10 Year Anniversary Show (12.30.21)

[FGA Office]

[FGA Office]

The soulful wailings of Silk Sonic greet us as “Put On A Smile” begins to play. An overhead shot of the Undisputed Championship is shown, kicking off the montage. It is a shot of it in its display case the night it was presented to Cordelia Stevenson after she unified the belts. The picture slowly shatters into a million shards and disperses as the image is then replaced by a still of the former Undisputed Champion Cordelia Stevenson kneeling in the middle of the ring and looking at the title after a hard fought match.

I could pretend when I'm out with my friends
I ain't thinkin' about you
I could pretend like I ain't in my feelings
But that ain't true, nah (nah)

The montage continues, taking us on an emotional and memory filled ride of Cordelia’s time as Champion, starting back on the night she captured the International Heavyweight Championship’ the first part of her Holy Trinity. A watermarked image of the Undisputed Championship sits faintly in the background, incrementally growing smaller and smaller with each passing second.

When I called you out your name
That was my ego, my pride and pain
I should be a movie star
The way I play the part
Like everything's okay

Several images of Cordelia in the ring flash across the screen in rapid succession; eventually leading to a video clip of her epic showdown with Seth Iser in the Unification match at 2021: A New Odyssey; the crowning moment where she unified the FGA World Championship and the International Heavyweight Championship.

Oh, now I try to be the life of the party
All night, buying shots for everybody
But it's all just an act (yeah)
And I can't have you back (yeah)
Without you runnin', going crazy

An array of photos appear on our screen with polaroid framings; perfect snapshots in time showcasing Cordelia as champion. Action shots, candid photos, in the ring and out, in each picture, Cordelia has the Undisputed Championship draped over her shoulder; it’s almost as if it had grown to be an extension of her.

Tryna put on a smile (put on a smile)
Tryna fight these tears from cryin'
But Lord knows I'm dyin', dyin'
Tryna put on a smile, smile (put on a smile)

The myriad of photos disperse, seemingly shattered by the next clip that cues up. Cordelia is seen shaking her head no, a look of absolute fear on her face as Lowri takes her down with a bridging Tiger Suplex. Lowri then transitions into the Severn Bridge. Coincidently, the watermark of the Undisputed Championship grows lighter and lighter the harder Cordelia fights the submission, and then ultimately disappears completely the moment Cordelia submits.

Ooh, out here smilin' like a fool
When the only thing worth smilin' for
Baby girl, the only thing worth smilin' for was…

The clip stops on a still of Lowri being handed the new title, before fading away to the final shots of our montage. Cordelia Stevenson sits on a locker room bench with a towel draped over her head. That shot then cuts to an older picture of Cordelia holding the Undisputed Championship, cradling it with care and looking at it lovingly.

You, you, you

You, you, you, you, you

You

[FGA Office]

Boardwalk Hall
Atlantic City, NJ

“Loner Boogie” by Boy Azooga plays over the PA system, instantly creating a buzz amongst those present inside Boardwalk Hall, and once the song's intro finishes, Lowri Moss walks out through the curtains, which only causes the cheers to increase in volume. With her newly won title around her waist, and a broad smile on her face, she stands on the stage, taking a moment to survey the crowd, reveling in the reception.

J.A. Aldridge: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome… THE NEEEWWWWWWWWWWW FGA UNDISPUTED CHAMPION… LOWRI MOSS!

She makes her way along the ramp, towards the ring, and as she does so, she makes an effort to slap the hands of as many as possible of the fans that reach out to her.

Kris Cruise: At All-Star Showdown X, in the main event of Night Two, Lowri Moss did it! After the heartbreaking loss that she suffered twelve months ago, at All-Star Showdown IX, this year she would not be denied. Cordelia Stevenson again threw everything that she had at Lowri, but this time it wasn’t enough for Cordy, this time Lowri was able to overcome all of it, and she was able to accomplish her dream of becoming the new FGA Undisputed Champion.

Stephy Auger: You failed to mention, Cruise, that Cordy went into that match having already wrestled and beaten Izzy Anders the night before. Had Lowri had to face a fresh Cordy, Cordy would still be the champion right now.

Kris Cruise: You might believe that Stephy, and I daresay so might Cordy, but I’m sure that Lowri would argue otherwise.

After arriving at ringside, Lowri goes to climb the steps, just as she usually would, but then she pauses. She glances to her right, then to her left, before hopping off the steps and heading around the side of the ring, continuing to slap hands with the fans in the front row, occasionally stopping to oblige when someone asks if they can have a selfie with the new champion.

Stephy Auger: Is she going to spend all night playing up to these idiots? Doesn’t she know that we have a packed card to get through? This isn’t the Lowri Moss show, you know!

Kris Cruise: After everything that she went through during the past year, Stephy, on her path to becoming champion, losing at All-Star Showdown IX and having to climb back up the mountain, winning the Gold Rush Rumble for a second year, then finally dethroning Cordy Stevenson at All-Star Showdown X, it doesn’t surprise me that Lowri would want to make the most of this, that she would want to savor it– moments like this don’t come around too often.

Stephy Auger: Maybe for Lowri they don’t, but they do for someone like Cordelia, or Ace Voltage.

Eventually Lowri reaches the commentators’ desk, at which point she stops to shake hands with Kris Cruise. She follows that by offering her hand to Stephy Auger, but unlike her partner on commentary, Stephy seemingly has no interest in shaking hands with the new champion. Lowri waits a couple of seconds before deciding that it is a lost cause, turning to the camera and shrugging her shoulders as if to say, “Well, I tried.” She then unfastens the championship from around her waist, and the camera picks her up saying “Get used to this sight” to Stephy, as she climbs onto the commentary table and holds aloft her title, eliciting another roar from the crowd.

Stephy Auger: Good luck trying to follow Cordy as champion. You’re going to need it.

Lowri holds the title in the air for a moment or two, before putting it over her shoulder, jumping off the table, and resuming her walk around the ringside area, again slapping hands with the fans in the front row. Once she completes her lap of the ring, she clambers up onto the ring apron, steps through the ropes, and heads for the nearest corner. She climbs to the second rope, makes the familiar ILY gesture with her right hand, and then raises her title again, drawing further cheers and applause from the crowd. After holding the title in the air for a few more seconds, soaking in the reaction, she drops back down and goes to collect a microphone, and as her music fades out, she glances around at the fans that are in attendance, basking in their cheers. She starts by giving her usual greeting.

Lowri Moss: What’s occurring, Atlantic City?

The customary cheap pop follows.

Lowri Moss: What a difference a year makes, huh? It’s a year ago to the day that we were all a couple of hours' drive up the coast from here, at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York, for All-Star Showdown IX, and at this time on that night, I would’ve been going through my final preparations, ahead of my first world championship match in FGA, as I was set to challenge for the International Heavyweight title, against Cordelia Stevenson.

The mention of the now-former Undisputed Champion causes the crowd to boo for the first time tonight.

Lowri Moss: I'm not going to go into the specifics of what happened in that match, you should all know the story by now, but the fundamental part is that on that particular night, I wasn’t quite able to become champion. A little over twenty-four hours later though, the calendar rolled over from one year to the next, and with a new year came new opportunities, like the opportunity for a “dream match,” as it was billed by some, between me and Fujiko Mine.

The fans now cheer at the mention of the former World Champion.

Lowri Moss: It was a match that was hotly anticipated, and when it finally happened, I think anyone who saw it would agree that it definitely lived up to its billing. Ultimately though, as hard as I fought, just like a few months earlier against Cordy, the match didn’t quite go my way, with Fujiko being the one who was victorious. It was a second high profile loss for me in as many pay-per-view events, but as I said shortly afterwards, I wasn’t about to press the panic button– I promised that I would learn from it, that I would bounce back, and that I would continue to strive to accomplish my goal.

There is barely a pause from Lowri, who is quick to continue.

Lowri Moss: Because up next was Only The Strong Survive, and the Gold Rush Rumble– the same match that ten months previously, I had won to earn myself a shot at the International Heavyweight title. This year I was the first person to announce myself as being an entrant in the Rumble, and my aim was clear: to become only the second two-time winner of the Gold Rush Rumble, and to go on to compete for the Undisputed Championship at All-Star Showdown X. There were certain people who didn’t believe that I could win the Rumble again though, people who thought that my victory the year before had been an outlier. But I never had a doubt in my mind– I believed that it was my Rumble to win, no matter who I had to go through; Seth Iser, Sparrow, Izzy Anders, and the rest– I outlasted them all, and won the Gold Rush Rumble for a second year in a row, just as I had said that I would.

A slightly longer pause, as she takes a breath.

Lowri Moss: I wasn’t finished there though– my victory in the Rumble wouldn’t count for much if I didn't go on and win the Undisputed Championship. I knew that I was fighting history, with six of the previous winners of the Gold Rush Rumble– including myself, the year before– having failed to go on to win the championship, but I also knew that things could be different, I believed that they would be different. I listened to people claim that the main event of All-Star Showdown was going to end the same way that the match that took place a year ago today had ended, and that Cordy’s reign would continue on into the New Year– they thought that for all of my obvious ability, that I didn’t have the killer instinct to beat someone like Cordy Stevenson with a world title at stake. But I knew differently, I knew that this… I knew that this was my time; “destiny just simply cannot be avoided.”

That last sentence is Lowri quoting something that Cordy said prior to their match twelve months ago.

Lowri Moss: And so that proved to be the case at All-Star Showdown X. I gave Cordy everything that I had and then some, determined that nothing was going to stop me this time, that nothing was going to stop my dream from coming true, and in the end, when it was all said and done, my destiny did indeed become my reality, as I became the NEW FGA UNDISPUTED CHAMPION!

The fans cheer loudly again, as Lowri holds up her title once more. They then break out into the same chant that could be heard at the conclusion of All-Star Showdown.

"YOU DESERVE IT!"
*CLAP-CLAP, CLAP-CLAP-CLAP*

"YOU DESERVE IT!"
*CLAP-CLAP, CLAP-CLAP-CLAP*

"YOU DESERVE IT!"
*CLAP-CLAP, CLAP-CLAP-CLAP*

For someone who is rarely seen without a smile, the smile on Lowri's face at this moment in time looks so big that it might have to be surgically removed.

Lowri Moss: You know, ahead of the match at All-Star Showdown, I talked about how I’m not doing this just for me, that there are a number of other people that I’m doing this for as well, and in the weeks that have followed I’ve privately thanked everyone who has helped me get to where I am right now, who has helped me become Undisputed Champion and helped me experience what was not just the best moment of my career, but the best moment of my life so far. There is one group of people who I haven’t thanked yet though, and that’s all of you: the fans. I want to thank each and every single one of you, those of you here tonight, and those of you who are watching at home. From the first time that I stepped inside an FGA ring, you have made me feel so much at home, like we’re all part of a gigantic family, so for that, and for all of the love and support that I’m sure you’ll continue to show me in the future, I just want to say, thank you.

Lowri takes a moment to glance around the venue, looking at the fans on all four sides of the ring, before she then continues.

Lowri Moss: My aim now is to be a champion that all of you and the whole promotion can be proud of. I’ve tried to make an effort by dressing a bit smarter, like might be expected of the Undisputed Champion.

Instead of the jeans and t-shirt that she is typically dressed in when not in her ring attire, Lowri is tonight wearing a black cami tank top and a brown suede midi skirt.

Lowri Moss: We’ll see how long that lasts though. I’ve already drawn the line at wearing heels.

Her skirt and top are accompanied by a pair of white Dr. Martens boots.

Lowri Moss: But in all seriousness, I’m well aware that as the champion in FGA, there’ll be no shortage of would-be challengers, all fancying a crack at my title, all wanting to be the one to dethrone me– to which I say, bring it on! I know from experience that winning a title is one thing, retaining it is quite another, but after what I had to go through to win this title, I now intend to keep hold of it for some time to come. And having won the title the right way, without ever taking any shortcuts, without compromising my values or my principles, you can be sure that I’ll defend it in exactly the same manner.

She lets out a sigh of contentment.

Lowri Moss: That’s for another night though. Later tonight, in the main event, I’m going to be closing out the year as part of a six person tag team match, in which I’ll be teaming with the United States Champion, Owen Gonsalves–

There is a cheer from the fans for the US Champion.

Lowri Moss: And the record-setting former World Champion, Fujiko Mine.

Another loud cheer for Fujiko.

Lowri Moss: And our opponents are going to be the former United States Champion, Nina Stokes–

The mention of the former US Champion is met with a mixed, predominantly negative reaction from the crowd.

Lowri Moss: The Pride Champion, Ace Voltage–

Lowri’s fellow Briton is unanimously booed.

Lowri Moss: And their partner–

"And this is what it feels like..."

The crowd instantly erupts into a chorus of boos as the soulful horns in the intro to "What It Feels Like" by Nipsey Hussle and Jay-Z blare over the speakers.

"And this is what it feels like..."

Stephy Auger: Thank God! I don’t think I could have taken one more second of Lowri’s incessant gloating.

Kris Cruise: Incessant what?! You’ve got to be kidding me, Stephy.

Stephy Auger: You heard what I said, but it’s ok because I think Cordelia is about ready to set her straight. Look at her face, Cruise, she looks about just as annoyed as I am.

The former Undisputed Champion stands atop the ramp just glaring into the ring. She shakes her head and rolls her eyes as she makes her way down the ramp. The fans offer several taunts at the former champion, but they seemingly fall upon deaf ears as Cordelia’s attention is focused solely on Lowri. Cordelia does not immediately walk up the steps, instead she circles around the ring with a predatory gaze. Finally she makes her way back around to the steps and takes her time sauntering up them before entering the ring. She is handed a microphone and the music fades out, making the chorus of boos all the more deafening. Cordelia cuts her eyes from one side to the other before returning her gaze back to Lowri.

Cordelia Stevenson: First off, Lowri;

Cordelia takes a step towards Lowri and then nods.

Cordelia Stevenson: Congratulations.

There is a brief moment of silence as the fans almost seem to be in shock. Cordelia begins to clap her hands and the fans actually follow suit, giving the new Undisputed Champion a nice round of applause. After a few seconds, a sinister sneer forms on the face of the former Undisputed Champion as she shakes her head in disgust.

Cordelia Stevenson: …On becoming this company’s number one pawn.

There it is, the other shoe finally drops and the fans quickly resort back to the chorus of boos bringing a satisfied grin to Cordelia’s face.

Cordelia Stevenson: But of course, we all knew it would be you. I mean, if not you, then who else, chica? I pretty much rendered Fujiko useless to their cause in the grand scheme of things. She can tell you herself, I ‘broke the code’ of her programming so to speak and I got her to show her true and ugly nature. I disintegrated that carefully constructed facade of hers and I took Leonard T. Asherman’s most utilized pawn in recent years and wiped her off the board; and as for Chandler…

The crowd erupts into cheers at the mentioning of the DNA of FGA.

Cordelia Stevenson: … Well, I’m pretty sure he’s dead.

Cordelia shrugs and again the fans are not amused.

Cordelia Stevenson: Mighty Sparrow hasn’t finished being groomed yet, so naturally, you were next in line. The next mindless, smiling puppet that the company could feed to these idiots.

She points an accusatory finger out at the crowd and laughs.

