Flashpoint (02.10.18)

[FGA Office]

[FGA Office]

"Perfect Insanity" by Disturbed plays as a video package is shown of various FGA grapplers making their way through various entranceways. The video then switches to various FGA grapplers getting kicked, punched, slammed, suplexed and dropped onto the mat....

Come inside and be afraid
Of this impressive mess I've made
If you take a look now you will find

I have thrown away my vice
Done away with paradise
See what's going on inside my mind
Please let me out
Please let me out
Please let me...

After dramatic slow motion shots of various grapplers flipping off the top turnbuckle, the video switches to the Flashpoint logo as the chorus kicks in.



The video fades to an outside shot of the Ford Center in Evansville, IN. We then transition inside to a wide shot of the arena. The camera then pans around, capturing the excited crowd. An FGA chant breaks out throughout several sections of the crowd...

Geoff Penzer: Hello, wrestling fans, and welcome to another installment of Flashpoint! I am your host, Geoff Penzer! We are on the last stop to Grapple Kingdom 2, which will take place in two weeks at the United Center! Many of the key players at Grapple Kingdom 2 will be in action here tonight. Including our Headline Match, which will feature the team of the United States Champion Savannah Taylor and Smart Style taking on the team of Noelle Smith and The Chaotics in Six Man Tag Team action! We’ll be getting ourselves a preview of two title matches in that one. At Grapple Kingdom 2, The Chaotics will be defending their FGA World Tag Team Titles against Smart Style while Taylor will be defending her newly won US Title against Smith!

We’ve got two big singles matches still to come, as well! One of which will feature the former 15 Champion, Brian Stryker, going one on one with the 2017 Frontier Lions Cup winner and current number one contender for the FGA Undisputed Champion, Evan Envi! It’ll be interesting to see the dynamic between those two given Stryker’s recent issues with NEON.

Speaking of “The Queen of Mean,” the reigning 15 Champion will be taking on the reigning Undisputed Champion Johnny Karma in non-title action! I’ve got to wonder what Karma’s mindstate is, given what happened two weeks ago when NEON attacked Cherry Baum backstage. We still don’t know if Envi was truly in on the attack or not. He says he wasn’t trying to have any of that happen. But that wasn’t exactly a flat out denial from The Chief! He’s definitely turned a corner in recent weeks and the fans have taken a liking to the man that once ranked high on everyone’s Most Hated list. However, Envi does have a history of pulling off some outrageous stunts in the past. I want to give him the benefit of the doubt. Hopefully we’ll get some answers from both Envi and NEON at some point in tonight’s broadcast.

Also here tonight, BROOKFORD is back in action! We’ve got two Triple Threat Matches on tap, featuring combinations of the Polychromatic Lion Attack Squad, the Dogs of War and the tandem of Robbie Black and Terrence Tillman! Kendall Kingham is back in action here in FGA after a successful run in SSWA’s Young Guns Cup! We’ll also be hearing from Chandler Scott as he prepares to do battle with an old foe in Sunshine Scandalous Tony Carmine! But right now, let’s send it over into the ring where Melanie Sierra is ready to give the introductions. Mel...

★★★ SINGLES MATCH ★★★
Patrick Jones vs. Greg Samuel

"I Won't Back Down" by Burn Halo fills the arena. At the first drum beats, a spotlight flickers on the entrance way with Jones coming out as the bass starts in a surge of energy. He spins a full circle with his arms stretched out to revel in the crowd's energy. The spin completes at the top of the ramp where Jones drops to a knee with a big, over-handed fist pump.

Melanie Sierra: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Lexington, Kentucky! Weighing in at 235 pounds… PATRICK JONES!!!

PJ takes a moment to enjoy the cheers around him and collect his thoughts before hopping to his feet. He jogs down the ramp, talking to and high-fiving fans, trying to get them as pumped up and ready to go as he is. Jones goes straight from the ramp and jumps onto the ring apron before ducking through the second and third rope, giving another, slower spin just to drink in the environment.

Melanie Sierra: And his opponent, already in the ring… GREG SAMUEL!

Samuel stands tall and shakes the top rope a few times before releasing, turning to face the center of the ring and takes off his sweatshirt

Geoff Penzer: The VoW alumni is looking to keep up his winning ways here on Flashpoint. GM Hadley Herrera is always looking to give a deserving superstar an opportunity. If Jones keeps his level of performance up, there could be some great opportunities in the near future for the veteran.

The bell sounds as Jones and Samuel start things off with a collar-and-elbow tie up. After jockeying for position, Jones gains the advantage with a side headlock. Samuel then hits Jones with a few shots to the ribs before shoving him off into the ropes. When Jones returns, Samuel knocks him down with a standing shoulder block. He then runs into another set of ropes. When Samuel returns, Jones returns to his feet with a kip up and leapfrogs over Samuel. The Maine Attraction continues to run the ropes. When Samuel comes back, Jones brings him down with a deep arm drag. When Samuel returns to his feet, Jones brings him back down with another arm drag. He quickly transitions into an armbar. The ref gets down and asks Samuel if he wants to give up. After he refuses, he gets back to his feet, moves Jones into the near set of ropes and shoves him off into the far ropes. When Jones returns, Samuel goes for a back body drop. But Jones slips down from behind. After Jones applies a waist lock, Samuel runs forward, wraps his arms around the top rope and yanks back, sending Jones flying off his back. After Jones falls to the canvas, he rolls back up to his feet. Samuel then runs over and throws out a clothesline. But Jones ducks and runs into the far ropes. When Jones comes back, Samuel grabs him by the back of the neck, runs and tosses him over the top rope. Thinking that he’s sent Jones crashing to the floor, Samuel turns and throws his arms in the air. But Jones is still hanging onto the top rope with both arms. He then pulls himself over the top rope and back into the ring. Samuel turns around and sees Jones back in, so he runs over at him. Jones is able to lift him up and throw him down with a scoop slam. When Samuel returns to his feet, Jones returns him to the mat with a dropkick. After catching Samuel with a second dropkick, he grabs Samuel when Samuel gets back up and brings him back down to the mat. This time, with a belly to belly suplex. He hooks the leg.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Samuel kicks out.

Jones picks up Samuel and goes for an irish whip. But Samuel reverses, sending Jones into the ropes. Upon his return, he sees Samuel setting up for a back body drop. So he executes a sunset flip. But Samuel rolls through it and then rolls back over into a jackknife pin.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Jones bridges up, turns and delivers a bridging northern lights suplex.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Samuel kicks out.

Jones picks up Samuel and delivers an inverted atomic drop. While Samuel is doubled over, Jones turns and runs into the ropes. Jones bounces off the ropes, dives over and knocks Samuel down with a flying forearm smash. He then steps out onto the apron before scaling to the top turnbuckle. Jones leaps off and connects with a diving elbow drop! He then returns to his feet, heads into the corner and waits for Samuel to get in position. Once Samuel returns to his feet and turns around, the crowd cheers as Jones comes out of the corner and connects with Zoned Out (superkick). He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd cheers when “I Won’t Back Down” hits the speakers.

Melanie Sierra: Here is your winner, PATRICK JONES!

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

Geoff Penzer: Another solid win for Patrick Jones. The VoW alumni is starting to get some momentum. The competition only gets tougher from here. But I’m confidant that a vet like Jones can handle whatever’s thrown at him next.

[FGA Office]

The show cuts backstage to the Polychromatic Lion Attack Squad locker room, where the former tag team champions are getting ready for their matches later tonight. Both are dressed in their ring attire, with Peaches also wearing a sand colored Raleigh Renegades t-shirt over the top as she finishes her stretches.

Dan Herrera: Lets do this.

He says, sternly as he stretches his arms out across his chest. The authority in his voice coming through crystal clear as Peaches looks over at her boyfriend and smiles.

Peaches: They ain’t gonna know what hit ’em after tonight.

Dan Herrera: And they’ll deserve everything they get; after the stunt they pulled last month, attacking us after that tournament match? After the stunt they pulled two weeks ago, attacking Robbie Black and Terrence Tillman.

Peaches: You ain’t gotta convince me. Mark Storm wants to run ‘round here acting like a thug, talkin’ ‘bout them Dogs of War. They better know we bite back.

She gnashes her teeth, almost playfully as Dan breaks out in a chuckle.

Peaches: An’ that Liam, he picked the wrong guy to follow.

Dan Herrera: The blind leading the blind. But right now I don’t care if they want to attack us to make a statement, or whether they’re attacking Robbie and Terrence because they think they’re an easy mark. We’ll take care of business.

Peaches: An’ then…

She pauses, nodding her head as she smiles at Dan again.

Peaches: …it’s right back into title contention again. Show The Chaotics an’ Smart Style, or the rest of them teams on Vertigo why we were the 2017 Tag Team of the Year. Why we held those belts for 133 days.

Dan Herrera: And why we’ll hold them again soon enough. The Chaotics, Smart Style, The New Murder, Reapers in Pride, Firing Squad, Shootcamp, The Keisters, Pedro & Maritza, Dogs of War; they can line up and one by one, we’ll knock them down. And nothing – NOTHING – will stop us from becoming FGA World Tag Team Champions again.

He states, defiantly, gesticulating for emphasis.

Dan Herrera: But first, we solve the problem at hand.

Peaches: The Dogs of War?

Dan Herrera: They can run amok in Japan, they can wreak havok elsewhere. But here, in FGA, we’re not putting up with Mark Storm and Liam Richardson. Here, we’re not cowing to the Dogs of War. We’re not letting them raise hall in that ring! Not on our watch! And tonight they’ll learn we’re not messing around. Whether it’s tag competition or singles competition, the Polychromatic Lion Attack Squad are show them that we. Mean. Business.

The pair bump fists, with Peaches adding a little razzmatazz at the end. But on that note, the Polychromatic Lion Attack Squad leave the locker room, with Dan holding the door open for his girlfriend, as the show cuts to a break.

