Flashpoint (07.15.19)

[FGA Office]

As Flashpoint returns from the commercial break, "Take A Chance" by CFO$ plays over the PA system of the Santa Ana Star Center, instantly creating a buzz amongst the crowd, and the cheers only increase in volume as Neal Durden walks out through the curtains, followed closely by Lowri Moss. Dressed casually, with their titles over their shoulders and smiles on their faces, the Welsh tandem stand side by side on the stage for a moment, surveying the crowd and savouring the reception.

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the FGA World Tag Team Champions, Neal Durden and Lowri Moss… PEENNNNDRAAAAGON!

They slowly make their way towards the ring, with Neal leading the way on one side of the aisle, while Lowri is on the other side, both doing their best to slap hands with each of the fans that reach out to them.

Geoff Penzer: Two weeks ago, Lowri Moss and Neal Durden followed up their victory at Only The Strong Survive by successfully defending their newly won titles against the former champions, the Chaotics. Over the course of the past several months, those two teams went through a series of fierce battles that are sure to live long in the memory, but ultimately, it was Pendragon who proved themselves to be the better team.

After climbing the steps and entering the ring, Lowri heads for one of the corners, climbs to the second rope, and holds her belt aloft as she looks out at the cheering fans, while Neal simply stands in the middle of the ring with his index finger up and a smirk on his face.

Geoff Penzer: While Pendragon may have come out on top against the Chaotics, they’ll know that there are a number of other teams who’ll be champing at the bit to get a chance to knock them off their perch, but for now though, as that gesture from Neal Durden would appear to indicate, they are the number one team here on Flashpoint, and arguably the arguably the number one team in the whole of FGA.

Lowri goes to collect a pair of microphones, one of which she hands to Neal, and as their music fades out, they glance around at the fans present inside the venue, basking in their cheers.

Lowri Moss: What’s occurring, Rio Rancho?

That draws the anticipated cheap pop.

Lowri Moss: You know, when Neal and I were drafted to Flashpoint at the beginning of the year, we didn’t waste any time making our intentions known. Having been the first ever United States Tag Team Champions over on Vertigo, our aim once we switched brands was simple: to dethrone the Chaotics, and become the new FGA World Tag Team Champions. It was a goal that we made clear on our first night here in the Flashpoint Zone, and although it may have taken us a little longer than we would’ve liked to accomplish, with at least one complication along the way, our focus never wavered, nor did our belief that we were capable of being the ones to end Ashlyn and Logan’s record-breaking reign. We remained resolute in our ambitions, we persevered, and in the end, we achieved our goal. And after we won again two weeks ago, we’re proud to be able to stand here now--

Lowri removes her title from her shoulder.

Lowri Moss: As your World Tag Team Champions.

She then raises her belt in the air, Neal doing likewise with his, eliciting loud cheers from the crowd once more. As Neal lowers the belt back to his shoulder, he takes the word from Lowri.

Neal Durden: Yet, there’s one detail we must solve now...

Neal takes a second as he moves to the ropes, as if to hear what the crowd is yelling. He looks at Lowri and then continues speaking.

Neal Durden: We need challengers!

As Neal says that the crowd explodes in chants calling for all sorts of teams. Both Neal and Lowri smile at this reaction, as Neal continues speaking.

Neal Durden: We know Dynamic Duos is coming up, we know the prize is to potentially challenge us for these belts…

Lowri interrupts him mid-sentence.

Lowri Moss: And we’ve already had a few people from outside of FGA tell us they’ve put their names forward for Dynamic Duos, all because they would love an opportunity to challenge us for our titles.

Neal Durden: But we can’t wait that long to know our challengers. We want to defend these titles in as many matches as we can. We’re fighting champions and we’re gonna prove it, like we proved it with the FGA US tag team titles.

Neal looks towards Lowri, who gives him a nod.

Lowri Moss: It still feels like it has been just a couple of weeks since Only The Strong Survive took place, but already All-Star Showdown is fast approaching.

She then pauses, letting out a small sigh.

Lowri Moss: Twelve months ago, at All-Star Showdown VII, the two of us missed out on getting to defend the United States tag titles, nor did I get to defend the Mid-Atlantic Legacy title. Instead, the two of us were involved in a clusterfu-udge of an eight team tag match, as we got caught up in the petty conflict between two ego-driven general managers, both of whom have long since lost their jobs. This year though, we have no such distractions; in a few weeks’ time in LA, you will get to see us defend our titles.

The fans cheer that declaration, and Lowri smiles as she continues.

Lowri Moss: And of course, we already know who we’re going to be defending them against.

Neal nods in agreement with Lowri, before a wide grin appears on his face.

Neal Durden: YEEEEEES!

His enthusiasm becomes more and more palpable with each passing second as he then gets back on the microphone and speaks.

Neal Durden: This is one of those matches that you won’t want to miss. One of those that happens every now and again. One you might call a dream. In fact it is MY dream match. The one I’ve wanted since the moment Lowri and I began to make a name for ourselves as a team…

Neal looks at Lowri, as if to see if she has something to say, but with a smile on her face, she simply gestures for him to shout it out.

Neal Durden: Of course, I’m talking about the SUPER MARIO WRESTLING BROS!

The mention of the SMWB makes the crowd pop big time as both Lowri and Neal stand in the middle of the ring, their titles over their shoulders and a wide smile in each of their faces.

Neal Durden: So, the challenge has been laid. Max, Landon… if you will, we invite you to the ring!

The crowd’s attention jumps to the entrance way as soon as “Rockit” starts pumping through the speakers. The theme music continues to permeate over the speakers as the fans anticipate the arrival of the presumed challengers for the World tag team titles. The arena lights dim before a combination of red, blue, green and yellow lights pulsate throughout the venue.

At the top of the ramp appear the Super Mario Wrestling Bros! The tandem steps through the curtain to a roar of cheers from the crowd. Max Powers and Landon Knight each head to a side of the stage and look out at the crowd. They then high five each other as they switch side before looking out at the cheering crowd once more. The SMWB proceed to make their way down the aisle. Max takes the right side and slaps hands with some lucky fans while Landon does the same on the left side.

Landon runs up the steps while Max uses his knees to climb up onto the apron. Landon continues to nod his as he jams to the music before stepping inside the squared circle. Max quickly follows him through the ropes. The music begins to die down, but the crowd is still as hot as ever at the sight of Pendragon and the SMWB in the same ring. Both teams take note of the dueling chants that soon fill the arena.

PEN-DRA-GON!
S-M-W-B!

PEN-DRA-GON!
S-M-W-B!

PEN-DRA-GON!
S-M-W-B!

The adoring crowd lets out another round of cheers and applause for both teams. The show of support is appreciated by both teams, as evidenced by the looks on the faces of all four competitors.

Max Powers: No disrespect to any of the teams over on Vertigo. But I think all of these fans here in the Flashpoint Zone would agree that you two are the best team here in FGA!

A roar of cheers emanate from the crowd after Max’s endorsement.

Max Powers: For over a year, The Chaotics had a stranglehold on the World tag team titles. I don’t say that disrespectfully. I say it truthfully because for over a year, they defeated every team that they went up against...

Landon Knight: ... until they stood in the ring against you two.

More cheers from the crowd.

Landon Knight: You two defeated a team that from the summer of 2017 through this past May were the dominant duo in all of FGA. Whether it was Vertigo or Flashpoint... the World Tag Team Titles or the U. S. Tag Titles, The Chaotics were the standard of tag team wrestling in FGA.

Landon Knight: ... and you beat em. Twice! That’s what makes you guys the best team going in FGA today, ‘cause you went in there and beat the best!

The crowd continues its support of Pendragon with cheers and applause.

Landon Knight: Once you beat The Chaotics for a second time, you had your pick of teams here in the Flashpoint Zone. You two coulda laid out the challenge to anyone. Baewatch...

YAAAAAAY!

Max Powers: Bristow and Barnes...

BOOOOOO!

Landon Knight: Triple A...

YAAAAAAY!

Max Powers: You coulda gone outside the box with the former Invictus Fight Club or even Salem and Nina Stokes. Instead, you challenged the Red ‘n’ Green Machine.

Applause from the crowd.

Landon Knight: Well if it’s a challenge you two want, it’s a challenge you’re gonna get in Los Angeles!

The crowd pops at the announcement of Pendragon vs. Super Mario Wrestling Bros being made official.

Max Powers: But let’s make just one thing clear here to all the Mario Bros and Broettes in the crowd tonight. You guys didn’t choose the SMWB. We earned a shot at those titles by winning the Title Eliminator. Come All-Star Showdown, we’ll earn those titles again by beating you two in the ring, fair and square.

Sone light cheers come from the crowd. Landon continues...

Landon Knight: It’s gonna be an honor to share the ring with the two of you. It’s been a long time since FGA has had a tag team title match, on either show, where there was mutual respect on both sides. It’s been a long time since these great fans saw a big time tag team match where the two teams weren’t trying to sneak each other or trying to tear each other down. We’re gonna go into that match with a great deal of respect for each other. I’d like to think that we’re both gonna leave with an even greater level of respect. But make no mistake about it. Only one of us is leaving Los Angeles with those Tag Team Titles.

Max Powers: ... and that’s us.

Neal smirks and puts his belt in front of him, hanging it between him and the SMWB. He then picks up the microphone and speaks.

Neal Durden: Max, Landon… this has been a dream match for me, for as long as anyone can attest to it. You two did, indeed, earn your shot and we couldn’t pass the opportunity up. But, for as much respect and admiration as I have for you two. For as great as your matches are and for as great this match will be… I think Lowri made it loud and clear that we’re not going to relinquish these belts.

Neal’s usual carefree demeanor turns more serious as he grabs the belt tight and raises it over his head.

Neal Durden: We fought too hard to get these. We’ve left it all in this very ring to be considered one of, if not, the best tag team in FGA. We’ve clawed our way into the pantheon of great tag teams around the world… and now, we’re going to defend them to the last drop of blood, sweat and tears in our body.

