, but she’s passionate. You can tell with every word homegirl speaks every time she’s got a mic in her hands or whenever she’s out there in the ring in front of a crowd that she lives, breathes this business. If she were going heads up against anybody else on the roster tonight, she’d probably end up willing herself to a W, right?

Marlon pauses at Burke’s slow nod, before his lips curl into an arrogant smirk.

Marlon Cure: But unfortunately for her, I ain’t just anybody. I’m King Cure. I don’t know what tonight means for her other than a hard earned Loss, but for me it’s setting the tone for my stay here. When I signed the contract that brought me on, I got asked if I was ready for all the talent that Flashpoint and Vertigo had to offer, I asked in turn was his roster ready for me and what I can do? Can they keep up with me when I start running through everybody, or do I gotta slow down so they can play that never ending game of catch up? I promised big things out the gate because that’s the only way I know how to do things in that ring and no matter who or what gets thrown out in front of me, I always deliver. Tonight, it just happens to be at Lowri’s expense.

Giving a small shrug, Cure’s smirk only widens.

Marlon Cure: Aye, but she can take solace in the fact that she’s falling short to the future Greatest of All Time in his prime.

With that, Cure turns around and begins to walk towards the door leading inside the arena as the screen fades to black.

[FGA Office]

Kris Cruise: It's already starting to look like this is another action-packed episode of Vertigo here this evening from downtown Birmingham, Alabama, and Stephy there is still so much left for tonight!

Stephy Auger: Of course there is, Kris! We still have one of the biggest main events in Vertigo history with Kol versus the new Undisputed Champion Evan Envi! And Ricky Valero gets to join me in adding more class to this commentary table!

Kris Cruise: Oh come on now...

Stephy Auger: “Come on” yourself! This night isn't going to be ruined for me!

Just as Stephy says this, the lights in the arena begin to slowly fade out to the opening tunes of the metal cover of "Eye of the Tiger," causing the crowd inside Legacy Arena to erupt happily.

Stephy Auger: Whoever is pulling my leg in production better watch themselves!

Kris Cruise: I think this is more than just pulling your leg, Stephy! Alabama's own has come home after one of the biggest weekends of his career!

The lights flash quickly back on once the rifts of the guitar begin playing, along with being met with flashes of blue and gold light on the stage. Once the song picks up into its normal tune about 25 seconds in, Tyler Storm rushes out from behind the curtain to one of the loudest positive pops he's had in FGA, bobbing his head to the beat of the song and mouthing out to his home state fans.

Kris Cruise: There he is! Tyler Storm is here tonight inside the BJCC's Legacy Arena and this crowd is beyond happy to see one of their home grown talent here this evening. After this weekend he had, we can say the Iron Man is back in the Iron City of the South!

Stephy Auger: The guy was the ironman of the Rumble, blah blah. He didn't even make it into the final 4 of the match!

Kris Cruise: Maybe so but to go the distance he did after competing in a match earlier during Only The Strong Survive, where let me remind everyone you are looking at the #1 Contender to the Pride Championship! Winning that Fatal Four Way to earn the future opportunity against Fujiko Mine, then going on later to last nearly 49 difficult minutes in the Rumble, that is a feat you can't take away.

Stephy Auger: Kris, I'm about to take away your headset if you don't shut up.

Kris Cruise: Hey, I'm doing my job Stephy! Analysis is key!

Once the lyrics start, Tyler begins making his way down the ramp, walking along the left for the first half of his trek to the ring and high-fiving fans or talking with them, and doing the same in the second half of his walk on the right side. Before long he reaches ringside and interacts with a few more people at ringside, including a moment where he stops in front of a few toddlers and a pair of ladies who are sitting right at ringside wearing some of Tyler's new shirts, hugging and kissing the kissing the kids on their heads. Afterwards he works his way up the stairs onto the ring apron. He rubs his feet off for a few moments, then gripping onto the top rope he jumps up and slides his legs in between the top and middle ropes and into the ring.

The song goes on for a few more moments with Storm motioning out to the crowd to keep up their huge reaction before walking over to the side of the ring near the timekeepers and is handed a mic. He returns from this exchange to the center of the ring just as the drawn out "Eye of the Tiger" lyric hits and slowly fades away, leaving the audience's ovation to overtake the arena.

TYLER STORM!
WELCOME HOME!

TYLER STORM!
WELCOME HOME!

TYLER STORM!
WELCOME HOME!

Stephy Auger: It was all going to go so well...then this.

Tyler stands listening to the crowd in awe as he holds the mic to his side just nodding his head and smiling to them all. He attempts to lift the mic up to his mouth but is met with another very loud set of cheers that has him lower the mic back down, another chant proceeding.

WE ARE WITNESS!
IRON MAN!

WE ARE WITNESS!
IRON MAN!