Cordelia Stevenson: Oh they’ll march you out here with your shiny new trinket, bright eyes, wide smile, and a million force fed lines about perseverance because at the end of the day you’re their symbol. You are their beacon of hope. That’s what Leonard T. Asherman wants you to be, Lowri, but even more than that, that’s what he needs them to want you to be, and do you know why that is?

Cordelia rolls her tongue over her lips, and saunters towards the new Undisputed Champion.

Cordelia Stevenson: It’s because he needs you to be the veil; the curtain to close over all the ugly truths that I’ve exposed in this company over these past two years; the stitching to the wounds I’ve caused to the very core of this company and it’s systemic inequalities. The sad fact of the matter is you’re just another means to an end; the feel good story to help subside the uneasiness and tumultuousness that is Cordelia Stevenson. Yet you’re too damn stupid to realize it. This isn’t about you, nor is it about your damn dream. These people aren’t celebrating your victory, they’re celebrating my loss.

Cordelia inhales sharply as she turns away, running a hand through her hair. Cordelia turns back around to face Lowri, and extends a hand towards her.

Cordelia Stevenson: How does that make you feel? Knowing that the biggest moment in your career… isn’t even about you? Didn’t you find it at least a little peculiar that no matter how hard you campaigned to have a match on night one of All-Star Showdown in the interest of fairness— that your suggestions went completely ignored? That your requests fell on deaf ears? I had your opponent all picked out and everything, but of course I knew that would never come to fruition. I knew that wasn’t a risk that they would be willing to take. Again, it was never about you— it was all about finding any way possible to put me at a disadvantage.

Cordelia chuckles.

Cordelia Stevenson: But that’s to be expected, given the systemic foundations and makeup of this company… hell, of this country in general. I’m always finding myself at a disadvantage and quite frankly, I’m sick of it. It's about time that I tilted the scales in my favor.

It’s somewhat of a cryptic statement that’s made even more dubious by the smirk that forms on Cordelia’s face. She holds up a finger.

Cordelia Stevenson: And that’ll be done soon enough. Believe me when I say that, chica. But first, you have to survive tonight.

Cordelia lets out a deep sigh and places her hand on her hips.

Cordelia Stevenson: Your first appearance as Undisputed Champion, and night one of your path to failure. I hate that it had to be you.

Cordelia’s words are shockingly sincere as she looks at Lowri almost sympathetically.

Lowri Moss: You hate that it had to be me, Cordy? I remember you saying something similar to me after what happened a year ago, that you hated that I had to be the one to have my dream snatched away after having worked so hard for an opportunity. Do you really hate that it had to be me though? I mean, you sound genuine enough, but just last week on Twitter you told me that you were sorry that you had set me up for failure, before then immediately following that with another tweet saying that you weren't really, so what should I believe, Cordy?

Lowri does not give Cordy a chance to reply, not yet anyway, as she continues.

Lowri Moss: On second thought, it doesn't really matter. You can think whatever you want to think, Cordy, that's your prerogative. Maybe the thing you truly hate is simply that I’m the champion now, not you.

She gazes over towards the commentary desk, before turning her attention back to Cordy.

Lowri Moss: You know, I heard what Stephy said to me when I was standing over there on the table. I know that you're going to be a hard act to follow as champion. For the past two years you haven't just been the best in FGA, you've been arguably the best in our entire sport. You set the standard for the rest of us, but I know what I’m capable of inside this ring. At the start of the year, I backed myself to climb back from square one; I overcame the hurt that you had forced me to endure, I didn't let anything hold me back, and the end result of all that is me standing here now with the Undisputed Championship over my shoulder.

Lowri takes a quick glance at the title resting on shoulder.

Lowri Moss: Night one of my path to failure?

She dismisses that suggestion with a shake of her head.

Lowri Moss: This is night one of the latest chapter of me continuing to forge my legacy here in FGA. Sure you'll be a difficult act to follow as champion, but I know that I’m up to the task, just like I was up to the task of being the one to end your reign. Whoever I have to defend this title against, to prove myself as champion, I welcome the challenge. Because when it comes down to it, I’m going to back myself every single time.

Cordelia looks at Lowri with a hint of sadness in her eyes. She shakes her head as she motions towards Lowri with a nod.

Cordelia Stevenson: This right here is exactly what I’m talking about, chica. This is why I meant exactly what I said on both accounts. I am sorry that I’ve set you up for failure, because in case you haven’t realized it – that is exactly what I’ve done. FGA, Leonard T Asherman… they want nothing more than for you to overshadow me. They want nothing more than for you to replace me… to erase me, because that will keep their machine running as smoothly as possible. You’re safe. You don’t rock the boat. But the thing is, Lowri, I’ve left you with a bar that is damn near impossible to reach. They’re asking you to do something that simply can’t be done because the fact of the matter is… these people will never forget me; they will never forget the truths I’ve exposed, no matter how hard they try to deny it; and my words… everything I’ve stood for will forever be etched into their minds. No, you don’t deserve the weight of that burden, Lowri. So yes, I do hate that it had to be you, because you do deserve your moment in the sun. But at the same time I’m unapologetic because of what you represent. Their agenda. My beef was never with you, Lowri, no matter how much you’ve disillusioned yourself to think otherwise. You just happened to take things personally because you’re under the incredibly wrong assumption that this is about you, when it never was. And that’s exactly why you’re destined for failure.

Cordelia scoffs as she leans forward, looking Lowri directly in her eyes.

Cordelia Stevenson: Did you not hear yourself just now? You know what you’re capable of… inside the ring, and that right there is the problem, chica. Because what I did, the message I spread, it transcended this damn ring and it transcended that damn title. It reverberated and sent shockwaves throughout the industry. You’re trying to forge a legacy here in FGA and I was breaking through the glass ceiling and opening windows of opportunity for an entire people. We… are… not… the… same.

Every word is given emphasis as Cordelia sneers at Lowri.

Cordelia Stevenson: And there is no following me. You even believing that you can lets me know that I am spot on when I say this is night one on your path to failure. You’re amazing in this ring, Lowri. I will never deny that. Hell, at All-Star Showdown, you were able to do something that no one else has ever been able to do and that was to make me submit. No, I will never deny what you’re capable of in this ring, Lowri. But please, let us acknowledge that as your limitation. You’re unable to see anything outside of these ropes, and that, my friend, is the reason why you will fail in the long run. As for tonight…

Cordelia’s words trail off as she slowly turns away.

Cordelia Stevenson: Well, I think the biggest reason is kind of obvious and doesn’t need to be stated, especially since she shouldn’t even be in the match considering what it’s being billed as…

She coughs and mutters a name.

Cordelia Stevenson: Fujiko.

Cordelia clears her throat and rolls her eyes.

Cordelia Stevenson: The so-called record-setting World Champion as you like to call her, despite me surpassing everything she did by a longshot…

Cordy scoffs and points an accusing finger at Lowri as she rushes her next words out in a huff.

Cordelia Stevenson: Just another example of you and FGA trying to diminish and undermine me, don’t think I haven’t noticed it by the way.

She huffs, taking a quick second to gather herself before forcing on a smile.

Cordelia Stevenson: But I just hope you’re ready to embrace disappointment, because you’re going to come to know it quite well in the upcoming weeks.

Lowri shakes her head, trying not to allow what she has just listened to irk her, still managing to maintain her smile.

Lowri Moss: I’ve already had to bear enough disappointment, Cordy. Now it’s my time to thrive.

Cordelia chuckles and casually shrugs her shoulders.

Cordelia Stevenson: Yeah, good luck with that.

She dismissively flips the microphone, sending it sailing through the air and crashing at Lowri’s feet, before turning to exit the ring.

[FADE OUT]

[FGA Office]

Betsy Gallagher vs. Sarah Santa Monica

"Dusted" by Astroid Boys plays and Betsy walks out with her robe on, taking her place in the middle of the ramp, where she stretches her arms to either side and lets the robe fall slightly down her back, exposing her shoulders but still being mostly worn.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, hailing from Manchester, England! Weighing in at 145 pounds… BETSY GALLAGHER!

As she starts walking to the ring, she alternates between pointing at herself and at the crowd, her confidence only second to how much she appreciates the fans.

J.A. Aldridge: Her opponent, already in the ring. Hailing from The West Side… Sarah Santa Monica!

Sarah Santa Monica hops up to the middle ropes and points out at the crowd.

Kris Cruise: We’re kicking off the 10 Year Anniversary Show with the in-ring debut of Betsy Gallagher. Betsy is a member of the Gallagher family, who are well known in the UK wrestling scene. She’s going to try and live up to their name here stateside.

Stephy Auger: Best of luck. She’ll need it!

The bell sounds as Gallagher and SSM circle the ring. Both grapplers engage in a lock up. SSM finds herself quickly overpowered as Gallagher shoves her back, sending her stumbling backwards into the ropes. SSM looks around in a bit of shock before circling the ring. Gallagher continues to keep her eyes locked on her opponent. SSM then shoots in and goes for a single leg, but Gallgher is able to block with a sprawl before sending her tumbling to the side with a push off. SSM quickly gets back to her feet, charges over at Gallagher and throws out a running shoulder block. The crowd cheers when SSM bounces off Gallagher and drops to the mat.

Kris Cruise: I don’t think that trying to knock Gallagher off her feet is the smartest idea.

Stephy Auger: From the reports I’ve seen, Betsy’s more known for her catch and technical wrestling. It’s a small sample size, but she’s showing she’s got some power, too.

SSM rolls away from Gallagher and returns to a vertical base. She slowly inches her way over to Gallagher and motions for a lock up. When Gallagher bites on the collar-and-elbow attempt, SSM hits a drop-step go-behind before applying a rear waistlock. Gallagher wastes no time grabbing onto SSM’s wrists and pulling her hands apart. She then reverses into an arm wrench. After a second arm wrench is delivered, she moves SSM into the near ropes before pushing her off into the far ropes. When SSM returns, Gallagher knocks her off her feet with a single leg dropkick. Gallagher takes SSM, moves into the corner and delivers a trio of European Uppercuts before moving her back out of the corner for an irish whip. SSM returns off the rebound before getting knocked down with a spinning back elbow.

Kris Cruise: Oh man, that elbow caught her right across the face!

Gallagher pulls SSM back up before whipping her hard into the corner. SSM crashes sternum-first into the turnbuckle and stumbles back until she gets dropped from behind with the Knightmaker (Elbow Smash to the back of the opponent's head)! The cheers continue as SSM gets pulled back to her feet before getting doubled over with three knees to the midsection. Gallagher then hits the ropes, returns and drops SSM down to a knee after a Regal Knee to the side of the head. She then pulls SSM to her feet by the back of the tights before turning her inside out with a wristlock transitioned into a Short-Arm Lariat!

Kris Cruise: Queen's Lariat!

Gallagher pulls SSM back to her feet, lifts her up and throws her down with the Betsy Bomb (Sitout Double Underhook Powerbomb)!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd cheers as “Dusted” hits the speakers.

J.A. Aldridge: Here is your winner, Betsy Gallagher!

The cheers continue as Gallagher gets her arm raised in victory. She then gives the raised pinky gesture before exiting the ring.

Kris Cruise: Betsy Gallagher just made short work of Sarah Santa Monica!

Stephy Auger: She got her first win in FGA out of the way. Good for her. But know this, Betsy. It only gets harder from here.

[FGA Office]

5The scene opens up with Antoinette standing backstage, dressed in special custom designed black and red ring gear for competition later tonight, on the 10 year anniversary show! With a look of confidence on her face, Antoinette rolls her neck as she looks up to the camera, mid stretch, before speaking out.

ANTOINETTE: Tonight is a night like no other! It isn’t just a regular show, but it is a night where we are all gathered here to celebrate ten years of FGA history! Tonight we celebrate a company that has been home to some of the best talent in professional wrestling today and I am so honored to be included.

Antoinette smiles, nodding her head as she stands up tall.

ANTOINETTE: A win out there tonight would mean so much more to me than a statement on my record, but be a statement of where I am headed. I haven’t been here for the full ten years, I haven't scratched the surface nearly as much as I would have liked to yet here, but what I do know is that this place has been my home and has helped shape me into the competitor I am today. I couldn’t be anymore grateful for being given the opportunity to work among some of the greatest of the greatest and learn first hand from the best. A win tonight on the big anniversary would show the entire locker room, and everyone watching that Antoinette is a breakout star that you need to keep your eyes on. Ever since coming back and returning I made it my mission to not give up again. I wanted to come back and make not only you all, but myself proud and push myself beyond belief to make it to the top. People take one look at me and they don’t see a serious competitor, or a future champion. When people see Antoinette as an opponent I know exactly what they think, and it is partially my own fault. I allowed myself to lose sight of what was important and I’m barely viewed as a serious competitor or threat anymore….

She shakes her head before biting down on her lower lip before looking up.

ANTOINETTE: I’m not an easy target. I’m not someone that people can easily bulldoze over for their easy cheap victories. I’m not going down without a fight and mark my words…you will see me as a Champion here this year. I have my sights set on high goals and a purpose much bigger than what I’ve been serving currently. I’ve been sent to this planet to prove that weirdos like myself can prove everyone wrong and be something to be cautious of.

Antoinette says with her voice becoming more serious.

ANTOINETTE: On Night two of All Star Showdown I let down not only myself but every single person watching who believed in me. I honestly felt like I was going to walk out of that match successful and with a HUGE win under my belt….but before I knew it…it was all over. Don’t get me wrong, I know that match was one of the best of my career so far. We all went in there and gave it our all and of course only one person could have walked out successful…it just wasn’t me. I couldn’t get the job done and a night that could have put me on the mark wasn’t what I expected.

Letting out a sigh, she shakes her head before snapping out of it, looking up before nodding.

ANTOINETTE: It wasn’t what I expected however I won’t let it set me back. I’ve worked my entire life proving others wrong and making it my mission to show that I am much more than what meets the eyes. I have what it takes to be at the top and I WILL get there, sooner than you all expect little Ant to be. Julian, you were the better competitor that night. You already know that I have all the respect in the world for you, I mean I knew I had my work cut out for me since I had the pleasure of teaming next to you! However where you were the better man that night, I know I have what it takes to beat you…just like I know I have what it takes to beat Macy tonight. The thing about me is I don’t let defeat define or delay me. I won’t give up or stop chasing my goals because I have a bad night. I know most people are fully expecting me to fail tonight based on my last performance and to those people? I hope they have a good seat and are watching closely tonight. Tonight the least expected person is going to turn the heads of every single person in attendance tonight and make a statement going forward. I have my eyes open wide and I am hungry for gold….and there’s no more room for mistakes.

A smile crosses her face, before Antoinette steps back and grins widely.

ANTOINETTE: Mace, it is good to see you back! I’m looking forward to this match tonight and I know you are going to give it to me since I know you are itching to get back to it. Trust me…I’ve been there myself recently! This match with you will be an instant classic and I know everyone watching will be entertained the entire way through! However…this is the year of the ANT!

Antoinette smiles and jumps up and down, hyping herself up as she playfully air punches at the camera lens before walking off to get ready for tonight.

[FGA Office]

Macy Dover is sitting on a box in the hallway of the Boardwalk Hall. She flips over a business card between her fingers as she looks to be in contemplation. Then she notices the camera she’d requested meet her there. Once the camera comes close enough she hides the card in her hand. Sitting forward on the box and looking into the camera.

Macy Dover: Remember me? For those that don’t, let me reintroduce myself. The name is Macy Dover. For those that do, you’ll know this is more talking than I may have done the entire career.

