Vertigo E93

[FGA Office]

FGA WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP
(c) Silk & Cyanide vs. Illuminati PROJEKT

The video screen blacks out as the lights go dark and “Immigrant Song” by Led Zeppelin starts to play. Two spotlights start chasing each other around the arena until one falls on the figure of Monty Margolis, coming out of the concession area. Monty slides down the handrails toward the ring while on the other side of the arena, the spotlight finds Gwen bouncing in place at the top of the stairs right before she takes off running down the stairs.

The pair hop over the barricade simultaneously and meet for a fist bump before hitting the ring - Gwen pulling herself up onto the apron and saluting the crowd before ducking between the ropes, while Monty climbs the ring steps and holds his pirate flag high before joining his niece.

J.A. Aldridge: Introduc --

Gwen grabs the microphone from J.A. with a mischievous wink and waves him off to the corner.

Gwen: Introducing from Austin, Texas by way of here, there, and everywhere, we are the dream warriors, we are the post-apocalyptic pirates, we are the time-travelin’, dazzlin’, ramblin’ protectors of the world as we know it, the Illuminati PROJEKT!

She hands the microphone back to John and joins her uncle in the corner, both of them watching warily for what will happen next

The sounds of a woman's laugh that drips heavy with contempt echoes through the arena as the arena's lights dim, and as the lights dip into pitch darkness the laughter bleeds into the intro of "Your Addiction" and the arena light bloom once more as Erin Mariani and Sara Mason slink their way onto the entrance ramp with Mariani carrying Her belt across her shoulder while Mason drags hers behind her, and once they reach the top of the ramp Mariani runs a fingertip across the face of Her title belt while Mason drops into a crouch and picks up the belt she's been dragging along behind her and the two fix their eyes on the creatures in the ring who think they have the right to take these belts away from them

Hey come in
And let me get under your skin, your skin
You started something you can't win, can't win
I am your church these are your sins, your sins
Now don't you wish you could take 'em back cause

Once the pair reach ringside they split off in two directions, with Mason walking one way and thoughtlessly chucking her belt into the ring while Mariani takes Her time walking around the ring, occasionally glancing at the opponents to remind Herself which one is which but always makes sure Her glance returns to the belt which is upon Her shoulder

J.A. Aldridge: Their opponent, making their way to the ring at a total combined weight of 248 pounds! They are the team of Erin Mariani and Sara Mason... SILK & CYANIDE!

You've been bitten
And now you made me your addiction
Just tell me when you've had enough
Was your decision
And now you made me your addiction
Just tell me when you've had enough

Having decides to stop toying with their prey for a moment, Mariani climbs the nearest turnbuckle and stands there and holds Her title belt above the heads of Her opponents, on the opposite side of the ring, Mason dives under the bottom rope and slides into the ring, rising to a knee as she grabs her belt off the canvas as she sizes up this evening's entertainment while Mariani grabs the top ropes and vaults into the ring where she lands on Her feet yet somehow never breaks Her line of sight on the opponents

But first
Tell me you like the way it hurts, it hurts
Started a fire but you got burned, got burned
I am your god I am your curse, your curse
Don't you wish you could fade to black cause

Having made their way into the ring, Mariani and Mason decide which corner they're having for the match and Mariani takes a few steps back towards it while Mason crawls backwards, both of them maintaining eye contact the entire time just to make sure the opposition don't get too comfortable, and as they reach the corner Mariani pulls Herself onto the top rope while Mason drops to a crouch

You've been bitten
And now you made me your addiction
Just tell me when you've had enough
Was your decision
And now you made me your addiction
Just tell me when you've had enough

As they wait for the bell to ring, Mason holds her belt in one hand while using her other to goad her opponents to come a little closer just so they can find our what will happen, while Mariani holds Her belt on her shoulder and aims an icy stare at the unfortunate souls who have been duped into being Her opponents to suggest that tonight won't be their night...

The bell sounds as Silk & Cyanide rush over and attack Illuminati PROJEKT from behind! Mariani takes Gwen, applies a two handed choke and muscles her into the corner. The crowd boos Mariani as she continues to choke Gwen. She then places Gwen in a front facelock before delivering multiple knee lifts. After the last knee lift sends Gwen slumping down in the corner, Mariani applies a foot choke.

In the far corner, Mason bites Monty's forehead before nailing him with a headbutt. Monty is then caught with a series of palm strikes to the chest followed by an elbow to the face. After doubling Monty over with a cross chop to the throat, Mason knocks him upright with a knee lift before sending him slumping down in the corner with the Lyssa (side kick to an opponent's midsection).

