Post by Admin on Sept 8, 2021 1:00:51 GMT -5
LIVE FROM THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM at the historic ELDORADO CASINO in RENO, NV SEPTEMBER 11, 2021 |
INT. SILVER STATE BALLROOM — THE RING.
Before the doors open and the fans begin to file into the building, the ballroom is dark and empty. The house lights are dim. The center of the ring is lit by a single light shining down from the rafters. Inside the squared circle is the UPRISING Champion, Legion. He’s standing in the middle of the ring and he has a microphone. The shot zooms in over the ropes until he fills the frame from chest up.
LEGION
There’s a lot of shit going on in the world today. The pandemic. Hurricane after hurricane trying to wipe my city off the map. Political division created by those who want nothing more than to exploit our fear and paranoia. This right here? This could have been Revolution: an empty ballroom with wrestlers competing to silent, empty seats. It still might end up that way so all of us need to come out here every Revolution and every Supershow and fight like it’s our last battle, because it might be.
He walks forward to the ropes and leans on them toward the camera.
LEGION
Tonight I defend my title again but this isn’t like before. Hell, this isn’t like any match I’ve ever had in my entire career. See, I may be a son of a bitch but at the end of the day, this is a business. We’re here to fight and make money for however many years we have before our bodies fail us, before an injury takes us off the board.
He looks down briefly. After a beat, he shakes his head and looks up.
LEGION
But sometimes in this world, in this ring, shit stops being about earning a living and providing for your family. People cross a line and make things personal. That’s what you did, Luther, when you planted fake drugs in my car. That’s what you did when you called the cops and had me locked up. THAT’S what YOU DID when you attacked me from behind and nailed me with two chair shots to the face.
Pause.
LEGION
A few hours from now this building will be full. Thousands of people will have paid the price of admission to watch me beat you, Luther, and when I say beat, I don’t just mean win the match. I’m going to tear you apart, break you down, and leave you lying in the middle of this ring to reflect on just how much you fucked up when you came for me. I want you to remember, in that moment, that all of this is your own fault and I will not be held responsible for the injuries, pain and suffering you will endure for weeks, months or hell, maybe years after I pin you, 1… 2… 3.
FOCUS ON: His face as he stares under his brow at the camera, like something straight out of a Kubrick film.
CUT TO:
INT. SILVER STATE BALLROOM — THE RING
TAG TEAM DEBUT
THE FAMILY CROWE vs STARR/POWER
Otis is on the defensive right away as Minka comes at him swinging. He manages to avoid the worst of it until he gets flipped over with a release German suplex. Otis pops right back up, charging in with a few hard strikes before Minka sends him off again, scooping him up for a flapjack before dropping him ON HIS HEAD to a thunderous pop from the capacity crowd! Otis regroups, slapping himself in the face to ward off the cobwebs before he gets up and right into an onslaught of kicks courtesy of Minka before she makes the hot tag to Brick! Otis rolls out to the floor, landing on all fours and Brick launches over the ropes – LEGDROP TO THE BACK, ON THE FLOOR! She's up in an instant and she rolls Otis back into the ring and hauls him up to his feet. He's wobbly and he gets worse when Brick feints sending him at the ropes. He resists and it turns into a wristlock to a short-armed clothesline that turns him inside out! Brick makes another hot tag and Minka nails Otis with a basement dropkick just as he starts to rise. Minka chopblocks the leg with a dropkick and Otis falls down just an inch short of his brother's outstretched arm! Guillotine legdrop after she hauls him back and then Minka Starr's got Otis by the hair, helping him to his feet and flinging him at the Starr/Power corner where Brick is waiting. She follows him in, ducks a wild back elbow mid-splash and makes the tag to Brick! OH SHIT! HE'S DOUBLED OVER AND BRICK HOISTS HIM IN THE AIR! STALLING SUPLEX! POWER OF GRAVITY AS MINKA CRASHES DOWN WITH THE STARR FALL (shooting star press off the top rope) AND THEN ROLLS ASIDE AS BRICK HOOKS BOTH LEGS AND SMOTHERS HIM FOR THE PIN!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): STARR/POWER
CUT TO:
INT. ELDORADO CASINO — BACKSTAGE.
In the back, we see HAYLEY FIEN standing in front of the REVOLUTION raised fist that's painted on the cinderblock wall. She's already in her ring gear and ready to go for her match. With a game face on, Hayley speaks to the camera
HAYLEY FIEN
I am going to just get right to the point. No bullshit.
Hayley has the serious look on her face. Her Philadelphia accent is about to pop out.
HAYLEY FIEN
Everyone here at Uprising should take note about me and how I am coming. Sure, I had a shitty start to things but last REVOLUTION everyone saw what I was capable of doing, and I hope everyone took notice of it.
Hayley flips her blonde hair.
HAYLEY FIEN
Tonight is going to be no different because not only will I be looking for my first singles win since being signed, it's going to be a new era...
Hayley folds her arms.
HAYLEY FIEN
It's going to be the start of the Angel Ambition Era. Tonight, here in Reno. Even though 5BW started the blue heart, we are going to put that to the back burner and move on from blue hearts to bigger things.
Hayley puts on her jacket.
HAYLEY FIEN
Lil Juicy, buckle up.
Hayley turns away towards the entrance tunnel, clearly ready to cement herself as a contender by beating the man who famously won the fan poll to face Legion!
HAYLEY FIEN
I am going to just get right to the point. No bullshit.
Hayley has the serious look on her face. Her Philadelphia accent is about to pop out.
HAYLEY FIEN
Everyone here at Uprising should take note about me and how I am coming. Sure, I had a shitty start to things but last REVOLUTION everyone saw what I was capable of doing, and I hope everyone took notice of it.
Hayley flips her blonde hair.
HAYLEY FIEN
Tonight is going to be no different because not only will I be looking for my first singles win since being signed, it's going to be a new era...
Hayley folds her arms.
HAYLEY FIEN
It's going to be the start of the Angel Ambition Era. Tonight, here in Reno. Even though 5BW started the blue heart, we are going to put that to the back burner and move on from blue hearts to bigger things.
Hayley puts on her jacket.
HAYLEY FIEN
Lil Juicy, buckle up.
Hayley turns away towards the entrance tunnel, clearly ready to cement herself as a contender by beating the man who famously won the fan poll to face Legion!
CUT TO:
INT. SILVER STATE BALLROOM — THE RING.
HAYLEY FIEN vs LIL JUICY
Hayley gets a hiptoss as the bell rings but misses on a springboard dropkick when Lil Juicy hits the deck – he rolls out of the ring and The Vision applauds the maneuver, shouting encouragement! Hayley charges across the ring and launches with a springboard knee lift as he rolls back into the ring. He goes down to his knees and she backs off, letting him recover. The moment he's back up, Hayley nails the Angel Destroyer (back springboard handspring into a cutter)! Juicy hits the canvas hard and she scrambles into position for a pin, hooking the leg!
ONE!
TW—NO!
JUICY GETS A FOOT ON THE BOTTOM ROPE AND NEIL RANA WAVES IT OFF!
Back up, Juicy nails a stiff lariat and Hayley staggers back to the corner. He comes charging in for a splash, but she slips around behind – reversal! Juicy catches her arm and twists it behind her back, shoving her into the corner again. He follows her in and nails a stiff shoulder block before taking her down with a backdrop driver. As soon as they hit the canvas, Hayley scissors her legs around him and rolls Juicy over, pummeling him with a Thesz press before he bucks her off and goes to bail out to the floor – DENIED! HAYLEY CATCHES HIM BY THE ANKLE AND PULLS HIM BACK. JUICY TRIES TO KICK FREE AND SHE PULLS HIM BACK AGAIN BEFORE LOCKING IN CODE ONE (figure four) ONLY FOR HIM TO LUNGE ACROSS AND CATCH THE BOTTOM ROPE BEFORE SHE CAN PULL HIM BACK AGAIN! Juicy goes for a tornado bulldog but Hayley counters mid-move and hoists him instead, getting a huge pop from the crowd! Ocean Waves (air raid crash) and Juicy's down for the count!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): HAYLEY FIEN
CUT TO:
INT. ELDORADO CASINO — BACKSTAGE.
We head backstage where ISABELLA PAZZINI is standing by, her sister Camilla Pazzini notable by her absence.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
Hello, wrestling fans. I know it is unusual for me to appear on camera without my dear sister by my side. But... let’s just say, she’s been a negative Nancy lately. Buying into the common narrative that I have no chance against the Supreme Machine. Hmph. That is fine. Let me tell you a story. Camilla always got by in this business by being stronger. Technically superior. Me? I had no such shortcuts or advantages. I didn’t become a household name in this business by being, quote unquote... "the best". I have never been the best in this business. And yet, I’m a legend. Do you know why? I may not be the best... but I am simply the woman who BEATS the best.
She chuckles.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
Plaudits? Don’t care. Awards? Whatever. Placements on a Denzel Porter list? Couldn’t give less of a damn. What I do in that ring, what I stand for... is the ultimate curveball. So many wrestlers in this industry, they tell you they’re the best. They’re unbeatable. They’re untouchable. I am none of those things. And you know what? I’ve never pretended to be. Pretenders always get found out eventually. I’ve always been honest about who and what I am, and that is a woman who will SCREW YOU out of every damn thing you think you’re entitled to. I am a liar. I am a cheat. And if you have an issue with that? I frankly don’t care. Because you can have the size, the power, the technique... I don’t care. What I care about is three counts. What I care about is championships. And by hook or by crook, I have more three counts and more championships than anyone else on this goddamn ROSTER, save for maybe the out of commission general manager himself. You all look at this match, see this Supreme Machine, and think there’s no way little old Izzy can win. Sure. That’s fine. Because there’s barely been a major damn title I’ve won in my career where I wasn’t an underdog. Where I wasn’t fighting and scrapping against the odds. Is the Supreme Machine tough? Sadistic? Evil? Sure. But the way I see it? Either he’s an actual machine. And machines have faults. Or he’s human. And if he’s human... he’s exploitable. Either way, I can take advantage. I may not be able to beat him in a fair fight. But spoiler alert; and I’ve said this before... I DON’T FUCKING FIGHT FAIR. You can take things such as merit and shove them up your ass as far as I’m concerned.
She laughs.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
I made my name by upsetting the odds. On overthrowing the favourites. On cutting down the big tree. For all people would tell you they’re the best, they’re untouchable, let me assure you of something... you don’t become a SIX time world champion by being the best. No.
She leans in, a gleam in her eyes.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
You become a six time world champion by being a dirty, conniving, rule-breaking fucking BITCH. And THAT is what the Supreme Machine has to deal with tonight. He may be the Supreme Machine, but me...?
She grins, her eyes gleaming.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
I’m the Supreme Fucking Virus.
We head back to ringside.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
Hello, wrestling fans. I know it is unusual for me to appear on camera without my dear sister by my side. But... let’s just say, she’s been a negative Nancy lately. Buying into the common narrative that I have no chance against the Supreme Machine. Hmph. That is fine. Let me tell you a story. Camilla always got by in this business by being stronger. Technically superior. Me? I had no such shortcuts or advantages. I didn’t become a household name in this business by being, quote unquote... "the best". I have never been the best in this business. And yet, I’m a legend. Do you know why? I may not be the best... but I am simply the woman who BEATS the best.
She chuckles.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
Plaudits? Don’t care. Awards? Whatever. Placements on a Denzel Porter list? Couldn’t give less of a damn. What I do in that ring, what I stand for... is the ultimate curveball. So many wrestlers in this industry, they tell you they’re the best. They’re unbeatable. They’re untouchable. I am none of those things. And you know what? I’ve never pretended to be. Pretenders always get found out eventually. I’ve always been honest about who and what I am, and that is a woman who will SCREW YOU out of every damn thing you think you’re entitled to. I am a liar. I am a cheat. And if you have an issue with that? I frankly don’t care. Because you can have the size, the power, the technique... I don’t care. What I care about is three counts. What I care about is championships. And by hook or by crook, I have more three counts and more championships than anyone else on this goddamn ROSTER, save for maybe the out of commission general manager himself. You all look at this match, see this Supreme Machine, and think there’s no way little old Izzy can win. Sure. That’s fine. Because there’s barely been a major damn title I’ve won in my career where I wasn’t an underdog. Where I wasn’t fighting and scrapping against the odds. Is the Supreme Machine tough? Sadistic? Evil? Sure. But the way I see it? Either he’s an actual machine. And machines have faults. Or he’s human. And if he’s human... he’s exploitable. Either way, I can take advantage. I may not be able to beat him in a fair fight. But spoiler alert; and I’ve said this before... I DON’T FUCKING FIGHT FAIR. You can take things such as merit and shove them up your ass as far as I’m concerned.
She laughs.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
I made my name by upsetting the odds. On overthrowing the favourites. On cutting down the big tree. For all people would tell you they’re the best, they’re untouchable, let me assure you of something... you don’t become a SIX time world champion by being the best. No.
She leans in, a gleam in her eyes.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
You become a six time world champion by being a dirty, conniving, rule-breaking fucking BITCH. And THAT is what the Supreme Machine has to deal with tonight. He may be the Supreme Machine, but me...?
She grins, her eyes gleaming.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
I’m the Supreme Fucking Virus.
We head back to ringside.
CUT TO:
INT. SILVER STATE BALLROOM — THE RING.
TOTAL ANARCHY CHAMPIONSHIP
SUPREME MACHINE (c) vs ISABELLA PAZZINI
The official calls for the bell, and Isabella instantly runs at the champion, peppering his chest and body with punches.... Which doesn’t really seem to faze him too much. He tilts his head to one side, and openly lets out a cruel laugh in Isabella’s face. This irks her, and she launches a vicious cracking slap right across his face. This stops the laughing, and he glares at her, before grabbing her around the throat and slamming her to the mat! He yanks her up, carrying her over his shoulder, before running and ramming her into the corner, before hoisting her up and dropping a snake eyes on the turnbuckle. He rams her into the corner again, choking her with one hand, which the official allows as it’s under Total Anarchy rules.
Realizing Isabella is in trouble, Camilla hops on the apron, barking at SuMa. He drops Izzy into the mat, before walking over to Camilla, who instantly hops down. SuMa threatens the younger Pazzini, telling her to stay the hell out of the way, but this gives Izzy enough time to compose herself, and she dives in, cracking the back of Supreme Machine’s knee with a chop block. It barely drops him to one knee, but it gives her the chance to yank his hair back, causing him to roar out, before she starts driving knees into the back of his head. As he crumples a bit, she hits the ropes, before flipping over him with a Throwback, finally downing him properly. He doesn’t stay down long though, pulling up in a temper, when Camilla flings a chair into the ring which Isabella catches. She winds up, smashing the chair into SuMa’s skull, one, two, three times. On the fourth swing, SuMa swipes his arm, knocking the chair flying out of Pazzini’s hand. He drills her in the face with a haymaker, knocking her down instantly. He yanks her across to the ropes, placing her throat across the bottom rope, and standing on the back of her neck. Isabella can’t breathe and is writhing, and turning a strange colour. Camilla dives in, and Supreme Machine hears her, getting off and turning around. Camilla doesn’t attack, just taunting the monster, who lunges at her, but she ducks out of the way. Isabella, meanwhile, rolls to the outside, coughing up a lung and trying to get her airwaves circulating.
SuMa finally manages to grab a hold of Camilla’s top and he launches her out of the ring, before turning back to Isabella, who he can’t see, as she’s rolled to the outside. He walks across to look for her, leaning over the ropes, when a fire extinguisher sprays directly in his face. He stumbles backwards, luckily the mask seems to offset it somewhat, but Izzy keeps firing it off as she climbs back in the ring. As he tries to thrash around, struggling to see, she rams the extinguisher into his stomach, doubling him over. She then hits him on the back, but he still doesn’t go down, so she wrenches his head, nailing him with a DDT! She rolls him over for a pin attempt, but the official barely counts one before SuMa launches her off of him, throwing her a good five feet! He starts to stand, still with impaired vision, and Izzy quickly rolls up, firing kicks into his skull, trying to keep him grounded. She runs the ropes again, attempting to curb stomp him into the mat, but he lurches up, causing her to merely drive her foot into the canvas. She has a momentary "Oh Fuck" look on her face before the Machine grabs her and gives a good old-fashioned YEET right out of the ring.