WE ARE WITNESS!
IRON MAN!

He continues to just stand there, just laughing and he eventually just applauds the fans in attendance who applaud themselves and Tyler in unison. He's finally awarded the chance to speak and raises the mic.

Tyler Storm: And they thought not scheduling me here tonight to compete would keep me from stepping in this ring for y'all. I am never gonna skip out on missing this! Tyler Storm is back in the Magic City and you guys are freaking amazing!

The audience pops to the comment and goes on for a good few seconds before Tyler continues.

Tyler Storm: It is really awesome to be back home tonight and even if I'm not the best with celebration, I couldn't think of a better place to follow up what happened to me at Only The Strong Survive than to come back to a place that is my co-home town and where I spent so much time in my life growing up. Coming to so many different sporting events in this very arena and in other spots in Birmingham and of course in Tuscaloosa...

A few fans pop hearing the name of the home of The University of Alabama, a few "Roll Tide" chants popping off from some fans in the crowd, of course getting a smile out of Tyler.

Tyler Storm: I hear ya, Bama fans. Roll Tide to y'all. Still love you Auburn folk too though, don't worry...but yes, I do have a lot of history in this state obviously with this being home for me, and Birmingham especially. I split a lot of time between this city and a little south in Tuscaloosa, so to say I'm not beyond happy this was the spot we landed after that Pay-Per-View that gave us here at FGA a lot of big moments. I mean, a new Undisputed Champion who jumped ship to Vertigo, returns, Jimmy Page winning the Gold Rush Rumble!

The fans react to each response there pretty loudly, the most split and even considered negative reaction being to that towards Evan Envi, and the most positive for Jimmy Page's mention, which Tyler nods to.

Tyler Storm: Lots of respect from y'all for him and I don't blame y'all! Jimmy deserves the love, hard worker with a lot I respect. And all that and more...definitely more...happened during that show. Including a couple of big moments that really meant the world to me...I'm of course talking about my own contribution to the Rumble and the big moment earlier in the night of the Fatal Four Way! Nobody could have told me walking into Amway Center that night that I would have been as successful as I was. Of course I was definitely planning on giving my focus and everything I had into the Four Way match, knowing you are never sure what to expect from those kinds of matches with strategies having to not just be deeper but also a bit on the fly. And that was definitely the case in every way in that match against those particular opponents. And once that was finished, activating that other part of my training to focus towards an endurance and higher strategy game for the Gold Rush Rumble...to say my mind was all over the place would be an understatement!

Tyler begins to pace around the ring as he looks around at the crowd before him.

Tyler Storm: Despite all that jumble in my head, the tiredness I was feeling from pulling double duty, I pulled off some pretty damn great stuff at Only The Strong Survive! As sore and tired as I was heading into the main event, I sucked up every bit of hurt I had and ran into that Rumble at #9 with a mission to give the FGA fans something to remember of Tyler Storm! And I did just that, not only by being part of eliminating 4 people from that match, not only by finishing in the final 6 before being caught on the wrong end of a fun exchange with Chandler Scott which I have no shame for going out that way and I applaud Chandler for giving his all to take me out of that match...but this Alabama boy lasted nearly 49-50 minutes in the Gold Rush Rumble in my first ever appearance! My fire burned in that match, I did my work, and the FGA record books now will hold for at the very least another year that Tyler Storm lasted longer than any male in the history of that match in Frontier Grappling Arts Wrestling!

The audience pops for Tyler acknowledging the accomplishment and he pumps his fist and smiles brightly seeing the fans really get into him being as successful as he was.

Tyler Storm: For a guy like me, that worked his ass off every day for that night, to do that means the world and trust me, I couldn't do that without the support of y'all...

Tyler points over to the toddlers and women sitting at ringside, getting a little choked up as he glances at them, the crowd clapping as he speaks towards them

Tyler Storm: The support of my family and friends, including those sitting at ringside right there with my beautiful kids and my mother and a good friend of mine...

Tyler wipes at his eyes and works through the emotions with a bright and happy smile.

Tyler Storm: All that support right there and around me here in this arena and around the country and globe. You guys give me that eternal fire to fight through pain, fight through doubt, fight through it all, and thank you for keeping this train on the rails for me and I promise you all we are not done yet! And that does bring me to something very important...first that I did mention I lasted longer than any MALE in the Gold Rush Rumble in FGA history. And I think you guys know where I'm going with this, and if you aren't let me get you up to speed. Even if I did not find a way to win the Gold Rush Rumble...let's not forget what else I mentioned that I competed in a Fatal Four Way match earlier that night. And in that match I was fighting for a chance to compete for the Pride Championship at some point in the future, that title currently being held by the longest lasting person in the Rumble's history...Fujiko Mine!