Mason and Mariani turn around and look at each other from opposite corners. After exchanging a knowing nod, the members of Silk & Cyanide run across the ring. The boos continue as Mason hits Gwen with multiple running dropkicks while Monty gets squashed with running knee strikes!

Silk & Cyanide pick up Illuminati PROJEKT before delivering an irish whip. NO! Illuminati PROJEKT reverse, sending Mason & Mariani crashing into each other in the center of the ring!

Mason stumbles back before Gwen brings her down with a German Suplex while Monty brings Mariani down with an arm trap backstabber!

Gwen takes Mason and whips her into the ropes. As soon as Mason returns off the rebound, Gwen connects with a superkick that knocks her through the ropes!

Back in the ring, Monty takes Mariani and whips her into the ropes. When Mariani returns, Monty brings her down with a flapjack. After Mariani rolls onto her back, Gwen and Monty hit a split leg drop/somersault senton combination. Monty turns over and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Mariani kicks out.

Monty takes Mariani, runs over into the Illuminati PROJEKT corner and slams her face-first into the top turnbuckle while the crowd counts along.

"ONE!"

"TWO!"

"THREE!"

"FOUR!"

"FIVE!"

"SIX!"

"SEVEN!"

"EIGHT!"

"NINE!"

"TEN!"

Gwen gets tagged in. Gwen gets in, climbs up onto the middle ropes and rains down punches while the crowd counts along.

"ONE!"

"TWO!"

"THREE!"

"FOUR!"

"FIVE!"

"SIX!"

"SEVEN!"

"EIGHT!"

"NINE!"

"TEN!"

Gwen hops down before a forearm smash drops Mariani to a seated position. She then steps back towards the center of the ring before running forward and squashing Mariani with a cannonball senton! She gets dragged out of the corner before Gwen makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Mariani kicks out.

Monty gets tagged back in. The cheers continue as the Illuminati PROJEKT bring Mariani down with the Excellent Adventure (Reverse STO from Gwen, jumping enzuigiri Monty)! He makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Mariani gets the shoulder up.

Monty takes Mariani and goes for an irish whip, sending him into the ropes. When Monty hits the ropes, the crowd boos when Mason knees him in the back!

The boos continue as Mason traps Monty from behind with a rope hung crucifix. Mariani then heads over and rakes Monty across the chest before repeatedly slapping him across the face. She then rakes him across the eyes to add insult. Once Mason is tagged in, Silk & Cyanide bring him down with the Canto V (Mariani goozles the opponent before Mason hits a spinning leg sweep, allowing Mariani to drive the opponent to the mat)! Mason makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Monty kicks out.

Mason picks up Monty and doubles him over with an inverted atomic drop before delivering the Lorelei (with the opponent in a headlock, Mason dives out of the ring to snap their neck on the ropes)!

Mason rolls back inside, drapes Monty throat-first across the bottom rope and steps on his back to choke him! The crowd boos Mason while the ref if quick to count her down.

Ref: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR!

Mason steps off Monty before Mason runs along the apron and delivers The Morrigan (with the opponent's throat draped on the bottom rope, Mariani runs along the ring apron and hits a running stomp to the back of their head)! Mason rolls to the outside, grabs Monty and brings him to the outside with the Diabolik (swinging neckbreaker to an opponent hanging off the apron to the arena floor)! The boos continue as Monty gets rolled back inside before Mason slides back in, drags him away from the ropes and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Monty gets the shoulder up.

Mason slams Monty face-first into the top turnbuckle. After a series of headbutts send him slumping down in the corner, Mason tags Mariani back in before backing up towards the center of the ring. Mariani steps back in and applies another foot choke.

Ref: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR!

Mariani releases the choke as Mason runs over towards the corner. The crowd boos when Mariani hip tosses Mason into the corner, squashing Monty with a cannonball senton! Mariani backs up towards the center of the ring. Mason pulls Monty back up and runs over before Silk & Cyanide deliver the Vow (one-handed bulldog by Mason over Mariani’s knee)! The boos continue as Mariani makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Gwen breaks up the pin with a stomp to the back!

Monty gets brought back down with an arm trap swinging neckbreaker. Mariani heads towards the ropes, rebounds back and hits a handspring moonsault! NO! Monty counters!

Mariani curls up on the mat while she guards her midsection. Monty can be seen slowly turning over into the prone position before pulling himself over towards the corner. Gwen reaches her arm out. She's screaming for the tag. Gwen repeatedly slaps the top turnbuckle. The crowd takes their cue and chants in unison. They continue to try and will Monty towards the corner. Monty finally dives over and tags Gwen back in!

