Post by Admin on Jun 8, 2021 23:33:54 GMT -5
LIVE from THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM at the historic ELDORADO CASINO in RENO, NV JUNE 12, 2021 |
INT. RINGSIDE -- CONTINUOUS
We are front and center in the world-renown Silver State Ballroom as SOLSTICE kicks off with red, white and blue pyro and fireworks. James Brown’s 'Livin’ in America' is blasting through the sound system, getting a huge pop from the thousands in attendance. GASTON GILLET walks out from the tunnel, followed by ARIANNA MANNING, both dressed in matching and sequined American-themed outfits (stars and stripes all the way, baby), of course fitted to their body type just the way any good outfit should be. As the crowd cheers, Gaston helps Arianna to the ring and she scampers to fetch him a microphone, throwing it to him which in amazement to everyone Gillet actually catches it and bellows out.
GASTON GILLET
BONJOUR, UPRISING! BIENVENUE TO SOLSTICE! HOW IS EVERYBODY DOING TONIGHT?!
He offers the crowd a chance to roar out the response to the welcome and damn near blinds them with a broad pearly white smile before going on.
GASTON GILLET
I know it’s been hectic lately with all sorts of things going on in here in Reno but nothing, and I mean nothing makes me happier than being here tonight with each and every one of you fine people, be it in attendance or watching this around the world. It’s great to be back home in the beautiful....RENO, NEVADA!
Surprisingly loud reaction from the fans, which he absorbs happily before going on.
GASTON GILLET
Tonight is not just any right for UPRISING. It is SOLSTICE... the big show... the THIRD big show and everybody knows the Summer can’t really start before solstice. We are turning up the heat tonight with some history-making, record-breaking classics-in-the-making matches, here on this magical date of June 12th, 2021!
The crowd pops again.
GASTON GILLET
Mais, oui! Yes, my friends! I couldn’t be more excited and not just because yours truly is in the Main Event: Terrordome 3.0, baby!
His smile seems to dim just a little, tone shifting to more serious notes.
GASTON GILLET
10 great competitors, the biggest prize in the company and leading up to tonight everyone and their dog has had an opinion on who should win this match, who deserves what and who has earned what. There have been many comments about who should be in this match and who shouldn’t. Now, this being America, people have the freedom of speech and thought, everyone is entitled to their opinion but I can’t help but feel a bit disappointed, heartbroken even, just a little.
He shows how little by his left index finger and thumb as Arianna pats him on the back, trying to comfort him as he goes on, mouthing "you can do this".
GASTON GILLET
You see there are some great people in this match, decorated people, successful here there and everywhere each with their own accolades and claims. I doubt anyone got thrown into a match like this as a joke or as a filler. You know why I think that, because gosh darn it this is the United States of America and here everyone deserves a shot, everyone gets a chance where all people are created equal so to hear some of the remarks of my peers, my fellow contenders in this match and the way they dismiss me, my talent and the sacrifices I have made to be part of not just this company but this very match that can take years from one’s career of one’s very life and they are trying to tell me that I do not belong to this match!
He says all of that in one big rush, the indignance echoed by a murmur through the crowd.
GASTON GILLET
Do you think that I could not win it just as well as anyone else? Do you people think it’s true?
Crowd responds with a emphatic NO despite there being some loud yet separate YES cheers from the fans. Gillet arches a brow.
GASTON GILLET
I see we have some unpatriotic haters in attendance as well tonight. Well, since you are in a free country, you have a right to your opinion and in America you won’t be thrown into some unnamed prison to be tortured or worse, we don’t do crap like that in the good ol’ US of A! I’ve heard people criticize me before for not being American and it hurts me. It hurts me because it’s not like I came to this country to leech off the hard-working American taxpayer, to take all the dollars and benefits I can and just sit on my ample ass and do nothing. No, I came here to work and work I have. Nobody works harder in this company than Gaston Gillet. I am out there each and every night for you, the fans, win or lose I’m always there to provide you a show. When the so-called bigger stars are too busy to get to their social media, to their pools and bikini shoots, their cookouts and barbecues or just to brood in the utility closets and boiler rooms, Gaston Gillet... your main man... Le Double G is there for you. I sign merchandise, pose for pictures, give hugs and even record voicemail messages to you and your friends who couldn’t make it here in person.
He gasps as if he realizes something.
GASTON GILLET
Speaking of which special shout out to Auntie Marie in Palookaville, Montana who’s at home recovering from a hip surgery. You are a fighter and your nieces and nephews can’t wait to bring you out to the 4th of July cookout. Come on, folks, let’s make her night! How about a little shout out to Auntie Marie?
CROWD
AUNTIE-MARY! *CLAP CLAP CLAP* AUNTIE-MARY!
GASTON GILLET
See, this. THIS right here is why I love you, my fellow Americans because you understand just what it means to be united as a nation. Not like those less fortunate places around the world torn up by hatred and prejudice and some other undemocratic activity. Which is why it upsets me to realize that my fellow contenders, people I hold in the utmost, highest regard, mind you... treat me like crap, like an afterthought!
Arianna taps his shoulder and whispers something in his ear.
GASTON GILLET
Well yes, a voluptuous, muscle-bulging and sexy hunk of an afterthought but an afterthought nonetheless. Can you believe that there are actually some of the people in that match who dare to call me UN-American?
Miss Manning gasps in terror.
GASTON GILLET
I know! I love America, America loves me! I work ever so hard every day in, every day out! I bleed, cry, sweat and push myself for the better of this great nation and some people treat me like I am some disgusting, slimy Frenchman!
Crowd boos and Gaston holds up a hand to shush them.
GASTON GILLET
Even if I was one, though, remember what it says on the Statue of Liberty: "bring me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse your teeming shore". Think about that. Americans, who came to this country wanting liberty, yearning for freedom and fought for their independence from the evil oppressive king and his hordes of redcoats. Who aligned forces with them? The French, Who was it who gave America the great gift that is not one of the most recognized symbols of this great nation, Lady Liberty herself? The French. So if were I not a red-white-and-blue blooded-American, I’d rather be French than someone who denies the morals and values this; the greatest nation of all is built up on. Because sure my wins and losses columns are not exactly equal however I have held championships elsewhere and isn’t that what is so great about America that anyone, from any given point if they push themselves, if they work hard enough, setting their mind, body, heart and soul to it can achieve anything. The greatest success stories of this country have all started from a vision, a dream, a glimmer of hope for something better. That is what TERRORDOME 3.0 should be about: that any single one of those 10 people involved is a possible champion at the end of the night. So for all of those who doubt me, dismiss me and mock me...how dare you call yourselves Americans, how dare you call yourselves even human. When Michael Marou, a hero of our armed forces, went missing, did any of you so called champions and superstars do a thing to help find him? No, I did that, because I cared about him! Because I care about every single American, love them like my own, love this country like my own because doggone it, this is my home! I am an American and the reason people mock me is because I make them realize that they are not proud, they are not patriotic they do not appreciate the sacrifices that have been made so they can throw their noses up in the air to mock others. They do not appreciate all the work put into making sure they can freely go on social media... like, retweet and share whatever disgusting views they might have and that this great country and it’s great people will still stand with them in solidarity, acknowledging their right to say all that crap!
Gillet seems a bit worked up, starting to pace as he rants. Arianna walks up beside him agian, putting her hand reassuringly on his shoulder. He wipes something from the corner of his eye and goes on, trying to steady his voice.
GASTON GILLET
So tonight, right here at SOLSTICE, I am inviting all of you to follow along to my red, white and blue road to chase the great American Dream, to show the rest of the world just why America is the leader of the free world! Are you with me, Reno?
CROWD
U-S-A!
GASTON GILLET
Are you ready to see just what some good ol’ American asskicking looks like?!
CROWD
U-S-A!
GASTON GILLET
Are you ready to rally behind YOUR champion to topple that evil Dutchman who is holding OUR UPRISING CHAMPIONSHIP hostage?!
CROWD
U-S-A!
GASTON GILLET
You are goddamn right!
With that he slams the microphone down, holds up his arms and Arianna gestures at him as the crowd just keeps on chanting for the USA while the show fades into the opening video.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP CONTENDERS
SOCIALITES vs BLOOD DIAMONDS
Danielle's looking for a quick finish even as the bell is still ringing and she grabs Amadeus, attempting to send him packing to the ropes with an Irish whip – DENIED WITH AN ELBOW TO THE FACE THAT LEAVES HER REELING! Snapmare into a dropkick and the tide seems to have turned already. Danielle stumbles back to her feet and right into Coleman's clutches – SNAP SUPLEX AND SHE'S DOWN AGAIN. Popping back up, Page is determined, and she collides with Amadeus again, absorbing his shoulder block and then she's caught his arm and he's on the canvas thanks to a lightning-quick armdrag. She goes for a crossface – elbow to the head and Coleman dives into the corner for a hot tag to Isaiah Jackson! Danielle dives towards her corner, missing her sister's outstretched hand by inches as Jackson grabs her by the hair and slams her down. He goes for a mudhole stomping – WHAT A REVERSAL! PUNCH TO THE GROIN AND THE BIG MAN IS DOWN! This time Danielle is able to make the tag to her sister and Vanessa launches over the ropes, hitting Jackson in the chest to knock him down just as he's getting to his knees. He falls and she flips him over, choking him against the rope until she gets a warning from Neil Rana. Backing off, Vanessa knees Jackson in the back of the head and then slaps hands with her sister. She picks up Jackson's legs – BEAUTY TREATMENT! Vanessa turns and cuts off Amadeus as he starts to enter the ring, peppering him with strikes as Danielle drags Jackson out from the corner – springboard senton and she's hooked the leg!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL) AND NEW TAG TITLE #1 CONTENDERS: THE SOCIALITES
CUT TO:
INT. ELDORADO CASINO -- CPP HQ
As the view shifts from ringside, we find ourselves inside the hotel room that CFH had rented out for the Cowgirl Protection Program and have redecorated into an office setting (as well as a private dressing room). It's no shock after the incident at Dirty Dozen that has MAD MAX out indefinitely with a very serious concussion. MEGHAN, TAMIKA, and CARA walk into the office not at all surprised to see the camera crew present since they requested to have them meet the future Trios Champions. The Strader Matriarch stands in front of the desk with her sister on her right and her daughter on her left. They are dressed in their street clothes inspired gear of the normal blue jeans, vintage t-shirts and cowgirl boots with the sisters wearing the REVOLUTION1 WRESTLING TAG TEAM STRAPS. They look focused and ready for the challenge ahead of them this evening.
MEGHAN STRADER
Last week was meant to be a celebration. The greatness that is us allowed me to present my sister with the other half of the Revolution1 Wrestling tag team championships.
Both sisters look down at their gold and look back up with smiles.
MEGHAN STRADER
My daughter got her first win in her singles debut against LOVERBOY, giving us a mental advantage over the BROTHERS BUSCH. It was a night that started so well and ended horribly when BRAD JACKSON confirmed the stoner kid’s story of Maxine being attacked. We promised Maxine we would avenge her and god help the bastards when we are face to face with him. We will make the bastard bleed for doing such a cowardly attack, and we know it was you BIG SAM. I have seen the security camera feed. Mark my words, you overweight abusive prick, I will end you. WE will end you.
Meghan’s upper lip begins to curl into a sneer as Tamika takes over knowing her big sister well enough to know she was about ready to explode.
TAMIKA STRADER
This has become much more than a simple path to the ultimate goal of being crowned the first Trios Champions… you decided along the way that taking a member of CFH out of the equation was going to give you some kinda edge, I bet. Not ever stopping to consider who would replace Max in this situation…
CARA STRADER
But dun dun dun dunnnnnn...
(singing)
🎵Here I come to save the day!🎵
Meghan and Tamika chuckle at Cara’s impression of Jim Carey as Andy Kaufman from Man on the Moon, little dance and arm pointing included. Go see it if you haven’t. Brilliant! Oh right, the Cowgirls.
MEGHAN STRADER
My own flesh and blood has already gained one up you boys. The rookie wins in her debut trios match and the following rounds it out even with a singles victory over LOVERBOY. Tonight we are adding yet another ‘W’ to our record and if everything goes to plan, I have a special surprise that will blow everyone's mind. DIAMOND, RUBY STEELE, EMERALD and SAPPHIRE… tonight you are going to ask yourself: what is that sound? Tamika, care to tell them what that sound is?
Before Tamika can answer our favourite stoner Strader beats her aunt to the punch!
CARA STRADER
Hoofbeats fothermuckers! Boom! Cause we takin’ over this town, suckkkkassss!
Cara gives a small pelvic thrust. Tamika shrugs and uses her thumb to point at Cara.
TAMIKA STRADER
What the kid said.
Pelvic thrust. Meghan shakes her head and allows herself a moment levity before bringing it back to a serious tone.
MEGHAN STRADER
And remember… God forgives. We don’t.
Meghan answers with a pelvic thrust and a wink. The matriarch motions for the camera crew to leave as we fade to an ad for Splat programming that hopefully contains less pelvic thrusts.
_____________________________________________
MEGHAN STRADER
Last week was meant to be a celebration. The greatness that is us allowed me to present my sister with the other half of the Revolution1 Wrestling tag team championships.
Both sisters look down at their gold and look back up with smiles.
MEGHAN STRADER
My daughter got her first win in her singles debut against LOVERBOY, giving us a mental advantage over the BROTHERS BUSCH. It was a night that started so well and ended horribly when BRAD JACKSON confirmed the stoner kid’s story of Maxine being attacked. We promised Maxine we would avenge her and god help the bastards when we are face to face with him. We will make the bastard bleed for doing such a cowardly attack, and we know it was you BIG SAM. I have seen the security camera feed. Mark my words, you overweight abusive prick, I will end you. WE will end you.
Meghan’s upper lip begins to curl into a sneer as Tamika takes over knowing her big sister well enough to know she was about ready to explode.
TAMIKA STRADER
This has become much more than a simple path to the ultimate goal of being crowned the first Trios Champions… you decided along the way that taking a member of CFH out of the equation was going to give you some kinda edge, I bet. Not ever stopping to consider who would replace Max in this situation…
CARA STRADER
But dun dun dun dunnnnnn...
(singing)
🎵Here I come to save the day!🎵
Meghan and Tamika chuckle at Cara’s impression of Jim Carey as Andy Kaufman from Man on the Moon, little dance and arm pointing included. Go see it if you haven’t. Brilliant! Oh right, the Cowgirls.
MEGHAN STRADER
My own flesh and blood has already gained one up you boys. The rookie wins in her debut trios match and the following rounds it out even with a singles victory over LOVERBOY. Tonight we are adding yet another ‘W’ to our record and if everything goes to plan, I have a special surprise that will blow everyone's mind. DIAMOND, RUBY STEELE, EMERALD and SAPPHIRE… tonight you are going to ask yourself: what is that sound? Tamika, care to tell them what that sound is?
Before Tamika can answer our favourite stoner Strader beats her aunt to the punch!
CARA STRADER
Hoofbeats fothermuckers! Boom! Cause we takin’ over this town, suckkkkassss!
Cara gives a small pelvic thrust. Tamika shrugs and uses her thumb to point at Cara.
TAMIKA STRADER
What the kid said.
Pelvic thrust. Meghan shakes her head and allows herself a moment levity before bringing it back to a serious tone.
MEGHAN STRADER
And remember… God forgives. We don’t.
Meghan answers with a pelvic thrust and a wink. The matriarch motions for the camera crew to leave as we fade to an ad for Splat programming that hopefully contains less pelvic thrusts.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
EXT. PARTS UNKNOWN
A nondescript metal door sits at the end of a dimly lit corridor, a huge padlock hanging from its handle, barring it shut. A voice speaks from behind the camera.
VOICEOVER
WELCOME TO THE DEEPEST, DARKEST DEPTHS OF HELL... WHERE THE SCARIEST AND MOST DANGEROUS SPECIMENS OF DEATH AND DESTRUCTION ARE HELD.
The camera zooms from the door a bit as a bright chuckle can be heard from behind it and into the view skips Queenie, the unhinged alter ego of Jennifer Rivers.
QUEENIE
Just kidding, this is just my house. But that door… well, that door leads to the basement that brother dearest spends most of his days in, that is when he isn’t crushing fools on some island somewhere or kidnapping kids to make a statement. And as you can see, I’ve padlocked it shut to fill the requirements of the Monster's Ball. Only way in, only way out. I mean… that door is six inches thick of solid steel and that chain is the most heavy-duty one I’ve found and I still think that if brother dearest chooses to leave his seclusion, he can do it. He never ceases to surprise me with his strength. And I’ve known him all his life.
Queenie giggles and leans against the door.
QUEENIE
But seriously. This whole thing between him and Puddin' has gotten way out of hand. And honestly? Bradley-boo made a huge mistake actually booking this match because NEITHER will walk out under their own power. Hell, if Puddin' has any sense left in him, he’s gonna kill brother dearest. Because if he doesn’t? Well after what he did, the card he pulled out… let’s just say brother dearest isn’t exactly in a forgiving mood.
She sighs.
QUEENIE
Me personally? I’m hoping the two don’t kill each other, but get as close to it as possible. A good six-month stay in a hospital would do BOTH of them some good. Let them chill out. But alas, I doubt that’s gonna happen. So later tonight it’s gonna be a bloodbath and pudding? You just dun goofed. This isn’t the end. This… is just the beginning. Toodeloo!
The view fades to black.
VOICEOVER
WELCOME TO THE DEEPEST, DARKEST DEPTHS OF HELL... WHERE THE SCARIEST AND MOST DANGEROUS SPECIMENS OF DEATH AND DESTRUCTION ARE HELD.
The camera zooms from the door a bit as a bright chuckle can be heard from behind it and into the view skips Queenie, the unhinged alter ego of Jennifer Rivers.
QUEENIE
Just kidding, this is just my house. But that door… well, that door leads to the basement that brother dearest spends most of his days in, that is when he isn’t crushing fools on some island somewhere or kidnapping kids to make a statement. And as you can see, I’ve padlocked it shut to fill the requirements of the Monster's Ball. Only way in, only way out. I mean… that door is six inches thick of solid steel and that chain is the most heavy-duty one I’ve found and I still think that if brother dearest chooses to leave his seclusion, he can do it. He never ceases to surprise me with his strength. And I’ve known him all his life.
Queenie giggles and leans against the door.
QUEENIE
But seriously. This whole thing between him and Puddin' has gotten way out of hand. And honestly? Bradley-boo made a huge mistake actually booking this match because NEITHER will walk out under their own power. Hell, if Puddin' has any sense left in him, he’s gonna kill brother dearest. Because if he doesn’t? Well after what he did, the card he pulled out… let’s just say brother dearest isn’t exactly in a forgiving mood.
She sighs.
QUEENIE
Me personally? I’m hoping the two don’t kill each other, but get as close to it as possible. A good six-month stay in a hospital would do BOTH of them some good. Let them chill out. But alas, I doubt that’s gonna happen. So later tonight it’s gonna be a bloodbath and pudding? You just dun goofed. This isn’t the end. This… is just the beginning. Toodeloo!