She hopped up off the box, standing in front of it now. She pulled the card from her hand showing it to the camera. A 3GW business card with a number written onto the back of it.

Macy Dover: See this, a card given to me at SSWA Empire back in 2016. A scout acting for the company looking for talent knew exactly what he wanted. One of the most decorated wrestlers in SSWA history. I came to 3GW and continued my success in another company.

She stuffs the card back into her back pocket now. Balling her hands together and rubbing them. She takes a deep breath.

Macy Dover: But then 3GW was no more, and the option was… find another place to work or move to FGA. So I did, with the 15 Championship in tow. And I was here long enough to lose to Terrance Tillman and lose what I held so dear from all my hard work in 3GW. You’d need a few hands to count how many times me and Terrance were in that ring together. And all I needed would have been one more to get my revenge…

Macy Dover: But then I was hurried off and out of all of wrestling. That’s a long story that I’ll tell another time, or maybe even not since I’m not a lawyer and don’t know what all I can say about it.

Macy slams her hand back into the box, echoing in the room.

Macy Dover: Anyways, that’s a long winded way to say, I’m back now. And I’ve got a lot of work to do in FGA still. See I’ve been successful everywhere I’ve been except in FGA. And tonight I make my return. So Antoinette, you seem like a nice girl and all, but when we get in that ring I don’t care. Tonight I set out to finish the journey I started a long time ago. And no one is going to stand in my way.

She pushes off the box now she was leaning on. Nodding at the camera before walking out of the shot.

[FGA Office]

Antoinette vs. Macy Dover

Anyway we up in this motherfucker,
Security fucking with me, telling us to stop standing on the god damn couches
Now motherfucker, you could get hurt

Turn Down for What!

"Turn Down For What" by Upon a Burning Body & Ice T begins to blare over the PA system as Ice T yells over the pumping guitars. Out onto the ramp walks Macy Dover stopping to look around the arena for a second at the top of the ramp. She hears the boos as she waves the fans off ignoring their reaction. She clenches her hands by her side, still listening to the boos as she shakes her head. She then begins walking down the ramp.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, hailing from National City, California! Weighing in at 135 pounds! She is “The Bulldover”... MACY DOVER!

A few younger fans reach out their hands hoping she'll reach out and give them a high five, but she ignores them as she makes her way to the ring. She then walks over to the stairs walking up them before swinging around the turnbuckle.

Kris Cruise: Macy Dover is making her comeback to FGA after a number of years away from the squared circle. She’s ready to pick up where she left off, Stephy.

Stephy Auger: That’s right. Dover has been super successful everyone else but FGA. She’s ready to take her career back. But that’s not the only thing she wants to take back.

Kris Cruise: Are you hinting at what I think you’re hinting at?

Stephy Auger: You’re a smart guy, Cruise. I’m pretty sure you can connect the dots.

On the apron she wipes her feet before dropping into the ring between the top and middle rope. She walks over to the referee to have him check her before going to her corner and waiting for the match to start.

“Killin It” by Krewella hits the P.A system and the fans erupt in cheers. Pink and purple lights zoom around the arena as Antoinette Sands comes skipping out from the back. With a perky smile as ever, she jumps up and down amping the fans up before she delivers one final jump, slapping her shoes down on the ground before running down the ramp. As she runs, she slaps the hands of some fans, glitter spewing from her hands as she slaps theirs. She looks down at the kandi on her wrist, tossing it into the crowd as they cheer.

J.A. Aldridge: Her opponent, hailing from Durham, North Carolina! Weighing in at 121 pounds… ANTIONETTE!

As she makes her way down the ramp, she approaches the ring as she climbs up the ring apron she stands up and removes her sparkly jacket tossing it to the side as she enters. Once she’s in the ring, she bounces up and down, screaming out to the fans who encourage her before playfully slapping hands with the ref as she awaits the arrival of her opponent.

Kris Cruise: Antoinette has proclaimed that 2022 is going to be the Year of the Ant! She’ll have plenty of time to work with. But a win tonight against Macy Dover would give her the momentum to kick things off right.

Stephy Auger: I’ll give her this. She dropped that loser “Sands” surname just as quickly as she dropped her teammates Ashley Marie Chase and Ashley Sands. So it seems like she finally got some sense knocked into her. If you ask me, she’s on the right track already!

The match starts off with Antoinette and Dover locking up. The Bulldover quickly overpowers Antoinette and muscles her across the ring and into the corner. While the two remain tied up in the corner, the ref goes over and gives them to the count of five to break it up.

Ref: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR!

Both grapplers make a clean break… until Dover catches Antoinette with a European Uppercut. The boos continue when Antoinette gets caught with a second European Uppercut. After a third uppercut finds its mark, Antoinette gets sent into the far corner with an irish whip. Dover charges over to attack, but she runs right into a back elbow to the face. Dover shakes off the blow before rushing back in. This time, a boot to the face knocks Dover back. Antoinette takes advantage of the opening as she runs out of the corner and brings Dover down with a running dropkick. The cheers continue as Dover gets knocked off her feet with a second dropkick. Antoinette goes for a third, but she goes to the well one too many times as Dover side steps and swats her down. Dover lines up Antoinette before throwing out a running bicycle kick. But Antoinette’s able to slip out of the way and hit the ropes. When Antoinette returns, she brings Dover down with a headscissors takeover. Dover returns to a vertical base, turns around and gets knocked through the ropes to the floor with a third dropkick!

Kris Cruise: Dover’s been sent to the floor! This isn’t the start she was hoping for.

Back inside, Antoinette scales the turnbuckles. Once Dover gets to her feet and turns around, Antoinette leaps off and knocks her down with a diving crossbody!

Kris Cruise: The Ant just took flight and knocks Dover down!

Dover gets rolled back inside. Antoinette then rolls herself back in and makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Dover kicks out.

Antoinette picks up Dover and doubles her over with multiple spin kicks before bringing her down with a swinging neckbreaker. She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Dover kicks out.

Antoinette picks up Dover and tries for a vertical suplex. Dover blocks it. Antoinette tries to muscle her up for another suplex. Again, Dover blocks it. Dover then goes to reverse into a suplex of her own. But Antoinette slips down from behind and follows up with a running bulldog. The cheers continue as she makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!.
.
.
Dover gets the shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Another nearfall for Antoinette. It looks like Dover might have a bit more rust to shake off.

Stephy Auger: C’mon, Mace! Don’t let this RugrANT run right over you!

Antoinette takes Dover and whips her into the corner. The crowd cheers as she rushes across the ring and catches Dover in the corner with a running big boot.

Kris Cruise: Shades of her former teammate, Ashley Sands!

Stephy Auger: Dare I say she throws out a better Wind Kick than Sands does.

Kris Cruise: Stop trying to pit these two against each other. You’re sounding just like Mark Bisley from a year ago.

Antoinette climbs up to the middle ropes before grabbing a hold of Dover. She’s about to go for a Tornado DDT until Dover slips free, takes a couple of steps back and then nails her with a running bicycle kick. The crowd gasps, then boos as Antoinette backflips over the top rope as she tumbles to the floor.

Kris Cruise: That bicycle kick just sent Ant crashing hard to the outside!

Stephy Auger: Ooo, that sounded like it hurt.

Antoinette slowly pulls herself up on the outside. As she turns to her right, Dover slips to the outside, charges forward and nails her with a battering ram, squashing her against the steel steps.

Stephy Auger: That’ll knock the wind right out of you, Cruise!

Dover picks up Antoinette before dropping her face-first across the edge of the apron with a snake eyes.

Kris Cruise: Dover isn’t showing any remorse.

Stephy Auger: Why should she? This is wrestling! Did Ant check on her before she jumped off and hit that crossbody to the outside? Of course not!

Dover takes Antoinette and rolls her back inside. She then reaches back in, grabs Antoinette by the hair and drags her back out onto the apron before delivering a pointed elbow strike across the throat.

Stephy Auger: Good, maybe that'll shut her up. That voice is like nails on a chalkboard, you know.

Kris Cruise: Why are you being so mean to poor Antoinette? That woman has never done nothing to anyone.

Antoinette rolls back inside and crawls over into the nearest corner. She can be seen gasping for air as Dover slips back inside the ring. As Dover approaches, Antoinette pulls herself up in the corner. She tries to fight Dover off with kicks to the midsection. But Dover’s able to snatch a hold of her ankle on the last kick attempt. She then drags Antoinette out of the corner before bringing her down with a dragon screw leg whip. Antoinette tries her best to quickly get back to her feet, but Dover is there to knock her right down with a Shining Wizard! The boos continue as she makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Antoinette gets the shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Ant got caught right in the face with that knee, but she had the wherewithal to get her shoulder up.

Stephy Auger: Don’t worry. Dover will knock her out in short order.

Dover takes Antoinette and whips her into the ropes. She sets up for an irish whip off the return, but Antoinette counters with a kick to the face that knocks her upright. While Dover is dazed, Antoinette turns and heads back into the ropes. Whens he returns, Dover knocks her off her feet with a spinning heel kick. She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Antoinette gets the shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Good counter there by Dover, but Ant still gets the shoulder up in time.

Dover snatches Antoinette off the mat before throwing her down with a scoop slam. The boos continue as Dover delivers three knee drops across Antoinette’s chest. She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Antoinette gets the shoulder up.

Dover grabs Antoinette, drags her over towards the side of the ring and chokes her across the middle rope. The crowd boos Dover while the ref gives her to the count of five to break the choke.

Ref: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR!

Dover breaks the choke as she turns and takes off into the far ropes. She runs back across the ring, jumps up and lands across Antoinette’s back with a leapfrog body guillotine! Antoinette drops to the mat before Dover makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Antoinette gets her foot on the bottom rope.

Kris Cruise: Good ring awareness there by Antoinette.

Stephy Auger: More like luck!

Dover grabs Antoinette by the ankle and drags her over towards the center of the ring. She reaches down, grabs Antoinette’s wrist and pulls her back to her feet. She goes to take Antoinette’s head off with a short-arm clothesline, but Antoinette ducks and takes off into the ropes. Antoinette picks up speed as she runs back across the ring. She throws out a running big boot, but Dover’s able to catch her foot.

Stephy Auger: Nope, not this time, missy!

Dover swings Antoinette’s leg away from her, takes control of her back and goes for a belly to back suplex. Antoinette rolls over her shoulder, lands on her feet and goes for another running bulldog. Dover counters by pushing her off into the ropes. When Antoinette returns, the crowd boos when Dover knocks her down with a leg lariat. She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Antoinette gets the shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Another nearfall for the Bulldover.

Stephy Auger: She’s just building on that offense, Cruise. This match is firmly in her control.

Dover steps out to the apron before scaling the turnbuckles. Once Antoinette returns to her feet and turns around, Dover leaps off for a missile dropkick! She misses! The crowd cheers when Sands dives out of the way, causing Dover to crash hard to the floor.

Kris Cruise: Dover caught nothing but canvas on that one!

Stephy Auger: MACY! NOOOO!

Dover gets back to her feet and is immediately caught with several forearms from Antoinette. She’s then whipped into the corner before Antoinette runs over and throws her out of the corner with a monkey flip. Antoinette slips out to the apron and climbs the turnbuckles. When Dover gets back to her feet and turns around, Antoinette leaps off and knocks her down with another diving crossbody!

NO!

Dover rolls through it and pulls Antoinette up as she returns to her feet. She then hoists Antoinette up before catching her across her shoulders. Before Dover can slam Antoinette down, Antoinette counters with multiple elbows to the side of the head. She then slips down from behind before bringing Dover down with the Sugar Rush (Russian Leg Sweep)! Antoinette opts to head to the apron instead of going for the pin.

Stephy Auger: Why isn’t she going for the cover! Dover is right there!

Kris Cruise: Ant wants to go to the top t finish her off!

The cheers continue as Antoinette scales the turnbuckles. Once Dover is back to a vertical base, Antoinette leaps off and knocks her down with a missile dropkick to the back of the head! She pushes Dover over and makes the cover.

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

Dover gets the shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Dover gets the shoulder up in time! That was a close call, Stephy!

Stephy Auger: Thank you, Mace! Thank you!

Antoinette returns to a vertical base before pointing back to the top turnbuckle.

Kris Cruise: Ant wants to go to the top again!

After hearing the cheers from the crowd, Antoinette marches across the ring and starts to scale the turnbuckles. When a dazed Dover gets back to her feet and turns around, Antoinette flips off and knocks her down with the Rave-A-Round (corkscrew moonsault)!

NO!

Dover catches Antoinette across her shoulder before throwing her down with authority with a front powerslam! The Bulldover reaches down, snatches up Antoinette by the wrist and turns her inside out with a short-arm clothesline. The boos continue as she snatches up Antoinette by the wrist again. Dover maintains control of Antoinette’s wrist before bringing her down with Mace to the Face (Inverted Stomp Facebreaker)! She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd boos as “Turn Down for What” hits the speakers.

J.A. Aldridge: Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this bout… MACY DOVER!

The boos continue as Dover gets her arm raised in victory.

Kris Cruise: Macy Dover picks up the win in her return bout here in FGA.

Stephy Auger: The outcome was never in doubt, Cruise. Never in doubt.

Kris Cruise: Well we must have been watching different matches because the outcome was very much in doubt. This match was completely up for grabs and Ant had a chance to put Dover away there. That slight bit of hesitation proved costly in the end. But Ant’s still young. She’ll learn from this and she’ll be better for next time. For Dover, I know it must feel good to finally get a win after so many years away.

Stephy Auger: You bet it does and if you think she’s going to just stop here, you’ve got another thing coming. You know what she’s after…

[FGA Office]

The scene comes into focus in one of the locker rooms set up inside the Boardwalk Hall. There we find oerTheodore Harris and Logan Alexander standing side by side. Logan, dressed to compete and wearing the FGA Legacy championship around his waist proudly, stands with his arms folded across his chest, while his gaze seems fixed on some point off to the side of the camera. Theodore meanwhile, dressed in a steel gray suit with a navy blue shirt on under it, smiles towards the camera.

Theodore Harris: Well it’s been two months since All Star Showdown and Logan’s championship triumph there…

He pauses there to glance over at Logan and then down towards the title belt around his waist.

Theodore Harris: …and our feelings of disappointment at how events of that night had unfolded, despite the positive outcome for us.

He frowns slightly in acknowledgement of that last match.

Theodore Harris: But… we are back now and ready to get back on track. One day, Logan will have another opportunity against Mig… well, I suppose he’s just Sparrow now. Regardless, the two of them will cross paths again in the ring, hopefully without any third wheels being involved. Despite Bisley not directly factoring into the ending of either fall at All Star Showdown, Logan spending so much time, effort and focus on beating him up did result in Sparrow hitting those two Notorious Kicks in succession. As a testament to this man’s spirit and will to carry on though, he was able to get back up, endure even more punishment and deliver the one deciding Stryke Force to end it. Despite everything being tilted heavily against him in those moments immediately preceding that specific one and that he was facing such a talented individual like Sparrow, Logan was able to hit his move and secure the win. It wasn’t the way we wanted and it sure wasn’t pretty how he got there, but in the end he did get there. Now we’re here to close out the year with the champion’s first title defense against a man that was a champion himself right up until the night before Logan became one. They’ve crossed paths before and it’s almost exactly three years to the day too.

