Vertigo E85

[FGA Office]

[FGA Office]

Grand Ballroom at Manhattan Center
New York, NY

The lights dim as the sound of a guitar plays throughout the arena. Multi-colored 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” by And So I Watch You From Afar bursts through the speakers. Chandler Scott slowly exits through the curtain and is immediately met with a cascade of cheers.

Kris Cruise: There he is! For the first time since March 2019, Chandler Scott is back in FGA! Listen to this crowd!

Chandler remains on the stage. He begins to slowly scan the crowd. The production truck cuts to a pocket of fans giving him a Standing O. Another camera cut shows a pocket of fans standing up and bowing. We then cut to another shot of a fan holding up his “DNA of FGA” sign proudly. We then cut back to Chandler as he takes in all the positivity.

Stephy Auger: The last Chandler was in FGA, they were booing him out of the arena!

Kris Cruise: It’s been a long time since Chandler has heard these cheers from the FGA fans. This crowd, despite being limited in capacity, is giving him one hell of an ovation upon his return!

Chandler walks down the path towards the ring. He looks to his right and points to a random fan before placing his hand over his heart. The Hall of Famer looks off to his left and does the same. Reaching the end of the aisle, Chandler's gaze turns towards the steel steps. His head lowers as he wipes the tears away from his eyes. If you know, you know. Instead of running up the steps, Chandler hops up to a knee on the apron before getting up to his feet. He wipes said feet off before slowly stepping in through the ropes. Once he’s fully back into the ring, Chandler slowly runs his hand along the top rope. It’s been a long, long time since he’s been inside the squared circle. 

Chandler times his ascension onto the ropes with the second chorus of his theme. His eyes close before a tear escapes to run down his cheek. He gives a subtle nod upon hearing the crowd hum along to the chorus. It’s as if it’s 2017 or 2018 all over again. Chandler opens his eyes and stares down the crowd while he's perched up on the ropes. The man that once billed himself as the FGAce climbs down to the mat before making a beeline across the ring. Ring Announcer J.A. Aldridge gladly hands over the mic. Chandler greets him with a head nod when he hears Aldridge tell him, “welcome back”.

“Animal Ghosts” ends, but the crowd is still hot. Chandler goes to lift the mic to speak, but he’s quickly cut off with “Welcome Back!” chants. He can’t hold it back any longer and finally lets out a smile. Again, Chandler pats his heart. The limited capacity crowd continue to show their appreciation before finally letting him speak.

Chandler Scott: Thank you…

Another roar of cheers are heard.

Chandler Scott: I don't think I ever said it before. But you truly have no idea how much that means to me.

Chandler gets greeted with applause.

Chandler Scott: I-I... I don't know even know where to begin. So I guess I'll just come out with it...

Chandler Scott: The reports of my demise... the reports of my career ending, they weren't greatly exaggerated. Far form it. They were accurate. Painfully accurate.

The crowd stays silent when Chandler recounts what was probably the darkest days of his professional career.

Chandler Scott: The last time you guys saw me in this ring, I was tied up in those very ropes just before getting part of my ear bitten off... and having it spat right back in my face.

He runs his hand down his face before continuing to recount the events of his last match.

Chandler Scott: The last time you saw me in this ring, it was surrounded by a steel cage. I climbed and climbed and climbed that chain links to try and escape. To ty and survive. But as soon as I got to the top of that steel cage, I was chucked off it with a suplex…

Chandler raises his index finger in the air. He slowly brings it down while continuing to speak.

Chandler Scott: ...falling fifteen feet before hitting this...

Chandler kneels down and smacks the canvas as hard as he can with his hand.

Chandler Scott: ...with a thunderous thud. Then came one bare knee to the head. Then a second. Then a third. Then a fourth. I was bloodied. I was beaten. I was broken. Mentally and emotionally, I was broken. Was I physically broken? Not quite yet. That would come moments later. I gave up. I submitted to that arm bar. But the verbally submission wasn't enough... for him. Hearing my cry and scream for mercy wasn't enough for him. My cries didn't satiate him. Those harrowing screams weren't music to his ears. He wanted more.

Chandler rises back to his feet and gives the camera a nonchalant shrug.

Chandler Scott: So he broke my right arm.

Chandler then holds out his left arm.

Chandler Scott: ... then he broke this one.

Chandler lowers his head. The crowd sit in silence while he continues to recount the brutality that followed. Chandler’s gazes turns to one of the corners of the squared circle.

Chandler Scott: ... then he dragged me across this ring right over to that very corner, where he took the cage door and slammed it against my head for what must have been a dozen times. I wasn't aware in the moment as I had already been knocked out after the third one.

He rubs the back of his neck before continuing.

Chandler Scott: And t-t-then…

Chandler starts to point out towards the steel steps. His eyes begin to water before he shakes it off. He starts to pace back and forth in a desperate attempt to regain composure. The crowd picks up on how uncomfortable and painful this is, so they try to show their support with ‘Chandler!” chants. Chandler raises his left hand to simmer them down.

Chandler Scott: The bottom line is that cuts and gashes can be stitched up. Broken bones can be repaired. But there's no surgery that can fix the mental and emotional scars that were inflicted upon me... or the ones that I inflicted upon others.

He shakes his head with shame.

Chandler Scott: When I came out here, you cheered. You rejoiced. You chanted my name as if I was some returning hero. You remember the good times. The great matches. The great memories. Whether it be here or elsewhere, I've spent my career being booed far more than I was cheered. But still, despite everything, you give me this warm welcome. I don't know what else to say but... thank you.

Chandler is met with a downpour of cheers. He wipes his eyes before continuing.

Chandler Scott: I made my professional wrestling debut on August 27, 2011. Unlike a lot of newcomers today that enter this business at 18, 19 or 20 years old, I was in my my late 20s. June 6 will mark my 37th birthday. I'm not getting any younger. I'm not as fast as I used to me. I'm not as agility as I used to me. I was never the fastest or the most agile to begin with. When I took time off in December of 2015, it was due to an accumulation of injuries of going too hard, too fast. Being at the top of my game, being a World Champion in multiple companies was great in the moment. But it came at a cost. The price I paid were the injuries that kept me out of action for the following six months. The injuries that I suffered on that fateful night of March 6, 2019... those were injuries caused by something else. By someone else. Those injuries have kept me out of professional wrestling and out of the public light for over two years. Two years…

He holds up two fingers.

Chandler Scott: I might look fine now. But it took many surgeries to get this…

Chandler points to his face.

Chandler Scott: ... to looking normal again. It took weeks for some things to heal. It took months for other things to heel. S-some things... will probably never heal…

His lips quiver before his jaw tightens. The crowd begins to murmur when they see Chandler lower his head. He continue to stand in silence for roughly fifteen seconds before looking back up to address the people.

Chandler Scott: ... it's been a long and exhausting process to get back to here, to tonight, to this very point in time. I was going to save this for some other time. But when I saw that FGA was promoting an event around taking names from its past and putting them up against names from its present, I knew that I had to be apart of it. I had to be apart of it because, simply put, that's where this all has to end.

A collection of gasps, boos and jeers are heard. Some fans are even shouting “NO!” over and over. Chandler shakes them off with a shake of the head.

Chandler Scott: I'm not what I once was. Physically, I'm not what I used to be. I would be lying if I said that I was. As much as I don't want to face reality, the fact of the matter is that I realistically only have one match left in me.

He holds up his index finger.

Chandler Scott: If this were the Chandler Scott of 2015 or even 2019, I would probably make one of you come out here and beg for the opportunity and the honor of having my last match against you. But that's not me. Not anymore. So now I put myself in the position of others that have stood across the ring from me when their career was coming to an end. I think back to 2016, when Chris Strike....

The mention of the Brazilian gets cheers from the crowd.

Chandler Scott: ... when Chris Strike came to FGA to face me and a certain somebody on his retirement tour. Chris respected that certain someone. With me? There was no love lost there. He wanted to end his career saying that he kicked my ass. I happened to leave him very disappointed on that night…

Chandler gets a few laughs from the crowd.

Chandler Scott: ... but still, regardless of the issues between us, he wanted to face me as he was winding his career down. I then think to 2018 when Emilio Vialpando…

Chandler acknowledges the “LAX!” chants that break out.

Chandler Scott: ...when Emilio wanted to wrestle his very last match against me. Emilio wasn't an FGA mainstay. He had a cup of coffee in Dynamic Duos. But HKW was his home. That's where he made his memories. That's where he had his great rivalries. That's where his Hall of Fame plaque resided. Yet still, that man had enough respect for me that he wanted to face me in his very last match.

The crowd cheers the mention of the match between him and Emilio a Pro Wrestling Neo’s “Choose Your Fighter - Night One”.

Chandler Scott: I think back to 2017, when that same somebody that faced Chris Strike in 2016, wanted her very last match to be against me. On FGA's Anniversary Show, no less. I would love to get in there and mix it up with the young guns. I would love to get in there and face this companies great champions. As soon a my name was announced, there were several that lobbied to have their name next to mine on the card. I even know that Lowri Moss...

The mention of the Welsh superstar is met with thunderous cheers and applause.

Chandler Scott: I know that Lowri still has my name on that wish list of hers. I never forgot, Lowri. You're far better than me than I was at your age and at the rate you're going, you may very well be the best to ever to do here or anywhere else.

The statement is met with applause from the crowd.

Chandler Scott: BUT! But... somebody that meant something to me gave me that opportunity back in 2017 to share the ring with them for what was at the time their last match. At this point, I feel that it's appropriate that I do the same and return the favor. So next Saturday, at FGA Past vs Present, it will be me... against Cordelia Stevenson…

The mention of the match is met with an eruption of cheers. But there’s a smattering of boos that cut into those cheers. Not for Chandler, but for Cordy Stevenson’s recent attitude change.

Chandler Scott: One more time... for the last time. Thank you.

With that, Chandler reaches down and gently places the mic in the center of the ring. “Animal Ghosts” starts up against while Chandler rolls out of the ring and makes his way back up the aisle.

Kris Cruise: Chandler says he only has one match left in him. He wants Cordy Stevenson, one more time for the last time, at Past vs Present.

Stephy Auger: Can you imagine if Cordy retires him with a loss? I bet she’s been dying to do this for years!

Kris Cruise: Ladies and gentlemen, Chandler Scott just dropped several bombshells on us tonight. But that was just the start of tonight’s show. We’ve got a card full of action for you all this evening! So stay tuned, we’ll be right back after this!

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

The camera shifts to the backstage area in the Melrose Ballroom. The focus is on Amanda Johnson as she offers a smile to greet the night’s viewers.

Amanda Johnson: Good evening everyone. I’m here with Theodore Harris.

The camera pans over and pulls back to reveal Theodore Harris, wearing a beige suit and charcoal grey button up shirt beneath it, standing near a locker room door.

Amanda Johnson: How are you doing this evening Theodore?

He offers a small smile and a shrug in return.

Theodore Harris: No real complaints on my part. Mainly just passing time until the night really begins. Not unlike the last time we crossed paths on Vertigo.

Amanda Johnson: Is there any chance that I could get a word with Logan before his match?

She motions towards the door a short distance behind him. Theodore’s smile turns into an amused smirk.

Theodore Harris: You’re always welcome to make the attempt. Unfortunately, right at this moment isn’t the time. He’s finishing his preparations. But if you want to try later on, you could always drop by again.