The view fades to black.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
TOTAL ANARCHY MATCH
MAC BANE vs HAYAHIKO
For the Total Anarchy match, the ring has been surrounded by an array of different weapons. Hayahiko stands across from Mac Bane, holding a bottle of Jim Beam that he takes a lengthy pull from. He goes to bash Mac in the face with it..BUT MAC BANE CATCHES HIS ARM! HE RIPS THE BOTTLE AWAY...AND DOWNS THE REST WHILE HAYAHIKO STRUGGLES IN HIS GRIP!! Mac turns his gaze back to Hayahiko...AND BASHES THE BOTTLE INTO HIS FACE!! GLASS GOES EVERYWHERE! Mac does not release the grip, yanking Hayahiko in and launching him with a massive belly to belly suplex, releasing him and sending the younger fighter flying over the top rope! He doesn’t clear it though, spinning sickly and landing on his head on the outside! Mac shows no mercy though, following Hayahiko out and instantly going about setting up a table. He turns and lifts Hayahiko, and powerslams him onto a nearby stack of chairs! Hayahiko screams in pain as Mac stands up and goes back to the table.
He reaches under the ring and produces a pillow case….out of it he pulls a can of LIGHTER FLUID, MATCHES...and now he’s pouring the rest of the contents on the table...ITS THUMBTACKS!!! Mac spreads the tacks evenly, then empties the lighter fluid out onto them and the table. He turns to find Hayahiko is back up and promptly knocks him down again with a big boot! He then strikes a match and lights the table on fire! Mac turns to find Hayahiko up again and the younger fighter is swinging for all he’s worth! HE JUST WON'T DIE!
Hayahiko sends stiff kicks into Mac’s hip and ribs! He catches him in the chin with a roundhouse! Mac stumbles lightly back toward the flaming table. Hayahiko backs up and charges in..BUT MAC CATCHES HIM! SPINEBUSTER THROUGH THE FLAMING TABLE AND INTO THE THUMBTACKS!! HAYAHIKO SCREAMS AND ROLLS AWAY FROM THE FLAMES! HE PULLS HIMSELF UP AND IS QUAKING! HIS BACK IS BURNED AND FILLED WITH TACKS! HE TURNS AND...THE BAR! BIG SPEAR BY BANE WHO STANDS AND SETS A FOOT ON HAYAHIKO'S CHEST!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
He reaches under the ring and produces a pillow case….out of it he pulls a can of LIGHTER FLUID, MATCHES...and now he’s pouring the rest of the contents on the table...ITS THUMBTACKS!!! Mac spreads the tacks evenly, then empties the lighter fluid out onto them and the table. He turns to find Hayahiko is back up and promptly knocks him down again with a big boot! He then strikes a match and lights the table on fire! Mac turns to find Hayahiko up again and the younger fighter is swinging for all he’s worth! HE JUST WON'T DIE!
Hayahiko sends stiff kicks into Mac’s hip and ribs! He catches him in the chin with a roundhouse! Mac stumbles lightly back toward the flaming table. Hayahiko backs up and charges in..BUT MAC CATCHES HIM! SPINEBUSTER THROUGH THE FLAMING TABLE AND INTO THE THUMBTACKS!! HAYAHIKO SCREAMS AND ROLLS AWAY FROM THE FLAMES! HE PULLS HIMSELF UP AND IS QUAKING! HIS BACK IS BURNED AND FILLED WITH TACKS! HE TURNS AND...THE BAR! BIG SPEAR BY BANE WHO STANDS AND SETS A FOOT ON HAYAHIKO'S CHEST!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): MAC BANE
CUT TO:
EXT. NOWHERE NEAR RENO, NEVADA
The words RECORDED EARLIER TODAY flash across the screen as the camera cuts on to reveal the only thing drearier than the English Countryside. A lonely, isolated cemetery in the English Countryside. The camera is focused on an old stone mausoleum with the name "KNIGHT" etched in the marble above the doorway, currently sealed and with a man in an UPRISING T-shirt seated by it.
UNKNOWN
So many people act like they know him, but really even the most educated are only educated in what he’s willing to reveal.
The voice, that of a young woman breaks the silence but not the drear as it is weighted with fatigue, worry...and love. Soon, the frame is filled with the demure figure of HOPE KNOX. Her blonde hair falls freely over her shoulders, clad in a leather jacket not unlike her father’s, an UPRISING t-shirt and a pair of jeans.
HOPE KNOX
For months now, the man known as Thomas Rivers has terrorized my father. All over words lost in the ether of Twitter. He stalked me in Baltimore, and had it not been for Amber Ryan, who knows what he would have done to my stepmother and baby sister..
Her face, usually placid, cracks with a twitch in the corner of her mouth. Ice blue eyes look over toward the crypt, then back to the camera.
HOPE KNOX
I want what's best for dad. I want him to achieve his goals so he can hang his boots up in peace, so that maybe his next forty years are calm for once. No more fighting, no endless wars with people like you and your sister, Tom...but in Reno?
She shakes her head.
HOPE KNOX
I wanted so bad for his better angels to win out. But now I see that there is no room for halos in whatever this is. So, let me tell you this, Thomas Rivers. You don’t frighten me anymore. You never frightened him. At SOLSTICE? You get what you asked for, what you refused to think he was capable of. What he does? What you endure? You’ll have no one to blame...not even your idiot sister. So, plainly?
Hope holds out an arm, and suddenly a smaller, younger woman walks into the shot. Her hair is jet black like Matthews, her eyes glasz as well. Her face is near identical, as is her stare. After a beat, she speaks up in a voice both deadpan and youthful.
IVY KNOX
I hope he kills you.
There's a flash of horror on Hope's face before the feed cuts to black.
UNKNOWN
So many people act like they know him, but really even the most educated are only educated in what he’s willing to reveal.
The voice, that of a young woman breaks the silence but not the drear as it is weighted with fatigue, worry...and love. Soon, the frame is filled with the demure figure of HOPE KNOX. Her blonde hair falls freely over her shoulders, clad in a leather jacket not unlike her father’s, an UPRISING t-shirt and a pair of jeans.
HOPE KNOX
For months now, the man known as Thomas Rivers has terrorized my father. All over words lost in the ether of Twitter. He stalked me in Baltimore, and had it not been for Amber Ryan, who knows what he would have done to my stepmother and baby sister..
Her face, usually placid, cracks with a twitch in the corner of her mouth. Ice blue eyes look over toward the crypt, then back to the camera.
HOPE KNOX
I want what's best for dad. I want him to achieve his goals so he can hang his boots up in peace, so that maybe his next forty years are calm for once. No more fighting, no endless wars with people like you and your sister, Tom...but in Reno?
She shakes her head.
HOPE KNOX
I wanted so bad for his better angels to win out. But now I see that there is no room for halos in whatever this is. So, let me tell you this, Thomas Rivers. You don’t frighten me anymore. You never frightened him. At SOLSTICE? You get what you asked for, what you refused to think he was capable of. What he does? What you endure? You’ll have no one to blame...not even your idiot sister. So, plainly?
Hope holds out an arm, and suddenly a smaller, younger woman walks into the shot. Her hair is jet black like Matthews, her eyes glasz as well. Her face is near identical, as is her stare. After a beat, she speaks up in a voice both deadpan and youthful.
IVY KNOX
I hope he kills you.
There's a flash of horror on Hope's face before the feed cuts to black.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
TRIOS CHAMPIONSHIP CONTENDER ROUND 1
COWGIRLS FROM HELL vs THE GEM STONES
Diamond and Meghan start it off, circling each other before heading into a quick grapple. Meghan twists Diamond's right arm and then hits her quickly with a Russian leg sweep to take her down and out. She's up quickly and tags in Tamika who puts herself on the top rope. Shooting star press on Diamond! The crowd ignites into cheers as Diamond reels from the attack as Tamika gets to her feet but Diamond quickly spins her left leg, sweeping Tamika off of her feet. She brings her right leg up while still on her back and chops it down over Tamika's throat winding her momentarily. It gives Diamond enough time to tag in Ruby Steele.
Ruby steps in over the top rope and Tamika looks up unafraid at the Gem Stone. Tamika bounces herself off the ropes and goes for a body splash but Ruby simply catches her, spins herself around and body slams her HARD into the canvas. Ruby gets back to her feet and picks her up by her hair and whips her into the ropes, but Cara tags herself in amidst the confusion. Ruby puts out her arm and catches Tamika with a clothesline so hard she does a complete flip in the air before hitting the canvas. However Cara is already on the top rope and jumps off, landing on Ruby Steele face with her feet in a missile dropkick which causes Ruby to stumble back into the corner. Sapphire quietly tags herself in as Tamika and Cara team up and double clothesline Ruby over the top rope. Sapphire grabs Tamika from outside the apron and lifts her up with a snap suplex over the top rope and onto the outside, accidentally right onto Ruby Steele. Meghan confirms with the referee that Sapphire is in fact the legal woman of the other team and waits as she climbs back into the ring. Meghan is tagged in by Cara and comes in with a flying lariat that just barely catches the quick moving Sapphire. Sapphire spins in dizziness as out of no where Meghan kicks her straight into the gut and BANG!
Later in the match THE GEM STONES are full in control and begin working over the rookie Strader, Cara. Diamond plants her with a DDT and then rolls her through, leaving her seated up and right in front of Ruby who snatches her up in one hand. Diamond then lifts her up with a two-handed chokelift before burying her into the mat with a spinebuster. Cara's skull shatters against the mat and Ruby leaves her laying, pointing out toward Sapphire who comes off the top-rope with a scintillating acrobatic display that brings her down hard on top of Cara and knocking her clean out. Diamond makes who makes the cover
ONE!
TW—NO!
Meghan with the save!
Diamond is starting to look upset as she gets to her feet and drops a few kicks among Cara’s ribs, Ruby then joins her, seeming to take a little extra pleasure in getting a chance to put the boots to the rookie. The two then get her to her feet and whip her to the ropes, but that proves to be their undoing as Meghan is able to get tagged in and the Gem Stones have no idea she did. Tamika slides into the ring, laying out Diamond with a clothesline as Meghan leaps off the top rope with a missile dropkick aimed right at the head of Ruby Steele. Cara getting her wits back about her is of sound mind to take out Sapphire on the ring apron as Tamika lifts Diamond up onto her shoulders. Meghan points to the sky and the fans erupt as she hops up back onto the top turnbuckle and flies off with a vicious clothesline to Diamond who was on Tamika’s shoulders. Meghan hooks the leg as Tamika and Cara hold off Ruby and Sapphire as they come to a few seconds too late.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Ruby steps in over the top rope and Tamika looks up unafraid at the Gem Stone. Tamika bounces herself off the ropes and goes for a body splash but Ruby simply catches her, spins herself around and body slams her HARD into the canvas. Ruby gets back to her feet and picks her up by her hair and whips her into the ropes, but Cara tags herself in amidst the confusion. Ruby puts out her arm and catches Tamika with a clothesline so hard she does a complete flip in the air before hitting the canvas. However Cara is already on the top rope and jumps off, landing on Ruby Steele face with her feet in a missile dropkick which causes Ruby to stumble back into the corner. Sapphire quietly tags herself in as Tamika and Cara team up and double clothesline Ruby over the top rope. Sapphire grabs Tamika from outside the apron and lifts her up with a snap suplex over the top rope and onto the outside, accidentally right onto Ruby Steele. Meghan confirms with the referee that Sapphire is in fact the legal woman of the other team and waits as she climbs back into the ring. Meghan is tagged in by Cara and comes in with a flying lariat that just barely catches the quick moving Sapphire. Sapphire spins in dizziness as out of no where Meghan kicks her straight into the gut and BANG!
Later in the match THE GEM STONES are full in control and begin working over the rookie Strader, Cara. Diamond plants her with a DDT and then rolls her through, leaving her seated up and right in front of Ruby who snatches her up in one hand. Diamond then lifts her up with a two-handed chokelift before burying her into the mat with a spinebuster. Cara's skull shatters against the mat and Ruby leaves her laying, pointing out toward Sapphire who comes off the top-rope with a scintillating acrobatic display that brings her down hard on top of Cara and knocking her clean out. Diamond makes who makes the cover
ONE!
TW—NO!
Meghan with the save!
Diamond is starting to look upset as she gets to her feet and drops a few kicks among Cara’s ribs, Ruby then joins her, seeming to take a little extra pleasure in getting a chance to put the boots to the rookie. The two then get her to her feet and whip her to the ropes, but that proves to be their undoing as Meghan is able to get tagged in and the Gem Stones have no idea she did. Tamika slides into the ring, laying out Diamond with a clothesline as Meghan leaps off the top rope with a missile dropkick aimed right at the head of Ruby Steele. Cara getting her wits back about her is of sound mind to take out Sapphire on the ring apron as Tamika lifts Diamond up onto her shoulders. Meghan points to the sky and the fans erupt as she hops up back onto the top turnbuckle and flies off with a vicious clothesline to Diamond who was on Tamika’s shoulders. Meghan hooks the leg as Tamika and Cara hold off Ruby and Sapphire as they come to a few seconds too late.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): COWGIRLS FROM HELL
CUT TO:
INT. BACKSTAGE -- CONTINUOUS
It's a few feet from catering, where it's nice and quiet for the moment and the view finds NICO PAZZINI, RICKY RHODES AND VINCENZO RIINA skulking about. Suddenly Nico Ludovico Pazzini, the head of the group, holds up his hands.
NICO PAZZINI
OHHHH! HOLD UP A BIT.
The trio swerve in a on the lonesome blonde sitting by herself on one of the production crates.
NICO PAZZINI
How you doin’?!
He flashes a lewd smirk at her; she just slaps him across the face.
IGNIS
LEWD!
NICO PAZZINI
OWWWW!!
He stumbles back and Ricky steps up.
RICKY RHODES
Look Miss Ignis, we mean no harm. We are just here to make you an offer you can’t refuse and..
Before he gets a chance to finish, Ignis kicks him back and the silent brute that is Vincenzo steps up, smiling at her. A moment passes in silence as she looks him over before nodding.
IGNIS
Now you, I like.
She turns to the rather more talkative pair.
IGNIS
So what’s up? I know you guys have a showdown with LEGION’s flunkies tonight. That guy rubs me the wrong way. Hopefully I’ll get a chance to make him tap tonight in the TERRORDOME 3.0. I’ve never made a supposed GOD tap before.
RICKY RHODES
Weren’t you called "The Wrestling God" at one point?
IGNIS
Yeah, but I never made myself tap! Besides, wasn’t really that marketable. Hey, you guys want some merch?
NICO PAZZINI
What did it fall off of a truck?!
She just stares at him.
RICKY RHODES
He means, is it discounted?
IGNIS
For YOU guys?
NICO PAZZINI
Look, we like you, Ignis but if you make trouble for us, if you charge us too high, if you go around with too covering ring gear... we gonna have a problem!
IGNIS
WHAT?!?
NICO PAZZINI
You heard what I said! YOU FUCKING SKIFOUZA!
Ignis tilts her head to one side.
IGNIS
I don’t know what that is, but it sounds more like Undine. Look, do me a solid and smack up those cultists. Cults make me uncomfortable.
Nico fixes his fur coat, showing off his tan & tattoos.
NICO PAZZINI
Don’t worry about them Segrasis. They wanna call dem selves da church of da 7th circle, tonight they are going against TRINACRIA, the holy trinity of Sicily and if they wanna act like a church, we’ll give them a religious experience. They just might meet Jesus!
IGNIS
Wow? He’s pretty famous, you sure that would happen?
Ricky Rhodes, dressed to impress with his Hawaiian shirt, painted slacks and loafers, fixes his hair.
RICKY RHODES
Forgetaboutit, the fact of the mater is that these mooks think they are a unit, they think they got a chance against us but in the end, I don’t care how close you are. Your friends are gonna let you down. Family, they are the only ones you can rely on.
We see NICO’s eyes bulge as he looks at Ricky.
NICO PAZZINI
Family, what fucking family are we to you, huh? We are Sicilianos Rick, you a Americgano.
Rhodes glares at Pazzini.
RICKY RHODES
Wanna tell your auntie Camilla that, you fucking fanook?!
IGNIS
I mean... he’s right. You don’t make a convincing Sicilian at all. But you know what? You don’t have to be. A good friend of mine once told me that you don’t need to conform to fit in. Let people love you for who you really are. You can BELONG.
Rhodes glares at her.
RICKY RHODES
You trying to say I am not Siciliano like you got room to talk. Aren’t your ancestors the ones fucking sheep?
IGNIS
Mab ast! That’s the bloody Scots!
NICO PAZZINI
I apologize for him. He has no manners.
(leaning against the wall with a smarmy grin)
How you doin’?
She looks over at Vincenzo.
IGNIS
Hey Big Man, want a beanie?
Vincenzo Riina walks over to get a Luchadrok beanie hat. He goes to pull out his wallet, but Ignis waves him off.
IGNIS
Forgetaboutit!
She pinches Vincenzo’s cheek.
IGNIS
Be a good boy and send those muddafuckas a message, from da Luchadork, capiche?
Vincenzo Riina nods, fixing his beanie while Nico and Ricky gawk at the display.
RICKY RHODES
So he ignores us, but does what SHE SAYS?!
Nico throws his arms up.
NICO PAZZINI
DIS FAKING GUY!
IGNIS
Look, I’m gonna go get ready for my match. YOU TWO...
She points at Ricky and Nico.
IGNIS
You keep working to be real men like your pal Vinnie here. And don’t screw this match up. And you...
She turns to Vincenzo, blushing a little.
IGNIS
Call me.
With that the Luchadork skips off.
NICO PAZZINI
FAGIN Buchiach...
RICKY RHODES
Forgetaboutit!
Vincenzo Riina tilts his beanie, heading for the ring. We cut back to ringside.
NICO PAZZINI
OHHHH! HOLD UP A BIT.
The trio swerve in a on the lonesome blonde sitting by herself on one of the production crates.
NICO PAZZINI
How you doin’?!
He flashes a lewd smirk at her; she just slaps him across the face.
IGNIS
LEWD!
NICO PAZZINI
OWWWW!!
He stumbles back and Ricky steps up.
RICKY RHODES
Look Miss Ignis, we mean no harm. We are just here to make you an offer you can’t refuse and..
Before he gets a chance to finish, Ignis kicks him back and the silent brute that is Vincenzo steps up, smiling at her. A moment passes in silence as she looks him over before nodding.
IGNIS
Now you, I like.
She turns to the rather more talkative pair.
IGNIS
So what’s up? I know you guys have a showdown with LEGION’s flunkies tonight. That guy rubs me the wrong way. Hopefully I’ll get a chance to make him tap tonight in the TERRORDOME 3.0. I’ve never made a supposed GOD tap before.
RICKY RHODES
Weren’t you called "The Wrestling God" at one point?
IGNIS
Yeah, but I never made myself tap! Besides, wasn’t really that marketable. Hey, you guys want some merch?
NICO PAZZINI
What did it fall off of a truck?!
She just stares at him.
RICKY RHODES
He means, is it discounted?
IGNIS
For YOU guys?
NICO PAZZINI
Look, we like you, Ignis but if you make trouble for us, if you charge us too high, if you go around with too covering ring gear... we gonna have a problem!
IGNIS
WHAT?!?
NICO PAZZINI
You heard what I said! YOU FUCKING SKIFOUZA!
Ignis tilts her head to one side.
IGNIS
I don’t know what that is, but it sounds more like Undine. Look, do me a solid and smack up those cultists. Cults make me uncomfortable.
Nico fixes his fur coat, showing off his tan & tattoos.
NICO PAZZINI
Don’t worry about them Segrasis. They wanna call dem selves da church of da 7th circle, tonight they are going against TRINACRIA, the holy trinity of Sicily and if they wanna act like a church, we’ll give them a religious experience. They just might meet Jesus!