He puts the belt down in the ring and steps over it, standing face to face with Max Powers.

Neal Durden: And the only way you’re walking out of All-Star Showdown with these belts is over our dead bodies.

Lowri remains silent, appearing to be somewhat taken aback by the tone of Neal’s assertion. Nevertheless, she displays her support for her other half, by moving to stand beside him.

Geoff Penzer: Defiant statements from both champions and challengers! Our World Tag Team Championship match for All-Star Showdown is set, and judging by the fans’ reaction, the sense of anticipation for this one is palpable.

Indeed, there is an obvious buzz in the crowd yet again, as the two teams stare down each other, before the scene then cuts away.

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

Jimmy Page is seen clutching a microphone close to his chest, thumping it so that the sound is audible for the Rio Rancho crowd to hear. He’s backstage, standing behind a monitor with the Flashpoint logo on it with the lighting a bit dim to contrast with the bright orange. Page keeps his eyes down, showing the scar on his head beginning to scab and heal over. He keeps thumping his chest with the mic, trying to collect himself before he speaks. Finally, he takes a slow, calm breath and looks into the screen.

Jimmy Page: Y’know, I um...whenever I get into fights, it feels like my heart’s pounding through my ears. I can taste the adrenaline running through my mouth, it’s kinda...it’s weird. I get these goosebumps, my nerves get so bad that I shake, sometimes I don’t feel like a human being, sometimes when I get into fights, I feel like an animal having to fight for survival.

Page pauses, contemplating something, his face turns somber a bit, thumping the mic slightly to his chest once more and he shrugs.

Jimmy Page: Felt that way with Scott; Feels that way with everyone, honestly. Everyone’s got some mundane reason as to why they want a piece of me. They see me as a mountain to claim so they can plant their flag, and so when they do they wanna leave their mark. Chandler Scott caused me to go partially blind in my eye, he caved my skull in, he left me impotent for almost a year. Savannah Taylor…?

Page shakes his head looking around, almost disappointed at how low Taylor would go just to prove something so arbitrary.

Jimmy Page: You know, I thought Savannah was different. I really, really thought she meant what she said. All her accolades, the loyalty she’s shown to this brand, wanting to have that stamp as the best in the business. She was driven, ambitious, and I couldn’t hate that. I couldn’t hate someone wanting to be the best. No drama, no B.S., just two competitors going at it for the top prize. I lost that night...I lost and I can graciously accept that she was better than me! I can take that on the chin and keep pushing! That’s the kind of man I wanna be known as! That…

Page claws his hair out of his face as the scar on his head is shown in full view. Page points at his wound.

Jimmy Page: It turns out everything about her was a lie. All that crap she spewed about wanting to right the wrongs I’ve done over the years was nothing short of lies!! She’s a vindictive and vain person, and now I can see why Chandler Scott loved her so much. Misery loves company and vice versa! She could’ve left me there, she could’ve celebrated her win, Hell I would’ve even welcomed a handshake.

Jimmy’s templed bulge from biting down on his teeth so hard as he glares into the camera.

Jimmy Page: But instead, I tasted my own blood; Instead she decided to kick me while I was down; Instead she made this about herself and thought that she could do whatever she wanted now that she wounded the big bad Jimmy Page!! WELL SHE THOUGHT WRONG!!! SHE THOUGHT WRONG!!!

Page begins to furiously thumping the mic on his chest as he begins to pace back and forth. He holds a hand up, his thoughts racing a mile a minute. His held up hand forms a quivering index finger as if he had discovered a point in his volatile mind.

Jimmy Page: SEE...Y...YOU SEE I DIDN’T WANT THIS!!! I NEVER DO, IT’S PEOPLE LIKE YOU WHO DO!! YOU PUSH AND YOU PUSH AND YOU PUSH AND YOU PUSH AND FINALLY WHEN I PUSH BACK; WHEN I FINALLY DECIDED ENOUGH IS ENOUGH I GET LABELED!!! NO!!! NO MORE!!! TAYLOR...I WANT YOU TO COUNT YOUR LUCKY STARS, THAT EACH NIGHT I’M NOT IN A TOWN YOU’RE WORKING!!! I WANT YOU TO THANK YOUR BLESSED FATES THAT I HAVEN’T DECIDED TO RIP THAT BELT FROM YOUR CLAWS AND BEAT YOU WITH IT!!!!

Page, seething in anger keeps his eyes locked on the camera.

Jimmy Page: ALL-STAR SHOWDOWN VIII...AT THE STAPLE CENTER IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA..THAT’S YOUR EXPIRATION DATE!!! THAT NIGHT IS GOING TO BE THE NIGHT I TAKE THAT FGA INTERNATIONAL HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP BACK THROUGH BLOOD AND BONE!!! BECAUSE I’M MAKING THAT CHOICE, JUST LIKE YOU HAD THE CHOICE NOT TO MAKE IT THIS!!!

Jimmy quietly calms down, but not by a lot as a visible scowl is formed on his face. He points directly at the camera as his eyes begin to show a deep level of anger in them.

Jimmy Page: First Blood, I’m going to make it a point to you, and everyone like you Savannah...that when you hunt your game...you better hope they don’t hunt you BACK.

Page tosses the mic and walks off camera, ending the scene.

[FGA Office]

The camera moves to the backstage area, where Amanda Johnson is stood waiting alongside none other than Cassius Reed.

Amanda Johnson: Hello folks, I’m joined tonight by none other than Cassi-

Cassius Reed: HOLD IT.

Amanda stops abruptly, head swinging to look at her guest.

Cassius Reed: Cassius is damn well capable of introducing himself, thank you.

He takes the microphone from her. She resists a moment, but an eyeroll indicates that she decides it’s really not worth it as he takes the microphone from her.

Cassius Reed: LADIES AND GENTLEMEN. YOU HAVE THE GREAT HONOR OF BEING JOINED TONIGHT BY VERITABLE TOURNAMENT ROYALTY. THE MAN WITH A SOLID GOLD NAME. THE GLORY HUNTER. THE VANILLA THRILLA. THE PUPPET MASTER. THE SNAKE EATER. THE DEVIL KILLER. THE FUNKY DRAGON. THE EBONY SALMON. THE GUY YOUR GIRLFRIEND WISHES WAS BANGIN’ HER. THE GUY YOUR BOYFRIEND WISHES HE WAS BANGIN’. THE COFFEE IN YOUR COFFEE. MOMMA REED’S FAVORITE SON. CASSIUS REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE-

He pauses a moment to take a breath, which extends to also taking a swig from a bottle of water, all the while holding a finger up in front of Amanda’s face, gesturing for her to wait.

Cassius Reed: -EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD.

He hands the microphone back to Amanda, almost dropping it as she takes it from him.

Cassius Reed: And that’s how it’s done.

Amanda Johnson: OK. Sure. Anyway… tonight we see tag team action featuring all four competitors for the 15 Championship, ahead of their upcoming Ladder Match. Cassius, how do you feel about having to team with one of your fellow challengers tonight, in Sloan Talbot.

Cassius Reed: How do you think Cassius feels girl? How do you think he feels about sharing the glory with this sucka? CASSIUS DIDN’T SIGN UP FOR NO TAG TEAM TOURNAMENT. SAVE THAT SH*T FOR THE DYNAMIC DUOS. Nah, Cassius here for the 15 Tournament, and that’s it. And at All-Star Showdown, Cassius is winning it.

Amanda Johnson: It’s not a tourname-

Cassius Reed: OH NO. DON’T YOU BRING THAT NEGATIVE ATTITUDE TO THE PROCEEDINGS. You don’t think TOURNAMENT DEITY CASSIUS REED knows what’s a tournament and what ain’t. Do I need to do your jobs for you? To school you in the NUMEROUS tournaments Cassius has won? It’s got multiple people in it. It has steps you have to pass in order to get to the next. There’s a shiny trophy type thing at the end of it. And Cassius is about to win it. THUSLY IT’S A TOURNAMENT. It’s simple math Cassius don’t understand why you people have such difficulty understanding this.

Amanda Johnson: But-

Cassius Reed: But Cassius no buts. Unless they belong to Cassius’ FINE-ASS wife. It’s negative thinking like this why you never won no tournaments yourself Amanda.

Amanda Johnson: I’ve never even entered any!

Cassius Reed: AND THAT ATTITUDE AIN’T GOIN’ TO WIN YOU NONE EITHER.

Amanda Johnson: I give up.

Cassius Reed: AND CASSIUS WINS AGAIN.

Amanda Johnson: WHAT EVEN IS THIS?

Cassius Reed: And if you, the viewers at home, wish to see Cassius continue his winning streak all the way to the finals of this tournament, stay tuned! It’s going to be a great time. Back to you Geoff.

Cassius just turns and leaves, leaving Amanda more than a little confused at what’s just happened, shaking her head, and crying on the inside.

[FGA Office]

★★★ TAG TEAM MATCH ★★★
Ashley Sullivan & Jaelynn Ramsey vs. Sloan Talbot & Cassius Reed

Ramsy and Talbot start off the match for their respective teams. After circling the ring, Talbot and Ramsey motion for a lock up until Ramsey backs out at the last second. They circle the ring once more before motioning for another lock up. Once again, Ramsey backs out at the last second. Talbot then starts to cut off the ring. Realizing that she’s got no choice but to engage, she moves forward. Both grapplers motion for a lock up until Ramsey ducks under the collar-and-elbow attempt. At this point, Talbot can’t help but to show his frustration. Ramsey continues to keep her distance as she circles the ring. They then inch towards inch other and motion for another lock up hen Ramsey slaps Talbot across the face! Enraged, Talbot stalks Ramsey across the ring. Ramsey continues to back away from Talbot until she quickly turns around, tags Sullivan in and drops to the mat before slipping to the outside!