Theodore looks up slightly, extending one hand out in front him and moving it across in front of him as though he was reading something off a hanging banner.

Theodore Harris: Final Frontier. Frontier Lion’s Cup quarterfinal. Logan Alexander versus Cassius Reed.

He lowers his hand and looks back at the camera.

Theodore Harris: Been quite some time since that match happened, and it’s still a good watch today. The two of them were in vastly different positions back then. Logan was half of one of the most dominant tag team champions that FGA had ever seen. Cassius was an up and coming singles star that had made a name for himself by winning tournaments. Now the two of them have swapped roles somewhat. Cassius became half of the FGA World Tag Team champions, becoming less of a solo competitor. Logan has established himself as a solid singles competitor and now has some championship gold to go with it. But there is one thing that hasn’t changed between then and now. Logan is a champion. Cassius is not.

Theodore smirks to the camera.

Theodore Harris: We know that Cassius is aiming to change that tonight. Probably views himself as a victim of circumstance with what happened at All Star Showdown. We all saw him berating TJ for what had happened there, trying to scapegoat him for their loss before ultimately attacking him and likely putting TJ on the shelf for some time. It’s unfortunate to see something like that happen. That betrayal of trust after an ego suffers a bruising because reality simply won’t suffer arrogant fools gladly. Cassius took out his own failure on TJ. Yes, his failure.

He pauses to let that sink in.

Theodore Harris: It’s not like Cassius was unaware of his partner’s apparent limitations. He was quite clear in berating him about all the bad things that TJ has done across their title reign. Stephy would certainly vouch for Cassius in that regard, since she was quite happy to point them out at every opportunity as well. But did Cassius actually try to improve his partner and their teamwork, or did just figure he would try to carry him and then tantrum when he ended up not being good enough to do so?

Looking disappointed, Theodore shakes his head for a few moments.

Theodore Harris: It certainly seems like he went with the second option there. Perhaps he came up short because he misplaced his special elbow pad.

He snorts softly.

Theodore Harris: Seeing all of that unfold hit a chord with Logan though. His story has a few chapters that unfolded similarly to that one. The most recent one is well known to people here in FGA with Ashlyn turning against him after Pendragon got the better of them in 2019.

He briefly glances over towards Logan, who doesn’t even acknowledge the words or gaze of his manager.

Theodore Harris: Now usually, Logan would avoid situations like this since they don’t really concern him. Of course, most situations don’t unfold in a way that lets him get involved through a duly scheduled match, so he will definitely make an exception in this case.

Theodore smirks once more.

Theodore Harris: As TJ isn’t scheduled to be here tonight, Logan will happily take the first crack at giving you what you’re owed for your actions, Cassius. But don’t worry TJ, there will be enough left of him at the end that you’ll be able to get your shots in later on.

His expression turns serious as he continues.

Theodore Harris: So Cassius, hopefully you’re ready for what’s coming your way tonight. You may have your eyes on the prize, but you’re not going to get what you want, only what you deserve. Logan hasn’t come this far and fought through better opponents than you just to let you walk away with his title. That’s just not going to happen here tonight. If you’re lucky though Cassius, you’ll just have a moment of deja vu from 2018 where you’re looking up at the lights with Logan standing victorious once again as opposed to being helped out of the ring by officials and trainers like your former partner was at All Star Showdown.

There’s a hint of a smile on Theodore’s face as he leans closer to the camera.

Theodore Harris: But you’ll find out for sure in just a little while. We’ll see you soon.

With that, the scene fades to black.

[FGA Office]

Gareth Prichard Jr. v. Zack Gall

As the first sounds of Hey man, nice shot! by Filter begin blasting through the P.A System; the arena goes dark and a single spotlight appears in the middle of the stage. After a couple of seconds, the imposing and mysterious figure of Dante Difranco appears in the spotlight followed by his client, Zack “The Dragon” Gall.

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Newport, Wales… Weighing in at 190 pounds… he is… ZACK… THE DRAGON… GALL!

Gall shakes a bit, moving his arms and hands while shaking his head from side to side as the light slowly comes back on. Gall and Difranco look around and the Italian signals his client to move towards the ring. As the two march down, Gall takes some seconds to inspect the surroundings. Once they get near the apron, Gall slides under the bottom rope and once he’s in the middle of the ring he gets to his knees, extending his arms and hitting the mat a couple of times before getting on his feet and rushing towards the ropes making a throat cut sign.

After the protocols have been done, the arena goes dark once more and the first two drum beats of “Revolt” by WildFire signal the arrival of Gareth Prichard Jr.

J.A. Aldridge: And his opponent… hailing from Cardiff, Wales and weighing in at 185 pounds… He is… THE KING OF FAILURE… GARETH PRICHARD JR!

Even with Aldridge’s introduction, the man doesn't come out… after a while of this playing out, the reason for Gareth not appearing becomes evident, as his voice can be heard all across the P.A System…

Gareth Prichard Jr: Were you expecting me to come out when you thought I should? Like, on cue with the music and all. What do you think this is? A video game? No…

The man walks out of the curtain with a microphone in his hand, no music playing, and every light on. He points at the ring as he continues his tirade.

Gareth Prichard Jr: This isn’t a video game and I’m sure my opponent there doesn’t think it is either. We can both agree that this is an outrageous match from the very start. From the very moment this match was announced we both knew this was preposterous, how can you put two Welsh wrestlers with different backgrounds in the same wrestling ring, at the same damn time, and not expect it to steal the fucking show from the ones who believe themselves as superiors?

A smirk appeared on Gareth’s face as he began walking down the ramp.

Gareth Prichard Jr: I mean, it’s fairly obvious we’re not even in the minds of the higher-ups. We might as well be Laura Perelli and miss out on the show entirely for all they care…

Prichard snickers as he continues.

Gareth Prichard Jr: Because let’s be real when was the last time FGA emphasized the GRAPPLING ARTS part of its name? In the last couple of years the product has been watered down to Twitter feuds and who has the better timeline… as it has happened with the whole damn wrestling world. Yet, I get it… this is a business, to run a business you need to keep the dollars rolling; and to keep the dollars rolling you need to “sell” something the public wants to watch and that isn’t WRESTLING. So I don’t know why the two of us are even doing, Zack. I know your manager… I know what you can do… you know what I can do… and to be honest it isn’t what THE HIGHER UPS want to see anymore. Yet… here we are.

Gareth stops right in front of the apron and smiles at Zack before finishing his tirade.

Gareth Prichard Jr: So, on the 10th anniversary of this promotion… let’s remind these people what the letters FGA, REALLY, and TRULY stand for…

Gall invites his opponent to the ring and Gareth, rather uncharacteristically for him these days, obliges forcing the referee to ring the bell as the two Welsh wrestlers wail at each other in the middle of the ring.

Kris Cruise: I guess the choice words Gareth had to begin things ignited something in The Dragon.

Stephy Auger: Wait! WE HAVE HOW MANY WELSH HERE!?

Both wrestlers continue punching each other in the clinch as neither looks for separation at this moment in time, but this is Gall’s realm and he takes advantage of the gift Gareth laid out in front of him as he punishes his compatriot with a series of open palm strikes and knees to the body of Prichard that finally makes The King of Failure break the clinch and reel in pain towards the ropes. Gall doesn’t let go of the early pace as he continues punishing his opponent with open palm strikes to the body forcing Gareth to cover and try avoiding getting hit. Gall pushes Prichard to the corner and continues raining strikes on him as Gareth can only stand his ground and wait for an opening.

Kris Cruise: Gareth must avoid playing to Gall’s strengths here, as any well-placed strike by Gall could signify the end of the night for Prichard.

Gall continues his relentless attack, but Gareth’s patience is starting to pay off as Zack begins to slow down; enough for Prichard to mount some offense of his own with a series of forearm strikes that force Gall away from him. Yet, the momentum is short-lived as Gall quickly snuff out any fire Gareth might’ve had with a swift headbutt that put Gareth on his ass in the middle of the ring. There’s a smile on Gall’s face; as well as on his manager’s face. No doubt product of the fact the gameplan they had, has been working so far. Gareth brushes his lower lip with his right-hand thumb and smirks as he begins getting back to his feet. Once there, Gall steps right on Gareth’s face and they both stand nose to nose until Gareth slaps the hell out of Gall and grabs the right arm, and falls backward forcing his knees into Gall’s arm.

Stephy Auger: HAHAHAHA! That’s new from Neal… I mean, Gareth.

This proves to be a turning point for Gareth as he begins to target Gall’s arms and neck with stops and strikes with the elbows, keeping Gall right where he wants him… on the ground. Continuously negating Gall’s striking abilities with well-placed strikes of his right in the same limbs, setting up for later.

Gall sees himself in trouble and waits patiently for a mistake from Gareth, a mistake that seemingly doesn’t want to come… as Gareth continues to attack Gall’s shoulder area, yet this proves to be Gareth’s undoing as when he goes for another elbow strike on the shoulder; Gall can grab him and hit him with a snapmare that flips the script and allows Gall to stand up and hit Gareth with a Roundhouse kick that seemingly knocked the air out of Gareth as he falls to the mat face first.

Stephy Auger: NO! NO! Gareth was doing just great!

Kris Cruise: And that’s why facing Gall is a tricky endeavor for anyone in FGA, one good strike and it can turn the match on a dime.

Gall sees an opening to press his offense on a prone King of Failure; as Gareth crawls towards the ropes looking to stand back up. As Gareth is near to the top rope, Gall hits him with a Tiger Feint Kick to the midsection and quickly applies pressure with an Octopus Hold, repeatedly hitting Gareth’s ribs with elbows. Gareth’s face tells the story as each successive hit causes more and more pain to the former FGA Tag-Team Champion. Sensing he has done enough damage, Gall lets go of the hold, only to hit Gareth cleanly with an Exploder Suplex followed by a pin attempt from The Dragon.

ONE…

TWO…

NO!

Gareth survives this first pin attempt by Gall as Difranco smiles on the outside. Gall smirks, deep down he knows he would’ve needed more to finish Gareth in this match. Yet he isn’t sleeping on his laurels as he continues to put pressure on his opponent driving Gareth towards the rope and Irish whipping him for a clothesline that dropped Gareth back to the mat. Sensing things aren’t going his way, Gareth moves out of the ring to regroup.

Kris Cruise: Close call there for Gareth and a very intelligent move to get out of the ring.

Stephy Auger: Again, this is NOT something I expected from him, FINALLY he got the dumb act down and started using his brain, for once.

Prichard paces himself on the outside, sticking his middle finger out to a fan that was shouting some stuff that wasn’t picked up by the camera, as Gall just throws his hands in the air inside the ring waiting for – something – to happen. But Gareth seems content with just staying on the outside regaining his breath as the referee continues counting him out. Finally, as the ref is about to count Gareth out, Gall has had enough and jumps straight at him, throwing himself in a Tope Suicida that brings both Gall and Gareth crashing against the rail.

Kris Cruise: High-risk maneuver from Gall here that I don’t know paid off all that well for him.

Stephy Auger: This is the kind of stupid shit I expected from Ne– Gareth, not from Gall.

Gareth is the first one back up, as it seems the earlier work he did on Gall’s neck, arm, and shoulder started to pay dividends after the crash. Gareth smiles and picks Gall by the head and throws him shoulder first against the steel steps. Difranco shrugs on the other side as Gareth warns him not to interfere with his work, just as he puts Gall’s hand on the steps and slams his boot on it, provoking some grim faces on the crowd. The referee continues the count, but Gareth breaks it by getting into the ring and rolling right out to continue his dissection of Gall.

Stephy Auger: See, the stupid shit costed Gall and now he’s playing right into Gareth’s game.

Gall tries to defend himself with his left hand throwing some punches to the mid-section of Gareth that, momentarily stop his attack and give Gall enough space to get back to his feet and plant a Pelé Kick on Gareth stunning the King of Failure and allowing Gall to regain some momentum in the match. Gareth tries to attack Gall with a clothesline, but Gall ducks and plants Gareth with a Powerslam on the floor followed by a running Punt Kick that seemingly puts the lights on Gareth’s head out.

Kris Cruise: Vicious kick from Gall that almost knocked Gall out cold!

Gall frantically tries to carry Gareth’s prone body back to the ring, but the damage on his right arm and shoulder seems to be taking its toll right now as it doesn’t allow him to move Gareth into the ring quickly enough to capitalize. Instead, he takes too long and Gareth is starting to regain some consciousness. It doesn’t matter to Gall as he quickly plants Gareth with the “Death by Knee” (V-Trigger) and pins him!

Kris Cruise: Gall managed to turn the tides and now is seconds away from victory.

Stephy Auger: NO! NO! NO! If there’s ANYTHING… Gareth should take from Neal is… that damn resiliency, GET UP!

ONE…

TWO…

THR…

NO!

Gareth, almost by instinct puts his boot on the bottom rope forcing the referee to stop the count, frustrating Zack Gall who argues with the referee.

Kris Cruise: Well, Stephy, it seems as if Gareth heard you and he’s still in the match.

Stephy Auger: No point in arguing, Gall… Gareth is just more experienced.

Gall slams his fist into the canvas as he continues arguing, while Gareth uses the time to come back to himself and start getting back on his feet using the ropes. Gall turns around and hits Gareth with a Buzzsaw Kick that almost knocked Gareth’s teeth out of his mouth as the King of Failure came crashing to the outside of the ring.

Zack Gall has all the momentum in the world as he waits for Gareth to get back on his feet and as he does, Gall slides with a Baseball Slide that gets sidestepped by Prichard on the outside and Gareth wails on his opponent with a series of forearm smashes to the face and neck; culminating with Prichard sending Gall shoulder first against the ring post.

Stephy Auger: HAHAHA! Great move by Gareth, as he continues to isolate that arm and shoulder of Gall.

Kris Cruise: It seems Gareth has more than a new attitude, he also seems to be better equipped to follow a game plan to a tee.

Gareth is the one with the momentum right now and he grabs Gall’s arm and twists it in ways an arm shouldn’t be allowed to be bent, then rushes Gall’s arm against the post repeatedly looking to inflict as much damage as possible. Gall is in danger and his manager knows it, by the look of his face. Prichard smirks and shouts at a fan at ringside, as he then goes and plants Gall with a Running Arched Big Boot that sends The Dragon crashing to the floor on the outside. Prichard takes his sweet ass time getting back to the ring, only to then get out and continue his assault on The Dragon.

Gall tries getting up by grabbing Gareth’s pants, but Prichard grabs Gall’s chin and puts it up, and shouts “Dydych chi ddim yn mynd i fy rhwystro!” at him as he plants Gall with a straight punch to the face.

Stephy Auger: I don’t know what he said… but I loved the punch!

Gareth takes Gall into the ring and stomps his shoulder area once more as Gall desperately tries to do anything to mitigate Prichard’s offense. Gareth creates separation from Gall and rushes into him, but Gall springs from the canvas and catches Gareth planting him with an Exploder Suplex out of nowhere. Gall grabs his shoulder as he falls but, for the moment, he can breathe.

Kris Cruise: And here is where Gareth’s work in the earlier portions of this match starts to pay off, as now Gall has a compromised arm that is clearly bothering him.

Stephy Auger: BEAUTIFUL WORK! Just beautiful!