IGNIS
Wow? He’s pretty famous, you sure that would happen?
Ricky Rhodes, dressed to impress with his Hawaiian shirt, painted slacks and loafers, fixes his hair.
RICKY RHODES
Forgetaboutit, the fact of the mater is that these mooks think they are a unit, they think they got a chance against us but in the end, I don’t care how close you are. Your friends are gonna let you down. Family, they are the only ones you can rely on.
We see NICO’s eyes bulge as he looks at Ricky.
NICO PAZZINI
Family, what fucking family are we to you, huh? We are Sicilianos Rick, you a Americgano.
Rhodes glares at Pazzini.
RICKY RHODES
Wanna tell your auntie Camilla that, you fucking fanook?!
IGNIS
I mean... he’s right. You don’t make a convincing Sicilian at all. But you know what? You don’t have to be. A good friend of mine once told me that you don’t need to conform to fit in. Let people love you for who you really are. You can BELONG.
Rhodes glares at her.
RICKY RHODES
You trying to say I am not Siciliano like you got room to talk. Aren’t your ancestors the ones fucking sheep?
IGNIS
Mab ast! That’s the bloody Scots!
NICO PAZZINI
I apologize for him. He has no manners.
(leaning against the wall with a smarmy grin)
How you doin’?
She looks over at Vincenzo.
IGNIS
Hey Big Man, want a beanie?
Vincenzo Riina walks over to get a Luchadrok beanie hat. He goes to pull out his wallet, but Ignis waves him off.
IGNIS
Forgetaboutit!
She pinches Vincenzo’s cheek.
IGNIS
Be a good boy and send those muddafuckas a message, from da Luchadork, capiche?
Vincenzo Riina nods, fixing his beanie while Nico and Ricky gawk at the display.
RICKY RHODES
So he ignores us, but does what SHE SAYS?!
Nico throws his arms up.
NICO PAZZINI
DIS FAKING GUY!
IGNIS
Look, I’m gonna go get ready for my match. YOU TWO...
She points at Ricky and Nico.
IGNIS
You keep working to be real men like your pal Vinnie here. And don’t screw this match up. And you...
She turns to Vincenzo, blushing a little.
IGNIS
Call me.
With that the Luchadork skips off.
NICO PAZZINI
FAGIN Buchiach...
RICKY RHODES
Forgetaboutit!
Vincenzo Riina tilts his beanie, heading for the ring. We cut back to ringside.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
SOUTHSIDE SCUFFLE MATCH: NO DQ, FALLS ANYWHERE
LIL JUICY vs RENO NEVADA vs "PC" PERCY CARTER
Before the match begins, Reno Nevada stops on his way to the ring as some fans in the front row accost him. They are all heavyset, have hair color straight from the Manic Panic aisle at Hot Topic and one particularly beefy androgynous one is wearing a homemade #WOKE t-shirt. They lean over the rail and begin screaming at Reno for his problematic and abrasive social media presence. Reno Nevada stares for a moment and then does what any sane person would do: throws his head back, roaring with laughter. This, however, incenses "PC" Percy Carter who hops out of the ring and charges Reno...ONLY TO BE TAKEN DOWN WITH A BIG HIP TOSS! Reno drags Percy up and begins laying the wood to him, driving him up the ramp. Juicy shrugs and slides out the ring, walking with a lean as he pursues his opponents. He stops by those hopping mad and red-faced fans, looks at the bootleg Percy Carter gear they've got on and says:
LIL JUICY
Who?
The camera cuts backstage where we find Reno has found a hockey fight in the desert! He’s pulled "PC" Percy Carter’s t-shirt over his head and is firing right hands up into his face. He looks up as Juicy arrives, and the two share a moment before Reno shoves Percy over to Juicy who graciously accepts the gift, instantly lifts Percy up and nails him with a powerbomb on the concrete floor! Juicy turns to high-five Reno....who nails him with a running clothesline that juices the juicy one! Stepping over his prone opponents, Reno lifts the lid on an equipment crate and begins digging through it. He pulls out a camera and laughs to himself, before turning around and focusing the lens on "PC" Percy Carter.
RENO NEVADA
Hey, cunt! Wave hi to your mama!
"PC" PERCY CARTER
Excuse me? Did you just assume the gender of one of my parental figures? How do you know I don’t come from a same-sex home? Or what if I'm adopted by asexual non-binary partners? Do better, Re-
Reno yeets the camera at Percy’s head, causing him to drop like a sack of hammers as Reno shakes his head.
RENO NEVADA
My bad. Whoever they are, I’m sure they are wonderful people who are proud of raising a man who stands by his convic--
"PC" PERCY CARTER
DID YOU JUST ASSUME MY GENDER?!
PC launches a foot up, taking Reno to dick kick city! Reno falls down, cupping the boys as PC gets up and begins to lay the boots to his face. He leaps upon the equipment crate after shutting the lid and jumps off, going for an elbow drop...BUT JUICY FLIES IN OUT OF NOWHERE WITH A SUPERKICK RIGHT IN THE KISSER! Carter crumples on the floor. Reno's down with a busted lip and Juicy goes to step over Reno and pin Carter...BUT NO! RENO ROLLS HIM UP! THE SCOUNDREL EVEN GRABS THE TIGHTS!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
LIL JUICY
Who?
The camera cuts backstage where we find Reno has found a hockey fight in the desert! He’s pulled "PC" Percy Carter’s t-shirt over his head and is firing right hands up into his face. He looks up as Juicy arrives, and the two share a moment before Reno shoves Percy over to Juicy who graciously accepts the gift, instantly lifts Percy up and nails him with a powerbomb on the concrete floor! Juicy turns to high-five Reno....who nails him with a running clothesline that juices the juicy one! Stepping over his prone opponents, Reno lifts the lid on an equipment crate and begins digging through it. He pulls out a camera and laughs to himself, before turning around and focusing the lens on "PC" Percy Carter.
RENO NEVADA
Hey, cunt! Wave hi to your mama!
"PC" PERCY CARTER
Excuse me? Did you just assume the gender of one of my parental figures? How do you know I don’t come from a same-sex home? Or what if I'm adopted by asexual non-binary partners? Do better, Re-
Reno yeets the camera at Percy’s head, causing him to drop like a sack of hammers as Reno shakes his head.
RENO NEVADA
My bad. Whoever they are, I’m sure they are wonderful people who are proud of raising a man who stands by his convic--
"PC" PERCY CARTER
DID YOU JUST ASSUME MY GENDER?!
PC launches a foot up, taking Reno to dick kick city! Reno falls down, cupping the boys as PC gets up and begins to lay the boots to his face. He leaps upon the equipment crate after shutting the lid and jumps off, going for an elbow drop...BUT JUICY FLIES IN OUT OF NOWHERE WITH A SUPERKICK RIGHT IN THE KISSER! Carter crumples on the floor. Reno's down with a busted lip and Juicy goes to step over Reno and pin Carter...BUT NO! RENO ROLLS HIM UP! THE SCOUNDREL EVEN GRABS THE TIGHTS!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): RENO NEVADA
CUT TO:
INT. BACKSTAGE -- CPP HQ
MEGHAN STRADER
That was great work, ladies. We did extremely well and we are one step closer to becoming the first Trios Champions here in UPRISING. 2021 is the year of the Cowgirl. First was the Revolution1 tag titles coming back to the rightful champions. Next, the Trios Championship!
Tamika and Cara smile while nodding in agreement with the Strader Matriarch.
TAMIKA STRADER
Also, the third show in a row my awesome niece here has won! I am very proud of you!
MEGHAN STRADER
As am I. You not only did a great job filling in for me but Max as well while she heals… you have earned a permanent spot in the Cowgirls. We love you!
CARA STRADER
D’awww... Auntie Tee, Mamabear…
Being a bit bashful, it's clear that the moment and the accomplishment aren’t lost on her stoner brain waves. Meghan brings her feet down and stands up. She hands Tamika her white leather Revo1 Tag Team Championship.
MEGHAN STRADER
Watch this for me, there is somewhere I gotta be.
Tamika’s right eyebrow goes up in a quizzical nature.
TAMIKA STRADER
Umm, you can’t leave the city except to go home. Where in the world do you 'gotta be'?
Meghan’s crimson red lips purse before sliding into the family sneer.
MEGHAN STRADER
The surprise I said I had earlier? Time to go deliver. Don't wait up for me.
Meghan kisses her daughter and sister on the top of their heads as she makes her exit. Tamika looks at the tag strap as she sets it on the desk. She looks over at Cara who's somehow pulled a bong out of thin area and is firing up a bowl. Her eyes meet Tamika as she takes her toke.
TAMIKA STRADER
Did your mom have any of that earlier?
CARA STRADER
(strained coughing)
I dunno, meng. Maybe? I don't think so. Bert probably got into it though. Bag is definitely light.
We fade away from the Cowgirls and come back to in-ring entertainment.
THE COWGIRLS are back in their private dressing room/office, fresh from their decisive first round victory. Meghan is still in her ring gear but both Tamika and Cara have showered and changed into their stone-washed Canadian tuxedos (denim and more denim) and are sprawled in the two leather chairs in front of the desk while Meghan sits in a highbacked red leather chair. She leans back and puts her boots up on the mighty oak desk.
MEGHAN STRADER
That was great work, ladies. We did extremely well and we are one step closer to becoming the first Trios Champions here in UPRISING. 2021 is the year of the Cowgirl. First was the Revolution1 tag titles coming back to the rightful champions. Next, the Trios Championship!
Tamika and Cara smile while nodding in agreement with the Strader Matriarch.
TAMIKA STRADER
Also, the third show in a row my awesome niece here has won! I am very proud of you!
MEGHAN STRADER
As am I. You not only did a great job filling in for me but Max as well while she heals… you have earned a permanent spot in the Cowgirls. We love you!
CARA STRADER
D’awww... Auntie Tee, Mamabear…
Being a bit bashful, it's clear that the moment and the accomplishment aren’t lost on her stoner brain waves. Meghan brings her feet down and stands up. She hands Tamika her white leather Revo1 Tag Team Championship.
MEGHAN STRADER
Watch this for me, there is somewhere I gotta be.
Tamika’s right eyebrow goes up in a quizzical nature.
TAMIKA STRADER
Umm, you can’t leave the city except to go home. Where in the world do you 'gotta be'?
Meghan’s crimson red lips purse before sliding into the family sneer.
MEGHAN STRADER
The surprise I said I had earlier? Time to go deliver. Don't wait up for me.
Meghan kisses her daughter and sister on the top of their heads as she makes her exit. Tamika looks at the tag strap as she sets it on the desk. She looks over at Cara who's somehow pulled a bong out of thin area and is firing up a bowl. Her eyes meet Tamika as she takes her toke.
TAMIKA STRADER
Did your mom have any of that earlier?
CARA STRADER
(strained coughing)
I dunno, meng. Maybe? I don't think so. Bert probably got into it though. Bag is definitely light.
We fade away from the Cowgirls and come back to in-ring entertainment.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
TRIOS CHAMPIONSHIP CONTENDER ROUND 1
TRINACRIA vs CHURCH OF THE 7TH CIRCLE
Triggs starts off with the early momentum, sending Vincenzo Riina packing into the ropes – he's peppering in the shots on the rebound, but the big man doesn't even falter. Triggs fakes him out with a feint and then nails a dropkick to the knee followed by a quick legsweep but Riina is back up in an instant and he fires back with some meathook bombs that get him a warning from Neil Rana. Triggs springs into action, going for a fast clothesline but Vincenzo ducks and follows up with a double-arm DDT that sends the smaller Triggs skidding across the canvas and right into the boot of Rhodes. Nico makes a ruckus, getting into a squabble on the other side of the ring with Enigma, drawing the referee's attention long enough for Rhodes to choke Triggs against the rope before Riina ragdolls him back up and sends him into the neutral corner with a Biel toss before following him in with a shoulder block to the face that leaves him gasping for air – that might have actually shattered the poor man's spine! Vincenzo leisurely strolls over to the TRINACRIA corner and slaps Nico's outstretched hand, making a hot tag. Nico springs over the ropes and immediately pounces on Triggs, stomping a mudhole in him before he straddles Triggs, getting heat from the crowd as he starts pummeling him with a Thesz press. Triggs rolls to the side, grasping at the rope but Pazzini has him by the hair and he turns it into a crossface hold – bloodcurdling cry and Siobahn McLeod launches herself off the top rope, crashing down on the pair, saving Triggs from tapping out and Rana is quick to restore order and force the illegal woman from the ring. Nico drags Triggs up and sends him off into the corner where Vincenzo is waiting – he clocks Triggs in the face and then smashes his skull off the exposed turnbuckle. Triggs is busted wide open when he falls and Riina tags himself in, slapping Nico on the shoulder. Pazzini looks like he might object but then he takes a look at Neil Rana hovering over the prone and bleeding form of Hayden Triggs and decides to let the muscle handle it. He leans on that askew turnbuckle cover as Riina locks eyes with Rhodes before turning around – right into a lariat from ENIGMA!
Rana rises, forcing Enigma back to the apron and Riina hauls Triggs to his feet – the poor kid wobbles, looking like he's halfway to La La Land and it doesn't help when Vincenzo executes La Sigretta Ricetta (pump handle slam) on him. Triggs is down and clearly feeling the impact, but he shakes his head, trying to clear the cobwebs as though he's oblivious to the blood pouring down his face. He pulls Triggs up by the hair and connects with a vertical suplex with amazing hang time, driving Triggs almost through the mat. Vincenzo strolls over to his corner, and makes the tag to Ricky Rhodes this time and the brains behind the trio steps slowly through the ropes, soaking in the negative reaction of the crowd. Rhodes lays a few cheap boots into Hayden's shoulders before Siobahn storms into the ring, enraged as she throws herself at Rhodes, driving him back into the TRINACRIA corner where Vincenzo smirks and palms Siobahn's face, shoving her back! She trips over the unmoving body of her partner and Rhodes is happy to kick her in the face on the way down. McLeod rolls out to the floor, dazed and disoriented and when Rana goes to head off the intrusion as Enigma starts to step over the ropes, he notices that Triggs is out from the blood loss, eyes rolled up in his head, clearly unfit to continue the match. Before Rhodes can do any further damage to him, Neil Rana calls for the bell and the medial crew comes charging out from the back as the view cuts elsewhere.
Rana rises, forcing Enigma back to the apron and Riina hauls Triggs to his feet – the poor kid wobbles, looking like he's halfway to La La Land and it doesn't help when Vincenzo executes La Sigretta Ricetta (pump handle slam) on him. Triggs is down and clearly feeling the impact, but he shakes his head, trying to clear the cobwebs as though he's oblivious to the blood pouring down his face. He pulls Triggs up by the hair and connects with a vertical suplex with amazing hang time, driving Triggs almost through the mat. Vincenzo strolls over to his corner, and makes the tag to Ricky Rhodes this time and the brains behind the trio steps slowly through the ropes, soaking in the negative reaction of the crowd. Rhodes lays a few cheap boots into Hayden's shoulders before Siobahn storms into the ring, enraged as she throws herself at Rhodes, driving him back into the TRINACRIA corner where Vincenzo smirks and palms Siobahn's face, shoving her back! She trips over the unmoving body of her partner and Rhodes is happy to kick her in the face on the way down. McLeod rolls out to the floor, dazed and disoriented and when Rana goes to head off the intrusion as Enigma starts to step over the ropes, he notices that Triggs is out from the blood loss, eyes rolled up in his head, clearly unfit to continue the match. Before Rhodes can do any further damage to him, Neil Rana calls for the bell and the medial crew comes charging out from the back as the view cuts elsewhere.
WINNER (VIA REFEREE STOPPAGE): TRINACRIA
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. ELDORADO CASINO -- BACKSTAGE
We head to the back where Griffin Hawkins is standing by the wall. The camera man is focused on him as he begins to speak.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Every now and then...hard work pays off. Some would scratch and claw their way to the top...while others are so entitled that they'd rather be handed the key to the city without even working for it. Me, I've always believed in earning my opportunities. And right now...I got a chance to earn my first ever shot at gold as I am in a Triple Threat Match to determine the number one contender for the Silver State Title. Two hungry competitors stand before me...and I realize already that I got a long night ahead of me.
He paces back and forth as he continues.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Azurine Vebbins, someone whom I consider a friend in this sport, is in this match. It seems lately things haven't really gone her way...but fate has decided to throw her a life preserver in the form of a title opportunity. But fate can indeed be a curious beast, because I'm in this as well. Me and Azurine have been wanting to compete one on one for some time now. The last time we faced off...it didn't get a chance to be broadcasted for the world to see. Now, things are different as we are under the bright lights! Finally we'll get to showcase our abilities against one another in front of the entire world.
He stops for a minute as he looks to the camera.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
I know for sure Azurine that you're not gonna pull any punches....and you know for sure that I'm not going to show any mercy. The both of us want gold. The both of us want to be recognized as the best in UPRISING today. Like me...you're no stranger to gold. And you definitely want to add the Silver State Title to your long list of accolades. But as much as I got all the respect in the world for you....I can't let that happen.
He cracks his neck a little bit.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
If Chris Mosh is successful tonight...
He shakes his head, not wanting to get ahead of himself.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
You stand in my way of success, Azurine. I want to be king of the mountaintop...but to do that I have to go through you. And as much as I value our friendship, I have to do what I have to do if I want a shot at Sam Tolson's gold. In a match like this...anyone can win it. You could win it, I could win it...Diamond Caldwell could win it. This isn't personal, Azurine; it's just business. See ya out there.
The mood on his face suddenly changes to seriousness.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Diamond Caldwell....a woman who was added to this match not long after it was announced as one on one. For the last few weeks Diamond has been screwed over and over and over and over again. Injustice after injustice has caused her to snap. And now she seems to believe that she'll get some kind of vindication in this match by becoming the number one contender. I hate to rain on her parade...but it's not gonna be that easy.
He cracks his knuckles.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Diamond..I got all the respect in the world for you. You're a hell of a competitor and I know for sure you're gonna be wearing gold sooner rather than later. But did I hear you correctly when you said that you're not grateful to be in this match for the title? All because you've been screwed? All because you feel like you were overlooked? You need to understand, girl...any opportunity you get at a title, no matter what it is, you should be grateful for. You have any idea how many guys and girls would give their right hand to be in your shoes right now? This is your chance at redemption. Don't blow it.
He looks closer to the cameraman, making sure the man captures his face.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Now, you'd think I'd be upset with the fact that you got added to this match. Saying something like, "you're getting handed an opportunity". But I don't feel that way. I can sympathize with you, I know what it's like to get screwed out of matches and opportunities. Everyone here in Reno, everyone watching at home saw what happened the last time you had a shot at Samantha Tolson. I know you want a rematch. I can't guarantee that it'll only be the three of us out there, but I can assure you that if Chris Mosh comes anywhere near the ring before one of our hands is raised, there will be hell to pay.
He pauses for a moment.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
I have nothing but respect for both of you going into this. I want you to show off what you're capable of, Diamond. If you want the world to truly know, then do your best to win this match. Because I'm gonna roll in to Reno to get my opportunities and I refuse to let you or Azurine stand in my way. The time is here, girls...let's rock!
He walks off camera as we head back towards ringside for the match, ending up stopping to find "DA ADORKABLE ANGEL" AZURINE VEBBINS leaning against the entrance curtain. She waves to the camera before delivering one mouthful of a monologue.