Sullivan looks at Ramsey before getting socked with a right hand from Talbot. He then brings Sullivan back inside with Enter Tragedy (superplex from the apron) for a two count)! Talbot then takes Sullivan by the hair and flings her across the ring. He marches over, yanks Sullivan back to her feet and flings her across the ring once more. After Sullivan is whipped into the ropes, Talbot brings her down with a hip toss neckbreaker. Instead of making the cover, Talbot marches across the ring and tries to go after Ramsey. But she wisely hops down to the mat. Talbot continues to stare a hole through Ramsey when Sullivan leaps onto his back and applies a Sleeper. Sullivan keeps the hold applied until Talbot reaches up, grabs her by the hair and throws her down in front of him. Talbot reaches down, grabs Sullivan by her throat, pulls her back to her feet and goes for a chokeslam. But Sullivan is able to block with a back elbow to the side of the head. She then turns, hits the ropes, comes back and brings Talbot down with a one-handed bulldog for a two count. Talbot reverses an irish whip and sends Sullivan into the ropes. Instead of coming back, Sullivan hangs onto the ropes, rushes over and returns the favor by tagging Ramsey back in. Ramsey sees Talbot approaching, so she scales to the top turnbuckle as fast as she can. But she’s not fast enough as Talbot marches over, grabs her by the throat and launches her across the ring!

Talbot moves Ramsey into the corner and deliver multiple shoulder thrusts when Reed reaches over and tags himself in. The Funky Dragon then gets inside the ring and goes to town on Ramsey with right jabs to the head and midsection. Ramsey is then brought out of the corner with a snap suplex for a two count. After a split-legged Stunner sends Ramsey stumbling back, Reed rushes over and delivers a clothesline that sends them both over the top rope. While Ramsey hits the floor, Reed hangs onto the top rope before skinning the cat and getting back inside. He then hits the far ropes, comes back and brings Ramsey down with a slingshot huracanrana to the outside. After rolling Ramsey back inside, Reed goes for a slingshot elbow drop when Ramsey rolls out of the way. She then wrenches his arm multiple times before an irish whip sends him into the corner. Ramsey rushes in to attack when Reed knocks her back with a boot to the face. Reed then rushes out of the corner and goes for What The Funk (handstand handspring headscissors takedown) when Ramsey counters with a superkick to the face! She makes the cover, but Reed gets his shoulder up at two. Ramsey then goes for a short-arm clothesline when Reed ducks. He goes to counter with a belly to back suplex. But Ramsey’s able to roll over his shoulder, land on her feet and send him face-first onto the mat with a legsweep to the front of the legs. She follows up with a Facebuster for a two count.

After Reed is whipped into the corner, Ramsey rushes over and connects with a clothesline before hitting Sullivan on the arm to tag her back in. Sullivan gets in and chops away at Reed before bringing him out of the corner with a one-handed bulldog. She then hits the ropes, comes back and goes for the Wind Whisper (Rolling Senton) when Reed gets his knees up. He then heads over and tags Talbot back in. After Talbot steps over the top rope to get back in, he brings Sullivan back down with a sidewalk slam for a two count. He then whips Sullivan into the ropes before throwing her down with a powerslam for another two count. Sullivan is then held up in the air for ten seconds before Talbot falls back to complete a stalling suplex. The cover only gets a two count. Sullivan is once again whipped into the ropes. When she comes back, she ducks a lariat before knocking him back with a spinning heel kick. She then goes for an irish whip when Talbot reverses, sending her into a corner. Talbot charges into the corner to attack before Sullivan knocks him back with a back elbow to the face. She then climbs up to the middle ropes, flips off and brings him down with a Blockbuster!

With Talbot down, Sullivan crawls across the ring towards her corner. Reed has his hand out for Talbot while Ramsey calls for the tag. The capacity crowd continues to rally behind Sullivan while she pulls herself across the ring. Once she’s within distance, she dives over for the tag... and whiffs after Ramsey drops down to the floor! The crowd erupts with boos when Ramsey walks out on Sullivan, leaving her to fend her herself. When Sullivan turns around, Talbot flattens her with a running big boot. He then delivers a backbreaker before hurling her across the ring with a fallaway slam. As Talbot goes over to grab Sullivan, Reed tags himself in. Reed takes Sullivan and goes for an irish whip when she reverses, sending The Funky Dragon into the far corner! After turning around and hitting Talbot with a Wind Kick (corner big boot), Sullivan rushes across the ring to attack Reed when he knocks her back with a boot to the face. Reed then rushes out of the corner and goes for What The Funk when Sullivan leaps up and counters with a Codebreaker! While Reed is down, Sullivan steps out onto the apron. She scales to the top rope and goes for the Sunset (Swanton Bomb)! But Reed’s able to get his knees up! After landing on top of Sullivan with Funky Knee, Funky Do (standing moonsault double knee drop), he drags Sullivan into the corner before delivering Plan C (split-legged corkscrew moonsault) for the three count!

After the match, Reed gets his hand raised until Talbot lays him out with Diggin Graves (gorilla press spinebuster)! Talbot then pulls Sullivan up before delivering ParaLIES (suplex double knee backbreaker)!

Winners: Sloan Talbot & Cassius Reed

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

The Flashpoint feed cuts backstage and we find Chris Madison standing in one of the rear corridors of the Santa Ana Star Center. Dressed for action, with his tag team contest against the newly crowned United States champion, Salem, and Nina Stokes looming, Madison stretches in order to prepare himself for his match. Without making eye contact with the camera crew, Madison squats down and bounces from side to side on the balls of his feet.

Chris Madison: I’ve got to admit James, watchin’ you lose at Only The Strong Survive was satisfyin’.

Madison pops up and turns towards the camera with a smirk on his face.

Chris Madison: I think I speak for the FGA faithful and a huge portion of that locker room when I say thank you… Thank you Salem… Seems a bit odd for me to thank one of my opponents in my match later on tonight, but the fact of the matter is that you didn’t deserve to call yourself a champion...

Madison bites down on his bottom lip as his head sways from side to side.

Chris Madison: I get wantin’ to prove that you’re one of the best this company has to offer. Every time I step through those ropes I’m lookin’ to do exactly that. But James, you have to realize that you don’t need to be wearin’ the FGA International Heavyweight Championship in order to do so. As the United States Champion, you could have stole that spotlight that you blatantly crave. You should have done everythin’ in your power to make that United States Championship mean more than the International Heavyweight Championship. Every time you stepped through those ropes with that belt around your waist, you should of commanded the attention of every single person associated with this company. Instead… You stomped your feet, you sulked, you threw tantrums, and you completely disrespected the belt every chance you could. At times, literally tossin’ it aside like a piece of trash.

Madison postures up, standing completely straight as he lets out an exasperated sigh.

Chris Madison: My time as FGA Pride Champion, that was the goal. I didn’t care what the other champions were doin’, or who was holdin’ which belts. Wasn’t my concern… As champion, it was my duty to make everyone in that locker room want to chase me. But that’s because to me, that belt meant somethin’. You… Well you’ve made it clear that bein’ United States Champion was nothin’ but a waste of your time. For you, it’s all or nothin’. International Heavyweight Championship or bust. It’s sad to see a guy who claims that he’s got this insatiable desire to fight act like a damn crybaby show after show.

Madison chuckles as he looks down for a moment before making eye contact with the camera crew again.

Chris Madison: As you cut through my interview with Amanda Johnson and drove your shoulder into mine, I thought to myself, “he’s just hit a bit of a rough patch. Don’t take it personal.” So I followed you because I thought I could lend you a set of ears to hear you out. Let you voice your frustrations. You slammed the door shut on that option when you hit me with those double backfists. Personal or not, this shit isn’t over between us! All-Star Showdown is damn near right around the corner… How about I show you why you were never given that International Heavyweight Championship title opportunity! You and me. One on one. Just two guys who love a good fight settlin’ things in the ring the way it should be…

Madison takes a few steps off to the side and then comes to an abrupt stop.

Chris Madison: That is of course if that burnin’ heart hasn’t been snuffed out! While you’re tryin’ come up with some excuse for this match to not happen, I’ll be in the ring with my partner, Mark Storm, takin’ the fight to the person who freed you from that ball and chain that was the United States Championship.

Madison rolls his eyes in disgust and walks off as the feed cuts away.

---

The lights in the arena blink to darkness, prompting a loud, largely undecided response from the audience, many of which have grown used to being plunged into darkness-- but the mixed reaction becomes dominated by deafening boos as the words “I come to life…” echo throughout the arena over the soundsystem, followed by the familiar deep drums, with the text CHAOS appearing in blood red on the Tron. Kavinsky’s “Suburbia” plays on the PA and the lights in the arena slowly return with a red hue. Ashlyn De Luca steps out of the darkness and onto the top of the ramp, smirking at the reaction of the audience. She turns her back briefly, flashing the back of her black-and-pink “Chaotics” jacket.

Geoff Penzer: That’s… that’s some nerve.

Ashlyn pauses, looking out at the crowd around her before walking to the ring, sliding in beneath the bottom rope and rising to a knee in the center.

Melanie Sierra: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome… ASHLYN DE LUUUCA!

Ashlyn walks toward the ropes, calmly climbing to the second, scanning the audience before blowing a sarcastic kiss toward the mainly-jeering crowd. She peels her jacket off, tossing it onto the face of the nearest cameraman before reaching her hand through the ropes, demanding a mic from Melanie Sierra before moving her way to the center of the ring.

Geoff Penzer: What in the hell could she possibly have to say?

The music fades and Ashlyn takes a deep breath, looking out into the audience.

“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

Ashlyn holds the mic firmly in her hands and shakes her head at the masses.

Ashlyn De Luca: Hey. Listen…

“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

De Luca raises a hand defensively and goes on in a shaky, but steady voice.

Ashlyn De Luca: I totally get it. But you guys have to understand that nobody is mor…

“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

De Luca looks around her at the booing FGA faithful. Thumbs-downs-- other hand gestures-- and the pockets of the audience beginning their own crude chants drown out the words of De Luca. She runs a hand down her face and goes on again.