Almost by sheer will, The Dragon gets back to his feet and starts kicking Gareth repeatedly as The King of Failure tries to get back to his feet too. Both Welsh wrestlers are mouthing stuff to each other in – well – Welsh, which makes it hard to understand for almost, anyone else in the arena or watching at home. They keep punching and kicking until, finally, Gareth catches Gall’s arm as he goes in for a punch… forces Gall’s palm to open and bites Gall’s finger making The Dragon reel back and allowing Gareth to get back on the attack.

Stephy Auger: ooooooh! I like this new aggressive side of this Welsh kid!

Prichard runs and hits Gall with a Sling Blade following the move with a kick and placing Gall right in position for the Rolling Cutter and the cover.

ONE…


TWO…


THRE….

NO!!!

Gareth can’t believe Gall survived the Rolling Cutter, but instead of arguing… he calmly gets back to his feet with a smile on his face. As Gall begins to get back on his feet, Gareth slaps him repeatedly on the head shouting “Dim ond aros i lawr!” at his opponent. This seems to light a fire in Gall’s eyes as he pulls the middle finger on Gareth and slaps him across the face, following the slap with a well-placed Flying Knee that drops Gareth to the mat.

Kris Cruise: Following the Rolling Cutter, I thought this was over… but Gall turned the tides once again!

Stephy Auger: He SHOULD’VE STAYED DOWN!

Gall has, seemingly, found his second wind as he starts landing combinations on Gareth, forcing Prichard towards the turnbuckle and proceeding to kick the living hell out of Gareth. The crowd is now fully behind Gall’s efforts as he continues his offensive; pulling Gareth out of the turnbuckle and hitting him with a Short Arm Clothesline. Following it with a Penalty Kick to the middle of Gareth’s chest. Gall knows this is not enough for the finish, but he signals with his right hand and points towards Gareth… as Prichard gets up, Gall grabs him by the wrist and locks the Ripcord in… Gall pushes Gareth away for the “Jaw Buster” (Ripcord Rolling Elbow), but Gareth ducks the hit, keeps his grip on Gall’s arm, and forces Gall to the mat with his arm extended.

Kris Cruise: That’s… That’s a KRUKENBERG! Stephy! That’s Owen’s finisher!?

Stephy Auger: Who cares? It’s effective here…

Gall flails on the mat, trying to get away from the hold or at least push himself towards the bottom rope, but Gareth forces him to stay in place putting most of his weight against Gall’s back and bending more and more on the arm that he meticulously kept targeting through the whole match. Gall seems to be trying everything to get out of the hold as Gareth opens Gall’s hand and bends his fingers for even more pain.

Stephy Auger: Snap his arm! Snap his arm! Snap his arm!

Kris Cruise: Gareth is relentless in the move, I’m not sure he’s even thinking about his opponent right now or if he’s just trying to send a message.

In the end, Gareth has too heavy of a hold on Gall and there’s no other option for The Dragon than to tap out… Gareth keeps the hold locked for a couple of seconds until the referee steps in and forces Gareth to let go of the hold declaring him the winner.

Stephy Auger: Boo! Boo, that ref! He should’ve let Gareth snap that arm!

Kris Cruise: A very aggressive side of Gareth, for sure.

J.A. Aldridge: Here’s your winner by Submission… Gareth… Prichard… Jr!

Gareth doesn’t let the referee raise his arm as he simply looks at Gall and walks out of the ring, brushing his shoulder against Difranco’s as he storms out not paying any attention to anyone else.

Kris Cruise: I don’t know about the ending of that match, considering the Tudor Rose might’ve worked just fine… why use Owen’s finisher?

Stephy Auger: Are you going to argue with him? Because I don’t think you will.

[FADE OUT]

[FGA Office]

We then have the lights dim. The beginning rumblings of ‘Unsainted’ start to play and the audience immediately boo the man instinctively. Before too long coming through the curtain is Seth Iser with a hardened scowl on his face. The beard is a little more disheveled as if he’s been through some hell and he’s wearing a hooded ring jacket but you have a full look on the cold scowl as everybody is booing him.

Kris Cruise: Here’s a man who was way out of line at the end of our first night, Stephy. Point blank, he screwed her out of the Undisputed Title and there isn’t a good reason to do such a thing!

Stephy Auger: There will never be a price as big as the one Izzy put on Iser’s friend, Moretti Kris! I don’t know if you noticed but ever since that incident he hasn’t been here! He hasn’t even been a manager! It ended that part of his career!

Kris Cruise: An eye for an eye makes the world blind, Stephy…but he’s a touch early for his match. He’s dressed to fight.

Stephy Auger: He’s got something to say, then.

The veteran continues making his way down to the ring ignoring the verbal insults from the crowd as there is a purpose and determination in both his eyes and his step. As he goes down the ramp he forgoes his usual slide under the ring and walks around it. The crowd over the barricade also throws their shade of verbal abuse but it’s almost as if Seth doesn’t hear them at the moment, a singular focus on what he feels like he has to do or say. And JA, the ring announcer who hasn’t gotten back in the ring yet glances at him but Seth motions for his microphone and you’re not telling a man that much taller and heavier then you in a wrestling setting ‘no’ as he enters the ring.

And after the music comes to an end he’s just standing there in the center of the ring amongst a sea of wrestling fans who want nothing more but to see him get walloped. They’re booing as he takes off the ring jacket and you get an even more clear look at his stern expression and the fact that time in Japan is getting him into yet another level of physical fitness even if he seems like he’s gone through hell in the process.

Seth Iser: Why…

He speaks that word low but full of gruff authority. Just even speaking one simple word is enough to incite the audience further it seems.

Seth Iser: That’s all I’ve heard from anyone associated with FGA since it happened. Since I dropped Izzy on her head in as swift of a fashion as I did. Why would I do such a thing to somebody…

He lowers his head slightly while wiping the sweat from his brow quietly. There’s even a slight grimace on his face as it seems like he’s remembering something.

Seth Iser: I’ll fight AMC here in the ring shortly…but I’ve requested some time. But don’t worry kid…you’ll get one more opportunity to see where you stand against the Greatest Mind in Professional Wrestling. And I’ll show you how much you still have to learn against me. But…I have to address the biggest issue…and that’s Izzy Anders.

He says that with an eerie level of calm to it but without any hint of the usual predatory air. It feels more like a man being honest and baring what’s going on rather then trying to push an agenda or message.

Seth Iser: For all the talk of ‘old Izzy’ or ‘new Izzy’...that’s arbitrary thinking. People change in time…time changes people. People…change people, even. We sure as hell aren’t the exact same person we were in our twenties. I’m living proof of that. But as I stated to Spencer, I’ll state it in front of the camera here where everybody including God O’ mighty himself could see it. I am not hiding from what I did. I did it to make sure she had full attention…on me.

There’s a frown curling on his lips as he says those words with a little more weight. He even steps forward slightly on the ring, the crowd no longer jeering their heads off but rather…listening intently.

Seth Iser: And I didn’t want to disrespect the title to make our issue about that. People know about the history…Vincent’s leg being broken and taking him out of the manager game and the string of hoops I put her through for the Pride TItle. What people don’t remember is something I said the moment after I became number one contender winning the Wild Card tournament.

He’s a little too calm as he states all of this and he’s even glancing around slightly with his eyes.

Seth Iser: I put a ticking time bomb out there pulling that stunt. It’s been…ticking ever so slowly for a year and half. But damn it…being World Champion meant doing that…I’d do it again because you earn so few honest-to-God chances to be THE number one wrestler for a company like this one. Ten year anniversary and I’m one of the few that has ‘World Champion’ attached to his name here. Not a soul can take that away from me. That’s the reward…but now…I know what the price is.

He contorts himself to a frown as he just takes a brief second to consider his words just a little bit further.

Seth Iser: When you’re in my position…I’ll point blank it, you don’t have the luxury of a ton of time in this industry. You start feeling the little stressors of being on that plane ride just a little more. You start to feel every single time you’ve been slammed on this canvas for twenty years. And you remember every injury along the way…and how it takes just a little bit longer to recuperate from them. And how…it gets a little more frequent when everything accumulates. That’s the reality of being an old man in a young person’s game sometimes. Time is your biggest enemy.

You can see his face calmly explain all of this, but he glances at the hard camera with cold eyes.

Seth Iser: You, Izzy…you’re the time bomb.

There’s a few audible gasps from the crowd but Seth isn’t picking up any base in his tone. It’s staying…low.

Seth Iser: You’re the timebomb that could detonate at any time. It could be a couple years down the line. But if it were…Izzy, I know for a damn fact what’d happen then. I wouldn’t be able to survive the price. It’d…be my end. The last match I’d ever wrestle. You’d do everything in your power to not only finally beat me…but end me. And with everything we’ve already done to another…the opportunities I cost you, the future matches you cost me with the hell you put me through in Two Falls of Honor…it’d be inevitable. And only a fool would think otherwise. You’d come for me eventually for one reason or another and it’d reach this point no matter what we’d do. We’re…just wired a certain way to be like that.

He shakes his head before even letting out a sigh. There’s a calmness still in his voice but the gaze has left the hard camera in the middle of his recent talking.

Seth Iser: Hell Izzy…I’m the embodiment of a price you’ve long since forgotten to pay for some of the things you’ve done in this company. Heroes Never Die to how you tormented John Carmichael. We’re both tainted…and meant to be damned for the sins we’ve done. And for the last sin…we have to commit to end this. That’s embedded into the DNA of this company and the sport itself. In that regard and in that line of actual thinking…I know I’m the last of my kind.

He pauses for a moment while he’s contemplating his words.

Seth Iser: For as long as this company has run, I’m the last of an era and mindframe that came in before this company even existed. And the type of thing someone of our ilk wants the most toward the end…is to dictate the terms of how we go out. With that timebomb…still ringing, a price I’ve yet to pay, I can’t let you control that. You had…that kind of control. And only you in this company could do that to someone like me…who has seen everything. Not even Owen could…for he’s the one still paying the price dealing with me…not the other way around. Even in his success…he has to be compared to what I’ve done. But you? For what has to be done for your definition of the code…well, you’re the closest thing to me in this entire company in that regard. I think I understand…full well what you’re thinking.

He’s got a stoic frown plastered on his face as he just pauses there, listening to the crowd for a brief second knowing he has their full attention.

Seth Iser: I almost bet you feel like you have to end me now. And that’s what I want. For it to come right now. For that timebomb to finally…detonate. To be able to pay that price…however steep it might be for the rest of my career while I’m in a position to still be able to pay it. Because…right now, I might survive it. Winning or losing…almost arbitrary. Sure, someone gets their hand raised but it’s surviving the price you have to pay. And I had to provoke her to the point where she had to come after me with that. It was going to happen eventually. I’d rather it be now...because I refuse to have that ticking any longer. Nor do I refuse to run from what I did to her both then…and now.

The stoic frown turns into pure grit and determination as he’s gritting teeth as he’s continuing to articulate this point.

Seth Iser: We are now going to the United Kingdom coming up…for a major tour there. That was one of the first places my name really grew all those years ago. Before I ever won a world title even…I guarantee our current Undisputed Champion might have attended a few events with me at the marquee all over. But there was a match that happened the same night I won the Wild Card Tournament…

You can see his face lower as he’s about to mention it.

Seth Iser: It was Savannah Taylor, a Heroes Never Die compatriark, and Jimmy Page. It stuck with me. And I remember the brutality of that well. Just as my body remembers the brutality Izzy and I put each other through in Two Falls of Honor. We’re beyond any concept of the word honor for what we’ve done to each other. It…can’t go on any longer between us. The price for both of us…has to be paid. At the peak of the United Kingdom tour…on pay per view. I have one challenge to make to where we both can get what we might want…one way or another. Izzy Anders…versus Seth Iser. In the only match…that can settle this issue for good or I die trying.

There are some fans that know what he’s hinting at but for the rest of them he just glares at the camera.

Seth Iser: Chivalry…is…Dead.

There isn’t a cheer for the violent proposition Iser brought forward. There’s absolute shock as Iser just puts down the microphone before he goes to take a seat in the corner to await his opponent. Even the commentators are stunned by what Iser wants, just stewing it in silence and almost awe as we fade from that view for a moment.

Stephy Auger: … Seth, you want what? WHAT!?

Kris Cruise: … I couldn’t believe my ears, either, Stephy.

Stephy Auger: Seth, you know that I would never doubt you a day in my life. But WHAT!? Have you lost your mind!? You want that deranged lunatic in THAT match!?

​​Kris Cruise: He’s willing to pay the price. Whether he survives, who knows.

"I Bring the Darkness (End of Days)" by Jim Johnston featuring Tommy Vext begins to play as the aisle way fills up with smoke. AMC rises up from the smoke in full face paint and is trying not to cough from all the smoke.

”Who do you think you are?
You’ve now gone much to far!”

AMC steps through the smoke and looks around at the crowd she then slowly walks toward the ring basically strutting with a smirk as she fist bumps some of the fans

J.A. Aldridge: His opponent, hailing from Beverly Hills, California! Weighing in at 120 pounds, she is Ashley Marie Chase… A! M! C!

”I bring the darkness!
I am the thunder!
I come from HELL
And I’ll pull you under!”

AMC walk up the steps, taking a moment to wipe her feet on the apron before getting into the ring. AMC then drops to her knees in the middle of the ring and stretches out her arms and looks out toward the crowd.

Seth Iser vs. AMC

AMC immediately pops back to her feet, runs over and sends Iser crumbling to the mat with a front dropkick to the knee.

Kris Cruise: AMC wasted no time going right after Iser!

Stephy Auger: What a cheap shot artist.

Iser turns over and gets up on all fours as AMC hits the ropes. The crowd explodes with cheers when AMC returns off the rebound, leaps up and drives Iser face-first into the mat with a Curb Stomp!

Kris Cruise: The Full Facial!

Stephy Auger: GAH!

Kris Cruise: AMC just hit Iser with the Full Facial! She’s got him beat!

AMC makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

NO!

The crowd gasps, then boos when Iser gets his shoulder up at the last second.

Stephy Auger: Phew, thank God!

​​Kris Cruise: It doesn’t get much close than that.

AMC pleads with the ref that it was a three count. But the official stands his ground and lets her know that it was only a two count. Frustrated, AMC gets back to her feet and starts pacing the ring. She then comes to a stop once she sees Iser trying to pick himself up off the floor. The crowd cheers as she runs back across the ring, jumps up and goes to bring him back down with another Full Facial. This time, Iser’s able to catch AMC on the way down across his shoulders as he stands back up. Before Iser can slam AMC down, she catches him with multiple elbows to the side of the head. After AMC slips down from behind, she connects with a dropkick to the face of the head that sends Iser staggering forward. When Iser turns around, AMC runs across the ring and connects with a clothesline, sending Iser over the top rope!

Kris Cruise: Iser’s been sent to the floor!

Stephy Auger: Hold on, Cruise!

Instead of crashing to the floor, Iser lands safely on his feet before quickly reaching back in and yanking AMC down to the mat. Iser drags AMc to the outside before throwing her down across ringside with a release belly to belly suplex.

Stephy Auger: That’ll turn the tide!

The crowd boos as Iser walks over, picks up AMC and throws her down another section of the ringside area with a second release belly to belly.

Kris Cruise: Iser’s just ragdolling AMC!

Stephy Auger: Ashley Sands is too busy preparing for her 15 Championship match. Antoinette has left her in the dust. She’s got no one to save her now.

Kris Cruise: Stop it, Stephy.