Mariani runs over before getting dropped with a superkick. Mason then runs in and gets caught with a superkick for her troubles. Gwen then heads over and doubles Mariani over with a spinning back kick before bringing her down with a snap suplex. Mason then takes a hold of her and goes for an irish whip. Gwen reverses catches Mason off the rebound and brings her down with a Samoan Drop.

Gwen takes Mariani and whips her into the corner. She rushes in to attack, but Mariani counters with a back elbow to the face. The crowd boos as Mariani turns away from Gwen before jumping up and delivering the Morning Spider Despair (headscissors driver into the turnbuckles)!

Mariani kicks Gwen out to the apron before dragging her in place across the middle rope. The boos continue as Silk & Cyanide bring her down with The Infernal Council (combination rope-hung DDT from Mariani and diving splash to the opponent's back from Mason)! Monty rushes over to try and make a save, but he gets met with a kick to the midsection. Silk & Cyanide then hook his arms before chucking him over the top rope with a double hip toss!!!

Back inside, Silk & Cyanide lift Gwen up before throwing her down with the Haute Tension (double team inverted crucifix powerbomb)! Mariani makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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THREE!

J.A. Aldridge: Ladies and gentlemen, the winners of this bout... aaaaaaand STIIIIILLLLL FGA World Tag Team Champions, SILK & CYANIDE!

[FGA Office]

A few seconds pass before the picture comes to life. Nina Stokes sits on a bench inside of a gym faculty. The gentle hum of a central air unit is the only thing breaking up the facility’s maddening silence. Nina herself tilts her head and gazes into the camera’s lens. She doesn’t utter a word for about ten seconds.

Nina Stokes: Even after all of this time, it’s pretty clear that Frontier Grappling Arts doesn’t truly know how much of a blessing it is to have me on its payroll.

Her voice is just as strong as her words.

Nina Stokes: For years and years and years, FGA was touted as the pinnacle of professional wrestling. The majority of the so-called “Best of the Best” called this place their home at one point in time. And it was always said that if one could make it here, then one could make it anywhere.

A moment passes as Nina clasps her hands together.

Nina Stokes: FGA’s personnel didn’t bring me here. Its legacy is what attracted me. And it’s one of the few things keeping me here as we speak.

There’s a quick pause.

Nina Stokes: My prowess is undeniable. I have done more during my short time in FGA than many people have done throughout the course of their careers. I bring eyes to this company. I bring prestige to this company―

Another pause occurs. This one is a tad bit longer.

Nina Stokes: I deserve more.

The finality and gravity of her words is quite heavy.

Nina Stokes: I deserve more for waltzing into this company and demolishing everything in my path. I deserve more than some contemptuous jeers from fans who don’t even have the wherewithal to know when they are being deceived by their favorites. I deserve more than a L in one of my few main events here because Ace Voltage couldn’t pull his weight, after all the bulls**t he’s talked over the past year.

Her gaze remains unwavered.

Nina Stokes: For the majority of my career in this sport, I have risen the stock of each promotion I have stepped foot in. And you would think that such graciousness would be appreciated. But it rarely was. Instead, that hard work was always met with belittling, with disrespect―

Nina slowly shakes her head.

Nina Stokes: I will not go through that same ordeal here in FGA. You will respect me, or you will die. Those are your only options.

A few more seconds passed as she continued to peer at the screen.

Nina Stokes: I will get what I deserve.

The picture quickly fades out afterwards.

[FGA Office]

MAIN EVENT
HENNY vs. Brian Stryker

Watch Me Burn" starts playing as Brian Stryker comes walking out from the back. Putting his hands on his hips, he looks around for a moment proudly as he makes his way down the ramp.

Kris Cruise: Alright, Stephy. It is main event time. Out first is Brian Stryker. Not only did we hear from Brian Stryker earlier, but we saw his refusal to help Julian Tijerina when Gareth Prichard Jr refused to release the submission after the match.

Stephy Auger: You know, I kind of get where Brian's coming from. Brian never forgot what Julian did to him all those years ago. He cost him a Pride Championship match that he earned. Julian might want to brush his past to the side, but Brian hasn't forgiven or forgotten.

Kris Cruise: He did say that sometime, somewhere, he was going to get his pound of flesh. Julian's got enough to worry about. There's no telling if he'll be 100% for Royal Battle at Royal Albert Hall. But now he has to have the looming threat of Stryker in the back of his head.

Stephy Auger: Well, to be fair, he brought the latter on himself.