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

"Short Change Hero" by The Heavy begins to play through the speakers and the lights in the arena simultaneously dim down. Smoke begins to rise from the top of the stage and appearing on the screen above are the following words;

There’s a chorus of boo’s that commence, echoing through the arena as Mark Storm emerges from the mist of smoke, chewing gum calmly as he takes off his shades and stares down at the ring. He can't help but allow his sadistic signature smirk to appear upon his lips as he closes his eyes and spreads his arms out wide, soaking in the boos of the audience. He wears a black suit and tie with a distinctive white rose hanging out of his jacket pocket. He picks the rose from the pocket and brings it to his nose, smelling it as he closes his eyes and nods his head with a smile on his face. He places it back in the pocket before descending down to the ring, behind him, it’s Liam Richardson and that fact alone only elicits more jeers to echo through the arena.

Geoff Penzer: And as you can see ladies and gentlemen, Liam Richardson is wearing that Dogs of War t-shirt that he was given a fortnight ago by Mark Storm, now an official member of the well known Dogs of War stable. In the last couple of weeks, the Dogs of War have been ‘saturating’ the wrestling industry and have been planting seeds in every corner of the world. Be it Mexico, where they won the Guerrero's of Lucha trio’s titles to the United Kingdom, where they just came up short in capturing the UKWF Tag Team titles. Nevertheless, they’ve been leaving a mark everywhere they’ve stepped foot and now they are here in Frontier Grappling Arts with Mark Storm looking like he’s going to take the role as the leader.

He reaches the edge of the entrance ramp and finds someone with a ‘Dogs of War’ t-shirt, a little kid who salutes him with a ‘too sweet’ gesture. Mark looks back at Richardson and the two share a smile before Mark meets the kid’s ‘too sweet’ with one of his own, nodding his head as he continues to make his way down.

This ain't no place for no hero.  
This ain't no place for no better man.  
This ain't no place for no hero  
To call "home."

Geoff Penzer: You can say whatever you want about Mark Storm but what you can’t say is that he hasn’t be captivating since debuting this new persona of his. But through doing that he has made a lot of enemies and turned a lot of heads, specifically speaking - the former tag team champions, Dan Herrera and Peaches. There’s no doubt that they’re going to come up in conversation tonight.

At this point, Storm is by the edge of the ring; allowing a smile to embed on his face before he jumps onto the apron and holds onto the ropes, using them to help himself up onto the turnbuckle. He's grinning from ear to ear, soaking in the rest of the boo’s coming from the audience, shaking his head sideways as he lowers it, before jumping into the ring. Richardson follows but takes a more general approach, climbing up the ring steps and stepping into the ring with a sense of calmness about him. He has his hands behind his back and the Short Change Hero gradually fades. Storm has a microphone in his hand and he approaches the ropes, asking for a steel chair. A member of the staff passes him over one and he snatches it from their grasp, planting it right in the middle of the ring before quickly sitting on it and leaning back on the chair, with one leg resting on the other and one hand behind his back. He chuckles, the boo’s only increasing but you can also hear a few Dogs of War fans in the background, who are happy to see the stable be brought to Frontier Grappling Arts.

Mark Storm: I hear you. There are people out there who are finally starting to get it.

“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

Mark Storm: Like that kid in the front row. He gets it! But I bet that kid was raised right, unlike the majority of the people in the arena. Stick with me kid and I promise you only good things will come to you. But turn on me and become like the rest of these idiots and that’s what you’ll become and you don’t want that, do you?

“NOT OUR HERO - NOT OUR HERO - NOT OUR HERO!”
“NOT OUR HERO - NOT OUR HERO - NOT OUR HERO!”
“NOT OUR HERO - NOT OUR HERO - NOT OUR HERO!”

Mark Storm: Oh put it in your blogs! I’m not here to listen to your crap! We’re not here to listen to any of that. We’re here to tell you a story. A story about how the greatest faction in the world today… took over Flashpoint. And that story is happening right in front of you and I need you people to digest that. I need you to understand that fact and appreciate it! Flashpoint is now Dogs of War territory and as long as it is then we run this joint. Not Johnny Karma. Not your beloved Chandler Scott. Not Savannah Tyler. And certainly not that imbecile, Hadley Herrera. Right now, what you’re witnessing is a revolution that’s going to change the tide and the way things work around here. Liam Richardson, he’s only the first recruit in our Frontier Grappling army and that army is going to just grow and grow and grow, to the extent where it gets bigger than just Flashpoint. We take over Vertigo! We take over FGA!

He pauses, allowing the fans to digest his words as he recollects his thoughts.

Mark Storm: This is happening. And yeah we're gonna get into a lot of trouble along the way and get into people's heads but it has to happen. I've grown tired of being unappreciated. I've grown tired of being underrated. I've grown tired of watching shit slide and having to sit on the sideline but now, I'm at the forefront. I'm the face of this brand and the Dogs of War are the emblem! We've already ruffled a few feathers and I'm expecting to hear from them very soon. But just so they know... Dan & Peaches... Tillman and Black... you guys wanna go to war? Then good, that's all fine by us because our specialty is war. That's what we're known for. But lemme tell you now that this isn't going to go the way that you think. You have this hope and this desire for redemption but that's all it is, hope. And hope is a dangerous thing to have because it can be ripped away from your soul, and everything you dreamt of and worked so hard for, is taken away from you. You're not gonna win if you go to war with us. From Your Hero and Mine!

Dropping the microphone, Storm rises to his feet as Short Change Hero by The Heavy plays through the arena.

[FGA Office]

Sitting alone in his dressing room, Johnny Karma cannot help but keep looking towards a blank space on the bench next to him - the exact same place where Cherry Baum would be sat right now if NEON didn't attack her at the last show

As he looks at the space next to him, Karma wears an expression of sadness as he thinks about not only having to fly solo this evening, but also a tinge of regret at him crossing the line at the last show in his match against Ashlyn De Luca.

Soon, though, that expression once more turns to anger, anger at being made to feel helpless as he watched on to see what NEON had done and his inability to do a damn thing about it, which soon turns to anger towards Evan Envi for not keeping his associates in line - and at that moment the door creaks open as Envi sticks his head around the frame, knocking on the already open door.

Evan Envi: Yooo…

A thunderous mixed reaction surges throughout Ford Center as Envi appears, putting a small smile on his face as he hesitantly steps over the threshold into the locker room.

Evan Envi: Johnny… look. I dunno if you’ve had a chance to cool off or think about stuff since last week but I h--

Completely blanking Envi’s introduction, Karma gets right to the point

Johnny Karma: Get out.

Karma stares directly at Envi, almost as if he's daring him to take a few steps forward to see what mood Karma’s in right now - but Envi holds his ground, raising a hand up as if to placate the Undisputed Champion.

Evan Envi: I didn’t know.

He lowers his hand, taking a small breath before going on.

Evan Envi: I know that doesn’t mean a lot, coming from me, but I just wanted to be upfront, y’know? I’m… I feel bad for what happened to Cherry. You…

Envi looks a little flustered for a moment, trying to find the words.

Evan Envi: I mean, I don’t blame you if you don’t believe me considering the stuff I’ve gotten into, but I had nothing to do with the attack on Cherry. It was… a huge… ridiculous misunderstanding, and I can’t begin to apologize to you-- to her-- enough. But I talked to Ne about it, alright? She understands that she and I were operating on different pages and I’m willing to do whatever--

Once again, Karma doesn't even extend Envi the courtesy of a fair hearing, and shuts him down once again

Johnny Karma: Unless you’re about to tell me that you’ve cut all ties with NEON, you can get the hell out of my locker room Evan.

There is a loud, indistinguishable reaction from Evansville at the suggestion by the Undisputed Champion, but the number one contender raises a hand again, taking a small breath.

Evan Envi: Man, look…

Johnny Karma: No. You--

There is a much louder, considerably rougher knock against the door that cuts into Karma’s words. The tag team champions, having decided to crash this little party, enter the dressing room. Ashlyn steps up beside Evan, while Logan hangs back a few steps behind. Caught off guard, the champion’s face shifts into one of annoyance, but Ashlyn points a finger toward him, speaking calmly despite her look conveying a lack of fondness toward Karma.

Ashlyn De Luca: @$$hole.

Evan looks between Karma and De Luca with a curious expression.

Ashlyn De Luca: Like, I wasn’t mad at first, but then I started really thinking about it-- like really, reeeally thinking about it and that was definitely a dick move. I mean, yeah, we’re out there to win. And nah, you don’t owe me the courtesy of ignoring my injury, but Jesus Christ. As a champion and as a competitor I wouldn’t have gotten a hair up my ass like that. I mean, yeah, I get that things were a little rough considering what went down…

Ashlyn narrows her eyes at Evan for a moment, who sighs, letting his head fall back as he bites his tongue.

Ashlyn De Luca: ...but I went out there to have a match. To have those highlights as a champion competing against a champion. But I mean, if that’s the way you wanna get down in the ring, I’ll keep that in mind for the future. Let’s roll, Logan.

Logan silently nods in acknowledgment. Pausing for a moment to look from Logan to Ashlyn as they begin to turn Karma’s demeanor softens just a tiny bit, as he knows full well he went too far in that match, and after taking a moment to catch his breath he calls out to the pair

Johnny Karma: You know what?  You’re right.  You had the chance to make a name for yourself, but even though you proved you could hang nobody is talking about your performance in the match, instead they’re talking about how I tried to injure you just because…

Rather than finish that sentence, Karma side-eyes Evan to make sure everyone in the room understands where his head is right now. Evan lowers his gaze from the ceiling to meet Karma’s, the Chief’s face visibly upset at this point.

Johnny Karma: So for that I can say I’m sorry, because I was out of line, and while it’s asking too much for you to forgive me for what I did I hope you can understand that there was no…

Before he can finish what he was trying to say, Karma is interrupted by yet another voice, this time the voice of a particularly judgmental Mark Bisley

Mark Bisley: No what? Tendons in her knee?

At this point everyone in the room turns towards the door to see the two members of Smart Style have invited themselves to the party - and that Bisley hasn’t quite finished, speaking over the deafening boos of the Ford Center.

Mark Bisley: You know why I keep saying how this side of the roster lacks discipline?  It's because of stunts like the one you pulled at the last show, where you thought it was better to assault a fellow member of the roster instead of check the wellbeing of your friend as she was taken out backstage.  So what kind of friend does that make you, “champ”?