AMC holds her lower back while she howls out in pain. Iser stalks AMC before reaching down, picking AMC up and ramming her back-first against the guardrail. He then grabs a hold of AMC and rolls her back inside before rolling himself back in. From there, Iser moves the action into the corner. Wrestling’s Greatest Mind unloads on AMC with a series of back elbow strikes, followed by a series of knee strikes, followed by a series of shoulder thrusts. He then grabs a hold of AMC and brings her out of the corner with a vertical suplex before making the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
AMC gets the shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: AMC got her shoulder up in time, but Iser is still firmly in control.

Stephy Auger: I bet she’s regretting jumping Seth at the start of the match now.

AMC gets whipped hard into the corner. She then staggers out of the corner until Iser scoops her up and brings her down with a pendulum backbreaker. He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
AMC gets the shoulder up.

Iser picks up AMC before quickly taking control of her back. He tries for a release German Suplex, but AMC blocks by hooking her right leg around his. Iser goes to muscle her up for another German. AMC blocks it again. AMC then catches Iser with two back elbow strikes to the face. Once the rear waistlock is broken, AMC hits the ropes. When she returns, Iser scoops her up off the rebound, turns, takes a few steps back and drops her across the top rope with a Stun Gun!

Kris Cruise: Did you see how AMC’s head just snapped back like that!?

Stephy Auger: That has to put her away.

The boos continue as Iser makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
AMC gets her foot on the bottom rope.

Iser takes AMC and whips her hard into the corner. AMC arches her back upon impact. Iser then lines her up before charging into the corner. The crowd cheers when AMC turns him around with a boot to the face.

Kris Cruise: AMC’s got her opening!

Stephy Auger: Quick, Seth! Shake it off! She’s going to the top!

AMC steps out to the apron, climbs to the top turnbuckle, leaps off and drives him down with a diving bulldog! She makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Iser kicks out.

Iser reverses an irish whip, sending AMC into the ropes. AMC tries to slide through Iser’s legs, but he reaches down just in time and grabs two handfuls of hair. AMC is slowly pulled back to her feet until she swats Iser’s hands off her. The crowd cheers when she follows up with the Chase-Tizer (hard smack across the face). After a boot to the midsection doubles Iser over, AMC pulls him into a standing headscissors. She hooks his arms and positions him for the Name Dropper (Pedigree), but Iser’s able to break free of the underhooks and counter with a back body drop.

Kris Cruise: She almost got him, Stephy.

With AMC down, Iser turns and hits the ropes. He returns off the rebound with a jumping knee drop. He misses! The crowd boos when AMC rolls out of the way just in time.

Kris Cruise: AMC’s got another opening! Can she take advantage?

Iser tries to get back to his feet, but AMC comes up from behind and returns him to the mat with a chop block. She then lifts up the leg before trying to apply a figure four. But before she can complete her spin around the leg, Iser uses his free leg to shove AMC off of him and into the corner. AMC steps back out to the apron and scales the turnbuckles while Iser gets back to his feet. Iser turns around and does a double take when AMC leaps off with a high crossbody!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Iser kicks out.

Kris Cruise: Another nearfall for the former 15 Champion.

Stephy Auger: C’mon, Seth! Get up!

Iser reverses another irish whip. He goes to catch AMC off the rebound with a clothesline, but she ducks and counters with a Float over DDT! The cheers continue as she makes the cover.

Kris Cruise: What a counter by Chase! This could be up!

Stephy Auger: Get that shoulder up!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
Iser kicks out.

Kris Cruise: Chase was so close! Iser eliminated Chase from the Wild Card Lottery tournament way back in 2020. She hasn’t forgotten that Quarterfinals lost, Stephy. This is her chance to finally get some payback on Wrestling’s Greatest Mind.

AMC takes Iser and moves the action into the corner. She catches Iser with repeated chest kicks before whipping him into the far corner. AMC charges across the ring to attack, but she runs right into a European Uppercut from Iser. He then slams her face-first onto the top turnbuckle before taking control of her back. Seconds later, AMC gets launched out of the corner with a release German Suplex! NO! AMC somehow rotates and lands on her feet! The crowd cheers as she turns and takes off into the ropes. When AMC returns, the cheers turn to boos when Iser slams her down with the Pillar of Truth (Bossman Slam)! He makes the cover.

Kris Cruise: AMC was about to make another comeback before Iser cut her off.

Stephy Auger: Awwww, that’s too bad!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
AMC gets the shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Only two!

Stephy Auger: Hmph!

AMC gets sent for the ride. When AMC returns, Iser lifts her up, turns and throws her down with a spinebuster! He rolls across AMC and hooks the leg.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
AMC gets the shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: AMC won’t stay down!

Stephy Auger: Yeah, be cause she doesn’t know any better.

Iser picks up AMC and sets up for the Icebreaker (Irish Curse)! AMC fights out of it with multiple elbows to the side of the head before catching him with the Kick of Doom (superkick)! Iser remains dazed while AMC turns and hits the ropes. AMC returns off the rebound before throwing out the Walk of Fame (spear)! NO! Iser counters with a Wrestling II Knee Lift. The boos continue as Iser doubles her over with a boot to the midsection before planting her with the Deprivation DDT (Jake Roberts styled DDT)! He makes the cover.

Stephy Auger: That’ll put the light outs!

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd erupts with boos as “Psychosocial” blares throughout the arena.

J.A. Aldridge: Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this bout… SETH ISER!

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

Kris Cruise: Seth Iser picks up another win over AMC here tonight.

Stephy Auger: AMC put up a fight. I’ll give her that. She made it interesting. But I never had a doubt that Iser wasn’t going to win here tonight.

Kris Cruise: But you do have doubts in him surviving Chivalry is Dead against Izzy Anders.

Stephy Auger: You know that woman. You know what she’s capable of. Seth is Wrestling’s Greatest Mind, so maybe he knows something that we don’t. Maybe he’s playing 4-D Chess here. I just have my concerns.

Kris Cruise: Well, it will be interesting to see if and when The Mindkiller accepts the challenge of Chivalry is Dead. It would only be the fifth match in FGA’s history. We’ve had the… I wouldn’t call it pleasure, but we’ve had the opportunity to call pretty much all of those matches. I think we can both agree that whether you’re the winner or the loser, no one leaves the same.

[FGA Office]

Backstage at the Boardwalk Hall, Amanda Johnson has a monumental task in front of her. Trying not to get physically pie-faced or shoved off-camera by Caroline Dallins. Luckily, the positioning of the FGA 15 Champion between the two of them may actually mitigate that to whatever degree. Sparrow’s tights have been designed near the bottoms, crimson-on-gold flames prettied up. While his right kickpad reads ‘KICK’, the left reads ‘HASHIRA’, both in succinct, red block font. With white cap on head, Sparrow has his arms crossed over his chest. Caroline’s dressed up similar to her client, white dress suit with crimson buttons, and the FGA 15 championship belt folded under arm.

Amanda gives a wary eye on Caroline before she clears her throat.

Amanda Johnson: Sparrow, Ms. Dallins. We’ve left the fallout of the All-Star Showdown X and tonight we’re looking towards the FGA 10th Anniversary Show where you defend the FGA 15, once again squaring off against Ash Sands. Do you feel like you can successfully add one more notch to your championship, or will Ash have your number this time around?

The interviewer seems shocked that she actually got to get through a question this time around. Caroline scoffs and pulls Amanda’s wrist so she can hold the microphone towards her. The older wrestler can seen mouthing ‘--before you hurt yourself’. She then speaks up.

Caroline Dallins: Before we even get to that, can we talk about this six man matchup tonight? This match tonight is being billed as the ‘Top Six of 2021’. The top six wrestlers that FGA can offer, all lined up and locked in. Lowri Moss? Well, our prestigious and current FGA Undisputed champion. Casually, Lowri wins another Gold Rush Rumble. Owen Gonsalves, the current reigning United States champion who has been defending that title up and down, left and right, with Baby Bird here being one of his many...pitstops. Nina Stokes? Stokes. Mariah Stokes.

Sparrow: How many times are you gonna run that bit?

Caroline snorts.

Caroline Dallins: Until it turns into dust. Anyway, Nina Stokes with one of the most impressive United States championship reigns. From a certain point of view? Owen effectively had to take the damn thing on the road to make his look half as good as Nina’s. Ace Voltage? A historic Legacy championship reign, and dethroning Tyler Storm. Cordelia? Literally combined the International Heavyweight and World championships to become Undisputed champion. The Great Unifier. The Truth Teller. It’s a star-studded main event but--

Sparrow & Amanda: You forgot Fuji.

The manager in question eyes the two of them in disdain. The side of her lip curls before she shrugs gently.

Caroline Dallins: Fine. Two big time dream matches she won. One against Lowri that all but...guarantees that Fuji can come calling for a shot at that Undisputed championship when she feels like it. Must be nice, but hey that’s what I’d do. Oh and helping her part in the Chandler Scott ‘Hello, Goodbye’ tour. Hate to see it. My point is that between some awards won, being a double champion in 2021, breaking Ace’s reign, living in a closet as Logan’s boogeyman and altogether being this obscene threat in the Gold Rush Rumble, why aren’t you in this six man...This, Top Six of 2021? I guess unless you’re happy just being unlucky number 7.

Sparrow: Actually I am!

The face that Caroline Dallins pulls is absolutely priceless. A lovely mix of disbelief and disgust makes Amanda Johnson fight to crack up. Without any prompting whatsoever she leans the microphone under the FGA 15 champion’s chin so he can be heard clearly. However...

Caroline Dallins: What?

Sparrow: I am happy with the idea of being maybe number seven. Maybe. Because bana, that leaves room for improvement, ain’t? I can’t say for certain if I would ever beat anyone--exceptAce-- in tonight’s main event, or had the career years that they had. I had mine. I joined a prestigious group of double champions, three of which are featured in the six man tag. I performed well beyond expectations of the Gold Rush Rumble, even if I ain’t win it. See, I ain’t worried about being one of the best in 2021. If anything, It’s just an incentive to be the best in 2022. In fact, forget the best, forget your G.O.A.T.s, I’m trying to be the B.I.R.D.

Caroline & Amanda: What?

Sparrow: Best In-Ring Definitively.

Sparrow gives...The most cheesy thumbs up ever. Big grin, shoulders up, indeed fingers popping out a second later in Amanda and Caroline’s direction. The interviewer is willing to humor this at least.

Amanda Johnson: Hey that’s pretty--

Caroline Dallins: I hate everything you choose to be. I want you to know that.

Sparrow: Uh-huh. I ain’t stressed about it. I...Am more interested in running it back with one of my favorite opponents of 2021, Ashley Sands. Let me and her do it one more time--just one more time for these fans here in Atlantic City. Just one more time, watch as we dazzle in ways ain’t been thought of in the last ten years. Ten years, strong, Frontier Grappling Arts, FGA. Because it could only be art when me and Ash step foot in that ring. I will admit a bit of selfishness though, because I do have a goal in mind. Another 2022 goal. Now you know me and goals never quite pan out. Maybe...Maybe this time though. See I already have one defense of this FGA 15 championship if I ain’t mistaken. While I didn’t walk out with both titles, I do have one...And that’s one defense of four down. Tonight if I can walk away from Ash? That’s two...And you know what happens when I hit four.

Caroline’s eyebrow arches delicately. The thinnest smirk plays upon her lips, as if the White Hat of FGA has said precisely what she wants to hear. The smile is very disconcerting, as Amanda Johnson catches it and looks a bit bothered.

Caroline Dallins: I see, Baby Bird. You want the United States championship huh. That the big end goal? Wanting to see where you stack up to Gonsalves post-Emeryville? Something to prove perhaps? Well, I’ll talk to the powers that be, get some people on the horn, see if we can’t get you rolling on that eventuality. Mmmm, look at you actually reaching for goals and shit. Your big sister is so proud.

Sparrow: Don’t push it.

Amanda glances between the two of them.

Amanda Johnson: Are...Are you two actually brother and sis--

Killer C cuts that shit out right then and there with an interruption.

Caroline Dallins: Anyway, reaching for those goals continues tonight with Miss Sands. Time’s a-wastin’. Your match is next. Let’s not keep her waiting, hm? You have some new tricks to show, and I’d really like you to not flop with the first outing of me by your side, ‘mmkay?

With a baleful glance, the West Indian Whirlwind nods. Caroline motions him to the left and Sparrow goes first. She follows after, the FGA 15 championship in tow as all Amanda can do is watch on.

[FGA Office]

FGA 15 CHAMPIONSHIP
Sparrow vs. Ashley Sands

The opening guitar riff of "Warrior" by Skarlett Riot begins to play over the sound system seconds before the Hybrid Champion Ashley Sands walks out onto the stage. Pointing out to the fans all over the arena, Sands walks down to the ring. Once she gets down to ringside, and gets on the apron before climbing the turnbuckle from the outside. She nimbly climbs the turnbuckle from the outside to perch atop the top rope as she sits on her knees.

J.A. Aldridge: Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest, scheduled for one fall with a 15 minute time limit, is for the FGA 15 Championship! Introducing first, the challenger! Hailing from Bradley Beach, New Jersey... ASHLEY SANDS!

With her name being announced, Ashley holds both of her arms up as she lays back on the turnbuckle post behind her. Flashing from cameras going off all around her, Sands rolls forwards to flip down into the ring and land on her feet.

“Oh give the drummer some, yeah yeah! (Yah!)
Oh give the drummer some, yeah yeah! (Uh!)
Oh give the drummer some, yeah yeah! (Rah!)
Oh give the drummer some, yeah yeah! (Drop it.)"

From the entrance to the ring, Sparrow appears through the curtain flanked by manager Caroline Dallins. On her shoulder rests his championship. The West Indian Whirlwind begins high-fiving fans on his way down the ramp, all the while Caroline stresses important points to her client. He gets to the outside of the ring as “Gold Watch” continues playing before he jumps and lands on the apron. Caroline simply takes the stairs.

A second jump sees The West Indian Whirlwind clear the ring ropes before throwing his hat into the audience. With a nod from his manager, Sparrow then takes off for the farthest side of the ring. He springs onto the second rope, executing a backflip and lands on his feet in the middle of the squared circle. He does a sliding motion on his heel before turning and striking a Rock Lee pose to the cheers of the crowd. Meanwhile, Caroline lifts Sparrow’s championship overhead behind him.

J.A. Aldridge: Her opponent, being accompanied to the ring by Caroline Dallins. Weighing in at 205 pounds! He is the reigning... defending... FGA 15 Champion! He is "The West Indian Whirlwind"... SPARROW!

“Got my, gold watch and my, gold chain,
With my, fancy car and my diamond ring!
With my fancy broad and she foreign!
So its, no words and its, no slang, and I'm no trick and I'm no lame.
Its just so slick that she's so game, and its...
Yea, yea she love it over here. Its just yea, yea she love it over here!”

Sparrow leans up against his corner, talking a few seconds with his manager before looking out to the crowd. Caroline finishes going over some last minute points she has to make and he nods, agreeing...For the most part. After some discourse, she heads out of the ring but not before handing the title over to the ref.