SuMa follows her out, grabbing her by the bubblegum pink hair, and starts ramming her head into the barricade. She tries to fight him off, but he hoists her, flinging her into the apron. He then grabs her by both legs, whirling her around and flinging her straight into the ring post. She crashes in a heap to the mat, and SuMa pulls up the apron, looking for an instrument of torture, and pulls out... a toaster?! As Isabella starts to stir, he wraps the power cord around her neck, using the weight of the appliance to add extra torque. Panicking, Isabella manages to grab the toaster, and starts smashing it into SuMa’s knee repeatedly. It takes a few shots, but he buckles, just enough for her to wriggle out of the cord. He still has a hold of the cord, but Izzy slips her fingers in the toast slot to grip it firmly, and starts punching him in the head using the toaster as an iron fist. He goes down finally and Izzy launches the toaster down onto his head. She takes her turn to look under the ring, pulling out a table, which she quickly sets up at ringside. Supreme Machine is back up, however, and as she turns from setting it up, he comes at her, ramming her back first into the edge of the table. He goes to yoink her up, perhaps to slam her through, but she kicks at him repeatedly and escapes wriggling to the apron. He goes to grab her, but she hops up, over the ropes, out of reach and into the ring. Growling SuMa clambers up onto the apron, and Izzy charges trying to dive into him and knock him through the wood, but the Machine straight up swings a massive fist and smashes her clean out of the air. He climbs in over the ropes, as she’s trying to use his legs to pull herself up, he shoves her head between his legs, raising her up and dropping her with a MASSIVE sit out powerbomb which shakes the ring!
SuMa pulls up Isabella by the arm, using force as she’s a little out of it. Camilla dives in the ring once more, shouting at Supreme Machine, and by this point, the monster is clearly sick of her shit, and he flings Bella away, turning and grabbing Camilla around the throat with both hands. He starts coldly remonstrating her, saying she made them do this, before he pulls her up in the choke bomb position, carrying her over to the ropes where the table lies below. He is about to bomb Camilla into oblivion, when...
*THUNK*
Isabella who has scrambled up behind him, pulls the bell hammer out of her boot and drives it straight upwards into the Machine’s loins. The force is enough that he drops Camilla, who desperately rolls to safety. Roaring, he turns swinging at Izzy, but she weaves out the way, before smashing the bell hammer into his face. The mask affords him a little protection, but it clearly stuns him, and she starts hitting him again and again, four, five, six hammer shots before he finally falls like a giant redwood cut down with an almighty crash. Isabella scrambles over to the corner, adrenaline running wild as she climbs the turnbuckle. And then she pulls a move out of her old school playbook flipping through the air and driving her leg into SuMa’s head and neck with the SICILIAN SENTON! The crowd comes unglued as an exhausted Isabella drapes an arm over the big man!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL) AND NEW TOTAL ANARCHY CHAMPION: ISABELLA PAZZINI
The crowd erupts as Camilla jumps up and down like crazy at ringside. She slides in, pulling up her beaten and exhausted sister, raising her arm before giving her a huge hug. The official hands Isabella the championship belt, and she grasps at it with both hands, almost falling to her knees in the moment. Composing herself, she gets up, staggering to the ropes and raising the belt up as she finally lets out that assured Isabella smile, mouthing "I STILL GOT IT". The camera hangs on the victorious new champion for a few moments, before we head elsewhere in the casino.
CUT TO:
INT. ELDORADO CASINO — BACKSTAGE.
??
They've really upgraded this place... surprisingly.
A little muffled laugh comes through KENDRICK KROSS' lips as the camera shows him laying down on one of the electrical boxes on the loading docks looking up at the ceiling.
KENDRICK KROSS
It's actually decent-looking now.
The same muffled laugh is heard once again.
KENDRICK KROSS
They actually knew what to do though obviously. On my return I get a chance to be the number one contender for the Silver State? Doing that meant they knew that I not only deserve it, but it would bring in ratings.
Kendrick pushes himself up to a sitting position, looking straight at the camera.
KENDRICK KROSS
I didn't get what I wanted before I left the first time and that's the Silver State Championship. That has to change and that's why I came back. I've watched the belt pass around like a hot potato since – not taking anything away from those who've come before me, but it's time the belt gets elevated. I came back for what I didn't get but what I will this time.
A smirk crosses his face as he looks at the camera and takes a breath.
KENDRICK KROSS
My first match back is not just my chance for a shot at it. It's against someone that I know pretty well…Griffin Hawkins. Here's the thing though, he has the mindset that is going to cause him to lose.
Kendrick shakes his head and sighs.
KENDRICK KROSS
He has that thought process of taking someone to their limit should be something to be proud of. But there's a saying. It doesn't matter if you win by an inch or a mile. Winning's winning. That same thought process can be reversed though, and it should be. A loss is a loss.
He pauses.
KENDRICK KROSS
Griffin, I didn't come here to lose. I didn't come here to have a positive mindset about losing, that's not who I am. I don't just say the things I do just because. That's because I don't have a losing mindset. If I lose it means I wasn't good. It means that I lost and it's that simple. Doesn't matter how I lost. I simply lost.
Kendrick runs his hands against the edge of the box, keeping his stare forward.
KENDRICK KROSS
That's what's going to happen to you, and you need to come to grips with that. Accept the fact that you're facing someone that came in right away and got this match. There's an obvious reason. That reason is because they know just not that I can but that I will. Griff, you can be salty all you want. If you knew you could beat me, you wouldn't have complained yet you did. It shouldn't matter who you face for a shot, unless you don't believe you can beat them. I hope you keep that mindset. It will just make it easier for me to beat you and get the shot I want and win. No matter who it is.
His voice is full of determination.
KENDRICK KROSS
See you out there, Griff…you'll be looking up at me standing over you with my hand raised in victory, showing just how weak you are. Can't wait to hear how you explain that one away.
Kendrick keeps a smirk on his face as the camera fades to black.
_____________________________________________
They've really upgraded this place... surprisingly.
A little muffled laugh comes through KENDRICK KROSS' lips as the camera shows him laying down on one of the electrical boxes on the loading docks looking up at the ceiling.
KENDRICK KROSS
It's actually decent-looking now.
The same muffled laugh is heard once again.
KENDRICK KROSS
They actually knew what to do though obviously. On my return I get a chance to be the number one contender for the Silver State? Doing that meant they knew that I not only deserve it, but it would bring in ratings.
Kendrick pushes himself up to a sitting position, looking straight at the camera.
KENDRICK KROSS
I didn't get what I wanted before I left the first time and that's the Silver State Championship. That has to change and that's why I came back. I've watched the belt pass around like a hot potato since – not taking anything away from those who've come before me, but it's time the belt gets elevated. I came back for what I didn't get but what I will this time.
A smirk crosses his face as he looks at the camera and takes a breath.
KENDRICK KROSS
My first match back is not just my chance for a shot at it. It's against someone that I know pretty well…Griffin Hawkins. Here's the thing though, he has the mindset that is going to cause him to lose.
Kendrick shakes his head and sighs.
KENDRICK KROSS
He has that thought process of taking someone to their limit should be something to be proud of. But there's a saying. It doesn't matter if you win by an inch or a mile. Winning's winning. That same thought process can be reversed though, and it should be. A loss is a loss.
He pauses.
KENDRICK KROSS
Griffin, I didn't come here to lose. I didn't come here to have a positive mindset about losing, that's not who I am. I don't just say the things I do just because. That's because I don't have a losing mindset. If I lose it means I wasn't good. It means that I lost and it's that simple. Doesn't matter how I lost. I simply lost.
Kendrick runs his hands against the edge of the box, keeping his stare forward.
KENDRICK KROSS
That's what's going to happen to you, and you need to come to grips with that. Accept the fact that you're facing someone that came in right away and got this match. There's an obvious reason. That reason is because they know just not that I can but that I will. Griff, you can be salty all you want. If you knew you could beat me, you wouldn't have complained yet you did. It shouldn't matter who you face for a shot, unless you don't believe you can beat them. I hope you keep that mindset. It will just make it easier for me to beat you and get the shot I want and win. No matter who it is.
His voice is full of determination.
KENDRICK KROSS
See you out there, Griff…you'll be looking up at me standing over you with my hand raised in victory, showing just how weak you are. Can't wait to hear how you explain that one away.
Kendrick keeps a smirk on his face as the camera fades to black.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. SILVER STATE BALLROOM — THE RING.
'VIP' by Manic Drive ft Manwell hits over the public address system inside the sold-out Silver State ballroom as the fans boo loudly. As the camera pans and soon entering the arena is none other than CHRIS MOSH, along with MARISOL VILARÓ, who stood behind Mosh as he posed, soaking in the boos from the fans. They continue with Mosh dressed in his wrestling gear, and Marisol dressed in a pair of workout shorts, a sports bra showing off her impressive midsection, a pair of running shoes, a duffle bag slung on her shoulders, and a microphone on her head. As they make their way down to the ring, Marisol can be heard making friends with the audience. She is offering to sell some supplements to some of the more overweight audience members and telling them to watch what Mosh does to Reno tonight in the center of the ring.
As she climbs up the steel steps following Mosh, she lowers the ropes and allows him to enter before returning the favor for her. As they take turns posing in the center of the ring, Mosh grabs his own microphone as Marisol turns up hers on her head. As the duo motion for the music to cut. The fan’s boos grow even louder as the two of them stand in the center of the ring, and after a few moments, the obnoxious voice of the founder of Vilaró Fitness begins to speak.
MARISOL VILARÓ
Once again, yes, I have decided to grace you all with my presence, the presence of a truly in shape and fit individual. A woman who has created a system that has now spread to both sides of the world. The woman who told you what would happen last week when Reno stepped into the ring with my client, that the VIP Chris Mosh was going to set an example for all of you, and that is what he did.
The fans boo this loudly as Marisol shakes her head smiling brightly at the fans.
MARISOL VILARÓ
He beat him in the center of the ring, showing you all the amazing results one can expect from the Vilaró System. Though none of you will ever rise to the level of me or Mosh because, let’s face it, we are better than you, you can be the best version of yourself you can be. That is something that I have made my mission and I am not one to fail in that goal. For just a small set of five payments of $59.99, you can be the best you that you can be. But what I want for those of you watching on Splat is to stand up and do some jumping jacks so you don’t end up like the people here. They’re easy and they can be the start of your fitness journey in life!
CHRIS MOSH
You people sit here and ignore us, but you could be winners like me if you just follow the Vilaró System. I mean, $59.99 is nothing for this program if you want to be a loser like Reno.
Fans cheer at the name as Chris just rolls his eyes.
CHRIS MOSH
Before I was rudely interrupted, If you want to be a loser, then just be lazy and maybe you can get famous for being on your 600-pound life, or you can become like me and be famous for following and joining in on the Vilaró System. I mean, I can sit here all night and praise this woman for what she has done with my body and mind but we are all here to see me beat up Reno again.
Marisol claps for Mosh, pointing at him, smiling very proud of her client.
MARISOL VILARÓ
You heard right from the VIP. I got some supplies on me and you make your first payment; you can go home with the Vilaró system today. So who wants it?
Drum roll! The crowd erupts as we focus on the entrance and, above it, the large video screen which flashes Reno Nevada’s logo. Cue the Irish pipes playing PIKEMAN’S MARCH as Reno Nevada walks out from the gorilla position wearing his official UPRISING t-shirt and an Irish green plaid kilt. He has a microphone in hand. After a few seconds pass his music fades down.
RENO
I gotta admit, while I was backstage taking my… "medication", I looked up at the monitor and thought I was watching a porn parody of Vanilla Sky. And not a good one. Like, I knew right away this one was just going to be nothing but those nutsack shots while Not Tom Cruise pounds Not Penelope missionary style. Thankfully for everyone here, the only assholes I’m looking at are you two.
The crowd laughs as Mosh and Vilaró shake their heads and scowl. Reno starts walking down the aisle.
RENO
I like how you two gotta come out here and shill your pyramid scheme. Ohhhh I forgot. Ol’ Marisol doesn't like it when I make jokes about her or her “multi level marketing” system. It makes that hot Spanish blood start to boil. Well, honey, unfortunately for you, the only triangle shaped program these people wanna see from you involves two dicks, a camera and getting disowned by your family back in Spain.
As he reaches ringside, Mosh and Vilaró are livid.
MARISOL VILARÓ
HOW DARE YOU SPEAK TO ME… TO US LIKE THAT!
RENO
Hey, whoa whoa, you’re right. That was out of line.
Reno climbs the steel steps and walks down the apron.
RENO
You’re a strong, beautiful and independent woman. You own your own company and deserve respect.
The crowd boos.
RENO
Now, now, folks. Making a three way joke is so 2010. So I’m sorry for that.
Vilaró, a little surprised by the apology, nods.
RENO
Unfortunately your product is a joke and all you’re trying to do is catfish these people to steal their money, but I digress. And you, Mosh. You’re… Well, to be honest, you’re basically the Robin Thicke of wrestling. You’re always saying "you know you want it" but we’re all like, no, no we don’t. Please, put it away.
The crowd laughs much to Mosh’s chagrin as Reno ducks through the ropes and stands inside the ring. He nonchalantly walks up to Mosh until the two men are inches apart, then he cups his right ear and sings into the mic with a falsetto voice.
RENO
♪ If you can't hear what I'm tryin' to say…
Mosh is a bigger cunt than Summer Page… ♪
THUD! Reno smashes Mosh in the face with the microphone and starts wailing on him!
RENO NEVADA vs CHRIS MOSH
Referee Stef Delano, the same ref that counted Reno out two weeks ago, signals the time keeper and we are underway! Vilaró jumps out of the ring as the Outlaw forces the VIP back into the ropes with the onslaught of punches. Mosh turtles up to avoid any major damage as the ref begins to count. Just before she reaches five, Reno backs up with his hands in the air. Mosh slowly lowers his hands.
Reno pulls his shirt off and tosses it out of the ring. He then taunts Mosh to meet him in the middle. The VIP slowly walks toward his opponent. The two men circle each other before locking up. They push back and forth until Mosh turns it into a side headlock. He wrenches Reno’s neck and threatens to cut off the blood supply. Mosh then releases the hold only to spin behind Reno and hooks a hammerlock. Reno hisses from the pain in his shoulder as he tries to maneuver out of it. Referee Stef Delano moves in to check on him. While she’s focused on Reno’s eyes, the Outlaw stomps hard on Mosh’s right foot. The VIP immediately releases the lock and hobbles back as the crowd cheers.
Reno rings his arm out as he turns to face Mosh and gives him a wink. The VIP scowls as he charges the other man. Collar and elbow tie up, but Reno twists his hips and tosses Mosh over. The VIP lands on his back then rolls onto his stomach. Reno jumps on top of him, trying to hook a stepover toehold. Mosh reacts quickly though and crawls to the ropes before the Outlaw can lock it in. The ref counts until Reno stands up and backs away, allowing Mosh to his feet.
Mosh confers with Vilaró briefly before letting go of the ropes and approaching Reno in the middle of the ring.
CHRIS MOSH
You think you can out-wrestle me, huh? C’mon!
Mosh waves Reno in for another lock up. The Outlaw looks around the ballroom. The crowd cheers as a smirk forms across his face. He nods okay to Mosh before walking toward him. Mosh reaches forward to grab the other man but Reno instead just kicks him straight in the gut. Mosh doubles over in time to eat a knee, sending him flipping backward and down on the canvas.
Reno bounces off the ropes and hits a leg drop then goes for the cover.
ONE!
TW—KICKOUT!