The fans give a very nice reaction to the Pride Champion's mention as Tyler goes on.

Tyler Storm: I'm sure a lot of you watched the show and I did already give away a few spoilers from what happened at Only The Strong Survive, and I do apologize for that but still encourage any of you new viewers to go watch that amazing show, but here's one more spoiler alert. I was given an incredible opportunity in that Fatal Four Way to compete against 3 well deserving competitors currently in FGA that had every bit a chance as me if not more to win that opportunity that night. Susan Kent, a girl who still has so much left to do in FGA and someone I respect highly for the effort she put in to make it to the moment she did and Susan I hope you keep your head up because I see big things for you if you keep a straight mind about everything. Chris Bond, a 2 time former Pride Champion, a multiple time FGA title contender, the Battle Hardened Veteran of New Murder...

The mention of the group gets a very mixed response from the Birmingham attendees, which Tyler gives a shrug to understanding the reputation.

Tyler Storm: I may not be the biggest fan of how you handle things, Chris, especially when they involve your manager slash fiance getting involved in business she shouldn't be a part of, but I do still respect what you have done in this ring and in this company and salute you sir for that. And of course, I can't forget...Seth Iser.

This one gets a few more boos from the crowd, more likely due to what he and Tyler have been embroiled in for the last few weeks. This gets a smirk out of Tyler who gives a motion for the fans to calm.

Tyler Storm: Hey, I got y'all, don't worry here...trust me a lot of people don't like Seth Iser and some people wouldn't blame ya. But fact is, as much as Seth can get on my wrong side a lot of the time, especially with the assistance of Vincent Moretti, as much as he can turn into a sadistic @$$hole towards not only us fellow competitors but to you fans...Seth knows end of the day me and him are equals in a lot of personal ways and Iser just know bud...I know it will never be over between us with this kind of stuff, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Buuuuuuut...all three of those people stepped in the ring with me, fought a valiant match, a little bit of trouble and controversy involved thanks to what that little situation is between Bond and Malcolm Drake...but no excuse, no ifs, ands, or buts...when it came down to it, I speared Susan Kent in half! I avoided a Deprivation DDT with every last bit of wherewithal I had! I hit Seth Iser with a good ol' fashion ALABAMA Slam! And I hit that son with an Eye of the Storm like I've never hit it before for the...

He holds up his fan as they erupt happily and count out loud.

ONE!

TWO!

THREE!

Tyler Storm: And that's all...she...wrote! I accomplished a big goal for myself in that moment that I never thought I would do in such a short amount of time here on Vertigo and in FGA, and I now get one big opportunity to face off for the Pride Championship. And all that now out on the table, that brings me to the fact of to take advantage of this opportunity...we need a time...we need a place...and I need to know if Fujiko Mine is up to the challenge of going one-on-one. So Fujiko, here it is...at All-Star Showdown VII I am laying out the challenge! The two of us have worked our asses off to prove our worth to this company, you admittedly for a much longer time as me but at Only The Strong Survive you proved you are a fighting and deserving Pride Champion who cares about that belt and I respect that. At All-Star Showdown I am asking you to help me bring that fighting champion spirit into Seattle, put your Pride Championship on the line, and the Iron Woman versus the Iron Man rocks Safeco Field like an Ichiro home run!

The audience is getting even more riled up again as Tyler is starting to get very excited talking in the center of the ring, looking out towards the stage.

Tyler Storm: Birmingham, let her hear it, I know she is back there and I know she wants to really know if it's worth it. Fujiko Mine vs Tyler Storm for the FGA Pride Championship at All-Star Showdown! Let's hear an answer, Fujiko, let's put this down, let's show FGA how we do things at the top of our game on a big stage!

Kris Cruise: And as expected, Tyler is wanting this match to be on one of this company's biggest stages at All-Star Showdown VII. Tyler wants the Pride Championship, the crowd agrees with him here tonight in Alabama, but the question is does the Pride Champion Fujiko Mine agree to the terms?!?

Two quick guitar riffs ring out through the arena, answering Kris’ question. The crowd cheers loudly as warm pink and gold lights swirl around the arena.

I’m calling you...from the future…to let you know we made a mistake...

The lights over the ring go out completely, giving the arena the appearance of a dance club.

And there’s a fog from the past that’s giving me such a headache…

The lights fade for a moment, and then kick back in as Patrick Stump’s vocals wash over the arena.

And I'm back with a madness
I'm a champion of the people who don't believe in champions
I got nothing but dreams inside, I got nothing but dreams
I'm just young enough to still believe, still believe
But young enough not to know what to believe in
Young enough not to know what to believe in, yeah
…

At the top of one of the crowd entrances, one Fujiko Mine appears. The camera focuses on her as she looks out at the fans surrounding her. She is dressed in a black variation of her “Popular”  shirt. The imposing Xena stands behind her, holding onto Fujiko’s Pride championship. The nearest fans wave to catch her attention; Fujiko slaps some hands as she makes her way through the crowd and down to the ring.

