EPISODE # 2.11
INDIRA GANDHI ARENA
NEW DELHI, INDIA
TUESDAY, JULY 5, 2011
A video package airs, set to “Last Man
Standing” by Pop Evil, highlighting events that took place at the May 21
Symphony of Destruction pay-per-view, the last show before this season’s
six-week hiatus. In the package, we see clips of John Wolfe and Alexis Duval
walking out on Jackie Baccaro, leading to a vicious attack by Vulture and Chris
Duval that left Baccaro with a broken neck and out of action indefinitely. We
see Vulture turn his back on Jason Calysto and join forces with Greg Tantalus
to reform SIN with Markus Krieg, John Wolfe, and the Duval Twins en route to
winning the Symphony of Destruction match. Additionally, we see Showtime Damon
Savage defeat Dan Crowley to win his first 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 Indira Gandhi
Arena in New Delhi, India, where a stunning 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
back from our midseason hiatus with the first of 10 additional episodes!
Buckingham: Troy, let me be the first to say that it’s
been a great vacation, but I am amped to be back here tonight!
Troy: Folks, we certainly saw some shockers take place 45 nights ago at
Symphony of Destruction. As you saw on the video package that opened this
broadcast, there is once again Strength In Numbers in
the PWA. Close to eight years after disbanding, Vulture and Greg Tantalus have
joined forces as SIN once again, this time with Markus Krieg, John Wolfe, and
the Duval Twins in their camp. It was as though Tantalus executed something of
a trade, exchanging Jackie Baccaro for Vulture and Chris Duval, which brought
about the resurgence of SIN.
Buckingham: And that’s a move that has put Baccaro on the shelf for God knows
how long with a broken neck and led to Vulture winning the Symphony of
Destruction match to claim a guaranteed shot at the PWA World Heavyweight
Championship at Everlasting Epic.
Troy: And that SOD victory happened at the expense of Jason Calysto. Folks, the
match came down to Vulture, Tantalus, and Calysto, at which point it was
expected that Vulture and Calysto would work together to eliminate Tantalus and
then battle it out amongst themselves. Instead, it was Vulture and Tantalus who
laid down a vicious assault on Calysto, with Vulture essentially turning his
back on him to have the SOD win virtually handed to him. Calysto caught
Tantalus in the Crossface, who held on just long enough for Vulture to move
into position. Then, when Tantalus tapped and Calysto
got to his feet, Vulture charged him, devastated him with the running knee, and
then hit him with the Crimson Sunset for the win.
Buckingham: It was a plan that was executed to absolute perfection, first with
Wolfe and Alexis abandoning Baccaro for the assault earlier in the evening, and
then in the SOD.
Troy: And sadly, folks, it was a plan that appears to
have cost us Jason Calysto. Ever since leaving the broadcast booth about one
year ago, Jason Calysto has been on something of a farewell tour, going out and
entertaining the fans each and every night, making the performance his top
priority. Calysto has said numerous times that the only reason he was still
competing was because he was having fun. Well, according to my sources, Jason
Calysto was working on a handshake deal since coming out of retirement, with
the ability to walk away whenever he chose. And the word I have received is
that The Iceman Jason Calysto has opted not to sign on for the second half of
the season and is no longer a member of the active PWA roster.
Buckingham: Good riddance!
Troy: Good riddance?!
Buckingham: Yeah! What a crybaby! Way to back down from a fight, Calysto!
Troy: Are you serious?! These men have been friends for over 30 years, Randall.
And I’m sure, in Calysto’s mind, Vulture’s decision at SOD meant that if The
Iceman returns to the PWA for the rest of this season, he’s going to war with
Vulture and SIN. Maybe after 30 years of friendship, at this point in his
career, that’s just not a road he wants to go down. And you know what, Randall?
I respect that.
Buckingham: Well that makes one of us.
Troy: But folks, that’s not all that happened at the SOD. We also saw a new PWA
Champion crowned when Showtime Damon Savage defeated Dan Crowley to win the
championship.
Buckingham: I really don’t care for either of them, but I have to give credit
where credit is due. That was a fantastic match, and it’s hard to say Showtime
didn’t deserve that win.
Troy: I have to agree there. But folks, that was then, and this is now! We have
a tremendous show for you tonight, and in our main event, we’re going to see a
rematch from SOD as Showtime defends his newly-acquired championship against
the man he won it from, Dan Crowley! But before that, we’re going to see a
battle royal to determine the new number one contender to Chase Stone’s
International Championship!
Buckingham: We’re also going to see a six-woman tag team match, where Zina will
team with Keiko Ishida and Alexis Duval to face the team of Kemi Okoro, Morgan
Day, and the new Women’s Champion Lauren Tantalus. Does that have a terrible
sound to it or what?
Troy: More on that later tonight, but Randall, we’re about to kick things off! Let’s
send it down to Lee Palmer at ringside!
***
We now see ring announcer Lee Palmer
standing in the squared circle, microphone in hand.
Palmer: Ladies and gentlemen, please
welcome the NEW PWA World Heavyweight Champion… SHOWWWTIIIIIME DAAAAAMONNNNN SAAAAAA-VAAAAAGE!
With that, “No Country for Young Men” by Ice Cube thumps onto the speakers
and the fans give a roaring ovation to Showtime Damon Savage, who finally
captured his first world championship just over six weeks ago at Symphony of
Destruction. Showtime emerges from behind the curtain with a wide smile on his
face, soaking in the adulation of the crowd and enjoying every second of the
moment he’s waited his entire career for. Finally, Showtime grabs a microphone
and enters the ring.
Showtime: What up New Delhi!
The Indian crowd cheers wildly.
Showtime: You know, Showtime doesn’t get
humbled by all that much, but this is a damn humbling experience right now.
It’s been eight years since Showtime first showed his face here in the PWA, and
it’s been a struggle each and every day just to reach this point. But, after
eight long years, the wait is over. Showtime Damon Savage is champion of the
world!
The cheers continue to rain down on Showtime in the ring.
Showtime: Now, technically, Showtime has held
this championship for 45 days, but up until Saturday, the title reign was
without any defenses. But at live events in Malaysia, Singapore, and right here
in India last night, Showtime is now three for three in title defenses. And
you’d better get used to seeing that. As long as Showtime Damon Savage is
champion of the world, you are going to see this title on the line every chance
possible. And in case you haven’t heard, that starts with tonight. At Symphony
of Destruction, Showtime was taken to the absolute limit by his amigo Dan
Crowley, a man who carried this title proudly right up until Symphony of
Destruction. Tonight, after six weeks of healing his broken ribs, Crowley is
exercising his rematch clause, and Showtime couldn’t think of a better opponent
for his first televised title defense. So Crowley, Showtime knows you’re
watching in the back, and he hopes you’re ready. Because after all Showtime
went through to win this title, it’s not changing hands tonight and that’s for
damn sure!
The fans continue to cheer until moments later, when red light fills the
arena and the words “perhaps you had better start from beginning” echo over the
speakers. Lurking onto the speakers is, of course, “Electric Head Pt.1: The
Agony” by White Zombie, the theme music of Strength In
Numbers, better known as SIN. Though there are some residual cheers, the vast
majority of fans boo loudly as Vulture and Greg Tantalus lead Markus Krieg,
John Wolfe, and the Duval Twins down the aisle and into the ring. For his part,
PWA Champion Showtime Damon Savage does not appear to be intimidated and stands
tall as the group enters the ring. When inside, Greg Tantalus grabs a
microphone and begins speaking to the crowd.
Tantalus: Listen up! Everyone shut the
hell up and give your undivided attention to the winner of the 2011 Symphony of
Destruction, Vulture!
The fans boo and Showtime rolls his eyes as Tantalus hands Vulture the
microphone.
Vulture: Thank you. Now, for starters,
I’d just like to—
Showtime: Is there a point to you being out here? Showtime doesn’t take too
kindly to being interrupted.
Vulture: Is that so? Well, Showtime, if you have a problem with us being out
here, then perhaps you should make us all leave.
Showtime takes a step towards Vulture, not backing down in the least. The
rest of SIN each takes a step forward as well. Vulture merely smiles.
Vulture: Trust me, Showtime,
there will be a time for fighting. But you’re going to want to hear what I have
to say. After all, if you’re able to hang onto that championship for the next
10 weeks, then it will be the two of us competing for it at Everlasting Epic.
But before we get into any of that, I suppose I have a bit of explaining to do.
Ever since Symphony of Destruction, fans have been coming up to me with
stupefied looks on their faces, in utter disbelief that I would do what I did.
So for all you fans who feel let down by my actions, allow me to explain
myself.
Really, you can take this back to seven
weeks ago tonight, when Jackie Baccaro decided to lay his hands on my daughter.
It’s no secret that my son Chris and I have been trying to show Alexis what a
miserable scumbag Jackie Baccaro is for months. That night, she was given
unequivocal proof. Following this incident, my son and I were enraged to say
the least. But it was Chris who got in contact with Alexis and arranged a
meeting between me, them, and Mr. Wolfe over here, with the idea being that
Wolfe and Alexis would abandon Baccaro and allow Chris and myself to finish
what I should have finished five years ago. There was no doubt about it in
either Chris’ mind or my own: it was time for Jackie Baccaro to go.
But when it was time for this meeting, we found ourselves not with just Wolfe
and Alexis; Greg Tantalus and Markus Krieg took it upon themselves to show up,
and in retrospect, I’m glad they did. Tantalus made me the same offer he made
several weeks back: to reform SIN. Now, as you’ll remember, Tantalus and I
hadn’t exactly been on the same page in the weeks prior; in fact, I was growing
more and more frustrated with each passing week, consumed with the notion that
Tantalus and his new group would keep me from winning the SOD and earning a
shot at the title. So, when Tantalus included in his offer a promise that the
sole priority in the SOD match would be to ensure my victory if at all
possible, it was an offer I felt was too good to pass up. Now, not only do I
have a guaranteed title shot, not only have we rid the PWA of that piece of
garbage Baccaro, but I’ve reunited my children, and for once, I’m actually on
the same page with them and getting to know them, and it’s absolutely
fantastic.
Chris and Alexis walk up and hug their father, who then turns back to
Tantalus.
Vulture: So Greg, I have to say thank you.
Vulture shakes Tantalus’ hand to a chorus of boos. Upon hearing the boos, an angered Tantalus flips off the New Delhi crowd,
which leads only to more boos.
Showtime: Are you done yet?!
The fans cheer loudly at Showtime’s interruption, which only serves to
anger Vulture and Tantalus.
Showtime: Did you guys get a format
sheet? Last I checked, the first segment tonight says “Showtime addresses the
crowd.” You know what isn’t on there? “SIN comes out and rambles on and on and
on.” Couldn’t you have just posted all that on the website or something? Did
you really need to come out here, interrupt Showtime, and waste everyone’s time
with that? We get it, Vulture. You came out here each and every week and
accepted the love and support of all these people, and you were content to do
that until it was no longer benefiting you. You turned Tantalus down a few
months back because you wanted to get back to the top of the mountain on your
own. What happened? You realized you couldn’t do it on your own? Because that’s how Showtime sees it.
Vulture: Keep running your mouth, Showtime. That’s what you do best. You asked
why we were out here. I’ll tell you why. We came out here to wish you luck
tonight against Crowley. Because Showtime, to be perfectly honest, I’d much
rather face you than Crowley at Everlasting Epic. Dan Crowley is a man. Dan
Crowley deserves to be champion. Dan Crowley would be a worthy challenge on the
biggest stage this company has to offer. You? You’re a
sideshow act. You’re a supporting character. You are not a star. And if you
stopped speaking in the third person for a few minutes, you’d realize how over
your head you are right now. So enjoy your title reign while you can. Smart
money is on it not lasting past tonight.
Showtime: Showtime is gonna do whatever he wants to do, and he’s
gonna say whatever he wants to say. And when Everlasting Epic rolls around,
Vulture, Showtime will be there, still PWA Champion, and his left fist is gonna
shatter your dreams and your jaw.
Vulture simply smirks at the champion as “No Country for Young Men”
replays. Showtime is ready for a fight, but Vulture opts not to give it to him,
instead directing the troops to retreat as we head to our first break.
Troy: Folks, what an electric start to
tonight’s broadcast! And of course, our PWA Championship rematch is still to
come tonight when Showtime defends the gold against Dan Crowley!
Buckingham: But first, we have a six-woman tag team match, right after this!
-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --
Back from break, “Demons” by Aria is
blaring over the speakers and Zina makes her way to the ring. Keiko Ishida and
Alexis Duval, her partners for the evening, are already inside.
Troy: Alright folks, welcome back to PWA:
The Rebirth, and as you can see, Zina does NOT have
the Women’s Championship belt around her waist, and that is because she lost
the championship at Symphony of Destruction to Lauren Tantalus.
Buckingham: It was pretty crazy. Lauren was incapacitated for most of the last
few minutes of the match, leaving Morgan Day and Zina to battle it out, and
after a Sharpshooter, a roundhouse kick to the face, a moonsault, and the
Daybreak, Morgan became the first woman to ever pin Zina’s shoulders to the mat
for a three count. However, seconds after this, Lauren, who hadn’t been
eliminated, rushed back into the ring, hit Morgan with the Tiger Driver and, in
my opinion, stole the Women’s Championship.
Troy: Really? Stole the title? Lauren operated completely within the boundaries
of the rules and won that match fair and square. She absolutely deserves to be
champion.
Buckingham: You can say that it was within the rules, but it seemed pretty
underhanded to me.
Troy: Well, in any event, the three women will get an opportunity to do it over
next week in Dubai, when Lauren defends the title against Morgan and Zina in a
triple threat match. Note that it is a triple threat match, not a triangle
elimination match, so this time, the first woman to score a pinfall or
submission on either of her two opponents will leave Dubai the Women’s
Champion.
Buckingham: All I know is that I wouldn’t want to get anywhere close to Zina
with the mood she’s been in since losing the title.
As Zina settles herself in the ring, “Baai” by Abdel Gadir Salim and
Emmanuel Jal hits the speakers and the fans cheer loudly for Kemi Okoro. Kemi
walks down the aisle and stands at the foot of the ring before “Hysteria” by
Muse hits and Morgan Day enters to a thunderous ovation.
Troy: And here comes Morgan Day! Randall,
Morgan has been at the center of controversy since Symphony of Destruction for
more than just the Women’s Championship match. As we know, Vulture has joined
forces with Greg Tantalus and reformed SIN with Markus Krieg, John Wolfe, and
the Duval Twins. However, as we saw both in Tokyo on May 21st and earlier
tonight, Morgan Day has not been present with the rest of SIN, leading to the
conclusion that she isn’t a member.
Buckingham: Well yeah, I thought that was obvious.
Troy: But don’t you think it’s unusual that Vulture joins Tantalus and reforms
SIN, reunites his children, sells out his best friend, gets himself this world
title shot under fairly nefarious circumstances, but then doesn’t bring his
wife into the group? Did they have a falling out?
Buckingham: Greg Tantalus doesn’t have his sister Lauren in the group either
for that matter. Does that mean they hate each other? Hardly.
It just means they don’t see eye to eye on this issue. Do I think Morgan Day
not being a part of SIN means that she and Vulture had a falling out? Absolutely not. They could have, certainly, but I haven’t
seen any evidence to indicate that.
Morgan takes her place next to Kemi on the arena floor before “Free” by
VAST hits the speakers and the PWA Women’s Champion Lauren Tantalus emerges to
a throng of cheers. There is a brief but noticeable scowl on Morgan’s face as
she sees Lauren walk down the aisle with the title, but it evaporates before
Lauren joins them and they all enter the ring.
SIX-WOMAN TAG TEAM MATCH:
PWA WOMEN’S CHAMPION LAUREN TANTALUS, MORGAN DAY, AND KEMI OKORO VS. ZINA,
KEIKO ISHIDA, AND ALEXIS DUVAL
Referee: Dan Martin
Zina stands in the ring as the bell
sounds, demanding Morgan start the match off with her. Morgan obliges and Zina
immediately rushes at her, pounding away with clubbing blows. She pounds Morgan
down to a knee before Morgan is able to fight back to a vertical base and daze
Zina with several forearms. Morgan then tries to dart at Zina, but Zina
reverses Morgan’s momentum and sends her crashing into her own corner. Zina
then rushes at Morgan, but Lauren tags herself in before impact. Zina crushes Morgan
in the corner with a splash, but Lauren climbs to the top rope and downs her
with a missile dropkick!
Troy: Look at Lauren go!
Buckingham: She’s only making Zina angrier, Troy!
Lauren goes for a cover, but Zina hurls Lauren off and then downs her with
a clothesline. Lauren gets back to her feet and charges at Zina, but Zina
catches her and crushes her with a thunderous powerslam! Zina takes a moment to
let out a guttural yell, giving Lauren an opening to reach out and tag Kemi
Okoro into the bout. Upon doing so, Keiko asks Zina for the tag, which she
obliges.
Kemi and Keiko approach one another in the center of the ring and it is Kemi
who establishes the early advantage, keeping Keiko off base with a series of
hard knife-edge chops. Kemi whips Keiko against the ropes and downs her with a
flying forearm! Keiko then rises, giving Kemi an opening to climb to the top
rope and attempt a flying cross body, but Keiko sidesteps it before making the
tag to Alexis.
SIN member Alexis Duval enters the ring and immediately begins stomping away on
Kemi, showing renewed aggression and passion. Alexis continues the assault on
Kemi for several moments before Okoro is able to counter an attempted running
clothesline with a tornado DDT, giving her an opening to tag in Morgan Day!
Troy: Here comes Morgan!
Buckingham: And she’ll be locking it up with her stepdaughter!
Morgan enters and immediately downs the
rising Alexis with a clothesline. Then, as Alexis gets to her feet, Morgan
whips her against the ropes and nails her with a back body drop as she returns!
Building momentum, Morgan looks for a roundhouse kick to the face as Alexis
again rises, but Alexis is able to duck under it and counter with a hard
backbreaker. Alexis then lifts Morgan, setting her up for her flip piledriver,
but Lauren enters the ring and clotheslines Alexis to the mat!
The fans cheer, but Morgan gets to her feet and shouts at Lauren, questioning
why she felt the need to interfere. As they argue, Alexis makes the tag to Zina
before clobbering Lauren with a flying forearm, knocking her through the ropes.
Then, as Morgan turns around, she is absolutely destroyed by the Siberian
Express bicycle kick from Zina! Keiko enters and knocks Kemi off the ring apron
as Zina covers Morgan… one, two, three.
Buckingham: And just like that, Zina is
back on the winning track!
Troy: And if she pins Morgan again next week, she’ll
be a two-time Women’s Champion!
Buckingham: Troy, if there’s anything I’m sure of, it’s that Zina will defeat
Morgan and Lauren in next week’s triple threat match and reclaim the Women’s
Championship!
The fans boo as “Demons” replays and Zina celebrates the victory with Keiko
and Alexis. Kemi checks on the semi-conscious Morgan in the ring while Zina
gets right in Lauren’s face and signals around her waist that she is coming for
the championship. Lauren, to her credit, doesn’t back down, staring down the
much-larger Zina as the camera fades.
WINNERS VIA PINFALL AT 6:22 – ZINA, KEIKO ISHIDA, AND ALEXIS
DUVAL
***
We
now shift to the backstage area, where backstage reporter Traci Reed is
standing with Dan Crowley.
Traci: Ladies and gentlemen, with me at
this time is former PWA World Heavyweight Champion Dan Crowley, a man who has
the opportunity to remove that “former” tag later this evening, when he
challenges Showtime Damon Savage for the gold. Dan, what is going through your
mind right now when you think about the fact that a loss tonight will send you
to the back of the line?
Crowley: Well Traci, thinking about it like that certainly adds an extra layer
of pressure, but believe me, there’s a tremendous amount of pressure tonight
regardless. First things first, I need to publicly congratulate Showtime on
defeating me at Symphony of Destruction and winning the title. People have been
talking a lot about my injured ribs and how it affected me at SOD, but I am not
making any excuses. I gave Showtime everything I had at SOD and he was the
better man that night, so for that, I congratulate him. But tonight, after 45
days of rest and relaxation, I’m all healed up and ready to go, and tonight,
that championship is coming home with me.
Before Traci can ask a follow-up question, she and Crowley suddenly find
themselves in the presence of SIN. Traci takes her cue to flee as a semi-circle
forms around Crowley. The former champion is prepared for a fight, but Vulture
attempts to diffuse the situation by offering his hand to Crowley.
Vulture: Good luck tonight, Dan.
Crowley is still reluctant to shake his hand.
Crowley: Thanks.
But something tells me this isn’t a social visit.
Vulture: You’ve always been pretty sharp, haven’t you? You’re absolutely right.
This is a business proposition, Dan. If anyone knows SIN the way Tantalus and I
do, it’s you. You were a valued asset to this group for nine months the first
time around. You can be again. Think about it. I have the Everlasting Epic
title shot in the bag. If you join us, we make sure you walk out of here
tonight the new champion. Then, we make sure you hang onto that title all the
way up to Everlasting Epic, where you and I can tear the house down in an
all-SIN main event with the title on the line. Think about it. Everlasting Epic main event, SIN vs. SIN for the world title.
If we control Everlasting Epic, we control the PWA. The sky is the limit. I
know how badly you want to be champion again, believe me. I want it just as
badly. Shake my hand and join us and that title will be yours tonight.
Crowley: Am I really supposed to just believe that and follow you guys? Sure,
you might help me win the title tonight, but what happens when we face off at
Everlasting Epic? Am I really supposed to believe this isn’t just an elaborate
plot to screw me over at EE and take the title for yourself? You’re right,
Vulture. I know SIN well. Too well, in fact. Well
enough to know that the only people who ever get ahead in SIN are you and
Tantalus. And all the rest of you, Krieg, Wolfe, Chris, Alexis, you all should
know that too. So let me respectfully decline your offer and tell you that I
will never again be a member of SIN. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a
championship match to prepare for.
Vulture and Tantalus look at each other
and smirk before clearing a path and letting Crowley exit unharmed. Tantalus
then turns to Vulture.
Vulture: Well, I’ll give him some credit.
He’s not an idiot.
Tantalus: Should I make the call?
Vulture: Yeah. I think it’s time. Make the call.
-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --
We are taken backstage where we see
Jade reading a card, shaking her head as she does so, with her mouth contorting
into a disgusted scowl with each passing line that she reads. Jade storms away
as the cameras follow her to outside the dressing room of PWA Progressive
Champion Matthew Magellan, who Jade now officially manages beginning tonight.
Briggs is standing outside and pushes the door open for Jade, who walks into
the dimly-lit dressing room to find Matthew Magellan clad in a leopard print
silk robe, lying on a circular bed, the air heavily perfumed with his musky
cologne. The room is filled with lit candles and Luther Vandross is playing in
the background.
Jade: What’s the
meaning of this card? Can you possibly be more disgusting?!
Magellan: Oh
Jade, I see you got my letter welcoming you to the team. As you can see here,
I’ve taken the liberty to set up your new office. I wanted to make you feel as
comfortable and relaxed as possible on your first day as my manager. Perhaps
some champagne and a sensual massage will do the trick to make you feel right
at home?
Jade: (scoffing
at Magellan) I don’t want a massage, and If I did, you certainly wouldn’t be
the one to give it to me.
Magellan: Ah,
ready to get right down to business. I like that. Well, if you’re ready to
work, I have a seat for you right here.
Magellan motions to his lap.
Magellan: Why don’t you come sit down and we can take
care of any business that “pops up.”
Jade: GOD,
you’re pathetic, you know that? Listen, you won the Progressive title, so a
deal’s a deal, you’ve got me as your manager. But if you think for one second
you are going to impress me with your ridiculous robe, the candlelight, the
music, and the massage offers, then I don’t know what kind of a woman you take
me for. I’m your manager, not your whore. And as your manager, can you please
tell me why the hell you are sitting here in that ridiculous bed wearing that
ridiculous robe when you’re competing in a battle royal for a shot at the
International Championship in like five minutes?!
Magellan: Not to worry.
Magellan then disrobes to reveal his
full ring attire. Jade shakes her head.
Jade: I’ll meet you out there.
Jade turns to leave, but stops short and turns back to
Magellan.
Jade: And one other thing: I would get your money back for that cologne you
bought. It makes you smell like a fat man trapped in a funeral home on a hot
summer day.
Jade then pushes past Briggs and exits the dressing
room. Briggs enters the room.
Briggs: So, what
happened?
Magellan: It was
a good first day on the job, Briggsy. She’s just playing hard to get. But I’ll
wear her down. That’s why they call me The Conquistador.
Briggs: Well, I mean, really you just call yourself that.
Magellan glares at Briggs.
Briggs: But it’s obviously a factual
statement.
Magellan nods in agreement as the shot fades.
***
Elsewhere in the backstage area,
backstage reporter Scott Cornelius is standing by with the Alaskan Monster
Solomon, who is wearing a noticeable scowl on his face.
Cornelius: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here
with Solomon, a man who was eliminated from the Symphony of Destruction match
six weeks ago by Evan Black, this after Solomon declared that he would win that
match and go on to the main event of Everlasting Epic. Solomon, with the
Everlasting Epic main event now off the table, what are your goals for the
remainder of the season?
Solomon: Eliminated from the Symphony of Destruction by Evan Black. By EVAN… BLACK. How pathetic does
that sound? I’ve had to live with that for the past six weeks, but I should
point out that it was a tandem effort from Black and from my old “pal” GI Jew
that took me out. A Gore and a Magnum Driver from Jew and Black’s Law and a
superkick from Black, to be precise. I can’t really name a mortal man who could
survive those moves in succession. But in the end, my shoulders were pinned to
the mat for three seconds by EVAN… BLACK. You asked me
what my plans were for the rest of this season? I
think the obvious answer is to make Evan Black regret ever trying to embarrass
the Alaskan Monster.
With that, we head to commercial.
Troy: Folks, stick with us! A battle
royal to determine the number one contender to Chase Stone’s International
Championship is up next!
-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --
Back from break, “Hero” by Nas
featuring Keri Hilson is blaring over the speakers and we can see Evan Black
making his way to a ring that is chock full of PWA talent. Already in the ring
is PWA Progressive Champion Matthew Magellan, fellow cruiserweights Dexter P.
Wellington, Paul Epton, Saif al Abbad, Asai Moon, Juan Pablo Alvarez, and Fenix
Clarke, Magellan’s bodyguard Briggs, PWA Tag Team Champions Maddox Tate and
Pitbull, Paul Dawkins and Renegade, members of the new Synergy The Omega and
Darrin Giles, Michael Grieco, Jon Dulberg, Rich Revis, and GI Jew. Black
receives a huge ovation as he adds himself to the mass of humanity in the ring.
Troy: Alright folks, welcome back to The
Rebirth. In just a few moments, we’re going to have ourselves a battle royal in
which the winner will earn himself the status as number one contender to Chase
Stone’s International Championship, with a title opportunity guaranteed in the
near future. And who better to win this battle royal than a man who came DAMN
close to winning the Symphony of Destruction six weeks ago?!
Buckingham: Troy, Evan Black had one hell of a performance in the SOD, but a
battle royal is a whole different animal. A match like the SOD is all about
endurance and perseverance, but a straight-up battle royal favors mass and
brute strength. Somebody like Briggs, for instance, has a better chance in this
thing than Evan Black, in my opinion.
Troy: I question why Evan Black would even need to earn a shot at the
International title. To my knowledge, he never received a rematch for the gold
after losing it to Chase Stone back in April.
Buckingham: Well then he should consider this a great low-risk opportunity. No
matter what happens, he still has a return match in the bag.
As Black settles himself in the ring, White Zombie’s “Electric Head Pt. 1:
The Agony” overtakes the speakers and the fans begin booing as Markus Krieg,
John Wolfe, and Chris Duval start down the aisle in tandem.
Buckingham: Troy, I think the winner of
this battle royal is walking down the aisle right now. I’m not sure which of
the three it will be, but I have to think that SIN is going to have the
advantage here.
Troy: Maybe so, but don’t forget, this battle royal still contains 19 non-SIN
members. If they all agree to work together, SIN won’t stand a chance.
Buckingham: But when was the last time you saw 19 wrestlers agree on anything?
Troy: You do have a point.
Krieg, Wolfe, and Duval enter the ring, rounding out the field of 22. Upon
their entry, the bell sounds, kicking off this number one contendership battle
royal.
22-MAN INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP NO. 1
CONTENDERSHIP BATTLE ROYAL
Featuring: PWA Progressive Champion
Matthew Magellan, Dexter P. Wellington, Paul Epton, Saif al Abbad, Asai Moon,
Juan Pablo Alvarez, Fenix Clarke, Briggs, PWA Tag Team Champions Maddox Tate and
Pitbull, Paul Dawkins, Renegade, The Omega, Darrin Giles, Michael Grieco, Jon
Dulberg, Rich Revis, GI Jew, Evan Black, Markus Krieg, Chris Duval, and John
Wolfe
Outside Referees: Tom Stevens, Jose
Soares
Chaos reigns once we get underway, with
all the bodies in the ring going at one another ferociously. The SIN strategy
comes to the forefront immediately, with Wolfe and Duval forming a wall around
Krieg, who picks off anyone who gets too close to him. This plan spells the end
for Renegade, The Omega, and Juan Pablo Alvarez in quick succession, all
violently tossed over the top and out by the massive Krieg.
The strategy works effectively at first, but quickly draws the attention of
others such as GI Jew and Evan Black, who begin trying to rally troops. Soon,
Rich Revis, Jon Dulberg, Paul Dawkins, Paul Epton, Saif al Abbad, and Asai Moon
have joined their cause and all make a huge charge for SIN!
Troy: It might not be all 19, but SIN is
now outnumbered eight to three!
Epton and Revis double-team Wolfe while Saif and Asai occupy Duval, leaving
Jew, Black, Dulberg, and Dawkins for Krieg! The gargantuan German does his best
to stave off the assault, but 4-on-1 is simply too much for him, as he is
dumped out of the ring by the foursome to a roaring ovation!
Troy: That’s a huge game-changer right
there! Markus Krieg will not be getting another shot at Chase Stone!
Buckingham: No he won’t, and if Wolfe and Duval don’t watch themselves, no one
from SIN will be getting that opportunity!
Immediately after Krieg’s elimination, Duval fights his way to safety and
positions himself next to Wolfe. The two then form a barrier around each other,
managing to flee the immediate danger zone and escape the threat. This
momentary escape allows Fenix Clarke to swoop in and charge Epton,
clotheslining him with such ferocity that both tumble over the top and to the
outside! However, even elimination can’t contain their brawling as Clarke and
Epton battle their way backstage, with Emily Walker shouting trash talk at
Epton the whole way back.
The seven other men who tried to organize the SIN ousting are now also occupied
by other battles. Jew and Black have now turned the tables on each other,
continuing their on-again, off-again feud. Dulberg now finds himself in a war
with Michael Grieco while their respective managers Kerry Cox and Dee Licious
shout instructions from the outside. Dawkins and Revis are occupied by Matthew
Magellan and Briggs. Saif is grappling with Dex Wellington. And Asai Moon finds
himself in a slugfest with Darrin Giles, one that concludes with Asai
clotheslining the Synergy member over the top and to the outside! The fans
cheer the elimination, but the cheers cease when Wolfe and Duval, who were
lying in the weeds, emerge from hiding to dispose of Asai! After the
elimination, Wolfe and Duval retreat back to safety.
With Dawkins sufficiently occupying Matthew Magellan, Revis is left to battle
Briggs on his own. After a back-and-forth exchange, Revis is able to knock
Briggs over the top and to the outside with a shoulderblock, eliminating him!
Troy: Briggs is gone! Rich Revis has just
followed up his Symphony of Destruction elimination of Briggs with an elimination in tonight’s battle royal!
Buckingham: That is impressive, I’ll admit it.
After this, Dawkins continues his battle with
Magellan, only to be clubbed down from behind by Maddox Tate and Pitbull.
Dawkins attempts to fight off the Tag Team Champions, but they appear to be too
much for him. However, Jaguar rushes down the aisle to a roaring ovation, catching
the attention of Texas Justice! Jaguar hops onto the apron, allowing Tate and
Pitbull to grab him, but this provides enough of an opening for Dawkins to dump
both of them to the outside!
Troy: Tate and Pitbull are history!
Buckingham: That damned Jaguar! He has no business out here!
On the outside, Jaguar takes the fight to Tate and Pitbull, but before the
two-on-one advantage can become too much to bear, Renegade rushes back out from
the locker room and assists Jaguar in the battle! As they make their way to the
back, however, Dawkins finds himself tosses over the top by an opportunistic
Wolfe and Duval!
Buckingham: The teamwork of Wolfe and
Duval strikes again! They are down to the final 10!
With only 10 men remaining in the match, the action becomes significantly
easier to follow. Wolfe and Duval search for a new target and quickly settle on
Rich Revis, beating him down ferociously. Jew and Black continue their battle
while Dulberg and Grieco do the same. And Wellington and Magellan form an alliance
of sorts, double-teaming Saif. However, with Saif set up on the ropes,
Wellington and Magellan both charge at him, but Saif has the wherewithal to
back body drop both of them over the top, eliminating them! Saif then takes a
momentary breather before assisting Revis in his battle with SIN.
Moments later, the battle between Dulberg and Grieco comes to a close when
Dulberg counters an attempted clothesline with a back body drop over the top
rope! Infuriated, Grieco and Dee retreat to the backstage
area.
At this point, with seven men remaining in the match, “Hear Me” by Darkseed
suddenly blasts onto the speakers and the Alaskan Monster Solomon begins making
his way to the ring. Solomon’s entrance serves to freeze Evan Black in his
tracks, as he immediately takes his attention off GI Jew and turns it to
Solomon. However, this momentary distraction allows Jew to grab Black and dump
him to the outside!
Troy: That’s it for Evan Black! He won’t
be getting the next shot at Chase Stone, but I think he’s got bigger problems
than that right now!
With Black down, Solomon pounces like a jungle cat, lifting Black up and
whipping him thunderously into the steel steps. Solomon then lifts Black up and
attempts to Deep Freeze him into the steel ringpost, the same thing he did to
him the night he cost him the International Championship, but Black is able to
pound Solomon with enough elbows to the jaw to break free! Then, Black
clotheslines Solomon over the guardrail and takes the battle into the crowd!
Black gets some good shots in on the Alaskan Monster in the crowd before
Solomon takes the advantage, but security shortly thereafter rushes over to
break up the brawl. An intense Black shouts at security to let them fight while
a wide-eyed Solomon is speechless with rage and embarrassment.
Troy: Randall, there is no other way to
put it: Evan Black is not afraid of Solomon!
Buckingham: I’m not sure if he’s really brave or really stupid, but Solomon has
declared war on Evan Black, and Black doesn’t appear
to be backing down in the least!
Meanwhile, back in the ring, GI Jew pauses for a moment to revel in his
elimination of Black, but that pause allows Dulberg to rush over and
clothesline Jew to the outside!
Buckingham: What?! Jon Dulberg just
eliminated GI Jew?! This is an outrage!
The fans cheer wildly, but Jew has the last laugh on Dulberg, who smirks at
Jew from inside the ring. Jew gets up and scoffs at Dulberg before immediately
unleashes a furious Gore on Dulberg’s manager Cox! The Hardcore Icon is
wounded, but Dulberg is horrified and enraged. Jew then returns the smirk to
Dulberg he retreats to the back. Meanwhile, this distraction leaves Dulberg
vulnerable for Chris Duval to break away from his battle and dump him to the
outside!
Troy: And now Dulberg is eliminated!
Dulberg immediately tends to Cox on the outside as the battle rages on
inside the ring. As soon as Duval turns around, Saif charges at him, nailing
him with a clothesline that sends both men tumbling over the top and out!
Troy: How about that?! So much for the
SIN advantage! Saif just eliminated Chris Duval!
Buckingham: He did, but the dope eliminated himself in
the process! What good is it to him that only John Wolfe remains now? He’ll see
no benefit!
Troy: But perhaps Rich Revis will! Folks, we’re down to our final two! It’s Rich Revis and John Wolfe, and one of these men will
emerge the number one contender for Chase Stone’s International Championship!
Wolfe and Revis lock up in the center of the ring, but Revis quickly
overpowers him, shoving him down to the mat with authority! Revis then moves in
on Wolfe, looking to press the advantage, but Wolfe pops back to his feet and
slugs it out with the former Tag Team Champion. Wolfe then whips Revis against
the ropes, but Revis counters with a hard DDT! He then
calls out for a powerslam, which prompts cheers from the capacity New Delhi
crowd, but before he can apply the move, Alexis Duval rushes out from the back
and hops onto the ring apron, trying to get Revis’ attention.
Buckingham: Well, Rich Revis spoke openly
about not wanting to be a part of a faction this time around. Now he gets to
see firsthand how his former faction operates in 2011.
Revis, while keeping one eye on Wolfe, screams at Alexis to remove herself
from the ring apron. Alexis vocally refuses, demanding that Revis eliminate
himself from the match and award the victory to Wolfe. During this time, Wolfe
gets back to his feet and charges Revis with a running big boot, but Revis sees
it coming and moves out of the way, causing Wolfe to stop short! However, Revis
moves right into Alexis’ path, leading to Alexis nailing Revis through the
ropes with a swift low blow! Then, smiling, Wolfe grabs Revis by the throat,
lifts him over the top rope, and dumps him to the outside for the victory!
Troy: Oh come on!
Buckingham: That’s what you get, Revis! You want to stand on your own? Try
standing up to SIN! Not so easy is it?!
The fans boo loudly as “Charlie Big Potato” by Skunk Anansie hits the
speakers and John Wolfe is announced the winner. Alexis enters the ring and
hugs Wolfe before raising his hand to throngs of jeers.
Buckingham: You can question the method
in which he got it done, but by hook or by crook, John Wolfe has become the
number one contender to the International Championship, and SIN has picked up a
huge victory in this battle royal!
Troy: I suppose this is what we’re in for with this group. But like it or not,
John Wolfe will be the next challenger to Chase Stone’s title, and with SIN’s
backing and what would appear to be Alexis Duval in his corner, you have to
like his chances!
Buckingham: And you know what, Troy? Justin Schenck is my buddy and all, but I
feel he was holding this man back. Now, he can’t hold him back anymore. Wolfe
has his opportunity, and whether or not he becomes
International Champion rests on his ability to defeat Chase Stone. Should be
quite the match!
WINNER AT 17:54 – JOHN WOLFE
Order of Elimination: 1. Renegade (by
Krieg); 2. The Omega (by Krieg); 3. Juan
Pablo Alvarez (by Krieg); 4. Markus Krieg (by Jew, Black,
Dawkins, and Dulberg); 5 & 6. Paul Epton and Fenix
Clarke (by each other); 7. Darrin Giles (by Moon); 8.
Asai Moon (by Wolfe and Duval); 9. Briggs
(by Revis); 10 & 11. Maddox Tate and Pitbull (by
Dawkins after distraction from Jaguar); 12. Paul Dawkins
(by Wolfe and Duval); 13 & 14. Dexter P.
Wellington and Matthew Magellan (by Saif); 15. Michael
Grieco (by Dulberg); 16. Evan Black (by GI Jew after
distraction from Solomon); 17. GI Jew (by Dulberg);
18. Jon Dulberg (by Duval); 19 & 20. Chris Duval and Saif al Abbad (by each other); 21. Rich Revis (by Wolfe after distraction from Alexis Duval)
-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --
Back from break, we are taken to a
backstage hallway, where Jaguar is walking back to his dressing room as Scott
Cornelius tracks him down.
Cornelius: Jaguar! Jag!
Jaguar: (Stopping to turn around) What is it Corny?!
Cornelius: Just had to get a quick word from you. We just witnessed you
basically costing both members of Texas Justice a chance at the International
title tonight. I know you've had your problems with them, but that's not
usually a move we see you make. What gives?
Jaguar: What gives? I'll tell you what gives. Ever since the day I got the
phone call that PWA was opening back up for business, my goal has been the same
– retain the World Championship and prove that I am the best in this industry.
Last year, I had that opportunity plucked away by Michael Grieco, and now this
year, Texas Justice has made it their purpose to make my life a living hell for
leaving them in the dust 20 years ago. A bit of news for you fellas, this is a
business! And in business, if you work hard enough, the cream will eventually
rise to the top. I did that, and all they have done is spend their time hatin' on me. Well tonight, I flipped the script a little
bit. Since the main event of Everlasting Epic is again not a possibility for
me, my focus shifts to taking these two out of the game. And come next season,
I’ll be back where I belong, on top of this company. But to do that, these two
must be taken out, and since these guys have waged war against me since day
one, consider those disappearing title shots my first salvo.
Jaguar then walks off, satisfied at accomplishing his
goal for the evening.
***
Elsewhere in the backstage area, we see creative director Justin Schenck
talking on his cell phone in his office.
Schenck (into phone): … Yeah, I’m not too
concerned about it. My confidence in Chase grows by the week, and John Wolfe is
a bum. All he does is whine and complain. We’re gonna have to do something
about the outside interference, but I don’t think this SIN group is invincible
by any means…
Just then, a backstage assistant knocks twice and walks into the office
carrying a piece of paper.
Assistant: Mr. Schenck, have you checked—
Schenck (into phone): Hold on a minute.
He then pulls the phone away from his ear and cuts the assistant off.
Schenck: Are you blind? Can you not see
that I’m on the phone?
Assistant: Yes, but this is really important. We received a message from our
liaison at the NOW Network about tonight’s show and I want to make sure you’ve
seen—
Schenck: The NOW Network can kiss my ass. Do you know they actually have the
nerve to complain about the overhead costs of shooting this show, despite our
high ratings? Sometimes I think they’re just incapable of seeing the bigger
picture.
Assistant: So what do you want me to do with—
Schenck: With the memo? Just drop it on my desk and leave me be.
The assistant does as he’s told and exits. Schenck sighs and resumes his
phone conversation.
Schenck (into phone): Now where were we?
While he listens, Schenck picks up the network memo and, without reading
it, tears it up and throws it in the garbage. However, seconds later, Anthony
Failla walks into the locker room and intimidatingly stands in front of
Schenck’s desk.
Schenck (into phone): Uhh, I’m gonna have
to call you back.
Failla continues to stare right through Schenck as the creative director
gives him his undivided attention.
Schenck: Mr. Failla, what can I do for
you?
Failla: You can give me Greg Tantalus or Markus Krieg in a match tonight. I
don’t care who.
Schenck: I like you. Direct and to the point. I
respect that.
Failla: You gonna kiss my ass or give me my match?
Schenck: I’m not opposed to it, but I’m not sure I understand your motive.
Failla: Did you even see the SOD match?
Schenck: Of course.
Failla: Then you know that I absolutely dominated everyone I came across in
that match, until Tantalus and Krieg decided to make an example out of me and
rob me of the chance to get back to the Everlasting Epic main event. They did
what they had to do, fine. But now they’ve made themselves an enemy.
Schenck takes a minute to consider Failla’s proposal.
Schenck: I’ll tell you what. You have your match. It’ll be you and Tantalus
tonight. I have fond memories of the first episode of season one, when you
wiped the floor with Tantalus in about three minutes. All this SIN crap has
been pissing me off for six weeks as I’m sure it’s pissing you off as well, so
seeing a repeat of that match would be a welcome sight. Good luck.
Failla: I don’t need luck. And when this is over, start making plans to give me
Krieg. I’m taking SIN out, Schenck, one by one. And it starts tonight.
Failla then exits the room leaving Schenck behind as a wide smile forms on
his face.
-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --
We return from break and are taken to
ringside, where we see The Standard Sleaze Don Cerrone standing inside the
ring, microphone in hand. Sade’s “Smooth Operator” is playing over the speakers
but fades as he begins to speak.
Cerrone: For those of you who don’t remember me, I am the Standard
Sleaze Don Cerrone, and daddy, this time I’m here to stay. A few weeks ago at
the Symphony of Destruction, you all had the pleasure to meet my new business
associate and my personal entrant into the Symphony of Destruction match, and
of course I’m talking about the one, the only, The Miracle Mike Troha. And if memory serves me correctly,
and oh lord does it ever, because of my mystery entrant, my good pal Scythe lost
his chance to challenge for the PWA World Heavyweight Championship at
Everlasting Epic VII. Tough break, Sham-urai. But enough about the past. Tonight, we talk about the
future. Tonight, I unveil to you the evolution of a Miracle. Ladies and gentlemen, the new and improved MIRACLE MIKE TROHA!
With the announcement, the room goes completely
dark except for a single spotlight shining on the main stage. “The Miracle” by
Queen begins blaring over the speakers, and moments later a thin layer of fog
begins to fill the stage. From behind the curtain emerges the former PWA World
Heavyweight Champion, although his look is now completely different. The once
black-and-green-clad wrestler is now wearing a white and silver pinstripe suit.
The suit jacket is open to reveal a white tee shirt with a silver cross on it. A
large silver cross also hangs from the neck of The Miracle, who is also wearing
a white Kangol hat and white framed aviator glasses. He walks down to the ring
slowly, arms outstretched as he does so, before entering and taking the
microphone from Cerrone.
Troha: Ladies
and gentlemen, what you witnessed six weeks ago at the Symphony of Destruction
was not some happenstance occurrence or an act of fate. When Don Cerrone chose
me to be his personal representative in the SOD match, what followed thereafter
can only be described with one phrase: an act of God.
When the PWA came to a close five years ago, destroyed by the very man who
created it, my cousin Bryan Conroy, I was left to wander the Earth without a
purpose. I wondered what my lot in life would be. I did a lot of soul
searching, introspection that has kept me away from the PWA’s Rebirth until
this time. But just when I reached a personal low in my life and felt all was
lost for my wrestling career, Don Cerrone called me on the phone and presented me
with an opportunity. A chance at redemption. Finally, the clouds had parted and God’s
heavenly light shined down upon me. He was lighting the path to my salvation.
So I accepted Mr. Cerrone’s offer to re-emerge in the PWA at the Symphony of
Destruction to ensure that Scythe did not advance to Everlasting Epic, an
assignment I completed mere seconds into my stay in the match. But my night
didn’t end there. After disposing of Scythe, I held my own in the ring with
many of the company’s greats, which I took as a sign that, despite my long
layoff, I am still one of the best in the world. So I’ve spent the last six
weeks searching my soul yet again, but this time, I found a different answer.
This time, I found my purpose again. This time, I knew I needed to share this
Miracle with the world. I believe I have a greater purpose here in the PWA. Six
weeks ago you were witness to a miracle. But it was only the beginning. Prepare
yourselves because the time has come for a resurrection that will be simply…
miraculous!
Troha proceeds to outstretch his arms and look up
to the heavens as boos rain down upon him until “With You” by Linkin Park
Blasts onto the speakers! The Indian crowd cheers for the Modern-Day Samurai
Scythe, who quickly walks down the aisle and slides into the ring, immediately
grabbing the microphone out of Troha’s hand.
Scythe: You and
I have some unfinished business, Troha, so I’m not even going to pretend to be
impressed with your “holier than thou” antics. You may have pinned me at the
SOD, and I am not about to make any excuses. But I think it’s only fair that
you and I compete one-on-one, now that I know what I’m up against. You haven’t
had a one-on-one match in five years, so I think tonight’s as good a time as
any. What do you say, Troha?!
The fans cheer as The Miracle carefully considers his reply.
Troha: You know
what, Scythe? I’m not granting you the opportunity to bask in my heavenly
presence tonight, let alone a match. I have nothing to prove to you, Scythe. I
came out six weeks ago after being on the shelf for five years and defeated
you. Case closed, enough said.
Cerrone: Tough
break again, daddy-o.
With that Troha drops his microphone and he and
Cerrone exit the ring to intense boos, leaving Scythe standing there scoffing
as we head to commercial.
-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --
We return from break in the backstage
area, where reporter Traci Reed is seen interviewing PWA cruiserweight division
newcomer Fenix Clarke and his manager Emily Walker.
Traci: Ladies
and gentlemen, I’m standing here the newest member of the cruiserweight
division Fenix Clarke and of course Emily Walker. Now seven weeks ago, just
after costing Paul Epton the Progressive Championship, my colleague Scott
Cornelius caught up with you two where Emily, you indicated that you and Epton
have a very specific, very messy history, in your own words. Tonight, we saw
Epton and you, Fenix, eliminate each other from the International Championship
number one contender’s battle royal and then brawl all the way to the backstage
area, where you needed to be separated by throngs of officials. Can either of
you elaborate on this situation or at least tell us why you’re here and where
you came from?
Emily: Traci,
love, I’m going to ignore your question about my history with Mr. Epton and
focus on what’s important, which is Fenix Clarke. This man is one of the top
cruiserweight competitors in the entire world, a man who spent every penny he
owned to leave his native Australia to travel to London and attend Europe’s
premiere wrestling academy, owned and operated by my father, the great Desmond
Walker. After seeing Fenix’s heart and determination, I took him on as my pet
project and, eventually, as my lover, and over the past several years, we’ve
traveled all over Europe, to Japan, to Mexico, and now, Fenix Clarke is here in
the PWA, and he is ready to rise straight to the top of the cruiserweight
division and become Progressive Champion.
Traci: I’m sorry, but the people need to know. How does this tie into Paul
Epton?
Emily: Maybe you should ask Mr. Epton.
Traci: As far as I know, he has already left the building. So, I ask you again.
Why did Paul Epton have to lose the Progressive Championship? What is this
messy history you speak of?
Emily: Aren’t you supposed to be a reporter? I’ve already given you more
information than I should have. If you want answers to those questions, go do
some bloody reporting.
With that, Clarke and Emily walk off.
***
Back at ringside, “Hey You” by Simon Says hits the speakers and the fans boo
loudly as Greg Tantalus makes his way to the ring alone.
Troy: You know, Randall, I have to say,
I’m surprised Tantalus is out here on his own.
Buckingham: You think he’s afraid of Anthony Failla? The man is a three-time
PWA Champion. I can’t fathom he’s afraid of anyone in that ring.
Troy: Well, the last time they squared off on this program, Failla vanquished
Tantalus.
Buckingham: And as we discussed at the SOD a few weeks
back, that was on episode one of season one. Things have changed quite
considerably since then.
Tantalus enters the ring and awaits the arrival of the opposition as the
fans begin booing. Then, as “Better Think Again” by Submersed hits the
speakers, a large number of those boos turn to cheers
when Anthony Failla emerges from behind the curtain.
Troy: Listen to this! The positive
reactions for Anthony Failla keep increasing!
Buckingham: Well, I think choosing to battle SIN head-on is only going to add
supporters to his cause. However, it could also very well lead to some broken
bones, so he needs to keep that in mind.
Despite the lively response, Failla remains stoic as he walks down the
aisle towards the ring. However, when he gets about halfway, he is clubbed down
from behind by Markus Krieg! The fans boo loudly as Krieg stomps away on him
and referee Matt Hansen, reluctant to stop the match before it starts, loudly
admonishes Krieg and demands he back away from Failla. In response, Krieg rolls
Failla into the ring and, when Failla gets to his feet, the referee calls for
the bell to kick off this match.
Troy: Oh come on, ref! How are you gonna
start this match?!
Buckingham: Failla’s a big boy, he can handle a few
shots from Krieg.
ANTHONY FAILLA VS.
GREG TANTALUS
Referee: Matt Hansen
As soon as the bell rings, Tantalus
pounces right on Failla, knocking him to the mat and stomping away on him
viciously. Not allowing Failla a chance to get his bearings, Tantalus keeps the
pressure mounted, doing his best to keep Failla grounded. However, when
Tantalus climbs to the top rope and leaps off, looking for a double sledge,
Failla surprises him by tackling him out of mid-air and crushing him down to
the mat!
The fans cheer this offense tremendously but it is short-lived, as Markus Krieg
immediately responds to the threat by entering the ring and resuming his
assault on Failla. When Tantalus gets to his feet and joins in, referee Hansen
has no choice but to call for the bell and end this match in disqualification.
WINNER VIA DISQUALIFICATION AT 1:29 – ANTHONY FAILLA
The sounding of the bell does nothing to quell the assault, as Tantalus shoves
the referee out of the ring and continues to do a number on Failla along with
Krieg. However, before long, “Amazing” by Kanye West hits and the fans cheer as
the International Champion Chase Stone rushes down the aisle and immediately takes the fight to both Tantalus and Krieg, giving the fans
hope!
Troy: Look at Chase Stone go!
Tantalus and Krieg are momentarily stunned, but before Stone can take
serious advantage of this, John Wolfe and Chris Duval rush out from the back
and floor Stone from behind. Tantalus and Krieg now resume stomping on Failla
while Wolfe and Duval take care of Stone, but moments later “Parabola” by TOOL
hits and the fans give a huge ovation to Hollywood Mike Griffin!
Troy: It’s Mike Griffin! We saw Hollywood
Mike Griffin return at the Symphony of Destruction, and now he’s here tonight!
Buckingham: And he isn’t coming alone!
Indeed, Griffin is accompanied by a steel chair, which he wildly flails in
the ring upon entering it, catching Greg Tantalus in the spine, which sends him
tumbling to the outside! Then, Failla gets to his feet and bulls Krieg over the
top and out! This distraction also allows Chase Stone to take his next
challenger John Wolfe and dump him over the top with an overhead belly-to-belly
suplex!
Now all alone in the ring, Chris Duval is surrounded. Griffin keeps the
remaining SIN members at bay with his chair while Stone steers Duval right into
Failla’s path. Duval tries to bargain but Failla grabs him and destroys him
with the Weapon of Mass Destruction! The
fans cheer loudly as SIN seethes on the outside. Krieg and Wolfe are itching to
get back into the ring and combat the opposition but Tantalus holds them back,
instead opting to smirk at the group and take his men to the back. Stone,
Griffin, and Failla all dare SIN to re-enter the ring as “Better Think Again”
replays.
Troy: It looks like there may be some
competition for SIN after all!
Buckingham: Well, if you’re going to send Hall of Famers to the ring with
chairs, then sure! But the bottom line is Anthony Failla was absolute TOAST out
there if Chase Stone and Mike Griffin hadn’t come to his aid.
Troy: I think the bigger issue for SIN right now is they appear to have made
some pretty formidable enemies, which could be an unwanted distraction as
Vulture prepares to challenge for the world championship in nine and a half
weeks at Everlasting Epic. If they’re not careful, this could all fall apart
before they accomplish what they set out to accomplish.
Buckingham: I wouldn’t worry about SIN, Troy. I feel
pretty confident that a group headed up by Vulture and Tantalus with their
heads screwed on straight will always get the last laugh.
Troy: Time will tell. Folks, we’ll be right back!
-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --
Back from break, we see all the members
of SIN hanging out in their dressing room. Greg Tantalus is seen with Markus
Krieg and John Wolfe, lecturing them about what went wrong in their
confrontation with Anthony Failla moments ago. Alexis Duval tends to her
brother Chris, who is still groggy and out of it following a WMD from Failla.
Vulture is also in the room, but simply sits on a bench, staring at a wall,
lost in thought. The room, however, is abuzz with noise. Suddenly however,
Morgan Day appears at the doorway, catching Tantalus’ attention and quieting
the noise level.
Tantalus: Well if it isn’t Morgan Day. I
thought you didn’t want to be associated with us.
Morgan: I don’t. I’m here to see my husband. (to
Vulture) Hey, do you have a sec?
Tantalus: Isn’t it incredible, V? We can recruit some of the best young stars
in the world to join with us, but your wife and my sister? Family?
Forget about it. Not interested.
Morgan: I’m not getting into this with YOU, Tantalus.
Vulture: C’mon Morgan, let’s step outside for a minute. (to
Greg) Hey, I’m gonna be right back.
Tantalus: Alright. Just make sure you’re back here in time for the main event.
It starts in like five minutes.
Vulture nods at Tantalus before leading his wife out of the room. The
camera follows them to the outside.
Vulture: What is it babe?
Morgan: I just need to vent a little.
Vulture: Alright, I’ve got a minute. Vent away.
Morgan: I know it’s been six weeks but I am still so angry that Lauren has the
title. I mean I know we’ve had some time off and I thought I could get over it,
but when I saw her walk out tonight with the Women’s Championship, I just saw
red. And then Schenck expects me to team up with her and work cohesively when
she essentially just laid out on the side for most of
the title match at SOD, letting me take care of Zina? I mean I PINNED ZINA! I
had FINALLY PINNED HER! That title was MINE. And she just swooped in and took
it from me. I’m sorry but I just can’t seem to get over this.
Vulture: I know
babe. It was a tough loss. And I know you worked so hard to pin Zina. Listen,
you did an amazing job in that match but unfortunately Lauren capitalized on it
at the last possible second. You just have to stay focused on the prize and
step up your game that much more if you want to get the title again.
Morgan: I know… I know. But lately… I dunno… I just
feel like my whole life I’ve worked and fought and struggled to get to the top,
and then this Russian monster comes along and she’s damn near impossible to
defeat. And just when there is a glimmer of hope that I’m finally going to beat
her and win back my title, Lauren lays the Tiger Driver on me and that’s
it…she’s the new four time PWA Women’s Champion, she’s taken the belt from
Zina, and I’m nothing more than a pawn in her game. It’s so bloody frustrating.
When will enough just be ENOUGH?
Vulture embraces Morgan and gently
strokes her hair.
Vulture (half
joking): You know if you really want that title back, I can help you get it…we
all can help you get it.
Morgan (backing away from the embrace): How many times do I have to tell you,
Michael? I don’t want to be a part of all that. Now you know I love you but I
don’t have to agree with every decision you make, and this certainly is one we
differ on. I’m not going to hide behind a group. I don’t want to be seen as
weak. If I’m going to win the Women’s title again, it’s going to be on my own
terms and through my own efforts… not anyone else’s.
Vulture: Fair enough. We can agree to disagree. But you know we are always here
for you if you need us.
Morgan: Alright well I’ll see you later love. Dinner after
the show?
Vulture: You
know it.
Vulture kisses Morgan on the cheek as she departs,
a pensive look returning to his face as the camera fades out.
***
Backstage we see Traci Reed
interviewing Saif al Abbad.
Traci: Saif, next week, PWA: The Rebirth
will be hosted by your city of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Is there anything
special planned for a show in your hometown?
Saif: Well
Traci, next week’s show in Dubai will be a spectacle the likes of which have
never been seen! I have been allowed creative input on the event by Mr. Schenck
and I promise I won’t disappoint the PWA fans!
Traci: Oooh, sounds interesting. But is there anything in
PARTICULAR that we can look forward to?
Saif: Haha! Traci, I don’t want to get the cat out of the bag, so unfortunately
I will not be divulging the specifics of next week’s show. But I have used a
good degree of my funds to ensure that everyone in attendance will have a most
enjoyable and memorable time!
Traci: Well, it seems that Saif al Abbad is keeping very tightlipped about next
week’s episode of PWA: The Rebirth, except that it will be amazing, whatever it
happens to be! But before we get to next week, we have tonight’s main event!
When we return, it’s Showtime Damon Savage battling Dan Crowley for the World
Heavyweight Championship! Stay tuned!
-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --
Back from break, the camera is focused
on ring announcer Lee Palmer, who is in the ring with a microphone.
Palmer: Ladies and gentlemen, this next
contest, scheduled for one fall, is our main event of the evening, and it is
for the PWA World Heavyweight Championship!
With that, the fans cheer wildly, cheers that only grow in volume as “Judas
Rising” by Judas Priest overtakes the speakers and Dan Crowley makes his
entrance. Hardly a smile crosses Crowley’s face as he enters the ring,
determined to make the gap between his first and second reigns as world
champion a brief one. With the cheers still persisting, Crowley stretches
himself on the ropes and awaits the arrival of the champion.
Moments later, “No Country for Young Men” by Ice Cube hits and the roof nearly
blows off the Indira Gandhi Arena, with the New Delhi crowd giving Showtime
Damon Savage a thunderous ovation as he enters the arena for his first
televised title defense!
Troy: And here comes the heavyweight
champion of the world! I can get used to this!
Buckingham: It’s definitely a long time coming as far as Showtime becoming
world champion, but I wouldn’t get used to it just yet. These two are so evenly
matched that absolutely anything can happen tonight.
Savage revels in the cheers of the crowd as he enters the ring, staring
face-to-face with Crowley as he hands referee Tom Stevens the championship
belt, which he holds high. Then, Lee Palmer begins the introductions as the
combatants move to the center of the ring.
Palmer: Ladies and gentlemen, this match,
scheduled for one fall, is for the PWA World Heavyweight Championship!
Introducing first, the challenger, from Long Island, New York, weighing in at
235 pounds… DAAAAAANNNNN CRRRRRROWWWWWWLEEEEYYYYYY!
And his opponent, from Pomona, California, weighing in at 232 pounds, he is the
PWA World Heavyweight Champion… SHOWWWWTIIIIME DAAAAAMONNNNN SAAAAAAVAGE!
With that, referee Tom Stevens holds the title belt high as the bell sounds to
kick off this championship contest.
PWA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP:
SHOWTIME DAMON SAVAGE (champion) VS. DAN CROWLEY (challenger)
Referee: Tom Stevens
Savage and Crowley circle each other to
start things off, trying to pick their spots. Finally, Crowley cinches in a
headlock, but before anyone knows what’s happening, John Wolfe and Chris Duval
hit the ring and immediately club both Showtime and Crowley down to the mat!
The fans begin booing, but the boos raise in volume as
Markus Krieg and Greg Tantalus also arrive in the ring, and a vicious
four-on-two assault ensues.
Troy: What the hell is going on here?!
This isn’t right!
Buckingham: It looks like SIN is out here to make a statement!
The beating continues as the boos rain down and, before long, referee
Stevens realizes he has no choice but to call for the bell and end this title
match, which causes the boos to grow in volume.
WINNER AT 1:13 – NO CONTEST; STILL PWA CHAMPION – SHOWTIME
DAMON SAVAGE
The sounding of the bell does nothing
to stop the SIN assault however. Wolfe and Krieg each grab Crowley by the
throat and chokeslam him over the top rope and to the outside! Meanwhile, Duval
torpedoes Savage shoulder-first into the ringpost and, when he staggers back,
Tantalus grabs him and destroys him with the G-Spot vertebreaker! From there,
Krieg pries him off the mat and crushes the champion with the BlitzKrieg!
Amid the assault, the cameras missed Alexis Duval walking out to the ring to
join her partners. Then, “Electric Head Pt. 1: The Agony” by White Zombie hits
and SIN celebrates their assault in the ring while Vulture emerges from the
backstage area to even more boos. A smirk on his face, Vulture walks down the
aisle and enters the ring, where Alexis hands him a microphone.
Vulture: First of all, allow me to
apologize for ruining the main event you were advertised. Believe me, it was
not my intention to make you feel like you didn’t get your money’s worth here
tonight. However, as you will soon learn, we didn’t ruin tonight’s main event;
we simply cleared the ring of a main event that should have been cancelled an
hour ago. Not to worry, though. We are out here now and—
Suddenly, “Reason to Hate Me” by Krayzie Bone hits the speakers and the
fans cheer loudly as creative director Justin Schenck emerges from behind the
curtain, appearing on the stage with a microphone, a look of rage on his face.
Schenck: Just what in the hell do you all
think you’re doing?!
Vulture: Ah, Mr. Schenck. Perfect timing. I trust you
read the memo, so let’s get things started.
Schenck: What memo? What are you talking about? How can you possibly explain
coming out here and ruining our main event?
Vulture: Well, if you’d read the memo from our liaison at the NOW Network,
you’d know what this is all about. But since it appears you’ve been shirking
your responsibilities as creative director, allow me to fill you and all these
people in. Now, as you know, I won the Symphony of Destruction match six weeks
ago to earn a shot at the PWA Championship at Everlasting Epic.
Schenck: What’s your point?
Vulture: Calm down, I’m getting to it. Now, the accepted prize for winning the
SOD is the EE title shot. But if you read the fine print in the contract, there
is another option. Every SOD winner has the right to waive their Everlasting
Epic title shot in exchange for a championship match at ANY televised event,
regardless of what matches are already scheduled, so long as at least one hour’s
notice is provided to the individual’s direct superior. Now, since Greg
Tantalus’ contract indicates that he and everyone officially aligned with him
reports directly to the network and not to you, I provided that notice to our
network liaison earlier this evening. Notification was passed down to you, but
I guess you didn’t get the memo.
Schenck: Are you kidding me?! This is bullshit! I don’t believe you! You’re
just trying to goad me into signing you to a title match, and it’s not gonna happen!
Vulture: Go get on the phone and call the liaison if you don’t believe me. But
there’s no point. I am taking the PWA title shot I earned at the SOD right now,
and there’s not a damn thing you can do about it.
Schenck: You stay right there, I’m gonna go make a call. Cameraman, go to
break!
-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --
Back from commercial, we are taken to
our commentators, Victor Troy and Randall Buckingham.
Troy: Folks, an absolutely explosive turn
of events just before we went to break. Showtime Damon Savage and Dan Crowley
were no more than a minute into their championship match before SIN struck,
incapacitating both men. Vulture, who was not involved in the assault, then
made his way to the ring and declared that, as a SOD winner, he was entitled to
waive his Everlasting Epic title shot and take it on any televised show so long
as one hour’s notice was given. He claimed to have given notice to the NOW
Network earlier on that he would be taking his shot tonight and facing Showtime
Damon Savage for the gold.
Buckingham: Of course, Justin Schenck came out to deny
this, but during the break, it became clear that Mr. Schenck simply didn’t look
at the network memo. While we were at commercial, Schenck came back out here
and confirmed that everything Vulture said was true and, despite protests from
a battered Showtime, who is still recovering from the SIN assault, this
championship match will happen momentarily.
Troy: Justin Schenck was powerless to stop this match from happening, but he
did have the power to ban all of SIN from ringside. So, while Showtime may be
wounded and this match may be taking place with zero notice to him, at least
SIN will not be at ringside.
Buckingham: And with that, let’s send it to Lee Palmer.
Palmer: Ladies and gentlemen, this match,
scheduled for one fall, is for the PWA World Heavyweight Championship!
Introducing first, the challenger, from Manhattan, New York, weighing in at 242
pounds… VULLLLLLL-TUUUUURRRRRE!
And his opponent, from Pomona, California, weighing in at 232 pounds, he is the
PWA World Heavyweight Champion… SHOWWWWTIIIIME DAAAAAMONNNNN SAAAAAAVAGE!
With that, referee Tom Stevens again holds up the PWA championship belt and
Showtime, having mostly cleared the cobwebs from the SIN attack, moves to the
center of the ring while Vulture can barely contain himself in his corner,
anxiously anticipating the sounding of the bell.
PWA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP:
SHOWTIME DAMON SAVAGE (champion) VS. VULTURE (challenger)
Referee: Tom Stevens
As soon as the bell rings, Vulture charges Showtime, looking to grab the
immediate advantage, but Savage surprises him with a drop toehold, taking
Vulture down before cinching in a side headlock to the delight of the crowd.
Savage takes Vulture down with the headlock, but the challenger soon battles
his way back to his feet and creates separation with a few well-placed elbows
to the midsection. Vulture then whips Showtime against the ropes, immediately
looking to vanquish him with the Chill Factor spinebuster, but Savage counters
with a DDT on the return! Then, with Vulture down,
Showtime moves in position for It’s Showtime!
Troy: Look at this! Showtime is wasting
absolutely no time! He’s going for the kill right here!
Buckingham: It’s a smart strategy, Troy! Showtime HAS to be going on adrenaline
alone right now! The longer this match goes, the more it favors Vulture
dramatically!
Savage lifts Vulture for the move, but the challenger is able to avoid it
by shifting his weight forward and breaking the champion’s clutch with a
forward roll. Vulture then charges him, looking for a running knee as Showtime
rises, but Savage counters with another drop toehold, sending Vulture’s face
smacking against the bottom turnbuckle!
Vulture shakes off the cobwebs and gets to his feet just as Showtime climbs to
the top rope, looking for a standing moonsault. However, Vulture sees it coming
and drives all his weight into the ropes, causing Savage to lose his balance
and straddle the top turnbuckle, facing out at the crowd.
Seeing the opportunity, Vulture climbs up after him and immediately delivers
the Spider Suplex, sending Showtime crashing down to the mat! Then, Vulture
pulls himself back to the top turnbuckle with his legs, shifts position, and
leaps forth with the Fallen Angel frog splash! Flashbulbs pop throughout the
arena, but Showtime is able to get his knees up at the last second, which crash
thunderously into Vulture’s chest!
Troy: He got his knees up! He got his
knees up!
Buckingham: Vulture may be in trouble now!
Vulture winces in pain as he slowly attempts to get back to his feet.
Seeing his vulnerability, Showtime backs up a few steps and gets to his feet,
measuring his challenger. Then, with a running start, Showtime charges Vulture
as he rises, looking for a devastating running knockout left hook. However,
Vulture is able to duck the punch and convert all of Savage’s momentum into a
furious Chill Factor spinebuster, which connects with thunderous authority!
Wasting not an instant, Vulture then pries Savage off the mat, hooks his head
in reverse DDT formation, and absolutely destroys him with the Crimson Sunset
right in the center of the ring! Vulture covers… one, two, three!
Buckingham: New champion! We’ve got a new
champion!
Troy: I don’t believe this! In his first televised defense of the championship
he finally claimed 45 days ago, Showtime Damon Savage has been defeated by
Vulture and we have a new PWA World Heavyweight Champion! Randall, Vulture has
accomplished his goal of once again becoming world champion, but can he really
take pride in how he got it done?!
Buckingham: He beat the champion 1-2-3 in the middle of the ring! What more do
you want?!
Troy: After he weaseled his way into a title match with absolutely no
notification to the champion, and after the champion was brutally attacked
before the match!
Buckingham: I can’t speak for the attack, but my buddy Justin Schenck dropped
the ball with the notification. We should have known about this an hour ago.
Sorry Justin, I’ve gotta call ‘em like I see ‘em.
The fans boo as “Falling From the Sky” by VAST
hits the speakers and Vulture is announced the winner. Regardless of the
controversial circumstances surrounding his victory, Vulture is overwhelmed by
emotion as referee Tom Stevens hands him the world championship belt and raises
his hand. He falls to one knee and stares deeply at the title before clutching
it close to his chest.
WINNER VIA PINFALL AT 4:54 AND NEW PWA CHAMPION – VULTURE
After allowing sufficient time for his personal
celebration, the members of SIN make their way to the ring to join in the
celebration. Tantalus is the first to enter the ring, hugging Vulture and
raising his hand. Then, Vulture’s children the Duval Twins enter and give their
father a congratulatory hug while he shakes hands with John Wolfe and Markus
Krieg.
With that, “Falling From the Sky” ceases before fading into “Electric Head
Pt.1: The Agony,” at which point Chris Duval and Wolfe lift Vulture onto their
shoulders, prompting even more boos. A sea of red lights fills the arena as
Vulture holds the championship belt high, reveling in a victory even he began
to doubt he would ever achieve.
Troy: Well, by hook or by crook, Vulture
has captured the PWA Championship, meaning the world title is now in the hands
of SIN. And folks, it looks like this group is now stronger and more dangerous
than it’s ever been in the past. I just feel terrible for Showtime.
Buckingham: Forget Showtime, Troy. Vulture is back on top of the mountain! He
is now a three-time PWA World Heavyweight Champion and it’s a cause for
celebration!
Troy: Folks, we’re out of time. We’ll see you next week in Dubai. Goodnight
everybody!
Buckingham: Long live SIN!
-- END SHOW --
Pre-Show Dark Matches:
1.
Rich Revis def. Briggs via pinfall at 3:47 with a running powerslam. (Referee:
Matt Hansen)
2. Synergy [The Omega & Darrin Giles] def. Asai Moon & Saif al Abbad at
4:52. Omega pinned Moon after a rollup with a handful of tights. (Referee: Dan
Martin)
3. PWA Progressive Champion Matthew
Magellan def. Paul Epton to retain the title at 5:12 after The Conquest flying
elbow smash. (Referee: Jose Soares)