Mosh slips out from under his opponent and quickly moves to the nearest corner. Both men get to their feet, with Reno in the middle of the ring and Mosh leaning against the turnbuckle. The VIP smiles and walks toward Reno with his hand outstretched as a sign of respect. Reno looks left then right at the thousands of people before shrugging his shoulders. He reaches out to shake the other man’s hand, but at the last second Mosh fakes it and smacks the taste right out of Reno’s mouth.
Mosh laughs and throws his arms in the air as Reno takes a step or two backward. The Outlaw reaches up to touch his lip, then looks at his fingers to see a bit of blood. Reno nods his head, smiles, and holds his hand out for a shake.
RENO
You got me, boyo! Respect!
Mosh looks dumbfounded for a moment. Slowly he reaches out while keeping his eyes locked on Reno’s hand in case he tries the same trick. Their hands lock and give a firm shake but before Mosh can let go, Reno reaches up with his left hand and pokes the VIP right in the eye! The crowd cheers as Mosh stumbles away with his hand over the right side of his face. Reno is laughing it up until the referee confronts him. She gives him an official warning and threatens him with a DQ if he steps out of line again.
Reno walks around her to Mosh as he’s leaning against the ropes. Reno grabs him by the hair and drags him over to a corner and smashes his head into the turnbuckle once! Twice! Three times, before shoving Mosh backfirst into the corner. Reno then uses the top rope as leverage to deliver a series of stomps into Mosh’s breadbasket, each one causing him to stink lower and lower until he’s sitting on the mat.
Reno hurries backward halfway across the ring before charging at the VIP. He drops down for a baseball slide to the VIP’s family jewels but Mosh rolls out of the ring. Reno ends up looking at the rafters with his legs split around the steel post. Mosh grabs each ankle and yanks his groin right into the unforgiving metal! The crowd groans. This time it’s Mosh getting admonished by the referee. The VIP engages with referee Delano while leading her away from Reno. The ref has had it, giving Mosh the same DQ warning she gave Reno if either crosses the line again.
Meanwhile at ringside, Vilaró grabs both of Reno’s legs just behind the knees, anchors her feet against the steps, and leads backward, further stretching him around the steel post. Reno yells from the pain of his balls getting crushed against the metal post.
Delano turns around just after Vilaró releases Reno’s legs. The Outlaw crawls out of the corner while holding his manly parts as Mosh stalks him. The VIP steps over Reno, reaches down to lock him around the waist, and then drags him up to his feet. Mosh then lifts Reno up to deliver a German Suplex! The back of Reno’s neck plants on the canvas and he rolls over. Mosh isn’t letting go! He lifts the Outlaw up again and nails a second German. Will he go for a third? Yes! He gets Reno up to his feet, ready to deliver one last suplex but Reno reaches out and grabs Delano! While she struggles to get away she can’t see Reno kick a leg backward, right up between Mosh’s legs!
The VIP releases the hold and stumbles backward to a nearby corner while holding his groin. Delano pushes Reno back and then walks him to the opposite side of the ring. Reno holds his hands up and apologizes for grabbing her. Meanwhile, Vilaró has moved around to where Mosh is trying to recover. They exchange a few words before the VIP turns around and starts unlacing the padded cover. After a few seconds the padding is yanked off and thrown down on the canvas, exposing the steel turnbuckle. The crowd boos loudly as Mosh starts to walk across the ring.
Reno and Mosh meet in the middle. Reno sticks his chin out and welcomes Mosh to try knocking him out again. The VIP balls up his fist but has second thoughts after how that went down last time, so instead he delivers an oblique kick to Reno’s thigh, causing the Outlaw to buckle and drop down to one knee. Mosh then turns and runs at the ropes.
On the rebound, he holds his arm out for a clothesline but Reno jumps up and hits the OL’ RIGHT THERE FRED (Haymaker Punch)!! Mosh spins like a top before ending up like a pile of dirty clothes on the floor. Reno goes for the pin but before the ref can get into position, Vilaró jumps up onto the ropes and ducks into the ring! Delano gets in Vilaró’s face and is pushing her back to the ropes and ordering her to get out of the ring!
Reno has Mosh’s leg hooked! The crowd chants 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and even 6! Finally Reno jumps up to his feet to see what the hell is happening. Ref Stef is still arguing with Vilaró, even as Mosh’s fitness guru is slowly climbing through the ropes, making sure to milk every second to give her client a chance to recover. Mosh stirs and slowly sits up, still half out of it but conscious. He rolls over and stands. Reno leaves the referee to deal with Vilaró as he turns to confront Mosh in the middle of the ring. The VIP shakes off the last of the cobwebs and raises his hands to grapple Reno. He then turns and whips Reno toward the corner with the exposed turnbuckle!!!
But Reno stops himself just before crashing into the metal bracket!!! He slowly looks up and around the building while wagging a finger, then turns back to Mosh who’s still standing in the center of the squared circle. Just past his right shoulder Delano and Vilaró are still engaged in a terse argument.
Reno bends down, picks the pad off the canvas, then tosses it to Mosh. The VIP catches it and looks confused. Reno then fakes smashing his own face into the turnbuckle and stomps loudly enough to shake the entire ring before LAUNCHING himself backward! It’s a flop worthy of Danny Ainge! Reno is on his back and eyes closed. Mosh is standing over him. The referee is pulled away from Vilaró by the smashing sound and the sudden burst of cheers from the crowd. She sees Reno knocked out and Mosh standing over him with the pad in hand, not more than a few feet from the corner where the exposed, polished turnbuckle shines.
Reno is holding his face and pointing at the VIP. Delano confronts Mosh and the two engage in an argument. Mosh throws the padding away and swears he didn’t do anything but the ref isn’t buying it. Delano waves at the timekeeper to ring the bell!
WINNER (VIA DQ): RENO NEVADA
The match is over! Mosh has been disqualified! The VIP is livid! Vilaró is back in the ring and screaming at the referee! Reno, meanwhile, has rolled out, still holding the side of his head to fake the injury while backing up the aisle with a big ol' shit-eating grin on his face.
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
STATIC
We head to the parking lot where GRIFFIN HAWKINS is right by his Black Corvette Z51 Stingray. He's dressed in his trademark leather jacket with a Jack Daniel's T-Shirt on underneath. He paces back and forth, thinking on the upcoming match.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
In this business...things are never easy. You have to work for it. Unless you're one of those types who suck up to the boss...or in most popular cases, sleep with the boss...you're not going to get things handed to you. In the 15 year career I've had...I swore to myself I'd never be one of those guys who took the easy way to the top. I've become an eight time World Heavyweight Champion...not because I kissed anyone's ass...nor have I been protected or joined the boss's inner circle. I earned everything all on my own. I came here to UPRISING to continue my legacy...and the one goal I have in mind is the Silver State Title...in my first shot, I had it ripped from me, and now I have another obstacle to climb if I want my shot: Kendrick Kross.
He stops, looking at the camera.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Hey old buddy...it's been long, hasn't it? Not many know this but...we have shared quite a history. We've fought a few times in another organization. I beat you...you beat me. I've won some battles. You've won some battles. I guess you can say it's pretty even between us. So this is definitely a rivalry rekindled. But I ask you...what makes you so confident that you'll beat me? You act as if it's a given that you're just gonna come back and steamroll through me on your way to the title. Heh...the one thing that hasn't changed Kenny...is your ego.
He chuckles a little.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
You still think that just because you're big, buffed up, tattooed and have this 'take no shit' attitude...that you're going to kick everybody's ass? As if everybody on the roster is just gonna punk out to you. Meanwhile on the planet we call Earth, you're not going to have such an easy time going through me. You more than anybody on this roster should know that I am not somebody you want to overlook, especially when I got something in my sights and I won't stop until I get it. You came back thinking it's going to be an easy road to the Silver State Title...nu uh. It's not going to be an easy road..because you're looking at the biggest road block you'll come across since your return.
He smooths his hair back as he continues walking.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Your biggest enemy as long as I've known you Kendrick..is your ego. You claim on social media that you have this mentality because it keeps you confident. Well it's that same "confidence" that's cost you many matches in the past...and a few titles that you worked oh-so-hard to earn. As a matter of fact...that same confidence cost you the Silver State Title in the first place. Earlier this year at the INFERNO Supershow, you talked about how you were going to walk out of there the Silver State Champion...and what happened? You were eliminated by Sam Tolson and it was her who walked out as champion. You were so embarrassed that you ended up bailing from the company...
He goes back and sits on his car, still looking at the camera.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
And now you're back. You think after some time away...suddenly you're gonna get the title that eluded you the last time you were here? You think that anyone out there in those seats has forgotten what happened last time? The fact of the matter is Kendrick..a lot has changed since you've been gone. The competition has stepped up. People are bringing their A Game. They are proving why they belong in UPRISING. Meanwhile you come back after you've crapped out in other organizations, thinking you are gonna pick up where you left off. Well one thing you didn't count on the fact that I am in this company now. You and me have had a long and storied history...and now it continues here. If I want a shot at the Silver State Title...whether it be Gaston or Coda...I'm gonna run through you. Tonight, Kendrick is gonna get Krossed out.
He walks off as we head back to the ring.
SILVER STATE CONTENDER
KENDRICK KROSS vs GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Kross doesn't even wait for Griffin Hawkins to make it to the ring before attacking him, nailing him with stiff strikes and forearms to the chest, driving him back against the ropes. They jockey for a suplex against the ropes before Kross just brings Hawkins over the top and DOWN TO THE FLOOR! ELBOW OFF THE APRON AND THE CROWD GETS PRETTY HEATED! After the dive off the apron, Kross gives Hawkins a sucker punch without missing a beat before rolling him back into the ring, avoiding the count just as Ref Stef starts. Back in, Kross lights Hawkins up with forearms, tenderizing him before sending him down with a speedy snap slam! He drops an elbow to add insult to injury. Getting cocky, he goes for another, only to crash and burn as Hawkins rolls aside. Hawkins lays into Kross with lefts and rights as the crowd pops with each successful blow landed! Kross takes over with a Pele kick to the midsection and as Hawkins doubles over, Kross grabs him, looking for the Death Drop – REVERSAL INTO A DDT!
Kross staggers up, right into a spinning back kick that drives him into the corner! Martial arts kicks in the corner and Kross refuses to go down! Hawkins nails him with a hard chop, getting a loud "WOOOOO" from the crowd before he hooks Kendrick's head – swinging neckbreaker and Kross is down! Hawkins scales the ropes, looking for the Holy Diver but Kross gets his knees up and as Griffin rolls aside, catches him with a Kross Bar (kneebar)! Griffin strains for the ropes and Kross hauls him back – TOO LATE! ROPE BREAK AND THEY RESET! Kross tries a sunset flip but Griffin cuts him off with a knee stomp. Hawkins tries to elbow his way free and Kross catches him with a Boston crab – kick to the face and Hawkins gets free! Both men look weary as they collide yet again. Hawkins whips Kross into the corner, following him in as Kross springs on the second rope, looking for a reversal only to have Hawkins catch him in an electric chair position. Kross slams a few fists into Hawkins's head, trying to get out of the position as Hawkins looks to climb the ropes. Instead, he staggers back from the corner, dropping Kross down with a shaky German suplex that he bridges into a pin.
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO! Kross will not be denied! He kicks out!
Hawkins looks visibly frustrated as he grabs one of Kross's arms, pulling him to his feet. He looks for a pump-handle slam, but Kross breaks free and back kicks before grabbing Hawkins – THREE AMIGOS AND HAWKINS LOOKS LIKE HE'S IN A WORLD OF HURT FROM THAT LAST IMPACT BUT HE MAKES IT TO HIS FEET ANYHOW AS THE CROWD GOES NUTS! Following up before the momentum is lost, Kross kicks Hawkins in the gut and grabs him, looking for the Death Drop (1916) – NO! HE LIFTS GRIFFIN HAWKINS TOO HIGH, GOING ALMOST VERTICAL AND HAWKINS HOOKS HIS HEAD FOR A DESPERATION HURRICANRANA! KROSS HITS HARD AND HAWKINS HOOKS HIS LEGS ON THE ROLL UP!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Kendrick Kross kicks out a split second too late and Hawkins rolls to his knees, hands in his hair for a moment as he soaks in the roar of the crowd. He can't believe he's done it. Neither can Kross and he immediately lunges at Hawkins, tackling him. Security pours down the ramp as Ref Stef tries to pull Kross off and the view cuts away just as the enforcers hit the ring.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
In this business...things are never easy. You have to work for it. Unless you're one of those types who suck up to the boss...or in most popular cases, sleep with the boss...you're not going to get things handed to you. In the 15 year career I've had...I swore to myself I'd never be one of those guys who took the easy way to the top. I've become an eight time World Heavyweight Champion...not because I kissed anyone's ass...nor have I been protected or joined the boss's inner circle. I earned everything all on my own. I came here to UPRISING to continue my legacy...and the one goal I have in mind is the Silver State Title...in my first shot, I had it ripped from me, and now I have another obstacle to climb if I want my shot: Kendrick Kross.
He stops, looking at the camera.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Hey old buddy...it's been long, hasn't it? Not many know this but...we have shared quite a history. We've fought a few times in another organization. I beat you...you beat me. I've won some battles. You've won some battles. I guess you can say it's pretty even between us. So this is definitely a rivalry rekindled. But I ask you...what makes you so confident that you'll beat me? You act as if it's a given that you're just gonna come back and steamroll through me on your way to the title. Heh...the one thing that hasn't changed Kenny...is your ego.
He chuckles a little.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
You still think that just because you're big, buffed up, tattooed and have this 'take no shit' attitude...that you're going to kick everybody's ass? As if everybody on the roster is just gonna punk out to you. Meanwhile on the planet we call Earth, you're not going to have such an easy time going through me. You more than anybody on this roster should know that I am not somebody you want to overlook, especially when I got something in my sights and I won't stop until I get it. You came back thinking it's going to be an easy road to the Silver State Title...nu uh. It's not going to be an easy road..because you're looking at the biggest road block you'll come across since your return.
He smooths his hair back as he continues walking.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Your biggest enemy as long as I've known you Kendrick..is your ego. You claim on social media that you have this mentality because it keeps you confident. Well it's that same "confidence" that's cost you many matches in the past...and a few titles that you worked oh-so-hard to earn. As a matter of fact...that same confidence cost you the Silver State Title in the first place. Earlier this year at the INFERNO Supershow, you talked about how you were going to walk out of there the Silver State Champion...and what happened? You were eliminated by Sam Tolson and it was her who walked out as champion. You were so embarrassed that you ended up bailing from the company...
He goes back and sits on his car, still looking at the camera.
GRIFFIN HAWKINS
And now you're back. You think after some time away...suddenly you're gonna get the title that eluded you the last time you were here? You think that anyone out there in those seats has forgotten what happened last time? The fact of the matter is Kendrick..a lot has changed since you've been gone. The competition has stepped up. People are bringing their A Game. They are proving why they belong in UPRISING. Meanwhile you come back after you've crapped out in other organizations, thinking you are gonna pick up where you left off. Well one thing you didn't count on the fact that I am in this company now. You and me have had a long and storied history...and now it continues here. If I want a shot at the Silver State Title...whether it be Gaston or Coda...I'm gonna run through you. Tonight, Kendrick is gonna get Krossed out.
He walks off as we head back to the ring.
CUT TO:
INT. SILVER STATE BALLROOM — THE RING
SILVER STATE CONTENDER
KENDRICK KROSS vs GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Kross doesn't even wait for Griffin Hawkins to make it to the ring before attacking him, nailing him with stiff strikes and forearms to the chest, driving him back against the ropes. They jockey for a suplex against the ropes before Kross just brings Hawkins over the top and DOWN TO THE FLOOR! ELBOW OFF THE APRON AND THE CROWD GETS PRETTY HEATED! After the dive off the apron, Kross gives Hawkins a sucker punch without missing a beat before rolling him back into the ring, avoiding the count just as Ref Stef starts. Back in, Kross lights Hawkins up with forearms, tenderizing him before sending him down with a speedy snap slam! He drops an elbow to add insult to injury. Getting cocky, he goes for another, only to crash and burn as Hawkins rolls aside. Hawkins lays into Kross with lefts and rights as the crowd pops with each successful blow landed! Kross takes over with a Pele kick to the midsection and as Hawkins doubles over, Kross grabs him, looking for the Death Drop – REVERSAL INTO A DDT!