AZURINE VEBBINS
Tonight, Saturday, June 12 is a grand gala of grapplin’ on one side of da equation and copious celebrations on anoder. A Dream Dance over one year in da makin’ plus Diamond Caldwell shall transpire here at UPRISIN’s Dird Supershow "SOLSTICE." When dis event was first announced I wasn’t sure who exactly my opposition would be. Knew da dame was tougher dan Plead-er Gin-juh Sesame Vegan Jerky. Unfortunately, dat Dream Dance dissolved when she became unavailable. As an alternative, dough, was da dance I’d been waitin’ for since April 20 last year and prior. Despite intense interest from bode participants, Griffin Hawkins and Azurine Vebbins just couldn’t find a neutral venue to rock out, dodgeballs to da wall. Eventually, dough, similar to warm peanut butter cookies from a pipin’ hot oven...we still believed our day would come. I’ll admit I tweeted resistance to our tango turnin’ into a Silver State Championship Contendership Cha-Cha. Griff and I were gonna wallop and wail each odd-er in a wicked waltz. However, once title contention controversy soft-shoed in, “Da Vivacious Variable” recognized an unknown quantity would be added. I experienced Caldwell in Women’s Wrestlin’ Revolution. She has every credential to challenge for Samanda Tolson’s Silver State Championship. June 12’s also National Lovin’ Day. Dat celebration commemorates da 1967 Supreme Court decision to promote interracial marriage which laid groundwork for equal protection for all marriages. Hence, it’s wid dat spirit of inclusion I step into da Silver State Ballroom and find out who da Undisputed Number One Contender really is. It’s time for "Da Damsel in Dat Dress" Azurine Vebbins to shine and bloom bodacious like a bouquet of fresh-cut red roses.
And with that, we move through the curtain and down to ringside, ready for the match to begin.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Every now and then...hard work pays off. Some would scratch and claw their way to the top...while others are so entitled that they'd rather be handed the key to the city without even working for it. Me, I've always believed in earning my opportunities. And right now...I got a chance to earn my first ever shot at gold as I am in a Triple Threat Match to determine the number one contender for the Silver State Title. Two hungry competitors stand before me...and I realize already that I got a long night ahead of me.
He paces back and forth as he continues.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Azurine Vebbins, someone whom I consider a friend in this sport, is in this match. It seems lately things haven't really gone her way...but fate has decided to throw her a life preserver in the form of a title opportunity. But fate can indeed be a curious beast, because I'm in this as well. Me and Azurine have been wanting to compete one on one for some time now. The last time we faced off...it didn't get a chance to be broadcasted for the world to see. Now, things are different as we are under the bright lights! Finally we'll get to showcase our abilities against one another in front of the entire world.
He stops for a minute as he looks to the camera.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
I know for sure Azurine that you're not gonna pull any punches....and you know for sure that I'm not going to show any mercy. The both of us want gold. The both of us want to be recognized as the best in UPRISING today. Like me...you're no stranger to gold. And you definitely want to add the Silver State Title to your long list of accolades. But as much as I got all the respect in the world for you....I can't let that happen.
He cracks his neck a little bit.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
If Chris Mosh is successful tonight...
He shakes his head, not wanting to get ahead of himself.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
You stand in my way of success, Azurine. I want to be king of the mountaintop...but to do that I have to go through you. And as much as I value our friendship, I have to do what I have to do if I want a shot at Sam Tolson's gold. In a match like this...anyone can win it. You could win it, I could win it...Diamond Caldwell could win it. This isn't personal, Azurine; it's just business. See ya out there.
The mood on his face suddenly changes to seriousness.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Diamond Caldwell....a woman who was added to this match not long after it was announced as one on one. For the last few weeks Diamond has been screwed over and over and over and over again. Injustice after injustice has caused her to snap. And now she seems to believe that she'll get some kind of vindication in this match by becoming the number one contender. I hate to rain on her parade...but it's not gonna be that easy.
He cracks his knuckles.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Diamond..I got all the respect in the world for you. You're a hell of a competitor and I know for sure you're gonna be wearing gold sooner rather than later. But did I hear you correctly when you said that you're not grateful to be in this match for the title? All because you've been screwed? All because you feel like you were overlooked? You need to understand, girl...any opportunity you get at a title, no matter what it is, you should be grateful for. You have any idea how many guys and girls would give their right hand to be in your shoes right now? This is your chance at redemption. Don't blow it.
He looks closer to the cameraman, making sure the man captures his face.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Now, you'd think I'd be upset with the fact that you got added to this match. Saying something like, "you're getting handed an opportunity". But I don't feel that way. I can sympathize with you, I know what it's like to get screwed out of matches and opportunities. Everyone here in Reno, everyone watching at home saw what happened the last time you had a shot at Samantha Tolson. I know you want a rematch. I can't guarantee that it'll only be the three of us out there, but I can assure you that if Chris Mosh comes anywhere near the ring before one of our hands is raised, there will be hell to pay.
He pauses for a moment.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
I have nothing but respect for both of you going into this. I want you to show off what you're capable of, Diamond. If you want the world to truly know, then do your best to win this match. Because I'm gonna roll in to Reno to get my opportunities and I refuse to let you or Azurine stand in my way. The time is here, girls...let's rock!
He walks off camera as we head back towards ringside for the match, ending up stopping to find "DA ADORKABLE ANGEL" AZURINE VEBBINS leaning against the entrance curtain. She waves to the camera before delivering one mouthful of a monologue.
AZURINE VEBBINS
Tonight, Saturday, June 12 is a grand gala of grapplin’ on one side of da equation and copious celebrations on anoder. A Dream Dance over one year in da makin’ plus Diamond Caldwell shall transpire here at UPRISIN’s Dird Supershow "SOLSTICE." When dis event was first announced I wasn’t sure who exactly my opposition would be. Knew da dame was tougher dan Plead-er Gin-juh Sesame Vegan Jerky. Unfortunately, dat Dream Dance dissolved when she became unavailable. As an alternative, dough, was da dance I’d been waitin’ for since April 20 last year and prior. Despite intense interest from bode participants, Griffin Hawkins and Azurine Vebbins just couldn’t find a neutral venue to rock out, dodgeballs to da wall. Eventually, dough, similar to warm peanut butter cookies from a pipin’ hot oven...we still believed our day would come. I’ll admit I tweeted resistance to our tango turnin’ into a Silver State Championship Contendership Cha-Cha. Griff and I were gonna wallop and wail each odd-er in a wicked waltz. However, once title contention controversy soft-shoed in, “Da Vivacious Variable” recognized an unknown quantity would be added. I experienced Caldwell in Women’s Wrestlin’ Revolution. She has every credential to challenge for Samanda Tolson’s Silver State Championship. June 12’s also National Lovin’ Day. Dat celebration commemorates da 1967 Supreme Court decision to promote interracial marriage which laid groundwork for equal protection for all marriages. Hence, it’s wid dat spirit of inclusion I step into da Silver State Ballroom and find out who da Undisputed Number One Contender really is. It’s time for "Da Damsel in Dat Dress" Azurine Vebbins to shine and bloom bodacious like a bouquet of fresh-cut red roses.
And with that, we move through the curtain and down to ringside, ready for the match to begin.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
SILVER STATE CONTENDER
GRIFFIN HAWKINS vs AZURINE VEBBINS vs DIAMOND CALDWELL
The match starts off quick as Diamond has Vebbins down and sizes her up for a swing of the fist, but she gets a foot under and launches Diamond over the barricade and into the crowd. Diamond is up quickly, but that doesn’t stop her from catching a dive from Azzy who springs up onto the barrier and then throws herself out into the fans. The two go down hard while the camera cuts back to the ring to see Griffin Hawkins leaning in the corner, watching his opponents beat the crap out of one another. Vebbins has the high ground and throws Caldwell through a sea of chairs, but before she can really follow up, she finds her feet taken out from under her as Diamond kicks a chair out and trips her on the run. Vebbins is down and Diamond is already making good on her social media promise. Diamond looks like she's going for a knee lift against the barrier but Hawkins intervenes and the crowd ERUPTS! Thrust kick into Diamond’s side, giving Azzy Vebbins time to regroup and recover. Hawkins brings a heavy forearm across Diamond's back, driving her back down toward the ring. Diamond falls hard against the ring post then and turns around, just in time to duck a shot coming in at her head. His fist makes a loud clank coming into contact with the post. Diamond then comes in from off camera and spears the Rocker across the floor!
Diamond's found her second wind and the moment Griffin's up, she throws a shoulder into his gut. She looks to set-up a powerbomb, but Griffin drops to a knee and places a few punches of his own between her ribs. Suplex attempt is denied as Diamond fights back to the ground. She frees her arm and pulls Griffin in for a short-armed clothesline, but the Rock God ducks under and catches a rear waistlock before throwing Diamond up into a German suplex, bridging for the pin.
ONE!
TW—KICKOUT!
Diamond rolls out to the floor just as Azzy Vebbins joins the fray and launches herself at Hawkins – chopblock to the knee but instead of going down, Griffin catches her and turns it into a front facelock! BRAINBUSTER OUT OF NOWHERE – HOLY SHIT, NO! VEBBINS FIGHTS BACK! Azzy sticks a knee into Griff’s head to break his grip, and drops back onto her feet, setting her up with just the right distance for a superkick that puts Griffin back into the ropes. Hawkins then steps forward into a enzuiguri that doubles him over, and gives Vebbins a chance to hop up onto his shoulders. On sheer instinct Griffin stands up straight, but apparently that was exactly the wrong thing to do and Vebbins takes him over with an inverted frankensteiner, spiking the Rocker right down on the top of his head. Griffin rolls through the impact, looking dazed and confused. Unfortunately Vebbins doesn’t seem to share much sympathy and puts him over the ropes with a dropkick – she wants that shot at the Silver State Championship, after all. She turns back to the approaching Diamond, lashing out with a boot that's easily caught. Diamond spins her around and catches her with a headbutt between the eyes! OH NO! AZZY VEBBINS IS OUT ON HER FEET AND DIAMOND CATCHES HER FOR A FISHERMAN BUSTER! Diamond hits the top rope and comes down with a 450 Splash – FINAL CREDITS ARE ROLLING AS SHE MAKES THE COVER!
ONE!
TWO!
NO! SHOT IN THE DARK TO THE HEAD OF DIAMOND CALDWELL! GRIFFIN HAWKINS IS BACK AND HE'S ON FIRE! HE SCOOPS HER UP AND SHE'S TOO DAZED FROM THE IMPACT TO FIGHT BACK! GLAM SLAM (Michinoku Driver II) AND HE HOOKS BOTH LEGS!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Diamond's found her second wind and the moment Griffin's up, she throws a shoulder into his gut. She looks to set-up a powerbomb, but Griffin drops to a knee and places a few punches of his own between her ribs. Suplex attempt is denied as Diamond fights back to the ground. She frees her arm and pulls Griffin in for a short-armed clothesline, but the Rock God ducks under and catches a rear waistlock before throwing Diamond up into a German suplex, bridging for the pin.
ONE!
TW—KICKOUT!
Diamond rolls out to the floor just as Azzy Vebbins joins the fray and launches herself at Hawkins – chopblock to the knee but instead of going down, Griffin catches her and turns it into a front facelock! BRAINBUSTER OUT OF NOWHERE – HOLY SHIT, NO! VEBBINS FIGHTS BACK! Azzy sticks a knee into Griff’s head to break his grip, and drops back onto her feet, setting her up with just the right distance for a superkick that puts Griffin back into the ropes. Hawkins then steps forward into a enzuiguri that doubles him over, and gives Vebbins a chance to hop up onto his shoulders. On sheer instinct Griffin stands up straight, but apparently that was exactly the wrong thing to do and Vebbins takes him over with an inverted frankensteiner, spiking the Rocker right down on the top of his head. Griffin rolls through the impact, looking dazed and confused. Unfortunately Vebbins doesn’t seem to share much sympathy and puts him over the ropes with a dropkick – she wants that shot at the Silver State Championship, after all. She turns back to the approaching Diamond, lashing out with a boot that's easily caught. Diamond spins her around and catches her with a headbutt between the eyes! OH NO! AZZY VEBBINS IS OUT ON HER FEET AND DIAMOND CATCHES HER FOR A FISHERMAN BUSTER! Diamond hits the top rope and comes down with a 450 Splash – FINAL CREDITS ARE ROLLING AS SHE MAKES THE COVER!
ONE!
TWO!
NO! SHOT IN THE DARK TO THE HEAD OF DIAMOND CALDWELL! GRIFFIN HAWKINS IS BACK AND HE'S ON FIRE! HE SCOOPS HER UP AND SHE'S TOO DAZED FROM THE IMPACT TO FIGHT BACK! GLAM SLAM (Michinoku Driver II) AND HE HOOKS BOTH LEGS!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): GRIFFIN HAWKINS
_____________________________________________
BLACK.
ANNOUNCER (O.S.)
Look now, I’ll start the melody on the organ.
“OYE COMO VA” BY SANTANA PLAYS.
INT. BACKSTAGE -- CONTINUOUS
PULL BACK from the black cover of a Bluetooth speaker from which the music is playing. Next to it, an old, beat-up iPhone is jacked into the speaker’s base. It’s sitting on a table covered in green felt, like one would see on the poker floor of the Eldorado. We continue to track backward slowly, revealing the following: a set of five white dice; a small red plastic cup; a few pencils and white pieces of paper that look like score cards; and three pairs of hands which are quickly revealed to belong to three men — RENO NEVADA. BERT MCALROY. and young STEVE GOLDSTEIN, intern at large.
Reno, looking a little worse for wear after his Southside Scuffle Match victory earlier in the night, holds the flame from a Bic lighter to the end of a glass pipe. He inhales sharply before pulling back. His face tightens, eyes squint, then he lets out a long stream of smoke which hangs heavy in the air.
RENO NEVADA
Listen, I’m not arguing that it’s a bad film, aight? All I’m saying is, it’s boring as fuck.
He extends his hand across the table, past Stevie who is wearing a World War I era gas mask. The young man stares wide-eyed through the saucer-size lenses at the pipe. Perhaps seeing the longing in his eyes, Reno wags a finger just as Bert takes the pipe.
RENO NEVADA
Hey, I told you the rules! You’re under the legal limit and I ain’t goin to jail for YOU or ANYONE. You ever been to jail, Stevie?
The intern shakes his head no.
INTERN STEVE
(muffled)
No, sir.
RENO NEVADA
I thought not. Trust me, you don’t wanna go. You’ll end up with some fat hairy dood droppin bombs in the toilet next to your bed five times a day. Now, you wanna play Yahtzee with the big boys? You gotta keep that mask on, ya hear?
INTERN STEVE
(muffled)
Yessir.
As Bert takes a long hit off the pipe, Reno snatches up the cup, tosses in the dice, and shakes them vigorously.
BERT MCALROY
(exhales)
I get what you’re sayin, homie but Shawshank is such a great flick. Sure, it’s slow, but check it. Morgan Freeman? Check. Tim Robbins? Double check. Clancy Brown? Triple check. That guy was the Kurgan in the Highlander!
RENO NEVADA
Hey, you don’t have to tell me shit about the Highlander, okay? I’ve seen that movie fifty two times.
INTERN STEVE
(muffled)
Fifty two? Dang.
RENO NEVADA
(still shaking)
Dang’s right. I keep a movie journal. Every flick I see goes in, and I mark how many times I see it.
Reno tosses the dice out the cup. All five dance around on the felt for a second before settling on their respective sides. Bert throws his hands up. Steve jumps from his seat excitedly.
RENO NEVADA
YAHTZEE, MOTHER FUCKERS!
INTERN STEVE
(muffled)
Way to go, sir! Most excellently played.
Reno snatches the pipe off the table and takes another hit as Bert comes to terms with his loss.
BERT MCALROY
Yo, what about dat sequel, tho?
RENO NEVADA
(exhales)
Highlander II? THE QUICKENING?
He flashes a smile.
RENO NEVADA
Eighty five. And a half.
INTERN STEVE
(muffled)
WHOA!
BERT MCALROY
Wait, whatcha mean half?
RENO NEVADA
It’s paused in my hotel room. I was watchin that shit last night, son.
BERT MCALROY
C’mon, yo. That movie’s so bad.
RENO NEVADA
Good, bad, it’s all relative. It’s like Einstein said. Entertainment equals John McTiernan and James Cameron squared.
INTERN STEVE
(muffled)
That’s not what he said at all.
RENO NEVADA
A great movie doesn’t require you to think about it. You think I care that in the Highlander II they completely ignored the mythology set up in the first one? Fuck no, because I got to see space wizards come to earth and fight with claymores and katanas. I got to see Sean Connery, rest in peace, show up for like twenty minutes only to die and ride off with his paycheck. Plus Michael Ironside? Total badass badass.
BERT MCALROY
Aight. I gotchu.
Bert takes a hit off the pipe. A silence falls over the table for the first time. He leans back in his chair, plops a foot on the table, and blows a series of smoke rings into the air, which Steve admires under his mask. Reno, meanwhile, has a smirk slowly forming on his face.
RENO NEVADA
So what you guys think about the roster heeeeeyaaaa? Like, any of these doods piss you off?
He looks at Steve.
RENO NEVADA
You fetch all these fools coffee and take their shit on twittah. You gotta know something about someone. Some dirt worth digging up, if you get my drift.
INTERN STEVE
(muffled)
Oh, I don’t know…I don’t want to get in trouble.
RENO NEVADA
Trouble? It’s just us three here and that camera over there that’s broadcasting this all over the world. C’mon. Give me something good.
INTERN STEVE
Well, you know Chris Mosh?
Reno nods emphatically. Bert has a this is gonna be good look on his face.
INTERN STEVE
(muffled)
Well, he makes me get almond milk instead of real milk. Like, who does that?
Reno facepalms. Bert chokes out a puff of smoke.
RENO NEVADA
That’s it? That’s the best you got?
INTERN STEVE
(muffled)
I think it’s weird.
RENO NEVADA
Jaysus. That’s not weird. Lots of people drink that stuff. Maybe dairy gives him the shits. Weird would be that he makes you deliver it on a silver platter dressed like Oddjob.
INTERN STEVE
(muffled)
Who?
RENO NEVADA
Nevermind. What about you, Bert?
BERT MCALROY
Those guys in Trinacria. I seen more authentic Italians on the Jersey Sho’. What they need is Jenny Rivers to join up, tease out that hair, get some self tanner and let that Queen crazy come out, then they’d have their very own Snooki. THEN, maybe I’d find them remotely intimidating.
RENO NEVADA
I don’t think SuMa’s sis is Italian.
BERT MCALROY
Neither is Snooki.
Reno’s eyes widen and he mimes an explosion out of his ears.
RENO NEVADA
You just blew my mind. God, I wish I had some Doritos.
INTERN STEVE
(muffled)
I can get you some—
RENO NEVADA
Shhh…
Reno places a finger to the respiration of Steve’s mask.
RENO NEVADA
Let me tell YOU somethin. You know who I can’t stand? That fucking dood Mac Bane.
As Reno goes on, a large figure appears in the background, slowly walking toward the table. FOCUS ON: Bert. His eyes widen and he sits up. He waves a hand at Reno but the Outlaw doesn’t seem to notice.
RENO NEVADA
I mean, c’mon. What’s with all these doods that walk around acting like badasses just because they’re tall. Three hundred pounds doesn't make you tough. It makes you in desperate need of a roto rooter to clean out them arteries.
