PWA: The Rebirth

pwarebirth

EPISODE # 2.12
DSC INDOOR ARENA
DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2011


In lieu of an opening video package, “Live Again” by Ours hits and the opening credits for PWA: The Rebirth roll. From there, we are taken inside the DSC Indoor Arena in Dubai, United Arab Emirates where we are greeted with an untraditional set.

The main stage is adorned with a giant screen displaying Dubai’s skyline with its world-renowned and highly unique architecture. The stage is set to look like the Grand Mosque of Dubai, with heavily carved and gold-laden minarets flanking the stage. Swaths of brightly colored and patterned silks are strung from minaret to minaret, creating a colorful canopy to usher in the PWA stars. The backstage curtains are also made of fine silks in rich purple, blue, and gold hues. Amidst the silk and minarets are hundreds of hanging lanterns, all different in shape and appearance, but all offering a warm glow to the intimate arena. The ramp from the stage to the ring is carpeted with ornate Persian tapestries. Giant urns filled with fragrant oil are placed at intervals along the walkway and are burning brightly. An orchestra is seated off to the side of the stage and they are playing traditional Arabic music.

As the cheers of the crowd begin to die down, we hear the orchestra strike up the tune of Saif al Abbad’s entrance music “Aksem.” Moments later, Dubai native Ahlam herself steps out from behind the curtain, singing the familiar tune as she is escorted by none other than Saif al Abbad. The Dubai crowd cheers loudly for their hometown hero as he stands for a few moments, taking in the experience before he makes his way to the squared circle. He is wearing a white Kandura, the traditional long white cloak often seen sported by men in Dubai. His is adorned with gold trim along the cuffs and collar. Saif also sports his usual headdress, the white and gold Guthra and Egal. He is handed a microphone as he enters the ring.

Saif: Marhaban, Dubai! I am so very pleased to be back in my home country tonight, surrounded by the familiar faces of my people. This is the first time we are using the DSC Indoor Arena and I was very humbled when Mr. Schenck asked me if I would like to orchestrate the festivities for this evening. Tonight will be a celebration on many levels: we will not only be celebrating the exciting sport of professional wrestling, we will not only be celebrating the rich culture of Dubai, but we will also be celebrating all Arabic cultures around the world! Now, although I am a wealthy man, I do not live in a bubble. I have always made it my priority to know about what goes on in the world, with people of all colors and creeds. And I know that Arabs and Islam have lately been viewed by many people in the world as a threat. I want tonight’s celebration to show people everywhere that we are a peaceful, gentle, and humble people who will not let a few rotten apple spoil the fun for the rest of us!

The Dubai crowd cheers loudly at this statement and they begin to chant in unison “SA-IF! SA-IF!”

Saif: Thank you, everyone! As I have said many times before, although I am a man with a large fortune, I do not feel that fortune belongs only to me. It belongs to all of you. So, tonight I have spared no expense in making sure this is a most delightful event for everyone here, rich and poor alike. I have flown in from Afghanistan an entire town of young children to enjoy the matches tonight, and they all have front row seats! Furthermore, I have hired servants to come around and serve traditional Arab food, free of charge. There will be shawarma, kebobs, falafel, hummus, tabouleh, baklava, mehalabiya and although this isn’t a wedding, this celebration is so special to me that I have commissioned 20 stuffed camels to be made! Later on this evening, as an intermission, I have another special treat for the audience! But I have spoken enough.  I want to thank the PWA for allowing me to compete in their illustrious company and I want to thank all of you, my loyal fans, for believing in me! Araka fi ma ba’ad!

***

Saif al Abbad exits the ring, and is serenaded up the ramp and backstage by the voice of Ahlam. The noise from the Dubai crowd is deafening as chants and cheers continue and we are taken to an ornately carved, gold filigree announce table, where we see Victor Troy and Randall Buckingham seated on pure gold chairs with silk cushions.

Troy: Good evening, folks and welcome to PWA: The Rebirth! We are broadcasting live tonight from Dubai, United Arab Emirates and we have just seen a lavish entrance from the one and only Saif al Abbad! I have to say, Saif never ceases to impress me with his generosity and goodwill!

Buckingham: What are you talking about?! He didn’t even hand out gold coins like he usually does! If you ask me, this whole entrance was just a loud cry for attention.

Troy: You can’t possibly be serious! He flew in a whole town of children from Afghanistan, has catered the entire event free of charge for 10,000 fans, decorated this entire place to give homage to his Arab ethnicity, STILL has a surprise for us during the intermission, and THAT’S not good enough for you?!

Buckingham: … Maybe I can break off one of the arms of this chair.

Troy: (shaking his head in disgust) While my partner makes a fool out of himself, let’s discuss what’s in store for all of you tonight. Last week, we closed this show in just about the most explosive way possible. Let’s take a look.

***

A video package then airs, recapping the events that closed last week’s broadcast of The Rebirth, which saw SIN ruin the championship match between PWA Champion Showtime Damon Savage and Dan Crowley, before SIN co-leader Vulture entered the ring and declared that he was invoking a little-known clause in the Symphony of Destruction winner’s contract that allowed him to challenge for the championship on any televised event of his choosing. Using a loophole, SIN went around creative director Justin Schenck to secure the shot without any notification provided to the champion. After this, Vulture defeated a wounded Showtime to capture his third PWA World Heavyweight Championship and bring the world title to the Strength In Numbers camp.

***

The camera then returns to Victor Troy and Randall Buckingham at ringside.

Troy: Certainly not what we were expecting when we showed up to work last week. So now, Vulture is the PWA Champion and Justin Schenck has been LIVID all week.

Buckingham: And it didn’t get any better this past weekend on the road. After last week’s show, Schenck almost immediately signed Vulture to defend the championship in a triple threat match tonight against both Showtime and Dan Crowley. However, before we even got there, Schenck booked Vulture in championship matches the entire weekend at live events leading up to tonight.

Troy: And after escaping India on Saturday and Egypt on Sunday with the championship intact, Schenck booked a preview of the triple threat championship match a night early in Istanbul last night, but I’m sure Justin Schenck is now wishing he didn’t.

Buckingham: The match ended with the entirety of SIN hitting the ring and absolutely decimating both Showtime and Crowley, an assault so brutal that I have it on good authority neither man will be able to compete tonight.

Troy: Last we heard, neither Showtime nor Crowley had been spotted in Dubai tonight, but Justin Schenck has yet to officially cancel tonight’s bout. As far as the official program reads, Vulture will be defending the title against Showtime Damon Savage and Dan Crowley in a triple threat match but, again, based on what we know, that seems incredibly unlikely.

Buckingham: What we can say for certain, though, is that the PWA Women’s Championship will be on the line in a triple threat match, when Lauren Tantalus defends against former champions Zina and Morgan Day.

Troy: And we can also tell you that Jaguar will team with Paul Dawkins and Renegade to face Michael Grieco and the Tag Team Champions Texas Justice in a six-man tag team match.

Buckingham: The Miracle Mike Troha will make his PWA: The Rebirth in-ring debut against Jon Dulberg, something I’m really looking forward to.

Troy: And we’re also going to see some cruiserweight division tag team action as Paul Epton teams with Asai Moon to take on Juan Pablo Alvarez and the mysterious Fenix Clarke.

***

With that, “Body Ya” by Fabolous hits the speakers and the fans begin cheering as Rich Revis makes his energetic entrance!

Troy: But before we get to any of that, we’re gonna kick this thing off with a little one-on-one action! And here comes recent PWA returnee Rich Revis to get us started!

Buckingham: Revis had himself an impressive little run in the battle royal last week and came close to earning a shot at the International Championship, but John Wolfe outsmarted him and Revis is going to have to work his way up the ladder now.

Troy: I wouldn’t exactly say that Wolfe outsmarted him, Randall. Cheated him would be more accurate.

Buckingham: Who’s the number one contender, Troy?

Troy: John Wolfe, but—

Buckingham: He outsmarted him.

Revis enters the ring and awaits the arrival of his opposition, something that takes place moments later when “More Human Than Human” by White Zombie hits and the Synergy duo of The Omega and Darrin Giles makes its way to the ring to a chorus of boos.