The match starts off with both grapplers shaking hands before locking up. Sands quickly win the battle and places Sparrow in a side headlock before getting shoved off into the ropes. Sands rebounds off the ropes before getting knocked down with a standing shoulder block. Sparrow then turns and hits the ropes. He comes back he sees Sands rolling over into the prone position. So he skips over her before continuing to run the ropes. When Sparrow comes back, Sands pops back to her feet and goes for a hip toss. Sparrow counters by stepping through it and going for a hip toss of his own. Sands counters his counters by stepping through it and going for a hip toss of her own. The crowd gasps after Sparrow steps through it and goes to hip toss Sands over the top rope! Sands blocks the move. Sparrow tries to muscle her up for another hip toss to the outside. Again, Sands blocks the move. So Sparrow connects with a slap to the midsection, doubling her over. He then drapes his left leg across the back of Sands’ neck and executes a back flip. As soon as Sparrow lands on his feet, Sands knocks him down with a spinning leg sweep to the back of the leg. Sands returns to her feet and motions for an elbow drop, but she stops when Sparrow wisely rolls out to the apron.

Kris Cruise: Shades of their firs match, Stephy.

Stephy Auger: I'm pretty sure that entire sequence was the exact same as their first match, move for move. For Sands' sake, she better hope that the outcome isn't the same.

Sparrow pulls himself up using the ropes and nods towards Sands before carefully stepping back in through the ropes. Both grapplers circle the ring before locking up. This time, Sparrow gains the advantage with a side headlock. The 15 Champion keeps the hold applied before performing a standing switch and transitioning into a hammerlock from behind. Sands then reaches back with her free arm and goes to escape with a jumping snapmare takeover. However, Sparrow lands on his feet before taking off into the ropes. When Sparrow returns, Sands tries to trip him down with a spinning front leg sweep. But Sparrow smoothly front flips over the leg sweep, lands on his feet and continues to run the ropes. Sands waits for Sparrow to return and leapfrogs over him when he comes back. The champion continues to run the ropes. When Sparrow returns, Sands crouches down and rolls back for a grounded monkey flip. Once again, Sparrow escapes by cartwheeling out of the way. Sands returns to her feet, turns around and gets knocked off her feet with a jumping side kick.

Kris Cruise: Sparrow got the better of that exchange that time. He goes for the cover.

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

Sparrow sets up for an irish whip, but Sands reverses and follows him across the ring. Sands goes for a running shoulderblock, but Sparrow hoists himself up and counters with a Ropehung Arm-Trap Can Opener!

Kris Cruise: Sparrow took a page right out of Caroline Dallins' book.

Stephy Auger: Yeah and she couldn't look at happier!

Kris Cruise: Caroline Dallins can actually smile? Hmm, I've only seen her scowl and rudely cut people off.

Stephy Auger: Wait until she hears what you said about her.

Ref: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR!

Sparrow lets go. Sands staggers away from the corner while she favors her arm. When she turns around, she does a double take as Sparrow leaps off the top. The crowd cheers as Sands gets knocked down with a missile dropkick. Sands' momentum sends her rolling underneath the bottom rope before hitting the floor.

Kris Cruise: That huge dropkick just sent Sands to the outside.

Stephy Auger: Look at Caroline. She's telling Sparrow not to start playing to these idiots in the crowd. She wants him to stay on top of Sands.

Sands reaches up and grabs the edge of the apron. As soon as she picks herself up, Sparrow runs over from an angle, leaps over the top rope and knocks her down with a suicide dropkick!

Stephy Auger: ... and he does! It looks like Tweety Bird is finally learning!

Kris Cruise: Another huge dropkick from The West Indian Whirlwind!

Sparrow picks up Sands and rolls her back inside before rolling back in for the cover.

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

Sparrow moves Sands into the corner before unleashing a series of corner chest kicks. After Sands is whipped into the far corner, Sparrow runs across the ring to attack. Sands ducks and dumps him over the top rope, but Sparrow's able to land safely on the apron before knocking Sands out of the corner with a rope-assisted gamengiri. Sands tries to shake out the cobwebs. Once she does, she turns around and gets dropped with a springboard crossbody! NO! Sands counters with a dropkick in mid air!

Kris Cruise: Ashley Sands with the anti air on that high crossbody!

Stephy Auger:

Instead of going for the cover, Sands hits the ropes. When she returns, she hits the Wind Whisper (Rolling Senton)! She makes the cover.

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

Kris Cruise: Good strategy to target those ribs again after that dropkick counter. Sparrow, though, gets the shoulder up in time.

Stephy Auger: Let's see if Sands can fair better than AMC did when she finally got control of the match.

Sparrow gets sent for the ride. When he returns, Sands drops him down to the prone position with a front spinning leg sweep before following up with a standing moonsault across the back. The cheers continue as Sands pulls him over onto his back before heading into the corner, scaling the turnbuckles and coming off the top with a moonsault! She hooks the leg.

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

Kris Cruise: Another close call for the champion. Ashley Sands isn't showboating or playing to the crowd. She's staying focused and following up on all her attacks.

Stephy Auger: She desperately wants to become a champion again, Cruise.

Sands takes Sparrow and whips him into the corner before catching him with a Wind Kick (Running boot kick into corner)! The cheers continue as Sands takes Sparrow, delivers an irish whip, follows him across the ring and connects with another Wind Kick. After sending Sands back into the previous corner with an irish whip and connecting with a third Wind Kick, Sands brings him down with a Tornado DDT! She makes the cover.

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

Sparrow gets his shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: That was close, Stephy.

Stephy Auger: I don't know if Sparrow knows where he is or if that was purely on instinct.

Sands takes Sparrow and drives him down with a reverse side russian leg sweep. After pushing him over to his back, Sands steps out to the apron before scaling the turnbuckles.

Kris Cruise: Sands is looking to put Sparrow away here! She could be thinking Sunset!

Stephy Auger:

Sands makes it to the top, flips off for the Sunset (Swanton Bomb) and gets counters when she lands across Sparrow's knees.

Stephy Auger: He got the knees up!

Sands slowly turns over onto a knee. She continues to favor her back until Sparrow heads over and clocks her with a Shining axe kick on an opponent crouched!

Kris Cruise: Good Lord, what a kick!

Stephy Auger: Love TKO! That's another page out of Killer C's book!

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

Sparrow takes Sands, delivers an irish whip, follows her into the corner and connects with a step-up enzuigiri. The 15 Champion then goes for a Tornado DDT, but Sands pushes him off. Sparrow runs back over towards the corner to attack, but Sands runs out of the corner and cuts him off with Into Dust (Codebreaker)! The cheers continue as she makes the cover.

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

Sparrow gets the shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Another nearfall for Sands. This one has been back and forth.

Stephy Auger: I feel like this is anyone's match.

Sparrow takes Sands and goes for a vertical suplex. The crowd cheers when Sands slips down from behind and locks him in a Sleeper.

Kris Cruise: Sleeper Hold! She's got it locked in!

Stephy Auger: Look at where Sparrow is, too!

Sparrow reaches out to his right, but he's not near the ropes. He reaches out to his left. But he can't reach the ropes that way, either. Sparrow tries to throw Sands off his back. Sands counters by jumping up and wrapping her legs around his waist.

Kris Cruise: Sands has the bodyscissors on now, too!

Sparrow starts to panic. He then runs backwards and squashes Sands into the turnbuckles. Sparrow turns around, takes Sands and goes for an irish whip. Sands reverses! Sands runs across the ring to attack, but a boot to the face turns her around. Sparrow quickly takes control of Sands' back before throwing her into the turnbuckles with a German Suplex! He then sits Sands on the top turnbuckle facing away from the ring before throwing her down with the Izuna Drop (Spider Suplex)! Sparrow pulls himself back up, stands up on the top turnbuckle, turns, jumps off and crushes Sands with The Notorious K.I.C.K. II (Top Rope Double Foot Stomp)! He makes the cover.

ONE!
.
.
TWO!
.
.
THREE!

The crowd explodes with cheers as "Gold Watch" blasts over the PA.

J.A. Aldridge: Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this bout... aaaaaand STIIILLLLL FGA 15 Champion, SPARROW!

The cheers continue as the ref raises Sparrow's arm in victory. Caroline keeps the 15 Championship folded under her left arm while she uses her right to raise Sparrow's other arm.

Kris Cruise: Sparrow's done it! He's retained his championship! That's now two defenses in the book for Sparrow.

Stephy Auger: You know what he's after, too, Cruise. He's after that United States Championship and, specifically, Owen Gonsalves.

Kris Cruise: Sparrow isn't the only one eyeing that champion of Owen's. But Sparrow still got two more defenses, plus a decision to make, if he wants Owen one on one for the US Championship. Who will be next tot ry and knock off Sparrow and take that 15 Championship? You'll have to stay tuned.

[FADE OUT]

[FGA Office]

Kris Cruise: Even though I do not condone his actions fro All-Star Showdown X, I'm still professional enough to congratulate John Carmichael on his Hall of Fame Induction.

Stephy Auger: John Carmichael is the 'one member of the 2021 class. Just looking back at this man's career, he's a former Undisputed Champion. He's a former two-time Pride Champion, which is a record that he holds with a couple of people. He won the 2017 Gold Rush Rumble. Speaking of the Rumble, no one has appeared in more Rumbles than him. No one has eliminated more people overall than him. No one has wrestled more matches than him. The biggest one of all, Cruise, is that as of All-Star Showdown X, no one has won more matches than him.

Kris Cruise: That's right. The magic number is 65. That's the amount of wins Carmichael has throughout his FGA career. Coincidentally, he broke that record at All-Star Showdown X by defeating the man who was the previous record holder, Chandler Scott.

Stephy Auger: I know that fact just makes it that much more sweeter for Carmichael.

Every single pair of eyes inside Boardwalk Hall are focusing on the ring which stands in the centre of the building, except it is not the ring which they are focusing on

Instead, standing in the centre of the ring at the centre of Boardwalk Hall is a man wearing a crisp, white shirt underneath a black leather jacket with a black pair of jeans and a pair of black Converse sneakers, and that person is patiently waiting for the crowd to get the boos out of their system because, as long as he’s the guy with the microphone, they’re going to listen whether they like it or not.

John Carmichael: So, about the conquering hero Chandler Scott…

Boos cascade from the stands towards the ring with the force of a tsunami, and yet Carmichael stands there as if he’s been hit with the gust of wind that comes when a moth bats its wing near his face, and his facial expression is one of boredom at how that’s the best that the crowd can muster.

John Carmichael: Did I not say that your hero Chandler Scott’s time had passed? Did I not say that people within and without this company’s inner workings needed to stop enabling him? And, stop me if I’m wrong here, did I not say that I would prove once and for all that for all of his promotion, Chandler Scott is not the dominant force for good that you have convinced yourselves he might be? Because the last I checked, not only is waltzing to the front of the line and demanding matches other people work for not something which exists on the “good” spectrum…but dominating? You know only one person dominated that match.

Carmichael tilts the microphone to one side, knowing full well that another volley of boos is heading his way, so he’ll let the crowd shout themselves that little bit hoarser while saying or doing nothing of merit.

John Carmichael: Really? You want to argue that point? Okay, simple question: who won? I did. Who kept your conquering hero in the starting blocks for a large chunk of the match? I did. Who had the know-how to see when Chandler would try for his big finish and counter that in a way that left him defenseless? I did. And, because I’m feeling so generous tonight, let me throw in one teeny tiny bonus question: With that victory, who became the record holder for the most victories in the history of this company? I did

Holding his arms out wide, Carmichael mockingly does a full rotation in the centre of the ring to mark his achievement - and the fact that nobody is exactly in a position to disagree with this fact, which makes it all the sweeter

Stephy Auger: These morons can boo all they want, but he’s right.

John Carmichael: More than anything else, that says it all, doesn’t it? For years, years, you have all been told who the “DNA” of this company is, just like everybody in the back has had that held over their heads as a measuring stick that they can’t quite reach. But the last time I set foot inside this ring in anger - and, please, don’t take that phrase literally - I proved that the supposed “DNA” of this company clearly doesn’t have a backbone and never did. So, in order to celebrate my feat, I think it is more than fitting to begin referring to me as the backbone of this company because the evidence is right there for you to see, but if you like you can just boo like some clueless savages because that’s what you’ve been told to do.

Yet again the boos rain from the stands, yet Carmichael stands in the ring with his arms folded with the expression of somebody who is done with this drek.

John Carmichael: Yeah, I told you that doesn’t do anything, other than let me split up what I want to say in easily-digestible chunks, but you do you…

The roll of Carmichael’s eyes is such that it may not be visible from the cheap seats, but it sure as hell can be felt.

John Carmichael: But there’s more to life than coming out here and poking a few easily-riled bears…gophers…some harmless rodent which thinks it’s a bear, because tonight is the night where we look back at this company’s ten years of existence, from a nickel and dime outfit run on a shoestring budget hoping they could break even on DVD sales to where we are now.

A beat.

John Carmichael: What, you were expecting me to give some low-hanging fruit both barrels of a shotgun or something? Please, leave that weak sauce to someone trying to get noticed in spite working the opening match, see how far that gets them…

The wry, knowing smirk on Carmichael’s face says he’s in on his own joke.

John Carmichael: Just think of those ten years, everyone who has come and gone, everyone who has won and lost, champions who have been victorious and been defeated - the list is a lot longer than anyone can consider, and there’s a reason for that: because at some point every last person on that list was your designated hero, until you were told that the new, shiny plaything was now your hero who you should invest all your attention into, no questions asked other than your PayPal credentials. I could probably read out a list of people who I’ve faced since I got here that have long gone, but I don’t have the time or inclination to read out a long list of names.

A beat, followed by a smirk.

John Carmichael: But here’s a couple. You remember this guy by the name of Evan Envi? Sure you do, he was all over this place like flies on you-know-what for a while, and he even felt he was so important he could no-show half the shows this company put on. And where is he now? Last I heard he’s resting up at home due to a serious neck injury incurred by having somebody run the steel chair his head was wrapped up in into a ringpost, and now he’s a permanent fixture in this company’s alumni list. And then there’s Izzy Anders, who you’d all convinced yourself was a reformed character proving to be a better person and definitely not the miserable, infectious waste who made people’s lives a living hell because she thought it was fun for her and her band of besties to wreak havoc on this roster because she had her moment in the sun, only for it to turn out that she’s still the same sick, twisted, miserable waste of flesh and blood she always was and you had to accept you were worshiping a false idol and then some. And then of course there’s this other guy, one I can guarantee you won’t be seeing around here for a while, a guy named Chandler Scott - a guy who thought he could walk in and keep me under his thumb because assumption was all he had, only to find me walk all over him and leave him in the dirt.

In response to Carmichael invoking Scott’s name, the crowd try to rile him by chanting “CHANDLER”, but all this seems to do is make Carmichael reconsider his option on low-hanging fruit.

John Carmichael: You got that out of your systems? Good. Now, before I was so rudely interrupted, let me tell you about the dream of Chandler Scott, the guy you can always rely on to get it done in the end no matter what the stakes, the guy who was more dependable than Ol’ Faithful: you lied to him for years, and he believed it. Oh sure, for a few years he managed to coast by with the tools he had and an overinflated opinion of himself, but as the years wore on he had to limit himself to fewer and fewer matches to maintain that image of himself, but do you know who was getting it done no matter what the stakes? You’re looking at him.

You’d expect Carmichael to smirk after that last jab, but he doesn’t - he’s deadly serious.