The man in the background now stands behind Reno. We only see him from the chest down but it’s clear he’s massive.
BERT MCALROY
Seriously, you should—
RENO NEVADA
And the hair. Yeah, we get it, you’re follically blessed but why you runnin round like Jason Mamoa? That dood is AQUAMAN. Mac Bane ain’t Aquaman. He not even Namor! He ain’t shit!
Steve looks over and, for the first time, sees the man behind Reno. He lifts a hand and waves.
INTERN STEVE
(muffled)
Hey, Mr. Bane.
Reno sits up then slowly turns to look up at the giant of a man staring down at him. He laughs awkwardly while rising up from his chair until the two men stand chest to chest. FOCUS ON: Bane looks down at the three-inch shorter Reno.
MAC BANE
Don’t let me stop you. Keep talking.
From his seat at the table, Bert chimes in.
BERT MCALROY
I don’t recommend that.
RENO NEVADA
It’s aight, Bert. Mr. Bane here is just waltzing by. Prolly drawn to us from the smell of the stickiest of the icky, amirite?
Bane doesn’t respond. Instead he just places a hand on Reno’s shoulder and, slowly, pushes him back down into his chair. Reno doesn’t fight it. His face is full of shock and confusion as he twists around like a drill bit until he lands smack dab on the chair.
Bane leans down just over Reno’s shoulder.
MAC BANE
I’ll see you around, Boston.
He smacks Reno hard on the back before walking away from the table.
BERT MCALROY
Shit, yo. That was serious. You folded like a chump!
RENO NEVADA
No I didn’t!
INTERN STEVE
(muffled)
Totally folded.
RENO NEVADA
I was just weirded out. Like, who does that? Totally invaded my personal space. I ain’t scared of him.
Bert and Steve share a look.
RENO NEVADA
Fuck you both!
Reno jumps from the table, takes the pipe and his phone from the dock and then walks off.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
TRIOS CHAMPIONSHIP CONTENDER ROUND 1
THE CRUSH vs HEROES FOR HIRE!
Heidi Austin and Liam Richardson circle each other as the bell rings before moving into a collar and elbow tie up that ends when Heidi sends Richardson packing to the ropes, surprising the big man. Richardson manages to hook, stopping his momentum in time, narrowly avoiding a dropkick attempt. Heidi pops back to her feet – BIG BOOT TO THE FACE! Liam drags Heidi up, sending her into the corner where he tags in Watson. Ouch! Backbreaker hold into a diving knee drop before Richardson rolls out of the ring and Watson pins Austin – COWABUNGA! CARRIE DIVES INTO THEM BEFORE WE CAN EVEN SEE THE ONE! The crowd's already cheering wildly when Watson drags Heidi up, sending her into the neutral corner and he follows her in, spearing her into the post. She crumbles and he rears back, driving a knee into her guts. Wait… what? Watson falls back and Heidi shakes her hand out like she's just hit something hard, sprinting across the ring to make the hot tag to Lollipop. Watson rolls back to his feet and right into a throat thrust that has him flailing and gasping for air – DDT AND HE'S DOWN IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RING! Being a good sport, she helps Watson upright before slamming a fist into his face, shaking her head as though disgusted at having to resort to such cheap shots and when he staggers back, she trips him up and nails him in the back of the head with a scissor kick, sending him to his knees. Carrie's up on the apron, hyping the crowd as Takashi leans into the ring, calling for the tag. Lollipop follows the assault up with a series of kawada kicks, grasping the back of Watson's head and kicking him in the face as the crowd counts out the blows, wincing with each one before she flings him into the Crush corner, making the hot tag to Heidi – OH NO! Crush Practise Drill and everyone takes a turn smashing into Watson before Heidi scoops him up. CRUSH HOUR (powerbomb/backstabber combo) and Watson is down and out. Before either partner can intervene, they're headed off at the pass by Lolli and Carrie and Heidi smothers Watson for the pin!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
HUGE UPSET WIN FOR THE CRUSH!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
HUGE UPSET WIN FOR THE CRUSH!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): THE CRUSH
CUT TO:
BACKSTAGE -- CONTINUOUS
The view cuts backstage, catching a glimpse of the GENERAL MANAGER, walking briskly towards the gorilla position. He emerges from the tunnel and stops at the top of the ramp, looking more pissed off than usual. He stops at the top of the ramp, lifting a microphone to his lips.
JACKSON
Right now, we were supposed to be having an advertised Tag Team Championship defense – the first for new champions SWINE FLEW and while I'm not a fan how they captured the gold, that doesn't mean I condone a blatant act of disrespect from members of my roster.
A murmur ripples across the crowd, a flicker of confusion as the words he's treading very carefully around saying start to sink in.
JACKSON
Lilith Meadows and Christina Olson failed to check in with our medical staff, failed to appear on the premises over the last twenty-four hours and haven't mentioned UPRISING for weeks on social media – I get it. I wasn't born yesterday. You followed the former Sativa Nevaeh here to Reno, so it made sense for you to disappear the moment she decided to focus her energies elsewhere. Still… I would have appreciated a little notice. That's only fair. Now you've left these poor folks without--
'Leader of the Pack' by Sleigh Bells explodes over the sound system, drowning Jackson out and the crowd erupts when REGAN VOORHEES steps out from the tunnel, followed closely by INTERN STEVE who has one half of the tag team championships resting on an ivory satin pillow. She walks right up to Jackson and reaches out to boldly take the microphone from his hand.
REGAN VOORHEES
Absolutely unacceptable, Mr. Jackson. You’ve not only neglected to address other roster members’ baseless allegations that Kalinda and I are undeserving of our newly won championships, but you awarded a title opportunity to a team that waltzed right out of your company. Their cowardice and unprofessionalism, I find utterly unsurprising. However, as the owner and operator, the responsibility of setting us up with a pair of worthy challengers falls upon your shoulders, like Atlas, and yet you stand before me - shrugging. Kalinda and I were so looking forward to silencing our naysayers with the obliteration of our opposition in our inaugural defense. And now we, UPRISING and the city of Reno itself have been left wanting. My disappointment is monumental.
Steve looks like he wants the floor to open up and swallow him whole as Jackson continues to glower at Regan and rather than reach out to take the microphone back, turns and gestures for one of the techs to give him one.
JACKSON
You done?
REGAN VOORHEES
Are you? A leader is expected to LEAD, Mr. Jackson. Not come out here and flail ineffectually and make pithy little apologies to the masses. In a less civilized time, those same masses would’ve ripped you limb from limb, torn your entrails from your body, paraded your head through this city as a gruesome trophy. But in the year 2021, in Reno, Nevada, they boo. Boo upon you, Mr. Jackson. You've failed. Do better.
The crowd erupts as the words leave the lips of "The Duchess of Pork" and Jackson stares at her for a good ten seconds. Steve takes a step back, almost dropping the belt off the pillow in his haste to backpedal but Regan stares coolly back at the man who ended more careers than anyone cared to count before his untimely retirement.
JACKSON
You want a match? Fine. You can face--
He stops talking at the sound of a ruckus behind them, turning to the tunnel, dismayed when he sees KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR standing there. Before she can say anything, Jackson shakes his head.
JACKSON
The Last of the Valkyries were released, so no big theatrical entrance tonight.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Dereliction of duty, no doubt. I haven't seen them choose a single slain while they were here. NOBODY'S DIED, DO YOU KNOW HOW FRUSTRATING THAT IS FOR A NECROMANCER?!
JACKSON
That's not even remotely--
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
It's so sad that they had to stoop to cheating and tried to conjure pendants of enchanted ice from the Winter Court to protect them against my mighty fire breath and instead got the spellcasting arm of the United States government dedicated to preventing sentient trafficking.
JACKSON
...ICE Enchanters?
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
That's the ones!
JACKSON
You're facing The Hive. After the break. And it's still a no on the musical number
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
You're going to ruin the last request of a dying Make a Wish Foundation kid in the crowd who wanted to see a dragoness sing before they drop dead of kidney failure?
JACKSON
I'm sure you're lying to me.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Why do you say such hurtful things?
(puppy dog eyes staring)
JACKSON
(sighing)
Fine.
Kalinda dances in place and Steve looks like he's gotten whiplash from the speed of the conversation. The General Manager turns away from the tag team champions and their escort, heading towards the back as Regan calls out after him.
REGAN VOORHEES
It's been a pleasure negotiating with you.
Regan offers a golf clap, and the crowd erupts in a wall of noise as the feed cuts away to another advertising break for the return of the DEMON OF DURANGO, only on SplatTV.
JACKSON
Right now, we were supposed to be having an advertised Tag Team Championship defense – the first for new champions SWINE FLEW and while I'm not a fan how they captured the gold, that doesn't mean I condone a blatant act of disrespect from members of my roster.
A murmur ripples across the crowd, a flicker of confusion as the words he's treading very carefully around saying start to sink in.
JACKSON
Lilith Meadows and Christina Olson failed to check in with our medical staff, failed to appear on the premises over the last twenty-four hours and haven't mentioned UPRISING for weeks on social media – I get it. I wasn't born yesterday. You followed the former Sativa Nevaeh here to Reno, so it made sense for you to disappear the moment she decided to focus her energies elsewhere. Still… I would have appreciated a little notice. That's only fair. Now you've left these poor folks without--
'Leader of the Pack' by Sleigh Bells explodes over the sound system, drowning Jackson out and the crowd erupts when REGAN VOORHEES steps out from the tunnel, followed closely by INTERN STEVE who has one half of the tag team championships resting on an ivory satin pillow. She walks right up to Jackson and reaches out to boldly take the microphone from his hand.
REGAN VOORHEES
Absolutely unacceptable, Mr. Jackson. You’ve not only neglected to address other roster members’ baseless allegations that Kalinda and I are undeserving of our newly won championships, but you awarded a title opportunity to a team that waltzed right out of your company. Their cowardice and unprofessionalism, I find utterly unsurprising. However, as the owner and operator, the responsibility of setting us up with a pair of worthy challengers falls upon your shoulders, like Atlas, and yet you stand before me - shrugging. Kalinda and I were so looking forward to silencing our naysayers with the obliteration of our opposition in our inaugural defense. And now we, UPRISING and the city of Reno itself have been left wanting. My disappointment is monumental.
Steve looks like he wants the floor to open up and swallow him whole as Jackson continues to glower at Regan and rather than reach out to take the microphone back, turns and gestures for one of the techs to give him one.
JACKSON
You done?
REGAN VOORHEES
Are you? A leader is expected to LEAD, Mr. Jackson. Not come out here and flail ineffectually and make pithy little apologies to the masses. In a less civilized time, those same masses would’ve ripped you limb from limb, torn your entrails from your body, paraded your head through this city as a gruesome trophy. But in the year 2021, in Reno, Nevada, they boo. Boo upon you, Mr. Jackson. You've failed. Do better.
The crowd erupts as the words leave the lips of "The Duchess of Pork" and Jackson stares at her for a good ten seconds. Steve takes a step back, almost dropping the belt off the pillow in his haste to backpedal but Regan stares coolly back at the man who ended more careers than anyone cared to count before his untimely retirement.
JACKSON
You want a match? Fine. You can face--
He stops talking at the sound of a ruckus behind them, turning to the tunnel, dismayed when he sees KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR standing there. Before she can say anything, Jackson shakes his head.
JACKSON
The Last of the Valkyries were released, so no big theatrical entrance tonight.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Dereliction of duty, no doubt. I haven't seen them choose a single slain while they were here. NOBODY'S DIED, DO YOU KNOW HOW FRUSTRATING THAT IS FOR A NECROMANCER?!
JACKSON
That's not even remotely--
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
It's so sad that they had to stoop to cheating and tried to conjure pendants of enchanted ice from the Winter Court to protect them against my mighty fire breath and instead got the spellcasting arm of the United States government dedicated to preventing sentient trafficking.
JACKSON
...ICE Enchanters?
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
That's the ones!
JACKSON
You're facing The Hive. After the break. And it's still a no on the musical number
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
You're going to ruin the last request of a dying Make a Wish Foundation kid in the crowd who wanted to see a dragoness sing before they drop dead of kidney failure?
JACKSON
I'm sure you're lying to me.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Why do you say such hurtful things?
(puppy dog eyes staring)
JACKSON
(sighing)
Fine.
Kalinda dances in place and Steve looks like he's gotten whiplash from the speed of the conversation. The General Manager turns away from the tag team champions and their escort, heading towards the back as Regan calls out after him.
REGAN VOORHEES
It's been a pleasure negotiating with you.
Regan offers a golf clap, and the crowd erupts in a wall of noise as the feed cuts away to another advertising break for the return of the DEMON OF DURANGO, only on SplatTV.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. THE SIVER STATE BALLROOM -- RINGSIDE
INT. THE SIVER STATE BALLROOM -- RINGSIDE
For once the lights don't go out with a Kalinda Kriegsdottir entrance. A team of robed and hooded figures carry out a section of bleachers onto the stage and promptly line up on it, revealing that their robes are in fact choir robes.
The whole of Black Crusade International have also been brought out, with KATSUDO, SEIKI, AND CLIMAX all cribbing from one hymnal, JIRITSU with their arms crossed looking mildly inconvenienced by the whole thing, and PYREBIRD grinning her head off. The Obvious Plant is also there, her vines styled into a professional ponytail, and INTERN STEVE is also there to warble off-key and hold Regan's pillow, which has a mic sitting on it for some reason.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR walks out to stand on top of Sinistrous the Evil Milk Crate with a conductor's baton, and off to the sides are the assorted members of the Pig Mask Cantina Band with their usual instruments.
The shorter, heavier member of Swine Flew taps her baton on her gauntlet and raises her hands to signal for quiet just as the masked band launches into "Who is the Boss?" from the Felix the Cat movie, while the Imperial Necromantic Children's Choir begin to sing her altered lyrics.
THE IMPERIAL NECROMANTIC CHILDRENS CHOIR
Who is the best?
Our dragon-blood Empress!
What champ is the best dressed?
Our lovely Pork Duchess!
We are enchanted, by their cheeky antics
Where else can we turn when UPRISING's full of dull pricks?
The cameras cut to the crowd, who begin to clap and sing along as cultist minions have been handing out lyrics sheets.
THE IMPERIAL NECROMANTIC CHILDRENS CHOIR AND THE CROWD
Who can't help but impress?
Our stately Pork Duchess!
Who rules over this mess?
Our mighty dragoness!
Oh, oh yeah!
The Pig-Bride absolutely shreds on her base for a good fifteen seconds while Kalinda turns and REGAN VOORHEES walks out onto the stage. Steve follows along and Kalinda snatches up the microphone from the pillow now that the choir has the beat and joins in the singing.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR, THE INCC, AND THE CROWD
We are delighted, because they're super cute
Where else can we turn when the roster looks like old boots?
Kalinda sticks out how tongue and holds her nose, while Regan makes one of those excellent aristocratic faces of disgust at the very idea of the looks of the rest of the roster looking like ancient hobo footwear. Missing laces, the sole half off, one toe sticking out, scuiffed, the leather obviously never having seen a coat of polish in its life, etc etc.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR, THE INCC, AND THE CROWD
Who rules this mess?
Our mighty dragoness!
What makes the greatest art?
Our Duchess's black heart
Regan, Kalinda, and Steve begin the walk down to the ring. Well, Regan is, Kalinda is skipping, Steve attempts to start skipping and is promptly grabbed by the arm by Regan and told that she's not risking him tripping over his own ankles and dropping her pillow on the ground.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR, THE INCC, AND THE CROWD
Who is the boss?
Why it's Swine Flew of Course!
Some beach balls have appeared in the crowd, black and adorned with pig skull emblems, looking like a rather festive party as the upbeat song draws to a close.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR, THE INCC, AND THE CROWD
Who's better than Chris Mosh?
The music cuts off.
BASICALLY THE ENTIRE PLANET
LITERALLY EVERYBODY!
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS
SWINE FLEW vs THE HIVE
The moment the musical number draws to a close, Mister J gets sick of waiting at ringside and runs down the ramp to meet Kalinda – WHOOPS! Tail sweep and he's on his back. A second later he's got a gauntleted hand wrapped around his neck and Kalinda drags him back up, looking disappointed. Regan rolls her eyes disdainfully and makes a shooing motion and Mister J turns and heads back towards the ring, only to have his face smashed off the apron. Kalinda's happy to help him into the ring and Mister J rolls back up and right into a forearm club to the face thanks to an assist from Sinistrous and she dives into the corner for a hot tag to Regan! Regan comes in with a telegraphed lariat and when Mister J dodges, slips around behind and takes him over with a belly to back suplex, getting a pop from the crowd for the technical display. Regan showboats, gloating and eats a double axehandle to the back of the head for her troubles, driving her down to the canvas. Immediately, he goes to stomp away on her, only to have Steve grab his foot from the outside – it doesn't take long for him to break free but it's long enough for Regan to tag back out to Kalinda and she's all over him in an instant. COME SLITHER AND HE'S DRAGGED OUT OF REACH OF HIS OWN CORNER, MUCH TO THE DISMAY OF DANAE WHO'S STRAINING FOR THE TAG! QUEEN'S DOMINION AND HE'S CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RING WITH NOWHERE TO GO! DANAE GOES TO STEP BETWEEN THE ROPES BUT INSTEAD SHE ENDS UP ON THE FLOOR WITH A YELP, FINDING THAT REGAN IS STANDING OVER HER WITH THAT INTIMIDATING PILLOW IN HAND. MISTER J TAPS OUT AND IT'S ALL OVER, ALMOST AS QUICKLY AS IT BEGAN! WHAT A DECISIVE WIN FOR THE NEW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS!
WINNER (VIA SUBMISSION): SWINE FLEW
CUT TO:
INT. BACKSTAGE -- CONTINUOUS
The hallway is silent and deserted except for a hulking figure sitting on the floor outside the closed door of the medical offices. The tattooed arms give away his identity, making it clear that this hunched figure is none other than ENIGMA. He looks up at the sound of footsteps, the black makeup on his face smeared from sweat, tears and the press of his hands and when he lowers them into his lap, his palms are stained. A dark-haired woman kneels in front of him, reaching out to gently cup his cheeks and she wipes away a tear that falls when he blinks.
LJ STARKE
It's not your fault, love.
He says nothing for a long moment, his eyes still bright with tears before he nods, solemn.
ENIGMA
They are my…
The big man hesitates, taking a shuddering breath as he closes his eyes.
LJ STARKE
I know. You've got such a big heart but sometimes you need—
Both look up as the door opens and ASH DEVEREAUX steps into the hallway, looking somber.
LJ STARKE
How are they?
ASH DEVEREAUX
I'm sending them both to the hospital for further tests. I'm not at liberty to discuss their condition right now. Not until I know more. I'm sorry.
Pulling his phone from his pocket, he dials a number and steps away from the couple, speaking briskly into the phone.
ASH DEVEREAUX
We need an ambulance sent over to the Eldorado, right away. I've got a patient with severe head trauma…
He moves out of earshot and the woman leans in, resting her forehead against Enigma's bald head as it bows once again.
LJ STARKE
They're in good hands, love. We have to trust that they'll be okay.
ENIGMA
If they are not, TRINACRIA will pay.