Troy: It is in fact The Omega that is competing here tonight. I suppose Giles is simply out here for moral support, right Randall? He couldn’t possibly be out here to stack the odds in his partner’s favor, could he?

Buckingham: This is a new low for you, Troy. Accusing people of cheating before the match even starts. Real professional.

The Omega hits the ring and immediately goes at it with Revis, prompting the bell to sound.

RICH REVIS VS. THE OMEGA
Referee: Jose Soares

The Omega develops the early advantage, pounding away on Revis with a series of clubbing blows, keeping him off base. He then whips Revis off the ropes but telegraphs his back body drop attempt, putting his head down, which allows Revis to counter with a jumping DDT! Omega then stumbles to his feet, just in time for Revis to charge in on him and flatten him to the mat with a running shoulderblock! Then, when The Omega rises again, Revis grabs him and destroys him with a running powerslam! Revis goes for the cover, but Giles immediately jumps onto the apron to distract the referee!

Troy: Oh come on! Get him off the damn apron!

Buckingham: Give him a chance, Troy! He might have something really important to say!

Troy: Will you stop?! I’m already sick of you tonight!

Revis doesn’t take too kindly to Giles’ distraction, breaking his cover of Omega to charge Giles and shoulderblock him right off the apron! He then turns around to meet a charging Omega, but ducks under his clothesline and immediately counters with a vicious Wasteland! Revis covers… one, two, three!

Troy: And there’s a victory for Rich Revis! What an impressive win!

The fans cheer as “Body Ya” replays over the speakers and Revis celebrates his inaugural Rebirth victory. We then head to commercial.
WINNER VIA PINFALL AT 2:22 – RICH REVIS

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --


Back from commercial, a black stretch limousine pulls into the parking lot. When the door opens, the members of Strength In Numbers emerge from it, first Greg Tantalus, followed by Markus Krieg, then John Wolfe, then Alexis Duval, then Chris Duval, and then the PWA World Heavyweight Champion Vulture, who is dressed in a black suit, red shirt, black tie, and pair of red lens Aviator sunglasses. The group then enters the facility through the back entrance, but as soon as they do, they are approached by backstage reporter Traci Reed, who heads straight for the champion.

Traci: Vulture! Can I have just a minute of your time?

She is immediately cut off, however, by Greg Tantalus.

Tantalus: What the hell is wrong with you?! You don’t just sneak up on us like that! Now, if you have a question, you can address the group.

Traci: Well, I just wanted to get a statement regarding the events of last night’s show in Istanbul, where all of you contributed in the attack on Showtime Damon Savage and Dan Crowley. As of now, there’s still a championship triple threat match between them and Vulture scheduled for later this evening, but neither man is expected in the building tonight. What are your thoughts on what happened last night and whether or not there will be a championship match tonight?

Tantalus: Our thoughts are that Showtime and Crowley got what was coming to them last night, and I don’t expect there to be a championship match tonight.

Vulture: Traci, what we did last night was a response to the tyranny of Justin Schenck. We outsmarted him, and his response was to do everything in his power to make sure the world championship would be back out of SIN by the end of tonight. So last night, we threw a monkey wrench into his plan. He can continue to advertise a championship match tonight if he likes. There won’t be one. You can count on that.

With that, SIN walks off.

***

The camera shifts to another portion of the backstage area, where PWA International Champion Chase Stone is walking through the halls. However, he slows down when he crosses paths with Hollywood Mike Griffin. The two stare at one another for several moments before either begins speaking.

Stone: Griffin.

Griffin: Chase.

Stone: Seems like we’ve been on the same side since you’ve come back.

Griffin: Seems like it. Though, funny, I still recall being smacked in the back with a lead pipe by you at Everlasting Epic last year.

Stone:  I think we’re gonna need to put all of that in the past. I’m sure you aren’t exactly thrilled with your decision to reform TFU with Tantalus right now either.

Griffin: Clearly. But with SIN back now, we’re gonna need all hands on deck. You realize that. I was around when they did this SIN thing the first time and it wasn’t pretty. But I’m not gonna lie, Chase. I’m not exactly ready to just be buddy-buddy with you.

Stone: I don’t think I can disagree there. Tell you what. Why don’t we settle our differences the old fashioned way… in the ring, right here next week.

Griffin: That sounds like a good idea to me.

Griffin extends his hand, and Stone shakes it.

Stone: I’ll even put the International title on the line.

Griffin: That’s really not necessary.

Stone glares at Griffin and squeezes his hand tighter.

Stone: I insist.

Griffin: Suit yourself. It’s about time I complete my triple crown anyway.

The two stare each other down for several moments before exiting in opposite directions.

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

Back from break, “Demons” by Aria blares onto the speakers and Zina begins making her way to the ring, an intense glare on her face as she does so.

Troy: Alright folks, we’re about to see the Women’s Championship defended in a triple threat match, and it should be a doozy!

Buckingham: I have to say, Troy, it just doesn’t seem right for Zina to be walking out here without the Women’s Championship. I have to think that wrong will be righted here tonight.

Moments later, “Hysteria” by Muse hits and Morgan Day begins her march to the ring to a loud ovation from the Dubai crowd. Morgan and Zina never take their eyes off one another as Morgan enters the ring, and the cold staredown continues upon her entry.

Troy: This really has developed into an intense rivalry, Randall. Zina reigned as undefeated Women’s Champion for nearly one year before being pinned by Morgan Day in the triangle elimination match at Symphony of Destruction.

Buckingham: And I’m sure Zina has designs on avenging that defeat here tonight.

As the staredown continues, “Free” by VAST hits the speakers and the PWA Women’s Champion Lauren Tantalus makes her way to the ring to a wave of cheers.

Troy: Well, we mentioned that Morgan Day pinned Zina in the Symphony of Destruction triangle elimination match, but of course seconds after that transpired, Lauren Tantalus caught Morgan by surprise with the Tiger Driver and she, not Morgan, took the Women’s Championship from Zina.

Buckingham: Basically, the two women in the ring challenging for the title don’t think the champion deserves to have it.

Troy: But it should be noted that the rules of this match are slightly different than their Symphony of Destruction encounter.  At the SOD, the match was contested under elimination rules. Tonight, the first woman to score a pinfall will win the Women’s Championship.

Buckingham: And if those rules were in effect at the SOD, Morgan Day would be champion right now. But with that said, I think this is Zina’s night tonight.

When Lauren enters the ring and hands the championship belt to referee Dan Martin, ring announcer Lee Palmer begins the introductions.

Introducing first, one of the challengers, from Moscow, Russia, weighing in at 200 pounds… ZIIIIIII-NAAAAAA!

Her opponent and challenger, from New Castle, England, weighing in at 140 pounds… MORRRRGANNNN DAYYYYYY!

And their opponent, from Denver, Colorado, weighing in at 120 pounds, she is the PWA Women’s Champion… LAUUUURENNNN TANNN-TALUSSSS!

PWA WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP – TRIPLE THREAT MATCH:
LAUREN TANTALUS (champion) VS. MORGAN DAY (challenger) VS. ZINA (challenger)
Referee: Dan Martin

As soon as the bell sounds, Morgan and Lauren go right for Zina, immediately engaging in a brutal two-on-0ne assault! Though Morgan and Lauren are able to keep Zina at bay for the short term, the Moscow native fights back, heaving Morgan through the ropes and taking the fight to Lauren. The champion tries to stand toe-to-toe with her much-larger challenger, but Zina quickly develops the advantage, whipping Morgan against the ropes and downing her with a ferocious sidewalk slam!

Buckingham: It’s destiny, Troy! Zina will not be denied!

Zina keeps the pressure mounted on Lauren, but before she can flatten her with a ura-nage, Morgan re-enters the ring and downs her with a chop block! With Zina off her feet, Morgan and Lauren get to work to try to keep her there, stomping away on her until Zina gathers the strength to get herself back to a vertical base. At that point, Morgan and Lauren grab Zina and whip her against the ropes, but Zina flattens both of them with a double clothesline on the rebound!

