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Voltage 4/23/23

(EAW Intro plays.)

(Instead of the expected recap of Grand Rampage, Voltage opens up to the inside of the production truck, where a few workers are seen as well as Drake King, one of the participants in the Grand Rampage match. Drake is angry, and he is yelling at the workers. It looks like the argument had already been going on for some time, as Drake seems to be speaking already as soon as the camera is able to pick up his voice.)

Drake King: STOP, I ALREADY TOLD YOU ALL TO STOP! DON’T YOU DARE SHOW ANY HIGHLIGHTS OF GRAND RAMPAGE! NO GRAND RAMPAGE RECAPS ARE ALLOWED HERE, JUST MOVE ON ALREADY!

(The workers in the production team are trying to convince Drake that they won’t play the recap, but the argument doesn’t seem to be going anywhere.)

Worker: :whoa: Alright alright! We’re not going to play anything from Grand Rampage! You can leave now!

Drake King: How do I know you’re not lying!? You’re just going to play the recap as soon as I leave, I’m not stupid! I need to know for a fact that you won’t play it!

Worker #2: Just go! We’re not going to play anything!

Drake King: There better not be any Grand Rampage highlights, I’ll know if you guys lied!

Worker #3: Please leave!

(Drake listens to everyone arguing back, and reluctantly he begins to leave. The workers all look at each other, sharing similar looks of disbelief over the argument that just occurred. From there Voltage fades to the Bermuda National Sports Centre in Devonshire Parish, Bermuda. ‘33rd Blakk Glass’ by Zillakami & SosMula plays, and pyro shoots out as the fans in attendance are all cheering loudly. After a little while, the camera cuts to the commentary team, where James Peters, Rich Russillo and Persephone are seen.)

James Peters: Ladies and gentlemen… Welcome back to Sunday night Voltage. Honestly… I’m still a bit taken aback by what we just saw.

Rich Russillo: Was that Drake King… Yelling at the production team?

Persephone: Who cares? This is the part where we talk about all of the “great” matches coming up, like TLA versus Miku Sakai, the #DisneyIForgotTheirNames versus Hikari Kanno and Ayu Megumi, and all that other stuff!

James Peters: You’re right about that. Voltage this week is going to be amazing, and how could it not be after the show we’re coming from? Grand Rampage was great, and-

(Voltage cuts to the stage, and ‘Low of Solipsism II’ by Yoshihisa Hirano hits. As soon as the song hits, all of the fans in the arena begin to boo as loud as they can. The boos only grow louder as Drake King storms out to the stage, and Drake looks furious after the events of Grand Rampage. Drake is holding a microphone in his hand, and doesn’t waste any time on the stage at all, instead heading directly towards the ring. He’s clearly upset about the Grand Rampage match, where he would lose to Kassidy Heart, and as he walks down the ramp he doesn’t pay any attention to the loud fans booing.)

James Peters: Well I didn’t even get to finish my sentence, and now I see why. Drake King looks more upset than usual, and I don’t think it takes a genius to understand why that’s the case. He promised to win the Grand Rampage match and in the end he came very close to doing so as he made it to the final two, but ultimately he was eliminated by Kassidy Heart.

Rich Russillo: It’s funny. For someone that claims to hate the Grand Rampage match, Drake already looks more frustrated by his loss than most of the participants from the other two brands.

Persephone: I don’t know why he’s so upset, the Grand Rampage was great! Rexy eliminating Cage and getting the Pain for Pride main event he deserves, it was perfect!

James Peters: I don’t think you’re talking about the right match…

(Drake makes it to the bottom of the ramp, beginning to speak before his music could even fade out.)

Drake King: No no no no, STOP, CUT THE MUSIC! Stop it! Stop everything! It’s been a week and I’ve already had it with this company trying to move on from what happened at Grand Rampage as if any of it was okay!

(The boos continue as Drake walks up the steel steps, entering the ring.)

Drake King: That was a TRAVESTY! It was a joke! Kassidy Heart was allowed to make a mockery of what’s ALREADY a horrible industry, AND NOBODY IS DOING ANYTHING ABOUT IT! I can’t do this. That was the worst possible outcome. That was the worst way Grand Rampage could have ended, and there is no way I’m going to sit here for the next few months and listen to the entire world pretend that it’s a GOOD thing Kassidy Heart was allowed to win the Grand Rampage! You all had ONE JOB. ONE JOB! She was one of the first people to enter the match, and NONE OF YOU were able to throw her over the top rope??? Not a single person in this match could take Kassidy out and prevent THIS!? What kind of place is this!? For an entire WEEK I had to listen to hundreds of promises, threats, and words I KNEW weren’t going to mean anything by the time the match came around. An entire week of the same garbage I said was going to make everyone look bad from the start, AND NOW WE’RE ALL JUST GOING TO PRETEND IT NEVER HAPPENED WHEN *SHE* WON!? The Grand Rampage match needed to be taken away. That match needed to be out of the hands of the EAW roster, and instead… THIS happens! This isn’t what was supposed to happen. This isn’t how it was supposed to go, and NOBODY is treating this like the problem that it is! The Elitists, the management, NONE OF YOU ARE DOING ANYTHING! I was given the number thirty entrant, and CLEARLY that didn’t actually mean anything! This was all just one big waste of time!

(Drake turns to the stage.)

Drake King: Methuselah, you need to do something about this! This needs to be fixed, right now!

(The boos grow even louder, and after a little while, ‘Blackstar’ by David Bowie hits. Drake waits inside of the ring, still frustrated with the Grand Rampage loss, and he watches on as Methuselah slowly begins to walk out to the stage. Unlike Drake, Methuselah actually looks pleased with what happened at Grand Rampage. He has a smile on his face as well as a microphone in his hand, and he begins walking down the ramp.)

James Peters: Well… I think that Drake hated what happened at Grand Rampage more than even we expected him to. Things didn’t go his way, and now he’s trying to get Methuselah to “fix it”, whatever that means.

Rich Russillo: Wait, I’m confused. Does he really expect Methuselah to try and undo his own wife’s history-making win or something?

James Peters: Looks like it.

Rich Russillo: Wow.

Persephone: Honestly, this doesn’t sound like anything new with Drake.

(Methuselah enters the ring, and ‘Blackstar’ begins to fade out. Methuselah still has a smile on his face, and this just further annoys Drake.)

Drake King: Well..? Are you going to do something about Kassidy?

(Methuselah takes a few seconds, maintaining that smile as he thinks about the Grand Rampage match, nodding his head.)

Methuselah: Kassidy… She really was great out there, wasn’t she?

Drake King: :skip:

Methuselah: Really, it couldn’t have been easy. The Grand Rampage match is grueling as is, but from the number five spot? How many people can say they’ve won the Grand Rampage match from that early on?

Drake King: What??

Methuselah: Don’t you agree? Even you could admit that it was beyond impressive, especially knowing that you’ve been through the Grand Rampage with an early spot in the past. There really aren’t enough words out there to describe just how proud I am. I always knew that Kassidy was the kind of Elitist that couldn’t be stopped once she wanted something, and setting her sights on the Grand Rampage match turned out to be a risk that paid off. She didn’t just win the Grand Rampage. She didn’t just earn a World Championship match. She made history! What Kassidy did is something that will never be forgotten, and being able to witness such a feat was incredible. Kassidy did everything that she promised, and can you really say that she didn’t deserve it knowing the kind of Elitists she had to go through in order to win that match? The fact that she had to survive twenty-nine Elitists is already amazing, but just think about who she had to share the ring with. Various names from the past, from Rex McAllister to Cy Henderson. Elitists Kassidy had history with such as TLA, Jack Ripley and Theon Nikolas. She even eliminated you to win the whole thing, and you’re a former Grand Rampage winner!

(Drake just looks around, unable to believe what he’s hearing right now.)

Drake King: What are you doing?

Methuselah: Is there something wrong?

Drake King: “Is there something wrong”??? YES THERE’S SOMETHING WRONG! Your wife is the Grand Rampage winner!

Methuselah: I know, isn’t it great?

Drake King: NO! Nothing about this is great!

Methuselah: Simmer down, Drake. Just calm down, everything will be okay. Sometimes things don’t go your way. You wanted the Grand Rampage match, and you did come very close to having it, just not close enough. Kassidy was able to eliminate you and earn herself a World Championship match at Pain for Pride while you were unable to do what you wanted, and that’s fine! You may not have won the Grand Rampage, but you’re still Drake King! You didn’t come this far for no reason, I’m sure you’ll find other opportunities to reach your goals. Grand Rampage just was not the one for you.

Drake King: …

Methuselah: I’m sure in time you’ll be able to move on from this. Besides, it’s not like you went down easily. You were defeated by the best of the best. If anything, you should be proud of yourself for being the final Elitist in her way-

Drake King: NO, THERE IS NOTHING TO BE PROUD OF! GRAND RAMPAGE WAS A FAILURE! A FAILURE THAT YOU SHOULD BE TRYING TO FIX, NOT CELEBRATE!

(Despite the yelling and the frustration from Drake, Methuselah keeps the smile on his face as he responds.)

Methuselah: What do you think I should do, Drake?

Drake King: DIVORCE HER! DIVORCE KASSIDY RIGHT NOW! SHE RUINED EVERYTHING! GET RID OF HER!

(This causes a loud reaction from the crowd, both from people booing and people that are just baffled by that kind of demand, and Methuselah just stares at Drake for a few seconds before finally beginning to respond.)

Methuselah: Well I’m not going to divorce the mother of my children and the woman I love very much.

Drake King: :francis:

Methuselah: … But, I’ll tell you what. You’re clearly not happy with how things played out at Grand Rampage, and I understand that. While I won’t be taking anything away from my wife after her performance in the Grand Rampage match, I can give you the opportunity to do something else I’m sure you’ve wanted to. How about I give you a match against Myles at Fighting Spirit?

(This causes extremely loud boos from the crowd, louder than the boos were for anything else so far. Drake King remains silent, clearly caught off guard by the offer and now needing to think about it.)

Drake King: …

(Drake doesn’t get much time to think about it however, as ‘Enemy Strike’ by Yuri Hayashi hits. This causes the fans in the arena to begin cheering as loud as they can, excited to see the EAW World Champion following his successful title defense against Daryl Kinkade at Grand Rampage. Myles walks out holding a microphone, and he doesn’t look too impressed with the conversation that’s going on inside of the ring.)

James Peters: Well it looks like Myles has his own thoughts on what’s going on here, and I don’t blame him! Methuselah was about to hand Drake an EAW Championship match! Of course Myles wouldn’t take something like that too kindly, especially given the history that he has with Drake!

Rich Russillo: I wonder what Myles will say. This is an interesting situation, and like you said there’s no way Myles would be happy about Drake just being given a shot at his title. At the same time however, Myles is known for not backing down from fights regardless of who it’s coming from.

Persephone: I think Myles should back down from this one. What does he gain by facing Drake, anyway? I think I’d be fine without them facing each other.

(Myles enters the ring, and as ‘Enemy Strike’ fades out, he immediately begins to speak.)

Myles: I’m really not sure what’s going on here between the two of you, but for the past few weeks I was fine looking past it because I was busy defending my Championship. Now you’re dragging me into this, and I can’t say I’m a fan of that.

(Myles looks at Drake before continuing.)

Myles: You know better than anybody that I’d have no problem defending this title against you. Even now I don’t. If you’re to be my third EAW Championship defense so be it, but when I fought as hard as I did to win this title back at King of Elite, I did it so I could stand at the very top of this brand. I did it so I could be the face of this brand. I did it so I could reclaim my spot at the top of the mountain, not so I could be some pawn in whatever’s going on between the two of you. I really don’t care about whatever happened at Grand Rampage. You thought you could win the match again and you didn’t. That’s nobody’s problem but yours, and this Championship isn’t about to be used as a consolation prize after all I’ve done to make sure it maintains its importance. This Championship should be in main events. This Championship should be defended against the best of the best in nothing but match of the year candidates. The LAST thing that I need after these past few months is to be reduced to an answer for your whining.

(Myles turns towards Methuselah, and he continues speaking as the fans cheer.)

Myles: What the hell are you thinking? It’s really not my business what your big plan is here, or why you even feel the need to cater to Drake, but do you really think that dragging me into your mess is a good idea? I don’t care what the two of you do, I’m not interested in having to further stress myself out with something as ridiculous as this pairing, but really is ridiculous and I’m not sure how you could even entertain the idea of Drake being rewarded for crying, let alone be the one to make the suggestion in the first place. I’m tired, honestly. I’ve already spent weeks sharing my thoughts on this Championship reign and making it known that I haven’t been entirely happy with everything that’s happened to me since becoming Champion. I never needed a handout to make up for that. I didn’t need to be rewarded for my frustrations or even any of my setbacks since King of Elite. All I did was keep fighting, and now my next Championship defense is supposed to be against a man that isn’t even able to stand on his own two feet anymore? Is this really what you’re doing right now?

(The cheers grow louder as Myles stops speaking. After just a few seconds, Methuselah begins to give him an answer.)

Methuselah: There’s no need to worry, Myles. Drake’s never been able to stand on his own two feet anyway! There’s always been the Round Table, then there was the Visual Prophet, and of course New Eden… It’s not like you’re at a disadvantage. You know Drake better than anyone, this match should be good for you!

Drake King: :comeagain:

(Drake turns to Methuselah, clearly confused by what he just said.)

Drake King: Whose side are you on!?

Methuselah: Don’t you think everything I just said would be applied to you as well? You know Myles just as well, and you’ve beaten him before, haven’t you? :troll:

(Drake remains silent, but Myles is quick to speak up.)

Myles: You know what? I’m not going to keep arguing about this. I know just as well as the two of you that this conversation will only end one way, so we might as well just stop wasting time. If this is what it’s come down to, let’s do it. Face me at Fighting Spirit.

(Drake takes a few seconds, before finally turning towards Myles.)

Drake King: I’ll do it. If I couldn’t take the Grand Rampage match away, I’ll just have to cut your Championship reign short.

(This gets a mixed reaction, the cheers coming from those excited to see this match and the boos from those that are unhappy about Drake receiving a Championship match.)

Myles: We’ll see about that. I plan to have a worthwhile Championship defense at Fighting Spirit one way or another, and neither of you will take that away from me. I’m walking into Pain for Pride as Champion, and there’s nothing either of you will be able to do about it.

(Myles drops his microphone before beginning to leave the ring, and as the fans cheer him on, ‘Enemy Strike’ begins to play once again. Drake and Methuselah remain inside of the ring, staring directly at the EAW World Champion.)

James Peters: Well, it looks like we already have a Championship match confirmed for Fighting Spirit! Myles has agreed to defend his EAW World Championship against Drake King in a match that we all know very well will steal the show!

Rich Russillo: This really isn’t how I expected things to go when Drake first walked out. Now I can’t help but think about how Fighting Spirit is going to go! These two have had multiple matches and they both have some big wins against each other, so this could really end either way!

Persephone: I definitely can’t wait for another match between them. Soooo looking forward to it…

(Myles walks up the ramp with his EAW World Championship on his shoulder, the fans continuing to cheer for him. There is one last shot of Drake and Methuselah inside of the ring, and from there Voltage begins to fade away from ringside and into a commercial break.)

(Commercial for “Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey” featuring Jon Kelton.)

(The camera cuts to Bella Braxton in the ring.)

Bella Braxton: The following contest is scheduled for one fall!

Crowd: ONE FALL!!!

( Track 11 : 狂気の蛇眼 (Snake Eyes Of Madness) hits to boos from the crowd. James Ranger would begin walking out to the stage. He has a focused look on his face, beginning to make his way to the ring. It’s clear that he is ready for this match, staring only at the ring ahead of him.)

Bella Braxton: Introducing first from London, England weighing in at 243 pounds he is the “Black Mamba” JAMESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS RANGERRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!

Rich Russillo: James Ranger seems extra intense tonight. That is bad news for his opponent! He is dangerous even on a regular night! Rory Slate should definitely be careful.

James Peters: That’s true, but I think both Elitists should watch their backs here. You never know what may happen.

(‘The Rapture (but it’s pink)’ by Scene Queen & Mothica hits as the crowd boos even louder.)

Bella Braxton: And his opponent from Chicago, Illinois weighing in at 131 pounds she is “The Dark Saint” RORRRRRRRRRRRRRY SLATEEEEEEEEEEE!!!

(Rory Slate makes her way to the ring ignoring the negative reaction to the crowd. She just shakes her head, brushing off the boos as she walks towards the ring looking like she isn’t afraid of James whatsoever.)

Rich Russillo: Rory Slate doesn’t have much experience in EAW yet, but she could definitely leave an impact tonight by defeating James Ranger. Let’s see if she has what it takes!

(DING! DING! DING!)

Rich Russillo: We are underway as Rory Slate immediately charges in on James Ranger and kicks him in the gut! Rory is going in hard on James and battering him back in the Voltage ring. Rory manages to even take James down who quickly rolls under the bottom rope to the outside of the ring. James getting the hell out of there to avoid Rory as that might have been his smartest option. But Rory continues to punch and kick at James through the ropes grabbing at his skull but James manages to break free. The referee trying to restrain Rory as James grabs her legs from outside the ring! James yanks hard on the legs pulling Rory down to her back as she is yanked even further outside of the ring by James! James grabs Rory by the head and slams her skull into the barricade at ringside! James doing some real damage as he kicks Rory in the gut and then whips her across the outside back first into the ring apron! James grabs the head of Rory and bashes it into the ring apron for good measure! James whirls Rory around before tossing her back into the ring!

James Peters: James Ranger clearly having a strategic advantage here tonight as he puts all of that time off to good use against the young Rory Slate. Rory back up to her feet in the ring as James slides back in. But James is a little bit too slow returning to the ring and gets taken out with a running forearm strike from Rory! Rory knocks James down to the mat before driving a knee down hard into the back of the skull. Hard forearms to the skull now from Rory as she climbs on top of James and begins pounding away. Rory trying to do as much damage to the skull of James as possible to turn the lights out here early in this match. James manages to eventually shove Rory away before retreating to the corner and pulling himself back up. But Rory is right back up on him with a running uppercut right to the gut of James causing him severe pain! She grabs the head of James and pulls him out into the ring. Full speed ahead!

Rich Russillo: Rory Slate charges into the corner running James Ranger’s head at full speed into the top turnbuckle padding in the corner! Hard blow from Ranger who nearly collapses but Rory follows it up with repeated Shoulder Thrusts to the midsection!! Rory is going off and James appears to be unable to mount much of an offense against this onslaught! Impressive to see Rory mounting such an aggressive offense given the size differences but clearly you should not count someone out by their cover! Speaking of cover… Rory is going for one right now!

Referee: ONEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!

Referee: TWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!

James Peters: Kickout by James Ranger! Ranger back up in the corner as Rory Slate charges in with a Running Shoulder Thrust! But Ranger withstands it and kicks Rory hard in the skull! Rory staggers back as James grabs the arm of Rory and whips her off into the corner! James with a close range Running Clothesline smashing into Rory in the corner! Rory manages to stay on her feet and stumbles off into the opposite corner with James in pursuit! Big time attack from James as he yanks Rory into the ring and whips her across… Back Body Drop! No! Rory kicks the head of James and stops just in time! Rory falls back into the ropes and uses the momentum to charge forward… Flying Burrito takes down James with all of the strength that Rory can muster!!

Persephone: Great move! But why is she not going for a cover?!?

Rich Russillo: Rory Slate considered a cover but opting instead to stomp away on James Ranger on the ground to do further damage! James eventually manages to pull himself back up but Rory with a Snapmare Takedown! James taken down into a seated position as Rory runs the ropes… Running Kick to the back of the spine of James from Rory! Hard knee to the back of the head from Rory who then applies a headlock! James quickly struggles out of it but Rory grabs the arm instead trapping him down into a seated Armbar! James now is in a bad way! Rory yanking the arm of James right out the socket like a sadistic madwoman! No! James manages to lean over and grasp his other hand around the bottom rope! The hold has been broken! But Rory now refusing to release!

Referee: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR! FIVE!

James Peters: Rory Slate lets go at the count of five to avoid disqualification!

Persephone: I am sure that would have happened immediately after the five had been reached.

James Peters: James Ranger pulls himself using the ropes but Rory Slate suddenly shoves past the referee and climbs on top of his back! Rory holding James down throat first over the middle rope! The referee now physically trying to pull Rory off James but she breaks free and continues to deliver hard elbows down atop the back of Rory until she eventually relents and backs off! James choking and coughing as he rolls down into the ring. Rory goes to pick him up an-

Rich Russillo: Jawbreaker out of nowhere from James Ranger! He catches Rory Slate as she tries to pull him up and causes severe damage before quickly rolling out of the ring to get away! Rory staggers back as James makes his way back into the ring! He runs up on her with a Running Hip Attack sending her sprawling across the ring falling to the mat in the fetal position. Big rush there from James as Rory pulls herself back up in the corner… James runs in… RUNNING SPLASH INTO THE CORNER! Rory collapses in the corner from the impact and tries to escape under the bottom rope but James pins her head down on the apron with his boot! But she manages to wriggle free to the outside! James chasing Rory to the outside and grabs her hair and slams her face first into the steel steps! James tosses Rory like a ragdoll halfway the length of the ring on the outside!

James Peters: The mood has begun to change as James Ranger tosses Rory Slate back first into the ring steps! But Rory stops herself from running into the steps using a hand to stop herself! But James stomps on top of the stairs crushing Rory’s hand between the steps! Damn that had to hurt! Looked real painful for real! James grabs Rory and whips her back first into the barricade at ringside! They are getting really close to being counted out as the brawl outside the ring continues on!

Persephone: Oh no! It would be a shame if the referee actually did their job for once!

Referee: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR! FIVE! SIX!

Rich Russillo: James Ranger tosses Rory Slate back into the ring and delivers a Standing Elbow to the chest of his opponent! Rory taking a lot of damage there as she rolls further into the ring with James strolling up to her in casual pursuit. James tosses Rory into the corner… but she fires out with a desperate flurry of strikes! BIG BOOT TO THE FACE FROM JAMES!!! James putting a quick end to Rory’s brief comeback! Rory staggers back up to her feet into the corner… James runs in with a Running Shoulder Thrust!-

James Peters: Rory Slate moves out of the way! She jumps up over James Ranger with a Sunset Flip into a pin!!! Rory looking to take this match right here and now!

Referee: ONEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!

Referee: TWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!

Referee: THREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE-

Rich Russillo: Kickout from James Ranger! James kicks out with authority sending Rory Slate flying across the ring. She gets back up and meets him in the ring as they collide with strikes! Rory! James! Rory! James! James! James!

James Peters: James Ranger quickly taking control battering Rory Slate back into the corner and she may not have much left to give here as he beats her down and then stomps a mudhole into her for good measure!

Rich Russillo: James Ranger charges in at Rory Slate after whipping her into the opposite corner! Rory with a Leg Sweep! James goes face first into the middle turnbuckle padding! Rory with a brief moment to recover now! Both competitors down now in the ring as they have given it all they have here tonight! The match has not been very long but the action has certainly been fierce!!!

James Peters: Rory Slate and James Ranger now slowly back up as they meet each other in the ring once more! Hard back chop to the chest from Rory but James fires back with a Forearm to the face sending Rory into the ropes! She rebounds an-

Rich Russillo: FINAL EXECUTION!!! JAMES RANGER OUT OF NOWHERE WITH THE AX KICK! JAMES TO THE COVERRRR!!

Referee: ONEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!

Referee: TWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!

Referee: THREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE-

Persephone: :lupe:

Referee: EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!

(DING! DING! DING!)

Bella Braxton: Here is your winner… JAMESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS RRRRRRRRRRRRRRANGERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!!

( Track 11 : 狂気の蛇眼 (Snake Eyes Of Madness) hits to boos from the crowd as James Ranger returns to his feet. He has his arm raised in victory, and afterwards climbs onto the middle rope to celebrate his win.)

James Peters: James Ranger picks up the win, but it definitely didn’t seem easy! It’s clear that Rory put up a fight, but in the end James gets the job done!

Rich Russillo: There is no telling what these two do next, but they can both definitely move forward and reach greater heights after tonight. Congratulations to James Ranger!

(Voltage fades away from ringside as James celebrates his win.)

(The camera cuts backstage to Captain Charisma, prompting a loud reaction from fans, always happy to see the commissioner, who is leaning back on his desk while texting. The camera zooms out, and to his right stands Miku Sakai, causing the crowd reaction to go from cheers to jeers rather quickly. She is wearing her ring gear ahead of her match later on tonight, but is obviously growing restless with Captain Charisma, rolling her eyes from boredom. Soon, Miku can’t take it anymore, and starts to speak up.)

Miku Sakai: Excuse me. Did you call me in here for something of relevance, or to stand here? Because so far, all I’ve done is the latter, and I prefer having some time to prepare for my match, which you booked later on tonight. So, if all I’m here to do is stand here, and look pretty, I prefer to leave.

(Captain Charisma forms an annoyed smirk on his face, given Miku’s attitude, and lack of patience, but puts his phone away, and makes eye contact with her.)

Captain Charisma: I apologize, Miku. First of all, thank you for coming.

(Captain Charisma extends his hand to Sakai, but she puts her hand up, signaling for him to stop, not interested in shaking hands with him, which is evident by the slightly disgusted look on her face.)

Miku Sakai: I would, but I left my disinfectant in another room, so let’s skip handshakes for now. Please explain to me why you’ve been typing on that phone for two minutes straight, as if I haven’t been here the entire time.

Captain Charisma: Once again, I apologize, but I was busy making arrangements with your other opponents at Fighting Spirit.

Miku Sakai: Other opponents?

Captain Charisma: Yes, each one of them should be on their way to my office right-

(A knock can be heard at Captain Charisma’s door, interrupting his speech.)

Captain Charisma: Now. Come in!

(Mercer McKay marches in the office, and stands on Captain Charisma’s left while staring down Miku Sakai, who remains on his right. Mercer receives a positive reaction from fans, who are excited as the Fighting Spirit match heats up, having a second competitor in it revealed. Mercer hasn’t taken his eyes off Miku, who stares him up and down, taken aback by his size, but her confidence doesn’t falter, especially knowing that a fight won’t break out here, given that it is Captain Charisma’s office.)

Captain Charisma: Miku, allow me to introduce one of your opponents at Fighting Spirit… Mercer McKay.

(Captain Charisma extends a hand to Mercer McKay, who quickly shakes it, but turns his head back to face Miku Sakai.)

Captain Charisma: Mercer, I’ll tell you the same thing I told Miku, and that’s thank you for coming. Your presence is greatly appreciated as I set the table for Fighting Spirit. You are new to the land of Elite, but you’re no stranger to competing in matches, which have opportunities on the line, something you did back at King of Elite. Unfortunately, you came up short there, but have an opportunity to right the wrong, and I expect you too. Similar to everyone else in this match, I think you have a strong chance of winning, and part of that comes from you being an absolute juggernaut in the ring, who is ready to run through people left and right. Now, are you aware as to how you earned entry in this match?

Mercer McKay: I’ve got a hunch.

Captain Charisma: If said hunch involves your performance at Grand Rampage, you’d be right. You impressed a lot of people, including myself. Honestly, keep up the great work, BUT! I’m asking that you don’t forget our conversation from before. You’re talented, that I cannot deny, but I’m asking that you keep your vicious, and violent nature to a minimum. Because while this isn’t a scaffold match, this is a ladder match, which can shorten careers. So, with that said, I’m asking that you keep your violence to a minimum, and focus on what matters, okay? That’s securing yourself a spot at Pain for Pride. I mean, think about it. Mercer McKay in Cash in the Vault. Do you know what that match has done for people? It’s taken careers, and launched them into the stratosphere, especially for those who win. All I’m asking is that you keep your head in the game, and realize what’s important.

(Mercer McKay chuckles to himself, shrugging off what Captain Charisma had to say.)

Mercer McKay: Trust me, my mind is on winning, but inflicting damage will be a bonus, and if somebody does wind up like Trisha Edwardson, bones broken, career ended, that’s their fault for getting in my way. In fact, Captain, maybe it’s your fault for putting me in the match in the first place, knowing what I’m capable of, knowing what I’m willing, and all too eager to do.

Captain Charisma: Mercer-

Mercer McKay: Mercer, nothing. I told you last time, no one can control me, no not even you.

Miku Sakai: Here I am, finding myself bored AGAIN. Save the tough guy act for someone who cares, because I don’t, and would rather be elsewhere than listen to you ramble on-

Mercer McKay: Keep talking, and you’ll be the next victim like Trisha.

Miku Sakai: I don’t even know who that is.

Captain Charisma: Guys, save it for Fighting Spirit. Mercer, I know you listen to no one, but listen to reason, you have a match later tonight.

(Another knock can be heard at Captain Charisma’s door, giving Captain Charisma some relief as things were heating up slightly between Mercer and Miku.)

Captain Charisma: Perfect timing, must be the third competitor in your match. Come in! Mercer, and Miku, I introduce to you…

(Mercer turns around, and slowly backpedals next to Miku, giving space for Daryl Kinkade to enter to Captain Charisma’s right, wearing a suit, but noticeably a bit bummed after his match against Myles didn’t end the way he wanted. Fans cheer Daryl once he enters the frame, and he forms a weak smile at this reaction before shaking hands with the commissioner.)

Captain Charisma: Daryl Kinkade!

Daryl Kinkade: Captain Charisma! Thank you for the opportunity.

Captain Charisma: The pleasure is all mine, you earned it after your match against Myles.

Daryl Kinkade: Yeah… shame I couldn’t walk away with the title though.

Captain Charisma: Look, man, for most people, winning the World Title doesn’t come easy. You can fail multiple times, but that doesn’t mean it won’t happen. Besides, if you win your match at Fighting Spirit, and follow that up with a win at Pain for Pride, you’ll have earned yourself another title match.

(Daryl’s mood perks up a bit at hearing this.)

Daryl Kinkade: The best of both worlds. You know I’ve been looking for an opportunity to prove myself as a real contender for the title, and after winning two ladder matches straight, who can doubt my credentials then?

Captain Charisma: Valid point. But there are differences between your match at Fighting Spirit versus Cash in the Vault. To put it simply, it won’t be easy to win at Fighting Spirit, despite having two briefcases suspended above the air as opposed to one, you’re still dealing with three other hungry competitors, each wanting to punch their ticket to Pain for Pride.

Miku Sakai: Speak for yourself. My ticket is already punched, might as well print my name on there.

Mercer McKay: From having to deal with one arrogant prick this week to another at Fighting Spirit… great.

Captain Charisma: I imagine you’re referring to Ronan Malosi, your opponent for tonight. Well, about that… all of you have strong cases for being in the match at Fighting Spirit-

(Without knocking, someone walks in the office off screen, prompting groans and eye rolls from the Fighting Spirit competitors, which is directed toward Ronan Malosi, who gets thunderous boos from the audience as he enters the frame, positioning himself next to Daryl Kinkade, and standing across from Mercer on the opposite side to Captain Charisma. Malosi barely pays anyone else attention as he’s talking on the phone. Ronan is wearing his entrance gear with his ring jacket unzipped. Captain Charisma visibly isn’t as enthusiastic with this competitor as he was with the others.)

Captain Charisma: …and then there’s this guy.

(Captain Charisma extends his hand to Ronan for a handshake, but Ronan doesn’t see it as he begins laughing hysterically at something told over the phone. After a while of obnoxious laughter, which bugs everybody in the room, Ronan manages to reel himself in.)

Ronan Malosi: Sorry, Captain, but Roald just told this hilarious joke over the phone! I’d repeat it, but… you wouldn’t get it. :mjlol: Neither would anybody else here, between you and I…

(Ronan calls himself whispering to Captain Charisma, but everyone in the room can hear him.)

Ronan Malosi: Their IQs aren’t high enough to grasp our highbrow humor.

Miku Sakai: Funny coming from the biggest joke in EAW.

Mercer McKay: For once, I agree with what she’s saying.

Daryl Kinkade: Same.

(Ronan laughs them off, and continues talking to Roald over the phone, running his mouth about everyone in the room.)

Captain Charisma: Uh, Ronan, maybe it’s time to put the phone away, so we can discuss business.

Ronan Malosi: Yeah, one sec-

Captain Charisma: Now, please.

Ronan Malosi: Fine. Roald, I’ll have to call you back.

(Ronan hangs up on the phone, and gets serious, slightly annoyed after having his phone call ended prematurely.)

Captain Charisma: Ladies and gentlemen, your fourth and final opponent at Fighting Spirit… Ron-

Ronan Malosi: Allow me. Amaya isn’t here, but I play a fine substitute.

(Ronan clears his throat.)

Ronan Malosi: Your fourth and final opponent, meaning: Captain Charisma saved the best for last. He is a Million Dollar Megastar, The International Treasure, The Essence of Excellence, South Africa’s Favorite Son, The Number One Stunna, and the Marquee… RONAN MALOSI! :mjgrin: Did I mention the guy who’ll be embarrassing each one of you?

Captain Charisma: Well first of all, you aren’t the fourth and final member of the match. There will be more people added to this…

Ronan Malosi: :comeagain: Excuse me??

Miku Sakai: Okay whatever. More people. Big deal. Ok, pushing past that, how are you even in the match, Ronan? I forgot you were a member of the roster until now.

Ronan Malosi: Very funny, but I could ask the same question to you. Didn’t Hikari kick your ass at Tempest? And Daryl Kinkade… I said you stood no chance ahead of Grand Rampage, and guess what? I was right, you stood no chance, and had no reason being there. Should’ve stepped aside, and gave that title shot to someone who can actually beat Myles… me.

Daryl Kinkade: That’s rich coming from someone who couldn’t beat me.

(Ronan looks toward Miku and Mercer.)

Ronan Malosi: You guys saw it, right? He cheated or something.

Mercer McKay: The excuses never end with you, huh?

Ronan Malosi: Excuses are for losers, something I won’t be after tonight. Because with everyone asking why I’m in this match, take me beating this idiot as proof why.

(Mercer steps to Ronan Malosi, who backs away slightly.)

Ronan Malosi: Whoa, save it for the ri-

James Peters: OOH! MALOSI JUST CAUGHT MERCER WITH A FOREARM, AND KEEPS HAMMERING INTO HIM WITH BLOWS!

Rich Russillo: WHAT HAPPENED TO SAVE IT FOR THE RING?!

James Peters: CLEARLY, THAT WAS A PLOY FOR MALOSI TO SUCKER PUNCH! CAPTAIN CHARISMA IS DOING HIS BEST TO REGAIN ORDER!

Captain Charisma: GUYS! BREAK IT UP! …BREAK IT UP! …SECURITY!

(Realizing that his demands aren’t resonating with either man, and given both Malosi and Mercer’s stature, Captain Charisma runs off to get security while Malosi and Mercer keep brawling. Daryl and Miku watch from a distance, not willing to get involved.)

James Peters: UH OH! MALOSI IS TRYING TO SUPLEX MERCER THROUGH CAPTAIN CHARISMA’S DESK, BUT CANT GET HIM UP AS MERCER MCKAY BLOCKS IT, BUT LIFTS MALOSI UP WITH EASE!

Rich Russillo: RELEASE SUPLEX THROUGH CAPTAIN CHARISMA’S DESK!

Persephone: :mjlol:

James Peters: THESE GUYS HAVE A MATCH LATER TONIGHT! WHAT CONDITION WILL RONAN BE IN?!

(Mercer McKay is seething after slamming Ronan through the desk, and looks down as Malosi writhes in pain in the rubble. Captain Charisma walks back in his office with security, and is flabbergasted to see the fight ended with Ronan being put through his desk. Daryl and Miku both look like they’re shocked at what went down as well, looking on at a downed Ronan like “okay… great” as the show fades to a commercial break.)

(A commercial is shown for the NBA Playoffs, LIGHT THE BEAM!)

(The camera cuts to Bella Braxton in the ring.)

Bella Braxton: The following contest is scheduled for one fall!

Crowd: ONE FALL!!!

(Blackway & Black Caviar – “What’s Up Danger” hits to mixed reactions from the crowd.)

Bella Braxton: Introducing first from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma weighing in at 170 pounds he is “The Extreme” KORRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRREY GAINESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!

(Korey Gaines makes his way out to the ring looking cocky and showing off to the crowd. He does a backflip off the top rope to demonstrate his extreme highflying skills. He gives the crowd a smirk as he knows just how good he is regardless of if the fans acknowledge it or not.)

Rich Russillo: Well Korey Gaines is definitely one of the premier high flyers we have here on Voltage. Some of the fans may not approve of his attitude however!

Persephone: I don’t know what you mean Rich. I look forward to his social stream posts every morning!

(Physical by Shershen & Saristkaya hits to boos from the crowd.)

Bella Braxton: And his opponent from Anaheim, California weighing in at 152 pounds she is “The Ultra-Star” MADISONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN HANSENNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!!!!

(Madison Hansen makes her entrance down the ramp with a very confident look on her face. Madison is taking her time, not in any rush to enter the ring as in her mind she already had the match won. Korey Gaines waits inside of the ring, annoyed as Madison has a smirk on her face.)

James Peters: Madison Hansen is one of the newcomers here on Voltage, and right now we’ll see just what she can do against an Elitist like Korey Gaines, who has the experience advantage.)

Rich Russillo: This will definitely be an interesting match, so let’s not waste any time and get right to it!

(DING! DING! DING!)

Rich Russillo: We are underway and this match is off to an explosive start as Korey Gaines and Madison Hansen immediately clash in the ring. Korey reaching out and grabbing him some of Madison with both hands! No! Madison ducks beneath and runs the ropes. She comes back around… Korey grabs her and whirls her around! But she counters and slips down behind Korey! She shoves him forward sending him shoulder first into the turnbuckle post! Korey crashes into the raw steel before crumbling over the middle rope and falling to the outside of the ring! Madison enjoying her victory as Korey may be counted out in this match before it even really gets going! Madison is not going to allow it to end that way though as she climbs out of the ring and breaks Korey back in. Korey’s neck under the bottom rope and she pulls him back up with a Guillotine using the bottom rope to nearly decapitate Korey right there! Madison slides into the first cover of the match!

Referee: ONEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE-

James Peters: Quick kickout by Korey Gaines who has much left in the tank despite being taken off guard in the early goings of this contest. Korey is helped back up to his feet by Madison who grabs him by the hair and pulls him in… Madison looking for a Powerbomb here! But Korey falls backwards yanking the tights of Madison and sending her flying up in the air! Madison goes over the top rope and lands back first on the apron before bouncing down to the floor! Korey just sent that woman flying! Madison on hands and knees on the outside as Korey recovers on the inside holding his throat in pain. Madison manages to make it up to her feet before Korey despite the painful looking bump that she took on the hardest part of the ring. Madison stalks Korey and whirls him around throwing him shoulder first into the turnbuckle once more!

Rich Russillo: No! This time Korey Gaines grabbed the ropes to stop himself from going into the turnbuckle! Just in the knick of time! Hard elbow to the gut from Gaines… but Madison with a hammering blow onto the back of Korey! Madison grabs Korey and is going to throw him into the turnbuckle again! But he hangs on again! And hits yet another shot to the gut! And another! Korey battering Madison back as he swings those fists looking to escape the corner once and for all! Madison manages to grab him and whirls him around but Korey uses the momentum to throw Madison into the corner shoulder first instead. Korey manages the reversal and Madison is now in a bad way! Can Korey capitalize? He grabs Madison from behind pulling her away from the pole before pulling her up and hitting a Standing Suplex before sliding into the cover!

Referee: ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN-

James Peters: Quick kickout by Madison Hansen! Korey Gaines is shoved off Madison as both competitors are back up and trade chops to the chest in the ring. Looks like Korey is able to keep the advantage chopping Madison backwards into the corner. But Madison shoves Korey backwards further into the ring as he separates from her and gets into a wrestling stance. Madison meets Korey in the ring looking to lock up! It is almost as if this match has restarted from the beginning! A fresh start for both competitors!

Persephone: James. Don’t say things like that. Never again.

Rich Russillo: Korey Gaines and Madison Hansen are circling each other now in the middle of the ring before they eventually lock up. No! Korey with a cheap shot! Korey kicks Madison right in the gut and fires off hard blows to the back of his opponent! Madison is in a bad way here… but now she is fighting back! Madison fires back with repeated shots to the gut battering Korey backwards into the corner! Korey on the defensive now taking all kinds of punishment from Madison as she kicks him back into the corner! But Korey shoves her away before grabbing her by the neck and tosses her back first into the corner! Korey with a swinging haymaker to the face of Madison! But she ducks beneath! Madison now lighting up Korey with further kicks to the gut planting him in the corner! Madison on fire as she stomps a mudhole in him an-

James Peters: Thumb to the eye from Korey Gaines! A cheap shot there from Korey as Madison collapses and he kicks her hard in the gut and pounds on her back until she collapses down to the mat! The referee didn’t see it! Korey yanks Madison up by the hair and grabs her by the arm. He yanks her back… Ripcord Lariat!!! No! Madison ducks it! Madison with a Thesz Press leaping up onto Korey tackling him down to the mat and she just begins to fire away with rapid fire punches to the face of Korey! Korey is trapped and taking punishment here now as he eventually tosses Madison off of him! But Madison lunges onto him and begins to punch at the face of Korey! Madison is going to any lengths to destroy her opponent here tonight!

Rich Russillo: Korey Gaines shoves Madison Hansen away from him as she runs off the ropes and back towards him. But Korey catches Madison and side steps her and sends her flying over the top rope to the outside! Madison rolls over the top ropes to the apron and lands on her feet on the outside! Korey with a moment to check his face and it looks like everything is still there. Korey in pursuit of Madison on the outside as he slams her face first into the ring apron. Korey lifts Madison up to send her back into the ring! No! Madison falls down behind Korey and shoves him forward! Korey is sent running knees first into the steel steps and collapses up on top of them.

Persephone: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR! FIVE! SIX! SEVEN! EIGHT! NINE! TEN!

Persephone: DING! DING! DING!

James Peters: No! Madison Hansen quickly rolls back into the ring to break the referee’s count before resuming her attack on Korey Gaines on the outside!

Persephone: :mjcry: !!!

Rich Russillo: Madison Hansen grabs Korey Gaines but he immediately battles back with hard shots to the gut. Rake of the eyes of Korey to Madison staggering her back as Korey this time rolls back into the ring to break the count before grabbing Madison and driving her spine first into the apron! The hardest part of the ring! Korey tosses Madison back into the ring as she staggers back to her feet holding her back and spine in severe pain. Korey stalking her… but Madison with a Sliding Baseball Kick to the leg of Korey taking his legs out from under him! Korey collapses to the mat in pain holding his ankle! Smart and quick thinking there by Madison! Both competitors back up as Madison off the ropes with a Running Chop Block to the leg of Korey taking him down! Madison grabs the ankle of Korey and transitions into a brutal Ankle Lock! The Ankle Lock has been applied and Korey may have no choice but to tap out up here and now! Korey is straining and reaching out to the ropes! Can he make it? He reaches out!!!-

James Peters: But Madison Hansen yanks the leg back pulling Korey Gaines back further into the ring! But Korey uses the movement to throw himself forward in an attempted somersault! He manages to use his size as Madison holds onto his ankle to throw her forward! Madison goes flying face first into the corner as Korey has managed to successfully free himself! Madison in pain as Korey back up and comes running in! But his ankle gives out and he trips allowing Madison a chance to recover! She moves out of the way as Korey falls face first into the middle turnbuckle. Madison runs and lunges from behind with a Running Knee to the back of Korey further pressing him into the corner!

Rich Russillo: Madison Hansen is beating on Korey Gaines in the corner now until the referee forces her off and checks on Korey. Korey manages to pull himself out of the corner but Madison grabs his arm and yanks it over the middle rope trying to dislocate his shoulder! The referee getting involved to pull her off him as Korey stands back up. But Madison charges in with a Running Boot to the head of Korey who goes down! The cover!!

Referee: ONEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Referee: TWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!

James Peters: Kickout by Korey Gaines! Madison Hansen goes to pull Korey back up but he fights back with a couple feeble shots that don’t do much to stop Madison’s assault! Madison grabs the arm of Korey and painfully yanks him back up to his feet. His ankle is still in pain as Madison continues to focus on the arm as well!

Persephone: He might not have any limbs left by the time she is done with him! LMAO!

Rich Russillo: Did you just spell out “L-M-A-O”? Nevermind. Focusing on the match at hand… Korey Gains tries to battle back with a forearm to the face of Madison Hansen who staggers back but keeps hold of his arm! She twists the arm causing him pain as Korey eventually manages to twist free… But Madison with a Running Pump Kick to the gut as Korey collapses down on hands and knees. Madison right back on him grabbing the arm and drags him down into a Cross Armbreaker in the middle of the ring! Korey needs to tap before he has his arm completely broken and his career ended!

James Peters: But Korey Gaines will not give up as has been the case his entire career! Even as Madison Hansen repositions herself on top of him to add extra pressure to the arm Korey will not say quit! Korey refusing to tap as he tries to maneuver himself around to either reach the ropes or find a way to strike back at Madison!

Rich Russillo: Korey Gaines manages to twist over onto his side! He begins delivering hard back elbows to the head of Madison Hansen until she is forced to break the hold and release his arm once more! Korey managing to fight his way back up as he strikes back at Madison with a second wind surprising even her! Korey able to stand firm on his hurt ankle fighting back through the pain as he throws shot after shot desperately fighting Madison back! Madison thrown back into the corner as she charges in but Korey manages to counter her attempt to grab his arm! Korey tosses Madison backwards with a swift Arm Drag! Madison rolls back up to her feet and charges in at Korey who takes her down with a Flapjack! Madison goes face first into the ring as Korey gets one hand up and over her for that cover of covers! This could be his last chance to win this whole thing!!!

Referee: ONEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Referee: TWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!

James Peters: NO! Madison manages to kick out at two! Korey Gaines cannot even begin to process this!

Persephone: I understand. It can be a very difficult thing to process sometimes. Understanding why the match has not ended is one of life’s greatest mysteries.

Rich Russillo: Both competitors now slowly back up to their feet as they slug it out! Madison Hansen with a series of hard forearms sending Korey Gaines on wobbly legs back up against the ropes. Korey fires back charging in swiftly with a possibly inadvertent headbutt smashing into the forehead of Madison! Madison bounces backwards off the ropes right into the arms of Korey… Korey shoves her away!!!

James Peters: SUPERKICK TO THE FACE CONNECTS!!! Madison falls backwards against the ropes..

Rich Russillo: AND MADISON RESPONDS WITH MEET THE HEELS!! THE DISCUS BIG BOOT CONNECTS, AND MADISON FOLLOWS IT UP WITH THE RUNWAY!!!! MADISON WITH THE COVER!!!!

Referee: ONEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Referee: TWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!

Referee: THREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!

(DING! DING! DING!)

Bella Braxton: Here is your winner… MMMAAAAAAAADDDIIISSSONNNNN HHHAANNNNSSSEENNNNN!!!!!!

Rich Russillo: What a hard fought win for Madison there!!!

James Peters: Korey Gaines really put up a fight, but in the end newcomer Madison Hansen was really able to make an impact, picking up a win here tonight against Korey!

Rich Russillo: This could definitely lead to some great things for Madison as long as she is able to keep up this momentum. Congratulations, Madison!

Persephone: Yes congrats, good match, blah blah blah time to move on!

(“Physical” hits, and Madison rolls off of Korey before returning to her feet. Madison has a smirk on her face after picking up the win, and the referee raises her hand. As Madison Hansen celebrates her victory, Voltage fades away from ringside.)

(The camera cuts to a commercial for the Rampage held by a local indy promotion. This one is just a Rampage because it isn’t very grand.)

(Voltage fades back in from break.)

(‘Trepanation’ by Millennium Parade plays as the Hardcore Champion Hikari Kanno comes out met with a mix of cheers and boos from the crowd. She unstraps the title from her waists and brings it into her hands, holding it up high while walking down the ramp and to the ring.)

Bella Braxton: Ladies and gentlemen please welcome the reigning EAW Hardcore Champion….HIKARI KANNOOOO!!!!

Rich Russillo: The last time we saw Hikari Kanno was the week before Grand Rampage, where she addressed her next challenger for the Hardcore Championship, who was Ayu Megumi. It wasn’t received well by the Champion, but Ayu made sure that her voice was heard, as she laid out Hikari and stood tall over her before officials split them up.

James Peters: We of course saw Ayu in the Grand Rampage match the following week, where she had an excellent performance but ended up getting eliminated along with Usagi Senshi by Bronson Daniels. It certainly has to be a bummer for her, but she looks forward to what really matters and Hikari looks to give her a reminder of that tonight.

Persephone: Oh c’mon, did we really expect Ayu to actually have a semi-decent showing in that match? Better yet, what makes you think that she’s going to follow that up and somehow have any sort of chance with the Hardcore Championship? It’s not like Hikari is any good herself, but let’s be for real right now, guys.

(Hikari enters the ring and poses with her title once more before her music dies down, and she adjusts the Hardcore title on her shoulder and brings the microphone to her lips.)

Hikari Kanno: You know what time it is.

(Hikari points at the Pain for Pride sign.)

Hikari Kanno: It’s Pain for Pride season and you better believe I’ve got my eyes on that and making the biggest impact possible. In order for me to do that though I told anybody who dared try and step up to take this championship away from me that they actually know what they’re getting into because I simply just don’t want to waste my time. And who of all people is the first to step up to the plate? Ayu Megumi, the third most important member of her own group. I get it though, she wants to prove she can make it as a singles wrestler after being an anchor in her tag team but she picked the wrong target in trying to accomplish that mission. When I first won this championship I made a vow to have this reign mean something and take the Hardcore division to heights it hasn’t been to in a long time ever since the Disney merger happened, and the most important vow is that it’s going to be three times as hard to get this title off of me as it was when I first won it. I made all the vows and I promise that I’m not going to let Ayu be the one who rips it all away from me when all those goals are within reach especially with Pain for Pride around the corner.

Hikari Kanno: Ayu, before she attacked me for telling the truth, told me to keep a close eye on her while she was in the Grand Rampage match, and you know I did just that. And as you can tell, I’m not impressed in the slightest. I can clearly tell that Ayu tried her best when in it, but that’s really the only good thing I can take out of it. She tried her best and she got as far as she could have realistically hoped to and that doesn’t get you anything other than a pointless participation trophy. At the end of the day, she just didn’t belong in the ring with as much talent she was in there with and it’s going to be no different when she steps into the ring with me. Speaking of that, it’s now time for Ayu to turn her full attention to me and I can promise you that Ayu is going to suffer another setback and yet another significant loss. I’ve already made it clear several times that I have no plans on losing this title and thanks to me, this title will be as prestigious as it’s ever been before. And you know what, I’m not even sure if there’s even any point in hoping Ayu puts up a fight –

(Hikari is interrupted with ‘LIKE IT! LOVE IT!’ by Setsuna Yuki as the crowd gives a roaring ovation for Ayu Megumi who clearly isn’t pleased, making a beeline for the ring. Hikari looks as if she was expecting Ayu to come out at that exact moment. Ayu immediately gets in the face of Hikari Kanno before slowly putting the microphone up to her lips.)

Ayu Megumi: You shouldn’t be worrying if I’ll give you a fight, you should be worrying about your path to Pain for Pride after I take that Hardcore Championship!

Hikari Kanno: I like the fire Ayu, but be real with yourself. Look at all I’ve accomplished both as a tag team wrestler and as a singles competitor compared to yourself, you are not on my level. It’s evident you’ve tried to replicate that success, but you haven’t exactly hit the mark in that regard. You’re not going to just step up randomly to one of the most dominant women in professional wrestling and think you’re going to take her down, it’s just not happening.

Ayu Megumi: You just keep going on with that arrogance, it’s all just fuel to the fire. You need to get something through your head Hikari, I heard your demand for a hungry challenger worthy of your time and even though you may not believe it, that’s what you’re getting. I didn’t challenge you just to put up a great fight that I can use in the future, I challenged you because I know I can best you and deep down even though you refuse to admit it, you do too.

(Hikari scoffs at that last statement.)

Ayu Megumi: Eyes on me! Throwing Grand Rampage in my face is nothing relevant in our story other than you trying to get under my skin with cheap tactics much like how you did when attacking my relationship. While I know Grand Rampage didn’t go my way, I was able to learn from it and being in the ring with all those great competitors didn’t strike any fear in me, but sparked just a little more confidence in me that I can be the one who dethrones you. You losing your title to me and getting your entire universe flipped upside down isn’t some headline in a parallel universe like you’re treating it, but a reality that you are soon going to have no choice but to accept.

Hikari Kanno: Again, I seriously doubt that Ayu.

Ayu Megumi: Even after I left you lying unconscious a few weeks back the first time you decided to disrespect me in the slightest?

Hikari Kanno: Oh that’s right, are you talking about the time you cheap shot me right before that? And for what? For telling you the truth that you needed to hear for a long time now that you’re just the third wheel of the Ice Aces and that Usagi enjoyed throwing you over the top rope so much that she might wanna do it again personally?

Ayu Megumi: Hikari, you attack my relationship much like people have in our past, you will meet the same fate as them which is pain. Throwing shade at my professional career is one thing but there was no reason to bring that stuff up and I reacted out of instinct so if I were you, I would keep that mouth shut. And let me also be clear to you right now that I don’t have to cheapshot you in order to get the upper hand on you, what happened between us was literally nothing more than a sneak preview of what our title match is going to look like if you don’t take me as a serious threat.

Hikati Kanno: Ayu, you are a threat but not for the right reasons. I’ve seen you in the ring and you’ve got an insane amount of talent but at this point in your career you have a ceiling. You and I are going to have a great match but in the end, you’re not going to beat me because you’re simply not singles championship material and more importantly, not on my level.

Ayu Megumi: Come hell or high water, you are in for the fight of not only your title reign but your entire career. I don’t think you understand just how much this opportunity means to me and just how hard I’m willing to go in order to achieve it. I know what I signed up for and I know what I’m walking out with. I’m ready to take that next step, I’m ready to show I can succeed on my own, and I’m ready to become the new Hardcore Champion.

Hikari Kanno: Well Ayu if you’re so pumped up and ready to go, then what do you say we don’t delay this any longer? It’s quite obvious both of us are ready to fight so how about we make our date for the Hardcore Championship take place next week on the Disney Wish?

(The crowd pops for that idea.)

Ayu Megumi: Any time, any place, anywhere, I’m going to beat you and I’m going to hold that Hardcore Championship high above my head. You’re on!

Rich Russillo: WHOA!! Hikari versus Ayu next week for the Hardcore Championship!

Hikari Kanno: Good luck Ayu because you’re definitely going to need it.

Ayu Megumi: The only one who’s gonna need luck here is the one who is trying to pick up what’s left of her dignity after I’m done and take away her title, throwing a wrench into her Pain for Pride plans.

(Hikari and Ayu stare at each other for a moment or two.)

James Peters: OH!!! HIKARI POPS AYU RIGHT IN THE FACE WITH A FOREARM!! That looks like it caught Ayu off guard as Hikari now….HIKARI IS MEASURING UP AYU AS SHE STANDS UP – AND SHE RAMS THE HARDCORE TITLE INTO THE FACE OF AYU!!!

Hikari Kanno: (crouching down talking to Ayu) That’s the closest you’ll ever get to my title.

(‘Trepanation’ by Millennium Parade plays as Hikari raises her Hardcore title above the body of Ayu.)

Rich Russillo: Ayu got her a few weeks back, and Hikari struck back here tonight. We just got word though that it’s official, next week on the cruise ship, Hikari Kanno will defend the Hardcore Championship against Ayu Megumi and I can’t wait for that!

Persephone: But is that really the smartest strategy from Hikari? They still gotta team together tonight and she just laid out her partner. :wtf:

(The final shot is of Hikari posing with her Hardcore title up on the top of the ramp as a hurt Ayu points at her from in the ring before the camera fades into a commercial.)

(Commercial for the Super Mario movie, in theaters now.)

(Sunday Night Voltage fades back into the arena while ‘Rhapsody in Pink’ by Stela Cole (Clean Version) is heard playing in the background. The #DisneyBesties, Candice Blair, Halsey Neel, and Sierra Everett are seen taking their seats at the commentary table, putting headsets on while Rich Russillo and James Peters friendly greet them and Persephone looks at annoyance seeing the extra company that she has.)

Rich Russillo: Welcome back, and we’d like to take the #DisneyBesties for joining us here tonight, certainly glad to have your presence at the commentary table!

Candice Blair: Oh absolutely! 😌 After seeing what happened in Captain Charisma’s office earlier in the night, we wouldn’t miss it for the world!

Sierra Everett: Don’t we just love to see that idiot get embarrassed?

(Halsey has her arms crossed and doesn’t say anything.)

Persephone: Can we just move on already? Tight schedule!

(‘Rhapsody in Pink’ begins to fade out while the camera then goes over to Bella Braxton, who’s seen inside the ring with a microphone in her hand ready to announce the next match.)

Bella Braxton: The following singles contest is scheduled for ONE FALL!!!

Crowd: ONE FALL!!!

(‘Run’ by Zeal & Ardor is heard playing through the speakers of the arena while the crowd boos loudly for Mercer McKay who is seen marching out to the ring through a cloud of smoke. He has a serious expression on his face as he looks toward the ring, no nonsense and ready to go as he begins to make his way down the ramp.)

Bella Braxton: Introducing first… from The Black Cabin… weighing in at 283 pounds… ‘THE MASTODON’… MERCER MCKAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Candice Blair: Well this ray of sunshine certainly isn’t the role model that Sunday Night Voltage is looking for, but you have to admit that he has a killer instinct that might take him places given he makes the right decisions in the future.

Rich Russillo: Mercer McKay had a stellar performance in the Grand Rampage match last week, where he lasted quite a while, taking a significant chunk of the ring banding together and sending him over the top rope to get him out of the match to begin with. It’s not the result that he wanted, but it’s a start, and now he looks to get a victory under his belt in singles competition here tonight on Voltage.

Persephone: He’s the resident loser of this brand, and don’t feel bad because a lot of people fall under that umbrella. I don’t expect much out of him… or his opponent…

Halsey Neel: You said one thing I can agree with.

(Mo Money’ by Ben McLusky is then heard playing up with the crowd’s boos getting louder for the ever-so arrogant Ronan Malosi, who makes his way out to the stage. He’s unable to express himself completely right now considering the pain that he is apparently in thanks to Mercer McKay’s attack on him backstage, sending him through a table. He winces in pain occasionally but has his eyes set on the perpetrator, beginning to make his way to the ring. Before long his personal ring announcer begins to speak.)

Amaya: And his opponent… from Atlanta, Georgia… weighing in at 267 pounds… ‘THE INTERNATIONAL TREASURE’… RONAN MALOSI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sierra Everett: Oh c’mon, there is no way anyone is buying this injury act.

Persephone: He’s a sensitive wuss, it’s hard to believe he’s lying.

James Peters: Well regardless of how you may think of it, tonight has been rough for Ronan coming off of his vacation during Grand Rampage week. But right now he has the chance to redeem himself and get a win against Mercer McKay. That won’t come easy, but Ronan has pulled off plenty of surprises before in the past, and I certainly would not be surprised if he utilized his bag of tricks to the fullest extent tonight.

Candice Blair: Surprises are what you call it, cowardice is my way of phrasing it. We all remember everything he’s done, he’s not going to do it again if we have something to say about it… and I’m more than willing to return the favor to him.

Persephone: Guys if you want to interfere in this match please do it now so I don’t have to sit through it, thank you!

(DING! DING! DING!)

James Peters: And we’re off with the referee ringing the bell despite Ronan clearly not wanting him to.

Ronan Malosi: (off mic) I am in no condition to compete after what that animal did earlier!!

Sierra Everett: Not sure whining is going to get Ronan out of this much like it hasn’t in the past.

Rich Russillo: AND MERCER RUNS AND DELIVERS A SPLASH IN THE CORNER! Mercer looks to take Ronan out early as he picks him up…AND DELIVERS A RUNNING POWERSLAM!! AND THE FIRST COVER FROM MERCER!!

OOOOOONNNNNNEEEEEEE!!!!

TTTWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!!!

Rich Russillo: Ronan gets the shoulder up as he looks like he doesn’t have a clue on where he is at the moment, AND THEN MERCER RUNS OFF THE ROPES AND GOES JUMPS UP LOOKING TO DRIVE HIS BACK INTO RONAN’S RIBS…BUT NOBODY HOME AS RONAN MOVED AT THE LAST SECOND! Ronan looks as if he’s seen a ghost as he stands back up holding his back in some pain as he runs up to Mercer…AND HE BEGINS WAILING ON HIM THROWING SEVERAL RIGHT HAND PUNCHES, BUT NOT FOR LONG AS MERCER PUSHES HIM AWAY AND STANDS UP GOING FOR A BIG BOOT – BUT RONAN DUCKS BEFORE HITTING A CHOP BLOCK TO THE BACK OF THE KNEE! Ronan takes the big guys down as he runs off the ropes and drives his knees into the side of Mercer’s face before rolling out to the outside to catch his breath.

(Ronan begins taunting at the crowd to a chorus of boos before turning to the #DisneyBesties at the announce desk. All three of them stand and get in his face as he shows no intimidation.)

Halsey Neel: If I were you I’d get back in the ring and keep my focus on Mercer.

James Peters: Ronan after a few seconds tirns around and slides back into the ring AND MERCER WAS WAITING ON HIM AS RONAN WALKS RIGHT INTO A POPUP URANAGE SLAM FROM MERCER!!

Halsey Neel: I told him.

Candice Blair: Just the arrogance of this guy. The guy acts as if he’s a multi time champion when the reality of the fact is he’s the biggest laughing stock of the company and there’s just no saving him no matter how hard you try like we did.

Persephone: Mercer now looks to go back on the attack….AND MERCER WALKS OVER THE CHEST OF RONAN!! AND THEN MERCER DROPS AN ELBOW TO THE HEART OF RONAN! Ronan might be in a little bit of trouble here as Mercer picks him up from the front and he begins to hammer away at the back! Mercer then gets him up and picks him up in a fireman’s carry…but Ronan is trying his best to fight out with elbow shots to the side of the face before slipping off – AND THEN DELIVERS A FOREARM SHOT TO THE BACK OF THE HEAD! Ronan tries to use this window of opportunity to capitalize as he steps up on the second turnbuckle….while pointing down to our guests at ringside.

Sierra Everett: Careful up there.

James Peters: AND RONAN LEAPS OFF THE SECOND TURNBUCKLE…AND MERCER CATCHES HIM WITH A CLOTHESLINE IN MID AIR! Ronan takes his eyes off the ball again and Mercer again makes him pay for it. And Mercer now begins to measure Ronan up now – AND HE TURNS HIM AROUND AND GRABS HIM BY THE THROAT! MERCER PICKS HIM UP AND DRILLS RONAN WITH A VICIOUS CLOTHESLINE!! MERCER GOES FOR ANOTHER COVER NOW!!

OOOOOONNNNNNEEEEEE!!!

TTTWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!!!

Rich Russillo: Ronan kicks out at two again! And Mercer wastes no time in going back on the attack picking Ronan up…AND DELIVERS A HEADBUTT THAT DRIVES RONAN BACK INTO THE CORNER!! Mercer backs up into the opposite corner now….AND HE CHARGES WITH A FULL HEAD OF STEAM – BUT RONAN GETS HIS FEET UP STOPPING HIM DEAD IN HIS TRACKS!! Ronan switches spots with Mercer placing him in the corner, AND GOES HITS SEVERAL SHOTS TO THE FACE BEFORE DELIVERING REPETITIVE SHOULDER THRUSTS TO THE MIDSECTION! AND OH NO…RONAN BACKS UP INTO THE OPPOSITE CORNER BEFORE RUNNING AND DELIVERING A SPLASH IN THE CORNER….AND THEN FOLLOWS THAT UP WITH A HIP TOSS IN THE CENTER OF THE RING!!

Halsey Neel: Momentum might actually be on Ronan’s side, let’s see if he can actually do something right for once in his life and perhaps put Mercer away.

James Peters: RONAN NOW….RONAN DELIVERS HIS “DREAM CRUSHER” RIGHT HOOK RIGHT TO THE FACE DROPPING MERCER DOWN!! RONAN QUICKLY FALLS DOWN ON TOP OF HIM AND HOOKS THE LEG!!

OOOOOONNNNNNEEEEEEE!!!

TTTWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!!!

James Peters: MERCER KICKS OUT OF IT! And Ronan isn’t happy about it pounding the mat in some frustration.

Sierra Everett: He seems upset. :mjlol:

RIch Russillo: Ronan knows he can’t give Mercer any room to breathe as he mounts over the top of him and begins to throw several forearm strikes to the face as Mercer tries covering up…but Mercer flips it with Ronan now on his back driving his forearm in his face as Ronan tries scooting away under the ropes and grabs ahold of the bottom rope holding on for dear life! Mercer grabs him by the foot and tries pulling him away from the ropes, but Ronan is refusing to let go…AND DELIVERS A KICK RIGHT TO THE FACE OF MERCER!! Ronan stands up in the corner as Mercer runs at him once more…but nobody home as he steps out of the way!

James Peters: RONAN RUNS UP BEHIND MERCER AND THEN DELIVERS A GERMAN SUPLEX! You can tell that took a lot out of him as he is yelling in pain still holding his back. Ronan begins to measure up Mercer, and then picks him up in a fireman’s carry- BUT RONAN’S INJURED BACK GAVE OUT ON HIM!! Mercer looks to seize this opportunity and immediately runs off the ropes and then delivers a splash right on top of the back of Ronan!!

Halsey Neel: Well that’s gotta hurt.

Persephone: Mercer doesn’t stop there though as he quickly picks Ronan up off of the mat and gets him up in position…AND DROPS HIM RIGHT DOWN ON HIS HEAD!! MERCER CONNECTS WITH THE INFERNAL BOMB BEFORE HOOKING THE LEG FOR THE WIN!!

OOOOOONNNNNNEEEEEEE!!!

TTTWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!!!

TTTTTTHHHHHRRRRREEEEEEEE!!!

Rich Russillo: AND RONAN KICKS OUT!!

Halsey Neel: With how hurt he’s saying he is, it’s prolly not wise staying in this match with a competitor like Halsey. Then again, it’s rare Ronan shows any determination so I guess there’s that.

James Peters: Ronan continues to struggle to make it back to his feet as Mercer is just waiting on him. AND MERCER PLACES HIM BETWEEN THE LEGS AND PICKS HIM UP IN A POWERBOMB POSITION…BUT RONAN ESCAPES IT JUMPING OFF AND LANDING ON HIS FEET BEFORE MERCER TIRNS AROUND AND RONAN NAILS HIM WITH A BIG BOOT RIGHT TO THE FACE!! Ronan takes this time to recuperate in the corner as he again tries to tell the referee he shouldn’t be wrestling. Ronan now is the one stalking Mercer as he turns him around, kick to the midsection…AND THEN RONAN DRILLS HIS HEAD INTO THE MAT WITH A SPIKE DDT!

Rich Russillo: Ronan looks to have that confidence back as that grin crosses his face and he can feel things turning his way. Mercer is up and turns around…AND RONAN PICKS HIM UP IN A BEARHUG!!! RONAN IS SQUEEZING THE LIFE OUT OF MERCER RIGHT NOW YELLING AT HIM TO GIVE UP, BUT MERCER IS TRYING TO FIGHT OUT OF IT AS HE RAINS DOWN ELBOWS ON THE TOP OF RONAN’S SKULL WHICH WAS ENOUGH TO LET HIM GO AS MERCER STUMBLES BACK BEFORE RUNNING AT RONAN AGAIN….BUT RONAN CATCHES HIM WITH HIS SPINNING “VERTIGO”!!! AND RONAN WITH THE HOOK OF THE LEG!!

OOOOOONNNNNNEEEEEEE!!!

TTTWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!!!

TTTTTTHHHHHRRRRREEEEEEE!!

Rich Russillo: OHHH MERCER STAYS ALIVE! Ronan again is mad about it questioning how it wasn’t a three count.

Candice Blair: His delusional self can question it all he wants but he better keep it going.

Persephone: Ronan picks Mercer up slowly from the head but it’s almost like dead weight at this point – MAYBE NOT AS MERCER DELIVERS A VICIOUS HEADBUTT THAT DRIVES RONAN BACK INTO THE CORNER! I think Mercer may have been playing possum there as he had Ronan in the perfect spot now….AND MERCER DROPS RONAN WITH A STIFF RIGHT HAND SHOT TO THE SIDE OF THE FACE! AND NOW IT’S MERCER WHO LOCKS RONAN IN A BEARHUG!! MERCER BEGINS TO SWING RONAN BACK AND FORTH LIKE A TODDLER AS RONAN IS SCREAMING IN PAIN BECAUSE OF WHAT MERCER DID EARLIER TAKING EFFECT RIGHT NOW AND RONAN MIGHT BE IN SOME SERIOUS TROUBLE RIGHT HERE, WHAT’S HE GONNA DO?

James Peters: AND OH MY GOD! RONAN SMACKED BOTH SIDES OF MERCER’S SKULL WITH HIS HANDS CAUSING THE BREAK! Ronan is having trouble standing as Mercer grabs him by the head – EUROPEAN UPPERCUT FROM RONAN OUT OF NOWHERE! RONAN DELIVERS A BIG BOOT THAT KNOCKS MERCER INTO THE ROPES…BUT MERCER REBOUNDS OFF THE ROPES WITH A LARIAT ALMOST TURNING RONAN INSIDE OUT!! RONAN CERTAINLY WASN’T EXPECTING THAT AS MERCER FLIPS HIM ON HIS BACK AND GOES FOR ANOTHER COVER!!

OOOOOONNNNNNEEEEEEE!!!

TTTWWWWWWWOOOOOOOO!!!

TTTTTTHHHHHRRRRREEEEEEEE!!!

Rich Russillo: RONAN IS STILL IN AS HE KICKS OUT AT TWO AND A HALF!! Gotta give Ronan a little bit of credit fighting as hard as he is while supposedly injured, right girls?

Sierra Everett: The longer this goes on, the more I hope Mercer continues to break him while we finish the job later on.

Persephone: I think we should all quiet down and enjoy this match!

Halsey Neel: I think you should watch your mouth.

Persephone: Sorry. 🙄

James Peters: Ronan is gasping for air as he slowly pushes back up to his feet, even if we look past what happened before the match, Mercer has beaten him down a lot in this one and while he’s shown a whole lot of fight, he can’t seem to get something going. Mercer has him by the head, as he begins to drag him toward one of the corners, slamming his head against the top turnbuckle pad! Ronan’s head bounces off before he pushes himself against the corner, only for Mercer to once again grab him… AND SEND HIM ACROSS THE RING WITH A BIEL THROW!

Persephone: But Ronan stops the attack with an elbow to the head! This stops Mercer while Ronan shoves him toward the center of the ring like this is a middle school fight, before sliding out of the ring… inconveniently rounding the corner… BEFORE SLIDING BACK IN AND CONNECTING WITH A CLOTHESLINE TO THE HEAD! Look at that rage in the eyes of Ronan Malosi, looking like a toddler who didn’t get a present on Christmas, before he mounts on top of Mercer and begins to unload on with rights to his face in order to keep him grounded!

Rich Russillo: Ronan is unloading offense down onto him, relenting before the referee can step in and getting back to his feet. He circles around Mercer, seizing that back of his and taking this time while he can to get some well needed recovery. Mercer is beginning to rise back up, clutching his head and shaking off the pain while Ronan quickly approaches him. He runs past him though and runs to the ropes and back… BEFORE CONNECTING WITH A RIGHT TO THE SIDE OF HIS HEAD! Mercer doesn’t drop though, and it causes Ronan to run the ropes again… CONNECTING WITH ANOTHER RIGHT! Mercer is still on a knee though, in fact I think this is infuriating him more than hurting him, and Ronan quickly turns around… GOING FOR A THIRD RIGHT HAND!

James Peters: BUT WHILE RONAN IS RUNNING TOWARD HIM, MERCER POPS HIM UP INTO THE AIR AND FOLLOWS IT UP WITH A BACK ELBOW STRIKE! ‘EMPTY PRAYERS’ CONNECTS AND DROPS RONAN DOWN TO THE GROUND!

Rich Russillo: He’s down, but I don’t think Mercer is looking to go for the pin just yet, no, he’s looking to close this match! He circles around Ronan like a hunter that’s found his prey, just waiting for him to get back up to his feet so that he can continue picking him apart like a rabid animal.

Persephone: Why all this weird wording, just say that he’s looking to hit his finisher, and if he does it’ll be game over for baldy. He’s getting back up though, and I don’t think he knows what’s going to wait for him on the other side…

James Peters: HE’S GOING FOR ‘HALL OF ATONEMENT’! LIFTING HIM OFF OF THE GROUND AND CONNECTING WITH A STANDING TIGER DRIVER ‘91! MERCER THEN GRABS HIM BY THE LEGS AND LOOKS FOR THE GIANT SWING-

Rich Russillo: BUT RONAN REFUSES AND BOOTS HIM WITH HIS LEG BEFORE HE CAN COMPLETELY GRAB A HOLD OF HIM! He’s hurt but still fighting as he pulls himself away and staggers back up to his feet, Mercer looks very unhappy at this as he quickly approaches, GRABBING HIM BY THE THROAT AND GOING FOR A CHOKESLAM- But before that happens Ronan connects with an elbow to the side of the head before grabbing him, AND LIFTING HIM INTO A CHOKESLAM OF HIS OWN! Ronan keeps his hand wrapped around his throat as he brings him back up, BEFORE LIFTING HIM UP OFF THE GROUND AND FOLLOWING THAT UP WITH A CHOKESLAM BACKBREAKER!

Candice Blair: He’s certainly doing a lot to convince us he has some fight in him, shame that we’re not all that intimidated.

Sierra Everett: I mean, who would be intimidated by him regardless of how he feels on a day-to-day, he’s a wimp.

James Peters: Well regardless he pulls away and now looks like he might be able to win given the right moves. Ronan falls back against the ropes, taking a moment to collect himself before pushing off and making his way over to Mercer once again, grabbing him by the head and bringing him back up to his feet. He grabs him by the arm and sends him into the corner, RUSHING FORWARD AND CONNECTING WITH A CLOTHESLINE TO THE HEAD! Mercer would slouch down to a seated position, before Ronan would follow that up with some hard stomps to his chest to start caving him in! He then turns around and hopes to get a running start… BEFORE LOOKING TO CONNECT WITH A RUNNING BIG BOOT TO THE FACE!

Persephone: But Mercer manages to rub those two brain cells together and get himself out of there before Ronan can connect! He pulls himself out of harm’s way using the ropes while Ronan collides with the corner at full force! He takes the brunt of the damage before shaking it off and making his way over to Mercer, BUT BEFORE HE CAN DO ANYTHING MERCER GRABS HIM AROUND THE WAIST AND SLAMS HIM TO THE GROUND! As per Ronan is in trouble and I would not be surprised if he just lost right now.

Halsey Neel: Wouldn’t want that, we want to be the ones to humiliate him, that would just stifle the fun of it all, wouldn’t it?

Rich Russillo: Well I’m not going to assume what happens to end this match or what happens afterward. Ronan staggers backward and falls against the ropes, barely managing to keep himself upward while Mercer is back up to his feet, CHARGING TOWARD HIM AND GOING FOR A CLOTHESLINE OVER THE TOP ROPE- JUST FOR RONAN TO PULL THE ROPES DOWN AND SEND HIM OVER INSTEAD! This sends him tumbling down to the ground and Ronan immediately drops down and rolls out of the ring, circling around and approaching before connecting with an axe handle to the back of the head to keep him in a kneel!

James Peters: Ronan now begins to tee off with forearm shots to the face of Mercer to further weaken him, before then grabbing him by the head and bringing him back up… ONLY FOR MERCER TO GRAB AROUND THE WAIST AND RAM HIM AT FULL VELOCITY STRAIGHT INTO THE RING APRON! Ronan gives a cry of pain while Mercer turns around, LOOKING TO SEND HIM INTO THE BARRICADE AS WELL- JUST FOR RONAN TO SLIP OUT AND SEND MERCER SHOULDER FIRST INTO IT INSTEAD!

Persephone: Both of them are going at it right now, it’s a shame that this match has to end sooner or later, right? Well, I sure hope so. Mercer is hurt and slouched down while Ronan grabs him by the head and begins to drag him toward the ring, possibly looking to roll him into the ring now, but before he can do anything it’s Mercer that begins to send elbows to his chest to force his grip to loosen! Ronan is hurt and Mercer looks to take advantage, GRABBING HIM BY THE HEAD AND SLAMMING HIM FACE FIRST AGAINST THE EDGE OF THE RING APRON! His shiny head bounces off and leaves him staggering, BEFORE MERCER GRABS HIM AND DOES IT ONE MORE TIME BECAUSE IT’S FUNNY!

Rich Russillo: Ronan is hurt and Mercer rolls him back into the ring, taking the time right now to collect himself. He knows that he has him right where he wants him, and if he’s able to take advantage of that then he could very well have this match in the bag. But Ronan Malosi has some tricks up his sleeve, and he’s going to have to make sure that he’s unable to execute that or it’s going to end up costing him. Mercer slides into the ring…

James Peters: JUST FOR RONAN TO GET BACK UP TO HIS FEET AND GO FOR ‘VERTIGO’ TO TAKE MERCER DOWN!

(Ronan staggers back thanks to the impact, but manages to keep himself grounded as he looks down at Mercer. With a light smirk on his face he looks to finish this off… until rustling is heard at the commentary table.)

Persephone: Oh thank Gawd they’re leaving, I thought they would just keep running their mouths for eternity. I thought I was in heck.

Rich Russillo: THE #DISNEYBESTIES HAVE MADE THEIR WAY TOWARD THE RING AND THEY’RE YELLING AT RONAN, TRYING TO DISTRACT HIM BEFORE HE CAN FINISH THE JOB HERE! THEY DON’T WANT RONAN TO WIN, SO THEY’RE GOING TO MAKE SURE THAT THEY DO WHATEVER THEY CAN TO PREVENT THAT FROM HAPPENING…

James Peters: BUT RONAN CONNECTS WITH A SUICIDE DIVE TO TAKE ALL THREE OF THEM OUT ON THE OUTSIDE! WHAT AGILITY! RONAN SLIDES BACK INTO THE RING…

Rich Russillo: ONLY FOR MERCER TO GRAB HIM BY THE THROAT AND START THE PROCESS OF ‘SEED OF EVIL’! CHOKESLAM BACKBREAKER-

James Peters: WAIT! RONAN BREAKS FREE AND GRABS MERCER BY THE HEAD BEFORE BRINGING HIM DOWN INTO AN INSIDE CRADLE PIN!

OOONNNEEE!!!

TTTTWWWWOOOO!!!!

TTTTTTHHHHHHRRRRRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!

(DING! DING! DING!)

(‘Mo Money’ begins to play up again while Ronan Malosi hightails it out of the ring before Mercer McKay can grab a hold of him and pummel him to oblivion. It looks like he just won the lottery, as he’s on his feet and running circles with his hands in the air. The referee makes his way out of the ring and raises his hand in victory.)

Bella Braxton: Here is your winner… RONAN MALOSI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Persephone: Are we just going to ignore the fact he just did a Suicide Dive out of the ring? What has Elite Answers Wrestling come to…

Rich Russillo: I’m focused on the fact that through all odds, Ronan Malosi has come out victorious in this matchup! Both Elitists fought hard, but even with an interference by the #DisneyBesties, Ronan did have a trick up his sleeve and that allowed him to quickly roll up Mercer for the win.

James Peters: Well that certainly didn’t make Mercer McKay or the #DisneyBesties all that happy here tonight, and I’m sure there’s going to be heck to pay for Ronan next week given the opportunity. But right now all that’s certain is that Ronan Malosi is your winner!

(The camera goes to Candice, Halsey, and Sierra looking absolutely livid as they recover on the outside. Meanwhile Mercer is slamming the canvas repeatedly, he is furious, steam coming out of his ears, he can’t believe that this has happened tonight. A pained Ronan on the stage waves to all of them and it’s the last shot seen before Sunday Night Voltage fades to elsewhere.)

(Sunday Night Voltage fades backstage and toward the Ice Aces locker room. It was completely empty at the moment except for one person sitting there all by herself, ARIA. It was a bit of a rough state that she was in at the moment, and I mean, who wouldn’t be after what happened? She lost the Specialists Championship just a week ago, she isn’t incredibly sad over what happened, it was inevitable she was going to lose it one way or another, and it was at least against someone she respected. But it made her think and reflect… What now? It is hard to find the answer to those kinds of questions when you are the problem yourself, and now detective, what do you have to do to solve this?)

(It was then that a sudden knock could be heard at the door to the locker room, right, she almost forgot, she requested a cameraman to come over here and help her film something and give her thoughts on what happened. She twiddled her thumbs for a moment, thinking it over before finally, an idea came to her. Well, not exactly an idea as a solution to her problem, but an idea to go to another place so she can think better… somewhat, kinda, anyway! She immediately got up and rushed toward the door, opening it and revealing it was indeed the cameraman who was knocking on the door. He was going to say something before ARIA quickly rushed out of the door and into the hallway- OH YES, she needs the cameraman! She immediately turned back and toward the cameraman.)

ARIA: HI, uh… sorry, change of plans, we are going to go to another place to film this, alright? Alright, let’s go!

(Before the guy could even say another word, she quickly grabbed him from his wrist and started dragging him around with her as she rushed through the hallways. Where was she planning to go in the first place? She moved as fast as she could, dodging through the crew working around and immediately going up a flight of stairs which led them higher and higher above the stadium. Just then, it seemed the camera man realized where she wanted to go, she… wanted to go to the roof of the Sports Center?! Yes, that was indeed her idea! But it was clear it would be kind of impossible to do that so she would go with what was second best, as she opened one last door on the top floor and it led to a scaffolding platform where people did maintenance on. It didn’t lead to the actual roof, but it was still kind of high up in the air. She finally let go of the cameraman and calmly leaned over the railing to take a deep breath in and out, she felt a lot more calm and concentrated as she slowly turned back towards him.)

ARIA: Sorry for dragging you around this entire place like that, I wanted to be able to talk in another place and be able to give my thoughts. I didn’t think I would be able to do it with all of those walls and stuff surrounding me, so simply having the sky around me and my feet on the ground would give me good scenery to run off of. I still don’t know why I like this kind of scenery more exactly, maybe it has to do with the fact that my name in Italian means “air”, get it? ARIA? Aira? It kind of works!

(It was then that she noticed the cameraman wasn’t really paying attention to her and just working on focusing the camera and preparing. Of course, she was just talking to herself again. She let out a small sigh and began to pace around a little bit more than usual, using that time to think over what she wanted to say and express to the people watching. The camera started filming and ARIA closed her eyes for a moment, before opening them back up and turning toward the camera.)

ARIA: Hey! Long time no see, huh? Well, actually, it was more like a short time no see. You all did watch me just last week after all, but you get the point of what I was trying to say! It has been… a wild ride for all of us, huh? A rollercoaster that we really couldn’t get out of, but eventually there was going to be an end to that and then off you went, to the next ride that was just around the corner to continue your stay. You are supposed to feel happy in those kinds of places but I ended up getting off and feeling… slightly, empty at the end. And who can blame me? I lost the Specialists Championship, the Championship that I promised I would uphold, and promised to be the best Champion I could be in my own way, and looking back on it, I am proud of a few things… and I am not so proud of others. I kept my promise to help out people, I never denied that, but it is slightly disappointing that the people I wanted to help didn’t hold up their end of their bargain or they simply rejected me. And yes, the moment was dream-like, getting my first Championship and finally achieving my dream of becoming a Champion, redeeming myself with what I had to deal with before in the past… and I ended up feeling like at the end I could have given more than what I did. It is a weird feeling, to say the least.

ARIA: What I can truly take away from it is that because I had that title reign and I achieved that Championship in the first place, that it has allowed me to believe in myself more than I have in the past, and it is a beautiful thing that I can appreciate from that. Being able to make all of those promises come true, making all of my friends and family proud, and simply just… finally being called a Champion? That made me happy, that made me want to reach the stars and fly through the cosmos, but now I am here back on the ground with… nothing in my hands. Again, I wish Milli good luck with the Specialists Championship and the reign she will have. I am glad that the person who took my Championship is someone like her who will take good care of it just like I did.

(She stops for a moment and looks down at the ground for a few seconds, before raising her head up again and speaking up with conviction and a determined expression on her face.)

ARIA: But do you think I am just here to give you a sob story? No, what kind of woman do you actually take me for? I could sit here all day and keep talking about all that I have done as Champion, but I know that it is now time for me to focus on my next move and what I want to do next. I feel like there is a lot more for me to do, a lot more helping to make from my part, my story doesn’t end here, it was just the end of another chapter in it, and how does the next chapter start? Well, I took some time to think about what I wanted to do after losing the title, and after some time, I came to a conclusion and I finally know exactly what I want next.

(ARIA stood silent for a moment not saying anything for a few seconds, it seems she was thinking it over once again, wondering if what she was going to say was really going to be a good idea or not. But then finally she made up her mind and decided to say the answer.)

ARIA: I want to challenge Dr. Bethany Blue for the Universal Women’s Championship!

(If there was a crowd out there at the moment, they would probably gasp and cheer in surprise at the moment, but it was the only sound of that wind that responded to her after she talked. She let out a small sigh and looked right towards the lens of the camera.)

ARIA: I know that the doctor is not in the building tonight, I saw that she is in her hometown of Miami doing the rounds for Fighting Spirit, but I couldn’t really contain my decision to myself any longer. At that event I want to face Dr. Bethany Blue for the Universal Women’s Championship. I knew I had to take a big leap after my Specialists Championship reign, I heard the complaints about the women I was facing there and honestly, to shut those down, I am going to end up going through with this decision. I know that in the previous match that I had against the doctor, I ended up losing it, but I feel that I learned a lot both from that experience and everything that I have gone through since then, so I want to fight her again, at Fighting Spirit. I believe that I can go all the way and be the one that dethrones Bethany. That is the message that I wanted to relay to you all tonight… hope you enjoy the show.

(ARIA then quickly moved over and walked away from the camera, she simply stood over to the side and took another deep breath, was the decision she was making a good one? Her brain said no but her heart said yes, the journey simply continued on and she knew that, but she had the choice for her next stop and what do you know? This is the next one. She nodded to herself and slowly walked away from the scaffolding as the cameraman stopped recording and Voltage faded away to a commercial break.)

(A commercial is shown for Guardians of The Galaxy 3, Rocket Raccoon is NOT dying.)

(The camera cuts to Bella Braxton in the ring.)

Bella Braxton: The following contest is scheduled for ONE FALL!

Crowd: ONE FALL!!

(‘Seek and Destroy’ by Metallica plays out Halsey Neel to a negative ovation from the fans. Halsey is completely focused and ready for the upcoming match, but she waits on the stage as ‘Spaceship II’ by Alex Wiley, Chance the Rapper plays out Sierra Everett next, who receives an equally negative reaction. Once Sierra meets Halsey at the stage, they walk to the ring together.)

Bella Braxton: Introducing first! At a combined weight of 281 pounds…THE TEAM OF HALSEY NEEL AND SIERRA EVERETT…#DISNEYBESTIES!

James Peters: Here they are, #DisneyBesties, who have been making their presence known on the Voltage brand.

Rich Russillo: They are force to be reckoned with, and ARIA learnt that first hand at Tempest, almost losing her title thanks to Disney Besties.

James Peters: She has her teammates to thank for that. But speaking of teams, Halsey and Sierra are one, but their opponents on the other hand…

(Halsey and Sierra discuss strategy in their corner as ‘LIKE IT! LOVE IT!’ by Setsuna Yuki blares throughout the arena, playing down Ayu Megimi, who walks down the rampway, and reluctantly awaits the arrival of her partner. ‘Trepanation’ by Millennium Parade plays out the Hardcore Champion, Hikari Kanno, who barely acknowledges Ayu Megumi, walking right by her, and the two split into opposite directions.)

Bella Braxton: And their opponents! At a combined weight of 236…THE TEAM OF AYU MEGUMI AND THE EAW HARDCORE CHAMPION, HIKARI KANNO!!

James Peters: As you can see, they aren’t much of a well oiled machine compared to Halsey and Sierra, and definitely aren’t besties, that’s for certain.

Rich Russillo: Besties? After what Hikari did to Ayu earlier tonight?

Persephone: What’d she do again?

James Peters: Weren’t you paying attention?

Persephone: Uh, duh! I’m just asking so everybody else knows.

James Peters: Right. Well, I’ll explain shortly.

(Disney Besties discuss strategy with each other, and decide for Sierra to start off. On the other hand, Ayu and Hikari argue back and forth, barely able to decide who starts off, that is until Hikari simply exits, tired from arguing.)

(DING! DING! DING!)

James Peters: Alright, the bell has rung, and it’ll be both Ayu Megumi and Sierra Everett starting things off for their respective teams. Sierra has a giant grin on her face, confident about her chances in the ring with Megumi, who still might be reeling from that blow to head by Hikari, using her Hardcore Championship as a weapon. Thankfully, Ayu had some time afterward to cool down, and wasn’t immediately thrusted into a match.

Rich Russillo: While it isn’t our first time seeing Ayu, it also isn’t our first time seeing #DisneyBesties tonight, who joined us at this very table for Ronan Malosi’s match versus Mercer McKay. From special guest commentators to in-ring, these two are looking to prove they can do it all!

James Peters: Both women circle each other, and initiate a lock up in the center of the ring. Ayu gains the early advantage with an arm wringer on Sierra, maintaining control of the wrist, and transitions into a hammerlock. Sierra reverses with a hammerlock of her own, which she transitions into a standing side headlock. Ayu pushes Sierra off, and Everett almost goes stumbling into Halsey on the apron, but stops herself short of doing so.

Rich Russillo: Sierra feels a bit embarrassed off that, and spins around, RUNNING RIGHT INTO A SIDE HEADLOCK TAKEDOWN FROM AYU! She charged in like a bull, and paid for it. Sierra tries escaping from the grounded side headlock with a headscissors, but Ayu avoids it, keeping her head just out of reach. Sierra uses her forearm, and presses up it against Ayu’s jaw, pushing her head back, so she’s in reach for a second headscissors escape attempt by Everett, which is successful this go around.

James Peters: Quickly, Ayu kicks out of the headscissors, and both competitors scramble back to their feet, at a stalemate!

Persephone: 👏 These two wrestlers can WRESTLE! 😱

James Peters: Sierra backpedals to her corner, and briefly discusses strategy with Halsey. Ayu beckons Sierra toward the center of the ring, and both competitors circle each other again before closing the distance with a good old fashioned test of strength, also known as a greco-roman knuckle lock. Both hands have interlocked, and after jockeying for position, Ayu repeats her strategy from earlier, wringing the arm of Sierra- WHO BLASTS HER IN THE MOUTH WITH A FOREARM!

Rich Russillo: That’s one way to break the wristlock. Ayu gets grabbed by the back of her head, and Sierra begins directing Megumi toward her corner, which is the one place Ayu doesn’t want to be, and she realizes that, grabbing the back of Sierra’s waistband, and pulling her into a rear waistlock! Ayu backpedals into her corner, and Hikari tags Megumi on the back!

**TAG!!**

James Peters: Ayu is keeping hold of Sierra in the corner, having her trapped in that rear waistlock still, AND HIKARI TAKES FULL ADVANTAGE WITH RIGHT HANDS TO THE FACE! The referee intervenes with a five count as Ayu can’t assist Kanno forever.

Referee: ONE! TWO! THREE!

Rich Russillo: Ayu releases the hold, and Sierra drops to a knee. Hikari and Ayu lock eyes briefly before Ayu exits the ring, and Kanno stands Sierra back up. Hikari leans Sierra up against the ropes-

**TAG!!**

James Peters: Mind games being played by Ayu, who quickly tags herself back in, which annoys Hikari to no end. But regardless, she bounces Sierra off the ropes with an irish whip, AND KNOCKS HER DOWN WITH A BACK ELBOW! Ayu re-enters the ring, and Hikari crosses her path on her way OUT of the ring. The tension is palpable between those two, but Ayu keeps her attention on the task at hand, which is neutralizing Sierra Everett.

Rich Russillo: Sierra is still reeling from that back elbow, and slowly gets to her feet, keeping her back turned to Megumi, who is stalking her from the corner. Sierra spins around, AND ALMOST GETS CAUGHT WITH A CLAYMORE KICK, BUT ROLLS OUT OF THE RING TO AVOID IT! Sierra’s frustration is starting to show as she slams both hands on our announce table cover.

(Persephone got startled by the loud noise, given she was snoozing off, and becomes annoyed as a result of having her nap interrupted.)

Persephone: Hey, watch it, will you?! :wtf:

James Peters: Someone is cranky when woken up.

Persephone: Wouldn’t you be?! …I mean, I can’t have been woken up, because I’m already up, alert, and ready to call some action!

James Peters: Sure, and I’m Beyonce.

Rich Russillo: Halsey has dropped off the apron, and calms Sierra down through a quick pep talk. The contents of said pep talk I wasn’t able to pick up, but Halsey whispered SOMETHING in Sierra’s ear, which has motivated her to get back in the ring. From the looks of it, Sierra is rejuvenated, bouncing up and down, and taunting Ayu, who gets into a grappling stance, once again, beckoning Sierra towards the center of the ring where she is.

James Peters: But Sierra has other plans, tagging out to Halsey Neel!

**TAG!!**

James Peters: That must’ve been what Halsey whispered in Sierra’s ear ringside, telling her she wants in. Halsey and Ayu circle one another, but neither competitor closes the distance as Halsey decides she doesn’t want to face Ayu, and points toward Hikari with a devilish grin on her face.

Rich Russillo: The crowd would certainly like to see those two lock horns again, and are letting their opinions be known. Hikari doesn’t seem against it either, sticking her hand out for the tag. Ayu contemplates it, but ultimately gives in!

**TAG!!**

James Peters: Tag! Hikari enters the ring, and marches toward Neel, meeting her in the middle. Both competitors are staring each other down, exchanging words, which our cameras can’t quite pick up.

Rich Russillo: This is a bold move on Halsey’s end, choosing she wants the one-hundred percent healthy, Hardcore Champion as opposed to Ayu Megumi.

James Peters: To Halsey, she doesn’t have much to prove against Ayu, but does want to prove something to Hikari, who defeated Halsey in her first title defense. Halsey deflects any blame for that loss, believing it was due to Ronan Malosi’s interference, and if she can back that up with a pinfall victory over Hikari, who can deny her then?

Rich Russillo: Halsey can earn more from pinning Hikari than simply bragging rights, mainly if Hikari remains champion after her next defense against Ayu, that’d have put Halsey in title contention. Lord knows Disney Besties are looking to add a Championship to their ranks. Hikari shoves Halsey back, but Halsey returns with a shove of her own!

James Peters: THAT SERIOUSLY TICKED OFF HIKARI, WHO MOVES PAST THE POINT OF PUSHING, AND CHARGES INTO NEEL WITH A BARRAGE OF ELBOW STRIKES TO THE FACE! HALSEY IS STUNNED, AND HIKARI RUNS OFF THE ROPES IN FRONT OF HER, TAKING HALSEY OFF HER FEET WITH A BIG BOOT! HALSEY RUSHES TO ALL FOURS, AND HIKARI CAPITALIZES WITH A LA MAGISTRAL CRADLE!

ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!

TWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOO!!

Persephone: Kickout at two… unfortunately.

Rich Russillo: Hikari gets to her feet before Halsey, and stands her up in a front facelock! Hikari is going for Alleluia, that Northern Lights Bomb! SIERRA SEES THIS, AND ENTERS THE RING, CHARGING HIKARI WITH A CLOTHESLINE ATTEMPT, BUT HIKARI DUCKS UNDERNEATH IT! AND SIERRA IS CHASED OUT OF THE RING BY AYU MEGUMI, WHO CANT GET HER HANDS ON EVERETT, AS SIERRA CREATES CONSIDERABLE SPACE BETWEEN THE TWO!

James Peters: REGARDLESS, HIKARI GOES BACK TO ATTEMPTING ALLELUIA, PLACING HALSEY’S ARM AROUND HER HEAD! BUT HALSEY SHIFTS THE MOMENTUM, AND LIFTS HIKARI UP INSTEAD FOR A RUNNING SUPLEX! That distraction by Sierra must’ve bought Halsey some time! Speaking of, Halsey pulls Hikari back to her feet, and bounces her face first off the top turnbuckle in the corner. Not just any corner, but #DisneyBesties corner, the one place Hikari doesn’t want to be.

Rich Russillo: HIKARI IS PINNED IN THAT CORNER, AND A KNIFE EDGE CHOP FROM HALSEY ECHOES THROUGHOUT THE ARENA!

**TAG!!**

James Peters: Sierra re-enters the ring, becoming legal competitor once more, AND BOTH MEMBERS OF DISNEY BESTIES WIND UP PUTTING THE BOOTS TO HIKARI KANNO IN THE CORNER! HIKARI TRIES TO PUT HER GUARD UP, BUT ITS HARD TO DEFEND WHEN THE STOMPS ARE COMING FROM TWO PEOPLE AT ONCE, WHO SHOW NO SIGNS OF RELENTING TIL HIKARI SINKS DOWN IN THE CORNER!

Rich Russillo: The referee reprimands both women, and his behest, Halsey leaves the ring, knowing the damage has already been done. Sierra grabs Hikari by the ankle, and drags her to the center for a cover, hooking the leg!

ONNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEE!!

TWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!

Rich Russillo: It was worth a try on Sierra’s end, but as expected, Hikari kicks out! Kanno sits herself up, trying to shake the cobwebs out of her head, but Sierra stays on her with a rear chinlock, slowing the match down, and bringing it to a pace she’s comfortable with.

Persephone: Yes, because I love when a performer slows the match down!

James Peters: I can tell from the sound of your voice! 😃

Persephone: :madstare: I ha- appreciate you noticing!

Rich Russillo: Despite Sierra trying to slow down Hikari’s momentum with the rear chinlock, Hikari powers back to a vertical base. The fans are starting to rally behind her, preferring action as opposed to rest holds. Panic is starting to set in for Sierra, watching as Hikari rises to her feet, and drives the back of her elbow into Everett’s abdomen! That loosened Sierra’s grip a bit, and Hikari keeps the elbows to the midsection going.

James Peters: BUT SIERRA CUTS HIKARI’S COMEBACK OFF WITH A KNEE TO THE MIDSECTION! Kanno goes down to a knee, and instead of instantly capitalizing, Sierra wastes time by running her mouth to Kanno, along with taunting the fans. Finally, Sierra focuses back on Hikari, who she stands up, and irish whips toward the ropes!

Rich Russillo: SIERRA GOES FOR CASH IN, CASH OUT! THAT SPRINGBOARD COMPLETE SHOT, BUT HIKARI SIDESTEPS IT, AND LANDS A ROPE HUNG BACKSTABBER! Sierra writhes in pain on the canvas, and Hikari starts crawling toward Ayu in the corner, who has her hand out for a tag.

James Peters: Sierra crawls after Hikari, and grabs hold of her ankle! Both competitors rise off the canvas, and Hikari is on one foot! She’s reaching out for the tag, but sees she’s out of reach, and turns around to face Sierra, CATCHING HER OFF GUARD WITH AN ENZIGURI! SIERRA GOES DOWN MOMENTARILY, AND HIKARI LEAPS FOR A TAG OUT TO AYU!

**TAG!!**

Rich Russillo: AYU RUSHES INTO THE RING, AND MAKES A BEELINE FOR SIERRA, WHO SCRAMBLES BACK TO HER FEET! CLOTHESLINE TAKES EVERETT DOWN, WHO IS QUICKLY BACK TO HER FEET AGAIN, ONLY TO BE TAKEN DOWN WITH A RUNNING BACK ELBOW THIS TIME! STILL, SIERRA REFUSES TO STAY DOWN, AND RUSHES BACK TO HER FEET! AYU GRABS HOLD OF THE WRIST, AND BOUNCES EVERETT OFF THE ROPES FOR AN IRISH WHIP!

James Peters: SIERRA REVERSES, SENDING AYU TOWARD THE ROPES INSTEAD! AYU REBOUNDS BACK WITH A SLINGBLADE, AND KEEPS HER MOMENTUM GOING AS SHE KNOCKS HALSEY OFF THE APRON WITH A RUNNING SINGLE LEG DROPKICK!

Rich Russillo: AYU PULLS HERSELF UP IN THE CORNER, AND SIERRA CHARGES IN- BUT RUNS RIGHT INTO A BIG BOOT FROM MEGUMI! SIERRA SPINS AROUND, AND IS STAGGERED AS AYU HOPS TO THE MIDDLE ROPE FOR- WELL, WE DONT FIND OUT AS SIERRA RUSHES HER!

James Peters: AYU LEAPS OVER SIERRA’S HEAD, LANDING ON HER FEET, AND SIERRA SPINS AROUND WITH A WILD RIGHT HAND ATTEMPT! BUT AYU CATCHES THE ARM, AND LAUNCHES SIERRA WITH AN EXPLODER SUPLEX! SIERRA ROLLS OUT OF THE RING, HOPING TO CREATE SEPARATION BETWEEN HERSELF AND MEGUMI! BUT AYU HAS THAT LOOK IN HER EYE, AND GOES TO RUN OFF THE ROPES FOR A SUICIDE DI-

Rich Russillo: HALSEY! HALSEY TRIPPED AYU UP FROM THE OUTSIDE, AND AYU TURNS AROUND, LEANING OVER THE TOP ROPE, AND REACHING OUT FOR HALSEY, WHO TAUNTS AYU FROM THE RINGSIDE AREA! MEGUMI TURNS AROUND, AND GETS CAUGHT WITH CASH IN, CASH OUT! AYU TURNS OVER, AND SIERRA HOOKS BOTH LEGS DEEP FOR A COVER!

ONNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!

TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!

THHHHHHRRRRRR-

Persephone: YE- NO!

James Peters: KICKOUT AT TWO!

Rich Russillo: Halsey is shocked that Ayu managed to kick out, but hops back on the apron, extending her hand for a tag out to Sierra!

**TAG!!**

Rich Russillo: TAG! HALSEY WASTES NO TIME ENTERING THE RING, AND MOUNTS AYU WITH REPEATED RIGHT HANDS TO THE SKULL! HALSEY PULLS AYU BACK TO HER FEET, AND SENDS HER INTO THE CORNER WITH AN IRISH WHIP! HALSEY CHARGES IN WITH A CLOTHESLINE, AND WRAPS HER ARMS AROUND THE WAIST OF AYU, WHO SHE DRIVES BACK FIRST INTO THE CORNER, AND SHE TRANSITIONS INTO A OVERHEAD BELLY TO BELLY, LAUNCHING AYU TO THE CENTER OF THE RING!

James Peters: Halsey drags Ayu closer to her corner, and tags out to Sierra!

**TAG!!**

James Peters: Halsey cranks a seated Ayu’s head sideways, keeping her in place for Sierra Everett to pick her spot with a BOOT TO THE FACE! Halsey exits the ring, and Sierra hangs Ayu on the middle rope for a choke, pressing down on the back of Ayu’s head!

Referee: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR!

Rich Russillo: The referee pulls Sierra away from Megumi, but with the referee’s back turned, Halsey takes advantage with a ROPE HUNG DDT, SPIKING AYU HEAD FIRST ON THE APRON! Megumi goes tumbling to the outside, and Neel gets back into position as if nothing happened. The referee sees Ayu ringside, writhing in pain, and questions Halsey, who denies any involvement.

James Peters: The suspicion is there, but the proof isn’t. Sierra tags out to Halsey!

**TAG!!**

James Peters: Halsey drops off the apron, and rolls Ayu back inside the ring for a cover!

ONNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!

TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!

TH-

James Peters: Kickout! Halsey turns to her partner’s strategy from earlier, and starts wearing Ayu down with a rear chinlock, halting any momentum she may be trying to build. Disney Besties have done a great job of maintaining control over the match at times, that is when they can snuff out whatever momentum their opponents are trying to build. Both Ayu and Hikari have been in control at certain points in this match, but have gotten momentum cut off. Part of that plays into the fact they aren’t a real tag team.

Rich Russillo: They’re opponents being forced to team up tonight.

Persephone: Can they coexist? 🤪

James Peters: Similar to Hikari, Ayu rises back to her feet, and delivers shots to the rib cage of Halsey, loosening and eventually breaking her grip. KNIFE EDGE CHOP TO THE CHEST BY AYU, FOLLOWED BY ANOTHER, AND ANOTHER! WITH HALSEY DAZED, AYU RUNS OFF THE ROPES FOR A- WAIT, HALSEY RUNS OFF THE SAME SET OF ROPES, AND TAKES AYU DOWN WITH A REBOUND CLOTHESLINE!

Rich Russillo: BUT HALSEY DOESNT STOP THERE, PULLING BACK AYU BACK UP FOR WHOM THE BELL TOLLS! AIR RAID CRASH NECKBREAKER! HALSEY HOOKS THE LEG!

ONNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!

TWWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!

THHHHHHHHHRRRRRRRRRR-

James Peters: HIKARI BREAKS THINGS UP WITH A KICK TO THE MIDSECTION OF HALSEY! Perhaps a serious lack of faith on her end.

Rich Russillo: That was the first time we’ve seen Hikari interfere on her team’s behalf, she must’ve really thought it was over, not wanting to take any chances with the possibility of Ayu losing there.

James Peters: The referee forces Hikari out of the ring, and Halsey is irritated at having her pin broken up, but stands Ayu back up, and pins her up in the #DisneyBestie corner. Halsey goes for a right, BUT AYU BLOCKS IT, DELIVERING A RIGHT HAND OF HER OWN, AND BATTLES BACK, FIGHTING HER WAY OUT OF THE CORNER WITH RIGHTS!

Rich Russillo: AYU GOES FOR ANOTHER- BUT HALSEY DUCKS UNDERNEATH, AND TRIES FOR A GERMAN SUPLEX! BUT AYU BACKFLIPS ON HER FEET, AND SPINS AROUND TO KNOCK SIERRA OFF THE APRON WITH A FOREARM! HALSEY SCRAMBLES TO HER FEET, AND AYU RUNS AT HER! BUT CATCHES HALSEY BY SURPRISE WHEN SHE SCURRIES BETWEEN THE LEGS OF NEEL, AND LEAPS FOR A TAG TO HIKARI!

**TAG!!**

James Peters: HALSEY TURNS AROUND AS HIKARI ENTERS THE RING, AND TRIES TO TAKE KANNO DOWN WITH A RIGHT! BUT HIKARI BLOCKS IT, AND UNLOADS WITH RIGHT HANDS HERSELF! HALSEY PUSHES HIKARI BACK INTO THE CORNER, AND KANNO SIDESTEPS A CLOTHESLINE ATTEMPT! HALSEY GOES STERNUM FIRST INTO THE TOP TURNBUCKLE, AND STAGGERS BACK INTO A GERMAN SUPLE- NO!

Rich Russillo: HIKARI SAW SIERRA SLIDING INSIDE THE RING, AND SHOVED HALSEY INTO EVERETT, SO THE TWO KNOCKED HEADS! SIERRA GOES DOWN, AND HALSEY IS SPUN AROUND FOR AN IRISH WHIP OFF THE ROPES! HALSEY REVERSES, SENDING HIKARI TO THE ROPES INSTEAD!

James Peters: HIKARI DUCKS UNDERNEATH A CLOTHESLINE, AND DUCKS UNDERNEATH A BACK ELBOW ATTEMPT AS WELL! RUNNING EUROPEAN UPPERCUT BY HIKARI! BOTH COMPETITORS GET BACK TO THEIR FEET, AND HALSEY FAVORS HER JAW! HIKARI HOOKS HER UP FOR A SUPLEX, BUT HALSEY BLOCKS IT, AND LIFTS HIKARI UP FOR ONE OF HER OWN!

Rich Russillo: HIKARI SLIPS OUT THE BACK, AND DELIVERS A KICK TO THE GUT ONCE HALSEY TURNS AROUND! ALLELU- NO! HALSEY TWIRLS OUT OF IT, AND HIKARI DOUBLE LEGS HER FOR A JACKKNIFE COVER!

ONNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!

TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!

James Peters: BOTH COMPETITORS RUSH BACK TO THEIR FEET, AND HALSEY SCORES A KICK TO THE GUT! IRISH WHIP ATTEMPT BY NEEL, BUT HIKARI TRAPS THE ARM FOR BRIGHTSTAR! HIGH ANGLE URANAGE SLAM! THAT MIGHT BE IT AS HIKARI MAKES THE COVER!

ONNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!

TWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!

THHHHHHHHRRRRRRREEEEEEE-

Rich Russillo: KICKOUT! HIKARI DOESNT PANIC, AND INSTEAD CLIMBS TO THE TOP ROPE! SIERRA GRABS HIKARI’S ANKLE, BUT HIKARI KICKS EVERETT OFF THE APRON FOR HER TROUBLES! HALSEY STRUGGLES BACK TO HER FEET, AND HIKARI DIVES OFF THE TOP ROPE! SPEAR! HALSEY CAUGHT HER OUT OF MID AIR WITH THE SPEAR!

Persephone: COVER!!

James Peters: Neither competitor can capitalize, and are both down on the canvas. Hikari clutches at her ribs, and starts rolling over, so she can tag out to Ayu, who extends her hand for one.

Rich Russillo: Halsey still is writhing in pain on the canvas, and isn’t in any shape to stop the tag from happening!

**TA-

James Peters: WAIT! AYU DROPPED OFF THE APRON! HIKARI IS NOT HAPPY ABOUT THIS, AND PULLS HERSELF UP IN THE CORNER, YELLING OUT AT AYU RINGSIDE, WHO HAS A SLIGHT GRIN ON HER FACE!

Rich Russillo: REMEMBER, WE SAID THEY ARE OPPONENTS BEING FORCED TO TEAM! THAT DOESNT ALWAYS WORK OUT, AS YOU CAN SEE! AYU DIDNT FORGET BEING BLASTED IN THE HEAD WITH THE HARDCORE CHAMPIONSHIP!

James Peters: FROM BEHIND! HALSEY WITH A SCHOOL GIRL!

ONNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!

TWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!

THHHHHHHHHRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!

(DING! DING! DING!)

Bella Braxton: HERES YOUR WINNER… #DISNEYBESTIES!

(‘Seek and Destroy’ by Metallica plays, and Halsey quickly rolls out of the ring, regrouping with Sierra, who meets on the ramp with a hug! Hikari stares at #DisneyBesties, shocked at what transpired, but Ayu has a smile on her face still, showing this may have been her plan the entire time.)

James Peters: I can’t say I’m shocked with what transpired! I mean, you can’t expect Ayu to forget what happened earlier.

Rich Russillo: But I think most people, including myself forgot slightly once the two appeared to be working as a team, tagging out to one another, breaking up pins, all that jazz.

James Peters: There was always lingering tension at play, and it came to a boiling point once the end hit! Ayu gets one over on the champ.

Persephone: If you say so, now can we move on to the next thing?

(Ayu slides into the ring as ‘Seek and Destroy’ by Metallica dies down, and a seething Hikari rises to her feet.)

James Peters: OOH! BOTH COMPETITORS ARENT DONE, AND ENGAGE IN FISTICUFFS, THROWING RIGHT HANDS AT ONE ANOTHER IN RAPID FASHION!

Persephone: Guess not…

Rich Russillo: AYU APPEARS TO BE WINNING THE EXCHANGE, BUT HIKARI TURNS THAT THOUGHT ON ITS HEAD, SHOVING AYU BACK SLIGHTLY! AYU CHARGES IN- BUT WALKS RIGHT INTO A KICK TO THE MIDSECTION, AND SHE SETS UP FOR ALLELUIA! NORTHERN LIGHT-

James Peters: AYU! AYU SLIPS OUT THE BACK, AND SHOVES HIKARI FORWARD! HIKARI HALTS HER MOMENTUM, AND SPINS AROUND- ETHEREAL BLADE! CLAYMORE KICK NEARLY TAKES HIKARI’S HEAD OFF!

(Ayu rises back to her feet, intensity in her eyes as she stares down at Kanno while ‘LIKE IT! LOVE IT!’ by Setsuna Yuki starts playing in the background.)

James Peters: FIRST OF ALL, WHAT A MATCH BETWEEN BOTH TEAMS! BUT THE TRUE STORY COMES AFTERWARDS!

Rich Russillo: AYU JUST KNOCKED OUT HIKARI, AND IF THAT HAPPENS IN THEIR HARDCORE TITLE MATCH, WE MAY HAVE A NEW CHAMPION!

(‘LIKE IT! LOVE IT!’ by Setsuna Yuki continues playing, and Ayu looks around at the audience while standing tall over Kanno. The crowd are firmly in support of Megumi, and she taunts as the camera fades elsewhere.)

(A commercial is shown for Shazam: Fury of Gods featuring Ronan Malosi who is asking why Black Adam isn’t in it.)

(Voltage returns to ringside and fades to the stage. After a little while, ‘SUN//EATER’ by Lorna Shore hits. This causes an extremely loud reaction from the fans, filled with both cheers and boos. The fans are eager to see the man this music belongs to regardless of whether they love him or hate him, and this is especially true following the events of Grand Rampage. A few seconds pass as the music plays, and finally Yhwach O’Hara begins to walk out to the stage, making his first appearance since his match against Methuselah. Yhwach is holding a microphone in his hand, and he has a calm look as he walks down the ramp, staring directly at the ring.)

James Peters: Yhwach O’Hara is walking out for the first time since Grand Rampage, and I don’t think it can be said enough just how controversial things were back at the event. There’s no telling what “should” have happened in his match against Methuselah, and it’s because of the way things *did* play out.

Rich Russillo: That’s right. Yhwach actually pushed Methuselah to his limit, to the point that Methuselah resorted to using the Winged Metatron’s Cube after Yhwach accidentally took out the referee! That object clearly isn’t normal as its purpose is to leave its victims unconscious for the rest of the night, and what happened to Yhwach was just proof of its power.

Persephone: Yes, very sad. I definitely remember that match, it’s such a shame that it had to end!

(Yhwach walks up the steel steps, entering the ring. He remains silent for some time, and it’s clear that Yhwach isn’t too happy about what happened in that match against Methuselah. Even so, as the fans quiet down Yhwach begins to speak.)

Yhwach O’Hara: Last week was not the last time we’ll share a ring, and next time things will be ending very differently.

(This causes another loud reaction from the fans, and Yhwach just continues to speak.)

Yhwach O’Hara: There’s no use in explaining what happened at Grand Rampage. Every single person watching right now, whether they’re in the arena, at home, or elsewhere, already is aware. Everyone saw it. Everyone heard about it. Everyone knows that Methuselah survived that match through actions even he should be embarrassed by. It’s not often that people throw themselves in my path just to dig an even deeper hole for themselves, but that is exactly what he did. That’s all that he did. Resorting to use of the Metatron’s Cube, Methuselah revealed that he was backed into a corner, becoming desperate without ever even considering the repercussions that’d come from his actions. I know who he is, so as much as anyone in my position would love to be surprised at what happened, I cannot. Grand Rampage was merely the result of my words being the truth, and Methuselah refusing to accept the reality that even now, three years after this fact was already proven, Gawd can’t compare. He did what he did, and that’s something he’ll pay for when the time comes. Grand Rampage was a mistake. It was an error in Methuselah’s judgment for believing he’d actually walk away from that without ever having to answer for his actions, and one in my own for even allowing things to reach that point. The one and only thing that needs to be said regarding Grand Rampage is that Methuselah will regret his decision. He’ll regret his choice to end things the way he did, to run away from the mess that he created rather than accepting his fate. This is far from over, and it won’t end until the fate Methuselah desperately tried to avoid has been reached.

(This cheers continue, but Yhwach does not stop speaking, saying something that catches the fans by surprise.)

Yhwach O’Hara: Just know revenge is not my purpose, and I will not spend the next few weeks chasing after a rematch. The latest chapter is not the finale, but in due time.

(This causes the fans to quiet down, allowing Yhwach to continue.)

Yhwach O’Hara: This is my world, and since my return there have been many people who were allowed to roam freely. People who have been living off of a misconception. People who have the wrong idea of exactly who they are and what kind of world they’re living in. Truth be told, I don’t blame them. How could they not be fueled by delusions when they’ve never had any reason to see their words for how meaningless they really are? How could they ever come to understand just what they’re doing wrong when they’ve never had anyone to show them? It turns out, some people have been allowed to roam free for far too long, creating this idea that they’re in control of this place. Some people believe that they’re Gods. Some believe that they’re kings. Some have fooled themselves into believing that they’re the predators, hunting whoever they feel is worthy of their wrath. These people have always existed, and they didn’t disappear when I entered the ring at Wicked Games. They were all watching. They all knew what my return meant for them, and in only a few short seconds I made my decision. I set my sights on others, whether it be Myles, Theron, Drake or Methuselah. I chose to temporarily ignore what everyone else on the roster was doing, and in doing so I allowed these delusions to prosper. I allowed egos to rise, and I allowed people to forget exactly whose world they’re really living in.

Yhwach O’Hara: I’m aware that Pain for Pride is only in a few months, and the entire roster will be looking for the opportunity to add to their legacies at the biggest event of the entire year. Some have already started crafting their paths. Some are waiting for the right opportunity, and I’m sure there are a few who don’t have the slightest idea what they’ll be doing heading into the event. I am not one of those people. I know what my path is, and I’m also aware that there are many who’d love to know just what that path is. Will it be a World Championship match? Will it be an opportunity to take back something I could already have on any given night? I’m sure the questions started even before Grand Rampage, and with time all will be revealed. Until that time comes, remember what I’ve said tonight. Remember who shaped this industry, who made the environment that exists today. There are some that won’t take that advice, I’m sure. It’ll be the people that I ignored up to this point. Those who were allowed to roam freely without having to worry about my presence. They will continue to move forward. They will keep holding onto their beliefs, their desires, and this idea that they stand on top of this company. They will see themselves as the hunter, and to them the only targets on their backs will have been placed by Elitists who never even posed a threat.

(Yhwach continues, but instead of addressing the fans, he turns towards the stage.)

Yhwach O’Hara: Those beliefs may just be your undoing.

(Yhwach stops speaking, which causes ‘SUN//EATER’ to begin playing once more. There is still a loud reaction, but many of the fans are left confused, not entirely sure what to take away from Yhwach’s words. Having said all that he needed to, Yhwach begins to walk out of the ring, maintaining the same cold stare he had on his face.)

James Peters: Well, after that I feel like we’ve been left with more questions than answers! Yhwach says that his situation with Methuselah will be dealt with eventually, but when it comes to the road for Pain for Pride… I’m really not sure what Yhwach has planned!

Rich Russillo: Whatever it is, it sounds like it’s going to be something big. If I were… Well really anybody on Voltage, I’d be a little more careful going forward. Yhwach didn’t make things very clear, but we’ve seen what he’s done for the past few months. Yhwach is dangerous, and surely he wouldn’t miss the biggest event of the entire year in Pain for Pride.

Persephone: Really? That’s… Um… That’s great! I sure hope he does have a Pain for Pride match planned instead of going away for another year! 🤞

(Yhwach is seen walking up the ramp, and as this happens Voltage begins to fade to the backstage area. At this time Sofia Clarke is seen with a microphone in her hand as well as a smile on her face. The fans cheer after seeing her, and once those cheers start to die down, Sofia begins to speak.)

Sofia Clarke: Those were some very interesting comments from Yhwach O’Hara, who seems to know exactly what he plans to do at Pain for Pride. At this time however I have a special guest with me, so ladies and gentlemen… Please welcome the woman who went to war with Samael in an Inferno Match at Grand Rampage…. MINERVA!

(The crowd explodes with cheers, and Minerva walks into the camera’s view with a smile on her face.)

Sofia Clarke: Minerva, at Grand Rampage you had to face Samael, the same man that could have severely injured you just before Tempest. What was it like facing him in something like an Inferno Match?

(It doesn’t take Minerva long at all to think of her answer, quickly beginning to speak.)

Minerva: I told Samael that I welcomed that kind of stipulation, and I’m sure it’s safe to say that I wasn’t lying. He relied on mind games to try and get to me, but what he didn’t understand, whether it was because he was incapable of it or because he didn’t want to, was that I’m not like many of his past victims. His mind games won’t scare me, they won’t even make me hesitate to live up to my words and make him regret doing what he did. I put out that challenge against Samael knowing that by the time our match was over I would have gotten revenge. Since then he tried to escalate things, but did I look out of my element in that inferno match? Did I look worried, or afraid of the flames that surrounded me? I don’t think I did. In fact, if my performance told me anything, it’s that Samael had no idea what he was up against. It was that Samael was just as oblivious as I thought he was. It was that Samael was never going to defeat me, and setting up an inferno match was him digging his own grave. From the very beginning, Samael was setting himself up for failure.

(The fans cheer, and Sofia begins to speak once again.)

Sofia Clarke: Well we are on the road to Pain for Pride. What do you think that victory over Samael did for you heading towards the end of the season?

Minerva: All that it needed to. I can acknowledge what Samael has done in the past. He is a former 24/7 Contract Holder and he has defeated some former World Champions, but ultimately I challenged him simply to set the record straight, and make sure he knows better than to try and put my career at risk again. I’d say that I accomplished that, and that’s enough for me. I was never going to be added to the list of names that he defeated, and at the same time I wouldn’t say this was a career-changing victory for me. Walking out of that match I am still just as much of a threat as I was before. I’m still one of the very best in the world, and I didn’t need that match just to prove that after the season that I’ve had. I’ve already done enough to solidify my position at the top and I’ll be here long enough to do a lot more. With this win I just sent a message, and maybe that message will go out to anyone else that thinks they can make a name for themselves by taking me out. I’m not the kind of person that goes down easily, so if you take a shot at me you will receive one in return. Difference is, you just might not get back up.

Sofia Clarke: Well with that said, I only have one more question. What’s next for Minerva?

(Minerva takes a few seconds to think, before the grin appears on her face once more.)

Minerva: To be honest, I don’t believe you’ll be finding that out right now. I know what’s next for me, and right now I’m the only person that needs to know. I’m looking forward to Pain for Pride. I’ve had so many significant victories at the event, from winning the Unified Tag Team Championships, to defending the Universal Women’s Championship, to the National Elite Championship, to the EAW World Championship, I know better than most people just how important it is to compete in a significant match at the event. So many of my biggest moments in EAW were at this event, and I know I’m not the only one that wants to keep having their name written in the history books. At an event like this more eyes will be on you than ever before, and they’ll all be waiting to see what kind of impact you’re able to make right before the season comes to an end. After all that I have done this season to further establish myself as the best EAW has to offer, I’m not going to let Pain for Pride of all shows pass without a worthwhile match for me, so you don’t have to worry about that. What I’m doing at Pain for Pride is something you all will get to learn eventually, but for now I can tell you this. What I have planned is something that nobody sees coming.

(This answer kind of surprises Sofia, but she looks impressed as she responds.)

Sofia Clarke: Well I think we’ll all be looking forward to seeing what you have in store. Thank you for your time, Minerva.

Minerva: Anytime.

(With those final words Minerva begins to walk away from the area, leaving Sofia Clarke on her own. Sofia looks back at the camera with a smile on her face, and from there Voltage begins to fade out.)

(A commercial is shown for Indeed featuring Jake Smith, who uses it to find new EAW Elitists to sign.)

(Sunday Night Voltage comes back from commercials and instead of going directly to the arena, it showed a completely different set. And after the few times that this set has been shown on television, it was clear where the show was at now. The camera begins to fade to a shot of EAW Headquarters in Newark, New Jersey. As always the camera pans around the building for a while, and afterwards the camera fades to the inside of the building, where Fight Grid Host Molly Waters is seen. She’s holding a microphone in her hands and a smile on her face, and after a few seconds she begins to speak.)

Molly Waters: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Fight Grid, your source for all news throughout the Land of Elite! I’m your host Molly Waters, coming at you tonight on Voltage for a very special presentation. The last time I showed up on your TV screens I took the time to recap the rivalries between Drake King and TLA along with Hikari Kanno and Miku Sakai more recently. So it was inevitable that we’d move onto talking about what has happened between these two amazing women, Dr. Bethany Blue and Sheridan Muller! These two have made themselves known in EAW in their own ways, with Dr. Bethany Blue arrived here as just a simple doctor with a dream, wanting to help and bring health to everyone here in EAW, and during that journey she became one of the greatest female wrestlers to cross this company, having multiple championships to her name and picking up incredible accolades along the way. While for Sheridan Muller, she was a woman who returned after her run here a few years ago, with a wish to redeem what happened before and show everyone what German Efficiency truly meant, and during her whole return she has been able to show what she is actually made of, beating the likes of established stars like The Visual Prophet and TLA, she has shown to be a valuable asset to EAW in her own way as well.

Molly Waters: And we can’t ignore how they came to be, meeting on the Dynasty brand and having a match to prove who was the best, and from there that blossomed into a friendship and alliance between the two, then afterward, the falling out that occurred when one couldn’t see eye to eye with the other and their morality, facing in a third and final match to settle the score in which happened last week. Tonight, I will do a recap between the two as well as looking back at the trilogy of matches they had between one another, showing how they were masters at their own craft when it came to wrestling. Then I will have the opportunity to conduct interviews with both women respectively to hear the thoughts that they have after their Universal Women’s Championship match at Grand Rampage. You have heard enough from me now, I hope all of you enjoy the recap and the interviews, let’s get right to it!

(The first recap was of Sheridan and Bethany’s first match, the Fight Pit match at Reckless Wiring. It was the first encounter between the two women and the one that would spark the trilogy, it was a brutal match to say the least between the them as they gave it their all trying to knock out or submit the other, Bethany’s kidneys being targeted and Sheridan trying to weaken her there, Bethany trying to use her technical skills to try and trap Sheridan, it was hard hitting action that ended with an incredibly risky move from the doctor. The two climbed toward the top of the cage and onto the platform, and after a Code Blue to weaken Sheridan, Bethany hit the Flatline from the top of the platform and spiked Sheridan in the mat with the Sitout Piledriver. It was then that she locked in the Mandible Claw and it was 1-0 for Bethany.)

(The second match happened initially against their own will at Wicked Games, but formed into a test of not just who was the better competitor, but of their friendship as the Unified Tag Team Champions at the time were forced to fight in a 30 Minute Iron Woman Match. For the second bout, Sheridan and Bethany were completely even the entire match, they read one another like a book after their last match and the experience that they had teaming with one another, no matter how many signatures or finishers they could throw at each other, they were never able to keep each other down and even attempt to get a point on the board. With time running out, they were incredibly desperate, trying to take each one down with submissions, and finally in one crucial move, as Bethany was going for The Flatline, Sheridan was able to reverse it and hit Bethany with the Sherplex, followed up by Endless Fantasies. And just like that, Sheridan’s arm fell right on top of Bethany and she was able to get one point just before the timer ran out. 1-1 for Sheridan, the two were at a standstill.)

(So in the final match, after losing the Unified Tag Team Championships and their friendship falling out, it was time for the trilogy to end at Grand Rampage, in a MMA Rules match. 5 rounds, they could win either by knockout, submission or judge’s decision. The first few rounds were mostly calm, where the two simply conserved energy and strategized on what they were going to do next. But in the third and fourth round it got incredibly interesting, because after wearing each other out with strikes and submissions, Sheridan and Bethany at different points were close to making the other tapping out, but the rounds ended just before they could. And so in the 5th round, they went all out, they threw the strongest moves they had in their arsenal to keep each other down or tap them out, but no matter what, neither of them were willing to give up. At the last few seconds, as Sheridan went for the Endless Fantasies, Bethany hit Sheridan right on with the Code Blue, as the heart punch followed by a right straight into Sheridan’s face ended with her completely limp on the mat. 2-1 for Bethany. The doctor wins the trilogy.)

(After the highlight reel had come to a close, the camera then goes to the backstage area of TD Garden, pre-recorded footage during Night Two of Grand Rampage. It was a few minutes after the Universal Women’s Championship match was over, and Dr. Bethany Blue was getting checked on by medical personnel, making sure she didn’t suffer any injuries during the match she had with Sheridan. Bethany sat there on one of the production crates with a calm but proud expression on her face, why wouldn’t she be happy after all? She was able to successfully defend the Universal Women’s Championship against one of her fiercest rivals after an incredibly tough match. She grabbed her Championship and looked down at it for a few moments before suddenly, the medical personnel finished and stepped away, as all of the sudden Molly Waters appeared with a microphone and a cameraman.)

Molly Waters: Bethany, congratulations on your win and retaining the Universal Women’s Championship. Would you mind if I asked you some questions for an interview?

(Bethany quickly put the Championship against her shoulder and calmly rested against the wall, getting comfortable before letting out a small smile and speaking up.)

Dr. Bethany Blue: Thank you, and of course, I am all ears, go ahead.

Molly Waters: Thank you very much! Now then, just a few minutes ago you were able to successfully defend the Universal Women’s Championship against the challenger Sheridan Muller. It was an incredibly tough affair that put everybody at the edge of their seats as each round finished, but in the end you were able to get the last punch in and come out on top as the winner. I assume you must have put a lot of effort into every match that you have had against Sheridan, so now that everything is done, what are your current thoughts after the match and the trilogy you had against Sheridan?

Dr. Bethany Blue: Honestly? I won’t take away from the woman, through my entire career here in EAW? She is probably one of the toughest competitors I have ever faced, hands down. And I am not lying when I said that she was going to be one of my biggest threats to the Championship I am holding right now, and she showed me and everybody else that she indeed was a threat to not take lightly. It is kind of… emotional in a sense, sitting here holding the Universal Women’s Championship, again. I have never forgotten the journey that we had to go through at the end to get here. When I first met Sheridan I just thought she was another woman who wanted to take away the spot that I earned and give it to herself, as I said previously, I was always a fan of Sheridan when I was in training to become a wrestler. Seeing her matches in her original run here in the company and taking nothing for granted, but I remembered her being the kind of person who thought the world revolved around her, who wanted all of the fame and fortune for herself, basically just like most of the selfish and incredibly annoying women who have entered through the doors of the company. So when I saw her make her return and gun straight for me in the first place, I had a feeling I was going to end up facing the same kind of woman I have been facing most of my career here for a thousand times before, but no… that is not what happened at all.

Dr. Bethany Blue: I was kind of shocked by that twist of events after all, because we had a match together against The Golden Guns and instead of being victim to the gods of the “can they co-exist” matches, I decided to take a step forward and have a conversation with Sheridan. Actually get to know her and see what she was about, and we got to connect in some kind of way. I learned what kind of woman she truly was, she showed me she changed from the kind of woman she was before and I don’t know. I felt happy to know her, and even after that tag match we had, and where we fought in the Fight Pit. That kind of feeling and respect we grew for each other never left, in fact, it ended up growing tenfold after our match because we were able to understand what we truly wanted to do and show here in EAW, and so it was inevitable that we would end up teaming together and becoming what was known as The Prescription. We went and won the Unified Tag Team Championships as well and it was almost like things were starting to click in a sense once again. I got to talk to Sheridan a lot more due to that partnership and I felt like I could trust her more than before. I actually considered her a friend to rely on and to tell the truth to, it has been a while since I could say that about someone here other than Adam. But after we were forced to fight again and Sheridan took the win this time, something changed after what happened, she started bragging about that, saying indirect insults, and the fact that she ended up going behind my back and challenging for the Universal Women’s Championship just like that? I did not understand at all, and then finally, we ended up losing to Soul Food Sunday, and well, the beautiful thing that we tried to build ended up crumbling down. I guess it just wasn’t meant to be after all. It saddens me that we ended up falling out like that. I wish things could have gone better, but what can you really do? By this point, I sit here happy, I am glad that I have dusted my hands with Sheridan for good and I have her behind me. I have retained my Championship, I have won the MMA rules match, and now I have the opportunity to main event Pain for Pride for the first time. I am more than satisfied at this moment.

Molly Waters: And what do you think is next for you, Dr. Bethany Blue?

Dr. Bethany Blue: Fighting Spirit is in two weeks, right? It is taking place in my hometown of Miami, Florida and you best believe I am going to defend my Championship there, it doesn’t matter what kind of opponent ends up stepping up to me and challenging me, for it is only right that I both return to and leave my home with the Universal Women’s Championship, and you heard that right from Dr. Bethany Blue, U.W.C!

(And of course she did the little hand signs when saying UWC.)

Molly Waters: Thank you for answering my questions, Dr. Bethany Blue!

Dr. Bethany Blue: The pleasure is all mine.

(It was then that Dr. Bethany Blue’s interview ended and it changed now towards a simple set up in a room, with two leather chairs and a table in the middle between them, as two people walked over and sat down on the chairs, in one chair Molly Waters and in the other obviously, it was Sheridan Muller. Her expression as usual showed one of calmness and seriousness, but even though it didn’t show, it was clear she wasn’t as thrilled as Bethany due to the result of their match.)

Molly Waters: Thank you for coming here for the interview, Sheridan!

Sheridan Muller: No problem, it is what I do.

Molly Waters: So coming off Grand Rampage and your match against Dr. Bethany Blue, you weren’t able to capture the Universal Women’s Championship, but after the countless wars of words and countless fights you had against Bethany, what are your current thoughts after the match and the trilogy you had against her?

(Sheridan’s expression can only turn into one of disappointment as she let out a small sigh and quickly spoke up.)

Sheridan Muller: Saying I am frustrated would be the understatement of the century. I wanted to become the champion of the world, an ambassador for women like me who rose from nothing to become something, it was a selfish request but one with a good motivation behind it, isn’t that what everybody here wants? To become a Champion and be respected among your peers? For being able to achieve what others haven’t been able to do? I always wanted to capture that kind of prize and usher in a new age, I learned throughout the years and as a person that I am not really one to be one of luxury. I am not the woman who you would look at first and think she is a stereotypical superstar, there isn’t any kind of narrative like that about me, I am not obsessed with being on posters and being gifted every championship in existence, my focus has always been being considered one of the best in that ring, and the focus hasn’t weakened at all ever since I have arrived here. I have always treated wrestling as a sport, and the Universal Women’s Championship was one of the beacons to show that you were indeed one of the best to ever grace the mat, and having to fail once again in that objective I have been fighting for quite some time? It brings down the motivation of even the strongest warriors that have been born on this planet, and the fact that in the process of reaching that objective I ended up…losing someone I considered close? Hm. It does make you think honestly.

Sheridan Muller: Bethany will always be one of the toughest competitors I have ever faced in my entire wrestling career, she has brought me fight like no others have done to me before, and the friendship that we had before the fallout was nice as well our respect for each other ended up growing with every match, with every punch we threw at each other, even though we were able to become Unified Tag Team Championships, become one of the strongest teams in EAW history in quite a while. I am not sure with how things have gone on, with the decisions that I took and that Bethany took herself, I am not exactly sure now if we were destined to be friends in the first place or simply just… to fight forever. But we ended up taking our stands, maybe some bridges were burned in the process and sadly, I am the one who ended up coming worse off it, after everything that I went through both with Bethany and in that match, it is not a surprise I am beat up… who knew the doctor could pack that kind of punch?

(Sheridan said letting out a small smirk in the process as Molly slowly spoke up.)

Molly Waters: And what do you think is next for Sheridan Muller?

Sheridan Muller: I was asked this same question a few months ago, my response was that I didn’t know what my next step was. And the answer that I have currently for that is… that I have an idea. It is going to be Pain for Pride season and I will be making sure I have a spot on the show no matter what, even if it isn’t as the Universal Women’s Champion, so… I plan to put myself in that Ultimate Opportunity Match at Fighting Spirit to get into the Cash in the Vault match, that is the first idea that I have. It is a bitter pill to swallow losing the way that I have done and having to course correct my plan for being in Pain for Pride due to not holding that title going into the event, but I will move forward and find a way to get what I want. Have a good day.

(It was then that Sheridan suddenly stood up out of her chair and walked away without any more words to say and with a new focus towards Pain for Pride. It was then that the segment faded to black on that final interview and the show returned back to where Voltage was taking place.)

(Voltage returns to ringside, and Bella Braxton is seen with a microphone.)

Bella Braxton: Ladies and gentlemen… The following contest is scheduled for ONE FALL!!!

Crowd: ONE FALL!!!!

(‘Ambitionz az a Ridah’ by Tupac hits, and the crowd explodes with cheers as TLA makes his way to the stage, confident as he usually is and seemingly ready for this upcoming Voltage match. TLA takes a few seconds to admire the positive crowd, before finally beginning to make his way down the ramp and towards the ring.)

Bella Braxton: Introducing first… From Tlaxcala, Mexico… Weighing in at 210 pounds… TTTTTT!!!! LLLLL!!!! AAAAAAA!!!!!

James Peters: TLA is out here, and while he may have come up short at Grand Rampage, we all know just how amazing of a competitor he really is. There is no doubt that he will bounce back and find his road to Pain for Pride, and that just might start tonight.

Rich Russillo: TLA is about to take on Miku Sakai, and I have to say that a match like this is definitely a fitting main event match for the show. These are two very talented Elitists, so this match definitely won’t disappoint!

(‘Brooklyn The Hole’ by Miku Sakai hits as TLA waits inside of the ring, and as the fans begin to boo, Miku Sakai walks out with a microphone in her hand. She has a smirk on her face, ignoring the booing fans as she begins singing her own song, making her way down to the ring as she displays the same confidence she has become known for.)

Bella Braxton: And his opponent… From Fukui, Japan… Weighing in at 110 pounds… MMMIIIIIIIKKUUUUU SSSAAAAKKAAIIIIIIII!!!!!!

James Peters: Miku Sakai is preparing for a match that ultimately will serve as a qualifier for the Cash in the Vault ladder match, and with this in mind I don’t think I need to explain why Miku would want to win a match like this.

Rich Russillo: You’re right about that one. This win could definitely give Miku some great momentum, but that’s if she actually gets it. After all, her opponent is literally a Hall of Famer.

(Ding! Ding! Ding!)

James Peters: Here we go! TLA and Miku start circling the ring, and it looks like TLA is looking for a collar and elbow tie up maybe- BUT MIKU KICKS TLA IN THE MIDSECTION BEFORE BEGINNING TO PUNCH AWAY AT HIM, TAKING ADVANTAGE EARLY ON! Miku is the smaller competitor here and we all know she has no problem getting her hands dirty! Miku backing TLA up into the corner with these strikes, BUT AS SHE GOES FOR ANOTHER KICK TO THE MIDSECTION, TLA IS ABLE TO CATCH HER BOOT BEFORE SHOVING HER AWAY! BOTH ELITISTS CHARGE AT EACH OTHER-

Rich Russillo: BUT TLA LEAPS OVER MIKU! MIKU TURNS AROUND, AND TLA CATCHES HER WITH A HIP TOSS THAT FORCES HER TO RETREAT, ROLLING OUT OF THE RING TO COLLECT HERSELF! I don’t think TLA plans to give her that much time to act though, AS HE RUNS IN AND DELIVERS A SUICIDE DIVE, NOT EVEN NEEDING TO BOUNCE OFF OF THE ROPES TO PICK UP SPEED! TLA may be the larger competitor here but he is still extremely athletic and one of our greatest high flying Elitists! Miku may be forced to learn that the hard way as TLA sends her back into the ring!

Persephone: TLA heads up to the top rope before diving- AND MIKU QUICKLY RUNS TOWARDS TLA TO KNOCK HIM OFF OF THE TOP ROPE, BUT TLA IS QUICK ENOUGH TO DIVE OFF OF THE TOP ROPE AND ROLL BACK TO HIS FEET BEFORE SHE COULD STRIKE! TLA NOW RUNNING IN- BUT MIKU SAKAI SLIDES UNDER TLA BEFORE JUMPING UP AND CONNECTING WITH A DROPKICK, SENDING TLA INTO THE TURNBUCKLES! Creative counter by Miku, AND NOW MIKU RUNS IN BEFORE JUMPING ONTO TLA- SENDING HIM TO THE MIDDLE OF THE RING WITH A MONKEY FLIP!

James Peters: Miku looks confident as always right now as she rushes towards TLA, BOUNCING OFF OF THE ROPES BEFORE CONNECTING WITH A KNEE DROP! Miku now with a quick pin, but TLA kicks out before the referee could even get into position! Miku was clearly just testing TLA, and now she applies a grounded headlock to keep the larger Elitist down, knowing that allowing TLA to get back into this could be a huge problem for her! Not only is TLA the larger Elitist, but he has a wrestling style that could even compete with Miku’s own high flying maneuvers!

Rich Russillo: Well Miku’s attempt to keep this match grounded might have been for nothing, as TLA is pushing himself back up to his feet! TLA is up to a knee already, AND HE LANDS A PUNCH TO THE MIDSECTION BEFORE GETTING BACK TO BOTH FEET! MIKU STILL HAS THE HEADLOCK APPLIED, BUT TLA LOOKS TO CHANGE THAT AS HE LIFTS HER UP FOR A BACK SUPLEX- NO! IT DOESN’T CONNECT, MIKU WAS ABLE TO FLIP OUT OF TLA’S GRASP AND LAND ON HER FEET! Miku now taking TLA’S leg out with a chop block, dropping him to a knee! Miku now running the ropes-

Persephone: AND MIKU WENT FOR A LARIAT BUT TLA DUCKED UNDER IT BEFORE JUMPING UP BEHIND MIKU, TAKING HER DOWN WITH A REVERSE BULLDOG! TLA gets back up, and it looks like he is waiting for Miku to get back up to her feet! Miku stumbles into the corner, AND NOW TLA RUNS IN BEFORE CONNECTING WITH A RUNNING DROPKICK! TLA GETS UP BEFORE SENDING MIKU OUT OF THE CORNER WITH A SNAPMARE, AND NOW TLA RUNS THE ROPES BEFORE DELIVERING A PENALTY KICK! Miku holds her face before stumbling onto the middle rope, and I don’t think she wants to be right there!

James Peters: TLA BEGINS RUNNING THE ROPES AS MIKU IS IN PERFECT POSITION, AND HE GOES FOR 305- BUT MIKU WAS ABLE TO GET OUT OF THE WAY, DUCKING UNDER AND ROLLING OUT OF THE RING SO TLA COULDN’T HIT THE MOVE! TLA lands on the apron, AND NOW MIKU PULLS TLA’S LEGS OUT FROM UNDER HIM, CAUSING TLA TO FALL FACE FIRST INTO THE HARDEST PART OF THE RING! That was a rough landing for TLA, AND NOW MIKU MAKES THINGS WORSE AS SHE SHOVED TLA FACE FIRST INTO THE RING POST!

Rich Russillo: NO! TLA stopped himself, AND HE HITS MIKU WITH A BACK ELBOW AS SHE APPROACHED HIM! TLA now slamming Miku’s face into the ring post, causing Miku to drop to the ground! The referee is still counting and TLA knows this, meaning he needs to get both himself and Miku back into the ring! TLA now grabbing Miku to pick her up- WAIT A SECOND, WAIT A SECOND! CAT SCRATCH FEVER, MIKU IS CLAWING AT TLA’S EYES AND THE REFEREE DIDN’T KNOW BECAUSE SHE IS ON THE GROUND! TLA BACKS UP HOLDING HIS FACE IN PAIN, AND NOW MIKU LOOKS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE!

Persephone: Miku sends TLA into the ring, and TLA still doesn’t really know where he is because of Miku clawing at his eyes! He pushes himself up to a knee- AND MIKU KNOCKS HIM BACKWARDS WITH A RUNNING KNEE, CAUSING TLA TO STUMBLE INTO A SEATED POSITION IN THE CORNER OF THE RING! MIKU NOW RUNNING INTO THE OPPOSITE CORNER, AND IT LOOKS LIKE SHE HAS SOMETHING IN MIND AS TLA STILL SHOULDN’T BE ABLE TO SEE A THING! MIKU STARTS CHARGING IN, AND SHE JUMPS RIGHT AT TLA FOR THE MUSTACHE RIDE!!

James Peters: NO, IT DOESN’T CONNECT! IT LOOKS LIKE TLA WAS ABLE TO SEE ENOUGH TO JUMP OUT OF THE WAY, CAUSING MIKU TO CRASH RIGHT INTO THE TURNBUCKLES! BOTH ELITISTS RUSH BACK TO THEIR FEET- AND TLA CATCHES MIKU WITH A CARTEL KICK OUT OF NOWHERE, CAUSING MIKU TO STUMBLE AND FALL RIGHT BACK ONTO THE MIDDLE ROPE! TLA DOESN’T WASTE ANY TIME RUNNING THE ROPES, CONNECTING WITH THE 305!!!! TLA FOLLOWS IT UP WITH A SPRINGBOARD SPLASH, AND NOW THERE’S THE COVER TO PUT THIS MATCH AWAY AS TLA HOOKS THE LEGS!

ONE!
TWO!!
THREE-

Rich Russillo: MIKU IS BARELY ABLE TO GET THE SHOULDER UP!! Those were two of the best moves TLA had to offer and somehow Miku was able to survive! Of course, we have to remember that this woman is a former Specialists Champion and Empress of Elite finalists, she has always been very talented in her own right. TLA doesn’t plan to let that stop him from picking up a victory though, as he quickly heads up to the top rope while Miku is still down! TLA now in position, AND HE DIVES OFF THE TOP ROPE, LOOKING FOR BURNOUT!!!

Persephone: MIKU MOVED OUT OF THE WAY!!! MIKU BARELY MANAGED TO GET OUT OF HARM’S WAY, SAVING HERSELF FROM A MOVE THAT REALLY COULD HAVE ENDED THE MATCH! Man… This match could have been over right now… Of course, it’s not like I want it to end or anything, so I’m glad that she got out of the way! It looks like she is grabbing onto the ropes to try and get back up while TLA is hurting, but I’m not entirely sure what she could have planned right now. Those were two big moves, she’s clearly not going to be at her one hundred percent right now.

James Peters: TLA starts getting back up, BUT BEFORE HE COULD COMPLETELY RETURN TO HIS FEET, MIKU DROPS HIM WITH A SUNSET FLIP BOMB, FOLLOWED BY A PIN!!!

ONE!
TWO!!

James Peters: TLA kicks out, and Miku doesn’t look too happy about that one! Miku immediately begins punching and elbowing away at TLA, just looking to inflict whatever damage she possibly can at this point! TLA has never been the kind of competitor to fall easily, and Miku is seeing just how tough defeating this man truly is as that move was not enough!

Rich Russillo: TLA shoves Miku off of him before getting back up, AND MIKU LOOKS FOR ANOTHER KNEE- BUT TLA AVOIDS IT BEFORE GRABBING MIKU FROM BEHIND! TIGER SUPLEX!!! TLA CONNECTS WITH W TIGER SUPLEX, DROPPING MIKU POSSIBLY ONTO THE BACK OF HER HEAD, AND NOW MIKU JUST STUMBLES BACKWARDS RIGHT INTO THE CORNER OF THE RING! That one opening was all TLA needed to get back into this match, and now Miku Sakai is once again the one in trouble as TLA seems to be setting up for something! Whatever it is can’t be good, as he quickly backs up to the far corner of the ring!

Persephone: TLA CHARGES IN, AND HE GOES FOR THE VERY MEXICAN UPPERCUT- BUT MIKU GOT OUT OF THE WAY, CAUSING TLA TO CRASH AND HIT THE TURNBUCKLES SO HARD THAT HE DROPS DOWN ONTO THE MAT! TLA IS ONCE AGAIN IN A SEATED POSITION IN THE CORNER, AND NOW MIKU WASTES NO TIME RUNNING IN AS SHE SEES THIS AS HER OPPORTUNITY TO STRIKE! MUSTACHE RIDE!! MUSTACHE RIDE CONNECTS, AND NOW MIKU QUICKLY DRAGS TLA OUT OF THE CORNER BEFORE HOOKING THE LEGS TO FINALLY END THIS MATCH!

ONE!
TWO!!
THRE-

James Peters: TLA GETS THE SHOULDER UP!! TLA SURVIVES, THIS MATCH IS NOT OVER JUST YET AND MIKU ISN’T HAPPY ABOUT THAT, NOT ONE BIT! Now it’s Miku Sakai that’s headed up to the top rope, and I’m not entirely sure what she could have planned at this stage of the match, but it can’t be good at all for TLA! As amazing as it is that he survived Miku’s offense so far, it might end up being for nothing! It all depends on whatever Miku has planned right now as she waits up on the top rope!

Rich Russillo: TLA is slowly pushing himself back up to his feet, meanwhile Miku is still waiting! That must mean that she needs TLA to be standing for whatever it is she has planned, and with that in mind I think there’s a good chance I know exactly what it is she’s setting up for! TLA has finally made it back to his feet, but he’s hurt and doesn’t really know where he is right now! TLA is on spaghetti legs, AND IT LOOKS LIKE THIS IS MIKU’S TIME TO DIVE, AS SHE FLIES OFF THE TOP ROPE! WALK OF SHAME BY MIKU SAKAI-

James Peters: NO! TLA STOPPED MIKU! HE MANAGED TO HOLD ONTO HER BEFORE THE CORKSCREW CUTTER COULD CONNECT, AND NOW TLA TOSSES MIKU OVER HIS HEAD WITH A GERMAN SUPLEX!! MIKU COULDN’T FLIP OUT OF THAT ONE AFTER BEING CAUGHT BY SURPRISE, AND IT LOOKS LIKE THESE TWO ARE IN A SIMILAR POSITION AS THEY’VE BOTH BROUGHT THEIR BEST AND FAILED TO PUT THIS MATCH AWAY! TLA is rushing over to Miku though, making sure that he is able to put this one away! TLA grabs Miku by the arm before picking her up, AND NOW HE SENDS HER INTO THE ROPES WITH AN IRISH WHIP!

Rich Russillo: MIKU GRABS ONTO THE ROPES THOUGH, STOPPING HERSELF FROM BOUNCING OFF OF THEM AND FALLING INTO TLA’S GRASP! TLA now running in to try and make up for this, but Miku is able to lift TLA over her head, sending TLA out onto the apron! TLA very well could have fallen out to ringside entirely, but he was able to grab onto the apron and catch himself, preventing what could have been a very nasty fall! Close call by TLA, who really bailed himself out there with that landing!

Persephone: Don’t give him too much credit, he’s not out of the clear just yet! Miku turns and swings at TLA, BUT TLA DUCKS UNDER IT BEFORE HITTING MIKU WITH A FOREARM, CAUSING HER TO STUMBLE BACK! TLA NOW WITH A SPRINGBOARD CLOTHESLINE- WAIT NO! MIKU SAKAI WITH A DROPKICK, TAKING TLA RIGHT OUT OF THE SKY AS HE WASN’T ABLE TO PROTECT HIMSELF FROM MIKU’S BOOTS! That counter really helped Miku out there, and now she’s yelling at TLA, telling him to get back up to his feet as she somehow has yet another big move in mind!

James Peters: TLA slowly uses the ropes to get back up before turning around… CU- NO! TLA CATCHES MIKU AND HOLDS HER UP, BEFORE POPPING MIKU UP ONTO HIS SHOULDERS AND DROPPING HER WITH A SITOUT POWERBOMB!!! INCREDIBLE MOVE BY TLA, AND NOW HE HOLDS MIKU FOR THE COVER, LOOKING TO PUT THIS MATCH AWAY!

ONE!
TWO!!
THREE-

James Peters: WHAT!? MIKU SAKAI JUST KICKED OUT!!! MIKU SAKAI ONCE AGAIN IS ABLE TO SURVIVE, AND AT THIS POINT YOU JUST HAVE TO WONDER WHAT IT WILL TAKE TO KEEP EITHER OF THESE TWO COMPETITORS DOWN! Nothing has worked, what a match this has been so far!

Rich Russillo: TLA slowly pulls himself back to his feet, and this has clearly been a tough match. Miku Sakai returned before Tempest, and since then she has already re-established herself as a threat. TLA however has been here even while Miku was out, and he has definitely had a good season for himself so far. This may just be a match between two Elitists who want momentum, but in the end it may just come down to “who wants it more” as TLA is slowly beginning to drag Miku back up! What does he have in mind right now??

Persephone: IT LOOKS LIKE TLA MAY BE TRYING TO GET MIKU IN POSITION FOR THE MEXICAN DESTROYER- BUT MIKU DOESN’T LET THAT HAPPEN SO EASILY! SHE RUNS INTO THE CORNER OF THE RING, CAUSING TLA TO CRASH BACK FIRST INTO THE TURNBUCKLES! Miku pulls herself away from TLA, AND NOW SHE HITS HIM WITH A FOREARM! A SECOND ONE NOW, AND A THIRD ONE! MIKU HITS TLA WITH REPEATED FOREARMS CAUSING THE REFEREE TO START COUNTING, ALTHOUGH PERSONALLY I THINK MIKU SHOULD KEEP GOING JUST TO BE SAFE!

Referee: ONE! TWO! THREE! FOUR! FIV-

James Peters: Miku lets go of TLA- AND TLA IMMEDIATELY RESPONDS WITH A RIGHT HAND! It looks like those forearms did damage, just not enough as TLA is still in this one! TLA now pulling Miku into a front facelock before lifting her up for a suplex- BUT MIKU DROPS DOWN BEHIND TLA, BEFORE RAKING HIS BACK! TLA IS IN PAIN AND MIKU LOOKS TO CAPITALIZE AS SHE KICKS TLA’S LEG OUT FROM UNDER HIM! TLA DROPS TO A KNEE AND NOW MIKU RUNS THE ROPES, LOOKING TO DROP TLA WITH A KNEE LIFT- WHICH TLA IS ABLE TO AVOID!

Rich Russillo: TLA SWEEPS MIKU’S LEGS BEFORE LOOKING FOR A DOUBLE FOOT STOMP- AND MIKU IS ABLE TO ROLL OUT OF THE WAY BEFORE IT COULD CONNECT! MIKU GETS BACK UP AS TLA TURNS AROUND AND RUNS IN- AND MIKU GETS THE BOOT UP, BEFORE RUNNING IN AND TAKING TLA OUT WITH A RUNNING BLOCKBUSTER! What a huge move by Sakai, though at this point what you really need to start wondering is how much these two really have left. They haven’t slowed down much in this match, despite hitting each other with some major moves! At this point, they can’t have much left.

Persephone: Well I guess we’re gonna see about that soon enough! Right now Miku is in control, and she’s definitely trying to put this match away… I think. Instead of going for the cover she just dragged TLA back up to his feet, SENDING HIM INTO THE CORNER BEFORE CONNECTING WITH A HIP ATTACK! It looks like Miku wants to do even more damage before putting this one away, AS SHE NOW HITS TLA WITH A BACK ELBOW, BEFORE TURNING AROUND AND HITTING HIM WITH A FOREARM! Miku finally pulls TLA out of the corner, AND NOW SHE GOES FOR AN IRISH WHIP TOWARDS THE ROPES!

James Peters: TLA IS ABLE TO FIND THE COUNTER TO THIS THOUGH, TURNING IT AROUND AND SENDING MIKU INTO THE ROPES INSTEAD! MIKU BOUNCES OFF OF THE ROPES, AND TLA RUNS IN BEFORE HITTING A SPINNING BACK ELBOW OF HIS OWN, TAKING MIKU’S HEAD OFF! Miku Sakai wasn’t expecting that at all, and clearly that was the experience of TLA coming into play there! Miku Sakai stumbles back to her feet, but she’s really not in good shape at this point! I think TLA is looking to finish this match up as he goes to grab Miku-

Rich Russillo: NO! MIKU SHOVES TLA AWAY, AND I THINK THAT MAY HAVE BEEN PURELY OUT OF DESPERATION BUT IT STILL SAVED HER CHANCES IN THIS ONE! MIKU CONNECTS WITH AN ENZUIGIRI AS TLA IS NOW ON SPAGHETTI LEGS, GIVING HER A HUGE OPPORTUNITY HERE AS SHE LOOKS TO CAPITALIZE! MIKU TURNS AND SPRINGBOARDS OFF OF THE MIDDLE ROPE- RIGHT INTO A VERY MEXICAN UPPERCUT!!!! THE VERY MEXICAN UPPERCUT CONNECTS, AND THAT ONE DEFINITELY KNOCKED MIKU’S LIGHTS OUT AS SHE IS LIFELESS INSIDE OF THE RING, DOWN AND OUT RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SQUARED CIRCLE!

Persephone: TLA is barely even able to stand, but I think he knows just as well as the rest of us that Miku is done for. TLA is slowly pulling himself out to the apron, and I don’t know why but I think he’s actually headed up to the top rope! Personally I think TLA should have just gone for the cover, but maybe that’s just me. Either way TLA is headed up top, and to his credit Miku actually hasn’t even moved an inch since TLA dropped her with that uppercut. Maybe he actually knows what he’s doing.

James Peters: Well if anyone would know what they’re doing, it’s definitely TLA! TLA is perched up top, AND NOW HE DIVES OFF THE TOP ROPE ONCE MORE, LOOKING TO PUT MIKU AWAY WITH BURNOUT!! IT CONNECTS!!! TLA LANDS RIGHT ON TOP OF MIKU!!

Rich Russillo: WAIT, WAIT A SECOND!!!! HE DID LAND ON MIKU, BUT MORE SPECIFICALLY HE LANDED ON HER KNEES!!! MIKU MANAGED TO GET THE KNEES UP, CATCHING TLA BY SURPRISE AS HE LANDED BACK FIRST ONTO THEM!!! TLA HOLDS HIS BACK AS HE STARTS TO GET BACK UP- AND MIKU QUICKLY PULLS HIM DOWN WITH A SCHOOL BOY!!! NOT LIKE THIS!

ONE!
TWO!!

James Peters: SHE’S GOT THE TIGHTS! MIKU’S GOT THE TIGHTS!

THREE!!!

(Ding! Ding! Ding!)

(Miku Sakai immediately rolls out of the ring, and TLA gets back to his feet, in complete disbelief over what just happened. ‘Brooklyn The Hole’ hits, but the fans are booing over it as Miku backpedals up the ramp with a huge grin on her face.)

Bella Braxton: Here is your winner… MMIIIIIIIIKKUUUUUUU SSSAAAAKKAAIIIIII!!!!!

James Peters: SHE STOLE IT! MIKU STOLE THE WIN BY GRABBING THE TIGHTS, AND THE REFEREE CAN’T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT NOW!

Rich Russillo: Well that’s a shame. This was turning into a really good match and Miku Sakai stole it with that roll up! She even grabbed the tights, though to her credit, it’s still TLA. She just got a huge win, and whether we like it or not that can’t be denied!

Persephone: The match would have been better if it was shorter in my opinion. Besides that, I don’t really have a problem with anything that happened here. Good job Miku.

James Peters: I can’t believe how things turned out here tonight! Of course like Rich said, it’s still a major win that deserves to be recognized. With that said, congratulations, Miku Sakai!

(Miku Sakai is laughing about the way things played out, holding her own arms up as TLA is talking with the referee, who explains that he unfortunately can’t do anything now that the match is over. As Miku Sakai celebrates her victory, Voltage fades away from ringside and into a commercial break.)

(Voltage returns from its final break. The camera shows a packed house in Devonshire Parish, Bermuda, who collectively cheer as ‘Self Help Tape’ by Moses Sumney blares throughout the arena, and Captain Charisma exits the curtain, playing to the crowd, who he looks out at with a smirk on his face, taking in the reaction he’s received before continuing his walk down to the ring, taking time to high five, and point at fans.)

James Peters: Well, Captain Charisma is here, and I’ve been told he has a special announcement.

Persephone: Hopefully, the announcement is quick, because like everyone else, I’m excited to hear it, and totally don’t just want to head home already. 😃

Rich Russillo: There’s been a lot of rumors, and speculations about what the announcement is, but bottom line: the only person who knows that is Captain Charisma, who has kept the cards close to his chest.

James Peters: Maybe it’s a new Championship.

Rich Russillo: Getting introduced this late? It’s got to be a new match for Fighting Spirit, or even Pain for Pride.

James Peters: I know, it’s got to be-

Persephone: Will you two shut up, and let him reveal it. Thanks! 😃

James Peters: :mjpls:

(Captain Charisma enters the ring, and poses on the middle rope before dropping down, and sticking his head through the middle rope, requesting and getting a microphone from a crew member. Captain Charisma walks to the center of the ring, and slowly paces back-and-forth with a smirk on his face.)

Captain Charisma: Did everyone enjoy the show?

Crowd: YES! YES! YES! YES! YES!

Captain Charisma: :mjgrin: Well, I’m glad to hear it, but it only gets better from here, because we are on the road to Pain for Pride 16!

(This prompts cheers from the audience.)

Captain Charisma: During this time, every competitor is looking to up their game, and earn a spot on the card. But as for myself, Kennedy Street, and Tyrone Montgomery, were looking to one up each other. As Pain for Pride 16 inches closer, along with the end of this season, each one of us would like to go out, knowing they had the best weekly show. Well, with my upcoming… changes to Voltage, I might’ve ensured victory in that aspect. Now, you’re probably asking yourself “Captain Charisma, what are said changes?” Well, before I spill the beans, I have it under good authority that you’re all going to love it, and what it means for the future of Voltage as a whole. Here’s a hint… it has to do with our broadcast team.

Persephone: YES! NOW, THATS WORTH AN ANNOUNCEMENT! FINALLY, RICH AND JAMES ARE GETTING FIRED!

James Peters: :wtf:

Rich Russillo: :picard:

(Captain Charisma leans over the ropes, staring directly at the commentary table, amused at Persphone’s reaction.)

Captain Charisma: No, Persephone, I’m not firing James, Rich, or you for that matter.

(The crowd boos at the last part, wanting Persephone to be fired most. Captain Charisma tries hiding his amusement at this, and walks back to the center of the ring.)

Persephone: How dare this crowd want me to get fired?

James Peters: Isn’t that what you did to us?

Persephone: Not the same, James, both you and Rich actually deserve it.

James Peters: :madstare:

Captain Charisma: I am not firing anyone at the broadcast booth. I think everyone there… well, almost everyone there does an impeccable job at calling the action. But instead of firing a member from the broadcast team, I’m actually ADDING a member to the broadcast team.

Persephone: Great. Means I’ll have to share the table with another idiot.

Captain Charisma: You all should know this person very well. Matter of fact, they’re an EAW Hall of Famer, and I came across them again very recently, which gave me a chance to approach them with a business opportunity. But enough beating around the bush, I can already sense the anticipation in finding out who it is. So, without further ado, ladies and gentlemen, please welcome… the newest addition to the Voltage commentary team… EAW Hall of Famer… REX MCALLISTER!

Persephone: https://images-ext-1.discordapp.net/external/TZJv9t3gzoKgEwVI9AJ5UxV93tbgBZt0fuszixWAGPE/https/media.tenor.com/Y-xSg35hfzgAAAPo/shookt-shocked.mp4

(Persephone has fainted in her chair, which tips on its back as “Stronger (salü Remix)” by The Score plays to a thunderous reaction from fans as Rex McAllistar makes his way down to the ring, walking more gingerly while high fiving fans, and wearing a suit to reflect his new position new, looking like he fits right in with the commentary team.)

Rich Russillo: I CAN’T BELIEVE IT! REX MCALLISTAR IS BACK ON VOLTAGE, AND… TO COMMENTATE!

James Peters: WHO WOULDVE EXPECTED THIS?!

Rich Russillo: CERTAINLY NOT ME, NOT ANYONE IN THIS ARENA, AND DEFINITELY NOT PERSEPHONE, WHO HASN’T MOVED SINCE SHE FAINTED IN HER CHAIR! …should we call someone?

James Peters: Nah, leave her there for right now. :mjgrin:

Rich Russillo: Alright… REGARDLESS, REX MCALLISTAR IS IN THE BUILDING! WE SAW HIM AT GRAND RAMPAGE, BUT FOR ALL WE KNEW, IT WAS A ONE OFF!

James Peters: Guess Rex is here for the long haul!

(Rex enters the ring, and shakes hands with Captain Charisma. The two exchange words with each other, which aren’t picked up on camera, and Captain Charisma hands the mic off to Rex McAllistar before exiting the ring. Captain Charisma is giving Rex his moment to soak it all in as “Stronger (salü Remix)” by The Score fades out, and the crowd are still extremely pumped up to see Rex back in an EAW ring again after Grand Rampage. Rex doesn’t hide his happiness either, and after the reactions cool down slightly, Rex starts saying his first words into the mic.)

Rex McAllistar: First of all, thank you. Second of all, none of this would have been possible without Captain Charisma, so I think he’s owed a thank you as well.

(The camera cuts to Captain Charisma, who is heading up the ramp, but turns around, and raises both hands in the air, basking in the fan reaction, who show him some appreciation once more with their cheers. Captain Charisma turns back around to leave, and the camera cuts back to Rex in the ring.)

Rex McAllistar: Now, yes, I am the newest, albeit temporary member of the Voltage commentary team, which puts me at the same risk level as wrestling, because I’ll be seated next to Persephone on a weekly basis, who’ll barely be able to stay in her seat if we’re being honest. But… that doesn’t take away from the fact I’m glad to be back, and appear on Voltage weekly in any capacity I can after such a long time away. Now, I realize that seeing me back is as good for you as it is for me based off the reaction, but I know that there are some questions surrounding my return, such as why I’m a commentator in the first place. Fear not, Grand Rampage was not my final match ever, but it will be my final match for now as during it, I tweaked my hamstring, and because of it, I’m not cleared for in-ring competition.

(The fans boo once hearing this.)

Rex McAllistar: I know, I know. It’s as disappointing for you as it is me, but on the bright side, doctors have assured me it’s not long before I am cleared, and able to step back in this ring once more. But until then, expect to see my face around here every week for SUNDAY NIGHT VOLTAGE!

(Rex throws the microphone down, and “Stronger (salü Remix)” by The Score plays once again. Rex exits the ring, and shakes hands with both James Peters and Rich Russillo, who bring to Rex’s attention that Persephone fainted, which they all find amusement in before Rex turns attentions to fans ringside, taking time to high five them, take pictures with, and generally interact, something he didn’t get the chance to do much of at Grand Rampage.)

James Peters: I may not be excited to the level of Persophone where I nearly pass out :troll:, but I’m excited nonetheless to be joined at the commentary table by Rex McAllistar of all people!

Rich Russillo: Yeah! I mean, think about what he brings to the table, and that’s a performer’s point of view, something none of us have. Rex knows why a wrestler is doing this, or why a wrestler is doing that, and can hopefully offer some insight to us over at the commentary table.

James Peters: Uh-oh.

(James notices that Persephone is starting to stir, and she rises back to her feet, still a bit loopy from fainting.)

Persephone: I had the craziest dream… Sexy Rexy was joining me on commentary.

James Peters: Well, Persephone, that wasn’t a drea-

Persephone: DBFUUFDKFIIFIFKEOEPRFUUCJDJSJDYFUDJSKFU

(Persephone cuts off James, having connected the dots herself, and quickly takes off her headset, running right at Rex McAllister, who was too busy interacting with fans, he didn’t notice Persephone coming up from behind, and hopping on his back, fangirling out. Rex tries to shake her off, and security intervenes, pulling Persephone off themselves, but struggling greatly to keep her at bay.)

James Peters: If this is how she’s acting now, I don’t want to see how she acts next week.

Rich Russillo: Agreed.

(The camera fades to black as Rex McAllistar goes back to high fiving fans while heading up the ramp, and posing while security attempt keeping Persephone at bay, needing all hands on deck, as her strength has doubled at seeing Rex McAllistar in the flesh.)

(EAW logo buzzes.)

Written by John Helms

Most Valuable Elitist #364

BREAKING NEWS: CHALLENGE ACCEPTED & THE MATCH STIPULATION ANNOUNCED FOR FIGHTING SPIRIT