The words come out in a rough whisper; the intention is clear. This rivalry, even with the Church injured and in ruins, is far from over.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
SILVER STATE TAG: IF MOSH/PAGE WIN, MOSH GETS A REMATCH
SAMANTHA TOLSON & MARY ELLEN HARRISON vs CHRIS MOSH & SUMMER PAGE
Summer wastes no time as the bell rings, springing off the ropes and connecting with a high crossbody block that nearly takes Samantha's head off as she staggers back against the ropes. Before she can fall back from the impact, Samantha grabs Summer by the head, and pastes her down with an implant DDT. Summer explodes to her feet, rushing at Samantha again, pounding her back into the corner with a flurry of knife-edge chops – NO! TOLSON DODGES AND MIND YOUR HEAD! Summer Page is down and Chris Mosh looks furious on the apron. Summer stumbles back to her feet and Samantha Tolson slings her off at the ropes. On the rebound she deep armdrags Summer to the mat and then kips back up to her feet, spinning around to nail a knee to the face and the crowd goes wild. Again, Tolson backs off, letting Page get to her feet and this time Summer whips Samantha to the ropes and tries to clothesline her as she comes back. Samantha ducks the clothesline and continues to the other rope, springing off just as Summer turns around, right into a crossbody as Tolson rides her down to the canvas. Instead of bucking her off, Summer reaches up a hand and slaps with Mosh who's straining so hard into the ring he's about to lose his balance, making the hot tag.
He leaps over the ropes, catching Samantha with a bulldog as she's rising – back elbow to the face and Mosh falls back. He grabs at her ankle as she's going to rise and she kicks him in the face – OH SHIT! SHORT-ARMED CLOTHESLINE AND TOLSON IS DOWN! MOSH STOMPS AWAY ON HER KNEE, LOOKING TO REDUCE HER SPEED A LITTLE AND MARY ELLEN HARRISON DIVES IN TO BREAK IT UP, TACKLING MOSH TO THE CANVAS AND LAYING INTO HIM. Ref Stef manages to insert herself in the middle, separating them and Chris surges to his feet, immediately charging Tolson with a full head of steam. Samantha lashes out with a boot, catching Mosh in the midsection with a stiff kick that Samantha can't capitalize on as he makes the hot tag. Summer springs over the rope, charges in for a clothesline, but Samantha makes the hot tag to Mary Ellen before she can connect. Unable to correct her momentum in time, Summer hits the corner hard. Mary Ellen grabs a handful of the tights and rolls Summer back into a schoolgirl.
ONE!
TWO!
TH—NO!
CHRIS MOSH CRASHES DOWN ON TOP OF THEM.
Summer goes for a fast clothesline but Mary Ellen ducks – HAIRMARE! SUMMER IS DOWN AND SHE'S SCREAMING BLOODY MURDER BECAUSE MARY ELLEN IS HOLDING A HANDFUL OF EXTENSIONS! Tossing them aside with a look of disgust, she goes for a knee drop across the neck, but Summer rolls aside and dives into the corner, tagging out. Mary Ellen nails Chris in the face with a modified axe kick as he attempts to step between the ropes, knocking him off the apron. The fans go absolutely insane at the stunning display of teamwork. Mary Ellen turns around just in time to get a chop block to the knees as Mosh dives under the ropes. Mosh reaches down, and pulls Mary Ellen up, just as Summer leaps up on the top rope. She launches with a shooting star press, aiming for Mary Ellen who rolls away and instead Summer Page and Chris Mosh collide. Summer rolls out of the ring, clutching her ribs just as Mary Ellen makes the hot tag back to Samantha Tolson – HOLY SHIT! Beautiful Oblivion Rendezvous (cross Rhodes) and Mosh is out of it. Tolson hooks the leg and Summer is still too out of it from the crash landing to break up the pinfall.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Mosh gets the shoulder up, but it's a split second too late!
He leaps over the ropes, catching Samantha with a bulldog as she's rising – back elbow to the face and Mosh falls back. He grabs at her ankle as she's going to rise and she kicks him in the face – OH SHIT! SHORT-ARMED CLOTHESLINE AND TOLSON IS DOWN! MOSH STOMPS AWAY ON HER KNEE, LOOKING TO REDUCE HER SPEED A LITTLE AND MARY ELLEN HARRISON DIVES IN TO BREAK IT UP, TACKLING MOSH TO THE CANVAS AND LAYING INTO HIM. Ref Stef manages to insert herself in the middle, separating them and Chris surges to his feet, immediately charging Tolson with a full head of steam. Samantha lashes out with a boot, catching Mosh in the midsection with a stiff kick that Samantha can't capitalize on as he makes the hot tag. Summer springs over the rope, charges in for a clothesline, but Samantha makes the hot tag to Mary Ellen before she can connect. Unable to correct her momentum in time, Summer hits the corner hard. Mary Ellen grabs a handful of the tights and rolls Summer back into a schoolgirl.
ONE!
TWO!
TH—NO!
CHRIS MOSH CRASHES DOWN ON TOP OF THEM.
Summer goes for a fast clothesline but Mary Ellen ducks – HAIRMARE! SUMMER IS DOWN AND SHE'S SCREAMING BLOODY MURDER BECAUSE MARY ELLEN IS HOLDING A HANDFUL OF EXTENSIONS! Tossing them aside with a look of disgust, she goes for a knee drop across the neck, but Summer rolls aside and dives into the corner, tagging out. Mary Ellen nails Chris in the face with a modified axe kick as he attempts to step between the ropes, knocking him off the apron. The fans go absolutely insane at the stunning display of teamwork. Mary Ellen turns around just in time to get a chop block to the knees as Mosh dives under the ropes. Mosh reaches down, and pulls Mary Ellen up, just as Summer leaps up on the top rope. She launches with a shooting star press, aiming for Mary Ellen who rolls away and instead Summer Page and Chris Mosh collide. Summer rolls out of the ring, clutching her ribs just as Mary Ellen makes the hot tag back to Samantha Tolson – HOLY SHIT! Beautiful Oblivion Rendezvous (cross Rhodes) and Mosh is out of it. Tolson hooks the leg and Summer is still too out of it from the crash landing to break up the pinfall.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Mosh gets the shoulder up, but it's a split second too late!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): SAMANTHA TOLSON & MARY ELLEN HARRISON
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
MONSTER'S BALL
MATT KNOX vs SUPREME MACHINE
The drumfill intro of 'Zetite' by Illnath seeps from the PA system as the ballroom goes completely black. The rapidfire drumming of the song and the intro riff hits the arena like a ten ton hammer and as the growling vocals by Narrenschiff begin, some fog begins to form on the entranceway. Slowly, a figure can be seen walking into the fog, spreading its hands into a crucifix pose as a bright light backlights it. The shadow pulls its hands back, crossing 'em on its chest, causing a large pyro, which evaporates the fog, revealing The Supreme Machine standing there, his head held down and hands crossed across his chest. As the lights begin to slowly return, SuMa glares around from beneath his hair, and begins to slowly walk towards the ring. As he reaches the ring, he slowly slides in from through the ropes, gets up in the middle of the ring and whips his head up in a rapid motion, revealing his masked face.
'Hell Broke Luce' bursts forth to the raucous cheering of the audience as the house lights dim to a dull blue color. Supreme Machine stands still in the middle of the ring, staring at the entryway and awaits Knox….who doesn’t appear. SuMa shifts his weight, eyes narrowing. He makes a move toward the ropes when suddenly the lights, music, and seemingly all power cut out. The audience comes alive with screams and cheers, only going up an octave with the all too familiar voice of Matt Knox booms forth from the house speakers.
MATT KNOX
Machine...you didn’t think it would be so EASY tonight, did you?
The giant video board above the entryway comes to life, filled with the image of Matt Knox in a dingy, dimly lit room backstage. The very one where not long ago, SuMA had tried to end his career.
MATT KNOX
See, Machine...this fight? This is on principle. This is your penance….but the war? This horrible, horrible war? It's over. I fired the silver bullet right into what was once your heart. Because now….you’re no enigma. You’re no monster...you’re just a man. A scared, angry little man who misses his mother terribly….All you are now? All we know you as? Is…
And with that, a spotlight shines on a section of seats, suddenly seated with a group of people dressed in Knox apparel and wearing masks resembling his face paint (available NOW at shop.UPRISING.com), all of them holding up individual signs that together form the name..
THOMAS RIVERS
Matthew’s cackling is cut off as the lights come back up to find Supreme Machine has hopped the guard rail and barrels right into the group with the signs! He is bellowing in anger and swinging like a man possessed, physically grabbing and throwing the offending fans aside! One poor bastard is lifted by his masked face and slammed into the seat!! The rest begin to Scatter, Suma snatches blindly...when suddenly one of the fans leaps from the rest--wait--THATS KNOX!! He drives SuMa back and into another seating section, the fans scatter! SuMa swings wildly but Knox ducks and returns fire with a thunderous uppercut!!
SuMa straightens up, and suddenly the two men are standing across from each other. Knox raises his hands in a traditional Muay Thai stance, staring down SuMa whose shoulders heave with the angry and terrible breaths he takes. With a bellow from SuMa and a roar from Knox, the two lunge at each other and the fists begin to fly! It’s an all out brawl! SuMa swings wildly and Knox ducks it, leaping and nailing SuMa with a thrust kick before grabbing a chair and bashing him in the back of the head with it. SuMa Stumbles and Knox is like a man possessed. He grabs chairs and hucks them at The Machine, fans scatter as SuMa does his best to cover up from the barrage.
Knox leaps upon a guard rail, waiting for a moment before leaping off toward SuMa..only for SUMA to catch Knox and chokeslam him into a section of seating! The cameraman following this barely manages to keep the action in the frame as he is mobbed by fans trying desperately to escape the battling monsters. As it manages to steady, we find SuMa has Knox lifted off the ground with both hands around his throat! Knox manages to bend his knees enough to kick SuMa in the face and free himself. And with a yell he spears SuMa into and over the railing, causing them both to crash on the steps!
SuMa is first to his feet and pays Knox a stiff kick to the side of the head that sends him tumbling down the steps back down to the ground level. He gets up and looks to create some distance, moving behind the curtain to the back. Supreme Machine can be heard laughing as he pursues, the camera catching his words as he shoves by it.
SUPREME MACHINE
Run, Little Raven, run….
He pushes past the curtain, the camera pursues...to find the backstage pitch black, save for one steadily pulsing strobe light at the end of the hall. SuMa’s shoulders can be seen heaving with each angry breath, in anything but the mood for these games. He slowly stalks down the hallway, every other step visible due to the lighting. With a bellow he busts in a door, only to find the room unoccupied. As SuMa backs out..MATT KNOX LEAPS FROM HIS HIDING SPOT WITH A BAT! HE BEGINS LAYING INTO SUMA! THE MONSTER BELLOWS IN PAIN AND RAGE AS KNOX TEES OFF!!
Eventually, they spill past a second curtain into a lit hallway. Staff scatters out of the way as Knox leaps from behind the curtain and BREAKS THE BAT OVER SUMA’’S HEAD! SuMa simply stares at Knox as a trickle of blood flows over his face from his busted scalp. Knox sneers up at him even as SuMa snatches Knox by his face, slamming his head into the wall once, twice, three times! The drywall caves in. With a bellow, SuMa lifts Knox up and begins to squeeze. Knox remains motionless..UNTIL HE LIFTS THE BUSTED HANDLE OF THE BAT AND STABS IT INTO THE SHOULDER OF SUPREME MACHINE!! SuMa roars in pain, dropping Knox and backing away!!
Matthew wastes no time as he runs forward and leaps upon SuMa’s back, going for the Katahajime but SuMa reaches behind him, snatching Knox by his hair and yanking him over his shoulder, slamming him onto the ground. He lifts a foot to stomp on Knox’s skull but Knox manages to evade, rolling out of the way and using a wall to lift himself. He clenches up as SuMa is upon him, raining down hammering hands that drive Knox down to one knee. With an unearthly scream, SuMa rips the piece of bat from his shoulder and brings it down to try and stab Knox!!
Knox does all he can to hold off the attempt but it’s a losing battle as slowly, Suma pushes the bloodied, splintered shard of wood toward his nemesis.
SUPREME MACHINE
Let's see you fight... WITHOUT YOUR ARM!!
And with one final shove, SuMa drives the stake into Knox’s shoulder. In an instant, Knox cries out in pain but manages to headbutt SuMa directly in the nose. A loud crack echoes through the halls as SuMa backs away, swiping at the pain in his face as more blood flows now. Knox gets up, his body tightly wound and trembling. He cries out again as he pulls the chunk of wood free, discarding it down the hall. They aren’t done! Knox leaps at SuMa, driving them both out a set of exit doors and into the parking lot! Knox manages to get on top of SuMa and begins driving stiff right hands into the monster’s bloody face..BUT SUMA DRIVES A THUMB INTO THE OPEN WOUND IN HIS SHOULDER!!
Knox cries out in pain but is silenced by a backhand from SuMa! SuMa gets up shakily, only to have Knox come back up and begin laying stiff kicks into his hip! SuMa swings wildly but Knox ducks under it, snatching the arm and taking SuMa over with a hip toss! He keeps a hold of the arm, and locks in an arm bar….HE BEGINS DIGGING A HEEL INTO THE WOUND IN SUMAS SHOULDER AS HE WRENCHES THE ARM!! SUMA BELLOWS IN PAIN BUT HE IS SOON SILENCED BY KNOX REPEATEDLY DRIVING HEEL KICKS INTO SUMAS FACE!!
SuMa eventually fights through the pain long enough to snatch Knox by the ankle and rip him off the arm in a beastly show of strength. Knox is to his feet first, setting his feet and squaring up as he waits for SuMa to stand. His shoulder and chest are covered in blood from the sound in his shoulder, his mouth bleeds from either an errant shot or internal injuries. His eyes burn with a searing hatred, matched only by the ones boring forth from SuMa’s crimson mask. SuMa charges Knox, lifting him and driving him into a wall of the casino! He rears back and drives his shoulders into the ribs of Knox once more with such force it causes a bloody spittle to fly forth from his mouth.
SuMa lifts Knox up and with a bellow charges a nearby station wagon--wait..THATS A HEARSE!! He throws Knox onto the hood..BUT KNOX SNAGS HIM IN A SIDE CHOKEHOLD!! SuMa bellows and tries to push up but Knox locks in a body scissors! SuMa crawls onto the hood, causing Knox to break the body scissors and take a widened, standing base. With a yell of effort he twists, and throws SuMa crashing through the windshield!! Knox begins to hecticly shove SuMa with his boot. As soon as the monster is inside, Knox hops off the roof. He walks up to the camera and through ragged, wet breaths speaks.
MATT KNOX
Might wanna get wide for this shot, kid.
And Knox climbs into the driver’s seat of the hearse. The engine roars to life and Knox pulls out of the space, driving out to the parking lot. He aims the hearse at a parked and emptied equipment truck, and shoves it in park. SuMa can be seen stirring as Knox steps out, grabbing something from the floor of the car...the camera zooms in..ITS A CINDER BLOCK!! NO!!! Knox sets it firmly on the accelerator, and drags the gear shift down to D before stepping back quickly and watching the limo careen toward the equipment truck. He flinches slightly, but not as much as the cameraman as the sickening sound of metal on metal rings out.
Knox laughs for a moment, before shrinking from the pain in his ribs. He walks with a purposeful toward the hearse. As he arrives, he ducks down by the front of the hearse as if he’s set something to wait...ITS A GAS CAN! KNOX BEGINS TO POUR GAS ALL OVER THE HEARSE! The cameraman can be heard muttering as Knox works.
VICTORIA STRADER
Kerosene burns faster and is easier to ignite, Knoxxy!
BERT MCALROY
OR..fucking..DON’T, dude!
Matthew drops the can, looking at the arriving Victoria Nash Strader and Bert McAlroy, who also doubled as his lighting assistant for the night. He stares at them, before producing a zippo lighter and flicking it to life. With a small smile he says.
MATT KNOX
I tried...the Mercy. Now….THE MURDER!
And he tosses the Zippo! THE HEARSE GOES UP IN FLAMES!! CREW CAN ALREADY BE HEARD RUNNING TOWARD THE FIRE AS KNOX STARES AT THE FLAMES BLANKLY...Suddenly there’s a loud thud! Knox goes rigid. Bert and Victoria begin herding crew away, and in an instant the back of the Hearse busts open and SuMa steps out! He’s singed, still smoking! His mask has been torn off, likely having caught fire! He’s covered in blood and looks like something that just crawled from the deepest pits of hell. He roars out at Knox who roars back and charges in once more!
SuMa and Knox begin brawling like a pair of apex predators fighting over the last bit of game in a dying land! Ref Stef begins wincing as she looks around, seeing the pools of the blood, the fire that has begun to spread.
REF STEF
This is crazy. I’m gonna stop this. HEY TIMEKEEPER RING T-
??
DON'T YOU FUCKING DARE!
JACKSON shoves himself through the crew that's trying to direct traffic and the General Manager shouts at Ref Stef over the chaos.
JACKSON
THIS SHIT ENDS TONIGHT, YOU HEAR ME?! YOU DO NOT STOP THIS UNTIL THERE IS A WINNER, AM I CLEA-- FUCK, LOOK OUT!!
Jax snags Ref Stef and pulls her out of the way as the two careen by, still trading shots and running on adrenaline alone. SuMa scores a vicious blow that sends Knox reeling into the building. He is somehow able to slide out of the way of a fist that SuMa sends at him, causing SuMa to punch the casino wall! The stucco cracks from the force as Knox decides to head up. He begins climbing a ladder to the roof of the building. SuMa stares upwards at him, sneering.
SUPREME MACHINE
You can’t fly from me, RAVEN.
He declares as he pursues Knox upward. The cameraman scales to the roof of another nearby equipment truck and refocuses on the roof. Knox reaches the roof first, and almost falls standing up. He leans down, resting his hands on his knees as he tries to regain his composure. He doesn’t have long as SuMa appears and is instantly on him, lifting Knox by the tights and heaving him into one of the AC units! The sound of metal on flesh is uncomfortably loud as Knox drops out of shot. SuMa lifts the seemingly lifeless Knox by his hair. He regards him, before declaring for all of Reno, holding Knox out by his scalp.
SUPREME MACHINE
I TOLD YOU. THE RAVEN FALLS!!
He lifts Knox up onto his shoulders, going for APEX ULTIMA..BUT KNOX IS ALIVE! HE SLIPS DOWN AND LOCKS IN THE KATAHAJIME!! ALMOST!! HE STRUGGLES TRAPPING SUMAS ARM AS THE BLOOD PUMPS GROTESQUELY FROM THE STAB WOUND!!! Knox leaps up, driving his knees in SuMa’s back and trying to pull back for the lung blower but SuMa struggles against it! He stumbles around and THEY FALL FROM THE ROOF ONTO THE EQUIPMENT TRUCK, THROUGH THE ROOF! THE CAMERAMAN GOES WITH THEM THE FEED CUTTING OUT FOR A MOMENT.
Production cuts to a second camera as it runs up to the wreckage. The crew, the ref, and even BRAD JACKSON are seen prying the bent doors open! The cameraman is pulled out first, more shaken than hurt. Brad surveys the scene as the camera zooms in..KNOX IS LAID ON TOP OF SUMA!!
JACKSON
FUCKING COUNT IT, REF!!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
'Hell Broke Luce' rings through the arena as the EMTS arrive and work to pull the two out of the truck. Bert McAlroy, and Victoria Strader are both shown off to the side, looking incredibly concerned. Jennifer Rivers is seen nearby, looking shocked at the display as well.