Kris Cruise: It appears as if she’s come to deliver her answer personally!

If I can live through this
If I can live through this
If I can live through this…

Fujiko stops where she is, and throws her hands straight up in the air. All the lights in the arena go bright, and she yells out along with the song and the crowd…

”I CAN DO ANYTHING!!”

She continues moving towards the ring, and as the lyric comes back around, she repeats the previous motion. Fujiko reaches the ringside area, and follows it up with a graceful handspring onto and over the guardrail. She quickly runs up the steps, then hops onto the top turnbuckle. Xena clears the guardrail behind her, and a single spotlight converges on the woman known as the Apex Goddess. She gets down, looking at Tyler with a smile. There are a few boos in the crowd, and Fujiko looks in their direction for a moment. She nods, acknowledging them as Xena reaches up and hands Fujiko the Pride title. She takes it gratefully, before approaching Tyler.  She does not take his microphone, but lets her body language do the talking. She looks at Storm, then at her title. She then points her index finger into the center of her chest, then she points at a banner for All-Star Showdown.

She can barely suppress a grin as she nods and extends her free hand out for him to shake. Tyler looks around to the very happy fans to gauge their reaction, obviously cheers signaling how they feel about this moment, and Tyler extends out his hand and shakes Fujiko’s to a big pop. They glance over one another while keeping their hands gripped to each other, Tyler giving a very happy grin as he looks at the Pride Championship, and mouths something to her that is followed by a small laugh. “Eye of the Tiger” begins to play in the arena again as Tyler moves away from the handshake and motions to the crowd to get them to react positively some more as both competitors stand in the ring.

Kris Cruise: I believe that gives us a pretty obvious answer from just the motions of the Pride Champion herself, she wants Tyler at All-Star Showdown! We only wait now for how our General Manager responds to this showing here tonight, but something tells me he will be glad to book this.

Stephy Auger: Maybe these two will beat the hell out of each other enough in the next few weeks because of this so I can focus on the more enjoyable moments.

Kris Cruise: Always the life of the party Stephy. Well ladies and gents, make sure not to go anywhere because there is still plenty to come here on Vertigo!

Tyler has run over to the corner and popped over to the corner, standing on the middle turnbuckle and turned towards the fans just smiling. Fujiko exits the ring, carefully handing the Pride championship back to Xena, who follows her as she begins to exit up the ramp. She takes one last look over her shoulder at her challenger with a smile before the angle switches back to the enthusiastic Tyler, and Vertigo goes to commercial.

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

Friday, July 13, 2018
KeyArena
Seattle, WA
LIVE and ONLY on AxxessNet

[FGA Office]

• SINGLES MATCH •
Chris Bond vs. Luke Jackson

Jackson catches Bond off guard with a pair of dropkicks to start off the match. Bond tries to take advantage by reversing an irish whip. But when Jackson comes back, he knocks Bond down with a spinning heel kick for a two count! Jackson then tries to control the arm with several arm wrenches. But Bond stops that by sucker punching The Kid. After a scoop slam, Bond proceeds to deliver limb stomps before finishing off with a spinning bootscape across the face. The Battle-Hardened Veteran reaches down, yanks up Jackson and tosses him through the ropes and out onto the apron. Bond drags him across the ropes to set up for the Rejection (rope-hung DDT). But before he can hit the move, Jackson unhooks his legs and counters with a hotshot across the top rope. The crowd cheers while Bond stumbles around the ring holding his throat. When he turns around, Jackson knocks him off his feet with a superkick for a two count!

As the match continues, Jackson sets up Bond for a belly to back suplex. But Bond blocks it with multiple elbows across the back of the head. He then grabs Jackson from the side and brings him down with a jumping backbreaker for a two count! A snap suplex gets a two count! An STO Backbreaker also gets a two count! Bond then goes for a belly to back of his own when Jackson rolls over his shoulder and lands on his feet. He catches Bond off guard with a schoolboy rollup. But Bond kicks out at two. After both grapplers scramble back to a vertical base, Bond turns him inside out with a running lariat! He makes the cover. But Jackson gets his shoulder up at two.

In the sixth minute, Bond hoists up Jackson for a gutwrench powerbomb. But Jackson’s able to counter with a hurricanrana! Another pair of dropkicks takes The New Murder Member off his feet. Bond then reverses an irish whip. When Jackson comes back, Bond goes for a back body drop. But Jackson slips down from behind and follows up with a reverse DDT! After dragging Bond into the corner, Jackson heads to the outside, climbs to the top turnbuckle and flips off for the Oakland Splash (450 Splash). But Bond rolls out of the way, causing Jackson to crash onto the canvas! After Jackson struggles to get back up, Bond takes him by the leg and throws him down with a dragon screw leg whip! He pulls Jackson back up and delivers a shinbreaker before clipping his knee out from under him! Bond pulls Jackson back up, only to bring him down with Misery (rolling knee bar). The crowd erupts with boos when Jackson taps out.