Kross staggers up, right into a spinning back kick that drives him into the corner! Martial arts kicks in the corner and Kross refuses to go down! Hawkins nails him with a hard chop, getting a loud "WOOOOO" from the crowd before he hooks Kendrick's head – swinging neckbreaker and Kross is down! Hawkins scales the ropes, looking for the Holy Diver but Kross gets his knees up and as Griffin rolls aside, catches him with a Kross Bar (kneebar)! Griffin strains for the ropes and Kross hauls him back – TOO LATE! ROPE BREAK AND THEY RESET! Kross tries a sunset flip but Griffin cuts him off with a knee stomp. Hawkins tries to elbow his way free and Kross catches him with a Boston crab – kick to the face and Hawkins gets free! Both men look weary as they collide yet again. Hawkins whips Kross into the corner, following him in as Kross springs on the second rope, looking for a reversal only to have Hawkins catch him in an electric chair position. Kross slams a few fists into Hawkins's head, trying to get out of the position as Hawkins looks to climb the ropes. Instead, he staggers back from the corner, dropping Kross down with a shaky German suplex that he bridges into a pin.
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO! Kross will not be denied! He kicks out!
Hawkins looks visibly frustrated as he grabs one of Kross's arms, pulling him to his feet. He looks for a pump-handle slam, but Kross breaks free and back kicks before grabbing Hawkins – THREE AMIGOS AND HAWKINS LOOKS LIKE HE'S IN A WORLD OF HURT FROM THAT LAST IMPACT BUT HE MAKES IT TO HIS FEET ANYHOW AS THE CROWD GOES NUTS! Following up before the momentum is lost, Kross kicks Hawkins in the gut and grabs him, looking for the Death Drop (1916) – NO! HE LIFTS GRIFFIN HAWKINS TOO HIGH, GOING ALMOST VERTICAL AND HAWKINS HOOKS HIS HEAD FOR A DESPERATION HURRICANRANA! KROSS HITS HARD AND HAWKINS HOOKS HIS LEGS ON THE ROLL UP!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): GRIFFIN HAWKINS
Kendrick Kross kicks out a split second too late and Hawkins rolls to his knees, hands in his hair for a moment as he soaks in the roar of the crowd. He can't believe he's done it. Neither can Kross and he immediately lunges at Hawkins, tackling him. Security pours down the ramp as Ref Stef tries to pull Kross off and the view cuts away just as the enforcers hit the ring.
CUT TO:
INT. SOMEWHERE IN THE ELDORADO
Cut to a dark room in the deepest recesses of the Eldorado Casino. A film projector beams a rectangle of fuzzy light onto a nearby screen. The projector engine whirrs and unraveled celluloid flaps as INTERN STEVE occupies the room’s only chair, his eyes on the blank screen, sweat beading on his brow. A breathy sigh echoes through the room. Behind Steve, REGAN VOORHEES creeps up, her red nails digging into his shoulder from behind, like an eagle clutching a helpless fish fresh from the stream.
REGAN VOORHEES
This is quite a mess you’ve created, Steve.
The hand withdraws, slinking back into the darkness. The light of the screen reflects upon Steve, giving him a deathly pallor. He attempts to swallow his fear with a cartoonish gulp.
INTERN STEVE
I just thought it’d be a nice exhibition for you and Kalinda.
REGAN VOORHEES
Yes, yes. A Swine Flew Showcase. Wasn’t that the idea, Steve? I don’t doubt your intentions. Kalinda and I have fought before, under different circumstances, and it proved to be quite the spectacle. Even us being the tag team champions wouldn’t necessarily create an issue. We’re adults, professionals, each of us perfectly capable of leaving our differences between the ropes. But this… disagreement between the two of us has created a complication.
INTERN STEVE
About the Sonic and Mario thing, how was I supposed to know it was such a big deal?
REGAN VOORHEES
How indeed, Steve? What started as a spirited debate became an argument. A tiny crack that became a fracture. Which could become a ravine if Kalinda and I can’t settle this. It’s a complication, Steve. A potentially major one. Our ability to function as a team is essential to our reign. I have no desire to put our titles in jeopardy because the two of us can’t get along, regardless of any leaps of male-impregnation logic Kalinda might have chosen to make. We could’ve talked things out. Eventually I would’ve made Kalinda see reason. But with this match looming, our combustible tensions were ignited. My hope is that we can achieve a certain catharsis in beating the shit out of each other. If the fracture grows, however, Swine Flew may very well crack like a golden egg. An undesirable outcome, to say the least. I’m sure you understand the point I’m making, Steve.
INTERN STEVE
That Mario would... uhm... im-impregnate Sonic?
REGAN VOORHEES
In addition to that.
INTERN STEVE
That this is my fault?
REGAN VOORHEES
Precisely. And while it gratifies me to hear a confession, your lack of conviction leaves me unconvinced. So, Steve. Let us discuss things further. Me, you, Kalinda, Sonic, Mario, all of it. Eyes on the screen, Steve. Look upon the horror you have wrought.
The screen crackles to life once again, with shoddy animation following. The horrors unfold, bathing the room in crayon quality colors, as Steve is forced to witness an atrocity. Regan, however, averts her eyes.
Cut to a dark room in the deepest recesses of the Eldorado Casino. A film projector beams a rectangle of fuzzy light onto a nearby screen. The projector engine whirrs and unraveled celluloid flaps as INTERN STEVE occupies the room’s only chair, his eyes on the blank screen, sweat beading on his brow. A breathy sigh echoes through the room. Behind Steve, REGAN VOORHEES creeps up, her red nails digging into his shoulder from behind, like an eagle clutching a helpless fish fresh from the stream.
REGAN VOORHEES
This is quite a mess you’ve created, Steve.
The hand withdraws, slinking back into the darkness. The light of the screen reflects upon Steve, giving him a deathly pallor. He attempts to swallow his fear with a cartoonish gulp.
INTERN STEVE
I just thought it’d be a nice exhibition for you and Kalinda.
REGAN VOORHEES
Yes, yes. A Swine Flew Showcase. Wasn’t that the idea, Steve? I don’t doubt your intentions. Kalinda and I have fought before, under different circumstances, and it proved to be quite the spectacle. Even us being the tag team champions wouldn’t necessarily create an issue. We’re adults, professionals, each of us perfectly capable of leaving our differences between the ropes. But this… disagreement between the two of us has created a complication.
INTERN STEVE
About the Sonic and Mario thing, how was I supposed to know it was such a big deal?
REGAN VOORHEES
How indeed, Steve? What started as a spirited debate became an argument. A tiny crack that became a fracture. Which could become a ravine if Kalinda and I can’t settle this. It’s a complication, Steve. A potentially major one. Our ability to function as a team is essential to our reign. I have no desire to put our titles in jeopardy because the two of us can’t get along, regardless of any leaps of male-impregnation logic Kalinda might have chosen to make. We could’ve talked things out. Eventually I would’ve made Kalinda see reason. But with this match looming, our combustible tensions were ignited. My hope is that we can achieve a certain catharsis in beating the shit out of each other. If the fracture grows, however, Swine Flew may very well crack like a golden egg. An undesirable outcome, to say the least. I’m sure you understand the point I’m making, Steve.
INTERN STEVE
That Mario would... uhm... im-impregnate Sonic?
REGAN VOORHEES
In addition to that.
INTERN STEVE
That this is my fault?
REGAN VOORHEES
Precisely. And while it gratifies me to hear a confession, your lack of conviction leaves me unconvinced. So, Steve. Let us discuss things further. Me, you, Kalinda, Sonic, Mario, all of it. Eyes on the screen, Steve. Look upon the horror you have wrought.
The screen crackles to life once again, with shoddy animation following. The horrors unfold, bathing the room in crayon quality colors, as Steve is forced to witness an atrocity. Regan, however, averts her eyes.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. SILVER STATE BALLROOM — BACKSTAGE.
We return from another SplatTV ad break to find ourselves looking at the interview stage where two director’s chairs have been set up. There’s a backdrop with the REVOLUTION logo hanging between them and a beautiful woman with honey-blonde hair walks into view, sitting down in the chair on the left. She adjusts the sleek pencil skirt she has on, making sure it doesn't ride up. Her identity is a mystery although as the words "SPILLED TEA WITH NATALIE" flashes across the screen, it’s a bit clearer. She smiles and begins to speak.
NATALIE OWENS
Welcome, Revolutionaries. I’m Natalie and tonight I’ve got the distinct pleasure to sit down with an up-and-comer who’s already making waves here in Reno. As many of you know, she’s a second generation superstar who’s competed all across the world, making a name for herself in the business over the course of the last year. Without further ado, please welcome tonight’s guest: Clarissa Claire.
The Second Generation Luchadora walks out onto the stage in a stunning, eye catching golden dress. Her wavy hair bounces with each step the high heeled star takes before she makes it to the chair and takes a seat.
NATALIE OWENS
I’m sure I speak for everyone in that audience tonight when I ask this first question: what was up with you last Revolution? Why did you walk away from that tag team match and leave Ignis on her own?
CLARISSA CLAIRE
Do you really have to ask?
Before she gets too far ahead of herself, realizing she’s on camera with all eyes on her, Clarissa stops herself and smiles. She rests a hand on her lap.
CLARISSA CLAIRE
Where are my manners? First off, welcome to Uprising. I can tell you’re not afraid to ask the hard hitting questions, and you know? I promised answers tonight. Thankfully, I’ve cleared it with management that Ignis should remain as far away from me as possible. I wouldn’t want her stepping out of line and getting herself suspended. Anywho, on to business. What happened at the last show, was I simply wasn’t ready to compete. I felt myself getting winded when I was training leading up to the event, and teaming with the ONE AND ONLY Ignis, I felt like she could carry the team. OH! And I had just got the perfect manicure, and you know how that goes.
Claire holds up both hands now to show off her golden nail polish, prompting a few boos from the audience.
CLARISSA CLAIRE
And do you want another little tidbit? The truth?
NATALIE OWENS
(nodding)
Of course. Tell me how you really feel. Spill that tea!
CLARISSA CLAIRE
I don’t like Ignis. She’s been here in Reno, she’s earned her flowers, but she wants to hog the spotlight from the up and coming women like me. That doesn’t sit right with me. She has a guaranteed title match, as if she hasn’t had enough time to win gold here. I slipped up when going after the Silver State championship, and a lot of that was because of my little interaction with Ignis backstage. Seeing her so proud of her own victory. It made me sick to my stomach.
The interviewer shakes her head, waiting for a few of the boo birds in the audience to settle down before continuing.
NATALIE OWENS
I completely understand. I've gotta say before we get too far ahead of ourselves here, that you look incredible tonight. Love the nails. And that dress...I mean, it's clear that you're not some nobody fresh off the street, living from one payday to the next -- I'm sitting here with true wrestling royalty.
She smiles, the words clearly sincere.
NATALIE OWENS
So, dish… what's next? Are you going to try and net another Silver State opportunity? Or do you have your sights set on something else?
CLARISSA CLAIRE
Thank you! You’re a dear, truly. And that hair?
Clarissa fans herself and dishes some compliments towards the new interviewer in Spanish before continuing.
CLARISSA CLAIRE
I don’t need to mention anywhere else by name, but I’ve wrestled in Miami, Canada, all around the world...and there’s always been one thing that has eluded me: Championship gold.
The fans cheer at the mention of her previous failures, causing Clarissa’s mouth to drop open as she leans away from her microphone to tell Natalie that the fans in attendance were rude.
Finally, after making them wait to settle down, Claire continues.
CLARISSA CLAIRE
My goal is to be a champion, but I know I can’t just walk in and get handed another opportunity. I’ve made a name for myself here already, more wins than losses, and can we all agree that I pushed the champ to his absolute limit? But I want another chance at some sort of gold here. I won’t throw out there exactly who my target will be because that’s just bad business. I prefer to strike by surprise. But what I will say is, if Ignis has any sort of courage in that body of hers? Not only will she accept this formal challenge...but she will put that golden opportunity on the line…
A grin crosses the Miami natives face as the fans begin to reign down boos louder than before. Clarissa taps on her microphone with the palm of her hand to silence them before she begins to scream at them in Spanish again, clearly up to no good with her remarks. Natalie does nothing to silence them, clearly understanding what’s being said as Clarissa curses them out. When the booing subsides, Natalie leans in a bit closer.
NATALIE OWENS
Tell me one thing, though: how much did you enjoy trading holds with Gaston?
CLARISSA CLAIRE
I loved every second of it. And I think if you ask him, he would agree. He said it was an honor to wrestle me, you can take my word on it. Gaston is a champion, and he proved it against me, but I think if we had a rematch things would go much differently.
Clarissa now leans forward on her chair and takes a chance to ask the interviewer a question.
CLARISSA CLAIRE
I know you can’t play favorites, but you can be honest with me...and all of these fans. That match between Gaston and I? It was a match of the year candidate, and the fans deserve to see it again...I DESERVE a rematch. Si?
NATALIE OWENS
You do! I think so. Absolutely. I mean… I guess it all depends on what happens tonight with Coda, but the fact that you went the distance and that your match with Gaston was your only real loss? That speaks volumes.
She rolls her eyes as the crowd gets a little restless again, waiting them out before leaning in as though she’s about to spill her own tea.
NATALIE OWENS
I’m sure I’ll get in trouble for telling you this, but I saw the booking sheet for the season finale on Mr. Gowan’s desk and your name was on there, next to a question mark and underneath the words "CONTENDER’S MATCH". That’s all I saw, though. Not sure which title.
The Latina's eyes light up at the revelation as she clasps her hands together in her lap.
CLARISSA CLAIRE
You are my new favorite! Here I was, giving you all the tea and you’ve completely one upped me...I think we make a good team. And I think we have a little more digging to do.
Clarissa stands up, and looks out at the fans.
CLARISSA CLAIRE
I think they’ve been blessed enough, shall we continue this conversation backstage and figure out which gold belt will be wrapped around my waist in the near future?
NATALIE OWENS
I think that’s a fantastic idea.
She stands up as well and joins Clarissa, following her as the two walk off the set and the view cuts back to ringside.
CUT TO:
INT. SILVER STATE BALLROOM — THE RING
STEVE'S CHOICE: SWINE FLEW SHOWCASE
REGAN VOORHEES vs KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
After immediately locking up, Kalinda pushes Regan away and they start vehemently arguing. Steve jumps up on the apron, trying to appeal to them to set their differences on this heated debate aside for the sake of the wrestling. Regan turns to shoo Steve away and Kalinda seizes the opportunity to sweep her off her feet. Regan sits up, right into a scorpion strike and then a knee to the face for good measure – REVERSAL INTO THE CRUELTY-FREE CHICKEN WING (crossface chicken wing variation) AND KALINDA CHOMPS DOWN ON HER HANDS TO BREAK THE HOLD! Regan screams and rears back with a hard slap across the face and Kalinda stares her down before they lock up again. Kalinda flings Regan forcefully into the corner and Regan fires back with some strikes. Kalinda ducks and gets caught with a Tigress suplex! This match is literally all over the place and the crowd is loving it! Steve is slumped against the apron, looking torn. Kalinda throws some huge punches and Regan is rocked before she takes her down with the Five Finger Crawl (von erich claw)! She flips off the second rope, looking for a dropkick but Regan rolls aside and somehow, someway, Kalinda catches herself with her tail, rights the momentum and still nails Regan in the knee with that MAGIC MISSILE! Hip toss by Kalinda and off the ropes into a hard backdrop by Kalinda – cheap roll up!