Ashlyn De Luca: Ohhhhhmygod, I am so tired of your voice. You couldn’t have waited like, six seconds for us to leave the room? Why are you guys even here?

Logan tenses up, jaw clenched, fists clenched since Smart Style walked in, eyes drifting, burning from Bisley to Majima.

Evan Envi: Why are any of you in here? I was guts-deep in a convo.

Mark Bisley: A conversation?

Bisley seems to ponder this for a moment

Mark Bisley: I thought having one of your…

Bisley actually goes so far as to use finger quotes

Mark Bisley: …”friends” take somebody out backstage was more your level, Evan.

As soon as Bisley says this the entire room stops to glare in his direction for not so much crossing a line but going for the full Evel Knievel by flying over the line on a rocket-powered motorbike - and, having finally heard enough from the various people who have invited themselves into his locker room, Karma rockets to his feet and glares at Bisley

Johnny Karma: Right, you, stand over there.

Karma gestures in Evan’s direction, and after a brief moment of attempting a protests Bisley decides to just do what he says, so he and Majima head over towards Evan - but Karma stops them.

Johnny Karma: Not the pair of you, just the one who doesn’t know when to shut up..  

Bisley looks to Majima, who gives the faintest hint of a shrug before he walks over to stand by Karma, while Bisley walks towards Envi and attempts to make small talk.

Mark Bisley: So...how’s it going?

Evan Envi: What? What is this? What’s going on?

Ashlyn De Luca: Ah. Segregation rears its ugly head yet again.

Logan rolls his eyes in response.

Logan Alexander: As though it solves anything. Guess it’s a better measured response at least than what we got two weeks ago.

He then glances towards Karma.

Johnny Karma: You know what?  Logan, I tried to make good, but if you’re not going to simmer down you can stand over there too.

Logan glances over towards Evan and Bisley. He then looks back towards Karma.

Logan Alexander: No.

Evan sarcastically raises his brows, “shocked” at Logan’s response, but still looking annoyed by the lack of attention from the Undisputed Champion.

Evan Envi: Wow. Who could’ve ever seen that not working?

Ashlyn De Luca: What is this, daycare? Look, I’m not standing in some group so I can get in position for an anvil to get dropped on me or something.

Karma looks visibly annoyed and Evan throws his hands up again, still ignoring Bisley.

Evan Envi: Look. Did I pick a bad time?

Logan glances towards Evan.

Logan Alexander: Yes. NEON has made a problem for you that you really don’t need right now and that makes it a bad time for you.

Evan Envi: That’s why I’m here. To clear this up. To fix this.

Karma’s eyes widen in anger at Evan’s assumption. He turns, opening his mouth to speak, but out of nowhere--

Shintaro Majima: I may not have been responsible for what happened, but I am sorry for what happened to you.

Majima says it to Ashlyn, who slowly turns to meet his gaze. Bisley responds to Majima’s show of concern with a “What the hell?” look on his face, which Majima completely ignores, though the chatter in the room stops as Ashlyn blinks hard, looking at Majima in confusion.

Ashlyn De Luca: Fu..what?

Shintaro Majima: I may not have been respon--

Ashlyn De Luca: No, I heard you. Just. Dude. Suck my ass. Don’t you dare try to act like you didn’t want this.

Johnny Karma: I r--

Evan Envi: I was just tryna have a sensible conversation to be honest. I’m just out here.

Logan Alexander: Right… one powder keg of emotions, one confused about what their partner is doing, two who don’t listen. Sensible conversation?

Evan Envi: What are you murmuring about?

Ashlyn De Luca: He said--

Having finally had enough, Karma brings down the hammer on everyone in his locker room

Johnny Karma: ENOUGH! OUT! EVERYONE!

Karma’s face grows red and all eyes fall onto him. Envi shakes his head a little, throwing his hands up, glaring at everyone in the room.

Evan Envi: See what you guys cause? I’m here trying to make amends, Johnny is here trying to forgive Neon and me for wh…

Johnny Karma: ”Forgive”???  Are you out of your…?

Karma is genuinely speechless at Evan’s suggestion and finds it hard to process the words that came out of the number one contender’s mouth. Stunned. He shakes his head a little, mouth slightly agape.

Johnny Karma: Are you serious, or do you honestly think a quick “sorry” comes close to making up for what happened?

Envi blinks a few times. He looks around before his gaze settles back on Karma.

Evan Envi: No. Man. I was here to…

He trails off, closing his mouth, eyes narrowing as he looks at the Undisputed Champion. Karma shakes his head slowly, a single, humorless laugh escaping his mouth. His lips part a bit as he thinks of what to say to Evan, but the cold gaze seems to scream enough at the Chief. The two share the uncomfortable gaze for a few seconds before Envi sighs, looking down, nodding to himself a bit.

Evan Envi: Alright.

He looks up at Karma and backs away, shrugging.

Evan Envi: Alright.

With a glare toward the Undisputed Champion, Evan pivots, walking out of the room without another word. There is silence in the locker room before Ashlyn shakes her head, scoffing, walking toward the door with her arms crossed.

Ashlyn De Luca: You’re all still @$$holes.

She glares at Smart Style before walking out of the room, Logan just a step behind, shooting a look of indifference toward the occupants of the room before they depart. Bisley looks toward Majima and then toward Karma. He opens his mouth to say something, but a glare from Karma silences him. Bisley shrugs and shakes his head, marching out of the room as well. Shintaro Majima exhales, being the last to exit, saying nothing and showing no emotion. Karma walks to the door of the locker room, slamming it shut as we cut to black.

[FGA Office]

★★★ SINGLES MATCH ★★★
BROOKFORD vs. Bean Bands

“I’m Bad" by LL Cool J plays as Nate BROOKFORD waste no time making his appearance known. He power walks down to the ring not bothering to savor the less than pleasant reaction from the crowd. He slides under the bottom rope, he pops up.

Melanie Sierra: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Manhattan, New York! Weighing in at 265 pounds! He is the “Problem Solver” BROOKFORD!!!

Opting to head over to the turnbuckle nearest the announce table, he leans back with his arms crossed. The ref checks Nate for any foreign objects as the man who wants to be referred to as BROOKFORD keeps his eyes locked on the entrance awaiting his prey for the night.

Melanie Sierra: And his oppo-

The bell sounds as BROOKFORD knocks Bands down with a kesagiri chp to the back of the neck.

Geoff Penzer: Brookford’s wasting no time! He’s still PO’d about Sage Clark costing him a shot at the US Title!

BROOKFORD reaches down, grabs Bands by the hair and pulls him back to his feet. BROOKFORD pulls his arm back before delivering a backhand chop that knocks Bands down. The problem Solver reaches down, peels Bands off the mat, grabs him by the wrist and connects with a short-arm elbow smash that drops Bands down to a knee. BROOKFORD pulls him back up by the hair, hooks both arms and unleashes a series of trapping headbutts. After the last headbutt, BROOKFORD turns Bands around, grabs him from behind and hurls him across the ring with a release German Suplex! BROOKFORD marches over, yanks Bands back up, grabs him from behind and hurls him towards the center of the ring with another german Suplex! BROOKFORD marches back over, yanks up Bands, runs into the corner and slams him face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning Bands around, BROOKFORD sends him slumping down in the corner with Mongolian Chops. The Problem Solver steps back towards the center of the ring, then runs forward and squashes Bands with a cannonball in the corner. He then picks up Bands, lifts him up and drapes him across the top rope. BROOKFORD then brings him down with PROBLEM… SOLVED (dragon screw neck whip). The boos continue as he makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd boos when “I’m Bad” hits the speakers.

Melanie Sierra: Here is your winner, BROOKFORD!

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

Geoff Penzer: Brookford resumes his path of destruction here on Flashpoint with that dominating victory over Bean Bands! Brookford was a bad man before. But now? He’s a man that’s out on a mission and I’m not talking about solving other people’s problems. I’m talking about getting payback on Sage Clark! With Clark scheduled for action later on tonight, if I’m that young man, I’m keeping my back pressed against the wall as soon as I step out of the locker room. I wouldn’t be secure enough with keeping my back turned with a man like Brookford roaming around! Still to come, we’ve got Six Man Tag Team action featuring the United States Champion and the World Tag Team Champions! In our main event, Johnny Karma and NEON go one on one in non-title action! But coming up next, it’s our first of two Triple Threat matches as “The Assassin” Liam Richardson the Third takes on “The Boss” Dan Herrera and “Terrific” Terrence Tillman! We’ll be right back!

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

Returning from commercial break, the cameras open up in a stretch of hallway backstage. Far removed from the usual borderline chaos that comes with the usual interview area, a production trunk comes into focus. Leaning up against said trunk was the frame of the reigning United States champion Savannah Taylor. Dressed in her usual black and pink ring attire, her robe sits off to her right and her United States championship rests proudly to her left. Her arms are folded across her chest as she looks up at the ceiling.

Savannah Taylor: I don’t get it. It seems like everywhere I go, no matter what I do, people choose to turn a blind eye. They turn a blind eye to pretty much everything I’ve done and everything I’ve accomplished. Not just here in FGA. I’m talking everywhere I go. People like to discredit me because of who I have previously associated myself with. People like to not take anything I say or do seriously. And you know something?

She pushes herself away from the trunk and places her hands on her hips.

Savannah Taylor: It is really, REALLY starting to get on my nerves. How hard do I have to work to make these people see that there is actual TALENT here? How far do I have to go to make people see me as more than just a glorified lackey for Izzy? The more that I got to thinking, the more I realized…..the general opinion doesn’t matter. To quote one of the best characters from one of my favorite shows, the lion doesn’t concern himself with the opinions of the sheep. I’m not going to keep going out to the ring and putting my body on the line just for some meaningless praise and adulation from people who could care less about whether I work here or not. I’m going to keep on doing what I am doing what I am doing….because I can.

She reaches over and picks up her championship belt and drapes it across her shoulder.

