EPISODE # 2.3
HSBC ARENA
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL
TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2011

A video package airs, highlighting the events that closed last week’s broadcast, with an opportunistic Michael Grieco pulling off an upset victory in a fatal fourway match that also included Scythe, Solomon, and Showtime Damon Savage to become number one contender to Dan Crowley’s PWA World Heavyweight Championship.

As the video concludes, “Live Again” by Ours hits and the opening credits roll. From there, we are taken inside the HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where a breathtaking pyrotechnic display ensues and we focus on our commentators, Victor Troy and Randall Buckingham.

Troy: Hello everyone and welcome to PWA: The Rebirth! I’m Victor Troy, along here with Randall Buckingham, and we are live in Rio de Janeiro for another explosive two-hour broadcast!

Buckingham: That we are, and tonight, for the first time this season, we will see the PWA World Heavyweight Championship put on the line, as Dan Crowley defends against the man who earned number one contendership status one week ago, Michael Grieco.

Troy: This certainly is the biggest match of Grieco’s career, as a win here would earn him the championship he has sought since he entered this company some eight years ago. But does he have what it takes to defeat Dan Crowley and capture the gold?

Buckingham: Absolutely, Troy. Mark my words: we WILL see a new champion crowned tonight.

Troy: Of course, that’s not the only championship that will be defended tonight. For the third time in three weeks, fighting champion Evan Black will put his International title on the line, this time against his greatest challenge yet: GI Jew.

Buckingham: When these two met a year ago, Black got the win with a major assist from Jason Calysto, but tonight, Black will need more than well-timed interference to escape with his championship intact. As a matter of fact, let’s mark me down for predicting TWO title changes tonight.

Troy: Bold prediction, but knowing you, it’s not surprising. Beyond those title bouts, folks, we’re going to see a seven-woman battle royal in which the order of elimination will determine the new rankings for the division, and the winner will challenge Zina for the gold in one week’s time.

Buckingham: Also, Markus Krieg will compete in his first televised match in the PWA, as he takes on Greg Tantalus.

Troy: Plus, we’ll see the reprisal of an old rivalry tonight as Kerry Cox squares off with Dexter P. Wellington.

Buckingham: And let’s not forget, we’re going to hear from those two mystery assailants who took out Jaguar two weeks ago and who attacked Vulture and Jason Calysto last week.

Troy: All that and much more, including tonight’s opening contest! Let’s get down to ringside!

***

With that, “Merciless Cult” by Dir en Grey hits and the Brazilian fans give a warm welcome to PWA newcomer Asai Moon! Moon slaps hands with the fans all the way down the aisle, readying himself for combat.

Moments later, “Sonne” by Rammstein slams its way onto the speakers and the fans begin booing as Chris Duval emerges from behind the curtain.

Troy: Quite the interesting opening contest we’ve got here tonight.

Buckingham: Sure is. Second-generation grappler Chris Duval will be in action for the first time on The Rebirth this season, but takes on an exciting upstart in Asai Moon.

Troy: And I find it very interesting that Asai was even willing to take this match. As a cruiserweight, and one that came mighty close to capturing the Progressive Championship a week ago, you’d think Moon would want to focus on smaller opponents. Tonight, he takes on a clear heavyweight in Duval.

Buckingham: You call it interesting, I call it stupid. But this is the kind of idiotic behavior that these fans reward, so I guess there’s a method to the madness.

Duval is expressionless as he heads down the aisle and ultimately steps into the ring, ready to kick off tonight’s action.

CHRIS DUVAL VS. ASAI MOON
Referee: Dan Martin
After the bell sounds, Duval stays back, waiting for Asai to make the first move. Moon obliges, lunging towards Duval with a kick to the midsection, which connects. However, when Asai attempts several more of these kicks in a row, Chris gets wise, catching his foot and sweeping him down to the mat. With Moon down, Duval begins working over his legs.

Buckingham: VERY smart strategy by Chris Duval right here. Asai’s aerial game is what makes him so dangerous, and if you can injure his legs, you take that away from him.

Duval works on hyperextending Moon’s right knee, causing him to bellow in pain. However, Asai hangs tough, working his way back to a vertical base before leaping up and blasting Duval in the head with his left foot, completing an enziguri! Moon covers… one, two, and Duval is able to kick out.

With Duval dazed, Asai meets him with a flurry of kicks and punches when he reaches his feet. Moon then whips Duval against the ropes and catches him with a hurricanrana as he returns, hooking the leg for the pin! One, two, and Duval escapes.

Duval tries to get up, but Asai is again there to take him down, clobbering him in the jaw with a shining wizard before he can rise! Another cover… one, two, and again Duval kicks out.

This time, however, Asai goes to the top rope, looking for something a little more high risk. Duval is dazed and unable to see Asai hurdling towards him as he rises, taking him back down with a double knee drop! The fans cheer loudly, and Asai celebrates with a backflip.

Buckingham: He’s wasting time, Troy! If you have Chris Duval on the ropes, you’d damn well better capitalize on it before he can recover!

Troy: Well, it looks like Asai will be doing just that!

Asai Moon stands at Duval’s head and tries to pump up the crowd before signaling to his elbow. He then hits off the ropes, leaps over Duval, hits off the opposite ropes… but Duval leaps up and destroys Asai with a vicious sidewalk slam! Duval covers… one, two, and Moon is able to escape.

Buckingham: I told you he wasted too much time!

Troy: He just might have. Nonetheless, Moon was unable to land the elbow, and now Duval is firmly in control.

The sidewalk slam taking a lot out of him, Moon struggles to get back to a vertical base. However, when he does, he is ripe for the picking. Duval hooks his arm around Moon’s neck, lifts him up, and crushes him down with the Duval Driver, floating right into the cover for the… one, two, three.

Troy: And that’s gonna do it for this one. A nice victory for Chris Duval, but an impressive performance in defeat for Asai Moon.

Buckingham: I can agree with that. I think Moon was crazy for even taking this match in the first place, but he had a nice showing for himself. But the bottom line is that Chris Duval wins the match and keeps on rolling in his second season here in the PWA.

The Rio crowd mostly boos Duval as “Sonne” replays and he exits in victory, looking back at Moon as we head to break.
WINNER VIA PINFALL AT 5:48 – CHRIS DUVAL

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

Back from commercial, we see Chris Duval walking through the backstage area, approaching his locker room. However, before he reaches it, he is stopped by his sister, Alexis.

Alexis: Hey.

Chris: Yes?

Alexis: Nice job out there.

Chris: Thanks. Now what do you really want?

Alexis: Alright look, I know things have been a little strained since I started seeing Jackie. I know you don’t approve, but seriously Chris, you need to let it go. It’s my life and I can do what I want.

Chris: I’m very aware of the fact that it’s your life, but I’m just disappointed that someone who shares my genetic material could be so dumb.

Alexis: Excuse me?

Chris: Alexis, how many times do we have to go through this? I’ve known Jackie a long, long time. You have too. But as a guy, I know him a LOT better than you. And I can say with great certainty that Jackie Baccaro is not relationship material. Maybe for some trashbag ho, but not for my sister. He doesn’t give a damn about anyone but himself. Training with him, we could use that to our advantage. Our goals were the same. But dating him… he’s using you, sis. I know it for a fact, and I can’t believe you don’t see it.

Alexis: I just don’t understand how you could say that about someone who has done so much for us. We’d be nothing without Jackie. I’d trust him with my life.

Chris: Well then, I feel sorry for you. And when he breaks your heart, don’t come crying to me.

Alexis: You don’t get it, Chris.

Chris: I don’t get what?

Alexis: He’s livid about your response to all this. Especially what you did last week. If you don’t drop it, I don’t think I can keep him away from you for long.

Chris: Well then he knows where to —

Before Chris can even complete his sentence, he is attacked from behind by Jackie Baccaro! Alexis screams out in protest as Baccaro stomps away on Duval in the backstage area, before lifting him up and tossing him into the wall. As Chris writhes in pain, Baccaro kneels down in front of him.

Baccaro: After everything I did for you, this is the thanks I get?! Know this, Chris: I’m with your sister and there isn’t a damn thing you can do about it. So consider this a warning. Stay out of my way, or next time will be much, much worse.

Baccaro gets up and turns to leave, but Alexis, with tears in her eyes, wants to tend to her brother. However, Baccaro grabs her by the arm and escorts her away.

***

Back at ringside, “Mouth For War” by Pantera hits, causing some head-scratching by the fans in attendance, until the two mystery assailants that have made their presence known begin walking down the aisle. Upon the sight of them, the fans begin booing loudly.

Troy: Well, it looks like we’re about to find out who these guys are.

Buckingham: Whoever they are, they sure have made quite the impact already.

On the left is a man with long, shaggy brown hair and an eye patch. On the right is a bald, goateed individual. Both men also sport ugly, noticeable scars all over their bodies. The man with the eye patch grabs a microphone and meets the bald man in the ring. Finally, the man with the patch begins to speak.

Eye Patch Man: After two weeks of doing our work anonymously, I think it’s about time our story is told. But it’s sort of fitting in a way, since our entire careers have been in the shadows. That’s what we’re here to chance. The man to my left is known as Pitbull. You can call me Maddox Tate. Together, we are Texas Justice. And though this may be the first you’ve ever seen of us, we are no rookies. In fact, we’ve been scraping and clawing our way through the wrestling business for over 20 y ears.

Pitbull: You see the scars that adorn our bodies? Those are from years of competing in death matches all over the world, doing whatever we had to do to our bodies to make a living. Because that’s what you people want. You want to see people damn near kill themselves in the ring for your entertainment.

Maddox Tate: Pitbull and I have given everything to the pursuit of wrestling stardom. Hell, I even lost my eyesight wrestling in a barbed wire match in Japan. But it wasn’t always this way. Many years ago, we left our hometown of Odessa, Texas and found ourselves up and coming stars working a thriving independent territory in the southeastern United States. We were generating a lot of buzz and climbing our way up the ladder. That is, until the Hot Boy$ showed up in our territory.

The fans cheer wildly at the mere mention of the legendary PWA tag team.

Pitbull: That’s right, cheer. Cheer for the two men who ruined our lives. Jaguar and Romeo entered our promotion, and overnight, they hogged all the spotlight. Soon enough, no one was talking about Maddox Tate. No one was talking about Pitbull. All anyone cared to talk about was Jaguar and Romeo.

Tate: So of course, when two spots opened up in a major New York-based promotion, they got the call. That led to Jaguar getting the opportunity to jump to CAW in 2000, and bring Romeo with him shortly thereafter. Then when PWA opened in 2002, the Hot Boy$ found themselves charter members of the promotion, and went on to become multi-time world champions, legends. Jaguar is in the Hall of Fame, and Romeo probably will be too one day. But what about us?

Pitbull: The whole time they were sitting back, enjoying their fame and success, we were working for next to nothing to try to hang onto a dream. Do you know how much it bothered us to turn on our televisions every Tuesday night for years and see those two glory hogs on top? It sickened us!

Tate: Now, Romeo is retired and Jaguar was poised to do the same after the absolutely revolting scene of him celebrating his victory at Everlasting Epic in Jacksonville last year. Well, that is, until we got a call from Justin Schenck this past winter.

Pitbull: It was about the last thing we ever expected. A call from the head of a major wrestling company. Somehow, he’d heard about us, and wanted to offer us a contract. He also let it slip that Jaguar was planning on announcing his retirement on the first episode.

Tate: We just weren’t about to let that happen without our own personal brand of Texas Justice. Jaguar, I know you’re home watching. Listen to me, and listen to me good. You don’t get to have the hero’s exit. You stole our spotlight, and now it’s our turn to steal yours. You sit your ass at home in Jacksonville and you stay there. Because if you even think about coming back, what you got two weeks ago will be just a small taste of what’s to come.

Moments later, “F*ckin in the Bushes” by Oasis hits the speakers and The Iceman Jason Calysto and Vulture emerge from behind the curtain! The fans cheer thunderously for the PWA Tag Team Champions as they make their way out from the back, microphone in tow. They stand face-to-face with the newcomers as Calysto begins to speak.

Calysto: So that’s it? That’s the story?

Pitbull: That’s the story.

Calysto: Sounds to us like you two are nothing more than a couple of whining crybabies.

Pitbull: Is that so?

Vulture: Listen punks, Jaguar and Romeo weren’t handed success; they earned it through years and years of hard work and dedication. That’s not to say you didn’t work hard, but did you ever think that the reason they “stole your spotlight” is because they were simply better than you? If I’ve learned anything in this business, it’s that no matter what, talent will always rise to the top. Maybe if you’re as good as you think you are, it wouldn’t have taken you 20 years to get here.

Tate: If that isn’t a challenge to a Tag Team title match, then I don’t know what is.

Before either of the champions can respond, “Reason to Hate Me” by Krayzie Bone hits the speakers and PWA creative director Justin Schenck appears from behind the curtain.

Schenck: Alright, everybody hold up a minute! Maddox Tate, Pitbull, while I appreciate your ambition, your debut match in the PWA will NOT be a championship match. However, I do have some good news for you. Your debut match is going to be against the number one contenders to those titles, Paul Dawkins and Renegade. And the winner of that match will challenge Vulture and Jason Calysto for the belts one week from tonight. So it will be Texas Justice versus Paul Dawkins and Renegade… and that match… is next!

Buckingham: Wow! What an announcement!

Troy: A tag team title shot is at stake when we return! Stay with us, folks!

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

Back from break, “You Don’t Know” by Eminem and 50 Cent is blaring over the speakers and Paul Dawkins and Renegade are on their way to the ring. Maddox Tate and Pitbull await them in the squared circle, looking primed and ready.

Troy: Alright ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to PWA: The Rebirth. We have a very important match to bring you right now, and to present it to you, we have two special guests in the broadcast booth with us. Vulture, Jason Calysto, welcome.

Vulture: Thanks Vic, it’s a pleasure to be here.

Calysto: Something feels strangely familiar about having this headset on…

Troy: Hey, Iceman, I love watching you compete in the ring again, but you’re sorely missed out here! Believe me!

Buckingham: I don’t miss you one bit, Calysto.

Calysto: Randall, I am completely sincere when I tell you I have no idea how you haven’t been fired yet.

Dawkins and Renegade enter the ring and decide on Dawkins starting off the match as the bell sounds.

PAUL DAWKINS & RENEGADE VS. TEXAS JUSTICE
Referee: Matt Hansen
Maddox Tate starts the match for the newcomers and he immediately takes the fight right to Dawkins, booting him in the gut and bashing him with repeated clubbing forearm shots. Dawkins winces in pain, and Tate lifts him and crushes him with a hard backbreaker. Then, rather than going for a cover, Tate rushes over to the corner and clobbers Renegade with a forearm to the jaw, knocking him off the apron.

Troy: C’mon, ref! That was uncalled for!

Vulture: I think it’s pretty clear these guys aren’t gonna be your kind of team, Vic.

Calysto: Definitely not, V. Vic is just about the most pure-hearted champion of truth and justice I’ve ever met in my life.

Tate lifts Dawkins up and whips him into the corner before crushing him with a hard clothesline. He then begins choking Dawkins, after which the referee steps in to get Tate away from the corner. However, this serves as a distraction, which allows Pitbull to wrap the tag rope around Dawkins’ neck and begin strangling him!

By the time the referee turns around, Pitbull has ceased the choking, but Dawkins has been significantly weakened. Tate now tags Pitbull into the bout, who resumes working Dawkins over in the corner, pounding him with repeated kicks and kneelifts to the midsection. Now, Pitbull provides a distraction for the official, allowing Maddox to strangle Dawkins with the tag rope.

Meanwhile, Renegade gets back on the apron and, seeing this, charges into the ring, protesting to the official. However, this merely occupies the referee’s attention, allowing Tate to strangle Dawkins with the rope some more, while Pitbull simultaneously kicks Dawkins in the gut repeatedly.

Vulture: The referee sure is in control of this one, huh?

Calysto: It’s a pretty pathetic display of officiating, isn’t it?

With Dawkins prone in the corner, Pitbull rushes over to Renegade and slaps him in the face! Furious, Renegade enters the ring, which prompts Pitbull to exit it, leading Renegade on a chase around the perimeter of the ring. However, when Renegade approaches the opposing corner, he doesn’t see Maddox Tate leap off the apron and clobber him with a furious flying clothesline!

Pitbull then slides back into the ring and, when Tate returns to the apron, tags his partner in. Tate enters and immediately lifts Dawkins up for a crucifix powerbomb, but Pitbull climbs up to the top rope and leaps off, grabbing Dawkins’ head and driving him down with a reverse bulldog, supplementing the impact of the maneuver as Tate drops to the mat, slamming Dawkins down! Tate then hooks the leg… one, two, three.

Buckingham: Awesome! What a win for Texas Justice!

Troy: All they did in that match was bend the rulebook every which way they could!

Buckingham: No Troy, they outsmarted Dawkins and Renegade. They made it look easy! And Vulture, Calysto, I hate to say it, but they’re going to do the exact same thing to you next week. Actually, what am I saying? I don’t hate to say it. I love it! New champions next week!

Vulture: We’ll be ready.

Calysto: We got a good look at them tonight. Now we know their game. But trust us, they’re not outsmarting us like that next week.

Vulture: Not a chance.

The fans boo loudly as “Mouth For War” replays and Maddox Tate and Pitbull stand in the ring victorious. They stare at Vulture and Calysto at the commentary table and gesture around their waists that they are going to be Tag Team Champions next week. Vulture and Calysto respond by holding their belts high as the shot fades.
WINNER VIA PINFALL AT 4:54 – TEXAS JUSTICE

***

As we return from break, we see images of the skyline of Dubai, United Arab Emirates as “Aksem” by Ahlam plays in the background. The camera zooms further and further until we see the Deira City Centre, a popular large-scale, mixed-use shopping destination that features retail outlets, restaurants, entertainment facilities, and a hotel. We zoom even further, into the main lobby, where we see Saif al Abbad, the same Arab man we heard from last week.

Saif: Greetings and welcome again to Dubai! I am Saif al Abbad, and I am here at the magnificent Deira City Centre. Now, as a wealthy and privileged man with ties to the ruling family, I don’t need to be here, but I find it important to do as normal people do. My wealth and privilege doesn’t make me better than anyone here, or any one of you. In fact, I will prove it.

Saif then stops a tourist couple.

Saif: Greetings! Is this your first time in Dubai?

Man: Yes actually, it is.

Saif: And are you enjoying yourselves?

Woman: We’re having a great time.

Saif: Well then, here is a little something to further your enjoyment!

Saif pulls out two gold bars and hands one to each of them. Stunned, the couple graciously thanks Saif and exits before he changes his mind. Saif then turns back to the camera, holding another bar of gold.

Saif: I believe in generosity towards my fellow man, but when I come to the PWA, I don’t think my fellow cruiserweights will find me to be quite as giving. I may be willing to give away pieces of gold such as this, but when I arrive in the PWA, I’ll be replacing gold like this with the gold of the Progressive Championship.

With that, the camera begins panning out as a graphic appears on the screen, reading “Saif al Abbad – Coming Soon.” We then go to commercial.

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

Back from break, “Marriage of Figaro” by Mozart hits the speakers and Dexter P. Wellington begins making his way to the ring to a chorus of boos.

Troy: Alright folks, welcome back. Before the break, we saw another clip of incoming cruiserweight competitor Saif al Abbad, and right now, we’re witnessing the arrival of Dex Wellington, who is perhaps the anti-Saif.

Buckingham: Well, last season, Wellington fooled us all into thinking that he had taken up a new career as a philanthropist, but in the end, it was the same old Dex, who cares only for himself. Not that I disagree with that philosophy, mind you. Wellington has had great success in this company doing things his way. We’ll see what Saif brings to the table when he arrives. Hopefully a big bag of gold for his favorite announcer, Randall Buckingham.

Troy: (sighing deeply) Nevertheless, Wellington is here tonight to square off with Kerry Cox, a longtime rival of his.

Buckingham: We’re really going to see just how much gas Cox has left in the tank tonight. I’m not sure today’s Kerry Cox can still hang with an athlete the caliber of DPW.

As Wellington settles himself in the ring, “War Machine” by KISS hits the speakers and the Rio crowd cheers thunderously for the Hardcore Icon Kerry Cox! Cox wastes no time heading to the ring, jogging down the aisle, rolling inside, and immediately taking the fight to Wellington as the bell sounds!

KERRY COX VS. DEXTER P. WELLINGTON
Referee: Tom Stevens
Wellington is caught slightly off guard as Cox attacks, but Dex manages to survive the early onslaught and, as Cox moves in for a stomp, grab him by the shirt and yank him right out of the ring. Cox lands awkwardly on the outside and is slow to his feet, giving Wellington an opportunity to pounce. Dex moves to the outside, helps Cox to his feet, and whips him violently into the steel steps, Cox’s back connecting with explosive impact.

Troy: My God! That did NOT sound good!

Buckingham: Spine on steel usually doesn’t.

Wellington is not done, however, grabbing Cox and smashing his head hard into the steel ringpost, splitting him open. He then rolls Cox back into the ring, turns him over, and effortlessly covers… one, two, and Cox gets the shoulder up!

The fans cheer loudly, but Wellington can only shake his head. He lifts Cox up and destroys him with a German suplex, bridging into a pin attempt… one, two, thr-NO! Cox gets the shoulder up!

Troy: Cox just refuses to stay down!

Buckingham: Yet he can’t accomplish anything when he’s up. This guy has a lot of heart, I’ll give him that, but he’s ready for the glue factory.

Troy: Will you stop?!

Wellington slowly lifts Cox back to his feet and signals for the Million Dollar Dream. However, when DPW attempts to apply the hold, Cox elbows him in the jaw, boots him in the stomach, and grabs him in position for the Coxsucker DDT! The fans cheer wildly, but it is not to be, as Wellington drives Cox back into the turnbuckle, breaking his grip. Then, as Cox stumbles forward, Wellington spins him around and slaps on the Million Dollar Dream!

Troy: Oh no! The Dream is on!

Buckingham: And you might as well get Old Man Cox a blanket, because he’s got a one-way ticket to Dreamland!

Cox struggles mightily in the hold, desperately trying to avoid the ignominy of submitting to his hated rival Wellington. However, after about 30 seconds in the hold, Cox can fight no longer and taps out.

The fans boo mercilessly as “Marriage of Figaro” replays and Wellington has himself a good chuckle at Cox’s expense. However, despite the victory, Wellington does not appear to be finished with Cox tonight. Dex exits the ring and grabs a steel chair.

Troy: Oh come on! This is uncalled for! You made your point, Wellington!

Buckingham: He may have made his point, but now we’re going to see the exclamation point!

Wellington exits the ring and grabs a steel chair. He then re-enters and shoves the official to the mat when he tries to stop him. However, before he can nail Cox with the chair, Jon Dulberg charges down the aisle, carrying his own chair!

Rather than engage in a battle of chairs, Wellington tosses his weapon down and escapes the ring. Dulberg checks on Cox in the ring, daring Wellington to come back and fight him, while DPW simply smirks at Dulberg and backpedals back up the ramp.
WINNER VIA SUBMISSION AT 4:26 – DEXTER P. WELLINGTON

***

The camera then shifts to the backstage area, where we see the PWA World Heavyweight Champion Dan Crowley preparing for his title defense later tonight against Michael Grieco. Moments later, Showtime Damon Savage enters the shot. He extends his hand and Crowley shakes it.

Crowley: What’s up, Damon?

Showtime: Not a whole lot, champ. Got the night off tonight. Just figured I’d come on over and wish you luck tonight in your title defense.

Crowley: Thanks man. I appreciate that.

Showtime: And just in case it’s unclear for some reason, I want to just stress to you, once again, that I’m coming for your title. I don’t know when or where I’m gonna get my opportunity, but I will not rest until that gold is around my waist.

Crowley: I can appreciate that as well. And just to be clear, I did let Justin Schenck know that I wanted to defend the title against you. Unfortunately, it’s not my decision to make. So it’s on you to make it happen.

Showtime: Fine by me. Sooner than later, Showtime will win his shot at the title. Just make sure you’ve still got it when I do.

Crowley: It’s a deal.

Crowley and Showtime shake hands again as Savage exits and we head to break.

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

As we return, “Reise, Reise” by Rammstein invades the speakers and the fans begin booing loudly as the gargantuan German Markus Krieg begins making his way down the aisle, accompanied by Chase Stone. Krieg steps over the top rope and enters the ring, awaiting his opposition.

He isn’t made to wait long, as “Hey You” by Simon Says thumps onto the speakers and Greg Tantalus emerges to a tremendous ovation! Hollywood Mike Griffin is at his side as he heads down the aisle at a more accelerated pace than usual, anxious to get his battle with Krieg underway. Tantalus rolls into the ring and immediately clobbers Krieg with a hard right, prompting the bell to sound.

GREG TANTALUS VS. MARKUS KRIEG
Referee: Jose Soares
Tantalus continues pounding away on Krieg, who appears more annoyed than injured after the flurry ends. Krieg responds with a clubbing forearm that drops Tantalus down to a knee and follows it up with a stiff kick to the jaw that knocks him down.

Buckingham: I think you’re going to need a Plan B, Tantalus. You can’t beat this guy head-on.

Tantalus immediately tries to get back to his feet, but Krieg is right there, ready to whip him into the corner, which he does with crushing authority. Tantalus staggers forward after impact and Krieg grabs him, driving him across his knee with a ferocious backbreaker. Krieg covers… one, two, and Tantalus gets the shoulder up.

After several stomps, Krieg attempts to lift Tantalus again, but this time Tantalus responds with a hard right hand to the jaw! Krieg is momentarily stunned, allowing Tantalus to leap up and nail him with a high knee! With Krieg now on wobbly legs, Tantalus hits the ropes, looking for another knee, but Krieg counters with a boot to the jaw that floors Tantalus! Krieg covers… one, two, and Tantalus kicks out.

Tantalus is dazed as Krieg lifts him off the mat, grabs him in Rockbottom position, lifts him up, and crunches him down across his knee. With that, Krieg runs his thumb across his throat, signaling for the end.

Troy: Oh no, this doesn’t look good.

Buckingham: This whole match hasn’t looked good if you’re a Greg Tantalus fan.

Greg Tantalus very slowly starts to pull himself back to a vertical base, and Markus Krieg stands there, looking for the kill. However, just before Tantalus gets up, Mike Griffin hops onto the ring apron, distracting Krieg. Krieg turns his attention to Griffin, who hops off the apron and continues jawing at the much larger Krieg, drawing the referee’s attention.

However, with Krieg and the referee distracted, Chase Stone walks over to Tantalus, who is using the ropes to pull himself up, pulls a pair of brass knuckles out of his tights, and clocks Tantalus square in the jaw! Tantalus goes down like a ton of bricks, after which Krieg turns his attention away from Griffin.

Troy: Oh come on! This is ridiculous!

Krieg pries the limp Tantalus off the mat, grabs him in full nelson position, lifts him up, and crushes him down with authority. He then plants one foot on Tantalus’ chest as the referee counts… one, two, three.

Buckingham: Markus Krieg wins it! What a win!

Troy: Well, Krieg did largely dominate this bout, but Chase Stone got involved there, clocking Tantalus with brass knuckles that really took away any chance of Tantalus getting back into this one!

Buckingham: Just another example of how Markus Krieg and Chase Stone have seemed to be far more on the same page the last few weeks than the “great” TFU. Griffin tried to help Tantalus out, and ended up making matters worse.

The fans boo loudly as “Reise, Reise” replays and Krieg exits, heading back up the ramp in victory with Stone.
WINNER VIA PINFALL AT 5:08 – MARKUS KRIEG

Before Krieg and Stone can disappear behind the curtain, however, Mike Griffin grabs a microphone.

Griffin: That’s it! I’m sick of this! Tantalus and myself, we’re both sick of this! You two want to work together every week? Then next week, let’s have ourselves a tag team match. How about next week in Paris, it’s Krieg and Stone… versus TFU?! What do you say?!

The fans cheer loudly, and Stone and Krieg smirk at each other and nod in agreement.

Griffin: We’re on? Good! We’ll see you punks next week!

With that, “Vicarious” by TOOL, the TFU theme, hits the speakers as Griffin turns his attention back to Tantalus.

Troy: Oh my! We’re gonna see TFU in action next week!

Buckingham: Yeah, they’ll be in action next week. Their action will be losing. I’m telling you, these guys cannot contend with Krieg and Stone, and we’re going to find that out firsthand next week.

Troy: Folks, stay with us, we’ll be right back!

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

Back from break, we see John Wolfe walking into the office of PWA creative director Justin Schenck, who sighs upon seeing him.

Schenck: How did I know you were going to come see me tonight?

Wolfe: I want another shot at the International title.

Schenck: And how did I know that was exactly what you were coming to see me about?

Wolfe: I’m not playing around, Schenck. I got screwed out of my title opportunity last week, and I want another.

Schenck: You got screwed after you tried to cheat. It evened itself out.

Wolfe: Don’t mess with me, Schenck! It’s bad enough I got screwed last week, and it’s even worse that Paul Epton has my Progressive Championship, but I will not stand for you adding insult to injury here and denying me another opportunity to salvage this season! Now when is my next title shot?!

Schenck: Listen, Wolfe. There’s nothing I can do for you right now. Let me see what I can work out over the weekend. Come see me next week and I might have something for you. But right now, you’re going to have to let it go.

Wolfe then growls in frustration and storms out of the office.

***

The camera cuts to another portion of the backstage area, where reporter Traci Reed is standing with the Alaskan Monster Solomon.

Traci: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here with Solomon, who of course will NOT be challenging Dan Crowley for the PWA Championship later tonight, as that honor was won by Michael Grieco seven days ago. Solomon, can you tell us what you think happened in that match last week that caused you to lose?

Solomon looks at Traci incredulously before answering.

Solomon: Are you really that fearless of me that you would ask a question like that? Scott Cornelius would have crapped his pants before getting that question out.

Traci: I guess I just assumed you were too much of a gentleman to hit a lady.

Voice: You’re taking a risk with that one, Traci.

Solomon and Traci turn around to see that the voice belongs to the Modern-Day Samurai Scythe, who has walked into the shot.

Scythe: There isn’t a lot of good in this man.

Solomon: Do you have a point, Scythe?

Before Scythe can answer, GI Jew walks past the group and chuckles.

Jew: Let’s be honest. There’s never a point to anything either one of you do. Why don’t you do us all a favor and argue behind closed doors and off camera? No one cares. But you know what people do care about? Seeing me tear that sniveling Jewish lawyer Evan Black limb from limb and win the International Championship. So excuse me while I go give the people what they want.

Traci, Solomon, and Scythe shake their heads at GI Jew as he exits, headed for the ring.

Troy: It’s Evan Black and GI Jew for the International Championship, and it’s next! Don’t move a muscle!

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

As we return, “War is the Answer” by Five Finger Death Punch thrusts its way onto the speakers, giving the Rio crowd the first taste of GI Jew’s new entrance music. The song may be different, but the entrance is still unmistakably GI Jew, as the two-time former PWA Champion rides his Chopper down to the ring, wearing not just his trademark Aviators, but also his trademark scowl. After a lap around the ring, Jew parks his Chopper and enters the ring.

With that, “Hero” by Nas featuring Keri Hilson thumps onto the speakers, setting off a wave of cheers to greet the arrival of the International Champion, Evan Black. The champion slaps hands with the fans at ringside, but wears a more serious expression on his face than normal as he makes his entrance. GI Jew stares a hole through him from the ring, keeping his gaze locked on him through the ring introductions, which begin as soon as Black enters the squared circle and hands the belt to the official.

Palmer: Ladies and gentlemen, this next contest is scheduled for one fall and is for the PWA International Championship!

Introducing first, the challenger, from Queens, New York, weighing 238 pounds… G…I… JEWWWWWWWWWW!

And his opponent, from Westchester, New York, weighing 225 pounds, he is the PWA International Champion … EVVVVVVVANNNNNNN BLLLLLLLAAAAACKKKKKKKKK!

Troy: This should be one tremendous championship match, Randall.

Buckingham: I’m not really sure how much of a match this is going to be. I expect GI Jew to pick up the win here and capture the title, and really not have to work too hard in the process.

Troy: I guess we’re about to find out!

PWA INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP:
EVAN BLACK (champion) VS. GI JEW (challenger)
Referee: Matt Hansen
After the bell sounds, Black and Jew circle each other in the ring, each man appearing somewhat hesitant to make the first move. However, before long, Jew takes the plunge, stretching toward Black with a powerful clothesline. Unfortunately for Jew, Black is able to duck under it and responds with a hard forearm shiver that connects with Jew’s jaw. Black then whips Jew against the ropes and takes him down with a deep armdrag as he returns, converting it directly into an armbar as Jew hits the mat.

Black digs down deep, trying to wear Jew down with the hold, but GI Jew doesn’t stay down long. He first gets back to a knee before returning to a complete standing position, where he peppers Black with several stiff shots to the jaw, forcing him to break the hold. Jew then grabs Black and whips him hard into the corner before charging him and smashing his shoulder forcefully into Black’s gut. As if once wasn’t enough, Jew does it again, and again, and yet again. Black then attempts to stagger out of the corner, but Jew shoves him back in before stinging his chest with repeated knife-edge chops.

Troy: GI Jew is in firm control of this match thus far.

Buckingham: I wasn’t expecting anything less, Troy. Evan Black got lucky and beat GI Jew once last season. He isn’t going to do it again tonight.

After four slicing chops to the chest, the color of Black’s chest noticeably begins to turn red. With that, Jew perches the International Champion on the top rope and follows, looking for a superplex. However, before Jew is able to lift him for the maneuver, Black fights him off with several hard forearm shots. Jew is staggered by the first two, but the third succeeds in knocking Jew off the turnbuckle, sending him crashing down into the ring! With Jew down and Black perched on the top, a smile comes across Evan Black’s face.

Troy: He’s thinking Black’s Law! Evan Black is thinking about ending this match right here, right now!

Buckingham: C’mon, Jew! You need to get out of this predicament and fast!

After taking a moment to compose himself, Black leaps off, twisting in mid-air to complete Black’s Law! However, just before impact, Jew raises both his knees up, connecting violently with Black’s midsection!

Black is deeply wounded by the impact, but springs to his feet and staggers to the ropes, trying to keep himself vertical. Jew, on the other hand, gathers himself, brings himself to a standing position, and charges forward with a furious Gore, connecting with such ferocity that both he and Black tumble through the ropes and land on the arena floor!

Troy: My God! What a Gore!

Buckingham: That Gore literally knocked both participants right out of the ring!

Troy: Keep in mind now that both men need to get back into the ring before a count of 10! If even one of them remains outside at the count of 10, Evan Black will retain the International Championship.

Buckingham: I hate to say it, but given the nature of their spill, I think the possibility of this match ending when Matt Hansen’s count reaches 10 is pretty high.

Hansen begins counting and reaches four before either man even threatens to get back to their feet. By the time the count is at seven, GI Jew is nearly back to his feet, though Evan Black has barely stirred. At the count of nine, Jew is able to quickly roll in and out of the ring, resetting the count.

Buckingham: Brilliant move by GI Jew! He could have settled for the count-out victory, but that would have proven nothing. He came here tonight not just to win the International Championship, but to prove his ultimate superiority over Evan Black. Winning this match via count-out would have accomplished neither.

Back on the outside, Jew helps Black to his feet and rolls him back inside. Jew then re-enters the ring himself and sets himself up on the opposite side of the ring, poised to deliver another Gore. He waits for the International Champion to get back to his feet, pulling himself up with assistance from the ring ropes. Once Black is up and turns around, Jew charges him like a ferocious rhino, ready to deliver a Gore that will bring the Baddest Hebe This Side of Tel Aviv his second International Championship.

However, just before impact, Black leapfrogs over the charging Jew, sending him crashing shoulder first into the steel ringpost! Jew winces in pain, and as soon as he turns around, Black clobbers him with a thunderous roundhouse kick! Then, in one fell swoop, Black slaps on his Blackout anaconda vise submission finisher!

Troy: Blackout! He has the Blackout locked in! GI Jew is in deep trouble!

Buckingham: I don’t believe this!

Jew struggles violently in the hold, doing everything in his power to keep from having to submit. Despite his best efforts, however, he is unable to escape the hold. Fortunately for Jew, he is somewhat close to the ropes. Using every last ounce of energy in his body, Jew lunges toward the ropes and is able to grab onto them, forcing the hold to be broken.

Buckingham: GI Jew is still alive!

Troy: What a tremendous back-and-forth war this has been!

Both Black and Jew are slow to their feet, but it is Black that is the aggressor when they both ultimately make it up. Stinging Jew with repeated knife-edge chops, Black weakens his challenger enough to whip him against the ropes, but when Jew returns, he finds Black’s head down, telegraphing a back body drop. Realizing this, Jew stops short, lifts Black up, and crushes him with a ferocious piledriver! Jew covers at length… one, two, thr-NO! Black gets the shoulder up!

Livid, Jew attempts another cover… one, two, and Black gets the shoulder up again!

Undaunted, Jew lifts Black up, looking for the Magnum Driver. However, Black slips out, only for Jew to turn around and nearly take his head off with a vicious clothesline. Jew goes for another cover… one, two, and Black escapes yet again!

Having now had enough of this match, Jew sets up for another Gore. He stalks Black, waiting for him to get to his feet, and as soon as he does, Jew charges forth with more velocity than at any previous point in this match. However, Black counters, nearly taking Jew’s head off with a violent superkick that stops GI Jew dead in his tracks, chopping him down like a lumberjack would a mighty oak! Jew crumbles to the mat and Black collapses on top of him… one, two, three!

Troy: Yes! Yes! Evan Black has done it! Evan Black has defeated GI Jew and retained the International Championship!

Buckingham: I really have nothing to say. I’ll give him this, it was an impressive win.

Troy: Indeed it was! GI Jew came here tonight to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt his supremacy over Evan Black, but on this night, it was Black who emerged victorious, beating Jew with no excuses and no controversy to retain his title! Congratulations, Evan!

The fans cheer thunderously as “Hero” replays and an exhausted Evan Black grabs his belt and exits the ring. GI Jew remains unconscious as Black stands at the foot of the curtain, triumphantly holding the belt high as we head to break.
WINNER VIA PINFALL AT 12:39 AND STILL INTERNATIONAL CHAMPION – EVAN BLACK

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

Back from commercial, we see backstage reporter Scott Cornelius standing with The Omega.

Cornelius: I’m here with The Omega, who has an update for us on the condition of his Synergy tag team partner Don “The MVP” Capriglione, who appeared to be injured quite badly during a match last week on this program. Omega, what can you tell us about The MVP’s status?

Omega: Well, the news isn’t good. Long story short, he broke his leg. He’s done for the season.

Cornelius: I’m sorry to hear that. If I might ask, what does that do to your plans this season?

Omega: Well obviously, goal number one was to capture the Tag Team Championship as a member of Synergy. With Don’s injury, that is going to be a little more difficult. But I’ve never been one to admit failure. So I’d like to announce that the search is on for a new member of Synergy to replace Don Capriglione. I don’t intend to let Synergy die, and I plan on this being a big season for my team.

Cornelius: Alright folks, you heard it here. The MVP is out for the season, but The Omega is on the lookout for a new member of Synergy. Traci, take it away.

***

The shot then shifts over to backstage reporter Traci Reed, who is standing by with the PWA Progressive Champion Paul Epton.

Traci: Thanks Scott. With me at this time is Paul Epton, the new Progressive Champion of the PWA and I suppose the de facto leader of the new cruiserweight division. Paul, how does it feel to be champion?

Epton: Well Traci, it certainly feels great, and it feels even better when you factor in how much my success bothers my former tag team partner John Wolfe. But I take this responsibility very seriously. As the first champion of a new division, I feel like its success rests on my shoulders and I don’t intend to let my fans down.

As Epton finishes speaking, he notices Matthew Magellan and his bodyguard Briggs walking into view.

Magellan: That was a pretty inspirational speech you just gave there, Epton.

Epton: I’m glad you enjoyed it.

Magellan: Oh I did, trust me. But let’s be honest here. The only reason you’re the Progressive Champion right now is because I happen to weigh 225 pounds, five pounds more than the cruiserweight limit. If I decided to lose five pounds and come after you, that title would be mine in no time.

Epton: Is that so?

Magellan: Oh it is.

Epton: Well then what’s stopping you? Lose your five pounds and I’d be happy to defend my title against you. In fact, I dare you to.

Magellan: You dare me?

Epton: I dare you.

Magellan: You know what, Epton? I’m losing the weight! And when I do, you can just kiss that championship goodbye!

Epton: We’ll see about that, Magellan.

Magellan storms off, but Briggs stays behind briefly to sneer at the Progressive Champion before turning to exit as we head to break.
 
-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

When we return, we hear “Free” by VAST blaring over the speakers and see Lauren Tantalus making her way down to the ring. A shot of the ring reveals Alexis Duval, Jade, Kemi Okoro, and Dee Licious already inside, ready for the next bout.

Troy: Alright folks, welcome back to PWA: The Rebirth. Coming up next is a women’s division battle royal in which the winner will challenge Zina for the championship next week.

Buckingham: Not only that, but the order of elimination here is going to determine the new 1-7 contendership rankings for the division.

Troy: So obviously, a lot at stake in this one.

As Lauren approaches the ring, “The Stone Monkey” by Kazu Matsui hits, bringing out Keiko Ishida. Keiko stares down newcomer Kemi Okoro the entire trip down the aisle. Kemi responds in kind.

When Keiko hits the ring, “Dead Promises” by The Rasmus hits, eliciting an explosion from the Rio crowd for Morgan Day! Morgan wastes little time hitting the ring, sliding into the squared circle in short order, prompting the bell to ring and this battle royal to get underway.

WOMEN’S DIVISION RANKINGS BATTLE ROYAL:
MORGAN DAY VS. KEIKO ISHIDA VS. LAUREN TANTALUS VS. ALEXIS DUVAL VS. JADE VS. KEMI OKORO VS. DEE LICIOUS
Outside Referees: Dan Martin and Jose Soares
Mere moments after the match begins, we have our first casualty, as Dee finds herself clotheslined up and over the top rope and out by Morgan. Dee slaps the mat in frustration, but quickly retreats to the back to prepare to escort Michael Grieco to the ring for his shot at the PWA Championship.

The battle rages on for a short while without an elimination, as Morgan battles Alexis, Keiko slugs it out with Kemi, and Lauren battles Jade. Then, finally, Jade succumbs to a back body drop from Lauren, tumbling over and out.

Lauren now gravitates into a battle with both Morgan and Alexis as Kemi and Keiko continue their brawl. Nothing remarkable happens for a brief period, until Kemi ducks under a Keiko clothesline and nails Ishida with a dropkick that sends her sailing to the outside!

Troy: I don’t believe it! Kemi Okoro has just eliminated Keiko Ishida!

Buckingham: And it’s much worse than just an elimination, Troy! Keiko is now just the fifth contender for the Women’s Championship! She has a real uphill battle ahead of her if she wants to become champion this season!

Furious, Keiko rolls right back into the ring and slaps Kemi in the face. When Kemi lunges back at Keiko, Alexis rushes over and dumps Kemi over the top!

Kemi and Keiko need to be separated as they battle all the way to the back. Meanwhile, Morgan and Lauren team up to clothesline Alexis over the top and eliminate her!

Troy: Alexis is gone! That means we’re down to just two!

Buckingham: Either Morgan Day or Lauren Tantalus is going to win number one contendership and a shot at Zina next week!

Morgan and Lauren tentatively lock up, with Lauren establishing the immediate advantage, tying her in a side headlock. Morgan powers out of it, shoving Lauren against the ropes, but when Lauren returns, she grabs Morgan in position for the Tiger Driver! However, Morgan uses her legs to drive Lauren back to the ropes and then turns around and back body drops her over the top rope, using Lauren’s own move against her!

Troy: That’s it! Morgan Day wins it!

Buckingham: Nice effort by Lauren, but Morgan will be challenging Zina next week!

A disappointed Lauren walks away from the ring, but Morgan celebrates her victory as “Dead Promises” replays. Moments later, with the crowd still cheering, the Women’s Champion Zina appears from behind the curtain, mockingly applauding Morgan’s victory. The two engage in a staredown ahead of next week’s championship bout as we head to commercial.
WINNER AT 4:23 – MORGAN DAY
RANKINGS – 1. Morgan Day, 2. Lauren Tantalus, 3. Alexis Duval, 4. Kemi Okoro, 5. Keiko Ishida, 6. Jade, 7. Dee Licious

***

The camera shifts to the locker room area, where backstage reporter Scott Cornelius is standing with Anthony Failla.

Cornelius: Alright, we’re just moments away from our main event, in which Michael Grieco will challenge Dan Crowley for the PWA Championship, but standing next to me is a former world champion in his own right, Anthony Failla, who lost the championship to Crowley last August at Everlasting Epic. Mr. Failla, one week from tonight, you will exercise your mandatory rematch clause to challenge for the gold. Do you have a preference as to who you face?

Failla: I don’t have a preference because, quite frankly, it doesn’t matter. Whether it’s Crowley or Grieco, there will be absolutely nothing stopping me from running over whoever has my title next week. Are you a betting man, Scott?

Cornelius: Well, I wouldn’t say that…

Failla: It doesn’t matter. Whether you are or you aren’t, I’d gather together all the money you can find and put it on Anthony Failla to win the PWA Championship next week. It’s not a question of if or when, only whether it’s Crowley or Grieco that I beat to do it.

Failla then walks off.

Cornelius: Alright, Anthony Failla will challenge for the championship next week, but in just a few moments, it will be Michael Grieco taking on the PWA Champion Dan Crowley with the gold on the line! We’ll be right back with our main event! Stay tuned!

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

As we return, “Da Repercussions” by 50 Cent hits and Michael Grieco makes his way to the ring accompanied by Dee Licious and a chorus of boos. Grieco is noticeably amped-up tonight, interacting with and taunting the Rio crowd all the way down the aisle. Finally, Grieco takes his place in the ring and begins bouncing in place, readying himself for the biggest opportunity of his career.

Moments later, “Judas Rising” by Judas Priest thumps onto the speakers and the crowd explodes for the PWA World Heavyweight Champion! Dan Crowley emerges, looking primed and ready for battle. He takes his time walking down the aisle, making Grieco marinate on the gravity of the match ahead of them. Finally, he enters the ring and hands the championship belt to referee Tom Stevens as Lee Palmer begins the introductions.

Palmer: Ladies and gentlemen, it is now time for our main event, scheduled for one fall, and it is for the PWA World Heavyweight Championship!

Introducing first, the challenger, from Staten Island, New York, weighing in at 251 pounds… MIIIICHAELLLLL GRIIIIIEEEEECOOOOOO!

And his opponent, from Long Island, New York, weighing in at 235 pounds, he is the PWA World Heavyweight Champion… DAAAAAANNNNN CRRRRRROWWWWWWLEEEEYYYYYY!

Troy: Alright, here we go! The first PWA Championship match of the season!

Buckingham: Sounds like a great time for the first title change of the season too!

PWA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP:
DAN CROWLEY (champion) VS. MICHAEL GRIECO (challenger)
Referee: Tom Stevens
The first thing Michael Grieco does in the opening moments of his first PWA Championship match after the bell sounds is flex his muscles at the reigning champion, prompting a wave of jeers to crash onto him. Crowley responds to this gesture with a roundhouse kick to the face, which Grieco is able to counter by catching the champion’s foot and downing him with a thunderous clothesline. With Crowley down, Grieco further incites the audience with more flexing.

Buckingham: Does this guy look like a champion or what?!

Troy: Are you seriously asking that question? All he’s done is pose!

Buckingham: And throw a damn impressive clothesline! Hell, give him a big boot and a legdrop and he could be the biggest star in wrestling history!

Troy: I’m not even gonna touch that…

Dee applauds her charge from the outside, who now unleashes an offensive assault on the champion. Grieco peppers Crowley with an array of kicks, making it difficult for the PWA Champion to get back to his feet. Finally, Grieco allows him to, after which he immediately whips him in the corner, following it up with a crushing clothesline. Then, as Crowley staggers out of the corner, Grieco grabs him and crushes him with an overhead belly-to-belly suplex. Grieco covers… one, two, and Crowley gets the shoulder up.

The challenger then moves behind Crowley and locks a sleeperhold on the still-downed champion, cinching it in tightly. Crowley at first appears to be fading in the hold, but then gets a burst of adrenaline from the Rio crowd, which rallies behind him. With the Brazilian faithful stomping their feet, Crowley is willed back first to a sitting position and then to a standing one, where he begins peppering Grieco with repeated elbows to the midsection. Finally, the hold is broken, allowing Crowley to bounce off the opposite ropes and nail Grieco with a dropkick as he returns! Crowley goes for the pin… one, two, and Grieco escapes.

Grieco gets back to his feet, but it is Crowley who is now in control, whipping Grieco into the corner and following him in with a thunderous clothesline! Then, as Grieco walks out of the corner, Crowley boots him in the gut and downs him with a hard suplex, floating over for a cover… one, two, and Grieco kicks out.

With Grieco down, Crowley now attempts a submission maneuver, locking in the Texas cloverleaf! The Rio crowd screams in support of the champion, but Grieco doesn’t intend to go down easy. With Dee pounding the mat in support, Grieco is able to crawl himself over to the ropes and grab them, forcing the hold to be broken.

Buckingham: Great ring presence right there by Michael Grieco. He didn’t need to expend a ton of energy trying to power out of the hold because he was close enough to the ropes to break it somewhat effortlessly.

Troy: Maybe so, but Dan Crowley is firmly in control of the match at this juncture. Grieco needs to do something to reverse this momentum or the champion will begin setting up for the end fairly soon.

That something winds up being a poke in the eye that referee Tom Stevens doesn’t quite catch, when Crowley moves to lift Grieco up from the mat. With Crowley momentarily incapacitated, Grieco chop blocks Crowley, cutting his legs out from under him. This gives Grieco the opening to stomp away on the champion, before lifting him up and whipping him chest-first into the turnbuckles. Crowley stumbles backwards, allowing Grieco to lift him and down him with a hard back suplex. Grieco covers… one, two, and Crowley gets the shoulder up.

Grieco pries Crowley off the mat, lifting him up and perching him on the top rope. He then climbs up after him, looking to superplex him back down to the ring. However, before he can, Crowley begins fighting his way out of it, ultimately shoving Grieco back to the ring to a roaring ovation. The champion then signals for the Shadow of the Nite, but Dee jumps onto the ring apron and grabs onto Crowley’s foot!

Troy: C’mon ref! That should be a disqualification! Dee has absolutely no business touching the champion!

Buckingham: Don’t be such a stick in the mud, Troy! Let them fight!

Referee Tom Stevens admonishes Dee for her interference, but amid the confusion, Grieco gets up and bounces off the ropes, causing Crowley to lose his balance and straddle the top turnbuckle. Seeing what Dee’s interference caused, Stevens ejects her, sending her back to the locker room!

Buckingham: That’s not fair! You can’t do that, ref!

Troy: Oh but he can, and oh but he has!

The fans cheer wildly as Dee protests her way to the locker room. Meanwhile, Grieco turns his attention back to the ring, where he climbs back to the top rope, again looking for a suplex. However, this time, he is able to nail the move with crushing authority! Grieco covers… one, two, and Crowley just gets the shoulder up!

Troy: Crowley is still alive!

Buckingham: But not for much longer! Grieco is signaling for the triple powerbomb! We’re about to crown a new champion!

The fans are filled with worry as Grieco lifts Crowley off the mat, getting him in powerbomb position. Grieco first takes time to kiss his own bicep, which gives Crowley just enough time to back body drop his way out of the predicament! Then, as soon as Grieco gets to his feet, Crowley blasts him with the Brutal Legend, right in the center of the ring! Crowley covers… one, two, three!

Troy: And that does it! Dan Crowley has retained the PWA Championship!

Buckingham: This never would have happened if the referee hadn’t sent Dee to the back!

The Rio de Janeiro crowd cheers thunderously as “Judas Rising” replays and Dan Crowley’s hand is raised in victory, still the PWA Champion. Grieco rolls out of the ring and out of sight as Crowley is given his championship belt and scales the turnbuckles, raising it high.
WINNER VIA PINFALL AT 10:05 AND STILL PWA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION – DAN CROWLEY

However, before Crowley can do too much celebrating, he is clubbed down from behind by Anthony Failla, who has rushed out from the back!

With the official powerless to stop him, Failla rips Crowley down from the turnbuckles and stomps him into oblivion, before lifting him up and absolutely destroying him with the Weapon of Mass Destruction! The fans boo mercilessly as Failla grabs the championship belt, the very same title he lost to Crowley this past August, and holds it high, standing above its rightful owner’s limp body.

Buckingham: Get used to that sight, Troy! One week from tonight, it will be official! Anthony Failla will once again reign as PWA Champion, and I can’t wait!

Troy: Believe me, Dan Crowley is going to have something to say about that next week! Folks, we’ll see you then! Goodnight everybody!


-- END SHOW --


Pre-Show Dark Matches:
1. Saif Al Abbad def. Kris Anthony with the Dubai Dazzler at 3:52. (Referee: Tom Stevens)
2. Jon Dulberg def. The Omega with the Walk-Off at 3:38. (Referee: Jose Soares)

Post-Show Dark Matches:
1. Six-Man Tag Team Match: PWA Tag Team Champions Vulture & Jason Calysto and Scythe def. Solomon, Anthony Failla, and Jackie Baccaro. Calysto forced Baccaro to submit to the Crossface at 8:13. (Referee: Dan Martin)