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
Back up, they lock up again. Regan rams Kalinda to the corner and then shoulder blocks, following up with an eye rake and a face-full of red mist! Kalinda whips around and nails Regan with her tail while she tries to clear her vision and Regan leapfrogs the second tail shot to catch her in a rear neck vice! NO! ELBOW TO THE FACE AND REGAN GOES DOWN HARD, SCREAMING!
REGAN VOORHEES
SONIC IS BOTTOM! JUST SAY IT!
Kalinda's cleared her vision, and she turns around but Regan's nowhere in sight. She launches off the top rope, nailing an axehandle to Kalinda's back and as she stumbles forward, Regan catches her in a hammerlock, clearly looking for The Abattoir – KALINDA ROLLS THROUGH AND RIGHT INTO QUEEN'S DOMINION! SHE'S GOT THE SCISSORS AND THE TAIL INVOLVED AND IT'S RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RING, LEAVING REGAN NO CHOICE BUT TO TAP OUT OR RUN THE RISK OF PERMANENT INJURY!
WINNER (VIA SUBMISSION): KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. ELDORADO CASINO — BACKSTAGE
??
Summer Page...you poor, unfortunate soul.
Former Silver State Champion SAMANTHA TOLSON sits inside her locker room, wearing a specialized red singlet with no real trim, and a pair of black wrestling boots with no knee pads.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
I could sit here and wax poetic about blood being the very force of life, and that how spilling it just feels wrong and pointless. I could discuss what got us to this point, where I feel the need to make you suffer until the crimson mask you'll soon wear was one of your own making. Hell, I could potentially even tell you that I'm sorry in advance but that there was no other way.
Samantha snorts derisively, a smirk playing at one corner of her mouth.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
But that would make me a liar. There's a thousand other ways this can be done. I am not a damn bit sorry; you know how we got here, and this sure as hell isn't pointless. No bitch, this shit is extremely fucking personal. And after tonight, you'll be shutting your uneducated, unoriginal, dime-a-dozen mouth for the rest of your career about me.
She shakes her head.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
You think you're a queen. Deserving of being handed shit on silver platters everywhere you walk...and you call ME deluded and entitled? I'm not the one putting management on One Wrestling Movement on blast because they aren't handing my partner and I a set of tag belts. I'm not the one out there with a singles belt that can't be traced, seemingly, to an actual company with actual shows.
Samantha takes a deep breath, inhaling through her nose almost as if snorting.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Bitch I've scratched and clawed and fought and sometimes even bled for every single FUCKING thing I've ever gotten in this business. Every big match, every title shot, and title reign I have fucking earned. Five individual World Championships. One World Tag Team Championship. One World Six-Man Championship. I've lost count of how many times I've held three belts simultaneously. Three different times it's been four straps. Twice it's been five. I have a record of excellence and accomplishment it will take a soft-handed, weak-willed gimme girl like you three careers to even think about touching, and believe me when I say I'm FAR from done.
Staring forward intensely, she lets that statement sink in for a moment.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
I may not be a nice person. I've sure as hell rankled some folks over the last six-plus years. I've burned some bridges both personally and professionally. I will absolutely own every single bit of that. But you?
Samantha snorts again, the proverbial dander rising with every word.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
You're nothing more than a fucking cornucopia of mean girl tropes, a little girl trying to play Barbie in a world full of adults. Let's face it, even your Twitter account gives you away. Spoiled Queen One. Someone who expects everything and anything they want handed to them on demand. Someone who doesn't want to earn a goddamn thing because she might stub a toe or break a nail. What's wrong, princess? Daddy didn't get you the pony when you were six? Or was it the Maserati at sixteen?
A sneer creeps across Samantha's face, sinister and cold.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Did Mosh not give you that good monkey lovin' often enough? Did someone break your fwagull widdle haart?
The sarcasm is practically oozing.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Truth is, Summer, I really don't give a rat's ass. I don't care Mosh couldn't lay pipe, I don't care about your shattered heart, and your Daddy issues don't faze me. You've come at me with six years' worth of bullshit that's long been left in the past. Even your 1WM tag partner? Bianca Davis? Even her stupid, vapid ass doesn't pull shit like that. That should tell you something. What should also tell you something is that in ten matches against her, I've won eight. That's right, you insipid trollop. I'm eight and two against someone you hold in high regard.
She lets out a mocking laugh.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
But I digress. This isn't about that bitch. This is about you, bitch. In a few moments, out there in that ring, you're going to understand four things. One, as I warned you months ago, don't piss off a redneck. Two, from the moment you interfered in that match with Mosh, you've bitten off far more than you can chew. Three, I'm flat out better than you in every single facet of this sport. And four? Four is that after tonight, you'll never be the same again. Because the point of all this is to knock you off that high horse you've put yourself on and in the most embarrassing way possible. By losing a match with all that pure perfection you like to hashtag about being ruined. By scarring you for life. By making sure that from now on, when you look at that face and that bottled blonde hair in the mirror, you get reminded of tonight and how I made you bleed like Auntie Flo was in town.
Nodding, she continues.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
I'm not afraid to bleed, Summer. Not afraid of the sight of my own blood. Done it plenty of times before, and I'm sure I will again at some point. But you? This is your nightmare scenario. This is your bad dream that wakes you up in a cold sweat. Because tonight, you're going to be exposed as the ordinary, talentless lump of flesh you are. I told you a while back that the only thing you're entitled to is an ass kicking. Well guess what, bitch? Tonight, I collect my debt from you in blood. Make sure Marisol brings a towel or two. This is gonna get fucking messy.
Samantha sneers once more as the camera shot fades to black.
CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR: FIRST BLOOD MATCH
SAMANTHA TOLSON vs SUMMER PAGE
It's a contrast of styles as the bell sounds to begin the contest and Summer looks a bit wary about locking up with her as Samantha Tolson advances. She feints left, avoiding Tolson's attempt to grapple before locking in a hammerlock in the process. Samantha tries a back elbow, which Summer predictably ducks. The momentum spins Samantha around, and Summer grabs her – spike DDT and Tolson takes a few seconds longer to get up than usual after the impact. Summer turns to the booing crowd, gloating and she eats a hard kick to the back for the showboating. She hoists Summer up into a fireman's carry and slams her down, stomping on her back before Summer rolls out to the floor to avoid more damage. Tolson leans on the ropes for a moment and then springs over them, catching Summer with a lariat as she's rising that completely flattens her on the floor. Tolson's up first and she grabs Summer by the hair, hauling her up and tossing her at the barrier. Firmly in control now, Tolson charges in, connecting with a knee strike that snaps Summer's head back before forcing her to her knees and locking in an inverted front facelock right there on the floor – NO WAY! SUMMER BACKFLIPS OUT OF IT AND DIVES BACK INTO THE RING TO AVOID A COUNT OUT!
Tolson looks livid as she follows her in, narrowly dodging a Total Knockout (superkick) and she hooks that leg and slams Summer back down. Summer nips right back up to her feet, slapping Samantha across the face before shoving her at the ropes. She drops her with a handspring back elbow off the rebound, clearly showboating again. Undaunted, Tolson's back up in an instant but she's staggered back into the ropes by a shitty sucker punch. Summer lays in the strikes, clearly looking to soften Tolson up and Neil Rana gets in the middle of it, forcing her to break from the closed fist strikes. Summer rolls her eyes theatrically, but she backs off only for Tolson to go for a double-leg takedown from the corner, sending Summer down and applying a rear chinlock like she wants to break her head clean off her neck! A rope break gets Summer a reprieve but she's right back up into more assault with some machine gun knife-edge chops in the corner before Tolson starts in with the speedy kicks, leaving her sagging. Samantha backs off and charges in, looking for a knee lift to the face but Summer dives and Tolson gets unforgiving steel instead! The crowd lets out a collective groan as Sam crumbles to the canvas, right into a vicious mudhole stomping. She's turtled up, protecting her face and then Summer reaches into her top. For a moment, it looks like she's adjusting her bra but then she pulls something out and lifts her knuckles up to her lips.
The crowd absolutely erupts as someone hops the barrier from the ringside seats and slides into the ring – HOLY SHIT, IT'S HAYLEY DARK AND SHE SPEARS SUMMER ALMOST RIGHT OUT OF HER BOOTS! She rolls out of the ring, grabbing the roll of quarters that Summer had in her fist and she spikes it off the floor, coins flying everywhere! Both competitors hit their feet, Summer looking a little woozy from that impact as Samantha goes for a reverse neck breaker – BACKDROP REVERSAL AND SUMMER BAILS OUT TO THE FLOOR! She's cradling the back of her neck, mouthing off to Hayley Dark but she backs off as Doorstop and Arabella join their leader, the trio lurking ringside as impromptu lumberjacks. Summer flips her hair dismissively and turns back just in time to take a baseball slide to the face! She's sent crashing into the barricade and Tolson quickly rolls out of the ring to help her up, warily eyeing The Belonging although they make no move to intervene. Summer's clearly dazed, hair covering her face as Tolson rolls her back into the ring. The moment she flips over though, Neil Rana is there, waving it off because there's blood flowing from a cut above Summer's eyebrow! Samantha Tolson has won the match and one can only hope this is the end of the bad blood between the two women.
WINNER (VIA FIRST BLOOD DRAWN): SAMANTHA TOLSON
Summer Page...you poor, unfortunate soul.
Former Silver State Champion SAMANTHA TOLSON sits inside her locker room, wearing a specialized red singlet with no real trim, and a pair of black wrestling boots with no knee pads.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
I could sit here and wax poetic about blood being the very force of life, and that how spilling it just feels wrong and pointless. I could discuss what got us to this point, where I feel the need to make you suffer until the crimson mask you'll soon wear was one of your own making. Hell, I could potentially even tell you that I'm sorry in advance but that there was no other way.
Samantha snorts derisively, a smirk playing at one corner of her mouth.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
But that would make me a liar. There's a thousand other ways this can be done. I am not a damn bit sorry; you know how we got here, and this sure as hell isn't pointless. No bitch, this shit is extremely fucking personal. And after tonight, you'll be shutting your uneducated, unoriginal, dime-a-dozen mouth for the rest of your career about me.
She shakes her head.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
You think you're a queen. Deserving of being handed shit on silver platters everywhere you walk...and you call ME deluded and entitled? I'm not the one putting management on One Wrestling Movement on blast because they aren't handing my partner and I a set of tag belts. I'm not the one out there with a singles belt that can't be traced, seemingly, to an actual company with actual shows.
Samantha takes a deep breath, inhaling through her nose almost as if snorting.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Bitch I've scratched and clawed and fought and sometimes even bled for every single FUCKING thing I've ever gotten in this business. Every big match, every title shot, and title reign I have fucking earned. Five individual World Championships. One World Tag Team Championship. One World Six-Man Championship. I've lost count of how many times I've held three belts simultaneously. Three different times it's been four straps. Twice it's been five. I have a record of excellence and accomplishment it will take a soft-handed, weak-willed gimme girl like you three careers to even think about touching, and believe me when I say I'm FAR from done.
Staring forward intensely, she lets that statement sink in for a moment.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
I may not be a nice person. I've sure as hell rankled some folks over the last six-plus years. I've burned some bridges both personally and professionally. I will absolutely own every single bit of that. But you?
Samantha snorts again, the proverbial dander rising with every word.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
You're nothing more than a fucking cornucopia of mean girl tropes, a little girl trying to play Barbie in a world full of adults. Let's face it, even your Twitter account gives you away. Spoiled Queen One. Someone who expects everything and anything they want handed to them on demand. Someone who doesn't want to earn a goddamn thing because she might stub a toe or break a nail. What's wrong, princess? Daddy didn't get you the pony when you were six? Or was it the Maserati at sixteen?
A sneer creeps across Samantha's face, sinister and cold.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Did Mosh not give you that good monkey lovin' often enough? Did someone break your fwagull widdle haart?
The sarcasm is practically oozing.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Truth is, Summer, I really don't give a rat's ass. I don't care Mosh couldn't lay pipe, I don't care about your shattered heart, and your Daddy issues don't faze me. You've come at me with six years' worth of bullshit that's long been left in the past. Even your 1WM tag partner? Bianca Davis? Even her stupid, vapid ass doesn't pull shit like that. That should tell you something. What should also tell you something is that in ten matches against her, I've won eight. That's right, you insipid trollop. I'm eight and two against someone you hold in high regard.
She lets out a mocking laugh.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
But I digress. This isn't about that bitch. This is about you, bitch. In a few moments, out there in that ring, you're going to understand four things. One, as I warned you months ago, don't piss off a redneck. Two, from the moment you interfered in that match with Mosh, you've bitten off far more than you can chew. Three, I'm flat out better than you in every single facet of this sport. And four? Four is that after tonight, you'll never be the same again. Because the point of all this is to knock you off that high horse you've put yourself on and in the most embarrassing way possible. By losing a match with all that pure perfection you like to hashtag about being ruined. By scarring you for life. By making sure that from now on, when you look at that face and that bottled blonde hair in the mirror, you get reminded of tonight and how I made you bleed like Auntie Flo was in town.
Nodding, she continues.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
I'm not afraid to bleed, Summer. Not afraid of the sight of my own blood. Done it plenty of times before, and I'm sure I will again at some point. But you? This is your nightmare scenario. This is your bad dream that wakes you up in a cold sweat. Because tonight, you're going to be exposed as the ordinary, talentless lump of flesh you are. I told you a while back that the only thing you're entitled to is an ass kicking. Well guess what, bitch? Tonight, I collect my debt from you in blood. Make sure Marisol brings a towel or two. This is gonna get fucking messy.
Samantha sneers once more as the camera shot fades to black.
CUT TO:
INT. SILVER STATE BALLROOM — THE RING
CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR: FIRST BLOOD MATCH
SAMANTHA TOLSON vs SUMMER PAGE
It's a contrast of styles as the bell sounds to begin the contest and Summer looks a bit wary about locking up with her as Samantha Tolson advances. She feints left, avoiding Tolson's attempt to grapple before locking in a hammerlock in the process. Samantha tries a back elbow, which Summer predictably ducks. The momentum spins Samantha around, and Summer grabs her – spike DDT and Tolson takes a few seconds longer to get up than usual after the impact. Summer turns to the booing crowd, gloating and she eats a hard kick to the back for the showboating. She hoists Summer up into a fireman's carry and slams her down, stomping on her back before Summer rolls out to the floor to avoid more damage. Tolson leans on the ropes for a moment and then springs over them, catching Summer with a lariat as she's rising that completely flattens her on the floor. Tolson's up first and she grabs Summer by the hair, hauling her up and tossing her at the barrier. Firmly in control now, Tolson charges in, connecting with a knee strike that snaps Summer's head back before forcing her to her knees and locking in an inverted front facelock right there on the floor – NO WAY! SUMMER BACKFLIPS OUT OF IT AND DIVES BACK INTO THE RING TO AVOID A COUNT OUT!
Tolson looks livid as she follows her in, narrowly dodging a Total Knockout (superkick) and she hooks that leg and slams Summer back down. Summer nips right back up to her feet, slapping Samantha across the face before shoving her at the ropes. She drops her with a handspring back elbow off the rebound, clearly showboating again. Undaunted, Tolson's back up in an instant but she's staggered back into the ropes by a shitty sucker punch. Summer lays in the strikes, clearly looking to soften Tolson up and Neil Rana gets in the middle of it, forcing her to break from the closed fist strikes. Summer rolls her eyes theatrically, but she backs off only for Tolson to go for a double-leg takedown from the corner, sending Summer down and applying a rear chinlock like she wants to break her head clean off her neck! A rope break gets Summer a reprieve but she's right back up into more assault with some machine gun knife-edge chops in the corner before Tolson starts in with the speedy kicks, leaving her sagging. Samantha backs off and charges in, looking for a knee lift to the face but Summer dives and Tolson gets unforgiving steel instead! The crowd lets out a collective groan as Sam crumbles to the canvas, right into a vicious mudhole stomping. She's turtled up, protecting her face and then Summer reaches into her top. For a moment, it looks like she's adjusting her bra but then she pulls something out and lifts her knuckles up to her lips.