He steps up the steel steps walking the edge of the ring as he holds the ropes for leverage as he flips himself over the top and lands feet first in the ring. He climbs up the turnbuckle and sits himself on the top rope and holds his arms out egging the crowd to get louder

J.A. Aldridge: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, hailing from Maui, Hawaii! Weighing in at 225 pounds! He is "The Experience"... BRIAN STRYKER!

The beginning of Biffy Clyro's "The Captain" blasts throughout the arena as HENNY makes his way through the curtain, reaching his mark before posing in time with each break in the music. After holding the final pose for a few moments, HENNY takes a confident glance across the crowd after performing a slow 180, breaking into an assured saunter.

J.A. Aldridge: His opponent, hailing from Toronto, Ontario, Canada! Weighing in at 225 pounds... HENNY!

HENNY proceeds down the ramp, jawing with most of the fans leaning over the guardrail, and even threatening a member of the audience with a sudden movement and a cocked fist, causing them to flinch. HENNY laughs loudly at the fan before making his way to ringside, now waving a dismissive hand at the crowd before climbing up the steel steps.

Kris Cruise: HENNY made a huge statement at All-Star Showdown X when he took out Tyler Storm. At the 10 Year Anniversary Show, he was able to get his first win as an official member of the roster. he's looking to keep that momentum rolling in this one.

Stephy Auger: What better place for HENNY to be than in the main event. We still haven't heard one peep out of Tyler Storm since All-Star Showdown X. Word around the camp fire is that it's currently unknown win, or if, Tyler Storm will return.

Kris Cruise: If HENNY does successfully drive Tyler out of FGA, I'm sure we won't hear the end of it.

Stephy Auger: Now if only he could do the same to that other member of SHITCAMP...

From the apron the Swede scales the turnbuckle, his left foot planted on the second rope whilst his right is on the turnbuckle. He then begins to casually shrug off his jacket, allowing it to slide off his body to the floor before holding his arms out to his side again and tensing his muscles, inciting an extremely loud negative reaction from the audience in attendance once more.

After hopping into the ring HENNY jogs across to the diagonally opposite turnbuckle before blowing a mocking kiss into the crowd as high pitched jeers rainout from a large contingent of the FGA faithful. As the music slowly fades, HENNY hops off the turnbuckle backwards into the ring and struts to his corner, making himself comfortable on the turnbuckle as he waits for the match to begin.

The bell sounds as HENNY and Stryker motion to start things off with a lock up. The crowd boos when HENNY opts out of the lockup and nails Stryker with a kick to the midsection. The boos continues as HENNY starts to pepper Stryker with multiple snapping jabs. He then hits Stryker with a right hand. A second punch connects. HENNY goes for a third, but Stryker blocks and counters with a punch of his own. The cheers continue as Stryker connects with a second punch. He then takes HENNY and moves him into the near ropes before going for an irish whip. HENNY is quick to reverse, sending Stryker into the far ropes. When Stryker returns, he brings HENNY down with a running hurricanrana. HENNY returns to a vertical base before getting knocked back down with a running dropkick. When HENNY gets back to his feet and turns around, Stryker charges over and connects with a running clothesline, sending him over the top rope to the floor.

Kris Cruise: HENNY's been dropped to the outside!

HENNY picks himself up on the outside. When he turns around, he does a double take before Stryker knocks him down with a springboard Shooting Star Splash!

Stephy Auger: GAH!

Kris Cruise: The high risk pays off as Stryker takes out HENNY on the floor!

Stryker takes HENNY and brings him back inside before making the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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HENNY kicks out.

Stryker takes control of HENNY's arm and delivers a pair of arm wrenches. After being on the receiving end of a third, HENNY rolls forward, turns over onto his knees, flips over with a headstand, spins in place and counters with an arm wrench of his own. The crowd boos as HENNY repeatedly tries to yank the arm from out of its socket. He delivers another arm wrench until Stryker rolls forward, leans back, kips up and knocks him down with the First Stryke (arm twist/hook kick combo)!

Kris Cruise: Stryker caught all of that kick.

Stephy Auger: Yeah, he just nailed HENNY right in the moneymaker. How dare him!

Stryker brings the action into the corner and slams HENNY face-first into the top turnbuckle.

Stephy Auger: He's doing it again! What the heck, Brian!?

Stryker turns HENNY around and lights up his chest with knife edge chops. He then delivers an irish whip and follows him across the ring until HENNY knocks him back with a back elbow. HENNY goes to knock Stryker down with a double jump moonsault, but Stryker moves out of the way by running towards the corner. HENNY lands on his feet before running into the corner to attack. The crowd cheers when Stryker counters the attack with the Tarantula.