Savannah Taylor: My way of doing things obviously have worked because I’m holding onto this. Not only that, but from now until the end of time, my name is in the history books. It is MY name that is going to be forever linked with this championship. I’M the one who gets to write the history with this belt and that is something that no one will be able to take away from me. Ever since I won this, people haven’t been giving me the credit that I deserve. Again, that doesn’t bother me…..well, much at least. I do however have a question, though. If people are so up in arms about me winning the United States champions, then how come no one stepped up to prevent it from happening? Why didn’t any of the so called favorites do anything about it? Where was Dan Herrera? Where was Brian Stryker? What about Kendall Kingham? Not one person was able to prevent me from winning this. Mark Storm came the closest, but even he wasn’t enough. You know who else wasn’t enough? Noelle Smith.

A small grin creeps onto the Las Vegas native’s face.

Savannah Taylor: Noelle Smith is the personification of having more guts than brains. If Noelle had even ONE functioning brain cell in that head of hers, she should have realized that challenging me wasn’t the wisest thing she could have done. But hey, I admire her tenacity and willingness to stick her neck out for the fans. It is going to make it that more enjoyable when I kick her head square off of her neck at Grapple Kingdom Two. You see Noelle, you are going to become very familiar with me over the next few weeks leading up to Grapple Kingdom. You are going to learn that life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, or sparkles in your case. You’re going to learn that sometimes, the hero falls and the villain is the one who is standing tall. You and your newfound associates in The Chaotics are going to find that out later tonight. Because there is no chance of you three overcoming the tandem of myself and Smart Style. If I were you, I wouldn’t even show up. It is only going to end up badly for you.

With that, Savannah reaches over and picks up her robe and drapes it over her other shoulder. She gives a mock salute to the cameras as she walks off, leaving the scene to cut elsewhere.

[FGA Office]

We cut to the backstage area where Evan Envi stands in the designated interview area backstage next to Amanda Johnson. Evan is pacing a bit, arms crossed while Amanda looks on curiously with the microphone in hand.

Amanda Johnson: Evan..?

Evan Envi: You know-- I try. I do.

Envi stops pacing for a moment, not quite looking at Amanda, but gaze drifting up toward the ceiling, a bitter expression on his face.

Evan Envi: I wanted to go in there and make good with Karma, y’know? Like, I know what Neon did to Cherry two weeks ago was horrible, alright? I mean-- gah-- of course. Of course I get that. I--

Amanda Johnson: So you had absolutely nothing to do with the attack on Cherry Baum? Nothing at all?

Evan rubs at his eyes before sliding his hands down his face.

Evan Envi: Why would I want that? I’ve barely spoken four words to Cherry.

Amanda Johnson: Well.

Amanda, somewhat uncomfortably, offers a shrug.

Amanda Johnson: Some could say it would be an effective way to get into the head of the Undisputed Champion. While you wouldn’t be the first people to lay hands on Cherry Baum, the violence alone--

Evan Envi: Stop.

Evan takes a breath, shaking his head a little.

Evan Envi: Neon thought she was helping. And I know what that sounds like. But she did. And yeah, she did it at the expense of Johnny Karma and Cherry Baum. But it was a misunderstanding. She thought it was what I wanted her to do-- and it wasn’t. I mean, I know it’s not an excuse, but Neon and I are a team and we would go to great lengths to make sure the other is successful but she jumped the gun. She’d admit that.

Amanda Johnson: Well, why doesn’t she?

Evan Envi: What?

Amanda Johnson: If she made a mistake and she needs to make up for it… then why doesn’t she admit that, like you said?

Envi sighs, shoulders slumping weakly. For a few seconds, he seems to be searching his mind for a response but Amanda raises a hand, posing another question.

Amanda Johnson: And is she expecting you to return the favor in some way when you face Brian Stryker tonight?

The audience roars at the notion of the match. Evan narrows his eyes, gaze set straight ahead as he ponders the question.

Evan Envi: You really don’t think that highly of us, do you, Amanda?

Amanda Johnson: Honestly, I thought it was a valid question. She and Brian Stryker haven’t necessarily gotten along in recent weeks and with Neon going one-on-one with Johnny Karma in tonight’s main event, it just seems likely that--

Evan Envi: I know I joke with Stryker on Twitter and we don’t have the best past but I respect him. I mean, I like Brian Stryker and I wouldn’t put him in harm’s way, even if Neon asked me to. I don’t dig your insinuations, man. I’m already doing my best to prove that I’m not the person everyone thinks I am-- I don’t need your help piling onto it.

Amanda Johnson: I know. I know. I’m just trying to do my job.

?: Well, get better.

Boos resonate throughout the arena as the other half of Camp Envi, the FGA 15 Champion, “The Queen of Mean” Neon walks into frame, title on her shoulder, giving the belt a fond look before she rolls her eyes toward Amanda.

NEON: Babyboy’s gonna handle his business with Brian Stryker tonight. I don’t need help with Stryker like you would loooove to suggest, Amanda. Because despite Brian Stryker, I am a dominant champion. Despite Brian Stryker… Neon remains.

Neon smirks at the interviewer, ignoring the thunderous boos echoing through the Ford Center.

NEON: But tonight, I’m gonna handle some business with Johnny Karma. Not Evan’s business. But my business. And if Evan reaps the benefits of whatever happens to him then…

Neon smiles at Evan, raising a hand to his chin before leaning forward to give him a soft kiss on the lips to another chorus of boos from Evansville.

NEON: ...then I guess it was just meant to be.

She rolls her eyes to Amanda again, giving the interviewer a once-over.

NEON: Tell Cherry we miss her. Ciao.

Neon walks out of frame and Evan takes a breath, giving Amanda a long gaze… and a small nod.

Evan Envi: Later.

He turns, walking out of frame as well. Amanda watches the two leave, shaking her head a bit before the scene fades.

[FGA Office]

★★★ TRIPLE THREAT MATCH ★★★
Liam Richardson III vs. Peaches vs. Terrence Tillman

As the beginning horn sound that starts “Forever” blasts through the arena, Terrence Tillman runs out to the stage. Running back and forth shouting and waving his arms in the air motioning for the fans to get on their feet. He stops in the center and stretches his arms out to either side shouting “It’s Time” at the top of his lungs. Tillman starts his march to the ring with a smile on his face, slapping hands of the kids in the audience letting out an occasional “Wooo!” or “Yeah baby!”

Melanie Sierra: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Orlando, Florida! Weighing in at 230 pounds! He is “Terrific” TERRENCE TILLMAN!!!

Tillman rolls into the ring under the bottom rope and runs to each corner pointing to the fans, clapping his hands, and feeding off the crowd reaction.

Geoff Penzer: The Leader of The T-Unit has seemingly found himself aligned with “The Bullet” Robbie Black. The two men reconnected after coming up together in the Lion’s Den Fighting Championship developmental system. Now here on Flashpoint, they’ve found themselves with targets on their backs from the FGA outfit of the infamous Dogs of War.

"Shit Shots Count" by The Drive By Truckers begins playing as Peaches bursts through the curtain with her arms outstretched to each side. She spins around as she slowly moves down the aisle, soaking in the crowd's cheers before picking up the pace. As Peaches climbs up the ring steps she removes her flannel shirt, tossing it to a fan in the audience, before finally vaulting over the top rope as she waits for the match to start.

Melanie Sierra: And his opponent, from Fayetteville, Georgia… PEACHES!!!

Geoff Penzer: Peaches and Dan Herrera, just like Tillman and Black, have found themselves on the receiving end of the Dogs of War’s wrath. But in two weeks at grapple Kingdom 2, both teams will get their chance at revenge when the Dogs of War take on both the Polychromatic Lion Attack Squad and Tillman & Black in a Triple Threat Tag Team Match! That one should be electric!

Playing through the arena is Arsonist Lullabye by Hozier and the lights in the arena dim. Emerging from the back is Liam Richardson who stands at the top of the entrance ramp, his face vacant from any emotion. He looks up at the heavens, allowing jeers to echo through the arena.

THE KINGDOM'S ASSASSIN!

Appearing on the screen behind him are the following words which only encourage more boo's to echo through the arena but Liam doesn't care. He isn't even acknowledging the fans as he walks down the entrance ramp, his hands by his side and his eyes fixated on the four sided ring. He stops, chewing his gum and looking at the fans nearby, turning his head away from them and continuing his circle around the ring.

Melanie Sierra: And their opponent, from Westminster, England! Weighing in at 180 pounds! He is “The Assassin” LIAM RICHARDSON THE THIRD!!!

Boo's echo through the arena as Liam leaps on the apron, entering the ring and rushing to the ropes, bouncing off of them and heading to the opposite set. He then goes over to his designated corner, lowering himself as he holds onto the ropes and waits for the match to begin.

Geoff Penzer: Liam Richardson the Third was successful his last time in action. This time, however, it’s a Triple Threat Match. After what he and his cohort Mark Storm have done to these two, I wouldn’t be shocked to see them go after Richardson to start things off.

The bell sounds as Peaches runs over and nails Richardson at the start of the match with punches to the face. She then takes Richardson by the wrist and irish whips him over to Tillman, who knocks him down with a dropsault. As Richardson rolls to the outside, Peaches turns and runs into the far ropes. When Richardson turns around, the crowd cheers when Peaches leaps through the ropes and knocks him down with a suicide dive!

Geoff Penzer: Peaches is all over Richardson at the start of this one!

Peaches picks up Richardson and slams him face-first onto the apron before rolling him back inside the ring. While Peaches is still on the outside, Tillman quickly drops down and makes the cover on Richardson.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Peaches slides back in and breaks up the pin with a double ax handle across the back.

Geoff Penzer: Tillman tried to steal the pin there from his fellow LDFC alum.

Peaches brings Tillman back to his feet and nails him with a knife edge chop. Tillman comes back with a knife edge chop of his own. Peaches then nails Tillman with another knife edge chop. Triple T comes right back with a knife edge chop of his own. He nails Peaches with another knife edge chop… and another chop… and another. He then takes Peaches by the wrist and goes for an irish whip. But Peaches reverses, sending Tillman into the ropes. When Tillman returns, Peaches leapfrogs over him. Tillman continues to run the ropes. When he returns, Peaches knocks him down with a running butt bump! She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Richardson drags Peaches off of Tillman.