The crowd absolutely erupts as someone hops the barrier from the ringside seats and slides into the ring – HOLY SHIT, IT'S HAYLEY DARK AND SHE SPEARS SUMMER ALMOST RIGHT OUT OF HER BOOTS! She rolls out of the ring, grabbing the roll of quarters that Summer had in her fist and she spikes it off the floor, coins flying everywhere! Both competitors hit their feet, Summer looking a little woozy from that impact as Samantha goes for a reverse neck breaker – BACKDROP REVERSAL AND SUMMER BAILS OUT TO THE FLOOR! She's cradling the back of her neck, mouthing off to Hayley Dark but she backs off as Doorstop and Arabella join their leader, the trio lurking ringside as impromptu lumberjacks. Summer flips her hair dismissively and turns back just in time to take a baseball slide to the face! She's sent crashing into the barricade and Tolson quickly rolls out of the ring to help her up, warily eyeing The Belonging although they make no move to intervene. Summer's clearly dazed, hair covering her face as Tolson rolls her back into the ring. The moment she flips over though, Neil Rana is there, waving it off because there's blood flowing from a cut above Summer's eyebrow! Samantha Tolson has won the match and one can only hope this is the end of the bad blood between the two women.
WINNER (VIA FIRST BLOOD DRAWN): SAMANTHA TOLSON
CUT TO:
INT. ELDORADO CASINO — BACKSTAGE.
We head backstage where we have a large American flag hanging over the back wall of the interview area. We see the Silver State Champion, GASTON GILLET, along with ARIANNA MANNING; both of whom are wearing black armbands.
ARIANNA MANNING
Good evening. Gaston & myself are usually in the mood for all kinds of wacky antics, but today... today is a time for reflection. After all, today marks the twenty-year anniversary of one of the darkest and most tragic days in American history, the terrorist attack on the Twin Towers in New York City. So many people were taken way too soon on that day. But while it is important that we reflect and remember, those who would do such reprehensible acts do not deserve their name spoken. But on that day, from the ashes of that tower... something was born, like a phoenix rising up, the great red, white and blue Americana spirit that burns within everyone of us, as we as a nation stood up and said "WE ARE NOT AFRAID"!
The crowd cheers at Arianna’s rallying cry.
ARIANNA MANNING
However bad things may seem in the world, whatever politicians and leaders may not seem to stem the tide... the true, free American people will always stand firm with justice and freedom on our side, ready to fight terror and insurgency wherever it rears its ugly head. But we must remain vigilant. Twenty years have passed, but the fight is far, far from over. So stand firm, people of America, and please do donate to all reputable armed force charities. They love and appreciate your support.
She smiles.
ARIANNA MANNING
Tonight, however, my wonderful big man mountain right here will not be fighting terror, or insurgency, and there is not an ugly head in sight. Gaston defends the prestigious Silver State Championship tonight against the dangerous and very talented Coda. Yet another great match on Gaston Gillet’s Silver State Americana tour!
She grins, before handing the microphone to Gaston.
She puts a hand on Gaston’s shoulder and the well-built Silver State Champion with his championship across his shoulder as he steps up. There's something gleaming in his eyes which looks like tears.
GASTON GILLET
CODA, I could not be prouder about facing someone like you on a night like this, because on this historical day I don’t think there is anyone on this roster who embodies the never give, fighting spirit that the world needs. Not all is right in our time but tonight especially these great fans right here at the SIlver State Ballroom deserve something that not only commemorates how far the world has come but that promotes them to a brighter, better future ahead. You are not the only worthy competitor on this roster of course, there is plenty of others but from what I’ve seen of you elsewhere and what I’ve heard, I know that you have just what it takes to push me even further than my past opponents and I know you have the fire, fury and ferocity it takes to become a champion there is no doubt of that but do not expect it necessarily happen tonight, here in front of these fine people. I’ve worked hard to be the Silver State Champion, I’ve had opponents mock me, I’ve had opponents praise me. I’ve had opponents respect me and I’ve had opponents ridicule me. You seem not a fan of banter and talk but prefer to let your actions do the talking in the ring and I appreciate that. Because tonight of all nights there is only so much we can say that matters, there is a limit to how much all the words in the world can accomplish..no tonight Coda, my friend actions shall speak louder than words and once that bell rings. You and me, we shall speak loud enough for the whole world to hear and make sure that another twenty years from now this match from Reno, Nevada will still be worth a watch!
He gives a somewhat cheesy thumbs up, which causes Ari to shake her head and laugh. She leads him away before he says something goofy and the feed cuts away to an ad for UPRISING'S latest affiliate: ONE WRESTLE MOVEMENT!
LIVE from Baxter Arena in Omaha, Nebraska on September 15TH!
STREAMING ONLY ON SPLATTV!
_____________________________________________
ARIANNA MANNING
Good evening. Gaston & myself are usually in the mood for all kinds of wacky antics, but today... today is a time for reflection. After all, today marks the twenty-year anniversary of one of the darkest and most tragic days in American history, the terrorist attack on the Twin Towers in New York City. So many people were taken way too soon on that day. But while it is important that we reflect and remember, those who would do such reprehensible acts do not deserve their name spoken. But on that day, from the ashes of that tower... something was born, like a phoenix rising up, the great red, white and blue Americana spirit that burns within everyone of us, as we as a nation stood up and said "WE ARE NOT AFRAID"!
The crowd cheers at Arianna’s rallying cry.
ARIANNA MANNING
However bad things may seem in the world, whatever politicians and leaders may not seem to stem the tide... the true, free American people will always stand firm with justice and freedom on our side, ready to fight terror and insurgency wherever it rears its ugly head. But we must remain vigilant. Twenty years have passed, but the fight is far, far from over. So stand firm, people of America, and please do donate to all reputable armed force charities. They love and appreciate your support.
She smiles.
ARIANNA MANNING
Tonight, however, my wonderful big man mountain right here will not be fighting terror, or insurgency, and there is not an ugly head in sight. Gaston defends the prestigious Silver State Championship tonight against the dangerous and very talented Coda. Yet another great match on Gaston Gillet’s Silver State Americana tour!
She grins, before handing the microphone to Gaston.
She puts a hand on Gaston’s shoulder and the well-built Silver State Champion with his championship across his shoulder as he steps up. There's something gleaming in his eyes which looks like tears.
GASTON GILLET
CODA, I could not be prouder about facing someone like you on a night like this, because on this historical day I don’t think there is anyone on this roster who embodies the never give, fighting spirit that the world needs. Not all is right in our time but tonight especially these great fans right here at the SIlver State Ballroom deserve something that not only commemorates how far the world has come but that promotes them to a brighter, better future ahead. You are not the only worthy competitor on this roster of course, there is plenty of others but from what I’ve seen of you elsewhere and what I’ve heard, I know that you have just what it takes to push me even further than my past opponents and I know you have the fire, fury and ferocity it takes to become a champion there is no doubt of that but do not expect it necessarily happen tonight, here in front of these fine people. I’ve worked hard to be the Silver State Champion, I’ve had opponents mock me, I’ve had opponents praise me. I’ve had opponents respect me and I’ve had opponents ridicule me. You seem not a fan of banter and talk but prefer to let your actions do the talking in the ring and I appreciate that. Because tonight of all nights there is only so much we can say that matters, there is a limit to how much all the words in the world can accomplish..no tonight Coda, my friend actions shall speak louder than words and once that bell rings. You and me, we shall speak loud enough for the whole world to hear and make sure that another twenty years from now this match from Reno, Nevada will still be worth a watch!
He gives a somewhat cheesy thumbs up, which causes Ari to shake her head and laugh. She leads him away before he says something goofy and the feed cuts away to an ad for UPRISING'S latest affiliate: ONE WRESTLE MOVEMENT!
LIVE from Baxter Arena in Omaha, Nebraska on September 15TH!
STREAMING ONLY ON SPLATTV!
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. SILVER STATE BALLROOM — THE RING.
SILVER STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
GASTON GILLET (c) vs CODA
The bell rings and Coda extends a hand to Gaston for a handshake, getting a huge pop from the crowd as they shake hands in the center of the ring. Gaston smiles and takes a step back, gesturing for Coda to make the first move – she does, going right into a lockup. Gaston sends her off to the ropes and Coda hooks and springs over to the outside. She hops up on the top rope and launches herself at Gaston who moves to catch her and falls right into the trap, taking a yakuza kick to the face. He staggers back and Coda takes him over with a spinning side slam – no way! Gaston twists and turns it into an atomic drop and the crowd is loving this technical display! La Magistral pin for Coda!
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO! GASTON KICKS OUT WITH AUTHORITY BUT CODA HOOKS HIS ARM THE MOMENT THEY'RE RESET! Japanese arm drag takedown followed by arm-trap punch and she's back in control of this thing! NO! GASTON ROLLS ASIDE AND WHEN SHE LAUNCHES FOR A TELEGRAPHED KNEE STRIKE, HE CATCHES HER MID-AIR! REALIGN YOUR SPINE (Double Knee Backbreaker) AND CODA IS DOWN, HOLDING HER BACK IN PAIN! GASTON HOOKS THE LEG!
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO! CODA KICKS OUT!
Gaston releases the hold, and springs off the ropes, looking for a clothesline as Coda stumbles back to her feet. She scouts it and dodges, taking Gaston down with a flawless shining wizard. She waits for Gaston to get up, looking for a bulldog, but Gaston catches her neck on the way, and manages a desperate DDT that barely connects. Coda is quick to her feet, and Gaston quickly grabs Coda’s arms and flips the Pint-Sized Kaiju around, scooping her up and plastering her on the canvas with a back snapmare. Coda remains still as Gaston reaches down, looking to hook her into the cobra clutch – REVERSAL AND THE CROWD CAN'T BELIEVE IF! SHE ROLLS FOR A DUCK UNDER LEG TRIP AND GASTON IS DOWN! SHE GOES FOR THE TRIANGLE CHOKE BUT HE GETS HOLD OF THE BOTTOM ROPE AND REF STEF WAVES IT OFF, FORCING THE BREAK. Coda breaks the hold, helping Gaston up and they circle each other warily before locking up again. Coda ducks under the Red, White & Bruised chops and nails the Sonata knee! Gaston staggers back and Coda goes for a throat thrust – NO! GASTON CATCHES HER ARM AND RAGDOLLS HER, GOING FROM THE BEAR NECESSETIES (BEAR HUG) INTO A TOSS INTO THE CORNER. HE FOLLOWS HER IN, SPLASHING HER AND DRIVING THE WIND FROM HER LUNGS! OH NO! WINNING IN AMERICA (cobra clutch slam) IS LOCKED IN AND HE SLAMS HER DOWN!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL) AND STILL SILVER STATE CHAMPION: GASTON GILLET
CUT TO:
EXT. SOMEWHERE IN RENO.
FOCUS ON: The words RECORDED EARLIER TODAY flashing across the bottom of the screen.
We open up to a view of LUTHER and ESME THUNDER, sitting outside a café in Reno. Luther, as per the recent norm, is dressed down in casual streetwear, as is Esme, wearing a white wife beater. Mrs. Thunder glares at the camera.
ESME THUNDER
Hello, everyone. Luther & I are taking the time to pre-record a little message for tonight’s show because... well, if we were to do it in the arena, LEGION cannot be trusted not to do some petty and mindless act of barbarism, considering his inflammatory and threatening comments on social media these past two weeks. And to be honest... you people in the crowd do not DESERVE to listen to the best damn promo in the game in person anyway, not after you all strove to humiliate and humble a man who selflessly gave you everything he had. No, Reno, you have lost that privilege with your actions. Because we all know, had LEGION wrapped a chair around the head of my husband last show, instead of the other way around, you’d have been cheering him from the rafters, sucking and leeching off his every word and movement like the disgusting little parasites you are. You do not deserve a man like Luther Thunder. You are not worthy of a man like Luther Thunder. I would question under normal circumstances whether LEGION is, either, but as he happens to have "borrowed" one of Luther’s prized possessions. It is a necessary evil that we must stoop down to the lowest common denominator. However, after my husband decimates the LEGION, that will no longer be the case. And yes, for the two of you smart enough to pick up on it, that was a Roman History joke that just sailed over everyone’s heads right now.
Luther had stood there next to her glaring at the camera all the while she spoke before he finally spoke up.
LUTHER THUNDER
So our illustrious champion got mad, mad enough to throw his weight around and bark at Larry Gowan and Brad Jackson telling them what to do. This from the same "hero" of yours who openly claimed how he doesn’t book matches or make matches yet Lawrence and Bradley eat by his hand, why? Because he has that UPRISING Championship? Because you, the unwashed, mouth-breathing, ignorant masses hoot and holler at him like this was all just an old FOX Network sitcom? Who knows. Look "champ"...I didn’t ask you to go out there on your own big mad with your emotions and threats. I didn’t call you out. You kept yelling, you kept crying wolf and when the wolf showed up, the little piggy got his head busted open.
Esme chuckles as Luther smirks at the camera.
LUTHER THUNDER
I know, I know. I just busted open a cut someone else caused you. I didn’t really do that much harm to you. Yeah sounded real brave coming from your hospital bed, right tough guy? So let’s cut to the chase, explain something so that you and your beer-chugging collective of cronies in the crowd can understand. You wanted to act like a fighting champion, yet you claim and cling on the "fact" that you offered me first dibs against you and I didn’t take it. Right? Well to me that does not sound like a fighting champion at all. It doesn’t even sound like a respectful champion. You wanted to hand me a shot and would have no doubt expected me to bow down at your feet, thanking you for your act of kindness and mercy. Oh no, young master LEGION just because the crowd and the office seems to eat from your hand does not mean everyone will. You claimed to be a fighting champion, you wanted to show how you would do things so much better? Well I came to give you a fight, I didn’t come to beg, plead or demand a thing. I am giving you just what you were begging for, if anything YOU are the one who should be thanking ME. Look at all those big names who have left UPRISING, worthy challengers, great contenders..one after another, some in droves. I haven’t gone anywhere. I was here on the inaugural REVOLUTION, before so many of those who now fill the roster had even joined. I was here, I was the first person Bradley Jackson reached out to bring in here and as far as your little gossip mongering, your little rumor mill goes. You can tell the brave keyboard warriors, the so-called experts and journalists that Luther Thunder is not going to be fired from UPRISING. I am also not going to be driven out of this place by anyone either, because if I were to be fired that would end up costing this place a whole lot more than quite frankly they could afford to lose.
Esme leans up to Luther who smiles at her then glances back at the camera.
LUTHER THUNDER
So at Revolution 17. September 11th, 2021, you get what you wanted LEGION. You get just what you huffed and puffed for, you get precisely what you stomped your foot for. You get to seek vengeance of your ever so precious motive of transportation, your vehicle of choice. You can leave that pretend “gangster” talk about rats, snitches, deserts and ditches to someone who believes in it. Had I wanted you or that hunk of junk you drive in any real trouble. You would not be making such threats from the hospital nor would you be in the Silver State Ballroom defending that championship of yours against someone who is actually worth it. I won it once before and I did not lose it to you LEGION, the sorry son of a bitch who pinned me moved on to greener pastures to other championships, but you know what son? If I got that championship once before, I can get again, and again, and again. As many damn times as I please and there is not a thing you, your raving band of misfits in the stands or those beating on their keyboards at their mothers basements can do about it. Fair warning though, WHEN I get that championship in my possession, I won’t be as nice and amicable as I was on my inaugural run, I won’t be giving these fans what they want, because I choose not to pander to them. They want to side along with someone like you who looks and acts like a common thug and a hooligan, over me? After all I’ve done for them after all they could have had...
He shakes his head slowly.