Chris Bond O || Misery (7:10) || Luke Jackson X

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

The lights start to dim as the beginning strummings of ‘Psychosocial’ start to play and the boo birds begin to chirp instinctively from this audience. After the instrumentals play out on the song...and the lyrics start the suit wearing Seth Iser lumbers through the curtain and there are a few more boos to greet him and he’s got a scowl etched on his face. He ends up seeing a sign directed specifically at him that just reads that Tyler is superior to him and considering the located state it’s not a surprise that sign showed up. Soon enough Iser just walks over to that fan with a scowl on his face inspecting the sign before the fan delivers a vulgar gesture to escalate the situation and he just snatches the sign and rips it up before kicking the remains and people are not happy with this display.

Kris Cruise: Iser hasn’t exactly shown the greatest disposition in the world to begin with...but I think he’s teetering a little bit.

Stephy Auger: I don’t blame him for that. He had what happened last night and his rival Tyler Storm did what he did.

It’s at this point that Iser sees more fans swarming to that fan’s defense shouting more insults and Iser ends up retorting their vulgar gesture by telling them to read between the lines and words you probably wouldn’t want picked up on television before he storms the rest of the way down the ramp. He ends up stomping up the stairs before entering the ring in his usual manner before gesturing with his left hand to cut the music and that intimidating glare of his is more than enough convincing to have him be handed a microphone.

Seth Iser: Do I--

Iser can’t even ask his question and the boos are picking up more momentum and his face is just turning a shade of red from anger but even if he is visibly pissed...he just tries again.

Seth Iser: Do I ha--

At this point Iser’s cut off with more boos from the audience and after the booing they start to let out an ‘Iser sucks’ chant directed at him that’s gaining momentum. This isn’t helping the man’s mood at all as he’s pointing at his wrist as if to tell the crowd to hurry along with their chant. The moment it starts to slow down…

Seth Iser: Do I have YOUR attention now you backwards, uncivilized creitens from this pisshole called Alabama!?

That outburst gets even more boos from the audience but after the loud booing Iser finally has reigned in control of the crowd and of his temper.

Seth Iser: Good. Now to business…

Iser straightens his crooked tie at this point after he composes himself in the face of this humanity that he has antagonized.

Seth Iser: Only the Strong Survive is a day that I’m still not over. Just even thinking about it makes me want to puke all over the damn mat considering what the hell happened. The Rumble obviously didn’t go my way partially because of a certain coward instigating a double team. And the fatal fourway...was won by Tyler Storm.

Iser pauses as the moment he mentions Tyler’s name the arena here in Birmingham, Alabama goes crazy with cheers and there is that sneer from Iser when the eruption of cheers happen.

Seth Iser: I have respect for Tyler Storm...but I wonder how the hell he came from this hideous assbackwards state who prostitute their ‘God’ more than anything when I, an atheist, and a son of a preacher...know more about what Jesus would want than YOU illiterate degenerates. He has class...most everyone who bought this ticket to antagonize me does not.

Soon as Iser does that the boo birds come back at full force toward him as he insulted the audience yet again.

Seth Iser: But Tyler Storm was the one who emerged victorious. And it’s Tyler Storm...who pinned me...in the middle of this damn ring...and he’s the one going on to a future title opportunity...not me. He’s facing a champion in Fujiko Mine who did scream and yell about wanting respect...but it’d be easier to get more people to respect YOU when you don’t post as many food related items as you do. Advice from your elder in the sport on that...but I won’t have that opportunity to really enforce that code...or really pursue the professional ambition that all of us should have…

Iser’s face continues to darken as he still hasn’t gotten over this. That cold glare to the camera almost has murderous intent.

Seth Iser: So tonight...even I break a rule…

Iser lets those ominous words hang for a second as again his face just contorts and gets darker.

Seth Iser: I’ve spoken at great lengths both on Afterburns and here in the ring that there is no room for personal problems in the middle of our sport when we have to be professional. This is Professional Wrestling after all...a job. Not a medium to entertain people...a job. A job I’m really good at. But with no championship here in play for me for the time being...I have to break that rule to settle a personal vendetta against a man who has taken every opportunity the last three years to slander my name...like a gutless coward and he’s had every chance in the world to try to back up his words...he failed. And yet he continues to yap away...and tweet...and vow revenge for how evil I am…

Iser’s eyes just are burning with hatred and vitriol as he’s continuing to glare at the camera and he just walks over and leans over the top rope so they can get a good look at how dead serious he truly is about the matter and if looks could kill...everyone would be dead.