Kris Cruise: Stryker's got him wrapped up!

Stephy Auger: Quick, ref, count him down!

Ref: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR!

Stryker breaks the hold. He then scales to the top turnbuckle, leaps off and knocks HENNY down with a diving crossbody! NO! The crowd boos when HENNY dropkicks him out of the air!

Kris Cruise: HENNY caught Stryker with the anti air!

Stephy Auger: Stryker might have just gotten the wind knocked out of him, too!

HENNY runs towards the ropes and hits Stryker with a Lionsault. He hooks the leg.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Stryker gets the shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: HENNY followed up with another targeted attack to the torso, but he only gets two.

HENNY takes Stryker and brings him down with a snap suplex. He then turns over into a lateral press as he presses his forearm down hard across Stryker's jaw.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Stryker gets the shoulder up.

Stryker gets sent for the ride. When he returns, HENNY knocks him down with a back elbow before following up with a jumping knee drop. The crowd boos HENNY while he keeps his knee pressed down across Stryker's face. After being admonished by the official, HENNY reluctantly lets go. He pulls Stryker back to his feet, brings him down with a snapmare and follows up with a dropkick to the back of the head. HENNY makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Stryker gets the shoulder up.

HENNY pulls Stryker up to a seated position. After connecting with multiple shoot kicks to the back, HENNY hits the ropes, returns and flattens Stryker with a sliding forearm smash. The boos continue as he makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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Stryker gets the shoulder up.

Kris Cruise: Yet another two count for HENNY. He's definitely returned the favor with those targeted strikes to the head.

HENNY takes Stryker and whips him into the corner. He runs in to attack, but Stryker knocks him back with a boot to the face. HENNY shakes off the blow before rushing back in. This time, Stryker knocks him back with a back elbow to the face. Stryker turns away from HENNY and brings him down with a springboard moonsault! NO! As soon as Stryker leaps up to the top turnbuckle, HENNY connects with a high dropkick, sending Stryker flipping off the top and crashing to the floor!

Kris Cruise: Good Lord! Did you hear the thud from that landing!?

Stryker can be seen writhing in pain on the floor. The ref heads to the outside, checks on Stryker and asks him if he wants him to call it. Stryker refuses. Seconds later, Stryker starts to stir on the outside. Once he finally makes it back to his feet, he slowly turns to face the ring. The crowd boos when Stryker gets knocked down with a double jump moonsault from HENNY!

Kris Cruise: HENNY caught him that time with the moonsault!

Stephy Auger: You've got him where you want him, HENNY! Get him back inside and get this over with.

HENNY takes Stryker and rolls him back in. He then slides back in the ring, drags Stryker away from the ropes and makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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THR-NO!

Stryker gets the shoulder up.

HENNY takes Stryker and brings him down with a bridging Fisherman Suplex.

ONE!
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TWO!
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THR-NO!

Stryker gets the shoulder up.

HENNY takes Stryker, lifts him up and plants him with the Malmö Driver ‘91 (Double Underhook Brainbuster)!

ONE!
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TWO!
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THRE-NO!

Stryker is met with cheers and applause as he gets the shoulder up.

Stephy Auger: How did he get up from that!? That should have been three!

HENNY sets up shop in the corner. Once Stryker is finally back to a vertical base, HENNY blows him a kiss before charging out of the corner to hit an attack. Before HENNY can strike, Stryker counters with a basement dropkick that sends him tumbling to the mat. HENNY gets up on one knee before Stryker plants him with a Spiking Hurricanrana! He makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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HENNY kicks out.

Stryker delivers an irish whip, follows HENNY across the ring and connects with a corner elbow. He quickly follows up with a CSS Enzuigiri! The cheers continue as Stryker brings him out of the corner with the Overdose (Straight Jacket Shiranui)!

ONE!
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TWO!
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T-NO!

HENNY gets the shoulder up.

Stryker takes HENNY and whips him back into the corner. HENNY crashes sternum-first into the corner and stumbles back before getting thrown down with the Insomniac's Dream (Crossface Chickenwing Suplex)! He makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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TH-NO!

The crowd sighs when HENNY gets the shoulder up.

Stryker takes HENNY and goes for Stryke 2 (Leg-hook Saito Suplex)! Somehow, HENNY slips down from behind. He then quickly pushes Stryker into the ropes. When Stryker returns, the crowd boos when HENNY turns him inside out with a Busaiku Knee Kick!

Stephy Auger: If U Seek HENNY!

HENNY grabs Stryker by both wrists and pulls him up to his knees before nailing him with Heartache’s Kiss (Kamigoye)! He makes the cover.