LUTHER THUNDER
...sad state of affairs, isn’t it? Almost as sad as the fact that before you decided to turn into a bobblehead brute for them, you actually gave me an ounce of respect or acted like you did at least. Remember that remark where you criticized not myself as a champion but the way Bradley Jackson booked me as a champion? What a shame you didn’t keep that respect my boy, because who knows how different this situation could have been oh and Bradley? My old pal, my friend, my brother..speaking of sad state of affairs It saddens me that the mighty Dark Horse has become a gelding in his old days, because I remember a time when no one would ever tell Brad Jackson what to do, not without getting their skull caved in for it at least and now you are, getting better. Get well soon Bradley, take all the time you’ll need but keep your eyes open, watch closely because if Son of Spiral chooses to scamper on out of here, you may have to come back to your favourite UPRISING Champion in this company’s history..oh and Lawrence, congratulations on being the man in charge. From the bottom of my heart. I’ll be seeing you all tonight and remember the revolution WILL BE TELEVISED.
With that we cut to static.
MAIN EVENT: UPRISING CHAMPIONSHIP
LEGION (c) vs LUTHER THUNDER
Luther and Legion stand across from one another. The champion’s music fades out as the two men get ready. Luther has a hold of the top rope, using it to stretch while Legion takes off his leather jacket and tosses it over the ropes.
Referee Stef Delano signals the bell and HERE WE GO! Both men move to the middle and start circling one another. Their size discrepancy is immediately noticeable, with Luther having 3 inches and 35 pounds on the champ. Luther has his hands up, looking to grab ahold of the champion but Legion is a little smaller, a little quicker. The Dutch Destroyer goes to wrap his arms around his opponent but the champ SMACKS Luther across the face! The crowd groans as Luther stares at the champ, eyes wide and full of anger.
The challenger grabs Legion by the neck and turns, throwing him into the corner. He then cocks his arm back and throws a heavy punch. Legion ducks and moves behind Luther, grabbing him around the waist. Legion lifts the big man off his feet and drops him on his neck with a Belly to Back suplex. Legion goes for the pin but before Delano can count to one, Luther presses him into the air and throws him to the side in an impressive show of strength!
Both men get to their feet. Legion jumps on Luther who’s just a little behind. He’s throwing forearms into his face, softening him up, before turning and running for the ropes. As Legion comes rumbling back with his arm out for a clothesline Luther picks him up and delivers INTO THE STYX (Spinning Spinebuster)!!! Luther stays on top of him and yanks a leg up for the pin.
ONE!
TWO!
NO! Legion kicks out! Luther scolds the ref for not counting faster as he pulls Legion to his feet by the hair. He then turns and throws the champion through the ropes and out onto the floor. Luther climbs out of the ring and grabs Legion, throwing him into the barricade. He lands several hard punches while the referee begins her count, softening the champ up, before grabbing his neck and hooking his arm. He then lifts Legion up into the air before dropping backward, landing FALL FROM GRACE (Vertical Suplex) on the outside! Luther pops up immediately and roars with his arms in the air.
Before Delano can reach ten, Luther has Legion up and rolls him under the bottom rope. The Dutch Destroyer quickly slides in after him and covers him for the pin.
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
The ref looks up in time to see Legion’s leg on a nearby bottom rope. Luther shows his frustration as he slams a hand onto the canvas. He stands up and begins to chew out Delano. Behind her Legion is pulling himself up by the ropes while holding his back. Luther sees it and shoves the referee aside.
Legion pushes off the ropes and runs at Luther. He jumps into the air to deliver a flying knee but Luther catches him! He then runs the champion into the corner. The champ slumps from the impact and Luther sends a boot into his midsection. And another. And another! Legion is slipping down to the canvas. The Dutch Destroyer grabs the ropes and shoves his boot into the champ’s throat. The ref starts to count as Legion yells from the pain. Luther breaks on four and gets pushed back a few feet while Delano checks on Legion.
Luther raises his hands as the crowd boos. The referee steps aside as Legion gets to his feet. Luther sees his moment. He runs straight at Legion and GETS A BOOT TO THE FACE! Luther stumbles backward. Legion runs out of the corner and nails Luther with repeated hard elbows! Luther is still on his feet but he’s been backed up into the ropes. Legion turns and runs across the ring, bounces off the ropes and then barrels straight for Luther. He throws his arm out and clotheslines Luther over the top rope! Both men flip end over end and land hard on the outside mat!
Both men are hurt but Luther took the worst of it! The crowd is chanting LEGION as the champ gets to his feet. He walks over to the steel steps and picks up the top section. He turns and runs, driving it right at Luther’s head as he gets up but LUTHER KICKS THE STEPS right into Legion’s face! The champion is down as the steps thunk on the floor.
Luther walks over, grabs Legion by the hair, yanks him up, and then lifts him over his right shoulder. Luther turns and runs straight for the nearest corner post but LEGION PUSHES OFF! He lands behind the challenger and pushes him face first into the steel pole!
Legion jumps up on the apron and moves around the corner. Luther is getting up on the outside, holding his face where it hit the post. Legion runs down the apron, jumps, and nails Luther with the RANDOM ACTIVE OF VIOLENCE (Claymore Kick)!!!! Luther goes down hard! Legion looks up and around with a mad grin on his face as the crowd chants his name.
Legion rolls in the ring briefly to reset the count then rolls back out. He kicks Luther straight in the head three times. He could roll the Dutch Destroyer in the ring and go for the pin but instead he turns away and heads around the ring to where the timekeeper sits. He takes the man’s chair, folds it up and then walks back for Luther. This isn't about wins and losses. This is about punishing Luther for what he did!
The referee is warning him from inside the ring. If Legion uses the chair, he’s DQ’d BUT he retains! He finds Luther getting to his feet. He lifts the chair and swings it BUT LUTHER PUNCHES THE CHAIR RIGHT BACK INTO THE CHAMP’S FACE! Chair goes flying as Legion crumbles to the floor! Luther grabs the champ, lifts him and throws him into the ring.
Luther climbs inside and walks over to the champ, who’s rolled all the way to the center of the squared circle. Legion is knocked out! WRATH OF GOD (Garvin Stomps)! Luther stomps Legion’s shoulder, then his head, then his other shoulder, his ribs, and hip. Down his right leg, he stomps on the knee over and over as the champ wakes up and starts howling in pain while reaching down to grab his knee but Luther keeps stomping!
Legion uses his other leg to kick up, landing his foot across Luther’s face! The Dutch Destroyer backs up while grabbing his head, giving Legion time to get up and hobble back into a corner. He shakes his leg out and puts some weight on it. Clearly it’s hurting the champ as he gingerly moves forward.
Luther is up and scowling as he meets the champ. Both men are tired and covered in sweat. Legion throws a crooked arm lariat at Luther’s face! The big man buckles but doesn't fall! Legion looks around the ballroom before throwing another! Again Luther is rocked but he stays on his feet. Legion then turns and runs for the ropes, bounces off, and charges for another but LUTHER GRABS HIM IN A BEAR HUG!
The crowd cheers the champ on as the breath is squeezed out of him by the Dutch Destroyer! Delano is right there, asking if Legion wants her to call it but he shakes his head no. After several grueling seconds, it appears the champ is starting to fade. He goes limp! The ref checks his arm. She raises it and it drops! She raises it again and it falls like dead weight! She lifts it one more time. This could be it! She let’s go…
LEGION HOLDS UP HIS ARM! Luther growls as he tries to crush the champ! Legion looks at Luther with mad eyes before he bends his head forward and BITES LUTHER’S EAR! The challenger yells and is forced to release the hold! The ref was on the other side and didn’t see it! Legion staggers back as he recovers with a little bit of red on his lips.
Luther grabs his ear and sees his own blood. The rage builds in his eyes until they nearly turn red! The Dutch Destroyer runs straight at Legion, but the champ moves! Luther goes chest first into the turnbuckle and stumbles backward RIGHT INTO THE CHAMP’S ARMS! Legion HOISTS the big man up across his shoulders and walks him to the center of the ring. This could be it! VULGAR DISPLAY OF POWER… NO! Luther slips down behind the champ! Legion turns. THUNDERSTRUCK (SUPERKICK) BY LUTHER… NO! It misses as Legion ducks underneath! He bends down and lifts Luther up on his shoulders in the electric chair position, an impressive show of strength by the champ! Is he going to hit his old finisher, the DOOM THAT CAME TO RENO?!
Luther fights it! He’s raining down punches onto Legion’s vulnerable skull until the strikes take their toll and the champ’s injured leg gives out! Both men fall to the side but Luther immediately bounces up. He draws his thumb across his throat before bending down to grab the champ by the head BUT LEGION COUNTERS! He wraps his legs around Luther’s neck and traps his arm! The crowd erupts! GO BACK TO SLEEP (Triangle Choke)! That’s Spiral’s old finisher, Legion’s father! Luther falls to his knees and gets locked in tight!
Luther’s hand is shaking in the air! Will he tap?!?! The fans are going insane as Legion tries to block off any blood reaching the Dutch Destroyer's brain! The referee is in position! Luther’s hand is starting to fall! The match could be over!
NO! Luther gets a sudden burst of energy! He grabs Legion and LIFTS all 235 pounds of him into the air for a powerbomb! Legion is shaking his head and starts elbowing Luther right in the face! The big man is losing his balance and falling backward, right into a nearby corner. Another elbow, and another! Luther might be fading but at the last second he runs forward and SLAMS Legion onto his back with a sitout powerbomb!
Luther holds for the pin!
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
Legion kicks out again! Luther can’t believe it! He gets up to his feet and drags Legion up with him. He kicks the champ in the stomach a few times until the man’s bent over, then he pulls Legion forward to set up his own finisher. The crowd is spewing their hatred of the Dutch Destroyer as he lifts the champion up and behind his head, into the crucifix position!
Luther holds it as he stares toward the main camera and begins cackling like a crazed beast. Then, in one swift motion, he delivers the SWORD OF DAMOCLES (Crucifix Powerbomb)… BUT WAIT A MINUTE! Legion slips free and hits the canvas behind him! Luther spins around in time to get grappled by the champion. Schoolboy! Luther gets rolled up in the cradle. Here’s the count!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Ref Stef signals for the bell!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL) AND STILL UPRISING CHAMPION: LEGION
Luther kicks out just a split second too late. Legion rolls away toward the ropes, holding his knee. The referee fetches the belt from the crewman at ringside. Meanwhile Luther is having a full blown meltdown over his loss. He runs over to the champion and starts stomping on him! Legion fights through it, slowly pulling himself to his feet as the Dutch Destroyer goes from kicks to heavy fists.
Legion throws a chop that rips across Luther’s chest, forcing him a step backward, but the big man comes right back to eat another knife edge chop. Luther grabs Legion by the neck and headbutts him! Legion drops like a sack of potatoes against the bottom and middle ropes. His arms get tied up between the two taped-up cables.
Luther looks around the boo-filled ballroom with a sadistic smile on his face. He drops down and rolls out of the ring. The ref has moved in, attempting to free Legion but before she can, the Dutch Destroyer has the chair from earlier and is back inside the squared circle. It still has a dent in it from when he punched it!
Luther holds the chair sideways and jabs the backrest into Legion’s ribs a few times, causing the champion to yowl from the pain. Then the big man opens the chair enough to slide Legion’s injured leg through it, all the way up to the knee.
The crowd’s hatred for Luther is deafening as he walks around the ring waving his arms, egging them on even more, before turning back and running for the champ. He jumps into the air and STOMPS ON THE CHAIR! People shriek as Legion screams while trying to rip his arms from the ropes.
THE CROWD ERUPTS! CUT TO THE AISLE, the Firebird, the Luchadork, IGNIS is running to the ring and she has a chair of her own! Luther doesn’t see her as he’s setting up another stomp! She slides head first under the ropes, springs to her feet and smacks the chair across Luther’s back! The crack is so loud it cuts right through the cheers and screams from the fans!
Luther spins around and glares at Ignis. Behind him head ref Delano is working to free Legion. Ignis meanwhile cocks back the chair and swings it right at Luther’s face… He catches it and yanks it from her hands! It’s been five months since Inferno when Luther beat Ignis to retain the UPRISING Championship and clearly there’s no love lost!
It’s Luther this time who swings the chair but Ignis ducks and runs for the ropes. Luther spins around as she speeds back at him. Dropkick! Right into the chair! The folded piece of dented steel smashes into Luther and he goes flying backward!
As he skids across the mat, Legion is freed from the ropes by the ref. He pulls the chair that’s wrapped around his leg off and uses it like a cane to get back to his feet. Ignis picks up the other chair and the two of them stand side by side across from the Dutch Destroyer as he gets back up. He stares at both of them before a smile slowly makes its way across his face; then he drops down, rolls out of the ring and makes his way up the aisle to a cascade of boos.
Ignis drops her chair and turns around to face Legion, who’s still holding his. He looks at her, down to the chair, and then back up. The moment is tense as the two stare down. Doubt starts to creep in as some in the audience think Legion is about to revert to his old ways and nail Ignis with the chair…
No! He tosses the chair aside and holds out his hand! The crowd pops, cameras flash, and Ignis takes his hand! They’re talking to one another but we can’t hear what they’re saying over the noise as they shake a few times. The last thing we see is the two of them with the referee now holding the UPRISING Championship belt between the two of them.
We open up to a view of LUTHER and ESME THUNDER, sitting outside a café in Reno. Luther, as per the recent norm, is dressed down in casual streetwear, as is Esme, wearing a white wife beater. Mrs. Thunder glares at the camera.
ESME THUNDER
Hello, everyone. Luther & I are taking the time to pre-record a little message for tonight’s show because... well, if we were to do it in the arena, LEGION cannot be trusted not to do some petty and mindless act of barbarism, considering his inflammatory and threatening comments on social media these past two weeks. And to be honest... you people in the crowd do not DESERVE to listen to the best damn promo in the game in person anyway, not after you all strove to humiliate and humble a man who selflessly gave you everything he had. No, Reno, you have lost that privilege with your actions. Because we all know, had LEGION wrapped a chair around the head of my husband last show, instead of the other way around, you’d have been cheering him from the rafters, sucking and leeching off his every word and movement like the disgusting little parasites you are. You do not deserve a man like Luther Thunder. You are not worthy of a man like Luther Thunder. I would question under normal circumstances whether LEGION is, either, but as he happens to have "borrowed" one of Luther’s prized possessions. It is a necessary evil that we must stoop down to the lowest common denominator. However, after my husband decimates the LEGION, that will no longer be the case. And yes, for the two of you smart enough to pick up on it, that was a Roman History joke that just sailed over everyone’s heads right now.
Luther had stood there next to her glaring at the camera all the while she spoke before he finally spoke up.
LUTHER THUNDER
So our illustrious champion got mad, mad enough to throw his weight around and bark at Larry Gowan and Brad Jackson telling them what to do. This from the same "hero" of yours who openly claimed how he doesn’t book matches or make matches yet Lawrence and Bradley eat by his hand, why? Because he has that UPRISING Championship? Because you, the unwashed, mouth-breathing, ignorant masses hoot and holler at him like this was all just an old FOX Network sitcom? Who knows. Look "champ"...I didn’t ask you to go out there on your own big mad with your emotions and threats. I didn’t call you out. You kept yelling, you kept crying wolf and when the wolf showed up, the little piggy got his head busted open.
Esme chuckles as Luther smirks at the camera.
LUTHER THUNDER
I know, I know. I just busted open a cut someone else caused you. I didn’t really do that much harm to you. Yeah sounded real brave coming from your hospital bed, right tough guy? So let’s cut to the chase, explain something so that you and your beer-chugging collective of cronies in the crowd can understand. You wanted to act like a fighting champion, yet you claim and cling on the "fact" that you offered me first dibs against you and I didn’t take it. Right? Well to me that does not sound like a fighting champion at all. It doesn’t even sound like a respectful champion. You wanted to hand me a shot and would have no doubt expected me to bow down at your feet, thanking you for your act of kindness and mercy. Oh no, young master LEGION just because the crowd and the office seems to eat from your hand does not mean everyone will. You claimed to be a fighting champion, you wanted to show how you would do things so much better? Well I came to give you a fight, I didn’t come to beg, plead or demand a thing. I am giving you just what you were begging for, if anything YOU are the one who should be thanking ME. Look at all those big names who have left UPRISING, worthy challengers, great contenders..one after another, some in droves. I haven’t gone anywhere. I was here on the inaugural REVOLUTION, before so many of those who now fill the roster had even joined. I was here, I was the first person Bradley Jackson reached out to bring in here and as far as your little gossip mongering, your little rumor mill goes. You can tell the brave keyboard warriors, the so-called experts and journalists that Luther Thunder is not going to be fired from UPRISING. I am also not going to be driven out of this place by anyone either, because if I were to be fired that would end up costing this place a whole lot more than quite frankly they could afford to lose.
Esme leans up to Luther who smiles at her then glances back at the camera.
LUTHER THUNDER
So at Revolution 17. September 11th, 2021, you get what you wanted LEGION. You get just what you huffed and puffed for, you get precisely what you stomped your foot for. You get to seek vengeance of your ever so precious motive of transportation, your vehicle of choice. You can leave that pretend “gangster” talk about rats, snitches, deserts and ditches to someone who believes in it. Had I wanted you or that hunk of junk you drive in any real trouble. You would not be making such threats from the hospital nor would you be in the Silver State Ballroom defending that championship of yours against someone who is actually worth it. I won it once before and I did not lose it to you LEGION, the sorry son of a bitch who pinned me moved on to greener pastures to other championships, but you know what son? If I got that championship once before, I can get again, and again, and again. As many damn times as I please and there is not a thing you, your raving band of misfits in the stands or those beating on their keyboards at their mothers basements can do about it. Fair warning though, WHEN I get that championship in my possession, I won’t be as nice and amicable as I was on my inaugural run, I won’t be giving these fans what they want, because I choose not to pander to them. They want to side along with someone like you who looks and acts like a common thug and a hooligan, over me? After all I’ve done for them after all they could have had...
He shakes his head slowly.
LUTHER THUNDER
...sad state of affairs, isn’t it? Almost as sad as the fact that before you decided to turn into a bobblehead brute for them, you actually gave me an ounce of respect or acted like you did at least. Remember that remark where you criticized not myself as a champion but the way Bradley Jackson booked me as a champion? What a shame you didn’t keep that respect my boy, because who knows how different this situation could have been oh and Bradley? My old pal, my friend, my brother..speaking of sad state of affairs It saddens me that the mighty Dark Horse has become a gelding in his old days, because I remember a time when no one would ever tell Brad Jackson what to do, not without getting their skull caved in for it at least and now you are, getting better. Get well soon Bradley, take all the time you’ll need but keep your eyes open, watch closely because if Son of Spiral chooses to scamper on out of here, you may have to come back to your favourite UPRISING Champion in this company’s history..oh and Lawrence, congratulations on being the man in charge. From the bottom of my heart. I’ll be seeing you all tonight and remember the revolution WILL BE TELEVISED.
With that we cut to static.
CUT TO:
INT. SILVER STATE BALLROOM — THE RING.
MAIN EVENT: UPRISING CHAMPIONSHIP
LEGION (c) vs LUTHER THUNDER
Luther and Legion stand across from one another. The champion’s music fades out as the two men get ready. Luther has a hold of the top rope, using it to stretch while Legion takes off his leather jacket and tosses it over the ropes.
Referee Stef Delano signals the bell and HERE WE GO! Both men move to the middle and start circling one another. Their size discrepancy is immediately noticeable, with Luther having 3 inches and 35 pounds on the champ. Luther has his hands up, looking to grab ahold of the champion but Legion is a little smaller, a little quicker. The Dutch Destroyer goes to wrap his arms around his opponent but the champ SMACKS Luther across the face! The crowd groans as Luther stares at the champ, eyes wide and full of anger.
The challenger grabs Legion by the neck and turns, throwing him into the corner. He then cocks his arm back and throws a heavy punch. Legion ducks and moves behind Luther, grabbing him around the waist. Legion lifts the big man off his feet and drops him on his neck with a Belly to Back suplex. Legion goes for the pin but before Delano can count to one, Luther presses him into the air and throws him to the side in an impressive show of strength!
Both men get to their feet. Legion jumps on Luther who’s just a little behind. He’s throwing forearms into his face, softening him up, before turning and running for the ropes. As Legion comes rumbling back with his arm out for a clothesline Luther picks him up and delivers INTO THE STYX (Spinning Spinebuster)!!! Luther stays on top of him and yanks a leg up for the pin.
ONE!
TWO!
NO! Legion kicks out! Luther scolds the ref for not counting faster as he pulls Legion to his feet by the hair. He then turns and throws the champion through the ropes and out onto the floor. Luther climbs out of the ring and grabs Legion, throwing him into the barricade. He lands several hard punches while the referee begins her count, softening the champ up, before grabbing his neck and hooking his arm. He then lifts Legion up into the air before dropping backward, landing FALL FROM GRACE (Vertical Suplex) on the outside! Luther pops up immediately and roars with his arms in the air.
Before Delano can reach ten, Luther has Legion up and rolls him under the bottom rope. The Dutch Destroyer quickly slides in after him and covers him for the pin.
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
The ref looks up in time to see Legion’s leg on a nearby bottom rope. Luther shows his frustration as he slams a hand onto the canvas. He stands up and begins to chew out Delano. Behind her Legion is pulling himself up by the ropes while holding his back. Luther sees it and shoves the referee aside.
Legion pushes off the ropes and runs at Luther. He jumps into the air to deliver a flying knee but Luther catches him! He then runs the champion into the corner. The champ slumps from the impact and Luther sends a boot into his midsection. And another. And another! Legion is slipping down to the canvas. The Dutch Destroyer grabs the ropes and shoves his boot into the champ’s throat. The ref starts to count as Legion yells from the pain. Luther breaks on four and gets pushed back a few feet while Delano checks on Legion.
Luther raises his hands as the crowd boos. The referee steps aside as Legion gets to his feet. Luther sees his moment. He runs straight at Legion and GETS A BOOT TO THE FACE! Luther stumbles backward. Legion runs out of the corner and nails Luther with repeated hard elbows! Luther is still on his feet but he’s been backed up into the ropes. Legion turns and runs across the ring, bounces off the ropes and then barrels straight for Luther. He throws his arm out and clotheslines Luther over the top rope! Both men flip end over end and land hard on the outside mat!
Both men are hurt but Luther took the worst of it! The crowd is chanting LEGION as the champ gets to his feet. He walks over to the steel steps and picks up the top section. He turns and runs, driving it right at Luther’s head as he gets up but LUTHER KICKS THE STEPS right into Legion’s face! The champion is down as the steps thunk on the floor.
Luther walks over, grabs Legion by the hair, yanks him up, and then lifts him over his right shoulder. Luther turns and runs straight for the nearest corner post but LEGION PUSHES OFF! He lands behind the challenger and pushes him face first into the steel pole!
Legion jumps up on the apron and moves around the corner. Luther is getting up on the outside, holding his face where it hit the post. Legion runs down the apron, jumps, and nails Luther with the RANDOM ACTIVE OF VIOLENCE (Claymore Kick)!!!! Luther goes down hard! Legion looks up and around with a mad grin on his face as the crowd chants his name.
Legion rolls in the ring briefly to reset the count then rolls back out. He kicks Luther straight in the head three times. He could roll the Dutch Destroyer in the ring and go for the pin but instead he turns away and heads around the ring to where the timekeeper sits. He takes the man’s chair, folds it up and then walks back for Luther. This isn't about wins and losses. This is about punishing Luther for what he did!
The referee is warning him from inside the ring. If Legion uses the chair, he’s DQ’d BUT he retains! He finds Luther getting to his feet. He lifts the chair and swings it BUT LUTHER PUNCHES THE CHAIR RIGHT BACK INTO THE CHAMP’S FACE! Chair goes flying as Legion crumbles to the floor! Luther grabs the champ, lifts him and throws him into the ring.
Luther climbs inside and walks over to the champ, who’s rolled all the way to the center of the squared circle. Legion is knocked out! WRATH OF GOD (Garvin Stomps)! Luther stomps Legion’s shoulder, then his head, then his other shoulder, his ribs, and hip. Down his right leg, he stomps on the knee over and over as the champ wakes up and starts howling in pain while reaching down to grab his knee but Luther keeps stomping!
Legion uses his other leg to kick up, landing his foot across Luther’s face! The Dutch Destroyer backs up while grabbing his head, giving Legion time to get up and hobble back into a corner. He shakes his leg out and puts some weight on it. Clearly it’s hurting the champ as he gingerly moves forward.
Luther is up and scowling as he meets the champ. Both men are tired and covered in sweat. Legion throws a crooked arm lariat at Luther’s face! The big man buckles but doesn't fall! Legion looks around the ballroom before throwing another! Again Luther is rocked but he stays on his feet. Legion then turns and runs for the ropes, bounces off, and charges for another but LUTHER GRABS HIM IN A BEAR HUG!
The crowd cheers the champ on as the breath is squeezed out of him by the Dutch Destroyer! Delano is right there, asking if Legion wants her to call it but he shakes his head no. After several grueling seconds, it appears the champ is starting to fade. He goes limp! The ref checks his arm. She raises it and it drops! She raises it again and it falls like dead weight! She lifts it one more time. This could be it! She let’s go…
LEGION HOLDS UP HIS ARM! Luther growls as he tries to crush the champ! Legion looks at Luther with mad eyes before he bends his head forward and BITES LUTHER’S EAR! The challenger yells and is forced to release the hold! The ref was on the other side and didn’t see it! Legion staggers back as he recovers with a little bit of red on his lips.
Luther grabs his ear and sees his own blood. The rage builds in his eyes until they nearly turn red! The Dutch Destroyer runs straight at Legion, but the champ moves! Luther goes chest first into the turnbuckle and stumbles backward RIGHT INTO THE CHAMP’S ARMS! Legion HOISTS the big man up across his shoulders and walks him to the center of the ring. This could be it! VULGAR DISPLAY OF POWER… NO! Luther slips down behind the champ! Legion turns. THUNDERSTRUCK (SUPERKICK) BY LUTHER… NO! It misses as Legion ducks underneath! He bends down and lifts Luther up on his shoulders in the electric chair position, an impressive show of strength by the champ! Is he going to hit his old finisher, the DOOM THAT CAME TO RENO?!
Luther fights it! He’s raining down punches onto Legion’s vulnerable skull until the strikes take their toll and the champ’s injured leg gives out! Both men fall to the side but Luther immediately bounces up. He draws his thumb across his throat before bending down to grab the champ by the head BUT LEGION COUNTERS! He wraps his legs around Luther’s neck and traps his arm! The crowd erupts! GO BACK TO SLEEP (Triangle Choke)! That’s Spiral’s old finisher, Legion’s father! Luther falls to his knees and gets locked in tight!
Luther’s hand is shaking in the air! Will he tap?!?! The fans are going insane as Legion tries to block off any blood reaching the Dutch Destroyer's brain! The referee is in position! Luther’s hand is starting to fall! The match could be over!
NO! Luther gets a sudden burst of energy! He grabs Legion and LIFTS all 235 pounds of him into the air for a powerbomb! Legion is shaking his head and starts elbowing Luther right in the face! The big man is losing his balance and falling backward, right into a nearby corner. Another elbow, and another! Luther might be fading but at the last second he runs forward and SLAMS Legion onto his back with a sitout powerbomb!
Luther holds for the pin!
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
Legion kicks out again! Luther can’t believe it! He gets up to his feet and drags Legion up with him. He kicks the champ in the stomach a few times until the man’s bent over, then he pulls Legion forward to set up his own finisher. The crowd is spewing their hatred of the Dutch Destroyer as he lifts the champion up and behind his head, into the crucifix position!
Luther holds it as he stares toward the main camera and begins cackling like a crazed beast. Then, in one swift motion, he delivers the SWORD OF DAMOCLES (Crucifix Powerbomb)… BUT WAIT A MINUTE! Legion slips free and hits the canvas behind him! Luther spins around in time to get grappled by the champion. Schoolboy! Luther gets rolled up in the cradle. Here’s the count!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Ref Stef signals for the bell!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL) AND STILL UPRISING CHAMPION: LEGION
Luther kicks out just a split second too late. Legion rolls away toward the ropes, holding his knee. The referee fetches the belt from the crewman at ringside. Meanwhile Luther is having a full blown meltdown over his loss. He runs over to the champion and starts stomping on him! Legion fights through it, slowly pulling himself to his feet as the Dutch Destroyer goes from kicks to heavy fists.
Legion throws a chop that rips across Luther’s chest, forcing him a step backward, but the big man comes right back to eat another knife edge chop. Luther grabs Legion by the neck and headbutts him! Legion drops like a sack of potatoes against the bottom and middle ropes. His arms get tied up between the two taped-up cables.
Luther looks around the boo-filled ballroom with a sadistic smile on his face. He drops down and rolls out of the ring. The ref has moved in, attempting to free Legion but before she can, the Dutch Destroyer has the chair from earlier and is back inside the squared circle. It still has a dent in it from when he punched it!
Luther holds the chair sideways and jabs the backrest into Legion’s ribs a few times, causing the champion to yowl from the pain. Then the big man opens the chair enough to slide Legion’s injured leg through it, all the way up to the knee.
The crowd’s hatred for Luther is deafening as he walks around the ring waving his arms, egging them on even more, before turning back and running for the champ. He jumps into the air and STOMPS ON THE CHAIR! People shriek as Legion screams while trying to rip his arms from the ropes.
THE CROWD ERUPTS! CUT TO THE AISLE, the Firebird, the Luchadork, IGNIS is running to the ring and she has a chair of her own! Luther doesn’t see her as he’s setting up another stomp! She slides head first under the ropes, springs to her feet and smacks the chair across Luther’s back! The crack is so loud it cuts right through the cheers and screams from the fans!
Luther spins around and glares at Ignis. Behind him head ref Delano is working to free Legion. Ignis meanwhile cocks back the chair and swings it right at Luther’s face… He catches it and yanks it from her hands! It’s been five months since Inferno when Luther beat Ignis to retain the UPRISING Championship and clearly there’s no love lost!
It’s Luther this time who swings the chair but Ignis ducks and runs for the ropes. Luther spins around as she speeds back at him. Dropkick! Right into the chair! The folded piece of dented steel smashes into Luther and he goes flying backward!
As he skids across the mat, Legion is freed from the ropes by the ref. He pulls the chair that’s wrapped around his leg off and uses it like a cane to get back to his feet. Ignis picks up the other chair and the two of them stand side by side across from the Dutch Destroyer as he gets back up. He stares at both of them before a smile slowly makes its way across his face; then he drops down, rolls out of the ring and makes his way up the aisle to a cascade of boos.
Ignis drops her chair and turns around to face Legion, who’s still holding his. He looks at her, down to the chair, and then back up. The moment is tense as the two stare down. Doubt starts to creep in as some in the audience think Legion is about to revert to his old ways and nail Ignis with the chair…
No! He tosses the chair aside and holds out his hand! The crowd pops, cameras flash, and Ignis takes his hand! They’re talking to one another but we can’t hear what they’re saying over the noise as they shake a few times. The last thing we see is the two of them with the referee now holding the UPRISING Championship belt between the two of them.
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© UPRISING 2021
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QUICKIE RESULTS:
THE FAMILY CROWE vs STARR/POWER
HAYLEY FIEN vs LIL JUICY
SUPREME MACHINE (c) vs ISABELLA PAZZINI
RENO NEVADA vs CHRIS MOSH
KENDRICK KROSS vs GRIFFIN HAWKINS
REGAN VOORHEES vs KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
SAMANTHA TOLSON vs SUMMER PAGE
GASTON GILLET (c) vs CODA
LEGION (c) vs LUTHER THUNDER