Amanda offers a resigned smile in return.

Amanda Johnson: Alright, maybe I will. Anyway, Logan will be participating shortly in the opening match tonight, squaring off against Zack Gall. How is Logan feeling about this particular matchup?

Theodore crosses his arms over his chest and tips his head back slightly.

Theodore Harris: It’s a step up from his last outing against Sarah Santa Monica. That match was a one sided Christmas drubbing for her. We’re both expecting more from the opposition this evening, but we aren’t really expecting too much more tonight.

Amanda Johnson: It sounds like the two of you might be dismissing Zack Gall. Is that such a good idea? It could be a recipe for an upset.

He moves one hand out in front of himself and waves it back and forth slightly as though to ward off such a thought.

Theodore Harris: Let’s not jump to conclusions here, Amanda. Just because we aren’t expecting a lot out of Zack Gall here tonight doesn’t mean that Logan will be going out there and offering less than his best in the ring. It’s just that neither of us believes that Zack will be up to the test that is awaiting him tonight. We base that on reviewing his body of work going back several months. It’s hardly an inspiring collection. It’s been a series of defeats against opposition that are more talented and motivated. He simply does not come across as an opponent ready to take the next step, or any step quite frankly.

He folds his arms across his chest again and then shrugs while offering a disappointed frown.

Theodore Harris: He recently was in a position, multiple times, to earn himself title match opportunities for the Mid Atlantic Legacy championship. He was the first removed from the elimination chase and was the person beaten in the second chance contender’s match. It’s been quite a while since I can recall him winning a match here in FGA, so I don’t really see how I could be blamed for not expecting much to be coming Logan’s way tonight. But he is a step up from Sarah Santa Monica, even if it’s not much of one. He was considered for title contention after all. That counts for something I suppose.

He lets out an exaggerated sigh.

Theodore Harris: After this, I suppose that Logan will resume his slow ascent against whoever FGA management deems appropriate for him.

Amanda Johnson: So does that mean that Logan has a goal in mind for his near future?

Theodore considers this question for a moment.

Theodore Harris: No.

Amanda looks quite surprised by that.

Amanda Johnson: No?

Theodore Harris: No. Logan has nothing he is aiming for here in FGA right now. If there is one thing he has learned over the last four years, it is that his ambitions have a tendency to be ignored by FGA management. They certainly seem to have only considered him to be strictly a tag team competitor in the past. Considering the track record that he and Ashlyn had compiled before their… irreconcilable differences came to a head, I suppose that it could be understandable, but that doesn’t make it the correct conclusion. Logan had made it clear in words and actions that he should have been considered for other opportunities.

Amanda Johnson: Well… certainly FGA management considered that at the time and had reason to decide against it.

Theodore snorts derisively at that.

Theodore Harris: Of course. It was apparently the fact that he wasn’t Lowri Moss.

Amanda appears baffled by that response and it takes her a few moments to try and articulate a response.

Amanda Johnson: I’m sorry?

Theodore regards her sympathetically.

Theodore Harris: Pendragon are FGA’s greatest tag team in the history of the company. No if’s, and’s or but’s about it. Even the Chaotics don’t hold a candle to Lowri Moss and Neal Durden, and they are the only other tandem even remotely in the same conversation. Pendragon had an extended run as the United States Tag Team champions before crushing all records as World Tag Team champions. But during those periods Lowri, and even Neal, was challenging for singles titles and Lowri won a few of those matches. She has been a double champion in FGA multiple times at this point.

A pause.

Theodore Harris: Now certainly in hindsight, I can’t say that Logan’s FGA tenure stacks up to Lowri’s in any regard. At the time though, before Pendragon broke all the records, the argument could be made that Logan deserved to have at least one opportunity to do something similar to Lowri Moss. They were in comparable positions during their tag title runs. The closest Logan ever got to a single’s title match was the finals of the Frontier Lion’s Cup way back in 2018, where it took Evan Envi, a World champion calibre opponent from the opposing brand, and everything he could throw at Logan to deny him. But being the runner up wasn’t enough for Logan to get any sort of opportunity despite being one of the best that Flashpoint had at that point. Then within a few months of that moment, everything ended up going off the rails for Logan, so nothing ever came of that accomplishment.

Another pause punctuated by a pointed look from Theodore.

Theodore Harris: So, at this moment, why should Logan be planning for something, even low rung, like a Mid Atlantic Legacy or Fifteen championship match? This is the third match he’s had since returning to FGA competition and he has no recent accomplishments to hold up. Of course, there’s always the option to just go and stick one’s nose into business that doesn’t concern them in order to try and force your way into a title scene you haven’t earned the right to be in. But there is no reason for Logan to resort to tactics like that one that Sloan Talbot used. He didn’t even accomplish anything by doing so. Again. First that business with James Edwards. Then he picked a fight with two people fighting over a championship and then ended up being the one pinned during the resulting triple threat match.

With that, Theodore offers a slow clap and a smug, condescending look towards the camera.

Theodore Harris: Bravo Sloan. Bravo.

He rolls his eyes and lowers his hands.

Theodore Harris: For Logan, all that’s left for him to do now is sit back and just bide his time. No one ever aspires to just be a wrestler collecting a paycheck. Everyone wants to be a champion. But until FGA management decides that Logan is going to get that kind of chance, it looks like he’ll just be the opening act for the shows around here.

Just behind Theodore, the door to the locker room swings inward and a few moments later Logan Alexander steps out from the room, dressed to compete. Amanda and Theodore both turn towards him, but Logan doesn’t acknowledge either of them with a look as he pulls the door shut behind him and starts walking away. Theodore turns back to Amanda, who returns her focus to him as well. He offers her another smirk.

Theodore Harris: But that doesn’t mean he has any intention of going easy on whoever he meets out there.

Theodore glances to the camera once more.

Theodore Harris: Hope you’re ready for what’s coming your way Zack, because we’ll see you shortly.

Theodore offers a glance and nod to Amanda, then turns and heads off after Logan, leaving Amanda there alone for a few moments as the scene fades.

[FGA Office]

Logan Alexander vs. Zack Gall

The bell sounds as Alexander and Gall circle the ring. They go to lock up when Gall opts up for a shoot kick to the right leg. Alexander winces after he gets caught with another shoot kick to the outer thigh. Gall feints another shoot kick with his right leg before using his left leg to nail Alexander with an inside leg kick. Gall goes for another inside leg kick. But Alexander's able to reach down and snatch a hold of his leg. Gall hops up and down on one leg before catching Alexander with an open palm strike. Alexander gets caught with another palm strike. Gall goes for a third, but he gets cut off with a dragon screw leg whip.

Gall struggles to get back to his feet. Alexander immediately snatches up his left leg before bringing him down with another dragon screw leg whip. Alexander maintains a hold of the left leg before delivering multiple elbow drops across it. After the fifth elbow, Alexander stays on the mat, takes hold of Gall’s foot and bends it towards him. Gall howls out in pain before catching Alexander with a clubbing forearm across the face. A second clubbing forearm strike breaks the hold.

Alexander shakes out the cobwebs while Gall slowly gets back to his feet. He limps over, pulls Alexander up and whips him into the ropes. Gall scoops him up off the rebound before throwing him down with a Michinoku Driver II! ONE! TWO! KICKOUT!

Gall moves Alexander into the corner before hitting him with multiple knife edge chops. Gall sets up for an irish whip when Alexander reverses, sending him into the far corner. Alexander rushes in to attack until he gets knocked back with a back elbow to the face. Alexander shakes off the blow, rushes back in and gets knocked back with another elbow to the face. Alexander didn’t learn his lesson the first two times, so he charges back in again. This time, Gall knocks him back with a boot to the face. Gall starts to shake out his leg before stepping out to the apron to climb the turnbuckles. As soon as Gall reaches the top, Alexander rushes forward, dives towards the corner and pushes Gall’s legs out from under him. While Gall sits crotched on the top turnbuckle, Alexander takes his legs and brings them back inside the ring. After taking a hold of Gall’s left leg, Alexander sends him flying off the top turnbuckle with another dragon screw leg whip. Theodore Harris can be seen nodding in approval on the outside.

Gall tries to get back to his feet. But Alexander is right there to rush from behind and take his leg out with a chop block! Alexander pulls him back up and delivers an inverted atomic drop. Gall remains doubled over as Alexander hits the ropes, comes back and sends him crumbling to the mat with a dropkick to the left knee. Alexander latches onto Gall’s left leg and tries to turn him over. But he ends up getting caught with multiple kicks to the face until the last kick sends Alexander down to the mat. Alexander turns over on all fours and tries to shake out the cobwebs. Gall gets back to his feet before using his right leg to hit Alexander with a punt kick to the ribs. He limps over, takes Alexander and moves him back into the corner. A series of shoulder thrusts follow before catching him with a back elbow to the face. He then pulls Alexander into a standing headscissors before lifting him up and planting him with a Cradle Piledriver. The cover gets a count of two. Gall then pulls Alexander back to his feet and places him in position before delivering an Exploder Suplex into the turnbuckles. Alexander continues to try and recover in the corner while Gall makes his way towards the center of the ring. Gall tries to run over to deliver the Death By Knee (V-Trigger). But his left leg gives him. As soon as Gall gets back to his feet, Alexander charges out of the corner and slams him down with the Chaotic Impact (STO)! Alexander then drags onto Gall’s left ankle and drags him over towards the corner. He then rolls to the outside and wraps Gall’s around the ring post before applying a figure four leg lock. Alexander is quickly given a five count to break the illegal hold. Just as the count reaches four, he lets go.

Back inside, Gall turns over and tries to drag himself over towards the center of the ring. Alexander rolls in and stalks him from behind before delivering multiple stomps across the back of the left leg. He then reaches down, applies a rear waist lock and pulls Gall to his feet before delivering the Chaotic Repeater (multiple German Suplexes). After a third German, Alexander pulls Gall back to his feet. Alexander looks like he’s about to deliver another German. Instead, he lets go of the rear waistlock and transitions into an inverted front facelock before bringing Gall down with the Chaotic Shockwave (inverted Implant DDT). With Gall splayed out on the mat, Alexander takes control of his legs before turning him over into the Perfect Chaos Theory (Sharpshooter version). Gall tried to hang out. Dante Difranco is begging him to hang on. But Gall reaches the point where the pain becomes too much to bear. So he taps out.

Winner: Logan Alexander (7:54)

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

Backstage again at the Melrose Ballroom and the FGA Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion Mighty Sparrow is standing by with Amanda Johnson. Tonight The West Indian Whirlwind is not dressed to compete, eschewing his competitive gear for brick red slacks and a dapper looking open dress shirt of gold, black, and red design. The championship is resting on the champ’s left shoulder tonight. Why? Well Sparrow is currently flexing his right hand in slow, focused motions, as if willing it to feel better. No doubt in part because of Laura Perelli from Vertigo 84. Amanda offers a concerned look before she speaks.

Amanda Johnson: Sparrow there are a lot of things I would love to pick your brain about tonight. The very first thing is--

Mighty Sparrow: Honestly Amanda there’s somethin’ I wanna address straight away and that is...We now have Illuminati PROJEKT here in Frontier Grappling Arts.