'Hell Broke Luce' bursts forth to the raucous cheering of the audience as the house lights dim to a dull blue color. Supreme Machine stands still in the middle of the ring, staring at the entryway and awaits Knox….who doesn’t appear. SuMa shifts his weight, eyes narrowing. He makes a move toward the ropes when suddenly the lights, music, and seemingly all power cut out. The audience comes alive with screams and cheers, only going up an octave with the all too familiar voice of Matt Knox booms forth from the house speakers.
MATT KNOX
Machine...you didn’t think it would be so EASY tonight, did you?
The giant video board above the entryway comes to life, filled with the image of Matt Knox in a dingy, dimly lit room backstage. The very one where not long ago, SuMA had tried to end his career.
MATT KNOX
See, Machine...this fight? This is on principle. This is your penance….but the war? This horrible, horrible war? It's over. I fired the silver bullet right into what was once your heart. Because now….you’re no enigma. You’re no monster...you’re just a man. A scared, angry little man who misses his mother terribly….All you are now? All we know you as? Is…
And with that, a spotlight shines on a section of seats, suddenly seated with a group of people dressed in Knox apparel and wearing masks resembling his face paint (available NOW at shop.UPRISING.com), all of them holding up individual signs that together form the name..
THOMAS RIVERS
Matthew’s cackling is cut off as the lights come back up to find Supreme Machine has hopped the guard rail and barrels right into the group with the signs! He is bellowing in anger and swinging like a man possessed, physically grabbing and throwing the offending fans aside! One poor bastard is lifted by his masked face and slammed into the seat!! The rest begin to Scatter, Suma snatches blindly...when suddenly one of the fans leaps from the rest--wait--THATS KNOX!! He drives SuMa back and into another seating section, the fans scatter! SuMa swings wildly but Knox ducks and returns fire with a thunderous uppercut!!
SuMa straightens up, and suddenly the two men are standing across from each other. Knox raises his hands in a traditional Muay Thai stance, staring down SuMa whose shoulders heave with the angry and terrible breaths he takes. With a bellow from SuMa and a roar from Knox, the two lunge at each other and the fists begin to fly! It’s an all out brawl! SuMa swings wildly and Knox ducks it, leaping and nailing SuMa with a thrust kick before grabbing a chair and bashing him in the back of the head with it. SuMa Stumbles and Knox is like a man possessed. He grabs chairs and hucks them at The Machine, fans scatter as SuMa does his best to cover up from the barrage.
Knox leaps upon a guard rail, waiting for a moment before leaping off toward SuMa..only for SUMA to catch Knox and chokeslam him into a section of seating! The cameraman following this barely manages to keep the action in the frame as he is mobbed by fans trying desperately to escape the battling monsters. As it manages to steady, we find SuMa has Knox lifted off the ground with both hands around his throat! Knox manages to bend his knees enough to kick SuMa in the face and free himself. And with a yell he spears SuMa into and over the railing, causing them both to crash on the steps!
SuMa is first to his feet and pays Knox a stiff kick to the side of the head that sends him tumbling down the steps back down to the ground level. He gets up and looks to create some distance, moving behind the curtain to the back. Supreme Machine can be heard laughing as he pursues, the camera catching his words as he shoves by it.
SUPREME MACHINE
Run, Little Raven, run….
He pushes past the curtain, the camera pursues...to find the backstage pitch black, save for one steadily pulsing strobe light at the end of the hall. SuMa’s shoulders can be seen heaving with each angry breath, in anything but the mood for these games. He slowly stalks down the hallway, every other step visible due to the lighting. With a bellow he busts in a door, only to find the room unoccupied. As SuMa backs out..MATT KNOX LEAPS FROM HIS HIDING SPOT WITH A BAT! HE BEGINS LAYING INTO SUMA! THE MONSTER BELLOWS IN PAIN AND RAGE AS KNOX TEES OFF!!
Eventually, they spill past a second curtain into a lit hallway. Staff scatters out of the way as Knox leaps from behind the curtain and BREAKS THE BAT OVER SUMA’’S HEAD! SuMa simply stares at Knox as a trickle of blood flows over his face from his busted scalp. Knox sneers up at him even as SuMa snatches Knox by his face, slamming his head into the wall once, twice, three times! The drywall caves in. With a bellow, SuMa lifts Knox up and begins to squeeze. Knox remains motionless..UNTIL HE LIFTS THE BUSTED HANDLE OF THE BAT AND STABS IT INTO THE SHOULDER OF SUPREME MACHINE!! SuMa roars in pain, dropping Knox and backing away!!
Matthew wastes no time as he runs forward and leaps upon SuMa’s back, going for the Katahajime but SuMa reaches behind him, snatching Knox by his hair and yanking him over his shoulder, slamming him onto the ground. He lifts a foot to stomp on Knox’s skull but Knox manages to evade, rolling out of the way and using a wall to lift himself. He clenches up as SuMa is upon him, raining down hammering hands that drive Knox down to one knee. With an unearthly scream, SuMa rips the piece of bat from his shoulder and brings it down to try and stab Knox!!
Knox does all he can to hold off the attempt but it’s a losing battle as slowly, Suma pushes the bloodied, splintered shard of wood toward his nemesis.
SUPREME MACHINE
Let's see you fight... WITHOUT YOUR ARM!!
And with one final shove, SuMa drives the stake into Knox’s shoulder. In an instant, Knox cries out in pain but manages to headbutt SuMa directly in the nose. A loud crack echoes through the halls as SuMa backs away, swiping at the pain in his face as more blood flows now. Knox gets up, his body tightly wound and trembling. He cries out again as he pulls the chunk of wood free, discarding it down the hall. They aren’t done! Knox leaps at SuMa, driving them both out a set of exit doors and into the parking lot! Knox manages to get on top of SuMa and begins driving stiff right hands into the monster’s bloody face..BUT SUMA DRIVES A THUMB INTO THE OPEN WOUND IN HIS SHOULDER!!
Knox cries out in pain but is silenced by a backhand from SuMa! SuMa gets up shakily, only to have Knox come back up and begin laying stiff kicks into his hip! SuMa swings wildly but Knox ducks under it, snatching the arm and taking SuMa over with a hip toss! He keeps a hold of the arm, and locks in an arm bar….HE BEGINS DIGGING A HEEL INTO THE WOUND IN SUMAS SHOULDER AS HE WRENCHES THE ARM!! SUMA BELLOWS IN PAIN BUT HE IS SOON SILENCED BY KNOX REPEATEDLY DRIVING HEEL KICKS INTO SUMAS FACE!!
SuMa eventually fights through the pain long enough to snatch Knox by the ankle and rip him off the arm in a beastly show of strength. Knox is to his feet first, setting his feet and squaring up as he waits for SuMa to stand. His shoulder and chest are covered in blood from the sound in his shoulder, his mouth bleeds from either an errant shot or internal injuries. His eyes burn with a searing hatred, matched only by the ones boring forth from SuMa’s crimson mask. SuMa charges Knox, lifting him and driving him into a wall of the casino! He rears back and drives his shoulders into the ribs of Knox once more with such force it causes a bloody spittle to fly forth from his mouth.
SuMa lifts Knox up and with a bellow charges a nearby station wagon--wait..THATS A HEARSE!! He throws Knox onto the hood..BUT KNOX SNAGS HIM IN A SIDE CHOKEHOLD!! SuMa bellows and tries to push up but Knox locks in a body scissors! SuMa crawls onto the hood, causing Knox to break the body scissors and take a widened, standing base. With a yell of effort he twists, and throws SuMa crashing through the windshield!! Knox begins to hecticly shove SuMa with his boot. As soon as the monster is inside, Knox hops off the roof. He walks up to the camera and through ragged, wet breaths speaks.
MATT KNOX
Might wanna get wide for this shot, kid.
And Knox climbs into the driver’s seat of the hearse. The engine roars to life and Knox pulls out of the space, driving out to the parking lot. He aims the hearse at a parked and emptied equipment truck, and shoves it in park. SuMa can be seen stirring as Knox steps out, grabbing something from the floor of the car...the camera zooms in..ITS A CINDER BLOCK!! NO!!! Knox sets it firmly on the accelerator, and drags the gear shift down to D before stepping back quickly and watching the limo careen toward the equipment truck. He flinches slightly, but not as much as the cameraman as the sickening sound of metal on metal rings out.
Knox laughs for a moment, before shrinking from the pain in his ribs. He walks with a purposeful toward the hearse. As he arrives, he ducks down by the front of the hearse as if he’s set something to wait...ITS A GAS CAN! KNOX BEGINS TO POUR GAS ALL OVER THE HEARSE! The cameraman can be heard muttering as Knox works.
VICTORIA STRADER
Kerosene burns faster and is easier to ignite, Knoxxy!
BERT MCALROY
OR..fucking..DON’T, dude!
Matthew drops the can, looking at the arriving Victoria Nash Strader and Bert McAlroy, who also doubled as his lighting assistant for the night. He stares at them, before producing a zippo lighter and flicking it to life. With a small smile he says.
MATT KNOX
I tried...the Mercy. Now….THE MURDER!
And he tosses the Zippo! THE HEARSE GOES UP IN FLAMES!! CREW CAN ALREADY BE HEARD RUNNING TOWARD THE FIRE AS KNOX STARES AT THE FLAMES BLANKLY...Suddenly there’s a loud thud! Knox goes rigid. Bert and Victoria begin herding crew away, and in an instant the back of the Hearse busts open and SuMa steps out! He’s singed, still smoking! His mask has been torn off, likely having caught fire! He’s covered in blood and looks like something that just crawled from the deepest pits of hell. He roars out at Knox who roars back and charges in once more!
SuMa and Knox begin brawling like a pair of apex predators fighting over the last bit of game in a dying land! Ref Stef begins wincing as she looks around, seeing the pools of the blood, the fire that has begun to spread.
REF STEF
This is crazy. I’m gonna stop this. HEY TIMEKEEPER RING T-
??
DON'T YOU FUCKING DARE!
JACKSON shoves himself through the crew that's trying to direct traffic and the General Manager shouts at Ref Stef over the chaos.
JACKSON
THIS SHIT ENDS TONIGHT, YOU HEAR ME?! YOU DO NOT STOP THIS UNTIL THERE IS A WINNER, AM I CLEA-- FUCK, LOOK OUT!!
Jax snags Ref Stef and pulls her out of the way as the two careen by, still trading shots and running on adrenaline alone. SuMa scores a vicious blow that sends Knox reeling into the building. He is somehow able to slide out of the way of a fist that SuMa sends at him, causing SuMa to punch the casino wall! The stucco cracks from the force as Knox decides to head up. He begins climbing a ladder to the roof of the building. SuMa stares upwards at him, sneering.
SUPREME MACHINE
You can’t fly from me, RAVEN.
He declares as he pursues Knox upward. The cameraman scales to the roof of another nearby equipment truck and refocuses on the roof. Knox reaches the roof first, and almost falls standing up. He leans down, resting his hands on his knees as he tries to regain his composure. He doesn’t have long as SuMa appears and is instantly on him, lifting Knox by the tights and heaving him into one of the AC units! The sound of metal on flesh is uncomfortably loud as Knox drops out of shot. SuMa lifts the seemingly lifeless Knox by his hair. He regards him, before declaring for all of Reno, holding Knox out by his scalp.
SUPREME MACHINE
I TOLD YOU. THE RAVEN FALLS!!
He lifts Knox up onto his shoulders, going for APEX ULTIMA..BUT KNOX IS ALIVE! HE SLIPS DOWN AND LOCKS IN THE KATAHAJIME!! ALMOST!! HE STRUGGLES TRAPPING SUMAS ARM AS THE BLOOD PUMPS GROTESQUELY FROM THE STAB WOUND!!! Knox leaps up, driving his knees in SuMa’s back and trying to pull back for the lung blower but SuMa struggles against it! He stumbles around and THEY FALL FROM THE ROOF ONTO THE EQUIPMENT TRUCK, THROUGH THE ROOF! THE CAMERAMAN GOES WITH THEM THE FEED CUTTING OUT FOR A MOMENT.
Production cuts to a second camera as it runs up to the wreckage. The crew, the ref, and even BRAD JACKSON are seen prying the bent doors open! The cameraman is pulled out first, more shaken than hurt. Brad surveys the scene as the camera zooms in..KNOX IS LAID ON TOP OF SUMA!!
JACKSON
FUCKING COUNT IT, REF!!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
'Hell Broke Luce' rings through the arena as the EMTS arrive and work to pull the two out of the truck. Bert McAlroy, and Victoria Strader are both shown off to the side, looking incredibly concerned. Jennifer Rivers is seen nearby, looking shocked at the display as well.
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): MATT KNOX
CUT TO:
EXT. SOMEWHERE IN RENO
The words RECORDED EARLIER flash across the bottom of the screen as the view opens up to "OLD SCHOOL COOL" DON TIRRI sitting behind a table with all kinds of pictures and posters and whatnot strewn across it. Behind him, there's a huge banner stating "Meet & Greet the UPRISING Workhorse Don Tirri". The big Finn seems to be in full peddler-mode as he chats up the fans who come up to him, signs autographs and poses for pictures. This goes on for a while until a sharp-dressed man walks up with a mic and starts speaking.
HOST
Ladies and gentlemen, it is now time for the main attraction of this event! We have selected fans from the audience and they are allowed to ask whatever they desire from the man sitting behind that table, the one and only Don Tirri!
The crowd cheers, while Tirri himself looks equal parts anxious and excited. He clearly didn’t expect such a turnout.
HOST
First off, we have Dean who has come all the way from Seattle to witness this show! Dean, the floor is yours!
A wiry man in his early 20’s walks up to the podium. He is wearing Tirri’s merch, and looks very nervous.
DEAN
Hi, Don! It’s such an honor to be able to do this! So... how do you feel about the fact that Sativa who was handpicked as the first name for this match is no longer participating in the match or even in the company.... and Crystal Z has been put in the match? Is this a valid trade and do you think all involved deserve to be in the match?
Tirri groans a bit at the mention of the two women he probably dislikes more than anyone in the world outside of Esme Thunder. But like a pro he manages to keep his voice neutral as he responds.
DON TIRRI
Well... Sativa--
(pausing and correcting himself)
Marilyn Matthews tucking her tail between her legs and bolting after getting her ass beat by me wasn’t really a surprise. Disappointment sure, but not a surprise. And as far as Crystal goes? Let’s just say that it’s not the first time she’s opened up her mouth and gotten something she hasn’t deserved and leave it at that.
Dean thanks Tirri and leaves the podium, which is quickly filled by a woman in her mid-40’s that the host introduces as Trish from Reno. The woman offers a smile to Don, who returns it.
TRISH
You’re known for making bets on matches but always avoid betting on your own. If you had to make an exception and not name yourself… besides yourself who do you think deserves to win the match the most?
The Big Finn scratches his jaw a bit before responding.
DON TIRRI
That’s a good question, Trish. Of course, Luther is the champ for a reason, so I could say him. But at the same time, Ignis is really popular and would make a perfect representative of UPRISING. Amber and JC have both proven that they are top-level competitors and I personally find both of them to be rather agreeable. So... I don’t know. Too many good choices to give a straight up answer. I guess it’s just better for me to win it, eh?
He gives the woman a wink which causes her to blush a bit as she leaves. The host introduces the next fan, an elderly man identified as Jack from Austin.
JACK
We all know you’ve been in UPRISING since day one, so I’d be interested to hear what you thought of the changes in UPRISING since the start?
Tirri chuckles a bit before responding.
DON TIRRI
Well.. the roster has got a lot more top-heavy. When Revolution 1 aired, more or less the only star-power present was Luther, Ignis, Tolson and myself. Since then we’ve seen the addition of the likes of Legion, JC, Amber, Knox and Supreme Machine. We got a solid tag division, a burgeoning trios division and extremely heated action around the Silver State Title. Brad Jackson has been doing great work as the boss in making UPRISING a fantastic product that I can be proud to work for.
Next up we see a teenaged boy step up to the plate, identified by the host as Johnny from Reno.
JOHNNY
Ummm...Mr. Tirri...ummm.......
Looking at the kid stuttering, Tirri flashes him a disarming smile.
DON TIRRI
Take your time kid, I ain’t gonna bite ya.
The kid chuckles nervously, but nods.
JOHNNY
Oo… okay Mr. Tirri. Ummm, if you win the title, who would you want to be your first challenger?
DON TIRRI
Well… Ignis or Knox. Ignis because she is arguably the most popular wrestler on the roster and Knox because I’d love to be able to shut him up permanently. Assuming he survives his fight with the masked freak.
The kid nods and walks off with a smile on his face. The next person to enter the podium causes Tirri to facepalm, the reason becoming painfully apparent when the host introduces him as Donny from the UK. The junior Tirri gives his dad a cheeky thumbs-up.
DONNY
Hey pops! So. If you fuck it up at SOLSTICE yet again, would you consider finding a partner or two to go for the Tag or Trios belts? Maybe, I don’t know, a young rookie looking to get his feet wet in the biz? What about the Silver State? Or the rumored HC title?
Still with his face buried in his palm, Tirri groans.
DON TIRRI
I mean… tag run isn’t off the table if I find a good enough partner. We’ll talk more about that back home, aight? But as far as the Silver State or the other thing? Well, I’m not a fan of dealing with Mosh nor am I a fan of hardcore matches. But never say never.
Having gotten his answer, Donny retreats from the podium with Tirri staring a hole through his back as the last person steps up, that being the host himself.
HOST
Well, I’ll throw in the last question since honestly, I wanna know. If you could hire anyone from anywhere to UPRISING, who would you want to see as a fellow competitor?
As a response Tirri rolls his eyes.
DON TIRRI
I don’t really think about things like that. Hirings and firings are Jax’s territory and I’m more than happy to let him handle those. BUUUUT… I dunno. Nathan Thunder. Bert McAlroy. Lash Donohue. Crazy Crazy Millar. Those are a few names I’d LOVE to see on the roster. Not that it really matter though.
The host nods along and speaks up again.
HOST
Alrighty! With that said, you have the mic, Mr. Tirri. Wanna sell the fans on SOLSTICE and Terrordome?
Tirri stands up and nods, cracking his knuckles.
DON TIRRI
At CORONATION, I fell short of beating Luther for the UPRISING title. At SOLSTICE, I have another chance to claim that as my own. It’s do or die time. It’s gonna be the cream of the crop locked in that cage so whoever comes out on top deserves it.
Tirri stares at the camera as the view fades back to ringside.
HOST
Ladies and gentlemen, it is now time for the main attraction of this event! We have selected fans from the audience and they are allowed to ask whatever they desire from the man sitting behind that table, the one and only Don Tirri!
The crowd cheers, while Tirri himself looks equal parts anxious and excited. He clearly didn’t expect such a turnout.
HOST
First off, we have Dean who has come all the way from Seattle to witness this show! Dean, the floor is yours!
A wiry man in his early 20’s walks up to the podium. He is wearing Tirri’s merch, and looks very nervous.
DEAN
Hi, Don! It’s such an honor to be able to do this! So... how do you feel about the fact that Sativa who was handpicked as the first name for this match is no longer participating in the match or even in the company.... and Crystal Z has been put in the match? Is this a valid trade and do you think all involved deserve to be in the match?
Tirri groans a bit at the mention of the two women he probably dislikes more than anyone in the world outside of Esme Thunder. But like a pro he manages to keep his voice neutral as he responds.