Seth Iser: I’m talking about the man who perpetrated a double team on me until BROOKFORD and I tossed his sorry carcass out on the floor so he can feel defeat at my hands again...yes Owen Gonsalves...I’m talking about YOU.

The fans erupt in cheers when Iser name drops Owen and Iser just immediately moves to cut them off.

Seth Iser: Quiet...quiet…

The fans begin to boo but Iser just continues.

Seth Iser: Quiet I said...quiet…

Every time he says that word his voice does get lower in tone...a little softer but his face more aggressive...morphed in hatred as he just balls his free left hand in fury.

Seth Iser: Owen Gonsalves referred to me as this sick and twisted individual...yet which one of the two of us takes pleasure in breaking fingers?

Iser holds up his left pinkie finger that is still taped up in regards to an incident a while ago with Owen in another continent.

Seth Iser: He did that to me in Australia…

When he announces that part he ends up getting the audience to cheer him.

Seth Iser: I still beat him again however…like I always do…

And then the fans flip from cheering to booing that statement. Iser just brushes the locks of hair from his eyes that have swooped down so again people can get a better idea how deadly serious he is in how bad he hates Owen.

Seth Iser: Hell...which one of the two of us was sick enough to have a barbed wire cricket bat and use that to mutilate people? That wasn’t MY handiwork...oh no...that was the Ultraviolent virus himself doing that. It goes in line with the finger breaking. It’s the same sick obsession of hurting another human being for YOUR entertainment and his own sick gain. He’s one of the biggest damn problems in this entire industry to me enabling another generation of sociopaths to ruin wrestling further and spit on MY legacy. And this is just the PROFESSIONAL end of the problems I have with him!

Iser just shakes his head in disgust for a moment as he tries to reel this all in.

Seth Iser: Yet I’m the sick one? Hah. Not to mention he continues to disrespect me...and Owen f’n Gonsalves is the one trying to smear me? And these legions of idiot sheep we call wrestling fans...who are just as fickle as the people going to church and believing that crap just swoop in and treat Owen’s gospel as word when it’s been proven otherwise. So I’m breaking my personal rule of not going into a wrestling dispute for a personal reason...Owen Gonsalves...front and center. If you’re going to try to assassinate my character and spread your propaganda and lies...you can say it in front of your ‘fans’ and right to my face at this point. Get your ass out here...now.

The crowd wait in anticipation, a few even turn and look up the ramp, but they don’t have to wait long as “Blockbuster Night Part I” by Run The Jewels vibrates throughout the Legacy Arena. The crowd responds with an ovation as Owen Gonsalves waltzes out from behind the curtain, scanning the crowd with a sly smile on his face. He soaks up the reaction and walks slowly down the ramp, his music fading out allowing him to speak as he makes his way down the ramp.

Owen Gonsalves: Ladies and gentlemen, give it up for perhaps the most petty professional wrestler going today, Seth Iser!

The crowd respond in boos at the mock introduction for, perhaps, Owen’s most prominent rival in his career. Gonsalves makes his way up onto the apron and into the ring as Iser sneers at his remark.

Owen Gonsalves: But that’s not important right now, we could talk about how you hired BROOKFORD to eliminate me from the Gold Rush Rumble, because goodness knows you couldn’t actually do it on your own. I had some help from my tag team partner, let’s not lie, but I didn’t pay Tyler to have my back. We COULD talk about your wittle pinky finger issue, we could talk about plenty of the petty things you reach for in order to drag my name through the mud...but we both know that it’s not why we’re here. You couldn’t give a damn about my tweets, you didn’t even have Twitter a few months ago. So what is it Seth? What is it that’s got you so riled up this time? You wanna kick my head in because I called you sick and twisted? Seth, you’ve been called much, much worse by people much higher on the totem pole.

Gonsalves doesn’t back down from the bearded man, instead taking a step forward, the audience eating up every bit of this confrontation. Iser has a twitch in his eye and it was there the moment Owen insinuate something.

Seth Iser: Three things. One...you’re in my personal space.

Iser sneers down at Owen’s incrosion and aggression and when it’s obvious neither are really going to make that back step Iser’s tone just gets more aggressive.

Seth Iser: Two...yeah I’ve been called worse by other people but you’re underestimating the weight of your words considering the position you seem to have gotten yourself in. Somehow you’ve managed to get yourself to the point where your word means far more than it should not just here in the States...but globally so slander from YOU carries more weight to certain young wrestlers than slander from others. Though if you told these people that the moon landing was fake...especially the people in this state...they would believe you as the only book they half read is the Bible and even then that’s wrong.