With Morgan and Lauren down, Zina lifts them both off the mat and heaves them against the ropes, trying to propel both of them out of the ring. However, Morgan and Lauren are able to reverse the momentum and send Zina hurdling to the outside instead!

Troy: What about destiny?! Lauren and Morgan have turned the tables!

Buckingham: Whatever.

With Zina gone from the ring, Morgan and Lauren turn their attention to each other, battling it out furiously. Morgan attempts a roundhouse kick to the face, but Lauren ducks under it and downs Morgan with a back suplex instead. Then, Lauren climbs to the top rope and nails the rising Morgan with a diving reverse elbow, sending her backwards into the ropes.

However, at this moment, Zina re-enters the ring and downs the Women’s Champion with a hard shoulderblock before taunting her opponents with a frightening war dance. She then lets out a guttural yell and turns her attention to Morgan.

Troy: Look out Morgan!

Buckingham: She’d better get out of the way!


With Morgan still backed against the ropes, Zina charges her, looking for the Siberian Express, but at the last moment, Morgan sidesteps her, causing Zina to straddle the top rope and tumble over it to the outside! However, as soon as Morgan turns around inside the ring, Lauren grabs her in position for the Tiger Driver!

Troy: Lauren’s going for the Tiger Driver! Can lightning strike twice?!

Buckingham: Morgan needs to find a way to do what she couldn’t at the SOD, or Lauren is seconds away from retaining her title!

Lauren lifts Morgan for the move, but at the last second, Morgan is able to counter her way out of it with a hurricanrana! Both women pop right back to their feet, but Morgan is prepared with a roundhouse kick that connects square in the side of Lauren’s head, sending her smacking down to the mat like a ton of bricks!

Buckingham: Damn! That HAD to hurt!

Wasting little time, Morgan lifts Lauren’s legs, trying to apply her Sharpshooter submission finisher. However, in an act of total desperation, Lauren reaches up and ties Morgan in a small package! One, two, and Morgan just gets the shoulder up!

Morgan pops right back to her feet, but Lauren is slow to hers. When the champion reaches her feet, it is clear that her eyes are glazed over.

Troy: Look at Lauren’s eyes, Randall. This doesn’t look good.

Buckingham: She might have suffered a concussion.

Troy: Yeah, but that would be particularly troubling news for Lauren, who lost two years of her career to a severe concussion suffered in late 2004.

Morgan hesitates for just a moment when she notices Lauren’s condition, but in that moment, Lauren instinctively grabs her, looking for the Tiger Driver! However, Morgan counters out and, in one fell swoop, blasts Lauren with the Daybreak, driving her skull into the canvas!

Lauren goes out like a light, but before Morgan can even attempt a cover, she turns around, walking right into the Siberian Express from Zina, who has just returned to the ring! Zina immediately covers Morgan, hooking the leg tightly… one, two, three!

Troy: My God! I don’t believe it! It happened to Morgan Day again! Morgan was seconds away from recapturing the Women’s Championship, but she was blasted in the face with the Siberian Express, and now Zina is once again Women’s Champion!

Buckingham: That sure does suck for Morgan, but I have to say, Troy, I am thrilled to have the championship back where it belongs! I can only hope Zina’s second reign is as awesome as her first!

Troy: But on a serious note, as great as this moment is for Zina, and as horrible as it is for Morgan Day, there should be some concern at this moment for Lauren Tantalus, who I fear might have suffered another concussion. Let’s hope it’s nothing serious.

Buckingham: Stop being a downer, Troy! This is Zina’s moment! Live it!

Zina lets out a guttural yell as “Demons” replays and she is handed back the Women’s Championship belt that she lost less than two months ago. Clutching the belt closely, Zina rolls out of the ring and walks to the backstage area, pumped up beyond belief.

Meanwhile, as officials tend to the fallen Lauren, Morgan sits in the corner, her back propped against the turnbuckles, cursing under her breath and shaking her head, in complete disbelief that what happened at the Symphony of Destruction just happened again. The frustration on her face is beyond evident as Morgan realizes her brief window of opportunity has closed; the tyrant is back on top in the women’s division.
WINNER VIA PINFALL AT 7:05 AND NEW WOMEN’S CHAMPION – ZINA

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --


In the backstage area, we see Kemi Okoro chatting with a makeup artist when Keiko Ishida storms onto the scene, grabs Kemi’s arm, and spins her around. The two rivals then stare each other down before Kemi begins speaking.

Kemi: Can I help you?

Keiko: I just thought you should hear it from me that next week, finally, we’re going to do battle in the ring, one-on-one, no complications, no excuses. And Kemi, believe me, I’m coming for blood.

Kemi: You can come for whatever you want, but you’re not leaving with a victory.

The staredown continues for several moments before Keiko begins to back up.

Keiko: I’ll see you next week.

Keiko then turns around and Kemi does the same. Ishida begins walking away, but stops short, cocks her fist, and spins Kemi back around, only to find Kemi with a cocked fist as well. Keiko then simply smirks and exits without saying another word.

***

As we return from the break, “You Don’t Know” by Eminem and 50 Cent hits the speakers and the crowd gives a warm ovation to Paul Dawkins and Renegade as they march through the curtain and towards the ring.

Troy: Alright, ladies and gentleman, we’ve got a big six-man tag coming up, and here come Paul Dawkins and Renegade. This will be a good tune-up for them as they prepare for their title shot against Texas Justice next week.

Buckingham: Tune-up? For Dawkins and Renegade? Are you listening to yourself speak, Troy? This is a tune-up for Texas Justice. Let’s face it, they can’t beat Texas Justice. The last time they had a title shot, Renegade was pinned one, two, three in the middle of the ring. Remember that?

Troy: Yes, I do remember that at the Symphony of Destruction, but that also occurred after Paul Dawkins was “mysteriously” taken out backstage before the match, and Jaguar had to take his place. For a team that Texas Justice is not afraid of, they have certainly had their problems with Dawkins and Renegade recently. Not to mention problems with their partner also.


As the former Tag Team Champions enter the ring, “My Avenue” by Lil Boosie Bad Azz, Lil Phat, and Lil Trill takes over, thumping through the speakers as Jaguar emerges to a thunderous ovation! The multi-time PWA Champion salutes the Dubai crowd, which continues its cheering as he throws his arms up and poses in front of the flaming fireworks that erupt behind him. With fireballs blazing in the background, Jaguar approaches the ring.

Troy: Jag looks extremely focused tonight!


Buckingham: He does, but what does that really mean? Let’s face it: just like Dawkins and Renegade, this guy is fighting a war he cannot win against Texas Justice. Instead of just stepping aside and letting them shine, he continues to just be an irritant. Last week, he cost them both a shot at the International Championship!

Troy: He did, but these guys have had it out for him for close to two decades. They tried to end his career in the first week of this season, and he is out for payback!

Buckingham: He initially came out to end his own career anyway; they just tried to give him a little assist!

Troy: Assist?! Well they have relit the fire within Jaguar to continue his legendary career, and he’s back full-time and full force tonight.


After Jaguar enters the ring and poses on the turnbuckles, he greets his partners and waits for their opposition. “Da Repercussions” by 50 Cent hits and boos pour in for Michael Grieco as Dee Licious leads him out onto the stage. Grieco poses atop the stage, flexing his muscles and mouthing inaudible words in Jaguar’s direction. As “Mouth For War“ by Pantera takes over, the jeers grow in volume as Texas Justice emerges from the entrance, with the Tag Team Championship belts gleaming from the waists of Maddox Tate and Pitbull.

Buckingham: Now here is a real team! Texas Justice has some big time help tonight with Michael Grieco, as if they needed it.

Troy: They’ll need it right now, because here come their opponents!


SIX-MAN TAG TEAM MATCH:
PWA TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS TEXAS JUSTICE & MICHAEL GRIECO VS. JAGUAR, PAUL DAWKINS & RENEGADE
Referee: Matt Hansen

Pitbull and Maddox Tate scramble to remove their belts as Dawkins, Renegade, and Jaguar leave the ring and charge them on the ramp! A brawl breaks out with Dawkins going at it with Tate, and Pitbull being double-teamed by Jaguar and Renegade, until Grieco clubs Jaguar in the back and tosses him into the security wall! Referee Matt Hansen charges at the group, demanding they enter the ring, but his cries fall upon deaf ears as the top two tag teams in the PWA continue to slug it out.

