Post by Admin on Dec 30, 2021 21:45:58 GMT -5
LIVE FROM THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM at the historic ELDORADO CASINO in RENO, NV JANUARY 1, 2022 |
INT. ELDORADO CASINO -- EMPLOYEE ENTRANCE
STEVE the Intern is pacing backstage near the employees entrance from the parking lot. He’s dressed up, wearing a burgundy velvet suit jacket over a black collarless dress shirt; he’s clearly taken some time with his appearance tonight which leaves a mystery as to whom he’s waiting for. That question is answered in short order when fitness guru MARISOL VILARO comes through the door. She completely ignores Steve, almost as though she doesn’t see him as she heads right past where he’s standing.
INTERN STEVE
(calling out after her)
Uhm...hey. Miss Vilaro?
Poor Steve starts after her when she doesn’t react and by the time he catches up, he’s almost winded.
INTERN STEVE
(louder)
Miss Vilaro? Excuse me do you-
She stops and turns around so suddenly that Steve crashes into her awkwardly. He quickly steps back, looking horrified. Now that he’s close, right up in her face, it’s a wonder she didn’t notice him because it’s as though he took a long swim in a vat of vaguely woodsy-scented gasoline.
MARISOL VILARO
WHAT THE HELL?! DO YOU KNOW I AM THE MOST IMPORTANT REFEREE ON THE SHOW TONIGHT?! NO ME, NO TITLE MATCH! Like how would that make you feel if you ruined the main event?! Also, what is that stench?
Marisol says disgustedly, nose wrinkling as she stares at him in horror until he backs up a few more steps.
INTERN STEVE
It’s... uhm... it's called Dark Phoenix. My nana got me this box set for Christmas and–
MARISOL VILARO
I mean if you’re trying to impress a woman, I will give you a hint: buy my patented Vilaro System. I mean you could use it, like you’re in need of some toning up. that's for sure and my system and the Maricise companion app can help you with that. Now, look at the wonders my system has done for my client Chris Mosh... you know the soon-to-be Uprising Champion, or Reno Nevada, the man who will teach Tolson the manners her parents clearly failed to, or my lovely Trios Champions, the Page Sisters. They're the most picture-perfect trio of women there is -- well, besides myself. Last but not least a true man, a man you should look up to: my modern day Adonis, Cliff Morgan. The man who will embarrass Gaston out there tonight, showing why he is the true next Silver State Champion.
Marisol soon taps her foot impatiently, getting back to the matter at hand now that she's done extolling the virtues of all her clientele.
MARISOL VILARO
So what do you want? I am a busy, busy woman. I have a world title match to referee tonight, remember?
Steve nods quickly, blushing bright red as he stammers.
INTERN STEVE
Right. Of course. I mean, I know you do but I just thought that maybe... I... that is to say that you might be able to...
He swallows hard.
INTERN STEVE
Do you really think the Vilaro System would help me?
Marisol smirks, looking him up and down. Finally, she reaches out and squeezes his scrawny arm as though she's able to judge his fitness level that accurately.
MARISOL VILARO
I do! I mean I have dealt with worse cases; look at Reno and the shape he was in before he came to me. He went from being mistaken for a heroin addict to being on the cover of fitness magazines. I changed his life. He's in the very best shape of his life and tonight he's going to show the world just why he's the most dangerous man in the company. Sam Tolson is going to have the respect beaten into her. Respect for him. Respect for me. For all of The 1%, really and I'm going to enjoy watching every single damn second of it!
Marisol says proudly, nodding her head.
MARISOL VILARO
I mean if my system can do that in such a short period of time, it can help you not look like you're about to vanish into thin air. I mean it is New Years; it is when changes are made. What better time to order my system than today?
Steve takes a step closer, nodding eagerly but Marisol takes a step back to stay out of the cloud of Axe.
INTERN STEVE
I got some money for Christmas, so I can probably... oh. I almost forgot to tell you: Mr. Gowan wants to see you in his office. He sounded like it was kinda important which totally is why I came down here to meet you and not at all because I was being weird or... uh...a-anything like that.
Marisol shakes her head.
MARISOL VILARO
I can only imagine what he wants to talk to me about. In the meantime... download the Maricise app and sign up for the Platinum Plus package. It will be the wisest investment you'll ever make. Trust me, Scotty. The Vilaro System will be the best thing that ever happens to you.
INTERN STEVE
(mumbling)
It's Steve.
MARISOL VILARO
Well, can't keep our General Manager waiting. I'm sure he wants to see the soon-to-be manager of the NEW Uprising World Champion. I mean who wouldn't?
Marisol soon turns on her heel, sauntering away proudly as Steve stares after her, almost deflating the moment she turns the corner out of sight and we cut straight from there into the opening video package.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
BRANDON MERCER vs CLYDE CHENEY
Mercer is looking to end this early, coming in hot at Cheney who ducks a telegraphed strike only to walk right into a grapple and a moment later he's down thanks to a snap suplex! Back up in an instant, Brandon goes for a springboard leg drop across the neck and then scrambles up the ropes again, looking for a swanton bomb that just barely connects as Father Cheney pulls his charge out of harm's way. Mercer gets up first but he's clearly feeling it and he takes a few seconds to regroup against the ropes. He turns around at the rumble of the crowd and right into a big boot to the face that busts his forehead open! Mercer gets back to his feet and charges without thinking, enraged by the sight of his own blood, this time delivering a fast clothesline, which finally sends Cheney down hard. Immediately, Cheney gets back up, and right in Mercer's face, locking up again and ending up with Mercer trapping Cheney – blue thunder bomb out of nowhere and Cheney's down! Mercer drops for the cover!
ONE!
TW—NO!
Cheney gets the shoulder up and rolls over, almost flattening Mercer in the process and because his shoulders are down flat on the canvas, Big J moves in to count again!
ONE!
TWO
THR—FOOT ON THE ROPE~!
Cheney staggers up first as Brandon's still trying to remember how to breathe and the pain spurs him into action as Clyde stomps on his shoulders before driving a knee into his throat. Out of the blue Mercer manages to grab Cheney's leg as he tries to rise, pulling him down and off balance into a sloppy leglock. Cheney lunges for the rope, grabbing it before Mercer can pull him back. Both men hit their feet, Mercer looking a little winded as Cheney goes for a reverse neck breaker, but Mercer manages to reverse it into a backslide.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Wait! NO! Father Cheney launches himself through the ropes and crashes into the pair a split second before that final palm slap against the canvas, nailing Brandon in the face with a massive copy of the Holy Bible! Big J isn't going to stand for that and he waves the match off, calling for security to separate the two before any further damage can be done!
WINNER: NO CONTEST
CUT TO:
DARKNESS
_____________________________________________
"He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city."
Proverbs 16:32
The words are superimposed over an open field; sitting isolated is a diseased-looking tree. Its leaves are small with dark tiger orange-colored stripes, the bark fragile and crumbling from the trunk. The tree was dying under normal circumstances, soon ceasing to exist. An individual stood facing away from the tree, his body masked with a shadow black coat; his face is covered with a fracture of a skull mask leaving the bottom of his mouth the only part that's visible.
UNKNOWN
This tree, to put it simply, is us. We are all healthy, hard-working members of society. We are watching this tree be taken down by a figure, a thing, or an item. This is the perfect example of life; we as people give our time, energy, and power willingly, sucked up by things we can’t control. Doing so leaves us to make mistakes that could harm us, wound us, or even worse, be our end. We expect pity for our actions, we expect people to be trying to save us from the darkness that we allowed ourselves to be placed in; but what happens when no one comes to the rescue?
The scene switches to a dark room that seems like a shell, keeping the light from entering the space. What we can see from the four candles; was a skull that resemble a human in size but not in looks. Having a large horn on the far right sticking out towards the ceiling being the size of a deer’s antler. With that sight of the horn, one could draw the conclusion it was a deer’s head, but the teeth match the sharpness, thickness, and size of a great white. The eyes have an endless black abyss.
UNKNOWN
"What is this," I hear you ask? Why did I bring you to this world?
From outside the lens, the Judas of Wrestling enters; his head down with his eyes glued to the skull of the unknown creature. He stands with his Shogun jacket, wearing it proudly. His jeans are buckled up by a belt with a skull emblem.
LOGAN BURGESS
This is an Oni; one of a kind. What’s an Oni?
Logan turns to the camera lens with an unpleasant turn of the eyes.
LOGAN BURGESS
An Oni is what Japanese people refer to as a demon. Some have multiple horns, others have one. I carry this one around with me, even wearing it to the ring for my matches. Why? The meaning of an Oni is more than just a Demon. That’s just the surface. They bring unspeakable evil, a sight worse than death, worse than any mere human can stick their greedy hands into. Which begs the other question, why bring it around with me?
Logan grabs the skull by the horns, forcing it to face him. In that quiet second, the Judas of Wrestling doesn’t speak. His eyes don’t change, instead they glare back into the dark eyeholes of the Oni.
LOGAN BURGESS
Not everyone has conquered their evil; I have grabbed mine by the horns and slashed the head of the Oni that loomed over me for years. The battle grew easier with time as I wised up, trained more, and didn’t give up. For others, it won’t be that easy. With how fragile the world’s willpower has grown it takes a special individual to truly – dare I say? Slay the Beast. Instead of being the angel that showed people the way, instead of being that guardian angel that brings people to heaven; I turned my back to Jesus. This world doesn’t deserve the happy resolution. Life might be hard, but I told God I’ll make sure Death is just as hard. Why should people, spirits who can’t conquer their own demons, their own problems, be allowed sat·is·fac·tion?
Logan breaks up the word, enunciating it slowly as his voice grows deeper and louder.
LOGAN BURGESS
I am no god; I buried him. I am no police; I don’t give a fair trial. I am no lawyer; everyone is guilty as charged. I am Judas. I am the betrayer, the spirit that brings nothing but evil. That evil will unfold in UPRISING. 2022 will see the Uprising of Evil, the uprising of a new beginning for the Public Enemy. You pushed me to the edge until I leaped, when I leaped no one caught me. Nobody cared. Growing up, I was told two wrongs don’t equal a right. There’s some truth behind it 'cause in my world, two wrongs equal Game Over.
Logan drops the mask. Right before it hits the ground, the scene goes black.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
EXT. ELDORADO CASINO -- PARKING LOT
Outside of the arena we see newcomer JACKI O'LANTERN and her army of fans gathered together all wearing her official Frightfully Delightful Ice Cream T-shirts, including Jacki herself. They take notice of the camera being there as they allow Jacki to address it. She's all smiles, rocking her trademark facepaint and green hair. It's a big night for everyone involved in the show and even though she's considered brand new to the company and hasn’t had her debut match, being there still feels special. She licks her lips before she speaks up.
JACKI O'LANTERN
Hello Uprising fans! I’m so happy to be here witnessing all this action with you all. I know what you are thinking, who is this pumpkin face girl? Good question! I’m Jacki O’Lantern. Some may have heard of me, some may not. I’m sure we will all get acquainted with each other soon enough. I’m a pretty cool cat, but if you come at me wrong, or my people I’ll claw you. (Sorry kids, but there are bad people in this world unfortunately) Anyway, you may be asking why I chose to join Uprising? Well, it’s like Disneyland…I’ve been hearing about it a lot and it seems to be very popular, but what drove me to really come here is the talent and a place I feel like I would fit in perfectly. There are so many talented individuals that grace the shows every single week. Names like Griffin Hawkins, Coda, Samantha Tolson, and so many others.
She closes her eyes for a bit and thinks about potential dream matches that could happen before opening her eyes and smiling once again.
JACKI O'LANTERN
I’m all about seizing opportunities. Uprising gave me a big opportunity by allowing me here and I’ll surely use that to my advantage by proving myself day in and day out while keeping the fun alive, because who would I be if I didn’t have fun?! That is a frightening thought, but do not frighten my little creatures, I will bring the fun, adventures and ass kicking for you! So sit back, relax, and grab some snacks, and maybe a blanket to cover your eyes...you never know when my darn elbow will need to be put back in place again. Enough about my ramblings though.. enjoy the show and I’ll be seeing all of you very soon!
She gets closer to the camera and makes a face before she steps back and walks away. Her army of fans quickly follow from behind as discussion of the show can be heard while they are walking away.
The pearly whites and glistening pecs of GASTON GILLET are on full display when the camera returns inside, showing off that the former Silver State Champion is dressed in his usual red, white and blue. Seemingly pumped up for his upcoming match.
GASTON GILLET
2021 has not been the best for the world, merde. If we are being blunt it’s been less than perfect. However tonight January 1st, 2022 it is our chance to start anew and it’s against none other but the challenge that is Cliff Morgan. However we don’t judge Cliff for his association or the people he chooses to spend his time with. The 1% and the talking heads of The Vilaro System are not the ones anyone should willingly choose to spend their time with.
We see Gillet bulging his muscles and those questionable tight trunks as he flexes for the camera and Arianna Manning gets a moment to speak.
ARIANNA MANNING
We? No, don’t you go all loose and free with the WE. Gaston MAY not judge you for the company you keep, because he is a swell guy, an everyman, a non-judgmental hunk of GRADE-A Americana manmeat... but me? I sure as SHIT will judge the hell out your sorry ass! Freakin’ one percenters... in what universe is being the one percent a good thing? If I told you Cliff Morgan had a one percent chance of winning, would anyone consider that good? I mean, I’d consider those odds GENEROUS, but that’s besides the point! Screw your hoity-toity, one percent fucking SHIT, my main man proudly represents the 99%... that’s the MAJORITY if you will, true red, white and blue blue collar Americana, and we spit on your fancy suits and your low tax, stomping on the working class fucking BULLSHIT. Listen people, me and all of you are friends, right?
The crowd cheers.
ARIANNA MANNING
Do NOT under any circumstance buy any of this Vilaro System BULLSHIT. It’s a massive freakin’ fraud. I mean, just look at people like Chris Mosh and Cliff Morgan. Do EITHER of them, with their precious protein shake fucking CRAP, have a physique that compares to what nothing but lean steak and pure AMERICANA can create, in my man Gaston Gillet? Plus, I mean Vilaro herself came up with this, and she’s a TOTAL FRUMP, at least when compared to a blonde, sexy, good ol’, AMERICAN GODDESS like yours truly! And if Vilaro has any beef with what I say, how about me and you tangle in that ring, you fake shake sheik? I’ve got a red, white and blue boot that’s got a date with your FRUMPY FOREIGN-SOUNDIN’ caboose, and I don’t need no protein powders. The only powder required is the proverbial gunpowder when my mad skills BLOW YOUR FUCKING BRAINS! I’m twice the manager you are, three times the wrestler, and four times the sexilicious booty queen, so take your one percent and stick it up your bootleg total gym, sister!
GASTON GILLET
I’m sorry, Arianna kinda just says how she feels but if you consider yourselves as the 1% and somehow better, I hate to break it to you the 99% of the population wishes that I would send your behinds packing, because while you sit there in in your VIP STANDS with you special seats, the fact of the matter is that none of these great shows, none of these matches RIGHT HERE IN RENO NEVADA...
He pauses for the crowd pop that comes right on cue.
GASTON GILLET
...would ever happen without the hard working masses! Without their input, if the fans, the crowd the everyday workers and people you consider beneath you would not fill these seats and stands, no one would honestly care for any single one of you and tonight when I face Cliff Morgan, I will kick his 1% ass from pillar to post and it won’t be just the red, white and blue thing to, it is also the the RIGHT thing to do! I’ll see you out there Cliff, we’ll see if you got even that 1% of a chance walking out of this match as a winner, because just like the revolution, your ass-kicking will be televised!
With that being said the duo exit and the show heads back to ringside for the next match.
LIL JUICY vs AZURINE VEBBINS
Before the bell even stops ringing, Azzy launches herself from the corner with a springboard knee to the face, following it up with a Thesz press as she pummels Juicy – he bucks her off and as she scrambles back, catches her by the ankle. He tries for an anklelock but gets a kick to the face for good measure. He falls back and Vebbins gets the inverted Juji Gatame locked in – ROPE BREAK FOR ANOTHER RESET! The crowd is loving the fast pace of this match. Back on their feet, Juicy ducks under a roundhouse kick, sweeps the leg like he's Johnny and sends Azurine crashing into the corner. She collides back-first, in agony and Juicy follows her in, looking for a splash and eating an elbow to the face instead. He staggers back from the stiff blow and right into a half nelson suplex! Juicy's still selling the forearm shiver to the face and Vebbins backs off to give him space to recover, seeming genuinely concerned until Juicy lashes out, aiming a kick to her knee that she dodges in time. She springs off the ropes with a double axehandle as he's rising, sending Juicy crashing back down. She's happy to help him up and is surprised when Juicy unloads a kick to the midsection. He grabs Azzy, hoisting her up, looking for a side suplex, but Vebbins twists in the air, managing to turn it into a Frankensteiner! ABSOLUTELY AWESOME REVERSAL AND THE CROWD IS LOVING THIS DISPLAY!
Vebbins scoops Juicy up, only to get a thumb to the eyes. She stumbles back, and the momentary lapse is all Juicy needs to try and turn the tide. He drives a few chops into Azzy's chest before going for a stunner only to have Azzy reverse it into a backbreaker!! They both stagger up, feeling that impact and Juicy avoids a kick, catching her into position for the ugliest Death Valley Driver you've ever seen! He plants Vebbins and shrugs at the hard camera. She's down, looking like she might be hurt and Juicy scales the ropes, measuring Vebbins as she starts to sit up – he takes flight and nails Let the Juices Flow (diving DDT from the top rope), hooking both legs for the cover.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Azurine Vebbins kicks out a split second too late! Juicy just stole himself a huge upset victory to kick off 2022!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): LIL JUICY
JACKI O'LANTERN
Hello Uprising fans! I’m so happy to be here witnessing all this action with you all. I know what you are thinking, who is this pumpkin face girl? Good question! I’m Jacki O’Lantern. Some may have heard of me, some may not. I’m sure we will all get acquainted with each other soon enough. I’m a pretty cool cat, but if you come at me wrong, or my people I’ll claw you. (Sorry kids, but there are bad people in this world unfortunately) Anyway, you may be asking why I chose to join Uprising? Well, it’s like Disneyland…I’ve been hearing about it a lot and it seems to be very popular, but what drove me to really come here is the talent and a place I feel like I would fit in perfectly. There are so many talented individuals that grace the shows every single week. Names like Griffin Hawkins, Coda, Samantha Tolson, and so many others.
She closes her eyes for a bit and thinks about potential dream matches that could happen before opening her eyes and smiling once again.
JACKI O'LANTERN
I’m all about seizing opportunities. Uprising gave me a big opportunity by allowing me here and I’ll surely use that to my advantage by proving myself day in and day out while keeping the fun alive, because who would I be if I didn’t have fun?! That is a frightening thought, but do not frighten my little creatures, I will bring the fun, adventures and ass kicking for you! So sit back, relax, and grab some snacks, and maybe a blanket to cover your eyes...you never know when my darn elbow will need to be put back in place again. Enough about my ramblings though.. enjoy the show and I’ll be seeing all of you very soon!
She gets closer to the camera and makes a face before she steps back and walks away. Her army of fans quickly follow from behind as discussion of the show can be heard while they are walking away.
CUT TO:
INT. BACKSTAGE -- CONTINUOUS
The pearly whites and glistening pecs of GASTON GILLET are on full display when the camera returns inside, showing off that the former Silver State Champion is dressed in his usual red, white and blue. Seemingly pumped up for his upcoming match.
GASTON GILLET
2021 has not been the best for the world, merde. If we are being blunt it’s been less than perfect. However tonight January 1st, 2022 it is our chance to start anew and it’s against none other but the challenge that is Cliff Morgan. However we don’t judge Cliff for his association or the people he chooses to spend his time with. The 1% and the talking heads of The Vilaro System are not the ones anyone should willingly choose to spend their time with.
We see Gillet bulging his muscles and those questionable tight trunks as he flexes for the camera and Arianna Manning gets a moment to speak.
ARIANNA MANNING
We? No, don’t you go all loose and free with the WE. Gaston MAY not judge you for the company you keep, because he is a swell guy, an everyman, a non-judgmental hunk of GRADE-A Americana manmeat... but me? I sure as SHIT will judge the hell out your sorry ass! Freakin’ one percenters... in what universe is being the one percent a good thing? If I told you Cliff Morgan had a one percent chance of winning, would anyone consider that good? I mean, I’d consider those odds GENEROUS, but that’s besides the point! Screw your hoity-toity, one percent fucking SHIT, my main man proudly represents the 99%... that’s the MAJORITY if you will, true red, white and blue blue collar Americana, and we spit on your fancy suits and your low tax, stomping on the working class fucking BULLSHIT. Listen people, me and all of you are friends, right?
The crowd cheers.
ARIANNA MANNING
Do NOT under any circumstance buy any of this Vilaro System BULLSHIT. It’s a massive freakin’ fraud. I mean, just look at people like Chris Mosh and Cliff Morgan. Do EITHER of them, with their precious protein shake fucking CRAP, have a physique that compares to what nothing but lean steak and pure AMERICANA can create, in my man Gaston Gillet? Plus, I mean Vilaro herself came up with this, and she’s a TOTAL FRUMP, at least when compared to a blonde, sexy, good ol’, AMERICAN GODDESS like yours truly! And if Vilaro has any beef with what I say, how about me and you tangle in that ring, you fake shake sheik? I’ve got a red, white and blue boot that’s got a date with your FRUMPY FOREIGN-SOUNDIN’ caboose, and I don’t need no protein powders. The only powder required is the proverbial gunpowder when my mad skills BLOW YOUR FUCKING BRAINS! I’m twice the manager you are, three times the wrestler, and four times the sexilicious booty queen, so take your one percent and stick it up your bootleg total gym, sister!
GASTON GILLET
I’m sorry, Arianna kinda just says how she feels but if you consider yourselves as the 1% and somehow better, I hate to break it to you the 99% of the population wishes that I would send your behinds packing, because while you sit there in in your VIP STANDS with you special seats, the fact of the matter is that none of these great shows, none of these matches RIGHT HERE IN RENO NEVADA...
He pauses for the crowd pop that comes right on cue.
GASTON GILLET
...would ever happen without the hard working masses! Without their input, if the fans, the crowd the everyday workers and people you consider beneath you would not fill these seats and stands, no one would honestly care for any single one of you and tonight when I face Cliff Morgan, I will kick his 1% ass from pillar to post and it won’t be just the red, white and blue thing to, it is also the the RIGHT thing to do! I’ll see you out there Cliff, we’ll see if you got even that 1% of a chance walking out of this match as a winner, because just like the revolution, your ass-kicking will be televised!
With that being said the duo exit and the show heads back to ringside for the next match.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
LIL JUICY vs AZURINE VEBBINS
Before the bell even stops ringing, Azzy launches herself from the corner with a springboard knee to the face, following it up with a Thesz press as she pummels Juicy – he bucks her off and as she scrambles back, catches her by the ankle. He tries for an anklelock but gets a kick to the face for good measure. He falls back and Vebbins gets the inverted Juji Gatame locked in – ROPE BREAK FOR ANOTHER RESET! The crowd is loving the fast pace of this match. Back on their feet, Juicy ducks under a roundhouse kick, sweeps the leg like he's Johnny and sends Azurine crashing into the corner. She collides back-first, in agony and Juicy follows her in, looking for a splash and eating an elbow to the face instead. He staggers back from the stiff blow and right into a half nelson suplex! Juicy's still selling the forearm shiver to the face and Vebbins backs off to give him space to recover, seeming genuinely concerned until Juicy lashes out, aiming a kick to her knee that she dodges in time. She springs off the ropes with a double axehandle as he's rising, sending Juicy crashing back down. She's happy to help him up and is surprised when Juicy unloads a kick to the midsection. He grabs Azzy, hoisting her up, looking for a side suplex, but Vebbins twists in the air, managing to turn it into a Frankensteiner! ABSOLUTELY AWESOME REVERSAL AND THE CROWD IS LOVING THIS DISPLAY!
Vebbins scoops Juicy up, only to get a thumb to the eyes. She stumbles back, and the momentary lapse is all Juicy needs to try and turn the tide. He drives a few chops into Azzy's chest before going for a stunner only to have Azzy reverse it into a backbreaker!! They both stagger up, feeling that impact and Juicy avoids a kick, catching her into position for the ugliest Death Valley Driver you've ever seen! He plants Vebbins and shrugs at the hard camera. She's down, looking like she might be hurt and Juicy scales the ropes, measuring Vebbins as she starts to sit up – he takes flight and nails Let the Juices Flow (diving DDT from the top rope), hooking both legs for the cover.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Azurine Vebbins kicks out a split second too late! Juicy just stole himself a huge upset victory to kick off 2022!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): LIL JUICY
CUT TO:
EXT. SOMEWHERE IN RENO
We see the trio of The Beautification Movement heading to a Hot Topic in a mall, as Patience is the first to address the camera of the three.
PATIENCE WINTERS
Alright, our adoring audience! Today we're on a field trip to understand End Times' motivations and inner thoughts, so...
She say as the camera pans up to a Hot Topic, and then back down to the other girls, which Faith is actively cringing.
FAITH JENSEN
We could have done Spencer's instead, but noooo, we get the goth kids.
Carmen Santana is scowling and groaning, her attitude grumpy.
CARMEN SANTANA
UGH! I hate it here! Everything here is SO ugly and cheap! I wanna burn it all!
She speaks in a monotone, angry voice, rolling her eyes.
PATIENCE WINTERS
Girls, c'mon! They have to have something here that has some merit to it! Surely, End Times can't be the loser goths we all know that they actually are!
She says, trying to be positive, though, deep down she knows it's in vain. Carmen seems like she's trying her best to "get in character". She's always wanted to be an actress too, at least a small part of her. She's clearly not very good at it as it doesn't take her long to break character.
CARMEN SANTANA
How do they do this all the time? So angry and envious ALL the time? It’s MISERABLE.
FAITH JENSEN
I mean... if I had to listen to My Chemical Romance all the time, I would be miserable, too.
She said, with a crinkle of her nose, as Patience walked in while looking at the torn fishnet stockings.
PATIENCE WINTERS
Um, miss, all of these are damaged...
CLERK
Oh no, they send them to us like this!
Faith shudders, looking horrified as she and Carmen started going through a rack, looking at each top.
FAITH JENSEN
Black. Emo. Nerd shit. More black.
CARMEN SANTANA
Ugly. Disgusting. No wonder they’re so mad. All this is supposed to DISTRACT from the fact they’re insecure for not being pretty enough?
Patience tries to calm her friends, hands on their exposed backs, as all three are wearing tube tops.
PATIENCE WINTERS
Looking like we do? Pretty never goes out of style. Goths? Sad, aggro girls, never lasts. Soon enough, everyone is just scared of them, they end up alone and the cycle goes on.
FAITH JENSEN
This is gross; it's like shopping at a Goodwill!
Carmen is revolted, refusing to even let any of it touch her.
CARMEN SANTANA
More like Good Riddance. This is a yard sale for losers, but there are so many this place exists!
FAITH JENSEN
2021 was a bad year. Let’s be honest. But as your Savior, I promise: we won’t let the New Year start with this terrible omen. We can’t let this happen.
PATIENCE WINTERS
Oh my God, you're right! The End Times are exactly what they say they are! The end of fashion and good taste as we know it! They have to be stopped at all costs!
CARMEN SANTANA
2020 and 2021 were already terrible. Imagine if those three rage-bitter bitches get a win to set the tone for the year? But 2020 and 2021 didn’t have The Movement.
Carmen picks out a Batman tee, gagging.
CARMEN SANTANA
Look, we’re not the heroes UPRISING deserves, but they need us.
FAITH JENSEN
I’m such a generous Goddess!
Faith would reveal some wrestling merch of some obnoxious punk chick, before tearing it in half.
FAITH JENSEN
A very generous Goddess, indeed.
PATIENCE WINTERS
And as for the End Times... there isn't a more appropriate name for you. You're done for.
She declares, snapping her fingers as we cut to black.
_____________________________________________
PATIENCE WINTERS
Alright, our adoring audience! Today we're on a field trip to understand End Times' motivations and inner thoughts, so...
She say as the camera pans up to a Hot Topic, and then back down to the other girls, which Faith is actively cringing.
FAITH JENSEN
We could have done Spencer's instead, but noooo, we get the goth kids.
Carmen Santana is scowling and groaning, her attitude grumpy.
CARMEN SANTANA
UGH! I hate it here! Everything here is SO ugly and cheap! I wanna burn it all!
She speaks in a monotone, angry voice, rolling her eyes.
PATIENCE WINTERS
Girls, c'mon! They have to have something here that has some merit to it! Surely, End Times can't be the loser goths we all know that they actually are!
She says, trying to be positive, though, deep down she knows it's in vain. Carmen seems like she's trying her best to "get in character". She's always wanted to be an actress too, at least a small part of her. She's clearly not very good at it as it doesn't take her long to break character.
CARMEN SANTANA
How do they do this all the time? So angry and envious ALL the time? It’s MISERABLE.
FAITH JENSEN
I mean... if I had to listen to My Chemical Romance all the time, I would be miserable, too.
She said, with a crinkle of her nose, as Patience walked in while looking at the torn fishnet stockings.
PATIENCE WINTERS
Um, miss, all of these are damaged...
CLERK
Oh no, they send them to us like this!
Faith shudders, looking horrified as she and Carmen started going through a rack, looking at each top.
FAITH JENSEN
Black. Emo. Nerd shit. More black.
CARMEN SANTANA
Ugly. Disgusting. No wonder they’re so mad. All this is supposed to DISTRACT from the fact they’re insecure for not being pretty enough?
Patience tries to calm her friends, hands on their exposed backs, as all three are wearing tube tops.
PATIENCE WINTERS
Looking like we do? Pretty never goes out of style. Goths? Sad, aggro girls, never lasts. Soon enough, everyone is just scared of them, they end up alone and the cycle goes on.
FAITH JENSEN
This is gross; it's like shopping at a Goodwill!
Carmen is revolted, refusing to even let any of it touch her.
CARMEN SANTANA
More like Good Riddance. This is a yard sale for losers, but there are so many this place exists!
FAITH JENSEN
2021 was a bad year. Let’s be honest. But as your Savior, I promise: we won’t let the New Year start with this terrible omen. We can’t let this happen.
PATIENCE WINTERS
Oh my God, you're right! The End Times are exactly what they say they are! The end of fashion and good taste as we know it! They have to be stopped at all costs!
CARMEN SANTANA
2020 and 2021 were already terrible. Imagine if those three rage-bitter bitches get a win to set the tone for the year? But 2020 and 2021 didn’t have The Movement.
Carmen picks out a Batman tee, gagging.
CARMEN SANTANA
Look, we’re not the heroes UPRISING deserves, but they need us.
FAITH JENSEN
I’m such a generous Goddess!
Faith would reveal some wrestling merch of some obnoxious punk chick, before tearing it in half.
FAITH JENSEN
A very generous Goddess, indeed.
PATIENCE WINTERS
And as for the End Times... there isn't a more appropriate name for you. You're done for.
She declares, snapping her fingers as we cut to black.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
STATIC
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH is backstage, adjusting her ring gear in preparation for the match later on in the evening when suddenly the open locker is slammed shut next to her in a manner that startles her to her feet. Stepping into frame is a rather angry looking, 5’ 3” Ginger Ninja in her full black and green ring gear. She matches gazes with her two inch taller partner.
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
Hey Molly! Look I-
Molly thrusts a hand up at her.
MOLLY HATCHET
SHUT IT! Look I’ll team with just about anyone fer a match if need be, but there’s exceptions to tha rule and yer one of them. Yer a lyin’ sack of shite who has done nothing to earn either me trust or respect. I’ve watched ye hurt me friends across tha business fer years, play a wishy-washy numpty bampot cunt only ta’ suddenly stab even those closest to you, like yer own wives, in tha’ back and donnae get me started on yer personal life as I’ve seen it because we’ll be here all bloody night.
Molly steps up onto the bench beside them, adding an inch of height over Crystal so that she could look her more closely in the eye. Hilton-Zdunich glares daggers back at Molly, but allows her to continue just a little further.
MOLLY HATCHET
If ye’ fuck me o’er in any capacity at all, I swear to you that with e’ery fiber of my being I will rain down on you like Heaven’s fist of bloody judgement. I’ll beat ye through tha’ floor ye stand on, split tha Earth in half, and send ye flyin’ out tha other side ta fawkin’ China. This match be a one and fuckin’ done, yeah. Tha only way I wanna see ye again is across tha bloody ring from me as an opponent so that I can unleash every bit of this pent up rage I have against you.
Crystal’s fists clench as she stares back up at Molly, only to suddenly cock her head a bit and press her forehead to her tag partners.
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
REALLY?! You don’t know me! You can’t judge me like that! Who the fuck do you think you are? I’ve been in the business longer and won more gold than you ever have! You’ve got no right to talk to me this way!
She then shoves Molly back, forcing her to step awkwardly off the bench, showing off her amazing balance through quick recovery. The Ginger Ninja rolls her head and shoulders and steps right up.
MOLLY HATCHET
I have every fuckin’ right ta say this shite. Oh remember that tweet sayin’ I wouldn’t say this to yer face? I can and I fuckin’ WILL as I am right now!
Crystal doesn’t back down, only closing the gap between them. There’s a sly smile on Crystal’s face as she quirks a brow.
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
You’re just jealous that I got all these people that want to be with me, while you’re just a freckled has-been scraping by in both the biz and the bed, bitch. That’s all. You want what I got and can’t have it.
Suddenly Molly reaches up, grabbing a handful of Crystal’s top and yanking her down to her eye level. A wicked grin of her own spreads across her freckled face.
MOLLY HATCHET
Aye. I certainly long ta be tha laughing stock of tha internet and pro wrestlin’ who keeps her word about as long as a cup of milk in the open sun on a hot summer’s day in southern Florida. Yer a joke, Crystal, and a bad one at that. Ye’ll prove me right by stabbing me in tha fuckin’ back as soon as tha first opportunity presents itself. It’s all ye do. Betray and leave others fer dead.
Molly shoves Crystal back, sending her flailing over the bench, smacking her head against the locker. Her “partner” is left folded in half, sitting between both options in an awkward way.
MOLLY HATCHET
I hope ye prove me wrong, but either way, I’m prepared, Crys. You get ta choose whether it’s hell on Earth ye want fer 2022 or ta be left alone in your foul den of sex, lies, and bullshite because I donnae want anythin’ further ta do with ye after this match.
The Ginger Ninja promptly walks away, exiting the locker room and leaving Crystal with a great deal to consider.
TRIOS MATCH
#TBMCALI vs END TIMES
Patience and Sage opt to start off the match, exchanging insults that are lost in the roar of the crowd before they shift to wristlocks and then stiff strikes. Patience trips Sage but she rolls out of the way of a dirty mudhole stomping and dives into the corner for a hot tag to Willow! Patience armdrags Willow as she comes between the ropes, but she eats some serious forearm shivers and side elbow strikes that create space. Willow slithers out and grabs Patience from behind – BEARHUG THAT LEAVES HER DAZED AND WILLOW RAGDOLLS HER A BIT BEFORE TOSSING HER DOWN. Before she can catch her breath, Willow tries to take her over with a side suplex— no! Patience knees Dorn in the gut before dropping down and punching her in the knee, making her stagger back! Winters dives into her corner and makes the tag to Faith who springs over the ropes and just about decapitates Willow with a shoulder tackle. She falls and Faith pounces, choking her against the bottom rope. She tries to get a chinlock going but Willow escapes, bailing out to the floor. Faith smirks, gloating as she waits for Willow to return and the moment she does, they collide. Willow gets the upper hand in a test of strength, and they trade a series of speedy near falls before Willow manages to knee lift Faith away, creating enough space to make a tag to Sage. Faith slaps hands with Carmen and we've got fresh meat in the ring!
Reagan and Carmen collide, slaps and strikes flying. Carmen connects with a back suplex before attempting to hook in her Tijuana Hangover but they're too close to the ropes and Reagan escapes with a break. They're back to trading strikes before Reagan nails a vicious uppercut that snaps Carmen's head back. She screams and checks for blood, finding her lip's been split and Reagan comes in with a shoulderblock attempt – holy shit wheelbarrow facebuster out of nowhere and Reagan is down! Carmen slams a few knees into the face for good measure, looking for a little payback for the bloody lip – ankle hook and Carmen's on her ass in an instant with Reagan raining down the blows before the referee forces a clean break. Back on their feet, Reagan follows up with a short-armed clothesline and begins to stomp away on Carmen, even going as far as locking in a sleeper hold before Santana battles back to her feet, breaking free with a jawbreaker! She dives into the corner, slapping hands with Faith who comes in like a house on fire, snatching Reagan and hoisting her for a tombstone – RODEO DRIVER AND THE COVER JUST AS PATIENCE PULLS WILLOW AND SAGE OFF THE APRON!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): #TBMCALI
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
Hey Molly! Look I-
Molly thrusts a hand up at her.
MOLLY HATCHET
SHUT IT! Look I’ll team with just about anyone fer a match if need be, but there’s exceptions to tha rule and yer one of them. Yer a lyin’ sack of shite who has done nothing to earn either me trust or respect. I’ve watched ye hurt me friends across tha business fer years, play a wishy-washy numpty bampot cunt only ta’ suddenly stab even those closest to you, like yer own wives, in tha’ back and donnae get me started on yer personal life as I’ve seen it because we’ll be here all bloody night.
Molly steps up onto the bench beside them, adding an inch of height over Crystal so that she could look her more closely in the eye. Hilton-Zdunich glares daggers back at Molly, but allows her to continue just a little further.
MOLLY HATCHET
If ye’ fuck me o’er in any capacity at all, I swear to you that with e’ery fiber of my being I will rain down on you like Heaven’s fist of bloody judgement. I’ll beat ye through tha’ floor ye stand on, split tha Earth in half, and send ye flyin’ out tha other side ta fawkin’ China. This match be a one and fuckin’ done, yeah. Tha only way I wanna see ye again is across tha bloody ring from me as an opponent so that I can unleash every bit of this pent up rage I have against you.
Crystal’s fists clench as she stares back up at Molly, only to suddenly cock her head a bit and press her forehead to her tag partners.
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
REALLY?! You don’t know me! You can’t judge me like that! Who the fuck do you think you are? I’ve been in the business longer and won more gold than you ever have! You’ve got no right to talk to me this way!
She then shoves Molly back, forcing her to step awkwardly off the bench, showing off her amazing balance through quick recovery. The Ginger Ninja rolls her head and shoulders and steps right up.
MOLLY HATCHET
I have every fuckin’ right ta say this shite. Oh remember that tweet sayin’ I wouldn’t say this to yer face? I can and I fuckin’ WILL as I am right now!
Crystal doesn’t back down, only closing the gap between them. There’s a sly smile on Crystal’s face as she quirks a brow.
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
You’re just jealous that I got all these people that want to be with me, while you’re just a freckled has-been scraping by in both the biz and the bed, bitch. That’s all. You want what I got and can’t have it.
Suddenly Molly reaches up, grabbing a handful of Crystal’s top and yanking her down to her eye level. A wicked grin of her own spreads across her freckled face.
MOLLY HATCHET
Aye. I certainly long ta be tha laughing stock of tha internet and pro wrestlin’ who keeps her word about as long as a cup of milk in the open sun on a hot summer’s day in southern Florida. Yer a joke, Crystal, and a bad one at that. Ye’ll prove me right by stabbing me in tha fuckin’ back as soon as tha first opportunity presents itself. It’s all ye do. Betray and leave others fer dead.
Molly shoves Crystal back, sending her flailing over the bench, smacking her head against the locker. Her “partner” is left folded in half, sitting between both options in an awkward way.
MOLLY HATCHET
I hope ye prove me wrong, but either way, I’m prepared, Crys. You get ta choose whether it’s hell on Earth ye want fer 2022 or ta be left alone in your foul den of sex, lies, and bullshite because I donnae want anythin’ further ta do with ye after this match.
The Ginger Ninja promptly walks away, exiting the locker room and leaving Crystal with a great deal to consider.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
TRIOS MATCH
#TBMCALI vs END TIMES
Patience and Sage opt to start off the match, exchanging insults that are lost in the roar of the crowd before they shift to wristlocks and then stiff strikes. Patience trips Sage but she rolls out of the way of a dirty mudhole stomping and dives into the corner for a hot tag to Willow! Patience armdrags Willow as she comes between the ropes, but she eats some serious forearm shivers and side elbow strikes that create space. Willow slithers out and grabs Patience from behind – BEARHUG THAT LEAVES HER DAZED AND WILLOW RAGDOLLS HER A BIT BEFORE TOSSING HER DOWN. Before she can catch her breath, Willow tries to take her over with a side suplex— no! Patience knees Dorn in the gut before dropping down and punching her in the knee, making her stagger back! Winters dives into her corner and makes the tag to Faith who springs over the ropes and just about decapitates Willow with a shoulder tackle. She falls and Faith pounces, choking her against the bottom rope. She tries to get a chinlock going but Willow escapes, bailing out to the floor. Faith smirks, gloating as she waits for Willow to return and the moment she does, they collide. Willow gets the upper hand in a test of strength, and they trade a series of speedy near falls before Willow manages to knee lift Faith away, creating enough space to make a tag to Sage. Faith slaps hands with Carmen and we've got fresh meat in the ring!
Reagan and Carmen collide, slaps and strikes flying. Carmen connects with a back suplex before attempting to hook in her Tijuana Hangover but they're too close to the ropes and Reagan escapes with a break. They're back to trading strikes before Reagan nails a vicious uppercut that snaps Carmen's head back. She screams and checks for blood, finding her lip's been split and Reagan comes in with a shoulderblock attempt – holy shit wheelbarrow facebuster out of nowhere and Reagan is down! Carmen slams a few knees into the face for good measure, looking for a little payback for the bloody lip – ankle hook and Carmen's on her ass in an instant with Reagan raining down the blows before the referee forces a clean break. Back on their feet, Reagan follows up with a short-armed clothesline and begins to stomp away on Carmen, even going as far as locking in a sleeper hold before Santana battles back to her feet, breaking free with a jawbreaker! She dives into the corner, slapping hands with Faith who comes in like a house on fire, snatching Reagan and hoisting her for a tombstone – RODEO DRIVER AND THE COVER JUST AS PATIENCE PULLS WILLOW AND SAGE OFF THE APRON!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): #TBMCALI
CUT TO:
INT. BACKSTAGE -- CONTINUOUS
The scene opens up backstage where we see the Fitness Guru, and Uprising's self-proclaimed "Manager of Champions" MARISOL VILARO getting in a resistance band workout. Standing next to her is none other than CLIFF MORGAN. Marisol is dressed in her ref-inspired fitness gear with black shorts with white trim, black and white fitness top made by Vilaro Fitness. As Cliff and the camera get a good look, the fans are booing at the sight of her even though every flawless curve is on display.
MARISOL VILARO
How was that, babe?
CLIFF MORGAN
Amazing, you’re in such amazing shape, babe. This is such a big night for us. Not only do you referee the Main Event, but I get to teach Gaston a lesson he will never forget. Best streak in the company? I'm about to show that was only because I wasn't here.
MARISOL VILARO
No doubt about it.
CLIFF MORGAN
It's New Year's Day, and thousands are making resolutions. I know what most of them are. Can you guess, baby?
Marisol smiles brightly, as she has her hands on her hips.
MARISOL VILARO
That they don’t want to be fat, out-of-shape piles of goo anymore? Or they don’t want to look like they just did a whole bunch of meth? I mean those are the resolutions that most make but most don’t have the discipline or the system to meet those goals. A shame really, but that is why I created my patented Vilaro System. See, I helped my own brother lose over 100 pounds. Many thought he was a hopeless case, couldn’t get a girlfriend, was teased and made fun of in school, that was until I created my system! Not only did he lose the weight, he has kept it off. He was only the first success story, though. Standing next to me is another amazing success story: Cliff Morgan.
He would clap briefly, before pointing at the camera with a playful intensity.
CLIFF MORGAN
That's right, babygirl! Marisol helped get me stronger, faster, and in the best shape of my life. In twenty-one days, I'm taking on the the spotmonkey Barbie herself, Hayley Fien, for MY Silver State Championship? But, I hear you ask… Brotein shake? How can you say the title is yours already?!
He asks in a sarcastic and mocking tone to the crowd.
CLIFF MORGAN
It's all in a simple mental exercise. Visualize! Where I can see myself locking Hayley in the Gates of Shambalha. Then meditate, listen to the sounds of the inevitable victory. Listen to the sounds of the timekeeper announcing to the world… "here is your winner, AND NEW Silver State Champion… Cliff Morgan!" And then… make it a reality. Tonight is going to be the prelude. Tonight, I'm just warming up the fire because in twenty-one days, you will see yours truly defeating Hayley, keeping her locked down on the ground, melting her wings, because she had flown too close to the sun. I am the flame that brings her back to Earth, and I am the inevitable Silver State Champion.
Marisol smiles proudly as she claps for her man.
MARISOL VILARO
My Vilaro System changes lives because it provides the groundwork and foundation for success. All you have to do is follow it. Hayley, you want to call me shady? Me, a sweet innocent woman who would never do any wrong? Well, I’d worry more about what happens when Cliff gets you one-on-one in the ring. Everything Cliff said will be the result. Why? Because he has the tools, the foundation, the discipline to make it happen, something that all of you don’t. Have no fear! You can be better with my system. You might actually be able to make your New Year's Resolution a reality.
CLIFF MORGAN
Watch and learn tonight, Hayley. Watch what I do to that loser Gaston. Normally, Hayley, you can get it in four easy payments of $49.99, but, this lesson is on the house! Because when I get you in the ring, your ass is grass, and I'm the lawnmower!
Marisol can’t help but laugh as she takes a towel and begins to dab at her forehead even though she hasn't broken a sweat at all.
MARISOL VILARO
Of course, that will be no sweat, baby, because the Vilaro System is the key to being a better you!
The scene then fades to black followed by the Vilaro System logo appearing on screen along with the website address.
After the self-serving commercial is done, the view shifts to showing Hayley Fien watching on the monitors backstage. The look of disgust is clear on her features as she stares daggers at the screen, clearly not impressed with all the veiled threats towards her championship reign.
HAYLEY FIEN
The only thing I'll be watching tonight is the beginning of your downfall.
She turns and walks away as the view cuts to another Splat ad break.
_____________________________________________
MARISOL VILARO
How was that, babe?
CLIFF MORGAN
Amazing, you’re in such amazing shape, babe. This is such a big night for us. Not only do you referee the Main Event, but I get to teach Gaston a lesson he will never forget. Best streak in the company? I'm about to show that was only because I wasn't here.
MARISOL VILARO
No doubt about it.
CLIFF MORGAN
It's New Year's Day, and thousands are making resolutions. I know what most of them are. Can you guess, baby?
Marisol smiles brightly, as she has her hands on her hips.
MARISOL VILARO
That they don’t want to be fat, out-of-shape piles of goo anymore? Or they don’t want to look like they just did a whole bunch of meth? I mean those are the resolutions that most make but most don’t have the discipline or the system to meet those goals. A shame really, but that is why I created my patented Vilaro System. See, I helped my own brother lose over 100 pounds. Many thought he was a hopeless case, couldn’t get a girlfriend, was teased and made fun of in school, that was until I created my system! Not only did he lose the weight, he has kept it off. He was only the first success story, though. Standing next to me is another amazing success story: Cliff Morgan.
He would clap briefly, before pointing at the camera with a playful intensity.
CLIFF MORGAN
That's right, babygirl! Marisol helped get me stronger, faster, and in the best shape of my life. In twenty-one days, I'm taking on the the spotmonkey Barbie herself, Hayley Fien, for MY Silver State Championship? But, I hear you ask… Brotein shake? How can you say the title is yours already?!
He asks in a sarcastic and mocking tone to the crowd.
CLIFF MORGAN
It's all in a simple mental exercise. Visualize! Where I can see myself locking Hayley in the Gates of Shambalha. Then meditate, listen to the sounds of the inevitable victory. Listen to the sounds of the timekeeper announcing to the world… "here is your winner, AND NEW Silver State Champion… Cliff Morgan!" And then… make it a reality. Tonight is going to be the prelude. Tonight, I'm just warming up the fire because in twenty-one days, you will see yours truly defeating Hayley, keeping her locked down on the ground, melting her wings, because she had flown too close to the sun. I am the flame that brings her back to Earth, and I am the inevitable Silver State Champion.
Marisol smiles proudly as she claps for her man.
MARISOL VILARO
My Vilaro System changes lives because it provides the groundwork and foundation for success. All you have to do is follow it. Hayley, you want to call me shady? Me, a sweet innocent woman who would never do any wrong? Well, I’d worry more about what happens when Cliff gets you one-on-one in the ring. Everything Cliff said will be the result. Why? Because he has the tools, the foundation, the discipline to make it happen, something that all of you don’t. Have no fear! You can be better with my system. You might actually be able to make your New Year's Resolution a reality.
CLIFF MORGAN
Watch and learn tonight, Hayley. Watch what I do to that loser Gaston. Normally, Hayley, you can get it in four easy payments of $49.99, but, this lesson is on the house! Because when I get you in the ring, your ass is grass, and I'm the lawnmower!
Marisol can’t help but laugh as she takes a towel and begins to dab at her forehead even though she hasn't broken a sweat at all.
MARISOL VILARO
Of course, that will be no sweat, baby, because the Vilaro System is the key to being a better you!
The scene then fades to black followed by the Vilaro System logo appearing on screen along with the website address.
After the self-serving commercial is done, the view shifts to showing Hayley Fien watching on the monitors backstage. The look of disgust is clear on her features as she stares daggers at the screen, clearly not impressed with all the veiled threats towards her championship reign.
HAYLEY FIEN
The only thing I'll be watching tonight is the beginning of your downfall.
She turns and walks away as the view cuts to another Splat ad break.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
EXT. BARBARA BENNETT PARK
We cut to footage recorded earlier in the day. Engines roar two-ton rust buckets down the street at Coda’s back while she sits riverside on a rock with her legs crossed. The sunsets to her left in a captivating sight, her delicate features bathed in an orange glow mixed with the reflection of the blue sky against the Truckee River.
CODA
In season one, I was humiliated. Luther Thunder tore my ACL. I have spent the last three months rehabilitating, and still, it feels like there are improvements to be made.
The Korean-American keeps warm with a dark blue parka with a faux fur hood, dark pink bottoms, and comfortable blue dress sneakers. She doesn’t look into the camera as she recites her words. Instead, her black eyes sparkle off the water.
CODA
Even after I defeated Luther to become the SRW Ultimate Conquest Champion, there are some days where my joints hurt after a particularly hard-fought bout. Tonight will likely be no exception.
Her melancholy words continue as she brushes her dark brown hair out of her eyes, revealing red noise-canceling earbuds.
CODA
No matter how much I accomplish, wrestling will continue to chip away at me until I cannot do it anymore. Of course, I knew this from the beginning, but it is a fact of life that I cannot ignore now. What brings me solace is that others around me are going through the same thing. While mostly unspoken, co-workers of mine are undoubtedly dealing with their own physical setbacks that attempt to slow them down to a crawl.
Another pause is accentuated when a red light stops the gas-guzzlers from growling momentarily.
CODA
Except… Zoey Belle — my opponent tonight — does not fight through aches and pains as the rest of us do. In fact, she might enjoy it.
The light turns green, and the sound of cars continues.
CODA
Zoey has years of potential ahead of her. Vincenzo Riina’s hard-fought Total Anarchy Championship is in her sights, too. I respect her tremendously, and I firmly believe she will fill that super rookie role soon — just not tonight.
A cute smile crosses her face as confidence starts to ooze out of her lips. She’s finally looking at the camera now, standing upon the rock overlooking the river in downtown Reno.
CODA
I have been crippled by a kanabō, bloodied by steel chairs, speared through doors, left unconscious after a piledriver through a wooden desk, and shoved off the roof of a twenty-foot Hell In A Cell. She will have to outspeed me to take me down for even a moment, and that still might not get the job done.
Despite her energetic words, she speaks a bit coldly, yet her hands move in well-practiced overexaggerated gestures.
CODA
Zoey does not know pain, though she might think she does. Not yet. She is unaware of what it is like to wake up with a crook in her neck, or a sharp throbbing pain in her abdomen. She cannot comprehend what it might be like to compete against some of the best adversaries this planet has to offer as I have, so I will teach her. Then, I will go on to become an eleven-time champion — a lofty feat that relies on conquering Vincenzo afterward. Will it be difficult? Of course it will be. Both of them are formidable combatants in their own right, but I am prepared to get it done no matter who stands in my way.
Coda smirks as she eyes the camera again, tilting her head slightly as she crosses her arms smugly over her chest.
CODA
Then perhaps the Total Anarchy division will have some order.
With that, she walks away while the show carries on back at the arena.
CLIFF MORGAN vs GASTON GILLET
The bell rings and Gaston immediately takes control of the match with some well-placed chops and kicks against Cliff, sending him stumbling back into the corner. From there Gaston continues to show off his athletic skills and speed as he unleashes a fury of further chops in his best effort to weaken Cliff. Until Gaston takes a step back, preparing himself to go running, and Cliff catches him right in the face with two boots as he swings his entire body out in defense from the attack. Gaston falls back on the mat and Cliff is the one in control now as he unleashes punches right to the sides of Gaston’s head to let him know where he stands. Gaston makes an attempt to defend himself from the blows, but is swiftly locked into a cross armbreaker, which becomes his main focus to try to free himself from his current predicament. Arianna is screaming on the outside while Marisol is just watching on, the match going exactly how she had thought it would so far.
Cliff applies more pressure as Gaston struggles to get closer to the ropes to break the hold, but he is able to gain some momentum when he delivers a swift kick to Cliff which forces him to break the hold. Gaston uses the ropes to help pull himself to his feet and when Cliff decides to run towards where he stands, Gaston uses the ropes for leverage, sending Cliff flying through them allowing for him to hit the floor with a loud thud. This is the single funniest thing Arianna has ever seen and she laughs appropriately as Marisol goes to check on Cliff. This gives Gaston the opportunity to regain his strength as Cliff is slowly getting back up onto his feet, taking a moment to chat with Marisol to plan out their next move. Gaston allows for Cliff to get back in the ring, but when he does he soon regrets it as Cliff ducks under his grapple attempt and grips the Frenchman from behind for a quick releasing German suplex. Gaston starts getting to his feet and is planted face first from Cliff’s jumping DDT! Cliff can’t find the three count just yet though and picks up Gaston, taking a moment to blow a kiss at Arianna. This infuriates Manning and she starts screaming at Cliff who dismisses her, but as he’s setting up his Last Crusade, Gaston counters and flips Cliff out on his back. Vilaro walks over to Arianna and starts screaming in her face for cheating, and Arianna isn’t having any of that sass and pushes the fitness guru backwards. Marisol pushes back and Gaston tries to separate and calm the situation down. Arianna comes back with a two-handed push that knocks Marisol flat on her ass and seems pretty proud of herself, allowing for Gaston to get back to the match only to take a Superman Punch to the head! Gaston is unable to prevent Cliff from locking in his Gates of Shambalha and with nowhere to go, he’s forced to give up.
WINNER (VIA SUBMISSION): CLIFF MORGAN
CODA
In season one, I was humiliated. Luther Thunder tore my ACL. I have spent the last three months rehabilitating, and still, it feels like there are improvements to be made.
The Korean-American keeps warm with a dark blue parka with a faux fur hood, dark pink bottoms, and comfortable blue dress sneakers. She doesn’t look into the camera as she recites her words. Instead, her black eyes sparkle off the water.
CODA
Even after I defeated Luther to become the SRW Ultimate Conquest Champion, there are some days where my joints hurt after a particularly hard-fought bout. Tonight will likely be no exception.
Her melancholy words continue as she brushes her dark brown hair out of her eyes, revealing red noise-canceling earbuds.
CODA
No matter how much I accomplish, wrestling will continue to chip away at me until I cannot do it anymore. Of course, I knew this from the beginning, but it is a fact of life that I cannot ignore now. What brings me solace is that others around me are going through the same thing. While mostly unspoken, co-workers of mine are undoubtedly dealing with their own physical setbacks that attempt to slow them down to a crawl.
Another pause is accentuated when a red light stops the gas-guzzlers from growling momentarily.
CODA
Except… Zoey Belle — my opponent tonight — does not fight through aches and pains as the rest of us do. In fact, she might enjoy it.
The light turns green, and the sound of cars continues.
CODA
Zoey has years of potential ahead of her. Vincenzo Riina’s hard-fought Total Anarchy Championship is in her sights, too. I respect her tremendously, and I firmly believe she will fill that super rookie role soon — just not tonight.
A cute smile crosses her face as confidence starts to ooze out of her lips. She’s finally looking at the camera now, standing upon the rock overlooking the river in downtown Reno.
CODA
I have been crippled by a kanabō, bloodied by steel chairs, speared through doors, left unconscious after a piledriver through a wooden desk, and shoved off the roof of a twenty-foot Hell In A Cell. She will have to outspeed me to take me down for even a moment, and that still might not get the job done.
Despite her energetic words, she speaks a bit coldly, yet her hands move in well-practiced overexaggerated gestures.
CODA
Zoey does not know pain, though she might think she does. Not yet. She is unaware of what it is like to wake up with a crook in her neck, or a sharp throbbing pain in her abdomen. She cannot comprehend what it might be like to compete against some of the best adversaries this planet has to offer as I have, so I will teach her. Then, I will go on to become an eleven-time champion — a lofty feat that relies on conquering Vincenzo afterward. Will it be difficult? Of course it will be. Both of them are formidable combatants in their own right, but I am prepared to get it done no matter who stands in my way.
Coda smirks as she eyes the camera again, tilting her head slightly as she crosses her arms smugly over her chest.
CODA
Then perhaps the Total Anarchy division will have some order.
With that, she walks away while the show carries on back at the arena.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
CLIFF MORGAN vs GASTON GILLET
The bell rings and Gaston immediately takes control of the match with some well-placed chops and kicks against Cliff, sending him stumbling back into the corner. From there Gaston continues to show off his athletic skills and speed as he unleashes a fury of further chops in his best effort to weaken Cliff. Until Gaston takes a step back, preparing himself to go running, and Cliff catches him right in the face with two boots as he swings his entire body out in defense from the attack. Gaston falls back on the mat and Cliff is the one in control now as he unleashes punches right to the sides of Gaston’s head to let him know where he stands. Gaston makes an attempt to defend himself from the blows, but is swiftly locked into a cross armbreaker, which becomes his main focus to try to free himself from his current predicament. Arianna is screaming on the outside while Marisol is just watching on, the match going exactly how she had thought it would so far.
Cliff applies more pressure as Gaston struggles to get closer to the ropes to break the hold, but he is able to gain some momentum when he delivers a swift kick to Cliff which forces him to break the hold. Gaston uses the ropes to help pull himself to his feet and when Cliff decides to run towards where he stands, Gaston uses the ropes for leverage, sending Cliff flying through them allowing for him to hit the floor with a loud thud. This is the single funniest thing Arianna has ever seen and she laughs appropriately as Marisol goes to check on Cliff. This gives Gaston the opportunity to regain his strength as Cliff is slowly getting back up onto his feet, taking a moment to chat with Marisol to plan out their next move. Gaston allows for Cliff to get back in the ring, but when he does he soon regrets it as Cliff ducks under his grapple attempt and grips the Frenchman from behind for a quick releasing German suplex. Gaston starts getting to his feet and is planted face first from Cliff’s jumping DDT! Cliff can’t find the three count just yet though and picks up Gaston, taking a moment to blow a kiss at Arianna. This infuriates Manning and she starts screaming at Cliff who dismisses her, but as he’s setting up his Last Crusade, Gaston counters and flips Cliff out on his back. Vilaro walks over to Arianna and starts screaming in her face for cheating, and Arianna isn’t having any of that sass and pushes the fitness guru backwards. Marisol pushes back and Gaston tries to separate and calm the situation down. Arianna comes back with a two-handed push that knocks Marisol flat on her ass and seems pretty proud of herself, allowing for Gaston to get back to the match only to take a Superman Punch to the head! Gaston is unable to prevent Cliff from locking in his Gates of Shambalha and with nowhere to go, he’s forced to give up.
WINNER (VIA SUBMISSION): CLIFF MORGAN
CUT TO:
EXT. SOMEWHERE IN RENO
The segment begins with a black screen. It stays just like this for a few moments before a voice-over starts. It’s the voice of newcomer and newest fan favorite Zoey Belle.
ZOEY BELLE
So… I guess I should introduce myself, huh?
The black screen is replaced by a video of a band performing on stage. Zoey stands in the front, half singing and half screaming into the microphone as the band behind her plays heavy metal.
ZOEY BELLE
The name’s Zoey. I like writing and performing music as well as long walks on the beach! Or… something like that.
There’s a moment of silence before...
ZOEY BELLE
Anyway! I enjoy things other than music and clichés. Like, as I’m sure you’ve seen by now, I like to wrestle!
The scene cuts to Zoey’s match against Lil Juicy from the previous Revolution. Scenes of the pair exchanging shots, Belle hitting a suicide dive, And finishing off with Belle locking Juicy in her Grey Ballet finisher for the submission victory.
ZOEY BELLE
Surprisingly, though, I don’t like mixing my two professions, music and wrestling. So… don’t expect me in many… ugh… rap contests… in the future. No, when I’m in a wrestling ring, I am going to wrestle…
The scene shifts to video footage of Coda competing.
ZOEY BELLE
That brings me to you, Ms. Coda. You and I are set for a match where the winner receives a shot at the Total Anarchy championship. And… as much as I respect you, which is very much, I’m going to do everything in my power to beat you…
The voiceover ends as a live shot of Zoey, standing backstage in her gear. She wears a big smile on her face as she looks into the camera.
ZOEY BELLE
Coda, you’ve been in this business longer than I have. You’ve won championships and beaten the best wrestling has to offer, including the man who once held the top prize here in Reno. I studied your tape when I was training to become a wrestler. That’s all to say… I’m so excited to get in the ring with you! I get to compete with one of my absolute favorites in a number one contender match! It's… a bit of a dream come true.
Zoey looks down to the floor. When she looks up, her smile is replaced with a look of seriousness and determination.
ZOEY BELLE
Coda, I respect you, I like you. I hope that, when this match is over, we can remain friends. But I’m here to prove myself as a serious threat to this company. The same thing I was doing in my last match. I’m more than some musical act, here to sing and dance. I’m here to wrestle. I like you, but I’m going to win. And if I don’t, I want you to know that I will not give you an easy win. I won’t lie down and give you the victory. If you beat me, you will have earned it and I’m sure it will be the same if I beat you.
And finally, Coda, if I win, if I do go on to CANADIAN CHAOS and win the Total Anarchy championship, I will do everything in my power to pay it forward and get you a shot at the title. Because I respect you. Because I wish you nothing but the best. But with all that said, Coda, I need you to know that I am going to beat you.
She pauses for a moment to let that sink in.
ZOEY BELLE
Good luck, love. May the best woman win.
_____________________________________________
ZOEY BELLE
So… I guess I should introduce myself, huh?
The black screen is replaced by a video of a band performing on stage. Zoey stands in the front, half singing and half screaming into the microphone as the band behind her plays heavy metal.
ZOEY BELLE
The name’s Zoey. I like writing and performing music as well as long walks on the beach! Or… something like that.
There’s a moment of silence before...
ZOEY BELLE
Anyway! I enjoy things other than music and clichés. Like, as I’m sure you’ve seen by now, I like to wrestle!
The scene cuts to Zoey’s match against Lil Juicy from the previous Revolution. Scenes of the pair exchanging shots, Belle hitting a suicide dive, And finishing off with Belle locking Juicy in her Grey Ballet finisher for the submission victory.
ZOEY BELLE
Surprisingly, though, I don’t like mixing my two professions, music and wrestling. So… don’t expect me in many… ugh… rap contests… in the future. No, when I’m in a wrestling ring, I am going to wrestle…
The scene shifts to video footage of Coda competing.
ZOEY BELLE
That brings me to you, Ms. Coda. You and I are set for a match where the winner receives a shot at the Total Anarchy championship. And… as much as I respect you, which is very much, I’m going to do everything in my power to beat you…
The voiceover ends as a live shot of Zoey, standing backstage in her gear. She wears a big smile on her face as she looks into the camera.
ZOEY BELLE
Coda, you’ve been in this business longer than I have. You’ve won championships and beaten the best wrestling has to offer, including the man who once held the top prize here in Reno. I studied your tape when I was training to become a wrestler. That’s all to say… I’m so excited to get in the ring with you! I get to compete with one of my absolute favorites in a number one contender match! It's… a bit of a dream come true.
Zoey looks down to the floor. When she looks up, her smile is replaced with a look of seriousness and determination.
ZOEY BELLE
Coda, I respect you, I like you. I hope that, when this match is over, we can remain friends. But I’m here to prove myself as a serious threat to this company. The same thing I was doing in my last match. I’m more than some musical act, here to sing and dance. I’m here to wrestle. I like you, but I’m going to win. And if I don’t, I want you to know that I will not give you an easy win. I won’t lie down and give you the victory. If you beat me, you will have earned it and I’m sure it will be the same if I beat you.
And finally, Coda, if I win, if I do go on to CANADIAN CHAOS and win the Total Anarchy championship, I will do everything in my power to pay it forward and get you a shot at the title. Because I respect you. Because I wish you nothing but the best. But with all that said, Coda, I need you to know that I am going to beat you.
She pauses for a moment to let that sink in.
ZOEY BELLE
Good luck, love. May the best woman win.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. BACKSTAGE -- GM'S OFFICE
The scene opens up backstage where we see a smirking MARISOL VILARO stride into view, already decked out in tonight's fashionable zebra-striped fitness gear. The fans greet her arrival with loud boos. As she saunters toward a door that reads UPRISING GENERAL MANAGER: LARRY GOWAN. She soon knocks on the door with her well-manicured nails, before opening the door. There's a huge pop as the crowd sees the older gentleman in his chair in the office. Marisol doesn't wait for an invitation to enter. She just walks in with a bright smile plastered on her face.
MARISOL VILARO
I heard you wanted to see me? I mean it's a big night for sure: the first show of 2022, and the biggest main event in Uprising history.
The GM nods, moving to his feet as he grins right back at her.
LARRY GOWAN
Quite exciting to start off the year with the Uprising World Championship being defended. Absolutely, I wanted to see you. Touch base, as it were.
He clears his throat.
LARRY GOWAN
I saw the tweets. Wanted to make sure you knew that, even though I didn’t respond. Holidays and all, I'm sure you know how it goes, juggling--
Marisol cuts him off, interjecting proudly.
MARISOL VILARO
That I would be fair and call it down the middle? Don’t tell me you’re listening to the bitter slander coming out of Samantha Tolson’s mouth? I am the fairest of the fair and the match will be right down the middle. I would never want to jeopardize Mosh having a fair shot at the title, especially when he's been denied that time and time again.
LARRY GOWAN
Don't blame the sins of the previous administration on me. I'm doing my best to make sure that everyone gets a fair shake. As I'm sure you're aware.
MARISOL VILARO
We appreciate it. Giving him this opportunity, allowing him to choose his own stipulation; you have done something to correct the damage done. Now it's time for him to finish what he started. I have all the confidence in his abilities to get the job done.
Marisol has a huge smile on her face.
MARISOL VILARO
See, Mr. Gowan, I manage champions: people who can get the job done even with the odds stacked against them. Chris Mosh will prove that here tonight in front of the whole world and then he'll take the championship to Toronto and defend successfully against Griffin Hawkins. This is going to be a good year for The 1%. I can promise that.
LARRY GOWAN
It sure seems to be shaping up that way. I believe what you said on Twitter, Miss Vilaro. I can hear the passion and sincerity... that's why I wanted to speak with you, face to face. I just wanted to make sure that this wasn’t a huge mistake, putting my trust in you to get the job done fairly and without bias. Chris has been here since day one. He’s a talented wrestler…it’s just his personality that leaves much to be desired.
Marisol shakes her head, as she keeps her hands on her hips.
MARISOL VILARO
See that’s what I don’t get. Chris has been nothing but the sweetest since I been here. It’s your so-called nice guys and girls that have been rude, slanderous, and downright vile towards me, and him. If anything, if you got to know him, you’d realise how wrong you are with that last statement.
Marisol continues proudly.
MARISOL VILARO
Not only am I the best up and coming manager right now in the business, but you’re gonna find out I am a hell of an official, just like I am a talented wrestler in that ring. I am a triple threat. I have truly earned that MVP of wrestling award I was given.
The GM smiles, nodding.
LARRY GOWAN
Your clients are all thriving, there’s no doubt about that. I just hope when the dust settles tonight, that there are no questions and no asterisks beside the defense in the record books. Call it fairly, and you’ll be rewarded.
MARISOL VILARO
There won’t be, trust me on that. Chris Mosh will be that man. Ignis is tough and talented but Mosh is a step above. That is why I know I don’t need to help him win, to get ahead. He beat her once, and he can do it again.
Gowan looks like he wants to correct her on the finer details of that less-than-clean win, but he shakes his head instead and comes around the desk, a bright smile on his face as he holds out his hand to her for a shake. She takes it immediately and they shake firmly.
LARRY GOWAN
I appreciate you coming to talk this out. Glad we’re on the same page where this Main Event is concerned and I look forward to what the future holds for us both.
The cell phone sitting in the middle of his desk starts to ring, playing an instrumental version of "It Had To Be You". He snatches it up and turns away from Marisol, dismissing her.
LARRY GOWAN
Sorry. I’ve got to take this. If you’ll excuse me…
TOTAL ANARCHY CONTENDER
CODA vs ZOEY BELLE
Zoey charges in fearlessly but soon finds out that may not have been the best move as she's backed into the corner rather quickly, getting a count from the referee to break the collar and elbow. Coda backs away at four, surprised when Zoey slaps her across the face. Grinning on the heels of that wakeup call, Zoey backpedals and then nails a stunning question mark kick! Coda stumbles back into the turnbuckle but doesn't go down and Zoey backs off, bailing out of the ring to regroup. Coda immediately gives chase to try and grab her. Zoey rolls back into the ring, followed by Coda who immediately takes a knee to the back of her head! Zoey Belle has a grin on her face as she grabs the top rope for leverage, bouncing into the air before driving her knee in the side of Coda's head again. The Pint-Sized Kaiji crumbles to the canvas and Zoey grabs her, looking to capitalize on the advantage she’s created but doesn’t get a chance to as she eats a headbutt straight to the temple, knocking her back a few steps. Coda springs up and grabs her, pulling her in close with the Crescendo (tornado DDT into guillotine choke) but Zoey's close enough to flail at the ropes, clearly not realizing there are no breaks in a Total Anarchy match! Zoey fights to break free, using her grip on the rope for leverage as she twists and manages to wiggle free enough to launch an elbow into the side of Coda's head! The break sends both women back to their feet and Zoey backpedals into the ropes before coming back with a low dropkick to Coda’s previously injured leg, dropping her to a knee before following up with a snap DDT, trying to get the quick cover right there!
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
Coda kicks out with some authority and starts getting to her feet. As Zoey turns around, she walks right into a spinning spinebuster from Coda who doesn't capitalize on the momentum shift as she shakes off the cobwebs, clearly still feeling the effects of all those blows to the head. Coda gets to her feet first, but Zoey isn't far behind. Belle goes for some open palm chops but Coda fires back with a thrust kick to the back of Zoey's right thigh – Sonata Knee (running high knee to the head) and Zoey Belle hits the deck as dead weight. Coda goes for her patented arm triangle choke – ZOEY FIRES AN ELBOW INTO HER HEAD AND BREAKS THE HOLD! Zoey staggers back to her feet, dragging a stunned Coda with her and she tries to launch her at the ropes. It's reversed and Zoey gets tossed through, managing to skin the cat and land on the apron! Coda grabs her and yanks her through the middle rope, Zoey's feet by the ankles keeping her hanging off the ropes. Coda then lifts and drops with a devastating rope hung DDT! The crowd pops as Coda makes a cover!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): CODA
MARISOL VILARO
I heard you wanted to see me? I mean it's a big night for sure: the first show of 2022, and the biggest main event in Uprising history.
The GM nods, moving to his feet as he grins right back at her.
LARRY GOWAN
Quite exciting to start off the year with the Uprising World Championship being defended. Absolutely, I wanted to see you. Touch base, as it were.
He clears his throat.
LARRY GOWAN
I saw the tweets. Wanted to make sure you knew that, even though I didn’t respond. Holidays and all, I'm sure you know how it goes, juggling--
Marisol cuts him off, interjecting proudly.
MARISOL VILARO
That I would be fair and call it down the middle? Don’t tell me you’re listening to the bitter slander coming out of Samantha Tolson’s mouth? I am the fairest of the fair and the match will be right down the middle. I would never want to jeopardize Mosh having a fair shot at the title, especially when he's been denied that time and time again.
LARRY GOWAN
Don't blame the sins of the previous administration on me. I'm doing my best to make sure that everyone gets a fair shake. As I'm sure you're aware.
MARISOL VILARO
We appreciate it. Giving him this opportunity, allowing him to choose his own stipulation; you have done something to correct the damage done. Now it's time for him to finish what he started. I have all the confidence in his abilities to get the job done.
Marisol has a huge smile on her face.
MARISOL VILARO
See, Mr. Gowan, I manage champions: people who can get the job done even with the odds stacked against them. Chris Mosh will prove that here tonight in front of the whole world and then he'll take the championship to Toronto and defend successfully against Griffin Hawkins. This is going to be a good year for The 1%. I can promise that.
LARRY GOWAN
It sure seems to be shaping up that way. I believe what you said on Twitter, Miss Vilaro. I can hear the passion and sincerity... that's why I wanted to speak with you, face to face. I just wanted to make sure that this wasn’t a huge mistake, putting my trust in you to get the job done fairly and without bias. Chris has been here since day one. He’s a talented wrestler…it’s just his personality that leaves much to be desired.
Marisol shakes her head, as she keeps her hands on her hips.
MARISOL VILARO
See that’s what I don’t get. Chris has been nothing but the sweetest since I been here. It’s your so-called nice guys and girls that have been rude, slanderous, and downright vile towards me, and him. If anything, if you got to know him, you’d realise how wrong you are with that last statement.
Marisol continues proudly.
MARISOL VILARO
Not only am I the best up and coming manager right now in the business, but you’re gonna find out I am a hell of an official, just like I am a talented wrestler in that ring. I am a triple threat. I have truly earned that MVP of wrestling award I was given.
The GM smiles, nodding.
LARRY GOWAN
Your clients are all thriving, there’s no doubt about that. I just hope when the dust settles tonight, that there are no questions and no asterisks beside the defense in the record books. Call it fairly, and you’ll be rewarded.
MARISOL VILARO
There won’t be, trust me on that. Chris Mosh will be that man. Ignis is tough and talented but Mosh is a step above. That is why I know I don’t need to help him win, to get ahead. He beat her once, and he can do it again.
Gowan looks like he wants to correct her on the finer details of that less-than-clean win, but he shakes his head instead and comes around the desk, a bright smile on his face as he holds out his hand to her for a shake. She takes it immediately and they shake firmly.
LARRY GOWAN
I appreciate you coming to talk this out. Glad we’re on the same page where this Main Event is concerned and I look forward to what the future holds for us both.
The cell phone sitting in the middle of his desk starts to ring, playing an instrumental version of "It Had To Be You". He snatches it up and turns away from Marisol, dismissing her.
LARRY GOWAN
Sorry. I’ve got to take this. If you’ll excuse me…
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
TOTAL ANARCHY CONTENDER
CODA vs ZOEY BELLE
Zoey charges in fearlessly but soon finds out that may not have been the best move as she's backed into the corner rather quickly, getting a count from the referee to break the collar and elbow. Coda backs away at four, surprised when Zoey slaps her across the face. Grinning on the heels of that wakeup call, Zoey backpedals and then nails a stunning question mark kick! Coda stumbles back into the turnbuckle but doesn't go down and Zoey backs off, bailing out of the ring to regroup. Coda immediately gives chase to try and grab her. Zoey rolls back into the ring, followed by Coda who immediately takes a knee to the back of her head! Zoey Belle has a grin on her face as she grabs the top rope for leverage, bouncing into the air before driving her knee in the side of Coda's head again. The Pint-Sized Kaiji crumbles to the canvas and Zoey grabs her, looking to capitalize on the advantage she’s created but doesn’t get a chance to as she eats a headbutt straight to the temple, knocking her back a few steps. Coda springs up and grabs her, pulling her in close with the Crescendo (tornado DDT into guillotine choke) but Zoey's close enough to flail at the ropes, clearly not realizing there are no breaks in a Total Anarchy match! Zoey fights to break free, using her grip on the rope for leverage as she twists and manages to wiggle free enough to launch an elbow into the side of Coda's head! The break sends both women back to their feet and Zoey backpedals into the ropes before coming back with a low dropkick to Coda’s previously injured leg, dropping her to a knee before following up with a snap DDT, trying to get the quick cover right there!
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
Coda kicks out with some authority and starts getting to her feet. As Zoey turns around, she walks right into a spinning spinebuster from Coda who doesn't capitalize on the momentum shift as she shakes off the cobwebs, clearly still feeling the effects of all those blows to the head. Coda gets to her feet first, but Zoey isn't far behind. Belle goes for some open palm chops but Coda fires back with a thrust kick to the back of Zoey's right thigh – Sonata Knee (running high knee to the head) and Zoey Belle hits the deck as dead weight. Coda goes for her patented arm triangle choke – ZOEY FIRES AN ELBOW INTO HER HEAD AND BREAKS THE HOLD! Zoey staggers back to her feet, dragging a stunned Coda with her and she tries to launch her at the ropes. It's reversed and Zoey gets tossed through, managing to skin the cat and land on the apron! Coda grabs her and yanks her through the middle rope, Zoey's feet by the ankles keeping her hanging off the ropes. Coda then lifts and drops with a devastating rope hung DDT! The crowd pops as Coda makes a cover!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): CODA
CUT TO:
EXT. SOMEWHERE IN MISSOURI
The words PREVIOUSLY RECORDED flash across the bottom of the screen as SAMANTHA TOLSON walks slowly across a yard that seems to be in the middle of nowhere, dressed in a red and green Christmas sweater, a pair of solid black athletic pants and a simple set of white Reeboks. In the background is the sound of cows, making sounds cows make somewhere in the near distance, along with a beige farmhouse closer. All the telltale signs of a cattle farm are there, from barbed wire fencing to the faint scent of cow manure in the air.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Welcome to Missouri. Specifically, my brother Brian's cattle farm outside Wardsville. In the house behind me, my family and I are celebrating Christmas a little later than scheduled, and I admit that it's mainly due to my hectic schedule.
Samantha has a wry smile cross her lips as she walks slowly in the cool Missouri afternoon.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
So, Reno, I bet you're wondering why here. Why would I record my thoughts on our match ahead of time instead of delivering them moments before it. Well, the answer is, again, the hectic schedule. I've made it pretty clear on social media lately, so I'm not going to gloss over it again. But, I digress.
(quick pause for emphasis)
You see, Reno, you have a home city you're proud of, right? I do as well. It's just a few miles away, my hometown. Jefferson City, Missouri. Not exactly Boston, both literally and figuratively. Truth be told, Reno, they're nothing alike. Just like you and I.
Samantha reaches a wooden fence post, leaning back against it and gazing up into the cloudy sky.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
People here in the Midwest, Reno...pretty plain-spoken folk. A very what-you-see-is-what-you-get place. We say what we mean and mean what we say. There's no pretense or hidden meanings, just truth. No need for the self-inflating bullshit you've been spitting. See, Reno, here's the plain truth of the matter. If you happen to win this match it's a huge feather in your Red Sox cap. So you're trying to do anything you can to make what you know to be a tall task easier. Talking about the pictures, the match with Mosh. I mean, hell, despite the fact I've suplexed men twice your size, you even go so far as to claim my muscles are just for show.
Samantha smirks as she kicks at the ground a little, watching a small patch of brown grass waffle away in the breeze.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
You believe you can gain a mental advantage over me. Why not? It's worked for you in the past, hasn't it? The fact that you truly believe I'm on the same level as them is damn near cute. You've failed spectacularly, but the attempt is cute. Using ages-old tricks to try and throw me off my game, how would that fail? The difference between you and I, Reno, is the same as it is between Boston and Missouri. Every bit as wide and telling, too. Reno Nevada needs to take to social media to try and pump himself up while trying to pull others down, doing whatever he can to scramble his way past people to get what he wants. I don't need to do any of that. Unlike you, my track record speaks for itself.
Samantha stands back up slowly sauntering toward her brother's home.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
See, Reno, I don't imagine you know what it means to sacrifice, especially considering you hooked up with Vilaro and that ilk. What have you worked for, wanted so much that it was the singular focus of everything you do? I've left lovers, both man and woman. Ruined a marriage. Put these people…
A wave at the house punctuates Samantha's point.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
...in my rear view mirror more times than I care to count. All of it to chase down a champion's dream. Was it worth it? Absolutely. I'd do it all again in a New York minute. Because that focus has led me to a lot of things, foremost of them being one of the absolute best in the world, certainly one of the best in UPRISING. So this match means everything to you. Beating me is the signature victory you so desperately seek to validate everything you've done. To me, though? It's just another match against another blowhard.
She shrugs.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Doesn't mean you aren't skilled. I know better. Doesn't mean you aren't capable of beating me. I know damn well when you're on, you can.
Samantha looks at the camera, that trademark look of dead-serious painting her features.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
New Year's Day, though, isn't that day. You've allowed yourself to become too dependent on others to help you. You try to be the neighborhood bully, yet you've come across someone that will actually stand up to you, cut through all your manure, and see you for what you truly are: a desperate boy trying to forge your way into relevance into a world of capable adults.
She stares forward intently.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Today I celebrate with my family. In three days' time, Reno, I show the world the difference between us as professional wrestlers is just as wide and every bit as deep as the difference between Boston and Missouri.
Samantha turns and walks the few steps left to her brother's front porch, stopping to look at the camera one last time.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Show's over, Reno. January One, you're set to start off the year with a harsh dose of reality.
Samantha turns and opens the door, a genuinely happy smile across her face as she rejoins the family gathering.
_____________________________________________
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Welcome to Missouri. Specifically, my brother Brian's cattle farm outside Wardsville. In the house behind me, my family and I are celebrating Christmas a little later than scheduled, and I admit that it's mainly due to my hectic schedule.
Samantha has a wry smile cross her lips as she walks slowly in the cool Missouri afternoon.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
So, Reno, I bet you're wondering why here. Why would I record my thoughts on our match ahead of time instead of delivering them moments before it. Well, the answer is, again, the hectic schedule. I've made it pretty clear on social media lately, so I'm not going to gloss over it again. But, I digress.
(quick pause for emphasis)
You see, Reno, you have a home city you're proud of, right? I do as well. It's just a few miles away, my hometown. Jefferson City, Missouri. Not exactly Boston, both literally and figuratively. Truth be told, Reno, they're nothing alike. Just like you and I.
Samantha reaches a wooden fence post, leaning back against it and gazing up into the cloudy sky.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
People here in the Midwest, Reno...pretty plain-spoken folk. A very what-you-see-is-what-you-get place. We say what we mean and mean what we say. There's no pretense or hidden meanings, just truth. No need for the self-inflating bullshit you've been spitting. See, Reno, here's the plain truth of the matter. If you happen to win this match it's a huge feather in your Red Sox cap. So you're trying to do anything you can to make what you know to be a tall task easier. Talking about the pictures, the match with Mosh. I mean, hell, despite the fact I've suplexed men twice your size, you even go so far as to claim my muscles are just for show.
Samantha smirks as she kicks at the ground a little, watching a small patch of brown grass waffle away in the breeze.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
You believe you can gain a mental advantage over me. Why not? It's worked for you in the past, hasn't it? The fact that you truly believe I'm on the same level as them is damn near cute. You've failed spectacularly, but the attempt is cute. Using ages-old tricks to try and throw me off my game, how would that fail? The difference between you and I, Reno, is the same as it is between Boston and Missouri. Every bit as wide and telling, too. Reno Nevada needs to take to social media to try and pump himself up while trying to pull others down, doing whatever he can to scramble his way past people to get what he wants. I don't need to do any of that. Unlike you, my track record speaks for itself.
Samantha stands back up slowly sauntering toward her brother's home.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
See, Reno, I don't imagine you know what it means to sacrifice, especially considering you hooked up with Vilaro and that ilk. What have you worked for, wanted so much that it was the singular focus of everything you do? I've left lovers, both man and woman. Ruined a marriage. Put these people…
A wave at the house punctuates Samantha's point.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
...in my rear view mirror more times than I care to count. All of it to chase down a champion's dream. Was it worth it? Absolutely. I'd do it all again in a New York minute. Because that focus has led me to a lot of things, foremost of them being one of the absolute best in the world, certainly one of the best in UPRISING. So this match means everything to you. Beating me is the signature victory you so desperately seek to validate everything you've done. To me, though? It's just another match against another blowhard.
She shrugs.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Doesn't mean you aren't skilled. I know better. Doesn't mean you aren't capable of beating me. I know damn well when you're on, you can.
Samantha looks at the camera, that trademark look of dead-serious painting her features.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
New Year's Day, though, isn't that day. You've allowed yourself to become too dependent on others to help you. You try to be the neighborhood bully, yet you've come across someone that will actually stand up to you, cut through all your manure, and see you for what you truly are: a desperate boy trying to forge your way into relevance into a world of capable adults.
She stares forward intently.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Today I celebrate with my family. In three days' time, Reno, I show the world the difference between us as professional wrestlers is just as wide and every bit as deep as the difference between Boston and Missouri.
Samantha turns and walks the few steps left to her brother's front porch, stopping to look at the camera one last time.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Show's over, Reno. January One, you're set to start off the year with a harsh dose of reality.
Samantha turns and opens the door, a genuinely happy smile across her face as she rejoins the family gathering.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
VOODOO CHILD by JIMI HENDRIX is still wailing over the collective boos coming from the vast majority of fans in the ballroom. In the ring is Reno Nevada in his gear with a white fur coat draped down his body and leaning on that Irish shillelagh cane. In his other hand is a microphone. The music fades out but the jeers and obscenities continue to bear down on him.
RENO NEVADA
Ohhh boo boo boo. I don’t give a shit. Listen here, I got a bone to pick with all of you assholes and there ain’t enough air in your lungs to scream over this microphone!
The vitriol somehow gets even louder, drawing a half smile from the Boston wrestler as he looks around the ballroom while snapping a piece of gum.
RENO
I’m here to inform you that I have delivered a cease and desist letter to your city council, demanding that you forthwith, immediately AND without delay rename this dump of a city because I’m tired of you hick hillbilly racists running my reputation into the ground!
A sweep of the crowd shows rows and rows of faces, most of which are twisted by hatred, though there are a few here and there that are laughing it up.
RENO
I mean, if my name was Las Vegas, I’d be pretty happy. Bright light city gonna set my soul on fire? That’s me! I’m the brightest goddamn star in this sport, from UPRISING to PWV! You know what Las Vegas reminds me of? Every cool ass character Johnny Depp has ever played. Meanwhile this dump of a town is Amber Heard—batshirt crazy, domestically abusive, and just like her, when you shit the bed you blame it on the dog.
Reno looks around with a big ol’ grin on his face as many of the ringside fans look like they want to jump the barricade and come for his head. He cranes his neck around to look out over the sea of angry faces before making a jerk off motion with his hand.
RENO
If you all were any more pathetic, you’d be wearing Matt Knox t-shirts!
He waits a beat for the boos.
RENO
This whole town needs to be condemned, bulldozed, and the remains salted, because you’re nothing but Donald Trump humping assholes in cowboy hats. NEWS FLASH. THIS AIN’T THE WILD WEST. You’re not Wyatt Earp! You’re not even Kevin Costner in Yellowstone! You’re nothing more than an attraction for the Lake Tahoe yuppies to people-watch when they drive down from the mountains in their Teslas! Times up, morons! One way or another Imma drag you dumb shits into the 21st century!
CHASM by FLYLEAF blasts from the sound system. The building rocks when the fans see Sam Tolson walking down the aisle, ready to rumble in her ring gear. Halfway to the ring she stops and looks out at the cheering fans before bolting the rest of the way. She slides headfirst under the bottom rope, leaps to her feet, and immediately gets in Reno’s face.
He removes his fur coat and hands it to referee Stef Delano along with the microphone and shillelagh, who delivers it to the crew member outside the ring. The two wrestlers stand inches apart as their names are announced to the crowd. Delano then turns and signals the time keeper to hit the bell.
SAMANTHA TOLSON vs RENO NEVADA
They stand there eyeballing one another and talking trash. Reno has a few inches and several pounds on her, but Sam has faced bigger and with her dedication to strength and conditioning she can go toe to toe with anyone on any given night. They jaw back and forth. Finally, Reno holds his arms up and flexes, showing off the continued evolution of his physique which he attributes to the Vilaro System. The fans boo try booing him out the building despite the impressiveness of his muscle structure as he chains together several bodybuilding poses. Sam looks around the ballroom with a smile before holding her arms up. A massive pop erupts from the crowd as she flexes her biceps and those washboard abs. Like Reno, she moves from pose to pose.
Reno looks shocked and even a little hurt that these fans that he’s been trashing since hitting the ring are choosing to cheer on her body over his! He looks back at his opponent and starts again. Front double biceps! Side chest! Front archer pose! Once again, Sam matches him beat to beat, and each time she draws more and more support from the local fans!
Reno snaps and shoves her hard, sending her back several feet. Sam fires right back, throwing all her weight into the man’s chest, sending him pedaling backward with a look of surprise! He charges forward and throws a lariat. Sam ducks, moves around him and cinches his waist from behind. German suplex!
Reno lands on his upper back before flipping over on his stomach. He shoots back to his feet but Sam beats him to it. She throws a drop kick into his chest that sends him stumbling back into the corner. Sam is up, quick as a whip, and runs straight at him, nailing a hard back elbow across his face. She then backs up before throwing the first of several kicks that she calls the NIHON E NO ŌDO!!! Reno eats left and right kicks across his torso that slowly break him down one by one, until he ends up sitting on the mat against the middle turnbuckle! Sam walks a circle around the ring before turning and running right back at him. She launches herself feet first right into his face… but he ducks and rolls out of the ring! She flies into the turnbuckle then lands hard on the mat. He takes a breather on the outside to recover from those kicks before reaching under the rope and grabbing her by the hair. He drags her out and onto the floor before delivering several hard stomps, from her upper body to her legs.
After tipping his hat to the pissed off people at ringside, he picks her up before turning to whip her into the steel stairs. She thuds off the side then lands on the floor in a heap. He does the millionaire strut up and down ringside for several seconds until he notices Delano call out nine. He grabs Sam up, throws her into the ring and crawls in after her. After landing another couple stomps, Reno picks Sam up and sends her into the nearest corner. He immediately is on her, using the top rope as leverage as he stomps a mudhole in her gut, returning the favor from her kicks a few minutes ago.
Once she’s softened up, he throws her arms over the ropes. He cocks his hand back and slices it across the exposed skin of her chest above her top. She winces in pain and clutches herself. He throws her arms back over the ropes and howls out a brief little Justin Bieber song.
RENO
(over the crowd)
BABY, BABY, BABY OHHHH.
He delivers another knife edge chop across her chest. This one doubles her over and she stumbles out of the corner. Reno doesn’t even stop her, opting instead to continue his goading of the crowd. Behind him Sam stands up and kicks him straight into the back. He falls into the turnbuckle and spins around, but is unable to escape before she kicks him in the breadbasket. She then throws his arms over the ropes, reels back her hand, and NAILS him with a snapping chop across his pecs!
Reno yells from the pain. She cracks him again, and again, and AGAIN across the chest! He waves his hands for no more! Sam looks out over the crowd and cups her ear. They decisively call for more chops but when she turns back the Boston wrestler darts forward and lands a double leg takedown!
Reno postures up over her and starts throwing down bombs, showing off those MMA skills! Sam covers her face and moves to avoid many of the hammers reigning down on her. After surviving several seconds, he finally connects hard with a left! She might be out! Reno stands up. His chest is beet red and there’s even a long line of broken skin that’s seeping blood. He looks down at the damage and growls in anger. He starts arguing with Delano for not breaking the attack after four seconds. Delano defends her decision as he slowly backs her toward the ropes. Meanwhile Sam sits up to cheers from the crowd. She holds her jaw and touches the inside of her lip. She sees a bit of blood on her fingers. As Reno continues to argue with the referee, she pushes herself up and holds out her arms. The fans cheer as she runs up behind him, locks in a half nelson choke, then flips backward! NIGHTFALL (Kata Hajime Suplex)!!! She grabs a leg and covers him for the pin!
ONE!
TWO!!
THR… KICK OUT!!!
Sam looks a little surprised that he beat the count but doesn’t dwell on it. As she stands, she pulls him up with her, then gives him a few hard forearm shots to keep him dazed. He looks wobbly! She grabs his left arm, turns, and whips him into the ropes. She runs after him! He hits the ropes and she jumps into the air for MIND YOUR HEAD (Running V-Trigger Knee Strike)!
But Reno ducks! Back body drop! Sam goes flying over the top rope and lands with a sickening thud on the floor outside. He falls down his hands and knees, clearly still showing the effects of that suplex. He sits up and gives his head a shake in an attempt to clear away the cobwebs. He then drops down and rolls out of the ring. Sam is holding her left shoulder, indicating she might have landed a bit awkwardly. The show then goes picture in picture, with a replay in the lower right corner showing Sam land on that arm first before the rest of her crashes down.
Back to the action, Reno picks her up with a handful of hair. After looking around the ballroom, he scoops her up and SLAMS her HARD on the floor. He then holds up his arm and kisses his flexed bicep before doing a little shimmy dance. Delano calls out seven, prompting Reno to hoist Sam up on his right shoulder. He then walks over to the steel stairs and ascends them to the apron. He waits a beat, then takes off running down the length of the ring before dropping down… IRISH ROVER (Running Shoulder Breaker)!!!
Sam lands hard on his knee with that same hurt shoulder before flipping over and flopping onto the ring apron! Reno then ducks through the ropes into the ring. He waves on the crowd, feeding on their vitriol, before walking over to where Sam lays outside the ropes. He bends down, grabs her arm, and drags her from under the bottom rope into the ring several feet before dropping down for the pin.
ONE!
TWO!!
THR… KICK OUT!!!
Reno immediately jumps up and starts arguing again with Delano, this time over a perceived slow count. He slaps his hand quickly 1, 2, 3. The ref stands there stone-faced. In the background Sam has rolled onto her right side while grabbing at her left shoulder. Eventually Reno turns back and walks over to her. He kicks her a few times until she rolls onto her back, after which he places both his boots on her hair. He then reaches down, grabs her arms, and yanks them up! Delano starts the five count as Sam howls. Reno laughs all the way to four before he lets go. He then bends down to grab her by the back of her head but she wheels her right leg up and cracks him right on the top of his skull! Reno stumbles backward all the way to the corner. Sam rolls over and stands, though she’s still favoring that left shoulder.
She takes off running at him. A quick jump and she’s standing on the second ropes above him. She curls her right hand into a fist and starts smashing it into his forehead! Delano, not playing favorites, starts the count. Reno’s arms are hooked under the ropes, so he’s forced to eat each punch unblocked! Delano warns Sam just as she lands the 10th punch. The Missouri River Amazon drops down on the mat, grabs Reno by the arm, and whips him across the ring to the opposite set of turnbuckles. He bounces forward and walks down the length of ropes while holding his back. Halfway across, he drops down and rolls out to the floor. He gingerly rounds the corner and continues walking.
Sam takes the time to stretch her shoulder out. Eventually Reno climbs up onto the apron. Sam charges him before he can climb through the ropes… but Reno catches her running in with a forearm! He then grabs two handfuls of hair and drops down to the floor! Her throat drops across the rope before the momentum flips her backward onto the canvas! Reno stumbles away from the ring and over to the time keeper’s table where his belongings sit next to the bell. While Sam recovers in the ring, he reaches into the pocket of his fur coat and takes something out. It’s hard to tell what. Next he grabs that shillelagh before turning and marching back to the ring.
He rolls in and pops up. Delano is immediately in his face. She steals the shillelagh away from him while issuing a stern warning before walking past him to hand it back to the time keeper on the outside. Sam is on her feet and sees him coming. She runs at him and goes for a stiff clothesline. Reno ducks! Sam spins around! She doesn’t see the can he’s holding until it’s aimed at her face. A mist sprays in her eyes! She drops to her knees and tries wiping whatever it is away. Just before Delano turns to catch him, he tosses the can out of the ring.
A quick shot from a ringside cameraman shows the label which reads VILARO SYSTEM COLD MUSCLE SPRAY. Back in the ring, Reno has Sam back on her feet in a front face lock. He hooks a leg and twists! BOSTON MASSACRE (Swinging Neckbreaker)!!! Here’s the cover!
ONE!
TWO!!
THR… KICK OUT!!!
Reno can’t believe it! However unlike earlier he doesn’t waste time arguing the count. He jumps to his feet and runs his thumb across his throat before bending down to grab Sam by the hair. He pulls her up and turns her around until he’s facing the hard camera. He then yanks her back into a front face lock before hooking both her arms behind her back. He’s going to give her the ol’ WELCOME TO RENO, MOTHER FUCKER (Double Underhook DDT)!!!
CAUSE WHAT DON’T KILL YA MAKES YA MORE STRONG!
BROKEN, BEATEN & SCARRED by METALLICA blasts over the sound system and the crowd ERUPTS! All eyes move to the entrance and Reno is no exception. He even releases his hold on Sam, letting her fall to the canvas. He walks over to the ropes and starts waving his hand, daring Jack Moreau to bring his ass down to the ring for an ass whooping.
Unfortunately he doesn’t see Sam standing up behind him with fire in her eyes. The music continues to play for several seconds before cutting out completely. Reno looks confused at first, but quickly that is replaced with the realization that he just got played. Sam runs up behind him and hooks her arm around the front of his neck, forcing him to bend backwards. She then pulls him back from the ropes before snapping sidewalks, spinning them both to the mat. BEAUTIFUL OBLIVION RENDEZVOUS (Cross Rhodes)!!! She covers!
ONE!
TWO!!
THREE!!!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): SAMANTHA TOLSON
Her music blasts and Sam makes sure to take ample time to celebrate over the unmoving Reno as the crowd cheers her on.
CUT TO:
EXT. SOMEWHERE IN RENO
We head backstage where we see the esteemed Total Anarchy Champion, VINCENZO RIINA, standing with the belt over his shoulder, a hard glare on the camera. Beside him is the much smaller, but no less intimidating ISABELLA PAZZINI, who eyes the camera with a shit-eating grin.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
Hello, UPRISING. My name is Isabella Pazzini, six time world champion, former holder of the very belt you see on the shoulder of this fine specimen of a man right here. Those of you who’ve been keeping tabs on the old Internets may have seen me stirring up a hornet's nest or two a few states over... but I am not here tonight to talk about myself, as much of a hobby as it is of mine. Because as much of a beast, a legend and a pillar of this industry as I am, as much as my presence across the ring from an opponent causes both fear in their brain and brown stains in their pants... imagine how much those things are amplified when you face a monster who was able to vanquish such a legend as myself? I am one of the greatest wrestlers, greatest fighters this business has ever seen, and this man right here... THIS MAN... is one that I have employed for twenty years to PROTECT ME. How tough, how strong, how much of a violent vicious BASTARD do you have to be to be able to protect, to shield a motherfucking LEGEND like Isabella Pazzini?
She laughs.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
Trust me, that is something you do NOT want to discover first hand. But Coda, you are going to find out. You are going to find out REAL FREAKIN’ fast. And what THIS man can do...
She pats Vincenzo’s chest.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
...is much, MUCH worse than taking a spiked club to the leg. Hell, it’s even worse than what I did to UVR. What I WILL do to UVR. Because you see, what Luther Thunder lacks, and what I even lack is a true... KILLER INSTINCT. We have feelings, emotions... remorse. This man? He has no such weaknesses. When the bell rings, he will destroy all before him with reckless abandon, without mercy, without question. You saw what he did to me, a woman to whom he is very much indebted, a woman with whom he shares a deep personal bond. So ask yourselves, what would he do, how far would he go, against a no-name, irrelevant bitch like yourself?
She chuckles.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
Coda, you may think you are fighting for a prize, that you've just landed an opportunity. But the only opportunity victory will afford you is untold, unabridged, unadulterated DESTRUCTION. But don’t be too shocked, it is just the Sicilian way!
She gives the big man a little squeeze; his expression just glares through the camera, as we head to another advertising break for upcoming SplatTV content for the 2022 season!
_____________________________________________
ISABELLA PAZZINI
Hello, UPRISING. My name is Isabella Pazzini, six time world champion, former holder of the very belt you see on the shoulder of this fine specimen of a man right here. Those of you who’ve been keeping tabs on the old Internets may have seen me stirring up a hornet's nest or two a few states over... but I am not here tonight to talk about myself, as much of a hobby as it is of mine. Because as much of a beast, a legend and a pillar of this industry as I am, as much as my presence across the ring from an opponent causes both fear in their brain and brown stains in their pants... imagine how much those things are amplified when you face a monster who was able to vanquish such a legend as myself? I am one of the greatest wrestlers, greatest fighters this business has ever seen, and this man right here... THIS MAN... is one that I have employed for twenty years to PROTECT ME. How tough, how strong, how much of a violent vicious BASTARD do you have to be to be able to protect, to shield a motherfucking LEGEND like Isabella Pazzini?
She laughs.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
Trust me, that is something you do NOT want to discover first hand. But Coda, you are going to find out. You are going to find out REAL FREAKIN’ fast. And what THIS man can do...
She pats Vincenzo’s chest.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
...is much, MUCH worse than taking a spiked club to the leg. Hell, it’s even worse than what I did to UVR. What I WILL do to UVR. Because you see, what Luther Thunder lacks, and what I even lack is a true... KILLER INSTINCT. We have feelings, emotions... remorse. This man? He has no such weaknesses. When the bell rings, he will destroy all before him with reckless abandon, without mercy, without question. You saw what he did to me, a woman to whom he is very much indebted, a woman with whom he shares a deep personal bond. So ask yourselves, what would he do, how far would he go, against a no-name, irrelevant bitch like yourself?
She chuckles.
ISABELLA PAZZINI
Coda, you may think you are fighting for a prize, that you've just landed an opportunity. But the only opportunity victory will afford you is untold, unabridged, unadulterated DESTRUCTION. But don’t be too shocked, it is just the Sicilian way!
She gives the big man a little squeeze; his expression just glares through the camera, as we head to another advertising break for upcoming SplatTV content for the 2022 season!
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. BACKSTAGE -- GM'S OFFICE
We cut backstage inside of Larry Gowan's office, who appears to be on a telephone call. He doesn't really appear to be saying anything, but is listening intently. A couple seconds pass as we hear the door being opened, which prompts Larry's eyes to shift toward that direction.
LARRY GOWAN
I'm so sorry, but duty calls. Glad you called, though...
Larry ends the call a moment later, the camera swinging over to reveal GRAHAM CLAUSON has barged into Larry's office. Graham does not appear to be here for a social visit either.
LARRY GOWAN
So...what brings you barging into my office? I figured you at least know how to knock, but... how was your Holiday?
Graham appears to be completely caught off guard by this question, his expression almost speaking the words "Are you high?!" However, Graham shakes his head and continues without acknowledging or answering.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
You know I'm not going to sit here and accept a time-limit draw after you know Sam and I could've easily gone much longer than that bullshit time limit. It's almost like you did it on purpose.
LARRY GOWAN
Are you seriously going to suggest that I'm trying to hold you back? I thought you were past that!
GRAHAM CLAUSON
Bitch, please! You're not holding me back, you're clearly not the type to be a manipulative little shit. But, what you are doing is continuing to blue-ball me...unlike someone else we know...
Larry shakes his head, almost himself in disbelief.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
You saw the tweets, and you know exactly what I want. The fact I need to say it to you outright is somewhat insulting! Sam and I...we're not done, Larry. This isn't some blood feud or grudge, and this sure isn't some form of clout chasing. I don't need to beat Sam to prove anything to anyone, and she doesn't have to beat me to prove anything to anyone. At multiple times, that contest could've gone down in either direction and the fans didn't want some repeat of Panda Express. Plus, you know I'm not going to stop pestering you until you give me what I want.
LARRY GOWAN
And what exactly is it that you want, pray tell? Just so we're crystal clear.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
Tolson-Clauson II.
LARRY GOWAN
And how would it be any different than last time? You two were so even-
Graham cuts Larry off, clearly annoyed and not finished with this thought.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
It'll be different because we're not going to let some time limit dictate when the match ends. Sam and I deserve better than that, and you know it! If you're so scared about the damn runtime of the show, fine -- give us sixty minutes and I'll put down the extra cash to cover extra payout MYSELF if it has to be a Revolution episode! Hell, let me face her at Canadian Chaos!
Larry leans back in his chair, contemplating this suggestion as Graham continues his attempt to sway him.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
I'm not going to have some indecisive winner fuckery going down again, Larry! I had it, officially, with it then, and I still do now! She beats me, so be it. But I'm sure as fuck going to make her earn that W! This kind of bout should end with pinfall, submission, or referee stoppage that isn't caused by a clock!
Larry leans back forward, staying silent for a moment before replying.
LARRY GOWAN
You still have that same fire in your eyes now as you did then...and knowing her, she'll put ink down on that. We've got a bit more leeway with the Supershow, given that we're streaming on FiteTV now. You'll face her in Toronto, and I'll give you an hour and the headline slot before the Main Event. But after that, a draw is a draw. You got that?
Graham clenches his fists as he celebrates very briefly, smiling.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
About time you gave me some relief! Shit...
Larry chuckles at this, extending his hand towards Graham.
LARRY GOWAN
You can consider this a late Christmas gift.
Graham reaches out, shaking Larry's hand.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
Pleasure negotiating with you. Glad we could see eye-to-eye on this one!
As Graham releases Larry's hand, he begins to walk away. However, Larry's voice stops him.
LARRY GOWAN
Oh and Graham...?
Graham does not turn around, simply stopping in his tracks.
LARRY GOWAN
Your Uncle says "hello," by the way.
Graham does not move, simply inhaling and exhaling with audible annoyance. He then continues to leave without saying anything further, Larry simply smiling mischievously as the feed cuts.
NEW YEAR, NEW CHALLENGES TORNADO TAG
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH & MOLLY HATCHET vs AUSTIN DARCY & EMMA DOUGLAS
The four go to meet towards the center of the ring, but never make it to that as they all start going their separate ways. Crystal Zdunich punches Austin Darcy in the face and Molly charges Emma with a vicious clothesline. The taller Emma absorbs the attempt and delivers a STIFF European uppercut to Molly, knocking her back. Meanwhile Darcy responds to the jaw-busting punch by running forward for a front takedown. Crystal drops Darcy to the mat with a drop toehold, leaving the only man in the match grounded for the moment. Molly goes for a boot to Emma's stomach, but it's blocked and she scoops the Ginger Ninja up, pasting her down with Bedlam (side slam)! From there Emma quickly puts on a leg bar grapevine and twists Molly's leg, leaving her howling in pain and then Crystal kicks her in the back of the head for a nice save! It looks like it might turn into a double team but Darcy grabs Crystal Zdunich in a headlock and hoists her for a slam – REVERSAL MID-AIR INTO A NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX AND WE'VE GOT OUR FIRST PINFALL ATTEMPT!
ONE!
TW—NO!
EMMA DOUGLAS STEAMROLLS CRYSTAL, ALMOST TAKING HER HEAD CLEAN OFF HER SHOULDERS! She rolls through into a small package.
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
MOLLY WITH THE SAVE AS SHE SAILS IN FROM THE TOP ROPE, CRASHING DOWN IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CHAOS! Austin Darcy is waiting, and he hauls the Ginger Ninja off the pile and slaps her into a sleeper hold. After several seconds of struggling, Molly slips the hold just as Crystal slings Emma to the corner. Molly comes in for a flying body splash, but Emma moves, leaving nothing but turnbuckle for the tiny spitfire. Darcy decides to stalk Crystal, grabbing her from behind for what looks like a backdrop, but Crystal flips out from the move as Emma wrenches on a grounded front chancery to Molly. Crystal grasps Darcy from behind, and in a blink of an eye drops him with a swinging DDT, sending Darcy's neck crashing harshly to the canvas. Crystal tries to go for a cover right away, but Molly has now reversed out of the front chancery and has Emma in an arm wringer. As Crystal drops for the pin, Emma flips over, kicks her hand from her grasp, and then sweeps Molly to the mat. Molly falls back, crashing against Crystal, and breaking up the pinfall attempt! It's absolute chaos now as Crystal staggers up. She grabs Darcy, dragging him to his feet, only to level him yet again with a swinging neckbreaker. She drags the suffering Darcy back to his feet once again, sending him into the corner, following him in and looking for a spear – AUSTIN DARCY DIVES AT THE LAST SECOND AND CRYSTAL STUNS HERSELF, STAGGERING BACK RIGHT INTO EMMA DOUGLAS' PATENTED Death Rattle (Shining Wizard)! She crumbles and Emma gets wiped out with a Whiskey Bomb (Springboard Superwoman Punch) that sends her back into the corner, ripe for A Splash of Ginger (Stinger Splash) in the corner! Emma crumbles from the impact, eating a knee to the face before Molly gets pulled away by Austin Darcy. She ducks under a haymaker and a lariat before connecting with a throat thrust, leaving the big man gasping for air as he staggers back into Crystal's clutches!
Crystal smashes his face off the turnbuckle repeatedly, screaming like a banshee. As Darcy sags, Crystal hauls him upright by the hair and propels him towards Molly who's more than happy to nail him with a Glasgow Kiss (jumping head butt). Emma's recovered and she intervenes, going to snatch Molly as she lands but she spins and lashes out with a throat thrust – NO WAY! MOLLY GETS ASIAN MISTED AT THE SAME TIME THE STRIKE CONNECTS! She stumbles back, blinded and gets rolled up by Darcy, only to have Crystal jump off the second rope, nailing a kick to the shoulder on Darcy before the count can even start. He falls back, looking like his shoulder's been separated and Crystal uses his back as a springboard and nails Emma, tackling her right out of the ring. Molly pulls Darcy in and ties him up in The Hurt Locker (Marceloplata) in the middle of the ring. Darcy, howling in agony, taps out furiously.
WINNER (VIA SUBMISSION): CRYSTAL ZDUNICH & MOLLY HATCHET
LARRY GOWAN
I'm so sorry, but duty calls. Glad you called, though...
Larry ends the call a moment later, the camera swinging over to reveal GRAHAM CLAUSON has barged into Larry's office. Graham does not appear to be here for a social visit either.
LARRY GOWAN
So...what brings you barging into my office? I figured you at least know how to knock, but... how was your Holiday?
Graham appears to be completely caught off guard by this question, his expression almost speaking the words "Are you high?!" However, Graham shakes his head and continues without acknowledging or answering.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
You know I'm not going to sit here and accept a time-limit draw after you know Sam and I could've easily gone much longer than that bullshit time limit. It's almost like you did it on purpose.
LARRY GOWAN
Are you seriously going to suggest that I'm trying to hold you back? I thought you were past that!
GRAHAM CLAUSON
Bitch, please! You're not holding me back, you're clearly not the type to be a manipulative little shit. But, what you are doing is continuing to blue-ball me...unlike someone else we know...
Larry shakes his head, almost himself in disbelief.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
You saw the tweets, and you know exactly what I want. The fact I need to say it to you outright is somewhat insulting! Sam and I...we're not done, Larry. This isn't some blood feud or grudge, and this sure isn't some form of clout chasing. I don't need to beat Sam to prove anything to anyone, and she doesn't have to beat me to prove anything to anyone. At multiple times, that contest could've gone down in either direction and the fans didn't want some repeat of Panda Express. Plus, you know I'm not going to stop pestering you until you give me what I want.
LARRY GOWAN
And what exactly is it that you want, pray tell? Just so we're crystal clear.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
Tolson-Clauson II.
LARRY GOWAN
And how would it be any different than last time? You two were so even-
Graham cuts Larry off, clearly annoyed and not finished with this thought.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
It'll be different because we're not going to let some time limit dictate when the match ends. Sam and I deserve better than that, and you know it! If you're so scared about the damn runtime of the show, fine -- give us sixty minutes and I'll put down the extra cash to cover extra payout MYSELF if it has to be a Revolution episode! Hell, let me face her at Canadian Chaos!
Larry leans back in his chair, contemplating this suggestion as Graham continues his attempt to sway him.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
I'm not going to have some indecisive winner fuckery going down again, Larry! I had it, officially, with it then, and I still do now! She beats me, so be it. But I'm sure as fuck going to make her earn that W! This kind of bout should end with pinfall, submission, or referee stoppage that isn't caused by a clock!
Larry leans back forward, staying silent for a moment before replying.
LARRY GOWAN
You still have that same fire in your eyes now as you did then...and knowing her, she'll put ink down on that. We've got a bit more leeway with the Supershow, given that we're streaming on FiteTV now. You'll face her in Toronto, and I'll give you an hour and the headline slot before the Main Event. But after that, a draw is a draw. You got that?
Graham clenches his fists as he celebrates very briefly, smiling.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
About time you gave me some relief! Shit...
Larry chuckles at this, extending his hand towards Graham.
LARRY GOWAN
You can consider this a late Christmas gift.
Graham reaches out, shaking Larry's hand.
GRAHAM CLAUSON
Pleasure negotiating with you. Glad we could see eye-to-eye on this one!
As Graham releases Larry's hand, he begins to walk away. However, Larry's voice stops him.
LARRY GOWAN
Oh and Graham...?
Graham does not turn around, simply stopping in his tracks.
LARRY GOWAN
Your Uncle says "hello," by the way.
Graham does not move, simply inhaling and exhaling with audible annoyance. He then continues to leave without saying anything further, Larry simply smiling mischievously as the feed cuts.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
NEW YEAR, NEW CHALLENGES TORNADO TAG
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH & MOLLY HATCHET vs AUSTIN DARCY & EMMA DOUGLAS
The four go to meet towards the center of the ring, but never make it to that as they all start going their separate ways. Crystal Zdunich punches Austin Darcy in the face and Molly charges Emma with a vicious clothesline. The taller Emma absorbs the attempt and delivers a STIFF European uppercut to Molly, knocking her back. Meanwhile Darcy responds to the jaw-busting punch by running forward for a front takedown. Crystal drops Darcy to the mat with a drop toehold, leaving the only man in the match grounded for the moment. Molly goes for a boot to Emma's stomach, but it's blocked and she scoops the Ginger Ninja up, pasting her down with Bedlam (side slam)! From there Emma quickly puts on a leg bar grapevine and twists Molly's leg, leaving her howling in pain and then Crystal kicks her in the back of the head for a nice save! It looks like it might turn into a double team but Darcy grabs Crystal Zdunich in a headlock and hoists her for a slam – REVERSAL MID-AIR INTO A NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX AND WE'VE GOT OUR FIRST PINFALL ATTEMPT!
ONE!
TW—NO!
EMMA DOUGLAS STEAMROLLS CRYSTAL, ALMOST TAKING HER HEAD CLEAN OFF HER SHOULDERS! She rolls through into a small package.
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
MOLLY WITH THE SAVE AS SHE SAILS IN FROM THE TOP ROPE, CRASHING DOWN IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CHAOS! Austin Darcy is waiting, and he hauls the Ginger Ninja off the pile and slaps her into a sleeper hold. After several seconds of struggling, Molly slips the hold just as Crystal slings Emma to the corner. Molly comes in for a flying body splash, but Emma moves, leaving nothing but turnbuckle for the tiny spitfire. Darcy decides to stalk Crystal, grabbing her from behind for what looks like a backdrop, but Crystal flips out from the move as Emma wrenches on a grounded front chancery to Molly. Crystal grasps Darcy from behind, and in a blink of an eye drops him with a swinging DDT, sending Darcy's neck crashing harshly to the canvas. Crystal tries to go for a cover right away, but Molly has now reversed out of the front chancery and has Emma in an arm wringer. As Crystal drops for the pin, Emma flips over, kicks her hand from her grasp, and then sweeps Molly to the mat. Molly falls back, crashing against Crystal, and breaking up the pinfall attempt! It's absolute chaos now as Crystal staggers up. She grabs Darcy, dragging him to his feet, only to level him yet again with a swinging neckbreaker. She drags the suffering Darcy back to his feet once again, sending him into the corner, following him in and looking for a spear – AUSTIN DARCY DIVES AT THE LAST SECOND AND CRYSTAL STUNS HERSELF, STAGGERING BACK RIGHT INTO EMMA DOUGLAS' PATENTED Death Rattle (Shining Wizard)! She crumbles and Emma gets wiped out with a Whiskey Bomb (Springboard Superwoman Punch) that sends her back into the corner, ripe for A Splash of Ginger (Stinger Splash) in the corner! Emma crumbles from the impact, eating a knee to the face before Molly gets pulled away by Austin Darcy. She ducks under a haymaker and a lariat before connecting with a throat thrust, leaving the big man gasping for air as he staggers back into Crystal's clutches!
Crystal smashes his face off the turnbuckle repeatedly, screaming like a banshee. As Darcy sags, Crystal hauls him upright by the hair and propels him towards Molly who's more than happy to nail him with a Glasgow Kiss (jumping head butt). Emma's recovered and she intervenes, going to snatch Molly as she lands but she spins and lashes out with a throat thrust – NO WAY! MOLLY GETS ASIAN MISTED AT THE SAME TIME THE STRIKE CONNECTS! She stumbles back, blinded and gets rolled up by Darcy, only to have Crystal jump off the second rope, nailing a kick to the shoulder on Darcy before the count can even start. He falls back, looking like his shoulder's been separated and Crystal uses his back as a springboard and nails Emma, tackling her right out of the ring. Molly pulls Darcy in and ties him up in The Hurt Locker (Marceloplata) in the middle of the ring. Darcy, howling in agony, taps out furiously.
WINNER (VIA SUBMISSION): CRYSTAL ZDUNICH & MOLLY HATCHET
CUT TO:
INT. BACKSTAGE-- CONTINUOUS
The view shifts abruptly from Molly Hatchet's ringside celebration to find RICKY RHODES III backstage, his upper torso bare other than his gloved hands. He's throwing punches and kicks in the air. His hair is matted on his face as he leans in to the camera with a smirk.
RICKY RHODES
Every single opponent I have had in this business, in this profession has looked down on me. Not one of them has seen me as legitimate threat, yeah my whole presence and experience to this business has been of people who give me no credit, no respect not a single modicum of any kind of credit. My current opponent Graham Clauson, a veteran of the business and a legend in more than few standards has thrown shade and insult towards me. Making these ludicrous accusations that I was a gangster, that I was in cahoots with the mafia or some sort of a “Cosa Nostra” or being part of an organized crime family. What a joke! I am a kind man from Santa Clara in California. Does that even smell like anything remotely Sicily to you? I am not a Pazzini, my name is Ricky Rhodes III. Does not sound like any of the mobsters that you know, does it? Graham, the regular G-Man in more ways than one, right? You are going to come at me tonight for the show and...what was it “a leech up on the Pazzini legacy” was it?” I am not a Pazzini to begin with. I am a RHODES, the third by my name.. I am not a member of Organized Crime. I am not a member of La Cosa Nostra or whatever Gangster Outfit you assume me to be a part of. Sure I dress a bit better than my brethren at TRINACRIA but if my fashion sense insults you, that warrants you no issue of calling me out for what...being myself? We're barely into 2022. There's no need to set the tone in such a negative way.
The Santa Clara native leans up against what seems like an equipment box backstage.
RICKY RHODES
I respect you, Graham. I respect your accomplishments, I respect your years in the business. You are the one who claimed that the Pazzinis were a big thing back in the day, right? Maybe even during your father’s time? But Mr. Clauson, I am not a Pazzini. I am a RHODES the third of my name, not related to them by any sense of the meaning you might suggest. Yet here we are in a match where you are challenging me, threatening me and wishing me good luck. All in the the same lump of contradictions. Congratulations on that but you do realize that out of the two of us, I am the one who has least to lose, right? You are the veteran, successful in the past and looking to rebuild in this blessed New Year with only a single Uprising match to your credit.
He pauses.
RICKY RHODES
Have you considered what happens if you actually lose to someone like me? Someone you have mocked, ridiculed and treated the way you have going into this bout, making allegations with no basis of reality to begin with. Mr. Clauson, you be sure to bring me your best tonight. Bring whatever it is you can muster because there only so much distance clever jokes and insults will carry you. There have been plenty of folks who have come at me but none of them have been able to put me down for good. Many tried, failed and disappeared from the business altogether. I would certainly hate to see a similar fate befall someone of your stature. So, do you think you have what it takes or are you still obsessed over what happened in your last match to truly see the obstacle right in front of you?
He shakes his head, seeming disappointed.
RICKY RHODES
Bring me your best. Bring me your worst. Either way, I will still be here at the end of it all.
He strikes a fighting stance.
RICKY RHODES
Because I will show you no mercy.
With that Ricky Rhodes walks off and the show moves on to another advertising break for the upcoming original service MY UNDEAD DETECTIVE, starring Lex Collins, Everalda Cochrane and Jason Cashe, debuting on January 31!
_____________________________________________
RICKY RHODES
Every single opponent I have had in this business, in this profession has looked down on me. Not one of them has seen me as legitimate threat, yeah my whole presence and experience to this business has been of people who give me no credit, no respect not a single modicum of any kind of credit. My current opponent Graham Clauson, a veteran of the business and a legend in more than few standards has thrown shade and insult towards me. Making these ludicrous accusations that I was a gangster, that I was in cahoots with the mafia or some sort of a “Cosa Nostra” or being part of an organized crime family. What a joke! I am a kind man from Santa Clara in California. Does that even smell like anything remotely Sicily to you? I am not a Pazzini, my name is Ricky Rhodes III. Does not sound like any of the mobsters that you know, does it? Graham, the regular G-Man in more ways than one, right? You are going to come at me tonight for the show and...what was it “a leech up on the Pazzini legacy” was it?” I am not a Pazzini to begin with. I am a RHODES, the third by my name.. I am not a member of Organized Crime. I am not a member of La Cosa Nostra or whatever Gangster Outfit you assume me to be a part of. Sure I dress a bit better than my brethren at TRINACRIA but if my fashion sense insults you, that warrants you no issue of calling me out for what...being myself? We're barely into 2022. There's no need to set the tone in such a negative way.
The Santa Clara native leans up against what seems like an equipment box backstage.
RICKY RHODES
I respect you, Graham. I respect your accomplishments, I respect your years in the business. You are the one who claimed that the Pazzinis were a big thing back in the day, right? Maybe even during your father’s time? But Mr. Clauson, I am not a Pazzini. I am a RHODES the third of my name, not related to them by any sense of the meaning you might suggest. Yet here we are in a match where you are challenging me, threatening me and wishing me good luck. All in the the same lump of contradictions. Congratulations on that but you do realize that out of the two of us, I am the one who has least to lose, right? You are the veteran, successful in the past and looking to rebuild in this blessed New Year with only a single Uprising match to your credit.
He pauses.
RICKY RHODES
Have you considered what happens if you actually lose to someone like me? Someone you have mocked, ridiculed and treated the way you have going into this bout, making allegations with no basis of reality to begin with. Mr. Clauson, you be sure to bring me your best tonight. Bring whatever it is you can muster because there only so much distance clever jokes and insults will carry you. There have been plenty of folks who have come at me but none of them have been able to put me down for good. Many tried, failed and disappeared from the business altogether. I would certainly hate to see a similar fate befall someone of your stature. So, do you think you have what it takes or are you still obsessed over what happened in your last match to truly see the obstacle right in front of you?
He shakes his head, seeming disappointed.
RICKY RHODES
Bring me your best. Bring me your worst. Either way, I will still be here at the end of it all.
He strikes a fighting stance.
RICKY RHODES
Because I will show you no mercy.
With that Ricky Rhodes walks off and the show moves on to another advertising break for the upcoming original service MY UNDEAD DETECTIVE, starring Lex Collins, Everalda Cochrane and Jason Cashe, debuting on January 31!
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. ELDORADO CASINO -- BACKSTAGE
We head backstage, where we see the UPRISING Champion, "THE LUCHADORK" IGNIS. She pats the championship belt over her shoulder, before starting to speak.
IGNIS
A lot of people, when it comes to big matches, like to talk about "pressure". I’m not going to lie to you all, this championship defense against one Chris Mosh is THE most high stakes, high pressure match of my career. Not because Mosh is a legendary competitor, or some kind of wrestling oracle, no. Though I will admit right here, that he is a very tough and talented competitor, hell... he beat me three weeks ago, after all. But that isn’t the reason. Let me lay it out for you.
She shakes her head.
IGNIS
In my time here in UPRISING, not once have I claimed to be the best wrestler on this roster. But one thing I am, if show ratings and merch sales are anything to go by, is popular. I get the impression, that the people tuning in for these shows, and the fans who spend their hard earned money to come to the Silver State Ballroom... actually kinda like me being the UPRISING Champion, am I right?
We hear a huge roar of approval from the live crowd.
IGNIS
Okay, good! And as much as people want to bang on about who’s the best, win streak this, meritocracy that, blah blah blah, what actually brings fans into the area is the people. The personalities. And, no offense Chris, you have the personality of a dishwasher. Vilaro can spew all the incessant crap she wants, plug her Vilaro system and all that shit, but the fact is, on the mic, you have the personality of a kedavra. YOU SUCK. And to be honest, she can peddle the Vilaro system all she wants, but people like me & Gaston Gillet have WAY better looks and physiques than ANY of the clowns on the 1%er roster.
She grins.
IGNIS
So the pressure for me is... not being the person who let an uncool, despicable DOOFUS like Chris Mosh win the UPRISING Championship. Because... I mean, can you imagine such a world? Ratings would tank, the fans would be angry as hell, and forget main eventing a multi-fed show in the Acropolis, no-one would book Mosh to main event a show in a Tesco car park! Or... Walmart for you American viewers. My point is, the future of UPRISING, the chances of this fed becoming and staying as a major player in the future, is like... SOLELY down to me, right now. Because Mosh is a hateful, stupid, irritating doofus who couldn’t draw a dollar if you gave him a green crayon. So yeah. I got pressure. Big pressure. Pressure enough to crush coal. But guess what? I’m not coal. I’m the freakin’ Luchadork. And I didn’t go through all I went through, setbacks, disappointment, Luther’s shit, a hell match with Jack, a hell match with Samantha, I didn’t go through all that shit, becoming a COMEBACK STORY OF THE YEAR... hey Denzel Porter, how ya doing... just to drop this belt to a freakin’ braindead stupid motherfucker like Chris Mosh, I tell you WHAT! So we got this match tonight, and he can have Vilaro as the ref, and you may think it gives him the edge. But I’m taking a leaf out of my sister’s old tag partner, Kara Harrington’s book, because if I have to beat his ass so bad even VILARO is forced to call the match then SO BE IT. Because in all of my power, I’ll tell you what. If Chris Mosh takes the UPRISING Championship tonight, it will be from my COLD DEAD HANDS, because I could not live with myself if I let that arrogant, stupid, personality vacuum kedavra piece of SHIT represent THIS company with MY championship!
The crowd pops hard for that.
IGNIS
So Chris, I hope you picked a great stipulation. I hope Vilaro was telling the truth when she took to social media to declare how she's going to call a clean match. Because these fans deserve to see the best matches possible. And even if you’re not capable of delivering... don’t worry. These fans know the LUCHADORK will always pick up the slack! Enjoy your time in the main event... if I have a damn thing to say about it, it ends TONIGHT!
She drops the mic as the crowd cheers. She takes a moment to appreciate them, before we head back to ringside.
RICKY RHODES vs GRAHAM CLAUSON
The punk version of THANK YOU FOR BEING A FRIEND (the Golden Girls theme) is still fading out over the enthusiastic crowd as Ref Stef Delano calls for the bell. Immediately, both men circle each other before locking up. Clauson has Rhodes in a headlock as he throws him to the ropes but gets met with a dropkick that sends him back. The two collide again, exchanging strikes before Clauson nails a few huge open-handed slaps that leave Ricky's chest lobster red. He backs off, shaking his head while Clauson circles, rolling his shoulders. It's obvious that both men are itching for a win to kick off 2022. They lock up again in a test of strength, Clauson getting the upper hand before kicking Rhodes in the midsection. He goes for a gutwrench suplex – THRUST KICK AND A REVERSAL INTO A BACKSTABBER! HOLY SHIT! THE CROWD CAN'T BELIEVE IT AND RHODES PULLS HIM INTO STAY DOWN DAMMIT (School Boy Rollup With Tight Pulling)!!
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
CLAUSON KICKS OUT, ROLLS THROUGH AND APPLIES A FOREARM CHOKE AGAINST THE BOTTOM ROPE! Ref Stef forces a break and the pair reset again, much to the crowd's approval. Clauson charges at Ricky who reverses into a swinging neckbreaker. Clauson starts shaking the cobwebs loose as he's driven back to the mat with a sliding dropkick and a crotch stomp for good measure. Rhodes nails an elbow drop to the face and then grabs Clauson by the head, hauling him back to his feet with a headlock! Clauson elbows his way out and Ricky Rhodes erodes his vertical base again with Kreese Lightning (sweep the leg)! He dives in with a knee to the face and smothers Clauson, his feet on the ropes for leverage!
ONE!
TW—NO!
Delano notices the blatant cheating and stops the count, reading Rhodes the riot act who makes a big show of backing off. He turns around and right into The Avondale Experience (springboard European uppercut). Rhodes staggers back and before he can fall, Clauson's caught him with a lightning spiral! Holy shit! He goes to cover but then pulls Rhodes up by his hair to his knees – RUNNING METEORA! The crowd erupts!
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
Kickout by Rhodes and the tide keeps shifting between these two fierce competitors! Clauson stomps hard all over the Ricky. The referee pulls Clauson off and reprimands him as Rhodes rolls to the outside. Clauson goes after him, taking off with a running leap – FOSBURY FLOP PLANCHA TO THE OUTSIDE! Graham staggers up and pulls Rhodes up by the hair, sending him crashing against the apron. He runs in and eats an elbow – RHODES SLIPS AROUND BEHIND AND SMASHES HIS FACE OFF THE APRON THREE TIMES IN A ROW BEFORE FLINGING HIM AT THE BARRIER! Ricky rolls back in the ring, showboating as the referee starts to count.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Clauson starts to stir as fans lean over the barrier, patting him on the back. He shakes off the contact, pushing himself up on all fours.
FOUR!
FIVE!
SIX!
SEVEN!
Clauson rolls back to his feet while Rhodes stands in the middle of the ring, arms outstretched as he soaks up the crowd's outpouring of hatred.
EIGHT!
Clauson rolls back in, hoping to blindside Ricky but gets met with kicks until the last one gets caught! He spins Rhodes around into RESET Button (orange crush bomb) and hooks both legs!
ONE!
TWO!
THR- NO!
Rhodes gets the shoulder up at the last possible second. Graham Clauson takes control now though, hitting a copious amount of shoot kicks and thrusts which include another springboard European uppercut that lifts Rhodes off his feet. Clauson's feeling confident; he whips Rhodes to the ropes but he leaps over Clauson, rebounds and hits a tornado DDT. He quickly goes to the corner as Clauson begins to get up and hits a beautiful Boot That Sold The World (curb stomp). He hooks Clauson's legs.
ONE!
TWO!
SHOULDER UP!
Clauson saves himself! As he gets to his knees, he's nailed with a back leg strike that clearly rings his bell. He falls back and is pulled round, trapped in an ankle lock by Rhodes. Clauson tries to fight it but Rhodes tugs harder, pulling on the ankle, twisting it to the left and the right. Clauson's just about to catch the ropes but Rhodes pulls him back to the middle of the ring. It looks like Graham might tap out but instead he fights through the pain and eventually twists his body, bucking Rhodes off. Clauson limps to his feet, shaking the blood flow in his left ankle as Rhodes rushes him only to be met with a release overhead German suplex. Clauson follows that up with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker but he's not done there as Rhodes fights off the attempted pinfall cover. Clauson nails a few strikes to the face before taking the dazed Rhodes down with another RESET Button! He hooks the legs for the cover in the middle of the ring!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): GRAHAM CLAUSON
IGNIS
A lot of people, when it comes to big matches, like to talk about "pressure". I’m not going to lie to you all, this championship defense against one Chris Mosh is THE most high stakes, high pressure match of my career. Not because Mosh is a legendary competitor, or some kind of wrestling oracle, no. Though I will admit right here, that he is a very tough and talented competitor, hell... he beat me three weeks ago, after all. But that isn’t the reason. Let me lay it out for you.
She shakes her head.
IGNIS
In my time here in UPRISING, not once have I claimed to be the best wrestler on this roster. But one thing I am, if show ratings and merch sales are anything to go by, is popular. I get the impression, that the people tuning in for these shows, and the fans who spend their hard earned money to come to the Silver State Ballroom... actually kinda like me being the UPRISING Champion, am I right?
We hear a huge roar of approval from the live crowd.
IGNIS
Okay, good! And as much as people want to bang on about who’s the best, win streak this, meritocracy that, blah blah blah, what actually brings fans into the area is the people. The personalities. And, no offense Chris, you have the personality of a dishwasher. Vilaro can spew all the incessant crap she wants, plug her Vilaro system and all that shit, but the fact is, on the mic, you have the personality of a kedavra. YOU SUCK. And to be honest, she can peddle the Vilaro system all she wants, but people like me & Gaston Gillet have WAY better looks and physiques than ANY of the clowns on the 1%er roster.
She grins.
IGNIS
So the pressure for me is... not being the person who let an uncool, despicable DOOFUS like Chris Mosh win the UPRISING Championship. Because... I mean, can you imagine such a world? Ratings would tank, the fans would be angry as hell, and forget main eventing a multi-fed show in the Acropolis, no-one would book Mosh to main event a show in a Tesco car park! Or... Walmart for you American viewers. My point is, the future of UPRISING, the chances of this fed becoming and staying as a major player in the future, is like... SOLELY down to me, right now. Because Mosh is a hateful, stupid, irritating doofus who couldn’t draw a dollar if you gave him a green crayon. So yeah. I got pressure. Big pressure. Pressure enough to crush coal. But guess what? I’m not coal. I’m the freakin’ Luchadork. And I didn’t go through all I went through, setbacks, disappointment, Luther’s shit, a hell match with Jack, a hell match with Samantha, I didn’t go through all that shit, becoming a COMEBACK STORY OF THE YEAR... hey Denzel Porter, how ya doing... just to drop this belt to a freakin’ braindead stupid motherfucker like Chris Mosh, I tell you WHAT! So we got this match tonight, and he can have Vilaro as the ref, and you may think it gives him the edge. But I’m taking a leaf out of my sister’s old tag partner, Kara Harrington’s book, because if I have to beat his ass so bad even VILARO is forced to call the match then SO BE IT. Because in all of my power, I’ll tell you what. If Chris Mosh takes the UPRISING Championship tonight, it will be from my COLD DEAD HANDS, because I could not live with myself if I let that arrogant, stupid, personality vacuum kedavra piece of SHIT represent THIS company with MY championship!
The crowd pops hard for that.
IGNIS
So Chris, I hope you picked a great stipulation. I hope Vilaro was telling the truth when she took to social media to declare how she's going to call a clean match. Because these fans deserve to see the best matches possible. And even if you’re not capable of delivering... don’t worry. These fans know the LUCHADORK will always pick up the slack! Enjoy your time in the main event... if I have a damn thing to say about it, it ends TONIGHT!
She drops the mic as the crowd cheers. She takes a moment to appreciate them, before we head back to ringside.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
RICKY RHODES vs GRAHAM CLAUSON
The punk version of THANK YOU FOR BEING A FRIEND (the Golden Girls theme) is still fading out over the enthusiastic crowd as Ref Stef Delano calls for the bell. Immediately, both men circle each other before locking up. Clauson has Rhodes in a headlock as he throws him to the ropes but gets met with a dropkick that sends him back. The two collide again, exchanging strikes before Clauson nails a few huge open-handed slaps that leave Ricky's chest lobster red. He backs off, shaking his head while Clauson circles, rolling his shoulders. It's obvious that both men are itching for a win to kick off 2022. They lock up again in a test of strength, Clauson getting the upper hand before kicking Rhodes in the midsection. He goes for a gutwrench suplex – THRUST KICK AND A REVERSAL INTO A BACKSTABBER! HOLY SHIT! THE CROWD CAN'T BELIEVE IT AND RHODES PULLS HIM INTO STAY DOWN DAMMIT (School Boy Rollup With Tight Pulling)!!
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
CLAUSON KICKS OUT, ROLLS THROUGH AND APPLIES A FOREARM CHOKE AGAINST THE BOTTOM ROPE! Ref Stef forces a break and the pair reset again, much to the crowd's approval. Clauson charges at Ricky who reverses into a swinging neckbreaker. Clauson starts shaking the cobwebs loose as he's driven back to the mat with a sliding dropkick and a crotch stomp for good measure. Rhodes nails an elbow drop to the face and then grabs Clauson by the head, hauling him back to his feet with a headlock! Clauson elbows his way out and Ricky Rhodes erodes his vertical base again with Kreese Lightning (sweep the leg)! He dives in with a knee to the face and smothers Clauson, his feet on the ropes for leverage!
ONE!
TW—NO!
Delano notices the blatant cheating and stops the count, reading Rhodes the riot act who makes a big show of backing off. He turns around and right into The Avondale Experience (springboard European uppercut). Rhodes staggers back and before he can fall, Clauson's caught him with a lightning spiral! Holy shit! He goes to cover but then pulls Rhodes up by his hair to his knees – RUNNING METEORA! The crowd erupts!
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
Kickout by Rhodes and the tide keeps shifting between these two fierce competitors! Clauson stomps hard all over the Ricky. The referee pulls Clauson off and reprimands him as Rhodes rolls to the outside. Clauson goes after him, taking off with a running leap – FOSBURY FLOP PLANCHA TO THE OUTSIDE! Graham staggers up and pulls Rhodes up by the hair, sending him crashing against the apron. He runs in and eats an elbow – RHODES SLIPS AROUND BEHIND AND SMASHES HIS FACE OFF THE APRON THREE TIMES IN A ROW BEFORE FLINGING HIM AT THE BARRIER! Ricky rolls back in the ring, showboating as the referee starts to count.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Clauson starts to stir as fans lean over the barrier, patting him on the back. He shakes off the contact, pushing himself up on all fours.
FOUR!
FIVE!
SIX!
SEVEN!
Clauson rolls back to his feet while Rhodes stands in the middle of the ring, arms outstretched as he soaks up the crowd's outpouring of hatred.
EIGHT!
Clauson rolls back in, hoping to blindside Ricky but gets met with kicks until the last one gets caught! He spins Rhodes around into RESET Button (orange crush bomb) and hooks both legs!
ONE!
TWO!
THR- NO!
Rhodes gets the shoulder up at the last possible second. Graham Clauson takes control now though, hitting a copious amount of shoot kicks and thrusts which include another springboard European uppercut that lifts Rhodes off his feet. Clauson's feeling confident; he whips Rhodes to the ropes but he leaps over Clauson, rebounds and hits a tornado DDT. He quickly goes to the corner as Clauson begins to get up and hits a beautiful Boot That Sold The World (curb stomp). He hooks Clauson's legs.
ONE!
TWO!
SHOULDER UP!
Clauson saves himself! As he gets to his knees, he's nailed with a back leg strike that clearly rings his bell. He falls back and is pulled round, trapped in an ankle lock by Rhodes. Clauson tries to fight it but Rhodes tugs harder, pulling on the ankle, twisting it to the left and the right. Clauson's just about to catch the ropes but Rhodes pulls him back to the middle of the ring. It looks like Graham might tap out but instead he fights through the pain and eventually twists his body, bucking Rhodes off. Clauson limps to his feet, shaking the blood flow in his left ankle as Rhodes rushes him only to be met with a release overhead German suplex. Clauson follows that up with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker but he's not done there as Rhodes fights off the attempted pinfall cover. Clauson nails a few strikes to the face before taking the dazed Rhodes down with another RESET Button! He hooks the legs for the cover in the middle of the ring!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): GRAHAM CLAUSON
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- BACKSTAGE
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX leads a cameraman down a hallway to a door which is labeled 1% ONLY. Through the door we can hear a series of loud but muffled voices. It sounds like an argument. Then suddenly the door swings open and out walks RENO NEVADA in a shirt and jeans while wheeling a suitcase behind him. Before the door swings shut, we briefly catch Vilaro and Mosh standing inside the locker room. Both have looks of concern on their faces.
The reporter and camera move with Reno as he traverses the hallway. Gretchen holds the microphone up.
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
Reno, one second. After the controversial finish to your match earlier tonight, it sounded like you were arguing with your fellow One Percenters just now. Care to comment?
Reno stops and looks at her through a pair of dark shades.
RENO
I’m tired of his Jack Moreau bullshit. He cost me my match tonight! Didn’t even have to drag his ass down to the ring to do it. I’m sick and tired of the way things work around here. First I got screwed out of my Total Anarchy championship. Then tonight I got screwed by that asshole and all he had to do was play his shitty music. Metallica? REALLY? The only thing Broken, Beaten & Scarred are my eardrums by his terrible taste in music. I was disoriented!
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
To be fair, you were the one who sprayed Sam in the face with that cold spray.
RENO
(ignoring her)
All I know is, Mosh and Vilaro pissed that dood off and now he’s fucking with me. ME OF ALL PEOPLE. What did I do to him?!
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
You did sue him. You also got his old finisher banned.
RENO
Hello, Gretchen. That was like FOREVER ago. Get with the times. All this started because Mosh beat the dood for the Steinbrenner Cup. The man can’t handle it. It made him crazy or something so now he’s got it out for all of us. So you wanna know what I told Mosh just now? I told him to HANDLE HIS BIZ, BABY. Because this shit’s screwing with my flow. I’m a big star now, Gretchen, in case you hadn’t heard. Two and Oh in PWV. On my way to #3. Meanwhile here, all I get is screwed over, time and time again. Things are gonna change around here, Gretch. Whether you or Larry or any of these worthless assholes in the locker room like it or not. Either that or I’m Audie 5000 and you’ll never see Reno in this dump again!
Reno walks off, leaving Gretchen and the cameraman. The last thing we see is him kicking open a door and exiting out into the parking lot.
The reporter and camera move with Reno as he traverses the hallway. Gretchen holds the microphone up.
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
Reno, one second. After the controversial finish to your match earlier tonight, it sounded like you were arguing with your fellow One Percenters just now. Care to comment?
Reno stops and looks at her through a pair of dark shades.
RENO
I’m tired of his Jack Moreau bullshit. He cost me my match tonight! Didn’t even have to drag his ass down to the ring to do it. I’m sick and tired of the way things work around here. First I got screwed out of my Total Anarchy championship. Then tonight I got screwed by that asshole and all he had to do was play his shitty music. Metallica? REALLY? The only thing Broken, Beaten & Scarred are my eardrums by his terrible taste in music. I was disoriented!
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
To be fair, you were the one who sprayed Sam in the face with that cold spray.
RENO
(ignoring her)
All I know is, Mosh and Vilaro pissed that dood off and now he’s fucking with me. ME OF ALL PEOPLE. What did I do to him?!
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
You did sue him. You also got his old finisher banned.
RENO
Hello, Gretchen. That was like FOREVER ago. Get with the times. All this started because Mosh beat the dood for the Steinbrenner Cup. The man can’t handle it. It made him crazy or something so now he’s got it out for all of us. So you wanna know what I told Mosh just now? I told him to HANDLE HIS BIZ, BABY. Because this shit’s screwing with my flow. I’m a big star now, Gretchen, in case you hadn’t heard. Two and Oh in PWV. On my way to #3. Meanwhile here, all I get is screwed over, time and time again. Things are gonna change around here, Gretch. Whether you or Larry or any of these worthless assholes in the locker room like it or not. Either that or I’m Audie 5000 and you’ll never see Reno in this dump again!
Reno walks off, leaving Gretchen and the cameraman. The last thing we see is him kicking open a door and exiting out into the parking lot.
CUT TO:
INT. SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- VIP SECTION
UNKNOWN
Listen up idiots, mouth breathers, and virgins.
The camera pans up to see VANESSA PAGE in the VIP Section that is owned and operated by the One Percent, holding a microphone in her right and has her Trios Championship belt draped over her left shoulder.
VANESSA PAGE
I supposed you have all heard by now of the late breaking news that The Belonging got their ass kicked last night at the Eldorado Casino New Year’s Eve Party?
"DIAMOND PRINCESS" DANIELLE PAGE
(sarcastically)
And we cannot convey enough how much it saddened us when we heard this news.
"SPOILED" SUMMER PAGE
With them being put on the shelf it looks like we will be getting the night off in a few weeks at Canadian Chaos.
"DIAMOND PRINCESS: DANIELLE PAGE
That’s right, Summer. Since The Belonging were crippled last night and won’t be able to compete due to the crippling we are going to sit back, relax, and enjoy being the Uprising Trios Champions.
VANESSA PAGE
Don’t forget we will also be watching Mosh become the Uprising Champion in just a few minutes.
"SPOILED" SUMMER PAGE
Right?! How could we even forget that? Then after Mosh becomes the Uprising Champion we in the One Percent might just put Uprising on our backs and take the company worldwide because we have that kind of clout all over the world.
VANESSA PAGE
Then you can all say you witnessed Uprising from day one to the global phenomenon in its ascension to be with the One Percent at its helm.
"DIAMOND PRINCESS" DANIELLE PAGE
You are all welcome for being graced with the presence of us, Mosh, Mari, and Reno.
The crowd boos relentlessly at the name drops but the sisters don't seem fazed by it at all.
VANESSA PAGE
The only real question is where should we vacation while the rest of the roster are freezing in Canada?
"SPOILED" SUMMER PAGE
I am thinking somewhere warm. I am kind of over the snow and cold that Reno brings to us this time of year.
VANESSA PAGE
I know, right? Somewhere tropical—
Suddenly, PAST IN FLAMES by GREG DOMBROWSKI begins to play through the Silver State Ballroom when The Belonging are sprinting out of the entrance way through the crowd up to the VIP room that The Socialites are in. Vanessa slips out the back door of the VIP room just as The Belonging knocks down velvet rope. Danielle exits through the window that overlooks the crowd. Hayley grabs Summer by the hair as she tries to escape through the main entrance/exit of the VIP Room. Hayley rips the belt that is around Summer’s waist. Just then one of the security guards grabs Summer by the arm and yanks her out of the VIP room. Danielle, Summer, and Vanessa are retreating through the crowd. They make it to the entrance way as they huddle up together while Summer holds her head, seething.
"SPOILED" SUMMER PAGE
(throwing a tantrum)
Give me back my belt!!!
VANESSA PAGE
We are the champions. Not you low-class heifers!
As the crowd cheers for The Belonging, Hayley raises Summer’s Trios title belt in the air with a smile on her face.
_____________________________________________
MAIN EVENT: UPRISING CHAMPIONSHIP
MARISOL VILARO AS SPECIAL REFEREE
IGNIS (c) vs CHRIS MOSH
The crowd is hot as we finally get to the main event of the show for the Uprising championship. Tensions are high as Chris and Ignis meet in the center of the ring, some words being exchanged before Chris tries to throw the first punch, which is blocked and quickly reciprocated, knocking the challenger down on his back. The crowd erupts as the action picks up, Ignis attempting to mount Chris for some more rights and lefts, Mosh covering up as best he can before Ignis gets off to avoid the rather fast count that Marisol was giving, Chris getting a kick to the chest in there for good measure and allowing for him to get up to his feet, though when he does Ignis charges in and clotheslines her challenger up and over the top rope for him to crash down to the mat outside the ring.
Marisol comes over to check on her client but has to back away as Ignis leaves the ring and comes to get in her face, complaining about Vilaro showing obvious favoritism rather than counting out Mosh. Chris hits Ignis from behind and grabs her head, slamming it down on the ring apron, the most dangerous part of the ring as everyone knows. Chris then tosses Ignis into the ring and follows her back in, much to Marisol’s approval, Chris staying on the champ with a side headlock to wear her down. Vilaro gets in The Luchadork's face to see if she gives up to the simple hold, Ignis making it clear she doesn’t. Ignis fights back to her feet and sends Chris off for a ride, lowering her head and gets kicked in the chest for her troubles, Chris flattening her down to the mat with a leg lariat as Ignis stood back up. Chris hooks both legs.
ONE!
TWO!
THR—KICKOUT!
Mosh only gets a two, despite the slightly quicker than normal count. Chris grabs Ignis and brings her to her feet, knocking her back into the corner with multiple knife edged chops, grabbing her wrist and whipping her across the ring, rushing in to follow up. Ignis manages to use the corner to allow herself to jump backwards over Chris so the champ lands on her feet behind Mosh, Ignis rolling Chris up from behind but only gets a look from Vilaro who seems more interested in making sure her nails were perfectly manicured than she was at making the count. Ignis lets go of Mosh and as Chris gets to his feet, Ignis grabs his arms and spins him around, dropping him face first into the mat with her Into the Fire! Mosh looks out of it and Ignis rolls him over and hooks his leg, watching Marisol. She takes her time getting into a position to make the count, slamming her hand against the mat once….then twice….Mosh is still out, Vilaro knowing he’s done and rather than count the three, she lifts Mosh’ other foot and places it on the bottom rope! Ignis looks infuriated as Marisol calls off the pinfall and points to the leg like she only just noticed it. Ignis is getting fed up with this now and gets right up in Marisol’s face, demanding she does her job and not cost her the title with her diva antics. Marisol backs down, fearing Ignis’s wrath, though quickly springs towards her and pushes her backwards where Mosh is waiting for a roll-up!
Marisol can’t get on the mat fast enough, showing the speed that only a rigorous training system would account for but even with that quickness she can only slam her hand down twice before Ignis powers out. Mosh gets up and grabs Ignis’ hair to pull her up, but rather he goes down as she adjusts her weight and traps his arm with a cross armbreaker! Mosh tries to escape the hold but can’t and has to tap out, but rather than call for the bell, Marisol sticks her fingers in Ignis’ eyes and rakes them, forcing her to break the hold. The crowd is booing, some of them throwing trash into the ring as the Uprising champion gets to her feet and grabs Marisol, Vilaro struggling against her but Ignis grips her wrists tightly and spins her around, dropping her straight down on the mat nose first Into the Fire! The crowd erupts at this as Mosh is back up and hits Ignis with a super kick as she’s turning around, his arm hanging limp but that doesn’t stop him from dropping Ignis with a spinning neckbreaker! Mosh is quick to the outside, as quick as he can be anyway, thanks to that Vilaro System his stamina is through the roof and his hangtime in the air is impressive as he crashes down on Ignis with a 450 Splash! Mosh stays on top of the champ for his chance at winning the top gold off the original Uprising roster member but there’s no count. Marisol is out cold, security is at the top of the ramp keeping Cliff and Summer Page from interfering. Mosh goes over to check on Marisol, telling her it’s his chance to win and she needs to count it but she still seems completely out of it. Mosh tries picking her up but he’s grabbed from behind and dropped down hard with Ignis’ From the Ashes, the Firebird coming back in a strong way! Ignis pins Mosh and grabs Marisol’s hand, slamming it down on the mat three times and that’s good enough for the time keeper to ring the bell!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): IGNIS
Listen up idiots, mouth breathers, and virgins.
The camera pans up to see VANESSA PAGE in the VIP Section that is owned and operated by the One Percent, holding a microphone in her right and has her Trios Championship belt draped over her left shoulder.
VANESSA PAGE
I supposed you have all heard by now of the late breaking news that The Belonging got their ass kicked last night at the Eldorado Casino New Year’s Eve Party?
"DIAMOND PRINCESS" DANIELLE PAGE
(sarcastically)
And we cannot convey enough how much it saddened us when we heard this news.
"SPOILED" SUMMER PAGE
With them being put on the shelf it looks like we will be getting the night off in a few weeks at Canadian Chaos.
"DIAMOND PRINCESS: DANIELLE PAGE
That’s right, Summer. Since The Belonging were crippled last night and won’t be able to compete due to the crippling we are going to sit back, relax, and enjoy being the Uprising Trios Champions.
VANESSA PAGE
Don’t forget we will also be watching Mosh become the Uprising Champion in just a few minutes.
"SPOILED" SUMMER PAGE
Right?! How could we even forget that? Then after Mosh becomes the Uprising Champion we in the One Percent might just put Uprising on our backs and take the company worldwide because we have that kind of clout all over the world.
VANESSA PAGE
Then you can all say you witnessed Uprising from day one to the global phenomenon in its ascension to be with the One Percent at its helm.
"DIAMOND PRINCESS" DANIELLE PAGE
You are all welcome for being graced with the presence of us, Mosh, Mari, and Reno.
The crowd boos relentlessly at the name drops but the sisters don't seem fazed by it at all.
VANESSA PAGE
The only real question is where should we vacation while the rest of the roster are freezing in Canada?
"SPOILED" SUMMER PAGE
I am thinking somewhere warm. I am kind of over the snow and cold that Reno brings to us this time of year.
VANESSA PAGE
I know, right? Somewhere tropical—
Suddenly, PAST IN FLAMES by GREG DOMBROWSKI begins to play through the Silver State Ballroom when The Belonging are sprinting out of the entrance way through the crowd up to the VIP room that The Socialites are in. Vanessa slips out the back door of the VIP room just as The Belonging knocks down velvet rope. Danielle exits through the window that overlooks the crowd. Hayley grabs Summer by the hair as she tries to escape through the main entrance/exit of the VIP Room. Hayley rips the belt that is around Summer’s waist. Just then one of the security guards grabs Summer by the arm and yanks her out of the VIP room. Danielle, Summer, and Vanessa are retreating through the crowd. They make it to the entrance way as they huddle up together while Summer holds her head, seething.
"SPOILED" SUMMER PAGE
(throwing a tantrum)
Give me back my belt!!!
VANESSA PAGE
We are the champions. Not you low-class heifers!
As the crowd cheers for The Belonging, Hayley raises Summer’s Trios title belt in the air with a smile on her face.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
MAIN EVENT: UPRISING CHAMPIONSHIP
MARISOL VILARO AS SPECIAL REFEREE
IGNIS (c) vs CHRIS MOSH
The crowd is hot as we finally get to the main event of the show for the Uprising championship. Tensions are high as Chris and Ignis meet in the center of the ring, some words being exchanged before Chris tries to throw the first punch, which is blocked and quickly reciprocated, knocking the challenger down on his back. The crowd erupts as the action picks up, Ignis attempting to mount Chris for some more rights and lefts, Mosh covering up as best he can before Ignis gets off to avoid the rather fast count that Marisol was giving, Chris getting a kick to the chest in there for good measure and allowing for him to get up to his feet, though when he does Ignis charges in and clotheslines her challenger up and over the top rope for him to crash down to the mat outside the ring.
Marisol comes over to check on her client but has to back away as Ignis leaves the ring and comes to get in her face, complaining about Vilaro showing obvious favoritism rather than counting out Mosh. Chris hits Ignis from behind and grabs her head, slamming it down on the ring apron, the most dangerous part of the ring as everyone knows. Chris then tosses Ignis into the ring and follows her back in, much to Marisol’s approval, Chris staying on the champ with a side headlock to wear her down. Vilaro gets in The Luchadork's face to see if she gives up to the simple hold, Ignis making it clear she doesn’t. Ignis fights back to her feet and sends Chris off for a ride, lowering her head and gets kicked in the chest for her troubles, Chris flattening her down to the mat with a leg lariat as Ignis stood back up. Chris hooks both legs.
ONE!
TWO!
THR—KICKOUT!
Mosh only gets a two, despite the slightly quicker than normal count. Chris grabs Ignis and brings her to her feet, knocking her back into the corner with multiple knife edged chops, grabbing her wrist and whipping her across the ring, rushing in to follow up. Ignis manages to use the corner to allow herself to jump backwards over Chris so the champ lands on her feet behind Mosh, Ignis rolling Chris up from behind but only gets a look from Vilaro who seems more interested in making sure her nails were perfectly manicured than she was at making the count. Ignis lets go of Mosh and as Chris gets to his feet, Ignis grabs his arms and spins him around, dropping him face first into the mat with her Into the Fire! Mosh looks out of it and Ignis rolls him over and hooks his leg, watching Marisol. She takes her time getting into a position to make the count, slamming her hand against the mat once….then twice….Mosh is still out, Vilaro knowing he’s done and rather than count the three, she lifts Mosh’ other foot and places it on the bottom rope! Ignis looks infuriated as Marisol calls off the pinfall and points to the leg like she only just noticed it. Ignis is getting fed up with this now and gets right up in Marisol’s face, demanding she does her job and not cost her the title with her diva antics. Marisol backs down, fearing Ignis’s wrath, though quickly springs towards her and pushes her backwards where Mosh is waiting for a roll-up!
Marisol can’t get on the mat fast enough, showing the speed that only a rigorous training system would account for but even with that quickness she can only slam her hand down twice before Ignis powers out. Mosh gets up and grabs Ignis’ hair to pull her up, but rather he goes down as she adjusts her weight and traps his arm with a cross armbreaker! Mosh tries to escape the hold but can’t and has to tap out, but rather than call for the bell, Marisol sticks her fingers in Ignis’ eyes and rakes them, forcing her to break the hold. The crowd is booing, some of them throwing trash into the ring as the Uprising champion gets to her feet and grabs Marisol, Vilaro struggling against her but Ignis grips her wrists tightly and spins her around, dropping her straight down on the mat nose first Into the Fire! The crowd erupts at this as Mosh is back up and hits Ignis with a super kick as she’s turning around, his arm hanging limp but that doesn’t stop him from dropping Ignis with a spinning neckbreaker! Mosh is quick to the outside, as quick as he can be anyway, thanks to that Vilaro System his stamina is through the roof and his hangtime in the air is impressive as he crashes down on Ignis with a 450 Splash! Mosh stays on top of the champ for his chance at winning the top gold off the original Uprising roster member but there’s no count. Marisol is out cold, security is at the top of the ramp keeping Cliff and Summer Page from interfering. Mosh goes over to check on Marisol, telling her it’s his chance to win and she needs to count it but she still seems completely out of it. Mosh tries picking her up but he’s grabbed from behind and dropped down hard with Ignis’ From the Ashes, the Firebird coming back in a strong way! Ignis pins Mosh and grabs Marisol’s hand, slamming it down on the mat three times and that’s good enough for the time keeper to ring the bell!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): IGNIS
Summer and Cliff bust through security but it’s too late as Ignis rolls out of the ring and retrieves her title, getting the hard-earned win! Mosh is still down on the canvas, head in his hands and frustration written all over his face as Cliff slides into the ring, trying to rouse his beloved. Ignis backs up the ramp, keeping her eyes on The 1% that are in the ring as the crowd gives her a huge ovation for the successful defense and the last image we see is that championship belt draped over her shoulder before it cuts to show Chris Mosh's livid face at being outsmarted at his own game.
_____________________________________________
© UPRISING 2022
____________________________________________
QUICKIE RESULTS:
BRANDON MERCER vs CLYDE CHENEY (NO CONTEST)
LIL JUICY vs AZURINE VEBBINS
#TBMCALI vs END TIMES
CLIFF MORGAN vs GASTON GILLET
CODA vs ZOEY BELLE
SAMANTHA TOLSON vs RENO NEVADA
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH & MOLLY HATCHET vs AUSTIN DARCY & EMMA DOUGLAS
RICKY RHODES vs GRAHAM CLAUSON
IGNIS (c) vs CHRIS MOSH