Amanda Johnson: Well I--

Amanda attempts again but the champion is a bit too jazzed up speaking about the tag team of his girlfriend and her uncle together in FGA.

Mighty Sparrow: I know its bias, y’know. I know we have a wealth of topics to get to but I speakin’ with pride y’know because I for one am ready and excited to see what Gwen and Monty bring about here. Again, bias. Grossly bias y’know. The tag team scene is about to get real wil’ in truth and I can’t be the only one to feel that way. Okay. I done.

Amanda Johnson: Okay well--

Mighty Sparrow: PROJEKT IS COMIN’! THEY TAKIN’ ‘EM UP TO ELEVEN! ...Aight go ahead.

Amanda immediately turns to the camera and mean-mugs before she slowly returns her attention to the champion. He gives her a very cheesy grin and thumbs up and in spite of herself? Johnson does laugh. She fights it, but she does laugh.

Amanda Johnson: Well luckily for you I did want to talk about the tag team scene, not only about the PROJEKT but the recent joining of Cassius Reed and TJ Techniques. Being that TJ has named you as a potential tag partner down the line, what do you make of them as a team?

Mighty Sparrow: Now I’m still thinkin’ Dope Kicks might be a better name...But Technical Might just sounds so thorough. Anyway, its true, me and Teej gonna do that work one day. We’ve had a bit of it in Liberty Pro but brethren is Big Boss over there so I gotta let him do his thing. Same as he been doin’ for me. Now Cassius, The Funky Dragon himself ain’t never been nervous, never been one to doubt...And you know what? Did they or did they not beat the Connection? Did or did not they clean it up for the culture? What the funk you askin’ me Amanda? I think this could be...A... Potentially successful venture that in no way could end up terrible at all, at all, at all.

Amanda...Blinks at Sparrow.

Amanda Johnson: Sparrow, I’m going to ask you the same thing I asked TJ. Are you trying to convince me, or are you trying to convince yourself?

The Mid-Atlantic Legacy champion looks a bit thoughtful, pensive even at the line of inquiry but it seems like he has nothing further to add. Taking this in stride as a personal victory, Amanda switches subjects to FGA Past v. Present.

Amanda Johnson: You will be facing Chris Madison, former two-time FGA Pride champion, a man looking to capture the Mainstream United States Championship again from Skye Healy after he gained his shot and won the United States Grand Prix and the Governor’s Cup. How ready do you feel, facing a veteran of over twenty years? A man who locked up with the likes of Savannah Star or Fujiko Mine in the days long past?

For a few moments Sparrow has to focus forward, as though this question had been plaguing him all the way to the arena from this morning. He lets out an exhale, the champion not...Entirely sure about what is ahead of him.

Mighty Sparrow: Long past. Mm. Twenty years is a long time, Amanda. Twenty years. Two decades. Mr. Mayhem, or just Mayhem like he prefers I suspect...He’s been wrestling almost as long as I been alive. Is it so simple to call him FGA’s Past? Nah. He’s been competing all this time, ain’t? Beat a bunch of names, Cartier included in a Cup, comes lookin’ to collect what was once his back from Healy? That ain’t a ghost of a past to me. Mainstream, APW, 4CW, from CXP to FGA. Name a damn company, name a title, and he been on it, at it, for it. It would be easier, more prevalent to call him Wrestling’s Present.

A single click of the tongue from the FGA Mid-Atlantic Legacy Champion.

Mighty Sparrow: So ya see Amanda. That doesn’t do much but make me not just FGA’s present...But Wrestling’s Future. While I would love to tell the man who once rivaled one of the greatest FGA World champions to this day, that wrestling is in good hands? That FGA is in good hands? What better way to do that...Than prove that?

Amanda nods and looks a little hesitant on the subject matter of her final topic.

Amanda Johnson: On the subject of Laura Perelli. At Vertigo 84 you faced her to a time limit draw. After the match she faked a bit of good sportsmanship once she saw your arm was feeling the effects of the match, she was on the attack. Care to offer your thoughts?

Mighty Sparrow: In the process of lookin’ like a bobblehead and comin’ out the match of a ti--

Before he can finish his thought? Our dear Sparrow nearly crumbles into Amanda, as he’s wallopped from behind. Amanda yelps and steps backward as Sparrow collapses forward, looking in the direction of the attacker--before taking an extra step away, as she spots the look in Laura Perelli’s eyes the moment she steps into camera shot. Laura drags Sparrow back up to his feet, just to drop him with another right hand...before pulling a pair of brass knuckles off her hand, tucking them into the back pocket of her jeans.

Amanda starts to intervene, if nothing else than to ask Laura what the hell she’s doing, but the moment the Jersey Devil hears her voice start to speak up, a twisted sneer curls on her face and she casts a glare in Amanda’s direction that might be actively trying to set her on fire. Rather than risk the Jersey Devil’s ire on this particular evening, Amanda just abandons the set--and Laura mounts Sparrow’s fallen body, raining punches down on the fallen Mid-Atlantic Champion.

Sparrow tries to fight back; he covers up and at least tries to push Laura away, but between getting sucker punched, the two shots with brass knuckles, and La Principessa’s better positioning, there’s not a whole lot he can do other than cover up and try to protect the hurt arm, that’s clearly Laura’s target--and if she can’t get it, she’ll wrap her hands around his throat and strangle him until she can. He scratches and claws and pries at Laura’s arms, but eventually, she’s able to get what she wants: Sparrow’s injured right arm, trapped in a keylock position.

She doesn’t wrench the submission, though.

Instead? She gets up to her feet, literally stepping on Sparrow’s hand to keep his arm in place...before raising her leg up, and stomping directly downwards, twisting Sparrow’s shoulder and compressing the elbow, leaving him screaming and clutching the arm. Laura stands over him, looking down with a smirk. After just a moment, she gathers up the Mid-Atlantic Championship, raising it up over her head and glancing down at Sparrow as he writhes and groans.

It’s at this point that security finally rushes into the scene, pushing Laura away from Sparrow to prevent him from taking any MORE damage, which the Jersey Devil holds her hands up as if she were innocent in the whole matter...ultimately even leaving the scene, with the championship slung over her shoulder, as the medics and security surround Sparrow, and the scene cuts away.

[FGA Office]

We cut to another area backstage inside the Manhattan Center. Standing by is veteran reporter Spencer Burke. Spencer is dressed n his usual business attire before introducing us to his guests at this time.

Spencer Burke: This is Spencer Burke here and joining me right now are Max Powers and Landon Knight, the Super Mario Wrestling Bros!

*GARLP-GARLP-GARLP*

The sound of someone entering or exiting a Warp Pipe is heard nesrby. Seconds later, the SMWB walk into the frame. The appearance of Powers and Knight gets a round of cheers from the crowd. Knight rubs his hands with anticipation. He looks pumped (both figuratively and literally) and ready to go, despite not being scheduled to compete. Powers, however, has a solemn demeanor. He stuffs his hands in his pockets before his gaze shifts to the floor. Knight does a double take when he turns and looks back at his partner. So he smacks him on the arm, takes his two index fingers and moves them upward, gesturing for him to smile. Powers just responds with a shrug. Knight just waves it off before nodding to Burke.

Landon Knight: What's happening, Spence?

Spencer Burke: We have't seen you guys since you unsuccessfully challenge for the World Tag Team Titles at All-Star Showdown IX. A lot has changed since that match.

Knight agrees with that statement with a nod.

Landon Knight: Yes it has, Spence. Yes it has. We were THIS close to becoming your two time Tag Team champs. Max and I thought that we were gonna be the ones to finally take those titles from Pendragon. As it turns out, the only ones who could take those titles away from them were each other. Neal ended up retiring, Lowri vacated the belts and now those titles sit there looking all lonely without owners to claim them. I'd be lying if I said that the Red 'n' Green Machine didn't want those belts. But I understand that like... we were the last ones who failed as challenges for them. So we gotta start all the way back at the end of the line. It sucks. It truly, truly sucks, man. But you know what? We'll get back there. We'll get into position to challenge for those titles once again and when we do, we'll win back those titles.

Spencer Burke: Max, I know that match was especially hard for you, given everything that transpired bewteen you and Neal Durden.

Before Max can field the question, he lets out a defeated sigh. His reaction draws the concern of the roving reporter, who looks over to Landon to see if Max is alright. Landon take his hand and alternates turning it palm side up and palm side down. 

Max Powers: Looking back, it sucks how everything went down, dude. It's disappointing to walk away form a title match empty handed. But what sucks even more than losing to Pendragon was the fact that I lost a friend in Neal Durden.

Max quickly comes to his senses and smacks himself in the forehead.

Max Powers: But what the heck am I even talking about? Neal made it perfectly clear for the whole world to hear that he and I? We were never friends. I meant absolutely nothing to him in the grand scheme of things. SMWB? We just a name to cross off a list. We were just a notch for his belt. So... yeah...

Max throws his hand up. Landon is right there to try and cheer him up with a pat on the back.

Landon Knight: Hey! Look on the bright side. We got Lowri's respect in the end. She shook our hands after everything and that's all that matters.

Spencer Burke: Going forward, what are your guys' plans for 2021.

Landon Knight: We definitely want one more shot at the tag titles. But we also wanna see this division grow. We wanna go and get in there with some new blood. What are their names?

Landon starts to snap his fingers to try and jog his memory. His eyes light up when he finally remembers. 

Landon Knight: Yes, that's it. The Illuminati PROJEKT. I'm interested to see what the two of them bring to the table. Who knows, the Red 'n' Green Machine could be coming their way sooner or later.

Spencer Burke: Something that's coming your way, Max, is a match tonight against none other than Ace Voltage. You and Ace will be going one on one in a Pride Rules match. Your thoughts?

Max Powers: Hey man, I'm no singles wrestlers. I never claimed to be one. I don't ever dream of being one. Tag teaming with this guy right here...

Landon nods after Max slaps him on the chest.

Max Powers: ...is the place for me to be. But I do have that Pride Rules match tonight against Ace Voltage. Ace may be a lot of things.

Landon Knight: Boy is he ever!

Max Powers: You can say a lot about him.

Landon takes his arms and spreads them out as far as he can. 

Max Powers: But one thing you can't deny is that he's dang good at what he does. So Ace, you might think you have the advantage going into this match against a tag guy. You might think I'm gonna be in trouble because I won't have Landon there waiting on the apron. But he's gonna be there in spirit. He'll be behind me. All the Mario Bros and Broettes in the crowd, they'll be behind him. Tonight, I plan on shocking the world when I 1-Up the competition two times in one night!

[FGA Office]

Illuminati PROJEKT vs. The Gourdbusters

Monty Margolis and Olé Anderson start things off for their respective squads. Anderson heads to the center of the ring and offers the FGA newcomer a handshake. As soon as Monty goes in for the handshake, Anderson tries to cheap shot him with a kick to the midsection. But this isn’t Monty’s first rodeo, so he’s easily able to catch Anderson’s foot before bringing him down with a dragon screw leg whip. Monty is quick to lift up Anderson’s right leg before dropping down into a Heel Hook. Anderson cries out in pain while Monty arches back on the hold. Before Anderson can tap, Gully Blanchard makes the save by delivering a running stomp.