DON TIRRI
Well... Sativa--
(pausing and correcting himself)
Marilyn Matthews tucking her tail between her legs and bolting after getting her ass beat by me wasn’t really a surprise. Disappointment sure, but not a surprise. And as far as Crystal goes? Let’s just say that it’s not the first time she’s opened up her mouth and gotten something she hasn’t deserved and leave it at that.
Dean thanks Tirri and leaves the podium, which is quickly filled by a woman in her mid-40’s that the host introduces as Trish from Reno. The woman offers a smile to Don, who returns it.
TRISH
You’re known for making bets on matches but always avoid betting on your own. If you had to make an exception and not name yourself… besides yourself who do you think deserves to win the match the most?
The Big Finn scratches his jaw a bit before responding.
DON TIRRI
That’s a good question, Trish. Of course, Luther is the champ for a reason, so I could say him. But at the same time, Ignis is really popular and would make a perfect representative of UPRISING. Amber and JC have both proven that they are top-level competitors and I personally find both of them to be rather agreeable. So... I don’t know. Too many good choices to give a straight up answer. I guess it’s just better for me to win it, eh?
He gives the woman a wink which causes her to blush a bit as she leaves. The host introduces the next fan, an elderly man identified as Jack from Austin.
JACK
We all know you’ve been in UPRISING since day one, so I’d be interested to hear what you thought of the changes in UPRISING since the start?
Tirri chuckles a bit before responding.
DON TIRRI
Well.. the roster has got a lot more top-heavy. When Revolution 1 aired, more or less the only star-power present was Luther, Ignis, Tolson and myself. Since then we’ve seen the addition of the likes of Legion, JC, Amber, Knox and Supreme Machine. We got a solid tag division, a burgeoning trios division and extremely heated action around the Silver State Title. Brad Jackson has been doing great work as the boss in making UPRISING a fantastic product that I can be proud to work for.
Next up we see a teenaged boy step up to the plate, identified by the host as Johnny from Reno.
JOHNNY
Ummm...Mr. Tirri...ummm.......
Looking at the kid stuttering, Tirri flashes him a disarming smile.
DON TIRRI
Take your time kid, I ain’t gonna bite ya.
The kid chuckles nervously, but nods.
JOHNNY
Oo… okay Mr. Tirri. Ummm, if you win the title, who would you want to be your first challenger?
DON TIRRI
Well… Ignis or Knox. Ignis because she is arguably the most popular wrestler on the roster and Knox because I’d love to be able to shut him up permanently. Assuming he survives his fight with the masked freak.
The kid nods and walks off with a smile on his face. The next person to enter the podium causes Tirri to facepalm, the reason becoming painfully apparent when the host introduces him as Donny from the UK. The junior Tirri gives his dad a cheeky thumbs-up.
DONNY
Hey pops! So. If you fuck it up at SOLSTICE yet again, would you consider finding a partner or two to go for the Tag or Trios belts? Maybe, I don’t know, a young rookie looking to get his feet wet in the biz? What about the Silver State? Or the rumored HC title?
Still with his face buried in his palm, Tirri groans.
DON TIRRI
I mean… tag run isn’t off the table if I find a good enough partner. We’ll talk more about that back home, aight? But as far as the Silver State or the other thing? Well, I’m not a fan of dealing with Mosh nor am I a fan of hardcore matches. But never say never.
Having gotten his answer, Donny retreats from the podium with Tirri staring a hole through his back as the last person steps up, that being the host himself.
HOST
Well, I’ll throw in the last question since honestly, I wanna know. If you could hire anyone from anywhere to UPRISING, who would you want to see as a fellow competitor?
As a response Tirri rolls his eyes.
DON TIRRI
I don’t really think about things like that. Hirings and firings are Jax’s territory and I’m more than happy to let him handle those. BUUUUT… I dunno. Nathan Thunder. Bert McAlroy. Lash Donohue. Crazy Crazy Millar. Those are a few names I’d LOVE to see on the roster. Not that it really matter though.
The host nods along and speaks up again.
HOST
Alrighty! With that said, you have the mic, Mr. Tirri. Wanna sell the fans on SOLSTICE and Terrordome?
Tirri stands up and nods, cracking his knuckles.
DON TIRRI
At CORONATION, I fell short of beating Luther for the UPRISING title. At SOLSTICE, I have another chance to claim that as my own. It’s do or die time. It’s gonna be the cream of the crop locked in that cage so whoever comes out on top deserves it.
Tirri stares at the camera as the view fades back to ringside.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
AFFILIATE SHOWCASE MATCH: 5BW GRUDGE MATCH
HAYLEY FIEN vs BRIDGET JOHNSON
It's time for the blow out grudge match from 5BW! Hayley Fien's clearly still using the anger from her last match against Luciana Verdoza as fuel, stalking like a tigress as Bridget makes her way to the ring amidst a chorus of boos – she seems oblivious to the negative reaction, focused instead on the woman in the ring. Bridget gets right in the ring, hurling insults at Hayley, calling her a nothing and a nobody before Fien hauls off and belts her. The crowd's into it, already fired up from the rest of the night and the moment Bridget bails out of the ring and Hayley follows, they're calling for blood. The official's trying to maintain order but Bridget disappears under the ring and comes up behind Hayley, kicking her in the back. She grabs her by the hair and tosses Hayley back into the ring and the boo birds are back out. Bridget follows her in with a baseball slide and then starts stomping a mudhole – it looks like Hayley might get out of it when she rolls aside and Bridget stuns herself but the moment she's up, she's caught in a headlock. Bridget hoists her up – JAWBREAKER REVERSAL FOR HAYLEY AND THE CROWD GOES NUTS! Hayley takes a moment to regroup, waiting for Bridget to get up and the moment she does, she goes for a kick – ANOTHER REVERSAL AND BRIDGET SWIPES HER LEGS DOWN AND FLIPS HER OVER, HOOKING THE LEG!
ONE!
TWO!
TH—NO!
Hayley kicks out of it and lift her up, but Bridget's got the strength advantage and she reverses it again, slamming Hayley back down. She steps on Hayley's hair and pulls her head back, getting a scream from Fien that's drowned out by the booing crowd. Bridget's gloating, saying she's going to finish the match and that's when Hayley snaps, unloading all the pent-up rage she's been bottling up for weeks. Hayley picks Bridget up, tossing her out of the ring – the moment she hits, Bridget rolls and starts running up the ramp, only to collide with Mary Ellen Harrison on the ramp! The crowd goes nuts as Mary Ellen catches her and whips her to the floor! Hayley Fien comes off the top rope but Bridget moves out of the way, causing her to crash into Mary Ellen. The fans are in shock as Hayley gets up, looking horrified for a moment before Bridget grabs her by the back of the head, smashing her against the ring apron before rolling her into the ring. Hayley's down and Bridget comes up with a running leg – HAYLEY MATRIX DODGES AT THE LAST SECOND AND NAILS A BACKFLIP INTO A SUPERMAN PUNCH! She looks like she wants to do further damage, but Mary Ellen tries to reason with her and that's when Bridget shoves her into Mary Ellen and then rolls her up in a schoolgirl from behind, grabbing a huge handful of tights.
ONE!
TW—NO!
Hayley gets out of it! SHE DODGES A PUNCH AND ANOTHER – OCEAN'S WAVES!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
ONE!
TWO!
TH—NO!
Hayley kicks out of it and lift her up, but Bridget's got the strength advantage and she reverses it again, slamming Hayley back down. She steps on Hayley's hair and pulls her head back, getting a scream from Fien that's drowned out by the booing crowd. Bridget's gloating, saying she's going to finish the match and that's when Hayley snaps, unloading all the pent-up rage she's been bottling up for weeks. Hayley picks Bridget up, tossing her out of the ring – the moment she hits, Bridget rolls and starts running up the ramp, only to collide with Mary Ellen Harrison on the ramp! The crowd goes nuts as Mary Ellen catches her and whips her to the floor! Hayley Fien comes off the top rope but Bridget moves out of the way, causing her to crash into Mary Ellen. The fans are in shock as Hayley gets up, looking horrified for a moment before Bridget grabs her by the back of the head, smashing her against the ring apron before rolling her into the ring. Hayley's down and Bridget comes up with a running leg – HAYLEY MATRIX DODGES AT THE LAST SECOND AND NAILS A BACKFLIP INTO A SUPERMAN PUNCH! She looks like she wants to do further damage, but Mary Ellen tries to reason with her and that's when Bridget shoves her into Mary Ellen and then rolls her up in a schoolgirl from behind, grabbing a huge handful of tights.
ONE!
TW—NO!
Hayley gets out of it! SHE DODGES A PUNCH AND ANOTHER – OCEAN'S WAVES!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): HAYLEY FIEN
The losing streak's been broken and Hayley still looks like she wants to tear Bridget apart. Mary Ellen gets up and gets back in the ring and again tries to reason with Hayley but she's having none of it! They look like they're about to come to blows, but Mary Ellen finally backs off, shaking her head. Hayley points out that she has her eye this time around and she WILL get that FIGHT Championship at Vendetta in a couple of weeks!
CUT TO:
INT. BACKSTAGE -- CONTINUOUS
In the darkness, a single spotlight comes on to reveal LUTHER THUNDER, the UPRISING Champion, dressed to compete with the championship resting comfortably across his shoulder. For a moment, he simply breathes and that spotlight glistens off the polished surface of the belt, drawing the attention in before the silence is broken by Thunder's words.
LUTHER THUNDER
Twelve shows, just twelve REVOLUTIONS since this place that we now call home started. None of us knew where this road would take us. There are companies that don’t last even this long, yet here we are now at SOLSTICE and so much has changed, so many of the ones who were part of all this at the first night have moved on. So many people have come and gone within these twelve shows and yet some of us still remain. Some of us took to this place, the fans and our peers like they took to us and are not going anywhere. Tonight, in the middle of the Mojave desert, at the TERRORDOME 3.0, ten people will go in, each getting their turn to enter the mayhem. All of them will be hoping to leave with this.
He looks at the championship, smiles and looks back at the camera.
LUTHER THUNDER
When I signed my name on the contract to be part of this roster, there were a lot of people who doubted me. Some openly mocked and ridiculed me, claiming I didn’t have what it takes anymore, that I should just be happy with what I accomplished already and make room for others. Make room for hungrier, fresher faces and names. Bradley Jackson believed in me, though. I was the first person he reached out to, despite our differences over the years. He knew talent from experience. He made me the number one seed and boy did people hate me for that. So many people came in bragging and boasting how they would win that tournament, how they would be the first ever UPRISING Champion. Every one of my opponents told me going forward how they would beat me, move on and become a champion. Not just because they believed in themselves ever so much, no but because they counted me out, they assumed that not only were they great, they were better than me. One by one I faced every last doubter, every last person who discounted and my abilities, and I moved on. I didn’t need to brag and boast. My actions, my success in the ring did enough to prove my point.
He doesn’t seem smug. It's a cold, matter-of-fact statement rather than a boast.
LUTHER THUNDER
Long story short, it culminated with me and Don Tirri at CORONATION, to crown the first champion for this great organization. Don Tirri knew exactly who I was, he thought he had me pegged, he thought he had my number and went above and beyond to make sure everyone else would know just how much (or little) and precisely what he thought of me. It could have been his night at CORONATION, his big chance to stick it to all of his doubters, all he had to do was just beat me.
He lets that thought hang for a moment, the silence saying far more than his words have.
LUTHER THUNDER
And here we are, months later. Here I am, still the reigning and defending champion and he is still looking to beat me. Not a brag... a fact. However now after 12 revolutions, we are here again. Not a tournament this time, but something far more dangerous and again so many people who are so sure of themselves. 9 of 10 people believe they will leave tonight as a champion. Order of elimination or entry doesn’t matter. Leading into this match there has been banter, insults and outright slander thrown around. People trying to get under each other’s skin, get a mental advantage by any means necessary. I’ve held my peace with the situation not because I was afraid, not because I was worried but because I have been in this kind of situation enough times to know whatever I say won’t mean a lick to my opponents.
He nods solemnly.
LUTHER THUNDER
I am aware that the odds are not in my favor in this match but to all of you who have overlooked, dismissed and shortchanged me or my accomplishments so far, I want to say something. if you win, I will have no problem congratulating you for it. I don’t need to make excuses or claims about how the result wasn’t fair or right. I don’t like doing that kind of thing but if one of you nine beats me for this championship tonight, I hope you realize that your name will be forever attached to mine when it comes to this company’s history. No amount of belittling, boasting and bragging will change that. As long as UPRISING exists and even when both it and myself are long gone, I will forever be known as the first. That is something you can never take away from me. As much work as you put in, as hard as you work to overshadow and outdo me, I will forever be there, before you. Whether you like it or not is irrelevant. So I’d take that into consideration going forward because I valued this championship. I made it what it is, built the foundation for it and how you chose to view me or treat the championship after me is up to you. Its legacy is joint with us, but the future? That is unknown. Tomorrow is not promised for anyone. What happens after June 12th is anyone’s guess.
He adjusts the championship a bit and nods again.
LUTHER THUNDER
I am not going to go into this match to give up. I will not forsake all the work I’ve put in. No. My blood, my sweat, my tears are in this. I did not phone it in once. I did this for the company that gave me a chance, for the people who believed in me and cheered me on. I owe it to them to give them my best, every match whether I am facing one opponent, two opponents, three opponents or the whole darn roster doesn’t change that. Those of us who were here from the ground up, Bradley Jackson at the helm and the fans, we are the reason this match and this championship exists. Without any of us, you would not have a match to compete in or the title to lay claim on. You could be in another company with a different collective but what we have here in Reno, Nevada tonight is UNIQUE. As truly as the solstice is the benchmark of a new season, tonight is the start of a new chapter. What has happened before may never happen again and even if it would be attempted, it probably could not be duplicated.
His hand comes up to rest gently on the face of the title.
LUTHER THUNDER
We have all sorts of fine contenders here, all driven by their own motives and incentives. If I had to name one thing in common between my opponents, I would say it is the belief that I will not leave this match as a champion. That sounds familiar, doesn’t it? Just like those other people who believed that I could not do it, yet everyone knows just how it ended. Will tonight’s result be similar or different? I guess we’ll just have to wait and see won’t we? I am ready for tonight. The fans are ready. Question is: are you ready? Because it’s time to make history. Thank you for each and every one of you for being part of tonight and making this a night to remember.
With that he walks off with the championship and we see the now-empty spotlight before the show moves on into its final advertising break before the main event.
LUTHER THUNDER
Twelve shows, just twelve REVOLUTIONS since this place that we now call home started. None of us knew where this road would take us. There are companies that don’t last even this long, yet here we are now at SOLSTICE and so much has changed, so many of the ones who were part of all this at the first night have moved on. So many people have come and gone within these twelve shows and yet some of us still remain. Some of us took to this place, the fans and our peers like they took to us and are not going anywhere. Tonight, in the middle of the Mojave desert, at the TERRORDOME 3.0, ten people will go in, each getting their turn to enter the mayhem. All of them will be hoping to leave with this.
He looks at the championship, smiles and looks back at the camera.
LUTHER THUNDER
When I signed my name on the contract to be part of this roster, there were a lot of people who doubted me. Some openly mocked and ridiculed me, claiming I didn’t have what it takes anymore, that I should just be happy with what I accomplished already and make room for others. Make room for hungrier, fresher faces and names. Bradley Jackson believed in me, though. I was the first person he reached out to, despite our differences over the years. He knew talent from experience. He made me the number one seed and boy did people hate me for that. So many people came in bragging and boasting how they would win that tournament, how they would be the first ever UPRISING Champion. Every one of my opponents told me going forward how they would beat me, move on and become a champion. Not just because they believed in themselves ever so much, no but because they counted me out, they assumed that not only were they great, they were better than me. One by one I faced every last doubter, every last person who discounted and my abilities, and I moved on. I didn’t need to brag and boast. My actions, my success in the ring did enough to prove my point.
He doesn’t seem smug. It's a cold, matter-of-fact statement rather than a boast.
LUTHER THUNDER
Long story short, it culminated with me and Don Tirri at CORONATION, to crown the first champion for this great organization. Don Tirri knew exactly who I was, he thought he had me pegged, he thought he had my number and went above and beyond to make sure everyone else would know just how much (or little) and precisely what he thought of me. It could have been his night at CORONATION, his big chance to stick it to all of his doubters, all he had to do was just beat me.
He lets that thought hang for a moment, the silence saying far more than his words have.
LUTHER THUNDER
And here we are, months later. Here I am, still the reigning and defending champion and he is still looking to beat me. Not a brag... a fact. However now after 12 revolutions, we are here again. Not a tournament this time, but something far more dangerous and again so many people who are so sure of themselves. 9 of 10 people believe they will leave tonight as a champion. Order of elimination or entry doesn’t matter. Leading into this match there has been banter, insults and outright slander thrown around. People trying to get under each other’s skin, get a mental advantage by any means necessary. I’ve held my peace with the situation not because I was afraid, not because I was worried but because I have been in this kind of situation enough times to know whatever I say won’t mean a lick to my opponents.
He nods solemnly.
LUTHER THUNDER
I am aware that the odds are not in my favor in this match but to all of you who have overlooked, dismissed and shortchanged me or my accomplishments so far, I want to say something. if you win, I will have no problem congratulating you for it. I don’t need to make excuses or claims about how the result wasn’t fair or right. I don’t like doing that kind of thing but if one of you nine beats me for this championship tonight, I hope you realize that your name will be forever attached to mine when it comes to this company’s history. No amount of belittling, boasting and bragging will change that. As long as UPRISING exists and even when both it and myself are long gone, I will forever be known as the first. That is something you can never take away from me. As much work as you put in, as hard as you work to overshadow and outdo me, I will forever be there, before you. Whether you like it or not is irrelevant. So I’d take that into consideration going forward because I valued this championship. I made it what it is, built the foundation for it and how you chose to view me or treat the championship after me is up to you. Its legacy is joint with us, but the future? That is unknown. Tomorrow is not promised for anyone. What happens after June 12th is anyone’s guess.
He adjusts the championship a bit and nods again.
LUTHER THUNDER
I am not going to go into this match to give up. I will not forsake all the work I’ve put in. No. My blood, my sweat, my tears are in this. I did not phone it in once. I did this for the company that gave me a chance, for the people who believed in me and cheered me on. I owe it to them to give them my best, every match whether I am facing one opponent, two opponents, three opponents or the whole darn roster doesn’t change that. Those of us who were here from the ground up, Bradley Jackson at the helm and the fans, we are the reason this match and this championship exists. Without any of us, you would not have a match to compete in or the title to lay claim on. You could be in another company with a different collective but what we have here in Reno, Nevada tonight is UNIQUE. As truly as the solstice is the benchmark of a new season, tonight is the start of a new chapter. What has happened before may never happen again and even if it would be attempted, it probably could not be duplicated.
His hand comes up to rest gently on the face of the title.
LUTHER THUNDER
We have all sorts of fine contenders here, all driven by their own motives and incentives. If I had to name one thing in common between my opponents, I would say it is the belief that I will not leave this match as a champion. That sounds familiar, doesn’t it? Just like those other people who believed that I could not do it, yet everyone knows just how it ended. Will tonight’s result be similar or different? I guess we’ll just have to wait and see won’t we? I am ready for tonight. The fans are ready. Question is: are you ready? Because it’s time to make history. Thank you for each and every one of you for being part of tonight and making this a night to remember.
With that he walks off with the championship and we see the now-empty spotlight before the show moves on into its final advertising break before the main event.