With Jaguar momentarily incapacitated, Grieco turns his attention to Dawkins to assist Tate in corralling the bigger half of their opposing team. They roll him into the ring, and Tate climbs in also, finally allowing the bell to sound as things break up outside the ring.

Troy: After that opening slugfest, we now have Maddox Tate in the ring to start against Paul Dawkins, the man we presume was taken out by Texas Justice as last month’s Symphony of Destruction.

Buckingham: Even if he was, it’s hard to gain revenge on the mat.

Tate stomps away on Dawkins as the former International and Tag Team Champion struggles to get to a vertical base. He reaches his knees but is blasted with a big right hand that puts him back down. Tate then mocks the crowd for a bit before grabbing Dawkins off the mat. He hooks him up for a vertical suplex, and then nails it with precision before attempting a cover for a short two count.

After the near-fall he tags in Grieco. The Staten Island Strongman rumbles into the ring looking to do damage, but only does it to his nose, as Dawkins trips him with a drop toehold. Grieco rushes to get up quickly, but is planted down with a Scud Missile to the back of the head by the athletic Dawkins! Dawkins also makes a quick pin attempt that Grieco escapes at two, prompting a tag to Renegade.

Renegade sends Grieco into the ropes with an Irish whip, looking for a clothesline, but Grieco blocks it on the return and scores with a belly-to-belly suplex. Looking for a breather, he then tags Pitbull
into the match.

Buckingham: Here comes Pitbull, and this guy is just that, Troy. A pitbull. Look at how tenacious he is!

Troy: He is, just as both members of Texas Justice are. They’re extremely aggressive individuals.


The bald-headed Texan enters the ring and rakes the eyes of Renegade before driving him into a neutral corner, where he connects with five hard shoulder thrusts to the gut. Renegade gasps for air as the official demands a break from the corner action. Pitbull backs off a bit before charging again, but Renegade swiftly slips through the ropes and drops back, connecting with both boots to the cranium, knocking Pitbull down to the mat!

Renegade rolls back into the ring and both dazed competitors look for tags. Pitbull is able to bring Grieco back in, but before Grieco can reach him, Renegade does the same to Dawkins!

Troy: Hot tag to Dawkins! He's going to be looking to clean house here!

Grieco enters the ring and is immediately floored with a clothesline. Dawkins continues his momentum and drills Tate on the apron with a forearm that drops him to the arena floor, although he is able to remain standing. Pitbull creeps up behind Dawkins to attempt a punch but it’s ducked, and the moment he turns around, Pitbull is driven to the same arena floor by a Renegade clothesline!

Renegade drops to the floor, looking to press the advantage and gain some revenge on the champions outside the ring, as Grieco stalks Dawkins from behind to connect with a clubbing blow to the back. He then grabs the Philadelphia native by the arm and slings him to the ropes. Jaguar slaps Dawkins in the back for a blind tag, and Dawkins ducks under a Grieco clothesline on the return and instead of hitting the ropes, he vaults over them completely, taking out both members of Texas Justice with a plancha to the floor!

Troy: My goodness! What a jump by Dawkins!

Buckingham: Are you serious?! He looked like a freaking condor flying out of the ring!

Troy: They have turned the intensity up on Texas Justice! That team wants the gold back around their waists next week, Randall!


As Grieco looks on at the action outside the ring, Jaguar quietly creeps up behind him. Grieco spins around and tries a punch, but he is quickly scooped up and slammed to the mat, head and neck first, accordion style, as Jaguar connects with a vicious Carrjack in the middle of the ring! Grieco's legs are still in the air like a dead bug, and Dee Licious can only look on as Jag stacks him up for one, two, and three!

Troy: That's it! Grieco took his eye off the ball and Jaguar wins it for his team with the Carrjack!

Buckingham: Unfortunately, the result is the same as it was last August for Grieco, but what a fight this was, Troy! Next week's match may have actually gotten interesting after this one, though I still wouldn’t count on seeing new champions.

WINNERS VIA PINFALL AT 9:14 – JAGUAR, PAUL DAWKINS & RENEGADE

As "My Avenue" replays, both teams continue to rumble outside the ring. Jaguar notices and slides out to grab a chair from ringside. Looking to exact revenge in his own right, Tate and Pitbull break away from Dawkins and Renegade before their partner can do real damage with the weapon. As Texas Justice retreats, Dawkins and Renegade motion that the tag titles will be theirs for the third time next week.

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

We are taken to ringside where our ring announcer Lee Palmer is standing by.

Palmer: Ladies and gentlemen, courtesy of Saif al Abbad, it is now time for our very special intermission!

Buckingham: I hope this makes up for his crappy entrance earlier tonight.

Troy: Crappy?! Honestly, why do I even try to understand you?

Buckingham: You never will, Troy. You never will.

With the announcement, the orchestra located at the side of the stage starts playing a fast-paced Arabic tune as Saif al Abbad emerges from behind the curtains riding a camel! As Saif makes his way down the ramp, he is flanked on both sides by a bevy of beautiful Arab women. The women are dressed in colorful beaded bras and brightly colored skirts, with scarves laden with gold coins hanging around their trim waistlines. Atop his camel, Saif carries a large velvet sack, from which he is flinging pure gold coins into the crowd.

Buckingham: Oh boy! He must have heard me earlier! Saif! Saif! I want gold! I want GOLD!

Troy: Oh brother…

Saif al Abbad rides the camel to ringside, at which point he dismounts and an attendant brings the camel backstage. Saif begins personally handing out gold coins to each one of the Afghani children seated in the front rows. Their faces are beaming with happiness and excitement. Saif circles his way around the entire ring, stopping in front of the announce table to hand both Troy and Buckingham some gold coins before carefully making his way up the steps and into the ring, microphone in tow.

Saif: Ladies and gentlemen, I am most pleased to offer you as part of the intermission this evening, a tantalizing and seductive performance from the world renowned Turkish Belly Dance Troupe!

The scantily clad exotic young women enter the ring and form two circles in the ring, a small inner circle of about five women and a larger outer circle of 10 women. As the orchestra changes tunes, strong drum beats begin to play and all the women shake their hips in unison to the rhythm, their waists jingling from the gold coins.

Troy: Well, this truly is a treat! We have Saif al Abbad joining us at the announce table, no doubt to enjoy the fine performance he has set up for us!

Buckingham: I take back what I said earlier about Saif! He truly is the MOST generous man I have EVER met! SO. FREAKING. GENEROUS!

Saif: Well thank you Victor, and thank you, Randall. I am so pleased that you are both here in my home country to share some of my culture and partake in the festivities.

Buckingham: Well Saif, I have to say, when it comes to entertainment, you know exactly how to hook a man like myself. First you throw money at me and then you have beautiful half-naked women parading around in front of me. I mean, usually I’m throwing money at them so it’s a nice change of pace.

Saif: Mr. Buckingham, do not compare these women to the strippers that you associate with in the States. The art of the belly dance is a distinguished form of entertainment that dates back many centuries.

Buckingham: Of course, Saif. Of course. Whatever you say.

Saif: Do not make me regret giving you the gold coin.

Buckingham: NO REFUNDS!

Suddenly, the belly dancers are interrupted by Dexter P. Wellington marching down to the ring and entering the squared circle. He appears infuriated as he rips a microphone away from Lee Palmer and begins screaming for the music to stop. It does just that, and the belly dancers disperse. Saif puts down his headset and stands up from his seat.

Wellington:  You know, Saif, I had real high hopes for you when you came to the PWA. I thought finally there would be a man in the company who I could relate to. A man that had the same taste for the finer things in life. A man who knew he deserved every drop of that fortune that he had coming to him. But I have to say, you have been nothing but a disappointment to me since the day you arrived. You know what you do to all the rich people in the world, Saif? You make us look bad. You know why? Because you get your satisfaction from giving away all your money to those less fortunate than you. You think it makes you look like a good, generous guy if you give away your money, but you know what you’ll become? A weak pushover that everyone is going to take advantage of. Have you ever heard the phrase “give someone an inch, and they’ll take a mile?” Well that’s what’s going to happen, Saif. People are selfish and undeserving and they are going to walk all over you. And when you are left with nothing, then I’ll say “I told you so.”