Richardson wraps his arms around Peaches’ waist and pulls her back up to her feet. He lifts her up for a German Suplex when Peaches counters with a back elbow to the face. After Richardson drops her back down, Peaches nails her with three more back elbows to the face. After performing a standing switch, Peaches hops onto Richardson’s shoulders from behind. Before Peaches can flip back and deliver a reverse hurricanrana, Richardson’s pushes her off his shoulders. After she lands on her feet in front of him, Richardson shoves her over towards Tillman, who turns her around with a roundhouse kick. Richardson then turns her back around with a roundhouse kick of his own. While Peaches is dazed, Tillman knocks her down with a savate kick. Richardson then runs over and knocks him back into the corner with a barrage of elbow strikes. He then takes Triple T and sends him into the opposite corner with an irish whip. Richardson runs across the ring to attack, but Tillman counters with a back elbow to the face. Tillman turns to face the turnbuckles and goes for the DDTripleT (springboard moonsault into an inverted sitout DDT). But as soon as Triple T lands on the middle ropes, Richardson delivers a hard shove to the back, sending Triple T tumbling down hard to the floor.

Geoff Penzer: My God, did you hear the impact of that landing?

When Richardson turns around, Peaches runs over, hops onto him and sends him flying out of the corner with a monkey flip. Peaches steps out onto the apron and scales to the top turnbuckle. Once Richardson returns to his feet and turns around, Peaches leaps off and brings him down with a diving neckbreaker! The cheers continue as Peaches steps back out onto the apron. After scaling back up to the top turnbuckle, she jumps off and connects with a diving elbow drop! She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Tillman rolls back in, yanks Peaches off of Richardson and tosses her through the ropes.

Geoff Penzer: Triple T with the save!

After Peaches lands on the apron and pulls herself up, Tillman runs over and knocks her off with a discus elbow strike. While Peaches lays out on the floor, Richardson grabs him from behind and delivers a bridging German Suplex.

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

Richardson picks up Tillman and whips him into the corner. He then runs across the ring and connects with a clothesline. Richardson follows up with multiple clotheslines in the corner until he gets exhausted. Once he gets his second wind, Richardson pulls Tillman from out of the corner and sends him into the opposite corner with an irish whip. Richardson runs across the ring and connects with a running European Uppercut. After pulling Tillman from out of the corner, Richardson lifts him up across his shoulders, runs across the ring and delivers a rolling fireman’s carry slam. Richardson pops back up to his feet. As soon as he springboards onto the middle ropes, Peaches hops onto the apron and catches him with a rope-assisted gamengiri! She then scales back to the top turnbuckles and crouches down. Once Richardson and Tillman get back to their feet, Peaches stands up on the top turnbuckle, jumps off and brings both grapplers down with a diving crossbody block!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Tillmn and Richardson both kick out.

Geoff Penzer: Peaches nearly got ‘em!

Peaches, Tillman and Richardson all get back to their feet. When Peaches runs at Richardson, he throws out a palm thrust. But Peaches ducks and runs into the ropes. When she comes back, she sees Richardson run past her into the ropes. So Peaches puts on the brakes. When Peaches turns around, her and Tillman knock Richardson down with a double clothesline. Richardson returns to his feet and gets knocked back down by another double clothesline. Once Richardson gets back up, Peaches and Tillman whip him into the corner. Tillman runs over to attack. But Richardson knocks Tillman back with a boot to the face. Peaches runs over to attack, but she gets knocked back by a back elbow to the face. Richardson then runs from out of the corner and knocks them both down with a single leg dropkick! He then picks up Tillman, hooks his arms from behind and delivers a release Tiger Suplex. Richardson gets back to his feet, picks up Peaches, hooks her arms from behind and delivers a release Tiger Suplex. After returning to a vertical base, Richardson pulls up Tillman and sends him into the corner with an irish whip. The Dogs of War member charges across the ring into the corner to attack. But Tillman counters with a back elbow to the face. While Richardson is dazed, Triple T turns to face the turnbuckles before bringing him down with the DDTripleT! The cheers continue as he makes the cover.

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

Peaches dives over and breaks up the pin.

Geoff Penzer: Peaches with the timely save!

Peaches picks up Tillman and goes for an irish whip. But he reverses, sending her into the ropes. When Peaches returns, Tillman throws out a kick to the midsection. As soon as Peaches catches his foot, Triple T counters with a dragonwhip kick! After Peaches turns over and gets up on a knee, Tillman runs over and knocks her down with a Shining Black! The cheers continue as he makes the cover.

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

Tillman pulls up Peaches and doubles her over with a boot to the midsection. He then heads into the ropes. When Tillman comes back, he knocks Peaches down with the Terrific Kick (scissors kick). Tillman takes Peaches and drags her over towards the corner. He then turns to face the turnbuckles before connecting with the Terry-sault (double jump moonsault)! Tillman pulls Peaches over and makes the cover.

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

The crowd boos when Richardson dives over and breaks up the pin.

Geoff Penzer: How close was that!?

Richardson picks up Tillman and goes for an irish whip. But Tillman reverses with an irish whip feint into the Top-Tier-Takedown (leaping reverse STO)! The cheers continue as Tillman pushes him over and makes the cover.

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

The crowd boos when Richardson gets his shoulder up.

Tillman picks up Richardson, drags him over towards the corner and follows up with a jumping stomp to the chest before stepping out onto the apron. The crowd cheers as Tillman climbs up to the top turnbuckle. Just after he flips off for the Downfall (450 Splash), the crowd gasps when Richardson rolls out of the way. Instead of crashing and burning on the canvas. Tillman lands on his feet before performing a forward roll. Triple T rolls back to his feet, turns and runs over towards Richardson to attack. But Richard is able to bring him down with a spinning sitout spinebuster! While Tilman clutches the back of his head, Richardson pulls Tillman back to his feet, lifts him up and plants him with For Our Majesty (modified brainbuster)! The boos continue as he makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd boos when “Arsonist Lullabye” hits the speakers.

Melanie Sierra: Here is your winner, LIAM RICHARDSON THE THIRD!

The boos continue as Liam Richardson III gets his arm raised in victory.

Geoff Penzer: Liam Richardson the Third picks up yet another victory! This time over Peaches and Terrence Tillman if Triple Threat action.You’d have to imagine this win gives Mark Storm confidence heading into his own Triple Threat Match later on tonight. Still to come, we’ve got Johnny Karma one on one against Neon in the Main Event. But coming up next, Kendall Kingham returns to action against “The All-American” Sage Clark!

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

The camera fades in as Amanda Johnson is seen backstage of Flashpoint. Standing next to her is former 15 champion Brian Stryker. He is wearing his Eagles super bowl champions Zach Ertz jersey as he doesn’t look all too pleased this evening.

Amanda Johnson: Ladies and Gentlemen, my guest at this moment is Brian Stryker. Brian, over the past few weeks Neon has decided to make a statement against you after you, in her eyes, insulted her and her winning the 15 championship. She interfered in your match in the US title tournament and now she is facing Johnny Karma in the main event. It has been a rough few weeks for you in FGA. How are you handling it all?

Brian thinks for a moment as he rubs his face in thought.

Brian Stryker: How am I handling it? How am I handling it? Frankly I’m pissed off. I’m pissed off that I am not the Pride Champion after I was attacked backstage at Vertigo by a man who refuses to meet me face to face. I’m pissed I was not granted a rematch that I earned by defending my 15 title 4 times! I’m pissed that the person who succeeded me as 15 champion cost me my chance at being the first US champion. I’m pissed that after 15 years in this business, people still think it’s a good idea to get in my way and interfere with my work.

Brian Stryker: I was top dog here on Flashpoint. Karma may be the Undisputed champ but I was the exclusive. I was the 15 Champion. I was gonna bring Pride back to this brand and take it to another level. But it was taken from me. Now, I’m a pauper. I’m back at the bottom and I have to climb back and I will climb back, I always do. Neon, this message is for you. You made the first mistake and that’s pissing me off. By this point I’ve already proved my worth as the 15 champion by defending it TWICE. You have yet to make your first. And you better pray to whatever deity you prefer because I will not hesitate to snatch that title away from you.

Brian Stryker: I’m the Father of Flashpoint. The Dad of Pro Wrestling. The Timeless one. I’m Brian Freakin’ Stryker. I made a career out of being the survivor. And I will not be denied my payback. They say a hungry dog runs fastest and Amanda, this dog right here? He’s starving. It’s only a matter of time before he gets that steak. And tonight? Evan Envi is the appetizer. THAT’S how I’m handling things.

Brian stares at Amanda before marching off as Amanda turns back to the camera.

Amanda Johnson: Strong words from the former champ. Back to you Geoff.

[FGA Office]

Previously Recorded

We get a shaky close up of Kendall Kingham's face via a handheld cellphone promo as she's entering the Ford Center earlier in the day. Beaming ear to ear, she enthusiastically greets the views.

Kendall Kingham: Sup Evansville? Sup everyone at home? Excited to be bringing The Flashpoint Zone here to the home of the Fighting Evans for a match with a real up and coming talent, Sage Clark! But uh, this video isn't actually directed to him, and I promise there's a good reason for that.

Her expression shifts slightly.

Kendall Kingham: I wanna have a little one on one with BROOKFORD.

She perks back up a bit, trying her best to be congenial.

Kendall Kingham: Hey BROOKFORD, congrats on the good start here in the Flashpoint Zone. But that's not why I wanted to talk to you, the reason is, I noticed you have the whole Problem Solver thing, hired gun deal that you haven't really been given a chance to do so far here. Sooo, I think I have a way both of us can be helped, because I kinda have a problem.

Kendall grimaces at the thought.

Kendall Kingham: See my problem is that I get the feeling there's a pretty good chance you might try to do something to mess up my match with Sage tonight. Distract him, attack him, whatever; and I get that you two have beef. I'm not trying to take sides here, because it's none of my business and it's up to you two to settle. But that's the thing--

A beat.

Kendall Kingham:-- it's none of my business, nothing to do with me and I'd like to keep it that way. I've worked really, really hard to get myself to a point where I feel like I'm starting to finally build myself as a wrestler. It's my first match back since the Young Guns Cup, and I want that match to simply be me testing my skills against and hopefully overcoming a super talented, young, really athletic guy. Maybe this sounds selfish or whatever, but all I want to do is show off the work I've put in when I step in that ring, and it'd really suck if I ended up a uh, background piece thingy to your guys' beef.

She stops walking, allowing the video to focus in a bit better on her earnest expression.

Kendall Kingham: You guys will have all the time in the world to beat each other up coming up, but I'm just saying right now I'll pull out the checkbook, credit card, PayPal whatever way you want to get your service fee for you to solve my problem and stay away from this match. If not, it'll suck but I'll deal with it. Just figured I'd give you a chance to be the business dude you're supposed to be.

A shrug before she perks up again, displaying an almost spastic amount of energy.

Kendall Kingham: Well hmu if you want! Later everyone, it's gonna be a sick show!

End Feed.

[FGA Office]

★★★ SINGLES MATCH ★★★
Kendall Kingham vs. Sage Clark

“Hero” by Skillet plays as Sage Clark makes his way down to the ring.

Melanie Sierra: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Malibu Beach, California! Weighing in at 214 pounds! He is “The All-American” SAGE CLARK!

Geoff Penzer: Sage Clark has successfully made it to the ring in one piece. But I’ve got to wonder if he’ll be leaving the arena the same way. Brookford is borderline obsessed with getting even with Sage Clark. We thought it was going to happen last show. Will The Problem Solver strike this week in Evansville?

The lights drop, and multi-colored ones start strobing around as "Professional Griefers" starts up to the cheers of the crowd. Kendall Kingham emerges into sight wearing her regular gear, sunglasses, and an airbrushed jacket.

Kendall bounces on the balls of her toes before making her way down the ramp, slapping a few hands along the way.

Melanie Sierra: And his opponent, from Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan, New York… KENDALL KINGHAM!!!

She hops up on the apron, runs to an unoccupied corner, and climbs to the second turnbuckle. Raising a fist to a pop from the crowd, she slingshots herself inside, and removes her jacket and glasses as the lights come back on while her music fades.

Geoff Penzer: Kendall Kingham has spent the past few weeks advancing through the Young Guns Cup, making it all the way to the Final 4! Not only did Kingham represent the Flashpoint Zone, but she got her name out there and proved herself against some of the best 25 and under wrestlers in the world! I speak for GM Hadley Herrera and the rest of Flashpoint when I say that we’re all proud of what she’s done!

The match begins with Kingham and Clark shaking hands before locking up. Kingham quickly gains the advantage with a side headlock before transitioning into a hammerlock from behind. The ref asks Clark if he wants to give up. When Clark refuses, Kingham applies more pressure to the hold. Clark cringes in discomfort before leaning forward and reversing into a hammerlock of his own. Kingham then reaches back with her free arm, grabs Clark by the back of the neck and brings him down with a jumping snapmare. She then turns and runs into the ropes while Clark returns to his feet. When Kingham comes back, Clark throws her down with a hip toss. After Kingham gets back up, Clark throws her back down with a bodyslam. When Kingham returns to her feet, she gets blasted with a knife edge chop. Clark then hits her with another knife edge chop… and another… and another. He then takes Kingham and goes for an irish whip. But Kingham reverses, sending Clark into the ropes. When Clark returns, Kingham brings him down with a japanese arm drag. Clark gets back to his feet and gets brought back down with another japanese arm drag. Kingham turns over and transitions into an armbar. The ref gets down and asks Clark if he wants to give up. But he refuses. After battling back to a vertical base, he reaches over with his free arm and initiates a rope break by grabbing a hold of the top rope. The ref gives Kingham until the count of five to break the hold.

Ref: ONE… TWO…

Kingham breaks the hold and steps back towards the center of the ring. Clark shakes off his arm as he makes his way off the ropes. The two grapplers circle the ring before coming forward and locking up. After jockeying for position, Clark ducks under, goes behind Kingham and places her in a waist lock. Kingham reaches down and tries to pull his arms from around her waist. But it’s to no avail. He then hoists her up before throwing her down with a waist lock takedown. Clark then spins around across Kingham’s back and goes to place her in a front facelock. But Kingham rolls out from under and reverses into a grounded hammerlock. The ref gets down and asks Clark if he wants to give up. When he refuses, Kingham delivers a handstand into a falling knee drop to the hammerlocked arm. The ref keeps checking in with Clark and asks him if he wants to give up. But again, Clark refuses. He slowly battles his way back to a vertical base before backing Kingham into a nearby corner. He then reaches out and hooks his free arm around the top rope, which causes the ref to enforce another rope break.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE…

Kingham releases the hold. Clark put his arms in the air as he slowly turns around. When he finally faces Kingham, he wrenches her arm. Clark pulls Kingham from out of the corner and delivers another arm wrench. The ref checks in with Kingham and asks her if she would like to give up. But she, too, turns down the chance. She then rolls forward, leans back, kips up, reverses into an arm wrench of her own and yanks Clark over towards her. After placing Clark in a Thai Plum, Kingham hits him with short elbows, knees and uppercuts to the body. The last knee drops Clark down to all fours. Kingham immediately drops down and places Clark in a front chancery. The ref gets down and asks Clark if he wants to give up. But The All-American refuses once again. After battling back to a vertical base, he slips out and throws Kingham down with a fireman’s carry takedown. When Kingham gets back to her feet, Clark delivers a side headlock takedown. Kingham then turns Clark over into a pinning combination.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Clark shifts his weight back over and cinches in the headlock. The ref goes over and asks Kingham if she wants to give up. But she refuses. After she gets back to a vertical base, Clark brings her down with a snapmare and follows up with a dropkick to the back of the head. She makes the cover.

ONE!
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.
TWO!
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.
Kingham kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: This has been a pretty solid back and forth between these two youngsters so far. They both have promising futures ahead of them on Flashpoint. But which one will take the next step? Which one will pull ahead of the other?

Clark picks up Kingham and whips her into the ropes. When Kingham returns, she sees Clark setting up for a back body drop. So she stops to go and put him in a Peruvian Necktie. But before she can fully apply the hold, Clark moves her forward into the ropes and grabs the middle rope, forcing a rope break.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE…

Kingham breaks the hold. Clark takes advantage of Kingham’s positioning and delivers multiple shoulder thrusts to the midsection before grabbing her and tossing her through the ropes and out onto the apron. Clark turns and steps away to favor his arm. When he turns back around and heads back over to Kingham, she tackles him down with a slingshot spear. She makes the cover.

ONE!
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.
TWO!
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.
Clark kicks out.

Kingham picks up Clark and sends him into the corner with an irish whip. She runs into the corner for an attack. But Clark ducks and dumps her over the top rope. Instead of crashing to the floor, Kingham lands safely on the apron. When Clark turns around, he throws out a roaring elbow. But Kingham ducks, grabs his arms and drops off the apron, delivering an armbreaker across the top rope. Clark howls in pain as he turns and staggers away from the ropes. Kingham then slides back in. Once Clark turns around, she runs over and nails him with a Knee Trembler to the side of the head. Kingham pushes him over and makes the cover.

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

Geoff Penzer: Kingham nailed him with that knee to the side of the head. But it only got a count of two! We’ve got tons of actions still to come but right now, we’re watching two of Flashpoint’s youngest go at it!

Kingham picks up Clark and goes for an irish whip. But Clark reverses, sending Kingham into the ropes. When Kingham returns, she goes for a crossbody block. But Clark catches her in mid air and follows up with a rib breaker. He makes the cover.

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

Clark picks up Kingham and delivers a vertical suplex. He turns over and makes the cover.

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

Clark takes Kingham and whips her into the ropes. When Kingham returns, Clark throws her down with a powerslam. He then steps out onto the apon before climbing to the top turnbuckle. Once Kingham gets back up, Clark leaps off and knocks her down with a missile dropkick. He makes the cover.

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

Kingham gets her shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Clark is starting to really feel it! Can he pull off the upset here tonight?

Clark picks up Kingham and whips her into the corner. The crowd cheers when he then runs, jumps and connects with a Stinger Splash. Clark takes Kingham and whips her into the opposite corner. He then runs, jumps and goes for another Stinger Splash. This time, Kingham moves out of the way, causing Clark to crash into the turnbuckles. As Clark stumbles back, Kingham runs over and brings him down with a double knee armbreaker. She brings Clark back up, grabs him by the arm and brings him down with a single arm DDT. She then turns over and places him in The Tombs (grounded top wristlock). The ref gets down and asks Clark if he wants to give up. When Kingham pulls back on the hold, Clark verbally submits. The ref then calls for the bell.

The crowd cheers when “Professional Griefers” hits the speakers.

Melanie Sierra: Here is your winner, KENDALL KINGHAM!

The cheers continue as Kingham gets her arm raised in victory.

Geoff Penzer: Kendall Kingham gets the W in her return back to action in a few weeks. We’ll looking forward to seeing what’s next for her here on the Flashpoint Zone!

As Kingham walks out the aisle, “I’m Bad” blares throughout the arena. The cheers are quickly droned out by the boos as BROOKFORD bursts through the curtain.

Geoff Penzer: Oh my God. OH MY GOD! Sage, get up!

BROOKFORD continues his march down the ramp. He doesn’t pay any attention to Kingham, who he walks right by. He doesn’t take in any of the negative reaction from the crowd. He keeps his eyes locked solely on Clark.

Geoff Penzer: Sage, leave while you still can.

As soon as BROOKFORD rolls into the ring, the ref rushes over and puts his hands on BROOKFORD’s chest. BROOKFORD looks down at his chest, then back up at the official. He then grabs the ref by the neck with both hands and tosses him to the side. The ref goes flying over the top rope and lands shard on the outside.

Geoff Penzer: OH NO!

BROOKFORD begins to stalk Clark, who is crawling over towards the corner. Unbeknownst to him is that the Problem Solver is in the ring. After he pulls himself up in the corner and turns around, his eyes widen with shock as BROOKFORD comes barreling in and connects with a running clothesline. He then pummels Clark with a furry right hands that sends him slumping down in the corner. The crowd boos as BROOKFORD proceeds to deliver mudhole stomps to Clark’s chest. He then applies a foot chokee while pulling down on the top rope. After about ten seconds, BROOKFORD lets go to go run into the far ropes. When BROOKFORD comes back, he nails Clark with a running facewash. He then pulls his kneepad down before running back into the far ropes. When BROOKFORD returns, he bashes Clark in the face with a running knee facewash.

Geoff Penzer: This young man is helpless. HELPLESS!

Clark’s lip has been busted open. BROOKFORD leans forward and shouts at Clark. He asks Clark, “You regret costing me the US Title now?” When Clark doesn’t respond, BROOKFORD slaps him across the face. He yells at Clark, “Do you regret costing me the US Title now, boy!?” When Clark doesn’t respond, BROOKFORD slaps him even harder. A sickening thud echoes throughout the arena from the slap. BROOKFORD reaches down, yanks up Clark by the hair and carelessly flings him through the ropes and to the floor. The Problem Solver drops to his back and slips to the outside. He pulls up Clark, runs forward and slams him face-first onto the steel steps. He pulls Clark's head back and yells, “Do you regret costing me the US Title now?” When Clark doesn't respond, BROOKFORD slams him face-first onto the steel steps again. He pulls Clark’s head back and tells him, “Your Grandma gave you poor advice, boy” before slamming him face-first onto the steel steps again. BROOKFORD pulls his head back and asks him, “You’d rather go surfing with Ymir instead of facing me like a man?” before slamming him face-first onto the steel steps again… and again… and again… and again… and again. Boos engulf the arena as a barely consicous Clark slumps down next to the steel steps while BROOKFORD walks away. The Problem Solver scans the fans in the front row that are booing him, giving him thumbs down and middle fingers. He turns back around, charges down ringside and bashes Clark with a running knee strike to the face while the back of his head was against the steel steps.

Geoff Penzer: Dammit, BROOKFORD! Enough’s enou-

BROOKFORD turns and motion towards Geoff Penzer. The lead announcer quickly flips off his headset and takes off. BROOKFORD eyes Penzer as he retreats to safety before turning his attention back to Clark. He reaches down and pulls back the protective matting to expose the concrete floor underneath. He picks up Clark, lifts him up and throws him down with a folding powerbomb onto the exposed concrete. Without letting go of Clark, BROOKFORD hoists him back up… and throws him down with another folding powerbomb onto the exposed floor. Again, the Problem Solver doesn’t let go. He hoists up Clark, turns and powerbombs him through the announce table! The crowd eurpts with boos as Clark’s motionless body lays amongst the debris. He leans over Clark and tells him, “I’ll call Ymir and let her know what hospital you’re staying in.”

BROOKFORD scans the crowd before turning and marching away, leaving a destroyed Clark in his wake...

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

Fade into a Chinese restaurant. The camera pans at the foot of the table that’s filled with Chinese people on both sides talking up a storm. Everyone is having a good time as the table is filled with different types of Chinese food. In the center of the table is a decorative piece of a orchid flower. In the background you can hear the people talking, mixed with the sound of string instruments playing a Chinese sounding tune. At the end of the the other side of the table sits one man that isn’t talking to someone or is interacting with all the other guest. He just looks off in the distance and pays no mind to the men and women that surround him at the table. Custom made suit, golden watch, and black sunglasses. This Chinese man of mystery just doesn’t belong in this picture as the camera slowly moves towards this character. A male voice speaking Mandarin is played over the video. Luckily enough there’s a closed caption of English on the bottom of the screen for all the American audiences watching.

Closed Caption: "China has a population of over 1,400,000,000 people. A majority are in hard labor in factories or with farmland. Some are in business. Others in the marketplace. And to protect our homeland, our military keeps us safe. While everyone in China has their roll, none is that of being a professional wrestle. Think about it. Have you ever seen a Chinese wrestler before? It’s because it’s always been looked down upon. But in recent years as western influences has slowly grabbed a foot hold of Chinese culture, wrestling has slowly been accepted as a way of entertainment. Along with MMA, wrestling has been a hot market for the Chinese people. Unfortunately, there wasn’t a Chinese wrestler to champion in China. So myself and a handful of others were sent out to learn and come up with our own techniques to represent China and one day bring our knowledge back to China and help train the next generation of wrestlers."

By now the camera is close enough now that the image of the Chinese man is only shown. Taking off his sunglasses he looks into the camera and begins to speak in Mandarin. Like before, there’s closed caption text on the bottom of the screen.

Closed Caption: "I hear FGA is the place where the best come and wrestle. I want to see if this is true. I want to see if the hype is for real or if it’s just like all the other wrestling companies out there.....nothing but hype and talk with a roster that’s mediocre. So here I am. Qiang Chen, The Golden Bull is coming to FGA. Don’t waste my time FGA because I will gladly take this company....and spike it on their head."

With that, the scene ends as the Chinese individual stares a hole into the camera.

[FGA Office]

Geoff Penzer: Ladies and gentlemen, we are back. During the break, Sage Clark was attended to by medical personnel before taking being transported to a local medical facility. We wish nothing but the best for Clark and hope that it’s not too serious. I have no idea what in God’s name has gotten into BROOKFORD. I understand he’s upset. I understand that he wants payback. But that was uncalled for! It was over the line! Way over the line!

★★★ TRIPLE THREAT MATCH ★★★
Mark Storm vs. Dan Herrera vs. Robbie Black

"Take Your Place" by The Underachievers plays through the speakers and emerging from the back is Robbie Black, who nods his head as the fans rise from their seats and applaud him. "The Bullet" stands on the top of the entrance ramp and he shoots his imaginary gun towards the ring before swaggering his way down, high-fives to a few of the audience members before he slams the apron with his fists and climbs the ring steps, hoisting himself up onto the second rope on the outside of the ring.

Melanie Sierra: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Detroit, Michigan! Weighing in at 236 pounds! He is “The Bullet” ROBBIE BLACK!

He looks around, a smile on his face before entering the ring, lowering his stance as he poses for the fans.

Geoff Penzer: It’s going to be hard transitioning from what we just saw moments ago to another match but that’s what we’re going to have to do. This is our second of two Triple Threat Matches this evening. Earlier tonight, Liam Richardson the Third defeated Peaches and Terrence Tillman. His partner, Mark Storm, is going to try and follow his performance. But Robbie Black definitely has other plans. He hasn't forgotten about Final Frontier or what happened two weeks ago.

...Spoken...
"May I remind you again, this is a dream, and in dreams, you can do anything you darn please!"

When the first bass drum thumps, Dan pulls the curtain back and walks out from behind the curtain. He gives a head nod to the fans before heading towards the ring as a spotlight stays on them.

My knuckles have turned to white.
There's no turning back tonight.
Kiss me one last time

Melanie Sierra: His opponent, now residing out of Raleigh, North Carolina! Weighing in at 200 pounds… DAN HERRERA!

As Dan makes his way to the ring, Dan slaps hands with the fans on one side of the entrance-way. Dan gets to the ring and walks up the stairs. He swings around the ring post and ducks between the top and middle rope. Once in the ring Dan walks over showing his taped wrists to the referee who nods at him and sends him to his corner. He grabs the ropes on either side of the turnbuckle and leans in with his head down prepping himself for the match to begin.

Geoff Penzer: Dan Herrera has vowed to put the Polychromatic Lion Attack Squad back to the top of the tag team contenders list. But first, he and Peaches have a score to settle with the Dogs of War. They’ve got their chance in two weeks at Grapple Kingdom 2 in tag team action. But right now, Herrera will get his chance to get his hands on Storm in just a few moments.

"Short Change Hero" by The Heavy begins to play through the speakers and the lights in the arena simultaneously dim down. Smoke begins to rise from the top of the stage and appearing on the screen above are the following words;

YOUR HERO, AND MINE

Boo's echo through the arena as Mark Storm emerges from the mist of smoke, chewing gum calmly as he takes off his shades and stares down at the ring. He can't help but allow his sadistic signature smirk to appear upon his lips as he closes his eyes and spreads his arms out wide, soaking in the jeers of the audience.

Melanie Sierra: And their opponent, from New York, Brooklyn! Weighing in at 225 pounds! Your Hero, and Mine.. MARRKKKK STORMMMMMM

He begins his walk down the entrance ramp, with a leather coat completing his attire as he comes down the entrance ramp.

This ain't no place for no hero.  
This ain't no place for no better man.  
This ain't no place for no hero  
To call "home."

At this point, Storm is by the edge of the ring; allowing a smile to embed on his face before he jumps onto the apron and holds onto the ropes, using them to help himself up onto the turnbuckle. He's grinning from ear to ear, soaking in the rest of the boo's coming from the audience, shaking his head sideways as he lowers it, before jumping into the ring.

Taking off his leather coat, he hands it to the ring announcer before walking over to his designated corner and hoisting himself up onto the second ropes, a smirk upon his lips as he holds his arms up; his theme song slowly diminishing.

Geoff Penzer: We heard Mark Storm earlier on in the program. He stated that Flashpoint is now run by the Dogs of War and that if it’s a war that Tillman, Black and PLAS want, then it’s a war that they’ll get. He’s also stated that the Dogs of War won’t just stop with Flashpoint. Soon, they’ll take over Vertigo and the entire FGA.

The crowd erupts with boos when Mark Storm gives both of his opponents a finger gun taunt with both hands. Dan Herrera and Robbie Black turn to each other before turning back to Storm and doubling him over with a boot to the midsection. They then take Storm and whip him into the far ropes with an irish whip. When Storm returns, they throw him down with a double back body drop. The crowd cheers as Storm arches his back upon impact. When Storm gets up and turns around, Herrera and Black run over and deliver a double clothesline, sending him over the top rope and to the floor.

Geoff Penzer: Storm has just been removed from the equation for the time being.

With Storm cleared from the ring, Herrera and Black turn to each other and begin trading blows. The crowd cheers as both men continue to exchange punches until Herrera gains the upper hand. The Boss moves Black into the corner with a flurry of punches. He then takes Black and sends him into the opposite corner with an irish whip. Herrera then runs across the ring before connecting with a lariat. He then brings Black from out of the corner and whips him into the far ropes. Instead of bouncing back, Storm yanks Black down to the canvas before dragging him to the outside. After hitting Black with a back kick to the midsection, the crowd boos when Storm springboards onto the apron, flips back with a moonsault and brings Black down with an inverted sitout DDT!

Geoff Penzer: How about that move from Mark Storm!?

When Storm climbs back up onto the apron, Herrera hits him with a shoulder thrust through the ropes. He then grabs Storm, runs into the corner and slams him face-first into the ring post. The crowd cheers as Storm flies off the apron and lands on the floor. Herrera drops down to the mat and rolls to the outside. He goes over and puts the boots to Storm before pulling him back up. He then goes for an irish whip. But Storm reverses, sending Herrera down ringside and crashing into the guardrail. Storm then runs down ringside to hit Herrera with a clothesline. But Herrera ducks and dumps Storm over the guardrail and into the crowd.

Geoff Penzer: LOOKOUT!

Herrera reaches over the rail, pulls up Storm and brings him back to ringside with a vertical suplex. He then pulls Storm back up before shoving him back into the ring. After Herrera slides back in, he pulls Storm back up before whipping him into the far ropes. When Storm returns, Herrera scoops him up across his shoulders and brings him down with a Samoan Drop. He turns over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
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TWO!
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.
T-NO!

Storm gets his shoulder up.

Herrera picks up Storm, grabs him from the side and brings him down with a russian leg sweep. He then gets back up before heading into the ropes. When he returns, he delivers a leg drop to Storm. Herrera gets up and heads back into the ropes. When he returns, he hits Storm with a second leg drop. Herrera gets up and heads back into the ropes. When Herrera returns, he delivers a third leg drop to Storm. The cheers continue as he makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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.
Storm gets his shoulder up.

Herrera picks up Storm and doubles him over with multiple knees to the midsection. He then hoists Storm up from the side before throwing him down with the Final Word (pumphandle slam). Herrera drops down and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
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.
Black dives over and breaks up the pin.

Geoff Penzer: The fall was broken up by Black.

Black picks up Herrera, runs and tosses him through the ropes and out onto the apron. He then marches over and puts the boots to Storm. He then pulls up Storm and whips him hard into the corner. As Storm staggers from out of the corner, Black scoops him up from the side and delivers a sidewalk slam. He hooks the near leg for the cover.

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

Storm gets his shoulder up.

Black picks up Storm and whips him into the ropes. When Storm returns, Black lifts him up and throws him down with a spinning spinebuster. He rolls across Storm and hooks the near leg for the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
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.
TH-NO!

Herrera drags Black off of Storm and turns him over into the Texas Cloverleaf.

Geoff Penzer: Forced Retirement! Herrera’s got Black locked in the center of the ring!

The crowd cheers while Herrera keeps Black locked in his signature finisher. The ref gets down and asks Black if he wants to give up. But Black refuses. Upon hearing the refusal, Herrera leans back to increase the pressure on the lower back. Black cringes in pain. Half of the crowd tries to rally behind Black while the other half cheer on Herrera. Herrera continues to keep the hold applied until Storm cracks him in the back of the head with a bicycle knee. Once Herrera drops down to a knee, Storm runs into the ropes. When he returns, the crowd boos when he cracks Herrera in the face with a bicycle knee. He makes the cover.

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

Herrera gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Herrera’s not finished! He’s still in this contest!

Storm pulls up Herrera, lifts him upside down and plants him with a Tombstone Piledriver! He makes the cover.

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

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

Geoff Penzer: Storm can’t believe it and neither can I! How did Herrera get his shoulder up after the Tombstone!?

Storm picks up Herrera. The crowd gasps when he scoops Herrera up across his shoulders to set up Dystopia (Go To Sleep). When Storm turns around, Black hits him with a high-impact backhand to the face. After Herrera falls off of Storm’s shoulders, Black takes him by the wrist and turns him inside out with the Elimination Lariat (high-impact short-arm lariat). He pulls Storm over and makes the cover.

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

Storm gets his shoulder up.

Black picks up Storm and goes for an irish whip. But Storm reverses, sending Black into the ropes. When Black returns, Storm goes for a back body drop. But Black slips down from behind. After turning Storm towards him, Black hits him with a jumping high kick, then a roundhouse kick, followed by a savate kick that knocks him down. He brings Storm back up before whipping him into the ropes. When Storm returns, the crowd cheers when Black brings him down with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. He then brings Storm back to his feet once again, lifts him up and throws him down with a sitout crucifix powerbomb.

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

Herrera dives over and breaks up the pin.

Geoff Penzer: Herrera with the timely save!

Herrera picks up Black, irish whips him across the ring, follows him into the corner and delivers a spinning wheel kick. Herrera returns to his feet, climbs up onto the middle ropes, grabs Black and brings him down with a Tornado DDT. He makes the cover.

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

Black gets his shoulder up.

Herrera picks up Black, leans forward, lifts Black up across his shoulders, turns and throws him down with the Wit’s End (double leg slam). He makes the cover.

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

Black gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Oh so close!

Herrera picks up Black and whips him into the ropes. When Black returns, Herrera throws out a lariat. But Black ducks and runs into the far ropes. When he comes back, Herrera throws out a discus elbow strike. But again, Black ducks before continuing to run the ropes. When Black returns, Herrera goes for a spear. But Black counters with a single leg dropkick! He then picks up Herrera and places him in an inverted front facelock to set up an inverted DDT. Out of nowhere comes Storm, who brings Black down with a Sling Blade (and forces Herrera down with the inverted DDT from Black at the same time). The boos continue as he makes the cover on Black.

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

Black gets his shoulder up.

Storm goes over and makes the cover on Herrera.

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

Herrera gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Another nearfall for Storm! The action has been wild in this one!

Storm picks up Black and whips him into the corner. He then goes over, pulls up Herrera and delivers an irish whip across the ring. As Herrera approaches the corner, Black turns him around with a boot to the face. While Herrera staggers away from the corner, Storm runs over and motions for a bicycle knee strike. But Herrera leaps up and spears him out of the air to an explosion of cheers from the crowd! When Herrera returns to his feet and turns around, Black runs out of the corner to attack. But Herrera throws him across the ring with a belly to belly suplex. Once Black gets back to his feet and turns around, Herrera runs across the ring, lunges at Black and delivers a spear that lands Black near the corner! The cheers continue as he picks up Black and sits him down on the top turnbuckle. Herrera grabs a hold of Black, lifts him off the top turnbuckle, turns, walks towards the center of the ring and brings him down with the Walking Papers (Muscle Buster)! When Herrera gets back up and turns around, Storm quickly scoops him up across his shoulders before hitting him with the Dystopia. The boos continue as he makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd boos when “Short Change Hero” blares throughout the arena.

Melanie Sierra: Here is your winner, MARK STORM!

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

Geoff Penzer: The Dogs of War have gone 2-0 here tonight after Storm picks up the win! They’ve got all the momentum heading into Grapple Kingdom 2 in two weeks!

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

We cut to the backstage area where we see the Tag Team Champions, Ashlyn De Luca and Logan Alexander of the Chaotics for the second time of the evening, now completely in their gear as they step out of their locker room.

Ashlyn De Luca: It’s not that I don’t trust her. We just don’t talk anymore. I mean… I dunno. It was just this awkward thing that happened years ago. We never really made up, I guess.

Logan Alexander: It shouldn’t really be much of a matter of trust. We have a common cause for one night. I think we should be able to work together for that long without serious issue. None of us want to lose.

Ashlyn De Luca: Mm. Yeah…

The discussion trails off as Ashlyn’s head turns toward someone out of frame while pulling the dressing room door shut behind her. Her expression could best be described as neutral, and she lets out a huff of breath close to a sigh before she talks.

Noelle Smith:  I’m sorry if I missed any text messages, I uh… lost my phone and it took me awhile to get a new one. I didn’t miss Ricky ripping on me on Twitter enough to rush.

Ashlyn De Luca: Word..

Ashlyn nods a little, looking at Noelle for a few moments before gesturing toward her softly.

Ashlyn De Luca: So are we good?

Noelle looks up at the ceiling, though her gaze pauses on Logan before she speaks.

Noelle Smith: It’s been too long not to… I mean I can’t hold on to that past, not anymore. It’s not worth it. So just know, I don’t have anything inside against you. Him I don’t even know, and he’s never done a thing to me so… even if you are still, I promise that I’ve got your back for this match.

She sighs and then looks right at Ashlyn.

Noelle Smith: Just watch for Savannah, she’s going to want to make a statement. That’s what people like her do best.

Logan Alexander: She and Smart Style. But it’s not like the three of us are lacking in that regard either. And I’ve certainly had my fill of being someone else’s message to the roster.

Noelle Smith: ...I hear that. Worked way too hard to be reduced to someone’s lazy post it note.

Ashlyn nods a bit as she looks toward Noelle. Ashlyn’s expression indicates that she has a lot to say. She bites her tongue behind her lips for a moment.

Ashlyn De Luca: I hear you.

She continues to look at Noelle, with a look best described as inquisitive. She blinks a few times and gestures between herself and Logan.

Ashlyn De Luca: We got your back, partner.

Ashlyn smiles a bit as Logan turns in the direction of the hall, only pausing for his partner. The audience grows loud, knowing another comment is coming.

Ashlyn De Luca: Uh. Just. Try to keep up out there.

She gives Noelle a small smirk as Noelle lightly rolls her eyes, and shakes her head.

Noelle Smith: Just make sure you and baby boy there keep up with me.

Logan Alexander: She will. I’ll be ready with support if either of you get too far ahead.

Ashlyn De Luca: That’s the spirit, Big Guns.

Ashlyn hard winks at Noelle as she follows Logan, walking off down the corridor.

Ashlyn De Luca: Later.

The stare between the two lasts for a moment before Ash turns, breaking the gaze first. Noelle’s look remains neutral as she watches the Tag Team Champions depart, lips parting with a tiny sigh as we fade to black on her focused expression.