With Blanchard back out of the apron, Monty starts to pull Anderson back to his feet. The crowd boos when Anderson catches him with a rake to the eyes. He then takes Monty and lifts him up for a vertical suplex, only for Monty to slip down from behind. Monty then sets up for a German Suplex until Anderson counters with a back elbow to the face. He then performs a standing switch and sets up for a German of his own. But Monty’s able to bring him down with a spinning drop toe hold before transitioning into a kneebar. Anderson once again cries out in pain. After turning down the ref’s initial offer to give up, Anderson pulls himself towards the side of the ring before grabbing the bottom rope. Monty then breaks the hold during the ref’s five count before tagging in Gwen Margolis. Illuminati PROJEKT then take Anderson and send him for the ride before catching him off the rebound with CONFYRMATION (low superkick from Gwen, followed by a running knee smash) for a two count.

Gwen takes Anderson, sends him back into the ropes with an irish whip and catches him off the rebound with a basement dropkick. She goes over and lifts up his right leg before delivering a grounded dragon screw. Gwen lifts up the leg and delivers three elbow drops across it. She then sets up Anderson for a figure four, but he escapes by raking her across the eyes. Gwen is then whipped into the ropes. When she returns, she slides right through Anderson’s legs. When Anderson turns around, Gwen pops back to her feet and throws out a superkick. Anderson catches her foot, swings the leg away from him and goes for a belly to back suplex. Gwen is able to counter by rolling over his back and landing on her feet before following up with a Japanese rolling clutch. ONE! TWO! KICKOUT!

Gwen pulls Anderson up and catches him with two forearm shots before a European Uppercut sends him stumbling back towards the ropes. Blanchard is quick to reach over and make the tag. Gwen rushes over before he can get in. But Blanchard strikes first with a shoulder thrust through the ropes. He then runs down the apron, scales to the top turnbuckle and leaps off for a diving double ax handle smash. But Gwen counters on the way down with a superkick. Blanchard remains doubled over until Gwen brings him down with a russian leg sweep for a two count. Blanchard gets pulled back to his feet before getting doubled over with a spinning back kick to the gut. Gwen then takes off into the ropes, comes back and drops him down to a knee with a basement dropkick. She then hits the ropes again before knocking Blanchard flat on his back with a Penalty Kick to the chest. Gwen then goes for a Sharpshooter. But Blanchard uses the strength in his legs to shove her back. Gwen ends up stumbling back into her corner, where Monty makes the blind tag. Blanchard turns over, gets back to his feet and does a double take as Monty leaps off the top and knocks him down with a springboard crossbody. Monty goes for the cover, but Anderson rolls back in, dives over and breaks up the pin.

Anderson shoots Monty off into the ropes. He goes to catch Monty off the rebound with a clothesline, but Monty ducks, floats over across his back and counters with a Crucifix Driver. Monty turns his attention back to Blanchard and gets caught with a knee strike to the midsection. He then lifts Monty up for a scoop slam, but Monty’s able to slip down from behind. He quickly doubles Blanchard over with a European Uppercut across he back of the neck before Gwen rushes in and brings him down with a swinging neckbreaker, completing the TRUTH IS OUT THERE combo. After Gwen stomps Anderson out of the ring, Monty takes hold of Blanchard and hoists him up before the Illuminati PROJEKT bring him down with AREA 51 (wheelbarrow lift from Monty into a Codebreaker from Gwen)! Monty makes the cover and gets the ONE, TWO, THREE!

Winners: Illuminati PROJEKT (5:49)

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

We then return to the locker room where one half of tonight’s main event has populated it and looks to be getting in the right mindframe. The FGA World Champion, Seth Iser, is sitting on a chair with what seems to be a pair of headphones hooked up to his phone and a heating pad on his long ailing left knee and his arms crossed. It seems he has changed into his wrestling gear, choosing to go with a more normal black and red variant, as he’s going through his normal maintenance and routine. The gleam of his championship is in the locker right behind him. The veteran’s eyes are completely shut in this meditation of sorts but his eyes crack open when the door swings open.

The camera pans back a bit and the International Heavyweight Champion, Cordelia Stevenson, casually strolls into the locker room. She grabs a chair and sets it next to Seth. Taking a seat and getting comfortable, she leans back and crosses her legs as she gives him an acknowledging nod.

Cordelia Stevenson: I see someone is getting ready for their matchup tonight.

Seth takes off his headphones and pushes a button on the phone so music won't blare in the room before making eye contact with his fellow champion. He’s calm and relaxed, as if he might have expected a visitor.

Seth Iser: It's to be expected.

Soon enough Seth quickly studies her before noticing something a little unusual and while still obviously relaxed his face does have a light frown.

Seth Iser: You're not in your ring gear. Especially since they aren't going to turn your match with Izzy into a damned street fight. Nor are you one to just visit someone’s locker room just to do it. There’s a purpose in your eyes. So I’ll just cut to the chase...what’s on your mind?

Cordelia cracks an impish smile as she glances down at her outfit, taking note of Seth’s observance.

Cordelia Stevenson: Yeah. That match with Izzypop? It ain’t happening.

She casually shrugs as she looks back at Seth.

Cordelia Stevenson: And your match with Evan shouldn’t happen either.

She leans forward resting her elbows on her thighs. Seth blinks his eyes for a moment to digest that sentence a little further.

Seth Iser: It shouldn’t huh…

He mulls that over as he repeats that word and connects the dots as it all dawns on him.

Seth Iser: So you’re walking out on your match with Izzy and want me to do the same thing. Mainly because it does feel a little...unusual for those two respective matches to be going on right now.

Cordy nods.

Cordelia Stevenson: Seth Iser vs Evan Envi is a big time match. The FGA World Champion vs a former champion. You and I both know Evan is no slouch….

She pauses for a second and thinks.

Cordelia Stevenson: Although he did run away from Flashpoint many moons ago because he knew that was where the real killers were apparently.

Cordelia shrugs.

Cordelia Stevenson: But that’s neither here nor there. It’s amazing how that one move eventually led to the showdown that’s bound to happen between us. But…

She waves her hands, getting herself back on track.

Cordelia Stevenson: What I’m saying is, it’s bad enough these people are getting the privilege of seeing Seth Iser vs Cordelia Stevenson for the first time ever in a few weeks. They don’t appreciate us, Seth.

She cocks her head and glares at him sideways.

Cordelia Stevenson: Well, I don’t know, maybe they appreciate you now, Mr. Wrestler of the Year. But you and I? Unifying these belts? That’s historic. It’s more than they deserve to be honest, but seeing you vs Evan? Me vs Izzy? All in the same night?

Cordy vehemently shakes her head.

Cordelia Stevenson: Nah. They don’t deserve to see such greatness. Not anymore. Not until they start showing some damn appreciation.

The elder statesman just leans back on his chair as he just digests all of that. For a brief moment there’s a wry smile etched on Iser’s face but it’s gone after that brief moment.

Seth Iser: They never will, Cordelia. That’s the hell of it. The same people who ‘voted’ me that honor...are the same ones who wait out in the parking lot and slash my tires because I voice something they really didn’t want to hear. The people are damned cowards at the end of the day with selective memory. You do the right thing from a tactical standpoint but because they disagree from a moral standpoint...they suddenly boo you. Or God forbid, they might all start sending you their own cheap and horrendous copies of Lowri’s tights as harassment. They’ve done way worse to me and in the modern age where you can’t try to fight the wrestlers...these degenerates have only gotten more creative rather than take the damn hint.

The frown from Iser’s face is obvious as he lets out a brief sigh.

Seth Iser: As for your proposal...as tempting as it might be to take the night off and give that kind of finger to the paying audience, I have to decline your offer. There’s too many reasons for me to go through with it. A couple of them alone revolve around the financial aspects. I get paid more to wrestle, even more to win. And walking out cheats me out of the money...cheats Allison out of cash for college. And I ain’t about to get into a pissing contest that’ll be a financial strain after Covid, after various closings in promotions and the lay offs that happen. Besides…

A knowing glance from Iser as he’s continuing on.

Seth Iser: Leonard might be Laissez Faire when it comes to putting himself on screen but he’s the type that cares about the bottom line. We take away from that...and well...it’s really going to get expensive for us in a way we probably wouldn’t want it and it’s the type of fight that you could win given time...but it’d be draining your resources and splitting your focus. I’ve saved well but I ain’t taking that risk. Too many lean years’ll wire you to appreciate cash. There are...other ways of doing it. I’ve done it for years...some of it has involved my ‘questionable’ tactics that those people don’t like but the other reason...it’s actually to do with Evan himself. Not in a ‘Oh I want to respect him’ kind of way either because...I lost my respect for him with how he handled the Fujiko situation.

And this is where the more known sneer is coming through from Iser’s face.

Seth Iser: I don’t know when I’m going to get too many more opportunities to straighten Evan out in my own way. That pillock that walked out on Flashpoint? He was a little more ruthless then at least. More of a maverick and hell, more honest with himself. Didn’t have that tenth of a second hesitation when the bell rings doing certain moves in the ring back then. He might be liberated of Valero but now he’s hung himself by the verdict of the court of public opinion. He needs a reminder that if he wants to get back to where he wants to be...he needs to find that tenth of a second and fast. And even if that wasn’t an issue?

He just lets out a brief shrug as he takes off the heating pad on his left knee and even stretches out that knee with a little bit of a grunt.

Seth Iser: I’ve always wanted to punch his smug prick face, stomp on his god forsaken horrible tattoo choice and get paid for it…but I’m not going to talk you out of going where you want to go. But...if you want my advice...for whatever it’s worth from someone who has been wronged by promoters, and especially the fans over the years because I know that’s where you want to be after being held by the same chains that have now consumed Evan.

He reaches behind him and underneath his title and it’s that well known gleam of that protective knee brace that he often wears over his tights.

Seth Iser: You’re clearly wounded by what’s happened. It’s bothering the hell out of you. The thing is...the fans and hell, the other wrestlers, will feed off of that. Oh I’ve been there too...many times. They’ll latch onto it knowing that’s their way of still maintaining some control over you because you’ll get hot and bothered. It’s a different kind of dance and a different kind of hell and it’ll drive you insane if you let it. Now that you’re the villain in their eyes...they’ll keep flaunting those things while they know that it bothers you. Even more so if you’re lashing out at multiple people.

From how he’s lowered his tone, and how relaxed his body language is, it’s clear he’s being sincere. He just puts a neutral expression on his face as he continues.

Seth Iser: But turn your sore spots where you can be wounded and wear’m like armor. That way...nobody, not the people, not the other wrestlers, not promoters even...can use any of those things as hooks to harm you or your value to the industry. You won’t get to ALL of them, that’s impossible, but most of them with how driven you are? That can be accomplished. It then means you don’t even have to say it half the time that you’re the one...they’ll just know by how you walk, how you present yourself, and how you take care of your business. You won’t be liked or loved even if this was never a business to be those things in my opinion...but even the blind’ll see that they’ll have to respect you.

Cordelia listens intently, taking in every single word that Seth said. She was wise enough to be a sponge in certain situations and this was definitely one of them. Finally she nods.

Cordelia Stevenson: I get it. That bank account needs to be padded. Tuition has to get paid. I’ll never knock someone for taking care of and providing for their family, and I can tell that you’re dying to get your hands on Evan.

She lets out a sigh.