ONE!
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TWO!
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THREE!

J.A. Aldridge: Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this bout... HENNY!

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •/center]

[FGA Office]

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

As we return from commercial break, the soulful horns of "What It Feels Like" by Nipsey Hussle and Jay-Z greet us as the arena promptly responds with a chorus of boos.

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

The former Undisputed Champion makes her way out from behind the curtain, her eyes narrowed as she glares out at the hostile crowd in agitation. She shakes her head at their reaction and mouths off back at them, a cocky grin spreading across her face.

Stephy Auger: These people need to show some respect to that woman right there!

Kris Cruise: What do you mean, Stephy? They’re just giving her a warm Hershey, PA welcome. Listen to it.

The boos grow louder as Cordelia saunters down the ramp and towards the ring, seemingly unbothered. She circles the ring, making sure to take her time, which only seems to get the crowd all the more riled up. She walks past the timekeeper's table and snatches up an extra microphone that they have lying there before making her way back around the ring. Finally she marches up the steps, slowly climbing through the ropes, which causes a few of the boos to momentarily change to a few catcalls. Cordelia rolls her eyes as she makes her way towards the center of the ring and the music begins to fade out. A chant for the reigning Undisputed Champion, Lowri Moss breaks out.

Cordelia Stevenson: You’ve got some goddamn nerve….

She cuts her eyes at the crowd as she pivots on her feet, her head shaking in disgust.

Cordelia Stevenson: … to treat black excellence this way, especially during black history month.

She scoffs as the comment seems to subdue them a bit. A sly and knowing smirk spreads across her face.

Cordelia Stevenson: But then again, that isn’t really surprising considering where I am and the history of this place, is it now, Hershey?

The fans roar in disapproval, but Cordelia waves them off.

Cordelia Stevenson: You know what, you don’t want me out here do you?

Her question is met with a resounding NO.

Cordelia Stevenson: Good. And I damn sure don’t want to be out here any longer than I need to be, so how about you do us both a favor and shut the hell up so I can hurry my pretty ass back up the I-76 to anywhere better than here.

She lowers the mic and snickers a bit as the crowd continues to show their disdain. Loud chants for Lowri Moss break out in various parts of the crowd.

Cordelia Stevenson: I guess you idiots don’t plan on getting out of here anytime tonight if you’re wanting her to come out here running her mouth. Yeah, yall can have it cause I ain’t got the time or the damn patience. So let me just get on with my business.

She slowly paces around the ring, her eyes aimed down towards the mat as she gathers her thoughts.

Cordelia Stevenson: Y’know… I’ve thought a lot about All-Star Showdown…

She hesitates for a moment before holding up a finger.

Cordelia Stevenson: …and the injustice that occurred.

A deep scowl forms on her face as she shakes her head in disgust.

Cordelia Stevenson: The way that this God-forsaken company used my willingness to be a fighting champion to their leverage… making me defend my Undisputed Championship on back to back nights; taking a title shot that was never theirs to give… and forcing me to defend against Izzy Pop on night one, instead of the designated time of my choosing, since y’know…

Cordelia sarcastically shrugs before jabbing herself in the chest.

Cordelia Stevenson: I was the one that offered the shot for the elimination of Chandler Scott in the first place.

Her eyes narrow as she runs a hand through her hair.

Cordelia Stevenson: But no, instead, Leonard T. Asherman incorporated all of that into his well thought out plan to stack the deck against me. Knowing the warrior that I am; the fighter that I am; that I would give my absolute all to try and defy the odds as I usually do, no matter how… unfair they might be. I mean, seriously! In the history of All-Star Showdown, when has any champion ever been made to defend their title on both nights? Think about it. Go ahead, I’ll give you a second.

Cordelia folds her arms across her chest and taps her foot impatiently.

Cordelia Stevenson: Oh right, you can’t think of any other time, can you? Because things like that only get done to Cordelia Stevenson.

She scoffs.

Cordelia Stevenson: This company just celebrated its ten year anniversary, and arguably there is absolutely no one more decorated than I. Yet the disrespect is rampant. People like Mighty Sparrow run around screaming Excellence, but remain quiet when one of their very own is so blatantly disrespected in the damn house that she helped build and to be quite honest, it’s sickening to see, but you want to know something? I’m done with the disrespect. I’m done playing with the shitty hands that are constantly and purposely dealt my way. I’m tired of playing against the stacked deck. Nah, I’m switching the game up and it’s time to play by my rules now.
Cordelia turns now, shifting her gaze directly towards the camera. A sinister smirk spreads across her face.

