John Helms
(EAW intro plays.)
(The camera opens to a recap of Voltage’s events at Grand Rampage. Effy McAvoy retains her New Breed Championship, Selina Reyes comes up short against Brianna Hill, Dr. Bethany Blue becomes the new Hardcore Champion, Limmy Monaghan defeats Xander Payne, Methuselah defeats KASAI, the British Invasion retain the Unified Tag Team Championships against Elysium, Bea Valentine defeats Caroline to keep the Universal Women’s Championship, and Michael Machina holds onto the EAW World Championship. As well as this, Voltage’s highlights of the Grand Rampage match are shown, with Adam Lucas making it to the final two. After this the recap ends and the camera opens up to the Utilita Arena Newcastle in Newcastle, England. The fans in attendance cheer, and as always pyro shoots from the stage. After this, the camera cuts to the commentary table where Rich Russillo and Persephone are seen.)
Rich Russillo: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to Sunday Night Voltage! I’m Rich Russillo here with Persephone Tsitsipas, and with an amazing Grand Rampage in the books, we’re now on the road to not just Fighting Spirit, but to Pain for Pride!
Persephone: Grand Rampage was a total waste of time, so hopefully everything afterwards is a bit more interesting. I don’t have much hope though.
Rich Russillo: Well I think we have a great show ahead of us, which is main evented by Limmy Monaghan versus Candice Blair! Let’s not waste anymore time, and get right to it!
(‘Self Help Tape’ by Moses Sumney hits, and the fans in attendance begin to loudly cheer as the camera pans towards the stage. The cheers continue, as Captain Charisma begins to make his way out to the stage, staring towards the fans in attendance with a smile on his face. The Voltage Commissioner is holding a microphone in his hand, and after a moment he begins to make his way down the ramp and towards the ring.)
Rich Russillo: Here comes Captain Charisma, and it’s good to see the Commissioner of this brand after an incredible Grand Rampage event!
Persephone: No it isn’t. He has a microphone in his hand so he’s obviously gonna talk, and I just don’t see him saying anything interesting right now. Unless….
Rich Russillo: Unless?
Persephone: Do you think he’s bringing Luis back to Voltage?
Rich Russillo: No. I don’t think that’s happening.
(Captain Charisma makes his way to ringside, and walks up the steel steps before finally entering the ring. His entrance music begins to fade out after this, and as the fans continue to cheer, he begins to speak.)
Captain Charisma: Ladies and gentlemen… Welcome to Sunday Night Voltage!
(The fans continue to cheer and Captain Charisma looks happy to see this, but after a moment, a more serious look begins to appear on his face.)
Captain Charisma: I’m sure we all enjoyed what was an incredible Grand Rampage event. As always this event brought out the best of the EAW roster, and I’m glad to see the Elitists of Voltage at their best heading towards Pain for Pride. However, tonight I’m here to address something that took place on the show, as while I enjoyed seeing what Grand Rampage had to offer, I think it’s about time to do something about two Elitists who have been at each other’s throats for far too long now. Pain for Pride is only in a few short months and with that will be the end of season 18, and the last thing I need to do is watch this season end with two of the most talented Elitists on this brand continuing to get in not only each other’s way, but in the way of this show.
Captain Charisma: With that being said, Adam Lucas, Jake Smith, I am tired of everything going on between the two of you. This started back at the very beginning of the season. We should be past this by now. You should both be ready to move on, yet instead there you were at Grand Rampage worrying more about each other than about Pain for Pride. Jake, Adam, I need you two to come to the ring right now. We’re going to settle this right now.
(A few moments pass, before finally ‘Everybody Knows (Unstoppable)’ by Royal Deluxe hits. The fans begin to boo, and the camera fades towards the stage as Adam Lucas begins to make his way out to the stage, holding a microphone in his hand. Adam doesn’t look too pleased following his loss in the Grand Rampage match, but he doesn’t spend too much time on the stage, beginning to make his way down the ramp and towards the ring.)
Rich Russillo: Well it looks like Captain Charisma has had enough of the antics between Jake Smith and Adam Lucas, and I can’t say I’m too surprised by this seeing everything that has happened between the two.
Persephone: Well I had to watch Jake act like an idiot in the Grand Rampage match, so I guess it’s about time Captain Charisma does something about it.
Rich Russillo: Adam is on his way to the ring, and in a few moments I believe Jake will also have to make his way out. With that in mind, I wonder what it is Captain Charisma plans to do.
(Adam Lucas makes his way into the ring, and ‘Everybody Knows (Unstoppable)’ begins to fade out. Captain Charisma waits after this, waiting for the other Elitist who he called out. Adam Lucas just shakes his head, not amused with all of this, but after some time ‘Stop Breathing’ by Playboi Carti hits. This causes the boos to continue, and Adam Lucas stares directly towards the stage as Jake Smith slowly begins to walk out. Jake looks a bit confused as to why he’s been called out, but he just shrugs before beginning to make his way down the ramp, holding a microphone in his hand.)
Rich Russillo: Jake Smith is on his way to the ring now, and seeing his antics during the Grand Rampage match I can see why Captain Charisma has had enough of this.
Persephone: I don’t know what that “Money Dance” was, but I’d rather not see it ever again.
Rich Russillo: Well it wasn’t just that, either. Jake stuck around at ringside after being eliminated, clearly hoping to see Adam fail. These two have put each other through a lot this season, so I’m not surprised that Captain Charisma is ready to end this.
(Jake Smith walks up the steel steps and stands on the apron. He doesn’t look too pleased to have to share the ring with Adam right now, but he reluctantly enters the ring as his entrance music fades out. After this, Captain Charisma begins to speak.)
Captain Charisma: I’m sure the two of you know exactly why you’re out here, so let me just get to the point. We’re too close to Pain for Pride for us to still be forced to put up with whatever petty issues the two of you still have with each other at this point of the season. I thought you guys had more than enough time to sort this all out after you’ve spent the season facing each other in World Championship matches, the King of Elite tournament and now even the Grand Rampage match, but clearly that’s not the case and that’s a problem. I’m sick and I am tired of this behavior from two of the best Voltage has to offer, and that’s especially the case when it comes to you, Jake.
(Hearing this catches the attention of Jake, who looks at Captain Charisma with an offended look on his face.)
Jake Smith: Me?? What did I do? I didn’t even want to be in the Grand Rampage match, remember? You’re the one that forced me to compete in it, all so I could get screwed over when I should be heading to a Pain for Pride main event right now! I didn’t do anything wro-
Captain Charisma: No, that’s enough from you Jake. This is exactly what I’m talking about, and it’s exactly why I didn’t allow you to back out of the Grand Rampage match in the first place. I’m tired of you acting like a baby, Jake. You did it back when you thought I’d just give you an EAW World Championship match for no reason and had to settle for the Grand Rampage. You did it when you thought I’d take you out of the Grand Rampage just a week before the show, and now you did it once again after you couldn’t get your way in the Grand Rampage match. It’s getting old Jake, and don’t even think I need to mention your reaction when Adam Lucas got eliminated from the match. This isn’t the first time you were a member of the Voltage roster Jake, so by this point you should already know that I’m not just going to let people think they can do whatever they want. This show is not your own personal playground, and I think both of you need to remember that.
Adam Lucas: Alright, great. So why did you call the both of us out here when we both know that Jake is the problem?
Captain Charisma: I called the two of you out here because it’s pretty clear to me that at this point, you don’t plan to stop. You two can’t co-exist on the same brand anymore, and since we’re approaching the end of the season I think it’s about time that I finally do something about this. Jake, Adam, I’m going to give the two of you the opportunity to settle your differences and put all of this behind you. It won’t be a triple threat. It won’t be a match with 28 other Elitists. It’ll just be the two of you, and it will happen at Fighting Spirit.
(The fans in attendance begin to cheer hearing this, and this catches the attention of Adam Lucas, who looks ready for this match. Jake Smith on the other hand doesn’t look anywhere near as amused.)
Adam Lucas: About time. This works for me, so-
Jake Smith: No, no it does not! Why are we still doing this?? I thought we were supposed to be done at Grand Rampage, how many more chances do you need??
Adam Lucas: You’re still here, aren’t you? This ends when you’re out of the picture, and now I have the opportunity to accomplish that. As far as I’m concerned this is perfect for me, so I couldn’t care less whether or not you’re into it. I told you what was going to happen back at Shock Value, so if you thought dancing over my head back at Grand Rampage after you already failed to get the job done yourself changes anything, you don’t have the slightest idea what you got yourself into. Since we’ll be facing each other at Fighting Spirit I think it’s about time for you to put your money where your mouth is. Since you’re so convinced that you can beat me without a problem, go ahead and try.
Jake Smith: No.
Adam Lucas: Really?
Jake Smith: Yeah, really. I told you I was done with you. Why should I keep being forced to put up with these matches that are obviously below me when I should be in the World Championship picture right now?? I don’t want to face you right now, why would I!?
(The fans boo hearing this, and Captain Charisma just shakes his head before beginning to speak.)
Captain Charisma: Yeah, I figured you’d say that, Jake. I know the two of you both want an EAW World Championship match, so while I didn’t want to do this, I think what I am about to do is the best way to get the two of you to finally settle this. You two need to face each other at Fighting Spirit, so if you need an incentive to do so WITHOUT bailing from the match like Jake in particular has done multiple times throughout this season, here is one. The winner of this match will be going to Pain for Pride, and at this event they will be fighting for the EAW World Championship.
(This receives another loud reaction from the fans, and Jake looks surprised by what he just heard from the Commissioner. He looks over towards Captain Charisma before glancing at Adam Lucas, who begins to speak.)
Adam Lucas: The one thing I’ve wanted this season was the opportunity to fight for the EAW World Championship one on one. Last time it happened Jake disqualified himself just to get away from me, so if this is what it takes for me to get what I’m looking for, that’s perfectly fine with me. I’m all for this match. I’ll get Jake out of the way, then at Pain for Pride I’m finally taking the EAW World Championship.
Jake Smith: No, you’re not. I can’t believe we’re still even doing this. You’re not good enough to win the EAW World Championship, and now you’re not even going to make it to that title match.
Adam Lucas: Why’s that? Does this mean you’re finally going to man up and face me?
Jake Smith: I shouldn’t even have to waste my time on you, but I’m not going to miss out on the World Championship match I rightfully deserve either. I’m obviously better than you and we all know this, so if all I need to do is win one more match against you I’ll do that, then at Pain for Pride I’ll become a three-time World Champion while you’re nowhere to be seen.
(Adam Lucas and Jake Smith walk up towards each other as they stare each other down, but before things could get heated between the two, Captain Charisma begins to speak once again.)
Captain Charisma: Alright, before things get out of hand between the two of you, does this mean that the two of you agree to face each other at Fighting Spirit?
Adam Lucas: Of course. I’m ready to get this over with.
(After this, Captain Charisma looks towards Jake Smith, who sighs before beginning to speak.)
Jake Smith: Yeah, I accept.
(After hearing this, a smirk appears on Captain Charisma’s face.)
Captain Charisma: Great! Now that that’s out of the way, I believe there’s one more thing I should let you guys know.
Jake Smith: What?
Captain Charisma: Oh don’t worry, it’s nothing to worry about. I just thought I’d let you know that the match between the two of you at Fighting Spirit will be… The 11th edition of Barbed Wire Massacre!
(Jake’s face falls after hearing this, while the crowd explodes. Adam Lucas on the other hand has a grin on his face, and he begins to speak once more.)
Adam Lucas: Sounds good. I’m looking forward to it.
(Adam Lucas turns and walks out of the ring, as Jake Smith watches on in complete disbelief.)
Jake Smith: WHAT!? No, no it doesn’t sound good! This isn’t what I agreed to! What are you doing, why would we need this to be a Barbed Wire Massacre!? Captain Charisma, I don’t know what type of joke you think you’re playing right now, but you need to fix this! Tell Adam you weren’t serious, and…
(Jake Smith turns towards Captain Charisma, who also begins to leave the ring, completely ignoring Jake. Jake realizes that his complaints aren’t being heard, and he just slams his microphone down in frustration, unhappy that his match has been made a Barbed Wire Massacre. Jake just paces around the ring as Captain Charisma makes his way to the back, and Adam Lucas remains at ringside.)
Rich Russillo: WOW! Barbed Wire Massacre 11 is set, and there is an EAW World Championship match at Pain for Pride on the line here as Adam Lucas and Jake Smith finally have the chance to put their feud to an end!
Persephone: You know what? I actually have a reason to look forward to this now. The last Barbed Wire Massacre ended with a roll up, so hopefully things end better this time around.
Rich Russillo: That’s true, but you never know with Jake Smith. Still, there’s one thing we know for sure and it’s that Jake does not want to be in this match. He’s in for a tough night at Fighting Spirit.
(Adam Lucas waits outside of the ring, staring directly towards Jake Smith, who clearly is still unhappy with the upcoming match for Fighting Spirit. Adam looks ready for Shock Value, and he says a few words to Jake that aren’t picked up on the camera. From there, Voltage fades away from ringside.)
(Promotional ad for Fighting Spirit, where Jake Smith faces Adam Lucas in the 11th Barbed Wire Massacre.)
(We return from commercial break and we see Jake Smith is still in the ring after what happened just moments ago with ‘Stop Breathing’ by Playboi Carti playing in the background before we hear Rich Russillo.)
Rich Russillo: Welcome back to Voltage and Jake Smith is in the ring for singles action and he looks angry beyond belief after the announcement Captain Charisma had for him and Adam Lucas.
Persephone: The big baby will get over it and of course Bethany’s husband is staying to watch this match for some odd reason. Whatever. Go to Bella Braxton and the introductions.
Bella Braxton: This opening contest is scheduled for ONE FALL!
Crowd: ONE FALL!
Bella Braxton: Introducing first and already in the ring! From Parts Unknown! Here is “THE PROCESS” JAKE SMITH!
(Jake is extremely annoyed as he tries to prepare for his match as his music is replaced by “Psycho” by That’s Outrageous! as the New Breed Champion Effy McAvoy enters the arena to a negative reaction from the crowd, coming from behind the barricade as always. She has a crazed look in her eyes… as usual… as she heads to the ring.)
Bella Braxton: Introducing his opponent! From Watch Hil, Rhode Island! Weighing 125 pounds. Here is THE EAW NEW BREED CHAMPION! “THE OMEN” EFFY MCAVOY!!
Persephone: Oh great! First we have crybabies and now we have psycho bitches. Can’t she go somewhere.
Rich Russillo: I am personally glad she’s here because she is the New Breed Champion who successfully defended her championship against a very game challenger in Dynasty’s Cosmo Goldworthy.
Persephone: Now she’s back. Yay us.
Rich Russillo: Effy is looking to keep the momentum going as she faces the Hall of Famer Jake Smith. Or will Jake get a victory to make a statement to Adam Lucas as they head to Fighting Spirit? Who will leave victorious? We’re about to find out.
(Effy enters the ring and takes a neutral corner as her music fades off. She hands her title to the referee while shooting him a glare. The ref hands the title to Bella Braxton before calling for the bell.)
(DING! DING! DING!)
Rich Russillo: Here we go! Our opening contest is underway for Voltage and this one is going to be an interesting one to say the least. Who do you have in this one, Persephone?
Persephone: It doesn’t matter to me. They both suck. One is a psycho bitch and the other one is about to be sponsored by Lucky Charms because he’s so short. Look at them. They are almost looking eye to eye with each other.
Rich Russillo: Jake isn’t that short, but be that as it may, both competitors are jaw jacking with each other in the center of the ring BEFORE EFFY SLAPS JAKE RIGHT ACROSS THE FACE!
Persephone: BAHAHAHAHAHA! A BITCH JUST SLAPPED A BITCH! That was great! We look at Bethany’s husband at ringside trying not to laugh at him. SLAP HIM AGAIN!
Rich Russillo: Jake was most definitely stunned by the slap AND EFFY COMES IN WITH THE THESZ PRESS AND TAKES JAKE DOWN BEFORE SHE STARTS THROWING STIFF PUNCHES INTO THE SKULL OF JAKE!
Persephone: She is beating whatever brains Jake has left and that stupid referee is starting a count telling her to open the fists. Forget the rules. Just let them fight to the death.
Rich Russillo: You know that isn’t going to happen in this match, but Effy does stop the punches on four and doesn’t risk disqualification on five, BUT SHE GOES RIGHT BACK TO JAKE AND STARTS CHOKING HIM!
Persephone: Again that boring referee starts a count and that nutcase bitch stops at four BUT NOW SHE TRIES TO TAKE A SWING AT THE REFEREE! BAHAHAHHAHAHA! THAT REFEREE DESERVES!
Rich Russillo: Of course you would support wrestlers attacking the referees and the referee is letting Effy hear it. The referee is warning her that striking the ref causes a disqualification.
Persephone: The ref can talk all they want. The lights are on in her head, but nobody’s home. OH HERE COMES MR. LUCKY CHARMS!
Rich Russillo: Jake is able to easily take advantage of Effy’s temper as he grabs hold of Effy from behind AND LIFTS HER UP AND DROPS HER WITH A BACK SUPLEX! EFFY LANDS HARD ON THE BACK OF HER HEAD!
Persephone: The only thing going on in her head is elevator music and even that goes out more than once. But look at Jake feeling proud of himself after that suplex. He has such an ego problem for such a little guy.
Rich Russillo: Well Jake is pretty confident in his abilities as he brings Effy back to her feet BEFORE LIFTING HER UP AND PLANTING HER WITH A SLAM! Effy is down AS JAKE QUICKLY HITS A LEG DROP ACROSS THE THROAT!
Persephone: This guy is so full of himself!! He could have gone for a cover right there, but instead he pulls her up and wraps his arm around her neck. If this match goes any slower, it will start playing in reverse.
Rich Russillo: Jake likes to keep things to his type of match and I can completely understand that as he no doubt looks to make a statement towards Adam Lucas and their match at Fighting Spirit.
Persephone: Who cares? Right now I am extremely bored by watching the referee check on this Effy bitch to see if she wants to give up the match. We all know that it’s not gonna happen, so why do they even bother.
Rich Russillo: One day it might happen, but it isn’t today because Effy is fighting back to her feet while Jake is trying to keep Effy down and slowly wither her energy away, but it isn’t working very well.
Persephone: She does somehow manage to get back to her feet as she grabs Jake by the wrists AND TAKES HIM OVER WITH A MODIFIED SNAPMARE!! BAHAHAHAHA! DID YOU SEE HOW EASILY SHE DID THAT! OH THAT’S HILARIOUS!
Rich Russillo: That snapmare did take Jake by surprise as he tries to get back to his feet, BUT EFFY IS RIGHT THERE WITH A STRAIGHT KICK TO THE FACE! GOOD GAWD! That kick takes Jake down and Effy quickly goes for the cover!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWW—
Persephone: He kicked out. What a shock there.
Rich Russillo: One count on Jake and Effy grabs Jake by the hair AND TAKES HIM OVER WITH A SNAPMARE AGAIN! Effy still has a handful of Jake’s hair as she drags him over to the corner.
Persephone: The referee is reprimanding her for using the hair and they are threatening her with a count, but she really could care less as the referee once again starts a count. This referee is getting a big head and it needs to be deflated.
Rich Russillo: She is breaking the rules, Persephone. There is no excuses and the fact that the match is still going shows the restraint the referee has for this match.
Persephone: The referee’s a buzzkill. Got it.
Rich Russillo: That is not what I said at all, Persephone.
Persephone: That’s what I heard and what I am seeing is the referee still yelling at Effy. It looks like it’s because she still has Jake in the corner and kicking the crap out of him. The referee either needs to end the match or stop complaining.
Rich Russillo: Effy manages to muscle up Jake to the second rope BEFORE JAKE COMES BACK WITH A KNEE TO THE FACE SENDING EFFY STUMBLING BACK!
Persephone: Now Jake decides to show off even more by climbing his way up to the top rope. I hope he falls out of the corner and breaks his neck. Would do us all a favor.
Rich Russillo: Favors aside, Jake finds his balance on the top rope AND QUICKLY JUMPS OFF THE TOP ROPE! JAKE HITS THE CROSSBODY ON EFFY AND HE QUICKLY HOOKS THE LEG FOR THE COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!
TH–
Persephone: BAHAHAHAHA! JAKE GOT REVERSED BY THE PSYCHO AS SHE ROLLED THROUGH AND NOW JAKE’S SHOULDERS ARE DOWN!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!
TH–
Rich Russillo: JAKE KICKS OUT AT TWO! Jake was caught by surprise by that as both competitors are getting back to their feet. Jake is up a little quicker as Effy turns around AND HE RETURNS THE FAVOR WITH A SLAP TO EFFY!
Persephone: Alright. Slapping each other silly time is over. Now start beating the hell out of each other and end this match as fast as you possibly can, you assholes.
Rich Russillo: I thought you enjoyed playtime from what I heard.
Persephone: Shut up.
Rich Russillo: Anyways, Jake could have loosened a tooth or two of Effy’s teeth as Jake starts throwing forearms into the face of Effy as he continues to forearm Effy until she is backed into the ropes.
Persephone: Now he grabs her by the arm and whips her over to the ropes on the other side. This is ridiculous and boring. But here we go. She comes back off the ropes–
Rich Russillo: AND JAKE CHOPS HER ACROSS THE CHEST! THAT HAD TO KNOCK THE WIND OUT OF EFFY BEFORE HE FIRES OFF ANOTHER CHOP TO THE CHEST!
Persephone: At this rate, he’s gonna implode her chest and she will have to go back to training bras. BAHAHAHAHA!
Rich Russillo: That might be your opinion but right now Jake whips Effy back to the ropes one more time. Effy comes back off the ropes right to Jake WHO LIFTS HER UP AND TAKES HER UP AND OVER WITH A BACK BODY DROP!
Persephone: Bitch lands hard as she tries to get back to her feet as Jake hits the ropes himself. He rebounds off the ropes AND DELIVERS A RUNNING DROPKICK TO EFFY AND THAT SENDS HER THROUGH THE ROPES! Of course she lands on the floor in front of us.
Rich Russillo: Effy is trying to recover out on the floor as Jake is trying to build up a head of steam. Jake runs back and hits the ropes on the far side as he builds up speed BEFORE HE SAILS THROUGH THE ROPES WITH A SUICIDE DIVE–
Persephone: BAHAHAHAHAHA! SHE GOT THAT LITTLE KID IN THE FACE WITH A RIGHT HOOK! OH GAWD I HOPE THAT WAS A KNOCKOUT PUNCH!
Rich Russillo: It very well could be as Effy had the awareness to be ready for Jake and the Suicide Dive as she clocked Jake right in the jaw and he crashes and burns on the floor in a very ugly way.
Persephone: No surprise considering everything about Jake Smith is ugly. Now as we get back to this boring match, Effy grabs Jake by the fake hair once again and drags the bastard over to the ring steps.