Cordelia Stevenson: Almost in the same way that I’ve looked forward to this match with Izzy. Our history is well documented. She was one of the people I beat on the night I won that very belt that you’re holding. She was also the one to take it away from me. As it stands now, we’re 1-1. A tiebreaker between us is long overdue, and something I’ve looked forward to from the moment I made my comeback. This is something I’ve really wanted for a long time.

Her brows furrow now as a frown forms on her face.

Cordelia Stevenson: Which is exactly why I see this match for what it is. The timing of it isn’t fooling me, and Lenny isn’t slick. He’s hoping to appease me, to give me something I want in hopes that it’ll smooth things over.

The thought that she’s being played doesn’t sit right with her. Her nostrils flare and she grits her teeth. Seth considers this all keeping as much of a mask as possible while processing this.

Cordelia Stevenson: You’re right, Lenny cares about his bottom line, which is exactly why he knows Cordelia Stevenson is not someone to have as an enemy. He wants me to play nice, but I won’t.

Her tone is defiant.

Cordelia Stevenson: Not this time. I’ve done that for far too long. People like you and I? We make this company run. This company was built on the blood, sweat and tears of warriors like us. Our backs were the foundation in which this empire was built upon, and these people better recognize that.

She slowly stands to her feet, slinging her belt over her shoulder.

Cordelia Stevenson: And soon.

She nods towards Seth.

Cordelia Stevenson: But I’ll let you get ready for your match. Best believe I’ll be watching. Good luck against Evan, but just promise me one thing…

He glances at her direction now curious about a promise. His eyebrows are raised.

Seth Iser: A promise? Hm...what would you want me to promise?

Cordy motions towards the heating pad and the brace.

Cordelia Stevenson: That you won’t fall apart out there. I want you at 100%, or as close to it as possible when we make history.

And that’s when there’s an arrogant smirk creeping on Iser’s face when that happens.

Seth Iser: Bah...if anything teaching Envi what he needs to learn right now is a good way to make sure I’m staying sharp. He’s not where we’re at right now. I might have more matches behind me then ahead of me but don’t you worry...I’ll be at full strength to answer our question…

The smirk loses it’s arrogant tone as he glances at her direction while he starts to put the infamous knee brace on.

Seth Iser: Maybe I’ll turn the clock back a little...but we’ll cross that bridge when we get there. Just trust my maintenance. I’ve been wrestling on a bad wheel for nineteen years after all.

Cordelia simply smirks as she turns and leaves him to finish his preparations. The scene then cuts away.

[FGA Office]

NON-TITLE
(c) Mark Bisley vs. Kazu Hirano

Bisley and Hirano start things off with a lockup. Bisley ultimately wins the position battle as he muscles Hirano across the ring into the corner. Once instructed by the ref to break, both grapplers do so. But it’s by no means clean as Bisley catches him with a stinging knife edge chop. Two more chops follow suit before Hirano gets doubled over with a rolling solebutt. “Smart” Mark quickly takes advantage of Hirano’s positioning and delivers the Iko Uwais (cravat with repeated knees to the head)! Bisley then leads Hirano out of the corner before bringing him down with Greetings from the Twin Cities (hangman's neckbreaker over the knee) for a two count.

Hirano is then whipped off into the ropes. Bisley goes to catch him off the rebound with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker, but Hirano counters with a tilt-a-whirl headscissors. Bisley gets dropped to the mat with a pair of dropkicks. Bisley is once again knocked down after a pair of running lariats. Hirano the runs the leg of the ring before knocking Bisley down with Maxwell’s Silver Hammer (Polish Hammer)! He makes the cover, but he only gets a two count.

Hirano bring the action into the corner and catches Bisley with multiple knife edge chops of his own. Bisley answers by taking Hirano, tossing him into the corner and delivering a series of rapid fire elbow smashes. Hirano is then sent into the far corner with an irish whip. The 15 Champion charges in to attack when Hirano knocks him back with a back elbow. Bisley shakes off the blow before rushing back in. This time, Hirano turns him around with a boot to the face. While Bisley’s dazed, Hirano steps out to the apron and scales the turnbuckles. Hirano gets one foot on the top turnbuckle before turning to salute the crowd. The crowd chants back “KONICHIWA!” Hirano’s about to leap off for Hey Bulldog (flying bulldog) until Bisley runs backwards into the ropes. The crowd boos when Hirano slips and ends up crotched on the top turnbuckle. Bisley then turns and climbs up to the middle ropes. He grabs Hirano and tries for a superplex. Hirano blocks it. Bisley tries to muscle him up for another superplex. Again, it gets blocked. Bisley lets go, fires off another series of rapid-fire elbow smashes and tries for another superplex. The crowd gasps when Bisley’s got Hirano up. But Hirano’s able to kick his legs, causing Bisley to lower him back down onto the top turnbuckle. Bisley then lets go and throws out a punch. Hirano blocks and counters with an open palm strike. Bisley gets another punch blocked and countered with a palm strike. Hirano then pulls his arms back before swinging them forward. Bisley gets caught with a Bell Clap before falling to the mat. Hirano then jumps up, turns in mid air and lands back on the top turnbuckle before quickly flipping back and hitting a moonsault! ONE! TWO! KICKOUT!

Hirano takes Bisley, delivers an irish whip and follows him across the ring before connecting with a running lariat. Bisley gets whipped over into the opposite corner before getting caught with another running lariat. Hirano steps back to the center of the ring while Bisley slumps down in the corner. The Wanderer then rushes forward before squashing him with a cannonball senton. Hirano rolls away away from the corner and makes the cover. ONE! TWO! T-NO! Bisley gets his foot on the bottom rope.

Hirano take Bisley and goes to toss him to the outside when Bisley pivots and tosses him over the top rope. After Hirano lands safely on the apron, Bisley tries for a shoulder thrust through the ropes. But Hirano side steps. He goes to counter with a running knee lift when Bisley slips back inside and doubles him over with an elbow smash across the back of the head. Bisley then tries for the Ace Kick (triangle enzuigiri), but Hirano ducks. After Bisley scrambles back to his feet, Hirano goes for a shoulder thrust of his own. But Bisley sidesteps and counters with a kick right to the face. With Hirano doubled over, Bisley tries for a Slingshot DDT. But Hirano slips out of the way before flipping off the apron and knocking him down with a cannonball senton. Hirano then climbs back up to the apron before scaling the turnbuckles. Bisley eventually gets back to his feet. But he doesn’t remain standing for long as Hirano flips off and knocks him down with another moonsault! Bisley gets rolled back inside before the cover gets made. ONE! TWO! THR-NO! KICKOUT!

Bisley gets pulled into a standing headscissors to set up a Running Liger Bomb. As soon as Hirano lifts Bisley up onto his shoulders, Bisley counters with a flurry of right hands to the head. He then slips down in front of Hirano before ramming him back-first into the corner. From there, Bisley fires out the Minnesota Buzzsaw (repeated shoot kicks to a cornered opponent's chest) before whipping Hirano hard into the far corner. Hirano staggers out of the corner before Bisley chucks him down with an overhead belly to belly suplex. Bisley slides over for the cover. ONE! TWO! T-NO! KICKOUT!

Hirano is whipped into the ropes before getting taken down off the rebound with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. The Wanderer slowly turns over into the prone position before Bisley lands across his back with Corazón de Zorro (lionsault to a face-down opponent's back)! Bisley slowly pulls Hirano off the mat by the back of the tights before throwing him down with the Hirano-Killer Combo (two rolling German suplexes followed by a release Dragon suplex)! ONE! TWO! THR-NO! KICKOUT! Bisley then hoists Hirano up for Blind Destiny (Canadian backbreaker rack dropped into double knee gutbuster)! But Hirano’s able to slip down from behind, take control of Bisley’s back and knock him down with I Want To Hold Your Hand (Ripcord Lariat, but holding their hand instead of wrist)! Hirano hooks his arms around Bisley’s legs and starts to go for Dizzy Miss Lizzy (Giant Swing)! But after one rotation, Hirano lets go and drops down to a knee after it appears that his back gave out. Bisley returns to his feet and sees Hirano in prime position. So he darts over and throws out Lux Aeterna (Busaiku Knee to a kneeling opponent)! But he whiffs when Hirano rolls out of the way to the side. Bisley scrambles back to his feet and rushes over towards Hirano. But he ends up getting caught with a spinebuster. With Bisley splayed out on the mat, Hirano proceeds to run the ropes twice. When he returns, he gets the crowd to chant “MECCHA SUGOI” right before he drops the Meccha Sugoi Hiji (People’s Elbow) on Bisley! Hirano starts to circle Bisley while clapping. The crowd takes their cue from Hirano and join in with the clapping. The claps pick up in pace the closer Bisley gets back to a vertical base. Once the 15 Champ is finally back to his feet, Hirano spins him around, doubles him over with a boot to the gut and drops him with Strawberry Fields (Stunner) for the ONE, TWO, THREE!

Winner: Kazu Hirano (9:13)

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

We go Backstage in the locker room of AAA where we see Ashley Sands sitting on a bench as she watches her friend and frequent tag partner Ashley Marie Chase pace around the room. It is obvious that AMC is not in the right frame of mind as she seems twitchy as she paces around.

AMC: I committed the cardinal sin of wrestling. I allowed somebody to get into my head and that should never have happened.

AMC gives a creepy laugh.

AMC: You see we all know that one on one Markie Bisley can not beat me. We all know that he can’t even tie my shoes on that ring and we all know that he is my bitch but the last two times we faced I have been beaten not by Markie but by outside forces named Sadie Sanfran and her new pet Jaelynn. The first time was unforeseen because who knew that Jaelynn had the guts to get in my business

AMC punches a locker.

AMC: However this last time I was so certain they would try again that I let my guard down and got beat by Markie Mark. I let Jaelynn get in my head but that will not happen again oh no it won’t.

Sands gets up but we do not know if it was to comfort AMC or slap sense into her as AMC put her hand up pointing at Sands causing her to stop.

AMC: There will be a time and place for all those that got into my business to pay for their crimes. I promise you that.

Sands finally walks over and grabs AMC by the shoulders and shakes her.

AMC: You are right. We have more pressing matters to address tonight don’t we? Specifically those newly vacated Tag Team Titles. The titles that Lowri Moss gave up rather than defend, the titles that she says her and her partner defended against everybody. Everybody except ASHES 2 ASHES!!

AMC smirks.

AMC: You see while AAA are good they are not on the same level as Ashes 2 Ashes. No offense to our fallen comrade Antoinette but me and Sully were the best Gaijin tag team to ever set foot in a Japanese ring a few years ago. We were the tag team champions and whooped on everybody. Now if Ashes 2 Ashes had gotten a title shot then maybe those belts would not be vacated right now. So while I wish Lowri the best on her future endeavors to become the top singles champion in FG,A me and Sully will become the best tag team in FGA and if that means we need to go through any and all teams here then so f*cking be it!!!

Sands gives her friend a long look for a moment before turning her attention to the camera.

Ashley Sands: And I’m supposed to be the one with the crazy Irish temper. But you know my sista from another mista makes a good point in her own crazy way. We do wish Lowri well in whatever she decides to do from here on… as long it has nothing to do with the tag division. It was over five years ago that me and whats-his-name were FGA tag champs. Five years and I haven’t had so much as a sniff at those belts since. That ladies and gentlemen is a goddamn Greek tragedy. And you know, it’s about time I held one of those belts again.