But why wait for that day to come? I’m so sick of your antics and tonight’s display has been the straw that broke the camel’s back… pun intended. I would relish nothing more than to beat your ass into the ground, especially here in your precious Dubai, so that I can make more of an embarrassment out of you than you’ve already made of yourself. And once I’ve finished, I’ll turn my attention where it belongs: on capturing the Progressive Championship.

Before Saif has a chance to respond, “Reason to Hate Me” by Krayzie Bone hits the speakers and PWA creative director Justin Schenck emerges from behind the curtain.

Schenck: So basically what you’re saying, Dex, is that you want to face Saif al Abbad in a number one contender’s match for the next shot at the Progressive title? Would everyone like to see that match tonight?

The Dubai crowd cheers enthusiastically at the prospect of this.

Schenck (smirking): Well, I’m not gonna give you that match.

The fans boo.

Schenck: What I AM going to give you, however, is a Progressive Championship match featuring the current champion Matthew Magellan against our new number one contender… SAIF AL ABBAD!

The Dubai crowd becomes unglued and is cheering wildly for their countryman!

Wellington: What?! Are you kidding me?! How could he possibly be the number one contender?!

Schenck: Well Dex, if my memory serves me correctly, and I know that it does, Saif pinned you during the six-man tag match at the Symphony of Destruction, so as far as I can tell, that puts him ahead of you in the rankings and means that he is deserving of the title shot, not you!

Wellington furiously storms out of the ring and back up the ramp to the backstage area as the crowd laughs and taunts him the entire way. Saif then enters the ring with a smile from ear to ear, the Dubai crowd cheering wildly as the orchestra fires up another round of “Aksem.”

Troy: Well we’ve just heard a major announcement from our creative director. Tonight, we will see Matthew Magellan defend the Progressive Championship against Saif al Abbad in his hometown of Dubai! But, will there be a triple threat match for the PWA Championship? We’ll find out as The Rebirth rolls on! Stay with us!

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

We return from break backstage, where reporter Traci Reed is standing with the PWA creative director, Justin Schenck.

Traci: Mr. Schenck, moments ago, you signed a Progressive Championship match for later this evening, with Matthew Magellan defending the gold against Saif al Abbad. With that said, are we to now assume that the other title defense you had scheduled -- the triple threat match between Vulture, Showtime Damon Savage, and Dan Crowley for the PWA World Heavyweight Championship in a triple threat match -- will not be taking place? Are Showtime and Crowley even in the building for that matter, given the brutal beating they suffered just 24 hours ago at the hands of SIN? Speculation has been running rampant throughout the locker room all night. Can you provide answers?

Schenck: Well Traci, I can’t say with certitude that Showtime and Crowley are or are not here tonight in this building. Either way, Vulture has been scheduled for a title defense tonight, and it is his obligation to be out at ringside following the Progressive title defense match for our closing segment. Now, if Vulture assumes that his opponents are not in the building and decides NOT to show his face at ringside, he will be in breach of contract.  So, Vulture, I would think long and hard before playing any games tonight, because if you do, you will be stripped of your title on the spot.  That will be all, Traci.

Schenck turns and walks away from the backstage reporter, straightening his tie as we head to commercial break.

***

Back from break, “Welcome Home” by Coheed and Cambria hits the speakers and the Dubai crowd cheers the arrival of the Human Highlight Jon Dulberg, who heads to the ring alone, without the presence of his manager Kerry Cox.

Troy: Alright folks, we have an interesting match for you right here, and you’ll notice I’m sure that Jon Dulberg is on his way out here alone.

Buckingham: From what we’ve been told, Kerry Cox suffered an injury at the hands of GI Jew last week when Jew Gored him completely out of the blue during the battle royal.

Troy: We’re told Cox is doing alright and should be back in Dulberg’s corner next week, however.

Buckingham: He had it coming, Troy.

Troy: Are you kidding me?! How could Cox have possibly had that coming?! He was standing at ringside, minding his own business!

Buckingham: He shouldn’t have even been at ringside. He should just go away. No one wants to see him anymore. GI Jew’s actions spoke for all of us.

Troy: You’re out of your mind.

As Dulberg settles himself in the ring, “The Miracle” by Queen hits the speakers and the fans begin booing as the arena goes dark. A spotlight then shines on The Miracle Mike Troha, who emerges alongside his manager The Standard Sleaze Don Cerrone. Decked all in white, Troha walks through white smoke, taking an obnoxiously long time to reach the ring.

Troy: You know, Mike Troha was always one of the most egotistical wrestlers on the PWA roster when he was here the first time around, but it looks like that ego of his has grown by leaps and bounds in his absence.

Buckingham: I would assume that’s the positive influence of Don Cerrone at work.

Troy: Right. Positive.

Finally, Troha enters the ring and, when he sees that Dulberg is raring to go, The Miracle stalls for as long as possible to move to the center of the ring to get the match started. Ultimately, Dulberg can take no more and begins the match with a slap to Troha’s face!

Troy: Now that’s the way to start a match!

Buckingham: What a cheap shot!


THE MIRACLE MIKE TROHA VS. JON DULBERG
Referee: Tom Stevens

Dulberg pours on the pressure in the early stages of the match, keeping Troha off balance with a series of hard lefts and rights, making it difficult for him to get his bearings. However, when Don Cerrone grabs onto Dulberg’s foot, the Human Highlight decides to shift his focus to The Standard Sleaze.

Dulberg exits the ring after Cerrone, chasing him all around the squared circle! Finally, Cerrone slides into the ring and Dulberg slides in after him, only to be nearly decapitated by a vicious clothesline from The Miracle. Cerrone then re-takes his place on the outside, rooting on his charge.

Troy: Randall, if there’s anyone I can’t stand more than I can’t stand you, it’s Don Cerrone. And believe me, that’s saying a lot.

Buckingham: That’s interesting, because I consider Don Cerrone the greatest man I’ve ever met, next to myself of course.

Troy: Of course you do.

The Miracle now takes complete control of the contest, stomping away on Dulberg viciously before locking on a single-leg Boston Crab and wrenching back on it forcefully. Dulberg does everything in his power to reach the ropes, and ultimately, he is able to do so. Troha runs the referee’s count to four before breaking the hold and then follows that up by overwhelming Troha with a series of repeated elbow drops.

Dulberg is slow to his feet, but Troha whips him into the corner and follows him in with a thunderous clothesline. Dulberg staggers out of the corner and Troha downs him with a hard back suplex. Then, Troha gets down on his knees and looks to the heavens before signaling that the end is near.

Troy: Oh God. Can this man be any more pretentious?

Buckingham: Sure. He could be you.

Troha grabs Dulberg’s arms as he rises, looking for the Suburban Slam, but Dulberg is able to reverse out of it and attempt the Walk-Off, only for Troha to block it. The Miracle then attempts a clothesline, but Dulberg ducks under it and nails him with the Tiebreaker!

With Troha down, Dulberg signals for the Walk-Off and moves into position. However, before he can attempt it, Don Cerrone jumps onto the apron and begins shouting at Dulberg, raising the Human Highlight’s ire. This distraction proves to be all Troha needs, as he shakes off the cobwebs, gets to his feet, spins Dulberg around, and drills him with Divine Intervention, his emerald fusion finisher! Troha covers… one, two, three.

Troy: Dammit! That damn Cerrone!

Buckingham: What an effective manager! And what a win for Mike Troha!

Troy: If Kerry Cox were here, that wouldn’t have happened!

Buckingham: If Kerry Cox were here, there’d be an awful smell of Bengay in the locker room that would linger all day. Trust me. We’re better off this way.