Another shot at the religious in this ultra religious state gets Iser even more of a negative reaction than before and there are some people trying to start a ‘Petty Iser’ chant but Iser just shuts it down by talking over them.

Seth Iser: ...and third, boy...you really think I can’t get the job done anymore on my own? Have I taken so many pieces from you that it’s taken whatever’s left of your logic that you honestly believe that? Or are you trying to lie it into truth like certain figures like to do these days? Either way...you and I both know I’m still more than capable here bell to bell and there isn’t anyone who possesses my mind. That’s not fiction. That’s a damn fact. And if you really think otherwise...I’ll gladly take another piece in the punishment you are enduring for what you’ve done to the industry because we both know your slump of late...it goes back to me. And I’m not letting you use me to be the key to YOUR freedom.

It’s at this point that Iser finally does take a backstep before he does loosen his tie before it can be used as a weapon because he has a feeling this is going to get physical soon.

Owen Gonsalves: The last time you and I faced, you know I had you beat, you threw your legs up on those ropes and walked out the winner. I can’t take your ability and mind away from you, Seth. You’re one of the best wrestlers in the world, and one of the greatest minds in this business, but your problem is everything else around your name. Hiring other wrestlers to achieve your mission, all the accusations and blaming everyone else for your position but yourself, these are things that are going to keep you from the place you want to be. When all is said and done, you could be the best to have ever done this, you could be the guy who revolutionized this industry, but truth be told, Seth...Your ego and your attitude is the reason that you’ll be remembered for all the wrong reasons, you’ll be remembered as the bitter veteran, you’ll be remembered as the guy who cut all the corners to get ahead, you’ll be remembered as the guy who could’ve been so much more. Yet here you are...every week, with something to complain about, something to whine about, someone to blame.

It’s at this point that Iser finally breaks eye contact with his foe and turns his head to the side as the audience is wondering what is about to happen. Soon enough he then sucker punches Owen and the fight is on! Iser is able to fire off a few more stinging blows with that right hand that back Owen to the corner after securing the advantage with the sucker punch but Owen’s able to switch and finally start fighting back with Iser now in the corner throwing rights and lefts until Iser pulls Owen’s shirt over his head and starts whaling on his head to try to get some more blows in.

Kris Cruise: This has been brewing for months, a rivalry that has spanned over 3 years has once again been re-lit, this time in FGA! They’re beating the absolute hell out of each other, can we get some security out here to separate these two?!

Stephy Auger: Owen deserves every shot to that ugly mug of his! The disrespect he continues to show towards Iser is too much, and it’s clearly caused Seth Iser to snap.

Iser looks like he’s about to throw a heavy knee but Owen grabs Iser’s left hand and pulls on his taped pinkie finger and that jolt of pain makes Iser relinquish the advantage he had before Owen ends up going with a standing clothesline that sends both men tumbling to the outside. Even on the ground both are just intent on swarming each other with punches and kicks though finally the mob of security has finally shown up and the fans boo knowing this physical confrontation is approaching its end. Even as they’re being pulled apart the two are literally kicking and swinging desperately to try to get after one another and many vulgar insults that the censors are beeping out(thankfully) are being shouted.

Kris Cruise: It feels like we’ve only just started one hell of a war between Seth Iser and Owen Gonsalves, this is personal. Very personal.

Stephy Auger: Owen has never beaten Seth Iser. Not in Australia, not in any promotion they’ve been in before this, and he won’t get one over on Seth now. This is the beginning of the end for that stubborn Aussies’ career.

At this point the two are finally being pulled apart after the explosive brawl with them being dragged in opposite directions. At this point Iser just raises his hands shouting at the security to ‘don’t f****** touch him’ at this point but the momentary break gives an opening for both to charge through and the punches begin anew! Another line of security is called as the current line is having a tough time keeping the two rivals apart. Owen and Iser both have grip on one another’s hair with one hand while using their other hand to throw punches as they’re being pulled apart before security finally disengages their grips and make headway in separating the two. Iser ends up throwing his tie up in the air in fury as his suit is a mess.

[FGA Office]

We cut to a shot of the commentary desk where Kris Cruise sits alongside Stephy Auger. Though Stephy is beaming from ear to ear, clearly excited for what’s to come next, Kris Cruise looks— at best— mildly annoyed.

Kris Cruise: Ladies and gentlemen, we’re now going to take you to the streets of Birmingham, Alabama where the “Good Guys”, Evan Envi and Ricky Valero are… indeed… hosting a parade.

Stephy Auger: Oh, way to sell it, Cruise! COME ON, CAMERA JERKS, TAKE US TO THE STREETS!

We fade to a shot of the parade, led by its marching band, now moving through the streets of Birmingham. A wide, crane shot captures the hundreds of yards of headlights kept at bay as the exceptionally large parade moves forth. The “GG” float remains at the front, with Ricky Valero and the FGA Undisputed Champion, Evan Envi (along with an inexplicable life-sized cardboard cut-out of Sadie San Francisco), still perched atop it, playing kazoos along with the marching band at the top of their lungs.