Sands pauses as she looks at Chase and points a finger at her then herself.

Ashley Sands: We were untouchable in Japan back then and it’s time our American fans got to see us with gold in person. Pendragon had a good run for themselves but that time has passed now. The time of the Ashes is now. As if we didn’t already have enough incentive to put Sadie and Jaelynn into the ground for what they did to my sister-in-law, taking our place on top of the FGA tag division will put an exclamation point on it all.

AMC: Damn right it will!

We fade out with the camera focused on the two Ashleys making the sign of the “A” that represents A2A.

[FGA Office]

John Carmichael vs. Patrick Jones

Jones gains the advantage early on with a side headlock. After multiple forearms to the ribs, Carmichael is finally able to shove him off into the ropes. Jones comes off the rebound and tries for a running shoulder tackle, but Carmichael remains on his feet. Jones then hits another set of ropes, comes back and tries for another running shoulder block. Again, Carmichael remains on his feet. Jones is undeterred and hits another set of ropes. When he returns, Carmichael goes to counter with Life's A Bitch (pop-up sitdown powerbomb)! But Jones counters with a dropkick in mid air! Carmichael returns to his feet before getting thrown down with a deep arm drag. Two more deep arm drags bring Carmichael back to the mat before Jones transitions into an armbar. Carmichael turns down the opportunity to quit and battles back to his feet. He then uses his free hand to move Jones into the near ropes before shoving him off into the far ropes. As soon as Jones hits the ropes, he leaps across the ring and knocks Carmichael down with a flying forearm! Jones goes over to make the cover, but Carmichael rolls to the outside to retreat.

Carmichael tries to take a breather on the outside. But as soon as he turns around, Jones leaps over the top rope and tackles him down with a vaulting body press! Carmichael is then rolled back inside before Jones climbs up to the apron. Jones then scales to the top. But before he can leap off, Carmichael again rolls across the ring and to the outside. Jones then hops down to the apron before hopping down to the floor. He then runs down ringside to attack. But it’s all a ploy as Carmichael blows him up with a lariat as soon as he rounds the ring post! Carmichael puts the boots to Jones before yanking him back to his feet. The Former Johnny Karma buries two punches to the gut before knocking him down with a European Uppercut. The ref continues to complain to him to bring the action back inside. So Carmichael obliges by rolling back inside… only to roll back out to restart the count.

Carmichael continues his assault with a jumping knee drop. Jones gets pulled back to his feet and gets doubled over with a knee strike before getting thrown down with a double underhook suplex. Carmichael throws him down with another double underhook suplex for good measure. He then takes Jones and finally rolls him back inside… only to drag him back out to restart the count! Carmichael then places Jones in a front facelock before planting him with the One Way Trip (Snap DDT)! Jones is then rolled back inside before Carmichael rolls himself back in for the cover. ONE! TWO! Jones gets his foot on the bottom rope. Carmichael then drags Jones away from the ropes and makes another cover, but Jones gets his right shoulder up.

Carmichael snatches Jones’ right wrist and yanks him back to his feet. He then delivers an arm wrench followed by a short-arm shoulder block. Carmichael nails Jones with four more short-arm shoulder blocks before bringing him down with a shoulder breaker. He then hammerlocks Jones’ arm, runs and throws him shoulder-first into the ring post! Jones gets pulled out of the corner by the back of the tights before Carmichael chucks him over his head with a half nelson suplex. Carmichael makes the cover. ONE! TWO! T-NO! KICKOUT.

Carmichael continues to pour on the offense. He lifts Jones up across his shoulders before bringing him down with a fireman’s career into a backbreaker. Jones slowly sits back up and holds his lower back before Carmichael leaps off the middle ropes and flattens him with a diving elbow bat to the shoulder. Jones is then brought down with the Fresh Meadow (swinging rib breaker) before Carmichael sits him up, hits the ropes and comes off the rebound with a dropkick to the shoulder. Carmichael makes the cover, but he only gets two. He then throws Jones down with a scoop slam before climbing up to the middle ropes. He goes for a diving knee drop and misses when Jones rolls out of the way! Once both grapplers return to their feet, Jons fires off knife edge chops with his left arm. He then sets up for an irish whip, only for Carmichael to reverse with another arm wrench into a short-arm shoulder block. Jones remains doubled over while Carmichael hits the ropes. When Carmichael returns, Jones brings him down with a belly to belly suplex! Jones pulls Carmichael back up before delivering a vertical suplex! Jones hits another vertical suplex before bringing Carmichael down with a half nelson suplex of his own! ONE! TWO! KICKOUT!

Jones sets up for a gutwrench suplex. But Carmichael fights out of it. He then scoops Jones up for another shoulderbreaker. This time, Jones slips down from behind and connects with a spinning back kick to the back of the head. Carmichael staggers forward before finding his foot. He tries to shake out the cobwebs. As soon as he turns around, Jones knocks him down with an enzuigiri!ONE! TWO! KICKOUT!

Jones takes Carmichael and plants him with a DDT before stepping out to the apron. He scales to the top, leaps off and connects with a diving elbow drop with his left arm! Jones heads into the corner and sets up for Zoned Out (superkick). Once Carmichael finally gets back to his feet, Jones heads out of the corner and throws out the superkick. But Carmichael ducks, grabs Jones from behind and brings him down with the Tahara (full nelson slam over the knee)! He then takes Jones, runs and tosses him through the ropes and to the apron. Carmichael reaches through the ropes and pulls Jones into position across the middle ropes before bringing him down with the Khartbreyk (rope hung swinging neckbreaker). The boos continue as Carmichael takes control of Jones back before dropping him with No Regrets (wristlock transitioned into a Stunner) for the ONE! TWO! THREE!

Winner: John Carmichael (11:20)

POST-MATCH

After a moment Carmichael looks over to the ref and tells him to let go of his raised arm, and once the referee lets go he walks over to where Jones is laid out on the mat and looks down at him for a moment as if appears something is on Carmichael’s mind

Kris Cruise: John Carmichael was able to put that loss to Izzy Anders behind him and bounce back with a win over Patrick Jones.

Stephy Auger: Izzy should be ashamed of what she did to him.

Kris Cruise: What? Carmichael is the one that still had the issue. He was the one that wanted to go after Izzy again and renew that rivalry. Carmichael started it, but Izzy made sure to finish it inside the Steel Cage.

Turning on his heels, Carmichael rolls out of the ring and approaches the announce desk where he grabs one of the bottles of water and takes a long swig out of it, and having quenched his thirst he turns towards the timekeeper’s chair and eyeballs J.A. Aldridge for just a second before pointing at a spot next to the chair, ordering Aldridge out of his seat, and once Aldridge is out of his seat Carmichael grabs it and slides it into the ring before turning around and grabbing his microphone

Kris Cruise: Carmichael's got the mic!

Stephy Auger: I wonder who's drawn his ire this time.

Picking up the chair, Carmichael looks at Jones on the mat - but instead he simply sets up the chair in the ring and takes a seat, aiming a glare at Jones telling him that it might be a good idea to get out of the ring right now

After Jones rolls out of the ring and begins to walk back to the locker room, Carmichael taps the microphone to make sure that it’s on, and satisfied that it is he leans forward and begins

John Carmichael: There’s no doubt that there are many of you watching who thought that your beloved Izzy Anders had taught me a lesson, and there is no doubt that some of you are even hoping that she has shut me up. Well let me make one thing abundantly clear to all of you…

Sitting up in the chair, Carmichael holds out his arms to demonstrate that he’s still here, before leaning forward once more

John Carmichael: I will not be going anywhere, so you had best get used to listening to what you don’t want to hear because I proved all along that your “hero” is nothing but a vicious, self-serving egotist that you have been enabling for far too long. And you know what’s funny? You used to boo her for everything she did at All Star Showdown, but now you praise her to the rafters for doing the exact same thing because you are gutless cowards who cannot accept that you are being told how to think. And that’s what gets you, isn’t it? The fact that if I carved open her forehead with a spike you would think it was the most heinous thing imaginable, if I hit her with a flurry of moves used by opponents who had made her life a misery you would think it was disgusting and manipulative, and if she was unable to see what was coming because the blood was in her eyes you would have been silent out of concern. But no, you have to keep being the problem, and I have to continue looking for the solution.

Leaning back again, Carmichael considers his next move, and after a moment there’s a flicker on his face that makes it clear that he’s thought of one

John Carmichael: So let's talk about tonight’s main event for a moment. Tonight’s main event sees Seth Iser…

The second Carmichael says Iser’s name he lowers the mic and looks out into the sparse crowd, knowing they’ll react with boos at the mere mention of his name, and the look he gives them when they do just that is one of amused indifference

John Carmichael: …not defending the title he currently holds, but he will be competing in a non-title match against Evan…

Sensing the rising anticipation in the crowd, Carmichael lowers the mic and lets the anticipation percolate out of the air into nothingness

John Carmichael: Evan…

Once again he lowers the mic before finishing the name of Iser’s opponent this evening, and once again he lets the electricity rising turn into dead air

John Carmichael: Evan…

And for a third time he lowers the mic, letting the anticipation grow and collapse like a conductor during a symphony

John Carmichael: Doctor Pavlov, could you please come and collect your dog? The thought of me saying “Evan Envi” is causing it to drool on my carpet again.

The crowd boos Carmichael, which causes him to lower the microphone and look at them like he;s standing in front of an amoretz convention

John Carmichael: And let’s talk about that, shall we? Let’s talk about how you’ve somehow convinced yourselves that Evan Envi is a “Good Guy” because he calls himself that. Was he a “Good Guy” when he was attacking Molly Reid because he was convinced she was at fault for all his failings? Was he a “Good Guy” when he was siccing NEON on anyone he felt was getting in his way? And let;’s not forget, because I certainly have not, was he a “Good Guy” when he stole the title from me and then kicked down the ladder behind him so that half of this company’s roster could not challenge him for that same title? That’s your idol, ladies and gentlemen, and you’ve hitched your wagon to the wrong golden calf.

Cocking his head to one side, Carmichael looks dead down the camera

John Carmichael: And this is who is being given an opportunity to face Seth Iser this evening, which you and I know is shorthand for saying that the powers that be are thinking of giving Evan Envi their support and are letting him know that if he wins this evening he’s right back in the title hunt.

With a knowing smirk, Carmichael lets the crowd slowly cotton on to what he;s implying, and the slowly rising jeers lets him know he;s pressed the right button

John Carmichael: Oh I’m sorry, did you think I was interested in who you believe should be champion regardless of who they are or what they did? Then I guess you haven’t been listening, and since there’s nobody who can stop me I guess I shall have to go over this from the beginning.

With a brief laugh, Carmichael continues

John Carmichael: All I am doing is letting the balance of nature take its course. If he thinks it’s okay to steal from me and go to whatever lengths it takes to get away with it, I think that it’s more than fair to let Evan Envi know just what it is like to be on the…

“Helter Skelter” blasts across the PA system, interrupting Carmichael’s statement. The sound brings many in the audience to their feet, though for seconds there is no movement at the top of the ramp.

Kris Cruise: Well, I think the Chief might’ve finally heard just about enough!

Inside the ring Carmichael wearily gets up from his seat, the look on his face making it obvious that he isn’t in the mood for the interruption but he has to slap a frown on his face and go through the motions since that’s where we are.