Troy: You’re an ass.
WINNER VIA PINFALL AT 4:06 – THE MIRACLE MIKE TROHA

The fans boo loudly as “The Miracle” replays and Troha is announced the winner, but the boos only increase in volume when Troha decides he’s not yet finished with Dulberg. As Cerrone shouts words of encouragement, The Miracle slaps on the Mental Miracle, his signature head vice. Troha squeezes on Dulberg, trying to crush his skull, and Cerrone even gets a few shots in for good measure. However, before things can spiral out of control, the Modern-Day Samurai Scythe rushes down the aisle to a huge ovation, making a beeline for Troha and Cerrone!

Troy: It’s Scythe! Scythe is gonna get his hands on Troha and Cerrone!

Buckingham: Not if they can outrun him!


Cerrone spots Scythe first, prompting Troha to release the hold and both men to escape through the crowd. By the time Scythe hits the ring, both The Miracle and The Standard Sleaze are long gone, running through the stands to make their escape. Scythe then helps Dulberg to his feet and checks on him as “With You” by Linkin Park blares over the speakers and we head to commercial.

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --

Back from break, we are taken backstage, where we see reporter Scott Cornelius rushing past crew members to catch up to former PWA World Heavyweight Champion Anthony Failla.

Cornelius: Mr. Failla, ever since last week, word around the locker room is that many of your peers are excited that you have seemingly joined the fight against SIN. What are your thoughts on this?

Failla stops dead in his tracks, turns around, and threateningly stares Cornelius down.

Failla: Let’s get something straight here. I’m not joining ANYTHING. To be perfectly honest, I don’t give a damn about anyone else that’s battling SIN, and that includes Justin Schenck. And I’m not against SIN because of what they stand for, or any other moral crap like that. They have made an enemy of me for one reason and one reason only, and that’s because they made the mistake of targeting me at the Symphony of Destruction. I KNOW that I would have lasted the rest of the match and gone on to win the SOD if they didn’t put a target on my back. Now, I’ve put targets on all of theirs.

So stop spreading these ridiculous rumors that I’ve chosen sides and joined the charge against SIN. The only side I’m on is my own. And with help or without it, I’m going to finish what SIN started.

The interview is then interrupted by the arrival of SIN member Markus Krieg, who walks over and stares down at the slightly smaller Failla, an awesome sight considering the imposing stature of both men. Krieg rips the microphone out of Cornelius’ hand.

Krieg: Failla, the only thing that is going to be finished... is YOU!

Suddenly, Anthony Failla is attacked from behind by Chris Duval and John Wolfe! Failla is momentarily stunned but gets back up, peppering Duval and Wolfe with lefts and rights to fend them off. The three men continue to slug it out in the backstage area until Chase Stone and Mike Griffin come running down the hallway from opposite directions to help even the odds. Griffin tackles Duval to the mat and wails away on him while Wolfe slugs it out with Stone, allowing Failla to trade furious blows with Krieg!  Eventually, officials come running to the chaotic scene and attempt to pry all the men off of each other as the camera fades.

***

Back from break, “Minas de Cobre” by Calexico hits the speakers and Juan Pablo Alvarez enters from the back, the fans booing his arrival.

Walking down the ramp, Alvarez notices a young fan who is holding a homemade sign adorned with a dragon and a rising sun for Asai Moon. The mere sight of the sign seems to enrage JPA and he snatches it from the fan, tears it up, and throws the pieces in the air behind him!

Next up, “Betrayal” by Lita Ford hits the arena as Fenix Clarke enters with Emily Walker, his manager, at his side.

Troy: In a match where three of the four competitors are VERY well-versed with each other’s styles and abilities, we have the mysterious newcomer Fenix Clarke, Randall, a man who should certainly prove to be the x-factor here. This will be his first televised match here in the PWA that involves less than 20 other competitors. Nonetheless, I’m sure Paul Epton will be anxious to get his hands on him.

Buckingham:  Well, I would be too if I were Epton. Clarke DID cost him the Progressive Championship. But Epton can't be hasty either, Troy. I’ve gotten some reports from our live events the last couple of weeks, and from what I’ve heard, Clarke has proven himself to be quite innovative and fearless in the ring.

The fans boo the duo, but Fenix ignores them as he points to the sky, while Walker motions to Clarke as if he were on display.

Buckingham: What a contrast between these two, Troy.  Fenix Clarke enters the arena and is practically stoic, a quiet intensity emanating from him. But right next to him, Emily Walker is fully animated, talking to the crowd and promoting her “pet project.”

Troy: It really seems like Emily has Clarke tightly wrapped around her finger. I mean, the man didn't even introduce himself when confronted by Scott Cornelius earlier in the season. It's certainly an interesting relationship.

Clarke enters the ring and quietly acknowledges Alvarez, who is stewing in the corner, clearly ready for the challenge ahead. Emily stays on the ring apron, her arms draped suggestively around Clarke.

Just then, the capacity crowd erupts as “Merciless Cult” by Dir en Grey hits and Asai Moon excitedly emerges from behind the curtain! The young cruiserweight ceremoniously bows to the capacity crowd and whips up into a backflip, eliciting cheers from the fans!

Moon walks down the ramp and sees the pieces of the young fan’s sign on the floor, looks to JPA in the ring, and then looks for the fan whose sign Alvarez destroyed. Finding him, he bows to the fan, takes off the elbow pad that Moon uses for his signature elbow drop, and hands it to him!

Troy: A noble gesture by Moon! I'm glad he saw fit to brighten that kid’s day.

Buckingham: Whatever. He'll probably sell it on eBay, the little twerp.

Troy shakes his head, and Asai Moon waits at the foot of the ring, as “Map of the Problematique” by Muse hits the speakers and the crowd erupts once more for Paul Epton!

Buckingham:  Asai Moon and Juan Pablo Alvarez may have quite a bit of animosity towards each other, but at least we understand their beef. But the issue here between Paul Epton, Fenix Clarke, and Emily Walker… your guess is as good as mine.

Troy: I'd go as far to say that Epton looks clearly uncomfortable coming out here. What is going through his head right now?

Epton meets with Moon at the foot of the ring while, inside, Emily Walker can be seen running her hands across Clarke's chest, a devilish smile on her face, as the trio awaits the entrance of their opponents. Epton, who has barely taken his eyes off the couple in the ring the whole time, simply slaps Moon in the back and takes his place on the apron.

Emily tugs at Clarke as she drops down to ringside, and Fenix takes his position on the ring apron, electing Alvarez to start the match with his rival. With each wrestler in their respective positions, referee Matt Hansen calls for the bell and the match gets underway.

PAUL EPTON & ASAI MOON VS. JUAN PABLO ALVAREZ & FENIX CLARKE
Referee: Matt Hansen
Moon is understandably cautious as he approaches JPA, but his opponent closes the gap fast, and the two end up grappling for control. Moon wins the contest with an elbow to Alvarez's gut and follows up with a quick drop toehold. Moon then turns and bounces off the ropes, but on his return, JPA pops up and rolls Moon up for a quick pin attempt. Asai kicks out at one, however, and reverses to his own pin, which Alvarez kicks out of and both men stand up.

Asai kicks Alvarez in the gut and Irish whips him into the ropes. Moon dives through JPA's legs on the rebound, but Alvarez bounces off the ropes again and leapfrogs Moon. JPA then hits the ropes again, but holds onto them and tags in Fenix Clarke. Moon however is expecting JPA to return and drops to the ground again, only to get up and meet the business end of a Clarke springboard dropkick!

Buckingham: A huge mistake by Asai Moon. You need to keep your head up in a tag match!

Fenix stays in firm control of the bout, stomping on the legs of the Japanese sensation, following it up with a leg DDT for good measure. The whole time, Fenix barely takes his eyes off of Epton, who is now dying to get in the ring, leaning over the ropes and pushing for Moon to make a tag.

Troy: Clarke is trying to ground his opponent here. Asai really needs to make a tag if he wants to keep this match alive!

Clarke decides to put some pressure on the upper body of Moon next, wrenching on the neck of the superstar in a camel clutch, smirking at and taunting Epton for good measure.

Buckingham: This is it!  Moon needs to find a way to get to his corner or this match is over!

Pushing on all his reserves, Moon manages to get to his hands and knees with Clarke on top of him and starts crawling to his corner! Clarke wrenches back even further on the neck, but the shift in weight allows Moon to get to his feet and fall backwards, smashing Clarke into the mat and releasing the hold! Moon then dives to his corner and tags in Epton, much to the delight of the capacity crowd!

Epton rushes over to Clarke and shoulder-charges him to the mat before he can regain his footing. He then turns his attention to Alvarez on the ring apron, rushing over and knocking him off, launching Alvarez into the barricade!

Epton keeps the pressure mounted, delivering an Irish whip to Clarke and downing him with an arm drag on the return! Alvarez is finally starting to recover and attempts to get back up on the ring apron, but Epton spots this and Irish whips Clarke into the ropes again, knocking Alvarez to the ground once more! Epton then shouts to the crowd, which roars back in approval.

Troy: Paul Epton is in complete control! This match could soon be history!

Epton quickly runs at a rising Fenix Clarke attempting and hitting his corkscrew neckbreaker… but the completion of the move has taken Epton right to his opponents' corner, where he is met with the speedy and resilient Alvarez returning to his position. Alvarez downs Epton with a forearm shot to the head, but this injustice prompts Asai Moon to charge into the ring and dropkick JPA off the apron! Then, after seeking and receiving the approval of the crowd, Moon gets a running start and leaps over the top rope, nailing Alvarez on the outside with a corkscrew plancha!

Troy: Unbelievable!

Now on his feet, Epton sees Clarke starting to stir, so he keeps him grounded with a standing moonsault before pulling him into position and scaling the ropes for his shooting star press finisher! Seeing this, Emily runs over to the corner where Epton is perched and grabs onto his leg, preventing the former Progressive Champion from performing the move!

Troy: What is she doing?! Get her out of here, ref!

Buckingham: It looks like she's pleading with Epton to stop! What a great manager, trying to prevent her superstar from being harmed!

Troy: Oh come on! This is simply a distraction and you know it!

Emily continues her plea as Epton tries to shake her off without losing his balance. Suddenly, however, Emily lets go of Epton's leg and smiles a devilishly. Confused, Epton turns his head back around, but instead of seeing Clarke's body on the mat, he is met by Clarke's boot, as his opponent delivers a standing side kick that stuns Epton on the top rope.

Troy: I knew it! Walker is going to cost Epton another match!  He had this one in the bag!

Buckingham: Fenix Clarke is never alone as long as Emily Walker is ringside!

Wasting no time, Clarke hops up the turnbuckle, grabs Epton, and jumps backwards, driving Epton's face right across his knees, exactly as he did when he cost Epton the Progressive Championship!

Buckingham: That's the Black Tear Fall, Troy, and that's the second time he's hit that on Epton!

Troy: And both times, Emily Walker is the one who's made landing that move possible!

Buckingham: Stop boring us with your details, Troy!

With both Asai Moon and Juan Pablo Alvarez still struggling to their feet on the outside, Clarke covers Epton and Matt Hansen counts… one, two, three. Hansen calls for the bell and Emily Walker slides into the ring to celebrate the victory with her charge, the crowd showering them with boos as Emily raises Clarke's hand. Before the two leave, Emily motions for Clarke to lift up Epton. When he does so, Emily fiercely slaps Epton across the face, and Clarke drops the superstar to the ground once more. Emily then grabs Clarke by the arm, kisses him on the cheek, and leads him to the back, leaving the three other competitors to recover.
WINNERS VIA PINFALL AT 10:43 – JUAN PABLO ALVAREZ & FENIX CLARKE

-- COMMERCIAL BREAK --


Back from break, the cameras catch Solomon powering down a backstage hallway, a sneer practically glued onto his face. A backstage assistant approaches and the sneer grows larger.

Assistant: Excuse me, Mr. Solomon. May I have a minute? I was just wondering if—

Before the assistant can speak even another word, Solomon grabs him by the throat and heaves him right through the catering table!

Solomon: Did I say you could have that minute?! I didn’t think so!

Solomon then continues down the hallway until he comes face to face with GI Jew.  The two stare each other down for a long period of time before either makes a move. Finally, it is the Alaskan Monster who speaks.

Solomon: Is there a point to this or are you just standing in my way to disgust me with your ugly face?

Jew: I have nothing to say to you, Solomon. But now that we’re here, I might as well make it clear to you that we’re done… for now.

Solomon: Is that so? You know, I don’t think I got that memo.

Jew: Well, you’re getting it now. While you waste your time playing Wile E. Coyote to Evan Black’s Road Runner, I’m going to occupy myself with something more worthwhile. My time is more valuable than to play third wheel in a feud between two jackasses.

Solomon: Well good for you.

Jew: But don’t think for a second we’re done for good. Someday, when you least expect it, we’re going to finish this. So I’d always be looking my shoulder if I were you.

Solomon: Thanks for the advice. I’ll be on the edge of my seat, waiting with baited breath for the thrilling conclusion to a feud in which I’ve won every single encounter.

Jew: Make jokes. But I promise you, someday, you won’t be laughing anymore.

The two then continue to stare each other down before slowly backpedaling away from each other in opposite directions. However, when Solomon turns around, he is greeted by an Evan Black superkick out of absolutely nowhere! Solomon crumbles to the ground and a pumped-up Black begins shouting at the fallen Alaskan Monster.

Black: You want to go to war with me?! GI Jew may be done with you, but I’m JUST getting started! I’m not afraid of you, Solomon! I’ve been battling bullies like you my whole life, you DON’T scare me! If you want to end this crap and face me like a man, you know where to find me!

With that, Black gets up and walks off, leaving Solomon down on the ground.

***

Back at ringside, “Aksem” by Ahlam hits the speakers and the fans begin cheering thunderously as hometown hero Saif al Abbad begins making his way to the ring!

Troy: Alright, here we go! This Dubai crowd is pumped up for the opportunity their countryman has right here, right now!

Buckingham: I do believe this is Saif’s first shot at the Progressive Championship, and I’m sure these people would LOVE to see him get the job done here.

Troy: I think that’s a tremendous understatement!

Saif enters the ring and stretches out on the ropes, aware of the huge opportunity he has before him. Then, moments later, “The Final Countdown” by the London Symphony Orchestra hits and the fans begin booing as the PWA Progressive Champion Matthew Magellan makes his way to the ring, accompanied by manager Jade and bodyguard Briggs. Magellan is in rare form as he heads down the aisle, mocking Saif’s signature pose, which raises the ire both of Saif and the Dubai crowd.

Finally, Magellan enters the ring and stands across from Saif, handing the championship belt to referee Jose Soares, who holds it high as the bell sounds.

PWA PROGRESSIVE CHAMPIONSHIP:
MATTHEW MAGELLAN (champion) VS. SAIF AL ABBAD (challenger)
Referee: Jose Soares

Magellan and Saif stand toe-to-toe in the center of the ring and, while Saif is all business, Magellan continues his mockery of the challenger, concluding by cracking Saif in the jaw with a thunderous slap! This finally puts Saif over the edge, as he tackles Magellan to the mat and begins wailing away on him ferociously to a roar from the Dubai crowd!

Magellan is quick to scramble to the ropes, grabbing onto them and forcing Soares to pry Saif off him. However, as soon as Magellan is back to his feet and Soares clears the path, Saif charges and tackles Magellan to the mat again, prompting another wave of cheers from the challenger's countrymen!

Troy: Saif is on fire and these people are loving it!

Buckingham: They’d better get their cheers in now and prepare for disappointment later, because no matter what’s happening right now, Magellan is NOT losing this title tonight!

Troy: And you’re positive of that?

Buckingham: How could I not be?!

The referee separates the two again, and this time Magellan moves to the center of the ring and challenges Saif to a test of strength. With all of Dubai cheering him on, Saif engages Magellan in the center of the ring, but before any clear-cut advantage can be determined, the unthinkable happens.

On the outside of the ring, Jade and Briggs suddenly collapse to the ground. When they do, it becomes apparent that they were clubbed down from behind by Alexis Duval and John Wolfe, respectively. Seconds later, the ring is flooded by SIN members Greg Tantalus, Markus Krieg, and Chris Duval, who attack both Magellan and Saif and commence stomping them brutally.

Troy: No! Not now!

Buckingham: Saif should be thanking them, Troy! SIN just spared him the embarrassment of being beaten in front of his hometown crowd!

The Dubai crowd is livid as the SIN assault continues, leaving the referee no choice but to ring the bell and throw this match out.
WINNER AT 2:28 – NO CONTEST; STILL PROGRESSIVE CHAMPION – MATTHEW MAGELLAN

***

Then, with all four individuals sufficiently beaten and battered, Alexis grabs a microphone.

Alexis: Ladies and gentlemen, please give a warm Dubai welcome to the PWA World Heavyweight Champion… my father and your hero… Vulture!

With that, “Falling From the Sky” by VAST hits and the fans boo mercilessly as Vulture makes his way to the ring, dressed to compete, the championship belt secured proudly around his waist. As Saif, Magellan, Briggs, and Jade are helped to the back, Vulture enters the ring and grabs the microphone. The boos are deafening as the champion begins to speak, his SIN cohorts flanking him on either side.

Vulture: Well, before I get started, let me first offer my sincere apologies to the people of Dubai. I know how badly you were pulling for Saif to walk out of here the Progressive Champion, but unfortunately, that’s not going to happen tonight. And it’s nothing personal. I’d like Saif, Magellan, Briggs, and Jade to all know that. But you all heard what Justin Schenck had to say earlier tonight, and given how hell-bent he is on getting this championship away from us, I wasn’t taking any chances. If you glance at the time, you can see we’re going off the air in just a few minutes. Justin Schenck made a point of saying to me that if I didn’t report to the ring before the end of the night for this phantom championship match I was supposedly going to have, then I would be stripped of the world title. Well, Schenck, I’m standing here, in the ring, ready to defend my title. As you can see, I’ve got my gear on, and I’m ready to go. So why don’t you come out here and declare me the winner of my championship match via forfeit? We both know that Showtime and Crowley aren’t here. And while you’re at it, I think you owe Saif al Abbad an apology, the same way you owe all these people an apology, because your asinine ruling forced us to do what we just did. You literally left us no other choice. So why don’t you quit wasting the precious few minutes we have left and—

Before Vulture can finish, “Reason to Hate Me” by Krayzie Bone hits and PWA creative director Justin Schenck appears from behind the curtain, microphone in tow and a full security detail at his side.

Vulture: Oh come on! Security?! Are you really that pathetic?

Schenck: I’ve heard just about enough out of you.

Vulture: I don’t really care, Schenck. Just declare me the damn winner by forfeit and let’s go home.

Schenck: You really think I wanted you out here just for a forfeit? I promised everyone that there would be a world championship match tonight and I don’t intend on going back on my promises.

Vulture scoffs at Schenck and rolls his eyes before answering.

Vulture: Ok, whatever Schenck. I’ll bite.

Vulture lays the championship belt down in the ring and outstretches his arms, daring Schenck to produce Dan Crowley and Showtime Damon Savage.

Schenck: Well, first thing’s first, all members of SIN are banned from ringside. So all of you, out of the ring and to the back within the next 60 seconds, or Vulture is stripped of the world championship!

Vulture: You can’t do that!

Schenck: You wanna try me?! I dare you! Defy me and see what happens!

Through gritted teeth, Vulture gives the signal for the remaining members of SIN to exit the ring. Tantalus leads them out and to the back as the fans cheer loudly. Schenck smirks at Tantalus and mockingly waves goodbye to him. Tantalus responds by staring a hole through him as he, Krieg, the Duvals, and Wolfe exit, paying special attention to the security detail that looms behind the creative director.

Vulture: You make me laugh, Schenck, you really do! We go off the air in less than three minutes! You really mean to tell me that we’re going to have a championship match in three minutes?! And if we were, why would you have overbooked the show so that we had to destroy your Progressive title match just to come down here and do this at all? You’ve got nothing, Schenck!

Schenck: Oh, I’ve got nothing? Listen Vulture, last week, you pulled a fast one on me. This week, I covered my ass. You see, I had a feeling you might try to weasel your way out of your title defense tonight. That’s why I went to the network myself and promised them a world championship match tonight, and they gave me clearance to name a substitute challenger in the event that something happened to Crowley and/or Showtime that rendered them unable to compete.

Vulture: What?! You can’t be serious!

Schenck: Oh but I am.

Vulture: Who?!

Schenck: I’ll let you figure it out for yourself. Because the match begins… right now!

Suddenly, the lights go out and silence reigns through the darkness for several seconds. However, moments later, the bell sounds and the lights go back on. When they do, the building explodes when they notice referee Jose Soares and, more importantly, The Iceman Jason Calysto standing in the ring!

Troy: Oh my God! Oh my God! It’s Jason Calysto!

Buckingham: Vulture hasn’t seen him yet! Turn around, Vulture!


PWA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP:
VULTURE (champion) VS. THE ICEMAN JASON CALYSTO (challenger)
Referee: Jose Soares

Slowly, Vulture turns around, and when he does, a look of absolute horror overcomes his face. However, before he even has a chance to react, Calysto yanks him down to the mat by his arm and slaps on the Crossface!

Troy: Crossface! Calysto has it locked in!

Buckingham: No! This can’t be happening!

The fans are cheering wildly as Calysto wrenches back on the hold with everything he’s got! Vulture desperately tries to stay alive in the hold, but the Crossface is locked on perfectly and the champion finds himself in a very precarious position, all alone in the center of the ring! Vulture hangs on for close to 30 seconds, but finally, after realizing he has no other recourse, he taps out!

Troy: He tapped! He tapped! We have a new champion! Jason Calysto has just won his fifth PWA Championship!

Buckingham: Are you kidding me?! I thought Calysto doesn’t even work here anymore! This is an absolute outrage! Justin Schenck screwed Vulture, Troy! He screwed him bad!

Troy: Vulture and SIN stole the championship from Showtime last week, and tonight, with an assist from Justin Schenck, Jason Calysto has just stolen it away from Vulture! Seems to me like justice has been served!

The roof blows off the DSC Indoor Arena as “F*ckin’ in the Bushes” by Oasis blares onto the speakers and The Iceman Jason Calysto is announced the new PWA World Heavyweight Champion! The camera quickly cuts to the backstage area, where SIN is being restrained by Justin Schenck’s security, each member looking more livid than the next, but none more so than co-leader Greg Tantalus.

Back at ringside, Vulture is still convalescing on the mat as Jason Calysto is handed the championship belt and holds it high, prompting pyro to blast off and confetti to fall from the rafters. Vulture then rolls out of the ring and begins slowly making his way to the backstage area. Finally, he turns around and locks eyes with Calysto, and the two engage in a long and heated staredown. Calysto then holds up the belt in Vulture’s direction, prompting an impromptu hateful scowl to form on Vulture’s face as the camera fades to black.

Troy: Ladies and gentlemen, if you thought last week’s ending was explosive, how about tonight’s?! For the second week in a row, we have a shocking new world champion, but instead of SIN doing the screwing tonight, they were the ones getting screwed!

Buckingham: And you’re happy about that?!

Troy: You’re damn right I am! Jason Calysto is the brand-new PWA Champion and somehow, all feels right with the world!

Buckingham: I think I’m gonna be sick!

Troy: Folks, we’ll see you next week in Johannesburg! And after the last two weeks, who the hell knows what’s gonna happen then?! Goodnight, everybody!

WINNER VIA SUBMISSION AT 0:31 AND NEW PWA CHAMPION – THE ICEMAN JASON CALYSTO


-- END SHOW --



Pre-Show Dark Matches:
1. Saif al Abbad def. Darrin Giles via pinfall at 4:38 with the Dubai Dazzler. (Referee: Jose Soares)
2. Alexis Duval def. Jade via pinfall at 4:12 with a flip piledriver. (Referee: Dan Martin)
3. Evan Black def. Dexter P. Wellington via pinfall at 6:06 with the superkick. (Referee: Tom Stevens)