John Carmichael: And that is why I am the backbone of this company, because I can match each and every achievement and accolade that your favourites have had, and yet while they get put on this company’s Mount Rushmore I’m left off because that’s the story they’re telling you, and at this point I think it’s long overdue that I took several tonnes of dynamite to that Mount…

His rant is cut off all of a sudden by a steel chair being cracked across his back. He fell to the mat as standing behind, holding the chair, was Savannah Taylor. The fans are genuinely surprised as to why she attacked Carmichael and are even more confused when she raises the chair above her head and crashes it against his back. Looking down at the fallen Carmichael, she reaches down and grabs the microphone that had dropped from his hands. She takes the chair in her hands and unfolds it, sitting down with her elbows resting on her knees.

Savannah Taylor: I’m going to need you to do me a solid and just shut the hell up for about two minutes. You know you come out here and you act like you are the second coming of Christ, all because you took out one of the Four Pillars of FGA. Congratulations. Do you want a cookie or something? Now while you’re sitting there counting the stars that are sure to be swirling around your head, allow me to elaborate on a couple of points that you started to make. Believe it or not, I actually understand where you are coming from. I know what it’s like to bust your ass week in and week out and not get the recognition that you feel you deserve. I know what it’s like to be overlooked. And yeah, I do have a tendency to go off on the topic. But do you know what I prefer to do? I prefer to let my talents back it up.

She pauses for a second to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear.

Savannah Taylor: Now you want to bring up certain people’s names and how you are supposedly better than they are. Let me tell you a little something about how when Izzy, Heather and myself ran over everyone not too terribly long ago. You see, the focus was always on the other two, while I was more in the background. I was fine with that. We were content with how things were going, until the day it all ended. Then we went our separate ways and our careers took different paths. You want to talk about how the fans suddenly found themselves cheering for Izzy despite her history. Now, I’m going to be dealing with Izzy later, and despite your claims, she’s quite the lovely person. Now, do you want a more accurate representation of someone who the fans took to cheering for and loved, despite being a miserable, vile, twisted waste of flesh? Jimmy Page is the one you’re looking for. And where is he now? Hopefully laying facedown in a ditch under a bridge somewhere.

A pause.

Savannah Taylor: And as for Chandler Scott? It’s safe to say that my history with him is well documented and has been subject to gossip and scrutiny from social media and beyond…..and that has nothing to do with inside the ring. And yes, I am painfully aware that inside the ring, he is my own personal Waterloo. What I will say, however, is that his attitude is more than warranted based on his accolades. But, I am not Izzy Anders. I am not Evan Envi. I am not Chander Scott. What I am is something far worse.

She stands up from the chair and glances down at a slow moving Carmichael.

Savannah Taylor: Now if you want to seek retribution for what I just did and if you want to seek justice for the fact that you’re laying there in pain, then I have zero problem answering you. Just remember what happened to the last self important piece of crap who tried to step to me.

With that, she drops the mic right by his head and climbs out of the ring, walking back up the aisle, not paying any attention to the somewhat mixed reaction she is receiving from the crowd, while Carmichael is having to use the steel chair that Savannah attacked him with to lift himself off the mat and, as he does so, he is looking daggers at Savannah’s back

[FGA Office]

The camera switches to the backstage area where Amanda Johnson is standing with a microphone next to El Guapo, Julian Tijerina. They seem to be chatting up each other, with Amanda chuckling giddily, oblivious that they are now live. The cameraman, however, feigns a cough, interrupting them and signaling to Amanda that the camera is now recording. Flustered, Amanda almost drops her mic but manages to quickly bounce back, though she appears apologetically embarrassed.

Amanda Johnson: Ladies and gentlemen, we're here backstage with former FGA 15 Champion Julian Tijerina who has yet to be defeated since his return to the ring.

Turning to Julian, she giggles but then quickly catches herself, feigning a cough and trying her best to sound more professional.

Amanda Johnson: Julian, congratulations on the winning streak! You've been one of the staples of FGA through the years, despite disappearing a few years ago, and at Night 2 of All-Star Showdown X, you managed to keep your streak alive by beating three other competitors: Antoinette, Sloan Talbot, and Laura Perelli. What's next for El Guapo?

Julian chuckles, clearly a little uncomfortable at the mention of his disappearance, but he simply shakes his hand, putting both hands to his hips, and answers the question with as much charm as he can.

Julian Tijerina: Muchos gracias, Amanda! I have actually just been informed that because of my winning streak, I have now earned an opportunity for either the FGA 15 Championship or the FGA Pride Championship.

Amanda's eyes widen in amazement as the crowd chants "You deserve it!" over and over again. Julian just grins, his eyes on the microphone.

Amanda Johnson: That is amazing, Julian! Congratulations, again! Which title are you going for then? If I remember correctly, you've mentioned once or twice winning the FGA 15 Championship once again... Will that be El Guapo's next trophy?

Still grinning, Julian chuckles out loud. He combs his hair and shakes his head, not a gesture of denial but more of a show of uncertainty.

Julian Tijerina: I have been open about winning the FGA 15 Championship again, si, mi amor, as you said, it was my first and only title on FGA. It would be the most poetic option, I think, me returning to FGA to once again win the title that made my name here. This is the 10 Year Anniversary of the greatest promotion on Earth, and it would make so much sense if I revealed that I would once again fight to become FGA 15 Champion, that I would take the same title and have another run with it...

He then turns to the camera, still a big grin on his face, his hands back on his hips.

Julian Tijerina: ...but then I remember, I have never had my hands on the FGA Pride Championship... I remember back in the day, all those years ago, my name was synonymous with pride as the adjective and as the sin. Era tan mortal como el pecado, el orgullo encarnado. Wouldn't it be more poetic then, if El Guapo, Julian Tijerina, became FGA Pride Champion, and ultimately, elevates that championship to heights that its name truly deserves? That, to me, sounds muy bueno.

The crowd starts cheering "Julian! Julian! Julian!" again and again, though a few cheers "That is guapo" followed by five claps. Julian just grins at the camera and then at Amanda, who has something else in mind.

Amanda Johnson: I also remember, I don't know if you do, that four years ago, the Pride Championship was also the title that you famously cost Brian Stryker. Stryker has been one of your most tenacious rivals. Did that memory also come into play or-

Julian cuts Amanda off, shaking his head, though he continues to smile.

Julian Tijerina: I don't want to be rude, mi amor, but I also don't want you to sound rude to the current Pride Champion, who isn't Brian Stryker. Me and Brian, we go a long ways back, but times have changed, people have changed, and I have nothing against Brian, nothing personally, not now, not ever. That was four years ago, I barely even remember the two people with me back then, why that happened, what happened...

Julian heaves a sigh, clearly annoyed, though he fights it with his charming smirk, while Amanda just stands there, a little confused.

Julian Tijerina: ...but the fact of the matter is, he is not involved with this conversation. The fact of the matter is, the current Pride Champion is Ace Voltage, who defended his title successfully against Tyler Storm on the same night I beat three others to defend my winning streak. All-Star Showdown X didn't just show me that I am ready for the limelight once again, that I am ready to become the people's champion, the champion everyone deserves, but it also revealed the championship that I need to go after. I have always been a fan of the Pride Rules, and as you and everyone else already knows, with El Guapo, pride does rule.

Julian then winks at the camera before blowing a kiss towards Amanda, who seems smitten by it, as he walks away with that patented playful smirk. Amanda finds herself looking longingly after Julian until the cameraman feigns another cough to remind her that they are still live. She quickly tries to bounce back as best as she can.

Amanda Johnson: Wow, uhm... I don't know what came over me but... I guess some things never change. Uhh, this is Amanda Johnson, that was former FGA 15 Champion, and I guess, current No. 1 Contender to the FGA Pride Championship, El Guapo, Julian Tijerina... Just...wow.

The camera then fades out to the cameraman sighing.

[FGA Office]

The scene fades to an undisclosed park at night. There's no action on the basketball court behind us. Outside of the occasion car that passes by on my road road, the park is eerily silent. There's one only other person here besides the cameraman. The figure lies several feet ahead. As the cameraman approaches, their figure comes from and more into focus. Seconds later, the camera exits out of the park through the fence door opening. The camera pans to the left, revealing the individual. The unknown person is currently leaning with their back against the wall of the caged fence. A Yankees cap obscures most of their face.

Unknown: The last time the FGA audience saw me competing, it was at Xcellence. It was an event that showcased our people.

The individual holds their hand up and rubs the back of it.

Unknown: It was an event that highlighted our talents. It was an event that gave voice to people that are often taken for granted, marginalized, dismissed. That night, we captured the industry's ear. That night, the industry peeped our technique. It was a really, really special night, man. The stars were out. A lot of people support.ed But did you support, Cassius? Hmm? Did you support? Did you lend your voice to that event? Did you lend your talents to that event? No, of course not. Why not? It's real simple. Cassius Reed doesn't give a good goddamn about our people. Cassius Reed only cares about himself. Who better to tell the tale than yours truly.

The individual pushes themselves up off the fence into the light, revealing themself to me none other than TJ Techniques, one half of the now former World Team Team champions.

TJ Techniques: But don't think you're the only one being brought to task here, because there's plenty of other people who claim to be down for the culture... yet their asses were nowhere to be found. Don't worry, they'll get dealt with at another point in time. Let's get back to your hoe ass for just a minute, Cash.

TJ rubs his chin before continuing.

TJ Techniques: A lot of people questioned my decision making. They wondering if I truly knew what I was doing. Why on Earth would I put my faith in my trust in a man who, for all intents and purposes, spat in my face? I heard the whispers. I got the texts. I got the DMs. People told me not to listen to you. People told me that you was nothing but a snake. But I brushed them off. I dismissed them. I told them that I could make this work. I told them that we could make this work.

A beat.

TJ Techniques: Guys like Jair Hopkins, Justin Brooks, and a whole host of others. Those are people that paved the way for people like me. I told the world this before and I'll tell the world this again. Guys like you paved the way for me, too. I mean, you can name all the names in this industry that you want. But who else was going out there and winning tournaments year after year after year in multiple companies? The first name that comes to mind is you, Cassius. I respected you. I respected your grind. I respected your talents in this ring. I told you that in the leadup to our very first match against each other. November 21, 2020. Queens, New York. I was able to win that match. It wasn't my first match in FGA. But it was the first match in this place that I ever won. That meant something to me. It meant something to have that match against you. It meant something to have that first win come against you. So to show you the respect that you deserved, I offered you my hand. I offered you my respect. What did you do? You left me hanging. That shoulda been the first sign. But nah, I kept pushing...

TJ rubs his hands together

TJ Techniques: You and me? We weren't done yet. We faced off once again. At the very next Vertigo, as a matter of fact. December 5, 2020. Queens, New York. That time, I wasn't so lucky. The young bull still had some things to learn. The old dog still had some old tricks and he beat me. You beat me. Fair and square, mind you. So what did I do? Did I pout? Did I cause a scene? Nah, I'm not no sucka like some people. I got up, dusted myself off and put my hand back out to you. I congratulated you as a man and to show my respect, I offered my hand. What did you do? You put your hand out, only to pull it back. You put your hand out, only to put it back. You put your damn hand out... only to pull it back.

TJ sucks his teeth.

TJ Techniques: You played me. Played me in front of the cameras. Played me for all to see. Played me in front of New York.

TJ shakes his finger at the cammera.

TJ Techniques: That shoulda been the second red flag. Yet I kept pushing.

A beat.

TJ Techniques: You and me? We weren't done yet. That brought us to where? All-Star Showdown IX. You and me. One more time for the third time. We had to have that tiebreaker. We had to see just who was better. Was it the Funky Dragon or was it the Funky Technician? Was it the Ebony Salmon or was it the Meaning of Dope. New York City found out that night that I'm not nothing to mess with. FGA found out that they had a young bull that they could invest in You, Cassius? You found out on that night that I am as real as it gets. I beat you that night. And when I beat you, I put my hand out to you again. One more time and, bruh I swear to you, it was gonna be for the last time. That night, though? Something clicked. You saw it. You felt it. I couldn't be denied any longer. You yourself wouldn't deny me any longer. For the first time in forever, you showed humility. You showed me the respect that very few vets in this industry gave me.

TJ pats his heart twice before continuing.

TJ Techniques: Fast forward to spring 2021. I hatch this plot, right. It's gonna be me and a mystery partner against... I think it was Saturnian Connection. I could have picked anyone. I could have called on my day one Johnny Amazing. Instead, I called on you, Cash. I made you my partner. Why? Because I believed in what the two of us could do together. I believed in what the two of us could bring to this tag team division. We had style. We had the moves. After that series of matches, you knew me just as well as I knew you. The respect was finally there. All we had to do was put our talents together and our potential would have been limitless. No one could stop us. Silk & Cyanide. Saturnian Connection. No one could stop us. We became the damn World Tag Team Champions. Illuminati Projekt. Ashes to Ashes. No. One. Could. Stop. Us... but you.

TJ lets out a scoff. A shake of the head follows.

TJ Techniques: And that's exactly what happened. You? You're a "win by any means necessary" kind of a guy. And that's cool. That's fine. That's just not how I get down. That's not how I handle mines. When I step out there in that ring, all I need to win... is all you see right here. I don't need brass knucks. I don't need loaded elbow pads. I don't need low blows. I don't need foreign objects. I'm good enough to win on my own merits. With my own skill. If I lose? hey, there's no shame in losing. Everybody loses sometime. Sparrow? He lost. Fujiko? She lost. Cordy? She lost. The greats in our sport all lose sometime. If I'm gonna lose, it's because the opponent was the better man. If I win, it's because I was the better man, not because I cheated.

TJ lets that last line linger before continuing.

TJ Techniques: It became clear as Summer turned to Fall that our ideologies were no longer aligned. When I became expendable, you dropped me. The Renegades of Funk didn't have to end the way that it ended. Yeah, we lost. We lost the titles. But we coulda dusted ourselves off, gotten back up and took those titles right back. I mean, what, do you really think Silk & Cyanide could pull it off again when we're on our game? Hell no. And that's no shade at them because they good at what they do. But they not us and we proved it before. All-Star Showdown X? It wasn't our night. But we coulda taken the L, learned from it, gotten better and got our titles back. Instead? You decided to blow everything up.

TJ Techniques: Even if you had enough of me, even if you were through... the least you could have done is explain it to me like a man. At least we coulda had the conversation. But what did you do, Cash? What did you do. You went back and did some of that sucka shit. Not only did you attack me, you put me out of action for several weeks. This wheel?

TJ points down to his leg.

TJ Techniques: It ain't bad no more. Oh, we good over here now. Which means bad, bad, bad news for your ass.

TJ claps his hands once.

TJ Techniques: It goes like. For months, I put up with you talking down to me. I put up with you tryin to Lil Bro me. I put up with you trying to take all the credit for everything. Time and time again, I let it ride. For the betterment of the team, I let you get your shit off. For the betterment of our title reign, I turned the other cheek. I'm not turning the other cheek no more. Now, Cash? Now? It's time to get in that ass.

TJ points directly at the camera.

TJ Techniques: FGA Higher Ups. You know me. I play it calm... humble. I don't ask for much. But it's about time that I call in a favor. So this is what I'm asking. No, this is what I want and some way or another, you will give me what I want. I want no one else... but Cassius Reed. Right now, I don't care about no titles here. I don't care about no dream matches here. I don't care about no headline matches, main event matches. None of that. All I want... is Cassius Reed. You will give me Cassius Reed and you will give me no one else until you give me him first. Make the damn match...