Stephy Auger: Doubt it. He already got cold feet. He’s afraid of coming out here and facing the truth.

The raucous audience only grows louder, however, as Evan Envi saunters onto the stage, arms lowered to his sides, gaze initially downcast. He’s already dressed to compete, though clad in a plain, black shirt bearing no markings or insignia. Dutifully, the Chief makes his way down the ramp, finally raising his eyes to meet Carmichael’s gaze once he reaches the bottom. Envi takes a breath and turns, circumnavigating the ring to collect a microphone from the timekeeper’s table. Evan doesn’t quite wait for the sounds of the Beatles to fade before he begins to speak.

Evan Envi: I’m--

Envi begins to start a war or words. But before he can get his response out, Carmichael snatches the mic out of his hand and tosses it out of the ring! The crowd erupts with boos over Carmichael's complete lack of respect towards the Chief. The crowd then starts to buzz with anticipation as Envi and Carmichael continue to stand face to face. The tension in the air is thick between these two rivals. Everyone waits with bated breath to see who makes a move first. It's Carmichael! But instead of striking Envi with a punch, he simply brushes past Envi, exits the ramp and makes his way up the ramp, leaving Envi cautious and confused...

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

Backstage Area

The camera fades into Amanda Johnson standing in the backstage area with a microphone in hand.

Amanda Johnson: Ladies and gentleman, I am currently waiting for my guest…

Before Amanda can finish her sentence, we see Ace Voltage bolt into the scene, in his ring gear and sweating a little bit.

Ace Voltage: I’m here! Amanda, Honey! Great to see ya!

Ace flashes a smile to Amanda as she looks at him in disgust.

Ace Voltage: I know, I know. A little sweaty, I just finished my last training for my Pride Rules match tonight.

Amanda Johnson: Training?

Ace Voltage: Yes training! I’m not taking this Pride Rules stuff lightly. I’ve been training twice a day for the last week.

Amanda Johnson: Will it affect you tonight?

Ace Voltage: Of course not! My stamina is the best it has ever been! I am ready to make a statement tonight. 

Amanda Johnson: So I am guessing you’ve done your homework on Max Powers and the Pride Rules?

Ace Voltage: Do you take me as an idiot? Do you think I am the BEST Mid-Atlantic Legacy champion ever by a fluke?

Amanda goes to respond by Ace cuts her off.

Ace Voltage: You seem surprised by my determination. Well, babe. I know Tyler Storm is no joke. I know Pride Rules is legit. And I know I am fully ready to defeat Max Powers tonight. Let’s call it a warmup.

Amanda Johnson: With your training, do you think you’ll have to change your wrestling style at all?

Ace Voltage: Now I appreciate the question. I really do. Trying to get some scouting in for the champ, huh? Not going to happen! You will see how I wrestle when everyone else will. Later tonight against Max Powers.

Amanda Johnson: Well, is there anything you’re willing to tell me about your preparation for tonight’s match?

Ace Voltage: Nope! All you need to know and all Max Powers needs to know is that he stands no chance tonight! And I hope Tyler Storm is watching. I mean if he was a smart champion he would be watching me tonight. But, is he really that good of a champion? Probably not. Once I defeat Powers and go on to face Tyler…

Ace start backing away out of the camera shot.

Ace Voltage: He won’t be calling himself a champion anymore.

The camera shoots over to Ace as we see him walk away, wiping the sweat off of his forehead. The camera fades to black.

[FGA Office]

Perched at the edge of her chaise lounge with a tumbler of something dark and very bad for you in her hand, Erin Mariani wears a facial expression that sits uncomfortably between amused and disgusted which is not helped by her running her tongue against her upper row of teeth, but once she does that her expression changes to that of a particularly malicious smirk

Erin Mariani: So a little bird tells me that a cat has been thrown among the pigeons, namely how there is now a vacancy at the heart of a certain division of this company, a certain division which has the two of us very interested.

Pausing to take a long sip out of her tumbler, Mariani savors the sweet taste and lets out a little sigh of self-satisfaction, which causes her smirk to spread that little bit further across her face

Erin Mariani: Yet the reason why is what intrigues us, for no matter how much they try and claim otherwise, the sole reason for the titles becoming available is because one of them could not handle the pressure and ran away. As much as they try and pretend otherwise, this is what happened, and from a personal standpoint I can say that it is a shame that this is how their reign ended.

Sauntering into frame, Sara Mason wears a very different facial expression – that of a wolf that’s gone several days without eating, and now its every move is dictated by a carnivorous fury

Sara Mason: Yeah, because they managed to walk away.

Erin Mariani: As much as they want to twist the narrative, to try and claim that the plan was always for one of them to retire at the end of the year, there is no denying one simple truth: it is not the end of the year. And even if we are to believe their story – and a story is all that it is – then it becomes so very, very clear that they were always looking to cut and run. After all, what kind of person calls themselves a champion yet is planning to walk away no matter what?

Raising an accusatory finger towards the heavens, it appears that Mariani is preparing to make a cutting remark – yet instead she glances towards Mason, knowing that her partner has something she wants to say

Sara Mason: Was the pressure a little too much for your partner, Lowri? You said that he was looking for an exit all along, yet even after he told you his plan to run away before he had to be carried away he realized that it was a matter of time before his dream of walking away a champion would not come to pass, so he left you carrying the can and having to make up some barely plausible version of events?

The derisive snort in her laugh indicates that Mason is not impressed

Sara Mason: Or maybe it occurred to you there was one thing you never wanted to admit: that you have never, ever defeated the two of us? You can claim that you defended those titles against us, but at no point did you defeat us to win the titles, at no point did you defeat us to retain the titles, all you have ever managed to do is try to avoid us – and you can’t avoid us forever, because at some point you would have to admit that the two of you owed us what we’re due.

Pausing for half a second, Mason says nothing as her eyes appear to darken while her facial expression remains motionless

Sara Mason: All your partner did was take out the middleman, because when you finally gave us what we want he would have retired by the end of the year, but it would not have been his choice.

Erin Mariani: Which begs one single question: what is the plan to resolve this issue? For as much as I relish the idea of Lowri Moss being thrown into the ring with just one of us to learn her place is so firmly under our heels, only an idiot would believe such a thing would ever be sanctioned – and only an idiot would consider that the precious trinket that is Lowri Moss would ever be placed in such a situation. Yet that leaves somebody in a bind, as no doubt there are numerous pairings all telling anyone who will listen whatever meager achievements they have in order to say that they deserve consideration for the now-vacant titles.

In the background Mason looks at the camera as if to say she can see the irony in what Mariani is saying, but it isn’t a good idea if anyone were to suggest this

Erin Mariani: My word of advice to every single pairing is to consider your words very carefully, because while I am sure you have convinced yourselves that you have reason to be considered, what you should be asking is whether you are willing to suffer.

Letting out a dark chuckle, Mariani casts a glance in Mason’s direction – but not to give her partner the floor, but to check if her partner is looking ready to commit to the brutality that she is envisioning, and after a second of reading Mason’s body language she smiles as she turns her attention back to the camera

Erin Mariani: Make no mistake, if you are willing to put yourselves in our path, you will suffer the most exquisite agonies, pain and torment that you did not think possible, because the only way to make sure that you will learn is to give you a reason to never, ever make the same mistake twice. Punishment, torment, both physical and mental shall be meted out to anyone who wishes to try their luck, because we are coming for what we are owed and if anyone dares stand in our way they will not only bear the consequences for themselves but they will serve as a warning for anyone else so arrogant to think that they can take what is ours.

Sara Mason: And while you will dread what we have in mind, I hate to tell you but we’re going to enjoy every second of it.

Erin Mariani: So the clock is now ticking, and we are awaiting a satisfactory resolution to this issue, because the longer we are kept waiting for a decision the more tempting it is to make the decision in their stead. So, please, your answer. Give it to us. Or else.

[FGA Office]

Ashley Sands & Ashley Marie Chase vs. The Saturnian Connection

The match gets underway with both teams shaking hands. After some last second talks, Ashley Marie Chase and Jillian Clay start things off for their respective teams. AMC gets the best of Clay with a side headlock followed by a side headlock takedown. Clay is able to reverse into a grounded headscissors. But she doesn't stay in control for long as AMC escapes with a kip up before hitting the ropes. Clay hits a kip up of her own and follows up with a leapfrog when AMC rebounds off the ropes. But instead of continuing to run the ropes, she slams on the brakes right behind Clay. Once Clay lands on her feet, she turns around and gets caught with repeated chest kicks. AMC follows up with a clothesline, knocking AMC down to the mat. Clay is then pulled up before being whipped into the corner. AMC rushes in and connects with a running clothesline. She then brings Clay out of the corner and tries for another irish whip. Clay quickly reverses, sending her into the far corner. Clay sets up for a back body drop. But she does so too early. AMC spots it a mile away and counters with a kick to the face. After Clay gets knocked upright before getting knocked down with a dropkick for a two count.

AMC wrenches the arm before dragging her over into the Ashes 2 Ashes corner before tagging in Ashley Sands. Sands gets in and delivers a clubbing strike across Clay’s outstretched arm before executing an arm wrench. AMC gets tagged back in before delivering a double ax handle smash across the arm. She wrenches Clay’s arm once more before tagging Sands back in. Sands then picks up where AMC left off with another arm wrench. Clay finds herself on the receiving end of yet another arm wrench. She then rolls forward, leans back, kips up, spins in place and reverses into an arm wrench of her own. She then runs across the ring before bringing Sands down with a running somersault arm wringer. She then makes the tag to Nando Fresno. The Alien Hunter gets in and helps Clay deliver a double arm wringer before bringing Sands down with a double wrist lock back suplex. Fresno makes the cover, but he only gets a two count.

Fresno moves AMC up against the ropes and unleashes a series of jabs to the head and midsection. He follows up with a European Uppercut before delivering an irish whip. AMC comes off the rebound before getting knocked down with a dropsault. Fresno lands on his feet and pulls AMC up to a seated position before hitting the ropes. The Alien Hunter picks up speed as he returns before flattening AMC with a Sliding Knee Strike for another two count.

The tag gets made back to Clay. The Saturnian Connection pick up AMC back to the center of the ring. Clay continues to keep a hold of AMC’s wrist. She motions for a short-arm lariat, then ducks, allowing Fresno to knock AMC own with a Discus Elbow. With AMC splayed out on the mat, Clay runs towards the side of the ring, hops onto the middle ropes, flips back and hits a Lionsault for a two count. Clay pulls AMC back up before bringing her down with a running somersault arm wringer. She then scales the turnbuckles and flips off for a corkscrew moonsault. AMC rolls to safety. But Clay’s able to land on her feet. Clay then stumbles back before finding her footing. She then charges in to attack when AMC counters with a Samoan Drop for a two count. She then takes Clay, runs over into the Ashes 2 Ashes corner and slams her face-first into the top turnbuckle. Sands gets tagged back in before delivering multiple shoulder thrust to the midsection. After tagging AMC back in, Ashes 2 Ashes hook both of Clay’s arms before launching her out of the corner with a double hip toss. Sands rushes back over to the corner before slingshotting out to the apron. After AMC makes the tag, she runs across the ring, runs up to the turnbuckle, flips off and connects with a moonsault. She then rolls off Clay as Sands hits the ropes, comes back and delivers the Wind Whisper (Rolling Senton)! She turns over for the cover. ONE! TWO! KICKOUT!

Sand stakes Clay and brings her down with a side russian leg sweep. She makes the cover, but only gets a two count. Sands then pulls her back up before driving her down face-first with a reverse side russian leg sweep. Sands pulls her over for the cover, but Fresno is there to break up the pin at two. Sands then sends Clay for the ride before knocking her off her feet with a spinning heel kick. Clay gets dragged into position before Sands heads into the corner. She scales to the top, flips off and gets the moonsault countered when Clay raises her knees. Sands bounces off the knees before rolling across the ring. Both grapplers are positioned nowhere near their respective corners on the mat. After checking on both grapplers, the official starts his count. By the time the ref’s count reaches five, Sands is still curled up on the mat. Meanwhile, Clay is making progress as she continues to drag herself across the mat. She looks over and sees Fresno within diving range. She leaps over for the tag. But Fresno gets yanked off the apron at the last second! Fresno lands on his feet, turns and nearly gets his head knocked off with a Kick of Doom (superkick) from AMC! The former 15 Champion runs back around the ringside area before leaping up into the Ashes 2 Ashes corner. Back inside, Clay pulls herself up using the ropes. She goes over and pulls Sands back to her feet before getting knocked back with multiple right hands. Sands takes Clay, whips her into the ropes and goes to catch her off the rebound with a back body drop. But Clay lands on her feet. Sands then turns around and gets caught with three savate kicks; the last of which knocks her off her feet. She then darts across the ring and knocks AMC off the apron with a running forearm smash. Clay turns, runs back across the ring and sends Sands through the ropes and to the apron with a running hurricanrana. Sands pulls herself up using the ropes before getting brought back inside with a slingshot cutter! She makes the cover. ONE! TWO! T-NO! KICKOUT!

Clay takes Sands and brings her down with not one, not two but three rolling Northern Lights Suplexes! She keeps the bridge held for the cover. OEN! TWO! THR-NO! AMC flips off the top rope and breaks up the pin with a moonsault! AMC gets back to her feet before Fresno grabs her from behind, runs and chucks her over the top and to the floor. The Alien Hunter gets back in his corner and starts calling for the tag. Back inside, Clay starts to drag herself over towards her corner. But Sands grabs onto her leg. After dragging Clay back towards her, she pulls Clay up from behind. She tries for a German Suplex, but Clay counters with a back elbow to the face. She then performs a standing switch, hops onto Sands’ shoulders, executes a victory roll into a double foot stomp before diving over and tagging Fresno back in! Fresno springboards to the top, flips off and crashes across Sands with a corkscrew moonsault of his own! ONE! TWO! THR-NO! Sands gets the shoulder up.

Fresno takes Sands, lifts her up and brings her down with a running back suplex. He makes the cover. ONE! TWO! THR-NO! Sands gets the shoulder up. Fresno takes Sands and whips her into the corner. He then runs, leaps over and hits a Stinger Splash! Sands is then whipped into the far corner before Fresno runs across the ring, leaps and hits a second Stinger Splash! Sands is then hoisted up onto the top turnbuckle before Fresno climbs up and brings her down with a super hurricanrana! He makes the cover. ONE! TWO! THRE-NO! Sands gets her shoulder up.

Fresno delivers an irish whip before setting up for a back body drop. When Sands hits the ropes, AMC makes the blind tag. Sands then comes back and knocks Fresno upright with a kick to the face. She then turns and heads back into the ropes. When Sands returns, Fresno throws her down with a Spanish Fly! He makes the cover, but the ref won’t count. Fresno continues to slap the mat, but the ref still won’t count. The ref tells him that Sands is no longer the legal member of her team. Before Fresno can process the information, AMC leaps into the air and nails him with the Full Facial (Foot Stomp)! AMC then rolls Fresno off Sands and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
Clay rolls back inside…
.
TWO!
.
Clay runs before diving across the ring.
.
THREE!

Clay lands on AMC, but it’s just a split second too late!

Winners: Ashes 2 Ashes (13:30)

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

The lovely Amanda Johnson is standing by backstage in one of the designated interview spots.

Amanda Johnson: Joining me right now is TJ Techniques. TJ...

TJ Techniques is greeting with cheers when he walks into the camera shot.

TJ Techniques: What's good, Amanda?

Amanda Johnson: Last week, you and Cassius were victorious in your first outing as a tag team. But things didn't go so smooth, now did they?

TJ lets out a sigh. The looks on his face says it all. "Aw, here we go again".

TJ Techniques: Come on, Amanda...

Amanda Johnson: What? I'm simply asking a question, TJ. I interviewed you and Cassius before your match against The Saturnian Connection. What I heard from Cassius was how this was going to be a privilege for you to team with him. According to Cassius, you were going to get the benefit from his experience, skill and... what was that last word?

TJ rolls his eyes before finally relenting and finishing her though.

TJ Techniques: ...Amazingosity.

Amanda Johnson: Yes, that's right, TJ, the Amazingosity of being around him. Let's not forget the "Save Me, Cassius!" part.

TJ raises his hand to cut Amanda off.

TJ Techniques: Amanda, is there a point to all of this?

Amanda Johnson: The point of this is that I warned you ahead of time that this may not be the brightest idea. Do you remember what happened during your tag match with him? He was hogging the limelight out there and turned away your pleas for a tag until it was almost too late. If it wasn't for him coming to his senses and pretty much the very last possible moment, you two would have lost your first match before you guys could even build any momentum.

TJ raises his point finger, indicating that he's ready to make a counter point.

TJ Techniques: But we didn't lose, now did we?

Amanda goes to respond, but she can't. She simply shakes her head, agreeing with TJ that they in fact didn't lose the match.

Amanda Johnson: Can I ask you something?

TJ Techniques: Anything.

Amanda Johnson: Why, after everything you two have been through, why would you want to team up with a guy like him?

TJ Techniques: A guy like him, huh?

Amanda Johnson: For as talented as Cassius is, he's equally as arrogant if not more so.

TJ can't help but to let out a chuckle. He goes to respond...

TJ Techniques: Let me explain to you why I want to team with Cassius. When I came to this company, I had no issue with Cassius. My beef was with one man and one man only and I sent his ass flying out of that Gold Rush Rumble with the quickness. But he wasn't the only man that I tossed from that Rumble? Nah, Cassius got got and that's where the problem between he and I started. Listen, I heard all the name calling. I heard all the lies he put on my name. But through it all, I still had resect for him. Guys like him paved the way for people like me to come out here, do my thing and be myself. It took a couple of tries. Three, as a matter of fact. But on that third try, he finally shook my hand. He shook this hand and showed that he respected me as a man and as a competitor.

TJ continues.

TJ Techniques: Going forward after that, I would have loved to have done my thing on the solo tip.

Out of nowhere, TJ lifts up the Liberty Pro Freedom Championship and slings it across his shoulder. What? Mighty Sparrow isn't the only one that can stunt, you know.

TJ Techniques: Clearly I know how to get the job done. But what would really make waves would be being the team that took down Pendragon. Me and Lowri crossed paths before and I got her. Neal and Cassius faced off in the Finals of the last Rey Del Aire. Cassius got him. Now 2019 and 2018 were a long time ago. Lowri and Neal have improved themselves by leaps and bounds since those matches, right? But guess what? So have we. My thought process was that if you took me and Cassius and you paired us up in the ring with Pendragon, man. That's what you call "magic happening". That's something that could have gone down in history. Me and Cassius, being the team to dethrone Pendragon? That would have put us down in history. Unfortunately, Neal or Gareth or whatever he's calling himself decided that wrestling wasn't for him no more. And Lowri can't defend those belts by herself. So she did what she had to do and I respect her for that. But even though there's no more Pendragon, I still got my eye on those belts.

Amanda Johnson: Which I understand. I even think I get where you're coming from when you talked about having respect for Cassius. But you have to admit that there were better choices for tag team partners. I mean, Mighty Sparrow was right there.

TJ Techniques: Sparrow was right there. But I told you last time that Sparrow just won the Mid-Atlantic Legacy title and I'm not trying to disrupt what he's doing. Besides, me and him linking up would be easy. We would handle that. This thing between me and Cassius. It's not easy. It's gonna be hard. It's gonna take time and effort. But it's also gonna be all worth it in the end when we're standing there with those World Tag Team titles. Those belts don't have a home now due to Lowri vacating the belts. Cassius isn't here right now, but I'm sure he would agree that they would look damn good around our waists. You know, brown and gold look good together.

Amanda Johnson: I'm well aware.

TJ Techniques: Hey now!

Amanda Johnson: You mentioned that this team between you and Cassius wasn't going to be easy. It's interesting that you mention that because it doesn't be any easier for you tonight as the two of you are taking on Silk & Cyanide.

TJ Techniques: Yeah, yeah, yeah. Silk & Cyanide. Those are two freaky S &M chicks. Right, right. I know how they get down. They can get a lil rough. You are exactly right. The road gets no easier. The Saturnian Connection were as good as advertised. They had already had a win over Cassius in a tag match before. Hell, even Nando Fresno got a W over Seth Iser and how many people over the past two years can say that they did that? So I had nothing but respect for them. I knew they were going be tough but at the end of the day, me and Cassius made it happen. For as tough as Sat Con are, Silk & Cyanide are gonna be even tougher. Think about it. Silk & Cyanide are one of the few teams that can say that they've beaten Pendragon over the past couple of years. They're two-time United States Tag Team Champs. That right there tells you that they know how to get the job done. Erin and Sara, they're about they business. But they're also about respect. That's where this whole beef between them and Pendragon and the Hellcats started. Silk & Cyanide felt some type of way about the DDT3 winners passing over them. Silk & Cyanide felt some type of way about never being considered the best tag team in FGA. It was always The Chaotics or Pendragon or even Fujiko and Izzy being rated higher than them. Silk & Cyanide have felt some type of way about never taking home those Tag Team of the Year honors. With Pendragon finally out of the picture and with them Tag Titles vacant, Sara and Erin think that this division is ripe for the picking. They think that this is finally the time to establish themselves as "That Team". But guess what, Amanda? They're wrong. Dead wrong. 'Cause right now, you're looking at one half of the team that is going to the top of this here wide open tag team division. When the other half joins me out there, Silk & Cyanide are gonna find out first hand that The Funky Technician and The Funky Dragon didn't come here to play. We didn't come here to sing, dance and make jokes. What we came to do, Amanda, is make this here tag team division ours. Last week, we beat a good team. A damn good team. Tonight, we face an even tougher test. We're going into the ring against two ladies that are battled tested. Championship tested. But guess what? Me? I know a lil something about being championship tested. I've got two tag titles belts at the crib to do it. Oh, and Cassius? Hmm, let's see. 2016 Passion of the Juniors Cup winner. 2017 Iron King Winner. 2018 Rey del Aire winner. 2019 King of Christmas winner and the only reason he didn't win anything in 2020 was because of a once-in-a-generation Global Pandemic! So yeah, I'd say Cassius knows a lil something something about winning big, too. I know you're still skeptical about this team, Amanda. I bet Silk & Cyanide are banking on this team blowing up. But the only thing that's gonna blow up around here is their plans to become the new champs, 'cause it's gonna blow up right in their faces. Now peep that.