Cordelia Stevenson: You know, I seriously contemplated whether or not I would use my rematch clause. I figured, why not let each and every one of you suffer. I mean, you’re so convinced that the grass is greener with Lowri right? Because she’s more than content to keep that veil of make-believe over your eyes instead of exposing you to the harsh truths of reality. Why not let you drown in her well of monotony? A fate that each and every one of you more than deserves.

She holds up a finger.

Cordelia Stevenson: But the more I sat back and thought about it, what kind of woman would I be if I did not stand up for myself? That would go against the very fibers of my being. What kind of woman would I be if I didn’t call out Leonard T. Asherman and Lowri Moss as the co-conspirators that they were? Because make no mistake about it, that is exactly what they were. Lowri’s unconvincing and empty pleas to have a match on night one of All-Star Showdown all in the name of fairness – knowing damn well that Leonard would never allow that… yet you people ate it up. She’s so valiant! No. Lowri Moss is nothing but a con artist and quite frankly she doesn’t deserve to walk around with my Undisputed Championship.

Cordelia’s declaration definitely draws the ire of the crowd. Her words draw a thunderous chant of Lowri’s name.

Cordelia Stevenson: And that is why I have every intention of taking it back… at my show and in my favorite kind of match.

There is a murmur that breaks out amongst the crowd now. It is clear that Cordelia has their attention.

Cordelia Stevenson: You see, rumor has it that Grapple Kingdom is right around the corner, and everyone knows that event holds a very special place in my heart – because it was at the very first Grapple Kingdom that I became the first ever FGA Undisputed Champion.

She smirks.

Cordelia Stevenson: So why shouldn’t that be the stage where I reclaim my title? Lowri, at All-Star Showdown, there is no denying that you got the best of a… fatigued and beaten down Cordelia Stevenson that had survived a war the night before with Isabella Anders. The odds were definitely in your favor, Sis. Leonard T Asherman made sure of it. But can you beat a fresh Cordelia Stevenson at an event that is damn near synonymous with her name? Can you…

Before Cordelia can even complete the next statement, she is interrupted by the intro of “Loner Boogie” by Boy Azooga, which instantly changes the mood inside the building, the fans cheering loudly, and those cheers only increase in volume when Lowri Moss walks out through the curtains.

Stephy Auger: Who does Lowri Moss think she is, interrupting Cordelia when she clearly wasn't done talking yet? The nerve of her!

Kris Cruise: I don't know, Stephy. The fans don't seem to mind about Cordy being cut off.

Lowri stands on the stage, the Undisputed title over her shoulder and a broad smile on her face. She takes a moment to scan the crowd, revelling in the reception, before she then makes her way down the ramp, slapping the hands of the fans that reach out to her as she heads towards the ring. After arriving at ringside, Lowri makes her way around one side of the ring, continuing to slap hands with the fans in the front row as she does.

Stephy Auger: She had better not be coming over here again!

Kris Cruise: Why? What are you going to do if she does, Stephy?

Lowri does indeed head over to the commentators’ desk, almost as if she had heard what Stephy said. She feints to climb up onto the commentary table, like she did during the opening to the 10 Year Anniversary Show, but she stops and laughs, and instead turns and goes to collect a microphone from J.A. Aldridge. She then clambers up onto the ring apron, steps through the ropes, casts a glance in the direction of Cordy, before looking out at the crowd and raising her title into the air, drawing more cheers and applause. After soaking in the reaction for a few seconds, Lowri puts the title back over her shoulder, and once her music fades out, she offers her usual greeting to the fans.

Lowri Moss: What’s occurring, Hershey?

The customary cheap pop follows; Lowri turns her attention to Cordy.

Lowri Moss: Cordy… I’m sorry for the interruption, but you know, I was watching backstage and it sounded like you had something you wanted me to give you a response to, and since you said that you don’t want to be out here any longer than you need to be, I thought, why keep you waiting?

The smile on her face now resembles something more of a smirk.

Lowri Moss: I’ll try to keep this short, so that you don’t have to be out here for too much longer. Besides, I wouldn’t want to monologue you to death.

She gives a wink to Cordy.

Lowri Moss: I listened to everything that you had to say, Cordy, and you were right when you said that never previously in the history of All-Star Showdown had a champion defended their title on both nights, prior to you doing so last year. However… around two and a half years ago, at All-Star Showdown VIII, Fujiko had to defend both the United States tag team titles and the World title, not on different nights, but on the same night. And that’s not to mention that there have been other instances in FGA of someone having to compete in more than one title match in the same night, something that I’ve had to do myself multiple times.

Following the briefest of pauses, Lowri continues.

Lowri Moss: What happened at All-Star Showdown X, you defending the Undisputed title on both nights, that was a situation of your own making: no one forced you to defend the title against whoever eliminated Chandler from the Gold Rush Rumble, no one forced you to put a bounty on his head - that was your decision, and yours alone.

A small sigh escapes her lips.

Lowri Moss: But regardless of all of that, I don’t have any problem admitting, Cordy, that you are more than deserving of a rematch for this.

Lowri taps the faceplate of the Undisputed title.

Lowri Moss: Even if there wasn't a clause that entitled you to a rematch, I don't think anyone could deny that you deserve one, particularly given the combined length of your reigns as International Heavyweight Champion and Undisputed Champion, and so if you want another match with me, at Grapple Kingdom, for this title–

She now glances at the championship resting on her shoulder, before quickly looking back to Cordy.

Lowri Moss: Let’s do it.

Cordelia cannot help but to smile.

Cordelia Stevenson: You know, even when you try to…

She throws up the air quotes.

Cordelia Stevenson: ‘Keep it short’, you still can’t help but to ramble about a whole bunch of nothing. A simple ‘yes’ would have sufficed, hell, it would have done wonders. It would have been powerful. It would have been a moment that would have had this crowd eating out of your damn hands — but of course you had to go and kill it with your need to go on and on about pure foolishness. The more you say doesn’t hide your lack of charisma, chica! It only makes it all the more apparent!

Cordelia takes a step back and holds up a finger.

Cordelia Stevenson: I will give you credit though. You were absolutely right about one thing. The quote unquote, bounty, on Chandler’s head? My decision and my decision alone. Yet… somehow, miraculously, FGA gets to choose when the reward for it is given?

Cordelia cups her chin now, pondering over the scenario. Then she breaks out in her best Dr. Umar Johnson impersonation.

Cordelia Stevenson: You don’t find that suspicious?! Don’t try to defend the con, Lowri. It makes you look all the more guiltier for your role in it. And oh, by the way, I’m well aware of Fujiko defending the tag team titles on the same night as the World title — and your point? Helloooooo, those are two separate divisions and one certainly knows the risks you take when you’re a double champion. Again, you only bolster my claim that I’m always asked to do things that others are not. Because was Fujiko ever forced to defend her World title on back to back nights?! Or better yet, were her opponents anywhere near the caliber of opponents that I had to face? No. It was easy for her to sit back and let Izzy Pop handle the grunt work for their team, and let’s not act like Fujiko was cutting it up against the best of the best on that horrid Vertigo roster back then. While I’m out here battling hall of famers, Fujiko was running through the here today gone tomorrow acts like Marlon Cure and James Edwards. So don’t you ever disrespect me and try to equate anything she’s done to anything I’ve done because she simply… doesn’t… compare.

There is a hint of agitation in Cordelia’s tone as she steps forward and looks down her nose at the Undisputed Champ.

Cordelia Stevenson: Just like you’ll never compare, Lowri. Because above all else — you’re predictable; and that won’t get you very far. Hell, it may have already signed your death certificate. Because I knew the moment I mentioned my Grapple Kingdom — and the significance behind that event… I knew once I mentioned my rematch clause; you’d jump out of your damn skin to accept the challenge — before you actually even knew what the challenge was.

Cordelia takes a step back and motions at Lowri with a sweeping wave of her hand.

Cordelia Stevenson: And you just did. So congratulations, Lowri. It seems we have a date. Because at Grapple Kingdom, you’ll be facing me at my event… in a match that I’ve never lost.

Cordelia saunters forward with an arrogant smirk. Her head lolls back and she gives a casual glance up at the ceiling before returning her eyes down to the Champ’s.

Cordelia Stevenson: A ladder match.

Cordelia blows a kiss at Lowri and then looks at the Undisputed Championship in Lowri’s possession.

Cordelia Stevenson: Yeah. We’re doing things my way, chica. So don’t get too familiar with that, because on February 26th… it’s coming home to mama.

Cordelia flips the microphone from her hand, allowing it to fall to the mat. Her eyes never leave Lowri’s as a dastardly smile once again forms on her face.

Lowri Moss: If a ladder match is what you want… fine.

Lowri lowers the microphone away from her mouth, but she can still be seen saying something to Cordy, asking whether that response was succinct enough for her liking. The crowd goes ballistic at the thought of these two ladies in a ladder match for the Undisputed Championship. Cordelia’s smile fades a bit and her gaze grows intense as the two women stare each other down. This is the final shot of the night as the scene fades away.