Stephy Auger: What are they playing, Cruise?!

Kris Cruise: Sounds like the marching band’s rendition of Zayde Wolf’s “New Blood”, Lowri Moss’ theme music. Apparently, she’s the Chief’s favorite wrestler.

Stephy Auger: Aside from Ricky Valero!

Kris Cruise: Aside from Ricky Valero.

Evan Envi yells something out to the band that the cameras don’t pick up immediately— but on cue, the band goes silent… before the horn section toward the rear of the parade begins to play a solo rendition of Kim Gordon’s “Murdered Out”, Jimmy Page’s theme music!

Kris Cruise: Wow.

Stephy Auger: There it is! There it is, Cruise!

Kris Cruise: I will give credit where it's due. The Homewood High School band is performing a thankless job and they’re doing it really rather well. Good on them.

Stephy Auger: Thankless?! You’re soulless! It’s a parade!

Kris Cruise: Hold on. I’m getting word that we have a little bit of a disruption backstage with the General Manager.

Stephy Auger: Don't you dare cut away from this! Don’t you dare!

After one final image of Evan and Ricky dancing along with the cardboard cutout of Sadie San Francisco to the horn section’s rendition of Page’s music…

...we abruptly cut to the back, despite Stephy Auger’s vocal protests, apparently in the middle of an exchange between Brandon Macdonald and the reigning FGA World Tag Team Champions, the Chaotics.

Ashlyn De Luca: The hell are you even talking about? Sooo what does this mean for us? What— you don’t need us anymore?

Brandon Macdonald: I don’t. Your services are no longer needed here on Vertigo. We can manage for ourselves and our United States Tag Team Championships will make those look like toys.

Macdonald grins.

Brandon Macdonald: No offense!

Logan Alexander: Well, certainly not to us. We’re not the ones that don’t seem to believe any of the teams here on Vertigo are good enough to beat us, and need to make up their own titles to compensate for that fact.

Logan then smiles back politely at Macdonald. Macdonald looks as if he’s just tasted something sour before clicking his tongue and shaking his head at the Tag Team Champion.

Brandon Macdonald: You don’t get to make fun of my tag team division. You two, along with those ingrates, Smart Style, hogged those championships in some drawn-out episode of Days of Our Lives. My tag teams were working hard every single week and Hadley-- an inferior General Manager-- just allowed it. She couldn’t care less if Vertigo never saw the Tag Team Championships again! Hell, look at what we had to do just to get a glimpse of the Undisputed Championship!

Ashlyn De Luca looks positively unamused, taking a small breath, shifting her Tag Team Championship from her shoulder down to her right hand, never taking her eyes off of Macdonald.

Ashlyn De Luca: So, what, it’s spite then? Because either way, you’re a bitch for this one.

Brandon Macdonald: A-- wh-- excuse me? You two don’t even belong here--

Logan Alexander: No. I’m quite certain that the FGA World Tag Team champions are allowed to be on both brands. Now, perhaps that will officially change now that you have the B-show Tag titles christened. So… after tonight, you won’t have us hanging around. For now though… deal with it.

Brandon Macdonald shakes his head a bit before a bitter laugh escapes his mouth and he runs a hand down his face while he thinks of a response.

Brandon Macdonald: I will let that go. And you’re more than welcome to find a broom closet or something and watch the show unpaid but… let it be known that I really, honestly hope this is our last time dealing with each other.

Ashlyn nods a little, seeming to truly reflect on the GM’s words before casually responding.

Ashlyn De Luca: Suck my [BEEP].

The quip earns a hard blink from Macdonald who shakes his head in annoyance-- and earns, of course, a cheap pop from the Birmingham crowd. Logan laughs at that.

Logan Alexander: Well put.

He then looks back to Macdonald.

Logan Alexander: Enjoy the rest of your night.

The Tag Team Champions move toward the door and Ashlyn shoots a look over her shoulder, narrowing her eyes at the General Manager.

Ashlyn De Luca: Looking forward to seeing these new champs, Mac. Legit.

There’s a coldness about her as she says it, but the Chaotics leave without another word. Brandon Macdonald mumbles under his breath and makes his way across the office to close the door behind the now-departed champions. In the distance, however, comes Ashlyn’s voice again, echoing down the corridor.

Ashlyn De Luca: Hope your night sucks!

The comment earns a small chorus of laughter from Birmingham. Macdonald rolls his eyes and turns to the cameraman, gesturing for him to leave as well. The camera operator sighs and exits the room, turning to face Macdonald one more time before the door is slammed in his face. We slowly fade to black.

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •