Flashpoint (11.11.18)

[FGA Office]

[FGA Office]

With the pair of them making their debuts in the Frontier Lions Cup this evening, the two members of Smart Style are walking through the corridors of the Agganis Arena with purpose in their stride, knowing full well what’s at stake this evening

Mark Bisley: It’s good to know that we’re on the side of the Frontier Grappling Arts roster that thinks about who will be headlining shows one, two or three years from now instead of the side that’s thinking the route to success is putting all their eggs into the baskets of people who brought home The Big One once so they might do it again, because that proves once again that the so-called flagship program that is Vertigo is starting to worry at how often Flashpoint shows them up. It’s almost as if Brandon Macdonald didn’t have a clue what he was doing back in the draft, am I right?

Instead of answering the question, or even recognising that a question had been asked, Majima maintains his focus

Mark Bisley: Of course it isn’t as if the Flashpoint bracket is entirely made up of new blood, after all I’m facing the guy who’s responsible for Ms. Herrera having to create another title, so I suppose they put him in the tournament to avoid another few weeks of his navel-gazing about how it’s so hard to be a wrestler, as if nobody else has ups and downs and get dumped on their heads on a regular basis but him. Maybe the last part’s the problem.

Resisting the urge to snicker at his own joke, Bisley moves the subject onto his partner’s match

Mark Bisley: Meanwhile you’re going up against Tristan Ambrose, who is probably telling anyone within hearing range about why he deserves the most respectful kind of respect from people who should respect the respectable career he’s had, because apparently only his accomplishments are worth talking about.

Shintaro Majima: I think you may be taking my opponent lightly.

Bisley looks perplexed at his partner’s comment

Mark Bisley: Lightly? If anything I think he takes himself far, far too seriously. It’s not good for somebody to get so worked up about the lack of respect they feel they receive, because that’s the sort of thing that breeds a thousand Logan Alexanders.

The mere mention of Logan Alexander’s name causes Majima’s eyes to narrow as his voice discovers new depths

Shintaro Majima: He needs to discover a better role model.

Sensing he’s fired his partner up, Bisley can’t contain his glee

Mark Bisley: That’s the spirit, ShiMa, get a little fire inside you that you can unleash on the unfortunate soul standing across the ring from you, because if he thought you were a heavy-hitter before…

Before he can finish vocalising his thought Bisley is literally knocked off his stride when he bumps into somebody walking the opposite way, which clearly irks him

Mark Bisley: Well excuse…

Once Bisley turns around to face the source of the unwanted distraction he sees Johnny Karma looking back at him, and stood next to him is Cherry Baum rubbing her arm at the point of impact where Bisley bumped into her – and the second he sees this, Majima is very quick to look to smooth things over

Shintaro Majima: Our apologies.

Karma looks to Majima, then to Bisley, before looking to Cherry

Cherry Baum: It’s fine.

Karma looks back to Bisley, then to Majima, then back to Bisley

Johnny Karma: Make sure you look where you’re going in future. There’s a few people who might be less forgiving if you bumped into them running around here.

Looking to get back to what he was doing, Karma nods to Majima to accept his apology before looking in Bisley’s direction for perhaps half a second longer than seems courteous before he and Cherry turn and begin to walk away – but Bisley isn’t quite finished

Mark Bisley: Don’t worry, I know exactly where I’m going. I’m coming for that nice-looking spot you’ve made for yourself, and the first thing on the agenda is going through you tonight.

Upon hearing this Karma stops in his tracks and mutters something under his breath before he turns around, taking a few steps towards Bisley and making sure he’s keeping eye contact with him every step of the way

Johnny Karma: I know what you’re thinking, you’re thinking that you’ve arrived because not only have you got a spot in the Frontier Lions Cup, you saw that you’re drawn against me and think I’m only there to lay down and help you jump a few rungs of the ladder.

Bisley doesn’t respond verbally, instead he smugly looks in Karma’s direction as if he’s telling him that, yeah, that’s exactly what’s going to happen tonight

Johnny Karma: Then again, you’re the guy who told everyone how the Dynamic Duos was the first step to you getting hold of every title in this company, and how’s that working out for you? Or maybe I should ask your partner, who’s a lot closer to a Grand Slam than you are.

The second Karma drops that truth bomb on Bisley the smugness is slapped out of him, although at the same time Majima seems mildly amused by it, which causes Bisley to raise a finger to remonstrate – but Karma’s having none of it

Johnny Karma: I wasn’t finished yet, because there’s plenty more I can say to you, not least the fact I can count the singles matches you’ve had in this company on one hand and still have plenty of digits left, yet you think it’ll be a cakewalk to make it to the next round.

Mark Bisley: And you don’t?

As soon as he interrupts Bisley gives Karma one hell of a condescending look

Mark Bisley: Don’t flatter yourself, J-K, I know you’ve been playing out a narrative in your head about how you overcome Flashpoint’s best and brightest before winning this tournament just so you can try and avenge your loss to Chandler Scott – but you and I know you’re disappointed that’s the only option you have, because that loss to Evan Envi has been eating you up inside and you’ve been hoping that you can win this tournament just for the chance to walk out on Vertigo and demand your title back, but with Jimmy Page beating him for the title you can’t do that and that one crumb of hope you’ve been clinging to is gone, and you’re just the guy who lost Flashpoint the world title.

Bisley continues aiming a condescending look at Karma, almost as if he’s daring Karma to deny a word he said, and the few seconds of silence between the two cause a smirk to make its way across Bisley’s face as he knows he hit Karma where it hurts

Mark Bisley: That’s the difference between you and me: I’ve been a champion and not only did I turn back every single opponent, it took a crooked GM stripping me of the title because his hand-picked challenger couldn’t get it done. You, on the other hand…

Bisley taps a couple of fingers to his temples

Mark Bisley: …it’s so easy for your opponents to get in here, and no matter how many times you say it won’t happen again it always does, as I’m sure your companion will tell you…or maybe not, because if she isn’t a weakness that gets exploited her mouth is talking you into all kinds of trouble.

Majima aims a disapproving sideways glance at his partner for that blatant low blow

Cherry Baum: Watch your damn mouth!

Mark Bisley: Relax, Cherry, before you start accusing me of something I never did and drag your pal J-K down a paranoid rabbit hole.

Having heard enough Karma steps up and gets in Bisley’s face, but as quickly as Karma gets in Bisley’s face Majima interjects to get between the two, which leads to Cherry grabbing Karma’s arm to make him back off – all of which gives Bisley reason to once again smirk in Karma’s direction

Mark Bisley: Looks like I’m the latest person living rent-free in your head, Johnny.

Maintaining eye contact with Bisley, Karma takes a sharp intake of breath through his nose as he thinks of a way to respond that doesn’t feature the words “son”, “of”, or “a” in close proximity to one another, and after a moment he shakes his head but he appears to be smiling

Johnny Karma: Tell me, Bisley, what good has running your mouth done you so far? The entire tag division hates you…

Karma quickly looks over to Majima

Johnny Karma: …not you, just your partner…

Karma returns his attention to Bisley

Johnny Karma: …and all your talk of moving on to bigger and better things is just that: talk, nothing more. If you think you’re an elite competitor, why not show everyone you’re an elite competitor instead of tell everyone you’re an elite competitor, because all you’re doing is giving people a reason not to listen to you, and when they’re not listening to you they’re certainly not paying attention to anything else you’re doing. You know why I am where I am? Because I showed people what I can do, consistently, to the point I don’t have to tell anyone what I can do because everybody knows what I can do. So if you want me to believe you’re an elite competitor…

Karma mimes zipping his mouth shut

Johnny Karma: …less of that, because you’ve got a chance to prove yourself tonight, and if I were you I’d be a little more focused on that and a little less on trying to score points.

Once again maintaining eye contact for a little longer than necessary, Karma’s entire body language changes when he turns to Majima and pats him on the shoulder

Johnny Karma: Your patience is admirable.

Karma once again nods to Majima, barely resisting the urge to side-eye Bisley one final time and then he takes a couple of steps back before he and Cherry turn and continue down the corridor, leaving Bisley scowling at the backs of their heads – and Majima trying not suppress his amusement.

[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 Agganis Arena in Boston, Massachusetts. 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...

★★★ FRONTIER LIONS CUP (QUALIFYING ROUND) ★★★
Shintaro Majima vs. Tristan Ambrose

The riff from Terror Metal's "Dead and Gone" blare out through the speakers as the lights change to gold and white. Out from behind the curtain comes Alexander Cappotelli, closely followed by Tristan Ambrose, After a moment, they both start making their way to the ring.

Melanie Sierra: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is a Frontier Lions Cup Qualifier! Introducing first, from Seattle, Washington! Weighing in at 225 pounds… TRISTAN AMBROSE!

Tristan hops up on the apron, before ascending the rope and putting his arms out. Hopping down, he makes his way to the center rope, raising his arm, fist out. Unzipping the top vest, he tosses it to Alexander, as he starts pulling on the ropes waiting for either the opening bell, or his opponent to make his entrance.

Geoff Penzer: Tristan Ambrose and his Resistance came out on the losing end of their war with Ashley Sullivan and the other members of AAA. Tonight is a chance for Ambrose to not only bounce back with a W, but it could put him on a path towards the very top of FGA. But he faces a very formidable opponent in the from of the Strong Style Savior.

As the opening of "There's A Storm Coming" filters through the PA system a combination of gold and reddish-orange lights flicker in the entranceway in sync with the keyboards - until the intro is interrupted by a combination of brooding synths and haunting, almost ethereal vocals that greet Shintaro Majima as he walks through the curtain into the arena, and without a second's hesitation he begins to walk down the ramp towards the ring

Melanie Sierra: And his opponent, from Gifu, Japan! Weighing in at 241 pounds! He is “The Strong Style Savior”... SHINTARO MAJIMA!

Once he reaches ringside Majima climbs the ring steps and steps into the ring, loosening his robe and removing his sunglasses before he walks towards the corner he has decided is his, at which point he removes his robe and places it and his sunglasses in the corner, pausing to wipe the back of each hand in the palm of the other in preparation for what is to follow.

Geoff Penzer: Shintaro Majima, along with Mark Bisley, were able to win the FGA World Tag Team Titles several months back. After losing their last attempt at the titles some time back, both Majima and Bisley now find themselves separated into singles roles here in the Frontier Lions Cup. Bisley has bragged and boasted about his abilities as a singles star. There’s no denying his record elsewhere. But as it pertains to FGA, it’s Shintaro Majima that has the hardware. Shintaro, of course, is a former World Tag Team Champion. But what many people forget is that he is also a former 15 Champion. Majima knows how to get it done solo. He’s more than capable of holding his own. But so is Tristan Ambrose, who has gone toe to toe with the best of them since arriving in FGA during this Spring. This is a huge opportunity for both grapplers. But only one will advance. Our first Qualifying Match starts… RIGHT NOW!

The match starts off with Ambrose rushing in on Majima and firing off rapid punches. Majima continues to get knocked back by the punches until The Strong Style Savior rocks Ambrose with a stiff forearm strike!

Geoff Penzer: I believe Ambrose just learned the hard way that it’s a bad idea to try and trade strikes with the Strong Style Savior.

Another forearm rocks Ambrose and knocks him backwards. Majima then rushes forward and connects with a front kick to the chest, sending Ambrose stumbling backwards into the ropes. After Ambrose ricochets off the ropes, Majima drops him with a Kawada Kick! He makes the cover.

ONE!


.
TWO!
.
.
Ambrose kicks out.

Majima picks up Ambrose, moves him into the corner and blasts him with an open hand chop. After receiving another open hand chop, Ambrose answers back with a hard right hand to the face. The Strong Style Savior responds by whacking Ambrose with an open hand slap across the neck. He then takes Ambrose and goes for an irish whip. But Ambrose reverses, sending Majima into the far corner. Ambrose runs into attack when Majima counters with a back elbow. The Strong Style Savior then grabs Ambrose, tosses him into the corner and sends him slumping down in the corner with Mongolian Chops. While Ambrose remains in the seated position, Majima turns and runs into the far ropes. When Majima returns, he delivers a Noshinto (running knee to opponent sat in the corner)! Majima then drags Ambrose from out of the corner before making the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Ambrose kicks out.

Majima picks up Ambrose and whips him into the ropes. When Ambrose returns, Majima throws out a running forearm smash. But Ambrose ducks. The momentum then sends both grapplers into opposite sets of ropes. When they both come back, Ambrose doubles him over with a running knee to the gut. After a knee lift knocks Majima upright, Ambrose throws out a roundhouse kick. But Majima ducks. He then grabs Ambrose from behind to set up for a German Suplex when Ambrose counters with three back elbows to the face. Once Ambrose is free, he follows up with a pelé kick! While Majima is dazed, Ambrose scrambles back to his feet before knocking Majima down with a discus clothesline! He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Majima kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Hard clothesline there by Ambrose, but it only gets two. I’m surprised that didn’t knock the wind right out of Majima.

Ambrose picks up Majima, moves him into the corner and places him in a clinch before delivering alternating knee strikes to the face. He then takes Majima and goes for an irish whip. But Majima reverses, sending Ambrose into the corner. Majima runs across the ring to attack when Ambrose steps out, grabs him and counters with a reverse STO into the turnbuckle! He makes the cover.

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

Geoff Penzer: Good counter there by Ambrose. He had that well scouted. But Majima was able to avoid the three count.

Ambrose picks up Majima and positions him for a German Suplex. But Majima is able to counter with back elbows to the face. After performing a standing switch, Majima goes for a German Suplex of his own. But Ambrose is able to rotate and land on his feet! When Majima gets back to his feet, Ambrose runs at Majima. The Strong Style Savior looks to counter with the Kurimuzon Kasai (lariat). But Ambrose ducks and runs into the ropes. When Majima turns around, he throws Ambrose down with the Uragaeshi (STO to running opponent)! He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Ambrose kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Ambrose got slammed down with authority by Majima. But it only gets two. We’ve got a ton of action still to come but right now, we are in the middle of this back and forth Frontier Lions Cup Qualifier to kick off Flashpoint!

Majima picks up Ambrose, wrenches his arm and delivers machinegun chops to the side of the neck! He then steps back before completing a step-up enzuigiri. While Ambrose is dazed, Majima turns and runs into the far ropes. When he returns, he knocks Ambrose through the ropes and to the floor with a running forearm smash!

Geoff Penzer: The Strong Style Savior definitely put something extra behind that forearm!

While Ambrose tries to pick himself up on the outside, Majima turns and runs into the far ropes. When he comes back, he leaps through the ropes and knocks Ambrose down with an elbow suicida!

Geoff Penzer: Majima wipes out Ambrose on the floor!

Majima picks up Ambrose and rolls him back inside. He then rolls back in and makes the cover.

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

Majima picks up Ambrose and lifts him up before throwing him down with the Kurifu (back suplex side slam)! He then steps out onto the apron and patiently waits for Ambrose to get into position. Once Ambrose gets to his feet and turns around, The Strong Style Savior knocks him down with the Hakai Tsuchi (slingshot shoulder block)! He makes the cover.

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

Majima picks up Ambrose and whips him into the corner. He then runs across the ring to deliver the Kao No Nai (Yakuza kick to a cornered opponent). But Ambrose catches his foot. He then shoves Majima down to the mat. As Majima rolls backwards onto a knee, Ambrose comes out of the corner and blasts him with the Lethal Dose (Avada Kedavra)! He makes the cover.

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

Geoff Penzer: Ambrose caught him right in the face with that superkick! But it only gets two!

Ambrose picks up Majima and whips him into the ropes. When Majima returns, Ambrose connects with a pop-up uppercut! He then doubles Majima over with a boot to the midsection before lifting him up onto his shoulders, running towards the corner and delivering a turnbuckle powerbomb! As Majima staggers from out of the corner, Ambrose throws him down with a T-Bone Suplex! He makes the cover.

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

Majima gets his shoulder up.

Ambrose picks up Majima and whips him into the ropes. When Majima returns, Ambrose brings him down with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. He makes the cover.

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

Majima gets his shoulder up.

Ambrose picks up Majima and whips him into the ropes. When Majima returns, Ambrose doubles him over with another running knee to the gut. He then pulls Majima back up, lifts him up and spikes him with a gutwrench piledriver! Ambrose pulls Majima backup, lifts him up and delivers the ドームズデー (Pumphandle Neckbreaker)! He makes the cover.

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

Majima gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Yet another nearfall for Ambrose. That time, Majima was just a bit slower in getting that shoulder up. Ambrose is wearing him down. A couple of more minutes of this and it might be over for the Strong Style Savior.

Ambrose pulls up Majima and sets him up for another T-Bone Suplex when Majima counters with elbows to the side of the head. While Ambrose is dazed, Majima turns and runs into the ropes. When The Strong Style Savior returns, Ambrose turns him away with a roundhouse kick before pulling him down with a reverse DDT! Ambrose then slips on a Dragon Sleeper!

Geoff Penzer: Ambrose with the Dragon Sleeper! He’s got it locked in on the Strong Style Savior! This could be all she wrote for Shintaro Majima!

The ref kneels down and asks Majima if he wants to give up. When Majima refuses, Ambrose cinches in the hold! Ambrose continues to keep the hold applied as he fights for the submission. The ref continues to check in on Majima. But he refuses every opportunity to quit! Majima then reaches up, grabs Ambrose by the hair and pulls his head down. Majima then raises his leg up and knees Ambrose in the face. Majima then knees Ambrose again… and again… and again! After the last knee, Ambrose breaks the hold.

Geoff Penzer: Majima is free! He has freed himself from the Dragon Sleeper. Desperate times called for desperate measures and it lead to him escaping that submission. Can the Strong Style Savior gain control of this contest?

Both grapplers slowly return to their feet. Ambrose motions for a punch when Majima cuts him off with an open hand slap. He then wallops Ambrose with another open hand slap. After doubling Ambrose over with a boot to the midsection, Majima sets him up for a powerbomb when Ambrose counters with a back body drop. He then picks up Majima and whips him into the ropes. When Majima returns, he sees Ambrose setting up for a back body drop. So he stops, places Ambrose in a front facelock, hooks the leg, lifts him up and plants him with a fisherman buster! He makes the cover.

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

Majima picks up Ambrose and whips him into the corner. The Strong Style Savior runs in to attack when Ambrose knocks him back with a back elbow to the face. While Majima is dazed, Ambrose steps out onto the apron and goes for a springboard forearm smash. But on the way down, Majima ducks, hooks Ambrose, hoists him up and throws him down with a Uranage! He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWI!
.
.
T-NO!

Ambrose gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: So close!

Majima picks up Ambrose and whips him into the corner. He then runs across the ring before blasting Ambrose with the Kao No Nai! Majima pulls Ambrose from out of the corner, doubles him over with a boot to the midsection, lifts him up and drops him with a release powerbomb! He makes the cover.

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

Ambrose gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Another close call for Ambrose!

Majima picks up Ambrose, grabs him by the wrist and delivers the Akuma-fu (repeated short-arm clotheslines). The last clothesline turns Ambrose inside out! Majima then reaches down, pulls up Ambrose off the mat from behind, hooks his arms from behind and leaves him folded up on the mat with the Tora O Rirīsu (release tiger suplex)! The Strong Style Savior marches over, pulls up Ambrose and lifts him up across his shoulder. He then turns to deliver the Kurimuzon Taki (Emerald Flowsion) when Ambrose wiggles his legs before slipping down from behind. He then quickly grabs Majima and delivers a release German Suplex! While Majima turns over on the mat, Ambrose heads out onto the apron. Once Majima gets back to his feet, Ambrose knocks him down from behind with a springboard forearm smash to the back of the head! Ambrose then steps out onto the apron before waving Majima back up. After Majima struggles to return to his feet, Ambrose knocks him down with a springboard forearm smash to the face! The Strong Style Savior begins to stir on the mat. As soon as he pushes himself up on all fours, Ambrose runs over and The Cure (Curb Stomp)! But no! Majima catches Ambrose across his shoulder and plants him with the Kurimuzon Taki! Majima makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd boos when “There’s A Storm Coming” hits the speakers.

Melanie Sierra: Here is your winner, SHINTARO MAJIMA!

The boos continue as Majima gets his arm raised in victory. The camera pans over to Geoff Penzer at the commentary table.

Geoff Penzer: Hello wrestling fans and welcome to another edition of Flashpoint. I am your host, Geoff Penzer! We just kicked off Flashpoint with our first of four Frontier Lions Cup qualifying matchups here tonight. The Strong Style Savior, Shintaro Majima was able to best the leader of The Resistance, Tristan Ambrose! Majima will now advance to the first round, which is something that his partner Mark Bisley will hope to do later on tonight when he goes up against former FGA Undisputed Champion, Johnny Karma! In other qualifying action, Cassius Reed will go one on one with AAA member Antoinette Sands while Brian Stryker takes on Michael Tomkins! In our headliner, International Heavyweight Champion Chandler Scott goes up against Terrence Tillman in non-title action! Then, in our main event, it will be the United States Champion, Sales, going one on one with “The Burning Heart” James Edwards! The winner will go on to face Chandler Scott at Final Frontier for the International Heavyweight Championship! We’ve got a ton of action coming to you tonight, folks! Coming up right after the break will be our second Qualifying Match of the night! Don’t you dare miss it!

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

★★★ PREVIOUSLY RECORDED ★★★

We go to some old footage from after the last edition of Flashpoint, where the 15 Champion Kendall Kingham was getting checked on in the trainer’s room. She was beaten and battered following the assault from Sloan Talbot, but tried to keep good spirits. It was difficult because she was clearly in a lot of pain, but she was trying her best. The door swung open and the brand’s GM Hadley Herrera came in to check on her, and get a status update.

Hadley Herrera: Hey, how are you holding u--

Kendall wasn’t normally the most assertive one, but abruptly cut her off.

Kendall Kingham: Not great, but I’ll be fine. Gimme a match with him. He wants a shot at me, this title, he’s got it.

Hadley seems a bit taken aback, but tries her best to reason with her.

Hadley Herrera: Kendall, listen I get it, you’re upset and you should be. You’re thinking with your emotions right now, I’m not in any mood to reward someone for an assault like that. If anything, he needs some kind of punishment, that’s not how you conduct yourself on this brand and it’s definitely not how you get title shots. And you, we need to get you to the hospital for more examinations and make sure you’re cleared to compete before we book you in anything.

Kingham bites her lip, frustration clearly welling up on her face.

Kendall Kingham: I’ll take whatever tests I need to get cleared, but once I’m back, I want him. Don’t look at it as a reward for him, make the match for me. If you protect me after--

She stops, grabs her neck and grimaces.

Kendall Kingham: -- Ow. After that happened to me, that like sends a message that I’m what all those people think I am. Someone they can walk over, that they can just attack me and do whatever without me getting them back. That’s just gonna make me a bigger target for people. Please, please, just let his punishment be me knocking him back in line and showing him what’s up.

The GM seemed conflicted by her plea, taking a moment to consider it before sighing.

Hadley Herrera: Okay, I’ll see what I can do about getting you a match with him. I’ve got reservations, but you’ve got it, as long as the doctors clear you.

Kingham tries to nod her head, but can’t really move her neck or head that well right now.

Kendall Kingham: Thank you, all I want is a chance.

[FGA Office]

The scene opens backstage, where a casually dressed Peaches is walking through the halls with a Frappuccino in hand. But she turns her head when she hears someone calling her name.

Amanda Johnson: Peaches!

A smile forming on the face of the former tag champion as Amanda hurriedly walks towards her with a microphone in hand.

Peaches: Hey Amanda.

Amanda Johnson: I didn’t expect to see you here tonight, what with the Frontier Lions Cup starting and you not being set to appear.

Peaches: I know, but me an’ Dan make it to every show. Just in case, y’know.

Amanda Johnson: Just in case The Chaotics have something up their sleeve?

Peaches reaches across to nudge Amanda with her elbow.

Peaches: Now you’re gettin’ it. ‘Cause I bet they’ve got somethin’ planned, somethin’ where they can bitch an’ moan some more ‘bout they’re apparently bein’ held down…despite bein’ in the Frontier Lions Cup this year. Or how they’re never on the show…despite main eventin’ the last Flashpoint.

Amanda Johnson: Of which, neither apply to you…

Peaches: Yeah, but don’t tell ’em that. They ain’t much in the mood for facts right now. What with their heads bein’ firmly stuck up their own asses an’ all that.

Amanda Johnson: The next thing is: we haven’t heard any word about who’ll be the next team to challenge The Chaotics for the FGA World tag team titles after they defeated AAA on the last sho–

Peaches: Lemme stop you right there, Amanda. With all due respect. But me an’ Dan are gettin’ a crack at The Chaotics. If it’s in a match at Final Frontier, great. But if it’s just seein’ Ashlyn an’ Logan backstage tonight, that works for us too. ‘Cause they’ve poked an’ they’ve prodded us. They’ve kicked us while we were down – literally! An’ they’ve pushed us as far as we’re willin’ to go. So somethin’s gotta give, Amanda. An’ if Ashlyn De Luca thinks it’s funny to keep runnin’ her mouth. Lyin’ an’ talkin’ sh*t ‘bout us an’ Hadley. Then I’ve got a pretty good idea of what’s gonna give first.

With that, Peaches walks away and takes a sip of her Frappuccino, leaving Amanda behind as the show cuts back to ringside.

[FGA Office]

★★★ FRONTIER LIONS CUP (QUALIFYING ROUND) ★★★
Brian Stryker vs. Michael Tomkins

"Cut my life into pieces..." the opening lines of "Last Resort" by Papa Roach hits, and the lights around the entrance go out to a lukewarm cheer. When they come up, Michael Tomkins stands still wearing his black leather jacket with the words "3 Seconds" embroidered on the back. Looking from left to right, with a hint of his arrogant smile. He raises an arm holding his middle three fingers, before heading down to the ring.

Melanie Sierra: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is a Frontier Lions Cup Qualifier! Introducing first, London, England! Weighing in at 235 pounds! He is MICHAEL TOMKINS!

Michael climbs to the top rope, looking around the crowd before raising his arms. Taking in the moment, he closes his eyes, before jumping back down, ready to start his match.

Geoff Penzer: Michael Tomkins has had a rough go of it as of late. But this is the match that could turn all of his fortunes around. Tomkins was the first FGA Heavyweight Champion that this company ever had. Tonight could be the start of him getting one step closer towards becoming the next International Heavyweight Champion.

"Watch Me Burn" starts playing as Brian Stryker comes walking out from the back. He has his hood up as he keeps his hands in the pockets of his hoodie. Strolling down the ramp, Stryker looks at a few of his former fans as they boo him, smiling at them as he fakes them out with sudden move, laughing as they flinch.

Melanie Sierra: And his opponent, from from Maui, Hawaii! Weighing in at 215 pounds! You're savor of the masses, the Man you all came to see. Welcome to The Brian Stryker Experience!

He climbs up the steps as he climbs over the ropes into the ring. He stands in the center of the ring as he unzips his hoodie and lets it fall off him as he stands there posing like a Greek statue. Once he finished basking in the "cheers" of his adoring public, Stryker kicks his hoodie out of the ring and leans sideways against the turnbuckle and waits.

Geoff Penzer: Brian Stryker fell to James Edwards back at Above & Beyond Six. After attacking Edwards one show after another, The Burning Heart was able to get his revenge on pay per view. While losing to Edwards was not the outcome that Stryker wanted, today is a new day. A win here tonight gets Stryker one step closer to challenging for the top prize. Stryker spent the most of the fall and winter as FGA 15 Champion. The former Papa Stryker would love for nothing more than to once again hold a title than he can call his.

The match starts with Stryker running over and kicking Tomkins repeatedly in the midsection! The boos continue as he takes Tomkins and goes for an irish whip. But Tomkins reverses, sending Stryker across the ring and into the corner. Tomkins runs across the ring to attack when Stryker ducks and dumps him over the top rope and to the floor. Tomkins gets up on the outside, but he’s quickly knocked back down by a high angle body press Stryker gets on top of Tomkins and rains down punches to the face!

Geoff Penzer: Stryker is going right after Tomkins! He isn’t wasting any time!

Stryker picks up Tomkins and rolls him back inside. After rolling himself back in, he picks up Tomkins, runs into the corner and slams him face-first into the top turnbuckle. He then turns Tomkins around before delivering repeated shoulder thrusts to the midsection. Stryker takes Tomkins by the arm, pulls him from out of the corner and knocks him into the ropes with the First Stryke (arm wrench/hook kick combination). He then heads over, grabs Tomkins and goes for an irish whip. But again, Tomkins reverses, sending Stryker into the ropes. When Stryker returns, Tomkins knocks him back with a back elbow. He then grabs Stryker by the wrist, wrenches his arm and knocks him down with a hook kick! The cheers continue as he drops down and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
Stryker kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Tomkins gave Stryker a taste of his own medicine. But he only gets two.

Tomkins picks up Stryker and delivers a knife edge chop. Stryker responds with a rake to the eyes. He then takes Tomkins and whips him into the ropes. When Tomkins returns, Stryker sets up for a back body drop. So Tomkins stops, knocks Stryker upright with a kick to the face and then throws him down with an STO! He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Stryker kicks out.

Tomkins pulls up Stryker and tries to set up for a high angle backdrop. But Stryker counters with elbows to the back of the head. He then turns and runs into the ropes. When Stryker returns, Tomkins throws out a spinning backfist. But Stryker ducks before continuing to run the ropes. When he comes back, he brings Tomkins down with a running hurricanrana. Stryker rushes over and follows up with a running dropkick that knocks Tomkins back down. He then picks up Tomkins and positions him for Stryke 2 (leg-hook Saito Suplex). But Tomkins counters with hammer fists to the back of the head. He then knocks Stryker upright with a knee lift before knocking him back with a spinning backfist. He then takes Stryker and whips him back into the ropes. When Stryker returns, Tomkins throws out a roundhouse kick. But Stryker slides underneath it. When Tomkins turns around, Stryker drops him down to a knee after a low dropkick to the leg. Stryker then sends Tomkins face-first into the canvas with a spiking hurricanrana! The boos continues as he makes the cover.

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

Stryker picks up Tomkins and moves him into the corner. He proceeds to light up Tomkins’ chest with knife edge chops. After sending Tomkins into the far corner with an irish whip, Stryker runs across the ring and connects with a corner elbow before following up with a CSS Enzuigiri! While Tomkins slumps down in the corner, the crowd erutps with boos as Stryker steps out onto the apron and walks across the apron. He then begins to climb the turnbuckles…

Geoff Penzer: Is Stryker trying to go Coast to Coast!? He can’t be!

As soon as Stryker reaches the top, Tomkins runs over and shoves Stryker’s legs out from under him! The crowd cheers when Stryker ends up crotched on the top turnbuckle. Tomkins then climbs up onto the middle ropes. He then stops before climbing up all the way onto the top rope! After pulling Stryker up, Tomkins goes for a superplex. But Stryker blocks it. Tomkins then tries to muscle him up for another superplex but again, Tomkins blocks it. When Tomkins lets go, Stryker hammers him with right hands to the face before shoving him down to the mat! Once Tomkins gets back to his feet, Stryker leaps off and knocks him down with a missile dropkick! He makes the cover.

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

Stryker pulls up Tomkins, lifts him up and brings him down with the Freak Accident (pumphandle neckbreaker lift dropped into a cutter)! While Tomkins remains face-down on the mat, Stryker heads over and slingshots himself out onto the apron. He then scales to the top turnbuckle, leaps off and comes crashing down across the back of Tomkins’ neck with a diving leg drop! The boos continue as Stryker slowly pulls up Tomkins before whipping him hard into the corner. After Tomkins crashes sternum-first into the corner, he stumbles back towards Stryker, who knocks him back into the corner with a dropkick to the back of the head. He then lifts Tomkins up before sitting him down on the top turnbuckle. Stryker then climbs up onto the middle ropes, grabs Tomkins and leaves him folded up on the mat with a Spider Suplex! After climbing back down, Stryker drags Tomkins towards the center of the ring and locks him in the Shawshank (step over toehold with a full nelson). As soon as Stryker cinches in the hold, the ref asks Tomkins if he wants to give up. Tomkins verbally gives up. The crowd boos when the ref calls for the bell.

The crowd erupts with boos as “Watch Me Burn” blares throughout the arena.

Melanie Sierra: Here is your winner, BRIAN STRYKER!

The boos continue as Brian Stryker gets his arm raised in victory.

Geoff Penzer: Brian Stryker picks up the win over Michael Tomkins to advance to the First Round. Not much to say there about that one. Tomkins had some spurts of offense here and there. But tonight, Brian Stryker was simply the better man. Ladies and gentlemen, we’ve got more Frontier Lions Cup qualifiers to come right after this!

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

★★★ PREVIOUSLY RECORDED ★★★

The camera pans the back entrance when suddenly Terrence Tillman is seen walking towards the arena with Vince Graham. Just as they are about to enter, Tillman notices the camera. He motions for to head inside before walking towards the camera. He smirks, chuckling to himself before speaking.

Terrence Tillman: Soooo how interesting is this? Non-title match against the one and only Chandler Scott. Now this is where I’m suppose to go on and talk about how much of an honor it is to share the ring with a man like Scott. How amazing of an opportunity, it is to be in the Headline Match with a champion. But you now what? I can’t. I can’t stand here and pretend that this is an opportunity that I should be grateful for. Because it’s obvious that this match isn’t for me. It’s clear that this match is less about me and more about making the beloved champion look good.

Terrence Tillman: See this is one of those situations where everyone thinks they already know what’s about to happen. No one is expecting me to win. After all the last time I was in the ring, I ate two double team moves and was pinned but a man that one on one couldn’t beat me if I whooped my own ass! Chandler isn’t sweating it. The boys in the back scouting the match doesn’t think there is anything to worry about. When the match was announced, all the YouTube “analyst” all predicted hands down that Triple T doesn’t have a chance against Scott. Hell I’m sure my own “T-Unit” is expecting me to shock the world.

Terrence Tillman: So what is going to happen tonight? Unfortunately, I have to do something I don’t normally do. Tonight, Triple T is going to piss off a lot of people. The boys and girls in the back thinking they are next in line for the International Heavyweight title will now have to fight for the position behind me! Those arm chair wrestling experts will be posting their results videos with their own foots nestled tightly in their mouths! Right now there is a nice suburban family inside that just finished getting their popcorn and drinks, and are now in their seats ready to unroll their I love Chandler signs and cheer on their favorite wrestler. And I’m about to send them home unhappy because tonight I’m going to outperform, out-wrestle, and just plain outdo Chandler Scott, and when the time is right, it will be Chin Checka, Skyfall, 1…2…3!

Terrence Tillman: Tonight, isn’t a “showcase” for the champion. Tonight Chandler Scott is going to learn that me not being on his radar is exactly why he’s going to get hit! Tonight Chandler Scott is going to be more than pissed because plain and simply, tonight is not just going to lose, he’s about to get his ASS KICKED!

Terrence Tillman: Ladies and gentlemen, board your doors and hide your daughters! Triple T is in the building!

With that, Triple T adjusts his gear bag and enters the Agganis Arena.

[FGA Office]

★★★ FRONTIER LIONS CUP (QUALIFYING ROUND) ★★★
Cassius Reed vs. Antoinette Sands

“Killin It” by Krewella hits the P.A system and the fans immediately turn to cheers as it isn’t long at all before Antoinette Sands comes skipping out from backstage. She looks like a walking disco ball with how lit up she is, causing the fans to chant her name as her electric personality shines through. As her body jumps up and down three times, she looks down as her feet stomp against the ramp listening to the music as she skips down the ramp, slapping the hands of the fans.

Melanier Sierra: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is a Frontier Lions Cup Qualifier! Introducing first, from Durham, North Carolina… ANTOINETTE SANDS!

As she approaches some desperately reaching their hands out, Antoinette playfully digs into her shorts pocket before blowing on her hand in the face of the fans, watching as pink and purple glitter mist smacks them in the face making them cheer out of excitement. Antoinette quickly makes her way to the ring, sliding under the ropes before jumping up standing tall in the middle of the ring, nodding her head as she watches for her opponent.

Geoff Penzer: Antoinette Sands was victorious along with Ashley Sullivan and Ashley Marie Chase against The Resistance a few weeks back. Now, all three AAA members have been placed in the Frontier Lions Cup. Out of the three, Ant is the first up to bat. Can she pull off the huge upset here tonight and set the bar for her fellow AAA members on the next edition of Flashpoint? We’re about to find out!

[align=center]It’s not my fault your girlfriend like me,
I do her hard like fucking warp speed,
Your Dad’s mad, it’s not my fucking fault,
That your Mom wants to fucking fuck me![/align]

As the intro to “You Suck” by Pour Habit blasts throughout the arena, out from the back bursts Cassius Reed! Slowly rotating in his gold lined black ring robe Cassius soaks in the atmosphere for just a moment. Spinning to face the ring, he shadow boxes at the top of the ramp a short time more, before posing, spreading his arms wide, and sprinting down to the ring at full pace!

Melanie Sierra: And her opponent, from Funkytown, USA! Weighing in at 205 pounds! He is “The Funky Dragon”... CASSIUS REED!

Sliding in under the bottom rope, he quickly rolls onto his back before kipping up! Giving a quick smirk and raised eyebrow to the referee, he turns and leaps to the top of the nearest turnbuckle, before wiping off his ring robe with a flourish. He poses just a moment at the top of the turnbuckle, smug grin on his face, robe hanging from his hand, before dropping back to the mat, consigning his entrance gear to the outside whilst he finishes warming up for the match with more shadow boxing.

Geoff Penzer: Cassius Reed and tournaments go together like PB & J. It seems like over the last four of five years, The Funky Dragon has been able to win at least one prestigious tournament in the world of wrestling. This past winter, Reed made his debut on the FGA stage and took it by storm by winning the 2018 Rey del Aire. Weeks later, Reed made his formal debut as a member of Flashpoint and he’s been serving suckas ever since. Right here, right now, it gets no better than this. This year’s Frontier Lions Cup is the biggest field to date. 32 grapplers between both Flashpoint and Vertigo. This tournament is truly the best of the best. A tournament like this is right up Reed’s alley. He’s shown that he has the endurance as well as the talent. But can Cassius pull off another series of huge wins and get his name engraved on yet another trophy? We’re about to see as Cassius versus Antoinette is up next!

The bell sounds as Reed makes his way over to Sands to offer a handshake. The gullible Sands goes in for the handshake when Reed pulls his hands back at the last second and runs his hands through his afro as he moonwalks away from her. The crowd boos at the sight of the disappointed Sands pouting. She then shakes her head at Reed as they both circle the ring. A lock up soon follows. Reed quickly places Sands in a side headlock before transitioning into a hammerlock from behind. He then quickly spins Sands around towards him before dropping her with a jawbreaker! He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Sands kicks out.

Reed picks up Sands, moves her into the corner and delivers a series of knife edge chops. He then brings the AAA member from out of the corner before shooting her off into the far ropes. When Sands returns, Reed leapfrogs over her. Sands continues to run the ropes. When Sands turns around, Reed sets up for a back body drop. So Sands hops over him before continuing to run the ropes. When Reed stands up and turns around, Sands comes back and throws out a running headscissors takedown. But The Funky Dragon is able to counter by cartwheeling out of the move. Once Sands gets back to her feet, Reed runs over and takes her down with What The Funk (handstand handspring headscissors takedown)! When Sands gets back up, Reed the crowd boos as he peppers her with jabs that knock her backwards into the corner. From there, Reed goes to work with body blows. He then sends Sands into the far corner with an irish whip. Reed runs across the ring and throws out the Spanish Archer (Bionic Elbow) when Sands slips out of the way! The crowd cheers when Reed crashes into the corner.

Geoff Penzer: Nobody was home for Cassius!

After turning Reed around, Sands delivers knife edge chops that echo throughout the arena. She then brings Reed from out of the corner and goes for an irish whip. But Reed reverses, sending Sands into the ropes. When Sands returns, she goes to slide through Reed’s legs. But Reed reaches down and grabs her by the hair! After pulling Sands back to her feet, Reed runs and chucks her over the top rope. But instead of crashing to the floor, Sands lands safely on the apron. After Reed finishes showboating, he turns around and sees Sands on the apron. The Funky Dragon immediately runs over and goes to knock Sands off the apron. But Sands grabs the top rope and drops down, sending Reed flipping over the top rope and crashing to the floor!

Geoff Penzer: Sands just sent Reed tumbling to the outside!

When Reed gets up and turns around, the crowd cheers when Sands runs across the apron before knocking him down with a diving crossbody!

Geoff Penzer: The high risk pays off for Ant!

Sands picks up Reed and rolls him back inside. After Sands climbs up onto the apron, Reed scrambles to his feet and nails her with a shoulder thrust through the ropes! He then goes to bring Sands back inside with a vertical suplex when Sands slips down from behind. She then follows up with a dropkick, knocking Reed through the ropes and to the floor. Sands then heads into the corner and begins to climb the turnbuckles. Once Reed gets up on the outside and looks up, the crowd explodes with cheers when Sands leaps off and knocks him down with a flying clothesline!

Geoff Penzer: Sands soars through the air before taking out Reed!

Sands picks up Reed and rolls him back inside. She then rolls back in and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Reed kicks out.

Sands picks up Reed and whips him into the corner. She then runs across the ring and goes for a monkey flip. But Reed grabs Sands, turns, sits her down on the top turnbuckle and shoves her off, sending Sands flipping over the top rope and crashing to the floor!

Geoff Penzer: Oh no! Sands just took a hard fall to the floor! I hope she isn’t hurt!

Sands begins to stir on the outside. After slowly turning over to the side, she gets back to her feet. When Sands turns around, the boos continue as Reed runs over and brings her down with a slingshot huracanrana! Reed picks up Sands and slams her face-first onto the apron before shoving her back inside. He then slides back in to make the cover.

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

Reed picks up Sands and slams her face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning Sands around, Reed rocks her with a European Uppercut. He then nails Sands with a second European Uppercut. Then a third. He then pulls Sands from out of the corner before bringing her down with a split-legged Stunner. Reed gets to his feet and heads into the ropes. When Reed returns, he connects with a leg drop. Reed gets up and runs back into the ropes. When The Funky Dragon returns, he connects with a running leg drop. He then gets back up before heading back into the ropes. When Reed returns, he executes a somersault leg drop. The boos continue as he turns over and makes the cover.

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

Reed picks up Sands, lifts her up and delivers a belly to back suplex. He follows up with a handstand leg drop. He makes the cover.

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

Geoff Penzer: Another nearfall for Reed.

Reed picks up Sands and whips her into the ropes. When Sands returns, Reed brings her down with a bridging northern lights suplex, rolls through and follows up with MMA-style mounted punches! Reed then pulls up Sands before bringing her down with a reverse DDT. After stepping out onto the apron, Reed scales to the top turnbuckle, leaps off and crashes down across Sands with a diving somersault leg drop! The boos continue as he makes the cover.

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

The crowd cheers when Sands gets her shoulder up.

Reed begins to slowly pick up Sands when Sands counters with back elbows to the midsection. She then stands up and begins to nail Reed with punches to the face. The cheers continue while Sands continue to nail Reed with punches. Sands then gets quickly cut off with Johnny Cage (split-legged punch to the midsection)! Reed then rolls back before bringing Sands down with a kip up huracanrana. Once Reed returns to his feet, he turns away from Sands before going for Funky Knee, Funky Do (standing moonsault double knee drop). But Sands rolls out of the way, causing Reed to crash knees-first onto the canvas! The crowd cheers while Reed howls in pain.

Geoff Penzer: Ant rolled out of the way! Reed connected with nothing but canvas!

Sands pulls Reed up from off his knees before bringing him down with a swinging neckbreaker! She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Reed kicks out.

Sands picks up Reed and goes for a running bulldog when Reed shoves Sands off into the ropes. When Sands returns, she executes a headscissors takedown! She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Reed kicks out.

Sands picks up Reed and knocks him back with knife edge chops. She then connects with a spin kick that sends Reed slumping down in the corner. After stepping back towards the center of the ring, Sands runs forward, jumps towards the corner and delivers the Alien INVASION (Bronco Buster)! She then pulls up Reed in the corner before climbing up onto the middle ropes. Sands then grabs Reed before planting him with a Tornado DDT! The cheers continue as she makes the cover.

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

Sands picks up Reed and whips him into the corner. She then runs across the ring, hops onto Reed and monkey flips him out of the corner. As Reed is trying to get back to his feet, Sands runs from out of the corner, grabs Reed and brings him down with a running bulldog! As Reed rolls over onto his back, Sands steps out onto the apron. She begins to wave her arms up and down before beginning to climb the turnbuckles…

Geoff Penzer: Ant is looking to put this one away! She’s looking to follow in the footsteps of her cousin when he won the Frontier Lions Cup five years ago!

Once Sands gets one foot the top, Reed kips up, grabs her and throws her down with a slam! The boos continue as Reed steps out onto the apron. Once Sands gets back to her feet and turns around, the crowd boos when Reed delivers the Funkensteiner (springboard huracanrana)! The ref slides into place for the count.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd erupts with boos when “You Suck” hits the speakers.

Melanie Sierra: Here is your winner, CASSIUS REED!

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

Geoff Penzer: Cassius Reed foils the dreams of Antoinette Sands here tonight by eliminating her in the Qualifying Round! Ant was so close. She was right on the cusp of potentially winning this match. But that split second? That’s all it takes. When you’re fighting someone like Reed, you have to keep your mistakes to a minimum and unfortunately for Ant, she was unable to do that here tonight. The Funky Dragon advances in the Frontier Lions Cup! Stick around, wrestling fans! We’ve got more to come, right after this!

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

We cut to the backstage area where Amanda Johnson is standing in front of the office of Flashpoint General Manager, Hadley Herrera, microphone in hand. The crowd pops mildly for a pleasant, familiar face and Amanda raises her mic, beginning to speak.

Amanda Johnson: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here outside of Hadley Herrera’s office, hoping to get her thoughts on the brack--

???: Where is she?!

Amanda looks down the corridor toward the sound of the voice and the cameras quickly pan in that direction as well. A mixed reaction surges throughout the Agganis Arena as the Tag Team Champions-- Ashlyn De Luca and Logan Alexander of the Chaotics approach, with Ashlyn storming down the hall, allowing her Tag Team Title to drop to the floor as she picks up pace, seeing the name on the door Amanda is standing in front of.

Amanda Johnson: Oh--

Ashlyn De Luca: Is she in here?

Ashlyn doesn’t wait for a response, immediately twisting at the door knob, a single, bitter laugh escaping her mouth as the lock does its job. She rests her head against the door for one second before clenching a fist, looking toward the door with flushed cheeks.

Ashlyn De Luca: This miserable bitch.

Amanda looks at Ashlyn, mouth open slightly as she tries to gather her thoughts before turning instead to the approaching Logan Alexander.

Amanda Johnson: Ashlyn. Logan? Assuming you… want to have a word with the General Manager as well?

Logan Alexander: A word? It will likely be many words. Several of which aren’t generally allowed to be spoken on television.

Amanda Johnson: Well, I’m sure this is about the fact that you guys have to face each other for the chance to advance in the 2018 Frontier Lion’s C--

Ashlyn turns around, glaring at the interviewer.

Ashlyn De Luca: That’s not right and you know that’s not right.

Amanda sighs and shrugs her shoulders a bit.

Amanda Johnson: It’s… it’s at least an opportunity that you guys weren’t afforded just a year ago, isn’t it? I mean--

Logan snorts softly and crosses his arms over his chest. The camera pans in on him as Ashlyn slams a fist against the door in the background.

Logan Alexander: It’s not an opportunity. It’s an insult. This is Hadley’s way of telling us that she’s in charge here. She had fourteen different choices for opponents for each of us. She could have afforded us the same kind of placement that Smart Style was given, or Pendragon was given, or even that the Good Guys were given. Instead, we are the only team or stable in FGA entered in the Frontier Lions Cup that have to face one another in the qualifying round. Does that sound fair? It’s the first singles match Ashlyn or I have had since the start of the year… and Hadley decides that it should be against one another.

We pan out again and Ashlyn has turned back around, running her hands down her face, taking a deep breath to steady herself before looking at Amanda.

Ashlyn De Luca: She probably let her brother and her sister-in-law come up with the Flashpoint brackets, because that’s the kind of boss she is. That’s the kind of show she’s running. Hadley Herrera is a garbage General Manager and a garbage human being. The Herreras as a family are the biggest pile of flaming [muted] currently tainting the wrestling industry, and we have to suffer for that.

Ashlyn takes another few deep breaths, closing her eyes for a moment before glaring at the interviewer again.

Ashlyn De Luca: They think this is a game, dude. And it’s… the reality when they find out that it’s not is gonna be so harsh. I swear to God. Normal people don’t get to screw up as many times as Hadley and keep getting away with it. She’s not gonna get away with this.

Logan Alexander: We’ve toed her line. We’ve played nice. We haven’t sown any chaos across the Flashpoint brand like malcontents. All we asked for was a fair shot. We didn’t jump any champions to try and get title matches like half the people on this brand have done. We haven’t crashed any matches that didn’t involve us to make statements about what we felt we were owed. We played by the rules… and Hadley slaps us across the face with this. This kind of abuse of power from a GM is what I came to FGA to get away from.

He looks over at Ashlyn.

Logan Alexander: Quite frankly, I’m sick of it. I’m sick of dealing with the power plays of people behind the scenes who think that they know best.

Ashlyn nods in agreeance, gaze ahead resting on something indistinct.

Amanda Johnson: ...is it fair to say you guys have always played by the rules, considering the assault on the Polychromatic Lion Attack Squad? You can’t look at this situation-- an eye for an eye, so to speak-- and say you’re shocked.

Ashlyn De Luca: Unbelievable.

Ashlyn angles her head toward Amanda for a moment before rolling her eyes, responding in a quieter tone.

Ashlyn De Luca: Weeks. And weeks. And somehow, that’s the point you wanna build to in every interview you have with us. The point isn’t about the Herreras. The point is… we are the best tag team in this company, but that’s because we are the best... the best in this company, period. The point, Amanda, is that no matter what Hadley tries to do, one of us is winning the Frontier Lion’s Cup.

Ashlyn looks like she has more to say, but she also looks to be on the verge of losing composure, lip trembling slightly in anger as she shoots one final look back toward the door of Herrera’s office.

Logan Alexander: If this is the way it’s going to be… then we’ll make the most of it. But we aren’t going to forget the choice that Hadley made here… and she can bear the responsibility for whatever consequences come from it.

He looks to Ashlyn, meeting her gaze. He then nods his head back in the direction they had come from before leading the way back. Ashlyn follows him, bending down to pick up her FGA World Tag Team Championship as they walk away. We pan back to Amanda who sighs, glancing between the departing Chaotics and the locked door of Hadley Herrera as we fade.

[FGA Office]

★★★ FRONTIER LIONS CUP (QUALIFYING ROUND) ★★★
Johnny Karma vs. Mark Bisley

The lights are extinguished, and for a moment the arena is in total darkness – until blue lights begin to pulse in tune with the intro “Tick of the Clock”, building in volume and intensity until, at the exact moment the main hook begins to cut in, “Smart” Mark Bisley walks out at the top of the ramp with an arm raised, pausing for a moment at the top of the ramp to survey the arena before a smirk crosses the side of his mouth and he begins to walk down the ramp.

Bisley walks down the ramp with his arm still raised, his gum firmly chewed as he smirks, pausing halfway down the ramp and holds his arms out wide and tilts his head back, inviting the crowd to show their appreciation for everything he does for them, before continuing towards the ring.

Melanie Sierra: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is a Frontier Lions Cup Qualifier! Introducing first, from Minneapolis, Minnesota! Weighing in at 201 pounds! He is “Smart” MARK BISLEY!

Once he reaches the ring, Bisley finds a suitable spot and he lifts himself up to sit on the edge of the apron, where he taps the side of his head and smirks, before rolling backwards under the ropes and quickly gets to his feet in the ring.

Bisley walks to the nearest corner and climbs the turnbuckles, removing the towel from his shoulders and placing it on the ropes as he looks out over the arena. He climbs down and crosses the ring, climbing the opposite turnbuckles and stands with one foot on the top rope, raising both his arms into the air, before climbing down and removing his shirt, placing it on that set of turnbuckles. Finally, he approaches the centre of the ring and drops to a knee, caressing the canvas as he looks his opponent in the eye to say one thing: this is my ring.

Geoff Penzer: The Chaotics don’t seem too thrilled about having to face each other on the next edition of Flashpoint. You want to know who else isn’t pleased? Mark Bisley, who was in a foul mood after Johnny Karma put him in his place earlier tonight. Bisley has always had the gift of gab. But Karma told him like it was earlier tonight. The pressure is on for “Smart” Mark. Not only does he have to back up his talk, but he also has to match Shintaro Majima, who was able to advance earlier tonight.

The arena lights flash in a myriad of different colours in time with John Bonham's quite remarkably epic drum intro that is filling the arena, and just as it reaches a crescendo Cherry Baum emerges at the top of the ramp, standing to one side to introduce the man they call Johnny Karma, to the Frontier Wrestling Arts fanbase - at which point he walks out onto the ramp before coming to a halt and uses a couple of fingers to blow a kiss to the fans, pausing to hold his arm in the air for a couple of seconds to signal his arrival

As he and Cherry begin to walk down the ramp, Karma unfastens the cuffs of his ring jacket while also talking some last minute preparation with Cherry as they get ever closer to the ring

Melanie Sierra: And his opponent, from Queens, New York! Weighing in at 233 pounds! He is JOHNNY KARMA!

As the pair reach ringside, Cherry quickly climbs onto the ring apron and sits on the middle rope to hold it open, as Karma climbs the ring steps and walks along the apron, turning to face the audience and slowly raising an arm before raising his index finger to let everyone know that he is #1, before he steps through the ropes into the ring.

Once inside the ring, Karma unzips his ring jacket before he climbs onto the nearest turnbuckle and holds his arms out wide to soak in the crowd's cheers

If it keeps on rainin', levee's goin' to break
If it keeps on rainin', levee's goin' to break
When The Levee Breaks I'll have no place to stay

Once he climbs down from the turnbuckles, Karma crosses the ring and climbs onto the opposite turnbuckle to salute the fans

Mean old levee taught me to weep and moan
Mean old levee taught me to weep and moan
It's got what it takes to make a mountain man leave his home
Oh well, oh well, oh well

Climbing down once again, Karma saunters towards the centre of the ring and once again uses a couple of fingers to blow a kiss to the crowd before raising his arm high above his head with those two fingers still extended, and he holds the pose for a few seconds.


Geoff Penzer: Johnny Karma suffered a hard loss to Chandler Scott back at Above & Beyond Six. With the loss to Scott and with Envi and Page over on Vertigo, it’s back to square one for the man that has been a fixture in the main title scene for a year and a half. But if anyone can get back to the top, it is Karma. Karma is a former FLC Finalist. He’s also outlasted 29 other grapplers to win a Gold Rush Rumble. This time, if he wants to get to the end, he’ll have to outlast 31 other competitors between both Vertigo and Flashpoint!

The bell sounds as Karma and Bisley circle the ring before locking. After jockeying for position, Karma places Bisley in a side headlock. He quickly performs a standing switch and transitions into a hammerlock from behind. Karma then goes to follow up with Instant Karma (hammerlock spun into a DDT). But as soon as Bisley gets caught in the front facelock, he slips out and pushes away from Karma. The crowd boos Bisley as he looks at karma and taps the side of his head.

Geoff Penzer: Bisley’s taunting Karma. He’s letting Karma know that he’s got him well scouted.

The two grapplers continue to circle the ring before locking up. After jockeying for position, Bisley ducks under and pulls Karma down to the mat with a single leg takedown. He then tries to turn Karma over into a single leg crab. But Karma uses his free leg to shove him down to the mat. After both grapplers scramble back to a vertical base, Karma places Bisley in another front facelock. But before Karma can deliver a DDT, Bisley moves him against the ropes. The ref then heads over and gives them until the count of five to break it up.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

As soon as Karma raises his arms in the air, Bisley delivers multiple shoulder thrusts to the midsection. He then stands up and blasts Karma with knife edge chops.The boos then quickly turn to cheers when Karma grabs Bisley, switches positions and lights up his chest with knife edge chops. He then takes Bisley and whips him into the far ropes. When Bisley returns, Karma heads across the ring and throws out a clothesline. But Bisley ducks and heads into the ropes. When Bisley returns, Karma drops down to the mat. Bisley hops over him before continuing to run the ropes. When Bisley returns, Karma pops back up and goes for a hip toss. But Bisley hops through it and goes for a hip toss of his own. But Karma blocks it. Bisley tries to muscle him up for another hip toss. But again, Karma blocks it. So Bisley doubles him over with a punch to the midsection before throwing him down with a snap suplex. He turns over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Karma kicks out.

Bisley pulls up Karma and performs an arm wrench. After a second arm wrench, Karma reaches over, grabs Bisley and reverses into an arm wrench of his own. The cheers continue when Karma delivers another arm wrench. And another. Then another. The ref asks Bisley if he wants to give up. But Bisley refuses. He then rolls forward, leans back, kips up, reverses into another arm wrench and follows up with a bridging northern lights suplex.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Karma kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Bisley’s getting the better of Karma thus far, I’ll give him that. It’s still early, though.

Bisley picks up Karma and whips him into the far ropes. When Karma returns, he sees Bisley setting up for a back body drop. So he stops and pulls Bisley into a standing headscissors! The crowd cheers when they see Bisley set up for Dazed, Confused and All Messed Up (jumping piledriver)!

Geoff Penzer: Karma’s got him set up! If he plants him, this match is over!

...but Bisley is able to counter with a standing double leg takedown. After once again pointing to the side of his head, Bisley grabs a hold of Karma’s legs and tries to turn him over into the L'Étoile du Nord (Canadian Maple Leaf)! But Karma uses the strength in his legs to shove Bisley down to the mat. After both grapplers return to their feet, Bisley grabs Karma and goes for an irish whip. But Karma reverses, sending Bisley into the ropes. When Bisley returns, Karma scoops him up from the side and delivers backbreaker. Instead of letting Bisley fall to the mat, Karma pulls him up off his knee, heads over towards the side of the ring and tosses him through the ropes with Get Out Of My Ring!

Geoff Penzer: Karma letting Bisley know exactly what he thinks of him right there.

As Bisley gets up on the outside, Karma turns and runs into the far ropes. When Karma returns, he throws out This Is For The Front Row (baseball slide clothesline). But Bisley ducks, grabs Karma and rams him back-first against the guardrail! The crowd boos as Bisley pulls Karma away from the guardrail, only to ram him back-first into it again! While Karma is leaning against the guardrail, Bisley rolls back inside. He then gets to his feet before running into the far ropes. When Bisley comes back, he charges forward and leaps through the ropes with a suicide dive. Karma then sidesteps and shoves Bisley, sending him crashing to the floor!

Geoff Penzer: Karma blocked the dive!

Karma picks up Bisley, slams him face-first onto the apron and rolls him back inside. He then rolls back in, pulls up Bisley, marches into the corner and slams him face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning Bisley around, Karma lights up his chest with knife edge chops. He then takes Bisley and whips him into the far corner. Karma runs across the ring and nails him with an NYC Uppercut (running European Uppercut)! He then takes Bisley and whips him back into the previous corner. Karma runs across the ring to throw out another NYC Uppercut when Bisley counters with a back elbow. He then heads out of the corner and knocks Karma back with an enzuigiri. While Karma is dazed, Bisley gets up and runs into the ropes. When Bisley returns, Karma knocks him down with a running high knee! He then heads into the ropes. When Karma returns, he connects with a jumpking knee drop. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Bisley kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Karma’s back in control now...

Karma pulls up Bisley, runs, hops over the top rope and delivers Macho Karma. While Bisley stumbles back, Karma climbs back up onto the apron. He then begins to climb the turnbuckles. As soon as Karma gets to the top turnbuckle, Bisley runs into the ropes. The crowd boos when Karma slips and ends up crotched on the top turnbuckle! Karma howls in pain before slowly slipping down and falling onto the apron.

Geoff Penzer: Perhaps I spoke too soon! Karma looks to be in a word of troubled here...

As Karma pulls himself up on the apron, Bisley runs over into the corner and connects with the Ace Kick (triangle enzuigiri)! While Karma is doubled over, Bisley follows up with the Surprise (slingshot DDT to an opponent on the ring apron)! The crowd boos as Karma crumbles from off the apron and drops to the floor.

Geoff Penzer: Karma just got planted head-first right onto the apron! I wouldn’t be shocked if he’s out after that!

Bisley picks up Karma and rolls him back inside. She then rolls back in and makes the cover.

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

Karma gets his foot on the bottom rope.

Bisley grabs Karma, drags him towards the center of the ring and makes the cover.

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

Geoff Penzer: Good on Bisley for the follow up cover. But he still only gets two.

Bisley pulls up Karma and doubles him over with a rolling solebutt kick. He follows up with the Iko Uwais (cravat with repeated knees to the head)! The boos continue when Bisley brings Karma down with Greetings from the Twin Cities (hangman's neckbreaker over the knee)! He makes the cover.

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

Geoff Penzer: Karma again avoids the three count. But you can see Bisley really starting to target the head and neck. If Karma doesn’t turn this around, this could spell trouble for him.

Bisley picks up Karma, moves him into the corner and nails him with the Minnesota Buzzsaw (repeated shoot kicks to a cornered opponent's chest)! He then takes Karma and sends him into the opposite corner with an irish whip. Bisley runs across the ring to attack when Karma knocks him back with a back elbow. After stumbling back, Bisley runs back into the corner. This time, Karma knocks him back with a boot to the face. Karma then runs out of the corner to throw an NYC Uppercut when Bisley throws him down with an overhead belly to belly suplex! The boos continue as he makes the cover.

Geoff Penzer: Good counter there by Bisley! Is this enough for three?

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

Geoff Penzer: No!

Bisley picks up Karma and places him in a waist lock from behind. He then goes for a German Suplex, but Karma blocks it. He tries to hoist Karma up for another German Suplex when Karma blocks it again. After performing a standing switch, Karma grabs Bisley from behind, runs, jumps over the top rope and brings him down with Macho Karma! As Bisley stumbles back, Karma climbs up onto the apron, scales to the top turnbuckle, leaps off and knocks him down with a diving double axe handle! He makes the cover.

Geoff Penzer: Karma got him the second time out!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Bisley icks out.

Karma picks up Bisley and whips him into the ropes. When Bisley returns, he sees Karma setting up for a back body drop. So he stops and lifts Karma up into a Canadian Backbreaker rack. But Karma’s able to slip down from behind. When Bisley turn around, he gets caught with three left jabs before knocking him down with a right hook.

Geoff Penzer: Sugar Ray Karma!

Karma drops Bisley with another right hook. Bisley gets back to his feet before getting socked with another right hook. He then takes Bisley and whips him into the ropes. Karma throws out Check Your Chiclets (superkick)! But Bisley hangs onto the ropes, causing Karma to whiff. Bisley then runs at Karma to attack when Karma throws him down with a snap scoop powerslam! He hooks the leg for the cover…

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

Karma picks up Bisley and brings him back down with a russian leg sweep. He then lifts up Bisley’s leg and goes for a figure four leg lock when Bisley reaches up and pulls him down into a modified small package.

Geoff Penzer: Bisley caught him!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Karma shifts his weight over onto Bisley…

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Bisley shifts his weight back over onto Karma…

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Bisley kicks out.

After both grapplers return to their feet, the crowd boos when Bisley stuns Karma with a superkick! While Karma is dazed, Bisley turns and heads into the ropes. When Bisley returns, he motions for the Minnesota Hammer (rolling Polish hammer). But Karma cuts him off with Check Your Chiclets! He then pulls Bisley back up before sending him off into the ropes. When Bisley returns, Karma lifts him up, turns and throws him down with a spinebuster! He then steps out onto the apron before scaling to the top turnbuckle. The crowd mimics Karma as he points to the stars above. He then leaps off and crashes down across Bisley with From The Stars Above (flying elbow drop)! Karma turns Bisley over, pulls him up from behind, rolls him out in front of him and turns him inside out with Hard Times (wrist lock transitioned into a bionic elbow) to an explosion of cheers! Karma drops down, pulls Bisley over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd explodes with cheers as “When The Levee Breaks” blasts over the PA!

Melanie Sierra: Here is your winner, JOHNNY KARMA!

The cheers continues as Cherry gets in the ring and raises Karma’s arm.

Geoff Penzer: Johnny Karma picks up the win and gets himself one step closer to the top as he advances past Mark Bisley in the Frontier Lions Cup! Wrestling fans, we’ve got Salem and James Edwards in our main event. But coming up next, the International Heavyweight Champion will be in action as Chandler Scott goes one on one with Terrence Tillman!

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

Amanda Johnson: Ladies and gentlemen… *sighs*... with me at this time… Chandler Scott…

The arrival of Chandler Scott into the picture is met with a roar of cheers from the crowd. But there is also an undercurrent of boos. The International Heavyweight Champion stares off into the distance as he lets his newly won prized championship glisten in the light. He slowly lowers his head before removing his shade from his eyes. Chandler slips the shades onto his front collar before giving Amanda the nod to continue.

Amanda Johnson: Chandler, I won’t even beat around the bush. Let’s talk about the elephant in the room. Let’s talk about James Edwards and why you’re so afraid of him.

The mere mention of Edwards’ name gets a pop from the crowd. But it’s the mention of “Edwards” closely followed by “afraid of him” that causes the DNA of FGA to cock his eyebrow.

Chandler Scott: Uh… excuse me? You want to run that one by me again?

Amanda beams. She is more than happy to.

Amanda Johnson: Sure thing, champ. Why… are… you… afraid… of… James Edwards? Did you catch it that time?

Amanda asks the question with a straight face. Chandler has a look on his face that just screams “tell me… you didn’t… just… say that!”

Chandler Scott: Yeah I caught it that time! First off, what’s with your attitude? You’re sighing as you introduce me. You’re talking to me with this sarcastic tone. You normally only reserve this type of sass for Brookford. But he’s done packed his backs and closed up shop. So why is your International Heavyweight Champion, of all people, now the object of your disdain?

Amanda Johnson: I don’t have any disdain for you, Chandler. I’m just upset and if you listen past all of those cheers? Some of our great fans are disappointed in you, too. You’re better than to be acting the way that you have these past few weeks!

Chandler Scott: I’m better than the way I’ve been acting? I’m above acting the way that I have? Is that what you’re trying to tell me?

Amanda agrees with a nod.

Chandler Scott: Well let me remind you of something. It seems like everyone around here can take shots at me all the want and that’s all well and good. But as soon as I push back? As soon as I say something back, now all of a sudden, I’m the bad guy? I don’t think so. And as far as James Edwards is concerned? I’ve never been afraid of him a day in my life and guess what? Today won’t be the start.

Amanda Johnson: So why didn’t you just agree to the match when he asked?

Chandler Scott: Heh. You’re actually serious. Now let me get this straight. James Edwards comes to me and gives me nothing but attitude for months on end. Unprovoked, might I add! Then all of a sudden, he’s going to run up next to me backstage and go, “well oshkosh b'gosh, Chandler! I sure am sorry for being so mean and surly towards you all this time. Me being a massive dickhead is kinda my thing, y’know. So I just wanted to let you know that I apologize. *gasp* Saaaay, that’s a nice lookin title you got dere around yer waist. How bouts you give yer ol pal Jamesy Wamesy a shot at that thing, huh?” Uh, no, how about you go kick rocks, James Edwards!

Chandler shakes his head. A loud mixture of cheers and boos can be heard.

Chandler Scott: It's like this, Amanda. I don’t know how they do it in all those others companies that Jimbo goes gallivanting off to during his off weeks. But here in FGA? We earn our title shots around here. You want to know why I had the honor of fighting for this title? Because I went out and earned my shot! You want to know why John Karma was standing across the ring from me to fight for this? Because he went out and he earned his shot! You want to know why Jimmy Page got his shot at Showdown 7? Because he went out and earned it! You want to know why Fujiko Mine has her pick of which set of tag titles to go after? Because she went out there and she earned her shot! Some would even say that she did it all by herself, but that’s neither here nor there. I’m just repeating what others say. The fact of the matter is that if you want a title shot? Then you go out there and you earn it! Now I’ve got no problem facing Jim tonight, tomorrow, or even the day after that. But if he wants a shot at this bad boy right here? Then he has to simply earn it. I’m not making him jump through hoops. I’m not being unreasonable. I just want to see him earn this title shot. And should he win tonight, then he will get exactly what he deserves at Final Frontier: his ass kicked.

Another roar of cheers and boos are heard.

Chandler Scott: So let me make this crystal clear for the last time. Chandler Scott doesn’t fear James Edwards. Chandler Scott isn’t afraid of James Edwards. Saying such a thing is a bold faced lie. And after just dealing with the likes of John Karma and his pet parrot Cherry Baum? I’ve had it up to here with liars.

Amanda goes to continue, but Chandler holds his index finger up before shaking his head.

Chandler Scott: Oh, don’t you worry, Amanda. I’m now going to do your job for you. See, a fair and unbiased journalist would actually ask for my take on Salem instead of just trying to push this “Chandler fears James Edwards” narrative. So now I’m going to give you my thoughts on Salem. Truth be told, I think that Salem is probably the hotter of the two right now and no, I’m not just talking about looks. Ever since Salem kicked in the doors when she returned over the summer, she’s steadily moved up towards the top of FGA. And she didn’t do it with any broom. She didn’t do it with any spells and potions. She did it with her own talent. She was even able to wrestle the United States title off of her good buddy Savvy Tay Tay. Now Salem has got the opportunity to cover up that bare, lonely shoulder of hers with another piece of gold. My gold. You think she isn’t motivated? You think she doesn’t want to add her name to the exclusive list of double title holders in FGA’s history? Salem is going to give ol Jimmy the fight of her life. But you know what? James Edwards is going to give her one hell of a fight too. It should be a good one.

Amanda goes to interject, but Chandler once again cuts her off.

Chandler Scott: Nope, I’m not done yet. Because now I’m going to do what you should have started off this interview with. I respect the ability of the two people in the main event. I understand what’s at stake. But why should I focus all of my energy on them when instead, I should be focusing on the man standing directly in front of me. Of course, I’m talking about Terrence Tillman.

The crowd pops for Triple T

Chandler Scott: Did you hear that, Amanda? Did you hear the T-Unit come alive for their boy? You talk about Edwards and Salem? If Terrence Tillman pulls this thing off, then he would be more than justified in having his name thrown into the mix. Tillman has all the tools. Good size. He can talk. He’s got charisma. He can fly. He can do a little mat work. Triple T is the very definition of a five tool athlete. Tillman is the very definition of a blue chipper. The talent is clearly there. Only two men have ever held the 15 Championship twice and he’s one of them. Based off of pure athletic ability alone, Tillman is, what, Top 5 in all of FGA? Maybe Top 10? Me? I never had his gifts. Never in my life have I ever been as fast as Tillman. I can’t fly as high as him. I don’t have his agility. I don’t have his God given gifts. I had to grind to get this good. What you see in front of you is the result of years of hard work. What I will see standing across the ring is a man that is good, no doubt about it. But he’s not great. There’s still untapped potential. Well tonight, Tillman, I’m going to make you great. I want to see how far you’re willing to go. I’m going to make you up your game. I’m going to make you rise to the occasion. You, and the entire world, are going to find out a whole lot about yourself in that ring here tonight. Class will be in session, courtesy of yours truly. I hope you’re ready to soak up these gems, Tillman, because I’m going to be dropping some jewels in that ring… just before I drop you right on your head. Because at the end of the day, every head will bow and every tongue will confess that CHANDLER...REIGNS… SUPREME.

Another round of cheers and jeers can be heard. Chandler looks off into the distance with a satisfied smile before slowly turning back to Amanda. He gives her a pat on the shoulder.

Chandler Scott: Good work, Amanda. Good work...

With that, Chandler walks off while Amanda just shakes her head...

[FGA Office]

HEADLINE
★★★ NON-TITLE MATCH ★★★
Chandler Scott 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 235 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: Terrence Tillman is feeling it tonight! The Leader of the T-Unit is fired up. He knows what a win against the International Heavyweight Champion means. Tillman is no stranger to titles. But a win over Chandler Scott would catapult him to new heights. Triple T looks ready for the challenge!

The lights dim as the sound of a guitar plays throughout the arena. Gold lasers soon begin to shoot out from the stage. Once their attention has been captured, the crowd turns to the entryway to prepare for the man that's about to walk out. At the 25 second mark, “Animal Ghosts” bursts through the speakers. Chandler Scott pushes through the curtain to a loud ovation from the crowd.

Melanie Sierra: And his opponent, from Westwood, Massachusetts! Weighing in at 226 pounds! He is the reigning FGA International Heavyweight Champion… CHANDLER SCOTT!

Chandler swings his International Heavyweight Championship across his shoulder before making his way down the aisle. After slapping hands with one or two lucky fans, he leaps onto the apron and enters through the ropes. Chandler times his ascension onto the middle ropes with the beginning of the chorus. The crowd sings along with the chorus while he slowly raises the International Heavyweight Championship with one arm. When the chorus ends, Chandler hops off the middle ropes, turns and lands on his feet. Chandler holds the championship in his hands before slapping the center plate and handing it over to the referee. His theme music dies down while he waits the opening bell.

Geoff Penzer: Chandler Scott hasn’t exactly been making friends in recent weeks. Tensions were high between himself Johnny Karma and Cherry Baum. Show after show, Scott continues to be met with boos. He’s still being cheered. But those boo birds are not going away! There’s also some unresolved issues between him and James Edwards. But Scott can’t focus on Edwards or even the United States Champion, Salem. He can’t afford to overlook his immediate challenger in Terrence Tillman.

The bell sounds as Scott and Tillman lock up. After jockeying for position, Tillman places Scott in a side headlock. Scott then shoves Tillman off of him and into the ropes. When Tillman returns, he knocks Scott down with a running shoulder block. He then runs into another set of ropes as Scott returns to his feet. When Tillman returns, Scott tries to knock him down with a standing shoulder block. But Tillman doesn’t budge! Triple T then points Scott to the far ropes, as if to dare him to knock him down. Scott obliges and runs into the far ropes. When Scott returns, he tries to knock Tillman down with a running shoulder block. But Tillman remains on his feet! Tillman then slaps his chest three times and tells Scott to knock him down. Scott then turns and runs into the far ropes. When Scott returns, Tillman leapfrogs over him. Scott continues to run the ropes. When he comes back, Tillman (without turning around) leapfrogs over Scott again. Scott continues to run the ropes. When Scott returns, the crowd cheers when Tillman knocks Scott down with a dropsault. He then picks up Scott and whips him into another series of ropes. When Scott returns, Tillman knocks him down to the mat with a second dropsault! Triple T picks the DNA of FGA back up before whipping him into a third set of ropes. Tillman throws out a third dropsault. But this time, Scott hangs onto the ropes. Instead of crashing onto the canvas, Tillman is able to flip in the air and land on his feet!! When Scott runs over to attack, Tillman brings him down with an arm drag. A second arm drag sends Scott back down to the mat. After Tillman grabs him by the arm, the crowd cheers after he runs over towards the side of the ring, runs up to the top rope and brings Scott down with a springboard arm drag. The cheers continue until Scott rolls to the outside.

Geoff Penzer: Scott quickly heads to the outside to rethink his gameplan.

While Scott attempts to take a breather on the outside, Tillman turns and runs into the far ropes. When he comes back, he goes for a baseball slide. But Scott moves out of the way. When Tillman turns towards him, Scott throws out a right hand. But Tillman swats it away and counters with a roundhouse kick. While Scott is dazed, the crowd cheers when Tillman jumps up and brings him to the floor with the Top Tier Takedown (leaping reverse STO)! Tillman picks up Scott and rolls him back inside before Tillman leaps up onto the apron. The crowd explodes with cheers as Tillman begins to climb the turnbuckles!

Geoff Penzer: Terrence Tillman isn’t wasting a single second! Triple T wants to put this thing away right here, right now! What an upset this would be! Go, Tillman, go! Make a name for yourself, young man!

Once Tillman reaches the top, he flips off for the Skyfall (450 Splash)!


















But Scott rolls out of the way. Instead of crashing onto the mat, Tillman lands on his feet before his momentum sends him rolling forward. When Tillman rolls back to his feet and turns around, a mix of cheers and boos are heard when Scott runs over and brings him down with a Sling Blade! Scott picks up Tillman, marches into the corner and slams him face-first onto the top turnbuckle. After turning Tillman around, Scott rocks him with a hard European Uppercut before sitting him down on the top turnbuckle. Scott turns around, reaches back and places Tillman in a three quarter facelock before taking a few steps away from the corner. Scott has Tillman set up for the Mass Spike (top rope-hung cutter)! But before Scott can deliver the move, Tillman unhooks his legs and reverses into the Tillman Tap Out (Cobra Clutch)!

Geoff Penzer: Tillman’s got the TTO locked on! He’s got it locked in!

The crowd explodes with cheers when they see Scott locked in the submission. Tillman begins to cinch in the hold as the ref asks Scott if he wants to give up. Scott refuses. He then runs backwards and squashes Tillman into the corner! But he doesn’t break the hold!! Scott then takes a few steps away from the corner… only to run backwards and squash Tillman against the turnbuckles. This time, the hold is broken! Scott turns around and delivers a series of knife edge chops before rocking Tillman with another European Uppercut. He then brings Tillman from out of the corner before going for an irish whip. When Tillman returns, he sees Scott setting up for a back body drop. So Tillman counters with a sunset flip. However, Scott rolls through it. He quickly gets to his feet, holds up Tillman’s legs and steps through them to set up the Scott Lock (Scorpion Death Lock)! But before Scott can turn him over and fully apply the hold, Tillman uses the strength in his legs to shove Scott back, sending Scott stumbling into the corner. After Tillman returns to his feet, he runs over into the corner to attack. Scott ends up ducking the attack and dumping Tillman over the top rope. But instead of crashing to the floor, Tillman lands safely on the apron. When Scott turns around, Tillman goes for a shoulder thrust through the ropes. But Scott counters with a knee lift to the face! He then grabs Tillman, takes a few steps back, then runs towards the corner to try and slam Tillman face-first into the ring post. But Tillman blocks by putting his foot on the ring post. He then breaks free of Scott’s grip before grabbing him and slamming him face-first into the top turnbuckle. While Scott stumbles back, Tillman begins to climb the turnbuckles. As soon as Tillman reaches the top, Scott darts over, grabs Tillman by the right ankle and yanks him off the top rope! The crowd gasps when Tillman smacks the back of his neck against the top turnbuckle before dropping to the mat.

Geoff Penzer: Tillman with a hard fall! He looks like he’s shaken up!

Scott reaches down, pulls up Tillman, switches positions in the corner, hooks the arm and delivers a double underhook suplex into the turnbuckles! He rolls Tillman away from the corner and makes the cover.

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

Scott pulls up Tillman and whips him into the opposite corner. Scott then charges across the ring before nailing Tillman with a running European Uppercut. He then hoists Tillman up from the side before delivering a running backbreaker from out of the corner! While Tillman is sprawled out on the mat, Scott turns and heads into the ropes. When he returns, he connects with a running knee drop (with mid-air gesture)! The mix of cheers and boos continue as he makes the cover.

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

Scott sits up Tillman and kicks him square in the back. He then takes a few steps back before bouncing against the ropes. When Scott returns, he executes a rolling neck snap! He crawls back cover, pulls Tillman onto his back and makes the cover.

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

Tillman gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Another nearfall for the DNA of FGA! Tillman was clearly getting the better of Scott in the early going. But Scott has put a stop to that and has regained control.

Scott picks up Tillman and goes for a Shotgun Stunner. But Tillman’s able to slip down from behind. He then tries to go for a Tiger Suplex. But before Tillman hook Scott’s free arm, Scott nails him with repeated back elbows to the face. After performing a standing switch, he shoves Tillman into the ropes. When Triple T returns, Scott knocks him down with a pop-up European Uppercut! He makes the cover.

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

Tillman gets his shoulder up.

Scott picks up Tillman before bringing him back down with an arm trap neckbreaker! He makes the cover.

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

Tillman gets his shoulder up.

Scott sits up Tillman and applies a rear chinlock. The ref gets down and asks Tillman if he wants to give up. But Tillman refuses. Tillman begins to stir on the mat before turning over onto a knee. After slowly getting back up to a vertical base, Tillman nails Scott with repeated elbows to the midsection. Once the hold is broken, Tillman turns and heads into the ropes. When Tillman comes back, he puts on the brakes when he sees Scott run past him. When Tillman turns around, cheers and jeers are heard when Scott knocks him down with a springboard European Uppercut! He makes the cover.

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

The crowd cheers when Tillman gets his shoulder up.

Scott picks up Tillman, lifts him up and drops him with a Shotgun Stunner! After pulling Tillman up into a seated position, Scott turns and runs into the far ropes. When Scott returns, he throws out a Sliding D when Tillman rolls out of the way. When both grapplers return to their feet, Tillman throws out a kick to the midsection as Scott approaches. But Scott catches the foot. Tillman hops on one foot before knocking Scott down with a dragonwhip!

Geoff Penzer: What a kick! Scott just got right in the face with that one.

Tillman pushes himself up on all fours. Once he gets his second wind, he looks over and sees Scott trying to pick himself back up. So Triple T runs into the ropes. When he returns, he throws out the Terrific Kick (Scissors Kick). But Scott slips out of the way, grabs Tillman from behind and throws him into the turnbuckles. Scott then steps back towards the center of the ring. He runs forward to attack when Tillman knocks him back with a back elbow to the face. While Scott is dazed, the crowd cheers when Tillman follows up with the DDTripleT (Stylin DDT)! He turns over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Scott kicks out.

Tillman picks up Scott and goes for an irish whip. But Scott reverses, sending Tillman into the ropes. When Tillman returns, the crowd cheers when he knocks Scott down with a spinning heel kick! Tillman picks up Scott and whips him into the corner. After Scott crashes sternum-first into the top turnbuckle, he stumbles back towards Tillman, who knocks him down with another spinning heel kick! This time, to the back of the head. Scott tries to slowly push himself up off the mat. Once he gets up onto a knee, the crowd cheers when Tillman runs over and knocks him down with a Shining Wizard! He makes the cover.

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

Scott gets his shoulder up.

Tillman picks up Scott and goes for a brainbuster. But Scott blocks the move. Tillman tries to muscle Scott up for another brainbuster. This time, Scott blocks by dropping down to a knee. So Tillman lets go and delivers clubbing strikes across the back of the neck. After pulling Scott back up, Tillman doubles him over with a boot to the midsection before heading into the ropes. When Tillman returns, the crowd cheers when he knocks Scott the Terrific Kick! Tillman makes the cover.

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

Scott gets his shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: Terrence Tillman is taking it to the champion. He isn’t shying away from this moment!

Tillman picks up Scott and goes for an irish whip. But Scott reverses and follows Tillman across the ring. Instead of crashing into the corner, Tillman counters and knocks Scott down with the Terry-sault (double jump moonsault)! Tillman pulls Scott back up before whipping him into the ropes. When Scott returns, Tillman takes a few back before knocking him off his feet with the Chic Checka (savate kick)! He drops down and makes the cover.

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

Cheers and jeers are heard as Scott gets his shoulder up.

Tillman picks up Scott and doubles him over with multiple knee strikes to the midsection. The Leader of the T-Unit then turns and heads into the ropes. When Tillman returns, he knocks Scott upright with a knee lift before dropping him to a knee with a discus forearm smash! The cheers continue as Tillman pulls Scott back up before lifting him up for a brainbuster. But Scott’s able to slip down from behind. He then shoves Tillman off into the ropes. Scott jumps up for a frankensteiner. But he does so too early, allowing Tillman to hang onto the ropes and watch him crash back-first onto the canvas! Tillman heads over, pulls up Scott and whips him into the corner. Tillman runs, leaps from near the center of the ring and connects with a Corner Splash! The move is met with cheers from the crowd. Tillman then takes Scott and whips him into the far corner. He then runs, jumps from near the center of the ring and goes for another Corner Splash. This time, Scott moves out of the way, causing Tillman to crash into the turnbuckles! As Tillman stumbles back, Scott brings him down with a reverse Sling Blade! He then pulls Tillman up before whipping him into the ropes. When Tillman returns, Scott turns him inside out with a Pinpoint Dropkick! Scott picks Tillman back up before whipping him into the corner. The FGAce then runs over and nails Tillman with a European Uppercut! After sending Tillman into the far corner, Scott runs across the ring, jumps over and connects with a flying corner elbow smash! After hoisting Tillman up onto the top turnbuckle, Scott grabs him, takes a few step away from the corner and brings him down with the Mass Spike! He then drags Tillman back towards the center of the ring before bringing him to his feet. Scott hooks the arm, lifts Tillman up and plants him with the DNA Driver! He turns over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

A roar of cheers with some boos are heard when “Animal Ghosts” blasts over the PA.

Melanie Sierra: Here is your winner, CHANDLER SCOTT!

The mixed reaction continue as Chandler gets his arm raised in victory.

Geoff Penzer: Chandler Scott picks up the win here tonight over Terrence Tillman! Triple T gave it his best shot. But unfortunately for him, it was not enough to knock off the International Heavyweight Champion. Now Chandler gets to sit back and take a good, close look because up next, it’s our main event! Salem versus James Edwards! The winner will face Chandler at Final Frontier! We’ll be right back after this, folks!

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

12.29.18 & 12.30.18
New York City, NY
LIVE and ONLY on PAY PER VIEW

[FGA Office]

MAIN EVENT
★★★ #1 Contenders Match ★★★
Salem vs. James Edwards

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

Melanie Sierra: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is your main event of the evening! Introducing first, from Lexington, Kentucky! Weighing in at 204 pounds! He is “The Burning Heart”... JAMES EDWARDS!

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

Geoff Penzer: James Edwards has been chomping at the bit to get a crack at both the International Heavyweight Championship and Chandler Scott. A win here tonight will punch Edwards’ ticket for a championship match at Final Frontier!

"I'll get you my pretty... and your little dog too!"

The funky drum beat and riff of 'Phenomena' by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs fills the arena and the quirky yet energetic Salem appears at the entrance wearing a hooded dark purple cloak with silver trim, the hood pulled over her eyes. She carries a silver cane, the top a silver claw gripping a dark purple crystal that has a plasma globe effect. She's tapping her foot and bopping her head to the beat, showing off the shiny title belt around her waist...

She unstraps the belt and raises it over head in both hands and motions for the fans to get hyped, dropping the belt over her shoulder and swinging the cane, then bops her way toward the ring in time with the song, popping her shoulders up and down, swaying her arms around with a coy smile and wink to the audience.

She steps up the ring steps, throws her hood back, clutches the top rope and puts her feet on the bottom rope, gazing around and rocking up and down on the ropes...

She slides through the ropes, twirls off her cloak with a flourish and drops to a knee in the center of the ring placing the belt down in front of her, extending her arms out holding up the cane and playing to the crowd as the music fades. She hands the title belt to the referee and takes the cloak and cane to the corner, ready for the match.

Melanie Sierra: From Laval, Quebec, Canada... She is the reigning United States Champion… "Something Like a Phenomena"... SALEM!!!

Geoff Penzer: Salem been on quite the roll over the last few months and has even recently won the United States Championship. But now Salem finds herself with yet another championship opportunity. Should Salem defeat Edwards here tonight, then it will be Champion versus Champion at Final Frontier! Not title versus title! Which would mean that Salem would have everything to gain and nothing to lose! Can the Witch pull off another bit of magic here in tonight’s main event!?

The bell sounds as Salem and Edwards circle the ring before locking up. After jockeying for position, Edwards quickly overpowers Salem and moves her into the corner. The ref scurries over and gives them until the count of five to break it up.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE… FOUR…

As soon as both grapplers make a clean break, Edwards takes Salem and whips her into the far corner. The Burning Heart runs across the ring to attack when Salem comes out of the corner and sends him flipping down to the canvas with a kitchen sink. She then picks Edwards back up before shooting him off into the ropes. When Edwards returns, Salem knocks him down with a hard chest kick! When Edwards gets back to his feet, the cheers continue as Salem sends him flipping down to the canvas with a Ipponzeoi (one-armed shoulder throw)! She then pulls Edwards up onto his knees before delivering a series of hard chest kicks that echo throughout the arena! The Witch steps back and throws out a roundhouse kick to the head, which Edwards ducks. The Burning Heart scrambles back to his feet, grabs Salem from behind, runs and chucks her over the top rope. But instead of crashing onto the floor, Salem lands safely on the apron. When Edwards turns around, he sees Salem on the apron. So he runs over to attack when Salem springboards to the top rope, jumps off and knocks him down with a missile dropkick! The cheers continue as she makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Edwards kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Salem with the first nearfall of this opponent contest...

Salem picks up Edwards and knocks him back against the ropes with knife edge chops. She then steps off to the side before nailing him with another hard chest kick! Salem then hooks Edwards’ arms around the top rope before nailing him with another hard chest kick!

*Pop!*

And another hard chest kick…

*Pop!*

Then another…

*Pop!*

While Edwards lays in pain against the ropes, The Phenomena turns and runs into the far ropes. When Salem returns, the crowd explodes with cheers when she connects with a Cactus Clothesline, sending them both over the top rope and crumbling to the floor!

Geoff Penzer: Salem just sent both her and Edwards tumbling down hard to the outside!

Salem pulls herself up on the edge of the apron before climbing up onto it. She takes a few steps back as she sizes up Edwards. Once Edwards gets back to his feet, Salem runs along the apron and throws out a penalty kick. But Edwards blocks by grabbing her leg! He then takes control of the leg and yanks it out from underneath her. Salem goes up into the air before crashing back-first onto the apron. Salem bounces off the apron before falling to the floor.

Geoff Penzer: Salem wanted to kick Edwards’ head about ten rows back. But “The Burning Heart” had others ideas...

Edwards picks up Salem, hooks the arm and delivers a butterfly suplex on the outside!

Geoff Penzer: Double underhook suplex right onto the floor! There’s padding there, but not much! That still hurts, ladies and gentlemen!

The Burning Heart picks up Salem and rolls her back inside. He then slides back in to make the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Salem kicks out.

Edwards pulls up Salem and delivers a snap suplex! He then turns over into a lateral press.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Salem kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Edwards stays on top of Salem with another nearfall. But it only gets two.

Edwards picks up Salem, places her in a waist lock from behind and goes for a German Suplex. But Salem blocks the move. So Edwards tries to muscle her up for another German but again, Salem blocks it. She then nails Edwards with multiple back elbows to the face until the waist lock is broken. Once she’s free, the US Champion motions to run towards the far ropes. But Edwards reaches out, grabs the wrist, yanks Salem back over towards him and throws her down with a German Suplex! The cheers continue as he pulls Salem over and makes the cover.

Geoff Penzer: Edwards was bound and determined to hit that German Suplex. Could this be enough for three!?

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

Edwards pulls up Salem. The crowd gasps when he quickly slips behind her and goes for another German! This time, Salem is able to rotate and land on her feet!! When Edwards gets back to his feet, she executes a superkick feint before following up with a rapid knee lift with the opposite leg. While Edwards is doubled over, Salem follows up with a low dropkick to the knee. Salem then runs into the ropes. When she comes back, the crowd cheers when she brings Edwards down with a somersault cutter! The cheers continue as she pushes Edwards over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Edwards kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Salem’s back in control now after slowing down Edwards with those attacks to the lower body.

Salem picks up Edwards and knocks him back with knife edge chops to the chest. She then takes Edwards and whips him into the far corner. Salem runs across the ring to attack when Edwards ducks and dumps her over the top rope. But once again, Salem lands safely on the apron. When Edwards turns around, Salem knocks him back with a palm strike. She then scales to the top turnbuckle, leaps off and goes for a diving overhead chop when Edwards catches her on the way down and counters with a Sambo Suplex! The cheers continue as he makes the cover.

Geoff Penzer: What a counter by Edwards! Will this be enough!?

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

Edwards picks up Salem, lifts her up and plants her with the Foxfire (fisherman brainbuster) to an explosion of cheers from the crowd! He makes the cover.

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

The crowd cheers when Salem gets her shoulder up!

The Burning Heart pulls up Salem, hooks her arm from behind and nearly drops her right on the back of the neck with the Half-Cut (half nelson suplex)! Edwards pulls her over and makes the cover.

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

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

Geoff Penzer: I thought that would be it! But no! Salem is still in it! The United States Champion is still in this contest!

Edwards slowly pulls up Salem from off the apron. He then slowly hooks one arm.. Then the second… and heaves her over his head, leaving her folded up on the mat with a release Dragon Suplex!!! Edwards heads over, pushes Salem over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THR

Geoff Penzer: NO!

The crowd gasps, then cheers when Salem gets her shoulder up!

Geoff Penzer: Salem got her shoulder up! Salem, somehow, avoided another three count! James Edwards can’t believe it!

Edwards slowly pulls Salem back to her feet. He nails her with one spinning backfist. Then a second to complete the Double Tap! Once a dazed Salem plops down into the seated position, the crowd gasps.

Geoff Penzer: OOOOOO, HERE WE GO!

Cheers follows as they know what Salem is in perfect position for. And so does Edwards!

Geoff Penzer: JAMES EDWARDS CAN FEEL IT! SALEM IS RIPE FOR THE PICKING!

The Burning Heart turns and runs into the far ropes. When Edwards comes back, he throws out the Violent Gospel (Running PK). But Salem blocks by wrapping her arm around Edwards’ leg! Edwards then reaches down and bashes Salem with hammerfists to the head! Once Edwards breaks free, he takes a few steps back before throwing out another Violent Gospel!! This time, Salem leans back to avoid the kick before quickly reaching up and pulling him down with a schoolboy!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Edwards kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Salem nearly got him!

After both grapplers return to a vertical base, Edwards motions for a strike. Salem tries to cut him off with a high impact spinning backfist! But Edwards ducks, quickly grabs Salem and dumps her on her head with a Backdrop Suplex!

Geoff Penzer: OOOOH! Edwards with the Backdrop! My goodness!

The cheers continue as he pulls Salem over and makes the cover.

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

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

Geoff Penzer: Salem is unbelievable! UN-BE-LIEVABLE the fight we’re seeing out of our United States Champion!

LET’S GO, SALEM!
*CLAP-CLAP, CLAP-CLAP-CLAP*

LET’S GO, EDWARDS!
*CLAP-CLAP, CLAP-CLAP-CLAP*

LET’S GO, SALEM!
*CLAP-CLAP, CLAP-CLAP-CLAP*

LET’S GO, EDWARDS!
*CLAP-CLAP, CLAP-CLAP-CLAP*

LET’S GO, SALEM!
*CLAP-CLAP, CLAP-CLAP-CLAP*

LET’S GO, EDWARDS!
*CLAP-CLAP, CLAP-CLAP-CLAP*

Geoff Penzer: This capacity crowd is split right down the middle for these two fan favorites!

Edwards slowly pulls Salem up off the mat before turning and running into the ropes. When The Burning Heart returns, he throws Salem down with a running STO! He then drags Salem into position before stepping out onto the apron and climbing the top turnbuckles.

Geoff Penzer: James Edwards has had enough of this! He’s had enough of these close calls! It’s time to put this thing away!

Once Edwards reaches the top, he leaps off and goes for a diving headbutt! But Salem pulls her knees up and rolls back, causing Edwards to crash face-first into the knees!

Geoff Penzer: OOOOOOH MYYYY GOOOODNESSSS!!! Edwards just came flying down onto those knees! He looks hurt! Wait, he might be out! JAMES EDWARDS IS OUT!

The crowd cheers as Salem slowly pulls him over and makes the cover.

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

The crowd gasps, then cheers when Edwards gets his shoulder up!

Geoff Penzer: What a nearfall! Salem was almost there! A half a second away!

Salem picks up Edwards, runs into the corner and slams him face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning Edwards around, Salem sends him slumping down in the corner with hard chest kicks! She then unleashes a barrage of rapid fire alternating elbows strikes while Edwards is seated in the corner!! The Witch slowly pulls Edwards back up before sending him into the far corner with an irish whip. The US Champion runs across the ring, connects with a corner space rolling elbow and follows up with a one-handed bulldog out of the corner! The cheers continue as she pushes Edwards over and makes the cover.

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

The crowd cheers when Edwards gets his shoulder up!

Salem grabs Edwards by the arm and slowly drags him towards the side of the ring. She then rolls to the outside, reaches back in and drags Edwards so that he’s hung across the apron. After climbing back up onto the apron, the crowd cheers when Salem runs over and delivers a knee drop to the back of the head! The move causes them both to fall off the apron and land on the floor! Salem pulls herself back up using the edge of the apron before rolling back inside. Once she slowly gets back to her feet, she turns and sees Edwards trying to pick himself up on the outside. So Salem turns and runs into the far ropes. When she comes back, the crowd explodes with cheers as she knocks Edwards down with a slingshot plancha!

Geoff Penzer: The Witch takes it to the air, without the use of her broom, and wipes out James Edwards!

Salem picks up Edwards and rolls him back inside. After climbing up onto the apron, Salem begins to climb the turnbuckles. As soon as she gets a foot up on the top turnbuckle, Edwards turns over, runs up onto the middle rope and grabs Salem for a superplex! But Salem blocks the move. So Edwards tries to muscle her up for another superplex. But again, Salem blocks the move. When Edwards lets go, Salem hits Edwards with elbow strikes to the face! After grabbing Edwards by the hair with both hands and slamming him down back-first onto the apron, the crowd explodes with cheers when Salem brings him down with a sunset flip powerbomb!!! The ref slides over and makes the count.

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

The crowd gasps, then explodes with cheers when Edwards gets his shoulder up!

Geoff Penzer: How did James Edwards get his shoulder up!? How was that not three!? HOW!?

Salem slowly pulls up Edwards. The crowd gasps and cheers when Salem slowly lifts him up across her shoulders!

Geoff Penzer: What in the world…

The Witch slowly makes her way towards the center of the ring one step at a time! She’s about to go for the Ushigoroshi when Edwards counters with an elbow to the side of the head! After slipping down from behind, Edwards throws her down with a release reverse Exploder Suplex!! Edwards turns over and pulls Salem up into a seated position before turning to run into the ropes. When Edwards returns he throws out the Violent Gospel. This time, Salem rolls out of the way! When Edwards turns around, Salem gets up and runs over to attack. Edwards tries to cut her off with a spinning backfist. But Salem ducks and heads into the ropes. When Edwards turns around, Salem throws out the New Hampshire Handshake (high velocity leaping elbow strike). But Edwards slips out of the way, causing Salem to strike the referee by accident!

Geoff Penzer: NOOO!

Before Salem can turn around, Edwards grabs her from behind for a German Suplex. But Salem counters back elbows to the face. After performing a standing switch, Salem spins Edwards towards her and catches him with a high impact spinning backfist! After doubling him over with a boot to the midsection, the crowd explodes with cheers when Salem hooks the arms before bringing Edwards down with the Highjack Kevorkian (Berkocet)!

Geoff Penzer: Edwards is down! Edwards is down! Edwards is down! Could this be it right here!? Is Salem moments away from an International Heavyweight Championship match!?

The capacity crowd is on their feet as Salem pushes Edwards over and makes the cover. But the referee isn’t there to make the cover.

Geoff Penzer: The ref is still down!

Salem continues to cover Edwards with a lateral press. Suddenly, a commotion can be seen in the crowd.

Geoff Penzer: What’s going on… OH NO!

The crowd erupts with boos as Savannah Taylor slides into the ring. While Salem still covers Edwards, Taylors runs up from behind the unsuspecting Salem, leaps up and drives her face-first into the canvas with a Curb Stomp! The boos continue as Taylor lifts up Salem before planting her head-first with the Siren’s Song (Scissored DDT)! The Las Vegas Siren slips out of the ring before casually making her way back up the ramp.

Geoff Penzer: Savannah Taylor had no business being out here!! What the hell is here damn deal, anyway! What the heck!

Taylor stays at the top of the ramp and looks at the Frontier Tron. Back in the ring, a barely conscious Edwards slowly pushes himself up off the canvas before draping his shoulder across Salem’s chest. The ref begins to stir on the mat. Once the official comes to, he slowly turns over and sees Edwards making the cover. He then slaps the mat for the count…

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd explodes with cheers as “My Name is Human” blasts over the PA.

Melanie Sierra: Here is your winner and the new number one contender to the International Heavyweight Championship, JAMES EDWARDS!

The cheers continue as the ref reaches down and raises Edwards’ arm in victory.

Geoff Penzer: James Edwards has gotten himself the victory! He will now head to Final Frontier to challenge for the International heavyweight Championship! James Edwards fought one hell of a match and so did Salem. But it didn’t need to be tainted by that damn Savannah Taylor. Edwards didn’t have any idea this would happen. I don’t even think he realizes what’s happened. I think he just covered Salem purely off instinct. You can’t fault James for this. This isn’t his fault. But that Savannah Taylor? If I were her, I’d watch my back because once Salem comes to and realizes what happened, she’s going to be dealing with one pissed off Witch! For everyone here on Flashpoint, this is Geoff Penzer signing off. Goodnight, everyone. Until next time...