Ashlyn De Luca: You guys have to understand that nobody is more upset about what happened than me. My tag team partner is injured right now and I have to take on a role that I’ve never had before in FGA. This is horrifying for me. And you guys are, like, you, so I’m not shocked that you can’t empathize but holy crap you’re still supposed to be human beings. So the fact that you guys can’t at least sympathize with me is…

“FUCK YOU, ASHLYN!”

“FUCK YOU, ASHLYN!”

“FUCK YOU, ASHLYN!”

“FUCK YOU, ASHLYN!”

“FUCK YOU, ASHLYN!”

Ashlyn rolls her eyes, pacing the ring, laughing under her breath before raising the mic again.

Ashlyn De Luca: You losers can’t keep it up. Stop it.

Thunderous boos greet De Luca in response, but she steps up onto the turnbuckles, speaking in a louder voice.

Ashlyn De Luca: But I’m not gonna pout about it. What Logan would want me to do is carry on in spite of his injuries. So while I can’t, in good faith, keep the Chaotics alive without him… I can move forward with the singles career that Logan would WANT me to have. Logan would WANT me to chase the United States Championship. He would WANT me to become the FGA International Heavyweight Champion.

A pause.

Ashlyn De Luca: Because these are the things he was gonna do before… you know. Before fate.

An indistinguishable sound-- a small laugh comes out of De Luca’s mouth, but it’s lost again in the sea of jeers.

Ashlyn De Luca: So now… now these are the things I’m gonna do. And…

“WE WANT LOGAN!”

“WE WANT LOGAN!”

“WE WANT LOGAN!”

“WE WANT LOGAN!”

She smiles broadly, eyes closed, taking a deep breath.

Ashlyn De Luca: And I’m gonna do it for my tag team partner.

She points a finger to the hard camera, giving it a wink.

Ashlyn De Luca: I’m gonna do it for you, Logan.

“Suburbia” hits the PA system again as Ashlyn lets the mic fall from her hands. She blows another kiss to the hard camera before hopping down from the turnbuckles, scanning the audience again before she leaves the ring.

Geoff Penzer: She is absolutely delusional. Ashlyn De Luca brutalized Logan Alexander last week and we have no idea what his condition is. But we do know this-- the Chaotics, as of right now, are no more. Ashlyn De Luca is embarking on her own journey. Her own career. But it’s disgusting that it’s at the expense of Logan Alexander.

We fade away as De Luca pauses at the top of the ramp, shaking her head at the crowd before making her way through the curtains.

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

CO-MAIN EVENT
★★★ TAG TEAM MATCH ★★★
Salem & Nina Stokes vs. Chris Madison & Mark Storm

"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 United States Championship belt around her waist...

Melanie Sierra: The following contest is a tag team match scheduled for one fall!

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...

Melanie Sierra: Introducing first, in the ring, hailing from Laval, Quebec, Canada... she is the reigning FGA United States Champion, "Something Like a Phenomena"... Salem!!!

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: And her tag team partner…

The lights in the arena dim to a fairly darkened level. A couple of seconds pass before MUCC’s “Sei to Shi to Kimi” begins to play. The base of the entrance becomes fills up with heavy smoke. Nina Stokes makes her way out from the back a few seconds later. She emerges from the smoke after a moment or two. She gives a sly sneer to camera before she makes her way towards to the ring.

Melanie Sierra: Hailing from Miami, Florida, “The Kodiak”, NIIIIINA STOKES!

Her pace down to the ring deliberate and leisurely. She tosses a couple of glances towards the crowd, but for the most part, she keeps her eyes fixated on the square circle. Nina flexes her arms a bit as she reaches the end entryway. She cracks her neck and completely circles the ring one time. Afterwards, Nina cracks her knuckles and slides into the ring.

Geoff Penzer: And here comes Nina-- somebody that eliminated seven people including a certain champion back at the Gold Rush Rumble… someone that made her intentions very clear to the woman she’s teaming with tonight, the United States Champ.

Nina paces around for a moment. Then she removes her jacket and tosses it into the corner. Nina pulls on the ropes and stretches before she lounges in the corner and waits for the start of the match.

Melanie Sierra: And their opponents...

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

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

Melanie Sierra: First, making his way to the ring, hailing from Long Island, New York, "Mayhem" CHRIS MAAADDIISSOONN!

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

Melanie Sierra: And his tag team partner…

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

A massive pop ensues as emerging from the back is Your Hero and Mine, Mark Storm; who keeps himself composed as he stands at the top of the entrance ramp. He can't help but allow his sadistic signature smirk to appear upon his lips as he closes his eyes and spreads his arms out wide, soaking in the energy that the audience are giving him as they applaud and cheer.

Melanie Sierra: From Brooklyn, New York-- Your Hero, and Mine... MARRKKKK STORMMMMMM!

He begins his walk down the entrance ramp, swaggering his way down.

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

At this point, Storm is by the edge of the ring; allowing a smile to embed on his face before he jumps onto the apron and holds onto the ropes, using them to help himself up onto the turnbuckle. He's grinning from ear to ear, soaking in the rest of the cheers coming from the audience, shaking his head sideways as he lowers it, before jumping into the ring. He heads over to his designated corner and hoisting himself up onto the second ropes, a smirk upon his lips as he holds his arms up; his theme song slowly diminishing.

Geoff Penzer: Mark Storm and Chris Madison went head to head in a classic last week. But this week they’re asked to do something completely different. They’re asked to reform Invictus Fight Club, if only for one night, to take on the incredibly formidable pairing of Nina Stokes, who has been on a tear since laying waste to much of the competition at the Gold Rush Rumble-- and the two-time United States Champion, Salem.

The bell sounds and Mark Storm backs Madison off, insisting that he start the match off. Madison raises a brow but Storm smirks, patting his chest before turning his attention to the United States Champion who stands ready on the other side of the ring. Salem narrows her eyes as Storm bounces on his heels eagerly, motioning for her to come forward for a lockup.

Geoff Penzer: And it looks like we’ve figured out who’s starting this one off.

Salem steps forward as Storm does— before shooting behind him for a rear waistlock! Storm drops to a knee and spins to Salem’s back, hooking her for a rear waistlock— and Salem drops to her stomach, scooting back between Storm’s legs and rising to her feet. Storm pivots and strikes with a Discus Forearm, missing Salem as she ducks under his fist and shoots the ropes. She rebounds and Storm follows up, hitting the ropes right behind her, looking for a Lariat to the back of the head— but Salem ducks beneath it! Storm hits the ropes again and returns, being met with a knee to the gut from the champion! Storm gasps in pain as the Kitchen Sink sends him flipping to a seated position! Salem hits the ropes again and rebounds with a Penalty Kick to the heart! Storm clutches his chest as he hits the mat and Salem hooks both legs for a deep cover.

ONE
.
.
.
.
TW-!

Storm grunts in pain as he sits upright, and Salem stays on top of him, nailing an elbow smash to his temple before mounting Storm, blasting him with knee strikes to the ribs! Storm rolls onto his back, hooking Salem in a desperate front facelock, but Salem continues, driving her knees into the abdomen and ribcage of Mark Storm!

Geoff Penzer: Storm is getting pummeled! But he’s not releasing that facelock!

The audience roars in approval as the onslaught continues, with Salem blasting Storm with knee strike after knee strike! Storm finally grunts out in pain, pushing Salem away from him. The red-faced champion stumbles to her feet as Storm crawls toward the neutral corner.

Geoff Penzer: You might not wanna be there, Mark…

Storm reaches his feet and turns in the corner— right into a roaring elbow from Salem! The shot echoes through the venue and Storm goes visibly noodle-legged. Salem hooks him for the Bulldog and charges to the center of the ring…

...only for Storm to plants his feet and shift the champ’s weight in mid-air, driving her to the mat with a German Suplex! He rolls onto his stomach, rubbing at his own jaw as Salem rolls to the ropes, hissing in pain. Storm makes the tag to the outstretched hand of Madison, who enters the ring to a pop from the Rio Rancho crowd.

Geoff Penzer: Storm was a little too roughed up to bridge for the pin, but now “Mayhem” has entered the frey!

Salem hoists herself up using the ropes, but Madison is already on her, blasting her with two low kicks to the thighs. Salem hisses, pushing Madison away while the referee reprimands him. Madison beckons Salem forward and she obliges-- blasting him with a forearm to the jaw. Madison responds with another low kick to the left leg, then the right-- and Salem rocks him with another forearm! Madison staggers back and Salem nails a third, fourth, fifth forearm before screaming out and pivoting, blasting Madison with a high impact Spinning Backfist!

Geoff Penzer: What a shot!

Madison stumbles, losing his balance into the middle rope-- but he rebounds, firing back with a Bicycle Knee Strike that catches the champion under the jaw. Stokes groans from the apron as Salem swings at Madison for a disoriented Discus Forearm, only to be caught and drilled with a Spinebuster! Madison rolls into a tight cover!

Geoff Penzer: A Spinebuster and a deep pin by Chris Madison. Salem is completely rocked right now and her tag partner knows it. Even worse, Madison knows it!

ONE
.
.
.
.
TWO
.
.
.
Salem rolls her shoulder off of the canvas, shoving Madison off of her as she crawls toward her corner. Madison follows after her and pulls her to her feet by the rear of her tights. He pulls her back into a Back Suplex, but Salem has the wherewithal to roll over his shoulder and land on her feet— immediately hitting a low Dropkick to the back of Madison’s knee!

Geoff Penzer: A low Dropkick from Salem to buy herself some time. She’s still out of sorts, but she knows she has to fight her way to Nina Stokes right now.

Madison turns to face Salem, but before she’s even fully reached her feet, she hits a second Front Dropkick, this time to the front of Madison’s right knee. Madison stumbles to his knees as Salem rolls over her shoulders and back to her feet-- before delivering a thunderous chest kick to Madison, sending a sickening POP! echoing throughout the Santa Ana Star Center!

Geoff Penzer: Salem just drove the heel of her boot right into the heart of the former Pride Champion!

Salem stumbles over Madison and into her corner. She looks toward the outstretched hand of Nina Stokes, who gives the champion an expectant look… before Salem makes the tag, stepping out to the apron as Stokes enters the ring, eyes locked on the rising figure of Chris Madison. Stokes shoots the ropes and returns to the center, blasting Madison with a Running Roundhouse. With Madison shaky, Stokes hits the ropes again, this time taking him to the mat with a Leg Lariat.

Geoff Penzer: Notice that second of hesitation before the tag-- but Stokes is all over Chris Madison now!

Stokes raises her brow at Salem before sliding into a cover.

ONE
.
.
.
.
Kickout!

Madison powers out, scrambling to his feet, though Stokes is just a second ahead of him, hitting a knee strike under the jaw before Irish Whipping Madison for the ropes-- though Madison reverses! Stokes rebounds and ducks under a Lariat attempt by Madison, but Madison quickly pivots and nails a low kick to Stokes’ leg as she draws near. A second, third, and fourth kick back her away, but Stokes breaks up the flurry with a knee to the gut. She goes to Irish Whip Madison again-- but he reverses the grip on her wrist, and reels her in for the Ripcord Elbow!

Geoff Penzer: CONCUSSION!

--but Nina Stokes ducks under the strike with wide eyes, catching Madison with a low Swinging Neckbreaker!

Geoff Penzer: No! Nina catches him.

Madison grunts in pain, clutching the back of his neck as he sits upright. Stokes hits the ropes and returns with a Jumping Senton-- awkwardly catching Madison across the upper portion of his spine and neck, sandwiching him on the canvas.

Geoff Penzer: Madison just got folded up like an accordion! What a nasty Senton!

Madison shakily gets to his feet as Stokes stalks him from behind. Salem watches intently on the apron-- and winces as Stokes blasts the rising Madison with a knee strike, sending a CRACK! echoing through the venue. Chris reels and Stokes hooks him for the STO-- but Madison fires a vicious elbow strike into the side of her head! Stokes is immediately staggered and Madison pulls her forward, hoisting her up… and driving her to the mat with a Brainbuster! The audience pops for the display, but they grow louder as Madison rolls to his corner and tags the hand of Mark Storm!

Geoff Penzer: A tag to Your Hero and Mine!

Stokes struggles to her feet, but she finds a vertical base-- right into a front facelock from Storm! Storm smirks out into the audience before hoisting Nina upright, only to drive her down with a Brainbuster as well! Storm rolls into a cover, hooking the near leg!

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

Stokes throws the shoulder up, finally casting a look in the direction of her tag partner-- but Storm is quick to grab Stokes by the wrist and pull himself to his feet, looking to drive a boot into her face, but Stokes ducks beneath it and counters with a Schoolboy rollup!

ONE
.
.
.
.
Storm rolls through, popping back up to his feet. He grabs the kneeling Stokes in a gutwrench and deadlift her off the mat! Storm looks to complete the Gutwrench Powerbomb-- but Nina Stokes counters with a Hurricanrana! Storm is thrown across the canvas, finding his feet on the other side of the ring. He turns, racing back to Stokes for a Lariat-- and Stokes catches him with a high roundhouse, sending the former Invictus Fight Club member tumbling to the mat! Salem cries out for the tag, but Stokes doesn’t seem to hear her, motioning for the groggy Storm to get up.

Geoff Penzer: Nina Stokes is shrugging off the tag from her partner, but all eyes are locked right on Mark Storm!

Storm turns around-- right into a throat thrust from Stokes! Storm drops to a knee, gagging and gasping for air while Stokes pivots-- and blasts him with a Rolling Elbow Smash! The shot sends spit flying from Storm’s mouth before he crashes back-first to the mat. Stokes shoots a quick, raised brow toward Salem before she drops down for the cover, hooking Storm’s near leg.

ONE
.
.
.
.
TWO
.
.
.
.
Kickout!

Geoff Penzer: A Slice of Grace, followed by Divine Night from Nina Stokes, and a look back at her partner-- almost as if to say to the champion, “that’s how you execute a Roaring Elbow!” But still, Mark Storm powers out of the pin attempt.

Chris Madison stomps his foot on the canvas, willing the crowd to chant and stomp along with him as he shouts for Mark Storm to make the tag.

Geoff Penzer: Chris Madison’s calling for the tag already but I’m not sure if that’s the best idea. I think, much like the situation Salem found herself in earlier, Madison needs to take a moment and collect his bearings before he gets back in there.

Storm pulls himself up, shooting a confused look toward Madison before insisting that he’s got things under control-- though he cries out in pain, catching a running knee to the temple from Stokes a moment later! He pops back up-- and catches a hook kick to the sternum! Followed by a second! A third backs him into the ropes and Stokes goes for the Irish Whip, but Storm counters, sending Nina into the ropes! Salem makes the swift tag to Nina’s back before she rebounds and Storm races forward, blasting Stokes with a Bicycle Knee Strike! Nina drops to a knee and Storm pivots, hitting the ropes at full speed.

Geoff Penzer: Shoot to Kill-- no!

Salem darts into the ring with Storm’s back turns and races toward Nina’s back, using her shoulder as a step-up before catching the oncoming Storm with a Sunset Flip! The referee drops into position at Stokes rolls out of the ring!

ONE
.
.
.
.
TWO
.
.
.
.

Geoff Penzer: Storm kicks out, but my God! What timing-- what on-the-fly thinking by the U.S. Champion!

Salem and Storm reach their feet simultaneously, but Salem strikes first with a right hand to the jaw, staggering Storm. Salem cries out, looking to launch a Superkick, but Storm ducks-- only to fall victim to a rapid flurry of knee strikes to the chest and jaw! The audience roars for the display, but Storm is knocked backwards, grasping onto the ropes as Salem draws near. Salem instinctively stops, narrowing her eyes at Storm as he leans through the ropes-- and Storm explodes out of the ropes, leveling Salem with a shoot kick to the thigh! The champion howls out in pain, falling to a knee. Storm wipes sweat out of his own eyes before grabbing Salem by the back of her head nailing one… two… three consecutive knee strikes to her chin! Before Salem can react, Storm hoists her up by the base of the neck, throwing her into the ropes. As Salem rebounds, Storm charges her, nailing a Back Elbow Smash, rocking Salem’s head back. Salem slumps forward, but Mark nails a second back elbow-- then a third! Salem staggers against the ropes and then forward again, right into a Pele Kick from Storm!

...but as he rolls over to reach for Salem, the final shot knocks her out of the ring, between the ropes, down to the floor below! The audience comes alive in applause for Storm’s show of athleticism, but his focused gaze remains locked on Salem.

Geoff Penzer: Storm with Rage of Glory, completely wiping out the champ… but she fell out of the ring! Like I’ve said before though-- I’m not entirely sure that Storm is that turned off by the idea of a countout victory.

The official begins his count as Salem writhes on the floor outside the ring. Stokes paces on the apron, mumbling something under her breath.

ONE!

TWO!

THREE!

FOUR!

FIVE!

SIX!

Salem begins climbing to her feet, reaching a knee at the ref’s six count. Storm looks between the far ropes and the rising U.S. Champion outside the ring, growing jittery…

Geoff Penzer: What’s Storm thinking?!

Storm takes off, hitting the ropes on the far side of the ring before sprinting back to the ropes nearest Salem! He leaps over the top-- catching a tag on the leg from Chris Madison-- as he sails over the top rope, crashing down on top of Salem with the Topé con Hilo! Salem is flattened to the ringside floor, but she barely has a second to recover as Madison leaps from the apron and scoops her upright, rolling her swiftly into the ring beneath the bottom rope! Madison scrambles in behind Salem, plucking the champion to her feet before driving her back down with the Pumphandle Slam! He rolls into a cover, hooking the far leg and grapevining the near one!

ONE
.
.
.
.
TWO
.
.
.
.
TH--

Nina Stokes drives a boot between Madison’s shoulder-blades. Madison cries out in pain, but rolls off of Salem, shooting a glare over his shoulder toward Stokes, who calmly exits to the apron. She silently scoffs at the look Madison gives her.

Geoff Penzer: Nina Stokes might’ve just saved the match for her partner, all while giving Madison a look just daring him to do something.

“LET’S GO SALEM!”

“LET’S GO SALEM!”

“LET’S GO SALEM!”

Chants for the champion grow loud as Madison forces her to her feet and into the Muay Thai Clinch. He backs her toward the ropes, throwing a knee strike into her torso, followed by a second, a third, a fourth, a fifth-- and Salem’s back is pressed against the ropes, forcing the referee to initiate his five-count as Madison unloads with rapid knee strikes to the gut.

Ref: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR!

Madison backs off the ropes, but he pulls Salem with him, keeping a hold of her wrist-- and out of nowhere, Salem yanks Madison forward and drives him to the mat overhead with an Exploder Suplex, earning a deafening roar from Rio Rancho!

Geoff Penzer: SALEM! Salem with an Exploder Suplex on Chris Madison! Desperation drives the body to do crazy things!

“LET’S GO SALEM!”

“LET’S GO SALEM!”

“LET’S GO SALEM!”

“LET’S GO SALEM!”

Salem nods her head vigorously, fired up by the energy of the crowd. She pushes herself up onto all-fours, glaring at Madison as he climbs to his feet. Salem races forward and hooks Madison, planting him with a second Exploder Suplex! Madison is thrown into a seated position from the impact, reaching groggily toward his empty tag team corner. Another camera angles shows Mark Storm pulling himself back up onto the apron, but as he grabs the tag rope, making eye contact with his now-kneeling partner-- Salem catches Madison from behind with a Somersault Cutter!

Geoff Penzer: Cutter by Salem! Madison is down and out! Mark Storm looks shocked!

Salem pushes Madison over onto his back, hooking both legs!

ONE
.
.
.
.
TWO
.
.
.
.
THRE-!

Madison throws his shoulder up with milliseconds to spare! Salem exhales, squeezing her eyes shut, a bitter smile crossing her face in a brief moment of frustration before she nods to herself, nodding back out to the crowd as she signals for the end with her trademark devil horns.

Geoff Penzer: Salem is ready to end this now!

Salem grabs Madison’s left wrist with both hands and forces him up to his knees-- and then finally to his feet, but before she can make another move, Madison slaps Salem’s wrists away and pulls her forward into the front facelock! The members of the Rio Rancho crowd rise to their feet in anticipation and Madison nods, locking Salem in the Front Guillotine! The champion flails and Madison begins his rotations within the Helicopter Guillotine-- but Salem hooks her leg around Madison’s, tucking him into the Inside Cradle!

Geoff Penzer: Oh m-- COUNTER!

The ref slides into position, with many in the crowd counting along!

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

Madison pops his shoulders off the canvas, but Salem maintains a grip on his left wrist!

Geoff Penzer: The champ hasn’t let go!

As the two Grapplers reach their feet, Salem yanks Madison forward-- but Madison switches the grip, pulling Salem forward instead, right into the Ripcord Elbow!

Geoff Penzer: CONCUSSION!

The force of the move sends Madison stumbling back as Salem hits the mat, right into his own corner, where Mark Storm makes the tag! Madison immediately turns, looking over his shoulder, but Storm motions for Madison to move out of the way.

Geoff Penzer: Somebody needs to make the cover!

Madison holds his hands up, stepping out of Mark Storm’s way. “Your Hero and Mine” holds his arms out to the lively audience, earning a mixed reaction. He turns, hoisting Salem upright into a waistlock of his own, swinging out for the Lariat, but Salem ducks beneath, countering with a Backslide Pin!

Geoff Penzer: AGAIN! Salem!

ONE
.
.
.
.
TWO
.
.
.
.
THRE—!

Storm rolls out of the hole and climbs to his feet, but Salem blasts him with a shoot kick between the eyes before he can make a move! She stumbles into her own corner, making the tag to Stokes! Nina steps into the ring— right as a disoriented Storm grabs Salem from behind, planting her to the mat with a bridging German Suplex!

Geoff Penzer: Storm never saw the tag!

The referee waves off the count and Madison screams for Storm to look up! Finally, Storm releases the bridge and sits upright—

CRACK!

—smashed with a Boma Ye Knee Strike to the nose from Stokes!

Geoff Penzer: Amidst the Shadow of Sorrows III!

Stokes sits atop Storm, booking both legs as Chris Madison sinks to a knee on the apron, muttering under his breath as he shakes his head. Stokes maintains eye contact with the stirring Salem as the ref counts.

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

The bell sounds and a mixed reaction surges through the arena as Stokes rises to her feet with a smirk at the champion, MUCC’s “Sei to Shi to Kimi” hitting the PA.

Melanie Sierra: Here are your winners, the United States Champion, Salem, and NIIIINA STOOOKKES!

Salem cranes her neck, allowing the ref to raise her hand at the same time as Nina’s. Nina says something quietly to the champ as she’s handed her belt, but Salem simply nods, casting a glance at her belt before raising the championship high, smirking back at Stokes.

Geoff Penzer: Chris Madison cannot be happy about this. In his mind, you know he felt he had this match won early on.

Storm sits upright, rubbing his jaw before he turns, making eye contact with Madison. Chris shakes his head, leaning against the ropes, a contemplative look on his face. Storm leans back on the heels of his palms, gaze downcast as we fade.

★★★ COMMERCIAL BREAK ★★★

[FGA Office]

With a bit more of a bounce in her step than we've seen recently, Kendall Kingham bounds out of her locker room into the hallway. She's in her ring gear prepared for her upcoming match, bubbling over with excitement. As she walks down the hall, she begins speaking.

Kendall Kingham: Yooooo, sup Flashpoint Zone!?

She smiles.

Kendall Kingham: Big big opportunity for me tonight, feels like that showing in the Rumble maybe did me some good. But uh first, before I start rambling so much ...

A deep breath and the smile dissipates slightly.

Kendall Kingham: I heard Mark Storm's challenge, I'm never gonna turn down a fight, so obv I accept. Uh, I have a lot more complicated thoughts on it given our history, but I'll wait until after the show to give them. I don't wanna look past this match here, facing the Champ, so right now I'm just gonna focus on that.

After a nod, the smile slowly returns.

Kendall Kingham: Besides the obvious uh, implications and stuff as far as this match? I dunno how many actual main events I've had here in the Flashpoint Zone, if any. Had plenty of title defenses, but I hadn't earned this spot yet, so being in it is huge. It's my chance to show I belong in that upper echelon, at that top level, that I belong to keep being in there with the very best and can beat anyone on any given night.

She stops as she approaches the gorilla position and lets a beat skip.

Kendall Kingham: This is up to me to prove it, but Flashpoint Zone? Rio Rancho? Make some noise if you believe in me like I believe in me.

[FGA Office]

MAIN EVENT
★★★ NON-TITLE MATCH ★★★
(c) Savannah Taylor vs. Kendall Kingham

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

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

Melanie Sierra: The following contest is your main event! It’s scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan, New York… KENDALL KINGHAM!!!

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


Geoff Penzer: Alright, fans, we are back with tonight’s main event! Kendall Kingham is set to take on Savannah Taylor here tonight in non-title action! Kingham let us know moments ago that she will be accepting Mark Storm’s challenge for All-Star Showdown VIII! These two had a competitive rivalry last year over the 15 Championship. That rivalry quickly turned personal after comments were made by Storm which crossed the line. The Storm that we see today here in FGA is a total 180 from the man we saw last year with his Dogs of War cohorts. Storm’s been embraced since returning to FGA. Kingham didn’t want to speak on it too much, but you could tell from the words we heard from her moments ago that she has mixed emotions about stepping back into the ring with Storm again. Right now, she’s got to put any thoughts about Storm on the side as she’ll have the reigning International Heavyweight Champion standing across the ring from here in just a few moments.

There was silence; the lights began to fade away slowly. A soft instrumental echoes out across the audience. It starts slowly, a beautiful sound that contrasts the heaviness of the world. Like feathers, it glides among the waiting audience. The lighting fixtures produce a gentle spotlight upon the stage, offset by the occasional flash here and there. As the song continues, a woman’s words begin to come through. Her voice is tender, not raising upon a whisper.

Deceived by my eyes and all I was told I should see
Opinions not mine, the person they taught me to be
One night in the dark, a vision of someone I knew
And in the darkness I saw, a voice say, I'm you.

On the stage, a feminine figure appears. Her head lowered to everything. People cannot make out who it is. As she stands there, the flashes briefly illuminate her figure. It only gives small clues on who stands at the gate. She stands in the spotlight, her shadow cast large and proudly among the stage.

Inside me a light was turned on…

The instrumental picks up again. An electric guitar now joins the progressively exciting instrumentals of before. The singer’s voice suddenly intensifies.

Then I was alive!

In the light, it is revealed that it was Savannah Taylor. She stands at the gate, a robe of obsidian and ivory hues. The hood of it shadows her eyes, but the intensity of the final EXODUS World Champion remains clear as day. She starts off down the ramp, with a serious aura radiating from her body.

Melanie Sierra: Her opponent, from Las Vegas, Nevada! She is the reigning International heavyweight Champion! She is the “Las Vegas Siren” SAVANNAH TAYLOR!

If you close your eyes your life,
A naked truth revealed
Dreams you never lived,
And scars never healed

Savannah makes her way up the ring steps. She looks out towards the audience for a moment before entering the ring. From there, she heads for a turnbuckle. She stands there, taking in everything. She then lifts her up on top of it. She peers out in nothing, then takes off the hood with a flashy flourish. Her blonde locks fly up in the air. They descend, shaping her face as they famously do.

In the darkness, light will take you to the other side
You'll find me waiting there you'll see, if you just close your eyes

While she stands in her corner, she closes her eyes and takes a heavy breath. When her bright eyes open, Taylor is completely composed. There is nothing more than the heat of battle awaiting her. She takes off her robe, giving it to a stagehand. Taking the championship belt from around her waist, she hands it to the referee. She then stretches her wrists before devoting her mind to the war upon the horizon.

Geoff Penzer: Jimmy Page hasn’t let go of what Savannah Taylor did to him after their match at Only The Strong Survive! He could accept being defeated by the better grappler that night. But what doesn’t sit well with him was Taylor kicking him while he was down. What doesn’t sit well with him was Taylor attacking him after she already won and using the International Heavyweight Championship to bust him open. Page has secured himself a rematch at All-Star Showdown VIII. But not just any match. This is going to be a First Blood Match! It’s not about submissions. It’s not about who has the better technique. The object is to draw the blood of your opponent first! In a match where there are no rules whatsoever, you have to wonder if under all that bravado, the Las Vegas Siren is regretting pushing the issue with Jimmy Page. We saw Page end the career of Chandler Scott back at A New Odyssey in March. Will Taylor share the same fate at All-Star Showdown VIII?

The bell sounds as both grapplers remain in their respective corners. Kingham is the first to leave a corner, followed by Taylor. Both grapplers begin to circle the ring. They go for a lock up when Taylor quickly ducks under, goes behind Kingham and drives her down with Blonde Ambition (forward russian legsweep)! The boos continue as Taylor pushes Kingham over and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Kingham kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Taylor was able to wrestle Kingham down to the mat early with one of her patented maneuvers. But she only gets a two count.

Taylor takes Kingham and whips her into the corner. The Las Vegas Siren charges across the ring before blasting Kingham with a yakuza kick in the corner! After sending Kingham into the far ropes with another irish whip, Taylor runs across the ring and throws out another yakuza kick. This time, Kingham is able to get her hands up in time and catch Taylor’s foot! The crowd cheers as Kingham moves Taylor out of the corner. Taylor continues to hop on one leg before Kingham shoves her down to the mat. As Taylor rolls back to her feet, Kingham rushes over and knocks Taylor down with a running European Uppercut. The cheers continue when Taylor gets knocked down with another European Uppercut. Kingham then takes Taylor and goes for an irish whip. The Las Vegas Siren quickly reverses, sending Kingham towards the ropes. Kingham then uses the momentum to knock Taylor back down with a springboard European Uppercut! She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Taylor kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Kingham quickly takes control of the match and puts Taylor down for a two count. Kingham hasn’t had the success recently that she had in the past as 15 Champion. But Kingham has to keep her spirits up. She’s been a tough out for many of Flashpoint’s best and she recently set the record for longest time in a single Gold Rush Rumble. Her time will come again. I believe in her and so does everyone here in the Flashpoint Zone. She just has to keep at it and stay positive.

Kingham takes Taylor, places her in a Thai Plum and moves her into the corner. From there, the crowd cheers as Kingham goes to work on Taylor with short elbows and uppercuts from the Thai Plum. She then takes Taylor and whips her into the far corner. Kingham rushes across the ring to attack when Taylor turns her around with a boot to the face. The crowd boos as Taylor rushes out of the corner and goes for a running bulldog. At the last second, Kingham shoves Taylor off her her and into the ropes. When Taylor returns, Kingham throws out a Samoan Spike. Taylor’s able to duck by sliding through Kingham’s legs. When Kingham turns around, Taylor rushes over, flattens her with a yakuza kick and quickly flips back and hits a standing moonsault! The boos continue as the ref gets into place for the count.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!

.
.
Kingham kicks out.

Geoff Penzer: Quick one-two combo there from Taylor. But it only gets two. Taylor’s set for a collision course with Jimmy Page at All-Star Showdown VIII. Beating Jimmy Page in a wrestling match is one thing. But this will be far from a wrestling match. We all heard the pain and the anger in his voice. We saw that rage in his eyes. It’s the same rage that he’s used to inflict irreparable damage on multiple grapplers over the years. That is what Taylor will have to contend with in a few weeks!

Taylor takes Kingham and lifts her up for a vertical suplex. Kingham’s able to slip down from behind before quickly taking control of Taylor’s back. Before Kingham can deliver a German Suplex, Taylor counters with a back elbow to the face. After a second back elbow, Taylor performs a standing switch, grabs Kingham, runs and chucks her over the top rope. The crowd boos Taylor as she turns and heads back towards the center of the ring with her arms raised. But unbeknownst to her, Kingham landed on the apron. The Las Vegas Siren turns around and narrows her eyes when she sees Kingham on the apron instead of the floor. The International Heavyweight Champion rushes over to attack when Kingham cuts her off with a slingshot spear into the ring! The cheers continue as she makes the cover.

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

While Taylor guards her midsection, Kingham heads over towards the far side of the ring and waves her up. After Taylor turns over on all fours, Kingham rushes over over as Taylor tries to get back up. Kingham throws out a Knee Trembler. But Taylor’s able to slip out of the way. When Kingham turns around, she ducks a high roundhouse from Taylor before bringing her down with a three quarter facelock russian legsweep! The cheers continue as she makes the cover.

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

Kingham pulls up Taylor before pulling her into a Front Chancery. The crowd cheers while Kingham cinches in the hold. Kingham continues to apply pressure while Taylor can be heard groaning with discomfort. The ref gets in and asks Taylor if she wants to give up. The champion refuses. She then begins to move Kingham forward. As soon as Kingham is pressed against the ropes, Taylor reaches out and grabs onto the middle ropes to force a rope break. The crowd boos the referee as he gives Kingham until the count of five to break the hold.

Ref: ONE… TWO… THREE…

Kingham slowly breaks the hold. While Kingham’s got her arms in the air, the crowd boos when Taylor takes advantage of Kingham’s positioning and nails her with repeated shoulder thrusts to the midsection!

Geoff Penzer: A mistake there from Kingham. You have to protect yourself at all times in there. Especially when you’re in there with someone like Taylor. If she can find any opening, you can bet she’ll exploit it and she did just that right there!

While Kingham is doubled over, Taylor turns around and takes off into the far ropes. When Taylor returns, Kingham ducks and dumps her over the top rope. Instead of hitting the floor, Taylor lands on the apron. As soon as Kingham turns around, Taylor takes a hard swipe at Kingham with a punch to the face. Kingham ducks and counters with a European Uppercut. She then nails Taylor with a second European Uppercut. Then a third! While Taylor is dazed, Kingham takes a few steps back, then rushes forward before lunging through the ropes. The crowd erupts with cheers after Kingham delivers a slingshot spear that sends bot her and Taylor crashing to the floor!!!

Geoff Penzer: OHHHHH! Kingham just sent Taylor off the apron with that slingshot spear! But they both ended up crashing to the floor hard! Kingham looks to be in rough shape on the floor, along with Taylor!

The ref puts his hands on his head before rolling to the outside. He checks on Kingham before going over and checking on Taylor. The official gets back into the ring before counting them both out.

ONE!










TWO!












THREE!





Kingham starts to stir on the floor while Taylor remains sprawled out on the ground





FOUR!
















FIVE!








Kingham slowly turns over and reaches up to grab the edge of the apron with both hands. Meanwhile, Taylor remains motionless on the outside.







SIX!











SEVEN!






Kingham pulls herself up before rolling back inside. Back on the floor, Taylor starts to stir.





EIGHT!









Taylor turns over on all fours.







NINE!











The Las Vegas Siren slowly returns back to a vertical base.










TE-




The crowd erupts with boos when Taylor turns and rolls back inside, then quickly rolls back to the outside.

Taylor continues to regroup while Kingham marches back over towards the ropes. As soon as Kingham gets within striking distance, Taylor quickly reaches back in, grabs Kingham by the ankles and yanks her down to the floor.

Geoff Penzer: Woah woah woah...

Taylor drags Kingham to the outside before doubles her over with a knee to the midsection. The boos continue as Taylor pulls Kingham into a front facelock before planting her with a DDT on the floor!

Geoff Penzer: Kingham just got dropped with a DDT on the outside!

Taylor gets back to her feet before rolling back inside. She then motions for the ref to continue counting.






THREE!








FOUR!








FIVE!





Kingham remains sprawled out on the outside.








SIX!





Kingham slowly turns over on all fours.







SEVEN!







Kingham reaches up and grabs the top of the guardrail with both hands.








EIGHT!









Kingham struggles to get back to a vertical base.







NINE!







The crowd erupts with boos when Taylor knocks Kingham down with an Asai Moonsault after Kingham turns to face the ring!

Geoff Penzer: Taylor just caught Kingham with that moonsault as soon as she was about to re-enter the ring!

The boos grow louder when Taylor takes Kingham and whips her hard into the steel steps!

Geoff Penzer: OOOHHH, right into the steps! Kendall Kingham was just whipped hard into those unforgiving steel steps! She might not be able to get back up after that! Savannah Taylor continues to show this aggressive side to her! She will need that aggression at All-Star Showdown VIII against Jimmy Page!

Kingham remains curled up on the mat while Taylor rolls back inside. The crowd erupts with boos as the Las Vegas Siren circles the ring with her arms spread out.

Geoff Penzer: The International Heavyweight Champion sure is proud of herself here tonight! She believes she’s got this in the bag!

The ref continues to count out Kingham while she remains on the floor.

THREE!









FOUR!











FIVE!












SIX!












SEVEN!

















EIGHT!















NINE!

















TE-


The crowd gasps, then erupts with cheers when Kingham rolls back inside!

Geoff Penzer: Kendall made it! She made it back inside! She just beat the ten cou-

… then quickly erupts with boos when Taylor darts over, jumps up and drives Kingham down with a Curb Stomp! She pulls Kingham over and hooks the far leg for the cover.

Geoff Penzer: Kingham was just driven heart-first into the mat with the Curb Stomp! That has to be it right there!

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

The crowd cheers when Kingham gets her foot on the bottom rope.

Geoff Penzer: NO! NO! She got her foot on the bottom rope! Kendall Kingham is a fighter, ladies and gentlemen!

Taylor looks over at the ref and holds up three fingers. The ref stands his ground, shakes Taylor off and holds up two fingers. The Las Vegas Siren narrows her eyes at the official.

Geoff Penzer: Taylor needs to control herself. She needs to stick to the task at hand.

Taylor picks up Kingham, marches into the corner and slams her face-first into the top turnbuckle. After turning Kingham around, Taylor lays into her with repeated forearm strikes to the face. Once Kingham is whipped into the far corner, Taylor darts across the ring and…

*THWACK!*

… blasts Kingham with another yakuza kick! The boos continue as Kingham slumps down in the corner. Taylor then reaches down, grabs Kingham by the hair and and slowly pulls her back to her feet. After Kingham is whipped back into the previous corner, Taylor runs back across the ring. The crowd boos when Taylor goes for a running hip strike… then gasps when Kingham catches her in mid air! Taylor shakes her head in disbelief as Kingham walks her out of the corner. The crowd then erupts with cheers when Kingham delivers a release German Suplex into the turnbuckles!

Geoff Penzer: Kingham caught Taylor in mid air before hurling her into the turnbuckles with that German Suplex!

While Taylor remains seated in the corner, Kingham gets back to her feet before rushing into the far ropes. When she comes back, she connects with a running face wash. The cheers continue as Kingham runs back into the far ropes. Kingham comes back and delivers yet another running face wash! Kingham looks up and around at the crowd.

ONE MORE TIME!

ONE MORE TIME!

ONE MORE TIME!

ONE MORE TIME!

Kingham nods her head at the Flashpoint Zone before turning to run into the far ropes. When Kingham returns, she picks up speed before blasting Taylor with a third running face wash! Kingham drags Taylor from out of the corner before making the cover.

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

The crowd boos when Taylor gets her shoulder up.

As Kingham slowly pulls Taylor back to her feet, Taylor swats Kingham’s hands off of her. She then throws out another high roundhouse kick. This time, Kingham swats the foot away from her and counters with a Samoan Spike that drops Taylor! While Taylor is still down, Kingham heads into the corner and waves her up. The International Heavyweight Champion slowly turns over on all fours. As she tries to get back up, Kingham rushes out of the corner and throws out another Knee Trembler. This time, Taylor blocks by grabbing a hold of Kingham’s leg. The crowd boos when Taylor lifts Kingham up and delivers a shinbreaker. While Kingham hobbles on one leg, Taylor turns and heads into the ropes. When the Las Vegas Siren returns, she tackles Kingham down with a Lou Thesz Press before laying into her with repeated right hands to the face! She then pulls Kingham back to her feet, places her in a headlock and goes for another bulldog. Once again, Kingham shoves Taylor off. This time, Taylor crashes sternum-first into the top turnbuckle! As Taylor stumbles back, Kingham grabs her from behind and goes for another German Suplex. The crowd gasps when Taylor’s able to rotate and land on her feet! As Kingham tries to get back to a vertical base, Taylor cuts her off as she runs over and brings Kingham down with The Gamble (corkscrew neckbreaker)! While Kingham is down, Taylor steps out onto the apron before climbing the turnbuckles. Taylor gets one foot on the top turnbuckle and then stops to yell at the crowd. She then fully steps up onto the top turnbuckle and leaps off with a Frog Splash. The crowd erupts with cheers when Kingham gets her knees up!

Geoff Penzer: Kingham blocked the Frog Splash! That split second that Taylor stopped proved costly!

Taylor bounces off Kingham’s knees before rolling across the ring. The Las Vegas Siren continues to howl in pain while she guards her midsection. Across the ring, Kingham turns over on all fours before crawling into the corner. She slowly pulls herself up using the ropes. After turning around, she sees Taylor slowly pulling herself up using the ropes in the opposite corner. Kingham then charges across the ring. When Taylor turns around, her head snaps back after Kingham nails her with a running European Uppercut! After a standing European Uppercut is delivered, spittle flies out of Taylor’s mouth when Kingham nails her with a discus European Uppercut! Kingham pulls Taylor from out of the corner and lifts her up into a Canadian Backbreaker Rack. Before Kingham can follow up with a move, Taylor kicks her legs until she slips down from behind. When Kingham turns around, she ducks another roundhouse kick from Taylor and counters with a Brazilian Kick to the back fo the head! Kingham pulls Taylor up from off her knee, lifts her back up across her shoulder sand brings her down with a Canadian Backbreaker Drop! Kingham makes the cover.

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

The crowd boos when Taylor gets her shoulder up.

Kingham pulls Taylor up and lifts her up across her shoulders into an Argentine Backbreaker Rack. Before Kingham can deliver a move, Taylor counters with elbows to the head. She then slips down from behind. When Kingham turns around, she ducks the Ultimecia (spinning backfist) from Taylor. When Kingham pops her head up, Taylor finally catches her with a roundhouse kick! After doubling Kingham over with a kick to the midsection, Taylor lifts her up and plants her with a brainbuster! She turns over and makes the cover.

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

The crowd cheers when Kingham gets her shoulder up.

The crowd gasps when Taylor quickly gets back to her feet and steps through the ropes. After scaling to the top turnbuckle, she leaps off and crashes down across Kingham with a Frog Splash! Taylor bounces off of Kingham and turns over onto her back. Taylor guards her midsection before slowly turning over and draping her arm across Kingham for the cover.

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

The crowd cheers when Kingham gets her shoulder up.

Taylor slowly gets back to her feet before backing up into the corner. While Kingham is still down, Taylor steps out onto the apron before climbing the turnbuckles. Kingham tries to sit up. But Taylor cuts her off when she leaps off and flattens Kingham with another Frog Splash! Taylor hooks the far leg for the cover.

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

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

Geoff Penzer: How much closer can you get!?

Taylor slowly pulls up Kingham by the hair. She lifts her up for another brainbuster when Kingham counters with a knee to the head on the way up. Once Kingham is lowered back down, she goes for another discus European Uppercut. The crowd boos when Taylor cuts her off with the Ultimecia! She then takes Kingham and whips her into the corner. After running into the corner and hitting a clothesline, she turns Kingham around before lifting her up onto the middle ropes. Taylor then steps out onto the apron before climbing the turnbuckles. The crowd stands up when Taylor positions Kingham for Welcome to Sin City (avalanche shiranui)! Before Taylor delivers the move, Kingham frees herself! She then grabs Taylor around the waist and throws her down with an avalanche German Suplex!

Geoff Penzer: TOP ROPE GERMAN SUPLEX FROM KIN-

The crowd gasps when Taylor rotates once again and lands on her feet!!! As Kingham tries to get back to a vertical base, Taylor rushes over and blasts her with yet another yakuza kick in the corner! She then pulls Kingham from out of the corner, doubles her over with a boot to the midsection and then plants her with the Siren’s Song (Scissored DDT)! The crowd sighs and boos as Taylor pushes Kingham onto her back. Taylor then lays her back across Kingham and hooks the near leg for the cover.

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

The crowd gasps, then cheers when Kingham gets her shoulder up. The Las Vegas Siren does a double take.

Geoff Penzer: Kingham got her shoulder up in time! Savannah Taylor is racking her brain! She’s wondering what she has to do to put this young woman down for good!

Taylor looks over at the ref, but he’s not about to hear it from her. He holds up two fingers at the International Heavyweight Champion. Frustrated, Taylor begins to slap the canvas.

Geoff Penzer: Taylor is losing it before our very eyes!

Taylor grabs Kingham by the hair. She slowly pulls Kingham back to her feet until Kingham quickly grabs her by the arm and brings her down with a double knee armbreaker! Taylor clutches her arm while she lays on the mat. She then slowly turns over on all fours. Taylor tries to get back to her feet when Kingham blasts her in the side of the head with a Knee Trembler! The cheers continue as Kingham pushes Taylor over onto her back. She makes the cover.

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

The crowd gasps, then sighs and boos when Taylor gets her foot on the bottom rope.

Geoff Penzer: KINGHAM NEARLY HAD HER!

Kingham takes Taylor and drags her away from the ropes before making the cover.

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

Taylor gets her shoulder up.

Kingham picks up Taylor, lifts her up across her back and brings her down with an Argentine Neckbreaker! The cheers continue as Kingham makes the cover.

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

The crowd gasps, then sighs when Taylor gets her shoulder up.

Geoff Penzer: ANOTHER CLOSE CALL FOR THE CHAMPION!

Kingham picks up Taylor and grabs her by the arm to set up a single arm DDT. Taylor uses her free arm to nail Kingham with punches to the head. Once Taylor’s free, she delivers another Ultimecia before driving Kingham down with Blonde Ambition! The boos continue as Taylor steps out onto the apron and climbs to the top turnbuckle. Taylor remains in a crouched position while Kingham tries to push herself. Once Kingham is back to her feet, Taylor stands up, flips off and brings her down with Dancing Mad (diving somersault huracanrana)! The ref slides into place for the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!






Geoff Penzer: NO!

The crowd erupts with cheers when Kingham kicks out at the very last second. Taylor can’t believe it!

Geoff Penzer: KINGHAM KICKED OUT! SHE KICKED OUT! THE FLASHPOINT ZONE IS BESIDE ITSELF!

The official holds up two fingers at Taylor. Furious, Taylor gets to her feet, marches over and drags Kingham back towards the center of the ring before turning her over into the Stretch Muffler!

Geoff Penzer: Taylor with the Heartless Angel!

Kingham groans as Taylor continues to apply pressure to the hold. The ref gets down and asks Kingham if she wants to give up. When Kingham refuses, Taylor kneels down on Kingham’s back.

Geoff Penzer: Taylor’s really got it locked in now!

Taylor continues to pull down on the hold while Kingham howls in pain. The official asks Kingham if she wants to give up. The capacity crowd here in the Flashpoint Zone continue to rally behind Kingham and tries to will her back into this match,

LET’S GO KENDALL!

LET’S GO KENDALL!

LET’S GO KENDALL!

LET’S GO KENDALL!

Kingham lets out a groan as she plants her palms down on the mat and slowly pushes up, using Taylor’s knee to slip off her back. The Las Vegas Siren responds with a stomp to the back of the head. Kingham tries to fight her way out of the hold. But she gets another stomp to the back of the head. A third stomp to the back of the head knocks Kingham down! Kingham pushes herself back up when Taylor knocks her down with another stomp to the back of the head! The crowd erupts with boos when Taylor delivers repeated stomps to the back of the head! The official gets down and asks Kingham if she wants to give up. Kingham doesn’t respond. The referee pleads with Kingham to either respond or try to fight her way out of the hold. But Kingham remains motionless while Taylor continues to rain down stomp after stomp to to the back of the head! The official has seen enough. He rushes over and moves Taylor off of Kingham before calling for the bell!

Geoff Penzer: That’s it! The ref is calling it!

Melanie Sierra: Here is your winner by referee stoppage, SAVANNAH TAYLOR!

The crowd erupts with boos when Taylor gets her arm raised in victory. The official rushes over and checks on Kingham while Taylor stands victorious.

Geoff Penzer: The official risked potential injury to Kingham if he let this match continue on. It was apparent that Kingham was knocked out by those cumulative stomps to the head. This isn’t the way this crowd wanted the match to end. This isn’t the result that Kingham wanted. But the official did what he had to do for her safety and I don’t blame him. Savannah Taylor picks up the victory. Not just by pinfall or submission. But by referee stoppage! She’s sending a point to Jimmy Page loud and clear. She isn’t afraid of him! She won’t back down from him! But for her safety and for the well-being of her career, maybe she should...

After snatching her International Heavyweight Championship from the ring announcer, Taylor looks at the hard camera and points to it before pointing down at Kingham. With her message sent, the Las Vegas Siren slowly raises her championship as the show fades out.