Rich Russillo: Effy pulls Jake up to his feet AND SHE JUST STARTS SMASHING JAKE’S FACE INTO THE STEEL RING STEPS! OVER AND OVER AGAIN AS THE REFEREE IS SIMPLY COUNTING THEM BOTH OUT!
Persephone: Something halfway tolerable happens in this match and this asshole is counting. I think we need a new set of referees that aren’t so stupid.
Rich Russillo: I think that Effy hears the count as she still has a handful of Jake’s hair and drags herself and Jake over to the edge of the ring as she shoves him into the ring before following suit at the referee’s count of eight.
Persephone: This bitch rolls Jake onto his stomach as she backs up to the opposite side of the ring. The little man has made it onto his knees as THAT BITCH COMES RUNNING IN–
Rich Russillo: EFFY GOT THE RUNNING KNEE TO THE SIDE OF JAKE’S HEAD BEFORE SHE FOLLOWS IT UP WITH A SWINGING NECKBREAKER! EFFY PULLS JAKE TO THE CENTER OF THE RING BY THE HAIR BEFORE HOOKING THE LEG FOR THE COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOO!
THHHHHHHHHHHHHHH–
Persephone: He kicked out. Yay!
Rich Russillo: That was a close near fall for Effy McAvoy as she pulls Jake to his knees AND SHE STARTS FIRING KICK AFTER KICK INTO THE RIBS OF THE HALL OF FAMER!
Persephone: If she was good at it, then she might have broken a rib or two by now to hopefully make it hard to breathe–
Rich Russillo: Effy went for a kick to the head, BUT JAKE IS ABLE TO DUCK THE KICK AT THE LAST SECOND! Jake is back to his feet as he grabs Effy by the waist.
Persephone: Bitch tries to save herself by wrapping her legs around his waist to try and take him over with a victory roll counter, BUT OF COURSE HE IS ABLE TO BLOCK! WHY THE FUCK WOULD HE NOT?
Rich Russillo: Jake stays on his feet and his hold on Effy before HE MUSCLES HER UP AND COUNTERS WITH THE WHEELBARROW SUPLEX! EFFY AGAIN BOUNCES HER HEAD OFF THE CANVAS!
Persephone: Didn’t make him or her any smarter, but it sadly keeps the match going and now it’s in the favor of crybaby Jake Smith. Let’s see if he finally does something to make this match interesting.
Rich Russillo: Looks like we are about to find out as Jake pulls Effy back to her feet and throws her to the ropes. Effy comes back AND JAKE TOSSES HER IN THE AIR–
Persephone: But that bitch smartens up for once in her life and wraps her legs around Jake’s neck and counters with a modified frankensteiner. Probably the most action Jake has had in his entire life.
Rich Russillo: Well that’s a completely different story for another time as Jake makes it back to his feet AND EFFY RUNS RIGHT TO JAKE AS SHE GOES FOR ANOTHER IMPACTFUL MOVE–
Persephone: THAT PAIN IN THE ASS JAKE SMITH GRABS HER AND LIFTS HER UP IN THE AIR BEFORE DRIVING HER INTO THE MAT WITH A POP UP POWERBOMB!
Rich Russillo: JAKE CALLS THAT THE “LAST SEDATION” AND THAT MIGHT HAVE BEEN TO RUB SALT IN THE WOUND BECAUSE ADAM LUCAS ALSO USES A POP UP POWERBOMB IN HIS ARSENAL!!
Persephone: Ehhh. It’s nothing to scream about, but the look on Bethany’s husband’s face was pretty amusing. I wouldn’t be surprised if Adam jumped into the ring and beat the crap out of him.
Rich Russillo: Well Effy isn’t moving on the mat after the powerbomb and Jake drops down as he stacks Effy up for the cover!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!
THHHHHHHHHHHRRRRRRREEEEEE-
Persephone: SHE KICKED OUT! OF COURSE SHE DID! JUST TO DRIVE ME INSANE AND MAKE MY LIFE MISERABLE! I HATE THIS PLACE!
Rich Russillo: Jake took too much time to go for the cover and it might have cost him the match. Jake might have been rubbing salt in the proverbial wound to his Fighting Spirit opponent.
Persephone: He needs to stop worrying about his new boyfriend and focus on ending this damn match before I go absolutely insane.
Rich Russillo: You might be already there.
Persephone: Shut the hell up!
Rich Russillo: As we get back to the match, Jake brings Effy back to her feet and whips her into the corner. Effy crashes hard into the turnbuckle AS JAKE RUNS IN AND CATCHES EFFY IN THE MIDSECTION WITH A SHOULDER TACKLE!
Persephone: He can’t just stop at one. He has to keep up with repeated shoulder tackles into the crazy bitch’s midsection. And here comes the referee starting another count.
Rich Russillo: The referee tells Jake to let Effy out of the corner… and he does… BEFORE DELIVERING A HEADBUTT TO EFFY SENDING HER BACK INTO THE CORNER!
Persephone: That idiot Jake also took some damage from that headbutt even though he has no brains in that head of his as he sadly stays on the attack and lifts Effy onto the top turnbuckle. Just hurry up already.
Rich Russillo: Jake climbs up onto the second rope and applies a facelock AND IS TRYING TO LIFT EFFY OFF THE TURNBUCKLE FOR A SUPERPLEX–
Persephone: BITCH IS BLOCKING IT! She is fighting back. Of course she is. We can’t just have this match. Now she is throwing punches into Jake’s midsection–
Rich Russillo: ONE OF THOSE PUNCHES MIGHT HAVE BEEN A LITTLE LOW AS JAKE IS HOLDING HIS GROIN AREA AS EFFY SIMPLY SHOVES JAKE OFF THE TURNBUCKLE AND DOWN TO THE MAT!
Persephone: I didn’t think that he had any balls to hurt considering they are probably in that other psycho bitch Caroline’s cauldron or something.
Rich Russillo: Jake is down on the mat as Effy drops down to the second rope. She lets some very crazy laughter AS SHE JUMPS OFF THE SECOND ROPE AND DELIVERS A DOUBLE FOOT STOMP!
Persephone: Normally you losers would say that stomps like that would go right through the heart of their targets, but Jake Smith doesn’t have a heart because it left the same as his height did.
Rich Russillo: Jokes aside, the boots could have caved Jake’s chest in and he isn’t moving as Effy quickly goes into the cover and hooks the leg!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!
THHHHHHHHHHHRRRRRRREEEEEEEE!
Persephone: OH COME ON!! THIS IS ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS!!
Rich Russillo: THAT WAS A VERY CLOSE NEAR FALL FOR THE NEW BREED CHAMPION AND SHE IS ARGUING WITH THE REFEREE ABOUT IT SUPPOSEDLY BEING A THREE COUNT!
Persephone: Oh, bitch! Quit throwing a damn fit. If anybody was hoping for it to be a damn three count, it’s me. Sadly, I don’t always get what I want and it absolutely sucks!!
Rich Russillo: This is not helping her chances of winning because she is giving Jake all the time in the world to recover and that’s what he does AS HE GRABS EFFY BY THE BACK OF THE HEAD–
Persephone: BEFORE HE SPINS OUT AND DROPS EFFY FACE FIRST WITH THE PROPHETIC!! ASSHOLE FINALLY DID SOMETHING RIGHT AS THE ROLLING CUTTER PLANTS HER AND HE GOES FOR THE COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!
THHHHHHHHHHHRRRRRRREEEEEEEE!
Rich Russillo: EFFY GOT THE SHOULDER UP! OHHH HELL THAT WAS A CLOSE NEAR FALL FOR THE HALL OF FAMER!
Persephone: SON OF A BITCH! I THINK THEY DO THIS ON PURPOSE TO MAKE MY LIFE MISERABLE-
Rich Russillo: What a hell of a match this has been to kick off Sunday Night Voltage! Now Jake has backed himself into the corner and pulls down the kneepad. He wants to finish it here.
Persephone: It’s about damn time!! Anyways, this weirdo is waiting for the other weirdo to get back to her feet. It takes a gawd awful long time, but she is on her knees AS THAT LOSER RUNS IN FOR THE “GAWD COMPLEX”-
Rich Russillo: JAKE WAS RUNNING IN FOR THE SHINING WIZARD, BUT EFFY GETS OUT OF THE WAY AT THE VERY LAST SECOND! AND JAKE LANDS AWKWARDLY ON THE MAT! Effy manages to get back to her feet as she grabs Jake by the wrist BEFORE PULLING HIM IN–
Persephone: THAT BITCH GOT “THE CLIMAX”! I’M GLAD SOMEBODY DID AS THAT DAMN RIPCORD KNEE CAUGHT LITTLE BOY JAKE IN THE JAW AND SHE DROPS FOR THE COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!
THHHHHHHHHHHRRRRRRREEEEEEEE!
Rich Russillo: THAT WAS ANOTHER CLOSE NEAR FALL FOR EFFY AS JAKE JUST GETS HIS SHOULDER UP AND EFFY CAN’T BELIEVE IT!
Persephone: BAHAHAHAHAHAHA! That bitch is screaming bloody murder and is giving Jake a run for his money in the most hilarious hissy fit category.
Rich Russillo: Effy looks like she is about to lose it as she gets to her feet AND CALLS FOR JAKE TO GET BACK TO HIS FEET!
Persephone: That little man is starting to move and that bitch has a crazier look in her eyes than normal. I hope this ends it.
Rich Russillo: Jake is back to his feet AND EFFY COMES RUNNING IN LIKE A HOUSE OF FIRE AS SHE IS LOOKING FOR “PROTECT YOUR NECK”! IT COULD BE OVER HERE–
Persephone: NOT AGAIN! THAT MIDGET WAS ABLE TO DUCK THE CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL AND THIS CRAPPY MATCH STILL CONTINUES! I HATE ALL OF YOU!! Dumb bitch quickly turns around–
Rich Russillo: JAKE GRABS HER BY THE THE NECK AND PULLS HER IN–
Persephone: AND LITTLE BOY JAKE PLANTS THE PSYCHO WITH THE “STARMAKER”! OUT OF FUCKING NOWHERE! WHAT A STUPID NAME FOR HIS FINISHER! WHAT THE HELL TOOK HIM SO LONG?!?!?
Rich Russillo: Call it what you want, but it was definitely effective as the Jumping Cutter that Jake calls the “Starmaker” and that spiked Effy right on her face. She has got to be out of it–
Persephone: WHAT IN THE HELL IS THIS ASSHOLE DOING? WHY IN THE HELL IS HE NOT GOING FOR THE COVER?
Rich Russillo: Jake looked like he was going for the cover to end the match, but instead he walks over to the ropes and he is looking right at Adam Lucas.
Persephone: Now this idiot is leaving the ring instead of winning the match. This man is an idiot. I hate him.
Rich Russillo: Jake is walking over to Adam Lucas as Adam gets out of his chair AND THESE TWO ARE GOING AT IT RIGHT NOW! THE REFEREE IS RIGHT THERE TO MAKE SURE THAT NO CONTACT GETS MADE BETWEEN ADAM AND JAKE!
Persephone: The referee is being a killjoy again. I don’t see why they are trying to prevent a fight. They are just going to do it anyway.
Rich Russillo: I guess we are just lucky right now as all Jake and Adam are doing is just arguing with each other. But at any time, these two can just start fighting. It has been brewing for a long time.
Persephone: Because they are both stupid. These two idiots really need to find better ways to release their frustration than to argue with each other. One is married. Isn’t the other one in a relationship with another weirdo?
Rich Russillo: That’s not the point. The point is that they are getting into it once again and it’s only going to get worse from here before these two meet at Fighting Spirit. That’s where they will truly beat the hell out of each other.
Persephone: Why wait? Just kill each other now and we won’t have to worry about Fighting Spirit. I would have no issue with that and we wouldn’t have to see either of them for a very long time.
Rich Russillo: I bet that’s your wishful thinking, Persephone, but it looks like this little fight is about over as Jake backs up and gets back into the ring.
Persephone: I guess this blowhard has had enough of playing with his friend and talking crap because now he remembers that he has a match and he FINALLY goes to finish this bitch off. This is driving me insane!
Rich Russillo: Jake is in the ring as the referee follows suit. Now Jake walks back to Effy to try and bring her back to her feet, BUT EFFY WAS PLAYING POSSUM! SHE WAS ABLE TO RECOVER AS SHE GRABS JAKE AROUND THE NECK AND BRINGS HIM DOWN AND OVER INTO ROLLUP! SMALL PACKAGE AND HIS SHOULDERS ARE DOWN!
ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEE!
TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!
THHHHHHHHHRRRRRREEEEEE!
(DING! DING! DING!)
(The bell rings and “Psycho” starts playing again as Effy lets the pin go. Both competitors have looks of shock on their faces as Bella Braxton announces the final decision of the match.)
Bella Braxton: Here is your winner… THE NEW BREED CHAMPION! EFFY MCAVOY!
Persephone: BAHAHAHAHA! That was so damn hilarious! Oh my gosh, he’s such a dumbass.
Rich Russillo: Well I certainly didn’t have that on my bingo card for the night considering the considerable experience advantage Jake has over Effy. But he let his overconfidence take control and it cost him the match. Effy is a rising star, but I would still call that an upset victory.
Persephone: The only upset is me being upset that we still have a whole load of show to go. This sucks.
(Effy is back to her feet as the referee hands her the New Breed Championship before raising her arm in victory. Meanwhile, Jake is still in the ring stunned that he got caught before he starts throwing a fit in the middle of the ring as the camera cuts to Adam, who is absolutely amused with Jake’s temper tantrum.)
Persephone: The idiot is acting like a big baby and he only has himself to blame. He got show offy to Bethany’s bitch and it led to him being pinned. Stupidity at its finest.
Rich Russillo: Be that as it may, Jake took his eye off the ball to make remarks to Adam Lucas and it led to Jake getting rolled up and Effy McAvoy picks up one of the biggest victories of her career. Congratulations once again to Effy McAvoy on the victory.
(Effy is celebrating her victory in the ring while Jake is pissed off and he rolls out of the ring and walks over to Adam Lucas. Adam is still looking amused as Jake steps up to Adam and pokes him on the chest.)
Jake Smith: (off-mic) You just keep laughing it up because I vow to finish your ass off ONCE AND FOR ALL at Fighting Spirit! I GUARANTEE IT!!
(Jake storms off and heads up the entrance ramp as Adam shakes his head with a smirk on his face as he looks up the entrance ramp watching Jake walk away before heading up the entrance ramp himself.)
Rich Russillo: While Jake Smith is leaving the ringside area after being extremely pissed off thanks to Adam Lucas and losing this match, on the opposite end of the table, Effy McAvoy is in the ring, completely ecstatic about picking up the victory over a Hall of Famer in Jake Smith.
Persephone: She’s in the ring acting all excited, but this bitch is completely nuts. I mean she is the type of person who could have a whole session of group therapy on her own. She is not playing with a freaking full deck. KEEP HER AWAY FROM ME!
Rich Russillo: I don’t think we have to worry about her coming over here because she is in a pretty good mood for once. So again, I would like to offer our congratulations to the New Breed Champion, Effy McAvoy, for picking up a very huge victory to kick off Voltage!
(After Rich finishes speaking, Effy is celebrating and still as happy as can be, but what she doesn’t see is somebody sneaking into the ring behind her.)
Persephone: OH WHAT THE HELL!!! We just got rid of a couple of assholes already and now we have one more who just slid into the ring. Who the hell is that?
Rich Russillo: I can’t tell right now because of the angle, BUT THEY JUST CLOBBERED EFFY MCAVOY FROM BEHIND! WAIT A SECOND! I KNOW EXACTLY WHO THAT IS NOW!
Persephone: Yeah, me too, stupid! It’s that other bimbo Bridget Bridget! This bitch calls herself a Stream Queen and it gets on my nerves.
Rich Russillo: She might get on people’s nerves, but here she is attacking the New Breed Champion! BRIDGET IS THROWING LEFTS AND RIGHTS INTO THE BACK OF THE HEAD OF THE NEW BREED CHAMPION!
Persephone: Well that psycho bitch’s good mood is gone as she rolls onto her back AND KICKS THAT OTHER BITCH IN THE MOUTH!! OH GREAT! SOMETHING ELSE IS STARTING!
Rich Russillo: You can say that again as Effy is back to her feet. She runs to Bridget Bridget AND HITS A DOUBLE LEG TAKEDOWN AND NOW WE HAVE A FIGHT GOING ON—
Persephone: Well that fight really didn’t last long as Bitchy Bitchy caught the other psycho with a thumb to the eyes. Now this is the kind of fight that I like. Short.
Rich Russillo: Effy is clawing the sting out of her eye as Bridget grabs her by the hair and turns her around RIGHT INTO THE BACKSTABBER! THE FORCE OF THAT MOVE SENDS EFFY BOUNCING INTO THE ROPES!
Persephone: Aren’t we just so damn lucky. But the other girl is back on her feet as Effy turns around–
Rich Russillo: SUPERKICK BY BRIDGET BRIDGET! THAT IS APPROPRIATELY NAMED THE “BRIDGE-KICK” AND IT LOOKED LIKE IT CAUGHT EFFY RIGHT IN THE BRIDGE OF THE NOSE!
Persephone: Who cares where it hit her. All that matters is that the Psycho Breed Champion is out cold and we can move on with this show.
Rich Russillo: Not so fast! Bridget is rolling out of the ring and it looks like she is coming over to the timekeeper’s area and grabbing a microphone.
Persephone: Of course she does. This nightmare just keeps on going.
(Bridget has rolled out of the ring and walks over to the timekeeper’s and just snatches the microphone from Bella Braxton. Bridget glares at the ring announcer before going back to the ring. Bridget slowly enters the ring before standing front and center as she begins to speak.)
Bridget Bridget: Do you know what I think? I think that it’s a crime that I have been here for such a long time and that all of you people are not talking about the lovely Bridget Bridget.
Crowd: BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
(Bridget looks around at the crowd and rolls her eyes at the negativity being sent her way. She can’t believe that this crowd has the audacity to boo someone like her.)
Bridget Bridget: That’s ok. I know you only boo me because you all seriously love me. I completely get it. With that being said, I want all of you in the arena to pull out your phones and go live on your social media of choice, because Bridget Bridget wants the entire world to see and hear this. This announcement is without a doubt live stream worthy.
(The crowd starts chanting for Bridget to “Shut Up”, but naturally, Bridget is not paying them and their negativity any attention.)
Bridget Bridget: As I was saying! The lovely Bridget Bridget has been in Elite Answers Wrestling for quite some time and as far as I am concerned, my time has been well spent so far. But now? Now it’s time for me to raise my profile even more than I already have. Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for Bridget Bridget to elevate her career to the next level.
(The crowd is still booing Bridget as she looks over at Effy, who still hasn’t moved since getting kicked in the face. Bridget grabs Effy by the hair to the center of the ring before she sits down on Effy and pretty much straddles her chest. Some perverts in the audience are whistling at that, but the majority of the crowd is still booing Bridget. Bridget looks out towards the crowd before she continues to speak.)
Bridget Bridget: You see, dear Effy. That’s exactly where you come in to make my mission successful. While the crowd not talking about me is a crime, there is actually a bigger crime being committed right now and that is the fact that I have been here for so long and I have yet to challenge for a championship around here. It’s a shame, isn’t it?
(Bridget looks back down at Effy and pats her on the cheek before she continues to speak.)
Bridget Bridget: Well of course you agree with me. Do you know how we should fix that? It’s by me becoming a champion. You see, me becoming champion would be the absolute most PERFECT way for me to make an even bigger name for myself around here.
Bridget Bridget: But you see, Effy dear. You have exactly what I want. With that being the case, I am coming after you, honey, and the New Breed Championship.
(The crowd boos even louder at Bridget’s declaration of challenging Effy for the New Breed Championship.)
Bridget Bridget: Effy. Sooner rather than later, Voltage and the entire EAW roster are going to bear witness to a VERY NEW New Breed Champion. Doesn’t that sound so exciting?
Crowd: SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP!
Bridget Bridget: Oh I know you all are just as excited as I am. You know what? I think we should do something so that everybody can remember this night as the first step in my journey towards becoming the New Breed Champion.
(Bridget stands up and tosses down her microphone and takes her cell phone out of her pocket and brings up her camera. She leans down next to the still unconscious Effy and takes a couple of selfies before she pats Effy on the head and stands up. She soaks in the crowd’s reaction for a brief second before “Bad Bitch” by Bebe Rexha starts playing. Bridget then leaves the ring and skips up the entrance ramp as the crowd continues to boo her. )
Rich Russillo: Well this is certainly an interesting development we just witnessed here on Voltage.
Persephone: What is so interesting about it? All these bitches secretly hate each other and will step on the other in order to become successful.
Rich Russillo: That is not exactly what I was talking about.
Persephone: I like my version much better.
Rich Russillo: What I was talking about was the fact that Bridget Bridget snuck into the ring and attacked the New Breed Champion from behind before laying her out and issued the challenge for Effy’s New Breed Championship.
Persephone: Whoever said that if something was nice, they should name it twice needs to get the hell beat out of them because having a name like Bridget Bridget makes her sound like a braindead moron.
Rich Russillo: You might not think she’s very bright, Persephone, but Bridget Bridget made a statement here tonight at the expense of Effy McAvoy and if things go Bridget’s way, then we will be saying Bridget Bridget and New Breed Champion in the same sentence a lot more often.
Persephone: Oh I can hardly wait. Wake me when this nightmare is over.
Rich Russillo: This is just the beginning of a battle brewing between Effy and Bridget and the New Breed Title, but damn, what a show this is going to be if this is how the first match of the night goes.
(The final shot shows Bridget at the top of the entrance ramp filming herself while also motioning around her waist that she is coming for the New Breed Championship as the camera cuts elsewhere….)
(Commercial for Clash of Clans with Xander Payne.)
(Sunday Night Voltage returns to show a panaround shot of the Utilita Arena Newcastle, as the crowd murmurs in anticipation for what is to come in what has already been an exciting show so far, and it’s not long before they get their answer. ‘Somebody Get Me A Doctor’ by Van Halen is heard blasting through the speakers of the arena as the crowd erupts in response to this. It’s a mix of cheers and boos, predominantly boos, as the camera goes over to the stage to show Dr. Bethany Blue as she is seen making her way out from the backstage area with her new acquired hardware. She has the Hardcore Championship over her shoulder as she takes it and immediately raises it high into the air, a litany of pyro erupting out from behind her while she does. It’s not long before she then begins to make her way down the ramp and toward the ring with a confident expression on her face.)
Bella Braxton: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome… the NEW!!!!! EAW HARDCORE CHAMPION!!!!!!!!!! DR. BETHANY BLUE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rich Russillo: Well, Grand Rampage was certainly a monumental night for The Good Doctor. She walked in with the fullest intention of winning one of the Championships that she has never won in this company in the form of the EAW Hardcore Championship and she did just that, by beating a tough Champion in Solomon, she once again is a Champion in this company, and I’m sure that this is a very feel good moment for her as she makes her way down to the ring, seemingly looking to celebrate the occasion. Who can blame her?
Persephone: I can, I don’t want to hear what she has to say. I don’t know if you feel the same way, Rich, but I’m tired of the constant ego stroking and bitching about how she’s better than everyone else, so what she won the Hardcore Championship?! Who gives a damn! She talks too much and it annoys the hell out of me, and that negates any sort of wrestling ability that she has, so let me just say that I’m not moved by this whatsoever.
Rich Russillo: :francis: What are you even moved by?
(Bethany makes her way up the steps and onto the apron as she enters through the ropes, heading over and taking a microphone from the ringside area while ‘Somebody Get Me A Doctor’ then begins to fade out from there. She makes her way toward the center of the ring, embracing the atmosphere of the moment, before then beginning to raise her microphone to her mouth and beginning to speak.)
Dr. Bethany Blue: Do you want me to be completely honest with all of you? This is an outcome that I anticipated from the moment that my match against Solomon Stane was announced. When my mystery opportunity was revealed to be a shot at the Hardcore Championship at the Grand Rampage Marquee Event, I knew that this title was as good as mine, and look where we are right now? Look at what we’ve managed to accomplish? I have to say, it has never felt better being right about everything that I said. It has never felt better living up to my promises, something that I always knew I could do, because I’m that damn good. I will say that Solomon put up a fight, he gave me more than I bargained for, and he truly showed why he deserved to be the Champion, but he didn’t deserve to be a Champion more than me. I showed him what a true Hardcore Champion is all about, and it was something that he just could not handle, and I don’t blame him, because not many people can compare to me inside of that ring. And now, for the first time in a very long time, I’m a Champion in Elite Answers Wrestling, and all of you are left to marvel in that; it’s not like you had much of a choice in the first place.
(Bethany smirks as she adjusts her title over her shoulder, letting her words simmer before continuing to say what she needs to say.)
Dr. Bethany Blue: This is the very first time I have won the Hardcore Championship in this company. When you’re as successful as I am, there are not many firsts left to do, but this is one of them. I can’t think of a better way to end my Championship drought than to do so like this; this title is perfect to remind everyone of the type of competitor that I am. I don’t plan on losing it anytime soon, I’m not just going to step aside to allow anyone to make a name at my expense, because simply put, I’ve done that for far too long already. I’m going to make sure that I’m a Champion for a very long time, because I have big plans for this title and I have the fullest intentions of elevating it. You better get used to this sight, because it’s not going to leave for a very long time, that much I’ll tell you.
(Bethany pauses, but before she continues… ‘Rubber Band Man’ by T.I. begins to be heard playing through the speakers. The crowd gives a mixed reaction as the camera goes over to show a confident Damien Kutcher as he’s seen making his way out. He takes a brief look at the ring and takes a deep breath, before then beginning to make his way down the ramp.)
Rich Russillo: Well, it looks like we’re not wasting much time finding a potential challenger for Bethany, because here comes Damien Kutcher, who certainly has something to say about Bethany winning the Hardcore Championship. We know that he participated in the Grand Rampage match last week, and has been determined to make things right in his career despite issues with his tag team partner Akari Kiyoko, I can’t think of a better way than to take a swing at a singles Championship and see what he gets out of it.
Persephone: … You’re kidding me, right? DAMIEN KUTCHER? Somehow, a bigger waste of time than the “Champion” in the ring right now. You think that he even stands the slightest chance? Wow, you’re more delusional than I thought.
(Damien makes his way up the steps and onto the apron as he enters through the ropes. He heads over and takes a microphone from the ringside area while ‘Rubber Band Man’ begins to come to a close. He turns around and approaches Bethany, taking a moment before beginning to speak.)
Damien Kutcher: I know you probably didn’t expect me to make my way out here, Bethany, and I bet that you probably don’t think much about me and what I bring to the table. But I’ve fought too long to be denied now, and I think it’s about damn time that I get something worthwhile around here. I’ve been lingering around for far too long, sitting on my hands, and being complacent, and now I want a change. I want to be able to say that all the hard work that I’ve put in this past year is worth it. The only way that I can think about doing that is by not only facing you for that title, but by winning it as well. It’s been a long time, but I can firmly say that Damien Kutcher is focused on elevating his name, and it never mattered who stood in the way of that; what mattered is the fact that I got there. And trust me when I say, I’m going to get there. Bethany, I want you to give me a chance, because I’ll not only give it my all, but I’ll show the world why I deserve to be a Champion. You don’t have to believe me, but when given the opportunity, I’m going to make sure that you respect it.
(The crowd reacts loudly to the challenge that is being put out by Damien right now, who has a serious expression on her face. Bethany doesn’t have much of the same, though, as she’s skeptical about this. She then raises her microphone and begins to speak.)
Dr. Bethany Blue: Damien, I know how it may feel to be put in this position right now-
???: Hold on, hold on.
(The crowd gives a loud reaction as Bethany is stopped before she can say what she needs to say. The camera goes over to the stage as the shot focuses on Akari Kiyoko and Luna Adeline, who are seen making their way out from the backstage area. Damien does not look happy about this, and considering the issues that they have, he damn well might be at his wits end. But with microphones in their hand, both Akari and Luna make their way down.)
Persephone: Of course! More people! I can’t wait to see what soap opera bullshit comes of this! I’m just so excited!
Rich Russillo: Well, we know that Akari and Damien have had their issues, and it seems to have boiled over after last week at Grand Rampage when Akari let Damien get tossed out of the match. Both of them believe that the other is being held back by them, and honestly, I can’t think of a better way for them to settle it than to go after the Hardcore Championship and see who comes out of it on top. But that’s not taking into account the threat that Bethany is, so I guess that we’re just going to have to wait and see.
(Akari and Luna both make their way into the ring, briefly glancing at Damien, but Akari has his full intention on Bethany and the Hardcore Championship.)
Akari Kiyoko: I know it’s easy to think that what he’s saying is true, but take it from his tag team partner, who has been held back by him every step of the way, it’s not. It’s all a lie, just like everything else he says, and I know that he wants you to believe it, and he wants you to think that even for a second he’s going to wear that Hardcore Championship, but he’s wrong. If there is anyone out of the two of us who is ready for such a responsibility, that is me, so I’m going to make this easier for you, Bethany. You don’t need to accept his challenge, you don’t need to face him for the Hardcore Championship, we both know how that’s going to go. Just allow me, and I can show you what a real Champion looks like.
Damien Kutcher: Hold on, hold the fuck on, the last thing I’m gonna do is let you walk around here thinking that your tough shit just because you think you’re better than me. If you wanted this opportunity, then you should have come out here first, but you didn’t, and I’m the one who called my shot. Besides, you don’t deserve this shit anyway, so I don’t need you to come in here and act like your untouchable, because we know just as well as anyone that you’re going to do what you do best and choke at the nearest opportunity.
Luna Adeline: I’d watch what I’d say Damien, it’d be quite ironic coming from you that you talk shit about Akari. Akari is one of the most promising prospects that Voltage has to offer, and he’s had chances to prove it, sure, but the reason he hasn’t reached his true potential yet is because YOU have done everything to stop his stride. You two were supposed to be friends, but it’s clear now that you care more about yourself, and not only that, you want to bring him down.
Damien Kutcher: Hell no, don’t tell me you honestly think that. I cared more about Akari Kiyoko and his success than you, but you got into his head and told him a complete lie, and look at the situation that he’s in. He’s long gone now, so I’m just going to move on, and I hoped that you two would as well, but not, because I’m still stuck in this pointless situation of having to run in circles with the two of you when I don’t need to.
Akari Kiyoko: Watch your mouth, Damien. You have little room to speak.
(Both of them begin to argue, but as they do, Bethany, who looks amused by all of this, raises her microphone and begins to speak over them.)
Dr. Bethany Blue: Alright, alright, both of you can settle down. You don’t need to fight over who gets the first shot, because I have a solution for you. Rumor has it that there’s a Voltage supershow on the horizon, let’s say, May 4th. So if you want a shot there, then by all means. I will face BOTH OF YOU, and regardless of the threats that you pose, I will still be the Hardcore Champion, I promise that.
(Bethany slams her microphone down to the ground, taking her title and raising it high into the air. Damien and Akari both look satisfied by this, but still have animosity with each other as they stare a hole into one another. Luna Adeline stares right at the Champion, as it’s a tense situation all around. It’s the last shot seen before Sunday Night Voltage, then, begins to fade to elsewhere from there.)
(Promotional ad for Voltage’s May 4th show, where Dr. Bethany Blue defends the Hardcore Championship against Akari Kiyoko and Damien Kutcher.)
(The camera cuts to Bella Braxton in the ring.)
Bella Braxton: THE FOLLOWING CONTEST IS A SCHEDULED FOR… ONE FALL!!
Crowd: ONE FALL!!
(“Red Criminal” by Oral Cigarettes blasts through the arena as Chiyo Gedo makes his way onto the stage, and strikes a brief pose before marching down to the ring, remaining focused for his upcoming match.)
Bella Braxton: Introducing first! Hailing from Osaka, Japan, weighing in at 220 pounds… HE IS THE FACELESS TERMINATOR… CHIYO GEDO!
Rich Russillo: At Grand Rampage, Chiyo Gedo had an opportunity like many others to main event Pain for Pride for a World Championship-
Persephone: But let it slip through his fingertips for Drake King’s bumass to win instead.
Rich Russillo: Uh… right, and Chiyo Gedo wants to bounce back in tonight’s match against Octavia.
(“Just Close Your Eyes” by Waterproof Blonde blares throughout the arena, receiving a negative reaction from fans in attendance as Octavia steps through the curtain, laughing to herself before striking a pose on the stage area, and strutting down the ramp way.)
Bella Braxton: And his opponent!! Hailing out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada, weighing in at 160 pounds…SHE IS THE PLATINUM QUEEN… OCTAVIA!!
Rich Russillo: Octavia is also someone that lost at Grand Rampage, and wants to bounce back herself.
Persephone: Great, so I’m watching a match between literal losers.
Rich Russillo: In a way… yes? Though, that does mean they’re heading into this with massive chips on their shoulder.
Persephone: Whatever.
(The referee signals for the bell as both competitors stand in opposing corners.)
(DING! DING! DING!)
Rich Russillo: The bell has rung, and this match between both Octavia and Chiyo Gedo is officially underway! Heading into this, Chiyo will certainly have the strength advantage over Octavia, perhaps the striking advantage as well. But Octavia might have the mental advantage over Chiyo, and definitely won’t hold back on the brutality herself either.
Persephone: You said she has a mental advantage. I think she’s just mental.
Rich Russillo: You’re not the only, but this isn’t here nor there as both Octavia and Chiyo start to circle one another. Collar and elbow both Octavia and Chiyo in the center of the ring! Like I mentioned, Chiyo has the strength advantage over Octavia, and certainly uses it, backing her into the corner, keeping her pinned there as well!
Persephone: Sadly, this does not lead to an immediate disqualification as the referee gives them til the count of five to break.
Referee: ONE! TWO! THREE-
Rich Russillo: The referee interjects himself, prying both competitors apart, not wanting to see it end in such a manner. Chiyo puts both hands up as he separates from Octavia in the corner- BUT OCTAVIA USES THIS CHANCE TO SLAP CHIYO ACROSS THE CHEST WITH AN OPEN-HANDED CHOP!
Persephone: Ha! That little weak shit had no effect.
Rich Russillo: You’re right, Chiyo seems more irritated than anything, and marches toward Octavia- who backs herself up in the corner, sticking her torso through the middle rope!
(Chiyo keeps trying to get at Octavia, but the referee holds him back until Chiyo starts to calm down after a while, allowing himself to be backed to the center by the referee for separation. Octavia cracks a demented smirk, and exits the corner.)
Rich Russillo: Octavia might be getting into Gedo’s head early on, or DID before Chiyo got himself back in order. However, both competitors circle each other around the ring, and another collar and elbow tie-up takes place in the center! Chiyo targets the arm of Octavia, and wrings it! Gaining control of the wrist!
Persephone: Ugh. These two continue to drag their feet with slow, and plodding “technical wrestling.” 🤓
Rich Russillo: BUT OCTAVIA FINDS A SIMPLE WAY TO BREAK FREE FROM THAT WRISTLOCK WITH A KICK TO THE ABDOMEN, DOUBLING CHIYO OVER!
Persephone: Smartest thing she’s done thus far.
Rich Russillo: Octavia grabs him in a standing side headlock, and takes Chiyo down to the mat! Octavia wrenches on the hold, truly grounding her opposition as Chiyo Gedo is in a world of trouble.
Persephone: How?! Explain to me HOW he’s in trouble. Is he going to tap out to a fucking grounded side headlock??
Rich Russillo: I… it’s possible.
Persephone: Sure. :mjpls:
Rich Russillo: Chiyo rises back to his feet in the side headlock, and backs Octavia into the corner! The referee interjects himself once again, giving Octavia til the count of five to break it.
Referee: ONE! TWO-
Rich Russillo; CHIYO ESCAPES! SHOVING OCTAVIA OFF, AND SENDING TO THE OPPOSITE CORNER! CHIYO CHASES AFTER- BUT OCTAVIA GOES UP AND OVER HIM IN THE CORNER! CHIYO SPINS AROUND- BUT GETS CAUGHT WITH A CHOP TO THE CHEST!
Persephone: Jesus, right when I thought Chiyo was going to finally do something.
Rich Russillo: DESPITE THAT CHOP ECHOING THROUGHOUT THE ARENA, IT STILL DOESNT HAVE MUCH EFFECT ON CHIYO, WHO SHRUGS IT OFF! PROMPTING OCTAVIA TO HIT A KICK TO THE GUT, AND SHE SENDS CHIYO BACK TO THE PREVIOUS CORNER WITH AN IRISH WHIP-
Persephone: Might want to correct yourself.
Rich Russillo: YES, AS CHIYO TURNS IT AROUND LAST MINUTE! WHIPPING OCTAVIA TO THE CORNER INSTEAD! CHIYO RUSHES IN! BUT OCTAVIA BLOCKS WHATEVER HE HAD PLANNED WITH A BACK ELBOW! CHIYO RAN RIGHT INTO IT, AND STAGGERS BACK AS A RESULT!
Persephone: Octavia moves with the most speed I’ve seen her as she exits through the middle rope, and climbs to the top rope.
Rich Russillo: BUT WE DONT GET TO SEE WHAT OCTAVIA WAS GOING FOR AS CHIYO CHARGES HER ON THE TOP ROPE! HOWEVER, OCTAVIA LEAPS OVERHEAD, AND ROLLS THROUGH TO HER FEET! BUT CHIYO QUICKLY SHOOTS OUT THE CORNER, FEIGNING A BIG BOOT, AND GOES FOR A SPINNING BACK ELBOW INSTEAD!
Persephone: But Octavia ducks underneath it, and runs toward the ropes.
Rich Russillo: AND CHIYO CATCHES HER WITH A CLOTHESLINE OVER THE TOP ROPE AS SHE WENT TO REBOUND OFF! BOTH COMPETITORS GO FLYING OVER, SPILLING TO THE OUTSIDE!
Persephone: Chiyo lands on his feet, and Octavia is already stirring up to all fours.
Rich Russillo: Chiyo approaches Octavia, and pulls her back up to a vertical base. Gedo is eyeing a corner of the barricade, and went to whip Octavia towards it- BUT OCTAVIA WRINGS THE ARM OF GEDO TO COUNTER, AND SLAPS HIS HAND AWAY TO BREAK THE GRIP! CHIYO SWINGS WILDLY WITH ANOTHER CLOTHESLINE TO THE HEAD OF OCTAVIA!
Persephone: But Octavia ducks underneath it, and rolls into the ring like a pussy!
Rich Russillo: Octavia gestures for Chiyo to enter the ring, and it’s smart, because she has the high ground. If Chiyo does go to enter the ring, then Octavia can easily pounce on top of him.
Persephone: It’s not like he has all day either. If Chiyo doesn’t enter the ring, then he gets counted out. Which… now that I think of it, Chiyo should not play into Octavia’s trap! I say, he stays out there all night if he wants to!
Rich Russillo: Nice try, Persephone. But Chiyo isn’t going to just allow himself to be counted out like that, especially because we understand the drive and hunger he has in order to take that next step in his career.
(Chiyo thinks about it for a while on the outside before deciding to take a breath, and bites the bullet, sliding into the ring anyway.)
Rich Russillo: AND THERE IT IS! OCTAVIA POUNCES ON CHIYO IMMEDIATELY WITH A DOUBLE AXE HANDLE TO THE BACK BEFORE HE COULD EVEN RISE UP FROM ALL FOURS! OCTAVIA DOESNT STOP THERE, STOMPING ONTO THE BACK OF CHIYO, AND AGAIN DOES ANOTHER DOUBLE AXE HANDLE TO THE BACK!
Persephone: What an idiot, should have just stayed out the ring.
Rich Russillo: Octavia grabs a hold of Chiyo’s head, and drags him back up to a vertical base! Octavia directs Chiyo to the corner, and slams him FACE FIRST OFF THE TOP TURNBUCKLE! THEN FOLLOWS IT UP WITH A KNIFE EDGE CHOP TO THE CHEST! AND ANOTHER! …ANOTHER!
Persephone: Jeez, do something different.
Rich Russillo: CHIYO GOES TO FIRE BACK WITH A KNIFE EDGE CHOP TO THE CHEST! LOOKING TO FIGHT HIS WAY THE CORNER- BUT OCTAVIA SAW IT COMING, AND DUCKED UNDERNEATH! CATCHING HIM WITH A KNIFE EDGE CHOP ACROSS THE CHEST, STUNNING HIM FOR A SIDE HEADLOCK TAKEDOWN!
Persephone: Oh fuckin brother.
Rich Russillo: Earlier, I mentioned Chiyo’s power and striking ability, but said that Octavia might have the mental edge. Well, I forgot to mention the speed advantage too, because she’s done a great job at eluding some bombs from Chiyo.
Persephone: God, I’m almost begging for Chiyo to crack her in the mouth at this point. Seriously, making me sit through another hold.
Rich Russillo: Chiyo powers to a knee in the side headlock, and Octavia rises to hers as well, maintaining control over Chiyo with the side headlock.
Persephone: Finally, Chiyo returns to his feet, and bounces Octavia off the ropes to escape!
Rich Russillo: OCTAVIA REBOUNDS BACK WITH A SHOULDER TACKLE- BUT THATS NOT ENOUGH TO FLOOR CHIYO, WHO STANDS HIS GROUND!
Persephone: Don’t know why she’d think that would work.
Rich Russillo: Octavia seems a little annoyed that it didn’t, and runs off the ropes! Building momentum for another- BUT CHIYO DROPS DOWN, FORCING OCTAVIA TO HURDLE OVER HIM! CHIYO POPS TO HIS FEET AS OCTAVIA BOUNCES OFF THE ROPES AGAIN, AND LEAPFROGS OVER HER!
Persephone: But Octavia halts her momentum behind him, and spins around as Chiyo charges toward the ropes himself.
Rich Russillo: OCTAVIA WENT FOR A LEAPFROG- BUT CHIYO BIG BOOTS HER OUT OF THE SKY! BUT RUNNING OFF PURE INSTINCT, OCTAVIA IS QUICKLY BACK TO HER FEET! WANDERING RIGHT INTO A KNIFE EDGE CHOP THAT FLOORS HER! CHIYO IMMEDIATELY DROPS INTO A COVER!
ONNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWW-
Rich Russillo: KICKOUT! OCTAVIA STILL HAS ENOUGH WHEREWITHAL TO STAY IN THIS THING!
Persephone: Dammit.
Rich Russillo: Chiyo grabs a handful of hair, and drags Octavia back to her feet. CHIYO CRACKS OCTAVIA WITH A RIGHT HAND, STAGGERING OCTAVIA BACK INTO THE CORNER! CHIYO CLOSES IN, AND SCORES WITH ANOTHER KNIFE EDGE CHOP TO THE CHEST! BUT OCTAVIA FIGHTS BACK WITH ONE OF HER OWN!
Persephone: Only to get immediately knocked back into the corner with a knife edge chop from Chiyo in response.
Rich Russillo: Chiyo grabs hold of Octavia’s wrist, and WHIPS her to the opposite corner! BUT OCTAVIA SLIDES UNDERNEATH THE BOTTOM ROPE INSTEAD, AVOIDING A COLLISION INTO THE TURNBUCKLES!
(Octavia wags her finger, taunting the audience as she rounds the ringpost ringside-)
Persephone: Whoa-
Rich Russillo: CHIYO FLIES THROUGH THE MIDDLE ROPE WITH A SUICIDE DIVE ONTO OCTAVIA! CHIYO JUST BLASTED INTO HER LIKE A TORPEDO, AND QUICKLY SENDS OCTAVIA BACK INSIDE THE RING!
Persephone: Chiyo starts to slide in himself-
Rich Russillo: BUT OCTAVIA POPS BACK TO HER FEET, DASHING STRAIGHT TOWARDS THE ROPES! CHIYO MOVES INTO A DROPDOWN, TRYING TO TRIP OCTAVIA UP! BUT OCTAVIA LEAPS OVER IT, AND BOUNCES OFF THE ROPES AS CHIYO POPS TO HIS FEET! THEN USES THE MOMENTUM OF OCTAVIA AGAINST IT WITH A BLUE THUNDER BOMB, SCOOPING HER UP FOR IT!
Persephone: YES!
Rich Russillo: CHIYO HOLDS IT FOR A COVER AS THE REFEREE STARTS COUNTING!
ONNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOO!!
THH-
Rich Russillo: SHOULDER UP! OCTAVIA GOT THE SHOULDER UP!
Persephone: Chiyo checks with the referee, wanting to verify if that was truly a two count or not, and you know what? I’m with him. It looked like a three to me.
Rich Russillo: I don’t know, I think the referee made the right call with-
Persephone: Die.
Rich Russillo: :comeagain:
Persephone: Hm? I didn’t say anything.
Rich Russillo: Are you sure, because it sounded like-
Persephone: Shut up, and call the match!
Rich Russillo: Right… Chiyo stands Octavia back up, and sends her into the corner. CHIYO CHARGES IN WITH A RUNNING CORNER CLOTHESLINE, AND RUNS OFF THE ROPES AS OCTAVIA COMES STAGGERING OUT THE CORNER SLIGHTLY! BUT OCTAVIA USES THE MOMENTUM AGAINST HIM WITH A DROP TOE HOLD!
Persephone: Chiyo is struggling to breathe as he gasps for air on the canvas.
Rich Russillo: Meanwhile, a sick smirk has formed on the face of Octavia, knowing she has Chiyo right where she wants him as Gedo crawls towards the corner, pulling himself up with assistance from the ropes.
Persephone: Octavia marches toward Chiyo in the corner, and climbs to the middle rope.
Rich Russillo: AND LOOK AT THIS! OCTAVIA IS BITING THE FOREHEAD OF CHIYO! REFEREE GIVES OCTAVIA TIL THE COUNT OF FIVE!
Referee: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR!
Rich Russillo: FINALLY, OCTAVIA RELENTS!
Persephone: I was kind of hoping she’d go til five.
Rich Russillo: Octavia drops the middle rope, and whips Chiyo to the opposite corner! CHIYO ALMOST WENT STERNUM FIRST, BUT HALTED HIS MOMENTUM! OCTAVIA RUNS IN- AND GETS CAUGHT WITH A BACK KICK FROM CHIYO! DOUBLING OCTAVIA OVER, AND CHIYO SPRINGBOARDS OFF THE MIDDLE ROPE IN THE CORNER FOR A SUNSET FLIP!
Persephone: Nope.
Rich Russillo: OCTAVIA ROLLS THROUGH TO HER FEET, AND HOOKS BOTH LEGS OF GEDO FOR A BOSTON CRAB! SHE CALLS THIS TAP BITCH!
Persephone: But she’s struggling to roll Chiyo over onto his belly,
Rich Russillo: AND GETS OVERPOWERED BY GEDO, CAUSING HER TO FRONT FLIP ONTO HER BACK! BOTH COMPETITORS SCRAMBLE BACK TO THEIR FEET, AND CHIYO LEAPS UP FOR A JUMPING DDT! SPIKING OCTAVIA ONTO HER HEAD! CHIYO QUICKLY MOVES INTO THE COVER, HOOKING THE LEG AFTER FATAL HEAD TRAUMA!
ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHHHHHHHRRRRRRRRR-
Rich Russillo: SHOULDER UP! OCTAVIA POPS THE SHOULDER UP, AND CHIYO GEDO IS SHOCKED! BELIEVING HE HAD OCTAVIA BEAT RIGHT THEN AND THERE! BUT THAT SHOCK QUICKLY TURNS TO A LOCK OF DETERMINATION AS HE GESTURES FOR THE END!
Persephone: Chiyo drags Octavia back up, and here’s hoping he’s right about the whole this being the end thing.
Rich Russillo: BUT OCTAVIA SHOWS SOME FIGHT, SHOVING CHIYO BACK! OCTAVIA GOES FOR A CLOTHESLINE! BUT CHIYO DUCKS UNDERNEATH IT, AND CATCHES HER WITH A KNIFE EDGE CHOP AS SHE SPINS AROUND! CHIYO BACKS HER UP AGAINST THE ROPES FOR AN IRISH WHIP, AND FLOORS OCTAVIA WITH A BIG CLOTHESLINE AS SHE COMES REBOUNDING BACK!
Persephone: Octavia rushes back to her feet-
Rich Russillo: THEN GETS CAUGHT WITH ANOTHER CLOTHESLINE! OCTAVIA STIRS BACK TO HER FEET, AND CHIYO BACKS HER AGAINST THE ROPES FOR AN IRISH WHIP- BAM! DROPKICK AS OCTAVIA CAME REBOUNDING BACK!
Persephone: For some reason, Chiyo moves into the cover.
ONNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHHHHHH-
Persephone: Big surprise, she kicks out.
Rich Russillo: But that was close for Chiyo! He almost had the victory there. Octavia starts stirring, rolling onto her side, and Chiyo grabs her from behind! Locking his arms around the waist of Octavia as he pulls her back up to a vertical base!
Persephone: It’s clear he’s going for a german-
Rich Russillo: BUT OCTAVIA COUNTERS IT WITH A VICTORY ROLL, AND DOESNT HOLD IT FOR THE COVER! ROLLING THROUGH TO HER FEET FOR A SUPERKICK AS CHIYO SITS UP ON THE CANVAS! SIGNATURE SUPERKICK BY OCTAVIA AS SHE FALLS INTO THE COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHHHHHHHRRRRRRRRREEEEEEE-
Rich Russillo: SHOULDER UP! CHIYO GETS THE SHOULDER UP, AND OCTAVIA SITS UP, CONTEMPLATING HER NEXT MOVE AGAINST HIM BEFORE-
Persephone: CRUCIFIX PIN! LET THIS BE IT!
Rich Russillo; CHIYO SURPRISES OCTAVIA WITH A CRUCIFIX PIN!
ONNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHH-
Rich Russillo: KICKOUT! BOTH COMPETITORS SCRAMBLE TO THEIR FEET, AND OCTAVIA LUNGES FOR CHIYO! ONLY FOR HIM TO SLIP BEHIND HER FOR A SCHOOL BOY!
ONNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHH-
Rich Russillo: AGAIN, KICKOUT! BOTH COMPETITORS ARE QUICKLY BACK TO THEIR FEET, AND OCTAVIA DELIVERS A KICK TO THE MIDSECTION BEFORE PULLING CHIYO INTO A FRONT FACELOCK! KICKING OFF THE TOP TURNBUCKLE FOR A SPIKE TORNADO DDT!
Persephone: Chiyo Gedo has a dumber expression on his face than usual as he jolts up to a seated position, so I take it he’s seeing stars.
Rich Russillo: BUT RUNNING OFF INSTINCT AS HE MAKES IT BACK TO HIS FEET! ALMOST GETTING CAUGHT WITH A CANADIAN CODEBREAKER BY OCTAVIA! BUT CHIYO HOLDS HER IN PLACE, BLOCKING THE MANUEVER FROM CONNECTING, AND SITS OCTAVIA ON THE TOP ROPE BEFORE SHOVING HER-
Persephone: Oh, what the-
Rich Russillo: CHIYO SHOVED OCTAVIA, BUT WHILE FALLING BACK, SHE DID HER LEGS HOOKED UNDERNEATH HIS ARMS, SENDING BOTH COMPETITORS TUMBLING UP AND OVER THE TOP ROPE! OCTAVIA TAKING CHIYO WITH HER!
Persephone: And both competitors are down as the referee begins counting.
Referee: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR! FIVE!
Rich Russillo: That was quite a spill they took. I don’t blame either for being out of it.
Referee: SIX! SEVEN! EIGHT! NINE!
Rich Russillo: Octavia pulls herself up to a knee with assistance from our apron! Meanwhile, Chiyo uses help from our announcers table-
Referee: …TEN!
(DING! DING! DING!)
Bella Braxton: LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, AS A RESULT OF A DOUBLE COUNTOUT… THIS MATCH HAS BEEN RULED A NO CONTEST!
(The crowd boos as Octavia collapses down a seated position on the outside, leaned up against the apron. Meanwhile, Chiyo clutches his side, staring a hole into Octavia as he leans up against the announce table.)
Persephone: I prayed for this, and it happened.
Rich Russillo: You might have, but I don’t think the EAW Universe did!
Persephone: Who cares?! It’s finally over!
Rich Russillo: By a double count out, and neither competitor seem glad about that.
Persephone: Welp. Shoulda beat the count.
Rich Russillo: Seemed like they were close to, but just quick enough, that fall they both took having done some serious damage. You hate to see a match end like this, but…
Persephone: But nothing! Hahahaha, it’s over!
(The referee exits the ring, checking on Chiyo first before going over to Octavia, who refuses his help, and stands herself back up to a vertical base, staggering to the back as the camera fades elsewhere with both Chiyo and Octavia looking pissed at the way things went.)
(Sunday Night Voltage returns to a shot of the backstage area of the Utilita Arena Newcastle, as the crowd murmurs in anticipation, with the shot focusing on an isolated area of the hallways. It pans outward, and it’s revealed to be the three members of The British Invasion all standing by. The Unified Tag Team Champions, Halsey Neel and Pandora Paisley, are seen sitting on a production crate, while a serious-looking Daryl Kinkade is seen leaning against a wall, crossing his arms and looking down at the ground. In contrast, though, Halsey and Pandora look quite satisfied with themselves and everything that has happened these past couple of months; they have no reason to complain when they’re at the very top of the tag division. After some time, Pandora begins to open her mouth as she begins to speak.)
Pandora Paisley: Well, I’d say that was a bloody eventful Grand Rampage Marquee Event, wasn’t it, Halsey?
Halsey Neel: Indeed. I’ll say I was quite enamored by your little dramatic fiasco. :mjlol:
Pandora Paisley: :francis:
Halsey Neel: But what matters most is the fact that we got the job done. Against whom you could consider the toughest challenge in our entire reign, we beat one of the strongest teams that this division had to offer in the form of Elysium. I’ll certainly give them some credit for putting up a fight, but what matters is the fact that these titles are still around our waist, and we have to focus on what matters and that’s making sure that it stays that way for the rest of this season, and seeing how much we’ve already proven by being the fighting Champions that we promise to be, I don’t think that’s as difficult of a task as they make it out to be.
Pandora Paisley: The goal has always been not just to walk into Pain For Pride as the Unified Tag Team Champions, but to walk out of it that way as well, and we’re not backing down from any challenge no matter how big or how small, and I suppose that leads to the two people that we have to address that has seemingly stepped up to the plate for us.
(Pandora turns her head toward Halsey, who looks at her with a confident grin on their face, both of them unwavering in their resolve despite the tough challenge that was put out to them. They then look back to the camera as Halsey begins to speak once more.)
Halsey Neel: Fire & Ice, Rex McAllister and Raven Roberts, I don’t believe that I need to go through everything that they have accomplished, do I, love?
Pandora Paisley: Not, we know how good singles competitors that they are, equally as good as a tag team as well.
Halsey Neel: But not good enough. They already had an opportunity at the Unified Tag Team Championships this season when they faced The Jaded Hearts, and even when they came up short, they put their foot on the gas pedal and tried to show that it wasn’t over for them. That no matter what came in their way, no matter what put them down, they would still be in the picture, so I can’t help but admit that I expected them to slither their way into challenging for our titles. But in case there was any doubt, let me make it very clear right now that we have spent our entire reign not only accepting challenges but welcoming them. The British Invasion has faced challenges from everywhere that there could be one, from our homeland of Voltage, to Dynasty and Showdown as well. We have more than welcomed the competition that would come, and we will continue to do that. This challenge from Fire & Ice is no different.
Pandora Paisley: However, with that in mind, Rex and Raven need to understand the type of competition that they’re going to be up against. I understand the mentality of going after these titles no matter who’s wearing them, but I think we both know that Fire & Ice has never faced a team like The British Invasion. They need to understand exactly how far we’ve come as a tag team before they get into the ring with us, because things are different. They won’t be facing the Halsey Neel and Pandora Paisley, who were members of Devolution. If that were the case, then we wouldn’t be Tag Team Champions in the first place. Love, we are in a whole other league of our own, and so many before us have tried to play catch-up, but we continuously raise the bar in terms of what it means to be a tag team, and so far, nobody has reached us.
Halsey Neel: We just had to beat the very best to win these titles, and to retain this title these past couple of months we have gone through hell, we’ve had to give it everything that we’ve got, and most importantly, we’ve had to do some very difficult things, such as what we just had to go through at the Grand Rampage Marquee Event last week. This is no exception if we stand across the ring from you, and I think we both know that we’re going to make sure that we walk out of this with another notch under our belts and our titles in tow.
Pandora Paisley: We accept your challenge, Fire & Ice, and we look forward to facing the two of you at Fighting Spirit in a couple of weeks, but we don’t plan to be robbed of a Pain For Pride moment, we don’t plan to let up when we’re already so close to getting there in the first place. We’re going to do everything it takes to make sure that the plan doesn’t change, and if we have to ruin the two of your chances of fighting for these titles at the event, then so be it, but just know that it was all for the sake of making sure that The British Invasion thrives to the fullest, and the only way that we can do that is by staying Champions.
(Both Halsey and Pandora look proudly as they have their titles over their shoulders, making one helluva statement toward their now confirmed future challengers at Fighting Spirit, but not everyone is in the best of moods. The camera goes over to Daryl Kinkade, who has stayed silent the entire time, clearly unhappy that he lost to Michael Machina last week at Grand Rampage. He takes a moment to think about what he’s going to say, before turning over and looking at the two of them and opening his mouth.)
Daryl Kinkade: Let me say right now that I’m glad to see how far the two of you have come. Both of you are great Unified Tag Team Champions, and I’m holding onto the fact that it’s going to stay that way beyond Fighting Spirit and Pain For Pride. But bruv, things should be different right now. We should not only be Unified Tag Team Champions, but we should also have the EAW World Championships in our possession. I made a promise, and that promise was making sure that all of The British Invasion was holding Championship gold, and I failed by losing to Michael Machina. I wish I could stand here and be more positive about all of this, bruv, I wish I could be as happy as the two of you are right now, but I can’t help but think that I’m lost right now. The Pain For Pride window is slowly beginning to close, and I have no idea how I’m going to be able to salvage my season from here.
Halsey Neel: Mate, don’t think that way. If you think that we’re going to let you stand here and make a bloody fool out of yourself just because you lost a couple of matches, then you thought wrong; it’s not over for you yet.
Pandora Paisley: You saw what we both went through, you saw the struggles that we had to overcome to make sure that we have these Championships. It’s not easy, but most importantly, those are the growing pains of being an Elitist. I believe that it’s not over for you yet, and there is so much for you to look toward especially with how hard you’ve been working. You are going to be a World Champion, Daryl, don’t beat yourself up over it.
(Daryl thinks about it for a moment before sighing, shaking his head briefly.)
Daryl Kinkade: Thank you, I’ll take the time to think about it. I’ll figure something out, because one thing I know is that I don’t plan on letting this season end poorly. I’m going to get back on track, and not only am I going to thrive as a result of that, but the entirety of The British Invasion is going to thrive as well; that’s my promise.
(Daryl nods his head as he turns around and makes his way out of the scene, Halsey and Pandora looking at each other, quite satisfied with his response, before standing up and following him. It’s the last shot seen before Sunday Night Voltage, then, begins to fade out to elsewhere.)
(Promotional ad for Fighting Spirit, where the British Invasion defend the Unified Tag Team Championships against Fire & Ice.)
(The scene fades back into the sleek, dimly lit office of Eden Sinclair and Captain Charisma. The tension in the room is already palpable, the tail end of a private discussion hanging in the air like smoke. A sudden knock at the door slices through the silence, drawing their attention instantly.)
Captain Charisma: Come in.
(The door opens and KASAI steps into the office. She does not seem pleased to be here. Eden Sinclair and Captain Charisma share a quick glance, both rising to their feet instinctively. They motion toward the chairs across from them, but KASAI doesn’t move.)
KASAI: You called me here?
Captain Charisma: Yeah we did. We have to talk about what happened at Grand Rampage KASAI. Now, this is a very serious discussion. One that I have not been looking forward to.
KASAI: What is there to talk about?
Eden Sinclair: Let me ask you something KASAI. Do you realize what you did?
KASAI: Nothing that I regret.
Captain Charisma: Nothing that you regret? KASAI, you are not taking this as seriously as you should. What you did out there was reckless. It was dangerous. Honestly, it might be considered stupid. See, Methuselah had you on a stretcher. The paramedics were called because it was determined that you were in no place to continue the match. But what did you? Instead of complying…instead of getting the help that you need…you ran back in. You ignored the official and us.
Eden Sinclair: We didn’t come down to that ring because we wanted to. We weren’t out there to interfere for the sake of drama. We were there because we had no choice. You were pushing your body past its limit, and you weren’t listening to anyone. What happens if you get hurt? Did you think about that for even a second? In fact, you could not even stand on your own by the end.
KASAI: I thought about it. And I made my choice. It was my match. My risk to take. You had no business stepping in. You don’t get to make that decision for me. I’m not a rookie. I’m not someone who needs to be coddled. And I’ll say it again…I have no regrets. I was not going to be denied that chance.
Captain Charisma: So you would have been content with that choice? A choice that could have possibly meant that you were injured. Because that is what you were looking at there. You were staring down the barrel at being out for the entire Pain for Pride season. We were down there because you were clearly unable to make that call for yourself. And what did you do? You gave us the finger. You tried your hardest to ignore us when we were there for your safety. This is the type of reckless behavior that ends careers.
Eden Sinclair: Again, we were concerned. I know that you don’t want to miss Pain for Pride. It is the biggest event of the year. But you have to understand why we aren’t happy. On our end, we have a show to plan. We have an event that needs our very best Elitists.
Captain Charisma: You’re one of the most talented individuals on this roster…nobody’s denying that. You’ve earned your spot here. You’ve held gold, and that speaks volumes. But talent doesn’t mean a damn thing if you burn yourself out before the lights even come on. You want to be the best? Then start acting like someone who wants a future in this business.
(A heavy silence lingers between them. KASAI doesn’t back down. But she does look to change the subject.)
KASAI: Is there more to this? There has be another reason that you have called me here. Unless you did just want this chance to scold me. You are not going to get me to change my stance on this. I had to keep going. No matter what. I was not going to let it end by someone else carrying me out. That is not who I am. It was not what I was ever going to do.
Captain Charisma: We understand that. Believe me, we see this type of determination in wrestlers all the time. But at the end of the day, the behavior was still reckless. It was ballsy for sure. But sometimes, you have to worry about your future. That future was in jeopardy there. We are not talking about just the next few months. Right, there is a bigger picture here. There is a career that could have been cut short. All because you were stubborn.
KASAI: That is what I was thinking about. Defeating Methuselah was necessary to that big picture. It was a statement that needed to be made. You have to understand, that meant so much. There is nothing that was going to stop me. NOTHING. If I was crawling into that ring, I would have done so. I had to do it. I don’t need you to understand that. But if I was put in that same position again, I would do it the same way. I would not change any of my actions. The only thing I regret is not winning.
(There is a tense moment here. KASAI is extremely defensive. Captain Charisma and Eden Sinclair look like they want to speak more on the issue but decide to hold their tongues for now.)
Eden Sinclair: No, as much as we want to discuss this…there is more. Like we said, we need our best Elitists at Pain for Pride. As much as the end of that match was problematic, you proved yourself. You went toe to toe with Methuselah and did amazing. You fought like hell…and then some. You should be proud of that performance. Despite the risk that you took onto yourself of course.
Captain Charisma: And I can’t say that I wouldn’t have taken the same risk :troll:.
(KASAI rolls her eyes but there is a hint of a smile.)
KASAI: I was wondering when you’d stop being a hoodie Mr. Greatest Hardcore Champion of all-time.
Captain Charisma: Like we said earlier, Pain for Pride is coming up fast. And we need our best in the spotlight…not just physically ready, but mentally locked in. You were incredible… but you nearly destroyed yourself in the process. You have to find that balance, KASAI. Because what you gave us at Grand Rampage? It was incredible. It was.
KASAI: Obviously. The way you built this all up made it seem like you were disappointed in me.
Eden Sinclair: That’s something you’re incapable of, KASAI. You frustrate us, sure. But disappoint? No. Not with the way you performed out there. We’re not asking you to dull the blade…we’re asking you to sharpen it. Be smarter with how you swing it. Because whether you believe it or not, you’ve already proven you’re capable of something extraordinary. That should be rewarded.
Captain Charisma: And that’s why we’ve been talking behind the scenes. We’ve got something specific in mind for you…something fitting of the chaos you bring, and the level you’ve reached.
Eden Sinclair: A very specific opportunity.
Captain Charisma: Regardless of the outcome at Grand Rampage, you showed up. You stood toe to toe with a legend. And you didn’t blink. That’s not something we take lightly. So we’re not just offering you a spot at Pain for Pride… we’re offering you the main event. At the very least a chance to be in it.
KASAI: This has to be a joke. First, I get dragged in here and lectured like a schoolgirl… and now you’re just gonna hand me the main event. I wonder what sort of catch there is to this.
Captain Charisma: No one said “hand”. No, like any opportunity here on Voltage, you have to earn it. You have to prove that you want it. There is no catch, just a match.
Eden Sinclair: Like we said… the win didn’t matter as much as the fight. And you gave us everything we needed to see. More than that, you showed everyone what you’re capable of. That kind of resilience, that kind of ferocity…it deserves the biggest stage we have to offer.
KASAI: So…then what is the opportunity? What do I have to do? Who do I have to beat?
Captain Charisma: Well, you are going to have the chance to compete in a No Way out match. The winner of this match will compete for the Universal Women’s Championship at Pain for Pride. If you can beat every other woman in this match, then you will have punched your ticket into that main event. Clearly this is a wonderful opportunity.
Eden Sinclair: This is going to be that chance you need. We believe that you can do this. After everything we have seen from you this season, you are more than deserving of this chance. All you do know is prove that you belong in the main event.
KASAI: This…is acceptable. I will defeat anyone you put between me and that main event. It doesn’t matter who it is. This is not an opportunity that is going to slip through my fingers. I am going to take it. By any means necessary.
Captain Charisma: We expect nothing less from you. Good luck.
(There is a satisfied look on the face of KASAI as she heads out of the office. She exits and we fade elsewhere.)
(The camera cuts backstage to Sofia Clarke in the interview area with a smile on her face while holding an EAW-branded microphone as the crowd can be heard cheering slightly in the background. Sofia doesn’t take long to speak up, and address the camera.)
Sofia Clarke: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time… EAW Hall of Famer… Xander Payne.
(Xander Payne walks with a slight limp into frame, wearing street clothes, and garnering a mixed reaction from the fans, which Xander takes a moment to acknowledge as he looks around. He’s certainly feeling the effects from his match with Limmy as he rubs the back of his neck, no doubt sore from the Paynekiller atop of the steel step. His expression can best be described as a mix of both anger and disappointment.)
Sofia Clarke: Xander, it’s been a week since your hellacious Last Man Standing match with Limmy Monaghan at Grand Rampage where, as expected, you two threw everything but the kitchen sink at each other, even getting glass to fly in your face. First things first, how are you feeling?
(Xander lets the question simmer for a while as he thinks to himself, continuing to rub the back of his neck to deal with the soreness.)
Xander Payne: Well, Sofia… it’d depend what you mean by that. If you’re talking physically, I’m not great. In fact, I’m struggling to stand right now, and even get interviewed by you, because Limmy did that much of a number on me. I was busted open, and like you mentioned, had glass fly into my face, which… the doctors said came dangerously close to my eye. But emotionally, however… I’d be lying to say I’m not angry. I’m disappointed from failing to put Monaghan away, and giving him exactly what he deserved after everything we’ve been through together.
Sofia Clarke: Speaking of everything you’ve been through… where to start? Because it began with something so simple as Limmy abandoning you in the six-person tag match versus The British Invasion, then evolved into home invasions, surprise attacks, and multiple attempts to end the other’s career. While Grand Rampage was regarded by most as the end of this storied rivalry, I have to ask the man himself… is it? Are things between you and Limmy Monaghan officially over?
(Xander cracks a half hearted smirk as he ponders over this question, shaking his head.)
Xander Payne: Sofia, I don’t think things will ever truly be over between Limmy and myself, especially because Limmy still has some things to work out on his end mentally, whether that be insecurity, paranoia, or the multiple other complexes he has. Sure, he won, but he didn’t exactly win. You get what I’m saying?
(Sofia looks a little confused, which he picks up on, and Xander goes to elaborate further.)
Xander Payne: Alright, I can see you’re a little confused, so let me explain. Limmy might have beaten me, and “won” the rivalry, but he doesn’t get to put me in the rear view mirror like most people think either. Because he can’t allow himself to do it. He’s obsessed. After Road to Redemption, I tried to wipe my hands clean, and retire, but what does he do? He drags me back into this. By the way, Limmy didn’t have to. He could have easily healed from his wounds, and chased after the World Championship, but no. Like you mentioned, he invades my home, beats me up in front of my children, then elbows my wife, and I was in a similar position to you after King of Elite. I thought it was over between Limmy and I. I came back, not for revenge, but to make my kids happy by competing in a match they really wanted to see, which was me versus Solomon Stane.
(Xander takes a deep breath, feeling himself getting further riled up as he recaps events.)
Xander Payne: It was a great match too. Solomon Stane put up one hell of a fight, and had me towards the end there. But while he didn’t flip the switch that electrocuted both me and my wife together at the same time, you know who did? Limmy Monaghan. So, to answer your question, Sofia, I guess the story of him and I really being over is up to one man… Limmy Monaghan. Because I’ve already moved on.
(Xander rubs his chin, thinking to himself.)
Xander Payne: Though, if I’m to voice displeasure about anything, it’s not that I lost. It’s not that Limmy Monaghan dumped me onto my head and neck. It’s that my family were front row, and had to witness it all.
(Sofia tries to approach this topic delicately.)
Sofia Clarke: Xander, no offense, but… some are saying that’s… kind of your fault. You brought them out there in the first place, so the rest of it was kinda… fair game?
(Xander nods, respecting her honesty, despite being upset still about what transpired.)
Xander Payne: Fair. I’ll give you that. I allowed them to show up, and get some revenge on their own. Because let’s be honest, they deserved it after everything Limmy put them through as well. But I didn’t account for the fact that Limmy would beat me. In fact, the thought never crossed my mind. I entered that match confident, expecting to end his career, and wanted my family to be there for such catharsis. But losing has invigorated something within me, a want to redeem myself after that didn’t happen, and hopefully make it up to them.
Sofia Clarke: Okay, so any idea as to how you’ll do that?
(Xander simply shrugs his shoulders.)
Xander Payne: Ya know, Sofia, I’ve been putting some thought into it, but… nothing concrete as of yet.
Sofia Clarke: Well, Pain for Pride is coming up…
(The crowd cheers can be heard in the background as they want to see Xander Payne compete at another. Xander does take a second to acknowledge it, and forms a smile as the gears start turning in his head.)
Xander Payne: Oh, I see what you’re getting at, Sofia.
Sofia Clarke: Just saying. I mean… last year, you didn’t get the opportunity to compete, given you were at a similar crossroads to the one you’ve been at this season, contemplating if you’d like to retire or not. But, it sounds like you’ve got a couple more matches in you. :mjgrin:
Xander Payne: You’re right, Sofia, and you raise an interesting point as well. Because I didn’t get to compete at Pain for Pride last year, did I? The last time I did was with Ryan Wilson in a losing effort. I don’t want that to be my last Pain for Pride appearance, and judging from their reactions, I don’t think they want it to be my last Pain for Pride either. If I’m to ask Historia and Maximus, they’d say the same.
Xander Payne: So, you’ve got me thinking, Sofia. About my future… about how I’m going to make it up to my family after getting demolished in front of their very eyes… and it’s going to be Pain for Pride.
(The crowd cheers as Xander takes a brief pause, but he keeps going, the determination being clear in his voice.)
Xander Payne: That’s right, I’m going to Pain for Pride 18, and the reason why is simple. It’s for my family. It’s for them to see me compete at the event maybe one last time, and leave an impact not only that I’m proud of, but they’re proud of as well. That’s it.
(Xander seems to be growing excited at the prospect of competing at Pain for Pride once again, nodding to himself repeatedly as he finds it the best place to redeem himself in his family’s eyes.)
Sofia Clarke: So, there you have it! Xander Payne will compete at Pain for Pride 18, but I’m curious… is there any idea as to… against who?
Xander Payne: See, that’s the thing, Sofia. I don’t know. Nor does anyone really unless you’re Drake King. But as it stands, Pain for Pride is unpredictable at the moment, and anything could happen. Just the right opportunity has to reveal itself. So, I don’t know my Pain for Pride plans… yet. But I imagine the path will become clear very shortly, and my family now have something to look forward to. Pain for Pride, I’m going to redeem myself, and I’ll do it at the expense of whoever is unfortunate enough to stand across the ring from me.
(Xander gives a focused stare into the camera, directing a threat towards the entire locker room before walking off, leaving Sofia Clarke on her own.)
Sofia Clarke: Strong words from EAW Hall of Famer, Xander Payne, who we just found out to be competing at Pain for Pride 18. I look forward to finding out against who, but until then… I’m Sofia Clarke, signing off.
(Sofia Clarke continues to stands there, smiling as the camera fades elsewhere.)
(Voltage returns to ringside.)
Bella Braxton: THE FOLLOWING CONTEST IS A TAG TEAM MATCH SCHEDULED FOR ONE-FALL!
Crowd: ONE FALL!!!!
(‘Rubber Band Man’ by T.I. begins to play as Damien Kutcher comes walking out onto the stage. There is a mixed reaction from the crowd but he is still looking determined.)
Bella Braxton: INTRODUCING FIRST…FROM ATLANTA, GEORGIA…WEIGHING IN AT 240 POUNDS…HE IS “THE DIVINE ONE”…DAAAMMIIIEEENNN KUUTTCCHHHER!
(He stands on the entrance ramp getting hyped up. “Catch Me If You Can” by runblebee begins to play and he tenses up. Akari Kiyoko comes walking out onto the stage with Luna Adeline in tow. Him and Kutcher exchange a glance as he emerges.)
Bella Braxton: AND HIS PARTNER…ACCOMPANIED TO THE RING BY LUNA ADELINE…FROM AOMORI, JAPAN…WEIGHING IN AT 187 POUNDS…HE IS “THE FLAW OF THE WORLD”…AKKKAAARRIIII KKIIIYOOOKKKOOO!
Rich Russillo: These two have had their issues in recent weeks, and we probably saw the worst of it back at Grand Rampage last week. Still, I’m sure they don’t want to lose tonight, especially knowing they want Bethany’s Hardcore Championship.
Persephone: Well they both suck so I’m not expecting much from them. That Luna chick came in and didn’t add anything to this useless partnership.
(The two partners then proceed down the ramp. They seem to be talking some strategy on the way down but there seems to be some level of disagreement. They get inside and keep talking as “Juno” by Sabrina Carpenter plays. The crowd descends into boos as Ashlynn Quinn struts out looking confident as ever.)
Bella Braxton: AND THEIR OPPONENTS…FIRST…FROM LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA…WEIGHING IN AT 115 POUNDS…SHE IS MISSS VOLLLLTAGGGEEE…ASSSHLLLYNNNN QUIIINNN!
(Ashlynn poses on the stage, waving out to the crowd as they send ill-will her way. “Gloria” by The London Symphony Orchestra begins to play as Bea Valentine enters. The crowd cheers as loudly as they possibly can for her. She holds the title up proudly.)
Bella Braxton: AND HER PARTNER…FROM BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS…WEIGHING IN AT 143 POUNDS…SHE IS THE EAW UNIVERSAL WOMEN’S CHAMPION…”THE ETERNAL EMPRESS”…BEEEAAA VALLLEEENNNTTTIINNNEEE!
Rich Russillo: Bea Valentine is coming off a successful title defense against Caroline, and now she and Ashlynn Quinn are looking for another victory tonight. I don’t think they will have the teamwork problems that their opponents do.
Persephone: Yeah but they also suck, so I’m not expecting much.
(The two then head down to the ring together. Ashlynn Quinn opens the ropes to let Bea into the ring. Damien Kutcher and Akari move to their corner and things are still looking tense. The referee calls for the bell.)
(DING! DING! DING!)
Rich Russillo: And that’s the bell and we are getting this tag team action underway! It looks like we are going to start things out here with Damien Kutcher and Ashlynn Quinn! Damien was insistent on kicking this off. Quinn approaches him in the center of the ring…AND HE IMMEDIATELY ROCKS HER WITH AN UPPERCUT! Kutcher is starting things off hot here, following that up with a big right and driving her into the ropes!
Rich Russillo: He then sends her across the ring with a big irish whip! Off the rebound he tries to take her head off with a clothesline! Quinn is able to duck under it! SHE KEEPS GOING TOWARDS THE ROPES AND LEAPS UP! SHE COMES RIGHT BACK AT KUTCHER WITH A SPRINGBOARD DISASTER KICK! It catches Kutcher right in the side of the head! The big man is brought down to a knee after that one big move! Ashlynn looks to follow up…RUNNING HIP CHECK!
Persephone: And look at that. She caught him right in the face. You know, maybe he should have come in a little less hot?
Rich Russillo: She definitely cooled him off there. Ashlynn Quinn looks for another big move, wanting to keep this early momentum going! She reaches down and brings him back up to his feet! SHE’S MAKING THE ATTEMPT AT THE BRAINBUSTER! Unfortunately for her, there is quite the weight difference here! She is definitely struggling to get him up…BUT HE HAS NO PROBLEM LIFTING HER! KUTCHER COUNTERS WITH THE SUPLEX! She seems practically weightless to him there! He rolls through and gets right on top of her…AND DELIVERS A FEW RIGHT HANDS!
Rich Russillo: Kutcher does not seem interested in any form of mercy tonight! He climbs out onto the apron and waits for her to stand back up! HE THEN DRILLS HER WITH THE SLINGSHOT SHOULDER BLOCK! Oh man, he collided like a missile there! Ashlynn got hit hard enough to launch her back and nearly out of the ring! She manages to stop herself on the apron though! She begins to pull herself back to her feet…BUT KUTCHER GIVES NO QUARTER!
Persephone: Kutcher approaches and tries to grab hold of his opponent…BUT QUINN GETS HIM WITH A HOTSHOT INSTEAD! His face bounces off the ropes! Can’t believe he fell for that!
Rich Russillo: She quickly makes her way back inside the ring! SHE ROCKS HIM WITH A SUPERKICK! Kutcher doesn’t fall quite yet but he definitely is stunned! It gives her the opening that she needed! SHE GETS HIM WITH THE NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPLEX! She bridges into the pin here!
ONE!
Rich Russillo: Kutcher is able to get that shoulder up right at the one count! It seems like we are far from done here! Ashlynn takes hold of her opponent and puts him in a seated position! She then runs the ropes, building up some speed! SHE LOOKS FOR A RUNNING KNEE RIGHT TO THE BACK OF HIS HEAD! Kutcher is able to move out of the way though! He gets right back up to his feet! SHE TURNS AROUND AND GETS THROWN WITH A BELLY-TO-BELLY SUPLEX!
Persephone: Damn, he tossed her around like a toy. He now brings her into the corner! He starts driving his shoulder into her ribs! She’s built like a toothpick, he might just snap her in two. HE PICKS HER UP AND DROPS HER ON THE TURNBUCKLE WITH A FLAPJACK! Didn’t realize he was doing cosmetic surgery tonight. There’s the cover!
ONE!
TW-
Rich Russillo: That was a brutal combination but Ashlynn stays in this! Damien Kutcher considers applying more offense…but ultimately heads back towards his corner! He makes the tag to Akari Kiyoko!
TAG!
Rich Russillo: In comes Kiyoko and he descends on his opponent like a vulture! He takes hold of her arm and tries to lock in the Fujiwara Armbar! Quinn is able to scramble towards the ropes, preventing the hold from being locked in! The ref separates the two but that doesn’t stop Kiyoko for long! HE RUSHES FORWARD AND GETS HER WITH THE ROLLING ELBOW! He then drags her away from the ropes…AND HERE COMES THE GERMAN SUPLEX!
Persephone: No it doesn’t! Quinn brings her elbow back instead, catching him in the side of the head! SHE THEN STUNS HIM WITH A STEP-UP ENZIGURI! She then stumbles over to the corner and makes the tag!
TAG!
Rich Russillo: HERE COMES THE EMPRESS! Bea Valentine enters the fray here! Akari storms her, trying to take her down quickly with a dropkick! She side-steps it easily! As he tries to get back up…SHE GETS HIM WITH THE SHINING WIZARD! Big impact there and I think Kiyoko might regret tagging in soon!
Rich Russillo: That just might be the case! Valentine gets him up and onto her shoulders! She’s looking for some big offense here! SHE LOOKS FOR THE FIREMAN’S CARRY NECKBREAKER! But as she’s starting to swing, Kiyoko slides off her shoulders! FROM BEHIND HE GETS HER WITH THE BELL CLAP! The champion is disoriented! HE’S ABLE TO FOLLOW IT UP WITH A DRAGON SUPLEX! Valentine is spiked right on her head! You can see that Luna on the outside is looking very satisfied with that!
Persephone: Akari looks to keep applying the pressure! He climbs up onto the top rope! Oh boy, is he actually going to attempt this? HE COMES DOWN WITH THE SHOOTING STAR PRESS! And to the surprise of absolutely no one…Valentine rolls out of the way!
Rich Russillo: That was a hard miss too! Kiyoko lands on the mat with a splat! Valentine quickly gets on top of him, applying the sleeper hold! That was a wise move, cutting off the oxygen flow from Kiyoko! She is squeezing some of that fight out of him here! He tries to reach towards the ropes but she manages to wrestle him back towards the center of the ring!
Rich Russillo: This is not an ideal position for him to be in! Akari however is trying to rise to his feet with her on his back! He manages to get into a standing position here…and he starts driving his elbow into her ribs! He finally is able to break off the hold, sending her into the ropes! HE MEETS HER THERE WITH A CLOTHESLINE, SENDING HER OUT OF THE RING! He knows what he wants to do next! He builds up some speed…SASUKE SPECIAL!
Persephone: Oh shit. Ashlynn Quinn steps between him and the outside! She is not going to let him do whatever flippy thing he had in mind.
Rich Russillo: AKARI SHRUGS AND GETS HER IN THE FACE WITH A HEADBUTT! She falls down to the outside right next to Bea Valentine! Kiyoko now has the opening he needs! HE LOOKS FOR THE SASUKE SPECIAL ONE MORE TIME! BUT QUINN PUSHES VALENTINE OUT OF THE WAY! Quinn gets crushed by Kiyoko in order to save her partner! Kiyoko looks confused but stays on target, approaching Valentine! HE GETS CAUGHT WITH A SUPERKICK OUT OF NOWHERE!
Rich Russillo: She then tosses him back inside the ring! Valentine hops up onto that apron and then right onto that top rope! I think we all know what is about to come next! HERE COMES THE FLIGHT OF THE BUMBLEBEA!
Persephone: Or not. Kiyoko was able to bring the knees up! She lands right on top of them and I swear I heard the cracking of a rib. Kiyoko barely drags himself up onto his feet and into the corner.
TAG!
Rich Russillo: Kutcher is now back in the match! He isn’t about to waste any time here! HE DELIVERS A MASSIVE RUNNING ELBOW DROP! He then picks her back up and drags her into the corner! He delivers some stomps and then tells Akari to tag back in!
TAG!
Rich Russillo: We are seeing some teamwork out of these two right now! Damien Kutcher picks her up position for the electric chair! Akari Kiyoko climbs the top rope! BUT VALENTINE FLIPS IT AROUND AND SENDS KUTCHER INTO THE CORNER WITH A HURRICANRANA! It knocks Kiyoko down right on his family jewels! Valentine pulls him back towards the middle of the ring…AND GETS HIM WITH THE FIREMAN’S CARRY CUTTER! She covers!
ONE!
TW-
Persephone: And he gets the shoulder up right before the two. He might be one sort of a full set after that but he still has fight in him. The question is…for how much longer?
Rich Russillo: That is the question as Valentine takes hold of him and drags him towards her corner! She looks to make the tag to her partner!
TAG!
Rich Russillo: And now comes Ashlynn Quinn! She looks to get even with Akari here! She drills him with a running back elbow! She then throws him into the corner! SHE GETS HIM WITH THE CLOTHESLINE BEFORE LETTING HIM STUMBLE BACK TOWARDS THE MIDDLE OF THE RING! She has him! We all know what comes next as she rolls forward! BLOCKBUSTER!
Persephone: BUT HE CATCHES HER! AND THEN BRINGS HER DOWN TO THE MAT WITH A VERTICAL SUPLEX! He practically threw her there, creating some distance between them!
Rich Russillo: That was an impressive counter by Kiyoko but is it going to get him what he needs? Ashlynn Quinn is back on her feet fast and she goes for a running jumping DDT! Once again, Akari is able to throw her away! She lands on her feet but before she can find her balance…KIYOKO GETS HER WITH A BACKHAND! AND THEN HE GETS THE DRAGON SUPLEX! What a combination and he looks for the cover right out of that!
ONE!
TWO!
Rich Russillo: But Ashlynn Quinn kicks out of it! Right at the two! He seems as if he was not expecting that! An annoyed look is on his face as he drags her back up to her feet! He drags her over to the ropes and begins the process of tying her up! He gets her arms trapped! TEN DIVINE THRONES! He gets her with the first running forearm! THIS COULD BE BAD…BUT SHE PULLS HERSELF FREE! SHE BLASTS AKARI WITH A STEP-UP ENZIGURI!
Rich Russillo: Ashlynn just saved herself from a brutal attack there! That strike sent her opponent stumbling! She quickly leaps up onto the ropes! AND SHE TAKES HIM DOWN WITH THE SPRINGBOARD DDT! That was a beautiful combination from Ashlynn! She has taken back control of this match!
Persephone: Good. Now she can finish it. Seems like that is what she has in mind here. She looks at Bea Valentine with a smile on her face as she brings Kiyoko back to his feet! SHE’S LOOKING FOR THE MACHINATION!
Rich Russillo: BUT AKARI KIYOKO SHOVES HER AWAY! He then rushes towards the corner to Damien Kutcher and makes the turn!
TAG!
Rich Russillo: KUTCHER RUSHES IN AND TAKES HER DOWN WITH A CLOTHESLINE! He then makes his way right over to the corner where Bea is! HE KNOCKS HER RIGHT OFF TO RINGSIDE WITH A RUNNING UPPERCUT! That was a cheap shot right there but at least it takes her out of the picture for now! He brings Quinn back to her feet! HE PICKS HER UP FOR A POWERSLAM! BUT SHE SLIDES BACK AND BEHIND HIM!
Persephone: Oh come on, he had her. AND NOW SHE DRIVES A LEAPING KNEE INTO HIS UPPER BACK! Kutcher stumbles forward and lands on the middle rope. Ashlynn Quinn climbs on out to the apron now! SHE THEN DELIVERS A RUNNING PUMP KICK TO THE SIDE OF HIS HEAD!
Rich Russillo: That definitely did the trick there! Damien Kutcher rolls backwards and he slowly begins to get back to his feet! I don’t think that is a good idea! HE IS RIGHT WHERE SHE WANTS HIM! SHE ROLLS FORWARD AND GETS HIM WITH THE DROPKICK! She calls that the Trend Setter! She hooks the leg and goes for the cover! This one could be over here!
ONE!
TWO!
T-
Rich Russillo: And Damien Kutcher kicks out right before the three count! That was awfully close there! She then brings him back up to her feet! She begins to drag him over to the corner! It seems like she wants to bring Bea Valentine back into this match! BUT BEFORE SHE CAN MAKE THE TAG, KUTCHER SHOVES HER AWAY! He then begins to stumble back towards Akari Kiyoko!
Persephone: Damn that Ashlynn is persistent! SHE RUNS UP FROM BEHIND AND TRIES FOR THE REVERSE FRANKENSTEINER! BUT KUTCHER DOESN’T GO DOWN! Wait, oh he manages to get her up in an electric chair position here! He pulls the switch. AND HE TWISTS IT INTO A POWERBOMB!
Rich Russillo: He just drills her into the mat at full force! He looks at Kiyoko, considering tagging him in! Akari wants to be tagged back in! Kutcher decides against it though! He lifts her up and holds her up in the vertical suplex! Look at the way he’s carrying her around the ring! He is trying to get the crowd hyped up here and it is working! HE THEN FINALLY CONNECTS WITH IT!
Rich Russillo: He has her right he wants her here! Damien Kutcher wants to put this one to a close! He drags her up to up her feet! He then sends her into the ropes with an irish whip! OFF THE REBOUND HE GOES FOR THE DIVINE SPINEBUSTER! BUT AS SHE DOES, HE BRINGS AN ELBOW DOWN ON HIS HEAD! SHE THEN KICKS HIS KNEE OUT FROM UNDERNEATH HIM! Ashlynn Quinn makes her way back into the corner! HERE COMES THE TAG!
TAG!
Persephone: In comes the champion. Rest in peace to the big man.
Rich Russillo: Bea Valentine comes in hard and fast! She climbs up onto the top rope! SHE COMES DOWN ON HIM WITH A DIVING CLOTHESLINE! She rolls through with it and heads to the opposite corner! SHE GETS AKARI WITH A DROPKICK! She turns back around and puts her focus on Kutcher! He was just beginning to get back to his feet…BUT HE GETS A CHOP DIRECTLY TO THE CHEST! That one definitely had more impact than he had imagined! HE REPLIES WITH ONE OF HIS OWN! It knocks her right down to the mat!
Rich Russillo: With anger in his eyes, Kutcher lifts her back up! He tries to get her up for the suplex! BUT VALENTINE BRINGS A KNEE DOWN ON HIS HEAD! He drops her and she lands on her feet! SHE THEN REACHES UP AND TAKES HIM DOWN WITH A CUTTER! That was a perfect takedown there! Kutcher is in definite danger here…as she brings him back up to his feet! HERE COMES THE CONSPIRACY!
Persephone: No it certainly does not. He shoves her away and makes his way back into the corner! HE GOES FOR THE TAG!
TAG!
Rich Russillo: AKARI KIYOKO IS BACK IN! He immediately leaps up onto that top rope! HE GOES FOR THE EUROPEAN UPPERCUT! He gets her right under the jaw! He then goes to the corner and waits for her to get on her knees! HE RUSHES IN AND LOOKS FOR THE A-KNEE OF DEATH! BUT SHE MOVES OUT OF THE WAY! Valentine senses the opportunity to strike him down! As he gets back up…SHE CUTS HIM DOWN WITH A DISCUS CLOTHESLINE! She nearly splits him in half there! And now the champion begins to climb back towards the top rope!
Rich Russillo: Look at that, there is nothing that Akari can do here! He is right in the drop zone here! BUT KUTCHER COMES OVER TO THE CORNER AND SHOVES HER OFF OF IT! Valentine hits the mat in an awful way! Akari Kiyoko manages to get back to his feet as this chaos is happening! SHE THEN ROLLS FORWARD AND LOOKS FOR THE ROLLING THUNDER DDT ON VALENTINE! DEAD STROKE! It connects and this just might be it! He covers the champion!
ONE!
TWO!
TH-
Persephone: How the hell? Did she just kick out of that? Kiyoko looks completely confused here! He thought he had that! He goes up to the official and gets right in his face! He stares him down in rage before refocusing on the match!
Rich Russillo: He wants to put a definitive end to this one! Akari Kiyoko goes to lift Bea Valentine over his head! I think he wants to connect with Endless Possibilities! BUT VALENTINE IS ABLE TO SLIDE OFF AND GET BEHIND HIM! She tries for the german suplex but Akari counters! He rolls forward, taking her down…AND THEN TRIES TO CONNECT WITH THE STANDING MOONSAULT! Valentine is able to get the knees up instead! Kiyoko lands across them and that definitely had to hurt!
Rich Russillo: Valentine gets back to her feet here! She picks him up and he gets her in position for the powerbomb! SHE’S LOOKING FOR THAT BUCKLEBOMB! However, Kiyoko is able to escape before it can connect! He tries to get her with the roll-up pin but she refuses to go down! SHE INSTEAD PICKS HIM UP AND LAUNCHES HIM INTO THE CORNER WITH A MONKEY FLIP! Kiyoko lands hard against the turnbuckles and moves into a seated position! THIS IS NOT WHERE HE WANTS TO BE! NOT BY A LONG SHOT! IN COMES VALENTINE WITH THE DOUBLE KNEES! BEA SWARM! She drags him out of the corner for the cover!
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
Persephone: Damien was not about to let that happen. He breaks up the cover! That was way too close.
Rich Russillo: Valentine is definitely going to need to pull out something big here! She heads on over to the corner and tags in Ashlynn Quinn!
TAG!
Rich Russillo: And just like that, Quinn is the legal competitor! Valentine brings Akari back up to his feet and then lifts him up onto her shoulders! Ashlynn Quinn gets in position…RUNNING TO THE ROPES AND HITTING THE DISASTER KICK ON KIYOKO! Valentine then drops him down with the fireman’s carry neckbreaker! What a combination from the two! Ashlynn Quinn goes for the cover…
Rich Russillo: BUT KUTCHER COMES IN AGAIN! He takes down Ashlynn with a massive clothesline! He then picks Akari back up! He helps him shake off the pain and gets him into the corner for the tag!
TAG!
Persephone: And Kutcher practically makes himself the legal competitor. These two actually seem to be working together well tonight.
Rich Russillo: You can say that again! Seems like they have gotten a little bit of their groove back! Kiyoko takes hold of Quinn and gets her in position for the german suplex! Kutcher begins to run the ropes! HE THEN DELIVERS A MASSIVE BOOT TO HER CHEST AS AKARI HITS THE GERMAN SUPLEX! That right there was a lethal combination! What Kutcher wants to do now is capitalize on it and take home the win!
Rich Russillo: He drags her back up to a vertical base…HE THEN GETS HER WITH A MASSIVE UPPERCUT! He doesn’t let her fall though…instead grabbing her head! THE DIVINE FINISH!
Persephone: WRONG! Ashlynn Quinn catches herself right before her face makes impact with the mat! She was an inch away from being beaten here! She gets back to her feet and as Kutcher begins to get up…SHE TAKES HIM DOWN WITH THE JUMP MAT SLAM!
Rich Russillo: That might have done the trick here! Kutcher doesn’t stay down for long though, doing his best to drag himself up onto his feet! Quinn comes in from behind and gets him with another running knee! He bounces off the ropes…AND COMES BACK WITH A BIG RIGHT HAND! HE THEN PULLS HER IN FOR THE SUPLEX! HE GETS HER HIGH UP IN THE AIR…BUT SHE COUNTERS WITH THE PINK STAR DIAMOND! SHE GETS THE CODEBREAKER! COVER!
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-
Rich Russillo: But Akari Kiyoko comes in and breaks up the pin! He just returned the favor for his partner there! BEA VALENTINE IS ABOUT TO GET INTO THE RING FOR SOME BACKUP! Wait a se-
(Suddenly, Bea Valentine is pulled off the apron by someone.)
Rich Russillo: That’s…NIKKI! NIKKI KIMURA! SHE IS BEATING THE HELL OUT OF VALENTINE AT RINGSIDE HERE! You can see the disbelief in the eyes of Quinn! She makes her way to the outside to help her partner! She steps on out to the apron…
Persephone: The calvary is not arriving. KUTCHER GRABS HER AND PULLS HER BACK INSIDE THE RING!
Rich Russillo: She tries to fight back, swinging wildly at Kutcher! BUT HE DRIVES A KNEE RIGHT INTO HER STOMACH! HE THEN SPIKES HER INTO THE MAT WITH THE DIVINE FINISH! That definitely connected this time! I mean, Ashlynn was distracted by what happened on the outside…but it gave him the opening he needed! Kutcher lays down on top of her for the cover and Valentine can’t get in!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
(DING! DING! DING!)
(‘Rubber Band Man’ by T.I. begins to play as Damien Kutcher rises up off of his opponent. He pushes himself back to his feet, and while he’s not happy having to work with Akari and Luna, he seems to be satisfied picking up another victory. As he returns to his feet, he and Akari have their hands raised by the referee as Ashlynn Quinn and Bea Valentine are both laid out, with Nikki Kimura backing off.)
Bella Braxton: HERE ARE YOUR WINNERS…DAMIEN KUTCHER AND AKARI KIYOKO!
Rich Russillo: WOW! I…I almost can’t believe it! Damien Kutcher and Akari Kiyoko just picked up a massive win here ladies and gentlemen! They just got a win over the Universal Women’s Champion!
Persephone: At least the match is over. That was a chore.
Rich Russillo: That was some great action there. Both teams worked together well tonight, despite the tense situation between Kutcher and Kiyoko! I can’t help but think that the big difference maker here was Nikki Kimura! Clearly she wanted to make a statement against the champion!
Persephone: Who cares? All that matters is that Kutcher and Akari won.
(Quinn has rolled out to ringside, checking on Valentine who appears very displeased with that result. Meanwhile Kutcher and Kiyoko stare each other down in the ring. They share a nod of respect before leaving the ring, knowing that they were able to get what they wanted even if just for one night.)
(Sunday Night Voltage returns to a shot of the backstage area of the Utilita Arena Newcastle. It focuses specifically on a private locker room, as Jake Smith looks fuming about what happened out there during his match against Effy McAvoy. He tosses his wrist tape away in anger, running his hands down his face repeatedly.)
Jake Smith: THAT STUPID MOTHERFUCKER. I swear to God, Adam Lucas is always going to do everything in his power to try and RUIN MY CAREER. Does he think that he can do that shit? Just because I’m facing him now in a fancy schmancy match that I want NO PART IN? WHO THE HELL DOES HE THINK HE IS?
(Jake lets out a loud groan as he shakes his head. He’s not alone, though, and as the shot pans out, Caroline is seen. She has her arms crossed in the corner of the room, staring a hole into Jake.)
(Jake is seeing red, and he’s clearly not happy, but at the same time, he also doesn’t feel any sort of way about Caroline’s presence either; at this point, he’s pretty used to it. But after some time, though, Caroline is heard clearing her throat, trying to get his attention. He flutters his eyes, turning his head and looking at her, and eyeing the dissatisfaction that she is exuding just looking at him.)
Jake Smith: Yes?
(There’s a brief silence between the two, Caroline keeping her stance for a lingering moment, and this already doesn’t make Jake very happy.)
Jake Smith: What? What could I have possibly done wrong this time? I can see the look on your face, you’re more disgusted by me than you usually are, so go ahead, just say it. Say what you need to say and kick me down more than you already have.
(Jake is clearly over it as he flings his arms in the air, tossing away the remainder of his wrist tape. Caroline doesn’t react whatsoever, simply speaking.)
Caroline: Grand Rampage was a pathetic display by an even more pathetic man.
(Jake groans as he throws his head back, rubbing his temple in frustration before beginning to speak once more.)
Jake Smith: I don’t get it. You can make fun of me for a lot of things, but I did nothing wrong last week. What could I have possibly done to get you on your nerves?
Caroline: The money dance? You disgust me.
(Jake looks like he’s going to speak, but before he does, he stops himself. She’s right, that was pretty pathetic. He thinks about what he’s going to say for a moment before continuing to speak.)
Jake Smith: Look, that’s not important right now; we have to be focused on other pressing matters concerning the two of us.
Caroline: Like?
Jake Smith: Fighting Spirit! Did you see what the fuck just happened! The type of moral injustices that have just transpired. For some odd reason, which is what I can say about a lot of the decisions that he chooses to make, Captain Charisma made my match against Adam Lucas a Barbed Wire Massacre match. While I am the last winner of a Barbed Wire Massacre match in this company, I have no problem with beating someone’s ass in the stipulation again, that’s the last thing that I want to concern myself with right now. I know, I know, but Jake, there’s something in this for me. If I win this match, then I get an EAW World Championship shot at Pain For Pride. Hasn’t that been the goal this entire time?! Becoming a three-time World Champion! Yes, but the point is that I shouldn’t need to prove that I belong by competing against Adam Lucas in a match like that. At this point, I know that I’m better than him, and I know that I can beat him, so why bother having the fucking match in the first place? Let alone in such a barbaric stipulation like Barbed Wire Massacre, one that I’ve made known to our glorious Commissioner that I have a problem with it, but it seems like NOBODY LISTENS TO JAKE SMITH NOWADAYS, RIGHT?
(Jake shakes his head repeatedly, clearly trying to wrap his mind around the situation that has unfolded, but struggling to come to terms with it even for the slightest second. After pausing to take a couple of deep breaths like his therapist has told him to do when he gets angry, he then begins to speak again.)
Jake Smith: It’s just not right, and I don’t agree with it whatsoever. So many times I have played along with the games of Captain Charisma and let any transgressions against me roll off my shoulder, knowing that regardless, I can make something out of it, but at some point, you just have to understand that this is ridiculous. That there is no point to this other than watching me get continuously beaten up verbally and physically for his enjoyment. I’m sick of it, I’m over it, and with someone of my repertoire, I refuse to be a punching bag, that’s all.
(There’s a silence after Jake’s rant, clearly fueled by the usual delusion and frustration that comes out of his usual arguments. Caroline is staring at him, continuing to eye him with a frustrated look on her face, as well as the usual look that came when she listened to what Jake had to say. She shakes her head as she leans herself back against the corner of the room.)
Caroline: Okay?
(Jake rolls his eyes.)
Jake Smith: You could be more encouraging, you know? It wouldn’t hurt considering I’ve broken my back for this brand the entire season, and I’m consistently getting disrespected time after time again. I thought you, of all people, would understand the struggles that I’ve gone through. But no, apparently, you’re not only blonde and hot, you’re stupid.
Caroline: Watch your mouth.
Jake Smith: Sorry.
Caroline: I don’t have a reason to care about it, none of this involves me. What do you expect me to do about this?
(Jake hears what she has to say and is speechless for a good moment. He rubs his eyes, clearly shocked that she had the gall to say that. As we all already know, Jake Smith wants everyone to care about everything that he does, and does not appreciate the fact that people go out of their way to constantly disrespect him. His biggest weakness is his ego, and clearly, what Caroline said was a hard shot to the chest for him. He’s flabbergasted as he takes a moment to compose himself, trying his best to think of a response that would rationalize his feelings and also stop him from getting his eyes gouged out by her sharp Freddy Krueger claws, before he then begins to say what he has to say.)
Jake Smith: I don’t get it. I thought you cared about me. What is happening is a huge injustice right now, and if it can happen to me, then clearly, it could just about happen to anyone. I am a victim, I am a man who has gone through so much just to get so little, and now I have to deal with idiots whom I should have handled a long time ago. People want to point fingers and blame me for the situation, saying that it’s something that I CAUSED, but if I had control, then this would have been over a long time ago. I would have nipped this in the bud and truly put an end to this, but Captain Charisma wants to continuously put roadblocks in my way.
(Jake stands up from where he’s seated, closing his eyes and beginning to pace around in frustration as he continues to vent his issues with Voltage.)
Jake Smith: He wants to continuously bullshit me and pin the blame on me for everything that has happened, but it’s HIS FAULT. He knows that I’m the best thing to come to this brand; he knows that the EAW World Championship being around my waist is what is best for business, but despite that, what does he do? He lets Michael Machina steal it away from me and hold it captive, waving it around like a doofus who thinks that he knows what he’s doing, even for a second. Well, he’s a fool. Getting Adam Lucas a World Championship opportunity as well, don’t even get me started on that! Do you know how many opportunities he’s gotten? Do you know how many chances that he’s been given to make something out of the nothingness that he is as an Elitist? HE’S GOTTEN TOO MANY OPPORTUNITIES. Yet despite that he still gets title shots handed right out of his ass, well I’m not going to let that happen anymore. I’m going to put an end to this, and I’ll make sure that I GET MY MOMENT-
(Jake opens his eyes and looks around. He doesn’t know when, but Caroline has already disappeared; she does not want to hear what Jake Smith has had to say at all. The EAW Hall of Famer bangs his head against the wall repeatedly before throwing his hands into the air again.)
Jake Smith: CAN YOU AT LEAST SAY WHEN YOU LEAVE? GOD.
(Jake sits down and puts his head on his hands, shaking his head repeatedly. It’s the last shot seen before Sunday Night Voltage, then, begins to fade to elsewhere.)
(Commercial for Marvel’s Daredevil: Born Again, now on Disney+.)
[SCREENBAR – Last week, during Grand Rampage.]
(The camera opens up to the backstage area of the Everton Stadium, where Grand Rampage took place. Methuselah is seen slowly walking through the hallway, a while after his match against KASAI, which ended in brutal fashion. By this point the Grand Rampage match has begun, and it appears that Methuselah may be making his way out of the stadium. As Methuselah walks through the hallway however, Sofia Clarke rushes over to Methuselah, beginning to speak as he continues to walk.)
Sofia Clarke: Methuselah, do you have a moment?
(Methuselah keeps walking, but Sofia Clarke continues to speak.)
Sofia Clarke: If you don’t mind, I’d like to speak with you about your match against KASAI not too long ago!
(Methuselah finally stops. While he doesn’t say anything, his decision to stop in his tracks seems to tell Sofia that it’s okay for her to continue. Realizing this, Sofia begins to speak once again.)
Sofia Clarke: Earlier in the night we saw you take on KASAI in what turned out to be a very violent match, and in the end you’d pick up the victory in further gruesome fashion as you’d utilize Kassidy Heart’s “Necro Mauler” submission, while biting into the back of KASAI’s head. As we all know KASAI is a rising star who has had an impressive past year in EAW, and some may say that you went too far in the match between the two of you, which initially didn’t even have a stipulation attached to it. I understand that things have gotten very heated between the two of you, but do you regret going that far to put KASAI down tonight?
(Methuselah doesn’t respond, which begins to confuse Sofia. After a moment, she begins to speak once more.)
Sofia Clarke: Sorry, I was just wondering if you might’ve felt that you crossed the line. I understand that these kinds of violent matches happen often in EAW, but there were many moments where that match could have been called off. I’m just wondering if you had any comments regarding-
(Before Sofia could finish speaking, Methuselah just begins to walk away once again, causing Sofia to quickly rush behind.)
Sofia Clarke: Wait! Wait, I just…
(Realizing that Methuselah isn’t going to stop, Sofia Clarke gives up, allowing Methuselah to walk away from the area while she stays. Sofia looks towards the cameraman, just shrugging her shoulders as the interview did not go to plan. Sofia turns and begins to walk away from the area, before the camera begins to fade out.)
(The camera returns to ringside in the Utilita Arena, and before long, ‘Praise Gawd’ by Kanye West begins to play. This receives a loud reaction from the fans in attendance, and the camera pans towards the stage as Methuselah, the Chairman of EAW, begins to walk out. Methuselah can be seen holding a microphone in his hand following his match against KASAI one week ago, and he has a calm look on his face as he begins to finally make his way down the ramp and towards the ring.)
Rich Russillo: Methuselah has a microphone in his hand as he seemingly is ready to speak, but I just have to say… What a match he had against KASAI back at Grand Rampage. I don’t even know if calling it a match is enough, that was a war.
Persephone: Or a massacre. KASAI kinda got destroyed in the end, but it was pretty entertaining. That doesn’t mean I want to see Methuselah speak though, so I don’t know what he is doing out here right now.
Rich Russillo: Sofia Clarke tried to get an interview with Methuselah during the Grand Rampage show, but as we saw, Methuselah wasn’t in any mood to answer her question. That in mind, I wonder what it is he has to say right now.
(Methuselah walks up the steel steps before making his way into the ring, and once there, ‘Praise Gawd’ begins to fade out. Methuselah stares at the fans in attendance for a moment, before finally he begins to speak.)
Methuselah: Last week I did exactly what was not only expected of me, but what was promised as soon as KASAI made it her own personal mission to kill me. She fought. She did everything she was physically capable of doing, but ultimately our match ended exactly how it was always going to end. She was never going to walk out of it the victor by any means and yet when the match was over, I was asked a question that should’ve already been answered. I was asked if I regret any of my actions during my match against KASAI. I was asked if I regret being as merciful as I was against the same woman who wanted not just a victory, but my head. KASAI knew what she was getting herself into, or at least, she should’ve. This was no secret. She was told exactly what would happen at Grand Rampage. She was given not just warnings, but a look into her own future. She had every chance to understand what fate had in store for her, so what I did cannot be considered a surprise. I did only what I promised, so how could I possibly regret any of my actions?
(The fans in attendance begin to boo hearing this from Methuselah, but Methuselah continues.)
Methuselah: I have no regrets. For me to regret any of my actions towards KASAI would mean ignoring the fact that she walked into our match prepared for battle. This wasn’t a fight she wasn’t aware of. I not only made this match official right in front of her, but when the time came for the two of us to face off, I allowed her to take her shot. I allowed her to attempt to put me down as soon as possible. I gave her KASAI everything she could ask for, all with the sole condition that if she failed to keep me down, our match would be one where anything goes and I was free to do as I pleased. She understood this and accepted those conditions and the match you all witnessed last week was the result of that. No, I don’t regret anything. I don’t regret tearing KASAI to shreds, nor will I ever regret living up to my words. I don’t speak for the sole purpose of having my voice heard. KASAI heard the truth heading into Grand Rampage, and what she experienced was exactly what I warned her of. She ended that match exactly how she was always going to-
(‘Kamikaze’ by RedHook suddenly hits, which surprises the fans in attendance as Methuselah looks towards the stage, confused. He doesn’t appear to be amused as Daryl Kinkade makes his way out to the stage, and Daryl can be seen holding a microphone in his hand, staring at Methuselah. Daryl ignores the boos coming from the fans in attendance, staring towards Methuselah as he begins making his way down the ramp and towards the ring.)
Rich Russillo: Well this is a surprise! I can’t say I expected to see Daryl Kinkade interrupt Methuselah, and now I’m wondering exactly what Kinkade is here for.
Persephone: I’m not. I don’t know and I don’t care why he’s here. This is a waste of time and I am already annoyed, even though he hasn’t said anything yet.
Rich Russillo: Well unfortunately for you, it looks like Daryl does intend to speak as he’s on his way to the ring with a microphone.
Persephone: Great…
(Daryl Kinkade enters the ring, and ‘Kamikaze’ begins to fade out. After this, Daryl immediately begins to speak.)
Daryl Kinkade: I know that you were in the middle of some long-winded speech regarding your match against KASAI at Grand Rampage, but the last thing we needed right now was to hear you go on and on about a match like that. We don’t care what happened against KASAI, bruv. We don’t care about your victory. In case you haven’t realized it yet, we’re on the road to Pain for Pride. We have far bigger problems to worry about than some match that only happened because KASAI failed to take you out back at Shock Value in a match neither of you won. If anyone should be out here right now it’s me, because at Grand Rampage I missed out on something that actually matters. At Grand Rampage I had an opportunity that doesn’t come often. Not only did I fight for the EAW World Championship, but I did it in England on my birthday. That was my match to win, but I didn’t get the job done. I lost, and now I have to have my time wasted?
(The fans boo, and Methuselah doesn’t look pleased, but he doesn’t say anything in response as Daryl continues.)
Daryl Kinkade: This season is coming to an end Methuselah, so you need to understand that we don’t have time for stuff like this. I need the chance to get myself not just to Pain for Pride, but in a match that’s actually worth my time.
Methuselah: What does that have to do with me? What happened between myself and KASAI was none of your concern, nor does it have anything to do with your inability to become a World Champion. Your chase for the World Championship came to an end at Grand Rampage, so there is no reason for you to hold a microphone right now. We’ve seen everything that needed to be seen. You had your chance, and you failed.
Daryl Kinkade: I wasn’t finished, bruv. If I’m going to make my way to an important match at Pain for Pride I need the chance to make a statement, and at this point I don’t care who it is against. All that matters is that I have the opportunity to find my way back to that title. The last thing I can afford is to walk into Pain for Pride directionless, and yet before I chose to come out here all I heard coming out of your mouth was talks of regrets. You went on about the fact that you don’t regret any of the decisions you made, but Methuselah, from what I can see you should have more regrets than anyone else on the roster. After all, for someone who claims to be unkillable, you seem to be in the same position that I’m stuck in. You don’t have a place at Pain for Pride just yet, because despite all of the opportunities you’ve been given, you couldn’t become the EAW World Champion, either.
Methuselah: Daryl, what I do with my season shouldn’t matter to you. The two of us have not crossed paths very often this season and I truly have no issues with keeping it that way, but in order for this to happen you need to actually stay out of the way. There’s no reason for you to be out here, and the fact that you’re here tells me that you’re making a terrible mistake. A mistake that you’ll likely only realize was made after you’ve already suffered the consequences for it. The best decision you can make right now is getting out of this ring, so I’ll give you the opportunity to move on and put this conversation behind you. Get out.
(Methuselah waits after this, expecting Daryl Kinkade to get out of the ring. However, Daryl doesn’t leave, and instead begins to speak once more.)
Daryl Kinkade: I’m not going anywhere, bruv. If you really think that you can just keep overlooking me and brush me off right now, I don’t think you understand exactly what’s at stake for us right now. I’ve had a rough season and I get that, but I haven’t lost sight of how good I am. I know what I’m capable of, and that includes becoming a World Champion. I’ll go through whoever I need to in order to get through, no matter who is standing in front of me.
Methuselah: Whoever you need to? This clearly didn’t apply just one week ago, but very well. Still, whatever it is you have on your mind right now, just know it won’t end well for you. The last thing you need to do to yourself this close to Pain for Pride is dig your own-
Rich Russillo: DARYL KINKADE JUST KICKED METHUSELAH BELOW THE BELT!!! IT LOOKS LIKE DARYL HAD SOMETHING IN MIND HERE AFTER ALL, AS HE JUST WENT LOW TO CATCH METHUSELAH OFF GUARD, KNOWING THAT METHUSELAH KNEW SOMETHING WAS UP!
Persephone: Daryl Kinkade rushes at Methuselah and begins punching away at him after Methuselah drops down to a knee, and I don’t really know what got into Daryl, nor do I really care, but it’s pretty funny that it’s only been a week and Methuselah has already taken another low blow.
Rich Russillo: METHUSELAH SHOVES DARYL OFF OF HIM THOUGH, AND IT LOOKS LIKE METHUSELAH MAY HAVE BEEN PREPARED FOR A FIGHT AFTER ALL, EVEN IF HURTING FROM THAT LOW BLOW! KINKADE STUMBLES BACK, AND NOW METHUSELAH CHARGES IN FOR A SPEAR!!!
Persephone: DARYL GETS OUT OF THE WAY THOUGH, CAUSING METHUSELAH TO GO SHOULDER FIRST INTO THE RING POST! Methuselah is too old for this, he might’ve gotten an injury after that.
Rich Russillo: Daryl Kinkade runs the ropes as Methuselah stumbles out of the corner, AND DARYL LEAPS AT METHUSELAH BEFORE PLANTING HIM WITH THE MONKĒ FLIP!!! DARYL DROPS METHUSELAH WITH THE MONKĒ FLIP BEFORE GETTING BACK TO HIS FEET, AND WHATEVER HAS GOTTEN INTO DARYL, IT LOOKS LIKE A MESSAGE HAS BEEN SENT TO METHUSELAH AFTER A BRUTAL VICTORY AT GRAND RAMPAGE!
Persephone: It doesn’t look like he’s done, actually.
Rich Russillo: Wait a second, you’re right!
Persephone: Daryl begins to drag Methuselah back up, and it looks like he’s setting him up for something.
Rich Russillo: NOT JUST ANYTHING! DARYL LIFTS METHUSELAH UP, BEFORE PLANTING HIM WITH A BEAUTIFUL LIE!!!! A BEAUTIFUL LIE CONNECTS ON METHUSELAH, PLANTING THE CHAIRMAN RIGHT IN THE CENTER OF THE RING!!!! WHAT I SAID ABOUT DARYL REMAINS TRUE, AS HE JUST SENT A MESSAGE TO METHUSELAH WITH AN ATTACK THAT I HAVE TO SAY SURPRISED ME! Methuselah nearly caught Kinkade with the killing blow, but Daryl was able to not just avoid it, but take out the Chairman!
(Daryl Kinkade pushes himself back to his feet as the fans begin to boo once more. He has a focused look on his face as he looks down at Methuselah, who is laid out on the mat still following that attack. After a while Daryl begins to look up at the fans, while ‘Kamikaze’ begins to play once more.)
Rich Russillo: What on Earth did we just see!? Daryl Kinkade just laid out Methuselah, and we still barely know why! Daryl clearly wants himself a spot at Pain for Pride, but is this really how he intends to find himself in a major match at the show?
Persephone: You’d think people would stop picking fights with Methuselah, but apparently nobody learns anything on this brand. I feel like every season we’re stuck with idiots on this show.
Rich Russillo: Well tonight he was able to lay out Methuselah, so we’ll have to see how things play out. Still, I think anyone could tell you Methuselah won’t be happy about this one.
(Daryl Kinkade is shown standing over Methuselah as the fans continue to boo. This lasts a while as he stares at the fans, until finally, Daryl begins to make his way out of the ring, having accomplished everything he set out to. With Methuselah still laid out inside of the ring, Daryl makes his way up the ramp. From there, Voltage fades away from ringside.)
(Commercial for Fortnite: Battle Royale with Bronson Daniels.)
(The camera cuts to Bella Braxton in the ring.)
Bella Braxton: THE FOLLOWING CONTEST IS A SCHEDULED FOR… ONE FALL!!
Crowd: ONE FALL!!
(‘Number One’ by Shirō Sagisu & Hazel Fernandes plays to a positive reaction from fans as Limmy Monaghan makes his way onto the stage, sporting a few scrapes and bruises from his match with Xander Payne at Grand Rampage, but nothing he can’t handle before sauntering down to the ring.)
Bella Braxton: Introducing first! Residing out of Golden Beach, Florida, weighing in at 227 pounds…HE IS THE ACE OF ELITE ANSWERS WRESTLING…LIMMY MONAGHAN!!
Rich Russillo: At Grand Rampage, Limmy Monaghan finally closed the book on his rivalry with Xander Payne, and looks to move onto bigger and better things.
Persephone: It’s about time. I’d rather not see those two fight forever, even if I found it entertaining to watch them try and kill each other.
(‘Rhapsody in Pink’ by Stela Cole plays next after Limmy removes his entrance gear, revealing his back has kinesio tape on it from the Last Sedation onto the apron he received from Xander, and Candice Blair walks out with Selina Reyes flanking her. strike a pose in unison on the stage area, and begin making their way down to the ring with Candice looking confident.)
Bella Braxton: And his opponent! Residing out of Malibu, California, weighing in at 130 pounds, accompanied to the ring by Selina Reyes…SHE IS PRINCESS CANDICE BLAIR!
Rich Russillo: If you noticed, Limmy Monaghan has some kinesio tape on his back. I wonder if that’ll become a target for Candice Blair throughout this match.
Persephone: That’s counting on Candice Blair being smart, so I’ll say… 50/50.
Rich Russillo: You might not want to underestimate Blair, especially with the recent attitude she’s been in.
Persephone: :wow:
(The referee signals for the bell as both competitors stand in opposing corners.)
(DING! DING! DING!)
Rich Russillo: Here we go! Limmy Monaghan versus Candice Blair, this should be an interesting clash of styles as both competitors circle around to start things off.
Persephone: “Interesting” is definitely a choice.
Rich Russillo: Well, how would you describe this match?
Persephone: Boring. Predictable. Need I continue?
Rich Russillo: I suppose not, as both competitors initiate a collar and elbow tie-up in the center of the ring! Limmy slips behind for a rear waistlock, and Candice isolates the left arm, slowly prying his hands apart for an arm wringer escape of the rear waistlock! Candice gains control of the wrist, and Limmy rolls through to a seated position, moving to all fours afterwards, then HANDSPRINGS back to his feet! Countering with an arm wringer of his own, gaining control of Candice’s wrist now!
Persephone: I don’t know about you, but that felt a bit excessive.
Rich Russillo: Who am I to doubt Monaghan’s methods, especially after it brought him the advantage over Candice?
Persephone: If you say so.
Rich Russillo: Limmy transitions into a hammerlock, applying pressure to the shoulder- before Candice slips behind Limmy for a hammerlock of her own! Smooth counter from Blair, who is currently going hold for hold with Limmy, and Candice transitions into a standing side headlock, proceeding to ground Monaghan with a takedown!
Persephone: Jesus, how much longer left of this match?
Rich Russillo: It… literally just started.
Persephone: :noah: Then why does it feel so long already?
Rich Russillo: I honestly couldn’t tell you, even if I tried.
Persephone: Sigh.
Rich Russillo: Candice grounds Limmy with the side headlock takedown, but Monaghan does escape with a headscissors, putting those legs of his to good use! QUICKLY, CANDICE BLAIR KICKS OUT OF THE HEADSCISSORS TO ESCAPE, AND BOTH COMPETITORS SCRAMBLE BACK TO THEIR FEET!
Persephone: If they start chanting this is awesome, I’m not.
Rich Russillo: No, not yet. You’re in the clear for right now as both competitors remain in the feeling out process against each other. Neither one have rushed into anything just yet, and I feel that’s smarter, so you aren’t making mistakes early on either.
Persephone: If making a mistake means this match getting better, then please one of them make it.
Rich Russillo; Both Candice and Limmy stare the other down, and begin closing the distance for a test of strength! Locking their first set of hands together- but Candice immediately transitions into a hammerlock! Knowing she couldn’t actually win that test of strength there, so it was wise of her to bait in Monaghan like that.
Persephone: Make it stop as Candice transitions into a standing side headlock.
Rich Russillo: BEFORE CANDICE CONNECTING WITH A TIGER SPIN DROP TOE HOLD! LIMMY HITS FACE FIRST ON THE CANVAS, AND CANDICE FLOATS OVER INTO A GROUNDED FRONT FACELOCK ONTO MONAGHAN, WHO MAKES IT ALL FOURS!
Persephone: Candice continues tightening her stupid front facelock.
Rich Russillo: But Limmy grits through the pain as he powers back to his feet, and muscles Candice up to launch her off the hold with a FREE FALL DROP! BUT CANDICE LANDS ON HER FEET LIKE A CAT, AND LIMMY LUNGES AT HER- ONLY FOR CANDICE TO SEE HIM COMING, AND SLIPS BEHIND LIMMY FOR A REAR WAISTLOCK!
Persephone: But Limmy performs a standing switch or whatever you call it, slipping behind Candice for a rear waistlock of his own-
Rich Russillo: LIMMY BEGAN TO HOIST HER UP FOR A GERMAN SUPLEX! BUT CANDICE COUNTERED WITH A BACK ELBOW, STUNNING MONAGHAN MOMENTARILY AS SHE TURNS AROUND FOR AN IRISH WHIP TO THE ROPES! CANDICE SWINGS WILDLY WITH A CLOTHESLINE!
Persephone: But Limmy ducks underneath it, and keeps his momentum going as he rebounds off a second time.
Rich Russillo: AND LIMMY FLOORS CANDICE WITH A FLYING FOREARM STRIKE! CANDICE IS QUICKLY BACK TO HER FEET, HOWEVER, AND SO IS LIMMY! WHO BACKS HER INTO THE CORNER WITH A FLURRY OF PUNCHES, AND FOLLOWS IT UP WITH REPEATED STOMPS IN THE CORNER! SINKING CANDICE DOWN TO A SEATED POSITION IN THE CORNER, AND MONAGHAN PRESSES HIS BOOT AGAINST CANDICE’S JAW!
Referee: ONE! TWO! THREE!
Rich Russillo: Referee got to a count of three before Monaghan relented, and backs away with the referee admonishing him. Seems like Limmy is upping the aggression a bit as he marches toward Candice in the corner, and stands her back up for an irish whip to the opposite!
Persephone: But Candice turns things around, sending Limmy to the corner instead.
Rich Russillo: CANDICE CHARGES AFTER HIM, BUT LIMMY GOES UP AND OVER HER IN THE CORNER BEFORE REBOUNDING OFF THE ROPES! CANDICE RUNS OFF THOSE SET OF ROPES AS LIMMY, AND MONAGHAN HALTS HIS MOMENTUM IN THE CENTER AS BLAIR BOUNCES OFF FOR A HURRICANRANA! HURRICANRANA SENDS LIMMY SLITHERING OUT UNDERNEATH THE BOTTOM ROPE!
Persephone: Candice has that look in her eye, so something tells me she’s about to attempt something stupid.
Rich Russillo: CANDICE RUNS OFF THE ROPES AGAIN, BUILDING MOMENTUM FOR A BASEBALL SLIDE DROPKICK! BUT LIMMY DUCKS UNDERNEATH IT AS CANDICE COMES SLIDING OUT UNDER THE BOTTOM ROPE, AND HALTS HERSELF FROM COLLIDING GUT FIRST WITH THE BARRICADE! BUT DONT TURN AROUND AS LIMMY SLID BACK INSIDE, RUNNING OFF THE ROPES FOR A SUICIDE DIVE!
Persephone: Candice goes back first into the barricade, and Limmy rolls her inside the ring for a follow up.
Rich Russillo: LIMMY SLIDES BACK INSIDE THE RING HIMSELF, AND CANDICE IS ALREADY ON HER FEET! WANDERING INTO A KICK TO THE GUT FROM LIMMY, WHO PULLS HER IN POSITION FOR A GOTCH STYLE PILEDRIVER! LIMMY DOES CALL THIS HISTORIA, A REFERENCE TO XANDER PAYNE’S OWN DAUGHTER-
Persephone: As much as I wanted to see Candice get spiked onto her head, Limmy can only get her up slightly before Candice fends it off.
Rich Russillo: MANAGING TO AVOID WITH A BACK BODY DROP! Remember, Limmy’s back has kinesio tape on it, and he clutches it in pain while crawling towards the corner. Limmy takes a seat in said corner, and Candice marches toward him- UNLOADING WITH REPEATED STOMPS IN THE CORNER BEFORE LIMMY CURLS UP! DOING HIS BEST TO COVER UP AS CANDICE AIMS FOR STOMPS TO HIS HEAD AND SHOULDER!
Persephone: Finally, they’re moving out the boring technical wrestling phase.
Rich Russillo: The referee pulls Candice away from Limmy, creating some separation between the two before Candice is back on the attack. Dragging Limmy to his feet, and directing him to the center of the ring! Candice pulls Limmy into position for a SNAP SUPLEX- BUT LIMMY HAS ENOUGH WHEREWITHAL TO BLOCK IT! STANDING HIS GROUND BEFORE CANDICE TRIES IT AGAIN A SECOND TIME!
Persephone: Repeating the same action, and expecting a different outcome is the definition of insanity, ya know?
Rich Russillo: AND LIMMY MONAGHAN COUNTERS WITH A SHOT TO THE RIB CAGE! SHIFTING THE MOMENTUM WITH A SUPLEX OF HIS OWN- BUT CANDICE FLOATS OVER BEHIND LIMMY, AND SHOVES HIM TOWARD THE ROPES!
Persephone: I believe Candice was expecting Limmy to come rebounding back, but he actually hangs onto the top rope, halting his momentum.
Rich Russillo: CANDICE GROWS IMPATIENT, AND CHARGES TOWARD LIMMY! BUT FELL RIGHT INTO HIS TRAP AS HE SIDESTEPS HER, SENDING CANDICE OUT THROUGH THE MIDDLE ROPE! BLAIR LANDS ON HER FEET, AND LIMMY RUNS OFF THE ROPES FOR A TOPE CON HILO!
Persephone: Jeez, that’s the second time Limmy flew in this match. For an injured man, you’d think he’d play it a little safer, but what do I know?
Rich Russillo: Limmy is definitely willing to sacrifice himself even further for the W it seems, and pulls Candice back to her feet for an IRISH WHIP INTO THE BARRICADE! CANDICE HIT BACK FIRST, AND STARTS TO STAGGER AWAY! BUT LIMMY CATCHES UP, TURNING CANDICE AROUND FOR A RIGHT HAND!
Persephone: Again, Candice turns around, and tries to retreat like a little pussy to create further separation.
Rich Russillo: Limmy catches up to her again, and grabs a hold of Candice’s head, directing her towards our announce table before she gets slammed off of it FACE FIRST! CANDICE’S FACE RICOCHET’D FACE FIRST OFF THE ANNOUNCE TABLE!
(Candice drops to a knee before Limmy rolls back inside the ring briefly, restarting the referee’s count before looking to go back to work on the outside.)
Rich Russillo: Smart. Limmy restarted the referee’s count, and removes the cover from our announce table!
Persephone: Yes! Kill her!
Rich Russillo: Limmy climbs to the top of our announce table, and tries to drag Candice up there as well, having a handful of hair- BUT CANDICE GRABS HOLD OF HIS ANKLE, AND PULLS IT OUT FROM UNDER HIM! LIMMY FALLS BACK FIRST ONTO THE ANNOUNCE TABLE, AND CANDICE CLIMBS ONTO THE ANNOUNCE TABLE HERSELF! MOUNTING LIMMY WITH RIGHT HANDS!
Persephone: And look at Selina, watching on like a cheerleader as her partner goes to work.
Rich Russillo: Candice dismounts from Limmy, and drops off the announce table. Candicr then pulls Limmy up to a knee on said table, and hooks him up for a SUPLEX! CANDICE SUPLEXES LIMMY FROM OFF THE TOP TABLE, AND LIMMY HIT HARD ON THE OUTSIDE! AGAIN, THAT BACK STILL SORE FROM THE APRON POWERBOMB, AND CANDICE HAS NO ISSUES TARGETING IT!
Persephone: Good, you don’t wear tape like a bullseye unless you wanted it targeted.
Rich Russillo: Despite hitting the suplex, both competitors are feeling the effects with Candice writhing in pain herself. But does will herself on as she rolls Limmy back inside the ring. Candice slithers in herself, and crawls into the cover! Hooking the leg!
ONNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
Rich Russillo: KICKOUT! Limmy still has enough fight within him to kickout, showing it won’t be that easy, nor did I imagine Candice thought it would be either. She knows Limmy is a tough opponent, and is exploiting any and every advantage she can get over him, especially targeting that damaged back.
Persephone: Long as it makes the end faster, I got no problem with it.
Rich Russillo: Limmy sits up on the canvas, and CANDICE CHOPS HIM ACROSS THE BACK WITH A KNIFE EDGE CHOP! THEN FOLLOWS IT UP WITH A PENALTY KICK TO THE CHEST, LAYING LIMMY FLAT FOR A STANDING MOONSAULT! CANDICE HOOKS THE LEG ONCE MORE FOR A COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOO!!
Persephone: I’ll admit, that was a nice little combo from Candice. It’s rare that she does something that leaves me impressed.
Rich Russillo: Limmy sits up off the canvas, and Candice drives her KNEE into his back! Keeping it pressed between his shoulders blades, and pulls his head back for a rear chinlock!
Persephone: Wake me up once this is over. Thanks.
Rich Russillo: Not so fast, Persephone. The crowd are rallying behind Monaghan here to fight free from this, which he uses as fuel to power back to his feet! Limmy battles back with alternating shots to the rib cage, loosening the grip of Candice- BUT BLAIR FIRES BACK WITH A KNEE TO THE GUT!
Persephone: Limmy Monaghan doubles over after that…
Rich Russillo: AND CANDICE SCORES WITH A SCISSORS STOMP TO THE BACK OF HIS HEAD, JOLTING HIM UPRIGHT FOR A ROLLING ELBOW! LIMMY STUMBLES BACK AGAINST THE ROPES, AND GROGGILY REBOUNDS OFF INTO THE CLUTCHES OF CANDICE BLAIR! WHO SCOOPS LIMMY UP ONTO HER SHOULDERS IN A FIREMANS CARRY, USING EVERY OUNCE OF STRENGTH SHE HAS!
Persephone: Nevermind. Limmy slips off the shoulders of Blair, and shoves her toward the ropes-
Rich Russillo: BUT CANDICE BLAIR TILT-A-WHIRLS AROUND LIMMY FOR A CROSSFACE! TILT-A-WHIRL CROSSFACE BY CANDICE BLAIR! CANDICE PULLS BACK ON THE HOLD, WHICH BY APPLYING PRESSURE TO THE NECK, REACHES THE SPINAL AREA AS WELL! SOMETHING CANDICE HAS BEEN TARGETING THROUGHOUT TONIGHT’S MATCH!
Persephone: TAP!
Rich Russillo: LIMMY RAISES HIS HAND, CONSIDERING IT!
Persephone: YES, DO IT! CMON, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?!
Rich Russillo: LIMMY LOOKS LIKE HES GOING TO TAP- BUT DECIDES AGAINST IT! TURNING THE CROSSFACE INTO A COVER INSTEAD, ROLLING CANDICE ONTO HER SHOULDERS!
ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
Rich Russillo: KICKOUT! BUT IN DOING SO, CANDICE RELEASES THE HOLD AS WELL! BOTH COMPETITORS SCRAMBLE BACK TO THEIR FEET, AND CANDICE BEATS LIMMY TO THE PUNCH, ONLY SLIGHTLY! AND DRIVES LIMMY BACK FIRST INTO THE CORNER, THRUSTING HER SHOULDER INTO HIS GUT!
Persephone: Limmy is stunned, and Candice grabs him in a front facelock before climbing to the middle rope.
Rich Russillo: CANDICE IS GOING FOR THE STARLIGHT- SCRATCH THAT, WAS GOING FOR STARLIGHT! THAT TORNADO DDT OF HERS, BUT LIMMY PULLED FREE FROM THE FRONT FACELOCK, AND EXPLODED WITH A KNIFE EDGE CHOP AS CANDICE SITS ON THE TOP TURNBUCKLE!
Persephone: Limmy moves her legs from inside the ropes to outside, and blasts her with a right hand before he climbs to the middle rope.
Rich Russillo: Candice Blair is rocked, and I’m eager to see what Limmy is going for as he hooks up… OH, WAIT A MINUTE- AVALANCHE GUTWRENCH SUPLEX BY LIMMY MONAGHAN! WHAT A MANEUVER! BUT LOOK, HIS HANDS ARE STILL LOCKED AROUND CANDICE’S, AND LIMMY ROLLS THROUGH HIMSELF THROUGH TO A VERTICAL BASE!
Persephone: No way.
Rich Russillo: PAIN IS ETCHED ACROSS THE FACE OF MONAGHAN, BUT HES GRITTING THROUGH IT, AND DEADLIFTS BLAIR UP INTO SIT-OUT GUTWRENCH POWERBOMB! BEAUTIFUL MOVE! BEAUTIFUL COMBO BY THE ACE, AND LIMMY HOLDS IT FOR A COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHHHHHHRRRRRRR-
Rich Russillo: SHOULDER UP! CANDICE GOT THE SHOULDER UP, AND LIMMY LIES BACK ON THE CANVAS! THE WEAR AND TEAR BEGINNING TO SHOW FROM BOTH COMPETITORS!
Persephone: Candice rolls away from Limmy, and favors her back in pain. Seems like she’s getting a taste of her own medicine here.
Rich Russillo: Selina starts pounding the mat, attempting to will Candice on back to her feet.
Persephone: Both Limmy and Candice make their way to all fours, which is unfortunate, because I was hoping we’d have a similar situation to Limmy and Xander at King of Elite where they both just get counted out or something.
Rich Russillo: Limmy crawls toward Candice, and reaches out to grab a handful of hair. Monaghan drags Blair back to a vertical base, and BLASTS her with a forearm strike! CANDICE FIRES BACK WITH ONE OF HER OWN, STAGGERING LIMMY BACK SLIGHTLY?
Persephone: Candice goes to follow it up, closing the distance-
Rich Russillo: BUT WALKS RIGHT INTO A FOREARM FROM LIMMY! NOW, CANDICE WITH A FOREARM! LIMMY WITH A FOREARM! CANDICE WITH MULTIPLE FOREARMS BACK TO BACK ON MONAGHAN, CONNECTING WITH THREE THAT LEAVE HIM ON WOBBLY LEGS!
(Monaghan lets out a war cry, getting a second wind before-)
Rich Russillo: WHOA! LIMMY MONAGHAN FIRES UP, AND CONNECTS WITH MULTIPLE FOREARM STRIKES OF HIS OWN! NOW, CANDICE FINDS HERSELF IN SIMILAR POSITION TO LIMMY! ON WOBBLY LEGS, AND STRUGGLING TO SEND!
Persephone: Hopefully, one of them just drops. I wouldn’t mind dead either.
Rich Russillo: CANDICE EXPLODES WITH A PUSH KICK, SENDING LIMMY BACK INTO THE ROPES, AND HE REBOUNDS OFF FOR A CLOTHESLINE! CANDICE RUSHES BACK TO HER FEET, AND GETS CAUGHT WITH A KICK TO THE GUT! FOLLOWED BY A PENALTY KICK TO THE CHEST THAT JOLTS CANDICE BLAIR UPRIGHT! AND LIMMY FLOORS HER WITH A DIABLE JAMBE! BICYCLE KNEE STRIKE CONNECTS!
Persephone: Good! Now, go for the cover!
Rich Russillo: HE WOULD, BUT LIMMY WANTS SOMETHING DEFINITIVE! AND CLIMBS TO THE TOP ROPE, PERCHING HIMSELF FOR THE HIGH FLY FLOW! BUT CANDICE BLAIR ROLLS OUT THE WAY OF THAT FROG SPLASH, AND LIMMY ROLLS THROUGH TO HIS FEET!
Persephone: Candice shoots from out of the corner-
Rich Russillo: BUT LIMMY POPS HER IN THE AIR FOR A DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! HE GOT HER WITH EXCALIBUR, AND HOOKS THE LEG DEEP FOR A COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHHHHHHHHRRRRRRREEEEEEEEE-
Persephone: FUCK! SO CLOSE!
Rich Russillo: CANDICE STAYS ALIVE IN THIS MATCH, AND LIMMY CANT BELIEVE IT! FEELING HE HAD CANDICE BEAT RIGHT THEN AND THERE, AS DID THE REST OF US! BUT LIMMY ISNT THE TYPE TO COMPLAIN EITHER! IF HE MUST, HE WILL KEEP GOING UNTIL CANDICE IS DOWN FOR GOOD!
(Limmy removes his elbow pad while rising back to his feet, and tosses it out into the audience.)
Rich Russillo: Uh-oh.
Persephone: Yes! No one kicks out of this! Hit it, so I can go home!
Rich Russillo: Limmy marches to the corner, and stalks Candice as she rises to a knee. She has no idea what’s behind her as Limmy comes charging in with the- DIVINE DEPARTURE! HE WENT FOR IT, BUT CANDICE BLAIR DUCKS UNDERNEATH IT! LIMMY HURRIES BACK TO HIS FEET, AND EATS A KICK TO THE GUT FOR HIS TROUBLES! CANDICE PULLS HIM INTO A FRONT FACELOCK, AND KICKS OFF THE TOP TURNBUCKLE FOR MOMENTUM! …STARLIGHT!
Persephone: Candice just spiked Limmy onto his head with the tornado DDT, and crawls into the cover.
ONNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHHHHHHHHHRRRRRRRRREEEEE-
Rich Russillo: KICKOUT! BUT CANDICE ISN’T DETERRED, AND REMAINS FOCUSED ON THE TASK AT HAND! WHICH IS PUTTING LIMMY DOWN, AND DRAGS HIM UP BY THE HAIR! GOING FOR A MOVE THAT JUST MIGHT, WHICH IS CASTLES CRUMBLING!
Persephone: Candice went for the Canadian Destroyer, but of course, Likmy had to counter it!
Rich Russillo: WITH A BACK BODY DROP, SENDING CANDICE OVERHEAD! HOWEVER, LANDS ON HER FEET, AND LIMMY MIGHT NOT KNOW IT YET AS HE STAGGERS TO THE CORNER! BUT CANDICE RUSHES IN WITH A RUNNING EUROPEAN UPPERCUT, AND SNAPMARES LIMMY DOWN TO THE CANVAS FOR A SEATED POSITION! CANDICE HOPS TO THE MIDDLE ROPE, AND FLIES OFF WITH A CORKSCREW BACK ELBOW TO THE REAR OF HIS NECK!
Persephone: Limmy rolls away, writhing in pain, and Candice crawls into the cover!
ONNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHHHH-
Persephone: The universe doesn’t want me to be happy as there’s a kickout by Limmy. Great.
Rich Russillo: Candice crawls away from Limmy, and pulls herself up in the corner. Candice is gesturing, even urging for Limmy Monaghan to get up! Limmy is beginning to stir, and does eventually rise back to his feet as Candice SPINS OUT OF THE CORNER-
Persephone: Superkick!
Rich Russillo: LIMMY MONAGHAN CAUGHT CANDICE BLAIR WITH A SUPERKICK, AND STUMBLES OVER TO THE ROPES, STRUGGLING TO STAND AS CANDICE DROPS TO A KNEE!
Persephone: Quit being a baby, and capitalize already!
Rich Russillo: LIMMY SHAKES THE COBWEBS OUT OF HIS HEAD, AND BOUNCES OFF THE ROPES FOR A CLOTHESLINE OF HIS OWN AS CANDICE RETURNS TO HER FEET- BUT SHE AVOIDS THE CLOTHESLINE BY FLOATING OVER LIMMY INTO POSITION FOR A CASTLES CRUMBLING! CANADIAN DESTROYER-
Persephone: NO!
Rich Russillo: CANDICE WENT TO FLIP OVER FOR THE CANADIAN DESTROYER- BUT LIMMY BLOCKED IT LAST MINUTE! STANDING HIS GROUND WITH CANDICE OVER HIS SHOULDER FOR A BACK TO BELLY PILEDRIVER ONTO HIS KNEE! LIMMY DROPS INTO THE COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHHHHHHHHHRRRRRRRRRE-
Rich Russillo: STILL NOT ENOUGH, DESPITE THE INNOVATIVE COUNTER FROM MONAGHAN!
Persephone: I guess I’ll be here all night then…
Rich Russillo: Candice begins stirring to all fours, and Limmy drags her up in a front facelock. BUT CANDICE EXPLODES WITH A FOREARM! LIMMY LANDS ONE OF HIS OWN! AND BOTH BEGIN TRADING IN THE CENTER OF THE RING! LIMMY! CANDICE! LIMMY! CANDICE! LIMMY! CANDICE! WHO WILL BE THE FIRST ONE TO BUDGE?!
Persephone: Looks like Limmy as Candice caught him flush with one, and it looks like he can barely stand.
Rich Russillo: BUT HE MIGHT HAVE BEEN PLAYING POSSUM, AND BLASTS CANDICE WITH A DISCUS ROLLING ELBOW! CANDICE SPINS AROUND FROM THE IMPACT, AND LIMMY CHARGES IN WITH A SWINGING BACK ELBOW ATTEMPT FOR A DIVINE DEPARTURE!
Persephone: I wish, but Candice ducks underneath.
Rich Russillo: LIMMY SPINS AROUND, AND ALMOST GETS CAUGHT WITH A ROUNDHOUSE KICK! BUT DUCKS UNDERNEATH IT, AND CANDICE SPINS BACK AROUND FOR A JUMPING ENZIGURI! NOW, LIMMY SPINS AROUND THE IMPACT, AND CANDICE POPS BACK TO HER FEET- OVERHEAD KICK! OVERHEAD KICK BY LIMMY, AND BOTH COMPETITORS ARE DOWN!
Persephone: But Limmy is the first to show signs of life, rising up to all fours.
Rich Russillo: Gears are turning in Monaghan’s head as he notices Candice sprawled down on the canvas. Limmy stands himself back up, and staggers toward the corner, climbing with his back turned to Candice- BUT BIG MISTAKE AS CANDICE WINDS UP CROTCHING LIMMY MONAGHAN ON THE TOP TURNBUCKLE, AND LIMMY FALLS INTO A TREE OF WOE POSITION! HANGING UPSIDE DOWN IN THE CORNER!
Persephone: Candice climbs to the top rope, and perches herself there as Limmy tries to sit up-
Rich Russillo: LEAPING DOUBLE FOOT STOMP BY CANDICE! BUT LIMMY DROPPED BACK DOWN INTO THE TREE OF WOE TO AVOID IT, AND BLAIR ROLLED THROUGH TO HER FEET! CANDICE CHARGES IN FOR A SPEAR TO LIMMY IN THE CORNER! BUT HE SITS UP IN THE TREE OF WOE, AND CANDICE CRASHES SHOULDER FIRST INTO THE RINGPOST!
Persephone: Dumb bitch ran right into it!
Rich Russillo: LIMMY SAT HIMSELF UP ON THE TOP ROPE, AND TURNS AROUND TO FACE CANDICE AS SHE COLLAPSES DOWN TO THE CANVAS, WRITHING IN PAIN AS SHE CLUTCHES HER SHOULDER! LIMMY PERCHES HIMSELF ON THE TOP… HIGH FLY FLOW! LIMMY HOOKS THE LEG FOR A COVER!
ONNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
THHHHHHHHHHRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEE!!
(DING! DING! DING!)
Bella Braxton: HERES YOUR WINNER… LIMMY MONAGHAN!
(‘Number One’ by Shirō Sagisu & Hazel Fernandes hits to a positive reaction as Limmy Monaghan rolls off the cover on canvas, and pulls himself up with assistance from the ropes before having his hand raised by the ref, and doubling over afterwards to favor his back.)
Rich Russillo: Wow, what a match!
Persephone: It was something.
Rich Russillo: Yeah, a fantastic showing from both competitors, who was smart all throughout. But in the end, all it took was one mistake, and Limmy managed to capitalize. Keeping his momentum rolling from Grand Rampage, and who knows? Maybe into Pain for Pride as well.
(Limmy leans against the ropes as Selina checks on a downed Candice in the ring. Limmy gives Candice a nod of respect, and rolls out, heading to the back as the camera fades elsewhere.)
(Commercial for the new movie ‘Sinners’, in theaters now.)
(Voltage returns to ringside, and ‘Apostle’s Warning’ by Mobb Deep hits, causing the crowd to explode with cheers. The camera pans towards the stage, and before long the EAW World Champion begins walking out to the stage. Michael Machina is wearing his EAW World Championship around his waist, and he is holding a microphone in his hand. Machina has a smirk on his face as he looks towards the fans in attendance, before finally beginning to walk down the ramp.)
Rich Russillo: Our EAW World Champion is here following an impressive title defense at Grand Rampage against Daryl Kinkade, and right now it looks like he’s getting very close to his first Pain for Pride main event!
Persephone: I don’t know how Michael Machina of all people is a potential Pain for Pride main eventer, but I guess that’s what happens when Elitists like Daryl Kinkade and Jake Smith are the ones expected to stop him.
Rich Russillo: Well Michael Machina has a microphone, so let’s see what he has to say as we get closer to Fighting Spirit, and after that, Pain for Pride!
(Michael Machina jumps onto the apron, before stepping through the ropes to enter the ring. ‘Apostle’s Warning’ begins to fade out after this, and Machina begins to speak.)
Michael Machina: There’s not much to say about Grand Rampage that you all didn’t already see with your own eyes. I told Daryl what I was gonna do, and I did it. I don’t consider myself the type of man to make promises just for the sake of it. When I say I’m gonna do something I do it, which is why I’m the one holding this Championship. All season long I’ve had Elitists like Daryl come up to me thinking that I couldn’t stop them from reaching whatever their goals may have been, and that never bothered me because I knew what was gonna happen the moment we got in the ring. Pain for Pride is in only a few months and I’m gonna be in the main event of that show, so it doesn’t matter who else wants to take me down. It doesn’t matter how many more people want their shot. I’ll give all of you the fight you’re looking for just like I did Daryl, and you’re gonna be put in the ground.
(The fans in attendance begin to cheer Michael Machina, who after a moment begins to speak once again.)
Michael Machina: With Pain for Pride so close I could easily take a step back. I could hide like the last few people to hold this title would. I could do whatever I could to get out of defending my title so a Pain for Pride main event isn’t guaranteed, but that’s not who I am. That’s not what I’m here for, and I’m not about to waste these next two months doing things the easy way when I know very well there’s still people in the back who want their shot at this title. I’ll defend this Championship as many times as I need to, and I’m ready to get back in the ring. I’m ready to keep putting this title on the line, so if there’s anyone who still thinks they have what it takes to take the EAW World Championship from me just know that I’m not going anywhere. This isn’t the same type of reign this brand had to deal with for the past year. I’m not hiding. I’m not backing away. I’m standing right here, and I’m opening the door for whoever thinks they can take the Pain for Pride main event spot away from me.
(After only a few seconds, ‘The World is Gonna End Tonight’ by Dan Romer and Peter Harper hits. This receives a loud reaction as the fans are surprised, but they soon begin to boo as Solomon Stane begins to walk out to the stage. Michael Machina stares at Solomon, who can be seen holding a microphone of his own as he begins to slowly walk down the ramp, ignoring the boos coming from the fans.)
Rich Russillo: Well this is interesting! The former Hardcore Champion Solomon Stane is here, and he seemingly is taking Michael Machina up on his challenge following the loss of his Hardcore title back at Grand Rampage!
Persephone: Why? Solomon just lost to Dr. Bethany Blue. Why would he think he deserves a World Championship match right now?
Rich Russillo: Solomon has had an extremely impressive season, so I’d say he has earned this. Besides, I don’t think being deserving matters when an open challenge is involved. Machina just wants a fight, and it looks like Solomon may give him that.
(Solomon Stane walks up the steel steps, before entering the ring and walking up to Michael Machina. His entrance music fades out as the two Elitists stare at each other, and Solomon begins to speak.)
Solomon Stane: Grand Rampage did not end as intended. It’s a travesty that my reign as Hardcore Champion ended at the hands of Dr. Bethany Blue. She is the last Elitist that should’ve found themselves succeeding at my expense, but by no means am I dead. That match did not keep me down. It did not bring about the end of my career. It was nothing more than a setback, and that setback will be overcome before this season comes to an end. The only right way to move forward following an event like this is to keep making progress towards my goals, and I began working towards one of those goals when this year started, and I found myself in the finals of the King of Elite tournament against TLA and Drake Armstrong. I was unsuccessful at the King of Elite event as Armstrong would become 2025’s King of Elite, but my pursuit of the World Championship is not yet over. Especially not now that I have the opportunity I was looking for, and the only thing standing in my way is the World Champion himself.
(This receives a loud reaction from the fans in attendance, and Michael Machina has a focused look on his face hearing these words from Solomon.)
Solomon Stane: I know what is next for me, and you simply made that path easier for me with this open challenge. You say you’re willing to defend your Championship as many times as necessary before Pain for Pride, so I’ll let you know right now that only one defense will be necessary, because that defense will be your last. The EAW World Championship will be mine soon enough, because that’s what the Lord has planned for me. Michael Machina, you have spent the last few months proving to be a very efficient Champion. You’ve welcomed every challenge that has come your way and you have walked out of every battle with your hand raised. You’ve done everything in your power to remain the World Champion, but your time as Champion is reaching its end. You will be losing your place at the top of the mountain before long. The only question is how you plan to go out, and you can answer that question by answering this. Will you defend your EAW World Championship against me?
(There’s a brief staredown between the two Elitists as the fans are still loud, and before long Michael Machina begins to speak once more.)
Michael Machina: I’m a man of my word. If you want a fight, you got it. That’s what I told every single one of my challengers, and you’re no exception. I put out this challenge for a reason. You got your match.
(The crowd explodes with cheers, and Solomon Stane appears satisfied as he begins to speak once more.)
Solomon Stane: Then it has been decided. I’ll be seeing you at-
???: WAIT ONE SECOND!
(The fans immediately begin to boo, recognizing the voice as Michael Machina and Solomon Stane turn towards the stage. Before long, Daryl Kinkade can be seen beginning to walk out, holding a microphone in his hand as the boos grow even louder. Daryl Kinkade begins to slowly walk down the ramp, continuing to speak on his way down to ringside.)
Daryl Kinkade: Do the two of you really think you can just set up a match between yourselves and be done with it? We’re approaching Pain for Pride season, bruv. The entire roster is looking to take their shot and find their way to the very top of the Pain for Pride card, and even if many of the other people in the back don’t care enough to get themselves in that position, I do. Machina, I know you saw what happened earlier tonight. I took out Methuselah, and since then I’ve heard all of the questions. I know people have been wondering why I’d do what I did, but to you the answer should already be clear. I did what I did to send a message, not to Methuselah, but to the man holding what I want. I’m after the EAW World Championship, and I’m not letting anyone stand in the way of me getting what I want.
Michael Machina: So what, you think attacking Methuselah is gonna win you this title?
Daryl Kinkade: No, but it definitely didn’t hurt. I know you thought you could just get rid of me after winning back at Grand Rampage, and to your credit, you took a very important night away from me. However, I’m still here. I’m not done yet, and if I’m gonna climb back to that title I need to be willing to take out any potential threats. Of course, this also includes the two of you.
(After this, Kinkade turns his attention towards Solomon Stane.)
Daryl Kinkade: You might as well forget about the EAW World Championship, because that title is mine. You had the Hardcore Championship to yourself, but you couldn’t hold onto it and that’s your problem. You’re not going to get in the way of me ending my season as the EAW World Champion and living up to the promise I made for the British Invasion, so if I were you I’d just step to the side. If you want your World title winning moment, you’re better off waiting until next season and hoping you’re drafted to a different brand-
(Suddenly, ‘Praise Gawd’ by Kanye West hits, which causes a loud reaction from the fans in attendance. Daryl Kinkade, who is standing at ringside, quickly turns towards the stage. From there, he watches as Methuselah begins to walk out to the stage. Methuselah is not holding a microphone of his own, and he looks furious following Daryl’s attack on Methuselah earlier in the night.)
Rich Russillo: Uh oh… Methuselah is here following Daryl Kinkade’s attempt to get himself back involved with the EAW World Championship picture, and I don’t think Methuselah is too happy right now!
Persephone: Of course he isn’t. He got attacked earlier in the night by Daryl, and apparently the reason was extremely stupid, too.
Rich Russillo: Methuselah makes his way down the ramp, AND HE BEGINS CHARGING IN TOWARDS DARYL, CAUSING KINKADE TO RUN TOWARDS METHUSELAH AS THE TWO MEN BEGIN TO BRAWL AT RINGSIDE! A FIGHT HAS BROKEN OUT BETWEEN THE TWO HERE, RIGHT AFTER MICHAEL MACHINA AND SOLOMON STANE SET UP A FUTURE EAW WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH BETWEEN THEMSELVES! IT WAS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE THIS HAPPENED!
Persephone: Methuselah throws Daryl into the barricade before running in- but Daryl gets out of the way before hitting Methuselah with a forearm. Daryl sends Methuselah into the ring post after that before following behind, but Methuselah hits a back elbow before grabbing Kinkade, and slamming his face into the ring post.
Rich Russillo: Daryl begins to stumble towards the ramp as Methuselah heads over to him, BUT KINKADE KICKS METHUSELAH IN THE MIDSECTION! Kinkade now pounding away at the back of Methuselah- BEFORE FINALLY METHUSELAH GRABS THE LEGS OF DARYL, TAKING HIM TO THE MAT WITH A DOUBLE LEG TAKEDOWN!! BOTH MEN ARE ON THE FLOOR NOW AS METHUSELAH IS ON TOP OF DARYL, PUNCHING AWAY AT HIM!
Persephone: Daryl lands a few punches to Methuselah in return though, before he is finally able to push Methuselah off of him. Kinkade hits one more right hand, and now both men start to get back up before- wait, NO! Oh come on!
Rich Russillo: SECURITY IS HERE!!! It looks like Captain Charisma saw that fight earlier, and has brought security out here to make sure things don’t get out of hand between these two!
Persephone: But this was literally the only interesting thing that has happened since Machina got out here. That sucks.
(As the security guards pull Methuselah and Daryl Kinkade away from each other, Captain Charisma begins to make his way out to the stage, which causes the fans in attendance to cheer. Michael Machina and Solomon Stane watch from the ring as Captain Charisma can be seen holding a microphone in his hand. While on the stage, the Voltage Commissioner begins to speak.)
Captain Charisma: I know that things are getting pretty heated, but if you give me a moment, I think you’ll all be happy with what I have to say.
(Daryl Kinkade and Methuselah stare at Captain Charisma, waiting to hear what he has to say as he continues.)
Captain Charisma: As we all know we’re on the road to Pain for Pride, and it’s important that we do everything in our power to give these people the shows they deserve. I’m all about making things exciting for the fans, and it’s because of this that I’d like to announce something very special for them right now. Something that I’m sure will interest the four of you as well. See, on May 4th we will be having ourselves a special show ahead of Fighting Spirit. This show will be important not just to Fighting Spirit, but to Pain for Pride itself. It’ll give members of the Voltage roster chances to get exactly where they want to be at the biggest show of the year, so on May 4th we will be seeing the Voltage supershow, Golden Gods!
(The fans begin to cheer hearing this, but Captain Charisma continues, not finished speaking just yet.)
Captain Charisma: That’s not all either, as there’s a reason I felt the need to separate this fight so soon. Daryl I know you want a shot at the EAW World Championship, and Methuselah wants some payback after Kinkade picked a fight with him, so next week we’ll be having ourselves a contendership match between the two of you. Whoever wins will be headed to the Golden Gods supershow, where they will be facing Michael Machina for the EAW World Championship!
(This receives another loud reaction as Methuselah and Daryl Kinkade glance at the Champion, before turning towards each other. Solomon Stane on the other hand looks confused regarding what he just heard, until Captain Charisma begins to speak once more.)
Captain Charisma: As for you Solomon, I understand you accepted Machina’s open challenge, and after a great Hardcore Championship reign I intend to honor that. However… It might not be Michael Machina you face for the EAW World Championship, as you’ll be getting your match at Fighting Spirit, where the winner of the Championship match at Golden Gods faces you!
(This receives another loud reaction, and after this, Captain Charisma grins towards the fans before beginning to make his way to the back. The security guards slowly begin to back away from Daryl and Methuselah, who take a moment to think about what they just heard from the Commissioner, as they now both have the opportunity to get back towards the EAW World Championship.)
Rich Russillo: That was one hell of an announcement, wasn’t it!? I can’t say I expected something like this, but it looks like there are not one, but TWO EAW World Championship matches to look forward to before Pain for Pride!
Persephone: And I am interested in a grand total of zero potential matchups here. It’s almost impressive how boring every match here could be, but whatever. Contendership match next week, Machina versus the winner at Golden Gods, then Solomon versus that winner at Fighting Spirit. Did I get that right?
Rich Russillo: You sure did! This is an interesting scenario, especially for Michael Machina, who is the current Champion! Machina has always welcomed any challengers no matter how many, but knowing how close we are to Pain for Pride, the Voltage roster is surely hungrier than ever. If there was ever any time for Machina’s reign to come to an end, it very well could be in the very near future.
(Michael Machina stands in the center of the ring, and he looks focused knowing everything that’s now in his way. Methuselah and Daryl Kinkade are both on the ramp, and much like Solomon Stane inside of the ring, they are all staring directly at the Champion. Michael Machina looks towards his three potential challengers, appearing ready for everything that’s to come as Voltage begins fading to black.)
(EAW logo buzzes.)
